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THE  UNIVERSITY 
OF  ILLINOIS 
9,  LIBRARY 

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THE 

NATIONAL-  DISPENSATORY. 

CONTAINING  THE 


NATURAL  HISTORY,  CHEMISTRY,  PHARMACY, 
ACTIONS,  AND  USES  OF  MEDICINES. 


THE 


^CONTAINING  THE 


NATURAL  HISTORY,  CHEMISTRY,  PHARMACY, 
ACTIONS,  AND  USES  OF  MEDICINES. 


INCLUDING  THOSE  RECOGNIZED  IN  THE 

PHARMACOPOEIAS  OF  THE  UNITED  STATES,  GREAT  BRITAIN, 
AND  GERMANY,  WITH  NUMEROUS  REFERENCES 
TO  THE  FRENCH  CODEX.  , 

BY 

ALFRED  STILLE,  M.D.,  LL.D., 

PROFESSOR  EMERITUS  OF  THE  THEORY  AND  PRACTICE  OF  MEDICINE  AND  OF  CLINICAL 
MEDICINE  IN  THE  UNIVERSITY  OF  PENNSYLVANIA, 

JOHN  M.  ^MAISCH,  Phae.  D„ 

LATE  PROFESSOR  OF  MATERIA  MEDICA  AND  BOTANY  IN  THE  PHILADELPHIA  COLLEGE  OF  PHARMACY, 

CHARLES  CASPARI,  Je.,  Ph.G., 

PROFESSOR  OF  THEORETICAL  AND  PRACTICAL  PHARMACY  IN  THE  MARYLAND  COLLEGE  OF  PHARMACY, 

AND 

HENRY  C.  C.  MAISCH,  Ph.G.,  Ph.D. 

FIFTH  EDITION, 

ENLARGED  AND  REVISED  IN  ACCORDANCE  WITH  THE  SEVENTH  DECENNIAL  REVISION  Of' 
THE  UNITED  STATES  PHARMA  COPCEI A. 

WITH  THREE  HUNDRED  AND  TWENTY  ILLUSTRATIONS. 


PHILADELPHIA: 

LEA  BROTHERS  & CO. 

1894. 


Entered  according  to  Act  of  Congress,  in  the  year  1894,  by 
LEA  BROTHERS  & CO., 

in  the  Office  of  the  Librarian  of  Congress.  All  rights  reserved. 


Authority  to  use  for  comment  the  Pharmacopoeia  of  the  United  States  of  America 
(1890)  Seventh  Decennial  Revision,  has  been  granted  to  The  National  Dispensatory 
by  the  Committee  of  Revision  and  Publication. 


Westcott  & Thomson, 
Stereotypers  and  Electrotypers , Philada. 


William  J.  Doknan, 
Printer,  Philada. 


f 


A/5YI2 


\ 


PREFACE  TO  THE  FIFTH  EDITION. 


In  presenting  the  fifth  edition  of  The  National  Dispensatory  the  survivor 
of  its  associate  authors  (and  editors)  would  be  wanting  in  duty,  as  well  as  in 
personal  feeling,  did  he  fail  to  record  his  impression,  however  inadequately,  of  the 
character  of  his  late  colleague,  Professor  John  Michael  Maisch,  Phar.  D.  This 
is  not  the  most  suitable  place,  nor  is  he  the  fittest  person,  to  describe  Prof.  Maisch’s 
long,  arduous,  and  fruitful  career  in  a profession  for  which  he  was  eminently  fitted 
by  the  scientific  bent  of  his  mind,  his  lifelong  habits  of  accurate  observation,  and 
the  singular  sobriety  of  his  judgment.  His  substantial  qualities  as  a man  of  science, 
and  the  esteem  in  which  he  was  held  for  his  unflagging  industry  and  his  devotion 
to  the  highest  interests  of  his  profession,  are  attested  not  only  by  the  many  posi- 
tions of  honor  and  responsibility  which  he  held,  but  also  by  the  honorary  and 
other  rewards  he  received  for  his  original  researches.  It  will  be  remembered  that  in 
August,  1893,  the  “ Hanbury  Memorial,”  a valuable  gold  medal,  was  awarded  to  him 
for  his  original  researches  in  the  natural  history  and  chemistry  of  drugs,  and  that 
it  was  the  first  time  this  honor  had  been  conferred  on  this  side  of  the  Atlantic. 

The  present  writer  is  incompetent  to  trace  the  steady  rise  of  Prof.  Maisch  to  the 
eminence  he  had  reached  when  death  cut  short  his  uncompleted  career  as  an  inves- 
tigator and  teacher  and  as  a wisely  conservative  guide  of  opinion  in  the  pharma- 
ceutical world.  As  his  associate  and  collaborator  in  producing  The  National 
Dispensatory  from  1879  until  his  death  in  1893,  his  survivor  learned  the  strength 
and  richness  of  his  learning  and  felt  the  charm  of  his  sincere  and  earnest  character. 
Few  men  have  united  as  he  did  the  personal  qualities  of  cheerfulness,  patience, 
natural  courtesy,  kindliness,  and  self-sacrifice  with  such  wide  and  accurate  know- 
ledge of  the  sciences  which  he  cultivated  and  in  which  he  had  no  superior.  * It  was 
always  a pleasure  to  confer  with  him  in  the  interests  of  the  work  to  which  he  gave 
the  ripest  and  best  of  his  knowledge  and  experience,  and  which  must  long  remain 
a monument  of  his  industry  and  skill  as  well  as  of  his  technical  knowledge  and 
critical  sagacity. 

In  regard  to  the  Action  and  Uses  of  medicines  as  set  forth  in  the  present 
edition,  it  is  proper  to  state,  so  numerous  are  the  articles,  including  natural  prod- 
ucts and  artificial  compounds,  which  of  late  years  have  been  introduced  into  the 
practice  of  medicine,  that  the  true  value  of  many  among  them  remains  undeter- 
mined. Yet  they  cannot  for  the  present  be  excluded  from  the  Dispensatory, 
whatever  may  be  the  final  determination  in  regard  to  them.  To  make  room  for 
their  due  consideration  it  has  been  found  necessary  to  omit  from  the  work  a portion 
of  the  detailed  and  illustrated  accounts  of  the  physiological  and  toxicological  actions 
of  many  medicines  which  were  amply  considered  in  previous  editions.  In  all  arti- 
cles of  real  importance,  however,  more  recent  illustrations  have  been  adduced. 

In  preparing  a work  under  the  conditions  imposed  on  the  present  one  it  is 
impossible,  even  with  scrupulous  vigilance,  to  prevent  a certain  commingling  of 
fact  and  speculation,  for  the  most  cautious  reporter  cannot  always  avoid  mis- 
taking the  one  for  the  other.  The  present  writer  claims  only  to  have  striven 


V 


VI 


PREFACE  TO  THE  FIFTH  EDITION. 


assiduously  to  maintain  a separation  between  facts  and  theories,  believing  that, 
whatever  fate  may  await  the  latter,  the  former  are  in  their  nature  indestructible : 
“ Opmionum  commenta  delet  dies ; naturae  judieia  confirmat.”  The  deplorable 
results  of  following  physiological  experiment  and  chemical  com-position,  instead  of 
clinical  experience,  as  the  chief  teacher  and  guide  in  therapeutics,  have  led  to  the 
rejection  b}^  practical  physicians  of  many  medicines  which  not  long  before  were 
introduced  with  loud  acclaim.  It  follows  that  in  the  long  list  of  such  medicines 
it  becomes  difficult  at  a given  moment  to  assign  to  each  its  real  value,  and  therefore, 
in  a work  like  the  present,  to  be  sure  of  admitting  all  that  deserve  recognition  or 
of  excluding  all  that  are  worthless  or  injurious. 

It  is  desired  once  more,  and  urgently,  to  direct  the  attention  of  those  who 
consult  this  work  for  its  practical  medical  uses  to  the  Index  of  Therapeutics,  where 
under  the  name  of  each  disease  will  be  found  a list  of  all  the  medicines  employed 
in  its  treatment,  and  in  the  articles  relating  to  each  medicine  the  conditions  that 
call  for  its  employment.  This  is  the  empirical  as  contrasted  with  the  dogmatic 
method ; it  is  the  method  of  experience,  upon  which  alone  the  practical  physician 
can  securely  depend.  A.  S. 


From  a pharmaceutical  and  botanical  standpoint  a complete  revision  of  The 
National  Dispensatory  has  been  required  by  the  appearance  of  the  new  U.  S. 
Pharmacopoeia,  in  order  to  adapt  the  text  to  the  present  standard,  to  embody  the 
numerous  changes  made  therein,  and  to  embrace  as  well  all  the  new  official  drugs 
and  preparations.  The  revision,  however,  has  by  no  means  been  confined  to  this ; 
the  most  recent  issues  of  foreign  pharmacopoeias  have  been  exhaustively  consulted, 
and  all  new  material  of  value  which  they  furnished  will  be  found  incorporated. 
Many  of  the  older  articles  have  been  completely  rewritten,  and  a large  number 
of  new  ones  introduced,  descriptive  of  all  the  latest  synthetic  remedies  and  unof- 
ficial preparations  now  in  use.  The  pharmacist  will  find  a full  discussion  of 
chemical  and  pharmaceutical  processes  with  descriptions  and  explanations  of  the 
most  approved  apparatus  and  tests. 

The  pharmacopoeial  formulas  for  galenical  preparations  have  been  freely  com- 
mented upon,  and  improvements  have  been  suggested  wherever  such  appeared 
desirable.  To  accommodate  pharmacists  not  yet  supplied  with  the  metric  weights 
and  measures  now  ordered  by  the  Pharmacopoeia,  separate  formulas  in  custom- 
ary weights  and  measures  have  been  added  for*  convenient  quantities  of  all  official 
preparations.  A number  of  very  complete  tables  taken  from  the  new  U.  S.  Phar- 
macopoeia, together  with  all  the  official  reagents  and  solutions  for  both  qualitative 
and  quantitative  tests,  have  been  placed  in  the  Appendix,  and  for  the  convenience 
of  physicians  and  pharmacists  an  alphabetical  list  of  official  drugs  has  been  added, 
showing  at  a glance  the  preparations  of  the  United  States  and  British  Pharmaco- 
poeias containing  them.  Another  valuable  feature  of  the  present  volume  is  the 
introduction  of  a list  of  over  four  hundred  formulas  and  molecular  weights  of 
chemical  compounds,  which  will  prove  valuable  for  reference. 

In  its  present  form,  therefore,  those  who  have  taken  a part  in  the  revision  of  The 
National  Dispensatory  earnestly  trust  that  the  work  will  be  found  to  maintain  the 
high  position  held  by  previous  issues,  and  that  it  will  receive  the  commendation 
of  all  those  who  have  occasion  to  consult  its  pages. 

C.  C. 


January,  1894. 


PUBLISHERS’  NOTE  TO  THE  FIFTH  EDITION. 


On  the  appearance  of  The  National  Dispensatory , fifteen  years  ago,  it  was  at 
once  recognized  by  the  medical  and  pharmaceutical  professions  as  satisfying  the 
need  for  a work  affording  all  necessary  information  upon  its  comprehensive  subject 
with  authoritative  accuracy,  and  uniting  completeness  with  convenience  by  the 
exclusion  of  obsolete  matter.  So  marked  was  the  public  appreciation  of  these 
peculiar  characteristics  that  six  months  sufficed  to  exhaust  the  large  first  edition. 
Successive  revisions  at  frequent  intervals  have  maintained  each  issue  fully  abreast 
of  the  science  and  practice  of  its  time,  and  the  work  has  accordingly  been  one  to 
which  the  physician  and  pharmacist  could  always  look  with  confidence  for  com- 
plete and  trustworthy  information  in  answer  to  any  inquiry. 

With  the  rapid  advance  of  science  the  field  to  be  covered  by  such  a volume  has 
so  greatly  increased  that  prior  to  his  death  Professor  Maisch  had  confided  a large 
share  of  the  revision  to  Professor  Charles  Caspari,  Jr.,  of  the  Maryland  College 
of  Pharmacy.  The  sad  event  which  deprived  American  pharmacy  of  one  of  its 
foremost  authorities  occurred,  however,  after  Professor  Maisch  had  practically  com- 
pleted the  portion  of  the  work  which  he  had  reserved  for  himself.  Readers  of 
The  National  Dispensatory  may  be  congratulated  upon  receiving  the  benefit  of  his 
latest  and  ripest  knowledge. 

The  therapeutical  portion  of  the  volume  has  been  revised  with  equal  thorough- 
ness, and  it  will  be  found  to  contain  the  real  advances,  gleaned  from  the  vast  lite- 
rature of  its  department,  and  set  forth  with  all  the  clearness  and  critical  acumen  of 
Professor  Stille.  This  great  body  of  important  knowledge  is  arranged  not  only 
alphabetically  under  the  various  drugs,  but  it  is  also  placed  at  the  instant  com- 
mand of  those  seeking  information  in  the  treatment  of  special  diseases  by  the 
recommendations  under  the  various  Diseases  in  the  Therapeutical  Index.  The 
extent  of  the  information  contained  in  the  following  pages  is  indicated  by  the 
twenty-five  thousand  references  in  the  two  indexes  at  the  end  of  the  volume. 

In  no  previous  edition  have  the  alterations  and  additions  been  so  great.  The 
sweeping  changes  in  the  new  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia  are  included  with  official  authori- 
zation of  the  Committee  on  Revision,  and  full  use  has  been  made  of  valuable  infor- 
mation appearing  in  foreign  pharmacopoeias.  The  new  synthetic  remedies,  and  those 
drugs  which  are  largely  in  use,  though  unofficial,  are  thoroughly  considered.  Full 
explanations  are  given  of  chemical  and  pharmaceutical  processes,  with  descriptions  of 
new  apparatus  and  tests.  All  weights  and  measures  are  stated  in  both  the  ordinary 
and  metric  systems.  Many  new  tables  and  lists  have  been  inserted  for  the  purpose 
of  placing  before  the  reader  a vast  amount  of  important  knowledge  in  a form  com- 
bining compactness  with  ease  of  reference  to  the  utmost  degree.  In  short,  no  ele- 
ment of  utility  to  the  physician  or  pharmacist  has  been  overlooked,  and  it  is  there- 
fore believed  that  the  new  edition  of  The  National  Dispensatory  will  prove  more 
than  ever  valuable  to  those  for  whom  it  has  been  prepared. 

Acknowledgment  is  due  the  following  gentlemen  and  business  firms  for  their 
kindness  and  courtesy  in  loaning  cuts  for  many  of  the  new  illustrations:  Dr.  F. 
Hoffmann,  Dr.  C.  Curtman,  Whitall,  Tatum  & Co.,  J.  M.  Maris  & Co.,  Anderson 
Mfg.  Co.,  A.  H.  Wirz,  Jos.  G.  Taite’s  Sons,  J.  Michael,  Fox,  Fultz  & Webster, 
and  the  American  Triturate  Mould  Co. 

vii 


ABBREVIATIONS. 


B.  or  Br.  P.,  British  Pharmacopoeia,  1885. 

Br.  Add.,  Additions  to  the  British  Pharmacopoeia,  1890. 

Cc.,  Cubic  centimeter. 

Cm.,  Centimeter. 

E. ,  English. 

F.  Cod.,  Codex  Medicamentarius ; Pharmacopee  Fran§aise,  1884. 

F.  It.,  Farmacopea  d’ltalia,  1892. 

Fr.,  French. 

G. ,  German. 

Gm.,  Gram. 

M. ,  Meter. 

Mgm.,  Milligram. 

Mm.,  Millimeter. 

N.  F.  or  Nat.  Form.,  National  Formulary. 

Nat.  Ord.,  Natural  Order. 

Off.  Prep.,  Official  Preparations. 

P.  A.,  Pharmacopcea  Austriaca,  1889. 

P.  G.,  Pharmacopoea  Germanica  (Arzneibuch),  1890. 

Sp.,  Spanish. 

Sp.  gr.,  Specific  gravity. 

U.  S.  or  U.  S.  P.,  the  Pharmacopoeia  of  the  United  States  of  America,  1893. 

The  titles  of  many  books  and  periodicals  to  which  reference  is  made  in  the  text  are  abbre- 
viated, but  not  to  such  an  extent  as  to  necessitate  their  addition  to  this  list, 
viii 


THE 


NATIONAL  DISPENSATORY. 


ABRUS.— Abrus. 

Indian  Liquorice , Wild  Liquorice , E. ; Liane  reglisse , Reglisse  indienne , Fr. ; Indisches 
Siissholz , (x. 

The  root  and  seeds  of  Abrus  precatorius,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Medicinal 
Plants , 77. 

Nat.  Ord. — Leguminosse,  Papilionaceae,  Vicieae. 

Origin. — This  is  a twining  shrub  indigenous  to  India,  where  it  is  known  as  gunja , 
goontch , or gurginja , and  now  naturalized  in  all  tropical  countries.  The  leaves  are  abrupt- 
ly pinnate,  and  have  from  20  to  30  linear  or  oblong,  obtuse,  entire,  smooth,  and  pale- 
green  leaflets,  about  15  Mm.  (|  inch)  long,  and  having  a sweet  liquorice-like  taste.  The 
rose-colored  flowers  are  clustered  in  one-sided  long-stalked  racemes,  and  the  oblong-rhom- 
boidal,  short-beaked  legumes  contain  from  4 to  6 seeds. 

Description. — Radix  abri.  The  root  is  seen  in  commerce  in  more  or  less  twisted 
pieces,  varying  in  length,  and  about  5 to  20  Mm.  (-J— £ inch)  thick.  It  has  a thin,  pale 
reddish-brown  bark,  containing  near  the  middle  layer  a circular  zone  of  sclerenchyma- 
cells,  and  in  the  inner  layer  strong  bast-fibres,  which  are  scattered  without  regularity 
through  the  liber  parenchyma.  The  wood  is  yellowish,  porous,  breaks  with  a short  fibrons 
fracture,  and  is  composed  of  circles  of  wood-fibres  containing  rather  large  ducts  and  alter- 
nating with  circles  of  parenchyma,  the  whole  radially  traversed  by  medullary  rays,  some 
of  which  are  narrow,  others  much  broader.  The  root  has  a slight  not  agreeable  odor  and 
a bitterish,  mucilaginous  taste,  with  a somewhat  acrid  and  sweetish  after-taste  resembling 
that  of  liquorice  root. 

Semen  abri  ; Prayer-beads,  Jumble-beads,  Crab’s  eyes,  E. ; Pois  d’Amerique,  Fr. ; 
Paternoster-Erbsen,  G.  The  seeds  are  globular-ovate,  about  5 Mm.  (£  inch)  long, 
scarlet-red,  glossy,  and  have  a black  spot  surrounding  the  grayish  hilum ; the  testa  is 
hard,  and  encloses  a whitish  fleshy  embryo  consisting  of  plano-convex  cotyledons  and  an 
accumbent  radicle.  The  seeds  are  inodorous  and  have  a slight  bean-like  taste.  They 
have  been  introduced  under  their  Brazilian  name,  jequiriti  or  guequiri. 

Composition. — Berzelius  ascertained  that  the  leaves  and  branches  contain  a princi- 
ple closely  resembling  glycyrrhizin.  The  same  principle  is  also  present  in  the  root,  which 
in  addition  contains  sugar;  but  nothing  is  known  of  the  remaining  constituents.  Prof. 
Warden  (1882)  isolated  from  the  seeds  crystalline  abric  acid , which  is  slightly  soluble  in 
cold  water  and  contains  nitrogen.  An  alkaloid,  most  likely  a decomposition  product,  was 
obtained  by  Rigaud  and  Dusart  (1883),  and  fixed  oil  with  cholesterin  and  lecythin  by 
Heckel  and  Schlagdenhauflen  (1886).  The  physiological  properties  of  the  seeds  were 
shown  by  Warden  and  Waddell  (1884)  to  be  due  to  abrin,  a mixture  of  protein  compounds 
which  are  rendered  inactive  by  moist  heat.  This  is  probably  identical  with  the  jequiritin 
of  Bruylants  and  Vinneman  (1885),  and  consists  mainly  of  a paraglobulin  and  an  albu- 
mose,  of  which  the  former  is  soluble  in  a 15  per  cent,  solution  of  sodium  chloride,  and  is 
coagulated  at  80°  C.,  while  the  latter  is  not  coagulated  by  heat,  but  with  nitric  acid  yields 
a precipitate  redissolved  on  heating  and  reappearing  on  cooling. 

Allied  Drug. — Cassia  Absus,  Limit,  has  oval-oblong,  flat,  glossy-black  seeds,  which  are  used 
in  Eastern  countries  in  purulent  conjunctivitis  and  as  an  application  to  sores. 

Action  and  Uses. — In  the  Punjab  sharpened  cones  of  a dried  paste  made 
from  abrus-seeds  are  thrust  into  cattle  to  poison  them  (Amer.  Jour.  Pharm.,  May,  1885, 
p.  242).  Warden  and  Waddell  of  Calcutta  declare  that  “poisonous  symptoms  are 

1 


2 


ABU  US. 


not  developed  when  the  seeds  are  given  by  the  mouth.  They  are  eaten  in  large  quantities 
by  the  Hindoos  to  prevent  fecundity”  ( Therap . Gaz.,  ix.  646).  Bufalini’s  experiments 
showed  that  abrus  infusion  injected  into  the  veins  of  animals  arrested  the  heart  in  diastole 
{Centralhl.  f.  Therap.,  vii.  379).  The  seeds  are  said  to  have  been  used  for  centuries 
in  Brazil  as  a popular  remedy  for  granular  lids  and  pannus.  In  1862  attention  was  called 
to  abrus  in  Europe,  but  it  was  soon  forgotten,  and  it  was  not  until  1882  that  renewed 
interest  was  awakened  in  it  by  the  reports  of  Be  Wecker.  An  infusion,  of  the  strength 
of  one  to  twenty,  applied  to  the  eye  of  a rabbit  produced  violent  inflammation  of  the 
organ,  with  oedema  and  false  membrane,  ulceration  of  the  cornea,  swelling  of  the  parotid 
and  submaxillary  glands,  and  finally  internal  suppuration  of  the  eyes  and  maxillary 
glands,  and  gangrene  of  the  eyelids.  It  is  said  that  the  drug  is  much  abused  in  Brazil, 
and  that  “ one  often  sees  violent  inflammation  of  the  lids  which  extends  to  the  face,  neck, 
and  upper  part  of  the  thorax,  the  submaxillary  glands  often  taking  on  an  intense  inflam- 
mation which  ends  in  suppuration  ” {Med.  News,  xlii.  412).  In  experiments  upon  ani- 
mals Cornil  and  Berlioz  determined  that  when  injected  under  the  skin  or  into  the  blood 
it  produces  in  the  former  situation  abscess  or  gangrene,  and  in  the  latter  virulent  toxical 
phenomena,  with  an  enormous  generation  of  bacilli  in  the  blood  and  lymph  ( Archives  gen., 
Nov.  1883,  p.  623). 

The  use  of  abrus  is  limited  at  present  to  those  obstinate  cases  of  granular  ophthalmia, 
trachoma,  cicatricial  degeneration,  and  pannus  which  are  notoriously  rebellious  to  treat- 
ment, and  which  some  surgeons  have  not  scrupled  to  attempt  to  cure  by  the  application 
of  gonorrhoeal  pus.  Its  action  is  chiefly  substitutive,  removing  an  existing  inflammation 
by  the  action  of  a stronger  but  temporary  one.  But  it  is  also  to  some  extent  destructive 
or  caustic.  Be  Wecker  described  the  effects  of  its  application  thus : The  infusion  is 
applied  several  times  a day  until  its  action  begins  to  be  felt.  Within  a few  hours  after 
the  first  use  of  the  lotion  the  conjunctiva  becomes  strongly  irritated,  and  on  the  follow- 
ing day  severely  inflamed  ; the  eyes  cannot  be  opened,  the  lids  are  oedematous,  and  a 
watery  liquid  escapes  from  between  them.  This  period  of  irritation  lasts  for  about  three 
days,  and  is  attended  with  fever,  pain,  and  sleeplessness.  On  the  third  day  suppuration 
begins,  and  for  five  days  continues  copiously,  and  then  gradually  declines  until  about  the 
fifteenth  day,  when  the  patient  finds  himself  free  from  both  inflammation  and  granulation, 
while  the  cloudiness  of  the  cornea  subsides  ( Centralhl . f Therapie , i.  200).  In  this 
description  no  allusion  is  made  to  the  striking  peculiarity  mentioned  by  most  other 
reporters,  the  formation  of  a false  membrane  upon  the  conjunctiva,  which,  indeed,  was 
originally  described  by  Be  Wecker  and  by  various  other  observers  as  a yellowish-white 
membrane  adhering  firmly  to  the  upper,  but  less  so  to  the  lower,  lids  (Gruening  Med. 
Record,  xxiii.  288  ; Brown,  Med.  News,  xlii.  412).  Be  Wecker  also  asserted  that  the 
cornea  is  not  at  all  endangered  by  the  artificial  inflammation  ( loc . sup.  cit .),  a statement 
also  made  by  Peck  {Med.  Record,  xxiv.  30).  Br.  E.  Smith,  on  the  other  hand,  claims 
that  it  cures  inflammations,  provided  they  are  not  sthenic  ( Therap.  Gaz.,  xi.  640)  ; but  Sat- 
tler  makes  the  very  opposite  declaration,,  saying  that  not  only  may  the  application  cause 
existing  ulcers  to  spread,  but  also  create  new  ones  {Centralhl. /.  Therap .,  i.  335);  and 
Standish  admits  that  this  result  is  not  unusual  {Boston  Med.  & Surg.  Jour.,  June,  1883, 
p.  609).  It  seems  to  be  agreed  that  chronic  catarrhal  ophthalmia  with  mucoid  or  puru- 
loid  secretion,  but  without  thickening  or  infiltration  of  the  conjunctiva,  is  not  favorably 
influenced  by  jequirity.  Chronic  suppuration  of  the  middle  ear  is  curable  by  jequirity  ; 
and  Borde  makes  a similar  statement  in  regard  to  chronic  metritis  {Bull,  de  Therap., 
cxi.  376).  Br.  Shoemaker  has  employed  a paste  or  emulsion  made  from  the  red  hulls  of 
the  seeds  as  a semi-caustic  in  chronic  epithelial  and  lupoid  ulcers  of  the  skin.  This 
method,  it  is  said,  “ should  be  applied  with  caution,  as  it  may  give  rise  to  alarming  symp- 
toms, erysipelatous  inflammation,  and,  if  used  on  weak  and  irritable  patients,  to  great 
constitutional  disturbance  ” {Practitioner,  xxxiii.  364).  A similar  method  was  pursued 
by  Hawies  {Jour.  Am.  Med.  Assoc.,  v.  321).  Haranger  claims  to  have  “ found  in  an 
infusion  of  jequirity,  as  in  the  pus  of  gonorrhoea,  micrococci,  corpuscles,  and  granules  ” 
{Bidl.  de  Therap.,  civ.  42).  Cornil  and  Berlioz  declare  that  “the  bacterise  of  jequirity 
are  its  only  active  principle  ” {Archives  gen.,  Nov.  1883,  p.  618).  But  this  doctrine  is 
contradicted  by  the  following  facts  : 1.  The  inflammation  may  be  reproduced  an  unlimited 
number  of  times ; 2.  Its  action  on  all  mucous  membranes  is  the  same ; 3.  Its  effects  may 
be  closely  imitated  by  an  infusion  of  common  peas  (Tangemann).  Klein  demonstrated 
that  a sterilized  infusion  of  jequirity  produced  the  so-called  characteristic  inflammation, 
as  well  as  one  swarming  with  bacteria.  Many  observers  have  confirmed  most  of  these 
conclusions ; and  Warden  and  Waddell  claim  that  the  active  principle  is  “ a proteid  body, 


ABSINTHIUM. 


3 


acting  with  greater  rapidity  in  proportion  to  the  completeness  of  its  solution  at  the  time 
jf  administration  ( loc . citi).  The  latter  statement  has  been  confirmed  by  Bruylants  and 
Vinneman,  and  partially  so  by  Bechamp  and  Dujardin  (Therap.-  Gaz.,  ix.,  p.  617). 

In  Brazil  the  seeds  were  soaked  for  several  days  in  cold  water,  their  kernels  removed, 
reduced  to  a fine  powder,  macerated  for  two  hours,  and  filtered.  If  the  envelope,  or 
testa,  is  employed  along  with  the  kernels,  intenser  effects  are  produced.  The  mode  of 
using  this  remedy  is  described  by  Be  Wecker  as  follows:  “Powder  32  jequirity  beans, 
and  macerate  them  for  24  hours  in  500  Gm.  (a  pint)  of  cold  water ; then  add  an  equal 
quantity  of  hot  water,  and  filter  when  cool.  The  patient  should  bathe  the  eyes  with  this 
infusion  several  times  a day  until  inflammation  sets  in.”  Others  advise  the  liquid  to  be 
applied  with  cotton  or  a camel’s-hair  pencil,  and  the  most  judicious  rule  appears  to  be  to 
allow  twenty-four  hours  to  elapse  between  the  first  and  second  applications,  and  that  on 
no  account  should  the  infusion  be  applied  to  the  eye  on  compresses.  Sattler  directs 
that  the  envelope  of  from  10  or  12  seeds  (Gm.  1)  should  be  removed  with  hot  water 
before  the  infusion  is  made ; the  seeds  should  then  be  powdered  and  200  Ccm.  (fgvj)  of 
hot  water  added.  This  infusion  should,  after  standing  for  24  hours,  be  filtered.  Its 
strength  is  reckoned  as  ^ per  cent.  The  excessive  action  of  the  infusion,  it  is  said,  may 
be  moderated  by  a weak  solution  of  corrosive  sublimate  ; and  some  prefer  to  use  the 
powder  of  the  seeds  as  more  manageable  than  the  infusion. 

The  seeds  of  Cassia  absus,  or  C.  auriculata,  were  anciently  used  in  powder  or  in  emul- 
sion by  the  Greeks  and  Egyptians  in  the  treatment  of  ophthalmia , and  are  said  to  be  still 
employed  by  the  latter  as  a domestic  remedy.  Long  ago  introduced  by  Y.  Graefe  into 
European  practice,  they  fell  into  disuse  on  account  of  the  unfavorable  reports  of  some 
observers.  The  dried  seeds,  finely  powdered  and  mixed  with  an  equal  quantity  of  white 
sugar,  were  strewn  upon  the  conjunctiva,  especially  after  the  acute  iuflammation  had 
subsided.  An  ointment  containing  the  powdered  seeds  was  likewise  used,  and  in  acute 
cases  an  infusion  was  employed  as  a collyrium  (Richter,  Ansfiirl.  Arzneim .,  ii.  267). 


ABSINTHIUM,  U.  S. — Absinthium. 

Herba  s.  Summitates  absinthii , P.  A.,  P.  G. ; Wormwood,  E.  ; Absinthe  commune , 
Grande  absinthe , Aluine , Fr.  Cod. ; Wermuth,  Alsei , G. ; Assenzio,  F.  It. ; Ajenjos , Sp. 

The  tops  and  leaves  of  Artemisia  Absinthium,  Linn6;  s.  Absinthium  vulgare,  Lamarck. 
Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 156. 

Nat.  Ord. — Composite,  Anthemidese. 

Description. — This  perennial  plant  is  indigenous  to  hilly  and  mountainous  regions 
of  Northern  Africa,  of  the  greater  portion  of  Europe,  and  of  the  northern  part  of  Asia ; 
it  is  frequently  cultivated  for  medicinal  purposes  both  in  Europe  and  in  this  country, 
where  it  has  become  naturalized  in  some  localities,  and  grows  wild  in  waste  places  and 
along  roadsides.  The  root  produces  several  stems,  which  are  about  1 M.  (3i  feet)  high, 
woody  at  the  base,  nearly  round,  somewhat  furrowed,  and  branching  above.  The  radical 
leaves  attain  a length  of  15  to  20  Cm.  (6  to  8 inches)  ; the  stem-leaves  are  25  to  75  Mm. 
(1  to  3 inches)  long,  petiolate,  the  upper  ones  sessile  ; their  outline  is  roundish-triangular ; 
they  are  twice  or  thrice  pinnatifid,  the  segments  lanceolate,  the  terminal  one  spatulate. 
The  bracts  are  merely  three-cleft  or  simple  and  lanceolate.  The  very  numerous  nodding 
heads  of  yellow  flowers  are  in  paniculate  racemes,  hemispherical  in  shape,  with  the  invo- 
lucre imbricate ; the  receptacle  small  and  hairy,  the  marginal  florets  pistillate,  and  not 
ligulate,  the  numerous  disk-florets  perfect  and  five-toothed,  and  the  ovary  obovoid  and 
crowned  with  a disk,  but  destitute  of  pappus.  The  entire  plant,  with  the  exception  of 
the  stouter  portions  of  the  stem,  has  a hoary  appearance  from  the  numerous  appressed 
white  silky  hairs,  intermixed  with  oil-glands,  leaving  merely  the  upper  surface  of  the 
leaves  of  a dark-green  color. 

Wormwood  should  be  gathered  while  flowering,  during  July  or  August,  the  coarse 
stems  being  rejected.  On  careful  drying  the  fresh  herb  loses  from  75  to  80  per  cent, 
of  its  weight.  The  wild-grown  herb  has  a strong  aromatic  not  very  agreeable  odor,  and 
a persistent  and  intensely  bitter  taste ; in  cultivation  the  bitter  taste  is  somewhat 
decreased. 

Constituents. — The  odor  of  wormwood  is  due  to  a limpid  volatile  oil,  of  which 
from  .4  to  1.5  per  cent,  is  obtained  from  the  dry  herb.  According  to  Zeller,  wormwood 
grown  in  a warm  climate  yields  less  volatile  oil,  and  cultivation  appears  to  decrease  it. 
Its  color  varies  between  dark-green  and  yellowish-brown,  but  by  careful  rectification  it 


4 


ABSINTHIUM. 


may  be  obtained  colorless.  On  exposure  to  light  and  air  it  acquires  a dark-brown  colcr 
and  a somewhat  viscid  consistence.  Its  specific  gravity  varies  between  .90  and  .973;  it 
dissolves  in  1 part  of  85  per  cent.,  and  in  all  proportions  of  absolute,  alcohol ; has  a rotat- 
ing power  to  the  right  in  the  polariscope,  and  possesses  the  pungent  aromatic  odor  and 
taste  of  the  herb.  It  consists  mainly  of  absinihol , the  composition  of  which  is  C40H16O, 
which  boils  at  200°  C.  (392°  F.),  and  splits  with  zinc  chloride  into  water  and  cymene, 
Ci0H14  ; it  contains  also  2 per  cent,  of  terpenes  boiling  at  150°  and  above  120°  C.,  and  a 
few  per  cent,  of  blue  oils  boiling  at  300°  C.  and  upward  (C.  R.  A.  Wright,  1874).  The 
volatile  oil  is  the  chief  constituent  of  the  liquor  which  is  largely  consumed  in  Western 
Europe  under  the  name  of  absinthe , and  which  is  prepared  either  by  distilling  wormwood, 
melissa,  anise,  and  other  aromatics  with  whiskey,  or  by  dissolving  in  the  latter  the  corre- 
sponding volatile  oils. 

The  intensely  bitter  taste  resides  in  absinthin , which  is  precipitated  from  the  infusion 
by  tannin  (Kromayer,  1861).  Since  1827  the  bitter  principle  had  been  repeatedly 
obtained  in  an  impure  condition,  until  Mein  (1834)  succeeded  in  preparing  it  in  a some- 
what crystalline  condition.  Senger  (1892)  found  the  best  process  for  its  preparation  to 
be  by  agitating  the  ethereal  tincture  of  the  herb  with  water,  removing  coloring  matter 
from  the  aqueous  solution  with  aluminum  hydroxide,  again  treating  the  liquid  with  ether, 
and  evaporating  this  solvent.  It  forms  a faintly  yellowish,  glass-like  mass,  yielding  a 
white  powder,  melts  at  65°  C.,  is  soluble  in  water,  alcohol,  and  ether,  and  is  a glucoside, 
yielding  dextrose,  a volatile  compound,  and  a resinous  acid.  Composition,  C15H.20O4  (Sen- 
ger). Wormwood  contains  also  some  tannin  (green  with  iron  salts),  resin,  starch, 
albumin,  potassium  nitrate  and  other  salts,  succinic  (Braconnot’s  absinthic  acid,  1815), 
malic,  and  acetic  acids. 

Other  Medicinal  Species  of  Artemisia. — A.  pontica , Limit ; Roman  wormwood,  E. ; Petite 
absinthe,  Fr. ; Romischer  Beifuss,  G.  Indigenous  to  Southern  Europe  and  Central  Asia.  Hoary 
tomentose,  leaves  decompound  pinnatifid,  segments  narrow  linear ; odor  strong,  rather  pleasant ; 
taste  pungent,  aromatic,  and  bitter ; smaller  and  less  esteemed  than  wormwood. 

A.  Abrotanum,  Linne;  Southernwood,  Old  Man,  E.;  Aurone  male,  Fr.  ; Eberraute,  G. ; 
Abrotano,  It .,  Sp.  Western  Asia  and  Southern  Europe;  cultivated  in  U.  S.  Minutely  hairy, 
segments  of  the  pinnatifid  leaves  capillaceous  ; odor  lemon-like  ; taste  aromatic  and  bitter. 

A.  vulgaris,  Linne ; Mugwort,  E.;  Couronne  de  Saint-Jean,  Armoise  commune,  Fr. ; Beifuss, 
G. ; Artemisa,  Sp.  Northern  Africa,  Europe,  and  Siberia;  cultivated  and  spontaneous  in  U.  S. 
Stem  often  purplish  ; leaves  subsessile,  green  above,  white  tomentose  beneath,  pinnatifid,  seg- 
ments linear  lanceolate,  often  incised;  odor  aromatic,  agreeable;  taste  aromatic,  bitterish,  and 
somewhat  acrid.  The  root,  radix  artemisice , is  also  medicinally  employed  in  Europe.  It  is 
about  20  Cm.  (8  inches)  long,  woody  and  beset  with  numerous  thin  and  tough  radicles,  which 
are  the  parts  used ; they  are  5 to  10  Cm.  (2  to  4 inches)  long,  and  about  2 Mm.  (T^  inch)  thick, 
are  light  brown,  internally  whitish,  and  have  an  angular  wrood  and  a thick  bark,  with  a thin 
bast-layer,  and,  outside  thereof,  with  5 or  6 groups  of  resin-cells.  The  root  has  a slight  not  very 
pleasant  odor,  a sweetish  and  slightly  acrid  taste,  and  contains,  according  to  Hummel  and 
Jaenicke  (1826),  Bretz  and  Eliason  (1826),  and  Hergt  (1830),  a little  butyraceous  volatile  oil, 
acrid  resin,  tannin,  etc. 

A.  Dracunculus,  Linne;  Tarragon,  E. ; Estragon,  Fr.,  Sp. ; Dragunbeifuss,  Kaisersalat,  G. 
Siberia,  Tartary,  Southern  Europe ; cultivated.  Plant  green  and  glabrous ; radical  leaves  trifid, 
stem-leaves  narrow  lanceolate,  entire  ; odor  anise-like  ; taste  aromatic,  bitterish.  The  volatile  oil 
consists  largely  of  anethol,  C10H12O. 

A.  ludovici ana,  Nuttall ; Western  Mugwort.  It  grows  from  Michigan  to  Oregon  and  south- 
ward, is  1-1.5  M.  (3  to  5 feet)  high,  white  woolly,  with  lanceolate,  deeply  cut,  serrate,  or 
entire  leaves  and  numerous  small  flower-heads.  It  has  a bitter  taste,  and  a slight  odor  like  that 
of  wormwood.  The  fruit  of  this  species,  and  of  A dracunculoides,  Fursh , is  used  as  food  by  the 
Indians.  The  last-named  plant  extends  from  Western  Illinois  to  Oregon  and  southward  to  Ari- 
zona ; it  has  also  appeared  in  Arkansas.  It  has  linear  entire  smooth  leaves,  of  which  the  lower 
ones  are  occasionally  three-cleft,  and  very  numerous  small  mostly  pedicelled  heads  in  compound 
leafy  panicles.  It  resembles  the  preceding  in  odor  and  taste. 

A.  filifolia,  Torrey. , growing  from  Nebraska  to  New  Mexico,  and  known  there  as  southern- 
wood, has  filiform,  revolute,  sometimes  three-cleft,  whitish  tomentose  leaves,  and  small  about  four- 
flowered  heads  in  leafy  panicles,  and  is  more  aromatic  than  the  preceding. 

A.  frigida,  Willdenow,  known  in  Colorado  as  sierra  salvia  and  mountain  sage , is  covered  with 
silky  white  hairs,  and  has  small  leaves  with  linear  lobes.  It  was  analyzed  by  F.  A.  Weiss  (1890), 
and  probably  contains  absinthin. 

A.  tridentata,  Nuttall , is  the  sagebrush  of  Western  North  America,  growing  from  Sonora  to 
Nevada  and  Oregon  and  eastward  to  the  Rocky  Mountains.  It  is  a shrub  1.5  to  2 M.  (5-6  feet) 
high,  with  crowded  canescent,  cuneate,  and  truncate,  mostly  bluntly  three-toothed  leaves  and 
obovoid  or  oblong  flower-heads,  which  are  about!  Mm.  inch)  long,  are  about  five-flowered,  and 
spicately  clustered  in  narrow  compound  panicles.  The  plant  contains  a pungent  volatile  oil,  and 
is  used  by  the  Indians  in  the  form  of  infusion  for  headaches,  colds,  and  for  worms. 


ACACIA. 


b 


A.  arbuscula,  Nutt .,  and  A.  trifida,  Nutt.,  are  the  dwarf  sagebrushes  of  the  same  localities, 
and  have  similar  properties. 

A.  abyssixjca,  Olivier , is  known  in  Abyssinia  as  tshuking  and  zerechtit.  The  inflorescence, 
which  is  employed,  forms  corymbose  racemes  with  small  globular  heads,  having  a woolly  invo- 
lucre, whitish  florets,  an  aromatic  odor,  somewhat  resembling  chamomile  and  tansy,  and  an  aro- 
matic bitterish  taste.  Dragendorff  (1878)  found  in  it  1.7  per  cent,  volatile  oil,  2.8  tannin,  and  a 
trace  of  bitter  principle. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparations. — Extractum  absinthii  is  prepared  with 
diluted  alcohol  (P.  G.')  or  with  boiling  distilled  water  (P.  Cod.). 

Tinctura  absinthii,  P.  G.  Macerate  wormwood  1 part  with  alcohol  (sp.  gr.  .892)  5 
parts,  express  and  filter. 

Action  and  Uses. — In  small  doses  a stimulant  tonic,  but  in  large  doses,  and 
especially  in  its  alcoholic  preparation  “ absinthe,”  by  its  habitual  use  produces  marked 
derangement  of  the  nervous  system,  with  loss  of  virile  power  and  a peculiar  tendency  to 
hallucinations  and  convulsions  (Laborde,  Archives  gen.,  Nov.  1889,  p.  609).  Wormwood 
may  be  advantageously  employed  in  atonic  and  especially  flatulent  dyspepsia,  and  in 
various  conditions  of  the  system  in  which  local  disorders  are  maintained  by  general 
debility  of  the  functions,  and  particularly  by  that  of  the  digestive  apparatus.  In  this  man- 
ner partly,  and  partly  also  as  a direct  anthelmintic,  it  sometimes  is  used  successfully  to  re- 
move lumbricoid  worms.  Externally,  a decoction  of  wormwood  may  be  applied  as  a dress- 
ing to  unhealthy,  and  indolent  ulcers.  The  dose  of  wormwood  in  substance  is  from 
Gm.  1.30-2.60  (20  to  40  grains).  An  infusion  made  with  Gm.  32  (an  ounce)  of  worm- 
wood in  Gm.  500  (a  pint)  of  water  may  be  given  in  doses  of  Gm.  32-64  (1  or  2 fluid- 
ounces). 

A.  vulgaris  was  at  one  time  held  in  high  repute  as  a remedy  for  epilepsy,  and  especially 
for  those  cases  of  it  which  occur  in  persons  of  feeble  constitution  and  of  a highly  nervous 
temperament — more  especially  in  young  females  with  disordered  menstruation.  It  was 
prescribed  in  hot  infusion,  so  as  to  provoke  diaphoresis,  and  not  only  for  epilepsy,  but  also 
for  the  cure  of  amenorrhoea. 

Prof.  Maisch  has  included  the  following  statements  in  a “ Note  on  Some  American 
Species  of  Artemisia  ” ( Amer . Jour,  of  Phar.,  lii.  69)  : The  infusion  of  A.  ludoviciana 
was  recommended  as  a hair  tonic  and  febrifuge.  The  same  plant  was  used  by  the  Pali- 
Utes  to  assist  childbirth  and  to  stop  hemorrhage  from  the  nose.  A.  dracunculoides  is 
said  to  produce  irritation  when  bruised,  and  the  tea  of  it  to  be  diaphoretic.  A.  filifolia, 
according  to  Dr.  Palmer,  is  used  in  decoction  by  the  Indians  against  swellings  and  bruises, 
and  a very  penetrating  volatile  oil  obtained  from  it  by  distillation  is  useful  in  liniments. 
According  to  the  same  authority,  a strong  tea  made  from  the  sage-plant  of  the  Rocky 
Mountains,  which  includes  several  species  of  Artemisia,  is  given  for  headache,  colds,  and 
worms,  and  a pungent  volatile  oil  may  be  procured  from  it.  It  is  alleged  to  be  diuretic 
and  diaphoretic,  the  former  in  cold,  the  latter  in  hot  infusion  ( Therap.  Gaz.,  xi.  659). 

ACACIA,  U.  S. ; Acacias  Gummi,  Br.,  P.  A.— Gum  Acacia. 

Gummi  arahicum , Gummi  mimosse , P.  G. — Gum  arabic,  E. ; Gomme  arabique,  Fr.  Cod.; 
Arabisches  Gummi,  G. ; Gomma  arabica,  F.  It. ; Goma  arabiga , Sp. 

A gummy  exudation  from  Acacia  Senegal,  Willdenow  (A.  Yerek,  Guittemin  et 
Perottet ),  and  other  species  of  Acacia.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  94. 

Nat.  Ord. — Leguminosae,  Mimoseae,  Acacieae. 

Origin. — The  gum-yielding  species  of  Acacia  are  shrubs  or  trees  with  mostly  abruptly 
bipinnate  leaves,  and  with  the  stipules  often  transformed  into  thorns.  The  flowers  are 
generally  yellow,  have  numerous  stamens,  and  are  aggregated  in  dense  elongated  spikes 
or  in  globular  heads. 

A.  Senegal,  Willdenow , occurs  from  Kordofan,  where  it  is  called  Hashab , west  to  the 
river  Senegal ; it  is  a small  tree  attaining  the  height  of  about  6 M.  (20  feet),  and  yields 
the  Kordofan  and  Senegal  gums. 

Acacia  (Mimosa,  Lamarck')  arabica,  Willdenow,  which  species  includes  also  A.  vera, 
Willd.,  A.  (Mimosa,  Linne)  nilotica,  Dd.ile,  and  A.  Adansonii,  Guittemin  et  Perottet , is  found 
from  India  westward  to  Senegambia,  and  yields  some  brown-colored  gum.  Near  the  Nile 
it  is  known  as  Sont,  and  the  variety  A.  tomentosa,  Bentham , near  the  Senegal  as  Nebneb. 
The  gum  Mogador,  also  known  as  Morocco  and  Barbary  gum,  is  probably  produced  by 
this  species. 


6 


ACACIA. 


A.  tortilis,  Forshal , called  Seyal  or  Seyaleh , and  A.  Ehrenbergii,  Hayne , a shrub,  called 
Seyah , now  yield  little  gum  in  Arabia  and  Upper  Egypt. 

Collection  and  Commerce. — Gum  arabic  has  been  supposed  to  be  formed  by  the 
metamorphosis  of  the  cell-walls  of  the  parenchyma,  or,  according  to  Carre,  of  the  vascular 
bundles  in  the  cambium  layer  ; but  according  to  Hohnel's  investigation  (1888)  it  is  produced 
by  the  transformation  of  the  cell-contents  in  the  inner  bark,  and  the  gum-cleft  occupies  only 
a small  space.  The  gum  exudes  spontaneously,  but  the  discharge  is  often  hastened  by 
incisions.  It  is  yielded  most  plentifully  during  the  hot  summer  months,  the  trees  pro- 
ducing it  in  largest  quantity  having  a sickly  appearance.  The  thick  liquid  hardens  upon 
the  bark,  and  finally  falls  to  the  ground,  but  is  collected  by  detaching  it  from  the  tree 
with  the  aid  of  a wooden  axe. 

The  best  gum  is  collected  westward  of  the  White  Nile  in  Kordofan,  and  enters  com- 
merce by  being  shipped  down  the  Nile  to  Alexandria ; it  is  the  Kordofan  gum , called 
Hashabi  in  Egypt,  and  for  some  years  has  been  very  scarce.  A gum  nearly  or  quite  as 
handsome  in  appearance,  though  considered  inferior  in  quality,  is  collected  near  the  Blue 
Nile  and  shipped  from  Sennaar,  either  down  the  Nile  or  by  way  of  the  port  of  Suakin 
(Savakin)  on  the  Bed  Sea  ; it  is  the  Sennaar  or  Sennari  gum , which,  of  late  years,  has 
become  quite  plentiful  in  our  commerce.  The  kind  known  in  commerce  as  Suakin  or 
Savakin  gum  is  collected  farther  east,  not  far  from  the  west  coast  of  the  Bed  Sea,  and 
shipped  from  the  port  named.  The  gum  collected  in  Southern  Abyssinia  and  adjoining 
countries  is  mostly  exported  from  Berbera,  either  by  way  of  the  East  Indies  or  through 
some  neighboring  ports  of  Arabia  to  the  Mediterranean.  Some  gum  is  collected  in  India 
from  several  species  of  Acacia,  Albizzia,  Anogeissus,  Bauhinia,  Odina,  Feronia  elephan- 
tum,  Correa , etc.,  but  the  great  bulk  of  the  commercial  East  Indian  gum  is  of  African 
origin.  Arabia  also  exports  some  gum  ; but  the  Gedda,  or  Jidda  gum  and  the  gum  Tor  or 
Turic  come  originally  from  the  Somali  coast  of  Eastern  Africa. 

Gum  arabic,  before  it  finally  enters  commerce,  is  usually  assorted  in  the  Mediteranean 
ports,  the  clearest  and  whitest  quality  being  known  as  Turkey  gum.  It  is  imported  in 
casks,  boxes,  bags,  and  also  in  skins. 

Description. — Gum  arabic  occurs  in  roundish  tears  of  various  sizes,  but  usually 
more  or  less  broken,  and  then  constitutes  angular  fragments,  of  a glass-like,  somewhat 
iridescent  fracture,  opaque  in  consequence  of  the  numerous  fissures  contained  in  it,  but 
transparent  in  thin  pieces.  The  finest  quality  is  colorless  or  white  in  mass,  the  pieces 
exhibiting  more  or  less  of  a yellowish  or  brownish  tint  being  the  inferior  varieties. 

It  has  a very  faint  odor  and  a mucilaginous  insipid  taste.  It  is  completely  insoluble 
in  strong  alcohol,  but  dissolves  in  2 parts  of  water,  forming  a thick  transparent  mucilage 
of  an  acid  reaction  ; this  solution  is  not  precipitated  by  lead  acetate,  but  basic  lead  ace- 
tate causes  a white  precipitate  even  in  very  dilute  solutions  (1  in  50,000)  of  this  gum ; 
soluble  silicates  yield  white  precipitates,  and  borax  and  ferric  salts  gelatinize  the  solu- 
tion. Its  specific  gravity  varies  between  1.355  and  1.491,  and  after  drying  at  100° 
C.  (212°  F.)  is  increased  to  1.525,  with  an  absolute  loss  of  13.14  per  cent.  (Fliickiger). 

Savakin  gum,  which  is  quite  brittle,  is  often  not  entirely  soluble  in  water,  but  yields 
with  it  a past}7  mass  of  rather  strong  acid  reaction,  depositing,  when  diluted  with  water, 
transparent  globules,  which  Beimann  (1881)  found  to  consist  of  metagummic  acid ; this 
may  be  rendered  soluble  by  the  addition  of  a little  potassa  or  by  lime-water. 

For  pharmaceutical  purposes  only  the  whitest  gum  should  be  used,  but  in  the  arts  the 
colored  gums  are  frequently  quite  as  serviceable,  and  their  solutions  are  decolorized  by 
filtering  through  aluminum  hydrate,  or  by  treatment  with  sulphurous  acid,  followed  by 
barium  carbonate. 

Composition. — Gum  arabic  or  arabin  is  the  calcium  compound  of  arabic  or  gummic 
acid , but  contains  also  magnesium  and  potassium.  This  acid,  which  has  been  found  by 
Scheibler  (1873)  in  the  sugar-beet,  and  is  identical  with  Fremy’s  metapectic  acid , may  be 
obtained  pure  by  precipitating  with  alcohol  the  mucilage,  previously  acidulated  with 
hydrochloric  acid,  washing  the  precipitate  well  with  alcohol,  and  repeating  the  operation 
several  times.  While  still  moist,  gummic  acid  is  soluble  in  water,  and  from  this  solution 
it  is  not  precipitated  by  alcohol  unless  hydrochloric  acid  be  added.  After  drying  (meta- 
gummic acid  of  Fremy)  it  merely  swells  up,  but  does  not  dissolve  either  in  cold  or  boiling 
water,  in  which  it  is  rendered  soluble  again  on  the  addition  of  alkalies.  It  is  amorphous, 
and  after  drying  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  its  composition  is  C12H22On ; treated  with  lime- 
water  and  alcohol,  the  compound  C12H20CaOu  + 5C12H22On  is  obtained  (Neubauer,  1854). 
This  contains  2.56  per  cent.  CaO  — 4.58  CaC03.  Lowenthal  and  Hausmann  (1853) 
obtained  3.17  to  3.30  per  cent,  of  ashes  from  gum  arabic.  Solution  of  gum  rotates  polar- 


ACACIA. 


7 


ized  light  usually  to  the  left,  but  some  kinds  have  a right  rotation.  By  continued  boil- 
ing with  dilute  sulphuric  acid  sugar  is  produced  ; nitric  acid  oxidizes  it  to  mucic,  sac- 
charic, tartaric,  and  oxalic  acids.  Some  gums  yield  little  or  no  mucic  acid,  and  these,  on 
being  treated  with  dilute  sulphuric  acid,  produce  arabinose , C12H.2.2On,  which  crystallizes 
from  hot  alcohol  in  groups  of  minute  radiating  prisms,  is  not  fermentable,  but  reduces 
Fehling’s  solution  like  grape-sugar.  It  was  discovered  by  Scheibler  in  1868,  and  obtained 
also  from  the  gum  of  the  juice  of  the  sugar-beet.  Kiliani  (1880)  regarded  the  sugar  as 
identical  with  lactose.  But  Claesson  (1881)  proved  it  to  be  distinct  from  the  latter; 
however,  from  gums  which  yield  much  mucic  acid  a sugar  was  obtained  corresponding  in 
the  main  with  lactose.  Reichardt’s  pararabin  (1875)  is  a constituent  of  the  sugar-beet, 
soluble  in  warm  dilute  acids,  swelling  with  water,  and  by  long-continued  boiling  with 
alkalies  converted  into  arabic  acid. 

The  inferior  qualities  of  gum  contain  a little  grape-sugar,  which  may  be  removed  by 
alcohol;  thus  purified,  gum  does  not  reduce  alkaline  solutions  of  cupric  oxide.  3 Gra. 
Kordofan  (and  Senegal)  gum,  precipitated  from  its  aqueous  solution  by  an  excess  (15 
grams)  of  solution  of  subacetate  of  lead,  yield  a scarcely  opalescent  filtrate,  which  remains 
almost  clear  with  ammonia.  The  filtrate  yielded  under  similar  circumstances  from  Sen- 
naar  gum  is  slowly  obtained,  is  milky,  and  yields  with  ammonia  a gelatinous  precipitate 
(Schlosser,  1869). 

Other  Varieties  of  Gum. — Savakin  or  Suakin  Gum,  which  is  described  above,  is  also  known 
as  talca  or  talha  gum , and  is  the  exudation  of  Acacia  stenoearpa,  HocMtetter , and  A.  fistula, 
Schweinfurth. 

Gum  Senegal  derives  its  name  from  the  river  Senegal.  It  is  chiefly  the  product  of  Acacia  Sen- 
egal, and  to  a limited  extent  also  of  a few  other  species  of  Acacia  growing  in  Senegambia  and 
adjoining  countries  of  Western  Africa.  It  occurs  often  in  elongated  and  larger  tears  than  the  Egyp- 
tian gum,  mostly  varies  in  color  between  yellow  and  brownish-red,  has  few  fissures,  but  occa- 
sionally contains  air-cavities  in  the  centre,  and  otherwise  has  the  appearance  and  chemical  proper- 
ties of  gum  arabic.  A variety  called  yum  Galam , gomme  du  bas  dv  jleuve  in  France,  is  lighter 
in  color,  and  has  not  the  bitterish  taste  often  found  in  the  ordinary  kind.  Senegal  gum  enters 
commerce  through  France,  where  it  is  officinal ; it  is  extensively  used  in  the  arts.  The  principal 
collection  commences  in  March,  and  in  some  years  has  reached  5,000,000  Kgm. 

Cape  Gum,  imported  from  the  Cape  of  Good  Hope,  exudes  from  Acacia  horrida,  Willdenow , 
occurs  in  small  tears  and  fragments,  and  is  of  a pale-yellow  to  amber  color, 

Australian  .Gum,  Wattle  Gum,  the  produce  of  Acacia  decurrens,  Willdenow , A.  pycnantha, 
Bentham , and  other  species,  is  found  in  tears,  which  are  frequently  quite  large,  vary  in  color 
from  yellowish-  to  reddish-brown,  have  a slightly  astringent  taste,  and  break  with  a glass-like 
fracture. 

Mesquite  Gum  is  obtained  from  Prosopis  juliflora,  De  Candolle , s.  Algarobia  (Prosopis,  Gray ) 
glandulosa,  Torrey  A Gray , a tree  6-12  M.  (20  to  40  feet)  high,  indigenous  to  Texas,  New  Mexico, 
and  California,  and  southward  through  Mexico  to  Chili  and  Buenos  Ayres ; the  yield  by  natural 
exudation  is  increased  by  making  incisions ; it  is  collected  during  the  months  of  July,  August, 
and  September.  It  occurs  in  tears  varying  in  size  and  in  color  from  colorless  to  amber-brown, 
and  resembles  gum  arabic  in  the  fissures,  specific  gravity,  solubility,  its  behavior  to  nitric  acid, 
and  the  amount  of  ash  yielded  on  incineration,  2.1  to  3 per  cent. ; but  its  aqueous  solution  is  not 
precipitated  by  subacetate  of  lead,  ferric  salts,  or  borax  ; acetate  of  lead,  with  ammonia  subse- 
quently added,  yields  a gelatinous  precipitate.  The  reactions,  however,  differ  to  some  extent  in 
different  samples,  and  it  is  not  unlikely  that  several  Mimoseae  may  furnish  this  gum. 

Chagual  Gum  is  collected  in  Chili  from  Puya  (Pourretia,  Ruiz  et  Paeon ) lanuginosa,  Molina , 
nat.  ord.  Bromeliaceae,  and  yields  a thick  acidulous  mucilage,  which  is  precipitated  by  lead 
acetate,  but  not  by  borax  or  silicates.  About  20  or  25  per  cent,  of  the  gum  is  insoluble  in 
water. 

Hog  Gum,  Doctor  Gum,  comes  from  South  America  in  translucent  or  transparent  reddish 
irregular  tears,  which  are  but  partly  soluble  in  water.  It  is  usually  referred  to  Rhus  Metopium, 
Linne , by  others  to  Moronobea  coccinea,  Aublet , both  of  which  yield  gummy  exudations.  It  is 
not  identical  with  Hogg  Gum  or  Kathira  of  India,  which  is  obtained  from  Cochlospermum  Gos- 
sypium,  De  Candolle , nat.  ord.  Bixaceae,  and  closely  resembles  the  inferior  kinds  oftragacanth  ; 
its  solution  in  water  is  neutral ; the  portion  insoluble  in  water  yields  with  alkalies  a thick  muci- 
lage of  a pinkish  color,  which  according  to  Mitchell  (1880)  is  not  precipitated  by  acids. 

Adulterations  and  Substitutions.  — The  inferior  kinds  of  gums  described  above 
are  frequently  substituted  for  gum  arabic  in  tears,  and  on  one  occasion  an  adulteration 
with  rock-salt  wa-i  noticed.  In  powder  it  is  liable  to  the  substitution  named,  and  also  to 
adulteration  with  flour  and  dextrin.  The  former  is  easily  detected  by  adding  to  the  cold 
mucilage,  prepared  with  hot  water,  a solution  of  iodine,  when  a blue  color  will  be  produced ; 
the  latter  by  Tronmer’s  test,  which  will  separate  cuprous  oxide  at  ordinary  temperatures 
in  an  hour  or  tvo,  or  immediately  on  heating.  Owing  to  the  high  price  of  gum  arabic 


8 


A CETA  NIL  TD  UM. 


for  some  years  past,  various  substitutes  have  been  seen  in  the  market  prepared  from  the 
mucilage  of  flaxseed,  Irish  moss,  agar-agar,  or  other  drugs,  and  dextrin  has  been  con- 
verted into  granular  or  irregularly  globular  pieces  resembling  gum  arabic. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Powdered  gum  arabic  is  extensively  used  in  the  prepara- 
tion of  emulsions  of  oleoresins,  fixed  and  volatile  oils,  also  for  forming  troches  and  pills; 
for  the  latter  purpose  a solution  of  gum  in  glycerin  is  preferable,  particularly  if  the  pills 
are  to  be  kept  for  some  time.  Gum  arabic  is  preferably  made  into  a moderately  fine 
powder  ( sanded  gum),  which  retains  its  ready  solubility  in  water ; by  drying  it  so  that  it 
may  be  finely  powdered  it  loses  nearly  10  per  cent,  in  weight,  does  not  dissolve  rapidly, 
and  reduces  alkaline  copper  solutions  (Hager,  1873). 

Pasta  gummosa  s.  Pasta  alth.eA;,  Marshmallow  paste.  E. ; Pate  de  gomme ; P.  de 
^guimauve,  Fr. ; Gummipaste,  G.  Dissolve  1000  Gm.  of  white  gum  arabic  in  1000,  Gm. 
of  water,  strain,  add  1000  Gm.  of  sugar,  and  with  continuous  stirring  evaporate  in  a 
water-bath  to  the  consistence  of  thick  honey;  then  add  gradually  100  Gm.  of  orange- 
flower  water,  and  the  white  of  12  eggs,  previously  well  beaten ; continue  to  beat  the  mix- 
ture until  of  proper  consistence ; let  it  cool  upon  a marble  slab  or  in  boxes,  and  keep  it  in 
a mixture  of  3 parts  of  powdered  starch  and  1 of  sugar. — F.  Cod. 

Other  Products  of  Acacia  (see  also  Catechu). — The  sabicu-wood  of  Cuba,  from  A.  formosa, 
Kunth , the  blackwood  of  Australia,  from  A.  melanoxylon,  R.  Brown,  the  fragrant  myall-wood  of 
Australia,  from  A.  homalophylla,  Cunningham,  and  others,  are  valuable  for  cabinet  and  other 
work. 

Acacia  Farnesiana,  Willdenow,  is  indigenous  to  Western  Texas  and  to  the  tropical  and  sub- 
tropical parts  of  Ameiica,  and  is  cultivated  in  Southern  Europe  for  the  fragrant  flowers,  which 
yield  a delicious  perfume,  known  as  cassie.  The  small  tree  is  called  in  Texas  huisache,  and  in 
Mexico  matitar.  In  Germany  the  flowers  of  the  sloe,  Prunus  spinosa,  Linni,  are  known  as 
jlores  acacice. 

Action  and  Uses. — Various  observations  on  the  use  of  acacia  as  food,  and  experi- 
ments upon  animals  that  were  kept  exclusively  upon  a diet  of  this  substance,  appear 
to  render  it  probable  that  it  cannot  contribute  much  to  real  nutrition — that  is,  by 
providing  materials  for  forming  tissue.  It  is  certain  that  an  exclusive  diet  of  gum  can- 
not sustain  life.  Yet  it  may  possibly  retard  waste,  and  thereby  prolong  life.  Such 
appears  to  be  in  part  its  operation  when  used  by  the  sick  in  the  form  of  gum-water. 
But  unquestionably  its  more  demonstrable  merit  consists  in  its  serving  as  a protective 
to  inflamed  surfaces,  such  as  the  mucous  membrane  during  pharyngitis,  laryngitis,  etc., 
when  it  is  usually  given  in  the  form  of  troches  or  lozenges.  In  febrile  affections 
generally,  in  inflammations  of  the  gastro-intestinal  mucous  membrane,  in  gastritis, 
typhoid  fever , dysentery,  etc.,  it  is  in  ordinary  use.  In  all  such  cases  it  is  a local  palli- 
ative. By  coating  the  mucous  membrane  it  moderates  the  irritation  which  the  con- 
tents of  the  intestine  tend  to  maintain,  and  thereby  checks  diarrhoea  and  tends  to  consti- 
pate. Its  solution  (mucilago  acacise)  may  be  rendered  more  agreeable  and  useful  by  the 
addition  of  sugar  and  various  flavoring  syrups ; or  the  syrup,  which  is  officinal,  may  be 
used  alone.  Powdered  acacia  may  be  applied  to  arrest  bleeding  from  leech-bites  and 
other  sources  of  slight  hsemorrhagc.  Its  thick  mucilage  is  sometimes  used  as  a protective 
for  superficial  burns,  excoriations , and  ulcers. 

Mesquite  gum  is  applicable  to  all  the  purposes  of  gum  arabic. 

ACETANILIDUM,  77.  S.,  Br.,  F.  It P.  G.— Acetanilid. 

Antifebrinum,  P.  A. — Phenylacetamide,  Acetylamidobenzene , Antifebrin. 

Formula,  C8H9NO,  or  C6H5NIIC2H30.  Molecular  weight,  134.73. 

Preparation. — Acetanilid  was  first  prepared  by  Gerhard  in  1852  by  acting  upon 
aniline  with  acetyl  chloride  or  with  acetic  anhydride.  It  is  manufactured  by  moderately 
boiling  in  a retort,  connected  with  a reflex  condenser,  equal  parts  of  aniline  and  glacial 
acetic  acid,  until  a small  portion,  removed  from  the  retort,  will  congeal  on  cooling ; the 
mass  is  then  distilled,  when  water  and  acetic  acid  will  pass  over,  and  finally  acetanilid, 
which  is  recrystallized  from  boiling  water.  The  new  compound  is  formed  by  the  elim- 
ination of  water,  according  to  the  equation  C6H5NH2  4 CH3.COOH  JC«H5NH.CH3C0 
+ H*°- 

Properties. — Acetanilid  forms  colorless  glistening  scales  or  a whitfe  shining  crystal- 
line powder,  not  altered  by  exposure  to  air  or  light,  free  from  odor,  bilt  having  a some- 
what pungent,  slightly  burning  taste.  It  melts  at  113°  C.  (235.4°  F.j  (about  112°  C., 


ACETANIL1DUM. 


9 


P.  A.;  235°  F.,  Br.;  112-113°  C.,  F.  It.),  boils  at  295°  C.  (563°  F.)  without  decom- 
position, and  when  ignited  upon  platinum-foil  burns  without  leaving  any  residue.  It  is 
soluble  in  194  parts  of  water  at  15°  C.,  U.  S.,  P.  G. ; in  about  200  parts  of  cold  water, 
Br .,  F.  It.,  and  in  18  parts  of  boiling  water ; also  in  5 parts,  U.  S.  (4  parts  F.  It.  ; 3.5 
parts,  P.  G.)  of  alcohol,  in  0.4  parts  of  boiling  alcohol,  in  about  18  parts  of  ether,  and  is 
easily  soluble  in  chloroform  and  benzene;  but  slightly  soluble  in  carbon  disulphide.  The 
solutions  have  a neutral  reaction  to  test  paper. 

The  tests  of  identity  and  purity  adopted  by  the  different  pharmacopoeias  are  nearly 
identical.  The  solution  of  acetanilid  in  sulphuric  acid  without  the  production  of  a dark 
color  indicates  the  absence  of  dust,  saccharine  matter,  and  many  other  organic  compounds. 
On  heating  about  0.1  Grin,  of  acetanilid  with  a few  Cc.  of  concentrated  solution  (1  in  4) 
of  potassium  or  sodium  hydroxide,  the  characteristic  odor  of  aniline  becomes  noticeable  ; on 
now  adding  chloroform  and  again  heating,  the  disagreeable  odor  of  isonitril  is  evolved 
( U.  S.).  Analogous  reactions  are  produced  by  all  primary  amines,  as  was  shown  by  A. 
W.  Hofmann  (1875)  who  discovered  (1867)  this  isonitril,  known  as  phenyl  carbylamine 
or  phenyl  isocyanide , CfiH5.NC,  which  has  a repulsive,  penetrating  odor  and  is  very  poi- 
sonous. On  boiling  0.1  Gm.  of  acetanilid  for  several  minutes  with  2 Cc.  of  hydrochloric  acid, 
a clear  solution  results,  which,  when  mixed  with  3 Cc.  of  a 5 per  cent,  aqueous  solution 
of  carbolic  acid,  and  afterward  with  5 Cc.  of  a filtered  saturated  solution  of  chlorin- 
ated lime,  acquires  a brownish-red  color,  becoming  blue  upon  supersaturation  with 
ammonia  (ll.  S.).  This  is  the  so-called  indophenol  or  indoaniline  reaction,  which  is  shown 
also  by  phenacetin  and  other  allied  compounds,  from  which  acetanilid  may  be  distin- 
guished by  the  melting-point  and  solubility.  A cold  saturated  aqueous  solution  of 
acetanilid,  added  to  ferric  chloride  test-solution,  should  not  affect  the  color  of  the  latter 
( U.  S.).  This  shows  the  absence  of  aniline  salt,  of  antipyrine,  hydracetin,  and  some 
other  compounds ; on  the  application  of  heat  the  mixture  of  acetanilid  and  ferric  salt 
becomes  deep  red. 

Allied  Compounds. — A number  of  mixtures  of  from  50  to  90  per  cent,  of  acetanilid  wdth 
sodium  bicarbonate,  and  in  some  cases  with  ammonium  bromide,  salicylic  acid,  and  other  com- 
pounds, have  been  introduced  as  proprietary  articles  and  sold  under  copyrighted  names. 

Bromacetanilid,  C6H4BrNH.C2II30,  or  Acethromanilid,  was  prepared  pure  by  Giirke  (1875), 
and  the  para-compound  was  recently  introduced  into  medicine  under  the  name  of  antisepsin.  It 
is  formed  by  the  action  of  bromine  upon  acetanilid,  and  crystallizes  in  colorless  needles,  which, 
owing  to  their  sparing  solubility,  are  tasteless ; they  melt  at  165.5°  C.  (330°  F.).  The  ortho-com- 
pound is  more  freely  soluble  in  alcohol,  and  melts  at  99°  C. 

Benzanilid,  C6H5NH.C7H50,  or  yhenylhenzamid , was  discovered  by  Gerhardt  (1845),  and  is 
produced  by  the  action  of  benzoic  anhydride,  benzoic  acid,  or  of  benzoyl  chloride  upon  aniline, 
and  crystallization  from  alcohol.  It  forms  small  white  scales  of  a pearly  lustre,  inodorous,  taste- 
less, insoluble  in  water,  and  fusible  at  about  162°  C. 

Methylacetanilid,  C6H5NCILvC2H30,  has  been  used  under  the  name  of  exalgin.  It  was  first 
prepared  by  A.  W.  Hofmann  (1874),  and  may  be  obtained  by  warming  monomethylaniline  with 
half  a molecule  of  acetylchloride,  and  crystallized  from  hot  water  to  remove  the  methylaniline 
hydrochloride.  By  acting  with  methyl  iodide  upon  sodium  acetanilid,  sodium  iodide  and  methyl- 
acetanilid  are  formed.  The  latter  crystallizes  in  colorless  needles  or  prisms,  which  are  inodorous 
and  tasteless,  and  melt  in  the  air  at  102°  C.  (215.6°  F.),  but  under  water  at  98°  C.  It  is  neutral 
to  test-paper,  and  is  freely  soluble  in  alcohol,  chloroform,  carbon  disulphide,  and  in  boiling  water. 
It  requires  about  60  parts  of  cold  water  or  10  parts  of  ether  for  solution.  On  heating  it  with 
potassium  hydrate,  and  then  with  chloroform,  as  directed  above  for  acetanilid,  the  disagreeable 
odor  of  isonitril  is  not  produced,  but  a faint  rather  pleasant  odor  is  observed.  Methylacetanilid 
boils  on  being  heated  to  245°  C.  (473°  F.),  and  finally  evaporates  without  leaving  any  residue  ; 
its  aqueous  solution  is  not  precipitated  by  silver  nitrate. 

Action  and  Uses. — Experimental  and  clinical  observations  agree  in  showing  that 
acetanilid  powerfully  depresses  the  nervous  system  and  the  heart,  causing  coldness, 
cyanosis,  collapse,  and  even  death,  while  affecting  febrile  temperature  but  slightly. 
Cohn  and  Hepp  estimated  the  antipyretic  power  of  acetanilid  as  being  four  times  greater 
than  that  of  antipyrin.  They  found  that  from  Gm.  0.25-1  (grs.  3-15)  at  a single 
dose,  and  repeated  to  the  extent  of  Gm.  2 (30  gr.)  in  twenty-four  hours,  should  be  ad- 
ministered, according  to  the  grade  of  the  fever,  the  condition  of  the  patient,  etc.  They 
believed  that  its  action  became  manifest  within  an  hour,  reached  its  height  in  about  four 
hours,  and  lasted  from  six  to  eight  hours.  A single  dose  sometimes  sufficed  to  restore 
the  normal  temperature.  This  process  was  generally  accompanied  by  redness  of  the  skin 
and  moderate  sweating.  As  in  the  case  of  antipyrin,  the  reaction  was  sometimes  attended 
by  chilliness.  As  the  temperature  fell  the  pulse  became  less  frequent  and  gained  in  ten- 
sion. According  to  them,  the  medicine  produced  neither  nausea,  vomiting,  nor  diarrhoea. 


10 


A CETA  NIL  ID  UM. 


During  the  apyrexia,  in  certain  cases,  urgent  thirst  and  profuse  diuresis  occurred.  In 
some,  also,  cyanosis  of  the  face  and  hands  appeared  in  the  remission.  These  conclusions 
were,  in  the  main,  confirmed  by  Lepine,  Mouisset,  Kruger,  Weill,  Weinstein,  Edemsky, 
Peirce,  Hawkins,  Crombie,  and  many  others.  Weill  placed  the  preparation  at  the  head 
of  antipyretics  {Centralb.  f.  Med .,  v.  634),  saying  that  it  tends  first  to  stimulate,  and 
then  to  depress,  the  nervous  system,  causing  the  temperature  to  fall  and  a tendency  to 
collapse,  as  well  as  general  analgesia  and  anaesthesia.  In  general,  a dose  of  Gm.  0.25 
(4  grs.)  sufficed  to  reduce  the  febrile  temperature  by  three  degrees.  Hidowitz  {Med.  News, 
li.  543)  exalted  its  virtues  in  the  febrile  affections  of  children.  Cohn  and  Hepp  ( Cen - 
tralb.f.  Tlier.,  v.  59),  like  Weill,  proclaimed  it  to  be  the  best  representative  of  the  group 
of  medicines  to  which  it  belongs,  as  reliable,  relatively  free  from  danger,  and  efficient  in 
small  doses.  Way  and  several  others  found  it  a useful  palliative  in  typhoid  fever  {Med. 
News , lii.  11).  But  this  opinion  is  by  no  means  held  by  all.  Dujardin-Beaumetz  rejected 
acetanilid  altogether  from  the  treatment  of  the  diseases  from  which  it  obtained  its  name  of 
antifebrin  {Bull,  de  Therap.,  cxii.  211  ; cxiii.  103).  He  dwelt  on  its  tendency  in  fever  to 
occasion  cyanosis  and  excessive  depression  of  temperature,  although  in  non-febrile  affec- 
tions these  effects  are  not  produced  unless  the  doses  are  excessive.  Other  observers  have 
remarked  that  it  sometimes  entirely  fails  to  exhibit  antipyretic  virtues  ( University  Med. 
Mag.,  i.  228). 

In  articular  rheumatism  the  value  of  this  medicine  is  not  more  clearly  defined  than  in 
fevers.  There  can  be  no  doubt  that  it  generally  palliates,  and  sometimes  entirely  neutral- 
izes, the  pain  of  the  acute  disease,  while  it  reduces  the  fever.  Beise  regarded  it  as  less 
prompt  and  efficient  than  salicylic  acid,  but  free  from  the  unpleasant  effects  of  the  latter 
{Centralbl.  f.  Med.,  v.  12)  ; Eisenhart  made  a similar  comparison  bstween  it  and  sodium 
salicylate  {ibid.,  v.  181);  and  Dujardin-Beaumetz  agreed  with  them  in  saying  that  it  is 
less  apt  to  disturb  the  brain  than  salicylic  acid.  Weinstein,  and  also  Demme,  have 
expressed  analogous  opinions  {ibid.,  v.  634;  vi.  299);  and  Sarda  concluded  that  acetani- 
lid is  inferior  to  antipyrin  in  acute,  but  not  in  chronic,  rheumatism  {Bull,  de  Therap., 
cxiv.  433). 

The  pains  of  certain  neuralgic  affections  appear  to  be  more  readily  controlled  by 
acetanilid  than  even  those  of  rheumatism  : they  are  the  neuralgiae  due  to  an  organic 
cause,  and  notably  to  alterations  of  the  spinal  marrow.  According  to  Dujardin-Beau- 
metz, none  of  the  objections  to  acetanilid  in  fevers  apply  to  it  in  neuralgic  affections  {Bull, 
de  Therap.,  cxiii.  103).  Similar  observations  have  been  made  by  Dulacska,  Biro,  Fischer, 
and  others,  Fischer  noted  that  the  remedy  succeeded  best  when  the  pains  were  parox- 
ysmal. He  gave  Gm.  0.25  (gr.  4.)  at  a dose.  Demieville  confirmed  these  results,  and 
added  that  the  medicine  was  efficient  in  the  pain  of  senile  gangrene  and  cancer  { Therap. 
Gaz.,  xi.  698).  Weinstein  {Cent.  f.  Therap.,  v.  634),  Seifert  {ibid.,  v.  563),  Leidy  {N. 
York  Med.  Jour.,  Oct.  29, 1887),  Ott  {Centralbl.  /.  Therap.,  v.  13),  Fischer  {ibid.,  vi.  611), 
and  Fraser  {Practition.,  xliv.  291)  gave  similar  testimony.  In  no  case,  however,  did  it 
prevent  the  recurrence  of  the  paroxysms  of  pain,  and  the  general  conclusion  agreed  with 
Ferreira’s  {Bull,  et  Mem.  Soc.  ther.,  1888,  p.  171),  that  in  these  conditions  it  is  inferior  to 
antipyrin.  Hirsch’s  summary  appears  to  state  the  truth  of  the  matter:  “It  seems  to 
be  useful  in  diffused  headache,  but  is  useless  in  rheumatic  neuralgia  and  in  sympathetic 
paralytic  hemicrania.  It  acts  well  in  the  neuralgia  of  tabes  dorsalis  ” {Centralb.  f.  Med., 
vi.  724).  An  exceptional  case  is  that  reported  by  Dr.  Flint  {Med.  Record,  xxxiv. 
646),  in  which  a very  obstinate  sciatica  was  cured  with  heroic  doses  of  the  medicine,  40 
to  50  grains  in  the  course  of  four  hours.  It  does  not  appear  to  relieve  insomnia  as  a 
direct  effect,  but  only  by  suppressing  the  influences  that  prevent  sleep.  In  this  way  it 
procures  repose  in  fevers  and  in  mania  a potu  and  other  forms  of  maniacal  excitement.  In 
like  manner  it  relieves  congestive  headache.  In  exceptional  cases  it  has  palliated  or  sus- 
pended the  paroxysms  of  epilepsy , and  in  the  treatment  of  whooping  cough  and  other 
forms  of  reflex  cough  is  thought  to  be  equal  to  antipyrin.  It  has  been  found  useful  in 
phthisis  to  control  or  palliate  the  hectic  fever,  and  thereby  lessen  the  exhausting  effects 
of  this  incident  of  the  disease  {Med.  Record,  xxxi.  426  ; Centralbl . f.  Ther.,  v.  119;  Med. 
News,  lii.  99  ; Therap.  Gaz.,  xi.  162). 

Administration. — The  average  dose  of  acetanilid  as  an  antipyretic  is  Gm.  0.30  (gr.  5) ; 
as  an  anodyne,  Gm.  0.6-0.13  (gr.  1-2).  It  should  be  dissolved  in  a small  quantity  of  alcohol, 
and  then  diluted  with  water.  It  may  be  repeated  at  intervals  of  about  four  hours  or  less, 
according  to  its  effects.  To  counteract  its  poisonous  effects,  it  has  been  recommended  to 
evacuate  the  bowels  with  castor  oil,  to  stimulate  the  skin  by  heat  and  friction,  and  to  admin- 
ister coffee  and  injections  of  aether.  Alcohol,  except  in  very  small  doses,  is  not  advised. 


ACETONUM. 


11 


Benzanilid  has  been  employed  by  Kahn  in  diseases  of  children.  He  found  it  a very 
efficient  antithermic.  Its  general  action  resembled  that  of  acetanilid,  fcal though  the  reac- 
tion following  its  use  took  place  more  slowly.  No  cyanotic  effect  was  noted,  but  in  one 
case  there  was  a rubeoloid  eruption.  The  pulse  and  respiration  rates  fell  along  with  the 
temperature,  and  by  use  the  activity  of  the  medicine  declined.  The  dose  for  children  of 
from  one  to  three  years  was  Gm.  0. 1-0.2  (gr.  1^—3)  ; for  children  from  4-8  years,  Gm. 
0. 2-0.4  (gr.  3-6).  The  largest  quantity  giyen  in  a day  was  Gm.  3.2  (gr.  48).  It  was 
administered  in  powder  ( Centralbl.  f Ther.,  vii.  53). 

Methylacetanilid  (exalgin)  is  an  efficient  analgesic,  especially  for  purely  neuralgic 
pains,  and  has  proved  useful  in  chorea.  Among  the  toxical  effects  of  it  have  been  noted 
ringing  in  the  ears,  confusion  of  sight,  vomiting,  headache,  jaundice,  cyanosis,  and  mus- 
cular spasm.  Dose,  Gm.  0.06-0.20  (gr.  j-iij)  three  times  a day. 

Antikaiinia,  a proprietary  medicine,  is  composed  essentially  of  acetanilid.  A case 
of  death  preceded  by  delirium,  unconsciousness,  has  been  attributed  to  a dose  of  24  grs. 
of  this  compound  (Med.  News,  lix.  547). 

Antinervin  is  also  essentially  a compound,  of  50  per  cent,  of  acetanilid  with  25  per 
cent,  each  of  ammonium  bromide  and  salicylic  acid  (Squibb).  It  has  been  used  as  a 
nervous  sedative  and  analgesic. 

Exodyne  and  Phenolid  are  also  proprietary  compounds,  and  have  essentially  the 
same  composition  as  the  preceding. 

ACETONUM. — Acetone. 

Spiritus  (s.  jEther)  pyroaceticus. — Pyroacetic  spirit  or  ether , E. ; Acetone , Ether  ( Esprit ) 
pyroacetique,  Fr.  ; Aceton , Essiggeist,  Mesitalkohol , G.  ; Chetone , Metilacetone , It. 

Formula  C3H60.  Molecular  weight  57.87. 

Formation  and  Preparation. — Acetone  is  formed  on  the  dry  distillation  of 
wood,  of  acetates,  citric  acid,  and,  iu  the  presence  of  lime,  from  sugar  and  other  carbo- 
hydrates. It  is  obtained  nearly  pure  by  the  dry  distillation  of  barium  acetate  (Liebig),  but 
is  usually  prepared  from  calcium  acetate  or  from  a mixture  of  4 parts  of  crystallized  acetate 
of  lead  and  1 of  burnt  lime ; the  distillate  is  neutralized  with  dry  sodium  carbonate, 
treated  with  calcium  chloride,  and  purified  by  fractional  distillation  over  lime. 

Properties. — It  is  a thin,  colorless  liquid,  which  when  ignited  burns  with  a luminous, 
non-sooty  flame.  It  has  a peculiar  ethereal  somewhat  mint-like  odor,  and  a refreshing  but 
very  pungent  and  sweetish  taste.  Its  density  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  is  .8008 ; it  boils  at 
56.5°  C.  (133.7°  F.).  It  is  soluble  in  all  proportions  in  water,  alcohol,  ether,  volatile 
oils,  and  most  compound  ethers,  dissolves  gun-cotton,  camphor,  many  resins,  including 
copal,  and  fats,  and  forms  crystalline  compounds  with  the  alkali  disulphites.  Most  of 
the  salts  soluble  in  alcohol  are  insoluble  in  acetone,  which  separates  even  from  a concen- 
trated aqueous  solution  of  calcium  chloride. 

Composition. — The  empirical  formula  has  been  given  above.  Constitutionally  it  is 
dimethyl-ketone , CO.CH3.CH3. 

Impurities. — The  principal  impurities  met  with  in  acetone  are  alcohol  and  water, 
which  impart  a higher  specific  gravity  ; the  former  may  be  recognized  by  the  addition  of 
iodine,  followed  by  potassa  solution,  when  iodoform  will  be  separated.  Water,  if  present, 
will  liquefy  a fragment  of  calcium  chloride,  but  the  same  salt  powdered,  according  to 
Hlasiwetz  (1850),  will  form  with  acetone  a solid  compound  which  is  decomposed  by 
water.  Empyreumatic  products  present  in  acetone  will  cause  an  opalescence  on  dilution 
with  water. 

Allied  Compounds. — Acetal,  C6Hj402  or  CTI3CH(C2H50)2 ; mol.  weight  117.74.  It  is  formed  on 
the  oxidation  of  alcohol  by  manganese  dioxide  and  sulphuric  acid,  or  by  platinum  black  or  by 
chlorine,  and  is  purified  by  fractional  distillation  and  by  treatment  with  calcium  chloride  and 
potassa.  It  is  a thin,  colorless  liquid,  of  an  agreeable  alcohol-like  odor,  a refreshing  taste,  and 
the  specific  gravity  .831  at  20°  C.  (68°  F.).  It  boils  at  104°  C.  (219.2°  F.),  dissolves  in  alcohol 
and  ether  in  all  proportions,  but  is  rather  sparingly  soluble  in  water.  In  contact  with  air  and 
by  oxidizing  agents  it  is  readily  converted  into  aldehyde  and  finally  into  acetic  acid. 

Acetophenone,  or  P henyhn ethyl-ketone,  C5H5.CO.CH3,  introduced  into  medicine  as  hypnone , is 
formed  by  the  action  of  zinc-methyl  upon  benzoyl  chloride,  and  was  first  prepared  by  Friedell 
(1857)  by  the  dry  distillation  of  a mixture  of  molecular  weights  of  calcium  benzoate  and  acetate, 
and  subjecting  the  product  to  fractional  distillation  for  the  separation  of  acetone,  benzene,  and 
other  compounds.  It  crystallizes  readily  in  white  laminae,  which,  if  pure,  melt  at  20.5°  C.  (68.9° 
F.)  (Staedel,  1880).  Liquid  hypnone  is  colorless,  mobile,  very  refrangent,  has  a persistent  odor 
of  bitter  almond  and  orange,  and  a pungent  taste.  It  is  not  inflammable,  but  intensifies  the 
combustion  of  substances  impregnated  with  it.  It  boils  at  200°  C.  (392°  F.),  has  the  specific 


12 


ACETTJM. 


gravity  1.032,  remains  for  some  time  suspended  in  water  in  the  form  of  globules,  is  insoluble  in 
water,  sparingly  soluble  in  glycerin,  and  freely  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  chloroform,  benzene,  and 
fixed  oils.  It  is  not  affected  by  cold  sulphuric  acid,  hydrochloric  acid,  or  ferric  chloride,  is  col- 
ored yellow  by  nitric  acid,  dissolves  iodine  and  bromine  freely  and  with  the  development  of  heat, 
and  by  chromic  acid  is  converted  into  benzoic  acid  and  carbon  dioxide.  From  38  to  40  drops  of 
hypnone  weigh  one  gram. 

Syrup  of  Hypnone.- — Hypnone  1 drop,  alcohol  1 Gm.,  syrup  of  orange-flowers  6 Gm.  (Vigier). 

Elixir  of  Hypnone. — Hypnone  1 drop,  alcohol  3 Gm.,  syrup  of  peppermint  3 Gm. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  preparation  was  originally  employed  in  chronic  pulmon- 
ary ajfections  to  allay  cough  and  diminish  expectoration ; but  it  has  long  been  dis- 
used for  these  purposes.  It  is  asserted  to  act,  not  as  an  anaesthetic,  but  as  a soporific 
only  ; but  the  better  opinion  is  that,  while  its  anaesthetic  action  is  comparatively  feeble, 
its  intoxicating  operation  is  decided.  It  has  been  recommended  as  an  anthelmintic  and 
in  rheumatism  and  gout.  It  may  be  prescribed  in  doses  of  Gm.  1.0-1.30  (15  or  20  drops), 
dissolved  in  spirit  of  nitrous  ether.  It  may  also  be  used  by  inhalation  from  a watery  solu- 
tion, either  atomized  or  diffused  by  heat. 

Acetal,  according  to  Yon  Mering,  acts  first  on  the  brain,  causing  a gradual  loss  of  con- 
sciousness, and  then  upon  the  spinal  marrow,  arresting  respiration  before  the  heart.  When 
fatal  it  kills  by  asphyxia.  In  doses  of  Gm.  4-12  (sj-^hj)  he  found  its  hypnotic  effects 
certain  and  not  followed  by  disagreeable  feelings.  Stoltenhoff  made  similar  observations ; 
but  Berger  and  Leyden  saw  only  unsatisfactory  results  ( Amer . Jour.  Med.  Sci.,  Oct.  1883, 
p.  556),  and  Leubuscher  observed  no  good  and  various  evil  effects  of  its  use  ( Therapeut . 
Gaz.,  ix.  187).  Hiller  reports  that  its  internal  administration  is  not  easy,  since  its  taste 
is  acrid  and  burning,  and,  moreover,  that  it  is  six  times  as  weak  as  chloral  hydrate,  act- 
ing as  a hypnotic  only  in  doses  of  from  Gm.  8-12  (2  to  3 drachms).  On  the  day  after 
taking  it  patients  have  complained  of  depression,  heaviness  of  the  limbs,  and  nausea  ( Zeit - 
schrift  f klin.  3Ted.,  vi.  492). 

Acetophenone,  received  from  Dujardin-Beaumetz  the  name  of  hypnone.  He  regarded 
it  as  a pure  hypnotic,  and  but  slightly  anodyne  in  the  dose  of  6 or  8 drops.  It  cannot 
be  relied  upon  where  pain  exists,  and  hardly  when  wakefulness  is  due  to  nervous  excite- 
ment. Further  objections  to  its  use  are  its  offensive  taste,  the  smell  it  imparts  to  the 
breath,  and  the  disorder  of  the  stomach  it  is  apt  to  occasion.  It  may  be  given  in  capsules 
containing  Gm.  0.06-0.03  (tty-v). 


ACETUM,  Br.,  P.  A P . G.— Vinegar. 

Acetum  crudum. — Vinaigre , Fr. ; Essig , G. ; Aceto,  It.  ; Vinagre,  Sp. 

Production. — Vinegar  is  a dilute  acetic  acid,  obtained  by  the  acetic  fermentation 
of  alcoholic  liquids ; the  materials  from  which  it  is  prepared  influence  its  color,  and  to  a 
considerable  extent  also  its  odor  and  taste. 

Wine,  cider,  beer,  and  similar  liquids  not  containing  too  large  an  amount  of  alcohol, 
when  exposed  to  the  atmosphere,  turn  sour  in  consequence  of  the  oxidation  of  alcohol 
to  acetic  acid  ; C2H60  + 02  yields  C2H402  + H20.  This  acetification  is  accomplished  in 
partly-filled  casks  having  a small  opening  at  the  top,  and  requires  several  weeks  or 
months,  or  even  about  two  years,  to  be  complete,  according  to  the  temperature,  which  is 
most  suitably  kept  between  20°  and  35°  C.  (68°  and  95°  F.).  The  process  of  oxidation 
is  effected  by  Mycoderma  (Ulvina,  Kiitzing ) aceti,  Pasteur , consisting  of  elliptic  bacteria. 
The  acid  liquid  thus  obtained  requires  clarification,  which  is  effected  either  by  allowing 
it  time  to  settle  or  by  transferring  it  to  other  casks  containing  wood  shavings.  In  this 
manner  wine,  cider , malt,  and  beer  vinegars  are  made. 

Vinegar  is  extensively  made  by  the  so-called  German  or  quick  vinegar  process , for 
which  the  simple  apparatus  suggested  by  Wagenmann  is  employed.  This  consists  of 
several  straight-sided  casks  6 to  9 feet  high,  having,  a few  inches  above  the  bottom,  a 
false  bottom  or  perforated  diaphragm,  upon  which  is  packed  a layer,  2 to  3 feet  in 
thickness,  of  fresh  beech-wood  shavings  which  have  been  previously  steeped  in  vinegar, 
whereby  the  mycoderma  is  introduced.  Several  inches  below  the  top  another  perforated 
diaphragm  is  inserted,  or,  in  place  of  it,  the  cask  is  covered  with  a well-fitting  tub 
having  a perforated  bottom.  The  liquid,  containing  from  6 to  10  per  cent,  alcohol,  is 
placed  upon  the  upper  diaphragm  ; its  flow  is  regulated  by  means  of  wooden  pins  inserted 
into  the  perforations,  and  it  is  thus  compelled  to  trickle  through  the  shavings,  the  atmo- 
sphere being  admitted  through  a number  of  holes  bored  through  the  side  of  the  cask 
immediately  above  the  lower  diaphragm,  and  by  several  tubes  passing  through  the  upper 


ACETUM. 


13 


diaphragm  and  above  the  surface  of  the  alcoholic  liquid.  The  partly  acetified  liquid  is 
drawn  off  from  below  the  lower  false  bottom,  and  transferred  to  another  similarly  pre- 
pared cask,  until  the  whole  of  the  alcohol  has  been  converted  into  acetic  acid.  During 
all  this  time  the  change  of  air  in  the  room  and  its  temperature  (about  20Q  C.)  must  be 
carefully  attended  to,  as  otherwise  the  oxidation  may  become  too  rapid  and  the  heat 
within  the  casks  too  high.  At  and  below  7.2°  C.  (45°  F.)  little  or  no  acetic  acid  is  pro- 
duced. The  process  is  finished  in  from  three  to  fifteen  days. 

Properties. — Made  by  the  German  process,  vinegar  generally  contains  some  alde- 
hyde and  alcohol,  which  are  usually  absent  if  the  production  has  been  effected  by  the 
slow  oxidation  in  casks.  The  sensible  properties  of  vinegar  are  affected  to  a much  larger 
extent  by  the  material  from  which  it  has  been  obtained.  Malt  vinegar  is  largely  made  in 
Great  Britain  from  beerwort  or  from  the  fermented  solution  of  malt ; it  is  of  a more  or 
less  deep-brown  color.  Beer  vinegar , made  from  stale  beer,  has  the  bitter  taste  of  the 
hops.  Upon  evaporation  these  varieties  of  vinegar  yield  about  2.5  per  cent,  of  extract, 
while  wine  vinegar  ( acetum  vini ) yields  only  about  1.5  per  cent.  Vinaigre  blanc,  F.  Cod., 
prepared  from  white  wine,  is  used  in  France.  Cider  vinegar , which  is  much  employed 
in  the  United  States,  is  made  from  cider,  and  contains  malic  acid.  Common  vinegar , 
made  from  diluted  whiskey,  has  the  flavor  of  the  latter  to  some  extent,  and  contains  the 
salts  of  the  water  used  in  its  manufacture,  the  residue  amounting  to  about  0.3  per  cent. 

The  color  of  vinegar  varies  from  yellowish  to  brown,  and  its  specific  gravity  between 
1.003  (. P . A.)  and  1.018  ( Br .)  It  has  an  agreeable  acidulous  odor,  differing  from  that 
of  diluted  acetic  acid  by  the  presence  of  some  ethers,  principally  acetic  ether.  By  exposure 
to  the  air  it  undergoes  putrefaction  and  becomes  muddy.  It  should  contain  between  5 
and  6 per  cent,  of  acetic  acid.  445.4  grains  by  weight  require  at  least  402  grain-measures 
of  the  volumetric  solution  of  soda  for  neutralization,  indicating  5.4  per  cent,  of  real 
acetic  acid  (Pr.).  5 Cc.  of  vinegar  require  for  neutralization  not  less  than  50  Cc.  of 

decinormal  alkali  solution  (P.  A.);  or  10  Cc.  of  vinegar  require  10  Cc.  of  normal  potassa 
solution  (P.  6r.),  indicating  6 per  cent,  of  acetic  acid. 

Impurities  and  Adulterations. — Poisonous  metallic  salts,  like  tin,  lead,  and 
copper,  which  may  be  present  as  accidental  impurities,  are  detected  by  the  dark  colora- 
tion or  precipitate  occurring  with  hydrogen  sulphide ; moreover,  copper  would  be  pre- 
cipitated upon  a bright  iron  spatula  kept  in  the  vinegar  for  a short  time  ; lead,  if  present 
will  yield  a white  precipitate  with  sulphuric  acid,  and  a yellow  one  with  potassium  iodide. 
Acrid  substances,  such  as  capsicum,  pepper,  pellitory,  ginger,  etc.,  which  may  have  been 
added  to  impart  artificial  strength,  are  recognized  by  the  taste  after  the  vinegar  has  been 
neutralized  with  an  alkali,  or  after  it  has  been  evaporated;  hence  the  extract  left  on 

evaporation  must  not  have  an  acrid  taste,  and  must  yield  an  ash  having  an  alkaline 

reaction  (P.  Gi).  The  latter  test  indicates  the  absence  of  adulterations  with  free  acids. 
In  testing  for  mineral  acids  it  must  be  remembered  that  crude  (but  not  distilled)  vinegar 
is  likely  to  contain  sulphates,  chlorides,  and  occasionally  even  nitrates,  derived  from  the 
water  which  has  been  used  in  its  manufacture.  The  pharmacopoeias  indicate  the  allow- 
able limits  of  such  salts  as  follows:  A fluidounce  of  vinegar,  mixed  with  10  minims  of 
test  solution  of  barium  chloride,  yields  a filtrate  giving  no  precipitate  on  the  further 
addition  of  the  test  liquid  ( Br. ).  20  Cc.  of  vinegar,  mixed  with  0.5  Cc.  of  barium- 

nitrate  test  solution,  and  1 Cc.  of  decinormal  silver  solution,  yield  a filtrate  free  from 

sulphate  and  chloride  ; on  carefully  pouring  upon  a mixture  of  2 Cc.  each  of  vinegar 
and  sulphuric  acid  1 Cc.  of  ferrous  sulphate  solution,  a brown  zone  should  not  be  pro- 
duced at  the  point  of  contact  between  the  two  layers  (P.  G.).  This  last  test  proves  the 
absence  of  nitrates ; obviously,  it  is  applicable  only  to  pale-colored  vinegars.  Tests  for 
recognizing  free  sulphuric  acid  in  vinegar  were  recommended  by  J.  T.  King  (1872),  W. 
C.  Young  (1877),  J.  C.  Wharton  (1882)  and  others.  According  to  Chiappe  (1882),  a 
very  simple  test  for  free  mineral  acids  is  an  aqueous  solution  of  methyl-aniline-violet  or 
Paris  violet  (1  : 1000),  the  color  of  which  is  not  affected  by  organic  acids,  but  is  changed 
to  ultramarine  blue  by  inorganic  acids.  The  presence  of  aldehyde  in  vinegar  is  indicated 
by  the  brown  color  produced  in  the  first  portion  of  the  distillate  with  an  excess  of 
potassa  solution.  Vinegar  which  has  been  prepared  or  kept  in  oaken  barrels  contains  a 
little  tannin,  and  acquires  a black  color  with  ferric  salts. 

Allied  Compounds  and  Derivatives. — Acetum  destillatum  s.  A.  purum. — Distilled  vinegar, 
E. ; Vinaigre  distille,  Fr. ; Destillirter  Essig,  G. — Distil  vinegar  from  a glass  retort  until  about 
three-fourths  have  passed  over.  It  is  colorless,  leaves  no  residue  on  evaporation,  is  not  colored 
bv  excess  of  potassa  (absence  of  aldehyde),  and  is  free  from  mineral  acids.  It  is  nearly  identical 
with  the  diluted  acetic  acid. 


14 


ACETUM. 


Acetum  aromaticum. — Aromatic  vinegar,  E. ; Yinaigre  (Ac<?tole)  aromatique,  Fr. ; Aroma- 
tiseher  Essig,  G. — Volatile  oils  of  lavender,  rosemary,  juniper,  peppermint,  and  cinnamon  cassia, 
of  each  1 part ; oils  of  lemon  and  cloves,  of  each  2 parts  ; alcohol,  450  p. ; acetic  acid  (sp.  gr. 
1.041),  650  p. ; water,  1900  parts.  Dissolve  the  oils  in  the  alcohol,  add  the  acid,  then  the  water, 
set  aside  for  eight  days,  frequently  agitating,  and  finally  filter. — P.  G.  Compared  with  the 
formula  of  the  previous  edition,  which  is  also  that  of  the  National  Formulary,  the  solvents  have 
been  increased  from  1950  to  3000  parts,  thus  ensuring  a more  complete  solution  of  the  volatile 
oils.  It  is  a clear  and  colorless  liquid,  of  an  aromatic  acetous  odor,  miscible  with  water  in  all 
proportions  without  becoming  turbid.  (See  also  Acidum  Aceticum.)  The  corresponding 
preparation  of  the  Fr.  Cod.  is  made  from  a tincture  of  fresh  herbs  and  has  a pale  reddish 
color. 

Acetum  antisepticum. — Antiseptic  vinegar,  E. ; Vinaigre  (Acetole)  antiseptic,  V.  des  quatre 
voleurs.  Fr. ; Vierrauberessig,  G. — Absinth,  Roman  wormwood,  peppermint,  rosemary,  rue,  sage, 
and  lavender,  each  15  Gm. ; calamus,  cinnamon,  cloves,  nutmeg,  and  garlic,  each  2 Gm. ; vinegar, 
1000  Gm. ; macerate  for  ten  days,  expresSj  add  camphor  4 Gm.  dissolved  in  glacial  acetic  acid 
15  Gm.,  and  filter. — Fr.  Cod.  A simpler  formula  directing  peppermint,  rosemary,  and  sage,  each 
25  parts;  angelica,  zedoary,  and  cloves,  each  2 parts,  and  vinegar,  1000  p.,  is  recognized  by  P. 
A.  as  acetum  aromaticum.  Acetoaromatico  (A.  antisettico ),  F.  It.,  contains  camphor  and  orange- 
leaves. 

Action  and  Uses. — It  promotes  digestion  by  stimulating  the  salivary  and  gastric 
secretions,  while  it  quickens  the  softening  and  digestion  of  crude  food,  and  allays  thirst 
and  fever  ; but  in  excess  it  impairs  digestion  and  causes  diarrhoea,  thereby  interfering  with 
nutrition.  Its  power  of  preserving  animal  and  vegetable  substances  immersed  in  it  (Davy, 
Researches , etc.,  ii.  376)  probably  led  to  the  notion  that  it  possesses  special  virtues  in  the 
falsely-called  putrid  fevers,  and  especially  that  it  prevents  contagion.  But  these  opinions 
are  groundless.  In  such  affections,  however,  the  use  of  vinegar  as  a lotion  is  useful  by 
the  evaporation  of  the  liquid  producing  a refreshing  sense  of  coolness.  Possibly,  also, 
its  stimulant  action  upon  the  skin  may  promote  a salutary  diaphoresis.  It  is  an  error  to 
suppose,  as  the  ancients  did,  that  vinegar  is  an  antidote  to  the  poisonous  effects  of  narcot- 
ics ; its  stimulant  action  may  be  advantageous  when  the  poison  has  been  removed  from 
the  system  and  its  direct  operation  has  ceased.  In  this  respect,  however,  it  is  greatly 
inferior  to  ammonia,  coffee,  and  even  alcohol.  When  given  after  the  ingestion  of  caustic 
alkalies  or  earths,  or  of  the  carbonates  of  these  substances,  it  unites  with  them,  and,  form- 
ing innocuous  acetates,  arrests  their  corrosive  action.  Vinegar  and  dilute  acetic  acid 
have  been  used  beneficially  in  the  treatment  of  lead  colic  after  the  bowels  had  been  moved 
by  purgatives.  Vinegar  is  an  old  popular  remedy  for  diarrhoea  and  dysentery , and  it  has 
even  been  used  with  alleged  success  in  cholera.  More  than  half  a century  ago  large 
enemas  of  diluted  vinegar  were  believed  to  be  efficacious  in  dysentery  (Richter,  Ausfurlich , 
Arzneim.,  iv.  134).  Engelmann  found  its  application  in  diphtheria  more  efficient  than  that 
of  carbolic  acid  (. Archives  gen.,  Dec.  1886,  p.  741).  The  stimulant  action  of  strong  vinegar 
or  dilute  acetic  acid  is  usefully  employed  by  snuffing  the  fumes  of  these  liquids,  to  which 
camphor  and  various  aromatics  have  been  added.  This  expedient  is  useful  in  relieving 
nervous  headache , faintness , drowsiness , commencing  coryza , etc.,  but  is  less  efficient  than  a 
similar  application  of  ammonia.  Vinegar,  distilled  or  not,  is  a very  useful  agent  for  arrest- 
ing haemorrhage , especially  from  the  nose,  stomach,  rectum,  and  uterus.  It  should,  if  possi- 
ble, be  applied  directly  to  the  source  of  the  bleeding,  as  in  post-partum  haemorrhage  by 
expressing  vinegar  from  a sponge  introduced  into  the  cavity  of  the  uterus.  At  the  same 
time,  compresses  saturated  with  vinegar  and  water  should  be  laid  upon  the  abdomen.  It 
is,  however,  alleged  to  be  efficient  when  taken  by  the  mouth  in  wine-glassful  doses.  Vine- 
egar  is  popularly  employed  to  prevent  discoloration  of  the  skin  after  injuries  of  the  integ- 
ument, and  to  retard  the  redness  and  swelling  and  allay  the  pain  of  local  inflammations. 
This  method  is  particularly  useful  in  superficial  burns  and  in  preventing  suppuration  of 
the  mamma.  A weak  solution  of  vinegar  may  be  used  to  limit  the  action  of  particles  of 
lime  in  the  eye.  Lotions  of  vinegar  check  colliquative  perspiration,  and  procure  a refresh- 
ing coolness  when  the  skin  is  hot  in  fevers,  and  allay  headache  and  delirium  when  applied 
to  the  forehead.  Enemas  of  vinegar  are  sometimes  used  to  destroy  ascarides  of  the  rec- 
tum ; and  lotions  of  the  same  are  said  to  be  efficient  in  destroying  pediculi. 

The  dose  of  vinegar  is  Gm.  4-16  (fsj-fgxvj)  in  from  2 to  4 parts  of  water.  An  acid- 
ulated drink  may  be  made  with  Gm.  64  (f  Sij)  of  vinegar  in  Gm.  1000  (a  quart)  of  water. 
By  enema  vinegar  may  be  given  to  the  extent  of  Gm.  30-130  (f^j— f Siy)-  A lotion  may 
be  made  with  1 part  of  vinegar  and  3 or  4 of  water.  The  doses  of  distilled  vinegar  do 
not  differ  materially  from  the  above. 


ACETUM  CANTHA  RID  IS. — OPII. 


15 


ACETUM  CANTHARIDIS,  Br.— Vinegar  of  Cantharides. 

Vinaigre  cantharide , Fr.;  Canthariden-JEssig,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Cantharides  in  powder,  2 ounces  ; Glacial  Acetic  Acid,  2 
fluidounces;  Acetic  Acid,  sufficient  for  20  fluidounces.  Mix  13  fluidounces  of  the  acetic 
acid  with  the  glacial  acetic  acid,  and  digest  the  cantharides  in  this  mixture  for  two  hours 
at  a temperature  of  93.4°  C.  (200°  F.) ; then  transfer  the  ingredients  after  they  have 
cooled  to  a percolator,  and  when  the  liquid  ceases  to  pass  pour  5 fluidounces  of  acetic 
acid  over  the  residuum  in  the  apparatus.  As  soon  as  the  percolation  is  complete,  subject 
the  contents  of  the  percolator  to  pressure,  filter  the  product,  mix  the  liquids,  and  add 
sufficient  acetic  acid  to  make  1 pint  (Imp.  meas.). — Br. 

At  the  elevated  temperature  directed  in  this  process  the  cantharidin,  with  various 
extractive  matters,  is  readily  dissolved  by  the  acetic  acid,  and  after  cooling  remains  in 
solution.  The  specific  gravity  is  about  1.060. 

Action  and  Uses. — Vinegar  of  cantharides  is  irritating  to  the  skin  by  means 
of  both  its  constituents.  Like  other  strong  liquid  vesicants,  it  is  especially  appro- 
priate when  the  surface  to  be  blistered  is  uneven  and  of  very  limited  extent,  and  when 
it  is  an  object  to  produce  vesication  rapidly.  It  is  perhaps  more  painful  than  other  vesi- 
cating preparations  of  cantharides.  It  should  be  applied  with  a brush  in  several  succes- 
sive coats,,  according  to  the  delicacy  of  the  skin  and  the  effect  desired,  and  then  dressed 
with  some  simple  ointment  upon  soft  lint  or  cotton  wadding.  Vesication  usually  occurs 
within  two  or  three  hours.  It  is  very  suitable  for  blistering  the  skin  over  the  superficial 
portions  of  nerves  in  neuralgia , as  was  first  recommended  by  Cotugno,  and  more  recently 
systematized  by  Valleix  ; and  also  for  blistering  in  rheumatism  after  the  manner  of  Her- 
bert Davies. 

ACETUM  IPECACUANHA,  Br. — Vinegar  of  Ipecacuanha. 

Vinaigre  d1  ipecacuanha,  Fr. ; Brechwurz-  Essig,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Ipecacuanha,  in  No.  20  powder,  1 oz.  (or  1 part)  Diluted 
Acetic  Acid  sufficient  for  20  fluidounces  (or  20  fluid  parts).  Moisten  the  powder  with  a 
suitable  quantity  of  the  menstruum,  and  macerate  for  twenty-four  hours;  pack  in  a per- 
colator, and  gradually  add  the  acid  until  the  required  volume  of  the  vinegar  of  ipecacuanha 
is  obtained. — Br. 

The  preparation  is  of  a yellowish-brown  color,  and  is  intended  to  keep  the  emetic  in 
permanent  solution. 

Action  and  Uses. — Locally  it  is  a slight  irritant  to  the  skin,  due  to  its  containing 
acetic  acid.  It  is  used  as  an  expectorant,  especially  in  earlier  stages  of  bronchitis  in 
doses  of  5-40  minims. 

ACETUM  OPII,  IT.  S. — Vinegar  of  Opium. 

Black  drop,  E. ; Vinaigre  d' Opium,  Fr. ; Opium- Essig,  G. 

Preparation. — Powered  Opium,  100  Gm. ; Nutmeg  in  No.  30  powder,  30  Gm. ; Sugar, 
200  Gm. ; Diluted  Acetic  Acid,  sufficient  to  make  1000  Cc.  Macerate  the  opium  and  nut- 
meg in  500  Cc.  of  diluted  acetic  acid  during  seven  days,  frequently  stirring ; then  strain 
through  muslin  of  close  texture  and  express  the  liquid.  Mix  the  residue  with  200  Cc. 
of  diluted  acetic  acid  to  a uniform  magma,  and  strain  and  express  again.  Mix  and 
filter  the  strained  liquids,  dissolve  the  sugar  in'  the  filtrate,  and  pass  enough  diluted 
acetic  acid  through  the  filter  to  make  the  product  measure  1000  Cc. — IT.  S. 

Opium,  410  grains  ; nutmeg,  123  grains  ; sugar,  810  grains,  with  sufficient  dilute  acetic 
acid  to  make  8 fluidounces.  This  preparation  represents  1 grain  of  powdered  opium  in 
104  minims  (about  9 minims  in  1880  and  6|-  minims  in  1870),  and  is  now,  by  measure, 
of  the  same  strength  as  the  tincture  of  opium.  It  has  a deep  reddish-brown  color.  It 
is  to  be  assayed  by  neutralizing  the  acid  of  50  Cc.  of  this  vinegar  with  calcium  carbonate, 
and  then  proceeding  as  directed  by  the  Pharmacopoeia  for  tincture  of  opium. 

Action  and  Uses. — Vinegar  of  opium  is  nearly  free  from  the  sickening  smell 
and  taste  which  belong  to  laudanum,  and  is  much  less  apt  to  nauseate.  This  last 
quality  is  probably  due  in  part  to  the  nutmeg  it  contains,  and  in  part  to  the  almost  com- 
plete absence  from  it  of  narcotine,  the  most  irritating  to  the  stomach  and  depressing  to 
the  nervous  system  among  the  constituents  of  opium.  This  advantage  it  shares  with  the 
deodorized  tincture.  The  dose  is  Gm.  0.30-0.60  (gtt.  v-x). 


16 


ACETUM  SCILLjE.— ACHILLEA. 


ACETUM  SCILLHU, — JJ.  8.,  Br JP.  G.— Vinegar  of  Squill. 

Acetum  scilliticum. — Vinaigre  ( Acetole ) de  scille,  Fr.  Cod.;  Meerzwiebel- Essig.  G. ; 
Acet.o  scillitico , F.  It. 

Preparation. — Squill  in  No.  30  powder,  100  Gm. ; Diluted  Acetic  Acid  sufficient  for 
making  1000  Cc.  Macerate  the  squill  with  900  Cc.  of  diluted  acetic  acid  during  seven 
days,  frequently  stirring  ; then  strain  through  muslin,  and  wash  the  mass  on  the  strainer 
with  enough  diluted  acetic  acid,  until  the  strained  liquid  measures  1000  Cc.  Finally 
filter. — JJ.  S. 

Squill,  4 oz.  av.  yield  38-§  fluidounces  by  this  formula. 

Squill,  2^oz.  av. ; diluted  acetic  acid,  1 pint  imperial ; macerate  for  seven  days,  strain 
with  expression  and  filter.  Spec.  grav.  about  1.030. — Br. 

Squill,  100  Gm.;  glacial  acetic  acid,  20  Gm. ; white  vinegar,  980  Gm.  Macerate  for 
eight  days,  express,  and  filter. — F.  Cod. 

Squill,  cut  and  dried,  5 parts;  alcohol,  5 parts;  acetic  acid  (spec.  grav.  1.041),  9 
parts ; water,  36  parts ; macerate  for  three  days  at  15  to  20  per  cent. ; strain  without 
forcible  expression,  and  after  twenty-four  hours  filter. — P.  G. 

The  formula  of  P.  A.  agrees  with  that  of  P.  G .,  except  that  percolation  is  directed. 
The  other  pharmacopoeias  direct  maceration,  this  being  better  calculated  to  extract  the 
squill  ; the  drug  absorbs  much  of  the  watery  menstruum,  swells  considerably,  and  is  apt 
to  cake  together  and  obstruct  the  uniform  descent  of  the  percolating  liquid.  It  will  be 
found  of  advantage  to  set  the  strained  liquid  aside  for  a day  or  two  before  filtering  it. 

Vinegar  of  squill  is  a clear  liquid  of  a yellowish  color,  an  acetous  odor,  and  acid  and 
bitter  taste.  That  of  P.  A.  is  red  brown,  it  being  prepared  from  the  red  variety  of 
squill,  which  is  also  directed  by  F.  It.  in  the  proportion  of  1:10. 

Action  and  Uses. — Vinegar  of  squill  was  anciently  employed,  and  for  very 
diverse  purposes,  among  which  it  is  only  necessary  to  mention  the  cure  of  spongy 
gums,  various  forms  of  sore  throat,  hoarseness,  etc.,  in  all  of  which  it  is  certain  that  the 
vinegar,  and  not  the  squill,  in  the  compound  was  the  efficacious  ingredient.  The  diuretic 
action  of  squill  is  probably  enhanced  by  its  solution  in  vinegar,  which  is  the  best  form 
for  its  administration  in  dropsy.  Its  efficiency  is  much  increased  by  associating  it  with 
acetate  of  potassium  and  digitalis,  as  in  the  following  formula:  3^.  Tinct.  scillse  f^ss  ; 
tinct.  digitalis  f^ij  ; spt.  juniperi  comp.,  vin.  hispan.,  da.  f^ij  ; aquae  f^viij  ; potassii  acetat. 
!$j. — M.  S.  A tablespoonful,  diluted,  three  times  a day.  Vinegar  of  squill  should  not  be 
used  in  renal  dropsy,  but  only  in  dropsy  of  cardiac  origin.  Its  average  dose  is  Gm.  1 
(n^xv),  and  it  is  best  administered  in  an  aromatic  draught. 


ACHILLEA. — Yarrow,  Milfoil, 

Herba  ( Summitates ) millefolii , P.  A. — Millefeuille , Herbe  aux  charpentiers , Fr. ; Schaf- 
garbe , Schafgrippe , G. 

Achillea  Millefolium,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 153. 

Nat.  Ord. — Compositae,  Anthemideae. 

Description. — A perennial  herb  60--90  Cm.  (2  to  3 feet)  high,  growing  in  fields  and 
pastures  throughout  the  greater  part  of  the  northern  temperate  zone  of  America  and 
Europe.  The  hairy  furrowed  stem  is  branching  only  near  the  top.  The  radical  leaves 
are  petiolate,  20-30  Cm.  (8  to  12  inches)  long;  the  stem-leaves  nearly  sessile,  5-10  Cm. 
(2  to  4 inches)  long,  all  more  or  less*  soft-hairy,  dark-green,  lanceolate  in  outline,  and 
twice  or  thrice  deeply  pinnatifid ; the  segments  are  linear-spatulate,  three-  to  five-cleft, 
crowded,  finely  mucronate,  and  upon  the  lower  side  with  small  oil-glands.  The  flowers 
grow  in  level-topped  corymbs  ; heads  numerous,  with  the  involucre  oblong ; scales  imbri- 
cate, keeled  ; receptacle  flat,  chaffy ; ray-florets  pistillate,  4 or  5,  short  ligulate,  white  or 
rose-colored ; disk-florets  several,  perfect,  tubular,  with  the  margin  whitish  and  the  tube 
yellowish  ; akenes  flattened,  oblong,  without  pappus.  It  has  a feeble  aromatic,  somewhat 
chamomile-like  odor,  and  a bitterish,  rather  saline,  and  somewhat  astringent  taste.  It 
should  be  collected  while  flowering,  the  coarse  stems  being  rejected.  The  loss  in  drying 
is  about  85  per  cent. 

Constituents. — Yarrow  yields  by  distillation  with  water  about  y1^-  per  cent,  of  a 
blue  or  dark-green  volatile  oil,  that  of  the  flowers  having  a spec.  grav.  of  0.92,  that  of 
the  leaves  being  butyraceous.  The  bitter  principle  aeMUein  obtained  by  Zanon  (1846) 
was  regarded  by  Von  Planla  (1870)  as  being  identical  with  achilleine  of  iva  (see  below). 


ACIDXJM  ACETICUM. 


17 


Zanon’s  achilleic  add  is  aconitic  acid  (Hlasiwetz,  1857).  Yarrow  also  contains  a small 
quantity  of  resin,  tannin,  and  gum,  and  malates,  nitrates,  phosphates,  and  chlorides  of 
potassium  and  calcium  ; on  incineration,  from  13  to  17  per  cent,  of  ash  is  obtained. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparation. — Extractum  millefolii  is  prepared  by  mace- 
rating the  drug  with  diluted  alcohol  and  evaporating.  The  yield  is  from  20  to  25  per 
cent. 

Allied  Species. — The  following,  which  are  indigenous  to  Europe,  are  to  some  extent  employed  : 

Ach.  ptarmica,  Li nnt ; Sneezewort,  E. ; Herbe  a eternuer,  Fr.;  Bertramgarbe,  G.  It  has 
been  naturalized  in  some  of  the  New  England  States.  It  has  lance-linear,  finely,  but  sharply 
serrate  leaves,  and  elongated  white  ray  florets.  The  root  is  sternutatory. 

Ach.  ageratum,  Linnt,  has  tufted,  oblong,  serrate,  and  clammy  leaves,  and  very  short  ray- 
florets  ; its  odor  is  strong,  but  not  agreeable  ; taste  bitter. 

Ach.  nobilis,  Linnt,  is  softly  pubescent,  has  oval  or  oblong  bi-  or  tri-pinnatifid  leaves,  with 
linear-oblong  toothed  lobes  ; the  5 ray-florets  are  reflexed  ; odor  and  taste  stronger  than  in  the 
common  yarrow. 

Ach.  moschata,  LinnS ; Iva,  E .,  G. ; Genepi  blanc,  Fr. ; is  largely  used  in  Switzerland;  has 
white  flowers  and  smooth  pinnatifid  leaves  with  linear  entire  lobes ; it  is  strongly  aromatic  and 
bitter.  Von  Planta-Reichenau  (1870)  obtained  from  it  a bluish-green  volatile  oil,  ivaol , of  a re- 
freshing odor  and  bitterish  mint-like  taste : ivain , C24H4203,  soft,  yellow,  insoluble  in  water, 
soluble  in  alcohol  and  bitter;  achilleine , C20H88N2O15,  is  red  brown,  readily  soluble  in  water,  with 
difficulty  in  absolute  acohol,  insoluble  in  ether,  and  when  boiled  with  dilute  acids  yields  sugar, 
ammonia,  and  odorous  body,  and  achilletine , Cj|tI17N04,  which  is  dark-brown,  insoluble  in  water, 
and  not  bitter  ; moschatine,  C21H27N07,  is  insoluble  in  cold  water,  and  has  an  aromatic  bitter 
taste. 

Ach.  atrata,  Linn€,  and  Ach.  nana,  Linn#,  are  used  like  the  other  species. 

Action  and  Uses. — Milfoil  appears  to  be  a general  stimulant  and  tonic,  with 
peculiar  relations  to  the  pelvic  organs.  Like  other  stimulant  tonics,  it  has  been 
found  capable  of  curing  certain  cases  of  intermittent  fever,  and  is  apt  to  promote  the 
appetite  and  digestion  in  atonic  gastric  disorders.  Its  special  local  action  is  illustrated  by 
the  virtues  ascribed  to  it  in  piles  and  amenorrhoeci,  for  the  cure  of  which  it  was  celebrated 
even  in  ancient  times.  The  form  of  the  first  of  these  diseases  in  which  it  appears  to  be 
most  efficient  is  that  in  which,  along  with  relaxation  of  the  sphincter  ani,  there  is  a dis- 
charge of  mucus,  more  or  less  bloody,  during  defecation.  A similar  condition  of  atony 
in  the  reproductive  organs  of  the  female  is  attended  sometimes  with  menorrhagia , and 
sometimes  with  imperfect  and  painful  menstruation.  A tonic  and  stimulant  regimen  is 
essential  to  its  successful  treatment,  and  as  a portion  thereof  milfoil  may  sometimes  be 
employed  with  advantage.  By  this  mode  of  action,  doubtless,  milfoil  has  proved  bene- 
ficial in  leucorrho&a  and  flatulent  colic  ; and  it  may  assist  in  curing  relaxed  and  otherwise 
inert  conditions  of  the  throat , when  its  infusion  is  used  as  a gargle,  or  in  cases  of  sore 
nipples , when  it  is  applied  as  a lotion.  An  infusion  may  be  made  with  Gm.  16  (gss) 
of  milfoil  in  Gm.  .250  (fgiij)  of  water,  reduced  by  heat  to  Gm.  192  (f^vj).  It  may  be 
given  in  tablespoonful  doses  every  hour.  The  expressed  juice  has  been  prescribed  in 
doses  of  Gm.  32-64  (^j-ij)  three  times  a day.  The  volatile  oil  may  be  given  in  doses  of 
Gm.  1.30  (20  drops). 

Achille'in,  in  doses  of  from  Gm.  0.50-1.30  (grs.  8-20),  is  reported  to  have  occasioned 
a sense  of  epigastric  oppression  and  some  irregularity  of  pulse,  but  to  have  increased  the 
appetite. 

Sneezewort , as  its  name  implies,  is  very  irritating  to  the  nostrils  when  applied  in  pow- 
der, and  the  root,  when  chewed,  produces  salivation  and  an  acrid  impression  on  the  fauces. 
These  qualities  have  led  to  its  use  in  commencing  coryza , conjunctivitis,  pharyngitis,  and 
larnygitis.  Mush  milfoil  is  stated  to  be  stimulant  and  antispasmodic, ‘and,  like  A.  atrata, 
is  used  as  a stimulant  at  the  commencement  of  febrile  attacks. 


ACIDUM  ACETICUM.  TI.  8.,  Br.,  V.  G.— Acetic  Acid. 

Adde  acetique , Fr. ; Essigsdure,  G. ; Acido  acetico , It.,  Sp. 

Formula  HC2H302=CH3C00H.  Molecular  weight  59.86. 

Production. — To  obtain  acetic  acid  from  vinegar,  Stahl  proposed,  about  the  year 
1700,  to  expose  it  to  cold  and  separate  the  stronger  acid  from  the  ice,  and  to  neutralize  it 
with  an  alkali,  evaporate,  and  distil  with  sulphuric  acid.  Crystallized  acetic  acid  was 
observed  by  the  Count  de  Lauraguais  (1759)  in  the  so-called  copper  spirit,  the  distillate 
of  copper  acetate ; and  Lowitz  found  that  a diluted  acetic  acid,  if  repeatedly  rectified 
2 


18 


ACIDUM  ACETICUM. 


over  powdered  charcoal,  would  yield  a product  crystallizing  at  a low  temperature,  and 
named  it  glacial  acetic  acid.  Acetic  acid  and  glacial  acetic  acid  are  obtained  by  the 
decomposition  of  an  acetate  by  a stronger  acid ; for  this  purpose  sodium  (or  potassium) 
acetate  and  sulphuric  acid  are  most  generally  employed  now.  The  proportions  (equal 
equivalents),  adopted  already  by  Stahl,  were  (1873)  proven  to  be  correct  by  Mohr,  Buch- 
ner, and  others  also  for  the  preparation  of  the  glacial  acid ; in  this  case,  however,  the 
mechanical  difficulties  of  the  operation  are  such  as  to  make  it  preferable  to  use  a larger 
quantity,  nearly  2 equivalents  of  sulphuric  acid.  The  British  Pharmacopoeia,  1864, 
directed  fully  2 equivalents  ; in  the  later  editions  (1867  and  1885)  the  process  has  been 
omitted.  By  far  the  largest  quantity  of  the  acetic  acid  of  commerce  is  now  obtained  from 
wood  vinegar.  Glauber  (1648)  was  already  acquainted  with  vinegar  as  one  of  the  products 
of  the  destructive  distillation  of  wood  and  other  vegetable  substances ; but  the.  identity 
of  the  volatile  acid  contained  therein  with  that  of  vinegar  from  alcoholic  liquids  was 
proven  by  Fourcroy  and  Vauquelin  (1800),  and  Thenard  showed  (1802)  the  same  to  be 
contained  among  the  products  of  the  dry  distillation  of  animal  substances. 

I.  Acidum  aceticum  pyrolignosum,  Acidum  pyrolignosum. — Pyrolig- 
neous acid , E.  ; Acide  acetique  du  bois , acide  pyroacetique , acide  pyroligneux , Fr.  ; Holzessig- 
Sciure , G. 

Preparation. — The  destructive  distillation  of  wood  is  effected  in  sheet-iron  cylinders, 
either  upright  or  horizontal,  which  may  be  charged  with  billets  of  wood  from  the  top,  and 
from  which  the  charcoal  may  be  removed  through  a lateral  opening.  The  cylinder  is 
rapidly  heated,  the  resulting  volatile  products  being  passed  through  wide  condensing- 
tubes,  cooled  by  being  surrounded  with  water,  into  a wrooden  or  iron  receiver,  from  which 
the  condensed  products  may  be  drawn  oft'  by  means  of  a tap,  while  the  uncondensible 
gaseous  products,  consisting  of  acetylene  C2H2,  ethylene  C2H4,  propene  C3H6,  marsh  gas  CH4, 
and  other  hydrocarbons,  as  well  as  carbonic  oxide,  are  carried  off  through  a pipe  into  the 
furnace,  there  to  be  burned  up  in  place  of  other  fuel.  The  condensed  portion  consists 
of  an  aqueous  stratum  and  of  an  oily  or  tarry  layer  containing  empyreumatic  oils  and 
resins,  cresylic  and  phenylic  compounds,  various  hydrocarbons,  etc.,  and  furnishing  the 
material  used  for  the  preparation  of  creosote. 

The  watery  liquid,  amounting  to  about  30  per  cent,  of  the  weight  of  the  wood,  is  the 
crude  wood  vinegar  or  pyroligneous  vinegar , a solution  of  a large  number  of  products  of 
decomposition,  such  as  small  quantities  of  phenols,  guaiacol,  and  empyreumatic  oils  and 
resins,  also  furfurol  C5H402,  acetone,  methylic  and  allylic  alcohol,  methylamine,  pyro- 
catechin,  and  several  acids,  the  principal  one  of  which  is  acetic  acid,  accompanied  by 
formic,  propionic,  butyric,  capronic,  crotonic,  and  other  acids.  The  distillation  being  care- 
fully conducted,  wood  yields  from  6 to  8,  or.  even  9,  per  cent,  of  acetic  acid,  and  wood 
vinegar,  on  being  evaporated  in  the  water-bath,  leaves  about  8 per  cent,  of  residue. 

On  subjecting  the  crude  product  to  distillation,  the  first  portion  (about  10  per  cent.)  of 
the  distillate  contains  mainly  the  alcohols  and  acetone,  and  subsequently  a colorless  or 
yellowish  acid  liquid  is  obtained,  amounting  to  about  75  or  80  per  cent,  of  the  crude 
article.  This  distillate  is  Acetum  pyrolignosum  rectificatum , P.  G,  ; purified  pyroligneous 
or  wood  vinegar  ; Vinaigre  de  hois , Fr. ; Holzessig , G. ; and  contains  variable  quantities  of 
most  of  the  constituents  of  crude  wood  vinegar,  which  on  exposure  to  light  and  the 
atmosphere  cause  the  distillate  to  assume  a brown  color,  rendering  filtration  or  redistilla- 
tion necessary ; to  avoid  this,  it  should  be  kept  in  full  and  well-corked  bottles  and  in  a 
dark  place.  The  peculiar  smoky  odor  of  wood  vinegar  is  due  to  the  presence  of  empy- 
reumatic products. 

Wood  vinegar,  both  crude  and  rectified,  is  recognized  by  the  German  Pharmacopoeia, 
and  required  to  contain  at  least  6 and  4.5  per  cent,  of  acetic  acid  respectively,  so  that 
10  Gm.  of  the  former  and  6 Gin.  of  the  latter  require  for  neutralization  not  less  than  10 
Cc.  of  volumetric  solution  of  potassa.  With  diluted  ferric  chloride  it  usually  acquires 
a dark-green  color,  due  to  pyrocatechin.  Wood  vinegar,  particularly  that  obtained 
from  beech-wood,  contains  Irydrocoerulignone  C16H1S06,  a colorless  diatomic  phenol,  which 
under  the  influence  of  oxidizing  agents  yields  coerulignone  C16HIfJ06.  Liebermann  (1872) 
obtained  it  from  the  brown  precipitate  produced  in  crude  wood  vinegar  by  potassium 
bichromate,  and  regards  it  as  identical  with  Beichenbach’s  cedriret ; it  forms  purplish- 
blue  minute  needles,  is  insoluble  in  most  solvents,  but  dissolves  in  strong  sulphuric  acid 
with  a blue,  and  in  phenol  with  a red,  color,  the  latter  solution  yielding  with  alcohol  or 
ether  dark  steel-blue  needles  of  coerulignone,  and  this,  by  reduction  with  tin  and  hydro- 
chloric acid  or  other  agents,  is  again  converted  into  hydrocoerulignone. 

A much  cleaner  pyroligneous  acid  than  by  the  process  described  above  is  obtained  by 


A CID  UM  A CETIC  UM. 


19 


subjecting  strips  of  wood  for  about  4 hours  to  the  heat  of  steam  under  a pressure  of  from 
70  to  100  pounds  (150°  to  162°  C.  = 300°  to  330°  F.),  whereby  the  texture  of  the  wood 
is  but  little  altered,  and  the  subsequent  purification  of  the  acid  is  simplified.  On  recti- 
fying the  crude  product  a heavy  oil  is  separated,  in  which  Heill  (1877)  found  furfurol, 
pyromucic  acid,  a yellow  body  yielding,  with  caustic  soda,  pyroxanthin  and  other  products. 

By  fractional  distillation  the  volatile  impurities  of  pyroligneous  acetic  acid  cannot  be 
removed,  nor  can  they  be  readily  destroyed  by  chlorine  or  other  oxidizing  agents.  To 
attain  this  end  milk  of  lime  is  added  in  excess,  partly  for  the  purpose  of  forming  calcium 
acetate,  partly  with  the  view  of  removing  various  tarry  products,  as  insoluble  calcium 
compounds.  The  solution  of  calcium  acetate  freed  from  the  precipitate  is  evaporated  to 
dryness;  the  crude  salt  thus  obtained,  which  contains  from  74  to  75  per  cent,  of  hydrogen 
acetate,  is  carefully  heated  upon  an  iron  plate  in  thin  layers  until  it  chars,  then  redissolved 
in  water,  the  solution  decomposed  by  sulphuric  acid,  or  preferably  by  hydrochloric  acid, 
and  then  distilled.  Owing  to  the  difficulty  of  regulating  the  heat  so  as  to  avoid  the 
destruction  of  the  calcium  acetate,  the  solution  of  this  salt  is  usually  decomposed  by 
sodium  sulphate,  the  resulting  gypsum  removed  by  settling  and  filtration,  and  the  filtrate 
evaporated  to  dryness.  The  sodium  acetate  is  more  manageable  in  regard  to  the  regula- 
tion qf  the  temperature  (about  260°  C.  — 500°  F.)  necessary  to  destroy  the  empyreumatic 
compounds  without  affecting  the  acetate.  The  latter  is  purified  by  dissolving  it  in  a little 
water,  and  decanting  from  the  sediment ; sulphuric  acid  is  added,  the  liquid  separated  from 
the  crystals  of  sodium  sulphate  and  distilled,  when  an  acetic  acid  will  be  obtained  more 
or  less  pure  in  accordance  with  the  care  exercised  in  the  process  of  purification. 

II.  Acidum  aceticum  glaciale,  U.  S.,  Br. ; Acidum  aceticum  s.  Acidum  aceticum 
concentratum  s.  Acetum  glaciale , P.  A.,  P.  G.  ; Glacial  acetic  acid , E.  ; Acide  acetique  crys- 
tallizable , Fr.  Cod.;  Esprit  de  vinaigre,  Vinaigre  glacial , Fr. ; Essigsdure , Eisessig . G. ; 
Acido  acetico-concentrato,  F.  It. 

Preparation. — Carefully  heat  131  parts  of  pure  crystallized  sodium  acetate  until 
the  water  of  crystallization  has  been  completely  expelled  and  the  salt  has  been  fused ; 
the  residue,  weighing  nearly  81  parts,  is  coarsely  powdered,  introduced  into  a glass  retort, 
intimately  mixed  with  9J  to  10  parts  of  concentrated  sulphuric  acid,  and  then  distilled. 
It  is  advisable  to  warm  the  retort,  by  placing  it  in  a sand-bath,  before  the  acid  is  added. 
136  parts  of  cryst.  sodium  acetate  will  yield  60  parts  of  acetic  acid.  The  condensation 
of  the  acetic  acid  vapors  may  be  effected  either  by  a Liebig’s  condenser  in  a receiver  con- 
nected directly  with  the  retort  or  by  means  of  an  adapter. 

The  reaction  is  as  follows:  NaC2H302  + H2S04  = NaHS04  + HC2H302.  Acid  sodium 
sulphate  and  acetic  acid  are  formed,  the  latter  distilling  over,  free  from  empyreuma  if 
the  heat  has  not  been  suddenly  raised  too  high,  and  also  free  from  sulphurous  and  other 
acids  if  the  sodium  acetate  has  not  been  contaminated  with  organic  or  other  impurities. 
Although,  theoretically,  the  hydrogen  acetate  or  so-called  monohydrated  acid  should  be 
obtained,  the  product  always  contains  some  water,  but  crystallizes  readily  near  the  freez- 
ing-point of  water.  By  partial  crystallization,  pouring  off  the  liquid  portion,  and  repeat- 
ing this  operation,  an  acid  nearly  free  from  water  will  be  obtained.  Hydrogen  acetate 
is  prepared,  according  to  Hirsch  (1873),  by  intimately  mixing  12  parts  of  exsiccated 
sodium  acetate  with  20  parts  of  fused  acid  potassium  sulphate,  and  with  a carefully 
regulated  heat  distilling  7 parts. 

Properties. — Glacial  acetic  acid  forms  colorless,  flat,  rhombic  crystals,  which  melt 
on  the  application  of  heat  to  a colorless  liquid,  and  this  retains  the  fluid  condition  fre- 
quently on  being  cooled  to  10°  C.  (74°  F.),  unless  brought  in  contact  with  a crystal. 
At  the  mean  temperature  of  the  air  it  forms  a colorless  liquid  with  a pungent  acetous 
odor.  When  heated  to  boiling,  the  vapor  may  be  ignited  and  burns  with  a blue  flame. 
Hydrogen  acetate  fuses  at  22.5°  C.  (72.5°  F.,  Mollerat);  has  at  16°  C.  (60.8°  F.)  a specific 
gravity  of  1.0553,  and  boils  at  119°  C.  (246.2°  F.,  Sebille- Auger),  or,  according  to  Oude- 
mans,  between  117°  and  118.2°  C. 

Biidorff  (1870)  gives  the  congealing-point  of  hydrogen  acetate  at  16.7°  C.  (62°  F.), 
and  if  100  parts  of  this  acid  are  mixed  with  water,  the  congealing-point  will  be  as  fol- 
lows : 

With  water,  0.5  1.0  1.5  2.0  3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10  parts. 

Congealing  point,  15.65°  14.8°  14.0°  13.25°  11.95°  10.5°  9.4°  8.2°  7.1°  6.25°  5.3°  4.3°  C. 

The  V.  S.  and  Br.  Pharmacopoeias  require  glacial  acetic  acid  to  contain  99  per  cent, 
of  absolute  C4H202  — 84  per  cent,  of  acetic  anhydride  (C2II30)20 ; but  the  melting- 


20 


ACIDUM  ACETICUM. 


point  is  given  at  about  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  U S.  and  above  60°  F.  Br.,  and  the  specific 
gravity  at  1.058  U.  S.,  Br.,  1.064  P.  G.,  F.  It.,  1.063  F.  Cod.,  1.06  P.  A.  An  acid  of 
the  strength  indicated  is  miscible  in  all  proportions  with  alcohol,  ether,  and  chloroform, 
and  dissolves  an  equal  weight  of  fresh  oil  of  lemon,  but  less  of  the  resinified  oil.  The  oil 
is  also  far  less  soluble  in  weaker  acetic  acid,  requiring  about  10  parts  of  the  latter  if  of 
96  per  cent.  A more  reliable  test  for  the  absence  of  water  is  carbon  disulphide  ; equal 
parts  of  it  and  glacial  acetic  acid  form,  according  to  Fltickiger,  a clear  solution  at  and 
above  20°  C.  (68°  F.),  but  an  opalescent  or  turbid  liquid  below  that  temperature.  On 
neutralizing  the  acid  3.  Gm.  of  it  should  require  not  less  than  49.5  Cc.  of  the  volumetric 
solution  of  potassa  ( P.  S.),  or  60  grains  of  the  former  990  grain  measures  of  the  latter 
(Br.)  ; 5 Cc.  of  a mixture  of  1 part  acid  and  9 parts  water,  should  require  for  neutrali- 
zation not  less  than  8 Cc.  potassa  solution  (96  per  cent,  acetic  acid,  P.  G ).  The  absence 
of  arsenic  is  determined  by  mixing  1 Cc.  of  the  acid  with  3 Cc.  of  stannous  chloride  solu- 
tion ; the  mixture  should  not  acquire  a brown  or  black  color  within  one  hour  (P.  G.). 

Glacial  acetic  acid  absorbs  moisture  from  the  atmosphere,  whereby  its  melting-point  is 
lowered  and  its  density  increased  to  a certain  degree  (see  below).  For  the  detection  of 
impurities  this  acid  is  to  be  diluted  with  distilled  water  previous  to  testing  it,  as  stated 
below. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Acidum  ACETICUM  aromaticum  ; Aromatic  acetic  acid, 
E. ; Acide  antique  aromatise,  Yinaigre  anglaise,  Fr. ; Gewiirshafte  Essigsaure,  G. 
Oil  of  cloves  9 parts,  oil  of  lavender  6 parts,  oil  of  lemon  6 parts,  oil  of  bergamot  3 parts, 
oil  of  thyme  3 parts,  oil  of  cinnamon  1 part,  glacial  acetic  acid  25  parts  ; dissolve  by 
agitation. — P.  G.,  1872.  The  preparation  of  the  French  Codex  contains  10  per  cent,  of 
camphor  and  i per  cent,  of  volatile  oils.  Aromatic  acetic  acid  is  sometimes  designated 
aromatic  vinegar  (see  page  14). 

Derivatives  of  Acetic  Acid. — Chlor-acetic  acids. — When  chlorine  is  allowed 
to  act  upon  acetic  acid,  either  one,  two,  or  three  hydrogen  atoms  may  be  replaced  by 
chlorine,  according  to  the  conditions  prevailing,  forming  respectively  mono,  di-,  and  tri- 
chlor-acetic  acids.  All  three  compounds  possess  caustic  properties ; the  latter  only  has 
been  medicinally  used. 

Acidum  trichloraceticum,  P.  G.;  Trichloracetic  acid,  E. ; Trichloressigsaure,  G. 
This  acid  is  usually  prepared  by  treating  1 part  of  chloral  hydrate  with  3 parts  of 
fuming  nitric  acid,  exposing  the  mixture  for  several  days  to  the  sunlight,  until  red 
fumes  cease  to  be  evolved,  when  it  is  distilled.  In  the  pure  state  the  acid  forms  colorless 
rhombohedric  crystals,  which  are  deliquescent,  of  a slight  pungent  odor,  have  a strongly 
acid  reaction,  and  dissolve  readily  in  water,  alcohol,  and  ether.  The  crystals  melt  near 
55°  C. ; the  boiling-point  is  near  195°  C.,  and  the  acid  evaporates  without  leaving  any 
residue.  It  has  the  composition  CCl3COOH  (mol.  weight  162.97);  when  boiled  with 
an  excess  of  sodium  carbonate  it  is  decomposed,  yielding  chloroform,  CHC13,  and 
carbon  dioxide,  C02.  Mono-  and  di-chloracetic  acids  yield  under  similar  conditions  no 
chloroform,  but  glycolic  and  glyoxylic  acid,  respectively.  The  limit  of  hydrochloric 
acid,  admissible  as  impurity,  is  indicated  by  two  drops  of  T\,  silver  nitrate  solution 
producing  merely  a faint  opalescence  in  a solution  of  1 Cc.  of  the  acid  in  9 Cc.  of 
water. 

III.  Acidum  aceticum,  U.  S.,  Br. ; Acidum  aceticum  dilutum  s.  Acetum  concen- 
tratum,  P.  G.  ; Acetic  acid , E.  ; Acide  acetique , Fr.  ; Verdiinnte  Essigsaure,  G. 

Preparation. — Like  the  glacial  variety,  this  acid  may  be  obtained  by  distilling 
sodium  acetate  with  sulphuric  acid,  but  in  all  probability  manufacturers  and  dealers 
follow  the  more  convenient  plan  of  diluting  a stronger  acid  with  the  requisite  amount  of 
water  and  finally  standardizing  the  mixture  with  volumetric  solution  of  alkali. 

Properties.— Acetic  acid  has  the  specific  gravity  1.048  U.  8.,  1.044  Br.,  1.041  P.  G. 
These  figures  indicate  a percentage  of  hydrogen  acetate,  amounting  to  36  U.  8.  , 33  Br., 
and  30  G.  Acide  acetique  du  commerce,  Fr.  Cod.,  and  acido  acetico-diluito , F.  It.,  differ 
considerably  from  the  above,  the  former  being  of  sp.  gr.  1.060,  the  latter  1.027,  corre- 
sponding to  49  and  19  per  cent.,  respectively,  of  absolute  acetic  acid;  P.  A.  requires 
1.029  sp.  grav.  and  20.4  per  cent,  of  acid.  For  acetic  acid  of  somewhat  greater  strength, 
the  determination  of  its  specific  gravity  does  not  afford  a reliable  criterion,  since  the 
acid  of  maximum  strength  on  being  mixed  with  water  increases  in  its  relative  weight 
until  the  percentage  is  reduced  to  about  79,  when  the  maximum  density  will  be  reached, 
which  at  0°  C.  (32°  F.)  is  1.0397  for  acid  of  80  to  82  per  cent.,  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.), 
1.0748  for  acid  of  77  to  80  per  cent.,  and  at  40°  C.  (104°  F.)  1.0501  for  acid  of  75  to 
77  per  cent,  hydrogen  acetate.  An  acid  of  43  per  cent,  has,  at  15°  C.,  the  same  specific 


ACID UM  ACETICUM. 


21 


gravity  as  one  of  maximum  strength,  and  between  72  and  85  per  cent,  the  density  of 
acetic  acid  shows  very  little  variation.  The  following  table,  by  A.  C.  Oudemans  (1866), 
gives  the  percentage  of  hydrogen  acetate  and  the  specific  gravity  of  acetic  acid  of  dif- 
ferent strengths  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.).  (The  U.  S.  P.  furthermore  giving  the  specific  gravi- 
ties at  0°  C.  (32°  F.)  and  at  40Q  C.  (104°  F.) 


Per  ct. 

Spec.  grav. 

Per  ct. 

Spec.  grav.  1 

1 

Per  ct. 

Spec.  grav. 

Per  ct.  1 

Spec.  grav. 

j Per  ct. 

Spec.  grav. 

100 

1.0553 

80 

1.0748 

60  i 

1.0685 

40  | 

1.0523 

20 

1.0284 

99 

1.0580 

79 

1.0748 

59  1 

1.0679 

39 

1.0513 

i 19 

1.0270 

98 

1.0604 

78 

1.0748 

58 

1.0673 

38 

1.0502 

i 18 

1.0256 

97 

1.0625 

77 

1.0748 

! 57 

1.0666 

37 

1.0492 

1 17 

1.0242 

96  J 

1.0644 

76 

1.0747 

i 56 

1.0660 

36 

1.0481 

! ifi 

1.0228 

. 95 

1.0660 

75 

1.0746 

55 

1.0653 

35 

1.0470 

15 

1.0214 

94 

1.0674 

74 

1.0744 

! 54 

1.0646 

34 

1.0459 

14 

1.0201 

93 

1.0686 

73 

1.0742 

; 53 

1.0638 

33 

1.0447 

13 

1.0185 

92 

1.0696 

72 

1.0740 

52 

1.0631 

32 

1.0436 

12 

1.0171 

91 

1.070p 

1 71 

1.0737 

51 

1.0623 

31 

1.0424 

11 

1.0157 

90 

1.0713 

70 

1.0733 

50 

1.0615 

i 30 

1.0412 

1 io 

1.0142 

89 

1.0720 

69 

1.0729 

49 

1.0607 

! 29 

1.0400 

9 

1.0127 

88 

1.0726 

68 

1.0725 

48 

1.0598 

! 28 

1.0388 

8 

1.0113 

87 

1.0731 

67 

1.0721 

47 

1.0589 

27 

1.0375 

7 

1.0098 

86 

1.0736 

66 

1.0717 

46 

1.0580 

1 26 

1.0363 

6 

1.0083 

85 

1.0739 

65 

1.0712 

45 

1.0571 

25 

1.0350 

5 

1.0067 

84 

1.0742 

64 

1.0707 

j 44 

1.0562 

24 

1.0337 

4 

1.0052 

83 

1.0744 

63 

1.0702 

43 

1.0552  • 

j 23 

1.0324 

3 

j 1.0037 

82 

1.0746 

62 

1.0697 

1 42 

1.0543 

1 22 

1.0311 

2 

1.0022 

81 

1.0747 

61 

1.0691 

I 41 

1.0533 

i 21 

1.0298 

1 

1.0007 

The  strength  of  the  U.  S.  P.  acid  may  be  ascertained  by  weighing  out  5 Gm.  of  it, 
diluting  with  10  Cc.  of  water,  applying  a moderate  heat,  and  gradually  adding  3 Gm. 
of  potassium  bicarbonate ; after  effervescence  has  ceased  and  the  carbon  dioxide  has 
been  entirely  expelled,  the  liquid  should  have  a neutral  reaction  to  test-paper,  or  6.0 
Gm.  of  the  acid  are  neutralized  with  volumetric  solution  of  potassa,  of  which  exactly  36 
Cc.  (U.  $.),  33  Cc.  ( Br .),  26  Cc.  (for  5 Cc.  acid,  P.  6r.),  should  be  required.  The  test 
of  the  British  Pharmacopoeia,  neutralization  of  182  grains  of  acetic  acid  by  1000  grain- 
measures  of  volumetric  solution  of  soda,  indicates  33  per  cent,  of  C2H402,  and  that  of 
the  German  Pharmacopoeia,  neutralization  of  5 Cc.  of  the  acid  by  26  Cc.  of  the  volu- 
metric solution  of  potassa,  proves  a strength  of  30  per  cent,  of  the  same  acid.  The  use 
of  potassium  bicarbonate  for  neutralization  has  the  advantage  of  ready  calculation,  since 
three-fifths  of  its  weight  in  grains  necessary  for  100  grains  of  the  acid  indicates  directly 
the  strength ; the  resulting  potassium  acetate  has  a faint  alkaline  reaction,  but  the  error 
occasioned  thereby,  being  quite  insignificant,  does  not  detract  from  the  practical  value  of 
the  test,  more  particularly  if  alkanet-paper  be  used  in  place  of  litmus-paper  for  deter- 
mining the  neutrality. 

Tests. — The  tests  for  the  purity  of  vinegar  are,  with  some  modifications,  also  appli- 
cable to  acetic  acid.  The  transparency  of  the  acid  is  not  disturbed  on  diluting  it  with 
distilled  water  or  alcohol,  and  on  evaporating  it  in  a water-bath  no  residue  should  be  left 
(saline  impurities).  Calcium  salts  will  produce  a white  precipitate  with  ammonium 
oxalate.  Iron  is  best  detected  by  the  blue  color  or  precipitate  occasioned  with  potassium 
ferrocyanide  ; zinc,  by  the  white  precipitate ; and  the  other  metals,  like  ’copper,  lead,  or 
tin,  by  the  brown  or  black  color  or  precipitate  formed  on  the  addition  of  hydrogen 
sulphide  after  previous  dilution  with  water.  Empyreumatic  products,  if  present  in  con- 
siderable proportion,  may  be  detected  by  the  odor  after  the  acid  has  been  largely  diluted 
with  water  or  neutralized  with  an  alkali ; smaller  quantities  are  indicated  by  adding  a 
minute  quantity  of  solution  of  potassium  permanganate,  the  color  of  which  will  readily 
disappear ; pure  acetic  acid,  containing  less  than  50  per  cent,  of  hydrogen  acetate,  is  not 
affected  by  this  test  (Hager,  Merck,  1873).  If  sulphurous  acid  be  present,  the  hydrogen 
evolved  by  hydrochloric  acid  and  zinc  in  the  presence  of  the  acetic  acid  will  be  contami- 
nated with  hydrogen  sulphide,  which  will  darken  the  color  of  white  bibulous  paper 
wetted  with  solution  of  subacetate  of  lead  and  suspended  in  the  test-tube  or  flask ; the 
same  acid  will  also  discharge  the  color  of  potassium  permanganate,  and,  like  the  empy- 
reumatic products,  cause  a dark  color  and  precipitate  with  silver  nitrate.  In  the  pres- 
ence of  nitric  acid  the  liquid  will  assume  an  orange-red  color  on  dissolving  a little  brucine 
in  it,  and  a dark-brown  color  on  adding  first  strong  sulphuric  acid,  and  afterward  a 


22 


ACIDUM  A USE  NOSUM. 


crystal  of  ferrous  sulphate.  The  U.  S.  1\  directs  proving  the  absence  of  copper  by  excess 
of  ammonia  (blue  color)  ; lead  and  other  metals,  by  hydrogen  sulphide  (coloration  or 
precipitate) ; sulphuric  and  hydrochloric  acid,  by  barium  chloride  and  silver  nitrate 
(turbidity  or  precipitate)  ; and  formic  or  sulphurous  acid,  by  neutralizing  with  ammonia 
and  warming  with  silver  nitrate  (dark  color  and  precipitate).  The  limit  of  empyreu- 
matic  substances  is  ascertained  by  diluting  2 Cc.  of  the  acid  with  10  Cc.  of  distilled 
water  in  a clear  glass-stoppered  vial,  and  adding  5 drops  of  decinormal  potassium  per- 
manganate solution  ; the  tint  of  the  mixture  should  not  change  at  once  from  pink  to 
brown,  and  in  half  a minute  should  not  be  entirely  free  from  pinkish-brown. 

The  salts  of  acetic  acid  are,  with  very  few  exceptions,  readily  soluble  in  water,  and 
their  solutions  acquire  a dark  brown-red  color  with  ferric  salts,  which  disappears  on  the 
addition  of  hydrochloric  acid.  On  adding  sulphuric  acid  to  an  acetate  the  pungent  odor 
of  acetic  acid  is  recognized. 

IV.  Acidum  Aceticum  Dilutum,  U.  S.,  Br. ; Acetum  purum  s.  destillatum. — 
Diluted  acetic  acid, , E.  ; Acide  acetique  dilue , Fr.  ; Reiner  Essig,  G. 

Preparation.— Mix  Acetic  Acid  100  Gm.,  and  Distilled  Water  500  Gm.,  U.  S. ; 
Acetic  Acid  1 pint,  and  Distilled  Water  7 pints,  Br.  If  4 av.  ozs.  of  acetic  acid  be 
added  to  20  av.  ozs.  of  distilled  water,  the  resulting  mixture  will  measure  nearly  23 
fluidounces  (22.85). 

Properties. — Diluted  acetic  acid  has  a specific  gravity  of  1.008  (1.006  Br.'),  and 
100  parts  of  it  neutralize  10  parts  (7.14  parts,  Br.)  of  potassium  bicarbonate,  or  5.3 
parts  (3.8  parts,  Br.)  of  exsiccated  sodium  carbonate,  indicating  a strength  of  acetic  acid 
corresponding  to  6 per  cent.  (4.27  per  cent.,  Br.)  of  hydrogen  acetate;  therefore  10  Gm. 
of  the  acid  require  for  neutralization  10  Cc.  (7.12  Cc.,  Br.)  of  volumetric  solution  of 
potassa ; or,  as  the  British  Pharmacopoeia  directs,  440  grains  of  its  diluted  acetic  acid 
require  for  neutralization  313  grain-measures  of  the  soda  solution,  corresponding  to  3.63 
per  cent,  anhydride.  The  purity  of  diluted  acetic  acid  is  ascertained  by  the  same  tests 
mentioned  for  the  stronger  acid. 

Action  and  Uses. — In  its  pure  state  acetic  acid  is  corrosive  or  irritant,  softening 
the  epidermis  and  the  mucous  membranes;  when  diluted  and  continuously  used,  it  softens 
the  gastro-intestinal  mucous  membrane  and  disorganizes  the  blood-corpuscles.  It  is 
more  or  less  absorbed  by  the  skin.  Acetic  acid  is  seldom  if  ever  employed  internally, 
except  in  the  diluted  form,  which  may  be  used  for  the  same  purposes  as  vinegar  and  in 
the  same  dose.  Strong  and  glacial  acetic  acids  are  applied  chiefly  as  caustics  for  the 
removal  of  warts  and  corns , and  occasionally  for  blistering  the  skin.  The  former  is  a valu- 
able application  in  the  treatment  of  favus , and,  if  diluted,  allays  itching  in  lichen , prurigo , 
and  psoriasis.  It  was  alleged  to  possess  peculiar  advantages  as  a caustic  in  cancer  when 
injected  into  the  substance  of  the  tumor.  But  the  results  of  this  method  are  satisfactory 
only  in  cases  in  which,  from  the  situation  of  the  tumor  or  the  objections  of  the  patient, 
an  operation  is  unadvisable.  A solution  employed  by  Gies  (1877)  varied  in  strength 
from  1 part  in  3 to  1 part  in  9 of  glacial  acetic  acid  in  water.  Nasal  polypus  is  reported 
to  be  readily  curable  by  injections  of  pure  acetic  acid  into  its  substance.  The  growth 
shrivels  and  decays,  and  its  fetor  may  be  corrected  by  a weak  carbolic-acid  solution  (Caro, 
Med.  Record , xvi.  526). 

Chloracetic  acid  has  been  compared  to  nitric  acid  in  its  action.  It  penetrates  deeply, 
but  does  not  excite  much  inflammation  of  the  adjacent  parts,  and  leaves  behind  a mode- 
rate eschar,  which  soon  separates  and  exposes  healthy  granulations.  The  scar  is  rather 
smooth,  and  does  not  contract  a great  deal.  It  is  said  to  cause  less  pain  than  nitrate  of 
silver,  chloride  of  zinc,  or  caustic  potassa.  It  has  been  used  for  removing  warts , condyl- 
oniata , lupus , and  various  neoplasms.  It  may  be  applied  by  means  of  a glass  rod  or  an 
asbestos  brush  or  a wad  of  cotton.  It  has  been  recommended  to  use  trichloracetic  acid 
as  a cauterant  in  diseases  of  the  nose  and  throat , as  preferable  to  chromic  acid  {Med.  News, 
lvi.  541 ; Am.  Jour.  Med.  Sci.,  Aug.  1892,  p.  235). 

ACIDUM  ARSENOSUM,  U.  S.— Arsenous  Acid. 

Acidum  arseniosum  (Br.),  Acidum  arsenicosum  (P.  A.,  P.  G.),  Arsenicum  album. — 
Arsenic , White  arsenic , Arsenic  trioxide , Arsenious  anhydride , E.  ; Acide  arsenieux , Ar- 
senic blanc , Fr.  Cod. ; Arsenige  Sdure , Weisser  Arsenik,  G. ; Arsenico  bianco,  It.  ; Arsenico 
bianco,  Sp. 

Formula,  As203.  Molecular  weight  197.68. 

Preparation. — Arsenous  acid  appears  to  have  been  known  since  about  the  begin- 


ACIDUM  ARSE  NOSUM. 


23 


ning  of  the  Christian  era,  but  was  first  distinguished  from  other  arsenical  compounds  by 
Geber  in  the  eighth  century.  It  has  been  found  in  many  mineral  waters  in  minute  pro- 
portion, and  is  obtained  in  large  quantities  as  a by-product  in  roasting  cobalt,  nickel,  tin, 
and  even  some  silver  ores,  and  particularly  arsenical  iron  pyrites ; the  vapors  are  con- 
ducted through  long  tubes  or  chambers,  where  they  are  condensed  in  the  form  of  a white 
powder,  formerly  called  flowers  of  arsenic.  This  is  not  pure,  but  contains  some  metallic 
arsenic,  arsenic  sulphide,  dirt,  etc.,  from  which  it  is  purified  by  resublimation.  For 
this  purpose  the  crude  powder  is  introduced  into  cast-iron  kettles,  surmounted  by  several 
communicating  iron  cylinders,  from  the  top  of  which  a large  pipe  leads  into  a series  of 
chambers,  where  the  vapors,  which  are  not  condensed  in  the  cylinders,  are  recovered 
again  as  a white  powder.  The  heat,  which  is  applied  directly  to  the  kettle,  is  sufficient 
to  keep  the  condensing  product  in  the  heads  or  in  the  first  chamber  in  a soft  condition, 
so  that  on  cooling  it  congeals  into  masses.  That  consumed  in  this  country  is  mostly 
imported  from  Europe. 

Properties.— Arsenous  acid  occurs  in  heavy,  inodorous  masses,  which  are  at  first 
glass-like,  transparent,  and  of  a conchoidal  fracture,  but  become  superficially  white, 
opaque,  and  of  a waxy  lustre,  the  change  penetrating  gradually  to  the  interior,  so  that 
ultimately  the  entire  mass  is  converted  into  a porcelain-like  mass,  the  formation  of  which 
is  dependent  upon  a molecular  change,  the  amorphous  glass-like  arsenous  acid  becoming 
indistinctly  crystalline.  The  specific  gravity  of  the  vitreous  acid  is  3.7385,  and  of  the 
opaque  variety  3.699  (Guibourt).  Durand  and  Mitchell  determined  (1832)  the  density 
of  the  former  to  be  about  3.3.  When  heated  in  a sealed  tube  arsenous  acid  may  be 
melted  to  a thick  liquid,  and  again  be  obtained  as  a glass-like  mass,  or,  wlien  very  slowly 
cooled,  in  crystals  of  different  form.  Rapidly  heated  in  an  open  test-tube,  it  begins  to 
soften  superficially  at  about  218°  C.  (424°  F.),  but  is  at  the  same  time  rapidly  volatil- 
ized. Slowly  heated  in  a glass  tube  to  about  200°  C.  (392°  F.),  minute  transparent 
crystals  are  obtained,  which  under  a magnifying-glass  are  recognized  as  regular  octa- 
hedra.  It  is  dimorphous,  crystallizing  also  in  thin  pearly  prisms,  which  are  sometimes 
obtained  in  the  process  of  roasting  arsenical  ores.  When  thrown  upon  burning  charcoal, 
it  is  reduced  to  the  metallic  state  and  vaporized,  arsenous  acid  being  again  produced  and 
an  alliaceous  odor  emitted.  It  does  not  readily  mix  with  water,  and  has  a scarcely  per- 
ceptible, faintly  sweetish  taste,  due  to  its  slow  and  sparing  solubility  in  water;  but  this 
solution  has  a slight  but  distinct  metallic  taste  and  a feeble  acid  reaction,  and  unless 
acidulated  with  a mineral  acid  is  not  completely  precipitated  by  hydrogen  sulphide,  but 
remains  yellow  and  transparent,  or  in  reflected  light  slightly  turbid  from  dissolved 
As2S3.  The  crystalline  acid  is  less  soluble  than  the  amorphous,  but  one  is  under  various 
circumstances  converted  into  the  other.  At  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  the  vitreous  variety  is 
soluble  in  about  30  parts  of  cold  water,  while  the  porcelain-like  requires  about  80 
parts ; both  are  slowly  but  completely  soluble  in  15  parts  of  boiling  water  (U.  S.).  By 
prolonged  contact  with  cold  water  about  J per  cent.,  and  by  boiling  water  about  7 per 
cent.,  of  the  acid  is  dissolved,  but  after  boiling  for  several  hours  about  11  per  cent,  is 
taken  up,  the  greatest  portion  crystallizing  on  cooling,  leaving  about  2\  per  cent,  in  the 
solution  ; and  on  prolonged  standing  this  amount  is  reduced  to  somewhat  less  than  2 per 
cent.  The  acid  does  not  volatilize  with  the  vapors  of  boiling  water.  Bussy  found  (1847) 
that  100  parts  of  water  of  13°  C.  (55.4°  F.)  will  dissolve  4 parts  of  amorphous  and  1.2 
parts  of  crystalline  arsenous  acid,  the  former  solution  gradually  depositing  crystals  until 
reduced  in  strength  to  the  latter.  Treated  with  warm  or  cold  ammonia-water,  the  amor- 
phous acid  is  converted  into  the  crystalline  variety  without  combining  with  the  ammonia 
(Guibourt).  Solutions  of  both  the  amorphous  and  crystalline  variety  pass  readily  through 
the  septum  of  the  dialysator.  By  the  aid  of  heat  glycerin  dissolves  arsenous  acid  slowly 
but  freely,  and  deposits  again  a portion  of  it  on  dilution  with  water.  Oil  of  turpentine 
dissolves  only  the  glassy  variety.  Arsenous  acid  is  insoluble  in  ether,  quite  sparingly 
soluble  in  alcohol,  but  combines  with  fixed  oils  when  heated,  forming  a plaster-like  mass  ; 
several  acids  increase  its  solubility  in  water,  particularly  hydrochloric  and  tartaric  acids. 

Powdered  arsenous  acid  is  often  adulterated  ; hence  it  should  not  be  employed  for 
medicinal  purposes  unless  its  purity  has  been  previously  established.  When  rubbing 
the  hard  masses  of  vitreous  or  porcelain-like  acid  to  powder,  sufficient  alcohol  should  be 
sprinkled  over  it  to  prevent  the  dust  from  rising,  and  the  mouth  and  nostrils  should  be 
protected  by  a moist  sponge.  When  larger  quantities  are  powdered,  it  is  even  advisable 
to  protect  the  eyes  and  the  bare  hands. 

Tests. — Arsenous  acid  is  completely  volatilized  without  fusion  at  a temperature  of 
218°  C.  (424.4°  F.)  U.  204.5°  C.  (400°  F.)  Br and  yields  a white  sublimate  free 


24 


ACIDUM  ARSENOSUM. 


from  gray  or  orange-colored  portions  (absence  of  metallic  arsenic  and  sulphides).  By 
prolonged  boiling  with  diluted  hydrochloric  acid  it  dissolves  completely  without  leaving 
any  residue,  and  100  grains  of  it,  thus  dissolved,  yield  with  hydrogen  "sulphide  a lemon- 
yellow  deposit  of  arsenic  trisulphide  weighing,  after  washing  and  drying,  124  grains. 
Four  grains  of  it,  dissolved  in  boiling  water  with  20  grains  of  sodium  bicarbonate, 
discharge  the  color  of  808  grain-measures  of  the  volumetric  solution  of  iodine. — Br. 
Both  the  tests  mentioned  prove  arsenous  acid  to  be  almost  absolutely  free  from  impur- 
ities; but.  the  U.  S.  P.  and  P.  G.  now  admit  this  compound  if  containing  not  less  than 
98.8  per  cent,  of  the  pure  trioxide ; in  which  case  0.1  Gm.  of  it,  dissolved  together  with 
1 Gm.  of  sodium  bicarbonate,  in  20  Cc.  of  water  by  aid  of  heat,  should  decolorize  not 
less  than  20  Cc.  of  decinormal  solution  of  iodine  ; if  absolutely  pure,  20.23  Cc.  of  the 
latter  would  be  required.  The  reaction  occurring  in  this  test  is  shown  by  the  equation  : 
As203  + 5H20  + 2I2  = 2H3As04  -f  4HI ; 1 molecular  weight  of  arsenous  acid  is  oxidized 
by  4 atomic  weights  of  iodine,  with  the  formation  of  2 molecules  of  arsenic  and  4 of 
hydriodic  acid.  The  admixture  of  arsenic  acid  is  detected  by  agitating  an  excess  of 
the  powder  with  cold  alcohol,  filtering,  evaporating,  and  neutralizing  with  ammonia, 
when  silver  nitrate  will  produce  a red-brown  precipitate.  Arsenous  acid  should  be  com- 
pletely soluble  in  10  parts  of  warm  ammonia-water,  forming  a colorless  solution,  which 
should  not  be  colored  yellow  or  produce  a yellow  precipitate  (absence  of  arsenic  sulphide 
and  other  metallic  impurities). 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Pulvis  Arsenicalis  Cosmi. — Come’ s arsenical  powder,  i?. ; Poudre 
escharotique  ars6nicale  (du  frere  Come),  Fr. ; Cosmisches  Pulver,  G.  An  intimate  mixture  of 
vermilion  5 parts,  arsenous  acid  1 part,  and  burned  sponge  2 parts. — F.  Cod.  A weaker 
escharotic,  containing  one-twenty-fifth  its  weight  of  arsenous  acid,  is  known  as  poudre  escha- 
rotique d’ Antoine  Dubois. 

Detection  of  Arsenic  and  Arsenous  Acid.— A neutral  or,  more  promptly, 
an  acidulated  solution  of  arsenic  yields  with  hydrogen  sulphide  a bright-yellow  pre- 
cipitate of  arsenic  sulphide,  which  is  entirely  insoluble  in  dilute  acids,  but  dissolves 
readily  in  alkalies,  their  carbonates  and  sulphides ; if  such  a solution  in  ammonium  sul- 
phide is  acted  upon  by  silver  nitrate  in  excess,  silver  sulphide  is  precipitated,  and 
the  solution  contains  the  arsenic  in  its  original  state  of  oxidation,  either  as  arsenous  or 
arsenic  acid  ; and  on  the  careful  neutralization  of  the  ammonia  by  means  of  nitric  acid 
the  former  is  precipitated  as  yellow  silver  arsenite,  and  the  latter  as  red-brown  silver 
arsenate,  both  precipitates  being  readily  soluble  in  nitric  acid  and  in  ammonia.  Neutral 
solutions  of  arsenous  and  arsenic  acids  yield  with  cupric  sulphate  precipitates,  that 
of  the  former  being  yellowish-green  ( Scheele's  green'),  and  of  the  latter  bluish-green,  in 
color ; both  precipitates  are  freely  soluble  in  nitric  acid  and  in  ammonia.  It  follows, 
from  the  behavior  just  described,  that  in  testing  by  a soluble  silver  or  copper  salt  for 
arsenous  or  arsenic  acid  the  solutions  of  the  latter  must  be  very  carefully  neutralized, 
or,  if  acid,  are  best  tested  with  ammoniacal  solutions  of  copper  and  silver;  but  the  com- 
plete precipitation  of  arsenic  is  most  conveniently  effected  from  an  acidulated  solution 
by  means  of  hydrogen  sulphide ; if  strongly  acid,  the  liquid  should  be  diluted  with  water, 
and  it  is  in  all  cases  advisable,  after  adding  an  excess  of  gas,  to  set  the  mixture  aside 
for  some  time,  if  little  arsenic  is  present,  even  for  twenty-four  hours.  If  not  mixed  with 
other  metals,  the  precipitate  thus  obtained  is  pretty  characteristic,  since  only  two  other 
metals  yield  under  the  same  circumstances  precipitates  of  sulphides  having  a similar 
color — namely,  cadmium  and  tin  in  stannic  compounds.  Cadmium  sulphide  has  a bright 
lemon-yellow  color,  but  is  readily  distinguished  from  the  corresponding  arsenic  com- 
pound by  being  completely  insoluble  in  potassa,  ammonia,  and  ammonium  sulphide  ; on 
the  other  hand,  cadmium  sulphide  dissolves  completely  in  strong  hydrochloric  acid,  form- 
ing cadmium  chloride,  and  giving  off  hydrogen  sulphide,  while  arsenic  sulphide  is  insolu- 
ble in  the  acid  mentioned.  Stannic  sidphide  has  a dusky-yellow  color,  and  dissolves  in 
potassa,  ammonia,  and  ammonium  sulphide,  but  differs  from  arsenic  sulphide  not  only  in 
the  shade  of  color,  but  also  in  its  complete  solubility  in  strong  hydrochloric  acid.  The 
three  sulphides  may  likewise  be  distinguished  from  each  other  by  their  behavior  with 
cyanide  flux , which  is  an  intimate  mixture  of  1 part  of  potassium  cyanide  with  3 parts 
of  anhydrous  sodium  carbonate ; when  heated  with  this  flux  in  the  bulb  of  a Berzelius 
reduction-tube,  arsenic  sulphide  yields,  in  the  cooler  part  of  the  tube,  a sublimate  of 
metallic  arsenic  having  an  iron-gray  color,  and  in  the  upper  portion  of  the  ring  occasion- 
ally a brown  color,  produced  by  the  intimate  mixture  of  metallic  arsenic  with  some  arse- 
nous acid  ; during  the  sublimation  a garlic-like  odor  is  observed ; the  sublimate  volatilizes 


ACIDUM  ARSE  NO  SUM. 


25 


on  the  application  of  heat,  and  condenses  again  in  a cooler  part  of  the  tube,  and,  if 
atmospheric  air  has  been  admitted,  is  partly  or  entirely  converted  into  minute  brilliant 

octahedral  crystals  of 

Fig.  1.  Fig.  2.  arsenous  acid.  Cad- 

mium  sulphide  under 
the  same  circum- 
stances yields  a red- 
brown  sublimate,  con- 
sisting of  cadmium 
oxide,  which  is  not 
volatilized  by  heat ; 
and  tin  sulphide  pro- 
duces no  sublimate, 
but  in  the  fused  mass 
will  be  found  metallic 
grains  of  tin.  The 
above  tests  character- 
ize arsenic  if  in  the 
form  of  solution  and 
if  present  in  more 
than  a very  minute 
quantity.  Tests  of 
still  greater  delicacy 
will  be  described  be- 


i 


Fig.  3. 


low.  Arsenous  acid,  which  is  usually  met  with 
in  cases  of  accidental  or  criminal  poisoning, 
yields,  if  heated  in  a narrow  tube  (see  Fig.  2), 
the  crystalline  sublimate  described  above  ; and 
if  mixed  with  charcoal  or  cyanide  flux,  the 
sublimate  will,  as  in  the  above  case,  consist 
of  metallic  arsenic,  and  this,  on  being  sub- 


Reduction- 
tube  with 
sublimate  of 
arsenous 
acid. 


Sublimate  of  arsenous  acid, 
magnified. 


limed  in  the  presence  of  air,  will  yield  the  same 
crystals. 

In  the  presence  of  much  organic  matter  the  detection  of  arsenic  is  a more  complicated 
process,  involving  the  separation  of  most  of  the  organic  matter,  which  Fresenius  and 
Babo  (1844)  have  accomplished  by  heating  the  mass  in  a water-bath  with  hydrochloric 
acid,  and  adding  to  it  potassium  chlorate  in  small  quantities  until  a thin  liquid  is  pro- 
duced ; if  the  heat  be  not  raised  beyond  the  temperature  of  boiling  water,  no  arsenic 

chloride  will  be  volatilized,  but  the  mixture  becomes  more  liquid  in  proportion  as  the 
solid  organic  substances  are  destroyed.  The  liquid  is  then  filtered,  the  clear  filtrate 
saturated  with  hydrogen  sulphide,  and  the  precipitate,  which  contains  organic  matter, 
treated  with  strong  nitric  acid,  and  subsequently  fused  with  pure  sodium  nitrate, 
whereby  the  organic  compounds  are  completely  destroyed,  and  the  antimony  and  arsenic 
are  converted  into  soluble  arsenate  and  insoluble  antimonate  of  sodium.  On  mixing 
this  residue  intimately  with  about  twelve  times  its  weight  of  an  exsiccated  mixture  pre- 
pared of  sodium  carbonate  3 parts  and  potassium  cyanide  1 part,  the  powder  may  be 
heated  to  redness  in  a reducing-tube  in  a current  of  dry  carbon  dioxide,  when  a 

mirror  of  metallic  arsenic  will  be  obtained,  while  the  presence  of  antimony,  tin,  and 

other  metals  will  not  interfere  with  the  result.  This  method  is  less  delicate  than  others 
mentioned  below ; however,  the  mass  obtained  after  the  destruction  of  the  organic 
matter  and  fusion  with  sodium  nitrate  ma}r  be  dissolved  in  water,  and  this  solution,  after 
acidulation  with  hydrochloric  acid,  may  then  be  treated  again  with  hydrogen  sulphide, 
or  in  Marsh’s  apparatus — in  the  latter  case,  after  evaporation  with  an  excess  of  sul- 
phuric acid  to  expel  the  nitric  acid. 

The  destruction  of  the  organic  matter,  as  described  above,  may  in  some  cases  be 


26 


ACIDUM  ARSENO'STJM. 


omitted,  the  material  being  simply  boiled  with  water  and  the  filtrate  acidulated  with 
hydrochloric  acid,  previous  to  passing  hydrogen  sulphide  through  it.  A solution  suita- 
ble for  the  purpose  may  likewise  be  obtained  by  the  process  of  dialysis,  whereby  mucous, 
amylaceous,  and  albuminous  substances  are  left  behind,  while  the  dialyzed  liquid  con- 
tains the  arsenous  acid,  besides  organic  and  inorganic  salts.  A method  for  converting 
arsenous  acid  and  sulphides  of  arsenic  into  the  volatile  chloride,  which  may  be  readily 
separated  from  the  organic  matter  by  distillation,  was  proposed  by  F.  C.  Schneider 
(1851)  ; it  consists  in  mixing  the  material  with  large  crystals  of  sodium  chloride  equal 
in  weight  to  the  dry  matter,  adding  concentrated  sulphuric  acid,  and  heating  slowly  to 
boiling.  To  avoid  the  generation  of  sulphurous  acid,  an  excess  of  sodium  chloride  must 
be  present  during  the  entire  operation.  A modification  of  this  process,  whereby  the 
sulphides  are  more  readily  decomposed  and  arsenic  acid  is  reduced  to  arsenous  acid,  and 
then  readily  converted  into  chloride,  consists,  according  to  Hager,  in  the  addition  of 
ferrous  chloride  to  the  contents  of  the  retort.  Dr.  Penny  (1852)  suggested  the  thorough 
drying  of  the  material,  mixing  it  with  strong  hydrochloric  acid,  and  then  heating  in  a 
retort  placed  in  a sand-bath.  Dr.  A.  S.  Taylor  observed  that  portions  of  dried  liver  or 
stomach  gave  up  every  trace  of  arsenic  by  one  distillation.  The  distillate  may  be  tested 
for  arsenic  by  the  reagents  mentioned  above,  or  in  Marsh’s  apparatus. 

MarsKs  test  depends  upon  the  formation  of  arsenetted  hydrogen  (arsine)  by  the  action 
of  nascent  hydrogen  upon  the  oxygen  compounds  of  arsenic.  A simple  form  of  Marsh’s 


Fig.  4. 


Marsh’s  test  for  arsenic. 


apparatus  is  shown  in  Fig.  4.  Hydrogen  is  generated  in  a suitable  flask  and  dried  by 
conducting  it  through  a tube  filled  with  fragments  of  calcium  chloride.  After  the  air 
has  been  completely  expelled  and  the  apparatus  filled  with  hydrogen,  some  of  the 
liquid  to  be  tested  is  introduced  through  the  f’unnel-tube,  and  the  escaping  gas  ignited. 
Upon  holding  a piece  of  porcelain  in  the  flame,  a brown-black  spot  of  metallic  arsenic 
will  be  deposited,  which  will  quickly  dissolve  on  the  addition  of  a little  chlorinated 
lime  or  chlorinated  soda  (Bischoff,  1840).  Antimony  compounds  will  yield  a simi- 
lar spot,  which,  however,  is  not  affected  by  the  hypochlorites.  When  a dry 
beaker  or  test-tube  is  held  over  the  jet,  arsenous  acid  is  deposited  upon  the 
inside,  and  may  be  recognized  by  its  crystalline  form  ; and  after  dissolving  it  in  a little 
hot  water  a yellow  precipitate  will  be  obtained  on  the  addition  of  some  solution  of 
silver  ammonium-nitrate.  Antimony  similarly  treated  gives  no  precipitate.  The 
delivery-tube,  which  must  be  of  hard  glass,  may  be  heated  to  redness  by  the  flame  of  a 
gas-lamp,  when  the  hydrogen  arsenide  will  be  decomposed,  metallic  arsenic  being 
deposited.  Antimony  gives  a similar  reaction,  and  the  two  metals  may  be  distinguished 
by  heating  the  deposit  in  contact  with  air,  when  the  arsenic  will  be  converted  into  crys- 
tallized arsenous  acid  ; or  hydrogen  sulphide  may  be  passed  through  the  tube  and  the 
deposit  gently  heated,  when  the  arsenic  will  be  converted  into  yellow  sulphide  and  the 
antimony  into  orange  sulphide.  On  now  passing  dry  hydrochloric  acid  through  the 
tube  the  antimony  sulphide  will  disappear  and  the  arsenic  sulphide  remain  unaffected. 

On  passing  the  hydrogen  gas  from  the  delivery-tube  through  lead  acetate  to  remove 


ACIDUM  ARSEN  OS  UM. 


27 


any  1I2S  into  a solution  of  silver  nitrate,  a black  precipitate  will  be  produced  both 
by" antimony  and  arsenic.  If  the  former,  the  deposit  will  consist  of  a compound  of  anti- 
mony and  silver ; if  the  latter,  metallic  silver  only  is  precipitated,  while  the  solution  con- 
tains the  arsenic  as  arsenous  acid  mixed  with  the  excess  of  silver  salt,  and  on  cautiously 
neutralizing  with  ammonia  a yellow  precipitate  of  silver  arsenite  is  obtained. 

Gutzeit’s  test  ( Phar . Zeitung , 1879,  p.  263).— Into  a test-tube  (about  6 by  | in.)  place 
a single  piece  of  pure  zinc  (weighing  about  1 Gin.),  and  add  about  5 Cc.  of  pure  5 per 
cent,  sulphuric  acid ; now  add  the  liquid  to  be  tested,  which  should  not  be  alkaline  nor 
materially  increase  the  volume  of  the  contents  of  the  tube.  At  once  fasten  over  the 
mouth  of  the  test-tube  a cap  made  of  three  thicknesses  of  pure  filter-paper  free  from 
dust,  and  apply  to  the  upper  paper  1 drop  of  a saturated  aqueous  solution  of  silver 
nitrate,  containing  about  1 per  cent  of  nitric  acid.  Place  the  tube  at  once  in  a box, 
rigidly  excluding  light,  and  examine  the  paper  cap  after  a while.  A bright-yellow  staiu 
will  appear  upon  the  paper — rapidly  if  the  amount  of  arsenic  be  considerable,  slowly  if 
the  amount  be  small ; if  the  yellow  stain  be  moistened  with  water,  the  color  changes  to 
brown  or  black.  (Antimony  colors  the  spot  black  or  brown  without  a previous  yellow 
color.)  The  action  of  hydrogen  arsenide  upon  silver  nitrate  in  the  absence  of  water 
takes  place,  with  the  formation  of  a yellow  compound,  thus : AsH3  -f  6AgN03 

Ag3As3(AgN03)  + 3.HN03.  When  water  is  added,  metallic  silver  is  separated,  show- 
ing a brown  or  black  color  : Ag3As.3(AgN03)+3H20  = 6Ag-|-3HN03+H3As03. 
Since  hydrogen  phosphide  and  hydrogen  sulphide  produce  yellow-colored  compounds 
under  the  conditions  stated  above,  the  zinc  used  in  testing  must  be  absolutely  free  from 
sulphur  and  phosphorus. 

Bettendorff's  test  (1869). — On  adding  some  arsenical  solution  to  a solution  of  stannous 
chloride  in  strong  hydrochloric  acid,  a gradual,  or,  on  heating,  a somewhat  rapid,  reduc- 
tion to  metallic  arsenic  takes  place,  the  deposit  having  a brown  or  black  color  according 
to  quantity.  Dilution  with  water  and  the  presence  of  nitric  acid  or  nitrates  interfere 
with  the  reaction. 

ReinscEs  test  (1843). — If  an  arsenical  solution  is  strongly  acidulated  with  hydrochloric 
acid,  and  heated  to  boiling  in  the  presence  of  a thin  slip  of  bright  copper — or,  according 
to  A.  S.  Taylor,  preferably  of  finest  copper  gauze — the  copper  will  become  tarnished  by 
the  deposition  upon  it  of  metallic  arsenic,  the  film  having  a bluish  or  iron-gray  color 
according  to  quantity ; the  presence  of  nitric  acid  interferes  with  the  reaction.  The 
copper  is  washed  with  water,  dried,  and  heated  in  a narrow  test-  or  reduction-tube,  when 
arsenous  acid  will  be  sublimed  in  the  form  of  octahedral  crystals. 

FleitmanE  s test , like  the  process  of  Marsh  with  its  numerous  modifications,  depends 
upon  the  generation  of  arsenetted  hydrogen  from  zinc  ; instead  of  an  acid,  however,  a 
strong  solution  of  caustic  potassa  or  soda  is  employed,  which  has  the  advantage  of  pre- 
venting the  formation  of  antimonetted  hydrogen.  If  the  gas  is  generated  in  a test-tube 
the  orifice  of  which  is  covered  with  a piece  of  filtering-paper  moistened  with  a solution 
of  silver  nitrate,  the  appearance  of  a black  spot  will  indicate  the  presence  of  arsenic. 
In  applying  this  test  care  must  be  taken  to  prevent  the  paper  from  coming  into  contact 
with  the  alkaline  liquid,  which  would  produce  a similar  color.  A plug  of  cotton  loosely 
inserted  in  the  upper  part  of  the  tube  will  prevent  any  spirting  of  the  liquid.  A strip 
of  paper  moistened  with  solution  of  lead  acetate,  if  colored  brown  or  black  by  the  gas, 
would  prove  the  presence  of  hydrogen  sulphide. 

The  process  has  been  modified  in  various  ways.  Ilimmelmann  (1868)  proposed  to 
generate  the  gas  with  a mixture  of  granulated  zinc  and  powdered  iron,  which  is  warmed 
in  a concentrated  solution  of  ammonium  chloride  rendered  alkaline  by  ammonia.  The 
gas  is  passed  through  a solution  of  zinc  and  ammonium  chloride  into  the  silver  solution. 
Johnson  proposed  aluminum  in  connection  with  potassa  solution  for  the  generation  of 
hydrogen.  In  this  as  in  the  preceding  case  the  metals  employed  are  to  be  previously 
tested  for  the  presence  of  arsenic. 

Much  simpler  is  the  modification  by  E.  W.  Davy  (1876),  who  employs  an  amalgam 
prepared  by  warming  8 or  10  parts  of  mercury,  and  dropping  upon  it  gradually  in  small 
pieces  1 part  of  metallic  sodium.  The  amalgam  should  be  used  only  in  a neutral  or 
alkaline  liquid ; the  gas  is  generated  by  the  action  of  the  sodium  upon  water,  and  the 
presence  of  arsenic  in  it  is  recognized  with  silver  nitrate,  as  stated  above. 

Precautions. — It  is  scarcely  necessary  to  remark  that  when  testing  for  arsenic  all  the 
reagents  must  be  absolutely  free  from  that  metal.  The  purity  of  sulphuric  acid  and 
hydrochloric  acids  is  most  conveniently  ascertained  by  Bettendorff ’s  or  Reinsch’s  process, 
and  the  purity  of  zinc  by  that  of  Gutzeit.  The  use  of  copper  for  the  purpose  referred 


28 


AC1DUM  A USE  NOSUM. 


to  is  not,  as  a rule,  interfered  with  by  its  containing  arsenic,  but  the  presence  of  the 
latter  may  be  readily  detected,  according  to  Odling  (1863),  by  heating  it  in  a retort  with 
six  times  its  weight  of  ferric  chloride  and  an  excess  of  hydrochloric  acid,  when  chloride 
of  arsenic  will  distil  over  and  give  the  usual  reactions  of  arsenic  compounds. 

In  forensic  analysis  it  is  usually  required  that  the  arsenic  be  separated  in  the  metallic 
state,  and  that  the  quantity  of  the  poison  be  estimated.  The  former  is  accomplished  by 
the  methods  described  above ; the  latter,  by  weighing  the  metal  deposited  in  the  heated 
delivery-tube  of  Marsh’s  apparatus,  either  upon  the  glass  or  upon  platinum  introduced 
for  the  purpose,  or  by  estimating  it  in  the  form  of  magnesium  pyro-arsenate. 

Action  and  Uses. — Arsenic  is  poisonous  to  all  animal  and  vegetable  life.  It  acts 
locally  as  an  irritant,  and  through  the  blood  upon  the  tissues,  impairing  their  nutrition. 
Its  soluble  preparations  may  be  absorbed  by  all  the  tissues.  If  taken  in  large  doses,  it 
occasions  violent  reaction  and  disorganization,  but  in  minute  doses,  long  continued,  it 
may  be  tolerated,  and  even  seem  to  be  salutary  in  its  operation,  especially  in  preventing 
anhelation  in  mountain-climbing.  Its  injurious  chronic  effects  consist  of  impaired  gastro- 
intestinal vigor,  vomiting  and  purging,  various  disorders  of  the  skin,  including  shedding  of 
the  nails  and  hair,  irritability  of  the  nervous  system,  and  paralysis.  Acute  arsenical  poison- 
ing presents  the  following  as  leading  symptoms : constriction  and  heat  of  the  fauces, 
burning  pain  in  the  abdomen,  violent  retching  and  vomiting,  thirst,  bloody  stools,  stran- 
gury, spasms,  dyspnoea,  and  collapse.  The  remedial  operation  of  arsenic  seems  to  be  due 
to  its  radical  action  upon  all  the  organs  and  tissues  of  the  body. 

The  use  of  arsenic  as  a remedy  for  intermittent  fever  has  prevailed  in  China  from 
time  immemorial.  As  a substitute  for  the  cinchona  alkaloids  in  its  treatment  it 
has  been  extensively  resorted  to,  and  the  general  result  of  experience  is  that  it  is 
not  comparable  to  the  latter  medicines  in  efficacy.  The  greater  number  of  cases  in 
which  it  shows  a decidedly  curative  operation  are  of  the  chronic  form,  cases  in  which 
quinine  fails  to  effect  a cure,  and  in  which  the  malarial  cachexia  is  distinctly  marked. 
In  these  the  cure  by  arsenic  generally  coincides  with  evidences  of  the  constitutional  ope- 
ration of  the  remedy.  In  various  skin  diseases  arsenic  is  an  invaluable  remedy,  but  is 
especially  so  in  lepra , psoriasis , and  chronic  eczema.  In  a large  proportion  of  cases  of 
these  affections  it  effects  a perfect  cure,  but  in  none  of  them  can  it  be  regarded  in  the 
light  of  a specific.  Some  dermatologists  advise  that  the  medicine  should  be  given  in  very 
small  doses  at  first,  and  gradually  in  larger  doses,  until  its  constitutional  effects  are 
developed ; others  insist  upon  commencing  at  once  with  a full  but  moderate  dose 
(5  minims  of  the  solution),  and  persisting  in  its  use  until  injection  of  the  eyes  or 
swelling  of  the  eyelids  appears,  when  the  dose  should  be  gradually  reduced  until  these 
phenomena  subside.  In  either  case  the  medicine  should  be  continued  for  some  time  after 
the  eruption  has  disappeared.  The  last  point  is  of  essential  importance.  Chronic  eczema 
is  less  amenable  than  the  dry  scaly  eruptions  to  the  use  of  this  medicine,  but  nevertheless 
will  often  yield  to  it  alone.  By  several  dermatologists  arsenic  is  pronounced  a specific 
for  pemphigus , and,  although  this  estimate  of  its  value  is  too  absolute,  there  is  no  doubt 
of  the  superiority  of  the  medicine  to  any  other  in  that  disease.  It  must,  however,  be 
given  perseveringly  and  for  some  time  after  the  disappearance  of  the  eruption,  and  does 
not  dispense  with  the  necessity  of  using  preparations  of  cinchona  and  iron  and  appropriate 
diet  and  regimen.  Syphilitic  eruptions  of  the  skin  are  not  curable  by  arsenic.  Of  that 
most  intractable  of  skin  diseases,  prurigo , arsenic  is  credited  with  a cure  by  Geber.  But 
the  patient  was  young,  and  other  treatment  was  employed  (Boston  Jour.,  Oct.  1880,  p.  396). 
Lichen  ruber , also  a disease  which  is  rarely  cured,  is  stated  by  Koebner  to  have  been  re- 
moved by  hypodermic  injections  of  from  Gm.  0.20-0.40  (npiij-vj)  daily  of  Fowler’s  solu- 
tion, diluted  with  twice  as  much  water.  The*  treatment  lasted  for  2 months  (Med.  News , 
etc.,  May,  1881,  p.  292).  Bromide  of  arsenic  has  also  been  used  with  alleged  special  advan- 
tages in  the  above-named  diseases,  and  particularly  in  psoriasis  vtdgaris , but  the  testimony 
has  not  yet  proved  its  superiority  to  the  usual  arsenical  preparations.  Warts,  especially 
those  which  appear  rapidly  in  large  crops,  may  generally  be  cured  by  arsenic  given  inter- 
nally. Enlarged  lymphatic  glands  (lymphoma),  whether  superficial  or  occupying  the  great 
cavities,  are  singularly  amenable  to  this  medicine  when  the  dose  is  carried  to  the  extent 
of  producing  its  full  constitutional  effects  and  then  gradually  reduced.  When  the  tumors 
were  accessible,  their  injection  with  the  arsenical  solution  (Fowler’s)  has  been  success- 
fully practised.  The  operation  is  apt  to  produce  some  febrile  reaction,  but  leads  to  the 
absorption  of  the  hyperplasia  (Lancet,  Apr.  2,  1887).  It  may  be  mentioned  for  infor- 
mation, but  not  as  an  example  to  be  imitated,  that  Fowler’s  solution  has  been  injected 


A CID  UM  A RSENOS  UM. 


29 


into  the  enlarged  spleen  by  means  of  the  hypodermic  syringe,  and  with  alleged  success, 
although  in  other  cases  the  effects  were  injurious  or  even  fatal  ( Bidl  de  Ther.,  c.  380). 

It  is  reported  that  several  cases  of  obesity  have  been  restored  to  a normal  condition  by 
the  continued  use  of  Fowler’s  solution  in  the  dose  of  5 drops  three  times  a day. 

This  medicine  has  enjoyed  a certain  reputation  in  the  treatment  of  nodosity  of  the  joints, 
both  as  an  internal  medicine  and  under  the  form  of  arsenite  of  sodium  in  baths.  Several 
distinguished  names  vouch  for  its  efficacy,  but  we  have  made  use  of  it  persistently  in 
several  cases  of  the  disease  without  the  slightest  advantage.  In  chorea  it  has  enjoyed  a 
very  high  repute,  so  much  so  as  to  have  been  looked  upon  by  certain  physicians  as  a 
specific ; but,  on  the  other  hand,  some  of  the  best  authorities  do  not  even  refer  to  it 
among  the  remedies  for  the  disease.  The  former  judgment  is  undoubtedly  the  correct 
one ; but  to  ensure  the  efficiency  of  the  medicine  it  must  usually  be  given  so  as  to  induce 
its  constitutional  effects  without  deranging  the  stomach.  Our  own  impression  of  its  value 
is  very  decided  in  those  numerous  cases  in  which  chorea  occurs,  as  it  so  often  does  in 
delicate  children,  from  overstrain  of  the  mind  or  from  any  other  exhausting  excitement. 
In  most  of  these  cases  it  should  be  associated  with  iron.  Its  hypodermic  administration, 
which  has  been  advocated,  and  is  probably  the  most  efficient,  is  painful  and  peculiarly 
objectionable  for  children,  the  usual  subjects  of  chorea. 

The  advantages  of  arsenic  in  neuralgia,  especially  of  the  fifth  pair  and  of  the  intercostal 
nerves,  the  forms  which  most  usually  depend  upon  constitutional  or  acquired  debility, 
have  been  recognized  ever  since  they  were  first  pointed  out  by  Fowler.  It  is  true  that 
the  cases  most  readily  cured  by  it  are  those  of  miasmatic  origin  ; but  whether  the  disease 
depends  upon  miasma  as  a direct  effect,  or  upon  its  indirect  influence  and  the  consequent 
anaemia,  is  not  clearly  determined.  Instances  are  indeed  cited  of  its  effecting  the  cure  of 
traumatic  neuralgia,  but  they  are  very  rare  and  are  open  to  criticism.  Besides  the 
miasmatic  forms,  there  are  but  few  cases  of  neuralgia  which  are  not  benefited,  even  if 
not  cured,  by  arsenic.  The  mode  of  its  action  may  be  inferred  also  from  the  well-known 
fact  that  facial  and  intercostal  neuralgias  are  precisely  those  in  which  iron  is  a very 
efficient  remedy.  It  would  appear  that  large  doses  of  the  medicine  are  sometimes  essen- 
tial to  the  cure,  such  as  Gm.  1.30—2.30  (n^xx-xxx)  of  Fowler’s  solution  at  first,  and  subse- 
quently smaller  quantities  (Francis).  In  certain  cases  sulphate  of  quinine  and  the  arsenical 
medicine,  each  in  half  of  the  full  dose,  have  been  associated  with  results  that  could  not  be 
secured  by  either  alone.  Another  form  of  the  disease,  gastralgia , very  frequently  arises 
under  similar  states  of  the  system,  and  is  often  curable  by  arsenic ; this  is  the  more 
remarkable,  considering  how  frequently  this  neuralgia  is  associated  with  gastric  ulcer, 
and  renders  it  probable  that  both  affections  are  cured  by  the  action  of  arsenic  in  improv- 
ing nutrition.  This  power  is  conspicuously  manifested  by  it  in  many  cases  of  pulmonary 
phthisis.  Under  its  influence  the  bronchial  irritation  and  secretion  decline,  the  hectic 
abates,  the  breathing  grows  calmer,  the  appetite  improves,  flesh  is  gained,  and  life  is  pro- 
longed, if  not  permanently  secured.  It  is  not  in  every  case  that  these  effects  are  wit- 
nessed, nor  is  it  possible  to  determine  in  what  cases  they  may  be  looked  for.  But  it 
would  seem  that  arsenic  is  most  efficient  when  the  bronchitic  element  is  strongest  and 
the  degenerative  process  is  least  active.  This  judgment  is  rendered  probable  by  the 
manifest  benefits  derived  from  the  medicine  in  many  cases  of  chronic  bronchitis  affecting 
the  lower  lobes  of  both  lungs.  In  nearly  all  of  the  diseases  mentioned  in  this  article 
more  or  less  impairment  of  the  blood  exists,  and  many  of  them  are  more  or  less  curable 
by  iron.  Indeed,  in  all  of  them  the  association  of  iron  and  arsenic  is  mor.e  efficient  than 
either  medicine  alone.  In  no  disease  is  this  operation  more  distinct  than  in  chlorotic 
anaemia,  an  affection  in  which  the  nervous  as  well  as  the  blood  element  requires  a specific 
treatment.  The  same  is  true  of  malarial,  puerperal,  and  dyspeptic  anaemia.  Even  in 
that  grave  affection  known  as  pernicious  anaemia,  as  well  as  in  leukaemia  and  pseudo-leu- 
kaemia, which  all  present  this  double  constitution,  arsenic  is  the  most  available  remedy. 
In  the  first-named  disease  Warfinge  obtained  cures  when  iron  remained  inefficient.  These 
results  are  confirmed  by  the  high  authority  of  Wilks  ( Lancet , Apr.  11,  1885),  and 
more  recently  by  the  excellent  reports  of  Dr.  Osier  ( Therap . Gaz.,  x.  741,  and  Boston  Med. 
and  Surg.  Jour.,  Nov.  1888,  p.  454).  Sulphuret  of  arsenic  was  anciently  used  for  asthmatic 
affections.  Many  years  ago  Koepel  employed  Fowler’s  solution  in  spasmodic  asthma,  in 
which  he  was  imitated  by  Trousseau,  who  also  prescribed  cigarettes  made  of  tissue-paper 
impregnated  with  the  same  solution.  Subsequently,  Thorowgood  (1874)  stated  that  this 
solution  is  alike  useful  in  dry  and  in  humid  asthma,  and  that  if  the  affection  is  connected 
with  old  chronic  skin  disease  it  may  be  prescribed  with  every  prospect  of  benefiting  the 
patient.  No  doubt  the  medicine  is  occasionally  efficient  in  pure  nervous  asthma,  but  it  is 


30 


A CID  UM  A RSENOS  UM. 


more  successful  when  the  disease  is  combined  with  chronic  bronchitis  and  emphysema. 
To  the  tonic  and  reconstituent  power  of  arsenic  must  be  attributed  its  utility  in  many 
cases  of  uterine  disorder  due  to  an  enfeebled  constitution  or  to  more  local  causes ; for  it  is 
in  amenorrlioea , menorrhagia,  dysmenorrhcea,  and  leucorrhoea  that  it  has  been  found  effi- 
cient ; and  these  affections,  although  very  different  symptomatically,  may  have  their  root  in 
the  same  organic  debility.  The  utility  of  the  medicine  in  many  cases  of  diabetes  may 
fairly  be  ascribed  to  a like  operation.  They  are  cases  in  which  iron  and  also  strychnia  have 
been  found  useful — cases  in  which  general  debility  is  accompanied  by  a comparatively 
small  secretion  of  urine,  how  high  soever  its  specific  gravity  may  be.  Yet  there  are 
others  which  have  been  materially  improved  by  this  medicine,  although  the  diuresis  was 
profuse.  In  three-drop  doses  it  is  represented  by  Yon  Pap  as  greatly  diminishing  the 
sugar  in  the  urine  in  diabetes,  sometimes  removing  it,  and  in  certain  cases  causing  it  to 
disappear  for  some  time  after  the  arsenic  had  ceased  to  be  given.  (Compare  Quinquaud, 
Bull,  de  Ther.,  ciii.  241.)  Bromide  of  arsenic  is  alleged  to  be  very  efficient  in  the  treat- 
ment of  diabetes , but  there  is  no  evidence  of  its  superiority  over  the  more  usual  arsensical 
preparations. 

In  a case  of  long-continued  albuminuria , apparently  depending  upon  debility  and 
indigestion,  and  in  which  the  presence  of  albumen  in  the  urine  was  not  constant,  Dr. 
Brinton  found  that  small  doses  of  Fowler’s  solution  ^yere  more  efficient  than  any  other 
medicine.  In  the  chronic  diarrhoea  of  children  it  is  reported  to  have  cured  cases  that 
resisted  other  remedies. 

The  treatment  of  cancer  by  arsenic  has  been  both  internal  and  external.  At  one  time 
the  administration  of  iodide  of  arsenic  was  held  by  competent  authorities  to  be  capable 
of  diminishing  the  size  of  cancerous  tumors,  but  the  treatment  has  now  lost  the  credit 
it  once  possessed.  As  a caustic,  arsenic  was  used  for  the  destruction  of  cancerous 
tumors  even  by  the  ancients,  and  throughout  the  course  of  medical  history  examples 
may  be  found  of  faith  in  its  propriety  and  efficacy.  But  in  recent  times  the  practice 
has  chiefly  fallen  into  the  hands  of  quacks  (Am.  Jour.  Pharm.,  lix.  546).  Superficial 
cancers , and  tumors  under  various  names  which  tend  to  occasion  ulceration,  including 
lupus , continue  to  be  occasionally  treated  by  means  of  arsenical  caustics.  Most  of  them 
are,  however,  excessively  painful,  and  if  applied  over  a large  surface  involve  the  risk  of 
producing  poisonous  effects.  Esmarch,  in  the  treatment  of  desperate  cases  too  far 
advanced  for  the  use  of  the  knife,  employed  arsenic  both  internally  and  externally,  the 
former  because  the  medicine  is  supposed  to  promote  the  disintegration  of  albuminous 
compounds ; and  for  the  latter  purpose  he  applied  a powder  composed  of  1 part  each  of 
arsenious  acid  and  sulphate  of  morphine,  8 parts  of  calomel,  and  48  parts  of  powdered 
gum  arabic.  The  powder  was  thickly  strewn  over  the  ulcer  or  wound  every  day ; its 
action  was  powerfully  escharotic,  but  painless,  and  it  neutralized  the  fetor  of  the  sore. 
Kaposi,  after  Hebra,  employs  a paste  composed  as  follows : Arsenious  acid  gr.  x,  facti- 
tious cinnabar  ^ss,  rose-water  ointment  %ss.  Cl  The  healthy  skin  is  not  in  the  least 
affected  by  it,  not  even  excoriated,  whilst  each  individual  lupus  nodule  is  invariably  and 
thoroughly  destroyed.”  Laboulene  removed  epithelial  tumors  without  severe  pain  by 
means  of  2 parts  of  arsenious  acid,  6 parts  of  sulphide  of  mercury  and  12  parts  of  burnt 
sponge,  mixed  and  reduced  by  water  to  a paste.  He  claimed  that  this  preparation  attacks 
the  abnormal  growth,  and  not  the  natural  tissues  (Bull,  de  Therap .,  cv.  143).  Koebner 
cured  a case  of  multiple  sarcoma  of  the  skin  by  injecting  each  of  the  small  tumors  with 
Fowler’s  solution  (Archives  gen.,  Avril,  1883,  p.  496),  and  Blair  employed  the  same 
method  successfully  to  remove  a large  nsevus  of  the  scalp  (British  Med.  Jour.,  Apr.  1884). 
IJnna  recommends  for  the  treatment  both  of  venereal  and  common  warts  the  continuous 
application  of  mercurial  ointment  containing  5 per  cent,  of  arsenic.  The  growths 
disappear  by  reabsorption,  as  in  cases  of  spontaneous  cure  (Practitioner,  xxix.  468). 
The  peculiar  caustic  and  drying  action  of  arsenic  has  long  been  used  to  destroy  the 
exposed  pulp  of  carious  teeth.  About  Gm.  0.001  (-^  of  a grain),  or  from  that  to  Gm. 
0.002  of  a grain),  is  applied  to  the  nerve-pulp  previously  benumbed  by  some 
anaesthetic  or  astringent,  and  securely  covered  to  prevent  its  displacement.  The  pain 
produced  is  severe  in  proportion  to  the  inflammation  of  the  part. 

The  symptoms  of  poisoning  produced  by  arsenic  taken  into  the  stomach  should  be  met 
by  thoroughly  evacuating  that  organ  by  means  of  ipecacuanha,  alum,  or  the  sulphate  of 
zinc  or  of  copper,  and  the  administration  of  tepid  water  containing  white  of  egg,  flour,  or 
lime-water.  If  these  are  unsuccessful,  the  stomach-pump  should  be  speedily  resorted  to, 
after  which  the  hydrated  sesquioxide  of  iron  or  the  hydrated  sulphuret  of  iron  should 
be  largely  administered  as  a chemical  antidote.  The  sacc-harated  oxide  of  iron,  solution 


A CID  UM  BENZOICUM. 


31 


of  perchloride  of  iron,  dialyzed  iron,  and  also  magnesia,  have  been  recommended  with 
the  same  object.  The  tendency  of  the  patient  to  cellapse  is  to  be  counteracted  by  means 
of  hot  bottles,  bricks,  etc.  applied  to  the  limbs  and  back,  and  by  the  cautious  administra- 
tion of  alcoholic  liquors  and  opiates  by  enema. 

Administration. — The  dose  of  arsenious  acid  may  be  stated  to  be  Gm.  0.002-0.004 
(gr.  iV)-  Like  other  preparations  of  the  medicine,  it  should  never  be  given  when 
the  stomach  is  empty,  and  like  them,  also,  its  dose  should  be  gradually  increased  until 
the.  eyes  begin  to  show  signs  of  its  operation  or  the  symptoms  of  the  disease  for  which  it 
is  prescribed  are  ameliorated.  In  the  form  of  “ Asiatic  pills.”  which  also  contain  pepper, 
the  gastric  disorder  due  to  arsenic  is  not  so  apt  to  be  produced.  The  formula  for  them 
is  H.  Arsenious  acid  ; Black  pepper  gix  ; Liquorice-root,  powdered,  and  mucilage,  of 
each,  q.  s.  Mix  and  divide  into  800  pills.  S. — One  or  two  daily.  Each  pill  contains 
about  Jg-  gr.  of  arsenious  acid. 

ACIDUM  BENZOICUM,  U.  8.,  Br JP.  G.  -Benzoic  Acid. 

Acidum  benzoicum  sublimatum , Flores  benzoes. — Flowers  of  benzoin , E.  ; Adde  ben- 
zoique , Fleurs  de  benjovn , Fr. ; Benzoesdure , Benzoeblumen , G.  ; Acido  benzoico , It.,  Sp. 

Formula  HC7H502  C6H5COOH.  Molecular  weight  121.71. 

Origin. — Benzoic  acid  is  contained  in  benzoin,  Tolu  balsam,  Peru  balsam,  storax, 
Botany  Bay  resin,  in  several  other  resinous  exudations,  and  in  certain  plants.  It  was 
described  by  Vigenere  (1608)  as  one  of  the  products  of  the  dry  distillation  of  benzoin, 
and  recognized  by  Lemery  (1675)  and  Scheele  (1775)  as  an  acid.  Liebig  (1830)  found 
it  among  the  products  of  the  dry  distillation  of  hippuric  acid,  and  Dessaignes  (1847) 
obtained  it  from  the  latter  b}T  the  action  of  acids  and  alkalies.  Its  artificial  preparation 
is  described  below. 

Preparation. — Benzoic  acid  may  be  obtained  by  subjecting  benzoin  in  coarse  powder, 
after  removal  of  adhering  moisture  by  careful  warming  or  exposure  over  burnt  lime,  to 
dry  distillation  in  shallow  iron  pans.  The  pan  is  covered  with  a porous  diaphragm,  pref- 
erably of  cloth,  and  then  provided  with  a suitable  condenser  consisting  either  of  a cap 
of  thick,  well-sized  paper  or  a pasteboard  hood  or  box  suitably  lined  with  glazed  paper. 
The  application  of  sand-bath  heat  must  be  carefully  regulated,  as  the  acid  begins  to  sub- 
lime at  100°  C.,  and  at  140°-145°  C.  (293°  F.)  is  volatilized  very  freely.  As  the  tem- 
perature is  allowed  to  rise  to  200°  C.  (392°  F.)  and  over,  the  acid  will  be  contaminated 
with  other  products,  partly  the  result  of  decomposition — these  are  methyl  benzoate, 
C6H5CO(()CH3).  boiling  at  199°  C. ; guaiacol,  C6H4OCH3OH,  boiling  at  200°  C. ; pyro- 
catechin,  C6H4(OH)2,  boiling  at  245°  C.  ; benzylbenzoate,  C6H6COO,  CI12C6H5;  vanil- 
lin, etc.  The  sublimed  acid  obtained  from  the  cooled  apparatus  is  ready  for  use,  but  is 
never  chemically  pure  ; if  made  from  good  benzoin,  the  yield  may  reach  8 or  10  per  cent., 
leaving  often  a still  larger  proportion  in  the  fused  resin,  from  which  it  may  be  obtained 
by  the  wet  process,  to  be  described  presently,  or  the  resinous  mass  may  be  broken  again 
into  small  pieces  and  subjected  to  another  sublimation. 

Various  modifications  have  been  proposed  from  time  to  time  in  the  form  of  sublima- 
tory  apparatus  by  Hager  and  others,  with  a view  of  increasing  the  yield  of  acid  and 
lessening  the  contamination  with  other  volatile  products. 

The  Wet  Process  for  obtaining  benzoic  acid  is  usually  carried  on  as  follows : 4 or  5 
parts  of  powdered  benzoin  and  1 part  of  lime  are  mixed  with  10  parts  of  water,  and  the 
mixture  allowed  to  stand  in  a warm  place  for  some  hours,  replacing  the  water  lost  by 
evaporation  ; 50  parts  of  water  are  now  added,  the  mixture  boiled  down  to  30  parts,  and 
filtered  while  hot.  The  residue  is  again  boiled  with  water,  and  the  mixed  filtrates  are 
supersaturated  with  hydrochloric  acid.  In  this  process,  which  is  essentially  that  of 
Scheele  (1775),  the  benzoic  acid,  together  with  a little  resin,  is  rendered  more  freely  soluble 
in  water  through  the  formation  of  calcium  benzoate.  This  salt  is  decomposed  in  the 
filtrate  by  the  hydrochloric  acid,  with  the  production  of  freely  soluble  calcium  chloride 
and  crystallizing  benzoic  acid,  the  latter  being  contaminated  with  some  resin  and  coloring 
matter,  from  which  it  may  be  freed  by  dissolving  it  in  twenty  times  its  weight  of  boiling 
water,  adding  some  animal  charcoal,  filtering  while  hot,  and  crystallizing. 

In  order  to  impart  to  the  acid  obtained  by  this  method  the  peculiar  aroma  character- 
istic of  the  sublimed  benzoic  acid,  it  has  been  suggested  to  subject  it  to  sublimation  in 
the  presence  of  benzoin,  and  this  plan  is  possibly  followed  by  some  manufacturers. 

Although  sodium  benzoate  is  about  fifteen  times  more  soluble  in  water  than  the  cal- 
cium salt,  and  hence  the  acid  might  be  prepared  from  it  with  smaller  quantities  of  liquid, 


32 


ACIDUM  BENZOIC  UM. 


yet  the  use  of  sodium  carbonate  in  place  of  lime  is  not  to  be  recommended,  as  the  result- 
ing acid  will  be  found  mixed  with  larger  proportions  of  resin  than  that  obtained  by  the 
lime  process. 

The  process  of  Wohler , aiming  at  a pure  product,  particularly  one  free  from  cinnamic 
acid — which  latter  is  often  found  in  benzoin — is  tedious  and  probably  never  followed. 
It  consists  in  digesting  benzoin  with  an  equal  weight  of  alcohol,  and  then  adding 
hydrochloric  acid  until  the  resin  begins  to  separate  ; the  mixture  is  distilled  in  a retort  on 
a sand-bath  at  213°  C.  as  long  as  ethyl  benzoate  passes  over.  The  ethereal  liquid  is 
treated  with  potassium  hydroxide  on  a water-bath,  the  alcohol  recovered,  and  the  result- 
ing potassium  benzoate  decomposed  with  hydrochloric  acid,  yielding  pure  benzoic  acid 
and  potassium  chloride. 

The  process  suggested  by  Wagner  (1879)  has  only  scientific  interest:  Benzoin  is  dis- 
solved in  3 or  4 parts  of  warm  strong  acetic  acid,  and  the  solution  poured  into  4 parts  of 
boiling  water,  when  the  resin  will  be  precipitated  and  the  acid  will  crystallize  from  the 
clear  liquid  on  cooling.  Thus  prepared,  it  has  a pleasant  storax-like  odor. 

Hippuric  acid,  C9H9N03,  obtained  from  the  urine  of  cattle  or  horses,  on  being  boiled 
with  hydrochloric  acid,  is  split  into  glycocoll,  C2H5N02,  and  benzoic  acid ; the  latter  must 
be  purified  from  a fetid  odor  by  recrystallization  and  sublimation  with  benzoin. 

Naphtalene,  C10H6,  when  oxidized  with  nitric  acid,  yields  phtalic  acid,  CfcH604,  the  cal- 
cium salt  of  which,  on  being  mixed  with  calcium  hydroxide  and  heated  to  300°  or  350° 
C.,  is  decomposed  into  calcium  carbonate  and  benzoate,  from  the  latter  of  which  benzoic 
acid  is  liberated  in  the  usual  manner. 

Recently  benzoic  acid  is  extensively  manufactured  from  toluene  (toluol),  C6H5CH3, 
and  the  bulk  of  artificial  acid  is  probably  now  made  by  this  method.  If  chlorine  gas  be 
conducted  into  boiling  toluene  until  an  increase  of  weight  is  no  longer  perceptible,  the 
latter  body  is  converted  into  benzo -trichloride  (trichlormethyl-benzene  or  phenyl  chloro- 
form), CbH5CCl3.  This  liquid,  when  treated  with  water  under  pressure,  yields  benzoic 
and  hydrochloric  acids,  thus:  C6H5CC13-|-2H20  =C6H5COOH  -j-  3HC1.  It  is  important 
that  the  chlorine  gas  be  passed  into  the  boiling  toluene  in  the  presence  of  daylight,  since 
other  products  are  formed  when  light  is  excluded. 

The  U.  S.  P.  recognizes  the  natural  as  well  as  the  artificial  benzoic  acid,  whereas  the 
Br.  and  other  European  pharmacopoeias  specify  the  acid  obtained  by  sublimation  from 
benzoin. 

Properties. — Benzoic  acid  is  in  yellowish-white  feathery  flexible  crystalline  plates 
and  needles,  having  an  agreeable  aromatic  odor  and  a warm  acidulous  taste.  The  odor 
is  due  to  the  presence  of  a small  quantity  of  volatile  oil,  produced  from  the  benzoin 
during  sublimation.  Exposed  to  the  light,  benzoic  acid  sublimed  from  benzoin  becomes 
darker  in  color  and  separates  a few  oily  drops  of  a brown  color.  The  pure  acid  is  white 
and  without  odor.  It  fuses  at  120.5°  C.  (249°  F.),  and  boils  at  239°  C.  (462°  F.),  but 
volatilizes  freely  with  the  vapor  of  boiling  water,  and  more  slowly  at  a somewhat  lower 
temperature.  Its  vapors  are  suffocating  and  acrid,  inciting  to  coughing.  It  is  soluble 
when  pure  in  about  500  parts  ( U.  S.),  370  (P.  6r.),  380  ( F It .)  of  water,  and  in  2 parts 

of  alcohol  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  in  15  parts  of  boiling  water,  and  in  1 part  of  boiling 

alcohol.  It  is  also  soluble  in  3 parts  of  ether,  7 parts  of  chloroform,  and  readily  soluble 
in  carbon  disulphide,  benzene,  fixed  and  volatile  oils,  but  sparingly  soluble  in  benzin. 
Its  solubility  in  water  is  increased  by  several  sodium  salts.  According  to  Bourgoin, 
1000  parts  of  distilled  water  dissolve — 

At  0°  5°  10°  15°  20°  30°  50°  60°  70°  80°  90°  100°  C. 

1.70  1.85  2.10  2.45  2.90  4.10  7.75  11.55  17.75  27.15  40.75  58.75  parts  benzoic  acid. 

According  to  R.  Otto  (1862),  the  benzoic  acids  obtained  from  different  sources  (benzoin, 
oil  of  bitter  almond,  urine,  benzalanin,  etc.)  differ  from  each  other  in  the  degree  of  their 
solubility  in  water.  The  experiments  of  Reichenbach  and  Beilstein  (1865),  however, 
indicate  the  existence  of  but  one  variety  of  benzoic  acid. 

Its  solution  in  strong  sulphuric  acid  is  colorless,  and  when  gently  warmed  brownish, 
and  on  adding  it  to  water  benzoic  acid  is  again  precipitated ; but  the  solution  in  fuming 
sulphuric  acid,  on  being  heated,  gradually  forms  sulphobenzoie  acid,  C7H6S05,  which  is 
deliquescent.  Boiling  nitric  acid  does  not  affect  benzoic  acid,  but  fuming  nitric  acid  pro- 
duces substitution  compounds.  Nascent  hydrogen  causes  deoxidation,  with  the  formation 
of  benzaldehyde  (oil  of  bitter  almond)  and  benzalcohol,  and  the  production  of  crystalline 
hydrobenzoic  acid,  C7H,0O2. 

The  chemical  composition  of  benzoic  acid  is  represented  by  the  formula,  C6H5COOH. 


ACIDTJM  BENZOICUM. 


33 


Its  salts  are  more  or  less  soluble  in  water,  and  many  of  them  also  in  alcohol ; those  with 
the  alkalies  dissolve  very  freely  in  water.  Solutions  of  the  salts  yield  with  neutral  or 
basic  ferric  salts  pale  brownish-red,  and  with  lead  acetate  and  silver  nitrate  white  pre- 
cipitates, which  are  sparingly  soluble  in  water. 

Tests. — Benzoic  acid  should  completely  evaporate  from  platinum-foil.  If  much  char- 
coal be  left  behind,  the  presence  of  other  organic  substances  would  be  indicated,  of  which 
sugar  manifests  itself  by  the  odor  of  caramel,  and  hippuric  acid  by  the  odor  of  hydro- 
cyanic acid,  during  the  application  of  heat,  while  mineral  substances  will  be  left  behind 
as  a fixed  residue.  Since  some  varieties  of  benzoin  contain  cinnamic  acid,  this  should 
always  be  tested  for  before  benzoic  acid  is  prepared.  The  U.  S.  and  German  Pharmaco- 
poeias have  adopted  a test  indicating  the  limit  of  chlorine  componnds  that  may  be 
present  by  igniting  in  a crucible  a dried  mixture  of  0.5  Gm.  of  the  acid,  0.8  Gm.  of  cal- 
cium carbonate,  and  a little  water;  the  residue  is  dissolved  in  water  and  nitric  acid  to  20 
Cc.  of  filtrate,  in  which  the  addition  of  decinormal  silver  nitrate  solution  should  not  pro- 
duce more  than  a faint  opalescence  at  the  utmost.  Cinnamic  acid  is  readily  detected  by 
the  odor  of  oil  of  bitter  almonds  developed,  if  0.5  Gm.  of  benzoic  acid,  0.5  Gm.  potas- 
sium permanganate,  and  5 Cc.  of  water  be  warmed  in  a loosely-stoppered  test-tube  to 
about  45°  C.  (113°  F.)  in  a water-bath,  and  then  tightly  stoppering  the  tube  and  cooling 
with  cold  water. 

Pure  benzoic  acid  does  not  decolorize  a solution  of  potassium  permanganate,  but  the 
odorous  compounds  present  in  the  sublimed  acid  rapidly  deoxidize  it,  both  in  acid  and 
alkaline  solution.  This  test  has  recently  (1881,  1882)  been  perfected  by  C.  Schacht  and 
others,  and  is  applied  by  mixing  .1  Gm.  (1.5  grains)  of  the  acid  and  5 drops  of  perman- 
ganate solution  (1  in  200)  with  5 Cc.  of  distilled  water  or  with  3 Cc.  each  of  potassa 
solution,  sp.  gr.  1.18,  and  distilled  water,  and  heating  the  mixture  just  to  boiling,  when 
complete  decoloration  will  be  at  once  effected  without  the  previous  production  of  a green 
color.  Benzoic  acid  prepared  artificially  or  by  the  wet  process  will  either  not  reduce  the 
permanganate,  or  affect  it  more  slowly  than  the  sublimed  acid.  For  this  reason  C. 
Schneider  has  increased  the  test-liquid  to  16  drops,  which,  when  the  mixture  has  been 
set  aside  for  eight  hours,  will  be  decolorized  only  by  the  sublimed  acid,  but  not  by  the 
other  kinds,  even  if  resublimed  with  benzoin.  In  the  presence  of  cinnamic  acid  reduction 
will  likewise  take  place,  but  at  the  same  time  the  odor  of  oil  of  bitter  almond  will  be 
observed. 

Action  and  Uses. — Taken  internally  in  doses  of  Gm.  1.30  (grs.  xx),  and  repeated 
several  times  a day,  benzoic  acid  irritates  the  throat,  and  is  said  to  occasion  a diffused 
sense  of  warmth  over  the  whole  body,  and  to  increase  expectoration  and  perspiration.  In 
the  urine  it  is  converted  into  hippuric  acid  at  the  expense  of  the  urea. 

It  is  maintained  by  authorities  of  equal  weight  to  be  no  less  advantageous  when  the 
urine  contains  an  excess  of  uric  acid  than  when  it  is  phosphatic.  Certainly,  when  the 
urine  is  excessively  acid,  this  medicine,  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.60  (gr.  x),  dissolved  in  a weak 
solution  of  carbonate  or  phosphate  of  sodium,  will  materially  lessen  its  acidity.  On  the 
other  hand,  phosphatic  urine  may  be  rendered  acid  by  means  of  Gm.  1.33  (grs.  xx)  of 
benzoic  acid  given  twice  a day,  and  at  the  same  time  the  accompanying  local  irritation 
will  subside  whenever  the  phosphatic  state  of  the  urine  is  due  to  derangements  of  the 
bladder.  When,  however,  this  condition  is  owing  to  constitutional  causes,  the  medicine 
is  of  no  avail.  Phosphatic  deposits  are  apt  to  arise  when  the  urine  becomes  ammoniacal 
in  the  bladder  from  the  action  of  fermenting  mucus,  and  to  form  masses  in  layers  upon 
the  lining  membrane,  or  calculous  concretions  of  the  ammoniaco-magnesian  phosphate. 
The  due  administration  of  benzoic  acid  maintains  the  acidity  of  the  urine  and  prevents 
the  formation  of  such  deposits.  It  is  credited  with  possessing  a cholagogue  action, 
which,  however,  is  more  demonstrable  in  its  salts. 

According  to  Senator,  who  employed  benzoic  acid  in  the  treatment  of  rheumatism , it  is 
useless  in  the  subacute  forms  of  the  disease.  In  the  acute  articular  form  its  action  was 
found  very  favorable,  but  inferior  to  that  of  salicylic  acid,  although  it  did  not  produce 
any  disagreeable  effects.  On  the  other  hand,  it  did  not  reduce  the  pulse  or  temperature 
as  much.  It  was  given  to  the  extent  of  Gm.  8—12,  (.^ij-iij)  during  the  day  ( Zeitschrift 
f.  Min.  Med.,  i.  262). 

Incontinence  of  urine , without  any  altered  condition  of  this  secretion,  and  depending 
probably  upon  irritability  of  the  lining  membrane  of  the  bladder,  has  been  frequently 
treated  by  this  medicine  with  success.  It  has  also  been  used  with  apparent  benefit  in 
Bright's  disease  and  albuminuria ; it  seemed  to  cause  the  disappearance  of  albumen  from 
3 


34 


ACIDUM  BORICUM. 


the  urine.  In  chyluria , with  spontaneously  coagulable  urine,  it  has  restored  the  secretion 
to  its  normal  condition  (Am.  Jour,  of  Med.  Sci.,  July,  1882,  p.  263). 

Benzoic  acid  has  some  repute  as  a remedy  for  jaundice,  but  the  conditions  for  its  suc- 
cessful use  are  undetermined.  It  may  be  assumed,  however,  that  it  can  only  be  employed 
with  a hope  of  advantage  when  jaundice  is  due  to  simple  obstruction  of  the  ducts  by 
inspissated  bile,  whatever  may  be  the  remaining  conditions  of  the  liver. 

In  chronic  bronchitis  the  fumes  of  benzoic  acid  have  for  a long  time  been  inhaled 
advantageously,  and  recently  atomized  solutions  of  the  compound  tincture  of  benzoin, 
whose  internal  administration  is  of  much  older  date  in  the  treatment  of  the  same  affection. 

As  a dressing  for  wounds , Richardson  has  recommended  a solution  of  3 drachms  of 
benzoic  acid  in  12  ounces  of  chloroform,  as  also  to  protect  and  deodorize  fetid  ulcers  and 
to  protect  the  hands  in  post-mortem  examinations. 

Administration. — The  dose  of  benzoic  acid  is  from  6m.  0.60-2.60  (10  to  40  grains). 
In  albuminuria  much  smaller  doses,  as  1 or  2 grains,  have  been  found  sufficient.  To 
promote  its  solution  in  water,  4 parts  of  phosphate  of  sodium,  or  11  parts  of  borate  of 
sodium,  may  be  added.  It  may  also  be  administered  in  pills  made  either  with  balsam  of 
fir  or  Castile  soap  (Am.  Jour,  of  Phar.j  Aug.  1880,  p.  406). 

ACIDUM  BORICUM,  V.  8.,  Br.,  B.  G.— Boric  Acid. 

Acidum  boracicum. — Boracic  acid , E. ; Acide  borique  crystallise , Fr.  Cod. ; Borsdure , 
G. ; Acido  borico , F.  It. 

Formula  H3B03.  Molecular  weight  61.78. 

Origin  and  Preparation. — This  acid  was  obtained  by  Homberg  (1702)  by  heating 
borax  with  copperas,  and  subsequently  from  sulphuric  acid  and  borax.  It  was  known  as 
Sal  sedativum  Hombergi  until  Gay-Lussac  and  Thenard  (1804)  proved  it  to  be  an  oxygen 
compound  of  boron.  It  is  a constituent  of  several  minerals,  and  is  present,  mostly  in 
minute  quantities,  in  various  plants,  mineral  waters,  and  sea-water,  and  in  somewhat 
larger  proportion  in  several  of  the  hot  springs  in  Western  North  America.  The  crater 
of  the  Liparian  island  of  Volcano,  situated  north  of  Sicily,  contains  a deposit  of  boric 
acid  mixed  with  sulphur,  and  the  same  acid  is  found  in  the  vapors  which  issue  from  fis- 
sures in  the  volcanic  rocks  of  Tuscany  in  Italy.  These  fissures,  called  soffioni , are  either 
natural  or  made  artificially  by  drilling,  sometimes  to  the  depth  of  150  or  200  feet.  Sur- 
rounding one  or  more  of  the  soffioni  a series  of  basins  or  lagoons  are  constructed  on  the 
side  of  the  mountain,  either  by  excavation  or  masonry,  and  are  then  filled  with  water 
from  a mountain- stream ; the  hot  vapors  in  passing  through  the  water  yield  to  it  boric 
acid  and  heat  the  water  at  the  same  time.  The  solution  of  boric  acid  thus  obtained  is 
passed  from  one  basin  to  another  lower  one,  and  when  sufficiently  saturated  into  a reser- 
voir ; thence  it  is  conducted  into  evaporating-pans,  and  finally  into  vats,  where  the  acid  is 
deposited.  This  crude  product,  of  which  about  200,000  pounds  are  annually  imported 
into  the  United  States,  is  used  in  the  preparation  of  borax  (see  Sodii  boras),  and  from 
this  salt  boric  acid  is  again  prepared  for  medicinal  use. 

10  parts  of  borax  are  dissolved  in  24  parts  of  boiling  water;  the  solution  is  filtered 
while  hot,  mixed  with  6 parts  of  hydrochloric  acid,  and  the  liquid  set  aside  for  a day  in 

a cool  place.  The  crystals  are  collected  either  in  a funnel  or  upon  a strainer,  and  are 

drained  and  washed  with  a little  cold  water,  after  which  they  are  redissolved  in  five  times 
their  weight  of  boiling  distilled  water.  After  a day  or  two  the  crystals  are  collected  as 
before,  washed  with  cold  water  to  remove  the  last  traces  of  adhering  hydrochloric  acid, 
and  dried  in  a moderately  warm  place.  The  yield  is  between  5J  and  6 parts.  The  reac- 
tion which  takes  place  is  explained  by  the  equation  Na2B4O7.10H2O  -f  2HC1  = 4H3B03 
+ 2NaCl  + 5H20.  Sulphuric  acid  may  be  employed  in  the  place  of  hydrochloric  acid, 
but  will  adhere  more  persistently  to  the  boric  acid,  necessitating  two 
Fig.  5.  or  three  recrystallizations. 

Properties. — Boric  acid  crystallizes  in  white,  translucent  six- 
sided  scales,  which  have  a slight  pearly  lustre,  are  somewhat  unc- 
tuous to  the  touch,  inodorous,  and  of  an  acidulous  and  slightly 

acrid  taste.  It  is  soluble  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  in  25.6  parts  of 

water,  15  parts  of  alcohol,  or  10  parts  of  glycerin.  Addition 
of  hydrochloric  acid  increases  its  solubility  in  water  (U.  S.).  The 
taste  of  the  solutions  is  somewhat  astringent  and  sweetish,  and  in 
the  presence  of  salicylic  acid  quite  bitter.  When  heated  it  melts, 
disengaging  vapors  of  water,  which  contain  some  of  the  acid  ; between  80°  and  100°  C. 
it  is  converted  into  metaboric  acid , HB02;  between  140°  and  160°  C.  it  yields  tetra- 


Crystal  of  Boric  Acid. 


ACIDUM  BORIC UM. 


35 


boric  or  pyroboric  acid , H2B407 ; and  at  a red  heat  all  the  water  is  expelled,  boric 
anhydride , B203,  being  left  in  the  form  of  a transparent,  very  hard  but  brittle  glass, 
and  weighing  about  5(3  per  cent,  or  less  of  the  boric  acid  used.  Boric  acid  volatilizes 
appreciably  with  water  at  and  above  60°  C.,  and  with  the  vapors  of  boiling  alcohol ; its 
solution  in  the  latter  burns  with  a green  flame.  It  is  nearly  insoluble  in  ether,  soluble 
in  volatile  oils,  and  at  17°  C.  dissolves  in  6 parts  of  alcohol.  According  to  Brandes 
and  Firnhaber  (1824),  1 part  of  boric  acid  dissolves — 

At  18.8°  25°  37.5°  50°  62.5°  75°  87.5°  100°  C. 

in  25.66  14.88  12.66  10.16  6.12  4.73  3.55  2.97  parts  of  water. 

The  solutions  impart  a red  color  to  blue  litmus-  and  a red-brown  color  to  turmeric- 
paper  ; the  last-named  reaction  is  also  produced  in  the  presence  of  diluted  mineral  acids. 

Boric  acid,  mixed  with  the  salts  of  mineral  acids  and  ignited,  decomposes  all  those 
containing  volatile  acids ; in  aqueous  solution  it  decomposes  the  carbonates  only,  forming 
borates,  of  which  those  with  an  alkaline  base  are  readily  soluble  in  water,  while  most 
others  are  slightly  soluble  or  nearly  insoluble.  On  ignition  they  melt  to  a glass-like 
mass,  and  when  mixed  with  sulphuric  acid  and  alcohol,  on  igniting  the  latter  the  green 
flame  of  free  boric  acid  is  observed. 

Tests. — In  addition  to  its  fusibility,  and  its  complete  solubility  in  water  and  alcohol, 
boric  acid,  dissolved  in  50  parts  of  distilled  water  acidulated  with  nitric  acid,  should 
yield  no  precipitate  with  the  nitrates  of  silver  and  of  barium  (absence  of  hydrochloric 
and  sulphuric  acid),  and  no  dark  color  with  hydrogen  sulphide  either  before  or  after 
neutralization  with  ammonia  (metals).  The  solution  of  1 Gm.  of  the  acid  in  a mixture 
of  1 Cc.  of  hydrochloric  acid  and  49  Cc.  of  distilled  water  should  not  at  once  assume  a 
blue  color  on  the  addition  of  0.5  Cc.  of  potassium  ferrocyanide  solution  (limit  of  iron), 
nor  should  it,  when  heated  on  a clean  platinum  wire,  impart  to  a non-luminous  flame  a 
persistent  yellow  color  (absence  of  sodium).  The  absence  of  earths  is  determined  by 
testing  a 2-per  cent,  aqueous  solution  of  boric  acid  with  ammonium  oxalate  for  calcium, 
and  with  sodium  phosphate  and  ammonia-water  for  magnesium,  which  reagents  should 
yield  no  precipitates  ( U '.  S.).  If  mixed  with  an  excess  of  sulphuric  acid,  the  addition 
of  a crystal  of  ferrous  sulphate  should  not  cause  the  appearance  of  a dark -brown  color 
(absence  of  nitrates). 

Glacialin,  which  has  been  recommended  as  an  antiseptic  and  for  the  preservation  of 
articles  of  food,  is  a mixture  of  boric  acid  6 parts,  borax  3 parts,  sugar  3 parts,  and  gly- 
cerin 2 parts. 

Action  and  Uses. — Although  its  poisonous  action  upon  quadrupeds  is  slight,  boric 
acid  is  an  insecticide,  and  in  the  higher  animals  it  is  rapidly  absorbed  from  all  mucous 
membranes  and  from  all  lesions.  In  this  manner  it  has  sometimes  occasioned  symptoms 
of  irritant  poisoning,  with  diarrhoea,  bloody  urine,  and  collapse.  Boric  acid  has  been 
used  chiefly  as  an  external  application.  According  to  Theobald  {Med.  Record , xvii. 
140),  a solution  of  4 grains  of  the  acid  in  an  ounce  of  water  does  not  irritate  the  con- 
junctiva. He  used  a solution  of  half  that  strength  in  various  forms  of  conjunctivitis , accom- 
panied or  not  with  corneal  ulcer.  It  is,  however,  to  be  noted  that  these  beneficial  results 
followed  not  only  the  application  of  the  acid,  but  the  simultaneous  suspension  of  atropine, 
nitrate  of  silver,  and  other  irritants  that  had  been  in  use.  Finely  powdered  boric  acid 
has  been  a useful  application  to  granular  eyelids  and  to  granular  ulcers  of  various  parts. 
Equal  parts  of  boro-glycerite  (50  per  cent.)  and  vaseline  form  an  ointment  which  is  said 
to  be  superior  to  others  in  the  treatment  of  chronic  inflammations  of  the  conjunctiva, 
and  forms  a convenient  vehicle  for  atropine  and  other  agents.  Catarrhal  obstruction  of  the 
nasal  duct  is  benefited  by  solutions  of  from  3-6  grs.  to  the  ounce.  Greene  ( Boston  Med.  and 
Sarg.  Jour.,  Aug.  1880,  p.  197)  reports  that  an  ointment  of  boric  acid  is  a very  efficient 
dressing  for  wounds  of  large  extent.  Barwell,  Bing,  and  others  have  stated  that  a glyce- 
rite  of  the  acid  is  superior  to  carbolic  acid  for  its  antiseptic  and  cicatrizing  virtues.  The 
antiseptic  properties  of  this  boro-glycerite  have  been  demonstrated  by  ample  experiment, 
and  its  advantages  over  iodoform,  carbolic  and  salicylic  acids  are  claimed  to  be  that  it  is 
unirritating  and  promotes  the  rapid  healing  of  wounds  and  the  drying  up  of  suppurating 
surfaces;  e.g.  vaginitis , purulent  ophthalmia,  otorrhoea,  etc.  {Med.  News , xl.  304,  602). 
Bing  claimed  that  in  all  diseases  of  the  ear  for  which  boric  acid  is  suitable  it  should  be 
applied  in  a fine  dry  powder,  and  not  dissolved  or  suspended  {Centralbl.  f.  Therap.,  iii. 
337).  It  has  been  charged  by  Gruening  with  aggravating  and  rendering  fatal  several 
cases  of  inflammation  of  the  middle  ear  by  preventing  the  escape  of  confined  pus  ; but  the 


36 


ACIDUM  BORICUM. 


general  verdict  of  otologists  appears  to  be  that  it  is  valuable  through  its  mildness 
and  antiseptic  qualities,  its  lightness  and  solubility,  and  the  facility  of  its  removal 
from  the  auditory  canal.  Yet  it  calls  for  close  supervision  {Meyer).  Theobald  prefers 
a saturated  solution  or  else  one  of  Gm.  1 (15  grains)  to  the  ounce  to  the  more  commonly 
used  powder  ( Therap . Gaz .,  xii.  768).  Like  sodium  borate,  which  has  long  been  applied 
to  superficial  lesions  of  the  mucous  membrane,  boric  acid  is  now  used  in  lotions  for  the 
cure  of  the  several  forms  of  stomatitis  and  pharyngitis , including  their  parasitic  form 
(thrush).  Macgregor  has  recommended  (British  Med.  Jour.,  July  11,  1886)  for  a tooth- 
powder  : Boric  acid,  finely  powdered,  40  grs. ; Chlorate  of  potassium,  30  grs. ; Powdered 
guaiacum,  20  grs. ; Prepared  chalk,  60  grs. ; Powdered  carbonate  of  magnesia,  to  ^j  ; 
Attar  of  roses,  i drop.  Greene  ascribed  to  boric  acid  peculiar  virtues  in  healing  ulcers 
that  follow  severe  burns  and  others  of  a foul  and  unhealthy  aspect.  He  preferred  for 
this  purpose  an  ointment  of  vaseline  containing  the  acid.  On  theoretical  grounds  Loe- 
wenberg  proposed  to  substitute  solutions  of  boric  acid  for  the  usual  emollient  or  stimu- 
lant applications  to  boils.  Neumann  applied  it  in  watery  solution  for  parasitic  diseases 
of  the  skin , in  alcohol  for  pruritis  and  urticaria , and  in  an  ointment  for  eczema.  In  pityri- 
asis and  herpes  tonsurans  solutions  of  from  10  to  20  parts  of  the  acid  to  300  of  water  have 
been  recommended.  A vaseline  ointment  containing  about  5 parts  of  the  acid  to  10  or 
15  of  the  excipient  is  a very  serviceable  application  to  eczema, , impetigo,  prurigo,  and  non- 
syphilitic psoriasis.  An  ointment  made  with  8 parts  of  lanolin  to  2 parts  of  boric  acid  is 
also  employed.  Greene  used  a lotion  and  also  an  ointment  of  the  acid  in  erythema , ery- 
sipelas, and  tinea.  In  cases  of  chronic  inflammation  of  mucous  membranes  attended  with 
an  unhealthy  and  especially  a fetid  discharge,  such  as  nasal  catarrh,  ozsena,  cystitis , etc., 
injections  containing  about  8 grains  of  the  acid  to  an  ounce  of  water  have  been  found  to 
correct  the  fetor  and  cure  the  discharge.  It  has  also  been  prescribed  internally  (Rosenthal) 
in  conjunction  with  its  topical  application.  Others  have  employed  it  for  this  purpose,  and 
found  that  it  removed  the  turbidness  of  the  urine  and  lessened  the  irritability  of  the  bladder 
when  given  to  the  extent  of  from  10  to  30  grains  a day.  A similar  solution  is  reported  to 
have  greatly  palliated  the  coryza  of  hay  fever  (Atkinson).  The  insufflation  of  finely- 
powdered  boric  acid  is  preferable  to  its  solutions  after  the  diseased  part  has  been  thor- 
oughly cleansed.  A solution  of  equal  parts  of  boric  acid  and  of  borax  is  preferable  to 
either  alone.  A 1 or  2 per  cent,  solution,  used  as  an  injection,  has  cured  gonorrhoea 
(Kurz  ; Hill).  Fetor  of  the  feet  has  been  corrected  by  causing  the  patient  to  wear  stock- 
ings that  had  been  soaked  in  a saturated  solution  of  boric  acid  and  then  dried  (Practi- 
tioner, xxvii.  401).  Greene,  and  also  Harries,  found  it  useful  as  a topical  application  in 
“ diphtheritic  and  aphthous  inflammation  of  the  fauces.” 

Internally,  boric  acid  is  said  to  correct  the  fetid  and  other  eructations  that  are  apt  to 
attend  fermentative  dyspepsia.  The  large  proportion  of  boric  acid  eliminated  with  the 
urine  suggested  its  employment  to  prevent  the  formation  of  ammonia  in  the  urinary 
passages ; and  it  has  been  found  quite  efficient  in  restoring  ammoniacal  urine  to  its  nor- 
mal condition.  If  it  be  true  that  bougies  coated  with  this  acid  will  cure  gonorrhoea , then 
it  probably  would  be  more  efficient  as  well  as  convenient  if  given  by  the  mouth.  The 
very  improbable  statement  is  made  by  a medical  officer  of  the  Madras  service  that  every 
case  of  cholera  recovered  that  was  treated  by  him  with  10-grain  doses  of  this  agent  every 
two  hours,  associated  with  borax. 

Forster  has  objected  to  the  use  of  boric  acid  to  preserve  food.  He  states  that  it  greatly 
increases  the  fecal  solids  and  the  excretion  of  albuminous  compounds,  even  when  given 
in  a daily  dose  of  seven  or  eight  grains,  and  that  these  effects  continue  for  some  time 
after  the  suspension  of  the  medicine  (Amer.  Jour.  Pharm.,  Nov.  1884,  p.  597). 

Administration. — The  strength  of  the  solutions  for  topical  use  has  already  been 
indicated.  Internally,  according  to  Atkinson  (Practitioner,  xxiv.  254),  the  dose  is  from  Gm. 
0.34-1  (5  to  15  grains) ; but  Greene  (loc.  cit.)  says.  “ I have  repeatedly  given  at  a dose  4 fluid- 
ounces  of  a saturated  solution  which  contained  about  80  grains  of  the  acid,  and  in  several 
instances  patients  have  taken  much  more.  I have  never  known  any  ill  effects  from  it  in 
any  way.  My  ordinary  dose  for  an  adult  is  from  20  to  30  grains.”  Such  doses  are  not 
safe.  It  may  be  given  in  wafers.  The  following  are  formulae  for  ointments:  R.  Boric 
acid,  White  wax,  of  each  1 part;  Paraffine,  Almond  oil,  of  each  2 parts.  R.  Almond  oil, 
210  parts;  Paraffine,  60  parts;  White  wax,  30  parts;  Boric  acid,  60  parts.  In  poison- 
ing by  boric  acid  the  proper  remedies  are  diffusible  stimulants  and  the  hypodermic  admin- 
istration of  morphine. 


ACIDUM  CARBOLICUM. 


37 


ACIDUM  CARBOLICUM,  U.  S. ; Br. ; P.  A. ; P.  G.— Carbolic  Acid. 

Acidum  phenicum  s.  phenylicum,  Phenol. — Phenic  acid,  P heme  alcohol,  Phenol , E. ; 
Acide  phenique , Acide  carbolique,  Phenol , Fr.  Cod.  ; Carbolsdure , P henylsaure , P henyl- 
alkohol,  G.  ; Fenoilo  cristallizzato,  F.  It.  ; Acido  fenico  (carbolico'),  It.  Sp. 

Formula  HC6H50  = C6H5.OH.  Molecular  weight  93.78. 

Origin. — Carbolic  acid  occurs  in  castoreum,  in  the  urine  of  man  and  of  herbivorous 
animals,  and  in  the  products  of  the  dry  distillation  of  various  organic  substances,  such 
as  resins,  bones,  wood,  and  more  especially  coal.  It  is  from  the  latter  source  that  it  is 
obtained  in  the  arts.  It  was  first  obtained  by  Runge  (1834),  and  in  a purer  condition 
by  Laurent  (1840),  who  ascertained  its  composition  and  chemical  behavior. 

Preparation. — That  portion  of  coal-tar  which  is  known  as  dead  oil  is  subjected  to 
distillation.  The  portion  distilling  between  150°  and  200°  C.  (302°  and  392°  F.)  is 
collected  separately,  and  is  twice  rectified  between  170°  and  190°  C.  (338°  and  374°  F.). 
The  product  thus  obtained  is  sold  as  crude  carbolic,  acid,  acidum  carbolicum  crudum, 
IT.  S. ; acide  phenique  cru , Fr.  ; Rohe  Carbolsdure , G.  For  the  purification  of  this  prod- 
uct it  is  agitated  with  warm  concentrated  solution  of  potassa  or  soda,  when  a crystalline 
mass  of  sodium  phenol  or  potassium  phenol  is  obtained,  from  which  the  oily  liquid  is 
poured  off.  The  solid  mass  on  being  heated  to  about  170°  C.  (338°  F.)  parts  with  a 
portion  of  the  adhering  empyreumatic  products,  and  on  being  dissolved  in  water  more 
of  the  oily  impurities  separate,  and  are  removed  from  the  aqueous  solution,  which,  on 
being  supersaturated  with  hydrochloric  acid,  yields  the  phenol  in  the  form  of  an  oily 
liquid.  This  is  repeatedly  agitated  with  solution  of  table-salt,  then  digested  with  cal- 
cium chloride  for  the  purpose  of  removing  the  water,  and  distilled.  The  portion  passing 
over  between  180°  and  190°  C.  (336°  and  374°  F.)  is  collected  separately  and  exposed 
to  a low  temperature,  when  it  solidifies  into  a crystalline  mass,  from  which  the  mother- 
liquor  is  drained  off  and  expressed. 

This  is  essentially  the  process  of  Laurent  (1844).  Another,  proposed  by  H.  Muller 
(1865),  differs  from  the  preceding  mainly  in  the  following  particulars : The  potassium  or 
sodium  phenol  is  diluted  with  water  as  long  as  naphtalene  and  other  empyreumatic 
products  are  separated.  The  liquid  is  exposed  to  the  air  for  some  days,  by  which  it 
acquires  a dark-brown  color.  It  is  filtered  from  the  precipitated  oxidation  products,  and 
then  mixed  with  one-eighth  or  one-sixth  of  the  total  amount  of  sulphuric  acid  which  is 
necessary  for  the  complete  decomposition  of  the  phenate.  Empyreumatic  resins  are 
thus  separated,  and  on  the  addition  of  a second  similar  quantity  of  acid  more  resinous 
products  and  cresylic  alcohol  are  removed,  so  that  a third  portion  of  the  acid  usually 
separates  almost  pure  carbolic  acid,  requiring  distillation  to  obtain  it  crystallized,  or  the 
crude  carbolic  acid  is  treated  several  times  with  soda  solution  sufficient  to  combine  only 
with  a fractional  portion  of  the  phenol,  the  solutions  first  obtained  containing  the  acid  in 
a purer  condition  than  the  last.  It  is  obvious  that  if  either  process  be  interrupted  at 
different  points,  carbolic  acid  varying  greatly  in  degree  of  purity  must  be  obtained. 
The  purification  of  carbolic  acid  on  a large  scale  is  now  generally  effected  by  successive 
treatment  with  lead  oxide,  sulphuric  acid,  and  potassium  dichromate  and  sulphuric  acid. 

Absolutely  pure  carbolic  acid  was  obtained  by  Church  (1871)  from  the  nearly  pure 
commercial  product  by  treating  it  with  a quantity  of  water  (about  20  parts)  insufficient 
to  dissolve  it  completely,  removing  the  undissolved  portion,  and  saturating  the  clear 
aqueous  solution  with  pure  table-salt,  when  the  carbolic  acid  will  separate  as  an  oily 
layer,  requiring  distillation  over  some  quicklime  to  obtain  it  crystallized.  The  portion 
passing  over  up  to  185°  C.  (365°  F.)  has,  at  ordinary  temperatures,  merely  a very  faint 
aromatic  odor. 

Pure  carbolic  acid  is  chiefly  imported  from  England ; most  of  the  impure  acid,  and  a 
very  fair  quality  of  nearly  pure  acid  used  in  this  country,  are  manufactured  here. 

Synthetic  Carbolic  Acid. — Since  1888  considerable  quantities  of  artificial  carbolic 
acid  have  been  placed  upon  the  market.  This  is  prepared  indirectly  from  benzene  (benzol) 
by  first  treating  it  with  fuming  sulphuric  acid  and  moderately  warming  the  mixture, 
whereby  benzene-sulphonic  acid  is  produced,  C6H6  -f-  H2S04  = C6H5S020H  + II20. 
The  acid  thus  formed  is  neutralized  with  potassium  carbonate,  yielding  potassium  ben- 
zene-sulphonate,  and  this  compound  then  fused  with  a large  excess  of  potassium  hy- 
droxide, whereby  potassium  sulphite  and  potassium  phenol  are  formed  [2(C6H5S020K) 
-f-  4KOH  = 2H20  + 2KS03  -f  2C6H5OK].  The  potassium  phenol  is  finally  treated 
in  solution  with  hydrochloric  acid  in  order  to  liberate  the  phenol  or  carbolic  acid,  which 
is  further  purified  by  distillation,  C6H5OK  -f  II  Cl  KC1  + C6II5OH.  The  advantages 


38 


ACIDUM  CARBOLICUM. 


of  the  synthetic  method  are  chiefly  the  absence  of  homologous  products  (cresol,  xylene, 
etc.),  as  the  benzene  can  be  procured  of  great  purity  by  means  of  crystallization. 

Properties. — Crude  carbolic  acid  is  rarely  colorless.  It  usually  has  a more  or  less 
reddish  or  dark-brown  color,  and  gradually  turns  darker  on  exposure  to  air  and  light. 
The  better  qualities  crystallize  almost  completely  below  the  ordinary  temperature,  the 
solidifying  point  being  influenced  by  the  amount  of  water  and  of  oily  impurities  present 
in  it.  The  latter  afe  estimated  by  agitating  the  impure  acid  with  two  hundred  times  its 
bulk  of  warm  water,  and  allowing  the  oily  matters  to  separate,  when  they  should  meas- 
ure not  over  10  per  cent,  of  the  measure  of  acid  employed.  The  aqueous  solution 
should  not  have  an  alkaline  reaction  upon  test-paper,  thus  indicating  that  it  is  not  an 
alkaline  solution  of  carbolic  acid ; and  if  it  yields  a clear  solution  with  water,  not  less 
than  15  parts  of  this  solvent  should  be  necessary  for  this  purpose.  Its  odor  is  more  or 
less  empyreumatic.  In  other  respects  its  properties  agree  with  those  of  pure  carbolic 
acid. 

Absolutely  pure  carbolic  acid  has  a faint  aromatic  odor,  is  colorless,  crystallizes  in 
needles,  and  does  not  absorb  moisture  from  the  atmosphere  (Moss,  1875).  Usually, 
however,  it  retains  a minute  quantity  of  water,  by  which  it  becomes  deliquescent ; with 
a little  more  water  it  forms  an  oily  liquid,  which  crystallizes  at  a lower  temperature, 
and  if  traces  of  the  tar-products  are  present  it  acquires  a reddish  color  on  exposure,  and 
deliquesces  to  a brown-colored  oil.  This  peculiar  red  color  has  been  investigated  by  E. 
Fabini,  and,  according  to  that  author,  is  due  to  the  formation  of  an  organic  coloring 
matter,  named  by  him  phenerytlien , caused  by  the  presence  of  minute  quantities  of 
metal  (probably  copper)  in  the  acid.  Hydrogen  peroxide,  metal,  and  ammonia  must 
be  present  to  produce  the  color ; ammonium  phenol,  being  formed  by  absorption  of 
ammonia  from  the  air,  reacts  with  the  metal  present  in  the  acid,  forming  a metal  phen- 
ate,  and  this  in  turn  is  acted  on  by  hydrogen  peroxide,  yielding  the  characteristic  red 
color.  The  odor  is  modified  by  the  presence  of  a little  cresol.  Carbolic  acid  is  insol- 
uble in  benzin,  but  freely  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  glycerin,  the  essential  and  fatty  oils, 
in  glacial  acetic  acid,  caustic  alkalies,  carbon  disulphide,  and  chloroform,  the  solutions 
in  the  last  two  liquids  separating  all  the  water  present,  the  amount  of  which  may  thus 
be  determined.  Morson  (1872)  observed  that  the  oily  liquid,  either  pure  or  containing 
creosote,  will  dissolve  in  an  equal  bulk  of  glycerin,  and  not  be  reprecipitated  by  water. 
(See  Creosotum.)  Carbolic  acid  dissolves  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  in  about  15  parts  of 
water.  The  solution  is  perfectly  transparent,  and  has  only  a faint  action  upon  blue 
litmus-paper.  Carbolic  acid  is  less  soluble  in  many  saline  solutions  than  in  water ; it 
yields  with  a limited  amount  of  concentrated  solutions  of  the  fixed  alkalies  a crystalline 
mass,  which,  after  being  pressed,  consists  merely  of  carbolic  acid,  and  is  almost  free 
from  potassa  (Calvert,  1865).  Baumann  (1877)  observed  that  carbolic  acid  slowly 
decomposes  a boiling  solution  of  potassium  carbonate,  forming  potassium  phenol,  which 
may  be  obtained  in  crystals  from  alcoholic  ether.  The  fusing-point  of  crystallized  car- 
bolic acid  is  influenced  by  the  amount  of  water  with  which  it  is  combined : the  U.  S.  P. 
does  not  specify  the  melting-point,  but  demands  that  the  congealing-  or  crystallizing- 
point  shall  not  be  below  35°  C.  (95°  F.),  while  the  melting-point  is  placed  not  lower 
than  33°  C.  (91.5°  F.)  (Pr.).  At  about  40°  C.  ( F . It .,  P.  A.),  between  40°  and  42° 
C.  (104°-107°  F.)  ( P.G. ),  an  almost  pure  acid.  The  boiling-point  of  carbolic  acid  is 
given  at  not  higher  than  188°  C.  (370.4°  F.)  (P  S.),  not  higher  than  188.3°  C.  (371°  F.) 
(Br.),  about  180°  C.  (P.  It.,  P.  A.),  between  178°  and  182°  C.  (352.4°  and  359°  F.) 
(P.  G.).  It  must  be  borne  in  mind  that  cresols  which  may  be  present  have  a higher 
boiling-point,  that  the  acid  contains  variable  proportions  of  water,  and  that  a lower 
boiling-point  or  a higher  melting-point  indicates  a purer  and  less  hydrated  acid.  Car- 
bolic acid  volatilizes  slowly  at  ordinary  temperatures,  rapidly  at  the  temperature  of 
boiling  water,  without  leaving  any  residue.  It  has  the  specific  gravity  1.065,  separates 
nitrocellulose  in  a gelatinous  form  from  collodion,  coagulates  albumen,  and  has  a caustic 
acrid  taste,  but  when  largely  diluted  with  water  tastes  sweetish  and  smoky.  The  vapor 
of  carbolic  acid  is  inflammable. 

A piece  of  pine  wood  dipped  into  an  alkaline  solution  of  the  acid,  and  afterward  into 
hydrochloric  acid,  assumes  in  the  course  of  half  an  hour  a deep-blue  color.  According 
to  Tiemann  and  Haarmann,  this  color  is  a characteristic  reaction  of  coniferin.  The  solu- 
tion of  carbolic  acid  has  no  effect  on  polarized  light.  The  concentrated  alcoholic  solution 
yields  with  ferric  chloride  a brown  liquid,  which  on  the  addition  of  much  water  remains 
transparent  and  assumes  a beautiful  and  permanent  violet-blue  color  (Fliickiger,  1872). 
When  heated  in  sealed  tubes  with  ammonia  it  yields  but  small  quantities  of  phenylamine 


A CID  UM  CA  RB  OLIC  UM. 


39 


(aniline,  C6H5H.2N).  Fused  with  excess  of  potassa,  oxybenzoic  and  salicylic  acids  are 
found  among  the  products  of  decomposition.  It  is  oxidized  by  potassium  permanganate, 
yielding  carbon  dioxide  and  oxalic  acid.  Concentrated  sulphuric  acid  converts  it  into 
sulphocarbolic  (phenolsulphonic)  acid,  CsH5HS04.  Under  the  influence  of  nitric  acid 
several  substitution-products  are  formed,  the  most  important  of  which  is  picric  acid. 
Substitution-compounds  are  likewise  formed  with  chlorine,  iodine,  and  bromine.  The 
last-named  element,  acting  either  in  the  form  of  vapor  or  as  bromine-water  upon  an 
aqueous  solution  of  carbolic  acid,  produces  a flocculent  white  precipitate  of  tribromo- 
phenol,  C6H3Br30,  which  crystallizes  from  alcohol  in  silky  needles,  melting  at  98°  C. 
(208.4°  F.).  This  reaction  was  recommended  by  Degener  (1880)  for  the  quantitative 
determination  of  phenol,  and  is  so  delicate  that  a solution  of  the  latter  in  57,000  parts 
of  water  is  still  rendered  turbid  ; it  must,  however,  be  remembered  that  alkaloids,  cresols, 
and  various  other  compounds  are  likewise  precipitated  by  bromine-water. 

Tests. — The  purity  of  carbolic  acid  is  recognized  by  the  properties  described  above, 
by  the  absence  of  all  reaction  upon  red  litmus-paper,  and  by  the  non-production  of  a 
dark  color  or  precipitate  in  the  aqueous  solution  by  hydrogen  sulphide,  proving  the 
absence  of  metallic  compounds. 

The  valuation  of  carbolic  acid  is  prescribed  by  the  U.  S.  P.  to  be  made  with  decinor- 
rual  bromine  solution  (Koppescharr’s  solution  ; see  Volumetric  Solutions),  each  Cc.  of 
which  corresponds  to  0.001563  of  absolute  carbolic  acid.  The  test  depends  upon  the 
formation  of  tribromophenol,  and  is  made  by  adding  to  an  aqueous  solution  of  carbolic 
acid  a slight  excess  of  the  bromine  solution,  adding  potassium  iodide  and  hydrochloric 
acid,  and  finally  titrating  the  iodine  liberated  by  the  excessive  bromine  by  means  of 
decinormal  sodium  thiosulphate  solution.  Having  found  the  excess  of  bromine  solution, 
the  calculation  for  percentage  of  absolute  acid  in  the  sample  is  easily  made  ; for  instance, 
if  0.05  Gm.  carbolic  acid  should  require  exactly  30Cc.  j-q  bromine  solution  for  precipita- 
tion, the  sample  would  be  said  to  contain  93.78  per  cent,  absolute  phenol. 

To  estimate  the  quality  of  commercial  carbolic  acid,  Schoedler  (1872)  recommended 
its  conversion  into  sulphocarbolic  acid  by  heating  it  with  an  equal  weight  of  sulphuric 
acid  to  50°  or  60°  C.,  treating  with  barium  carbonate,  precipitating  the  filtrate  by  sul- 
phuric acid,  and  weighing  the  ignited  barium  sulphate,  100  parts  of  which  correspond  to 
80.69  parts  of  anhydrous  phenol. 

The  presence  of  carbolic  acid  in  watery  solution  may  be  detected,  according  to  E.  Hoff- 
mann (1879)  by  pouring  into  a test-tube  1 or  2 Cc.  of  pure  sulphuric  acid,  adding  but 
not  mixing  the  same  volume  of  aqueous  liquid,  and  dropping  in  small  particles  of  potas- 
sium nitrate,  each  of  which  will  produce  a deep-violet  streak  ; on  agitation  the  liquid 
becomes  violet,  and  on  the  addition  of  water  assumes  a red-orange  color ; y1^  per  cent,  of 
carbolic  acid  is  thus  detected.  Salkowski’s  (1872)  process  consists  in  adding  to  the  sus- 
pected liquid  one-fourth  its  volume  of  ammonia,  and  then  a few  drops  of  solution  of 
chlorinated  lime  (1  part  to  20  parts  of  water).  On  the  application  of  a moderate  heat,  a 
blue  or  greenish  color  will  be  produced,  either  immediately  or  in  the  course  of  fifteen 
minutes,  the  color  changing  to  red  upon  acidulating  with  sulphuric  or  hydrochloric  acid ; 
1 part  of  carbolic  acid  in  4000  may  thus  be  detected.  Bromine  may  be  used  in  place  of 
the  chlorinated  solution  ; the  blue  compound  is  insoluble  in  ether. and  chloroform,  dissolves 
in  alcohol  with  a green  color,  and  changes  with  acids  to  red,  but  becomes  blue  again  by 
ammonia.  Of  still  greater  delicacy  (1  in  200,000)  is  the  test  suggested  by  Plugge 
(1872)  : when  a liquid  containing  carbolic  acid  is  boiled  with  a little  solution  of  mercu- 
rous nitrate  containing  a trace  of  nitrous  acid,  a reduction  of  the  mercurous  salt  occurs, 
and  the  liquid  assumes,  sooner  or  later,  an  intense  red  color. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Acidum  carbolicum  liquefactum,  P.  A.,  P.  G.,  Br. ; Fenolo 
liquido,  F.  It.  Pure  carbolic  acid,  liquefied  with  10  per  cent,  of  water.  10  Cc.  of  this  solution 
of  water  in  phenol  may  be  mixed,  at  15°  C.,  with  2.3  Cc.  of  water  without  producing  permanent 
turbidity^  proving  the  absence  of  an  excess  of  water.  O.  Facilides  (1872)  recommended  lique- 
fying the  phenol  with  10  per  cent,  of  glycerin. 

Aqua  Carbolisata,  P.  G. ; Carbolized  water,  Phenol  water,  E. ; Eau  pheniquee,  Fr. ; Carbol- 
wasser,  Phenolwasser,  G. — Mix  33  parts  of  liquefied  carbolic  acid  with  967  parts  of  distilled 
water. 

It  contains  3 per  cent,  of  pure  carbolic  acid  by  weight,  or  practically  220  grains  in  a pint. 
The  preparation  of  the  Fr.  Cod.  contains  only  0.1  per  cent,  of  phenol  for  internal  use,  and  1 per 
cent,  if  for  external  use. 

Acidum  carbolicum  iodatum,  N.  F. ; Phenol  iodatum,  Iodized  carbolic  acid,  Iodized  phenol, 
E. ; Iodhaltige  Carbolsaure,  G. — Iodine  in  powder,  20  parts;  carbolic  acid,  76  parts;  glycerin, 
4 parts.  Put  the  iodine  into  a flask,  add  the  acid,  previously  melted,  and  the  glycerin,  and 


40 


Acid  um  carbolicum. 


digest  the  mixture  at  a gentle  heat,  frequently  agitating,  until  the  iodine  is  dissolved.  Keep  in 
glass-stoppered  vials  in  a dark  place. 

Carbasus  Carbolata,  N.  F. ; carbolated  gauze. — Resin,  in  coarse  powder,  40  parts  ; castor 
oil,  5 parts ; carbolic  acid,  10  parts ; alcohol,  225  parts ; gauze  muslin,  a sufficient  quantity. 
Dissolve  the  resin,  oil,  and  acid  in  the  alcohol.  Then  immerse  in  the  mixture  loosely-folded 
pieces  of  gauze  muslin  ; allow  them  to  become  thoroughly  saturated  5 then  take  them  out  and 
press  out  the  excess  of  liquid  until  the  weight  of  the  impregnated  gauze  amounts  to  170  parts  for 
every  100  parts  of  the  original  fabric.  Spread  out  the  pieces  horizontally,  and  as  soon  as  the 
alcohol  has  nearly  all  evaporated  fold  and  wrap  the  pieces  in  paraffin  paper,  and  preserve  in  air- 
tight receptacles.  The  impregnated  gauze,  when  dry,  contains  about  2.5  per  cent,  of  carbolic 
acid. 

Lister’s  catgut,  for  ligatures,  is  prepared  by  immersing  for  two  days  200  parts  of  catgut  in  a 
fresh  mixture  of  200  parts  of  phenol  with  4000  parts  of  water  containing  1 part  of  chromic  acid 
in  solution ; the  string  is  then  dried  without  untwisting  it,  and  preserved  in  a solution  of  1 part 
of  phenol  in  5 parts  of  olive  oil. 

Phenol  is  extensively  employed  in  the  manufacture  of  salicylic  acid  and  of  various  dyestuffs, 
like  picric  acid,  phenyl-brown,  corallin  (scarlet),  peonin  (red),  aurin  (yellow),  azulin  (blue),  and 
others. 

Allied  Compounds. — Cresols,  C7HsO  = C6H4CH3OH. — The  compounds  of  this  composition 
are  obtained  from  those  portions  of  coal-tar  which  are  collected  by  distillation  between  200°  and 
210°  C. ; they  may  also  be  obtained  by  fusing  toluene  sulphonic  acid  with  potash.  Metacresol  is 
a thick  liquid  which  boils  at  201°  C.,but  does  not  solidify  even  at — 80°  C.  5 ortho-  and  paracresol 
form  colorless  prisms  with  phenol-like  odor,  and  dissolve  sparingly  in  water ; both  give  a blue 
color  with  ferric  chloride.  Ortho-cresol  melts  at  31°  C.,  boils  at  185°  C.,  and  by  prolonged  heat- 
ing with  potassa  is  converted  into  salicylic  acid ; paracresol  melts  at  36°  C.,  boils  at  198°  C., 
and  by  heating  with  potassa  is  converted  into  paraoxybenzoic  acid.  The  presence  of  cresols 
in  carbolic  acid  lowers  the  melting-point  and  raises  the  boiling-point  of  the  latter. 

The  cresols  possess  strong  disinfectant  and  germicidal  properties,  while  at  the  same  time  they 
are  far  less  poisonous  than  carbolic  acid ; in  form  of  various  combinations  they  have  of  late 
years  come  more  extensively  into  use.  The  more  familiar  compounds  are  creolin,  lysol,  solutol, 
solveol,  saprol,  sozal,  etc. 

Creolin  is  a dark-brown  alkaline  liquid  which  forms  a turbid  milky  mixture  with  water,  but 
is  miscible  in  all  proportions  with  ether,  chloroform,  and  absolute  alcohol.  Two  varieties  of 
creolin  are  found  in  the  market — Pearson’s  and  Artmann’s — the  former  being  a mixture  of 
cresol,  resin  soap,  and  certain  hydrocarbons ; the  latter  is  a solution  of  hydrocarbons  in  cresol 
sulphuric  acid. 

Lysol  is  a brown  clear,  oily-looking  liquid,  with  feebly  aromatic  odor.  It  is  obtained  by  dis- 
solving in  fat  that  portion  of  coal-tar  oil  boiling  between  190°  and  200°  C.,  and  subsequently 
saponifying  with  addition  of  alcohol.  It  is  said  to  contain  50  per  cent,  of  cresol,  and  forms  with 
water  a clear  frothing  saponaceous  liquid : it  is  likewise  soluble  in  alcohol,  chloroform,  glycerin, 
and  benzin.  According  to  Cramer  and  Wehmer,  lysol  is  five  times  stronger  than  carbolic  acid 
and  eight  times  less  poisonous. 

Solutol  is  the  name  given  to  a solution  of  cresol  in  sodium  cresol,  containing  about  60.4  per 
cent,  of  cresol,  of  which  three-fourths  are  combined  with  sodium.  It  is  chiefly  intended  for 
crude  disinfection,  and  occurs  of  two  qualities. 

Solveol  differs  from  the  preceding  in  being  a concentrated  solution  of  cresol  in  water  by  means 
of  sodium  cresotinate.  It  is  comparatively  innocuous,  weakly  inodorous,  and  mixes  clear  with 
lime-water  5 the  presence  of  albumen  does  not  reduce  its  activity. 

Saprol  is  a mixture  akin  to  lysol,  solveol,  etc.,  containing  chiefly  crude  cresols,  together  with 
pyridine  bases  and  hydrocarbons  from  petroleum-refineries.  It  is  inflammable. 

Sozal  is  the  aluminum  salt  of  paraphenol-sulphonic  acid  or  so-called  aluminum  sulphocarbo- 
late,  A12(C6H40HS03)6.  It  occurs  as  a crystalline  granular  powder  of  slight  phenol-like  odor 
and  strongly  astringent  taste.  Sozal  may  be  prepared  by  direct  action  of  phenol-sulphonic  acid 
on  aluminum  hydroxide  or  by  mutual  decomposition  between  the  barium  salt  and  aluminum  sul- 
phate. It  forms  stable  solutions  with  water,  glycerin,  and  alcohol,  and  is  recommended  as  an 
astringent  antiseptic. 

Chlorphenol. — Under  this  name  a liquid  has  been  introduced  from  Italy,  regarding  Avhich 
very  little  is  as  yet  known.  It  is  prepared  by  the  action  of  chlorine  gas  upon  phenol,  with  the 
temperature  kept  low,  while  the  reaction  is  going  on.  In  fact,  the  completed  preparation  must 
be  kept  cool,  owing  to  its  extreme  volatility.  It  is  especially  recommended  by  Passerini  for 
pulmonary  tuberculosis.  The  inhalation  liquid  consists  of  7 parts  of  monochlorphenol  and  3 
parts  of  a mixture  of  alcohol,  eugenol,  and  menthol ; 16-30  drops  are  inhaled  daily,  the  heavy 
vapors  penetrating  into  all  recesses  of  the  lungs.  Chlorphenol  has  also  been  used  as  an  applica- 
tion to  indolent  ulcers. 

Pheno-salyl. — A very  recent  antiseptic  introduced  by  Dr.  De  Christmas  after  some  experi- 
mentation at  Pasteur’s  Institute.  It  is  probably  nothing  more  than  a mere  mixture  of  carbolic 
acid  9 parts,  salicylic  acid  1 part,  lactic  acid  2 parts,  and  menthol  part.  The  menthol  is  added 
to  the  mixed  acids  heated  to  the  point  of  liquefaction  ; the  mixture  is  soluble  in  twenty-five  times 
its  weight  of  water.  Von  Yersin  finds  that  it  possesses  about  double  the  antiseptic  effect  of  car- 
bolic or  salicylic  acid,  and  is  only  inferior  to  mercuric  chloride. 

Sulphophenol,  Orthophenol-sulphonic  Acid,  Aseptol,  Sulphocarbol,  Sozolic  Acid. — Formula 


ACID UM  CARBOLICUM. 


41 


C6H4.0H.S03H.  Mol.  weight  173.64. — Two  or  three  sulphophenols  may  be  obtained  by  the  action 
of  sulphuric  acid  upon  phenol  (carbolic  acid),  the  para-compound  being  produced  at  an  elevated 
temperature,  while  the  ortho-compound  is  formed  in  the  cold  by  leaving  together  for  a week  10 
parts  of  carbolic  acid  and  12  parts  of  sulphhuric  acid;  after  which  time  the  excess  of  the  latter  is 
removed  by  calcium  or  barium  carbonate.  Sulphophenol  is  a reddish-  or  amber-colored  viscous 
liquid,  having  the  spec.  grav.  1.45,  a caustic  taste,  and  a carbolic-acid-like  odor.  It  is  readily 
soluble  in  water,  alcohol,  and  glycerin. 

The  commercial  article,  known  as  aseptol , is  usually  a straw-colored,  slightly  caustic  liquid  of 
the  density  1.167,  and  containing  from  30  to  35  per  cent,  of  ortho-phenolsulphonic  acid.  Its 
aqueous  solution  should  give  no  precipitate  with  barium  chloride. 

Action  and  Uses. — Carbolic  acid  acts  as  a caustic  upon  animal  and  vegetable 
tissues,  and  even  very  weak  solutions  of  it  destroy  small  animals.  Its  action  upon  man 
is  analogous,  and  when  taken  internally  it  irritates  the  gastro-intestinal  canal,  produces 
a feeling  of  intoxication,  and  turns  the  urine  to  a dark  and  almost  inky  color.  These 
phenomena  are  naturally  most  intense  when  a poisonous  dose  of  the  acid  has  been  taken, 
and  there  may  be  added  to  them  graver  symptoms,  such  as  delirium,  dilated  pupils,  coma, 
and  collapse.  When  undiluted  the  acid  becomes  caustic,  and  may  produce  a mummifi- 
cation of  tissue.  The  best  antidotes  to  its  action  are  albuminous  or  oily  liquids  and 
solutions  of  sodium  sulphate. 

Carbolic  acid  has  been  used  as  an  antipyretic,  and  especially  in  typhoid  fever.  It 
undoubtedly  lowers  the  temperature  through  its  poisonous  operation,  but  no  more  than 
any  other  active  medicine  does  it  either  reduce  the  mortality  or  abridge  the  duration  of 
the  disease. 

Robin,  who  tested  the  question  clinically,  concluded  that  this  acid  should  be  banished 
from  the  treatment  of  typhoid  fever.  He  held  that  the  nervous  and  cachectic  phenomena 
observed  during  its  administration  were  chargeable  to  it  ( Archives  gen.,  Fev.  1885,  p.  129). 
Villebrun  also  exposed  the  grave  dangers  attending  the  use  of  enemas  containing  carbolic 
acid  in  the  typhoid  fever  of  children  {Med.  Record  xxviii.  601) ; and  Hujardin-Beau- 
metz  declared  the  acid  to  be  a powerful  and  very  dangerous  medicine  in  this  affection 
{Les  nouvelles  Medications , p.  120).  In  1888,  Hr.  Gramshaw  ( Lancet , June  23,  1888) 
revived  its  use,  but  his  description  of  its  virtues  appears  to  err  by  claiming  for  it  what  no 
other  medicine  has  ever  accomplished.  Its  use  in  scarlatina  and  in  intermittent  fever  has 
also  been  advocated,  but  upon  theoretical  grounds  chiefly.  The  chief  use  of  carbolic 
acid  is  to  prevent  or  delay  fermentation , especially  of  the  putrefactive  sort.  Its  power, 
in  this  respect,  is  almost  identical  with  that  of  the  closely  analogous  product,  creasote. 
It  is  supposed  to  act  by  preventing  the  production  and  multiplication  of  certain  minute 
organisms  upon  which  this  process  is  assumed  to  depend.  Whether  these  organisms  are 
the  causes,  the  concomitants,  or  the  consequences  of  the  process  in  question  is  not  fully 
determined ; but  that  carbolic  acid  restricts  suppuration  and  neutralizes  the  foul  smells 
which  accompany  fermentation  and  gangrene,  as  well  as  those  extricated  during  all  forms 
of  putrefaction , including  the  effluvia  of  dissecting-rooms,  privies,  sewers,  drains,  etc., 
has  become  a matter  of  familiar  experience.  But  there  is  no  reason  to  believe  that 
carbolic-acid  vapor  has  any  power  to  destroy  the  contagia  of  communicable  diseases. 
It.  temporarily  may  suspend  their  action,  but  does  not  destroy  their  source.  Its  strong 
smell  imposes  upon  the  vulgar,  who  have  most  faith  in  what  appeals  most  directly  to  the 
senses.  Its  influence  in  promoting  the  cicatrization  of  wounds  is  readily  understood 
without  the  necessity  of  invoking  its  antiseptic  qualities,  for,  like  many  allied  substances 
(alcohol,  creasote,  terebinthinates),  it  operates  as  a stimulant  of  the  parts  to  which  it  is 
applied,  contracting  and  hardening  them,  while  it  protects  them  from  the  action  of  the 
atmosphere,  and  thereby  limits  those  secretions  which  tend  to  prevent  union  in  wounds, 
while  it  favors  the  natural  processes  through  which  alone  healing  can  take  place.  On 
the  theory  that  they  act  antiseptically,  carbolic-acid  dressings  have  be£n  very  extensively 
used  in  this  country  and  in  Europe,  but  most  of  all  in  Great  Britain  under  the  influence 
of  Prof.  Lister.  The  general  result  is  that  accidental  or  surgical  wounds  treated  by 
carbolic-acid  dressings,  with  a complete  exclusion  of  the  air , are  healed  with  much  less 
fever  and  suffering  and  in  a shorter  time  than  by  any  other  method.  These  benefits  are 
very  conspicuous  in  the  treatment  of  wounded  or  diseased  joints  and  compound  fractures, 
of  chronic  abscess,  and  incisions  made  for  the  ligation  of  arteries.  The  modes  of  em- 
ploying the  method  it  would  be  foreign  to  the  purpose  of  this  work  to  describe ; suffice 
it  to  say  that  as  little  as  possible  of  the  acid  should  be  applied  to  the  affected  tissues, 
but  a liberal  proportion  to  the  dressings.  In  this  manner  the  risks  of  poisoning  are 
diminished.  That  result  was  met  with  five  times  in  the  course  of  four  years  by  Kiister, 


42 


ACIDUM  CARBOLICUM. 


and  of  these  cases  four  were  fatal.  The  same  surgeon,  examining  the  experience  of  others, 
found  seven  mild  cases  of  carbolic-acid  poisoning  with  one  death,  and  thirteen  severe  cases 
with  five  deaths.  Children  are  peculiarly  liable  to  this  danger.  Ever  since  the  first  in- 
troduction of  carbolic-acid  dressings  into  surgery  it  has  been  assumed  that  they  owed 
their  advantages  exclusively  to  the  antiseptic  virtues  of  the  acid.  But,  as  was  intimated 
in  the  second  edition  of  this  work,  and  is  repeated  above,  the  exclusion  of  air  is  an 
essential  part  of  all  antiseptic  dressings.  It  remained,  then,  to  be  determined  whether  or 
not  the  exclusion  of  air  and  of  all  mechanical  hindrances  to  cicatrization  formed  an  indis- 
pensable condition  for  the  primary  healing  of  wounds.  In  the  antiseptic  method,  as 
originally  practised  by  Mr.  Lister,  carbolic  acid  was  not  applied  in  spray,  but  only  in 
lotions,  injections,  and  the  like,  The  observations  and  experiments  of  Trendelenburg, 
Yon  Bruns,  and  others  led  them  to  the  disuse  of  the  spray  as  unnecessary  and  disagree- 
able, but  they  still  employed  the  acid  to  neutralize  the  poisons  which,  as  they  conceived, 
hinder  the  healing  of  wounds,  occasion  erysipelas,  pyaemia,  etc.  Billroth,  after  sufficient 
trial,  abandoned  the  acid  as  a surgical  dressing.  Experience  seems  to  have  shown  that  the 
absolute  cleanliness  of  every  person  and  thing  concerned  in  an  operation  or  dressing  is, 
next  to  a perfect  coaptation  of  the  divided  tissues,  the  essential  condition  of  their  healing  ; 
and  that  with  this  precaution  carbolic  acid,  like  the  sympathetic  powder,  would  cure  a 
wound  if  applied  upon  the  weapon  that  inflicted  it  almost  as  perfectly  as  if  it  were 
irrigated  or  sprayed  upon  the  wound  itself,  This  anticipation,  made  in  1884,  was  realized 
in  1886,  when  Lister  abandoned  carbolic-acid  dressings.  Later  on,  it  was  condemned  by 
Edington,  Terrier  and  others.  Carbolized  oil  is  not  as  apt  as  carbolic  acid  diluted  with 
water  to  occasion  symptoms  of  poisoning. 

Carbolized  spray,  and  also  lotions,  have  been  found  useful  to  stimulate  indolent  and 
atonic  ulcers.  Their  combined  antiseptic  and  stimulant  properties  are  serviceable 
in  many  cases  of  gangrene , both  traumatic  and  spontaneous,  as  in  noma  pudendi, 
gangrene  of  the  lung , and  in  those  cases  of  fetid  discharge  from  the  lungs  which  are 
sometimes  so  distressing  in  phthisis  and  chronic  bronchitis.  In  the  last-named  affections 
it  also  tends  to  lessen  the  secretion  of  mucus  and  pus,  and  is  best  employed  in  the  form 
of  an  atomized  spray.  In  tubercular  phthisis  it  is  often  of  service  by  preventing 

vomiting.  It  is  unnecessary  to  say  that  it  has  no  influence  upon  the  tubercular  element 
of  the  disease ; but  it  does  modify  very  greatly  the  ulcerative  lesions  of  the  lungs  and 
bronchia,  just  as  it  does  wounds  and  ulcers  upon  the  skin,  and  just  as  the  same  effect  is 
produced  by  various  other  stimulants,  including  benzoin,  creasote,  naphtha,  oil  of  turpen- 
tine, etc.  Years  ago  the  emanations  of  illuminating  gas  manufactories  were  supposed  to 
cure  whooping  cough , and  carbolic  acid  has  been  applied,  in  imitation  of  that  treatment,  by 
inhalation.  Some  have  used  the  atmosphere  of  a room  impregnated  with  carbolic  acid 
evaporated  from  extended  cloths,  others  an  atomized  solution  of  from  1 to  2 per  cent, 
strength  (Pick  ; Goldschmidt ; Suckling).  The  latter  was  applied  three  times  a day,  and 
seems  to  have  promptly  diminished  the  number  of  paroxysms  and  shortened  the  duration 
of  the  attack.  Suckling  used  glycerin  of  carbolic  acid  internally,  half  a minim  in 
peppermint-water,  for  a child  a year  old  ( British  Med.  Jour.,  July  24, 1886)  ; and  extraor- 
dinary success  was  claimed  by  Ley  for  the  subcutaneous  injection  of  pure  carbolic  acid 
as  the  surest  palliative  of  the  pulmonary  disorganization  and  the  general  symptoms 
(Bull,  de  Therap.,  cxii.  253).  It  is  probable  that  the  acid  can  palliate  whooping  cough 
only  when  applied  directly  to  the  larynx.  In  diphtheria  the  inhalation  of  a 1 or  2 per 
cent,  solution  of  the  acid  has  been  alleged  to  dissolve  the  false  membrane  (Seiffert) ; 
and  others  have  applied  with  a brush  a mixture  of  equal  parts  of  carbolic  acid  and 
glycerin,  and  limited  its  caustic  action  with  iodoform  (Garnett).  Others,  again,  have 
employed  injections  of  carbolate  of  sodium  in  the  intervals  of  applying  a caustic  solution 
of  carbolic  acid,  but  the  latter  only  in  adults.  Carbolized  camphor  has  been  used  in  the 
same  manner  with  like  results  (Perate).  Stumpf  used  a 5 per  cent,  atomized  solution  of 
carbolic  acid  for  the  space  of  ten  minutes  every  two  hours,  and  claimed  great  success 
from  this  treatment  ( Centralbl.  f.  Iherapie,  iii.  324).  These  methods  may  be  of  service  as 
local  palliatives,  but  diphtheria  is  not  a merely  local  disease.  The  treatment  of  surgical 
ergsipelas  with  hypodermic  injections  of  a 3 per  cent,  solution  of  carbolic  acid  was  prac- 
tised by  Hueter  in  1878.  The  punctures  were  made  at  intervals  upon  the  edge  of  the 
inflammation.  Bothe  used  a liniment  containing,  besides  carbolic  acid,  oil  of  turpentine 
and  tincture  of  iodine,  so  that  the  share  of  the  acid  in  the  result  cannot  be  estimated. 
Tassi  applied  a “ saturated  solution  ” of  the  acid ; and  Badcliffe,  1 part  of  the  acid  to  16 
of  olive  oil  as  a liniment  in  an  aggravated  case  of  erysipelas  of  a lower  extremity,  with 
immediate  relief  and  rapid  amendment  ( Philad . Med,  Times , April,  1881,  p.  455;  Med 


AC1DUM  CARBOLICUM. 


43 


News , lv.  41;  Centralbl.  f.  Ther .,  vii.  295;  Therap.  Monatsheft , iii.  4*73).  The  results  in 
some  of  the  reports  referred  to  seem  to  be  out  of  harmony  with  general  experience. 
Dr.  Squibb  found,  from  extensive  experience  in  his  laboratory,  that  a 1 to  1 per  cent, 
solution  applied  by  means  of  thin  cloths,  frequently  renewed,  will  relieve  the  pain  of 
burns  within  10  minutes,  prevent  the  suppuration  of  superficial  burns,  and  moderate  that 
of  deeper  ones  ( Ephemeris , i.  307).  In  a gargle  it  may  be  used  to  cure  affections  of  the 
throat  accompanied  with  a fetid  secretion.  Its  antiseptic  virtues  are  displayed  in  fer- 
mentative or  flatulent  dyspepsia , although  they  are  inferior  to  those  of  sulphurous  acid 
and  of  salicylic  acid.  This  use  of  the  acid  is  identical  with  that  of  creasote,  which  was 
many  years  ago  in  vogue  to  combat  acidity,  flatulence,  and  other  effects  of  gastric  fermen- 
tation. Claims  have  been  made  for  the  speedy  and  perfect  cure  of  acute  dysentery  by 
means  of  enemas  containing  1 part  of  carbolic  acid  to  500  of  water.  But  they  have  not 
been  substantiated.  Doubtless  this  agent,  like  so  many  other  stimulants  and  astringents, 
may  aid  in  healing  the  rectal  ulcers.  It  is  said  to  be  an  efficient  remedy  for  ascarides  of 
the  rectum  when  administered  by  enema  and  sufficiently  diluted  to  prevent  excessive 
irritation : 6 ounces  of  the  one-fortieth  or  one-sixtieth  solution  have  been  used  for 
adults,  but  it  is  apt  to  occasion  unpleasant  symptoms.  The  medicine  has  been  given  by 
the  mouth  with  alleged  success  for  the  expulsion  of  lumbricoid  worms , and  is  reported 
to  have  destroyed  taenia  when  administered  in  the  dose  of  6 grains  in  half  a pint  of  water 
four  times  a day  (Bill),  or  of  2 grains  in  pill  every  three  hours  until  four  doses  were  taken 
(Brown),  or  of  2±  grains  in  half  an  ounce  of  water  three  times  a day  (Maxwell).  The 
method  does  not  seem  to  have  proved  acceptable.  The  corrugating  and  more  or  less 
caustic  and  yet  anaesthetic  operation  of  the  acid  has  been  employed  in  the  treatment  of 
polypi , venereal  vegetations , naevi,  boils , carbuncles , whitlows , uterine  ulcers , etc.  The  injec- 
tion of  swollen  and  inflamed  haemorrhoids  with  a strong  solution  of  carbolic  acid  was 
practised  in  England  about  1860  by  Mr.  Turner.  He  stated  that  it  coagulated  their 
contents,  and  permitted  them  to  be  squeezed  out  after  incision  of  the  piles.  The  method, 
however,  fell  into  disuse  for  a time,  was  revived  by  quacks,  and  adopted  anew  by 
surgeons.  It  has  been  denounced  as  very  painful  and  liable  to  cause  peritonitis,  pyaemia, 
or  hepatic  embolism.  Larger  experience,  restricting  the  operation  to  external  piles,  a 
due  selection  of  cases,  and  especially  variations  in  the  strength  of  the  solution  used,  are 
said  to  have  overcome  its  greatest  dangers,  which  are  most  apt  to  arise  in  injecting  soft 
haemorrhoidal  tumors.  (Compare  Kinney,  Therap.  Gaz .,  viii.  352 ; Kelsey,  Am.  Jour., 
Med.  Sci.,  Aug.  1885,  p.  170;  Shuford,  Med.  Record , xxxi.  711).  It  is  said  that  more 
recently  (1891)  the  operation  has  been  practically  abandoned.  * 

Varicose  veins , particularly  of  the  lower  extremities,  have  been  treated  by  the  careful 
injection  of  small  quantities  of  the  pure  acid  after  arresting  the  superficial  venous  circu- 
lation by  means  of  Esmarch’s  bandage,  which  is  allowed  to  remain  applied  for  fifteen 
minutes  after  the  puncture  of  the  veins,  and  then  very  gradually  loosened.  A number  of 
punctures  into  the  vein  are  made  about  an  inch  and  a half  apart,  and  the  patient  is  kept 
at  rest  for  a week  (Stevenson.  Lancet , Oct.  1886).  The  treatment  of  boils  by  the 
injection  of  this  acid  was  practised  by  Cliborn,  Surgeon  U.  S.  A.,  in  1868,  and  by  Bidder 
in  1875.  He  employed  a 2 per  cent,  solution,  and  proposed  the  same  method  of  treating 
carbuncles  ( Annuaire  de  Therap .,  1889,  p.  3)  as  had  previously  been  done  by  Eade  in 
1869  (Sansom,  The  Antiseptic  System , p.  272).  Richardson  used  this  method  for  the  latter 
affection  ( Med . Record , xxxii.  188),  and  Chappell  applied  the  pure  acid  by  means  of  a 
dropping-glass  to  the  apertures  found  on  the  surface  of  the  swelling  {ibid.,  xxxiii.  634). 
But  a still  more  superficial  application  has  answered  the  same  purpose.  Verneuil  found 
the  prolonged  and  repeated  use  of  a 2 per  cent,  spray  arrested  the  development  of  boils 
and  carbuncles  of  all  sizes  and  in  every  stage,  and  rendered  surgical  interference 
unnecessary,  while  it  subdued  the  pain  and  fever,  disinfected  the  sore  if  any  existed,  and 
promoted  its  cicatrization  {Annuaire  de  Therap.,  1888,  p.  61).  Blanc  reported  a case 
confirming  these  statements  {Lancet,  June  9,  1888)  ; but  a simple  lotion  will  sometimes 
be  found  sufficient  {Med.  Record,  xxxiii.  520.)  (Compare  Annuaire  de  Therap,  1889,  p. 
327  ; Therap).  Monatsheft , Nov.  1889,  p.  527).  The  strength  of  the  lotion  or  injection 
should  be  from  5 per  cent,  to  10  per  cent.  Haven  treated  a large  number  of  cases  of 
goitre,  all  of  which  were  materially  benefited,  by  the  injection  of  20  or  30  minims  of  a 5 
per  cent,  solution  of  the  acid  into  the  substance  of  the  gland  {Therap.  Gaz.,  x.  844). 
Collins  gave  to  pure  carbolic  acid  a preference  over  nitrate  of  silver  and  sulphate  of 
copper  in  granular  ophthalmia  {Med.  News,  i.  373).  In  hydrocele  concentrated  carbolic 
acid  has  been  injected  into  the  cavity  (Levis),  and  the  cure  is  represented  to  have  been 
painless  as  well  as  radical  (Weber,  Med.  Record,  xxviii.  649).  On  the  other  hand,  severe 


44 


AC1DUM  CARBOLICUM. 


inflammation,  sloughing,  and  non-success  have  been  known  to  follow  it.  For  sore  nipples 
a 5 per  cent,  solution  of  the  acid,  applied  by  means  of  a fine  brush  to  the  fissures,  has 
proved  very  efficient.  According  to  Schwimmer,  a paste  composed  of  carbolic  acid  4 to 
10  parts,  olive  oil  40  parts,  finely-powdered  prepared  chalk  60  parts,  applied  to  the  face 
on  a linen  mask,  causes  the  pustules  of  small-pox  to  dry  some  days  earlier  than  usual. 
A lotion  of  carbolic  acid  is  convenient  to  lessen  the  discharge  and  correct  the  fetor  of 
otorrhoea.  The  same  may  be  used  to  relieve  earache,  or  preferably  a 4 to  10  per  cent, 
solution  of  the  acid  in  glycerin.  The  analgesic  action  of  carbolic  acid  has  been  usefully 
applied  in  small  surgical  operations  by  McNeill,  who  found  that  a solution  of  60  per  cent, 
in  olive  oil,  or  of  80  per  cent,  in  glycerin,  was  efficient.  The  oily  solution  caused  a less 
sense  of  heat  and  corrosion  than  that  in  glycerin  ( Edinb . Med.  Jour .,  xxxi.  1115). 
Ophthalmia  neonatorum  and  other  forms  of  conjunctivitis  have  been  favorably  influenced 
by  this  preparation,  which  has  been  applied  by  some  in  a solution  of  1 : 500,  and  by 
others  of  the  strength  of  1 : 20.  In  either  case  a very  frequent  application  is  required. 
Freckles , it  is  said,  have  been  removed  by  a slight  coating  of  the  pure  acid  after  the  skin 
has  been  thoroughly  washed  and  dried.  There  is  reason  for  admitting  the  efficacy  of  a 
solution  of  1 part  of  carbolic  acid  in  3 or  4 of  alcohol  in  curing  recent  acne  rosacea. 
That  most  obstinate  of  cutaneous  affections,  prurigo , is  said  to  have  been  cured  in  some 
instances  by  carbolic  acid  (Geber),  but  as  arsenic  was  given  internally  at  the  same  time, 
the  conclusion  is  not  certain.  The  acid  is,  however,  very  efficient  in  allaying  the  itching 
of  this  affection  when  applied  in  a 2 per  cent,  solution,  atomized  or  in  lotion  (Lailler). 
A mixture  of  1 part  of  carbolic  acid  and  2 or  3 of  glycerin  has  been  advantageously 
applied  several  times  a day  by  means  of  a mop  to  the  crusts  in  ringworm  of  the  scalp 
(A.  Smith).  Pure  carbolic  acid  applied  to  ivarts,  while  the  surrounding  skin  is  adequately 
protected,  gives  no  pain  and  causes  the  warts  to  shrivel  and  fall  off,  and  is  one  of  the  best 
applications  that  can  be  made  to  bunions.  The  cure  of  alarming  symptoms  produced  by 
the  sting  of  a bee  has  been  attributed  to  the  hypodermic  injection  of  5 milligrams  of  this 
acid  in  solution  (Klamann).  A weak  solution  of  the  acid  forms  a suitable  lotion  for 
diphtherial  and  other  forms  of  sore  throat  attended  with  fetid  discharges.  Like  creasote, 
it  is  an  efficient  palliative  for  toothache  due  to  an  exposed  nerve-pulp.  Idiopathic  sciatica 
and  some  other  neuralgic  and  rheumatic  pains  are  said  by  Schruinpf  to  have  been  cured 
by  deep  injections  of  from  1 to  3 per  cent,  solutions  of  this  acid  ( Med . News , xlii.  386). 
It  is  known  that  similar  injections  of  pure  water,  and  also  acupuncture,  have  been 
followed  by  a like  result.  Kurz  used  this  method  for  muscular  rheumatism  ( Med . Record , 
xxiii.  208),  but,  we  must  believe,  without  necessity,  considering  the  many  simpler  ways 
in  which  the  affection  may  be  cured. 

The  power  of  the  acid  to  check  fermentation  has  led  to  its  use  in  the  treatment  of  sac- 
charine diabetes , on  the  supposition  that  the  disease  is  due  to  an  increase  of  the  ferment, 
which  in  the  liver  converts  amyloid  substance  into  sugar.  The  suggestion  does  not  appear 
to  have  led  to  any  confirmation  of  its  value.  Like  creasote,  which  it  so  closely  resembles, 
carbolic  acid  may  be  used  to  prevent  vomiting  in  cholera,  in  pregnancy,  and  in  all  cases 
which  do  not  involve  inflammation  of  the  stomach. 

The  dose  of  carbolic  acid  is  Gm.  0.06-0.13  (1  or  2 grains  or  drops).  An  atomized 
inhalation  may  be  used,  consisting  of  Gm.  0.10-0.20  (2  or  3 drops)  of  the  acid  in  Gm. 
32  (an  ounce)  of  water,  to  which  a little  glycerin  has  been  added.  For  a gargle,  Gm. 
0.60-0.120  (about  20  drops),  of  the  acid  in  from  2 to  4 fluidounces  of  water  and  glycerin 
may  be  employed.  In  the  following  solution  the  odor  of  the  carbolic  acid  is  masked : 
Carbolic  acid,  1 part;  oil  of  lemon,  3 parts;  alcohol,  100  parts.  Carbolized  cotton  is 
used  as  a surgical  dressing. 

Carbolic-acid  water  ( U.  S.  P.  1870)  was  intended  to  furnish  a perfect  solution  of  car- 
bolic acid  of  determinate  strength.  One  pint  of  it  contained  about  2 fluidrachms  of  the 
acid,  and  it  was  given  internally  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  2-4  (from  \ a fluidrachm  to  1 fluid- 
drachm).  It  is  a convenient  preparation  for  use  in  atomization,  as  a gargle,  and  as  a wash 
in  various  cutaneous  diseases. 

Cresylic  acid  has  been  used  successfully  to  mitigate  the  paroxysms  of  whooping  cough , 
when  its  vapors  were  diffused  through  the  chambers  occupied  by  the  patients  (Merritt, 
Med.  Record , xvi.  549).  It  is  merely  a palliative,  and  almost  identical  with  carbolic  acid 
in  its  action.  Delplanque  found  it  more  antiseptic  than  carbolic  acid  (Bull,  de  Therap., 
cxv.  124). 

Oxynaphtoic  acid  and  its  sodium  salts  are  said  to  be  more  active  than  carbolic  or 
salicylic  preparations  in  preventing  or  arresting  putrefaction  and  as  an  antizymotic.  Solu- 
tions containing  from  1-  to  1 per  cent,  of  the  acid  do  not  derange  the  digestion.  It  passes 


ACIDUM  CARBONJCUM. 


45 


into  the  urine  unchanged.  The  acid  given  internally  to  rabbits,  dogs,  and  sheep  in  doses 
of  Gm.  0.5-3,  and  the  salt  in  doses  of  Gm.  1-4,  caused  death,  with  inflammation  of  the 
mouth  and  gastro-intestinal  canal,  and  congestion  of  the  solid  organs.  Externally 
applied  it  did  not  affect  the  skin.  It  has  cured  some  cases  of  scabies  ( Centralbl.  f.  d.  g. 
Therap .,  vi.  250),  and  some  other  skin  diseases,  and  is  said  to  be  strongly  antiseptic. 
In  solution  of  1 to  100  with  phosphate  of  sodium  it  has  been  used  for  vaginal  injections. 

Chlorphenol  does  not  appear  to  possess  any  other  virtues  than  belong  to  carbolic 
acid.  It  has  been  used  for  similar  purposes. 

Creolin’s  claims  are  similar  to  the  above  and  no  stronger. 

Lysol  as  an  antiseptic  is  held  to  be  superior  to  creolin  and  to  carbolic  acid,  and  less 
irritating  and  poisonous.  It  has  been  used  in  the  treatment  of  gonorrhoea  and  other 
mucous  profluvia,  including  dysentery , cholera  morbus , leucorrhcea , rhinorrlioea , etc.,  and 
for  deodorizing  and  disinfecting  surgical  instruments,  the  articles  in  sick-rooms,  etc. 
For  internal  use  a solution  of  \ of  1 per  cent,  has  been  employed,  and  externally  a 1 
per  cent,  solution. 

Phenosalyl  is  alleged  to  be  more  highly  antiseptic  than  carbolic  or  salicylic  acid. 

Saprol  is  credited  with  a high  degree  of  antiseptic  power,  even  when  applied  in  a 1 
per  cent,  solution. 

Solutol  is  a powerful  disinfectant,  but  its  caustic  properties  forbid  its  being  applied 
to  living  persons.  It  is  said  to  be  “ effective  in  the  preservation  of  the  cadaver.” 

Solyeol  is  destitute  of  causticity  and  the  greasiness  exhibited  by  creolin  and  lysol. 
It  is  peculiarly  fitted  for  surgical  uses,  and  antiseptic  virtues  superior  to  those  of  carbolic 
acid  are  attributed  to  it,  a \ per  cent,  solution  being  more  active  than  a 2 per  cent, 
solution  of  carbolic  acid  (Squibb). 

ACIDUM  CARBONICUM.— Carbonic  Acid. 

Carbonic  anhydride , Carbon  dioxide , E.  ; Acide  carbonique , Fr. ; Kohlensaure , G. 

Formula  C02  = OCO.  Molecular  weight  43.89. 

Formation  and  Preparation. — Carbonic  acid  gas,  as  it  exists  in  certain  mineral 
waters,  was  regarded  by  Libavius  (1591)  as  a very  volatile  spirit.  In  the  following  cen- 
tury Van  Helmont  distinguished  it  and  other  irrespirable  gases  from  atmospheric  air  as 
“ spiritus  sylvestris  ” or  “gas  sylvestre.”  In  the  beginning  of  the  eighteenth  century  F. 
Hoffmann  recognized  the  acid  character  of  carbonic  acid  in  mineral  waters,  and  called  it 
“spiritus  mineralis.”  Joseph  Black  (1755)  observed  that  this  “fixed  air”  combines  with 
alkalies  and  earths  and  increases  their  weight.  Lavoisier  (1775)  proved  this  gas  to  be 
composed  of  carbon  and  oxygen. 

Carbon  dioxide  gas  is  a regular  constituent  of  the  atmosphere,  in  which  it  is  present  to 
the  extent  of  .04  or  .05  per  cent,  by  volume  or  about  .06  per  cent,  by  weight.  In  cer- 
tain localities  it  issues  from  fissures  in  considerable  quantity  ; it  is  a product  of  respira- 
tion of  animal  life  and  of  alcoholic  fermentation,  exists  in  combination  in  many  minerals, 
and  is  formed  on  the  complete  combustion  of  carbon  or  organic  compounds  in  the  presence 
of  an  excess  of  oxygen  ; diamond  and  graphite  require  a high  heat  for  their  combustion. 
Many  organic  compounds  are  readily  oxidized  at  the  ordinary  temperature  by  chromic  or 
permanganic  acid,  with  the  production  of  carbon  dioxide.  But  the  best  sources  for  pre- 
paring carbon  dioxide  in  a pure  state  are  whiting,  marble-dust,  or  similar  native  carbo- 
nates, which  are  decomposed  by  dilute  sulphuric  acid  in  an  apparatus  provided  with  a 
stirrer  to  prevent  the  calcium  sulphate  formed  from  enveloping  the  undecomposed  car- 
bonate. On  a small  scale,  and  for  obtaining  a uniform  current  of  carbon  dioxide  gas, 
fragments  of  marble  and  diluted  hydrochloric  acid  are  used,  whereby  calcium  chloride  is 
formed,  together  with  some  water,  and  remains  in  solution.  CaC03  -j-  2HC1  yields  CaCl24- 
H20  C02.  Should  the  gas  possess  a disagreeable  odor,  it  may  be  deprived  of  it 

according  to  Stenhouse,  by  passing  it  over  granular  charcoal,  or,  according  to  Hager 
(1868),  by  conducting  it  successively  through  solutions  of  ferric  sulphate,  sodium  car- 
bonate, potassium  permanganate,  and  water,  by  which  treatment  it  is  freed  from  hydrogen 
sulphide  and  hydrocarbons. 

A cheap  source  of  carbon  dioxide  is  sodium  bicarbonate,  which  yields  about  half  its 
weight  of  the  gas,  and  when  decomposed  by  sulphuric  acid  gradually  added  will,  in  addi- 
tion, produce  15  parts  of  crystallized  sodium  sulphate  for  every  4 parts  of  the  bicarbonate 
used. 

Properties. — Carbonic  acid — or,  more  properly,  carbon  dioxide — is  a colorless,  unin- 
flammable gas,  which  has  a slight  pungent  odor  and  pricking  acidulous  taste,  colors  moist 


46 


ACIDUM  CARBONICUM. 


litmus-paper  transiently  red,  and  does  not  support  combustion.  It  is  heavier  than  atmo- 
spheric air,  its  specific  gravity  at  0°  C.  being  1.524  as  compared  with  atmospheric  air,  and 
1 litre  of  it  weighing  1.967  Gin.  By  pressure  it  is  converted  into  a very  mobile  colorless 
liquid,  which  is  lighter  than  water,  and  on  the  removal  of  the  pressure  boils  rapidly,  and 
is  partly  converted  into  white  flakes  of  solid  carbonic  anhydride.  It  dissolves  at  15°  C. 
(59°  F.)  in  an  equal  volume  of  water,  and  is  more  soluble  in  alcohol,  absolute  alcohol  of 
15°  C.  dissolving  3 volumes  of  the  gas,  which  is  partly  expelled  on  dilution  with  water. 
It  unites  with  most  of  the  basic  hydroxides,  forming  salts  which,  with  the  exception  of 
the  alkali  carbonates,  are  insoluble  in  water,  but  dissolve  to  a slight  extent  in  carbonic- 
acid  water  and  are  decomposed  by  all  mineral  and  most  organic  acids.  Carbonic  acid  is 
bibasic ; all  the  acid  carbonates  (bicarbonates)  are  decomposed  by  heat,  carbon  dioxide 
being  evolved. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — In  pharmacy  carbon  dioxide  is  almost  exclusively  employed  in  the 
preparation  of  carbonic-acid  water. 

Aqua  acidi  carbonici , U.  S.  1870  ; Aqua  acidula  simplicior,  F.  Cod. ; Aqua  carbonica , Car- 
bonic-acid water , E. ; Eau  gazeuse  simple , Fr. ; Kohlensdure-  Wasser , Brausewasser , G. 

This  water  is  very  extensively  prepared  in  the  United  States  and  sold  under  the  names  of 
soda-water  and  mineral  water.  Several  apparatus  have  been  constructed  and  patented  for  the 
convenient  preparation  of  carbon  dioxide  and  for  charging  the  water  with  this  gas  under 
pressure.  They  consist  of  a generator,  a strong  copper  vessel  into  which  the  powdered  marble, 
whiting,  or  sodium  bicarbonate  is  introduced  with  some  water,  and  which  connects  with  another 
copper  vessel  containing  the  sulphuric  acid,  which  is  admitted  in  small  quantities.  The  gas  is 
first  passed  through  a vessel  containing  water  to  deprive  it  of  impurities,  and  then  to  the  bottom 
of  the  fountain,  as  the  receiving  vessel  is  called,  containing  the  requisite  quantity  of  water.  The 
fountains  are  made  either  of  cast  iron,  well  protected  on  the  inside  by  enamel,  or  of  copper  lined 
with  block-tin  ; or  stoneware  fountains,  secured  by  iron  bands,  are  employed.  The  water,  which 
is  usually  charged  with  from  eight  to  ten  times  its  volume  of  carbon  dioxide,  is  drawn  off 
through  block-tin  pipes,  which  pass  through  a chamber  containing  ice. 

Carbonic-acid  water  has  an  agreeable  acidulous  and  refreshing  taste,  and  effervesces  strongly. 
It  produces  white  precipitates  with  lime-  and  baryta- water,  and  acts  upon  iron,  lead,  and  copper, 
which  metals  are  gradually  dissolved  ; tin  and  silver  are  less  affected  ; hence  the  importance  of 
preventing  the  water  from  coming  in  contact  with  other  metals  except  the  last  two  mentioned. 
It  should  not  be  discolored  by  hydrogen  sulphide  or  ammonia,  and  yields  no  precipitate  with 
sodium  sulphate  or  with  potassium  ferrocyanide. 

Action  aild  Uses. — The  respiration  of  pure  carbonic  acid  is  impossible,  since  an 
exchange  of  gases,  which  is  the  essence  of  the  respiratory  act,  can  no  more  take  place 
in  this  gas  than  it  can  in  water,  and  death  by  asphyxia  is  the  direct  result.  Suffi- 
ciently diluted  with  atmospheric  air,  carbonic  acid  gas  is  more  or  less  respirable.  In  the 
proportion  of  one-half  or  more  its  inhalation  causes  a prickling  in  the  nostrils  and  larynx 
more  agreeable  than  otherwise,  together  with  a sense  of  constriction  and  oppression  in 
the  chest,  headache,  giddiness,  and  ringing  in  the  ears,  followed  by  unconsciousness, 
dilatation  of  the  pupils,  sometimes  congestion  of  the  face,  and,  if  relief  be  not  at  hand, 
fatal  congestion  of  the  brain.  Even  when  the  proportion  of  the  gas  is  smaller,  it  causes 
more  or  less  giddiness,  constriction  of  the  praecordia,  and  feebleness  of  the  legs ; the 
pulse,  which  at  first  is  fuller  and  stronger,  becomes  feebler,  the  respiration  is  slow  and 
shallow,  and  the  mind  and  senses  are  more  or  less  confused.  In  moderate  or  medicinal 
portions  the  primary  action  of  the  gas  is  sensibly  stimulant,  but  secondarily  it  inclines 
to  repose  and  sleep.  In  experiments  on  man  no  evidence  has  been  given  of  the  anaes- 
thetic influence  of  the  gas,  and  it  is  probably  not  developed  until  a state  of  dangerous  nar- 
cotism is  induced.  Some  cases  of  death  are  recorded  from  the  emanations  of  certain 
fissures,  like  the  Grotto  del  Cane.  When  the  body  except  the  head  is  immersed  in  a 
vessel  of  this  gas,  a sense  of  heat  and  prickling  is  experienced  over  the  entire  surface, 
but  especially  where  the  integument  is  delicate,  and  is  accompanied  with  perspiration 
and  redness.  The  pulse,  according  to  some,  is  quickened,  according  to  others  it  is 
retarded.  If  the  operation  is  sustained  for  half  an  hour,  the  head  throbs  and  the  senses 
are  dulled ; the  respiration  is  labored,  and  borborygmi  and  colic  occur.  When  a limb  is 
exposed  for  some  time  to  the  action  of  the  gas,  the  sensibility  of  the  skin  is  obtunded, 
and  if  the  exposed  surface  is  a wound,  it  becomes  the  seat  of  smarting  pain,  followed  by 
impaired  sensibility,  but  the  tissues  grow  redder.  Brown-Sequard  has  shown  that  in 
animals  the  sensibility  and  reflex  excitability  of  the  larnyx  can  be  completely  obtunded 
by  this  gas.  Water  impregnated  with  it  causes  a prickling  sensation  in  the  mouth, 
fauces,  and  nostrils,  a sense  of  warmth  in  the  stomach,  and  a transient  cerebral  excite- 
ment. It  also  appears  to  quench  thirst  far  better  than  water  alone.  The  gas  liberated 
in  the  stomach  is  mainly  discharged  by  eructation,  but  it  seems  to  stimulate  the  gastric 


ACIDTJM  CHROMICUM. 


47 


secretions, and  promote  digestion.  Habitually  used,  carbonated  water  becomes  laxative. 
It  also  increases  the  urine,  and  is  said  to  augument  the  oxalates  and  carbonates  in  that 
secretion. 

The  administration  of  carbonic  acid  gas  by  inhalation  was  at  one  time  in  vogue  as  a 
remedy  for  pulmonary  phthisis,  chronic  bronchitis,  and  laryngeal  diseases.  Many  leading 
English  physicians  vouched  for  its  efficacy,  and  very  possibly  it  may  have  palliated  the 
the  cough  and  lessened  the  secretions  in  these  affections;  but  much  more  efficient  reme- 
dies supplanted  it.  In  1886,  Bergeon  claimed  that  a current  of  carbonic  acid  gas  passed 
through  sulphurous  mineral  water  and  conveyed  into  the  rectum  twice  in  24  hours 
suppressed  all  the  active  symptoms  of  pulmonary  phthisis  (Archives  gen.,  Sept.  1886,  p. 
375)  ;•  but  the  treatment  found  a very  limited  acceptance,  and  the  evidence  in  its  favor  is 
very  slight  (Oliven,  Ther.  Monatsh.,  iii.  100).  Inhalations  of  carbonic  acid  alone  have 
been  used  with  advantage  as  a palliative  of'  the  cough  and  oppression  of  advanced  and 
laryngeal  phthisis  (Weill,  Annuaire  de  Therap.,  1888,  p.  193).  Its  anaesthetic  action 
has  also  been  used  advantageously  for  the  relief  of  whooping  cough  (Campardon).  One 
of  the  most  useful  internal  applications  of  this  gas  is  to  allay  vomiting  caused  by  irrita- 
bility of  the  stomach,  and  even  the  persistent  vomiting  of  pregnancy  (Med.  Record,  xxxiv. 
175).  It  often  subdues  this  symptom  promptly  when  given  in  the  effervescing  draught, 
in  plain  carbonated  water,  in  champagne  wine,  or  in  still  and  dry  white  wines  mixed  with 
such  water.  The  liquid  should  always  be  cold,  and,  if  possible,  iced.  Several  cases  of 
intestinal  obstruction,  the  precise  nature  of  which  does  not  appear,  have  been  relieved  by 
allowing  carbonic  acid  water  to  escape  from  a siphon  bottle  through  a long  tube  into  the 
bowel.  In  one  case  relief  was  obtained  by  injecting  successively  the  two  ingredients  of 
a “ soda  powder  ” in  solution,  and  in  another  by  allowing  the  contents  of  a “ siphon-bottle” 
of  carbonated  water  to  escape  into  the  bowel  (Med.  News , xl.  597). 

The  most  important  uses  of  carbonic  acid  are  those  in  which  it  is  applied  in  water  as  a 
local  stimulant.  There  can  be  no  doubt  that  in  its  combined  stimulant  and  anaesthetic 
properties  reside  the  virtues  which  have  long  been  recognized  in  the  yeast  poultice  and 
other  fermenting  cataplasms  applied  to  ulcers,  simple,  cancerous,  etc.  Injections  of  car- 
bonated water  were  advised  by  Percival  a century  ago  for  the  relief  of  cancer  of  the 
uterus,  rectum,  and  other  parts;  and  a similar  result  has  been  recently  obtained  by  main- 
taining a current  of  the  gas  in  contact  with  the  uterus  in  ulcerated  states  of  that  organ, 
and  also  in  certain  cases  of  uterine  leucorrhoea,  dysmenorrhcea , amenorrhcea,  etc.  It  is 
said  to  give  instant  relief  to  the  pain  of  recent  burns  (Amer.  Jour.  Phar.,  lix.  401),  and 
to  the  pain  of  muscular  rheumatism.  The  carbonic  acid  gas  douche  has  also  been  success- 
fully employed  to  induce  premature  labor.  Whether  it  be  owing  to  a stimulant  action  or 
to  a slightly  anaesthetic  influence,  carbonic  acid  water  certainly  aids  in  causing  the 
stomach  to  retain  what  it  might  otherwise  reject,  as  is  shown  in  the  familiar  and  popular 
habit  of  using  it  as  a vehicle  for  magnesia  and  various  saline  medicines,  and  in  febrile 
and  other  diseases  attended  with  nausea  or  vomiting.  It  possibly  promotes  the  diapho- 
retic action  of  the  effervescing  draught,  and  is  perhaps  more  diuretic  than  simple  water. 
Taken  with  the  food,  it  forms  one  of  the  most  efficient  remedies  for  flatulence. 

The  treatment  of  poisoning  by  this  gas  consists  in  measures  adapted  to  expel  it  from 
the  lungs,  to  stimulate  the  nervous  system,  and  to  introduce  atmospheric  air  or  oxygen 
in  its  place.  For  the  first  purpose  artificial  respiration  by  mechanical  and  electrical 
means  is  indicated ; for  the  second,  active  stimulation  of  the  skin  mechanically  by 
warmth  and  by  irritants,  and  the  injection  of  a strong  infusion  of  coffee  into  the  rectum  ; 
if  any  oxygen  gas  can  be  procured,  it  may  be  forced  through  a larnygeal  tube  into  the 
lungs. 


AOIDUM  CHROMICUM,  V.  S.,  Br.,  JP.  G.— Chromic  Acid. 

Chromium  trioxide,  Chromic  anhydride,  E. ; Acide  chromique,  Fr. ; Chromsdure , G.  ; 
Anidride  cromica,  F.  It. ; Acido  cromico,  It.,  Sp. 

Formula  Cr03.  Molecular  weight  99.88. 

Preparation. — This  acid  was  discovered  by  Vauquelin  in  1797,  but  its  chemical 
composition  was  determined  by  Berzelius. 

When  a solution  of  potassium  dichromate  is  acted  upon  by  sulphuric  acid,  chromium 
trioxide  is  set  free,  as  shown  by  the  following  equation  : K2Cr207  + 2H2S04  ==  2Cr03 
+ 2KHS04  -f-  H20 ; this  is  due  to  the  fact  that  chromic  acid  proper  (H2Cr04)  cannot 
exist  in  a free  state.  When  prepared  by  the  ordinary  methods,  chromic  acid  is  usually 
contaminated  with  sulphuric  acid  and  potassium  salts,  the  former  rendering  it  very 


48 


ACIDUM  CHROMICUM. 


hygroscopic.  Inasmuch  as  the  U.  S.  and  Germ.  Ph.  demand  chromic  acid  free  from  sul- 
phuric acid,  it  is  likely  that  the  following  plan,  first  suggested  by  Bunsen  (1868),  is  now 
more  generally  used : To  a solution  of  2 parts  of  potassium  dichromate  in  20  parts  of 
water  are  added  10  parts  of  sulphuric  acid,  and  the  mixture  set  aside  for  twenty-four  hours  ; 
the  crystals  are  then  collected  upon  a filter  of  asbestos  or  pumice-stone  in  a cylindrical  ves- 
sel, and  are  washed,  under  an  air-pump,  with  strong  nitric  acid,  which  must  be  free  from 
lower  oxides,  until  free  from  sulphuric  acid.  Finally,  the  crystals,  free  from  all  impuri- 
ties, are  dried  in  a current  of  air  heated  to  80°  C.  The  Br.  Ph.  directs  that  chromic  acid 
shall  be  made  by  adding  42  fluidounces  of  sulphuric  acid  to  a solution  of  30  ounces  of 
potassium  dichromate  in  50  fluidounces  of  water  ; after  twelve  hours  the  crystals  of  acid 
potassium  sulphate  are  to  be  removed,  and  after  heating  the  liquid  to  85°  C.  (1859  F.), 
15  fluidounces  more  of  sulphuric  acid  are  to  be  added,  together  with  sufficient  water  to 
redissolve  any  crystrals  of  chromic  acid  that  may  have  formed.  The  mixture  is  allowed 
to  cool ; the  crystals  now  forming  are  collected,  drained,  and  dried  on  porous  tiles  at  a 
temperature  not  exceeding  37.8°  C.  (100°  F.)  in  an  air-bath.  The  acid  obtained  by  this 
process  is  never  free  from  sulphuric  acid,  and  hence  is  very  deliquescent. 

The  use  of  a large  excess  of  sulphuric  acid  in  all  the  processes  is  for  the  double  pur- 
pose of  decomposition  and  final  dehydration  of  the  crystals. 

Properties. — Chromic  acid  occurs  in  needles  or  quadrangular  prisms  of  a deep 
crimson-red  or  purplish-red  color,  inodorous,  deliquescent  in  moist  air  only  if  pure, 
and  very  soluble  in  water ; the  concentrated  solution  is  of  a red-brown  color,  which 
changes  to  orange-  yellow  on  being  diluted ; the  dilute  solution  reddens  blue  litmus- 
paper  and  bleaches  it  on  drying.  Gradually  heated,  the  crystals  assume  a blackish- 
brown  color,  and  at  a temperature  of  192°  C.  (377.6°  F.)  fuse  into  a reddish- 
brown  liquid,  which  on  cooling  becomes  a dark -red,  opaque,  brittle  mass.  At  about  250° 
C.  (482°  F.)  the  acid  is  decomposed  into  oxygen  and  dark-green  chromic  oxide.  If  strong 
alcohol  is  dropped  upon  the  acid,  a vigorous  action  takes  place,  accompanied  with  increase 
of  temperature  and  ignition  of  the  alcohol.  A rapid  ignition  is  likewise  observed  with 
benzene  ; but  ether  which  is  free  from  both  alcohol  and  water  dissolves  this  compound,  and 
on  spontaneous  evaporation  yields  it  again  in  minute  crystals.  Chromic  acid  dissolved  in 
diluted  alcohol  is  gradually  deoxidized  at  the  ordinary  temperature,  the  alcohol  being 
converted  into  aldehyde  and  acetic  acid.  Beduction  takes  place  also  in  the  presence  of 
arsenous  and  sulphurous  acids,  hydrogen  sulphide,  and  of  organic  compounds  and  deoxidiz- 
ing agents  generally.  When  heated  with  hydrochloric  acid,  chlorine  and  green  chromic 
chloride  are  produced. 

Chromic  acid  contains  no  water  of  crystallization  ; its  salts  have  mostly  a yellow  or 
yellowish-red  color ; those  of  the  alkalies  and  of  magnesium  are  soluble  in  water ; all 
others  dissolve  in  nitric  acid. 

Tests. — Sulphuric  acid  and  potassium  salts  are  usually  present  in  small  quantity 
in  the  commercial  article.  The  former  is  detected  by  adding  to  its  hot  aqueous  solution 
some  hydrochloric  acid,  deoxidizing  with  alcohol  until  the  liquid  becomes  green,  and 
then  adding  barium  chloride,  when  a white  precipitate  will  be  produced ; the  latter,  by 
concentrating  the  green  solution  as  much  as  possible,  and  adding  a concentrated  solution 
of  tartaric  acid,  when  crystalline  potassium  bitartrate  will  be  separated;  or  the  chromic 
acid  is  by  ignition  converted  into  chromic  oxide,  and  this  is  treated  with  water,  which  will 
dissolve  potassium  sulphate  and  chromate  if  present.  The  Pharmacopoeia  directs  test- 
ing for  sulphuric  acid  by  barium  chloride  in  a 1 per  cent,  solution  of  chromic  acid  acidu- 
lated with  hydrochloric  acid,  when  no  turbidity  should  be  produced. 

Allied  Acid. — Acidum  osmicum  s.  perosmicum  ; Osmic  acid,  osmicum  tetroxide,  Os04 ; molecu- 
lar weight  254.14.  It  is  obtained  when  very  finely  divided  metallic  osmium  is  heated  to  about 
400°  C.  (752°  F.)  in  a current  of  air  or  oxygen,  the  volatile  tetroxide  being  caught  in  well-cooled 
receivers.  The  sublimed  oxide  occurs  in  lustrous,  transparent  yellow  acicular  crystals,  very 
hygroscopic,  and  with  an  unbearable  penetrating  odor  (the  vapor  is  poisonous).  Its  boiling- 
point  is  about  100°  C.  (212°  F.),  and  it  forms  with  water  a colorless  solution  which  has  an 
intensely  acrid  and  burning  taste,  and  upon  addition  of  sulphurous  acid  is  colored  yellow,  then 
red,  green,  and  finally  blue.  Osmic  acid  liberates  iodine  from  iodides,  is  reduced  from  its  solu- 
tion by  silver  and  other  metals,  and  oxidizes  organic  compounds.  It  has  been  employed  intern- 
ally in  doses  of  0.001  Gm.  (g1^  grain),  and  subcutaneously  in  form  of  a 1 per  cent,  solution 
(which  should  be  freshly  prepared)  in  cases  of  neuralgia,  goitre,  cancroid  and  scrofulous  ulcers, 
and  also  epilepsy. 

See  also  Potassium  Osmate. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — In  prescription  chromic  acid  should  never  be  combined  with  organic 
or  deoxidizing  mineral  compounds.  It  should  never  be  weighed  on  paper,  but  always  on  watch- 


ACIDUM  CIIROMICUM. 


49 


crystals  or  in  weighing-tubes.  In  liquid  form  it  should  be  dissolved  in  distilled  water.  The 
solution  of  the  French  Codex  is  made  of  equal  parts  of  chromic  acid  and  distilled  water,  and  has 
a specific  gravity  of  1.47. 

Liquor  acidi  chromici,  Br. — Chromic  acid  1 part ; distilled  water  3 fluid  parts.  Spec.  grav. 
1.185. 

Action  and  Uses. — Chromic  acid  is  one  of  the  most  energetic  of  caustics.  At  a 
moderately  high  temperature  it  rapidly  dissolves  all  animal  tissues  immersed  in  it, 
including  even  hair,  bones,  and  teeth.  When  at  ordinary  temperatures  it  is  applied  to  the 
skin,  it  renders  that  tissue  moist,  and  then  brown,  and  finally  black,  forming  an  eschar 
of  1 or  2 lines  in  thickness,  which  separates  within  forty-eight  hours,  leaving  a granu- 
lating surface  which  tends  to  heal  rapidly.  According  to  the  degree  of  its  concentration 
it  may  be  deeply  or  superficially  caustic  or  merely  astringent  and  drying.  When  pure 
it  is  said  not  to  be  severely  painful,  but  it  becomes  so  when  it  is  contaminated  with  sul- 
phuric acid  or  arsenic.  Among  caustics  none  is  superior  or  even  equal  to  chromic  acid 
for  the  purpose  of  removing  certain  excrescences  from  the  skin  and  the  mucous  mem- 
branes. Condylomata , warty  growths,  especially  such  as  occupy  a considerable  surface, 
vegetations  of  the  genital  (and  especially  of  the  female  genital)  organs,  and  vl\so  papillo- 
mata, lupi , carcinomata , malignant  ulcers , telangiectases , and  cysts , are  promptly  destroyed 
by  a solution  of  1 part  of  it  to  1 of  water,  or  with  the  pure  acid,  and  with  far  less  pain 
than  is  inflicted  by  caustic  potassa.  Chromic  acid  is  one  of  the  best  applications  that 
can  be  made  to  the  gums  when  they  tend  to  ulceration  and  retraction  in  scrofulous 
patients  and  after  mercurial  salivation,  as  well  as  to  scrofulous  and  syphilitic  ulcers  of 
the  pharynx  and  the  mouth.  It  is  used  to  reduce  obstructions  in  the  upper  and  posterior 
portions  of  the  nasal  passages.  The  end  of  a probe  is  loosely  wound  with  raw  cotton 
containing  small  fragments  of  the  acid,  and  is  introduced  into  the  nasal  cavity,  whose 
moisture  dissolves  the  acid  and  renders  it  caustic.  To  prevent  the  detachment  of  the 
cotton  and  acid  from  the  probe,  it  is,  after  adjustment,  heated  in  the  flame  of  a lamp, 
which  chars  the  cotton  and  melts  the  acid.  The  previous  application  of  a solution  of 
cocaine  in  a great  degree  prevents  pain.  Any  excess  of  acid  in  the  nostrils  is  washed 
away  with  water ; and  if  it  seems  to  have  reached  the  pharynx  or  stomach,  it  is  neu- 
tralized with  a weak  solution  of  sodium  bicarbonate.  The  caustic  produces  an  eschar 
followed  by  a superficial  ulcer.  This  method  is  adapted  to  chronic  hypertrophic  rhinitis , 
adenoid  vegetations  in  the  naso-pharynx , and  chronic  hypertrophic  pharyngitis.  It  has 
been  employed  in  the  treatment  even  of  the  coryza  of  influenza , but  the  method  seems 
superfluous  and  needlessly  harsh.  Similar  affections  of  the  interior  of  the  larynx , oedema 
of  this  organ,  and  especially  tumors  of  the  vocal  cords  and  adjacent  parts,  have  been 
cured  by  skilful  cauterization  with  chromic  acid,  aided  by  the  laryngoscope.  A mild 
solution  may  at  first  be  used,  but  subsequently  one  containing  1 part  of  the  acid  to  8 
of  water,  or  even  of  twice  that  strength,  may  be  applied  by  means  of  a small,  fine,  and 
compact  piece  of  sponge.  The  solution  of  10  grains  of  chromic  acid  in  an  ounce  of 
water,  recommended  by  Paget  for  ulceration  of  the  tongue , has  been  similarly  applied, 
and  with  striking  success,  to  secondary  syphilitic  affections  of  the  organ  (ulcers,  mucous 
tubercles,  condylomata),  but  fails  in  the  tertiary  lesions.  Various  chronic  affections  of 
the  skin,  as  tinese,  sycosis , and  lupus , are  appropriate  for  its  use.  A 5-10  per  cent, 
solution  of  the  acid  has  been  used  to  check  hyperhidrosis , or  excessive  sweating , of  the 
feet,  but  it  sometimes  occasions  prickling,  numbness,  and  dryness  of  the  part,  and,  if  the 
skin  is  tender,  blisters  or  even  ulcers  ( Therap.  Monatshefte , iii.  344),  besides  the  risk  of 
poisonous  effects.  Its  prompt  and  powerful  action  renders  it  one  of  the  best  applications 
for  arresting  surface  haemorrhage , and  in  a diluted  state  it  is  a valuable  stimulant  for 
indolent  ulcers.  Syphilitic  and  even  tuberculous  ulcers  of  the  pharynx  have  been  treated 
in  this  manner ; and  so  has  granular  inflammation  of  this  part,  and  conjunctivitis  of  a 
similar  character.  Uterine  haemorrhage , depending  upon  laxity  of  the  tissues  of  the 
organ,  has  been  arrested  by  the  insufflation  of  a few  drops  of  the  acid.  In  the  treat- 
ment of  uterine  leucorrhoea  no  other  caustic  is  more  efficient  than  this ; but  it  should  be 
introduced  very  cautiously  by  means  of  a syringe  having  a lateral  opening  near  the  end 
of  its  tube,  and  the  superfluous  liquid  should  be  removed  when  the  syringe  is  withdrawn. 
Previous  dilatation  of  the  neck  of  the  uterus  facilitates  the  operation  and  the  cure.  If 
the  acid  is  too  strong,  it  may  give  rise  to  permanent  stricture  of  the  canal  of  the  cervix. 
This  tendency  to  contraction  of  the  tissues  to  which  it  is  applied  has  sometimes  been 
taken  advantage  of  to  relieve  incontinence  of  urine  in  the  female  due  to  relaxation  of  the 
urethra.  When  this  infirmity  is  connected  with  irritable  tumor  of  the  urethra,  the  acid 
will  sometimes  prevent  the  necessity  of  employing  cutting  instruments.  In  applying 


50 


ACIDUM  C1TRICUM. 


this  powerful  caustic  in  a concentrated  state — the  deliquescent  crystals,  for  instance — 
great  care  should  be  taken  to  protect  the  adjacent  sound  tissues  by  means  of  adhesive 
plaster  or  a simple  ointment,  and  all  superfluous  acid  should  be  immediately  removed 
with  a pledget  of  moist  lint.  The  pure  acid  should  be  applied  by  means  of  a wooden, 
glass,  or  porcelain  rod  or  spatula.  Diluted  solutions  may  be  used  with  a camel’s-hair 
brush,  which  immediately  afterward  should  be  well  washed  with  water.  Chromic  acid 
ought  not  be  dissolved  in  glycerin,  for  if  the  mixture  be  made  rapidly  ignition  occurs 
with  explosion.  Poisoning  by  the  internal  use  of  the  acid  should  be  treated  by  a solution 
of  bicarbonate  or  borate  of  sodium  and  stimulant  enemas. 

Perosmic  Acid. — Fraenkel’s  experiments  on  animals  showed  that  perosmic  acid  was  a 
solvent  of  all  the  soft  tissues  ( Berlin . Min.  Wochensch .,  1884,  No.  15).  This  action  was 
proposed  and  employed  by  means  of  injections  for  the  removal  of  goitres  by  Delbastaille, 
Szuman,  Eulenberg,  and  others  ( Centralb . f Ther .,  ii.  273;  Ther.  Gaz .,  v.  211),  and  by 
Winiwarter  in  the  treatment  of  sarcomatous  and  other  tumors  ( Med . News , xlii.  495),  but 
it  failed  in  the  hands  of  Bruns  ( Med . Record , xxiv.  159).  A similar  method  was  used 
in  the  treatment  of  neuralgia  (Neuber ; Lipburger,  Centralb.  f.  Tiber.,  ii.  97  ; Wolfler, 
Wiener  med.  Wochensch .,  Dec.  14,  1884;  Schapiro,  Lancet , Aug.  1,  1885).  Partial  con- 
firmation of  preceding  reports  was  furnished  by  Mohr,  Bedtenbacher,  Porteous,  and 
especially  by  Merces  and  S.  Solis-Cohen  ( Therap . Gaz.,  ix.  64;  Edinb.  Med.  Jour.,  xxxi. 
924  ; Lancet , Jan.  10,  1885  ; and  Med.  News-,  liv.  384).  In  1886,  Grinivitski  claimed  for 
it  a remarkable  power  over  muscular  rheumatism  ( [lumbago ) (Practitioner,  xli.  198). 
Wildermuth  reported  in  1884  that  he  successfully  treated  cases  of  epilepsy  that  had 
proved  refractory  to  other  medicines  by  the  internal  use  of  potassium  perosmite  in  the 
dose  of  Gm.  0.001  (gr.  ^)  ( Centralb . f Ther.,  ii.  353),  but  his  reports  have  not  been 
confirmed.  Perosmic  acid  has  generally  been  administered  subcutaneously  in  the  dose 
of  3 to  5 drops  of  a 1 per  cent,  solution. 

ACIDUM  CITRICUM,  V.  S.,  Br P.  G. — Citric  Acid. 

Acidum  citri  s.  limonum  s.  limonorum — Acide  citrique,  Acide  du  citron , Fr.  ; Citronen- 
siiure , G.  ; Acido  citrico , F.  It.,  Sp. 

Formula  H3C6H507.H20  — C3H4(OH  )(C00H)3.H20.  Molecular  weight  209.5. 

Origin. — Tile  acid  properties  of  lemon-juice  were  observed  at  an  early  period,  but 
the  distinction  of  the  acid  from  other  vegetable  acids  was  not  recognized  until  Retzius 
(1776)  proved  it  to  differ  both  from  tartaric  and  acetic  acids.  Scheele  (1784)  obtained 
citric  acid  in  crystals.  It  was  prepared  artificially  in  1880  by  Grimaux  and  Adam  from 
glycerin,  and  perhaps  also  by  Andreoni  and  Kekule  from  malic  acid.  Citric  acid  occurs 
in  a large  number  of  plants,  either  in  the  free  state  or  combined  with  potassium  or  cal- 
cium, and  frequently  associated  with  malic  acid.  It  has  been  found  in  the  rhizomes  of 
Asarum  europseum  and  Sanguinaria  canadensis,  in  the  tubers  of  dahlia  and  Jerusalem 
artichoke,  in  the  herb  of  lactuca  and  tobacco,  and  in  many  fruits,  such  as  capsicums, 
tomatoes,  tamarinds,  cherries,  gooseberries,  raspberries,  whortleberries,  cranberries,  black- 
berries, strawberries,  etc.  It  occurs  most  abundantly,  however,  and  as  free  acid,  in  the 
fruits  of  the  Aurantiaceae,  and  is  prepared  in  large  quantity  from  the  juice  of  the  lemon 
and  the  lime. 

Preparation. — Citric  acid  is  manufactured  in  this  country  and  in  England  on  a 
large  scale  from  lemon-  and  lime-juice,  which  are  obtained  from  Florida,  the  West  Indies, 
and  Italy.  The  juice  is  exported  either  in  its  natural  condition  or  considerably  concen- 
trated by  evaporation,  or  else  in  the  form  of  a crystalline  powder  as  calcium  or  magne- 
sium citrate.  The  juice  is  clarified  by  ebullition,  or,  if  obtained  from  unsound  fruits, 
by  allowing  it  to  undergo  the  vinous  fermentation.  After  decantation  and  straining  an 
excess  of  chalk  (calcium  carbonate)  is  added,  and  finally  some  milk  of  lime.  The  calcium 
citrate  thus  formed  being  less  soluble  in  hot  than  in  cold  water,  the  mixture  is  heated  to 
boiling,  and  while  hot  the  clear  liquid  is  drawn  off  from  the  precipitated  calcium  citrate, 
which  is  washed  with  boiling  water  for  the  purpose  of  removing  all  the  extractive 
matter.  The  calcium  citrate  is  now  decomposed  by  diluted  sulphuric  acid  in  such  a 
proportion  as  to  form  calcium  sulphate,  and  to  leave  a little  sulphuric  acid  in  excess : 
10  parts  of  calcium  citrate  require  about  9 parts  of  sulphuric  acid  diluted  with  from 
50  to  60  parts  of  water.  The  solution  of  citric  acid  is  drawn  off  from  the  precipitated 
calcium  sulphate,  and  the  latter  washed  with  very  cold  or  with  boiling  water,  in  which 
gypsum  is  less  soluble  than  in  water  of  a medium  temperature.  The  liquid,  with  the 
washings,  is  evaporated  by  steam  heat  to  a syrupy  consistence,  and  then  allowed  to 


ACTDUM  CITRTCUM. 


51 


crystallize  in  suitable  tanks  lined  with  lead.  The  presence  of  a little  sulphuric  acid 
appears  to  favor  crystallization,  which  is  prevented  or  considerably  retarded  by  acid 
calcium  citrate.  The  crystals  are  redissolved  in  a small  quantity  of  water,  and  the 
solution  is  treated  with  animal  charcoal,  and  then  evaporated  to  crystallize.  These  direc- 
tions agree  in  the  main  w7ith  those  given  in  the  British  Pharmacopeia.  Citric  acid  may 
be  prepared  by  this  process  from  the  juice  of  other  acidulous  fruits;  Granger  (1873) 
described  the  manipulations  necessary  to  obtain  it  advantageously  from  whortleberries. 
The  importations  of  citric  acid  amounted  in  1867  to  nearly  83,000  pounds,  and  at  present 
average  about  33,000  pounds  annually. 

Properties. — Citric  acid  crystallizes  in  colorless  rhombic  prisms  which  have  an 
agreeable  acid  taste.  The  solubility  is  variously  stated  as  follows : U.  S.  Ph.,  at  15°  C. 
(59°  F.),  1 part  of  acid  in  0.63  parts  of  water,  1.61  parts  of  alcohol,  and  in  11  parts  of 
ether;  also  soluble  in  0.4  parts  of  boiling  water  and  in  1.43  parts 
of  boiling  alcohol.  Br.  Ph.,  temp,  not  specified,  but  15.5°  C.  Fig.  6. 

(60°  F.)  generally  understood,  1 part  of  acid  soluble  in  0.75 
parts  of  water,  less  soluble  in  alcohol  of  0.835  sp.  grav.,  and 
insoluble  in  ether  ; also  soluble  in  0.50  parts  of  boiling  water. 

Germ.  Ph.,  at  15°  C.,  1 part  of  acid  soluble  in  0.54  parts  of 
water,  1 part  of  alcohol,  and  in  50  parts  of  ether.  It  is  also 
soluble  in  methylic  and  amylic  alcohols  and  glycerin,  and  is 
freely  soluble  in  hot  creosote,  but  insoluble  in  chloroform  and  in 
hydrocarbons,  except  in  the  presence  of  alcohol.  When  a solu- 
tion is  made  by  dissolving  40  grains  of  the  crystals  in  1 ounce 
of  water,  it  resembles  lemon-juice  in  strength  and  in  the  nature 
of  its  acid  properties,  and,  like  lemon-juice,  it  undergoes  decom- 
position, acetic  acid  being  among  the  products,  and  becomes 
mouldy  by  keeping.  The  crystals  are  permanent  in  dry  air,  but 
at  a somewhat  elevated  temperature  slowly  part  with  their  water 
of  crystallization,  and  in  a damp  atmosphere  they  become  moist 
and  gradually  deliquesce.  They  melt  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  in 
their  water  of  crystallization  ; the  anhydrous  acid  fuses  between  Crystal  of  Citric  Acid. 
135°  and  152°  C.  (275°  and  305.6°  F.).  When  slowly  ignited  it  is 

gradually  decomposed  without  emitting  the  odor  of  burning  sugar  (difference  from  tar- 
taric acid),  and  is  finally  consumed  without  leaving  more  than  0.05  per  cent,  of 
residue  (U.  S.). 

Citric  acid  is  a tribasic  acid,  having  the  formula  H3C6H507,  or,  as  met  with  in  the  crys- 
tallized condition,  H3C6H507  -j-  H20.  The  water  of  crystallization,  amounting  to  8,6  per 
cent.,  is  expelled  at  135°  C.  (275°  F.),  and  at  155°  C.  (311°  F.)  another  molecule  of 
water  is  given  off,  aconitic  acid , H3C6H306,  remaining  behind,  which  is  identical  with  the 
acids  that  have  been  isolated  from  aconite,  yarrow,  and  other  plants.  Like  citric  acid,  it 
forms  three  series  of  salts,  either  1,  2,  or  3 atoms  of  hydrogen  being  replaceable  by  a 
basylous  radical. 

The  citrates  of  the  alkalies  are  all  soluble  in  water  ; the  neutral  citrates  of  the  heavy 
metals  are  mostly  insoluble  in  water,  but  dissolve  in  nitric,  and  many  also  in  citric,  acid. 
Ferric  and  aluminum  citrates  are  not  precipitated  by  alkalies.  That  the  calcium  citrate 
is  soluble  in  cold  and  insoluble  in  hot  water  has  been  already  mentioned.  If  lime-water 
is  not  completely  neutralized  by  solution  of  citric  acid,  no  precipitate  will  occur  until  the 
liquid  is  heated  to  boiling.  70  grains  of  citric  acid  dissolved  in  distilled  water  are  neu- 
tralized by  1000  grain-measures  of  the  volumetric  solution  of  soda  (i?r.) , or  3.5  Gin.  of 
the  acid  by  50  Cc.  of  the  soda  solution  ( U.  S.). 

Impurities  and  Adulterations. — The  impurities  which  may  be  present  in  citric 
acid  in  consequence  of  carelessness  in  its  manufacture  may  be  sulphuric  acid,  calcium, 
iron,  lead,  and  copper.  Minute  fragments  of  metallic  lead  are  occasionally  observed 
adhering  to  some  of  the  crystals.  Sulphuric  acid  is  readily  detected  in  the  aqueous  solu- 
tion of  citric  acid  by  the  white  precipitate  occurring  with  barium  chloride  ; iron,  by  the 
blue  color  occasioned  by  potassium  ferrocyanide ; and  lead  and  copper,  by  the  black 
coloration  or  precipitate  resulting  from  hydrogen  sulphide.  For  the  detection  of  calcium 
it  is  advisable  to  neutralize  the  citric-acid  solution  with  ammonia,  then  to  acidulate  with 
acetic  acid,  and  add  ammonium  oxalate,  when  a white  precipitate  of  calcium  oxalate  will 
appear.  5 Cc.  of  a 10  per  cent,  solution  of  the  acid  neutralized  with  ammonia  should 
remain  clear  on  the  addition  of  1 Cc.  of  ammonium  oxalate  test  solution  : and  with  2 
or  3 Cc.  of  hydrogen  sulphide  should  not  acquire  more  than  a faintly  brownish-yellow 


52 


ACTDUM  CITRICTJM. 


solution,  but  should  not  deposit  a colored  precipitate  (absence  of  calcium;  limit  of 
metallic  impurities  ( U.  Si).  Mineral  impurities  may  also  be  tested  for  in  the  ash  after 
dissolving  it  in  a little  dilute  nitric  acid. 

Tartaric  acid  is  occasionally  used  as  an  adulteration,  and  oxalic  acid  and  various  crys- 
tallized salts  are  said  to  have  been  employed  for  the  same  purpose.  Such  frauds  are 
usually  accomplished  by  mixing  the  foreign  compounds  in  a crystalline  form  with  the 
acid,  and  it  is  therefore  necessary  to  employ  a larger  quantity  (say  several  ounces)  of 
the  large  and  small  crystals,  to  be  triturated  in  a mortar  into  powder.  Many  of  the  salts 
will  be  found  to  be  insoluble  in  alcohol,  and  may  thus  be  detected,  or  by  the  residue  left- 
on  incinerating  a portion  of  the  powder  upon  platinum-foil.  The  aqueous  solution  of  the 
powder  is  neutralized  with  ammonia,  and  then  acidulated  with  acetic  acid.  Upon  adding 
calcium  chloride,  oxalic  acid,  if  present,  will  be  precipitated  as  white  calcium  oxalate. 
The  clear  filtrate,  neutralized  with  ammonia,  will  deposit  in  the  cold  white  calcium  tar- 
trate if  tartaric  acid  be  present,  and  the  filtrate  from  it  will,  on  boiling,  throw  down  cal- 
cium citrate.  On  dissolving  some  of  the  powder  in  diluted  alcohol,  and  adding  a con- 
centrated solution  of  potassium  acetate,  tartaric  acid  will  yield  a white  crystalline  pre- 
cipitate of  potassium  acid-tartrate.  Oxalic  acid,  if  present  in  sufficient  quantity,  will 
likewise  cause  a precipitate  with  this  test.  Or  a number  of  crystals  of  different  sizes 
are  placed  upon  a glass  plate  in  a little  potassa  solution,  or  preferably  a strong  solution 
of  potassium  acetate : the  crystals  of  citric  acid  will  remain  transparent,  while  the  crys- 
tals of  tartaric  acid  will  become  opaque,  in  consequence  of  the  formation  of  potassium 
acid-tartrate.  Cailletet  (1877)  observed  the  slow  action  in  the  cold  of  potassium  dichro- 
mate upon  citric  acid,  and  recommends  testing  for  tartaric  acid  by  adding  1 Gm.  of  the 
suspected  acid  in  powder  to  10  Cc.  of  a cold  saturated  solution  of  the  dichromate,  and 
stirring  with  a glass  rod.  Pure  citric  acid  does  not  change  the  orange  color  of  this  solu- 
tion in  ten  minutes ; but  in  the  presence  of  1 per  cent,  of  tartaric  acid  the  mixture  will 
have  acquired,  in  the  time  mentioned,  the  color  of  infusion  of  coffee,  and  with  5 per  cent, 
of  tartaric  acid  it  will  have  become  blackish  brown. 

Preparations. — Pulvis  ad  limonadum.  Triturate  thoroughly  white  sugar  120 
Gm.,  citric  acid  10  Gm.,  oil  of  lemon  3 drops. — A.  D.  A. 

Action  and  Uses. — In  man  citric  acid  does  not  diminish  the  coagulability  of  the 
blood ; so  far  from  this,  indeed,  in  the  form  of  lemon-juice  it  is  of  all  agents  the  most  efficient 
in  correcting  that  incoagulability  of  the  blood  which  is  characteristic  of  scurvy.  When 
largely  administered  it  increases  the  acidity  of  the  urine,  causing  a deposit  of  free  uric 
acid.  According  to  Langfeldt,  1 part  of  this  acid  in  2000  parts  of  water  is  sufficient  to 
destroy  all  the  animalculas  in  the  liquid  that  are  not  protected  by  a thick  epithelial 
covering.  Schaltz  asserts  that  a solution  of  the  acid,  1 : 1000,  promptly  kills  vegetable 
organisms,  and  that  meat  immersed  in  a 5 per  cent,  solution  underwent  no  change  during 
five  days  {Med.  News  xlvi.  435).  Citric  acid  used  habitually  is  very  apt  to  corrode  the 
teeth.  The  most  useful  application  of  lemon-juice  and  citric  acid  is  to  prevent  and  cure 
scurvy , a purpose  which  long  and  extensive  experience  has  proved  them  admirably  fitted 
to  fufil.  Of  the  two,  lemon-juice  is  by  far  the  most  efficacious,  and  the  opinion  that  its 
efficiency  is  not  due  to  the  acid  alone  is  shown  not  only  by  this  comparison,  but  also  by 
the  well-known  fact  that  many  fresh  vegetables  are  endowed  with  a similar  power.  The 
use  of  lemon-juice  in  the  treatment  of  acute  articular  rheumatism  was  at  one  time 
confidently  relied  on,  but  is  no  longer  in  vogue,  and  the  article  is  employed  only  as 
means  of  assuaging  the  thirst  and  reducing  the  febrile  heat  in  that  disease,  as  well  as  in 
various  other  diseases  of  which  fever  is  a prominent  symptom.  A physician  has  gone  so 
far  as  to  assert  that  if  a fresh  lemon  is  cut  into  pieces  and  boiled  in  3 cups  of  water  until 
reduced  to  one-third,  the  strained  liquor  will  cure  malarial  affections  as  well  as  quinine,  or 
still  better  {Bull,  de  Therap , cv.  76).  This  statement  has  been  confirmed  by  several 
reporters  who  appear  to  be  unacquainted  with  the  influence  of  the  imagination  upon 
periodical  diseases.  Citric  acid  may  be  used  with  some  advantage  during  haemorrhage, 
but  its  direct  effect  upon  this  symptom  is  slight,  indeed,  when  compared  with  that  of  the 
mineral  acids.  The  old  practice  of  arresting  post-partum  haemorrhage  by  squeezing  out 
the  juice  of  a cut  lemon  within  the  cavity  of  the  uterus  deserves  attention,  less  from  the 
coagulating  action  of  the  acid  than  from  the  stimulation  exerted  by  it  upon  the  interior 
of  the  womb,  which  is  at  the  same  time  mechanically  irritated.  The  injection  of  lemon- 
juice  into  the  nostrils,  after  removing  their  contents,  suffices  sometimes  to  arrest  epistaxis. 
Lemon-juice  is  of  some  advantage  in  jaundice  depending  upon  congestion  of  the  liver, 
and  may  be  employed  as  an  antidote  to  alkaline  and  narcotic  poisons.  It  forms  an  agree- 
able application  in  diphtheritic  angina  and  in  gangrenous  sore  mouth , and  has  been  used 


ACIDUM  FORMICICUM. 


53 


with  striking  advantage  to  relieve  pruritus  of  the  genital  organs.  Hypodermic  injections 
of  a saturated  solution  of  citric  acid  have  been  alleged  to  destroy  cancerous  tumors. 

ACIDUM  FORMICICUM,  P.  G.— Formic  Acid. 

Acidum  formicarum  s.  formicum. — Acide  formique , Fr. ; Ameisensaure , G. 

Formula  HCH02  = HCOOH.  Molecular  weight  45.89. 

Origin  and  Preparation. — In  the  beginning  of  the  sixteenth  century  Otto  Brun- 
fels  observed  the  acid  reaction  upon  blue  vegetable  colors  of  the  air  in  the  nest  of  the 
wood-ant  (Formica  rufa,  Linne ).  By  distilling  ants  John  Wray  (1670)  obtained  an  acid 
which  Andrew  Marggraf  (1749)  proved  to  differ  from  acetic  acid.  Scheele  (1774) 
obtained  the  acid  artificially  from  gum  and  sugar,  but  considered  it  to  be  acetic  acid,  a 
view  disproved  by  Doebereiner  (1822). 

Formic  acid  is  found  in  ants,  in  some  caterpillars,  old  oil  of  turpentine,  nettles  and 
other  plants,  and  is  formed  by  the  oxidation  of  methylic  alcohol ; by  the  action  of  black 
oxide  of  manganese  and  sulphuric  acid  or  of  chlorinated  lime  upon  sugar,  starch,  and 
other  carbohydrates  and  allied  compounds;  by  the  decomposition  of  chloral  hydrate  and 
of  chloroform  by  means  of  potassa  ; and  by  other  reactions.  Lorin  (1865)  observed  that 
in  the  presence  of  glycerin  and  a little  water  oxalic  acid  is  readily  decomposed  into  formic 
acid  and  carbonic  acid  gas  ; C2H204  yields  CH202  + C02.  Berthelot  prepares  it  by  heat- 
ing in  a retort  10  parts  each  of  oxalic  acid  and  glycerin  and  1 or  2 parts  of  water  to  a 
little  over  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  ; the  oxalic  acid  is  preferably  added  in  portions  of  2 or  3 
parts.  After  about  12  hours  the  decomposition  is  complete,  and  the  contents  of  the 
retort  are  repeatedly  diluted  with  5 parts  of  water  and  distilled ; the  residue  in  the  retort 
is  preserved  for  a future  operation,  while  the  distillate  is  neutralized  with  sodium  carbonate 
and  evaporated  to  dryness  by  means  of  a water-bath;  100  parts  of  dry  sodium  formate 
require  75  to  76  parts  of  sulphuric  acid  for  decomposition,  which  may  be  diluted  with 
water  according  to  the  strength  of  formic  acid  desired  ; the  latter  is  obtained  by  distillation. 

Properties. — Anhydrous  formic  acid  is  a colorless  liquid  of  1.235  sp.  gr.,  crystallizing 
below  the  freezing-point  of  water,  boiling  near  99°  C.  (210°  F.),  having  a pungent  acid 
odor,  and  producing  a burning  sensation  when  applied  to  the  skin.  Its  vapor  is  inflam- 
mable and  burns  with  a blue  flame.  The  acid  is  soluble  in  all  proportions  of  water,  alco- 
hol, and  glycerin.  According  to  Roscoe  (1862),  the  boiling-point  of  aqueous  formic  acid 
gradually  rises  until  the  temperature  107.2°  C.  (225°  F.)  is  reached,  when  the  boiling- 
point  remains  constant  and  the  distillate  contains  77.5  per  cent,  of  formic  acid.  Its  salts 
impart  to  solutions  of  ferric  salts  a dark  brownish-red  color  which  disappears  on  the 
addition  of  hydrochloric  acid.  When  heated  with  solutions  of  the  salts  of  mercury, 
silver,  gold,  and  allied  metals,  these  are  reduced  to  the  metallic  state. 

The  medicinal  acid  has  the  specific  gravity  1.060  to  1.063,  and  yields  with  lead  sub- 
acetate a white  crystalline  precipitate.  5 Cc.  of  it  neutralize  28-29  Cc.  of  normal 
potassa  solution,  indicating  25  per  cent,  of  absolute  formic  acid.  Thus  neutralized  the 
acid  has  no  pungent  or  empyreumatic  odor  (absence  of  acrolein).  If  diluted  with  5 parts 
of  water,  it  should  not  be  precipitated  by  silver  nitrate  (hydrochloric  acid),  nor  be  col- 
ored by  hydrogen  sulphide  (metals),  nor.  after  neutralization  with  ammonia  be  precipit- 
ated by  calcium  chloride  (oxalic  acid).  On  heating  for  ten  minutes  1 Cc.  of  the  acid, 
5 Cc.  of  water,  and  1.5  Gm.  of  yellow  mercuric  oxide,  the  filtrate  should  have  a neutral 
reaction  (absence  of  other  acids),  P.  G.  The  salts  of  formic  acid  can  easily  be  pre- 
pared like  the  acetates  by  dissolving  the  respective  carbonates  in  the  acid,  and  also  by 
mutual  decomposition.  The  formates  are  all  soluble  in  water,  some  quite  readily,  and  a 
few  also  in  alcohol ; magnesium  and  lead  formate,  however,  are  insoluble  in  alcohol, 
differing  in  this  respect  from  the  respective  acetates. 

Preparations. — Spiritus  formicarum,  P.  G.  Mix  alcohol  70  parts,  water  26  parts,  and  for- 
mic acid  4 parts.  It  is  a colorless  liquid  of  an  acid  reaction,  which,  when  mixed  with  one- 
twentieth  of  its  weight  of  solution  of  subacetate  of  lead,  becomes  filled  with  feathery  crystals. 

Ammonii  formas  (formias),  NH4CII02,  is  obtained  by  neutralizing  the  acid  with  ammonia 
and  evaporating  to  crystallization.  It  is  in  colorless  prisms  of  a refreshing  pungent  taste,  fuses 
at  about  100°  C.  (212°  F.),  and  when  rapidly  heated  to  180°  C.  (356°  F.)  is  decomposed  into 
hydrocyanic  acid  and  water;  NH4CH02  yields  HCN  -f  2II20. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  experiments  of  Wolff  show  that  formic  acid  is  not  an 
antiseptic,  is  only  a feeble  antifermentative,  and  is  of  no  value  as  an  antiputrid  agent.  Upon 
the  skin  it  acts  as  an  irritant  and  vesicant,  and  if  its  contact  is  prolonged  it  may  produce 
a slough.  In  gouty  patients  it  is  reported  to  have  caused  a discharge  of  muddy  and  ill- 


54 


ACIDUM  GALLICUM. 


smelling  urine.  According  to  Arloing,  small  doses  of  formiate  of  sodium  increase  the 
number  and  depth  of  the  respirations  and  render  them  irregular  in  the  dog  and  horse. 
Large  doses  render  the  breathing  rapid  and  shallow,  and  very  large  doses  suspend  it,  the 
temperature  meanwhile  falling  2°  or  3°  C.  Direct  injection  of  a large  dose  of  the  salt 
into  the  right  ventricle  is  followed  by  slower  or  suspended  movements  of  the  heart. 

Formic  acid  was  at  one  time  used  internally  to  stimulate,  as  ammonia  is  generally 
employed,  and  externally,  like  that  irritant,  for  the  relief  of  local  neuralgic  and  rheumatic 
pains,  etc.  Spiritus  formicarum  (P.  G.)  is  prescribed  in  doses  of  from  Gm.  1.30-4.00 
(20  to  60  drops).  Formiate  of  ammonia  has  been  used  in  chronic  paralysis  and  in 
epilepsy , but  uselessly.  Dose,  about  Gm.  0.30  (gr.  v). 

Sodium  formiate  has  been  alleged,  without  substantial  proof,  to  be  curative  of  tuber- 
culous affections. 

ACIDUM  GALLICUM,  U.  S.,  Br.— Gallic  Acid. 

Trioxyhenzoic  acid . D ioxy salicylic  acid. — Acide  gallique , Fr. : Gallussaure,  G. ; Acido 
gallico,  It.,  Sp. 

Formula  HC7H505  + H20  = C6H2(OH)3.COOH  -f  H20.  Molecular  weight  187.55. 

Origin. — Gallic  acid  is  found  in  nutgalls,  sumach,  uva  ursi,  and  in  a number  of  other 
astringent  plants.  It  was  for  a time  confounded  with  tannin,  but  its  distinction  from  this 
was  recognized  by  Scheele  (1785),  who  obtained  it  in  a pure  state.  It  is  most  advantage- 
ously prepared  from  galls  by  Scheele’s  process,  as  modified  by  Pelouze  and  Robiquet,  for 
which  the  Pharmacopoeia  of  1870  gave  the  following  directions  : 

Preparation. — Take  of  Nutgall  in  fine  powder  36  troyounces;  purified  Animal  Char- 
coal and  Distilled  Water,  each  a sufficient  quantity.  Mix  the  nutgall  with  sufficient  dis- 
tilled water  to  form  a thin  paste,  and  expose  the  mixture  to  the  air,  in  a shallow  glass  or 
porcelain  vessel,  in  a warm  place  for  a month,  occasionally  stirring  it  with  a glass  rod,  and 
adding  from  time  to  time  sufficient  distilled  water  to  preserve  the  semifluid  consistence. 
Then  submit  the  paste  to  expression,  and,  rejecting  the  expressed  liquid,  boil  the  residue 
in  8 pints  of  distilled  water  for  a few  minutes,  and  filter,  while  hot,  through  purified  ani- 
mal charcoal.  Set. the  liquid  aside  that  crystals  may  form,  and  dry  them  on  bibulous 
paper.  If  the  crystals  be  not  sufficiently  free  from  color,  they  may  be  purified  by  dis- 
solving them  in  boiling  distilled  water,  filtering  through  a fresh  portion  of  purified  animal 
charcoal,  and  again  crystallizing. 

The  Br.  Ph.  recommends  the  following  process,  which  is  based  upon  the  observation 
of  Liebig  that  tannin  is  converted  into  gallic  acid  by  being  boiled  for  some  time  with 
diluted  sulphuric  or  hydrochloric  acid,  or  for  a few  seconds  with  potassa  solution  : Boil 
1 part  of  coarsely-powdered  galls  with  4 fluid  parts  of  diluted  sulphuric  acid  for  half 
an  hour;  then  strain  through  calico  while  hot;  collect  the  crystals  that  are  deposited  on 
cooling,  and  purify  these  with  animal  charcoal  and  repeated  crystallization. 

The  above  directions  are  so  clear  that  the  preparation  of  gallic  acid  by  them  presents 
no  difficulties,  and  the  only  additional  precaution  that  deserves  to  be  mentioned  is  the 
avoidance  of  its  contact  with  iron  and  iron  salts,  which  would  impart  to  the  acid  a color 
difficult  to  remove.  The  conversion  of  the  whole  amount  of  tannin  into  gallic  acid  is 
readily  proved  by  testing  a small  portion  of  the  filtered  liquid  with  solution  of  isinglass, 
which  should  cause  no  turbidity.  The  change  takes  place  slowly  at  a low  temperature ; 
P.  Weber  (1880)  found  about  45°  C.  (113°  F.)  to  be  most  suitable  for  the  process  given 
above.  The  yield  must  necessarily  vary  with  the  amount  of  tannin  present  in  the  galls. 

Gallic  acid  has  been  obtained  artificially  by  the  action  of  alkalies  upon  diiodo-or  dibromo- 
salicylic  acid  (Lautemann,  1861),  and  upon  bromdioxybenzoic  or  bromoprotocatechuic 
acid  (Barth  and  Sennhofer,  1872). 

Formation. — The  conversion  of  tannin  into  gallic  acid  has  been  the  subject  of  much 
controversy,  involving  numerous  researches.  It  was  at  first  supposed  that  gallic  acid 
existed  ready  formed  in  galls;  the  experiments  of  Pelouze  (1833)  proved  that  most  of  it 
is  formed  from  the  tannin  contained  therein,  and  this  conversion  he  supposed  to  be  due  to 
the  oxidizing  influence  of  oxygen,  by  which  carbon  dioxide  was  eliminated.  Robiquet 
(1837)  found  that  the  tannin  of  galls  is  converted  into  gallic  acid  without  the  admission 
of  oxygen  and  without  the  evolution  of  gas.  He  ascribed  this  to  the  action  of  a ferment 
present  in  the  galls,  which  was  subsequently  named  pectase.  Baroque’s  experiments 
(1841)  supported  this  view.  That  the  growth  of  mould  upon  the  infusion  of  galls  is 
without  influence  upon  the  production  of  gallic  acid  was  proved  by  Winckler  (1835). 
C.  Wetherill  (1847)  advanced  for  the  first  time  the  opinion  that  gallic  acid  differs  from 


ACIDTJM  GALLICUM. 


55 


tannin  merely  by  containing  additional  water,  and  lie  was  supported  in  this  theory  by  the 
investigations  of  Mulder  (1848).  Meanwhile,  Liebig  had  suggested  that  in  the  transfor- 
mation of  tannin  into  gallic  acid  a carbohydrate  was  liberated  ; and  Strecker’s  experiments 
(1854)  appeared  to  furnish  conclusive  proof  that  tannin  is  a glucoside,  which  on  being 
boiled  with  diluted  mineral  acids  yields  theoretically  82.5  per  cent,  of  gallic  acid.  The 
quantity  obtained  was,  however,  in  excess  of  this  figure,  and  Stenhouse,  Knop,  Roclileder, 
and  others  proved  that  gallic  acid  almost  equalling  the  weight  of  tannin  used  could  be 
thus  obtained.  Robiquet  (1854)  considered  this  result  due  to  molecular  change  accom- 
panied by  hydration,  whereby  tannin  is  transformed  into  gallic  acid  just  as  cane-sugar 
under  similar  influences  is  transformed  into  grape-sugar.  This  view,  however,  did  not 
explain  why,  on  the  treatment  of  tannin  with  diluted  acids,  glucose  was  obtained  in  vari- 
able quantities.  Hlasiwetz  (1867)  suggested  that  it  probably  was  not  a true  glucoside, 
owing  to  the  difficulty  with  which  the  glucose  is  obtained.  The  relation  of  the  two  com- 
pounds to  each  other  appears  to  be  finally  settled  by  the  researches  of  H.  Schiff,  Sac,  and 
J.  Lowe  (1871  and  1872),  according  to  which  pure  tannin  is  digallic  acid , an  anhydride  of 
gallic  acid,  the  conversion  of  the  former  into  the  latter  occurring  as  follows : C14Hi0O9  4- 
H.,0  — 2C7H605 ; and  the  sugar  observed  in  the  preparation  of  gallic  acid  is  referable  to 
the  glucose  which  naturally  exists  in  galls,  perhaps  in  combination  with  digallic  acid,  and 
from  which  tannin  is  with  difficulty  purified.  Lowe  prepared  pure  tannin  from  galls,  and 
Schiff  succeeded  in  converting  gallic  acid  into  tannin  absolutely  free  from  glucose. 

Properties. — Gallic  acid  is  in  fine  white  or  pale  fawn-colored  silky  needles,  which 
have  a slightly  acid  and  faint  astringent  taste,  and  are  inodorous.  It  is  soluble  at  15° 
C.  (59°  F.)  in  100  parts  of  water  and  in  5 parts  of  alcohol  ; in  3 parts  of  boiling  water 
and  1 part  of  boiling  alcohol.  Also  soluble  in  40  parts  of  ether  and  in  12  parts  of  gly- 
cerin. Very  slightly  soluble  in  chloroform,  benzene,  and  benzin.  The  solution  has  an 
acid  reaction,  and  gives  no  precipitate  with  ferrous  sulphate.  With  ferric  salts  a bluish- 
black  precipitate  is  obtained,  which  is  easily  soluble  in  acetic  acid,  and  disappears  on 
boiling.  It  is  not  precipitated  by  solution  of  gelatin  or  albumen  except  in  the  presence 
of  gum,  and  yields  no  insoluble  compounds  with  vegetable  alkaloids.  Gallic  acid  dis- 
solves permanently  in  a solution  of  potassium  citrate  to  such  an  extent  that,  according 
to  F.  Long  (1881),  15  grains  of  it,  with  20  grains  of  the  citrate,  will  yield  a clear  solu- 
tion in  1 ounce  of  water.  At  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  it  loses  9.5  per  cent,  of  water  of 
crystallization.  Heated  to  between  200°  and  215°  C.  (392°  and  419°  F.),  or,  according 
to  Schiff  (1879),  to  about  240°  C.  (464°  F.),  it  melts,  and  then  yields  carbon  dioxide 
gas  and  a sublimate  of  pyrogallol  = C6H60;1,  without  leaving  any  residue. 

Alkalies  added  to  a solution  of  gallic  acid  rapidly  color  the  liquid,  which  in  the  pres- 
ence of  very  little  potassa  or  soda  gradually  becomes  green,  but  with  an  excess  is  at  once 
yellow  and  turns  red  and  brown  ; little  ammonia  causes  a yellow,  and  an  excess  a reddish 
and  red-brown,  color.  Alkaline  carbonates  produce  similar  colorations,  but  act  less  ener- 
getically ; on  the  subsequent  addition  of  hydrochloric  acid  the  color  is  changed  to  red. 
Dudley  (1879)  observed  that  a dilute  solution  of  ammonium  picrate  with  excess  of  am- 
monia causes  in  solution  of  gallic  acid  a red  color,  rapidly  changing  to  a beautiful  green. 
Lime-water  produces  with  gallic  acid  a flocculent  precipitate,  which  turns  rapidly  blue 
and  green,  and  is  soluble  in  much  lime-water  with  a pink  color,  and  in  excess  of  gallic 
acid  with  a brown  color.  Most  of  its  salts,  those  with  the  alkalies  excepted,  are  insoluble 
in  water.  When  perfectly  dry  they  keep  unaltered,  but  in  the  presence  of  water,  and 
particularly  of  alkaline  liquids,  they  are  speedily  decomposed,  becoming  brown  and  black. 
Solutions  of  salts  of  silver,  gold,  platinum,  and  the  allied  metals  are  gradually  reduced 
by  gallic  acid  and  its  salts  at  the  ordinary  temperature. 

Impurities  and  Adulterations. — Tannin  is  indicated  in  the  aqueous  solution  of 
gallic  acid  by  the  white  curdy  precipitate  produced  on  the  addition  of  a solution  of  gel- 
atin. Resinous  substances  would  be  insoluble  in  boiling  water ; sugar  and  dextrin  would 
remain  undissolved  on  treatment  with  spirit  of  ether ; and  mineral  admixtures  would  re- 
main behind  upon  heating  the  acid  to  redness. 

Action  and  Uses. — Although  gallic  acid  is  not  astringent  in  taste  or  in  its  appli- 
cation to  raw  or  bleeding  surfaces,  it  certainly  exerts  a powerful  control  over  all  forms 
of  passive  haemorrhage  when  taken  internally,  as  well  as  upon  several  of  the  secretions, 
and  notably  upon  the  urine  and  the  sweat.  Unlike  tannic  acid,  it  has  no  constipating 
effect  upon  the  bowels.  It  is  perhaps  the  first  in  value  of  the  medicines  used  in  menor- 
rhagia. It  should  be  given  between  the  periods  as  well  as  during  the  flow,  and  in  doses 
of  from  Gm.  0.60—1.30  (gr.  x-xx)  a day,  in  pilular  form.  Of  similar  affections  in  which 
it  is  useful  may  be  mentioned  purpura,'  epistaxis,  hemoptysis,  hsematemesis,  hematuria,  and 


56 


ACIDUM  HYDRTODICUM. 


intestinal  haemorrhage.  To  the  inordinate  secretions  which  this  acid  tends  to  control 
belong  night-sweats  and  other  forms  of  profuse  perspiration,  and  excessive  flow  of  urine 
in  'polyuria  and  in  Bright's  disease.  Its  influence  in  the  last-named  affection  is  often  very 
prompt  and  salutary,  since  it  not  only  reduces  the  total  discharge  of  urine,  bu-t  in  a still 
larger  proportion  the  loss  of  albumen.  It  is  very  efficient  in  correcting  pyrosis , an 
annoying  symptom  of  various  dyspeptic  conditions.  Locally,  it  has  been  used  in  an 
ointment  for  the  treatment  of  alopecia.  The  dose  of  gallic  acid  is  from  Gm.  0.30-1.20 
(5  to  20  grains),  repeated  several  times  a day,  according  to  the  urgency  of  the  case.  The 
glycerite  is  a convenient  form  for  administering  it. 

ACIDUM  HYDRIODICUM.— Hydriodic  Acid. 

Acidum  iodhydricum. — Acide  iodhydrique , Fr. ; Jo  dwasser  staffs  dure,  G. 

Formula  HI.  Molecular  weight  127.53. 

Origin. — Clement  and  Desormes  (1813)  recognized  this  acid,  which  was  more  fully 
investigated  in  the  same  year  by  Gay-Lussac.  It  is  formed  on  the  decomposition  of 
metallic  iodides  by  means  of  acids ; on  the  ignition  of  a mixture  of  hydrogen  and  iodine 
vapors ; and  on  the  action  of  iodine  upon  various  hydrogen  compounds,  or  upon  oxidiz- 
able  bodies,  like  phosphorus  and  its  lower  oxides,  arsenous  acid,  etc.,  in  the  presence 
of  water. 

Preparation. — As  formerly  official  in  the  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia,  it  was  prepared  of 
such  strength  that  6 fluidounces  contained  the  hydriodic  acid  from  480  grains  of  iodine. 
The  process  adopted  was  the  one  originally  suggested  by  Gay-Lussac,  modified  by  Le 
Royer  and  Dumas,  according  to  which  30  grains  of  iodine  are  mixed  with  5 fluidounces 
of  water,  and  hydrogen  sulphide  is  passed  into  the  mixture  until  the  color  of  iodine  has 
disappeared.  More  iodine  is  now  dissolved  in  the  liquid ; again  hydrogen  sulphide  is 
passed  into  it  until  it  is  decolorized,  and  this  process  is  repeated  until  all  the  iodine  has 
been  used.  The  liquid  is  then  boiled  until  the  odor  of  hydrogen  sulphide  is  no  longer 
perceived,  filtered  from  the  sulphur,  and  the  filter  washed  with  distilled  water  until  the 
filtrate  measures  6 fluidounces.  It  contains  about  15  per  cent.  HI. 

In  the  presence  of  water,  iodine  and  hydrogen  sulphide  react  with  each  other,  the 
hydrogen  uniting  with  the  former,  liberating  sulphur ; 2I2  + 2H2S  yields  4HI  -j-  S2. 
The  sulphur  separates  as  a fine  powder,  which  would  cover  the  iodine  and  prevent  the 
further  reaction  : to  obviate  this  difficulty,  a small  quantity  is  first  converted  into  hydri- 
odic acid,  which  is  a good  solvent  for  iodine,  and,  with  proper  management,  no  iodine 
will  be  lost  by  remaining  enveloped  by  the  sulphur. 

The  process  recommended  by  Buchanan  (1837)  consisted  in  dissolving  264  grains  of 
tartaric  acid  and  330  grains  of  potassium  iodide,  each  in  1J  fluidounces  of  water,  mixing 
and  cooling  the  solutions,  agitating  for  some  time,  straining  from  the  precipitated  po- 
tassium bitartrate,  and  diluting  with  water  to  obtain  61  fluidounces.  This  acid  speed- 
ily decomposes,  for  which  reason  J.  Murdoch  (1855)  proposed  to  preserve  it  by  sugar. 
It  contains  about  8 per  cent.  HI. 

Properties. — Pure  hydriodic  acid  is  a colorless  irrespirable  and  uninflammable  gas, 
having  the  density  4.37  and  an  odor  resembling  that  of  hydrochloric  acid.  The  aqueous 
solution  is  colorless,  has  a strong  acid  reaction,  and  a pungent  afterward  styptic  sour 
taste.  The  concentrated  aqueous  solution  of  the  acid,  saturated  at  0°  C.  (32°  F.),  has 
the  spec.  grav.  1.99.  The  acid  formerly  officinal  had  the  spec.  grav.  1.112.  The  most 
concentrated  acid  obtainable  by  distillation  boils  at  127°  C.  (260.6°  F.),  contains  57.75 
per  cent.  HI,  and  has  the  spec.  grav.  1.708.  Topsoe  (1870)  found  an  acid  having  at 
13.5°  C.  (56.3°  F.)  the  densities  1.077,  1.102,  or  1.126  to  contain  respectively  10.15, 
13.09,  and  15.73  per  cent,  of  III.  Exposed  to  the  air,  this  acid  is  decomposed,  the 
hydrogen  being  oxidized  to  form  water,  and  iodine  liberated,  coloring  the  liquid  red- 
brown.  The  addition  of  a small  quantity  of  sodium  thiosulphate,  as  suggested  by  Dunn 
(1868),  will  for  a time  prevent  the  change.  Pharmaceutically,  hydriodic  acid  is  a very 
unsatisfactory  preparation. 

Action  and  Uses. — According  to  Binz  ( Arch . f.  Pathol,  u.  Pharm.,  viii.  320),  the 
poisonous  phenomena  produced  by  iodic  acid  prove  that  iodine  is  endowed  with  narcotic 
powers,  and  he  quotes  the  assertion  of  Melsens,  that  hydriodic  and  iodic  acids  are  equally 
operative.  He  and  others  also  aver  that  the  oxygen  of  the  compound  is  its  active  ele- 
ment, and  that  the  iodine  is  eliminated  with  the  urine.  The  same  authority  maintains 
(op.  cif.,  xiii.  125),  on  the  strength  of  his  experiments,  that  iodic  acid  is  an  antipyretic, 
in  that  it  reduces  the  pulse-rate;  that  its  oxygen  unites  with  and  destroys  “the  decom- 


ACIDUM  HYDROBROMIOUM  DILUTUM. 


posing  products  out  of  which  the  fever  arises and  that  “ the  nascent  iodine  can  only 
act  upon  the  cells  and  ferment  by  reducing  their  activity.”  It.  is  unnecessary  to  pursue 
these  ingenious  but  unpractical  suggestions,  which,  however,  induced  Luton  ( Teaite 
des  injections  souscutanees , Paris,  1875)  in  1873  to  employ  tissue  injections  of  iodic  acid 
in  the  treatment  of  certain  degenerations.  He  held  that  the  preparation  was  caustic  in 
virtue  of  its  iodine  and  resolutive  through  its  oxygen.  He  asserted  it  to  be  useful  in 
certain  ill-conditioned  and  especially  cancroidal  ulcers , and  that  it  might  be  injected  into 
ganglions , goitres , and  various  other  tumors  ; that  its  action  was  not  more  painful  than  that 
of  iodine  itself;  and  that,  according  to  the  strength  of  the  solution,  it  acted  as  a caustic 
or  simply  resolved  the  morbid  growths.  For  the  former  purpose  a saturated  solution  was 
employed  ; for  the  latter,  one  containing  a tenth  of  the  acid  or  less.  Binz  (loc.  cit .,  p. 
131)  refers  to  experiments  in  which  sick  rabbits  illustrated  the  antipyretic  virtues  of  the 
preparation,  and  urges  that  its  poisonous  qualities  do  not  constitute  a sufficient  objection  to 
its  use.  Yet  he  prudently  advises  that  the  sodium  salt,  and  not  the  acid,  should  be  em- 
ployed. In  1879,  however,  Wylie  prepared  hydriodic  acid  by  mixing  1 drachm  of 
potassium  iodide  with  90  grains  of  tartaric  acid,  and  dissolving  in  f^iv  of  water.  He 
claimed  that  a teaspoonful  of  this  solution  had  as  much  influence  as  30  grains  of  potas- 
sium iodide,  and  did  not  disorder  the  stomach.  To  prevent  partially  its  decomposition, 
it  was  mixed  with  a heavy  syrup.  He  recommended  it  in  “ bronchitis  and  in  chronic  and 
subacute  catarrhal  diseases,”  and  also  in  chronic  malarial  poisoning,  in  Graves’  disease , 
and,  like  Luton,  for  goitre , and  adipose  tumors  (Med.  Record , xx.  454).  The  effects  of 
the  acid  in  bronchial  asthma  resemble  those  of  potassium  iodide,  and  do  not  so  frequently 
include  the  annoying  operation  of  the  latter  medicine  (Wile,  Therap.  Gaz.,  xii.  541  ; 
Jour.  Am.  Med.  Assoc.,  xii.  110).  The  dose  is  generally  stated  at  Gm.  2 (f^ss)  of  the 
freshly  made  acid.  A syrup  has  been  used  containing  Gm.  0.45  (gr.  6.67)  of  the  acid  in 
Gm.  32  (5j). 

ACIDUM  HYDROBROMICUM  DILUTUM,  U.  S.,  Hr.— Diluted 

Hydrobromic  Acid. 

A rid  urn  bromohydricum. — Acide  hydrobromique , Fr. ; Bromwa.sserstoffsdure , llybrobrom- 
siiure)  G. 

Formula  HBr.  Molecular  weight  80.7 6.  Strength  10  per  cent.  Sp.  gr.  1.077. 

Origin.  — Hydrobromic  acid  was  discovered  by  Balard  (1826).  It  is  formed  by  the 
direct  union  of  its  elements  at  a red  heat,  by  the  decomposition  of  hydrogen  sulphide  and 
other  hydrogen  compounds  by  bromine,  by  the  action  of  bromine  in  the  presence 
of  water  upon  the  lower  oxides  of  sulphur,  phosphorus,  arsenic,  and  other  elements, 
and  by  the  action  of  water  upon  the  sulphur,  phosphorus,  and  other  compounds  of 
bromine.  Hr.  recommends  to  pass  II2S  into  bromine  kept  under  water. 

Preparation. — Markoe  (1875)  recommended  the  following  procedure:  1 pound  of 
phosphorus  is  spread  over  the  bottom  of  a one-gallon  jar,  covered  with  water,  and  the  jar 
half  filled  with  ice,  after  which  a large  funnel  is  inserted  into  the  throat  of  the  jar,  a 
funnel-tube  adjusted  so  as  to  reach  a short  distance  above  the  phosphorus,  and  the  jar 
surrounded  with  ice.  3 or  4 pounds  of  bromine  may  now  be  very  slowly  added  through 
the  funnel-tube,  care  being  taken  to  prevent  the  accumulation  in  the  jar  of  uncombined 
bromine,  which  would  give  rise  to  an  explosion  when  reacting  with  the  phosphorus.  The 
two  elements  unite  to  form  phosphorus  pentabromide,  PBr6;  and  this,  reacting  with 
water,  forms  phosphoric  and  hydrobromic  acids;  PBr6  4-  4H20  yields  II3P04  -f  5IIBr. 
After  the  reaction  is  completed  the  excess  of  phosphorus  is  removed,  and  the  aqueous 
liquid  distilled  until  hydrobromic  acid  ceases  to  come  over.  The  syrupy  residue  left  in 
the  retort,  when  properly  diluted,  is  utilized  as  phosphoric  acid. 

Fothergill’s  formula  is  an  adaptation  of  that  of  Dr.  D.  C.  Wade  (1875).  An  acid  of 
the  strength  required  by  the  Pharmacopoeia,  but  containing  small  quantities  of  potassium 
bitartrate  and  bromide,  may  be  prepared  extemporaneously  by  dissolving  8 parts  of  potas- 
sium bromide  and  10  parts  of  tartaric  acid,  each  in  25  parts  of  distilled  water,  mixing 
the  solutions,  cooling  the  mixture,  and  stirring  it  well;  after  the  potassium  bitartrate  Mas 
precipitated  the  whole  is  thrown  upon  a small  filter,  and  the  vessel  and  precipitate  are 
washed  with  10  parts  of  ice-cold  water. 

The  difficulties  of  distilling  hydrobromic  acid  by  decomposing  potassium  bromide  with 
sulphuric  acid  have  been  overcome  by  Dr.  Squibb  (1878)  as  follows:  7 parts  by  weight 
of  sulphuric  acid,  sp.  gr.  1.838  at  15.6°  C.  (60°  F.),  arc  added  to  1 part  of  water,  and 
the  mixture  allowed  to  cool,  when  it  is  slowly,  and  with  constant  stirring,  added  to  a hot 


58 


ACIDUM  II YDR OBR OMIC UM  DILUTUM. 


solution  of  6 parts  of  potassium  bromide  in  6 parts  of  water.  A decomposition  into  hydro- 
bromic  acid  and  potassium  sulphate  will  take  place  ; 2KBr  + H2S04  yields  2HBr  + K2S04. 
On  setting  the  mixture  aside  for  twenty-four  hours,  the  salt  crystallizes,  the  liquid 
is  poured  olf  into  a retort,  and  the  crystalline  mass  broken  up,  transferred  to  a funnel, 
and  washed  with  2 parts  of  cold  water  to  recover  adhering  hydrobromic  acid.  The  wash- 
ings are  likewise  poured  into  the  retort,  which  is  placed  upon  a sand-bath  or  set  upon  a 
wire  gauze,  and  the  whole  is  then  distilled  nearly  to  dryness.  The  distillate,  which  weighs 
about  10  parts,  is  assayed  with  normal  solution  of  soda,  and  then  diluted  with  distilled 
water  so  as  to  contain  34  per  cent,  of  HBr.  When  of  this  strength,  the  acid  represents 
one-half  the  bromine  strength  of  an  equal  weight  of  potassium  bromide,  and  should  be 
dispensed  only  as  acidum  hydrobromicum  concentratum.  According  to  W.  Griming  (1883) 
distillation  of  the  acid  is  readily  accomplished  by  using  100  parts  of  potassium  bromide 
and  .250  parts  of  phosphoric  acid,  sp.  gr.  1.304. 

Hager  avoids  distillation  of  the  acid  by  operating  as  follows:  15.5  parts  of  potassium 
bromide  are  dissolved  in  25  parts  of  hot  water ; the  solution  is  mixed  with  38  parts  of 
sulphuric  acid,  spec.  grav.  1.115,  or  32  parts  of  water  and  6.7  parts  strong  sulphuric  acid, 
and  the  mixture  cooled  by  immersing  the  flask  in  cold  water ; 40  parts  of  strong  alcohol 
are  added,  and  after  two  hours,  when  the  potassium  sulphate  has  separated,  the  liquid  is 
filtered  through  glass-wool,  and  the  vessel  and  filter  washed  with  15  or  20  parts  of  60 
per  cent,  alcohol ; the  clear  filtrate  is  either  evaporated  or  distilled  at  a temperature 
not  exceeding  80°  C.  (176°  F.)  until  the  alcohol  has  been  expelled.  At  the  temperature 
named  but  very  little  hydrobromic  acid  is  volatilized ; the  residue  is  diluted  with  water 
until  it  weighs  100  parts. 

The  process  of  Bruylants  (1879)  consists  in  carefully  dropping  bromine  into  oil  of 
copaiva,  and  afterward  applying  heat ; the  reaction  is  very  energetic. 

Properties. — Pure  hydrobromic  acid  is  a colorless  gas  of  a pungent  and  irritating 
odor,  and  produces  dense  white  fumes  in  a moist  atmosphere.  Its  aqueous  solutions  are 
colorless,  odorless,  limpid  liquids  of  a strongly  acid  taste,  which  remain  colorless  on 
exposure  to  air.  Dr.  Squibb  determined  the  acid  of  the  strength  suggested  by  him  to 
have  the  specific  gravity  1.274  at  15.6°  C.  (60°  F.),  and  to  contain  33.58  bromine,  .42 
hydrogen,  and  66  water.  When  heated,  water  and  a weak  acid  distil  over,  and  when 
the  temperature  reaches  126°  C.  (258.8°  F.)  an  acid  remains  which  has  the  specific 
gravity  1.490  and  contains  47.8  per  cent.  HBr.  This  strong  acid  may  be  distilled  un- 
changed. 

Hydrobromic  acid  liberates  bromine  on  the  cautious  addition  of  chlorine-water  or  of 
nitric  acid,  the  bromine  being  soluble,  with  a yellow  or  orange-red  color,  in  chloroform, 
ether,  and  carbon  bisulphide ; and  such  a solution,  agitated  with  starch  paste,  imparts  to 
the  latter  a yellow  color;  excess  of  chlorine-water  will  destroy  the  color. 

The  density  of  aqueous  hydrobromic  acid  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  according  to  Biel  (1881), 
is  as  follows : 


Per  ct. 
HBr. 

Spec.  grav. 

Per  ct. 
HBr. 

Spec.  grav. 

Per  ct. 
HBr. 

Spec.  grav. 

Per  ct. 
HBr. 

Spec.  grav. 

Per  ct. 
HBr. 

Spec.  grav. 

1 

1.0082 

11 

1.085 

21 

1.172 

31 

1.270 

41 

1.388 

2 

1.0155 

12 

1.093 

22 

1.181 

32 

1.281 

42 

1.401 

3 

1.0230 

13 

1.102 

23 

1.190 

33 

1.292 

43 

1.415 

4 

1.0305 

14 

1.110 

24 

1.200 

34 

1.303 

44 

1.429 

5 

1.038 

15 

1.119 

25 

1.209 

35 

1.314 

45 

1.444 

6 

1.046 

16 

1.127 

26 

1.219 

36 

1.326 

46 

1.459 

7 

1.053 

17 

1.136 

27 

1.229 

37 

1.338 

47 

1.474 

8 

1.061 

i 18 

1.145 

28 

1.239 

38 

1.350 

48 

1.490 

9 

1.069 

19 

1.154 

29 

1.249 

39 

1.362 

49 

1.496 

10 

1.077 

20 

1 

1.163 

30 

1.260 

40 

1.375 

50 

1.513 

Tests. — Hydrobromic  acid  should  evaporate  without  leaving  any  residue.  It  should 
not  be  precipitated  by  barium  chloride,  showing  the  absence  of  sulphuric  acid,  nor  should 
a brown  color  appear  within  half  an  hour  if  1 Cc.  of  the  acid  be  mixed  with  1 Cc.  of 
stannous  chloride  solution  and  a small  piece  of  pure  tin-foil  (absence  of  arsenic).  It 
yields,  like  hydrochloric  acid,  white  precipitates  with  solutions  of  lead,  mercurous  and 
silver  salts.  Silver  bromide  is  nearly  insoluble  in  dilute  ammonia-water,  which  dis- 
solves silver  chloride  readily  ; on  the  subsequent  addition  of  nitric  acid  only  a slight  tur- 


ACID UM  HYDROBROMICUM  DILUTUM. 


59 


bidity  should  be  produced.  If  contaminated  with  hydriodic  acid,  the  latter  on  exposure 
to  air  will  liberate  iodine,  which  gives  a blue  color  with  starch.  On  cautiously  adding 
chlorine-water  to  such  an  acid,  iodine  will  first  be  liberated,  and  dissolve  in  carbon  disul- 
phide with  a purple  color  ; on  the  further  addition  of  the  reagent  bromine  will  be  liber- 
ated. The  strength  of  hydrobromic  acid  may  be  determined  by  neutralization  or  by  silver. 
8.08  Gm.  of  the  official  acid  should  require  for  neutralization  10  Cc.  of  the  volumetric 
solution  of  potassa ; and  10  Gm.  of  it,  when  treated  with  silver  nitrate  in  excess,  will 
yield  a precipitate  which,  after  washing  and  drying,  weighs  2.32  Gm.,  and  when  heated 
in  chlorine  gas  is  converted  into  silver  chloride  weighing  1.77  Gm. 

Action  and  Uses. — In  its  liquid  and  diluted  state,  and  particularly  when  pre- 
pared by  decomposing  bromide  of  potassium  with  tartaric  acid,  it  has  an  agreeable  acid- 
ulous taste ; but  the  pure  acid  is  as  corrosive  as  concentrated  hydrochloric  acid.  The 
experiments  of  Reichert  (1881)  appear  to  prove  conclusively  that  the  action  of  hydro- 
bromic acid  is  essentially  the  same  as  that  of  potassium  bromide.  Its  operation  is,  how- 
ever, more  transient.  It  is  of  interest  to  note  that,  like  other  agents  classed  as  narcotic, 
it  is  stimulant  in  small  doses  and  in  large  doses  depressing.  It  is  less  apt  than  its  potas- 
sium salt  to  provoke  an  acneiform  eruption.  It  was  first  employed  to  prevent  the  head- 
ache occasioned  by  quinine,  and  also  by  iron,  by  combining  it  with  those  medicines,  as 
well  as  to  palliate  the  nervous  irritability  or  disorders  for  which  they  are  often  pre- 
scribed. It  soon  appeared  to  be,  in  many  cases,  an  appropriate  substitute  for  bromide 
of  potassium,  and  at  least  equal  to  that  salt  in  the  energy,  if  not  in  the  duration,  of  its 
action  upon  the  nervous  system.  In  combination  with  quinine  and  iron  its  own  compar- 
atively transient  influence  forms  an  appropriate  preparation  for  their  more  permanent 
action.  It  especially  seems  to  prevent  the  tinnitus  aurium  and  the  disorder  of  vision 
which  sometimes  follow  the  use  of  large  doses  of  quinine.  But  as  these  phenomena  are 
often  the  only  guides  in  regulating  the  dose  of  quinine,  a medicine  capable  of  suppress- 
ing them  is  of  questionable  advantage  unless  the  appropriate  dose  of  quinine  has  been 
experimentally  determined.  It  appears  to  co-operate  with  digitalis  as  well  as  with  qui- 
nine and  iron  in  improving  the  tone  of  the  heart  when  weak  and  irritable.  Like  the 
bromides,  it  has  been  successfully  employed  in  a variety  of  nervous  disorders  induced  by 
reflex  irritation,  such  as  vomiting , muscular  spasm , whooping  cough , irritable  heart , and 
neuralgia,  and  in  coughs  excited  by  bronchial  or  laryngeal  irritation.  In  cases  also  of 
cerebral  hypersemia , headaches , and  insomnia , due  to  excessive  mental  activity  in  study, 
business,  etc.,  it  appears  to  have  the  same  influence  as  the  bromides  ( Med . Record , xx. 
545).  In  tinnitus  aurium  and  other  subjective  sensations  in  the  ear,  especially  those  of 
a throbbing  or  knocking  character,  depending  upon  vascular  congestion,  the  medicine  has 
proved  very  efficient.  According  to  some  competent  observers,  it  is  more  injurious  than 
useful  in  epilepsy , aggravating  the  attacks  and  rendering  them  more  frequent.  Dr.  H.  C. 
Wood  has  shown  that  they  probably  employed  quite  insufficient  doses  of  the  acid,  and  such 
as  were  not  at  all  equivalent  to  efficient  doses  of  the  bromide  salts.  He  found  by  a 
series  of  comparative  trials  that  under  bromide  of  sodium  the  largest  number  of  fits 
occurred ; that  they  were  reduced  to  one-third  by  bromide  of  potassium  ; and  were  still 
further  reduced  under  the  daily  dose  of  fgiij  of  dilute  hydrobromic  acid  (U.  S.  P.).  The 
acid  was  given  after  meals  with  an  equal  amount  of  ginger  syrup,  and  diluted  with  half  a 
pint  of  water.  No  untoward  effects  appeared,  but  the  patients  were  generally  in  robust 
health  and  had  a powerful  digestion  (Med.  News , xliv.  209).  It  has  been  suggested  that 
the  acid  may  be  substituted  wholly  or  partly  for  the  salt  to  check  the  development  of 
the  bromide  eruption  and  of  the  debilitating  influence  of  its  alkaline  base.  It  has  been 
found  more  efficient  and  less  painful  than  muriatic  acid  for  treating  mercurial  ulcers. 

Dr.  Squibb  has  called  attention  to  the  difficulty  of  administering  the  acid  “ in  conse- 
quence of  the  large  dilution  necessary  and  its  disagreeable  effect  of”  setting  the  teeth  on 
edge.”  “ A dose  of  fifty  grains  requires  not  less  than  8 fluidounces  of  dilution,  which 
must  contain  not  less  than  an  ounce  of  sugar  or  2 ounces  of  syrup  to  make  it  drink- 
able.” Doses  of  about  half  this  amount  have  been  found  necessary  to  produce  a prompt 
sedative  effect.  Dr.  Squibb  has  proposed  the  use  of  a syrup  containing  about  3 minims 
of  his  acid  in  each  fluidrachm.  Gm.  16  (half  an  ounce)  of  this  s}7rup  contains  about 
Gm.  1 (15  grains)  of  the  acid,  and  is  reckoned  to  be  equivalent  to  Gm.  0.80  (12.5 
grains)  of  potassium  bromide.  It  must  be  given  diluted  with  from  Gm.  64-120  (2  to  4 
ounces)  of  water.  Dr.  Randolph  suggested  pure  milk  as  the  best  excipient  of  the 
medicine,  and  advised  that  it  be  not  administered  much  within  an  hour  after  meals,  lest 
it  impede  the  digestion  of  starchy  food  in  the  stomach.  Hydrobromate  of  quinine,  being 
very  soluble  in  water,  is  more  suitable  than  the  neutral  sulphate  for  hypodermic  use.  It 


GO 


ACIDUM  HYDROCHLORICUM. 


may  be  prepared  thus:  R.  Potassii  bromid.  162  gr.  ; Acid,  tartaric.  198  gr.  ; Quininse 
sulph.  60  gr. ; Aquae  fgiij. — M.  Filter.  Dose,  Gm.  2-4  (fjss-i). 

ACIDUM  HYDROCHLORICUM,  U.  S.,  Br.,  JP.  G.— Hydrochloric  Acid. 

Acidum  muriaticum  s.  hydrochloratum  s.  chlorhydricum. — Muriatic  acid , E. ; Acide 
cldorhydrique  s.  muriatique , Fr.  ; Salzsaure , Chlorwasserstoffsaure , G. ; Acido  cloridico.  F. 
It.,  Sp. 

Formula  HC1.  Molecular  weight  36.37.  Strength  31.9  per  cent.  Spec.  gray.  1.160 
(25  per  cent. ; spec.  grav.  1.124  P.  G.'). 

Diluted  Hydrochloric  Acid : Strength  10  per  cent.  U.  S.,  10.58  per  cent.  Br .,  12.5  per 
cent.  P.  G.  Spec.  grav.  1.050  U.  S.,  1.052  Br.,  1.061  P.  G. 

Origin. — Hydrochloric  acid  occurs  in  the  uncombined  state  among  the  gases  emitted 
by  active  volcanoes,  and  in  combination  its  radical,  chlorine,  is  found  in  numerous  min- 
erals, prominent  among  which  is  sodium  chloride,  or  common  salt,  which  is  also  one  of 
the  most  important  constituents  of  sea-water  and  the  source  of  nearly  all  the  hydrochloric 
acid  of  commerce.  The  acid  was  obtained  in  the  fifteenth  century  by  Basilius  Valentinus, 
and  was  described  as  spirit  of  salt,  a name  which  is  occasionally  used  even  at  the  present 
time.  The  correct  composition  of  hydrochloric  acid  was  first  proved  by  Humphry  Davy 
(1810). 

Preparation. — Enormous  quantities  of  hydrochloric  acid  are  produced  in  the  prepa- 
ration of  potash  and  of  sodium  carbonate,  for  which  purpose  it  is  necessary  to  convert 
the  chlorides  into  sulphates.  The  escaping  gas  is  made  to  pass  through  long  vertical 
cylinders,  which  are  filled  with  coke,  over  which  water  is  made  to  trickle.  The  water, 
dissolving  the  acid  in  its  descent,  is  collected  below  or  allowed  to  run  to  waste.  If  the 
acid  is  intended  for  uses  in  the  arts,  a purer  article  is  required,  and  the  gas  is  then  made 
to  pass  through  a series  of  stone  receivers  having  the  shape  of  large  Woulfe’s  bottles,  the 
first  of  which  is  empty,  while  the  other  five  or  six  contain  a certain  quantity  of  water.  The 
stills  consist  of  horizontal  iron  cylinders,  into  which  equal  weights  of  common  salt  and 
sulphuric  acid  are  introduced,  after  which  heat  is  applied.  The  first  receiver  retains  any 
sodium  sulphate  and  sulphuric  acid  which  may  be  mechanically  carried  over,  the  gas  being 
absorbed  by  the  water  in  the  other  receivers. 

By  this  process  117  parts  of  sodium  chloride  require  98  parts  of  concentrated  (or  a 
correspondingly  larger  quantity  of  a somewhat  weaker)  sulphuric  acid.  The  first  reaction 
results  in  liberation  of  one-half  of  the  hydrochloric  acid  and  production  of  acid  sodium 
sulphate  ; 2NaCl  + H.2S04  yields  HC1  -f-  NaCl  -|-  NaHS04.  The  decomposition  of  the 
remaining  chloride  by  the  acid  sodium  sulphate  is  effected  at  a temperature  beyond 
200°  C.  (392°  F.),  but  on  the  large  scale  a much  higher  heat  is  found  necessary ; the 
reaction  takes  place  as  follows  : NaCl  A NaHS04=  HC1  + Na2S04.  The  salt  cake  remain- 
ing in  the  retort  is  worked  up  into  Glauber’s  salt  by  dissolving  it  in  water  and  crystalliz- 
ing, or  it  is  used  for  the  preparation  of  soda.  The  acid  thus  obtained  has  a lighter  or 
deeper  yellow  color,  due  to  a small  quantity  of  ferric  chloride  dissolved  in  it.  If  other- 
wise pure  and  of  sufficient  strength,  it  may  be  employed  for  preparing  ferrous  and  ferric 
chlorides. 

In  a process  recommended  by  Eschellmann  (1882)  the  product  obtained  in  preparing 
hydrochloric  acid  may  be  again  utilized  for  the  same  purpose : calcium  chloride  and 
magnesium  sulphate  are  mixed  with  water  to  form  a soft  mass,  and  then  heated  to  dull 
redness.  The  reaction  taking  place  is  explained  by  the  equation  CaCl2  + MgS04  + 
H.,0  = (MgO.CaS04)  + 2HC1.  The  basic  calcium-magnesium  sulphate  may  be  used  for 
generating  ammonia  from  sal  ammoniac,  resulting  in  the  formation  of  calcium  sulphate 
and  magnesium  chloride,  from  which  the  above  basic  sulphate  and  hydrochloric  acid  gas 
may  be  again  obtained.  On  treating  in  the  same  manner  a mixture  of  magnesium  chlor- 
ide and  sulphate,  the  result  is,  besides  hydrochloric  acid,  basic  magnesium  sulphate, 
MgO.MgS04,  from  which,  on  boiling  with  water,  magnesium  hydroxide  is  precipitated, 
while  magnesium  sulphate  remains  in  solution. 

A pure  acid,  suitable  for  pharmaceutical  purposes,  is  obtained  by  rectifying  12  parts 
of  the  crude  acid  in  a glass  retort  in  such  a manner  that  the  delivery-tube  terminates  at 
the  surface  of  3 parts  of  distilled  water  contained  in  the  receiver,  which  is  refrigerated 
with  water ; the  heat  is  continued  until  about  7 parts  have  distilled  over.  The  pure 
acid  is  usually  prepared  on  a large  scale  by  distilling  sodium  chloride  and  sulphuric  acid 
in  the  proportions  given  above,  using  glass  retorts  having  a capacity  of  5 or  6 gallons,  and 
collecting  the  acid  in  suitable  glass  receivers;  a number  of  these  retorts  are  usually 


ACIDUM  H YDROCHL ORICUM. 


61 


arranged  in  a properly  constructed  furnace  having  the  requisite  number  of  sand-baths, 
each  of  which  is  large  enough  to  receive  one  retort,  and  may  be  sufficiently  heated  to 
recover  all  hydrochloric  acid,  with  the  production  of  sodium  sulphate.  In  the  pharma- 
ceutical laboratory,  however,  it  is  usually  preferable  to  employ  the  sulphuric  acid  in  such 
a quantity  that  acid  sodium  sulphate  is  formed,  since  the  hydrochloric  acid  is  then 
obtained  at  a lower  temperature  ; NaCl  -f-  H.2S04  = HC1  -f-  NaHS04.  For  3 parts  of  dry 
sodium  chloride  but  little  more  than  5 parts  of  concentrated  sulphuric  acid  are  required, 
and  these  are  the  proportions  employed  in  the  following  process,  which  likewise  contains 
the  necessary  details  for  successfully  carrying  on  the  operation  : 

Take  of  Sodium  Chloride,  dried,  48  ounces  ; Sulphuric  Acid  44  fluidounces  (80  ounces)  ; 
Water,  36  fluidounces  ; Distilled  Water  50  fluidounces.  Pour  the  sulphuric  acid  slowly 
into  32  ounces  of  the  water,  and  when  the  mixture  is  cooled  add  it  to  the  sodium  chloride 
previously  introduced  into  a flask  having  the  capacity  of  at  least  1 gallon.  Connect  the 
flask  by  corks  and  a bent  glass  tube  with  a three-necked  wash-bottle  furnished  with  a 
safety-tube  and  containing  the  remaining  4 ounces  of  the  water;  then,  applying  heat  to 
the  flask,  conduct  the  disengaged  gas  through  the  wash-bottle  into  a second  bottle  con- 
taining the  distilled  water  by  a bent  tube,  dipping  about  half  an  inch  below  the  surface, 
and  let  the  process  be  continued  until  the  product  measures  66  ounces  or  the  liquid  has 
acquired  a specific  gravity  of  1.16.  The  bottle  containing  the  distilled  water  must  be 
kept  cool  during  the  whole  operation. — Br. 

Acidum  hydrochloricum  (s.  muriaticum)  dilutum,  U.  S.,  Br.,  P.  G. — Diluted  hydro- 
chloricacid,  E. ; Acide  chlorhydnque  dilue,  Fr. ; Verdiinnte  Salzsdure,  (4. — Add  Hydrochloric 
Acid  100  Gm.  to  Distilled  Water  219  Gm.,  and  mix. — CJ.  S.  The  British  Pharmacopoeia 
adds  to  3060  grains  of  hydrochloric  acid  sufficient  distilled  water,  until  the  mixture,  at  15.5° 
C.  (60°  F.),  after  it  has  been  shaken,  measures  1 imperial  pint.  The  Germ.  Ph.  directs  that 
equal  parts  by  weight  of  hydrochloric  acid  and  water  be  mixed.  It  must  be  borne  in 
mind  that  the  official  hydrochloric  acid  of  the  Germ.  Ph.  contains  only  25  per  cent,  of 
absolute  HC1.  The  specific  gravity  of  diluted  hydrochloric  acid  is  1.050  U.  $.,  1.052  Br., 
1.061  P.  G. 

Properties. — 1.  Hydrochloric  Acid  Gas. — It  is  colorless,  has  a pungent,  acid, 
suffocating  odor,  and  when  inhaled  is  highly  irritating,  though  less  so  than  chlorine.  Its 
specific  gravity  is  1.2844  (Thomson).  It  strongly  reddens  blue  litmus-paper,  does  not 
support  combustion,  and  in  contact  with  the  atmosphere  produces  grayish-white  fumes  by 
condensing  the  moisture  of  the  air.  It  may  be  condensed  into  a colorless  liquid  by  a 
pressure  of  1 atmosphere  and  a refrigerating  mixture  of  solid  carbon  dioxide  and  ether. 
This  liquid  does  not  congeal  at — 110°  C.  ( — 166°  F.),  and  at  10°  C.  (50°  F.)  exerts  a pres- 
sure equal  to  40  atmospheres.  Its  composition  is  HC1,  or  equal  volumes  of  hydrogen  and 
chlorine  united  without  condensation. 

2.  Official  Hydrochloric  Acid. — It  is  a colorless  liquid,  having  the  specific  gravity 
1.160,  and  emitting  white  vapors  in  contact  with  the  air.  It  gives  with  silver  nitrate 
a white  curdy  precipitate,  which  is  soluble  in  ammonia  and  insoluble  in  nitric  acid.  The 
strength  of  the  acid  is  determined,  after  suitably  diluting  it  with  distilled  water,  by  neutral- 
izing it  with  volumetric  solution  of  soda  or  potassa.  3.64  Gm.  of  the  acid  require  31.9 
Cc.  of  the  latter  ( JJ.  S.),  or  114.8  grains  of  acid  need  1000  grain-measures  of  the  soda 
solution  ( Br .).  Pure  hydrochloric  acid  of  the  German  Pharmacopoeia  is  required  to  have 
the  density  1.124,  and  to  contain  25  per  cent.  HC1.  ; and  5 Cc.  of  the  acid  will  therefore 
require  38.5  Cc.  of  normal  alkali  solution. 

Water  absorbs  at  0°  C.  (32°  F.),  the  barometer  being  760  Mm.,  501.5  volumes  of 
hydrochloric  acid  gas.  The  concentrated  acid,  on  being  heated,  loses  gas,  becoming 
weaker  on  boiling  until,  at  the  barometric  pressure  given  before,  it  has  reached  the  specific 
gravity  1.101  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  contains  20.01  per  cent.  HC1,  and  distils  at  110°  C. 
(230°  F.)  unchanged,  leaving  no  residue  if  the  acid  was  perfectly  pure.  On  boiling  a 
weaker  acid  it  becomes  stronger,  the  final  density  depending  on  the  atmospheric  pressure. 

Hydrochloric  acid  of  the  specific  gravity  1.01  at  25°  C.  (77°  F.)  contains,  according  to 
E.  Davy,  2.02  per  cent,  of  gas,  and  for  every  additional  2.02  percent,  increases  in  density 
at  the  ratio  of  0.01,  so  that  an  acid  of  1.10  specific  gravity  contains  20.20  per  cent.,  and 
if  of  specific  gravity  1.19  contains  38.38  per  cent,  of  gas.  These  figures  differ  little  from 
those  ascertained  by  A.  Ure. 

The  following  table,  which  is  essentially  that  prepared  by  Prof.  G.  Lunge  and  incor- 
porated in  the  U.  S.  Ph.,  refers  only  to  chemically  pure  acids.  The  percentage  of  real 
acid  in  the  commercial  acids,  particularly  when  they  are  concentrated,  is  always  less  than 
that  given  in  the  table : 


62 


A CII)  UM  HYDE  0 CHL  ORICUM. 


Specific 
Gravity- 
150  C. 
at  4oC> 

in  vacuo. 

Specific 
Gravity 
15°  C. 
at  15°  C. 
in  air. 

100  Parts 
by  weight 
contain 
— parts 
of 

HC1. 

1 Liter 
contains 
— kilos 
of 

HCl. 

Specific 
Gravity 
15°  C. 
at  4o 

in  vacuo. 

Specific 
Gravity 
15°  C. 
at  15°  C. 
in  air. 

! 100  Parts 

by  weight 
contain 
— parts 
of 
HCl. 

1 Liter 
contains 
— kilos 
of 
HCl. 

1.000 

1.0008 

0.16 

0.0016 

! 1.105 

1.106 

20.97 

0.232 

1.005 

1.00059 

1.15 

0.012 

1 1.110 

1.111 

21.92 

0.243 

1.010 

1.00109 

2.14 

0.022 

1 1.115 

1.116 

22.86 

0.255 

1.015 

1.0159 

3.12 

0.032 

1.120 

1.121 

23.82 

0.267 

1.020 

1.021 

4.13 

0.042 

1.125 

1.126 

24.78 

0.278 

1.0253 

5. 

1.1271 

25. 

1.025 

1.026 

5.15 

0.053 

1.130 

1.131 

25.75 

0.291 

1.030 

1.031 

6.15 

0.064 

1.135 

1.136 

26.70 

0.303 

1.035 

1.036 

7.15 

0.074 

1.140 

1.141 

27.66 

0.315 

1.040 

1.041 

8.16 

0.085 

1.145 

1.146 

28.61 

0^328 

1.045 

1.046 

9.16 

0.096 

1.150 

1.151 

29.57  i 

0.340 

1.0502 

10. 

• 1.1532 

30. 

1.050 

1.051 

10.17 

0.107 

1.155 

1.156 

30.55 

0.353 

1.055 

1.056 

11.18 

0.118 

. . 

1.160 

31.326 

1.060 

1.061 

12.19 

0.129 

1.160 

1.161 

31.52 

% 0.366 

1.065 

1.066 

13.19 

0.141 

1.163 

31.90 

1.070 

1.071 

14.17 

0.152 

1.165 

1.166 

32.49 

0.379 

1.0752 

15. 

1.170 

1.171 

33.46 

0.392 

1.075 

1.076  j 

15.16 

0.163 

1.175 

1.176 

34.42 

0.404 

1.080 

1.081 

16.15 

0.174 

1.179 

35. 

1.085 

1.086 

17.13 

0.186 

1.180 

1.181 

35.39 

0.418 

1.090 

1.091 

18.11 

0.197 

1.185 

1.186 

36.31 

0.430 

1.095 

1.096  | 

19.06 

0.209 

1.190 

1.191 

37.23 

0.443 

1.1005 

20. 

1.195 

1.196 

38.16 

0.456 

1.100 

1.101 

20.01 

0.220 

1.200 

1.201 

39.11 

0.469 

Diluted  Hydrochloric  Acid  has  the  same  properties  as  the  strong  acid,  but  contains 
only  10  per  cent.  (U.  S.),  10.58  per  cent.  ( Br .),  12.5  per  cent.  (P.  Gi)  of  HC1,  and  has 
the  specific  gravity  of  1.050  (27.  $.),  1.052  (Pr.),  1.061  (P.  Gi).  The  amount  of  volu- 
metric solution  of  soda  required  for  neutralization  is  10  Cc.  for  3.64  Gm.  of  the  acid 
(P.  S .),  or  1000  grain-measures  for  345  grains  of  the  latter  (Pr.). 

Impurities  and  Tests. — Hydrochloric  acid  evaporates  completely  without  leaving 
any  residue  (saline  impurities).  When  diluted  with  at  least  five  times  its  volume  of  dis- 
tilled water,  it  yields  no  precipitate  with  hydrogen  sulphide  (lead,  copper,  arsenic,  tin), 
ammonia  in  excess  (lead,  iron),  or  barium  chloride  (sulphuric  acid)  ; nor  shows  a turbidity 
on  adding  a few  drops  of  decinormal  iodine  solution  to  this  test  (sulphurous  acid)  ; nor 
does  it  acquire  a blue  color  with  the  ammonia  test  (copper),  or  a brown  or  black  color  on 
the  subsequent  addition  of  ammonium  sulphide  (metals)  ; it  is  not  colored  red  by  potas- 
sium sulphocvanate  (iron),  or  blue  by  a mixture  of  starch  paste  and  potassium  iodide 
(chlorine),  and  does  not  tarnish  or  alter  the  color  of  bright  copper-foil  when  boiled  with  it 
(arsenic).  To  test  it  for  sulphurous  acid  or  arsenic,  put  a few  pieces  of  pure  zinc  into  a 
rather  long  test-tube  and  introduce  the  hydrochloric  acid,  diluted  with  2 parts  of  water, 
which  should  fill  about  one-tenth  part  of  the  tube.  In  the  upper  part  of  the  tube  place 
a small  bunch  of  cotton  moistened  with  solution  of  lead  acetate,  and  cover  the  mouth 
of  the  tube  with  a piece  of  white  filtering-paper  moistened  with  solution  of  silver  nitrate. 
After  the  evolution  of  hydrogen  gas  has  continued  for  an  hour,  neither  the  cotton  nor 
the  paper  should  be  blackened,  proving  the  absence  of  sulphurous  acid  in  the  former 
case  and  of  arsenic  in  the  latter.  Under  the  conditions  described  sulphurous  acid 
evolves  hydrogen  sulphide,  which  blackens  the  lead  salt,  and  arsenic  yields  hydrogen 
arsenide,  which  does  not  affect  lead  acetate,  but  blackens  silver  nitrate.  The  quantita- 
tive tests  of  the  U.  S.  P.  as  to  the  purity  of  the  acid  are — (1)  absence  of  iodine  or 
bromine:  1 Cc.  of  the  acid  diluted  with  twice  its  volume  of  water  should  not  give  to  a 
few  drops  of  chloroform  any  color  when  a small  quantity  of  freshly-prepared  chlorine- 
water  or  a granule  of  potassium  chlorate  is  added;  (2)  absence  of  chlorine  and  bromine: 
1 Cc.  of  the  acid  diluted  with  5 Cc.  of  water  should  not  give  a blue  color  on  adding  0.5 
Cc.  of  zinc-iodide  starch  solution  ; (3)  limit  of  arsenic : on  mixing  1 Cc.  of  stannous 
chloride  solution  with  an  equal  volume  of  the  acid  and  a small  piece  of  pure  tin-foil,  no 
brown  color  should  appear  within  one  hour;  (4)  absence  of  thallium , arsenic,  lead , etc.  : 
a few  Cc.  of  freshly-prepared  hydrogen-sulphide  solution  should  cause  no  color  at  the 


ACIDUM  HYDROCYANICUM  DILUTUM. 


63 


zone  of  contact  when  poured  on  an  equal  volume  of  hydrochloric  acid  ; (5)  absence  of 
iron,  aluminum , etc. : 1 Cc.  of  ammonium-sulphide  solution  should  cause  neither  a color  nor 
a turbidity  when  added  to  1 Cc.  of  hydrochloric  acid  which  has  been  slightly  supersatu- 
rated with  ammonia. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Hydrochloric  acid  is  employed  in  numerous  processes, 
either  on  account  of  its  properties  as  a solvent  for  decomposing  certain  compounds  with 
the  view  of  liberating  certain  constituents  (sulphur,  carbonic  acid,  hydrocyanic  acid,  etc.), 
or  for  the  purpose  of  generating  chlorine.  It  is  used  in  the  preparation  of  nitromuriatic 
acid  and  of  the  various  official  chlorides,  and  for  promoting  the  precipitation  of  resin  of 
podophyllum. 

Action  and  Uses. — Given  to  man  ill  small  doses,  hydrochloric  acid  occasions  a 
sense  of  warmth  in  the  stomach  and  arterial  excitement,  with  a decided  tendency  to 
cerebral  intoxication.  Its  protracted  use  causes  salivation.  In  a concentrated  form  it 
attacks  the  tissues  as  a caustic,  but  less  powerfully  than  nitric  or  sulphuric  acid.  An 
ounce  of  the  officinal  acid  has  been  taken  without  causing  death.  The  symptoms  of 
poisoning  by  hydrochloric  acid  are  sunken  features,  dilated  pupils,  a white  stain  upon 
the  tongue  and  fauces,  a small,  irregular,  and  feeble  pulse,  epigastric  pain,  and  cold 
extremities.  Vomiting  and  purging  sometimes  occur.  After  large  doses,  as  3 or  4 
ounces,  death  takes  place  in  from  three  to  six  hours.  Hydrochloric  acid  was  at  one  time 
extensively  employed  in  low  fevers , probably  only  upon  theoretical  grounds,  which  have 
disappeared  along  with  the  practice.  It  was  vaunted  in  scrofula  and  other  affections 
involving  debility  ; but,  as  it  was  associated  with  cinchona,  its  share  in  whatever  benefit 
accrued  is  more  than  doubtful.  Perhaps  upon  better  grounds  it  may  be  recommended 
for  constitutional  syphilis  when  mercury  and  iodine  are  inappropriate.  But,  not  improb- 
ably, its  use  in  this  disease  may  be  attributed  to  its  sometimes  causing  salivation.  The 
frequent  connection  of  acid  dyspepsia  with  gastric  fermentation,  the  development  of 
bacteria,  etc.,  and  even  with  putrefaction  of  the  food,  has  led,  on  the  one  hand,  to  the  use 
of  alkalies  and  their  carbonates,  which  correct  an  effect  of  the  disorder,  and  to  that  of 
mineral  acids,  which  tend  to  remove  its  cause.  Muriatic  acid,  which  is  naturally  formed 
in  the  stomach,  has  been  found  successful  in  correcting  this  disorder.  It  must  be  given 
after  meals,  diluted  with  water  iu  the  proportion  of  not  less  than  1 : 750,  or  daily  about 
15  grains  of  the  acid  in  24  ounces  of  water.  It  has  been  employed  in  calculous  com- 
plaints, and  perhaps  advantageously  in  so  far  as  they  were  associated  with  dyspeptic  dis- 
orders. In  this  way,  possibly,  it  may  be  found  useful  in  eczema  and  psoriasis  and  other 
diseases  of  the  skin,  which  sometimes  depend  upon  digestive  derangements.  Hydrochloric 
acid  was  at  one  time  regarded  as  a most  valuable  agent  in  the  treatment  of  diphtheria , 
but  recent  experience  has  shown  that  the  local  affection  is  of  subordinate  importance, 
and  that  the  mere  removal  of  the  exudation  does  not  modify  the  disease.  Moreover, 
chlorate  of  potassium  and  other  agents  are  more  eligible  than  the  acid  as  palliatives  of 
the  pharyngeal  inflammation.  The  same  may  be  said,  even  more  emphatically,  of  gan- 
grenous, mercurial,  scorbutic,  and  other  forms  of  ulcerative  stomatitis.  According  to 
Voltolini,  /?s/i-5fme.s  lodged  in  the  pharynx  are  rendered  flexible,  and  may  finally  be  broken 
up,  by  a mixture  of  4 parts  of  hydrochloric  acid  and  240  parts  of  water,  the  teeth  being 
first  protected  by  oil  or  lard.  The  method  is  probably  not  to  be  relied  on.  A poisonous 
dose  of  this  acid  should  be  counteracted  by  magnesia,  soap,  bicarbonate  of  sodium,  or,  in 
the  absence  of  these,  by  albumen.  The  dose  of  the  stronger  acid  is  from  Gm.  0.30—2.00 
(5  to  30  minims);  of  the  weaker  acid,  from  Gm.  1.30-4.00  (20  to  60  minims),  largely 
diluted  and  taken  through  a glass  tube.  As  a gargle,  Gm.  4-8  of  the  stronger  acid  may 
be  diluted  in  Gm.  350-400  (10  or  12  ounces)  of  barley- waiter  sweetened  with  honey. 

ACIDUM  HYDROCYANICUM  DILUTUM,  U.  S.,  Br.— Diluted 

Hydrocyanic  Acid. 

Acidum  hydrocyanatum  s.  borussicum. — Prussic  acid , E. ; Acide  cyanhydrique  s.  hydro- 
cyanique , Fr. ; Cyanic asserstoffsdure , Blausaure , G.  ; Acido  cianhidrico , Sp. 

Formula  IICN  — HCy.  Molecular  weight  26.98.  Strength  2 per  cent.  HCy. 

Origin. — Hydrocyanic  acid  was  discovered  by  Scheele  (1782);  Berthollet  (1803) 
ascertained  it  to  be  a compound  of  hydrogen,  carbon,  and  nitrogen  ; and  Guy  Lussac 
(1815)  succeeded  in  analyzing  it  and  in  isolating  the  radical  cyanogen,  CN.  The  acid  has 
been  found  in  the  root  of  Janipha  Manihot,  and  in  the  bark,  leaves,  flowers,  and  seeds  of 
many  shrubs  and  trees  belonging  to  the  sub-orders  Amygdalese  and  Pomese  of  the  order 
Rosacese.  It  occurs  in  the  free  state  only  in  some  of  the  more  juicy  parts  of  these 


64 


ACID  mi  HYDROCYANICUM  DILUTUM. 


plants,  but  a larger  quantity  is  formed  on  macerating  the  parts  indicated  in  cold  water, 
when  the  amygdalin  contained  therein  is  split  by  the  action  of  emulsin  or  a similar 
ferment  into  sugar,  oil  of  bitter  almonds,  and  hydrocyanic  acid  ; C20H27NOn  (amygdalin) 
-j-  2H20  yields  2C6Hi206  (glucose)  + C7H60  (oil  of  bitter  almonds)  + HCN  (hydrocyanic 
acid).  It  is  likewise  found  among  the  products  of  the  reaction  of  nitric  and  nitrous  acids 
upon  many  organic  compounds,  and  of  gaseous  ammonia  upon  incandescent  charcoal. 
For  medicinal  purposes  it  is  mostly  prepared  by  the  decomposition  of  potassium  ferro- 
cyanide  by  means  of  sulphuric  acid. 

Preparation. — Place  20  Gin.  of  potassium  ferrocyanide  in  a tubulated  retort,  and 
add  to  it  40  Cc.  of  water.  Connect  the  neck  of  the  retort  (which  is  to  be  directed 
upward),  by  means  of  a bent  tube,  with  a well-cooled  condenser,  the  delivery-tube  of 
which  terminates  in  a receiver  surrounded  with  ice-cold  water  and  containing  65  Cc.  of 
distilled  water.  All  the  joints  of  the  apparatus,  except  the  neck  of  the  receiver,  having 
been  made  air-tight,  pour  into  the  retort,  through  the  tubulure,  8 Cc.  of  sulphuric  acid 
previously  diluted  with  25  Cc.  of  water.  Agitate  the  retort  gently,  and  then  heat  it  in  a 
sand-bath  so  as  to  keep  the  liquid  in  brisk  ebullition  until  about  one-half  of  its  volume 
has  passed  over  into  the  receiver.  Detach  the  receiver,  and  add  to  its  contents  so  much 
distilled  water  as  may  be  required  to  bring  the  product  to  the  strength  of  2 per  cent,  of 
absolute  hydrocyanic  acid. — U.  S. 

The  process  of  the  British  Pharmacopoeia  is  similar  to  the  foregoing,  differing  chiefly 
in  distilling  from  a weaker  solution.  The  proportions  employed  are  2?  ounces  of  potas- 
sium ferrocyanide  dissolved  in  10  ounces  of  water,  and  1 fluidounce  of  sulphuric  acid 
diluted  with  4 ounces  of  water ; the  receiver  contains  8 ounces  of  distilled  water,  and 
the  distillation  is  continued  until  the  liquid  is  increased  to  17  fluidounces,  when  it  is 
diluted  with  distilled  water  so  as  to  contain  2 per  cent,  of  hydrocyanic  acid. 

On  mixing  diluted  sulphuric  acid  with  the  solution  of  potassium  ferrocyanide  in  the 
cold,  only  one-half  of  the  latter  salt  is  decomposed,  with  the  formation  of  potassium 
sulphate  and  hydroferrocyanic  acid,  thus  : K4FeC6N6  (potassium  ferrocyanide)  + 2H2S04 
yields  2K2S04  + H4FeC6N6  (hydroferrocyanic  acid).  This  last  compound  may  be  obtained 
by  adding  ether  to  the  mixture,  when  the  acid  will  be  separated  as  a whitish  powder  or 
pearly  scales.  On  the  application  of  heat  to  the  mixture  this  acid  reacts  with  the 
remaining  potassium  ferrocyanide  and  sulphuric  acid,  yielding  hydrocyanic  acid,  which 
distils  over,  potassium  sulphate,  which  remains  in  solution,  and  ferrocyanide  of  iron  and 
potassium  (Everitt’s  salt),  which  precipitates  as  a white  powder,  rapidly  turning  green, 
and  finally  blue,  in  the  presence  of  oxygen.  The  reaction  is  explained  in  the  following: 
H4FeC6N6  + K4FeC6N6  + H2S04  = 6HCN  (hydrocyanic  acid)  + K2S04  + K2Fe(FeC?N6) 
(Everitt’s  salt).  2 molecules  of  potassium  ferrocyanide  with  3 of  sulphuric  acid  yield, 
therefore,  finally,  6 molecules  of  hydrocyanic  acid,  3 of  potassium  sulphate,  and  1 of 
Everitt’s  salt,  the  latter  having  a white  color,  but  turning  rapidly  blue  on  exposure. 

The  preparation  of  official  hydrocyanic  acid  by  the  above  process  presents  no  difficul- 
ties. Distilling  the  acid  over  a naked  fire  would  cause  concussions  endangering  the  safety 
of  the  retort.  The  Pharmacopoeia  very  properly  orders  the  retort  to  be  placed  in  a sand- 
bath,  or  an  ash-bath  may  be  substituted  for  it.  The  complete  decomposition  of  the 
potassium  ferrocyanide  and  the  distillation  of  the  hydrocyanic  acid  are  readily  effected, 
the  entire  amount  being  obtainable  at  a temperature  little  exceeding  that  of  boiling  water. 
The  contamination  of  the  distillate  with  the  contents  of  the  retort,  which  may  occur  in 
consequence  of  spirting,  is  easily  prevented  by  substituting  a flask  for  the  retort  or  by 
keeping  the  neck  of  the  latter  in  a slightly  elevated  position. 

The  strength  of  the  distillate  may  be  determined  by  weighing  100  grains  of  it  in  a 
small  beaker  containing  some  distilled  water,  and  precipitating  completely  with  silver 
nitrate ; the  precipitate  of  silver  cyanide  is  collected  upon  a tared  filter,  washed,  dried  at 
at  100°  C.  (212°  F.),  and  weighed.  From  the  excess  of  this  weight  over  10  grains  the 
amount  of  distilled  water  is  easily  calculated,  which  must  be  added  to  the  distillate,  the 
precise  weight  of  which  has  been  ascertained,  in  order  to  obtain  it  of  the  official  strength. 
The  Pharmacopoeia  prescribes  the  following  method  for  ascertaining  the  strength  of  the 
distillate:  Into  a 100  Cc.  flask  put  0.27  Gm.  of  the  distillate,  together  with  sufficient 
water  and  magnesia  to  make  an  opaque  mixture  of  about  10  Cc.  To  this  add  2 or  3 
drops  of  potassium-chromate  solution,  and  then  decinormal  silver-nitrate  solution,  until  a 
permanent  red  tint  is  produced.  Each  cubic  centimeter  of  silver  solution  used  will  indi- 
cate 1 per  cent,  of  absolute  HCN  ( U . N.)  ; from  this  the  amount  of  water  to  be  added 
to  the  distillate  can  at  once  be  calculated ; for  instance,  if  3.5  Cc.  of  TN7  silver  solution 
were  necessary  to  produce  the  permanent  color  caused  by  formation  of  silver  chromate, 


ACIDXJM  HYDROCYANICUM  DILUTUM. 


65 


then  every  100  parts  of  distillate  require  the  addition  of  75  parts  of  distilled  water, 
because  2:3.5:  : 100:175.  The  object  of  adding  magnesia  in  the  foregoing  test  is  to 
neutralize  the  free  acid ; an  excess  of  magnesia,  not  being  hurtful,  serves  as  a desirable 
background  for  the  red  color  of  silver  chromate,  which  latter  does  not  appear  permanent 
until  all  the  hydrocyanic  acid  present  has  been  converted  into  silver  cyanide.  After 
proper  dilution  it  should  at  once  be  put  into  clean  small  vials,  well  corked. 

The  amount  of  hydrocyanic  acid  contained  in  the  finished  product  may  also  be  deter- 
mined volumetrically  by  the  method  above  stated,  using,  however,  1.35  Gm.  of  the  dilute 
acid  in  place  of  0.27  ; in  this  case  each  Cc.  of  silver  solution  used  will  indicate  0.2,  or 
one-fifth,  of  1 per  cent. 

The  Br.  Ph.  requires  that  270  grains  of  dilute  acid,  made  alkaline  by  the  addition  of 
soda,  shall  require  1000  grain-measures  of  volumetric  silver-nitrate  solution  before  a per- 
manent precipitate  appears.  This  is  essentially  Liebig’s  method,  depending  upon  the 
formation  of  a double  salt,  KAgCy2,  which  is  not  decomposed  by  an  excess  of  alkali. 
The  permanent  turbidity  occurs  when  all  the  hydrocyanic  acid  present  is  in  combination 
as  the  double  cyanide,  and  the  further  addition  of  silver  solution  then  causes  decomposi- 
tion, insoluble  silver  cyanide  separating. 

Diluted  hydrocyanic  acid  may  be  advantageously  prepared  from  several  cyanides. 
Potassium  cyanide,  however,  is  not  well  adapted  for  this  purpose,  owing  to  the  diffi- 
culty of  obtaining  it  absolutely  pure ; but  even  if  the  salt  were  decomposed  by  the 
requisite  quantity  of  tartaric  acid  to  form  potassium  bitartrate,  the  portion  of  the 
latter  salt  remaining  in  solution  would  tend  to  speedily  decompose  the  acid,  unless  dis- 
tillation were  resorted  to.  A convenient  method  for  obtaining  an  acid  suitable  for  imme- 
diate use  is  the  following  : 

Take  of  Silver  Cyanide  6 Gm. ; Hydrochloric  acid  5 Cc.  ; Distilled  Water  55  Cc.  Mix 
the  hydrochloric  acid  with  the  distilled  water,  add  the  silver  cyanide,  and  shake  the  whole 
together  in  a glass-stoppered  vial.  When  the  precipitate  formed  has  subsided  pour  oft’ 
the  clear  liquid. — U.  S. 

The  hydrochloric  acid  decomposes  the  silver  cyanide,  forming  insoluble  silver  chloride 
and  hydrocyanic  acid  ; thus,  AgCy  -j-  HC1  = AgCl  + HCy. 

The  French  Codex  employs  a mixture  of  mercury  cyanide  and  ammonium  chloride,  the 
latter  being  used  to  produce  readily  soluble  and  fusible  double  salts.  The  mixture  is 
treated  with  hydrochloric  acid,  and  the  resulting  gas  passed  first  over  marble  to  remove 
hydrochloric  acid,  and  then  over  calcium  chloride  to  remove  water,  into  a narrow  tube 
placed  in  a refrigerating  mixture.  The  anhydrous  acid  is  condensed,  and  is  diluted  with 
nine  times  its  weight  of  distilled  water.  This  process  presents  no  advantages  whatever. 
On  the  contrary,  owing  to  the  concentration  of  the  acid  as  at  first  condensed,  precautions 
are  necessary  to  avoid  dangerous  results  in  handling  this  volatile  liquid. 

Properties. — Anhydrous  hydrocyanic  acid  is  a colorless,  mobile  liquid  which  con- 
geals at  — 15°  C.  (5°  F.)  to  feathery  crystals,  has  the  density  .697  at  18°  C.  (64.4°  F.), 
boils  at  26.5°  C.  (79.7°  F.),  and  when  ignited  burns  with  a slightly  luminous  flame  to 
carbonic  anhydride  and  nitrogen.  It  has  a strong  odor,  resembling  that  of  oil  of  bitter 
almond,  and  is  extremely  poisonous.  It  is  the  hydride  of  the  radical  cyanogen,  and  its 
composition  is  expressed  by  the  formula  HCN  = HCy.  It  reddens  litmus-paper  slightly 
and  transiently,  and  with  alkalies  yields  crystallizable  salts  having  a strong  alkaline 
reaction,  and  producing  with  an  acidulated  mixture  of  ferrous  and  ferric  salts  a pre- 
cipitate of  Prussian  blue.  Most  of  its  salts,  on  being  treated  with  diluted  mineral  or 
many  organic  acids,  yield  hydrocyanic  acid,  and  are  decomposed  by  strong  nitric  acid, 
with  the  evolution  of  nitrogen  and  other  gases ; silver  cyanide  dissolves  in  boiling 
nitric  acid,  the  solution  containing  silver  nitrate.  A solution  of  an  alkali  cyanide  mixed 
with  solution  of  picric  acid  and  heated  to  about  60°  C.  (140°  F.)  acquires  a deep-red 
color,  from  the  production  of  a salt  of  isopurpuric  or  picrocyanic  acid , C8H5N506  (Hlasi- 
wetz,  1859). 

Hydrocyanic  acid  is  soluble  in  water,  alcohol,  and  ether  in  all  proportions.  The  medi- 
cinal acid  contains  2 per  cent,  of  anhydrous  acid ; the  aqueous  solution  of  this  strength 
has  the  spec.  grav.  0.997  ( Br .).  The  methods  for  ascertaining  the  strength  have  been 
given  above.  Minute  qantities  of  hydrocyanic  acid  may  be  detected  by  Schoenbein’s 
(see  Guaiacum)  or  by  Liebig’s  test  (1847);  the  latter  is  applied  by  adding  a little 
ammonium  sulphide,  evaporating  at  a moderate  heat  to  dryness,  and  adding  to  the  residue 
a drop  of  diluted  ferric  chloride,  when  the  blood-red  color  of  ferric  sulphocyanate  will 
appear. 

Under  various  circumstances  hydrocyanic  acid  is  decomposed  on  keeping,  evolving 
b 


66 


ACIDUM  HYDROCYANICUM  DILUTUM. 


ammonia  and  depositing  a brown  or  blackish  substance  containing  paracyanogen,  C3N3 
or  C6N6.  The  causes  of  these  changes  have  not  been  fully  explained : it  is,  however, 
well  known  that  the  presence  of  alkalies  and  exposure  to  the  light  favor  decomposition  ; 
and  since,  by  heating  hydrocyanic  acid  in  the  presence  of  free  mineral  acids,  ammonium 
formate  is  apt  to  be  produced,  it  will  be  seen  that  even  recently  prepared  dilute  hydro- 
cyanic acid  may  be  prone  to  change,  and  that,  if  altered,  the  decomposition  cannot  be 
arrested  by  distillation  except  after  the  previous  addition  of  sufficient  sulphuric  acid. 
The  addition  of  a minute  quantity  of  hydrochloric  acid,  and  of  alcohol  in  place  of  a 
portion  of  the  water,  to  the  recently  prepared  acid,  appears  to  retard  that  change,  but  does 
not  altogether  prevent  it.  The  stronger  the  hydrocyanic  acid  is,  the  more  liable  it  is  to 
decomposition.  The  acid  known  as  Scheele’s  acid,  which  contains  5 per  cent,  of  HCy,  is 
therefore  not  adapted  for  medicinal  use. 

Another  difficulty  in  preserving  the  strength  of  hydrocyanic  acid  must  be  attributed  to 
its  volatility  and  the  loss  suffered  by  the  medicinal  acid  on  the  frequent  opening  of 
the  vial  containing  it.  This  has  (1873  and  1874)  been  the  subject  of  investigation 
by  A.  Towerzey  and  others.  J.  Williams  states  that  an  addition  of  20  per  cent,  of 
glycerin  will  preserve  acid  up  to  the  strength  of  about  5 per  cent.,  and  J.  U.  Lloyd 
(1878)  observed  that  alcoholic  hydrocyanic  acid  could  be  kept  in  partially-filled  bottles 
unaltered  and  without  material  loss  of  acid  for  three  years.  Careful  observations  made 
by  large  manufacturers  have  thus  far  failed  to  suggest  a desirable  remedy  for  the  well- 
known  instability  of  hydrocyanic  acid.  The  use  of  diluted  alcohol  as  prescribed  by 
the  Pharmacopoeia  of  1880  gave  no  better  results  than  the  present  method.  Weaker 
solutions  of  hydrocyanic  acid  are  known  to  keep  better,  but  even  these  are  not  stable. 
The  U.  S.  and  Br.  directions  to  keep  the  acid  in  a cool,  dark  place  should  always  be 
observed. 

Impurities. — On  adding  a few  drops  of  solution  of  corrosive  sublimate,  and  heating 
to  boiling,  a reduction  of  the  mercuric  salt  to  calomel  or  to  mercury  will  indicate  the  pres- 
ence of  formic  acid.  Sulphuric  acid  is  recognized  by  the  white  precipitate  produced  on  the 
addition  of  barium  chloride.  Hydrochloric  and  phosphoric  acids  are  detected  by  adding 
solution  of  borax,  evaporating  to  dryness,  and  dissolving  the  residue  in  diluted  nitric  acid  ; 
a white  precipitate  with  silver  nitrate  will  indicate  the  former,  and  a yellow  precipitate 
with  ammonium  molybdate  the  latter,  impurity. 

Derivative. — Hydrocyanic  Ether,  ethylcyanide  or  propionitrile,  C3H5N  = C2H5CN. 
Prepared  according  to  Pelouze’s  process  (1834),  by  distilling  barium  ethylsulphate  with 
potassium  cyanide,  it  has  a garlicky  odor,  which  is  due  to  the  isomeric  ethylcarbylamin , 
and  is  difficult  to  remove.  A purer  product  is  obtained,  according  to  Williamson  (1853), 
by  digesting  ethyl  iodide  with  4 parts  of  alcohol  containing  an  equivalent  quantity  of 
potassium  cyanide  until  decomposed,  and  then  distilling.  When  perfectly  pure  it  is  a 
colorless  liquid  of  the  density  0.787,  has  an  agreeable  ethereal  odor,  suggesting  that  of 
hydrocyanic  acid,  is  almost  insoluble  in  water,  and  boils  at  97°  C.  (206.6°  F.).  It  is 
poisonous,  but  less  so  than  hydrocyanic  acid. 

Action  and  Uses. — In  man,  hydrocyanic  acid,  when  taken  in  medicinal  but  still  over- 
active  doses,  may  produce  the  following  symptoms:  irritation  of  the  throat,  salivation, 
warmth  at  the  epigastrium,  lightness  of  the  head,  dizziness,  buzzing  in  the  ears,  headache, 
numbness,  a dusky  countenance,  staggering,  constriction  of  the  chest,  palpitation  of  the 
heart,  a frequent  or  abnormally  slow  pulse,  weariness,  and  drowsiness.  Poisonous  but  not 
fatal  doses  have  produced  the  following  effects  : insensibility,  usually  a feeble  pulse,  dilated 
pupils,  a turgid  and  dusky  face,  heat  of  head,  convulsions  or  rigidity,  or  both  in  suc- 
cession, but  no  paralysis.  Consciousness  and  muscular  power  return  rapidly,  considering 
the  gravity  of  the  initial  symptoms.  The  symptoms  attributed  by  Martin  to  chronic 
poisoning  by  this  acid  are  dyspnoea,  headache,  anorexia,  irritation  of  the  throat,  cough, 
thirst,  and  debility,  followed  by  feebleness  of  heart,  anaemia,  muscular  ataxia,  and  debil- 
ity (Mmer.  Journ.  Med.  Sci.,  Sept.  1888,  p.  328).  This  acid  may  be  detected  in  the  urine. 
It  can  be  developed  from  several  articles  used  as  food,  such  as  bitter  almond,  and  a bean, 
pois  d’Achery  ( Phaseolus  lunatus ),  which  grows  in  Mauritius,  and  some  varieties  of  which 
are  used  as  food  ( Practitioner , xxxii.  434).  In  fatal  cases  it  is  remarkable  that  there  are 
no  convulsions,  but  relaxation  rather.  The  pupils  are  usually  dilated  and  the  eyes  lus- 
trous, and  the  pulse  sometimes  grows  slower  until  extinction.  After  death  the  skin  is 
purplish,  and  all  the  internal  veins  are  gorged  with  blood,  which  is  dark  and  uncoagu- 
lated. The  eyes  retain  their  peculiar  glistening  aspect.  The  mucous  membrane  of  the 
stomach  is  usually  congested. 

The  dangerous  potency  of  this  acid  necessarily  restricts  its  use  in  medicine.  It  has 


ACID UM  HYDROFL UORICUM. 


67 


been  employed  with  a certain  advantage  in  the  treatment  of  whooping  cough , but  is  at 
best  a palliative  merely.  The  same  may  be  said  of  its  influence  in  cases  of  purely  ner- 
vous cough , spasmodic  dysphagia , and  angina  pectoris.  It  is  related  that  in  a case  of  the 
night  cough  of  children , which  had  resisted  every  other  treatment,  the  attacks  ceased 
almost  abruptly  on  the  administration  of  this  acid  in  doses  of  from  one-half  to  three- 
quarters  of  a minim  every  3 hours  (Macdonald).  In  gastralgia  there  is  perhaps  more 
reason  to  anticipate  advantage  from  its  use,  and,  as  the  disease  is  often  rebellious,  the 
possibility  of  relieving  it  by  prussic  acid  should  not  be  overlooked.  Most  of  the  cases 
supposed  to  illustrate  its  efficacy  were  clearly  not  examples  of  pure  gastralgia,  but  of 
painful  dyspepsia,  and  very  possibly  instances  of  gastric  ulcer  were  included  among 
them.  Probably  in  all  the  element  pain  was  most  beneficially  influenced ; in  some, 
vomiting  was  palliated  or  arrested.  These  effects  appear  to  indicate  an  anaesthetic  action 
in  the  acid,  which  is  more  distinctly  manifested  by  the  topical  use  of  the  medicine  in 
various  diseases  of  the  skin  in  which  tingling,  itching,  and  other  distressing  sensations 
exist. 

The  average  dose  of  diluted  hydrocyanic  acid  is  Gm.  0.10-0.15  (2  or  3 minims),  given 
several  times  a day  in  some  neutral  vehicle  with  the  addition  of  a few  drops  of  alcohol. 
It  should  be  dispensed  in  vials  covered  with  black  paper  or  varnish,  to  prevent  the  de- 
composing action  of  the  light ; and  a minimum  dose  should  be  directed  when  a fresh 
prescription  is  made.  From  Gm.  2-4  (30  minims)  to  a fluidrachm,  in  Gm.  32  (a 
fluidounce)  of  distilled  water  or  rose-water,  forms  an  appropriate  lotion,  which,  however, 
should  not  be  applied  to  the  skin  unless  it  is  perfectly  unbroken. 

Although  the  experiments  of  Preyer  upon  guinea-pigs  demonstrate  that  hydrocyanic 
acid  and  atropine  are  mutually  antidotal  when  given  simultaneously  or  in  quick  succession, 
and  in  duly-proportioned  doses,  it  is  nevertheless  practically  true  that  as  regards  man 
there  is  no  antidote  to  the  poisonous  action  of  hydrocyanic  acid.  The  most  efficient 
remedy  consists  in  the  stimulation  produced  by  the  shock  of  cold  water  dashed  at  inter- 
vals upon  the  chest  and  spine.  Subordinate  in  efficiency,  but  not  to  be  neglected,  are 
the  application  of  ammonia  to  the  nostrils,  the  stimulus  of  induced  electricity,  artificial 
respiration,  and  the  judicious  agitation  of  the  patient. 

ACIDUM  HYDROFLUORICUM.— Hydrofluoric  Acid. 

Acidum  fluorhydricum. — Hydrogen  fluoride , E.  ; Acide  fluorhydrique , Acide  phtorique , 
Fr.  ; Fluorwasserstoffsdure , G. 

Formula  HF.  Molecular  weight  20. 

Origin. — Fluorine  exists  in  nature  in  combination  with  calcium  as  fluor-spar , also 
in  cryolite  (kryolite)  and  other  minerals ; small  quantities  of  fluorine  have  been  found 
in  some  mineral  and  potable  waters,  in  bones,  and  in  the  ashes  of  various  plants.  The 
use  of  fluor-spar  for  etching  on  glass  was  known  in  the  seventeenth  century,  but  hydro- 
fluoric acid  was  discovered  by  Scheele  (1771),  and  first  prepared  pure  by  Gay-Lussac  and 
Thenard  (1808). 

Preparation. — Powdered  fluor-spar  (or  cryolite)  which  is  free  from  silica  is  heated 
with  sulphuric  acid  in  a retort  of  platinum  or  lead,  and  the  gas  is  conducted  into  distilled 
water  contained  in  a well-cooled  receiver  of  the  same  metal.  Great  caution  is  necessary 
to  prevent  contact  with  the  vapors  and  avoid  inhaling  them. 

Properties. — Pure  hydrofluoric  acid  forms  a thin,  colorless  fuming  liquid  which  is 
lighter  than  water,  does  not  solidify  at  —35°  C.  (—31°  F.),  boils  at  19.4°  C.  (67°  F.), 
and  is  freely  soluble  in  water.  The  aqueous  solution,  which  is  sometimes  called  fluoric 
acid,  acide  fluorique,  is  heavier  than  water;  a solution  having  the  density  1.15  contains 
35.37  per  cent.  HF,  and  boils  constantly  at  120°  C.  (248°  F.)  (Bineau).  Like  the  pure 
acid,  it  is  extremely  caustic,  and  causes  severe  ulceration  when  applied  to  the  skin.  It 
corrodes  glass  and  attacks  most  organic  and  inorganic  compounds,  but  does  not  act  upon 
paraffin ; it  is  best  preserved  in  bottles  made  of  lead  or  of  gutta-percha. 

The  element  fluorine  was  isolated  by  H.  Moissau  (1886)  by  electrolysis  of  anhydrous 
hydrogen  fluoride.  It  is  a gaseous  body  similar  in  its  properties  to  chlorine  : its  color  is 
more  yellowish  than  that  of  the  latter,  and  has  a stronger  affinity  toward  most  bodies 
than  this.  Platinum  is  not  markedly  acted  on  by  it  even  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.). 

Uses. — Hydrofluoric  acid  in  the  gaseous  state  and  its  aqueous  solution  are  used  for 
etching  glass.  Ammonium  fluoride  has  a similar  effect ; it  forms  white  or  colorless  scales 
or  prisms,  which  are  deliquescent  and  should  be  kept  in  a gutta-percha  bottle.  Accord- 
ing to  F.  L.  Slocum  (1880),  a mixture  suitable  for  writing  on  glass,  like  that  sold  at  one 


68 


ACIDUM  HYPOPHOSPHOBOSUM  DILUTUM. 


time  as  diamond  ink , is  made  by  mixing  barium  sulphate  3 parts,  ammonium  fluoride  1 
part,  and  sulphuric  acid  sufficient  to  form  a semfluid  mixture  ; if  kept  in  glass  this  should 
be  coated  on  the  inside  with  paraffin,  wax,  or  gutta-percha. 

Action  and  Uses.— According  to  Chevy  {Bull  de  Therap .,  cix.  108),  hydrofluoric 
acid  powerfully  restrains  fermentation  and  putrefaction.  In  the  proportion  of  30V-  it 
prevents  these  changes  in  milk,  soup,  wine,  etc.,  and  it  is  said  that  a solution  of  or 

YoVo  is  not  far  inferior  to  corrosive  sublimate  in  removing  the  fetor  from  wounds 
etc.  Similar  results  have  been  more  recently  reported  by  Gottbrecht  ( Therap . Monatsh 
iii.  411).  In  1855  it  was  described  as  having  a penetrating  smell  and  powerfully  irri- 
tating the  air-passages.  Even  its  vapors  were  said  to  get  beneath  the  nails,  causing 
great  pain,  and  a single  drop  of  it  on  the  skin  produced  a white  spot,  followed  by  vesi- 
cation and  a purulent  discharge  (Strumpf).  Simpson  of  Edinburgh  experimented  with 
it  as  a caustic,  and  Hastings  prescribed  it  for  phthisis.  The  latter  use  of  it  was  tried  in 
France,  where  the  exemption  of  engravers  upon  glass,  who  used  this  acid  in  their 
work,  from  pulmonary  disease  (. Bull,  de  Therap .,  cix.  108),  was  observed  by  Bastien, 
Charcot,  Seiler,  Bergeron,  Trousseau,  Martin,  and  others.  Bastien,  indeed,  employed  it 
also  in  asthma,  whooping  cough,  and  diphtheria,  but  soon  relinquished  these  uses  of 
it.  Dujardin-Beaumetz  placed  his  consumptive  patients  in  a special  chamber  of  the 
capacity  of'  about  22  cubic  metres,  where  the  vapor  of  1 grain  of  the  acid  was  diffused 
from  a leaden  crucible  placed  in  a hot-water  bath  ( Nouvelles  med .,  p.  100).  From  1885- 
87  it  was  employed  in  like  manner  by  Sellier  and  Garcin.  The  revival  of  this  use  of 
the  acid  appears  to  have  been  due  to  the  bacillar  theory  of  tuberculous  phthisis  ; but 
hardly  any  who  have  reported  their  results  (except  Gager,  Centralbl.  f.  Therap .,  vi.  603) 
observed  any  benefit  beyond  an  increase  of  appetite  and  lessened  expectoration  ; and 
Polyak  concluded  that  it  was  in  every  respect  detrimental  (ibid.,  vii.  277).  A full 
account  of  the  methods  of  employing  the  acid  was  furnished  by  Jarjavay  {Bull,  de 
Therap.,  cxiv.  211,  277).  Hydrofluoric  acid  was  used  by  Woakes  in  twenty  cases  of 
goitre,  of  which  seventeen  were  said  to  have  been  cured.  The  acid  was  given  in  doses 
of  from  15  minims  to  1 drachm,  thrice  daily,  largely  diluted  with  water.  It  is  true  that 
injections  of  iodine  and  the  administration  of  iron  and  bitter  tonics  formed  part  of  the 
treatment  ( Lancet , 1881,  i.  497).  Waddell  employed  it  as  an  arterial  sedative  in  aneurism. 
Dr.  DaCosta  concluded  from  clinical  observation  that  the  fluorides  are  prompt  emetics 
without  depressing,  and  relieve  pain  without  producing  sleep.  But  they  readily  derange 
the  stomach,  and  even  in  small  doses  produce  anorexia  {Med.  Record,  xx.  168). 

ACIDUM  HYPOPHOSPHOROSUM  DILUTUM,  U.  S.— Diluted 
Hypophosphorous  Acid. 

Acide  hypophosphoreux , Fr. ; Verdiinnte  unterphosphorige  Saare,  G. 

Formula  HH2P02.  Molecular  weight  65.88. 

Hypophosphorous  acid  was  discovered  by  Dulong  (1816),  and  more  fully  investigated 
by  H.  Bose  (1826). 

Preparations. — Whenever  calcium  or  barium  hydroxide  mixed  with  water  is 
boiled  with  phosphorus,  the  respective  hypophosphites  are  formed  and  enter  into  solution, 
hydrogen  phosphide  being  eliminated  at  the  same  time,  as  shown  by  the  following  equa- 
tion : 3Ca(OH)2  + P8  + 6H,0  = 3Ca(H2P02)2  -|-  2PH3 ; some  phosphate  is  no  doubt 
also  formed  at  the  same  time.  In  order  to  avoid  the  generation  of  offensive  gases,  and 
also  to  increase  the  yield  of  hypophosphite,  E.  Scheffer  as  early  as  1858  suggested  the 
use  of  phosphorus  which  had  been  partially  oxidized  under  water  by  means  of  atmo- 
spheric air;  at  the  same  time  it  was  found  that  the  operation  could  be  carried  on  at  a 
much  lower  temperature,  most  advantageously  at  about  55°  C.  (130°  F.).  For  the 
preparation  of  hypophosphorous  acid  any  of  the  soluble  hypophosphites  may  be  chosen ; 
the  pure  acid  has  been  obtained  in  crystals  by  Markoe  and  others ; it  possesses  strong 
reducing  properties. 

The  Pharmacopoeia  recognizes  only  the  10  per  cent,  solution  of  hypophosphorous  acid, 
but  for  manufacturing  purposes  a 50  per  cent,  solution  is  found  in  the  market ; its  prep- 
aration presents  no  difficulty,  as  the  solution  can  be  evaporated  without  loss.  The 
National  Formulary  recommends  the  following  plan  : Mix  a solution  of  208  parts  of 
potassium  hypophosphite  in  588  parts  of  water  with  a solution  of  300  parts  of  tartaric 
acid  in  600  parts  of  diluted  alcohol ; the  mixture  is  to  be  set  aside  in  a cold  place  for 
twelve  hours,  and  then  carefully  decanted  and  filtered.  The  filtrate  having  been  weighed, 
the  alcohol  is  evaporated  on  a water-bath,  and  the  original  weight  restored  by  addition 


ACIDUM  LACTICUM. 


69 


of  distilled  water.  This  constitutes  the  10  per  cent,  acid ; any  acid  of  greater  strength 
may  be  obtained  from  it  by  carefully  evaporating  to  the  required  percentage  ; for  instance, 
if  50  per  cent,  acid  be  desired,  evaporate  the  10  per  cent,  acid  to  one-fifth  of  its  weight, 
etc.  Conversely,  a 50  per  cent,  acid  can  readily  be  reduced  to  the  10  per  cent,  acid 
by  adding  to  it  four  times  its  weight  of  distilled  water.  Moerk  (1889)  suggested  the 
use  of  calcium  hypophosphite  and  oxalic  acid  in  boiling  solution,  as  yielding  a much 
better  product.  To  69  parts  of  calcium  hypophosphite  dissolved  in  450  parts  of  boiling 
water  are  added  50.4  parts  of  oxalic  acid  dissolved  in  200  parts  of  boiling  water ; the 
mixture  is  boiled  for  half  an  hour,  and,  after  cooling,  filtered  through  cotton  and  the 
precipitate  washed  with  cold  water.  The  filtrate  is  finally  evaporated  to  88  parts,  yield- 
ing a 60  per  cent,  acid,  which  can  be  diluted  as  desired;  at  15.5°  C.  (60°  F.)  this  acid 
has  a specific  gravity  of  1.2813. 

Properties. — Diluted  hypophosphorous  acid  is  a colorless,  odorless  liquid,  having  a 
specific  gravity  of  1.046  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.).  It  should  not  become  colored  upon  addition 
of  hydrogen  sulphide  (absence  of  lead,  etc.),  nor  should  different  portions,  neutralized 
with  ammonia-water,  yield  a precipitate  with  ammonium-sulphide  or  ammonium-oxalate 
solutions  (absence  of  iron  and  calcium).  Phosphoric,  sulphuric,  oxalic,  and  tartaric  acids 
would  be  indicated  by  barium  chloride.  The  strength  of  the  acid  should  be  determined 
volumetrically,  6.6  Gm.  of  the  liquid  (if  of  10  per  cent,  strength)  requiring  not  less  than 
10  Cc.  of  normal  potassa  solution.  The  pharmacopoeial  test  with  potassium  perman- 
ganate depends  upon  the  reducing  power  of  the  acid  : 0.5  Gm.  of  the  10  per  cent,  acid  will 
require  30.35  Cc.  of  yjj-  KMn04  solution  for  complete  oxidation,  and  if  35  Cc.  of  the 
latter  be  used,  4.7  Cc.  oxalic-acid  solution  will  suffice  to  discharge  the  red  color. 

Action  and  Uses. — Dilute  hypophosphorous  acid  is  never  used  as  a therapeutic 
agent  by  itself,  but  in  combination  with  its  salts  in  the  form  of  syrups  and  solutions. 
Dose,  0.6  to  4.0  Cc.  (n^x-^j). 

ACIDUM  LACTICUM,  V.  S.,  Br JP.  G.— Lactic  Acid. 

Isolactic,  Ethyledene-lactic,  or  Oxy propionic  acid,  E. ; Acide  lactique , Fr.  ; Milchsdure, 
G. ; Acido  lactico,  Sp. 

Formula  HC3H5O3.  Molecular  weight  89.79.  Strength  75  per  cent.  Sp.  gr.  1.213 
at  15°  C.  (59°  F.). 

Acidum  lacticum  dilutum,  Br.,  Lactic  acid,  3 fluidounces ; water  sufficient  for  20 
fluidounces.  Sp.  gr.  1.040. 

Origin. — Lactic  acid  was  discovered  by  Scheele  (1780)  in  sour  milk,  in  which  it 
results  from  the  spontaneous  fermentation  of  the  sugar  of  milk  under  the  influence  of 
the  casein ; C12H24012  (milk-sugar)  yields  4HC3H503  (lactic  acid).  This  transformation 
of  the  former  into  the  latter  is  called  the  lactic  fermentation.  A similar  change  is  pro- 
duced in  dextrin,  glucose,  cane-sugar,  etc.  by  the  action  of  casein  and  other  protein  com- 
pounds ; lactic  acid  is  therefore  met  with  in  many  vegetable  products  which  have  turned 
sour.  T.  and  H.  Smith' s thebolactic  acid  of  opium  is  identical  with  the  lactic  acid  of 
milk ; but  the  sarcolactic  acid  of  meat-juice,  discovered  by  Berzelius  (1807),  and  recog- 
nized by  Liebig  as  differing  in  several  respects  from  the  lactic  acid  of  milk,  consists  of 
two  acids,  one  of  which,  known  as  paralactic  acid,  has  the  composition  given  above,  but 
is  dextrogyre,  and  the  solutions  of  its  salts  have  a levogyre  action.  The  second  lactic 
acid  of  flesh  is  like  that  of  milk,  optically  inactive,  but  is  ethylenelactic  acid,  having  the 
composition  CH2OH.CH2.COOH,  and  its  zinc  salt  is  soluble  in  absolute  alcohol.  Strecker 
(1858)  observed  that  by  heating  sarcolactic  acid  for  some  time  to  130°  or  140°  C.  (266° 
or  284°  F.)  the  anhydride  is  produced,  which,  dissolved  in  boiling  water,  yields  ordinary 
lactic  acid.  During  lactic  fermentation,  alcohol,  several  acids,  a peculiar  gum,  and  mannit 
are  formed  in  variable  proportions,  more  particularly  if  the  temperature  be  allowed  to 
vary  much  from  about  45°  C.  (113°  F.). 

Preparation. — 100  parts  of  sugar  are  dissolved  in  sufficient  water  to  yield  a solu- 
tion of  8°  or  10°  B. ; 8 or  10  parts  of  fresh  cheese  and  50  parts  of  prepared  chalk  are 
added,  and  the  mixture  placed  for  several  weeks  in  a sunny  place,  when  calcium  lactate 
will  be  found  crystallized  (Pelouse).  Boutron  and  Fremy  dissolve  300  Gm.  of  milk-sugar 
in  4 liters  of  skimmed  milk,  expose  the  mixture  to  a temperature  of  from  20°  to  30°  C. 
(68°  to  84°  F.),  and  neutralize  every  other  day  with  sodium  bicarbonate.  When  it 
ceases  to  acquire  an  acid  reaction  the  liquid  is  boiled,  filtered  and  carefully  evaporated 
to  a syrupy  consistence ; this  is  dissolved  in  strong  alcohol,  the  sodium  precipitated  by 
sulphuric  acid,  and  the  lactic  acid  converted  into  calcium  lactate  by  the  addition  of 


70 


ACIDUM  LACTICUM. 


chalk.  Wackenroder  operates  in  the  same  manner,  except  that  an  excess  of  chalk  is 
added  before  fermentation  begins,  and  the  mixture  is  kept  at  24°  C.  (75.2°  F.),  and  the 
calcium  lactate  is  recrystallized  from  boiling  water.  This  salt,  obtained  by  one  of  the 
foregoing  processes,  is  then  decomposed  by  an  ascertained  accurate  amount  of  sulphuric 
or  oxalic  acid.  If  during  fermentation  the  lactic  acid  is  neutralized  by  commercial  zinc- 
white,  zinc  lactate  is  obtained,  which  may  be  decomposed  by  hydrogen  sulphide. 
Lautemann,  who  proposed  this  modification  (1860)  followed  in  the  main  Bensch’s  direc- 
tions, dissolving  6 pounds  of  cane-sugar  and  | ounce  of  tartaric  acid  in  35  pounds  of 
boiling  water,  adding  after  2 days  4 ounces  of  old  cheese  diffused  in  8 pounds  of  sour 
milk,  and  exposing  the  mixture  to  a temperature  of  40°  C.  (104°  F.).  Below  20°  C.  (68° 
F.)  the  production  of  lactic  acid  is  impeded ; above  40°  C.  (104°  F.)  butyric  acid  begins 
to  be  formed. 

A more  expeditious  method  for  the  preparation  of  lactic  acid  has  been  described  by  H. 
Kiliani  (1882)  : 500  Grin,  of  cane-sugar,  dissolved  in  250  Gm.  of  water,  are  converted 
into  invert-sugar  by  boiling  with  10  Ccm.  of  sulphuric  acid ; 450  Ccm.  of  solution,  made 
of  equal  parts  of  caustic  soda  and  water,  are  gradually  added,  and  the  mixture  is  heated 
to  60°  or  70°  C.,  until  it  ceases  to  react  for  sugar  with  Fehling’s  solution.  The  liquid  is 
neutralized  with  sulphuric  acid,  the  sodium  sulphate  allowed  to  crystallize,  and  the 
remainder  precipitated  by  alcohol  ; one-half  of  the  clear  alcoholic  liquid  is  heated,  neu- 
tralized with  zinc  carbonate,  mixed  with  the  other  half,  and  cooled,  when  zinc  lactate 
will  crystallize,  from  which  the  acid  may  be  obtained  in  the  usual  manner. 

Properties. — Lactic  acid  of  the  Pharmacopoeia  is  a syrupy,  colorless  liquid,  having 
no  odor,  a very  sour  taste,  and  the  specific  gravity  1.213;  it  absorbs  moisture  when 
exposed  to  damp  air ; the  pure  acid  is  colorless,  inodorous,  and  has  the  specific  gravity 
1.215  at  20.5°  C.  (68.9°  F.),  or,  according  to  Mendelejeff,  1.2485  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.).  In 
this  market  two  commercial  varieties  of  lactic  acid  are  largely  met  with,  designated 
respectively  as  concentrated  and  dilute  lactic  acid ; since  neither  specific  gravity  nor  per- 
centage is  indicated,  the  terms  are  meaningless  and  sure  to  lead  to  confusion.  It  unites 
in  all  proportions  with  water,  alcohol,  and  ether,  but  is  insoluble  in  chloroform,  carbon 
disulphide,  and  benzin.  It  forms  with  cold  concentrated  sulphuric  acid  a clear  liquid, 
which  on  heating  becomes  brown  and  black.  On  warming  the  acid  with  potassium  per- 
manganate the  odor  of  aldehyde  is  given  off.  When  kept  at  ordinary  temperature  over 
sulphuric  acid,  Wislicenus  (1870)  obtained  dilactic  acid , an  amorphous  bitter  anhydride 
of  the  composition  C6H10O5  — C3H402.C3H603.  The  same  compound  is  formed  from  lactic 
acid  at  from  110°  to  130°  C.  (230°  to  266°  F.),  and  at  about  150°  C.  (302°  F.)  the 
anhydride  lactid , C3H402,  is  obtained  in  volatile,  fusible  rhombic  plates.  Both  anhydrides 
are  insoluble  in  water,  but  on  prolonged  boiling  with  it,  or  more  rapidly  by  dissolving  in 
alkaline  liquids,  yield  lactic  acid.  When  distilled  at  a higher  temperature  or  when  heated 
in  the  open  air,  lactic  acid  decomposes,  giving  off  a suffocating  odor  and  forming  a spongy 
charcoal,  which  is  finally  consumed,  leaving  not  over  1 per  cent,  of  residue  (17  Si).  It 
coagulates  milk  and  albumen,  and  displaces  carbonic  and  acetic  acids  from  their  com- 
pounds, yielding  salts  which  are  soluble  in  water,  and  mostly  also  in  alcohol.  Lactic  acid 
on  being  oxidized  by  nitric  acid  yields  oxalic  acid,  and  by  treatment  with  chromic  acid 
formic  and  acetic  acids  are  produced.  On  oxidizing  ethene  lactic  acid  large  crystals  of 
malonic  acid , C3H404,  are  obtained.  90  grains  of  the  official  acid  are  neutralized  by  75 
grains  of  potassium  bicarbonate,  or  4.5  Gm.  of  the  acid  by  37.5  Cc.  of  volumetric 
solution  of  soda,  indicating  75  per  cent,  of  HC3II503,  phenolphtalein  being  used  as 
indicator  (17  Si). 

Impurities. — Treated  with  a hot  solution  of  potassa,  lactic  acid  is  not  materially 
colored;  if  it  readily  becomes  brown,  extractive  matters  are  present.  Dissolved  in 
strong  alcohol,  gum  and  some  mineral  salts  are  left  behind.  Glycerin,  glucose,  mannit, 
tartaric  acid,  and  most  salts  remain  undissolved  by  ether.  Acetic  and  butyric  acids 
are  recognized  by  their  odor,  which  becomes  more  apparent  on  warming.  For  detecting 
other  organic  and  mineral  acids  their  special  tests  may  be  applied.  In  the  diluted  acid 
calcium  salts  are  indicated  by  ammonium  oxalate  ; lead,  by  hydrogen  sulphide  ; zinc,  after 
neutralization  with  ammonia,  by  ammonium  sulphide  ; sulphuric  acid,  by  barium  chloride  ; 
sarcolactic  acid,  by  copper  sulphate;  hydrochloric  acid,  by  silver  nitrate;  and  oxalic  acid, 
by  calcium  chloride,  after  previously  diluting  the  acid  with  twenty  times  its  quantity  of 
water  and  neutralizing  with  ammonia.  On  saturating  the  acid  with  zinc  carbonate,  dry- 
ing at  100°  C.,  and  treating  with  absolute  alcohol,  zinc  sarcolactate  will  be  dissolved  ; also 
glycerin  and  mannit  if  present. 

On  adding  1 Cc.  of  lactic  acid,  drop  by  drop,  to  2 Cc.  of  ether,  no  turbidity,  either 


ACIDUM  LACTICUM. 


71 


transient  or  permanent,  should  be  observed  ( P . G.)  ; this  is  intended  to  prove  the  absence 
of  glycerin,  sugar,  mannit,  etc.  The  absence  of  sugars  is  also  determined  by  the  failure 
of  the  acid  producing  red  cuprous  oxide  on  being  added  to  hot  Fehling’s  solution.  Solu- 
tion of  copper  sulphate  should  have  no  effect  upon  a 10  per  cent,  solution  of  lactic  acid 
(absence  of  sarcolactic  acid).  The  limits  of  allowable  impurities  are  determined  as 
follows : 10  Cc.  of  a 1 per  cent,  aqueous  solution  of  the  acid  should  not  be  rendered 
opalescent  by  the  addition  of  1 Cc.  of  silver  nitrate  T.  S.  (limit  of  chloride).  On  mixing 
equal  volumes  of  lactic  and  colorless  sulphuric  acids  in  a small,  clean,  glass-stoppered 
vial,  the  mixture  should  not  acquire  a tint  deeper  than  a pale  straw  color  (absence  of  more 
than  traces  of  organic  impurities , such  as  sugar,  extractive,  etc.). 

Action  and  Uses. — Lactic  acid  is  normally  secreted  by  the  stomach,  and  may  be 
detected  in  the  sweat  and  urine.  Its  excess  in  the  system  seems  to  be  one  of  the  most 
striking  phenomena  of  rheumatism,  and  several  cases  have  been  published,  in  all  of  which 
its  free  administration  during  diabetes  occasioned  an  attack  of  articular  rheumatism. 
According  to  Mendel,  it  is  hypnotic  in  large  doses.  Lactic  acid  has  been  employed  in 
the  treatment  of  various  forms  of  dyspepsia , but  chiefly  in  those  presumed  to  depend 
upon  debility  of  the  stomach,  and  then  as  a solvent  for  pepsin.  Hayem  and  Lesage  con- 
sidered lactic  acid  one  of  the  best  remedies  for  infantile  diarrhoea.  They  used  a 2 per 
cent,  solution,  of  which  from  15  to  20  dessertspoonfuls  were  given  in  the  twenty -four 
hours  ( Annuaire  de  Therap .,  1888,  p.  80).  Their  results  have  been  confirmed  by  Shaw 
(New  York  Med.  Jour.,  xlviii.  123).  Huchard  did  not  find  that  tuberculous  diarrhoea 
was  controlled  by  doses  of  30  to  GO  grains  a day  ; but  Sezary  and  Aune  alleged  that 
daily  doses  of  30  to  120  grains  a day  controlled  the  disorder  (Therap).  Gaz.,  xiii.  41). 
The  treatment  can  only  be  palliative  when  the  diarrhoea  depends  upon  tubercular  ulcers. 
Lactic  acid  in  a 20-40  per  cent,  solution  has  been  used  with  advantage  to  correct  the 
fetor  and  promote  the  cure  of  suppurative  otitis  ( Centralbl . f.  Ther.,  vii.  118),  and  in 
ulcerative  disease  of  the  nasal  fossse  (Astier,  Bull,  de  Therap.,  cxvi.  327).  Some  years 
ago  Cantani  suggested  that,  in  addition  to  the  use  of  an  exclusively  animal  diet  in 
diabetes , an  agent  ought  to  be  employed  which  would  prevent  the  waste  of  the  tissues  by 
furnishing  an  appropriate  substance  in  their  stead.  For  this  end  he  proposed  lactic  acid, 
which  he  believed  would  supply  the  very  product  which  the  deranged  liver  was  no  longer 
capable  of  furnishing.  Whatever  may  be  thought  of  the  theory,  it  appears  certain  that, 
in  the  hands  of  the  physician  named,  and  in  those  of  Dr.  Balfour  and  Dr.  Foster,  several 
cases  of  diabetes  treated  by  this  medicine  were  improved  by  it  more  than  by  any  other 
means  whatever,  the  secretion  of  urine  falling  to  the  normal  standard,  while  it  became 
free  from  sugar  and  the  patients  regained  their  flesh  and  strength.  From  (4m.  8-16  (2- 
4 drachms),  diluted  in  (4m.  250-320  (8-10  ounces)  of  water,  were  taken  during  the 
day.  The  remarkable  solubility  of  false  membranes  in  lactic  acid  led  to  its  use  in 
diphtheria  and  in  croup  (pseudo-membranous  laryngitis);  and  the  reports  of  several 
observers  appear  to  prove  that  when  the  acid  is  applied  with  a mop  in  the  former,  and 
by  atomization  or  the  syringe  in  the  latter  disease,  it  may  contribute  to  the  cure.  For 
the  purpose  last  described  a solution  was  used  of  1 part  of  the  acid  in  20  parts  of  water. 

In  1885,  Mosetig-Moorhof  ( Centralbl . f.  Therap.,  iii.  216)  used  concentrated  lactic 
acid  as  a caustic  in  cases  of  fungous  caries , lupus,  and  epithelioma , and  claimed  that  while 
it  destroyed  the  morbid  growth,  it  did  not  attack  the  healthy  tissues.  He  applied  it  on 
linen  cloth  or  on  absorbent  cotton,  covered  with  impermeable  tissue  and  a bandage,  after 
protecting  the  surrounding  skin  with  adhesive  plaster.  When  the  caustic  was  removed 
at  the  end  of  twelve  hours,  the  part  was  cleansed,  and  water  dressings  were  applied 
during  from  twelve  to  twenty-four  hours.  The  acid  was  then  applied  anew,  and  the 
process  repeated  as  often  as  necessary.  The  pain  of  the  application  was  said  to  last 
only  a few  hours.  Soon  afterward  Krause  (ibid.,  iii.  397)  applied  solutions  of  the  acid, 
varying  in  strength  from  10  to  80  per  cent.,  to  ulcers  and  morbid  growths  within  the 
larynx,  taking  care  to  use  no  more  of  the  solution  than  was  necessary.  The  sensibility 
of  the  part  was  first  blunted  with  cocaine.  The  benefit  of  this  treatment  depends,  of 
course,  upon  the  nature  of  the  lesion.  Usually  it  is  only  temporary,  but  it  prolongs  life 
and  lessens  suffering.  These  observations  have  been  confirmed  and  carried  further  by 
Jelink  (ibid.,  iii.  529),  Bum,  and  others;  but  the  first  named  did  not  favor  the  treatment 
of  lupoid  growths  with  the  acid,  and  denied  that  it  respects  the  normal  tissue  of  the  part 
to  which  it  is  applied.  He  claimed  that  it  is  the  best  caustic  application  for  laryngeal 
and  pharyngeal  affections,  and  especially  for  tuberculous  ulcers  of  the  larynx,  securing  a 
degree  of  comfort  in  breathing  and  swallowing  which  had  before  been  unattainable.  The 


72 


ACIDUM  NITRIC  UM. 


observations  of  Rafin  agree  with  the  above  ( Practitioner , xli.  214),  as  do  those  of  Ihering 
(Bull,  de  Ther.j  cxii.  283). 

Mendel  claims  that  lactic  acid  relieves  insomnia  produced  by  nervous  excitement,  and 
especially  by  fright.  He  recommends  that  Gm.  4-8  (f^j-ij)  be  given  in  lemonade,  or 
that  much  larger  doses  be  administered  by  enema;  e.  <j.  Gm.  8—16  (f^ij—  iv).  In  such 
cases  the  acid  should  be  neutralized  by  bicarbonate  of  sodium.  The  results  of  Mara- 
gliano's  use  of  the  medicine  in  the  insane  hardly  justify  a belief  in  its  hypnotic  virtues. 

ACIDUM  NITRICUM,  77.  8.,  Br P.  G.— Nitric  Acid- 

Acidum  nitri  s.  azoticum , Spiritus  nitri  acidus. — Acide  azotique  s.  nitrique , Fr.  ; Salpeter- 
saure , G. ; Acido  nitrico.  It.,  Sp. 

Formula  HN03  = N02.0H.  Molecular  weight  62.89.  Strength  68  per  cent.  U.  S.. 
70  per  cent.  Br .,  25  per  cent.  P.  G.  Spec.  grav.  1.414  U.  S.,  1.42  Br.,  1.153  P.  G. 

Diluted  Nitric  Acid.  Strength,  10  per  cent.  U.  S.,  17.44  per  cent.  Br.  Spec.  grav. 
1.057  U.  S.,  1.101  Br. 

Origin. — Nitric  acid  occurs  chiefly  in  combination  with  the  alkalies  and  alkaline 
earths,  and  in  localities  where  vegetable  or  animal  matter  has  undergone  putrefaction. 
It  is  found  in  the  juice  of  many  plants  and  in  small  quantities  in  rain-  and  snow-water. 
A process  for  preparing  this  acid  was  first  made  public  by  Geber  in  the  eighth  century, 
and  its  composition  was  determined  by  Cavendish  (1785)  and  Davy  (1816).  F'or  medi- 
cinal and  technical  purposes  nitric  acid  is  made  by  decomposing  sodium  or  potassium 
nitrate  by  sulphuric  acid. 

Preparation. — 1.  Acidum  Nitricum.  It  is  prepared  on  the  large  scale  in  apparatus 
constructed  similar  to  that  used  in  the  manufacture  of  hydrochloric  acid.  The  sulphuric 
acid  acts  upon  potassium  nitrate,  forming  acid  potassium  sulphate,  and  liberating  the 
nitric  acid  ; thus  KN03  -f-  H.2S04  = KHS04  -f-  HN03.  The  resulting  acid  salt  does  not 
decompose  another  molecule  of  potassium  nitrate,  except  at  so  high  a temperature  that 
most  of  the  nitric  acid  then  given  off"  will  be  decomposed  into  nitrous  acid  and  oxygen. 
1 molecule  or  101  parts  of  potassium  nitrate  will  therefore  require  1 molocule  or  98  parts 
of  concentrated  sulphuric  acid.  The  same  amount  of  nitric  acid  may  be  obtained  from 
1 molecule  or  85  parts  of  sodium  nitrate  ; but,  according  to  Wittstein  (1838),  the  sul- 
phuric acid  requires  to  be  diluted  with  one-fourth  its  weight  of  water  to  prevent  the  mass 
in  the  retort  from  being  carried  over  into  the  receiver,  the  foaming  being  prevented  by 
supplying  the  acid  sodium  sulphate  with  the  necessary  water  of  crystallization.  Graham 
showed  that  the  reaction  of  acid  sodium  sulphate  upon  sodium  nitrate  occurs  at  a much  lower 
temperature  than  between  the  corresponding  potassium  salts  ; hence,  all  the  nitric  acid 
may  be  obtained  from  2 molecules  or  170  parts  of  sodium  nitrate  with  98  parts  of  sul- 
phuric acid,  the  decomposition  furnishing  sodium  sulphate  ; 2NaN03  -f  H2S04  yields 
2HN03  -f  Na2S04.  The  violent  foaming  of  the  residue  toward  the  close  of  the  operation 
is  prevented  by  the  addition  of  a little  water  or  by  the  use  of  weaker  sulphuric  acid. 
Stieren  recommends  (1865)  the  employment  of  21  pounds  of  sulphuric  acid,  specific 
gravity  1.717,  for  24  pounds  of  sodium  nitrate,  as  a charge  for  a retort  of  5 or  6 gallons 
capacity ; about  one-fourth  of  the  residue  in  the  retort  consists  of  acid  sodium  sulphate, 
the  remainder  being  neutral  sulphate. 

In  the  manufacture  of  nitric  acid  from  sodium  nitrate,  sulphuric  acid  may  be  replaced 
by  manganous  chloride,  sulphate  of  iron,  magnesium  sulphate,  and  similar  salts,  the 
metals  of  which  remain  as  oxides  in  the  retort  with  the  sodium  salt ; but  in  most  cases 
the  heat  necessary  to  effect  the  reaction  is  sufficient  to  decompose  a considerable  portion 
of  the  nitric  acid. 

As  obtained  on  the  large  scale  it  usually  contains  nitrogen  tetroxide,  N204,  which  im- 
parts to  it  a red  or  yellow  color.  This  is  removed  by  applying  to  it  a moderate  heat,  and 
after  the  red  vapors  have  escaped  the  acid  is  diluted  to  the  desired  strength. 

The  sodium  and  potassium  nitrates,  as  they  occur  in  commerce,  contain  variable  quan- 
tities of  chlorides,  from  which,  if  used  in  the  above  process,  hydrochloric  acid  is  liberated, 
and  this,  reacting  with  some  of  the  nitric  acid,  produces  chlorine,  which,  for  this  reason, 
may  contaminate  the  nitric  acid.  If  the  acid  is  desired  in  a pure  state,  the  nitrates  must 
be  previously  purified  by  repeated  recrystallization,  or  the  impure  acid  rectified  either  by 
itself  or  over  some  nitrate.  The  first  portion  of  the  distillate  contains  the  chlorine,  and 
the  receiver  is  changed  when  the  condensed  liquid  ceases  to  produce  a curdy  precipitate 
with  silver  nitrate.  Iodine,  if  present  from  the  sodium  nitrate,  will  likewise  be  found  in 
this  part  of  the  distillate.  The  distillation  is  continued  into  the  new  receiver  until  about 


ACIDIJM  NITRICUM. 


73 


one-fifth  or  one-sixth  is  left  in  the  retort,  from  which,  if  the  heat  is  continued,  nitrogen 
tetroxide  is  again  produced.  Formerly  the  chlorine  and  iodine  were  removed  from  the 
crude  acid  by  silver  nitrate ; the  acid  was  carefully  decanted  from  the  precipitate  and 
rectified.  The  process  of  direct  rectification,  as  already  described,  is  more  advantageous, 
from  one-half  to  three-fourths  being  obtainable  in  the  pure  state,  according  to  the  purity 
of  the  crude  acid  used. 

2.  Acidum  Nitricum  Fumans,  P.  G.  ; Acidum  nitroso-nitricum,  Spiritus  nitri  fumans. 
— Fuming  nitric  acid,  Nitroso-nitric  acid,  E. ; Acide  azotique  fumante,  Fr.  ; Rauchende 
Salpetersliure,  G. 

If  one-half  the  amount  of  sulphuric  acid  is  employed  as  stated  above  for  the  prepara- 
tion of  nitric  acid  from  potassium  nitrate,  and  the  heat  is  finally  increased  until  the 
reaction  between  the  acid  sulphate  and  the  remaining  potassium  nitrate  has  been  com- 
pleted, the  distillate  will  be  nitric  acid  containing  a considerable  quantity  of  nitrogen 
tetroxide,  N,04.  and  nitrous  anhydride  or  nitrogen  trioxide,  N203 ; in  the  presence  of 
water  these  two  compounds  may  decompose,  with  the  formation  of  nitric  acid  and  of 
nitrous  acid,  HN02,  and  nitrogen  dioxide,  N202.  Fuming  nitric  acid  therefore  contains, 
besides  HN03,  variable  quantities  of  lower  nitrogen  oxides. 

3.  Acidum  Nitricum  Crudum,  P.  G. — Crude  nitric  acid,  E.;  Rohe  Salpetersaure,  G. 

A clear  colorless  or  faintly  yellow  liquid,  when  heated  volatile  without  residue,  and 

containing  61  per  cent,  of  absolute  HN03.  Its  specific  gravity  is  1.38-1.40. 

4.  Acidum  Nitricum  Dilutum,  U.  S.,  Br. — Diluted  nitric  acid,  E. ; Acide  azotique 
dilue,  Fr. ; Verdiinnte  Salpetersaure,  G. 

Mix  10  Gm.  of  nitric  acid  with  58  Gin.  of  distilled  water. — U.  S.  Dilute  G fluid- 
ounces  of  nitric  acid  with  sufficient  distilled  water,  so  that  at  a temperature  of  60°  F.  it 
shall  measure  31  fluidounces,  or  dilute  2400  grains  of  nitric  acid  with  distilled  water,  so 
as  to  obtain  1 imperial  pint  of  the  mixture. — Br. 

Properties. — 1.  Nitric  Anhydride,  Nitrogen  Pentoxide. — This  was  discovered 
by  St.  Clair  Deville  (1849)  in  decomposing  pure  crystallized  silver  nitrate  by  absolutely 
dry  chlorine  gas.  It  forms  colorless  shining  prisms,  which  readily  decompose  into 
nitrogen  tetroxide  and  oxygen,  fuse  at  about  30°  C.  (86°  F.)  into  a liquid  boiling  near 
50°  C.  (122°  F.),  and  deliquesce  rapidly  when  in  contact  with  moist  air.  Its  composition 
is  N205,  molecular  weight  107.82 ; combining  with  1 molecule  of  water,  H20,  it  forms  2 
molecules  of  nitric  acid,  2HN03. 

2.  Crude  Nitric  Acid. — As  met  with  in  commerce,  it  is  either  colorless  or  of  a pale 
yellowish  color,  and  contains  the  impurities  mentioned  above,  together  with  a little  iron. 
It  is  often  called  aqua  fortis ; the  weaker  kind  is  of  about  1.21  specific  gravity,  being 
known  as  single  aqua  fortis,  and  the  stronger,  of  specific  gravity  1.37,  as  double  aqua 
fortis.  Crude  nitric  acid  is  extensively  used  in  many  chemical  processes. 

3.  Pure  Nitric  Acid. — It  is  a colorless  liquid,  wholly  volatilized  by  heat.  The  con- 
centrated acid  or  hydrogen  nitrate,  corresponding  in  composition  to  the  formula  HN03, 
has  at  0°  C.  (32°  F.)  the  specific  gravity  1.559.  When  exposed  to  the  light  or  heated 
to  near  its  boiling-point,  86°  C.  (186.8°  F.),  it  is  decomposed  partly  into  water  and  nitro- 
gen tetroxide,  so  that  its  boiling-point  is  not  constant.  Nor  is  the  boiling-point  of 
weaker  acids  constant.  Those  below  and  those  above  the  specific  gravity  1.42  boil  at  a 
constantly  rising  temperature,  until  the  acid  in  the  retort  has  been  raised  or  lowered  in 
strength  to  correspond  to  the  formula  2HN033H20,  when  its  boiling-point  will  be 
stationary  at  121°  C.  (249.8°  F.),  and  it  will  have  at  15.5°  C.  (60°  F.)  the. specific  gravity 
1.42  (Graham).  This  strength  of  nitric  acid  has  been  adopted  as  the  official  standard  in 
the  British  and  French  Pharmacopoeias.  According  to  Roscoe,  nitric  acid  containing 
between  70  and  65  per  cent,  of  hydrogen  nitrate  yields,  after  continued  boiling,  a liquid 
the  boiling-point  of  which  is  120.5°  C.  (248.9°  F.)  at  a barometer  pressure  of  735  Mm., 
and  the  specific  gravity  of  which  is  1.414  at  15.5°  C.  (60°  F.).  It  contains  68  per  cent, 
of  hydrogen  nitrate,  while  Graham’s  acid  should  contain  69.96  per  cent.  The  existence 
of  a definite  hydrate  having  a constant  boiling-point  appears,  therefore,  somewhat  doubt- 
ful. The  strength  is  determined  by  diluting  the  acid  with  four  or  five  times  its  weight 
of  water,  and  neutralizing  with  volumetric  solution  of  soda ; 6.29  Gm.  of  the  acid 
require  68  Cc.  of  the  normal  alkali  solution  ( U.  S .),  or  90  grains  of  the  former  and  1000 
grain-measures  of  the  latter  ( Br .),  indicating  respectively  68  and  70  per  cent.  HN03,  or 
58.29  and  60  per  cent.  N205.  The  acid  of  the  German  Pharmacopoeia  is  much  weaker, 
its  spec.  grav.  being  1.153. 

Nitric  acid  is  a powerful  oxidizing  agent,  converting  most  metals  into  oxides  or  nitrates 
and  decomposing  most  organic  compounds.  At  the  same  time  orange-red  vapors  are 


74 


ACIDUM  NITHICUM. 


given  off,  which  are  either  the  trioxide,  N203,  or  the  dioxide,  N02,  the  latter  being  color- 
less, but  acquiring  a deep-red  color  in  contact  with  oxygen.  Exposed  to  the  direct  or 
diffused  sunlight,  even  if  of  less  than  the  official  strength,  it  is  partly  decomposed, 
becomes  red,  and  then  contains  lower  nitrogen  oxides.  It  is  monobasic  and  combines 
with  most  of  the  basylous  radicals,  all  its  compounds  being  soluble  in  water,  with  the 
exception  of  a few  so-called  basic  nitrates,  such  as  bismuth  subnitrate. 

The  following  table,  corrected  by  Prof.  Lunge,  shows  the  specific  gravity  of  nitric 
acid  as  compared  with  water  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  and  also  the  percentage  by  weight  of 
absolute  HN03  and  N205. 


Specific 
Gravity 
15°  C. 

100  parts  contain 
— parts  of 

Specific 
Gravity 
15°  C. 
at15°  C. 
in  air. 

100  parts  contain 
— pans  of 

Specific 
Gravity 
15°  C. 
at  15°  C. 
in  air. 

100  parts  contain 
— parts  of 

at  15o  c 
in  air. 

n2ob. 

hno3. 

n2o5. 

hno3. 

n2o5. 

HNOs. 

1.0001 

0.08 

0.10 

1.206 

28.36 

33.09 

1.402 

55.97 

65.30 

1.0059 

0.85 

1.00 

1.211 

28.99 

33.82 

1.407 

56.92 

66.40 

1.0109 

1.62 

1.90 

1.216 

29.6  1 

34.55 

1.412 

57.86 

67.50 

1.0159 

2.39 

2.80 

1.219 

30. 

35. 

1.414 

68. 

1.021 

3.17 

3.70 

1.221 

30.24 

35.28 

1.417 

58.83 

68.63 

1.026 

3.94 

4.60 

1.226 

30.88 

36.03 

1.4228 

59.83 

69.80 

1.028 

5. 

1.231 

31.53 

36.78 

1.422 

60. 

70. 

1.031 

4.71 

5.50 

1.236 

32.17 

37.53 

1.427 

60.84 

70.98 

1.033 

5. 

1.241 

32.82 

38.29 

1.432 

61.86 

72.17 

1.036 

5.47 

6.38 

1.246 

33.47 

39.05 

1.437 

62.91 

73.39 

1.041 

6.22 

7.26 

1.251 

34.13 

39.82 

1.442 

64.01 

74.68 

1.046 

6.97 

8.13 

1.252 

40. 

1.443 

75. 

1.051 

7.71 

8.99 

1.256 

34.78 

40.58 

1.446 

65. 

1.056 

8.43 

9.84 

1.258 

35. 

1.447 

65.13 

75.98 

1.057 

10. 

1.261 

35.44 

41.34 

1.452 

66.24 

77.28 

1.061 

9.15 

10.68 

j 1.266 

36.09 

42.10 

1.457 

67.38 

78.60 

1.066 

9.87 

11.51 

1.271 

36.75 

42.87 

1.462 

68.56 

79.98 

1.067 

10. 

1.276 

37.41 

43.64 

1.4655 

80. 

1.071 

10.57 

12.33 

1.281 

38.07 

44.41 

1.467 

69.79 

81.42 

1.076 

11.27 

13.15 

1.285 

45. 

1.472 

71.06 

82.90 

1.081 

11.96 

13.95 

1.286 

38.73 

45.18 

1.477 

72.39 

84.45 

1.086 

12.64 

14.74 

1.291 

39.39 

45.95 

1.479 

85. 

1.088 

15. 

1.2957 

40. 

1.482 

73.76 

86.05 

1.091 

13.31 

15.53 

1.296 

40.05 

46.72 

1.487 

75.18 

87.70 

1.096 

13.99 

16.32 

1.301 

40.71 

47.49 

1.492 

76.80 

89.60 

1.101 

14.67 

17.11 

1.306 

41.37 

48.26 

1.493 

90. 

1.103 

15. 

1.311 

42.06 

49.07 

1.497 

78.52 

91.60 

1.106 

15.34 

17.89 

1.316 

42.76 

49.89 

1.5005 

80. 

1.111 

16.00 

18.69 

1.317 

50. 

1.502 

80.65 

94.09 

1.116 

16.67 

19.45 

1.3215 

43.47 

50.71 

1.503 

81.09 

94.60 

1.1195 

20. 

1.327 

44.67 

51.53 

1.5038 

95. 

1.121 

17.34 

20.23 

1.332 

44.89 

52.37 

1.504 

81.50 

95.08 

1.126 

18.00 

21.00 

1.333 

45. 

1.505 

81.91 

95.55 

1.131 

18.66 

21.77 

1.337 

45.62 

53.22 

1.506 

82.29 

96.00 

1.136 

19.32 

22.54 

1.342 

46.35 

54.07 

1.507 

82.63 

96.39 

1.141  | 

19.98 

23.31 

1.347 

47.08 

54.93 

1.508 

82.94 

96.76 

1.1412 

20. 

1.3474 

55. 

1.509 

83.26 

97.13 

1.146 

20.64 

24.08 

1.352 

47.82 

55.79 

1.510 

83.58 

97.50 

1.151 

21.29 

24.84 

1.357 

48.57 

56.66 

1.511 

83.87 

97.84 

1.152 

25. 

1.362 

49.35 

57.57 

1.512 

84.09 

98.10 

1.156 

21.94 

25.60 

1.366 

50. 

1.513 

84.21 

98.32 

1.161 

22.60 

26.36 

1.367 

50.13 

58.48 

1.514 

84.46 

98.53 

1.166 

23.25 

27.12 

1.372 

50.91 

59.39 

1.515 

84.63 

98.73 

1.171 

23.90 

27.88 

1.375 

60. 

1.516 

84.78 

98.90 

1.176 

1.180 

25.54 

25. 

28.63 

1.377 

1.382 

51.69 

52.52 

60.30 

61.27 

1.517 

1.5177 

84.92 

85. 

99.07 

1.181 

25.18 

29.38 

1.387 

53.35 

62.24 

1.518 

85.04 

99.21 

1.185 

30- 

1.392 

54.20 

63.23 

1.519 

85.15 

99.34 

1.186 

25  83 

30.13 

1.3996 

55. 

1.520 

85.26 

99.46 

1.191 

26.47 

30.88 

1.397 

55.07 

64.25 

1.521 

85.35 

99.57 

1.196 

1.201 

27.10 

27.74 

31.62 

32.36 

1.401 

65. 

1.522  j 

85.44 

99.67 

The  density  of  pure  nitric  acid  varies  with  its  strength.  In  taking  its  specific  gravity 


ACIDUM  NITRIC UM. 


75 


the  absence  of  notable  quantities  of  nitrogen  tetroxide  should  be  ascertained,  since  they 
increase  the  density. 

4.  Fuming  Nitric  Acid  has  a brown-red  color,  and  when  in  contact  with  the  air  emits 
vapors  of  the  same  color,  which  are  of  a suffocating  odor.  It  requires  to  be  kept  in  a 
cool  place,  and  caution  should  be  exercised  in  removing  the  stopper,  lest  a portion  of  the 
liquid  should  be  violently  ejected  with  the  escaping  vapors.  The  German  Pharmacopoeia 
requires  for  this  preparation  a specific  gravity  of  from  1.45  to  1.50.  The  so-called 
nitrous  acid  of  our  commerce  is  a similar  but  weaker  article,  consisting  of  nitric  acid, 
which  is  colored  red  by  variable  quantities  of  nitrogen  tetroxide.  If  nitrogen  trioxide, 
N203,  is  conducted  into  nitric  acid,  a corresponding  quantity  of  nitrogen  tetroxide,  N.204, 
is  formed  ; thus  : N203  -J-  2HN03  — 2N204  -f-  II.20.  This  compound  is  colorless  at — 10° 
C.  (14°  F.),  orange-red  at  10°  C.  (50°  F.),  and  darker  red  above  this  temperature. 

5.  Diluted  Nitric  Acid  is  colorless,  has  the  specific  gravity  1.057,  and  12.6  Gm.  of  it 
are  neutralized  by  20  Cc.  of  the  volumetric  solution  of  soda,  corresponding  to  8.57  per 
cent.  N.205  or  10  per  cent.  HN03,  U.  S.  That  of  the  British  Pharmacopoeia  has  the 
specific  gravity  1.101,  and  361.3  grains  of  it  (6  fluidrachms)  require  for  neutralization 
1000  grain-measures  of  the  volumetric  solution  of  soda,  corresponding  to  14.95  per  cent. 
N.205  or  17.44  per  cent.  HN03. 

Impurities. — Such  as  are  likely  to  be  present  have  been  mentioned  above.  Mineral 
impurities  are  left  behind  as  a fixed  residue  on  evaporation,  and  may  then  be  recognized 
by  appropriate  tests.  Iodine  is  detected  by  agitating  the  acid  with  chloroform,  which  will 
acquire  a reddish  color  and  impart  to  starch  a blue  color.  If  the  color  appears  only  after 
the  careful  addition  of  hydrogen  sulphide,  iodic  acid  has  been  present ; with  an  excess 
of  hydrogen  sulphide  the  iodic  acid  would  be  converted  into  colorless  hydriodic  acid, 
2HI03  -f-  6H2S  = 6H.20  -f  2HI  -f-  3S2.  Diluted  with  5 volumes  of  distilled  water,  nitric 
acid  should  not  produce  any  precipitate  with  silver  nitrate  (chlorine  or  hydrochloric 
acid),  barium  nitrate  (sulphuric  acid),  or  hydrogen  sulphide,  either  before  or  after 
neutralization  with  ammonia  (metals).  The  diluted  acid  should  not  be  colored  blood-red 
by  potassium  sulphocyanate  (iron)  or  blue  by  starch-paste  (iodine.)  Traces  of  arsenic 
are  best  detected  by  Fleitmann’s  test  (see  page  27),  and  the  lower  nitrogen  oxides  by 
the  decoloration  of  solution  of  potassium  permanganate  or  the  liberation  of  iodine  from 
solution  of  potassium  iodide.  As  stated  above,  such  lower  oxides  are  formed  on  exposure 
to  sunlight. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Nitric  acid  is  largely  used  for  dissolving  metals  (bismuth, 
iron,  mercury,  and  silver),  for  the  oxidation  of  ferrous  to  ferric  compounds  and  of  phos- 
phorous to  phosphoric  acid,  and  in  the  preparation  of  nitrous  ether  and  amyl  nitrite. 

Action  and  Uses. — Several  cases  have  been  reported  of  death  from  inhaling  the 
fumes  of  nitric  acid.  In  1854  ( Lancet , Apr.  1854,  p.  429)  a chemist  lost  his  life  from 
inspiring  the  fumes  of  this  acid  mixed  with  those  of  sulphuric  acid.  The  chief  symptom 
was  dyspnoea,  and  the  lesions  were  congestion  and  haemorrhage  of  the  bronchia.  In  1884 
the  poisoning  of  four  persons  by  the  fumes  of  nitric  acid  was  reported  (. Boston  Med. 
Jour.,  May,  1884,  p.  496).  The  symptoms  were  shallow  breathing  and  dyspnoea,  pallor, 
cough,  rapid  pulse,  absence  of  rales,  except  in  the  one  fatal  case  and  near  its  close.  The 
lungs  were  engorged  and  the  bronchi  congested  ; the  blood  in  the  heart  dark  and  firmly 
clotted.  In  a third  case  three  men  died  who  had  been  exposed  to  the  acid  fumes  in  the 
hold  of  a ship  ( Med . Record,  xxx.  185 ; for  later  cases  see  Zeitsch.  f klin.  Med.,  xiv. 
502).  If  medicinal  doses  are  long  continued,  unless  precautions  are  taken  the  acid 
impairs  and  may  destroy  the  enamel  of  the  teeth.  It  increases  the  appetite  and  aug- 
ments the  secretion  of  urine.  A white  coating  generally  covers  the  tongue ; the  mouth 
at  first  grows  dry,  but  later  the  salivary  secretion  may  become  profuse,  while  the  gums 
grow  spongy  and  bleed,  and  the  teeth  ache  and  are  loosened.  If  continued,  it  occasions 
dyspepsia,  colic,  foul  breath,  headache,  feverishness,  debility,  and  derangement  of  the 
bowels.  These  symptoms  are  said  to  be  occasioned  by  nitric-acid  baths  as  well  as  by  the 
internal  use  of  the  acid.  They  rapidly  subside  when  the  medicine  is  suspended. 

Formerly  used  as  a disinfectant , it  was  abandoned  on  account  of  the  irritating  quality 
of  its  fumes  and  of  the  introduction  of  chlorine  and  various  other  more  efficient  and  less 
annoying  agents.  It  was  given  internally  in  typhus  and  other  low  types  of  fever  with 
presumed,  but  by  no  means  demonstrated,  advantage.  In  periodical,  and  especially 
intermittent , fevers,  it  has  been  proved  to  be  one  of  the  most  efficient  substitutes  for 
cinchona,  and  indeed  to  cure  many  cases  in  which  quinine  was  inoperative.  From  6 to  8 
drops  of  the  acid,  properly  diluted,  should  be  given  every  six  hours  without  regard  to 
remissions  or  exacerbations.  It  was  formerly  used  in  the  treatment  of  dysentery  and 


76 


ACIDUM  NITROHYDROCHLORICTJM. 


other  bowel  affections  on  the  recommendation  of  Hope,  who  employed  nitrous  acid 

xxx  and  laudanum  npxx,  in  camphor- water  f^iv,  of  which  mixture  a tablespoonful 
was  given  every  two  hours.  At  one  time  it  enjoyed  a certain  reputation  in  whoopiny  cough , 
for  which  very  large  doses  were  administered.  As  far  as  it  did  good,  the  effect  was 
probably  due  to  the  stimulant  and  substitutive  action  of  the  acid  upon  the  fauces.  By 
the  same  agency  it  doubtless  palliates  the  cough  of  bronchitis  and  hoarseness  due  to  over- 
exertion of  the  voice ; it  also  promotes  the  cure  of  syphilitic  and  other  ulcers  of  the 
throat.  When  used  long  enough  to  excite  ptyalism  it  is  reputed  to  have  cured  constitu- 
tional syphilis.  In  the  last-named  disease  it  has  been  seldom  prescribed  since  the  intro- 
duction of  iodide  of  potassium.  It  would  seem  to  allay  the  thirst  of  diabetes , and  the 
daily  administration  of  Gm.  4-16  (from  1 to  3 or  4 drachms)  of  the  acid  in  a quart  of 
water  has  certainly  cured  several  cases  of  diabetes  insipidus  (Kennedy).  This  treatment 
should  be  persevered  in  until  the  affection  of  the  mouth  produced  by  the  medicine,  and 
above  described,  is  distinctly  developed.  In  chronic  enlargement  of  the  liver  in  scorbutic, 
strumous,  and  syphilitic  subjects,  as  well  as  in  jaundice  depending  upon  hepatic  conges- 
tion, and  in  scrofula  of  the  lymphatic  glands,  it  appears  to  have  been  often  efficacious. 
In  chronic  impetigo  it  has  sometimes  proved  successful  when  other  medicines  were 
ineffectual.  Externally,  nitric  acid  has  been  much  employed  as  a caustic  for  the  bites  of 
rabid  animals,  poisonous  serpents  and  insects , etc.  As  already  intimated,  it  forms  an  excel- 
lent ingredient  of  gargles  for  the  treatment  of  syphilitic  and  other  obstinate  ulcers  of  the 
throat,  as  well  as  for  sloughing  sores  in  the  mouth.  It  is  an  efficient  application  to 
ulcerated  gums  produced  by  mercury.  In  both  of  the  last-mentioned  cases  it  has  been 
superseded  by  chlorate  of  potassium.  Commercial  nitric  acid  has  been  applied  (T.  G. 
Thomas)  to  ulcers  of  the  rectum  in  chronic  dysentery.  The  patient  should  first  be  ether- 
ized, the  bowel  exposed  by  means  of  a duck-bill  speculum,  and  commercial  nitric  acid 
lightly  applied  by  means  of  a small  piece  of  wet  cotton  wrapped  around  the'  end  of  a 
whalebone  rod.  This  method  was  used  in  imitation  of  a similar  application  of  nitrate 
of  silver.  Lotions  or  foot-baths  containing  nitric  acid  are  useful  in  the  treatment  of 
chilblains , and  a mixture  of  equal  parts  of  dilute  nitric  acid  and  peppermint-water  has 
been  similarly  employed.  General  baths  feebly  acidulated  with  nitric  acid  have  been 
recommended  for  infantile  jaundice.  It  is  a very  useful  application  to  periostoses  when 
used  so  as  to  maintain  a slight  irritation  of  the  skin ; and  as  a caustic  it  is  often  resorted 
to  for  the  destruction  of  warts , venereal  and  non-specific,  and  of  condylomata  and  haemor- 
rhoids. For  these  purposes  its  action  should  be  limited  to  the  diseased  structure  by 
means  of  cerate ; or  lint  saturated  with  concentrated  nitric  acid,  and  adapted  to  the  part 
in  shape  and  size,  may  be  allowed  to  remain  in  contact  with  it  for  a sufficient  time.  The 
tissue  may  have  its  sensibility  blunted  by  carbolic  acid,  by  rhigolene,  cocaine,  or  other 
anaesthetic,  or  by  cold;  or  the  patient  may  be  etherized  during  the  operation.  In  caries 
of  the  bones  and  sloughing  of  the  soft  parts  it  may  be  used  to  hasten  the  separation  of 
the  diseased  tissue.  Nitric  acid  is  the  most  usual  test  for  albumen  in  the  urine.  If  it 
is  added  drop  by  drop  to  the  urine  in  a test-tube,  the  coagulated  albumen  will  cloud  the 
liquid.  Or  if  the  acid  be  first  placed  in  the  tube,  and  the  albuminous  urine  dropped  or 
gently  poured  upon  its  surface,  a zone  of  coagulated  albumen  will  appear  at  the  line  of 
junction.  The  dose  of  the  stronger  acid  is  Gm.  0.30-1.30  (npx-xx),  and  of  the  diluted 
acid  Gm.  1.60-3.30  (npxxv-1)  three  or  four  times  a day,  largely  diluted.  It  should  always 
be  taken  through  a glass  tube,  and  immediately  afterward  the  mouth  should  be  washed 
with  a solution  of  bicarbonate  of  sodium. 

ACIDUM  NITROHYDROCHLORICUM,  77.  S.~ Nitrohydrochloric 

Acid. 

Acidum  chloro-nitrosum , Acidum  nitromuriaticum , Aqua  regia , Aqua  regis. — Nitro- 
muriatic  acid , E. ; Acide  chloro-azotique  s.  chloro-nitreux , Eau  regale , Fr. ; Salpetersalz- 
sdure , Konigswasser , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Nitric  Acid  180  Cc. ; Hydrochloric  Acid  820  Cc.  Mix 
the  acids  in  an  open  glass  vessel,  and  wThen  effervescence  has  ceased  pour  the  product 
into  glass-stoppered  bottles,  which  should  not  be  more  than  half  filled,  and  keep  them  in 
a cool,  dark  place — U.  S.  (If  4|  fluidrachms  of  nitric  acid  and  20 i fluidrachms  of  hydro- 
chloric acid  be  mixed,  the  official  proportions  will  remain  undisturbed.) 

The  French  Codex  directs  1 part  of  nitric  acid,  spec.  grav.  1.32,  and  3 parts  of  hydro- 
chloric acid  spec.  grav.  1.17. 

This  preparation  should  never  be  made  extemporaneously,  as  time  must  be  allowed  for 


ACIDUM  NITROHYDRO CH LOR IC UM  DILUTUM. 


77 

complete  reaction,  which  is  ascertained  by  cessation  of  effervescence  ; moreover,  the  vessel 
containing  the  acids  should  be  kept  in  a cool  place  in  the  open  air,  as  the  fumes  arising 
from  the  mixture  are  extremely  annoying.  As  soon  as  reaction  has  ceased,  the  liquid 
should  be  poured  into  bottles  as  directed,  and  kept  in  a cool,  dark  place,  so  that  the 
chlorine  and  nitrosyl  chloride  may  remain  as  such. 

The  acid  must  always  be  dispensed  in  dark  glass-stoppered  vials,  and  the  patient  should 
be  cautioned  against  exposing  the  vial  to  light  and  heat,  so  as  to  avoid  accidents. 

ACIDUM  NITROHYDROCHLORICUM  DILUTUM,  U.  S.,  Bv.— 

Diluted  Nitrohydrochloric  Acid. 

Acid  am  nitromuriaticum  dilutum. — Diluted  nitromuriatic  acid , E. ; Acide  chlorazotique 
dilue , Fr.  ; Yerdiinnte  Salpetersalzsciw'e,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Nitric  Acid  40  Cc.  ; Hydrochloric  Acid  180  Cc. ; Dis- 
tilled Water  780  Ccm.  Mix  the  acids  in  a capacious  open  glass  vessel,  and  when  effer- 
vescence has  ceased  add  the  distilled  water.  Keep  the  product  in  glass-stoppered  bottles 
in  a cool  place. — U.  S. 

By  mixing  2 fluidrachms  of  nitric  acid  with  9 fluidrachms  of  hydrochloric  acid,  and 
finally  adding  39  fluidrachms  of  distilled  water,  the  official  strength  will  be  preserved. 

It  is  imperative  that  the  reaction  between  the  strong  acids  be  completed  before  the 
water  is  added,  even  though  the  theory  has  been  advanced  by  some  that  the  new  com- 
pounds formed  are  restored  to  the  original  condition  of  the  acids  by  water. 

The  Br.  Pharm.  merely  directs  that  3 fluidounces  of  nitric  acid  and  4 fluidounces  of 
hydrochloric  acid  be  added  to  25  fluidounces  of  distilled  water,  the  mixture  to  be  kept  in 
a glass-stoppered  bottle  for  fourteen  days  before  it  is  used.  The  dilute  acid  must  have  a 
specific  gravity  of  1.07,  and  352  grains  of  it  (6  fluidrachms)  require  for  neutralization  about 
833  grain-measures  of  volumetric  solution  of  soda. 

On  mixing  nitric  with  hydrochloric  acid  a decomposition  takes  place,  resulting  in  the 
liberation  of  chlorine  and  the  formation  of  water  and  chlorinated  nitrogen  oxides.  This 
preparation  has  received  the  name  of  aqua  reyia  from  its  property  of  dissolving  gold,  the 
king  of  metals,  which  is  due  to  the  presence  of  free  chlorine  ; for  the  same  reason  are 
dissolved  platinum,  calomel,  and  all  other  metals  and  compounds  which  yield  soluble 
chlorides.  Its  activity  therefore  depends  upon  the  amount  of  free  chlorine  contained 
in  it.  The  British  Pharmacopoeia  employs  the  two  acids  very  nearly  in  equal  propor- 
tions by  weight,  while  the  proportion  directed  by  the  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia  is  1 of  nitric  to 
3.68  of  hydrochloric  acid.  The  chlorinated  compounds  formed  in  the  two  processes  must 
therefore  differ  to  some  extent ; in  the  latter  case  the  reaction  may  take  place  as  follows : 
HX03  -f-  3HC1  = Cl2  -f-  NOC1  (nitrosyl  chloride)  -(-  2H20,  or  according  to  this  equation  : 
2IIXO3  -J-  6HC1  = Cl2  + 2N0C12  (chloro-hyponitric  acid)  -f-  4H,0.  A third  compound, 
chloronitric  acid  or  nitrylic  chloride , X02C1,  is  likewise  formed,  particularly  if  a larger 
proportion  of  hydrochloric  acid  be  used;  it  is  a yellow  liquid,  boiling  at  5°  C.  (41°  F.), 
and  decomposed  by  water  into  nitric  and  hydrochloric  acids.  Chloronitrous  acid  or 
nitrosyl  chloride  is  a yellowish-red  liquid  which  boils  at — 5°  C.  (23°  F.),  and  with  water 
yields  hydrochloric  and  nitrous  acids.  Gay-Lussac,  its  discoverer,  described  the  chloro- 
hyponitric  acid  as  boiling  at  — 7°  C.  (19.4°  F.),  forming  a lemon-yellow  gas,  and  with 
water  decomposing  into  hyponitric  and  hydrochloric  acids.  According  to  the  older  views, 
nitromuriatic  acid  is  essentially  a mixture  of  chlorine  and  nitrogen  tetroxide,  X,04,  the 
reaction  being  explained  as  follows:  2HC1  -f-  2HN03  = Cl2 -f-  N204  -J- 2H20. 

As  the  stability  of  these  compounds  is  influenced  by  temperature  and  by  water,  it  is 
obvious  that  the  composition  of  nitromuriatic  acid  must  vary  with  the  proportion  and  the 
strength  of  the  acids  employed,  and  with  the  temperature  at  which  they  have  been  mixed  ; 
at  a low  temperature  this  mixture  may  be  kept  without  evolution  of  gas,  but  at  ordinary 
or  a somewhat  elevated  temperature  a variable  mixture  of  gas  is  given  off ; hence  the 
necessity  of  not  dispensing  this  preparation  until  after  effervescence  has  ceased,  and  of 
keeping  it  in  vials  not  quite  filled. 

Properties. — Nitrohydrochloric  acid  is  a liquid  having  a deep  golden-yellow  color 
and  the  odor  of  chlorine.  It  readily  dissolves  gold-leaf,  liberates  iodine  and  bromine  from 
their  salts,  and  is  wholly  volatilized  by  heat.  It  should  be  kept  in  a cool  and  dark  place, 
and  dispensed  in  dark-  or  yellow-colored  bottles.  It  should  not  be  kept  on  hand  for  a 
long  time. 

In  the  diluted  nitrohydrochloric  acid  the  nitrosyl  chloride  has  probably  been  decom- 
posed by  the  water  into  hydrochloric  acid  and  nitrogen  trioxide,  thus:  2NOC1  -f-  11,0  = 


78 


ACIDUM  OLEICUM. 


2HC1  -f-  N203.  On  account  of  the  free  chlorine  contained  in  it,  it  should  likewise  be  kept 
in  a cool  place  and  protected  from  the  light. 

Action  and  Uses. — Like  its  constituent  acids,  nitrohydrocliloric  acid  acts  as  a 
powerful  corrosive  poison  when  taken  pure  and  in  large  quantities.  In  smaller  doses  it 
is  very  apt  to  disagree  with  the  stomach,  and  it  readily  attacks  the  enamel  of  the  teeth. 
When  mixed  with  the  water  of  a warm  bath,  so  as  slightly  to  acidulate  it,  it  is  absorbed 
by  the  skin,  greatly  increasing  the  acidity  of  the  urine,  and  after  several  repetitions  of 
the  bath  exciting  a burning  sensation  in  the  mouth  and  throat,  a considerable  flow  of 
saliva,  superficial  ulcers  of  the  mouth,  and  redness  and  swelling  of  the  gums.  The 
bowels  are  more  frequently  moved,  and  there  is  sometimes  an  increased  tendency  to  urina- 
tion. The  secretion  of  bile  is  said  also  to  be  augmented.  From  an  experiment  upon  a 
dog  performed  by  Rutherford  he  concluded  that  dilute  nitromuriatic  acid  is  “ a hepatic 
stimulant  of  considerable  power.” 

Diluted  nitrohydrochloric  acid  has  been  employed  for  many  of  the  same  purposes  as 
nitric  acid,  such  as  diseases  of  the  liver,  scrofula,  syphilis,  cutaneous  affections,  and  chronic 
rheumatism , but  there  does  not  appear  to  be  any  sufficient  ground  for  preferring  it  to  the 
simpler  nitric  or  muriatic  acid,  at  least  as  an  internal  medicine.  As  orginally  used,  it 
was  applied  in  the  form  of  a general  warm  bath  which  contained  no  less  than  32  fluid- 
ounces  of  the  acid.  A foot-  and  a sponging-bath  of  like  strength  were  also  employed, 
and  several  folds  of  flannel  immersed  in  the  liquid  of  the  bath  were  wrapped  around  the 
body.  The  use  of  this  regimen  for  at  least  two  months  was  recommended.  At  the  present 
time  the  literal  application  of  nitrohydrochloric  baths  is  seldom  resorted  to,  but  there  is 
good  reason  to  believe  that  in  a much  less  energetic  form  they  are  sometimes  of  marked 
utility.  Foot-baths  and  lotions,  as  well  as  cloths  wet  with  the  acidulated  water  applied 
over  the  hepatic  region,  we  have  several  times  employed  with  decided  advantage  in  cases 
of  slight  jaundice  accompanied  with  dyspepsia , hepatic  tenderness  and  fulness,  and  hypo- 
chondriasis in  persons  who  used  alcohol  to  excess.  The  utility  of  this  acid  and  of  its 
individual  components  in  these  disorders,  and  in  many  cases  of  well-defined  insane 
melancholia,  probably  depends  upon  its  power  to  render  the  blood  thinner  and  purer  and 
the  secretions  more  abundant. 

The  risk  of  its  injuring  the  teeth  should  render  physicians  very  circumspect  in  the 
internal  use  of  this  acid  ; and  fortunately  there  are  no  conditions  in  which  it  is  appro- 
priate that  cannot  as  well  be  treated  by  safer  medicines.  The  dose  of  the  stronger  acid  is 
6m.  0.20-0.25  (gtt.  iij-iv),  and  of  the  diluted  acid  from  Gm.  0.60-1.30  (gtt.  x-xx), 
largely  diluted  and  imbibed  through  a glass  tube.  The  antidotes  are  the  same  as  those 
employed  for  its  component  acids. 

ACIDUM  OLEICUM,  U.  &.,  Br.— Oleic  Acid. 

Acidum  oleinicum  s.  elainicum. — Elaic  acid,  E.  ; Acide  oleique , Fr.  ; Oelsdure,  G. 

Formula  HCi8H3302  = C17H33.COOH.  Molecular  weight  281.38. 

Origin  and  Preparation. — Oleic  acid  exists  as  triolein  in  most  of  the  solid  and 
non-drying  liquid  fats.  It  was  isolated  by  Chevreul  (1811),  and  by  Gottlieb  (1846) 
obtained  in  the  chemically  pure  state. 

Large  quantities  of  oleic  acid  are  obtained  in  the  manufacture  of  stearic  acid  for 
candles.  (See  Olea  Pinguia.)  This  acid  is  usually  of  a brownish-yellow  or  red-brown 
color,  and  not  entirely  transparent  at  a temperature  of  12°  or  15°  C.  (53°  or  59°  F.), 
in  consequence  of  the  presence  of  solid  fatty  acids,  which,  according  to  Ch.  Rice  (1873), 
may  be  mostly  removed  by  cooling  to  4.5°  C.  (40°  F.)  and  subjecting  the  soft  mass  to 
pressure ; or  the  acid  may  be  mixed  with  an  equal  bulk  of  strong  alcohol,  and  the  solu- 
tion kept  at  a temperature  of  7°  or  8°  C.  (45°  F.),  when  most  of  the  solid  fatty  acids 
will  be  deposited,  and  the  oleic  acid  may  be  further  purified  by  combining  with  lead  and 
treating  as  stated  below. 

Bromeis  (1842)  obtained  oleic  acid  by  saponifying  almond  or  olive  oil  with  potassa, 
decomposing  the  soap  with  hydrochloric  acid,  combining  the  fatty  acids  with  lead  by 
digesting  with  lead  oxide,  dissolving  the  lead  oleate  in  ether,  and  agitating  the  ethereal 
solution  with  hydrochloric  acid.  This  process  has  been  improved  by  Dr.  L.  Wolff 
(1877,  1879),  by  saponifying  almond  oil  directly  with  lead  oxide,  and  substituting 
petroleum  benzin  for  ether,  which  dissolves  the  lead  oleate  equally  well.  After  decom- 
posing this  solution  with  dilute  hydrochloric  acid  the  benzin  is  evaporated  and  the 
remaining  oleic  acid  washed  with  water. 

C.  T.  George  (1881)  recommends  dry  white  Castile  soap,  of  which  30  parts  are  dis- 


ACIDUM  OLEICUM . 


79 


solved  in  100  parts  of  hot  water;  the  solution  is  decomposed  by  slowly  adding,  with 
constant  stirring,  6 parts  of  sulphuric  acid ; the  oily  layer  is  washed  with  warm  water, 
combined  with  2 parts  of  powdered  litharge,  the  warm  lead  oleate  dissolved  in  10  parts 
of  petroleum  benzin,  and  this  solution  decomposed  by  1 part  of  hydrochloric  acid  diluted 
with  12  parts  of  water;  after  evaporating  the  benzin,  about  15  parts  of  oleic  acid  are 
left. 

To  free  oleic  acid  thus  obtained  from  the  products  of  oxidation,  Bromeis  recommends 
cooling  it  slowly  to  about  - 9.6°  C.  (20°  F.)  and  expressing  it  in  thin  layers  between 
absorbent  paper : after  repeating  this  several  times  it  is  remelted,  a little  alcohol  added, 
cooled  as  before,  and  again  expressed. 

Adulterations. — Commercial  oleic  acid  is  said  to  be  frequently  adulterated  with  linoleic  acid, 
and  it  is  possible  to  detect  even  1 per  cent,  of  the  latter  by  treating  with  potassium  permangan- 
ate, whereby  oleic  acid  is  converted  into  azaleinic  acid,  which  is  soluble  in  ether  ; whereas  lin- 
oleic acid  yields  sativic  acid,  insoluble  in  ether  ( Proc . A.  P.  A.,  1890,  pp.  634  and  637). 

Properties. — Pure  oleic  acid  is  a colorless,  inodorous,  and  tasteless  oily  liquid  of  neu- 
tral reaction,  having  at  19°  C.  the  density  .898  (Chevreul),  congealing  to  a white  crystalline 
mass  at  4°  C.  (39.2  F.),  and  crystallizing  from  alcohol  in  dazzling  white  needles  melting 
at  14°  C.  (57.2°  F.)  (Gottlieb).  The  solid  acid  is  but  little  affected  by  exposure  to  air, 
but  in  the  liquid  state  it  rapidly  absorbs  oxygen  on  exposure,  becoming  yellow  and  brown 
and  acquiring  a rancid  odor,  lower  congealing-point,  and  an  acid  reaction.  Commercial 
oleic  acid  is  somewhat  oxidized,  and  has  a yellow  or  brownish  color,  a fatty  odor,  and  a 
distinct  acid  reaction.  It  may  be  distilled  in  vacuo  without  decomposition,  but  if  distilled 
in  contact  with  air  yields  carbon  dioxide,  hydrocarbons,  and  an  oily  distillate  containing 
sebacic  acid , C10H13O4.  With  melted  potassa  it  is  decomposed  into  palmitic  and  acetic 
acids.  It  is  a solvent  for  fats  and  fatty  acids,  is  insoluble  in  water,  and  dissolves  in  all 
proportions  of  alcohol,  ether,  chloroform,  benzin,  and  other  hydrocarbons,  volatile  and 
fixed  oils.  It  unites  with  bases,  and  when  heated  slowly  decomposes  the  alkali  and 
earthy  carbonates,  forming  soaps.  Many  of  the  oleates  are  soluble  in  alcohol,  several  also 
in  ether ; the  normal  lead  oleate  is  white,  melts  at  80°  C.  (176°  F.),  and  dissolves  in  ether 
and  benzin.  Oleic  acid  left  in  contact  with  nitrous  acid  is  converted  into  the  isomeric 
elaidic  acid , which  crystallizes  in  pearly  plates  and  melts  at  44°  C.  (111.2°  F.).  When 
oxidized  by  nitric  acid,  succinic  and  several  other  acids  are  obtained. 

The  official  acid  has  a spec.  grav.  of  0.900  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  and  its  solution  in 
alcohol  has  a feebly  acid  reaction  upon  litmus-paper ; it  is  prepared  from  a good  quality 
of  commercial  acid  (usually  known  as  “ Red  Oil  ”)  by  cooling  the  latter  to  5°  C.  (41° 
F.),  and  separating  the  liquid  portion  from  palmitic  and  other  acids.  When  cooled  to 
4°  C.  (39.2°  F.),  oleic  acid  becomes  semi-solid,  and  on  further  cooling  congeals  to  a whit- 
ish solid  mass  (ZZ  Si). 

Impurities. — The  solution  of  oleic  acid  in  an  equal  weight  of  alcohol  should  at  25° 
C.  (77°  F.)  be  perfectly  transparent  and  not  separate  a layer  of  fixed  oil,  and  at  7.2°  C. 
(45°  F.)  should  not  yield  a crystalline  deposit  of  stearic  or  palmitic  acid. 

To  show  the  absence  of  notable  quantities  of  stearic  and  palmitic  acids  the  ZZ  S.  P. 
requires  oleic  acid  to  stand  the  following  test : 1 Gm.  of  the  acid  is  to  be  heated  with 
20  Cc.  of  alcohol,  and  then,  after  the  addition  of  2 drops  of  phenolphthalein  solution, 
sodium  hydroxide  solution  (1  in  4)  is  dropped  into  the  liquid  until  it  has  acquired  a per- 
manent red  tint;  acetic  acid  is  then  added  to  the  liquid  until  the  red  color  is  just  dis- 
charged, and  filtered.  10  Cc.  of  the  filtrate,  mixed  with  10  Cc.  of  ether,  should  be 
rendered  only  slightly  turbid  by  1 Cc.  of  lead-acetate  solution. 

Sulpho-oleic  acid.  When  olive  or  castor  oil  is  treated  with  sulphuric  acid  at  a 
temperature  not  above  50°  C.  (122°  F.),  sulpho-oleic  acid  of  the  composition  CnH.22CO,- 
HS03H  is  formed;  any  unchanged  oil  may  be  removed  by  ether,  and  the  crude  acid 
is  neutralized  with  alkali  hydroxides  or  carbonates,  to  be  subsequently  decomposed  with 
sulphuric  acid,  and  the  pure  acid  extracted  with  benzin,  which  yields  the  acid  in  an 
anhydrous  condition  upon  evaporation.  When  prepared  from  castor  oil,  it  is  known  as 
sulphoricinoleic  acid.  The  acid  forms  neutral  salts  with  the  alkalies,  which  are  found  in 
the  market  under  such  names  as  oleite , solvine , polt/solve , etc.;  they  are  soluble  in  water, 
and  possess  the  property  of  taking  up  large  quantities  of  substances  otherwise  immiscible 
with  water.  (For  detailed  descriptions  see  The  American  Druggist.  1884;  Pharm. 
Rundschau , 1885  ; and  Proc.  A.  P.  A.,  1889.) 

Action  and  Uses. — Oleic  acid  is  used  in  medicine  only  in  combination.  Two  of 
its  compounds  are  officinal,  but  many  others  have  been  employed,  especially  since  atten- 


80 


ACID U M OXALICUM. 


tion  was  called  to  them  by  Marshall  in  1872.  It  is  claimed  that  they  will  not  decompose 
like  ointments,  and  that  they  do  not  irritate  the  skin.  They  are  also  more  cleanly  in 
their  application,  and  are  credited  with  penetrating  the  skin  more  deeply  than  ointments. 
Marshall  claims  for  the  oleates  of  morphine  and  atropine  a powerful  action  in  allaying 
pain  and  nervous  irritation , and  for  the  oleate  of  mercury  special  advantages  in  the 
treatment  of  diseases  of  the  skin,  including  sycosis , chloasma , pediculi , syphilitic  affec- 
tions, etc.  Dr.  Shoemaker  ( Trans.  Med.  Soc.  of  Penna.,  xii.  pt.  ii.  p.  709)  confirms  these 
statements,  and  claims  that  oleate  of  atropine  has  a marked  influence  in  seborrhoea  and 
erysipelas , and  that  oleate  of  mercury  is  an  invaluable  application  to  the  scalp  in 
general  thinning  and  loss  of  hair.  Of  oleate  of  lead  he  states  that  he  has  obtained 
remarkably  good  results  from  its  use  in  ecezma , in  acne  rosacea  after  depletion  of  the 
parts,  in  burns , and  in  erythema.  Oleate  of  copper  he  found  capable  of  rapidly  curing 
ringworm  of  the  scalp  and  body  ; and  he  used  it  for  indolent  ulcerating  surfaces , as  well 
as  on  hard  and  horny  warts , corns , and  bunions.  Oleate  of  aluminium  he  used  in  check- 
ing muco-purulent  discharges  in  eczema , and  as  a dressing  in  foul  ulcers , abscesses, 
sinuses , burns , and  scalds.  Oleate  of  bismuth  he  found  efficacious  in  superficial  erysipelas 
and  sunburn , and,  applied  by  means  of  a bougie,  in  gleet , and  oleate  of  arsenic  in  lupus, 
epithelioma , warts,  and  various  similar  growths.  Oleate  of  silver,  in  the  form  of  a fine 
powder  or  in  an  ointment,  was  valuable  in  the  treatment  of  chronic  ulcers,  bed-sores, 
exuberant  granulations,  etc.  In  most  of  these  cases  the  oleate  was  associated  with  lard 
in  varying  proportions  ( Philad . Med.  Times , xii.  758).  Oleate  of  mercury  and  oleate  of 
veratrine  are  officinal. 

ACIDUM  OXALICUM,  F.,  It.— Oxalic  Acid. 

Acide  oxalique  s.  carboneux.  Fr.;  Oxalsaure,  Kleesdure,  G.;  Acido  ossalico,  It.,  Sp. 
Formula  H2C204.2H20  = (C00H)22H20.  Molecular  weight  125.7. 

Origin  and  Formation. — Oxalic  acid  occurs  in  combination  with  ammonium  in 
guano,  and  with  calcium  in  a large  number  of  plants,  among  which  may  be  mentioned 
the  following  official  drugs  : rhubarb,  curcuma,  ginger,  squill,  orris,  vale- 
rian, quassia,  etc.  It  is  found  as  acid  potassium  oxalate  in  the  leaves  and 
stalks  of  phytolacca,  belladonna,  and  several  species  of  rumex  (sorrel), 
rheum,  and  oxalis  (wood-sorrel),  taking  its  name  from  the  last-named 
genus.  Some  urinary  calculi  consist  of  calcium  oxalate,  which  is  also 
found  in  the  gall-bladder,  in  uterine  mucus,  and  in  some  urinary  sedi- 
ments, in  most  lichens,  and  in  many  vegetable  tissues.  It  is  formed  by 
the  action  of  nitric  acid  upon  many  organic  compounds,  and  sugar,  gum, 
sawdust,  and  other  organic  bodies  yield  oxalates  when  gradually  heated 
to  redness  with  excess  of  potassium  or  sodium  hydroxide  (Gay-Lussac, 
1829).  The  chemical  behavior  of  salt  of  sorrel  was  investigated  by 
Savary  (1773),  and  its  acids  recognized  by  Wiegleb  (1779)  as  being  dis- 
tinct from  others  then  known.  Scheele  (1776)  prepared  the  acid  from 
sugar,  and  proved  (1778)  it  to  be  identical  with  that  in  sorrel,  rhubarb, 
and  other  plants. 

Preparation. — 1 part  of  sugar,  molasses,  or  starch  is  mixed  in  a retort  with  8 parts 
of  nitric  acid,  spec.  grav.  1.38;  a gradually  increased  heat  is  applied  until  the  liquid 
finally  boils,  and  red  nitrogen  tetroxide  vapors  cease  to  be  given  off ; it  is  then  concentra- 
ted by  evaporation  to  one-sixth  of  its  volume  and  set  aside  to  crystallize.  The  crystals 
are  drained  from  the  mother-liquor  and  recrystallized  from  hot  water.  This  is  the  process 
of  Scheele  and  Bergman  (1776),  modified  in  the  strength  of  nitric  acid  by  Schlesinger 
(1841).  L.  Thompson  (1848)  recommended  the  use  of  a weaker  nitric  acid,  of  1.245 
density,  in  order  to  avoid  the  generation  of  formic  acid  by  the  decomposition  of  oxalic 
acid.  Schlesinger  obtained  from  100  parts  of  sugar  58  to  60  parts  of  handsomely  crys- 
tallized oxalic  acid ; Thompson,  from  the  same  quantity  of  sugar,  63  parts  of  acid,  and, 
by  utilizing  the  mother-liquor  in  each  subsequent  charge  of  the  retort,  from  107  to  115 
parts  of  oxalic  acid.  If  the  nitric  acid  employed  is  insufficient  in  quantity,  a correspond- 
ing amount  of  the  sugar  will  be  converted  into  saccharic  acid , C6H10O8. 

E.  Stieren  (1865)  used  the  dark  mother-liquors  obtained  in  the  preparation  of  tartaric 
acid  as  a source  for  oxalic  acid.  They  are  advantageously  worked  up  for  this  purpose 
by  adding  to  20  parts  thereof,  previously  warmed,  2 parts  of  nitric  acid,  spec.  grav.  1.33. 
After  the  extrication  of  the  nitrogen  tetroxide  vapors  more  nitric  acid  is  gradually  added 


ACIDUM  OXALIC UM. 


81 


until  red  vapors  are  no  longer  given  off.  The  liquor  is  suitably  concentrated  and  crys- 
tallized, and  the  crystals  are  purified  by  recrystallization. 

Most  of  the  oxalic  acid  is  made  by  a process  based  upon  Gay-Lussac’s  observations, 
mentioned  above.  Dale  observed  that  caustic  soda  would  not  produce  it  from  sawdust 
until  it  was  mixed  with  potassa.  2 molecules  of  the  former  and  1 of  the  latter  are  dis- 
solved in  water  to  form  a solution  of  1.35  spec,  grav.,  which  is  mixed  with  sufficient  saw- 
dust to  obtain  a pasty  mass,  and  then  heated,  with  constant  stirring,  upon  iron  plates. 
After  it  has  been  kept  at  a temperature  of  204.5°  C.  (400°  F.)  for  one  or  two  hours,  the 
heat  is  extended  until  the  mass  is  quite  dry,  care  being  taken  that  no  charring  takes  place. 
The  gray  powder  contains  28  to  30  per  cent,  of  oxalic  acid  combined  with  the  alkalies ; 
it  is  washed  with  solution  of  sodium  carbonate,  by  which  the  potassium  is  removed  as 
carbonate ; the  sodium  oxalate  is  boiled  with  milk  of  lime,  whereby  caustic  soda  and 
calcium  oxalate  are  formed,  and  the  latter  is  decomposed  by  sulphuric  acid  ; the  oxalic 
acid  is  purified  by  recrystallization.  By  this  process  sawdust  yields  about  half  its  weight 
of  oxalic  acid  (Am.  Journ.  Pharm .,  1863,  p.  359).  Merz  and  Weith  (1882)  sug- 
gested the  manufacture  of  oxalic  acid  from  sodium  formate,  having  observed  that  this 
salt,  when  heated  energetically  to  over  400°  C.  (752°  F.),  (air  being  excluded  as  much 
as  possible),  would  yield  70  and  more  per  cent,  of  oxalate  ; this  yield  corresponds  to  about 
50  per  cent,  of  oxalic  acid.  Sodium  formate  is  readily  produced  by  heating  sodium 
hydroxide  with  carbonic  oxide  to  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  (NaOH  -f-  CO  = NaHC02).  323,366 
pounds  of  oxalic  acid  were  imported  into  the  United  States  in  1867,  and  over  1,000,000 
pounds  in  1880. 

For  analytical  purposes  oxalic  acid  requires  purification  by  several  recrystallizations 
from  distilled  water  ; this  acid  is  dissolved  in  hot  alcohol,  the  solution  filtered  and  allowed 
to  crystallize ; the  crystals,  containing  ethyloxalate,  are  boiled  with  water,  the  solution  on 
cooling  yielding  the  pure  acid. 

Properties. — Oxalic  acid  crystallizes  from  its  aqueous  solution  in  flat,  oblique, 
rhombic  prisms,  which  are  colorless,  transparent,  not  deliquescent,  inodorous,  of  a strongly 
acid  taste  and  reaction,  and  soluble  in  about  10  parts  of  water  at  ordinary  temperature, 
and  in  nearly  all  proportions  of  boiling  water.  Nitric  acid  increases  their  solubility  in 
cold  water.  They  dissolve  in  2?  parts  of  cold  and  1.8  parts  of  boiling  strong  alcohol,  and 
are  but  little  soluble  in  ether.  Oxalic  acid  fuses  at  98°  C.  (208.4°  F.),  and  at  about 
160°  C.  (320°  F.)  sublimes  partly  unaltered,  and  is  partly  decomposed  into  carbonic 
anhydride  and  carbon  monoxide  without  leaving  any  residue.  The  same  decomposition 
takes  place  when  oxalic  acid  is  heated  with  strong  sulphuric  acid,  but  when  dissolved  in 
the  latter  at  a moderate  heat  large  oblique  octahedra  of  anhydrous  oxalic  acid  are  grad- 
ually deposited  (Villiers,  1880).  The  commercial  acid  usually  leaves  upon  platinum-foil 
a little  charcoal,  which  is  finally  consumed,  a small  residue  of  alkali  carbonate  often 
remaining.  Heated  with  glycerin  to  a little  above  the  temperature  of  boiling  water,  it  is 
decomposed  into  carbonic  and  formic  acids.  In  chemical  affinity  it  is  one  of  the  strongest 
acids,  yielding  normal  and  acid  salts  which,  with  the  exception  of  the  normal  alkali 
oxalates,  are  mostly  insoluble  or  slightly  soluble  in  water,  but  which  dissolve  in  diluted 
nitric  acid.  Oxalic  acid  yields  with  lime-water,  and  the  soluble  oxalates  with  all  soluble 
calcium  salts,  a white  precipitate  which  is  insoluble  in  oxalic  and  acetic  acids.  The  acid 
potassium  oxalates  are  popularly  called  salt  of  sorrel , also  salt  of  lemon , and  are  employed 
for  removing  iron  stains  from  paper,  linen,  leather,  etc. ; but  at  present  oxalic  acid  is 
usually  substituted  for  this  purpose. 

The  composition  of  oxalic  acid,  dried  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  or  obtained  by  sublimation, 
is  expressed  by  the  formula  C2H204 ; crystallized  from  water,  it  is  C2H204.2H20. 

Impurities. — Mineral  impurities  are  left  behind  on  incinerating  the  oxalic  acid  upon 
platinum-foil ; organic  impurities  will  blacken  concentrated  sulphuric  acid  on  boiling. 
Sulphuric  acid,  if  present,  will  produce  with  barium  nitrate  a white  precipitate  which  is 
insoluble  in  diluted  nitric  acid. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — As  a test  for  calcium  salts  and  for  preparing  ferrous 
oxalate. 

Action  and  Uses. — From  its  resemblance  to  Epsom  salt  many  cases  of  poisoning 
by  oxalic  acid  have  occurred.  Its  taste  is  intensely  sour ; when  swallowed,  it,  in  general, 
soon  occasions  vomiting,  with  burning  pain  and  constriction  of  the  throat  and  stomach  ; 
the  ejected  matters  are  dark-colored,  and  may  contain  blood.  When  the  pain  is  very 
severe,  collapse  may  speedily  ensue,  with  drowsiness  or  stupor.  Sometimes  these  symp- 
toms are  unaccountably  delayed.  For  several  days  the  urine  abounds  in  oxalates.  In 
some  cases  death  is  rapid,  occurring  in  from  three  to  twenty  minutes;  in  others  it  has  been 


82 


A CII)  UM  PHOSPHORICUM. 


postponed  until  the  twenty-third  day  ; in  others  still  an  excessive  dose  has  been  promptly 
vomited,  and,  after  comparatively  slight  symptoms,  the  patients  have  recovered.  In  some 
who  recovered  a partial  loss  of  power  in  the  legs  has  been  observed.  The  quantity  of  the 
acid  fatal  to  life  is  equally  indeterminate.  The  usual  post-mortem  lesions  are  : dark 
discoloration  of  the  oesophagus  and  stomach,  gelatiniform  softening  of  the  mucous  mem- 
brane, and  even  perforation  of  the  coats  of  the  stomach.  The  blood  is  said  to  present 
an  unusually  bright  color.  The  uriniferous  tubes  are  filled  with  oxalates  (Fraenkel). 
The  appropriate  antidote  to  this  poison  is  lime  in  the  form  of  powdered  chalk  mixed  with 
water.  If  this  is  not  at  hand,  slaked  lime,  as  dried  whitewash,  may  be  resorted  to  until 
the  better  preparation  can  be  procured.  Binoxalate  of  potassium  causes  similar  symp- 
toms, which  require  the  same  treatment  as  those  of  oxalic  acid.  Oxalic  acid  and  the 
oxalates  appear  to  be  poisonous  through  a special  action  upon  the  nervous  system  and 
the  blood,  as  well  as  by  producing  gastro-intestinal  inflammation  ; but  Koch  ranks  it  with 
the  postassium  salts  as  a heart  poison  (. Archiv  f Exp.  Pathol .,  etc.,  xiv.  153). 

According  to  Cornilleau  ( Practitioner , xxv.  486),  a secret  remedy  for  diphtheria  which 
had  proved  very  successful  was  found  to  contain  oxalic  acid  in  combination  with  potash 
and  traces  of  tannin.  He  accordingly  used  the  following:  Oxalic  acid  Gm.  1.50;  infu- 
sion of  green  tea  Gm.  120  ; syrup  of  bitter  orange-peel  Gm.  30  ; of  which  mixture  a 
dessertspoonful  was  given  every  three  hours.  Each  dose  would  therefore  contain  about 
three-quarters  of  a grain  of  oxalic  acid.  The  alternative  method  suggested  by  him — viz. 
a decoction  of  fresh  sorrel-leaves — is  certainly  safer,  and  either  is  probably  as  useful  as 
infusion  of  sumac-berries  and  other  acidulous  and  astringent  preparations  used  as  pallia- 
tives of  the  throat  affection  in  diphtheria.  This  acid  has  been  recommended  as  a remedy 
for  asthma  and  chronic  bronchitis , but  there  is  no  sufficient  proof  of  its  virtues,  while  its 
dangers  are  evident. 

ACIDUM  PHOSPHORICUM,  U.  S.,  Br.,  JP.  G.— Phosphoric  Acid. 

Acide  phosphorique,  Fr.  ; Phosphor sdure,  G.  ; Acido  phosphorico,  It.,  Sp. 

Official  Phosphoric  Acid:  Formula  H3P04  — PO.(OH)3.  Molecular  weight -97.8. 

Strength  85  per  cent.  Spec.  grav.  1.710  U.  S. ; 66.3  per  cent.,  spec.  grav.  1.50  Br. ; 
25  per  cent.,  spec.  grav.  1.154  P.  G. 

Diluted  Phosphoric  Acid : Strength  10  per  cent.,  U.  S. ; 13.8  per  cent.,  Br.  Spec, 
grav.  1.057  U.  S.,  1.080  Br. 

Varieties  and  Origin. — Phosphoric  (metaphosphoric)  anhydride  is  obtained  in 
snow-white  flakes  on  burning  dry  phosphorus  in  dry  oxygen  or  atmospheric  air.  That 
this  new  body  has  a greater  weight  than  the  phosphorus  from  which  it  was  prepared  was 
noticed  by  Marggraf  (1743)  ; but  Gay  Lussac  (1772)  showed  this  increase  in  weight  to 
be  due  to  the  combination  with  air  (oxygen).  The  anhydride  has  the  composition  P205, 
and  attracts  moisture  with  avidity,  whereby  it  is  converted  into  monobasic  metaphosphoric 
acid,  HP03,  which  is  the  formula  of  glacial  phosphoric  acid.  This  acid  is,  however,  not 
prepared  in  the  manner  indicated,  but  is  obtained  from  bones,  which  are  the  calcium  com- 
pound of  the  tribasic  orthophosphoric  acid , H3P04,  discovered  by  Gahn  (1769)  and  isolated 
by  Scheele  (1771).  A third  modification  is  the  bibasic  diphosphoric  or  pyrophosphoric 
acid,  having  the  formula  H4P207.  Rother  (1876)  regards  the  following  as  the  correct 
formulas  : metaphosphoric  acid,  H2P206 ; pyrophosphoric  acid,  H4P207 ; and  orthophos- 
phoric acid,  H6P208.  The  three  acids  differ  from  each  other  in  the  following  reactions 
of  their  aqueous  solutions  : Metaphosphoric  acid  coagulates  albumen,  and  produces  white 
precipitates  with  barium  chloride  and  calcium  chloride,  and  a transparent  gelatinous 
precipitate  with  silver  nitrate.  Pyrophosphoric  acid  does  not  affect  albumen,  calcium 
chloride,  or  barium  chloride,  but  produces  a white  precipitate  with  silver  nitrate  on 
the  addition  of  a little  ammonia.  Orthophosphoric  acid  does  not  affect  albumen, 
calcium  chloride,  or  barium  chloride,  and  produces  with  silver  nitrate  a yellow  precipi- 
tate on  the  addition  of  a little  ammonia.  The  reaction  of  silver  salts  with  orthophos- 
phates was  first  described  by  Marggraf  (1746),  and  with  pyrophosphates  by  Clark  (1828)  ; 
and  the  difference  in  the  behavior  to  albumen  was  noticed  by  Berzelius  and  Engelhart 
(1826).  But  the  exact  chemical  relations  of  these  different  compounds  was  first  explained 
by  Thomas  Graham  (1833). 

Phosphoric  acid,  met  with  in  the  combined  state  in  the  mineral,  vegetable,  and  animal 
kingdoms,  is  orthophosphoric  acid.  Pyrophosphates  are  obtained  by  heating  to  redness 
orthophosphates  containing  1 atom  of  basylous  hydrogen  or  ammonium.  (See  Soph 


ACIDUM  PHOSPHORICUM. 


83 


Pyrophosphas.)  Metapliosphoric  acid  is  produced  on  heating  ortlio-  or  pyrophosphoric 
acid  or  their  ammonium  compounds  to  redness. 

Preparation. — 1.  Acidum  Piiosphoricum  Glaciale. — Glacial  Phosphoric  Acid, 
E. ; Acide  phosphorique  glacial,  Fr. ; Glasige  Phosphorsaure,  G. 

Formula  HP03.  Molecular  weight  78.84.  About  equal  parts  of  bones  burned  to 
whiteness,  and  sulphuric  acid  diluted  with  15  parts  of  water,  are  digested  for  some  time 
until  the  insoluble  part  has  been  converted  into  white  smooth  calcium  sulphate  ; the 
liquid,  containing  sulphuric  and  phosphoric  acids,  and  holding  calcium  and  magnesium 
phosphates  in  solution,  is  removed  by  filtration  and  washing  with  water,  neutralized  with 
ammonia  or  ammonium  carbonate,  separated  from  the  precipitated  phosphates,  and 
evaporated  to  dryness.  The  ammonium  phosphate  is  then  heated  in  a platinum  cruicible 
to  redness  until  the  ammonia  has  been  completely  driven  off.  Porcelain  capsules  are 
corroded  in  this  last  operation.  The  fused  acid  is  poured  upon  polished  iron  plates,  and, 
when  cool,  put  into  bottles. 

Thus  prepared,  phosphoric  acid  contains  a little  sodium,  to  free  it  from  which  Neu- 
stadtl  (1861)  proposes  to  neutralize  the  acid  with  ammonia,  precipitate  with  barium 
chloride,  and  decompose  the  resulting  barium  phosphate  after  it  has  been  thoroughly 
washed,  with  sulphuric  acid  ; the  acid  filtrate  is  then  evaporated  and  heated  to  redness. 

2.  Acidum  Phospiioricum,  U.  S. — Phosphoric  Acid , E. — When  phosphorus  is 
brought  in  contact  with  nitric  acid,  it  is  rapidly  oxidized  and  converted  into  phosphoric 
acid,  each  part  of  phosphorus  requiring  about  3|  parts  of  absolute  nitric  acid  for  com- 
plete oxidation.  The  reaction  may  be  seen  from  the  following  equation  : 5HN03  -J-  P3  -J- 
2H20  = 3H3P04  + 5NO.  In  order  to  control  the  violent  action,  a portion  of  the  nitric 
acid  is  properly  diluted  with  water,  about  an  equal  weight,  and  having  been  introduced 
into  a flask,  the  phosphorus  is  added  and  heat  applied  by  means  of  a boiling  water-bath  ; 
when  the  reaction  begins  to  slacken,  nitric  acid  is  added,  undiluted,  small  portions  at  a 
time.  After  all  the  acid  has  been  added  the  heat  is  continued  until  the  phosphorus 
is  completely  dissolved.  The  liquid  is  transferred  to  a porcelain  capsule,  and  heated  on 
a sand-bath  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  190°  C.  (374°  F.),  until  the  excess  of  nitric 
acid  has  been  driven  off.  As  phosphorus  is  nearly  always  contaminated  with  arsenic, 
the  latter  is  best  removed  at  this  stage  of  the  process  ; for  this  purpose  the  liquid  is 
diluted  with  water,  and  a stream  of  hydrogen  sulphide  allowed  to  pass  through  it  for  sev- 
eral hours.  The  liquid  is  set  aside  for  twenty-four  hours,  then  filtered  and  heated  to 
drive  off  all  the  gas  ; after  again  filtering  the  liquid  is  evaporated  to  the  desired  density. 
As  each  part  of  dry  phosphorus  will  yield  about  3.16  parts  of  absolute  orthophosphoric 
acid,  the  approximate  weight  of  finished  product  from  any  desired  quantity  of  phospho- 
rus can  be  found  by  calculation  ; thus,  if  10  av.  ozs.  of  phosphorus  are  used,  they 
would  produce  about  31.6  av.  ozs.  of  absolute  1I3P04 ; and  as  the  official  acid  must  con- 
tain 85  per  cent.,  the  liquid  should  be  evaporated  to  37  av.  ozs.,  and  the  proper  specific 
gravity  then  adjusted.  If  an  insufficient  quantity  of  nitric  acid  has  been  used,  the  fin- 
ished product  will  contain  phosphorous  acid  (see  Impurities ),  and  this  must  be  further 
oxidized  by  the  addition  of  nitric  acid,  and  the  excess  of  the  latter  again  expelled  by 
heat.  The  foregoing  process  is  practically  identical  with  that  of  the  Pharmacopoeia  of 
1880,  modified  by  Dr.  Squibb. 

Prof.  Markoe  (18<5)  proposed  a process  in  which  the  oxidation  of  the  phosphorus  is 
effected  through  the  intervention  of  iodine  and  bromine  and  at  a low  temperature.  2 
troyounces  of  phosphorus  and  12  troyounces  of  water  are  put  into  a flask  or  stone  jar; 
10  grains  of  iodine  are  added,  and  then  60  grains  of  bromine  by  drops ; when  the  reac- 
tion has  ceased,  add  12  troyounces  of  nitric  acid  ; set  the  vessel  in  cold  water,  and  when 
in  about  twenty-four  hours  the  solution  has  been  effected,  evaporate  the  liquid  until  all 
the  iodine,  bromine,  and  nitric  acid  have  been  expelled.  In  this  process  some  phospho- 
rus bromide  and  iodide  are  formed  and  decomposed  by  the  water,  with  the  formation  of 
phosphoric,  hydrobromic,  and  hydriodic  acids,  from  the  last  two  of  which,  reacting  with 
the  nitric  acid  present,  bromine  and  iodine  are  again  produced,  which  again  act  upon  the 
phosphorus,  etc.  It  is  very  important  to  follow  the  above  directions  strictly,  since  the 
incautious  addition  of  bromine  to  phosphorus  and  nitric  acid  may  cause  a dangerous 
explosion.  I he  solution  is  tested  and  finished  in  the  manner  described  above. 

Prof.  W.  T.  Wenzell  (1882)  has  again  suggested  a process  which  was  originally  pro- 
posed by  Bucholz,  and  was  formerly  much  employed.  When  phosphorus  is  partly  im- 
mersed in  water  in  such  a manner  that  the  sticks  are  not  in  contact  with  one  another,  and 
the  apparatus  is  arranged  so  that  the  air  has  access  to  the  phosphorus,  the  latter  will  be 
gradually  oxidized  in  the  moist  atmosphere  to  phosphorous  acid,  and  this  is  subsequently 


84 


ACIDUM  PHOSPHORICUM. 


oxidized  by  nitric  acid.  It  is  obvious  that  a considerable  amount  of  the  latter  may  be 
saved  by  utilizing  atmospheric  oxygen,  but  it  is  necessary  to  adopt  precautions  indi- 
cated above  and  thus  prevent  the  exposed  phosphorus  from  igniting.  The  mixture  of 
phosphorous  and  phosphoric  acids  obtained  by  spontaneous  oxidation  was  formerly  known 
as  phosphatic  acid. 

3.  Acidum  Phosphoricum  Dilutum,  U.  S.,  Br. — Diluted  Phosphoric  Acid,  E. ; 
Acide  phosphorique  medicinal,  Fr. ; Verdiinnte  Phosphorsaure,  G. 

Mix  Phosphoric  Acid  10  Gm.  with  Distilled  Water  75  Gm. — U.  S. 

Mix  concentrated  Phosphoric  Acid  3 fluidounces  with  distilled  water  sufficient  for  20 
fluidounces,  Br. 

4.  Acidum  Metaphosphoricum  Dilutum,  N.  F. — Diluted  Glacial  or  Metaphos- 
phoric  Acid. 

Glacial  Phosphoric  Acid,  780  grains,  Distilled  Water  enough  to  make  16  fluidounces; 
dissolve  without  the  aid  of  heat. 

When  prepared  from  pure  glacial  acid  this  preparation  contains  about  10  per  cent,  of 
metaphosphoric  acid. 

Properties. — 1.  Glacial  Phosphoric  Acid.  The  commercial  acid  is  in  colorless, 
transparent,  glass-like  masses,  which  are  slowly  deliquescent  in  the  air,  and  soluble  in 
water  and  in  alcohol ; the  solution  has  a strongly  acid  taste.  It  is  metaphosphoric  acid 
mixed  with  variable  porportions  of  pyrophosphoric  acid,  according  to  the  degree  and  dur- 
ation of  the  heat  used  in  preparing  it ; its  aqueous  solution  yields  gradually  a bulky  pre- 
cipitate with  tincture  of  ferric  chloride.  Chemically  pure  metaphosphoric  acid  is  a soft 
gum-like  mass,  which  melts  at  an  elevated  temperature,  is  volatilized  at  a red  heat,  and 
becomes  solid  and  glass-like  in  the  cold  only  through  the  presence  of  some  sodium  or 
other  phosphates  (Brescius,  1867).  We  found  (1860)  commercial  glacial  phosphoric 
acid  to  contain  from  76.46  to  83.48  per  cent,  of  phosphoric  anhydride  against  the  calcu- 
lated quantity  of  88.75,  the  impurities  consisting  of  excess  of  water  and  of  calcium  and 
magnesium  phosphates.  Prescott  obtained  (1872)  from  the  commercial  acid  an  amount 
of  soda  corresponding  to  from  .023  to  .038  per  cent,  of  sodium  phosphate.  Brescius 
found  in  a sample  15.3  per  cent  of  soda.  The  commercial  variety  occurring  in  glassy 
lumps  is,  as  a rule,  far  purer  than  that  in  form  of  sticks,  and  is  to  be  preferred.  These 
impurities  render  it  unfit  for  the  preparation  of  the  medicinal  phosphoric  acid  which  was 
permitted  by  the  Pharmacopoeia  of  1870.  When  dissolved  in  water  it  is  gradually  con- 
verted into  orthophosphoric  acid,  the  change  being  hastened  by  boiling ; the  solution  best 
adapted  for  this  purpose,  according  to  Littleton  Thompson  (1874),  is  made  of  1 part  of 
the  glacial  acid  and  2 parts  of  water,  when  boiling  for  about  fifteen  minutes  was 
found  to  be  sufficient.  The  presence  of  a small  quantity  of  nitric  acid  favors  the  change. 

Several  series  of  salts  are  known  of  both  metaphosphoric  acid  and  pyrophosphoric  acid, 
all  of  which  are  converted  into  orthophosphates  by  boiling  with  diluted  acids,  by  heating 
with  water  to  280°  C.  (536°  F.),  and  by  fusing  them  with  an  excess  of  alkali.  The 
soluble  metaphosphates  have  a neutral  or  slightly  acid  reaction  ; the  normal  pyrophos- 
phates are  faintly  alkaline,  and  the  acid  pyrophosphates  of  a weak  acid  reaction. 

The  insoluble  salts  of  both  acids  are  mostly  soluble  in  dilute  acids.  Ferrous,  ferric, 
and  mercurous  pyrophosphates,  and  those  of  copper,  zinc,  lead,  and  silver,  dissolve  also 
in  solution  of  sodium  pyrophosphate. 

2.  Phosphoric  Acid. — The  acid  now  recognized  under  this  name  is  a colorless,  inodor- 
ous acid  liquid  having  the  specific  gravity  1.710,  but  the  German  Pharmacopoeia  recog- 
nizes as  acidum  phosphoricum  an  acid  of  the  density  1.154.  If  evaporated  at  a temper- 
ature not  exceeding  160°  C.  (320°  F.),  a syrupy  liquid  is  obtained,  which  gradually  on 
standing,  more  rapidly  on  the  addition  of  a crystal  of  phosphoric  acid,  yields  colorless,  flat- 
tish,  hexagonal  prisms,  melting  at  about  40°  C.  (104°  F.),  deliquescing  in  a damp  atmo- 
sphere and  completely  soluble  in  alcohol  and  in  water.  The  table  on  page  85,  after  A. 
B.  Lyons,  indicates  the  strength  of  aqueous  solutions  in  phosphoric  acid  and  phosphoric 
anhydride. 

The  salts  of  orthophosphoric  acid,  with  the  exception  of  those  of  the  alkalies,  are 
mostly  insoluble  in  water ; the  insoluble  ones  dissolve  in  nitric  acid,  likewise  in  acetic 
acid,  with  the  exception  of  the  phosphates  of  lead,  iron  (ferric),  uranium,  and  aluminum. 
The  solution  of  an  orthophosphate  rendered  alkaline  by  ammonia  yields  a white  precipi- 
tate with  a mixture  of  magnesium  and  ammonium  salts.  This  precipitate  is  insoluble 
in  ammonia,  sparingly  soluble  in  water,  freely  soluble  in  acids,  and  at  a red  heat  is  con- 
verted into  magnesium  pyrophosphate ; this  reaction  is  often  used  for  the  gravimetric 
estimation  of  phosphoric  acid.  (See  Magnesii  sulphas.)  For  its  volumetric  estima- 


ACIDUM  PHOSPH ORICZTM. 


85 


Specific 
Gravity 
lo°  C. 

Percentage 

of 

Specific 
Gravity 
15°  C. 

Percentage 

of 

Specific 
Gravity 
15°  C. 

Percentage 

of 

at  15°  C. 
in  air. 

p2o5. 

h3po4. 

at  15°  C. 
in  air. 

p2o5- 

H2P04. 

at  15°  C. 
in  air. 

h3po4. 

1.0000 

0. 

0 

1.1816 

21.011 

29 

1.4215 

42.021 

58 

1.005G 

0.725 

1 

1.1889 

21.735 

30 

1.4312 

42.745 

59 

1.0113 

1.449 

2 

1.1962 

22.460 

31 

1.4409  ! 

43.470  1 

60 

1.0170 

2.174 

3 

1.2035 

23.184  , 

32 

1.4508 

44.194 

61 

1.0226 

2.808 

4 

1.2110 

23.909 

33 

1.4607 

44.919 

62 

1.0283 

3.623 

5 

1.2184 

24.633  j 

34 

1.4706 

45.643 

63 

1.0340 

4.347 

6 

1.2260 

25.358  1 

35 

1.4807 

46.368 

64 

1.0398 

5.072 

7 

1.2336 

26.082  l 

36 

1.4908 

47.092 

65 

1.0457 

5.796 

8 

1.2412 

26.807 

37 

1.5010 

| 47.817 

66 

1.0517 

6.521 

9 

1.2489 

27.531 

38 

1.5113 

48.541 

67 

1.0577  i 

7.245 

10 

1.2567 

28.256  j 

39 

1.5216 

49.266 

68 

1.0637  ; 

7.970 

11 

1.2645 

28.980 

40 

1.5321 

49.990 

69 

1.0698 

8.094 

12 

1.2724 

29.704 

41 

1.5426 

1 50.714 

70 

1.0759 

9.419 

13 

1.2804 

30.429 

42 

1.5532 

51.439 

71 

1.0821 

10.143 

14 

1.2885 

31.153  ! 

43 

1.5638 

52.163 

72 

1.0882  ! 

10.868 

15 

1.2967 

31.878  ; 

44 

1.5746 

52.888 

73 

1.0945 

11.592 

16 

1.3050 

32.602 

45 

1.5854 

53.612 

74 

1.1008 

12.317 

17 

1.3134 

33.327 

46 

1.5963 

54.337 

75 

1.1072 

13.041 

18 

1.3219 

34  051 

47 

1.6073 

55-061 

76 

1.1136 

13.766 

19 

1.3304 

34.776 

48 

1.6193 

55-786 

77 

1.1201 

14.490 

20 

1.3391 

35.500 

49 

1 1.6304 

56-510 

1 78 

1.1266 

15.215 

21 

1.3479 

36.225 

50 

1.6416 

57-235 

79 

1.1332 

15.939 

22 

1.3568 

36.949 

51 

1.6529 

57-959 

80 

1.1399 

16.664 

23 

1.3657 

37.674 

52 

1.6642 

57-684 

81 

1.1467 

17.388 

24 

1.3748 

38.398 

53 

1.6756 

59-408 

82 

1.1535 

18.113 

25 

1.3840 

39.123 

54 

1.6871 

60-133 

83 

1.1604 

18.837 

26 

1.3932 

39.847 

55 

1.6986 

60-857 

84 

1.1674 

19.562 

27 

1.4026 

40.562 

56 

1.7102 

61.582 

85 

1.1745 

20.286 

28 

1.4120 

41.286 

57 

1 

tion  the  Pharmacopoeia  prescribes  titration  with  normal  alkali  solution,  using  phenol- 
phtalein  as  an  indicator,  as  follows : 0.978  Gm.  of  phosphoric  acid,  diluted  with  water, 
should  require  for  neutralization  not  less  than  17  Cc.  of  decinormal  potassium- 
hydroxide  solution.  Phosphoric  acid,  being  tribasic,  is  capable  of  forming  three  classes 
of  salts  with  the  alkalies — namely,  primary,  secondary,  and  tertiary — the  first  having  a 
distinctly  acid  reaction  ; the  second  neutral  or  only  slightly  alkaline ; and  the  last,  a 
strongly  alkaline  reaction.  Complete  neutralization,  therefore,  cannot  be  aimed  at,  as  the 
normal  phosphate  itself  would  affect  the  indicator ; and  since  different  indicators  show 
different  behavior  with  the  primary  and  secondary  phosphates,  it  is  of  importance  to 
know  at  which  point  the  end  reaction  occurs.  With  phenolphtalein  the  point  of  neu- 
trality is  observed  as  soon  as  two-thirds  of  the  acid  present  have  combined  to  form 
dipotassiumhydrogen  phosphate,  K2HP04,  while  with  methyl-orange  and  Congo-red  the 
change  occurs  when  one-third  of  the  acid  has  combined,  forming  monopotassiumhydro- 
gen  phosphate,  KH2P04.  This  peculiar  behavior  necessitates  different  calculations  as 
the  respective  color  indicators  are  used ; with  phenolphtalein  each  Cc.  of  normal  KOH 
solution  represents  0.0489  Gm.  H3P04,  whereas  with  methyl-orange  the  value  of  each  Cc. 
is  increased  to  0.0978.  The  number  of  cubic  centimeters  y KOH  solution,  added  in 
either  case  to  produce  the  first  permanent  alkaline  reaction,  when  multiplied  by  the  respec- 
tive factors  will  indicate  the  total  amount  of  orthophosphoric  acid  present  in  the  weighed 
sample,  and  from  this  the  percentage  is  readily  calculated.  A solution  of  ferric  chloride, 
lead  acetate,  or  uranic  acetate  may  also  be  employed  for  volumetric  estimation,  the  pre- 
cipitates by  the  three  salts  being  soluble  in  nitric  acid,  but  insoluble  in  acetic  acid.  The 
strength  of  medicinal  phosphoric  acid,  which  has  been  proved  to  be  free  from  other  acids 
and  from  salts,  may  be  conveniently  ascertained  by  combining  with  lead,  using  an  excess 
of  the  pure  oxide,  evaporating  to  dryness,  and  igniting,  when  the  increase  of  weight 
indicates  the  amount  of  phosphoric  anhydride. 

3.  Diluted  Phosphoric  Acid  corresponds  in  all  respects  to  the  preceding,  except 
that  it  contains  only  10  per  cent,  of  H3P04  and  has  the  density  of  1.057.  When  4.89 
Gm.  of  this  acid  are  titrated  with  normal  alkali  solution,  10  Cc.  of  the  latter  should 
be  required  before  the  alkaline  end  reaction  occurs,  using  phenolphtalein  as  an  indicator. 
The  British  Pharmacopoeia  requires  355  grains  of  this  acid  to  yield  with  180  grains  of 


86 


ACIDUM  PICRIC  UM. 


oxide  of  lead  a residue  weighing  215.5  grains;  6 fluidrachms  (Rr.)  of  this  acid  corre- 
spond to  35.5  grains  P205  or  49  grains  H3P04. 

Impurities. — Pure  glacial  phosphoric  acid  dissolves  completely  in  distilled  water, 
and  this  solution  is  not  precipitated  on  standing  for  two  days,  after  having  been  saturated 
with  hydrogen  sulphide  (arsenic,  lead).  When  boiled  for  some  time,  and  then  super- 
saturated with  ammonia,  no  precipitate  is  produced,  with  the  exception  of  a slight 
turbidness  (calcium,  magnesium),  and  the  further  addition  of  ammonium  sulphide  causes 
no  change  (iron  and  similar  metals).  With  caustic  potassa  in  excess  ammonia  is  not 
evolved.  If  completely  precipitated  by  lead  acetate,  the  filtrate,  after  the  excess  of  lead 
has  been  removed  by  hydrogen  sulphide,  leaves,  on  evaporation,  only  a very  minute 
residue  (potassium,  sodium).  Medicinal  phosphoric  and  diluted  phosphoric  acid  are 
tested  in  the  same  manner  as  the  preceding,  except  that  for  the  detection  of  calcium  and 
magnesium  boiling  is  not  required  before  supersaturating  with  ammonia.  The  presence 
of  nitric  acid  is  determined  by  the  black  or  dark-brown  color  appearing  on  the  addition 
of  a crystal  of  ferrous  sulphate,  followed  by  the  careful  addition,  without  agitation,  of 
concentrated  sulphuric  acid.  In  applying  the  following  tests  the  stronger  phosphoric 
acid  should  be  diluted  with  5 volumes  of  distilled  water : Hydrochloric  acid  is  detected 
by  the  curdy-white  precipitate  insoluble  in  nitric  acid  occurring  with  silver  nitrate ; sul- 
phuric acid,  by  a white  precipitate  with  barium  chloride  ; pyrophosphoric  and  metaphos- 
phoric  acids,  by  a precipitate  with  an  equal  volume  of  tincture  of  ferric  chloride ; and 
phosphorous  acid,  by  the  speedy  decoloration  of  a drop  of  solution  of  potassium  perman- 
ganate, by  the  precipitate  of  calomel  when  warmed  with  a solution  of  corrosive  subli- 
mate, or  by  the  black  color  with  silver  nitrate  solution.  Hydrogen  sulphide  should  not 
produce  either  a white  turbidity  of  sulphur  (phosphorous  acid),  or,  after  standing,  a 
colored  turbidness  or  precipitate  (arsenic,  lead).  Arsenic  is  most  conveniently  detected 
by  Fleitmann’s  test  (see  page  28)  after  supersaturating  the  acid  with  potassa  or  soda,  or, 
according  to  U.  S.  P.,  by  Bettendorff’s  test. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  views  expressed  by  different  writers  in  regard  to  the 
degree  and  mode  of  action  of  phosphoric  acid  are  not  easily  harmonized,  and  seem  to  be 
rather  theoretical  deductions  than  the  results  of  clinical  observation. 

According  to  Andrews,  the  sensations  produced  by  a dose  of  from  40  drops  to  3 drachms 
of  the  acid  were  those  of  moderate  alcoholic  stimulation.  When  a larger  dose  was  taken 
there  was  a feeling  of  drowsiness  and  inertness  that  continued  for  some  hours.  It  was 
employed  by  this  physician  in  many  cases  of  insane  melancholy , and  of  persons  whose 
minds  had  been  overtaxed,  and  who  had  become  nervous  and  timid,  with  a sense  of  wea- 
riness and  inability  to  continue  any  occupation.  But  as  its  use  was  supplemented  by  “ re- 
laxation from  business  and  labor”  and  u some  suitable  tonic,”  and  especially  by  some  popu- 
lar medicines  containing  iron,  potassa,  magnesia,  and  lime,  the  share  of  phosphoric  acid  in 
the  patients’  improvement  is  more  than  problematical.  It  has  been  used,  on  theoretical 
grounds,  in  the  treatment  of  dyspepsia  with  an  excessive  proportion  of  earthy  phosphates 
in  the  urine ; in  scrofulous  caries  and  in  exostoses  of  the  bones ; to  correct  niglit-sweats  in 
phthisis  and  other  hectical  diseases  ; in  haemoptysis  and  in  catarrhal  affections  of  the  lungs 
and  of  the  genito-urinary  organs  ; in  jaundice  and  in  diabetes.  In  the  last-named  disease 
it  has  a remarkable  power  of  diminishing  thirst,  and  consequently  of  lessening  the 
harassing  secretion  of  urine.  At  the  same  time  it  affords  a pleasant  acidulous  bever- 
age. The  dose  of  medicinal  phosphoric  acid  is  from  Gm.  1.30-4.00  (npxx-lx),  sufficiently 
diluted  to  be  agreeable  to  the  taste.  Grossich  used  a 10  per  cent,  solution  of  phosphoric 
acid  as  a dressing  for  ulcers  and  for  injecting  sinuses  and  even  scrofulous  joints , and  claimed 
great  superiority  for  this  treatment  over  others  ( Therap . Gaz.,  xii.  262). 

ACIDUM  PICRICUM,  F.  Cod.— Picric  Acid. 

Acidum  carbazoticum. — Carbazotic  or  Nitrophemsic  acid , Tmnitrophenol , E. ; Acide  pic- 
rique . carbazotique , nitroxanthique , etc.;  Jaune-amer , Fr. ; Pikrinsdurey  Trinitrocarbol- 
sciure,  Welter  sches  Bitter,  G. ; Acid o picric o,  Sp. 

Formula  C6H2(N02)30H.  Molecular  weight  228.57. 

Origin  and  Preparation. — A solution  of  this  compound,  as  obtained  from  indigo, 
was  recognized  as  a dyeing  material  by  Woulfe  (1771).  Hausmann  (1788)  prepared  picric 
acid  from  the  same  material  as  a bitter  mass ; Welter  (1799)  obtained  it  in  crystals  from 
silk,  and  subsequently  its  composition  was  investigated  by  Liebig,  Dumas,  and  others.  It 
may  be  obtained  by  the  action  of  nitric  acid  upon  salicin  and  its  derivatives,  phloridzin, 
indigo,  aloes,  benzoin,  silk,  and  other  substances,  and  is  best  prepared  by  dropping  1 part 


ACIDUM  PICRICUM. 


87 


of  carbolic  acid  into  8 parts  of  warm  nitric  acid,  adding,  after  the  violent  reaction  lias 
ceased,  3 parts  of  fuming  nitric  acid,  heating  the  mixture,  and  finally  evaporating  it,  when, 
on  cooling,  the  new  compound  will  crystallize,  and  may  be  purified  by  washing  with  cold 
water  and  recrystallizing  from  boiling  water  or  diluted  alcohol ; C,;H60  + 3HN03  yields 
C6H3(N02)30+3H20. 

Properties. — Picric  acid  crystallizes  in  bright-yellow,  inodorous  needles  or  scales, 
which  melt  at  122.5°  C.  (252.5°  F.),  and  when  cautiously  heated  sublime  without  decom- 
position, forming  yellow  suffocating  vapors  which  condense  again  to  crystals  ; but  on  being 
rapidly  and  strongly  heated  in  a test-tube  picric  acid  is  decomposed  with  detonation,  while 
upon  platinum-foil  it  burns  with  a sooty  flame,  without  leaving  any  residue.  It  has  an 
acid  and  extremely  bitter  taste,  dissolves  at  5°  C.  (41°  F.)  in  160  parts,  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.) 
in  86  parts,  and  the  boiling  temperature  in  25  parts  of  water,  forming  a bright-yellow 
solution,  and  is  readily  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  chloroform,  benzene,  and  petroleum  benziu. 
Its  solutions  stain  the  skin  and  other  organic  matter  permanently  yellow;  hence  its  use 
in  dyeing.  The  aqueous  solution  precipitates  gelatin.  It  unites  with  bases,  forming  salts 
which  are  mostly  yellow,  crystallizable,  have  a bitter  taste,  and  are  explosive  by  percus- 
sion or  when  heated.  The  potassium  picrate  requires  260  parts  of  water  of  15°  C.  (59° 
F.),  but  only  14  parts  of  boiling  water,  for  solution. 

Tests. — The  above-described  properties  are  sufficient  for  recognizing  the  acid.  Its 
purity  is  shown  by  the  complete  solubility  in  the  solvents  mentioned  before.  On  heating 
an  aqueous  solution  of  picric  acid  with  chlorinated  lime,  very  pungent  and  irritating  vapors 
of  the  so-called  chloropicrin  are  given  off — a compound  more  properly  known  as  nitrochlo- 
roform  and  nitrotrichlormethane,  C(N02)C13. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — A solution  of  1 part  of  picric  acid  in  100  parts  of  water 
forms  a convenient  test  for  alkaloids,  nearly  all  of  which  are  precipitated  from  their  diluted 
acidulated  solutions,  except  aconitine,  caffeine,  cocaine,  coniine,  hvoscyamine,  morphine, 
and  theobromine. 

Picric  acid  is  much  employed  for  dyeing  wool  and  silk  yellow,  also  for  staining  wood. 

Action  and  Uses. — Given  continuously  to  rabbits,  picric  acid  causes  emaciation, 
diarrhoea,  ecchymosis  in  the  intestine,  yellowness  of  the  conjunctiva  and  of  the  urine, 
and  in  large  doses  nausea,  diarrhoea,  flatulence,  depression,  and  twitching  of  the  cutaneous 
muscles.  After  death  the  red  blood-disks  are  found  dissolved  in  part,  and  in  the  white 
corpuscles  the  nuclei  exhibit  a lively  molecular  movement.  The  acid,  and  also  its  salts, 
given  to  man,  induce  a yellowness  of  the  conjunctiva,  skin,  and  urine  (filed.  Record ', 
xxxii.  33).  This  fact  is  of  interest  as  illustrating  the  mode  of  production  of  jaundice 
in  certain  cases,  as  in  yellow  fever  and  acute  yellow  atrophy  of  the  liver.  It  has  been 
prescribed  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.03-0.20  (grs.  ^ — iij)  in  alcoholic  solution.  Picrate  of  am- 
monium has  been  used  in  the  treatment  of  mtermittent  fever  and  of  intestinal  icorms  in 
doses  of  about  a quarter  of  a grain,  and  upon  theoretical  grounds,  but  fruitlessly. 
Cheron  has  used  picric  acid  in  fungous  endometritis  after  employment  of  the  curette. 
He  used  a solution  of  1 drachm  of  the  acid  to  1^  pints  of  water,  injecting  it  through  a 
double  canula,  and  claimed  it  to  be  antiseptic  and  analgesic  (Med.  News,  1.  659).  Cal- 
velli  has  proposed  a solution  of  the  acid  in  water  (6 : 1000)  as  a lotion  for  erysipelas, 
eczema , and  lymphangitis  ( Lancet , Apr.  1889,  p.  702).  It  has  been  applied  with  alleged 
advantage  to  fissured  nipples  in  solutions  containing  13  parts,  and  also  1 part  in  1000  of 
distilled  water,  and  has  been  recommended  by  Bufalini  for  eczema  impetiginoides  after  the 
crusts  were  softened  and  removed  by  cod  oil  and  soft  soap.  He  employed  a saturated 
watery  solution  of  the  acid,  rubbing  it  in  daily.  At  present  it  does  not  appear  to  possess 
much  therapeutical  value.  It  has  been  used  as  a test  for  albumen  ( Med . News,  xliii. 
458 ; xlv.  682). 

Ammonium  picrate  was  found  by  Dujardin-Beaumetz,  in  experiments  on  animals,  to 
reduce  the  force  and  number  of  the  arterial  pulsations.  Gm.  0.01  (gr.  1)  arrested 
the  heart  of  a frog,  and  Gm.  0.20  (gr.  iij)  lessened  by  one-half  the  pulse-rate  of  a 
rabbit.  If  a man  took  more  than  Gm.  0.07-0.08  (gr.  If)  a day,  it  occasioned  giddiness, 
headache,  and  general  debility — a condition  which  seemed  analogous  to  that  produced  by 
quinine.  As  long  ago  as  1830  ammonium  picrate  was  used  by  Braconnot  as  an  anti- 
periodic ; and  in  1873,  Dujardin-Beaumetz  spoke  of  it  as  a substitute,  though  an  inferior 
one,  for  quinine  ( Bull . et  Mem.  Soc.  Ther.,  1873,  p.  1).  In  1887,  Dr.  Marten  Clark,  an 
East  Indian  physician,  reported  that  during  four  and  a half  years  he  had  treated  with  it 
over  10,000  cases  of  malarial  disease  with  the  happiest  results,”  and  therefore  had 
abandoned  the  use  of  quinine  entirely.  He  prescribed  from  Gm.  0.008-0.10  (gr.  jss) 
four  or  five  times  a day  in  pill.  He  also  found  it  efficient  in  malarial  neuralgia  and  colicy 


88 


ACIDUM  SALICYLICUM. 


but  not  in  remittent  fever  (Med.  Record , xxxi.  521).  In  several  cases  Fuller  obtained 
analogous  effects  (ibid.,  xxxii.  33).  It  has  been  used  as  a vermicide,  and  especially  in 
trichiniasis,  but  without  advantage. 

ACIDUM  SALICYLICUM,  U.  S.,  Br.,  F.  G.,  F.  Cod.— Salicylic  Acid. 

Ortho-oxybenzoic  acid , E.  ; Acide  salicylique,  Fr. ; Salicylsdure,  G. ; Acido  salicilico , 
It.,  Sp. 

Formula  HC7H503  = C6H4.OH.COOH.  Molecular  weight  137.67. 

Origin  and  Formation. — It  occurs  in  the  free  state  in  the  flowers  of  Spiraea 
Ulmaria,  and  as  methyl-salicylic  ether  in  the  leaves  of  Gaultheria  procumbens  and 
Andromeda  Leschenaultii,  and  is  formed  from  salicin,  indigo,  and  some  other  organic 
matters  by  adding  them  to  potassium  hydroxide  heated  to  fusion.  It  was  discovered  by 
Piria  (1838)  as  a derivative  of  salicin  ; its  presence  in  oil  of  wintergreen  was  proven  by 
Procter  (1848),  and  in  several  species  of  viola  by  Mandelin  (1881). 

Preparation. — It  may  be  prepared  from  oil  of  wintergreen  by  heating  it  with 
strong  solution  of  potassa  as  long  as  methylic  alcohol  is  given  off,  and  decomposing  the 
resulting  potassium  salicylate  by  hydrochloric  acid.  But  it  is  at  present  extensively 
prepared,  according  to  Kolbe  (1874),  from  carbolic  acid.  As  the  first  step,  dry  sodium 
carbolate  is  prepared,  which  is  introduced  into  a retort;  dry  carbondioxide  is  passed 
through  it  while  heat  is  applied,  gradually  increased  from  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  to  220°  C. 
(428°  F.),  and  not  over  250°  C.  (464°  F.).  By  this  operation  carbon  dioxide  is  made  to 
enter  into  the  molecule  of  phenol,  producing  disodium  salicylate,  while  one-half  of  the 
carbolic  acid  distils  over ; 2NaC6H50  + C02,  yields  Na2C7H403  4-  C6H5OH.  The 
residue  in  the  retort  is  now  dissolved  in  boiling  water,  filtered  if 
necessary,  and  decomposed  by  hydrochloric  acid,  when,  on  cooling, 
impure  salicylic  acid,  having  a brown  or  reddish-brown  color,  is  pre- 
cipitated in  the  form  of  a crystalline  powder ; this  reaction  occurs  as 
follows : Na2C7H403  + 2HC1  = 2NaCl  + C7H603  (salicylic  acid), 
sodium  chloride  remaining  in  solution.  The  impure  acid  thus  obtained 
is  further  purified  by  dissolving  it  in  boiling  water  or  weak  alcohol, 
treating  the  solution  with  animal  charcoal,  and  crystallizing  the  filtrate 
after  the  addition  of  a little  hydrochloric  acid.  B.  Schmitt  has 
proven  that  sodium  phenate  treated  in  the  cold  with  carbon  dioxide 
yields  sodium  phenylcarbonate  (NaC6H50  + C02  = NaC6H50C02),  and 
that  the  latter  compound,  when  heated  under  pressure  to  120°-140° 
C.  (248°-284°  F.),  is  changed  to  monosodium  salicylate  (NaC6H50C02- 
— NaC7H503)  ; from  this  salt  salicylic  acid  can  then  be  obtained  by  the 
usual  method  of  decomposition  with  hydrochloric  acid.  The  process 
has  been  patented.  A.  Bautert  recommends  (1875)  the  purification 
of  it  by  distillation  with  steam  previously  heated  to  170°  C.  (338°  F.), 
by  which  some  black  resin  is  left  as  a residue ; by  recrystallization 
from  boiling  water  a little  carbolic  acid  is  removed.  Contact  with  iron 
or  with  materials  containing  iron  is  to  be  avoided,  since  a reddish  color  is  thereby  im- 
parted. According  to  Squibb  (1877),  it  is  best  purified  by  subliming  it  with  the  aid  of 
steam  heat. 

Properties. — Thus  obtained,  salicylic  acid  is  in  small  acicular  crystals,  white, 
inodorous,  of  a sweetish,  acidulous,  somewhat  acrid  taste,  and  of  the  spec.  grav.  1.45. 
The  commercial  article  frequently  has  a yellowish  or  brownish  tinge  and  a slight  odor. 
It  fuses  at  156°  C.  (312.8°  F.),  and  if  carefully  heated  sublimes  unaltered,  and  without 
boiling,  at  about  200°  C.  (392°  F.).  When  rapidly  heated  to  between  220°  and  230°  C. 
(428°  and  446°  F.),  it  is  decomposed  into  carbon  dioxide  and  phenol ; C7H603  yields 
C02  -)-  C6H5OH.  According  to  Bourgoin  (1879),  1000  parts  of  distilled  water  dissolve 

At  0°  5°  10°  15°  20°  30°  50°  60°  70°  80°  90°  100°  C. 

1.50  1.65  1.90  2.25  2.70  3.90  8.00  12.25  19.90  32.55  51.80  79.15  parts  salicylic  acid. 

The  hot  solution,  when  slowly  cooled,  yields  long,  slender  needles.  The  solubility  in 
water  is  considerably  increased  by  the  addition  of  phosphates,  citrates,  and  acetates  of 
the  alkalies,  and  of  borax,  the  solution  made  with  the  latter  gradually  acquiring  a bitter 
taste.  It  dissolves  freely  at  ordinary  temperatures  in  wood  spirit,  in  2 parts  of  absolute 

and  2.4  parts  of  90  per.  cent,  alcohol,  in  3.5  parts  of  amylic  alcohol,  in  2 parts  of  ether, 

in  80  parts  of  chloroform,  in  80  parts  of  benzene,  and  in  60  parts  of  fixed  oils.  Its  solu- 


Fig.  8. 


Crystal  of  Salicylic 
Acid. 


A Cl  DU  M SALICYLICUM. 


89 


tion  in  5 parts  of  boiling  oil  of  turpentine  congeals  on  cooling.  C.  Becker  (1875) 
observed  that  1 part  of  salicylic  acid  and  2 parts  of  olive  oil,  heated  together,  form  a 
homogeneous  mixture.  On  adding  to  a small  portion  of  salicylic  acid,  in  a test-tube, 
about  1 Cc.  of  concentrated  sulphuric  acid,  and  then  cautiously,  about  1 Cc.  of  methylic 
alcohol,  in  drops,  on  heating  the  mixture  to  boiling,  the  odor  of  oil  of  gaultheria  will  be 
evolved.  With  borax  a crystallizable  union  is  obtained,  NaC7H503  + C7H5(B0)03 
of  acid  reaction  (Prescott).  With  half  its  weight  of  borax  and  two  and  a half  times 
its  weight  of  glycerin,  a 25  per  cent,  solution  of  salicylic  acid  may  be  obtained.  The 
alcoholic  solution,  evaporated  spontaneously,  yields  the  acid  in  large  oblique  quad- 
rangular prisms.  The  aqueous  or  alcoholic  solutions  acquire  a deep  violet  color  with 
ferric  chloride,  provided  alkalies,  alkaline  salts,  and  most  acids  are  absent.  The  aqueous 
solution  yields  with  bromine-water  a crystalline  precipitate  sparingly  soluble  in  water, 
and  when  boiled  with  Millon’s  reagent  of  mercuric  nitrate  gives  a red  color.  A blood- 
red  color,  changing  to  brown  and  black,  is  produced  by  adding  an  excess  of  sulphuric 
acid  to  a mixture  of  salicylic  acid  and  sugar,  and  applying  a gentle  heat.  Sulphate  of 
copper  produces  an  emerald-green  color  in  very  dilute  solutions  of  normal  salicylates  or 
salicylic  acid.  Potassium  chlorate  and  hydrochloric  acid  convert  it,  like  phenol,  quinone, 
and  allied  compounds,  into  cKloranil  or  tetrachloroquinone,  C6C1402,  which  forms  yellow 
crystals  soluble  in  ammonia  with  a deep-red  color.  Salicylic  acid  effervesces  with  car- 
bonates, behaving  as  a monobasic  acid ; but  under  certain  circumstances  a second 
hydrogen  atom  may  be  replaced  by  metals,  yielding  Piria’s  neutral  salicylates  (1855), 
which  are  decomposed  by  carbonic  acid.  Combined  with  alkalies,  the  solution  of  salicylic 
acid  turns  brown  in  contact  with  the  air.  On  dry  distillation  the  salicylates  are  decom- 
posed, yielding  carbon  dioxide  and  phenol. 

Impurities. — According  to  J.  Williams  (1878),  salicylic  acid  prepared  by  Kolbe’s 
process  is  contaminated  with  another  acid,  which  he  provisionally  named  cresol- salicylic 
acidy  and  which  remains  in  the  mother-liquor  on  neutralizing  a solution  in  hot  water  with 
calcium  carbonate ; if  the  precipitated  calcium  salicylate  be  purified  by  recrystalli- 
zation from  boiling  water  and  afterward  decomposed  by  hydrochloric  acid,  pure  salicylic 
acid  is  obtained.  It  should  be  absolutely  free  from  the  odor  of  phenol,  the  presence  of 
which  lowers  its  melting-point,  and  its  aqueous  solution,  to  which  a little  nitric  acid  has 
been  added,  should  not  be  precipitated  by  barium  chloride  (sulphuric  acid)  or  by 
silver  nitrate  (hydrochloric  acid).  Heated  upon  platinum  foil,  salicylic  acid  should 
evaporate  without  leaving  any  residue  (mineral  impurities).  It  should  dissolve  in  cold 
concentrated  sulphuric  acid  without  imparting  any  or  only  a faint  yellow-color  (organic 
impurities).  Kolbe  (1876)  has  given  the  following  practical  test:  It  should  be  com- 
pletely soluble  in  absolute  alcohol,  and  the  solution,  if  allowed  to  evaporate  spontaneously 
and  without  contact  with  iron,  should  yield  a white  residue  of  aggregated  crystals,  the 
points  of  which  are  colorless  and  transparent.  In  the  presence  of  iron  the  ends  will  be 
reddish  or  purplish,  and  with  organic  coloring  matter  will  appear  yellowish  or  brown. 

Two  other  oxybenzoic  acids  are  known,  wdiich  melt  at  200°  and  210°  C.  (392°  and 
410°  F.)  and  do  not  give  a violet-red  color  with  ferric  chloride.  The  para-acid  is  more 
freely  soluble  than  the  others,  and  is  obtained  in  Kolbe’s  process  for  salicylic  acid  by 
using  potassium  instead  of  sodium  phenate  and  increasing  the  heat  to  above  150°  C. 
(302°  F.). 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Acidum  borosalicylicum,  Borosalicylic  acid.  Dissolve 
1 part  of  boric  acid  in  5 parts  of  boiling  water,  and  2 parts  of  salicylic  acid  in  10  parts 
of  alcohol ; mix  the  solutions,  and  evaporate  slowly  by  means  of  a water-bath  (Hager). 
It  is  a white  crystalline  powder  or  small  needles,  soluble  in  200  parts  of  cold  water,  40 
parts  of  hot  water,  and  10  parts  of  alcohol,  and  has  a persistently  bitter  taste.  It  pos- 
sesses antiseptic  properties. 

Salicylic  Collodion.  Dissolve  salicylic  acid  6 parts  and  extract  of  cannabis  1 part 
in  collodion  48  parts  (Gezon).  It  has  been  recommended  for  the  removal  of  corns,  and 
is  applied  for  4 or  5 consecutive  nights  and  mornings,  followed  on  the  next  day  by  a warm 
bath. 

Salicylic  acid  is  used  for  the  preparation  of  salicylated  cotton,  of  sodium  salicylate, 
U.  S.y  and  other  salts. 

Ammonium  Salicylate  is  prepared  by  neutralizing  salicylic  acid  with  ammonia  or 
ammonium  carbonate,  and  evaporating,  when  the  monobasic  salt  crystallizes  in  scales  and 
needles  ; but  on  rendering  the  concentrated  liquid  alkaline  with  ammonia  the  bibasic  salt 
is  obtained.  Both  have  a sweet  taste  and  are  readily  soluble  in  water. 

Mercuric  Salicylate  occurs  as  a white  amorphous  powder,  and  is  obtained  by 


90 


ACIDUM  SALICYLICUM. 


boiling  yellow  mercuric  oxide,  salicylic  acid,  and  water  together.  It  is  soluble  in  solu- 
tions of  sodium  chloride  and  sodium  hydroxide. 

Calcium  Salicylate  is  best  prepared  by  decomposing  a solution  of  sodium  salicylate 
with  calcium  acetate,  or  salicylic  acid  may  be  neutralized  with  calcium  carbonate.  It  is 
a white  crystalline  powder  without  odor  and  taste,  and  soluble  in  2000  parts  of  cold 
water.  Dilute  acetic  and  mineral  acids  dissolve  the  salt  readily.  Its  chief  use  is  for 
children  in  diarrhoea  in  doses  of  0.5-1. 5 Gm.  (71-24  grains). 

Allied  Acids. — Sulphosalicylic  acid,  salicyl-sulphonic  acid,  C6H3S03H.0H.C00H,  occurs 
as  colorless  acicular  crystals,  freely  soluble  in  water  and  in  alcohol.  It  is  obtained  by  the  action 
of  sulphuric  anhydride  on  salicylic  acid,  or  by  treating  salicylic  acid  with  strong  sulphuric  acid. 
Its  chief  use  is  as  a delicate  test  for  proteids  of  all  kinds,  albumen,  peptones,  globulins,  and 
fibrin.  1 part  of  egg-albumen  in  12,500  parts  of  water  can  be  detected  by  this  reagent.  A dense 
bulky  white  precipitate,  which  is  not  redissolved  on  boiling,  is  formed  in  all  cases  except  albu- 
moses  and  peptones,  and  in  these  the  precipitate,  which  dissolves  on  boiling  reappears  on  cooling. 

Cresotic  acid,  homosalicylic  acid,  oxytoluic  acid,  C6H3CH3OHCOOII.  Three  varieties  of 
this  acid  occur — ortho-,  meta-,  and  paracresotic  acid,  homologous  with  the  three  oxybenzoic  acids. 
They  may  be  prepared  from  the  three  isomeric  cresols  by  a process  similar  to  that  for  synthetic 
salicylic  acid.  The  acids  occur  in  long  prismatic  crystals,  dissolve  readily  in  alcohol,  ether,  and 
chloroform,  but  less  so  in  hot  water  and  only  with  difficulty  in  cold  water.  The  paracresotic 
acid  is  the  only  one  that  has  met  with  much  favor  among  physicians ; its  melting-point  is  at 
151°  C.  (303.8°  F.)  ; it  has  been  used  as  a sodium  salt  in  form  of  a finely  crystalline  powder,  sol- 
uble in  24  parts  of  warm  water,  and  possessing  a bitter  but  not  repulsive  taste.  In  many  cases 
it  has  been  found  superior  to  salicylic  acid.  Young  adults  can  safely  be  given  as  much  as  60  or 
90  grains  daily,  in  divided  doses. 

Action  and  Uses. — Among  the  most  usual  effects  of  salicylic  acid  and  salicylate 
of  sodium  in  full  medicinal  doses  are  subjective  auditory  phenomena  consisting  of  buzz- 
ing, humming,  whistling,  rushing,  and  knocking  noises,  accompanied  with  more  or  less 
deafness.  They  are  seldom  absent  when  the  quantity  of  either  medicine  taken  in  twenty- 
four  hours  exceeds  150  grains.  The  symptom  appears  to  be  identical  with  one  of  the 
effects  of  quinine.  Occasionally  vision  is  disturbed,  and  objects  appear  to  oscillate  or  to 
revolve.  Gatti  reports  the  case  of  a patient  who  while  using  the  soda  salt  remained  blind 
for  about  ten  hours.  Headache  is  not  unusual,  and  may  be  attended  with  slight  excite- 
ment or  with  dulness  and  an  uncertain  gait.  It  is  apt  to  be  accompanied  with  phantasms 
and  violence,  as  in  delirium  tremens.  Difficulty  of  breathing  and  palpitation  of  the  heart 
are  ordinary  effects  of  the  medicine,  and  the  former  symptom  has  been  repeatedly  ob- 
served in  phthisical  patients.  Pulmonary  haemorrhage  has  been  caused  by  it  even  in 
healthy  persons  (Wattelet).  The  large  elimination  of  salicylic  acid  and  its  compounds  by 
the  kidneys  explains  their  various  effects  upon  these  organs.  If  they  are  sound,  and  if 
the  dose  is  not  excessive  or  too  long  continued,  the  urine  either  remains  normal  in  quan- 
tity or  is  more  or  less  increased  ; but  if  the  kidneys  are  diseased  or  the  dose  of  the 
medicine  is  excessive,  the  secretion  diminishes,  vesical  irritation  occurs,  and  albumen, 
and  even  blood,  may  be  found  in  the  urine  (Centralblatt  f Therapie,  i.  527  ; Med.  Record , 
xxv.  12).  The  temperature  may  rise  to  103°  or  104°  F.,  and  typhoid  symptoms  super- 
vene. Sodium  salicylate,  but  still  more  the  uncombined  acid,  acts  as  an  irritant  upon 
mucous  membranes.  It  occasions  a sense  of  rawness  in  the  fauces,  and  even  vesicles  and 
ulcers  there,  nausea,  vomiting,  and  gastric  distress,  and  sometimes  diarrhoea.  Salicylic 
acid  and  its  compounds  occasionally  produce  an  eruption  on  the  skin,  usually  in  the  form 
of  erythema  or  urticaria.  It  is  also  stated  to  have  occasioned  numerous  and  large  pete- 
chiae  and  vibices,  and  even  bullae.  Besides  these  superficial  lesions,  gangrene  has  been 
produced  by  the  medicine,  as  in  cases  seen  by  Wattelet,  Potain,  and  Gubler  in  France; 
while  in  England  it  is  recorded  that  in  a case  of  acute  articular  rheumatism  it  produced 
ecchymosis,  gangrene,  disorganization  of  the  eyes,  and  the  death  of  the  patient  ( Times 
and  Gaz .,  Sept.  1879,  p.  339).  During  the  use  of  salicylic  acid  and  its  compounds  the 
urine  gives  a violent  color  on  the  addition  of  solution  of  perchloride  of  iron.  It  passage 
through  the  system  is  very  rapid,  for  in  a case  of  extrophy  of  the  bladder  its  presence  in 
the  urine  was  demonstrated  in  about  eight  minutes  after  75  grains  of  salicylate  of  sodium 
had  been  taken.  Its  excretion  does  not  cease  for  several  days  after  the  medicine  has 
been  suspended.  Huber  has  shown  that  it  increases  the  elimination  of  solids  as  well  as 
water,  but  only  as  long  as  the  medicine  continues  to  be  given  ( Therap . Gaz.,  xi.  697). 
Chopin  has  confirmed  this  statement  {Bull,  de  Therap .,  cxvi.  119),  and  estimated  that 
about  80  per  cent,  of  the  quantity  taken  passes  through  the  kidneys,  at  least  in  health, 
but  in  obstructive  diseases  of  those  organs  the  proportion  is  greatly  reduced.  Hence 
there  is  a risk  in  employing  it  in  such  diseases.  In  numerous  cases  the  urine  has  appar- 


4 CID  l JM  SALICYLIC  UM. 


91 


ently  responded  to  the  copper  test  for  grape-sugar,  but  the  precipitate  was  found  not  to  be 
cupreous.  Besides  its  elimination  with  the  urine,  it  is  also  excreted  in  a small  propor- 
tion with  the  sweat  and  with  the  serum  of  blisters ; it  is  generally  thought  not  to  be 
discoverable  in  the  saliva,  but  one  observer  (Musy)  found  it  there.  The  experiments  of 
I)rs.  Randolph  and  Dixon  prove  that  salicylic  acid  incorporated  with  oil  or  fat  and  applied 
to  the  skin  is  absorbed  and  eliminated  partly  with  the  urine  (Med.  News,  xlvi.  174). 

The  occasional  toxical  effects  produced  by  salicylic  acid  and  its  compounds  are  partly 
local  and  partly  general,  The  former  consist  mainly  of  the  irritations  already  referred 
to,  but  they  are  by  no  means  usual,  and  often  excessive  doses  are  employed  without 
injury.  Thus  a patient  affected  with  rheumatism  took  6 drachms  of  salicylate  of  sodium 
in  the  course  of  twenty-two  hours  ; he  suffered  no  pain  in  the  stomach,  but,  on  the  con- 
trary, his  appetite  was  improved  (Ewald).  Feltz  reports  the  case  of  a man  who  took 
more  than  6 ounces  of  the  salt  in  one  month.  In  the  last  seventeen  days  the  dose  was 
120  grains  three  times  a day.  The  symptoms  were  chiefly  vomiting  and  headache,  pre- 
ceded by  congestion  of  the  neck,  face,  and  head.  The  pupils  were  contracted.  The 
symptoms  continued  for  seventeen  days  after  the  last  dose  had  been  taken,  and  the  acid 
could  be  detected  in  the  urine  for  sixteen  days.  Chisholm  states  that  a rheumatic 
patient,  after  taking  by  mistake  192  grains  of  the  salt  at  a dose,  experienced  the  usual 
head  symptoms,  vomited,  had  diarrhoea,  and  was  greatly  prostrated.  But  he  was  relieved 
of  his  rheumatism  ( Therap . Gaz .,  x.  125).  But  in  other  cases  the  effects  were  fitted  to 
inspire  anxiety.  Ewald  reports  that  a woman  became  affected  with  alarming  symptoms 
after  using  the  acid  or  its  sodium  salt.  After  a drachm  of  the  latter  there  was  repeat- 
edly observed  delirium  like  that  from  alcohol,  but  frequently  there  is  extreme  jactitation, 
and  even  maniacal  fury  ; also  roaring  in  the  ears,  disorders  of  vision,  and  loss  of  mus- 
cular power  in  the  limbs.  The  last  symptom  sometimes  reaches  the  degree  of  complete 
resolution,  and  the  gastric  disturbance  may  resemble  that  produced  by  a corrosive  poison. 
In  children  it  occurs  most  frequently,  as  well  as  the  prostration  of  the  nervous  system. 
Liirmann  saw  a girl,  aged  20,  after  taking  60  grains  of  salicylate  of  potassium,  seized 
with  a chill,  followed  by  high  fever,  hurried  breathing,  roaring  in  the  ears,  and  oedema 
of  the  arms  and  legs ; and  Baruch  observed  a similar  case.  To  these  Erb  adds  one 
drawn  from  his  own  experience.  A young  man  had  moderate  articular  rheumatism  and 
a slight  heart-murmur.  In  the  course  of  a week  he  had  taken  about  8 drachms  of  the 
salt,  and  the  medicine  was  continued.  A day  or  two  afterward  he  was  seized  with  a 
chill,  followed  by  high  fever,  and  a bright-red  eruption  spread  over  his  face,  neck,  and 
trunk;  on  the  limbs  it  was  in  patches.  The  eyes  and  nostrils  were  brightly  injected, 
and  the  tongue  was  very  red  ( Centralbl.  f Ther .,  ii.  546).  There  is  little  doubt  that  this 
acid,  like  sodium  salicylate,  may  occasion  uterine  haemorrhage  and  even  abortion 
( Therap . Gaz.,  xiv.  72).  Epistaxis  has  also  been  attributed  to  it  (ibid.,  xiii.  427).  In 
a case  of  acute  articular  rheumatism  a rapid  cure  appeared  about  to  take  place,  when, 
besides  buzzing  in  the  ears  and  profuse  sweats,  extreme  prostration  came  on,  and  the 
patient  died  suddenly  on  .sitting  up  to  eat  (Empis).  Jaccoud  soon  afterward  reported 
three  cases  of  sudden  death  in  young  rheumatic  patients  treated  by  this  medicine  in 
doses  not  exceeding  150  grains  a day;  and  Goodhart  one  in  which  death  followed  the 
use  of  four  doses  of  15  grains  each,  given  at  intervals  of  three  hours  (Times  and  Gaz., 
Jan.  1880,  p.  105).  Lahalle  (Thesis  cited)  ventured  to  say  that  although  the  avowed 
number  of  fatal  cases  in  France  is  considerable,  yet  probably  others  have  occurred  that 
have  not  been  published.  In  the  cases  now  referred  to  the  phenomena  seem  to  have  been 
due  to  a derangement  of  the  nervous  system,  but  there  have  been  others  in  which  the 
heart  was  affected  or  the  lungs  ; in  the  latter  the  symptoms  were  those  of  asphyxia.  In 
another  case,  a girl  of  15  took  by  mistake  7 drachms  of  salicylate  of  sodium  within  a 
few  hours;  besides  the  symptoms  already  mentioned  she  had  dilated  pupils,  impaired 
vision,  and  strabismus,  and  became  melancholic.  Red  spots  appeared  transiently  on  the 
skin  ; there  was  vomiting,  but  no  diarrhoea  ; the  urine  contained  albumen  (Peterson). 
It  sometimes  contains  blood  or  casts.  Abelin  states  that  acute  nephritis  may  occur  dur- 
ing the  use  of  the  medicine.  It  follows  from  the  above  that  salicylic  acid,  and  in  a less 
degree  its  salts,  should  not  be  given  in  large  doses  to  persons  having  a weak  heart  or  who 
are  otherwise  greatly  debilitated,  or,  at  least,  not  without  counteracting  their  toxical  tend- 
encies with  nutrients  and  diffusible  stimulants.  Some  of  these  toxical  effects  have  been 
attributed  to  an  impurity  in  the  manufactured  acid  (Therap.  Gaz.,  xiv.  343). 

If  salicylic  acid  and  its  compounds  are  curative  of  any.  disease,  it  is  of  acute  articular 
rheumatism.  That  it  reduces  the  pulse-rate,  and  in  a much  greater  degree  the 
temperature  (from  103°  F.  to  98°  F.),  the  latter  in  nearly  all  cases,  there  is  no  doubt. 


92 


ACWUM  SALICYLICUM. 


Whether  it  removes  the  disease  as  well  as,  or  better  than,  some  other  remedies  is  not 
quite  so  certain.  For  acute  articular  rheumatism  is  a general  disease,  in  which  not  only 
the  joint  but  several  internal  organs,  and  especially  the  heart,  are  apt  to  be  involved% 
Now,  it  is  on  all  hands  admitted  that  salicylic  acid  and  its  compounds  neither  exert  any 
preventive  influence  on  the  complications  nor  prevent  relapses ; and  some  even  go  so  far 
as  to  maintain  that  their  development  or  occurrence  is  favored  by  those  medicines.  This 
opinion  is  probably  due  in  part  to  the  rapid  relief  obtained  in  many  cases  from  pain 
and  fever  and  the  imprudent  exposure  which  is  apt  to  follow.  It  is  very  certain  that 
when  complications  occur  the  medicines  in  question  exert  no  control  over  them.  Not 
only  so,  but  heart  affections  may  arise  while  the  patient  is  under  their  fullest  influence. 
It  is  therefore  altogether  probable  that  they  have  no  antirheumatic  virtues,  and  that 
they  relieve  inflammatory  rheumatism  merely  by  repressing  two  of  its  symptoms,  very 
much  as  quinine  and  aconite  and  veratrum  and  opium  may  do.  In  a series  of  over  one 
hundred  cases  of  rheumatism  the  average  time  during  which  the  acid  was  administered 
was  a little  over  6 days,  the  extremes  being  1 to  31  days.  The  average  quantity  of  sali- 
cylic acid  taken  by  each  patient  was  about  400  grains.  This  result  does  not  bear  out  the 
claim  of  the  medicine  to  be  a specific  remedy  for  the  disease  in  question.  Moreover,  the 
antifebrile  influence  of  the  medicine  is  not  specific,  for  in  certain  cases  of  hyperpyrexia 
occurring  in  rheumatism  it  not  only  failed  to  reduce  the  temperature,  but  during  its 
use  the  temperature  rose  from  101°  to  107°.  It  would  be  unfair,  in  presenting  a sum- 
mary of  this  subject,  to  withhold  the  positive  declarations  of  some  of  the  most  com- 
petent advocates  of  the  medicine.  Dr.  Broadbent  said  : “ I have  yet  to  see  the  case  of 
genuine  acute  rheumatism  without  complication  in  which  the  pain  is  not  entirely  gone 
and  the  temperature  normal  after  six  consecutive  doses  of  20  grains  at  intervals  of  an  hour 
on  two  successive  days.”  Mr.  Sharkey  remarked  : “ One  must,  I think,  allow  that  its 
discovery  as  a cure  for  acute  rheumatism  is  a triumph  of  empirical  therapeutics  which 
has  probably  had  but  few  parallels  in  the  history  of  medicine.”  Dr.  Fraser,  comparing 
316  cases  treated  with  alkalies,  lime-juice,  etc.  with  305  cases  treated  with  salicylate  of 
sodium,  found  that  in  the  former  series  the  average  duration  of  pain  was  17.2  days,  and 
of  illness  in  the  hospital  22.6  days ; while  in  the  latter  series  the  pain  lasted,  on  an 
average,  2.92  days,  and  the  hospital  residence  was  9.58  days  ( Edinb . Med.  Jour.,  xxxi.  2). 
He  expressly  excepts  from  the  computation  all  cases  of  so-called  gonorrhoeal  rheumatism, 
which  is  not  amenable  to  the  medicine  ; nor  are  any  cases  “ associated  with  a discharge 
from  the  genito-urinary  mucous  surface”  included.  Dr.  Bristowe  holds  a similar  opinion. 
Dr.  Jacob  gave,  as  a result  of  its  use  in  150  cases,  the  recovery  of  103  within  three  days. 
More  or  less  analogous  results  have  been  obtained  in  Germany  by  Traube,  Strieker,  B'alz, 
Lebert,  and  others,  and,  according  to  Dr.  Ackland,  out  of  nearly  425  cases  only  21  deaths 
occurred.  In  France,  See  declared  that  “ we  may  promise  with  almost  certainty  the  cure 
of  febrile  or  apyretic  acute  rheumatism  in  from  two  to  four  days.”  Like  other  physi- 
cians, Blachez  (1878)  met  with  cases  in  which,  under  this  medicine,  the  pains  ceased  “in 
from  thirty-six  to  forty-eight  hours.”  But  he  cautioned  against  suspending  its  adminis- 
tration when  the  pains  subside,  and  insisted  that  relapses  are  common,  although  not  severe. 
On  the  other  hand,  Gueneau  de  Mussy  expressed  a general  dissent  from  these  conclu- 
sions ; and  that  eminent  clinician,  Jaccoud,  while  admitting  that  in  febrile  articular  rheu- 
matism, unaccompanied  by  any  complication,  it  produces  a cure  more  rapidly  than  any 
other  medicine,  denied  that  a uniform  duration  can  be  assigned  to  the  treatment,  or  that 
it  tends  at  all  to  prevent  or  modify  complications;  and  he  held  that  when  these  exist  the 
medicine  ceases  to  influence  the  rheumatic  element  of  the  attack.  So,  too,  Dr.  V.  Y. 
Bowditch  (1879)  concluded  from  a series  of  records  that  the  medicine  is  not  a specific, 
yet  that  in  acute  cases,  if  used  at  the  outset  of  the  disease,  pushed  vigorously,  and  not 
abruptly  suspended,  “ the  most  satisfactory  results  may  be  obtained.”  In  1879  and 
1880,  Drs.  Andrew  Clark  and  R.  Southey  fully  corroborated  the  judgment  of  Jaccoud, 
the  latter  by  analysis  of  51  cases  (St.  Bart's  Hosp.  Rep.,  xv.  6).  Findlay  and  Lucas,  by 
a like  study  of  158  typical  cases,  in  60  of  which  the  salicylous  treatment  was  used,  in 
60  the  alkaline,  and  in  38  a combination  of  alkalies  and  quinine,  found  that  although  the 
duration  of  the  primary  attack  was  rendered  shorter  by  the  first-named  than  by  the  other 
methods,  yet  it  was  attended  with  far  more  cardiac  complications,  relapses  three  times  as 
frequently,  and  a more  usual  return  of  pain  without  pyrexia  ( Lancet , Sept.  20,  1879). 
Dr.  Greenhow  concluded,  from  a careful  analysis  of  50  recorded  cases,  that  although  the 
pain  and  distress  of  the  patient  are  undoubtedly  assuaged,  for  a time,  by  the  salicylate 
of  sodium,  the  duration  of  his  illness  is  not  shortened,  neither  is  his  recovery  as  rapid  as 
under  other  modes  of  treatment.  He  moreover  called  attention  to  the  marked  weaken- 
ing of  the  first  sound  of  the  heart  observed  in  so  many  cases,  and  suggested  its  immediate 


A CID  UM  SA LICYLTCUM. 


93 


danger,  as  well  as  its  remoter  significance,  as  showing  a degenerative  influence  on  the 
structure  of  that  organ  (Clin.  Soc.  Trans.,  xiii.  346).  With  clinical  results  so  ample  and 
positive  on  record  (consult,  further,  “ Summary  ” in  Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  April, 
1882,  p.  315  ; Epliemeris , i.  56;  Brit.  Med.  Jour.,  Feb.  25,  1888)  one  is  obliged  to  regret 
the  errors  of  statements  like  those  first  quoted,  and  of  such  as  these,  that  “ by  the  brev- 
ity of  the  febrile  condition  the  chances  of  the  occurrence  of  cardiac  complications  are 
immensely  diminished  ” (Moore),  or  that  the  medicine  “ immensely  lessens  the  chances 
of  heart  disease  or  other  complication  ” (Paul).  As  we  have  seen,  the  heart-compli- 
cations form  a special  danger  of  the  salicylous  method  of  treatment.  On  the  whole,  it 
may  be  concluded  that  this  method  is  antipyretic  and  analgesic,  rather  than  antirheu- 
matic. That  in  certain  cases  it  should  have  appeared  to  be  “ prompt  and  decisive,”  or  to 
have  “ acted  like  a charm,”  or  to  be  “ the  only  radical  remedy  for  acute  rheumatism,” 
leaves  out  of  view  entirely  the  natural  history  of  the  disease,  which  in  thousands  of 
cases  runs  its  course  to  cure  within  a week  without  any  specific  treatment.  It  also  over- 
looks the  well-known  clinical  fact  that  in  one  form  the  disease  advances  steadily  toward 
cure,  and  in  another  is  broken  up  into  a succession  of  remissions  and  relapses.  The 
observation  of  Marrot,  that  under  the  administration  of  sodium  salicylate  the  excretion  of 
urea  and  uric  acid,  which  is  so  excessive  in  articular  rheumatism,  immediately  declined, 
and  the  proportion  of  water  was  greatly  augmented,  suggests  that  the  sodium  base  of 
the  medicine  had  a share  in  this  result.  The  treatment  by  salicylic  acid  may  be  com- 
pared to  that  by  opium,  which  was  once  in  vogue,  and  which  was  vaunted  to  control  the 
pain  and  fever  of  rheumatism,  but,  as  was  soon  discovered,  at  the  expense  of  the  heart’s 
integrity.  It  is  useless  in  chronic  rheumatism. 

A case  of  rheumatic  tetanus  is  alleged  to  have  been  cured  by  salicylic  acid.  Accord- 
ing to  Abadie,  salicylate  of  sodium  greatly  excels  all  other  medicines  in  the  rapidity  of 
the  cure  of  rheumatic  irido-choroiditis  and  sclerotitis.  He  recommended  the  dose  of  15 
grains  four  times  a day  (Bull,  de  Therap .,  xcvii.  385).  In  gout  Barclay  (1878)  claimed 
that  it  was  second  in  value  to  colchicum  alone,  and  the  salicylates  were  said  by  See  to 
display  even  more  wonderful  powers  than  in  rheumatism,  and  to  promptly  arrest  even  the 
most  painful  paroxysms,  as  well  as  to  prevent  relapse  and  promote  the  removal  of  topha- 
ceous deposits.  Apparently,  other  physicians — Murchison,  for  example — have  been  less 
fortunate,  for  their  results  prove  nothing  in  its  favor. 

If  we  cannot  say  that  authors  are  unanimous  in  asserting  the  uselessness  of  salicylic  acid 
in  intermittent  fever,  we  can  at  least  declare  that  there  is  no  proof  of  its  utility,  either  by 
authority  or  by  demonstration.  In  this  case  is  presented  an  apt  illustration  of  the  error  of 
deducing  the  therapeutical  uses  of  a medicine  from  its  apparent  physiological  action  ; for  this 
acid  and  its  compounds,  whose  physiological  operation  seems  so  closely  to  resemble  that 
of  quinine,  is  powerless  to  cure  the  disease  for  which  quinine  is  a specific  remedy. 
Salicylate  of  quinine  has  been  recommended  as  an  antiperiodic  medicine,  and  doubtless 
it  is  so  far  as  it  contains  quinine.  In  scarlatina  salicylic  acid  neither  mitigates  the 
disease  nor  tends  to  prevent  its  complications  or  sequelae,  although  it  is  alleged  to  have 
done  both.  As  to  typhoid  fever,  in  which  a full  trial  of  the  medicine  has  been  made,  the 
general  result  appears  to  be  that  it  does  not  improve  the  typhoid  state,  nor  reduce  the 
splenic  swelling,  nor  diminish  the  stools  nor  alter  their  qualities,  nor  lessen  the  customary 
debility  and  emaciation,  nor  improve  the  patient’s  feelings,  nor  shorten  the  attack,  nor 
lessen  the  mortality  of  the  disease.  On  the  other  hand,  it  is  charged  with  causing  haem- 
orrhage from  the  bowels.  Reporters  are  not  agreed  even  as  to  its  influence  upon  the 
pulse  and  temperature,  and  some  among  them  charge  that  it  excites  or  exaggerates 
delirium,  and  produces  nausea,  prostration,  albuminuria,  and  even  suppression  of  urine 
(See  ; Murchison).  These  conclusions  have  been  substantially  confirmed  by  Filatow  and 
by  Weiss  (1880),  and  no  doubt  remains  of  the  inefficacy  of  this  medicine,  as  of  all 
others,  in  controlling  typhoid  fever.  In  intermittent  fever,  like  many  other  agents,  it 
may,  as  already  stated,  prevent  or  mitigate  a paroxysm,  but  it  has  no  influence  on  the 
disease.  The  medicine  has  been  used  in  relapsing  fever,  with  the  alleged  effect  of  lessen- 
ing the  duration  and  severity  of  the  relapse  (Reiss,  1880)  ; but  as  in  one  case  the  patient 
died  with  cerebral  symptoms,  a very  rare  occurrence  in  the  disease,  the  share  of  the 
medicine  in  the  catastrophe  is  open  to  suspicion.  A claim,  without  sufficient  support, 
has  been  made  for  the  efficacy  of  the  medicine  in  epidemic  meningitis.  Dr.  Bowyer 
claims  that  about  3 grains  of  salicylic  acid  every  six  hours  aborts  the  eruption  of  small- 
pox / (Practitioner,  xxvi.  456)  ; another  reporter  states  that  it  is  peculiarly  efficacious, 
topically  and  internally,  in  erysipelas  (Amer.  Jour,  of  Med.  Sci.,  Jan.  1882,  p.  255);  and 
a third,  that  it  is  a prophylactic  against  yellow  fever ! 


94 


ACIDUM  SALICYLICUM. 


In  acute  inflammations  the  evidence  respecting  the  medicine  in  question  is  very  contra- 
dictory ; for  while,  on  the  one  hand,  they  are  affirmed  to  he  “ wholly  uninfluenced  by  it,” 
that  it  does  “ not  in  the  least  degree  prevent  the  supervention  of  fresh  inflammation,”  and 
that,  “ while  it  reduces  the  temperature,  it  does  not  in  the  least  modify  the  local  pro- 
cesses,” it  is  alleged,  on  the  other  hand,  to  be  the  “ surest  antiphlogistic.”  It  is  true 
that  the  latter  judgment  is  qualified  by  the  statement  that  it  even  -‘excels  quinine;” 
which  is  quite  conceivable,  since  it  is  now  well  settled  that  there  is  no  constant  relation 
between  the  reduction  of  the  pulse  in  febrile  affections  and  the  cure  of  the  disease  which 
renders  the  pulse  frequent.  In  regard  to  diphtheria , while  one  reports  that  in  thirty-one 
cases  it  was  “ uniformly  curative,”  and  another  that  it  “ modifies  favorably  the  exuda- 
tion,” and  a third  that  it  also  “ arrests  the  fever,”  a fourth  (Abelin)  “ derived  none  of  the 
advantages  from  its  use  which  various  physicians  ascribe  to  it,  and  found  that,  except  in 
reducing  the  temperature  and  the  pulse-rate,  its  results  were  entirely  negative,  or  else 
that  it  irritated  the  throat  and  occasioned  diarrhoea,  albuminuria,  or  congestion  of  the 
lungs ; and  See  could  discern  no  appreciable  influence  exerted  by  it  on  the  disease,  the 
more  so  because,  while  one  experimenter  declares  that  only  salicylic  acid  in  substance  is 
competent  to  arrest  the  development  of  certain  disease-germs  (Samter,  Ceytralbl.  f Med., 
vi.  376  ; U E 'spine , Med.  News,  liv.  520),  and  a practitioner  so  treats  nasal  diphtheria 
{Med.  Record , xxx.  435),  another  declares  that  a solution  of  1 : 350  is  very  serviceable 
(. Practitioner , xli.  138).  On  the  whole,  there  is  no  ground  whatever  for  believing  in  its 
efficacy.  Even  in  th'e  case  of  aphthae . which  some  declare  that  it  causes  to  heal  rapidly, 
and  of  thrush , for  which  it  has  been  vaunted  as  a specific,  others  allege  that  it  is  neither 
better  nor  worse  than  chlorate  of  potassium  or  than  alkaline  solutions  in  general.  Enemas 
containing  1 part  of  the  acid  to  300  parts  of  water,  with  a little  alcohol  to  perfect  solu- 
tion, are  said  to  lessen  the  frequency,  correct  the  fetor,  and  improve  the  quality  of  the 
stools  in  dysentery.  Salicylic  acid  and  its  compounds  may  be  added  to  the  number  of 
agents  that  tend  to  prevent  putrefactive  fermentation  and  flatulence  in  the  digestive  canal, 
and  hence  to  counteract  the  crapulous  diarrhoea  which  attends  this  state.  It  has  been 
proposed  as  a prophylactic  against  cholera.  Ridder  (1879)  and  Tlyin  (1880)  have 
reported  the  expulsion  of  tsenise,  by  salicylic  acid.  A purgative  dose  of  castor  oil  was 
given,  the  patient  kept  on  low  diet  for  twenty-four  hours,  and  a second  dose  of  oil  admin- 
istered, followed  by  one  of  12  grains  of  the  acid,  which  was  repeated  hourly  until  60 
grains  had  been  taken.  Finally,  half  an  hour  later  another  half  ounce  of  castor  oil  was 
given.  The  method  is  not  recommended  by  its  simplicity  or  its  pleasantness.  Experi- 
ence has  not  determined  its  value.  The  medicine  has  been  used  in  the  hectic  fever  of 
phthisis , because  it  is  capable  of  reducing  the  temperature,  without  regard  to  the  serious 
injury  it  causes  by  deranging  the  digestion  and  its  absolute  nullity  as  a palliative  of  any 
symptom  peculiar  to  pulmonary  consumption.  Very  probably  it  may  be  profitable  in 
correcting  the  fetor  of  the  breath  in  certain  cases  of  this  disease  ; for  it  does  so  in  fetid 
bronchitis , and  even  in  gangrene  of  the  lung , when  administered  by  the  stomach,  and  still 
better  when  inhaled  from  an  atomized  solution.  Sachse  recommends  a solution  of  2 
parts  of  borax,  24  parts  of  salicylic  acid,  and  100  or  150  parts  of  hot  water  for  an  inha- 
lation in  ulcerating  phthisis.  It  is  scarcely  necessary  to  say  that  as  a stimulant  and 
deodorizing  agent  this  mixture,  if  useful  at  all,  is  not  so  through  the  salicylic  acid  only 
which  it  contains.  V.  Toeplitz  has  vaunted  the  application  of  this  acid  to  the  larynx  in 
whooping  cough.  Various  stimulants  and  irritants  have  been  used  for  the  same  purpose, 
including  nitric  acid,  nitrate  of  silver,  ammonia,  etc.,  but  have  obtained  little  permanent 
credit.  It  has  been  found  efficient  in  preventing  the  development  of  acute  coryza  when 
given  in  doses  of  from  20  to  40  grains,  and  also  in  mitigating  the  symptoms  of  hay  fever 
and  of  influenza.  It  has  been  thought  to  moderate  the  pain  of  lumbago.  In  neuralgia 
of  a periodical  type,  and  not  amenable  to  quinine,  it  is  said  to  have  been  very  efficient 
in  doses  of  from  20  to  40  grains,  given  every  hour  for  three  or  four  hours.  Abbott 
(1879)  has  reported  several  cases  of  sciatica  and  of  trifacial  neuralgia  in  which  its  effects 
were  prompt  and  permanent,  and  Labbe  still  others  (1881),  but  he  was  of  opinion  that 
the  medicine  is  only  useful  in  cases  of  rheumatic  neuralgia.  Others  regard  its  effects  as 
very  uncertain,  and  large  doses  of  sodium  salicylate  as  unsafe  (Dujardin-Beaumetz). 
Neuralgic  headache  may  frequently  be  controlled  by  this  medicine  given  in  doses  of  5 to 
10  grains  at  intervals  of  an  hour  or  less,  and  in  like  manner  the  neuralgic  pains  of 
herpes  zoster.  One  or  two  cases  of  chorea  of  rheumatic  origin  appear  to  have  been  cured 
by  this  medicine.  Schaetzke  in  1879  published  three  cases  of  the  rapid  cure  of  diabetes 
by  salicylic  acid,  given  in  doses  of  from  15  to  30  grains  three  times  a day,  and  Sawyer  (1881) 
three  others  with  nearly  as  favorable  an  issue  in  which  sodium  salicylate  was  associated 


A Cl  I)  UM  SA  LICYLCICUM. 


95 


with  laudanum.  In  1885,  Dr.  Yarrow  reported  four  cases  in  which  the  diabetes  seemed 
to  be  entirely  controlled  by  this  medicine  ( Therap.  Gaz .,  ix.  446)  ; and  in  the  following 
year  Dr.  Holden  opined  that  it  was  beneficial  only  in  cases  of  rheumatic  origin  (Edinb. 
Med.  Jour.,  xxxii.  79).  Dr.  Holden  prescribed  the  following  mixture  : K.  Salicylic  acid, 
gij  ; Sodium  bicarbonate,  gij  ; Ammonium  carbonate,  £j  ; Water  fHy.  When  the  efferves- 
cence has  subsided  add  water  to  fgxij.  Sig.  From  one  to  two  tablespoonfuls  three  times 
a day. 

As  a topical  remedy  salicylic  acid  has  been  employed  in  a powder  mixed  with  silicate 
of  magnesia  (1  : 10),  with  which  the  skin  is  dusted  to  prevent  night-sweats ; and  a 
powder  made  with  1 part  of  the  acid  to  6 or  8 of  burnt  alum,  or  with  5 parts  of  starch, 
has  been  found  efficient  in  correcting  fetid  sweating  of  the  feet  when  freely  applied  several 
times  a day  to  the  part,  previously  washed  with  soapsuds  and  wiped  very  dry.  It  is  said 
that  in  the  Russian  and  Italian  armies  a powder  is  used  to  prevent  sweating  and  chafing 
of  the  feet , which  is  composed  of  salicylic  acid  3 parts,  starch  10  parts,  and  powered  talc 
87  parts.  A 1 percent,  mixture  of  the  acid  with  tallow  has  been  employed  for  the  same 
purpose.  An  alcoholic  solution  of  this  acid  (1  : 16)  is  recommended  for  removing  the  scales 
of  psoriasis , for  the  treatment  of  chloasma  and  freckles , and  as  an  antipruritic  remedy. 
A solution  of  1 part  of  the  acid  in  6 of  glycerin  has  been  found  an  efficient  application 
to  ulcerating  lupus.  Plasters  containing  salicylic  acid  have  been  used  with  great  advan- 
tage to  soften  and  remove  various  forms  of  epidermal  thickening,  including  corns , icarts, 
etc.  A plaster  especially  recommended  is  composed  of  the  acid  incorporated  with  gutta- 
percha. Collodion  has  also  been  used  as  an  excipient  for  the  acid.  Under  the  name  of 
“ plaster-mull  ” Unna  has  introduced  into  the  treatment  of  lupus  mixtures  of  salicylic 
acid  and  creasote  of  various  strengths,  mixed  with  some  adhesive  substance,  and  spread 
upon  thin  sheets  of  gutta-percha.  The  combination  cauterizes  the  morbid  nodules,  and 
finally  causes  them  to  be  discharged.  Pain  is  mitigated  or  prevented  by  cocaine. 
(Compare  Med.  News , xlix.  437  ; Therap.  Gaz.,  x.  760.)  An  ointment  recommended 
by  Hager  as  an  innocent  cure  for  scalledhead  ( favus  tinea  tonsurans')  and  an  exterminator 
and  preventive  of  lice  is  made  by  reducing  salicylic  acid  10.0  Gm.  and  borax  3.3  to  a 
fine  powder,  adding  yellow  wax  50.0  and  lard  250  Gm.,  previously  melted  together  and 
colored  with  alkanet,  balsam  of  Peru  10  Gm.,  oil  of  bergamot  50  drops,  oil  of  star-anise 
20  drops,  and  rose-water  Gm.  30,  and  stirring  until  the  ointment  solidifies.  Eczema  and 
intertrigo  may  be  cured  by  a 4 per  cent,  ointment  of  this  acid.  A lotion  made  with  1 
grain  of  the  acid  to  an  ounce  of  water  has  removed  the  eruption  and  ulcers  that  some- 
times are  produced  by  bromide  of  potassium.  Three  cases  of  urticaria  are  recorded 
which  were  cured  by  about  20  grains  of  salicylate  of  sodium  three  times  a day.  The 
following  mixture  has  been  recommended  in  ozsena : Borax  ^iij  ; salicylic  acid  gij  ; 
glycerin  giiss ; water  to  giij  : 1 or  2 drachms  of  this  mixture  to  half  a pint  of  water 
may  be  used  as  a nasal  douche  and  as  a gargle.  As  an  external  application  the  acid  has 
also  been  a good  deal  used  in  dressing  tvounds  and  ulcers,  and  especially  such  as  tend  to 
gangrene.  Sometimes  it  is  applied  as  a fine  powder,  sometimes  in  a 1 per  cent,  solution. 
Indeed,  a claim  has  been  made  that  it  is  a perfect  substitute  for  carbolic  acid,  over  which 
it  has  the  advantage  of  being  inodorous,  unirritating,  and,  when  absorbed,  not  poisonous. 
It  is,  however,  very  irritating  unless  in  a weak  solution.  Its  somewhat  styptic  qualities 
have  caused  it  to  be  used  topically  in  uterine  catarrh,  leucorrhoea , and  chronic  dysentery, 
and  even  to  arrest  slight  haemorrhages.  A salicylate  of  iron  has  been  employed  for  like 
purposes.  A saturated  solution  of  the  acid  applied  on  a tampon  of  carbolized  cotton- 
wool has  been  used  with  alleged  efficiency  in  menorrhagia  and  in  bleeding  cancer  of  the 
iderus  (Med.  News,  liii.  300).  Pedieuli  are  said  to  be  destroyed  by  a solution  composed 
of  salicylic  acid  2 or  3 parts,  vinegar  25  parts,  and  alcohol  75  parts,  and  applied  on  a 
flannel  cloth  with  friction  (Med.  News,  li.  425).  The  acid  has  been  applied  with  alleged 
advantage  to  soft  chancres.  Salicylate  of  lime  has  been  particularly  recommended  for 
chancres  and  syphilitic  sores  (Am.  Jour.  Med.  Sci.,  July,  1880, 'p.  286).  An  ointment 
made  with  vaseline,  and  containing  from  2 to  4 per  cent,  of  salicylic  acid,  is  recommended 
by  Lassar  as  the  best  of  all  applications  in  eczema.  If  this  ointment  is  found  to  be  too 
soft,  it  can  be  stiffened  with  oxide  of  zinc  (Centralbl  f Ther .,  i.  389).  Given  by  the 
mouth  or  rectum,  the  acid  tends  to  diminish  fetor  of  the  stools  in  diarrhoea  and  dysentery. 
It  has  been  used  to  deodorize  various  decomposing  substances,  and  amongst  them  the 
bodies  of  the  dead.  For  this  purpose  a powder  composed  of  salicylic  acid  and  some 
moist  substance,  such  as  talc,  has  been  employed.  The  addition  of  salicylic  acid  to 
vegetable  infusions,  solutions  of  bromide  of  potassium,  quinine,  atropine,  morphine,  etc. 
prevents  the  formation  in  them  of  fungous  growths.  Dr.  J.  G.  Richardson  recommends 


96 


ACIDTJM  STEARICUM. 


for  hypodermic  injection  the  following  solution  of  morphine : R.  Morphinae  acet.  vel 
sulph.  gr.  xvj  ; Acid,  acetic.  (No.  8)  gtt.  ij  ; Acid,  salicylic,  gr.  iss  ; Aquae  destillat.  fgj. 
If,  on  standing  in  a conical  glass,  any  sediment  is  observed,  the  clear  liquid  should  be 
decanted. 

It  is  probable  that  salicin,  salicylic  acid,  and  salicylate  of  sodium  are  equally  active 
physiologically,  but  the  sodium  salt  is  more  suitable  for  certain  diseases,  and  especially 
for  inflammatory  rheumatism.  Salicin,  although  not  very  soluble,  may  be  given  in 
water  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.60-2.60  (gr.  x-xl),  and  salicylic  acid  in  wafers  and  in 
similar  doses.  It  is  better,  except  in  acute  articular  rheumatism,  to  give  the  smaller 
dose  and  repeat  it  frequently  than  to  administer  a full  dose  at  once.  These  substances 
may  also  be  administered  in  powdered  liquorice  extracts. 

Various  formulae  for  administering  salicylic  acid  are  really  solutions  of  its  salts:  e.  g. 
R.  Salicylic  acid  120  grs. ; Solution  of  acetate  of  ammonium  fgij  ; Water  f^vj. — M. 
Each  fluidounce  contains  15  grs.  of  the  salt.  Or,  R.  Salicylic  acid  100  grs.;  Borax  80 
grs.;  Water  f^xvj. — M.  Or,  R.  Salicylic  acid  120  grs.;  Borax  60  grs.;  Glycerin  q.  s. 
Mix  the  acid  and  borax  with  i'^iv  of  glycerin,  heat  until  solution  is  complete,  and  add 
glycerin  to  make  the  whole  measure  fj§j.  It  contains  25  per  cent,  of  the  acid.  Or, 
again  : R.  Peppermint-water,  f§iv  ; Acetate  of  potassium,  giss  ; Salicylic  ac.,  ^ss  ; Lemon 
syrup,  f^ij.  Dissolve  the  acetate  of  potassium  in  the  peppermint- water,  introduce  the 
acid  gradually  with  agitation  until  dissolved,  and  then  add  the  syrup.  Of  this  solution 
each  dessertspoonful  contains  10  grains  of  salicylic  acid,  free  or  combined.  For  external 
use  a solution  of  1 part  of  the  acid  in  300  parts  of  water  is  recommended.  Cotton  satu- 
rated with  a hot  solution  of  the  acid,  from  3 to  10  per  cent,  strong,  and  properly  dried, 
has  been  used  as  a surgical  dressing. 

Salicylate  of  Calcium  has  been  stated  on  very  insufficient  evidence  to  be  useful  in 
the  intestinal  disorders  of  children. 

ACIDUM  STEARICUM,  U.  8.— Stearic  Acid. 

Acide  stearique , Fr.  ; Stearinsaure , G. 

Formula  HC18H3502.  Molecular  weight  283.38. 

Origin. — Stearic  acid  occurs  widely  diffused  throughout  the  animal  kingdom,  com- 
bined with  glycerin  in  the  form  of  stearin  (glyceryl  tristearate),  and  constitutes  the  bulk  of 
the  more  solid  fats,  such  as  suet  and  tallow.  It  is  also  found  in  many  vegetable  fats, 
notably  in  palm  oil. 

Preparation. — When  tallow  and  similar  fats  are  saponified  by  boiling  with  soda- 
lye,  the  stearin  is  decomposed,  sodium  stearate  being  formed  with  liberation  of  glycerin  ; 
thus  C3H5(C18H3502)3  + 3NaOH  = C3H5(OH)3  4-  3NaC18H3502.  The  soap  formed  is 
decomposed  by  heating  with  water  and  sulphuric  or  hydrochloric  acid ; by  this  means 
the  fatty  acids  are  set  free,  and  will  float  on  the  aqueous  liquid,  whence  they  are  removed 
and  purified  by  solution  in  hot  alcohol.  Upon  cooling,  stearic  acid  will  separate,  while 
oleic  acid  remains  in  solution.  Stearic  acid  is  obtained  on  a large  scale  in  the  manufac- 
ture of  candles,  either  by  the  foregoing  process  or  by  treating  the  fats  with  sulphuric 
acid  and  superheated  steam,  the  latter  decomposing  the  fatty  compounds  readily  ; the 
glycerin  enters  into  solution  in  the  condensed  water,  the  acids  floating  on  top. 

Properties. — Pure  stearic  acid  occurs  in  white  glistening  needles  or  leaflets,  is  odor- 
less and  tasteless,  and  does  not  appear  greasy  to  the  touch.  It  dissolves  in  all  propor- 
tions in  boiling  alcohol  and  ether,  from  which  it  separates  on  cooling.  It  melts  at  69.4° 
C.  (157°  F.)  to  a colorless  oil,  which  on  cooling  solidifies  to  a white  crystalline  mass.  The 
commercial  acid  should  have  a melting-point  not  lower  than  56°  C.  (132.8°  F.),  and  on 
cooling  should  congeal  at  54°  C.  (129.2°  F.)  It  is  soluble  in  45  parts  of  alcohol  at  15° 
C.  (59°  F.).  The  presence  of  undecomposed  fat  is  ascertained  by  boiling  1 Gm.  of  the 
acid  with  an  equal  weight  of  sodium  carbonate  in  30  Cc.  of  water  ; the  resulting  solution 
while  hot  should  not  be  more  than  faintly  opalescent. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Stearic  acid  is  used  in  the  manufacture  of  glycerin  sup- 
positories, where  it  is  combined  with  sodium  carbonate  to  give  body  to  the  mass. 

ACIDUM  SUCCINICUM.— Succinic  Acid. 

Sal  succini  volatile. — Acide  succinique , Fr.;  Bernsteinsaure , G.;  Acido  succinico , F.  It.,  Sp. 

Formula  H2C4H404  = (CH2)2.(COOH)2.  Molecular  weight  117.72. 

Origin. — Succinic  acid  exists  in  amber,  in  unripe  grapes,  in  different  species  of  Lac- 


ACIDUM  SUCCINICUM. 


97 


tuca,  Artemisia,  and  other  plants,  and  in  many  animal  liquids.  It  is  formed  in  the  oxida- 
tion of  wax,  spermaceti,  butyric,  stearic,  and  some  other  fatty  acids ; of  valerianic  acid, 
benzoic  acid,  and  other  organic  compounds;  in  the  vinous  fermentation  of  sugar;  by  the 
deoxidation  or  under  the  influence  of  casein  as  a ferment  from  asparagin,  tartrates, 
malates,  aconitates,  fumarates,  etc.  It  was  observed  by  Agricola  (1550),  and  recognized 
as  an  acid  by  Lemery  (1675). 

Preparation. — For  medicinal  use,  succinic  acid  is  prepared  by  the  dry  distillation 
of  coarsely-powdered  amber  from  a glass  retort,  which  is  entirely  imbedded  in  sand  and 
the  short  neck  of  which  is  connected  with  a large  receiver.  The  heat  is  gradually 
increased  to  about  280°  C.  (536°  F.),  and  kept  at  this  temperature  as  long  as  white 
vapors  are  evolved.  The  distillate  consists  of  succinic  acid  crystallized  in  the  neck  of 
the  retort,  while  the  receiver  contains  oil  of  amber  and  an  aqueous  liquid  which,  accord- 
ing to  Marsson  (1850),  contains,  besides  succinic  acid,  also  acetic,  propionic,  butyric, 
valerianic,  and  caprionic  acids.  On  concentrating  this  solution  more  succinic  acid  is 
obtained.  (See  Oleum  succini.) 

Properties. — The  impure  acid  is  in  yellowish  or  brownish  prismatic  crystals,  which 
have  the  odor  of  oil  of  amber  and  an  acid,  empyreumatic  taste.  It  begins  to  volatilize 
at  100°  C.  (212°  F.),  fuses  between  160°  and  180°  C.  (320°  and  356°  F.),  and  boils  at 
23.5°  C.  (455°  F.),  giving  off  acrid  vapors,  dissolves  in  2 parts  of  boiling  and  28  parts 
of  cold  water,  and  is  freely  soluble  in  warm  alcohol,  slightly  in  ether,  and  insoluble  in 
oil  of  turpentine.  The  pure  acid  is  inodorous,  is  scarcely  affected  by  oxidizing  agents, 
and  by  fusing  potassa  is  converted  into  oxalic  acid.  With  the  alkalies  and  magnesia  it 
forms  salts  which  are  readily  soluble  in  water ; the  salts  with  most  other  metals  are  less 
freely  or  not  at  all  soluble  in  water,  but  dissolve  in  solution  of  potassium  acetate.  The 
neutral  solutions  produce,  with  ferric  chloride,  red-brown  precipitates. 

Tests. — A concentrated  aqueous  solution  of  the  acid  should  not  produce  a precipitate 
with  potassium-acetate  (absence  of  tartaric  acid),  nor  with  barium  chloride  (sulphuric 
acid),  calcium  chloride  (oxalic  acid),  hydrogen  sulphide,  nor,  after  neutralization,  with 
ammonium  sulphide  (metals).  When  treated  with  soda  in  excess  an  ammoniacal  odor 
should  not  be  generated,  and  when  heated  upon  platinum-foil  the  odor  of  caramel  should 
not  be  observed  (sugar),  nor  should  finally  any  fixed  residue  be  left  (salts). 
Pharmaceutical  Uses. — It  is  employed  for  preparing 

Liquor  ammonii  succinatis  (succinici,  P.  G.  1872),  s.  Liq.  cornu  cervi  succinici. — 1 
part  of  succinic  acid  is  dissolved  in  8 parts  of  warm  water,  and  neutralized  by  1 part  or 
a sufficient  quantity  of  pyro-oleous  ammonium  carbonate ; the  solution  is  set  aside 
for  twenty-four  hours  and  then  filtered.  It  has  a brownish  or  brown  color,  remains  clear 
when  mixed  with  three  times  its  weight  of  alcohol,  and  when  evaporated  and  ignited 
leaves  no  residue.  Pure  ammonium  succinate  is  sometimes  used  for  estimating  the  iron 
in  ferric  salts. 

Action  and  Uses. — There  is  no  reason  to  believe  that  this  acid  possesses  any 
active  properties  or  medicinal  virtues.  It  has  been  taken  in  doses  of  from  60  to  120 
grains  without  any  definite  effects.  It  is  excreted  partly  by  the  skin,  but  chiefly  with  the 
urine,  either  unchanged,  or,  as  has  been  asserted,  in  the  form  of  hippuric  acid.  It  has 
been  alleged  to  raise  the  pulse,  promote  diaphoresis  and  the  bronchial  secretion,  and  aug- 
ment the  activity  of  the  nervous  centres  ; and  has  been  prescribed  in  rheumatism , hron- 
chitis , and  hjjsteria  and  various  other  spasmodic  affections.  Even  if  its  apparent  utility 
had  been  demonstrated,  the  objection  may  fairly  be  made  that  the  acid  was  not  used 
alone,  but  as  a succinate  of  ammonium  and  with  empyreumatic  oils,  etc.  The  dose  of 
the  acid  may  be  stated  to  be  between  Gm.  0.30-1.00  (5  and  15  grains). 

Solution  of  succinate  of  ammonium  has  long  been  used  in  Germany  as  a stimulant  of 
the  nervous  system  in  spasmodic  disorders,  low  fevers , hysterical  affections,  etc.  Dose, 
from  10  to  30  drops  in  an  aromatic  vehicle. 

ACIDUM  SULPHURICUM,  77.  S.,  Br.— Sulphuric  Acid. 

Acidum  sulfuricum , P.  A.,  P.  G. — Oil  of  vitriol , E. ; Acide  sulfurique , Iluile  de  vitriol , 
Fr.  ; Schwefelsaure,  Vitriolol.  G. ; Acido  solforico , It.  ; Acido  sulfurico,  Sp. 

Formula  H2S04.  Molecular  weight  97.82.  Strength  not  less  than  92.5  per  cent., 
spec.  grav.  1.835  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  U.  S. ; 98  per  cent.,  spec.  grav.  1.843,  Br. ; 94-98 
per  cent.,  spec.  grav.  1.836-1.84,  P.  G. 

Diluted  Sulphuric  Acid.  Strength  10  per  cent.  U.  S.,  13.65  per  cent.  Br.,  about  16 


7 


98 


A CID  UM  S ULPHURICUM. 


per  cent.  P.  G.  Spec.  grav.  1.070  U.  S.,  1.094  Br.,  1.110-1.114  P.  G.,  1.12  P.  A.,  1.134 
P.  It. 

Origin. — Sulphuric  acid  is  found  in  the  free  state  in  certain  springs  emanating  from 
volcanoes  and  in  the  salivary  glands  of  some  mollusks,  but  it  mostly  occurs  combined 
with  various  bases  both  in  the  mineral  and  organic  kingdoms.  At  an  early  date  the  acid 
was  known  to  the  alchemists,  but  its  preparation  from  “ calcined  vitriol  ” (ferrous  sul- 
phate) was  first  described  by  Basilius  Valentinus  in  the  fifteenth  century.  Lavoisier 
(1777)  determined  it  to  be  composed  of  sulphur  and  oxygen,  and  Richter  (1795)  ascer- 
tained the  percentage  of  the  two  elements  nearly  correct.  In  the  manufacture  of  sul- 
phuric acid  Roebuck  and  Garbett  (1746)  replaced  the  glass  vessels  by  a lead  chamber, 
and  Lafolie  (1774)  introduced  the  use  of  steam.  Polony  (1888)  suggested  its  manufac- 
ture from  calcium  (or  similar)  sulphate  and  steam  at  a temperature  exceeding  600°  C. 
(1112°  F.). 

Preparation. — 1.  Sulphuric  Aciil  Sulphur  or  iron  pyrites  is  burned  in  a furnace 
arranged  in  such  a manner  that  the  sulphur  dioxide  is  mixed  with  atmospheric  air ; in  the 
same  furnace,  by  the  heat  of  the  burning  sulphur,  nitric  acid  is  generated  from  a mixture 
of  sodium  nitrate  and  sulphuric  acid,  the  vapors  of  nitric  acid  being  carried  with  the 
mixed  sulphur  dioxide  and  air  into  large  leaden  chambers  where  the  current  of  these 
gases  comes  in  contact  with  a jet  of  steam.  The  nitric  acid  reacts  with  the  sulphur 
dioxide  and  steam  as  follows:  2HN03  2S02  -f  II20  = 2H2S04  -f-  N203 ; the  newly- 

generated  nitrogen  trioxide  causes  the  formation  of  nitrosyl-sulphuric  acid,  as  shown  by 
the  equation  2S02  -j-  N203  -j-  02  -f-  H20  — 2S020HN02,  which  latter  is  decomposed  by 
water,  yielding  sulphuric  acid,  and  again  liberating  nitrogen  trioxide,  thus:  2S020IIN02- 
-j-  H,0  = 2H2S04  -(-  N203.  The  nitrogen  trioxide  now  again  combines  with  sulphur 
dioxide,  oxygen,  and  water  to  form  nitrosyl-sulphuric  acid,  which  again  undergoes  decom- 
position by  water.  Some  other  reactions  no  doubt  are  also  involved,  but  the  foregoing 
are  the  principal  ones.  The  sulphuric  acid  formed  condenses  and  dissolves  in  the  water, 
which  covers  the  floor  of  the  lead  chambers  to  the  depth  of  about  2 inches.  The  gases 
finally  escaping  from  the  third  or  last  chamber,  still  containing  nitrogen  compounds,  are 
denitrated  in  a so-called  Gay-Lussac  tower  filled  with  coke,  over  which  a finely-divided 
stream  of  sulphuric  acid  trickles,  by  which  the  nitrous  fumes  are  dissolved.  The  acid 
thus  charged  is  made  to  descend  in  a tall  tower,  known  as  the  Glover  tower,  over  coke  and 
fire-brick,  and  at  its  exit  meets  the  current  of  sulphur  dioxide  and  air,  whereby  the  nitro- 
gen compounds  are  liberated  and  utilized  for  oxidation.  It  will  be  observed  that,  theo- 
retically, a given  quantity  of  nitric  acid  is  capable  of  oxidizing  an  unlimited  amount  of 
sulphur  dioxide  ; the  limit  in  practice  is  occasioned  by  the  loss  of  the  nitrogen  compounds 
which  remain  dissolved  in  the  diluted  sulphuric  acid  finally  drawn  from  the  chambers. 
If  used  once  only,  the  nitric  acid  from  170  parts  or  2 molecules  of  the  sodium  nitrate 
would  be  sufficient  merely  to  oxidize  the  sulphur  dioxide  resulting  from  96  parts  or  3 
atoms  of  sulphur,  while  practically  about  5 or  6 parts  of  sodium  nitrate  are  sufficient. 

When  the  acid  in  the  chamber,  often  designated  as  chamber  acid , has  attained  the  spe- 
cific gravity  1.52  to  1.58,  and  contains  about  64  per  cent,  of  H2S04,  it  is  evaporated  in 
shallow  leaden  pans  until  it  has  reached  a density  of  1.70  to  1.75.  In  this  operation  sul- 
phurous, nitrous,  and  nitric  acids  are  expelled,  and  iron  lead,  and  calcium  sulphates, 
deposited,  the  salts  resulting  from  the  corrosion  of  the  vessels  and  the  impurities  of  the 
water.  The  final  concentration  must  be  effected  in  platinum  stills  or  glass  retorts  placed 
in  a sand-bath,  the  distillation  being  continued  as  long  as  a weak  acid  passes  over  or  until 
the  residue  has  the  desired  density,  For  the  preparation  of  a pure  sulphuric  acid,  how- 
ever, the  commercial  acid  must  be  distilled  from  a glass  retort,  which  is  placed  in  a 
deep  sand-bath  surrounded  by  sand  and  covered  with  a metallic  hood;  the  neck  of  the 
retort  is  connected  without  luting  with  a suitable  receiver,  which  is  changed  when  about 
one-eighth  or  one-sixth  of  the  acid  has  come  over  ; the  subsequent  portion  will  have  the 
required  specific  gravity.  It  is  important  that  an  acid  free  from  arsenic  should  be  selected 
for  distillation. 

2.  Nordhausen  Oil  of  Vitriol,  so  named  because  it  was  first  manufactured  near 
Nordhausen  in  Saxony,  is  obtained  from  ferric  sulphate,  which  is  made  by  allowing  ferrous 
sulphate  to  oxidize  in  the  air.  It  is  distilled  from  small  earthen  retorts,  the  dry  salt 
yielding  about  50  per  cent,  of  acid,  which  consists  of  about  1 molecule  each  of  sulphuric 
anhydride  and  hydrogen  sulphate,  S03.H2S04.  Ferric  oxide  remains  behind,  and  is  used 
under  the  name  of  colcothar  or  rouge  for  polishing  glass  and  metals. 

3.  Acidum  Sulphuricum  Dilutum,  U.  /S'.,  Br.  Diluted  Sulphuric  Acid,  E. ; Acide 
sulfurique  dilue,  Fr. ; Verdiinnte  Schwefelsaure,  G.  Take  of  Sulphuric  Acid,  100 


4 CID  UM  S ULPIT  URIC  UM. 


99 


Gm.,  Distilled  Water,  825  Gm.  Pour  the  acid  gradually,  with  constant  stirring,  into  the 
distilled  water,  U.  N.  Mix  1350  grains  of  sulphuric  acid  with  sufficient  distilled  water 
until  the  mixture  at  15.5°  C.  (60°  F.)  measures  an  imperial  pint,  Br.  Mix  sulphuric 
acid  1 part  and  water  5 parts,  P.  G. 

In  place  of  using  metric  weights,  1 ounce  (av.  or  troy)  of  sulphuric  acid  may  be  carefully 
mixed  with  S\  ounces  (av.  or  troy)  of  distilled  water,  and  when  cool  sufficient  distilled 
water  should  be  added  to  bring  the  weight  of  the  diluted  acid  up  to  91  ounces  (av.  or  troy). 

The  direction  of  the  Pharmacopoeias  to  add  the  acid  to  the  water  must  be  observed  in 
all  cases,  and  more  particularly  if  large  quantities  of  acid  are  to  be  diluted.  During  the 
mixing  of  the  two  liquids,  which  is  best  performed  in  a porcelain  dish  or  beaker-glass, 
a considerable  elevation  of  temperature  takes  place,  causing  a portion  of  the  water  to 
evaporate;  the  weight  of  the  cooled  mixture  should  therefore  be  made  up  to  925  Gm.  by 
the  addition  of  distilled  water.  Filtration  through  paper  or  decantation  is  necessary  only 
when  pure  sulphuric  acid  has  not  been  used,  to  remove  the  lead  sulphate,  which  is 
deposited  from  the  commercial  acid  on  diluting  with  water. 

Purification. — To  remove  nitrogen  compounds  from  strong  sulphuric  acid,  Maxwell 
Lyte  recommends  (1864)  the  addition  to  it  of  I or  i per  cent,  of  oxalic  acid,  and  then 
exposure  to  heat  until  this  compound  is  completely  decomposed.  To  remove  arsenic, 
Busy  and  Buignet  (1863  and  1864)  oxidize  this  metal,  if  present  as  arsenous  acid,  to 
arsenic  acid,  and  then  distil  nine-tenths  of  the  sulphuric  acid  after  having  previously 
added  some  ammonium  sulphate.  A.  Buchner  (1863)  avoids  distillation  in  such  a case 
by  reducing  the  arsenic,  if  present  as  arsenic  acid,  to  arsenous  acid  by  heating  the  sul- 
phuric acid  with  a little  charcoal.  Hydrochloric  acid  gas  is  then  passed  through  the 
liquid,  and  the  arsenic  is  entirely  eliminated  from  the  hot  acid  as  arsenic  chloride. 

Properties. — 1.  Sulphuric  Anhydride  or  Anhydrous  Sulphuric  Acid.  This  dis- 
tils first  when  Nordhausen  oil  of  vitriol  is  heated.  At  a low  temperature  it  forms  long, 
colorless  prisms  having  in  quantity  somewhat  the  aspect  of  asbestos.  It  fuses  at  about 
20°  C.  (68°  F.)  to  a colorless  liquid,  boils  above  35°  C.  (95°  F.),  and  dissolves  in  all 
proportions  of  oil  of  vitriol.  When  kept  at  a temperature  below  25°  C.  (87°  F.),  it  is 
gradually  converted  into  a modification  which  is  slightly  soluble  in  oil  of  vitriol,  and 
melts  slowly  above  50°  C.  (122°  F.),  at  the  same  time  passing  into  the  former  kind. 
Both  kinds  attract  moisture  with  great  avidity,  and  in  contact  with  the  air  give  off  white 
fumes.  Its  composition  is  S03. 

2.  Nordhausen  Oil  of  Vitriol.  This  was  officinal  in  Germany  under  the  name  of 
Acidum  sulfuricum  famans.  It  is  an  oily  liquid,  emitting  white  suffocating  fumes,  and 
having  a specific  gravity  of  from  1.860  to  1.896.  It  is  usually  of  a brownish  color,  due 
to  organic  matter.  Near  0°  C.  (32°  F.)  it  forms  colorless  flat  crystals,  and  at  about  50° 
C.  (122°  F.)  it  commences  to  boil,  sulphuric  anhydride  distilling  over  ; on  continuing 
the  heat  an  acid  is  finally  obtained  which  boils  at  338°  C.  (see  below). 

Pyrosnlphuric  acid  is  a similar  compound,  which  is  solid  below  15°  C,,  and  is  either 
distilled  from  thoroughly  exsiccated  ferric  sulphate  or  from  sodium  pyrosulphate,  or 
it  is  prepared  by  passing  sulphur  dioxide  and  oxygen  over  red-hot  asbestos.  The  acid 
is  used  in  the  manufacture  of  tar  colors. 

3.  Commercial  Sulphuric  Acid,  Acidum  Sulfuricum  Crudum,  P.  G.  It  forms 
a colorless  or  brownish,  inodorous,  oily  liquid,  intensely  acid  and  corrosive,  and  having  a 
specific  gravity  of  not  less  than  1.830  (j P.  G i).  It  holds  a small  quantity  of  lead  sulphate 
in  solution,  which,  however,  does  not  render  it  unfit  for  pharmaceutical  purposes  if  it  is 
otherwise  pure,  more  particularly  free  from  arsenic,  since  that  salt  is  precipitated  when  the 
acid  is  diluted  with  water  or  alcohol.  It  is  also  liable  to  contain  small  quantities  of  nitric, 
hydrochloric,  and  sulphurous  acid,  iron  and  other  metals,  lime,  ammonia,  and  other  alkalies. 

4.  Pure  Sulphuric  Acid.  It  resembles  the  colorless  crude  acid  in  its  physical  properties, 
and.  like  it,  is  very  hygroscopic.  When  cooled  to  about  — 35°  C.  ( — 31°  F.)  it  congeals, 
and  heated  to  338°  C.  (640°  F.)  it  boils,  yielding  a colorless  gas  producing  dense  white 
fumes  when  in  contact  with  the  atmosphere,  and  finally  evaporates  without  leaving  any 
residue.  The  boiling  is  usually  accompanied  with  violent  concussions.  Weaker  acids 
boil  at  a lower  temperature,  the  strength  and  density  being  increased  until  the  boiling- 
point  mentioned  above  has  been  reached,  when  the  acid  contains  1.5  per  cent.  H20  and 
98.5  per  cent.  H2S()4  (Marignac,  1853).  Pure  hydrogen  sulphate  melts,  according  to 
Marignac,  at  10.5°  C.  (51°  F.),  and  has  at  0°  C.  (32°  F.)  the  density  1.854,  and  at 
12°  C.  (53.6°  F.)  1.842,  in  both  cases  compared  with  water  of  the  same  temperature. 
The  affinity  of  concentrated  sulphuric  acid  for  water  is  so  great  that  organic  compounds 
left  in  contact  with  it  are  charred,  while  the  acid  at  the  same  time  acquires  a brown  color. 


100 


ACIDUM  SULPHURICUM. 


The  specific  gravities  of  sulphuric  acid  of  different  strengths,  as  ascertained  by  Vau- 
quelin,  Darcet,  Bineau,  Dalton,  Ure,  and  Kolb,  vary  in  some  cases  considerably.  The 
following  table  is  a condensation  of  the  one  by  Lunge,  which  has  been  adopted  by  the 

U.  S.  P. 


Specific 
Gravity 
15°  C. 

100  parts  contain 
— parts  of 

Specific  j 
Gravity 
15°  C. 

100  parts  contain 
— parts  of 

Specific 
Gravity 
1 5°  C.  I 
at15°  C. 
in  air.  | 

100  parts  contain 
— parts  of 

at15°  C. 
in  air. 

so3. 

h2so4.  j 

at15°  C. 
in  air. 

S03. 

H2S04. 

1 

S03. 

. 

h2so4. 

1.0008 

0.07 

0.09  ! 

1.261 

28.22 

34.57 

1.522 

! 

50.28  i 

61.59 

1.0059 

0.68 

0.83  1 

1.265 

. . 

35.00 

1.527 

50.66 

62.06 

1.0109 

1.28  ! 

1.57  1 

1.266 

28.69 

35.14 

1.532 

51.04 

62.53 

1.0159 

1.88 

2.30 

1.271 

29.15 

35.70 

1.537  i 

51.43  j 

63.00 

1.021 

2.47 

3.03 

1.276 

29.62 

36.29 

1.542 

51.78 

63.43 

1.026 

3.07 

3.76 

1.280 

30.00 

1.547 

52.12 

63.85 

1.031 

3.67 

4.49 

1.281 

30.10 

36.87 

1.552 

52.46 

64.26 

1.0345 

5.00 

1.286 

30.57 

37.45 

1.557 

52.79 

64.67 

1.036 

4.27 

5.23 

1.291 

31.04 

38.03 

1.561 

. „ 

65.00 

1.041 

4.87 

5.96 

1.296 

31.52 

38.61 

1.562 

53.12 

65.01 

1.042 

5.00 

1.301 

31.99 

39.19 

1.5670 

53.46  | 

65.49 

1.046 

5.45 

6.67 

1.306 

32.46 

39.77 

1.572 

53.80 

65.90 

1.051 

6.02 

7.37 

1.308 

40.00 

1.577 

54.13 

66.30 

1.056 

6.59 

8.07 

1.311 

32.94 

40.35 

1.582 

54.46 

66.71 

1.061 

7.16 

8.77 

1.316 

33.41 

40.93 

1.587 

54.80 

67.13 

1.066 

7.73 

9.47 

1.3215 

33.88 

41.50 

1.5896 

55.00 

1.0697 

• • 

10.00 

1.327 

34.35 

42.08 

1.592 

55.18 

67.59 

1.071 

8.32 

10.19 

1.332 

34.80 

42.66 

1.597 

55.55 

68.05 

1.076 

8.90 

10.90 

1.334 

35.00 

1.602 

55.93 

68.51 

1.081 

9.47 

11.60  j 

1.337 

35.27 

43.20 

1.607 

56.30 

68.97 

1.0856 

10.00 

1.342 

35.71 

43.74 

1.612 

56.68 

69.43 

1.086 

10.04 

12.39 

1.347 

36.14 

44.28 

1.617 

57.05 

69.89 

1.091 

10.60 

12.99 

1.352 

36.58 

44.82 

1.618 

70.00 

1.096 

11.16 

13.67 

1.354 

45.00 

1.622 

57.40 

70.32 

1.101 

11.71 

14.35 

1.357 

37.02 

45.35 

1.627 

57.75 

70.74 

1.1058 

15.00 

1.362 

37.45 

45.88 

1.632 

58.09 

71.16 

1.106 

12.27 

15.03 

1.367 

37.89 

46.61 

1.637 

58.43 

71.57 

1.111 

12.82 

15.71 

1.372 

38.32 

46.94 

1.642 

58.77 

71.99 

1.116 

13.36 

16.36 

1.377 

38.75 

47.47 

1.647 

59.10 

72.40 

1.121 

13.89  j 

17.01 

1.382 

39.18 

48.00 

1.652 

59.45 

72.82 

1.126 

14.42 

17.66 

1.387 

39.62 

48.53 

1.657 

59.79 

73.23 

1.131 

14.95 

18.31 

1.3914 

40.00 

1.661 

60.00 

1.1315 

15.00 

1.392 

40.05 

49.06 

1.662 

60.11 

73.64 

1.136 

15.48 

18.96 

1.397 

40.48 

49.59 

1.667 

60.46 

74.07 

1.141 

16.01 

19.61 

1.401 

50.00 

1.672 

60.82 

74.51 

1.144 

20.00 

1.402 

40.91 

50.11 

1.677 

61.20 

74.97 

1.146 

16.54 

20.26 

1.407 

41.33 

50.63 

1.6773 

75.00 

1.151 

17.07 

20.91 

1.412 

41.76 

51.15 

1.682 

61.57 

75.42 

1.156 

17.59 

21.55 

1.417 

42.17 

51.66 

1.687 

61.93 

75.86 

1.161 

18.11 

22.19 

1.422 

42.57 

52.15 

1.692 

62.29 

76.30 

1.166 

18.64 

22.83 

1.427 

42.96 

52.63 

1.697 

62.64 

76.73 

1.171 

19.16 

23.47 

1.432 

43.36 

53.11 

1.702 

63.00 

77.17 

1.176 

19.69 

24.12 

1.437 

43.75 

53.59 

1.707 

63.35 

77.60 

1.179 

20.00 

1.442 

44.14 

54.07 

1.712 

63.70 

78.04 

1.181 

20.21 

24.76 

1.447 

44.53 

54.55 

1.717 

64.07 

78.48 

1.1829 

25.00 

1.4517 

55.00 

1.722 

64.43 

78.92 

1.186 

20.73 

25.40 

1.452 

44.92 

55.03 

1.727 

64.78 

79.36 

1.191 

21.26 

26.04 

1.453 

45.00 

1.730 

65.00 

1.196 

21.78 

26.68 

1.457 

45.31 

55.50 

1.732 

65.14 

79.80 

1.201 

22.30 

27.32 

1.462 

45.69 

55.97 

1.734 

80.00 

1.206 

22.82 

27.95 

1.467 

46.07 

56.43 

1.737 

65.50 

80.24 

1.211 

23.33 

28.58 

1.472 

46.45 

56.90 

1.742 

65.86 

80.68 

1.216 

23.84 

29.21 

1.477 

46.83 

57.37 

1.747 

66.22 

81.12 

1.221 

24.36 

29.84 

1.482 

47.21 

57.83 

1.752 

66.58 

81.56 

1.222 

30.00 

1.487 

47.57 

58.28 

1.757 

66.94 

82.00 

L226 

24.88 

30.48 

1.492 

47.95 

58.74 

1.762 

67.30 

82.44 

1.227 

25.00 

1.497 

48.34 

59.22 

1.767 

67.65 

82.88 

1.231 

25.39 

31.11 

1.502 

48.73 

59.70 

1.772 

68.02 

83.32 

1.236 

25.88 

31.70 

1.505 

60.00 

1.777 

68.49 

83.90 

1.241 

26.35 

32.28 

1.507 

49.12 

60.18 

1.782 

| 68.98 

84.50 

1.246 

26.83 

32.86 

1.512 

49.51 

60.65 

1.786 

l 

• • 

85.00 

1.251 

27.29 

33.43 

1.517 

49.89 

61.12 

1.787 

i 69.47 

85.10 

1.256 

27.76 

34.00 

1.5184 

50.00 

1 • • 

1.792 

1 69.96 

85.70 

A CID  UM  S ULPHl  TRICVM. 


101 


Specific 
Gravity 
15°  C. 

100  parts  contain 
— parts  ol 

I Specific 
Gravity 
15°  < \ 

100  parts  contain 
— parts  of 

Specific 
Gravity 
15°  C. 

100  parts  contain 
— parts  of 

at15°  C. 
in  air. 

so3. 

H2S04. 

at15°C. 
in  air. 

S03. 

h2so4. 

at15°C7~ 

in  air. 

S03. 

h2so4. 

1.7924 

70.00 

1.830 

74.69 

91.50 

1.841 

77.23 

94.60 

1.797 

70.45 

86.30 

1.831 

74.86 

91.70 

1.842 

77.55 

95.00 

1.802 

70.94 

86.90 

1 1.8318 

75.00 

■ • 

1.843 

78.04 

95.60 

1.8075  | 

71.50 

87.60  1 

1.832 

75.03 

91.90 

1.8431 

78.33 

95.95 

1.813 

72.08' 

88.30 

1.833 

75.19 

92.10 

1.8436 

79.19 

97. 

1.818 

72.69 

89.05 

1.834 

75.35 

92.30 

1.8441 

79.76 

97.70 

1.8227  ! 

90.00 

1.835 

/ 5.53 

92.52 

1.8438 

80.00 

1.823 

73.51 

90.05 

1.836 

75.72 

92.75 

1.8436 

80.16 

98.20 

1.824 

73.63 

90.20 

1.837 

75.96 

93.05 

1.8431 

80.57 

98.70 

1.825 

73.80 

90.40 

1.838 

76.27 

93.43 

1.8426 

80.98 

99.20 

1.826 

73.96 

90.60 

1.839 

76.57 

93.80 

1.8421 

81.18 

99.45 

1.827 

74.12 

90.80 

1.8396 

76.90 

94.20 

1.8416 

81.39 

99.70 

1.828 

74.29 

91.00 

1.840 

76.99 

94.31 

1.8411 

81.59 

99.95 

1.829 

74.49 

91.25 

Pure  sulphuric  acid  unites  with  water  and  alcohol  in  all  proportions,  forming  trans- 
parent liquids ; a white  turbidity  indicates  lead  sulphate,  which  becomes  black  with 
hydrogen  sulphide.  Arsenic  would  be  indicated  by  a yellow  precipitate  occurring  in  the 
diluted  acid  with  hydrogen  sulphide,  or  more  rapidly  by  silver  nitrate  in  applying 
Marsh’s  test  or  by  Fleitmann’s  method  (see  page  27).  A cold  concentrated  solution  of 
ferrous  sulphate  poured  upon  the  surface  of  the  concentrated  acid  does  not  develop  a 
purplish-brown  color  where  the  two  liquids  unite,  showing  the  absence  of  nitrogen  oxides. 

The  acid  should  contain  not  less  than  92.5  per  cent,  of  H2S04 ; 0.48  Gin.  of  it  will  be 
exactly  neutralized  by  not  less  than  9.25  Cc.  of  the  volumetric  solution  of  potassa  ( V. 
S .).  The  British  Pharmacopoeia  requires  for  1000  grain-measures  of  the  latter  50 

grains  of  the  acid,  which  corresponds  to  98  per  cent,  of  H2S04,  equal  to  80  per  cent.  S03. 

Sulphuric  acid  is  one  of  the  strongest  of  acids.  It  is  bibasic,  and  forms  normal  and 
acid  salts,  which  are  generally  crystallizable  and  soluble  in  water.  The  barium  and  lead 
sulphates  are  entirely  insoluble  in  water  and  diluted  acids ; hence  their  soluble  salts 
furnish  the  best  reagents  for  sulphuric  acid  in  its  uncombined  and  combined  state. 

5.  Diluted  Sulphuric  Acid.  It  has  the  general  properties  of  the  strong  acid,  but 
is  not  of  an  oily  consistence,  and  is  less  caustic.  4.89  Gm.  of  it  are  neutralized  by  10 
Cc.  of  normal  potassa  solution.  The  British  Pharmacopoeia  requires  the  diluted  acid  to 
contain  11.14  per  cent,  of  S03,  equal  to  13.65  per  cent,  of  H2S04 ; of  it  359  grains  are 
neutralized  by  1000  grain-measures  of  the  volumetric  solution  of  soda.  Other  authori- 
ties direct  10  (Fr.  Cod.),  16.66  (P.  A.),  and  18.8  ( F '.  It.)  per  cent.  H2S04. 

Impurities. — The  most  important  impurities,  arsenic,  lead,  and  nitrogen  oxides, 
have  been  mentioned  before.  Saline  additions  made  to  increase  the  specific  gravity  of 
weaker  acids  are  recognized  by  the  fixed  residue  left  on  evaporating  a small  quantity 
from  a platinum  dish  or  crucible.  Sulphurous  and  nitrous  acid  rapidly  decolorize  potas- 
sium permanganate.  Arsenic  is  found  principally  in  sulphuric  acid  manufactured  from 
pyrites,  more  rarely  if  made  from  sulphur ; for  this  reason  the  sulphuric  acid  manufac- 
tured in  the  United  States  is  often  free  from  this  contamination.  The  purity  of  sulphuric 
acid  is  determined  as  follows : 1 vol.  of  acid  diluted  with  5 vol.  of  alcohol  must  remain 
clear  and  free  from  precipitate  after  one  hour  (absence  of  lead  sidphate , or  other  salts). 
The  mixture  of  1 Cc.  of  sulphuric  acid  and  5 Cc.  of  water  should  not  at  once  discharge 
the  color  of  0.1  Cc.  potassium  permanganate  (absence  of  sulphurous  or  nitrous  acid). 
2 Cc.  of  the  acid,  upon  which  a layer  of  ferrous  sulphate  solution  has  been  carefully 
poured,  should  not  cause  a brown  or  reddish  color  at  the  zone  of  contact  (absence  of 
nitric  or  nitrous  acid).  In  sulphuric  acid  diluted  with  20  volumes  of  water  no  precipi- 
tate should  be  formed  by  the  addition  of  silver  nitrate  T.  S.  (absence  of  hydrochloric 
acid),  or  of  hydrogen  sulphide  T.  S.  (absence  of  lead,  arsenic,  copper)  ; nor  by  super- 
saturation with  ammonia-water  (iron)  ; nor  should  the  acid  thus  supersaturated  leave 
any  fixed  residue  on  evaporation  and  ignition  (absence  of  non-volatile  impurities),  or 
yield  any  precipitate  on  addition  of  ammonium  sulphide  T.  S (iron,  thallium,  etc.). 
When  1 Cc.  of  a mixture  of  1 volume  of  sulphuric  acid  with  2 volumes  of  water  is 
mixed  with  1 Cc.  of  stannous  chloride  T.  S.,  and  a small  piece  of  pure  tin-foil  added,  no 
coloration  should  appear  within  one  hour  (limit  of  arsenic,  U.  S.).  These  tests  are 
nearly  identical  with  those  adopted  by  the  German  Pharmacopoeia,  which  requires  also 


102 


ACIDUM  SULPHURICUM. 


that  on  carefully  pouring  a solution  of  a small  fragment  of  sodium  sulphide  in  2 Cc.  of 
hydrochloric  acid  upon  2 Cc.  of  sulphuric  acid,  the  zone  of  contact  should  not  acquire 
a reddish  color,  nor  should,  on  warming,  a red  compound  be  separated,  showing  the 
absence  of  selenium. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Sulphuric  acid  is  largely  used  in  numerous  pharmaceu- 
tical processes  for  the  liberation  of  acids  (hydrocyanic,  hydrochloric,  nitric,  citric,  tartaric)  ; 
in  the  preparation  of  alkaloids,  pyroxylon,  ether,  and  oil  of  wine ; for  generating  hydro- 
gen with  zinc  and  water  ; for  decomposing  certain  organic  compounds,  as  in  the  purification 
of  chloroform  ; and  for  the  preparation  of  sulphurous  acid,  the  medicinal  sulphates,  and 
of  Acidum  sulphuricum  aromaticum. 

Mixtura  sulfurica  acida,  P.  G .,  s.  Elixir  acidum  Halleri.^— It  is  prepared  by  drop- 
ping 1 part  of  pure  sulphuric  acid  into  3 parts  (1  pt.  F.  It.')  of  alcohol,  and  stirring  con- 
tinually; it  is  a colorless  liquid,  having  the  spec.  grav.  0.993  to  0.997.  It  is  an  alcoholic 
solution  of  ethylsulphuric  acid,  into  which  the  sulphuric  acid  is  gradually  converted. 
Acid  and  alcohol  in  the  proportion  of  1 : 3 is  acqua  de  Rabel  ( F '.  It.).  The  same,  but 
colored  by  red  poppy-petals,  is  Eau  de  Rabel , ( F . Cod.). 

Mixtura  vulneraria  acida,  s.  Aqua  vulneraria  Thedenii. — Theden’s  vulnerary 
water,  E. ; Eau  d’arquebusade,  Fr. ; Theden’s  Wundwasser,  G.  It  is  a mixture  of 
diluted  sulphuric  acid  1 part;  vinegar  6 parts;  alcohol  (sp.  grav.  .892)  3 parts;  and 
clarified  honey  2 parts. — A.  D.  A. 

Michel’s  paste  is  a mixture  of  powdered  asbestos  1 part  and  concentrated  sulphuric 
acid  3 parts.  It  should  be  freshly  prepared  when  needed.  Similar  are  the  caustic  pastes 
of  Rust,  Velpeau,  and  Ricord,  in  which  the  asbestos  is  replaced  by  saffron,  liquorice-root, 
and  powdered  charcoal  respectively. 

Action  and  Uses. — In  a concentrated  state  sulphuric  acid  abstracts  water  from  * 
organized  matter,  turning  it  black  and  exposing  its  carbonaceous  elements  in  the  form 
of  charcoal.  Injected  into  the  veins,  it  coagulates  the  blood  and  carbonizes  it.  When 
swallowed  in  a concentrated  form  it  destroys  all  the  tissues  it  touches,  and  in  this  con- 
dition, as  well  as  when  somewhat  less  strong,  it  produces  whitish  scalds  of  the  lips  and 
mouth,  followed  by  ulcers,  severe  burning  pain  in  the  throat,  oesophagus,  and  stomach, 
with  violent  efforts  at  vomiting,  and  collapse.  The  urine  is  sometimes  albuminous  or 
bloody.  The  mind  remains  clear.  Even  when  death  does  not  directly  occur,  it  often 
does  so  at  a later  period,  owing  to  stricture  of  the  oesophagus  or  intestine  resulting  from 
ulceration  of  the  mucous  membrane.  (For  cases,  see  Times  and  Gaz.,  Mar.  1877,  p.  320  ; 
Virchows  Archiv , lxxxiii.  198;  Zeitch.  f Min.  Med.,  xiv.  490.)  In  medicinal  doses  it 
diminishes  thirst,  restrains  sweats  depending  on  debility,  improves  the  appetite,  probably 
by  stimulating  the  stomach,  acidifies  the  secretions,  and  reduces  the  frequency  of  the 
pulse.  Its  action  upon  the  teeth,  even  when  it  is  greatly  diluted,  is  exceedingly  injuri- 
ous, and  by  continued  use  it  exhausts  the  digestive  functions  and  causes  diarrhoea,  with 
debility  and  emaciation. 

The  corrosive  action  of  sulphuric  acid  has  been  made  use  of  to  correct  inversion  and 
also  eversion  of  the  eyelid  ( ectropion  and  entropion)  by  forming  an  eschar  upon  the  con- 
vex or  projecting  surface  of  the  part,  which  in  cicatrizing  contracts  the  tissues  and  cor- 
rects the  deformity.  It  has  sometimes  been  employed  as  an  escharotic  application  to 
various  infecting  or  ill-conditioned  ulcers , particularly  in  gangrene  of  the  mouth  and  in 
caries  of  the  bones,  and  also  for  the  extirpation  of  cancers.  In  the  last  case  a paste  is 
applied  to  the  tumors  formed  of  asbestos  and  powdered  sulphate  of  zinc,  or  saffron  sat- 
urated with  sulphuric  acid.  The  operation  is  tedious,  very  painful,  and  as  uncertain  as 
any  other  for  the  same  purpose.  An  ointment  composed  of  1 part  of  the  acid  to  8 parts 
of  lard  has  been  recommended  for  tinea  capitis  ; and  in  the  treatment  of  scabies  it  is  often 
successful  either  in  ointment  or  lotion,  and  has  the  advantage  over  sulphur  ointment  of 
being  free  from  any  unpleasant  smell.  Internally,  sulphuric  acid  in  the  diluted  or  aro- 
matic form  is  much  used  in  chronic  diseases  with  a tendency  to  a dissolution  of  the 
blood,  such  as  scurvy  and  purpura , as  well  as  in  other  and  especially  uterine  passive  haem- 
orrhages. It  is  thought  to  be  particularly  useful  in  mucous  haemorrhages  and  fluxes, 
because  the  acid  is  eliminated  by  the  mucous  membranes ; but  this  explanation  would 
not  apply  to  blood  diseases,  whether  chronic  or  acute,  and  especially  to  fevers  of  a low 
type,  in  which  it  is  reputed  to  be  efficient.  Still  less  would  it  apply  to  colliquative  sweat- 
ing, for  which  this  medicine  is  one  of  the  very  best  remedies.  It  has  been  assumed  to 
explain  the  efficacy  of  the  acid  in  diarrhoea. , cholera  morbus , and  even  epidemic  cholera. 
In  the  last-mentioned  cases  the  most  probable  view  is  that  its  operation  is  local  and  in  its 
nature  astringent.  So  far  as  it  acts  by  being  taken  into  the  blood,  it  probably  does  so  in 


ACIDUM  SULPHURICUM  AROMATICUM. 


103 


the  same  manner,  but  from  within  instead  of  from  without.  Its  apparent  power  of  pre- 
venting as  well  as  of  curing  epidemic  cholera  appears  distinctly  to  be  owing  to  the  astrin- 
gent influence  by  which  it  prevents  the  absorption  of  the  cholera  poison  from  the  aliment- 
ary canal,  the  ordinary  channel  of  its  introduction,  and  at  the  same  time  limits  the 
transudation  of  the  contents  of  the  blood-vessels  into  the  bowels.  Its  value  as  a pro- 
phylactic against  cholera  is  not  so  well  authenticated.  Its  efficacy  in  painter's  colic  is 
generally  admitted.  It  is  administered  with  water  in  the  proportion  of  about  Gm.  8 
(fgij)  in  3 pints  of  water  in  the  course  of  twenty-four  hours.  If  it  is  useful,  as  alleged, 
in  curing  gravel  and  stone , its  utility  is  probably  due  to  a tonic  action  upon  the  stomach. 
It  has  sometimes  appeared  to  remove  tape-worms , perhaps  by  its  physical  action  upon 
these  parasites. 

As  antidotes  to  poisoning  by  sulphuric  acid,  chalk,  magnesia,  carbonate  of  magnesia, 
and  the  alkaline  carbonates  may  be  administered. 

The  dose  of  the  strong  acid  is  Gm.  0.06-0.13  (1  or  2 drops),  dissolved  in  not  less  than 
Cc.  128  (f^iv)  of  water ; of  the  diluted  acid,  from  Gm.  0.60-2.00  (10  to  30  drops)  may 
be  given  in  the  same  way. 

ACIDUM  SULPHURICUM  AROMATICUM,  U.  8.,  Br.— Aromatic 

Sulphuric  Acid. 

Tinctura  aromatica  acida , Elixir  vitrioli  Mynsichti.  — Elixir  of  vitriol , E. ; Elixir 
vitriolique , Teinture  ( Alcoolie ) aromatique  sulfurique , Fr. ; Saure  aromatische  Tinctur , 
Mynsicht's  Elixir , G. 

Strength  of  H2S04 : 20  per  cent.  U.  S.,  12.5  per  cent.  Br. : Spec.  grav.  0.939  U.  S ., 
0.911  Br. 

Preparation. — Add  gradually  Sulphuric  acid  100  Cc.  to  Alcohol  700  Cc.,  and 
allow  the  mixture  to  cool.  Then  add  to  it  Tincture  of  Ginger  50  Cc.,  Oil  of  Cinnamon 
1 Cc.,  and  enough  of  alcohol  to  make  the  product  measure  1000  Cc.  U.  S.  (In  the  absence 
of  metric  measures  the  following  proportions  will  correspond  to  the  official  formula  : Sul- 
phuric Acid  1 fluidounce,  Tincture  of  Ginger  4 fluidounce,  Oil  of  Cinnamon  5 minims, 
Alcohol  sufficient  to  make  10  fluidounces.) 

Take  of  Strong  Tincture  of  Ginger  2 fluidounces ; Spirit  of  Cinnamon  2 fluidounces  ; 
Rectified  Spirit  36  fluidounces  ; Sulphuric  Acid  3 fluidounces  (or  2419  grains).  Mix  the 
sulphuric  acid  gradually  with  the  spirit,  and  add  the  spirit  of  cinnamon  and  tincture  of 
ginger. — Br.  Spec.  grav.  0.911  : contains  about  12.5  per  cent,  of  H2S04. 

This  preparation  has  been  dismissed  from  both  the  French  and  German  Pharma- 
copoeias. 

Properties. — The  formula  is  essentially  that  suggested  by  T.  N.  Jamieson  in  1867 
as  a substitute  for  one  directing,  the  maceration  of  the  aromatics  in  the  mixture  of 
alcohol  and  sulphuric  acid,  whereby  a preparation  of  a deep  brown-red  color  is  obtained, 
which  in  the  course  of  time  deposits  an  unsightly  precipitate,  due  perhaps  to  modified 
tannin.  The  preparation  obtained  by  the  new  pharmacopoeial  process  is  of  a light-straw 
color,  and,  while  it  yields  only  a slight  precipitate,  has  about  the  same  aromatic  prop- 
erties as  the  former. 

On  mixing  sulphuric  acid  with  alcohol  the  temperature  rises,  and  some  ethylsulpliuric 
(sulphovinic)  acid  is  produced,  the  quantity  of  which  slowly  increases  with  the  age  of 
the  preparation.  For  the  same  amount  of  sulphur  this  acid  has  only  one-half  the  sat- 
urating power  of  sulphuric  acid  ; the  acidimetric  test  must  therefore  vary  with  the  age 
of  this  preparation,  and  when  fresh  and  made  at  a low  temperature  9.8  Gm.  of  the  acid, 
properly  diluted  with  water,  will  require  for  complete  neutralization  37. ( /X  S .)  Cc.  of 
the  volumetric  solution  of  soda.  The  British  Pharmacopoeia  requires  500  grain-measures 
of  the  soda  solution  for  the  neutralization  of  195  grains  by  weight  of  its  aromatic  sul- 
phuric acid. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  preparation  is  preferable  to  any  other  form  of  sulphuric 
acid  for  internal  administration.  It  is  peculiarly  adapted  to  the  treatment  of  gastro- 
intestinal disorders , for  which  the  simple  acid  is  also  appropriate,  and  of  the  colliquative 
sweats  of  phthisis  and  other  hectical  affections.  The  cure  of  a case  of  exophthalmic 
goitre  (Magruder,  Med.  News , liii.  499)  has  been  attributed  to  it.  Dose,  Gm.  0.60-1.30 
(gtt.  x-xx). 


104 


ACIDUM  SULPHUROSVM. 


ACIDUM  SULPHUROSUM,  U.  $.,  Br.— Sulphurous  Acid. 

Sulphurous  anhydride , Sulphur  dioxide , E. ; Acide  sulfureux , F. ; Schweflige  Secure,  (1. 

Formula,  S02.  Molecular  weight  63.9.  Strength  6.4  per  cent.  U.  S.,  5 per  cent.  Br. 
Specific  gravity,  1.035  U.  S.,  1.025  Br. 

Origin  and  Production. — Sulphurous  acid  was  first  distinguished  from  sulphuric 
acid  by  Stahel  (1697)  ; its  properties  in  the  gaseous  state  were  studied  by  Priestly  (1775), 
and  Lavoisier  (1777)  showed  that  it  contains  less  oxygen  than  sulphuric  acid.  It  is  met 
with  in  the  exhalations  of  active  volcanoes,  and  is  produced  on  the  burning  of  sulphur 
and  when  concentrated  sulphuric  acid  is  heated  with  charcoal  or  with  organic  matters,  with 
copper,  mercury,  or  other  metals.  The  official  process  is  as  follows : 

Preparation. — Take  of  Sulphuric  Acid  80  Cc. ; Charcoal  in  coarse  powder  20  Gm.; 
Distilled  Water  1000  Cc.  Pour  the  acid  upon  the  charcoal  previously  introduced  into  a 
glass  flask,  and  mix  the  two  well  together.  By  means  of  a glass  tube  and  well-fitting 
corks  connect  the  flask  with  a 200  Cc.  wash-bottle,  which  is  one-third  filled  with  water  and 
fitted  with  a cork  having  three  perforations.  Into  one  of  these  perforations  insert  a safety- 
tube,  which  should  reach  nearly  to  the  bottom  of  the  bottle  ; into  the  remaining  perforation 
fit  a glass  tube  and  connect  it  with  a bottle  which  is  about  three-fourths  filled  by  the  dis- 
tilled water.  This  tube  should  dip  about  an  inch  below  the  surface  of  the  water.  By 
means  of  a second  tube  connect  this  bottle  with  another  bottle  containing  a dilute 
solution  of  sodium  carbonate,  to  absorb  any  gas  which  may  not  be  retained  by  the  dis- 
tilled water.  Having  ascertained  that  all  the  connections  are  air-tight,  apply  a moderate 
heat  to  the  flask  until  the  evolution  of  gas  has  nearly  ceased,  and  during  the  passage 
of  the  gas  keep  the  bottle  containing  the  distilled  water  at  or  below  10°  C.  (50°  F.) 
by  surrounding  it  with  cold  water  or  ice.  Finally,  pour  the  sulphurous  acid  into 
glass-stoppered,  dark  amber-colored  bottles,  and  keep  them  in  a cool  and  dark  place. — U.  S. 

If  a safety-tube  be  inserted  in  the  apparatus,  the  delivery-tube  may  be  allowed  to  reach 
to  near  the  bottom  of  the  distilled  water.  The  gas  which  is  not  absorbed  must,  to  avoid 
inconvenience,  be  conveyed  either  into  the  open  air,  into  a flue,  or,  as  directed  above,  into 
an  alkaline  solution,  where  it  will  be  absorbed. 

The  process  of  the  British  Pharmacopoeia  is  essentially  the  same:  the  gas  evolved  from 
4 fluidounces  of  sulphuric  acid  and  1 ounce  of  wood  charcoal  is  washed  by  passing  it 
through  2 ounces  of  water  and  conducted  into  20  fluidounces  of  distilled  water. 

The  charcoal  acts  as  a reducing  agent  upon  the  sulphuric  acid,  generating  carbon 
dioxide  and  sulphurous  anhydride  and  water  ; thus  : C2  -f-  4H2S04  = 2C02  -f-  4S02  + 
4H20.  The  gas  is  therefore  contaminated  with  carbon  dioxide,  which  will  likewise  be 
retained  by  the  distilled  water  to  a slight  extent.  A purer  acid  is  obtained  by  heating 
copper  clippings  with  concentrated  sulphuric  acid,  when  copper  sulphate  and  sulphurdi- 
oxide  will  be  produced  ; Cu2  + 4H2S04  = 2CuS04  + 2S02  -(-  4H20.  Double  the  quantity 
of  sulphuric  acid  will  be  necessary  to  produce  the  same  amount  of  sulphurous  acid  as  is 
produced  by  the  official  process. 

Properties  and  Tests. — Sulphur  dioxide  consists  of  1 measure  of  gaseous  sul- 
phur and  2 of  oxygen,  condensed  to  2 measures ; it  is  a colorless,  irrespirable  gas,  has  a 
pungent  and  suffocating  odor,  and  condenses  to  a liquid  at  — 17.8°  C.  (0°  F.)  or  under  a 
pressure  of  4 or  5 atmospheres ; this  liquid  boils  briskly  on  coming  into  contact  with  ice. 
Water  dissolves  at  10°  C.  (50°  F.)  51  volumes,  and  at  20°  C.  (68°  F.)  36  volumes,  of 
sulphur  dioxide  ; the  solution  contains  sulphurous  acid,  H2S03  = (OH)2SO,  and  when  sat- 
urated at  ordinary  temperature  has,  according  to  Anthon  (1860),  the  density  1.046  and 
contains  9.54  per  cent.  S02.  The  density  of  sulphurous  acid  of  different  strength  has 
been  ascertained  as  follows : 


1 

Per  ct. 

Specific  gravity. 

Per  ct. 

Specific  gravity. 

Per  ct. 

Specific  gravity. 

S02. 

Anthon, 

Scott,  Hager, 

S02. 

Anthon, 

Scott, 

Hager, 

S02. 

Anthon, 

Scott, 

Hager, 

med.  temp. 

15°  C.  ; 17.5°  C. 

med.  temp.. 

15°  C. 

17.5°  C. 

med.  temp.  | 

15°  C. 

17.5°  C. 

10.00 

1.052  1.044 

6.68 

1.027 

3.82 

1.016 

9.54 

1.046 

6.50 

1.035 

1.027 

3.50 

1.019 

1.014 

9.50 

1.049  1.041 

6.00 

1.033 

1.025 

3.00 

1.017 

1.012 

9.00 

1.047  1.039 

5.72 

1.023 

2.86 

1.013  ! 

8.59 

1.036 

5.50 

1.030 

! 1.023 

2.50 



1.014 

1.010 

8.50 

1.045  1.037 

5.00 

1.027 

1.021 

2.00 

; 1.011 

1.008 

8.00 

1.042;  1.035 

4.77 

1.020 

1.90 

i 1.009 

7.63 

1.031 

4.50 



1.025 

i 1.019 

1.50 

1.008 

i 1.006 

7.50 

1.040  1 1.033 

1 4.00 

1.022 

1.017 

0.95 

1 1.005 

7.00 

I 1.037  i 1.030 

! 

A LTD  U3I  SULPHVROSVM. 


105 


Strength  and  density,  as  given  by  the  IT.  S.  Pharmacopoeia,  correspond  with  the  above 
table;  those  given  by  the  Br.  Pharm.  also  very  nearly.  Both  authorities  determine 
the  strength  by  iodine,  1 atom  of  which  will  be  converted  into  hydriodic  acid  by  •>  mole- 
cule of  sulphur  dioxide  ; hence  2 Gm.  of  the  pharmacopoeial  sulphurous  acid,  properly 
diluted,  will  not  acquire  a permanent  blue  color  with  starch-paste,  until  at  least  40  Cc. 
of  the  volumetric  solution  of  iodine  have  been  added  ( U.  8.),  or  1000  grain-measures  of 
the  latter  should  oxidize  64  grains  of  sulphurous  acid  (i?r.)  ; I2  -f-  H2SO;(  -+-  H20  yield 
H2S04  + 2HI. 

The  aqueous  solution  of  sulphurous  acid  evaporates  by  heat  without  leaving  any  residue ; 
in  contact  with  air  it  is  oxidized  to  sulphuric  acid,  and  when  exposed  to  light  it  acquires 
the  property  of  precipitating  silver  sulphide  from  silver  nitrate.  Barium  chloride,  slightly 
acidulated  with  hydrochloric  acid,  yields  no  precipitate  with  it,  or  only  a slight  turbidity. 
The  gas  remains  with  the  water  when  the  solution  freezes,  and  at  the  boiling  temperature 
some  time  must  elapse  before  it  is  entirely  expelled. 

Sulphurous  acid  is  a powerful  deoxidizing  agent,  abstracting  oxygen  from  permanganic, 
chromic,  iodic,  arsenic,  nitric,  and  other  acids,  from  ferric,  mercuric,  argentic,  and  other 
salts,  and  from  most  vegetable  colors,  thereby  bleaching  the  latter.  It  yields  hydrogen 
sulphide  and  water  when  in  contact  with  nascent  hydrogen.  It  displaces  carbon  dioxide 
from  carbonates,  and  yields  salts  which  generally  are  sparingly  soluble  in  water, 
except  the  alkali  sulphites  ; they  are  inodorous,  have  a somewhat  acrid  taste,  and  on  igni- 
tion are  converted  into  sulphate  and  sulphide,  or  sulphur  dioxide  is  given  off,  the  metallic 
oxide  remaining. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Sulphurous  acid  is  employed  in  the  preparation  of 
sodium,  calcium,  and  other  sulphites,  and  of  calomel  by  the  wet  process,  and  serves  as  a 
powerful  reducing  agent.  In  pharmacy  and  the  arts  it  is  used  for  bleaching  sponges, 
bones,  straw,  and  other  organic  matters,  for  removing  fruit-stains,  and  for  arresting  or 
preventing  fermentation  and  putrefaction. 

Action  and  Uses. — As  stated  elsewhere  (v.  Sulphur ),  the  fumes  of  burning 
sulphur  were,  from  a remote  antiquity,  employed  to  disinfect  temples  and  houses  (as 
Homer,  Ovid,  and  Pliny  relate),  and  for  this  purpose  and  for  bleaching  woollen 
cloths  they  continued  to  be  used  until  they  were  superseded  by  chlorine.  It  seems  prob- 
able that  the  irritating  quality  of  the  vapors  caused  greater  virtues  to  be  ascribed  to 
them  than  they  possess.  In  the  last  and  early  part  of  the  present  century  sulphurous 
acid  was  used  in  the  treatment  of  scabies  and  other  contagious  affections,  as  well  as  of 
rheumatism,  neuralgia,  and  paralysis.  From  about  1875  experiments  made  by  Petten- 
koffer  and  others  led  to  the  use  of  sulphur  fumes  for  disinfecting  ships  and  hospitals. 
It  seemed  to  be  admitted  that,  except  in  the  presence  of  water,  they  were  of  little  use ; 
yet  under  official  pressure  they  were  generally  employed  in  Europe  (Dujardin-Beaumetz, 
Bull,  de  Therap.,  cxv.  390,  etc.).  It  was  admitted  that  in  watery  solution  the  acid  could 
destroy  insects,  including  fleas,  lice,  and  bedbugs,  and  also  the  contagious  power  of  vaccine, 
glanders.  Oriental  plague,  and  cattle  plague  ( Practitioner , xxxiii.  189),  but  that  in  this 
form  its  corrosive  action  upon  woven  fabrics  and  various  articles  of  furniture  was  more 
injurious  than  when  perfectly  dry.  The  study  of  the  subject  by  Sternberg  ( Med . News, 
xlvi.  343)  led  him  to  conclude  that  the  acid  does  really  deprive  vaccine  matter  of  its 
activity  when  the  latter  is  retained  in  an  atmosphere  containing  1 per  cent,  of  the  acid, 
and  also  that  in  comparatively  weak  aqueous  solutions  it  destroys  the  vitality  of  various 
micrococci ; but  that  the  conditions  of  its  success  on  a large  scale  in  practice  render 
much  of  the  “ disinfection  ” ascribed  to  it  illusory.  Even  admitting  that  “ in  the  absence 
of  spores,  micro-organisms  suspended  in  the  atmosphere  or  attached  to  the  surface  of 
objects  may  be  destroyed  by  sulphur  dioxide  when  generated  in  a sufficient  quantity  in 
a well-closed  apartment  and  in  the  presence  of  moisture,  the  question  remains  whether 
the  same  object  may  not  be  as  well  accomplished  by  thorough  ventilation  and  by  wash- 
ing all  surfaces  with  a 1 : 1000  solution  of  mercuric  chloride.”  Experiments  made  by 
Dr.  Biggs  led  him  to  conclude  that  sulphurous  acid  gas  in  100  volume  per  cent,  under 
pressure  will  destroy  most  forms  of  micro-organisms  except  the  spores  of  bacilli ; it  will 
not  destroy,  but  retard  the  growth  of,  permanent  spores  (. Med . Neics,  li.  706 ; compare 
Edson,  Med.  Record,  xxxvi.  533 ; Aubert,  Bull,  de  Therap.,  cxviii.  54). 

Favus  of  the  scalp  and  other  hairy  parts  has  been  successfully  treated  by  means  of 
lotions  containing  1 part  of  the  acid  to  3 of  water,  after  removal  of  the  crusts  by  means 
of  emollient  poultices.  As  already  stated,  it  has  been  used  to  cure  scabies.  Whooping 
cough  is  said  to  have  been  cured  by  keeping  the  patients  in  rooms  where  sulphur  had 
been  burned  ( Practitioner , xxxviii.  372  ; xli.  120).  The  acid  has  been  used  in  a gargle  for 


106 


ACIDUM  TANNICUM. 


ulcerated  and  gangrenous  pharyngitis,  and  for  diphtheria  when  diffused  through  the  air 
of  the  patient’s  room  and  in  conjunction  with  warm-water  vapor  ( Edinb . Jour.,  xxxiv. 
724).  Pulmonary  phthisis  has  also  been  treated  by  confining  patients  affected  with  it  for 
a certain  space  of  time  every  day  to  a room  filled  with  sulphurous  acid  vapor.  Dujardin- 
Beaumetz,  Sollaud,  and  Balbaud  ( Bull . de  Therap.,  cxiii.  165,  276;  Bull,  et  Mem.  Soc. 
Therap.,  1887,  p.  200)  have  testified  that  in  non-febrile  cases,  under  its  influence,  the 
cough  and  expectoration  diminish,  while  the  appetite,  strength,  flesh,  and  sleep  improve. 
These  statements  have  not  been  confirmed.  Hypodermic  injections  made  in  the  tro- 
chanterian  notch  of  a saturated  solution  of  sulphurous  acid  in  vaseline  have  been  employed 
for  the  same  purpose,  but  with  no  demonstrable  benefit  ( Bull . de  Therap.,  cxiii.  132 : 
cxiv.  160).  As  a lotion  for  recent  wounds  the  acid  has  been  said  to  allay  pain,  diminish 
suppuration,  and  promote  cicatrization,  and  it  has  been  recommended  in  a gargle  for 
ulcerated  and  gangrenous  pharyngitis.  In  many  other  local  affections  requiring  an  anti- 
septic and  stimulant  medication  it  is  stated  to  be  useful,  as  well  as  internally  in  the 
treatment  of  urticaria  and  dyspeptic  flatulence ; but  for  the  latter  the  sulphites  are  pre- 
ferable. It  may  also  be  employed  to  disinfect  the  dejections  of  the  sick,  and  in  lotions  to 
diminish  the  contagiousness  of  eruptive  fevers. 

The  dose  of  sulphurous  acid  is  Gm.  4-12  (f^j-iij),  largely  diluted.  For  inhalation 
the  following  method  is  suggested  by  Dujardin-Beaumetz  : Select  a small  room  of  known 
capacity  ; close  perfectly  all  openings  into  it ; burn  within  it  flowers  of  sulphur  ignited 
by  means  of  alcohol  poured  upon  their  surface ; begin  by  small  quantities,  such  as  Gm 
5 (gr.  lxxv),  and  daily  increase  the  amount  by  Gm.  5 (gr.  lxxv)  until  it  reaches  Gm. 
20  (3v).  Let  this  be  done  two  hours  before  the  patient  enters  the  room,  and  let  him 
remain  therein  for  four  hours.  “ The  fumes  do  not  change  the  color  of  paper-hangings 
or  woven  fabrics.” 

ACIDUM  TANNICUM,  U.  Br B.  G.— Tannic  Acid. 

Acidum  gallo-tannicum,  Tanninum. — Digallic  Acid,  Tannin,  E. ; Acide  tannique,  Tannin, 
Fr. ; Gerbsdure , Tannin,  G. ; Acido  tannico , It.,  Sp. 

Formula  C14H10O9  = (C6H2)2.(OH)5.OCO.COOH.  Molecular  weight  321.22. 

Origin  and  Varieties. — Compounds  having  acid  properties  and  an  astringent  taste, 
producing  dark-colored  solutions  or  precipitates  with  salts  of  iron,  and  precipitating  gela- 
tin and  albumen  from  their  solutions,  are  called  by  the  generic  name  of  tannins.  The 
reaction  of  tannins  with  metallic  salts,  and  one  of  their  principal  products,  leather,  were 
known  in  ancient  times;  but  Deyeux  (1793)  and  Seguin  (1795)  first  proved  tannin  to  be 
a distinct  compound.  The  tannins  are  conveniently  arranged  into  two  groups,  according 
to  the  color  produced  with  ferric  salts,  which  is  either  dark-green  or  dark-blue.  A large 
number  of  plants  contain  tannin  of  the  latter  group,  differing,  however,  from  the  official 
tannic  acid  in  not  furnishing  gallic  acid  or  pyrogallol.  The  tannin  obtained  from  nutgalls 
is,  for  this  reason,  distinguished  from  the  others  by  the  prefix  gallo.  Gallotannic  acid  has 
been  found  in  the  official  galls,  in  Chinese  and  Japanese  galls,  in  the  cups  of  the  fruit 
of  some  oaks,  and  in  the  leaves  of  Italian  sumach,  Rhus  Coriaria,  Linne. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Nutgall  in  fine  powder,  Ether,  each  a sufficient  quantity. 
Expose  the  nutgall  to  a damp  atmosphere  for  2 or  3 days,  and  afterward  add  sufficient 
ether  to  form  a soft  paste.  Let  this  stand  in  a well-closed  vessel  for  24  hours ; then, 
having  quickly  enveloped  it  in  a linen  cloth,  submit  it  to  strong  pressure  in  a suitable 
press,  so  as  to  express  the  liquid  portion.  Reduce  the  pressed  cake  to  powder,  mix  it  with 
sufficient  ether,  to  which  one-sixteenth  of  its  bulk  of  water  has  been  added  to  form  again 
a soft  paste,  and  express  as  before.  Mix  the  expressed  liquids,  and  expose  the  mixture 
to  spontaneous  evaporation  until,  by  the  aid  subsequently  of  a little  heat,  it  has  acquired 
the  consistence  of  a soft  extract ; then  place  it  on  earthen  plates  or  dishes  and  dry  it  in  a 
hot-air  chamber  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  212°  F. — Br. 

The  process  is  that  proposed  by  Domine  in  1844,  and  based  upon  that  of  Leconnet, 
first  published  in  1836,  the  important  modification  being  the  exposure  of  the  powdered 
galls  to  a damp  atmosphere,  and  the  addition  of  water  to  the  ether  in  order  to  supply 
the  water  requisite  for  rendering  the  tannin  soluble  in  the  ether.  That  water  is  abso- 
lutely necessary  was  noticed  by  Pelouze  (1834),  who  percolated  powdered  nutgalls  with 
commercial  ether  containing  water — a process  suitable  for  preparing  tannin  on  a small 
scale ; the  percolate  separates  into  two  slightly-colored  layers,  the  lower  of  which  is  a 
very  concentrated  solution  of  tannin.  Domine’s  plan  brings  about  the  same  result  in 


A C1D  UM  TA  NNICUM. 


107 


less  time  and  with  much  less  ether.  Mohr,  Guibourt,  and  others  used  a mixture  of  ether, 
alcohol,  and  water. 

Gallotannic  acid  is  insoluble  in  absolute  ether,  but  in  the  presence  of  a little  water  a 
definite  compound  appears  to  be  formed  of  tannin  and  ether,  or  with  water  in  addition 
thereto,  which  is  insoluble  in  ether,  but  may  be  dissolved  in  water ; the  ether  retained  in 
this  syrupy  liquid  is  larger  in  quantity  than  would  be  dissolved  by  the  same  amount  of 
water.  The  complete  drying  of  the  tannin  is  effected  at  a somewhat  elevated  tempera- 
ture, by  which  the  volatile  ingredients  of  the  syrupy  liquid  cause  the  latter  to  froth  up, 
leaving  the  tannin  behind  in  loose,  porous  masses  somewhat  sponge-like  in  appearance. 
It  is  scarcely  necessary  to  state  that  during  the  entire  process  contact  with  most  metals, 
notably  with  iron,  must  be  avoided ; the  operations  are  best  performed  in  glass,  porcelain, 
or  earthen  vessels. 

For  the  manufacture  of  tannin  on  a large  scale  other  and  better  methods  are  now  fol- 
lowed ; for  instance,  moderately  finely  powdered-  galls  are  treated  with  water  heated  to 
40°  or  60°  C.  (104°— 140°  F.)  until  the  powder  is  exhausted  and  a concentrated  solution 
obtained ; this  is  allowed  to  settle,  and  then  filtered  into  a churn-like  vessel  provided 
with  numerous  paddles.  To  the  liquor  is  now  added  about  one-fourth  of  its  volume  of 
ether  (sp.  gr.  0.750),  and  the  mixture  thoroughly  agitated;  when  the  resulting  emulsion 
is  allowed  to  stand  for  ten  or  twelve  days  it  separates  into  two  distinct  layers,  the  upper 
ethereal  layer  being  a solution  of  resin,  fat,  gallic  acid,  and  coloring  matter,  while  the 
lower  aqueous  layer  contains  the  tannin  with  some  few  impurities.  After  separation  the 
tannin  solution  is  concentrated  in  a still  to  a syrupy  consistence,  and  then  spread  on 
plates  of  sheet  tin,  which  are  warmed,  so  that  the  tannin  may  be  obtained  as  dry,  spongy 
masses;  the  syrupy  liquid  may  also  be  spread  on  glass  plates,  which  are  then  heated  in 
drying  ovens  to  110°  C.  (230°  F.).  This  ether-tannin  will  be  nearly  white  and  contain  but 
very  slight  impurities.  Two  other  varieties,  less  pure,  are  met  with,  known  as  alcohol- 
tannin  and  water-tannin  ; the  former  is  made  by  extracting  nutgall  with  50  per  cent, 
alcohol,  carefully  filtering,  and  concentrating  the  solution,  which  is  finally  evaporated  in 
a vacuum.  Water-tannin  is  extracted  similarly  to  ether-tannin,  but  instead  of  adding 
ether  the  solution,  after  filtration,  is  concentrated  to  dryness  in  a vacuum  apparatus 
(Trimble,  The  Tannins , 1892).  Pure  tannic  acid  has  been  obtained  by  Gartenmeister 
by  exhausting  powdered  galls  with  acetic  ether,  and  a patent  has  been  granted  for  the 
process  in  Germany.  The  acetic-ether  solution  is  concentrated,  and  thoroughly  agitated 
with  water,  which  forms  an  emulsion  from  which  the  impurities  are  removed  by  cen- 
tifrugal  action  and  admixture  of  charcoal  or  pumice-stone.  Finally,  the  aqueous  solution, 
almost  free  from  color,  is  evaporated  to  dryness  by  appropriate  means.  The  so-called 
crystallized  tannic  acid  offered  by  E.  Schering  is  simply  finely-spun  tannin  obtained  in 
thin  threads  by  forcing  a concentrated  solution  through  finely-perforated  sieves,  and 
allowing  the  mass  to  fall  from  a height  of  fifteen  feet  or  more  on  to  rapidly-revolving 
wood  cylinders. 

Properties. — Tannic  acid,  thus  prepared,  has  a yellowish-white  color,  frequently  of 
a slight  greenish  tint.  It  has  a strongly  astringent  taste,  and  is  freely  soluble  in  water, 
alcohol  (0.6  part),  acetone,  oil  of  bitter  almond,  and  in  1 part  of  glycerin,  when 
moderately  heated;  but  remains  pulverulent  when  in  contact  with  anhydrous  ether 
which  is  free  from  alcohol,  and  is  likewise  insoluble,  or  nearly  so,  in  absolute  alcohol, 
chloroform,  petroleum  benzin,  benzene,  carbon  disulphide,  and  in  most  fixed  and  volatile 
oils.  The  solutions  have  an  acid  reaction.  Tannin  being  less  soluble  in  acidulated  water 
and  in  solutions  of  certain  salts  than  in  pure  water,  its  aqueous  solution  is  precipitated 
by  mineral  and  certain  organic  acids,  by  the  chlorides  and  several  other  salts  of  the 
alkalies,  these  precipitates  being  again  soluble  in  water.  Tannin  renders  iodine  soluble 
in  water,  and  prevents  the  reaction  of  the  latter  upon  starch  ; this  behavior  has  been 
recommended  by  F.  Jean  for  the  estimation  of  tannin.  It  yields  precipitates  with  the 
alkaloids  and  many  so-called  neutral  principles,  with  lime-water,  most  metallic  salts,  with 
starch,  albumen,  and  gelatin.  The  latter  precipitate  is  soluble  in  solutions  of  gelatin 
and  of  tannin,  but  insoluble  in  water  and  aqueous  solutions  of  certain  salts  (see  Gela- 
tina)  ; this  tannate  of  gelatin  is  formed  in  the  tanning  of  hides,  and  is  an  important 
constituent  of  leather.  With  solutions  of  pure  ferrous  salts  no  change  takes  place  in 
the  absence  of  oxygen,  but  ferric  salts  give  at  once  in  diluted  solutions  a deep-blue 
color,  and  in  more  concentrated  solutions  a bluish-black  precipitate,  with  a reduction  to 
ferrous  compounds.  In  the  presence  of  alkalies  and  in  contact  with  air  solutions  of  tannin 
rapidly  assume  a brown  color.  On  the  application  of  heat  tannic  acid  is  decomposed,  and 
pyrogallol  sublimes  at  212°  C.  (419°  F.),  leaving  metagallic  acid  behind,  which  is  a black, 


108 


ACIDUM  TANNICUM. 


tasteless  substance,  insoluble  in  water,  soluble  in  alkalies,  and  by  heat  finally  consumed 
without  leaving  any  residue.  The  odor  adhering  to  tannic  acid  may,  according  to  Procter 
(1864),  be  removed  by  benzin,  together  with  some  coloring  matter. 

Composition. — The  impossibility  of  obtaining  tannic  acid  in  the  crystallized  state 
has  rendered  the  determination  of  its  composition  very  difficult.  A brief  review  of  the 
widely-differing  views  held  by  various  chemists  will  be  found  under  Acidum  Gallicum. 
The  latest  investigations  on  the  subject  appear  to  furnish  conclusive  proof  that  chemically 
pure  tannin  must  be  viewed  as  an  anhydride  of  gallic  acid,  and  that  1 molecule  of  it  rep- 
resents 2 molecules  of  the  latter,  minus  1 of  water.  This  relation  is  seen  from  the  follow- 
ing equation:  2(C6H2(OH)3.COOH),  gallic  acid,  — H20=(C6H2)2.(0H)5.0C0.C00H,  tannin 
= C14H10O9,  which  is  the  formula  of  Mulder  (1848).  The  official  tannin  is  contaminated 
with  an  odorous  principle,  some  coloring  matter,  and  variable  quantities  of  glucose  coim 
bined  with  tannin. 

Tannin  dissolved  in  water  or  in  diluted  alcohol  is  gradually  converted  into  gallic  acid ; 
occasionally  ellagic  odd , C14H809,  is  also  formed.  The  latter  is  insoluble  in  ether,  only 
sparingly  soluble  in  hot  water  and  alcohol,  and  in  contact  with  excess  of  potassa  becomes 
dark-red,  and  finally  black. 

Impurities. — -Tannic  acid  should  burn  from  platinum-foil  without  leaving  more  than 
0.2  per  cent,  of  ash,  and  be  completely  soluble  in  5 parts  of  alcohol  (dextrin  insoluble) 
and  the  same  proportion  of  warm  water  (resin  insoluble),  both  solutions  being  nearly 
transparent.  The  latter  solution  should  not  be  precipitated  on  mixing  it  with  twice  its 
volume  of  alcohol. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Tannin  is  employed  in  the  preparation  of  various  proxi- 
mate principles. 

Estimation. — The  estimation  of  tannin  and  the  valuation  of  the  various  tanning 
materials  is  connected  with  considerable  difficulty,  and  often  requires  to  be  modified 
according  to  the  nature  of  other  organic  compounds  present. 

Yon  Schroder's  modification  of  Lowenthal’s  method,  although  by  no  means  free  from 
defects,  is  looked  upon  as  the  most  reliable  for  technical  analysis : it  was  adopted  by  a 
committee  of  German  chemists  in  1885.  The  method  combines  Hammer’s  suggestion 
for  the  use  of  hide-powder  with  Lowenthal’s  for  potassium  permanganate  in  presence  of 
indigo ; the  value  of  the  permanganate  solution  for  a known  quantity  of  pure  tannin 
before  and  after  treatment  with  hide-powder  must  first  be  established,  solution  of  sodium 
sulphindigotate  being  used  as  indicator ; it  is  assumed  that  when  the  color  of  the  indigo 
solution  changes  to  a pure  golden-yellow  (evidence  of  complete  oxidation)  all  the  tannin 
present  will  also  have  been  oxidized  by  the  permanganate.  The  necessary  reagents  are 
(1)  a solution  of  pure  potassium  permanganate  of  the  strength  of  10  6m.  to  6000  Cc. 
of  distilled  water ; (2)  a solution  of  30  Gm.  of  pure  sodium  sulphindigotate  in  3000  Cc. 
of  dilute  sulphuric  acid  ( 1 vol.  acid,  5 vols.  water) — after  filtration  3000  Cc.  more  of 
water  are  added ; (3)  white  woolly  hide-powder,  which  yields  to  distilled  water  nothing 
capable  of  reducing  the  permanganate  solution  ; (4)  strictly  pure  tannin.  The  indigo 
solution  should  be  tested  separately,  and  20  Cc.  of  the  same,  when  diluted  with  750  Cc. 
of  water,  should  require  about  10.7  Cc.  of  the  permanganate  solution  for  oxidation. 

To  standardize  the  tannin  value  of  the  permanganate  solution,  10  Cc.  of  a solution  of 
pure  tannin  (2  Gm.  to  1000  Cc.)  are  added  to  20  Cc.  of  indigo  solution  and  750  Cc. 
of  water ; the  KMn04  solution  is  cautiously  added  until  the  color  changes  to  pure 
yellow.  50  Cc.  of  tannin  solution  are  now  macerated  with  3 Gm  of  hide-powder,  pre- 
viously well  moistened  and  expressed,  for  eighteen  or  twenty  hours  with  frequent  agita- 
tion, filtered,  and  10  Cc.  of  the  filtrate  added  to  20  Cc.  indigo  solution  and  750  Cc.  of 
water ; the  mixture  is  titrated  with  KMn04  solution  as  before,  the  difference  between 
the  first  and  second  titrations  representing  the  tannin  or  oxidizable  matter  removed  by 
the  hide.  From  these  data  the  tannin  value  per  cubic  centimeter  of  permanganate  solu- 
tion is  readily  calculated.  For  subsequent  estimation  of  tannin  in  infusions  or  otherwise 
the  same  reagents  must  be  employed,  and  the  liquid  to  be  tested  should  contain  a 
quantity  of  tannic  acid  corresponding  to  not  less  than  4 nor  more  than  10  Cc.  of  perman- 
ganate solution. 

Action  and  Uses. — When  administered  in  moderate  doses  tannic  acid  causes  con- 
stipation, at  least  at  first,  but  the  state  is  not  made  permanent  by  a continuance  or  even 
an  increase  of  the  dose,  nor  does  it  seem  to  derange  the  digestive  function,  as  a general 
rule.  Occasionally,  however,  it  excites  pain  in  the  stomach  and  bowels,  thirst,  and  eruc- 
tation, and  causes  a coated  tongue,  with  tenesmus  in  defecation.  The  stools  are  gener- 
ally without  faecal  odor.  Tannic  acid  appears  not  to  be  absorbed,  and  not  to  circulate  as 


ACIDUM  TARTARICUM. 


109 


such,  but  to  be  converted  into  gallic  acid.  In  this  form  alone  is  it  found  in  the  blood 
and  urine.  Indeed,  it  could  not  remain  in  the  blood  without  coagulating  it,  as  experi- 
ments on  animals  demonstrate.  But  as  gallic  acid  is  not  an  astringent,  and  as  one  of  the 
best  uses  of  tannic  acid  is  to  control  internal  haemorrhages,  it  is  difficult,  while  admitting 
the  conversion  of  the  one  acid  into  the  other,  to  explain  the  therapeutic  operation  of  the 
latter  in  the  affections  named.  It  would  appear  that  the  haemostatic  and  analogous  qual- 
ities of  tannic  acid  are  due,  not  to  an  action  upon  the  blood,  but  upon  the  blood-vessels, 
by  which  they  become  constringed  and  the  flow  of  the  blood  through  them  is  checked. 
Tannic  acid  has  been  known  to  occasion  extreme  dyspnoea,  cyanosis,  and  an  erythematous 
eruption  ( Practitioner , xxxvii.  37).  Its  application  to  the  fauces  and  nostrils  has  pro- 
duced swelling,  oppression,  and  a diffused  itching  and  eruption  on  the  skin  ( Therap . 
Monatsh .,  iv.  141,  313). 

The  astringent  property  of  this  substance  renders  it  useful  in  relaxed  states  of  the 
gastro-intestinal  mucous  membrane,  such  as  exist  in  certain  forms  of  dyspepsia  (with 
excessive  acid,  mucous,  or  watery  secretion,  or  with  flatulence),  but  still  more  in  chronic 
diarrhsea,  dysentery , lientery , etc.  It  has  even  been  supposed,  when  administered  in  warm 
enemas,  to  check  the  diarrhoea  of  typhoid  fever  and  the  development  of  cholera  ; but  in 
the  absence  of  adequate  and  direct  clinical  proof  it  should  be  remembered  that  these 
diseases  are  not  localized  in  the  lower  portion  of  the  intestinal  canal.  The  presence  of 
fever  usually  contraindicates  it.  It  is  less  used,  although  hardly  less  efficient,  in  chronic 
fluxes  of  other  organs,  which,  when  taken  internally,  it  can  influence  only  through  the 
blood,  as  chronic  bronchitis , whooping  cough , and  phthisis  { Lancet , Mar.  1889,  p.  493)  ; and 
even  in  influenza  it  has  seemed  to  palliate  the  symptoms  (Alison,  Archives  gen.,  Aug. 
1889,  p.  159).  It  often  moderates,  or  even  suspends,  the  night-sweats  pulmonary  consump- 
tion and  those  of  other  hectical  states.  But  it  is  in  haemorrhages  that  tannic  acid  espe- 
cially shows  its  power.  Employed  originally  to  restrain  menorrhagia , it  was  afterward 
used  successfully  in  other  forms  of  uterine  haemorrhage,  including  those  produced  by 
organic  diseases  of  the  womb.  The  more  passive  forms  are  the  most  improved  by  it. 
In  hsematuria,  even  of  organic  origin,  in  passive  haemorrhage  from  the  stomach  and  bowels , 
in  some  cases  of  haemoptysis,  and  also  of  haemophilia,  it  has  displayed  remarkable  efficacy. 
In  haemoptysis  it  is  best  employed  in  an  atomized  solution.  Not  only  in  forms  of  albu- 
minuria with  copious  urination,  but  in  those  in  which  the  secretion  is  scanty,  or  perhaps 
chiefly  in  these,  it  is  said  to  have  been  useful.  Hiller,  who  tested  the  tannate  of  sodium 
in  these  cases,  found  it  to  be  quite  unavailing  to  lessen  the  albuminuria  ( Zeitsch . Min. 
Med.,  vi.  489). 

It  is  very  efficient  as  a direct  or  local  haemostatic  when  finely  powdered  and  applied  to 
a bleeding  part.  It  is  neither  painful  nor  irritating.  It  is,  therefore,  a convenient  appli- 
cation in  haemorrhage  from  the  nose,  vagina,  or  rectum,  from  leech-bites,  varicose  veins, 
etc.  Its  constringing  operation  is  of  great  value  in  producing  the  contraction  of  various 
soft  tissues.  A concentrated  solution,  made  with  an  ounce  of  fresh  tannin  and  6 drachms 
of  water,  has  a syrupy  consistence,  and  is  preferable  to  tannin  itself  for  many  topical 
applications.  It  is  adapted  to  the  treatment  of  wounds,  ulcers,  and  mucous  surfaces.  In 
1866,  Dr.  Richardson  suggested  styptic  colloid,  which  consisted  of  a saturated  solution  of 
tannin  in  alcohol,  to  which  ether  and  then  gun-cotton  were  added  to  saturation,  and  when 
applied  to  a part  rapidly  condensed  and  grew  firm,  so  as  to  arrest  the  discharge  of  blood, 
serum,  or  pus.  It  was  also  used  after  the  surfaces  of  wounds,  fractures,  etc.  had  been 
coaptated,  to  keep  their  edges  from  being  displaced.  More  recently  ( Asclepiad , July, 
1885),  he  had  prepared,  with  ether  boiling  at  90°  F.,  a saturated  solution  of  tannin,  which 
was  afterward  treated  with  collodion  nearly  to  saturation.  It  was  applied  as  a spray,  and 
its  purpose  was  to  maintain  by  its  astringency  the  contraction  of  the  tissues  begun  by 
cold.  It  was  found  to  be  very  efficient,  whether  in  this  form  or  as  a liquid.  Tannin 
forms  a good  dressing  for  burns.  {Jour.  Amer.  Med.  Assoc.,  viii.  487).  A solution  of 
tannic  acid  in  tincture  of  benzoin  (1  part  to  4)  tends  to  repress  the  development  of  vari- 
olous pustules.  A powder  made  with  1 grain  of  tannin  and  30  grains  of  orris-  or  marsh- 
mallow-root has  been  used  as  a snuff  to  arrest  acute  coryza  in  its  forming  stage  ; and  an 
ointment  containing  1 grain  of  tannin  and  2 drachms  of  simple  ointment,  has  been 
applied  to  the  nostrils,  on  a roll  of  soft  linen  or  paper,  for  the  same  purpose  in  infants. 
Powdered  tannin  may  be  used  as  a spuff  in  chronic  coryza,  and  in  the  treatment  of  nasal 
polypi  a 10  per  cent,  solution  in  water  has  also  been  employed.  B.  W.  Richardson  recom- 
mended tannin-wool  (made  by  soaking  cotton-wool  in  water  at  140°  F.;  saturated  with 
tannin,  and  drying  the  wool)  for  treating  ozaena  and  other  diseases  attended  with  factor 
{Med.  News,  lii.  411).  A watery  solution  is  a useful  application  to  sore  nipples , and  an 


110 


ACID UM  TARTARICUM. 


ointment  of  tannin,  or  suppositories  containing  it,  is  a palliative  in  anal  fissure,  haemor- 
rhoids, and  prolapsus  ani.  A solution  of  from  15  to  60  grains  of  tannin  in  about  4 fluid- 
ounces  of  water,  injected  into  the  bladder,  has  sometimes  cured  obstinate  vesical  catarrh. 
Aphthous  ulcers  of  the  mouth , mercurial  salivation , spongy  gums , and  a relaxed  condition  of 
the  mucous  membrane  of  th e pharynx,  are  all  benefited  by  this  astringent.  Introduced 
into  a carious  cavity,  it  often  allays  toothache.  In  coryza  and  the  other  forms  of  chronic 
mucous  inflammation  mentioned  the  glycerite  of  tannin  has  been  employed,  but  it  is  prob- 
ably less  efficient  than  the  watery  solution.  Injections  of  a solution  of  tannic  acid  have 
been  successfully  used  in  gleet  and  leucorrhoea  ; in  the  latter  disease  they  are  very  useful, 
but  less  so  than  the  more  prolonged  application  of  tampons  or  sponges  saturated  with  the 
solution.  Tannic-acid  hip-baths  have  been  recommended  as  more  eligible  than  these 
injections,  etc.  The  latter  method  often  cures  prolapsus  of  the  uterus  due  to  relaxation 
of  the  vagina.  Chronic  inflammations  of  the  conjunctiva,  especially  the  granular  form, 
and  pannus,  have  been  successfully  treated  with  very  finely-powdered  tannin  ; and  injec- 
tions of  a solution  of  this  substance  into  vascular  erectile  tumors  have  been  followed  by 
their  permanent  contraction.  A concentrated  solution  of  tannin  is  one  of  the  best  appli- 
cations to  ingrown  toe-nail,  especially  when  there  are  fungous  growths.  A dentifrice  con- 
taining tannin  and  charcoal  in  equal  proportions  is  very  efficient  in  removing  the  discol- 
oration of  the  teeth  produced  by  preparations  of  iron. 

The  dose  of  tannic  acid  is  from  Gm.  0.20-0.60  (gr.  iij-x),  repeated  according  to  the 
urgency  of  the  case.  It  is  best  administered  in  pill,  except  in  cases  of  haemorrhage, 
when  it  should  be  dissolved  in  pure  water  sweetened  and  flavored.  Lewin  recommends, 
in  order  to  lessen  the  tendency  of  tannic  acid  to  disorder  the  digestive  organs,  that  it  be 
given  as  follows  : R.  Solut.  tannic  acid  in  water  (2  per  cent.),  fj§v  ; the  white  of  one  egg. 
Incorporate  by  shaking.  The  energy  of  this  mixture  appears  to  be  very  slight  if  a 
prompt  astringent  action  is  desired  ; it  may  be  useful  in  the  few  cases  which  call  for  a 
continuous  administration  of  the  medicine.  Externally,  tannic  acid  is  employed  in  a 
watery  solution  containing  Gm.  0.20—0.60  to  Gm.  30  (gr.  iij-x  to  the  ounce).  Its  incor- 
poration in  an  ointment  or  with  glycerin  impairs  its  astringent  action  ; but  it  is  said  that 
2 parts  of  tannic  and  1 part  of  gallic  acid  in  water  are  more  astringent  than  tannic  acid 
alone. 


ACIDUM  TARTARICUM,  U.  8.,  Br.,  P.  G.—' Tartaric  Acid. 

Sal  essentiali  tartari. — D ioxy succinic  acid,  E.  ;.  Acide  tartrique,  Acide  du  tarfre,  Fr. ; 
Weinsdure,  Weinstein s'dure,  G. ; Acido  tartarico,  It.,  Sp. 

Formula  II2C4H406  = (CHOH)2.(COOH)2.  Molecular  weight  149.64. 

Origin. — It  is  met  with  either  free  or  in  combination  with  bases  in  grapes,  sumach- 
berries,  tamarinds,  pineapples,  and  other  acidulous  fruits  ; also  in  other  parts  of  many 
plants.  It  was  first  isolated  by  Scheele  (1769),  and  by  Retzius  (1770)  obtained  in 
crystals. 

Preparation. — The  British  Pharmacopseia  gives  the  following  directions  . Take  of 
Acid  Potassium  Tartrate  45  ounces ; Distilled  Water  a sufficiency;  Prepared  Chalk 
12J  ounces  ; Calcium  Chloride  13J  ounces  ; Sulphuric  Acid  13  fluidounces.  Boil  the 
acid  potassium  tartrate  with  2 gallons  of  the  water,  and  add  gradually  the  chalk,  con- 
stantly stirring.  When  the  effervescence  has  ceased  add  the  calcium  chloride  dissolved 
in  2 pints  of  the  water.  When  the  calcium  tartrate  has  subsided  pour  off  the  liquid 
and  wash  the  tartrate  with  distilled  water  until  it  is  rendered  tasteless.  Pour  the  sul- 
phuric acid,  first  diluted  with  3 pints  of  the  water,  on  the  calcium  tartrate ; mix  thor- 
oughly, boil  for  half  an  hour  with  repeated  stirring,  and  filter  through  calico.  Evap- 
orate the  filtrate  at  a gentle  heat  until  it  acquires  the  specific  gravity  1.21 ; allow  it  to 
cool,  and  then  separate  and  reject  the  crystals  of  calcium  sulphate  which  have  formed. 
Again  evaporate  the  clear  liquor  until  a film  forms  on  its  surface,  and  allow  it  to  cool 
and  crystallize  Lastly,  purify  the  crystals  by  solution,  filtration  if  necessary,  and  recrys- 
tallization. 

This  process  is  the  one'  which  in  its  main  features  is  followed  in  preparing  tartaric  acid 
on  the  large  scale.  An  excess  of  sulphuric  acid  is  necessary  for  the  decomposition  of  the 
calcium  tartrate  to  ensure  the  complete  removal  of  the  calcium,  since  tartaric  acid  does 
not  crystallize  properly  from  a solution  of  acid  calcium  tartrate.  Boiling  the  precipitate 
with  the  sulphuric  acid  is  avoided,  and  digestion  for  two  or  three  days  substituted.  After 
concentration  in  the  vacuum-pan  the  liquid  is  heated  with  wood  charcoal  or  pure  animal 
charcoal  to  remove  coloring  matter,  filtered,  and  crystallized.  The  last  crystallizations 


A CID  UM  TA  R TA  RICTJM. 


Ill 


are  more  or  less  colored,  and,  like  the  mother-liquor,  are  purified  by  digestion  with  wood 
charcoal.  Should  the  free  sulphuric  acid  accumulate  in  the  mother-liquor,  its  partial 
removal  with  milk  of  lime  will  be  necessar}\  Where  calcium  chloride  cannot  be  used  as 
a waste  product  for  the  decomposition  of  the  potassium  tartrate,  the  cheaper  calcium  sul- 
phate is  used  for  the  purpose. 

The  rationale  of  this  process  is  as  follows : Acid  potassium  tartrate  yields  with 
calcium  carbonate  insoluble  calcium  tartrate  and  soluble  potassium  tartrate.  The  solu- 
tion of  the  latter  reacts  with  the  calcium  chloride  or  sulphate,  furnishing  an  additional 
quantity  of  insoluble  calcium  tartrate  and  soluble  potassium  chloride  or  sulphate,  which 
is  removed  by  washing.  The  calcium  tartrate,  when  digested  with  sulphuric  acid,  yields 
sparingly  soluble  calcium  sulphate,  which  precipitates,  and  tartaric  acid,  which,  being 
freely  soluble  in  water,  remains  in  solution  and  is  recovered  by  crystallization.  Large 
clear  and  colorless  crystals  are  best  obtained  in  the  presence  of  a minute  quantity  of  free 
sulphuric  acid. 

A process  was  patented  by  Goldenberg  in  1878,  according  to  which  226  parts  of  nor- 
mal potassium  tartrate,  dissolved  in  1800  parts  of  water,  are  mixed  with  112  parts  of 
burned  lime  previously  slaked  with  16  parts  of  water  ; the  decomposition  is  effected  at 
ordinary  temperatures,  the  greater  part  of  the  calcium  tartrate  being  deposited  as  a 
powder,  from  which  the  potassa  solution  is  easily  filtered  ; the  filtrate  retains  calcium 
tartrate,  which  on  boiling  is  separated  in  flocks. 

The  decomposition  of  argols  by  lime  is  effected  by  heat,  when  the  nitrogenous  prin- 
ciples present  are  decomposed,  with  the  evolution  of  ammonia,  and  the  calcium  tartrate 
is  separated  in  a gelatinous  form,  changing,  however,  to  finely  pulverulent  on  neutralizing 
the  alkaline  liquid  with  hydrochloric  or  sulphuric  acid.  The  brown  calcium  tartrate  is 
collected  on  a filter,  washed,  expressed,  and  decomposed  by  sulphuric  acid,  and  the  solu- 
tion of  tartaric  acid  treated  with  boneblack,  or  once  more  converted  into  the  calcium  salt 
by  boiling  with  lime  and  chalk,  whereby  a much  lighter-colored  precipitate  is  obtained. 

Tartaric  acid  is  now  largely  manufactured  in  the  United  States;  in  1867  over  212,000 
pounds  were  imported  ; in  1882,  only  8 pounds. 

Properties. — Tartaric  acid  crystallizes  in  colorless,  oblique,  rhombic  prisms  or  tables, 
which  are  inodorous  and  have  a strongly  acid  but  agreeable  taste.  They  have  the  specific 
gravity  1.764.  dissolve  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  in  about  0.8  part  of  water,  and  in  2.5  parts  of 
alcohol  ; in  about  0.5  part  of  boiling  water,  and  in  about  0.2  part  of  boiling  alcohol  ; also 
soluble  in  250  parts  of  ether,  but  nearly  insoluble  in  chloroform,  benzene,  or  benzin  ( U.  S.). 

We  found  (1863)  the  density  of  aqueous  solutions  of  tartaric  acid  at  16°  C.  (60.8°  F.) 
to  be  as  follows  : 


i'artaric  acid, 
per  cent. 

Specific 

gravity. 

Tartaric  acid, 
per  cent. 

Specific 

gravity. 

Tartaric  acid,! 
per  cent,  j 

Specific 

gravity. 

Tartax-ic  acid, 
per  cent. 

Specific 

gravity. 

1.00 

1.0044 

15.00 

1.071 

30.00 

1.153 

45.00 

1.240 

2.50 

1.0114 

17.50 

1.083 

32.50 

1.167 

47.50 

1.255 

5.00 

1.023 

20.00 

1.097 

35.00 

1.181 

50.00 

1.271 

7.50 

1.035 

22.50 

1.111 

37.50 

1.195 

52.50 

1.287 

10.00 

1.047 

25.00 

1.125 

40.00 

1.209 

55.00 

1.304 

12.50 

1.059 

27.50 

1.139 

42.50 

1.224 

57.75 

1.325 

The  crystals  contain  no  water  of  crystallization,  are  not  deliquescent  in  the  air,  and 
may  be  heated  to  135°  C.  (275°  F.)  without  losing  weight  (see  below),  but  they  melt, 
and  on  heating  the  mass  to  about  200°  C.  (392°  F.)  it  is  decom- 
posed, with  disengagement  of  water,  carbon  dioxide,  acetic  acid, 
and  other  compounds,  gives  off  the  odor  of  burning  sugar,  and 
leaves  a charcoal  which  ultimately  burns  without  leaving  any 
residue.  In  American  commerce  tartaric  acid  is  usually  found 
in  the  state  of  powder.  The  aqueous  solutions  of  tartaric  acid 
and  of  its  salts  deviate  the  plane  of  polarized  light  to  the  right ; 
hence  the  name  of  dextrotartaric  acid.  Some  grapes  appear  to 
contain  naturally  an  acid  isomeric  with  the  foregoing,  which  is 
called  racemic , uvic,  or  paratartaric  acid.  The  same  acid  is 
obtained  by  heating  for  several  days  in  closed  vessels  tartaric 
acid  with  about  15  per  cent,  of  water  to  175°  C.  (347°  F.)  ; its 
solutions  do  not  affect  polarized  light,  but  some  of  its  salts 
crystallize  in  two  distinct  hemihedric  forms,  one  of  which  con- 
tains the  ordinary  or  dextrotartaric  acid,  while  the  other  contains  1st votartaric  acid , another 


Fig.  9. 


Crystal  of  Tartaric  Acid. 


112 


ACIDUM  TARTARICUM. 


isomeric  form,  turning  the  plane  of  polarized  light  to  the  left.  When  dextrotartrate  of 
cinchonine  is  heated  to  170°  C.  (338°  F.),  it  is  converted  into  paratartrate,  but  at  the 
same  time  a fourth  isomeric  modification  is  obtained,  the  calcium  salt  of  which  crystal- 
lizes after  the  calcium  paratartrate.  This  new  acid  is  meso - (or  inactive ) tartaric  acid , so 
called  because  its  solutions  have  no  effect  upon  polarized  light,  and  the  acid  cannot  be 
resolved  into  dextro-  and  laevotartaric  acids  under  the  same  circumstances  as  racemic 
acid.  Finally,  a fifth  isomeric  acid  may  be  obtained  from  tartaric  acid  by  fusion,  which 
occurs  between  170°  and  180°  C.  (338°  and  356°  F.),  when  without  loss  in  weight 
metatartaric  acid  is  formed,  whose  solution  has  the  same  influence  upon  polarized  light 
as  that  of  the  acid  from  which  it  was  made  ; but  it  is  deliquescent,  and  its  salts  dissolve 
more  freely  in  water  and  crystallize  in  forms  different  from  the  dextrotartrates.  L. 
Pasteur  was  engaged  during  the  years  1847  to  1853  in  investigating  most  of  these  facts. 
These  isomeric  compounds  are,  however,  little  known. 

Tartaric  acid  is  a strong  bibasic  acid,  forming  normal  and  acid  salts,  most  of  which  are 
readily  obtained  in  crystals ; all  are  blackened  by  heat,  and  evolve  an  odor  similar  to  that 
of  burning  sugar. 

The  normal  tartrates,  with  the  exception  of  those  with  an  alkaline  base,  are  nearly  all 
insoluble  or  slightly  soluble  in  water,  but  dissolve  in  diluted  nitric  acid.  Calcium  tartrate 
is  almost  insoluble  in  water,  but  dissolves  in  ammonium  chloride,  acetic  acid,  and  cold 
potassa  solution,  being  precipitated  from  the  latter  on  boiling.  Tartaric  acid,  added  to 
the  concentrated  solution  of  a potassium  salt,  produces  a precipitate  of  acid  potassium 
tartrate  ; a similar  precipitate,  which  is  rather  more  soluble  in  water,  is  produced  with 
ammonium  salts ; the  same  precipitates  are  obtained  with  solutions  of  acid  tartrates  or 
with  neutral  tartrates  dissolved  in  diluted  hydrochloric  acid. 

Impurities. — Tartaric  acid,  heated  upon  platinum-foil,  should  be  consumed  without 
leaving  more  than  a trace  of  ash  (mineral  impurities).  It  should  completely  dissolve  in 
3 parts  of  alcohol  (saline  impurities).  Its  solution  in  10  parts  of  water  is  not  precip- 
itated or  colored  dark  by  hydrogen  sulphide  (lead,  copper,  etc.),  and  is  not  precipitated 
by  barium  chloride  (sulphuric  acid),  by  calcium  sulphate  (oxalic  or  racemic  acid),  or  by 
ammonium  oxalate  (calcium  salts).  1.50  Gm.  of  tartaric  acid  dissolved  in  alcohol,  and 
the  solution  mixed  with  half  its  bulk  of  water  and  of  concentrated  solution  of  potassium 
tartrate,  yields  a precipitate  of  potassium  bitartrate,  which,  after  washing  with  diluted 
alcohol  and  drying,  weighs  1.88  Gm.  A mixture  of  solutions  of  1 part  each  of  tartaric 
acid  and  of  potassium  acetate,  in  3 parts  of  cold  water,  on  being  mixed  with  an  equal  bulk 
of  alcohol,  yields  a precipitate  which,  if  collected  after  two  hours  and  washed  and  dried 
as  stated  before,  should  weigh  between  1.25  and  1.26  parts.  A solution  of  0.75  Gm.  of 
tartaric  acid  requires  for  exact  neutralization  10  Cc.  of  the  volumetric  solution  of  soda, 
or  75  grains  of  the  former  need  990  grain-measures  of  the  latter  (Bri). 

Action  and  Uses. — Given  to  dogs  in  large  and  concentrated  doses,  it  acts  poison- 
ously,  quickening  the  pulse  and  respiration,  and  causing  debility,  spasm,  paralysis,  and 
death,  after  which  the  blood  remains  liquid,  but  the  stomach  is  not  inflamed.  It  is  in 
part  excreted  unchanged  with  the  urine.  It  has  been  given  to  cats  in  large  doses  with- 
out striking  consequences.  In  man,  an  ounce  of  tartaric  acid  dissolved  in  half  a pint  of 
warm  water  is  said  to  have  acted  like  a corrosive  poison,  causing  violent  burning  pain  in 
the  throat  and  stomach,  followed  by  obstinate  vomiting,  and  death  at  the  end  of  nine 
days.  Nearly  the  whole  of  the  alimentary  canal  was  found  highly  inflamed.  But  in 
another  case  6 drachms  of  the  acid  were  taken  within  twenty-four  hours  without  the 
least  inconvenience.  The  alleged  poisonous  action  in  the  first  case  is  therefore  open  to 
doubt. 

Tartaric  acid  is  hardly  ever  prescribed  alone,  but  generally  in  combination  with  alka- 
lies or  their  carbonates  or  with  carbonate  of  magnesium.  It  may  be  used  to  prepare 
whey,  which  is  thought  to  be  febrifuge  and  diuretic  ; and  it  is  said  to  modify  the  unpleas- 
ant taste  of  the  liquid  preparations  of  cinchona,  senna,  and  rhubarb.  Associated  with 
sugar,  mucilage,  and  some  flavoring  extract,  it  serves  to  moisten  the  throat  in  pharyngitis 
and  pulmonary  catarrh;  and  it  is  even  alleged  to  be  capable  of  dissolving  the  false 
membranes  of  diphtheria  (Med.  News  and  Abstract,  Sept.  1881,  p.  536).  It  is  said  to 
correct  the  foetor  of  the  feet  to  which  some  persons  are  subject,,  when  it  is  strewn  as  a dry 
powder  in  the  stockings.  Dose,  Gm.  0.60-2.00  (gr.  x-xxx). 


ACIDUM  VALERIANICUM. 


113 


ACIDUM  VALERIANICUM,  F.  It.— Valerianic  Acid. 

Acidum  valericum. — Acide  valerianique , Acide  valerique , Fr. ; Baldriansaure , Valerian- 
sdure , G.  ; Aci.do  valerianico , F.  It.,  Sp. 

Formula  HC5H902  - (CH3)2.CH.CH2.COOH.  Molecular  weight  101.77. 

Origin  and  Formation. — Valerianic  acid  has  received  its  name  from  valerian-root, 
from  which  it  was  obtained  and  recognized  as  a distinct  acid  by  Grote  (1830)  ; it  has  been 
found  in  the  flowers  of  Anthemis  nobilis,  in  wormwood,  angelica-root,  etc.,  and  in  dolphin 
oil,  obtained  from  Delphinus  globiceps,  Cuvier , by  Chevreul  (1817)*,  who  named  it  dcl- 
phinic  acid ; it  is  found  among  the  products  of  oxidation  of  a large  number  of  organic 
substances,  and  is  prepared  for  medicinal  purposes  almost  exclusively  by  oxidizing 
amylic  alcohol  with  potassium  dichromate  and  sulphuric  acid,  a process  recommended  by 
Balard  (1845). 

Preparation. — Valerian-root  is  distilled  with  water,  the  oil  is  removed  from  the  acid 
distillate,  the  latter  neutralized  with  soda,  and  evaporated  to  dryness.  5 parts  of  this 
residue  are,  according  to  Wittstein  (1845),  dissolved  in  5 parts  of  water,  and  distilled 
with  4 parts  of  sulphuric  acid  diluted  with  8 parts  of  water.  The  oily  portion  of  the 
distillate  is  purified  by  fractional  distillation.  The  yield  is  increased  if  potassium  dichro- 
mate and  sulphuric  acid  are  added  to  the  water  distilled  with  the  root  (Lefort,  1846). 

In  the  preparation  of  valerianic  acid  from  fusel  oil  sodium  valerianate  is  prepared  as 
the  first  step  (for  details,  see  Sodii  Valerianas),  and  this  is  then  distilled  with  sul- 
phuric acid.  To  obtain  a concentrated  acid  B.  J.  Crew  (1860)  manipulates  as  follows  : 
8 parts  of  sodium  valerianate  and  3 parts  of  water  are  mixed,  and  31  parts  of  sulphuric 
acid  gradually  added  to  the  mixture.  Sodium  sulphate  is  formed,  and  the  liberated 
valerianic  acid  rises  as  an  oily  layer  to  the  surface.  The  latter  is  separated,  and  repeat- 
edly agitated  with  small  portions  of  oil  of  vitriol  to  deprive  it  of  water,  which  cannot  be 
separated  by  distillation.  When  the  specific  gravity  of  the  oily  layer  has  been  reduced 
to  below  0.950,  it  is  distilled,  and  that  portion  of  the  distillate  having  the  specific  gravity 
0.940  or  more  is  collected  by  itself,  to  be  dehydrated  by  sulphuric  acid  as  before.  The 
remaining  portion  of  the  distillate,  rather  more  than  half  the  quantity  of  the  whole,  will 
have  the  required  specific  gravity,  0.935.  The  weaker  but  heavier  acid  comes  over  first, 
and  may  be  readily  brought  to  the  specific  gravity  0.945  by  oil  of  vitriol,  when  it  is  again 
ready  for  fractional  distillation  (F.  C.  Musgiller,  1868). 

Properties. — Valerianic  acid  is  a colorless,  thin  oily  liquid,  of  a disagreeable  odor 
resembling  that  of  valerian  and  of  old  cheese,  and  has  a sour,  acrid,  unpleasant  taste,  pro- 
ducing upon  the  lips  and  tongue  the  sensation  of  burning ; diluted  with  water,  the  taste 
is  less  disagreeable,  with  a sweet  after-taste.  When  heated,  valerianic  acid  evaporates 
without  residue,  and  ignited  burns  with  a luminous  flame.  It  is  soluble  at  15°  C.  in  30 
parts  of  water,  and  by  agitation  with  a small  quantity  of  that  liquid  takes  up  about  20 
per  cent,  of  its  weight,  without  losing  its  oily  consistence.  It  dissolves  in  all  proportions 
in  alcohol,  ether,  chloroform,  carbon  bisulphide,  and  volatile  oils,  the  hydrated  acid,  how- 
ever, producing  a turbid  mixture  with  the  last-named  liquids.  The  specific  gravity  is 
0.935,  which  increases  if  the  acid  becomes  more  hydrated;  its  boiling-point  is  175°  C. 
(347°  F.).  Musgiller  ascertained  that  an  acid  of  0.933  specific  gravity  boils  between 
177.2°  and  178.9°  C.  (351°  and  354°  F.)  ; if  of  greater  density  the  boiling-point  is  lower. 
The  hydrate,  C5H10O2.H2O,  has  the  density  0.945,  and  requires  only  25  parts  of  cold  water 
for  solution. 

The  composition  of  valerianic  acid,  C5H10O2,  bears  to  amylic  alcohol,  C5H120,  the  same 
relation  as  acetic  acid  does  to  ordinary  alcohol.  (See  Acetum.)  Hydrogen  being  elimi- 
nated from  the  alcohol  in  the  form  of  water  under  the  influence  of  oxidizing  agents,  the 
remaining  molecule  is  oxidized  to  the  acid  ; C5H120  + 02  yields  HC5H902  + H20.  The 
officinal  acid  is  isopropylacetic  acid.  Three  other  acids  of  the  same  ultimate  composition 
may  be  prepared,  which,  however,  differ  from  the  preceding  in  their  specific  gravities, 
boiling-points,  behavior  to  polarized  light,  and  the  solubility  in  water  of  their  barium  and 
silver  salts. 

The  normal  salts  of  valerianic  acid,  when  perfectly  dry,  are  inodorous ; in  the  presence 
of  moisture,  and  still  more  in  contact  with  carbonic  acid,  they  have  the  odor  of  the  acid ; 
their  taste  is  decidedly  sweet.  Most  of  the  salts  are  soluble  in  water,  several  dissolve 
also  in  alcohol  ; from  these  solutions  valerianic  acid  is  liberated  by  nearly  all  the  mineral 
and  organic  acids,  even  by  acetic  acid. 

Impurities. — The  solubility  of  valerianic  acid,  in  not  less  than  twenty-six  and  not 
over  thirty  times  its  weight  of  water,  affords  a ready  means  of  discovering  the  presence 
8 


114 


ACONITINA. 


of  certain  impurities.  Alcohol  decreases,  and  water,  acetic  acid,  and  butyric  acid  increase, 
the  density  of  valerianic  acid,  and  render  it  more  soluble  in  water,  while  it  becomes  less 
soluble  and  of  less  density  through  the  presence  of  amylic  alcohol,  amylic  aldehyd.  amyl 
valerianate,  and  fixed  oils.  On  adding  ammonia-water  slightly  in  excess  to  valerianic  acid 
a clear  solution  should  be  produced ; this  is  turbid  or  separates  an  oily  layer  in  the  pres- 
ence of  one  or  more  of  the  four  compounds  last  mentioned.  Butyric  acid,  if  present,  will, 
according  to  Laroque  and  Huraut,  produce  with  concentrated  solution  of  acetate  of  copper 
pale-blue  scales  of  copper  butyrate,  while  pure  valerianic  acid  mixed  with  the  same  solu- 
tion yields  a mixture  which  is  transparent  for  several  minutes,  then  separates  oily  drops 
of  copper  valerianate,  which  are  gradually  converted  into  a greenish-blue  crystalline  pow- 
der. Acetic  acid  is  readily  detected  by  neutralizing  the  acid  with  ammonia  and  adding 
to  the  cold  clear  liquid  a slight  excess  of  diluted  ferric  chloride  or  subsulphate,  when  ferric 
valerianate  will  be  precipitated  and  ferric  acetate  form  a deep  brown-red  solution.  Admix- 
tures of  hydrochloric  or  sulphuric  acid  are  detected  in  the  aqueous  solution  of  valerianic 
acid,  after  adding  a little  nitric  acid,  by  the  nitrates  of  silver  and  of  barium. 

Action  and  Uses. — According  to  Beissner’s  experiments  on  animals,  it  coagulates 
albumen,  blood-serum,  and  milk,  and  is  slightly  irritating  to  the  integuments.  Its  odor 
is  not  imparted  to  the  urine  or  the  blood,  but  may  be  perceived  in  the  peritoneal  cavity. 
It  quickens  but  weakens  the  heart’s  action  and  the  respiration,  produces  debility  and  then 
paralysis  of  the  limbs,  and  spasms  before  death ; after  which,  if  it  takes  places  rapidly, 
the  gastric  mucous  membrane  is  pale,  but  if  slowly  this  membrane  and  that  of  the  intes- 
tine are  inflamed,  the  kidneys  congested,  and  the  urine  is  turbid  and  bloody.  The  acid 
is  not  used  in  medicine  except  in  combination,  but  it  is  very  doubtful  if  it  gives  any 
special  properties  to  the  bases  with  which  it  is  associated,  unless  it  does  so  in  valerianate 
of  ammonium.  Amylo-valerianic  ether  is  said  to  possess  all  the  peculiar  virtues  of 
valerianic  acid,  besides  being  anaesthetic,  and  therefore  indicated  in  a variety  of  nervous 
and  neuralgic  disorders  ; e.  g.  gastralgia , dgsmenorrhoea , asthma , etc. 

ACONITINA,  Br.  F.  Cod.— Aconitine. 

Aconitia , Aconitinum. — Aconitine , Fr. ; Aconitin , Gr. ; Aconitina , It.,  Sp. 

Formula  C33H45NOJ.2  (Dunstan  1891).  Molecular  weight  645.54. 

Preparation.— The  outlines  of  the  process  recognized  by  the  British  Pharmacopoeia 
are  as  follows : Coarsely-powdered  aconite-root  is  exhausted  with  alcohol  by  heat- 

ing to  ebullition,  then  cooling,  and  finally  percolating;  the  tincture  is  completely  freed 
from  alcohol  by  distillation  and  evaporation  ; the  extract  is  mixed  with  twice  its  weight 
of  boiling  distilled  water  ; the  mixture  allowed  to  cool  and  filtered  ; the  filtrate  is  pre- 
cipitated by  ammonia  in  slight  excess,  and  the  mixture  heated  gently  over  a water-bath, 
whereby  the  precipitate  forms  a mass  which  is  readily  separated  by  a filter,  and  after  dry- 
ing reduced  to  a coarse  powder,  which  is  exhausted  with  pure  ether ; the  ethereal  liquid 
is  distilled,  the  impure  alkaloid  dissolved  in  warm  distilled  water  acidulated  with  sul- 
phuric acid,  and  when  the  solution  is  cold  ammonia  diluted  with  four  times  its  bulk  of 
distilled  water  is  cautiously  added ; the  precipitate  is  collected  on  a filter,  washed  with  a 
small  quantity  of  distilled  water,  and  dried  by  slight  pressure  between  folds  of  filtering- 
paper. 

The  process  proposed  by  Prof.  Procter  (1861)  as  a modification  of  that  previously 
suggested  by  Headland,  and  adopted  by  the  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia  previous  to  1880, 
yielded  a less  pure  product. 

Duquesnel  (1872)  showed  that  the  use  of  mineral  acids  in  the  preparation  of  aconitine 
causes  the  production  of  amorphous  alkaloids,  while  aconitine  is  not  decomposed  by  tar- 
taric acid ; his  process  is  recognized  by  the  French  Codex,  and,  modified  by  Wright  (1876, 
1880),  is  as  follows:  Powdered  aconite-root  is  exhausted  with  alcohol  containing  0.5 
per  cent,  of  tartaric  acid ; the  alcohol  is  distilled  and  evaporated  at  a low  temperature  or 
in  vacuo  ; the  extract  is  diluted  with  its  own  bulk  of  water,  filtered  from  the  oil  and  resin, 
agitated  with  ether  or  petroleum  naphtha,  whereby  more  resin  is  removed,  and  then  pre- 
cipitated by  excess  of  potassium  carbonate ; the  alkaline  liquid  retains  the  amorphous 
bases  in  solution,  while  the  washed  precipitate,  after  dissolving  in  ether,  mixing  this 
solution  with  petroleum  naphtha,  and  evaporating,  yields  crystallized  aconitine,  which 
still  retains  a small  proportion  of  the  amorphous  alkaloids,  from  which  it  can  be  com- 
pletely freed  only  by  a tedious  and  very  wasteful  process. 

In  Hottot  and  Liegeois’s  process  (1864)  sulphuric  acid  is  used  and  the  alkaloids  are 
precipitated  by  magnesia. 


ACONITINA. 


115 


In  order  to  avoid  the  possibility  of  any  change  during  the  process  of  preparation, 
Professor  Dunstan  (1892,  1893)  has  devised  the  following  method : Exhaust  the 
powdered  drug  with  cold  rectified  fusel  oil  ; shake  the  liquids  with  water  containing  1 
per  cent,  of  H2S04 ; agitate  the  acid  solution  with  chloroform  to  remove  resin  ; make 
alkaline  with  ammonia  and  shake  with  ether,  which  extracts  aconitine  together  with  some 
isaconitine  and  other  bases,  while  aconine , the  greater  part  of  isaconitine,  and  other  bases 
may  be  extracted  from  the  watery  solution  by  chloroform.  The  impure  aconitine  is  puri- 
fied by  recrystallization  as  hydrobromide. 

Wright  (1876)  obtained  from  aconite-root  .03  to  .04  per  cent,  of  his  nearly  pure  aconi- 
tine, or  about  one-third  of  the  total  yield  of  alkaloid  (Groves).  Dunstan  (1893)  states 
that  the  quantity  of  aconitine  is  subject  to  considerable  variation. 

Properties. — Aconitine,  as  obtained  by  the  process  of  the  British  Pharmacopoeia,  is 
a white,  usually  amorphous  solid,  soluble  in  150  parts  of  cold  and  50  of  hot  water,  and 
much  more  soluble  in  alcohol  and  in  ether,  and  in  chloroform  ; it  is  strongly  alkaline  to 
reddened  litmus,  neutralizing  acids ; its  salts  are  precipitated  by  the  caustic  alkalies, 
but  not  by  ammonium  carbonate  or  sodium  or  potassium  bicarbonate.  It  melts  with 
heat  and  burns  with  a smoky  flame,  leaving  no  residue  when  burned  with  free  access 
of  air.  When  rubbed  on  the  skin  it  causes  a tingling  sensation,  followed  by  prolonged 
numbness.  Commercial  aconitine  is  usually  colored  orange-yellow  by  sulphuric  acid, 
changing  to  brown  and  colorless , and  previously  mixed  with  sugar,  it  becomes  rose-red 
with  sulphuric  acid.  But  pure  aconitine  gives  no  characteristic  color  reactions  with 
acids  or  oxidizing  agents  (Groves). 

From  his  researches,  reported  to  the  British  Pharmaceutical  Conference  (1866  to  1874), 
Mr.  T.  B.  Groves  concluded  that  pure  aconitine  occurs  in  two  modifications,  a crystalline 
and  an  amorphous,  differing  mainly  in  their  behavior  to  solvents.  But  C.  B.  Alder 
Wright  (1875  to  1880)  showed  that  the  physiologically  active  and  crystallizable  aconi- 
tine when  heated  with  water  to  140°  or  150°  C.  (284°  or  302°  F.),  or  saponified  with  an 
alkali,  is  decomposed  into  benzoic  acid  (18.92  per  cent.)  and  amorphous  aconine , which 
is  bitter,  not  acrid,  almost  insoluble  in  ether,  dissolves  readily  in  water,  alcohol,  and 
chloroform,  and  is  identical  with  acolyctine.  That  much  of  the  commercial  aconitine 
both  amorphous  and  crystalline,  is  more  or  less  contaminated  with  isaconitine  and  aconine 
has  been  again  shown  by  Dunstan  and  Carr  (1893).  These  and  other  amorphous  bases 
are  with  great  difficulty  removed  by  repeated  crystallization  from  ether  or  ether  and 
petroleum  naphtha,  and  are  best  eliminated  by  crystallization  as  nitrate  or  hydrobromide. 
The  pure  alkaloid  has  an  acrid,  benumbing  taste,  is  nearly  insoluble  in  benzin,  dissolves 
at  22°  C.  in  4430  parts  of  water  or  in  37  of  alcohol,  is  soluble  in  ether,  and  more  freely  in 
chloroform  and  benzene  ; it  melts  at  188°  to  189°  C.,  and  its  hydrobrornide  at  163°,  the 
melting-point  being  lowered  and  the  color  more  darkened  by  the  presence  of  amorphous 
bases.  When  heated  with  aqueous  alkalies  or  mineral  acids  aconitine  is  readily  decom- 
posed. On  being  dissolved  in  ether,  and  the  solvent  allowed  to  evaporate  spontaneously, 
the  last  drop  of  it  should  dry  up  to  crystals  ; the  acid  obtained  on  saponification,  on  being 
fused  at  250°  C.  with  potassa,  the  mass  treated  with  hydrochloric  acid  and  ether,  and 
the  ethereal  solution  evaporated,  should  not  give  a green  color  to  ferric  chloride 
(absence  of  pseudaconitine). 

Pseudaconitine,  C36H49N012  (see  Aconitum),  which  has  been  sometimes  sold  for 
aconitine,  closely  resembles  the  latter  base  in  appearance  and  behavior,  but  may  be  dis- 
tinguished from  it  by  requiring  about  230  parts  of  chloroform,  100  parts  of  boiling  ether, 
and  1508  to  2600  parts  of  diluted  ammonia  of  If  per  cent,  strength  for  solution  ; by  its 
lower  melting-point  (104°  to  105°  C.)  ; and  by  yielding  on  saponification  with  alcoholic 
potassa  26.49  per  cent,  of  veratric  acid.  Its  nitrate  crystallizes  only  from  strongly  acid 
solutions  (Groves). 

Liegeois  and  Hottot  found  that  aconitine  precipitated  from  cold  solutions  contains  25 
per  cent,  of  water,  which  is  given  off  at  85°  C.  (185°  F.),  and  Hager  (1875)  has  directed 
attention  to  this  as  one  source  of  the  variable  strength  of  commercial  aconitine. 

Dr.  Squibb  ( Ephemerh , i.  135)  suggests  that  no  aconitine  should  be  accepted  which, 
will  not  give  within  fifteen  minutes  a distinct  aconite  sensation,  not  amounting  to  tingling 
but  very  suggestive  of  it,  from  of  a grain  (.00008  Gm.)  diluted  to  the  measure  of  1 
fluiddraehm  (3.7  Cc.),  after  holding  the  solution  for  1 minute  in  the  anterior  part  of  the 
previously  well-rinsed  mouth.  Tested  in  this  manner,  he  found  1 grain  of  good  aconite- 
root  to  be  represented  by  1,  g-.  ^ (Merck’s  pseudaconitine),  and  -yj-y  (Duquesnel’s  crys- 
tallized aconitine)  grain  of  different  commercial  samples  of  aconitine.  The  last-named 


116 


ACONITINA. 


sample  (Huquesnel’s)  was  ascertained  ( JEphemeris , i.  167)  to  be  a nitrate  containing  not 
over  80.7  per  cent,  of  the  hydrated  alkaloid. 

Owing  to  the  variable  composition  of  the  commercial  article,  and  the  difficulty  of  ob- 
taining it  quite  pure,  aconitine  has  not  been  admitted  in  the  U.  S.  and  other  pharmaco- 
poeias. 

Action  and  Uses. — When  applied  to  the  sound  skin  in  an  ointment  or  in  alcoholic 
solution  aconitine  produces  itching  and  prickling,  followed  by  anaesthesia  of  the  part  with- 
out redness  or  heat.  In  contact  with  the  derm  it  causes  an  intense  and  prolonged  burn- 
ing, and  it  violently  irritates  the  conjunctiva.  Its  action  on  the  tongue,  fauces,  and 
stomach  produces  burning  and  tingling  sensations.  The  order  in  which  the  different 
organs  are  paralyzed  by  aconitine  is  said  to  be  the  sensory,  and  then  the  motor  nerves, 
the  sympathetic  nerve,  and  finally  the  muscles.  The  respiratory  apparatus  arid  the  heart 
are  affected  through  the  nervous  system,  and  death  is  due  to  a suspension  of  the  respira- 
tion caused  by  the  action  of  the  poison  upon  the  medulla  oblongata.  These  results  have 
been  substantiated  by  Mackenzie.  They  also  agree  essentially  with  those  of  Harley’s, 
the  most  interesting  and  lucid  of  all.  His  experiments  were  performed  on  the  horse, 
dog,  cat,  and  on  man.  Their  results  in  the  lower  animals  were,  summarily,  these  : 
Paralysis  of  the  external  muscles  of  respiration  which  dilate  the  chest ; intermittent 
spasm  of  the  muscles  attached  to  the  upper  part  of  the  chest,  and  of  those  of  the  respira- 
tory passages  ; incomplete  paralysis  of  the  diaphragm  ; increased  frequency  of  the  heart- 
beat proportioned  to  the  impediment  to  the  circulation  ; persistence  of  the  heart-beat 
after  respiratory  death  ; spasm  of  the  pharynx  and  oesophagus ; and  general  debility, 
but  no  muscular  paralysis.  Those  conclusions  were  confirmed  by  Ringer  (1880).  On 
dissection  the  lungs  are  collapsed  and  pale  ; the  heart  retains  its  irritability  for  some  time  ; 
its  left  cavities  are  empty  and  contracted  ; and  the  right  side,  as  well  as  the  large  veins 
leading  to  it,  is  distended  with  dark  blood. 

Fothergill’s  experiments  on  rabbits,  guinea-pigs,  and  cats  show  that  a lethal  dose  of 
aconitine  ceases  to  be  so  if  the  animals  have  had  an  appropriate  dose  of  digitalin  from 
five  to  nine  hours  previously.  In  like  manner,  the  lethal  effects  of  aconitine  are  pre- 
vented by  atropine  and  also  by  strychnine.  “ While  aconitine  kills  by  paralyzing  the 
respiration,  atropine  and  strychnine,  which  act  very  powerfully  on  the  respiratory 
centres,  are  potent  to  prevent  death.”  According  to  Oulmont,  aconitine  displays  physi- 
ological and  therapeutical  action  in  the  dose  of  a quarter  of  a milligram  (gr.  -^d-g-),  but 
may  be  gradually  increased  to  1 and  even  2 milligrams  (gr.  ^ to  -g1^)  a day  without 

injury- 

The  action  of  aconitine  upon  man  is  illustrated  by  Harley’s  observations.  One-two-hun- 
dredth  of  a grain  of  aconitine  taken  internally  caused  slight  tingling  in  the  mouth  and 
face,  lasting  for  several  hours.  (Hr.  Squibb  observed  a like  effect  from  ^ grain  dis- 
solved in  a fluidrachm  of  distilled  water.)  The  one-hundred-and-fiftieth  of  a grain 
occasioned  also  a sense  of  glowing  and  numbness  and  a tendency  to  sleep.  One-fiftieth 
of  a grain  produced  the  following  effects : languor,  giddiness,  sleepiness,  hazy  vision, 
nausea  in  the  erect  posture,  dysphagia,  pain  in  the  back  of  the  neck  and  behind  the 
jaws,  a glowing,  tingling  feeling  over  the  whole  body,  and  burning  heat  in  the  gullet. 
The  sense  of  numbness  and  muscular  weakness  is  comparable  to  that  induced  by  conium. 
A physician  who  took  an  over-dose  of  the  alkaloid  mentions  among  the  symptoms  “ a 
feeling  as  if  a bar  of  iron  extending  from  head  to  foot  rendered  the  body  rigid” 
(. Bull . de  Therap.,  cvii.  30).  To  these  symptoms  may  be  added  colic,  spasmodic  vomiting, 
and  dysphagia  ; in  some  cases  darting  pains  in  the  branches  of  the  fifth  nerve  ; dilatation 
of  the  pupils  ; acceleration,  followed  by  progressive  irregularity  and  debility,  of  the 
heart ; and  a corresponding  infrequency  of  the  respiratory  movements  and  lowering  of 
the  temperature.  In  fatal  cases  the  pulse  is  small,  weak,  and,  above  all,  irregular;  the 
rate  and  rhythm  of  the  respiratory  movements  are  similarly  affected  ; the  skin  is  cold 
and  clammy  ; the  pupils  contracted ; vision  is  impaired  ; there  is  a burning  pain  in  the 
mouth,  extending  along  the  gullet ; a swollen  tongue,  dysphagia,  and  great  prascordial 
anxiety  ; vomiting  usually  occurs,  and  convulsions,  and  consciousness  is  more  or  less 
impaired.  Post-mortem  examination  shows  hypermmia  of  the  stomach  and  small  intes- 
tines, and  the  viscera  generally  are  charged  with  blood.  Cases  of  fatal  poisoning  by 
aconitine  are  very  rare  (Stevenson,  Guy's  H.  R.,  xli.  307  ; Laborde  et  Huquesnel,  Des 
Aconits  et  de  V Aconitine,  1883;  Med.  News , lii.  345).  Oleate  of  aconitine,  2 per  cent, 
strong,  applied  to  the  skin  of  the  upper  eyelid,  occasioned,  in  the  course  of  an  hour,  a 
sense  of  heat  in  the  part,  and  profuse  lachrymation  from  the  eye  and  nostril  of  the  same 
side  (Heyl).  Napelline  appears  to  be  nearly  identical  with  aconitine  in  the  nature  of  its 


A CONITUM. 


117 


effects,  but  their  intensity  is  “ incomparably  less  ” than  those  of  crystallized  aconitine. 
It  is  alleged  to  be  a soporific. 

The  internal  employment  of  this  alkaloid  ought  rarely  to  be  resorted  to,  on  account  of 
its  dangerous  activity  as  a poison.  Aconitine  has  been  administered  in  febrile  diseases 
for  the  same  reason  that  aconite  and  other  sedatives  of  the  heart  have  been  employed, 
and  the  result  has  been  that,  although  the  medicine  lessened  the  frequency  of  the  pulse, 
it  exerted  no  appreciable  influence  upon  the  course  or  issue  of  the  disease.  Such  was  a 
result  of  Harley’s  use  of  the  medicine  in  scarlet  and  typhus  fevers , although  it  appeared 
to  him  that  in  typhus  treated  by  this  medicine  the  crisis  occurred  early.  It  has  also 
been  administered  advantageously  for  the  cure  of  neuralgia  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.0005 
(gr.  and  probably  in  neuralgia  of  the  fifth  pair  there  is  no  remedy  more  efficient. 

It  is  said  to  have  arrested  the  paroxysms  in  cases  which  had  resisted  all  other  reme- 
dies. The  cure  of  some  extremely  aggravated  cases  of  facial  neuralgia  has  been  accom- 
plished by  doses  of  aconitine,  beginning  with  Gm.  0.0004  (gr.  y^-y),  and  gradually 
increased  to  Gm.  0.007  (gr.  Jg-)  three  times  a day  ( e . g.  Weir,  Philad.  Med.  Times,  x.  48). 
But  it  is  chiefly  in  recent  cases  produced  by  cold  that  its  efficacy  is  displayed,  and  particu- 
larly in  neuralgia  of  the  superficial  nerves,  including  those  of  the  scalp  and  face,  and  the 
branches  of  the  spinal  nerves.  The  topical  use  of  the  remedy  should  be  tried  before  it 
is  given  internally.  According  to  Oulmont  and  Gubler,  the  pain  and  fever  of  acute 
articular  rheumatism  are  rapidly  reduced  by  aconitine  given  daily  to  the  amount  of  Gm. 
0.0005  (gr.  yJo').  The  efficacy  of  the  medicine  is  not,  however,  accepted  as  proven,  and 
its  dangerous  qualities  should  deter  from  its  unnecessary  use , which  we  hold  the  treatment 
of  rheumatism  by  its  means  to  be.  Owing  to  the  varying  degrees  of  strength  of  the 
alkaloid  as  found  in  the  shops,  the  primary  dose  should  not  exceed  Gm.  0.0002  (gr.  ^q'). 
It  may  be  repeated  two  or  three  times  a day,  and  given  less  or  more  frequently,  and  in 
smaller  or  larger  doses,  according  to  its  effects.  The  maximum  dose  is  stated  to  be  Gm. 
0.001  (gr.  -£f).  Its  efficiency  is,  however,  much  greater  in  the  form  of  an  ointment, 
which  may  contain  Gm.  0.13—0.30  in  Gm.  4 (2,  or  from  that  to  5,  grains  in  a drachm)  of 
lard,  or  in  the  form  of  a solution  made  by  dissolving  1 grain  of  aconitine  in  2 fluidrachms 
of  alcohol,  Gm.  0.06  in  Gm.  8.00.  Its  mixture  or  solution  is  facilitated  by  chloroform. 
Either  preparation  should  be  applied  with  a soft  brush  or  with  the  finger  protected  by  a 
glove.  Gubler  used  the  medicine  hypodermically  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.0005  (gr.  y^-g) 
twice  a day. 


ACONITUM,  TI.  S.— Aconite. 

Monkshood,  Wolfsbane,  E.  ; Aconit  napel,  Fr.  Cod.;  Coqueluchon,  Fr. ; Eisenhut , Sturm- 
hut,  G. ; Aconito , F.  It.,  Sp. 

Aconitum  Napellus,  Linne,  s.  Ac.  variabile,  Hague,  s.  Ac.  vulgare,  De  Candolle.  Bent- 
ley and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  5,  6,  and  7. 

Nat.  Ord. — Ranunculacese,  Helleboreae. 

Official  Parts. — 1.  Aconitum,  U.  S.,s.  Aconiti  radix,  Br.,  P.  A.;  Tubera  aconiti, 
P.  G. — Aconite-root,  E. ; Racine  d’ aconit,  Fr. ; Akonitknollen,  G.  The  tuberous  root. 
— 2.  Aconiti  Folia,  Br.,  s.  Herba  aconiti. — Aconite-leaves,  E.  ; Feuilles  a’aconit,  Fr.  ; 
Akonitblatter,  G.  The  leaves  and  tops,  gathered  when  about  one-third  of  the  flowers 
are  expanded. — Br. 

Origin. — The  plant,  which  attains  a height  of  about  1 M.  (40  inches),  and  is  very 
variable  in  appearance,  as  indicated  by  one  of  its  specific  names,  is  met  with  throughout 
the  greater  portion  of  Asia  and  Europe,  mostly  in  mountainous  regions.  It  grows  in  the 
Himalaya  Mountains  at  an  altitude  of  from  3000  to  5000  M.  (10,800  to  16,400  feet), 
and  from  there  north  and  west  in  Siberia,  and  in  Europe  south  to  the  Alps  and  Pyre- 
nees. It  is  frequently  cultivated  for  ornament  and  for  medicinal  use,  but  Schroff  (1853) 
found  the  cultivated  plant  far  less  active  than  the  one  grown  wild.  The  poisonous 
properties  of  aconite  had  been  known  in  ancient  times,  when  the  Greek  name,  ahoniton, 
was  applied  to  several  species.  Aconite  was  introduced  into  medicine  by  Stoerck  (1762). 

Description. — 1-  Aconite-root.  The  subterraneous  portion  of  the  plant  consists 
of  a tuber,  which  is  contracted  below  into  a conical  root ; from  a lateral  bud  of  the  tuber 
a short  rhizome  is  produced,  developing  at  its  end  again  into  a tuber,  bearing  a bud  at 
its  top  from  which  the  stem  for  the  succeeding  year  will  be  produced.  This  second 
tuber  is  fully  developed  in  the  fall  of  the  first  year,  and  withers  a year  afterward,  by 
which  time  it  has  produced  fruit  and  developed  another  (the  third)  tuber.  The  parent 
tuber  and  its  offspring  are  often  met  with  in  the  commercial  article  still  united  by  the 


118 


ACONITUM. 


Tubers  of  Aconitura  napellus,  Linne,  with  a transverse 
section. 


short,  rhizome,  or,  if  detached,  showing  the  scar  and  often  a portion  of  this  branch.  As 
met  with  in  commerce,  it  is  of  a conical  shape,  50  to  75  Mm.  (2  to  3 inches)  in  length,  and 
10  to  20  Mm.  (J-  to  | inch)  in  thickness  at  the  crown ; the  numerous  rootlets  are  mostly 

broken  off,  giving  the  tuber  a tuberculated 
Fig.  10.  appearance  from  the  remnants  of  the  radi- 

cles. At  the  top  it  is  crowned  with  a short 
portion  of  the  stem  or  with  the  terminal 
bud.  It  is  of  a dark-brown  color  externally, 
longitudinally  wrinkled,  and  breaks  with  a 
short,  non-fibrous  fracture  ; internally,  it  is 
compact  and  whitish  if  of  latest  growth,  or 
brownish,  porous,  and  often  hollow  if  of  the 
previous  year’s  growth.  The  transverse 
section  shows  a thick  bark,  enclosing  a star- 
shaped six  to  eight-rayed  axis,  having  a 
thin,  vascular  bundle  in  each  ray.  The 
radish-like  odor  of  the  fresh  root  disap- 
pears on  drying  ; the  taste  is  at  first  sweet- 
ish, then  acrid  and  burning,  with  a persist- 
ent sense  of  numbness ; which  effect  fur- 
nishes a good  criterion  of  the  quality  of 
aconite-root ; the  shrivelled  and  porous 
tubers  are  usually  less  efficient.  The  de- 
gree of  impression  produced  upon  the 
tongue  by  aconite-roots  taken  at  random 
from  a larger  quantity  is  regarded  by  Dr. 
Squibb  as  an  approximate  test  of  its  value. 
Dr.  A.  B.  Lyons  (1882)  has  modified  this 
test  by  preparing  a tincture  representing  10  per  cent,  of  the  root,  and  applying  a single 
drop  of  this  to  the  tongue.  By  the  intensity  and  the  duration  of  the  effect  produced  one 
can  judge  pretty  correctly  of  the  value  of  a given  sample. 

Admixtures. — Dr.  Stoerck  appears  to  have  used  the  two  following  blue  flowering 
species  of  aconite,  which  are  still  collected  with  the  typical  form.  The  tubers  of  Aconi- 
tum  Cammarum,  Jacquin  (s.  Ac.  varie- 

gatem , Linne),  are  globular-ovate,  smaller  Fig.  11. 

than  the  preceding,  the  central  axis  about 
five-rayed  and  the  rays  rounded.  Those 
of  Aconitum  Stoerckeanum,  Reichenbach 
(s.  Ac.  Cammarum,  Linne , s.  Ac.  Napel- 
lus, Stoerck ),  are  often  3 to  5,  attached 
to  the  parent  tuber,  of  a slender  conical 
shape,  and  have  the  centre  roundish  pen- 
tagonal in  outline.  The  root  of  Impera- 
toria  Ostruthium,  Linne,  or  European 
masterwort,  resembles  aconite-tubers  in 
shape,  but  has  an  aromatic  odor  and 
pungent  taste,  and  exhibits  upon  trans- 
verse section  numerous  oil-cells  arranged 
in  several  circles. 

2.  Aconite-leaves.  They  are  al- 
ternate, smooth,  petiolate,  5 to  10  Cm. 

(2-4  inches)  in  length,  nearly  orbicular 
in  outline,  somewhat  heart-shaped  at 
the  base  and  divided  to  the  base,  the 
lower  into  five,  the  upper  into  three, 
segments,  each  of  which  is  again  three 
or  sometimes  five-cleft ; the  last  divisions 
are  linear-lanceolate,  often  toothed,  and 
show  a prominent  rib  beneath  and  a 

furrow  above,  which  extends  into  the  petiole,  this  being  of  about  the  length  of  the  leaf. 
The  texture  of  aconite-leaves  is  somewhat  leathery,  their  color  rather  bright-green,  and 
somewhat  shining  above  and  paler  beneath.  In  the  dry  state  they  have  a slight  herb- 


A CONITUM. 


119 


aceous  odor  and  a taste  which  soon  becomes  bitter  and  acrid,  producing  tingling  upon  the 
tongue.  The  leaves  are  usually  mixed  with  a portion  of  the  handsome  purplish-blue 
flowers,  which  grow  in  terminal  racemes,  have  the  upper  sepal  helmet-shaped,  ending  in 
a short  point  curved  upward,  and  enclosing  two  long-stalked  but  short-bladed  petals,  and 
contain  numerous  hypogynous  stamens  and  three  short,  slightly  divergent  ovaries. 

The  leaves  of  Aconitum  Stoerckeanum,  Reichenb are  similar  in  appearance,  but  the 
segments  are  broader  ; those  of  Ac.  Cammarum,  Jacq.,  are  less  deeply  incised  and  have 
nearly  rhomboid  segments. 

Other  Species  of  Aconite. — Bish  or  Bikii  Root,  ( aconit  feroce , F.  Cod.,  also  called  Nepaul  acon- 
ite-root, obtained  from  Aconitum  ferox,  WaUich,  s.  A.  virosum,  Don,  and  perhaps  from  other  species 
of  aconitum  indigenous  to  the  Himalayas,  is  occasionally  met  with  in  commerce.  It  is  conical 
in  shape,  (2  to  4 inches)  5-10  Cm.  long,  about  25  Mm.  (1  inch)  in  its  upper  diameter,  longitudi- 
nally wrinkled,  externally  of  a brownish-black  color,  internally  somewhat  spongy  or  compact, 
and  either  farinaceous  or  of  a reisnous  or  hoary,  somewhat  translucent  appearance  upon  the  short 
fracture.  Its  taste  is  intensely  acrid. 

Aconitum  Heterophyllum,  WaUich.  The  conical  or  fusiform  roots  of  this  Himalayan 
species  have  a mucilaginous  bitter  taste  without  acridity,  and  are  used  in  India,  under  the 
name  of  atis,  for  their  tonic  and  antiperiodic  properties.  They  are  of  a yellowish-gray  color, 
rough  from  the  numerous  root-scars,  internally  white  and  mealy,  and  contain  about  ^ Per  cent, 
of  a bitter  non-poisonous  alkaloid,  atisine,  which  appears  to  be  combined  with  aconitic  acid,  and 
acquires  a purple  color  with  sulphuric  acid.  It  was  discovered  by  Broughton,  and  further  exam- 
ined by  Wright  (1878)  and  Wasowicz  (1879). 

Aconitum  Palmatum,  Don.  The  tubers,  which  are  occasionally  met  with  in  India,  are  called 
bishma  or  biklima , resemble  the  bish  tubers,  but  are  branched,  light-brown,  and  not  acrid,  but 
persistently  bitter  ; they  appear  to  be  tonic  in  doses  of  0.5  Gm. 

Aconitum  Lycoctonum,  Linne.  Von  Schroff  (1875)  recalled  attention  to  the  fact  that  the 
aconite-leaves  which  are  used  in  Lapland  as  a potherb  are  from  a blue-flowering  variety  of  this 
species,  the  Ac.  septentrionale  of  Koelle,  which  contains  only  a very  minute  quantity  of  bitter 
alkaloid  in  the  leaves,  though  more  in  the  rhizome  and  rootlets. 

Aconitum  Anthora,  Linne,  a yellowish  and  white-flowering  species  of  Europe,  has  bitter  roots, 
which  were  formerly  used  as  a "tonic,  and,  according  to  Hooker,  the  roots  of  the  allied  Aeon, 
multijidum , as  also  those  of  Aeon,  rotundifolium , indigenous  to  India,  are  eatable. 

Aconitum  Chinense,  Siebold,  Ac.  Japonicum,  Thunberg , and  perhaps  other  species  yield  Chi- 
nese and  Japanese  aconite-root,  which  vary  in  shape,  size,  and  poisonous  properties,  and  appear 
in  the  Eastern  market  in  the  dried  and  salted  condition  and  preserved  by  steeping  in  vinegar. 
Their  poisonous  properties  and  their  constituents  vary  according  to  origin  and  mode  of  preserva- 
tion. Geerts  (1880)  states  that  the  most  toxic  Japanese  aconite-root  consists  of  the  young  tubers 
of  Ac.  Fischeri,  Reich.  Paul  and  Kingzets  have  isolated  japaconitine , which  was  found  by 
Wright  to  closely  resemble  his  aconitine,  and  by  Mandelin  (1885)  as  being  identical  with  benzoyl- 
aconine. 

Constituents. — The  important  medicinal  constituent  of  both  aconite-root  and  leaves 
is  the  acrid  alkaloid  aconitine  or  napaconitine,  combined  in  the  herb  with  aconitic  acid,  and 
associated  with  bitter  amorphous  alkaloids,  one  of  which,  napelline,  was  discovered  by 
Hiibschmann  (1857),  and  subsequently  (1867)  found  by  him  to  be  identical  with  acolyc- 
tine,  one  of  the  alkaloids  obtained  by  him  from  Aconitum  Lycoctonum,  Linne,  which 
plant  contains  a second  alkaloid,  lycoctonine,  but  no  aconitine.  AVright  has  shown  (1877) 
that  these  two  alkaloids  should  be  regarded  as  decomposition-products— namely,  acolyc- 
tine  from  aconitine,  and  lycoctonine  from  the  principal  acrid  alkaloid  of  bikh-tubers,  which 
has  been  named  pseudaconitine.  The  last-named  alkaloid  is  also  present  in  very  small 
quantity  in  aconite-root,  from  which  T.  and  H.  Smith  obtained  (1864),  by  almost  neu- 
tralizing the  acid  solution  of  crude  aconitine  with  carbonate  of  sodium,  a crystallizable 
non-poisonous  alkaloid,  bearing  in  its  behavior  a close  resemblance  to  narcotine,  and  for 
which  the  name  of  aconelline  has  been  proposed.  Groves  failed  (1866)  to  obtain  it,  and 
Al  right  did  not  observe  it  ; but  the  latter  proved  the  existence  of  two  amorphous  alka- 
loids which  are  soluble  in  solution  of  potassium  carbonate.  One  of  these,  picraconitine, 
has  a bitter  taste  free  from  acridity  ; its  composition  is  represented  by  the  formula 
C31H45NO10,  and  upon  saponification  with  an  alkali  it  splits  into  benzoic  acid  and  picraco- 
nine,  C24H41N09,  the  latter  resembling  the  analogous  derivative  of  aconitine.  The  salts 
of  picraconitine  are  crystallizable.  AVright  determined  the  formula  of  aconitine  to  be 
C33H43N012,  and  its  saponification  product  to  be  benzoic  acid  and  aconine,  C2oH39NOn. 
Ehrenberg  and  Purfiirst  (1892),  by  boiling  aconitine,  C32H43NOn,  with  water,  obtained 
benzoic  acid  and  picraconitine , C25H39NO„,  the  latter  being  ultimately  converted  into  methyl 
alcohol  and  napelline,  C24H37NOi0;  on  saponifying  the  latter  acetic  acid  and  aconine, 
C22H35N09,  were  obtained.  Dunstan  and  Ince  adopted  (1891)  for  aconitine  the  formula 
C33H45N012;  the  products  of  hydrolysis  are  benzoic  acid  and  aconine,  C26H41NOu.  Picra- 


120 


ACONITUM. 


conitine,  for  which  also  the  name  napelline  has  been  suggested,  when  pure,  was  found  by 
Dunstan  and  Harrison  (1893)  to  have  the  same  composition  as  aconitine ; hence  the 
name  aconitine  is  proposed  for  it.  Though  it  yields  also  the  same  decomposition  products, 
it  is  not  poisonous  like  aconitine,  and  the' cause  of  this  difference  is  still  to  be  ascertained. 

Wright’s  total  yield  of  crystalline  and  non-crystalline  alkaloids  from  200  cwt.  of  acon- 
ite-root was  0.07  per  cent.  Hottot  (1864)  obtained  0.06,  and  Hager  (1863)  between  0.64 
and  1.25  per  cent.  Proctor  (1863),  by  testing  with  Mayer’s  solution,  showed  a total  of 
0.93  per  cent,  of  alkaloids  from  aconite-root  cultivated  at  Lebanon,  N.  Y.,  and  0.44 
per  cent,  from  commercial  European  aconite-root,  but  by  actual  experiment  he  obtained 
only  0.42  and  0.20  per  cent,  respectively. 

The  herb  from  which  Geiger  and  Hesse  (1833)  first  isolated  the  mixed  alkaloids  usually 
contains  a small  percentage  thereof,  the  fresh  herb  yielding  to  Wright  0.011  per  cent., 
equal  to  about  0.05  per  cent,  of  total  alkaloids  from  the  dry  herb. 

Aconite-leaves  contain  also  albumen,  gum,  chlorophyll,  extractive  matter,  and  salts. 
In  aconite-tubers,  resin,  fat,  mannit,  cane-  and  grape-sugar  have  been  found  ; the  absence 
of  a volatile  alkaloid  was  demonstrated  by  Groves  (1866). 

Aconitic  acid , H3C6H306,  is  also  a constituent  of  larkspur,  yarrow,  sorghum,  equisetum, 
etc.,  and  is  prepared  from  citric  acid  by  heating  it  rapidly  in  a retort  until  oily  streaks 
have  appeared  in  the  neck,  when  the  residue  is  exhausted  with  ether  to  free  it  from  the 
undecomposed  citric  acid.  C6H807  (citric  acid)  yields  H20  and  H3C6H306.  Aconite  acid 
crystallizes  in  colorless  laminae,  or  warts,  which  are  easily  soluble  in  water,  alcohol,  and 
ether.  Its  calcium  salt,  on  fermentation  with  cheese,  yields  succinic  acid. 

Nepaul  aconite  contains  an  alkaloid  which  was  at  first  supposed  to  be  identical  with 
aconitine,  but  was  afterward  described  under  various  names,  like  acraconitine  (Ludwig, 
1869),  napelline  (Wiggers,  1857),  and  nepaline  (Fliickiger,  1869).  The  name  pseudaconi- 
tine  or  fer aconitine  is  now  given  to  this  substance,  which,  according  to  Groves  (1870-74), 
exists  in  two  modifications,  one  crystalline,  but  yielding  uncrystallizable  salts,  the  other 
amorphous  ; the  latter  becomes  sticky  in  boiling  water,  while  the  former  coheres  and 
becomes  plastic  only  if  treated  with  boiling  water  immediately  after  having  been  pre- 
cipitated by  ammonia.  Another  alkaloid,  resembling  Hiibschmann’s  napelline,  but  prob- 
ably differing  from  it,  is  likewise  met  with  in  bikh-root.  Duquesnel  (1871)  and  Patrouil- 
lard  (1872)  regarded  pseudaconitine  and  aconitine  as  identical,  differing  from  each  other 
merely  in  the  amount  of  other  inert  constituents  contained  in  them.  C.  R.  A.  Wright 
(1875-80),  however,  proved  the  former  to  have  the  composition  C36H49N012,  and  when 
acted  upon  by  alcoholic  solution  of  soda  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  observed  it  to  be  decom- 
posed into  dimethyl-protocatechuic  ( veratric ) acid , C9H10O4,  and  an  uncrystallizable  base, 
pseudaconine , C27H4iN09,  which  prevents  also  the  crystallization  of  pseudaconitine ; the 
latter  is  closely  related  to  the  opium  alkaloids  narceine  and  narcotine,  which  give  rise  to 
derivatives  of  dimethyl-protocatechuic  acid.  The  same  author  regards  Hubschmann’s 
lycoctonine  merely  as  a mixture  of  these  two  alkaloids,  pseudaconine  predominating. 
According  to  Mandelin  (1885),  aconine  and  pseudaconine  are  poisonous,  but  far  less  so 
than  aconitine  and  pseudaconitine. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparations. — Emplastrum  Aconiti  (U.  S.  1870).  Exhaust  16  ozs.  of 
aconite-root  with  alcohol,  evaporate  the  tincture  to  a soft  extract,  and  mix  with  sufficient  resin 
plaster  to  obtain  16  ozs.  of  plaster. 

Glyceritum  Aconiti.  Extract  of  aconite  1 part ; glycerite  of  starch  9 parts.  Mix  thor- 
oughly. 

Action  and  Uses. — In  man  the  following  effects  have  been  noted,  chiefly  in  the 
very  numerous  cases  in  which  aconite  has  been  prescribed  in  an  overdose  or  been  taken 
by  mistake : After  a dose  of  5 minims  of  the  tincture  there  is  felt  a tingling,  numb 
sensation  in  the  lips  and  tongue  and  in  the  tips  of  the  fingers,  with  a sense  of  muscular 
weakness  and  depression ; the  pulse  falls  in  frequency  and  force  and  the  breathing  is 
somewhat  slower.  A dose  of  10  minims  produces  the  same  symptoms,  greatly  intensified 
and  more  prolonged.  Beyond  this  dose  the  effects  become  poisonous ; besides  tingling 
of  the  skin,  there  may  be  lancinating  pains  in  the  joints ; there  is  vertigo  with  dimness 
of  vision,  alarming  debility,  and  a pulse  of  between  30  and  40  in  a minute,  which  after- 
ward grows  frequent  and  irregular.  The  skin  is  cool  and  moist,  nausea  and  vomiting 
occur,  and  the  sickness  and  depression  may  last  for  several  days.  (For  illustrative  cases 
see  Edinb.  Med.  Jour.,  xxviii.  653;  Reichert,  Phila.  Med.  Times , xii.  105;  Med.  Record , 
xxxii.  761).  In  poisonous  doses  which  yet  have  not  proved  fatal  the  preceding  symp- 
toms occur  in  an  intensified  degree.  If  the  dose  is  a fatal  one,  there  is  complete  loss  of 
sight,  hearing,  and  speech,  yet  consciousness  may  still  be  retained;  the  pupils  are  dilated, 


ACONITUM. 


121 


the  muscles  are  tremulous  or  convulsed,  the  pulse  is  imperceptible  at  the  wrist,  and  may 
be  so  even  in  the  axilla  ; the  skin  is  cold,  and  death  usually  takes  place  by  syncope. 
No  characteristic  lesions  are  found  after  death,  but  the  heart  is  generally  arrested  in 
diastole,  and  most  frequently  is  filled  with  dark  blood.  Large  doses  of  aconite  are 
said  to  leave  behind  them  general  debility,  tremulousness,  photophobia,  feverishness, 
impaired  digestion,  and  sometimes  a tendency  to  jaundice.  Experiments  made  to  deter- 
mine the  influence  of  aconite  on  the  secretion  of  urine  (Mackenzie,  Practitioner,  xxiv.  1) 
appear  to  show  that  in  obstructive  heart  or  kidney  disease  it  neither  maintains  the  action 
of  the  kidneys  nor  evacuates  dropsical  fluid,  but  that  where  these  conditions  do  not  exist, 
and  in  certain  febrile  states,  it  has  a tendency  to  increase  the  urinary  secretion.  (Further 
information  regarding  the  action  of  this  drug  will  be  found  under  Aconitia.)  A case 
has  been  published  of  nearly  fatal  poisoning  by  the  application  of  tincture  of  aconite  to 
the  skin;  but  its  statements  have  been  controverted  ( Med . Record , xxiv.  243,451). 

Aconite  has  been  proclaimed  by  not  a few  writers  of  authority  to  be  a potent  remedy 
for  rheumatism  ; it  may  be  admitted  to  possess  some  value  as  a sedative  of  arterial  action, 
and  even  as  a direct  anodyne,  but  it  is  in  no  proper  sense  a remedy  for  the  disease. 
Indeed,  it  falls  so  far  short  of  alkalies  in  the  articular,  and  of  iodide  of  potassium  in  the 
muscular,  variety  of  rheumatism  that  its  practical  value  is  next  to  nothing,  and  it  does 
not  enter  into  the  catalogue  of  remedies  which  are  prescribed  for  the  disease  by  judicious 
practitioners.  It  is  of  still  less  utility  in  gout  than  in  rheumatism,  But  in  both  affec- 
tions it  may  be  employed  as  a topical  application  for  mitigating  pain.  So  far  as  the 
internal  use  of  aconite  in  neuralgia  is  concerned,  a somewhat  analogous  judgment  may 
be  given.  Undoubtedly  it  sometimes  palliates  severe  suffering  in  this  disease  affecting 
the  nerves  of  the  face  or  the  chest,  especially  when  it  is  at  the  same  time  applied,  in  the 
form  of  a strong  tincture  over  the  superficial  and  painful  nervous  branches.  Aconite 
plaster,  which  is  no  longer  officinal,  may  be  used  in  similar  manner,  and  as  a sedative  of 
local  pain  in  chronic  rheumatism , white  swelling , etc.  In  the  greater  number  of  cases  of 
neuralgia,  not  the  direct  effect  of  external  causes,  the  affection  depends  upon  states  of 
the  system  which  must  be  remedied  by  quinine,  arsenic,  iron,  etc.,  and  in  which  the  sole 
indication  for  aconite  is  fulfilled  by  its  local  application.  It  may,  however,  conspire  with 
them  to  secure  relief.  So  in  sciatica , and  in  gouty  and  rheumatic  neuralgia  of  the  axillary 
and  brachial  nerves,  it  has  been  used  with  success  when  associated  with  colchicum, 
belladonna,  and  cimicifuga  (Metcalfe,  Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour .,  Jan.  1887,  p.  87). 
It  is  sometimes  very  efficient  in  relieving  toothache  when  introduced  into  a carious  cavity. 
But  the  risk  of  poisoning  in  such  cases  outweighs  the  advantages  of  the  medicine.  The 
same  reflection  is  suggested  by  its  use  in  the  vomiting  of  pregnancy,  and  in  palpitation 
of  the  heart,  whether  nervous  or  arising  from  organic  disease  of  that  organ,  in  dysentery , 
amenorrhoea,  etc.  In  traumatic  tetanus  a like  consideration  should  forbid  its  use,  in  spite 
of  certain  cases  in  which  it  seems  to  have  been  advantageous. 

The  statements  which  have  been  made  respecting  the  virtues  of  aconite  in  purely 
inflammatory  affections  and  fevers — e.  g.  pneumonia , tonsillitis , rheumatism , erysipelas , 
typhoid  fever , puerperal  fever,  remittent  fever,  and  traumatic  fever — have  not  been  sup- 
ported by  concurrent  experience.  Probably  the  medicine  is  more  efficient  in  acute  tonsil- 
litis than  in  the  other  diseases  enumerated,  But  if  certain  reports  of  its  use  in  pneumonia 
(e.  g.  Spark,  Practitioner,  xxii.  196  ; Dobie,  ibid.,  p.  401)  were  to  be  taken  as  a guide,  it 
has  effected  what  no  other  medicine  can  do.  It  is  said  to  have  cut  short  the  disease  within 
from  one  to  four  days  of  its  commencement.  Evidently,  the  reporters  have  overlooked 
the  fact  that  pneumonia  sometimes  does  not  go  beyond  the  first  or  congestive  stage.  Like 
various  other  sedatives  and  more  numerous  stimulants,  aconite  will  sometimes  prevent 
the  development  of  certain  diseases,  such  as  coryza,  tonsillitis,  laryngeal  and  bronchial 
catarrhs,  and  even  nervous  asthma.  Walshe  commended  the  use  of  aconite  in  pericar- 
ditis when  the  general  conditions  are  sthenic  and  the  disease  is  at  its  onset ; and  yet  he 
admited  that  an  overdose  of  it  will  dangerously  accelerate  the  heart’s  action  and  lessen 
its  power.  The  risks  greatly  outweigh  the  benefits  of  its  administration  in  this  as  in  all 
other  internal  diseases.  The  action  of  aconite  in  inflammations  has  been  compared  to 
that  of  venesection  ; but  the  analogy  is  not  a real  one.  Venesection  relieves  the  engorged 
organ,  and  at  the  same  time  enables  the  heart  to  act  with  more  freedom  and  vigor;  but 
aconite  and  its  congeners  weaken  the  heart,  without  in  the  least  lightening  the  labor  it 
has  to  perform.  The  above  remarks  are  particularly  applicable  to  the  use  of  this  agent 
in  the  diseases  of  children.  It  should  be  banished  from  them  as  unnecessary  and  unsafe. 
When  employed  in  fevers  and  inflammations,  it  should  always  be  given  in  very  small  and 
frequently  repeated  doses,  such  as  half  a minim  of  the  fluid  extract  every  quarter  or 


122 


ACTJEA  s. pic at a. 


half  hour  until  some  of  its  characteristic  effects  appear,  when  the  dose  should  be  dimin- 
ished or  given  at  longer  intervals. 

The  treatment  of  poisonmg  by  aconite  consists  in  evacuating  the  stomach  with  mechan- 
ical emetics  and  the  stomach-pump,  and  sustaining  vitality  by  means  of  the  galvanic  bat- 
tery and  by  the  administration  of  stimulants,  including  alcoholic  liquids,  coffee,  and 
external  heat.  Oxygen  has  apparently  tended  to  revive  failing  life,  and  hence  artificial 
respiration  is  indicated.  Strychnine  is  regarded  as  indicated  physiologically ; and  digi- 
talis, or,  preferably,  digitalin  and  atropine,  may  be  given  for  their  sustaining  operation 
upon  the  heart.  (For  the  use  of  these  agents  in  poisoning  by  aconite  see  Atropina  and 
Digitalis.)  Two  cases  occurred  (O’Brien,  Med.  Record , xv.  128  ; Clark,  ibid.,  xvii.  6) 
which  demonstrate  the  power  of  morphine , hypodermically  administered,  to  rescue  from 
impending  death  persons  poisoned  by  aconite,  and  others  have  been  recorded.  To  assist 
in  preventing  syncope  the  patient’s  head  should  be  kept  low.  According  to  Harley, 
death  results  from  asphyxia  and  progressive  collapse  of  the  lung,  the  former  being  due 
to  the  spasmodic  closure  of  the  respiratory  passages  and  paralysis  of  the  muscles  of 
inspiration,  and  notably  of  the  diaphragm. 

The  dose  of  the  powdered  leaves  or  root,  is  Grm.  0.06-0.13  (gr.  j-ij)  as  a minimum, 
but  aconite  is  seldom  employed  in  this  form.  The  fluid  extract  and  tincture  are  pre- 
ferable for  internal  administration ; and  for  the  local  effects  of  the  medicine  either  the 
tincture,  fluid  extract,  aconite  plaster,  or  aconitine  may  be  employed.  It  must  not  be 
forgotten  that  alarming  symptoms  have  been  produced  by  a dose  of  Grm.  0.02  (rrpiij) 
of  the  saturated  tincture  of  aconite-root. 

Aconitum  ferox  appears  to  possess  only  the  virtues  of  the  officinal  plant,  but  in  a far 
higher  degree.  A.  heterophyllum  it  said  to  be  destitute  of  poisonous  qualities,  but  to  be 
tonic  and  aphrodisiac.  A.  lycoctonum  resembles  the  officinal  species  in  all  essential  par- 
ticulars, but  the  action  of  its  alkaloid,  acolyctine,  identical  with  napelline,  is  much  milder. 
Lycoctonine  is  said  to  resemble  curare  in  its  action.  A.  Chinense  s.  Japonicum  acts  much 
more  mildly,  both  topically  and  internally.  A.  Fischeri , an  American  species,  examined 
by  Dr.  Bartholow,  differs  essentially  from  A.  napellus  in  not  affecting  the  sense  of  touch 
or  pain,  although  it  produces  a sensation  of  tingling,  and  in  causing  death  by  arresting 
respiration  through  the  motor  centres  of  the  cord  ( Amer . Jour.  Med.  Sci.,  Jan.  1886,  p. 
261). 

Napelline  (probably  Hiibschmann’s)  is  alleged  by  Laborde  to  produce  essentially  the 
same  effects  as  aconitine,  but  only  when  given  in  a much  larger  dose  than  the  latter. 
Thus,  while  half  a milligram  (gr.  T|^)  of  aconitine  fatally  poisons  a dog,  it  requires  3 
or  4 centigrams  (gr.  £ to  f)  of  napelline  to  produce  any  effect  on  a similar  animal.  It 
is  also  asserted  that  napelline  induces  a calm  and  refreshing  sleep,  like  that  occasioned 
by  narceine  ( Bull . de  Therap.,  ciii.  94).  It  would  be  a singular  fact  if  a derivative  of 
aconite  should  possess  soporific  qualities  that  do  not  belong  to  the  drug  itself.  In  doses 
of  half  a grain  napelline  is  said  to  have  been  a very  efficient  palliative  of  neuralgia  of 
the  fifth  nerve.  It  has  also  been  given  for  the  relief  of  this  affection  in  doses  of  one- 
twenty-fourth  of  a grain  every  two  hours  (ibid.,  cv.  220).  Glrognot  claims  to  have 
relieved  toothache  in  many  cases  by  the  internal  administration  of  Grm.  0.005  (gr.  TL) 
of  napelline  (Laborde’s)  every  fifteen  minutes  (ibid.,  cix.  64). 


ACT^EA  SPICATA,  Linne. — Baneberry. 

Radix  Christophoriande. — Racine  de  Saint  Christophe,  Fr. ; Christophswurz,  Wolfswurz, 
Gr. 

Nat.  Ord. — Banunculacese,  Helleboreae. 

Origin. — The  plant  is  a native  of  Central  Asia  and  Europe,  and  a variety  with  red 
berries  (A.  rubra,  Bigelow ) is  indigenous  to  the  Northern  United  States  and  Canada. 
The  leaves  are  twice  or  thrice  ternately  compound,  with  ovate  or  oblong,  sharply  cleft  or 
toothed  leaflets.  The  whitish  flowers  are  in  short,  dense  racemes.  The  fruit  of  the 
European  variety  is  glossy  black.  Another  American  species,  A.  alba,  Bigelow,  is  taller 
and  has  longer  racemes  and  white  berries. 

Description. — The  rhizome  and  rootlets  closely  resemble  the  corresponding  parts  of 
cimicifuga,  but  are  shorter,  thinner,  and  of  a blackish-gray  color.  When  dry  they  are 
nearly  inodorous ; their  taste  is  bitter,  afterward  acrid  and  sweetish.  The  constituents 
are  similar  to  those  of  cimicifuga. 

Action  and  Uses. — A.  spicata,  or  baneberry,  and  A.  alba  and  A.  rubra,  are  some- 
times used  in  domestic  medicine  where  they  flourish — the  first  in  Europe,  the  others  in 


ABAXSOXIA  DIGITATA—ADEPS. 


123 


this  country.  They  are  probably  very  analogous,  if  not  identical,  in  their  mode  of  action, 
which  is  that  of  an  irritant  emeto-cathartic.  The  berries  of  the  European  species  are 
said  to  occasion  violent  and  even  fatal  delirium,  as  well  as  gastro-intestinal  disorder. 
They  destroy  the  life  of  hens  and  ducks,  but  sheep,  asses,  and  goats  devour  the  green 
leaves  without  injury.  The  powder  and  decoction  are  used  to  kill  fleas  and  lice.  The 
fresh  root  of  the  plant  has  been  used  in  veterinary  medicine,  and  was  formerly  regarded 
as  a remedy  for  asthma.  Whatever  virtues  belong  to  either  of  these  species  probably 
exist  more  perfectly  in  cimicifuga.  A.  spicata  is  administered  in  an  infusion  made  with 
Gm.  2 (gr.  xxx),  to  be  taken  in  one  day. 

ADANSONIA  DIGITATA,  Linne.— Baobab. 

Nat.  Ord. — Malvaceae,  Bombaceae. 

Description. — The  tree  is  indigenous  to  tropical  Africa,  and  has  been  introduced 
and  naturalized  in  various  parts  of  the  East  and  West  Indies.  It  is  remarkable  for  its 
enormous  size,  the  trunk  being  about  4.5  M.  (15  feet)  high  up  to  the  branches,  but 
attaining  a circumference  of  30  M.  (100  feet)  and  more,  and  being  divided  into  branches 
15-21  M.  (50  to  TO  feet)  long.  It  has  a smooth,  gray  bark  ; palmate  leaves,  with  5 to 
7 obovate  or  elliptic  rather  acute  and  somewhat  dentate  leaflets.  The  flowers  are  about 
10  Cm.  (4  inches)  long  and  wide,  have  5 thickish,  obovate,  white  petals  and  numerous 
stamens,  with  the  lower  half  of  the  filaments  united  into  a tube,  and  produce  a roundish, 
oblong  fruit  about  25-30  Cm.  (10  to  12  inches)  long,  and  containing  about  50  blackish, 
subreniform  seeds,  which  are  covered  with  a whitish,  acidulous  pulp.  The  bark,  leaves, 
and  flowers  have  a mucilaginous  taste.  The  fruit  is  known  as  monkey-bread  ( Pain  de 
singes , Fr. ; Affenbrot , G.),  Ethiopian  soar-gourd , and  in  Southern  Africa  as  cream-of- 
tartar  fruit;  the  latter  is  probably  the  smaller  fruit  of  A.  Madagascariensis , Baillon.  The 
pulp  surrounding  the  seeds  contains,  according  to  F.  L.  Slocum  (1880),  acid  potassium 
malate,  pectin,  and  glucose ; Millard  (1890)  found  also  a little  tartaric  acid,  and  Heckel 
and  Schlagdenhauffen  (1889)  no  malates. 

The  Australian  species,  A.  Gregorii,  F.  v.  Mueller,  is  of  smaller  dimensions. 

Action  and  Uses.— The  bark  of  the  baobab  does  not  appear  to  affect  any  of  the 
functions,  except  perhaps  by  increasing  the  appetite.  The  natives  of  Senegal  are  said  to 
use  it  for  its  emollient  qualities,  and  to  mix  the  powder  of  its  leaves  with  their  food.  It 
at  first  attracted  attention  in  consequence  of  its  alleged  power  of  curing  intermittent 
fever , but  no  confirmation  of  the  original  assertion  is  accessible,  and  it  is  quite  improb- 
able that  a mucilaginous  plant  should  possess  such  a virtue.  A decoction  is  made  with 
Gm.  32  in  1000  (an  ounce  of  baobab-bark  and  a quart  of  water),  reduced  by  boiling  to 
a pint  and  a half. 


ADEPS,  U.  S.— Lard. 

Adeps  prseparatus,  Br. ; Adeps  suillus,  P.  G. ; Axungia , Axungia  pored  s.  porcina. — Pre- 
pared lard , Hog's  lard , E.  ; Axonge,  Graisse  de  pore,  Saindoux , Fr.  ; Schweineschmalz,  G.; 
Manteca  de  cerdo , Sp.  ; Grasso  suino , It. 

The  prepared  or  purified  internal  fat  of  the  abdomen  of  the  hog,  Sus  scrofa,  Linne. 

Class  Mammalia  ; order  Pachydermata. 

Preparation. — For  medicinal  purposes  the  fat  attached  to  the  mesentery,  omentum, 
and  kidneys  of  the  hog  killed  during  the  winter  or  spring  should  be  selected,  as  this  has 
a higher  fusing-point  than  if  obtained  during  the  summer  or  from  other  parts  of  the 
body.  It  is  that  portion  which  is  ordinarily  called  the  “ leaves,”  and  should  be  as  free 
from  blood  as  possible.  Hogs  which  have  been  fed  on  corn  and  similar  amylaceous  food 
appear  to  yield  a more  solid  lard  than  hogs  fed  on  the  refuse  of  the  kitchen.  The 
British  Pharmacopoeia  gives  the  following  directions  for  preparing  lard : Take  of  the 
internal  fat  of  the  abdomen  of  the  hog,  perfectly  fresh,  any  convenient  quantity.  Remove 
as  much  of  the  external  membranes  as  possible,  and  suspend  the  fat  so  that  it  shall  be 
freely  exposed  to  the  air  for  some  hours ; then  cut  it  into  small  pieces,  and  beat  these  in 
a stone  mortar  until  they  are  thus,  or  by  some  equivalent  process,  reduced  to  a uniform 
mass  in  which  the  membranous  vesicles  are  completely  broken.  Put  the  mass  thus  pro- 
duced into  a vessel  surrounded  by  warm  water,  and  apply  a temperature  not  exceeding 
130°  F.  (54.4°  C.)  until  the  fat  has  melted  and  separated  from  the  membranous  matter. 
Finally,  strain  the  melted  fat  through  flannel. — Br. 

Perfumers  obtain  it  inodorous,  or  nearly  so,  by  adding  to  every  pound  of  the  fused 
lard  about  15  grains  of  powdered  alum  and  30  grains  of  table-salt,  and  continuing  the 


124 


AD  EPS  BENZOINATUS. 


heat  until  a scum  rises,  which  is  to  be  carefully  removed,  and  the  fat  is  uniform  in 
appearance ; it  is  then  allowed  to  cool,  and  worked  upon  a slab  or  in  a mortar  while  a 
slow  stream  of  clear  water  passes  over  it,  whereby  the  salts  are  completely  removed. 
The  fat  is  then  remelted  and  the  heat  maintained  until  the  water  has  completely  separated 
or  evaporated. 

Properties. — Lard  is  a soft  white  fat,  having  a faint  odor,  entirely  free  from  rancidity, 
a bland  taste  and  a neutral  reaction  ; like  other  fats  it  dissolves  completely  in  ether, 
benzin,  benzene,  carbon  disulphide,  chloroform,  and  volatile  oils.  It  has  a density  of 
about  0.932  at  15°  C.,  fuses  at  38°  to  40°  C.  (100.4°  to  104°  F.)  to  a clear,  nearly  color- 
less liquid,  and  at  or  below  30°  C.  (86°  F.)  is  a soft  solid.  In  contact  with  the  air,  par- 
ticularly when  exposed  to  the  light,  it  speedily  oxidizes  and  becomes  rancid,  acquiring  an 
acid  reaction,  a disagreeable  odor,  and  an  acrid  taste  ; this  change  is  accelerated  by  the 
presence  of  alkalies. 

As  met  with  in  commerce,  lard  often  has  a rancid  odor,  and  is  then  unfit  for  medicinal 
use.  Salt  is  often  added  to  prevent  it  from  becoming  rancid,  but  should  be  carefully 
removed  by  fusing  the  lard  and  stirring  it  in  hot  water,  and  afterward  washing  it  until  the 
fat  is  tasteless  or  silver  nitrate  ceases  to  produce  a precipitate  with  the  washings.  Potas- 
sium carbonate  is  used  to  impart  an  artificial  whiteness  to  commercial  lard  and  to 
incorporate  with  it  considerable  proportions  of  water ; such  lard  is  to  be  purified  by 
remelting  and  washing  with  water.  Adulterations  with  mucilaginous  jellies  are  removed 
in  the  same  manner. 

Constituents. — Lard  is  a mixture  of  olein,  palmitin,  and  stearin,  the  last  two  fats 
being  obtainable  to  the  amount  of  30  to  40  per  cent,  by  subjecting  the  lard  to  pressure 
near  the  freezing-point  of  water.  The  expressed  liquid  is  known  in  commerce  as  lard  oil , 
and  is  extensively  used  for  various  purposes ; it  furnishes  a cheap  adulterant  for  some  of 
the  more  costly  non-drying  oils.  The  solid  portion  is  called  stearin , and  is  employed  for 
making  candles,  soap,  etc.  When  melted  lard  is  allowed  to  cool  slowly  a portion  of  the 
solid  fats  separates  in  granules ; hence  lard  and  all  its  preparations  should  be  constantly 
stirred  while  cooling,  to  obtain  them  of  uniform  smoothness. 

Preservation  and  Tests. — Lard  should  be  preserved  in  glass,  porcelain,  or  other 
well-glazed  vessels,  which  must  be  entirely  impervious  to  fat ; the  vessels  should  be  well 
filled  and  protected  from  the  access  of  air  and  light.  Rancidity  is  readily  ascertained  by 
the  acid  reaction  which  alcohol  acquires  on  being  agitated  with  melted  lard.  On  melting 
lard  in  a narrow  test-tube,  the  oily  liquid  should  be  perfectly  transparent  and  not  separate 
a stratum  of  water.  The  adulterations  mentioned  above  are  detected  by  ether  or  chloro- 
form, in  which  they  are  insoluble  ; distilled  water,  on  being  boiled  with  lard,  should  not 
acquire  an  alkaline  reaction  (alkali  carbonates),  and  after  separating  the  fat  the  liquid 
should  not  form  a precipitate  with  silver  nitrate  (sodium  chloride)  or  assume  a blue 
color  on  the  addition  of  compound  solution  of  iodine  (absence  of  starch).  The  pharma- 
copoeial  limit  of  free  fatty  acids  is  ascertained  in  a chloroform  solution  of  10  Gm.  of  lard, 
to  which  10  Cc.  of  alcohol  and  1 drop  of  phenolphtalein  solution  have  been  added;  0.2 
Cc.  of  normal  potassa  solution  should  produce  a pink  tint  after  shaking.  An  admixture 
of  more  than  5 per  cent,  of  cotton-seed  oil  is  readily  detected  by  mixing  5 Cc.  of  melted 
and  filtered  lard,  while  warm,  with  5 Cc.  of  alcoholic  solution  of  silver  nitrate  (1  Gm. 
AgN03,  100  Cc.  deodorized  alcohol,  and  0.5  Cc.  nitric  acid),  shaking  the  tube  well  and 
heating  in  a water-bath  for  five  minutes : the  liquid  fat  should  not  acquire  a reddish  or 
brown  color  (V.  $.). 

ADEPS  BENZOINATUS,  U.  S.— Benzoin ated  Lard. 

Adeps  benzoatus,  Br.,  P.  G. ; Unguentum  benzoini , Axungia  balsamica  s.  benzoinata  s. 
benzoata.—Benzoated  lard , Ointment  of  benzoin , E.  ; Axonge  (Grouse')  benzoinee  (bal- 
samique ),  Fr. ; Benzoe  Schmalz,  G. ; Grasso  con  benzoino,  F.  It.;  Manteca  con  benjui,  Sp. 

Hog’s  lard  impregnated  with  benzoic  acid  and  the  odorous  principle  of  benzoin. 

Preparation. — Benzoin,  in  coarse  powder,  20  Gm. ; Lard,  1000  Gm.  Melt  the 
lard  by  means  of  a water-bath,  and,  having  loosely  tied  the  benzoin  in  a piece  of  coarse 
muslin,  suspend  it  in  the  melted  lard,  and,  stirring  them  together  frequently,  continue 
the  heat  for  two  hours,  covering  the  vessel  and  not  allowing  the  temperature  to  rise  above 
60°  C.  (140°  F.).  Lastly,  having  removed  the  benzoin,  strain  the  lard,  and  stir  while 
cooling.  When  benzoinated  lard  is  to  be  kept  or  used  during  warm  weather,  5 per  cent, 
of  the  lard  should  be  replaced  by  white  wax. — U.  S. 


A I)  EPS  BENZOIN  AT  US. 


125 


Take  of  prepared  Lard  1 pound  ; Benzoin,  reduced  to  coarse  powder,  160  grains.  Melt 
the  lard  by  the  heat  of  a water-bath,  add  the  benzoin,  and,  frequently  stirring  them 
together,  continue  the  application  of  heat  for  two  hours  ; finally,  remove  the  residual 
benzoin  by  straining. — Br.  Dissolve  1 part  of  benzoic  acid  in  99  parts  of  lard,  previously 
melted  on  a water-bath. — P.  G. 

The  result  of  the  U.  S.  and  Br.  processes  is  practically  identical,  though  the  first 
formula  directs  for  1 pound  avoirdupois  only  140  grains  of  benzoin.  By  enclosing  the 
latter  in  a muslin  bag  and  regulating  the  temperature  the  benzoin  is  more  thoroughly 
exhausted  than  if  it  was  allowed  to  melt,  and  empyreuina  is  prevented.  As  prepared  by 
the  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia  of  1870,  by  mixing  2 fluidounces  of  tincture  of  benzoin  with 
16  troyounces  of  melted  lard,  it  was  necessary  to  strain  after  the  evaporation  of  the 
alcohol,  so  as  to  remove  the  resin,  which  has  an  irritating  effect  on  tender  surfaces. 

Fixed  oils  dissolve  the  benzoic  acid  and  odorous  principles  contained  in  benzoin.  Pure 
benzoic  acid  is  said  to  have  no  preservative  influence  on  lard  ; that  property  appears  to 
be  due  solely  to  the  balsamic  principle  of  benzoin  and  similar  bodies.  Hence  the 
rancidity  of  lard  may  be  prevented  by  impregnating  it  with  the  balsamic  principles  of 
storax,  Peru  or  Tolu  balsam,  in  the  proportion  of  1 or  2 parts  of  balsam  to  100  parts  of 
lard  : the  latter  constitutes  the  so-called  balsamic  lard  (Proctor,  1863).  In  a similar 
manner  populinated  lard  ( Unguentum  populi  s.  populeum ) is  obtained  by  digesting  1 part 
of  poplar-buds  and  2 parts  of  lard  until  the  moisture  has  evaporated,  when  the  undis- 
solved matter  is  removed  by  expressing  and  straining.  B.  F.  Scholl  (1883)  ascertained 
that  for  the  preservation  of  fats  a larger  amount  of  storax  is  required  than  of  benzoin. 
Groves  found  (1866)  that  volatile  oils  generally  preserve  fats  from  rancidity  to  some 
extent,  and  that  the  oils  of  cloves,  allspice,  and  sassafras  are  best  adapted  for  this  pur- 
pose, in  the  proportion  of  4 drops  to  1 ounce  of  fat. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses  and  Preparations.— Lard  and  benzoinated  lard  are 
used  as  ingredients  in  ointments,  cerates,  and  sometimes  also  in  plasters,  as  a substitute 
for  olive  or  other  oil.  ’ 

Action  and  Uses. — Lard  is  used  in  medicine  chiefly  on  account  of  the  property  it 
possesses  in  common  with  all  unctuous  substances  of  facilitating  manual  and  mechanical 
operations  by  its  lubricating  qualities,  and  also  because  it  shares  the  same  property  of 
protecting  exposed  tender  surfaces  from  the  action  of  the  air.  That  lard  is  absorbed  by 
the  skin  is  not  proven  ; but  if,  as  it  is  believed  by  some,  lanolin  is  so  absorbed  when 
applied  with  friction,  there  would  seem  to  be  a probability  that  other  fats  and  oils  may 
be  absorbable  in  the  same  manner.  Like,  them,  it  is  difficult  of  digestion,  and  therefore 
is  sometimes  used  as  a laxative  for  children  and  for  its  protective  power  in  diarrhoea , 
dysentery , etc.  Enemata  of  melted  fresh  lard  are  extremely  soothing  in  acute  dysentery. 
It  has  been  proposed  as  a substitute  for  cod-liver  oil  in  the  treatment  of  phthisis,  but  its 
indigestible  nature  unfits  it  for  this  purpose.  It  has  been  employed  externally  in  the 
same  disease  by  inunction  of  the  chest,  and  probably  with  the  advantage  of  protecting 
the  lungs  from  the  external  impression  of  cold.  In  the  treatment  of  bronchial  and 
laryngeal  catarrh  in  children,  and  indeed  of  all  pulmonary  affections  of  early  life,  this 
simple  application  is  valuable,  not  only  for  the  reason  assigned,  but  because  it  seems, 
when  the  cough  is  dry  and  urgent,  to  render  expectoration  freer.  The  same  may  be  said 
of  its  use  in  coryza , in  which  the  ointment  should  be  applied  on  the  bridge  of  the  nose. 
In  scarlet  fever  inunction  of  the  whole  body  protects  the  skin  from  the  atmosphere,  and 
thereby  lessens  the  burning  and  itching,  and  both  directly  and  indirectly  lowers  the 
temperature  and  the  pulse-rate.  It  also  tends  to  prevent  a sudden  chill  on  exposure  to 
the  air,  and  hence  diminishes  the  occurrence  of  scarlatinous  dropsy.  The  application 
must  be  continued  for  some  time  after  the  fever  has  disappeared.  It  is  thought  that  the 
anginose  symptoms  of  scarlet  fever  may  be  palliated  by  keeping  the  neck  enveloped  in 
well-greased  flannel  cloths,  but  of  this  the  evidence  is  slender.  In  measles  it  is  probable 
that  the  bronchitis  may  be  moderated  by  similar  applications  upon  the  chest.  The  best 
form  in  which  lard  can  be  used  for  the  above  purposes  is  simple  ointment.  The  strongest 
objections  to  its  use  are  the  necessity  of  soiling  much  body-  and  bed-clothing,  and  the 
repugnance  which  is  generally  manifested  by  patients  to  its  frequent  repetition.  Ben- 
zoated  lard,  especially  with  a modicum  of  glycerin,  is  preferable  to  prepared  lard  or 
simple  ointment  when  a mild  stimulant  action  is  desired  besides  the  protective  influence. 


126 


ADEPS  LAN^E  HYDROSUS. 


ADEPS  LANiE  HYDROSUS,  U.  S.,  Br .,  Add.— Hydrous  Wool  Fat. 

Lanolin , E. ; Wollfett , Lanolin , G. ; Lanolina,  It. 

The  purified  fat  of  the  wool  of  the  sheep,  mixed  with  not  more  than  30  per  cent,  of 
water.  U.  S. 

Melt  7 ounces  of  Wool  Fat  in  a warm  mortar,  gradually  stir  in  3 ounces  of  Water, 
and  mix  thoroughly. — Br. 

Origin. — The  wool  of  sheep  contains  a natural  grease  known  as  suint,  which  con- 
sists largely  of  insoluble  soapy  matter  and  a soluble  salt  containing  variable  propor- 
tions (15-35  per  cent.)  of  potash  ; this  wool  fat  is  readily  removed  in  the  process  of 
washing  the  wool,  and  in  an  impure  condition  was  used  centuries  ago  under  the  name 
of  oesypum.  As  first  obtained,  it  contains  about  30  per  cent,  of  free  fatty  acids  besides 
numerous  fatty-acid  ethers  of  glyceryl  and  cholesterin ; the  latter  are  the  constituents 
sought  for  the  production  of  commercial  lanolin. 

Preparation. — Although  lanolin  is  manufactured  by  processes  never  as  yet  fully 
published,  it  is  known  that  the  chief  treatment  consists  in  emulsionizing  the  crude  fat 
with  weak  alkaline  solutions  and  then  separating  the  creamy  mixture  in  centrifugal 
machines : the  upper  layer  will  contain  the  cholesterin  fats,  while  the  lower  layer  consists 
of  a soap  solution  of  the  impure  fatty  acids.  By  treating  the  upper  creamy  layer  with 
calcium  chloride  crude  lanolin  mixed  with  calcium  soap  is  precipitated ; by  repeatedly 
melting  and  washing  the  precipitate,  and  finally  extracting  it  with  acetone,  pure  lanolin 
is  obtained  in  an  anhydrous  condition  : this  is  the  wool  fat  (adeps  lanae)  of  the  British 
Pharmacopoeia.  Anhydrous  wool  fat  is  of  a yellowish-brown  color,  characteristic  odor, 
readily  soluble  in  ether,  acetone,  chloroform,  and  benzene,  but  only  partly  soluble  in 
alcohol.  When  mixed  with  30  per  cent,  of  water  (by  kneading  process)  it  constitutes 
the  hydrous  wool  fat  of  the  Pharmacopoeia.  Its  chemical  composition  is  a mixture  of 
fatty  acid  ethers,  of  two  isomeric  alcohols,  cholesterin,  and  isocholesterin ; it  contains 
no  glycerin  and  is  saponified  with  difficulty. 

Properties. — Hyurous  wool  fat  occurs  as  a nearly  white  ointment-like  mass  of 
faint  peculiar  odor ; although  insoluble  in  water,  it  can  be  readily  mixed  with  twice  its 
weight  and  more  of  water ; it  forms  neutral  turbid  mixtures  with  chloroform  and  ether. 
It  melts  at  about  40°  C.  (104°  F.),  and  when  heated  on  a water-bath  to  constant  weight 
should  leave  not  less  than  70  per  cent,  of  residue.  When  heated  with  five  times  its 
weight  of  water  the  latter  should  yield  no  glycerin  upon  evaporation,  nor  should  it  emit 
ammonia  if  heated  with  potassium  hydroxide.  If  0.1  Gm.  be  dissolved  in  3 or  4 Cc.  of 
acetic  anhydride  (not  anhydrous  acetic  acid),  and  to  the  solution  be  added  6 drops  of 
concentrated  sulphuric  acid,  a pink  coloration  will  ensue,  soon  changing  to  green  or  blue 
( Lieber mann’s  cholestol  reaction).  If  deprived  of  water,  a solution  (1  in  50)  in  chloro- 
form will  gradually  develop  a deep  brown  color  if  allowed  to  flow  on  the  surface  of  con- 
centrated sulphuric  acid.  Free  alkalies  and  free  fatty  acids  can  be  detected  with  phe- 
nolphtalein  ; the  former  in  a 20  per  cent,  solution  in  ether  should  remain  colorless,  and 
the  latter  in  the  same  solution,  upon  addition  of  1 drop  of  normal  potassa  solution, 
should  become  pink. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Hydrous  wool  fat  is  employed  as  a base  for  ointments 
where  it  is  desired  to  incorporate  large  quantities  of  water  or  aqueous  solutions  of  other 
medicinal  agents. 

Thilanin. — Under  this  name  a sulphurated  lanolin  has  been  placed  before  the  medical 
profession : it  contains  about  3 per  cent,  of  sulphur,  and  is  made  by  allowing  sulphur 
to  act  on  anhydrous  lanolin  with  the  aid  of  heat.  It  is  a yellowish-brown  substance  and 
free  from  irritating  properties.  According  to  Saalfeld,  thilanin  relieves  the  itching  of  a 
number  of'  skin  diseases,  and  is  particularly  beneficial  in  cases  of  sycosis,  herpes,  acne, 
and  psoriasis ; for  use  upon  the  scalp  thilanin  should  be  diluted  with  oil  or  aqueous 
liquids. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  medicinal  employment  of  the  fat  obtained  from  sheep’s 
wool  is  very  ancient.  Pliny  says  that  its  uses  are  numberless,  and  he  describes  the 
manner  of  procuring  it  from  the  wool  beneath  the  forelegs  and  thighs  of  the  animal  by 
boiling  the  wool  in  water  and  skimming  off  the  floating  fat  {Hist.  Nat.,  xxix.  10).  These 
directions  were  rehearsed  from  age  to  age.  In  the  seventeenth  century  they  were 
repeated  by  Culpepper.  More  recently,  according  to  Strumpf  ( Handbucli , i.  128),  this 
fat  had  a place  in  the  Spanish  Pharmacopoeia,  and  uncleansed  wool  was  employed  as  a 
dressing  for  scrofulous  and  other  swellings  and  also  in  gout  and  rheumatism.  In  1853, 
Simpson  contended  for  the  absorption  of  animal  oils  by  the  skin,  citing  cases  of  rapid 


ADIANTUM. 


127 


increase  of  weight  through  the  external  application  of  oil ; and  his  contention  was  con- 
firmed by  Thompson.  In  1885  the  therapeutical  qualities  of  lanolin  were  pointed  out  by 
Liebreich.  The  value  of  lanolin  in  medicine  is  due  to  its  power  of  absorbing  its  own 
weight  of  water  and  nearly  twice  its  weight  of  glycerin.  It  does  not  tend  to  grow  rancid, 
is  not  at  all  irritating  to  the  skin,  but  it  does  not  render  it  as  supple  as  some  other 
emollients  do.  The  former  property  makes  it  a valuable  excipient  for  many  medicines 
which  are  applied  to  the  skin,  including  metallic  mercury  and  mercurial  salts,  iodoform, 
potassium  iodide,  clirysarobin,  etc.  After  friction  with  a lanolin  ointment  containing 
of  corrosive  sublimate  a metallic  taste  may  be  perceived  in  the  mouth  ; and  a 5 per 
cent,  carbolic-acid  ointment  prepared  with  it  occasions  a sense  of  numbness  in  the  skin 
in  the  course  of  a few  minutes,  but  does  not  irritate  it.  Rubbed  with  the  finger  upon 
the  back  of  the  hand,  it  promptly  disappeared,  leaving  the  skin  dry  and  with  a feeling 
of  tension.  Similar  observations  have  been  made  by  many,  including  I)oyon  {Med. 
Record , xxx.  603),  Baratinisky  {Med.  News,  xlix.  289),  and  Guttmann  {Zeitschr.  f hlin 
Med.,  xii.  276),  who,  however,  conclude  that  lanolin  has  no  superiority  over  other  animal 
fats  in  promoting  the  cutaneous  absorption  of  medicines.  There  are  some,  however,  who 
hold  that  lanolin  is  more  rapidly  taken  up  by  the  skin  than  any  other  fat  (Stelwagon). 
(Compare  Unna,  Ther.  Monath.,  iv.  79.  173,  387 : Liebreich,  ibid,  iv.  341  : Paschkis,  Cent, 
f.  Therap.  viii.  578). 

Lassar  {Berlin,  hlin.  Wochenschrift,  1886,  No.  5)  made  use  of  lanolin  ointments  in  400 
cases  of  diseases  of  the  skin.  Eczema  of  the  scalp  and  face  has  been  cured  in  a week 
by  a 2 per  cent,  lanolin-salicylic  ointment,  and  the  same  disease  of  other  parts  is  bene- 
fited by  an  ointment  of  boracic  acid  ^ij  and  lanolin  £j.  A case  of  contagious  impetigo 
was  cured  in  ten  days  by  means  of  a paste  composed  of  salicylic  acid  2 parts,  lanolin  50 
parts,  and  oxide  of  zinc  and  starch,  of  each  24  parts.  Pityriasis  versicolor  with  extreme 
itching  was  successfully  treated  by  means  of  an  ointment  containing  salicylic  acid  2, 
sulphur  10,  and  lanolin  88  parts.  In  many  cases  of  inveterate  scabies,  in  tylosis,  and 
especially  in  sycosis  and  other  acneiform  eruptions,  it  is  often  of  great  service,  and  in 
all  affections  in  which  the  epidermis  is  thickened  or  hard  it  lessens  this  obstacle  to  cure. 
The  following  paste  is  particularly  recommended  in  scabies:  Naphthol  5-10,  green  soap, 
chalk,  sulphur,  and  lanolin,  of  each  25  parts  ; and  in  psoriasis  an  ointment  made  with 
lanolin  and  25  per  cent,  of  chrysarobin.  In  many  other  cutaneous  diseases,  including 
sebarrhcea,  favus,  herpes  tonsurans,  acne,  prurigo,  etc.,  it  has  been  found  the  best  vehicle 
for  curative  remedies,  as  well  as  in  itself  a palliative.  Lanolin  forms  the  most  appropri- 
ate excipient  for  ointments  of  iodine,  potassium  iodide,  etc.,  to  be  applied  by  friction  to 
glandular  swellings ; for  all  such  as  are  applied  to  the  hairy  scalp ; and  also  for  those 
employed  in  seborrhcea,  rheumatism , chilblain , chapped  hands,  pruritus  ani  ant  vulvse , etc. 
If  the  object  be  to  render  the  skin  softer,  it  may  be  desirable  sometimes  to  dilute  the 
thicker  ointment  with  20  per  cent,  of  vaseline ; but  in  superficial  affections  and  where  a 
lenitive  and  protective  action  is  desired,  lanolin  may  be  applied  alone  after  thoroughly 
cleansing  the  skin  with  warm  water  and  soap,  bran,  or  Indian  corn  meal. 

The  results  obtained  by  Lassar  have  been  fully  confirmed  by  those  of  O.  Liebreich, 
who  tested  the  virtues  of  lanolin  clinically.  He  recommends  it,  on  account  of  its  unirritat- 
ing qualities,  as  the  best  unguent  for  massage.  It  appears  to  form  the  best  excipient  for 
chrysarobin  in  the  treatment  of  favus.  A number  of  formulae  for  the  use  of  this  prep- 
aration have  been  published  by  Liebreich  {Brit.  Med.  Jour.,  Feb.  1886,  p.  282 ; and 
Braithwaite  s Retrospect,  xciii.  159).  One  by  Helbing  consists  of  anhydrous  lanolin  65 
parts,  liquid  paraffin  30  parts,  cerisin  5 parts,  melted  and  kneaded  in  water  30  parts. 
Paschkis  gives  the  following  : lanolin  66  parts  ; liquid  paraffin  6 ; cerisin  1 ; water  65. 
Thilanin  has  been  used  as  a substitute  for  lanolin  {adeps  lanse ) as  an  application  in 
various  forms  of  skin  disease. 

ADIANTUM. — Maidenhair. 

Herba  capillorum  veneris. — CapiUaire , Fr.  Cod.;  Frauenhaar,  Venushaar,  G.  ; Capel- 
venere,  It. ; Culantrillo , Sp. 

The  frond  of  Adiantum  capillus  Veneris,  Linne,  and  A.  pedatum,  Linne. 

Nat.  Orel. — Filices,  Polypodiaceae. 

Origin. — The  first  species  is  indigenous  to  Southern  Europe,  Northern  Africa,  and 
the  southern  part  of  North  America,  westward  to  California,  and  grows  in  moist  rocky 
places ; the  second  is  common  in  rich  moist  woods  of  North  America,  from  Carolina 
northward,  and  is  recognized  by  the  French  Codex  as  Capillaire  du  Canada,  the  former 
species  as  Capillaire  de  Montpellier. 


128 


ADONIS. 


Description. — Maidenhair  has  a polished,  blackish-brown  stipe  about  30  Cm.  (a  foot) 
high.  The  first  species  has  the  fronds  tri-  or  bipinnate  below,  pinnate  above,  and  the 
leaflets  short-stalked,  irregular,  roundish  wedge-shaped,  oblique  at  the  base,  obtusely 
lobed,  and  with  linear  marginal  fruit-dots.  The  second  species  is  forked  at  the  summit, 
each  branch  recurved  and  with  6 or  7 pinnate  branches ; the  leaflets  are  triangular 
oblong  on  the  lower  margin,  entire,  the  upper  margin  cleft  and  fruit-bearing ; otherwise 
resembling  the  preceding.  Both  have  a faintly  astringent,  sweetish,  and  slightly  bitter 
taste  ; the  American  maidenhair  has  also  a faint  aromatic  odor.  Their  constituents  are 
a small  quantity  of  tannin,  a bitter  principle,  mucilage,  sugar,  and  a trace  of  volatile 
oil. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Syrupus  adianti,  s.  capillorum  veneris. — Syrup  of  maidenhair,  E. 
Make  an  infusion  with  1 part  of  the  drug  and  15  parts  of  boiling  water,  and  dissolve  in  10 
parts  of  the  strained  liquid  18  parts  of  sugar. — F.  Cod. 

Allied  Species. — Other  species  indigenous  to  Mexico  and  South  America  are  employed  there 
for  similar  purposes.  Asplenium  Adiantum  nigrum,  Linne , was  formerly  known  in  Europe  as 
black  maidenhair , and  Aspl.  ruta  muraria,  Linne , as  white  maidenhair  ; the  latter  is  also  a native 
of  the  United  States. 

Uses. — The  indigenous  species  of  maidenhair  is  reputed  to  be  useful  in  the  same 
affection  for  which  its  European  congener  has  long  been  celebrated — viz.  in  pulmonary 
catarrh ; and  a syrup  made  with  the  latter  species  is,  in  France,  an  ordinary  flavoring 
addition  to  expectorant  mixtures.  It  is  demulcent  and  slightly  stimulant. 

ADONIS.— Adonis. 

Pheasant's  eye , E. ; Adonide,  Fr.,  It. ; Adonisroschen , G. 

The  herb  of  Adonis  vernalis,  A.  aestivalis,  and  A.  autumnalis,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Banunculaceae,  Anemoneae. 

Origin. — The  first  two  species  are  met  with  in  most  parts  of  Europe,  and  also  in 
Asia ; the  last-mentioned  species  is  indigenous  to  Southern  Europe,  and,  like  A.  aestivalis, 
is  an  annual  plant,  while  A.  vernalis  is  perennial. 

Description. — These  plants  attain  a height  of  about  25  Cm.  (10  inches),  and  have 
the  light-green  leaves  repeatedly  pinnatifid,  the  final  divisions  being  quite  narrow  and 
almost  capillary.  On  the  lower  part  of  the  stem  of  A.  vernalis  the  leaves  are  reduced 
to  oblong  membranous  scales,  and,  like  the  calyx,  are  pubescent ; its  flowers  are  of  a 
golden-yellow  color.  The  other  two  species  are  nearly  glabrous,  and  have  yellowish-red 
(A.  aestivalis)  or  crimson  flowers  (A.  autumnalis).  These  plants  have  but  little  odor 
and  a somewhat  acrid  and  bitter  taste. 

Constituents. — F.  Linderos  obtained  (1876)  from  the  herb  nearly  10  per  cent,  of 
aconitic  acid,  combined  with  potassium  and  calcium.  The  medicinal  principle,  adonidin , 
was  isolated  by  Cervello  (1882)  from  the  precipitate  produced  by  tannin.  Mordagne 
(1885)  obtained  2 Gm.  from  10  kilos  of  the  herb.  Adonidin  is  a whitish  crystalline 
powder,  having  a purely  bitter  taste,  and  acquiring  a yellow  color  when  kept  over  sul- 
phuric acid,  and  a brown  color  on  being  heated  in  a water-bath.  It  is  nearly  insoluble 
in  chloroform,  benzene,  and  oil  of  turpentine  ; sparingly  soluble  in  ether,  but  freely  solu- 
ble in  water  and  alcohol.  Placed  upon  moistened  blue  litmus-paper,  it  changes  the  color 
to  red.  The  watery  solution  is  precipitated  by  tannin  and  basic  lead  acetate,  but  not  by 
normal  lead  acetate.  Sulphuric  acid  imparts  a brown  color,  changing  to  violet.  This 
medicinal  adonidin  was  ascertained  by  Podwissotzki  (1888)  to  be  a mixture  of  yellow 
adonidoquercitrin , adonidodulcit.  adonitic.  acid , and  a brown  glucoside  with  the  active 
principle  picradonidin , which  is  an  amorphous  glucoside,  soluble  in  water,  alcohol,  and 
ether,  strongly  bitter,  and  a powerful  heart-poison  ; its  solution  is  not  disturbed  by  lead 
salts,  but  is  precipitated  by  tannin. 

Action  and  Uses. — Adonis  vernalis  acts  upon  the  frog’s  heart  very  much  like 
digitalis,  producing  a tonic  contraction  of  the  organ  and  a diminished  pulse-rate 
(Bubnow,  1880 ; Cervello,  1882).  Clinical  observation  leads  to  a similar  conclusion, 
for  the  medicine  restores  its  rhythm  to  the  arhythmical  heart,  rendering  the  pulse  slower, 
fuller,  and  stronger.  It  augments  the  urinary  secretion  by  increasing  the  proportion  of 
water  in  it  while  diminishing  its  solid  ingredients.  In  cardiac  dropsy  it  therefore  palliates 
all  the  symptoms  depending  upon  obstruction  of  the  heart — viz.  those  due  to  the  heart 
itself  and  those  occasioned  by  the  dropsy — and  measurably  it  has  analogous  effects  in 
renal  dropsy,  unless  the  effusion  is  very  large  and  the  kidney  lesion  very  general.  The 
same  is  true  of  it  in  hepatic  and  splenic  dropsy.  Adonis  is  useless  in  functional  disease 


JETHER. 


129 


of  the  heart.  The  infusion  is  made  with  from  Gm.  2-8  (|  drachm  to  2 drachms)  in  Gm. 
150  (6  fluidounces)  of  water.  Dote,  a tablespoonful  every  one,  two,  or  three  hours 
(Botkin,  Centralblatt  f g.  Ther .,  i.  361). 

JETHER,  U.  S.,  Br.,  P.  G.— Ether. 

jEther  sulphuricus , Naphtha  vitriol i. — Sulphuric  ether , E. ; Ether  liydrique  s.  vinique  s. 
sulfurique , Fr. ; JEther , Schwefeldther , G. ; Etere , F.  It ; Eter  sidfurico , Sp. 

Ether  of  the  specific  gravity  0.725-0.728  (£/.  $.),  0.735  {Br.),  0.720  (.P.  6r.),  0.720- 
0.725  (P.  Cod.,  F.  It.). 

Formula  (C2H5)20.  Molecular  weight  73.84. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Bectified  Spirit  50  fluidounces;  Sulphuric  Acid  10  fluid- 
ounces;  Chloride  of  Calcium  10  ounces;  Slaked  Lime  \ ounce;  Distilled  Water  13  fluid- 
ounces.  Mix  the  sulphuric  acid  with  12  fluidounces  of  the  spirit  in  a glass  matrass 
capable  of  containing  at  least  2 pints,  and,  not  allowing  the  mixture  to  cool,  connect  the 
matrass,  by  means  of  a bent  glass  tube,  with  a Liebig’s  condenser,  and  distil  with  a heat 
sufficient  to  maintain  the  liquid  in  brisk  ebullition.  As  soon  as  the  ethereal  fluid  begins 
to  pass  over,  supply  fresh  spirit  through  a tube  into  the  matrass  in  a continuous  stream, 
and  in  such  quantity  as  to  equal  the  volume  of  the  fluid  which  distils  over.  For  this 
purpose  use  a tube  furnished  with  a stopcock  to  regulate  the  supply,  connecting  one  end 
of  the  tube  with  a vessel  containing  the  spirit  raised  above  the  level  of  the  matrass,  and 
passing  the  other  end  through  a cork  fitted  into  the  matrass.  When  the  whole  of  the 
spirit  has  been  added  and  42  fluidounces  have  distilled  over  the  process  may  be  stopped. 
Dissolve  the  chloride  of  calcium  in  the  water,  add  the  lime,  and  agitate  the  mixture  in  a 
bottle  with  the  impure  ether.  Leave  the  mixture  at  rest  for  10  minutes,  pour  off  the 
light  supernatant  fluid,  and  distil  it  with  a gentle  heat  until  a glass  bead  of  specific  gravity 
0.735,  placed  in  the  receiver,  begins  to  float.  The  ether  and  spirit  retained  by  the  chloride 
of  calcium  and  by  the  residue  of  each  rectification  may  be  recovered  by  distillation  and 
used  in  a subsequent  operation. — Br. 

A detailed  account  of  the  process  of  ether  manufacture  in  this  country  will  be  found 
in  Squibb’s  Ephemeris , vol.  ii.  fol.  590  et  seq.  In  outline  it  may  be  stated  as  follows  : 
A mixture  of  alcohol  and  sulphuric  acid  is  heated  in  a suitable  still  to  about  130°  C. 
(266°  F.),  and  when  the  distillation  of  ether  has  begun,  a continuous  supply  of  fresh 
alcohol  is  turned  into  the  still,  and  so  regulated  as  to  keep  the  mixture  at  a constant 
quantity  and  temperature.  The  vapors  are  passed  through  two  purifiers,  the  first  con- 
taining a solution  of  potassa  for  the  purpose  of  thoroughly  washing  the  vapors  in  alka- 
line liquid  ; the  second  purifier  is  provided  with  a bed  of  pebble-stones,  and  here  the 
alcoholic  and  other  vapors  having  a higher  boiling-point  than  ether  are  condensed  and 
removed.  In  order  that  no  ether  may  be  lost,  both  purifiers  are  kept  heated,  and  the 
purified  ether  vapor  is  finally  condensed  in  a large  worm  surrounded  by  water. 

The  theoretical  yield  of  absolute  ether  is  never  wholly  obtained,  and  the  quantity 
will  vary  with  the  care  and  attention  bestowed.  It  is  important  that  the  temperature 
be  carefully  kept  between  130°  and  138°  C.  (266°  and  280°  F.)  ; if  it  fall  below  130° 
C.,  an  excess  of  alcohol  vapor  will  distil  over,  and  if  it  rises  above  138°  C.,  the  defi- 
ciency of  alcohol  in  the  still  causes  other  products  to  be  formed.  Since  in  the  forma- 
tion of  ether  sulphuric  acid  is  continually  regenerated,  its  power  of  etherification  is 
theoretically  unlimited,  but  in  practice  it  will  be  found  that  the  impurities  in  the  alcohol 
will  set  a limit,  and  gradually  the  acid  becomes  dark  and  tarry,  and  the  mixture  in  the 
still  liable  to  frothing.  According  to  Squibb,  a charge  of  360  pounds  of  sulphuric  acid 
will  etherify  about  120  barrels  of  alcohol,  provided  the  latter  be  clean  and  of  good 
quality. 

Etherijication. — When  alcohol  and  sulphuric  acid  are  mixed,  1 molecule  of  each  com- 
pound unites  to  form  ethylsulphuric  (sulphovinic)  acid  and  water ; C2II60  + II2S04  yields 
C2H5HS04  (ethylsulphuric  acid)  + H20.  On  the  application  of  heat  and  in  the  presence 
of  a fresh  portion  of  alcohol  a further  reaction  takes  place,  whereby  sulphuric  acid  is 
reproduced  and  ether  formed,  the  latter  distilling  over ; C2H5HS04  -f-  C2HfiO  yields 
H2S04  and  (C2H5)20.  The  apparent  result  of  the  entire  reaction,  it  will  be  noticed,  con- 
sists in  the  abstraction  of  1 molecule  of  water  from  2 molecules  of  alcohol,  the  remain- 
ing elements  forming  1 molecule  of  ether,  while  the  sulphuric  acid  remains  free,  merely 
determining  by  its  affinity  for  water  the  decomposition  of  the  alcohol.  The  incorrect- 
ness of  such  an  explanation  of  etherification  is  readily  demonstrated  by  the  different 
products  of  decomposition  obtained  in  case  the  supply  of  alcohol  is  insufficient  or  the 


130 


JETHER. 


sulphuric  acid  is  used  in  excess,  when  oil  of  wine,  sulphurous  acid,  olefiant  and  other 
gases,  are  generated.  (See  Oleum  ^ethereum.) 

The  crude  ether  obtained  by  the  usual  process  consists  of  ether,  alcohol,  and  water, 
but  contains,  besides  these,  variable  proportions  of  other  decomposition-products, 
among  which  sulphurous  acid,  oil  of  wine,  and  occasionally  acetic  acid,  are  found.  The 
acids  are  removed  by  agitating  the  crude  product  with  an  alkali — potassa  or  lime— in  the 
presence  of  water,  the  latter  serving  also  the  purpose  of  abstracting  much  of  the  alcohol 
from  the  ethereal  liquid.  To  avoid  the  loss  of  too  large  a quantity  of  ether,  the  potassa 
is  dissolved  in  a small  quantity  of  water,  or,  as  directed  by  the  British  Pharmacopoeia,  a 
larger  proportion  of  a nearly  concentrated  solution  of  calcium  chloride  containing  slaked 
lime  is  used,  which  dissolves  the  alcohol,  but  only  a small  quantity  of  ether.  When  the 
aqueous  liquid  after  sufficient  agitation  has  subsided,  the  ether  is  drawn  off  and  rectified 
until  the  distillate  has  the  proper  specific  gravity,  which  is  conveniently  ascertained, 
according  to  the  British  Pharmacopoeia,  by  keeping  in  the  receiver  a glass  bead  of  the 
proper  density,  which  will  begin  to  float  as  soon  as  the  density  of  the  distillate  is  the 
same.  This  rectification  is  best  performed  by  placing  the  retort  in  a water-bath,  then 
heating  the  bath  and  carefully  regulating  the  heat,  so  that  the  ebullition  never  becomes 
violent,  in  which  case  the  vapors  are  apt  to  escape  condensation  and  to  become  ignited. 
The  condenser  should  be  capacious  and  well  cooled  whenever  ether  is  distilled. 

Older  Theories. — Ether,  or  a mixture  of  ether  and  alcohol,  was  probably  obtained  by 
the  alchemists  in  the  thirteenth  century,  but  a process  for  its  preparation  from  equal  parts 
of  oil  of  vitriol  and  alcohol  was  first  devised,  in  the  sixteenth  century,  by  Valerius  Cordus, 
who  called  it  oleum  vitrioli  dulce  verum.  The  name  “ ether  ” (spiritus  sethereus)  was  first 
used  for  this  liquid  by  Frobenius  in  England  (1730).  Fourcroy  and  Vauquelin  (1797) 
regarded  ether  as  alcohol  deprived  of  water  by  the  action  of  sulphuric  acid,  and  Valentin 
Bose  proved  (1800)  that  ether  contains  neither  sulphur  nor  an  acid.  Berzelius  explained 
the  action  of  sulphuric  acid  upon  alcohol  by  catalytic  force.  Liebig  regarded  sulphovinic 
acid  as  a double  sulphate  of  water  and  ethylic  oxide  (ether),  which  is  decomposed  by  heat, 
with  the  liberation  of  ether.  Bose  explained  this  decomposition  by  water  displacing  the 
ether  from  the  compound  mentioned.  Graham  ascribed  the  result,  to  the  polymerizing 
power  of  sulphuric  or  sulphovinic  acid,  whereby  alcohol  = C2H2  4-  HO  (old  notation)  is 
converted  into  ether  — C4H4  + HO.  According  to  Bobiquet  (1854),  carbylic  sulphate  = 
C2H42S03  and  water  are  first  formed,  and  these,  with  alcohol,  yield  ether  and  sulphuric 
acid  ; thus  : C2H42S03  + 2H20  + C2HeO  C4H10O  + 2H2S04.  The  theory  explained  at 
the  beginning  of  this  article  was  first  advanced  by  Williamson  (1850-54),  and  is  supported 
by  the  discovery  of  ethers  containing  two  distinct  alcohol  radicals. 

Pure  ether. — iEther  purus,  Br. ; Pure  ether,  E.  ; Ether  hydrique  pur,  Fr.  ; Beiner 
.Ether,  G. 

Take  of  Ether  and  Distilled  Water,  each  2 pints  ; Lime  recently  burned  ? ounce ; 
Calcium  Chloride  4 ounces.  Put  the  ether  with  1 pint  of  the  water  into  a bottle,  and 
shake  them  together ; allow  them  to  remain  at  rest  for  a few  minutes,  and  when  the  two 
liquids  have  separated  decant  off  the  supernatant  ether  ; mix  this  with  the  remainder  of 
the  water,  and  again,  after  separation,  decant  as  before.  Put  now  the  washed  ether, 
together  with  the  lime  and  calcium  chloride,  into  a retort  to  which  a receiver  is  closely 
attached  ; let  them  stand  for  twenty-four  hours,  then  distil  with  the  aid  of  a gentle 
heat. — Br.  This  ether  has  a specific  gravity  not  exceeding  0.720  at  60°  F. 

The  process  of  the  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia  of  1870  differed  from  the  preceding  one  in  this, 
that  the  ether  was  agitated  with  an  equal  bulk  of  water,  then  decanted,  agitated  with 
calcium  chloride  and  lime  in  powder,  set  aside  for  twenty-four  hours,  decanted,  and  dis- 
tilled until  about  one-half  had  been  recovered,  the  remainder  yielding  a weaker  distillate. 

The  object  of  these  processes  is  the  removal  of  alcohol  by  agitating  the  ether  with  water, 
the  last  portions  of  which,  together  with  nearly  the  whole  of  the  remaining  alcohol,  are 
afterward  separated  by  the  calcium  chloride  and  lime,  the  latter  of  which  should  be  used 
unslaked.  The  distillation  may  be  continued  as  long  as  ether  of  the  proper  specific  gravity 
is  obtained.  The  weaker  ether,  recovered  by  continuing  the  distillation,  may  be  reserved 
for  a subsequent  operation. 

Properties.— 1.  Absolute  Ether.  It  is  a colorless,  very  limpid,  not  solidifiable 
liquid,  of  a strong  refractive  power,  and  having  a specific  gravity  0.710  at  20°  C.  (68° 
F.,  Bichter),  to  0.712  at  25°  C.  (77°  F.,  Gay-Lussac),  of  0.7188  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.,  Squibb). 
It  has  a peculiar  penetrating  odor  and  a sweetish,  pungent  taste.  It  boils  at  34°  to  35°  C. 
(93°  to  95°  F.),  the  vapors  having  a specific  gravity  of  2.58,  and  volatilizes  very  rap- 
idly at  ordinary  temperature,  thereby  producing  a considerable  diminution  of  tempera- 


.ETHER. 


131 


ture.  It  is  easily  ignited,  and  burns  with  a bright  flame,  yielding  water  and  carbon  diox- 
ide. Its  vapor,  mixed  with  a large  quantity  of  air.  if  ignited,  explodes  with  great  violence. 
In  consequence  of  this  property  and  of  the  great  density  of  its  vapor  great  care  should  be 
exercised  in  handling  ether  or  manipulating  with  it  in  the  vicinity  of  a flame.  It  dissolves 
phosphorus,  sulphur,  iodine,  bromine,  some  metallic  sulphides,  chlorides,  bromides,  and 
iodides,  bromoform.  iodoform,  chloroform,  alcohols,  benzene,  benzin,  fats,  volatile  oils, 
many  resins,  most  alkaloids,  and  some  organic  acids.  W.  H.  Greene  (1879)  observed 
that  on  mixing  20  Gm.  of  absolute  ether  with  43  Gm.  of  chloroform  the  temperature 
rises  15°  C.  and  little  contraction  in  volume  takes  place;  the  mixture  begins  to  boil  at 
50°  C.  and  may  be  separated  into  its  constituents  by  repeated  fractional  distillation. 
When  shaken  with  an  equal  bulk  of  water,  absolute  ether  loses  one-fourteenth  of  its  vol- 
ume, which  is  dissolved  by  the  water,  a little  of  this  liquid  being  dissolved  by  the  ether 
(Boullay).  The  presence  of  water  and  alcohol  is  detected  by  mixing  the  ether  with  an 
equal  bulk  of  carbon  disulphide,  which  should  result  in  a perfectly  clear  liquid ; a piece 
of  potassa  kept  in  the  ether  for  twenty-four  hours  becomes  coated  with  a yellowish  film 
and  imparts  a yellowish  color  to  the  liquid  if  alcohol  be  present  (Boettger,  1872).  Aniline- 
violet  is  insoluble  in  absolute  ether,  but  in  the  presence  of  1 per  cent,  of  alcohol  colors  the 
liquid  distinctly  (Stefanelli,  1875).  Well-dried  powdered  tannin  remains  pulverulent  in 
absolute  ether,  but  in  the  presence  of  water  forms  a tough  mass  or  thick  solution.  Fred- 
erking  (1870)  recommended  glycerin  for  the  detection  of  water  and  alcohol. 

Ether  has  a neutral  reaction  to  test-paper,  but  when  kept  for  a long  time  in  partly-filled 
bottles  acquires  an  acid  reaction  from  free  acetic  acid ; this  is  regarded  as  the  result  of 
oxidation,  facilitated  by  the  presence  of  moisture,  or,  as  suggested  by  X.  E.  Henry,  to  the 
decomposition  of  a little  acetic  ether  assumed  to  be  present  in  ether.  According  to  Lieben 
(1873),  alcohol  is  very  slowly  regenerated  when  ether  is  left  in  contact  with  water.  That 
ether  is  capable  of  forming  a hydrate  was  shown  by  Tanret  (1878),  who  on  filtering  an  ethe- 
real liquid  observed  on  the  upper  part  of  the  filter  a frost-like  congelation  having  the  tem- 
perature— 3.5°  C.  (25.7°  F.)  and  after  removing  adhering  ether  by  blowing  upon  it,  yield- 
ing 17  to  IS  parts  of  water  for  37  of  ether  ; the  formula  (C2H5).20.2H20  requires  18  parts. 

2.  U.  S.  P.  Ether  has  a density  of  0.725  to  0.728  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  or  0.714  to 
0.717  at  25°  C.  (77°  F.),  and  is  composed  of  about  96  per  cent,  of  ethyloxide  (absolute 
ether)  and  about  4 per  cent,  of  alcohol  containing  a little  water ; it  boils  at  37°  C.  (98.5° 
F.),  and  dissolves  in  10  times  its  volume  of  water  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.).  The  specific 
gravity  of  ether  required  by  other  pharmacopoeias  is  not  exceeding  0.735  at  60°  F.  (Z?/\), 
0.720  to  0.725  at  15°  C.  (F.  Cod.),  0.720  at  15°  C.  (P.  G.). 

If  a piece  of  pale-blue  litmus-paper  moistened  with  water  be  immersed  ten  minutes  in 
a portion  of  the  ether,  the  color  should  not  change.  On  evaporating  at  least  50  Cc.  in 
a glass  vessel  no  fixed  residue  should  appear,  and  on  evaporating  a portion  dropped  upon 
blotting-paper  no  foreign  odor  should  be  developed.  Ether  shaken  occasionally,  within 
one  hour,  with  one-tenth  of  its  volume  of  normal  potassium  hydroxide  solution  should  not 
develop  any  color,  showing  the  absence  of  aldehyde,  etc. 

The  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia  recognizes  but  one  variety  of  ether,  as  does  also  the  German, 
the  British  Ph.  still  continuing  two  varieties,  differing  from  each  other  only  to  the  ex- 
tent of  about  4 per  cent.  (C2H5)20.  The  commercial  varieties  known  as  “ washed”  and 
“ concentrated  ” ether  will  no  doubt  continue  in  the  market,  but  should  never  be  em- 
ployed for  medicinal  purposes,  as  their  composition  and  degree  of  purity  are  not  stated ; 
there  is  surely  no  pharmaceutical  use  to  which  ether  can  be  put  for  which  the  pharma- 
copceial  ether  could  not  be  employed. 

Hager  gives  the  following  table,  showing  the  percentage  by  weight  of  ether  of  the 
specific  gravity  0.7185.  contained  in  the  alcoholic  distillates  obtained  in  the  rectification 
of  ether;  temperature  17.5°  C.  (68.5°  F.) : 


Per  ct. 
ether. 

Specific 

gravity. 

Per  ct. 
ether. 

Specific 

gravity. 

Per  ct. 
ether. 

Specific 

gravity. 

Per  ct  . 
ether. 

Specific 

gravity. 

Per  ct. 
ether. 

Specific 

gravity. 

99 

0.7198 

89 

0.7296 

79 

0.7397 

69 

0.7516 

59 

0.7640 

98 

0.7206 

88 

0.7300 

78 

0.740S 

68 

0.7528 

58 

0.7653 

97 

0.7215 

87 

0.7310 

1 1 

0.7420 

67 

0.7540 

i 57 

0.7666 

96 

0.7224 

86 

0.7320 

76 

0.7432 

66 

0.7552 

56 

0.7680 

95 

0.7233 

85 

0.7331 

75 

0.7444 

65 

0.7564 

55 

0.7693 

94 

0.7242 

84 

0.7342 

74 

0.7456 

64 

o.(  676 

54 

0.7707 

93 

0.7251 

83 

0.7353 

73 

0.7468 

63 

0.7588 

53 

0.7721 

92 

0.7260 

82 

0.7364 

72 

0.7480 

62 

0.7601 

52 

0.7735 

91 

0.7270 

81 

0.7375 

71 

0.7492 

61 

0.7614 

51 

0.7750 

90 

0.7280 

80 

0.7386 

70 

0.7504 

60 

0.7627 

50 

0.7764 

132 


JETHER. 


According  to  the  same  author,  100  measures  of  water  dissolve  the  following  measures 
of  ether  of  the  densities  stated : 8 meas.  ether,  sp.  gr.  0.719-0.721 ; 10  meas.  ether,  sp.  gr. 
0.724-0.726 ; 13  meas.  ether,  sp.  gr.  0.729-0.731 ; 16  meas.  ether,  sp.  gr.  0.733-0.735  ; 20 
meas.  ether,  sp.  gr.  0.738-0.741 ; 23  meas.  ether,  sp.  gr.  0.743-0.746 ; 26  meas.  ether,  sp. 
gr.  0.748-0.750. 

Allied  Compounds. — JEther  Formicicus,  Formic  ether,  E. ; Ameisenather,  G. — C2II5 
CH02.  Mol.  weight  73.83.  It  was  first  obtained  by  Bucholz  (1782),  and  may  be  prepared  by 
distilling  a mixture  of  8 parts  of  dry  sodium  formate,  7 parts  of  alcohol  (88  per  cent.),  and  11 
parts  of  strong  sulphuric  acid.  Usually  sufficient  heat  is  produced  upon  addition  of  the  acid  to  vola- 
tilize the  ether,  and  the  distillate,  if  acid,  is  shaken  with  milk  of  lime  or  magnesia,  and  finally 
rectified  from  calcium  .chloride.  Formic  ether  is  a thin,  colorless,  inflammable  liquid  of  strong 
agreeable  odor  and  pungent  taste.  Its  spec.  grav.  is  0.918  at  17°  C.  (62.80  F.),  and  its  boiling- 
point  55°  C.  (131°  F.)  ; it  is  soluble  in  9 parts  of  water  and  in  all  proportions  in  alcohol,  ether, 
fixed  and  volatile  oils.  When  inhaled,  it  lowers  the  temperature  as  much  as  3.5°  C.  (6.3°  F.), 
inducing  signs  of  asphyxia,  and  causes  muscular  relaxation  and  anaesthesia.  In  man  6 or  8 Gm. 
occasion  no  other  symptom  than  drowsiness. 

JEther  Methylicus. — Methylic  ether,  Methyl  oxide,  E. ; Methylather,  Holzather,  G. — 
(CH3)20,  Mol.  weight  45.90.  It  was  discovered  by  Dumas  and  Peligot  (1835),  and  is  prepared 
by  distilling  a mixture  of  1 part  of  methylic  alcohol  and  4 parts  of  sulphuric  acid  ; the  vapors 
are  washed  by  passing  through  potassa  solution  or  milk  of  lime,  whereby  carbon  and  sulphur 
dioxides,  as  well  as  methyl  sulphuric  ether,  are  removed.  The  latter  body,  having  a garlic-like 
odor,  is  decomposed.  Methylic  ether  is  a colorless,  inflammable  gas,  heavier  than  air,  of  an 
ethereal  odor  and  aromatic  taste.  At — 36°  C.  ( — 32.8°  F.)  it  forms  a colorless  liquid  which 
boils  at  — 21°  C.  ( — 5.8°  F.).  Water  dissolves  35  volumes  of  the  gas,  acquiring  its  odor  and  taste, 
and  evolving  it  again  at  a moderate  heat.  It  is  more  soluble  in  sulphuric  acid,  and  still  more 
freely  in  alcohol,  methylic  alcohol  and  ether.  A solution  in  the  latter  liquid  saturated  at  0°  C. 
(32°  F.),  has  been  recommended  by  Dr.  B.  W.  Richardson  under  the  name  of  methylic-ethylic 
ether  (see  below)  as  a safe,  rapidly-acting  anaesthetic  ; it  should  be  kept  in  well-corked  bottles  in 
a cool  place. 

JEther  Methylethylicus. — Methyl-ethyl  ether,  Methyl-ethyloxide,  E. ; Methylaethylather, 
G.  CII3C2H50.  This  compound,  which  must  not  be  confounded  with  the  solution  of  Dr. 
Richardson  mentioned  above,  was  first  obtained  by  Williamson  by  the  action  of  ethyl  iodide 
upon  sodium  methylate,  and  this  has  proven  to  be  the  best  method  since.  The  two  substances 
are  made  to  react  in  a retort,  and  the  vapors  made  to  pass  through  a weak  soda  solution  cooled  to 
15°  C.  (59°  F.),  whereby  volatile  by-products  are  removed,  the  methyl-ethyl  ether  being  finally 
condensed  in  a well-cooled  receiver.  It  is  a colorless  liquid,  very  inflammable,  of  peculiar 
characteristic  odor,  boiling  at  1 1°  C.  (51.8°  F.).  Its  use  as  an  anaesthetic  has  been  very  limited. 

Methylal,  Methylen-dimethyl  ether. — CH2(OCH3)2.  This  body,  belonging  to  the  group 
known  as  “acetals, was  first  obtained  pure  by  Malaguti  (1839).  It  is  prepared  by  acting  on 
methyl  alcohol  with  a mixture  of  manganese  dioxide  and  sulphuric  acid,  the  resulting  distillate 
being  purified  by  fractional  distillation  and  dehydration.  It  is  a colorless,  limpid  liquid,  of 
penetrating  ethereal  odor,  boiling  at  42°  C.  (106.6°  F.),  and  having  a specific  gravity  of  0.855. 
It  is  soluble  in  13  parts  of  water,  also  in  alcohol,  ether,  and  fixed  and  volatile  oils.  Sulphuric 
acid  decomposes  it,  but  alkalies  are  without  effect.  Methylal  has  been  used  as  an  anaesthetic  and 
as  a hypnotic  in  doses  of  1 or  1 1 drachms  mixed  with  syrup  and  water.  The  information  re- 
garding its  actions  is  meagre. 

Action  and  Uses. — On  man  the  primary  impression  of  ether,  even  when  smelled, 
is  that  of  an  agreeable  nervous  stimulant.  On  the  skin  it  excites  coolness  if  allowed  to 
evaporate,  but  irritates  if  confined.  When  swallowed,  it  creates  burning  heat  in  the  throat, 
oesophagus,  and  'Stomach,  and  a rapid  intoxication  like  that  of  alcohol,  but  more  intense 
and  of  shorter  duration.  When  inhaled,  pure  ether  excites  at  first  cough  and  dyspnoea, 
and  then  a prickling  of  the  hands  and  feet  and  exhilaration  of  the  spirits,  with  a peculiar 
perception  of  lightness,  while  all  the  senses  become  perverted  or  blunted : that  of  touch 
much  less  so  than  the  sense  of  pain,  so  that  severe  injuries  may  be  received  without 
their  being  felt,  and  brief  operations  may  at  this  stage  be  advantangeously  performed. 
The  muscular  system  gradually  becomes  relaxed,  while  consciousness  is  growing  more  per- 
verted or  obscured.  Meanwhile,  the  pulse  and  respiration  are  generally  quickened,  the 
skin  becomes  warm  and  moist,  and  the  pupils  are  contracted;  but  as  complete  uncon- 
sciousness and  anaesthesia  supervene,  general  relaxation  is  more  or  less  rapidly  displayed, 
the  pupils  are  dilated,  the  respiration  is  slow  and  deep,  the  pulse  infrequent  and  feeble, 
the  skin  cool  and  moist,  and  sometimes  cyanotic.  Drs.  Leidy,  Jr.,  and  Hare  have  found 
that  during  various  surgical  operations  under  ether  the  temperature  fell  several  degrees 
( Therap . Gaz .,  xii.  317).  This  state  continues  only  for  a few  moments  after  the  vapor 
ceases  to  be  inhaled  ; consciousness  returns  almost  suddenly,  but  numbness  and  weakness 
remain  for  some  time  longer.  Of  occasional  after-effects  of  ansesthesia  from  ether  may 
be  mentioned  vomiting,  congestion  of  the  brain  or  lungs,  various  hysterical  phenomena, 


JETHER. 


133 


and  more  rarely  epileptiform  or  tetanoid  symptoms,  but  these  effects  are  exceedingly  rare 
when  the  ether  is  pure  and  skilfully  given.  The  first,  vomiting,  is  less  usual  than  after 
chloroform.  The  sensory  and  psychical  effects  of  ether  are  various : rushing  and  roar- 
ing noises  are  heard,  phantasmagorial  visions  are  beheld,  and  these  seem  to  prompt  cer- 
tain unconscious  acts,  for  sometimes  a pugnacious  disposition  is  developed,  sometimes  an 
amorous,  and  even  a lascivious,  tendency,  and,  again,  an  irrepressible  tendency  to  say 
things  which  under  normal  circumstances  would  have  been  kept  profoundly  secret,  or  to 
use  indecorous  and  even  indecent  language.  Several  cases  of  mania  following  upon  the 
surgical  use  of  ether  have  been  reported  by  Dr.  Shepard  (. Amer . Jour.  Med.  Sci .,  Dec. 
1888,  p.  591)  ; and  one  by  Dr.  Homans  in  which  dementia  was  attributed  to  this  cause 
( Boston  Med  and  Surg.  Jour.  Aug.  1889,  p.  110).  Ether  drunkenness,  like  chloral 
intoxication,  numbers  a great  many  victims,  most  of  whom,  but  for  fanatical  notions  of 
temperance,  would  have  become  the  prey  of  alcohol.  It  appears  to  be  less  permanently 
injurious  than  the  more  usual  and  brutal  vice,  for  if  some  deaths  are  attributed  to  it, 
there  are  instances  of  its  habitual  indulgence  without  serious  injury.  In  the  case  of  a 
lad  addicted  to  it  the  usual  doses  at  last  amounted  to  between  1 and  2 pints  daily,  with- 
out apparently  impairing  his  mind  (Boston  Med.  and  Burg.  Jour.,  Sept.  1881,  p.  262; 
May,  1889,  p.  522  ; Med.  Record , xxiv.  459). 

In  appropriate  cases,  and  properly  administered,  we  believe  pure  sulphuric  ether  to  be 
beyond  all  comparison  the  safest  of  the  anaesthetic  agents  employed  in  general  surgery, 
and  that  when  these  conditions  have  been  observed  there  is  not  a single  authenticated  exam- 
ple of  its  having  destroyed  life.  Unfortunately,  it  is  not  always  possible  to  determine 
beforehand  in  what  cases  this  anaesthetic  is  appropriate.  The  danger  may  lie  in  a special 
susceptibility  of  the  heart  or  of  the  central  nervous  system.  The  practical  superiority 
of  ether  over  chloroform  is  that  in  cases  suitable  for  the  anaesthetic  use  of  either  agent 
the  pulse  early  gives  warning  of  danger  from  ether,  but  in  death  by  chloroform  no  such 
signal  can  be  relied  on.  In  1880  a committee  of  the  British  Medical  Association  pre- 
sented a report  upon  anaesthetics,  in  which  the  following  statements  occur:  “The  danger 
with  ether  approaches  from  the  pulmonary  rather  than  the  cardiac  side,  so  that  by  estab- 
lishing artificial  respiration  we  have  a means  of  warding  off  death;”  and  again:  “The 
advantages  which  chloroform  possesses  over  ether  are  more  than  counterbalanced  by  its 
additional  dangers.”  This  verdict  is  supported  by  the  testimony  of  competent  witnesses. 
In  November,  1884,  Mr.  Braine  of  London  made  a comparative  study  of  the  several 
surgical  anaesthetics,  and  awarded  to  ether  a superiority  over  all  except  for  very  short 
operations  (Times  and  Gaz.,  Nov.  1884,  p.  758).  In  the  following  year  Dr.  Brunton 
reached  substantially  the  same  conclusion,  even  while  addmitting  that  in  rare  instances 
ether  might  cause  death  by  syncope  (ibid.,  Aug.  1885,  p.  251).  The  testimony  of  Dr. 
Squire  of  the  use  of  ether  during  the  English  campaign  in  Egypt  is  very  pertinent.  He 
found  that  in  the  climate  of  that  country  chloroform  depressed  the  patients,  but  ether 
stimulated  them,  so  that  they  suffered  little  from  the  shock  of  operations.  He  used  an 
inhaler  and  gave  the  ethereal  vapor  without  any  admixture  of  atmospheric  air  (ibid., 
Nov.  1885,  p.  631).  Among  later  testimony  upon  the  subject  may  be  cited  that  of 
Dumont  in  Berne,  Switzerland,  who  maintains  the  practical  superiority  of  ether  on  the 
grounds  that  it  is  not  more  unpleasant  than  chloroform,  nor  is  its  administration  more 
complicated  (especially  if  a mask  is  used)  ; it  is  not  so  apt  to  occasion  vomiting,  and  its 
effects  are  as  prolonged  as  those  of  chloroform,  and  are  less  dangerous,  because  the  former 
primarily  and  as  a rule  affects  the  lungs,  but  the  latter  the  heart  (Therap.  Monatshefte, 
Feb.  1889,  p.  87 ; compare  Stockwell,  Therap.  Gaz.,  xiv.  590 ; Wood,  Med.  News,  lvii. 
121  ; Silex,  Centralbl.  f.  Therap .,  viii.  229  ; Butter,  ibid.  p.  294).  There  is  no  doubt 
that  ether  is  more  liable  than  chloroform  to  occasion  pulmonary  congestion  and  renal 
irritation  (Med.  Record,  xxxi.  122,  199,  254),  but  these  are  not  direct  effects  of  its  adminis- 
tration ; yet  it  should  be  cautiously  used  when  the  lungs  or  the  kidneys  are  not  sound. 
It  is  not  eligible  for  very  fat  persons  whose  breathing  capacity  is  restricted.  It  may  be 
mentioned  that  the  convenience  afforded  by  ether  (or  other  anaesthetic)  may  tempt  sur 
geons  to  operate  too  soon  when  the  shock  of  an  accident  has  been  sustained,  and  too 
deliberately  as  well,  so  that  the  physical  depression  of  the  system  is  unduly  prolonged 
(Cheever,  Boston  Med.  and,  Surg.  Jour.,  Sept.  1888,  p.  293). 

The  statement  must  not,  however,  be  omitted  that  within  a comparatively  recent  period 
deaths  from  ether  have  occurred  with  precisely  the  same  phenomena  as  those  caused  by 
chloroform  (Med.  Neivs,  xliv.  78  ; xlv.  345  ; *1.  89,  109,  166  ; Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour., 
July,  1884,  p.  3 ; Lancet,  Apr.  1889,  p.  800  ; ibid.,  Sept.  1890,  pp.  584,  587  ; Med.  Record , 
xxxvii.  71). 


134 


jETHER. 


The  inhalation  of  the  vapor  of  ether  has  in  a great  measure  supplanted  its  earlier 
administration  in  a liquid  form,  but  the  latter  should  not  be  neglected.  It  may  be  given 
to  alleviate  nervous  headache  and  the  pain  of  flatulent,  renal,  and  hepatic  colic , spasmodic 
vomiting , including  that  of  pregnancy  and  sea-sickness,  and  asthma , and  also  to  prevent  or 
subdue  the  paroxysms  of  hysteria.  Even  puerperal  mania  has  been  held  in  check  by  ethereal 
snemata.  It  is  occasionally  indicated  as  an  adjuvant  to  alcohol  in  the  typhoid  state  of 
febrile  affections,  particularly  when  some  temporary  exhaustion  calls  for  a transient  but 
vigorous  stimulation.  In  comparatively  recent  years  ether  has  been  administered  hypo- 
dermically as  a stimulant  in  cases  of  exhaustion  from  haemorrhage,. in  the  adynamic  stage 
of  fevers  ( Bull . et  Mem.  de  la  Soc.  de  Therap .,  1882,  p.  127)  ; but  it  is  not  quite  clear  that 
its  administration  by  the  mouth  or  the  rectum  would  not  have  been  as  efficient.  In 
urgent  cases  the  ordinary  hypodermic  syringeful  has  been  injected,  and  the  operation 
repeated  at  intervals  of  several  hours.  It  would  appear  that  abscesses  are  very  apt  to 
follow  this  operation.  In  the  treatment  of  tape-worm  a full  dose  of  ether  to  benumb  the 
parasite,  so  as  to  facilitate  its  expulsion  by  means  of  castor  oil,  given  directly  afterward, 
is  sometimes  successful ; and  so  are  enemata  of  ether  in  destroying  ascarides  of  the  rec- 
tum, and  lotions  of  it  for  removing  crab-lice  (pedictdi  pubis').  Ether  has  been  used  for 

a long  time  in  conjunction  with  oil  of  turpentine  and  also  with  castor  oil  with  a view  of 
removing  biliary  calculi  by  dissolving  them.  The  efficacy  of  the  treatment,  if  real,  may 
depend  in  part  upon  the  local  anaesthetic  action  of  the  medicine,  but  some  authorities 
entitled  to  respect  maintain  the  reality  of  its  solvent  operation  also.  Whatever  view  of 
its  mode  of  action  may  be  entertained,  it  is  certain  that  ether  very  frequently  removes 
the  symptoms  of  biliary  calculi.  The  difficulty  of  digesting  cod-liver  oil  and  other  forms  of 
fatty  food  in  pulmonary  phthisis  has  been  supposed  to  depend  upon  a deficiency  of  pancreatic 
juice  and  the  crude  condition  in  which  such  food  is  brought  into  contact  with  that  secre- 
tion. It  is  claimed  that  ether,  by  emulsifying  the  oil,  and  also  stimulating  the  stomach 
and  duodenum,  and  thereby  increasing  the  flow  of  pancreatic  juice,  renders  the  aliment 
much  more  assimilable  than  it  would  otherwise  be.  It  is  also  claimed  that  these  views 
have  received  the  confirmation  of  experience,  and  that  by  the  use  of  ether  after  taking 
the  food  in  question  it  is  fully  and  easily  digested,  and  that  the  objects  of  its  adminis- 
tration, the  increase  of  the  patient’s  weight  and  the  abatement  of  the  pulmonary  symp- 
toms, are  secured.  The  scientific  adaptation  of  the  medicine  to  the  purpose  in  view  is 
very  complete,  but,  like  other  remedies  proposed  on  similar  ground,  and  by  their  pro- 
posers regarded  as  fulfilling  their  object,  this  one  does  not  appear  to  have  been  found 
successful.  On  the  contrary,  the  unpleasant  taste  of  ether,  whether  given  separately  or 
combined  with  oil,  and  the  offensive  eructations  to  which  it  gives  rise,  render  a continued 
use  of  it  difficult,  if  not  impossible,  and  evidence  is  wanting  to  confirm  the  results  at  one 
time  attributed  to  it.  The  rectal  administration  of  ethereal  vapor  has  been  claimed  as 
a successful  method  of  treating  cholera  ; but  this  extravagant  pretension  has  not  been 
sustained.  In  small  doses  it  may  sometimes  be  advantageous  as  a diffusible  stimulant. 
Similar  enemas  have  been  found  useful  in  the  treatment  of  lead  colic. 

Besides  being  taken  internally,  ether  in  its  liquid  form  is  applied  externally  to  produce 
anaesthesia  or  by  the  cold  it  occasions  in  evaporating  to  cause  a contraction  of  the  tissues. 
With  the  former  object  it  is  familiarly  used  to  relieve  the  pain  of  neuralgic  headache , and 
also  when  applied  over  the  superficial  portions  of  nerves  to  palliate  neuralgia.  It  affords 
prompt  relief  in  toothache  from  carious  cavities,  especially  when  associated  with  camphor, 
and  also  in  earache  when  applied  on  cotton  with  oil  or  in  the  form  of  vapor.  In  some 
cases  of  deafness  due  to  a rheumatic  condition  of  the  auditory  canal  it  is  said  to  have  been 
curative.  In  irritative  congestion  of  the  retina,  and  photophobia  generally,  a little  ether 
allowed  to  evaporate  from  cotton-wood,  so  placed  in  the  hollow  of  the  hand  as  to  cover 
the  eye  at  the  distance  of  an  inch  or  two,  affords  decided  relief.  The  refrigerant  action 
of  ether  is  best  shown  in  some  cases  of  hernia  strangulated  by  a mere  excess  of  blood 
in  the  tumor;  it  contracts  the  tissues,  expels  the  blood,  and  permits  the  reduction  of  the 
bowel.  The  vomiting  of  pregnancy , which,  as  above  stated,  has  sometimes  been  arrested 
by  the  inhalation  of  ether,  is  also  said  to  have  been  subdued  “ by  freezing  the  pneumo- 
gastric  nerve  under  the  sterno-mastoid  on  both  sides  of  the  neck  alternately  ” (Lester). 
A similar  application  “ first  to  the  epigastrium,  and  then  for  five  minutes  on  both  sides  of 
the  throat,”  is  stated  to  have  relieved  obstinate  hiccup  (Regoni).  It  is  claimed  that  ether 
spray  can  arrest  the  development  of  malignant  pustule  and  carbuncle  (Zimberlin),  and 
also  of  tonsillitis  (Concato). 

Ethereal  inhalation  is  employed  to  produce  anaesthesia,  and  thereby,  according  to  its 
degree,  to  relieve  pain,  relax  muscular  tension  and  spasm,  or  produce  unconsciousness.  In 


jETHER. 


135 


surgery  it  permits  the  performance  of  operations  which  would  without  it  be  inexpedient 
or  impracticable,  both  by  abolishing  the  sense  of  pain  and  preventing  the  struggles  of  the 
patient,  and  hence  it  has  probably  diminished  the  mortality  of  grave  surgical  operations. 
It  has  been  successfully  administered  for  this  purpose  while  the  patient  remained  asleep 
(Jour.  Am.  Med.  Assoc.,  i.  244).  Age  is  no  contraindication  to  its  use,  but  it  should 
rarely  be  employed  when  there  is  disease  of  the  kidneys,  lungs,  brain,  or  heart,  or  when 
the  sensations  of  the  patient  are  needful  to  guide  the  surgeon’s  hand.  Operations  upon 
the  fauces  and  nasal  passages  involving  the  flow  of  blood  are  embarrassed,  and  may  be 
rendered  dangerous,  by  anaesthesia  ; it  is  unfavorable  to  success  whenever  the  voluntary 
muscular  action  of  the  patient  is  required  ; it  is  unnecessary  when  the  duration  of  an 
operation  is  short  or  its  severity  is  insignificant.  In  general,  the  severer  the  operation  the 
less  danger  of  accident  is  there  from  inhaling  ether  ; in  the  greater  number  of  cases 
when  alarming  symptoms  have  occurred  the  operation  was  trivial,  as  in  extracting  teeth, 
opening  abscesses,  etc.  In  obstetrics  the  inhalation  of  ether  robs  the  throes  of  labor  of 
their  acutest  pain,  and  hence  lessens  the  exhaustion  of  the  patient ; and  in  tedious  and 
complicated  labors,  in  cases  of  great  tenderness  or  rigidity  of  the  maternal  organs,  of 
unusual  susceptibility  to  pain  and  great  nervous  irritability,  in  labors  requiring  manual 
or  instrumental  interference,  and  in  puerperal  convulsions , anaesthesia  by  ether  has  long 
been  and  continues  to  be  a precious  remedy.  It  does  not  involve  any  risk  of  injury 
either  to  child  or  mother  if  judiciously  employed,  while,  by  lessening  the  rigidity  of  the 
os  uteri  and  perineum  without  impairing  the  strength  of  the  expulsive  efforts,  it  facili- 
tates and  shortens  labor.  For  these  purposes  it  is  most  valuable  in  the  first  and  in  the 
last  stages  of  labor.  It  is  seldom  necessary  or  proper  to  maintain  its  action  throughout 
this  process.  It  is  the  best  palliative  for  after-pains.  For  all  of  the  purposes  mentioned 
except  those  which  involve  operations  on  the  interior  of  the  uterus,  it  is  unnecessary 
to  produce  the  narcotic  degree  of  anaesthesia.  It  is  proper,  however,  to  observe  that 
during  childbirth  a degree  of  anaesthesia,  by  any  of  the  agents  employed,  may  be  pro- 
duced without  danger  which,  under  other  circumstances,  and  especially  in  surgical  opera- 
tions, might  be  attended  with  risk.  This  peculiar  immunity  of  the  parturient  woman  is 
probably  due  to  the  high  nervous  tension  which  her  state  involves. 

The  diseases  which  call  for  anaesthesia  include  all  painful  and  spasmodic  affections  ; 
e.  g.  dysmenorrhcea , gout  in  the  stomach,  biliary  and  nephritic  colic , tetanus , hydrophobia, 
chorea , hysteria,  puerperal  and  other  reflex  convulsions,  whooping  cough,  spasmodic  croup, 
laryngismus  stridulus , delirum  tremens,  mania,  etc.  In  all  of  these  it  eliminates  one  or 
the  other,  or  both,  of  the  symptoms  which  tend  to  exhaust  the  patient.  In  some  local 
affections  of  a painful  nature,  such  as  lumbago,  sciatica,  and  other  forms  of  neuralgia, 
ether  has  been  employed  hypodermically  with  advantage.  The  dose  at  first  should  not 
usually  exceed  10  or  15  minims ; subsequently  it  may  be  increased. 

Local  anaesthesia  may  be  produced  by  projecting  upon  the  skin  a stream  of  atomized 
pure  ether  or  of  ether  and  chloroform.  The  former  is  preferable,  from  the  rapidity  of 
its  action  and  the  complete  congelation  it  produces,  so  that  a variety  of  surgical  opera- 
tions may  be  performed  by  its  aid  without  inflicting  pain.  Among  them  are  not  only 
such  minor  ones  as  opening  abscesses,  the  evulsion  of  nails,  the  excision  of  naevi,  haemor- 
rhoids, and  other  small  tumors,  and  the  amputation  of  fingers,  the  incision  of  carbuncles, 
fistulae,  etc.,  but  this  method  has  also  been  applied  to  the  removal  of  large  tumors  of  the 
skin,  breast,  etc.,  to  amputations,  ovariotomy,  Caesarean  section,  etc.  The  latter  uses 
indicate  rather  the  extreme  limits  of  its  application  than  its  practical  utility.  Local 
anaesthesia  of  the  lumbo-sacral  region  by  ethereal  vapor  has  been  used  to  mitigate  the 
throes  of  labor  ; of  the  hypogastric  region  to  arrest  uterine  haemorrhage  and  promote 
contraction  of  the  uterus ; to  facilitate  the  reduction  of  hernia  ( Amer . Jour.  Med.  Sci., 
Nov.  1889,  p.  527 ; Lancet , April,  etc.  1889,  pp.  836,  910,  1031)  ; of  intestinal  obstruction 
(Bull,  de  Therap.,  cxvii.  574)  and  of  paraphimosis  ; to  relieve  the  pain  of  neuralgia  by 
a direct  action,  and  the  spasms  of  chorea  and  other  spasmodic  affections  by  its  application 
to  the  spine.  The  local  use  of  ether  as  an  anodyne  antedates  the  discovery  of  anaes- 
thesia by  the  inhalation  of  ether. 

The  hypodermic  use  of  ether  has  been  largely  extended.  About  1 Ccm.  has  been 
generally  injected  at  a time,  and  the  operation  repeated  as  often  as  necessary.  It  causes 
a smarting  and  burning  pain  for  a short  time,  but  usually  no  further  ill  effects,  provided 
the  instrument  does  not  penetrate  beyond  the  subcutaneous  connective  tissue.  -Deeper 
wounds  have  sometimes  occasioned  paralysis  of  parts  beyond  the  point  of  puncture, 
which  has  been  attributed  to  a solvent  action  upon  the  nerve-structure  (Practitioner , 
xxxix.  62 ; Centralbl.  f.  Therap.,  vi.  484 ; Univers.  Med.  Mag.,  iii.  42).  This  method 


136 


MT1IER. 


has  been  found  singularly  efficient  in  cases  of  collapse,  however  arising,  when  the  patient 
is  unable  to  swallow  ; e.  g.  in  cholera , typhoid  fever , pneumonia , pulmonary  oedema , capil- 
lary bronchitis , infantile  and  puerperal  convulsions , post-partum  and  other  haemorrhages,  the 
collapse  of  opium-  and  chloral-poisoning , etc.  Bamberger  used  for  subcutaneous  injec- 
tion a syringeful  of  ether  in  cases  of  venous  stasis  and  dropsy  due  to  feeble  heart  and 
threatening  death  by  asphyxia.  Not  only  were  the  cardiac  distress  and  the  pulmonary 
congestion  promptly  relieved,  but  the  secretion  of  urine  was  immediately  increased  while 
the  dropsy  declined  ( Centralbl.  f Tlier .,  vi.  526).  The  last-named  effect  had  already 
been  described  by  Zuelzer  {ibid.,  i.  472).  The  same  expedient  was  equally  successful  in 
the  hands  of  Heitler  and  of  Hoegerstedt  {ibid.,  p.  641).  Sebaceous  tumors  of  the  scalp 
have  been  successfully  treated  by  injecting  into  them  with  a hypodermic  syringe  from  5 
to  10  drops  of  ether  three  or  four  times,  at  intervals  of  several  days,  until  the  contents 
of  the  cyst  were  liquefied  and  its  walls  inflamed,  when  the  dissolved  sebaceous  matter 
and  the  pus  were  pressed  out  {Bull,  de  Therap.,  cv.  454). 

Administration. — The  average  dose  of  sulphuric  ether  is  a fluidrachrn  (Gm.  4). 
It  may  be  administered  upon  powdered  sugar  and  rapidly  swallowed  with  a mouthful  of 
water.  Smaller  doses  may  be  given  by  incorporating  it  with  syrup  or  spermaceti,  and 
diluting  the  mixture  with  water  or  mucilage,  which  should  be  made  cold  by  ice  if  possi- 
ble. It  has  also  been  administered  in  gelatin  capsules.  For  producing  anaesthesia  ether 
should  be  administered  by  some  one  familiar  with  it,  and  who  will  attend  to  nothing  else. 
Artificial  teeth  and  all  other  foreign  bodies  should  be  removed  from  the  mouth.  Ether 
should  not  be  used  while  the  stomach  contains  food ; no  alcoholic  drink  of  any  kind 
should  be  given  to  the  patient  before  the  operation,  nor  should  he  be  kept  under  the 
influence  of  the  anaesthetic  longer  than  is  absolutely  necessary.  According  to  Mr. 
Osborn,  chloroformist  to  St.  Thomas’s  Hospital,  London,  “ Valvular  disease  of  the  heart, 
shown  by  cardiac  murmurs,  need  be  no  hindrance  to  the  administration  of  ether,  a fatty 
heart  which  is  not  diagnoscible  by  any  auscultatory  signs  being  the  form  of  heart  disease 
which  is  the  most  dangerous.”  Feebleness  of  pulse  also  is  not  a contraindication  to  the 
inhalation  of  ether;  indeed,  a depressed  pulse  frequently  acquires  strength  and  volume 
under  its  influence.  Ether  should  not  be  given  to  the  production  of  narcotism  in  per- 
sons whose  urine  is  albuminous.  It  is  most  conveniently  employed  by  means  of  a sponge 
saturated  with  ether  and  enclosed  in  a cone  made  of  a napkin  or  of  coarse  paper,  large 
enough  to  cover  the  nose  and  mouth  of  the  patient  and  open  at  the  smaller  end.  Or 
if  the  napkin  alone  be  employed,  the  ether  may  be  poured  freely  upon  its  internal  surface. 
It  has  been  held  that  a capital  precept  in  etherization  is  to  produce  anaesthesia  as  rapidly 
as  possible  by  overwhelming  the  patient  with  as  much  of  the  vapor  as  he  can  possibly 
inhale.  This  method  has  been  generally  preferred  by  American  surgeons,  but  Mr.  Osborn, 
above  referred  to,  would  apply  to  all  anaesthetics  the  same  law,  that  the  first  inhalations 
of  the  vapor  should  be  freely  diluted  with  air,  for  large  quantities  of  it  suddenly  placed 
over  the  patient’s  mouth  and  nostrils  occasion  gasping,  choking,  and  struggling  for  breath. 
The  use  of  an  inhaler  is  to  be  recommended,  but  it  is  less  commonly  employed  than  it 
should  be.  It  not  only  economizes  ether,  but  protects  the  operator  and  assistants  from 
the  nauseating  and  intoxicating  influence  of  the  vapor.  It  also  greatly  hastens  the 
anaesthetic  state.  If  during  the  initial  stage  the  patient  breathe  through  the  nostrils 
only,  he  will  be  less  apt  to  cough  or  to  have  laryngeal  spasm  than  if  he  breathed  by  the 
mouth,  and  for  this  purpose  he  should  be  taught  how  to  breathe  regularly  before  any 
ether  is  introduced  into  the  inhaler.  At  first  its  vapor  should  be  mixed  with  air,  but  as 
soon  as  the  anaesthetic  action  begins  only  the  pure  ethereal  vapor  should  be  inhaled. 
(For  fuller  details  compare  Parkinson,  Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  April,  1885,  p.  406 ; 
ibid.,  Feb.  1889,  p.  154  ; Muller,  Med.  News,  April,  1885,  p.  374  ; Lovett,  Boston  Med.  and 
Surg.  Jour.,  Dec.  1888,  p.  548 ; Shrady,  Med.  Record,  xxxv.  204.)  Care  must  be  taken 
not  to  allow  the  contact  of  flame  with  the  ethereal  vapor. 

A mixture  of  one  part  of  alcohol,  two  parts  of  chloroform,  and  three  of  ether  has  been 
widely  used,  but  has  not  fulfilled  the  expectations  entertained  of  its  superiority,  which 
were  based  on  the  supposed  antagonism  of  alcohol  and  ether  to  chloroform.  It  has 
occasioned  death,  and  apparently  in  the  same  manner  as  undiluted  chloroform  {Med. 
News,  1.  38). 

F,rom  an  experimental  study  of  arrested  breathing  under  ether,  Drs.  Martin  and  Hare 
{Med.  News,  liv.  236)  concluded  that  drawing  the  tongue  forward  by  the  tip  is  a very 
insufficient  mode  of  rendering  free  the  opening  of  the  larynx,  and  that  traction-pressure 
should  be  applied  to  the  dorsum  of  the  tongue  behind  the  anterior  half-arches  while  the 
head  is  extended  on  the  neck  at  an  angle  of  45°  and  the  horns  of  the  hyoid  bone  are 


JETHER  ACETIC  US. 


137 


thrust  forward.  This  manipulation  appears  not  to  apply  to  the  “ spasmodic  apnoea  ” which 
Dr.  Silk  describes  as  peculiar  to  the  first  stage  of  etherization  ( Lancet , Feb.  1889,  p. 
319),  but  to  that  which  he  denominates  “ paralytic  apnoea, ” due  to  paresis  of  the  larnyx 
itself  or  of  the  nerve-centres  controlling  it.  It  is  generally  gradual  in  its  approach. 
Evidently,  the  spasmodic  form  may  be  controlled  by  suspending  the  use  of  the  anaesthetic, 
and  both  forms  by  a dash  of  cold  water  or  by  the  evaporation  (Hare)  of  ether  from  the 
surface  of  the  abdomen. 

.Ether  Formicicus. — Byasson  made  experiments  with  formic  ether  compound  upon 
dogs,  rats,  and  guinea-pigs.  He  regarded  it  as  readily  undergoing  decomposition  into  alco- 
hol and  alkaline  formiates  through  the  alkali  of  the  blood.  When  inhaled,  it  lowers  the 
temperature  as  much  as  31°  C.,  induces  signs  of  asphyxia,  but  not  so  marked  as  those 
caused  by  chloroform,  and  causes  muscular  relaxation  and  anaesthesia.  The  effects  per- 
sist for  several  hours.  Hypodermic  injections  of  Gm.  1-2  in  guinea-pigs  and  rats,  and 
of  Gm.  4—6  in  dogs,  produce  a less  degree  of  asphyxia,  but  more  somnolence,  lower- 
ing of  temperature,  and  a diminution,  but  not  a complete  suppression,  of  sensiblility. 
In  man  6 or  8 Gm.  occasion  no  other  symptom  than  drowsiness.  The  urine  contains 
formic  acid. 

.Ether  Methylicus. — Being  gaseous  and  only  feebly  held  in  solution  by  alcohol, 
methylic  ether  is  more  readily  absorbed  than  this  liquid  into  the  blood.  Its  anaesthetic 
operation  is  somewhat  peculiar.  A pigeon  under  a bell-glass  filled  with  the  vapor  of 
methylic  ether,  or  made  to  inhale  it  from  a kind  of  respirator,  falls  into  a quiet  sleep  with- 
out agitation  or  convulsion.  Dr.  Bichardson,  experimenting  upon  himself,  observed  that 
there  was  no  preliminary  spasm  excited  by  it  in  the  larynx  or  elsewhere — no  rigidity, 
lividity,  or  other  change  of  color.  The  pulse  rose  to  96  ; the  anaesthesia  was  perfect,  and 
was  not  preceded  by  convulsion  or  followed  by  nausea.  In  some  further  experiments 
(upon  guinea-pigs)  the  anaesthesia  was  carried  as  far  as  possible,  and  the  respiration  ceased 
several  minutes  before  the  heart  stopped.  After  death  the  lungs  were  not  congested,  but 
the  pulmonary  veins  and  both  sides  of  the  heart  were  filled  with  fluid  blood,  which  was 
dark  on  the  left  side.  In  death  by  bichloride  of  methylene  the  blood  in  the  same  cavity 
is  light  red.  The  repletion  of  the  heart  contrasts  with  the  emptiness  of  its  cavities  in 
death  by  chloroform.  According  to  Bichardson,  it  is  a safe  anaesthetic,  yet  is  objection- 
able because  it  rapidly  volatilizes  from  its  solution,  and  its  odor  is  more  unpleasant  than 
that  of  ether,  chloroform,  or  bichloride  of  methylene. 

Methylal. — Dr.  B.  W.  Bichardson  originally  described  this  compound  as  anaesthetic 
and  narcotic,  and  suggested  that  it  might  be  used  with  alcohol  or  ether  to  relieve  colic , 
asthma , angina  pectoris , or  tetanus.  Mairet  and  Combermale  used  it  for  the  insane 
in  daily  doses  of  Gm.  1-8  (15  grs.  to  120  grs.),  but  it  was  efficient  only  in  the  later 
periods  of  the  acute  attack,  and  rapidly  created  tolerance.  They  found  it  inoperative 
in  mania  a pot u and  syphilitic  mania.  Lemoine  testified  to  the  same  effect  ( Ga.z.  Med. 
de  Paris , No.  18,  1887),  and  so  did  Kraft-Ebing,  who,  however,  thought  it  useful  in 
delirium  tremens  ( Centralhl.  f.  Ther.,  vi.  275)  ; but  since  the  latter  disease  nearly  always 
subsides  spontaneously,  if  not  aggravated  by  unwise  treatment,  and  as  the  doses  of  the 
medicine  used  by  the  last  named-reporter  (one  or  two  grains)  could  not  have  been  opera- 
tive, although  given  hypodermically,  the  claim  in  behalf  of  the  medicine  can  hardly  be 
sustained.  Personali  advised  it  for  neuralgic  and  other  pains  of  the  bowels.  Bichardson 
prescribed  methylal  as  follows:  R.  Methylal  £vj  ; Syr.  of  orange-flower  water  f^iv  ; dis- 
tilled water,  to  Tfvj.  S.  One  to  four  tablespoonfuls  in  a wineglassful  of  water.  Personali 
suggested  an  ointment  or  liniment  1 : 6 as  an  analgesic ; but  the  rapid  evaporation  of  the 
anodyne  ingredient  renders  this  an  ineligible  form. 

EITHER  ACETICUS,  TJ.  S,,  T>r F,  Cod ,,  F,  G. — Acetic  Ether. 

Naphtha  aceti. — Ethyl  acetate,  E.  ; Ether  acetique,  Acetate  d'ethyle,  Fr.  ; Essigdther, 
Essignaphtha,  G. ; Etere  acetico,  F.  It. 

Formula  C2H5C2H302.  Molecular  weight  87.8. 

Preparation. — Add  slowly  323  fluidounces  of  sulphuric  acid  to  321  fluidounces  of 
rectified  spirit ; cool,  add  40  ounces  of  sodium  acetate,  and  distil  45  fluidounces.  Digest 
the  distillate  three  days  with  6 ounces  of  well-dried  potassium  carbonate ; separate  the 
fluid ; distil  all  but  about  4 fluidounces.  Preserve  in  a well-closed  bottle  in  a cool 
place. — Br. 

Acetic  ether  is  also  prepared  on  a large  scale  by  causing  a mixture  of  equal  volumes 
of  96  per  cent,  alcohol  and  94  per  cent,  acetic  acid  to  flow  into  a mixture  of  15  parts  of 


138 


JETHER  ACETIC  US. 


sulphuric  acid  and  6 parts  of  alcohol  contained  in  a retort  and  heated  to  130°-135°  C. 
(266°-275°  F.),  and  subsequently  purifying  the  distillate  by  appropriate  means,  as 
stated  below.  Hager  recommends  the  following  plan,  which  we  have  tried  with  marked 
success ; it  is  easily  followed,  and  admirably  adapted  to  the  manufacture  of  acetic  ether 
in  small  lots:  63  parts  by  weight  of  alcohol  (U.  S.  Ph.  spec.  grav.  0.820)  are  carefully 
mixed  with  109  parts  by  weight  of  94  per  cent,  sulphuric  acid,  and  the  mixture  set  aside 
for  a day  or  two  in  a well-closed  flask,  so  that  ethyl-sulphuric  acid  may  be  formed  ; 
having  prepared  anhydrous  sodium  acetate  by  heating  at  130°  C.  (266°  F.)  to  constant 
weight,  82  parts  of  the  powdered  acetate  are  put  into  a retort  and  the  acid  alcohol 
mixture  carefully  added.  The  retort  is  heated  in  a water-bath,  and  the  vapors  are  con- 
densed in  a well-cooled  receiver  as  long  as  reaction  continues  brisk  : the  final  distillate  is 
collected  separately,  as  it  is  apt  to  contain  more  acetic  acid.  46  parts  of  absolute  alcohol 
with  98  parts  of  absolute  sulphuric  acid  theoretically  will  suffice  for  82  parts  of  anhy- 
drous sodium  acetate,  but  in  practice  a slightly  increased  amount  has  been  found  advan- 
tageous. 

Crude  acetic  ether  usually  contains  acetic  acid,  alcohol,  and  water,  and  to  remove  these 
it  is  first  well  shaken  with  one-third  of  its  volume  of  an  aqueous  solution  containing  20 
per  cent,  sodium  chloride  and  2 per  cent,  sodium  carbonate  ; caustic  alkalies  or  milk  of 
lime  are  inadmissible.  The  washing  is  repeated  two  or  three  times,  and  the  ether  is 
then  freed  from  water  by  shaking  with  freshly  ignited  potassium  carbonate,  and  is  finally 
distilled  ; calcium  chloride  is  not  suitable  for  dehydration,  as  it  is  apt  to  combine  chemi- 
cally with  the  acetic  ether. 

Some  years  ago  a method  was  suggested  for  preparing  acetic  ether  by  passing  carbon 
dioxide  into  an  alcoholic  solution  of  potassium  acetate : while,  theoretically,  a simple 
and  perfect  plan,  it  has  been  found  impracticable,  owing  to  the  sparing  solubility  of 
potassium  acetate  in  absolute  alcohol,  which  latter  is  necessary  to  ensure  a good  yield  of 
ether  and  perfect  precipitation  of  the  newly-formed  potassium  carbonate. 

In  the  above  manipulations  ethyl-sulphuric  acid  is  first  formed  (see  page  129),  1 mole- 
cule of  which  reacts  with  1 molecule  of  sodium  acetate,  producing  acid  sodium  sulphate 
and  acetic  ether,  according  to  the  equation  C2H5HS04  + NaC2H302  = NaIIS04  + C2H5C2- 
H302,  (acetic  ether.) 

The  weights  of  the  different  ingredients  given  in  the  formula  of  the  British  Pharmaco- 
poeia are  very  nearly  the  theoretical  proportions.  An  excess  of  sodium  acetate  would 
cause  the  distillate  to  be  contaminated  with  free  acetic  acid,  while  an  excess  of  sulphuric 
acid  and  alcohol  would  result  in  the  production  of  ethyl  oxide  (ether).  Any  other 
acetate  in  an  equivalent  proportion  may  be  substituted  for  the  sodium  acetate. 

In  acetic  ether  the  basylous  H of  acetic  acid  is  replaced  by  the  basylous  radical  C2H5, 
forming  a compound  having  the  above  formula. 

Properties  and  Tests.— -Acetic  ether  is  a colorless,  limpid,  volatile  liquid  having 
an  agreeable,  refreshing,  ethereal  and  somewhat  acetous  odor  and  taste.  The  pure  ether 
has  a density  of  0.9104  at  0°  C.  (Kopp),  and  of  0.8981  at  15°  C.  (Mendelejeff ; water  at 
4°  C.)  ; the  densities  given  by  the  Pharmacopoeias  are : 0.893  to  0.895  at  15°  C.  (59° 
F.)  ( U.  S .),  0.900  to  0.904  (P.  G .),  and  0.900  (i?r.).  The  density  is  no  evidence  of  purity, 
since  acetic  ether  dissolves  ether,  alcohol,  and  chloroform  in  all  proportions,  and  at  15° 
C.  one-twenty-fourth  of  its  volume  of  water.  It  is  also  soluble  in  water,  requiring  of 
that  menstruum,  at  0°  C.,  8 volumes,  and  at  15°  C.  9 volumes,  or  10  parts  by  weight 
(Clark),  about  10  parts,  Br .,  about  8 parts,  U.  S.  It  boils  between  74°  and  76°  C. 
(165°  and  168.8°  F.),  P.  G.,  at  74.5°  C.  (166°  F.),  Br .,  at  about  76°  C.,  U.  S.  It  is 
very  inflammable,  though  less  so  than  ether,  and  burns  with  a yellowish-white  flame  and 
the  odor  of  acetic-acid  vapors.  It  has  a neutral  reaction  to  test-paper,  but  if  kept  in 
contact  with  the  air,  and  particularly  in  the  presence  of  water,  free  acetic  acid  is  formed. 
Solutions  of  potassa,  soda,  and  other  oxides  decompose  it  gradually  or  rapidly,  if  heated, 
into  acetic  acid  and  alcohol ; but  metallic  sodium  does  not  act  upon  acetic  ether  in  the 
cold,  except  in  the  presence  of  water  or  alcohol  (Wanklyn  ; Ladenburg).  It  dissolves  a 
little  phosphorus  and  sulphur,  and  is  a good  solvent  for  volatile  and  fixed  oils,  many 
resins,  cantharidin,  and  other  organic  compounds. 

The  purity  of  acetic  ether  is  determined  by  its  neutral  reaction,  its  specific  gravity,  its 
volatility  without  residue,  and  its  behavior  to  water:  when  10  Cc.  of  it  are  agitated 
with  an  equal  volume  of  water  in  a graduated  tube,  the  ethereal  layer,  after  its  separa- 
tion, should  not  measure  less  than  9 Cc.  If  acetic  ether  is  allowed  to  flow  carefully 
upon  an  equal  volume  of  concentrated  sulphuric  acid,  no  dark  color  should  be  formed 
at  the  line  of  contact  of  the  two  liquids.  U.  S.:  P.  G. 


JSTHYL  EXT  BICHL  ORIB  IDT. 


139 


Action  and  Uses. — According  to  Dr.  II.  C.  Wood,  in  pigeons  and  rabbits  acetic 
ether  produces  unconsciousness,  without  as  much  previous  struggling  as  when  sulphuric 
ether  is  used,  and  lias  the  advantage  over  that  compound  of  being  less  inflammable.  On 
the  other  hand,  its  volatility  is  less.  On  accounts  of  its  pungency  and  agreeable  odor  and 
its  stimulant  and  antispasmodic  qualities  it  is  used  for  several  of  the  minor  purposes  of 
sulphuric  ether,  and  especially  to  stimulate  the  nasal  passages  in  cases  of  syncope  and  nerv- 
ous agitation.  Its  vapor  may  also  be  inhaled  under  similar  circumstances,  and  to  allay 
laryngeal  and  bronchial  irritation  and  nervous  cough.  It  may  be  given  internally  for  the 
relief  of  colic  and  flatulence  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  2 (npxxx),  or  more,  properly  diluted. 
Externally,  it  may  be  applied  in  all  the  cases  in  which  sulphuric  ether  is  appropriate. 

gETHYLENI  BICHLORIDUM.— Ethylene  Bichloride. 

jEthylenuni  chloratum.  Elaylum  chloratum , Liquor  Hollandicu s. — Ethrne  chloride , 
Dutch  Liquid , E.  ; Liqueur  des  Hollandais , Huile  du  gas  olefiant , F. ; jEthylenchlorid , 
Elaylchlorid , Gr. 

Formula  C2H4C12  or  CH2C1.CH2C1.  Molecular  weight  98.68. 

Preparation. — Olefiant  gas  and  Dutch  liquid  were  discovered  by  Dieman,  Troost- 
wyk,  Bondt,  and  Lauwernburgh  (1795).  The  latter  is  produced  on  bringing  the  former 
in  contact  with  chlorine  gas.  1 part  of  strong  alcohol  is  mixed  with  3 or  4 parts  of  sul- 
phuric acid  and  sufficient  sand  to  form  a thick  mixture,  which  is  heated,  and  the  gas 
passed  successively  through  sulphuric  acid,  solution  of  potassa,  and  sulphuric  acid, 
whereby  it  is  deprived  of  alcohol,  ether,  and  sulphur  and  carbon  dioxides.  The  gas 
thus  purified  is  conducted  into  a retort  containing  a mixture  of  2 parts  of  manganese 
dioxide,  3 of  common  salt,  4 of  water,  and  5 of  sulphuric  acid.  The  retort  is  at  first 
very  moderately  warmed,  and  afterward  heated  and  the  liquid  distils.  The  distillate  is 
washed  with  water  and  rectified  over  calcium  chloride. 

Properties. — It  is  a colorless,  thin,  oily  liquid,  having  an  ethereal  odor  resembling 
that  of  chloroform,  and  a sweetish  ethereal  taste;  it  has  the  specific  gravity  1.27  at  0° 
C.  (32°  F.)  or  1.253  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  boils  at  85°  C.  (185°  F.),  is  sparingly  soluble  in 
water  and  freely  soluble  in  alcohol  and  ether.  It  is  inflammable,  and  burns  with  a yel- 
lowish flame  having  a green  border,  and  giving  off  vapors  containing  hydrochloric  acid. 
When  agitated  with  water  the  latter  does  not  acquire  an  acid  reaction  to  litmus-paper, 
and  when  agitated  with  sulphuric  acid  the  mixture  is  not  blackened.  On  being  mixed 
with  alcoholic  solution  of  potassa,  water  and  potassium  chloride  are  formed,  and  gaseous 
chlorethyline , CH2CHC1,  is  given  off  at  a moderate  temperature  ; this  gas  condenses  at 
- 18°  C.  (—  .4°  F.). 

Allied  Compounds. — By  the  action  of  chlorine  upon  Dutch  liquid  a number  of  chlorinated 
compounds  may  be  obtained,  which  are  isomeric  with  the  chlorinated  compounds  produced 
under  similar  circumstances  from  ethyl  chloride , chlorethane , or,  as  it  is  frequently  termed,  muri- 
atic ( hydrochloric ) ether 

Ethyl  Chloride,  C2II5C1  or  CII3.CII2C1  (molecular  weight  64.4),  is  obtained  by  passing  dry 
hydrochloric  acid  gas  into  cold  strong  alcohol,  distilling  at  a very  moderate  heat,  washing  the 
distillate  with  water  and  a weak  alkaline  solution,  and  rectifying.  It  is  a thin,  colorless,  inflam- 
mable liquid,  having  an  ethereal  odor  and  a sweetish  aromatic  afterward  somewhat  alliaceous 
taste.  It  dissolves  in  about  50  parts  of  water,  boils  at  12.5°  C.  (53.6°  F.),  and  at  0°  C.  (32°  F.) 
has  the  density  0.9214.  If  chlorine,  not  in  excess,  acts  upon  it, 

Moxochlorinated  Hydrochloric  Ether  ( ethylidene  chloride , ethydene  chloride ),  C2II4C12  or 
CII3.CTIC12,  is  produced.  It  is  isomeric  with  ethylene  bichloride,  which  it  resembles  in  odor, 
but  its  density  is  only  1.198  ; it  boils  at  57.5°  C.  (135.5°  F.),  is  decomposed  by  strong  sulphuric 
acid,  and  when  heated  with  alcoholic  solution  of  potassa  distils  almost  without  change. 

On  continuing  the  action  of  chlorine,  the  following  isomeric  compounds  are  obtained  from 

Ethyl  chloride.  Ethylene  chloride 

C2H.,C13.  Sp.  gr.  1.372 ; boiling-point  75°  C.  (167°  F.).  Sp.  gr.  1.442  ; boiling-point  115°  C.  (239°  F.). 

C2H2C14.  “ 1.530;  “ “ 127.5°  C.  (261.5°  F.).  “ 1.576;  “ “ 147°  C.  (296.6°  F.). 

C2HC15.  “ 1.644;  “ “ 158°  C.  (316.4°  F.).  “ 1.663;  “ “ 158°  C.  (316.4°  F.). 

C2C16.  Prisms  ; fuse  at  160°  C.  (320°  F.),  boil  at  182°  C.  (360°  I'.) ; odor  aromatic,  camphoraceous. 

Action  and  Uses. — When  bichloride  of  ethylene  was  tested  by  Simpson,  he  found 

that  although  it  was  capable  of  producing  anaesthesia  without  excitement  of  the  pulse 
or  subsequent  headache,  yet  it  caused  so  great  irritation  of  the  throat  that  few  persons 
could  persevere  in  breathing  it  long  enough  to  induce  the  anaesthetic  state.  Other  experi- 
menters have  reached  the  same  conclusions,  but  it  is  generally  agreed  that  the  liquid 
does  not  tend  to  induce  the  dangerous  collapse  which  constitutes  the  chief  objection  to 
chloroform.  This  conclusion  has  been  fully  sustained  by  the  experiments  of  Dr, 


140 


jETHYLENI  bichloridum. 


Reichert  ( Phila . Med.  Times , xi.  492),  which  prove  that  death  from  this  agent  invariably 
takes  place  from  failure  of  the  respiration,  and  not  from  any  direct  action  upon  the 
heart.  In  regard  to  its  administration,  Dr.  Reichert  insists  that  while  it  does  possess 
irritant  properties,  and  does  cause  distress  when  first  inhaled,  the  distress  is  not  much, 
if  any,  worse  than  that  caused  by  the  inhalation  of  ether.  As  a local  anaesthetic  this 
preparation  has  been  applied  to  the  seat  of  pain  in  neuralgia  and  other  limited  painful 
parts,  such  as  exist  in  cancer , etc.  The  dose  required  to  produce  anaesthesia  is  about  the 
same  as  that  of  chloroform. 

Chloride  of  ethyl  has  been  used  to  congeal  tissues,  to  render  painless  certain  minor 
operations,  and  relieve  local  pains ; e.  g.  the  opening  of  abscesses , the  curetting  of  lupoid 
tumors , the  extraction  of  teeth , the  excision  of  small  tumors , the  relief  of  neuralgia , etc. 
For  such  uses  the  liquid  is  contained  in  a small  bulb  furnished  with  a tube  having  a 
capillary  opening.  The  warmth  of  the  hand  suffices  to  cause  a fine  jet  of  the  liquid 
which  rapidly  congeals  the  skin  upon  which  it  falls.  Drs.  Wood  and  Cerna  showed  by 
experiments  on  animals  that  it  has  a directly  depressing  action  upon  the  heart ; and  it 
has  occasioned  threatening  effects  when  accidentally  inhaled  ( Tlierap . Gaz.,  xvii.  251). 
Its  volatility  and  inflammability  render  its  use  near  an  open  flame  dangerous.  Internally 
it  has  been  given  in  the  dose  of  Grin.  0.60—2.00  (gtt.  x-xxx)  in  sweetened  water  or  in  a 
little  wine  or  spirit  and  water. 

E thy  dene  chloride  was  employed  by  a committee  of  the  British  Medical  Association  in 
six  experiments.  Its  odor  is  agreeable,  it  produces  rapid  narcosis  without  much  previous 
excitement,  and  its  use  is  rarely  followed  by  nausea  and  vomiting.  It  appears  to  render 
the  pulse  more,  and  then  less,  frequent.  In  from  eight  to  twelve  minutes  complete 
anaesthesia  and  muscular  relaxation  are  produced,  the  respiration  going  on  regularly,  but 
slowly,  the  pulse  being  full  and  slow.  There  is  neither  pallor  nor  blueness  of  the  face. 
Such  results  were  also  obtained  by  Bird  ( Times  and  Gaz.,  Jan.  1879,  p.  62)  in  patients 
operated  upon  for  disease8  of  the  eye.  The  phenomena  were  those  occasioned  by  a 
strong  stimulant  of  the  heart’s  action,  and  the  reporter’s  only  apprehension  was  lest,  “if 
it  always  proved  such  a stimulant,”  the  reaction  might  be  excessive.  But  Ringer 
declares,  without  qualification,  that  “ethydene  dichloride  affects  the  ventricle  just  like* 
chloroform  ” ( Practitioner , xxvii.  13).  If  this  declaration  refers  to  degree  as  well  as  to 
kind,  it  is  discordant  with  the  statements  just  made,  and  also  with  the  latest  result 
obtained  by  the  committee  of  the  British  Association,  among  which  the  following  are 
included:  vomiting  is  occassioned  by  ethydene  as  well  as  by  chloroform,  but  is  more 
persistent  after  chloroform  ; 'with  both  the  pulse  falls  as  the  respirations  increase,  but 
with  chloroform  the  effect  is  more  frequent  and  more  marked,  and  chloroform  retards  the 
heart-beats  more,  and  oftener  produces  dicrotism  ; chloroform  and  ethydene  reduce  the 
blood-pressure  in  animals,  but  chloroform  more  rapidly,  irregularly,  and  to  a greater 
degree ; in  no  single  experiment  with  ethydene  was  there  an  absolute  cessation  of  the 
heart’s  action  or  of  respiration  ; as  regards  comparative  danger  to  life,  chloroform  stands 
first,  and  then  ethydene,  and  lastly  ether  (Amer.  Jour,  of  Med.  Sci.,  April,  1881,  p.  555). 
The  final  judgment  of  the  same  committee  is,  that  ethydene  is  free  from  the  disadvan- 
tages of  ether  and  the  dangers  of  chloroform.  The  use  of  this  anassthetic  by  Macphail 
in  minor  surgical  operations  led  him  to  analogous  conclusions  ( Edinb . Med.  Jour.,  xxxv. 
220). 

Clinical  experience  with  ethydene  has  quite  reversed  the  judgment  concerning  it  based 
almost  exclusively  upon  physiological  experiments.  Reichert  finds  a record  of  about 
3000  administrations  with  a list  of  3 deaths,  and  4 cases  in  which  the  most  alarming 
symptoms  ensued.  In  all  of  these  cases,  except  one  of  which  no  details  are  given,  death 
took  place  by  failure  of  the  heart.  He  also  states  that  ethydene  was  abandoned  by  Snow 
on  account  of  its  danger,  and  that  it  is  probably  more  dangerous  than  chloroform,  notwith- 
standing the  views  entertained  of  its  physiological  action  (Med.  News , xl.  206).  As 
lately  as  1883  a death  from  it  occurred  in  England  during  a very  slight  surgical  opera- 
tion (Phila.  Med.  Times,  xiii.  420).  It  is  administered  by  pouring  the  liquid  on  a piece 
of  lint  placed  in  a tumbler  which  is  held  over  the  mouth  and  nose,  or  by  “ Junker’s 
apparatus,”  employed  for  inhaling  chloroform.  From  Gm.  4-30  (f^j— f^j)  has  been 
employed  in  several  operations. 


.ETHYL  BROMIDE M. 


141 


iETHYL  BROMIDUM— Ethyl  Bromide. 

JEther  bromatus , P.  G.  ; JEther  hydrobromicus. — Monobromo  ethane , Hydrobromic  ether , 
E. ; Bromine  d’ethyle , Ether  hydrobromique  ( bromhydriqice ),  Fr.;  jEthylbromid . Bromdthyl, 
Bi'omwasserstojf either,  G. 

Formula  C2H5Br.  Molecular  weight  108.70. 

Preparation. — :Serullas  (1827),  the  discoverer  of  this  ether,  recommended  its  prepa- 
ration by  the  action  of  bromine  upon  alcohol  in  the  presence  of  phosphorus.  Personne 
(1861)  replaced  the  latter  by  amorphous  phosphorus.  The  German  Pharmacopoeia  gives 
the  following  directions  for  its  manufacture  : To  a well-cooled  mixture  of  12  parts  of  sul- 
phuric acid  and  7 parts  of  alcohol  (spec.  grav.  0.816),  12  parts  of  potassium  bromide  in 
powder  form  are  gradually  added,  and  the  mixture  then  distilled  on  a sand-bath  ; the 
distillate  is  well  washed  by  agitation,  first  with  a 5 per  cent,  solution  of  potassium  car- 
bonate, and  then  three  or  four  times  with  an  equal  volume  of  water ; finally,  it  is  dehy- 
rated  with  calcium  chloride  and  redistilled  on  a water-bath.  This  process  involves  a 
double  reaction  : first,  the  formation  of  ethylsulphuric  acid,  C2H5OH  -f  H2S04  = C2H5HS04 
4-  H.,0 ; and  secondly,  the  formation  of  ethyl  bromide,  C.2H3HS04  -f  KBr  = C2H5Br  -f 
KHS04. 

Properties. — Ethyl  bromide  is  a colorless,  highly  refractive,  very  volatile  liquid 
of  a strong  ethereal  odor  and  a sweetish  and  warm  taste.  It  has  the  density  1.445—1.450 
at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  boils  at  38°— 40°  C.  (100.4°-104°  F.),  burns  with  some  difficulty  with 
a green,  non-sooty  flame,  is  sparingly  soluble  in  water,  and  dissolves  in  all  proportions  in 
alcohol  and  ether. 

It  has  a neutral  reaction,  and  if  shaken  with  an  equal  volume  of  pure  concentrated 
sulphuric  acid,  no  color  should  be  produced  after  twenty-four  hours  (absence  of  ethylene 
and  amyl  compounds). 

Ethyl  bromide  is  easily  decomposed  by  light  and  air,  turning  brown,  and  then  contain- 
ing hydrobromic  acid  and  free  bromine.  The  presence  of  1 per  cent,  of  alcohol  or  3 per 
cent,  of  ether  renders  the  liquid  more  stable. 

This  preparation  should  not  be  confounded  with  ethylene  bromide , C2H4Br2,  a faintly 
brown-colored  liquid,  with  chloroform-like  odor  and  a sweet  taste,  followed  by  a burning 
sensation.  Its  spec.  grav.  at  21°  C.  (69.8°  F.)  is  2.163,  and  boiling-point  at  131°  C. 
(267.8°  F.) ; at  0°  C.  (32°  F.)  it  solidifies  to  a snow-white  crystalline  mass.  When 
inhaled,  marked  poisonous  effects  have  been  produced.  Ethylene  bromide  has  been  used 
successfully  for  epilepsy. 

Action. — The  taste  of  this  liquid  is  rather  sweet  and  pleasant,  but  it  is  irritating  to 
mucous  surfaces.  Internally,  in  doses  of  from  5 to  30  drops,  well  diluted,  it  produces 
only  a slight  drowsiness,  and,  inhaled,  it  is  represented  as  “ the  most  agreeable  and  rapid 
anaesthetic  yet  brought  before  the  medical  profession.”  Similar  virtues  were  attributed 
it  by  Dr.  Levis,  to  whom  its  vogue  as  a surgical  anaesthetic  was  chiefly  due.  According 
to  Turnbull,  its  advantages  are  a rapid  elimination  by  the  lungs  and  an  “ increase  of  pulse 
and  respiration.”  In  1880  he  pronounced  it  safe  when  used  with  care,  claiming  that  the 
heart  and  respiration  are  but  slightly  affected  by  it  unless  it  is  employed  in  excessive  quan- 
tities, and  that  it  is  rapidly  eliminated  by  the  kidneys,  as  well  as  by  the  lungs  ; he  dwelt 
upon  the  advantage  due  to  its  agreeable  odor,  its  non-inflammability,  its  slight  tendency 
to  cause  vomiting  or  headache,  salivation,  or  bronchial  flux,  as  compared  with  chloroform 
or  ether,  and  noted  the  rapidity  with  which  its  effects  pass  off  (Trans.  Amer.  Med.  Assoc., 
xxxi.  261).  It  is  true  that  some  surgeons,  like  Prof.  Agnew,  found  it  even  more  liable 
than  chloroform  to  cause  vomiting  ( Phila . Med.  Times , x.  372).  This  tendency  was  also 
noted  by  Terillon.  Describing  its  anaesthetic  properties,  he  says  that  “ it  cases  relaxa- 
tion rapidly,  without  asphyxia  and  without  excitement,  if  largely  administered  from  the 
first.  During  the  anaesthetic  stage,  unlike  chloroform,  it  causes  suffusion  of  the  face  and 
neck,  frequency  of  the  pulse,  and  dilatation  of  the  pupils;  consciousness  returns 
promptly.  On  the  whole,  although  its  seems  to  require  less  careful  supervision  than 
chloroform,  yet  it  certainly  ought  not  to  be  used  by  unskilful  hands  ” (Bull,  de  Therap., 
xcviii.  402).  ' Yet  Terillon  expressly  states  that  he  witnessed  no  tendency  to  suspension 
of  the  heart’s  action,  and  only  apprehended  danger  from  respiratory  embarrassment. 
Some  reporters  have  declared  that  its  action  upon  the  circulation  is  similar  to  that  of 
ether,  and  that  it  causes  increased  frequency  and  strength  of  the  pulse.  One  assures  us 
that  no  greater  toxic  effects  are  produced  upon  the  system  than  would  result  from  the 
administration  of  ether  or  alcohol  (Med.  Record xviii.  67).  The  frequency  of  the  pulse 
under  its  use  has  also  been  pointed  out  by  Reeve  (Med.  News , xlii.  317).  Getz  found 


142 


jETHYL  bromidum. 


it  less  efficient  and  more  disturbing  than  chloroform  in  ordinary  obstetrical  practice,  and 
in  prolonged  operations  not  so  good  as  ether  (Jour.  Amer.  Med.  Assoc.,  v.  401).  The 
garlicky  odor  it  gives  to  the  breath  of  the  patient,  and  even  to  the  infant  during  delivery, 
is  objectionable. 

Deplorable  experience  has  shown  how  unreliable  are  all  such  judgments.  Several 
cases  of  death  occurred  under  the  administration  of  this  agent  so  much  lauded  for  its 
superior  safety,  and  many  other  cases  in  which  death  was  certainly  imminent.  (Compare 
Therap.  Monatsh .,  iii.  385,  390;  Lancet , Mar.  1890,  p.  717  ; Sept.  1890,  p.  631  ; Med. 
Record , xxxviii.  412).  In  the  fatal  cases  the  result  was  usually  due  to  syncope,  but  in 
in  one  of  them  did  not  take  place  for  several  days,  and  then  by  exhaustion  from  vomiting. 
In  cases  that  did  not  terminate  fatally  the  phenomena  were  usually  those  of  cardiac 
syncope  or  obstruction.  In  one  instance  pleasant  intoxication,  excitement,  and  spasm 
were  followed  by  sleep,  and  then  by  a sudden  cessation  of  the  pulse  (Med  Record,  xvii. 
554).  In  another  the  pulse  suddenly  failed,  the  face  grew  cyanotic,  the  respiratory 
movements  imperceptible,  the  eyes  upturned  and  fixed,  the  jaws  locked,  and  the  whole 
body  stiffened  (Philo t.  Med.  Times , x.  430)  In  a third  case  the  head  was  jerked  back  and 
spasms  affected  all  the  muscles,  the  breathing  was  rapid,  and  the  pulse  small  (Med. 
Record,  xvii.  469).  In  a fourth  case,  several  hours  after  the  extraction  of  teeth  the 
patient  turned  deathly  pale,  vomited,  and  had  severe  headache  with  noises  in  the  ears 
Therap.  Monatsh  eft.,  Dec.  1888,  p.  556). 

It  appears  probable  that  bromide  of  ethyl  may  be  dangerous  in  two  ways  : first,  as  a 
compound,  and  then  by  its  decomposition  in  the  body.  In  the  former  of  these  modes  of 
action  it  resembles  chloroform,  and  destroys  life  by  arresting  the  heart.  The  possibility 
of  the  latter  operation  has  been  suggested  by  Dr.  Squibb  ( Trans.  Amer.  Med.  Assoc., 
xxxi.  285),  who  pointed  out  that  the  danger  from  anaesthetics  is  in  proportion  to  the 
noxiousness  of  their  radicals.  Those  which  are  the  most  readily  tolerated  are  so  in  pro- 
portion to  the  simplicity  and  innocuousness  of  the  elements  of  which  they  are  composed. 
Bromine  is  an  irritant  poison,  and  bromide  of  ethyl  is  very  easily  decomposed,  and  its  73 
per  cent,  of  bromine,  an  active  irritant,  is  disseminated  through  the  system.  According  to 
Squibb,  chloroform,  although  it  contains  89  per  cent,  of  chlorine,  does  not  produce  as 
toxic  effects  as  ethyl  bromide,  simply  because  2 atoms  of  chlorine  are  not  as  poisonous 
as  1 atom  of  bromine.  The  danger  from  either  anaesthetic  is  by  no  means  passed  when 
consciousness  returns  ; the  chlorine  in  the  one  case  and  the  bromine  in  the  other  remains 
behind,  and  may  still  induce  grave  and  even  fatal  effects.  In  some  cases  the  remote  phe 
nomena  are  disnctly  those  of  irritant  poison.  In  corroboration  of  the  last  statement  may 
be  quoted  Ileichert’s  reference  to  Nunnelly’s  experiments  with  ethylene  bibromide  and 
ethyl  iodide,  in  which  the  animals  appeared  perfectly  well  after  the  experiments,  but  some 
hours  later  perished  from  blood-poisoning  (Amer.  Jour,  of  Med.  Sci.,  July,  1881,  p.  556; 
Falk,  Therap.  Monatsch .,  iv.  463). 

Uses. — When  first  introduced,  this  anaesthetic  was  cordially  welcomed  by  many  sur- 
geons as  being  more  agreeable  and  prompt  than  ether  and  less  dangerous  than  chloro- 
form ; and  one  of  its  leading  but  still  cautious  advocates  declared  that  his  “ continued 
experience  with  it  in  the  surgery  of  a large  general  hospital  and  in  private  practice 
impressed  him  with  the  conviction  that  it  is  the  best  anaesthetic  known  to  the  profession  ” 
(Phila.  Med.  Times,  x.  247).  The  disasters  that  followed  soon  after  this  and  similar 
declarations  seem  to  have  discouraged  its  advocates  and  led  to  its  disuse  in  general  sur- 
gery. Even  in  parturition , for  which  it  was  declared  peculiarly  adapted,  it  did  not  find 
acceptance,  although  it  continued  to  be  used  by  some  accoucheurs  (Med.  News , xlii.  329 ; 
Amer.  Jour.  Obstetr.,  June,  1885)  ; but  in  epilepsy,  hysteria , and  angina  pectoris,  for  which 
it  at  first  was  employed,  it  has  almost  ceased  to  be  recommended  as  a remedy.  In  neur- 
algic headache  it  has  the  same  advantages  as  other  anaesthetics,  with  the  special  dis- 
qualifications that  have  been  named.  As  a local  anaesthetic,  applied  with  a hand-ato- 
mizer, it  was  used  by  Terillon  and  others  in  operations  for  opening  abscesses,  extraction  of 
teeth,  removing  vegetations,  for  circumcision , fistula  and  forcible  dilatation  of  the  anus,  flexion 
of  ankylosed  joints,  etc.  This  method  appears  to  be  preferable  to  inhalation  in  such 
cases. 

Bromide  of  ethyl  may  be  administered  in  the  same  manner  as  sulphuric  ether  and 
chloroform.  Those  most  active  in  promoting  its  use  urged  that  unless  the  first  portions 
“ were  crowded  on  the  patient  ” it  was  not  apt  to  act  promptly  ; one  also  said,  u I prefer 
always  to  make  a rapid  and  decided  impression,  with  the  lint  and  napkin  held  closely 
over  the  nose  and  mouth  of  the  patient.”  After  it  became  known  that  its  mode  of 
action,  and  therefore  its  dangers,  are  of  the  same  kind  as  those  of  chloroform,  such 


jETHYL  iodidum. 


143 

advice  could  hardly  have  been  given.  It  has  been  proposed  to  induce  the  first  stage  of 
anaesthesia  by  means  of  this  agent,  and  then  to  maintain  its  effects  by  means  of  ether  or 
chloroform.  In  this  manner,  at  least,  the  dangers  of  its  prolonged  inhalation  may  be 
greatly  reduced.  The  quantity  used  has  varied  from  1 fluidrachin  in  short  and  trivial 
operations  to  11  fluidrachms  in  an  operation  of  forty  minutes’  duration.  The  same  precau- 
tions should  be  used  as  in  the  case  of  other  anaesthetics  relating  to  repletion  of  the  stomach, 
the  position  of  the  patient,  his  breathing  deeply,  and  preventing  pressure  on  his  neck  or 
chest.  Quite  as  important,  if  not  more  so,  is  it  that  the  surgeon  should  be  certified  by 
a competent  physician  that  the  patient  is  not  affected  with  any  organic  disease  tending 
to  increase  his  risk.  It  has  happened  that,  for  want  of  such  a precaution,  patients  have 
been  allowed  to  take  this  agent  or  chloroform  while  laboring  under  disease  of  the  brain 
or  lungs  or  a convulsive  disorder.  (Compare  Medical  News,  lxi.  667.)  In  using  it  to  pro- 
duce a local  anaesthesia  the  orifice  of  the  atomizer  should  be  large  and  not  nearer  than 
about  three  inches  from  the  skin,  and  the  spray  should  not  be  very  fine.  About  three 
minutes  are  required  to  produce  congelation. 

Bromide  of  Ethylene  is  stated  by  Bonome  and  Mazza  to  produce  narcotic  and  anaes- 
thetic effects,  but  very  slowly,  whether  inhaled  or  given  hypodermically.  Others  deny 
that  it  possesses  anaesthetic  powers. 

METHYL.  IODIDUM —Ethyl  Iodide. 

JEther  hydriodicus,  Hydriodic  ether , E.  ; lodure  d'ethyle,  Ether  hydriodique , Fr.  ; Jod- 
dthyl,  Jodwasserstofjf 'cither , G. 

Formula  C2H5I.  Molecular  weight  155.47. 

Preparation. — This  compound  was  prepared  by  its  discoverer,  Gay-Lussac  (1815), 
by  distilling  a mixture  of  absolute  alcohol  and  concentrated  hydriodic  acid,  and  sepa- 
rating the  ether  from  the  distillate  by  means  of  water.  Much  better  results  are  obtained 
by  distilling  a mixture  of  alcohol,  phosphorus,  and  iodine,  as  proposed  by  Serullas  (1827)  ; 
and  the  substitution  of  amorphous  for  ordinary  phosphorus,  first  used  by  Personne  (1861), 
affords  still  greater  advantages.  Reith  and  Beilstein  (1863)  obtained  the  best  results  by 
macerating  for  twenty-four  hours  a mixture  of  10  parts  of  amorphous  phosphorus,  50  parts 
of  alcohol,  specific  gravity  0.83,  and  1 00  parts  of  iodine,  the  latter  added  in  small  quantities ; 
the  mixture  is  then  distilled,  the  distillate  decolorized  by  a little  solution  of  soda,  and  freed 
from  water  by  rectification  over  calcium  chloride.  The  residue  in  the  retort  from  the 
first  distillation  consists  of  phosphoric  acid,  the  reaction  occurring  according  to  the  fol- 
lowing equation  : 5I2  + P2  4-  10C2H6O  yields  10C2H5I  -(-  2H3PO4  -f  2H20. 

Properties. — Ethyl  iodide  is  a colorless,  non-inflammable  liquid  having  a peculiar 
penetrating  odor.  It  is  freely  soluble  in  alcohol,  nearly  insoluble  in  water,  does  not  react 
upon  litmus,  boils  near  72°  0.  (161.6°  F.)j  and  has  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  the  specific  grav- 
ity 1.93.  Exposed  to  air  and  light,  it  liberates  iodine,  and  is  gradually  colored  red  and 
brown  ; the  presence  of  metallic  mercury,  or  preferably  silver,  prevents  the  coloration, 
but  not  the  decomposition.  Iodine  is  also  liberated  by  chlorine  gas,  nitric  acid,  and 
strong  sulphuric  acid. 

Action  and  Uses. — More  than  forty  years  ago  (1849)  Nunnelly  reported  as  a result 
of  experiment  that  three  out  of  four  animals  were  rendered  insensible  by  this  preparation, 
and  that  all  of  them  died.  He  even  declared  that,  although  the  animals  were  not  made 
insensible,  the  effect  of  the  inhalation  was  generally  fatal.  For  these  reasons,  probably, 
the  use  of  the  compound  was  for  a long  time  suspended,  and,  as  it  now  appears,  unneces- 
sarily. Iodide  of  ethyl  has  been  used  by  inhalation  to  bring  the  system  speedly  under 
the  influence  of  iodine,  and  especially  in  chronic  bronchitis  and  pulmonary  phthisis.  It 
doubtless  contributes  to  diminish  the  bronchial  secretions,  though,  according  to  some,  it 
increases  them.  But  its  more  demonstrable  and  useful  property  consists  in  its  rendering 
the  act  of  breathing  deeper  and  easier,  while  it  exhilarates  somewhat,  but  has  no  soporific 
or  anaesthetic  effect,  nor  does  it  depress  any  of  the  functions.  Of  the  different  forms  of 
dyspnoea  in  which  it  gives  more  or  less  relief,  spasmodic  asthma  is  the  one  in  which  it  is  most 
efficient  (Lawrence,  Med.  Record,  xvii.  688;  xxiii.  58).  Tf  the  iodine  contained  in  the 
compound  has  a share  in  its  action,  it  is  probably  a subordinate  one.  It  has  been  used 
with  benefit  in  chronic  laryngitis.  Gm.  0.60—1.00  (10  or  15  drops)  maybe  inhaled  several 
times  a day  from  a handkerchief  or  an  appropriate  respirator.  It  is  conveniently  per- 
served  in  glass  capsules,  which  may  be  crushed  in  a handkerchief  when  used. 


144 


AGARICINUM. 


AGARICINUM,  P.  G.— Agaricin. 

Agaric  acid , Laricin,  E.  ; Agaricinsdure , G. 

A principle  obtained  from  white  agaric,  Polyporus  officinalis,  Fries , s.  Boletus  laricis, 
Jacquin , s.  B.  purgans,  Persoon  (Fungi,  Polyporei). 

Preparation. — White  agaric,  when  treated  with  alcohol,  yields  to  it  four  resinous 
principles,  which  are  separated  by  evaporation  of  the  alcohol,  when  three  white  resins 
are  precipitated,  the  other,  red-colored  resin,  remaining  in  solution.  The  precipitate  is 
collected,  and  treated  with  alcoholic  potassium  hydroxide  solution,  which  dissolves  only  the 
a-  resin.  The  residue,  containing  the  ft  and  the  y resin,  is  treated  with  water,  when 
only  the  former  as  potassium  salt  is  dissolved.  This  aqueous  solution  is  precipitated 
with  barium  chloride,  the  precipitate  collected,  dissolved  in  boiling  dilute  alcohol,  and 
the  resin  freed  by  sulphuric  acid.  The  alcoholic  filtrate  yields  on  cooling  agaricin,  which 
may  be  obtained  in  the  crystalline  state  from  30  per  cent,  alcohol,  which  the  P.  G.,  how- 
ever, does  not  require. 

Properties. — Agaricin  forms  either  a white  amorphous  or  crystalline  powder ; the 
microscope  shows  the  latter  to  be  made  up  of  quadrangular  plates.  It  fuses  near  140° 
0.  (284°  F.)  to  a yellow  liquid,  which,  when  heated  to  a higher  temperature,  throws  out 
white  fumes  and  chars  with  a caramel-like  odor  ; lastly,  it  burns,  leaving  no  or  only  a 
trace  of  residue.  It  is  soluble  in  130  parts  cold  and  10  parts  warm  alcohol,  more  solu- 
ble in  warm  acetic  acid,  and  only  slightly  soluble  in  ether,  chloroform,  benzene,  and  cold 
water  ; in  hot  water  it  swells,  and  when  boiled  dissolves,  forming  an  opalescent  and 
strongly-foaming  solution,  which  shows  an  acid  reaction  with  litmus-paper,  and  on  cool- 
ing becomes  turbid.  Ammonia  and  potassium-hydroxide  solution  should  dissolve  agaricin. 
0.1  Gm.  agaricin,  dissolved  in  15  Cc.  absolute  alcohol,  yields  with  alcoholic  potassium 
solution  a white  precipitate  which  should  be  soluble  in  water.  According  to  Schmieder, 
agaricin  has  the  formula  C16H30O5  + H20,  and  represents  a bivalent  hydroxyacid. 

White  agaric , E. ; Agaric  blanc,  Fr. ; Ldrchenschivamm,  G. ; Agarico  bianco , F.  It.,  Sp. 

Polyporus  officinalis,  Fries , s.  Boletus  laricis,  Jacquin , s.  B.  purgans,  Persoon. 

Nat.  Ord. — Fungi,  Polyporei. 

Origin. — This  fungus  grows  on  old  trunks  of  the  European  larch  in  Central  and  Southern 
Europe,  and  on  Larix  sibirica,  Ledebour , in  the  northern  section  of  Asia,  whence  it  is  brought 
into  commerce.  It  is  without  a stalk,  hoof-shaped  or  irregularly  conical,  10-20  Cm.  (4  to  8 inches) 
broad,  5-10  Cm.  (2  to  4 inches)  thick,  and  sometimes  20-30  Cm.  (8  to  12  inches)  high,  exter- 
nally grayish  or  yellowish  : the  hymenium  on  the  lower  side  is  in  the  form  of  small  yellowish 
pores.  It  is  collected  in  autumn  and  winter,  and  deprived  of  the  firm  outer  rind.  In  commerce 
it  occurs  in  irregular  pieces  of  the  size  of  a fist,  and  frequently  much  larger.  It  is  white,  light, 
somewhat  spongy,  very  friable,  but  not  readily  pulverizable ; has  a faint  odor  and  a sweetish 
afterward  acrid  and  lastingly  bitter  taste. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  ancients  used  agaric  as  a purgative  in  large  doses  and  as 
an  astringent  in  small  doses.  In  the  former  way,  and  owing  probably  to  its  resin,  it  is 
said  to  have  produced  watery  stools  and  colic,  with  nausea  and  vomiting  in  some  cases ; 
and  in  the  latter  it  was  employed  to  check  diarrhoea  and  restrain  sweating.  It  is  for  the 
last-mentioned  purposes  that  it  is  now  occasionally  used,  as  well  as  to  diminish  excessive 
bronchial  secretions.  These  three  indications  are  often  associated  in  pulmonary  consump- 
tion, and  it  undoubtedly  is  one  of  the  best  palliatives  that  can  be  used  of  the  symptoms 
mentioned.  Murrell  (. Practitioner , xxix.  321)  traces  its  use  to  DeHaen  in  1767,  who 
learned  it  from  an  old  woman.  From  that  time  it  has  been  employed  successfully  to 
check  colliquative  sweating,  and  in  pulmonary  phthisis  it  also  palliates  the  cough  and 
promotes  sleep,  perhaps  indirectly.  In  1826,  Toel  advocated  its  use  for  this  purpose, 
and  pointed  out  that  the  arrest  of  sweating  by  its  means  was  apt  to  imply  the  increase 
or  the  production  of  a diarrhoea  (Richter,  Ausfurlich.  Arzneim.,  ii.  76).  It  is  said  to 
hasten  the  drying  up  of  the  milk  in  weaning.  Agaric  may  be  given  in  pill  in  the  dose 
of  Gm.  0.12-0.20  (gr.  ij-iij),  and  repeated  hourly  or  less  frequently,  according  to  the 
urgency  of  the  case.  Wolfenden  ( Times  and  Gaz .,  Oct.  1881,  p.  442)  recommends  20- 
grain  doses  of  powdered  agaric,  but  owing  to  its  dryness,  lightness,  and  bitterness  it  is 
taken  with  difficulty  in  this  form.  Murrell  gave  pills  made  of  the  extract,  each  pill  of 
3 grains  being  equivalent  to  9 grains  of  powder.  A tincture  and  a fluid  extract  have 
also  been  found  efficient.  Prepared  agaric  is  useful  as  an  application  to  leech-bites  and 
similar  wounds  to  arrest  haemorrhage,  and  formed  into  cylinders  it  serves  for  moxas. 

Agaric  acid  is  a local  irritant,  and  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.50-1  (gr.  vij-xv)  occasions 
diarrhoea  and  vomiting.  In  cold-blooded  animals  it  depresses  the  central  nervous  system 


AG  A VE.—A  GRIMONIA. 


145 


and  the  heart.  In  the  rabbit  it  induces  somnolence,  debility,  and  retarded  circulation 
and  respiration  (Hoffineister,  Therap.  Gaz .,  xiii.  50,  267,  536).  In  1883,  Seifert  tested 
the  virtues  of  agavidne  (agaric  acid)  in  counteracting  colliquative  sweats , and  found  it 
very  efficient  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.004—0.02  (gr.  ^).  The  associated  symptoms,  thirst, 
diarrhoea,  cough,  etc.,  were  also  ameliorated  ( Centralbl . f d.  g.  Ther .,  i.  524).  Riegel 
estimated  that  Gm.  0.01  (gr.  i)  of  agaricine  had  the  antihydrotic  power  of  Gm.  0.05  (gr. 
f)  of  atropine.  He  also  noted  that  when  continuously  used  it  did  not  derange  the 
nervous  or  the  digestive  system  ( ibid .,  ii.  165).  Pribram  remarked  that  the  first  doses 
were  less  efficient  than  the  subsequent  ones,  and  that  their  influence  was  maintained  for 
several  days  after  they  were  suspended  (ibid.,  ii.  499).  Seifert,  and  also  Pribram, 
thought  that  five  or  six  hours  were  required  for  the  full  development  of  the  effects  of 
the  medicine,  but  Riegel  believed  that  its  action  was  almost  immediate.  Agaricine,  if 
used  continuously,  tends  to  cause  diarrhoea  ; therefore  Lauschmann  associated  it  with  small 
doses  of  Dover’s  powder,  and  others  have  used  sulphuric  acid  to  reinforce  its  action. 

AGAVE. — American  Aloe. 

Century -plant,  E. ; Maguey,  E.,  Fr.  Sp. ; Agave , G-,  Sp. 

Agave  americana,  I/inne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Amaryllidaceae. 

Description. — The  plant  is  indigenous  to  the  tropical  portion  of  America,  has  been 
introduced  and  naturalized  in  Southern  Florida,  and  is  frequently  met  with  in  cultivation 
in  all  parts  of  the  globe,  and  to  some  extent  naturalized  in  the  warmer  portions  thereof. 
The  leaves  are  all  radical,  curving  backward,  about  6 feet  (5.4  M.)  long,  thick  and  fleshy, 
lanceolate  in  shape,  and  at  the  apex  and  margins  armed  with  sharp  spines.  The  plant 
flowers  in  its  native  localities  usually  in  about  10  years,  but  attains  a considerable  age 
before  flowering  in  temperate  climates,  hence  the  name  “ century -plant the  rapidly- 
growing  flowering  scape  reaches  a height  of  30  to  40  feet  (9—12  M.). 

Agave  mexicana,  Lamarck , and  A.  vivipara,  Linne , are  closely-allied  Mexican  species. 

Uses. — A translucent  gum  is  obtained  from  it,  known  as  gum-maguey,  which  is  partly 
soluble  in  water,  the  solution  containing  malate  of  calcium,  besides  a substance  resem- 
bling arabin.  The  fibres  of  the  leaves,  known  as  pita,  are  strong  and  valuable  for  cord- 
age. The  juice  of  the  plant,  aguamiel,  or  honey-water,  is  saccharine,  and  is  either  evapo- 
rated to  the  consistence  of  honey,  or  more  frequently  fermented  to  yield  a vinous  acidu- 
lous beverage,  which  in  Mexico  is  called  pulque , and  by  distillation  a kind  of  brandy 
known  as  mezcal  or  aguardiente  de  maguey.  The  roots  are  regarded  as  possessing  alter- 
ative properties.  (For  papers  on  the  uses  of  Agave  the  reader  is  referred  xo  Amer.  Journ. 
Pharm.,  1875,  p.  78,  and  1876,  p.  301.) 

Agave  virginica,  I/inne,  of  the  Southern  United  States,  produces  a scape  about  4 or  5 
feet  (1.2-1. 5 M.)  high.  Its  roots  are  very  bitter. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  fresh  juice  of  this  plant  is  acidulous  or  acrid,  and  is  said 
to  be  laxative  and  diuretic.  Like  all  such  plants,  its  juice  is  an  admirable  remedy  for 
scurvy.  G.  Perin,  Asst.  Surg.-Gen.  U.  S.  A.,  published  (1886)  illustrations  of  its  value 
to  the  army  on  the  Mexican  frontier.  A decoction  of  the  root  was  formerly  used  as  a 
depurative  in  scrofulous  and  syphilitic  diseases,  and  the  juice  is  said  to  be  efficacious  in 
“Bright’s  disease”  ( Therap . Gaz.,  xii.  425),  but  the  testimony  in  its  favor  is  not  conclu- 
sive. A nearly-allied  species  furnishes  a juice  from  which,  as  above  stated,  the  Mexican 
alcoholic  drink  pulque  is  prepared  ; and  in  the  Southern  States  of  this  country  a tincture 
is  made  from  the  roots  of  A.  Virginica  and  used  for  the  relief  of  colic  and  as  an  antidote 
to  the  rattlesnake's  bite.  The  plant  is  known  as  the  rattlesnake' s master, 

AGRIMONIA. — Agrimony. 

Herba  agrimonise. — Aigremoine,  Eupatoire  des  Grecs , Fr. ; Odermennig , Leberklette,  G. 

Agrimonia  Eupatoria,  Linm. 

Nat.  Ord. — Rosaceae,  Roseae. 

Description. — An  herbaceous  perennial,  about  2 feet  (60  Cm.)  high,  indigenous  to 
Europe  and  North  America,  and  growing  along  roadsides  and  the  border  of  woods.  The  root 
is  fibrous,  several-headed,  and  brown  ; the  stem  almost  simple ; the  leaves  about  5 inches 
(13  Cm.)  long  below,  pinnate,  with  4 to  8 pairs  of  elliptic-oblong,  coarsely-toothed  leaflets, 
intermixed  with  several  pairs  of  minute  ones ; the  stipules  semi-cordate,  clasping,  and 
coarsely  serrate.  The  yellow  flowers  are  rather  small,  in  slender  spicate  racemes,  and  have  a 
10 


146 


AILANTHUS. 


persistent  top-shaped  calyx,  which  is  covered  with  hooked  bristles.  The  plant  is  collected 
while  flowering  from  June  to  September  and  deprived  of  the  coarse  stems.  It  has  a very 
faint  aromatic  odor  and  a bitterish,  mildly  astringent  taste,  which  is  stronger  in  the  root. 

The  closely-allied  Agr.  parviflora,  Alton,  indigenous  to  the  United  States,  is  distinguished 
by  smaller  flowers  and  by  crowded  lanceolate  leaflets,  of  which  there  are  11  to  19  pairs, 
intermixed  with  smaller  ones. 

Constituents. — H.  K.  Bowman  (1869)  determined  agrimony  to  contain  4.75  per 
cent,  of  tannin ; the  other  constituents  are  unknown. 

Action  and  Uses. — Common  agrimony  is  astringent  and  stimulant,  and  is  chiefly 
employed  in  popular  medicine  in  gargles  for  sore  throat , as  a wash  for  ulcers  in  man  and 
beast,  and  internally  for  the  cure  of  intermittent  fever , chronic  fluxes  of  the  bowels, 
bladder,  vagina,  etc.,  and  for  passive  haemorrhages.  It  is  said  to  be  used  instead  of 
Chinese  tea  by  the  peasantry  of  the  north  of  France.  It  may  be  given  in  an  infusion 
made  with  from  Gm.  4-16  (1  to  4 drachms)  in  a pint  of  water.  Externally,  it  may  be 
employed  in  fomentations,  poultices,  injections,  or  gargles,  and  in  the  last  form  with  the 
addition  of  honey,  vinegar,  borax,  or  chlorate  of  potassium.  According  to  Nicholson,  it  is 
an  efficient  tseniacide,  when  given  pounded  to  a pulp  and  followed  several  hours  after- 
ward by  a dose  of  jalap,  and  also  an  active  diuretic  and  antiscorbutic  ( Times  and  Gaz ., 
Sept.  1879,  p.  367). 


AILANTHUS. — Tree  of  Heaven. 

Chinese  sumach , E. ; Gbtterbaum , G. 

Nat.  Ord. — Simarubaceae. 

Description. — Three  species  are  medicinally  employed,  of  which  two  are  natives  of 
India,  and  one,  indigenous  to  China,  is  much  cultivated  in  the  United  States  and  Europe 
as  an  ornamental  tree.  The  latter  is  Ailanthus  glandulosa,  Desfontaines.  It  is  of  rapid 
growth,  producing  a straight  trunk,  which  is  covered  with  a nearly  smooth,  brown-gray, 
internally  yellowish,  fibrous  bark.  The  leaves  are  .9-1.2  M.  (3  or  4 feet)  long,  oddly 
pinnate,  with  about  15  pairs  of  leaflets,  which  are  shortly  petiolate,  oblong  or  ovate-lan- 
ceolate, with  a few  teeth  near  the  base.  The  greenish  polygamous  flowers  are  in  terminal 
panicles,  and  exhale  an  odor  which  is  disagreeable  to  many  persons.  The  pistillate  flowers 
produce  3 to  5 linear-oblong,  one-seeded  samaras.  This  tree  is  known  in  France  as  vernis 
des  japon , which  name  is  also  used  for  Rhus  Vernix,  Linne. 

The  leaves  are  the  favorite  food  of  the  silk-worm,  Bombyx  cynthia ; the  barks  of  the 
trunk  and  of  the  root  have  been  employed  medicinally ; both  have  a persistently  bitter 
taste. 

Ail.  excels  a,  Roxburgh , is  a similar  tree,  with  larger  and  broader  leaflets.  The  bark, 
which  is  used  as  a tonic  and  febrifuge  in  India,  is  of  a reddish  or  orange  color  internally, 
and  has  a very  bitter  taste. 

Ail.  malabarica,  De  Candolle,  has  obliquely  oblong  and  entire  leaflets  and  obtusely 
winged  fruits.  When  incised  the  bark  yields  a gum-resin  which  has  an  aromatic  odor 
and  is  used  as  incense  in  India  and  medicinally  in  dysentery. 

Constituents. — An  analysis  by  Alonzo  Lilly  (1861)  of  the  bark  of  the  first  species 
determined  the  presence  of  tannin  and  a trace  of  volatile  oil,  besides  the  widely-dis- 
tributed vegetable  principles ; the  bitter  principle  was  not  isolated.  The  bark  of  the 
second  species  was  analyzed  by  Marayan  Daji  (1870),  who  found  the  bitter  taste  to  be 
due  to  the  calcium  salt  of  ailanthic  acid , which  like  the  lead  salt  is  yellow  and  soluble  in 
water.  The  acid  is  uncrystallizable,  freely  soluble  in  water,  insoluble  in  other  solvents, 
of  a waxy  consistence  and  reddish-brown  color. 

Action  and  Uses- — The  infusion,  decoction,  and  tincture  of  the  bark  are  stated 
(Daji)to  be  useful  in  anorexia,  dyspepsia,  and  atonic  conditions  generally  of  the  digestive 
organs,  such  as  those  for  which  gentian,  quassia,  etc.  are  prescribed.  The  acid  is  said  to 
provoke  the  secretion  of  bile  when  it  is  deficient.  An  infusion  of  the  leaves  has  been 
employed  in  dysentery.  Ailanthus  has  been  used  in  the  treatment  of  taenia  in  dogs,  and  also 
in  man  under  the  form  of  a powder  of  the  bark  or  leaves,  and  also  as  a watery  or  an  alco- 
holic extract  of  the  bark,  a resin,  and  an  oleo-resin.  It  has  caused  the  expulsion  of  the 
parasite  when  given  in  substance  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.50  (gr.  viii)  or  Gm.  0.25  (gr.  iv) 
of  the  watery  extract,  or  Gm.  0.20  (gr.  iij)  of  the  oleo-resin.  The  resin  alone  is  nearly 
inert.  The  extract  occasions  slight  colic  and  moderate  purging,  and  does  not  exhaust  or 
depress  like  pomegranate  or  kousso. 


ALBUMEN  OVI.— ALCOHOL. 


147 


ALBUMEN  OVI,  Br.— Egg  Albumen. 

White  of  egg , E. ; Blanc  cPoeuf  Fr. ; Eiweiss , (4. 

The  liquid  white  of  the  egg  of  Gallus  Bankiva,  var.  domesticus,  Temminck.  (See 
VlTELLUS.) 

Action  and  Uses. — It  forms  insoluble  and  inert  compounds  with  corrosive  subli- 
mate and  sulphate  of  copper,  and  is  therefore  a convenient  and  efficient  antidote  in 
poisoning  by  these  substances.  Agitated  with  powdered  alum,  it  coagulates,  and  thus 
forms  a convenient  and  very  grateful  poultice  for  local  erythemas , burns , contusions, 
excoriations , bites  and  stings  of  insects,  etc.  ; and,  confined  in  a thin  bag,  it  is  a popular 
and  useful  application  for  acute  inflammations  of  the  conjunctiva.  Diluted  with  water  or 
added  to  milk,  it  forms  a valuable  article  of  food  in  the  acute  and  chronic  diarrhoeal 
complaints  of  children  and  adults.  It  is  an  appropriate  article  of  food  in  albuminuria, 
being  very  nutritious  and  not  tending  to  increase  the  proportion  of  albumen  in  the  urine 
(Loewenmeyer,  Zeitschrift  f Min.  Med,,  x.  254).  It  should  be  remembered  that  for  some 
persons  eggs  are  an  irritant  poison  ( British  Med.  Jour.,  May,  1886,  p.  1018).  According 
to  Ewald,  the  yolk  of  egg  in  emulsion,  and  slightly  salted,  and  administered  by  enema,  has 
a high  nutritive  value  ( Annuaire  de  Therap.,  1888,  p.  272).  The  injection  should  not 
exceed  half  a pint,  and  should  be  administered  cautiously  through  a rectal  tube  an  hour 
after  cleansing  the  bowel  by  a simple  enema. 

ALCOHOL,  TJ.  S. — Alcohol. 

Spiritus,  P.  G.  ; Spiritus  rectificatus , Br.  ; Spiritus  vini  rectificatissimus , Alcohol  vini. — 
Rectified  spirit , E. ; Alcool,  F.  It.,  Fr. ; Weingeist , Alkohol,  G. 

Spirit  of  the  specific  gravity  0.820  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  or  0.812  at  25°  C.  (77°  F.)  TJ. 
S.,  6.838  Br.,  0.830  to  0.834  P.  G.  Containing  per  cent.,  by  weight,  of  absolute  alcohol 
91  U.  S.,  84  Br.,  87.2  to  85.6  P.  G.  Containing  per  cent.,  by  volume,  of  absolute 
alcohol  94  U.  S.,  88.7  Br.,  91.2  to  90  P.  G. 

Diluted  alcohol  has  the  specific  gravity  0.938  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  TJ.  S.,  0.920  Br., 
0.892  to  0.896  P.  G.  Contains  per  cent.,  by  weight,  of  absolute  alcohol  41  U.  S.,  49 
Br.,  61  to  60  P.  G.  Contains  per  cent,  by  volume,  of  absolute  alcohol  48.6  TJ.  S.,  57 
Br.,  69  to  68  P.  G. 

Absolute  alcohol,  TJ.  S.  P.,  has  a specific  gravity  not  higher  than  0.797  at  15°  C. 
(59°  F.)  or  0.789  at  25°  C.  (77°  F.). 

Ethylic  alcohol,  Br.  P.,  has  a specific  gravity  from  0.797  to  0.800  at  60°  F.  The 
former  contains  not  less  than  99  per  cent,  by  weight  of  ethylic  hydroxide  (C.2H5OH), 
while  the  latter  contains  98  or  99  per  cent. 

Deodorized  alcohol,  U.  S.  P.,  has  a specific  gravity  of  about  0.816  at  15°  C.  (59° 
F.)  or  0.808  at  25°  C.  (77°  F.),  and  contains  92.5  per  cent.,  by  weight,  or  95.5  per  cent., 
by  volume,  of  absolute  alcohol. 

Formula  of  absolute  alcohol,  C2H5OH.  Molecular  weight  45.9. 

Origin. — Alcohol  may  be  obtained  synthetically  by  first  preparing  acetylene,  C2H2,  by 
direct  union  of  its  elements,  converting  this  into  ethene,  C2H2,  and  by  combination  with 
the  elements  of  water  forming  alcohol.  It  has  been  detected  by  Dr.  Gutzeit  (1875)  in  the 
juice  of  a number  of  plants ; Bechamp  (1880)  proved  its  presence  in  the  urine  and  in  the 
muscles  of  animals,  and  in  putrid  meat ; and  Muentz  (1882)  showed  it  to  be  contained  in 
minute  quantities  in  air,  river-water,  and  cultivated  soil.  It  is  extensively  prepared  by 
the  fermentation  of  saccharine  liquids. 

Fermentation. — Although  the  knowledge  of  various  fermented  alcoholic  liquids 
dates  back  to  remote  antiquity,  alcohol  does  not  appear  to  have  been  separated  from  the 
spirituous  beverages  until  about  the  eighth  century  of  the  present  era,  and  soon  afterward 
its  strength  was  increased  by  repeated  distillation.  Under  the  name  of  fermentation 
various  processes  of  decomposition  are  embraced,  apparently  depending  upon  the  mere 
presence  of  a certain  substance  or  compound,  called  the  ferment,  which  does  not  enter  into 
chemical  composition  with  the  fermenting  substance  or  its  products,  and  is  capable  of 
producing  a large,  if  not  unlimited,  quantity  of  the  latter.  The  several  varieties  of  fermen- 
tation are  distinguished  from  each  other  by  the  products  obtained.  Accordingly,  we  speak 
of  saccharine  fermentation  when  starch  is  converted  into  dextrin  and  sugar  by  diastase ; 
of  lactic  fermentation  when  milk-sugar  is  transformed  into  lactic  acid  by  casein  ; of  butyric 
fermentation  when  milk-sugar  and  lactic  acid  yield  butyric  acid  in  the  presence  of  the 
same  compound  ; of  mucic  fermentation  when  cane-sugar  is  changed  into  mucus  and  mannit 


148 


ALCOHOL. 


by  protein  compounds  ; of  alcoholic  or  vinous  fermentation,  when  grape-sugar,  or  fruit-sugar, 
is  split  into  alcohol  and  carbon  dioxide  under  the  influence  of  yeast ; and  of  acetic  fermen- 
tation when  alcohol  is  oxidized  to  acetic  acid,  for  which  process  some  investigators  consider 
the  appearance  of  My  coderma  aceti  as  a ferment  necessary.  The  decomposition  of  the 
numerous  class  of  organic  compounds  known  as  glucosides  by  the  action  of  emulsin, 
myrosin,  and  similar  protein  compounds,  and  the  action  of  ptyalin  upon  starch,  of  pan- 
creatin  upon  fat,  and  of  pepsin  upon  albumen,  etc.,  are  other  instances  of  fermentation 
induced  and  completed  by  the  substances  named,  which  are  the  ferments. 

The  exact  manner  in  which  these  ferments  act  has  not  yet  been  determined,  and  with 
respect  even  to  the  vinous  fermentation  is  still  a subject  of  controversy,  notwithstanding  the 
numerous  experiments  performed  with  the  view  of  solving  the  problem.  When,  in  1810, 
Gay-Lussac  demonstrated  that  sugar  solutions  would  ferment  only  in  the  presence  of 
atmospheric  air,  the  process  was  regarded  as  depending  upon  the  action  of  oxygen. 
Although  the  presence  of  organisms  in  yeast  was  afterward  demonstrated  (see  Fer- 
mentum),  their  connection  with  the  process  itself  was  not  ascertained.  Liebig  (1839) 
perfected  and  enlarged  the  theory  which  was  advanced  by  Stahl  during  the  preceding 
century,  and  regarded  fermentation  as  a metamorphosis  induced  by  nitrogenized  sub- 
stances in  a state  of  decomposition  or  putrefaction.  Chiefly  through  Pasteur’s  investi- 
gations, which  have  been  continued  since  1858,  it  is  now  generally  conceded  that  under 
ordinary  circumstances  the  ferment  of  alcoholic  fermentation  is  of  vegetable  origin,  and 
consists  of  the  so-called  yeast-cells  or  yeast-plant,  Saccharomyces  (Torula,  Turpin ) cere- 
visiae,  Meyen , the  sporules  of  which  are  widely  diffused  in  the  air,  and  are  thus  easily 
supplied  to  all  liquids  capable  of  vinous  fermentation  ; hence,  if  these  spores  are  destroyed 
by  boiling  the  liquid,  and  if  their  further  supply  is  arrested  by  admitting  only  air  which 
has  been  filtered  or  passed  through  sulphuric  acid,  vinous  fermentation  does  not  take 
place.  Alcohol  and  the  other  compounds  formed  during  fermentation  are  not  merely 
regarded  as  decomposition-products  of  sugar,  but  they  result  from  the  growth  and  multi- 
plication of  the  yeast-plant,  the  existence  of  which  depends  upon  the  presence  of  sugar 
and  protein,  and  by  whose  cells  the  new  compounds  are  generated. 

The  formation  of  alcohol  from  sugar  is  expressed  by  the  equation  C6H1206  (grape- 
sugar)  = 2C02  -f  2C2H60  (alcohol)  ; but  the  process  does  not  appear  to  be  so  simple, 
since  small  quantities  of  succinic  acid  (about  0.6  per  cent.),  glycerin  (3  per  cent.),  and 
cellulose  (1  per  cent.)  are  always  formed,  according  to  Pasteur.  Amylic  and  other  homol- 
ogous alcohols  are  likewise  produced  in  vinous  fermentation. 

Berthelot  observed  that  mannit,  glycerin,  milk-sugar,  and  other  carbohydrates  yield 
alcohol  very  slowly  when  in  contact  with  water,  chalk,  and  casein. 

Preparation. — Cane-sugar  is  not  directly  fermentable  until  after  it  has  been  inverted, 
either  by  the  action  of  a ferment  or  of  a diluted  acid.  (See  Saccharum.)  Nearly  all  the 
ordinary  alcohol  is  obtained  from  starchy  substances,  such  as  corn,  rye,  potatoes,  etc., 
which  require  to  be  mashed , during  which  process,  by  the  gluten  contained  in  grain  or  by 
the  diastase  of  the  malt  added  with  this  object  in  view,  the  starch  is  converted  into  maltose 
(see  Amylum),  and  finally  completely  changed  into  dextrose,  or  grape-sugar,  when  it 
becomes  fermentable.  This  being  accomplished,  fermentation  will  speedily  set  in  on  the 
addition  of  yeast  if  the  temperature  is  kept  at  22°  C.  (71.6°  F.)  or  within  the  limits  of 
18°  and  28°  C.  (64.4°  and  82.4°  F.).  At  a lower  temperature  fermentation  proceeds 
slowly,  and  at  a higher  temperature  mucilage  and  lactic  acid  are  apt  to  be  formed.  If 
too  large  a quantity  of  sugar  is  present,  the  fermentation  will  be  arrested  after  some  time, 
in  consequence  of  the  destruction  of  the  vitality  of  the  yeast-plant  by  the  alcohol  formed. 
A very  favorable  proportion  is  1 part  of  sugar  to  4 of  water.  It  is  obvious  that  grape-sugar 
or  fruit-sugar,  from  whatever  source  obtained,  may  be  used  in  the  manufacture  of  alcohol. 

On  subjecting  the  fermented  liquid  to  distillation  a weak  spirit  is  obtained,  wrhich 
requires  rectification  and  contains  small  quantities  of  homologous  alcohols  or  ethers, 
varying  with  the  source  from  which  the  spirit  has  been  obtained.  Potato  spirit  contains 
amylic  alcohol ; whiskey , obtained  from  grain,  contains,  besides  amylic  alcohol,  some 
cenanthic  and  other  ethers ; brandy , the  distillate  of  wine,  owes  its  odor  to  oenanthic  and 
perhaps  propylic  and  allied  ethers ; rum,  from  fermented  molasses,  to  butyric  ether ; and 
arrack , from  fermented  rice,  to  an  unknown  compound.  The  odor  of  gin  is  imparted  by 
distilling  spirit  with  juniper-berries;  that  of  the  so-called  Jcirsch , or  kirschwasser , by  the 
seeds  of  cherries  or  plums  added  before  fermentation:  in  this  case  it  is  due  to  hydrocyanic 
acid  and  oil  of  bitter  almonds. 

The  purification  of  spirit  is  effected  by  percolating  it  through  recently  burned  and 
granulated  charcoal,  by  which  the  fusel  oil  is  retained ; this  process  is  called  leaching , and 


ALCOHOL. 


149 


is  most  effectually  accomplished  if  the  spirit  has  been  previously  diluted.  Distillation 
with  various  chemicals,  with  the  view  of  destroying  the  fusel  oil,  has  been  suggested,  and 
small  quantities  of  manganates  and  permanganates  have  been  used  with  success  (manga- 
nate  of  sodium  for  Atwood’s  alcohol).  A small  quantity  of  silver  nitrate  (not  more 
than  from  2 to  5 Gm.  for  1000  litres  of  crude  spirit)  has  been  recommended  for  the  same 
purpose  ; the  silver  may  obviously  be  recovered  without  difficulty.  Usually,  however,  the 
purification  and  concentration  of  the  spirit  are  effected  in  one  operation  by  distilling  it 
and  passing  the  vapors  through  a series  of  condensers  kept  at  different  temperatures,  or 
through  an  upright  column  in  the  lower  part  of  which  the  fusel  oil  and  water  are  con- 
densed at  a temperature  at  which  the  alcohol  is  not  liquefied,  but  this  is  recovered  sub- 
sequently in  an  ordinary  condenser.  The  apparatus  is  constructed  so  as  to  permit  an 
uninterrupted  distillation  until  the  water  finally  has  accumulated  in  the  still. 

Naudin  (1882)  has  devised  a process  by  means  of  which  the  odorous  compounds,  par- 
ticularly the  aldehydes,  are  changed  into  alcohols  through  nascent  hydrogen,  generated 
by  electrolysis. 

The  last  traces  of  foreign  odor  are  difficult  to  remove  by  re-rectification,  but  are  said 
to  be  completely  separated  by  pure  sodium  acetate,  on  distilling  the  alcohol  over  about 
2 per  cent,  or  less  of  this  salt  which  has  been  previousl}7  deprived  of  water  by  fusion. 

Alcohol  ethylicum,  Br. — Ethylic  alcohol,  Absolute  alcohol. 

The  Br.  Pharm.  directs  that  2 oz.  of  anhydrous  potassium  carbonate  be  added  to  1 pint 
(imperial)  of  rectified  spirit,  and  the  mixture  macerated  in  a stoppered  bottle  for  twenty- 
four  hours,  with  frequent  agitation.  Decant  the  spirit  into  a flask  containing  1 pound  of 
recently  ignited  and  cooled  calcium  chloride  in  small  pieces,  and  again  set  aside  for 
twenty-four  hours,  with  frequent  agitation.  Finally,  distil  about  2 fluidounces.  which 
should  be  returned  to  the  flask,  and  then  continue  distillation  until  15  fluidounces  have 
been  recovered. 

The  spirit,  as  obtained  by  the  different  processes  of  distillation,  contains  water,  the 
first  distillate  being  stronger,  the  later  portions  weaker,  in  alcohol ; the  strongest  spirit 
obtainable  from  an  ordinary  still  with  a single  condenser  has  the  specific  gravity 
0.825 ; with  a system  of  condensers  alcohol  of  the  density  0.815  to  0.817  is  obtainable. 
The  last  portions  of  water  can  be  removed  only  by  treating  the  alcohol  with  a substance 
having  great  affinity  for  water,  for  which  purpose  calcium  chloride  and  other  deliques- 
cent salts,  anhydrous  copper  sulphate,  burned  lime,  etc.  have  been  proposed.  If  cal- 
cium chloride  is  used,  the  distillation  must  be  slow  and  repeated  two  or  three  times. 
Lime  is  better  adapted  for  the  purpose  if  broken  into  pieces  and  digested  with  the  alcohol 
for  a day  or  two,  or  boiled  with  it  for  an  hour  previous  to  distillation.  The  distillate,  the 
first  part  of  which  is  weaker  than  the  subsequent  portions,  contains  lime  which  has  been 
mechanically  carried  over,  and  will  be  left  in  the  retort  if  the  alcohol  is  again  rectified 
with  the  addition  of  a little  tartaric  acid.  The  recommendations  of  Mendelejeff  for  the 
use  of  recently-burned  lime  in  the  dehydration  of  alcohol  are  followed  by  the  manufac- 
turers of  absolute  alcohol  in  this  country.  By  careful  treatment  with  lime  and  subse- 
quent distillation  in  a partial  vacuum  it  is  possible  to  remove  all  water  but  a small  frac- 
tion of  1 per  cent.  For  some  practical  observations  on  the  rectification  of  alcohol  by 
means  of  lime  the  reader  is  referred  to  the  Amer.  Jour,  of  Pharmacy , 1872,  p.  Ill  and 
1874,  p.  184). 

Alcohol  dilutum,  U.  S. ; Spiritus  tenuior,  Br. ; Spiritus  dilutus,  s.  Spiritus  vini 
rectificatus,  P.  G. — Diluted  alcohol,  Proof  spirit,  E. ; Alcool  dilue,  Fr. ; Verd  linn  ter 
Spiritus,  G. 

Alcohol  500  Cc.,  Distilled  water  500  Cc.  Mix  them.  Or  Alcohol  410  Gm.,  Distilled 
water  500  Gm.  Mix  them. — U.  S.  When  alcohol  and  water  are  mixed  the  liquid  suf- 
fers contraction  of  volume,  which  amounts  to  about  2.9  per  cent,  at  a temperature  of 
15.6°  0.  (60°  F.)  ; for  instance,  if  32  fluidounces  each  of  alcohol  and  water  be  measured 
at  60°  F.  and  then  mixed,  the  resulting  liquid  will  measure  only  62|  fluidounces  at  the 
same  temperature.  The  mixture  must  be  allowed  to  cool  to  the  original  temperature,  as 
some  heat  is  invariably  developed  whenever  condensation  of  volume  results  from  a mix- 
ture of  two  or  more  liquids. 

The  rise  in  temperature  when  alcohol  and  water  are  mixed  will  be  greatest  if  30  parts 
by  weight  of  absolute  alcohol  be  mixed  with  70  parts  by  weight  of  water;  it  amounts  to 
9°  C.  (16.2°  F.) ; contraction  of  volume  will  be  greatest  if  58  parts  of  absolute  alcohol 
be  mixed  with  54  parts  of  water,  both  by  volume ; this  mixture  will  yield  at  15°  C.  (59° 
F.)  108  volumes  instead  of  112,  having  suffered  a loss  of  4 volumes  (3.57  -j-  percent.) 
by  condensation  (Fliickiger;. 


150 


ALCOHOL. 


Rules  for  making  an  alcohol  of  any  required  lower  percentage  from  an  alcohol  of  any 
given  higher  percentage  : 

I.  By  Volume. — Designate  the  volume-percentage  of  the  stronger  alcohol  by  V,  and 
that  of  the  weaker  alcohol  by  v. 

Rule. — Mix  v volumes  of  the  stronger  alcohol  with  pure  water  to  make  Fvolumes  of 
product.  Allow  the  mixture  to  stand  until  full  contraction  has  taken  place  and  until  it 
has  cooled,  then  make  up  any  deficiency  in  the  V volumes  by  adding  some  more  water. 

Example. — An  alcohol  of  30  per  cent,  by  volume  is  to  be  made  from  an  alcohol  of  94 
per  cent,  by  volume  : Take  30  volumes  of  the  94  per  cent,  alcohol,  and  add  enough  pure 
water  to  produce  94  volumes. 

II.  By  Weight. — Designate  the  weight-percentage  of  the  stronger  alcohol  by  IF,  and 
that  of  the  weaker  by  w. 

Rule. — Mix  w parts  by  weight  of  the  stronger  alcohol  with  pure  water  to  make  IF 
parts  by  weight  of  product. 

Example. — An  alcohol  of  50  per  cent,  by  weight  is  to  be  made  from  an  alcohol  of  91 
per  cent,  by  weight : Take  50  parts  by  weight  of  the  91  per  cent,  alcohol,  and  add  enough 
pure  water  to  produce  91  parts  by  weight. 

Properties. — Spirit  containing  50  per  cent,  by  volume  of  absolute  alcohol  and  water, 
and  having  the  specific  gravity  0.936  at  15.55°  C.  (60°  F.),  has  been  adopted  as  the  standard 
proof  spirit  of  the  United  States  custom-house  and  internal  revenue  service.  The  terms 
second  proof  (52£  per  cent,  alcohol,  spec.  grav.  0.931),  third  proof  (551  per  cent.,  spec, 
grav.  0.925),  and  fourth  proof  (58  per  cent.,  spec.  grav.  0.920),  are  at  present  less  fre- 
quently used  than  formerly.  The  British  proof  spirit  has  the  specific  gravity  0.920 
(.9198),  and  contains  49.24  per  cent,  by  weight  of  absolute  alcohol.  Spirits  stronger  than 
this  standard  are  lighter,  and  are  said  to  be  over  proof ; they  are  20  over  proof  if  100 
measures  require  to  be  diluted  with  water  to  120  measures  to  become  reduced  to  proof 
strength.  100  measures  of  .rectified  spirit,  sp.  gr.  .838,  when  mixed  with  60  measures  of 
water  yield  156  measures  of  proof  spirit;  rectified  spirit  is  therefore  said  to  be  56  per 
cent,  over  proof.  A spirit  which  is  weaker  than  the  standard  is  heavier,  and  is  said  to  be 
under  proof ; it  is  20  under  proof  if  100  measures  require  the  addition  of  alcohol  sp.  gr. 
.825  (the  strongest  obtainable  by  simple  distillation)  to  make  120  measures  of  proof  spirit. 

The  strength  of  alcoholic  liquids  is  conveniently  determined  by  their  specific  gravities. 
A modification  of  the  hydrometer,  called  the  alcoholometer,  has  been  constructed  by  which 
the  percentage  strength  by  volume  or  by  weight  may  be  directly  ascertained.  As  the 
density  increases  appreciably  with  a diminution  of  temperature,  and  decreases  in  about 
the  same  ratio  with  an  elevation  of  temperature,  alcoholometers  are  constructed  with  ref- 
erence to  a standard  temperature,  which  is  either  15°  C.  or  60°  F. ; every  degree  of  varia- 
tion indicates  a difference  of  .27  for  the  former  and  .15  for  the  latter  scale,  wdiicli  must 
be  added  if  the  alcohol  tested  was  below,  or  subtracted  if  it  was  above,  the  standard 
temperature. 

In  the  United  States  and  Germany  the  scale  of  Tralles,  and  in  France  that  of  Gay- 
Lussac,  are  in  use.  Both  instruments  are  practically  identical ; they  sink  in  distilled 
water  to  0 and  in  absolute  alcohol  to  100,  each  intervening  division  indicating  a volu- 
metric percentum  of  absolute  alcohol.  Bichter’s  alcoholometer  is  essentially  that  of 
Tralles  combined  with  a scale  indicating  also  the  percentage  by  weight  of  absolute 
alcohol.  The  alcoholometer  employed  in  the  British  revenue  system  is  that  of  Sykes ; 
its  stem  is  divided  into  10  parts,  but  by  means  of  nine  accurately  adjusted  weights  which 
may  be  attached  to  the  lower  part  of  the  instrument  the  scale  is  practically  very  con- 
siderably extended ; the  indications  thus  obtained  are  by  means  of  tables  converted  into 
the  percentage  strength  over  proof  or  under  proof. 

The  table  on  pp.  151-152  is  a condensation  of  the  one  by  Dr.  E.  B.  Squibb,  as  found 
in  the  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia. 

1.  Alcohol  absolutum,  XJ.  S.  ; Alcool  assoluto,  F.  It. — This  is  a colorless  lim- 
pid liquid,  which  does  not  congeal,  but  acquires  an  oily  consistence  when  cooled  to 
— 90°  C.  ( — 130°  F.).  It  has  a refreshing  odor  and  a very  pungent  taste,  a burning 
impression  being  produced  upon  the  palate  by  the  union  with  water,  for  which  it  has 
great  avidity.  Its  specific  gravity  at  15.55°  C.  (60°  F.)  is  0.7938,  and  it  boils  at  78.3° 
C.  (174°  F.)  (Mendelejeff).  It  has  a neutral  reaction  to  test-paper,  and  does  not  cause 
anhydrous  copper  sulphate  to  assume  a blue  color  when  left  in  contact  with  it  (absence 
of  water).  It  dissolves  iodine,  bromine,  a little  phosphorus  and  sulphur,  the  alkalies 
and  alkaline  earths,  the  chlorides,  iodides,  and  nitrates  of  many  metals,  many  organic 
acids,  and  nearly  all  alkaloids,  resins,  volatile  oils,  camphor,  and  fixed  oils.  With  water 


ALCOHOL. 


151 


Specific  Gravity. 
(Pure  water  at 
15f°  C.=60°  F. 
taken  as  unity.) 

Percentage. 

Weight  of 
one  pint  at 
15|°  C.  = 60°  F. 

Specific  Gravity. 
(Pure  water  at 
15§°  C.  = 60°  F. 
taken  as  unity.) 

Percentage. 

Weight  of 
one  pint  at 
15|°  C.  = 60°  F. 

By  weight. 

By  volume. 

Of  proof  spirit.  ! 
(U.  S.  Revenue.) 

i By  weight. 

By  volume. 

Of  proof  spirit. 
(U.  S.  Revenue.) 

At 

15f°  C. 
= 60°  F. 

At 

25°  C.  = 
77°  F 

In 

Grms. 

In 

Grs. 

At 

15|°  C. 
= 60°  F. 

At 

25°  C.  = 
77°  F. 

In 

Grms. 

In 

Grs. 

0.99S5 

0.9970 

1 

9 

471.68 

7279 

0.9314 

0.9237  j 

44 

103 

439.99 

6790 

0.9981 

0.9966 

1 

471.49 

7276 

0.9303 

0.9226 

52 

104 

439.47 

6782 

0.9970 

0.9953 

2 

4 

470.98 

7268 

0.9292 

0.9214 

45 

105 

1 438.95 

6774 

0.9965 

0.9948 

2 

5 

470.74 

7264 

0.9283 

0.9205 

53 

106 

438.52 

6767 

0.9956 

0.9938 

3 

6 

470.31 

7258 

0.9270 

0.9192 

46 

107 

| 437.91 

6758 

0.9947 

0.9927 

3 

7 

469.89 

7251 

0.9262 

0.9184 

54 

, 108 

( 437.53 

6752 

0.9942 

0.9922 

4 

8 

469.66 

7248 

0.9249 

0.9171 

47 

109 

436.92 

6742 

0.9930 

0.9909 

4 

5 

10 

469.09 

7239 

0.9242 

1 0.9164 

55 

110 

436.58 

6737 

0.9914 

0.9893 

5 

6 

12 

468.33 

7227 

0.9228 

0.9150 

! 48 

111 

435.93 

! 6727 

0.9898 

0.9876 

6 

7 

14 

467.58 

7216 

0.9221 

i 0.9143 

56 

112 

! 435.60 

, 6722 

0.9890 

0.9868 

8 

16 

467.19 

7210 

0.9206 

! 0.9128 

49 

1 434.88 

6711 

0.9884 

0.9862 

7 

17 

466.91 

7205 

0.9200 

0.9122 

57 

114 

434.60 

6707 

0.9878 

0.9855 

9 

18 

466.63 

7201 

0.9184 

0.9106 

50 

433.85 

6695 

0.9869 

0.9846 

8 

10 

20 

466.21 

7194 

0.9178 

0.9100 

58 

116 

433.56 

6691 

0.9855 

0.9831 

9 

11 

22 

465.54 

7184 

0.9160 

j 0.9081 

' 51 

59 

118 

432.71 

6678 

0.9841 

0.9816 

10 

12 

24 

464.89 

7174 

0.9135 

0.9056 

: 52 

60 

120 

431.53 

i 6659 

0.9828 

0.9801 

11 

13 

27 

464.27 

7165 

0.9113 

1 0.9034 

53 

61 

122 

430.49 

6643 

0.9821 

0.9793 

14 

28 

463.94 

7159 

0.9090 

! 0.9011 

54 

1 62 

124 

429.41 

1 6627 

0.9815 

0.9787 

12 

15 

29 

463.65 

7155 

0.9069 

0.8989 

55 

1 63 

126 

428.41 

i 6611 

0.9802 

0.9773 

13 

16 

32 

463.04 

7146 

0.9047 

0.8969 

56 

| 64 

128 

427.37 

' 6595 

0.9789 

0.9759 

14 

17 

34 

462.42 

7136 

0.9025 

0.8947 

! 57 

65 

129 

426.34 

6579 

0.9778 

0.9746 

15 

18 

36 

461.90 

7128 

0.9001 

0.8923 

58 

! 66 

132 

425.20 

6562 

0.9766 

0.9733 

16 

19 

39 

461.34 

7119 

0.8979 

0.8901 

59 

424.17 

6546 

0.9753 

0.9719 

17 

21 

41 

460.72 

7110 

0.8973 

0.8895 

! 67 

134 

423.88 

! 6541 

0.9741 

0.9706 

18 

22 

44 

460.16! 

7101 

0.8956 

0.8878 

60 

135 

423.07 

! 6529 

0.9728 

0.9692 

19 

23 

47 

459.55 

7092 

0.8949 

! 0.8870 

68 

136 

422.75 

6524 

0.9716 

0.9678 

20 

24 

49 

458.98! 

7083 

0.8932 

1 0.8853 

61 

421.94 

j 6511 

0.9709 

0.9668 

25 

458.65 

7078 

0.8925 

0.8846 

69 

138 

421.62 

6506 

0.9704 

0.9661 

21 

51 

458.41 

7074 

0.8908 

| 0.8829 

62 

420.81 

6494 

0.9698 

0.9655 

26 

52 

458.13 

7070 

0.8900 

0.8821 

j 70 

140 

420.43 

6488 

0.9691 

0.9646 

22 

27 

54 

457.80 

7065 

0.8886 

1 0.8807 

63 

141 

419.77 

! 6478 

0.9678 

0.9631 

23 

28 

56 

457.18 

7055 

0.8875 

0 8796 

71 

142 

419.25 

6470 

0.9665 

0.9617 

24 

29 

58 

456.57 

7046 

0.8863 

! 0.8784 

64 

143 

418.68 

6461 

0.9652 

0.9603 

25  i 

30 

60 

455.95 

7036 

0.8850 

0.8771 

72 

144 

418.07 

1 6452 

0.9643 

0.9594 

31 

62 

455.53 

7030 

0.8840 

1 0.8761 

65 

145 

417.60 

6444 

0.9638 

0.9590 

26 

63 

455.30 

7026 

0.8825 

j 0.8746 

73 

146 

416.88 

6433 

0.9631 

0.9582 

32 j 

64 

454.96 

7021 

0.8816 

0.8736 

66 

416.46 

6427 

0.9623 

0.9574 

27 

65 

454.58 

7015 

0.8799 

! 0.8719 

74 

148 

415.66 

6414 

0.9618 

0.9567 

33 ; 

66 

454.35 

7011 

0.8793 

0.8713 

67 

149 

415.38 

6410 

0.9609 

0.9556 

28 

34 

67 

453.93 

7005 

0.8769 

0.8689 

(is 

75 

150 

414.25 

6393 

0.9593 

0.9538 

29 

35 

70  i 

453.17 

6993 

0.8745 

0.8665 

69 

76 

152 

413.13 

6375 

0.9578 

0.9521 

30 

36 

72 

452.46 

6982 

0.8721 

0.8641 

70 

77 

154 

411.98 

6358 

0.9565 

0.9507 

37 

451.84 

6973 

0.8696 

0.8616 

71 

78 

410.7!) 

6339 

0.9560 

0.9500 

31 

74 

451.61 

6969 

0.8672 

0.8591 

72 

158 

409.66 

6322 

0.9550 

0.9489 

38 

76 

451.14 

6962 

0.8664 

0.8583 

79 

409.28 

6316 

0.9544 

0.9482 

32 

77 

450.86 

6958 

0.8649 

0.8568 

73 

159 

408.57 

6305 

0.9535 

0.9473 

39 

78 

450.43 

6951 

0.8639 

0.8558 

80 

1 160 

408.10 

6298 

0.9528 

0.9465 

33 

79 

450.09 

6946 

0.8625 

0.8544 

74 

407.44 

6288 

0.9519 

0.9456 

40 

80 

449.67 

6939 

0.861 1 

0.8530 

81 

162 

406.78 

6277 

0.9511 

0.9446 

34 

81 

449.29 

6933 

0.8603 

! 0.8522 

' 75 

163 

406.40 

6272 

0.9503 

! 0.9438 

41 

82 

448.91 

6928 

0.8581 

0.8500 

76 

82 

164 

405.36 

6255 

0.9490 

i 0.9424 

35 

42 

84 

448.30 

6918 

0.8557 

0.8476 

77 

| 83 

404.22 

6238 

0.9470 

! 0.9402 

36 

, 43 

86 

447.36 

6904 

0.8533 

0.8452 

78 

> 

403.09 

6220 

0.9452 

0.9382 

37 

44 

88 

446.51 

6890 

0.8526 

0.8444 

84 

168 

402.77 

6215 

0.9434 

j 0.9363 

38 

45 

90 

445.66 

6877 

0.8508  i 

0.8426  ' 

79 

169 

401.92 

6202 

0.9416 

0.9343 

39 

46 

92 

444.81 

6864 

0.8496 

0.8414 

85 

401.35 

6194 

0-9396 

! 0.9323 

40 

47 

94 

443.86 

6850 

0.8483 

0.8401 

80 

171 

400.73 

6184 

0.9381 

! 0.9307 

48 

96 

443.15 

6839 

0.8466 

0.8384 

86 

172 

399.93 

6172 

0.9376 

0.9302 

41 

442.92 

| 6835 

0.8459  i 

0.8377 

81 

! 399.60 

6167 

0.9362 

; 0.9288 

49 

98 

442.25 

! 6825 

0.8434 

0.8352 

82 

87 

174 

1 398.42 

6148 

0.9356 

0.9280 

42 

441.97 

6820 

0.8408 

0.8326 

83 

88 

397.19 

6129 

0.9343 

0.9267 

50 

100 

441.35 

! 6811 

0.8382 

0.8300  | 

84 

! 395.96 

6110 

0.9335 

0.9259 

43 

101 

440.98 

! 6805 

0.8373 

0.8291 

89 

178 

395.53 

6104 

0.9323 

0.9246 

i 51 

102 

440.42 

6796 

0.8357 

0.8275 

85  j 

179  i 

394.78 

6092 

152 


ALCOHOL . 


Specific  Gravity. 
(Pure  water  at 
15jj°  C.  = 60°  F. 
taken  as  unity.) 

Percentage. 

We  4 

1 

rht  of 
nt  at 
= 60°  F. 

Specific  Gravity 
(Pure  water  at 
I5|°  C.  = 60°  F. 
taken  as  unity.) 

Percentage. 

Weight  of 
one  pint  at 

1 5|°  C.  = 60°  F. 

By  weight. 

By  volume. 

Of  proof  spirit. 
(U.  S.  Revenue.! 

1 

one  p 
15f°  C. 

J By  weight. 

By  volume. 

Of  proof  spirit. 
(U.  S.  Revenue.) 

At 

15f°  C. 
= 60°  F. 

At 

25°  C.  = 
77°  F. 

In 

Grms. 

In 

Grs. 

At 

1 15|°C. 
j = 60°  F. 

At 

25°  C.  = 
77°  F. 

In 

Grms. 

In 

Grs. 

0.8340 

0.8258 

90  ! 

180 

393.98 

6080 

0.8125 

0.8044 

96 

1 

i 383.82! 

5923 

0.8331 

0.8249 

86 

393.55 

6073 

0.8118 

0.8037 

94 

J 192 

! 383.49| 

5918 

0.8305 

0.8223 

87 

91 

182 

392.33 

6054 

0.8089 

0.8008 

95 

1 

! 382.12! 

5897 

0.8279 

0.8197  i 

88 

391.09 

6035 

0.8084 

0.8003 

97 

194 

! 381.88! 

5893 

0.8272 

0.8191  | 

92 

184 

390.76 

6030 

0.8061 

0.7980 

96 

! 195 

! 380.79 

5876 

0.8254 

0.8173 

89 

185 

389.91 

6017 

0.8041 

0.7960 

98 

196 

I 379.85 

5S62 

0.8237 

0.8156 

93 

186 

389.11 

6005 

0.8031 

0.7950 

97 

j 

; 379.38 

5855 

0.8228 

0.8147 

90 

388.69 

5998 

0.8001 

0.7920 

98 

! 377.96 

! 5833 

0.8199 

0.8118  I 

91 

94 

188 

387.32 

5977 

0.7995 

0.7914 

99 

! 377.68 

5828 

0.8172 

0.8091  | 

92 

386.04 

5957 

0.7969 

0.7888 

99 

199 

376.45 

5809 

0.8164 

0.8083 

95 

190 

385.66 

5951 

! 0.7946 

0.7865 

100 

! 200 

375.37 

5793 

0.8145 

0.8064  | 

93 

384.77 

5938 

I 0.7938 

0.7858 

100 

! 374.98 

5787 

and  ether  it  unites  in  all  proportions  without  becoming  turbid.  It  is  entirely  volatilized 
by  heat,  is  readily  inflammable,  and  burns  with  a non-luminous  blue  flame  and  without 
smoke,  yielding  carbon  dioxide  and  water.  Commercial  absolute  alcohol  generally  con- 
tains a minute  quantity  of  water,  to  detect  which  Debrunner  (1879)  proposed  crystal- 
lized potassium  permanganate,  which  he  found  to  be  totally  insoluble  in  anhydrous  alco- 
hol, but  to  impart  a red  tinge  to  it  in  the  presence  of  .05  per  cent,  of  water.  Ethylic 
alcohol,  Br .,  should  have  the  spec.  grav.  0.797  to  0.800. 

2.  Absolute  alcohol,  U.  S.,  and  Deodorized  alcohol,  U.  S.,  differ  from  each 
other  chiefly  in  the  amount  of  water  present,  the  former  having  a specific  gravity  not 
higher  than  0.797  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  and  containing  not  more  than  1 per  cent,  by 
weight  of  water,  while  the  latter  has  a specific  gravity  of  about  0.816  at  15°  C.  (59° 
F.),  and  contains  about  7.5  per  cent,  by  weight  of  water. 

3.  Alcohol  of  the  present  Pharmacopoeia  is  the  Stronger  alcohol  of  the  Pharmaco- 
poeia of  1870.  It  has  all  the  properties  of  absolute  alcohol  except  the  specific  gravity, 
which  is  .820  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  and  .812  at  25°  C.  (77°  F.),  and  it  contains  9 per  cent, 
by  weight  of  water,  the  presence  of  which  is  shown  by  the  tests  mentioned  above. 
Castor  oil  is  freely  soluble  in  it,  but  most  of  the  other  fixed  oils  dissolve  only  to  a lim- 
ited extent.  It  boils  at  78.2°  C.  (172.4°  F.). 

Alcohol,  Br .,  has  the  density  0.838,  and  dissolves  a smaller  quantity  of  castor  oil,  oil 
of  turpentine,  various  resins,  and  other  compounds  than  the  preceding. 

For  use  in  the  arts  and  for  various  laboratory  purposes  methylated  spirit  is  not  subject 
to  taxation  in  Great  Britain.  It  is  a mixture  of  90  per  cent,  of  alcohol  and  10  per  cent,  of 
wood-spirit  or  methylic  alcohol,  which  addition  renders  it  unfit  for  internal  administration. 

4.  Diluted  alcohol  of  the  different  Pharmacopoeias  varies  in  density  between  0.892 
( P 6r.),  .920  (i?r.,),  and  0.938  (Z7.  Si).  Its  solvent  powers  for  iodine,  most  of  the  alka- 
loids, the  volatile  oils,  resins,  and  fixed  oils  are  inferior  to  those  of  alcohol.  Its  free- 
dom from  impurities  is  ascertained  in  the  same  manner  as  for  a stronger  spirit ; its  boil- 
ing-point is  82°  C.  (179.6°  F.). 

The  French  Codex  gives  for  every  preparation  the  volumetric  strength  of  the  alcohol 
to  be  employed. 

Composition. — Alcohol  has  the  empirical  formula  C2H60,  and  is  the  hydroxide  of 
the  univalent  radical  ethyl , C2H5 ; its  rational  formula  is  therefore  C2H5OH.  It  is  the 
most  common,  and  may  be  regarded  as  the  type  of  a homologous  series  of  alcohols  which 
are  distinguished  by  prefixing  the  name  of  the  radical  contained  in  them  ; hence,  ethylic 
or  ethyl  alcohol  for  the  alcohol  under  consideration.  Under  the  influence  of  oxidizing 
agents  the  alcohols  first  part  with  2 atoms  of  hydrogen,  being  converted  into  aldehydes , 
and  by  combining  afterward  with  1 atom  of  oxygen  are  converted  into  a monobasic  acid 
— in  this  case  acetic  acid.  The  ethers  derived  from  these  alcohols  contain  1 molecule 
of  the  radical  in  place  of  the  single  atom  of  hydrogen  in  the  above  formula;  the  follow- 
ing will  explain  this  relation  : 

Ethyl.  Ethyl  oxide  (ether).  Ethylhydroxide  (alcohol).  Aldehyde.  Acid  (acetic). 

C2H5  (C2H5)20  c2h5oh  c2h4o  c,h4o2. 


ALCOHOL. 


153 


Tests. — The  purity  of  the  different  official  alcohols  is  determined  by  their  odor, 
specific  gravity,  miscibility  with  water,  complete  volatility,  neutral  reaction,  and  their 
behavior  to  silver  nitrate.  If  a portion  of  at  least  50  Cc.  be  evaporated  to  dryness  in  a 
glass  vessel,  no  residue  or  color  should  appear.  If  mixed  with  one-third  of  its  volume  of 
water,  a piece  of  blotting-paper,  on  being  wet  with  the  mixture,  after  the  vapor  of  alco- 
hol has  wholly  disappeared,  should  give  no  irritating  or  foreign  odor  (fusel  oil).  And  if 
a portion  be  evaporated  to  one-fifth  its  volume,  the  residue  should  not  turn  reddish  upon 
the  addition  of  an  equal  volume  of  sulphuric  acid  (amyl  alcohol).  When  treated  in  a 
test-tube  with  one-third  its  volume  of  solution  of  potassa  there  should  not  be  an  immediate 
darkening  of  the  liquid  (methyl  alcohol,  aldehyde,  and  oak  tannin).  If  20  Cc.  are 
shaken  in  a glass-stoppered  vial,  previously  well  rinsed  with  the  same  alcohol,  with  1 
Cc.  of  test-solution  of  silver  nitrate,  the  mixture  should  not  be  rendered  more  than 
faintly  opalescent  during  six  hours’  exposure  to  diffused  sunlight  (absence  of  more  than 
traces  of  foreign  organic  matters,  fusel  oil,  etc.) — U.  S. 

Potassium  permanganate  is  also  readily  decolorized  by  aldehyde  and  many  other 
organic  compounds.  Fusel  oil  is  readily  detected  by  adding  10  drops  of  potassa  solution 
to  50  Gm.  of  the  alcohol,  evaporating  in  a water-bath  to  about  5 Gm.,  and  acidulating 
with  sulphuric  acid,  when  the  odor  of  fusel  oil  will  be  plainly  observed.  Marquardt 
(1882)  proposed  to  dilute  the  alcohol  to  about  .980,  agitate  with  pure  chloroform,  and 
evaporate  the  chloroformic  solution  spontaneously,  when  the  residue,  treated  with  oxi- 
dizing agents,  will  give  the  odor  of  valerianic  acid ; by  combining  this  with  baryta  the 
fusel  oil  may  be  determined  quantitatively. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses  and  Preparation. — Alcohol  is  employed  on  account 
of  its  solvent  properties  in  the  manufacture  of  alkaloids  and  other  proximate  principles, 
of  resins,  numerous  extracts,  some  plasters  and  chemicals,  and  is  a permanent  ingredient 
of  all  tinctures,  spirits,  most  fluid  extracts,  some  mixtures,  liniments,  solutions,  a few 
infusions,  syrups,  wines,  etc. 

Action  and  Uses. — Experiments  and  observations  made  to  determine  the  mode  of 
action  of  alcohol  in  the  economy  have  too  generally  referred  to  excessive  doses  rather 
than  to  such  as  are  employed  in  dietetics  and  in  medicine.  Hence  a dispute  has  arisen 
whether  alcohol  raises  or  depresses  the  animal  temperature,  when  it  is  of  daily  experience 
that  moderate  doses  augment  the  heat  and  excessive  doses  diminish  it.  In  febrile 
disease  it  is  quite  possible  that  the  dose  which  in  health  would  have  been  excessive,  and 
even  destructive  of  life,  may,  by  limiting  heat-production,  tend  to  preserve  the  tissues 
upon  which  life  depends.  If,  as  is  altogether  probable,  this  effect  is  due  to  a power  in  alco- 
hol of  stimulating  the  exhausted  nervous  system,  and  thereby  exciting  the  distended 
capillary  blood-vessels  to  contract,  it  is  evident  that  less  blood  will  reach  the  tissues,  that 
less  heat  will  be  developed,  and  less  waste  of  tissue  result.  This  diminished  waste  is 
represented  by  the  smaller  amount  of  carbonic  acid  exhaled  from  the  lungs  and  of  urea 
excreted  by  the  kidneys.  Simanowsky  has  shown  experimentally  that  alcohol  diminishes 
tissue-waste  at  least  one-half  ( Centralbl.  f d.  g.  Therap .,  ii.  232)  and  Bodliinder  that  it 
restrains  perspiration  due  to  debility  (Zeitsch.  f.  Min  Med.,  xiii.  402).  These  conclusions 
have  been  abundantly  confirmed  by  Mohilausky  (Amer.  Jour.  Phar .,  lxi.  622),  and  Reichert 
(Therap.  Gaz .,  xiv.  73;  University  Med.  Mag.,  ii.  638).  The  special  effect  of  alcohol  in 
a given  case  depends  upon  its  dose  and  upon  the  time  during  which  it  has  been  ope- 
rating. The  primary  effect  may  be  stimulating,  and  be  indicated  by  an  increased  activity 
of  cerebration ; it  corresponds  to  the  turgescence  and  throbbing  noted  by  Hr.  M.  P. 
Jacobi  in  her  experiments  in  a case  of  exposed  brain  ; but  the  secondary  effect  is  the 
very  opposite  of  this,  and  is  accompanied  by  passive  venous  congestion.  It  is  probable 
that  alcohol  reduces  febrile  temperature  partly  by  lessening  the  oxidizing  power  of  the  red 
corpuscles.  The  use  of  alcohol  in  every  age  and  by  every  nation  in  the  world  demon- 
strates that  it  satisfies  a natural  instinct,  that  it  literally  refreshes  the  system  exhausted 
by  physcial  or  mental  labor,  and  that  it  not  only  quickens  the  appetite  for  food  and  aids 
in  its  digestion,  but  that  it  spares  the  digestive  organs  by  limiting  the  amount  of  solid 
food  which  would  otherwise  be  required,  while  it  relieves  pain  and  disposes  to  sleep.  But 
in  accomplishing  this  salutary  end  it  does  not  act  as  a mere  condiment.  It  is  also  food — 
in  this  sense  at  least,  that  it  offers  itself  in  the  blood  as  a substitute  for  the  tissues  which 
would  otherwise  be  destroyed.  “ Alcohol,”  says  Moleschott,  “is  the  savings  bank  of  the 
tissues.  He  who  eats  little  and  drinks  alcohol  in  moderation  retains  as  much  in  his  blood 
and  tissues  as  he  who  eats  more  and  drinks  no  alcohol.”  It  is  certain  that  of  any 
amount  of  alcohol  ingested,  not  in  excess  of  what  the  system  requires,  only  a minute 
fraction  can  be  recovered  from  any  of  the  secretions ; the  remainder  undergoes  meta- 


154 


ALCOHOL. 


morphosis  and  is  eliminated  in  a new  form.  The  notion  that  alcohol  is  unassimilable, 
and  is  chiefly  eliminated  through  the  lungs,  rested  upon  the  familiar  fact  that  all  alcoholic 
beverages  contain  ethereal  elements  which  are  so  eliminated,  and  thus  infect  the  breath. 
But  it  results  from  the  careful  observations  and  experiments  of  Anstie,  Binz,  and  others 
that  alcohol  is  not  exhaled  by  the  lungs  and  skin  or  excreted  with  the  urine  unless  the 
body  be  supersaturated  with  it.  In  that  case  it  may  be  found  in  the  blood,  in  exhaled 
serum,  etc.  These  views  which  we  have  from  time  to  time  expressed  have  been  amply 
confirmed  by  investigation  and  experience  ( e . g.  Warren,  Boston  Jour .,  July,  1887, 
p.  1 and  p.  25).  According  to  some  experimenters,  a portion  of  alcohol  in  the  blood 
is  transformed  into  acetic  acid,  which  forms  acetates  that  are  subsequently  decom- 
posed into  water  and  carbonic  acid.  The  doctrine  that  alcohol  is  food  is  probably  true, 
not  only  indirectly  by  its  preventing  tissue-waste,  but  in  the  more  literal  sense  of  its 
favoring  the  formation  of  fatty  products,  especially  by  increasing  the  amount  of  adipose 
tissue,  and  in  a morbid  sense  by  tending  to  produce  fatty  liver  and  kidney,  gall-stones, 
and  atheroma.  This,  in  fact,  is  the  only  sense  in  which  itself  is  food ; it  does  not  add  a 
single  fibre  to  muscle  nor  a single  cell  to  the  brain  and  nerve-centres.  The  practical 
value  of  alcohol  as  food  has  been  illustrated  by  the  experience  of  Arctic  explorers.  All 
of  these  conclusions  have  been  so  amply  confirmed  by  a continuous  succession  of  observers 
and  experimenters  as  to  leave  no  doubt  of  their  correctness. 

In  the  form  of  wine  or  distilled  spirits  alcohol  is  the  universal  and  familiar  remedy  for 
debility  of  every  kind,  whether  it  be  due  to  exhaustion  produced  by  shock , fatigue , or 
prolonged  sickness , or  shown  by  syncope  arising  from  a nervously  feeble  or  an  exhausted 
heart,  to  wasting  chronic  disease,  or  to  the  tissue-destruction  of  acute  febrile  affections. 
In  typhus  fever  and  typhoid  fever,  and  in  the  typhoid  state  of  numerous  diseases,  including 
pyaemia,  pneumonia , erysipelas,  etc.,  the  usefulness  and  appropriateness  of  the  medicine 
are  demonstrated,  not  only  by  its  diminishing  the  frequency  and  increasing  the  strength 
of  the  pulse,  and  by  the  decline  of  the  symptoms  which  denote  capillary  stasis,  but  also 
by  the  very  large  quantities  of  it  which  may  be  taken  without  producing  intoxicating 
effects.  This  tolerance  may  be  added  to  the  facts  already  stated  to  confirm  the  doctrine  that 
alcohol  is  consumed  in  the  body  and  subserves  some  of  the  purposes  of  food  (Bodl'ander, 
Zeitsch.  f.  klin.  Med.,  xi.  548).  The  special  conditions  which  call  for  the  use  of  alcohol, 
and  without  which,  or  some  of  which,  it  is  apt  to  be  injurious  rather  than  useful,  are  the 
following : constitutional  debility , and  especially  that  which  is  due  to  advanced  life  ; a 
compressible,  slow,  or  irregular  pulse,  with  a feeble  impulse  and  first  sound  of  the  heart ; 
a tendency  to  syncope ; a sluggish  capillary  circulation  and  a dry  tongue;  wandering 
delirium,  febrile  stupor,  tremor , or  subsultus,  and  involuntary  dejections.  In  the  fevers  above 
mentioned  there  are  both  loss  of  power  and  nervous  disorders  (adynamia  and  ataxia)  ; in 
some  other  diseases  there  is  adynamia  alone,  or,  as  it  is  more  specifically  termed,  asthenia — 
diseases  in  which  the  spinal  nervous  system  appears  exhausted,  and  debility  and  even 
paralysis  of  the  muscles,  both  voluntary  and  involuntary,  may  occur.  These  accidents 
happen  in  the  fevers  already  mentioned,  and  also,  but  less  frequently,  in  the  eruptive  fevers, 
in  relapsing  fever,  and  in  diphthey'ia , in  all  of  which  the  first  threatening  of  their 
approach  should  be  met  with  alcoholic  and  other  stimulants.  It  should  always,  in  acute 
febrile  disease,  be  administered  in  divided  doses  and  its  effects  upon  the  symptoms  noted. 
If  it  moderate  such  as  have  been  enumerated,  it  may  be  regarded  as  useful,  and  may  be 
continued  in  doses  varied  by  its  effects.  The  essential  point  in  its  administration  is  that 
it  shall  never  be  allowed  to  produce  intoxication,  even  by  abnormally  exciting,  and  still 
less  by  stupefying.  It  is  absolutely  contraindicated  in  febrile  diseases  with  scanty  and 
albuminous  urine  of  low  specific  gravity.  Alcohol  in  any  of  its  forms  is  seldom  necessary 
in  diseases  affecting  children,  and  then  only  in  very  small  quantities  and  as  a transient 
stimulant.  In  old  age,  on  the  other  hand,  its  utility  is  very  great,  and,  indeed,  it  is  often 
indispensable.  Of  the  several  forms  of  alcohol  appropriate  in  low  and  asthenic  diseases, 
the  best  is  usually  the  one  to  which  (if  to  any)  the  patient  is  accustomed.  In  general, 
sound  wine  is  preferable  to  distilled  liquors,  and,  of  the  latter,  brandy,  when  pure,  is  far 
better  than  whiskey.  Sparkling  are  superior  to  still  wines  for  this  purpose,  and  white  to  red 
wines,  except  during  convalescence.  In  these  cases  alcohol  is  to  be  used  as  a stimulant, 
and  not  for  its  alleged  antipyretic  action,  which  is  wholly  a secondary  effect. 

The  rules  just  stated  should  govern  the  use  of  alcohol  in  pulmonary  consumption.  If 
it  improves  digestion,  increases  the  weight  and  strength,  reduces  the  fever,  and  lessens  the 
cough,  expectoration,  and  sweating,  it  may  be  regarded  as  exerting  its  most  favorable 
influences.  But,  unfortunately,  these  salutary  effects  cannot  be  confidently  anticipated ; 
too  often  it  increases  fever,  diminishes  appetite,  and  impairs  digestion.  Two  conditions 


ALCOHOL. 


155 


appear  to  be  essential  to  its  utility : first,  that  the  phthisis  shall  be  primary  and  chronic, 
and  not  the  consequence  of  a previous  pleurisy  or  lobar  pneumonia  ; and  secondly,  that 
the  patient  shall  use  muscular  exercise  in  the  open  air  proportioned  to  his  strength. 
Under  these  circumstances  it  is  the  best  adjuvant  of  cod-liver  oil,  which,  indeed,  so  far  as 
alcohol  is  a nutrient,  it  resembles  in  its  mode  of  action.  In  delirium  tremens  alcohol  in 
the  form  of  malt  liquor,  wine,  or  distilled  liquor  is  a direct  antidote  to  this  peculiar  effect 
of  intemperance.  As  the  morning  dram  steadies  the  tremulous  hand  and  tottering  gait 
of  the  sot,  so  alcohol  reduces  to  co-ordination  the  distracted  ideas,  perceptions,  and  move- 
ments of  the  victim  of  delirium  tremens ; and  the  more  certainly,  speedily,  and  with  a 
smaller  dose  in  proportion  as  it  is  aided  in  its  operation  by  physical  fatigue  produced  by 
walking.  It  must  not  be  forgotten  that  this  delirium  is  usually  the  result  of  an  abrupt 
cessation  of  the  habit  of  drinking,  either  by  the  stomach  giving  out  or  by  some  suddenly 
depressing  influence,  such  as  a surgical  injury.  In  poisoning  by  venomous  serpents  and 
by  narcotics  alcohol  is  often  used  to  sustain  life  until  the  elimination  of  the  poison  has 
been  accomplished.  In  some  cases  of  the  former  kind  very  large  doses  of  alcohol  have 
been  tolerated — whether  owing  to  the  poison  itself  or  to  the  patient’s  excitement  may  be 
questioned.  Alcohol  is  not  a direct  antidote  to  serpent  poison.  The  full  effects  of  this 
liquid  have  proved  sufficient  for  the  cure  of  traumatic  tetanus ; its  slightly  stimulant 
action,  on  the  other  hand,  has  been  resorted  to  for  preventing  epileptiform  attacks,  and  by 
the  same  mechanism  doubtless  it  prevents,  and  even  arrests,  reflex  convulsions , such  as 
occur  during  dentition , the  vomiting  of  pregnancy,  and  the  paroxysms  of  neuralgia , when 
thus  admisistered  in  small  doses. 

As  an  external  application  alcohol,  either  in  its  natural  or  its  distilled  form,  has  always 
been  used  as  a dressing  for  wounds:  The  ancient  use  of  oil  and  wine  for  this  purpose  is 

well  known.  In  the  seventeenth  and  eighteenth  centuries  alcohol  was  applied  as  a dress- 
ing to  incised  and  other  clean  wounds,  and  also  to  those  attacked  with  gangrene.  Recent 
observations  attest  its  excellence  in  arresting  haemorrhage,  coagulating  the  albumen  of 
exuded  plasma,  preventing  the  putrefaction  of  discharges,  and  promoting  cicatrization. 

In  1870,  Dr.  Blair,  a Scottish  physician,  published  an  account  of  the  use  of  strong 
whiskey  as  a popular  dressing  for  wounds  among  his  countrymen,  and  of  his  having  then 
recently  seen  it  employed  in  the  Parisian  hospitals  ( Glasgow  Med.  Jour.,  ii.  204).  From 
1872,  Perrin  employed  alcoholic  dressings,  and  proclaimed  their  superiority  in  compound 
and  comminuted  fractures,  especially  when  complicated  with  contusion  of  the  soft  parts  ; 
also  in  wounds  of  whatever  kind  which  tended  to  putrefaction,  and  he  held  them  to  be  more 
efficient,  as  well  as  more  convenient,  than  carbolic-acid  dressings.  He  found  that  alcohol 
protected  such  injuries  from  gangrene,  excessive  suppuration,  and  usually  from  erysip- 
elas, while  they  rapidly  acquired  a healthy  aspect  and  the  traumatic  fever  accompanying 
them  was  slight.  He  gave  the  preference  to  alcohol  over  all  other  applications  as  a 
dressing  for  surgical  wounds,  including  amputations  (Bull,  de  Therap .,  xcvi.  308).  In 
1874,  and  again  in  1880  and  in  1882,  the  whiskey  dressing  was  highly  recommended  by 
Suesserott  ( Phila . Med.  Times , ii.  774;  xi.  138;  xii.  872);  and  in  1882,  Gosselin  used 
diluted  alcohol  to  promote  the  cure  of  abscesses.  Having  been  opened  by  a small  incis- 
ion, they  were  evacuated  as  far  as  possible,  and  washed  out  with  alcohol,  and  also  dressed 
with  it.  The  purulent  discharge  rapidly  became  serous,  the  abscess  contracted,  and 
healed  more  rapidly  than  by  any  other  method  ( Times  and  Gaz .,  March,  1882,  p.  311). 
Plessing  injected  with  good  results  a superficial  aneurism  of  the  occipital  artery.  He 
used  at  first  a 30  per  cent.,  and  afterward  a 75  per  cent.,  dilution  ( Therap.  Gaz.,  xi. 
103).  Holgate  employed  the  same  method  of  treating  vascular  nsevus  (Med.  Record, 
xxxvi.  346).  In  dressing  wounds,  after  removing  foreign  substances  and  clotted  blood, 
the  part  is  bathed  with  the  alcoholic  liquid  and  covered  with  compresses  saturated  with 
the  same  and  protected  by  some  impermeable  covering.  It  should  be  kept  moist  with 
the  liquor  for  several  days,  during  which  it  should,  if  possible,  remain  undisturbed. 
Afterward  the  dressing  may  be  changed  daily  or  less  frequently,  according  to  circum- 
stances. It  is  an  efficient  dressing  for  atonic  ulcers  and  gangrenous  lesions,  tends  to  pre- 
vent and  heal  fissure  of  the  nipples  and  excoriation  of  the  feet,  by  walking,  and  is  the  best 
of  all  applications  to  recent  bruises  and  sprains  and  superficial  inflammations,  and  as  a 
vehicle  for  other  agents  fitted  for  this  purpose  and  for  stimulating  paralyzed  limbs. 
Alcohol  has  been  used  to  remove  polypi  of  the  nostrils  and  of  the  middle  and  external 
ear.  It  does  so  by  abstracting  the  water  of  which  they  largely  consist  and  coagulating 
their  albumen.  In  the  case  of  the  ear  it  is  recommended  that  the  auditory  canal  should 
be  filled  with  the  liquid  two  or  three  times  a day,  allowing  it  to  remain  in  place  from  five 
to  fifteen  minutes  ; but  to  this  expedient  it  is  objected  that  the  tympanum  becomes  perrna- 


156 


ALCOHOL  AMYLICUM. 


nently  dry  and  the  hearing  impaired;  It  has  been  injected  into  angiomatous  and  other  soft 
tumors  to  cure  them  by  hardening  them  ( Yirch . Arch.,  lxxxv.  172);  hypodermic  injec- 
tions of  alcohol  have  been  used  to  cure  varicocele.  The  anaesthetic  power  of  alcohol  has 
long  been  known,  as  exhibited  by  the  greater  or  less  insensibility  of  intoxicated  persons 
who  meet  with  accident  and  of  women  who  unconsciously  give  birth  to  children  while 
drunk.  It  was  even  employed  to  diminish  the  shock  of  surgical  operations  and  to  facilitate 
the  reduction  of  dislocations.  It  was  formerly  the  custom  before  operations  to  administer 
a draught  of  alcohol  and  laudanum  ; and  even  since  the  introduction  of  anaesthetics  it  has 
often  been  found  that  their  depressing  effects  are  in  this  manner  prevented,  while  their 
soporific  action  is  more  decided  and  occurs  more  promptly  (Mason,  Jour,  of  Inebriety,  Oct. 
1882). 

In  the  treatment  of  alcoholic  poisoning  the  stomach  should  first  be  emptied  by  means 
of  a mustard  emetic,  administered  by  the  stomach-pump  if  necessary.  Cold  water  may 
be  dashed  against  the  breast  and  spine  and  applied  to  the  head,  while  various  mechanical 
expedients  are  employed  to  keep  the  patient  awake.  In  some  cases,  even  of  dead-drunk- 
enness, a few  drops  of  water  of  ammonia  instilled  into  the  throat  or  held  under  the 
patient’s  nostrils  will  suffice  to  dissipate  the  stupor. 

ALCOHOL  AMYLICUM,  ^.-Amyl  Alcohol. 

Fusel  oil,  Primary  amyl  alcohol , Pentyl  alcohol,  E. ; Alcool  amylique,  Huile  de  grain, 
Fr. ; Amyl-alkohol,  Fuselol , Gr. ; Alcool  isoamilico,  F.  It. 

Formula  C5HuOH.  Molecular  weight  87.81. 

A peculiar  alcohol  obtained  from  fermented  grain  or  potatoes  by  continuing  the  process 
of  distillation  after  the  ordinary  spirit  has  ceased  to  come  over. 

Preparation. — During  the  alcoholic  fermentation  of  grain  and  potatoes  some  amylic 
alcohol  is  produced,  the  great  bulk  of  which  passes  over  with  the  last  portions  of  the 
first  distillation,  which  are  milky,  and  contain  besides  amylic  some  ethylic  alcohol  and 
water,  and  variable  quantities  of  propyl  alcohol,  isobutyl  alcohol,  and  other  compounds, 
differing  with  the  source  of  the  fusel  oil.  The  portion  remaining  in  solution  with  the 
distilled  spirit  is  obtained  in  purifying  the  latter,  either  by  the  process  of  distillation  or 
leaching.  (See  Alcohol.)  Commercial  amylic  alcohol  contains  variable  quantities 
(between  20  and  30  per  cent.)  of  ordinary  (ethylic)  alcohol,  of  which  it  cannot  readily 
be  completely  deprived  by  fractional  distillation  and  washing  with  water.  Distillation 
over  calcium  chloride,  after  previous  washing  with  water,  removes  most  of  this  alcohol, 
a portion  of  which  will,  however,  again  pass  over  with  the  distillate.  An  effectual  and 
economical  method  has  been  proposed  by  B.  Hirsh  (1861),  who  advises  crude  amylic 
alcohol  to  be  repeatedly  agitated  with  concentrated  aqueous  solutions  of  table-salt  until 
a diminution  of  its  volume  is  no  longer  noticed ; it  still  contains  a little  alcohol,  from 
which  it  is  freed  by  distilling  it  with  three  or  four  times  its  volume  of  water. 

Properties  and  Tests. — It  is  a colorless,  thin,  oily  liquid,  having  a penetrating 
and  oppressive  odor  and  a burning,  acrid  taste.  It  congeals  at  — 134°  C.  ( — 209°  F.), 
crystallizing  in  laminae,  and  has  no  effect  on  polarized  light  when  pure.  It  boils  at  132° 
C.  (269.6°  F.),  and  evaporates  without  leaving  any  residue.  Its  specific  gravity  is  0.818. 
It  is  very  sparingly  soluble  in  water,  to  which  it  imparts  its  odor  and  taste.  It  unites  in 
all  proportions  with  alcohol,  ether,  glacial  acetic  acid,  benzene,  petroleum  benziri,  fixed 
and  volatile  oils.  It  dissolves  iodine  freely,  a little  phosphorus,  camphor,  many  resins, 
and  most  alkaloids,  yielding  the  latter  again,  on  agitation,  to  water  acidulated  with  sul- 
phuric acid.  In  contact  with  sulphuric  acid  it  acquires  a deep-red  color,  and  reacts 
violently  with  concentrated  nitric  acid.  Exposed  to  air  in  contact  with  platinum-black,  it 
is  slowly  oxidized,  yielding  valerianic  acid.  It  takes  fire  with  difficulty  unless  heated  to 
about  55°  C.  (131°  F.),  when  it  burns  with  a bright  flame.  As  met  with  in  commerce, 
it  contains  variable  quantities,  sometimes  12  per  cent.,  of  active  amyl  alcohol,  which  has 
the  same  elementary  composition,  but  turns  polarized  light  to  the  left  and  boils  at  127° 
C.  (260.6°  F.)  ; its  barium  amyl  sulphate  is  much  more  soluble  in  water  than  the  corre- 
sponding salt  obtained  from  inactive  amyl  alcohol.  In  addition  to  this,  five  other  amyl 
alcohols  have  been  prepared  artificially,  varying  in  their  boiling-points  between  97°  and 
137°  C.  (206.6°  and  278.6°  F.). 

The  purity  of  amyl  alcohol  is  ascertained  by  its  specific  gravity,  its  boiling-point,  its 
volatility  without  residue,  and  by  its  not  diminishing  in  volume  when  agitated  with  an 
equal  bulk  of  solution  of  calcium  or  SQdium  chloride. 

Composition. — Amyl  aloohol  is  amyl  hydroxide , C5HnOH,  and  yields  a series  of 


ALCOHOL  METHYLICUM. 


157 


compounds  homologous  with  those  of  ethyl  alcohol — namely,  amyl  ether,  (C5Hn)20, 
amyl  aldehyde,  or  valer-aldehyde  C5HI0O,  and  valerianic  acid,  C5Hi0O2- 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Amyl  alcohol  is  the  source  of  valerianic  acid  and  of 
various  compound  ethers  (fruit-essences),  and  may  be  used  as  a solvent  in  the  manufac- 
ture of  alkaloids  and  other  proximate  principles. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  adulteration  of  alcoholic  drinks  with  fusel  oil  has  been 
supposed  to  explain  the  rapid  and  peculiar  intoxication  they  sometimes  produce  and  the 
dyspeptic  and  nervous  disorders  which  follow  their  habitual  use.  It  is  certain  that  the 
oil  itself  will  cause,  even  in  small  doses,  tension  and  pain  in  the  head,  and  in  large  doses 
insensibility  or  a profound  and  death-like  sleep.  A case  is  on  record  ( Lancet , Dec.  1889, 
p.  1225)  in  which  about  four  ounces  of  the  oil  were  swallowed.  The  respiration  ceased, 
but  the  heart  continued  to  beat.  Life  was  revived  by  stimulants,  including  hypodermic 
injections  of  ether.  The  breath,  etc.  exhaled  a strong  fruity  odor.  In  small  doses,  on 
the  other  hand,  it  acts  as  a direct  nervous  stimulant,  and  has  been  employed  for  the  pur- 
pose of  controlling  the  nervous  weakness  and  irritability  to  which  confirmed  drunkards 
are  subject.  We  have  known  it  to  be  habitually  prescribed  by  skilful  physicians  for  the 
relief,  apparently,  of  some  of  the  symptoms  of  chronic  phthisis , but  without  obvious 
benefit. 


ALCOHOL  METHYLICUM.-Methyl  Alcohol. 

Spiritus  pyroxylicus  rectificatus. — Pyroligneous  ( ' Pyroxylic ) spirit  or  alcohol ; Wood 
naphtha , E.  ; Alcool  methylique , Alcool  formique , Alcool  de  hois , Esprit  de  hois , Esprit 
pyroligneux , Fr. ; Holzgeist , Methylalcohol , G\ 

Formula  CH3OH.  Molecular  weight  31.93. 

Preparation. — Methyl  alcohol  was  first  noticed  by  Boyle  (1661)  ; its  difference  from 
ordinary  alcohol  was  observed  by  P.  Taylor  (1812),  but  it  was  not  correctly  characterized 
until  investigated  by  Dumas  and  Peligot  (1834).  The  aqueous  portion  of  the  distillate 
resulting  from  the  destructive  distillation  of  wood  contains  about  1 per  cent.,  together 
with  acetic  acid,  acetone,  aldehyde,  allyl  alcohol,  empyreumatic  oils,  and  other  com- 
pounds ; on  the  addition  of  chalk,  calcium  acetate  is  produced,  and  the  portion  distilling 
below  the  boiling-point  of  water  furnishes  the  crude  methyl  alcohol.  To  obtain  it  pure, 
fused  calcium  chloride  is  dissolved  in  it  to  saturation,  whereby  a crystallizable  compound, 
CaCl2.4CH40,  is  formed,  which  is  not  decomposed  by  the  heat  of  a water-bath,  but 
acetone,  lignone,  and  other  impurities  are  found  in  the  distillate.  The  residue  is  after- 
ward diluted  with  water  and  heated,  when  dilute  methyl  alcohol  passes  over,  which  is 
left  in  contact  with  burnt  lime  and  then  rectified. 

Properties. — Pure  wood-spirit  is  a colorless,  limpid  liquid,  of  a peculiar  odor, 
resembling  alcohol  and  acetic  ether,  and  of  a warm  taste.  Its  density  is  0.814  at  0°  C. 
(32°  F.),  and  0.798  at  20°  C.  (68°  F.) ; it  boils  at  about  65°  C.  (149°  F.)  ; burns  with  a 
pale-blue,  scarcely  luminous  flame ; is  soluble  in  all  proportions  in  water,  alcohol,  and 
ether  ; dissolves  volatile  oils,  fats,  many  resins,  and  particularly  calcium  chloride,  where- 
by, as  well  as  by  its  boiling-point,  it  is  readily  distinguished  from  acetone.  Crystallized 
copper  sulphate  is  insoluble  in  absolute  methyl  alcohol,  but  the  anhydrous  salt  yields  a 
blue-green  solution,  from  which,  on  the  addition  of  a small  quantity  of  water,  the  crystal- 
line salt  is  precipitated  (Klepl,  1882).  The  derivatives  corresponding  with  those  men- 
tioned under  Ethyl  Alcohol  are  methyl  ether,  (CH3)20  (see  page  132),  methaldehyde 
or  formaldehyde,  CH20,  and  formic  acid.  CH202  (see  page  53).  It  is  easily  oxidized  by 
solution  of  potassium  permanganate  in  the  cold,  while  the  color  of  the  latter  is  more 
slowly  altered  by  ethyl  alcohol.  For  determining  the  presence  of  one  or  both  of  these 
alcohols  Riche  and  Bardy  (1875)  proposed  a process  depending  upon  the  differently- 
colored  solutions  obtained  by  the  limited  oxidation  of  ethyl  and  methyl  aniline.  Berthe- 
lot  (1876)  proposed  to  mix  the  alcohol  with  twice  its  bulk  of  concentrated  sulphuric 
acid,  when  methyl  alcohol  will  yield  methylic  ether,  and  ethyl  alcohol  ethylene  gas, 
which  is  almost  insoluble  in  water  and  sulphuric  acid,  but  is  readily  absorbed  by 
bromine. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  vapors  of  methyl  alcohol,  diffused  in  the  air,  give  rise  to 
headache,  dizziness,  nausea,  and  loss  of  appetite.  It  was  at  one  time  employed  as  a 
stimulant  in  pulmonary  consumption , chronic  catarrh , dyspepsia , and  verminous  affections , 
but  is  now  entirely  disused.  It  was  given  in  doses  of  from  10  to  20  drops  several  times 
a day. 


158 


ALETRIS.— A LTSMA. 


ALETRIS  — Colic-Root. 

Starwort , Star-grass,  Blazing  star,  E.  ; Aletris  farineux,  Fr.  ; Mehlige  Aletris , G. 

The  rhizome  of  Aletris  farinosa,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Haemodoracese. 

Origin. — The  plant,  grows  in  grassy  places  and  sandy  woods  in  the  United  States, 
and  flowers  in  July  and  August.  It  has  a circular  cluster  of  lanceolate,  sessile,  radical 
leaves,  which  are  about  125  Mm.  (5  inches)  long  and  spread  star-like  upon  the  ground, 
and  from  the  centre  of  them  rises  the  nearly  naked  scape,  about  60  Gm.  (2  feet)  high, 
and  bearing  a spiked  raceme  of  whitish  flowers  having  a mealy  appearance. 

Description. — The  rhizome  is  horizontal,  about  25-88  Mm.  (lor  1J  inches)  long, 
3 Mm.  (i  inch)  thick  at  the  lower  end,  and  about  1 Cm.  (-J  inch)  at  the  upper  end, 
flattish  or  concave  on  the  upper  surface,  and  densely  tufted  with  the  fibrous  or  scaly  rem- 
nants of  the  leaves ; on  the  lower  surface  convex  and  beset  with  numerous  simple  root- 
lets 50-75  Mm.  (2  or  3 inches)  long,  the  older  ones  being  wiry  and  glossy-blackish  or 
brown,  the  recent  ones  softer  and  whitish.  The  rhizome  consists  of  four  to  six  rather 
indistinct  joints,  is  brown-gray  externally,  white  internally,  breaks  with  a mealy  fracture, 
with  protruding  scattered  wood-bundles,  is  inodorous,  and  has  an  amylaceous  afterward 
persistently  bitter  taste. 

Constituents. — The  rhizome  appears  to  be  from  tannin,  and  to  contain  starch  and 
a bitter  principle  which  is  more  freely  soluble  in  alcohol  than  in  water. 

Adulterations- — We  have  occasionally  seen  it  adulterated  with  upright  and  hori- 
zontal rhizomes  of  other  monocotyledonous  plants,  from  which,  however,  it  is  easily  dis- 
tinguished. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  humble  plant,  if  we  may  credit  the  published  accounts  of 
its  virtues,  is  at  once  tonic,  emetic,  purgative,  diuretic,  carminative,  sialagogue,  and  anti- 
rheumatic, besides  being  “ the  most  powerful  of  uterine  stimulants,”  and  a remedy  for 
“ spermatorrhoea.”  It  is  probably  little  more  than  a simple  bitter,  and  as  such  produces 
various  effects  according  to  its  dose  and  mode  of  administration — in  substance,  in  warm 
or  cold  infusion,  in  tincture,  etc.  The  infusion  is  made  with  Gm.  32  (gj)  to  a pint  of 
water,  and  may  be  given  in  doses  of  a tablespoonful.  The  average  dose  of  the  powder 
is  about  Gm.  0.60  (gr.  x). 


ALISMA. — Water  Plantain. 

Plantain  d'eau,  Pain  de  grenouilles,  Fr.  ; Froschloffel,  Wasserwegericli,  G. 

Alisma  Plantago,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Alismaceae. 

Origin. — The  plant  is  indigenous  to  Europe  and  North  America,  grows  in  swampy 
places  and  on  the  edges  of  ponds  and  rivers,  and  flowers  from  July  to  September.  The 
American  plant  is  regarded  as  a variety,  Alisma  americanum,  Gray. 

Description. — The  rhizome  consists  of  two  or  three  united  fleshy  tuberous  pieces, 
which  vary  in  shape  from  oblong  to  subglobular,  are  externally  of  a blackish  color  and 
beset  with  numerous  radicles,  internally  white  and  with  scattered  wood-bundles,  and  in  the 
fresh  state  of  a disagreeable  sharp  odor  and  taste.  The  leaves  are  on  long  petioles,  ovate 
oblong  or  lanceolate,  acute,  frequently  with  a heart-shaped  base,  five-  to  nine-nerved, 
light-green,  and  of  an  acrid  taste.  The  scape  is  about  2 feet  (60  Cm.)  high,  three-edged, 
and  bears  a loose  panicle  of  whitish  perfect  flowers,  having  six  stamens  and  numerous  pis- 
tils upon  a flattish  receptacle.  The  rhizome  and  leaves  have  been  used  medicinally. 

Constituents. — Water  plantain  contains  a butyraceous  pungent  volatile  oil,  of 
which  Zuch  (1818)  obtained  .6  per  cent.  Neljubin  found  in  it  also  an  acrid  resin. 

Action  and  Uses. — A singular  commentary  on  the  virtues  of  this  plant  may  be 
found  in  the  statement  that  it  was  once  regarded  as  an  infallible  cure  for  hydrophobia. 
Whatever  powers  it  possesses  are  probably  due  to  an  acrid  principle  which  exists  in  the 
fresh  leaves  and  is  strong  enough  to  irritate  the  skin.  It  has  been  supposed  to  be  useful 
in  calculous  renal  affections,  in  dysentery,  diarrhoea,  chorea,  and  epilepsy,  and  as  an  appli- 
cation to  recent  bruises,  swellings,  and  sores.  The  powder  of  the  leaves  may  be  prescribed 
in  doses  of  about  Gm.  4 (^j)  ; the  powder  of  the  root  has  been  used  in  half  that  quan- 
tity, and  a decoction  of  the  leaves  is  made  with  “ a handful  ” in  a pint  of  water,  and 
may  be  given  in  doses  of  a wineglassful. 


A L KEKENGI. -A  LLIUM. 


159 


ALKEKENGL— ' Winter  Cherry. 

Alkekenge , Coqueret , Fr.  ; Judenkirsche , iSchlutte,  G. ; A7&e/ienyes,  Sp. 

The  fruit  of  Physalis  Alkekengi,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Solanaceae. 

Origin. — It  is  a perennial  herb,  indigenous  to  Middle  and  Southern  Europe,  and  to 
some  extent  cultivated  and  naturalized  in  this  country  under  the  name  of  strawberry 
tomato.  It  is  more  or  less  soft-hairy,  has  a nearly  simple  stem,  broadly  ovate  and  pointed 
leaves  with  a somewhat  wedge-shaped  base,  and  bell-shaped  greenish-white  unspotted 
flowers. 

Description. — The  fruit  is  spherical,  of  the  size  of  a cherry,  scarlet-red,  shining, 
and  remains  enclosed  in  the  inflated  orange-colored  permanent  calyx.  It  is  two-celled, 
and  contains  numerous  white  flattish  ovate  seeds  attached  to  a central  placenta.  In  the 
fresh  state  the  fruit  is  very  juicy  and  has  a sweet  and  acidulous  taste  ; it  shrivels  con- 
siderably on  drying. 

Constituents. — Dessaignes  and  Chautard  (1852)  found  sugar  and  citric  acid  in  the 
berries,  and  in  the  leaves  and  calyx  an  amorphous  bitter  principle  pliysalin , C14Hi605, 
which  is  obtained  as  a whitish  powder  on  agitating  the  cold  aqueous  infusion  with  chloro- 
form, and  is  soluble  in  chloroform  and  alcohol,  but  sparingly  so  in  ether,  cold  water,  and 
diluted  acids. 

Allied  Species. — -Physalis  viscosa,  Linne,  a clammy,  pubescent  North  American  plant,  with 
ovate  or  oblong,  slightly  cordate  and  somewhat  toothed  leaves,  and  purplish-brown  flowers.  The 
fruit  is  an  orange-colored  or  reddish  berry,  remaining  in  the  inflated  calyx. 

Phys.  Pennsylvania,  Linn6.  Tt  resembles  the  preceding,  but  is  not  clammy,  the  leaves  are 
usually  entire,  the  corolla  is  veined  in  the  centre,  and  the  berry  has  a red  color. 

Phys.  peruviana,  Linne,  Ph.  pubescens,  Linne , and  Nicandra  physaloides,  Gcertner , are 
indigenous  to  South  America,  and  in  Mexico  are  known  as  tomate.  The  last-named  species  is 
occasionally  found  wild  in  the  United  States,  where  it  is  known  as  apple  of  Peru. 

Witiiania  coagulans,  Dun.,  is  indigenous  to  India,  and  is  there  often  confounded  with  alke- 
kengi. The  fruit,  or  a decoction  of  the  same,  is  used  for  coagulating  milk. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  herb  is  used  in  Europe  as  tonic,  antiperiodic,  and  depur- 
ative,  and  the  fruit  as  febrifuge  and  diuretic.  Like  many  other  bitter  plants,  this  one  is 
sometimes  successful  in  arresting  the  paroxysms  of  intermittent  fever , and  is  used  for 
that  purpose  by  the  peasantry.  The  berries  eaten  when  ripe  and  fresh,  and  when  dried 
and  used  to  prepare  a decoction,  and  also  their  expressed  juice,  are  regarded  as  having 
decided  diuretic  virtues,  and  are  frequently  employed  in  jaundice,  gravel,  dysury , retention 
of  urine,  and  dropsy.  It  is  recommended  to  give  the  fresh  berries  to  the  extent  of  several 
ounces  a day;  of  the  expressed  juice,  2 or  3 fluidounces  ; and  an  infusion  of  the  dried 
berries,  made  with  an  ounce  Gm.  32  (§j)  in  a pint  of  hot  water,  to  the  extent  of  2 or 
more  pints  a day.  The  powder  of  the  plant  is  used  in  doses  of  Gm.  4 (gj)  or  more.  The 
allied  species  appear  to  resemble  winter  cherry  in  their  qualities. 

Withania  coagulans  contains  a principle  which  possesses  strong  coagulating  powers, 
and  has  been  used  in  India  as  a substitute  for  animal  rennet  in  the  preparation  of  cheese 
(.four.  Amer.  Med  Assoc.,  ii.  346). 

ALLIUM,  U.  S. — Garlic. 

Bulbus  allii. — Ail,  Fr.  ; Knoblauch , G. 

The  bulb  of  Allium  (Porrum,  Rewhenhach ) sativum,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen, 
Med.  Plants , 280. 

Nat.  Ord. — Liliaceae. 

Origin. — All  the  plants  belonging  to  this  genus  are  bulbous,  resemble  each  other  in 
their  odor  and  taste,  and  contain  similar  if  not  identical  volatile  oils.  The  officinal  species 
is  indigenous  to  Central  Asia,  and  perhaps  also  to  the  basin  of  the  Mediterranean,  but  is 
cultivated  for  culinary  purposes  in  other  sections  of  Europe  and  North  America.  By 
cultivation  and  hybridization  several  varieties  have  been  formed,  one  of  which,  of  fre- 
quent occurrence  here,  was  proved  by  K.  P.  Thomas  (1860)  to  be  a hybrid  of  A.  sativum 
and  A.  Porrum,  Linne , which  is  distinguished  by  its  larger  bulb,  higher  stem,  and  the 
absence  of  proliferous  bulbs  from  the  flowering  heads. 

Description. — Garlic  is  a sub-globular  compound  bulb,  surrounded  by  a few  dry 
membranaceous  scales,  which  cover  the  remnant  of  the  upright  stem  and  the  5 to  8 small 
bulbs  or  cloves  arranged  in  a circle  around  its  base.  These  bulblets  are  oblong  in  outline. 


160 


ALLIUM. 


compressed  from  both  sides,  wedge-shaped  toward  the  stem,  and  rounded  upon  the  back, 
They  consist  of  a few  thick  fleshy  scales  and  a short  fleshy  axis.  Garlic  has  a peculiar 
pungent  and  disagreeable  odor  and  an  acrid,  burning  taste.  It  is  used  in  the  fresh  state 
only. 

Constituents. — Besides  the  cellular  tissue,  garlic  contains  between  50  and  60  per 
cent,  of  water,  35  per  cent,  of  mucilage,  some  albumen,  sugar,  starch,  and  about  \ per 
cent,  of  volatile  oil,  to  which  its  odor  and  taste  are  due.  In  its  crude  state  oil  of  garlic 
is  of  a dark  brown-yellow  color,  heavier  than  water,  of  a very  repulsive  taste,  and  con- 
sists of  oxide  and  sulphides  of  allyl.  The  rectified  oil  consists  mainly  of  the  sulphide, 
(C3H5)2S,  is  colorless,  lighter  than  water,  and  may  be  obtained  artificially  by  treating  an 
alcoholic  solution  of  potassium  sulphide  with  allyl  iodide.  It  dissolves  easily  in  alcohol 
and  ether,  and  sparingly  in  water;  with  silver  nitrate,  mercuric  chloride,  and  other 
metallic  salts  it  forms  crystalline  compounds.  Garlic,  macerated  in  water  or  vinegar, 
yields  its  virtues  to  these  liquids. 

Allyl  Tribromide. — Tribromhydrin  C3H5Br3  = CII2Br.CHBr.  CH2Br,  a body  closely  allied  to 
oil  of  garlic,  is  made  by  allowing  bromine  (1J  parts)  to  act  on  allyliodide,  C3H5I.  (1  part)  which 
is  cooled  by  a freezing  mixture.  The  liquid  is  filtered  after  twenty-four  hours  and  the  filtrate 
purified  by  distillation,  the  tribromide  boiling  at  217°  C.  (422°  F.).  It  has  the  sp.  gr.  2.407 
(Henry).  On  subjecting  to  cold  the  tribromide  congeals  in  the  form  of  prisms  fusing  at  16-17° 
C.  (60-61.5°  F.). 

Preservation. — Garlic  is  best  preserved  in  a dry  place  at  a moderate  temperature, 
in  which  it  slowly  parts  with  its  water.  A.  P.  Sharp  proposed  (1864)  to  put  the  fresh 
and  clean  bulblets  into  a jar  and  add  a small  quantity  of  alcohol — about  2 ounces  to  a 
quart  jar.  The  vitality  of  the  bulbs  is  destroyed,  and  they  retain  their  properties  in  the 
closed  vessel  for  a long  period,  but  change  in  color,  acquiring  a brownish  somewhat 
diaphanous  appearance. 

Allied  Species. — The  following  species  of  Allium  are  more  or  less  cultivated  for  culinary 
purposes  ; their  bulbs  and  leaves  possess  a garlic-like  but  mostly  milder  odor,  which  is  depend- 
ent upon  similar  volatile  oils.  Medicinally,  they  appear  to  have  the  same  properties,  though 
in  a milder  degree  : 

Allium  Cepa,  Linne;  Onion,  E. ; Oignon,  Fr. ; Zwiebel,  G. 

Al.  Porrum,  Limit;  Leek,  E. ; Porreau,  Fr. ; Lauch,  G. 

Al.  Ascalonicum,  Linnt ; Shallott,  E. ; Echallotte,  Fr. ; Schallotte,  G. 

Al.  Schoenoprasum,  Linne ; Chives,  E. ; Civette,  Fr. ; Schnittlauch,  G. 

Action  and  Uses. — Garlic,  as  well  as  leek  and  onion,  is  a stimulant  to  the  part  to 
which  it  is  directly  applied  and  to  the  whole  system.  Its  odorous  element  may  be  per- 
ceived on  the  breath  and  its  taste  in  the  mouth  when  the  briused  bulb  has  been  applied 
to  the  skin.  When  eaten  raw  its  odor  exhales  from  many  parts  of  the  body,  and,  given 
to  nursing  women,  it  taints  their  milk,  so  that  their  infants  refuse  the  breast.  It  reddens 
the  skin,  and  may  even  vesicate  it.  Internally,  it  stimulates  the  digestive  organs,  and  is 
everywhere  used,  but  principally  in  southern  countries,  as  a condiment  for  various  kinds 
of  food.  Excessive  quantities  of  it  produce  nausea,  vomiting,  colic,  and  diarrhoea.  The 
odor  of  garlic  is  popularly  employed  to  revive  persons  from  a swoon  or  from  hysterical 
insensibility.  It  is  a vermifuge  not  to  be  neglected  in  the  treatment  of  lumbricoid  worms 
when  given  by  the  mouth,  and  for  destroying  ascarides  when  administered  by  the  rectum. 
Many  cases  of  dropsy , particularly  of  anasarca  produced  by  cold,  have  been  cured  by  a 
diet  of  bread  and  raw  onions.  This  regimen  will  sometimes  produce  copious  diuresis. 
Onions  boiled  in  milk  have  been  used  successfully  for  a like  purpose.  Anciently,  bruised 
cloves  of  garlic  were  applied  to  wounds  made  by  venomous  serpents  and  insects  and  mad 
dogs  (Adams,  Comm,  on  Paulus  FEgineta  ; Ebn.  Baithar),  and  their  prescriptions  were 
repeated  by  mediaeval  physicians.  Poultices  of  boiled  onion  are  admirable  remedies  for 
chronic  bronchitis  in  children.  They  should  be  applied  over  the  whole  front  of  the  chest. 
Internally,  garlic  is  a very  useful  agent  in  the  same  affection.  It  is  also  a domestic  remedy 
for  whooping  cough.  Onion  poultices  are  particularly  applicable  to  abscesses ; the  core  of 
a roasted  onion  relieves  earache  when  introduced  into  the  auditory  canal.  Onion  and 
garlic  cataplasms  applied  to  the  perineum  relieve  strangury.  The  dose  of  bruised  or 
chopped  garlic  or  of  the  expressed  juice  is  about  Gm.  2 (gr.  xxx). 

Allyl  tribromide  has  been  administered  in  capsules,  each  containing  5 drops,  for  the 
relief  of  various  spasmodic  disorders,  including  agina  pectoris , asthma , hysteria , and 
in fa  ntile  con vulsions. 


A L XUS.— ALOE. 


161 


ALNUS. — Alder-Bark. 

Black  Alder , E.  ; Ecorce  d'aune , Aune  noir , Fr.  ; Erlenrinde , Schwarzerle , Eller , G . ; 

Sp. 

The  bark  of  Alnus  glutinosa,  Gsertner , s.  Betula  Alnus,  Linn 6,  and  of  Alnus  serrulata, 
Alton. 

Nat.  Ord. — Cupuliferae. 

Origin. — The  first  species  is  a tree  about  9 M.  (30  feet)  high,  indigenous  to  Europe 
and  Northern  Asia;  the  second  is  a native  of  the  United  States,  and  attains  a height  of 
about  3 M.  (10  feet).  Both  grow  in  moist  localities. 

Description. — The  bark  is  in  quillsor  curved  pieces  about  1.2  Mm.  (^  inch)  thick, 
smooth  on  both  sides,  of  a brownish  ash-gray  color  externally,  the  young  bark  with  reddish- 
brown  dots,  brownish-orange  on  the  inner  surface,  inodorous,  and  of  an  astringent  some- 
what bitter  taste.  It  is  brittle,  and  breaks  with  an  uneven,  not  splintery,  fracture.  The 
bark  of  the  American  species,  which  is  called  black  alder , resembles  the  preceding,  but  is 
of  a blackish-gray  externally  ; has  small  suberous  warts,  which  become  somewhat  confluent 
transversely,  and  is  marked  with  a few  coarse  longitudinal  striae  upon  the  orange-brown 
inner  surface. 

Constituents. — Alder-bark  contains  tannin,  that  of  the  black  alder  about  4 per  cent, 
and  the  aments  of  the  same  species  1.5  per  cent.  (Bowman,  1*869).  These  results  were 
obtained  by  precipitation  with  gelatin.  According  to  Stenliouse  (1843),  the  tannin  of  the 
European  alder-bark  is  precipitated  by  gelatin,  but  not  by  tartar  emetic ; ferric  acetate 
yields  a purplish-blue,  and  ferrous  chloride  a dark  olive-green,  precipitate. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  American  species  of  alder  is  said  to  be  “ astringent  and 
diuretic,"  which  may  be  doubted,  since  astringents  are  seldom  diuretics.  Its  astringency 
resides  in  the  leaves,  as  well  as  in  the  bark,  with  both  of  which  decoctions  are  prepared 
for  the  treatment  of  diarrhoea  and  hsematuria  ; and  the  former,  when  bruised,  are  applied 
to  contusions , sprains , and  ulcers.  The  inner  bark  is  said  to  be  emetic.  The  European 
species  possesses  almost  identical  virtues.  Its  decoction  is  employed  for  the  purposes 
above  mentioned,  and  as  a gargle  in  sore  throat , as  a mouth-wash  for  ulceration  of  the  gums, 
etc.,  as  an  injection  in  leucorrhoea,  etc. ; and  the  bruised  leaves  are  sometimes  applied  to 
the  mammae  to  lessen  the  secretion  of  milk  or  dissipate  indurations  during  lactation. 
Internally,  the  bark  has  been  used  in  intermittent  fever.  The  dose  of  the  powdered  bark 
is  Gm.  0.60  (gr.  x)  several  times  a day.  The  decoction  or  infusion  may  be  made  with 
Gm.  16  (gss)  to  Gm.  500  (Oj)  of  water. 

The  bark  of  Alnus  viridis  is  said  to  be  used  as  a remedy  for  dropsy  by  the  Indians 
living  near  Hudson’s  Bay  (Spaydon,  Therap.  Gaz .,  viii.  398). 

ALOE,  V.  S.,  Br.,  F.  G .,  F.  It.— Aloes. 

Alohs,  Fr.  ; Aloe,  G. ; Acibar , Sp. 

The  inspissated  juice  of  the  leave*  of  different  species  of  Aloe.  Bentley  and  Trimen, 
Med.  Plants , 282,  283,  284. 

Nat.  Ord. — Liliaceae. 

Official  Varieties.  — 1.  Aloe  Barbadensis,  Br.,  U.  S. — Barbadoes  aloes,  He- 
patic aloes,  E. ; Alo6s  hepatique  des  Barbades,  Fr.  ; Barbadoes  Aloe,  G. — From  Aloe 
vera  ( Linne ),  Webb,  s.  A.  vulgaris,  Lamarck. 

2.  Aloe  Capensis,  U.  S.  1870  ; Aloe,  P.  G.,  Aloe  lucida.— Cape  aloes,  E. ; Alo4s  du 
Cap,  Aloes  lucide,  Fr. ; Capaloe,  G. — From  Aloe  ferox,  Lamarck,  A.  spicata,  Thunberg , 
A.  Lingua,  Linne,  s.  Gasteria  Lingua,  Willdenow,  and  of  other  species  of  Aloe. 

3.  Aloe  Socotrina,  Br.,  U.  S. — Aloe,  U.  S.  1878,  Aloe  socotrina.— Socotrine  aloes, 
E. ; Aloes  sucotrin,  A.  sucotrin,  Fr. ; Socotora  Aloe,  Socotrinische  Aloe,  G. — From 
Aloe  Perry i,  Baker. 

Origin. — In  aspect  these  plants  resemble  the  so-called  century-plant,  or  American 
aloe,  Agave  americana,  Linne.  Of  the  above-named  species,  Aloe  vera  has  yellow  flowers, 
and  is  indigenous  to  India  and  North-eastern  Africa,  and  has  been  naturalized  along  the 
shores  of  the  Mediterranean  and  in  the  West  Indian  Islands  ; A.  indica,  Royle,  A.  littoralis, 
Koenig,  and  several  other  forms  described  as  distinct  species,  are  now  regarded  as  mere 
varieties  of  this.  A.  socotrina,  with  orange-red  flowers,  belongs  to  the  east  coast  of 
Africa,  near  the  southern  shore  of  the  Red  Sea,  and  to  the  neighboring  islands  of  the 
Indian  Ocean.  A.  purpurascens,  Haworth,  A.  rubescens,  De  Candolle , and  A.  officinalis, 
Forskal,  which  are  indigenous  to  tropical  or  Southern  Africa,  have  been  referred  to  this 
11 


162 


ALOE. 


species  as  varieties.  A.  spicata,  with  yellowish  and  orange-colored  flowers,  and  A.  ferox, 
with  reddish  or  yellowish  flowers,  are  indigenous  to  the  southern  part  of  Africa,  together 

with  A.  africana,  Miller , A.  linguae- 
^IG-  11-  formis,  Linne , A.  aborescens,  Miller , 

and  other  species,  which  are  used  in 
preparing  some  of  the  commercial 
aloes.  The  aloes-plant  of  the  island 
of  Socotra,  according  to  Balfour 
(1882),  is  Aloe  Perryi,  Baker,  a 
species  quite  distinct  from  A.  soco- 
trina.  Aloe  abyssinica,  Lamarck , is 
probably  the  source  of  Jafferabad  aloes, 
met  with  in  commerce  in  Bombay. 

Preparation.— The  large  fleshy 
leaves  of  these  plants  contain  in  their 
central  part  an  insipid,  thick,  muci- 
laginous juice,  and  a bitter  yellowish 
juice  in  distinct,  elongated,  thin- 
walled  ducts  situated  near  the  sur- 
face. To  obtain  this  bitter  juice  the 
leaves  are  cut  off  near  their  base,  and 
then  placed  in  suitable  vessels,  into 
which  their  cut  ends  project.  The 
vessel  used  in  Barbadoes  and  other 
West  Indian  Islands  is  an  inclined 
trough  from  which  the  juice  flows 
into  other  vessels,  where  it  is  pre- 
served until  it  can  be  evaporated.  In 
the  Cape  Colony  a shallow  ditch  is  dug  into  the  ground  and  covered  with  a goat-skin, 
which,  when  nearly  filled,  is  emptied  at  once  into  an  iron  kettle,  and  without  much  atten- 
tion boiled  down  to  the  proper  consistence.  Greater  care  is  bestowed  upon  the  evapora- 
tion of  the  juice  in  Barbadoes  and  Cura§ao,  the  impurities  being  removed  during  the 
evaporation,  and  when  of  sufficient  consistence  the  juice  is  poured  into  boxes  or  gourds, 
where  it  solidifies  on  cooling.  Socotrine  aloes  seems  to  be  mostly  derived  from  Zanzibar 
and  other  places  farther  north  on  the  east  coast  of  Africa.  It  enters  commerce  by  way 
of  Bombay.  Nothing  is  known  of  the  method  pursued  in  its  manufacture,  except  that 
the  juice  appears  to  be  inspissated  by  spontaneous  evaporation.  The  importation  of  all 
kinds  of  aloes  into  the  United  States  varies  between  96,500  pounds  in  1876  and  230,624 
pounds  in  1882. 

Aloe  Purificata,  U.  S. — Purified  aloes,  E. ; Aloes  depure,  Fr. ; Gereinigte  Aloe,  G. 

Socotrine  Aloes  1000  Gin.  Alcohol  200  Cc.  Heat  the  aloes,  by  means  of  a water- 
bath,  until  it  is  completely  melted.  Then  add  the  alcohol,  and,  having  stirred  the  mix- 
ture thoroughly,  strain  it  through  a No.  60  sieve  which  has  just  been  dipped  into  boiling 
water.  Evaporate  the  strained  mixture  by  means  of  a water-bath,  constantly  stirring, 
until  a thread  of  the  liquid  becomes  brittle  on  cooling.  Lastly,  break  the  product,  when 
cold,  into  pieces  of  convenient  size,  and  keep  it  in  well-stopped  bottles. — U.  S. 

The  process  remains  the  same  as  heretofore  ; its  object  is  the  removal  of  fragments  of 
leaves,  wood,  stones,  pieces  of  skin,  and  other  extraneous  matter,  which  are  always  found 
in  larger  or  smaller  proportion  in  Socotrine  as  well  as  in  Cape  aloes.  If  the  heat  is  reg- 
ulated by  means  of  a water-bath,  there  is  no  danger  of  impairing  the  virtues  of  aloes  by 
ovei heating.  The  melted  aloes  is  rendered  sufficiently  fluid,  by  the  addition  of  the  alcohol, 
to  pass  without  difficulty  through  the  sieve,  if  this  has  been  previously  warmed.  The 
impurities  remain  upon  the  sieve,  and  the  strained  liquid  may  be  at  once  evaporated.  If 
the  operation  has  been  carefully  performed,  purified  aloes  will  be  dull-brown  or  reddish- 
brown,  brittle,  of  the  peculiar  aromatic  odor  of  Socotrine  aloes,  and  will  yield  a bright 
brownish-yellow  powder. 

Description. — 1.  Barbadoes  Aloes.  It  is  usually  imported  in  gourds,  and  has  a 
deep-brown  or  orange-brown  color,  which  in  thin  pieces  has  a decidedly  yellow  or  reddish- 
yellow  tinge  ; it  is  opaque  in  mass,  translucent  in  thin  splinters,  and  breaks  with  a smooth 
scarcely  conchoidal,  waxy  fracture.  When  breathed  upon  it  has  a strong  saffron-like 
odor,  which  is,  however,  distinct  from  that  of  Socotrine  aloes.  With  nitric  acid  it  ac- 
quires a red  color,  and  on  mixing  with  sulphuric  acid,  and  then  blowing  the  vapor  of 


ALOE. 


63 


j nitric  acid  over  the  mixture,  it  should  remain  colorless  or  assume  only  a greenish-blue 
tint  (difference  from  Natal  aloes).  Ether  dissolves  about  10  percent,  of  Barbadoes  aloes. 

Similar  in  appearance,  but  rather  darker  and  more  glossy,  are  Curacao  and  Bonaire 
aloes  ; their  fracture  is  more  conchoidal  and  their  odor  less  agreeable. 

2.  Cape  Aloes.  This  is  readily  distinguished  from  the  other  kinds  by  its  dark, 
blackish-brown  color  (which  is  frequently  of  an  olive  tint),  its  glossy  appearance,  and  its 
large  conchoidal  fracture.  It  is  transparent  on  the  edge,  with  a red-brown  color,  and  has 
a saffron-like  but  disagreeable  sourish  odor.  It  affords  a light  yellowish-brown  or  greenish- 
brown  powder,  and  yields  to  ether  from  1.5  to  6.5  per  cent,  of  soluble  matter.  It  is 
imported  in  cases,  and  varies  more  or  less  in  the  shade  of  color  and  in  the  brilliancy  of 
its  fracture. 

3.  Socotrine  or  Zanzibar  Aloes.  This  is  put  up  in  skins,  and  of  late  years  also 
in  kegs  and  tin-lined  boxes.  It  is  sometimes  met  with  in  the  liquid  state,  and  separates 
then  into  two  distinct  layers,  of  which  the  upper  one  is  transparent,  while  the  lower  con- 
sists of  a brown-yellow  crystalline  mass.  Even  when  quite  hard  externally  the  interior 
of  the  packages  is  often  found  in  a soft  or  semi-fluid  state.  When  carefully  dried  it  has 
a conchoidal,  dull  fracture,  and  is  of  a yellowish  orange-brown  color,  destitute  of  the 
greenish  hue  of  Cape  aloes.  On  exposure  the  color  darkens  considerably  upon  the  surface. 
The  powder  is  of  a bright  brownish  yellow,  and  when  dried  and  then  heated  to  100°  C. 
(212°  F.)  it  should  not  cake.  When  breathed  upon  it  emits  an  aromatic  saffron-like 
odor,  more  pleasant  than  that  of  the  other  varieties.  From  4 to  5.5  per  cent,  of  Soco- 
trine aloes  is  soluble  in  ether.  Socotrine  aloes  assumes  with  nitric  acid  a reddish-brown 
color,  and  on  blowing  the  vapor  of  nitric  acid  over  a mixture  of  this  aloes  and  sul- 
phuric acid,  it  should  not  become  blue. 

4.  Other  Varieties  of  Aloes.  Under  the  name  of  hepatic  aloes  a variety  of  Soco- 
trine aloes  was  formerly  known  in  Europe,  which  came  into  commerce  from  the  East 
Indies.  The  name  was  afterward  applied  to  any  opaque  liver-colored  variety.  In  the 
United  States  this  name  has  been  used  to  designate  Barbadoes  aloes.  Natal  aloes  is  an 
opaque  variety  of  a brownish-gray  or  light  brownish-yellow  color,  differing  very  consid- 
erably in  appearance  from  the  preceding  varieties.  It  is  prepared  from  an  undetermined 
species  in  the  interior  of  Natal,  the  juice  being  concentrated  by  careful  boiling.  Jafferabad 
aloes  is  of  a black  pitch-like  color  and  lustre,  a glassy  somewhat  porous  fracture,  and,  in 
powder,  of  a pale-brown  hue ; its  odor  and  taste  are  less  agreeable  than  those  of  Socotrine 
aloes.  An  inferior  kind,  known  in  European  commerce  as  Molm  aloes , comes  from  the 
interior  of  Arabia  ; it  is  opaque,  almost  black,  of  irregular  fracture  and  disagreeable  odor, 
and  yields  a pale  reddish-brown  powder.  By  the  name  of  Caballine  or  horse  aloes  European 
writers  used  to  designate  the  inferior,  impure,  and  fetid  kinds  of  different  origin. 

The  difference  in  the  sensible  properties  of  the  different  varieties  of  aloes  must  in  part 
be  referred  to  the  species  from  which  they  are  derived,  and  to  the  climate  and  soil  in 
which  the  plants  grow  ; and  it  must  depend  to  a considerable  extent  upon  the  care 
bestowed  upon  obtaining  the  bitter  juice  free  from  the  insipid  mucilaginous  contents  of 
the  cells  of  the  interior  parenchyma,  upon  the  manner  in  which  concentration  is  effected, 
and  upon  its  freedom  from  accidental  impurities.  These  latter  are  perhaps  never  absent, 
but  are  sometimes  present  in  considerable  proportion,  although  not  readily  observable  on 
the  examination  of  the  aloes ; hence  the  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia  orders  the  purification  of 
Socotrine  aloes.  The  opaqueness  of  some  sorts  of  aloes  is  due  to  the  crystallization  of 
one  of  the  principles.  The  glossy  and  transparent  kinds  do  not  contain  such  a crystallized 
principle,  but  are  nearly  homogeneous.  The  odor  of  aloes  is  best  observed  when  a sample 
is  breathed  upon  ; it  resembles  strongly  saffron,  associated  with  another  odor,  which  is 
distinct  for  each  kind.  The  taste  of  aloes  is  disagreeably  bitter  and  very  persistent. 

Aloes  dissolves  almost  completely  in  alcohol  and  in  boiling  water,  the  latter  solution  sep- 
arating, on  cooling,  about  40  to  60  per  cent,  of  the  so-called  resin  of  aloes , which  is  taken 
up  by  alkalies  and  reprecipitated  by  acids.  Chloroform  in  contact  with  aloes  remains 
uncolored  even  when  heated  to  boiling ; pure  ether  acquires  only  a slight  yellowish  color. 

Constituents. — None  of  the  older  analyses  have  thrown  any  light  upon  the  compo- 
sition of  aloes  beyond  establishing  the  degree  of  solubility  of  different  samples  in  several 
solvents  and  the  behavior  of  these  solutions  with  different  reagents.  T.  and  II.  Smith  of 
Edinburgh  succeeded  (1851)  in  isolating  from  Barbadoes  aloes  a crystalline  principle, 
which  was  then  named  a Inin , but  is  now  called  barbaloin , to  distinguish  it  from  the  crys- 
talline principles  of  other  varieties.  Socotrine  aloes,  containing  a large  number  of 
crystals,  was  noticed  by  Pereira  in  1852,  and  the  crystalline  principle  was  isolated  by 
Groves  (1856),  but  then  regarded  as  being  identical  with  barbaloin,  until  their  difference 


164 


ALOE. 


was  shown  by  Histed  (1871).  Groves’s  process  consists  in  dissolving  1 part  of  aloes  in 
10  parts  of  boiling  water,  decanting  after  cooling  from  the  sediment,  and  acidulating 
slightly  with  hydrochloric  acid.  Tilden  (1870)  prefers  acidulating  the  water  with  sul- 
phuric, sulphurous,  or  hydrochloric  acid  before  dissolving  the  aloes,  and  allowing  to  rest 
overnight ; the  clear  liquid  is  then  rapidly  evaporated  to  about  2 parts,  and  set  aside  in 
a cool  place  to  crystallize  ; the  crystals  are  purified  by  recrystallization  from  very  dilute 
alcohol.  Nataloin  was  obtained  by  Fliickiger  (1871)  by  triturating  Natal  aloes  with  an 
equal  weight  of  alcohol  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  48°  C.  (118°  F.),  when  the 
amorphous  portion  will  be  dissolved ; the  residuary  crystalline  mass,  after  washing  with 
cold  alcohol,  is  recrystallized  from  hot  methylic  or  ethylic  alcohol.  Socaloin,  being  soluble 
in  cold  spirit  almost  as  freely  as  the  amorphous  constituents,  cannot  be  obtained  in  the 
same  manner ; but  Histed  succeeded  in  preparing  it  with  little  loss  by  mixings  powdered 
Socotrine  aloes  with  a little  alcohol  (sp.  gr.  .9#60),  expressing  strongly  between  calico,  and 
crystallizing  the  press-cake  from  warm  weak  alcohol.  The  same  process  yields  also  the 
aloin  of  Jafferabad  aloes  (Shenstone,  1882). 

Aloinum , U.  S .,  Br.,  is  barbaloin  or  socaloin. 

Barbaloin , C17H20O7,  occurs  in  small  yellow  prismatic  needles,  which  dissolve  at  15°  C. 
(59°  F.)  in  60  parts  of  water,  20  parts  of  alcohol,  and  470  parts  of  ether.  Bromine- 
water  produces  in  its  solution  a yellow  precipitate  of  hromaloin,  which  crystallizes  in 
needles.  Heated  with  nitric  acid,  barbaloin  yields  chrysammic,  aloetic,  picric,  and  oxalic 
acids.  Barbaloin,  added  to  a drop  of  nitric  acid,  produces  a crimson  color,  which  rapidly 
fades.  According  to  Hanausek  (1881),  the  aloin  from  Curagao  aloes  has  the  same  be- 
havior to  reagents,  but  its  composition  is  C15H1707. 

Socaloin  or  Zanaloin , C15H1607,  crystallizes  in  small  yellow  needles,  which  dissolve  in 
30  parts  of  absolute  alcohol,  60  of  water,  380  of  ether,  9 of  acetic  ether,  and  freely  in 
methylic  alcohol.  Cold  nitric  acid  has  little  effect  upon  socaloin,  but  upon  heating 
imparts  to  it  an  orange-red  color,  and  oxidizes  it  to  the  same  acids  which  are  obtained  with 
barbaloin.  Precisely  the  same  effect  was  observed  by  Shenstone  with  the  aloin  from 
Jafferabad  aloes ; hence  these  three  aloins  form  a well-defined  group  quite  distinct  from 
nataloin.  An  aqueous  solution  of  aloin  is  colored  greenish-black  by  ferric  chloride  and 
slowly  precipitated  by  basic  lead  acetate. 

Nataloin , C16H1807,  crystallizes  best  from  methylic  alcohol  in  thin  pale-yellow  rec- 
tangular scales,  which  dissolve  at  15.5°  C.  (60°  F.)  in  35  parts  of  methylic  alcohol,  50 
of  acetic  ether,  230  of  absolute  alcohol,  and  1236  of  ether.  It  is  sparingly  soluble  in 
hot  and  cold  water  and  in  about  60  parts  of  alcohol.  Nitric  acid  does  not  convert  it  into 
chrysammic  acid,  but  yields  oxalic  and  picric  acids.  Nataloin,  added  to  a drop  of  nitric 
acid,  produces  a crimson  color,  which  is  more  permanent  than  the  similar  color  produced 
with  barbaloin.  If  nataloin  is  added  to  a drop  of  sulphuric  acid  and  the  vapor  of  fuming 
nitric  acid  is  passed  over  the  surface,  the  orange-colored  liquid  will  assume  a fine  green 
color,  quickly  changing  to  red  and  blue  (Histed,  Transac.  Br.  Pharm.  Conf  1871 , p.  580). 

Aloetic  acid , C7H2(N02)20,  is  an  orange-red  powder.  Chrysammic  acid , CuH4(N02)4- 
(OH)20,  forms  bright  golden-yellow  laminae,  yields  crystallizable  salts  having  a metallic 
lustre,  and  by  nascent  hydrogen  and  other  deoxidizing  agents  is  converted  into  hydrochrys- 
amide , which  is  sublimable,  and  crystallizes  in  indigo-colored  needles. 

The  above  formulas  for  the  three  aloins  are  those  of  Sommaruga  and  Egger  (1874), 
and  if  correct  would  prove  these  principles  to  be  homologous.  Stenhouse’s  formula  for 
crystallized  barbaloin  is  C34H360i4.H20  ; Tilden’s  formula  for  nataloin  = C25H28On  ; Fliicki- 
ger’s  formula  for  socaloin  = C34H380i5  + 5H20.  Tilden  (1875)  considers  barbaloin  and 
socaloin,  although  differing  in  chemical  and  some  physical  properties,  to  have  the  compo- 
sition C16H1807,  but  to  unite  with  different  proportions  of  water  of  crystallization.  These 
results  were  confirmed  by  E.  Schmidt  (1876).  On  pouring  a solution  of  aloin  into  an 
excess  of  bromine-water,  a precipitate  of  hromaloin , C16H15Br307,  is  obtained,  which  crys- 
tallizes from  alcohol  in  beautiful  yellow  needles.  Nataloin  does  not  yield  a similar  bro- 
mine compound. 

Kosmann  did  not  succeed  (1863)  in  obtaining  a crystallizable  body  from  Cape  aloes ; 
he  assigned  to  the  yellow  amorphous  portion,  soluble  in  water  and  alcohol,  the  formula 
C34H22O20,  and  stated  that  the  insoluble  portion  had  nearly  the  same  composition,  and  that 
both  were  glucosides. 

Tilden  and  Bammell  examined  (1872)  the  so-called  resin  from  Barbadoes  and  Socotrine 
aloes,  and  observed  that  by  continued  boiling  a portion  of  it  can  be  rendered  permanently 
soluble  in  water.  This  and  the  insoluble  portion  are  nearly  alike  in  composition,  and 
appear  to  differ  from  barbaloin  merely  by  the  elements  of  water,  and,  for  the  insoluble 


ALOE. 


165 


resin  also,  by  containing  less  hydrogen.  This  view  is  somewhat  supported  by  the  change 
into  an  amorphous  substance  when  aloin  is  boiled  for  a long  time  with  water,  or  more 
rapidly  in  the  presence  of  a little  alkali,  while  small  quantities  of  acid  prevent  this  change. 
The  amorphous  aloetin , aloeresin , and  aloebitter  of  older  investigators  must  have  been  aloin 
similarly  modified. 

By  continued  boiling  of  Socotrine  aloes  with  alkali,  Czumpelick  (1861)  obtained,  among 
other  compounds,  crystals  of  an  acid  which  Hlasiwetz  (1865)  procured  by  boiling  aloes 
with  dilute  sulphuric  acid,  and  named  paracumaric  acid ; on  fusing  this  with  potassa, 
para-oxybenzoic  acid  is  formed.  The  latter  is  also  yielded  by  the  same  process  from  aloes, 
together  with  oxalic  acid,  volatile  fatty  acids,  and  orcin,  and,  according  to  Weselsky 
(1872),  alorcinic  acid.  The  latter  is  soluble  in  alcohol  and  ether,  sublimable,  and  acquires 
a transient  purplish-violet  color  with  chlorinated  soda. 

On  distilling  aloes  with  zinc-dust,  Graebe  and  Liebermann  (1868)  obtained  anthracene , 
C14H]0,  and  E.  Schmidt  also  metliylanthracene.  On  distilling  aloes  with  lime,  Robiquet 
(1846)  separated  a colorless  or  yellowish  oil,  aloisol , of  an  odor  resembling  that  of  amyl 
alcohol  and  oil  of  bitter  almond.  Rembold  (1866)  ascertained  this  aloisol  to  be  a variable 
mixture  of  acetone,  xylenol,  and  other  compounds.  When  incinerated,  aloes  yields  from 
1 to  4 per  cent,  of  ash. 

Pul  vis  Aloes  et  Canella,  Hiera  Picra. — Rub  together  and  mix  thoroughly  Soco- 
trine Aloes  4 ounces,  Canella  1 ounce. — U.  S.  1870. 

Action  and  Uses. — Aloes  is  presumed  to  act  decidedly  upon  the  lower  bowels, 
since  it  causes  an  increase  of  the  hsemorrhoidal  flux  when  it  exists,  and  tends  to  bring 
on  or  augment  the  menstrual  flow.  Genital  irritation  is  sometimes  manifested.  The 
general  belief  that  aloes  tends  to  produce  haemorrhoids  is  contradicted  by  the  results  of 
experience : these  bodies  probably  arise  from  the  constipation  which  aloes  is  given  to 
relieve.  The  evident  stimulation  of  the  pelvic  organs  by  aloes  has  led  to  its  use  as  an 
abortifacient,  but  there  is  no  case  on  record  which  conclusively  proves  it  to  be  so. 
Associated  with  sodium  bicarbonate  in  watery  solution  and  exposed  to  the  air,  aloes 
loses,  in  a great  degree,  its  bitterness  and  its  purgative  properties.  It  is  held  by  some 
that  aloin  is  two  or  three  times  as  active  as  good  aloes.  Its  cathartic  action  is  said  to 
be  uniform,  rather  more  speedy  than  that  of  crude  aloes,  and  unattended  by  griping. 

The  action  of  aloes  upon  the  stomach  and  indirectly  on  the  liver,  and  its  slow  and 
moderate  operation  as  a purgative,  have  led  to  its  use  in  habitual  constipation;  and  it 
enters  into  numberless  compounds  devised  for  the  relief  of  that  condition,  especially  as 
it  presents  itself  in  persons  of  sedentary  habits,  on  the  approach  of  old  age,  as  an  effect 
of  repeated  pregnancy,  etc.  It  is  said  to  be  contraindicated  by  a plethoric,  bilious,  or  haem- 
orrhagic constitution,  when  the  liver  is  congested,  during  pregnancy,  and  when  haemor- 
rhoids exist ; but  these  statements  are  not  justified  by  experience.  As  regards  haemorrhoids , 
those  attended  with  a mucous  discharge  are  most  apt  to  be  benefited  by  aloes.  Ascarides 
of  the  rectum  may  often  be  destroyed  by  enemas  of  aloes,  of  which  the  best  consists  of 
aloes  dissolved  in  an  infusion  of  quassia.  Jaundice  from  “hepatic  torpor  ” or  congestion 
may  be  successfully  treated  with  purgative  doses  of  aloes  combined  with  blue  pill.  The 
condition  so  called,  however,  usually  depends  on  constipation.  In  simple  amenorrhoea 
of  the  torpid  sort  aloetic  purgatives  are  very  efficient,  especially  in  the  form  of  tincture, 
or  of  the  pill  of  aloes  and  myrrh,  or  of  the  powder  of  aloes  and  canella.  Aloes  and 
iron  are  equally  valuable  in  cases  of  menorrhagia  arising  from  debility,  and  enemas  of 
aloes  and  soap  have  been  found  serviceable  in  curing  atonic  uterine  catarrh.  Aloetic 
laxatives  will  sometimes  arrest  gleet.  Powdered  aloes,  which  is  used  in  veterinary  sur- 
gery, has  been  of  great  service  in  treating  lacerated  wounds  (Millett).  The  other  local 
applications  of  aloes  are  described  in  connection  with  the  tinctures  into  which  it  enters. 

Aloes  in  pilular  form  is  best  administered  alone,  or  simply  associated  with  soap  or  with 
an  alkaline  carbonate  to  promote  its  solution.  As  a laxative  it  may  be  given  in  the  dose 
of  from  Gm.  0.20-.0.60  (gr.  iij-x).  Custom  has,  however,  sanctioned  its  use  in  combina- 
tion with  mastic  for  this  purpose ; or  one  of  the  pills  alluded  to  above,  so  compounded 
that  its  several  constituents  shall  be  fitted  to  act  upon  the  several  divisions  of  the  intesti- 
nal canal.  In  these  preparations  the  proportion  of  aloes  should  not  exceed  two  or  three 
grains  in  each  dose.  The  tincture  and  the  wine  of  aloes  are  occasionally  used  as  purga- 
tives. Its  combinations  with  myrrh,  with  asafoetida,  and  with  cannella  are  especially 
adapted  to  the  treatment  of  derangements  of  the  catamenia,  and  those  with  benzoin  are 
used  as  internal  and  also  as  local  stimulants.  Aloin  may  be  substituted  for  aloes  in  the 
various  pills  containing  the  latter.  As  a prescription  for  the  relief  of  habitual  constipa- 
tion due  to  sluggishness  of  the  bowels  or  torpor  of  the  liver  the  following  formula?  have 


166 


ALSTON  I A. 


been  recommended;  R.  Aloes  gr.  I ; Ferri  sulph.  exsic.  gr.  iss  ; Quiniae  sulpb.  gr.  j ; Cap- 
sici  gr.  i ; Ext.  nucis  vomic.  gr.  ss  ; Ext.  gentianae  q.  s.  ut  ft.  pil.  To  be  taken  two  or 
three  times  a day,  after  *meals.  R.  Aloes  gr.  l;  Strychninae  gr.  -gL ; Ext.  belladonnae 
gr.  i ; Ipecacuanhas  gr.  M.  ft.  pil.  S.  at  bed-time. 

ALSTONIA. — Dita-Bark. 

Scarce  de  dita , Fr. ; Ditarinde , Gr. 

The  bark  of  Alstonia  (Echites,  Linne ) scholaris,  R.  Brown.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med. 
Plants , 173. 

Nat.  Ord. — Apocynaceae. 

Origin. — Dita-bark  comes  from  a stately  forest  tree  indigenous  to  the  East  Indies, 
Eastern  Australia,  the  Philippines,  and  other  neighboring  islands.  The  wood  is  soft  and 
white,  and  the  greenish-white  flowers  have,  in  the  night,  a strongly  aromatic  odor. 

Description. — The  bark  is  in  thick  curved  pieces,  usually  about  2 or  4 inches 
(5  to  10  Cm.)  long,  % an  inch  (12  Mm.)  broad,  and  £ to  i inch  (3  to  8 Mm.)  thick.  It 
is  externally  of  a leather  color,  has  a scaly  appearance  from  its  longitudinal  and  trans- 
verse fissures,  and  is  not  unfrequently  marked  with  small  black  spots.  Internally  it  is 
light  yellowish-brown,  the  inner  surface  brown-gray  and  longitudinally  striate.  The  bark 
breaks  with  a short,  or  rather  horny,  somewhat  porous  fracture,  showing  in  the  outer  layer 
groups  of  yellow  stone-cells,  and  in  the  inner  layer  narrow  wavy  medullary  rays,  and  yields 
a yellowish-gray  powder,  which  is  inodorous  and  has  a slightly  bitter  not  unpleasant  taste. 

Constituents. — Gr.  Gruppe  of  Manilla  obtained  from  dita-bark  about  2 to  5 per 
cent,  of  ditaine , which  was  uncrystallizable,  very  hygroscopic,  and  bitter.  Jobst 
and  Hesse  (1875)  obtained  from  the  aqueous  solution  of  the  alcoholic  extract  by 
lead  acetate  a precipitate  containing  a crystalline  and  an  oily  acid,  by  lead  subatetate 
a precipitate  containing  resin-like  bodies,  and  by  phosphotungstic  acid  a precipitate 
containing  the  alkaloid  ditamine , C16H1902,  which  is  a white  bitter  powder  soluble  in 
ether,  alcohol,  chloroform,  and  benzene,  and  by  sulphuric  acid  is  colored  red,  on  warm- 
ing violet-red  ; by  nitric  acid  yellow,  on  warming  dark-green  to  violet.  Only  .02  per 
cent,  of  the  alkaloid  was  obtained,  which  yields  very  bitter  salts.  The  bark  yields  to 
petroleum  benzin  several  fatty  and  resinous  substances,  named  echicaoutchin , echiretin , 
echicerin , echitin , and  echitein , and  the  three  last  of  which  are  crystallizable.  Harnack 
(1877)  isolated  a crystalline  alkaloid,  ditaine , which  Hesse  (1881)  named  echitamine , 
C22H28N204.  It  forms  glossy  prisms  containing  4H20,  is  a strong  base,  is  almost  insol- 
uble in  benzene  and  benzin,  and  dissolves  readily  in  water,  alcohol,  and,  if  freshly  pre- 
cipitated, also  in  ether  and  chloroform.  Its  hydrochlorate  is  sparingly  soluble  in  cold 
water  and  nearly  insoluble  in  hydrochloric  acid  and  in  alkali  chlorides.  Sulphuric  acid 
imparts  a deep  purplish-red  color,  changing  to  green.  Hesse  obtained  also  a third  alka- 
loid, echitenine , C20H27NO4,  which  is  amorphous,  brown,  easily  soluble  in  alcohol,  less  so 
in  water,  and  is  colored  reddish-violet  by  sulphuric  acid,  and  purple,  afterward  green  and 
yellow,  by  nitric  acid. 

Allied  Drug. — The  closely  allied  poele-bark  of  Java,  which  comes  from  Alstonia  spectabilis,  R. 
Brown , yielded  to  Hesse  0.8  per  cent,  of  echitamine,  or  fully  six  times  the  quantity  contained  in 
dita-bark  ; it  contains  also  the  other  alkaloids  in  larger  proportion  than  the  latter ; and  in  addi- 
tion thereto  alstonamine , which  resembles  ditamine  in  behavior,  but  is  crystallizable  ; it  was  iso- 
lated by  A.  Scharlee  in  1862,  and  then  named  alstonine , but  this  name  is  now  used  for  one  of  the 
alkaloids  of  Australian  alstonia-bark. 

Alstonia-bark,  from  Alstonia  constricta,  F.  Mueller , a native  of  Australia,  differs  greatly  in 
appearance  from  the  dita-bark  in  being  3 to  5 Cm.  (11  to  2 inches)  thick,  deeply  furrowed, 
externally  brown-gray,  or  after  abrasion  ochrey-yellow,  and  ridged  upon  the  inner  surface  ; 
the  bast-layer  is  about  6 Mm.  (1  inch)  broad,  yellow,  tough  and  fibrous,  and  is  covered  by 
the  thick,  spongy,  and  friable  corky  layer,  which  is  composed  of  alternating  bands  of  lighter 
and  darker  ochre  color,  these  bands  being  present  also  in  the  much  thinner  bark  from  young 
wood,  with  a relatively  thin  periderm  ; the  powder  is  grayish-yellow,  odor  slight,  taste  persist- 
ently bitter. 

The  bark  was  described  and  its  origin  determined  by  Charles  Mohr  (1879).  Palm  (1863)  found 
in  it  a neutral  bitter  principle,  alstonia ; Hesse  (1865)  two  alkaloids,  chlorogenine  and  porphy- 
rine ; Mueller  and  Rummel  described  an  alkaloid,  alstonine;  and  Oberlin  and  Schlagdenhauffen 
(1879)  a second  uncrystallizable  alkaloid,  alstonicine.  The  alkaloids  characterized  by  Hesse  in 
1881  are  : alstonine  (chlorogenine),  O21II20N2O4,  brownish-yellow,  amorphous,  readily  soluble  in 
alcohol,  and,  when  freshly  precipitated,  also  in  chloroform  and  water,  sparingly  soluble  in  ether ; 
its  salts  are  insoluble  in  dilute  acids  : porphyrine . C21H25N302,  white,  amorphous,  soluble  in 
petroleum  naphtha,  freely  soluble  in  ether,  alcohol,  and  chloroform,  the  acid  solutions  of  a 


ALTHAEA. 


167 


blue  fluorescence  : sulphuric  or  nitric  acid  dissolves  it  with  a purple  color,  that  with  nitric 
acid  changing  to  yellowish  and  brownish  green ; alstonidine  crystallizes  from  its  solutions  in 
chloroform,  ether,  alcohol,  acetone,  and  hot  petroleum  naphtha ; is  not  colored  by  sulphuric  or 
nitric  acid,  but  its  solutions  show  blue  fluorescence.  One  or  more  other  alkaloids  are  present 
in  minute  quantity. 

Allied  Species. — In  the  East  Indies  the  root  of  Echites  malabarica,  Lamarck,  is  used  as  a febri 
fuge,  and  the  leaves  as  an  application  to  carbuncles  ; the  leaves  of  Ech.  caryophyllata,  Roxburgh, 
in  arthritic  fevers ; and  the  bark  of  Ech.  pubescens,  Buchanan , and  Ech.  antidysenterica,  Rox * 
burgh , like  the  Brazilian  Ech.  Cururu,  Martins , Ech.  insignis,  Sprengel , and  Ech.  longiflora,  Des- 
fontaines , in  diarrhoea  and  dysentery.  Ech.  syphilitica,  Linnt  filius , of  Surinam,  is  used  there  in 
syphilitic  complaints. 

Under  the  name  of  conessi-bark  the  bark  of  one  or  two  of  the  above  species  has  sometimes 
been  used  ; but  true  conessi-bark  is  referred  to  Wrightia  (Holarrhena)  antidysenterica,  R.  Brown. 
It  contains  an  alkaloid  which  was  discovered  by  Haines  (1858),  but  obtained  pure  by  Stenhouse 
(1864),  and  has  been  named  cones  sine,  wrightine,  and  kurchicine ; it  is  white,  amorphous,  bitter, 
and  readily  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  and  dilute  acids. 

Action  and  Uses. — Dita-bark  and  also  its  alkaloid  are  reported  to  have  been  used 
successfully  in  intermittent  fever  in  the  East  Indies,  where  also  curare  is  employed  for  the 
same  purpose.  According  to  Cathcart,  “ the  bitter  bark  of  Alstonia  constricta,  some- 
times called  native  quinine,  is  in  common  use  by  the  shepherds  in  the  interior  of  Southern 
Australia  as  a domestic  remedy  for  malarial  fevers”  (Amer.  Jour.  Phar.,  Aug.  1879,  p. 
405).  Anderjoia  or  Concassi  bark  has  long  been  used  in  the  East  Indies  in  the  treat- 
ment of  dysenteric  affections,  and  generally  as  a bitter  tonic.  In  the  disorders  named  it 
has  been  compared  with  ipecacuanha.  It  has  also  been  employed  to  cure  periodical  fevers, 
and  locally  the  fresh  juice  of  the  tree  was  applied  as  a dressing  to  wounds. 

AL.TH-5HA,  TJ.  S. — Marshmallow-Root,  Althea. 

Radix  althsese,  P.  A.,  P.  G. — Guimauve , Fr.  Cod.  ; Althee , Eibisch , G. ; Altea , Malva- 
visco,  Sp. 

The  root  of  Althrna  officinalis,  Linn Woodville,  Med.  Bot.,  198 ; Bentley  and 
Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  35. 

Nat.  Ord. — Malvaceae. 

Origin. — This  perennial  herb  is  indigenous  to  the  temperate  portion  of  Northern  and 
Western  Asia  and  to  the  greater  part  of  Europe,  and  has  been  naturalized  in  the  salt- 
marshes  along  the  coast  of  New  England  and  New  York.  For  medicinal  purposes  the 
root  of  the  cultivated  plant  is  generally  employed ; and  in  Europe  the  leaves,  and  occa- 
sionally the  flowers,  are  likewise  used. 

Description. — The  root  is  fit  for  use  when  2 or  3 years  old  ; of  older  roots  only  the 
fleshy  branches  are  used,  the  woody  main  root  being  rejected.  It  is  collected  early  in  the 
spring  or  in  autumn,  and  deprived  of  the  radicles  and  of  its  brown-yellow  cork  and  outer 
bark  by  peeling.  It  forms  nearly  cylindrical  or  obtusely  angular  and  furrowed,  somewhat 
tapering,  pieces  about  7 to  20  Cm.  (3-8  inches)  long,  and  about  12  Mm.  (£  an  inch) 
thick.  It  is  of  a white  color  externally  and  yellowish-white  internally,  and  breaks  with 
a short  and  granular  fracture,  which  is  fibrous  only  in  the  cortical  portion  from  the  long- 
slender  bast-fibres,  visible  also  upon  the  surface  of  the  commercial  article  and  imparting 
to  it  a somewhat  hairy  appearance.  The  surface  is  marked  with  the  brownish  circular 
scars  of  the  radicles  ; the  internal  bark,  in  diameter  about  one-tenth  of  the  root,  contains 
bast-fibres  in  small  groups  and  arranged  somewhat  in  concentric  circles,  and  is  separated 
by  the  brown  cambium-line  from  the  slightly  radiate  meditullium,  having  narrow  medul- 
lary rays  and  small  vascular  bundles  indistinct  to  the  naked  eye,  and  consisting  of  a few 
wood-cells  and  3 or  4 duets  marked  with  circular  or  elongated  dots.  The  thin-walled  paren- 
chyma contains  starch,  with  scattered  cells  containing  crystalline  clusters  of  calcium  oxa- 
late, and  larger  cells  filled  with  mucilage.  Marshmallow-root  has  a faint,  peculiar  aro- 
matic odor  and  a sweetish  mucilaginous  taste. 

Young  and  peeled  belladonna- roots  bear  some  resemblance  to  marshmallow,  but  are 
readily  distinguished  by  the  absence  of  the  hair-like  bast-fibres  upon  the  surface  and  by 
the  yellowish  wood-bundles  which  are  plainly  visible.  Old  and  discolored  roots  have  been 
sometimes  whitened  by  lime  or  calcium  sulphate,  which  is  readily  recognized  in  the  sedi- 
ment resulting  on  leaving  the  root  in  contact  with  water.  The  infusion  of  the  root  is 
yellowish,  mucilaginous,  somewhat  aromatic,  and  of  an  insipid  taste  ; the  cooled  decoction 
(but  not  the  cold  infusion)  is  colored  blue  by  solution  of  iodine. 

Powdered  marshmallow-root,  being  very  absorbent,  is  advantageously  used  to  impart  to 
soft  pill-masses  the  proper  consistence. 


168 


ALTHAEA. 


Constituents. — A.  Buchner  obtained  (1832)  from  marshmallow-root  37.5  per  cent, 
starch,  35.6  mucilage,  11  pectin,  also  asparagin,  sugar,  fixed  oil,  glutinous  matter,  cellulose, 
and  salts.  Cold  water  will  take  up  the  mucilage,  sugar,  and  asparagin,  while  the  decoction 
will,  in  addition  thereto,  contain  starch. 

Asparagin , C4II8N203H20,  was  discovered  (1805)  by  Yauquelin  and  Robiquet  in  aspar- 
agus, by  Bacon  (1826)  in  marshmallow-root,  and  more  recently  in  many  other  plants.  L. 
A.  Buchner  obtained  it  (1862)  in  a convenient  manner  by  dialyzing  the  mucilaginous 
infusion  in  water  and  concentrating  this  solution  to  the  crystallizing  point.  The  yield  is 
about  2 per  cent.  (Plisson).  It  forms  colorless,  inodorous,  and  nearly  tasteless  crystals, 
which  are  insoluble  in  strong  alcohol  and  ether.  It  unites  with  both  acids  and  alkalies, 
and  when  boiled  with  them  is  converted  into  aspartic  or  amid o- succinic  acid,  C4FI7N04,  and 
ammonia  ; hence  asparagin  is  amido-succinamide.  Nitrous  acid  converts  it  into  malic  acid, 
C4H604,  water,  and  nitrogen. 

Allied  Drugs. — Folia  althaeae,  P.  A.,  P.  G.;  Feuillesde  Guimauve,  F.  Cod.  Marshmallow-leaves 
are  petiolate,  5 to  8 Cm.  (2-3  inches)  long,  roundish-ovate  or  subcordate,  three-  or  five-lobed, 
irregularly  crenately  toothed,  of  a grayish-green  color,  and  both  sides  velvety-downy  with  stellate 
hairs  ; their  taste  is  mucilaginous. 

Fleurs  de  Guimauve,  F.  Cod. — The  medium-sized  flowers  have  a nine-leaved  downy  involucre, 
5 sepals  and  petals,  the  latter  rose-colored  and  retuse  above ; stamens  numerous,  united  in  a 
column  and  with  the  short  claws  of  the  petals  ; taste  mucilaginous. 

Allied  Species. — Most  plants  of  the  order  Malvaceae  possess  mucilaginous  properties,  and  many 
are  employed  in  their  native  countries  in  regular  or  domestic  practice.  The  following  appear  to 
deserve  a passing  notice  : 

Althaea  (Alcea,  Limit ) rosea,  Cavanilles , Hollyhock,  E. ; Rose-tremikre,  Passe-rose,  Fr. ; 
Stockrose,  Stockmalve,  G.,  is  indigenous  to  the  Levant,  frequently  cultivated  in  gardens.  The 
flowers,  Flores  malvce  arborece , are  nearly  sessile,  7 to  10  Cm.  (3  or  4 inches)  in  diameter,  have 
a tomentose  calyx,  a six-cleft  involucre,  and  5 broad  or  retuse  petals,  which  are  connected 
at  the  base  with  the  column  of  the  united  stamens.  The  purple-colored  flowers  are  generally 
preferred. 

Malva  sylvestris,  Limit , High  mallow,  E. ; Mauve  sauvage,  Grande  mauve,  Fr. ; Kasepappel, 
Waldmalve,  G.  It  is  a native  of  Europe,  somewhat  naturalized  in  North  America,  has  an  erect 
or  decumbent  stem  .75  M.  (about  2£  feet)  high,  roundish-reniform,  five-  or  seven-lobed  and  cre- 
nately-toothed  leaves,  and  purplish,  dark-veined  flowers,  which  resemble  the  preceding,  but  are 
only  25  Mm.  (1  inch)  wide,  and  have  a pubescent  three-leaved  involucre.  The  dried  flowers, 
Flores  malvce  {vulgaris),  P.  A.,  P.  G.,  are  bluish,  and  turn  green  with  ammonia  and  red  with 
acids. 

Malva  vulgaris,  Fries , s.  M.  neglecta,  Wallroth , resembles  the  preceding,  but  the  stem  is  pro- 
cumbent, the  leaves  are  smaller  and  obtusely  lobed,  and  the  petals  rose-colored  or  whitish.  The 
leaves  of  this  and  the  preceding  species  constitute  the  Folia  ( herba ) malvce , (P.  A.)  P.  G. ; Mallow- 
leaves,  E. ; Feuilles  de  mauve , Fr. ; Malvenblatter , G. ; Malva , Sp. 

Malva  rotundifolia,  Linnt , Common  mallow,  E. ; Petite  mauve,  F.  Cod. ; Kasekraut,  G. ; 
is  indigenous  to  Europe,  extensively  naturalized  in  America;  has  a procumbent  stem,  round, 
heart-shaped  somewhat  lobed  and  crenate  leaves,  whitish  flowers  with  slightly  retuse  rather  short 
petals,  and  numerous  wrinkled  one-seeded  carpels  circularly  arranged. 

Hibiscus  (Abelmoschus,  Guillemin  et  Perrottet)  esculentus,  Linn 6 (cancellatus,  Roxburgh , 
variety),  Okra  or  Gombo.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 36. — It  is  indigenous  to  tropical 
Africa,  and  cultivated  in  most  tropical  and  subtropical  countries.  The  heart-shaped  about  five- 
lobed  toothed  leaves  and  the  unripe  capsules  are  used.  The  latter  are  about  6-25  Cm.  (2j  and 
sometimes  10  inches)  long,  about  five-angled,  narrow  cylindrical,  tapering  above,  hairy,  often 
curved,  and  contain  one  row  of  roundish  reniform  seeds  in  each  cell.  The  pericarp  abounds  in 
mucilage. 

Hibiscus  Abelmoschus,  Linn 6,  Abelmoschus  moschatus,  Moench , indigenous  to  India  and 
Egypt,  naturalized  in  tropical  America,  yields  Semen  abelmoschi  s.  Gratia  moschata — Musk-seed , 
E. ; Ambretta , Graine  de  muse , Fr. : Moschuskoerner , Bisamkoerner,  G. — These  seeds  are  flattish 
reniform,  about  3 Mm.  (-J  inch)  long,  grayish-brown,  concentrically  striate,  blackish  at  the  hilum, 
internally  whitish  and  oily,  and  have  a thin  endosperm  and  curved  embryo.  The  strong  musk- 
like odor  resides  in  the  testa,  and  becomes  more  apparent  on  rubbing  or  warming.  The  seeds 
are  used  in  perfumery  as  a substitute  for  musk.  The  distilled  oil  contains  acetic  and  palmitic 
acids,  and  when  freed  from  the  fat  aqid  remains  liquid  at  0°  C. 

Hibiscus  Sabdariffa,  Linne , Red  sorrel,  Rozelle,  E. ; Oseille  de  Guinee,  Ketrnie  acide,  Fr. — It 
is  indigenous  to  Africa,  and  cultivated  and  naturalized  in  the  tropics.  The  yellow  and  red  calyx 
is  provided  with  a twelve-cleft  light-red  involucre,  and  is  used  on  account  of  its  mucilage  and  free 
tartaric  and  malic  (or  oxalic?)  acids.  In  Mexico  and  in  Texas  it  is  known  as  Jamaica. 

Hibiscus  Rosa-sinensis,  Limit,  China  rose,  E.,  G. : Rose  de  Chine,  Fr. — Cultivated.  The  root 
is  used  in  the  East  like  marshmallow.  The  stein-bark  is  said  to  be  emmenagogue. 

Abutilon  avicennas,  Gcertner,  s.  Sida  Abutilon,  Linne , indigenous  to  India,  naturalized  in 
America,  and  known  as  velvet  leaf, The  roundish-cordate  leaves  and  yellow  flowers  are  muci- 
laginous. Abutilon  indicum,  Don,  is  employed  in  India. 


A LUMEN. 


161) 


Several  species  of  Hibiscus  yield  valuable  textile  fibres  ; also  several  species  of  Sida,  of  which 
genus  S.  cordifolia,  S.  spinosa,  Limit,  and  others  are  medicinally  used  in  India,  and  S.  floribunda, 
S.  rhombifolia,  Limit , and  others  in  South  America. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparations. — Species  altha^e.  Althea-leaves  100;  althea- 
root  50;  glycyrrhiza  25;  mallow-flowers  10  parts — P.  A. 

Species  emollientes.  Althea-leaves,  mallow-leaves,  melilot,  German  chamomile,  and 
flaxseed,  in  coarse  powder,  equal  parts. — P.  G.  Chamomile  is  omitted  and  flaxseed 
doubled  in  quantity  by  P.  A. 

Species  pectorales,  P.  G. ; Pectoral  tea,  E. ; Especes  pectorales,  Fr. ; Brustthee,  G. 
A mixture  of  cut  althea-root  8 parts,  peeled  liquorice-root  3,  orris-root  1,  colt’s-foot  leaves 
4,  mullein-flowers  2,  and  anise  2 parts. — P.  G.  Althea-leaves  200  ; glycyrrhiza  150  ; 
althea-root  50;  pearl  barley  50;  mullein-flowers  10;  mallow-flowers  10;  red  poppy  10; 
star-anise  10  parts. — P.  A.  Equal  parts  of  the  flowers  of  mallow,  marshmallow,  mouse- 
ear,  colt’s-foot,  red  poppy,  violet,  and  mullein. — F.  Cod.  Although  composed  of  seven 
flowers,  it  is  known  in  France  as  quatresfleurs. 

Action  and  Uses. — Marshallow  is  an  emollient  protective,  and  is  somewhat  nutri- 
tious. It  is  employed  in  Europe  as  a demulcent  in  all  inflammatory  and  irritable  condi- 
tions of  the  mucous  membrane  of  the  respiratory,  digestive,  and  urinary  organs,  and 
poultices  formed  of  the  bruised  or  powdered  root  are  applied  to  inflammations  of  the  skin 
and  local  eruptions — e.  g.  herpes,  palmar  psoriasis.  An  ointment  prepared  with  the  fresh 
leaves  is  well  adapted  to  these  purposes.  The  decoction  has  been  used  as  an  injection 
to  allay  irritation  of  the  vagina  and  of  the  rectum.  It  is  prepared  by  adding  the  sliced 
root  to  hot  water,  to  the  production  of  a mucilage  of  the  required  thickness.  The  root 
is  made  use  of  in  France,  as  orris-root  is  elsewhere,  for  teething  children  to  bite  upon. 
The  so-called  marshmallow  paste  contains  no  marshmallow.  All  the  other  plants  above 
enumerated  may  be  used,  like  marshmallow,  as  demulcents. 

Sida  floribunda  was  found  by  Martinet  of  Lima  to  possess  vermicidal  properties,  which 
he  attributes  to  the  mechanical  action  of  the  minute  stiff  spines  that  beset  its  leaves. 
He  was  indebted  for  this  alleged  discovery  to  the  instinct  of  a dog  (. Nouveaux  Remedes , 
Juill.  1887). 

ALUMEN,  V.  S.,  JP.  G.- Alum. 

Aluminii  etpotassii  sulphas , U.  S.  1870;  Sulphas  aluminico-po l assicus. — Potassium  alum , 
Aluminum  and  potassium  sulphate , E.  ; Alun , Sulfate  cValumineet  de  pofasse,  Fr. ; Alann, 
Ralialaun,  G. : Solfato  di  alluminio  e di potassio,  F.  It. ; Alumbre , Sp. 

Formula  K2A12(S04)424H20.  Molecular  weight  946.46. 

Alumen , Br. ; Alumini  et  ammonii  sulphas , Sulphas  aluminico-ammonicus. — Alum , Am- 
monium alum , E. ; Alun  ammonia  cal,  Fr. ; Ammoniakalaun,  G. 

Formula  (NH4)2A12(S04)424H20.  Molecular  weight  904.42. 

Origin. — Alums  are  compound  sulphates,  readily  crystallizing  in  cubes  and  octahe- 
drons of  the  regular  system,  and  containing  24  molecules  of  water  of  crystallization,  and 
2 atoms  each  of  a univalent  and  trivalent  basylous  radical.  The  most  important  trivalent 
radicals  which  are  capable  of  forming  alums  are  aluminum,  chromium,  and  iron,  and  the 
univalent  radicals  potassium,  sodium,  aud  ammonium.  Ordinarily,  the  name  alum  is  indis- 
criminately used  for  the  alumino-ammonium  and  for  the  alumino-potassium  alum,  both 
kinds  being  recognized  as  such  by  the  British  Pharmacopoeia,  while  the  United  States, 
French,  and  German  Pharmacopoeias  recognize  the  latter  only. 

Salts  possessing  a styptic  taste  (among  them  alum)  were  known  and  employed  in  ancient 
times.  In  the  Lipari  Islands  it  appears  to  have  been  found  as  the  product  of  disintegra- 
tion of  alum-stone  and  alum-slate,  and  in  the  sixth  century  B.  c.  it  was  employed  by  the 
Phoenicians  in  dyeing.  But  the  ancient  Greek  name,  stypteria , and  the  Latin,  alumen,  were 
given  alike  to  various  minerals  and  different  products,  and  afterward  the  latter  were  insuffi- 
ciently distinguished  for  many  centuries.  The  earthy  constituent  of  alum  was  first  shown 
by  Marggraf  (1754)  to  be  distinct  from  lime.  Agricola  and  Libavius  in  the  sixteenth 
century  had  recognized  the  necessity  of  using  putrid  urine  (ammonia  compounds)  for  the 
production  of  alum.  Marggraf  had  observed  that  alumina  and  sulphuric  acid  would  not 
produce  alum  until  after  the  addition  of  potash  ; but  the  existence  of  alkali  in  alum  was 
first  proven  by  Lavoisier  (1777),  and  by  Chaptal  and  Vauquelin  (1797 ),  the  latter  show- 
ing that  either  potash  or  ammonia  may  be  present.  Soda  alum  was  first  prepared  by 
Macintosh  at  the  beginning  of  the  present  century.  The  exact  composition  of  alum  was 
further  determined  by  Vauquelin,  Thenard,  Berzelius,  and  others. 


170 


A L U MEN. 


The  minerals  most  largely  used  in  the  manufacture  of  alum  are  alum-stone , or  alunite , 
and  alum-slate.  The  former  contains  aluminum  and  potassium  sulphates  and  aluminum 
hydroxide;  the  latter  consists  mainly  (about  two-thirds)  of  clay  or  aluminum  silicate,  the 
remainder  being  pyrites  (iron  sulphide)  and  bituminous  matter,  together  with  small  quan- 
tities of  lime,  manganese,  etc. 

Preparation. — When  calcined  clay  containing  but  little  iron  (pipe-clay)  is  treated 
with  sulphuric  acid  until  a pasty  mass  is  obtained,  this,  on  exposure  to  the  air,  will  be 
gradually  converted  into  aluminum  sulphate,  which  needs  merely  to  be  mixed,  while 
in  solution,  with  ammonium  or  potassium  sulphate  to  obtain  crystals  of  alum.  Previous 
to  calcination  the  clay  is  often  mixed  with  12  to  15  per  cent,  of  charcoal  or  coke,  after 
which  the  combination  with  the  sulphuric  acid  is  more  readily  effected.  This  is  one  of 
the  processes  employed  in  the  United  States,  where  alum  is  also  made  from  cryolite  by 
heating  it  with  strong  sulphuric  acid,  washing  with  a little  cold  water,  dissolving  the 
aluminum  sulphate  in  hot  water,  and  adding  potassium  or  ammonium  sulphate. 

To  prepare  alum  from  alum-stone,  this  is  calcined  and  then  made  into  heaps,  which  are 
kept  moist ; after  several  months  it  has  become  disintegrated  and  converted  into  alum, 
which  is  extracted  by  water  and  crystallized. 

Alum-slate  or  shale  is  broken  up  and  made  into  heaps,  which  are  exposed  to  the  air  for 
several  months  or  years ; or,  if  the  mineral  be  very  hard,  it  is  first  subjected  to  a process 
of  slow  roasting  by  stratifying  it  with  wood  or  coal,  setting  fire  to  the  heaps,  and  covering 
it  more  or  less  in  order  to  prevent  too  great  a rise  of  temperature.  During  the  exposure 
the  sulphur  of  the  pyrites  is  oxidized  to  sulphuric  acid,  aluminum  and  iron  sulphates 
being  formed,  which  are  obtained  in  solution  by  lixiviating  the  heaps  with  water.  This 
solution  is  concentrated,  and  while  hot  mixed  with  potassium  chloride,  which,  reacting 
with  the  ferric  sulphate,  yields  potassium  sulphate  and  ferric  chloride,  the  latter  remain- 
ing in  solution  in  the  mother-liquor,  from  which  the  alum  separates  on  cooling  as  a crys- 
talline powder.  If  the  lixivium  of  the  alum-heaps  does  not  contain  sufficient  ferric  sul- 
phate, the  potassium  chloride  is  partly  replaced  by  the  sulphate.  It  is  obvious  that  by 
this  process  potassium  alum  is  obtained,  or  ammonium  alum  if  the  corresponding  am- 
monium compound  is  substituted  for  the  potassium  salt.  The  alum  is  purified  by  one  or 
two  recrystallizations,  the  last  one  being  performed  in  large  vats  which  can  be  taken  apart. 

The  potassium  chloride  necessary  in  this  process  is  obtained  as  soap-boiler’s  waste  and 
as  the  refuse  of  saltpetre-refineries.  The  ammonium  sulphate  is  cheaply  obtained  from 
the  liquor  of  gas-works. 

Alum  is  extensively  manufactured  in  the  United  States,  but  its  consumption  in  the  arts 
is  so  great  that  over  8,500,000  pounds  of  the  different  commercial  kinds  were  imported 
in  1878,  the  importation  having  been  reduced  since  1880  to  less  than  2,500,000  pounds. 

Properties. — The  two  official  alums  are  similar  in  every  respect,  except  that  the 
ammonium  alum  gives  the  odor  of  ammonia  on  the  addition  of  an  excess  of  potassium 
hydroxide  or  carbonate,  and,  when  heated  to  full  redness,  leaves  finally  alumina.  Potas- 
sium alum,  at  a white  heat,  leaves  a mixture  of  alumina  and  potassium  sulphate;  but  if 
mixed  with  one-third  its  weight  of  sugar  or  similar  organic  matter,  the  mixture  carbon- 
ized and  afterward  heated  to  redness  in  a flask,  contact  with  air  being  avoided,  a powder 
known  as  Homberg' s pgrophorus  is  obtained,  which  consists  of  an  intimate  mixture  of 
alumina,  charcoal,  and  potassium  sulphide,  and  which  ignites  spontaneously  on  exposure 
to  the  air. 

Alum  crystallizes  in  colorless,  inodorous,  transparent  regular  octahedrons,  which  are 
usually  combined  with  the  cube.  Its  specific  gravity  is  1.724 — of  ammonium  alum,  only 
1.631.  It  has  an  acidulous  sweetish  and  astringent  taste,  and  an  acid  reaction  to  test- 
paper.  Its  aqueous  solution  dissolves  iron,  zinc,  and  other  metals  which  are  soluble  in 
diluted  sulphuric  acid,  with  the  evolution  of  hydrogen.  It  is  insoluble  in  alcohol  or  ether, 
effloresces  slightly  on  exposure  to  the  air,  losing  at  40°  C.  (104°  F.)  2.7  per  cent.,  and 
at  47°  C.  (116.6°  F.)  9.6  per  cent,  of  water;  when  heated  to  about  92°  C.  (197.6°  F.) 
it  fuses,  and  loses  all  of  its  water  of  crystallization  (45.52  per  cent.)  at  200°  C.  (392°  F.), 
leaving  a voluminous  white  mass.  (See  Alumen  exsiccatum).  Ammonium  alum 
loses  all  its  water  of  crystallization  (47.6  per  cent.)  at  above  205°  C.  (401°  F.).  At  a 
full  red  heat  both  are  decomposed,  but  to  effect  the  complete  decomposition  of  potassium 
alum  a white  heat  is  required,  when  sulphuric  and  sulphurous  anhydride  and  oxygen 
are  given  off.  According  to  Poggiale  (1843),  100  parts  of  water  dissolve  at — 

0°  10°  20°  30°  40°  50°  80°  100°  C. 

Ammonium  alum,  5.22  9.16  13.66  19.29  27.27  36.51  103.08  421.9  parts. 

Potassium  alum,  3.9  9.52  15.13  22.01  30.92  44.11  134.47  357.48  “ 


.4  L U MEN. 


171 


Tlie  determinations  made  by  Mulder  (1864)  closely  agree  with  those  of  Poggiale  for 
ammonium  alum,  but  differ  considerably  for  potassium  alum.  1 part  of  the  latter,  accord- 
ing to  Redtenbacher  (1865),  dissolves  at  17°  C.  (62.6°  F.)  in  7.41  parts,  and,  according 
to  Poggiale,  at  20°  C.  (68°  F.)  in  6.61  parts,  and  at  10°  C.  (50°  F.)  in  10.5  parts  of 
water ; this  last  figure  is  given  by  both  the  British  and  German  Pharmacopoeias  as  the 
solubility  of  alum  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  while  Mulder’s  results  at  the  same  temperature  are 
10.9  parts. 

The  U.  S.  Pharm.  gives  the  solubility  of  potassium  alum  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  at  1 in  9 
parts  of  water,  and  as  3 in  1 part  of  boiling  water ; it  is  also  freely  soluble  in  warm 
glycerin. 

Tests. — The  alkalies  and  alkali  carbonates  precipitate  white  gelatinous  aluminum 
hydroxide,  which  is  insoluble  in  ammonia  and  the  carbonated  alkalies,  but  dissolves  in 
an  excess  of  caustic  soda  and  potassa.  Commercial  alum  always  contains  a little  iron, 
from  which  it  cannot  be  completely  freed  by  recrystallization.  It  is  owing  to  its  presence 
that  solutions  of  alum  become  blue  on  the  addition  of  potassium  ferrocyanicle.  and  yield  a 
grayish  precipitate  with  ammonium  sulphide.  The  limit  of  this  impurity  is  thus  ascer- 
tained : A solution  of  1 6m.  of  alum  in  20  Cc.  of  water  should  not  at  once  assume  a 
blue  color  on  the  addition  of  5 drops  of  test-solution  of  potassium  ferrocyanide. — U.  S. 
The  German  Pharmacopoeia  requires  the  same  limit.  The  solution  of  alum  in  caustic 
potassa  or  soda  should  not  give  off  the  odor  of  ammonia  (absence  of  more  than  traces  of 
ammonium  alum),  nor  should  it  yield  a precipitate  with  hydrogen  or  ammonium  sulphide 
(absence  of  zinc  and  other  metals). 

Action  and  Uses. — Primarily,  alum  constringes  all  organic  fibres,  and  hence  tends 
to  diminish  blood-supply  and  secretion  in  living  parts ; but,  secondarily,  it  increases  both 
as  a result  of  its  continued  use.  This  operation  it  is  of  the  utmost  importance  to 
remember  in  its  therapeutical  applications.  It  is  said  to  exert  a destructive  action  upon 
the  enamel  of  the  teeth.  Alum  is  absorbed  from  the  stomach,  and  is  found  in  the  urine, 
liver,  and  spleen  (Orfila)  ; but  its  local  action  is  that  of  an  irritant,  whereby  it  readily 
excites  vomiting  when  freely  administered.  Its  operation  is  not  violent,  however,  and  it 
does  not  occasion  nausea.  In  other  words,  it  is  a mechanical  emetic. 

Alum  is  of  advantage  in  severe  haemorrhages,  and  particularly  in  those  of  a passive 
type.  Thus,  in  gastric  and  intestinal  haemorrhages  its  efficacy  will  depend  upon  whether 
the  blood  is  rapidly  or  slowly  extravasated  ; in  pulmonary  haemorrhage,  which  is  generally 
active,  its  efficiency  is  not  very  great ; while  in  menorrhagia  and  haematuria  it  is  appro- 
priately and  beneficially  employed.  In  various  fluxes  its  astringent  operation  is  advan- 
tageous. In  gastric  and  intestinal  catarrh  it  represses  the  secretion  of  mucus  and  the 
vomiting  or  diarrhoea  that  results  therefrom.  The  diarrhoea  of  typhoid  fever  is  better 
treated  by  alum  than  by  any  other  astringent,  except,  perhaps,  acetate  of  lead.  In  chronic 
dysentery  it  is  a valuable  remedy  for  occasional  use,  and  even  in  the  acute  form  of  the 
disease  alum  enemata  have  been  found  efficient.  In  other  fluxes  it  may  lessen  the  dis- 
charge, as  in  diabetes , but  its  utility  is  not  very  great.  In  diabetes  insipidus  or  polyuria 
it  would  probably  be  more  useful.  Formerly,  it  had  much  repute  in  chronic  bronchial 
fluxes , and  it  is  still  found  advantageous  in  diminishing  excessive  secretion  from  the 
air-passages,  and  not  merely  in  chronic  but  also  in  acute  bronchitis,  and  especially  in  that 
form  which  occurs  as  an  element  of  whooping  cough  and  is  attended  with  a profuse 
expectoration  of  ropy  mucus.  Probably  its  utility  is  due  to  its  action  in  constringing  the 
mucous  membrane  at  the  orifice  of  the  larynx  and  blunting  its  sensibility.  Strangely 
enough  from  a rational  point  of  view,  some  forms  of  constipation  are  favorably  affected 
by  alum,  as. that  in  which  the  condition  depends  upon  atony  of  the  bowels  maintained  by 
habitual  distension  of  them  by  flatus.  It  is  still  more  singular  that  in  lead  colic , a dis- 
ease in  which  the  intestine  is  spasmodically  contracted,  alum  has  been  proved  efficient  in 
overcoming  the  constipation.  For  this  purpose  it  should  be  given  in  doses  of  from  Gm. 
4-12  (3j-iij)  daily,  dissolved  in  a large  quantitity  of  water  slightly  acidulated  with  sul- 
phuric acid.  As  an  emetic  alum  may  be  employed  whenever  mechanical  emetics  are 
indicated,  and  particularly  in  pseudo-membranous  laryngitis , or  true  croup , a disease  in 
which  such  emetics  are  pecularly  indicated,  but  in  which  nauseants  are  exceedingly  mis- 
chievous. In  narcotic  poisoning  similar  evacuants  are  indicated,  and  none  is  better  than 
alum,  especially  in  children.  It  probably  operates  not  only  as  an  emetic,  but  by  its 
astringent  action  on  the  gastric  mucous  membrane  it  checks  the  absorption  of  the  poison. 
Alum  is  one  of  the  many  remedies  that  occasionally  cure  intermittent  fever , even  after 
the  failure  of  quinine.  It  is  still  used  in  India,  where  burnt  alum  is  preferred,  and 
given  by  some  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.50  (gr.  viij)  three  hours  before  the  expected  paroxysm, 


172 


ALU  MEN. 


while  others  prescribe  powdered  alum,  from  50  to  100  grains  a day,  divided  into  six  doses 
(Uhle,  Bull,  de  Therap .,  cix.  229). 

The  topical  uses  of  alum  are  numerous.  It  is  extensively  employed  to  arrest  hemor- 
rhage. As  a local  haemostatic  it  is  used  to  check  bleeding  from  the  nostrils,  gums,  anus, 
vagina,  bladder,  and  rectum,  from  leech-bites  and  from  the  sockets  of  extracted  teeth, 
etc.  In  all  such  cases  it  may  be  applied  in  powder  or  in  a strong  solution  upon  sponge 
or  lint.  The  solution  should  be  used  warm,  and  allowed  to  cool  where  it  is  applied. 
Lotions  of  alum-water  are  useful  in  repressing  local  and  general  sweats , and  particularly 
the  fetid  secretions  of  the  feet,  armpits,  etc. ; the  solution  should  not  be  strong,  and 
should  be  applied  warm  ; it  is  improved  by  the  addition  of  salicylic  acid.  In  oph- 
thalmia a solution  of  Gm.  0.25  (gr.  iv-v)  to  the  ounce  of  water  may  be  instilled  into 
the  eye,  but  a much  better  method  is  to  apply  a poultice  made  by  stirring  finely  powdered 
alum  and  white  of  egg  together,  and  enclosing  the  coagulated  albumen  in  a cambric  bag. 
This  application  is  a most  excellent  one  for  recent  ecchymoses.  Aphonia  from  laryngeal 
atony  is  diminished  by  gargles  of  a drachm  of  alum  or  Gm.  4 in  Gm.  100  (gj  in  f^iij)  of 
barley-water  ; and  the  same  remedy  is  of  constant  use  for  the  relief  of  sore  throat , espe- 
cially of  that  form  of  tonsillitis  in  which  the  soft  parts  are  tumid.  In  the  graver  forms 
of  angina , and  especially  in  diphtheria  and  gangrenous  pharyngitis , gargles,  insufflations, 
and  atomized  solutions  of  alum  have  been  much  employed  ; they  probaby  tend  to  promote 
the  separation  of  the  exudation,  if  not  to  check  its  formation.  As  far  as  the  local  treat- 
ment of  the  diseases  in  question  goes,  alum  is  useful,  although  less  so  than  other  agents ; 
but  they,  and  especially  diphtheria,  are  not  merely  local  affections,  and  cannot  be  cured 
by  such  treatment  alone.  Alum  washes  are  useful  in  all  the  forms  of  stomatitis , but 
especially  in  the  ulcerative  form.  In  subacute,  in  mild  acute,  and  in  chronic  laryngitis 
gargles  containing  alum  are  of  decided  advantage,  but  the  medicine  is  still  more  useful 
when  it  is  applied  to  the  interior  of  the  larynx  in  an  atomized  solution.  Finely- 
powdered  alum  or  burnt  alum  is  one  of  the  best  applications  for  ingrowing  teeth,  as  when 
a posterior  molar  tooth  of  the  lower  jaw  becomes  partially  covered  by  the  gum,  subject- 
ing it  to  contusion  and  irritation  and  producing  a very  painful  sore.  The  overhanging 
flesh  should  be  first  cut  away  with  a gum-lancet.  In  the  analogous  affection,  ingrown 
toe-nail , the  same  application  is  of  great  use  if  ulceration  with  granulation  has  already 
taken  place ; but  it  is  essential  that  scraped  lint  should  be  introduced  between  the  nail 
and  the  sore,  and  that  the  movement  of  the  parts  should  be  restricted  by  a narrow  roller 
of  adhesive  plaster.  The  stimulant  and  astringent  action  of  alum  makes  it  a useful 
application  in  chilblains.  In  all  cases  of  morbid  and  exuberant  action  of  mucous  mem- 
branes besides  those  above  noticed  alum  renders  important  services.  For  indolent 
ulcers , whether  arising  from  burns  or  otherwise,  and  for- all  profuse  mucous  and  purulent 
discharges  from  mucous  membranes,  when  the  inflammatory  element  is  not  active  and  the 
parts  are  relaxed,  it  is  one  of  the  best  remedies.  Its  efficacy  is  shown  conspicuously  in 
cases  of  relaxation  of  the  gnms , uvula , pharynx , vagina , and  anus.  In  vaginal  leucorrhoea 
alum  injections  are  better  than  any  others,  and  washes  of  the  same  in  leucorrhoea  of  the 
vulva.  In  the  former  of  these  two  affections  a tampon  of  cotton  coated  with  finely- 
powdered  alum  may  be  applied  by  means  of  a speculum,  or  a cylinder  of  cotton  cloth 
saturated  with  a solution  of  alum,  of  which  the  strength  should  vary  with  the  grade  of 
inflammation  present.  Injections  of  a solution  of  alum  may  be  used  in  the  treatment  of 
gonorrhoea  and  gleet  in  the  male,  a weak  solution  being  generally  the  most  efficient.  Some 
physicians,  however,  give  a preference  to  a saturated  solution.  A mixture  of  alum, 
mucilage,  and  sulphuric  ether  has  been  applied  to  carious  cavities  for  the  relief  of 
toothache. 

Administration. — Alum  may  be  administered  internally  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.30- 
2.60  (gr.  v-xl),  mixed  with  powdered  sugar  or  with  syrup.  A few  grains  of  some 
aromatic  prevent  its  nauseating  effects.  The  emetic  dose  is  Gm.  4-8  (3j-ij)  given  in 
syrup  ; when  retching  commences  vomiting  may  b'e  promoted  by  warm  water.  Alum 
whey  is  made  by  boiling  Gm.  8 (^ij)  of  powdered  alum  in  a pint  of  milk,  and  straining; 
the  curd  left  behind  is  applicable  to  the  purposes  already  mentioned,  and  may  be  prepared 
with  white  of  egg  instead  of  milk.  Alum  gargles  are  made  with  Gm.  15-30  (^ss-j) 
of  alum  in  a pint  of  water,  which  may  be  sweetened  with  honey.  Vaginal  injections 
may  be  used  of  about  the  same  strength.  As  in  the  case  of  other  irritants  employed  in 
this  manner,  care  must  be  taken  not  to  throw  the  injection  into  the  uterus.  For  collyria 
a solution  of  Gm.  0.10-0.20  (gr.  ij-iij)  of  alum  in  an  ounce  of  water  is  usually  suf- 
cient ; for  hemostatic  uses  a hot  saturated  solution  is  preferable. 

Aceto-tartrate  of  aluminum  is  caustic  and  disinfectant.  It  has  been  employed  in  watery 


A LUMEN  EXSICCA  TUM.—A  L UMTNT  HYDRAS. 


173 


solution  in  various  affections  of  the  face,  nostrils,  and  pharynx.  It  may  be  applied  on  a 
mop  in  a 25  per  cent,  watery  solution,  or  mixed  with  an  equal  quantity  of  some  inert 
powder  (Holste). 

ALUMEN  EXSICCATUM,  U.  S.,  Br.— Dried  Alum. 

Alumeii  iistum,  P.  G. — Burnt  alum , E. ; Alun  calcine,  A.  desseche , A.  brule , Fr. ; Ge- 
brannter  Almui , G.  ; Allumeusto , It. 

Formula  K2A12(S04)4.  Molecular  weight  515.42. 

Preparation. — Alum,  in  small  pieces,  100  Gin.  ; to  make  55  Gm.  Place  the  alum 
in  a shallow  porcelain  capsule,  so  as  to  form  a thin  layer,  and  heat  it  on  a sand-bath 
until  it  liquefies.  Then  continue  the  application  of  a moderate  heat,  with  constant  stir- 
ring, until  aqueous  vapor  ceases  to  be  disengaged,  and  a dry,  white,  porous  mass  is 
obtained,  weighing  55  grammes.  When  cold,  reduce  the  product  to  a fine  powder,  and 
preserve  it  in  well-stoppered  bottles. — U.  S. 

The  British  Pharm.  gives  the  same  process,  simply  adding  that  the  temperature  shall 
not  be  allowed  to  rise  above  204.4°  C.  (400°  F.). 

Properties. — After  exsiccation,  dried  alum  forms  a light  porous  mass  which  is  easily 
rubbed  into  a white  granular  powder.  It  is  very  slowly  (but  completely)  soluble  in  cold 
water,  20  parts,  U.  S.,  30  parts  P.  G.,  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  but  dissolves  in  a short  time 
in  seven-tenths  of  its  weight  of  boiling  water  (£7!  $.),  these  tests  being  sufficient  to  prove 
its  faultless  preparation.  Owing  to  its  slow  solubility,  its  taste  is  at  first  slight,  but  soon 
becomes  more  styptic  than  that  of  crystallized  alum.  Impurities  may  be  detected  in  the 
same  manner  as  in  alum. 

Action  and  Uses. — Dried  alum  is  a powerful  astringent  and  stimulant,  and  when 
applied  to  tissues  in  process  of  growth  may  become  escharotic.  Hence,  as  was  more 
particularly  pointed  out  in  the  preceding  article,  it  is  used  to  repress  fungous  granulations 
and  stimulate  indolent  and  sanious  ulcers , as  well  as  mucous  membranes  tending  to 
hypertrophy,  and  with  morbid  secretions.  Powdered  dried  alum  is  peculiarly  fitted  for 
insufflation. 


ALUMINI  HYDRAS,  U.  -Aluminum  Hydrate. 

Alumina  hydrata,  P.  G.  1872 ; Argilla  pura  s.  hydrata. — Aluminum  hydroxidef 
Hydrated  alumina , E. ; Hydrate  d'alumine,  Fr. ; Thonerdehydrat,  G. 

Formula  Al2(OH)6.  Molecular  weight  155.84. 

Origin. — Aluminum  hydroxide  is  occasionally  found  native,  forming  the  rare  crys- 
talline mineral  gibbsite , Al2(OH)6,  of  North  America,  and  diaspore , A12(0H)202,  of 
Eastern  Europe.  For  use  in  medicine  it  is  prepared  by  precipitating  the  solution  of  an 
aluminum  salt  with  an  alkali  or  alkali  carbonate.  Alumina  is  more  frequently  found  in 
the  ashes  of  cryptogamous  plants  than  those  of  phaenogams. 

Preparation. — Alum  ioo  Gm.  ; Sodium  Carbonate  100  Gm. ; Distilled  Water  a 
sufficient  quantity.  Dissolve  each  salt  in  1000  cubic  centimeters  of  distilled  water; 
filter  the  solutions  and  heat  them  to  boiling.  Then,  having  poured  the  hot  solution  of 
sodium  carbonate  into  a capacious  vessel,  gradually  pour  in  the  hot  solution  of  alum 
with  constant  stirring,  and  add  an  equal  volume  of  boiling  distilled  water.  Let  the  pre- 
cipitate subside,  decant  the  clear  liquid,  and  pour  upon  the  precipitate  2000  Cc.  of  hot 
distilled  water.  Again  decant,  transfer  the  precipitate  to  a strainer,  and  wash  it  with 
hot  distilled  water  until  the  washings  give  but  a faint  cloudiness  with  test-solution  of 
barium  chloride.  Then  allow  it  to  drain,  dry  it  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  40°  C. 
(104°  F.),  and  reduce  it  to  a uniform  powder. — U.  S. 

On  mixing  solutions  of  sodium  carbonate  and  alum  a decomposition  takes  place,  result- 
ing in  the  formation  of  sodium  sulphate  and  potassium  sulphate,  which  remain  in  solu- 
tion ; aluminum  hydroxide,  which  is  precipitated;  and  carbon  dioxide,  which  escapes ; 
3Na2C03  + A12K2(S04)4  -f  3H20  yields  3Na2S04  + K2S04  + A12(0H)6  + 3C02.  If 
ammonium  alum  be  used,  ammonium  sulphate  remains  in  solution  in  place  of  potassium 
sulphate ; the  sodium  carbonate  may  be  replaced  by  an  equivalent  quantity  of  potassium 
or  ammonium  carbonate.  On  adding  the  alkali  carbonate  to  the  alum  solution  the  pre- 
cipitated aluminum  hydroxide  persistently  retains  sulphuric  acid  and  alkali ; but  on  slowly 
adding  the  alum  solution  to  the  alkali  carbonate,  so  that  the  latter  remains  continually 
in  excess,  only  a minute  amount  of  basic  sulphate  will  enter  into  the  precipitate,  and  will 
be  almost  completely  decomposed  by  digesting  the  latter  with  the  alkaline  liquid.  In 


174 


A L IT  MINI  HYDRAS. 


order  to  obtain  it  absolutely  free  from  sulphate,  Berzelius  found  it  necessary  to  redissolve 
the  washed  aluminum  hydroxide  in  hydrochloric  acid,  and  to  precipitate  this  solution 
with  an  excess  of  ammonia.  For  the  washing  of  the  precipitate  hot  (not  boiling)  water 
is  directed — a precaution  necessary  to  avoid  decomposition  of  the  hydroxide.  Sainte- 
Gille  (1855)  determined  that  by  prolonged  contact  with  boiling  water  the  hydroxide, 
A12(0H)202,  is  formed,  which  is  insoluble  in  dilute  acids.  Drying  the  aluminum  hydrox- 
ide at  a low  temperature  leaves  it  in  a smooth  condition  and  prevents  it  from  becoming 
gritty.  Most  of  the  details  of  the  above  process  were  elaborated  by  Prof.  Lloyd  (1879). 
The  yield  is  1.8  parts. 

Nearly  pure  aluminum  hydroxide  is  prepared  from  cryolite.  The  sodium  aluminate 
obtained  in  the  manufacture  of  sodium  carbonate  (see  Sodii  Carbonas)  is  treated  with 
milk  of  lime,  resulting  in  the  production  of  sodium  hydroxide  and  a precipitate  of  calcium 
aluminate  (see  Soda)  ; on  dissolving  a portion  of  the  latter  in  hydrochloric  acid,  chlorides 
of  aluminum  and  calcium  are  formed,  and  this  solution,  on  being  digested  with  another 
portion  of  the  precipitate,  yields  more  calcium  chloride,  which  remains  in  solution,  and 
aluminum  hydroxide  : A12C16  + Al2(02Ca)3  + 6H20  yields  3CaCl2  + 2A12(0H)6. 

Properties. — Aluminum  hydroxide  is  “ a white,  light,  amorphous  powder,  permanent 
in  dry  air,  odorless,  and  tasteless  and  insoluble  in  water  or  alcohol ; soluble  without 
residue,  in  (dilute)  hydrochloric  or  sulphuric  acid,  and  also  in  solution  of  potassa  or  of 
soda.  When  heated  to  redness  it  loses  34.6  per  cent,  of  water  of  hydration.” — U.  S. 
A portion  of  the  water  is  given  off  already  at  a temperature  a little  above  100°  C.  (212° 
F.),  but  for  expelling  the  last  10  or  12  per  cent,  of  it  a full  red  heat  is  required,  when 
aluminum,  oxide , A1203,  is  obtained.  Its  solution  in  a mineral  acid  is  not  precipitated  or 
colored  by  hydrogen  sulphide,  and  shows  toward  alkalies  and  alkali  carbonates  the 
behavior  described  under  Alumen.  When  added  to  a turbid  or  colored  liquid  the 
impurities  suspended  and  the  coloring  matter  contained  therein  are  precipitated  ; freshl}’- 
precipitated  aluminum  hydroxide  ( alumine  enyelee , Fr.)  is  best  adapted  for  this  purpose; 
hence  its  use  for  the  clarification  of  vegetable  juices  and  the  preparation  of  lakes,  which 
consist  of  aluminum  hydroxide  united  with  and  tinged  by  pigments. 

Tests. — Aluminum  hydroxide  is  liable  to  be  contaminated  with  alkali  carbonate  or 
sulphate  and  a trace  of  iron  derived  from  the  alum  ; zinc  and  other  metals  can  only  be 
present  through  great  carelessness.  The  allowable  limits  of  these  impurities  are  thus 
ascertained  : A solution  of  1 Gm.  of  aluminum  hydroxide  in  20  Cc.  of  diluted  hydrochloric 
acid  should  not  be  colored  blue  by  a drop  of  test-solution  of  potassium  ferrocyanide 
(iron),  and  should  not  give  more  than  a faint  cloudiness  with  test-solution  of  barium 
chloride  (limit  of  sulphate).  When  dissolved  in  solution  of  potassa  or  of  soda  it  should 
yield  no  precipitate  with  hydrogen  sulphide  (zinc  or  lead).  When  boiled  with  20  parts 
of  water  and  filtered,  the  filtrate  should  not  leave  more  than  a slight  residue  on  evapor- 
ation (limit  of  salts  of  alkalies). — U S.  The  presence  of  calcium  compounds  is  deter- 
mined by  dissolving  the  aluminum  hydroxide  in  diluted  hydrochloric  acid,  precipitating 
the  solution  with  an  excess  of  ammonia,  adding  to  the  filtrate  ammonium  carbonate,  and 
boiling,  when  carbonate  of  calcium  and  of  other  alkaline  earths  will  be  precipitated. 

Allied  Compounds. — Corundum,  E.,  Corindon,  Fr .,  Korund,  G.,  is  a mineral  consisting  of 
A1203.  It  varies  in  color,  forms  rhombohedric  crystals,  is  nearly  as  hard  as  diamond,  and  has 
the  specific  gravity  3.9.  Transparent  varieties  of  it  are  the  gems  ruby  (rubis,  Fr.,  Rubin,  G .), 
which  is  colored  red  by  chromium  ; the  sapphire  (saphir,  Fr.,  G.),  which  is  blue,  or  if  yellow  is 
known  as  Oriental  topaz , if  green  as  Oriental  emerald , and  if  violet-colored  as  Oriental  amethyst. 
A coarse  variety  of  corundum  is  known  as — 

Lapis  smiridis,  s.  smyris  ; Emery,  E. ; Emeril,  Corindon  granuleux  ferrifkre,  Fr. ; Smirgel, 
Schmirgel,  G.  Its  English  and  French  names  are  derived  from  Cape  Emeri  on  the  island  of 
Naxos,  where  the  mineral  has  been  mined  from  ancient  times.  It  is  also  found  in  other  parts 
of  Europe  and  in  the  United  States.  Owing  to  its  hardness,  it  is  largely  employed  for  cutting 
and  polishing  glass,  metals,  and  other  hard  substances,  and  is  prepared  for  this  purpose  by 
crushing  under  stampers,  sifting,  and,  for  delicate  operations,  by  elutriation.  Its  color  varies 
between  gray,  bluish,  and  brown. 

The  metal  aluminum  was  first  obtained  by  Woehler  (1827)  by  fusing  aluminum 
chloride  together  with  potassium.  St.  Claire-Deville  (1854)  was  enabled  to  prepare  it 
in  larger  quantities  by  heating  a mixture  of  100  parts  of  aluminum  sodium  chloride,  35 
parts  of  sodium,  aud  40  parts  of  cryolite.  Of  late  years,  metallic  aluminum  has  been 
prepared  by  electrolysis  of  the  double  chloride  before  mentioned  (AlCl3.NaCl)  ; and 
recently  a still  more  promising  process  has  been  patented,  which  consists  in  the  elec- 
trolysis of  aluminum  oxide,  in  the  form  of  corundum,  in  a bath  of  molten  cryolite  con- 
tained in  carbon  crucibles.  Pure  aluminum  resembles  tin  in  appearance  ; its  specific 


ALUMISI  SULPHAS. 


175 


gravity  varies  between  2.50  and  2.79.  It  is  very  ductile,  melts  at  about  700°  C.  (1292° 
F.),  is  not  volatile,  and  is  not  tarnished  on  exposure,  even  at  an  elevated  temperature ; 
but  in  the  form  of  powder  or  thin  foil  it  burns  to  alumina  when  heated  in  oxygen,  and 
slowly  evolves  hydrogen  with  boiling  water. 

Action  and  Uses. — Hydrate  of  aluminum  appears  to  resemble  the  oxide  of  bismuth 
and  also  magnesia  in  its  action  and  uses.  Like  the  former,  it  is  absorbent  and  protective, 
and,  like  the  latter,  antacid.  It  is  suitable  for  the  treatment  of  dyspepsia  and  of  diarrhoea 
when  they  depend  upon  an  excess  of  acid  in  the  digestive  canal.  In  Germany  it  is 
used  in  infantile  disorders  of  the  stomach  and  bowels.  It  may  be  given  in  doses  of  from 
Grm.  0.20-0.40  (gr.  iij-vj).  It  may  be  applied  externally  as  a substitute  for  oxide  of 
zinc,  oxide  of  bismuth,  and  similar  protectives  in  cases  of  intertrigo , superficial  hums,  etc. 


ALUMINI  SULPHAS,  77.  S. — Aluminum  Sulphate. 

Aluminium  sulfuricum , P.  G. — Sulfate  d'alumine,  Fr.  ; Aluminiumsulfat , Schwefel- 
saure  Thonerde , G. 

Formula  (crystallized)  A12(S04)3  + 16H20.  Molecular  weight  628.9. 

Preparation. — Aluminum  sulphate  is  occasionally  found  as  an  efflorescence  near 
volcanoes  and  upon  alum-slate.  For  medicinal  use  it  should  be  prepared  from  alumi- 
num hydroxide,  which  need  not  be  previously  dried,  by  dissolving  it  in  the  requisite 
quantity  of  dilute  sulphuric  acid.  6 parts  of  strong  sulphuric  acid,  diluted  with  35  to 
40  parts  of  water,  will  be  sufficient  for  combining  with  the  aluminum  hydroxide  obtained 
by  the  process  described  under  Alumini  Hydras  from  19  parts  of  ammonium  alum  or 
20  parts  of  potassium  alum  ; the  gelatinous  hydroxide  will  dissolve  quite  readily.  The 
solution  is  filtered,  and  evaporated  until  a pellicle  begins  to  form,  when  the  vessel  should 
be  removed  to  a water-bath  and  the  evaporation  continued  until  a dry  salt  remains. 
Several  soluble  and  insoluble  basic  aluminum  sulphates  being  known  to  exist,  an  excess 
of  aluminum  hydroxide  should  be  avoided.  Quite  as  objectionable,  or  still  more  so,  is 
an  excess  of  sulphuric  acid ; the  total  absence  of  uncombined  acid  is  readily  ascertained 
by  testing  the  clear  solution  with  sodium  thiosulphate,  when  it  should  not  become  tur- 
bid by  the  separation  of  sulphur,  and  should  not  evolve  sulphur  dioxide. 

For  use  in  the  arts  aluminum  sulphate  is  prepared  by  heating  ammonium  alum  to  a 
dull-red  heat,  when  the  ammonium  sulphate  is  decomposed  and  expelled,  leaving  anhy- 
drous aluminum  sulphate  ; or  it  is  made  from  shale  and  other  aluminous  silicates,  and  is 
known  to  dyers  as  concentrated  alum  or  cake-alum. 

Properties. — Aluminum  sulphate  may,  with  some  difficulty,  be  obtained  in  thin 
pearly  lamellar  crystals,  but  usually  forms  a white  crystalline  mass  or  granular  powder. 
It  melts  readily  in  its  water  of  crystallization,  and  loses  it  completely  when  heated  to 
about  200°  C.  (392°  F.),  leaving  54.3  per  cent,  of  a light  porous  mass,  consisting  of  the 
anhydrous  salt,  A12(S04):{.  When  heated  to  bright  redness,  oxygen  and  sulphuric  acid 
are  given  off,  and  alumina  is  finally  left.  The  salt  is  quite  freely  soluble  in  water,  1.2 
parts  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  U.  S.,  and  P.  G.,  the  solution  having  an  acid  reaction  to  test- 
paper  ; according  to  Poggiale  (1843),  100  parts  of  water  dissolve — 

At  0°  10°  20°  30°  40°  50°  60°  80°  100°  C. 

86.85  95.8  107.35  127.6  167.6  201.4  262.6  467.3  1132  parts. 

Anhydrous  aluminum  sulphate  is  less  freely  soluble  in  water.  The  dilute  aqueous  solution 
of  the  crystallized  salt  is  precipitated  by  alcohol  in  pearly  flakes,  having  the  composition 
Al2(SO4)310H2O,  which,  according  to  Hauer  (1854),  attract  water  on  exposure  to  a 
damp  atmosphere  and  are  converted  into  the  official  salt.  This  has  an  acid,  styptic,  and, 
at  the  same  time,  sweetish  taste.  Its  aqueous  solution  shows  the  presence  of  sulphuric 
acid  by  barium  chloride  ; it  is  precipitated  by  caustic  potassa  or  soda,  the  precipitate 
being  soluble  in  an  excess,  but  is  again  separated  upon  addition  of  sufficient  ammonium 
chloride  solution. 

Tests. — The  salt  generally  contains  a small  quantity  of  sodium  or  other  alkali  sul- 
phate, and  often  a trace  of  iron,  derived  from  the  alum.  The  allowable  limit  of  the 
latter  impurity  is  thus  determined  : A solution  of  1 Gm.  of  the  salt  in  20  Cc.  of  water 
should  not  at  once  give  a blue  color  with  5 drops  of  test-solution  of  potassium  ferro- 
cyanide.  A 10  per  cent,  solution  of  the  salt  should  not  be  affected  by  hydrogen  sulphide 
(absence  of  zinc,  lead,  or  copper),  nor  should  it  show  more  than  a slight  opalescence 


176 


ALUM  INI  SULPHAS. 


within  five  minutes  with  an  equal  volume  of  decinormal  sodium  thiosulphate  solution 
(limit  of  free  acid).  1 Gm.  of  the  salt  gently  heated  with  5 Cc.  of  solution  of  soda  or 
potassa  should  not  evolve  the  odor  of  ammonia. — U.  S. 

Other  Preparations  of  Aluminum. — Alumini  Acetas. — Aluminum  acetate,  E. ; Acetate 
d’  alumine,  Fr.  ; Aluminium  acetat,  G .,  A12(C2H302)6-|-Aq.— Prepared  by  dissolving  aluminum 
hydroxide  in  cold  acetic  acid ; or  by  decomposing  aluminum  sulphate  with  lead  acetate,  and 
evaporating  at  a low  temperature,  it  is  obtained  as  a gum-like  mass  having  an  acid  reaction  and 
a styptic  taste.  The  solution,  heated  in  the  presence  of  other  salts,  is  decomposed,  with  the 
separation  of  basic  aluminum  acetate. 

An  impure  solution  of  the  salt,  containing  also  potassium  or  ammonium  sulphate,  obtained  by 
mixing  the  aqueous  solutions  of  6 parts  of  sugar  of  lead  and  5 parts  of  alum,  and  filtering  from 
the  precipitated  lead  sulphate,  is  extensively  employed  in  dyeing  as  a mordant  and  is  service- 
able as  a disinfectant. 

Alumini  aceto-tartras,  Aluminum  acetico-tartaricum — Aluminum  aceto-tartrate,  E. ; 
Essig-weinsaure  thonerde,  G. — This  compound  was  first  prepared  by  Athenstadt,  and  the  pro- 
cess for  its  manufacture  has  been  patented  in  Germany.  5 parts  of  basic  aluminum  acetate  are 
dissolved  in  a sufficient  quantity  of  water  by  aid  of  2 parts  of  tartaric  acid,  and  the  solution 
evaporated  to  dryness.  It  occurs  in  shining  almost  colorless  amorphous  masses,  with  faint 
acetous  odor  and  an  acidulous  astringent  taste.  It  forms  with  water  an  acid  solution,  but  is 
insoluble  in  alcohol.  According  to  Fresenius,  it  is  a true  chemical  compound,  having  the  fol- 
lowing average  composition  : Alumina  23.67;  acetic  anhydride  30.77  ; tartaric  acid  27.17  ; 
water  18.08.  The  salt  has  been  used  in  aqueous  solution  as  a non-toxic  reliable  antiseptic  and 
astringent. 

Liquor  Alumini  Acetatis  ( Acetici , P.  G.).  Solution  of  aluminum  acetate,  E. ; Solute 
d’acetate  d’alumine,  Fr. ; Aluminiumacetat-Losung,  G. — Dissolve  aluminum  sulphate  30  parts 
in  water  80  parts;  add  acetic  acid  (sp.  gr.  1.041)  36  parts;  triturate  calcium  carbonate  13  parts 
with  water  20  parts,  and  add  this  mixture  slowly  and  with  continued  stirring  to  the  first  solu- 
tion ; set  the  whole  aside  for  twenty-four  hours  without  applying  heat,  and  stir  occasionally ; 
then  strain,  press  the  precipitate  without  washing  it,  and  filter  the  liquid.  It  is  a clear  colorless 
liquid,  having  the  spec.  grav.  1.044  to  1.046,  a faint  odor  of  acetic  acid,  an  acid  reaction,  and  a 
sweetish,  astringent  taste.  On  adding  to  it  one-fiftieth  of  its  weight  of  potassium  sulphate  and 
heating  it  in  a water-bath,  it  coagulates,  but  after  cooling  becomes  clear  again  in  a short  time. 
The  solution  is  not  colored  by  hydrogen  sulphide,  and  on  being  mixed  with  twice  its  volume  of 
alcohol  becomes  opalescent,  but  does  not  produce  a precipitate.  On  precipitating  10  Gm.  of  the 
solution  with  ammonia,  0.25  to  0.30  Gm.  of  alumina  should  be  obtained,  proving  7.5  to  8 per 
cent,  of  basic  aluminum  acetate. — P.  G. 

The  formula  of  this  compound  is  A12(0H)2(C2H302)4  ; its  molecular  weight  323.44.  The  above 
process  is  more  simple,  and  yields  more  uniform  results,  than  the  one  devised  by  Hager  (1871), 
in  which  aluminum  sulphate  was  decomposed  by  basic  lead  acetate. 

Alumini  Nitras.  Aluminum  nitrate,  E. ; Azotate  d’alumine,  Fr, ; Salpetersaure  Thonerde, 
G.  Formula  A12(N03)6.18H20.  Molecular  weight  748.70.  The  gelatinous  aluminum  hydroxide 
obtained  from  33  parts  of  potassium  alum  or  from  31.5  parts  of  ammonium  alum,  when  dissolved 
in  20  parts  of  official  nitric  acid,  yields  a solution  containing  26  parts  of  this  salt ; diluted  with 
water  to  260  parts,  the  solution  contains  10  per  cent,  of  the  salt,  which  is  with  difficulty  obtained 
in  deliquescent  crystals,  soluble  also  in  alcohol. 

Aluminum  Chloride,  in  an  impure  state,  has  been  used  to  some  extent.  A solution  sufficiently 
pure  for  disinfecting  purposes  is  obtained  by  mixing  the  solutions  of  2 parts  of  alum  and  1 part 
of  anhydrous  calcium  chloride  and  filtering  from  the  precipitated  calcium  sulphate.  The  pure 
salt,  A12C16,  is  best  prepared  by  dissolving  aluminum  hydroxide  in  hydrochloric  acid  and  evap- 
orating carefully,  when  crystals  containing  12H20  are  obtained,  which  are  readily  soluble  in 
water  and  alcohol  and  are  decomposed  by  heat.  In  the  anhydrous  state,  however,  aluminum 
chloride  is  volatile. 

Ultramarine,  E .,  Fr. ; Outremer,  Fr. ; Ultramarin,  G.,  is  a pigment  which  was  formerly 
obtained  from  lapis-lazuli  or  lazulite , a mineral  found  chiefly  in  Asia,  and  composed  of  sulphur 
compounds  and  silicates  of  aluminium  and  sodium.  The  preparation  of  artificial  ultramarine 
was  first  made  known  by  C.  Gmelin  in  1828,  and  about  the  same  time  discovered  by  Guimet. 
Shortly  afterward  it  was  manufactured  on  a large  scale,  and  its  consumption,  which  was  3,500,000 
kilos  in  1862  and  8,500,000  kilos  in  1872  (R.  Hoffmann),  was  estimated  by  R.  Wagner  in  1880  to 
be  30,000,000  kilos.  It  is  prepared  by  heating  in  crucibles  a mixture  of  clay,  sodium  sulphate, 
and  charcoal  nearly  to  a white  heat  for  several  hours.  A white  compound  is  first  formed,  called 
white  ultramarine ; this  passes  into  green  ultramarine,  which  is  employed  in  the  arts  to  a certain 
extent,  but  mostly  converted  into  blue  ultramarine,  usually  by  roasting  it  in  the  presence  of  sul- 
phur. By  increasing  the  amount  of  silica  in  the  first  operation  the  product  acquires  a more 
purplish  tint,  and  by  treating  these  products  at  an  elevated  temperature  with  acids  violet  and  red 
ultramarines  are  prepared.  All  these  compounds  are  decomposed  by  acetic  acid,  which  does  not 
affect  lazulite.  Mineral  acids  decompose  them,  separating  gelatinous  silicic  acid,  sulphur,  and 
hydrosulphuric  acid  •,  red  ultramarine  evolves  sulphurous  acid  gas  on  being  treated  with  acids. 
The  exact  composition  is  still  unknown.  Ultramarine  blue  is  largely  used  for  whiting — that  is, 
neutralizing — the  yellow  tint  of  sugar,  starch,  paper,  etc. 


AMBRA  G RISE  A. 


177 


Action  and  Uses. — On  account  of  the  acid  taste  of  this  preparation  it  is  seldom 
used  alone  internally,  but  is  either  combined  with  zinc  or  is  saturated  with  gelatinous 
hydrate  of  aluminium  and  mixed  with  the  soluble  constituents  of  benzoin.  As  a topical 
application  a solution  of  1 part  of  the  sulphate  in  about  20  parts  of  water  has  been  used 
to  promote  the  healing  of  ulcers  and  to  correct  the  fetor  of  discharges,  especially  in  cer- 
tain cases  of  leucorrhcea  and  chronic  dysentery,  and  to  cure  ulcers  of  the  cervix  uteri.  The 
addition  of  benzoin  to  the  solution  for  these  purposes  also  has  been  recommended.  In  a 
concentrated  state  sulphate  of  aluminium  is  a powerful  astringent,  and  in  some  degree  a 
caustic  also.  It  has  been  used  for  destroying  exuberant  growths,  and  even  cancerous 
tumors.  Its  free  acid  corrodes  textile  fabrics  and  metals.  To  mitigate  this  effect  the 
excess  of  acid  has  been  neutralized  by  zinc,  and  a sulphate  of  aluminium  and  zinc  formed, 
which  in  a pure  state  acts  as  a caustic,  and  either  in  this  condition  or  mitigated  with  gly- 
cerin may  be  used  to  repress  fungous  granulations,  to  destroy  imperfectly  organized 
tissues  and  certain  hypertrophies,  such  as  cancers , vascular  nsevi,  and  polypoid  growths, 
and  to  stimulate  tissues  chronically  inflamed , as  those  of  the  nostrils,  throat,  vagina,  rec- 
tum, urethra,  etc.  This  double  salt  has  been  used  for  injecting  dead  bodies,  which  it 
preserves  unchanged  for  a long  time. 

Acetate  of  aluminium  resembles  alum  in  its  general  astringent  action,  contracting  the 
tissues  and  restraining  secretion.  When  30  or  40  drops  of  a solution  of  1 part  of  the 
salt  to  8 of  water  are  taken  internally,  a sense  of  warmth  is  excited  in  the  stomach,  and 
if  the  doses  are  reiterated  some  fulness  of  the  head  and  confusion  of  the  senses  result. 
Added  to  putrescible  mixtures,  it  restrains  or  prevents  putrefaction,  and  it  has  been  used 
to  deodorize  fetid  secretions  of  sweat,  pus,  mucus,  etc.  It  has  been  used  in  solution 
(1:4)  to  abort  furuncles  of  the  auditory  canal.  The  liquid  was  instilled  into  the  passage 
every  four  hours.  As  a lotion  or  injection  1 part  of  a 10  per  cent,  solution  mixed  with 
100  or  200  parts  of  water  may  be  employed.  It  is  said  to  have  been  the  agent  employed 
by  Gannal  for  embalming  the  dead,  and  more  recently  its  preservative  power  has  been 
attributed  to  its  germicide  virtue.  Burow  found  it  admirably  adapted  to  the  treatment  of 
gangrenous  parts,  destroying  their  fetor  and  renovating  the  injured  tissues  and  preventing 
pyaemia.  These  earlier  results  have  been  confirmed  by  the  more  recent  statements  of 
Rose,  who  recommends  a 3 per  cent,  solution  prepared  by  Bruns — viz.:  R.  Alum,  72 
parts;  Acetate  of  lead,  115  parts;  Water,  1000  parts.  Mix  and  filter.  This  solution 
may  be  diluted  according  to  circumstances  ( Therap . Gaz .,  ix.  727).  An  aceto-tartrate  and 
an  aceto-glycerinate  of  aluminium  are  reported  to  possess  analogous  properties,  and  to  have 
proved  useful  in  ozaena  and  kindred  diseases  (Am.  Jour.  Med.  Sci.,  July,  1886,  p.  258). 

The  chloride  is  said  to  be  closely  analogous  to  the  acetate  of  aluminium  in  its  action, 
and  may  be  used  for  the  same  purposes.  Under  the  name  of  chloralum  a preparation 
which  contains  from  10  to  15  per  cent,  of  chloride  of  aluminium,  besides  arsenic  and 
copper  as  impurities,  and  which  also  is  said  to  be  a compound  of  the  sulphate  and 
chloride,  has  been  much  used  of  late  years  as  a disinfectant  and  deodorizer,  and  as  a 
haemostatic  when  applied  on  cloth  or  cotton  impregnated  with  it.  The  cheapness  of 
chloride  of  aluminium  and  its  freedom  from  odor  fit  it  well  for  use  in  hospitals  and  pri- 
vate houses. 

Nitrate  of  aluminium  has  been  used  in  a solution  containing  Gm.  1 in  Gm.  30  (gr. 
xv  in  f^j)  of  water  as  a lotion  for  the  relief  of  pruritus  vulvas. 

AMBRA  GRISEA. — Ambergris. 

Ambra  cinerea. — Ambre,  Ambre  gris , Fr.  ; Amber , Graue  Ambra , G. 

Origin. — Ambergris  is  regarded  as  a morbid  product  of  the  sperm  whale,  Physeter 
macrocephalus,  Linne,  and  is  found  in  its  intestines  as  well  as  floating  on  the  sea.  One 
whale  has  been  known  to  yield  750  pounds  of  this  product  (Amer.  Jour.  Pharm.,  1859, 
p.  183). 

Description. — It  comes  in  irregular  pieces,  varying  considerably  in  size,  is  opaque, 
of  a gray  or  gray-brown  color,  with  lighter  and  darker-colored  streaks  and  spots,  lighter 
than  water,  friable  in  the  cold,  but  softening  when  held  in  the  hand.  It  is  of  a waxy 
appearance,  fusible  in  hot  water,  mixing  with  melted  fats,  and  soluble  in  volatile  oils, 
ether,  and  hot  alcohol.  It  has  a peculiar  fragrance,  is  nearly  tasteless,  and  on  ignition 
leaves  but  little  ash. 

Composition. — Ambergris  consists  mainly  (about  85  per  cent.)  of  a fatty  substance 
resembling  cholesterin,  which  Pelletier  and  Caventou  have  named  ambre'in.  It  crystal- 
lizes from  hot  alcohol  in  white,  shining,  tasteless,  and  inodorous  needles,  which  fuse  near 
12 


178 


A MBROSIA . — A MMONIA  C UM. 


35°  C.  (95°  F.).  The  remaining  constituents,  according  to  John  (1818),  are  some  bal- 
samic matter,  chloride  of  sodium,  benzoic  acid  (?),  and  coloring  matter. 

Adulterations. — Adulterated  and  fictitious  ambergris  can  be  readily  recognized  by 
different  physical  properties. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Tinctura  ambree  of  the  French  Codex  is  prepared  by 
macerating  10  parts  of  ambergris,  which,  according  to  Stanislas  Martin,  should  be  finely 
powdered  by  trituration  with  washed  sand,  in  100  parts  of  80  per  cent,  alcohol.  It  is 
often  used  for  fixing  very  volatile  delicate  perfumes. 

Action  and  Uses. — Ambergris,  like  other  strongly  odoriferous  animal  products, 
has  been  believed  to  possess  a stimulant  action  upon  the  nervous  and  circulatory  systems, 
with  a special  direction  to  the  generative  organs.  It  was  used  in  low  fevers  and  in  spas- 
modic disorders,  especially  of  the  hysterical  sort,  and  often  associated  with  musk,  castor, 
and  valerian.  It  was  prescribed  in  substance  in  the  dose  of  from  Gm.  0.30-1.30  (gr.  v 
xx),  or  more  frequently  in  ethereal  solution.  It  is  seldom  if  ever  employed  at  the  pres- 
ent day  as  a medicine,  but  it  enters  into  various  perfumes. 

AMBRO  SI  A . — Ragweed  . 

Ambrosie , Fr. ; Traubenkraut , Gr. 

Nat.  Orel. — Composite,  Senecionidese. 

Description. — This  genus  comprises  coarse-looking  rough  or  hairy  weeds,  with 
mostly  opposite  leaves,  and  with  inconspicuous,  yellowish,  staminate  flower-heads 
arranged  in  elongated  racemes  or  spikes,  at  the  base  of  which  one  to  three  staminate 
flowers  are  situated  in  the  axils  of  the  leaves.  The  following  two,  growing  in  waste 
places  in  North  America,  have  been  used  : 

Ambr.  trifida,  Linne , attains  a height  of  8 feet  (2.4  M.)  or  more,  and  has  entire  oval 
or  usually  deeply-trilobed  leaves  with  the  lobes  oval  lanceolate  and  serrate. 

Ambr.  artemisi^efolia,  Linne , also  known  as  bitterweed , hogweed , Roman  wormwood , 
is  about  3 feet  (.9  M.)  high  : its  leaves  are  thinner,  smoother,  and  of  a lighter  green  than 
the  preceding,  and  twice  pinnatifid,  with  the  divisions  lanceolate.  It  grows  southward  to 
Brazil. 

Both  species  have  a slight  and  rather  fetid  odor  and  a bitter  and  slightly  astringent 
taste.  Ambr.  maritima,  Linne , of  Southern  Europe,  which  resembles  the  last,  but  is 
grayish-pubescent,  has  an  agreeable  odor  and  an  aromatic  bitter  taste. 

The  constituents  of  these  plants  have  not  been  investigated. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  two  species  of  Ambrosia,  like  other  bitter  herbs,  have 
been  employed  in  the  cure  of  intermittent  fever.  Ambrosia’s  astringency  has  caused 
it  to  be  used  to  moderate  discharges  of  the  blood  and  mucus  and  to  palliate  mercurial 
salivation;  the  stimulant  qualities  attributed  to  it  are  supposed  to  be  shown  in  the 
typhoid  state  of  febrile  affections.  An  infusion  of  the  tops  may  be  made  with  Gm.  10- 
15  in  Gm.  500  (giij-iv  in  water  1 pint). 

AMMONIACUM,  V.  S.,  Br P.  G.— Ammoniac. 

Gummi-resina  ammoniacum. — Ammoniacum , E. ; Ammoniaque , Gomme-resine  ammo- 
niaque , Fr. ; Ammoniakgummi , G. ; Gomma  ammoniaco , F.  It.,  Sp. 

A gum-resinous  exudation  from  Dorema  Ammoniacum,  Don.  Bentley  and  Trimen, 
Med.  Plants , 129,  130. 

Nat.  Ord. — Umbellifene,  Orthospermse. 

Origin — The  plant,  which  is  of  a striking  appearance,  grows  to  the  height  of  2 M.  (6 
or  7 feet) ; its  leaves  are  all  radical ; the  hollow  stem  bears  a few  long  leaf-sheaths, 
and  divides  toward  the  apex  into  about  sixteen  ascending  branches,  upon  which  the 
small  globular  short-stalked  umbels  are  borne,  the  inflorescence  forming  a paniculate 
raceme.  The  root  is  rich  in  milk-juice,  which  rapidly  diminishes  in  quantity  when,  in 
about  the  fifth  year,  the  stem  is  produced,  after  which  the  plant  perishes.  The  gum- 
resin  exudes  from  the  stem  and  flowering  branches  from  punctures  produced  by  insects ; 
an  inferior  kind  exudes  near  the  base  of  the  stem  among  the  remnants  of  the  leaf- 
sheaths,  and  in  the  soil  considerable  quantities  of  hardened  milk-juice  are  often  found 
which  has  exuded  from  fissures  in  the  root  produced  during  the  hot  season. 

This  species  of  Dorema  prefers  a silicious  soil,  and  occurs  abundantly  in  the  deserts 
and  barren  regions  of  Persia  and  Tartary,  usually  accompanied  by  Ferula  Scorodosma, 
the  Persian  asafetida-plant,  but  growing  farther  north  and  north-east  than  the  latter, 
extending  to  the  southern  shore  of  the  Sea  of  Aral  and  nearly  to  the  south-eastern 


AMMONIACUM. 


179 


extremity  of  the  Caspian  Sea,  while  its  southern  limits  are  near  Bahziran,  in  Southern 
Khorassan  (Borszczow,  1860). 

It  is  not  impossible  that  Dorema  Aucheri,  Boissier,  a West-Persian  plant,  but  less  fre- 
quent than  the  former  may  yield  some  of  the  commercial  ammoniac;  but  D.  robustum, 
Loftus , which  is  united  with  the  species  mentioned  by  Boissier,  aifords  a gum-resin  dis- 
tinct from  ammoniac  (Pharmacograpliid) . 

Description. — The  best  quality  of  ammoniac  exists  in  dry  tears  from  1.5-12  Mm. 
(_i_  to  I inch)  in  diameter,  which  are  globular  or  irregularly  roundish  in  shape,  often  more 
or  less  flattened,  externally  of  a pale  brownish-yellow  and  internally  milk-white.  Their 
fracture  is  somewhat  conchoidal  and  of  a waxy  lustre.  The  tears  sometimes  coalesce  and 
form  irregular  masses,  which  when  broken  show  the  outlines  of  the  individual  grains, 
without  any  intervening  darker-colored  mass. 

Cake-ammoniac  is  an  inferior  quality,  and  consists  of  the  tears  imbedded  in  the  brown 
gum-resinous  mass  obtained  from  the  base  of  the  stem ; and  a kind  is  occasionally  seen 
in  which  the  tears  are  not  larger  than  a pin’s  head  and  few  in  number,  the  greatest  bulk 
consisting  of  a plastic  brown  or  greenish-brown  mass  mixed  with  vegetable  fragments  and 
earthy  matter. 

Ammoniac  softens  by  the  heat  of  the  hand  and  when  triturated  in  a mortar.  It  has  a 
peculiar  odor,  which  becomes  stronger  after  heating,  and  a bitter,  acrid,  and  nauseous 
aromatic  taste.  Chlorinated  lime  imparts  to  it  an  orange  and  potassa  a yellowish  color. 
On  being  triturated  with  water  it  readily  yields  a white  emulsion,  which,  on  the  addition 
of  caustic  soda,  acquires  a yellow,  and  finally  a brown,  color.  In  contact  with  hydro- 
chloric acid,  ammoniac  is  not  changed  in  color  even  when  heated  to  60°  C.  (140°  F.). 
Warm  concentrated  sulphuric  acid  dissolves  ammoniac  with  a blood-red  color,  and  the 
solution  shows  no  fluorescence  on  dilution  with  water  and  on  the  addition  of  alkali 
(Schlickum).  For  medicinal  purposes  the  tears  only  should  be  used. 

African  ammoniac , obtained  from  Ferula  tingitana,  Linne , is  not  found  in  our  market; 
it  has  a faint  but  more  agreeable  odor,  somewhat  like  that  of  benzoin,  and  an  acrid  but 
not  bitter  taste.  Moss  (1873)  found  in  it  68  per  cent,  of  resin,  9 per  cent,  of  soluble 
gum,  19  per  cent,  of  insoluble  matter,  and  4 per  cent,  of  moisture  and  volatile  principles. 
Umbelliferon  was  obtained  from  it  by  Hirschsohn  (1875).  Goldschmiedt  (1878),  by 
fusing  with  potassa,  prepared  resorcin  and  an  acid,  C10lI]0O6,  the  aqueous  solution  of 
which  strikes  a beautiful  red  color  with  ferric  chloride ; officinal  ammoniacum  does  not 
yield  such  a compound. 

Composition. — According  to  the  analyses  of  Bucholz,  Hagen,  and  Braconnot, 
ammoniac  contains  from  1.8  to  4 per  cent,  of  volatile  oil,  70  to  72  per  cent,  of  resin, 
18  to  22  per  cent,  of  gum,  11  to  4 per  cent,  of  bassorin  or  gluten,  and  about  6 per  cent, 
of  moisture.  The  volatile  oil,  of  which  usually  only  between  1 and  2 per  cent,  is 
obtained,  is  free  from  sulphur  (Moss,  1873),  and  its  solution  in  alcohol  acquires  a reddish 
hue  with  ferric  chloride  ( Pharmacogr aphid ).  According  to  Przeciszewki  (1861)  the 
gum  is  nearly  identical  with  gum-arabic,  and  the  resin  is  a mixture  of  an  acid  and  an 
indifferent  resin,  of  which  the  one  insoluble  in  ether  dissolves  readily  in  volatile  and 
fixed  oils. 

Fused  with  caustic  potassa,  Hlasiwetz  and  Barth  obtained  (1864)  resorcin  and  oxalic 
and  a volatile  fatty  acid.  On  the  dry  distillation  of  ammoniac  Sommer  failed  to  obtain 
umbelliferon. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses  and  Preparations. — Ammoniac  may  be  powdered  after 
exposure  to  cold,  or,  after  having  been  dried  over  lime,  in  the  same  manner  as  asafetida, 
the  powder  should  be  preserved  over  lime.  It  forms  an  ingredient  in  Emplast.  ammo- 
niaci,  U.  S. ; Empl.  ammoniaci  cum  hydrargyro,  IT.  S .,  Br. ; Empl.  galbani,  Br. ; Mis- 
tura  ammoniaci,  IT.  S .,  Br. ; Pil.  scillac  comp.,  Pil.  ipecacuanha  cum  scilla,  Br. 

Action  and  Uses. — Ammoniac  has  always  been  regarded  as  a stimulant  of  the 
circulation  and  nutrition.  Large  doses  of  it  have  been  said  to  produce  an  eruption  on 
the  skin,  besides  vomiting,  colic,  and  diarrhoea.  In  a plaster  it  occasions  a papular  erup- 
tion. The  above  effects  have  been  questioned,  but  are  too  well  established  clinically  to 
be  set  aside  by  any  experiments  upon  healthy  subjects.  It  is  probable  that  they  depend 
chiefly  upon  the  volatile  oil  and  partly  upon  the  resin  of  ammoniac. 

The  most  important  internal  use  of  ammoniac  is  in  the  treatment  of  chronic  pulmonary 
catarrh,  or  bronchitis , in  which  the  secretion  is  excessive  and  expectoration  difficult,  and 
there  is  an  absence  of  fever.  The  condition  of  the  bronchia  in  such  cases  includes 
passive  congestion,  excessive  secretion,  and  feeble  action  of  the  circular  muscles;  all 
stimulants  tend  to  remove  this  condition,  and  those  especially  which  are  excreted  through 


180 


AMMON  If  BENZOAS. — A M MO  Nil  BROMIDUM. 


the  lungs,  including  the  whole  resinous  class.  The  alleged  benefits  of  ammoniac  in  asthma 
are  probably  most  demonstrable  in  asthma  associated  with  pituitous  and  other  analogous 
forms  of  bronchitis.  It  tends  to  remove  the  exciting  cause  of  the  nervous  paroxysm, 
but  probably  has  a minor  influence  upon  the  spasmodic  element  itself.  There  is  a certain 
acrimony  about  ammoniac  which  perhaps  explains  the  fact  that  its  continued  use  is  apt 
to  render  the  bronchial  and  laryngeal  mucous  membrane  dry  and  irritable,  and  therefore 
the  medicine,  if  long  continued,  may  increase  coughing  after  having  lessened  it.  It  is 
said  to  be  very  useful  in  hysterical  asthma , but  with  the  qualification  that  it  should  be 
associated  with  asafoetida.  This  gives  the  credit  of  the  cure  to  the  asafoetida,  which  is 
alone  entitled  to  it.  Ammoniac  has  sometimes  been  employed  in  chronic  catarrh  of  the 
urinary  passages.  Externally,  it  is  used  as  a rubefacient  in  plasters  for  the  relief  of 
chronic  rheumatism , especially  of  the  muscular  form,  for  promoting  the  cure  of  bronchial 
catarrh , chronic  pleurisy,  and  various  other  affections  requiring  a superficial  and  sustained 
irritation  of  the  skin.  In  some  of  these  cases  the  plaster  of  ammoniac  with  mercury  is 
eligible  on  account  of  the  specific  action  of  the  metal,  which  is  very  apt  to  display  itself. 
The  dose  of  ammoniac  is  usually  stated  to  be  from  Gm.  0.60—2.00  (gr.  x-xxx)  ; but 
doses  of  Gm.  0.12-0.20  (gr.  ij-iij)  are  sufficient  if  frequently  repeated.  The  acrid  taste 
of  the  mixture  of  ammoniac  is  offensive,  and  hence  the  drug  should  perferably  be  admin- 
istered in  pill.  The  compound  pill  of  squill  is  a convenient  and  efficient  preparation. 

AMMONII  BENZOAS,  U.  S.,  Br. — Ammonium  Benzoate. 

Benzoas  ammonicus,  F.  Cod.  ; Ammoniac  henzoas,  Ammonium  benzoicum. — Benzoate 
d'  ammoniaque,  Fr. ; Ammoniumbenzoat,  Benzoesaures  Ammonium , G. 

Formula  NH4C7H502.  Molecular  weight  138.72. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Benzoic  Acid  2 ounces  ; Solution  of  Ammonia  3 fluidounces 
or  a sufficiency ; Distilled  Water  4 fluidounces.  Dissolve  the  benzoic  acid  in  3 fluid- 
ounces  of  the  solution  of  ammonia,  previously  mixed  with  the  water;  evaporate  at  a 
gentle  heat,  keeping  ammonia  in  slight  excess,  and  set  aside  that  crystals  may  form. — Br. 

The  formula  of  the  U.  S.  P.  1870  was  identical  with  the  foregoing.  During  the  evap- 
oration of  the  solution  considerable  ammonia  is  given  off,  and  an  acid  ammonium  benzoate 
would  be  left.  To  obtain  the  neutral  salt  it  is  necessary  to  add  sufficient  ammonia  until 
an  alkaline  reaction  is  obtained,  when  the  liquid  is  set  aside  to  crystallize,  and  to  avoid 
heat  while  drying  the  crystals. 

Properties. — Ammonium  benzoate  crystallizes  in  colorless  or  white  thin  four-sided 
laminae,  having  a slight  odor  of  benzoic  acid,  and  a saline  somewhat  bitter  taste,  with  a 
slight  acrid  after-taste ; it  is  readily  soluble  in  alcohol  and  water,  requiring  5 parts  of 
water  or  28  parts  of  alcohol  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  and  1.2  parts  of  boiling  water  or  7.6  parts 
of  boiling  alcohol  ( U.  S.).  On  being  strongly  heated  it  fuses,  gives  off  vapors  of  ben- 
zoic acid  and  ammonia,  and  finally  evaporates  without  leaving  any  residue.  Its  neutral 
solution  gives,  with  ferric  salts,  a bulky  light  brownish-yellow  (yellowish,  Br..  flesh-col- 
ored, U.  Si)  precipitate,  evolves  ammonia  when  heated  with  potassa,  and,  if  it  be  not  too 
dilute,  deposits  benzoic  acid  when  acidulated  with  hydrochloric  acid.  The  acid  salt  is 
less  soluble,  requiring  about  60  parts  of  water  and  12  parts  of  alcohol. 

The  purity  of  the  salt  is  ascertained  by  its  not  yielding  any  carbonaceous  mass  when 
heated  or  leaving  a non-volatile  residue  when  ignited.  A 10  per  cent,  solution,  acidulated 
with  nitric  acid,  and  filtered,  should  not  be  precipitated  by  barium  chloride  or  silver 
nitrate  (absence  of  sulphate  and  chloride). 

Action  and  Uses. — The  action  of  benzoate  of  ammonium  in  the  system  appears 
to  be  much  the  same  as  that  of  benzoic  acid  alone,  and  the  salt  possesses  over  the  acid 
only  the  advantage  of  greater  solubility.  Its  chief  uses  are  treated  of  in  the  article  on 
Benzoic  Acid.  In  addition  it  may  be  stated  that  this  preparation  has  been  used  in 
chronic  gout  and  gravel.  Dose , Gm.  0.30-1.30  (gr.  v-xx),  but  doses  of  Gm.  0.60-1.20 
(gr.  x-xxx)  have  been  recommended.  It  is  best  given  in  a mixture. 

AMMONII  BROMIDUM,  TJ.  S,,  Br. — Ammonium  Bromide. 

Ammonium  bromatum , P.  G. — Bromure  di  ammonium,  Fr. ; Bromammonium , Ammo- 
nium bromid , G.  ; Bromuro  di  ammonio , F.  It.,  Sp. 

Formula  NH4Br  or  AmBr.  Molecular  weight  97.77. 

Preparation. — Ammonium  bromide  may  be  prepared  by  neutralizing  hydrobromic 
acid  with  ammonia  or  ammonium  carbonate,  and  evaporating  the  solution.  It  may  also 


AMMONII  BR0M1DUM. 


181 


be  obtained  by  first  preparing  ferrous  bromide  from  4 parts  of  bromine,  2 parts  of  iron, 
and  16  parts  of  water,  and  precipitating  the  greenish  solution  with  a slight  excess  (about 
9 parts)  of  ammonia-water,  when  bulky  ferrous  hydroxide  is  deposited.  Or  the  above  solu- 
tion of  ferrous  bromide  is  mixed  first  with  1 part  of  bromine,  and  afterward  with  ammo- 
nia in  excess  (about  11  parts),  when  a dense  ferroso-ferric  hydroxide  is  precipitated,  which 
may  be  readily  washed  with  water ; the  filtrate  is  evaporated  and  allowed  to  crystallize 
or  the  salt  is  granulated. 

But,  according  to  Charles  Rice  (1873),  ammonium  bromide  prepared  by  tbe  processes 
just  mentioned  is  prone  to  decomposition,  bromine  being  gradually  liberated.  This  change 
does  not  occur  if  the  salt  is  prepared  as  follows  : The  solutions  of  4 troyounces  of  potas- 
sium bromide  in  6 fluidounces  of  boiling  water,  and  of  3 troyounces  of  ammonium  sul- 
phate in  41  fluidounces  of  boiling  water,  are  mixed  while  boiling  hot,  and  when  cool  11 
fluidounces  of  alcohol  are  added.  After  twenty-four  hours  the  clear  liquid  is  decanted  from 
the  crystalline  deposit  of  potassium  sulphate,  the  latter  washed  with  a little  18  per  cent, 
alcohol,  and  the  filtrate  evaporated  as  before.  Prepared  in  this  manner,  the  salt  contains 
minute  quantities  of  ammonium  and  potassium  sulphate,  the  presence  of  which  is  avoided 
by  sublimation.  For  this  purpose  an  intimate  mixture  of  well-dried  potassium  bromide 
(20  parts)  and  exsiccated  ammonium  sulphate  (11  parts)  is  introduced  into  a retort  with 
a wide  and  rather  short  neck,  and  heated  in  a sand-bath. 

Properties. — It  is  either  in  white  granular,  cubical,  or  in  larger  colorless  prismatic 
crystals,  which  have  a neutral  reaction  to  test-paper  and  a pungent  saline  taste.  On 
exposure  to  air  the  salt  gradually  becomes  damp  and  acquires  a yellow  color  and  acid 
reaction.  When  heated  it  sublimes  without  melting.  It  is  soluble  in  1.5  parts  of  water 
and  in  30  parts  of  alcohol  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  in  .7  part  of  boiling  water  and  in  15  parts 
of  boiling  alcohol  ( U.  S .).  Ether  dissolves  a minute  quantity  of  the  salt.  Chlorine- 
water,  carefully  added  so  as  to  avoid  an  excess,  liberates  from  the  aqueous  solution  of  the 
salt  bromine,  which  dissolves  in  carbon  disulphide  or  in  chloroform  with  a yellow,  red- 
dish-yellow, or  yellowish-brown  color,  which  is  free  from  violet  tint  (iodine). 

Tests. — It  may  be  regarded  as  pure  if,  on  being  heated  upon  platinum-foil,  a non- 
volatile residue  is  not  left  behind.  A small  portion  of  the  salt  placed  upon  a porcelain 
tile  should  not  at  once  acquire  a yellow  color  on  the  addition  of  a few  drops  of  diluted 
sulphuric  acid  (absence  of  bromate).  Its  solution  should  not  be  precipitated  by  barium 
chloride  (absence  of  sulphate  and  phosphate),  nor  by  hydrogen  sulphide  (absence  of 
metals).  The  solution,  mixed  with  a little  mucilage  of  starch,  should  not  show  a blue 
color  (which  would  indicate  iodine)  if  a drop  of  chlorine  or  bromine-water  be  added  on 
top.  If  10  grains  of  the  salt  are  dissolved  in  water,  and  the  solution  is  well  mixed  with 
a solution  of  17  grains  of  silver  nitrate,  a curdy  yellowish  precipitate  will  appear,  and  the 
clear  liquid  should  be  merely  rendered  cloudy  on  the  further  addition  of  silver  nitrate.  A 
white  precipitate  would  indicate  the  presence  of  ammonium  chloride,  which  requires  a 
larger  quantity  of  silver  nitrate  for  complete  precipitation  than  the  bromide ; and  if  no 
cloudiness  is  produced,  ammonium  iodide  may  probably  be  present,  which,  from  its  greater 
molecular  weight,  is  completely  precipitated  by  less  silver  nitrate.  The  precipitate  of  10 
grains  of  ammonium  bromide  by  sufficient  silver  nitrate,  after  washing  with  water  acidu- 
lated with  nitric  acid  and  drying,  will  weigh  19.17  grains  (1.917  Gm.  from  1 Gm. 
Am.-Br.).  The  presence  of  ammonium  chloride  would  increase  the  weight  of  the  silver 
precipitate.  The  allowable  limits  of  the  impurities  are  thus  determined:  “If3Gm.  of 
the  well-dried  salt  be  dissolved  in  distilled  water  to  100  Cc.,  and  10  Cc.  of  this  solution 
treated  with  a few  drops  of  test-solution  of  potassium  chromate,  and  then  volumetric 
solution  of  silver  nitrate  be  added,  not  more  than  30.9  Cc.  of  the  latter  should  be  con- 
sumed before  the  red  color  ceases  to  disappear  on  stirring  (absence  of  more  than  1 per 
cent,  of  chloride).  20  Cc.  of  a 5 per  cent,  aqueous  solution  of  the  salt  should  not  at  once 
assume  a blue  color  on  the  addition  of  5 drops  of  potassium  ferrocyanide  test-solution 
(limit  of  iron).” — U.  S. 

Action  and  Uses. — “ Bromide  of  ammonium  in  almost  every  respect  has  the  same 
action  as  bromide  of  potassium.”  It  does  not  appear  to  restrain  the  movements  of  the 
heart.  According  to  Cheron  and  Fouques,  this  salt  moderates  reflex  action  and  stimu- 
lates the  periphery  of  the  nervous  system.  It  has  a more  acrid  taste  and  is  more  irritating 
than  potassium  bromide.  It  obtunds  the  sensibility  of  the  mouth  and  pharynx,  as  well  as 
general  reflex  sensibility.  It  produces  a papular  eruption  upon  the  skin,  and  its  prolonged 
use  brings  on  a sort  of  hebetude  or  intellectual  dulness.  Its  unpleasant  taste  and  irritat- 
ing qualities  render  it  less  convenient  for  administration  than  bromide  of  potassium. 

Bromide  of  ammonium,  in  conjunction  with  potassium  bromide,  has  been  used  exten- 


182 


AMMONII  CARBONAS. 


tensively  in  the  treatment  of  epilepsy  ; but  while  it  is  held  by  some  authorities  that  this 
association  diminishes  the  bad  while  it  increase  the  good  effects  of  the  combination, 
other  observers  have  failed  to  recognize  in  it  any  advantage,  while  they  object  to  the 
unpalatable  taste  of  the  bromide  of  ammonium — a grave  defect  in  a medicine  which 
must  be  continuously  used  for  a long  time  in  the  treatment  of  disease.  The  weight  of 
authority,  however,  appears  to  be  in  favor  of  the  opinion  that  10  grains  of  bromide  of 
potassium  with  3 to  5 grains  of  bromide  of  ammonium  produce  a greater  sedative  influence 
than  12  or  15  grains  of  either  of  them  administered  separately.  Erlenmeyer  states  that 
the  association  of  the  bromides  of  potassium,  sodium,  and  ammonium  in  the  proportion 
of  1 : 1 : \ is  more  efficient  than  either  one  alone,  and  is  not  so  apt  to  produce  acnei- 
form  eruptions.  This  salt  has  been  successfully  employed  in  some  cases  of  delirium 
tremens.  It  has  also  been  recommended  as  possessing  remarkable  virtues  iri  whooping 
cough  during  the  spasmodic  stage  of  the  disease,  and  the  success  of  bromide  of  potassium 
in  the  same  affection  supports  the  recommendation.  It  has  been  particularly  eulogized 
by  Kormann  in  Germany  ( Med . Mews,  etc.,  xxxix.  473)  and  Grinnell  in  this  country 
(ibid.,  xl.  294),  but  without  any  statement  of  the  duration  of  the  disease  under  its  use. 
Probably  a combination  of  the  two  salts  would  be  more  efficacious  than  either  alone.  In 
acute  articular  rheumatism  this  medicine  has  been  supposed  to  exert  a favorable  influ- 
ence ; but  since  it  was  first  proposed  eight  or  ten  years  have  elapsed  without  eliciting 
any  confirmatory  experience.  The  intolerable  itching  of  prurigo  is  sometimes  strikingly 
diminished  by  it  when  it  is  given  in  doses  of  10  grains  three  times  a day.  It  has  been 
recommended  to  prevent  menorrhagia.  The  fumes  of  this  salt  have  been  used  in  the 
treatment  of  chronic  diseases  af  the  naso-pharynx  ( Dublin  Jour.  Med.  Sci .,  Mar.  1.889. 

Dose,  for  adults  from  Gm.  0.30-2.00  (gr.  v— xxx)  three  times  a day  ; for  children,  from 
1 to  5 grains.  It  is  conviently  administered  as  a bitter  infusion,  and  especially  in  hop 
tea. 

Bromide  of  Rubidium  and  Ammonium  has  been  proposed  by  Laufenauer  as  a substitute 
for  the  bromides  of  sodium,  potassium,  and  ammonium,  on  the  ground  that  it  contains  a 
larger  percentage  of  bromine  than  the  other  salts  named.  In  daily  doses  Gm.  4-7  (gr. 
lx-c)  he  conceived  it  to  be  more  efficient  than  the  related  bromine  compounds  ( Therap . 
Monatsch.,  iii.  348 ; iv.  45). 

AMMONII  CARBONAS,  U.  S Br. — Ammonium  Carbonate. 

Ammoniac  sesquicarbonas ; Ammonium  carbonicum,  P.  G.  ; Carbonas  ammonicus,  Sal 
volatile  siccum , Alkali  volatile. — Volatile  salt , E. ; Carbonate  d’ammon ia q ue , Alkali  vola- 
tile concret,  Sel  volatile  d’  Angleterre,  Fr.  ; Ammoniumcarbonat , Kohlensaures  Ammonium, 
Fliichtiges  Laugensalz , Reines  Hirschhornsalz,  G. ; Carbonato  di  ammonio , F.  It.,  Sp. 
Formula  NH4HC03NH4NH2C02  = N3HnC205.  Molecular  weight  156.77. 

Origin. — Ammonium  carbonate  was  first  prepared  by  Raymund  Lull,  in  the  thirteenth 
century,  by  the  distillation  of  putrid  urine,  which  contains  the  normal  carbonate,  (NH4)2- 
C03,  formed  from  urea,  CON2H4  and  2HLO,  water.  It  was  subsequently  obtained  by  the 
dry  distillation  of  horn,  bone,  blood,  and  other  animal  matters,  and  for  a long  time  puri- 
fied by  resubliming  this  crude  product  in  the  presence  of  animal  charcoal.  In  the  fifteenth 
century  Basilius  Valentinus  observed  its  production  from  sal  ammoniac  and  potassium 
carbonate,  in  place  of  which  afterward  chalk  was  employed.  At  present  it  is  largely 
manufactured  by  modifications  of  this  process. 

Preparation. — A mixture  of  powdered  sal  ammoniac  with  twice  its  weight  of  chalk, 
or  of  4 parts  each  of  ammonium  sulphate  and  chalk  with  1 part  of  charcoal,  is  gradually 
heated  to  dull  redness  in  an  iron  or  earthen  retort,  the  vapors  being  passed  through  an 
iron  pipe  into  a leaden  chamber,  where  they  condense.  The  chalk  is  used  in  excess  to 
prevent  sublimation  of  undecomposed  ammonium  chloride,  which  would  otherwise  be 
apt  to  contaminate  the  product.  It  is  then  purified  by  resublimation  from  iron  vessels. 
The  reaction  results  in  the  formation  of  calcium  chloride  (or  sulphate)  and  neutral 
ammonium  carb.onate,  which  on  condensation  is  converted  into  a salt  of  the  above  com- 
position, water  and  ammonia  being  given  off ; 4NH4C1  + 2CaC03  yield  2CaCl2  + N3HU- 
C205  + NH3  -f-  H20.  The  ammonia  is  utilized  either  by  passing  the  uncondensed  vapors 
into  water  or  through  a cylinder  filled  with  coke  which  is  impregnated  with  dilute  sul- 
phuric acid,  resulting  in  the  formation  of  ammonium  sulphate.  Barium  carbonate  may 
be  employed  in  the  place  of  chalk,  and  is  advantageously  used  with  ammonium  chloride, 
when  barium  chloride  is  obtained  at  the  same  time.  The  ammonium  salts  used  being 
almost  exclusively  those  obtained  from  coal-gas  liquor,  the  first  sublimate  contains  tarry 


.4  MM  ON  1 1 CA  JR  B ON  A S. 


183 

products,  from  which  it  is  freed  by  resublimation.  Nearly  600,000  pounds  were  annually 
imported  into  this  country  previous  to  1878;  since  that  time,  between  300,000  and 
500,000  pounds. 

Properties. — Ammonium  carbonate  is  found  in  commerce  in  white  crystalline  trans- 
lucent masses,  having  a strong  ammoniaeal  odor,  an  alkaline  reaction,  and  a pungent 
saline  and  caustic  taste.  Exposed  to  the  air,  it  parts  with  ammonia  and  carbon  dioxide, 
becomes  opaque,  and  falls  into  a white  powder  of  acid  ammonium  carbonate,  NH4HC03; 
this  salt  is  likewise  obtained  by  washing  the  powdered  official  carbonate  with  a little  cold 
water,  which  dissolves  chiefly  ammonium  carbamate.  The  U.  S.  Ph.  states  that  the  salt 
is  slowly  but  completely  soluble  in  5 parts  of  water  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  ; it  is  decomposed 
by  hot  water,  with  the  elimination  of  ammonia  and  carbon  dioxide,  and  is  completely 
dissipated  by  prolonged  boiling  with  water.  Alcohol  dissolves  ammonium  carbamate, 
and  on  being  heated  yields  a sublimate  of  this  salt. 

Composition. — Of  the  formula  given  above,  the  last  one  is  purely  empirical,  while 
the  first  represents  the  salt  as  a compound  of  1 molecule  of  acid  ammonium  carbonate 
with  1 of  ammonium  carbonate,  from  which  a molecule  of  water  has  been  separated. 
The  last-mentioned  compound  is  regarded  as  the  ammonium  salt  of  carbamic  acid  (which 
is  unknown  in  the  isolated  state),  and  hence  is  called  ammonium  carbamate , the  formula 
of  which  is  NH4NH.2C02.  In  its  pure  state  this  forms  tabular  crystals,  is  deliquescent, 
volatilizes  completely  at.  59°  C.  (138.2°  F.),  with  decomposition  into  ammonia  and  car- 
bon dioxide,  and  in  aqueous  solution  is  soon  converted  into  normal  ammonium  carbonate  : 
the  solution  of  the  official  salt,  therefore,  contains  a mixture  of  neutral  and  acid  ammo- 
nium carbonate. 

The  salt  formerly  in  the  market,  which  was  prepared  from  animal  matters,  closely 
resembled  the  official  salt,  but  had  the  composition  N4H16C3Og  = 2NH4HC03.NH4NH2C02 ; 
according  to  Divers,  it  was  a mixture  of  the  above  salt  with  acid  ammonium  carbonate. 

Tests. — Ammonium  carbonate  should  be  completely  volatilized  without  charring  when 
heated  upon  platinum-foil  (absence  of  organic  matters  and  non-volatile  salts).  It  should 
dissolve  in  diluted  acids  without  residue,  and  this  solution  should  be  free  from  empyreu- 
matic  odor.  1 Gm.  of  the  salt,  on  being  supersaturated  with  nitric  acid  and  evaporated 
to  dryness  by  means  of  a water-bath,  should  leave  a colorless  (white)  residue,  which  at  a 
higher  heat  volatilizes  completely.  U.  S. — P.  G.  Empyreumatic  products  impart  a yellow 
or  brown  color  to  the  residue.  Ammonium  hyposulphite,  which  may  be  present  from 
the  decomposition  of  the  sulphate  during  sublimation,  is  detected  by  the  brown  color 
produced  on  adding  to  the  aqueous  solution  of  the  salt  first  an  excess  of  solution  of 
silver  nitrate  and  afterward  of  nitric  acid.  After  dissolving  the  salt  in  a slight  excess 
of  diluted  nitric  acid,  it  should  not  be  precipitated  by  barium  chloride  (sulphate),  silver 
nitrate  (chloride),  or  hydrogen  sulphide  (metals).  Traces  of  iron  may  frequently  be 
detected  in  this  solution  by  potassium  ferrocyanide  or  sulphocyanate.  The  presence  of 
ammonium  bicarbonate  is  indicated  by  the  change  of  the  translucent  mass  into  an  opaque 
pulverulent  condition.  Occasionally  the  bicarbonate  has  been  observed  (see  American 
Journal  of  Pharmacy , 1874,  p.  540)  in  translucent  solid  masses  mixed  with  the  official 
article.  In  this  condition  it  has  but  a faint  odor  of  ammonia,  and  dissolves  slowly  in 
water  at  the  ordinary  temperature,  giving  off  carbon  dioxide. 

52.3  grains  of  ammonium  carbonate  dissolved  in  1 ounce  of  distilled  water  will  be 
neutralized  by  1000  grain-measures  (B)-.')  or  2.613  Gm.  of  the  salt  by  50  Cc.  of  the 
normal  volumetric  solution  of  oxalic  acid  ( U. S.). 

Pharmaceutical  Uses  and  Preparations. — Ammonium  carbonate  reacts  with 
salts  of  nearly  all  inorganic  and  organic  bases,  with  the  exception  of  sodium  and  potas- 
sium, and  is  therefore  incompatible  with  such  salts.  Prescribed  with  syrup  of  squill  or 
similar  preparations,  the  annoyance  caused  by  the  evolution  of  carbon  dioxide  is  best 
overcome  by  triturating  in  a mortar  the  carbonate  with  a little  of  the  syrup,  adding  the 
latter  gradually,  if  admissible,  alternately  with  water  or  a tincture.  The  generation  of 
carbon  dioxide  in  many  reactions  renders  it  necessary  to  triturate  the  ingredients  of 
pill  masses  containing  ammonium  carbonate  with  some  strong  alcohol  until  the  reaction 
has  been  completed,  when  the  excipient  may  be  added.  The  salt  is  used  in  making 
Liquor  ammon.  acetat.,  Spir.  amnion,  arom.,  U.  S .,  Br. 

Ammonii  bicarbonas,  NH4HC03,  is  obtained  by  treating  the  powdered  official  ammo- 
nium carbonate  with  about  twice  its  weight  of  water,  when  carbamate  will  be  dissolved, 
or  by  keeping  the  former  for  two  weeks  under  a bell-glass  over  sulphuric  acid  and 
slaked  lime,  when  the  carbamate  will  evaporate,  being  decomposed  into  carbon  dioxide, 
CO..,,  and  ammonia,  NH3.  Ammonium  bicarbonate  is  a white  powder,  when  perfectly 


184 


A MM  ONI  I CARBON  AS. 


dry  free  from  ammoniacal  odor,  of  a cooling  saline  taste,  insoluble  in  alcohol,  but  soluble 
in  8 parts  of  water  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.) ; the  solution,  heated  to  36°  C.  (96.8°  F.)  begins 
to  give  off  carbon  dioxide.  From  a concentrated  solution  clear  rhombic  prisms  of  the 
salt  may  be  obtained.  Yogler  (1878)  ascertained  that  the  salt  is  not  permanent  in  the 
air,  but  is  slowly  volatilized,  with  the  production  of  an  ammoniacal  odor. 

Liquor  ammonii  carbonici  and  Liquor  ammonii  carbonici  pyro-oleosi,  P.  G., 
1872,  are  solutions  of  1 part  of  ammonium  carbonate  or  pyro-oleous  carbonate  in  5 parts 
of  distilled  water. 

Ammonii  carbonas  pyro-oleosus,  s.  Ammonium  carbonicum  pyro-oleosum , P.  G., 
1872,  Sal  volatile  cornu  cervi. — 32  parts  of  ammonium  carbonate  are  thoroughly  incor- 
porated with  1 part  of  ethereal  animal  oil. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  direct  effect  of  carbonate  of  ammonium  when  taken  in 
doses  of  from  5 to  10  grains  is  to  cause  some  increase  of  the  fulness  and  force  of  the 
pulse  and  a sense  of  tightness  about  the  head,  sometimes  with  throbbing.  It  is  also  said 
to  increase  the  temperature  of  the  body  during  health  and  excite  the  secretions  of  the 
skin,  kidneys,  and  bronchia.  It  readily  enters  the  blood,  increasing  its  alkaline  reaction, 
and  escapes  by  the  breath  and  sweat,  and  still  more  by  the  urine.  In  doses  of  from 
10  to  20  grains  it  excites  vomiting.  In  still  larger  doses  it  occasions  symptoms  of 
inflammation  in  the  throat,  gullet,  and  stomach,  tetanoid  convulsions,  and  death.  In  a 
case  which  proved  fatal  intense  inflammatory  lesions  were  found  in  the  organs  last  men- 
tioned, and  also  congestion  of  the  lungs,  with  oedema.  Long-continued  use  of  the  salt 
deranges  the  stomach,  causes  diarrhoea,  emaciation,  and  a dissolution  of  the  blood,  with 
symptoms  resembling  those  of  scurvy.  The  last-mentioned  effect  it  displays  in  common 
with  the  other  alkaline  salts,  especially  those  of  sodium. 

This  medicine  has  been  used  in  typhus  fever  and  in  the  typhoid  state  of  various  febrile 
affections ; that  is  to  say,  in  which  nervous  disorder  is  associated  with  a tendency  to  dis- 
solution of  the  blood.  Thus  it  has  been  found  beneficial  in  the  fever  just  named,  in  low 
forms  of  typhoid  fever , typhoid  scarlatina, , measles , erysipelas , pneumonia , etc.  There  is  no 
reason  to  suppose  that  it  is,  in  any  sense,  a specific  for  those  affections,  or  that  a continu- 
ous administration  of  it  throughout  an  attack  is  beneficial  or  even  justifiable.  Like 
other  stimulants,  it  urges  the  organs  to  perform  their  functions  until  the  poison  which  is 
the  cause  of  their  debility  is  eliminated  and  the  tissue-repair  advanced,  and  probably  it 
also  quickens  their  performance  of  this  work.  In  appropriate  doses  it  has  the  advantage 
over  alcohol  that  it  leaves  no  depression  behind  it,  and  over  turpentine  that  it  is  not  apt 
to  occasion  any  local  derangements.  It  is  possible  that  the  antifermentative  action  of 
ammonia  illustrated  by  Gottbrecht  (il led.  News , lv.  697)  may  be  a factor  in  this  opera- 
tion. In  excessive  doses  it  is  perturbative  and  irritant,  and  if  long  continued,  even  in 
doses  which  the  stomach  will  tolerate,  it  impairs  nutrition  in  the  manner  stated  above. 
Its  efficacy  in  the  treatment  of  bites  of  venomous  serpents  and  insects  and  in  alcoholic 
intoxication  is,  in  a great  degree,  due  to  its  stimulant  action  ; but  the  extraordinary 
rapidity  with  which,  when  applied  locally,  it  arrests  the  pain  and  inflammation  of  insect- 
bites,  and  when  taken  internally  suspends  even  a high  degree  of  drunkenness,  seems  to 
shows  that  it  exerts  also  a more  direct  antidotal  power.  In  various  forms  of  bronchitis , 
both  primary  and  secondary,  it  may  be  employed,  the  cases  in  which  it  is  most  useful  being 
those  which  have  passed  the  acute  stage  and  which  tend  to  become  chronic,  with  dilata- 
tion of  the  bronchia  or  with  consolidation  of  the  vesicular  tissue,  constituting  the  so- 
called  broncho-pneumonia.  When  this  form  of  disease  arises,  as  it  often  does,  as  a con- 
sequence of  measles,  ammoniacal  medicines  ought  never  to  be  neglected.  The  dyspepsia 
of  drunkards  is  said  to  be  favorably  modified  by  this  medicine,  probably  by  its  combined 
antacid  and  stimulant  properties,  which  counteract  the  acidity  of  the  stomach  and  dis- 
solve the  tenacious  mucus  that  coats  the  organ.  The  antacid  property  of  the  salt  has 
led  to  its  use  in  cases  of  excessive  secretion  of  uric  acid ; and  in  diabetes  it  sometimes 
diminishes  the  quantity,  as  well  as  the  saccharine  condition,  of  the  urine.  Dr.  Beale  has 
drawn  attention  to  the  great  utility  of  this  salt  in  cystinuria , and  shown  that  large 
doses  of  it  may  be  safely  taken  for  a long  time  ( Lancet , Aug.  30,  1884).  Like  other 
volatile  ammoniacal  preparations,  it  is  useful  in  alleviating  headache , whether  dependent 
upon  acidity  of  the  stomach  or  upon  exhaustion  of  the  nervous  system.  Its  stimulant 
quality  renders  it  useful  in  faintness,  syncope , nervous  spasm , etc. ; and  when  mixed  with 
sal  ammoniac  and  scented  with  an  aromatic  oil  it  forms  the  usual  smelling-salts  employed 
to  relieve  the  symptoms  just  referred  to,  and  also  to  dissipate  congestion  of  the  nostrils 
in  commencing  coryza.  Externally,  it  is  sometimes  applied  to  promote  the  resolution  of 
glandular  swellings.  It  has  also  been  administered  internally  for  the  same  purpose. 


AM  MON  I I CHLORIDUM. 


185 


Carbonate  of  ammonium  is  generally  given  in  a watery  solution,  and  its  acrimony  is 
blunted  by  the  use  of  mucilage,  sugar,  or  liquorice.  As  a stimulant  expectorant  its  dose 
is  Gm.  0.10-0.15  (gr.  ij-iij)  or  more,  repeated  every  two  or  three  hours.  In  low  fevers 
Gm.  0.30—0.60  (gr.  v— x)  should  be  given  every  hour  or  two,  until  five  or  six  doses  are 
taken,  but  much  larger  doses,  such  as  from  20  to  40  grains,  have  been  given  several 
times  a days  for  months  together  without  injury.  An  emetic  effect  is  said  to  be  pro- 
duced by  Gm.  2 (gr.  xxx). 

AMMONH  CHLORIDUM,  U.  8.,  Br.—  Ammonium  Chloride. 

Ammonium  chloratum , P.  G.  ; Ammonium  muriaticum  s.  hydroch lo ra turn  depuratum, 
Chloruretum  Ammonicum,  Sal  ammoniacum,  Ammoniac  hydrochloras  s.  murias. — Purified 
ammonium  chloride , Muriate  of  ammonia , Sal  ammoniac , E. ; Ghlorure  d’ ammonium, 
Sel  ammoniac , Chlorhydrate  d’  ammoniaque,  Fr. ; Salmiak,  Ghlor ammonium,  Ammonium 
chlorid,  Reiner  Salmiak,  G.  ; Gloruro  di  ammonia,  F.  It. ; Glorhidrato  de  amoniaco , Sp. 

Formula  NH4C1  or  AmCl.  Molecular  weight  53.38. 

Origin. — The  sal  ammoniacum  of  ancient  writers  was  perhaps  in  all  cases  rock-salt. 
In  the  eighth  century  Geber  prepared  sal  ammoniac  from  urine.  Subsequently  it  was 
manufactured  in  Egypt  from  camel’s  dung  and  urine,  and  exported  to  Europe,  where  its 
manufacture  was  begun  in  Venice  in  the  seventeenth  century,  in  Great  Britain  in  1756, 
and  soon  after  in  Germany  and  France.  At  present  it  is  obtained  from  the  products  of 
the  dry  distillation  of  bones  and  other  animal  matters,  and  of  coal.  It  is  frequently  met 
with  in  the  neighborhood  of  volcanoes,  and  is  a constituent  of  several  mineral  springs, 
such  as  Hall,  Homburg,  Wiesbaden,  and  others. 

Preparation. — The  so-called  coal-gas  liquor  is  a watery  liquid  condensed  in  the 
preparation  and  purification  of  illuminating  gas  from  coal,  and  contains  principally  am- 
monium carbonate,  besides  some  sulphide,  cyanide,  and  empyreumatic  products.  This 
is  either  neutralized  by  hydrochloric  acid  or  decomposed  by  calcium  chloride,  in  both 
of  which  cases  a solution  of  ammonium  chloride  is  obtained,  wrhich  is  evaporated  and  the 
dry  salt  afterward  sublimed.  In  order  to  avoid  the  expense  attending  the  evaporation  of 
such  dilute  solutions  the  gas-liquor  is  now  frequently  treated  with  lime  and  the  generated 
ammonia  gas  conducted  into  a more  concentrated  acid.  If  the  gas-liquor  is  neutralized 
by  sulphuric  acid,  the  resulting  solution  will  yield  more  or  less  brown-colored  crystals  of 
ammonium  sulphate,  which  are  mixed  with  sodium  chloride  (table-salt),  and  the  mixture 
is  sublimed  from  iron  pots,  the  vapors  being  condensed  upon  the  inside  of  leaden  or  iron 
domes.  On  the  application  of  heat  a mutual  decomposition  of  the  ammonium  sulphate 
and  sodium  chloride  occurs,  resulting  in  the  formation  of  ammonium  chloride,  which  sub- 
limes, and  sodium  sulphate,  which  remains  behind ; (NH4).2S04  + 2NaCl  yields  2NH4C1 
+ Na2S04.  From  the  corrosive  action  of  the  vapors  upon  iron  the  product  is  always  con- 
taminated with  chloride  of  iron. 

Instead  of  using  sulphuric  acid,  the  gas-liquor  may  be  digested  with  powdered  gypsum 
(calcium  sulphate),  when  ammonium  sulphate  and  insoluble  calcium  carbonate  are  pro- 
duced, the  latter  retaining  a considerable  amount  of  the  tarry  products.  Any  liquid  con- 
taining ammonia  or  ammonium  carbonate,  like  the  aqueous  liquor  obtained  on  the  destruc- 
tive distillation  of  bones  or  other  animal  matter,  may  be  employed  in  the  same  manner  as 
coal-gas  liquor.  The  annual  importation  of  sal  ammoniac  has  increased  from  less  than 
800,000  pounds  previous  to  1879  to  nearly  1,500,000  pounds  in  1882. 

When  the  crude  article  is  refined  by  carefully  resubliming  it,  ammonium  chloride  may 
be  obtained  sufficiently  pure  for  medicinal  use.  Commercial  sal  ammoniac  contains,  usu- 
ally, variable  quantities  of  ferrous  and  ferric  chloride,  and  should  be  purified  by  dissolv- 
ing 2 parts  of  it  in  3 parts  of  hot  water,  adding  a small  quantity  of  chlorine-water  to 
convert  the  ferrous  into  ferric  chloride,  and  afterward  ammonia-water  in  slight  excess, 
then  filtering  the  hot  solution  from  the  precipitated  ferric  hydroxide.  If  the  sal  ammoniac 
has  been  otherwise  pure,  the  filtrate  may  be  evaporated  to  dryness,  and  the  salt  gran- 
ulated by  stirring  it  continually.  If,  however,  it  contains  other  saline  impurities  besides 
the  iron,  it  is  best  to  allow  the  filtrate  to  cool,  stirring  it  occasionally,  and  to  collect  the 
crystalline  powder  upon  a muslin  strainer.  The  impurities  will  remain  in  the  mother- 
liquor. 

Properties. — Sal  ammoniac  is  imported  in  casks,  and  consists  of  colorless  or  whit- 
ish translucent  masses  which  are  of  a fibrous  crystalline  structure,  very  tough  and  diffi- 
cult to  powder.  It  is  free  from  odor  and  has  a cooling  and  strongly  saline  taste.  Its 
specific  gravity  is  1.53,  and  it  is  soluble  in  about  3 parts  of  cold  and  in  little  more  than 


186 


AMMONII  CHLORIDUM. 


its  own  weight  of  boiling  water.  During  the  solution  of  the  salt  in  water  a considerable 
reduction  of  temperature  is  observed.  When  the  solution  is  heated  with  potassa  or  lime 
gaseous  ammonia  is  given  off,  and  when  treated  with  silver  nitrate  a curdy  white  precipi- 
tate soluble  in  ammonia  is  produced.  It  is  less  freely  soluble  in  spirituous  liquids,  requir- 
ing 14  parts  of  boiling  alcohol  for  solution.  The  salt  is  permanent  in  the  air,  but  its  solu- 
tion on  being  boiled  evolves  a little  ammonia  and  acquires  an  acid  reaction.  Ammonium 
chloride  evaporates  completely  without  melting  at  an  elevated  temperature,  and  on  cool- 
ing is  condensed  again  unchanged.  Metals  which  are  dissolved  by  hydrochloric  acid  are 
likewise  attacked  by  the  hot  solution  or  the  vapor  of  this  salt ; hence  commercial  sal 
ammoniac  contains  iron,  derived  from  the  vessels  in  which  it  has  been  prepared,  and  its 
solution  turns  blue  on  the  addition  of  potassium  ferrocyanide. 

Purified  ammonium  chloride  forms  a snow-white  granular  crystalline  powder,  the 
hot  solution  of  which  has  a faint  acid  reaction,  and  does  not  acquire  a bluish -black 
color  by  tannin  or  a blue  coloration  on  the  addition  of  potassium  ferrocyanide.  The  solu- 
bility of  pure  ammonium  chloride  in  water  has  been  ascertained  by  Alluard  (1864)  for 
the  following  temperatures,  and  a barometric  pressure  of  718  Mm.,  at  which  100  parts  of 
water  will  hold  in  solution 

28.40  32.84  37.28  41.72  46.16  50.60  55.04  59.48  63.92  68.36  72.80  77.24  parts  of  NH4C1. 
at  0°  10°  20°  30°  40°  50°  60°  70°  80°  90°  100°  110°  C. 

The  TJ.  S.  and  Germ.  Pharmacopoeias  state  that  the  salt  is  soluble  in  3 parts  of 
water  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  and  in  its  own  weight  of  boiling  water. 

Gerardin  gives  (1865)  the  following  figures,  indicating  the  solubility  of  ammonium 
chloride  in  100  parts  of  alcohol,  specific  gravity  0.939:  At  4°  C.,  11.2  ; at  8°,  12.6;  at 
27°,  19.4;  at  38°,  23.6;  and  at  56°  C.,  30.1  parts  of  NH4C1. 

Tests. — The  salt  should  be  completely  volatilized  from  platinum-foil  (non-volatile 
salts),  and  should  yield  a clear  solution  with  4 parts  of  water  (barium  sulphate,  lead 
salts).  The  solution,  in  20  parts  of  water,  should  not  be  affected  by  hydrogen  sulphide 
(metals),  diluted  sulphuric  acid  (barium),  barium  chloride  (sulphate),  nor,  after  acidulat- 
ing with  hydrochloric  acid,  by  ferric  chloride ; a red  color  produced  with  the  last  test 
would  indicate  the  presence  of  sulphocyanate,  observed  by  Warington.  The  limit  of  iron, 
according  to  the  U.  S.  and  Germ.  Ph.,  is  to  be  tested  by  solution  of  potassium  ferrocyan- 
ide (10  per  cent.),  5 drops  of  which  should  not  at  once  produce  a blue  color  if  added  to 
20  Cc.  of  a 5 per  cent,  solution  of  the  salt.  Empyreumatic  and  non-volatile  impurities 
may  be  detected  by  moistening  1 Gm.  of  the  salt  with  nitric  acid  and  drying  at  the  heat 
of  a water-bath,  when  it  should  not  acquire  a brown  tint,  and  on  heating  to  a higher  tem- 
perature the  residue  should  be  completely  volatilized. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Ammonium  chloride  is  used  for  generating  ammonia  in 
preparing  aqua  aminoniae. 

Ammonii  et  ferri  chloridum  s.  Ammonium  chloratum  f erratum , P.  G.,  s.  Ferrum 
ammoniatum ; Ammonio-chloride  of  iron,  ammoniated  iron,  E.  ; Sel  ammoniac  martial, 
Fr.  ; Eisensalmiak,  G. — 32  parts  of  ammonium  chloride  are  mixed  with  9 parts  of  solu- 
tion of  ferric  chloride  (P.  6r.),  and  evaporated  with  constant  stirring  to  dryness.  It  is 
an  orange-colored,  somewhat  deliquescent  powder,  having  a strongly  saline  and  ferrugi- 
nous taste,  and  containing  7.25  per  cent,  of  ferric  chloride,  Fe2Cl6,  equal  to  12.1  per  cent, 
of  crystallized  ferric  chloride  or  to  2.5  per  cent,  of  metallic  iron.  It  should  yield  a clear 
solution  with  water,  and,  being  decomposed  in  the  sunlight,  should  be  kept  in  a dark  place. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  effects  of  from  5 to  20  grains  of  ammonium  chloride, 
given  at  intervals  of  several  hours,  are  a sense  of  oppression,  warmth,  and  uneasiness  in 
the  stomach,  some  fulness  of  the  head,  and  an  increased  tendency  to  urinate.  If  it  is 
used  for  many  days  together  in  full  doses,  it  disturbs  the  digestion,  coats  the  tongue, 
and  impairs  the  appetite  ; it  may  even  occasion  gastric  pain,  vomiting,  and  diarrhoea.  Its 
prolonged  use  is  said  to  cause  emaciation.  Its  action  upon  the  blood  has  frequently  been 
illustrated  clinically.  In  one  case  there  were  bloody  blebs  upon  the  skin  and  in  the 
mouth,  besides  haematuria  and  bloody  stools  (Isham,  Med.  News , xl.  454)  ; in  another 
there  was  profuse  haemorrhage  from  the  nose,  eyes,  fauces,  and  bowels  (Lucas,  Med  News , 
xl.  587)  ; and  in  the  third  instance  inhalations  of  the  fumes  of  the  salt  seem  to  have 
occasioned  haemorrhage  from  the  pharynx  (Fuller,  Med.  Record , xix.  474). 

Chloride  of  ammonium  is  sometimes  used  with  a view  of  promoting  the  cutaneous 
efflorescence  in  eruptive  fevers ; but  it  is  of  more  value  in  the  cure  of  obstinate  intermittent 
fevers , doubtless  through  its  influence  upon  the  function  of  nutrition.  This  value  is, 
however,  very  uncertain  and  restricted.  In  bronchitis  that  has  passed  its  inflammatory 
stage  few  medicines  are  more  efficient  than  this ; and  in  all  the  chronic  forms  of  the 


AM  MO  Nil  CHLORIDUM. 


187 


affection  occurring  in  persons  of  a feeble  and  relaxed  habit  of  body  it  is  a most  valuable 
remedy  when  giveu  alone  or  associated  with  stimulant  expectorants.  Whooping  cough  is 
benefited  by  its  use  when  the  sputa  are  tenacious  and  excessive.  Its  wholesome  stimu- 
lation is  manifested  in  cases  of  chronic  pharyngitis  accompanied  with  a flaccid  state  of 
the  mucous  membrane  and  a glairy  secretion.  Inhalation  of  the  fumes  or  vapors  of  the 
salt  has  been  recommended  in  these  diseases  by  Franks  ( Lancet , Jan.  1887,  p.  167).  A 
similar  secretion  from  other  mucous  membranes,  constituting  gleet , leucorrhcea , etc.,  is 
often  modified  favorably  by  it.  The  alterative  action  of  the  medicine — i.  e.  its  slow  but 
steady  modification  of  the  nutrition  of  tissues — is  exhibited  by  its  beneficial  action  in 
amenorrhcea  and  dysmenorrhcea  when  the  former  depends  upon  torpor  of  the  uterine  sys- 
tem, and  the  latter  upon  chronic  engorgement  of  the  uterus,  with  or  without  catarrh. 
This  action  is  doubtless  exerted  by  it  in  those  cases  of  cure  which  it  brings  about  in  the 
various  general  disorders  that  arise  from  sympathy  with  the  uterine  system  at  the  meno- 
pause. It  is  also  in  this  manner  that  it  appears  to  be  useful  in  certain  cases  of  fibrous 
tumors  of  the  uterus.  To  a similar  mode  of  action  may  be  referred  its  utility  in  chronic 
glandular  enlargements,  as  in  those  of  the  thyroid  body  ( goitre ),  the  prostate,  fhe  liver,  etc. 
In  regard  to  its  utility  in  goitre  there  can  be  little  doubt.  Among  many  illustrations  may 
be  mentioned  six  cases  in  which  the  disease  began  at  puberty,  and  which  were  cured  after 
about  three  months  of  treatment  (Stevens,  Med.  Record ',  xvii.  429).  In  the  case  of  the 
liver  its  administration  has  been  alleged  to  diminish  the  tendency  to  hepatic  abscess , but 
such  an  assertion  must  be  difficult  to  substantiate.  According  to  the  first  and  the  only 
physician  who  has  attributed  this  virtue  to  the  medicine,  and  whose  field  of  observation 
was  in  the  East  Indies,  it  should  be  prescribed  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  1.30  (gr.  xx)  as  soon 
as  pain  in  the  hepatic  region  gives  warning  of  the  danger  of  suppuration  (Stewart,  Lancet , 
May,  1870,  p.  726;  ibid.,  Oct.  1887). 

The  forms  of  neuralgia  in  which  chloride  of  ammonium  is  beneficial  are  not  easily 
defined.  According  to  certain  statements,  it  is  equally  useful  in  rheumatic  and  idiopathic 
neuralgias,  in  those  depending  upon  local  congestions,  and  those  associated  with  anaemia, 
as  well  as  those  of  less  easy  definition  which  are  connected  with  uterine,  gastric,  and 
other  functional  disorders.  We  have  no  doubt  that  it  is  chiefly  serviceable  in  neuralgia 
depending  upon  cold,  in  which,  indeed,  especially  in  neuralgia  of  the  fifth  pair,  the  inter- 
costal nerves,  and  the  sciatic  nerve,  it  sometimes  exerts  a very  prompt  and  salutary 
action.  In  those  cases  of  diffused  neuralgic  headache  known  as  hemicrania,  and  often 
associated  with  gastric  acidity,  this  medicine  is  sometimes  beneficial,  but  less  so  than  the 
carbonate  or  the  liquid  preparations  of  ammonia.  In  the  muscular  aches  which  are  pro- 
duced by  the  prolonged  and  repeated  use  of  the  same  set  of  muscles,  and  which  have 
been  styled  myalgia , this  medicine  is  of  service  if  the  tired  organs  are  allowed  repose. 
A somewhat  analogous  condition  obtains  in  chronic  muscular  rheumatism,  for  which  also 
this  salt  may  be  advantageously  prescribed.  Like  other  ammoniacal  preparations,  it  has 
been  used  with  alleged  benefit  for  snake-bites , but  associated  with  such  other  active 
remedies  that  a judgment  of  its  share  in  the  result  is  impossible  ( Practitioner , xl.  291). 
It  has  also  been  recommended  in  the  treatment  of  haemorrhage  from  the  stomach,  the 
uterus,  and  the  lungs ; but  except  in  the  case  of  the  uterus  the  tendency  of  bleeding  to 
cease  spontaneously  is  so  well  known  that  the  influence  of  a medicine  in  controlling  it 
demands  a clearer  demonstration  than  is  offered  in  this  case.  This  salt  is  alleged  to 
reduce  the  proportion  of  sugar  voided  in  saccharine  diabetes , but  clinical  observation  does 
not  favor  its  use  in  that  disease  (Guttmann,  Zeitsch.  f klin.  Med.,  i.  610 ; ii.  473;  Adam- 
kiewicz, ibid.,  ii.  195). 

The  stimulant  action  of  this  salt  has  been  employed  to  stay  the  progress  of  gangrene, 
especially  of  the  senile  variety.  It  should  be  applied  in  cataplasms  or  in  local  baths, 
according  to  the  situation  of  the  disease.  The  same  action  is  very  usefully  resorted  to 
in  the  treatment  of  contusions  and  lacerated  and  contused  wounds.  In  local  inflamma- 
tions the  cold  produced  by  it  while  dissolving  may  sometimes  be  taken  advantage  of.  A 
mixture  of  5 parts  of  it  with  as  many  of  nitrate  of  potassium  and  16  parts  of  water  will 
lower  the  thermometer  from  50°  to  10°  F.  Such  a mixture,  contained  in  a bladder,  has 
been  used  to  promote  the  reduction  of  hernial  tumors  and  in  various  cutting  operations 
of  minor  surgery.  Chloride  of  ammonium  forms  a useful  ingredient  of  errhine  powders, 
gargles,  dentifrices  for  whitening  the  teeth,  cosmetic  preparations  for  removing  the  pimples 
of  acne  from  the  face,  plasters  for  the  treatment  of  enlarged  bursae  and  joints,  and  atom- 
ized solutions  for  the  cure  of  pharyngeal  and  laryngeal  affections  requiring  direct  stimula- 
tion. Among  the  last  are  nervous  aphonia  and  chronic  bronchitis. 

The  dose  of  chloride  of  ammonium  varies  from  Gm.  0.30-2.00  (gr.  v-xxx),  but  a 


188 


AMMON  1 1 10  DID  UM. 


larger  dose  than  Gm.  0.60  (gr.  x)  is  seldom  necessary.  It  is  best  administered  in 
solution,  and  its  taste  may  be  disguised  by  the  addition  of  extract  of  liquorice  or  the 
syrup  of  liquorice-root.  In  bronchial  diseases  its  virtues  are  increased  by  this 
association.  In  neuralgia  it  may  be  necessary  to  repeat  hourly  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.30- 
0.60  (gr.  v-x)  for  three  or  four  consecutive  hours.  In  affections  of  the  air-passages  it 
may  be  given  by  the  stomach,  and  also  by  the  inhalation  of  an  atomized  saturated  solu- 
tion of  the  salt  in  water.  The  ammonio-cliloride  of  iron  is  credited  by  some  German 
therapeutists  with  special  virtues  due  to  its  non-metallic  constituent,  in  scrofula,  anaemia, 
and  other  states  involving  general  debility.  There  is  no  sufficient  ground  for  this  opinion, 
and  the  taste  of  the  preparation  is  so  disagreeable  that  the  use  of  it  may  well  be  dis- 
pensed with.  Its  dose  is  said  to  be  from  Gm.  0.20-0.60  (gr.  iij-x).  It  may  be  given  in 
a solution  of  extract  of  liquorice. 

AMMONII  IODIDUM,  TJ.  S. — Ammonium  Iodide. 

Ammonium  jodatum,  Ioduretum  ammonicum. — Iodure  d' ammonium,  Fr.;  Jodammonium , 
Ammonium  jodid,  G. ; Yodhidrato  de  amoniaco,  Sp. 

Formula  NH4I  or  Ami.  Molecular  weight  144.54. 

Preparation. — This  salt  is  most  advantageously  prepared  by  the  process  recom- 
mended by  Jacobsen  in  1863,  and  which,  with  some  modifications,  was  adopted  by  the 
U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia  of  1870.  ikfter  correcting  the  errors  in  the  latter  this  process  is  as 
follows : Mix  potassium  iodide  in  coarse  powder  2 £ troyounces,  and  ammonium  sulphate 
in  coarse  powder  1 troyounce ; add  to  the  mixture  2 fluidounces  of  boiling  water ; stir 
well,  allow  to  cool  slowly,  add  2 fluidounces  of  alcohol,  and  place  the  mixture  in  a bath 
of  iced  water,  stirring  occasionally ; throw  the  mixture  into  a glass  funnel  stopped  with 
moistened  cotton,  collect  the  clear  liquid,  and  wash  the  crystalline  salt  with  diluted 
alcohol ; lastly  evaporate  the  filtrate  rapidly  to  dryness,  stirring  constantly.  Contact 
with  iron  or  other  metals  is  to  be  avoided. 

1 molecule  of  ammonium  sulphate  (132  parts)  and  2 molecules  of  potassium  iodide 
(331.2  parts)  decompose  each  other  when  mixed  in  solution,  with  the  formation  of  ammo- 
nium iodide  and  potassium  sulphate  ; 2KI  -j-  (NH4)2S04  forms  2NH4I  + K2S04.  The 
latter  salt,  being  insoluble  in  alcohol,  will  separate  from  the  solution  as  a crystalline  pow- 
der on  adding  alcohol  and  cooling  the  mixture,  after  which  the  filtrate  may  be  evaporated 
to  dryness,  yielding  rather  more  than  2&  troyounces  of  the  iodide.  The  minute  quantity 
of  potassium  sulphate  contained  in  it  does  not  interfere  with  its  medical  properties. 
If  a still  purer  salt  is  desired,  the  product  may  be  dissolved  in  alcohol,  filtered  from  the 
insoluble  potassium  sulphate,  and  evaporated  as  before. 

Other  processes  have  been  proposed,  of  which  the  following  may  be  mentioned : 
Hydriodic  acid  is  neutralized  with  ammonia  or  ammonium  carbonate.  Ferrous  iodide  is 
decomposed  by  ammonium  carbonate,  and  the  filtrate  evaporated  (Ch.  Ellis,  1835). 
Potassium  iodide  and  ammonium  bitartrate  are  made  to  react  upon  each  other  in  hot 
solutions ; on  cooling,  potassium  bitartrate  crystallizes,  and  the  evaporated  filtrate,  still 
containing  a little  of  this  salt,  is  treated  with  70  per  cent,  alcohol,  which  dissolves  only 
the  ammonium  iodide  (W.  H.  Pile,  1862).  Iodine  is  treated  with  ammonium  sulphide 
until  the  brown  color  has  completely  disappeared,  when  the  solution  is  boiled,  filtered 
from  the  liberated  sulphur,  and  evaporated  (Spencer,  1852.) 

When  iodine  is  added  to  ammonia-water,  ammonium  iodide  is  produced,  but  at  the  same 
time  the  extremely  explosive  compound  nitrogen  iodide  results.  Mixtures  of  the  two 
substances  named  should  therefore  be  made  with  great  caption. 

“ Ammonium  iodide  should  be  preserved  in  small,  well-stopped  vials,  protected  from 
light.  When  deeply  colored  it  should  not  be  dispensed,  but  it  may  be  deprived  of  free 
iodine  by  adding  to  its  concentrated  aqueous  solution  sufficient  ammonium  sulphide  test- 
solution  to  render  it  colorless,  then  filtering,  and  evaporating  on  a water-bath  to  dry- 
ness.”— U.  S. 

Properties. — Ammonium  iodide  is  in  white  granular  crystals,  and  on  the  slow  evap- 
oration of  its  solution,  which  should  be  kept  slightly  alkaline  by  ammonia,  is  obtained  in 
colorless  and  inodorous  cubes  having  the  specific  gravity  2.498.  If  the  air  is  excluded, 
the  salt  sublimes  undecomposed  ; in  contact  with  the  atmosphere  it  acquires  a yellowish- 
brown  color  and  a slight  odor  of  iodine.  The  salt  is  very  deliquescent,  and  dissolves 
freely  in  water  and  alcohol,  requiring  1 part  of  water  and  9 parts  of  alcohol  at  15°  C. 
(59°  F.),  .5  part  of  boiling  water,  and  3.7  parts  of  boiling  alcohol  for  solution  ( U.  S .)  ; 
the  solutions  have  a slight  acid  reaction  and  become  yellow  on  exposure.  Iodine  is 


AMMONII  NITRAS. 


189 


liberated  on  the  addition  of  nitric  acid  and  ammonia  by  potassa  or  lime.  On  the  addition 
of  a little  chlorine-water  to  the  aqueous  solution  of  the  salt,  iodine  is  set  free,  which  will 
dissolve  in  chloroform  or  in  carbon  disulphide  with  a violet  color,  and  will  impart  a blue 
color  to  mucilage  of  starch  ; excess  of  chlorine  will  prevent  these  color-reactions  through 
the  formation  of  colorless  compounds. 

Tests. — The  purity  of  the  salt  is  recognized  by  its  complete  volatility,  and  by  its 
solution  yielding  not  any,  or  only  a slight,  turbidity  with  barium  chloride  (sulphate). 
Ammonium  bromide  and  chloride  are  recognized  by  precipitating  the  solution  with  silver 
nitrate  and  adding  ammonia  in  excess,  in  which  silver  iodide  is  very  sparingly  soluble, 
so  that  the  ammoniacal  liquid  will  yield  merely  a slight  turbidity  on  the  addition  of  ni- 
tric acid.  If  a precipitate  occurs,  this  is  agitated  with  chlorine-water  gradually  added  in 
the  presence  of  chloroform,  which  will  be  colored  red  if  bromine  be  present ; if  the  chloro- 
form is  not  colored,  the  impurity  is  a chloride.  The  limits  of  impurities  are  thus  ascer- 
tained : “ On  adding  to  1 Gm.  of  the  salt,  dissolved  in  20  Cc.  of  water  (with  a few 
drops  of  dilute  hydrochloric  acid),  5 or  6 drops  of  test-solution  of  barium  nitrate,  no 
immediate  cloudiness  or  precipitate  should  make  its  appearance  (limit  of  sulphate).  If 
0.25  Gm.  of  the  salt  be  dissolved  in  10  Cc.  of  ammonia-water,  then  shaken  with  7.6  Cc. 
of  decinormal  silver  nitrate  solution,  and  the  filtrate  be  supersaturated  with  5 Cc.  of  ni- 
tric acid,  no  cloudiness  should  make  its  appearance  within  ten  minutes  (absence  of  more 
than  about  0.5  per  cent,  of  chloride  or  bromide).  A 1 per  cent,  aqueous  solution  should 
not  at  once  be  colored  blue  by  test-solution  of  potassium  ferrocyanide  (limit  of  iron), 
nor,  after  being  mixed  with  gelatinized  starch,  should  it  assume  a deep-blue  color  (limit 
of  free  iodine).” — U S.  The  solution  of  10  grains  of  ammonium  iodide,  treated  with 
sufficient  silver  nitrate,  yields  a precipitate  of  silver  iodide,  which,  after  washing  and  dry- 
ing, weighs  about  182  grains  (or  1.618  Gm.  from  1 Gm.  Ami). 

Action  and  Uses. — Iodide  of  ammonium  resembles  the  other  alkaline  iodides,  but 
is  more  active  as  well  as  more  transient  in  its  effects.  It  is  said  that  Gm.  0.50  (gr. 
viij)  (Bocker),  and  even  Gm.  1.30  (gr.  xx)  (Gamberini),  may  be  taken  at  a dose  without 
other  effect  than  some  warmth  and  irritation  of  the  throat  and  stomach.  It  was  first 
used  in  an  ointment  for  psoriasis,  tinea  capitis,  and  other  scaly  affections  of  the  skin,  par- 
ticularly those  due  to  a syphilitic  infection,  and  it  was  afterward  administered  internally 
for  the  same  class  of  affections  and  for  rheumatism  with  success.  As  a topical  applica- 
tion in  ointments  and  poultices  it  reduces  enlarged  glands , and,  being  more  irritating 
than  iodide  of  potassium,  is  probably  superior  to  the  latter  salt  for  this  purpose,  but  it  is 
inferior  to  the  iodide  of  lead.  A solution  of  Gm.  2.00-2.60  (gr.  xxx-xl)  of  the  salt  in 
a fluidounce  of  glycerin  has  been  used  with  the  same  object,  and  also  as  an  application  to 
enlarged  and  indurated  tonsils.  It  is  sometimes  added  to  volatile,  camphorated,  and 
other  liniments  used  for  the  relief  of  rheumatic  and  other  local  pains.  The  dose  of  this 
iodide  is  from  Gm.  0.06-0.30  (gr.  j-v)  and  upward.  It  should  be  dissolved  in  water 
with  syrup,  and  dispensed  in  bottles  of  blue  glass  to  prevent  its  decomposition  by  the 
light.  An  ointment  containing  from  Gm.  2-4  (gr.  xxx-lx)  of  the  salt  in  an  ounce  of 
lard  should  be  freshly  prepared  when  required. 

AMMONII  NITRAS,  U.  S.,  IZr. — Ammonium  Nitrate. 

Ammoniac  nitras , Br. ; Ammonium  nitricum , Nitrum  flammans. — Nitrate  of  ammonia , 
E. ; Azofate  di  ammoniaque,  Nitre  inflammable,  Nitre  ammoniacal,  Sel  ammoniacal  Nitreux, 
Fr.  ; Salpetersaures  Ammon  ( Ammonium , Ammonialc),  Ammoniumnitrat , G.  Nitrato  de 
amoniaco,  Sp. 

Formula  NH4N03  or  AmN03.  Molecular  weight  79.9. 

Preparation. — Ammonium  nitrate  exists  in  small  quantity  in  the  atmosphere  and 
in  rain-water,  particularly  after  thunder-storms ; likewise  in  the  water  of  several  springs. 
On  dissolving  iron  in  nitric  acid  the  same  salt  is  formed  through  the  action  of  nascent 
hydrogen  upon  a portion  of  the  acid ; many  other  metals  have  the  same  effect. 

For  preparing  ammonium  nitrate,  nitric  acid  is  neutralized  with  ammonia  or  ammonium 
carbonate,  or,  in  place  of  the  latter,  the  pulverulent  bicarbonate  which  accumulates  in 
the  shops  may  be  advantageously  employed ; the  solution  is  concentrated  by  evaporation 
and  crystallized,  or  until  it  congeals  on  cooling.  On  the  large  scale  it  is  manufactured 
from  ammonium  sulphate  and  potassium  nitrate,  the  mixed  solutions  of  which  yield,  first, 
crystals  of  the  less  freely  soluble  potassium  sulphate,  afterward  crystals  of  ammonium 
nitrate,  which  require  to  be  purified  by  recrystallization. 

Properties. — Ammonium  nitrate  crystallizes  in  colorless  hexagonal  prisms,  or  on  the 


190 


AMMON  1 1 PHOSPHAS. 


rapid  refrigeration  of  the  concentrated  solution  in  long,  flexible,  thread-like  needles;  after 
fusion  it  forms  colorless  crystalline,  inodorous  masses.  It  has  the  specific  gravity  1.70, 
and  possesses  a sharp  bitterish  taste.  It  deliquesces  in  contact  with  moist  air,  and  dis- 
solves at  ordinary  temperatures  in  about  half  its  weight,  and  in  much  less  of  boiling 
water.  It  dissolves  in  2.20  parts  of  alcohol,  specific  gravity  0.880,  at  25°  C.  (77°  F.) 
(Pohl);  in  1.1  parts  of  boiling  alcohol  (Wenzel);  in  20  parts  of  alcohol  at  15°  C.  (59° 
F.),  and  in  3 parts  of  boiling  alcohol  ( U.  S.  P.').  The  solutions  on  exposure  or  on  heat- 
ing lose  ammonia  and  acquire  an  acid  reaction.  The  salt  deliquesces  in  ammonia  gas, 
forming  a solution  in  liquefied  ammonia,  as  observed  by  Divers  (1872);  at  23°  C.  (73.4° 
F.)  and  the  pressure  of  the  atmosphere  the  liquid  consists  of  4 parts,  and  at  0°  C.  (32° 
F.)  of  2 parts,  by  weight,  of  the  nitrate  to  1 part  of  ammonia;  but  under  greater  pressure 
or  at  lower  temperatures  much  more  ammonia  can  be  condensed  by  the  nitrate.  Like  an 
aqueous  solution,  the  liquid  boils  when  heated,  and  may  crystallize  on  cooling  or  become 
supersaturated  with  the  salt  without  crystallizing;  at  80°  C.  (176°  F.)  the  whole  of  the 
ammonia  is  expelled.  Ammonium  nitrate  softens  on  the  application  of  heat,  and  fuses 
at  165°-166°  C.  (329°-330.8°  F.)  (U.  S.),  160°  C.  (320°  F.)  (Br.)  108°  C.  (226.4°  F.) 
(Pleischl),  at  152°  C.  (305.6°  F.)  (Berthelot,1872),  at  165°  to  166°  C.  (329°-330.8°  F.) 
(Pickering,  1878),  the  difference  in  these  observations  being  doubtless  due  to  the  presence 
of  moisture  and  other  impurities.  The  same  causes  affect  also  the  temperature  at  which 
the  salt  is  decomposed,  and  which  has  been  determined  at  185°  C.  (365°  F.)  by  Picker- 
ing, at  190°-200°  C. (374°— 392°  F.),  by  Legrand,  at  210°  C.  (410°  F.)  by  Berthelot,  and 
at  near  240°  C.  (464°  F.)  by  Pleischl,  the  U.  S.  P.  requiring  a salt  which  decomposes 
between  230°  and  250°  C.  (446°  and  482°  F.),  (U.  S .),  176.7°  C.  to  232.2°  C.  (350° 
to  450°  F.)  (Br.).  A portion  of  the  salt  is  volatilized  unaltered.  When  rapidly  heated 
it  is  decomposed  into  water,  nitrogen  trioxide,  and  nitrogen,  or  into  nitrous  and  nitric 
oxides,  ammonium  nitrite,  and  ammonia  ; but  if  gradually  heated  it  is  decomposed  into 
water  and  nitrous  oxide,  or  laughing  gas,  N20.  This  decomposition  is  effected  according 
to  the  following  equation  : NH4NO;!  = N20+2H20.  It  is  evident  from  this  that  in  the 

preparation  of  nitrous  oxide  gas  to  be  used  for  inhalation  the  heat  should  be  carefully 
regulated  and  the  gas  pass  through  solutions  of  potassa  (or  lime-water)  and  ferrous  sul- 
phate, whereby  all  the  gaseous  impurities,  except  the  nitrogen  which  may  be  present,  are 
completely  removed,  even  if  chlorine  should  have  been  evolved  in  consequence  of  the 
presence  of  ammonium  chloride  in  the  nitrate. 

The  salt  detonates  when  thrown  upon  red-hot  charcoal  or  when  mixed  with  powdered 
charcoal  and  heated  to  170°  C.  (338°  F.).  When  mixed  with  sulphuric  acid,  nitric  acid 
vapors  are  given  off,  and  potassa  or  lime  evolves  ammonia  when  heated  with  the  aqueous 
solution. 

Tests. — The  salt  should  be  completely  volatilized  without  charring  when  heated  upon 
platinum-foil,  and  a 10  per  cent,  aqueous  solution  acidulated  with  nitric  acid  should  not  be 
precipitated  either  by  silver  nitrate  or  barium  chloride  (absence  of  chloride  and  sulphate). 

Action  and  Uses. — Nitrate  of  ammonium  is  seldom  used,  but  its  dose  is  stated  at 
Gm.  0.05-1.5  (gr.  j-xx).  It  is  generally  regarded  as  having  properties  analogous  to 
those  of  potassium  nitrate.  It  is  made  officinal  chiefly  as  the  source  from  which  nitrous 
oxide  gas  is  derived  by  means  of  heat.  It  is  also  used  to  prepare  freezing  mixtures  and 
artificial  cold  applications. 

AMMONII  PHOSPHAS,  Br.— Ammonium  Phosphate. 

Ammonise  phosphas,  Ammonium  phosphoricum , Phosphas  ammonicus. — Phosphate  of 
ammonia , jDiammonium  orthophosphate , E.  ; Phosphate  <f  ammoniaque,  Fr. ; Ammonium- 
phosphat,  Phosphorsaures  Ammon  ( Ammonium , Ammoniak ),  G. 

Formula  (NH4)2HP04.  Molecular  weight  131.82. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Diluted  Phosphoric  Acid  20  fluidounces ; Strong  Solution 
of  Ammonia  a sufficiency.  Add  the  ammonia  to  the  phosphoric  acid  until  the  solution 
is  slightly  alkaline,  then  evaporate  the  liquid,  adding  ammonia  from  time  to  time,  so  as  to 
keep  it  in  slight  excess,  and  when  the  crystals  are  formed  on  the  cooling  of  the  solution, 
dry  them  quickly  on  filtering-paper  placed  on  a porous  tile,  and  preserve  them  in  a 
stoppered  bottle. — Br. 

This  process  yields  the  salt  by  the  direct  union  of  tribasic  phosphoric  acid  and 
ammonia.  Since  the  salt  has  a distinct  alkaline  reaction  and  heat  expels  a portion  of  the 
ammonia,  it  becomes  necessary  to  add  ammonia-water  from  time  to  time,  and  particularly 
when  the  solution  is  set  aside  to  crystallize,  in  order  to  preserve  the  alkaline  reaction, 


. I MMONII  SULPHAS. 


191 


otherwise  this  so-called  neutral  salt  will  be  mixed  in  variable  proportions  with  the  acid 
phosphate,  having  the  composition  NH4H2P04.  The  salt  may  also  be  obtained  from 
bones  calcined  to  whiteness  by  the  process  for  Sodium  Phosphate  (which  see),  if 
the  sodium  carbonate  there  directed  is  replaced  by  ammonium  carbonate,  and  the  result- 
ing liquid,  after  suitable  concentration,  is  rendered  alkaline  by  the  addition  of  some 
ammonia.  If  necessary,  the  salt  obtained  is  to  be  purified  by  recrystallization  from  dis- 
tilled water,  with  the  addition  of  a little  ammonia,  until  the  crystals  are  free  from  sul- 
phate. If  the  crystallizing  liquid  should  have  been  rendered  strongly  alkaline  by 
ammonia,  the  salt  would  consist  of  or  contain  triammonium  (the  so-called  basic)  ortho- 
phosphate of  the  formula  (NH4)3P04. 

Properties. — Ammonium  phosphate  crystallizes  in  transparent,  colorless,  mono- 
clinic prisms  having  the  specific  gravity  1.678  (Buignet,  1861).  It  has  a cooling  and 
sharply  saline  taste,  effloresces  superficially  in  a damp  atmosphere  through  loss  of 
ammonia,  is  insoluble  in  alcohol,  but  dissolves  in  4 parts  of  water  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  and  in 
.5  part  of  boiling  water,  yielding  a solution  which  is  at  first  slightly  alkaline,  but  on 
exposure  becomes  neutral  through  loss  of  ammonia,  and  by  continued  boiling  loses  one- 
half  of  it.  The  solution  yields  a yellow  precipitate  with  silver  nitrate,  soluble  in  nitric 
acid  and  ammonia,  and  evolves  ammonia  when  heated  with  potassa.  The  salt,  when 
heated,  fuses  and  is  gradually  decomposed  into  metaphosphoric  acid,  ammonia,  and 
water,  and  at  a bright  red  heat  is  finally  completely  volatilized. 

Tests. — 20  grains  of  the  salt,  dissolved  in  water  and  precipitated  by  a solution  of 
ammonio-magnesium  sulphate,  yield  a crystalline  precipitate,  which,  when  well  washed 
with  diluted  ammonia-water,  dried,  and  ignited,  weighs  16.8  grains.  The  solution  should 
not  be  affected  by  ammonium  sulphide,  or,  after  being  acidulated  with  nitric  acid,  by 
hydrogen  sulphide  (absence  of  metals),  and  should  yield  no  precipitate  with  barium 
chloride  (sulphate)  or  silver  nitrate  (chloride).  10  grains  of  the  salt,  gradually  heated 
upon  platinum-foil  to  redness,  should  leave  a residue  weighing  6.1  grains. 

Action  and  Uses. — Ammonium  phosphate  was  proposed  as  a remedy  for  gout, 
upon  the  theoretical  ground  that  it  would  produce,  with  the  uric  acid  in  the  system, 
more  soluble  salts  than  those  of  soda  and  lime,  which  form  the  bases  of  gouty  concre- 
tions. By  a singular  perversion  of  logic  the  samd  condition  was  assumed  to  exist  in 
rheumatism , which  is  a totally  different  disease,  essentially  as  well  as  clinically.  It  was 
indeed  pointed  out  that,  even  from  a chemical  point  of  view,  the  administration  of  the 
medicine  would  be  apt  to  favor  the  formation  of  ammoniaco-magnesian  calculi.  However, 
it  was  alleged  that  during  the  use  of  the  medicine  uric  acid  rapidily  disappeared  from 
the  urine,  and  that  the  pains  and  other  local  phenomena  in  the  joints  during  acute  gout 
and  rheumatism  subsided,  just  as  they  do  in  the  latter  disease  under  the  use  of  the  car- 
bonates of  the  alkalies.  No  general  concurrence  in  the  results  of  observation  has  con- 
firmed the  special  if  not  specific  advantages  ascribed  to  this  medicine  at  its  introduc- 
tion, and  which  are  neither  greater  than  those  of  the  other  alkalies  nor  different  from 
them.  Like  them,  phosphate  of  ammonium  has  been  found  very  serviceable  in  many 
cases  of  diabetes  by  maintaining  a highly  alkaline  condition  of  the  blood,  and  thereby 
diminishing  the  amount  of  sugar  eliminated  with  the  urine.  The  dose  is  from  Gm. 
0.60-1.30  (gr.  x-xx)  three  times  a day,  dissolved  in  water  or  in  some  mild  liquid,  such 
as  barley-  or  rice-water. 

AMMONII  SULPHAS. — Ammonium  Sulphate. 

Ammonium  sulphuricum , Sulphas  ammonicus , Sal  ammonium  secretum  Glauberi. — Sul- 
fate cFammoniaque,  Sel  secret  de  Glauber , Fr.  ; Schwefelsaures  Ammon  (Ammonium,  Am- 
monialf),  Ammoniumsulfat , G. 

Formula  (NH4)2S04  or  Am2S04.  Molecular  weight  131.84. 

Origin. — Ammonium  sulphate  was  observed  by  Libavius  (1595),  and  first  prepared 
from  oil  of  vitriol  and  volatile  alkali  by  Glauber  (1667),  after  which  time  it  was  much 
employed  as  a purgative.  The  salt  is  a constituent  of  a few  minerals,  and  is  sometimes 
found  in  the  neighborhood  of  volcanoes. 

Preparation. — Ammonium  sulphate  is  largely  obtained  from  coal-gas  liquor  (see 
Ammonii  Chloridum)  by  neutralizing  it  with  sulphuric  acid  or  by  digesting  it  with 
calcium  sulphate.  A convenient  process  is  to  percolate  the  gas-liquor  through  powdered 
gypsum,  whereby  calcium  carbonate  is  left  in  the  percolator  and  ammonium  sulphate  is 
found  in  the  filtrate  CaS04  + (NH4)2C03  yields  CaCO;!  + (NH4)2S04.  The  solution  is 
evaporated ; the  resulting  crystals  are  gradually  heated  to  about  240°  C.  (464°  F.)  to 


192 


AMMONII  VA  LERI  A NAS. 


expel  tarry  compounds,  and  then  recrystallized  from  water.  Nearly  all  that  is  con- 
sumed in  the  United  States  is  manufactured  here. 

Properties. — It  forms  colorless  rhombic  prisms  isomorphous  with  potassium  sul- 
phate, free  from  odor,  and  of  a sharp  saline  and  bitterish  taste.  It  has  the  specific  gravity 
1.76,  fuses  at  140°  C.  (284°  F.),  and  is  decomposed  at  a heat  exceeding  260°  C.  (500°  F.), 
yielding  ammonia,  water,  nitrogen,  and  a sublimate  of  ammonium  sulphite  with  a little 
ammonium  sulphate.  100  parts  of  water  dissolve,  according  to  Alluard  (1864), 

71.00  73.65  76.30  78.95  81.60  84.25  86.90  89.55  92.20  94.85  97.50  parts  of  Am2S04 
at  0°  10°  20°  30°  40°  50°  60°  70°  80°  90°  100°  C. 

The  solution  in  cold  water  has  a neutral  reaction  to  test-paper,  but  on  exposure  or  on 
boiling  evolves  a little  ammonia  and  acquires  a faint  acid  reaction  (Debbits,  1872).  It  is 
insoluble  in  absolute  alcohol,  requires  for  solution  about  500  parts  of  alcohol  (spec.  grav. 
.88),  but  dissolves  more  freely  in  weaker  alcohol.  Its  solution  evolves  ammonia  when 
heated  with  potassa  or  lime,  and  chloride  of  barium  produces  in  it  a white  precipitate 
insoluble  in  diluted  nitric  acid. 

Tests. — When  gradually  heated  to  redness  the  salt  should  not  be  blackened,  and 
should  finally  leave  no  residue  upon  platinum-foil.  Metals,  chlorides,  and  other  impuri- 
ties are  detected  in  the  same  manner  as  in  other  ammonium  salts. 

Action  and  Uses. — Ammonium  sulphate  is  used  in  the  manufacture  of  ammonia- 
water,  chloride  of  ammonium,  and  ammonia  alum  ; also  for  sulphate  of  iron  and  ammon- 
ium. It  is  not  used  as  a medicine. 


AMMONII  VALERIANAS,  77.  Ammonium  Valerianate. 

Valerianae  ammonicus. — Ammonium  Valerate , E. ; Valerianate  dJ ammoniaque,  Fr. ; 
Ammoniumvaleriaiiat,  Baldriansaures  Ammonium , G. ; Valerianato  de  amoniaco , Sp. 

Formula  NH4C5H902.  Molecular  weight  118.78. 

Preparation. — The  practical  details  of  the  process  recognized  by  the  U.  S.  Pharma- 
copoeia of  1870  were  published  by  B.  J.  Crew  (1860),  and  are  based  upon  Chevreul’s 
observations  that  concentrated  valerianic  acid,  placed  in  an  atmosphere  of  ammonia, 
yields  this  salt  in  crystals.  A convenient  quantity  of  valerianic  acid  (spec.  grav.  .935)  is 
placed  in  a tall,  narrow  glass  vessel  and  saturated  with  dry  ammonia  gas,  which  is  gener- 
ated from  a mixture  of  equal  weights  of  ammonium  chloride  and  slaked  lime,  the  gas 
being  dried  by  passing  it  through  a bottle  filled  with  pieces  of  burned  lime.  On  the  com- 
bination of  the  dry  ammonia  gas  with  the  acid  much  heat  is  produced,  and  after  neutral- 
ization has  been  attained  the  salt  crystallizes  readily  on  cooling ; after  several  hours  it  is 
broken  into  pieces,  drained,  if  necessary,  in  a glass  funnel,  dried  on  bibulous  paper,  and 
preserved  in  a well-stopped  bottle.  Valerianic  acid,  which  is  weaker  than  the  above 
and  of  higher  specific  gravity,  yields  few  or  no  crystals  by  this  process. 

Properties. — Ammonium  valerianate,  thus  prepared,  forms  colorless  or  white  quad- 
rangular plates  having  the  odor  of  valerianic  acid  and  possessing  a sharp  and  sweet 
taste.  It  effloresces  when  placed  in  a dry  atmosphere,  and  deliquesces  in  moist  air.  On 
the  application  of  heat  it  fuses,  giving  off  ammoniacal  and  acid  vapors,  and  is  finally  dis- 
sipated without  leaving  any  residue.  It  dissolves  freely  in  water  and  alcohol,  the  solu- 
tions being  neutral,  and  on  evaporation  acquiring  an  acid  reaction  from  the  loss  of 
ammonia.  Alkalies  decompose  it  with  the  evolution  of  ammonia,  and  the  stronger  acids 
with  the  separation  of  oily  valerianic  acid,  floating  upon  the  aqueous  solution.  Should 
the  salt  have  an  acid  reaction,  its  solution,  when  dispensed,  should  be  neutralized  by  the 
careful  addition  of  ammonia,  whereby  the  disagreeable  odor  and  taste  of  valerianic  acid 
are  masked  to  a considerable  extent. 

Tests. — Heated  to  redness  upon  platinum-foil,  the  salt  should  leave  no  residue  (potas- 
sium, etc.  salts).  A 5 per  cent,  aqueous  solution,  after  having  been  acidulated  with 
nitric  acid,  should  not  be  precipitated  by  barium  chloride  (sulphate)  or  silver  nitrate 
(chloride),  or,  after  having  been  rendered  alkaline  by  ammonia,  by  magnesium  sulphate 
(phosphate).  When  the  aqueous  solution  is  treated  with  an  excess  of  sulphuric  acid, 
and  the  clear  watery  liquid  is  nearly  neutralized  with  ammonia,  a deep-red  coloration 
should  not  be  produced  on  the  addition  of  ferric  sulphate  or  chloride  (absence  of  ace- 
tate). 

Action  and  Uses. — The  experiments  of  Parke  on  the  frog  ( Therap . Gaz.,  xi.  167) 
led  him  to  conclude  that  valerianate-of'  ammonium  in  small  doses  probably  stimulates  the 


A MPEL  OPS  IS.— A MYGDA  LA . 


193 


spinal  cord,  and  in  large  doses  depresses  it.  Like  several  other  medicines,  including  valerian 
itself,  its  influence  is  exhibited  chiefly  in  certain  morbid  conditions  due  to  exhaustion  of 
the  nervous  system.  It  was  first  employed  successfully  for  the  relief  of  neuralgia  of 
this  description,  and  it  continues  to  be  used  as  a convenient  palliative  for  that  affection, 
for  nervous  headache , nervousness , insomnia,  hysterical  disorders , palpitation  of  the  heart , etc. 

It  would  be  a waste  of  time  to  prescribe  it  in  cases  of  epilepsy,  chorea,  and  fully-formed 
hysterical  convulsions.  Dose,  from  Gm.  0.10-0.60  (gr.  ij-x)  dissolved  in  water,  with  the 
addition  of  a flavoring  tincture,  which  also  preserves  the  salt  from  decomposition. 

AMPELOPSIS. — Virginia  Creeper. 

American  ivy,  E.  ; Vigne  vierge,  Fr.  ; Wilder  Wein , Amerikanischer  Epheu , G. 

The  young  branches  and  bark  of  Ampelopsis  (Cissus,  Persoon,  Vitis,  Moench ) quinque- 
folia,  Michaux,  s.  Vitis  (Cissus,  Barton ) hederacea,  Willdenow. 

Nat.  Ord. — Vitaceae. 

Description. — The  Virginia  creeper  is  a woody  vine,  climbing  extensively  by  adven- 
titious roots  and  by  tendrils ; it  has  digitate  leaves  composed  of  five  oblong  lanceolate 
somewhat  dentate  leaflets,  and  cymose  clusters  of  greenish  flowers  with  five  unconnected 
deciduous  petals,  and  produces  two-celled  and  two-  or  four-seeded  acidulous  blue-black 
berries  of  the  size  of  a pea.  The  young  branches  and  bark  are  employed,  and  collected 
in  autumn.  The  plant  is  indigenous  to  North  America,  and  is  often  cultivated  here  and 
in  Europe  as  a covering  for  walls. 

Constituents. — The  leaves  were  analyzed  by  Wittstein  (1845)  and  by  Gorup-Besanez 
(1872  and  1874).  Collected  in  June,  they  contain  albumen,  sugar,  pyrocatechin,  free 
tartaric  acid,  potassium  bitartrate,  and  calcium  tartrate ; when  collected  in  September  no 
potassium  bitartrate  or  free  tartaric  acid  was  found,  and  in  addition  to  the  other  constit- 
uents pectin  and  glycolate  of  calcium  were  obtained.  The  berries  contained  the  same 
principles  except  glycolic  acid. 

The  root  of  Amp.  Botrya,  De  Candolle,  of  South-eastern  Africa,  is  reputed  to  possess 
diuretic  properties. 

Action  and  Uses. — There  appears  to  be  nothing  recently  added  to  the  scanty  state- 
ments long  ago  made  regarding  this  plant.  A decoction  or  infusion  of  the  bark  was  said 
to  be  useful  in  dropsy,  and  “ to  act  rather  by  stimulating  absorption  than  as  a diuretic.” 
The  therapeusis  of  this  statement  is  as  crude  as  its  physiology. 

AMYGDALA— Almond.  \| 

Amandes,  Fr. ; Mandeln,  G.  ; Almendras,  Sp.  ; Mandorle,  F.  It. 

The  seed  of  the  almond  tree,  Amygdalus  communis,  Linne,  s.  Prunus  Amygdalus, 
Stokes.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  99. 

Nat.  Ord. — Bosaceae,  Amygdaleae. 

Officinal  Varieties. — 1.  Amygdala  amara,  U.  S.,  Br. ; Amygdala  amarse,  P.  G. ; 
Semen  Amygdali  amarum. — Bitter  Almond,  E. ; Amandes  ameres,  Fr. ; Bittere  Mandeln, 

G. ; Almendras  amargas,  Sp. 

The  seed  of  Amygdalus  communis,  Linne,  var.  amara,  De  Candolle. 

2.  Amygdala  dulcis,  U.  S.,  Br. ; Amygdalae  dulces,P.  G. ; Semen  amygdali  dulce. — 
Sweet-  Almond,  E.  ; Amandes  douces,  Fr.  ; Siisse  Mandeln , G. ; Almendras  dulces,  Sp. 

The  seed  of  Amygdalus  communis,  Linne,  var.  dulcis,  De  Candolle. 

Origin. — The  almond  tree  is  probably  indigenous  to  Western  Asia,  but  at  an  early 
period  was  introduced  into  Northern  Africa  and  southern  Europe,  where  by  long  culti- 
vation numerous  varieties  have  been  produced,  differing  mainly  in  the  size  and  shape  of 
the  fruit  and  in  the  hardness  of  the  shell  (endocarp).  It  has  also  been  introduced  in  the 
warmer  parts  of  the  United  States  and  in  other  countries  of  the  warmer  temperate  and 
subtropical  regions;  in  California,  according  to  M.  J.  Murphy,  about  100  trees  are 
planted  to  the  acre,  and  begin  to  yield  fruit  when  three  years  old  of  an  average  value  of 
$50,  increasing  to  $2000  in  the  eighth  year.  The  tree  attains  a height  of  5 to  6 M. 

(15  to  20  feet,)  and  with  its  bright  green  foliage  and  large  rose-colored  or  white  flowers 
presents  a handsome  appearance.  The  fruit  is  a short-stalked,  ovate  drupe  about  38 
Mm.  (21  inches  long),  25  Mm.  (1  inch  broad),  somewhat  flattened,  with  a groove  on  one 
side,  covered  with  a greenish  leathery  sarcocarp,  which  is  whitish,  velvety,  hairy,  splits 
at  maturity,  and  falls  away  from  the  putamen  ; this  constitutes  the  commercial  almond, 
which,  at  least  in  California,  is  bleached  and  rendered  of  uniform  appearance  by  exposure 
13 


194 


AMYGDALA. 


Fig.  13. 


to  the  vapors  of  burning  sulphur,  whereby  insects  present  are  also  destroyed.  The 
putamen,  deprived  of  its  hard  shell,  the  thick  or  papery  endocarp,  furnishes  the  officinal 
almond.  The  bitter  and  sweet  almond  trees  do  not  differ  from  each  other  botanically,  and 
even  the  fruits  and  seeds  of  the  two  varieties  resemble  each  other  closely. 

Description. — The  sweet  and  bitter  almonds  cannot  be  distinguished  from  each 
other  except  by  one  of  their  constituents  and  their  taste.  Bitter  almonds  are  usually 
thinner,  broader,  and  shorter  than  the  larger  variety  of  the  sweet  almond,  which  is  ordered 
by  the  British  Pharmacopoeia,  and  which  is  known  in  our  commerce  by  the  name  of  Jor- 
dan almonds.  They  are  cultivated  in  Spain  ; the  best  are  exported  from  Malaga,  and  are 
a hard-shelled  variety,  but  are  frequently  seen  in  commerce  deprived  of  the  shell.  The 
soft-shelled  sweet  almonds  (variety  fragilis,  De  Candolle ) are  cultivated  largely  in  the 
Balearic  Isles  (Majorca),  and  are  exported  from  Valencia  and  the  Mediterranean  ports  of 
France  and  Italy.  The  cheapest  variety  are  the  Barbary  almonds,  which  are  small  and 
unsightly  in  appearance. 

Jordan  or  Malaga  almonds  are  about  25  Mm.  (an  inch)  in  length  and  15  Mm.  (-J  inch) 
broad,  flattened,  and  ovate-lanceolate  in  shape.  The  testa  is  of  a cinnamon-brown  color 
and  scurfy  upon  its  surface  from  detached  cells  ; it  adheres  to  the  whitish  tegmen,  and 
the  two  integuments  are  easily  detached  from  the  white  embryo  or  kernel  (blanched) 
after  the  seed  has  been  soaked  in  lukewarm  water  fora  short  time.  The  hilum  is  just 
below  the  pointed  end  and  upon  one  edge  of  the  almond,  the  raphe  running  along  this 
edge  to  the  broad  end,  where  it  forms  the  broad  chalaza,  and  divides  into  about  sixteen 

branches,  which  pass  in  plainly  visible  lines 
Fig.  12.  toward  the  pointed  end.  The  embryo 

consists  of  two  plano-convex  white  and  oily 
cotyledons  of  the  size  and  shape  of  the 
seed,  between  which,  near  the  pointed  end, 
the  flat  plumule  is  placed,  with  the  short 
thick  radicle  somewhat  projecting.  The 
tissue  of  the  embryo  is  made  up,  besides  a 
small  number  of  delicate  fibro-vascular  bun- 
dles, of  thin-walled,  irregularly  angular  par- 
enchyma-cells filled  with  fixed  oil  and  gran- 
ules of  different  size.  Almonds  are  inodor- 
rous,  and  have  a sweetish  bland,  nutty  taste, 
that  of  the  bitter  variety  being  decidedly 
bitter  and  aromatic. 

The  embryo  of  both  varieties  of  almonds 
yields,  on  being  triturated  with  water,  a milk- 
Aimond.  white  emulsion,  which  is  either  inodorous  and 
sweet  or  aromatic  and  bitter,  according  to  the 
variety  used. 

Constituents. — Both  varieties  of  almonds  have  qualitatively  the  same  composition, 
except  that  amygdalin  is  found  in  bitter  but  not  in  sweet  almonds.  The  fixed  oil  (see 
Oleum  Amygdalae  Expressum)  is  present  to  the  amount  of  45  to  56  per  cent.,  the 
sweet  almonds  yielding  usually  from  5 to  10  per  cent,  more  than  the  bitter.  About  3 per 
cent,  of  mucilaginous  matter,  6 per  cent,  of  sugar,  and  24  to  30  per  cent,  of  protein  com- 
pounds, besides  water  and  cellular  tissue,  are  found  in  almonds.  On  keeping  almonds  for 
several  days  in  absolute  alcohol  they  become  covered  with  minute  crystals,  which  Portes 
(1876)  recognized  as  asparagin.  Ludwig  and  Scheitz  (1872)  found  in  unblanched  almonds 
tannin,  giving  a green  reaction  with  ferric  salt,  green  resin,  and  a bitterish  acrid  yellow 
substance,  which  is  possibly  a glucoside ; the  three  compounds  seem  to  be  contained  only 
in  the  integuments;  the  last  two  yield  with  caustic  soda  a cherry-red  color,  which,  with 
more  alkali,  turns  dingy-green.  The  sugar  of  almonds  is  mostly  glucose,  but  Pelouze 
obtained  (1855)  also  cane-sugar.  The  two  protein  compounds  are,  according  to  Bitthausen 
(1872),  modifications  of  vegetable  casein.  Both  are  soluble  in  cold  water;  one,  the  con- 
glutin  of  Bitthausen  and  amandin  of  Comaille  (1866),  being  precipitated  by  acetic  acid, 
while  the  second  compound,  known  as  emnlsin  or  synaptase , may  afterward  be  precipitated 
by  alcohol,  together  with  some  inorganic  salts.  Both  protein  compounds  act  as  emulsion- 
izing  agents  in  suspending  the  fixed  oil  when  the  almonds  are  triturated  with  water ; but 
it  appears  to  be  the  emulsin  only  which  is  capable  of  decomposing  the  amygdalin  of  bitter 
almonds  into  hydrocyanic  acid  and  benzaldehyd.  (See  Oleum  Amygdalae  Amar^e.) 

Amygdalin , C2oH27NOu,  was  discovered  by  Bobiquet  and  Boutron-Charlard  (1830)  by 


Almond : section  through  seed-coats 
and  portion  of  cotyledon.  Magni- 
fied 190  diameters. 


AMYL  NIT R IS. 


195 


exhausting  bitter  almonds,  deprived  of  their  fixed  oil,  by  alcohol ; they  also  observed  that 
the  residue  would  not  yield  oil  of  bitter  almonds  in  contact  with  water.  Liebig  and 
Wohler  found  (1837)  that  amygdalin,  on  being  decomposed  by  emulsin,  yields,  besides  oil 
of  bitter  almonds  and  hydrocyanic  acid,  also  grape-sugar ; it  was  the  first  glucoside  dis- 
covered. Amygdalin  is  obtained  from  bitter  almonds  to  the  amount  of  from  1 to  3 per 
cent.,  and  is  also  contained  in  the  bark,  leaves,  flowers,  and  seeds  of  many  trees  and  shrubs 
of  the  sub-orders  Amygdaleae  and  Pomeae  ; according  to  Henschen  (1872),  also  in  minute 
quantity  in  sweet  almonds,  and,  according  to  Ritthausen  and  Kreussler  (1870),  in  the 
vetch.  It  occurs  sometimes  in  an  amorphous  condition,  but  as  obtained  by  alcohol  from 
bitter  almonds,  peach-kernels,  etc.  it  crystallizes  with  2H20,  the  water  being  expelled  at 
120°  C.  (248°  F.).  It  is  soluble  in  about  15  parts  of  water,  has  no  odor,  but  a bitter 
taste,  and  is  not  poisonous  unless  decomposed  by  emulsin.  Henschen  found  that  this 
decomposition  is  also  effected  by  rye-,  wheat-,  and  pea-flour,  but  it  is  uncertain  whether  by 
the  agency  of  emulsin  or  another  proteid.  17  grains  of  anhydrous  amygdalin  yield  1 
grain  of  hydrocyanic  acid.  On  boiling  amygdalin  with  an  alkali  it  is  decomposed  into 
ammonia  and  amygdalic  acid , C2oH28013,  the  latter,  on  being  boiled  with  dilute  acids,  yield- 
ing glucose  and  mandelic  or  phenylgly  colic  acid , C8H803  or  C6H5.CHOH.COOH. 

Almonds  yield  from  3 to  5 per  cent,  of  ash,  consisting  mainly  of  potassium,  calcium, 
and  magnesium  phosphates. 

Preservation. — Bitter  almonds  should  be  kept  unbroken  and  in  a dry  atmosphere, 
to  prevent  the  decomposition  of  amygdalin  and  of  the  fixed  oil.  Almonds  the  embryo 
of  which  has  become  discolored  or  acquired  a rancid  odor  and  taste,  or  has  been  partly 
converted  into  gum  (bassorin),  as  described  by  Vulpius  (1878),  are  unfit  for  medicinal 
purposes. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Both  varieties  are  employed  for  obtaining  Oleum  amyg- 
dalae and  in  preparing  Syrupus  amygdalae.  Sweet  almonds  enter  into  the  composition  of 
Mistura  amygdalae,  Syrupus  amygdalae,  U.  S.,  and  Pulv.  amygdalae  comp.,  Br. 

Action  and  Uses. — Sweet  almond  is  used  to  prepare  an  emulsion,  and  also  an  oil, 
which  are  treated  of  elsewhere.  With  it  a kind  of  bread  is  made  which  is  a tolerable 
substitute  for  wheaten  bread  in  the  treatment  of  diabetes.  Bitter  almonds  and  their 
essential  oil  are  excessively  poisonous  in  large  doses,  owing  to  the  quantity  of  hydro- 
cyanic acid  developed  in  the  former  by  admixture  with  water  and  by  the  presence 
of  the  same  acid  in  the  latter.  A drachm  of  bitter-almond  pulp  will  kill  a pigeon  or  a 
kitten  The  symptoms  produced  in  man  by  an  overdose  of  this  substance  are  great 
debility  and  depression,  cyanosis,  collapse,  convulsions  or  muscular  rigidity  (see  Acid 
Hydrocyanicum),  and,  if  the  dose  is  fatal,  insensibility  occurs  suddenly,  with  frothing 
at  the  nose  and  mouth,  and  after  death  the  eyes  remain  fixed  and  glistening.  Non-pois- 
onous  doses  are  apt  to  produce  an  eruption  of  urticaria — an  effect  which  sometimes 
follows  the  ingestion  of  sweet  almonds. 

In  preparing  the  almond  for  food  in  cases  of  diabetes , it  is  first  blanched,  then  sub- 
jected to  a strong  pressure  to  expel  a portion  of  the  oil,  treated  with  boiling  water 
slightly  acidulated  with  tartaric  acid  to  remove  the  sugar,  and  then  ground  to  a fine 
powder,  which  can  be  made  into  cakes  and  puddings  with  eggs  and  cream.  These  prod- 
ucts have  a pleasant  taste  and  are  said  to  be  quite  digestible. 

The  proper  treatment  of  poisoning  by  bitter  almonds  consists  in  evacuating  the  stomach 
by  means  of  the  finger  in  the  throat  or  the  administration  of  a mechanical  emetic,  such 
as  sulphate  of  zinc.  If  the  patient  is  unable  to  swallow,  the  stomach-pump  should  be 
used.  If  respiration  fails,  the  galvanic  battery  should  be  resorted  to  without  delay.  Re- 
action may  be  promoted  by  small  but  repeated  doses  of  brandy  or  whiskey  and  the  appli- 
cation of  ammonia  to  the  nostrils. 

AMYL  NITRIS,  V.  S.,  Br.— Amyl  Nitrite. 

Amylium  nitrosum,  P.  Gr. ; Amylsether  nitrosus. — Amylo-nitrous  ether , E.  ; Azotite  d'amyl , 
Ether  amylazoteux , Fr.  ; Amylnitrit , Gr. ; Etere  isoamil  nitroso , F.  It. ; Nitrito  de  amilo , Sp. 

Formula  C5HuN02.  Molecular  weight  116.78. 

A liquid  containing  about  80  per  cent,  of  amyl  (chiefly  isoamyl)  nitrite,  together  with 
variable  quantities  of  undetermined  compounds. — U S. 

A liquid  produced  by  the  action  of  nitric  or  nitrous  acid  on  amylic  alcohol,  which 
volatilizes  between  128°  and  132°  0.  (262°  and  270°  F.).  It  consists  chiefly  of  amyl 
nitrite.  — Br. 

Preparation. — Purified  amylic  alcohol  is  introduced  into  a capacious  glass  retort 


196 


AMYL  NITRIS. 


with  about  an  equal  bulk  of  nitric  acid ; a gradually  increasing  heat  is  applied  until  the 
mixture  approaches  boiling,  when  the  reaction  will  proceed  spontaneously.  The  distillate 
is  collected  until  the  temperature  in  the  retort  rises  above  100°  C.  (212°  F.),  the  portion 
distilling  at  a higher  temperature  containing  much  amyl  nitrate  and  ethyl  amylic  ether. 
The  distillate  obtained  below  100°  is  agitated  with  water  and  an  alkali  (potassa,  lime,  or 
their  carbonates)  to  remove  hydrocyanic,  nitric,  and  nitrous  acids ; and  the  oily  layer, 
which  separates,  is  rectified  from  a clean  retort  by  a gradually-increased  heat,  amylic 
aldehyde  coming  over  in  the  first  portion  ; that  distilling  between  95°  and  100°  C.  is  col- 
lected separately.  (See  Airier.  Jour,  of  Pharmacy , 1871,  p.  147.)  If  not  carefully 
rectified  it  requires  to  be  purified  by  fractional  distillation.  This  is  Balard’s  process 
(1844),  with  some  modifications. 

The  process  now  generally  followed  is  identical  with  the  one  prescribed  in  the  Phar- 
macopoeia for  the  manufacture  of  ethyl  nitrite  in  the  preparation  of  spirit  of  nitrous 
ether,  except  that  amylic  alcohol  is  substituted  for  common  or  ethylic  alcohol.  A mixture 
of  sodium  nitrite,  amylic  alcohol,  and  diluted  sulphuric  acid  is  subjected  to  distillation 
in  a retort,  that  portion  being  collected  which  vaporizes  between  95°  and  100°  C. ; the 
distillate  is  well  washed  with  a solution  of  sodium  carbonate,  dehydrated  with  pure 
potassium  carbonate,  and  redistilled  below  100°  C.  (212°  F.).  The  reaction  occurring  is 
explained  by  the  following  equation : 2C5HuOH  2NaN02  + H2S04  = 2C5HUN02  -f 
Na2S04  + 2H.,0 ; theoretically,  138  parts  of  sodium  nitrite  are  capable  of  producing 
234  parts  of  amyl  nitrite ; this  yield,  however,  is  never  obtained,  owing  to  impurities  in 
the  amylic  alcohol  and  sodium  salt,  as  well  as  possible  carelessness  during  the  process. 

Properties. — Amyl  nitrite  is  an  ethereal  liquid  of  a yellowish  color,  a neutral  reac- 
tion, a peculiar  not  disagreeable  fruit-like  odor,  and  a pungent  aromatic  taste.  The  U.  S. 
Pharmacopoeia  requires  its  spec.  grav.  to  be  0.870-0.880,  while  Rieckher  has  determined 
it  to  be  .877  and  Bunge  .905  at  14.5°  C.  (58°  F.).  Amyl  nitrite  boils  constantly  and 
without  being  decomposed  at  96°  C.  (205°  F.)  (W.  H.  Greene,  1879),  or,  according  to 
Chapman  (1867),  between  98°  and  99°  C. ; the  vapor  is  orange-colored  and  has  the  density 
4.03.  Amyl  nitrite  burns  with  a bright  fawn-colored  and  sooty  flame.  It  is  insoluble  in 
water,  but  dissolves  in  all  proportions  in  rectified  spirit  and  other  alcohols,  in  ethers,  carbon 
disulphide,  benzene,  benzin,  and  other  hydrocarbons.  It  dissolves  fixed  oils,  fatty  acids, 
phosphorus,  and  a small  proportion  of  sulphur,  caoutchouc,  and  gutta-percha.  On  expos- 
ure to  air  and  light  it  acquires  an  acid  reaction,  and  should  therefore  be  preserved  in  small 
glass-stoppered  vials  kept  in  a cool  and  dark  place — according  to  P.  G.  with  a few  crys- 
tals of  potassium  tartrate,  whereby  an  undue  amount  of  free  acid  will  be  prevented.  In 
contact  with  potassa  solution  it  is  gradually  decomposed,  with  the  formation  of  amyl 
alcohol  and  potassium  nitrite,  the  decomposition  being  accelerated  by  warming  and  in  the 
presence  of  alcohol ; the  presence  of  nitrite  is  shown  by  adding  to  the  alkaline  liquid  a 
little  potassium  iodide,  then  acetic  acid  to  an  acid  reaction ; an  immediate  separation  of 
iodine  will  take  place,  and  on  the  addition  of  gelatinized  starch  a deep-blue  color  will 
appear  (distinction  from  nitrate).  If  it  be  added  drop  by  drop  to  caustic  potassa  heated 
to  fusion,  potassium  valerianate  will  be  formed,  frequently  with  the  production  of  flame. 

The  commercial  product  is  frequently  very  impure.  Sixteen  samples,  European  and 
American  products,  examined  by  Curtmann  (1892),  contained,  respectively,  27.14,  33.9, 
37.68,  39.6,  59.33,  65.35,  66.36,  67.83,  71.32,  73.81,  76.24,  81.37,  83.03,  84.23,  86.13, 
and  93.71  per  cent,  of  true  amyl  nitrite. 

Tests. — Amyl  nitrite  should  remain  transparent  or  nearly  so  when  exposed  to  the 
temperature  of  melting  ice  (absence  of  water). — U.  S.  and  P.  G.  On  shaking  10  Cc. 
of  amyl  nitrite  with  2 Cc.  of  a mixture  of  1 part  of  water  of  ammonia  and  9 parts 
of  water,  the  liquid  should  not  redden  blue  litmus-paper  (limit  of  free  acid). — U.  S.  and 
P.  G.  If  equal  volumes  of  amyl  nitrite  and  test-solution  of  potassa  be  shaken  together, 
the  aqueous  layer  should  not  acquire  a deeper  tint  than  pale  yellow  (limit  of  aldehyde). 
— U.  S.  The  Br.  Ph.  requires  at  least  70  per  cent,  of  distillate  between  90°  and  100° 
C.  (194°  and  212°  F.).  The  amount  of  amyl  nitrite  present  is  directed  by  the  U.  S.  Ph. 
to  be  estimated  gasometrically  as  follows : If  0.26  Gm.  of  amyl  nitrite,  diluted  with  5 

Cc.  of  alcohol,  be  introduced  into  a nitrometer,  followed  by  10  Cc.  of  potassium  iodide 
test-solution,  and  afterward  by  10  Cc.  of  normal  sulphuric  acid,  the  volume  of  nitric 
oxide  generated,  measured  at  the  ordinary  indoor  temperature  (assumed  to  be  at  or  near 
25°  C.  or  77°  F.),  should  be  about  40  Cc.”  The  pharmacopoeial  requirement  is  no  doubt 
sufficiently  accurate  for  general  purposes,  but  the  equation,  C5HnN02  + KI  H2S04  = 
C5HnOH  + NO  -(-  I -f  KHSO4,  shows  that  116.78  Gm.  of  amyl  nitrite,  upon  oxidation, 
yield  29.97  Gm.  of  nitric  oxide;  1 Cc.  of  nitric  oxide,  therefore,  at  25°  C.  (77°  F.), 


AMYL  NITRI8. 


197 


weighing  0,0012297  Gtn,  must  he  equal  to  0.0047923  Gm  of  amyl  nitrite,  and  nearly 
43.5  Go.  of  NO  ga s should  be  generated  at  25°  C.  (77°  F.)  instead  of  40,  as  stated  in  the 
Pharmacopoeia  to  indicate  80  per  cent,  of  arnvl  nitrite  in  the  official  test;  80  percent,  of 
0.26  Gm.  is  0.208,  and  0.0047923  X 43.5  = 0.208465. 

Allied  Compounds. — Amvi.  Nitras,  amyl  nitrate,  C6H,.\02. — It  was  discovered  by  W. 
Hofmann  (1848),  and  is  most  advantageously  prepared,  according  to  Chapman  and  Smith  (1807). 
by  dropping  through  a long  tube,  and  with  mnniant  stirring , 50  Cc.  of  arnylic  alcohol  into  150 
Cc.  of  a mixture  made  of  1 volume  of  nitric  and  2 volumes  of  sulphuric  acid,  and  kept  cool  by 
ice  and  table-salt.  Without  any  visible  reaction  an  oily  layer  of  amyl  nitrate  separates  on  the 
surface,  which  is  obtained  pure  by  washing  with  dilute  potassa  solution  and  water,  drying  with 
calcium  chloride,  and  rectifying.  It  is  a colorless  oily  liquid  of  a peculiar  odor  and  sweet  and 
burning  taste.  Its  density  at  15°  O.  is  0.902,  and  it  boils  at  147°  G.  (296.6°  F.)  It  dissolves  in 
glacial  acetic  acid,  benzene,  and  in  ethylic,  methylic,  and  arnylic  alcohol,  but  not  in  water. 

Action  and  Uses. — When  5 or  6 drops  of  nitrite  of  amyl  are  inhaled  the  heart 
becomes  excited,  the  pulse  rising  from  70  to  160  ; its  force,  as  measured  by  the  sphygmo- 
graph,  diminishes,  hut  practically  is  increased,  for  all  clinical  observation  proves  that  it 
directly  or  indirectly  enables  the  heart  to  overcome  embarrassment;  the  skin,  especially  of 
the  face,  turns  crimson  ; some  vertigo  is  experienced,  and  the  breathing  is  hurried  as  it  is 
after  rapid  walking.  If  the  dose  is  large  the  sight  may  be  dimmed,  and  in  the  field  of  vision 
sometimes  a yellow  circle  appears,  surrounded  by  a violet  border.  It  neither  increases  nor 
lessens  general  sensibility.  In  full  doses  it  depresses  the  normal  temperature  by  from 
1°  to  3°  F.  Sanders  has  recorded  cases  in  which  sudden  collapse  followed  upon  its 
administration,  and  Samclsohn  one  in  which  the  usual  flush  was  succeeded  by  deadly 
pallor,  the  pulse  becoming  thread-like  and  slow,  the  skin  cold  and  clammy,  and  respira- 
tion difficult  and  gasping,  although  consciousness  was  retained.  Others  are  referred  to 
by  Jastrowitz.  Dugau  (1879)  relates  that  after  continuing  to  breathe  the  vapor  for  a 
considerable  time  he  suffered  from  distressing  and  irregular  palpitation  of  the  heart,  with 
pallor,  debility,  vertigo,  and  loss  of  appetite.  During  the  inhalation  the  patient  is  gen- 
erally conscious  of  giddiness,  a feeling  of  the  head  being  inordinately  large,  a diffused 
glow,  and  throbbing  of  the  heart  and  large  arteries.  It  is  alleged  that  the  action  of  this 
medicine  is  exceedingly  capricious — that  while  some  persons  can  without  injury  inhale 
30  or  40  drops,  others  are  sensibly  affected  even  by  a fraction  of  a drop.  It  does  not 
appear,  as  has  been  alleged,  to  increase  the  acidity  of  the  urine,  but  it  does  augment  its 
amount. 

Dr.  Senter  has  reported  the  case  of  a lady  who  swallowed  a dessertspoonful  (f%ij)  of 
nitrite  of  amyl.  Twenty-five  minutes  later  she  was  vomiting,  her  face  grayish  white,  the 
pupils  widely  dilated,  and  the  eyes  glassy  and  rolling.  The  mouth  was  open,  the  breath- 
ing alternately  rapid  and  slow,  arid  then  was  almost  suspended.  The  pulse,  irregular  and 
jerking  at  first,  become  very  slow  and  hardly  perceptible.  The  muscles  were  all  relaxed; 
the  skin,  cold  and  sweating,  exhaled  an  odor  of  amyl.  The  patient  recovered  under  the 
use  of  coffee,  laudanum,  heat,  friction,  and  flagellation  (Amer.  Jour,  of  Phar.,  Mar.  1881, 
p.  137).  In  the  case  of  a man  affected  with  pulmonary  phthisis  death  followed  the  inha- 
lation of  7 drachms  of  nitrite  of  amyl  (Boston  Mad.  and  Burg.  Jour.,  May,  1883,  p. 
526.)  Ringer  has  related  several  cases  in  which  very  small  and  even  minute  doses 
produced  unconsciousness,  and  Strahan  one  in  which  thp  hypodermic  administration  of 
10  minims  of  a 10  per  cent,  solution  of  the  compound  occasioned  pallor,  and  then 
epileptiform  convulsions  ( Practiti/mer , xxxiii.  452). 

The  power  of  nitrite  of  amyl  to  dilate  the  capillaries  is  said  to  have  suggested  its  use 
in  angina  pectoris , epilepsy,  and  other  spasmodic  diseases.  It  is  certain  that  in  many 
cases  of  the  first-named  disease  the  inhalation  of  2 or  3 drops  suffices  to  arrest  the 
paroxysm  of  pain  or  materially  to  mitigate  it.  The  various  lesions  which  may  give  rise 
to  angina  render  these  differences  of  effect  intelligible.  In  some  cases,  probably  those 
which  are  either  purely  functional  or  connected  with  the  less  serious  organic  lesions  of 
the  heart  and  aorta,  the  habit  of  using  the  medicine  appears  to  render  the  attacks  both 
less  frequent  and  less  severe.  This  result  may  ensue  even  when  organic  softening  of  the 
heart  exists,  with  atheroma  of  its  arteries;  for  the  medicine  dilates  the  blood-vessels, 
and  therefore  relieves  them  from  the  tension  of  the  blood  within  them.  But  in  course 
of  time,  like  other  nervines,  its  influence  declines.  The  mode  of  action  of  the  medi- 
cine in  this  disease  appears  to  he  anodyne,  and  at  the  same  time  antispasmodic.  It 
should  be  very  cautiously  used,  and  most  of  all  when  there  is  reason  to  suspect 
degeneration  of  the  arteries  of  the  brain.  In  pure  neuralgia,  especially  of  the  fifth 
nerve,  it  sometimes  relieves  the  pain  promptly  ; and  the  same  may  be  said  of  neu- 


198 


AMYL  NITRIS. 


ralgic  headache  and  of  gastralgia.  In  spasmodic  asthma  also  it  frequently  brings 
prompt  relief  in  proportion  as  the  character  of  the  attack  is  nervous.  In  several 
cases  it  appears  to  have  suspended  dyspnoea  produced  by  fatty  degeneration  and  other 
debilitating  lesions  of  the  heart.  It  has  also  been  used  in  whooping  cough.  In  1877 
ten  cases  of  the  disease  were  reported  by  D.  Bayles,  who  claimed  for  the  nitrite  a 
positive  value  “in  allaying  the  violence  and  limiting  the  duration  of  the  cough.”  (Trans. 
JSF.  Y.  State  Med.  Soc .,  1877,  p.  181).  A striking  case  is  reported  by  Dr.  T.  M.  Lewis 
( Tlierap . Gaz .,  x.  231).  In  persistent  hiccup  occuring  without  known  cause  nitrite  of 
amyl  has  arrested  the  attack  after  the  failure  of  cautery,  atropine,  and  chloroform  (Med. 
Record , xxii.  231).  It  has  relieved  infantile  spasm  of  the  glottis  (Williams)  and  the 
vomiting  of  pregnancy.  In  syncope  from  post-partum  haemorrhage  it  has  restored  con- 
sciousness and  saved  life  (Kohler ; Kerr),  and  dissipated  the  dizziness  and  faintness 
caused  by  anaemia  or  by  such  severe  pain  as  hepatic  and  renal  colic  produce  (Kurz).  It 
may  be  believed  that  these  effects  are  due  to  the  power  which  the  nitrite  has  of  dilating 
the  blood-vessels,  for  they  are  observed  in  other  affections  to  which  this  explanation 
applies.  One  is  sea-sichness , in  which  the  subjective  symptoms  seem  due  to  cerebral 
anasmia,  and  are  promptly  relieved  by  this  medicine  (Clapham,  Lancet , June,  1879); 
another  is  the  vertigo  and  syncope  which  accompany  various  obstructive  or  asystolic 
lesions,  such  as  mitral  insufficiency,  dilatation,  and  softening  of  the  heart.  It  may  be 
added  that  this  preparation  has  been  used  to  distinguish  anaemia  from  congestion  of  the 
brain — conditions  which  are  often  very  much  alike  in  their  phenomena.  The  nitrite 
palliates  the  former,  but  aggravates  the  latter  state.  In  pneumonia  involving  a large 
portion  of  both  lungs,  and  therefore  producing  a relative  debility  of  the  heart  and  imper- 
fect supply  of  blood  to  the  brain,  it  has  been  given  by  the  stomach  with  marked  advan- 
tage (Keating).  It  is  said  that  the  chill  of  intermittent  fever  has  been  abruptly  arrested 
by  the  inhalation  of  this  vapor,  while  the  febrile  stage  was  correspondingly  shortened ; 
and  also  that  a like  effect  has  been  produced  in  the  paroxysm  of  dysmenorrhoea  (Boston 
Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  Dec.  1881,  p.  597).  The  medicine  has  been  used  to  combat  the 
nightsweats  of  phthisis,  but  in  the  reported  cases  (Murrell,  Practitioner , xxiii.  97)  the 
dose  employed  was  too  insignificant  to  be  efficient  and  the  results  were  mainly  negative. 
There  appears  to  be  good  reason  for  believing  that  it  sometimes  cures  chorea , but  for 
this  purpose  it  must  be  administered  two  or  three  times  daily  for  several  days.  Several 
cases  of  traumatic  tetanus  have  recovered  under  its  use ; and  since,  in  experiments  upon 
frogs  tetanized  by  strychnine,  death  was  prevented  by  the  use  of  nitrite  of  amyl  until  the 
elimination  of  the  poison,  it  is  probable  that  the  same  effect  might  ensue,  and  even  more 
promptly,  in  man.  In  the  cases  of  tetanus  successfully  treated  by  the  nitrite  it  was 
administered  two  or  three  times  a day,  and  in  doses  of  only  5 drops.  In  trismus  nascen- 
tium  it  has  also  been  found  to  control  the  spasms.  The  same  statement  is  true  of  puer- 
peral eclampsia.  In  one  such  case  the  use  of  the  medicine  was  followed  by  relaxation 
of  the  uterus  and  profuse  haemorrhage.  In  infantile  convulsions  its  utility  has  been 
shown,  even  when  the  child  was  brought  to  death’s  door  by  a farrago  of  medicines, 
including  chloral,  chloroform,  and  morphine ; and  in  hydrophobia , although  incapable  of 
staying  the  advance  of  death,  it  has  enabled  the  patient  to  take  food  and  drink  and 
lessened  the  horror  of  impending  dissolution.  In  hysterical  convulsions  it  has  also  arrested 
the  paroxysm,  but  in  no  degree  modified  the  general  course  of  the  disease  or  lessened 
the  frequency  of  the  attacks.  If  we  may  trust  the  published  reports,  its  influence  upon 
epilepsy  is  more  permanent  and  radical : it  would  seem  not  only  to  prevent  the  develop- 
ment of  the  paroxysms  when  applied  early,  but  also  to  render  their  occurrence  less  fre- 
quent. This  is  particularly  true  of  cases  in  which  several  successive  convulsions  make 
up  the  paroxysm.  Necessarily,  it  must  be  most  useful  when  the  fit  is  preceded  by  an 
aura  or  other  warning  symptom  ; but  even  in  those  cases  in  which  the  fits  are  subintrant 
the  remedy  usually  produces  a very  sensible  amelioration.  It  is  to  be  noted  that  when 
it  it  is  employed  during  the  fit,  and  when  the  face  is  very  livid,  this  color  is  gradually 
replaced  by  a vivid  flush  as  consciousness  returns,  Epilepsy  cannot  be  cured  by  this 
medicine.  It  has  been  employed  to  relieve  pain  of  a more  or  less  spastnodic  nature 
occurring  in  the  oesophagus,  diaphragm,  stomach,  bowels,  bladder,  urethra,  uterus,  vagina, 
etc.,  including  pains  during  and  after  labor , dysmenorrhoea , etc,  A case  of  blepharospasm 
is  recorded  in  which  the  patient  is  said  to  have  been  cured  by  its  inhalation  in  very 
unusual  doses — viz.  from  f^ss  to  f^j  from  one  to  three  times  a day  for  four  successive  days. 
A case  of  strychnine-poisoning  in  which  the  tetanic  phenomena  were  very  severe  was  cured 
by  the  repeated  inhalation  of  nitrite  of  amyl,  which  effectually  averted  or  greatly  modi- 
fied the  fits  as  often  as  it  was  administered  (Barnes,  British  Mecl.  Jour.,  Apr.  1,  1882). 


AMYL  NITRIS. 


199 


Dr.  H.  A.  Hare  has  shown,  by  experiments  on  rabbits  that  the  fleeting  influence  of  amyl- 
nitrite  inhalations  cannot  be  relied  upon  to  counteract  the  continuous  operation  of  strych- 
nine ( Boston  Med.  and  Sun/.  Jour .,  Nov.  1884,  p.  481).  It  may  be  supplemented  by 
administering  amyl  nitrite  by  the  mouth.  Nitrite-of-amyl  inhalation  has  relieved  chordee. 
It  has  arrested  the  paroxysm  of  intermittent  fever  when  inhaled  during  the  cold  stage  in 
the  dose  of  4 drops.  In  a case  of  exophthalmic  goitre  2 drops  were  found  to  be  an 
excessive  dose,  and  “ one-tenth  of  a drop  ” was  directed  to  be  taken  half  an  hour  before 
eating,  with  complete  relief  of  all  the  subjective  symptoms  (Blake).  The  patient  was  a 
nervous  female. 

One  of  the  most  important  qualities  of  nitrite  of  amyl  consists  in  the  antagonism  of 
its  primary  action  to  chloroform  syncope.  It  is  certain  that  chloroform  contracts,  and 
that  nitrite  of  amyl  dilates,  the  capillaries  of  the  brain  and  of  the  skin  of  the  face ; 
under  the  former  the  patient  grows  pale,  under  the  latter  he  is  flushed.  In  experiments 
upon  animals,  if  the  nitrite  be  used  in  an  excessive  dose,  cyanosis  arises  in  consequence 
of  venous  engorgement.  Experiments  have  also  shown  that  if  it  is  given  in  full 
doses  to  an  animal  already  narcotized  by  chloroform,  it  deepens  instead  of  relieving 
the  narcotism,  while  if  it  be  administered  in  moderate  quantities,  either  by  inhalation 
or  hypodermically,  it  revives  the  heart’s  action  and  removes  the  pallor  caused  by 
the  chloroform.  These  effects  have  been  happily  illustrated  in  at  least  eight  cases  of 
chloroform-poisoning.  In  all  of  them  the  patients  were  rescued  from  imminent  death. 
The  salutary  or  pernicious  effects  of  the  nitrite  being  due  to  the  amount  of  it  admin- 
istered, we  may  explain  why  Testa  should  have  fallen  into  the  error  of  declaring  that  it 
intensifies  the  dangers  which  chloroform  creates.  Besides  the  cases  just  mentioned  of 
its  remedial  power  in  chloroform  syncope,  others  might  be  cited  to  show  that  it  is  equally 
efficacious  when  injected  hypodermically  in  the  dose  of  3 minims  (Med.  Record , xxi. 
335).  The  nitrite  has  also  been  used  with  advantage  in  poisoning  by  chloral  ( British 
Med.  Jour.,  June,  1879).  Like  alcohol  and  other  excitants  of  the  heart  and  nervous 
system,  it  has  been  found  of  service  in  various  states  of  exhaustion  and  typhoid  depression. 
As  its  action  is  fugitive,  its  adminstration  must  in  such  cases  be  frequently  repeated. 
It  has  been  successfully  employed  in  several  cases  of  carbonic-acid  poisoning  and  to 
relieve  insomnia  produced  by  the  opium  habit.  A case  of  prompt  restoration  from  opium 
coma  by  means  of  this  agent  is  recorded  (Med.  Record,  xxvi.  13),  and  also  one  of  threat- 
ening death  from  the  hypodermic  use  of  a very  small  dose  of  cocaine  ( Gentralbl.  f.  d.  g. 
Therap .,  iv.  88).  Imperfect  vision  due  to  insufficient  blood-supply  to  the  retina 
(amblyopia'),  and  which  strychnine  has  failed  or  ceased  to  profit,  has  sometimes  improved 
under  this  medicine  ; and  in  many  cases  of  subjective  noises  in  the  ear  the  repeated  use 
of  it  has  afforded  great  relief  when  the  tinnitus  has  not  been  due  to  a mechanical  cause. 
Applied  locally,  it  is  anodyne,  relieving  the  pain  of  headache,  toothache,  earache,  neuralgia, 
dysmenorrhcea , etc.  Fetor  from  gangrene,  the  decomposition  of  morbid  growths,  the 
putrefaction  of  secretions  and  exudations,  etc.,  may  be  corrected  by  solutions  of  this 
preparation. 

Nitrite  of  amyl  may  be  given  in  the  dose  of  from  Gm.  0.12-0.30  (3  to  5 drops)  by 
the  mouth,  dissolved  in  a little  aromatic  spirit.  Dr.  Bichardson  recommends  the  follow- 
ing : Amyl  nitrite  (pure)  n^xxv  ; Ethylic  alcohol  (sp.  gr.  830)  £v  ; Pure  glycerin  to  ^iss. 
To  make  a mixture  of  twelve  doses.  One  fluidrachm  to  be  taken  in  a wineglassful  of 
warm  water  (Asclepiad,,  July,  1884).  Like  most  other  medicines  which  act  directly  upon 
the  nervous  system,  it  rapidly  becomes  tolerated  in  increased  doses.  Dugau  relates  that 
in  experiments  on  himself  he  could  at  first  inhale  no  more  than  5 drops,  but  he  gradually 
became  able  to  inspire  the  vapor  largely  without  occasioning  symptoms  which  in  the 
beginning  seemed  alarming.  Bourneville  frequently  gave  it  in  doses  of  20  drops.  We 
have  found  but  one  case  recorded  of  its  fatal  use,  and  that  was  from  an  excessive 
dose.  It  has  sometimes  been  injected  hypodermically  in  cases  of  chloroform-poison- 
ing, and  without  occasioning  any  local  irritation.  Usually,  nitrite  of  ayml  is  admin- 
istered by  inhalation,  about*  5 drops  being  poured  upon  the  palm  of  the  hand,  a piece 
of  sponge,  or  a folded  napkin  ; or  else  it  is  carried  in  a well-stopped  bottle  (especially  by 
epileptics),  to  be  used  when  the  fit  threatens.  Tubes  and  (still  better)  “ tears  ” of  glass 
containing  about  Gm.  0.30  (n^v)  each  are  also  employed  by  the  same  class  of  patients, 
the  glass  being  crushed  in  a handkerchief  and  its  contents  inhaled.  It  should  rarely  be 
used  when  syncope  is  produced  by  profuse  haemorrhage  or  when  there  is  organic  disease 
of  the  heart  or  brain. 


200 


AMYLENUM  HYDRA  TUM. 


AMYLENUM  HYDRATUM,  G.— Amylene  Hydrate. 

Dimethyl-ethylcarbinol , Tertiary  amylic  alcohol , E. ; Hydrate  d?  amylene,  Fr.  ; Amylen- 
hydrat , G. 

Formula  2CH3.C2H5.C.OH.  = C5H120.  Molecular  weight  87.81. 

Origin. — Of  the  alcohols  corresponding  to  the  general  formula  C5HnOH  no  less  than 
eight  are  theoretically  possible,  and  of  this  number  seven  have  been  actually  prepared. 
The  best  known  of  the  amylic  alcohols  is  that  produced  in  the  fermentation  of  grain, 
potatoes,  etc.  (see  page  156),  and  designated  as  isobutyl  carbinol.  Tertiary  amylic  alco- 
hol was  first  prepared  by  Wurtz. 

Preparation. — A mixture  of  100  measures  each  of  sulphuric  acid,  water,  and  com- 
mercial amylene  is  exposed  to  a low  temperature  with  frequent  agitation  ; the  amyl-sul- 
phuric acid  formed  is  separated  after  a lapse  of  thirty  minutes,  and  added  to  twice  its  vol- 
ume of  ice-cold  water,  filtered,  and  neutralized  with  milk  of  lime  or  solution  of  soda,  after 
which  it  is  distilled.  The  distillate  is  dehydrated  with  potassium  carbonate,  and  subjected 
to  fractional  distillation,  that  portion  being  collected  which  comes  over  between  100°  and 
102.5°  C.  (212°  and  216.5°  F.). 

Properties. — Amylene  hydrate  is  a limpid,  colorless,  volatile,  neutral  liquid  of  pecu- 
liar penetrating  odor  which  reminds  of  camphor  and  peppermint,  and  a burning  taste ; 
its  specific  gravity  is  0.815  to  0.820,  and  its  boiling-point  when  pure  at  102.5°  C.  (216.5° 
F.).  It  is  soluble  in  8 parts  of  water,  and  miscible  in  all  proportions  with  alcohol,  chloro- 
form, benzin,  glycerin,  and  fixed  oils. 

Tests. — Besides  solubility  in  8 parts  of  water,  the  Germ.  Ph.  requires  of  amylene 
hydrate  that  20  Cc.  of  a 5 per  cent,  aqueous  solution,  after  addition  of  2 drops  of  potas- 
sium permanganate  test-solution,  shall  not  become  decolorized  within  ten  minutes  (absence 
of  amylic  alcohol,  etc.)  ; also,  that,  if  ammonium  silver  nitrate  be  added  to  the  aqueous 
solution  and  the  mixture  heated  for  ten  minutes  in  a water-bath,  no  reduction  to  metallic 
silver  shall  take  place  (absence  of  aldehyde). 

Allied  Compounds. — Amylenum , Amylene,  Yalerene,  Pentene,  C5H10. — This  hydrocarbon 
was  obtained  by  Balard  (1844)  by  distilling  amylic  alcohol  with  a concentrated  solution  of  zinc 
chloride.  It  is  a thin  volatile,  inflammable  liquid  with  disagreeable  cabbage-like  odor,  and 
consists  of  varying  proportions  of  two  or  three  isomeric  compounds  boiling  between  32°  and  40° 
C.  (89.6°  and  104°  F.).  Amyl  hydride , C5H12,  which  is  contained  among  the  most  volatile  pro- 
ducts of  petroleum  and  in  the  light  tar-oil  of  cannel  coal,  resembles  amylene,  but  has  a more 
agreeable,  ethereal  odor,  resembling  chloroform,  and  boils  at  30°  C.  (86°  F.). 

Penial , tri-methyl  ethylene,  beta-isoamylene.  This  is  a somewhat  purer  form  of  amylene, 
and  like  it  is  prepared  from  amylic  alcohol  by  digestion  with  zinc  chloride  for  twenty-four 
hours  and  subsequent  fractional  distillation.  It  is  a colorless  liquid,  very  volatile  and  inflam- 
mable, insoluble  in  water,  and  with  a mustard-like  odor.  Its  specific  gravity  is  0.620,  and  its 
boiling  point  at  38°  C.  (100.4°  F.).  It  is  administered  like  chloroform,  and  requires  only  20  Cc. 
(about  5J  fluidrachms)  to  produce  in  two  or  three  minutes  an  anaesthesia  which,  though  not 
deep,  is  complete  enough  for  minor  operations.  It  has  been  found  perfectly  free  from  danger 
and  safer  than  ethyl  bromide. 

Action  and  Uses. — Amylene  hydrate  is  a relatively  safe  anaesthetic,  because  it 
does  not  depress  the  heart.  The  effects  of  an  overdose  of  this  compound  are  prolonged 
sleep,  muscular  relaxation,  loss  of  tactile  and  reflex  sensibility,  dilatation  of  the  pupils 
with  feeble  reaction  to  the  light,  shallow  and  irregular  respiration,  a slow  and  small  pulse, 
and  reduced  temperature.  It  has  been  employed  chiefly  for  promoting  sleep.  Y.  Mer- 
ing  and  others  used  it  in  doses  of  from  Gm.  3-5  (grs.  xlv-lxxv)  for  insomnia  arising 
from  many  different  causes,  but  chiefly  for  those  independent  of  pain  and  due  to  general 
nervousness,  (neurasthenia),  mental  strain,  old  age,  convalescence  from  acute  affections, 
anaemia,  phthisis,  dyspnoea  from  emphysema  and  cardiac  disease,  acute  bronchitis,  alcoholic 
excitement,  itching  from  jaundice,  rheumatism,  typhoid  fever,  etc.,  etc.  ( Centralbl . Therap ., 
vi.  205;  Bostoyi  Med.  and  Burg.  Jour.,  Feb.  1888,  p.  176;  Med.  News , lii.  549).  It  is 
of  little  use  in  spasmodic  affections.  Its  soporific  action  is  generally  manifested  within 
half  an  hour,  and  often  in  five  or  ten  minutes,  and  the  sleep  is  nearly  always  natural,  and 
not  like  stupor  from  a narcotic.  The  awakening  is  usually  prompt  and  complete.  In 
general,  the  pulse-rate,  rhythm,  and  force  are  unaffected.  It  occasions  neither  loss  of 
appetite  nor  nausea,  seldom  vomiting,  and  no  disorder  of  the  bowels,  nor  headache.  In 
exceptional  cases  it  has  seemed  to  excite  some  hysterical  phenomena.  Even  where  it  fails 
to  bring  on  sleep,  it  induces  a certain  calm  and  restful  condition,  which  renders  it  serviceable 
in  nervous  forms  of  insanity  (J\Ied.  News,  lii.  99).  It  appears  to  occupy  a position  between 


AMYLUM. 


201 


chloral  and  paraldehyde.  “ It  has,”  says  Laves  ( Centralhl.  f Therapy  vi.  531),  “neither 
the  unpleasant  and  persistent  taste  and  smell  of  the  latter  nor  the  same  uncertanity  of 
action.  It  seems  to  have  about  half  the  strength  of  chloral  ; and,  although  its  hypnotic 
action  is  perhaps  less  certain,  the  sleep  it  causes  is  more  refreshing  and  the  mind  remains 
clearer  after  its  use.”  It  acts  in  smaller  doses  than  paraldehyde.  Scharsclimidt  (; ibid ., 
v.  695),  indeed,  estimates  it  as  four  or  five  times  stronger.  It  is  said  by  Avelli  that  the 
habitual  use  of  opiates  does  not  lessen  its  operation  {ibid,  vi.  94). 

Amylene  hydrate  is  generally  prescribed  in  water  or  red  wine,  thickened  and  flavored 
with  extract  (or  syrup)  of  liquorice  or  some  fruit  syrup.  Before  each  dose  the  mixture 
should  be  shaken.  The  dose  is  from  Gm.  2-4  (gr.  xxx-lx) ; for  an  enema,  6m.  3-5  (grs. 
xlv-lxxv)  suspended  in  mucilage.  It  has  been  given  hypodermically  (amylene  hydrate 
8 parts,  alcohol  4 parts),  about  Gm.  0.06  (gr.  j)  under  the  skin  of  the  back.  The  injec- 
tion is  said  not  to  occasion  an  abscess.  If  the  stomach  is  diseased  (by  simple  or  cancer- 
ous ulcers),  the  medicine  should  be  administered  by  enema. 

Pental , from  it  first  introduction  (1892),  was,  on  the  one  hand,  said  to  be  exceedingly 
safe  and  prompt,  although  transient  in  its  action,  but  on  the  other  hand,  it  was  described 
as  being  tedious  and  depressing  in  its  operation,  and  several  deaths  were  charged  to  it. 
It  was  advocated  as  being  readily  inhaled,  gradual  in  its  action,  as  not  wholly  destroying 
consciousness,  and  as  leaving  no  unpleasant  effects  behind  it ; and  condemned  as  giving 
rise  to  albuminous  and  even  bloody  urine,  as  becoming  congealed  by  its  own  rapid  evap- 
oration, as  causing  a very  transient  anaesthesia,  and  a depression  of  the  heart’s  power 
“ more  dangerous  than  the  chloride  of  ethyl,  and  much  more  dangerous  than  chloro- 
form.” It  seems  less  adapted  to  inhalation  than  to  the  production  of  local  anaesthesia. 

Trimethycarbinol  and  dimethycarbinol  have  been  studied  by  Boris  Chapiroff.  They 
are  said  to  be  identical  in  action,  but  the  latter  is  the  more  powerful  of  the  two.  It  is 
stated  that  doses  of  2 to  15  drops  of  the  former,  repeated  several  times  a day,  less- 
ened greatly  nervous  excitability  without  first  increasing  it,  and  produced  a deep,  calm, 
and  dreamless  sleep.  It  is  recommended  in  all  cases  of  hyperexcitability  of  the  nervous 
system,  such  as  is  found  in  hysteria , delirium  tremens , etc.  Only  the  purest  preparation 
can  be  relied  upon  {Bull,  et  Mem.  Soc.  therap.,  1887,  p.  175). 

Amylene,  which  was  introduced  by  Snow  in  1856,  was  shown  by  him  to  produce 
unconsciousness  and  anaesthesia  in  animals  very  rapidly,  but  not  in  proportion  to  the 
amount  inhaled,  since  a very  large  part  of  it  was  expelled  without  having  been  absorbed. 
It  produced  death  suddenly  by  causing  arrest  of  the  heart.  In  the  surgical  operations 
in  which  it  was  used  anaesthesia  was  observed  to  be  complete  in  many  instances  before 
consciousness  was  lost,  while  under  ether  or  chloroform  unconsciousness  precedes  com- 
plete anaesthesia.  Its  action  occurs  more  promptly  than  even  that  of  either  of  the  sub- 
stances just  named,  but  its  effects  pass  off  with  like  rapidity.  It  does  not  cause  sickness 
of  the  stomach  as  readily  as  they  do.  But,  whatever  its  advantage  may  have  been,  the 
occurrence  of  several  cases  of  sudden  death  during  its  use  caused  it  to  be  laid  aside  {e.  g. 
St.  Georges  Hosp.  Rep.,  iii.  230). 

AMYLUM,  U.  S.,  Br. — Starch. 

Corn  Starch,  E. ; Fecule  ( Amidon ) de  maize,  Fr. ; Starke,  Kraftmehl,  Maisstdrke , G.  ; 
Almidon , Sp. ; Amido,  It. 

Composition  C6H,0O5.  Molecular  weight  161.62. 

The  fecula  of  the  seed  of  Zea  Mays,  Linne , s.  Z.  cryptosperma,  Bonafous.  Bentley  and 
Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  296 

Nat.  Ord. — Graminaceae. 

Origin. — Starch  is  found  in  most  vegetables  at  some  period  of  their  growth,  and 
exists  in  different  plants  in  very  different  proportions.  It  is  nearly  always  deposited  in 
the  cellular  tissue,  but  is  found  suspended  in  the  milk-juice  of  some  plants.  In  many 
plants  a considerable  amount  of  starch  is  deposited  in  the  root,  rhizome,  or  tuber,  or  in 
the  seed ; in  some  cases,  as  in  certain  palms,  it  is  largely  found  in  the  trunk  previous  to 
flowering.  The  mode  of  preparation  must  necessarily  vary  to  a certain  extent,  but  always 
consists  in  the  comminution  of  the  part  of  the  plant  by  grinding  or  rasping,  and  in  remov- 
ing the  coarse  particles  of  tissue  by  sieves,  and  by  subsidence  from  water,  in  which  the 
starch  remains  suspended  for  some  time.  (For  remarks  on  the  origin  and  composition  of 
wheat  see  Farina  Tritici.) 

Description. — From  whatever  source  obtained,  starch  appears  to  the  naked  eye  in 
the  form  of  a fine  white  powder,  the  particles  of  which  frequently  adhere  together  super- 


202 


AMYLUM. 


ficially,  so  as  to  form  irregular  columnar  masses.  Undei;  the  microscope  the  powder  is 
observed  to  consist  of  distinct  grains  of  a peculiar  shape  and  size,  which  vary  with  the 
plant  from  which  the  starch  has  been  obtained.  The  smallest  starch-granules  observable 
with  the  aid  of  a microscope  are  globular  in  appearance,  but  the  form  of  the  larger  gran- 
ules, such  as  potato  starch,  arrow-root,  etc.,  is  quite  characteristic,  so  that  the  origin  of 
starch  may  by  this  means  be  detected  with  tolerable  certainty. 

Schleiden  classified  the  starches  thus : 

1.  Without  distinct  shape  (non-mealy  sarsaparilla,  Carex  arenaria). 

2.  Mostly  single  grains : a , roundish,  and  without  or  oftener  with  a small  nucleus ; 
layers  indistinct  (maize,  rice)  ; layers  distinct  and  grains  ovate  (potato,  arrow-root),  con- 
choidal  (lily)  or  subconical  (bletia)  ; nucleus  elongated  (pea,  bean)  or  cup-shaped  (orris)  ; 
b , lenticular,  layers  more  or  less  distinct  (wheat,  rye,  barley)  ; c , very  flat,  layers  distinct 
(Zingiberaceae)  ; stick-like,  and  layers  distinct  or  nucleus  elongated,  or  shape  irregular 
(euphorbia). 

3.  Compound  grains : a,  without  nucleus  (bryony,  sarsaparilla)  ; 6,  with  nucleus,  and 
this  small  (manihot),  large  and  radiate  (colchicum),  or  cup-shaped  (anatherum),  forming 
irregular  groups  (arum),  or  several  small  grains  united  with  a large  one  (sago). 

The  granules  are  evidently  made  up  of  layers,  apparently  differing  somewhat  in  den- 
sity, and  more  or  less  concentrically  arranged  around  a nucleus  or  hilum,  which  in  many 
cases  is  not  in  the  centre,  but  near  the  margin  or  one  end  of  the  granule.  With  respect 
to  the  relative  age  of  the  different  layers,  the  fact  that  the  innermost  ones  are  softer  or 
less  dense  is  regarded  by  Schleiden,  Payen,  Nageli,  and  others  as  conclusive  evidence 
that  the  outer  ones  were  first  deposited,  and  that  those  near  and  around  the  hilum  origi- 
nated later ; while  Fritzsche,  Berg,  and  others,  on  the  contrary,  find  that  this  condition  is 
a proof  of  the  external  growth  of  the  granules  by  deposits  of  fresh  and  denser  layers 
around  the  more  or  less  gelatinous  nucleus.  All  these  layers  are  considered  by  many 
investigators  to  be  of  the  same  composition,  and  to  differ  from  each  other  mainly  in  the 
amount  of  moisture  retained  by  them.  Opinions,  however,  in  relation  to  the  existence 
of  an  enveloping  membrane  differing  in  composition  are  considerably  at  variance  with  one 
another.  Those  investigators  who  explain  the  formation  of  the  starch-granules  by  exter- 
nal additions  reject  its  existence,  and,  according  to  Schleiden,  the  denser  outer  layer  of 
the  granule  which  is  first  deposited  is  uniform  and  of  precisely  the  same  chemical  behavior 
as  the  remainder.  Payen,  Persoz,  and  Nageli,  on  the  other  hand,  find  that  the  starch 
proper  has  been  deposited  within  a very  thin  membrane  which  has  some  of  the  character- 
istics of  cellulose.  If  starch  is  acted  upon  by  being  digested  with  saliva,  pepsin,  or  bile, 
it  is  dissolved,  according  to  Nageli,  with  the  exception  of  a minute  residue  which  does 
not  swell  on  being  boiled  with  water  and  requires  to  be  treated  with  sulphuric  acid  before 
it  is  colored  blue  by  iodine,  but  dissolves  in  ammoniacal  solution  of  cupric  oxide.  For 
this  outer  membrane  the  name  amylin  has  been  proposed,  while  the  portion  soluble  in  hot 
water  has  been  named  granulose  and  amidin.  The  chlorides  of  zinc  and  calcium  dissolve 
starch  completely  without  leaving  any  residue. 

Wheat  starch , when  viewed  under  the  microscope,  is  found  to  consist  of  nearly  circular 
and  flat  or  lenticular  granules,  the  largest  of  which  are  about  yoVo  *n  diameter,  and 
are  mixed  with  many  minute  granules,  but  with  a few  of  an  intermediate  size.  The 
hilum,  if  observable,  is  near  the  centre  of  the  circle,  the  indistinct  layers  forming  nearly 
uniformly  concentric  rings. 

Rye  starch , from  Secale  cereale  Linne  (Seigle  (fruit),  F.  Cod. ; Roggen,  G. ; Centeno, 
Sp. ; Segala,  It .),  consists  of  small  and  large  granules,  the  latter  varying  between 
oblong-ovate  and  lenticular  in  shape.  The  layers  are  concentric  and  rather  indistinct ; 
the  hilum  is  near  the  centre,  and  mostly  with  three  to  five  or  six  rays. 

Preparation. — Wheat  or  other  grain  is  soaked  in  warm  water,  to  which  sometimes 
an  alkali  is  added,  until  the  outer  coating  has  become  soft;  it  is  then  ground  under  water, 
and  washed  upon  suitable  sieves  with  pure  water,  with  which  the  starch  passes  through 
and  is  collected  by  subsidence  in  suitable  tanks,  the  alkaline  water  retaining  the  gluten ; 
or  the  latter  is  removed  by  allowing  it  to  undergo  decomposition,  when  acetic,  butyric,  or 
lactic  and  other  acids  are  produced.  The  gluten  need  not  be  destroyed,  but  may  be 
obtained  as  a by-product ; for  this  purpose  wheat  flour  is  made  with  water  into  a stiff 
dough ; this  is  set  aside  for  2 hours,  and  then  placed  upon  a fine  wire  sieve,  where  it  is 
kneaded  under  a thin  stream  of  water  until  the  latter  no  longer  becomes  milky  ; nearly 
the  whole  of  the  gluten  will  remain  upon  the  sieve.  After  sufficient  washing  with  pure 
water  the  starch  is  drained  in  boxes,  cut  into  cubical  blocks,  and  dried  in  properly  con- 
structed drying-chambers. 


AMYLUM. 


203 


Properties. — Starch  forms  a white,  inodorous,  and  tasteless  powder,  with  a peculiar 
slippery  feel  between  the  fingers.  Exposed  to  the  atmosphere,  it  contains  from  10  to  13 
per  cent,  of  moisture,  which  is  given  off1  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.),  and  is  reabsorbed  on  exposure. 
The  spec.  grav.  of  starch  is  about  1.5,  but  after  complete  drying  is  increased  to  1.56.  It 
is  insoluble  in  ether,  alcohol,  and  cold  water  ; the  last-mentioned  liquid,  however,  when 
triturated  with  starch,  so  that  some  of  the  granules  are  ruptured,  evidently  dissolves  a 
little,  since  it  acquires,  after  filtration,  a blue  color  on  the  addition  of  iodine.  Soluble 
starch  is  obtained,  according  to  Maschke,  by  the  prolonged  heating  of  starch  to  100°  C. 
(212°  F.).  When  heated  to  between  160°  and  200°  C.  (320°  and  392°  F.)  it 
is  gradually  converted  into  dextrin  (see  below).  Starch  becomes  soluble  in  cold 
water  in  the  presence  of  the  chlorides  of  zinc  and  of  calcium  and  of  other  deli- 
quescent or  freely  soluble  salts.  Its  solution  in  hot  water  gelatinizes  on  cooling,  the 
jelly  of  wheat  starch  being  milk-white — that  of  potato  starch,  particularly  when  made  with 
much  water,  being  more  translucent.  On  heating  starch  with  glycerin  a solution  is 
obtained  which,  according  to  Zulkowski  (1875,  1880),  contains  soluble  starch,  obtainable 
by  diluting  with  water  and  precipitating  the  clear  filtrate  with  alcohol.  Potato  starch  is 
easily  converted  into  the  soluble  form,  but  wheat  starch  requires  a prolonged  heating,  and 
rice  starch  is  thus  changed  with  still  greater  difficulty. 


Fig.  14. 


Fig.  15. 


Fig.  16. 


Corn  Starch. 

Each  magnified  250  diameters. 


Mucilage  of  starch,  when  heated  to  about  160°  C.  (320°  F.),  or  when  boiled  with  very 
dilute  sulphuric  acid,  or  when  digested  with  diastase  at  about  70°  C.  (158°  F.),  is  con- 
verted, according  to  Musculus  (1860),  first  into  maltose , C12H22On,  which  is  probably  a 
compound  of  dextrin , C6H10O5,  and  dextrose , C6H1206,  the  former  passing  finally  likewise 
into  glucose.  Iodine  imparts  to  starch  in  the  presence  of  water,  and  to  starch-mucilage, 
a blue  color  which  disappears  on  the  application  of  heat,  but  reappears  on  cooling.  Bro- 
mine colors  the  starch  brown-yellow.  Fuming  nitric  acid  transforms  starch  into  xyloidin , 
C6H9(N02)05,  which  is  a white,  tasteless  powder,  insoluble  in  alcohol,  but  softening  in 
boiling  water.  A filtered  solution  of  starch  in  water  yields  wTith  tannin  a flocculent  pre- 
cipitate which  is  soluble  in  boiling  water.  When  incinerated,  starch  should  leave  not  over 
1 per  cent,  of  ash. 

Preservation. — All  starches  and  farinaceous  substances  should  be  kept  in  a dry 
place.  When  confined  in  a damp  atmosphere  they  acquire  a musty  odor,  which  may  be 
removed  by  repeated  washing  with  pure  water  and  rapid  drying. 


Other  Starches. — 1.  Amylum  Maydis. — Corn  starch,  E. ; FScule  de  ma'is,  Fr. ; Maisstarke,  G. 
From  the  seed  of  Zea  Mays,  Linn6.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Pl.,  296.  Nat.  Ord.  Graminacese. — 
The  plant  known  as  maize  and  Indian  corn  was  found  in  extensive  cultivation  at  the  time  of  the 
discovery  of  America,  and  was  from  here  introduced  into  Europe ; it  is  said  to  have  been  intro- 
duced into  China  from  Central  Asia.  The  starch-granules  are  more  uniform  in  size,  but  only 
about  two-thirds  as  large  as  those  of  wheat  starch  ; they  are  irregularly  angular,  rounded  on  the 
edges,  and  occasionally  obrong  muller-shaped,  with  a usually  slit  hilum  and  indistinct  layers. 

2.  Amylum  Oryz,e. — Rice  starch,  Rice  flour,  E. ; Farine  de  riz,  Fr. ; Reisstarke,  G.  From 
the  seed  of  Oryza  sativa,  Linn6.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  PL,  291.  Nat.  Ord.  Graminacese. — 
The  rice-plant  is  a native  of  India,  has  been  cultivated  from  a very  early  period,  and  has  been 
introduced  into  the  most  tropical  and  subtropical  countries.  Rice  (Riz,  F.  Cod. ; Aroz,  Sp.) 
of  commerce  consists  of  the  seeds  deprived  of  the  persistent  palese  and  of  the  integuments  ; it  is 
oblong  or  subcylindrical  in  shape,  about  3 Mm.  (£  inch)  or  more  in  length,  translucent,  and  fur- 
rowed on  one  side.  Rice  starch  consists  of  polygonal  granules  less  than  one-fifth  the  diameter 
of  wheat  starch,  and  smaller  than  all  other  commercial  starches,  but  mostly  united  to  larger 
grains. 

3.  Amylum  Solani. — Potato  starch,  E. ; Fecule  de  pomme  de  terre,  F.  Cod.;  Kartoffelstarke, 
G. ; Fecula  de  patata,  Sp. — From  the  tubers  of  Solanum  tuberosum,  Linn6.  Nat.  Ord.  Solanaceae. 


204 


AMYLUM. 


Potato  Starch. 


Fig.  17.  The  potato  plant  grows  wild  in  the  mountainous  districts 

of  Peru  and  Chili,  and  several  tuber-hearing  species  of 
Solanum  are  indigenous  to  the  mountains  of  New  Mexico 
and  Arizona.  The  potato  was  brought  to  England  from 
Virginia  in  1586,  and  is  at  present  extensively  cultivated  in 
many  varieties  in  most  countries  of  the  temperate  zones  ; its 
starch  is  largely  manufactured  and  used  in  Europe,  and  is 
sometimes  substituted  for  arrow-root  or  used  for  adulterating 
it.  The  granules  are  of  two  sizes,  a portion  being  small  and 
subspherical,  another  portion  larger  than  maranta  starch,  of 
an  ovate  or  irregular  oval  shape,  marked  with  rather  coarse 
concentric  lines,  and  with  an  inconspicuous  hilum  at  the 
narrow  end. 

4.  Amylum  Maranta. — Arrow-root,  E.,  F.  Cod..  G .,  Sp.; 
Salep  des  lndes  occidentales,  Fr. ; Marantastarke,  G.  ; 
Arroru,  Sp.  From  the  rhizome  of  Maranta  arundinacea, 
IAnne.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  PI. , 265.  Nat.  Ord.  Marantaceae. — The  plant  is  indigenous 
to  the  West  Indies  and  tropical  America,  and  is  largely  cultivated  in  the  Bermudas,  in  Georgia, 
Jamaica,  St.  Vincent,  and  in  Brazil.  It  is  a perennial  herb,  with  a 
branching,  fleshy,  cylindrical  rhizome  covered  with  whitish  scales  or 
annulate  with  their  scars.  The  slender  branching  stem  is  5 to  6 feet 
high,  has  thickened  nodes,  ovate  lanceolate  leaves  with  long  sheaths, 
and  small  whitish  flowers,  usually  in  pairs  at  the  ends  of  the  branches. 
M.  indica,  Tussac,  is  now  regarded  by  botanists  as  being  a smooth 
and  narrower-leaved  variety  of  the  preceding  •,  it  is  found  in  Bengal, 
Java,  and  the  Philippines,  and  has  been  introduced  into  tropical 
Africa ; the  Natal  and  East-India  arrow-root  is  obtained  from  it,  but 
the  latter  sometimes  consists  of  the  starch  of  Curcuma  leucorrhiza  and 
C.  angustifolia,  Roxburgh , which  is  in  flattened  elliptic  or  elongated  ovate 
granules  marked  with  numerous  fine  lines  and  at  the  narrow  end  with  a 
hilum.  When  about  a year  old  the  rhizomes  of  maranta  are  dug  up,  care- 
fully cleaned  from  the  scales,  well  mashed,  and  either  ground  in  a mill  or 
rasped  until  reduced  to  a pulp,  which  is  suspended  in  water,  the  fibrous 
portion  being  either  separated  by  hand  or  by  sieves.  The  starch 
which  settles  from  the  water  is  repeatedly  stirred  with  fresh  portions 
of  clean  water,  finally  allowed  to  setttle,  and  dried  with  a gentle  heat.  The  rhizomes  yield  from 
13  to  20  per  cent,  of  fecula.  (See  papers  by  Robert  Battey  in  Proceedings  of  the  Amer.  Pharm. 


Fig.  18. 


Maranta  Starch. 


Fig.  19. 


Curcuma  Starch. 


Assoc.,  1858,  p.  332,  and  by  W.  Eberhard  in  Archiv  d.  Pharm.,  1868,  vol. 
clxxxiv.  p.  257.)  The  importation  of  arrow-root  into  the  United  States 
amounted  to  over  1,500,000  pounds  in  1876,  and  decreased  to  69,206 
pounds  in  1881  and  77,192  pounds  in  1882. 

Arrow-root  is  pulverulent  or  in  small  irregular  lumps,  less  than  \ inch 
thick,  white,  opaque,  tasteless,  and  inodorous.  Under  the  microscope  it 
is  seen  to  consist  of  ovate  or  somewhat  oval  granules,  the  layers  of  which 
are  marked  by  fine  but  distinct  lines,  and  have  usually  upon  the  broader 
end  a small  nucleus  or  a transverse  fissure ; the  granules  are  nearly 
uniform  in  size. 

Tests. — According  to  the  German  Pharmacopoeia  of  1872,  1 part  of 
arrow-root  gives  with  96  parts  of  boiling  water  a moderately  thin,  pellucid 
mucilage ; and  when  it  is  agitated  for  10  minutes  with  a mixture  of  2 
parts  of  hydrochloric  acid  and  1 part  of  water,  nearly  the  whole  of  the 
starch  should  separate  unchanged  and  without  the  formation  of  a mucilage 
or  the  production  of  an  herbaceous  odor.  Schaer  (1875)  showed  that 
some  samples  of  maranta  starch  yield  in  a short  time  a turbid  jelly  which  gradually 
becomes  limpid,  while  in  most  cases  it  separates  unchanged,  but  is  partly  dissolved  within 

twenty-four  hours.  This  difference  is  probably  due  to 
climatic  influences.  The  starches  of  manihot  and  curcuma 
have  a similar  behavior*,  wheat  starch  yields  no  jelly,  but 
after  several  hours  a strongly  opalescent  solution.  Potato 
starch,  however,  is  readily  transformed  into  a thick,  almost 
clear  jelly,  forming  a complete  solution  in  a few  hours,  and 
having  a strong  herbaceous  or  bean-like  odor. 

5.  Amylum  Cannes,  Canna,  TJ.  S.  1870. — Canna  starch, 
Tous-les-mois,  Toulema,  E. ; Amidon  de  canne,  Fecule  de 
Tolomane,  Fr.;  Cannastarke,  G.  From  the  rhizome  of 
(probably)  Canna  edulis,  Ker.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med. 
PL,  266.  Nat.  Ord.  Marantaceae,  Canneae— This  showy 
plant  is  indigenous  to  Peru  and  Brazil,  and  is  cultivated  in 
St.  Kitts  and  other  West  Indian  Islands.  Canna  starch  is 
a white  powder  having  a satiny  lustre  ; its  granules  are  the 
largest  among  the  commercial  starches,  flattish,  usually 


Fig.  20. 


Canna  Starch. 


AMYLXJM. 


205 


Fig.  21. 


Cassava  Starch. 


Altered  Starch -granules 
from  Tapioca. 


oblong  or  ovate,  but  variable  in  outline,  with  the  inconspicuous  nucleus  or  hilum  mostly  near 
the  narrowed  end,  and  with  numerous  concentric  rings.  Canna  starch  contains  about  one-sixth 
of  its  weight  of  hygroscopic  water,  and  yields  with  20  parts  of  boiling  water  a jelly  which  is 
considerably  more  tenacious,  but  less  clear  and  transparent,  than  that  of  arrow-root. 

6.  Amylum  Manihot. — Brazilian  arrow-root,  Tapioca  meal,  E. ; Cassava,  E .,  Fr.,  G.  From 
the  root  of  Manihot  utilissima,  Pohl,  s.  Janipha  (Jatropha,  LinnS)  Manihot,  Kunth.  Bentley 
and  Trimen,  Med.  FI. , 235.  Nat.  Ord.  Euphorbiaceae. — The  plant  also  known  as  mandiuc 
and  manioc , is  probably  indigenous  to  Brazil,  where  it  has  been  culti- 
vated from  a remote  period.  It  has  been  introduced  into  other  parts 
of  tropical  America,  into  Florida,  Africa,  and  the  East  Indies.  Its 
fleshy,  tuberous  roots  attain  a length  of  1 M.  (40  inches)  and  contain  a 
milky  juice  which  is  poisonous  from  the  presence  of  hydrocyanic  acid. 

E.  Francis  (1882)  found  cassava-root  to  yield  on  an  average  .0275  per 
cent.,  and  the  sweet  cassava  .0168  per  cent.,  HCy.  The  sweet  cassava 
is  Manihot  palmata,  J.  Mueller , s.  M.  Aipi,  Pohl , s.  Jatropha  dulcis, 

Gmelin.  This  and  another  species,  Manihot  carthaginensis,  J.  Mueller , 
s.  Jatropha  Janipha,  Linn£,  are  used  like  the  preceding.  On  grating 
the  roots,  expressing  the  poisonous  juice,  drying  the  residue  and  grind- 
ing it,  cassava  meal  is  obtained,  which,  when  baked  in  thin  cakes,  furnishes  cassava  bread. 
From  the  expressed  juice,  and  by  washing  the  meal  with  water,  on  standing  the  starch  is  deposited. 
On  drying  this  starch  while  still  moist  on  heated  plates  tapioca  is 
obtained. 

Cassava  starch  forms  a white  powder,  which  under  the  microscope 
is  seen  to  consist  of  muller-shaped  granules ; these,  viewed  from 
one  end,  have  the  appearance  of  spherical  grains.  The  nucleus  is 
small,  circular,  or  often  elongated,  sometimes  radiate,  and  the  differ- 
ent layers  are  indistinctly  marked.  The  grains  were  originally  united 
in  groups  of  two  to  four,  but  in  the  commercial  articles  are  mostly 
separate.  Their  size  is  usually  less  than  half  that  of  potato  starch. 

Tapioca,  Tapioka,  F.  Cod.;  is  in  irregular  opaque  or  somewhat  translu- 
cent pieces,  which  consist  of  the  same  starch  granules  partly  distended, 
ruptured,  and  agglutinated.  It  is  inodorous,  has  an  insipid  taste,  and 
agrees  in  chemical  behavior  and  composition  with  other  starches. 

7.  Sago,  U.  S.  1870. — Sago,  E .,  G. ; Sagou,  F.  Cod. ; Sagti,  Bp. 

From  the  pith  of  Metroxylon  Sagu,  Rottboell  (s.  M.  Sago,  Koenig , M.  laeve,  Martins , Sagus 
laevis,  Blume ),  Metr.  Rumphii,  Martins , (s.  Sagus  Rumphii,  Wildenow , S.  genuina,  Blume ), 
Sagus  farinifera,  Lamarck , Arenga  saccharifera,  Labillardiere  (s.  Saguerus  Rumphii,  Roxburgh ), 
and  of  other  palms.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  PL,  278.  Nat.  Ord.  Palmse. — The  sago-palms 
inhabit  the  East  Indian  and  Polynesian  islands,  and  are  extensively  cultivated.  They  are  mostly 
trees  of  medium  height,  but  with  a thick  stem,  containing  a large  amount  of  parenchyma-tissue, 
the  cells  of  which  are  filled  with  starch.  When  of  sufficient  size 
the  tree  is  cut  down,  split  lengthwise,  and  the  pith  removed,  pow- 
dered, and  washed  with  water  to  remove  woody  tissue  and  other 
impurities.  The  dry  starch  is  known  as  sago  meal.  This  is 
granulated  by  passing  the  sufficiently  damp  meal  through  a sieve, 
the  globular  pieces  dropping  into  a shallow  pot  suspended  over  a 
fire,  where  they  are  dried  with  constant  stirring.  While  flower- 
ing the  Arenga  furnishes  a juice  rich  in  sugar. 

Sago  is  occasionally  seen  in  the  form  of  whitish  glistening 
powder  or  irregular  grains,  varying  somewhat  in  tint,  and  being 
distinguished  as  white  and  brown  sago.  More  frequently  it  is 
seen  as  pearl  sago , in  the  form  of  globular  grains,  pearl-like  in 
appearance,  with  a smooth  surface,  and  occasionally  two  or  three 
grains  adhering  together.  From  the  heat  employed  in  its  prepara- 
tion it  is  somewhat  diaphanous,  and  when  examined  under  the  microscope  some  of  the  starch- 
granules  are  seen  to  be  distended  and  partly  ruptured.  Sago  starch  consists  of  irregularly  ovate, 
oval,  or  elliptical  grains,  often  with  a roughish  surface ; the  hilum  is  located  near  one  end,  and 
is  naturally  small  and  circular,  but  in  sago  is  often  slit  in  one  or  more  directions  from  the  effect 
of  heat.  The  end  opposite  the  hilum  is  always  more  or  less  truncate  or  flat  and  muller-shaped. 
Factitious  sago , which  is  made  in  Europe  of  potato  starch,  is  best  recognized  by  means  of  the 
microscope. 

The  granules  of  Tahiti  arrow-root , which  is  obtained  from  Tacca  pinnatifida  and  oceanica, 
Forster,  and  which  is  now  rarely  seen  in  commerce,  are  of  about  the  same  size  as  those  of  cassava 
starch,  but  are  flattened  and  angular. 

Derivative  of  Starch. — Dextrinum,  Dextrin , C6II10O5. — Heat  in  a steam-bath,  with  frequent 
stirring,  a mixture  of  150  parts  of  starch,  750  parts  of  distilled  water,  and  4 parts  of  oxalic  acid, 
until  starch  can  no  longer  be  detected  by  solution  of  iodine ; then  neutralize  the  acid  with  pure 
calcium  carbonate,  and  after  two  days  filter,  evaporate,  and  dry  at  a gentle  heat. — P.  G.,  1872. 
On  a large  scale  dextrin  is  prepared  by  heating  starch  in  a cylinder  or  flat  vessel  to  a tempera- 
ture between  225°  and  260°  C.  (437°  and  500°  F.) : the  yellowish  product  thus  obtained  is  known 
in  commerce  as  British  gum.  White  dextrin,  resembling  starch  in  appearance,  is  manufactured 


Fig.  23. 


Sago  Starch. 


206 


AMYLUM. 


by  Heuze’s  process:  1000  parts  of  starch  are  mixed  with  diluted  nitric  acid,  made  from  2 parts 
of  nitric  acid  sp.  gr.  1.4  and  150  parts  of  water;  the  mixture  is  formed  into  cakes;  these  are 
.dried  in  the  air,  then  slowly  heated  to  about  80°  C.  (176°  F.)  until  the  acid  has  been  expelled, 
and  powdered;  on  exposing  the  powder  for  from  sixty  to  ninety  minutes  to  a temperature 
between  100°  and  1 10°  C.  (212°  and  230°  F.)  the  conversion  into  dextrin  will  be  completed.  It 
may  be  purified  and  freed  from  sugar,  according  to  Hager  (1870),  by  dissolving  10  parts  of  it  in 
18  parts  of  distilled  water  by  agitation,  straining  if  necessary,  and  mixing  the  solution  with 
about  2 volumes  of  alcohol ; the  doughy  precipitate  is  redissolved  in  a little  distilled  water  and 
the  solution  dried  upon  glass.  Dextrin  is  granular  or  a whitish  or  pale-yellowish  amorphous 
gummy  mass,  readily  soluble  in  water,  but  insoluble  in  alcohol  and  ether  ; its  solution  is  dex- 
trogyre  and  does  not  reduce  an  alkaline  solution  of  copper. 

Amylum  Iodatum,  Iodized  starch,  E. ; Iodure  d’amidon,  Fr. ; Iodstarke,  G. — The  U.  S.  Ph., 
1880,  directed  this  preparation  to  be  made  by  triturating  5 parts  of  iodine  with  a little  distilled 
water,  adding  95  parts  of  starch  gradually,  and  continuing  the  trituration  until  the  compound 
assumes  a uniform  blue  color,  approaching  black.  It  must  be  dried  at  a temperature  not 
exceeding  40°  C.  (104°  F.),  rubbed  to  a fine  powder,  and  preserved  in  glass-stoppered  vials. 

That  starch  produces  a blue  or  violet-blue  color  with  iodine  was  observed  by  Colin  and 
Gaultier  de  Claubry  in  1814,  and  that  the  color  of  starches  of  different  origin  and  age  may  vary 
to  some  extent  was  subsequently  shown  by  N'ageli  and  others.  Liebig  regarded  iodized  starch 
as  a mere  mixture  of  starch  with  finely-divided  iodine,  and  this  view  is  now  generally  adopted. 
Payen  and  Fritzsche,  however,  believed  it  to  be  a definite  compound,  (C6H10O5)10I,  and  Bondonneau 
gives  it  the  formula  (C6H10O5)5I,  equal  to  13  per  cent,  of  iodine,  the  latter  being  dissolved  by 
alcohol,  but  not  by  potassium  iodide,  benzin,  carbon  sulphide,  or  other  solvents.  According  to 
the  process  adopted  the  amount  of  iodine  varies,  and,  though  generally  about  7.5  percent.,  may 
be  as  low  as  3.2  per  cent.  (Sonstadt),  or,  as  obtained  by  Lassaigne,  as  high  as  41.75  per  cent. 
Fritzsche  obtained  his  supposed  definite  compound  by  adding  tincture  of  iodine  to  a filtered 
solution  of  starch  in  concentrated  hydrochloric  acid.  Bondonneau  (1878)  dissolved  the  starch 
first  in  caustic  soda,  and  precipitated  the  slightly  acidulated  solution  with  tincture  of  iodine. 
According  to  Quesneville  (1868),  it  may  be  obtained  both  in  a soluble  and  an  insoluble  state  as 
follows : 1050  parts  of  starch  and  100  parts  of  iodine,  both  in  fine  powder,  are  well  mixed,  and 
then  triturated  with  a mixture  of  400  parts  of  water  and  100  of  alcohol,  the  liquid  to  be  added 
gradually ; the  whole  is  left  in  contact  for  fifteen  or  twenty  days,  and  afterward  carefully  dried. 
Thus  prepared,  it  is  a dark  blackish-blue  powder,  has  no  odor  of  iodine,  and  contains  10  per 
cent,  of  this  element.  To  obtain  it  soluble  it  is  heated  in  a porcelain  or  enamelled  dish  over  a 
slow  fire  and  with  continued  agitation  until  a pungent  odor  commences  to  be  given  off.  It  may 
be  still  further  purified  by  making  a concentrated  solution  in  warm  water,  precipitating  the  clear 
liquid  by  alcohol,  drying,  and  powdering  the  precipitate. 

Properties. — Iodized  starch  is  a dark-blue  powder  having  the  odor  of  iodine  in  a mild  degree. 
Exposed  to  the  sunlight,  it  is  decolorized  ; when  heated  with  water  to  65°  C.  (149°  F.)  it  becomes 
colorless,  and  blue  again  on  cooling ; but  when  heated  to  boiling,  iodine  is  given  off,  and  may 
be  completely  expelled  by  continuing  the  heat  for  a sufficient  length  of  time. 

The  production  of  iodized  starch  is  one  of  the  most  delicate  tests  for  the  recognition  of  starch 
as  well  as  of  iodine,  the  limits  of  the  reaction  being  influenced  by  the  temperature.  Fresenius 
(1857)  ascertained  that  1 part  of  iodine  may  thus  be  detected  at  0°  C.  (32°  F.)  in  660,000  parts  of 
water,  at  13°  C.  (55.4°  F.)  in  330,000  parts,  at  20°  C.  (68°  F.)  in  264,000  parts,  and  at  30°  C. 
(86°  F.)  in  132,000  parts  of  water.  For  detecting  minute  quantities  of  starch  or  iodine  the  test 
should  obviously  be  applied  at  as  low  a temperature  as  possible. 

Action  and  Uses. — Starch  is  applied  in  dilute  decoction  as  a demulcent  to  protect 
irritated  surfaces  upon  the  skin  and  in  the  digestive  canal.  As  a powder  it  is  extensively 
employed  to  shield  the  skin  from  the  action  of  the  air,  to  diminish  the  friction  of  contig- 
uous surfaces,  and  to  promote  the  healing  of  excoriations.  Thus  it  may  be  used  to  allay 
the  itching  and  burning  of  the  skin  in  erythema , uticaria , erysipelas , and  small-pox.  In 
the  form  of  a thick  mucilage  it  has  been  employed  to  prevent  pitting  in  the  last-named 
disease.  Bandages  saturated  with  starch  mucilage  made  with  hot  water  are  used  in 
dressing  fractures  and  other  injuries  and  diseases  of  the  bones  in  which  absolute  rest  of 
the  injured  part  is  required;  or  the  mucilage  is  smeared  on  the  outer  surface  of  the 
bandage  as  it  is  applied  to  the  affected  part.  This  dressing  dries  slowly,  and  should  be 
kept  at  perfect  rest  for  nearly  twenty-four  hours.  Starch-mucilage  is  constantly  employed 
as  a lenitive  injection  in  inflammation  of  the  rectum  and  the  bladder  and  as  a vehicle  for 
applying  narcotic  and  other  substances  to  those  parts.  Mixed  with  water,  starch  is  the 
best  antidote  to  the  caustic  action  of  iodine  upon  the  stomach,  as  it  forms  with  this 
substance  a bland  compound.  It  also  forms  the  surest  test  of  the  presence  of  iodine 
in  the  urine  and  other  secretions  by  striking  with  it  a characteristic  blue  color.  Starchy 
food  is  to  be  avoided  in  fermentative  dyspepsia , in  consequence  of  its  liability  to  undergo 
fermentation. 

The  fecula  of  canna,  has  the  nutritious  and  demulcent  qualities  of  starch  in  general.  As 
the  purest  natural  form  of  starch,  arrow-root  is  nutritious  and  demulcent,  and  does  not, 
like  potato  starch,  irritate  the  bowels.  Hence  it  is  extensively  used  in  febrile  affections , 


ANACARDIUM. 


207 


especially  in  those  involving  the  stomach  and  bowels,  and  is  also  a favorite  food  for 
infants  at  weaning-time.  It  is  prepared  by  mixing  a tablespoonful  of  arrow-root  with 
sufficient  cold  water  to  reduce  it  to  a paste,  and  then  gradually  adding  a pint  of  boiling 
water  or  milk,  or  a due  proportion  of  each,  stirring  the  mixture  the  while.  It  may  then 
be  sweetened.  Cream  is  sometimes  mixed  with  the  watery  mucilage  when  the  stomach 
or  bowels  are  irritable.  In  exhausting  diseases  a little  wine  may  be  added,  with  cin- 
namon or  nutmeg.  Sago  is  demulcent  and  nutritious,  and  forms  an  excellent  food  for 
the  sick  when  the  digestive  organs  are  feeble  or  fever  contraindicates  the  use  of  a stimu- 
lant diet.  It  is  more  generally  acceptable  to  the  palate  than  arrow-root  or  tapioca,  and 
is  more  digestible  than  rice.  The  demulcent  and  nutritive  properties  of  tapioca , as  well 
as  the  poisonous  properties  of  the  juices  of  the  plant  that  yields  it,  were  known  in  the 
seventeenth  century.  The  qualities  of  the  juice  are  due  to  the  prussic  acid  it  contains. 
The  symptoms  it  produces  are  identical  with  those  of  prussic  acid,  as  spasmodic  constric- 
tion of  the  throat,  convulsions,  coma,  and  death  with  dilated  pupils.  Tapioca  is  chiefly 
used  for  making  puddings  and  as  a simple  mucilaginous  food  for  the  sick  and  for  infants. 
A palatable  form  of  it  is  prepared  as  follows  : Take  a tablespoonful  of  tapioca  ; macerate 
it  in  a pint  of  warm  water  for  an  hour,  and  then  boil  it  for  ten  minutes,  stirring  all  the 
time.  Sugar,  lemon-juice,  or  some  fruit  syrup,  nutmeg,  wine,  etc.,  may  be  added  for 
flavoring  and  to  neutralize  the  pasty  and  mawkish  taste  of  the  starch. 

Amylum  Iodatum. — Iodized  starch  serves  as  a means  of  introducing  a large  amount 
of  iodine  into  the  system  without  irritating  the  stomach.  Buchanan,  who  proposed  it, 
gave  as  much  as  an  ounce  of  it  three  times  a day  without  any  unpleasant  symptoms.  In 
In  1879,  Bellini  recommended  it  as  an  antidote  for  poisons  generally,  stating  that  it 
formed  insoluble  compounds  with  many  of  them,  and  that  in  cases  of  poisoning  by  salts 
of  lead  or  mercury  it  aids  in  their  elimination  ( Boston  M.  and  S.  Jour.,  Aug.  1879,  p. 
267).  McCall  Anderson  used  it  with  advantage  in  lupus  erythematodes , giving  a heaped- 
up  teaspoonful  several  times  a day. 

ANACARDIUM. — Cashew-nut. 

Acajou  a pommes,  Fr. ; Caschunuss,  G. ; Anacardo,  Sp. 

The  fruit  of  Anacardium  occidentale,  Linne , s.  Cassuvium  pomiferum,  Lamarck. 

Nat.  Ord. — Terebinthaceae. 

Origin. — This  is  the  fruit  of  a small  tree  with  coriaceous,  shining,  oval,  entire,  and 
very  obtuse  leaves,  and  loose  racemes  of  small  whitish  or  purplish  flowers.  After  fructifi- 
cation the  pedicels  of  the  pistillate  flowers  become  large,  fleshy,  pear-shaped,  and  edible, 
having  an  acidulous  taste,  and  bear  upon  their  summits  the  nut-like  fruit.  The  plant  is 
indigenous  to  tropical  America,  and  has  been  naturalized  in  some  portions  of  Africa  and 
the  East  Indies. 

Description. — The  fruit  is  about  an  inch  (25  Mm.)  long,  somewhat  less  broad,  and 
about  one-third  of  an  inch  (8  Mm.)  thick.  It  is  kidney-shaped,  convex  on  the  back,  with 
a scar  on  one  of  the  rounded  ends,  of  a gray-brown  color,  and  inodorous.  The  shell  is 
hard  and  brittle,  and  contains  in  the  mesocarp  a very  acrid  oily  liquid  which  in  contact 
with  air  turns  black.  The  single  white  seed  has  the  shape  of  the  fruit  and  a mild  oily 
taste. 

Constituents. — The  cotyledons  contain  some  bland  fixed  oil.  Vieira  de  Mattos 
(1831)  found  in  the  pericarp  tannin,  gallic  acid,  soft  acrid  resin,  etc.  The  brown  oil  was 
found  by  A.  Basiner  (1881)  to  be  soluble  in  potassa,  with  a red  color,  darkening  on 
exposure,  and  its  alcoholic  solution  to  yield  a red  precipitate  with  basic  lead  acetate. 
Staedeler  (1847,  1848)  separated  the  vesicating  principle,  cardol , C2,H30O2,  as  a yellowish 
or  reddish  oil,  evolving,  when  heated,  a faint  aromatic  odor,  and  readily  soluble  in  alcohol 
and  ether.  It  is  obtained  from  the  ethereal  extract,  which  is  washed  with  water  to  remove 
tannin,  dissolved  in  alcohol,  and  digested,  and  afterward  boiled  with  hydrate  of  lead  to 
remove  anacardic  add  and  ammonia  salt.  The  remaining  color  is  removed  by  a little 
basic  lead  acetate.  Cardol  may  be  separated  from  mixtures  by  extraction  with  glacial 
acetic  acid  and  subsequent  agitation  of  the  latter  with  benzol  (Basiner).  Anacardic  acid, 
when  pure,  is  white  and  crystalline,  has  an  aromatic  afterward  burning  taste,  but  is  not 
vesicating.  Cazeneuve  and  Latour  (1875)  found  catechin  in  the  wood  of  the  cashew  tree. 

The  Oriental  cashew-nut , known  as  Anacardium  orientale,  is  the  fruit  of  Semecarpus 
Anacardium,  Linne  Jilius , s.  Anacardium,  latifolium,  Lamarck,  a tall  tree  of  India.  The  nut 
is  about  an  inch  (25  Mm.)  long,  nearly  heart-shaped,  flattish,  obtuse,  smooth,  glossy,  and 
black.  The  pericarp  and  cotyledons  have  the  same  properties  and  probably  the  same 


208 


AN  DIR  A. 


constituents  as  the  preceding ; but  Basiner  (1881)  ascertained  that  the  brown  oil  of  the 
mesocarp  dissolves  in  potassa  with  a green  color,  and  its  alcoholic  solution  turns  black 
with  basic  lead  acetate. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  kernel  of  anacardium  when  roasted,  and  even  when  raw,  is 
edible,  but  the  juice  furnished  by  the  rind  of  the  cashew-nut  is  acrid  and  almost  caustic, 
and  has  been  used  for  destroying  corns,  warts,  and  vegetations  and  as  an  epispastic.  But 
the  latter  application  of  it  is  very  objectionable,  not  only  because  it  is  slow  in  its  opera- 
tion, but  because  the  juice  is  apt  to  be  carried  by  the  patient’s  fingers  to  the  genitals  and 
other  parts  and  give  rise  to  a very  painful  and  persistent  eczematous  eruption.  The 
liquid  contained  in  the  blisters  has  a similar  property.  A like  effect  is  produced  by  the 
fumes  arising  from  the  nuts  while  roasting.  The  remedies  for  it  are  such  as  are  employed 
in  poisoning  by  toxicodendron.  A weak  solution  of  tincture  of  iodine  may  also  be  ap- 
plied with  advantage.  A case  in  which  this  topical  remedy  was  successfully  employed  was 
caused  by  using  heat  to  reduce  a liquid  extract  of  the  drug  to  a solid  consistence  (Am. 
Jour.  Phar.,  June,  1881,  p.  281).  It  is  stated  (Buchheim)  that  the  oil  has  a very  faint 
and  hardly  acrid  taste,  and  that  3 or  4 drops  of  it  may  be  swallowed  without  marked 
effects.  This  contrast  with  its  action  upon  the  skin  is  attributed  to  its  total  insolubility 
in  the  fluids  of  the  digestive  canal,  while  upon  the  dry  skin  nothing  interferes  with 
its  irritant  action.  It  has  been  used  as  a vermifuge.  According  to  Basiner,  the  sub- 
cutaneous injection  of  small  doses  of  cardol  produces  on  cold-blooded  animals  paresis, 
increasing  to  paralysis,  of  the  extremities,  stupor,  arrest  of  respiration,  and  tetanic 
spasms.  In  warm-blooded  animals  large  doses  are  not  lethal,  but  stupor,  paralysis  of  the 
extremities,  and  diarrhoea  occur,  and  after  death  congestion  of  the  intestinal  membrane 
is  found.  Cardol  seems  to  be  excreted  chiefly  with  the  urine,  but  partially  also  with  the 
feces.  Applied  on  a small  piece  of  lint  to  the  skin  of  the  breast,  it  raised  a watery 
blister  in  fourteen  hours.  The  brown-black  oil  of  the  Oriental  cashew-nut  occasioned 
within  twelve  hours  a black  blister,  and  on  the  following  day  eczematous  vesicles  appeared 
in  the  neighborhood,  and  afterward  extended  to  the  arms,  hands,  face,  abdomen,  and  penis, 
the  poison  no  doubt  being  carried  thither  by  the  fingers.  On  the  sixth  day  scales  began 
to  form  on  the  breast  and  forehead ; micturition  was  painful,  the  urine  red-brown  ; the 
stools  bloody  and  very  painful.  More  than  two  weeks  elapsed  before  the  sores  were 
healed  (Basiner,  Am.  Jour.  Phar.,  Mar.  1882,  p.  131).  This  oil  has  been  used  with 
advantage  in  distroying  the  cutaneous  tubercles  of  leprosy,  which  it  causes  to  soften  and 
disappear  (Peters,  Edinb.  Med.  Jour.,  xxviii.  814). 

ANDIRA. — Cabbage  Tree  Bark. 

Ecorce  de  geoffree , Fr. ; Kohlbaumrinde , Wurmrinde,  G. 

The  bark  of  Andira  (Geoffroya,  Swartz)  inermis,  Kunth,  and  of  Andira  (Geoffroya, 
Lamarck)  retusa,  Kunth. 

Nat.  Ord. — Leguminosae,  Papilionacese. 

Origin. — Both  species  are  medium-sized  trees,  with  impari-pinnate  leaves,  terminal 
racemes  of  red  flowers,  and  roundish  hard  one-seeded  pods.  The  first-named  species  is  a 
native  of  Jamaica  and  other  West  Indian  islands,  the  second  is  found  in  Surinam  and 
Cayenne. 

Description. — Jamaica  cabbage  tree  bark  occurs  in  long  pieces  about  one-eighth  of 
an  inch  (3  Mm.)  thick,  gray  or  whitish,  and  fissured  externally,  upon  the  inner  surface 
brownish  and  striate,  internally  brown  or  brownish,  radially  striate,  and  with  yellowish 
bast-fibres  in  tangential  rows,  which  cause  the  laminated  fibrous  appearance  of  the  bark 
when  broken  transversely.  It  yields  a grayish  powder,  and  has  a feeble  but  disagreeable 
odor  and  a mucilaginous  bitter  taste. 

Surinam  cabbage  tree  bark  resembles  the  preceding,  but  is  internally  dark  red-brown, 
has  a checkered  and  glossy  appearance  on  transverse  section,  yields  a cinnamon-colored 
powder,  is  nearly  inodorous,  and  has  a bitterish  acrid  taste. 

Constituents. — Huttenschmid  (1824)  discovered  in  each  of  the  cabbage  tree  barks 
an  alkaloid,  which  he  named  jamaicine  and  surinamine , the  former  of  which  was  proved 
by  Gastell  (1866)  to  be  identical  with  berberine.  The  latter  is  described  as  being  in  fine 
white  needles,  scarcely  soluble  in  cold  water,  alcohol,  and  ether,  but  readily  soluble  in 
boiling  water.  The  other  constituents  are  those  commonly  occurring  in  plants ; the  bark 
from  Surinam  contains  also  notable  quantities  of  tannin. 

Allied  Species. — And.  anthelmintica,  Bentham,  s.  Geof.  vermifuga,  St.  Hilaire,  is  a tall  forest 
tree  of  Brazil.  The  seeds,  known  there  as  angelim  amargosa , are  of  the  size  of  a nutmeg,  oblong, 


A NETHI  FR  UCT  US.— A NGELICA . 


209 


somewhat  horny,  yellowish,  usually  in  transverse  or  longitudinal  sections,  whitish  internally, 
inodorous,  and  almost  tasteless.  They  are  regarded  as  anthelmintic.  According  to  Peckolt 
(1858),  the  wood  contains  andirin , a brown-yellow  coloring  principle,  soluble  in  water  and  fixed 
and  volatile  oils,  but  insoluble  in  alcohol  and  ether.  The  drastic  and  anthelmintic  principle  is 
an  acrid  resin  soluble  in  ether  and  alcohol.  (See  also  Araroba.) 

Action  and  Uses. — In  medium  doses  andira  is  said  to  occasion  nausea,  vomiting, 
diarrhoea,  fever,  and  delirium,  especially  when  given  in  cold  infusion.  Sometimes  it 
augments  the  urinary  secretion.  It  was  used  in  the  West  Indies  as  a remedy  for  lumbri- 
coid  worms.  The  dose  is  stated  to  be  from  Gm.  0.30-0.60  (gr.  v-x)  for  children,  and 
from  Gm.  0.60-2.00  (gr.  x-xxx)  for  adults.  An  infusion  or  decoction  was  made  with 
Gm.  30  in  Gm.  250  (an  ounce  of  the  bark  in  8 fluidounces  of  water),  and  was  given  in 
tablespoonful  doses  until  nausea  began  to  be  felt. 


ANETHI  FRUCTUS,  Br.— Dill-Fruit. 

Aneth , Fenouil  puant , Fr. ; Dill,  G. ; Eneldo , Sp. 

The  fruit  of  Anethum  (Peucedanum,  Hiern ) graveolens,  Limit. 

Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  PI. , 132. 

Nat.  Ord. — Umbelliferas,  Orthospermae. 

Origin. — The  plant  is  indigenous  to  Southern  Europe  and  Asia 
Minor,  and  is  cultivated  in  other  parts  of  Europe  and  in  this  country. 

It  is  an  annual,  with  finely-divided  glaucous  leaves,  growing  to  the 
height  of  about  2 feet  (60  Cm.)  and  bearing  yellow  flowers. 

Description. — The  fruit  is  oval,  about  one-eighth  to  one-fifth  of 
an  inch  (3  to  5 Mm.)  long,  dorsally  compressed,  of  a brown  color,  and 
separates  when  ripe  into  two  mericarps,  which  are  flat  upon  their  face 
and  somewhat  convex  upon  the  back.  The  three  dorsal  ribs  are  fili- 
form and  rather  sharply  keeled,  while  the  two  lateral  ones  are  extended  into  a light-colored 
broad  membranous  margin.  The  fruit  cultivated  in  India  is  narrower,  more  convex  on 
the  back,  and  is  less  winged  than  the  European  fruit.  Of  the  six  dark-colored  vittae,  two 
are  found  on  the  commissure,  the  remaining  four  in  the  furrows  of  the  back.  The  odor 
and  taste  of  dill  are  aromatic. 

Constituents  and  Uses. — The  fruit  contains  a fixed  and  3 to  4 per  cent,  of  an 
oxygenated  volatile  oil  (see  Oleum  Anethi),  to  which  its  medicinal  properties  are  due. 
It  is  used  for  preparing  dill-water. 

Action  and  Uses. — Pill  is  not  much  used  in  this  country.  It  has  the  properties 
of  the  aromatic  stimulants  generally,  and  is  employed  to  relieve  flatulent  colic  and  hiccup 
occasioned  by  gastric  indigestion  and  flatulence.  Pill-water,  the  usual  form  of  exhibit- 
ing it,  may  be  given  in  doses  of  Gm.  4 (f^j)  or  more.  The  essential  oil  may  likewise 
be  used  in  the  dose  of  from  Gm.  0.10-0.30  (npij-v)  with  sugar  or  incorporated  with 
magnesia. 


Fig.  24. 


Anethum : fruit,  3 

diameters ; trans- 
verse section,  5 di- 
ameters. 


ANGELICA,  F.  It. — Angelica-Root. 

Racine  d'  ang  clique,  Fr. ; Engelwurzel , G.  ; Angelica , Sp. 

The  root  of  (1)  Archangelica  officinalis,  Hoffmann , s.  Angelica  Archangelica,  Linne,  s. 
Ang.  officinalis,  Moench , and  of  (2)  Arch.  (Angelica,  Linne)  atropurpurea,  Hoffmann , s. 
Ang.  triquinata,  Michaux. 

Nat.  Ord. — Umbelliferae,  Orthospermae. 

Origin. — These  plants  attain  a height  of  6 feet  (1.8  M._).  The  former  is  indigenous  to 
Northern  Europe,  and  the  latter  to  North  America,  from  Pennsylvania  northward.  The 
European  angelica-root  is  solely  obtained  from  plants  cultivated  in  Germany,  which  differ 
in  some  respects  from  the  wild  species  named,  of  which  they  are  regarded  by  some  bot- 
anists as  a variety  merely,  and  by  others  as  a distinct  species,  Archan.  (Angelica,  Miller) 
sativa,  Fries. 

Description. — European  or  garden  angelica-root  consists  of  a short,  thick  root-stock, 
which  is  closely  annulated  above,  and  below  abruptly  divided  into  a large  number  of  nearly 
simple  branches,  which  are  about  \ inch  (6  Mm.)  thick  and  6 inches  (15  Cm.)  long,  longi- 
tudinally wrinkled,  of  a grayish-brown  color  externally,  yellowish  inside,  with  a spongy, 
radiated  meditullium  and  numerous  shining  resin-cells  in  the  thick  bark.  It  has  a strong 
aromatic  odor  and  a sweetish,  pungently  aromatic,  and  bitter  taste,  and  breaks  with  a 
smooth  somewhat  waxy  fracture. 

American  angelica-root  is  similar,  but  smaller,  has  a longer  main  root,  few  branches,  a 
14 


210 


ANGUSTURA. 


lighter  color,  fewer  resin-dots  in  the  bark,  and  is  less  strongly  aromatic.  The  very  similar 
but  rather  smaller  root  of  Archan.  (Angelica,  Michaux ) hirsuta,  Toney  and  Gray , which 
grows  southward  to  Florida,  is  not  unfrequently  collected  with  it. 

The  root  of  the  European  Ang.  sylvestris,  Linne , is  light  gray-yellow,  internally  white, 
and  more  woody. 

All  the  above  roots  are  readily  attacked  by  insects. 

Constituents. — Garden  angelica  contains  about  i per  cent,  of  yellowish  volatile  oil, 
a white  waxy  matter  crystallizing  from  hot  alcohol  in  wart-like  masses ; angelicin , which 
is  a somewhat  acrid  acid  resin,  soluble  in  alkalies  and  crystallizing  from  alcohol  in  color- 
less needles  ; volatile  angelic  acid;  an  amorphous  bitter  principle ; some  tannin,  pectin,  and 
other  common  principles  (Buchner,  1842).  The  volatile  oil  was  examined  by  F.  Beil- 
stein  and  E.  Wiegand  (1882),  who,  by  fractional  distillation  and  rectification  over  sodium, 
obtained  three  terpenes,  of  which  one  distilled  at  158°  C.  (316.4°  F.),  the  second  near 
175°  C.  (347°  F.),  and  the  third  near  250°  C.  (482°  F.).  The  first  one  is  present  in 
largest  quantity ; the  second  yields  a crystallizable  hydrochloride  having  the  properties 
of  the  so-called  artificial  camphor,  and  melting  at  127°  C.  (260.6°  F.).  Naudin  (1883) 
showed  that  by  distillation  in  vacuo  a hydrocarbon  of  a peppery  odor  and  the  boiling-point 
166°  C.  is  obtained,  and  that  at  160°  C.  (320°  F.)  it  becomes  thick  and  polymerized ; the 
volatile  oil  of  the  fruit,  examined  in  1881,  boils  at  175°  C.  (347°  F.),  but  becomes  thick 
already  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  ; these  hydrocarbons  have  been  named  terebangelene.  The 
composition  of  the  American  roots  is  probably  similar. 

Angelic  acid , C5H802,  crystallizes  in  colorless  prisms,  melts  at  45°  C.  (113°  F.),  boils  S,t 
190°  C.  (374°  F.),  has  a peculiar  aromatic  odor  and  a strongly  acid  taste,  and  when  melted 
with  potassa  yields  propionic  and  acetic  acids. 

Action  and  Uses. — Angelica  is  tonic,  stimulant,  and  diaphoretic,  and  in  large 
doses  and  in  warm  infusion  may  act  as  an  emetic  or  a diaphoretic.  It  was  formerly 
employed  in  the  treatment  of  typhoid  conditions  to  meet  the  same  indications  for  which 
serpentaria  and  valerian  are  now  generally  administered.  It  appears  to  have  been  bene- 
ficial in  chronic  bronchitis  under  conditions  similar  to  those  in  which  senega  is  recom- 
mended. It  has  also  been  used  in  chronic  rheumatism  and  gout  and  in  intermittent  fever. 
Angelica-root  may  be  given  in  powder  in  doses  of  from  Gm.  0.60-2.00  (gr.  x-xxx),  or 
an  infusion  made  with  Gm.  32  (§j)  of  the  root  to  Gm.  500  (Oj)  of  water  or  white  wine 
may  be  used  in  the  dose  of  1 or  2 teaspoonfuls.  Externally  it  is  sometimes  applied  in  a 
decoction  to  foment  painful  parts. 


AN  GU  STUR  A.— Angustura-B  ark. 


Cusparise  cortex , Br. ; Cortex  angusturse. — Angusture,  Fr. ; A ngustura-Rinde,  G. 


The  bark  of  Galipea  Cusparia,  St.  Hilaire , s.  Gal.  officinalis,  Hancock,  s.  Gal.  febrifuga, 
Baillon , s.  Cusparia  febrifuga,  Humboldt , s.  Bonplandia  trifoliata,  Willdenow.  Bentley  and 
Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 43. 

Nat.  Ord. — Rutaceae,  Cusparieae. 

Origin. — The  tree  attains  a height  of  20  feet  (6  M.),  and  is  found  abundantly  in  the 
mountains  near  the  Orinoko  River. 

Description. — The  bark  is  met  with  in  commerce  in  flat  or  curved  pieces,  usually 
between  1 and  3 inches  (about  5 Cm.)  in  length,  rarely  longer,  about  1 to  1 $ inches  (25-38 

Mm.)  wide,  and  J-g-  to  £ inch  (1.5-3  Mm.) 
Fig.  25.  thick.  Its  color  is  reddish-brown,  the 

inner  surface  smooth  and  lighter  than 
the  outer  surface,  which  is  uneven,  and, 
if  carefully  preserved,  covered  with  an 
ochrey-gray,  scurfy,  and  friable  cork.  It 
breaks  readily  with  a smooth,  somewhat 
granular  fracture,  which  is  of  a reddish- 
brown  color,  resinous  in  appearance,  and 
displays  to  the  naked  eye  numerous 
white,  glistening  striae  of  crystals  of  cal- 
cium oxalate.  The  latter  are  more 
plainly  visible  with  a lens,  whereby  also 
the  radiating  medullary  rays  and  bast- 
The  odor  of  the  bark  is  aromatic,  not  agreeable ; its  taste  is  aro- 


An  gust  ura-bark : transverse  section,  magnified  10  diameters. 


wedges  are  revealed, 
matic  and  bitter. 


ANILINA. 


211 


Substitutions. — The  so-called  false  angustura-bark  obtained  from  Strychnos  Nux 
vomica,  Linne , was  found  in  Europe,  early  in  the  present  century,  mixed  with  the  former, 
to  which  it  bears  no  resemblance.  The  trunk-bark  is  of  an  irregular  shape,  rather  thick 
and  hard,  externally  gray,  with  bright  rust-colored  patches  of  cork,  and  white  warts  ; the 
inner  surface  brown  ; the  fracture  smooth  and  destitute  of  white  striae ; the  branch-bark 
is  more  or  less  quilled,  externally  gray,  with  whitish  warts.  It  has  a bitter  taste,  and  con- 
tains strychnine  and  brucine. 

Another  substitution  appears  to  be  frequently  met  with  in  France,  and  has  also  been 
noticed  in  this  country  ( Amer . Jour.  Pharm .,  1874,  pp.  50,  414).  This  bark,  now  some- 
times called  Brazilian  angustura , comes  from  Brazil,  from  Esenbeckia  (Evodia,  St.  Hilaire ) 
febrifuga,  Martins,  and  consists  of  dark -brown  inner  layers,  covered  with  patches  of  a soft, 
brownish-gray  cork,  which  is  of  a pale-orange  rust-brown  within  ; it  breaks  with  a short 
fibrous  fracture,  is  without  the  white  striae,  and  has  a purely  bitter  not  aromatic  taste. 
Copalchi,  guaiacum,  and  other  more  or  less  bitter  barks  have  likewise  been  observed  as 
adulterations. 

Constituents. — The  latest  analysis  of  angustura-bark  is  by  Oberlin  and  Schlagden- 
haulfen  (1878),  who  found  9.2  per  cent,  moisture,  .27  fat,  wax,  and  stearic  acid,  soluble 
in  benzin,  .47  fat  soluble  in  alcohol  and  yellow  bitter  matter,  3.86  resin,  .19  volatile  oil, 
7.8  ash.  The  bitter  matter  contained  an  alkaloid,  angosturine , CuJT^NOh,  which  melts  at 
85°  C.  (185°  F.),  is  crystallizable,  and  is  turned  red  by  pure  sulphuric  acid  and  green  by 
the  same  acid  containing  nitric  acid  or  other  oxidizing  agent.  The  volatile  oil,  according 
to  Herzog  (1858),  has  the  composition  C1:JH240,  and  boils  at  266°  C.  (511°  F.).  Cusparin 
was  obtained  by  Saladin  (1833)  by  spontaneously  evaporating  the  tincture  prepared  with 
strong  alcohol.  It  crystallizes  in  the  cold  in  needles  and  tetrahedrons,  fuses  at  a moderate 
heat,  is  inflammable,  insoluble  in  ether  and  volatile  oils,  soluble  in  100  parts  of  boiling 
water,  but  readily  soluble  in  alcohol ; it  is  neutral  in  behavior  and  has  a bitter  taste. 
Herzog  was  unable  to  obtain  it.  Tannin  is  not  present,  but  the  infusion  yields  a red-brown 
precipitate  with  ferric  chloride  and  several  other  metallic  salts. 

The  Brazilian  angustura-bark  contains  the  alkaloid  evodine  or  esenbeckine,  C6H18N06, 
which  is  colored  yellowish-green  by  sulphuric  acid  (Oberlin  and  Schlagdenhauflen). 

Action  and  Uses. — Angustura  has  a tonic  operation  without  astringency,  and  a 
slightly  stimulating  action.  It  was  at  one  time  supposed  to  be  a valuable  antiperiodic, 
but  experience  has  proved  it  to  have  no  more  claim  to  this  virtue  than  the  simple  bitters. 
It  is  probably  of  more  use  in  the  typhoid  state  of  fevers  and  inflammations,  and 
especially  in  that  of  tropical  dysentery,  in  which  its  highest  reputation  has  been  gained. 
In  ordinary  cases  of  atonic  dyspepsia,  and  especially  in  those  in  which  flatulence  predom- 
inates, it  has  been  found  of  service.  But  it  has  no  special  superiority  over  numerous 
other  tonic  and  aromatic  stimulants  which  can  be  more  readily  procured.  The  dose  of 
angustura  in  powder  is  from  Gm.  0.60-2.00  (gr.  x-xxx).  An  infusion  may  be  made  by 
percolation,  containing  Gm.  16  in  Gm.  500  (^ss  in  Oj)  of  water.  Dose,  Gm.  32-64 

(faj-ij)* 

ANILINA,  F.  It. — Aniline. 

Amidobenzene,  Phenylamine,  E.  ; Aniline , Fr. ; Anilin,  G. 

Formula  C6H7N  or  C6H5NH2.  Molecular  weight  92.83. 

Origin. — Aniline  was  discovered  by  Unverdorben  (1826)  among  the  products  of  the 
dry  distillation  of  indigo,  and  was  found  by  Bunge  (1833)  in  the  heavy  oil  of  coal-tar. 
Zinin  (1842)  introduced  the  method  of  preparing  it  from  nitrobenzene  by  the  action  of 
hydrogen  sulphide  in  the  presence  of  alcohol  and  ammonia,  and  A.  W.  Hofmann  (1845) 
by  nascent  hydrogen  from  the  action  of  dilute  sulphuric  acid  upon  zinc.  The  name 
aniline  (from  anil,  the  Portuguese  name  for  indigo)  was  proposed  by  Fritzsche  (1841). 
Unverdorben  had  called  it  crystalline , and  Runge  kyanol  on  account  of  the  deep  violet- 
blue  color  which  it  gives  with  chlorinated  lime.  The  identity  of  these  bodies  was  proven 
by  Erdmann  and  Hofmann.  Aniline  has  also  been  named  benzidam  and  phenamid. 

Preparation. — Aniline  is  prepared  from  nitrobenzene  by  the  reducing  action  of 
nascent  hydrogen,  by  digesting  with  a mixture  of  iron  filings  and  acetic  acid,  as  sug- 
gested by  Bechamp,  in  which  case  the  deoxidizing  action  of  ferrous  acetate,  Fe(C2H,(U)2, 
first  produced,  materially  assists  the  change.  Nitrobenzene  is  thereby  converted  into 
aniline  and  water  ; C6H5(N02)  -f  3H2  yields  C6II7N  -f-  2H20.  The  acetic  acid  has  been 
replaced,  by  Brimmeyr,  by  hydrochloric  acid.  When,  after  several  days,  the  reaction 


212 


ANILINA. 


is  completed,  milk  of  lime  is  added  and  the  aniline  is  distilled  off,  the  receiver  being 
changed  toward  the  close  of  the  distillation  ; the  temperature  then  rises,  and  a red  oil, 
azobenzid , C12H10O2,  passes  over,  which  congeals  to  a crystalline  mass.  The  separation  of 
aniline  from  the  heavy  oil  of  coal-tar  is  effected  by  a complicated  process  depending  upon 
its  solubility  in  hydrochloric  acid,  the  insolubility  of  this  compound  in  ether,  the  libera- 
tion of  the  bases  by  an  alkali,  and  their  separation  from  each  other  by  fractional  distilla- 
tion. 

Properties. — Aniline  is  a colorless,  limpid,  oily,  inflammable  liquid  of  a peculiar 
wine-like  odor  and  burning  aromatic  taste.  It  has  the  spec.  grav.  1.0245  at  15°  C.(59° 
F.),  congeals  at  a low  temperature,  melts  at  — 8°  C.  (17.6°  F.),  boils  at  184.5°  C.  (364.1° 
F.),  acquires  in  contact  with  air  a yellow  and  brown  color,  is  sparingly  soluble  in  cold 
water  and  in  all  proportions  of  wood-spirit,  alcohol,  ether,  aldehyde,  acetone,  and  fixed 
and  volatile  oils.  It  dissolves  phosphorus,  camphor,  several  resins,  and  by  the  aid  of 
heat  much  sulphur;  coagulates  albumen  ; precipitates  the  salts  of  iron,  zinc,  and  alumi- 
num ; and  unites  with  acids  to  form  salts,  which  are  mostly  crystallizable,  readily  solu- 
ble in  water,  inodorous  and  colorless,  but  acquire  a red  color  in  contact  with  the  air; 
alkalies  decompose  them,  with  the  separation  of  aniline.  Commercial  pure  aniline 
usually  contains  about  1 per  cent,  of  toluidine : other  grades  contain  more  of  this  base. 

Toluidine  or  amidotoluene , C7H9N  or  C7H7NH2,  exists  in  three  modifications,  of  which 
two  are  present  in  the  product  of  the  above  process.  Parcttoluidine  forms  colorless  tab- 
ular crystals,  melts  at  45°  C.  (113°  F.),  and  boils  at  198°  C.  (288.4°  F.).  Orthotoluidine 
or  pseudotoluidine  is  a colorless  liquid  of  the  same  density  as  water  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.), 
boiling  at  199.5°  C.  (390.2°  F.),  and  not  solidifying  at  — 20°  C.  ( — 4°  F.). 

Toluidine  gives  a reddish  color  with  chlorinated  lime,  but  aniline  is  characterized  by 
the  production  of  a violet  color  with  the  same  reagent — a reaction  which  has  led  to  its 
application  in  the  production  of  coal-tar  dyes , the  more  important  of  which  are  the  fol- 
lowing : 

Aniline-purple,  or  mauve,  is  obtained  by  acting  upon  aniline  with  sulphuric  acid 
and  potassium  dichromate  or  other  oxidizing  agents,  whereby  the  alkaloid  mauveine, 
c26h24n4,  is  produced. 

Safranine,  C21H20N4,  is  a red  compound  obtained  from  aniline  containing  toluidine 
by  treatment  with  nitrous  and  arsenic  acid. 

Aniline-red,  or  magenta,,  is  formed  by  heating  a mixture  of  aniline  and  toluidine 
with  corrosive  sublimate  or  arsenic  acid,  and  is  a salt  of  rosaniline , C20Hi9N3,  or  of  para- 
rosaniline,  C19H17N3,  the  alkaloids  being  colorless.  Roseine,  fuchsine,  and  azaleine  are  the 
acetate,  hydrochloride,  and  nitrate  of  the  same  base.  If  obtained  by  the  action  of  arsenic 
acid  the  dyes  usually  contain  arsenic.  To  obtain  the  dyes  free  from  arsenic  the  oxida- 
tion is  now  often  effected  by  nitrobenzene  or  nitrotoluene. 

Aniline-yellow,  or  chrysaniline , C20H17N3,  is  a yellow  secondary  product  of  the  pre- 
ceding process ; its  hydrochloride  has  a scarlet  color,  and  its  nitrate  is  ruby-red  and  very 
sparingly  soluble  in  water. 

Aniline-blue  is  a salt  of  triphenyl-rosaniline,  C20H16(C6H5)3N3,  obtained  by  boiling  a 
salt  of  rosaniline  with  aniline,  and  by  treatment  with  iodide  of  methyl,  ethyl,  and  similar 
compounds  a large  variety  of  blue,  violet,  and  green  ( iodine-green , methyl-green,  etc.)  dyes 
are  obtained. 

Aniline-black,  or  jetoline,  a salt  of  Ci2H10N2,  is  very  dark-green,  and  is  obtained  by 
the  slow  oxidation  of  aniline.  Nigrosine , C30H29O3HCl,  is  a similar  compound  of  a dark- 
blue  tint. 

The  aniline  colors  are  largely  employed  in  dyeing,  and  are  used  in  the  preparation  of 
colored  inks,  which  consist  of  aqueous  solutions  of  the  dyes,  to  which  a small  quantity 
of  gum-arabic  may  be  added.  Ink  for  stamping  is  made  by  dissolving  5 parts  of  the 
dye  in  75  parts  of  hot  water,  and  adding  1 part  of  syrup  and  2 parts  of  glycerin.  On 
exposure  to  light  all  aniline  dyes  fade  more  or  less  rapidly. 

Most  of  the  aniline  dyes  used  in  the  United  States  are  imported  from  Europe,  the 
importation  having  increased  from  210,500  pounds  in  1877  to  1,103,864  pounds  in  1882. 

During  the  last  few  years  several  of  the  aniline  dyes  have  been  proposed  for  medical 
use,  both  internally  and  externally,  on  account  of  their  reputed  antiseptic  and  analgesic 
qualities  ; they  are  also  employed  as  valuable  staining  agents  in  histological  and  bacterio- 
logical work.  The  following  are  deserving  of  special  notice  : 

Fuchsine,  or  rosaniline  hydrochloride,  C20H19N3HC1,  occurs  in  bright  iridescent  crys- 
tals, which  are  soluble  in  10  parts  of  alcohol,  but  require  300  parts  of  water  for  solution  ; 
in  pure  essential  oils  fuchsine  is  insoluble,  and  can  therefore  be  used  to  detect  the 


ANILINA. 


213 


presence  of  alcohol  in  oils.  Although  commercial  fuchsine  is  frequently  contaminated 
with  arsenic,  it  is  possible  to  obtain  it  entirely  free  from  this  impurity  if  prepared  by 
Jegel’s  process,  which  consists  in  heating  together  aniline  nitrate  and  hydrochloride  in 
proper  proportions  : the  resulting  mass  is  treated  with  water,  which  removes  the  fuchsine, 
leaving  a peculiar  blue  compound  behind  ( Proc . A.  P.  A.,  1875).  Fuchsine  has  been 
used  in  albuminuria,  and  externally  (in  form  of  a 1 per  cent,  alcoholic  solution)  with 
success  in  traumatic  erysipelas.  It  has  also  been  employed  with  marked  benefit  in 
throat  affections.  The  maximum  adult  dose  according  to  Fischer  is  4 grains. 

Methylene  blue , or  Tetramethyl  thionin-chloride,  C]6Hj8N3SC1,  is  prepared  by  treating 
dimethylparaphenylenediamine  (NH2C6H4N2CH3)  in  acid  solution  with  hydrogen  sul- 
phide and  ferric  chloride ; formerly  the  commercial  form  only  was  to  be  had,  which  con- 
sisted of  a double  chloride  of  zinc  and  tetramethylthionin,  but  the  zinc  was  removed 
by  purification,  and  the  pure  article  alone  should  be  employed.  It  occurs  in  small  blue 
scaly  crystals  with  a copper-bronze  tinge,  and  is  readily  soluble  in  water.  Methylene 
blue  has  been  used  with  more  or  less  success  in  neuralgic  and  rheumatic  affections,  and 
also  in  intermittent  fevers,  the  average  adult  dose  being  II  grains  five  or  six  times  a day. 
It  has  proved  the  best  stain  for  the  plasmodia  found  in  the  blood-corpuscles  of  malarial 
patients.  In  the  form  of  a 10  per  cent,  solution  it  has  been  used  successfully  as  a local 
application  in  diphtheria  and  chronic  cystitis.  It  must  not  be  confounded  with  methyl 
blue , the  sodium  salt  of  triphenylpararosaniline-trisulphonic  acid,  C37H26N3S309Na3,  which 
is  made  by  treating  pararosaniline  with  aniline,  and  the  resulting  product  with  sul- 
phuric acid.  Sodium  hydroxide,  added  to  a solution  of  methylene  blue,  causes  the  blue 
color  to  change  to  violet,  while  in  the  case  of  methyl  blue  it  changes  to  reddish-brown. 

Pyoktanin — Two  varieties,  blue  and  yellow  pyoktanin,  have  been  brought  to  notice, 
the  former  -intended  for  general  surgery,  the  latter  more  especially  for  ophthalmic 
practice.  Only  the  blue  pyoktanin,  methyl  violet,  appears  to  have  been  employed  to 
any  extent ; it  is  probably  of  variable  composition,  tetra-,  penta-,  or  hexamethyl  para- 
rosaniline, while  yellow  pyoktanin  is  one  of  the  group  of  dyes  known  as  auramines. 
Pyoktanin  has  been  used  with  varying  results  by  oculists  and  laryngologists,  but  the 
reports  are  often  confusing  and  conflicting. 

Apyonin  was  brought  forward  as  a rival  to  pyoktanin,  and  has  been  claimed  to  be 
identical  with  the  yellow  variety  of  that  substance,  but  it  has  failed  to  attract  much 
attention. 

Benzo-phenoneid  is  said  to  be  equal  to  pyoktanin  in  germicidal  properties ; it  is  soluble 
in  100  parts  of  water,  and  is  neither  caustic  nor  irritant.  The  discoverers  of  it  claim 
that  it  is  a definite  compound  produced  by  the  decomposition  of  an  aniline  dye. 

Action  and  Uses. — Workmen  exposed  to  the  vapors  evolved  in  the  manufacture 
of  aniline  acquire  a cyanotic  hue  of  the  face,  lips,  and  mouth,  and  suffer  from  giddiness, 
headache,  chilliness,  weakness  of  the  lower  limbs,  and  sometimes  epileptiform  convul- 
sions. They  are  subject  also  to  bronchial  irritation,  nausea,  constipation,  diarrhoea,  and 
cutaneous  eruptions.  A carboy  of  aniline  oil  breaking,  the  man  engaged  in  moving  it 
fell  into  a stertorous  sleep  of  many  hours’  duration,  with  complete  insensibility  of  the 
skin.  For  three  days  he  suffered  pain  in  the  bladder  and  had  haematuria  ( Med . News , 
xlvii.  464).  A woman  who  swallowed  f^iiss  of  aniline  oil  fell  into  coma,  with  cyanosis, 
collapse,  and  jaundice  with  ecchymoses  (Med.  News , lii.  409).  An  infant  has  been  poi- 
soned by  wearing  a diaper  marked  with  aniline  ink  (Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  Nov. 
1886,  p.  473),  and  a man  by  using  the  point  of  an  aniline  pencil  to  dislodge  the  fang  of 
a broken  tooth  from  his  gum  (Med.  Record,  Nov.  1886,  p.  571).  Stockings,  cravats, 
gloves,  etc.  dyed  with  aniline  have**  occasioned  eczematous  eruptions  upon  the  skin  in 
contact  with  them,  and  patients  affected  with  psoriasis  have  been  poisoned  by  the  appli- 
cation of  bandages  wet  with  a solution  of  muriate  of  aniline.  In  the  case  of  a woman 
who  had  attempted  suicide  by  swallowing  about  six  fluidrachms  of  aniline  oil,  and  who 
died  in  a few  hours,  there  were  found  many  haemorrhagic  nodules  or  effusions  in  the  heart- 
muscles,  the  lungs,  and  kidneys,  and  aniline  was  detected  in  the  urine  (Archives  gen., 
Juin,  1885,  p.  735). 

Aniline  has  been  used  in  chorea.  Six  inveterate  cases  are  reported  to  have  been  speedily 
cured  by  this  agent  in  doses  of  1 or  2 grains  three  times  a day  (Turnbull)  ; while  in 
another  group  of  five  cases,  in  which  aniline  was  given  persistently  until  the  doses 
reached  (5m.  0.40-0.45  (gr.  vj-vij)  three  times  a day,  not  the  slightest  impression  was 
made  upon  the  symptoms  (Fraser,  etc.).  It  has  also  been  administered  in  epilepsy  with- 
out apparent  advantage.  The  use  of  fuchsine  (a  derivative  of  aniline)  to  color  wines  was 
claimed  to  be  innocuous,  and  when  employed  as  a medicine  it  caused  the  disappearance  of 


214 


ANISUM. 


albumen  from  the  urine  while  increasing  the  proportion  of  phosphates  in  this  secretion 
( Gaz . hebdomadaire,  June  23,  1876).  Divet  observed  that  it  removed  albuminuria  with- 
out regard  to  its  cause  (Bull,  de  Therap .,  xcviii.  89).  Bouchut  found  it  an  efficient 
remedy  for  scarlatinous  dropsy,  and  not  productive  of  injury  ( Practitioner , xxiii.  203). 
Similar  results  were  obtained  by  Sawyer  in  England  ( Practitioner , xxvi.  41)  and  De 
Benzi  in  Genoa  ( Virchows  Archiv , lxxx.  510).  It  seems,  however,  that  it  has  only  been 
conspicuously  useful  in  tubular  nephritis,  and  Dieulafoy  denies  that  it  diminishes  renal 
dropsy  or  its  attendant  thoracic  and  pulmonary  symptoms  ( Bull . de  Therap .,  xcvii.  478). 
It  has  been  claimed,  on  very  insufficient  grounds,  to  be  a remedy  for  phthisis  {Med.  News, 
1.  346).  It  appears,  therefore,  that  neither  the  conditions  nor  the  nature  of  its  influence 
is  at  present  understood.  Moreover,  a longer  clinical  experience  has  rendered  it  prob- 
able that  the  aniline  colors  are  of  no  value  in  therapeutics  {Centralbl.  f.  Therap.,  viii. 
495  ; Therap.  Gaz.,  xiv.  533).  The  daily  portion  of  fuchsine  has  varied  between  Gm. 
0.10-0.20  (gr.  iss-iij),  given  in  divided  doses,  and  it  is  said  that  it  may  be  prescribed  to 
the  extent  of  from  gr.  iij-v  without  causing  nausea. 

Pyoctanin  (methyl  violet)  was  stated  in  1890  {Therap.  Monatsh.,  iv.  294)  to  be  a 
valuable  remedy  in  certain  diseases  of  the  eye  by  arresting  inflammation,  suppuration, 
and  ulceration,  and  that  it  was  superior  to  other  antibacillar  agents  when  applied  in  a 
solution  of  1 : 2000-1  : 5000,  or  in  powder,  pencil,  or  ointment,  or  was  administered  in 
pastilles.  These  claims,  were,  in  the  main,  supported  by  Bresgen  {ibid.,  p.  479),  who 
concluded  that  the  preparation  allayed  pain,  inflammation,  and  suppuration,  but  were 
rather  discredited  by  other  reporters,  as  Liebreich  made  manifest  {ibid.,  p.  344).  Indeed, 
it  seemed  that  its  application  to  the  eye  and  nostrils  often  aggravated  the  existing  inflam- 
mation of  those  parts.  Braunschweig  reached  a similar  conclusion  {Centralbl.  f.  Therap., 
viii.  496).  As  the  preparation  consists  of  various,  and  perhaps  varying,  ingredients,  an 
accurate  estimate  of  its  virtues  is  at  present  impracticable. 

ANISUM,  77.  S.—  Anise. 

Anisi  fructus , Br. ; Fructus  Anisi,  P.  G. ; Fructus  ( Semen ) Anisi  vidgaris. — Aniseed, 
E. ; Anis , Anis  vert , Fr. ; Anis,  G. 

The  fruit  of  Fimpinella  Anisum,  Linne,  s.  Anisum  vulgare,  Moench . Bentley  and 
Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  122. 

Nat.  Ord. — Umbelliferse,  Orthospermae. 

Origin. — The  plant  is  an  annual  which  is  indigenous  to  the  eastern  portion  of  the 
basin  of  the  Mediterranean,  and  extensively  cultivated  in  Southern  and  Central  Europe, 
and  occasionally  in  this  country.  It  grows  to  about  1 foot  (30 
Cm.)  in  height,  has  the  radical  leaves  roundish-cordate,  lobed, 
and  serrate,  the  stem  leaves  pinnate  with  lanceolate  lobes,  and 
the  upper  ones  trifid  or  undivided  and  linear.  The  flowers  are 
small  and  white,  in  numerous  small  and  long-stalked  umbels. 

Description. — The  fruit  is  about  £ to  ^ inch  (4-5  Mm.) 
long,  ovate,  tapering  above  toward  the  thick  stylopode,  somewhat 
compressed  at  the  sides,  of  a grayish  or  greenish-gray  color,  and 
covered  with  short  appressed  hairs.  The  two  mericarps  are  su- 
ally  united.  Each  has  five  light-brownish  filiform  ridges,  and 
Anisum:  Fruit  and  longitu-  from  12  to  20  oil-tubes  situated  on  the  flat  commissure  and  in 

dmai  section,  magnified  3 furr0ws.  The  fruit  has  an  agreeable  aromatic  odor  and  a 
diameters ; transverse  sec-  . . ° . 

tion,  magnified  8 diameters,  sweet  spicy  taste.  Ihe  importation  of  anise  and  star-anise  in 

1877  was  93,485  pounds,  and  367,186  pounds  in  1881. 

Impurities. — Anise  of  commerce  is  not  unfrequently  mixed  with  earthy  matters 
resembling  the  fruit  in  color.  This  adulteration  is  readily  detected  and  the  amount 
thereof  determined,  according  to  Hager,  by  agitating  a known  weight  of  anise  for  a 
short  time  with  a saturated  solution  of  table-salt ; the  anise  will  rise  to  the  surface  of 
the  liquid,  and  after  rapidly  washing  with  water  and  drying  is  again  weighed ; earthy 
matter  and  sand  will  subside.  Accidental  admixtures  of  conium-fruit  have  been  repeat- 
edly reported.  This  is  easily  distinguished  from  anise  by  the  mericarps,  when  ripe,  being 
separate,  smooth,  grooved  upon  the  face,  with  the  ribs  prominent  and  crenate,  and  by 
being  destitute  of  oil-cells. 

Constituents. — The  fruit  contains,  according  to  Brandes  and  Reimann,  3 per  cent, 
of  volatile  oil,  3.38  per  cent,  of  fixed  oil,  some  gum,  sugar,  resin,  malates,  phosphates, 
and  other  salts.  The  volatile  oil  represents  the  medical  properties  of  the  fruit.  (See 
Oleum  Anisi.) 


Fig. 


ANTHEM  IS. 


215 


Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Anise  is  used  for  preparing  Oleum  anisi  and  Aqua  anisi. 

Off.  Prep. — Tinct.  Rhei  dulcis,  U.  S. 

Action  and  Uses. — Although  it  imparts  a peculiar  taste  to  the  milk  of  nurses,  it 
probably  does  not  augment  the  secretion  (Dolan).  Anise  is  an  aromatic  stimulant  and 
carminative;  its  oil  and  infusion  are  habitually  employed  to  relieve  flatulent  colic , and  the 
seeds  enter  into  the  composition  of  many  culinary  products  as  a condiment  which  tends  to 
render  them  less  indigestible.  It  has  been  imagined  to  have  some  special  influence  upon 
the  bronchial  tubes , modifying  their  secretions  and  promoting  expectoration.  But  all 
volatile  oils  and  resins  are  exhaled  by  the  bronchia,  and  all  have  more  or  less  repute  as 
stimulant  expectorants.  In  infantile  catarrh , when  the  acute  stage  has  passed,  infusion  of 
anise  may  be  given  with  advantage.  It  may  be  made  with  Gm.  8-12  (sij-iij)  of  the 
bruised  seeds  in  half  a pint  of  boiling  water,  and  given  in  teaspoonful  doses  to  infants 
at  the  breast.  The  dose  of  bruised  anise  is  from  Gm.  0.60-1.20  (gr.  x-xx).  According 
to  Curci,  the  anisates  of  the  alkalies  are  closely  analogous  in  their  action  to  the  salicy- 
lates (j Bull,  de  Therap.,  cviii.  140). 


ANTHEMIS,  U.  S.— Anthemis. 

Anthemidis  flores,  Br.  ; Flores  Chamomillse  romanse. — Chamomile-flowers , Roman  or 
English  chamomile , E.  ; Camomille  romaine , F.  Cod. ; Romische  Kamille , G. ; Manzamlla 
romana , Sp.  ; Camomilla  romana , F.  It. 


The  flower-heads  of  Anthemis  (Chamo- 
milla,  Godr.')  nobilis,  Linne , collected  from 
cultivated  plants.  Bentley  and  Trimen, 

Med.  Plants , 154. 

Nat.  Orel. — Compositae,  Senecionidese. 

Origin. — -A  low  perennial  plant  indige- 
nous to  Southern  and  Western  Europe  as 
far  north  as  England,  and  cultivated  in 
Germany,  Great  Britain,  France,  and  Bel- 
gium. The  small  oblique  rhizome  produces 
numerous  prostrate  or  ascending  and  radi- 
ating stems,  with  alternate  sessile  grayish- 
green  leaves,  which  are  hairy  and  twice  or 
thrice  pinnately  divided  into  acute  linear 
segments.  The  flower-heads  terminate  the 
branches,  and  appear  from  June  to  Septem- 
ber. Anthemis-flowers  have  been  dismissed 
from  the  German  Pharmacopoeia. 

Description. — The  flower-heads  of  the 
wild  plant,  which  have  a single  row  of  white 
ligulate  ray-florets  and  numerous  yellow 
tubular  disk-florets,  are  not  met  with  in  commerce.  In  the  cultivated  plant  the  tubular 
florets  are  more  or  less  changed  into  white  ligulate  florets,  and  therefore  the  heads  have 
either  a smaller  yellow  centre  or  are  entirely  white.  The  heads  are  about  f inch  (2  Cm.) 
broad,  and  consist  of  an  involucre  composed  of  numerous  imbricated  oblong  ovate  scales 
with  a scarious  margin,  of  a solid  convex  finally  conical  receptacle  with  narrow  concave 
chaff*,  and  of  numerous  white  strap-shaped  and  three-toothed  florets,  which  are  pistillate. 
The  yellow  disk-florets,  if  present,  are  tubular,  five-toothed,  and  hermaphrodite,  with  the 
two  branches  of  the  style  projecting.  The  tapering  achene  is  destitute  of  a pappus. 
Since  the  oil-glands  are  found  mainly  on  the  tubular  portion  of  the  florets,  the  so-called 
single  chamomile , with  one  or  a few  rows  of  ray-florets,  appears  to  be  better  adapted  for 
medicinal  use,  and  has  a stronger  and  more  agreeable  odor. 

Adulterations. — The  flower-heads  of  several  Compositae,  like  Anthemis  arvensis, 
Linne , Maruta  Cotula,  De  Candolle , Matricaria  Chamomilla,  Linne , Pyrethrum  Parthe- 
nium,  Linne , and  Achillea  Ptarmica,  Linne , have  been  named  as  occasional  adulterations, 
but  they  are  much  smaller  than  Roman  chamomile.  The  first-named  three  species,  not 
being  cultivated,  have  the  heads  ahvays  with  a single  row  of  ray-florets,  while  the  last 
two  are  frequently  double  in  cultivation.  Of  these,  the  feverfew  (Pyrethrum)  has  a flat 
or  merely  convex  and  nearly  naked  receptacle,  and  the  Achillea  flowers  have  shorter  and 
rounded  rays,  are  inodorous,  and  of  an  acrid  taste. 

Constituents. — According  to  J.  P.  Wyss  (1833),  chamomile-flowers  contain  volatile 


Fig.  27. 


Anthemis  nobilis,  LinnL 

Ray-  and  disk-floret,  Section  through  single  flower- 
mag.  4 diam.  head,  nat.  size. 


216 


ANTIARIS. 


oil  (see  Oleum  Anthemidis),  traces  of  tannin,  5.25  per  cent,  resin,  1.50  per  cent,  wax, 
albumen,  gum,  bitter  principle,  fixed  oil,  chlorophyll,  extractive,  and  salts.  From  the 
investigations  of  Camboulises  (1871)  it  seems  probable  that  the  bitter  taste  is  due  to 
anthemic  acid  (see  Matricaria)  ; fat,  grape-sugar,  and  6 per  cent,  of  ash  were  found  in 
the  flowers.  The  bitter  principle  is  soluble  in  water  and  alcohol. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — For  preparing  Oleum  anthemidis,  Extract,  anthemidis, 
and  Infusum  anthemidis,  Br. 

Oleum  Anthemidis  infusum,  Oleol  of  chamomile,  E. ; Huile  de  camomille,  Ft.  ; 
Gekochtes  Rbmisch-Kamillenbl,  G. — Digest  for  .2  hours  chamomile-flowers  10  parts  in 
olive  oil  100  parts  ; express  and  filter. — F.  Cod. 

Action  and  Uses. — Chamomile  is  stimulant  and  tonic.  The  former  property  is 
due  to  its  essential  oil,  the  latter  to  its  bitter  principle.  In  substance  or  strong  infusion  it 
occasions  a sense  of  warmth  in  the  stomach  ; it  expels  flatus,  improves  digestion,  does 
not  constipate,  and,  like  other  aromatic  stimulants,  is  reputed  to  possess  emmenagogue 
virtues.  In  large  doses  it  occasions  nausea,  vomiting,  diarrhoea,  pain  and  fulness  of  the 
head,  and  sometimes  a degree  of  somnolent  intoxication.  In  medicinal  doses  the  infusion 
is  tonic  if  cold,  but  emetic  if  warm. 

Chamomile  is  commonly  used  as  a mild  stimulant  tonic  to  improve  the  digestion  during 
convalescence  from  acute  diseases  and  in  many  states  of  general  debility.  It  is  par- 
ticularly indicated  when  the  gastric  digestion  is  laborious  and  accompanied  with  flatu- 
lence, and  also  when  the  latter  stage  of  the  process  is  attended  with  colic.  Hence  its 
use,  like  calumba,  in  various  diarrhoeal  conditions.  It  is  an  excellent  preventive  remedy 
for  periodical  sick  headache,  and  its  warm  infusion  is  a salutary  emetic  during  the  attack. 
It  is  reputed  also  to  be  emmenagogue , to  cure  neuralgia , and  to  diminish  chronic  suppu- 
ration. Evidently,  it  exerts  these  powers  indirectly  and  only  by  its  power  of  improving  the 
nutrition  of  the  whole  system.  In  the  same  way,  probably,  it  sometimes  cures  intermittent 
fever.  Many  bitter  tonics  have  a similar  operation,  but  cinchona  alone  exhibits  a direct 
curative  control  over  periodical  fevers.  These  remarks  apply  only  to  their  use  as  tonics ; 
camomile  and  its  associate  bitterk  often  cure  mild  intermittents  when  administered  in  the 
form  of  a hot  infusion  immediately  before  the  paroxysm.  This  is  a physiological  mode 
of  cure,  and  may  be  practised  with  the  aid  of  whatever  will  equally  well  excite  copious 
diaphoresis.  In  forms  of  malarial  fever  distinguished  by  biliary  derangement  warm 
chamomile  tea  is  often  used  to  produce  both  vomiting  and  diaphoresis,  and  thereby  not 
only  to  moderate  the  general  severity  of  the  paroxysm,  but  also  to  lessen  hepatic  conges- 
tion and  the  evils  which  ensue  thereon.  As  an  emetic  chamomile  is  peculiarly  appro- 
priate whenever  it  is  desired  to  empty  the  stomach  without  depressing  the  system,  and 
hence  in  those  numerous  cases  of  crapulous  indigestion  occurring  in  coarse  feeders  and 
in  drunkards.  It  often  will  put  an  end  to  an  attack  of  delirium  tremens  in  the  forming 
stage.  Subsequently,  nothing  excels  a cold  infusion  of  chamomile  in  repairing  the 
exhausted  condition  of  the  digestive  organs. 

Externally,  fomentations  made  with  chamomile-flowers  saturated  with  hot  water  or 
with  hot  vinegar  and  water  form  a most  soothing  application  for  local  pains , whether 
neuralgic  or  congestive,  in  intestinal  and  uterine  colic , toothache , earache , abscess,  sprains , 
etc.  It  is  believed  by  high  authorities  that  the  odor  of  chamomile  is  destructive  of  the 
itch-insect , the  gnat , etc.  Oil  of  chamomile  has  been  applied  to  painful  rheumatic  parts 
and  to  the  abdomen  in  flatulent  colic. 

Chamomile  is  never  prescribed  in  substance  except  as  a masticatory,  and  in  this 
manner  it  is  often  useful  in 'slight  dyspeptic  disorders.  The  extract  ( Br . Ph.')  is  a good 
simple  bitter  tonic  in  the  dose  of  from  Gm.  0.20-0.60  (gr.  iij-x).  A fluid  extract  is  pre- 
pared, a fluidrachm  of  which  represents  30  grains  of  chamomile.  The  oil  is  sometimes 
prescribed  internally  in  doses  of  5 or  6 drops  upon  sugar,  in  ether,  in  Hoffmann’s 
anodyne,  or  in  pills  made  with  crumb  of  bread.  An  infusion  is  made  with  half  a troy- 
ounce  of  chamomile  to  a pint  of  boiling  water.  When  cold  it  is  used  as  a tonic  in  doses 
of  Gm.  30-60  (f^j-ij)-  When  warm  it  acts  as  an  emetic  if  freely  drunken. 

ANTIARIS. — Upas  Antiar. 

Upas  antiar , Fr.,  G. 

A gum-resinous  exudation  of  Antiaris  toxicaria,  Leschenault. 

Nat.  Ord. — Urticaceae,  Artocarpeae. 

Origin. — The  upas  tree  is  one  of  the  largest  trees  of  the  forests  of  Java  and  of  some 
of  the  neighboring  islands.  When  wounded  it  yields  a milk-white  or  yellowish  exudation, 


ANTIMONII  ET  POTASSII  TARTRAS. 


217 


which  on  exposure  turns  brownish,  and  constitutes  the  principal  ingredient  of  the  Upas 
antiar,  or  Javanese  arrow-poison. 

Description. — Upas  antiar  is  reddish-brown,  of  a waxy  consistence,  and  has  an 
extremely  bitter  and  at  the  same  time  acrid  taste.  Triturated  with  water,  it  yields  an 
emulsion.  It  is  partly  soluble  in  alcohol  and  ether. 

Constituents. — It  contains  gum,  sugar,  albumen,  wax,  resin,  and  antiarin , the  poison- 
ous principle  discovered  by  Pelletier  and  Caventou  (1824).  The  latter  is  obtained  by 
exhausting  the  alcoholic  extract  with  boiling  water.  Mulder  obtained  from  the  dry  juice 
3.5  per  cent,  of  antiarin,  the  composition  of  which  is  Ci4H20O5.  It  crystallizes  from  water 
in  silvery  scales  containing  11. 8G  per  cent.  (2H20)  of  water,  and  is  soluble  in  70  parts  of 
alcohol,  yery  slightly  in  ether,  more  freely  in  dilute  acids  and  alkalies.  The  resin  is 
readily  soluble  in  ether,  sparingly  in  cold  alcohol,  and  is  not  poisonous. 

Action  and  Uses. — Under  the  name  “ upas,”  which  in  the  Malay  language  signifies 
poison,  or,  specifically,  arrow-poison,  several  quite  different  products  are  included.  Upas 
Tieute  contains  strychnine,  and  the  symptoms  it  occasions  are  more  or  less  distinctly 
tetanic,  but  Upas  antiaris,  as  well  as  its  active  principle,  antiarin,  produces  very  different 
effects.  However  introduced  into  the  system,  it  impairs  or  suspends  voluntary  move- 
ments without  causing  convulsions.  It  is  a paralyzing  poison  to  the  heart  as  well  as  to 
the  voluntary  muscles,  and  appears  to  act  directly  upon  these  organs  and  upon  the  great 
nervous  trunks,  but  not  upon  the  brain  or  spinal  marrow.  A specimen  of  arrow-poison 
has  been  found  to  contain  both  a convulsing  and  a paralyzing  agent,  which  could  be  sepa- 
rated and  both  made  to  display  their  peculiar  effects. 

We  are  unacquainted  with  any  instances  of  the  therapeutical  use  of  this  product,  but 
the  remarkable  analogy  of  its  operation  with  that  of  physostigma  would  seem  to  indicate 
its  application  to  similar  conditions. 

ANTIMONII  ET  POTASSII  TARTRAS,  TJ.  S* — Antimony  and  Potas- 
sium Tartrate. 

Antimonium  tartaratum , Antimonii potassio-tartras,  Antimonium  tartarisatum , Br. ; Tar- 
tarus stibiafus,  P.  G. — Tartarated  antimony , Tartar  emetic , E. ; Tartrate  de  potasse  et  d'anti- 
moine , Emetique , Tartre  stibie,  Fr.  ; Brechiceinstein , G.  ; Tartrato  di  antimonio  e di  potas- 
sio,  F.  It. ; Tartrato  de  potassa  y antimonio , Sp. 

Formula  2KSb0C4H406.  -f-  H20.  Molecular  weight  662.42. 

Origin. — A process  for  the  preparation  of  tartar  emetic  from  cream  of  tartar  and 
crocus  of  antimony  was  first  published  in  1631  by  Adrian  van  Mynsicht.  Glauber  (1648) 
used  flowers  of  antimony  or  antimonial  glass.  At  present  the  salt  is  generally  prepared 
with  oxychloride  or  with  pure  oxide  of  antimony.  The  British  Pharmacopoeia  recognizes 
two  synonyms  besides  the  official  title. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Oxide  of  Antimony  5 ounces ; Acid  Potassium  Tartrate  in 
fine  powder  6 ounces ; Distilled  Water  2 pints.  Mix  the  oxide  of  antimony  and  acid 
potassium  tartrate  with  sufficient  water  to  form  a paste,  and  set  aside  for  twenty-four 
hours.  Then  add  the  remainder  of  the  water  and  boil  for  a quarter  of  an  hour,  stirring 
frequently.  Filter  and  set  aside  the  clear  filtrate  to  crystallize.  Pour  off  the  mother- 
liquor,  evaporate  to  one-third,  and  set  aside,  that  more  crystals  may  form.  Dry  the  crys- 
tals on  filtering-paper  at  the  temperature  of  the  air. — Br. 

The  process  formerly  recognized  by  the  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia  consisted  in  boiling  for 
one  hour  18  fluidounces  of  water  containing  a mixture  of  2 troyounces  of  oxide  of  anti- 
mony and  2\  tioyounces  of  acid  potassium  tartrate,  water  being  added  from  time  to 
time  to  supply  the  loss  by  evaporation.  This  long-continued  application  of  heat  is  apt 
to  produce  a change  whereby  the  liquid  becomes  colored  and  a portion  of  the  salt  is 
converted  into  an  uncrystallizable  compound  ; the  mother-liquor  from  the  first  crystalliz- 
ation yields,  on  further  evaporation,  crystals  which  are  colored  and  require  to  be  recrys- 
tallized. By  the  British  process  heat  is  avoided,  except  for  a much  shorter  time,  the 
combination  being  effected  at  the  ordinary  temperature  ; or  digestion  at  a gentle  heat 
may  be  resorted  to  with  little  danger  of  inducing  the  changes  alluded  to.  The  compounds 
are  made  to  react  upon  each  other  in  the  presence  of  a little  water,  a slight  excess  of  anti- 
monous  oxide  being  used  ; and  the  subsequent  boiling  with  a larger  quantity  of  water 
mainly  aims  at  bringing  the  tartar  emetic  already  formed  into  solution,  so  that  it  may 
be  freed  by  filtration  from  the  excess  of  the  oxide  used,  and  obtained  in  crystals.  It  is 
of  importance  that  the  antimonous  oxide  should  be  free  from  oxychloride,  otherwise  the 
mother-liquor  will  become  acid,  and  more  or  less  of  the  salt  will  be  lost  by  refusing  to 


218 


AN  TIM  ON  1 1 ET  POT  A SSI  I T A ETNAS. 


crystallize.  The  acid  potassium  tartrate  should  be  free  from  calcium  tartrate  which 
would  contaminate  the  crystals  of  tartar  emetic,  necessitating  their  recrystallization,  and 
thus  occasioning  loss. 

The  reaction  between  the  antimony  trioxide  and  acid  potassium  tartrate  is  a very  simple 
one,  the  univalent  radical  (SbO),  antimonyl.  displacing  hydrogen,  with  the  formation  of 
water,  as  follows  : Sb203  + 2KHC4H406  = 2(KSb0C4H406)  -f  H20. 

Other  processes  have  been  recommended,  and  are  perhaps  followed  by  some  manufac- 
turers : they  agree  in  this,  that  an  impure  oxide  of  antimony,  which  may  be  obtained  in 
various  ways,  is  used.  While  the  trouble  of  its  purification  is  thus  avoided,  a subsequent 
loss  cannot  be  prevented,  as  explained  above.  Operating  on  a large  scale,  such  a course 
is  probably  the  cheapest,  but  for  the  pharmacist  the  use  of  pure  materials  is  by  far  more 
advantageous,  since  with  proper  and  careful  manipulation  the  entire  solution  may  be  made 
to  crystallize. 

Properties. — Antimony  and  potassium  tartrate  produces  colorless  transparent  crys- 
tals, which  have  the  form  of  a rhombic  octahedron,  become  white  and  opaque  on  exposure 
to  the  air,  and  have  a sweetish  afterward  disagreeable  strongly  metallic  taste.  In  com- 
merce it  is  usually  seen  in  the  form  of  a white  finely-granular  powder.  Heated  to  110° 
C.  (230°  F.),  the  salt  loses  its  water  of  crystallization,  2.71  per  cent.  ; at  200°  C.  (392° 
F.)  parts  with  more  water,  and  is  converted  into  metatartrate ; at  a higher  heat  it  decom- 
poses, becomes  brown  and  black,  giving  off  empyreumatic  products  having  the  odor  of 
burning  sugar,  and  finally  leaves  a black  or  gray  residue  having  an  alkaline  reaction. 
Tartar  emetic  is  soluble  in  17  parts  of  water  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  and  3 parts  of  boiling 
water  (£7.  S.  and  P.  G.)  ; in  15  parts  of  water  at  60°  F.  (. Br .). 

According  to  Brandes,  1 part  of  the  salt 

Dissolves  in  19.0,  12.6,  8.2,  7.1,  5.5,  4.8,  3.2,  3.0,  2.8  parts  of  water 

at  8.7°,  21°,  31°,  37.5°  50°,  62.5°,  75°,  87.5°,  100°  C. 

The  aqueous  solution  is  precipitated  on  the  addition  of  alcohol  in  the  form  of  a crys- 
talline powder  ; in  this  manner  a pure  powder  of  tartar  emetic  is  readily  and  most  advan- 

tageously obtained  for  pharmaceutical  purposes.  The  solution  yields  with  hydrochloric 
and  other  mineral  acids  a white  precipitate  of  an  oxy-salt  of  antimony,  which  is  soluble 
in  hydrochloric  acid,  and  does  not  occur  if  tartaric  acid  has  been  previously  added  to  the 
solution.  The  aqueous  solution,  even  if  largely  diluted,  at  once  becomes  turbid  on  the 
addition  of  a little  potassium  carbonate.  Hydrogen  sulphide  causes  an  orange-red  pre- 
cipitate, which,  when  obtained  from  20  grains  of  the  salt  after  washing  and  drying  at 
100°  C.  (212°  F.),  weighs  10.12  grains.  A solution  of  tartar  emetic  which  is  not  too 
dilute  produces  a flocculent  precipitate  on  the  addition  of  infusion  of  galls  ; an  excess  of 
the  latter  redissolves  the  precipitate.  The  salts  of  most  metals  and  earths,  being  pre- 
cipitated by  normal  tartrates,  are  incompatible  with  tartar  emetic  ; also  the  alkalies,  tan- 
nin, and  tinctures  containing  tannin. 

Tests. — Chlorides  and  sulphates,  if  present,  are  detected  in  the  solution,  previously 
acidulated  with  acetic  acid,  by  silver  nitrate  and  barium  chloride,  calcium  by  ammonium 
oxalate,  and  copper,  iron,  and  other  metals  by  potassium  ferrocyanide.  “A  1 per  cent, 
solution  of  the  salt  should  not  be  clouded  by  the  addition  of  a few  drops  of  the  reagents 
named.” — TJ.  S.  Arsenic  may  be  detected  by  carefully  heating  20  or  30  grains  of  the 
salt  until  a black  residue  remains ; on  gradually  increasing  the  temperature  to  redness  a 
garlic-like  odor  will  be  evolved.  More  delicate  tests  are  the  following:  “ If  1 Gm.  of  the  salt 
be  dissolved,  with  the  aid  of  heat,  in  hydrochloric  acid,  and  to  this  solution  1 Cc.  of  test- 
solution  of  stannous  chloride  be  added,  together  with  a small  piece  of  pure  tin-foil,  no 
turbidity  or  coloration  should  ensue  within  one  hour  (limit  of  arsenic).” — U.  S.  “ If  1 
Gm.  of  tartar  emetic,  in  powder,  be  shaken  with  3 Cc.  of  solution  of  stannous  chloride,  no 
coloration  should  ensue  within  one  hour.” — P.  G.  The  impurity  which  is  likely  to  be 
met  with  in  consequence  of  faulty  preparation  is  cream  of  tartar,  the  presence  of  which 
cannot  be  detected  by  its  behavior  to  test-paper,  since  the  solution  of  tartar  emetic  has  an 
acid  reaction  ; but  a permanent  precipitate  will  not  appear  with  potassium  carbonate  until 
after  this  impurity  has  been  neutralized.  By  dissolving  24  grains  of  the  salt  in  a fluid- 
ounce  of  warm  water  and  cooling  the  solution  to  10°  C.  (50°  F.)  it  should  remain  clear. 
A crystalline  deposit  will  occur  if  more  than  8 per  cent,  of  cream  of  tartar  is  present. 
The  U.  S.  Pli.  demands  that  if  sodium  carbonate  solution  be  added  to  crushed  crystals 
of  tartar  emetic,  no  effervescence  should  take  place,  to  show  absence  of  this  impurity.  A 
more  delicate  test,  which,  however,  does  not  indicate  the  nature  of  the  impurity,  consists 


ANTIMONII  ET  POTASSII  TARTU  AS. 


219 


in  preparing  antimony  sulphide  from  a given  weight  of  the  salt,  as  stated  above.  As  the 
U.  S.  Ph.  demands  absolute  purity  for  tartar  emetic,  the  salt  should  respond  to  the  fol- 
lowing volumetric  test:  “If  0.331  Gm.  of  the  crystallized  salt,  or  0.322  Gm.  of  the  salt 
dried  at  110°  C.  (230°  F.),  be  dissolved  in  10  Cc.  of  water,  and  about  20  Cc.  of  a cold 
saturated  solution  of  sodium  bicarbonate,  and  a little  test-solution  of  starch  added,  it  should 
require  not  less  than  20  Cc.  of  decinormal  iodine  solution  to  produce  a permanent  blue 
color  (corresponding  to  100  percent,  of  the  pure  salt).” — V.  S.  The  following  equation 
will  explain  the  reaction  taking  place  in  the  test:  2(KSb0C4II406)H20  -f-  6NaOH  -j-  X4  = 
2NaSb03  (meta-antimonate)  + 4NaI  + 2(KHC4H406)  -f-  6C02  + 3H20.  Now,  since 
506.12  (126.53  X 4)  parts  of  iodine  are  necessary  to  completely  oxidize  the  antimony 
contained  in  662.42  parts  of  crystallized  tartar  emetic,  it  follows  that  20  Cc.  of  iodine 
solution,  representing  0.25306  Gm.  of  iodine,  are  required  for  0.331  Gm.  of  the  salt,  for 
662.42  : 506.12  : : 0.331 : 0.25306. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses  and  Preparations. — Tartar  emetic  is  a convenient  test 
for  distinguishing  different  kinds  of  tannin,  some  of  which  yield  no  precipitate  with  it. 

Emplastrum  Antimonii,  U.  S.  1870 ; Emplastrum  stibiatum  s.  antimoniale. — 
Antimonial  plaster,  E. ; Emplatre  (Poix)  emetisee,  Emplatre  antimonial,  Fr. ; Brech- 
weinstein-Pflaster,  G. — Take  of  Antimony  and  Potassium  Tartrate  in  fine  powder  a troy- 
ounce  ; Burgundy  Pitch  4 troyounces.  Melt  the  pitch  by  means  of  a water-bath  and 
strain  ; then  add  the  powder,  and  stir  them  well  together  until  the  mixture  thickens  on 
cooling.  The  finely-powdered  tartar  emetic  should  not  be  added  until  the  fused  mass 
almost  begins  to  thicken  ; the  addition  of  2 or  4 drachms  of  wax  would  improve  the 
adhesive  qualities  of  the  plaster. 

Action  and  Uses. — When  tartar  emetic  in  strong  solution  or  in  ointment  is  ap- 
plied to  the  skin  it  produces  a pustular  eruption  almost  identical  in  appearance  with  that 
of  small-pox,  forming  scabs  and  leaving  indelible  scars.  If  the  skin  is  very  delicate,  it 
may  ulcerate  or  slough.  The  pustulation  is  less  apt  to  occur  in  persons  of  a naturally 
tough  integument  and  also  during  high  febrile  action.  Occasionally  the  constitutional 
operation  of  the  medicine  has  been  developed  by  its  endermic  employment.  A solution 
of  tartar  emetic  has  been  injected  into  the  veins  for  the  purpose  of  dislodging  foreign 
bodies  from  the  stomach  by  vomiting.  This  effect  has  also  followed  its  administration 
by  enema. 

Taken  internally,  even  in  such  doses  as  the  y-J-yth  of  a grain  frequently  repeated,  it 
occasions  malaise  and  nausea,  with  colic  and  looseness  of  the  bowels,  loss  of  appetite,  a 
pasty  state  of  the  mouth,  debility  and  depression,  and  sometimes  a pustular  eruption  on 
the  skin.  When  the  dose  is  large  enough  to  excite  vomiting  it  produces  a sense  of  sink- 
ing, nausea,  copious  salivation,  violent  and  prolonged  retching,  and  often  liquid  stools, 
coldness  of  the  hands  and  feet,  and  a cool  perspiration.  The  matters  vomited  usually 
contain  bile  before  the  end  of  the  operation.  If  the  salt  is  given  with  but  little  fluid, 
the  evacuations  may  be  confined  to  vomiting : if  the  liquid  is  abundant,  there  may  be 
copious  purging  without  emesis.  The  more  depressing  the  operation  of  the  medicine, 
as  indicated  by  the  preceding  symptoms,  the  more  frequent  and  feeble  does  the  pulse 
become.  In  the  case  of  a boy  whose  brain  membranes  were  exposed,  Dr.  Mary  Putnam 
Jacobi  observed  that  in  two  and  a half  hours  after  the  administration  of  a quarter  of 
a grain  of  tartar  emetic,  which  did  not  occasion  vomiting,  the  intracranial  blood-pressure 
was  diminished  and  the  walls  of  the  arteries  relaxed.  This  peculiarity  was  not  noticed 
under  the  action  of  sedative  doses  of  quinine,  and  was  produced  only  by  nauseating 
doses  of  tartar  emetic. 

In  poisoning  by  this  substance  the  symptoms  mentioned  are  greatly  intensified.  The 
patient  is  attacked  with  pain  in  the  stomach,  followed  by  incessant  retching,  prsecordia! 
cramps  and  burning  heat,  distension  of  the  epigastrium,  severe  colic,  watery  and  frequent 
stools,  dryness  of  the  throat,  difficult  deglutition,  and  salivation.  The  muscles  are  some- 
times rigid,  but  generally  relaxed  ; the  skin  pale,  cool,  and  clammy ; the  pulse  feeble  and 
at  first  infrequent,  but  subsequently  rapid  and  thready ; respiration  is  slow.  The  dose 
required  to  produce  such  symptoms  cannot  be  precisely  stated.  It  may  be  but  the  fraction 
of  a grain  which  occasions  them,  and  that  with  a fatal  result.  In  other  instances  several 
drachms  of  the  salt  have  been  taken  without  fatal  consequences.  In  one  case,  followed 
by  prompt  recovery,  the  estimated  quantity  of  the  salt  swallowed  was  170  grains  ( Med . 
Record , xxiv.  401).  Its  continued  use  generally  establishes  a tolerance  of  its  operation, 
as  was  formerly  shown  by  its  employment  in  the  treatment  of  pneumonia — a method 
which  is  now  forgotten  except  as  a monument  of  rashness  and  folly.  The  use  of  this 
method  illustrated  the  local  action  of  the  salt  by  the  inflammation  and  ulcers  which  it 


220 


ANTIMONII  ET  POTASSII  TARTRAS. 


sometimes  produced  in  the  mouth,  fauces,  oesophagus,  and  stomach.  It  is  to  be  noted 
that  after  fatal  acute  poisoning  by  tartar  emetic  gastric  lesions  are  not  always  found — 
a fact  which  further  illustrates  the  previous  proposition,  that  it  causes  death  by  its 
action  upon  the  heart  and  lungs  through  the  nervous  system,  and  not  merely  by  it's  local 
operation  on  the  stomach. 

The  idea  that  fever  must  be  combated  by  means  of  agents  which  directly  tend  to 
lessen  the  frequency  and  lower  the  force  of  the  pulse,  and  which  was  formerly  carried 
out  by  venesection  and  purgation,  and  more  recently  by  veratrum  viride,  aconite,  and 
digitalis,  was  at  one  period  sought  to  be  realized  by  means  of  tartar  emetic.  The  mis- 
chief wrought  by  the  last-named  agent  was  one  of  the  medical  scandals  of  the  sixteenth 
century,  when  it  was  employed  as  an  emeto-cathartic  ; but  it  reached  its  extreme  devel- 
opment when  Rasori,  an  Italian  theorist,  demonstrated  that  it  was  possible  to  administer 
24  grains  of  this  salt  in  as  many  hours  to  a pneumonic  patient,  and  as  much  as  2 ounces 
in  the  course  of  an  attack  of  pneumonia , without  occasioning  such  a mortality  as  might 
reasonably  have  been  expected.  Indeed,  many  of  the  most  distinguished  clinical  observ- 
ers recorded  their  eulogies  of  this  treatment,  and  if  it  were  to  be  compared  with  those 
alone  which  approach  it  in  their  perturbative  effects,  it  might  still  maintain  the  claims 
which  once  were  made  in  its  behalf.  But  since  it  has  been  demonstrated  that  the  most 
successful  by  far  of  all  methods  of  treating  pneumonia  is  simply  to  place  the  patient  in 
the  most  favorable  conditions  for  the  exertion  of  his  natural  powers  of  cure,  a discus- 
sion of  the  relative  values  of  different  active  medications  has  greatly  declined  in  interest 
as  well  as  utility.  Even  in  1882,  and  again  in  1887-88,  some  indications  existed  of  a 
desire  to  return  to  this  obsolete  method,  which  seemed  to  have  been  finally  condemned  and 
abandoned  by  the  physicians  of  all  countries.  But  we  trust  that  the  number  of  those  who 
are  acquainted  with  its  martyrology  will  prove  sufficient  to  check  this  dangerous  tendency. 
The  proposed  revival  did  not,  indeed,  contemplate  the  use  of  the  original  sedative  doses, 
but  only  the  administration  of  divided  doses  until  vomiting  and  purging  had  occurred 
three  or  four  times.  That  such  a method  may  be  useful  in  exceptionally  robust  persons 
and  in  the  early  stages  of  the  disease  may  be  admitted,  but  its  dangers,  as  well  as  its 
needlessness,  in  all  other  cases  we  cannot  for  a moment  doubt.  Even  less  than  this 
degree  of  action  has  been  deemed  sufficient  by  some  advocates  of  the  revival  of  the  use 
of  tartar  emetic  who  employed  it  like  one  of  the  antipyretics  that  happened  to  be  in 
vogue,  and  sought,  not  an  emetic  or  cathartic,  but  a sudorific  and  sedative  effect.  In 
this  manner  it  is  less  harmful,  yet  quite  superfluous. 

A confusion  produced  by  ignorance  of  the  essential  differences  between  pseudo-mem- 
branous laryngitis  and  spasmodic  laryngitis  led  to  the  use  of  tartar  emetic  in  the  former 
disease,  although  clinical  observation  and  analogy  are  strong  against  it,  for  it  tends  to 
produce  a sudden  and  extreme  prostration,  and  thereby  to  lessen  the  chances  of  the 
removal  of  the  false  membrane  by  coughing.  On  the  other  hand,  the  spasmodic  affec- 
tion, which  involves  also  a superficial  inflammatory  element,  is  beneficially  treated  by 
nauseants  and  emetics,  which  relieve  at  once  the  congestion  and  the  spasm  of  the  larynx 
and  terminate  the  attack.  It  is  not  generally  necessary  to  excite  vomiting  with  this 
object;  nanseant  doses  of  the  medicine  are  usually  sufficient.  This  statement  is  indi- 
rectly illustrated  by  the  usually  prompt  effect  of  opiates  and  revulsives  in  the  same 
affection.  Among  inflammatory  diseases  acute  bronchitis  is  most  decidedly  modified  by 
nauseant  doses  of  this  medicine,  and  even  by  smaller  ones  than  produce  any  sensible 
effect  besides  an  increase  of  the  bronchial  secretion  and  a greater  facility  of  expectora- 
tion. Acute  articular  rheumatism  was  at  one  time  treated  by  sedative  doses  of  tartar 
emetic,  but  the  evidence  in  its  favor,  which  was  originally  small,  is  less  than  nothing  at 
the  present  day.  It  has  been  said  that  nauseating  and  depressing  doses  of  it  will  some- 
times cut  short  various  local  inflammations  in  their  forming  stage,  such  as  tonsillitis, 
mammary  abscess,  hernia  humoralis,  acute  ophthalmia,  mumps,  etc.  There  is  very  little 
doubt  of  the  fact,  but  the  uncertainty  of  action  of  the  medicine  and  its  distressing  ope- 
ration have,  for  the  present  at  least,  rendered  its  use  in  these  affections  quite  excep- 
tional. Undoubtedly  such  minute  doses  as  will,  without  nauseating,  tend  to  bring  on 
diaphoresis  are  often  serviceable  in  the  forming  stage  of  such  affections.  And  it  is  pos- 
sible that  those  which  neither  nauseate  nor  depress  may,  under  particular  conditions, 
favorably  modify  inflammations  which,  although  more  or  less  chronic  as  to  duration, 
have  something  of  the  symptomatic  activity  of  an  acute  disease.  Cases  often  occur  of 
erythema , urticaria,  eczema,  and  psoriasis  which  present  these  characters,  and  which  may 
be  benefited,  and  even  cured,  by  the  persistent  use  of  small  and  repeated  doses  of  tartar 
emetic,  associated  with  a diet  of  milk  and  vegetables  and  abstinence  from  alcoholic  and 


ANT1M0NII  OXIDTJM. 


221 


other  stimulants.  (Compare  Morris,  Brit.  Med.  Jour.,  Sept.  22,  1883,  and  Spender, 
Practitioner , xxxiv.  160.)  It  has  been  employed  in  dropsy  produced  by  cold  (renal 
dropsy);  to  arrest  mercurial  salivation  ; in  acute  meningitis ; in  epilepsy , chorea,  mania, 
convulsions , mania-d-potu , etc. ; but  in  none  of  these  diseases  does  the  good  it  effects  out- 
weigh the  inconveniences  arising  from  its  depressing  and  exhausting  operation.  Its 
power  of  overcoming  rigidity  of  the  os  uteri  during  labor  has  been  attested  by  the  highest 
authorities,  but  owing  to  the  superior  advantages  of  anaesthetics  it  is  now  seldom 
resorted  to.  The  same  remark  applies  to  its  use  for  producing  relaxation  in  strangulated 
hernia  and  dislocations.  Locally,  it  has  been  applied  to  excite  inflammation  and  thereby 
destroy  nsevi,  and  also  to  produce  the  constriction  and  closure  of  varicose  veins.  The  plaster 
and  the  ointment  of  tartar  emetic,  which  are  no  longer  officinal,  were  used  to  pustulate 
the  skin.  But  the  severity  of  their  action  and  the  scars  they  frequently  left  behind 
them  have  led  to  their  disuse. 

Tartar  emetic  should  seldom  be  administered  to  the  very  young  or  very  old,  or  to  those 
who  from  any  cause  are  feeble.  If  it  produces  poisoning  by  being  swallowed,  the  stom- 
ach should  be  emptied  as  soon  as  possible  by  large  draughts  of  tepid  water  containing  or 
followed  by  vegetable  astringents,  such  as  green  tea,  galls,  tannic  acid,  etc.  Its  sedative 
effects  may  be  moderated  by  strong  coffee,  by  wine,  alcohol,  ether,  or  opium. 

The  average  emetic  dose  of  tartar  emetic  is  Gm.  0.06,  (gr.  j),  or  Gm.  0.20  (gr.  iij) 
maybe  dissolved  in  Gm.  32  (f^j.)  of  water,  of  which  one-half  maybe  administered; 
if  this  have  no  effect,  half  of  the  remainder  may  be  given  in  fifteen  minutes,  and  in 
fifteen  minutes  more  the  rest.  Warm  water  should  be  freely  administered.  As  a nau- 
seant  sudorific  the  dose  is  from  to  Gm.  0.0j-0.03  (gr.  ^~j)  every  hour  or  more.  As  a 
diaphoretic  and  expectorant  from  Gm.  0.005-0.01  (gr.  J)  may  be  given  at  intervals 
of  from  one  to  three  hours.  Pustulation  may  be  produced  by  means  of  tartar-emetic 
ointment,  by  a strong  watery  solution  applied  on  a compress,  or  by  inoculation  of  a 
paste  made  with  the  salt  and  by  means  of  a fine  lancet,  or  by  the  antimonial  plaster 
(U.  S.  P.  1870).  The  last  is  a painful  and  unmanageable  preparation. 

ANTIMONH  OXIDUM,  U.  S.,  Br. — Antimony  Oxide. 

Stibium  oxydatum,  Oxydum  antimonicum  s.  stibicum. — Antimony  Trioxide,  Antimo- 
nous  oxide,  E. ; Oxyde  J antimoine,  Fr.  ; Antimonoxyd,  G.  ; Oxido  de  antimonio,  Sp. 

Formula  Sb203.  Molecular  weight  287.08. 

Origin. — Oxide  of  antimony  in  an  impure  form  was  known  to  the  alchemists  of  the 
Middle  Ages.  The  term  flores  antimonii  was  at  first  chiefly  applied  to  the  product 
obtained  by  the  burning  of  the  black  sulphide,  but  subsequently  to  the  purer  white 
powder  resulting  from  the  burning  of  metallic  antimony  in  air.  The  mineral  valentinite 
or  white  antimony  consists  of  this  oxide ; antimony  ochre  or  cervantitb  is  antimonous- 
antimonic  oxide. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Solution  of  Chloride  of  Antimony  16  fluidounces;  Sodium 
carbonate  6 ounces;  Water  2 gallons;  Distilled  Water  a sufficiency.  Pour  the  anti- 
monial solution  into  the  water,  mix  thoroughly,  let  the  precipitate  settle,  remove  the 
supernatant  liquid  by  a siphon,  add  1 gallon  of  distilled  water,  agitate  well,  let  the  pre- 
cipitate subside,  again  withdraw  the  fluid,  and  repeat  the  process  of  affusion  of  dis- 
tilled water,  agitation,  and  subsidence.  Add  now  the  sodium  carbonate,  previously  dis- 
solved in  2 pints  of  distilled  water,  leave  them  in  contact  for  half  an  hour,  stirring 
frequently,  collect  the  deposit  on  a calico  filter,  and  wash  with  boiling  distilled  water 
until  the  washings  cease  to  give  a precipitate  with  a solution  of  silver  nitrate  acidu- 
lated by  nitric  acid.  Lastly,  dry  the  product  at  a heat  not  exceeding  100°  C.  (212° 
F.)  — Br. 

The  process  of  the  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia  (1870)  was  essentially  the  same  as  the  above, 
except  that  directions  were  also  given  for  preparing  a solution  of  antimonous  chloride 
by  digesting  black  antimony  sulphide  4 parts  with  hydrochloric  acid  18  parts.  By  this 
treatment  Sb2S3  + 6HC1  yields  2SbCl3,  which  remains  dissolved  in  an  excess  of  the  acid, 
^.nd  3H2S,  which  escapes ; the  solution  contains  also  ferrous  chloride,  resulting  from  the 
iron  usually  contained  in  the  black  antimony.  The  subsequent  step  of  adding  nitric 
acid  was  an  unnecessary  complication  ; it  will  oxidize  any  hydrogen  sulphide  that  may 
have  remained  in  solution  to  sulphuric  acid,  and  convert  the  ferrous  into  ferric  chloride; 
but  the  former  can  be  expelled  more  expeditiously  and  with  less  cost  by  boiling  the 
solution,  and  the  ferrous  chloride  will  not  be  precipitated  on  the  addition  of  water,  which 
will  also  retain  in  solution  the  chlorides  of  the  other  metals  occasionally  present.  On 


222 


ANTIMONII  OXIDUM. 


adding  the  solution  to  water,  antimonous  oxychloride,  or  powder  of  Algaroth , is  pre- 
cipitated and  obtained  of  the  composition  2SbCl3.5Sb203.  By  washing  this  with  water  the 
chlorine  is  gradually  but  not  completely  removed  as  hydrochloric  acid,  a more  basic 
oxychloride  remaining.  The  conversion  into  the  oxide  is  more  readily  effected  by  an 
alkali  or  alkali  carbonate,  for  which  purpose  ammonia  may  be  used  or  sodium  carbonate, 
as  directed  above.  In  the  one  case  ammonium  chloride,  in  the  other  case  sodium  chlo- 
ride and  carbon  dioxide,  are  formed,  antimonous  oxide  remaining  behind  in  both 
instances ; 2SbCl35Sb203  + 3Na2C03  yields  6Sb203  + 6NaCl  + 3C02.  The  resulting  anti- 
monous oxide  must  be  dried  at  a not  too  elevated  temperature,  to  avoid  the  formation 
of  higher  oxides  of  antimony.  A contamination  with  arsenous  acid,  resulting  from  the 
arsenic  sulphide  frequently  present  in  the  black  antimony,  need  not  be  apprehended ; 
the  greater  part  of  it  will  be  expelled  during  the  first  part  of  the  operation  as  arsenic 
chloride,  and  what  little  may  be  left  in  the  liquid  will  remain  in  solution  on  precipitating 
with  water.  The  large  quantity  of  noxious  gases  given  off  renders  it  necessary  to 
operate  under  a hood  or  to  dispose  of  the  gases  by  consuming  them  in  a furnace. 

On  heating  metallic  antimony  in  a loosely-covered  crucible  the  metal  burns  at  a red 
heat  when  in  contact  with  air  to  antimonous  oxide,  and  this  sublimes  in  glossy,  trans- 
parent, or  white  needles,  intermixed  with  octahedrons ; this  product  was  formerly  distin- 
guished as  fores  antimonn  ( flowers  of  antimony). 

Properties. — Antimonous  oxide  is  a dense  white  or  grayish-white  powder,  which  is 
very  sparingly  soluble  in  water,  insoluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  and  nitric  acid,  but  dissolves 
readily  in  hydrochloric  acid  ; it  is  also  soluble  in  a warm  solution  of  tartaric  acid  or  in  a 
boiling  solution  of  acid  potassium  tartrate.  It  is  without  odor  and  taste,  and  when 
heated  in  closed  vessels  turns  yellow,  and  on  cooling*  becomes  white  again  ; melts  at  a 
dull  red  heat  to  a yellowish  liquid,  which  on  cooling  congeals  to  a crystalline  mass  of  a 
pearly  color,  and  at  a full  red  heat  sublimes  in  crystals,  as  stated  above  ; slow  sublimation 
gives  mainly  octahedrons,  while  rhombic  prisms  are  obtained  by  rapid  heating.  But 
when  the  oxide  is  slowly  heated  in  contact  with  air  it  is  converted  into  grayish,  infusible, 
and  non-volatile  tetroxide,  or  antimonous-antimonic  oxide , Sb204  or  Sb203.Sb205.  When 
heated  with  soda  upon  charcoal  by  means  of  the  blowpipe,  very  brittle  metallic  globules 
are  obtained.  Its  solution  in  hydrochloric  acid  dropped  into  water  yields  a white  precip- 
itate, and  this  is  at  once  changed  to  orange-red  by  hydrogen  sulphide. 

Tests. — A solution  of  antimony  oxide  in  hydrochloric  acid,  diluted  with  water  to 
incipient  permanent  turbidity,  will  yield  with  hydrogen  sulphide  a precipitate  which 
when  thoroughly  washed  must  be  perfectly  soluble  in  ammonium  sulphide  solution,  to 
indicate  the  absence  of  lead  and  copper.  In  a dilute  (1  per  cent.)  aqueous  solution 
made  with  aid  of  tartaric  acid,  sulphates  would  be  detected  by  barium  chloride  solution, 
chlorides  by  silver  nitrate,  and  iron  and  other  metals  by  potassium  ferrocyanide.  The 
allowable  limit  of  arsenic  may  be  detected  by  adding  1 Cc.  of  stannous  chloride  test- 
solution  and  a piece  of  pure  tin-foil  to  a solution  of  1 Gm.  of  the  oxide  in  hydrochloric 
acid  ; no  turbidity  or  coloration  should  ensue  within  one  hour. — U.  S. 

Pharmceutical  Uses. — Oxide  of  antimony  is  employed  in  preparing  tartar  emetic, 
and  is  a constituent  of  Pulv.  antimonialis,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Other  oxides  of  antimony,  more  or  less  pure  or  combined  with  antimony  sulphide, 
were  formerly  employed  in  medicine,  and  are  occasionally,  though  very  rarely,  called  for. 
When  black  antimony  sulphide  is  gradually  heated  to  redness  in  contact  with  the  air,  it 
is  partly  oxidized  to  antimonous  antimonate,  Sb203  Sb205,  and  constitutes  then  an  ash- 
gray  powder  known  as  cinis  antimonn  ( antimony  ash).  When  this  is  fused  with  a little 
black  antimony,  a transparent  garnet-red  mass  known  as  vitrum  antimonn  (a.ntimonial 
glass)  is  obtained.  When  a mixture  of  equal  parts  of  black  antimony  and  potassium 
nitrate  is  deflagrated  by  igniting  it  in  small  quantities,  it  yields  hepar  antimonn  ( liver  of 
antimony ),  and  when  this  is  exhausted  with  water  to  remove  potassium  sulphate  and 
sulphantimonate  crocus  of  antimony  is  left  behind,  which  is  mainly  a mixture  of  antimony 
oxide  and  sulphide.  Antimonium  diaphoreticum  ( diaphoretic  antimony)  is  prepared  like 
liver  of  antimony,  except  that  more  (2  parts)  of  potassium  nitrate  is  used,  so  that  the 
preparation  contains,  besides  antimony  oxide,  antimonate,  sulphate,  nitrate,  and  nitrite  of 
potassium  in  varying  proportions.  By  washing  this  with  water  the  residue  consists 
mainly  of  jwfassium  antimonate , which  is  recognized  by  the  French  Codex.  The  other 
preparations  described  were  formerly  employed  in  medicine. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  oxide  of  antimony  is  rarely  used  in  medicine.  It  is 
stated  to  possess  the  general  properties  of  antimonial  preparations,  with  a less  tendency 
to  excite  nausea  and  vomiting,  owing  to  its  inferior  solubility.  Its  dose  is  from  Gm. 
0,10-0.20  (gr.  ij-iv). 


ANTIMONII  SVLPHIDTJM. 


223 


ANTIMONII  SULPHIDUM,  U.  Antimony  Sulphide. 

Antimonii  sulphuretum,  U.  S.  1870  ; Antimonium  nigrum,  Br.  1867  ; Stibium  sulfuratum 
nigrum,  P.  G.  ; Antimonium  crudum,  Sulfuretum  stibicum.— Black  (crude)  antimony , Anti- 
mony trisulphide,  Antimonous  sulphide , E.  ; Sul/ure  d'antimoine , Antimoine  cru,  A.  sul- 
fure,  Fr. ; Sch icefelspiessgla nz,  Spicssglanz,  Schicefelantimon,  G. ; Trisulfuro  di  antimonio, 
F.  It.  ; Sulfuro  de  antimonio,  Sp. 

Formula  Sb_,S3.  Molecular  weight  335.14. 

Origin. — It  is  found  native  as  stibnite,  gray  antimony  ore.  or  black  antimony,  and 
associated  with  galena,  iron  pyrites,  quartz,  and  heavy  spar,  in  various  parts  of  Europe, 
Borneo,  New  Brunswick,  Nevada,  and  in  Sevier  co.,  Ark.  It  was  known  to  the  ancients 
as  “ stimmi,”  and  was  early  employed  as  an  external  remedy  in  cutaneous  diseases  and 
for  darkening  the  eyebrows  and  eyelashes.  From  the  infusible  ores  with  which  it  is 
associated  it  is  freed  by  fusion  in  pots  arranged  in  such  a manner  that  the  fused  sul- 
phide runs  off  into  earthen  vessels,  where  it  cools.  It  is  afterward  powdered. 

Properties. — Thus  purified,  it  is  known  in  commerce  as  crude  antimony,  and  con- 
tains variable  small  quantities  of  iron,  and  often  traces  of  arsenic,  lead,  and  copper,  all  in 
the  state  of  sulphides.  From  the  shape  of  the  pots  in  which  it  has  cooled  it  usually  is  in 
the  form  of  blunt  cones,  which  are  of  a blackish  color  externally,  and  when  broken  steel- 
gray,  of  a metallic  lustre  and  a radiated  crystalline  texture,  friable,  soft,  and  leaving  a 
black  mark  upon  harder  bodies.  Its  specific  gravity  varies  between  4.6  and  4.7,  it  being 
but  little  lighter  than  black  oxide  of  manganese,  from  which  it  is  readily  distinguished 
by  the  ready  fusibility  of  splinters  of  antimony  sulphide  when  held  in  the  flame  of  a 
candle.  It  is  inodorous  and  tasteless,  and  insoluble  in  simple  solvents.  At  a temperature 
below  a red  heat  it  fuses  to  a dark  brown  liquid.  It  is  frequently  seen  as  a heavy  black 
or  grayish-black  and  somewhat  shining  powder  This,  “ when  boiled  with  10  parts  of 
hydrochloric  acid,  dissolves  without  leaving  more  than  1 per  cent,  of  residue.  The  solu- 
tion, completely  deprived  of  hydrogen  sulphide  by  boiling,  when  added  to  water  gives  a 
white  precipitate  which  is  soluble  in  a solution  of  tartaric  acid.  After  separation  of  the 
precipitate  by  filtration  the  filtrate  gives  an  orange-red  precipitate  with  hydrogen  sul- 
phide test-solution.” — U.  S. 

Purification. — Antimonii  sulphidum  purificatum,  U.  S.  ; Antimonium  nigrum 
purificatum,  Br. ; Purified  antimony  trisulphide,  Purified  black  antimony,  E. — Sulfure 
d’antimoine  depure,  Fr.  ; Gereinigtes  Schwefelantimon,  G. — Antimony  sulphide  100  Gm. ; 
Ammonia  Water  50  Cc.  ; Water  a sufficient  quantity.  Reduce  the  antimony  sulphide 
to  a very  fine  powder.  Separate  the  coarser  particles  by  elutriation,  and,  when  the 
finely-divided  sulphide  has  been  deposited,  pour  off  the  water,  add  the  ammonia-water, 
and  macerate  for  five  days,  agitating  the  mixture  frequently.  Then  let  the  powder  settle, 
pour  off  the  ammonia  water,  and  wash  the  residue  by  repeated  affusion  and  decantation 
of  water.  Finally,  dry  the  product  by  the  aid  of  heat. — U.  S.  The  Br.  P.  process  is 
identical  with  this. 

Similar  processes  have  been  long  in  use  with  the  object  of  freeing  antimonous  sul- 
phide from  arsenic  ; but  it  has  long  since  been  proven  that  antimonous  sulphide  is  like- 
wise dissolved  to  a large  extent ; and  Garot  has  shown  that  the  ammoniacal  liquid,  when 
evaporated,  leaves  a red  residue  which  contains  very  little  arsenic.  Arsenous  sulphide 
is,  however,  freely  soluble  in  ammonium  carbonate,  which  dissolves  but  little  antimonous 
sulphide.  The  process  devised  by  Hager  is  as  follows  : Mix  in  a high  vessel  1000  parts 
of  levigated  antimony  sulphide  with  100  parts  of  ammonia-water,  sp.  gr.  .960,  and  suf- 
ficient warm  water  to  permit  the  mixture  being  readily  stirred  ; digest  for  a day  at 
between  30°  and  40°  C.  (86°  and  104°  F.),  add  50  parts  of  official  ammonium  carbonate, 
again  digest  with  frequent  agitation  for  forty-eight  hours,  then  dilute  with*  water,  and 
wash  thoroughly.  It  forms  a dark-gray  or  grayish-black  lustreless  powder  having  the 
properties  mentioned  above. 

Tests. — Commercial  antimony  sulphide  is  sometimes  adulterated  with  coal-dust,  or  mix- 
tures of  powdered  coal  and  chalk  are  soid  in  place  of  it.  The  latter  effervesce  briskly  with 
dilute  hydrochloric  acid,  forming  a solution  containing  calcium  chloride.  “ If  2 Gm.  of  the 
salt  be  mixed  and  cautiously  ignited  in  a porcelain  crucible  with  8 Gm.  of  pure  sodium 
nitrate,  and  the  fused  mass  boiled  with  25  Cc.  of  water,  there  will  remain  a residue  which 
should  be  white  or  nearly  so,  and  not  yellowish  nor  brownish  (absence  of  other  metallic 
sulphides).  On  boiling  the  filtrate  w7ith  an  excess  of  nitric  acid  until  no  more  nitrous 
vapors  are  evolved,  then  dissolving  in  it  0.1  Gm.  of  silver  nitrate,  filtering  again  if  neces- 


224 


ANTIMONTUM  SULPHUR  A TUM. 


sary,  and  cautiously  pouring  a few  drops  of  water  of  ammonia  on  top,  not  more  than  a 
whi&e  cloud,  but  no  red  nor  reddish  precipitate,  should  appear  at  the  line  of  contact  of 
the  two  liquids  (absence  of  more  than  about  0.1  per  cent,  of  arsenic).” — IT.  S. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses.— Antimony  trisulphide,  being  the  commonest  and  cheap- 
est antimony  ore,  is  employed  for  preparing  the  metal  and  as  the  source  of  all  compounds 
of  antimony. 

Action  and  Uses. — Sulphide  of  antimony  is  seldom  employed  in  medicine.  It 
was  formerly  prescribed  along  with  drastic  cathartics  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  6.30-1.00 
(gr.  v-xv). 

ANTIMONIUM  SULPHURATUM,  U.  8 Br.— Sulphurated  Antimony. 

Antimonii  oxy sulphur etum  (Lond.)  ; Antimonii  sulphuretum  aureum  (Edinb.)  ; Antimonii 
sulpliuretum  prsecipitatum  (Dubl.),  Br. — Kermes  mineral , E. ; Sulfure  di antimoine  pre- 
cipite , Fr.  ; Gefalltes  Schwefelantimon , G.  ; Sidfuro  de  antimonio  liidratado.  Sp. 

Chiefly  antimonous  sulphide  (Sb2S3 ; 335.14),  with  a very  small  amount  of  antimo- 
nous  oxide. — U.  S. 

Origin. — Both  antimonial  kermes  and  golden  sulphur  appear  to  have  been  first 
obtained  by  Basilius  Valentinus  in  the  fifteenth  century.  The  latter  was  called  sulphur 
auratum  by  Quercetanus  (1603).  The  former  was  prepared  by  Glauber  by  dissolving 
black  antimony  in  potash  and  cooling,  and  was  lauded  by  Simon  (1719)  under  the  name 
of  alkermes  minerale.  Numerous  processes  for  obtaining  these  preparations  have  been 
published,  nearly  all  of  them  resulting  in  mixtures  of  one  or  both  sulphides  of  antimony 
with  more  or  less  antimonous  oxide.  The  U.  S.  and  Br.  Pharmacopoeias  now  recognize 
a nearly  pure  Sb2S3,  which,  from  the  synonyms  given  by  the  Br.  Phar.  of  1867,  may  also 
be  dispensed  as  golden  sulphur.  The  German  Pharmacopoeia  recognizes  only  pure 
Sb2S, 

Preparation. — Purified  Antimony  Sulphide  in  very  fine  powder  100  Gm. ; Solution 
of  Soda  1200  Cc. ; Distilled  Water,  Diluted  Sulphuric  Acid,  each  a sufficient  quantity. 
Mix  the  antimony  sulphide  with  the  solution  of  soda  and  3000  Cc.  of  distilled  water, 
and  boil  the  mixture  over  a gentle  fire  for  two  hours,  constantly  stirring,  and  occasionally 
adding  distilled  water,  so  as  to  preserve  the  same  measure.  Strain  the  liquid  imme- 
diately through  a double  muslin  strainer,  and  drop  into  it,  while  yet  hot,  diluted  sul- 
phuric acid  so  long  as  it  produces  a precipitate.  Wash  the  precipitate  with  hot  distilled 
water  until  the  washings  are  at  most  but  very  slightly  clouded  by  test-solution  of  barium 
chloride,  then  dry  the  precipitate  and  rub  it  to  a fine  powder. — U.  S.  If  avoirdupois 
weight  be  used,  3^  oz.  of  antimony  sulphide  will  require  401  fluidounces  of  solution  of 
soda  and  61  pints  of  distilled  water. 

The  British  Pharmacopoeia  follows  a similar  process,  but  employs  a weaker  soda  solu- 
tion and  a larger  amount  of  antimony  sulphide,  the  proportion  being  4|  Imperial 
pints  of  the  former  to  10  ounces  of  the  latter,  mixed  with  10  ounces  of  sublimed 
sulphur. 

Amorphous  antimony  sulphide  dissolves  readily  in  cold  alkaline  liquids,  but  for 
effecting  the  solution  of  the  crystalline  sulphide  the  application  of  heat  is  required.  The 
solution  contains  both  sulphantimonite  and  antimonite  of  the  alkali,  the  formation  of 
which  is  seen  from  the  following  equation  : Sb2S3  -f-  4NaOH  = NaSb02  (meta-antimonite) 
+ Na3SbS3  (ortho-sulphantimonite).  On  adding  sulphuric  acid  both  the  compounds 
named  are  decomposed  and,  antimonous  sulphide  is  precipitated  without  the  evolution  of 
hydrogen  sulphide  : NaSb02  -f  Na3SbS3  + 2H2S04  = Sb2S3  + 2Na2S04  + 2H20.  The 
precipitate,  however,  is  likely  to  retain  a portion  of  undecomposed  antimonite,  which,  if 
remaining  in  the  hot  acidulated  liquid,  is  gradually  decomposed  ; to  ensure  this  decom- 
position, Liebig  suggested  to  pour  the  hot  alkaline  solution  into  an  excess  of  diluted  sul- 
phuric acid  and  to  boil  the  moist  precipitate  with  a fresh  portion  of  such  acid. 

1 part  of  sodium  hydroxide  is  theoretically  able  to  form  sodium  antimonite  and  sulphan- 
timonite with  4.2  parts  of  Sb2S3.  In  practice,  however,  a much  smaller  amount  of  the 
sulphide  should  be  used,  the  pharmacopoeias  ordering  1.66  (£7  Si)  and  2.55  (Br.)  parts. 
Using  larger  proportions  would  result  in  the  formation  of  sodium  sulphantimonate  and 
antimonate,  and  finally  of  antimonic  sulphide,  Sb2S5.  The  reaction  is  likewise  influenced 
by  the  concentration  of  the  alkaline  liquid  and  by  its  exposure  to  air.  The  adopted  pro- 
cesses should  therefore  be  strictly  followed  in  order  to  obtain  as  nearly  as  possible  uniform 
results. 

Properties  and  Tests. — Sulphurated  antimony  is  a reddish-brown  (orange-red, 


ANTIMONIUM  SULPHUR  A TUM. 


oo 


Br.)  powder,  without  odor  and  taste,  and  insoluble  in  water  and  other  simple  solvents. 
Heated  in  a dry  test-tube,  it  emits  moisture  and  leaves  a black  residue.  When  heated 
with  ten  times  its  weight  of  official  hydrochloric  acid  it  is  nearly  all  dissolved,  with 
evolution  of  hydrogen  sulphide.  The  residue,  after  having  been  washed  and  dried, 
burns  with  the  characters  of  sulphur  and  leaves  a scanty  ash.  The  solution  in  hydro- 
chloric acid,  when  added  to  water,  deposits  a white  powder.  The  liquid  filtered  from  this 
powder  yields  an  orange-red  precipitate  with  hydrogen  sulphide.  Water  in  which  the 
preparation  has  been  boiled  should  not  yield  a white  precipitate  with  ammonium  oxalate. 
A mixture  of  1 part  of  sulphurated  antimony  and  20  parts  of  hot  water,  well  shaken, 
should  yield  a filtrate  which  is  neutral  to  test-paper,  and  which  should  not  be  rendered 
more  than  slightly  opalescent  by  barium  chloride  test-solution  (limit  of  sulphate)  or 
silver  nitrate  test-solution  (limit  of  chloride)  ( U.  S .).  The  limit  allowed  by  the  Phar- 
macopoeia for  arsenic  is  the  same  as  prescribed  in  the  case  of  purified  black  antimony. 
(See  page  223.)  The  precipitate  which  falls  wThen  a solution  of  60  grains  of  sulphurated 
antimony  in  sufficient  hydrochloric  acid  is  dropped  into  water  should,  after  washing  and 
drying,  weigh  not  less  than  51  grains,  or  85  per  cent.  (£7!  $.).  Boiled  in  water  with 
acid  potassium  tartrate,  the  resulting  solution  is  precipitated  orange-red  with  hydrogen 
sulphide,  thus  showing  the  presence  of  antimonous  oxide.  Oxidized  with  nitric  acid,  60 
grains  give  a white  residue  of  40  grains  (BrS). 


Allied  Compounds. — 1.  Antimonii  oxysulphuretum,  U.  S.  1870. — Stibium  sulfuratum 
rubeum.  P.  G.  1872;  Sulphur  stibiatum  rubeum,  Kermes  minerale,  Alkermes  aurificum  min- 
erale. — Oxysulphuret  of  antimony,  Kermes  mineral,  E. ; Sulfure  d’antimoine  hydrate,  Kermes 
mineral,  Poudre  des  Chartreux,  Fr. ; Mineralkermes,  G. 

The  name  “ Kermes  mineral”  is  now  applied  by  the  U.  S.  Ph.  to  the  official  sulphurated  anti- 
mony. (See  above.) 

Composition,  a mixture  of  Sb2S3  and  Sb203. 

This  was  prepared  by  boiling  for  one  hour  1 part  of  black  antimony  with  250  parts  of  water 
containing  23  parts  of  sodium  carbonate,  filtering  and  cooling  ; after  twenty-four  hours  the  pre- 
cipitate was  collected,  washed  with  cold  water  previously  boiled,  and  dried.  The  process  was 
proposed  by  Cluzel,  and  received  the  prize  of  the  Paris  Pharmaceutical  Society  in  1806.  The 
reaction  is  similar  to  that  described  above,  except  that  carbon  dioxide  is  given  off.  On  cooling, 
a mixture  of  Sb2S3  and  Sb203  is  deposited,  varying  with  the  relative  proportion  of  the  sulphide 
and  carbonate,  and  with  the  concentration  of  the  liquid.  The  solution  decanted  from  the  pre- 
cipitate, on  being  boiled  with  a fresh  portion  of  antimonous  sulphide,  yields  again  a precipitate 
of  similar  appearance,  but  containing  a much  larger  amount  of  oxide.  Sonnenberg  obtained 
by  four  successive  boilings  kermes  containing  8,  33,  43,  and  67  per  cent,  of  antimonous 
oxide. 

Oxysulphuret  of  antimony  is  a purplish-brown,  tasteless  powder,  soft  and  velvety  to  the  touch, 
wholly  and  readily  soluble  in  hot  hydrochloric  acid,  with  evolution  of  hydrogen  sulphide,  and 
partly  soluble  in  a hot  solution  of  potassa,  leaving  a residue  soluble  in  tartaric  acid.  On  exam- 
ination with  the  microscope  it  is  found  to  be  a mixture  of  amorphous  globules  of  the  sulphide 
with  minute  transparent  prisms  of  antimony  oxide,  which  latter  is  dissolved  by  solution  of  tar- 
taric acid. 

2.  Antimonii  pentasulphidum. — Antimonii  sulphuretum  aureum  s.  prsecipitatum,  Stibium 
sulfuratum  aurantiacum,  P.  G. ; Sulphur  stibiatum  aurantiacum,  Sulphur  auratum  antimonii. — 
Antimonic  sulphide,  Golden  sulphuret  of  antimony,  Golden  sulphur,  E. ; Soufre  dore  d’antimoine, 
F. ; Goldschwefel,  Sulfaurat,  G. 


This  was  originally  prepared  by  precipitating  an  aqueous  solution  of  liver  of  antimony  (see 
Antimonii  OxiDUM)with  an  acid,  and  contained,  besides  Sb2S5,  also  variable  amounts  of  Sb2S3 
and  Sb203.  Instead  of  such  mixtures  the  German  and  other  pharmacopoeias  now  recognize  the 
pure  antimonial  sulphide,  which  is  prepared  as  follows : 

A solution  of  70  parts  of  crystallized  sodium  carbonate  in  250  parts  of  water  is  boiled,  and 
mixed  with  milk  of  lime  containing  26  parts  of  lime  and  80  parts  of  water.  36  parts  of  levi- 
gated antimony  sulphide  and  7 parts  of  sublimed  sulphur  are  added,  and  the  whole  boiled  until 
the  gray  color  has  disappeared,  when  the  liquid  is  filtered  and  crystallized.  24  parts  of  these 
crystals,  which,  from  the  discoverer  Schlippe  (1821),  are  known  as  Schlippe' s salt , and  have  the 
composition  Xa3SbS4  4-  9II20,  are  dissolved  in  700  parts  of  water,  and  added  to  a mixture  of  9 
parts  of  sulphuric  acid  and  200  parts  of  water.  The  precipitate,  having  the  composition  Sb2S5, 
is  washed  and  dried.  The  reactions  involved  in  this  process  may  be  illustrated  by  the  following 
equations:  (1)  4Sb2S3  + 9(Xa2CO310H2O)  4-  S8  + 9CaO  = 5(Xa3SbS49H20)  -f  3(NaSbO„)  4- 
9CaC03  + 45H20.  (2)  2(Xa3SbS49II20)  -f  3H2S04  = Sb2S5  + 3(Xa2S04)  4-  311., S + 1811,0. 

It  is  an  orange-colored,  inodorous,  and  tasteless  powder,  which  on  being  slowly  heated  in  a 
test-tube,  gives  a sublimate  of  sulphur,  leaving  a residue  of  black  antimonous  sulphide  ; at  a red 
heat  it  is  completely  volatilized. 

The  absence  of  arsenic  is  indicated  if  1 part  of  the  powder  be  boiled  with  100  parts  of  water 
to  10  parts,  when  cool  filtered  and  evaporated  to  1 part,  the  addition  of  3 parts  of  stannous 
chloride  solution  not  causing  any  coloration  within  one  hour.  The  limits  of  sulphate  and 
15 


226 


ANTIPYRINUM. 


chloride  are  tested  for  bj  adding  silver  nitrate  and  barium  nitrate  solutions  respectively  to  water 
which  has  been  shaken  with  the  powder ; no  turbidity  should  occur  immediately. — P.  G. 

Action  and  Uses. — Sulphurated  antimony  and  the  oxysulphuret  have  essentially 
the  same  medicinal  properties,  and  may  be  prescribed  in  the  same  doses.  The  former  is 
very  rarely  employed,  and  kermes  mineral,  although  it  does  not  differ  essentially  from 
other  antimonials  in  its  action,  is  generally  described  as  being  “ alterative,  diaphoretic, 
and  emetic.”  Its  dose  as  an  alterative  may  be  stated  to  be  Gm.  0.05-0.10  (gr.  j-ij) 
twice  a day,  and  as  an  emetic  from  Gm.  0.30—1.20  (gr.  v-xx). 

ANTIPYRINUM,  JP.  G.— Antipyrine. 

Phenazonum , Br.  Add.  ; Phenazone , Metliozine , Analgesine , Dimethyl-phenylpyrazolon , 
Dehydrodimethyl-plienylpyrazine , E. ; Antipyrine , Anodynine , Parody  ne,  Fr.  ; Antipyrin, 
G. ; Antipirina , F.  It. 

Formula  CGH5N.CO.CH.NCH3.CCH3  = CnH12N20.  Molecular  weight  187.65. 

Origin  and  Preparation. — Antipyrine  was  first  prepared  by  L.  Knorr  (1883), 
and  afterward  introduced  to  the  medical  profession  by  Filehne.  When  aniline  hydro- 
chloride or  sulphate  is  treated  with  sodium  nitrite,  diazobenzene  hydrochloride  or  sulphate 
will  be  formed,  and  if  this  salt  be  further  treated  with  reducing  reagents  (alkali  sulphite 
and  stannous  chloride),  the  corresponding  salt  of  phenylhydrazine  will  be  obtained  ; from 
this  the  ba-se  phenylhydrazine,  C6H5HN.NII2,  is  set  free  by  means  of  caustic  soda.  By 
acting  on  phenylhydrazine  in  the  cold  with  di-acetic  ether,  Knorr  obtained  phenylhydra- 
zine di-acetic  ether,  with  elimination  of  water,  the  former  an  oily  liquid,  which  when 
heated  to  100°  C.  parts  with  the  elements  of  alcohol  and  is  converted  into  phenylmethyl- 
pyrazolon  (formerly  called  methyloxychinizin).  Its  formula  is  C10H10N2O,  containing 
still  1 atom  of  displaceable  hydrogen  ; it  possesses  both  acid  and  basic  properties,  but  loses 
the  former  when  heated  with  methyl  iodide  in  the  presence  of  methylic  alcohol,  and  is 
converted  into  phenyldimethyl  pyrazolon  iodide.  The  mass  is  next  decolorized  by  boil- 
ing with  sulphurous  acid  solution,  the  alcohol  is  distilled  off,  and  on  the  addition  of  strong 
solution  of  soda  the  base  is  separated  as  a heavy  oil,  and  recrystallized  from  toluene  or 
ether.  y • 

Recently  (1891)  a new  process  has  been  patented  for  manufacturing  antipyrine  under 
the  name  of  dehydrodimethylphenylpyrazine.  It  consists  of  three  successive  operations, 
as  follows  : 1st.  Equivalent  quantities  of  a compound  ether,  containing  beta-bromo  or 
chlorobutyric  acid,  and  of  phenylhydrazine,  are  dissolved,  the  solution  being  rendered 
slightly  alkaline,  and  then  gently  heated  on  a steam-bath  until  the  odor  of  the  compound 
ether  has  disappeared.  On  pouring  the  product  into  water  methylphenylpyrazine  sepa- 
rates. 2d.  The  dried  product  is  dissolved  in  benzene,  and  then  shaken  with  some  slow 
oxidizing  agent,  such  as  mercuric  oxide.  The  result  is  dehydromethylphenylpyrazine. 
3d.  This  product  is  finally  dissolved  in  methylic  alcohol,  and  heated  with  methyl 
iodide  to  100°  C.,  which  results  in  the  formation  of  dehydrodimethylphenylpyrazine 
or  antipyrine.  (Compare  above.)  Still  more  recently  (1892),  Knorr  and  Duden  have 
announced  that  antipyrine  may  also  be  produced  by  heating  a mixture  of  equal  mole- 
cules of  crotonic  acid  and  phenylhydrazine  in  an  oil-bath  to  115°  C. ; as  the  reaction 
slackens  the  heat  is  gradually  increased  to  160°  C.,  where  it  is  kept  until  a sample  of  the 
mass  when  rubbed  with  a glass  rod  solidifies.  The  new  body,  phenylmethylpyrazoli- 
done,  is  then  further  treated  with  oxidizing  agents  to  convert  it  into  phenylmethylpy  ra- 
zolon,  from  which  antipyrine  is  prepared  as  stated  above. 

Properties. — Antipyrine  crystallizes  readily  in  laminae,  or  from  water  in  rhombic 
prisms.  The  commercial  article  is  a voluminous  crystalline  white  or  whitish  powder  ; it 
is  almost  inodorous,  and  has  a mild  bitter  taste.  At  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  it  dissolves  in  about 
two-thirds  its  weight  of  water,  in  about  1 part  of  alcohol  or  chloroform,  and  in  about 
50  parts  of  ether,  and  is  freely  soluble  in  benzene,  but  slightly  soluble  in  benzin.  The 
aqueous  solution  yields  precipitates  with  basic  lead  acetate,  mercuric  chloride,  and  most 
reagents  for  alkaloids,  and  reduces  Fehling’s  solution.  2 Cc.  of  a 1 per  cent,  solution 
acquire  with  2 drops  of  fuming  nitric  acid  a green  color,  changing  to  red  on  the  addition 
of  another  drop  of  the  acid  to  the  previously  boiled  liquid.  One  drop  of  ferric  chloride 
solution,  added  to  2 Cc.  of  a y^th  per  cent,  solution  of  antipyrine,  causes  a deep-red 
color,  changing  to  pale  yellow  on  the  addition  of  10  drops  of  sulphuric  acid.  The  solu- 
tion of  antipyrine  in  water  should  have  a neutral  reaction,  should  be  colorless,  should  not 
have  an  acrid  taste,  and  should  not  be  affected  by  hydrogen  sulphide.  It  should  volati- 
lize completely  when  heated — P.  G.  On  the  addition  of  nitrous  acid  or  nitroso-nitric  acid  to 


ANTIP'YRINUM. 


227 

a cold  concentrated  aqueous  solution  of  antipyrine,  green  crystals  are  separated.  Antipy- 
rine  melts  at  113°  C.  (235.4°  F.),  and  when  further  heated  turns  red,  then  brown,  and 
acquires  an  empyreumatic  odor  resembling  oil  of  amber,  the  residue  being  soluble  in  alco- 
hol, and  with  a red  color  in  chloroform.  Antipyrine  dissolved  in  wine  causes  the  gradual 
precipitation  of  the  coloring-matter  from  the  latter.  Syrup,  or  a fruit  syrup  with  an 
aromatic  spirit,  has  been"  found  to  be  a suitable  adjuvant  for  the  solution.  The 
powder  as  well  as  the  solution  should  be  carefully  protected  from  contact  with  iron 
compounds. 

Acetanilid  has  been  found  mixed  with  antipyrine  ; its  detection  is  easy,  for  although 
both  compounds  have  approximate  melting-points  (113°  0.)  a mixture  of  equal  parts 
melts  at  45°  C.  (113°  F.)  (Helbing).  Antipyrine  is  a well-characterized  base,  and  forms 
salts  with  the  acids  by  direct  addition.  Many  drugs  have  been  found  incompatible  with 
it,  among  which  may  be  mentioned  sodium  bicarbonate  and  salicylate  in  solid  form, 
chloral  hydrate  and  croton  chloral  hydrate,  hydrocyanic  acid,  spirit  of  nitrous  ether,  and 
all  acid  nitrites  in  solution,  tinctures  containing  tannin,  etc. 

Composition. — Antipyrine  is  phenyldimethylpyrazolon, and  has  the  formula  CnH12- 
X.,0.  It  is  isomeric  with  methyl  derivatives  of  tolylhydrazines,  which,  however,  have  an 
acid  character.  These  compounds  were  discovered  by  Knorr  ( Berichte  d.  Chem.  Ges ., 
1884,  pp.  546,  2032). 

Allied  Compounds. — Agathin  (salicylaldehyde-alpha  methylphenylhydrazone).  It  is  pre- 
pared by  direct  union  of  salicyl-aldehyde  with  alpha-methylphenylhydrazine,  and  occurs  in 
small  faintly  green  plate-like  crystals,  without  odor  and  taste  and  insoluble  in  water. 

Antithermin. — This  name  was  given  by  Nicot  (1887)  to  a compound  which  he  obtained  as  a 
white  precipitate  upon  mixing  an  acetic-acid  solution  of  108  parts  of  phenylhydrazine  with  an 
aqueous  solution  of  116  parts  of  levulinic  acid.  The  precipitate  is  dissolved  in  boiling  water, 
decolorized  with  animal  charcoal,  and  crystallized.  Antithermin  occurs  in  shining,  colorless 
crystals,  with  a very  faint  taste  and  sparingly  soluble  in  cold  water  or  alcohol.  Its  aqueous 
solution  is  neutral.  It  melts  at  108°C.  (226.4°  F.),  and  if  heated  to  170°  C.  (338°  F.)  is  converted 
into  phenylhydrazine  levulinic  anhydride  (CnH12N20).  Little  is  known  regarding  its  effects  and 
proper  dosage. 

Derivatives  of  Antipyrine. — Benzopyrine  or  antipyrine  benzoate.  According  to  S.  Cressati, 
this  compound  is  obtained  when  antipyrine  is  added  to  a boiling  solution  of  benzoic  acid ; it 
melts  below  the  boiling-point  of  water,  forming  a yellow  liquid  which  solidifies  to  an  opaque 
crystalline  mass.  It  is  almost  insoluble  in  hot  or  cold  water,  but  quite  soluble  in  alcohol  or 
ether. 

Iodopyrine. — When  a hot  solution  of  1 equivalent  of  iodine  in  12  parts  of  alcohol  is  mixed 
with  a solution  of  1 equivalent  of  antipyrine  in  4 parts  of  alcohol,  the  mixture  after  several  days 
will  separate  crystals  of  iodopyrine  (Duroy’s  patent),  which  consist  of  colorless  silky  needles, 
only  slightly  soluble  in  water  and  practically  free  from  odor  and  taste.  Antipyrine  di-iodide  is 
obtained  if  2 equivalents  of  iodine  be  used  instead  of  1.  Iodopyrine  melts  at  160°  C.  (320°  F.), 
and  is  readily  soluble  in  hot  water. 

Phenopyrine , an  oily,  colorless,  inodorous  liquid,  crystallizing  after  a time ; it  is  insoluble  in 
cold  water.  It  is  obtained  by  triturating  together  equal  parts  of  pure  and  well-dried  phenol  (car- 
bolic acid)  and  antipyrine. 

Picropyrine  occurs  in  fine  yellow  needles,  and  may  be  obtained  by  adding  a concentrated  solu- 
tion of  antipyrine  drop  by  drop  to  a concentrated  aqueous  solution  of  picric  acid,  and  recrystal- 
lizing the  precipitate  from  boiling  water. 

Naphtopyrine  and  Pyrogallopyrine  are  obtained  when  antipyrine  is  triturated  with  twice  its 
weight  of  beta-naphtol  and  pyrogallol  respectively ; both  are  insoluble  in  cold  water,  but  soluble 
in  alcohol  and  ether,  and  to  some  extent  in  boiling  water.  By  mixing  solutions  of  antipyrine 
and  pyrogallol  beautiful  prismatic  crystals  may  be  obtained  after  four  or  five  hours. 

Salipyrine , or  antipyrine  salicylate,  has  been  more  extensively  employed  than  any  other  salt 
of  the  base.  It  may  be  prepared  by  heating  antipyrine  and  salicylic  acid  together  in  molecular 
proportions,  with  or  without  water,  on  a steam-bath  ; the  mixture  melts  to  an  oily  liquid,  which 
upon  cooling  solidifies,  and  is  recrystallized  from  alcohol.  Another  method  is  to  shake 
together  an  aqueous  solution  of  antipyrine  and  an  ethereal  solution  of  salicylic  acid  ; the  com- 
pound will  separate  slowly  in  the  form  of  handsome  crystals,  being  practically  insoluble  in 
water  and  only  with  difficulty  in  ether.  Salipyrine  melts  at  91.5°  C.  (196.7°  F.),  and  is  readily 
soluble  in  alcohol  and  in  benzene.  The  solutions  manifest  a faintly  acid  reaction  aud  a sweet 
taste,  which  is  bitter  afterward.  It  has  been  used  with  good  results  in  sciatica,  epidemic 
influenza,  and  acute  and  chronic  rheumatism  ; its  advantages  over  antipyrine  are  claimed  to  be 
freedom  from  cardiac  influence  and  unpleasant  after-effects.  The  usual  dose  is  15  grains  at 
intervals  of  one-quarter  to  one  hour  until  2 drachms  have  been  taken  in  cases  of  articular  rheuma- 
tism ; 8 grains  is  often  sufficient  to  arrest  neuralgia;  it  is  administered  either  in  powder  form 
or  mixtures.  (The  reaction  between  sodium  salicylate  and  antipyrine,  thought  to  be  due  to 
chemical  change,  is  simply  due  to  deliquescence.) 

Action  and  Uses. — Neudorfer  asserts  that  antipyrin  is  antiseptic,  preventing 


228 


ANTIPYRINUM. 


putrefaction  and  destroying  bacteria  ; also  that  it  not  only  is  anodyne,  but  that  it  neither 
irritates  the  skin  nor  corrodes  steel  instruments.  When  antipyrin  was  first  introduced 
little  allusion  was  made  to  the  vomiting  it  is  apt  to  occasion.  But  afterward  depression 
verging  on  collapse,  with  coldness,  profuse  sweating,  irregular  pulse,  feeble  voice,  and 
vomiting,  especially  in  females,  were  found  to  be  ordinary  consequences  of  what  were 
then  held  to  be  efficient  doses.  To  counteract  them,  cordial  and  nervine  stimulants  were 
administered.  It  often  happened  that  the  pulse  and  temperature  did  not  fall  in  an  equal 
ratio,  and  sometimes,  indeed,  the  pulse-rate  was  increased  instead  of  being  slightly 
lowered,  as  it  usually  is.  In  healthy  persons  the  temperature  is  but  little  if  at  all 
reduced  by  antipyrin  ; but  in  fever  it  begins  to  decline  soon  after  the  medicine  is  admin- 
istered, and  its  subsidence  is  most  marked  within  from  four  to  six  hours  after  the  admin- 
istration of  Gm.  1 (15  grains),  and  by  a repetition  of  the  dose  or  the  administration  of  a 
smaller  one  may  be  prevented  from  rising  again.  It  appears  that  in  children  the  sedative 
action  on  the  pulse  is  insignificant.  In  all  cases  sweating  is  apt  to  be  provoked  by  an 
excessive  dose.  Antipyrin  is  eliminated  slightly  with  the  milk  and  largely  with  the 
urine,  but  it  does  not  irritate  the  urinary  tract.  According  to  Jacubowitsch,  the  quantity 
of  urea,  sodium  chloride,  and  acids  is  notably  diminished  in  children,  and  sometimes  the 
urine  itself  is  so  to  the  extent  of  one-half.  These  conclusions  were  confirmed  by  Bobin 
and  by  Elvey.  In  many  cases  antipyrin  produces  an  erythematous,  measly  eruption 
upon  the  trunk  and  limbs.  It  has  been  described  as  consisting  of  “ irregularly  rounded 
pimples  lying  close  together  and  forming  patches,”  and  followed  by  a slight  desquama- 
tion. It  is  symmetrical,  lasts  about  five  days,  abounds  most  on  the  extensor  surface,  and 
may  present  a few  vesicles,  and  occasion  itching.  In  some  cases  blebs  and  bloody  vesi- 
cles have  occurred.  Its  contact  with  the  teeth  discolors  them.  Among  the  occasional 
effects  of  antipyrin  the  following  may  be  noted:  Laache  ( Centralbl . f.  d.  g.  Ther.,  iv. 
453)  observed,  along  with  the  exanthem,  a burning  sensation  in  the  mouth  and  throat, 
and  coryza;  Umbach  saw  analogous  effects  in  healthy  persons  ( Arch,  f exp.  Pathol .,  xxi. 
1886)  ; and  Sturge  likewise,  with  the  addition  of  a sense  of  suffocation,  violent  cough, 
ringing  in  the  ears,  and  a copperish  taste  in  the  mouth  (Brit.  Med.  Jour.,  Feb.  4,  1888). 
Bernouilli  relates  an  analogous  case  ( Deutsche  Med.  Zeit .,  Nov.  24,  1887).  According 
to  Jaksch,  antipyrin  tends  to  render  eruptions  haemorrhagic  ( Boston  Med.  and  Surg. 
Jour.,  Oct.  1888,  p.  357).  Sometimes  the  skin  becomes  cyanotic,  and  in  one  case  75 
grains  are  said  to  have  occasioned  gastro-enteritis  and  mental  hebetude.  In  typhoid 
fever,  epistaxis,  purpura,  and  death  have  been  charged  to  it,  and  in  presumed  kidney 
disease  fatal  eclampsia.  In  the  case  of  a woman  who  took  an  ounce  of  antipyrin  at  one 
dose,  insensibility  of  fourteen  hours’  duration  ensued.  Sometimes  poisoning  has  been 
caused  by  doses  of  7 and  even  3^  grains  (Med.  News , li.  166.  (See  also  Med.  Record , 
xxxi.  95  ; xxxiii.  14 ; Med.  News , lii.  32  ; Therap.  Gaz .,  xii.  283 ; Gaz.  Hebdom.,  Mar.  23, 
1888;  Bull,  de  Therap.,  cxv.  134;  Practitioner,  xl.  375;  Brit.  Med.  Jour.,  June  15, 
1889).  Henderson  (Med.  Record,  xxxi.  95)  has  reported  two  cases  of  poisoning  by  anti- 
pyrin,  one  of  which  was  fatal,  and  it  is  stated  (Lancet,  Jan.  1890,  p.  35)  that  in  Vienna 
seventeen  deaths  from  arrest  of  the  heart  were  attributed  to  this  medicine.  Whitehouse 
(ibid.,  xxxii.  706)  mentions  one  which,  besides  the  usual  symptoms,  was  attended  with 
excruciating  gastric  pains  ; and  Huchard  (Centralb.  f.  d.  g.  Ther.,  v.  695)  a case  of  hyper- 
pyrexial  typhoid  fever  in  which  the  temperature  was  not  lowered,  but  raised.  Among 
the  less  frequent  untoward  effects  may  be  enumerated  diarrhoea,  dysury,  vomiting,  sopor, 
convulsions,  paralysis,  dyspnoea,  swelling  of  the  mouth  and  fauces  and  diphtherial 
exudation,  and  severe  and  general  neuralgia.  (Compare  Lancet,  Feb.  1888,  p.  364; 
Jour.  Amer.  Med.  Assoc.,  xiii.  922;  Med.  News,  liv.  461  ; Therap.  Monatsh.,  iii.  385  ; 
Lancet , Aug.  1889,  p.  813;  ibid.,  Jan.  1890,  p.  35  ; British  Med.  Jour.,  June  15,  1889  ; 
Med.  Record,  xxxvii.  409.  See  also  Drasche,  Centralb.  f Therap .,  vii.  19  ; Schwabe, 
ibid.,  viii.  552  ; Falk,  Therap.  Monatsh.,  iv.  97,  151.)  On  the  other  hand,  excessive 
doses  have  sometimes  been  taken  without  serious  injury,  as  in  the  case  of  a woman 
suffering  from  osteoscopic  pains,  who  in  five  days  consumed  1J  ounces  of  the  prepara- 
tion. She  became  cyanotic  and  her  legs  were  swollen  (Therap.  Gaz.,  xii.  684).  Also  the 
case  of  a man  who  recovered  after  taking  Gm.  8 (gij)  of  antipyrin  (Centralb.  f.  Therap ., 
viii.  134). 

We  have  on  many  occasions  protested  against  the  use  of  merely  antithermic  medicines 
in  the  treatment  of  fevers.  The  study  of  antipyrin  offers  an  occasion  for  renewing 
the  protest,  and  declaring  that  the  reduction  of  temperature  in  healthy  animals  by  poi- 
sons affords  no  warrant  for  employing  such  poisons  in  treating  the  fevers  of  human 
beings.  The  conditions  in  the  two  cases  are  neither  identical  nor  analogous.  All  anti- 


antipyrin  um. 


229 


thermic  agents  agree  in  demonstrating  that  behind  its  high  temperature  each  febrile  dis- 
ease presents  a specific  element,  be  it  a definite  morbid  poison,  an  alteration  of  the  con- 
stitution of  the  blood,  or  some  change  in  the  solid  tissues.  The  fever  of  phthisis,  for 
instance,  has  a different  nature  from  that  of  malarial  fever,  and  the  fevers  of  both  these 
from  that  of  an  acute  exanthem.  To  lower  the  temperature  merely,  even  if  it  were 
possible  at  will  to  reduce  it  to  the  normal  degree,  is  therefore  a very  different  thing  from 
removing  the  cause  upon  which  the  fever  depends.  But  a true  cure  involves  the  latter. 
Huchard,  and  after  him  Arduin,  have  insisted  that  a high  temperature  alone  does  not 
call  for  antipyretic  interference,  and  that  a temperature  which  is  essentially  normal  in 
one  disease  is  excessive  in  another,  but  only  to  such  an  extent  as  it  exceeds  the  ordinary 
temperature  in  that  disease.  The  tendency  to  heart-failure  in  all  protracted  febrile  dis- 
eases, and  the  special  liability  to  this  accident  in  tender  age,  are  additional  and  special 
reasons  against  the  use  of  this  class  of  medicines.  The  worst  mischiefs  of  antipyretics 
are  due  to  a disregard  of  such  laws  and  precepts.  These  views  and  conclusions  both 
experiment  and  clinical  observation  have  increasingly  supported.  They  have  shown  that 
antipyrin  and  its  congeners  retain  in  the  blood  the  very  morbid  agents  which  the  febrile 
process  in  the  course  of  nature  tends  to  eliminate,  and  that  the  extent  of  their  advan- 
tage consists  in  palliating  the  functional  disturbances,  such  as  insomnia  and  delirium, 
and  lowering  the  temperature  in  many  cases.  They  neither  reduce  the  mortality  nor 
abridge  the  course  nor  lessen  the  complications  of  acute  frebrile  diseases,  and  they 
offer  no  advantages  which  are  not  attainable  by  remedies  more  naturally  adapted  to 
fevers,  among  which  cold  water  by  ablution  or  in  baths  is  the  most  powerful  as  well  as 
the  most  efficient  when  skilfully  applied  in  suitable  cases  ; that  is,  when  a high  febrile 
temperature  involves  danger  to  the  life  of  persons  of  average  robustness,  and  that  not, 
as  we  have  elsewhere  insisted,  merely  by  extracting  caloric  from  the  body,  but  by  pow- 
erfully stimulating  all  the  functions,  including  those  of  the  heart  and  eliminating 
glands.  In  this  connection  it  should  not  be  overlooked  that  antipyrin  and  its  congeners, 
by  lowering  the  animal  temperature  in  persons  exposed  to  atmospheric  influences,  may 
render  them  more  liable  to  be  chilled.  Antipyrin  has  been  compared  with  other  agents 
of  the  same  class.  Huchard  has  pointed  out  the  following  contrasts : Quinine  is  tran- 
sient in  its  action  ; salicylic  acid  and  its  salts  are  uncertain,  and,  if  haemorrhage  already 
exists,  are  apt  to  increase  it;  carbolic  acid  causes  sweating,  pulmonary  congestion,  and 
collapse ; resorcin  does  not  moderate  hectic  fever ; it  causes  vertigo  and  auditory  disor- 
der, and  but  slightly  modifies  the  temperature  in  typhoid  fever ; while  kairin,  although 
inducing  a transient  subsidence  of  fever,  also  occasions  profuse  sweat  and  chills,  and, 
indeed,  acts  only  after  having  brought  about  serious  blood-lesions  ( Bull . de  Therap .,  cvii. 
511).  This  is  a succinct  and  emphatic  condemnation  of  the  antithermic  agents  enume- 
rated, but  it  is  nearly  as  applicable  in  degree,  and  quite  as  much  so  in  kind,  to  antipyrin. 
(See  W.  II.  Porter,  Med.  Record , xxxiv.  87.)  If,  too,  kairin  is  to  be  rejected  because  it 
induces  sweating,  then  antipyrin  is  quite  as  open  to  the  same  objection,  for  Frankenberg 
relates  a case  in  which  the  loss  of  weight  in  this  way  amounted  to  a pound  and  a quar- 
ter in  two  hours ; and  yet  it  is  in  the  hectic  fever  of  phthisis  that  antipyrin  is  emphati- 
cally recommended,  even  while  the  advice  is  given  that  its  tendency  to  promote  sweating 
should  be  combated  with  atropine  or  agaricine  ! 

Typhoid  fever  has  been  extensively  treated  by  means  of  antipyrin.  It  moderates 
delirium  and  dryness  of  tongue  in  proportion  as  it  reduces  the  temperature,  whether  the 
pulse-rate  fall  or  not.  It  also  palliates  the  restlessness,  wakefulness,  and  excitement. 
But  it  does  not  shorten  the  course  or  lessen  the  mortality  of  the  disease.  In- 
deed, relapses  seem  to  increase  under  its  use.  The  main  indication  for  it  in  this  as 
in  other  febrile  diseases  is  hyperpyrexia,  and  hence  the  necessity  for  it  cannot  be  very 
frequent.  It  has  been  noted  that  in  these  affections  the  urea  and  the  sulphates  and  the 
water  diminish  in  the  urine  under  its  use,  and  for  this  reason  some  leading  clinicians 
reject  antipyrin  absolutely.  The  best  clinicians  do  not  employ  it.  Dujardin-Beaumetz 
declared  that  it  in  no  way  modifies  the  gravity  of  the  disease  or  lessens  the  nervous 
symptoms  {Bull,  de  Therap.,  cxiii.  496)  ; Robin  found  that  by  reducing  elimination  and 
depressing  the  nervous  system  it  is  unsafe  in  typhoid  fever  ( Archives  yen.,  Jan.  1888,  p. 
21)  ; Guiteras  concluded  that  it  has  no  power  to  control  the  disease  ( Therap . Gaz.,  xi. 
462)  ; and  its  use  in  typhoid  fever  is  generally  abandoned.  In  intermittent  fever  antipyrin 
is  valueless,  notwithstanding  the  plausible  reasons  assigned  for  its  use.  It  has  been  used  with 
alleged  advantage  in  the  treatment  of  puerperal  metroperitonitis,  but  the  cases  published  to 
illustrate  its  virtues  did  not  sustain  the  claim,  and  it  is  now  abandoned.  In  pneumonia  it 
seems  to  have  been  less  injurious  than  its  action  upon  the  heart  would  lead  one  to  appre- 


230 


ANTIPYRINUM. 


hend.  It  reduces  the  pulse-rate  and  temperature,  and  has  been  thought  sometimes  to 
bring  about  a critical  sweat.  But  on  the  duration  and  mortality  of  pneumonia  it  exerts 
no  favorable  influence.  Indeed,  Posadski,  who  treated  two  series  of  cases,  the  one  with 
antipyrin  and  the  other  with  calomel,  concluded  that  the  latter  was  the  superior  remedy, 
in  that  it  was  followed  by  an  earlier  recovery.  Moreover,  of  the  25  patients  treated  with 
antipyrin,  no  less  than  5 suffered  collapse,  and  4 vomiting ; 2 presented  the  specific  erup- 
tion, and  11  the  characteristic  dark-red  urine.  These  patients  lost  weight  more  than 
those  of  the  parallel  series,  and  their  convalescence  was  slower  ( Centralblatt  f.  Therapie , 
iv.  495).  Its  virtues  in  the  hectic  fever  of  phthisis  have  been  highly  lauded  ; but  expe- 
rience has  shown  that  only  moderate  doses  of  it  should  be  used,  such  as  Gm.  0.25-0.50 
(gr.  v-10)  every  hour  or  two.  Sometimes,  when  the  proper  dose  has  been  learned,  the 
medicine  renders  more  tolerable  the  sweats  that  beset  the  consumptive  in  the  advanced 
stages  of  his  disease.  Beyond  this  it  has  no  good  influence.  Longer  experience  has 
shown  that  whatever  slight  gain  may  attend  its  use  in  lessening  fever  and  cough  is  more 
than  counterbalanced  by  its  tendency  to  cause  prostration,  nausea  and  vomiting,  and 
profuse  sweating.  In  acute  articular  rheumatism  antipyrin  has  appeared  to  reduce  the 
pain  and  swelling  in  the  joints.  Neumann  inclined  to  admit  iFalmost  to  an  equality  with 
salicylic  acid  and  the  salicylates  ( Centralblatt  f.  d.  g.  Med.,  iii.  542),  and  even  claimed  effi- 
ciency for  it  in  the  treatment  of  chronic  rheumatism  and  rheumatic  [neuralgia.  Bam- 
berger, whose  authority  is  very  high,  expressly  excludes  antipyrin  from  the  treatment 
of  rheumatism  ( Therapeut . Gaz .,  x.  277).  But  later  on  (1886)  Eich  found  it  equal  to 
salicylic  acid,  as  did  also  Golebiewski,  Clement  of  Lyons,  Bernheim  (who,  however, 
noted  that  it  was  more  efficient  in  diffused  than  in  fixed  articular  rheumatism , and  held 
it  to  be  a palliative  only,  and  not  specific),  and  Hirscli  {Centralbl.  f.  Med.,  vi.  724),  who 
vaunted  it  chiefly  in  muscular  rheumatism.  Sarda  extolled  it  in  every  variety  of 
rheumatism  for  its  relief  of  pain  (j Bull,  de  Therap .,  cxiv.  433),  when  given  hypoder- 
mically, yet  Tullio  {ibid.,  cxv.  236)  accused  the  medicine  of  favoring  complications  by 
the  sweating  and  debility  it  occasions.  In  diphtheria  the  natural  tendency  of  the  dis- 
ease to  syncope  is  increased  by  antipyrin.  Demme  reports  the  case  of  a boy  in  which 
its  administration  was  followed  by  fluttering  of  the  heart,  dilated  and  fixed  pupils,  and 
spasms  of  the  limbs.  Some  recorded  cases  seem  to  indicate  that  antipyrin  may  be  found 
useful  in  sunstroke  or  “ thermic  fever,”  but  not  in  heat-exhaustion.  But  it  should  be 
used  cautiously,  and  by  the  hypodermic  method.  Even  then  it  has  been  found  inopera- 
tive {Med.  Record,  xxx.  344).  Huchard,  Henocque,  and  others  ascribe  haemostatic 
virtues  to  antipyrin,  which  are  also  claimed  for  its  internal  as  well  as  its  topical  use  by 
Casati,  who  employed  5-  and  6-per-cent,  solutions.  But  the  porous  dressing  on  which  it 
was  applied  suffices  to  explain  its  action  locally ; and  of  its  haemostatic  virtues  internally 
there  is  no  sufficient  proof. 

The  estimate  we  have  expressed  of  the  medicinal  value  of  antipyrin  in  febrile  diseases 
received  stronger  confirmation  the  longer  the  medicine  was  submitted  to  clinical  tests. 
Reihlen’s  {Deutches  Archiv  fur  klinische  Medicm,  April,  1886)  conclusion  was  that,  except 
in  reducing  temperature,  it  exerted  no  favorable  influence  on  any  fever.  Its  analgesic  or 
anodyne  virtue  is  its  most  valuable  quality. 

Functional  disorders  of  the  nervous  system  afford  the  most  profitable  field  for  the  use 
of  antipyrin,  especially  those  in  which  spasm  or  pain  is  present.  It  has  been  used,  like 
potassium  bromide,  to  counteract  insomnia  and  acute  mania , but  with  inferior  results. 
Its  use  by  Legroux  in  1888,  according  to  his  reports,  proved  it  to  be  one  of  the  surest, 
safest,  and  quickest  remedies  for  chorea.  He  began  by  giving  15  grs.  daily  in  divided 
doses,  and  gradually  raised  the  dose  to  45  grains  a day  {Annuaire  de  Tlierap.,  1888,  p. 
48).  Dr.  II.  C.  Wood,  and  also  Simon,  Grim,  and  Lilienfcld,  have  reported  similar 
results,  but  with  much  smaller  doses.  In  epilepsy  it  appears  to  have  been  useful  when 
the  paroxysm  occurred  about  the  menstrual  period.  Bokenham  favored  its  use  when 
there  was  a marked  aura,  and  McLane  Hamilton  when  the  disease  was  purely  functional. 
J.  Leidy,  Jr.,  found  it  beneficial  in  only  3 out  of  36  cases.  On  the  whole,  therefore,  it 
cannot  inspire  confidence.  According  to  Mendel,  it  is  more  injurious  than  useful  in 
hysteria  {Centralb.  f d.  g.  Tlier.,  v.  515).  In  spasmodic  laryngitis  it  appears  to  have 
resolved  the  spasm.  Wendelband,  and  also  Sonnenberger,  among  the  first,  found  that  it 
palliated  the  paroxysms  of  whooping  cough  and  abridged  the  duration  of  the  disease. 
For  infants  and  children  they  prescribed  doses  from  a fraction  of  a grain  to  3 or  4 grains 
several  times  a day.  Such  results  were  also  obtained  by  Griffith  {Therap.  Gaz.,  xii.  84; 
Med.  News , lvii.  624),  Genser,  {Med.  News , lii.  576;  liv.  241),  and  Dubousquet  Labor- 
derie  {Bull,  de  Iherap.,  cxiv.  385  ; Bull,  et  Mem.  Soc.  Ther.,  1889,  p.  37 ; 1890,  p.  91), 


ANTIPYRINUM. 


231 


who  gave  from  Gm.  0.30-1  (5  to  15  grs.)  a day  for  infants  under  two  years  of  age,  and 
from  Gm.  1-4  (15  to  60  grs.)  for  older  persons,  in  divided  doses.  These  results  have  in 
the  main  been  confirmed,  among  others  by  Leubuscher  and  by  Windelschmidt,  who 
treated  about  350  cases  of  the  disease  ( Centralb . f Therap .,  viii.  49)  ; but  some  have 
held  it  to  be  only  a palliative,  while  still  others  (Loewe,  Therap.  Monats.,  iii.  169  ; Schnirer, 
ibid.,  iii.  377;  Tuczeck,  Ann.  de  Ther .,  1889,  p.  298;  Buisson,  They.  Gaz .,  xiv.  288) 
have  asserted  that  it  acted  poisonously,  or,  again,  was  quite  inert.  Beyond  all  doubt  it 
lessens  pain  and  reflex  irritability  or  spasm,  for  it  has  been  found  efficient  in  mitigating 
the  pains  of  labor  and  of  gravel , of  dgsmenorrhoea , migraine , otalgia , sciatica , tetanus , and 
locomotor  ataxia.  Bruen  used  it  advantageously  in  various  forms  of  spasmodic  cough 
{ University  Med.  Mag.,  i.  223).  A case  of  spasmodic  asthma  cured  by  antipyrin  has  been 
reported  by  Dodge  ( Therap . Gaz.,  xii.  262),  and  its  efficacy  in  hag  fever  is  claimed  by 
Cheatham  {Med.  Record .,  xxxii.  485).  Analogy  has  suggested  the  use  of  antipyrin  in 
strychnine-poisoning , and  it  is  said  to  have  been  found  useful  in  epidemic  cerehro-spinal 
meningitis  {Jour.  Amer.  Med.  Assoc.,  xi.  17).  Doubtless  by  a similar  sedative  action  it 
has  been  used  with  advantage  in  certain  cases  of  hallucination  of  sight  and  hearing,  and 
in  sun-stroke  of  the  congestive  form  ; in  sea-sickness  when  administered  in  advance  in  doses 
of  about  Gm.  0.65  (10  grs.)  three  times  a day  {Med.  News , li.  711  ; Med.  Record , xxxiv. 
633)  ; to  suppress  the  secretion  of  milk  {Bull,  de  Therap .,  cxiv.  554) ; to  diminish  polyuria 
of  cerebral  origin  {Bull,  de  la,  Soc.  de  Therap .,  1888,  pp.  46,  62),  though  it  does  not  control 
saccharine  diabetes  with  equal  certainty.  It  has  been  found  to  check  nocturnal  seminal 
emissions  when  given  at  bed-time  in  the  dose  of  from  Gm.  0.50-1  (gr.  viij-xv)  {Med. 
Record , xxxiii.  708).  See  ascribed  partly  to  its  sedative  action  on  the  heart  the  benefit 
he  believed  it  to  confer  in  cases  of  aortic  aneurism;  but  it  also  assuaged  the  pains  that 
often  exist  in  such  cases.  He  gave  it  along  with  potassium  iodide  ( Practitioner , xli.  376). 

Although  early  experimenters  on  animals  perceived  an  anaesthetic  virtue  in  antipyrin, 
no  clinical  use  was  made  of  this  observation  until  the  antipyretic  uses  of  the  medicine 
had  been  established.  Then  it  was  employed  for  the  relief  it  gave  in  migraine , but  its 
efficacy  was  attributed  to  its  sedative,  and  not  to  its  anodyne,  virtues.  One  of  the  first 
to  call  attention  to  its  use  in  headache  was  Dr.  J.  B.  White  {Med.  Record , xxx.  293), 
and  about  the  same  time  Ungar  made  similar  observations  {Centralb.  f.  Therap .,  v.  18), 
which  were  confirmed  by  Mendel,  {ibid.,  v.  514),  Sprimer  {Lond.  Med.  Gaz.,  Jan.  5,  1887), 
Robertson  {Med.  Record,  xxxi.  517),  Lyman  {Med.  News , 1.  535),  and  many  others. 
These  or  similar  results  were  speedily  generalized  by  See,  who,  with  Gley,  determined 
experimentally  the  analgesic  virtues  of  the  preparation,  and  showed  clinically  that  it 
was  an  anodyne  for  nearly  every  form  of  pain,  although  it  was  most  efficient  in  neural- 
gic pain  {Union  Med.,  Avr.  26,  1886).  The  series  of  cases  noted  include  gout,  rheuma- 
tism (articular  and  muscular),  rheumatoid  arthritis,  locomotor  ataxia,  angina  pectoris, 
cancer , syphilitic  pains  {University  Med.  Mag.,  i.  106),  biliary  and  renal  colic,  the  neu- 
ralgia of  zona,  dgsmenorrhoea , etc.  {Med.  Record,  xxxiv.  477 ; Med.  News,  liii.  420 ; 
Boston  Med.  and.  Sury.  Jour.,  Dec.  1887,  p.  558;  Archives  gen.,  Oct.  1887,  p.  497); 
and  the  itching,  burning,  etc.  of  various  skin  diseases  ( Practitioner , xlii.  371  ; Med. 
News,  lvii.  220).  In  general  terms,  neuralgia,  and  especially  neuralgic  headache,  was 
most  amenable  to  its  influence,  which  in  both  its  hypnotic  and  depressing  powers  seemed 
distinct  {Jour.  Amer.  Med.  Assoc.,  xi.  196),  even  with  very  small  doses  such  as  3 or  4 
grains  (Bokenham,  Practitioner,  xl.  99,  266).  Its  action  is  by  no  means  uniform,  how- 
ever, and  not  a few  observers  seem  to  have  missed  it  altogether  {Boston  Med.  and  Surg. 
Jour.,  Dec.  1887,  p.  560).  In  1887,  See  suggested  that  the  efficacy  of  the  medicine 
depended  wholly  on  its  analgesic  power  {Med.  Record,  xxxii.  31),  while  others  claimed  its 
antipyretic  action  as  a factor  in  the  result  (Davis,  Jour.  Amer.  Med.  Asso.,  ix.  13; 
Bernheim  and  Simon,  Centralb.  f.  d.  g.  Med.,  v.  687),  and  Hamilton  maintained  its  espe- 
cial virtues  in  “ angiospastic  migraine  ” and  other  cases  of  cerebral  excitement  ( Therap. 
Gaz.,  xi.  485  ; Wright,  Med,.  Record,  xxxii.  814).  But,  as  TJngar  pointed  out  in  1886, 
its  success  or  failure  cannot  be  counted  upon.  In  two  successive  attacks  the  same  person 
may  be  greatlyrelieved  or  not  at  all  benefited.  Antipyrin,  like  other  anaesthetics,  relieves 
neuralgia  without  very  definite  regard  to  the  cause  producing  it ; yet  it  palliates  the 
severe  lancinating  pains  of  locomotor  ataxia  and  others  of  organic  origin  with  more 
certainty  than  the  pains  of  hysterical  or  nervous  neuralgia  (See ; Suckling ; Mendel). 
So,  too,  in  diseases  of  the  eye  Kacovurow,  Post,  Dujardin  and  others  have  observed  that 
the  pains  most  readily  controlled  by  the  medicine  were  due  to  material  lesions  {Annuaire 
de  Therap.,  1887,  p.  88).  On  the  other  hand,  Fischer  met  with  the  best  results  in  func- 
tional neuralgia  {Med.  News , liii.  420). 


232 


ANTIPYRTNUM. 


Windelschmidt  found  that  enemas  containing  antipyrin  relieved  dysmenorrhcea,  and  his 
observations  have  been  confirmed  (Dellenbaugh,  Med.  Record , xxxi.  379).  Queirel 
relieved  the  pain  of  parturition  by  injections  of  5 grains,  repeated,  if  necessary,  in  two 
hours  (Archives  gen.,  Avr.  1888,  p.489),  while  Laight,  Chouppe  (British  Med.  Jour.,  Dec. 
17,  1887),  and  others  agree  that  it  does  not  lessen  the  vigor  of  the  expulsive  action. 
Auvard  and  Lefebre,  however,  declare  that  in  the  majority  of  cases  the  medicine  displays 
no  such  powers,  and  that  it  is  not  to  be  compared  to  chloral  or  chloroform  in  this  respect. 
According  to  Milne,  it  relieves  after-pains  in  the  dose  of  15  to  20  grains  (M<-d.  Record, 
xxxiii.  39).  Miraschi  (Annuaire  de  Ther.,  1890,  p.  246)  also  found  that  it  allayed  after- 
pains  (especially  when  caused  by  ergot),  as  well  as  the  pains  occuring  during  dilatation 
of  the  os  uteri,  but  not  the  expulsive  pains  of  labor.  It  palliates  the  pain  of  dysmenor- 
rhoea,  but  without  lessening  the  menstrual  flow.  Phillips  has  confirmed  these  and  simi- 
lar conclusions  ( Lancet , Sept.  1890,  p.  605). 

Applied  locally,  antipyrin  in  fine  powder  has  been  used  to  relieve  the  pain  and  pro- 
mote the  healing  of  ulcers  (Bosse ; Neudorfer),  and  the  hsemostatic  properties  ascribed 
to  it  by  Henoque  (Annuaire  de  Therap.,  1888,  p.  75),  which  were  not  confirmed  by 
Glinsky  (Med.  Neu:s,  lii.  695),  are  stated  by  Hinkel  to  be  equal  to  those  of  cocaine 
when  a solution  of  it  is  sprayed  into  the  nostrils  to  control  epistaxis  (ibid.,  liii.  473). 
See,  Berdach,  and  others  have  found  a 50  per  cent,  solution  an  efficient  hypodermic 
analgesic. 

Although  nearly  identical  with  antifebrin  in  the  nature  of  its  action,  antipyrin  is 
generally  regarded  as  less  eligible  on  account  of  the  larger  dose  of  it  required  and  the 
untoward  effects  it  is  more  liable  to  produce ; nevertheless,  the  two  agents  are  different 
in  the  degree  rather  than  the  nature  of  their  operation,  and  even  moderate  doses  of  anti- 
febrin have  occasioned  alarming  symptoms.  Dujardin-Beaumetz  has  pronounced  it  the 
most  dangerous  preparation  of  its  class  (Bull.  et.  Mem.  Soc.  Therap .,  1888,  p.  204). 
Thallin,  according  to  Johnson,  has  a less  prolonged  action  than  antipyrin,  and  is  less  apt 
to  produce  toxical  effects  ( Lancet , Aug.  1886,  p.  388).  A discussion  by  the  Association 
of  American  Physicians  in  1888  showed  that  at  that  meeting  the  preponderance  of  opin- 
ion was  distinctly  on  the  side  of  antifebrin. 

Doses  of  antipyrin  of  Gm.  5-6  (gr  lxxv-xc)  a day,  advised  by  some,  or  of  Gm.  1-5 
(gr.  xv— lxxv),  by  later  authorities,  are  seldom  given  at  the  present  time.  In  articular 
rheumatism  Gm.  1-1.30  (gr.  15-20)  every  4 or  6 hours  need  not  be  exceeded.  Mendel 
gave  Gm.  2 (gr.  xxx)  four  times  a day  in  a severe  case  of  articular  rheumatism,  but  it 
caused  great  depression  and  gastric  disturbance.  For  infants  the  dose  should  not  exceed 
2 or  3 grains.  Smaller  doses  than  the  above  should  be  used  to  procure  the  anodyne  or 
hypnotic  action  of  the  medicine — e.  g.  Gm.  0.30-0.60  (gr.  v-x)  every  hour  or  half  hour. 
It  may  be  given  in  an  aromatic  water,  or  in  coffee  with  milk  and  sugar,  or  in  a wafer. 
By  enema  it  is  thought  by  some  to  act  as  well  as  by  the  mouth,  but  others  condemn 
the  method  as  inefficient.  Suppositories  containing  from  Gm.  0.50-1  (gr.  viii-xv)  have 
been  employed.  For  hypodermic  administration  a solution  containing  equal  parts,  by 
weight,  of  water  and  antipyrin  (of  each  about  5 grs.  (Gm.  0.30))  has  generally  been 
used  for  a single  dose.  Ilirsch  advises  the  addition  of  a small  proportion  of  glycerin. 
According  to  him,  the  hypodermic  is  the  most  eligible  method  (Centrabl.  f.  d.  g.  Ther., 
vi.  724),  but  a number  of  reporters  relate  that  it  causes  excessive  pain  and  haemorrhagic 
infarctions,  abscesses,  or  sloughing  (Bach,  Therap.  Gaz.,  Nov.  1889,  p.  747 ; Hess, 
Centrabl.  f.  Ther.,  vii.  85  ; Dujardin-Beaumetz,  Bull,  de  Ther.,  cxvii.  343).  These  effects 
are  said  to  be  diminished  when  the  puncture  is  made  deeply,  and  also  by  mixing  with 
the  injection  a solution  of  cocaine  or  using  the  latter  in  advance.  Tn  case,  of  threatening 
collapse  alcoholic  stimuli  and  hypodermic  injections  of  atropine  may  be  employed. 

Agathin  is  reported  to  be  useful  in  neuralgia  and  rheumatism,  when  it  is  given  in 
doses  of  Gm.  0.50  (gr.  viii)  three  times  a day,  and  to  occasion  no  bad  symptoms. 

Antithermin,  as  its  name  implies,  is  used  as  an  antipyretic,  and  in  the  dose  of  about 
Gm.  0.30  (gr.  v). 

Iodopyrin,  like  most  of  its  congeners,  reduces  febrile  heat  without  modifying  the 
course  of  any  febrile  disease.  It  sometimes  occasions  profuse  sweating.  Dose,  Gm. 
0.06-0.30  (gr.  i-v). 


APOCYNUM. 


233 


APOCYNUM,  U.  S.—  Apocynum. 

Canadian  Hemp , E.  ; Chanvre  dn  Canada , Fr.  ; Canadische  Hanfwurzel , G. 

The  root  of  Apocynum  cannabinum,  Linn 6. 

Nat.  Ord. — Apocynaceae,  Echitideae. 

Origin. — This  perennial  herb  grows  in  fields  and  grassy  places  and  on  the  border  of 
woods  throughout  a large  portion  of  the  North  American  continent  from  Florida  north- 
ward. The  smooth  often  purplish  stem  is  about  1 M.  (40  inches)  high,  has  rather  erect 
branches,  opposite  oblong  or  linear-oblong  acute  and  mucronate  leaves  and  many-flowered 
cymes,  the  corolla  being  greenish-white  or  reddish,  having  five  erect  lobes  and  a tube  of 
the  length  of  the  calyx  ; the  fruit  fconsists  of  a pair  of  slender  follicles  containing 
numerous  narrow  silky-tufted  seeds.  All  parts  of  the  plant,  which  flowers  in  July 
and  August,  contain  a white  adhesive  milk-juice.  Its  popular  name  of  Indian  hemp 
refers  to  the  strong  fibres  of  the  stem-bark,  which  somewhat  resemble  the  bast-fibres  of 
hemp. 

Description. — The  root  is  horizontal,  several  feet  long,  6 to  12  Mm.  (|  to  4 inch) 
thick,  slightly  branched  and  beset  with  a very  few  fibres ; when  dry,  longitudinally 
wrinkled,  and  the  thinner  portions  somewhat  annulated  by  deep  transverse  fissures.  It 
has  a brownish-gray  or  pale-brown  color  externally,  and  under  the  thin  corky  layer  a 
fleshy  whitish  bark,  which  is  about  as  thick  as  the  woody  layer,  contains  laticiferous  ves- 
sels, and  encloses  a yellowish  or  whitish  porous  wood  composed  of  several  rings  and 
finely  radiate  by  medullary  rays ; in  the  centre  is  a thin  pith.  The  root  breaks  with  a 
short  fracture,  is  inodorous,  and  the  wood  tasteless,  but  the  bark,  which  constitutes  about 
60  per  cent,  of  the  drug,  develops  gradually  a very  persistent  bitter  and  rather  disagree- 
able taste;  its  parenchyma-cells  are  filled  with  starch.  It  is  usually  mixed  with  the  lower 
portion  of  the  stem,  which  has  a smoother  and  tougher  bark  and  harder  wood,  the  latter 
enclosing  a larger  pith. 

Constituents. — The  earlier  analyses  of  Dr.  Knapp  and  Dr.  Griscom  (1833)  proved 
the  presence  of  tannin,  gallic  acid,  gum,  starch,  resin,  and  wax.  J.  U.  Lloyd  (1879) 
obtained  from  a fluid  extract  of  this  root,  on  standing,  crystals  of  cane-sugar  and  a pre- 
cipitate of  white,  tasteless,  waxy  matter.  Schmiedeberg  (1883)  has  isolated  two  principles 
resembling  digitalin  in  their  properties.  Apocynin  is  resin-like,  amorphous,  easily  soluble 
in  alcohol  and  ether,  nearly  insoluble  in  water,  and  becomes  inert  on  being  boiled  with 
hydrochloric  acid.  Apocynein  is  a yellowish  glucoside,  easily  soluble  in  water  and  alcohol, 
insoluble  in  chloroform,  ether,  and  benzin,  and,  like  apocynin,  gives  no  characteristic 
reaction  with  sulphuric  acid  and  bromine.  The  glucoside  recognized  by  Poppenhusen 
(1888)  in  the  ether  extract  was  probably  apocynin;  the  ash  amounts  to  about  11  per 
cent. 

Allied  Plant. — Apocynum  andros^emifolium,  Linm *,  known  as  dog'sbane , grows  in  similar 
localities  as  the  preceding  northward  from  North  Carolina,  and  appears  to  be  more  frequent  in 


Fig.  28.  Fig.  29. 


Apocj  Dum  cannabinum : transverse  seciiou  ; magnified  25  diameters.  Apocynum  androsaemifolium  : transverse 

section  ; magnified  25  diameters. 

the  northern  section  of  the  continent.  It  differs  from  Canadian  hemp  chiefly  by  the  spreading 
stem  and  branches,  the  relatively  broader  leaves,  and  the  bell-shaped,  rose-colored  corolla  with 
reflexed  lobes  and  a tube  longer  than  the  calyx.  The  long  rhizome  and  roots  are  from  3 to  6 
u • 1 lnc'h)  thick,  and  have  a pale-brownish,  wrinkled,  transversely  fissured,  thickish  bark, 
’which  is  about  half  the  thickness  of  the  woody  layer,  contains  groups  of  stone-cells  in  the  mid- 


234 


APOMORPHINE  HYDROCHLORAS. 


die  part,  is  of  an  unpleasantly  bitter  taste,  and  separates  easily  from  the  tough,  white,  finely- 
porous,  and  delicately  rayed  wood,  enclosing  a rather  large  pith.  The  starch  of  this  species  is 
much  smaller  than  that  of  the  preceding.  Canadian  hemp-root  has  been  frequently  sold  in 
place  of  dog’sbane-root.  (For  microscopical  descriptions  of  both  drugs  see  E.  B.  Stuart  in  Pro- 
ceedings Amer.  Phar.  Assoc.,  1881,  p.  468,  and  E.  A.  Manheimer,  in  Amer.  Jour.  Phar.,  1881, 
p.  554.)  Bigelow  found  in  dog’sbane  a red  coloring  matter  soluble  in  water  and  insoluble  in 
alcohol,  a trace  of  volatile  oil,  and  a caoutchouc-like  body.  The  bitter  principle  was  obtained 
as  an  extract-like  mass.  The  active  constituents  are  probably  identical  with  those  of  the  pre- 
ceding drug. 

Action  and  Uses. — Apocynum  is  a powerful  emetic  and  cathartic,  and  when 
it  produces  vomiting  is  diaphoretic  also.  It  also  promotes  expectoration,  causes  a 
tendency  to  drowsiness,  increases  the  urinary  secretion,  and  diminishes  the  frequency  and 
force  of  the  pulse.  Its  evacuant  properties  have  sometimes  been  made  available  in 
dropsy,  but  it  does  not  always  appear  in  what  forms  of  dropsy  its  efficacy  has  been 
chiefly  shown.  Probably  it  is,  in  large  doses,  a mere  evacuant  of  dropsical  effusions. 
But  the  observations  of  Murray  appear  to  prove  that,  even  in  small  doses,  it  acts  as  a 
tonic  of  the  heart  and  directly  or  indirectly  as  a diuretic.  There  can  be  little  doubt  of 
its  possessing  the  latter  value  in  common  with  jalap  and  other  hydragogue  cathartics. 
The  experiments  made  by  Skoboloff  appear  to  show  that  an  aqueous  infusion  of  apocy- 
num-root  acts  as  a depressant  of  the  heart  ( Amer . Jour.  Plmr.,  lx.  581) — an  observation 
confirmed  and  defined  by  Murray  ( Therap . Gaz.,  xiii.  585),  who  compares  the  drug  with 
digitalis,  and  contends  that,  without  acting  purgatively,  it  causes  diuresis  in  dropsy 
depending  upon  cardiac  obstruction.  Possibly  it  has  the  advantage  of  exciting  diapho- 
resis and  diuresis  while  it  purges  and  vomits.  In  the  crudely-reported  cases  intended  to 
demonstrate  its  efficacy  it  is  seldom  clear  whether  it  acted  as  a diuretic  or  as  a cathartic, 
or  with  what  associated  phenomena  (e.  g.  Therap.  Gaz.,  xi.  29).  It  is  said  to  destroy 
intestinal  worms.  An  infusion  and  a tincture  of  the  root  have  both  been  regarded  as 
tonic  and  alterative  in  dyspeptic  derangements,  and  as  curative  of  mild  cases  of  inter- 
mittent fever.  These  properties  are  doubtless  owing  to  the  bitter  principle  which  it  con- 
tains. The  dose  of  the  powdered  root  is  about  Grin.  0.30  (gr.  v)  as  an  antiperiodic, 
and  Gm.  1.30  (gr.  xx)  as  an  emetic.  The  decoction  is  usually  made  with  Gm.  32 
(3j)  of  the  root  in  Gm.  750  (Oiss)  boiled  down  one-third,  and  may  be  given  in  doses  of 
a wine-glassful  three  times  a day.  Some  physicians  recommend  as  a diuretic  in  dropsy 
an  infusion  made  with  Gm.  4 (^j)  of  the  bark  of  the  root  in  Gm.  250  (^viij)  of  water, 
of  which  Gm.  16  (f^ss)  may  be  given  once  in  six  hours.  A fluid  extract  is  in  use  and  is 
administered  in  doses  of  from  5 to  10  drops. 

Dog'sbane  is  said  to  be  diaphoretic  and  emetic,  without  causing  much  nausea,  and  to 
operate  more  gently  and  certainly  than  ipecacuanha ; but  it  deteriorates  by  keeping.  It 
is  also  reputed  to  be  tonic,  cathartic,  and  alterative,  and  to  possess  antisyphilitic  powers. 
In  reality,  its  virtues,  if  it  have  any  that  entitle  it  to  a place  in  the  materia  medica,  are 
not  well  defined.  The  powder  of  the  recently-dried  root  is  emetic  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  2 
(gr.  xxx).  From  Gm.  0.60—1.20  (gr.  x— xx)  may  be  given  as  a tonic  or  alterative  in 
substance,  infusion,  decoction,  or  tincture. 

APOMORPHINiE  HYDROCHLORAS,  U.  S.,  Ur. — Apomorphine 

Hydrochlorate. 

Apomorphinum  hydrochloricum , P.  G. — Chlorhydrate  d' apomorphine,  Fr. ; Apomorphin- 
Hydrochlorat,  G.  ; Chloridrato  di  apomorfina,  F.  It. 

The  hydrochlorate  of  an  artificial  alkaloid  prepared  from  morphine. — IT.  S. 

Formula  C17HnN02.lICl.  Molecular  weight  302.79. 

Preparation. — 1 part  of  pure  morphine  and  20  parts  of  pure  hydrochloric  acid  are 
introduced  into  a strong  glass  tube  having  at  least  fifteen  times  the  capacity  of  the  mix- 
ture ; the  open  end  is  securely  sealed,  the  glass  tube  introduced  into  a strong  metallic 
tube  closed  by  a screw-cap,  and  the  whole  immersed  for  3 hours  in  an  oil-bath  heated  to 
between  140°  and  150°  C.  (284°  and  302°  F.).  After  cooling,  the  tube  is  opened,  the 
liquid  diluted  with  water,  and  sodium  bicarbonate  added  in  excess.  The  liquid  is 
decanted  from  the  precipitate,  and  this  is  agitated  with  ether.  To  the  ethereal  solution 
a few  drops  of  hydrochloric  acid  are  added,  whereby  amorphine  hydrochlorate  is  sepa- 
rated ; this  is  recrystallized  from  boiling  water  and  rapidly  dried  over  concentrated  sul- 
phuric acid.  In  this  process  chloroform  may  be  used  in  the  place  of  ether. 

This  process  is  the  one  devised  by  Matthiessen  and  Wright  (1869).  The  hydrochloric 
acid,  acting  upon  the  morphine  at  the  temperature  stated  above,  merely  abstracts  1 mole- 


APOMORPHINE  hydrochloras. 


235 


cule  of  water  from  the  molecule  of  morphine,  and  on  opening  the  cooled  tube  no  pressure 
is  observed  in  it  and  no  gas  escapes.  During  the  heating,  however,  there  is  considerable 
pressure  in  the  sealed  tube  from  the  volatile  acid,  and  to  guard  against  accidents  its 
enclosure  in  a strong  metallic  tube,  as  directed  above,  is  advisable.  A portion  of  morphine 
may  possibly  not  undergo  the  change,  and  will  be  precipitated  with  the  apomorphine  by 
the  bicarbonate.  Morphine  being  insoluble  in  ether,  it  is  left  behind  when  the  precipitate 
is  treated  with  this  solvent,  which  readily  dissolves  apomorphine.  On  the  addition  of  a 
little  hydrochloric  acid  apomorphine  hydrochlorate  is  produced,  and,  being  insoluble  in  ether, 
separated  in  a crystalline  condition.  The  recrystallization  of  the  salt  from  boiling  water 
renders  it  perfectly  pure.  Since  apomorphine  is  soluble  in  aqueous  liquids,  the  mother- 
liquor  decanted  from  the  precipitate  contains  notable  quantities  of  the  alkaloid,  which 
may  be  recovered  by  agitation  with  ether  or  chloroform  and  by  treating  these  solutions 
with  a little  hydrochloric  acid.  The  salt  as  well  as  the  alkaloid  should  be  rapidly  dried 
upon  bibulous  paper  or  over  sulphuric  acid  under  a bell-glass,  and  kept  in  small  well- 
stopped  bottles  protected  from  moisture  and  light. 

Matthiessen  and  Wright  have  obtained  the  same  compound  from  codeine  and  hydro- 
chloric acid,  which  yield  at  first  chlorocodid , C18H20ClNO2,  and  on  continuing  to  heat  in  a 
sealed  tube  this  compound  is  split  into  methyl  chloride,  CH3C1,  and  apomorphine, 

c17hi:no2. 

Mayer  (1871)  noticed  that  morphine  hydrochlorate  is  more  rapidly  and* at  a lower 
temperature  converted  into  apomorphine  by  heating  it  to  120°  C.  (248  F.)  with  a solution 
of  zinc  chloride  of  such  strength  that  its  boiling-point  is  at  200  (392°  F.)  ; the  change 
is  then  effected  in  90  minutes,  and  the  apomorphine  or  its  salt  may  be  obtained  pure  by 
the  above  process,  the  zinc  carbonate,  which  is  precipitated  at  the  same  time,  being  insol- 
uble in  ether. 

In  1845,  Arppe  had  obtained  sulphomorphid,  by  heating  morphine  sulphate  with  an 
excess  of  sulphuric  acid  and  water  to  150°  C.  ) 302  F.).  This  is  white,  nearly  insoluble 
in  water,  and  was  proved  by  Matthiessen  and  Wright  to  be  apomorphine  sulphate.  Arppe 
had  given  it  the  formula  C17H18NS04.  Nadler  (1873)  separated  from  it  the  alkaloid  and 
converted  it  into  hydrochlorate. 

Properties. — Apomorphine  hydrochlorate  is  in  “ minute,  colorless,  or  grayish-white, 
shining  crystals,  turning  greenish  on  exposure  to  light  and  air,  odorless,  having  a bitter 
taste  and  a neutral  or  faintly  acid  reaction  ; soluble  in  6.8  parts  of  water  and  in  50 
parts  of  alcohol  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.) ; slowly  decomposed  by  boiling  water  or  boiling  alco- 
hol ; almost  insoluble  in  ether  or  chloroform,  and  should  it  impart  color  to  either  of  these 
liquids  it  should  be  rejected,  or  it  may  be  purified  by  thoroughly  agitating  it  with  either 
liquid,  filtering,  and  then  rapidly  drying  the  salt  on  bibulous  paper  in  a dark  place.  The 
aqueous  solution  on  gentle  warming  rapidly  turns  green,  but  retains  a neutral  reaction. 
Solution  of  sodium  bicarbonate,  added  to  an  aqueous  solution  of  the  salt,  throws  down 
the  white,  amorphous  alkaloid,  which  soon  turns  green  on  exposure  to  air,  and  forms  a 
bluish-green  solution  with  alcohol,  a purple  one  with  ether  or  pure  benzene,  and  a violet 
or  blue  one  with  chloroform.  Addition  of  test-solution  of  silver  nitrate  to  an  aqueous 
solution  of  the  salt  produces  a white  precipitate  insoluble  in  nitric  acid,  but  instantly 
reduced  to  metallic  silver  by  water  of  ammonia.” — U.  S.  “ It  turns  blood-red  with  nitric 
acid,  dissolves  in  an  excess  of  solution  of  soda,  the  liquid  kept  in  an  open  vessel  becoming 
in  a short  time  purple,  and  finally  black.” — P.  G.  Its  concentrated  solution  yields  with 
potassium  permanganate  a dingy-green  precipitate,  soluble  brown-yellow  in  potassa,  and 
brick-red  in  nitric  acid  ; potassium  iodide  yields  a white  gelatinous  precipitate  insoluble 
in  excess,  but  soluble  in  ammonia  (Anneessens,  1882). 

The  jlure  alkaloid  is  a white,  or  more  generally  a grayish,  amorphous  powder,  rather 
freely  soluble  in  water,  ether,  benzene,  and  chloroform.  On  exposure  to  the  air  while  still 
moist  it  rapidly  turns  green,  and  then  dissolves  in  chloroform  with  a blue  color.  Nadler 
observed  that  on  being  precipitated  from  its  solution  in  sulphuric  acid  by  ammonia  it 
speedily  acquires  a reddish-brown  color,  and  yields  with  chloroform  a rose-colored  solution. 
Apomorphine  is  colored  red  by  nitric  acid,  brown  by  iodic  acid,  and  rose-red  or  amethyst- 
red  by  ferric  chloride,  this  last  reaction  being  quite  distinct  from  the  blue  color  produced 
by  the  same  reagent  with  morphine. 

The  salts  of  apomorphine  appear  to  be  slightly  soluble  in  cold  water,  but  more  freely 
so  in  warm  and  in  acidulated  water.  The  aqueous  and  alcoholic  solutions  of  the  alkaloid 
and  its  salts  acquire  an  emerald-green  color  on  exposure  to  air,  at  the  same  time  losing 
their  medical  properties ; apomorphine  should  therefore  not  be  kept  in  solution.  In  order 


236 


APOMORPBINJE  BYDROCHLORAS. 


to  preserve  it  for  a week  or  two,  Hager  recommends  the  addition  of  a drop  of  ether  to 
2 Gm.  (half  a drachm)  of  the  solution. 

Action  and  Uses. — Some  persons  appear  to  be  readily  poisoned  by  apomorphine, 
which  then  produces,  usually,  a degree  of  sedation  which  may  reach  full  collapse.  This 
has  happened  even  in  robust  subjects.  In  one  nausea  occurred  at  the  end  of  ten  min- 
utes ; in  three  minutes  more  the  patient  grew  very  giddy  and  pale,  and  fell  to  the  ground  ; 
he  then  broke  into  a cold  sweat  and  appeared  to  be  dying,  but  he  vomited  copiously  and 
recovered.  One-thirty-second  of  a grain  was  very  unwisely  injected  in  the  case  of  a 
child  affected  with  capillary  bronchitis.  Violent  and  repeated  vomiting  took  place,  the 
the  patient  grew  deadly  pale  and  had  a tracheal  rattle,  but  it  survived.  A drunkard 
affected  with  albuminuria  had  injected  one-sixth  of  a grain  of  muriate  of  apomorphine. 
Vomiting  presently  took  place,  and  then  sudden  syncope;  the  pulse  was  extinct  and 
respiration  hardly  perceptible  ; the  skin  was  pale  and  livid  arid  covered  with  a cold  sweat ; 
there  was  complete  extinction  of  consciousness  and  sensibility.  Under  electrical  stimulus 
the  man  was  saved  (Dujardin-Beaumetz).  Very  similar  effects  occurred  in  the  following 
case : A middle-aged  woman,  suffering  from  sore  throat,  received  a hypodermic  injection 
of  one-sixteenth  of  a grain  of  muriate  of  apomorphine.  Besides  the  symptoms  last 
mentioned  there  occurred  convulsive  twitchings  of  the  corners  of  the  mouth.  For  some 
hours  after  the  return  of  consciousness  she  was  inclined  to  faint.  In  a case  of  quinsy 
one-sixth  of’  a grain  was  injected  subcutaneously.  In  ten  minutes  the  patient  suddenly 
threw  himself  backward  and  flexed  his  arms  rigidly ; the  pulse  was  very  small,  the  skin 
cool,  and  the  heart-sounds  feeble.  Opisthotonos  followed,  the  man  supporting  himself 
on  the  neck  and  heels.  In  a few  minutes  the  rigidity  disappeared  and  the  patient  sank 
into  a deep  sleep.  A man  fifty-two  years  old,  suffering  from  bronchitis,  received  a sub- 
cutaneous injection  of  one-fifteenth  of  a grain  of  muriate  of  apomorphine.  He  did  not' 
vomit,  but  in  seven  minutes  he  became  collapsed  and  died.  The  autopsy  threw  no  light 
upon  the  immediate  cause  of  his  death  (Ungar). 

Pecholier,  a professor  of  Montpellier,  has  published  a detailed  history  of  the  poisonous 
effects  produced  in  himself  by  the  hypodermic  injection  of  about  one-sixth  of  a grain 
of  this  substance.  He  lay  with  his  limbs  extended,  inert,  and  unconscious,  his  face 
livid,  his  tongue  protuding,  and  his  breathing  suspended.  Strange  to  say,  however,  the 
pulse  was  full  and  firm  and  the  temperature  natural.  Another  injection  like  the  first  was 
administered  ! It  brought  on  copious  vomiting,  immediately  followed  by  complete  col- 
lapse, in  which,  besides  the  phenomena  just  mentioned,  the  pulse  grew  feeble  and  irregular 
and  the  limbs  cold.  From  this  state  of  imminent  death  the  patient  was  rescued  by 
hypodermic  injections  of  sulphuric  ether  and  sinapisms,  after  which  reaction  took  place 
rapidly  (Bull,  de  Therap.,  cii.  353). 

The  sedative,  or  rather  the  depressing,  action  of  apomorphine  has  been  occasionally 
invoked.  Thus  in  the  case  of  a boy  in  maniacal  delirium , with  dilated  and  insensible 
pupils,  one-tenth  of  a grain  given  hypodermically  produced  in  a few  minutes  calmness, 
and  then  vomiting,  after  which  he  slept,  and  the  next  morning  was  well.  Several  cases 
of  hystero-epilepsy  are  recorded  in  which  the  same  method  was  successfully  employed 
( Times  and  Gaz .,  Dec.  1883,  p.  655  ; Therap.  Gaz .,  ix.  255).  In  chorea  it  has  produced 
subsidence  of  the  agitation  and  arrested  persistent  hiccup.  In  India  sunstroke  has  been 
treated  in  the  same  way,  one-sixteenth  of  a grain  producing  emesis,  followed  by  a speedy 
reduction  of  temperature  and  return  of  consciousness  ( Practitioner , xxiv.  456).  It  is 
said  to  have  produced  relaxation  of  a rigid  os  uteri , and  it  has  been  given  hypodermically 
with  negative  or  only  palliative  results  in  true  epilepsy.  In  a case  of  attempted  suicide 
by  a man  who  took  the  estimated  quantity  of  6 grains  of  strychnine,  one-third  of  a grain 
of  apomorphine  was  injected  hypodermically  within  half  an  hour.  Immediately  the 
spasms  subsided,  vomiting  took  place,  and  the  patient  recovered  (Glisan).  It  has  also 
been  given  hypodermically  in  the  convulsions  of  children,  with  the  effect  of  arresting  them 
(Med.  News , 1882,  p.  391).  It  has  been  administered  similarly  in  cases  of  opiumpoi- 
soning and  alcoholic  intoxication , and  dissipated  their  effects  rapidly  after  free  vomiting 
had  taken  place  ( Practitioner , xxx.  211).  In  a case  of  poisoning  with  oil  of  hitter  almond 
it  acted  as  a prompt  and  sufficient  emetic  in  the  dose  of  one-eighth  of  a grain  hypoder- 
mically. Half  a grain  administered  in  the  same  manner  in  three  minutes  produced 
copious  emesis  in  a case  of  poisoning  with  carbolic  acid , and  the  patient  recovered. 
Further  illustrative  eases  have  been  furnished  by  Dr.  Tait  ( Therap . Gaz.,  xiii.  242).  A 
similar  result  occurred  when  a man  had  been  poisoned  by  swallowing  1 i pints  of  kerosene. 
The  like  expedient  has  been  used  to  cause  the  expulsion  of  a foreign  body  from  the 
oesophagus.  In  quinsy,  when  swallowing  is  very  difficult,  this  medicine  may  be  used 


A QUA. 


237 


hypodermically  to  excite  vomiting  with  the  intention  of  breaking  the  abscess.  It  is 
generally  thought  to  be  contraindicated  in  affections  of  the  air-passages,  on  account  of 
its  tendency  to  produce  a profuse  watery  secretion  in  the  bronchia;  yet  it  has  sometimes 
been  given  in  emetic  doses,  and  with  advantage,  in  cases  of  suffocative  catarrh , bronchor- 
rhcea ."and  foreign  bodies  in  the  larynx  or  trachea,  and  has  been  recommended  in  mem- 
branous croup.  ‘ Smidowitsch  used  it  in  the  latter  disease  and  in  spasmodic  croup  with 
alleged  advantage,  giving  large  doses,  such  as  1 grain  in  the  course  of  a day  for  several 
successive  days  {Med.  Record , xvii.  346).  In  minute  doses  it  appears  to  be  applicable  to 
the  conditions  which  antimony  is  used  to  remove,  especially  when,  in  laryngitis  or  bron- 
chitis, the  mucous  membrane  is  dry  and  irritable.  Kormann,  Kushel,  and  others  have 
found  it  serviceable  in  bronchitis  and  catarrhal  pneumonia.  It  was  given  in  minute  doses 
of  from  T4r,T  to  ^ of  a grain,  and,  without  causing  vomiting  or  interfering  with  digestion, 
it  converted  the  dry  into  moist  rales,  facilitated  expectoration,  and  reduced  the  fever 
(j Med.  Record , xx.  290). 

The  use  of  this  product  is  very  limited.  Fortunately,  the  cases  for  which  it  is  adapted 
hypodermically  are  few  indeed.  * The  difficulty  of  preserving  it  forms  another  obstacle 
to  its  employment,  although  it  is  alleged  not  to  lose  its  special  mode  of  action  when  its 
color  changes  to  a green  or  olive  tint.  Even  this  change  is  said  to  be  preventible  by 
adding  glycerin  or  glucose  to  its  solution,  while  the  former  renders  muriate  of  apomor- 
phine  more  soluble.  The  dose  of  this  compound  is  variously  stated.  By  the  German 
Pharmacopoeia  the  maximum  is  Gm.  0.02  (gr.  ^),  and  the  minimum  daily  quantity  Gm. 
0.10  (gr.  11).  In  the  British  Pharmacopoeia  (extra),  gr.  to  Jg  as  an  expectorant; 
gr.  yV  to  i as  an  emetic  by  the  mouth ; to  i gr.  hypodermically  are  the  doses  recom- 
mended. For  young  children  the  dose  by  the  mouth  or  subcutaneously  should  not 
exceed  Gm.  0.002  (gr.  ^?). 

AQUA,  U.  S.,  Br . — Water. 

Eau,  Fr.  ; Trb.sser,  G. ; Agua , Sp. ; Acqua , It. 

Natural  water  in  its  purest  attainable  state  ((7.  S.),  cleared,  if  necessary,  by  filtra- 
tion (Br.). 

Composition  H.,0.  Molecular  weight  17.96. 

Properties. — Water  is  often  combined  in  nature,  as  in  many  crystalline  compounds, 
and  is  very  abundant  in  the  free  state.  Natural  water  is  an  excellent  solvent  for  most 
gases  and  many  salts,  but  it  is  rarely  found  pure;  B.  M.  Brackenridge  and  Dr.  E. 
Stieren  observed  (1860)  chemically  pure  water  in  the  spring  of  a ravine  known  as  “ the 
Dark  Hollow  ” in  Allegheny  county,  Pa.  With  few  exceptions  spring-water  contains 
carbon  dioxide  in  solution,  and  by  its  agency  dissolves  some  calcium  carbonate  and 
sulphate  and  magnesium  carbonate  from  the  soil.  Such  water  precipitates  an  insoluble 
lime-soap  from  solution  of  ordinary  soap,  and  is  called  hard.  This  • hardness  may  be 
removed  by  expelling  the  excess  of  carbonic  acid  by  heat  ; the  carbonate  and  a portion 
of  the  calcium  sulphate,  also  magnesium  carbonate  if  present,  are  thus  precipitated  A 
similar  precipitation  takes  place  in  rivers,  from  the  water  of  which,  owing  to  its  extended 
surface,  the  carbon  dioxide  is  mostly  given  off  ; hence  river-water  is  usually  soft.  Both 
spring-  and  river-waters  contain  variable  quantities  of  salts  of  alkalies  in  solution,  of 
which  they  cannot  be  deprived  except  by  distillation. 

Rain-  and  snow-water  are  free  from  such  saline  compounds,  except  the  portions  falling 
first ; these  contain  particles  of  dust  and  various  organic  and  inorganic  matters  which 
had  been  suspended  or  dissolved  in  the  air.  Among  them,  ammonia,  iodine,  chlorine,  and 
nitric  acid  have  been  found,  the  latter  more  particularly  during  a thunder-storm,  the  for- 
mer two  elements  occasionally,  while  ammonia  or  allied  compounds  are  always  present  in 
inhabited  regions.  It  is  advisable,  therefore,  to  collect  rain-water  only  some  time  after 
the  rain  has  commenced  falling,  and  as  far  removed  from  dwellings  as  possible ; it  will 
then  contain  a little  carbonic  acid,  which  has  been  dissolved  from  the  air. 

The  purity  of  running  and  well-water  is  affected  by  the  nature  of  the  surrounding  soil 
and  the  proximity  of  decaying  animal  or  vegetable  matter,  the  decomposition-products  of 
which  may  find  an  outlet  into  the  former  by  natural  drainage,  sometimes  from  a consid- 
erable distance,  and  render  such  water  unwholesome  and  unfit  for  many  purposes.  The 
refreshing  taste  of  spring-water  is  mainly  due  to  the  carbonic  acid  dissolved  therein.  Of 
secondary  importance  is  the  small  quantity  of  saline  compounds  contained  in  it.  When 
the  latter  is  permanently  increased  beyond  a certain  quantity  the  spring  is  called  a min- 
eral spring.  (See  Aqta:  Miner  ales.) 


238 


AQUA. 


Most  spring  waters  are  unfit  for  chemical  and  pharmaceutical  uses,  hut  may  often 
become  adapted  therefor  after  boiling  and  filtering.  River-water,  if  not  naturally  bright 
and  transparent,  is  improved  by  filtration  through  sand  and  charcoal,  and  may  then  be 
employed  if  nearly  free  from  organic  matter,  the  amount  of  which  may  be  approximately 
ascertained  by  a dilute  solution  of  potassium  permanganate,  which  will  permanently 
impart  its  color  to  the  water  as  soon  as  the  organic  matter  and  other  deoxidizing  agents 
accidentally  present  have  been  destroyed  or  oxidized.  But  distilled  water  is  best  for  all 
the  purposes  indicated.  It  taste  is  insipid,  owing  to  the  absence  of  carbonic  acid  or  to 
the  minute  quantity  of  this  gas  absorbed  by  contact  with  air. 

At  the  temperature  of  0°  C.  (32°  F.)  water  freezes,  forming  transparent  crystals  of 
ice ; if  entirely  undisturbed,  it  may  be  cooled  to  several  degrees  below  this  point  without 
freezing,  and  if  now  slightly  agitated  will  at  once  congeal,  the  temperature  rising  to  the 
freezing-point  in  consequence  of  the  liberation  of  latent  heat.  Water  impregnated  with 
salts,  particularly  such  as  are  readily  soluble  in  it,  freezes  at  a lower  temperature,  the  ice 
being  free  from  the  compounds  which  were  dissolved  in  the  water.  Hence,  water  equal 
in  purity  to  distilled  water  may  be  obtained  by  melting  perfectly  clear  and  transparent 
ice  under  conditions  which  preclude  the  admixture  of  dust  and  other  impurities.  Sea- 
water, which  has  the  specific  gravity  1.027  and  contains  about  3J  per  cent,  of  salts,  yields 
ice  of  as  great  purity  as  river-water. 

The  boiling-point  of  water  is  100°  C.  (212°  F.),  and  rises  beyond  this  temperature  if  . 
notable  quantities  of  salts,  etc.  are  dissolved  in  it  or  if  the  pressure  is  increased ; on  the 
reduction  of  pressure  water  boils  at  a lower  temperature. 

The  density  of  distilled  water  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  or  at  15.5°  C.  (60°  F.)  is  by  general 
consent  regarded  as  the  unit  by  which  the  density  of  liquid  and  solid  bodies  is  measured. 
In  Europe,  however,  this  unit  is  sometimes  taken  from  water  at  its  greatest  density,  and 
several  of  the  tables  published  in  the  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia  (1880)  are  based  upon  this 
unit.  The  specific  gravity  of  water  decreases  with  the  rise  of  temperature,  and  increases 
gradually  as  the  temperature  is  lowered  until  -f-  4°  C.  (39°  F.)  is  reached,  when  it  has  its 
maximum  density,  becomes  lighter  again  toward  the  freezing-point,  and  expands  very 
considerably  when  passing  into  the  solid  state,  ice  having  the  specific  gravity  0.91G. 
When  converted  into  vapor,  water  expands  to  nearly  seventeen  hundred  times  its  bulk, 
and  forms  a transparent  and  colorless  gas  having  the  specific  gravity  0.455  at  100°  C. 
(212°  F.)  ; it  has  therefore  less  than  one-half  the  density  of  atmospheric  air.  When 
mixed  with  air  it  condenses  into  minute  drops,  to  which  the  opaqueness  of  steam  is  due ; 
the  over-saturation  of  air  with  aqueous  vapor  causes  a similar  condensation  in  the  atmo- 
sphere, hence  the  appearance  of  clouds. 

Tests  Of  Purity. — Water  is  “ a colorless  limpid  liquid,  without  odor  and  taste  at 
ordinary  temperatures,  and  of  a perfectly  neutral  reaction,  remaining  odorless  while 
being  heated  to  boiling.  The  transparency  or  color  of  water  should  not  be  affected  by 
hydrogen  sulphide  or  ammonium  sulphide  test-solutions  (absence  of  metallic  impurities). 
The  limits  of  impurities  are  prescribed  as  follows  : It  should  remain  unaffected  by  mer- 
curic chloride  test-solution  (limit  of  ammonia).  On  evaporating  1000  Cc.  of  water  on  a 
water-bath,  it  should  not  leave  a residue  weighing  more  than  0.5  Gm.  (limit  of  soluble 
salts),  and  this  residue,  when  ignited,  should  not  carbonize  nor  evolve  ammoniacal  or  acid 
vapors.  If  200  Cc.  of  water  be  acidulated  with  hydrochloric  acid  and  heated  to  boiling 
and  0.5  Cc.  of  barium  chloride  test-solution  added,  the  liquid,  cooled  and  filtered,  should 
give  no  further  precipitate  on  the  addition  of  a few  drops  of  barium  chloride  test-solution, 
even  on  standing  (limit  of  sulphates).  If  100  Cc.  of  water  be  acidulated  with  nitric  acid, 
and  0.5  Cc.  of  decinormal  silver  nitrate  solution  be  added,  the  filtered  liquid  should  not 
be  affected  by  the  subsequent  addition  of  a few  drops  of  silver  nitrate  test  solution  (limit 
of  chlorides).  If  5 Cc.  of  water  mixed  with  a few  drops  of  diphenylamine  test-solution, 
be  carefully  poured  upon  about  5 Cc.  of  sulphuric  acid  contained  in  a test-tube,  so 
as  to  form  a separate  layer,  no  blue  color  should  be  formed  at  the  line  of  contact  of  the 
two  liquids  (limit  of  nitrates).  If  100  Cc.  of  water  be  acidulated  with  diluted  sulphuric 
acid,  and  a few  drops  of  zinc-iodide  starch  test-solution  subsequently  added,  the  liquid 
should  not  at  once  assume  a blue  or  violet  color  (absence  of  nitrites).  On  heating  100 
Cc.  of  water,  acidulated  with  10  Cc.  of  diluted  sulphuric  acid,  to  boiling,  and  subsequently 
adding  0.5  Cc.  of  decinormal  potassium  permanganate  solution,  the  color  of  the  liquid 
should  not  be  completely  destroyed  by  boiling  it  for  ten  minutes  (limit  of  organic  or  other 
oxidizable  matters). — U.  S. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — The  utility  of  water  as  a solvent  and  vehicle  is  well 
known  ; it  is  employed  in  preparing  most  chemicals,  constitutes  the  solvent  of  the  medi- 


AQUA. 


239 


cated  waters,  decoctions,  and  infusions,  and  most  solutions  and  syrups,  and  as  an  addition 
to  alcohol  is  present  in  many  of  the  fluid  extracts,  tinctures,  etc. 

Action  and  Uses  Of  Cold  Water. — Water  constitues  by  far  the  larger  portion 
of  the  bulk  of  all  organized  beings,  and  is  essential  to  their  organic  constitution  as  well  as 
to  the  molecular  actions  and  movements  by  which  life  is  manifested.  It  is  important, 
therefore,  as  an  article  of  food  which  directly  supplies  one  constituent  of  the  body ; it  is 
not  less  so  as  a means  of  promoting  the  solution  of  solid  food  in  the  digestive  organs  and 
facilitating  its  absorption  : it  is  equally  the  solvent  of  all  the  secretions  and  excretions,  and 
the  chief  vehicle  by  which  the  latter  are  carried  out  of  the  body.  But  all  natural  water  is 
not  adapted  for  food.  The  greater  part  of  the  water  in  the  world  is  contained  in  the  ocean  ;* 
another  large  portion  consists  of  spring-  and  river-waters  which  are  so  mineralized  as  to 
be  unfit  for  ordinary  drinking,  or  of  other  waters  in  certain  sluggish  rivers  and  in 
marshes  which  contain  too  large  a portion  of  animal  or  vegetable  matter  to  be  whole- 
some. The  purest  natural  waters  are  rain-water,  which  is,  however,  insipid  and  contains 
but  little  air,  and  certain  springs  which  are  remarkable  for  their  purity  as  well  as  the 
vivacity  of  their  taste.  For  pharmaceutical,  and  indirectly  for  medicinal,  purposes 
water  must  be  deprived,  as  far  as  possible,  of  its  foreign  constituents — an  object  which 
is  most  perfectly  attained  by  distillation.  But  for  many  of  such  purposes  water  that  has 
been  boiled  or  filtered  rain-  or  snow-water  has  been  found  sufficiently  pure. 

In  a general  way,  water  acts  chiefly  as  a direct  means  of  modifying  the  temperature 
of  the  body.  But  the  mechanism  by  which  the  temperature  is  raised  or  lowered  is  iden- 
tical with  that  which  quickens  or  retards  organic  processes,  for  it  is  chiefly  upon  the 
degree  of  activity  of  the  latter  that  the  animal  temperature  depends.  Water  at  a tem- 
perature higher  than  that  of  the  body  is  a direct  stimulant  of  the  circulation,  and  there- 
fore of  all  the  functions ; cold  water,  on  the  other  hand,  robs  the  body  of  a portion  of  its 
caloric,  and  therefore  is  a direct  sedative  of  the  circulatory  and  the  other  functions.  But 
cold  may  indirectly  become  a physiological  stimulant,  since  it  is  a property  of  living- 
organisms  to  react  against  whatever  powerfully  tends  to  depress  them,  and  this  the  more 
vigorously  and  abruptly  the  depressing  influence  has  been  exerted.  Therefore,  cold 
applied  to  the  body  in  a certain  measure  and  for  a given  time  produces  a diminished  activity 
of  the  function,  which  is  followed  by  a degree  of  activity  greater  than  which  originally 
existed.  In  this  manner  the  primary  effect  of  heat  and  the  secondary  effect  of  cold 
resemble  one  another,  and  the  same  purpose  may  be  accomplished  by  either  or  by 
both  successively.  But  cold  and  heat  are  conventional  terms  ; they  do  not  designate 
definite  temperatures.  The  normal  animal  temperature  being  about  98°  F.,  whatever  is 
higher  than  this  may  be  described  as  heat,  whatever  is  lower  as  cold.  Hence  different 
degrees  of  heat  may  be  expected  to  produce  different  grades  of  effect,  from  a mild  to  a 
powerful  stimulation,  and  even  to  the  destruction  of  vitality  ; and  in  like  manner  cool- 
ness, cold,  congelation,  etc.  are  terms  applied  to  the  different  degrees  in  which  caloric 
has  been  abstracted.  It  is  evident,  therefore,  that  the  action  of  water,  and  consequently 
its  use  in  medicine,  will  vary  between  very  remote  extremes — that  it  may  stimulate 
moderately  or  violently,  and  soothe  gently  or  depress  more  or  less  profoundly,  according 
to  the  conditions  which  have  been  pointed  out.  The  effects  of  cold  water  upon  the  living 
body  are  complex  : they  comprise  the  direct  abstraction  of  caloric,  the  diminished  pro- 
duction of  it,  and  a multitude  of  reflex  effects  due  to  the  relations  between  the  skin  and 
the  internal  organs.  The  loss  of  caloric  by  the  contact  of  cold  water  with  the  skin  is 
more  or  less  completely  balanced  by  the  generation  of  caloric  through  the  organic 
changes  which  are  incessantly  active  in  every  tissue.  Hence  the  interior  of  the  body  in 
health  maintains  a certain  average  temperature,  or  within  two  or  three  degrees  of  it, 
whatever  may  be  the  temperature  of  the  surrounding  medium.  With  the  abstraction  of 
caloric  all  the  vital  processes  are  depressed,  the  skin  grows  pale  and  shrivelled,  and  the 
internal  organs  are  overloaded  with  blood  ; the  pulse  beats  slowly,  the  secretions  are  dim- 
inished, and  the  muscles  torpid.  Taken  internally,  cold  water  occasions  a sense  of  cool- 
ness in  the  throat  and  stomach,  and  afterward  in  the  rest  of  the  body  ; but  if  the  water 
be  very  cold  and  taken  in  large  quantity,  it  may  produce  in  the  stomach  severe  pains 
which  radiate  to  the  chest  and  abdomen  and  give  a violent  shock  to  the  whole  nervous 
system — effects  which  are  accompanied  by  spasm  or  by  collapse,  or  by  both  in  succession. 
If  these  effects  are  not  fatal,  reaction  with  fever  is  apt  to  occur.  The  transient  applica- 
tion of  cold  to  the  skin  is  so  quickly  followed  by  reaction  that  the  effects  seem  to  be 
those  of  direct  stimulation  ; the  cutaneous  circulation  becomes  more  active,  a sense  of 
warmth  with  gentle  perspiration  ensues,  and  through  this  reflux  and  flux  of  the  blood  and 
the  excitation  of  the  nervous  system  all  the  functions  are  quickened.  Indeed,  the  chief 


240 


AQUA. 


value  of  cold  water  applied  to  the  entire  skin  in  disease  consists  less  in  its  direct  action 
as  cold  than  in  its  indirect  action  as  a functional  stimulant.  Yet  the  abstraction  of 
caloric  may  in  certain  exceptional  cases  be  useful.  The  topical  effects  of  cold  water  as 
distingished  from  those  of  cold  applied  in  other  ways  are  diminished  local  circulation  and 
calorification,  followed  by  a more  or  less  distinct  reaction  whenever  the  action  of  the 
cold  is  suspended. 

According,  then,  to  the  circumstances  under  which  it  acts,  cold  water  may  be  refriger- 
ant, excitant,  sedative,  astringent,  tonic,  debilitating,  or  perturbating.  It  may  be  used 
to  check  febrile  and  inflammatory  processes,  to  stimulate  a torpid  and  oppressed  nervous 
•system,  to  arrest  spasm,  to  relieve  congestion  and  pain,  to  abate  excessive  secretions, 
haemorrhage,  etc.  Among  the  diseases  in  which  it  has  proved  most  useful  are  continued 
fevers  in  which  the  temperature  is  extremely  high,  and  provided  no  intercurrent  inflam- 
mation complicates  them.  Cold  water  in  the  form  of  douche,  baths,  sponging,  and  wet 
wrappings  has  been  employed  with  decided  benefit  in  many  cases  of  typhus  fever , typhoid 
fever , scarlet  fever , variola , etc.  ; and  the  douche  or  other  similar  shock  with  cold  water  has 
proved  curative  in  various  forms  of  intermittent  fever.  It  may  be  used  in  either  of 
several  conditions:  (1)  To  reduce  hyperpyrexia;  (2)  to  provoke  a reaction  in  the 
rapidly  adynamic  forms  of  these  diseases;  and  (3)  to  lessen  the  delirium,  stupor,  spasm, 
and  other  cerebral  and  spinal  symptoms  at  the  height  of  the  attack.  Of  these  stupor 
is  by  far  the  most  important  in  relation  to  the  use  of  cold  water.  But  apart  from 
quite  exceptional  cases,  we  believe  that  all  the  benefits  derivable  from  cold  immersion 
or  the  douche  bath  may  be  obtained  by  simply  sponging  the  skin  repeatedly  with  cold  water 
and  giving  cool  water  to  drink  as  much  as  the  patient  desires  or  tolerates,  for  the  use  of 
cold  water  as  a drink  in  fevers  is  prescribed  by  instinct  as  well  as  reason.  Much  atten- 
tion has  been  given  to  this  subject.  Naunyn,  after  lengthened  observation  of  its  use,  had  his 
confidence  strengthened  in  the  hydriatic  treatment  of  typhoid  fever  { Arcliiv  f exper. 
Pathol etc.,  xviii.  116).  In  cases  adapted  to  it — i.  e.  where  the  axillary  temperature 
exceeded  103°  F. — he  applied  the  cold  bath  (72°  to  82°  F.)  as  often  as  eight  times,  and 
occasionally  even  twelve  times,  in  twenty-four  hours,  and  each  bath  lasted  from  five  to 
ten  minutes.  But  only  such  temperature  and  duration  of  the  bath  were  permitted  when 
the  patient’s  condition  plainly  warranted  them.  In  other  cases  baths  at  90°  to  95°  F. 
were  preferred,  and  in  others,  again,  at  a temperature  intermediate  between  these 
extremes.  The  frequent  repetition  of  the  bath  just  mentioned  does  not  harmonize  with 
the  explanation  given  by  this  author  of  the  utility  of  lukewarm  and  warm  baths,  for  he 
attributes  it  to  their  increasing  the  activity  of  the  skin,  by  which  the  brain  and  other 
internal  organs  are  relieved  and  cutaneous  and  renal  elimination  is  quickened.  But  the 
method  now  described  is  less  vigorous  than  that  of  Brand,  its  chief  apostle,  which 
requires  that  the  patient  should  every  three  hours  be  bathed  for  fifteen  minutes  in  water 
at  60°  F. ; and  this  rule  is  not  allowed  on  any  account  to  be  relaxed  {Med.  Record , xxxv. 
436).  V.  Ziemssen’s  views  are  more  in  harmony  with  those  of  Naunyn,  for  he  recom- 
mends that  the  sudden  shock  of  very  cold  water  should  be  avoided ; that  the  bath  at 
first  should  have  a temperature  of  86°  to  90°  and  be  gradually  reduced  by  the  addition 
of  cool  water  to  71°  or  72° ; that  the  immersion  should  not  last  longer  than  fifteen 
minutes,  and  the  repetition  be  from  two  to  six  times  a day  ; and  that  after  the  bath  the 
patient  should  be  allowed  to  rest  for  a quarter  of  an  hour  wrapped  in  a warm  blanket,  then 
rubbed  dry,  clothed  in  clean  linen,  and  allowed  to  sleep  {Jour.  Amer.  Med.  Assoc .,  viii. 
533).  The  use  of  cold  baths  in  typhoid  fever  has,  however,  been  amply  discussed  at  home 
and  abroad,  and  the  weight  of  testimony  is  opposed  to  it  as  an  ordinary  treatment.  Even 
in  the  cases  most  favorable  to  its  use  no  adequate  comparison  has  been  made  of  its  results 
with  those  of  warm  baths ; and  its  alleged  superiority  to  ordinary  measures  cannot  be 
admitted  unless  a comparison  be  also  made  with  cases  treated  expectantly — a method 
which  has  hitherto  afforded  the  lowest  mortality-rate.  This,  it  is  true,  has  been  done  by 
Brand  {Centralbl.  f.  Ther.,  v.  510),  who  (incorrectly)  alleges  that  the  mortality  under 
the  expectant  treatment  varies  between  13  and  32  per  cent.,  while  under  the  hydriatic 
method  it  is  between  0 and  5 per  cent.  Baruch,  in  this  country,  adopted  similar  conclu- 
sions {Med.  Record , xxxi.  34;  xxxv.  176,  434,  etc.),  and  so  did  Yogi  in  Munich 
{Therap.  Monatscheft .,  1889,  p.  129),  and  Josias  in  Paris  {Amer.  Med,  Jour.  Sci .,  Jan. 
1890,  p.  73).  But,  as  we  have  said,  the  fever  is  not  the  whole  of  any  febrile  disease, 
nor  is  an  artificial  reduction  of  temperature  a cure  of  the  affection  in  which  fever 
occurs.  As  Dujardin-Beaumetz  insists,  the  treatment  by  cold  water  “is  and  must  con- 
tinue to  be  suited  only  to  exceptional  cases.  To  abstract  animal  heat  by  physical  means 
does  not  hinder  the  generation  of  caloric.”  Still  less  can  good  be  expected  from  the 


AQUA. 


241 


barbarous  expedient  that  has  been  proposed  of  controlling  the  febrile  action  of  the  heart 
by  applying  over  it  a bag  of  pounded  ice  or  of  cold  water.  The  shower-bath  or  spray- 
bath,  which  has  been  suggested  as  a more  powerful  antipyretic  than  the  immersion  bath 
(Placzek,  Therap.  Monatsch 1887,  p.  133),  may  be  ranked  as  only  a shade  less  cruel 
than  the  expedient  just  dismissed.  Many  years  ago  (1867)  Skoda  used  ice-poultices  in 
the  treatment  of  pneumonia , but  they  were  soon  discarded.  The  application  of  ice-bags 
to  the  chest  in  this  disease  has  been  lately  advocated  by  Lees  ( Lancet , Nov.  1889,  p. 
890),  but  does  not  appear  to  have  commanded  the  confidence  of  physicians.  Among  its 
dangers  is  the  occurrence  of  syncope. 

Cool  drinks  are  essential  in  inflammation  of  the  stomach.  Pounded  ice  mixed  with  bran 
forms  a most  efficient  poultice  for  sore  throat , including  tonsillitis  and  diphtheria, , and  its 
efficacy  is  increased  by  ice  melting  in  the  mouth.  The  same  or  any  other  convenient  mode 
of  applying  cold  has  often  been  successful  in  preventing  the  formation  of  abscesses , 
mammary,  inguinal,  and  others.  Some  physicians  have  been  bold  enough  to  treat  pneu- 
monia by  cold  baths  at  68°,  and  even  at  59°  F.,  repeated  several  times  a day,  and  to  claim 
for  the  method  an  exceptionally  low  rate  of  mortality.  They  have  at  least  demonstrated 
the  marvellous  power  of  the  animal  economy  to  resist  the  injurious  assaults  of  those  who 
prefer  heroic  measures  to  the  spontaneous  evolutions  of  nature.  The  application  of  wet 
compresses  around  the  inflamed  joints  in  acute  articular  rheumatism  has  not  produced 
the  bad  consequences  which  it  was  supposed  would  follow  from  a repercussion  of  the 
morbid  fluxion,  and  such  applications,  when  made  with  an  alkaline  liquid,  have  often 
proved  extremely  salutary.  The  general  cold  bath  has  been  used  in  this  disease  with 
hyperpyrexia,  but  sometimes  with  the  result  of  inducing  inflammatory  complications  of 
the  heart  and  lungs,  and  sometimes  of  causing  death  ( Practitioner , x.  79;  xi.  263).  But 
in  a certain  number  of  cases  of  hyperpyrexia  with  symptoms  of  cerebral  rheumatism — a 
complication  of  the  gravest  description — cold  baths  have  appeared  to  mitigate  the  gravity 
of  the  attack  and  bring  about  a cure  (Woillez,  Bull,  de  Tlier.,  xcix.  344 ; Baynaud,  Arch, 
gen.,  Jan.  1881,  p.  105).  The  average  temperature  of  the  baths  used  in  these  cases  may 
be  stated  as  68°  F.,  and  the  extremes  as  60°  and  75°  F.  On  reviewing  the  cases  the 
relation  between  the  cerebral  symptoms  and  the  hyperpyrexia  is  far  from  being  apparent, 
and  the  benefit  derived  from  cold  baths  appears  to  have  been  due  far  more  to  the  calm- 
ing influence  of  the  low  temperature  upon  the  nervous  system  than  upon  the  mere 
abstraction  of  caloric.  (Compare  Carrington,  British  Med.  Jour.,  Mar.  5,  1887.)  Cold 
water  is  one  of  the  best  applications  for  a variety  of  local  inflammations,  such  as  burns, 
scalds,  intertrigo,  and  the  stings  of  insects.  Its  use  in  a foot-bath  or  in  a douche  is  famil- 
iar as  a means  of  preventing  cold  feet  and  chilblains.  Cold  is  one  of  the  most  potent 
means  of  arresting  lisemorrhage,  whether  from  the  nose,  lungs,  stomach,  bowels,  or  uterus, 
or  from  wounds.  In  such  cases  it  should  be  applied  as  nearly  as  possible  to  the  source 
of  bleeding.  In  uterine  haemorrhage  ice  and  iced  water  have  been  introduced  into  the 
uterus  with  complete  success  and  without  injury.  But  it  is  less  generally  efficient  than 
hot  water.  Scrofula,  chlorosis , and  anaemia  are  diseases  which  have  some  elements  in 
common,  chief  among  which  is  impoverishment  of  the  blood.  Whether  this  condition  be 
primary  or  secondary,  the  use  of  cold  water  internally  and  externally  improves  nutrition, 
and  thereby  tends  more  or  less  to  moderate  or  to  remove  the  defects  of  nutrition  upon 
which  the  diseases  depend.  It  is  in  this  way — that  is,  by  its  direct  stimulant  and  indirectly 
corroborant  action — that  cold  water  in  the  forms  of  baths,  and  especially  salt  and  surf  baths, 
tends  to  remedy  nervous  exhaustion  produced  by  mental  or  physical  excesses.  A state  of 
debility,  here  as  elsewhere,  requires  that  so  powerful  an  agent  as  this  should  be  cautiously 
applied.  In  most  of  the  diseases  last  referred  to  cold  water  is  used  as  a stimulant  or  as 
an  indirect  agent  for  promoting  perspiration,  but  in  some  others  its  aid  is  sought  for  its 
direct  and  continuous  agency  in  repressing  vascular  action  and  its  consequences.  Thus  in 
all  cases  of  hyperaemia  of  the  brain,  whether  arterial  or  venous,  the  excitement  of  the  one 
and  the  stupor  of  the  other  condition  may  be  mitigated  by  cold  water  duly  applied  to  the 
head.  No  medicinal  remedy  for  insomnia  is  so  certain  and,  at  the  same  time,  so  harmless 
as  cold  water  poured  upon  the  scalp  and  back  of  the  neck.  Irrigation  with  cold  water,  or 
the  constant  application  of  an  ice-poultice  to  the  scalp,  with  the  hair  closely  clipped, 
and,  still  more  powerful,  the  cold  douche,  will  often  succeed  in  securing  sleep,  allaying 
violent  delirium,  or  restoring  consciousness  in  deep  coma.  Insanity,  when  acute  and 
accompanied  with  heat  of  head,  yields  to  the  same  method,  especially  if  the  body  be  at 
the  same  time  immersed  in  a bath  at  95°  F.  and  the  treatment  be  continued  daily  for 
several  hours  at  a time.  In  these  various  affections  a water-proof  pillow  containing  ice' 
or  iced  water  is  very  convenient.  The  same  method  is  entirely  applicable  to  the  treat- 


242 


AQUA. 


ment  of  mania-a-potu  in  violent  patients  and  for  the  relief  of  narcotism  in  poisoning/  by 
opium.  In  congestive  sunstroke  the  brain  symptoms  are  due  not  only  to  an  excess  of 
blood  within  the  cranium,  but  also  to  the  excessive  heat  of  the  blood  itself,  which  is 
denoted  by  a surface  temperature  of  109°  to  111°  F.  Cold  water  and  ice  frictions 
appear  to  be  the  most  successful,  as  they  are  plainly  the  most  natural,  remedies  for  this 
fatal  affection,  but  their  efficacy  depends  greatly  upon  their  prompt  application.  (Com- 
pare Packard,  Am.  Jour.  Med.  Sci.,  June,  1888,  p.  554.)  Cold  affusions  have  also  been 
used  to  restore  a person  struck  by  lightning  ( Therap . Gaz .,  xi.  707). 

Most  of  the  spasmodic  affections  may  be  treated  by  cold  water.  Hysteria  is  favorably 
modified  by  cold  bathing,  as  by  all  influences  that  strengthen  the  system  generally  and 
the  nervous  functions  in  particular.  Convulsions  of  whatever  sort,  attended  with  fulness 
of  the  cerebral  blood-vessels,  should  be  treated  by  cold  applications  to  the  head  and 
the  nape  of  the  neck  ; coma  with  stertor,  and  also  spasms  induced  by  anaesthetics  in  very 
nervous  women,  have  been  relieved  by  applying  ice  over  the  side  of  the  neck.  Epilepsy 
has  been  favorably  affected  by  the  use  of  ice-bags  to  the  cervical  spine,  and  tetanus  of 
the  idiopathic  form  has  been  repeatedly  cured  in  ancient  and  in  modern  times  by  cold  affu- 
sions. Even  traumatic  tetanus  has  got  well  under  the  direct  application  of  ice  to  the 
spine.  A number  of  cases  of  anomalous  paralytic  and  spasmodic  affections,  caused  by 
fatigue,  fright,  and  other  mental  impressions,  have  been  cured  by  a course  of  hydropathic 
regimen  after  the  failure  of  other  remedies  (Friedmann,  Monthly  ALst .,  vi.  540).  Chorea 
was  formerly  treated  with  cold  affusions  on  the  spine  and  by  the  ice-bag,  but  the  former 
was  apt  to  affright  the  timid  children  who  are  often  the  subjects  of  the  disease,  and  the 
latter  was  difficult  of  application.  Sulphuric  ether  applied  to  the  spine  in  spray  is  per- 
haps more  efficient,  but  is  only  palliative.  Cold  bathing,  and  especially  sea-bathing,  is 
of  great  value  in  this  disease.  Chronic  nervous  affections,  whether  neuralgic  or  purely 
functional,  are  so  generally  associated  with  anaemia,  a state  that  implies  debility,  and  imper- 
fect calorification  and  mental  depression,  that  the  subjects  of  them  are  rarely  tolerant 
of  a treatment  by  cold  water.  This  is  emphatically  true  of  nervous  disorders  that 
involve  a chronic  and  substantial  lesion  of  the  brain  or  spinal  cord.  It  is,  however,  true 
that  to  distinguish  a substantial  from  a functional  disease,  of  the  nervous  system  espe- 
cially, is  extremely  difficult,  and  the  treatment  by  cold,  as  by  other  remedies,  must  be 
tentatively  employed.  Cold  ablutions,  and  also  ice-poultices,  have  been  found  efficient  in 
arresting  spasmodic  croup.  Among  diseases  of  the  digestive  organs  amenable  to  treat- 
ment by  cold  water  is  constipation , as  the  oldest  and  most  recent  records  demonstrate. 
It  has  often  been  employed  successfully  by  causing  the  patient  to  walk  upon  a cold 
stone  pavement,  by  dashing  cold  water  over  the  limbs,  or  by  applying  it  to  the  abdo- 
men by  means  of  wet  compresses,  while  copious  draughts  of  the  same  liquid  were  taken. 
Friction  of  the  abdomen  with  lumps  of  ice  has  been  particularly  recommended  in  such 
cases  ( Centralbl . f.  Therap .,  vi.  19).  These  methods  have  been  successfully  employed  to 
overcome  the  obstinate  constipation  of  lead  colic.  Apparently  hopeless  intussusception  of 
the  bowel  appears  to  have  been  overcome  by  large  enemata  of  ice-water  (Kormann,  Prac- 
titioner, xxv.  212). 

In  surgery  the  applications  of  cold  water  are  important  and  numerous.  It  is  the  most 
convenient  as  well  as  the  most  efficient  remedy  for  sprains  and  contusions , including  those 
to  which  a joint  has  been  subjected  by  its  dislocation  or  the  soft  parts  by  fractures  of 
bones,  etc.  The  full  benefit  of  the  treatment  is  best  secured  by  its  earliest  possible 
application  after  the  injury,  for  then  it  prevents  the  excessive  exudations  which 
embarrass  and  retard  the  cure.  The  utility  and  the  mode  of  action  of  the  remedy  are 
just  the  same  in  the  treatment  of  wounds  which  are  not  likely  to  unite  directly  or  by  the 
first  intention  ; and,  indeed,  even  these  heal  more  readily  under  its  use,  provided  that 
the  several  surfaces  are  maintained  in  close  apposition  ; while  contused  and  lacerated 
wounds,  whose  union  is  usually  hindered  by  inflammation,  close  all  the  more  readily 
when  this  process  is  abated  by  cold  water.  The  repressive  action  of  cold  water  is  well  illus- 
trated by  its  power  of  preventing  the  development  of  local  non-traumatic  inflammations, 
such  as  boils , carbuncles , whitlow , acute  orchitis , etc.  In  all  of  these  affections,  if  steadily 
maintained,  it  arrests  their  development,  but  its  intermittent  application  is  useless  or 
worse.  Ulcers , especially  of  an  indolent  and  ill-conditioned  sort,  are  often  cured  by  cold 
and  moisture  combined,  by  which  the  nutrition  of  the  part  is  rendered  more  active  and 
normal.  The  water  may  be  applied  on  compresses,  by  washing,  and,  above  all,  by  the 
douche.  The  two  former  are  the  most  appropriate  for  irritable,  and  the  last  for  indolent, 
ulcers.  The  repressive  power  of  cold  water  is  well  exhibited  in  the  treatment  of  burns 
and  scalds ; provided  that  it  be  applied  immediately  after  the  injury  and  steadily  kept  in 


AQUA. 


243 


operation,  it  will  tend  to  prevent  ulterior  changes  of  tissue  dependent  upon  inflamma- 
tion. The  more  extensive  the  injury  the  less  appropriate  does  this  method  become.  The 
strangulation  of  hernia  is  often  due  to  a distension  of  the  blood-vessels  of  the  tumor, 
and  in  so  far  the  reduction  may  be  facilitated  by  whatever  tends  to  disgorge  the  swell- 
ing of  its  blood ; cold  water  has  proved  efficient  for  this  purpose  in  many  cases.  Even 
ice  and  freezing  mixtures  have  been  applied  with  the  same  object,  but  they  are  not  free 
from  the  danger  of  producing  mortification.  In  like  manner,  certain  venous  dilatations  have 
been  diminished,  particularly  those  of  the  rectum , the  uterus , and  the  penis.  No  better 
palliative  for  haemorrhoids  exists  than  frequent  ablution  with  cold  water,  especially  after 
stool.  It  is  most  efficiently  applied  with  a sponge.  Acting  in  a similar  manner,  pellets  of 
ice  have  been  administered  to  produce  contraction  of  the  oesophagus  above  and  around  a 
foreign  body  impacted  in  it,  and  render  the  use  of  the  probang  more  efficient  (Bull,  de 
Therap..  cii.  374).  Ice  has  been  extensively  and  efficiently  employed  to  produce  anaes- 
thesia and  local  congelation,  and  facilitate  the  performance  of  many  minor  surgical 
operations,  such  as  opening  abscesses,  removing  tumors,  evidsion  of  toe-nails,  and  even  the 
destructions  of  cancers  by  chloride  of  zinc  and  their  obliteration  by  systematic  pressure 
(Arnott,  Times  and  Gazette , 1879,  i.  347,  396,  533).  The  hypodermic  injection  of  cold 
water  has  been  used  as  an  anodyne  in  neuralgia,  toothache , and  articular  rheumatism,  and 
as  a substitute  for  morphine  injections  where  it  was  desired  to  cure  the  habit  of  using  the 
latter.  That  the  mitigation  or  the  suspension  of  pain  by  this  operation  is  real  in  many 
cases  cannot  be  doubted,  but  it  is  almost  certain  that  such  relief  is  due,  chiefly  if  not 
entirely,  to  expectant  attention.  (See  Med.  News,  xii.  258,  361).  This  opinion  is 
strengthened  by  the  fact  than  the  effect  has  been  obtained  by  the  injection  of  warm  as 
well  as  if  cold  water.  Cold  water  or  ice  may  be  used  to  relieve  various  local  pains, 
whether  inflammatory  or  neuralgic.  Abscesses  are  examples  of  the  first,  and  neuralgia 
of  the  face  is  an  instance  of  the  second.  Sciatica  has  been  cured  by  congealing  the 
integuments  over  the  ischiatic  notch  by  means  of  a freezing  mixture,  or  by  the  spray  of 
chloride  of  methyl  (Jacoby.  Med.  Record,  xxxii.  473).  But  two  hundred  years  ago 
snow  was  applied  by  Bartholini  for  the  relief  of  neuralgia,  and  nearly  forty  years  ago 
freezing  mixtures  were  employed  by  Arnott  (Stille,  Therapeutics,  4th  ed.,  ii.  237). 

The  internal  use  of  cold  water  requires  to  be  cautiously  guarded ; the  risk  of  drinking 
it  too  freely  when  the  system  is  exhausted  by  heat  has  been  pointed  out.  It  is  not 
readily  absorbed  from  the  stomach  in  other  atonic  states  of  this  organ,  and  if  largely 
taken  during  or  too  near  a meal  it  is  very  apt  to  interfere  with  digestion.  It  should  not 
be  used  freely  during  pulmonary,  and  especially  bronchial  inflammations,  nor  in  diar- 
rhoea. It  is  better  tolerated  and  is  often  salutary  in  acute  dysentery.  Baths  at  a lower 
temperature  than  50°  F.  are  unsafe  for  children  and  old  persons  at  all  seasons,  and  when 
serious  disease  exists  of  any  organ  essential  to  life  the  temperature  should  not  be  lower 
than  75°.  In  any  case  cold  baths  should  be  of  very  short  duration,  and  active  or  passive 
exercise  used  during  and  after  them.  If  local  applications  of  cold  water  occasion  chill- 
iness, they  ought  not  to  be  continued.  Cold  baths  should  not  be  taken  immediately 
after  a meal,  nor  when  the  air  is  chilly,  nor  when  the  mind  is  distressed.  Early  morn- 
ing baths  are  invigorating,  but  cold  baths  before  bedtime  are  of  great  utility  in  summer 
by  rendering  sleep  sounder  and  more  refreshing.  In  cold  bathing  the  head  should 
always  be  wetted  before  the  rest  of  the  body,  and  after  the  bath  the  skin  should  be 
stimulated  by  rubbing  it  with  coarse  cloths. 

Local  cold  baths,  applied  to  the  head,  the  pelvis,  and  the  feet,  are  employed  to  relieve 
congestion  and  stimulate  the  circulation  in  these  parts,  and  thus  prevent  or  remove  the 
effects  of  vascular  stagnation.  Their  sedative  or  their  stimulant  operation  will  be  deter- 
mined by  their  duration,  the  temperature  of  the  water,  the  manipulations  employed  at 
the  same  time,  etc.  Silva  found  (Centralb.  f.  Ther .,  v.  183)  that  ice  applied  over  the  heart 
increased  the  tone  of  that  organ  and  of  the  arteries  and  lowered  the  temperature  of  the 
blood.  He  used  it  efficiently  in  low  fevers  and  functional  heart  disorders,  in  the  collapse 
of  alcoholic  intoxication,  in  congestion  of  the  lungs,  and  in  venous  congestions  generally,  but 
found  it  contraindicated  by  muscular  degeneration  of  the  heart,  in  advanced  stages  of  val- 
vular disease  with  imperfect  compensation,  and  in  diabetes  and  nephritis.  Walter,  who 
confirmed  these  statements  (Bull,  de  Therap.,  cxiv.  28)  applied  the  ice-bag  with  great 
advantage  in  cases  of  hyperpyraemia  in  typhoid  fever.  Cold  water  is  often  employed  by 
irrigation — that  is,  by  directing  a stream  of  it  over  some  portion  of  the  body ; in  an 
epithem  or  mass  of  lint,  sponge,  or  other  porous  material  kept  saturated  with  the  liquid, 
or  by  means  of  pounded  ice,  which  is  sometimes  mixed  with  flaxseed  or  Indian  meal  or 
bran,  and  enclosed  between  woollen  cloths,  and  sometimes  also  with  nitrate  of  potas- 


244 


AQUA. 


sium  and  chloride  of  ammonium  in  order  to  form  a freezing  mixture  ; by  ablution , which 
consists  in  applying  cold  water,  with  more  or  less  friction,  to  the  surface  of  the  body  in 
order  to  allay  the  heat  of  the  skin  and  promote  diaphoresis  in  febrile  states,  etc. ; by  affu- 
sion, in  which  large  quantities  of  cold  water  are  poured  over  the  body,  previously 
washed  or  not  with  hot  water  and  soap,  by  which  means  the  functions  of  the  skin  are 
quickened  and  sometimes  a salutary  crisis  is  brought  about.  The  douche  is  a form  of 
affusion  in  which  a continuous  stream  of  water  falls  from  a height  upon  the  body, 
adding  a mechanical  stimulus  to  that  produced  by  the  cold  water ; the  shower-bath  is  a 
modification  of  the  same  method,  in  which  the  stimulus  is  very  gentle,  and  therefore 
adapted  to  persons  who  are  comparatively  feeble.  The  so-called  hydropathic  measures, 
which  consist  essentially  in  enveloping  the  body  in  wet  wrappings,  which  are  in  turn 
surrounded  by  dry  ones,  while  the  patient  drinks  abundantly  of  cold  water,  have  for 
their  chief  effect  the  production  of  profuse  perspiration,  by  means  of  which  the  blood 
is  purged  of  deleterious  matters  circulating  with  it.  The  purification  may  become  gen- 
eral or  be  made  local  by  restricting  the  application  of  wet  compresses  to  the  ailing  parts. 
This  last-named  method  is  of  very  general  application,  and  is  useful  in  all  injuries  of 
joints  and  other  local  injuries,  as  well  as  in  almost  all  internal  inflammations,  including 
those  of  the  brain,  lungs,  and  abdominal  and  pelvic  viscera.  The  sweats  produced  by 
topical  as  well  as  by  general  wet  applications  have  sometimes  an  offensive  smell,  which 
probably  shows  that  effete,  and  therefore  deleterious,  substances  are  eliminated  by  means 
of  them.  Potter’s  clay,  instead  of  wet  compresses,  has  been  employed  in  the  treatment 
of  burns , sprains,  insect  bites,  and  swelled  testicle. 

Action  and  Uses  Of  Warm  Water. — Water  of  a higher  temperature  than 
that  of  the  body  may  be  applied  in  the  form  of  vapor  or  of  liquid.  A vapor-bath  at 
120°  F.  may  increase  the  pulse-rate  to  145  or  more,  rendering  the  respiration  difficult, 
causing  haemoptysis,  producing  fulness  of  the  head,  congestion  of  the  brain,  and  even 
apoplexy.  The  more  fully  the  atmosphere  is  charged  with  moisture,  the  greater  is 
the  suffering  of  the  system  in  proportion  to  the  elevation  of  the  temperature,  because 
less  caloric  is  lost  by  radiation ; under  the  same  circumstances,  however,  the  body 
rapidly  loses  weight  by  perspiration.  The  internal  secretions,  and  the  urine  particularly, 
are  notably  diminished.  These  conditions  are  carried  to  an  extreme  limit  in  the  Rus- 
sian vapor-bath,  and  are  intensified  by  other  methods  of  stimulating  the  skin,  such  as 
violent  frictions  and  flagellation  with  softened  rods.  It  has  been  found  that  a person 
unaccustomed  to  such  baths  may  lose  nearly  a pound  in  weight  by  the  operation  of  a 
single  one.  For  domestic  and  medical  purposes  a vapor-bath  may  be  constructed  by 
merely  surrounding  the  patient,  seated  in  a chair,  with  a tent  of  blanket  or  other  imper- 
meable stuff  and  introducing  steam  within  the  enclosure.  The  head  should  not  be  includ- 
ed in  the  covering.  Very  soon  active  diaphoresis  will  commence.  The  vapor  of  warm 
water  may  also  be  diffused  throughout  an  apartment  by  boiling  a kettle  or  other  conve- 
nient vessel  or  by  slaking  lime  in  the  neighborhood  of  the  patient.  The  latter  expedient 
is  to  be  recommended  in  cases  of  membranous  croup  ; the  others  are  usually  employed  in 
the  treatment  of  acute  and  chronic  muscular  rheumatism,  in  chronic  articular  rheuma- 
tism and  gout,  and  in  cases  of  paralysis  that  require  muscular  stimulation.  This  vapor- 
bath  is  also  beneficial  in  dropsy,  especially  when  it  is  produced  by  cold  or  as  a scar- 
latinous sequela;  in  eruptive  fevers  when  the  eruption  is  tardy  and  imperfect;  in  all 
chronic  diseases  of  the  shin  in  which  the  integument  is  torpid,  dry,  and  hard  ; and  in 
cases  of  profuse  sweating  due  to  a relaxed  state  of  the  skin. 

As  the  capacity  of  water  for  caloric  is  three  thousand  times  greater  than  that  of  air, 
the  former  is  capable  of  producing  the  phenomena  of  heat  much  more  energetically  than 
the  latter.  When  water  warmer  than  the  body  (99°  to  113°  F.)  is  swallowed,  it  excites 
a local  and  diffusive  warmth,  quickens  the  pulse,  and  increases  the  perspiration  and 
urine.  The  hotter  the  water  the  more  decided  are  these  effects.  The  warm  bath  (100° 
to  105°)  tends  to  check  exhalation  from  the  parts  of  the  body  immersed,  but  increases 
it  from  the  surface  exposed  to  the  air ; but  before  this  effect  takes  place  the  exposed 
parts  become  congested  and  a sense  of  fulness  and  discomfort  is  experienced  in  the  head 
and  face.  The  skin  grows  red,  the  pulse  and  respiration  are  quickened,  but  the  tension  ot 
the  pulse  is  diminished,  and  syncope  may  occur  if  the  heart  is  weak.  Sweating  follows 
the  bath,  especially  if  encouraged  by  warm  bed-clothing,  and  there  is  a general  sense  of 
relaxation,  and  usually  an  inclination  to  sleep.  Diaphoresis  by  means  of  warm  baths  is 
useful  in  relieving  general  dropsy,  but  less  so  than  when  it  is  incited  by  hot-air  baths.  The 
same  remark  applies  to  rheumatism.  The  local  action  of  water  of  the  temperature  men- 
tioned is  to  relax  the  tissues  and  allow  the  blood  to  accumulate  in  them,  thereby  tending 


AQUA. 


245 


to  withdraw  it  from  remoter  parts.  Hence  the  utility  of  this  measure  in  lessening  con- 
gestions of  the  brain  and  other  internal  organs,  and  relieving  pain , muscular  spasm , and 
fever.  The  greater  the  surface  exposed  to  the  action  of  the  bath  the  more  efficient  is  its 
operation,  particularly  in  relaxing  spasm  and  allaying  internal  pain,  as  is  familiarly 
exhibited  by  the  efficacy  of  this  agent  in  cases  of  dislocations  oj  joints , in  spasm  of  the 
gall-ducts , ureters,  intestines,  uterus,  etc.  If  the  body,  after  the  action  of  a hot-bath,  is 
subjected  to  the  sudden  contact'of  cold  water,  a reaction  occurs  which  is  usually  accom- 
panied with  profuse  perspiration. 

The  internal  administration  of  warm  and  hot  water  has  long  been  employed  at  the 
thermal  springs  of  Europe  as  a means  of  quickening  tissue-change  and  promoting 
diaphoresis  and  diuresis.  It  is  most  efficient  when  the  water  has  a temperature  of  about 
110°  F.  and  the  patient  remains  well  covered  in  bed.  In  this  manner  it  benefits  rheu- 
matic and  gouty  dyscrasiae.  Water  at  about  this  temperature  is  sometimes  beneficial  in 
constipation,  chronic  diarrhoea,  and  gastralgta.  The  general  warm  bath  is  an  important 
hygienic  instrument,  by  means  of  which  the  skin  is  cleansed  of  its  accumulation  of 
effete  secretions  and  its  functional  activity  is  augmented.  It  is  also  an  almost  indispen- 
sable agent  in  modifying  the  nutrition  of  the  skin,  and  thereby  promoting  the  cure  of 
many  cutaneous  diseases  in  their  chronic  forms.  Warm  baths  have  long  been  used  in  the 
treatment  of  fevers,  whether  in  the  eruptive  fevers  in  which  the  exanthem  appears  tardily 
or  imperfectly,  cr  in  these  and  also  in  typhus  and  typhoid  fevers  for  the  purpose  of  mod- 
erating delirium,  diminishing  stupor,  or  calming  nervous  symptoms,  such  as  spasm,  twitch- 
ing, etc.  It  has  even  been  claimed  that  when  the  last  named  of  these  fevers  is  treated 
bv  " permanent  ” warm  baths  the  temperature  is  rapidly  lowered,  the  course  of  the  attack 
is  shorter  and  milder,  and  the  mortality  diminished  (Reiss,  Zeitsch.f.  Min.  Med.,  iii.  389). 
If  even  these  statements  were  accepted  literally,  the  difficulties  of  employing  the  method, 
especially  in  diarrhceal  cases,  are  sufficient  to  render  it  practically  unavailable  in  them. 
(Compare  Riess,  Centralbl.  f Iherap.,  vi.  622  ; Anuschat,  ibid.,  viii.  603.)  In  pneumonia 
baths  of  from  86°  to  90°  F.,  and  prolonged  for  several  hours,  have  been  asserted  by 
Bozzolo  to  be  superior  to  any  other  treatment  {Centralbl.  f.  d.  g.  Tlier.,  i.  368),  but  the 
method  is  impracticable  as  a general  one,  and  the  evidence  in  its  favor  is  inadequate. 
Benevolsky  has  claimed  a like  success  for  hot  half-baths  (from  the  feet  to  the  waist)  at 
108°-111  F.  of  a half-hour’s  duration,  which  he  regards  as  efficiently  revulsive  during 
the  first  stage  of  the  disease  {Bull,  de  Therap.  cxi.  278).  The  warm  bath  is  one  of  the 
most  efficient  agents  in  the  treatment  of  chronic  rheumatism,  especially  in  the  form  of 
sulphurous  mineral  waters.  It  is  an  important  adjuvant  in  all  the  varieties  of  albumin- 
uria and  of  diabetes.  Prolonged  warm  baths  are  most  efficient  auxiliaries  in  all  excito- 
motor  derangements,  but  especially  in  convulsion  and  muscular  spasm,  and  also  in  insanity 
of  nearly  every  type.  Among  these  diseases  albuminuria  and  convulsions  due  to  renal 
obstruction  are  most  conspicuously  benefited,  as  they  also  are  by  purgation  or  whatever 
else  relieves  the  circulatory  tension  without  impoverishing  the  blood.  In  certain  cases 
of  paralysis,  and  particularly  in  rheumatic  paraplegia,  the  efficiency  of  the  warm  bath  is 
sometimes  remarkable.  Its  stimulant  and  revulsive  operation  is  valuable  in  various 
intestinal  disorders,  and  notably  in  cholera  infantum  and  acute  dysentery.  Its  depurative 
action  is  frequently  sought  in  scrofula , chlorosis , and  constitutional  syphilis.  According 
to  Mosler,  enemata  of  hot  water  stimulate  the  discharge  of  bile  in  catarrahal  jaundice. 
The  hot  bath  tends  to  relieve  extreme  muscular  exhaustion,  and  is  available  in  cases  of 
apparent  death  from  apnoea,  asphyxia,  strangidation , and  intoxication,  and  when  the  new- 
born child  fails  to  breathe,  or  does  so  imperfectly,  owing  to  debility  and  not  to  cerebral 
congestion. 

Partial  warm  baths  are  applied  to  the  feet,  the  hips,  and  sometimes  to  the  hands. 
Warm  foot-baths  or  hand-baths,  if  much  above  the  temperature  of  the  blood,  are  power- 
ful stimulants,  exciting  the  heart  and  brain,  preventing  sleep,  etc.,  but  at  about  98°  to 
100°  F.  draw  the  blood  away  from  the  brain,  and  thereby  promote  sleep  and  relieve  pain 
and  congestion  of  the  head  and  trunk.  They  are  very  efficient  in  arresting  the  formation 
of  coryza , sore  throat,  pulmonary  catarrh , laryngitis , especially  of  the  spasmodic  form,  and 
muscular  rheumatism , and  in  promoting  the  menstrual  flow.  If  the  water  is  hot  enough 
to  produce  a painful  impression  on  the  skin,  it  stimulates  the  whole  system,  and  is  more 
apt  to  occasion  a sense  of  fulness  than  relief,  and  to  prevent  sleep  instead  of  promoting 
it.  The  warm  hip-bath  is  used  at  about  the  same  temperature  (98°  to  101°  F.),  and  is 
especially  adapted  to  allay  painful  abdominal  and  pelvic  disorders,  such  as  biliary,  renal , 
and  uterine  colic  and  strangury , to  relieve  retention  of  urine , and  bring  on  retarded  menses 
and  the  hsemorrhoulal  flow . Fomentations  with  warm  water  by  means  of  cloths,  sponges, 


246 


AQU^E  MEDIC  AT JE. 


spongio-piline,  poultices,  etc.  may  be  regarded  as  partial  warm  baths,  and  are  used  to 
relieve  the  tension  of  the  skin  in  local  phlegmonous  inflammations,  and  at  the  same  time, 
by  increasing  the  amount  of  blood  in  the  part,  to  promote  suppuration.  Such  fomenta- 
tions of  the  mammae  favor  the  secretion  of  milk , and,  through  the  sympathy  of  these 
glands  with  the  uterine  system,  sometimes  excite  the  menstrual  flow.  This  last  effect 
has  been  secured  by  prolonged  douches  of  warm  water  in  the  vagina,  which  are  also 
useful  in  recalling  suppressed  lochia  and  allaying  pain  in  the  pelvis.  Enemas  of  warm 
water  are  habitually  used  to  evacuate  the  bowels.  It  is  alleged  that  irrigation  of  the 
rectum  with  water  at  from  100°  to  110°  F.,  and  repeated  every  two  hours  during  the 
active  stage  of  dysentery , has  a marked  influence,  not  only  in  palliating  the  tenesmus, 
but  in  shortening  the  attack  (Reid,  New  York  Jour,  of  Med.,  xxiv.  603).  Enemas  of 
about  two  pints  of  water  at  110°  F.  have  been  used  advantageously  for  congestions  and 
infarctions  of  the  uterus , bladder,  prostate  gland,  and  other  organs  of  the  pelvis.  Hofler 
states  that  enemas  (varying  from  104°  to  113°  F.),  if  thrown  into  the  empty  bowel 
through  a long  tube,  directly  increase  the  flow  of  urine  ( Centralbl . f Therap.,  vi.  478). 
Warm  sand-  or  mud-baths  are  often  employed  at  thermal  springs  in  the  treatment  of 
chronic  rheumatism,  gout , general  dropsy,  etc.  Water  so  hot  that  its  contact  can  just  be 
borne  without  scalding  acts  as  a stimulant,  and  is  sometimes  used  to  arrest  certain  inflam- 
mations in  debilitated  parts,  such  as  panaris,  frost-bite,  the  effects  of  local  contusions, 
etc. ; to  check  local  perspirations  and  general  colliquative  sweats,  epistaxis,  and  capillary 
haemorrhage ; and  to  relieve  various  pains,  such  as  earache,  toothache , neuralgia,  colic, 
uterine  pain,  etc.  Its  power  is  familiar  in  arresting  the  bleeding  from  leech-bites  and 
similar  small  wounds.  Following  a German  method,  Dr.  F.  H.  Hamilton  applied  success- 
fully, in  the  treatment  of  lacerated  and  contused  wounds,  local  baths  of  warm  water,  and 
also  fomentations  of  cotton  batting  soaked  in  water  at  95°  to  110°  F.  and  renewed  every 
half  hour.  Subsequently,  he  employed  the  same  method  successfully  in  arresting 
traumatic  gangrene  (Trans.  Med.  Soc.  of  State  of  New  York,  1875  and  1879).  Water  at 
160°  F.  has  been  used  to  check  the  capillary  haemorrhage  which  is  apt  to  follow  the 
removal  of  Esmarch’s  tourniquet.  But  Dr.  C.  T.  Hunter  found  that  similar  haemor- 
rhages are  efficiently  checked  by  water  at  125°  or  130°  F.  ( Phila . Med.  Times,  x.  89). 
Hot-water  injections  have  been  used  with  prompt  effect  to  arrest  uterine  haemorrhage 
(Emmett,  Barker),  and  that  variety  of  it  produced  by  laceration  of  the  cervix  or  haemor- 
rhage from  a like  injury  of  the  vulva  has  been  controlled  by  means  of  water  at  110°  to 
115°  F.  A stream  of  such  water  directed  upon  the  undilated  cervix  uteri  at  term  will 
bring  on  labor,  or  thrown  into  the  cavity  of  a relaxed  and  bleeding  uterus  will  induce  its 
contraction  (A.  H.  Smith).  The  hot  bath  prolonged  for  a half  hour  or  more  has 
repeatedly  been  used  to  bring  on  labor  delayed  by  inertia  of  the  uterus.  In  various 
inflammatory  and  congested  states  of  the  eye  the  stimulant  action  of  hot  water  is  at 
once  the  simplest  and  most  efficient  remedy.  It  should  be  as  hot  as  the  patient  can 
comfortably  bear  with  the  hand,  and  should  be  applied  by  drenching  or  by  being  thrown  j 
against  the  eye  with  the  hand  while  the  face  is  bent  over  a basin  containing  the  water.  I 

This  operation  should  be  repeated  every  hour  or  two  or  only  two  or  three  times  a day,  as  j 

may  be  required  (Connor,  Am.  Jour,  of  Med.  Sci.,  Oct.  1881,  p.  466).  Still  better,  the 
face  may  be  immersed  in  the  water  while  the  eye  is  kept  open.  According  to  Petrequin, 
warm  water  is  a better  solvent  for  cerumen  than  oil,  glycerin,  etc.  Boiling  water  may  be 
employed  to  produce  a powerful  stimulant  or  revulsive  action,  as  in  cases  of  asphyxia  and 
prolonged  syncope.  Its  use  requires  great  caution,  and  is  not  as  safe  as  the  application 
of  a hammer  or  similar  metallic  instrument  previously  immersed  in  boiling  water. 


AQUiE  MEDIC ATiE.— Medicated  Waters. 

Aquae  destillatae , P.  G.  ; A quae  stillatitiae. — Distilled  waters,  E.  ; Eaux  distillees,  Hydrolats , 
Fr. ; Destillirte  Wdsser,  G.  ; Acquae  distillate,  F.  It. 

Preparation  and  Properties. — The  above  names  are  applied  to  waters  which 
have  been  impregnated  with  volatile  substances.  All  odorous  plants  and  parts  of  plants 
impart  their  odor,  and  to  a certain  extent  also  their  taste,  to  water  which  is  distilled  there- 
from. This  is  due  to  a considerable  extent  to  the  volatile  oils  passing  over  with  the  vapor 
of  water ; but  in  many  instances  the  flavor  of  such  distilled  waters  differs  more  or  less 
from  that  of  the  aqueous  solutions  of  the  corresponding  volatile  oils,  and  we  must  there- 
fore assume  that  besides  the  volatile  oils  other  volatile  compounds,  acids,  and  probably 
ethers,  pass  over  and  remain  dissolved  in  the  water,  whereby  the  flavor  is  modified  and 


AQILE  MEDICATJ2. 


247 


nearly  always  becomes  more  agreeable.  Tn  preparing  medicated  waters  distillation  should 
be  resorted  to  whenever  practicable. 

The  drugs  are  preferably  used  in  the  fresh  state  if  they  can  be  thus  obtained,  since 
during  the  drying  process  more  or  less  of  the  volatile  constituents  are  lost  by  evaporation, 
and,  in  common  with  the  others,  often  modified  in  composition.  In  some  cases  where  the 
oil-cells  are  well  protected,  as  in  cinnamon-bark,  or  the  oil  is  produced  only  by  contact 
with  water,  as  in  bitter  almonds,  the  material  may  be  preserved  in  the  dry  state  for  a long 
time  without  deterioration.  In  all  cases  where  the  oil-cells  are  not  situated  on  the  sur- 
face, as  they  are  in  many  leaves,  the  drug  should  be  suitably  comminuted,  so  that  it  may 
be  easily  penetrated  by  the  hot  water  and  the  oil-cells  ruptured. 

In  distilling  medicated  waters  over  a naked  fire  great  care  should  be  taken  to  prevent 
the  material  from  being  burned,  otherwise  an  cmpyrcumatic  odor  and  taste  will  be  im- 
parted to  the  distillate ; this  is  obviated  by  placing  the  drug  upon  a diaphragm,  or 
setting  within  the  still  another  vessel  perforated  on  the  sides  and  bottom,-  so  that  the 
vapors  will  pass  through  it  without  unnecessary  obstruction.  If  steam  is  used  the  danger 
of  burning  is  avoided ; in  this  case  a jet  of  steam  may  be  conducted  to  the  bottom  of  the 
still,  the  contents  of  which  are  thereby  heated  to  the  boiling-point.  If  dry  material  is 
used,  allowance  must  be  made  for  its  swelling  on  becoming  thoroughly  permeated  by  the 
water,  as  it  might  otherwise  fill  the  still  and  pass  into  the  condenser.  Some  materials 
when  boiled  in  water  foam  considerably,  and  portions  of  the  decoction  arc  then  apt  to  be 
carried  over  mechanically,  rendering  the  distillate  colored  and  otherwise  impure.  This 
tendency  to  foam  over  will  be  lessened  by  adding  to  the  contents  of  the  retort  a small 
quantity  of  a fixed  oil. 

The  rapidity  with  which  medicated  waters  are  distilled  is  of  importance,  since  it  has  a 
considerable  influence  on  their  flavor  and  stability.  In  all  cases  the  waters  should  be 
rapidly  and  thoroughly  cooled  in  the  condenser,  to  prevent  the  action  of  the  hot  water  and 
of  the  acids  which  are  frequently  present  upon  the  tin.  arid  to  avoid  changes  in  the  volatile 
oil,  which,  in  its  finely-divided  condition,  are  apt  to  occur.  Waters  which  have  been 
insufficiently  cooled  very  frequently  become  ropy  in  keeping.  It  is  advisable,  therefore, 
to  distill  them  slowly  and  cool  the  condenser  well  with  a sufficient  supply  of  water. 

A peculiar  odor  is  observed  in  some  waters  immediately  after  they  have  been  distilled 
from  tin  vessels  or  condensed  in  tin  worms,  but  not  when  glass  vessels  have  been  used. 
If  the  waters  are  exposed  to  the  air  in  loosely-closed  vessels  for  a few  days,  this  still-odor 
disappears  and  the  natural  odor  of  the  water  becomes  apparent. 

Distilled  waters  which,  like  orange-flower  and  rose-water,  are  not  completely  saturated 
with  volatile  oil,  are  advantageously  prepared  of  double  or  triple  strength,  either 
by  distilling  off  only  one-half  or  one-third  of  the  necessary  quantity  of  water,  or  by 
having  recourse  to  the  process  of  cohobation,  in  which  case  the  proper  quantity  of  water 
is  distilled  off  and  a second  or  third  time  distilled  from  fresh  portions  of  the  same  material. 
When  wanted  for  use  they  are  diluted  with  distilled  water  in  the  proper  proportions.  The 
German  Pharmacopoeia  (1872)  directed  concentrated  medicated  waters  to  be  prepared  of 
German  chamomile,  melissa,  sage,  elderflowcrs,  and  linden-flowers,  by  distilling  from  10 
parts  of  the  drugs  100  parts  of  water,  adding  to  the  distillate  2 parts  of  alcohol,  and 
again  distilling  10  parts.  For  use  1 part  of  these  waters  was  diluted  with  0 parts  of 
distilled  water. 

Distilled  waters  are  best  preserved  in  well-corked  bottles,  which  should  be  completely 
filled  and  protected  from  the  light.  Exposed  to  air  and  light,  they  gradually  turn  sour 
and  lose  their  agreeable  odor. 

The  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia  allows  most  medicated  waters  to  be  prepared  by  dissolving 
the  volatile  oil  in  distilled  water.  To  facilitate  the  solution  the  oils  are  now  directed  to 
be  triturated  with  twice  their  weight  of  precipitated  calcium  phosphate,  after  which  the 
distilled  water  is  gradually  added  under  constant  trituration  ; the  mixture  is  finally  fil- 
tered through  paper.  Thorough  trituration  with  an  insoluble  powder  causes  the  divis- 
ion of  the  oils  into  very  minute  particles,  in  which  condition  they  are  more  readily  dis- 
solved by  water.  The  method  of  distributing  the  oil  over  purified  cotton,  and  then  bring- 
ing it  into  aqueous  solution  by  slow  percolation  with  distilled  water,  as  advocated  in  the 
Pharmacopoeia  of  1880,  did  not  meet  with  much  approbation,  on  account  of  the  possible 
bad  effects  arising  from  the  continued  contact  of  the  oils  with  the  fingers  of  the  operator. 
The  division  of  the  volatile  oils  was  formerly  accomplished  by  triturating  them  with 
magnesium  carbonate  ; but  a minute  quantity  of  this  salt  is  always  dissolved  and  the 
acids  which  may  be  naturally  contained  in  the  oils  are  neutralized.  In  some  cases,  as  in 
cinnamon-water,  a yellow  or  brownish  color  is  also  produced.  One  of  the  most  import- 


248 


AQUA  AMMON IJE. 


ant  objections  to  the  use  of  magnesia  or  magnesium  carbonate  is  found  in  the  action 
upon  the  salts  of  poisonous  alkaloids  and  metals,  which  are  decomposed  thereby,  with 
the  precipitation  of  the  alkaloids  or  metallic  oxides,  unless  some  acid  be  added  to 
neutralize  the  magnesia  (T.  H.  Powers,  1833).  Other  substances  which  are  completely 
insoluble  in  water  have  been  recommended  for  this  purpose,  such  as  powdered  silica, 
kaolin,  glass,  pumice-stone,  paper-pulp,  and  purified  animal  charcoal.  G.  G.  Percival 
recommends  the  dissolving  of  the  volatile  oils  directly  in  hot  distilled  water,  filtering 
after  cooling,  whereby  a strong  and  otherwise  pure  medicated  water  is  obtained. 

Tests  for  Purity. — Medicated  waters  should  evaporate  in  a clean  porcelain  capsule 
without  leaving  any  appreciable  residue.  The  water  should  not  acquire  a brown  or  black 
color  by  ammonium  sulphide  or  hydrogen  sulphide  (metals),  or  yield  with  the  former  a 
white  sediment  after  having  been  previously  rendered  alkaline  by  the  addition  of  ammo- 
nia (zinc). 


AQUA  AMMONITE,  1.  Ammonia  water. 

Liquor  ammonise , Br.  ; Liquor  ammonii  caustici,  P.  G. ; Spiritus  sails  ammoniaci  cans- 
ticas , Ammonia  aqua  soluta. — Ammoniaque  liquide , Eau  ( Solution  Liqueur ) dAmmoni- 
aque , Fr.  ; Salmiakgeist.  Aetzammoniak , Ammoniak- d Hiss igkeit,  G. ; Ammoniaca , F.  It. ; 
Amoniaco  liquido , Sp. 

An  aqueous  solution  of  ammonia  having  the  specific  gravity  0.959  (A/-.), 0.960  (£7.  $., 
P.  G .),  and  containing  10  per  cent,  by  weight  of  the  gas. 

Stronger  water  of  ammonia  has  the  specific  gravity  0.891  (Ar.),  0.901  (£7  $.),  and 
contains  32.5  (Br.),  28  ( U.  S.)  percent,  by  weight  of  the  gas. 

Formula  of  ammonia  gas  NH3.  Molecular  weight  17.01. 

Production. — Ammonia  is  produced  during  the  putrefaction  of  all  organisms  and 
of  many  organic  compounds  containing  nitrogen  ; it  exists  in  the  air  and  in  the  soil  in 
the  free  state,  mostly  in  combination  with  acids  in  the  air,  as  carbonate  and  nitrite. 
Ammoniacal  salts  are  met  with  in  most  plants  and  animals.  The  products  of  the  dry 
distillation  of  many  nitrogenated  compounds  contain  ammonia,  and  it  is  from  such  a 
source — namely,  from  the  so-called  gas-liquor,  a by-product  of  the  manufacture  of  illumi- 
nating gas — that  ammoniacal  salts  are  principally  obtained.  (See  Ammonii  Chlori- 
dum  and  Ammonii  Sulphas.) 

Preparation. — 1.  Ammonia-water.  The  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia  of  1890,  like  its 
predecessor,  not  stating  an  official  method  for  preparing  ammonia-water,  the  method  of 
1870  is  here  published  ; it  will  be  found  to  yield  an  excellent  product  on  a small  scale: 
Take  of  Ammonium  Chloride  in  small  pieces,  Lime,  each  12  troyounces  ; Water  6 pints; 
Distilled  Water  a sufficient  quantity.  Pour  a pint  of  the  water  upon  the  lime  in  a con- 
venient vessel,  and  after  it  has  slaked  stir  the  mixture  so  as  to  bring  it  to  the  consistence 
of  a smooth  paste.  Then  add  the  remainder  of  the  water  and  mix  the  whole  thoroughly 
together.  Decant  the  milky  liquid  from  the  gritty  sediment  into  a glass  retort  of  the 
capacity  of  16  pints,  and  add  the  ammonium  chloride.  Place  the  retort  on  a sand- 
bath,  and  adapt  to  it  a washing-bottle,  previously  connected  with  a two-pint  bottle,  by 
means  of  a glass  tube  reaching  nearly  to  the  bottom  of  the  bottle,  containing  a pint  of 
distilled  water.  Surround  the  bottle  with  ice-cold  water  and  apply  heat,  gradually 
increased  until  ammonia  ceases  to  come  over.  Remove  the  liquid  from  the  bottle,  and 
add  to  it  sufficient  distilled  water  to  raise  its  specific  gravity  to  0.960.  Lastly,  keep  the 
liquid  in  small  bottles,  well  stopped. 

According  to  the  British  Pharmacopoeia,  1 pint  of  strong  solution  of  ammonia  is  mixed 
with  2 pints  of  distilled  water. 

2.  Aqua  Ammonia:  Fortior,  TJ.  S. ; Liquor  ammoniae  fortior,  Br. — Stronger  water 
(Strong  solution)  of  ammonia,  E. ; Eau  d’ammoniaque  forte,  Fr. ; Starker  Salmiakgeist, 
G. — Take  of  Ammonium  Chloride  in  coarse  powder  3 pounds ; Slaked  Lime  4 pounds  : 
and  Distilled  Water  32  fluidounces.  Mix  the  lime  with  the  ammonium  chloride,  and 
introduce  the  mixture  into  an  iron  bottle  placed  in  a metal  pot  surrounded  by  sand. 
Connect  the  iron  tube,  which  screws  air-tight  into  the  bottle  in  the  usual  manner,  by 
corks,  glass  tubes,  and  caoutchouc  collars,  with  a Woulf’s  bottle  capable  of  holding  a 
pint ; connect  this  with  a second  Woulf’s  bottle  of  the  same  size  ; the  second  bottle  with  a 
flask  or  other  vessel  of  the  capacity  of  3 pints,  in  which  22  ounces  of  the  distilled  water 
are  placed,  and  connect  the  vessel,  by  means  of  a tube  bent  twice  at  right  angles,  with  an 
ordinary  bottle  containing  the  remaining  10  ounces  of  distilled  water.  Bot  tles  Nos.  1 and  2 
are  empty,  and  the  latter  and  the  vessel  which  contains  the  22  ounces  of  distilled  water  are 


AQUA  AMMONITE. 


249 


furnished  each  with  a siphon  safety-tube  charged  with  a very  short  column  of  mercury. 
The  heat  of  a fire,  which  should  be  very  gradually  raised,  is  now  to  be  applied  to  the 
metal  pot,  and  continued  until  bubbles  of  condensable  gas  escape  from  the  extremity  of 
the  glass  tube  which  dips  into  the  water  of  the  vessel.  The  process  being  terminated, 
the  vessel  will  contain  about  43  fluidounces  of  strong  solution  of  ammonia. 

Bottles  1 and  2 will  now  include,  the  first  about  16,  the  second  about  10,  fluidounces 
of  a colored  ammoniacal  liquid.  Place  this  in  a flask  closed  by  a cork,  which  should  be 
perforated  by  a siphon  safety-tube  containing  a little  mercury,  and  also  by  a second 
tube  bent  twice  at  right  angles  and  made  to  pass  to  the  bottom  of  the  terminal  bottle 
used  in  the  preceding  process.  Apply  heat  to  the  flask  until  the  colored  liquid  it  con- 
tains is  reduced  to  three-fourths  of  its  original  bulk.  The  product  now  contained  in  the 
terminal  bottle  will  be  nearly  of  the  strength  of  solution  of  ammonia,  and  may  be  made 
exactly  so  by  the  addition  of  the  proper  quantity  of  distilled  water  or  of  strong  solution 
of  ammonia. — Br. 

When  ammonium  salts  are  treated  with  the  hydroxide  of  a metal  of  the  alkalies  or 
alkaline  earths,  the  corresponding  salts  of  the  metals  are  formed  and  ammonia  and  water 
are  set  free.  In  both  of  the  above  processes  ammonium  chloride  and  calcium  hydroxide 
are  used,  the  reaction  resulting  in  the  production  of  calcium  chloride,  ammonia,  and 
water,  as  follows : 2NH4C1  -f  CaOH2  yields  CaCl2  + 2NHS  + 2H20.  But,  while  the 
two  processes  are  identical  as  far  as  the  chemical  reaction  is  concerned,  they  differ  very 
considerably  in  the  manipulation.  In  the  first  process  the  materials  react  upon  each 
other  in  the  presence  of  much  water,  resulting,  even  at  the  ordinary  temperature,  in  the 
liberation  of  much  ammonia,  and  permitting  the  completion  of  the  process,  including  the 
disengagement  of  the  ammonia,  at  the  boiling  temperature  and  in  glass  retorts.  It  is 
important  to  heat  the  mixture  gradually,  so  that  much  of  the  gas  may  be  given  off  before 
the  boiling  temperature  is  reached.  A rapid  heating  is  apt  to  cause  the  extrication  of  the 
gas  with  such  violence  that  the  contents  of  the  retort  will  boil  over. 

In  the  British  process  the  materials  act  upon  each  other  in  the  dry  state,  requiring  a 
higher  heat,  and,  in  consequence  thereof,  the  employment  of  an  iron  retort.  This  pro- 
cess is  mostly  followed  in  the  preparation  of  ammonia  on  the  large  scale,  when  ammo- 
nium sulphate  is  often  substituted  for  the  chloride  on  account  of  the  cheapness  of  the 
former  salt.  The  dry  process  necessitates  greater  care  in  the  purification  of  the  gas, 
which  is  indicated  already  by  the  dark  color  acquired  by  the  liquid  in  the  wash-bottle. 
The  impurities  in  the  gas  are  chiefly  decomposition-products,  resulting  from  the  impuri- 
ties contained  in  the  ammonia  salt  and  lime.  Although  the  latter  is  used  in  excess, 
ammonium  carbonate  may  form  either  from  calcium  carbonate  possibly  present  or  from 
the  decomposition  of  organic  matter.  If  the  wash-bottle  is  charged  with  milk  of  lime, 
the  organic  decomposition-products  are  better  retained,  and  any  ammonium  carbonate 
contained  in  the  gas  will  be  decomposed,  yielding  ammonia  and  calcium  carbonate.  In 
preparing  ammonia  on  the  large  scale  it  is  advantageous  to  connect  the  wash-bottle  with 
a series  of  stoneware  receivers  shaped  like  Woulf’s  bottles,  so  that  the  gas  which  is  not 
absorbed  in  the  first  will  pass  into  the  second  receiver,  and  soon. 

The  employment  of  a considerable  excess  of  calcium  hydroxide  has  been  found 
advantageous  to  ensure  the  complete  decomposition  of  the  ammonium  salt.  On  account 
of  this  excess  the  residue  in  the  retort  will  contain  a basic  calcium  chloride  having  the 
composition  CaCl2.3CaO,  which,  after  having  been  filtered  from  the  lime,  may  be  neutral- 
ized by  hydrochloric  acid  and  evaporated  to  dryness,  to  be  utilized  as  calcium  chloride. 

On  the  large  scale  ammonia-water  is  usually  made  with  common  water,  the  natural 
impurities  of  which  it  contains,  together,  frequently,  with  notable  quantities  of  iron 
derived  from  the  iron  delivery-tubes  employed.  Chemically  pure  ammonia-water  may 
be  obtained  from  this  by  heating  it,  or,  preferably,  the  commercial  stronger  ammonia- 
water,  in  a glass  flask  or  retort,  and  conducting  the  gas,  a considerable  amount  of  which 
is  evolved  below  the  boiling-point  of  water,  by  means  of  glass  tubes,  into  distilled 
water. 

Gaseous  ammonia  is  obtained  by  passing  the  gaseous  products  in  the  above  processes 
over  dry  potassa  or  calcium  chloride. 

Properties. — 1.  Gaseous  Ammonia. — Ammonia  is  a colorless  gas  having  a strong 
penetrating  odor  and  an  acrid  alkaline  taste.  In  pure  oxygen  it  burns,  forming  water 
and  free  nitrogen.  It  has  the  specific  gravity  0.593.  By  a pressure  of  seven  atmo- 
spheres at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  or  when  cooled  to  — 40°  at  the  ordinary  atmospheric  pres- 
sure, it  condenses  into  a colorless  liquid  much  lighter  than  water,  which  boils  a few 
deg  rees  above  this  temperature  and  crystallizes  when  placed  in  a mixture  of  solid  carbon 


250 


AQUA  A MM  ONI M 


dioxide  and  ether  at  about  — 75°  C.  ( — 102°  F.).  Water  dissolves  about  700  times 
its  volume  of  ammonia  gas. 

2.  Ammonia-water. — The  aqueous  solutions  of  ammonia  constitute  colorless,  trans- 
parent liquids  possessing  the  odor  and  taste  of  the  gas,  being  lighter  than  distilled  water 
and  having  a lower  freezing-point  than  this  liquid.  They  impart  a brown  color  to  tur- 
meric-paper, a blue  color  to  red  litmus-paper,  and  a green  color  to  the  juice  of  violet- 
flowers,  and  evolve  dense  white  fumes  when  a glass  rod  moistened  with  hydrochloric  or  ace- 
tic acid  is  held  over  the  liquid.  Ammonia  neutralizes  all  acids,  forming  salts  which  are 
mostly  colorless  and  crystallizable,  possess  a sharp  saline  taste,  and  when  heated  to  red- 
ness are  entirely  volatilized,  without  leaving  any  residue  unless  the  acid  be  non-volatile  ; 
even  the  solutions  of  most  ammonium  salts,  when  evaporated  or  heated  to  boiling,  lose  a 
portion  of  the  ammonia.  For  the  neutralization  of  3.4  Gm.  of  ammonia-water  20  Cc.  of 
normal  sulphuric  acid  should  be  required  ( U.  $.),  or  85  grains  by  weight  require  500 
grain-measures  of  the  volumetric  solution  of  oxalic  acid  (i?r.),  or  28  to  28.5  Cc.  of  volu- 
metric hydrochloric  acid  for  5 Cc.  of  ammonia -water  (P.  6r.). 

3.  Stronger  Ammonia-water. — It  has  the  properties  of  ammonia-water,  from 

which  it  differs  chiefly  in  specific  gravity  and  greater  strength.  To  neutralize  3.4  Gm. 
of  it  should  require  56  Cc.  of  normal  sulphuric  acid  ( U.  $.).  5.23  Gm.  require  100 

Cc.  (i?r.),  corresponding,  the  former  to  28  per  cent.,  the  latter  to  32.3  per  cent. 
NH3- 

The  following  table  gives  the  specific  gravities  of  ammonia-waters  of  different  strengths 
at  14°  C.  (57.2°  F.),  as  ascertained  by  Carius,  1856 : 


Per  cent. 

nh3. 

Specific 

gravity. 

Per  cent. 

nh3. 

Specific 

gravity. 

Per  cent. 

nh3. 

Specific 

gravity. 

Per  cent. 

nh3. 

Specific 

gravity. 

36 

0.8844 

27 

0.9052 

18 

0.9314 

9 

0.9631 

35 

0.8864 

26 

0.9078 

17 

0.9347 

8 

0.9670 

34 

0.8885 

25 

0.9106 

16 

0.9380 

7 

0.9709 

33 

0.8907 

24 

0.9133 

15 

0.9414 

6 

0.9749 

32 

0.8929 

23 

0.9162 

14 

0.9449 

5 

0.9790 

31 

0.8953 

22 

0.9191 

13 

0.9484 

4 

0.9831 

30 

0.8976 

21 

0.9221 

12 

0.9520 

3 

0.9873 

29 

0.9001 

20 

0.9251 

11 

0.9556 

2 

0.9915 

28 

0.9026 

19 

0.9283 

10 

0.9593 

1 

0.9959 

Tests. — The  solutions  of  ammonium  salts  yield  orange-colored  crystalline  precipi- 
tates with  platinum  chloride  and  sodium  cobaltic  nitrate,  and,  if  not  too  dilute,  white 
ones  with  tartaric  acid  or  acid  sodium  tartrate.  The  most  delicate  tests  for  ammonia 
are  those  of  Einbrodt  (1852)  and  of  Nessler  (1856).  Einbrodt's  reagent  is  an  aqueous 
solution  of  corrosive  sublimate,  rendered  slightly  alkaline  by  the  addition  of  a minute 
quantity  of  potassium  carbonate.  The  test  is  applied  to  an  alkaline  solution,  or  if  the 
solution  has  an  acid  reaction  it  should  be  rendered  faintly  alkaline  by  the  addition  of 
potassa  or  soda,  when  the  test-liquid  will  produce  a white  cloudiness  if  only  -g-o^Vtro  °f 
ammonia  is  contained  in  the  solution. 

Nessler's  reagent  is  a solution  of  potassium  iodo-hydrargyrate,  made  either  by  satu- 
rating a solution  of  potassium  iodide  with  mercuric  iodide,  and  rendering  this  alkaline  by 
potassa,  or  it  is  prepared  from  potassium  iodide  and  mercuric  chloride.  (See  Hydrarg. 
Iodidum  Rubrum.)  With  solutions  of  ammonia  or  ammoniacal  salts  it  gives  a brown- 
red  precipitate,  or  if  very  dilute  an  orange  color.  It  may  be  used  for  the  quantitative 
determination  of  minute  quantities  of  ammonia  by  diluting  the  liquid  so  far  that  with 
Nessler’s  solution  only  an  orange  tint  is  produced,  which  is  compared  with  that  obtained 
from  a solution  of  ammonium  chloride  of  known  strength  by  diluting  the  latter  until  the 
same  coloration  is  produced  with  the  test  liquid. 

Test  Of  Purity. — Water  of  ammonia  should  evaporate  at  the  temperature  of  boil- 
ing water  without  leaving  any  residue  (salts).  “ On  slightly  supersaturating  10  Cc.  of 
Ammonia  Water  with  diluted  sulphuric  acid,  no  empyreumatic  odor  or  red  color  should 
be  developed,  and  if  to  this  liquid  1 Cc.  of  centinormal  potassium  permanganate  solution 
be  added,  the  pink  color  should  not  be  completely  destroyed  within  ten  minutes  (absence 
of  readily  oxidizable  matters).  “If  Ammonia  Water  be  mixed  with  4 times  its  volume 
of  lime-water,  it  should  not  afford  an  immediate  turbidity  (only  minute  traces  of  car- 
bonic acid) ; and  if  it  be  diluted  with  twice  its  volume  of  water,  it  should  not  be  affected 
by  ammonium  oxalate  test-solution  (absence  of  calcium),  nor  should  it  be  affected  by 
hydrogen  sulphide  test-solution  either  before  or  after  neutralization  with  hydrochloric 


AQUA  AMMONIA. 


251 


acid  (absence  of  metallic  impurities).  “ If  Ammonia  Water  be  slightly  supersaturated 
with  nitric  acid,  it  should  not  be  affected  by  barium  chloride  test-solution  (absence  of 
sulphates),  nor  by  silver  nitrate  test-solution  (chloride)  ; and  if  a third  portion  of  the 
acidulated  liquid  be  evaporated  on  a water-bath  to  dryness,  it  should  afford  a colorless 
residue,  which,  on  ignition,  should  be  completely  volatilized  (absence  of  coal-tar  bases 
and  of  fixed  impurities).” — U.  S. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses  and  Preparation. — Ammonia-water  is  extensively 
employed  as  a precipitant  in  the  manufacture  of  most  alkaloids,  of  calcium  phosphate, 
iron  hydroxide,  and  purified  ammonium  chloride  ; it  is  used  for  nearly  neutralizing  solu- 
tions in  preparing  digitalin  and  bismuth  subcarbonate  and  subnitrate,  and  as  a solvent 
for  impurities  in  the  process  for  santonin.  Combined  with  citric  acid  as  ammonium 
citrate,  it  acts  as  a solvent  for  certain  salts  of  iron  and  bismuth  which  are  insoluble  in 
water ; it  is  employed  in  the  preparation  of  ammonium  benzoate,  phosphate,  and  citrate, 
and  of  hydrargyrum  ammoniatum. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  vapor  of  ammonia  causes  plants  to  fade  and  shrivel  and 
asphyxiates  animals  immersed  in  it.  Water  of  ammonia  given  to  animals  occasions  dis- 
tress, frequent  pulse  and  respiration,  prostration,  and  rigid  spasm  before  death,  after  which 
the  gastro-intestinal  mucous  membrane  is  injected,  softened,  and  covered  with  bloody 
mucus,  while  the  blood  in  the  vessels  coagulates  imperfectly  and  its  corpuscles  are  dis- 
integrated. It  does  not  appear  to  increase  the  alkalinity  of  the  blood  or  of  the  secre- 
tions, and  it  is  found  in  the  urine  oxidized.  When  ammonia-water  is  injected  into  the 
veins  of  an  animal  exhausted  by  loss  of  blood  and  exposure  of  the  viscera,  and  the  con- 
gested heart  has  almost  ceased  to  beat,  immediately  the  heart  resumes  its  action  and 
normal  color  and  the  aorta  is  filled  with  bright-colored  blood  (Griswold,  Med.  Record , xv. 
532  ; compare  Talma  and  v.  d.  Weyde,  Zeitsch.  f k.  Med.,  ix.  311).  Applied  to  the 
human  skin,  caustic  ammonia  excites  a sense  of  warmth,  followed  by  burning  pain  and 
more  or  less  vesication,  or,  if  the  application  be  excessive  and  prolonged,  by  gangrene 
of  the  part.  Blisters  caused  by  ammonia  are  very  painful  and  slow  to  heal.  Ammoni- 
acal  vapors  in  contact  with  the  eye  occasion  severe  pain  and  inflammation.  Inhaled 
through  the  nose,  they  produce  sneezing,  lachrymation,  and  burning.  In  the  air-pas- 
sages they  excite  violent  irritation  unless  greatly  diluted,  and  if  inhaled  during  a state 
of  insensibility  fatal  asphyxia  may  result.  The  passage  of  the  vapor  through  the 
mouth  under  such  circumstances  may  produce  severe  inflammation  of  its  lining  mem- 
brane. Internally,  its  action  upon  the  healthy  system  is  slight  and  transient,  but  in 
states  of  nervous  exhaustion  it  is  very  prompt  and  distinct.  A sense  of  tension  in  the 
temples,  exhilaration  of  the  feelings,  a consciousness  of  increased  strength,  greater 
warmth  of  the  skin,  and  an  augmented  secretion  of  sweat,  urine,  and  bronchial  mucus, 
are  among  its  most  sensible  effects,  which  are  not,  as  in  the  case  of  alcohol,  followed  by 
a corresponding  depression.  The  action  of  large  doses  is  not  uniform.  Sometimes  death 
follows  in  a few  minutes,  with  symptoms  of  cauterization  of  the  fauces  and  larynx, 
sometimes  later  with  those  of  gastro-enteritis,  accompanied  or  not  with  delirium,  stupor, 
and  spasm.  A drunkard,  having  swallowed  nearly  2 fluidounces  of  “aqua  ammoniae,” 
survived  four  and  a quarter  days  (Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  Aug.  1880,  p.  1G6). 
After  death  may  be  found  inflammation  and  oedema  of  the  fauces  and  larynx,  sometimes 
of  the  bronchia  also,  and  generally  of  the  oesophagus,  stomach,  and  small  intestine. 
The  mucous  membrane  may  even  look  charred.  In  other  cases,  in  spite  of  large  doses 
of  the  poison  and  violent  symptoms  denoting  local  irritation  and  nervous  exhaustion,  the 
patients  recover,  although  it  may  be  after  a long  time.  A man  who  inhaled  the  fumes 
of  strong  water  of  ammonia  suffered  from  dyspnoea,  the  inside  of  his  mouth  and  the 
tongue  were  covered  with  white  patches,  he  had  burning  at  the  epigastrium  and  frontal 
headache,  lost  his  appetite,  and  suffered  from  pulmonary  oedema.  lie  recovered  within 
six  weeks,  (ibid.,  May,  1884,  p,  497). 

Externally,  ammonia  is  commonly  employed  both  as  an  ingredient  of  stimulating  lini- 
ments and  as  a caustic.  In  the  former  it  is  a very  popular  palliative  for  the  pains  of 
muscular  rheumatism,  neuralgia,  muscular  spasm,  etc.,  and  for  relieving  congestion,  par- 
ticularly of  the  larynx,  lungs,  throat,  and  bowels.  As  the  latter  its  greatest  utility  is 
limited  to  the  first  period  of  the  attack.  In  neuralgia  its  caustic  is  more  important  than 
its  stimulant  action,  and  is  best  secured  by  vesicating  the  skin  wherever  the  affected 
nerve  is  found  to  be  tender,  either  at  its  point  of  emergence  from  bones,  muscles,  etc.  or 
where  it  is  ultimately  distributed  to  the  skin.  The  vesication  must  be  superficial  for 
superficial  nerves,  and  deeper  for  profound  ones.  It  is  best  effected  by  saturating  a disk 
of  cloth  with  ammonia,  applying  it  accurately  to  the  skin,  and  holding  it  there,  covered 


252 


AQUA  AMMONIA. 


with  some  solid  substance,  until  vesication  has  been  accomplished.  A salt  of  morphine 
dissolved  in  the  ammonia  used  renders  the  relief  more  certain.  Amenorrhoea  has  been 
successfully  treated  by  vaginal  injections  of  a weak  solution  of  ammonia,  and  the  same 
is  true  of  vaginal  leucorrhoca.  Other  cases  in  which  the  local  substitutive  irritation  of 
ammonia  is  available  are — a tendency  to  amaurosis  from  exhaustion  of  the  retina,  in 
which  case  the  vapor  may  be  cautiously  allowed  to  come  in  contact  with  the  conjunc- 
tiva; superficial  burns  and  frost-bite;  and  a general  exhaustion  or  depression  of  the 
nervous  system  in  low  fevers , when  a weak  solution  of  ammonia  in  hot  water  may  be 
applied  by  sponging  to  the  whole  skin.  Ammonia  enters  into  most  of  the  liniments  and 
washes  that  are  used  to  prevent  the  hair  from  falling  out  or  to  stimulate  its  growth. 
Vulvar  pruritus  is  said  to  be  benefited  by  vaginal  injections  consisting  of  half  a fluid- 
drachm  or  more  of  stronger  water  of  ammonia  in  half  a pint  of  common  water.  This 
may  possibly  be  true  of  pruritus  connected  with  amennorrhoea,  but  the  remedy  is  useless 
in  most  of  the  other  forms,  except  as  a very  transient  palliative. 

By  inhalation  the  vapor  of  ammonia  has  been  used  to  arrest  the  development  of  catar- 
rhal affections  of  the  throat  and  air-passages  ( bronchitis , coryza , and  pharyngitis).  It  is 
recommended  to  employ  a weak  solution.  The  most  successful  application  of  this  mechod 
is,  perhaps,  to  chronic  dryness  of  the  pharynx  and  to  chronic  hoarseness.  Ammonia  has 
been  used  as  an  antidote  to  chlorine  and  to  bromine.  Acidity  of  the  stomach  from  feeble 
digestion  is  benefited  by  this  medicine,  and  so  is  the  tympanites  which  is  often  asso- 
ciated with  it.  In  two  affections  in  which  spasm  of  the  larynx  is  a more  or  less  promi- 
nent symptom,  whooping  cough  and  epilepsy , the  inhalation  of  ammoniacal  fumes  has 
been  known  to  delay  or  prevent  the  paroxysm.  The  same  means  are  popularly  em- 
ployed to  relieve  syncope  from  all  causes,  and  the  various  conditions  which  lead  to  it  and 
to  which  nervous  women  are  subject.  Hence  it  is  the  basis  of  most  of  the  “smelling- 
salts.”  It  may  be  cautiously  used  in  all  cases  of  suspended  animation,  whether  from 
syncope  or  asphyxia.  In  these  and  various  analogous  conditions  the  utility  of  ammonia 
is  due  to  its  indirect  stimulation  of  the  heart.  It  has  been  manifested  in  the  advanced 
stage  of  many  exhausting  diseases.  Its  power  is  strongly  exhibited  when  disordered 
action  of  the  heart  depends  upon  either  its  positive  or  its  relative  debility — i.  e.  in  mus- 
cular wasting  or  valvular  obstruction.  It  has  been  proposed  to  employ  it  in  cholera  con- 
jointly with  large  aqueous  or  saline  intravenous  injections.  Ammonia  is,  if  promptly 
employed,  an  antidote  to  hydrocyanic  acid  and  to  alcoholic  intoxication.  The  best  mode 
of  administering  it  in  the  former  case  is  by  intravenous  injection.  For  this  purpose 
the  officinal  ammonia-water,  which  is  a 10  per  cent,  by  weight  solution,  is  diluted  with 
an  equal  quantity  of  pure  water,  and  about  a fluidrachm  at  a time  is  cautiously  inject- 
ed. The  revival  of  the  insensible  and  apparently  lifeless  patient  is  sometimes  very  prompt. 
(Compare  Glasgow  Med.  Jour.,  iv.  493;  Lancet,  1879,  p.  158;  Med.  Record,  xv.  532.) 
This  expedient  has  been  employed  successfully  in  poisoning  by  privy-gas  ( Boston  Med. 
and  Surg.  Jour.,  Sept.  1882,  p.  309).  Trusewitz  has  reported  a case  of  attempted 
suicide  by  muriatic  acid  in  which,  after  its  apparent  extinction,  life  was  restored  by  the 
hypodermic  injection  of  solution  of  ammonia.  The  caustic  produced  a circumscribed 
slough  ( Centralbl.  f.  Ther.,  iii.  163).  Locally  applied,  ammonia-water  relieves  the  pain 
of  the  stings  and  bites  of  bees,  wasps,  spiders,  mosquitoes,  etc.,  and  a large  amount  of 
evidence  exists  to  prove  its  antidotal  power  against  the  bites  of  serpents,  both  when 
administered  by  the  stomach  and  when  injected  into  voins.  The  latter  method  is 
alleged  to  be  by  far  the  most  efficient.  The  median  cephalic  vein  is  the  one  generally 
selected  for  the  operation,  and  from  5 to  20  drops  of  a strong  solution  of  ammonia  in  a 
fluidrachm  of  water  is  thrown  into  the  vein  with  a hypodermic  syringe.  The  clinical 
facts  relied  upon  for  establishing  the  efficacy  of  the  method  are  numerous,  but  the 
experiments  on  animals  by  Fontana  in  the  last  century  and  by  some  recent  observers 
gave  only  negative  or  doubtful  results  ( Times  and  Gaz.,  Dec.  1873,  p.  712;  Lancet , 
Sept.  19,  1874 ; Practitioner,  xl.  292).  Ammonia  has  been  administered  in  large  doses 
for  the  purpose  of  causing  resolution  of  fibrin  in  the  right  side  of  the  heart  and  in 
the  great  vessels.  In  three  out  of  four  cases  the  treatment  was  apparently  successful. 
It  is  found  experimentally  that  ammonia  mixed  with  blood  preserves  it  fresh  and  fluid 
for  a long  time.  Richardson,  who  proposed  this  treatment,  insists  on  the  perfect  repose 
of  the  patient  during  its  progress  (Med.  News,  xlix.  630).  Van  Wyck  recommends  the 
use  of  ammonia  to  hasten  the  removal  of  cerebral  clots  after  apoplexy,  with  the  caution 
that  it  should  not  be  given  until  ten  days  or  a fortnight  after  the  attack  (Med.  News, 
xlvi.  673;  compare  Munoz,  Bull,  de  Therap.,  cxiv.  184). 

The  dose  of  water  of  ammonia  is  from  Gtn.  60-2.00  (n^x-xxx),  largely  diluted.  The 


AQUA  AMYGDALAE  AM  ARM 


253 


stronger  prepartion  is  for  external  use.  It  may  be  applied  to  the  skin  on  some  porous 
tissue  saturated  with  it  and  covered  with  an  impermeable  substance.  In  from  three  to 
ten  minutes  the  desired  effect  may  be  expected.  Gondret’s  paste  is  formed  by  adding 
concentrated  water  of  ammonia  to  a mixture  of  melted  lard  and  tallow.  It  may  be 
applied  in  a disk-shaped  layer  an  inch  or  two  in  diameter.  It  is  apt  to  cauterize  the 
skin  too  deeply.  As  a rubefacient  ammonia  is  generally  associated  with  oil  or  some 
unctuous  substance,  and  should  be  applied  with  gentle  friction  to  the  skin. 

As  an  antidote  any  mild  vegetable  acid  (vinegar,  lemon-juice)  may  be  employed  to 
neutralize  the  uncombined  ammonia  in  the  stomach.  The  local  irritant  effects  require 
demulcent  and  protective  remedies. 

AQUA  AMYGDALAE  AMAR^E,  77  Bitter- Almond  Water. 

Aqua  amygdalarum  amararum , P.  G. — Eau  d’amandes  ameres,  Fr.  ; Bittermandel- 
wasser , G. ; Acqua  distillata  di  mandorle  amare , F.  It. 

Preparation. — Oil  of  Bitter  Almonds  1 Cc. ; Distilled  Water  999  Cc.  Dissolve 
the  oil  in  the  distilled  water  by  agitation  and  filter  through  a well-wetted  filter. — U.  S. 
(16  minims  of  oil  of  bitter  almonds,  dissolved  in  2 pints  of  distilled  water,  will  yield  a 
preparation  of  official  strength.) 

Made  by  this  process,  bitter-almond  water  is  a very  unreliable  preparation,  owing  to 
the  variable  amount  of  hydrocyanic  acid  contained  in  the  oil  of  bitter  almonds.  The 
following  will  yield  a water  of  definite  strength  in  hydrocyanic  acid ; and,  since  in  this 
form  the  latter  is  scarcely  prone  to  decomposition,  such  or  a similar  preparation  deserves 
to  take  the  place  of  the  officinal  hydrocyanic  acid  and  of  the  present  bitter-almond  water 
(see  Amer.  Jour,  of  Pharmacy , 1874,  p.  217)  : 

Bruise  Bitter  Almonds  12  parts,  and  express  as  much  fixed  oil  as  possible  without  the 
aid  of  heat.  Powder  the  press-cake,  mix  it  thoroughly  with  water  20  parts  and  distil 
off  9 parts  into  a receiver  containing  alcohol  3 parts,  determine  the  amount  of  hydro- 
cyanic acid  in  the  distillate,  and  then  dilute  with  a mixture  of  alcohol  1 part  and  distilled 
water  3 parts,  so  that  1000  parts  of  the  mixture  contain  1 part  of  hydrocyanic  acid. 

Thus  prepared,  bitter-almond  water  is  nearly  clear,  and  has  a strong  odor  of  hydro- 
cyanic acid  and  oil  of  bitter-almonds,  the  latter  remaining  after  the  hydrocyanic  acid  has 
been  removed  by  means  of  silver  nitrate. — P.  G. 

In  making  bitter-almond  water  by  the  latter  process  the  fixed  oil  is  removed,  because 
it  hinders  the  reaction  between  the  amygdalin  and  emulsin,  to  complete  wliicfi  maceration 
of  the  expressed  almonds  with  water  for  about  ten  or  twelve  hours  is  advisable  at  a 
temperature  of  about  30°  or  35°  C.  (86°  or  95°  F.).  The  almond  mixture  is  then 
placed  upon  a perforated  diaphragm  and  heat  applied  to  the  still.  Pettenkofer’s  process, 
which  has  been  adopted  by  the  Austrian  Pharmacopoeia,  differs  in  this:  that  11  parts  of 
the  powdered  bitter  almonds  are  twice  mixed  with  hot  water  and  boiled  to  dissolve  the 
amygdalin  ; the  expressed  decoctions,  when  cold,  are  mixed  with  1 part  of  powdered 
bitter  almonds,  macerated  and  distilled  as  before ; the  emulsin  contained  in  1 part  of  the 
almond  is  sufficient  to  decompose  the  whole  of  the  amygdalin,  and,  there  being  only  a 
small  amount  of  insoluble  matter  in  the  still,  the  distillation  proceeds  without  difficulty 
even  over  a naked  fire. 

When  the  requisite  quantity  of  water  has  distilled  over,  27  Gm.  of  the  distillate  are 
diluted  with  54  Gm.  of  distilled  water,  mixed  with  sufficient  magnesia,  previously  rubbed 
with  water  to  render  it  milky,  and  with  a few  drops  of  solution  of  potassium  chromate; 
decinormal  (volumetric)  solution  of  silver  nitrate  is  then  added  until  the  red  color 
produced  by  the  latter  ceases  to  disappear  on  stirring ; each  Cc.  of  the  silver  solution 
represents  .01  per  cent,  of  HCy.  A bitter-almond  water  containing  .1  per  cent,  of  hydro- 
cyanic acid  will  require  10  Cc.  of  the  silver  solution.  The  strength  may  also  be  deter- 
mined gravimetric-ally  by  adding  to  1000  grains  of  the  water  first  a little  ammonia,  then 
a slight  excess  of  nitric  acid,  and  finally  solution  of  silver  nitrate  until  a precipitate 
ceases  to  appear ; this,  when  washed  and  dried,  should  weigh  exactly  5 grains ; if  it 
weighs  more  the  distillate  must  be  diluted ; should  it  weigh  less,  which  may  happen  if 
the  almond-powder  has  not  been  macerated  with  water  or  if  the  bitter  almonds  have  been 
mixed  with  sweet  almonds,  it  is  best  to  redistil  the  water,  adding,  if  necessary,  some  com- 
mon water  to  the  retort,  and  recovering  a quantity  calculated  beforehand  from  the  weight 
of  the  precipitate. 

This  bitter-almond  water  has  exactly  one-twentieth  the  strength  of  the  diluted  hydro- 
cyanic acid,  but  is  much  stronger  than  that  of  the  U.  8.  Pharmacopoeia,  the  latter  corre- 


254 


A Q UA  A NETIII.—A  QUA  AURA  NTH  FL  OR  UM  FOR  TIOR. 


sponding  perhaps  better  with  the  Aqua  amygdalarum  amararum,  diluta  (vel  Aqua  cera- 
sorum ) which  the  German  Pharmacopoeia  (1872)  prepared  by  mixing  1 part  of  the  above 
almond-water  with  19  parts  of  distilled  water.  If  the  oil  of  bitter  almonds  has  been 
previously  deprived  of  its  hydrocyanic  acid,  the  bitter-almond  water  prepared  from  it 
will  possess  no  virtues  except  for  imparting  flavor. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  uncertain — and  unsafe  as  well  as  uncertain — preparation, 
as  directed  by  U.  S.  P.,  is  not  officinal  in  the  British  Pharmacopoeia.  If  hydrocyanic 
acid  must  be  given  internally,  it  may  be  administered  with  less  risk  in  the  form  of 
potassium  cyanide.  The  dose  of  the  concentrated  German  preparation  is  Gm.  1-2 
(npx-xxx),  and  of  the  American  Gm.  10-15  (3  or  4 teaspoonfuls). 

AQUA  ANETHI,  Br. — Dill- Water. 

Eau  d' aneth , Fr. ; Dillwasser , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Dill-Fruit  bruised  1 pound;  Water  2 gallons.  Distil  1 
Imperial  gallon  ( = 10  pounds). — Br. 

The  water,  which  is  at  first  slightly  milky  if  prepared  by  this  process,  possesses  the 
odor  and  taste  of  dill-fruit. 

Action  and  Uses. — It  does  not  increase  the  lacteal  secretion,  but  imparts  to  it  an 
aromatic  flavor,  which  renders  its  administration  to  the  nursing  mother  convenient  in 
cases  of  infantile  colic.  It,  however,  has  no  advantage  in  taste  or  action  over  anise- 
water,  which  it  in  all  respects  resembles.  It  is  seldom  used  in  this  country. 

AQUA  ANISI,  U.  Br. — Anise-water. 

Eau  d'anis , Fr. ; Aniswasser,  G. ; Acqua  distillata,  di  anice,  F.  It. 

Preparation. — Oil  of  Anise  2 Cc. ; Precipitated  Calcium  Phosphate  4 Gm. ; Dis- 
tilled Water  a sufficient  quantity;  to  make  1000  Cc.  Triturate  the  oil  with  the  calcium 
phosphate,  add  the  water  gradually  under  constant  trituration,  and  filter. — U.  S. 

(32  minims  of  oil  of  anise  may  be  triturated  with  60  grains  of  calcium  phosphate,  and 
will  require  2 pints  of  distilled  water.) 

Anise-fruit  bruised  1 pound ; water  2 gallons.  Distil  1 Imperial  gallon  (=  10 
pounds). — Br.  Distilled  from  the  fruit,  anise-water  has  a more  pleasant  odor  and  taste 
than  that  made  from  the  oil. 

Action  and  Uses. — Anise-water  is  an  agreeable  and  useful  vehicle  for  medicines 
intended  to  expel  flatus  and  to  allay  colic  and  the  pain  of  laborious  digestion.  It  is  often 
used  to  mitigate  the  griping  of  senna,  rhubarb,  jalap,  and  other  purgatives,  and  as  a 
suitable  vehicle  for  magnesia.  It  is  thought  also  to  be  an  appropriate  excipient  for 
expectorant  medicines.  Dose,  Gm.  16-32  (f^ss-i)  and  upward. 

AQUA  AURANTII  FLORUM,  JJ.  S. — Orange-flower  Water. 

Aqua  aurantii  florisj  Br.  ; Aqua  florum  naphse. — Eau  ( Hydrolat ) de  fleur  di  or  anger,  Eau 
de  naphe,  Fr. ; Orangenbliithenwasser , G. ; Acqua  distillata  di  arancio , F.  It.;  Agua  de 
azaliar , Sp. 

Preparation. — Stronger  Orange-flower  Water,  Distilled  Water,  of  each  1 volume. 
Mix  them  immediately  before  use. — U.  S. 

Action  and  Uses. — Orange-flower  water  is  more  remarkable  for  its  delicate  and 
refreshing  perfume  than  for  active  medicinal  properties.  It  forms  a pleasant  flavoring 
ingredient  of  many  potions,  and  may  be  prescribed  for  nervous  persons  during  attacks 
of  neuralgic  headache , palpitation  of  the  heart,  and  a variety  of  minor  hysteroidal  dis- 
orders, the  offspring  of  indolence  and  self-indulgence. 

AQUA  AURANTH  FLORUM  FORTIOR,  U.  Stronger  Orange- 
flower  Water;  Triple  Orange -flower  Water. 

Water  saturated  with  the  volatile  oil  of  fresh  Orange-flowers,  obtained  as  a by-product 
in  the  distillation  of  the  oil  of  orange-flowers.  It  should  be  kept  in  loosely-stoppered 
bottles  in  a dark  place. — U.  S. 

The  French  Codex  directs  the  distillation,  by  means  of  steam,  of  twice  the  weight  of 
the  fresh  orange-flowers  used.  Thus  prepared,  it  is  called  in  commerce  double  orange- 
flower  water , and  if  it  is  diluted  with  its  own  weight  of  distilled  water  it  is  known  as 


AQUA  AURA  NTH  FLORUM  FORT  I OR. 


255 

simple  orange-flower  water.  The  so-called  triple  and  quadruple  orange-flower  waters  are 
also  met  with  in  commerce,  the  former  being  obtained  bv  distilling  3 parts,  the  latter  by 
distilling  2 parts,  of  water  from  2 parts  of  fresh  orange-flowers. 

Distilled  orange-flower  water  is  a clear  and  colorless  or  slightly  opalescent  liquid  of  a 
very  agreeable  odor  and  aromatic  taste,  which  cannot  be  imitated  by  preparing  the  water 
from  the  oil  of  orange-flowers  (neroli).  As  distilled  from  the  flowers,  it  possibly  contains 
some  volatile  ethers,  which  are  freely  soluble  in  water  and  not  contained  in  the  volatile 
oil.  Occasionally,  commercial  orange-flower  water  has  separated  mucilaginous  flocks, 
which  may  be  removed  by  agitation  with  powdered  kaolin  and  filtration.  If  it  has 
acquired  an  acid  reaction,  it  is  advisable  to  distil  it  over  magnesia.  The  total  absence  of 
metallic  salts,  resulting  from  the  use  of  a metallic  condenser  or  from  keeping  the  water 
in  metallic  vessels,  is  proved  by  its  remaining  unaffected  by  hydrogen  sulphide  and  by 
ammonium  sulphide.  Occasionally  distilled,  orange-flower  water  has  been  met  with  which 
acquires  a red  color  on  the  addition  of  an  acid ; the  cause  of  this  abnormal  behavior  has 
not  been  ascertained,  but  may  perhaps  be  due  to  some  accidental  impurity. 

Action  and  Uses. — Stronger  orange  flower-water  is  only  used  for  the  preparation 
of  aqua  aurantii  florum. 

AQUA  CAMPHORS,  U.  $.,  Br  — Camphor-water. 

Aqua  camphorata. — Eau  campliree , Fr. ; Kamplierwasser , G. ; Aqua  alcavforada , Sp. 

Preparation. — Camphor  8 Gm. ; Alcohol  5 Cc. ; Precipitated  Calcium  Phosphate  5 
Gm. ; Distilled  Water  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Triturate  the  camphor 
with  the  alcohol,  afterward  with  the  calcium  phosphate,  and  with  the  water  gradually 
added.  Finally,  filter. — U.  S. 

(120  grains  of  camphor,  80  minims  of  alcohol,  and  80  grains  of  calcium  phosphate 
may  be  used  in  making  2 pints  of  camphor-water.) 

Take  of  camphor  broken  in  pieces  half  an  ounce ; distilled  water  1 gallon.  Enclose 
the  camphor  in  a muslin  bag,  and  attach  this  to  one  end  of  a glass  rod,  by  means  of 
which  it  may  be  kept  at  the  bottom  of  a bottle  containing  the  distilled  water.  Close 
mouth  of  the  bottle,  macerate  for  at  least  two  days,  and  then  pour  off  the  solution  when 
it  is  required. — Br. 

This  is  intended  to  be  a saturated  solution  of  camphor  in  water.  R.  Rother  (1871) 
has  shown  that  very  cold  water  dissolves  more  camphor  than  can  be  retained  in  solution 
at  the  ordinary  temperature,  the  excess  crystallizing  out,  leaving,  after  filtration,  such  a 
saturated  solution  as  is  intended  by  the  pharmacopoeias.  In  preparing  camphor-water  by 
the  above  processes  cold  water  should  therefore  be  used.  Prepared  with  the  aid  of  mag- 
nesium carbonate  by  the  process  of  the  U.  S.  P.  1870,  camphor-water  contained,  according 
to  G.  F.  II.  Markoe  (1865),  2 grains  of  camphor  in  the  fluidounce;  that  of  the  British 
Pharmacopoeia,  only  1 grain. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  proportion  of  1 grain  of  camphor  which  is  contained  in 
each  1 fluidounce  of  this  preparation  is  not  sufficient  to  develop  the  more  potent  effects 
of  the  drug,  yet  quite  enough  to  sustain  the  nervous  system  in  the  minor  grades  of 
exhaustion  and  prostration  into  which  it  is  apt  to  fall  in  low  fevers  on  the  one  hand,  and 
in  states  of  nervous  debility  and  disorder  on  the  other.  Its  anodyne  and  antispasmodic 
influence  is  shown  in  mild  attacks  of  neuralgia , of  nervous  headache , of  colie , of  dys- 
meuorrhsea  depending  upon  an  irritable  state  of  the  uterus,  in  after-pains,  in  hiccup , and 
in  nervous  palpitation  of  the  heart.  The  average  dose  is  about  Gm.  16  (f^ss),  which  may 
be  repeated  at  intervals  of  an  hour  or  two. 

AQUA  CARUI,  Hr. — Caraway-water. 

Aqua  carui. — Eau  distillee  de  carvi , Fr.  ; Kiiminelwasser , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Caraway  Fruit  bruised  1 pound  (avoirdupois)  ; Water  20 
pounds.  Distil  10  pounds  (avoirdupois)  (1  gallon  Imperial). — Br. 

This  water  has  the  flavor  of  the  fruit  in  a marked  degree. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  properties  of  carawav-water  are  almost  identical  with 
those  of  anise-water  ; it  may  be  given  in  the  dose  of  a fluidrachrn  (Gm.  4)  or  more. 


256 


AQUA  CHLORL 


AQUA  CHLORI,  TJ.  S . — Chlorine-water. 

Liquor  cfilori , Br. ; Aqua  chlorata , P.  G. ; Aqua  clilorinii , U.  S.  1870  ; Chlorum  solutum , 
Aqua  oxymuriatica. — Solution  of  chlorine , E. ; Eau  chloree , Chlore  liquid e,  Fr.  ; Chlor- 
wasser , Gr. ; Acqua  di  cloro , F.  It. 

An  aqueous  solution  of  chlorine  containing  at  least  .4  per  cent.  (£7.  >8.,  P.  6r.),  not  less 
than  .6  (ih\),  of  the  gas. 

Symbol  of  chlorine  Cl.  Atomicity  univalent.  Atomic  weight  35.37. 

Origin. — Chlorine  was  discovered  by  Scheele  (1774),  and  was  at  first  called  dephlo- 
gisticated  muriatic  acid,  afterward  oxymuriatic  acid,  under  the  supposition  that  it  was  a 
compound  of  muriatic  acid  with  oxygen.  Gay-Lussac  and  Thenard  (1809)  showed  that 
from  its  behavior  it  might  be  regarded  as  an  element,  a view  which  was  strengthened  by 
the  researches  of  Humphry  Davy  (1810),  who  called  it  chloric  gas,  which  name  was 
changed  to  chlorine  by  Gay-Lussac  (1813).  Chlorine  is  widely  distributed  in  nature, 
but  owing  to  its  affinity  for  other  elements  it  is  never  found  in  the  isolated  state.  It 
exists  in  many  minerals,  in  most  spring-waters,  in  sea-water,  in  plants,  and  in  animals, 
and  is  liberated  from  the  chlorides  by  the  combined  action  of  sulphuric  action  and  an 
oxidizing  agent. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Manganese  Dioxide  10  Gm. ; Hydrochloric  Acid  35 
Cc. ; Water,  75  Cc. ; Distilled  Water  400  Cc.  Place  the  oxide  in  a flask  connected  by  a 
suitable  tube  with  a small  wash-bottle  containing  50  Cc.  of  water,  and  connect  this  with 
a bottle  having  a capacity  of  1000  Cc.,  and  containing  400  Cc.  of  distilled  water  which 
has  previously  been  boiled  and  allowed  to  cool.  Add  to  the  oxide  in  the  generating  flask 
the  hydrochloric  acid,  previously  diluted  with  25  Cc.  of  water,  and  by  means  of  a sand- 
bath  apply  a gentle  heat.  Conduct  the  generated  chlorine  through  the  water  contained 
in  the  wash-bottle  to  the  bottom  of  the  bottle  containing  distilled  water,  which  should 
be  loosely  stopped  with  cotton  and  kept  during  the  operation  at  a temperature  of  about 
10°  C.  (50°  F.).  When  the  air  has  been  entirely  displaced  by  the  gas,  disconnect  the 
bottle  from  the  apparatus,  and,  having  inserted  the  stopper,  shake  the  bottle,  loosening 
the  stopper  from  time  to  time,  until  the  gas  ceases  to  be  absorbed.  If  necessary,  recon- 
nect the  bottle  with  the  apparatus,  and  continue  passing  the  gas  and  agitating,  until  the 
distilled  water  is  saturated.  Finally,  pour  the  chlorine-water  into  small,  dark  amber- 
colored,  glass-stoppered  bottles,  which  should  be  completely  filled  therewith,  and  keep 
them  in  a dark  and  cool  place.  Chlorine-water,  even  when  kept  from  light  and  air,  is 
apt  to  deteriorate.  When  it  is  required  of  full  strength  it  should  be  freshly  pre- 
pared.— U.  S. 

(When  it  is  desired  to  make  chlorine-water  by  the  pharmacopoeial  method,  150  grains 
of  manganese  dioxide,  14  fluidounces  of  hydrochloric  acid,  24  fluidounces  of  water,  and 
134  fluidounces  of  distilled  water  may  be  used,  and  the  official  directions  then  followed.) 

This  process  is  identical  with  that  of  the  British  Pharmacopoeia,  except  as  to  weights 
and  measures,  but  both  aim  at  a saturated  solution  of  chlorine  in  water  with  the  simplest 
manipulation.  In  following  the  Pharmacopoeia  the  best  corks  should  be  used  for  the 
generating-flask  and  wash-bottle,  since  porous  corks  are  readily  penetrated  and  destroyed 
by  chlorine  gas.  This  gas  is  generated  by  the  action  of  hydrochloric  acid  upon  man- 
ganese dioxide,  manganese  chloride,  chlorine,  and  water  being  produced;  Mn02-(-4HCl 
yields  MnCl2  -f-  Cl2  -f-  2H20.  If  the  undiluted  acid  of  the  Pharmacopoeia  is  employed, 
the  evolution  of  chlorine  gas  will  commence  without  heat  being  applied,  and  will  con- 
tinue for  some  time.  Diluted  as  directed,  the  application  of  heat  is  necessary  from 
the  beginning.  A strong  heat  should  not  be  used  at  first,  since  hydrochloric  acid  gas 
would  be  carried  over  into  the  wash-bottle.  The  loss  of  acid  may  be  entirely  avoided 
if  the  manganese  oxide  is  used  in  small  lumps  instead  of  in  powder,  and  in  sufficient 
quantity  so  as  not  to  be  covered  by  the  acid.  Although  chlorine  is  soluble  in  water  to 
a considerable  extent,  it  does  not  dissolve  very  readily  ; hence  gas-bubbles  will  soon  pass 
through  the  water  without  being  much  diminished  in  size.  The  pharmacopoeias  direct  the 
use  of  receiving-bottles  which  are  but  partially  filled  with  water.  The  atmosphere  in  the 
upper  part  of  the  bottle  will  gradually  be  displaced  by  the  heavier  chlorine,  and  when  the 
latter  begins  to  escape  from  the  mouth  of  the  bottle,  this  is  disconnected  from  the  appa- 
ratus, loosely  corked,  and  agitated,  when  the  gas  will  be  absorbed.  The  bottle,  which 
should  be  protected  from  the  light,  is  then  replaced,  and  the  operation  repeated  until  no 
further  diminution  of  the  pressure  is  observed  in  the  bottle  on  being  gently  agitated  when 
filled  with  chlorine.  The  British  Pharmacopoeia  directs  the  agitation  of  the  bottle  only 


AQUA  CHLORI. 


257 


after  the  evolution  of  chlorine  gas  has  ceased ; much  of  the  gas  may  be  lost  by  not 
repeating  the  agitation  several  times. 

The  temperature  best  suited  for  dissolving  the  chlorine  in  water  is  10°  C.  (50°  F.). 
Near  the  freezing-point  of  water  a solid  chlorine  hydrate,  C1.5H20,  is  formed,  which  is 
less  soluble  in  water  than  the  gas.  At  the  temperature  indicated  water  dissolves,  accord- 
ing to  Schonfeld,  2.585  times  its  volume  of  gas,  the  solubility  being  gradually  lessened 
as  the  temperature  rises.  When  the  operation  is  finished  it  is  well  to  pour  the  chlorine- 
water  at  once  into  small  glass-stoppered  vials,  which  should  be  completely  filled  and  kept 
in  a cool  and  dark  place.  The  stoppers  should  be  secured  by  twine,  or,  as  suggested  by 
Hager,  by  bladder  which  has  been  previously  coated  with  a mixture  of  collodion  and 
paraffin. 

For  the  preparation  of  chlorine  on  the  large  scale,  as  in  the  manufacture  of  chlorinated 
lime,  sulphuric  acid  is  sometimes  used  in  addition  to  the  manganese  dioxide  and  hydro- 
chloric acid,  when  all  the  chlorine  contained  in  the  latter  is  obtained  and  manganous 
sulphate  is  left  in  solution.  Or  the  generation  of  hydrochloric  acid  and  of  chlorine  is 
effected  in  one  operation  by  the  use  of  sulphuric  acid,  sodium  chloride,  and  manganese 
dioxide,  in  which  case  the  sulphates  of  sodium  and  of  manganese  remain  behind. 

For  special  purposes  chlorine  maybe  prepared  by  the  action  of  hydrochloric  acid  upon 
potassium  dichromate  ; 14HC1  4-  K2Cr207  yield  3C12  + 2KC1  + Cr2Cl6  + 7H20,  the  result 
being  chlorine,  potassium  chloride,  chromium  chloride,  and  water.  Or  pptassium  chlo- 
rate may  be  decomposed  by  hydrochloric  acid,  with  the  formation  of  chlorine,  potassium 
chloride,  and  water;  6HC1  + KC103  yields  3C12  + KC1 -f- 3H20,  but  the  gas  is  in  this 
case  apt  to  be  contaminated  with  hypochlorous  acid. 

During  the  preparation  and  handling  of  chlorine-water  the  operator  should  be  careful 
not  to  inhale  the  gas,  on  account  of  its  irritating  and  poisonous  properties.  Should  its 
effects  be  perceived,  it  is  advisable  to  carefully  inhale  a little  ammonium  sulphide,  which 
is  decomposed  by  the  chlorine  into  ammonium  chloride  and  sulphur.  It  should,  how- 
ever, be  cautiously  used,  since  an  excess  of  this  compound  is  likewise  poisonous.  A 
little  ammonia,  sufficiently  diluted,  may  also  be  taken  with  advantage. 

Properties. — Chlorine  is  a greenish-yellow,  irrespirable,  corrosive  gas,  having  the 
spec.  grav.  2.45  as  compared  with  air,  and  becoming  liquid  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  under  a 
pressure  of  four  atmospheres.  Liquid  chlorine  is  dark  yellow,  congeals  at  — 102°  C. 
( — 152°  F.),  and  boils  at — 33.6°  C.  ( — 28.5°  F.).  Chlorine  is  not  inflammable,  but 
is  capable  of  supporting  combustion. 

Chlorine-water  is  a clear,  greenish-yellow  liquid  possessing  the  suffocating  odor  and 
acrid,  irritating  taste  of  chlorine,  evaporating  without  leaving  any  residue,  but  separating 
crystals  of  chlorine  hydrate  when  cooled  to  the  freezing-point  of  water.  Its  specific 
gravity  is  1.003  ( Br .)  when  saturated  at  6°  C.  (42.8°  F.)  (Berthollet).  It  instantly 
discharges  the  color  of  diluted  solutions  of  indigo  and  litmus,  and  bleaches  vegetable 
coloring-matters  generally.  Exposed  to  light,  it  is  decomposed  into  hydrochloric  acid 
and  oxygen.  It  is  a powerful  oxidizing  agent,  and  this  property  serves  to  readily  ascer- 
tain its  strength.  A fluidounce  of  it,  mixed  with  a solution  of  14  grains  of  pure  ferrous 
sulphate,  does  not  produce  a blue  precipitate  with  potassium  ferricyanide,  indicating  that 
the  salt  has  been  completely  oxidized  to  ferric  sulphate,  and  proving  that  the  water 
contains  0.4  per  cent,  of  chlorine. 

Tests. — Chlorine-water  should  evaporate  without  leaving  any  residue.  Agitated 
with  an  excess  of  mercury  until  the  odor  of  chlorine  has  disappeared,  the  remaining 
liquid  reddens  litmus-paper  but  faintly,  if  at  all  (limit  of  hydrochloric  acid)  ( U \ S.~). 
The  test  of  the  British  Pharmacopoeia  indicates  a strength  of  0.6  per  cent.  It  is  applied 
as  follows : A solution  of  20  grains  of  potassium  iodide  in  an  ounce  of  water  yields 
with  439  grains  of  chlorine-water  a deep  red-colored  liquid,  which  requires  for  the  dis- 
charge of  its  color  750  grain-measures  of  the  volumetric  solution  of  sodium  thiosul- 
phate, corresponding  to  2.66  grains  of  chlorine. 

On  mixing  17.7  Gm.  of  chlorine-water  with  a solution  of  1 Gm.  of  potassium  iodide 
in  10  Gm.  of  water,  the  resulting  deep-red  liquid  should  require  for  complete  decolora- 
tion at  least  20  Cc.  of  decinorraal  solution  of  sodium  thiosulphate  (corresponding  to  at 
least  0.4  percent,  of  chlorine.) — U.  S.  The  requirements  of  the# German  Pharmaco- 
poeia are  identical  with  these,  25  Gm.  of  chlorine-water,  1 Gm.  of  potassium  iodide,  and 
28.2  Cc.  of  the  thiosulphate  solution  being  used. 

The  volumetric  determination  of  the  chlorine  is  indirectly  accomplished,  and  is  based 
upon  the  fact  that  chlorine  is  capable  of  displacing  iodine  and  bromine  in  equivalent 
17 


258 


AQUA  CHLOROFORM!. 


proportions ; thus,  2KI  4-  Cl2  = 2KC1  + I2.  In  the  pharmacopceial  test  the  chlorine 
which  should  be  present  in  17.7  Gm.  of  chlorine-water  will  liberate  0.251  + Gm.  of 
iodine  (this  being  kept  in  solution  by  the  remainder  of  the  potassium  iodide),  and  hence 
20  Cc.  of  decinormal  sodium  thiosulphate  solution,  containing  (0.024764  X 20)  0.49528 
Gm.  Na2S2035H20,  will  be  required  to  discharge  the  color  according  to  the  equation- 
I2  + 2(Na2S2035H20)  = 2(NaI)  + Na2S206  + 10H2O. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  action  of  chlorine-water  in  large  doses  and  internally  is 
that  of  an  irritant  poison.  In  a diluted  state  it  acts  locally  as  a stimulant  and  disinfect- 
ant, and  on  absorption  is  supposed  to  quicken  all  the  functions  and  purify  the  blood  in 
typhoid  forms  of  disease  depending  upon  an  animal  poison  generated  within  the  system 
or  absorbed  from  without.  It  is  highly  probable  that  this  view  of  its  operation  is 
derived  chiefly  from  its  power  of  neutralizing  the  foul  odors  of  decomposition.  The 
efficacy  of  chlorine  in  typhus  fever , in  scarlet  fever , in  diphtheria,  in  small-pox , etc.  is 
wholly  undemonstrated,  except  in  so  far  as  it  is  a palliative  of  certain  local  and  subor- 
dinate symptoms,  such  putrid  angina  and  a burning  heat  of  the  skin.  In  all  forms  of 
sore  throat  attended  with  fetid  discharges  and  an  ulcerated  or  torpid  condition  of  the 
mucous  membrane,  washes  and  gargles  of  chlorine-water  may  be  used  with  the  same 
advantage  as  other  stimulant  disinfectants.  A like  statement  may  be  made  regarding 
other  forms  of  disease  in  which  the  intestinal  discharges  are  peculiarly  fetid,  as  in  certain 
cases  of  typhoid  fever  and  of  typhoid  types  of  dysentery , small-pox , etc.  Chlorine-water 
is  to  be  commended  as  a wash  or  dressing  for  all  forms  of  sores  which  have  a fetid  dis- 
charge, even  for  cancerous  ulcers,  and  as  a lotion  for  the  skin  when  the  crusts  formed  by 
small-pox  pustules  become  offensive.  Chlorinated  water  has  been  reputed  to  have  the 
power  of  preventing  the  infection  of  syphilis  and  of  puerperal  fever — in  the  one  case  by  its 
use  in  washing  the  genitals  after  impure  coition,  and  in  the  other  by  cleansing  the  hands 
of  accoucheurs  after  attendance  upon  cases  of  the  disease.  Supposing  the  alleged  effect 
to  be  real,  which  is  by  no  means  proven,  it  is  not  quite  clear  that  an  equally  diligent  use 
of  soap  would  not  have  been  followed  by  an  equal  degree  of  immunity.  Chlorinated 
oil,  made  by  passing  chlorine  gas  through  olive  oil,  has  been  found  efficient  in  scabies  and 
as  a parasiticide  generally.  At  one  time  chlorine  gas  was  used  by  inhalation  in  various 
bronchial  affections,  and  especially  in  phthisis  and  fetid  bronchitis , but  atomized  chlorine- 
water  is  preferable. 

Since  the  belief  began  to  prevail  that  every  infectious  and  contagious  disease  is  repre- 
sented b}7  a specific  germ  through  which  it  is  disseminated,  and  the  discovery  was  made 
that  chlorine  ranks  highly  among  germicides,  it  has  been  held  not  only  that  the  diseases 
in  question  are  preventive  and  curable  by  chlorine,  but  also  that  it  possesses  this  virtue 
through  its"  germicide  powers.  The  germ  theory,  when  strictly  examined,  is  seen  to  be 
little  more  than  an  hypothesis,  and  hence  the  manner  and  degree  of  the  efficiency  of 
chlorine  cannot  be  regarded  as  established.  As  local  and  general  stimulants,  as  deodor- 
izers, and  disinfectants,  its  preparations  are  valuable.  Dr.  Squibb  has  pointed  out  that 
the  chlorides  are  not  available  disinfectants,  while  the  hypochlorites  are  so  because  they 
give  off  chlorine  during  their  reduction  to  chlorides. 

The  dose  of  chlorine-water  is  from  Gm.  4-16  (fgj-iv),  largely  diluted.  For  inhalation, 
when  atomized,  a solution  of  Gm.  0.30-0.60  (npv-x)  in  water  may  be  used.  Antidotes: 
After  emesis  with  warm  water,  albumen  in  the  form  of  milk,  white  of  egg,  veal-broth, 
etc.,  flour  and  water,  or  lime-water. 


AQUA  CHLOROFORMI,  77.  S.,  Br. — Chloroform-water. 

Eau  de  chloroforme , Fr. ; Chloroformwasser , G. 

Preparation. — Add  enough  Chloroform  to  a convenient  quantity  of  Distilled  Water, 
contained  in  a bottle,  to  have  a portion  remaining  undissolved,  after  the  contents  have 
been  repeatedly  and  thoroughly  agitated. 

When  Chloroform  Water  is  required  for  use,  pour  off  a sufficient  quantity  of  the  solu- 
tion, refill  the  bottle  with  Distilled  Water,  and  saturate  it  by  thorough  agitation,  taking 
care  that  there  be  always  an  excess  of  Chloroform  present. — U.  S. 

Take  of  chloroform  1 fluidrachm  ; distilled  water  25  fluidounces.  Put  them  into  a 
two-pint  stoppered  bottle,  and  shake  them  together  until  the  chloroform  is  entirely  dis- 
solved in  the  water. — (JBr.)  A fluidounce  represents  about  2 minims  of  chloroform. 

Both  pharmacopoeias  aim  to  produce  a saturated  aqueous  solution  of  chloroform,  the 
solubility  of  the  latter  substance  in  water  being  considered  as  about  1 in  200. 


AQUA  CINNA M OMI. — AQ U A CREOSOTI. 


259 


Action  and  Uses. — The  dose  prescribed  by  the  British  Pharmacopoeia  is  from  £ 
fluidounce  to  2 fluidounces. 

The  wonderful  preservative  properties  of  chloroform-water  make  it  a desirable  solvent 
for  many  organic  substances  in  cases  where  an  aqueous  menstruum  is  wanted. 

Beurmann  claims  that  chloroform  remains  unchanged  for  a long  time  in  its  watery 
solution  {Bull,  de  Th&rap .,  cv.  97).  It  is  convenient  as  an  anti-fermentative  solution  of 
chloroform.  It  is  well  adapted  for  a mouth-wash  or  gargle,  both  to  relieve  the  pain  of 
toothache  and  sore  throat  and  to  stimulate  the  mucous  membrane  of  the  mouth  and 
pharynx,  and  internally  to  relieve  all  abdominal  pains,  but  especially  those  of  gastralgia. 
It  is  also  useful  as  a haemostatic , especially  in  operations  upon  the  mouth,  throat, 
vagina,  rectum,  etc.  The  acrid  taste  of  the  preparation  may  be  removed  by  mint-water, 
orange-flower  water,  etc.  On  the  other  hand,  it  may  be  used  to  mask  the  taste  of  vari- 
ous medicines  or  to  render  the  stomach  more  tolerant  of  them.  It  is  a convenient  adju- 
vant to  other  anodynes,  such  as  morphine,  the  bromides,  etc.,  and  to  purgative  mix- 
tures that  tend  to  occasion  griping,  and  as  a vehicle  for  hypodermic  solutions  that  tend 
to  undergo  decomposition. 

AQUA  CINNAMOMI,  U*  S;  Br,,  JP.  (2.- -Cinnamon-water. 

Eau  de  canelle , Fr. ; Zimmtwasser , G. ; Acqua  distillata  di  cannella,  F.  It.,  Sp. 

Preparation. — Oil  of  Cinnamon,  2 Cc. ; Precipitated  Calcium  Phosphate,  4 Grin. ; 
Distilled  Water,  a sufficient  quantity ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Triturate  the  oil  with  the 
calcium  phosphate,  add  the  water  gradually  under  constant  trituration,  and  filter. — 

u.  s. 

(32  minims  of  oil  of  cinnamon  may  be  triturated  with  60  grains  of  calcium  phos- 
phate, and  will  require  2 pints  of  distilled  water.) 

The  British  Pharmacopoeia  directs  the  distillation  of  1 Imperial  gallon  (10  pounds)  of 
cinnamon-water  from  20  ounces  of  bruised  Ceylon  cinnamon,  or  in  proportion  of  8 parts 
of  water  from  1 part  of  bark.  The  present  German  Pharmacopoeia  recognizes  as  Aqua 
cinnamomi  a distilled  water  formerly  called  Aqua  cinncimomi  spirituosa  (s.  vinosa ),  and 
made  by  distilling  10  parts  from  a mixture  of  sufficient  water,  1 part  of  alcohol  specific 
gravity  0.832,  and  1 part  of  Chinese  cinnamon. 

Properties. — Obtained  by  any  one  of  these  processes,  cinnamon-water  is  somewhat 
turbid,  but  gradually  becomes  clear.  * Made  from  the  oil,  it  has  the  odor  and  a some- 
what harsh  taste  of  cinnamon,  but  if  distilled  from  the  bark  its  odor  is  more  fragrant 
and  its  taste  decidedly  sweet.  Cinnamon-water  made  with  magnesia  has  a yellowish 
color,  unless  carbon  dioxide  gas  is  passed  through  it  or  a small  quantity  of  some  other 
acid  is  added.  In  contact  with  the  air  the  volatile  oil  is  oxidized,  and  crystals  of  cin- 
namic acid  and  small  particles  of  a brownish  resin  are  frequently  separated. 

Action  and  Uses. — Cinnamon-water  possess  the  stimulant  and  carminative  prop- 
erties of  the  bark  from  which  it  is  derived,  but  is  seldom  used  except  as  a vehicle  for 
other  medicines  with  which  it  can  co-operate.  It  is  most  commonly  employed  in  mix- 
tures for  flatulent  colic  and  diarrhoea,  and  in  the  latter  affection  as  a vehicle  for  chalk, 
astringents,  and  opiates. 

AQUA  CREOSOTI,  U.  >S'.— Creosote- Water. 

Eau  creosotee , Fr. ; Kreosotwasser , G. 

Preparation. — Creosote,  10  Cc. ; Distilled  Water,  990  Cc. ; to  make  1000  Cc. 
Agitate  the  creosote  with  the  distilled  water  until  dissolved,  and  filter  through  a well- 
wetted  filter. — U.  S. 

(1  fluidrachm  of  creosote  agitated  with  99  fluidrachms  of  distilled  water,  and  filtered, 
will  furnish  12£  fluidounces  of  official  creosote-water.) 

Action  and  Uses. — This  preparation  contains  in  every  2 fluidrachms  rather  more 
than  1 minim  of  creasote,  and  is  a convenient  form  of  that  medicine  for  all  the  cases  in 
which  it  should  be  given  diluted,  and  also  as  a topical  application  in  leucorrhoea,  gleet , 
burns,  chilblains,  ulcers  (especially  such  as  are  attended  with  an  excessive,  thin,  or  fetid 
discharge),  gangrene,  arid  various  cutaneous  eruptions,  particularly  prurigo,  eczema,  sycosis , 
etc.  Dose,  Gm.  4-16  (fgj-iv). 


260 


AQUA  DESTILLATA.—AQUA  FCENICULI. 


AQUA  DESTILLATA,  U.  8.,  Br.,  B.  G.—  Distilled  Water. 

Eau  distillee , Hydrolat  simple , Fr. ; Destillirtes  Wasser , G. 

Composition  H20.  Molecular  weight  17.96. 

Preparation. — Water  1000  volumes  ; to  make  800  volumes.  Distil  the  water  from 
a suitable  apparatus  provided  with  a block-tin  or  glass  condenser.  Collect  the  first  100 
volumes  and  throw  them  away.  Then  collect  800  volumes,  and  keep  the  distilled 
water  in  glass-stoppered  bottles,  rinsed  with  hot  distilled  water  immediately  before  being 
filled. — U.  S. 

Take  of  water  10  gallons.  Distil  from  a copper  still  connected  with  a block-tin  worm; 
reject  the  first  half  gallon  and  preserve  the  next  8 gallons. — Br. 

When  ordinary  water  is  heated  to  ebullition  the  gases  and  volatile  compounds  dissolved 
therein  are  also  vaporized  and  carried  off  with  the  vapors  of  the  water,  which,  if  con- 
densed, would  then  be  more  highly  charged  with  these  volatile  compounds ; hence  the 
necessity  of  rejecting  the  first  portion  of  the  distillate,  as  directed  by  the  pharmacopoeias. 
On  the  other  hand,  if  the  distillation  is  continued  until  all  the  water  is  vaporized  from 
the  still,  the  last  portions  are  apt  to  be  contaminated  with  volatile  products  resulting 
from  the  decomposition  of  ammonia  compounds  and  organic  matter.  The  pharmacopoeias 
avoid  this  possibility  by  discontinuing  the  distillation  when  15  per  cent,  of  the  water  is 
left  in  the  still. 

The  material  of  which  the  distillatory  apparatus  used  for  this  purpose  is  constructed 
is  of  considerable  importance,  but  more  particularly  in  relation  to  the  condenser.  Iron, 
copper,  and  lead  condensers  must  not  be  used,  since  the  water  corrodes  these  metals, 
traces  and  sometimes  larger  quantities  of  which  will  always  be  found  in  the  distillate. 
Where  a glass  condenser  is  available  it  may  be  regarded  as  the  most  desirable,  apparatus 
made  of  metals  (silver  and  platinum)  which  are  not  in  the  least  corroded  during  distilla- 
tion being  too  costly  for  general  use.  The  material  best  adapted  for  practical  purposes 
is  block-tin,  of  which  the  condenser  and  all  those  portions  of  the  apparatus  should  be 
made  from  which  the  vapors  are  made  to  descend.  A minute  quantity  of  tin  is  nearly 
always  dissolved,  but  separates  again  on  standing  for  a few  days  in  contact  with  the  air. 
The  occasional  appearance  of  confervae  in  distilled  water  depends  upon  its  direct  contact 
with  the  air,  and  may  be  prevented  by  keeping  it  in  vessels  arranged  in  such  a manner 
that  the  air  can  enter  only  after  having  passed  through  a layer  of  cotton,  by  which  the 
spores  are  retained. 

Properties  and  Tests. — Distilled  water  is  a colorless,  limpid  liquid,  without  odor 
or  taste,  and  of  a neutral  reaction.  On  evaporating  1 liter  of  distilled  water  no  fixed 
residue  should  remain.  The  transparency  or  color  of  distilled  water  should  not  be 
affected  by  hydrogen  sulphide  or  ammonium  sulphide  (absence  of  metals),  by  test-solu- 
tions of  barium  chloride  (sulphate),  silver  nitrate  (chloride),  ammonium  oxalate  (cal- 
cium), or  mercuric  chloride,  with  or  without  the  subsequent  addition  of  potassium  car- 
bonate (ammonia  and  ammonium  salts).  On  heating  100  Cc.  of  distilled  water  acidu- 
lated with  10  Cc.  of  diluted  sulphuric  acid  to  boiling,  and  adding  1 Cc.  of  a centi-normal 
solution  of  potassium  permanganate,  the  color  of  the  liquid  should  not  be  entirely 
destroyed  by  boiling  for  10  minutes,  nor  by  afterwards  setting  the  vessel  aside  well  cov- 
ered, for  10  hours  (absence  of  organic  or  other  oxidizable  matters).  Distilled  water 
should  not  be  affected  by  solution  of  lime  (absence  of  carbonic  acid). — U.  S.  On  con- 
tinued exposure  to  the  air  distilled  water  will  dissolve  carbonic  acid  gas,  and  then 
become  cloudy  with  clear  lime-water. 

AQUA  FCENICULI,  U.  S.,  Br B.  G.— Fennel  Water. 

Eau  de  Fenouil , Fr.  ; Eenchelwasser , G. ; Acqua  distillata  di  Jinocchio , F.  It. 

Preparation. — Oil  of  Fennel,  2 Cc. ; Precipitated  Calcium  Phosphate,  4 Gm. ; 
Distilled  Water,  a suflicient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Triturate  the  oil  with  the 
calcium  phosphate,  add  the  water  gradually  under  constant  trituration,  and  filter. — 

U.  S. 

(32  minims  of  oil  of  fennel  may  be  triturated  with  60  grains  of  calcium  phosphate, 
and  will  require  2 pints  of  distilled  water.) 

Take  of  bruised  fennel  1 pound  av.  ; water  sufficient ; distil  1 gallon  Imperial  measure 
or  10  pounds  av.  (2?r.),  30  pounds  av.  ( P . G.)  If  a good  fennel  is  employed  the  water 
last  mentioned  separates  a small  portion  of  oil  on  standing,  and  is  therefore  a saturated 
solution. 


AQUA  HA  MA  MEL  ID  IS.— A Q U A HYDROGENII  DIOXIDI. 


261 


Action  and  Uses. — Fennel-water  is  stimulant  and  carminative,  and,  like  its  asso- 
ciates, is  used  as  a vehicle  for  medicines  intended  to  correct  acidity  and  relieve  flatulence 
and  colic.  Dose , Gm.  4 (a  teaspoonful)  or  more,  according  to  the  age  of  the  patient  and 
the  degree  of  the  derangement. 

AQUA  HAMAMELIDIS,  AT.  F.—  Hamamelis  Water. 

Witchhazel  Water,  Witchhazel  Extract. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Hamamelis,  shoots  and  twigs,  10  pounds ; Water  21  gal- 
lons; Alcohol,  1£  pints.  Place  the  hamamelis  in  a still,  add  the  water  and  alcohol,  and 
allow  the  mixture  to  macerate  during  twenty-four  hours.  Distil  10  pints  by  applying 
direct  heat,  or,  preferably,  by  means  of  steam.  Note. — This  preparation  should  be  made 
only  from  the  fresh  young  twigs  of  hamamelis,  collected  for  this  purpose,  preferably, 
when  the  plant  is  in  flower,  in  the  late  autumn  of  the  year. 

Action  and  Uses. — See  Hamamelis. 

AQUA  HYDROGEN1I  DIOXIDI,  77.  & -Solution  of  Hydrogen 

Dioxide. 

Solution  of  Hydrogen  Peroxide,  E. ; Solute  de  peroxide  d' hydrogen,  F.  ; Wasserstoff  hy- 
per oxidlosung , G. ; Acgua  ossigenata,  F.  It. 

A slightly  acid  aqueous  solution  of  hydrogen  dioxide,  containing  when  freshly  pre- 
pared, about  3 per  cent.,  by  weight,  of  the  pure  dioxide,  corresponding  to  about  10 
volumes  of  available  oxygen. 

Formula  of  hydrogen  dioxide  H.202.  Molecular  weight  33.92. 

Origin. — Thenard  (1818)  discovered  hydrogen  dioxide,  which  has  also  been  called 
oxygenated  water  and  oxygen  hydrate,  by  acting  with  dilute  acids  upon  barium  peroxide. 
Meissner  (1863)  proved  its  presence  in  the  rain-water  collected  during  thunder-storms, 
and  this  observation  has  since  been  corroborated  by  Schonbein  (1869),  Struve,  and  others. 
Houzeau  (1868)  did  not  succeed  in  finding  it. 

Preparation. — Barium  Dioxide,  300  Gm.  (about  10 \ av.  ozs.)  ; Phosphoric  Acid, 
Diluted  Sulphuric  Acid,  Distilled  Water,  of  each  a sufficient  quantity.  Pour  500 
Cc.  (about  16  fl.  ozs.)  of  cold  distilled  water  into  a suitable  bottle,  add  to  it  the 
barium  dioxide  in  such  a way  that  it  shall  not  form  lumps,  and  shake  vigorously  so  that 
a uniform  mixture  may  result.  Provide  suitable  means  of  refrigeration,  so  that  the 
bottle  and  contents  may  be  kept  at  a temperature  below  10°  C.  (50°  F.),  and  shake  it 
thoroughly  every  few  minutes  during  half  an  hour.  Afterward,  continuing  the  refrigera- 
tion. shake  it  occasionally,  but  vigorously,  until  the  dioxide  has  become  fully  hydrated, 
which  may  be  recognized  from  the  fact  that  only  a small  portion  of  the  water  separates 
from  it  on  standing, -and  that  it  may  be  mixed  with  the  separated  water  without  great 
effort  by  shaking.  Having  introduced  150  Cc.  (about  5 fl.  ozs.)  of  phosphoric  acid  into  a 
bottle  having  the  capacity  of  about  2000  Cc.  (about  67  fl.  ozs.)  add  to  it  320  Cc.  (about 
10|  fl.  ozs.)  of  distilled  water,  cool  the  mixture  and  remove  50  Cc.  (about  If  fl.  ozs.)  as  a 
reserved  portion.  Now  add  the  well-mixed  magma  to  the  acid  liquid,  and  mix  them  inti- 
mately by  frequent  stirring  and  shaking,  cooling  the  bottle  if  necessary.  From  time  to 
time  test  the  reaction  of  the  liquid  and,  when  it  becomes  alkaline,  add  to  it,  cautiously,  a 
little  of  the  reserved  phosphoric  acid,  until  the  liquid  has  again  acquired  an  acid 
character.  Repeat  the  agitation  or  stirring  from  time  to  time,  and  also  the  cautious 
addition  of  phosphoric  acid,  until  the  liquid,  after  standing  for  some  time,  no  longer 
turns  alkaline,  without  containing  more  than  a slight  excess  of  the  acid.  If  necessary,  a 
further  quantity  of  phosphoric  acid  should  be  diluted  with  distilled  water,  in  the  propor- 
tion above  given,  and  a portion  of  this  liquid  used  for  acidification.  Having  finally 
shaken  the  bottle  again  very  thoroughly,  set  it  aside  until  the  precipitate  occupies  only 
about  one-third  of  the  volume  of  the  contents,  and  pour  the  supernatant  liquid  upon  a 
wetted,  double,  rapidly-acting,  white  filter,  of  a diameter  of  30  Cm.  Then  transfer  the 
semi-liquid  precipitate  to  the  filter,  rinse  the  bottle  with  100  Cc.  (about  3f  fl.  ozs.)  of 
distilled  water,  transfer  this  to  the  filter,  and  when  the  liquid  has  drained  off,  wash  the 
barium  phosphate  on  the  filter  with  distilled  water,  until  the  filtrate  measures  1000 
Cc.  (about  34  fldozs.).  Now  add  to  it,  first,  20  Cc.  and  afterward,  if  necessary,  further, 
smaller  quantities  of  diluted  sulphuric  acid,  until  a small  portion  of  the  liquid,  after 
filtration  (which  may  be  assisted  by  a little  starch)  is  no  longer  rendered  cloudy  by 
diluted  sulphuric  acid.  Mix  the  cloudy  liquid  with  about  10  Gm.  (150  grains)  of  starch 


262 


AQUA  HYDROGENII  DIOXIDI. 


by  agitation,  so  that  the  starch  may  be  thoroughly  distributed  throughout  the  liquid,  and 
then  filter  it  through  a well-wetted,  white  filter  of  a diameter  of  25  Cm.,  returning  the 
first  portions  until  it  runs  through  clear.  When  all  the  liquid  has  passed,  ascertain  the 
percentage  of  hydrogen  dioxide  contained  in  it  by  the  method  of  assay  given  below  and 
dilute  the  remaining  liquid  if  necessary,  so  that  it  will  contain  3 per  cent,  of  absolute 
hydrogen  dioxide.  Keep  the  product  in  loosely-stoppered  bottles,  in  a cool  place. 

Since  solution  of  hydrogen  dioxide  will  gradually  diminish  in  strength,  even  when 
carefully  kept,  it  should  either  be  freshly  made  when  wanted  or  kept  on  hand  only  in 
such  quantity  as  will  probably  be  consumed  within  a short  time.  Any  solution  which 
has  become  weaker  need  not,  for  this  reason,  be  thrown  away,  but  may  be  reserved  for 
an  occasion  when  a weaker  or  diluted  solution  is  prescribed  or  demanded.  Or  it  may  be 
employed,  when  making  a fresh  supply,  as  a diluent  of  the  stronger  solution. — U.  S. 

Properties. — Solution  of  hydrogen  dioxide  is  a colorless,  odorless  liquid,  having  at 
15°  C.  (59°  F.)  a specific  gravity  of  1.006  to  1.012.  It  has  a slightly  acidulous  taste, 
and  produces  a peculiar  sensation  and  soapy  froth  in  the  mouth.  Its  acid  reaction  is 
due  to  the  small  amount  of  acid  purposely  added  for  preservation.  It  deteriorates  by 
age,  exposure  to  heat,  and  protracted  agitation.  Exposed  to  the  air  or  cautiously  heated 
on  a water-bath  to  a temperature  not  above  60°  C.  (140°  F.),  it  loses  chiefly  water,  but 
if  rapidly  heated  it  is  apt  to  decompose  with  explosive  violence.  If  a few  Cc.  of  ether 
be  poured  on  top  of  a mixture  of  10  Cc.  of  distilled  water,  1 drop  of  potassium  chromate 
test-solution,  and  10  drops  of  diluted  sulphuric  acid,  a blue  color  will  appear  at  the  line 
of  contact  upon  addition  of  a few  drops  of  hydrogen  dioxide  solution.  After  shaking 
the  ethereal  layer  will  separate  with  a blue  color. 

Solutions  of  official  strength  may  be  concentrated  by  freezing  the  last  portions  of 
water  being  evaporated  in  vacuo  over  sulphuric  acid  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  20° 
C.  (68°  F.).  This  concentrated  liquid  is  colorless  and  of  a syrupy  consistency,  having 
the  spec.  grav.  1.452,  and  does  not  congeal  at  — 30°  C.  ( — 22°  F.).  It  volatilizes 
slowly  in  vacuo  and  without  decomposition  at  ordinary  temperatures.  When  exposed  to 
sunlight,  or  when  heated,  or  when  brought  into  contact  with  charcoal,  silver,  gold,  the 
platinum  metals,  the  oxides  of  manganese,  alkalies,  or  various  other  compounds,  the 
dioxide  is  decomposed,  often  with  explosive  violence,  and  in  presence  of  the  oxides  of 
the  metals  mentioned  these  are  reduced  to  the  metallic  state.  A number  of  other 
bodies  act  less  energetically  and  are  oxidized.  Litmus-  and  turmeric-paper  are  gradually 
bleached.  The  dioxide  is  odorless  and  has  a harsh  and  bitter  taste ; applied  externally 
it  colors  the  skin  white  and  causes  violent  itching. 

Tests. — When  evaporated  to  dryness  on  a water-bath,  50  Cc.  should  not  yield  more 
than  0.25  Gm.  of  residue.  The  presence  of  barium  is  detected  by  addition  of  dilute 
sulphuric  acid  to  the  solution,  no  turbidity  should  occur.  The  limit  of  free  acid  is 
ascertained  by  means  of  normal  potassa  solution,  0.5  Cc.  of  which,  if  added  to  50  Cc.  of 
hydrogen-dioxide  solution,  should  show  an  alkaline  reaction  ( U.  S .).  When  neutral- 

ized with  soda  solution  and  evaporated  to  dryness,  the  residue,  moistened  with  sulphuric 
acid,  should  have  no  corroding  action  on  glass  if  left  in  contact  with  the  same  for  a few 
hours,  (absence  of  hydrofluoric  acid).  The  value  of  a solution  of  hydrogen  dioxide  may 
be  ascertained  as  follows  : “Dilute  10  Cc.  of  the  solution  with  water  to  make  100  Cc. 

Transfer  17  Cc.  of  this  liquid  (containing  1.7  Cc.  of  the  solution)  to  a beaker,  add  5 
Cc.  of  diluted  sulphuric  acid  and  then,  from  a burette,  decinormal  potassium  perman- 
ganate solution,  until  the  liquid  just  retains  a faint  pink  tint  after  being  stirred. 
Each  Cc.  of  the  decinormal  potassium  permanganate  solution  corresponds  to  0.0017  Gm- 
of  absolute  hydrogen  dioxide.  To  express  the  strength  of  any  solution  of  hydrogen 
dioxide  approximately  in  volume  of  available  oxygen  (that  is  in  volumes  of  oxygen  given 
off  by  1 volume  of  the  solution  upon  decomposition),  multiply  the  number  of  Cc.  of 
decinormal  permanganate  solution  decolorized  by  1 Cc.  of  the  solution  by  0.56  (0.5594); 
or  those  decolorized  by  1.7  Cc.  of  the  solution,  by  0.33.  To  express  the  strength  in 
percentage  (by  weight)  of  absolute  hydrogen  dioxide,  multiply  the  number  of  Cc.  of 
decinormal  permanganate  solution  decolorized  by  1 Cc.  of  it,  by  0.17  ; or  divide  the 
number  of  Cc.  of  permanganate  solution  decolorized  by  1.7  Cc.  of  it,  by  10.” — U.  S. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  virtues  of  hydrogen  dioxide  appear  to  depend  chiefly 
upon  its  readiness  to  yield  oxygen  to  all  oxidizable  substances,  including  tissues  devital- 
ized by  disease.  At  the  same  time,  it  appears,  when  taken  internally,  to  stimulate  the 
nervous  system  and  increase  the  secretion  of  urine.  Upon  theoretical  grounds  it  was 
introduced  as  a cure  for  diabetes , but  it  signally  failed  after  a sufficient  trial  by  competent 
judges.  It  would  seem  to  have  had  a favorable  influence  on  some  forms  of  atonic 


AQUA  LA  UROCERASI. 


263 


dyspepsia.  It  was  also  supposed  to  act  as  a palliative  in  various  cases  of  dyspnoea  due  to 
an  impeded  circulation  of  blood  through  the  heart  and  lungs.  Dr.  B.  W.  Richardson 
found,  in  many  cases  of  epilepsy , benefit  from  a drachm  of  the  ten-volume  solution  given 
in  half  a tumbler  of  water,  the  dose  being  gradually  increased  to  two  or  three  drachms 
{Asclepiad,  Oct.  1885).  He  also  stated  that  he  never  saw  whooping  cough  cut  short  so 
quickly  by  any  other  mode  of  treatment  except  change  of  air  {Med.  Mews,  1.  320).  More 
recently  very  favorable  results  have  been  reported  from  its  use  in  asthma,  whooping  cough, 
pulmonary  phthisis,  angina  pectoris,  in  diabetes  (especially  when  associated  with  codeine), 
anaemia  and  chlorosis , in  the  chronic  forms  of  syphilis  as  a succedaneum  for  mercury  and 
potassium  iodide,  and  locally  in  the  treatment  of  ulcers  and  purulent  exudations  ( Lancet , 
March,  1891,  pp.  707—719  ; compare  Solis  Cohen,  Med.  News,  lxii.  596).  Greene  {Med. 
Record,  xxxvi.  66)  claims  that  it  is  efficient  in  acute  pneumonia  when  given  in  half  tea- 
spoonfuls, diluted,  every  hour.  In  various  cases  of  asthma  it  is  said  to  have  given  relief. 
It  has  been  used  in  an  ointment  (1  part  to  7 of  lard)  to  anoint  the  skin  of  scarlet- 
fever  patients,  with  the  alleged  results  of  diminishing  the  mortality  and  preventing  the 
spread  of  the  disease.  There  is  no  sufficient  ground  for  this  opinion.  Hydrogen  diox- 
ide may  be  given  in  tablespoonful  doses  of  a solution  of  1 part  of  the  peroxide  in  20  of 
water. 

In  1878,  Day  claimed  that  the  numerous  hydrocarbons  used  in  dressing  wounds,  etc. 
owed  their  utility  to  their  faculty  of  absorbing  oxygen  and  giving  it  up  to  the  tissues, 
and  hence  that  the  aqueous  solution  of  hydrogen  dioxide,  or  any  of  the  above  sub- 
stances capable  of  generating  it,  must  prove  valuable  as  a surgical  dressing  {Times  and 
Gaz.,  Aug.  1878,  p.  193).  Goolden  also,  and  others,  testified  to  the  powers  of  the  com- 
pound to  limit  ulceration  ( Practitioner , xxiv.  47).  And  in  1882,  Fean  and  Baldy  drew 
the  following  conclusions  from  their  clinical  experience : Water  containing  from  two  to 
six  times  its  volume  of  oxygen  appears  to  be  a fit  substitute  for  alcohol  and  carbolic  acid. 
It  can  be  used  as  a dressing  for  every  sort  of  wound  and  ulcer  by  injection  and  in  vapor ; 
in  some  cases,  partly  surgical,  it  may  be  given  internally.  It  greatly  hastens  the  cicatri- 
zation of  fresh  or  of  old  wounds,  even  when  covered  with  gangrene.  It  lessens  traumatic 
fever ; it  neither  offends  by  its  smell  nor  acts  poisonously,  as  carbolic  acid  does ; and  it 
occasions  no  pain.  It  seems  adapted  to  ulcers  of  every  description,  deep  abscesses,  ozsena, 
and  purulent  cystitis , purulent  ophthalmia , chancres,  gonorrhoea , and  leucorrhoea,  otorrhoea 
with  fetid  suppuration,  diphtheria  with  putrid  false  membranes,  fetid  bronchitis,  fetid 
breath  from  diseased  tonsils  {Bull,  de  Therap.,  ciii.  122;  Morton,  Med.  News,  lv.  716). 
Bleyer  recommends  the  spray  from  2 ounces  of  a 15-volume  solution  dissolved  in  14 
ounces  of  water  ; for  a gargle,  2 ounces  of  the  same  diluted  solution  ; for  other  local  uses, 
from  3 to  10  ounces  of  the  peroxide  to  15  or  16  ounces  of  water.  For  internal  use,  from 
one  to  three  teaspoonfuls  of  the  15-volume  solution  in  one  half-glass  of  water,  three  times 
daily,  after  meals.  For  diphtheria,  a teaspoonful  every  hour  or  two  hours  of  a mixture 
of  200  parts  of  a 10-volume  solution  with  3 parts  of  pure  glycerin.  The  spraying 
instrument  should  be  made  of  hard  rubber,  and  the  dioxide  should  be  kept  at  a temper- 
ature of  60°-65°  F.  This  spray  is  said  to  have  instantly  relieved  the  pain  and  inflam- 
mation of  a hornet’s  sting  {Med.  Record , xxxvii.  148). 

AQUA  LAUROCERASI,  JBv. — Cherry-laurel  Water. 

Eau  distillee  de  laurier -cerise , Fr. ; Kirschlorbeerwasser,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  fresh  leaves  of  Cherry  Laurel  1 pound  ; Water  pints 
(50  ounces).  Chop  the  leaves,  crush  them  in  a mortar,  introduce  them  with  the  water 
into  a retort,  and  distil  1 pint  of  liquid.  Shake  the  product,  filter  through  paper,  and 
adjust  the  strength  of  the  finished  product  cither  by  addition  of  hydrocyanic  acid  or  by 
diluting  the  filtrate  with  distilled  water,  so  that  810  grains  of  it,  tested  as  described 
under  Hydrocyanic  Acid,  shall  require  150  grain  measures  of  the  volumetric  solution  of 
silver  nitrate  to  be  added  before  a permanent  precipitate  begins  to  form,  which  corre- 
sponds to  0.1  per  cent,  of  real  hydrocyanic  acid. — Br. 

To  facilitate  distillation,  Pettenkofer  suggests  for  this  water  the  process  recommended 
by  him  for  bitter-almond  water.  (See  Aqua  Amygdala:  Amaraj.)  The  distillate  con- 
tains oil  of  bitter  almonds  and  hydrocyanic  acid,  and  is  similar  to  bitter-almond  water. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  preparation  has  no  virtues  which  it  does  not  owe  exclu- 
sively to  the  hydrocyanic  acid  it  contains  in  the  proportion  of  0.1  per  cent.  Like  all 
distilled  waters,  its  strength  is  very  uncertain,  and  it  is  altogether  less  eligible  than  a 
definite  solution  of  hydrocyanic  acid  or  of  oil  of  bitter  almonds  in  water,  not  only 


264 


AQUA  MENTHJE  PIPEBITM—AQUA  PIMENTJE. 


because  its  strength  is  variable,  but  because  the  inequality  of  its  effects  may  lead  to 
disastrous  results.  The  dose  is  stated  to  be  from  2-8  Gm.  (fzss-ii),  very  cautiously 
administered. 

AQUA  MENTHLE  PIPERITA,  IT.  S.,  Br.,  P.  G. — Peppermint-water. 

Eau  de  menthe  poivree,  Fr.  ; Pfefferminzwasser , G. ; Acqua  distillata  di  menta  piperita , 

F.  It. 

Preparation. — Oil  of  Peppermint  2 Cc. ; Precipitated  Calcium  Phosphate  4 Gm. ; 
Distilled  Water  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Triturate  the  oil  with  the  cal- 
cium phosphate,  add  the  water  gradually,  under  constant  trituration,  and  filter. — U.  S. 

(32  minims  of  oil  of  peppermint  may  be  triturated  with  60  grains  of  calcium  phos- 
phate, and  will  require  2 pints  of  distilled  water.) 

Take  of  Oil  of  Peppermint  1%  fluidrachms ; Water  1^  gallons;  distil  1 gallon  (10 
pounds). — Br. 

P.  G.  distils  10  parts  of  water  from  1 part  of  the  herb ; Fr.  Cod.  1 part  from  1 part 
of  the  fresh  herb. 

Action  and  Uses. — Peppermint-water  is  used  as  a vehicle  for  many  medicines 
which  are  unpleasant  to  the  taste  or  which  occasion  nausea  or  griping.  It  is  the  most 
common  domestic  remedy  for  flatulent  colic,  and  in  hot  water  is  frequently  resorted  to 
for  relief  from  the  pains  of  dysmenorrhoea.  Like  other  diffusible  and  aromatic  stimu- 
lants, it  palliates  headache, palpitation,  hiccup,  etc.  produced  by  laborious  digestion.  Dose, 
Gm.  16  (U;ss)  or  more. 

AQUA  MENT1LZE  VIRIDIS,  IT.  S.,  Br. — Spearmint-water. 

Eau  de  menthe  verle , Fr. ; Rbmisch-Muizwasser,  G.  ; Agua  de  yerba  buena , Sp. 

Preparation. — Oil  of  Spearmint  2 Cc.  ; Precipitated  Calcium  Phosphate  4 Gm. ; 
Distilled  Water  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Triturate  the  oil  with  the  cal- 
cium phosphate,  add  the  water  gradually  under  constant  trituration  and  filter. — IT.  S. 

(32  minims  of  oil  of  spearmint  may  be  triturated  with  60  grains  of  calcium  phosphate, 
and  will  require  2 pints  of  distilled  water.) 

Take  of  Oil  of  Spearmint  1£  fluidrachms;  Water  11  gallons.  Distil  1 gallon  (10 
pounds). — Br. 

On  the  continent  of  Europe  curled-mint  water  is  used  instead.  Aqua  menthse  crispse 
is  prepared  by  mixing  curled-mint  leaves  1 part  with  sufficient  water,  and  distilling  10 
parts. 

Action  and  Uses. — Spearmint-water  has  the  same  virtues  as  peppermint-water, 
but  is  much  milder  in  its  action.  It  is  particularly  appropriate  in  cases  of  infantile  colic, 
for  which  it  may  be  prescribed  with  a little  bicarbonate  of  sodium  or  magnesium  in  doses 
of  a teaspoonful.  The  average  dose  for  an  adult  is  Gm.  16  (fgss). 

AQUA  PICIS,  j P.  G.— Tar-water. 

Theerwasser , G. ; Acqua  di  catrame,  F.  It. ; Agua  de  alquibran,  Sp. 

Preparation. — 1 part  of  tar  is  mixed  with  3 parts  of  powdered  pumice-stone  which 
has  been  previously  washed  with  water  and  dried,  and  of  this  mixture  2 parts  are  added 
to  5 parts  of  water,  well  shaken  for  five  minutes  and  filtered. — P.  G.  Tar  1 part,  water 
46  parts. — F.  It. 

Tar-water  should  be  clear,  of  yellowish  or  brownish-yellow  color,  and  possess  the  odor 
and  taste  of  tar.  It  is  best  prepared  fresh  when  wanted. 

Action  and  Uses. — See  Pix  liquida. 

AQUA  PIMENTOS,  Br. — Pimento- Water. 

Eau  de  piment  de  la  Jamaique,  Fr. ; Nelkenpfeffer-Wasser , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Pimento,  bruised,  14  ounces;  Water  2 gallons.  Distil  1 
gallon  (10  pounds). — Br. 

On  standing  it  separates  a brownish  resin. 

Action  and  Uses. — Pimento-water  is  a stimulant  carminative.  Its  effects  are  less 
transient  than  those  of  fennel-  and  anise-water,  for  example,  and  more  like  such  as  are 
produced  by  an  infusion  of  cloves.  Dose,  Gm.  16-32  (fgss-^j). 


AQUA  ROSjE.—AQXJJE  MINER  ALES. 


265 


AQUA  ROSiE,  U.  S.9  Br.,  B.  G.— Rose-water. 

Aqua  Rosarum. — Eau  distilUe  de  rose,  Fr.  ; Rosenwasser,  G.  ; Acqua  distillata  di  rose, 
F.  It. ; Agua  rosada,  Sp. 

Preparation. — Stronger  Rose-water,  Distilled  Water,  of  each,  1 volume.  Mix  them 
immediately  before  use. — U.  S. 

Take  of  fresh  petals  of  the  hundred-leaved  rose  (or  an  equivalent  quantity  of  the 
petals  preserved  while  fresh  with  common  salt)  10  pounds ; water  5 gallons  (Imperial). 
Distil  1 gallon  (10  pounds). — Br. 

Add  4 drops  of  oil  of  rose  to  1000  Cc.  (about  34  fluidounces)  of  lukewarm  water,  agi- 
tate for  some  time  and  filter. — P.  G. 

Action  and  Uses. — Rose-water  has  no  strictly  medicinal  virtues.  It  is  an  agree- 
able excipient  for  collyria,  urethral  injections,  and  lotions. 

AQUA  ROSiE  FORTIOR,  U.  S. — Stronger  Rose-water. 

Triple  rose-water,  E.  ; Starkeres  Rosenwasser,  G. 

Water  saturated  with  volatile  oil  of  rose  petals,  obtained  as  a by-product  in  the  dis- 
tillation of  oil  of  rose. 

Strong  rose-water  should  be  kept  in  well-stoppered  bottles,  in  a dark  place. — U.  S. 

Like  orange-flower  water,  the  finest  rose-water  is  obtained  by  distillation  of  the  fresh 
petals ; it  should  be  clear  and  colorless,  not  mucilaginous,  and  free  from  metallic  impuri- 
ties, which  latter  may  be  detected  by  hydrogen  sulphide  and  ammonium  sulphide,  neither 
of  which  should  produce  turbidity  in  the  water. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — It  is  only  used  for  preparing  Aqua  Rosae. 

AQUA  SAMBUCI,  Br. — Elderflower- Water. 

Eau  distillee  de  sureau , Fr. ; Fliederblumen-  ( Ho l lunderbliithen-')  Wasser , G. 

Preparation.— Take  of  Fresh  Elderflowers,  separated  from  the  stalks,  10  pounds  (or 
an  equivalent  quantity  of  the  flowers  preserved  while  fresh  with  common  salt)  ; Water  5 
gallons.  Distil  1 gallon  (10  pounds). — Br. 

Elderflowers  1 part;  Water  sufficient.  Distil  10  parts. — P.  G.  1872. 

On  standing  it  is  inclined  to  separate  a mucilaginous  sediment,  which  must  be  removed 
by  filtration. 

Action  and  Uses. — Elderflower-water  is  used  in  England  as  a excipient  for  more 
active  medicines.  It  possesses  no  definite  virtues.  Dose , Gm.  32  (^j)  or  more. 

AQUA  SEDATIVA,  JST.  J^.-Sedative  Water. 

Eau  sedative  de  Raspail,  Lotio  ammoniacalis  camphor ata,  Fr.  Cod. 

Take  of  Ammonia  Water  2 fluidounces ; Spirit  of  Camphor  90  minims ; Sodium 
Chloride  1 troyounee ; Water  enough  to  make  16  fluidounces.  Dissolve  the  sodium 
chloride  in  about  8 fluidounces  of  water,  add  the  ammonia-water  and  spirit  of  camphor, 
and  finally  enough  water  to  make  16  fluidounces.  Shake  the  liquid  when  it  is  to  be 
dispensed. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  anodyne,  sedative,  and  stimulant  qualities  of  this  mixture 
have  been  found  useful  in  palliating  nervous  and  congestive  headaches  ; and  in  promoting 
the  resolution  of  contusions  and  sprains.  It  should  be  applied  to  the  painful  parts  on 
saturated  compresses,  with  or  without  friction. 

AQU^E  MINERALES.— Mineral  Waters- 

Eaux  miner  ales,  Eaux  medicinales  naturelles , Fr. ; Miner  alwiisser,  G. 

These  are  spring-waters  which  are  charged  with  certain  gases  or  salts  to  such  a degree 
that  they  are  unfit  for  ordinary  use,  and  exert  a peculiar  operation  on  the  economy. 

The  following  summary  gives  the  composition  of  a few  of  the  most  important  mineral 
waters,  which  may  be  divided  into  the  following  classes  : 

1.  Sulphuretted  waters  contain  sulphides  and  hydrogen  sulphide,  in  consequence 
of  which  they  possess  a more  or  less  fetid  odor : 

Bareges. — The  Source  de  Ventrie  contains  in  10,000  parts : 0.360  sodium  sulphide, 
0.219  sodium  chloride,  0.240  alkali  carbonates,  0.300  sodium  sulphate,  and  traces  of 
iodine  and  organic  matter  (Henry). 


*266 


AQUJE  MINER  ALES. 


Baden  (Austria),  Leopold squelle. — 10,0u0  Gm.  contain  0.065  sodium  carbonate,  0.800 
calcium  carbonate,  1.780  sodium  sulphate,  3.467  calcium  sulphate,  0.610  potassium  sul- 
phate, 0.700  magnesium  chloride,  0.030  silica,  0.013  magnesium  sulphate,  1.705  sodium 
chloride,  1340.19  Cc.  carbon  dioxide,  2836.09  nitrogen,  335.19  oxygen,  and  232.73 
hydrogen  sulphide  (Keller). 

Harrowgate.  Old  Sulphur  Well. — 10,000  parts  contain  0.26  calcium  sulphate,  1.75  cal- 
cium carbonate,  11.55  calcium  chloride,  7.86  magnesium  chloride,  9.14  potassium  chloride, 
122.38  sodium  chloride,  2.19  sodium  sulphide,  0.03  silica,  and  traces  of  sodium,  calcium, 
ammonium,  iron,  and  manganese  fluoride,  bromide,  iodide,  and  carbonate,  and  organic 
matter.  Also  the  following  gases  in  1 Imperial  gallon:  22  cubic  inches  carbon  dioxide, 
5.3  hydrogen  sulphide,  5.8  carburetted  hydrogen,  and  2.9  nitrogen  (A.  W.  Hofmann.) 

Massena,  St.  Regis. — 1 U.  S.  gallon  contains  79.692  grains  sodium  chloride,  0.508 
potassium  chloride,  29.927  magnesium  chloride,  0.673  magnesium  bromide,  4.852  cal- 
cium bicarbonate,  0.4888  ferrous  bicarbonate,  60.931  calcium  sulphate,  3.501  sodium 
sulphate,  1.320  sodium  phosphate,  4.205  sodium  hyposulphite,  1.405  sodium  sulphide, 
11.176  sodium  silicate,  and  organic  matter;  total,  198.678  grains,  and  5.307  cubic  inches 
of  hydrogen  sulphide  (F.  F.  Mayer). 

2.  Alkaline  waters. — Sodium  carbonate  predominates  and  free  carbonic  acid  is 
often  present  in  considerable  quantity  : 

Ems,  Krdnchen. — 10,000  parts  contain  the  following  carbonates : 13.651  sodium, 
1.559  calcium,  1.292  magnesium,  0.016  iron,  0.007  manganese.  0.001  barium  ; 9.224 
sodium  chloride,  0.004  aluminum  phosphate,  0.494  silica,  traces  of  sodium  iodide  and 
lithium  carbonate,  and  9991  Cc.  carbon  dioxide  (Fresenius). 

Vichy , Source  Lucas. — 10,000  parts  contain  the  following  bicarbonates  : 50.04  sodium, 

2.82  potassium,  2.75  magnesium,  0.05  strontium,  5.45  calcium,  and  0.04  iron ; 2.91 
sodium  sulphate,  0.70  sodium  phosphate,  0.02  sodium  arsenate,  5.18  sodium  chloride, 
0.50  silica,  and  17.51  carbon  dioxide;  total  solids,  70.46  (Bouquet). 

The  water  of  the  Grande  Grille  spring  has  nearly  the  same  composition  with  70.33 
solids,  but  contains  only  9.08  parts  of  carbon  dioxide.  Tichborne  found  in  16  ounces  of 
the  bottled  water  44.408  grains  of  solids. 

Gettysburg. — 4 Imperial  gallon  contains  46.05  grains  sodium  bicarbonate  with  lithium, 
76.05  magnesium  bicarbonate,  81.00  calcium  bicarbonate,  53.20  calcium  sulphate,  10.00 
silica,  with  traces  of  potassium  and  iron  chlorides  and  phosphates  ; total  266.30  grains 
(Mayer). 

3.  Saline  waters  contain  various  salts  of  alkalies  and  alkaline  earths,  occasionally 
bromides  and  iodides.  Dieulafait  (1881)  believes  that  the  saline  waters  of  Western 
Europe  are  mineralized  in  the  salt-bearing  strata  of  the  Trias  and  Tertiary  formation, 
and  that  the  mineralizing  compounds  were  formerly  contained  in  ordinar}7  seas,  and  have 
been  deposited  by  simple  evaporation. 

Bedford  Springs , Pa. — 1 pint  contains  calcium  sulphate  11.274  grains,  magnesium 
sulphate  3.974  grs.,  aluminum  and  iron  sulphates  1.280  grs.,  sodium  sulphate  3.092  grs., 
sodium  chloride  0.343gr.,  calcium  carbonate  2.120  grs.,  sulphuric  acid  (?)  0.128  gr., 
organic  matter  and  silica  trace  (J.  C.  Morris). 

Cheltenham  Royal  Old  Wells. — 10,000  parts  contain  34,202  sodium  chloride,  1.141 
magnesium  chloride,  13,541  sodium  sulphate,  0.970  magnesium  carbonate,  1.433  calcium 
carbonate,  0.436  magnesium  bromide,  0.069  magnesium  iodide,  0.381  silica,  1.473  crenic 
acid,  2.574  organic  matter,  and  92  Cc.  carbon  dioxide  (Abel  and  Bowney). 

Carlsbad  (Bohemia),  Sprudel. — 10,000  parts  contain  24.05  sodium  sulphate.  18.612 
sodium  bicarbonate,  10.223  sodium  chloride,  4.638  calcium  bicarbonate,  2.537  magne- 
sium bicarbonate, 1,  862  potassium  sulphate,  .141  lithium  chloride,  .715  silica,  .051  sodium 
fluoride,  .041  ferrous  bicarbonate,  .040  sodium  borate,  and  much  smaller  quantities 
of  sodium  phosphate,  strontium,  manganese,  and  alumina,  besides  carbon  dioxide;  total 
solids,  62.928  (Ludwig).  The  numerous  other  Carlsbad  springs  analyzed  by  Ludwig 
(1879)  have  a similar  composition,  the  total  solids  decreasing  to  60.798  parts  in  the 
water  of  the  Schlossbrunnen. 

Friedrich  shall  (Saxe-Meiningen)  Bitter-water. — 16  ounces  contain  61.102  sodium 
chloride,  46.510  sodium  sulphate,  39.533  magnesium  sulphate,  30.252  magnesium  chloride, 
3.992  magnesium  carbonate,  .876  magnesium  bromide,  1.523  potassium  sulphate,  10.341 
calcium  sulphate,  .113  calcium  carbonate;  total  salts,  194.242  grains;  carbon  dioxide 
5.322  cubic  inches  (Liebig).  The  bottled  water  contains  in  16  ounces  99.722  grains 
sodium  chloride,  71.535  sodium  sulphate,  64.138  magnesium  sulphate,  50.114  magnesium 
chloride,  2.102  magnesium  carbonate,  .275  magnesium  bromide,  2.518  potassium  sul- 


AQUjE  miner  ALES.  267 

phate,  17.130  calcium  sulphate,.  440  silica;  solids,  307.974  grains,  and  carbon  dioxide 
(Tichborne). 

Hunyadi  Janos. — 16  ounces  of  the  bottled  water  contain  free  carbonic  acid  and  337.- 
066  grains  of  solids,  consisting  of  157.957  sodium  sulphate,  156.350  magnesium  sul- 
phate, .716  potassium  sulphate,  10.531  sodium  chloride,  6.051  calcium  carbonate,  5.152 
sodium  carbonate,  .20  strontium  carbonate,  and  .029  iron  and  alumina  (Tichborne). 

Seidlitz. — 16  ounces  contain  104  grains  sulphate,  3 grains  carbonate,  and  3 grains 
magnesium  chloride,  8 grains  carbonate  and  8 grains  calcium  sulphate,  total,  126  grains 
(Naumann). 

4.  Acidulous  saline  waters  contain  various  salts  and  are  sparkling  from  the  large 
amount  of  carbonic  acid  contained  in  them  : 

Neuenahr,  Apollinaris. — 16  ounces  of  the  bottled  water  contain  free  carbonic  acid  and 
25.868  grains  of  salts,  consisting  of  10.621  sodium  bicarbonate,  5.023  sodium  chloride, 
2.402  sodium  sulphate,  .141  potassium  sulphate,  4.50  magnesium  carbonate,  2.880  calcium 
carbonate,  .10  ferric  oxide,  .080  alumina,  .121  silica,  and  traces  of  sodium  phosphate, 
lithium,  ammonia,  and  nitric  acid  (Tichborne). 

Grosskarben , Taunus. — 16  ounces  of  the  bottled  water  contain  32.403  grains  of  free 
carbonic  acid  and  31.262  grains  of  solids,  consisting  of  18.004  sodium  chloride,  1.890 
potassium  chloride,  9.590  calcium  carbonate,  1.232  magnesium  carbonate,  .140  sodium 
carbonate,  .406  calcium  sulphate,  and  traces  of  calcium  phosphate,  silica,  and  alumina 
(Taylor,  Tichborne). 

Pyrmont,  Hauptquelle. — 160  ounces  contain  the  following  sulphates  : 0.023  grain  barium, 
0.280  strontium,  60.897  calcium,  1.266  potassium,  3.220  sodium,  and  34.813  magnesium  ; 
the  following  chlorides:  12.202  sodium,  0.161  ammonium,  and  0.076  lithium  ; the  follow- 
ing bicarbonates:  86.832  calcium,  6.160  magnesium,  5.919  iron,  and  0.344  manganium  ; 
0.001  sodium  iodide,  0.007  sodium  bromide,  0.012  sodium  nitrate,  0.006  aluminium  phos- 
phate, 0.004  calcium  phosphate,  2.441  silica,  183.956  grains  carbon  dioxide  and  a trace 
of  hydrogen  sulphide  (Fresenius). 

Selters. — 16  ounces  contain  0.248  grain  sodium  sulphate,  16.285  sodium  chloride, 
5.855  sodium  carbonate,  1.595  magnesium  carbonate,  1.867  calcium  carbonate,  0.154 
ferrous  carbonate,  0.281  sodium  phosphate,  0.289  silica,  and  31  cubic  inches  carbon 
dioxide  (Bischof  ). 

Saratoga  Empire  Spring. — 1 U.  S.  gallon  contains  506.63  grains  sodium  chloride, 
4.292  potassium  chloride,  0.266  sodium  bromide,  0.006  sodium  iodide,  2.769  potassium 
sulphate,  0.023  sodium  phosphate,  1.458  silica,  0.418  alumina,  with  the  following  bicar- 
bonates: 42.953  magnesium,  109.656  calcium,  2.080  lithium,  9.022  sodium,  0.070  barium, 
0.793  iron,  and  trace  of  strontium  ; also  traces  of  calcium  fluoride,  borax  and  organic  mat- 
ters ; total,  680.436  grains,  and  344.67  cubic  inches  carbon  dioxide  (Chandler  and  Cairns). 

The  acidulous  saline  waters  of  the  numerous  other  springs  of  Saratoga  have  a similar 
composition ; in  the  following  table  they  are  arranged  according  to  the  abundance  of  car- 
bonic acid  gas,  in  addition  to  which  we  give,  in  grains,  the  total  solids  and  the  weight  of 
the  most  important  saline  constituents  contained  in  one  gallon  : 


Name. 

C02,  cub. 
inch. 

Total 

solids. 

NaCl. 

NaHC03.| 

Mg0(C02)2. 

1 

Ca0(C02)2.  j 

Fe0(C02)2. 

LiHC03. 

Champion 

465.458 

1195.583 

702.236 

17.624 

I 193.912 

227.070 

0.647 

6.247 

Geyser 

454.082 

991.546 

562.080 

71.232 

149.343 

168.392 

0.979 

9.004 

High  Rock 

409.458  ; 

628.039 

390.127 

34.888 

54.924 

131.739 

1.478 

Star 

407.650  ! 

617.397 

398.361 

2.662 

61.912 

124.459 

1.213 

1.586 

Congress 

392.289  | 

700.859 

400.440 

10.775 

121.757 

143.399 

0.340 

4.761 

Union  

384.969 

701.174 

453.299 

17.010 

1 109.685 

96.703 

0.269 

2.605 

Vichy 

383.071 

315.176 

128.629 

82.873 

41.503 

45.522 

0.052 

1.760 

Hathorn 

375.747 

888.403 

509.968 

4.288 

176.463 

180.646 

1.128 

11.447 

Washington 

363.770 

350.227 

182.733 

65.973 

84.096 

3.800 

Kissingen 

361.500 

644.627 

338.500 

67.617 

70. 170 

140.260 

1.557 

5.129 

Putnam 

348.880 

361.010 

214.000 

14.320 

51.600 

68.800 

7.000 

Pavilion 

’ 332.458 

687.275 

459.903 

3.764 

76.267 

120.169 

2.570 

9.486 

Seltzer 

324.080 

302.017 

234.291 

29.428 

40.339 

89.869 

1.703 

Crystal 

317.452 

537.155 

328.468 

10.064 

75.161 

101.881 

2.038 

4.326 

Hamilton 

316.000 

460.326 

297.300 

27.036 

35.200 

92.400 

5.390 

Excelsior 

250.000 

514.746 

370.642 

15.000 

32.333 

77.000 

3.215 

United  States 

245.734 

331.837 

141.872 

4.666 

72.888 

93.119 

0.714 

4.847 

Eureka 

239.000 

258.365 

166.811 

8.750 

29.340 

41.321 

3.000 

Saratoga,  A 

212.000 

656.911 

565.300 

6.752 

20.480 

56.852 

1.724 

268 


AQUAE  MINE  RALES. 


The  temperature  of  these  springs  is  between  45°  F.  (Washington)  and  52°  F.  (High 
Rock  and  Star)  ; the  water  of  the  Kissingen  springs  is  40°  F. 

Whitehall  (N.  Y.)  Adirondack  Springs. — 1 Imperial  gallon  contains  14.340  grains 
sodium  chloride,  11.134  calcium  sulphate,  18.543  calcium  carbonate,  16.618  magnesium 
carbonate,  5.040  ferrous  carbonate,  5.317  potassium  carbonate,  5.135  sodium  carbonate, 
0.023  lithium  carbonate,  traces  of  magnesium  carbonate  and  alumina,  7.42  insoluble 
residue,  and  67.3  cubic  inches  of  carbon  dioxide  (Collier). 

Kissingen , Rakoczy. — 16  ounces  contain  0.242  grain  ferrous  carbonate,  0.131  magne- 
sium carbonate,  8.148  calcium  carbonate,  0.043  calcium  phosphate,  0.099  silica,  2.990 
calcium  sulphate,  44.713  sodium  chloride,  4.509  magnesium  sulphate,  2.203  potassium 
chloride,  2.333  magnesium  chloride,  0.064  sodium  bromide,  0.071  sodium  nitrate,  0.153 
lithium  chloride,  0.007  ammonium  carbonate;  total,  65.706  grains,  and  41.77  cubic 
inches  of  carbon  dioxide  (Liebig). 

5.  Chalybeate  Waters. — This  name  is  applied  to  those  mineral  waters  which  con- 
tain iron  in  sufficient  quantity  to  impart  to  them  a ferruginous  taste.  The  iron  is  pres- 
ent either  as  sulphate  or  frequently  as  ferrous  carbonate,  held  in  solution  by  excess  of 
carbonic  acid,  hydrogen  sulphide  being  also  occasionally  present.  Iron  being  found  in 
several  of  the  waters  named  before  in  larger  quantities  than  mere  traces,  it  is  evident 
that  the  classification  must  be  somewhat  arbitrary. 

Homburg  Stahlbrunnen. — 16  ounces  contain  0.937  ferrous  carbonate,  7.534  calcium 
carbonate,  10.667  calcium  chloride,  5.330  magnesium  chloride,  79,864  sodium  chloride, 
0.176  potassium  sulphate,  0.146  calcium  sulphate,  0.315  silica ; total,  104.969  grains, 
and  46.90  cubic  inches  carbon  dioxide  (Liebig). 

Spa , Source  du  Pouhon. — 10,000  parts  contain  the  following  bicarbonates  : 1.266  sodium, 
0.105  potassium,  1.730  calcium,  1.674  magnesium,  and  0.714  iron  ; 0.203  sodium  sul- 
phate, 0.256  sodium  chloride,  0.629  silica,  and  21.409  carbon  dioxide  (Plateau). 

Pgrmont , Trinkquelle. — 16  ounces  contain  0.490  ferrous  carbonate,  1.126  magnesium 
chloride,  0.323  magnesium  carbonate,  0.048  manganese  carbonate,  5.988  calcium  carbo- 
nate, 0.014  aluminum  phosphate,  0.496  silica ; and  the  following  sulphates : 2.697 
magnesium,  7.221  calcium,  0.020  strontium,  0.009  lithium,  0.042  potassium,  and  2.145 
sodium  ; total,  20.619  grains,  and  1.68  volumes  of  carbon  dioxide  (Struve). 

Cheltenham  ( chalybeate ). — 1,000  parts  contain  0.066  ferrous  carbonate,  0.159  calcium 
carbonate,  0.735  calcium  chloride,  0.484  magnesium  chloride,  0.390  potassium  chloride, 
22.62  sodium  chloride,  0.020  silica,  0.040  organic  matter;  total  4.156.  1 gallon  contains 

also  1.95  cubic  inches  carbon  dioxide  and  5 cubic  inches  carburetted  hydrogen  (A.  W. 
Hofmann). 

Church  Hill  Alum-  Water. — 1 U.  S.  gallon  contains  24.991  grains  ferrous  sulphate, 
51. 270. ferric  sulphate  (neutral),  83.355  ferric  sulphate  (one-third  basic)  72.928  aluminum 
sulphate,  86.064  magnesium  sulphate,  88.836  calcium  sulphate,  0.643  ammonium  sulphate, 
2.444  potassium  sulphate,  1.943  sodium  sulphate,  4.627  sodium  chloride,  10.429  silica, 
and  a trace  of  phosphoric  acid  ; total,  427.530  grains  (J.  C.  Booth). 

6.  Thermal  Springs. — Their  temperature  is  above  that  of  the  locality  in  which  they 
are  situated,  and  they  serve  an  important  use  for  baths,  although  most  of  these  waters  are 
also  used  internally.  In  the  following  we  give  some  of  the  best  known,  arranged  according 
to  their  temperature  : 

Carlsbad , Sprudel. — Temperature  73.5°  C.  (172.4°  F.).  (See  above,  under  Saline 
Waters.)  The  temperature  of  eight  other  hot  springs  ranges  between  60.2°  and  43°  C. 
(140.4°  and  109.4°  F.),  and  the  average  amount  of  solids  is  61.966  in  10,000  parts. 

Wiesbaden , Kochbrunnen. — Temperature  68.8°  C.  (155.8°  F.).  10,000  parts  of  the 

water  contain  68.356  sodium  chloride,  1.458  potassium  chloride,  .002  lithium  chloride, 
,167  ammonium  chloride,  4.710  calcium  chloride,  2.039  magnesium  chloride,  .035  magne- 
sium bromide,  .902  calcium  sulphate,  .004  calcium  phosphate,  4.180  calcium  carbonate, 
.104  magnesium  carbonate,  .056  ferrous  carbonate,  .006  manganum  carbonate,  .001  calcium 
arsenate,  .604  silica  and  alumina,  and  .34  volumes  carbon  dioxide,  total  solids,  82.624(Frese- 
nius).  The  temperature  of  other  springs  range  from  66°  to  49.5°  C.  (150.8°  to  120.2°  F.) 

Baden-Baden. — The  temperature  of  nine  springs  ranges  between  68.63°  and  44.4°  C. 
(156°  and  112°  F.),  and  the  solid  constituents  of  10,000  parts  between  29.528  and 
27.0213,  of  which  between  22.244  and  18.892  parts  are  sodium  chloride. 

Hot  Springs , Arkansas. — The  fifty-seven  springs  range  in  temperature  between  65.5° 
and  33.9°  C.  (150°  and  93°  F.)  ; the  solid  constituents  amount  to  a little  over  a grain  in 
the  pint. 

Aix-la-  Chapelle  (Aachen). — Four  springs  range  in  temperature  between  55°  and  45.4° 


AQUjE  miner  ales. 


269 


C.  (131°  and  113.7°  F.),  and  the  solids  in  10,000  parts  between  44.4815  and  40.1446,  of 
which  60  per  cent,  is  sodium  chloride  and  20  per  cent,  sodium  bicarbonate. 

Bath , King's  Spring . — Temperature  46.2°  C.  (115°  F.).  10,000  parts  contain  20.597 

solids,  consisting  of  11.425  calcium  sulphate,  0.662  potassium  sulphate,  2.744  sodium 
sulphate,  1.259  calcium  carbonate,  0.047  magnesium  carbonate,  0.152  ferrous  carbonate, 
1.802  sodium  chloride,  2.081  magnesium  chloride,  0.425  silica,  with  traces  of  lithia,  man- 
ganese, and  iodine ; carbonic  acid  not  determined  (Merck  and  Galloway). 

Gastein , Wildbad. — Temperature  49°  to  25°  C.  (120.2°  to  77°  F.)  ; salts,  3.483  in 
10,000  parts. 

Ems. — Thirteen  springs  range  in  temperature  between  46.64°  and  27.9°  C.  (116°  and 
82.2°  F.).  10,000  parts  of  water  contain  31.74  to  38.194  solids,  mostly  carbonates  with 

chlorides. 

Idaho  Springs , Colorado. — Range  of  temperature  46.1°  to  29.5°  C.  (115°  to  85°  F.). 
A gallon  contains  107  grains  of  salts,  mostly  sulphates  with  carbonates. 

Vichy. — Eight  springs  range  in  temperature  between  43.5°  and  22°  C.  (108.5°  and 
71.6°  F.).  (See  above,  under  Alkaline  Waters.) 

Hot  Springs , Virginia. — Temperature  between  43.3°  and  25.5°  C.  (110°  and  78°  F.). 
A gallon  of  water  contains  18  to  33  grains  of  salts,  mostly  carbonates  with  chlorides  and 
sulphates. 

Artificial  mineral  waters  have  been  manufactured  and  used  for  many  years  both 
in  Europe  and  the  United  States  ; many  of  these  are  close  imitations  of  the  natural  waters. 
Works  giving  instructions  on  the  manufacture  of  such  waters  have  been  published  by 
(among  others)  Dr.  H.  Hager,  Dr.  Graeger,  and  recently  (1883)  by  Dr.  F.  Raspe.  We 
append  here  a few  formulas  which  have  been  recommended  as  yielding  tolerably  good 
substitutes  for  the  waters  of  the  springs  named : 

Baden  ( chalybeate ). — Sodium  chloride  28  grains,  magnesium  chloride  2 grains,  calcium 
chloride  13  grains,  sodium  sulphate  11.5  grains,  iron  and  potassium  tartrate  £ grains, 
water  21  fluidounces  ; dissolve  and  impregnate  with  carbon  dioxide  gas  (Soubeiran). 

Carlsbad. — Sodium  sulphate  54  grains,  magnesium  sulphate  5?  grains,  sodium  car- 
bonate 36f  grains,  sodium  chloride  7 grains,  calcium  chloride  7 grains,  potassium  and 
iron  tartrate  4 grain,  water  21  fluidounces  ; proceed  as  before  (Soubeiran). 

Seidlitz. — Magnesium  sulphate  74  drachms,  water  22  fluidounces  ; proceed  as  before  ; or 

Dissolve  74  drachms  magnesium  sulphate  and  1 drachm  of  sodium  bicarbonate  in  22 
fluidounces  of  water  ; add  1 drachm  of  crystallized  tartaric  acid,  and  cork  the  bottle  well 
( Fr . Cod). 

Sulphur-water. — (to  imitateiforeyes,  St.  Sauveur , etc.).  Crystallized  sodium  sulphide 
and  sodium  chloride  2 grains,  water  previously  boiled  to  deprive  it  of  air  22  fluidounces; 
dissolve  (Fr.  Cod). 

Vichy. — Sodium  carbonate  112  grains,  potassium  carbonate  24  grains,  magnesium  sul- 
phate 5 grains,  fused  calcium  chloride  44  grains,  sodium  chloride  1 4 grains,  sodium 
arsenate  grain,  powdered  iron  Jg-  grain,  water  21  fluidounces ; dissolve  and  impreg- 
nate with  carbon  dioxide  gas  (Lefort). 

Action  and  Uses. — The  use  of  spring-waters  more  or  less  inpregnated  with  sub- 
stances imbibed  by  them  in  the  bowels  of  the  earth  has  existed  in  all  ages.  A know- 
ledge of  their  virtues,  as  of  many  other  useful  medicines,  was  very  probably  learned  by 
observing  the  instinctive  use  of  them  by  the  lower  animals.  Tradition  runs  that  some 
of  the  most  famous  of  German  springs  owe  their  reputation  originally  to  their  use 
by  sick  animals,  and  that  others  were  eagerly  visited  by  the  kine  at  certain  seasons 
of  the  year.  It  is  certain  that  our  own  Saratoga,  which  is  now  annually  crowded  by 
gay  votaries  of  fashion  as  well  as  by  the  dejected  victims  of  a morbid  civilization,  was 
long  resorted  to  by  the  aboriginal  savages  for  the  6ure  of  their  infirmities.  In  ancient 
Greece  temples  were  in  many  places  erected  near  mineral  springs,  whose  waters  were 
used  under  the  direction  of  the  priests,  who  thus  became  the  earliest  physicians,  and  who 
taught  that  hygiene  and  medicine  must  go  hand  in  hand,  and  proved  that  faith  has  no 
small  share  in  the  cure  of  disease.  But  the  “ scientific  medicine  ” of  the  present  day 
treats  the  human  body  as  if  it  were  so  much  brute  matter  to  be  subjected  to  analytical 
and  synthetical  reagents  for  the  purpose  of  evolving  definite  results  : the  true  physician, 
on  the  other  hand,  never  neglects  the  vital  and  psychical  elements  of  man,  and  saga- 
ciously enlists  in  behalf  of  his  patients  all  the  power  of  external  nature  as  well  as  the 
quickening  influences  of  faith  and  hope.  Formerly,  mineral  waters  could  be  made  use  of 
by  those  persons  only  who  were  able  to  visit  the  springs,  but  now  they  are  carried  to 
great  distances,  and  even  across  the  ocean,  for  those  who  require  them  ; their  saline 


270 


AQUJE  MINER  ALES. 


residue,  after  evaporation  of  the  water,  has  equally  become  an  article  of  commerce ; and 
chemical  ingenuity  has  imitated  the  solid  constituents  of  the  most  important  springs, 
without,  however,  securing  the  effects  produced  by  the  natural  combinations. 

Attempts  to  explain  the  action  of  medicines  exclusively  by  scientific  methods  have  not 
resulted  satisfactorily.  Upon  this  subject  we  are  entirely  in  accord  with  Trousseau,  who 
addressed  his  clinical  class  in  these  words : “ Distrust  medical  theories  that  originate  in 
the  laboratory.  Although  Chemistry  may  be  the  handmaid  of  Medicine,  she  goes  beyond 
her  sphere  when  she  applies  the  conclusions  of  the  laboratory  to  the  treatment  of  the 
sick.  Chemistry  stands  no  nearer  to  Medicine  because  she  teaches  us  how  to  prepare  or 
to  analyze  medicines,  than  she  does  to  the  art  of  painting  because  she  prepares  the 

painter’s  colors Say  what  the  chemist  may,  mineral  waters  do  not  operate  alone 

by  means  of  their  predominant  mineral  constituent.  It  is  associated  with  many  others 
which  they  have  demonstrated,  and  probably  with  others  still  that  have  escaped  their 
research  ; and  nature  has  done  for  this  element  what  we  attempt  every  day  to  do  in 
pharmacy  when  we  seek  to  enhance  or  to  mitigate  the  power  of  a medicine  by  associating 
it  with  others.”  Then,  referring  to  the  well-known  fact  that  the  therapeutical  reputation 
and  efficacy  of  mineral  waters  does  not  depend  upon  the  amount  of  their  mineral  constit- 
uents, this  sagacious  teacher  in  substance  observed  : “ The  malarial  cachexia , for  instance, 
is  wonderfully  modified  by  springs  whose  mineral  elements  really  elude  discovery,  and  are 
far  less  than  those  which  impregnate  the  drinking-water  of  Paris ; and  certain  intract- 
able dyspeptic  disorders  are  cured  by  them  in  a manner  which  I neither  can  nor  seek  to 
explain.  Under  their  salutary  influence  the  appetite  revives,  the  constitution  becomes 
reorganized;  patients  affected  with  dropsy  or  visceral  engorgements  arrive  at  Plombieres 
or  Bigorre  in  a deplorable  condition,  and  after  a single  season  have  been  greatly  improved 
and  often  most  unexpectedly  cured.”  Even  anciently  it  was  understood  that  the  medi- 
cinal virtues  of  a spring  do  not  depend  altogether  upon  the  degree  of  its  mineralization, 
for  Pliny  refers  to  the  Paduan  waters  as  having  neither  taste  nor  smell.  It  would,  how- 
ever, be  unjust  to  these  natural  medicines  to  suppose  that  they  are  not,  on  the  whole, 
valuable  in  proportion  to  their  mineralization  ; indeed,  we  may  go  further,  and  measure 
and  define  their  value  by  the  proportion  of  their  predominant  ingredient,  be  it  saline, 
alkaline,  sulphurous,  or  chalybeate,  for  if  we  subtract  this  one  element  the  special  virtues 
of  the  water  vanish.  On  the  other  hand,  it  is  notorious  that  the  medicinal  use  of  such 
elements  isolated  from  their  natural  associations  no  longer  produce  the  effects  of  the 
original  mineral  waters.  In  these  facts  again  we  perceive  the  excellence  of  nature  and 
the  insufficiency  of  self-sufficient  art. 

There  are,  indeed,  two  classes  of  patients  who  require  the  use  of  very  different  mineral 
waters.  The  first  is  composed  of  that  large  body  of  invalids  in  whom  there  exists  no 
organic  change  of  structure,  but  whose  functions  are  merely  weakened  or  clogged  by  the 
strain  of  business,  the  exhaustion  of  pleasure,  sensual  excesses  in  eating  or  drinking,  or, 
in  this  country  especially,  by  the  manifold  errors  committed  in  the  preparation  and  con 
sumption  of  food  and  the  disregard  of  hygienic  rules  in  the  habits  of  living.  The 
second  consists  of  that  smaller  hut  still  numerous  class  of  persons  who,  besides  being 
more  or  less  injured  by  the  causes  of  ill-health  just  enumerated,  have  been  affected  with 
definite  diseases,  and  especially  rheumatism,  gout,  calculous  disorders,  cutaneous  erup- 
tions, scrofula,  syphilis,  diabetes,  paralysis,  uterine  disorders,  etc.  Of  these  two  classes, 
the  former  are  benefited  most  by  a visit  to  the  less  mineralized  springs,  while  the  latter 
require  a course  of  active  medicinal  treatment  such  as  the  stronger  mineral  waters  afford. 
In  both  classes  of  patients,  but  particularly  in  the  first,  the  action  of  the  water  is  only 
one  out  of  many  influences  that  combine  to  restore  the  health.  Toward  that  end  a total 
change  of  habits  is  one  of  the  most  influential  agencies  in  very  many  cases.  Escape 
from  the  anxieties  and  fatigues  of  business,  from  the  excitement  of  fashionable  life,  the 
mental  tension  of  political  and  professional  pursuits,  the  worrying  annoyances  of  domestic 
affairs,  endured  perhaps  in  a large  city  with  all  its  enervating  social  duties,  its  Babel-like 
sounds,  and  its  polluted  atmosphere, — escape  from  these  alone  often  suffices  to  restore 
the  disturbed  balance  of  health.  When  we  consider  how  much  more  probable  must  this 
result  become  when  fatigue,  anxiety,  contention,  wearisome  routine,  and  foul  air  are 
exchanged  for  repose  and  peace  in  the  midst  of  novel  scenes  and  new  associates,  and 
freedom  from  the  onerous  conventionalities  of  fashionable  life,  for  different  apartments, 
food,  and  occupation,  it  may  even  seem  doubtful  whether,  after  all,  some  other  new  resi- 
dence would  not  profit  the  invalid  as  much  as  the  frequented  springs.  But  there  are  two 
reasons  against  this  conclusion  : the  one  is,  that  with  many  persons  relief  would  be 
impossible  without  an  exercise  of  the  faith  which  gives  potency  to  waters  as  well  as  to 


AQUjE  min  era  les. 


271 


other  remedial  agents  ; and  the  other  is,  that  even  the  purest  of  these  waters,  systematic- 
ally used,  especially  in  conjunction  with  bathing  and  regular  exercise,  does  in  a greater 
or  less  degree  depurate  the  system  through  the  kidneys,  bowels,  and  skin,  and  by 
a gentle  but  sustained  action  gradually  remove  effete  products  of  tissue-change  from 
the  system  and  free  the  organs  from  the  burdens  that  oppressed  and  the  poisons  that 
tainted  them.  Judiciously  used  under  the  advice  of  a competent  physician,  these  almost 
neutral  waters  and  the  milder  saline  springs  are  capable  in  a few  weeks  of  changing  the 
languid,  indifferent,  pale,  and  feeble  invalid  into  the  lively  and  energetic  leader  of  the 
gay  crowd.  Such  rapid  transformations  are  frequently  witnessed,  especially  at  the  hot 
springs  of  Virginia  and  Arkansas,  and  certain  European  spas,  such  as  Wildbad,  Gastein, 
and  Pfeffers,  none  of  which  contain  any  considerable  proportion  of  mineral  ingredients. 
But  these  waters,  whether  drunk  warm  or  cold,  if  they  are  largely  used  act  as  organic 
purgatives,  and  increase  materially  the  total  amount  of  solids,  and  especially  of  urea, 
excreted  with  the  urine,  without  causing  the  debility  which  an  equal  discharge  from  the 
bowels  would  occasion. 

Waters  of  the  other  class,  rich  in  mineral  ingredients,  have  a more  direct  relation  to 
certain  special  forms  of  disease.  Alkaline  waters,  for  example,  are  particularly  adapted 
to  the  treatment  of  gout  and  rheumatism;  sulphurous  waters  to  that  of  the  same  diseases 
and  of  scaly  eruptions  of  the  skin  ; ferruginous  waters  to  the  cure  of  anaemic  disorders ; 
salines  to  that  of  chronic  dyspepsia , constipation , haemorrhoids , etc.  But  as  these  several 
waters  are  classed  only  according  to  their  predominant  ingredient,  and  each  one  contains 
several  others  of  real  even  if  of  secondary  importance,  it  is  evident,  as  before  intimated, 
that  neither  their  physiological  nor  their  curative  operation  can  be  regarded  as  the  effect 
of  only  one  of  their  constituents,  although  it  may  happen  to  be  the  principal  one.  More- 
over, it  cannot  be  assumed  that  the  same  water  or  class  of  waters  has  but  a single  mode 
of  action ; for,  although  it  is  probably  true  that  alkaline  waters  cure  both  gout  and 
rheumatism  in  virtue  of  their  alkalinity,  yet  sulphurous  waters  which  cure  rheumatism, 
but  do  not  cure  gout,  must  necessarily  produce  their  effect  in  a different  manner.  It  is 
evident,  therefore,  that  while  it  may  be  possible  to  determine  a certain  scientific  relation 
between  particular  mineral  waters  and  the  diseases  they  generally  relieve,  we  are  as  far 
from  comprehending  their  modus  operandi  as  we  are  from  understanding  the  actions  of 
mercury,  iodine,  opium,  quinine,  or  colchicum  in  the  several  conditions  which  they  palliate 
or  cure. 

The  temperature  at  which  mineral  waters  are  used  materially  influences  their  effects, 
whether  they  are  taken  internally  or  employed  as  baths.  Indeed,  as  above  stated,  some 
hot  springs  which  have  for  ages  maintained  their  fame  are  but  faintly  or  not  at  all  min- 
eralized ; but  there  is  hardly  an  instance  of  a cold  spring  destitute  of  active  medicinal 
properties  that  enjoys  much  credit  as  a medicine.  The  operation  of  warm  and  hot  water 
is  described  elsewhere  (v.  Aqua).  The  highest  reputation  belongs,  perhaps,  to  those 
mineral  waters  which  are  both  hot  and  strong,  and  which  modify  nutrition  in  every  part 
and  quicken  depuration  through  the  bowels,  the  kidneys,  and  the  skin.  The  energy  with 
which  they  act  is  shown  by  the  occurrence  of  phenomena  which  are  known  as  “crises”  when 
they  are  caused  by  the  internal  use  of  thermal  waters,  and  as  the  “ bath  fever  ” when  due 
to  their  external  application.  Both  have  in  common  a feverish  condition,  attended  by 
languor,  debility,  and  lightness  of  the  head — symptoms  which  appear  to  be  due  to  a rapid 
and  excessive  loss  of  tissue,  for  they  are  identical  with  the  effects  of  over-fatigue.  When 
this  state  is  induced  by  bathing  it  is  usually  accompanied  with  papular,  vesicular,  or  ery- 
thematous eruptions  upon  the  skin,  which  may  be  ascribed  in  part  to  the  copious  sweat- 
ing induced,  but  partly  also  to  the  irritating  action  of  the  caloric  and  of  the  mineral  con- 
stituents of  the  waters. 

It  may  be  proper  to  add  that  the  use  of  mineral  waters  by  persons  suffering  from 
organic  heart  disease,  obstruction  of  the  glandular  portion  of  the  kidneys  (Bright’s  dis- 
ease) ; a tendency  to  cerebral  disease,  the  advanced  stages  of  pulmonary  consumption,  etc., 
should  be  very  cautiously  advised  and  very  watchfully  conducted. 

To  describe  in  detail  the  application  of  mineral  waters  to  the  cure  of  diseases  is  here 
impossible  ; we  shall  only  endeavor  to  sketch  an  outline  of  the  subject,  which  is  deserving 
of  far  more  attention  than  it  generally  receives : 

1.  Sulphur  Springs  are  extremely  numerous  in  the  United  States  and  Canada, 
and  are  found  from  the  Eastern  to  the  Western  limits  of  the  continent.  The  most  fre- 
quented are  the  Red  and  White  Sulphur  Springs  of  Virginia,  Blue  Lick,  Ky.,  Sharon 
and  Richfield,  N.  Y.  In  Europe  they  also  abound.  Their  virtues  vary  greatly  accord- 
ing to  the  qualties  of  the  waters  themselves,  and  particularly  according  to  their 


272 


A Q UJE  MINER  ALES. 


purgative  action  and  their  internal  or  external  employment.  That  they  affect  the 
whole  system  is  proved  by  the  elimination  of  hydrogen  sulphide  during  their  use, 
so  that  silver  articles  worn  near  the  skin  are  blackened.  They  differ  from  other 
mineral  waters  in  having  a sedative  operation  when  applied  externally,  especially  when 
their  sulphurous  element  exceeds  their  saline  or  calcareous  in  energy.  They  are  employed 
in  a great  variety  of  disorders,  both  internally  and  externally.  The  more  purgative  varie- 
ties have  a great  vogue  in  almost  all  forms  of  chronic  dyspepsia , but  especially  in  those 
which  result  from  high  living  and  are  attended  with  congestion  of  the  liver,  constipation, 
and  jaundice.  In  such  cases  the  non-purgative  sulphur-waters  are  more  injurious  than 
useful,  causing  plethora  and  its  consequences.  Indeed,  the  dyspeptic  cases  held  to  be 
profited  by  these  waters  are  much  more  so  by  the  non-sulphurous  salines.  Sulphur 
waters,  on  the  other  hand,  are  more  useful  in  chronic  skin  diseases , including  eczema, 
psoriasis,  pityriasis,  lichen,  and  acne,  and  they  are  most  so  when  used  in  baths.  Their 
internal  use,  apart  from  special  indications,  is  superfluous.  Such  indications  may  be 
presented  by  scrofula , especially  of  the  glandular  sort,  in  which  a long-continued  but 
moderate  use  of  the  waters  is  most  profitable.  In  this  affection  the  baths  should  be  pro- 
longed as  much  as  possible.  When  gout  is  connected  with  the  above  conditions  these 
waters  are  less  serviceable  than  the  saline  and  alkaline.  Probably,  in  the  cure  of  chronic 
rheumatism  more  than  in  that  of  any  other  disease  sulphur-waters  stand  pre-eminent — in  the 
muscular  forms  first,  and  in  the  articular  less  conspicuously.  They  probably  act  as  diapho- 
retics and  diuretics,  and  hence  as  eliminants  when  taken  internally ; while  in  warm  baths, 
which  is  the  best  mode  of  using  them,  they  both  promote  elimination  and  by  their  local 
action  remove  the  pain,  swelling,  and  stiffness  of  the  joints.  The  hotels  at  sulphur 
springs  often  contain  museums  of  crutches,  wheel-chairs,  etc.  left  behind  by  patients  who 
arrived  as  cripples  and  departed  with  supple  limbs.  In  ancient  times  such  articles  would 
have  formed  ex-voto  offerings  in  the  temples.  As  syphilis  is  a specific  poison  in  the  sys- 
tem, it  might  be  supposed  that  the  searching  operation  of  sulphur-waters,  in  their 
several  modes  of  application,  would  tend  to  remove  it,  but  such  is  seldom  the  result ; and, 
indeed,  very  often  the  use  of  these  waters  revives  the  signs  of  the  disease  in  persons  who 
have  been  regarded  as  entirely  cured.  On  the  other  hand,  when  there  is  a cachectic  con- 
dition present,  induced  by  an  excessive  mercurial  treatment,  such  waters  may  greatly 
contribute  to  improve  the  health.  Lead-poisoning , it  is  well  known,  in  its  chronic  and 
constitutional  forms,  is  more  successfully  treated  by  sulphur-baths  than  by  any  other 
agent  except  potassium  iodide.  They  form  a most  important  adjuvant  to  the  latter 
medicine.  Their  utility  in  paralysis  will  depend  upon  its  nature,  as  whether  it  be  of 
central  origin  with  substantial  lesions  or  due  to  imperfect  nutrition,  or  else  wholly  pe- 
ripheral. In  the  first  they  can  only  be  adjuvants  ; in  the  other  cases  they  may  effect  a 
cure.  But  it  is  probable  that  they  act  in  no  other  way  than  by  promoting  the  general 
health  through  their  internal  use,  and  stimulating  the  paralyzed  muscles  externally  in 
the  same  way  as  friction,  electricity,  etc.  In  paralysis  following  cerebral  or  spinal  apo- 
plexy there  is  great  danger  in  using  thermal  sulphur-waters  to  excess.  Of  local  diseases 
for  which  the  waters  are  useful  may  be  mentioned — first,  chronic  pharyngitis , especially 
of  that  granular  form,  which  is  so  often  associated  with  dyspepsia,  and  was  formerly 
known  as  “ clergyman’s  sore  throat.”  Saline  sulphur- waters  internally  and  also  applied 
by  atomization  are  very  successful  in  relieving  it.  The  same  may  be.  said  of  chronic 
bronchitis,  especially  when  it  occurs  in  gouty  or  rheumatic  persons  and  with  dilatation  of 
the  bronchia,  and  in  a less  degree  of  chronic  laryngitis  of  the  simple  form.  Yet  the  tuber- 
cular and  the  syphilitic  forms  may  sometimes  be  improved  by  them.  Sulphur-waters 
have  been  much  used  in  diseases  of  the  uterine  system,  especially  in  sterility,  amenorrhcea, 
and  leucorrhoea  ; but  little  is  to  be  expected  from  them  in  such  affections  unless  they  are 
used  as  baths,  warm  or  cold  according  to  the  patient’s  condition.  The  feebler  sulphur- 
waters,  if  they  contain  iron,  may  be  drunk  with  advantage.  Enemas  of  sulphur-water 
have  been  used  for  ascarides  of  the  rectum.  Finally,  sulphur-waters  are  useful  in  various 
surgical  diseases,  but  chiefly  waters  of  the  thermal  variety,  which  operate  by  their  heat 
rather  than  by  the  sulphurous  compounds  they  contain.  It  may  be  admitted,  however, 
that  the  latter  elements  increase  their  stimulating  power. 

2.  Alkaline  Waters. — The  dominant  part  which  the  chemical  reaction  of  the  animal 
humors  plays  in  vital  processes  explains  the  extraordinary  potency  of  alkaline,  and  in 
some  degree  of  saline,  mineral  waters;  for  the  functions  of  digestion,  respiration,  etc. 
depend  in  a great  measure  upon  the  relative  degrees  of  acidity  or  alkalinity  of  the  animal 
fluids.  Alkaline  mineral  waters,  then,  may  be  used  so  as  to  neutralize  or  diminish  this 
acidity,  and  thereby  produce  a corresponding  change  in  the  physiological  action.  In 


AQUsE  MINER  ALES. 


point  of  fact,  these  waters  have  long  been  known  as  the  most  efficient  in  chronic  gout 
and  rheumatism  and  the  numerous  disorders  which  depend  on  them  ; and  the  form  of 
dyspepsia  most  successfully  treated  by  their  use  is  attended  with  excessive  acidity  of  the 
gastro-intestinal  secretions,  with  sour  or  rancid  eructations  and  regurgitations,  flatulent 
distension  of  the  abdomen,  tenderness  of  the  epigastrium,  etc. ; and  all  the  more  so  if  it 
is  connected  with  a gouty  diathesis.  The  waters  are  most  efficient  when  they  are  highly 
charged  with  carbonic  acid  gas.  If  there  is  gastric  irritability,  they  must  be  taken  in 
small  doses.  Skin  diseases  are  not  favofably  influenced  by  alkaline  waters  internally  or 
in  baths,  and  the  same  is  true  of  scrofula.  Among  all  the  known  alkaline  springs,  there 
is  only  one  which  can  be  regarded  as  pre-eminently  curative  in  yout,  and  that  is  at  Vichy 
in  France.  The  waters  are  most  usefully  as  well  as  conveniently  employed  internally, 
but  care  must  be  taken  not  to  drink  of  them  too  copiously,  lest  plethoric  phenomena 
arise,  nor  to  run  the  risk  of  impoverishing  the  blood  by  using  them  for  too  long  at  a 
time.  In  this  country  there  is  no  alkaline  spring,  properly  so  called  ; the  nearest  approach 
to  belonging  to  the  category  of  such  springs  is  made  by  the  St.  Louis  Spring,  Mich.,  but 
its  water  contains  only  7.684  grains  of  sodium  carbonate  to  the  pint,  while  the  Grande 
Grille  Spring  at  Vichy  contains  nearly  three  times  as  much.  Moreover,  the  former 
spring  holds  calcium  carbonate  and  sulphate  in  large  amount,  while  the  latter  contains  a 
very  small  proportion  of  the  former,  and  of  the  latter  none  at  all.  Gastralgia , occurring 
paroxysmally,  is  reputed  to  be  frequently  cured  by  these  waters  taken  hot  and  in  the 
intervals  between  the  paroxysms.  It  may  be  doubted  whether  the  heat  does  not  act 
curatively — as  much,  at  least,  as  the  mineral  constituents  of  the  water.  Certainly,  solu- 
tions of  sodium  bicarbonate  will  not  relieve  gastralgia  unless  great  acidity  of  the 
stomach  is  also  present.  In  chronic  rheumatism  (which  is  the  only  form  of  rheumatism 
in  which  the  medication  by  alkaline  mineral  waters  can  conveniently  be  tried),  whether 
muscular  or  articular,  alkaline  waters  are  very  highly  esteemed,  but  they  are  chiefly  used 
in  warm  baths.  No  doubt  can  exist  in  regard  to  the  efficacy  of  alkaline  waters  in  remov- 
ing the  symptoms  of  gall-stones.  Some  persons  suppose  that  these  concretions  are  dis- 
solved by  the  waters,  but  of  this  there  is  no  proof  whatever.  Others  believe  that  the 
bile  itself  is  rendered  more  watery  by  their  use.  It  is  certain  that  the  salts  of  Vichy 
and  of  Carlsbad  waters  even  in  this  country  relieve  the  symptoms  of  this  affection,  pro- 
vided they  are  administered  in  hot  water  and  so  as  to  represent  nearly  the  strength  of 
the  natural  springs.  In  the  treatment  of  acid  urinary  concretions  and  their  effects  alkaline 
waters  are  of  great  value.  They  operate  as  diuretics,  and  also  by  neutralizing  the  excess- 
ive acidity  of  the  urine.  In  the  former  way  they  often  cause  a copious  discharge  of 
acid  sand.  By  removing  the  chief  cause  of  irritation  in  the  urinary  passages  they  tend 
to  cure  the  catarrh  which  may  affect  their  mucous  membrane.  The  usefulness  of  alka- 
line waters  in  diabetes  does  not  admit  of  any  doubt,  however  difficult  it  may  be  to  explain 
their  mode  of  action.  It  has  been  remarked  that  they  are  more  efficacious  when  the 
patient  is  stout  than  when  he  is  thin.  In  favorable  examples  the  progress  of  the  disease 
may  be  stayed  by  them  for  years.  But  “ diabetes  mellitus  is  an  incurable  disease,”  even 
by  Carlsbad  water.  (See  Mayer,  Med.  Record , xvii.  120.) 

3.  Alkaline-saline  mineral  waters,  which  form  some  of  the  most  famous  European 
springs,  including  those  of  Carlsbad  (Leclerc,  Med.  Record , xxxv.  113;  Hofmeister, 
Centralbl.  f.  Therap.,  vii.  15),  are  represented  in  this  country  chiefly  by  the  Gettysburg 
Springs,  Pa.,  the  St.  Louis  Spring,  Mich.,  Capon  Springs,  Va.,  and  the  so-called  Lithia 
Springs  of  that  State  and  of  Arkansas  ; Sheldon  Springs,  Vt.,  and  several  in  Colorado 
and  California  (Denison,  Med.  News , lv.  284).  They  are  more  or  less  purgative  and 
diuretic,  and  are  used  with  great  advantage  in  the  same  diseases  for  which  alkaline  waters 
proper  are  employed,  but  especially  in  chronic  dyspepsia , disorder  of  the  liver , gall-stones , 
gout,  rheumatism , gravel,  and  morbid  mental  conditions  associated  with  digestive  derange- 
ments. They  are  very  useful  in  uterine  engorgements  and  irritability.  They  are 
palliatives  of  saccharine  diabetes  and  of  Bright's  disease,  especially  those  of  them  which 
contain  a considerable  proportion  of  iron  ; they  have  also  some  repute  in  the  treatment 
of  chronic  inflammation  of  the  pharynx  and  larynx.  According  to  the  purpose  for  which 
they  are  used,  the  dose  should  be  large  or  small — the  former  when  a purgative  opera- 
tion is  desired,  the  latter  when  an  alterative  action  is  sought.  In  the  laryngeal  and 
pharyngeal  affections  named  these  waters  are  very  useful  in  the  form  of  an  atomized 
spray. 

4.  Acidulous  saline  waters  are  employed  in  almost  the  same  diseases  as  the  last-men- 
tioned class.  Above  all  others,  they  are  to  be  preferred  to  cure  constipation  or  irregular- 
ity of  bowels  in  persons  of  sedentary  habits  who  eat  and  drink  largely  and  neglect  the 

18 


274 


ARALIA  SPINOSA. 


calls  of  nature,  or  whose  digestion  is  impaired  by  mental  causes.  Loss  of  relish  for 
food  ; a pasty  tongue  ; flatulent  bowels  ; haemorrhoidal  swelling  ; suspension  or  irregular- 
ity of  the  stools,  which  are  apt  to  be  alternately  diarrhoeal  and  scybalous  or  pale  and 
dark ; a high-colored  and  sedimentary  urine  ; a dusky  or  even  a jaundiced  complexion  ; 
hypochondria,  sleeplessness,  distressing  dreams, — these  are  the  most  notable  symptoms 
which  are  removed  by  natural  purgative  mineral  waters  better  than  by  any  other  cathar- 
tics. They  wash  out  the  loaded  cells  of  the  colon  without  impairing  the  appetite  or 
strength  or  confirming  the  constipated  habit,  as  many  other  purgatives  do.  It  is  this 
array  of  symptoms  that  is  apt  to  be  called  “ liver  complaint.”  Their  usefulness  is 
notably  increased  by  the  carbon  dioxide  gas  with  which  many  of  them  are  charged,  and 
which  serves  to  mask  the  taste  of  the  sulphates  of  sodium  and  magnesium  or  of  the 
sodium  chloride  which  they  contain,  and  to  make  them  more  acceptable  to  the  stomach. 
Their  mode  of  action  is  through  a gradual  elimination  of  the  accumulated  tissue-waste, 
and  the  increased  activity  which  is  thereby  communicated  to  the  whole  glandular  system. 
The  most  celebrated  of  American  springs  of  this  class  are  those  of  Saratoga.  They  are 
said  to  attract  more  than  eighty  thousand  persons  annually.  Although  they  are  not 
identical  in  composition,  they  differ  so  little  from  one  another  as  to  exert  essentially  the 
same  influence  on  the  system.  It  is  so  far  from  negative  or  indifferent  that  the  use  of 
such  waters  at  unseasonable  times  and  in  improper  quantities,  and  by  persons  who  do  not 
need  them  at  all,  has  been  the  cause  of  incalculable  mischief.  Every  one  who  requires 
them  is  also  in  need  of  judicious  advice  in  using  them.  This  is  seldom  to  be  obtained 
from  the  resident  physicians  or  from  those  who  are  casual  visitors.  On  the  continent  of 
Europe  every  mineral  spring  is  provided  with  one  or  several  physicians  who  are  entitled 
by  their  knowledge  and  skill,  as  well  as  by  their  official  station,  to  give  wholesome  advice 
regarding  the  use  of  the  waters.  Medical  advisers  of  like  competency  are  greatly  needed 
at  the  popular  watering-places  of  this  country. 

5.  Chalybeate  mineral  waters  are  the  best  representatives  of  ferruginous  medicines, 
because  they  not  only  enter  the  system  more  readily,  and  therefore  improve  the  blood 
more  rapidly,  than  artificial  preparations  of  iron,  but  because  the  hygienic  conditions 
attending  their  use  are  of  the  most  salutary  effect.  When  they  contain  sulphate  of  iron 
(as  in  the  Rockbridge  Alum  Springs  and  several  others  in  Virginia),  they  are  especially 
serviceable  in  profluvia,  as  chronic  diarrhoea , dysentery,  diabetes , bronchorrhsea , lev.cor- 
rhoea , etc. 


ARALIA  SPINOSA. — Aralia-Bark. 

Angelica  tree , Toothache  bush,  Prickly  ash,  Prickly  elder,  Hercules'  club,  E. ; Ecorce  d'ara- 
lie  epineuse,  Fr. ; Dornige  Aralienrinde , Gr. 

The  bark  of  Aralia  spinosa,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Araliaceae. 

Origin  and  Description. — This  shrub  grows  in  swampy  localities  from  Florida 
to  Mississippi,  and  northward  to  Southern  Pennsylvania  and  Indiana.  It  attains  the 
height  of  3.5  to  9 M.  (12-30  feet),  and  has  the  large  leaves  crowded  toward  the  summit, 
and  bi-  or  tri-pinnately  decomposed,  with  ovate  pointed,  serrated,  and  sessile  leaflets, 
which  are  glaucous  beneath.  All  parts  of  it  are  medicinal,  but  the  bark  is  usually 
employed.  It  is  in  thin  quills  or  curved  pieces,  the  inner  surface  of  which  is  nearly 
smooth  and  yellowish  ; the  outer  surface  gray,  scarcely  fissured,  smooth  or  with  slight 
longitudinal  ridges,  and  beset  with  slender  prickles  in  transverse  rows  or  marked  with 
some  short  transverse  ledges.  The  layer  beneath  the  thin  cork  is  green  or  brownish- 
green  ; the  inner  bark  whitish,  composed  of  concentric  layers,  and  breaks  with  a rather 
tough  but  nearly  smooth  fracture.  The  bark  has  a slight  aromatic  odor  and  a bitterish, 
pungent,  and  acrid  taste. 

Constituents. — The  acrid  taste  of  aralia-bark  is  due  to  a resinous  compound  which 
is  soluble  in  alcohol,  but  insoluble  in  ether.  A saponin-like  glucoside,  araliin,  was  pre- 
pared by  Holden  (1880),  and  obtained  pure  by  Lilly  (1882)  by  exhausting  the  bark  with 
boiling  alcohol,  from  which  it  separates  on  cooling ; it  is  soluble  in  water  and  diluted 
alcohol,  insoluble  in  ether  and  chloroform,  precipitated  by  basic  lead  acetate,  and  on  boil- 
ing with  dilute  acids  yields  glucose  and  tasteless  white  araliretin , which  is  insoluble  in 
water.  The  bitter  principle  was  obtained  as  an  extract-like  mass,  soluble  in  water,  alco- 
hol, and  ether.  An  astringent  principle  colors  ferric  salts  green  and  precipitates  lead 
acetate,  but  not  gelatin.  The  alcoholic  extract,  on  being  treated  with  water,  yielded  the 
bitter  compound  and  crystals  possessing  a slight  astringency.  A little  volatile  oil,  glu- 


ARALIA  SPIXOSA. 


275 


cose,  starch,  pectin,  albuminoids,  chlorophyll,  fixed  oil,  and  tasteless  resin  have  also  been 
found. 

Allied  Drugs.— Aralia  nudicaulis,  Limit.— False  or  wild  sarsaparilla,  Small  spikenard,  Wild 
liquorice  E.  : Aralie  it  tige  nue,  Petit  nard,  Fr.;  Nackte  Aralienwurzel,  G.— It  is  a perennial 
plant  indigenous  to  Canada  and  the  United  States,  where  it  grows  in  rich  and  rocky  woodlands 
as  far  south  as  Carolina  and  Tennessee,  and  west  to  the  Rocky  Mountains.  The  rhizome  sends 
up  a single  petiole  about  30  Cm.  (12  inches)  long,  and  three-parted  at  the  summit,  each  division 
bearing  five  ovate  or  oval,  serrate,  and  subsessile  leaflets.  The  scape  is  divided  into  three  or  five 
peduncles,  each  bearing  a globose  umbel  of  many  greenish  flowers.  The  rhizome,  which  is  the 
part  employed,  is  several  feet  long,  horizontal,  with  some  slender  branches,  and  sparingly  beset 
with  a few  radicles.  The  internodes  are  indistinct  and  the  undeveloped  buds  alternate.  The 
drv  rhizome  is  about  0 Mm.  (I  inch)  in  diameter;  the  few  scape-scars  are  shallow  cup-shaped, 
and  approximate  at  the  upper  annulated  end  of  the  branches ; the  bark  is  longitudinally 
wrinkled,  of  a somewhat  glossy  pale  brownish-gray  color  externally,  the  corky  layer  being 
easilv  removed  from  the  white  inner  bark,  which  does  not  firmly  adhere  to  the  cylindrical  wood. 
The  latter  is  about  3 Mm.  (£  inch)  in  diameter,  of  a yellowish  color,  and  encloses  a spongy  white 
amylaceous  pith.  The  rhizome  breaks  with  a short  fracture,  is  somewhat  aromatic,  has  a mawk- 
ish taste,  and  contains  a little  volatile  oil,  resin,  sugar,  pectin,  and  starch. 

Aralia  racemosa.  Limit. — American  spikenard,  Spignet,  Pettymorrel,  E. ; Nard  americain, 
Fr. : Amerikanische  Narde,  G.— This  plant  grows  in  similar  localities  as  the  preceding,  but  is 
found  southward  to  Georgia.  It  has  an  herbaceous  stem  about  1 M.  (40  inches)  high,  and  ter- 
nately  and  quinately  divided  leaves  with  ovate  or  heart-ovate  doubly  serrate  leaflets ; the  flowers 
are  in  small  umbels  arranged  in  branching  racemes.  The  rhizome  with  the  roots  was,  like  the 
preceding  drug,  formerly  known  as  Nardus  americanus.  The  rhizome  is  oblique,  10  to  15  Cm. 
(4-6  inches)  long,  and  half  as  wide ; the  nodes  are  approximate,  and  the  stem-scars  prominent, 
about  25  to  38  Mm.  (1-H  inches)  in  diameter,  the  older  ones  deeply  concave.  The  roots  are 
numerous,  from  50  to  75  Cm.  (20-30  inches)  long,  about  25  Mm.  (1  inch)  thick  near  the  rhizome, 
and  little  branched  below.  It  has  a stronger  aromatic  odor  and  taste  than  the  preceding,  and 
has  similar  constituents. 

The  California  spikenard,  Aralia  californica,  Watson,  resembles  the  preceding,  but  the  plant 
and  the  root  are  much  larger. 

Aralia  edulis,  Siebold,  is  indigenous  to  -Japan  and  cultivated  there.  In  appearance  and  size 
the  rhizome  resembles  Solomon's  seal,  but  the  circular  stem-scars  are  somewhat  spirally  arranged, 
about  half  an  inch  apart,  and  the  wood  is  in  radiating  bundles. 

Aralia  papyrifera,  Hooker,  indigenous  to  Formosa,  contains  a thick  white  pith,  which,  cut 
into  thin  layers,  constitutes  the  so-called  Chinese  rice-paper. 

Aralia  (Panax,  Linnt ) quinquefolia,  Decaisne  et  Planchon ; Ginseng,  E.,  Fr.,  G. — This  per- 
ennial herb  is  indigenous  to  cool  woodlands  from  New  England  to  Minnesota  and  south  to  the 
mountains  of  Georgia.  The  stem  bears  at  the  summit  three  large  palmately  five-foliate  leaves, 
with  long-stalked,  obovate-oblong,  pointed,  doubly  serrate  leaflets.  The  greenish-white  flowers 
are  in  a terminal  subglobular  umbel,  and  produce  globular  scarlet-red  two-celled  and  two-seeded 
berries.  The  root  is  fusiform,  5-10  Cm.  (2-4  inches)  long,  with  a rounded  head,  closely  annu- 
late, and  with  few  wrinkles  above,  dividing  below  into  two,  or  occasionally  three,  branches  of 
even  size,  and  when  dry  longitudinally  wrinkled.  It  is  of  a light  brownish-yellow  color,  inter- 
nally white,  breaks  with  a short  and  mealy  fracture,  and  has  a faint  sweetish  odor  and  a sweet 
slightly  aromatic  taste.  The  transverse  section  shows  a thick  bark,  with  numerous  scattered 
brown-red  resin-cells,  and  in  older  roots  is  radially  striate  from  the  bast-wedges ; it  is  separated 
by  a brown  cambium-line  from  the  central  portion,  which  consists  of  linear  wedge-shaped  yel- 
lowish wood-bundles  and  broad  medullary  rays.  Besides  starch,  gum,  albumen,  and  resin,  S.  S. 
Garrigues  (1854)  isolated  a sweet  principle,  paiiaquilon,  C12II2509,  by  adding  to  the  syrupy  infu- 
sion a concentrated  solution  of  sodium  sulphate  and  dissolving  the  precipitate  in  alcohol.  It  is 
yellow,  amorphous,  sweet,  insoluble  in  ether,  and  precipitated  by  tannin.  Concentrated  sul- 
phuric acid  dissolves  it  with  a purple-red  color,  converting  it  at  the  same  time  into  panacon, 
CnIIiA.  which  is  white,  tasteless,  and  insoluble  in  water  and  ether,  but  soluble  in  alcohol. 

Aralia  (Pan'ax,  Nees)  Ginseng,  A.  Meyer , is  indigenous  to  Eastern  Asia,  and  much  culti- 
vated. It  furnishes  the  Chinese  ginseng,  which  is  larger  than  the  preceding,  but  otherwise 
resembles  it;  it  is  often  scalded  while  fresh,  and  then  has  a yellowish  translucent  appearance 
after  drying. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  name  of  “ false  sarsaparilla  ” applied  to  Aralia  nudicaulis 
denotes  the  qualities  which  have  been  attributed  to  it — viz.  of  beipg  stimulant,  dia- 
phoretic, and  alterative.  But  the  proofs  of  its  virtues  are  unsatisfactory.  It  is  used  in 
decoction  and  infusion,  both  internally  and  externally. 

Aralia  spinosa  is  thought  to  be  more  stimulating  than  A.  nudicaulis,  but  its  uses  arc 
nearly  the  same.  In  South  Carolina  it  was  reputed  to  be  a valuable  remedy  for  chronic 
rheumatism  and  diseases  of  the  skin,  and  it  is  said  to  be  implicitly  relied  upon  by  the 
negroes  as  an  antidote  to  the  rattlesnake' s bite.  The  bark  is  used  for  this  purpose  both 
internally  and  externally.  A saturated  tincture  is  said  to  have  been  given  in  the  dose 


276 


ARECA  .—ARGEMONE. 


of  16  Gm.  (f^ss)  three  times  a day,  and  a decoction  was  used  prepared  with  32  Gm.  (gj) 
of  the  bark  and  a quart  of  water. 

It  is  unsettled  whether  or  not  the  American  and  Chinese  species  of  ginseng  are  iden- 
tical. It  is  at  least  certain  that  while  the  former  is  only  agreeable  in  taste,  and  perhaps 
useful  as  a mild  stomachic,  the  latter  enjoys  in  its  native  country  the  reputation  of  a 
panacea,  and  especially  of  being  aphrodisiac.  The  affections  for  whose  cure  it  is  most 
esteemed  are  such  as  are  usually  treated  by  aromatic  stimulants,  including  dyspepsia , 
vomiting , and  nervous  disorder.  It  is  used  as  a masticatory,  and  also  in  infusion. 

ARECA,  JBr,  Add . — Areca-Nut. 

Semen  Arecse. — Betel-nut , E.  ; Noix  d'arec , Fr. ; Arekanuss,  Betelnuss,  G. 

The  seed  of  Areca  Catechu,  Linne.  the  betel-nut  tree.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med. 
Plants , 276. 

Nat.  Ord. — Palmse. 

Origin. — This  elegant  palm,  which  attains  a height  of  about  50  feet  (15  M.),  is 
indigenous  to  the  East  Indies  and  the  East  Indian  Islands,  and  is  extensively  cultivated 
there  and  in  the  Philippine  Islands.  The  orange-colored  fruit  is  of  about  the  size  and 
shape  of  a hen’s  egg,  and  contains  under  a fibrous  pericarp  a single  seed. 

Description. — The  seed,  which  is  the  so-called  areca-  or  betel-nut,  is  about  an  inch 
(25  Mm.)  in  length,  roundish-conical  in  shape,  and  somewhat  depressed  at  the  base.  It 
is  of  a brown  color  externally,  with  numerous  reddish  veins,  originating  at  the  hilum 
and  forming  a network  which  penetrates  into  the  white  albumen,  and  gives  to  the  latter 
internally  a marbled  appearance ; the  small  embryo  is  situated  near  the  base  of  the  seed. 
Areca-nuts  are  heavy,  very  hard,  and  have,  when  recently  broken,  a feeble  somewhat 
cheese-like  odor  and  an  astringent  and  slightly  acrid  taste. 

Constituents. — Areca-nuts  contain  about  14  per  cent,  of  fixed  oil,  which  is  solid 
and  crystalline  at  the  ordinary  temperature,  and  about  the  same  amount  of  a red  tannin 
which  is  insoluble  in  ether,  slightly  soluble  in  water,  and  resembles  catechu-tannic  acid 
in  producing  a green  and  afterward  a brown  color  with  ferric  salts.  According  to  E. 
Jahns  (1889),  areca-nuts  contain  three  alkaloids : arecoline  ( arekane , Bombalon,  1885), 
0.07-0.1  per  cent.  ; arecaine , 0.1  per  cent. ; and  the  third  only  in  small  quantity.  Are- 
coline , C8II13N02,  is  a strongly  alkaline  colorless  oily  liquid,  miscible  with  water,  alcohol, 
ether,  and  chloroform.  It  boils  at  or  near  22°  C.  Its  salts  are  mostly  crystallizable, 
easily  soluble,  and  some  deliquescent.  Arecaine , C7HnN02.  H20,  forms  colorless  crys- 
tals which  are  permanent  in  air,  freely  soluble  in  water  and  dilute  alcohol,  and  nearly 
insoluble  in  absolute  alcohol ; ether,  chloroform,  and  benzine  do  not  dissolve  it.  At 
100°  C.  (212°  F.)  it  loses  its  water  of  crystallization,  and  melts  with  frothing  at  213° 
C.  (415.5°  F.).  The  salts  are  crystalline,  possess  an  acid  reaction,  are  freely  soluble 
in  water,  and  less  so  in  alcohol.  Catechin  is  not  present.  The  nuts  yield  2.26  per 
cent,  of  ashes  containing  ferric  oxide  and  magnesium  phosphate  (Fliickiger  and  Han- 
bury).  The  aqueous  extract  of  these  seeds  yields  a kind  of  catechu. 

Action  and  Uses. — Areca  is  astringent,  and  is  chiefly  used  for  the  expulsion  of  tape- 
worms. From  Gm.  8-12  (sij-^iij),  powdered  and  mixed  with  syrup,  is  stated  to  be  the 
proper  dose.  Before  being  used  to  destroy  these  parasites  in  man  it  was  largely 
employed  for  a similar  purpose  in  dogs.  Bombelon  procured  from  it  an  alkaloid  which 
increased  the  salivary  secretion,  slowed  the  pulse,  and  had  a purgative  action  {Bond. 
Med.  Record , Apr.  15,  1886).  Another  alkaloid,  arecoline,  was  found  to  reduce  both 
respiration  and  pulse,  proving  fatal  through  arrest  of  the  former  ( Lancet , Mar.  1889,  p. 
496). 

ARGEMONE.— Prickly  Poppy. 

Argemone , F. ; Stachelmohn , G. 

Argemone  mexieana,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Papaveraceae. 

Description. — This  annual  is  indigenous  to  Mexico,  Colorado,  and  the  West  Indies, 
but  has  been  introduced  and  naturalized  in  most  tropical  and  subtropical  countries.  It 
is  about  2 feet  (60  Cm.)  high,  has  alternate  sessile,  sinuate-lobed  leaves  with  prickly  teeth 
and  white  spots,  and  yellow  or  white  flowers,  about  1 } inches  (38  Mm.)  in  diameter,  with 
6 petals  and  many  stamens.  The  ovate  prickly  capsule  is  about  an  inch  (25  Mm.)  thick, 
crowned  with  the  nearly  sessile  radiate  stigmas,  and  contains  numerous  blackish  finely- 


ARGENT  I CYANIDE  M. 


277 


pitted  seeds.  The  plant  has  a bitter  and  acrid  taste,  and  when  wounded  exudes  a yellow- 
ish milky  juice. 

Constituents. — Charbonnier  (1868)  claims  to  have  found  a small  proportion  of 
morphine  in  the  leaves  and  capsules ; like  several  allied  plants,  it  probably  contains  san- 
guinarine.  (See  Chelidonium.)  The  seeds  yielded  him  36.2  per  cent,  (by  pressure  18  per 
cent.,  Lepine,  1861)  of  a drying  fixed  oil  of  a light-yellow  color  and  bland  taste.  O. 
Frolich  (1871)  obtained  from  the  oil  a pretty  hard  soda-soap,  and  found  in  the  soap- 
liquor  butyric,  valerianic,  acetic,  and  a little  benzoic  acid.  According  to  Fliickiger 
(1871),  the  oil  has  the  spec.  grav.  .919  at  16.5°  C.  (61.8°  F.),  remains  clear  at  — 6°  C. 
(21.2°  F.),  dries  slowly  and  incompletely,  is  not  soluble  in  6 volumes  of  90  per  cent, 
alcohol,  as  stated  by  Charbonnier,  and  has  a mild  purgative  effect  in  doses  of  4 or  5 
grains. 

Action  and  Uses.— The  principal  quality  of  this  plant  appears  to  be  its  acrimony, 
in  which,  as  well  as  in  the  physical  properties  of  its  inspissated  juice,  it  resembles  gam- 
boge. In  Mexico  and  in  Java  its  fresh  juice  is  applied  to  irarts  and  indolent  ulcers  and 
in  psor  ophthalmia  and  opacities  of  the  cornea.  The  fresh  leaves  are  also  bruised  and 
used  as  a dressing  for  ulcers.  The  juice  is  employed  as  a hydragogue  cathartic  in 
dropsy.  Charbonnier  states  that  the  fatty  oil  of  the  seeds  is  used  in  the  West 
Indies  and  in  Mexico  to  relieve  headache,  and  that  twenty  drops  of  it  occasion  vomiting 
and  watery  stools.  Some  narcotic  virtue  has  been  ascribed  to  the  seeds,  which  are  said 
to  be  used  for  smoking  when  mixed  with  tobacco.  But  while  one  authority  describes 
them  as  suitable,  like  opium,  for  checking  diarrhoea,  another  compares  them  to  ipecac- 
uanha, a third  holds  them  to  be  purgative,  and  a fourth  as  purgative  and  anodyne  also. 
The  oil,  derived  by  expression  from  the  seeds,  is  reported  to  purge  in  the  dose  of  dm.  2 
(gtt.  xxx).  An  infusion  of  the  herb  is  stated  to  be  used  in  Mexico  as  a sudorific. 

ARGENTI  CYANIDUM,  U.  Silver  Cyanide. 

Argentum  cyanatum. — Cyanure  d’ argent,  Fr. ; Silbercyanid,  Cyansilber , Gr. 

Formula  AgCN  = AgCy.  Molecular  weight  133.64. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Silver  Nitrate,  Potassium  Ferrocyanide,  each  2 troyounces; 
Sulphuric  Acid  1J  troyounces;  Distilled  Water  a sufficient  quantity.  Dissolve  the 
silver  nitrate  in  a pint  of  distilled  water  and  pour  the  solution  into  a tubulated  glass 
receiver.  Dissolve  potassium  ferrocyanide  in  10  fluidounces  of  distilled  water,  and  pour 
the  solution  into  a tubulated  retort  previously  adapted  to  the  receiver.  Having  mixed 
the  sulphuric  acid  with  4 fluidounces  of  distilled  water,  add  the  mixture  to  the  solution 
in  the  retort,  and  distil  by  means  of  a sand-bath,  with  a moderate  heat,  until  6 fluid- 
ounces  have  passed  over  or  until  the  distillate  no  longer  produces  a precipitate  in  the 
receiver.  Lastly,  wash  the  precipitate  with  distilled  water  and  dry  it. — V.  JS. 
1870. 

On  distilling  potassium  ferrocyanide,  with  sulphuric  acid,  hydrocyanic  acid  passes 
over  (see  Acidum  Hydrocyanicum),  which  reacts  with  silver  nitrate,  forming  nitric 
acid,  and  silver  cyanide,  which  precipitates;  HCy  -f-  AgN03  = HN03  + AgCy.  To 
avoid  loss  of  silver  the  distillation  should  be  continued  as  long  as  a precipitate  is  pro- 
duced in  the  solution. 

Properties. — Silver  cyanide  may  also  be  conveniently  prepared  by  adding  a solu- 
tion of  silver  nitrate  to  a solution  of  pure  potassium  cyanide  as  long  as  a precipitate 
continues  to  be  formed,  and  then  filtering  and  washing  the  precipitate  well  with  dis- 
tilled water.  When  silver  nitrate  solution  is  first  added,  no  precipitate  occurs,  owing  to 
the  formation  of  a soluble  compound,  KAg(CN)2 ; but  this  is  decomposed  by  further  addi- 
tion of  the  silver  solution,  and  silver  cyanide  is  then  precipitated.  About  170  grains  of 
silver  nitrate  will  require  65  grains  of  potassium  cyanide,  producing  about  133  grains  of 
silver  cyanide,  the  two  reactions  taking  place  being  as  follows:  (1)  2KCN  -f-  AgN03  = 
KAg  (CN)2  + KNO;} ; (2)  KAg  (CN)2  + AgNO;s  - 2AgCN  + KN03.  Silver  cyanide, 
when  dry,  forms  a white  amorphous  inodorous  and  tasteless  powder,  which  gradually 
turns  brown  on  exposure  to  the  light,  and  is  best  preserved  in  amber-colored  or  black 
vials.  When  heated  it  fuses,  giving  off  one-half  of  its  cyanogen,  and  suffering  further 
decomposition  by  a higher  heat,  leaving  finally  metallic  silver  amounting  to  80.56  per 
cent,  of  the  original  weight.  It  is  insoluble  in  simple  solvents  and  in  diluted  acids,  but 
is  decomposed  by  chlorine-water,  by  warm  solutions  of  chlorides  and  iodides,  and  by 
boiling  concentrated  acids,  with  the  evolution  of  hydrocyanic  acid,  furnishing  with  boiling 
nitric  acid  silver  nitrate,  but  crystallizing  from  hot  diluted  nitric  acid,  partly  in  minute 


278 


ARGENTI  IODIDUM.— ARGENTI  NITRAS. 


prisms.  It  is  readily  soluble  in  ammonia  and  sodium  thiosulphate,  somewhat  soluble  in 
ammoniacal  salts,  and  forms  soluble  double  salts  with  the  alkali  cyanides.  Dilute  hydro- 
chloric acid  decomposes  it,  yielding  silver  chloride/ and  hydrocyanic  acid. 

The  only  use  of  this  salt  in  medicine  is  to  serve  for  the  extemporaneous  preparation 
of  diluted  hydrocyanic  acid. 

ARGENTI  IODIDUM,  U.  S.— Silver  Iodide. 

Argentum  iodatum. — Iodure  d1  argent,  Fr.  ; Either jodid,  Jodsilber , G. 

Formula  Agl.  Molecular  weight  234.19. 

Preparation. — Dissolve  1 part  each  of  silver  nitrate  and  potassium  iodide  separately 
in  10  or  12  parts  of  water ; pour  the  silver  solution  gradually  and  wTith  continued  stirring 
into  the  solution  of  potassium  iodide  ; collect  the  precipitate  upon  a filter ; wash  it  well 
with  distilled  water  and  dry  it  upon  bibulous  paper.  1 ounce  of  silver  nitrate  yields 
1.34  to  1.37  ounce  of  silver  iodide.  By  mutual  decomposition  of  the  two  salts  silver 
iodide  and  potassium  nitrate  are  produced;  AgN03  -j-  KI  yields  Agl  + KN03.  The 
former  salt  being  insoluble  in  water,  is  freed  from  the  latter  by  washing  with  distilled 
water.  The  use  of  a slight  excess  of  the  potassium  salt  ensures  the  stability  of  the 
silver  iodide  in  the  light  (H.  Vogel).  Should  the  potassium  iodide  be  contaminated 
with  chloride,  the  precipitate  will  likewise  contain  silver  chloride,  which,  being  freely 
soluble  in  ammonia,  is  readily  removed  by  adding  to  the  mother-liquor  before  decanta- 
tion 1 or  2 parts  of  ammonia-water,  stirring  well  and  allowing  to  settle.  -It  is  advisable 
to  keep  the  salt  in  amber-colored  vials,  protected  from  the  light. 

Properties. — Silver  iodide  is  “ a heavy,  amorphous,  light-yellowish  powder,  unal- 
tered by  light  if  pure,  but  generally  becoming  somewhat  greenish-yellow,  without  odor 
and  taste,  and  insoluble  in  water,  alcohol,  diluted  acids,  or  in  solution  of  ammonium 
carbonate,  soluble  in  about  2500  parts  of  stronger  ammonia-water.  When  heated  to 
about  400°  C.  (752°  F.)  it  melts  to  a dark-red  liquid,  which  on  cooling  congeals  to  a 
soft,  yellow,  slightly  translucent  mass.  When  mixed  with  ammonia-water  it  turns 
white,  but  regains  its  yellowish  color  by  washing  with  water.  It  is  dissolved  by  an 
aqueous  solution  of  potassium  cyanide,  and  also  by  a concentrated  aqueous  solution  of 
potassium  iodide,  and  the  resulting  solutions  yield  a black  precipitate  with  hydrogen 
sulphide  or  ammonium  sulphide.  If  a small  quantity  of  chlorine-water  be  agitated 
with  an  excess  of  the  salt,  the  filtrate  acquires  a dark-blue  color  on  the  addition  of  gela- 
tinized starch.” — U.  E.  The  color  of  melting  silver  iodide  varies  according  to  the  tem- 
perature between  yellow,  red,  and  dark  red-brown.  At  a white  heat  the  salt  may  be 
sublimed,  but  when  heated  before  the  blowpipe  upon  charcoal  it  burns  with  a green 
flame  and  white  smoke,  leaving  a little  silver  behind.  Warm  potassa  solution  imparts 
a brownish  color  to  the  salt  and  decomposes  it  on  continued  boiling.  A concentrated 
solution  of  potassium  iodide  dissolves  the  salt,  which  is  reprecipitated  on  dilution  with 
water. 

Tests. — “If  0.5  Gm.  of  the  salt  be  digested  with  10  Cc.  of  a cold  15  per  cent,  solu- 
tion of  ammonium  carbonate  the  resulting  filtrate,  on  being  supersaturated  with  nitric 
acid,  should  not  be  rendered  more  than  faintly  opalescent  (absence  of  chloride.)  On 
digesting  a portion  of  the  salt — which  has  been  found  to  be  free  from  chloride,  or  from 
which  the  latter  has  been  completely  removed  by  repeated  digestion  with  ammonium 
carbonate — for  five  minutes  with  10  Co.  of  ammonia-water,  and  supersaturating  the 
filtrate  with  nitric  acid,  only  a slight  opalescence,  but  no  yellowish-white  precipitate, 
should  be  produced  (absence  of  bromide).” — U.  E. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  appears  to  be  a superfluous  addition  to  the  Pharmacopoeia. 
Long  since  obsolete,  it  was  at  one  time  vaunted  in  the  treatment  of  syphilis , of  visceral 
neuralgia , asthma , chorea  (Guibert,  Nouveaux  Medicaments , p.  427),  and  even  of  whoop- 
ing cough  ( Practitioner , iv.  373).  The  dose  prescribed  varied  from  Gm.  0.008-0.13.  (i 
grain  to  2 grains). 


ARGENTI  NITRAS,  U.  S.,  Br, — Silver  Nitrate. 

Argentum  nitricum  crystallisatum , Azof  as  (. Nitras ) argenticus. — Nitrate  ( Azotate ) d'  ar- 
gent, Nitre  lunaire , Fr. ; Eilhernitrat , Saltpetersaures  Either oxyd,  Silhersalpeter , G. ; Ni- 
trato  di plata,  Sp.  ; Nitrato  di  argento  cry  stall izzato , F.  It. 

Formula  AgN03  Molecular  weight  169.55. 

Preparation. — Take  Purified  Silver  3 ounces ; Nitric  acid  2i  fluidounces ; Dis- 


ARGENTI  NITRAS. 


279 


tilled  Water  5 ounces.  Add  the  nitric  acid  and  the  water  to  the  silver  in  a flask,  and 
apply  a gentle  heat  till  the  metal  is  dissolved.  Decant  the  clear  liquid  from  any  black 
powder  which  may  be  present  into  a porcelain  dish,  evaporate  and  set  aside  to  crystal- 
lize ; pour  off  the  liquor  and  again  evaporate  and  crystallize.  Let  the  crystals  drain  in 
a glass  funnel,  and  dry  them  by  exposure  to  the  air,  carefully  avoiding  the  contact  of 
all  organic  substances.  Silver  nitrate  must  be  preserved  in  bottles  carefully  stop- 
pered.— Br. 

When  silver  is  dissolved  in  nitric  acid,  silver  nitrate  is  formed  and  hydrogen  set  free ; 
the  latter  reacts  with  another  portion  of  nitric  acid,  forming  water  and  nitric  oxide, 
which  is  a colorless  gas,  but  on  contact  with  the  atmosphere  is  oxidized,  so  as  to  form 
red  vapors  of  nitrogen  tetroxide.  These  reactions  are  explained  by  the  following  equa- 
tions : 6HN03  -f  3Ag2  yields  6AgN03  + 3H2 ; 3H2  + 2HN03  yields  4H20  + 2NO  ; 
2NO  -f  02  yields  N204  or  2N02.  The  results  of  the  process  under  the  circumstances 
stated  are  therefore  water,  silver  nitrate,  which  remains  in  solution,  and  nitrogen  tetrox- 
ide, which  escapes.  If  insufficient  heat  is  applied  during  the  reaction  the  nitric  oxide 
generated  remains  wholly  or  in  part  in  solution,  reducing  the  excess  of  nitric  acid  to 
nitrogen  trioxide  and  tetroxide.  Should  the  solution  be  made  in  a porcelain  capsule,  it 
will  be  found  of  advantage  to  invert,  a glass  funnel  over  the  mixture,  whereby  not  only 
some  nitric  acid,  which  would  otherwise  escape,  is  condensed  and  flows  back  into  the 
dish,  but  the  loss  of  silver  solution  by  sputtering  is  likewise  prevented.  Since  the  best 
refined  silver  usually  contains  minute  quantities  of  other  metals,  particularly  copper, 
their  removal  becomes  necessary,  and  is  effected  either  by  crystallization,  when  the 
impurities,  together  with  some  silver,  will  remain  in  the  mother-liquor,  or  the  solution  is 
evaporated  to  dryness  and  the  crystalline  or  granular  mass  further  heated  until  it  is 
fused  and  cease's  to  give  off  acid  vapors.  The  copper  nitrate  and  other  metals  are 
decomposed  by  heat  before  the  silver  nitrate  is  affected,  and  the  fused  mass  acquires  a 
more  or  less  dark-gray  color  in  proportion  to  the  amount  of  cupric  oxide  contained  in  it. 
The  latter,  being  insoluble  in  water,  is  easily  removed  by  dissolving  the  cooled  salt  in 
distilled  water  and  decanting  or  filtering  the  solution  before  evaporating  it.  The  purifi- 
cation of  silver  nitrate  by  fusion  was  the  process  recommended  by  the  Lb  S.  P.  1870. 
In  following  it,  unless  the  heat  be  very  carefully  regulated,  some  silver  nitrate  will  be 
reduced  to  nitrite,  and  contact  with  organic  matter  will  tend  to  deoxidize  it.  It  is 
therefore  advisable  to  acidulate  the  solution  with  a little  nitric  acid. 

Both  processes  are  applicable  in  cases  where  the  metallic  impurities  are  small  in  quan- 
tity. If  silver  coin  is  used,  the  first  crystallization  will  not  be  pure,  and  if  evaporated 
to  dryness  and  fused  a portion  of  silver  oxide  will  be  separated.  In  such  a case  it  is 
advisable  either  to  treat  the  first  crop  of  crystals  by  fusion  or  to  purify  the  silver  by  one 
of  the  processes  given  elsewhere.  (See  Argentum.) 

Properties. — Silver  nitrate  exists  in  colorless  shining  tabular  crystals  of  the 
rhombic  system,  which  are  inodorous  and  have  a caustic  and  strongly  metallic  taste  and 
a neutral  reaction.  It  is  soluble  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  in  0.6  part  of  water  and  in  26  parts 
of  alcohol  (£/!  S.) ; in  0.6  part  of  water  and  in  10  parts  of  alcohol,  spec.  grav.  0.832 
(P.  G.) ; also  in  0.1  part  of  boiling  water  and  in  5 parts  of  boiling  alcohol  (IT.  S .). 
Kremers  (1854)  ascertained  that  1 part  of  silver  nitrate  dissolves  at  0°  C.  (32°  F.)  in 
0.82  parts,  at  11°  C.  (51.8°  F.)  in  7.83  parts  (Schnauss),  at  19.5°  C.  (67°  F.)  in  0.44 
parts,  at  54°  C.  (129.2°  F.)  in  0.20  parts,  and  at  110°  C.  (230°  F.)  in  0.09  parts  of 
water.  Eder  found  the  salt  soluble  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  in  26  parts,  at  50°  C.  (122°  F.) 
in  13.7  parts,  and  at  75°  C.  (167°  F.)  in  5.5  parts  of  alcohol  (sp.  gr.  .817).  It  is  like- 
wise, though  less  freely,  soluble  in  ordinary  ether,  but  nearly  insoluble  in  absolute  ether, 
freely  soluble  in  diluted,  but  sparingly  soluble  in  strong  nitric  acid.  It  melts  at  200°  C. 
(392°  F.)  to  a faintly  yellow  liquid,  and  on  cooling  congeals  to  a white  crystalline  mass; 
at  a higher  temperature  nitrous  vapors  are  given  off,  leaving  silver  oxide  and  nitrate ; 
heated  to  a dull-red  heat,  metallic  silver  is  left.  The  crystals  and  the  aqueous  solution 
are  permanent  in  the  air  and  light,  except  in  the  presence  of  organic  matter,  whereby 
they  acquire  a dark  color.  The  alcoholic  solution  when  exposed  to  the  light  is  gradually 
reduced,  silver  being  separated.  Hydrochloric  acid  produces  in  the  solution  a white 
curdy  precipitate  of  argentic  chloride,  which  is  insoluble  in  dilute  nitric  acid,  but  dis- 
solves readily  in  ammonia.  Stains  produced  by  silver  nitrate  upon  the  skin  are  removed 
by  rubbing  them  with  a strong  solution  of  potassium  cyanide,  or  by  moistening  them 
first  with  a solution  of  iodine  and  afterward  with  sodium  thiosulphate.  The  solution  of 
silver  nitrate  acidulated  with  nitric  acid  and  heated  with  alcohol  produces  the  violently 
explosive  compound  known  as  fulminating  silver. 


280 


ARGENTI  NITRAS  DILUTES. 


Silver  nitrate  contains  no  water  of  crystallization. 

Tests. — 10  grains  of  silver  nitrate  yield  8.44  grains  of  chloride. — Br.  The  salt 
should  yield  with  ammonia  a clear  and  colorless  solution  (absence  of  copper,  lead,  etc.), 
and  its  aqueous  solution,  when  precipitated  by  an  excess  of  hydrochloric  acid,  should 
yield  a filtrate  which  is  not  colored  by  hydrogen  sulphide,  and  when  evaporated  leaves 
no  residue  (absence  of  other  salts).  A 10  per  cent,  aqueous  solution,  mixed  with  four 
times  its  volume  of  diluted  sulphuric  acid  and  heated  to  boiling,  should  not  become 
turbid. — U.  S.,  P.  G.  This  test  indicates  the  absence  of  lead,  the  sulphate  of  which  is 
insoluble,  while  silver  sulphate  is  soluble  in  68.6  parts  of  boiling  water.  ^ 0.3391  Gm. 
of  silver  nitrate,  dissolved  in  10  Cc.  of  water,  should  require,  for  complete  precipita- 
tion, 20  Cc.  of  decinormal  sodium  chloride  solution  (corresponding  to  100  per  cent,  of 
the  pure  salt).” — U.  S. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Silver  nitrate  is  used  in  the  preparation  of  the  other 
medicinal  compounds  of  silver  and  of  indelible  ink. 

Indelible  ink  is  frequently  made  of  silver  nitrate.  From  the  numerous  formulas 
recommended  we  select  the  following  : Dissolve  2 drachm’s  of  silver  nitrate  in  7 fluid- 
drachms  of  distilled  water,  and  add  1 fluidrachm  of  mucilage  of  gum-arabic  colored  with 
sap-green  or  other  coloring  matter.  This  ink  is  used  after  a mordant,  which  is  a solution 
of  sodium  carbonate  and  gum  in  water,  of  the  strength  of  1 part  of  the  former  to  from 
5 to  10  of  the  latter  (Cooley). 

1 part  of  silver  is  dissolved  in  6 parts  each  of  distilled  water  and  mucilage  of  gum. 
It  is  to  be  used  with  a mordant  composed  of  1 part  of  sodium  hypophosphite,  2 of  gum- 
arabic,  and  16  of  distilled  water  (Ruhr). 

The  following  indelible  inks  are  used  without  mordant : 

8 parts  of  silver  nitrate  and  3 parts  of  tartaric  acid  are  triturated  together.;  a little 
water  is  then  added,  and  afterward  a sufficient  amount  of  ammonia-water  to  neutralize 
the  free  acid  and  dissolve  the  silver  tartrate ; lastly,  a little  gum  and  coloring  matter  is 
added  (Reade). 

Silver  nitrate  and  potassium  bitartrate,  of  each  8 drachms,  are  rubbed  together  and 
dissolved  in  4 ounces  of  ammonia-water  ; 4 drachms  of  archil,  6 of  white  sugar,  and  10 
of  powdered  gum  are  added,  and  when  solution  has  taken  place  sufficient  water  to  make 
the  whole  measure  6 fluidounces  (Redwood). 

ARGENTI  NITRAS  DILUTUS,  U.  Diluted  Silver  Nitrate. 

Argenti  et  potassii  nitras , Br. ; Argentum  nitricum  cum  Icalio-nitrico , P.  G.  ; Argentum 
nitricum  fusum  mitigatum , Lapis  inf  emails  nitratus. — Nitrate  of  silver  and  potassium,  Miti- 
gated caustic , E. ; Azotate  di argent  mitige , Pierre  infernale  dilute,  Fr.  ; Salpeterlialtiger 
Hollenstein , G. ; Nitrato  di  argento  fuso  con  nitrato  di potassio,  F.  It. 

Preparation. — Silver  Nitrate  30  Gm. ; Potassium  Nitrate  60  Gm.  Melt  the  salts 
together  in  a porcelain  crucible  at  as  low  a temperature  as  possible,  stirring  the  melted 
mass  well  until  it  flows  smoothly.  Then  cast  it  in  suitable  moulds.  Keep  the  product 
in  dark  amber-colored  vials,  protected  from  light. — U.  S. 

Silver  nitrate  1 part,  potassium  nitrate  2 parts. — P.  G .,  Br. 

Properties. — “ A white,  hard  solid,  generally  in  form  of  pencils  or  cones  of  a finely 
granular  fracture,  becoming  gray  or  grayish  black  on  exposure  to  light  in  presence  of 
organic  matter  ; odorless,  having  a caustic  metallic  taste  and  a neutral  reaction.  Each 
of  its  constituents  retains  the  solubility  in  water  and  in  alcohol,  mentioned  respectively 
under  Argenti  Nitras  and  Potassii  Nitras.” — U.  S.  The  pencils  are  less  fragile  and 
more  opaque  than  those  made  of  pure  silver  nitrate.  They  will  contain  silver  nitrite, 
and  blacken  on  exposure  to  light  if  the  salts  had  been  melted  at  too  high  a heat.  If 
made  with  sodium  nitrate  they  become  superficially  moist  in  a damp  atmosphere. 

Tests. — “ An  aqueous  solution  of  diluted  silver  nitrate  yields  with  a slight  excess 
of  hydrochloric  acid,  a white  precipitate,  which  is  readily  soluble  in  ammonia-water. 
The  filtrate  from  the  precipitate,  when  evaporated  to  dryness,  yields  a white  residue 
which  is  completely  soluble  in  water,  and  this  solution  affords  a yellow,  crystalline  pre- 
cipitate with  platinic  chloride  test-solution,  and  a white  crystalline  precipitate  with 
sodium  bitartrate  test-solution.  If  to  an  aqueous  solution  of  diluted  silver  nitrate  a 
slight  excess  of  ammonia-water  be  added,  it  should  neither  assume  a blue  color  (absence 
of  copper ) nor  afford  any  turbidity  (absence  of  lead  and  bismuth).  If  1 Gm.  of  diluted 
silver  nitrate,  dissolved  in  10  Cc.  of  water,  be  mixed  with  20  Cc.  of  decinormal  sodium 
chloride  solution,  and  then  a few  drops  of  potassium  chromate  solution  added,  not  more 


ARGENTI  NITRAS  FUSUS. 


281 


than  0.5  Cc.  of  decinormal  silver  nitrate  solution  should  be  required  to  impart  to  the 
liquid  a permanent  red  color  (corresponding  to  at  least  33  per  cent,  of  pure  silver 
nitrate. — IT.  S. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  is  merely  a mitigated  form  of  moulded  silver  nitrate,  and 
may  sometimes  be  found  convenient  when  a slight  caustic  action  is  intended. 

ARGENTI  NITRAS  FUSUS,  XT.  Moulded  Silver  Nitrate. 

Argentum  nitricum  (fusum),  P.  G.  ; Lap  is-in fern  alls,  Azotas  ( Nitras ) argenticus  fusus. 
— Fused  nitrate  of  silver , Lunar  caustic , E. ; Nitrate  ( Azotate ) d' argent  fondu , Pierre 
infemale,  Fr.  ; HdUenstein,  Geschmolzenes  salpetersaures  Silberoxgd,  G. 

Preparation. — Silver  Nitrate  100  Gm. ; Hydrochloric  Acid  4 Gm.  To  the  silver 
nitrate  contained  in  a porcelain  capsule,  add  the  hydrochloric  acid,  and  melt  the  mixture 
at  as  low  a temperature  as  possible.  Stir  well,  and  pour  the  melted  mass  into  suitable 
moulds.  Keep  the  product  in  dark  amber-colored  vials,  protected  from  light. — U.  S. 

To  obtain  the  nitrate  in  rods,  fuse  the  crystals  in  a capsule  of  thin  porcelain  or  plat- 
inum. and  pour  the  melted  salt  into  proper  moulds. — Br. 

The  reasons  for  the  cautious  application  of  heat  when  fusing  silver  nitrate  have  been 
pointed  out  above.  (See  Argenti  Nitras.)  The  salt  being  decomposed  by  nearly  all  the 
metals  when  heated  with  them,  capsules  of  platinum  or  of  the  best  porcelain  are  the 
only  vessels  suitable  for  this  operation.  When  fused  it  has  the  appearance  of  a color- 
less, transparent,  oily  liquid,  and  is  then  ready  to  be  poured  into  the  moulds,  which 
should  he  faced  with  pure  silver.  Brass  moulds  are  sometimes  used,  but  they  are  liable 
to  contaminate  the  product  with  copper.  Steel  or  porcelain  moulds  may  be  used  after 
they  have  been  rubbed  with  some  powdered  French  chalk,  which  prevents  the  fused  salt 
from  adhering  to  the  mould.  If  the  moulds  have  been  previously  warmed  to  about  40° 
or  50°  C.  (104°  or  122°  F.),  the  fused  mass  will  not  congeal  too  rapidly.  Oiling  the 
moulds  should  be  avoided,  lest  a reduction  of  the  salt  should  take  place. 

Properties. — Moulded  pure  silver  nitrate  is  met  with  in  nearly  colorless  thin  cylin- 
ders or  pointed  cones,  which  when  broken  show  a crystalline  texture  upon  the  fractured 
surface ; in  solubility,  chemical  behavior,  and  composition  it  agrees  with  the  crystal- 
lized nitrate.  It  is  not  affected  by  light  unless  it  has  been  partly  reduced  by  too  high  a 
heat  to  silver  nitrite  or  been  in  contact  with  organic  matter ; wrapping  the  sticks  in 
paper  or  handling  them  with  the  fingers  should  therefore  be  avoided.  The  pencils  are 
rather  brittle,  but  the  addition  of  a little  silver  chloride,  as  proposed  by  Dr.  Squibb 
(1858),  renders  the  sticks  more  opaque  and  tough.  This  is  now  recognized  by  the 
U.  S.  P.,  and  contains  about  5 per  cent,  of  silver  chloride,  which  is  left  undissolved  on 
treatment  with  water ; it  is  likewise  insoluble  in  dilute  nitric  acid,  but  is  completely  solu- 
ble in  ammonia-water.  “Toughened  caustic,”  Br.,  consists  of  silver  nitrate  95  parts,  and 
potassium  nitrate  5 parts. 

Tests. — For  the  pure  lunar  caustic  the  same  tests  may  be  applied  as  for  the  crystals. 
Oxide  or  metallic  silver  in  very  fine  division  is  occasionally  present,  either  in  consequence 
of  too  high  a heat  having  been  employed  or  because  the  sticks  have  been  in  contact  with 
organic  matter ; it  will  be  left  behind  as  a black  powder  on  treating  the  sticks  with 
distilled  water.  “If  0.34  Gm.  of  moulded  silver  nitrate,  dissolved  as  completely  as  pos- 
sible in  10  Cc.  of  water,  be  mixed  with  20  Cc.  of  decinormal  sodium  chloride  solution, 
and  then  a few  drops  of  potassium  chromate  test-solution  added,  not  more  than  1 Cc.  of 
decinormal  silver  nitrate  solution  should  be  required  to  impart  to  the  liquid  a permanent 
red  color  (corresponding  to  95  per  cent,  of  pure  silver  nitrate).” — U.  S. 

Action  and  Uses. — Applied  to  a mucous  membrane  or  to  the  raw  skin,  nitrate 
of  silver  causes  a severe  smarting  and  burning  pain,  and  forms  a white  pellicle,  by 
coagulating  the  albumen  and  fibrin  of  the  part,  which  speedily  dries.  Repeated  appli- 
cations may  occasion  permanent  stains.  Upon  the  sound  skin  its  prolonged  application 
occasions  vesication  with  a surrounding  red  border,  but  it  does  not  cause  ulceration  of 
the  chorion,  and  the  superficial  loss  of  substance  is  rapidly  restored.  The  cauterized 
surface,  by  exposure  to  the  light,  gradually  turns  brown,  and  even  black.  The  case  is 
recorded  of  a man  who  for  the  space  of  a year  was  accustomed  to  dye  his  hair  and  beard 
with  a solution  of  nitrate  of  silver.  He  suffered  from  general  depression,  giddiness,  men- 
tal debility,  hardness  of  hearing  and  tinnitus,  spasm  of  the  muscles  of  the  eyes  and  face ; 
all  of  which  symptoms  speedily  disappeared  on  ceasing  to  use  the  hair-dye.  Taken  inter- 
nally, by  far  the  larger  portion  of  the  salt  is  discharged  as  a chloride  of  silver  with  the 
feces,  but  that  a portion  also  is  retained  is  certain,  partly  from  the  therapeutical  effects, 


282 


ARGENT  I NITRAS  FUSES. 


but  more  evidently  from  tlie  peculiar  violet  discoloration  of  the  exposed  portions  of  the 
skin  produced  by  its  prolonged  use,  as  well  as  from  its  detection  in  the  kidneys,  choroid 
plexuses,  etc.  An  analogous  stain  is  sometimes  observed  on  the  gums  and  inner  surface 
of  the  cheeks  before  the  skin  is  affected.  As  long  ago  as  1814,  Roget  reported  the  case 
(. Med.-Chir . Trans.,  vii.  290)  of  a lady  who,  after  taking  nitrate  of  silver  for  some  time, 
“ observed  that  the  tongue  and  fauces  had  acquired  a dark  color  as  if  stained  with  ink,” 
and  that  subsequently  the  complexion  grew  dark.  A recent  case  has  been  reported  by 
Shellenberger  (Med.  News,  1.  417).  Several  cases  are  recorded  in  which  the  characteristic 
stain  followed  repeated  applications  of  lunar  caustic  to  the  throat,  but  doubtless  the  salt 
was  swallowed  ( Phila . Med.  Times  ix.  479;  Therap.  Gaz .,  xii.  711  ; Med.  News,  li.  735). 
Nitric  acid  and  also  iodide  of  potassium  taken  internally  are  reported  to  lessen  the  inten- 
sity of  the  discoloration  caused  by  the  absorption  of  this  salt.  It  is  worthy  of  notice 
that  when  discoloration  of  the  skin  is  produced  by  the  prolonged  use  of  small  doses  of 
the  salt,  no  other  symptoms  occur  which  can  be  attributed  to  its  operation. 

Doses  of  one-half  a grain  occasion  no  special  symptoms,  but  larger  quantities  are  apt 
to  cause  gastric  heat,  pain,  and  nausea.  But  much  depends  upon  whether  the  stomach 
contains  food  or  not.  In  poisonous  doses  it  occasions  gastric  irritation  and  diarrhoea  as 
direct  effects,  and  indirectly  loss  of  consciousness,  anaesthesia,  convulsions,  muscular 
exhaustion,  a faint  pulse,  and  a cold,  clammy  skin.  In  some  cases  of  chronic  poisoning 
by  it  a scorbutic  condition  is'alleged  to  have  been  observed,  resembling  that  produced  by 
this  salt  in  animals.  Nitrate  of  silver  by  its  long-continued  use  has  ulcerated  the 
stomach,  and  a portion  of  fused  nitrate  has  been  arrested  in  the  fauces  and  caused 
swelling  of  the  glottis,  in  both  instances  destroying  life. 

In  various  disorders  of  the  stomach,  including  morbid  sensibility  of  that  organ  from 
chronic  inflammation,  neuralgia,  and  chronic  ulcer,  the  use  of  nitrate  of  silver  has  some- 
times relieved  pain,  checked  vomiting  and  acid  eructations,  and  restored  health  by  promot- 
ing healthy  digestion.  The  difficult  diagnosis  of  such  cases  renders  the  application  of  the 
remedy  uncertain,  but  its  benefits  are  sometimes  striking.  Diarrhoea , whether  depend- 
ent upon  debility  of  the  intestine  or  upon  ulceration  due  to  tuberculosis,  or  chronic  dys- 
entery, or  prolonged  typhoid  fever,  is  favorably  modified  by  nitrate  of  silver.  In  dysen- 
tery which  is  either  subacute  or  has  not  entirely  passed  into  the  chronic  stage  enemata 
containing  the  salt  are  to  be  preferred.  They  should  consist  of  two  or  three  pints  of 
water  in  which  are  dissolved  from  20  to  60,  and  sometimes  even  80  grains,  Gm.  1.30- 
1.45  and  the  solution  should  be  introduced  through  a long  rectal  tube  from  an  irri- 
gating vessel,  and  more  or  less  slowly  or  rapidly  according  to  the  sensibility  of  the  patient. 
Even  in  Asiatic  cholera  the  medicine  may  be  advantageously  exhibited  both  by  mouth 
and  rectum.  There  is  some  evidence  of  its  utility  in  chronic  jaundice  from  an  accumu- 
lation of  thick  bile  in  the  ducts.  Its  sedative  action  upon  the  heart,  demonstrated  by 
experiments  upon  animals,  receives  a confirmation  from  experience,  which  shows  it  to 
be  a palliative  of  abnormal  action  of  the  heart  in  organic  as  well  as  functional  disease  of 
that  organ.  In  like  manner,  its  action  upon  the  lungs  is  illustrated  by  its  beneficial 
effects  in  some  cases  of  bronchitis  with  muco-purulent  expectoration  and  hectic  fever. 
But  its  efficacy  in  nervous  diseases  is  still  more  evident  in  the  apparent  cures  of  epilepsy 
attributed  to  its  use.  The  special  forms  of  the  disease  which  it  most  favorably  influ- 
ences are  undetermined.  It  must  be  given  for  a long  time,  commencing  with  doses  of  Gm. 
0.016  (gr.  i)  three  times  a day,  and  gradually  increased.  Every  three  or  four  weeks 
its  administration  should  be  suspended  for  a few  days  in  order  to  diminish  the  risk  of 
staining  the  skin.  Since  the  introduction  of  the  bromides  this  medicine  has,  like  many 
other  anti-epileptic  remedies,  been  almost  entirely  neglected.  In  that  form  of  paralysis 
known  as  locomotor  ataxia  (sclerosis  either  disseminated  or  limited  to  the  lateral  columns) 
nitrate  of  silver  is  reported  to  have  effected  cures ; but  a close  scrutiny  of  the  matter 
shows  that  the  cases  cured  were  not  examples  of  this  disease,  but  of  congestion  of  the 
cord,  generally  associated  with  rheumatism,  but  sometimes  resulting  from  concussion 
(St.  Bart's  Hosp.  Rep.,  xv.  176;  Bokai,  Centralb.  f.  Ther.,  ii.  64;  Rosenbaum,  Therap. 
Monatsh .,  iv.  232).  In  not  a few  instances  this  salt,  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.006—0.013  (gr. 
-J-q-^)  several  times  a day,  has  effected  cures  when  other  methods  failed.  Relief  of  dys- 
menorrhoea  has  been  attributed  to  the  internal  use  of  this  medicine  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.008 
(gr.  -1-)  three  times  a day  (Blackwood,  Phila.  Med.  Times,  xii.  518). 

Lunar  caustic  has  been  extensively  employed  in  the  treatment  of  diphtheritic  exuda- 
tions of  all  kinds,  in  diphtheria,  croup,  etc.,  and  there  is  no  doubt  that  it  sometimes 
appears  to  modify  favorably  the  affected  surfaces  and  to  prevent  the  increase  and  exten- 
sion of  false  membranes.  In  the  case  of  laryngeal  croup  it  was  at  one  time  the  custom 


ARGENTI  NITRAS  FUSES. 


283 


to  introduce  into  the  larynx  a strong  solution  of  the  salt  (40  grains  to  the  ounce  of 
water)  by  means  of  a sponge  or  brush,  but  more  recently  an  atomized  solution  of  the 
same  strength  has  been  substituted.  In  pharyngeal  diphtheria,  in  which  the  existence 
and  condition  of  the  false  membrane  are  more  demonstrable,  as  well  as  the  influence  of 
treatment  upon  it,  the  tendency  of  opinion  among  the  most  judicious  physicians  is  less 
favorable  than  formerly  to  any  form  of  local  cauterization.  It  is  alleged — and  our  own 
observation  leads  us  to  believe — that  this  method,  which  was  at  one  time  regarded  as 
essential,  is  often  injurious  by  the  irritation  it  causes  and  the  extension  of  the  deposit 
which  follows  its  use.  In  laryngeal  croup  the  results  of  the  treatment  appear  to  be  more 
favorable,  but  it  must  not  be  forgotten  that  the  diagnosis  of  the  disease  from  simple 
laryngitis  is  often  obscure,  and  also  that  the  immediate  dependence  of  life  upon  the 
freedom  of  the  larynx  and  trachea  from  obstruction  must  modify  the  conclusions  arrived 
at  in  regard  to  the  laryngeal  as  compared  with  the  pharyngeal  affection.  The  advan- 
tages of  nitrate  of  silver  in  chronic  ulceration  and  simple  inflammation  of  the  larynx  and 
trachea  are  unequivocal.  It  exerts  here  the  same  stimulant  and  protective  influence  that 
it  does  over  similar  lesions  elsewhere,  and  thus  promotes  the  restoration  of  the  parts 
to  health  as  far  as  possible.  Ulcers  of  the  larynx  are  never  primary,  but  always 
dependent  upon  a diathetic  influence  (tubercle,  syphilis,  cancer),  a cure  of  them  by  local 
treatment  alone  is  not  to  be  expected ; but  this  method  is  invaluable  for  the  relief  it 
affords  to  suffering  by  palliating  the  symptoms  which  the  local  lesions  occasion.  In  simple 
chronic  laryngitis  the  same  treatment  may  suffice  for  a permanent  cure.  Many  cases  of 
aphonia  depending  upon  this  affection  may  thus  be  permanently  cured.  The  stimulant 
action  of  solutions  of  nitrate  of  silver,  applied  by  sponge,  brush,  syringe,  or  atomizer,  is 
most  efficient  in  the  various  forms  of  simple  laryngitis,  and  also  in  nervous  aphonia  and 
in  whooping  cough.  In  the  last-mentioned  affection  the  pharynx  as  well  as  the  larynx 
should  be  impressed  by  means  of  an  atomized  solution  of  the  salt.  In  all  inflammations 
of  the  pharynx , whether  acute  or  chronic,  solutions  of  nitrate  of  silver  have  been  used, 
diluted  in  the  more  acute  and  superficial  forms,  and  stronger  in  the  chronic  follicular  and 
ulcerous  affections  of  the  part.  They  are  signally  useful  in  that  form  known  as  clergy- 
man's sore  throat , and  are  the  best  palliatives  of  tubercular  and  syphilitic  ulcers  of  this 
part.  A comparatively  weak  atomized  solution  is  more  efficient  in  these  cases  than  a 
strong  solution  applied  with  a sponge  or  brush.  Caution  must  be  used  in  applying  the 
caustic  to  the  auditory  canal.  A case  in  which  this  was  done  after  the  loss  of  a portion 
of  the  tympanum  presented  alarming  symptoms  ( Lancet , Feb.  4,  1888). 

If  in  any  case  it  is  possible  to  prevent  tonsillitis  from  passing  into  quinsy , this  end  may 
be  most  securely  reached  by  the  application  of  lunar  caustic  freely  to  the  swollen  gland. 
But  the  termination  in  suppuration  can  never,  in  a particular  case,  be  predicted  with 
certainty.  It  sometimes  happens  also  that  this  use  of  the  caustic  appears  to  promote 
and  not  to  hinder  suppuration.  Local  vesication  by  means  of  a saturated  solution  of 
the  crystallized  salt  or  with  the  fused  nitrate  is  an  efficient  means  of  treating  various 
local  ailments.  It  may  be  [used  over  the  superficial  portions  of  nerves  in  various  neur- 
algia ; superficially  also  over  lymphatic  vessels  and  glands  in  the  first  stage  of  inflamma- 
tion ; paronychia  and  other  forms  of  local  inflammation,  such  as  abscesses , may  be 
treated  in  the  same  way.  It  has  been  used  to  blister  the  brow  in  iritis.  It  has  been  also 
applied  by  deep  injection  in  sciatica.  The  value  of  this  treatment  may  be  measured  by  the 
fact  that  a precisely  similar  result  ensued  upon  the  injection  of  pure  water.  The  silver  salt 
so  injected  causes  severe  pain,  followed  by  abscess.  The  substitutive  action  of  nitrate 
of  silver  is  pre-eminently  useful  in  ophthalmia  or  conjunctivitis.  In  different  degrees  of 
strength  it  may  arrest  the  development  of  a mild  inflammation  or  so  modify  the  mem- 
brane as  to  cure  the  most  chronic  forms  of  this  affection.  It  is  by  no  means  the  stronger 
solutions  that  are  most  efficacious.  A solution  of  one  grain  to  the  ounce,  applied  every 
hour  or  two,  is  preferable  to  one  of  twice  the  strength  used  at  intervals  of  two  or  four 
hours.  The  case  is  recorded  of  wellnigh  fatal  haemorrhage  caused  by  applying  a 2 
per  cent,  solution  of  the  salt  to  the  eyes  of  a new-born  child  {Med.  Record , xxxii.  213). 
The  disused  practice  of  producing  counter-irritation  in  these  affections  by  blistering  the 
brow  with  this  caustic  has  been  recommended  anew  ( Med . Times  and  Gaz.,  Dec.  1879, 
p.  635).  In  treating  ulcers  of  the  cornea  care  should  be  taken  lest  the  undissolved  or 
precipitated  salt  should  permanently  stain  the  structure  and  form  an  obstacle  to  distinct 
vision.  Blepharitis , or  inflammation  of  the  follicles  of  the  edges  of  the  lids,  is  said  to 
be  well  treated  with  an  ointment  of  nitrate  of  silver  (gr.  iij  to  Jj),  but  it  is  better  to 
touch  the  parts  with  a strong  solution  of  the  salt  and  then  cover  them  with  simple  oint- 
ment. Of  all  agents  for  modifying  ulcers , none  is  so  frequently  applied  as  nitrate  of 


284 


ARGENTI  NITRAS  FUSUS. 


silver.  Its  internal  use  for  this  purpose  has  already  been  noticed,  but  it  is  still  more 
commonly  applied  to  ulcers  of  the  external  integument — to  the  irritable  in  weak  solu- 
tion as  an  astringent,  stimulant,  and  protective,  and  to  the  indolent  in  caustic  form  to 
destroy  inert  tissue,  or  rather  to  revive  its  dormant  vitality.  Probably  no  other  single 
agent  is  so  useful  in  the  treatment  of  ulcers,  and  none  whose  effects  can  be  so  readily 
modified  by  the  degrees  of  action  allowed  in  its  application.  Thiersch  has  used  a solu- 
tion of  1 part  of  the  salt  to  1000  of  water  to  make  subcutaneous  injections  around  and 
beneath  indurated  ulcers,  with  the  effect  of  curing  some  which  resisted  all  other  methods. 
The  operation  is  painful  and  should  be  performed  during  anaesthesia  ( Boston  Med.  and 
Surg.  Jour.,  May,  1881.  p.  500).  Fused  nitrate  of  silver,  in  the  form  of  a fine  point, 
is  an  efficient  means  of  arresting  haemorrhage  from  leech-bites.  This  caustic  has  been 
used  with  advantage  in  treating  punctured  and  lacerated  ivounds,  and  especially  poisoned 
wounds.  In  the  former  case  it  produces  a protective  film,  and  in  the  latter  probably  tends 
to  destroy  the  virus.  It  is  one  of  the  best  remedies  for  mercurial  sore  mouth  in  its 
ulcerative  stage.  Its  stimulant  and  protective  actions  combined  make  it  a useful  appli- 
cation to  ulcers  of  the  skin,  and  especially  to  those  of  an  indolent  character ; and  these, 
as  well  as  its  action  upon  the  specific  virus  of  chancres , render  it  a valuable  agent  in 
their  first  stage.  It  is  generally  held  that  if  induration  have  already  taken  place  this 
treatment  will  not  prevent  constitutional  infection,  but  some  maintain  that  it  is  useless, 
no  matter  how  early  it  is  employed.  A similar  ectrotic  method  has  been  used  to  pre- 
vent pitting  in  small-pox , and  often  with  apparent  success.  The  application  of  a strong 
solution  of  the  salt  during  the  papular,  or  early  in  the  vesicular,  stage  sometimes  arrests 
the  development  of  the  pocks.  The  same  method  has  been  used  in  zona,  herpes , and 
intertrigo,  but  in  the  last-named  affection  the  solution  should  be  weak  (gr.  v to  f|j).  In 
the  treatment  of  sore  nipples  the  caustic  pencil  may  be  applied  to  the  fissures  or  ulcers 
or  the  part  may  be  enveloped  with  lint  wet  with  a weak  solution  of  the  salt.  A case  is 
recorded  in  which  a vascular  nsevus  of  the  hand  was  injected  with  a few  drops  of  a con- 
centrated solution  of  the  salt.  Intense  pain  immediately  followed  and  coldness  of  the 
limb,  and  two  fingers  became  black  and  dry  up  to  the  second  joint,  and  subsequently 
were  amputated  ( Phila . Med.  Times,  xi.  795).  It  is  claimed  that  sebaceous  cysts  may 
be  cured' by  puncture  with  a cataract  knife,  evacuation  of  the  contents,  and  the  intro- 
duction of  a small  piece  of  silver  nitrate.  The  capsule,  it  is  said,  may  be  withdrawn 
with  the  forceps  at  the  end  of  twenty-four  hours  (Brit.  Med.  Jour.,  June,  1888,  p.  1160). 

Burns,  if  superficial,  may  be  treated  with  the  fused  nitrate  or  brushed  over  with  a 
strong  solution  of  the  crystallized  salt,  and  then  closely  enveloped  in  lint  or  carded 
cotton.  The  same  method  has  been  much  employed  in  erysipelas  when  it  affects  the  face 
alone,  and  also  when  it  involves  the  scalp.  A strong  solution  is  to  be  preferred,  and  the 
earlier  in  the  attack  it  is  used  the  more  apt  are  its  effects  to  be  beneficial.  It  must, 
however,  be  remembered  that  erysipelas  of  the  face  is  not  usually  a local  inflammation 
merely,  and  it  is  by  no  means  proven  that  its  treatment  by  nitrate  of  silver  shortens  its 
duration  or  mitigates  its  symptoms  (Polatebenoff,  Therap.  Gaz.,  xii.  251).  Nitrate  of 
silver  is  of  great  value  in  treating  several  diseases  with  purulent  discharges,  as  otorrhoea, 
gonorrhoea , and  leucorrhoea.  In  the  second  of  these  affections  it  should  be  cautiously 
used,  at  least  in  the  male,  during  the  acute  stage ; too  strong  a solution  has  been  known 
to  cause  violent  inflammation  of  the  urethra  and  bladder,  orchitis,  etc.  Theoretical  notions 
of  the  dependence  of  the  affection  upon  gonococci  have  caused  the  old  and  disused  prac- 
tice of  employing  very  strong  injections  to  be  revived  by  Neisser,  Picard,  and  others. 
The  former  custom  of  treating  inflammation  of  the  neck  of  the  bladder  by  means  of  Lal- 
lemand’s  porte-caustique  has  been  imitated  by  injecting  a solution  (1  part  to  50)  from  a 
hypodermic  syringe  with  a very  long  nozzle  enclosed  in  a fenestrated  bougie  with  an 
olive-shaped  extremity  (Bulletin  de  Therap.,  xcvii.  580).  It  is  the  best  application  in 
gonorrhoea  of  the  glans  penis,  or  balanitis  ; if  the  prepuce  cannot  be  withdrawn,  a solu- 
tion of  the  salt  may  be  injected.  It  should  be  of  the  strength  of  gr.  xx— xxx  to  f^j,  and 
a similar  one  may  be  used  for  gonorrhoea  in  the  female  and  for  leucorrhoea.  If  the  latter 
affection  has  its  source  in  the  neck  or  body  of  the  uterus,  the  solution  or  the  solid  caustic 
may  be  introduced  into  that  organ.  But  this  is  an  operation  attended  with  serious  risks 
unless  performed  with  the  utmost  caution.  It  has  been  successfully  employed  to  cure 
amenorrhoea  from  uterine  torpor,  a solution  of  1 or  2 grains  to  the  ounce  being  injected 
into  the  cavity  of  the  uterus.  Braun  of  Vienna,  who  is  opposed  to  the  production 
of  abortion  to  relieve  the  vomiting  of  pregnancy,  states  that  he  has  arrested  this  symp- 
tom completely  by  applying  to  the  vaginal  portion  of  the  neck  of  the  uterus  a 10  per 
cent,  solution  of  nitrate  of  silver  (Practitioner,  xxviii.  447). 


ARGENT  I OXIDUM. 


285 


A solution  of  1 or  2 grains  to  the  ounce  injected  into  the  bladder  is  efficient  in  the 
treatment  of  vesical  catarrh.  Solutions  containing  from  20  to  30  grains  of  the  nitrate  to 
an  ounce  of  water  have  been  employed,  but  in  general  weaker  ones  are  preferred.  They 
are  best  administered  in  large  bulk  by  means  of  a gravity  syringe.  Strictures  of  the 
urethra  are  habitually  treated  with  the  solid  [nitrate  applied  by  means  of  the  caustic- 
holder  of  Lallemand.  This  method  is  most  applicable  to  linear  and  spasmodic  strictures. 
The  same  treatment,  applied  to  the  prostatic  portion  of  the  urethra,  has  been  much  in 
vogue  as  a remedy  for  involuntary  seminal  emissions , and  is  often  efficient  where  these 
discharges  depend  upon  debility,  and  therefore  morbid  excitability,  of  the  sexual  organs, 
induced  by  prolonged  self-abuse.  This  method,  which  fell  into  disuse,  doubtless  owing 
to  an  improper  use  of  it,  has  been  revived  with  advantage  by  Keyes  {Med.  Record , 
xxxv.  598)  and  by  Hall,  who  treated  by  its  means  enlarged  prostate  gland  (. Boston  Med. 
and  Surg.  Jour.,  Jan.  1887,  p.  9).  Nitrate  of  silver  may  assist  in  removing  corns  after 
the  hardened  and  thickened  cuticle  has  been  removed  by  prolonged  maceration  in  warm 
water  or  by  a poultice.  As  often  as  the  blackened  lamina  exfoliates  the  operation  should 
be  repeated.  Ascarides  of  the  rectum  are  said  to  be  destroyed  by  injections  of  nitrate 
of  silver  containing  about  3 grains  of  the  salt  to  an  ounce  of  water. 

By  the  mouth  nitrate  of  silver  is  nearly  always  given  in  a pill,  which  should  be 
made  with  some  bitter  vegetable  extract,  but  not  with  bread-crumb,  which  contains 
salt.  But  even  such  precautions  do  not  long  prevent  its  decomposition.  It  should 
be  administered  when  the  pills  are  freshly  made  and  the  stomach  is  empty,  in  order 
to  delay  this  result.  Such,  at  least,  is  the  usual  direction,  but  it  is  pretty  certain  that 
under  no  circumstances  is  the  nitrate  of  silver  absorbed  unchanged.  For  this  reason 
Curci  has  proposed  to  use  in  its  stead  the  double  hyposulphite  of  sodium  and  silver, 
which  is  very  soluble  and  absorbable,  does  not  coagulate  albumen,  and  is  not  irritant. 
The  dose  is  from  Gm.  0.01-0.06  (A  grain  to  1 grain)  three  times  a day.  A convenient 
mode  of  preserving  fused  nitrate  of  silver  is  to  dip  the  stick  into  melted  sealing-wax, 
which  gives  it  a coating  that  protects  it  from  the  air  and  prevents  its  staining  the  fingers. 
A tougher  preparation  than  the  fused  nitrate  is  prepared  by  mixing  with  the  latter  a 
portion  of  oxide  of  silver:  5 parts  of  nitrate  of  silver  melted  with  1 part  of  nitrate  of 
lead  form  another  compound,  of  which  cylinders  are  made  not  liable  to  fracture  and  that 
can  be  cut  like  a lead-pencil.  The  stick  of  lunar  caustic  may  be  pointed  by  rotating  it 
upon  a hot  silver  coin.  The  stain  of  nitrate  of  silver  upon  the  skin,  clothing,  etc.  may 
be  removed  by  a solution  of  cyanide,  and  somewhat  less  perfectly  by  a solution  of  iodide, 
of  potassium  ; or  the  stain  may  be  moistened  with  tincture  of  iodine,  and  then  with 
ammonia,  and  the  colorless  residue  removed  with  water.  A solution  of  1 part  each  of 
ammonium  chloride  and  corrosive  sublimate  in  10  parts  of  distilled  water  will  remove 
the  stains  from  the  skin,  and  from  woven  stuffs  without  injuring  the  fabric.  It  must  be 
kept  in  glass-stoppered  bottles  (Kaetzer).  Flaxseed  mucilage  is  also  recommended  for 
the  same  purpose.  The  proper  antidote  to  nitrate  of  silver  in  the  stomach  is  a large 
draught  of  a weak  solution  of  table-salt,  so  as  to  decompose  the  nitrate  and  induce 
vomiting.  The  resulting  irritation  may  be  allayed  by  milk,  which  should  also  serve  for 
food  until  the  stomach  is  restored.  The  excessive  action  of  the  nitrate  upon  the  fauces, 
vagina,  skin,  etc.  may  also  be  checked  by  salt  and  water. 

ARGENTI  OXIDUM,  TJ.  S.,  Br.— Silver  Oxide. 

Oxidum  argenticum,  Argentum  oxydatum. — Argentic  oxide,  E. ; Oxyde  d’ argent,  Fr. ; 
Silberoxyd , G. 

Formula  Ag20.  Molecular  weight  231.28. 

Silver  oxide  should  be  kept  in  dark  amber-colored  vials,  protected  from  light.  It 
should  not  be  triturated  with  readily  oxidizable  or  combustible  substances,  and  should 
not  be  brought  in  contact  with  ammonia. — U.  S. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Silver  Nitrate  in  crystals  I ounce ; Solution  of  Lime  70 
fluidounces;  Distilled  Water  10  fluidounces.  Dissolve  the  silver  nitrate  in  4 ounces  of 
the  distilled  water,  and,  having  poured  the  solution  into  a bottle  containing  the  solution 
of  lime,  shake  the  mixture  well  and  set  it  aside  to  allow  the  deposit  to  settle.  Draw  off 
the  supernatant  liquid,  collect  the  deposit  on  a filter,  wash  it  with  the  remainder  of  the 
distilled  water,  and  dry  it  at  a heat  not  exceeding  100°  C.  (212°  F.).  Keep  it  in  a 
stoppered  bottle. — Br. 

A similar  process,  but  using  a sufficient  amount  of  solution  of  potassa  in  place  of  the 
lime-water,  was  recognized  by  the  U.  S.  P.  1870.  In  both  cases  the  silver  nitrate  is 


286 


ARGENTI  OXIDUM. 


decomposed,  yielding  silver  oxide,  water,  and  potassium  or  calcium  nitrate,  2AgN03  -f-  2K 
OH  yields  Ag20  + H20  + 2KN03,  and  2AgN03  + Ca(OH)2  yields  Ag20  + H20  + Ca 
(NO})2.  It  is  important  that  these  alkaline  solutions,  in  place  of  which  solution  of  soda 
may  be  used,  should  be  free  from  chlorides,  which  would  precipitate  a portion  of  the 
metal  as  silver  chloride,  and  the  presence  of  carbonate  in  the  potassa  or  soda  solution 
would  cause  the  oxide  to  be  contaminated  with  silver  carbonate.  Silver  oxide  may  be 
likewise  obtained,  according  to  Gregory,  by  boiling  recently  precipitated  moist  silver 
chloride  with  an  excess  of  potassa  solution,  specific  gravity  1.25  to  1.3,  until  a portion  of 
the  sediment  is  completely  soluble  in  diluted  nitric  acid.  To  prevent  the  chloride  from 
caking  together,  Mohr  recommended  the  diffusion  of  it  in  some  water  and  its  gradual 
addition  to  the  boiling  potassa  solution.  . 

Properties- — Prepared  by  precipitation  from  the  nitrate,  silver  oxide  is  an  inodor- 
ous olive-brown  or  blackish  powder,  having  the  spec.  grav.  7.52  and  a disagreeable  metal- 
lic taste.  Obtained  by  Gregory’s  process,  it  is  black  or  bluish-black.  It  is  slightly  solu- 
ble in  3000  parts  (Bineau)  of  water,  the  solution  having  an  alkaline  reaction  and  a metal- 
lic taste  ; the  solution  acquires  a reddish  tint  in  the  light,  and  in  the  presence  of  car- 
bonic acid  becomes  at  first  turbid  and  afterward  clear  again.  The  oxide  is  insoluble  in 
alcohol  and  ether,  forms  carbonate  when  kept  moist,  and  is  slowly  decomposed  by 
exposure  to  light,  and  rapidly  and  completely  by  heating  it  to  300°  C.  (572°  F.),  into 
silver  and  oxygen  ; it  should  therefore  be  well  dried  and  kept  in  dark  amber-colored  bot- 
tles, protected  from  light.  Freshly-prepared  silver  oxide  is  wholly,  after  drying  and 
keeping  only  partly,  soluble  in  ammonia-water,  leaving  a black  powder,  Berthollet' s ful- 
minating silver,  and  the  solution  depositing  black  crystals  of  the  same  compound,  which 
is  violently  explosive.  The  oxide,  moistened  with  creosote  or  when  mixed  with  tannin, 
amorphous  phosphorus,  precipitated  sulphur,  the  sulphides  of  arsenic  and  antimony,  or 
with  other  readily  oxidizable  or  combustible  substances,  renders  these  spontaneously 
inflammable. 

Silver  oxide  is  soluble  in  solution  of  barium  nitrate,  and  yields  with  solutions  of 
chlorides,  bromides,  and  iodides  the  corresponding  silver  salts.  It  combines  with  acids, 
forming  salts,  many  of  which  are  colorless  or  white,  and  become  dark-colored  on  exposure 
to  light,  some  only  in  the  presence  of  organic  matter.  Many  metals,  like  zinc,  lead,  iron, 
copper,  etc.,  precipitate  metallic  silver  from  the  solutions  of  its  salts,  and  a similar  reac- 
tion takes  place  with  phosphorus,  phosphorous  acid,  many  organic  compounds,  and  deox- 
idizing agents. 

The  most  characteristic  reactions  of  silver  salts  are  obtained  with  potassium  chromate, 
which  produces  a deep  purplish-red  precipitate  soluble  in  nitric  acid.  Chlorides  and 
cyanides  yield  white  curdy  precipitates  insoluble  in  dilute  nitric  acid,  soluble  in  ammonia 
and  potassium  cyanide  ; bromides  give  a yellowish-white  precipitate  little  soluble  in 
ammonia ; and  with  iodides  a yellowish  precipitate  is  obtained  which  is  nearly  insoluble 
in  ammonia.  The  lemon-yellow  precipitate  obtained  with  sodium  orthophosphate  is 
readily  soluble  in  ammonia  and  nitric  acid. 

Tests. — Silver  oxide  should  be  completely  dissolved  without  effervescence  in  dilute 
nitric  acid,  (absence  of  carbonate),  and  the  solution,  when  precipitated  by  an  excess  of 
hydrochloric  acid,  should  yield  a filtrate  leaving  no  residue  on  evaporation  to  dryness. 
29  grains  of  the  oxide,  when  heated  to  redness,  leave  a residue  of  metallic  silver  weighing 
27  grains. — Br.  “ 0.5  Gm.  of  the  oxide  when  ignited  in  a porcelain  crucible  should 
yield  0.465  Gm.  (or  93.1  percent.)  of  metallic  silver.” — U.  S. 

Action  and  Uses. — Silver  oxide  appears  to  possess  the  virtues  which  belong 
to  the  nitrate,  but  in  a much  less  degree.  It  is  slightly  caustic,  and  its  prolonged 
internal  use  occasions  a purplish  color  of  the  skin.  It  was  at  one  time  supposed  to  pos- 
sess a peculiar  power  over  passive  haemorrhages,  particularly  from  the  uterus,  but  it  is 
not  to  be  compared  with  several  salts  of  iron,  or  even  with  certain  vegetable  astringents, 
in  this  respect.  It  has  also  been  used  to  check  profuse  sweats.  Owing  to  its  less  caustic 
qualities  it  may  possibly  be  preferable  to  the  nitrate  in  gastralgia,  simple  gastric  nicer, 
and  painful  dyspepsia  depending  upon  irritability  of  the  mucous  membrane  of  the 
stomach.  In  all  local  affections  which  call  for  a mild  stimulant  and  astringent,  such  as 
catarrhal  affections  of  the  nostrils,  throat,  larynx,  vagina,  urethra,  etc.,  a weak  solution 
of  the  silver  nitrate  is  greatly  to  be  preferred.  Dose,  from  0.03-0.13  Gm.  (gr.  1-2) 
two  or  three  times  a day,  incorporated  with  a vegetable  extract.  An  ointment  is  used 
containing  from  2.60-5.20  Gm.  (40  to  80  grains)  of  the  oxide  to  32  Gm.  (^j)  of  lard. 


ARGENTUM. 


287 


ARGENTUM. — Silver. 

Argentum  purificatum , Br. — Refined  Silver , E. ; Argent , Argent  r affine,  Fr. ; Silber , 
Raffinirtes  Silber , G. ; Argento , F.  It. 

Symbol  Ag.  Atomicity  univalent.  Atomic  weight  107.60. 

Origin. — This  metal  was  known  and  in  use  in  the  earliest  historic  period,  and  was 
called  Luna  or  Diana  by  the  alchemists.  It  is  found  pure  and  in  combination  with 
various  metals,  and  with  sulphur,  chlorine,  bromine,  iodine,  etc.,  the  richest  silver  ores 
being  in  the  Western  United  States,  Mexico,  Peru,  Norway,  Russia,  Germany  and 
Spain . 

Preparation. — The  extraction  of  the  metal  is  effected  by  different  processes,  the 
details  varying  considerably  with  the  richness  and  the  composition  of  the  ore.  The 
process  of  amalgamation  is  based  upon  the  formation  of  an  alloy  between  metallic  mer- 
cury and  silver.  The  finely-powdered  ore  is  intimately  mixed  with  sodium  chloride 
and  then  roasted,  when  the  mass  contains,  besides  metallic  silver,  its  chloride,  the  latter 
being  converted  to  the  metallic  state  by  agitation  in  a revolving  cylinder*  with  water  and 
iron.  Mercury  is  now  added  and  the  agitation  continued,  when  the  silver,  gold,  and  cop- 
per unite  with  the  mercury,  the  amalgam  being  obtained  by  subsidence  and  washing,  and 
afterward  separated  into  a liquid  and  solid  portion  by  subjecting  it  to  pressure  in  strong 
linen  or  leather  bags.  By  distilling  the  solid  portion  the  mercury  is  evaporated  off  and 
recovered,  while  the  silver  remains  behind,  containing  copper  and  gold. 

In  the  process  of  cupellation  the  galena  containing  silver  is  first  reduced  and  the  metallic 
lead  allowed  to  cool  slowly,  when  almost  pure  lead  crystallizes,  and  is  removed  by  means 
of  a ladle  or  by  carefully  draining  off  the  liquid  portion,  which  is  rich  in  silver.  This  is 
exposed  to  a red  heat,  and  air  directed  upon  it  by  means  of  a blast,  whereby  the  lead  is 
oxidized  and  the  litharge  blown  off,  leaving  silver  containing  some  lead.  This  is  now 
transferred  to  a dish  made  of  bone-ash  and  heated  to  redness ; the  plumbic  oxide  formed 
is  absorbed  by  the  porous  vessel,  and  finally  almost  chemically  pure  silver  is  left. 

By  the  careful  roasting  of  the  ore  containing  the  metals  as  sulphides  these  are  converted 
into  sulphates,  which  are  treated  with  hot  water;  from  this  solution  the  silver  is  precipi- 
tated by  metallic  copper,  the  latter  being  subsequently  recovered  by  precipitation  with 
iron. 

Many  modifications  of  these  and  some  other  processes  are  employed,  the  silver  obtained 
on  the  large  scale  always  retaining  a small  portion  of  other  metals. 

Chemically  pure  silver  is  obtained  in  various  ways  from  the  chloride,  which  is  readily 
prepared  free  from  other  chlorides  by  precipitating  the  solution  in  nitric  acid  with  hydro- 
chloric acid  and  washing  it  thoroughly  with  water.  The  silver  chloride  is  then  reduced 
by  boiling  it  with  glucose  and  sodium  carbonate ; the  powdered  silver  thus  obtained  is 
well  washed  with  acetic  acid  and  water  and  then  fused.  Or  the  chloride  is  mixed  with 
acidulated  water  and  a rod  of  zinc  introduced,  the  silver  being  afterward  fused  with 
borax  and  saltpeter.  Or  a mixture  of  the  chloride  with  sodium  and  potassium  carbonate 
is  heated,  whereby  silver,  alkali  chlorides,  carbon  dioxide,  and  oxygen  are  formed  ; 
2AgCl  + KNaCO.,  yields  Ag2  + KC1  -j-  NaCl  -f-  C02  -f  O. 

Properties. — Silver  is  a brilliant  white  metal,  very  ductile  and  malleable,  having 
the  specific  gravity  10.47  when  obtained  by  fusion  ; the  pressed  and  the  distilled  silver 
have  a density  of  10.57.  It  may  be  drawn  into  very  fine  wire  and  beaten  into  very  thin 
silver-leaf. \ Argentum  foliatum. — (P.  G.).  It  melts  at  about  1000°  C.  (1832°  F.),  absorbs 
oxygen,  which  on  cooling  is  again  given  off,  but  it  does  not  oxidize  in  contact  with  the 
air  or  at  a red  or  white  heat,  and  distils  at  the  heat  of  the  oxyhydrogen  blast.  It  tarnishes 
superficially  through  the  hydrogen  sulphide  contained  in  the  atmosphere,  and  dissolves 
completely  in  diluted  nitric  acid. 

Various  allotropic  modifications  of  metallic  silver  have  been  obtained  by  treating  solu- 
tions of  silver  salts  with  different  reducing  agents  ; some  of  these  have  been  found  soluble 
in  water,  and  nearly  all  of  them  can  be  reduced  to  powder  by  moderate  trituration.  The 
particular  allotropic  form  appears  to  depend  upon  the  reducing  agent  employed  and  the 
conditions  under  which  reduction  takes  place  ; thus  blue,  lilac,  green,  gold-colored,  and 
reddish-brown  silver  have  been  obtained.  The  usual  methods  followed  are  (1)  reduction 
of  silver  citrate  or  tartrate  by  ferrous  citrate  or  tartrate ; (2)  action  of  dextrin  and  fixed 
alkali  hydroxides  on  silver  nitrate  or  oxide  ; (3)  action  of  tannin  and  fixed  alkali  car- 
bonates on  silver  nitrate  or  carbonate.  More  complete  accounts  of  this  interesting  sub- 
ject will  be  found  in  the  papers  by  M.  Carey  Lea.  (See  Proceed.  A.  P.  A.  for  1890, 
1891,  1892).  * * j v. 


288 


A RM ORA  CIJE  RADIX. 


Tests. — The  solution  of  chemically  pure  silver  in  hot  diluted  nitric  acid,  when  pre- 
cipitated by  hydrochloric  acid,  yields  a filtrate  which  is  not  darkened  by  hydrogen  sul- 
phide, and  on  evaporation  to  dryness  leaves  no  residue. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Metallic  silver  is  employed  for  making  the  official  silver 
compounds,  and  in  the  form  of  silver-leaf  serves  occasionally  as  a coating  for  pills. 

Action  and  Uses. — In  its  metallic  form  silver  possesses  no  direct  medicinal  virtues. 
Its  ductility,  malleability,  and  slight  susceptibility  to  oxidation  fit  it  peculiarly  for  a vast 
number  of  uses  in  surgery. 

ARMORACL33  RADIX,  Br.— Horseradish-Root. 

Raifort , Oran  de  Bretagne , Moutarde  des  moines , Fr.  Cod. ; Meerrettig , G. ; Rabano 
rusticano , Sp. 

The  fresh  root  of  Cochlearia  (Nasturtium,  Fries ) Armoracia,  Linne , s.  Armoracia 
(Cochlearia,  Lamarck')  rusticana,  Gsertner.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 21. 

Nat.  Ord. — Cruciferse,  Alyssineae. 

Origin. — This  perennial  plant  is  indigenous  to  Eastern  Europe,  and  is  naturalized  in 
Western  Europe  and  North  America.  It  has  large  oblong  crenate  or  sometimes  pinnatifid 
root-leaves  on  long  channelled  petioles,  lanceolate  stem-leaves,  and  a long  racemose  inflor- 
escence ; the  flowers  are  white  and  the  ascending  pods  roundish. 

Description. — The  root  attains  a length  of  from  30  to  75  Cm.  (1-2-t  feet)  and  a thick- 
ness of  12  to  25  Mm.  (-|— 1 inch)  ; it  is  cylindrical  in  shape  and  crowned  with  several  some- 
what conical  annulated  heads.  It  is  covered  with  a light  yellowish-brown  corky  layer,  is 
internally  white  and  fleshy,  and  breaks  with  a short  fracture.  The  bark  is  thin,  and  contains 
a number  of  yellow  thick-walled  cells.  The  cambium  forms  a dark-colored  line  ; the  medi- 
tullium  shows  a radiate  arrangement  of  the  small  vascular  bundles,  and  consists  mainly 
of  parenchyma.  A large  central  pith  is  found  in  the  head.  In  its  unbroken  state  it  is 
nearly  inodorous,  but  when  broken  or  bruised  it  has  a very  pungent  odor  and  a sharp 
acrid  taste.  It  is  employed  in  the  fresh  state  only. 

Constituents. — The  volatile  oil  to  which  the  odor  and  taste  of  horseradish  are  due 
has  the  same  chemical  composition  as  oil  of  mustard,  CSN.C3H5,  though  it  differs  from  it 
somewhat  in  odor ; the  crude  oil,  of  which  about  Per  cent,  of  the  weight  of  the  fresh 
root  is  obtained,  is  of  a light-yellow  color ; the  rectified  is  nearly  colorless,  of  1.01  specific 
gravity,  and  becomes  dark-colored  by  age.  It  does  not  pre-exist  in  the  root,  but,  accord- 
ing to  Boutron  and  Fremy  (1840),  is  formed  in  a manner  similar  to  that  of  the  volatile 
oil  of  mustard.  Besides  the  volatile  oil,  Gutret  (1792)  ascertained  the  presence  of  some 
bitter  resin,  extractive,  sugar,  starch,  gum,  albumen,  acetates  and  other  salts,  12.5  per 
cent,  of  lignin,  and  78.1  per  cent,  of  water.  Mutschler  (1878)  found  the  fresh  root  to 
lose  83.45  per  cent,  on  drying,  and  then  to  yield  11.75  per  cent,  of  ash,  consisting  mainly 
of  potassium  and  calcium  salts. 

Action  and  Uses. — Horseradish,  in  the  fresh  state  or  pickled,  has  a very  pungent 
and  acrid  taste,  irritates  the  fauces  and  the  nostrils,  and  causes  a flow  of  tears.  It  is 
a familiar  condiment,  especially  for  beef.  It  excites  a sense  of  warmth  in  the  stomach, 
stimulates  the  appetite,  and  promotes  digestion.  In  excessive  doses  it  occasions  burning 
at  the  epigastrium,  nausea,  and  vomiting.  It  augments  the  urine,  and  probably  the 
perspiration  also,  and  gives  to  the  former  a peculiar  odor.  Externally  applied,  it 
reddens  and  sometimes  blisters  the  skin.  These  qualities  depend  upon  its  volatile 
oil,  which  has  at  first  a sweetish  and  then  an  extremely  acrid  taste  and  a pungent  and 
very  diffusive  odor.  Horseradish  has  had  great  renown  as  a remedy  for  scurvy , and  the 
resemblance  of  its  taste  to  that  of  scurvy-grass  (Cochlearia  officinalis)  is  noteworthy.  In 
the  treatment  of  dropsy  it  has  been  replaced  by  more  potent  drugs.  Nevertheless,  it 
deserves  its  reputation  as  a diuretic  in  all  forms  of  cardiac,  renal,  hepatic,  and  splenic 
dropsy  which  are  characterized  by  a feeble,  atonic  condition  of  the  system.  It  is  advan- 
tageous as  a condiment  in  many  cases  of  dyspepsia  with  feeble  appetite,  oppression  after 
eating,  and  flatulence,  and  in  gastric  debility  attended  wTith  vomiting  even  when  excited 
by  reflex  irritation.  As  a local  irritant  it  is  sometimes  used  to  relieve  toothache , to  stim- 
ulate the  fauces , to  correct  relaxed  states  of  the  mucous  membrane,  and  to  remove  the 
hoarseness  produced  by  congestion  of  the  larynx.  For  these  purposes  it  may  be  employed 
as  a masticatory  or  a strong  infusion  of  it  may  be  used  as  a gargle.  It  may  be  resorted 
to  as  a counter-irritant  in  all  the  cases  in  which  mustard  is  appropriate,  to  arouse  sensi- 
bility, to  relieve  pain,  excite  motility,  etc.  A mixture  of  the  juice  with  vinegar  has  been 
applied  to  remove  freckles  and  tan  ( eplielis ).  The  compound  spirit  of  horseradish  is  a 


ARNICA. 


289 


convenient  addition  to  diuretic  infusions  and  mixtures.  An  infusion  may  be  made  with 
Gm.  32  (^j)  each  of  freshly-grated  horseradish  and  bruised  mustard-seed  in  Gm.  480  (Oj) 
of  hot  water,  macerated  for  two  hours.  A wine-glassful  may  be  taken  three  or  four  times 
a day. 


ARNICA.— Arnica. 

Antique,  Arnica , Fr.  ; Wohlverleih,  Fallkraut,  Arnika , G.  ; Arnica , F.  It.,  Sp. 

Arnica  montana,  Linne.  Woodville,  t.  17  ; Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  158. 

Mat.  Ord. — Compositae,  Senecionideae. 

Officinal  Parts. — 1.  Arnica:  Flores,  U.  S. ; Flores  arnicae,  P.  G. ; Arnica-flow- 
ers, E.  ; Fleurs  d’arnica,  Fr.  ; Arnikabliithen,  G.  The  flowers. 

2.  Arnica  Badix,  U.  S. ; Arnicae  rhizoma,  Br. — Arnica-root,  E. ; Bacine  d’arnica, 
Fr.  ; Arnikawurzel,  G. — The  rhizome  and  rootlets. 

Origin. — This  species  of  arnica  is  indigenous  to  Europe,  growing  upon  the  mountains 
of  Switzerland  and  Germany  and  farther  north  in  the  plains.  It  is  likewise  met  with  in 
Northern  Asia  and  in  the  northwestern  part  of  America.  It  bears  a tuft  of  ovate  or 
oblong-obtuse  radical  leaves  with  a nearly  entire  and  ciliate  margin,  and  produces  a stem 
about  25  to  30  Cm.  (10  to  12  inches)  high,  with  a few  lanceolate  leaves  and  a few 
branches,  each  of  which  bears  one  flower.  The  flowers  appear  in  May,  and  on  drying 
lose  about  80  per  cent,  of  their  weight. 


Fig.  31. 


Arnica:  transverse  section  of  rhizome,  nat-  Arnica  montana,  Linne:  ray-  and  Arnica:  section  through  rootlet 
ural  size  and  magnified  10  diam.  disk-floret.  magnified  25  diam. 


Description. — 1.  The  Bhizome.  It  is  horizontal,  somewhat  contorted,  5 to  7 Cm. 
(2  or  3 inches)  long,  and  3 or  4 Mm.  (£  or  £ inch)  or  less  in  diameter,  longitudinally 
wrinkled,  uneven,  and  rough  from  the  scars  of  the  decayed  stems  and  leaves.  Its  color 
externally  is  dark-brown  ; the  rather  thick  bark  has  about  one-eighth  the  diameter  of  the 
rhizome,  is  internally  whitish,  and  contains  a circle  of  brown-yellow  resin-cells.  The 
yellowish  wood  forms  broad  wedge-shaped  bundles  and  encloses  a large  central  spongy 
pith.  The  numerous  rootlets  issue  from  the  lower  side  of  the  rhizome,  are  5 to  10  Cm. 
(2  to  4 inches)  long,  thin  and  fragile,  and  consist  of  a thick  bark  and  a thin  cylindrical 
cord  of  yellowish  wood,  which  is  surrounded  by  a circle  of  resin-cells. 

Arnica  root  is  collected  in  the  spring,  and  is  occasionally  found  in  the  market  with  the 
radical  leaves,  which  should  be  removed  when  used  for  medicinal  purposes.  It  has  a 
faintly  aromatic  odor  and  a rather  persistent  acrid  taste. 

2.  The  Flowers.  The  heads,  which  are  from  25  to  50  Mm.  (1  to  2 inches)  in  diam- 
eter, are  surrounded  by  a campanulate  cylindrical  involucre  consisting  of  a double  row 
of  imbricated  equal  and  hairy  scales.  The  slightly  convex,  finely-pitted,  and  chaffy 
receptacle  is  about  6 Mm.  (I  inch)  in  diameter,  and  bears  one  row  of  fifteen  to  twenty 
pistillate  bright  yellow,  parallel,  ten-veined,  and  three-toothed  ligulate  ray-florets  about 
25  Mm.  (one  inch)  in  length,  and  many  perfect  tubular  five-toothed  disk-florets.  The 
brown  and  hairy  akenes  are  slender,  spindle-shaped,  obtusely  five-angled,  brown,  short- 
hairy,  about  6 Mm.  (I  inch)  long,  and  are  crowned  by  a pappus  consisting  of  a single 
row  of  denticulate  gray  hairs  about  8 Mm.  (£  inch)  in  length.  The  odor  of  the  flowers 


290 


ARNICA. 


is  feebly  aromatic  and  their  taste  acrid  and  bitter.  The  German  Pharmacopoeia  directs 
the  removal  of  the  involucre  and  receptacle.  The  flowers,  and  more  particularly  the 
receptacle,  are  often  attacked  by  the  black  larvae  of  the  arnica-fly,  Trypeta  arnicivora, 
Loew .,  which  must  be  removed.  The  powder  of  arnica-flowers  is  irritant  and  sternu- 
tatory. 

Constituents. — Besides  gum,  wax,  and  salts  the  root  and  flowers  contain  two  differ- 
ent volatile  oils.  The  dry  root  yields  about  J to  1 per  cent,  of  volatile  oil,  of  nearly  the 
density  of  water,  and  isobutyric  acid,  with  small  quantities  of  formic  and  angelic  acid ; 
old  root  yields  more  acids  and  less  volatile  oil  than  fresh  root.  The  volatile  oil,  which 
boils  between  214°  and  263°  C.  (417°  and  505°  F.),  is  remarkable  for  containing  at  least 
three  rare  ethers — phloryl-isobutyrate,  a phlorol-methylic  ether,  and,  in  largest  proportion, 
the  dimethylic  ether  of  thymo-hydroquinone  (Sigel,  1873).  The  name  of  arnicin  has 
been  applied  to  different  principles  found  in  the  root  and  flowers.  Pavesi’s  arnicin  (1859), 
obtained  by  the  process  for  preparing  santonin,  is  a dark-yellow,  sticky  resin  of  a dis- 
agreeable bitter  taste,  which  is  not  freely  soluble  in  alcohol  and  ether,  but  readily  in 
alkalies,  from  which  solutions  it  is  again  precipitated  by  acids.  Bastick’s  arnicine  (1851) 
was  obtained  by  exhausting  the  flowers  with  alcohol  acidulated  with  sulphuric  acid,  treat- 
ing the  tincture  with  an  excess  of  lime,  adding  to  the  filtrate  sufficient  sulphuric  acid, 
evaporating,  diluting  with  water,  filtering,  neutralizing  with  potassium  carbonate,  again 
filtering,  treating  the  liquid  with  excess  of  potassium  carbonate,  and  agitating  with 
ether,  on  the  evaporation  of  which  arnicine  is  left.  It  is  stated  to  have  a bitter  taste 
and  alkaline  reaction,  and  to  yield  with  acids  crystallizable  salts.  The  arnicin  of  Walz 
(1861)  is  a golden-yellow  amorphous  acrid  mass,  which  is  slightly  soluble  in  water  and 
soluble  in  alkaline  liquids,  in  alcohol,  and  in  ether.  It  may  be  prepared  from  the  flowers, 
which  contain  it  in  larger  proportion  than  the  root,  by  passing  the  tincture  through 
animal  charcoal,  evaporating,  and  treating  the  residue  with  ether,  which  dissolves  arnicin 
and  fat,  the  former  of  which  is  afterward  dissolved  by  alcohol  of  0.85  specific  gravity.  It 
is  also  obtained  by  precipitating  the  watery  decoction  with  tannin,  exhausting  the  pre- 
cipitate with  alcohol,  and  removing  the  tannin  by  oxide  of  lead,  and  the  lead  by  hydrogen 
sulphide.  By  decomposition  with  alkalies  and  acids,  resin,  oil,  and  a volatile  acid  have 
been  obtained. 

Arnica  root  and  flowers  appear  also  to  contain  several  resins,  at  least  one  of  which  is 
insoluble  in  ether  and  has  an  acrid  taste.  The  root  contains  10  per  cent,  of  inulin, 
according  to  Dragendorff  (1870). 

Adulterations  and  Substitutions. — The  flowers  are  said  to  be  occasionally 
adulterated  with  other  yellow  composite  flowers,  but  are  easily  distinguished  by  the 
characters  given  above : those  of  calendula  and  anthemis  are  destitute  of  pappus ; those 
of  inula,  doronicum,  and  senecio  have  a naked  receptacle ; and  those  of  scorzonera  and 
tragopogon  have  all  the  florets  ligulate.  The  rhizomes  and  roots  of  other  Composite 
which  are  said  to  be  occasionally  collected  by  mistake  for  arnica-root  differ  from  it  in 
physical  characters ; there  is  no  difficulty  in  distinguishing  the  latter  from  the  root  of 
Geum  urbanum,  noticed  as  an  adulteration  by  E.  M.  Holmes  (1874). 

Action  and  Uses. — The  local  action  both  of  the  root  and  the  flowers  of  arnica  is 
irritant,  but  that  of  the  flowers  is  the  more  powerful.  The  tincture,  used  for  insignif- 
icant injuries,  has  occasioned  inflammation  and  vesication.  Fayrer  relates  that  six  days 
after  having  applied  it  to  his  wrist  for  a sprain  the  part  was  slightly  stung  by  a nettle ; 
immediately  an  inflammation  of  the  skin  arose,  limited  accurately  to  the  previous  contact 
of  the  arnica,  but  causing  inflammation  of  the  lymphatics  of  the  limb  (. Practitioner , xvi. 
52).  Numerous  analogous  examples  might  be  cited.  (Compare,  Practitioner , xxxiii.  45  ; 
Cartier,  Therap.  Gaz .,  viii.  477  ; Cagny,  ib .,  ix.  52.)  Internally,  a strong  infusion  irri- 
tates the  throat,  produces  a burning  pain  in  the  stomach,  tends  to  excite  vomiting, 
increases  the  frequency  of  the  heart’s  action  and  respiration,  and  the  secretions  of  the 
skin,  bronchia,  and  kidneys,  and  occasions  headache,  giddiness,  inability  to  stand  or 
walk,  and  disturbed  sleep.  These  symptoms  are  followed  by  depression  and  exhaustion. 
After  excessive  doses  the  phenomena  of  stimulation  are  not  observed,  but  in  their  stead 
vomiting,  purging,  giddiness,  oppression,  debility,  cold  extremities,  frequent  pulse,  dilated 
pupils,  muscular  spasms,  and  collapse,  with  infrequent  pulse.  Death  is  reported  to  have 
occurred  in  the  case  of  a man  who  drank  from  2 to  2\  ounces  of  the  tincture  ( Lancet , 
July  10,  1880).  The  nauseant  properties  are  said  to  belong  to  the  flowers  rather  than  to 
the  root. 

The  conclusions  respecting  the  operation  of  arnica  to  be  drawn  from  the  foregoing 
phenomena  are  essentially  the  same  as  those  which  its  use  as  a medicine  indicates.  Its 


ARNOTTA. 


291 


vogue  has  always  been  greatest  in  the  treatment  of  affections  that  require  stimulation. 
Especially  has  it  been  reputed  to  be  an  efficient  stimulant  in  all  diseases  presenting  the 
typhoid  state,  in  the  continued  fevers  which  most  frequently  assume  that  condition,  and 
in  the  various  inflammations  which  it  may  complicate.  As  a disease  which  partakes 
of  both  natures,  and  which  often  presents  the  typhoid  type,  dysentery  may  be  mentioned, 
and  arnica  is  said  to  have  been  efficient  in  its  treatment.  Its  stimulant  local  action  has 
been  thought  sufficiently  powerful  to  suggest  its  use  in  liniments  and  tinctures  applied  by 
friction  to  paralyzed  muscles.  In  Germany  this  action  has  long  been  popularly  employed 
for  the  relief  of  local  paralyses,  bruises,  sprains,  abrasions,  slight  wounds , etc.;  whence  its 
name  Fallkraut , which  may  be  translated  accident-plant.  It  is  alleged  that  only  the  infu- 
sion or  decoction,  and  not  the  tincture,  should  be  used  for  these  purposes — a statement 
which  popular  experience  would  seem  to  contradict.  Frictions  with  the  tincture  need 
not,  however,  prevent  the  more  permanent  influence  of  fomentations  made  with  the 
flowers  steeped  in  water  or  vinegar.  Powdered  arnica-flowers  are  said  to  limit  the  prog- 
ress of  mortification.  1 part  of  an  extract  of  fresh  arnica-flowers  and  2 parts  of  honey, 
thickened  with  an  inert  powder  if  necessary,  and  kept  applied  to  boils,  is  said  to  arrest 
their  development  at  any  stage  (Planat,  Amer.  Jour,  of  Med.  Sci .,  April,  1878,  p.  545). 
The  watery  preparations  are,  however,  more  suitable  internally  in  the  cases  above  alluded 
to  of  febrile  disease,  and  also  in  those  of  exhaustion  from  shock  ; but  their  use  should 
not  prevent  the  more  serviceable  employment  of  alcoholic  stimulants.  The  dose  of  the 
powdered  root  may  be  stated  to  be  from  Gm  0.60-2.00  (10  to  30  grains).  A decoction 
may  be  made  with  Gm.  8 (^ij)  of  the  root  in  Gm.  288  (f§ix)  of  water,  reduced  by  boiling 
to  Gm.  192  (f^vj).  Of  this  the  dose  is  a tablespoonful  or  more  every  two  hours.  An 
infusion  is  made  with  Gm.  4—30  (3j-,^j)  of  the  flowers  in  Gm.  192  (f^vj)  of  water.  Dose , 
a tablespoonful  or  more. 

ARNOTTA. — Annota. 

Orellana,  Orleana. — Rocou,  Terre  de  la  Nouvelle-  Orleans,  F. ; Orlean,  G. ; Achiotillo,  Sp. 

A coloring  matter  obtained  from  the  seeds  of  Bixa  Orellana,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Bixacese. 

Origin  and  Preparation. — This  medium-sized  tree  is  indigenous  to  tropical 
America,  and  produces  roundish,  heart-shaped,  or  subreniform  capsules,  containing 
numerous  obovate,  angular,  whitish  seeds,  which  are  about  3 Mm.  (4  inch)  long 
and  are  covered  with  a dark-red  pulp.  The  seeds  are  soaked  or  allowed  to  ferment  in 
water,  rubbed  between  the  hands  and  upon  a sieve,  crushed,  and  finally  completely 
mashed  and  again  washed  with  water.  The  coloring  matter  subsides  and  is  formed  into 
cakes ; the  water  likewise  contains  a coloring  matter.  (See  paper  by  Th.  Peckolt,  in 
Amer.  Jour.  Phar.,  1859,  p.  360.)  The  importation  of  annotta-cake  and  seed  into  this 
country  has  increased  from  160,500  pounds  in  1876  to  412,610  pounds  in  1882. 

Description. — Annotta,  also  called  annatto,  exists  in  cakes  which  are  either  plastic 
or  hard,  of  a nearly  blood-red  color,  becoming  red-brown  on  exposure,  of  a peculiar  odor 
and  disagreeable  saline  and  bitter  taste.  It  is  nearly  insoluble  in  water,  but  colors  it 
yellow,  and  dissolves  almost  completely  in  alcohol,  ether,  fixed  oils,  and  alkalies,  with  an 
orange-red  or  dark-red  color. 

Constituents. — According  to  the  investigations  of  John  Kerndt  (1849),  Piccard 
(1861),  Mylius  (1864),  and  W.  Stein  (1867),  annotta  contains  orellin,  a yellow  coloring 
matter  soluble  in  water,  and  bright  red  bixin,  which  is  not  freely  soluble  in  cold  alcohol 
and  ether,  but  readily  dissolves  in  alkalies.  The  latter  is  colored  blue  by  strong  sul- 
phuric acid,  and  with  nitric  acid  produces  a yellow  body  of  a musk-like  odor.  Its  com- 
position is,  according  to  Stein,  C15H1804,  according  to  Etti  (1878),  C28H3405.  Annotta 
contains  also  a fatty  acid,  a turpentine-like  body,  and  various  other  compounds.  A.  E. 
Ebert  (1868)  obtained  from  the  air-dry  seeds  5.15  per  cent,  of  ash,  the  chief  constituents 
of  which  are  potassa,  silica,  and  phosphoric  acid. 

Uses. — It  is  to  some  extent  employed  as  a dyestuff  for  silk  and  other  fabrics,  and  for 
the  coloring  of  plasters  and  ointments,  as  well  as  of  butter  and  cheese.  For  butter- 
cobring annotta  is  digested  with  alcohol  until  completely  disintegrated,  and  then  heated 
with  four  or  five  times  its  weight  of  olive  or  other  bland  oil,  or  1 part  of  extract  is  used 
to  10  parts  of  oil ; for  cheese-coloring  a little  turmeric  is  used. 

Adulterations  with  ochre,  brickdust,  sand,  gypsum,  and  the  like  are  discovered  by  their 
insolubility  in  hot  alcohol. 


292 


ARSENI  IODIDUM. 


ARSENI  IODIDUM,  Z7.  -Arsenic  Iodide. 

Arsenii  iodidum , Br. ; Ioduretum  arseniosum , Arsenicum  ( Arsenum ) jodatum  ; Arsenici 
iodidum,  U.  S.  1870. — Iodide  of  arsenium,  Arsenous  iodide , E. ; Iodure  d1  arsenic,  Fr. ; 
Arsentrijodid , G. 

Formula  Asl3.  Molecular  weight  454.49. 

Preparation. — Triturate  in  a mortar  finely-powdered  metallic  arsenic  75  grains  and 
iodine  380  grains  until  they  are  thoroughly  mixed.  Put  the  mixture  into  a small  flask 
or  test-tube  loosely  stoppered,  and  heat  it  very  gently  until  liquefaction  occurs.  Then 
incline  the  vessel  in  different  directions,  in  order  that  any  portion  of  the  iodine  which 
may  have  condensed  on  its  surface  may  be  returned  into  the  melted  mass.  Lastly,  pour 
the  melted  iodide  on  a porcelain  slab,  and  when  it  is  cold  break  it  into  pieces  and  keep  it 
in  a well-stoppered  bottle.  This  is  the  process  of  the  U.  S.  P.  1870,  with  the  iodine 
slightly  increased  in  quantity,  so  as  to  correspond  with  the  combining  weights  of  the  two 
elements,  the  union  of  which  is  readily  effected  by  the  aid  of  heat.  The  salt  may  be 
prepared  in  an  ordinary  prescription-vial  placed  in  a sand-bath ; after  the  fused  mass  has 
cooled  the  vial  is  broken  to  obtain  the  compound ; loss  of  iodine  is  thereby  avoided. 
Although  sufficiently  pure  for  medicinal  purposes,  it  is  difficult  to  produce  in  this  way  a 
uniform  chemical  compound,  which,  according  to  Berzelius,  is  obtained  on  subjecting  the 
mechanical  mixture  to  sublimation  from  a retort  the  body  of  which  is  completely  imbed- 
ded in  sand.  Or  the  iodine  is  dissolved  in  carbon  disulphide ; the  solution  is  gently 
heated,  and,  after  the  gradual  addition  of  the  powdered  arsenic,  is  digested  until  the  purple 
color  of  free  iodine  has  disappeared  ; the  clear  solution  is  decanted  if  necessary,  and  the 
solvent  distilled  or  evaporated,  when  the  arsenous  iodide  is  obtained  in  crystals  and  may 
be  recrystallized  from  alcohol.  Or,  according  to  Bamberger  and  Phillip,  it  may  be  made 
by  mixing  a hot  solution  of  arsenous  acid  in  hydrochloric  acid  with  a concentrated  solution 
of  potassium  iodide,  and  washing  the  precipitate  with  hydrochloric  acid.  sp.  gr.  1.12. 

Properties. — Obtained  by  fusion,  arsenic  iodide  is  a glossy  orange-red  crystalline 
mass ; if  made  by  sublimation  or  crystallization  it  appears  in  shining  brick-red  or  orange- 
red  hexagonal  scales,  It  has  an  iodine-like  odor  and  taste,  and  slowly  gives  off  iodine  on 
exposure  to  the  air.  Its  density  is  4.39.  It  is  soluble,  with  a neutral  reaction  and  with- 
out decomposition,  in  water,  alcohol,  ether,  and  carbon  disulphide,  but  is  gradually  decom- 
posed on  being  boiled  with  water  or  alcohol.  It  is  soluble  in  7 parts  of  water  and  in  30 
parts  of  alcohol  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  It  is  difficultly  soluble  in  hydrochloric  acid.  “ The 
aqueous  solution  has  a yellow  color,  is  neutral  to  litmus  paper,  and  on  standing  gradually 
decomposes  into  arsenous  and  hydriodic  acids.  On  passing  hydrogen  sulphide  through 
the  solution  a lemon-yellow  precipitate  is  thrown  down.  If  the  salt  be  heated  with 
diluted  nitric  acid  vapor  of  iodine  - is  given  off.” — U.  S. 

Tests. — The  purity  is  ascertained  by  the  complete  solubility  of  the  salt  in  water  and 
alcohol,  and  by  its  volatilizing  on  the  application  of  heat  without  leaving  any  residue. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  action  of  this  compound  in  small  doses  may  be  called 
alterative  ; in  large  doses  it  is  an  irritant  poison. 

The  continued  use  of  from  Gm.  0.004-0.005  (gr.  -JL.  to  T?)  twice  a day  occasions  per- 
spiration, with  dryness  of  the  throat  and  intestines ; sometimes  headache  is  complained 
of,  but  neuralgic  pain  in  the  head,  if  it  previously  existed,  may  disappear.  At  one  time 
it  was  supposed  on  very  good  authority  to  possess  the  power  of  preventing  the  devel- 
opment of  scirrhous  tumors  of  the  breast,  but  continued  observation  has  not  confirmed 
the  belief,  although  it  has  shown  that  when  such  tumors  affect  persons  of  a feeble  and 
cachectic  constitution  their  progress  may  be  retarded  by  the  improvement  of  the  general 
health  under  the  use  of  this  medicine.  Its  influence  upon  certain  cutaneous  diseases  is 
more  demonstrable,  particularly  upon  psoriasis,  lepra,  chronic  eczema,  and  tinea  capitis ; 
but  as  identical  results  are  obtained  from  arsenic  alone,  the  influence  of  the  iodine  in  the  com- 
bination is  very  questionable.  The  same  remark  applies  to  its  use  in  lupus  and  tuberculosis . 
The  quantity  of  iodine  in  the  small  dose  of  the  compound  administered  (Jq  to  ^ grain) 
is  too  minute  to  be  considered  efficient.  Indeed,  most  of  the  benefits  said  to  have  been 
derived  from  it  were  in  reality  obtained  from  mixtures  of  Fowler’s  arsenical  solution 
with  iodide  of  potassium  in  true  medicinal  doses.  (See  Acidum  Arseniosum.)  The 
dose  of  iodide  of  arsenic  should  at  first  not  exceed  Gm.  0.003  ( ^ grain)  three  times  a 
day,  and  it  should  gradually  be  increased  until  derangement  of  the  stomach  or  dryness 
of  the  throat  denotes  it  full  effect.  It  is  best  given  in  solution.  An  ointment  contain- 
ing Gm.  0.20  (gr.  iij)  in  Gm.  32.00  (gj)  of  lard  has  been  used  as  a local  application  in 
the  disease  above  mentioned.  Where  the  skin  is  broken  it  should  not  be  employed. 


ARSEN  UM. 


293 


ARSENUM. — Arsenic. 

Arsenium , Arsenicum. — Arsenic,  Fr.  ; Arsen,  ArseniJc , G. 

Symbol  As.  Atomicity  trivalent  and  quinquivalent.  Atomic  weight  74.9. 

Origin. — Arsenic,  which  is  classed  by  some  chemists  with  the  metals,  by  others  with 
the  non-metallic  elements,  is  widely  diffused  in  nature,  but  is  found  usually  in  small 
quantities.  It  exists  in  the  uncombined  state  as  native  arsenic , known  also  under  the 
name  of  cobaltum  or  flystone , but  more  frequently  in  combination  with  sulphur  and  sul- 
phides, as  red  orpiment  or  realgar , As2S2 ; yellow  orpiment,  As2S3 ; arsenical  py  rites  or  mis- 
pi.ckel , FeS2.FeAs2 ; cobalt-glance , CoS2.CoAs2 ; tin-white  cobalt , CoAs2 ; and  in  other  min- 
erals. It  was  first  obtained  in  the  metallic  state  by  Albertus  Magnus  in  the  thirteenth 
century  by  heating  together  white  arsenic  and  soap. 

Preparation. — On  heating  arsenical  pyrites  in  earthen  cylinders  most  of  the  arsenic 
volatilizes  and  is  collected  in  iron  receivers,  where  it  congeals.  FeS2.FeAs2  yields 
As  -|-  2FeS.  A portion  of  the  arsenic  remains  behind  with  the  iron  sulphide,  and  may 
be  recovered  as  arsenous  acid  by  roasting.  The  crude  metallic  arsenic  should  be  purified 
by  mixing  it  with  charcoal  and  subliming  at  the  heat  of  a sand-bath.  It  is  obtained  on 
a small  scale  by  mixing  arsenous  acid  with  half  its  weight  of  powdered  charcoal,  intro- 
ducing the  mixture  into  a crucible,  covering  it  with  a layer  of  granular  charcoal  2 or  3 
inches  thick,  and  cementing  over  the  crucible  in  an  inverted  position  another  one  having 
a small  hole  drilled  through  the  bottom  ; on  heating  the  crucible  the  arsenous  acid  is 
reduced  to  arsenic,  which  sublimes,  carbon  monoxide  escaping ; As203+  C3  yields  As2  + 
3CO. 

Properties. — It  is  a brittle,  steel-gray,  crystalline  mass  having  a bright  metallic 
lustre,  gradually  changing  on  exposure  to  the  air  to  a grayish-black  color  devoid  of  gloss. 
Its  specific  gravity  is  5.73  to  5.96.  Heated  in  a sealed  tube,  it  fuses,  but  if  heated  in 
the  open  air  it  volatilizes,  without  melting,  at  a temperature  of  180°  C.  (356°  F.),  a 
portion  of  it  being  oxidized  to  arsenous  acid.  Its  vapor  has  a yellow  color  and  a garlic- 
like odor.  On  immersing  the  metal  in  water  the  air  dissolved  in  the  latter  oxidizes  a 
portion  to  arsenous  oxide,  which  explains  the  use  of  cobaltum  as  a fly-poison.  Metallic 
arsenic  is  insoluble  in  simple  solvents,  but  dissolves  on  heating  in  some  fixed  oils,  and 
unites  readily  with  most  of  the  metals,  with  sulphur,  chlorine,  iodine,  and  other  elements. 

Compounds  of  Arsenic. — Hydrogen  arsenide  or  arsine,  AsH3,  is  a colorless 
gas  of  a garlic-like  odor  and  the  density  2.695,  and  when  ignited  burning  with  a bluish 
flame,  yielding  water  and  arsenous  oxide  ; but  on  cooling  the  flame,  by  holding  in  it  a 
piece  of  porcelain  or  glass,  metallic  arsenic  is  deposited.  Arsenous  hydride  is  generated 
in  applying  Marsh’s  and  several  other  tests  for  arsenic.  (See  pages  27,  28.) 

Arsenic  oxide,  As205,  is  a white  mass  melting  at  a low-red  heat,  and  at  a higher 
heat  decomposed  into  arsenous  oxide  and  oxygen  ; in  damp  air  or  in  contact  with  water 
it  deliquesces  to  an  oily-looking  liquid,  which  is  a concentrated  solution  of  arsenic  acid , 
II3As04.  This  is  poisonous,  however,  in  a less  degree  than  arsenous  oxide  ; the  concen- 
trated solution  is  corrosive.  It  is  much  employed  in  the  manufacture  of  certain  aniline 
colors  and  for  other  purposes  in  the  arts.  Pyroarsenic  and  meta-arsenic  acids  are  anal- 
ogous to  the  corresponding  phosphoric  acids,  but  on  dissolving  in  water  yield  at  once  the 
above  ortho-arsenic  acid. 

Arsenous  chloride,  As2C13,  is  a colorless,  oily,  very  poisonous  liquid,  which  has  the 
specific  gravity  2.205,  boils  at  134°  C.  (273.2  F.),  and  is  by  water  decomposed  into  HC1 
and  As203.  (See  Liquor  Acidi  Arsenosi.) 

Arsenous  bromide,  As2Br3,  is  formed  from  the  two  elements  in  the  presence  of  car- 
bon disulphide,  like  the  iodide.  It  is  colorless,  crystalline,  of  a peculiar  odor,  has  the 
density  3.86,  melts  at  above  20°  C.  (68°  F.),  and  boils  at  202°  C.  (428°  F.).  It  is 
deliquescent,  and  by  water  decomposed  into  As203  and  HBr. 

Three  sulphides  of  arsenic  are  known,  but  the  pentasulphide,  As2S5,  is  of  no  practical 
importance. 

-Realgar,  or  red  orpiment,  As2S2,  is  a mineral  which  consists  of  handsome  orange- 
red  scales.  It  is  made  by  fusing  together  5 parts  of  arsenous  acid  and  3 parts  of  sul- 
phur, when  sulphur  dioxide  is  given  off.  It  burns  with  a blue  flame,  but  when  mixed 
with  potassium  nitrate  with  a white  flame  ; a mixture  for  fireworks  and  signal-lights  con- 
sists of  red  orpiment  2 parts,  sulphur  7 parts,  potassium  nitrate  24  to  26  parts. 

Orpiment,  King’s  yellow,  or  auripigmentum,  As2S3,  is  likewise  a mineral,  crystal- 
lizes in  prisms  or  scales,  and  is  artificially  obtained  by  fusing  together  5 parts  of  arsenous 
acid  with  4 to  5 parts  of  sulphur.  It  was  formerly  much  employed  as  a pigment ; at 


294 


ARUM. 


present  it  is  used  in  fireworks,  and  occasionally,  mixed  with  considerable  lime,  as  a 
depilatory. 

The  medicinal  action  and  uses  of  arsenic  are  treated  of  under  Acidum  Arsenosum. 

ARUM. — Indian  Turnip. 

Wake-robin,  Dragon-root , E. ; Gouet  a feuilles , Fr.  ; Dreiblattriger  Aron , G. ; Aro,  Sp. 

The  tuber  (corm)  of  Arisaema  (Arum,  Linne ) triphyllum,  Torrey. 

Nat.  Ord. — Araceae. 

Origin. — The  plant  is  indigenous  to  North  America,  produces  one  or  two  leaves, 
which  are  divided  into  three  elliptical-ovate  acuminate  leaflets,  and  a green  or  dark-purple 
often  striped  spathe  which  is  convolute  at  the  base,  bent  hood-like  at  the  apex,  and 
encloses  the  club-shaped  spadix,  having  the  flowers  sessile  at  the  base.  The  fruit  is  a 
scarlet  berry. 

Description. — The  tuber  is  of  a depressed  globular  shape,  with  a flat  and  rugose 
base  and  slightly  conical  above.  The  numerous  simple  rootlets  are  attached  to  the  upper 
half  of  the  tuber,  leaving  the  base  free.  It  is  of  a brown-gray  color  externally,  and 
internally  white,  with  scattered  vascular  bundles.  It  is  inodorous,  and  has  a burning 
acrid  taste,  which  it  retains,  to  some  extent,  for  a long  time  if  carefully  dried  and 
preserved. 

The  tuberous  rhizome  of  the  European  Arum  maculatum,  Linne , or  cuckoo-pint , is  sim- 
ilar in  appearance,  but  of  an  oblong  shape,  and  larger  than  the  former ; in  commerce  it  is 
usually  found  in  transverse  slices  or  pieces  which  are  of  a mealy  aspect.  The  starch  was 
formerly  prepared  from  it  on  the  isle  of  Portland  on  the  south  coast  of  England,  and 
used  as  Portland  arrow-root. 

Constituents. — The  two  tubers  are  most  likely  similar  in  composition,  but  their 
acrid  principle  has  not  been  obtained  in  an  isolated  state.  The  European  arum  has  been 
analyzed  by  Bucholz  and  Enz,  and  the  American  by  I).  S.  Jones,  who  proved  the  presence 
of  starch,  sugar,  gum,  albumen,  resin,  fat,  and  extractive,  besides  the  volatile  acrid  prin- 
ciple, which  is  soluble  in  ether.  Enz  (1858)  obtained  also  saponin,  and  Bird  believes 
that  a volatile  alkaloid  may  be  present. 

Allied  Plants. — Colocasia  esculenta,  Schott , s.  Caladium  (Arum,  Linn£)  esculentum,  Ventenat , 
and  Colocasia  antiquorum,  Schott , s.  Arum  Colocasia,  Linne , are  extensively  cultivated  in  many 
tropical  and  subtropical  countries  under  the  name  of  cocco  or  eddoes , the  thick  starchy  rhizomes 
being  used  for  food.  These  and  several  other  species  are  often  seen  under  cultivation  in  our 
gardens  for  their  ornamental  foliage.  All  are  more  or  less  acrid  in  the  fresh  state. 

Richardia  (Calla,  Linne ) .ethiopica,  Kunth,  Egyptian  calla,  a well-known  ornamental  plant, 
has  likewise  an  acrid  and  farinaceous  tuber. 

Allied  Drugs. — Tonga.  A drug  introduced  under  this  name  from  the  Fiji  Islands  was  found 
by  A.  IV.  Gerrard  (1880)  to  be  a mixture  of  bark,  leaves,  and  woody  fibre  tied  into  bundles  by 
means  of  the  inner  bark  of  the  cocoanut  tree.  E.  M.  Holmes  (1880)  referred  the  fibrous  material 
to  Rhaphidophora  vitiensis,  Seemann ; F.  von  Mueller  ascertained  this  to  be  correct.  The  plant 
belongs  to  the  natural  order  of  Araceae,  and  is  a creeper  having  a stem  from  the  size  of  a quill 
to  an  inch  or  more  in  diameter.  The  scraped  stem  is  used,  and  contains  prismatic  rhaphides 
and  starch,  the  latter  resembling  arum  starch.  Gerrard  found  potassium  chloride  and  a volatile 
alkaloid,  tongine,  which  has  not  been  further  examined. 

The  bark  comes  from  Premna  taitensis,  Be  Candolle,  nat.  ord.  Verbenacese,  which  is  shrubby  or 
a large  tree ; the  inner  bark  is  sweet  and  slightly  astringent,  and,  according  to  Gerrard,  contains 
a little  volatile  oil,  sugar,  pectin,  and  fat. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  juice  of  the  fresh  plant  applied  to  the  skin  may  cause 
vesication,  and  when  a portion  of  the  corm  is  chewed,  it  leaves  in  the  mouth  and  fauces  a 
burning  and  acrid  taste.  The  acrid  principle,  however,  is  dissipated  by  drying  and  by  heat. 
In  a partially  dry  state  the  corm  has  been  used  to  relieve  flatulence  and  colic  and  as  a 
remedy  for  chronic  bronchitis , but  its  virtues  are  not  very  decided.  Its  powder  made  into 
a paste  with  honey  or  syrup  has  been  used  for  aphthous  sores  of  the  mouth,  and  an 
ointment  formed  by  stewing  the  fresh  root  with  lard  has  been  applied  to  ringworm  and 
other  local  cutaneous  affections.  The  dose  of  the  powder  is  stated  to  be  Gm.  0.60  (gr.  x) 
or  more.  It  may  be  administered  in  honey  or  syrup. 

In  1880,  Ringer  and  Murrell  employed  a liquid  extract  of  tonga  in  the  treatment  of 
neuralgia  with  “ gratifying  results.”  They  gave  half-ounce  doses  at  intervals  of  half  an 
hour,  and  repeated  them  again  in  two  hours,  without  producing  any  effect  except  slight 
drowsiness  ( Lancet , March  6,  1880).  One  or  two  cases  reported  by  Wallace  gave  similar 
results,  although  he  prescribed  only  half-drachm  doses  of  the  fluid  extract  (Med.  Record , 
xxii.  91);  and  a like  report  was  made  by  Berger  ( Therap . Gaz .,  viii.  161).  Further 
evidence  of  its  virtues  is  desirable. 


ASAFCETIDA. 


295 


ASAFCETIDA,  U.  S.,  Br.— Asapetida. 

Assa/oetida,  Br. ; Asa  fcetida,  P.  G.,  F.  Cod. ; Gummi-resina  Asafcetida. — Asafcetida, 
E.  ; Asefetide , Fr.  ; Asant,  Stinkasant , Teufelsdreck , G. ; Asafetida  Sp.;  Mssa  fetida,  F.  It. 

A gum-resin  obtained  by  incision  from  the  living  root  of  Ferula  foetida  ( Bunge ) Regel , 
s.  Ferula  Scorodosma,  Bentley  et  Trimen.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 127. 

Nat.  Ord.  Umbelliferae,  Ortliospermae. 

Origin. — The  plant  is  a large  perennial  herb.  It  was  found  by  Lehmann  (1841)  in 
Turkestan  and  Bokhara,  and  by  Bunge  (1858)  in  Western  Afghanistan.  It  is  largely 
cultivated  in  Northern  and  Western  Afghanistan,  and  grows  wild  in  the  barren  regions 
between  the  Sea  of  Aral  and  the  Persian  Gulf,  south  to  Laristan.  Its  stem  is  from  1.5  to2 
M.  (5  to  7 feet)  high,  and  has  but  few  bipinnate  leaves,  which  are  very  much  smaller 
than  the  large  radical  leaves.  The  numerous  umbels  are  long-stalked  and  crowded  at 
the  summit  of  the  stem,  and  the  flat  and  winged  fruit  has  very  inconspicuous  vittae. 
Ferula  alliacea,  Boissier , of  North-eastern  Persia,  has  likewise  a strong  asafetida  odor. 

Collection. — Asafetida  is  obtained  from  the  roots  of  the  plant,  which  attain  a con- 
siderable size,  being  several  inches  in  thickness.  In  April,  after  the  leaves  commence  to 
wither,  a pit  about  6 inches  wide  and  6 inches  deep  is  dug  around  the  root,  so  as  to  bare 
its  upper  portion,  which  is  protected  against  the  sun  by  a layer  of  leaves  and  earth,  and 
left  in  this  condition  for  about  40  days.  Near  the  latter  end  of  May  the  covering  is 
removed,  a slice  of  the  root  is  cut  off,  and  the  exuded  juice  scraped  off  on  the  third  day. 
The  cutting  of  the  root,  which  is  in  the  mean  time  sheltered  from  the  sun,  is  repeated 
twice,  after  which  the  root  remains  undisturbed  for  a week,  when  the  same  operation  is 
repeated  and  a much  thicker  milk-juice  is  obtained.  After  another  rest  of  several  weeks 
the  root,  early  in  July,  is  again  cut,  and  this  operation  is  continued  until  the  root  is 
exhausted. 

This  is  substantially  the  account  of  K'ampfer,  who  witnessed  the  collection  of  asafetida 
in  Laristan  in  1687.  Br.  H.  W.  Bellew  gives  a similar  account  of  the  collection  of  asafet- 
ida, which  he  observed  in  1857  near  Kandahar,  but  it  differs  from  the  former  account  in 
the  statement  that  the  newly-sprouted  radical  leaves  and  the  withered  stem  of  the  previous 
year  are  cut  olf  from  the  root,  in  the  upper  bare  part  of  which  deep  incisions  are  made, 
where  the  milk-juice  concretes  in  tears,  or,  if  very  abundant,  flows  into  the  trench  dug 
around  the  root. 

Commerce. — Asafetida  enters  commerce  by  way  of  Bombay,  to  which  port  it  is 
shipped  from  Persia  and  from  Afghanistan,  the  Afghanistan  drug  being  probably  derived 
in  part  from  Narthex,  and  the  Persian  chiefly  from  Scorodosma.  It  comes  packed  in 
skins  and  in  boxes,  the  purest  kind,  which  is  called  king , being  often  soft,  but  gradually 
becoming  hard  and  translucent  and  of  a yellowish-brown  or  golden-yellow  color.  The 
brown  variety,  which  comes  principally  from  Abushaher  and  Bunder  Abbas,  is,  according 
to  W.  Bymock  (1875),  the  produce  of  Ferula  alliacea,  Boissier.  The  yellow  variety  is 
brought  from  Kandahar  and  is  principally  consumed  in  Northern  India.  The  asafetida 
which  reaches  Bombay  from  Laristan  is  known  as  angkuzek  i Lari , and  is  mostly  shipped 
abroad.  The  inferior  qualities,  the  hingra  of  the  Bombay  market,  are  more  or  less 
adulterated  at  the  place  of  collection,  and  constitute  the  varieties  which  are  found 
in  the  European  and  American  markets.  The  transparent  king  may  probably  be 
obtained  from  the  stem.  In  the  fiscal  year  1866-67,  51,869  pounds  of  asafetida  were 
imported  into  the  United  States,  against  173,000  pounds  in  1879-80  and  78,010  pounds 
in  1882. 

Description. — Occasionally  asafetida  is  met  with  in  a fluid  or  semi-fluid  condition  of 
a uniformly  whitish  color,  which  gradually  becomes  darker.  Mostly,  however,  it  forms 
masses  of  larger  or  smaller  opaque  tears  of  a white  color  internally,  which  are  imbedded 
in  a yellowish-  or  brownish-gray  sticky  and  more  or  less  granular  mass,  in  which  gypsum, 
sand,  and  other  earthy  admixtures  are  found.  It  has  a strong  garlicky  odor  and  an  allia- 
ceous, acrid,  and  bitter  taste.  The  tears,  separated  from  the  granular  mass,  are  some- 
times met  with  in  the  market,  and  should  alone  be  used  in  medicine ; they  are  externally 
brownish,  internally  milk-white ; they  break  with  a conchoidal  fracture,  and  the  surface 
acquires  in  a few  hours  a bright-pink  color,  which  changes  gradually  to  brown.  Incin- 
erated, they  leave  rather  less  than  1 per  cent,  of  ash.  When  triturated  with  water  they 
readily  form  a milk-white  emulsion,  which  becomes  yellow  on  the  addition  of  potassa  or 
soda.  Ether  dissolves  the  volatile  oil  and  a little  resin.  Rubbed  with  strong  sulphuric 
acid,  then  diluted  with  water  and  neutralized  with  an  alkali,  a slightly  colored  liquid  is 
obtained  which  exhibits  a bluish  fluorescence.  Exposed  to  cold,  asafetida  becomes  quite 


296 


ASAFCETIDA. 


brittle  and  readily  pulverizable,  and  when  broken  into  small  pieces  and  dried  for  a week 
or  two  over  unslaked  lime  in  a close  box  it  may  likewise  be  powdered  on  cool  days. 
The  powder  should  be  preserved  in  paper  bags  kept  over  lime,  when  it  will  retain  its  pul- 
verulent condition  (Hager). 

A very  impure  asafetida  is  occasionally  met  with,  which  consists  altogether  of  earthy 
matter  mixed  with  a very  small  proportion  of  the  milk-juice.  For  medicinal  uses  asafetida 
consisting  of  well-defined  and  large  tears,  and  containing  but  little  of  the  intervening 
sticky  mass,  should  be  selected.  Asafetida  should  yield  to  alcohol  at  least  60  per  cent, 
of  soluble  matter  ( TJ.  S.).  In  contact  with  hydrochloric  acid  only  slight  effervescence 
should  be  produced,  and  after  6 hours  the  acid  should  remain  almost  uncolored ; when 
incinerated,  asafetida  should  leave  not  over  10  per  cent,  of  ash  (/*.  G .). 

Constituents. — The  odor  is  due  to  a volatile  oil  which  is  obtainable  to  the  amount 
of  from  6 to  9 per  cent.  (Fliickiger),  and  is  a mixture  of  several  sulphides  of  ferulyl  or 
laseryl,  C6HU.  It  is  of  a light-yellow  color,  and  becomes  darker  on  exposure  to  the  air, 
acquiring  at  the  same  time  an  acid  reaction  and  changing  in  odor.  Spread  upon  water,  it 
acquires  a violet-red  color  with  the  vapor  of  bromine,  at  the  same  time  becoming  heavier 
than  water ; dissolved  in  disulphide  of  carbon,  it  is  colored  red  by  sulphuric  acid  (Fliicki- 
ger). The  gum  amounts  to  between  20  and  30  per  cent.,  and  from  45  to  65  or  7 1 per  cent, 
of  the  asafetida  is  resin,  a small  portion  of  which  is  insoluble  in  ether.  It  contains  ferulaic 
acid,  Ci0H10O4,  which  was  obtained  by  Hlasiwetz  and  Barth  (1866)  in  iridescent,  inodor- 
ous, and  tasteless  needles  soluble  in  boiling  water,  and  yielding,  when  fused  with  potassa, 
among  other  products,  acetic  and  protocatechuic  acids.  It  dissolves  in  alkalies  with  a 
yellow  color,  and  gives  with  ferric  chloride  a brown  precipitate.  It  is  chemically  related 
to  vanillin,  eugenol,  and  cinnamic  acid.  The  amorphous  red-brown  resin  is  likewise  acid, 
but  when  fused  with  potassa  yields  resorcin,  C6H602,  and  on  dry  distillation  furnishes  a 
small  quantity  of  unbelliferon,  C9H603,  and  blue-colored  oils.  The  so-called  gum  of 
which,  in  Kandahar  hing,  Fliickiger  found  47.9  per  cent,  with  only  10.8  per  cent,  of  resin, 
is  but  little  soluble  in  water ; the  insoluble  portion  dissolves  in  alkalies  and  is  reprecipi- 
tated by  acids ; both  portions  differ  in  their  behavior  from  gum-arabic.  According  to 
older  analyses,  asafetida  contains  also  formic,  acetic,  valerianic,  and  malic  acids. 

Impurities. — Besides  the  earthy  admixtures  mentioned  above,  pieces  of  a translucent 
gum  are  sometimes  found  in  asafetida ; they  do  not  yield  an  emulsion  with  water.  The 
amount  of  earthy  admixtures  in  commercial  asafetida  of  good  appearance  sometimes 
reaches  40  per  cent. 

Action  and  Uses. — Asafetida  in  substance,  or  its  volatile  oil,  acts  as  a general 
and  local  stimulant,  but  during  health  the  former  operation  is  scarcely  perceptible.  This 
stimulation  seems  to  be  due  entirely  to  the  oil,  and  so  is  the  peculiar  garlicky  or  alli- 
aceous odor  exhaled  by  the  breath  and  discharges  of  wind  from  the  stomach  and  rectum. 
But  in  appropriate  disorders,  those  especially  connected  with  a depressed  and  therefore 
excitable  condition  of  the  nervous  system,  and  in  cases  of  gastro-intestinal  flatulence 
aasociated  with  atony  of  the  bowels,  it  displays  incontestable  and  highly  salutary 
powers.  Its  use  as  a condiment  in  Persia  for  the  very  same  purposes  for  which  garlic  is 
employed  in  European  cookery  proves  it  to  be  a stimulant  of  the  bowels  and  a promoter 
of  digestion. 

Asafetida  is  generally  regarded  as  a nervine  and  as  remarkable  for  its  usefulness  in 
hysteria.  In  two  ways  it  may  influence  this  disease  : by  allaying  the  nervous  disorders 
of  the  paroxysm  when  it  is  announced  by  premonitory  symptoms  or  by  moderating  its 
violence  when  fully  formed ; and,  on  the  other  hand,  by  tending  to  correct  some  of  the 
derangements  which  predispose  to  the  attacks.  In  the  former  way,  however,  its  influ- 
ence is  most  distinct.  For  this  purpose  it  is  best  exhibited  in  enema.  It  is  also  of  use 
in  preventing  or  in  mitigating  the  tympanites  which  is  so  common  in  hysteria.  In  the 
allied  disorder,  hypochondriasis , the  medicine  is  often  of  service  in  removing  the  digestive 
ailments  with  which  the  mental  disorder  is  apt  to  be  associated.  In  chronic  bronchitis 
attended  with  spasmodic  dyspnoea  it  is  probable  that  asafetida  both  diminishes  the  secre- 
tion in  the  lungs  and  controls  the  spasmodic  element.  The  latter  action  is  sometimes 
evident  in  whooping  cough , and  possibly  both  actions  may  concur.  When  constipation 
and  tympanites  are  met  with,  as  they  often  are,  in  persons  of  a feeble  and  nervous  habit, 
this  medicine  is  one  of  the  very  best  that  can  employed,  either  as  a temporary  remedy 
for  the  latter  symptom  or  as  a more  permanent  cure  for  the  former  when  combined  with 
appropriate  purgatives,  of  which  aloes  is  the  best.  Asafetida  suppositories  (U.  S.  P. 
1870)  are  very  convenient  and  efficient  under  the  circumstances,  and  also  during  hysterical 
attacks,  as  are  also  the  compound  pills  of  galbanum,  which  contain  myrrh  and 


AS  ARUM. 


297 


asafetida.  In  tympanites  a large  enema  of  asafetida  mixture  often  gives  prompt  and 
complete  relief.  This  condition,  when  it  occurs  in  typhoid  fever,  may  he  greatly  reduced 
by  such  an  enema,  which  also  acts  favorably  upon  the  typhoid  element  of  the  disease. 
The  exhausted  condition  of  the  nervous  system  and  the  partial  paralysis  which  often 
follow  a nervous  apoplexy  may  be  removed  more  or  less  by  the  same  means,  as  well  as  by 
administering  the  drug  by  the  mouth.  Asafetida  should  not  be  neglected  in  chorea 
occurring  in"  feeble,  nervous  girls  about  the  age  of  puberty,  particularly  when  the 
nervous  disorder  is  accompanied  with  tardy  or  irregular  menstruation. 

In  substance  the  dose  of  asafetida  is  from  Gm.  0.20-1.00  (gr.  iij-xv).  It  should  be 
given  in  pill  or  in  the  official  mixture.  For  prompt  effects  the  latter  form  or  the  tinc- 
ture is  to  be  preferred. 

ASARUM.— Wild  Ginger. 

Radix  asari  Canadensis. — Canada  snakeroot , E. ; Asaret , Fr.  ; Hazelwurzel , G. ; Azaro , 

Sp. 

The  rhizome  with  rootlets  of  Asarum  canadense,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Aristolochiaceae. 

Origin. — The  plant  is  indigenous  to  North  America,  growing  in  rich  woodlands  as 
far  south  as  South  Carolina,  but  is  more  frequent  in  the  States  farther  north  and  in 
Canada.  The  creeping  rhizome  sends  up  a very  short  stem,  bearing  at  its  summit  two 
broad  reniform  leaves  upon  petioles  about  15  or  20  Cm.  (6  or  8 inches)  in  length,  from 
the  fork  of  which  a single  brownish-purple  nodding  flower  is  produced. 

Description. — The  rhizome,  which  is  in  some  places  known  as  colt'sfoot  root , is  from 
7 to  15  Cm.  (3  to  6 inches)  long  and  about  3 Mm.  (i  inch)  thick,  somewhat  bent  and 
curved  and  with  few  branches.  It  is  finely  wrinkled  longitudinally  ; the  inernodes  are 
about  12  Mm.  (half  an  inch)  or  more  in  length,  the  nodes  often  of  a jointed  appearance 
from  the  remnants  of  leaves,  and  beset  with  several  thin  nearly  simple  radicles  50  to  75 
Mm.  (2  or  3 inches)  in  length.  Externally  the  color  is  deep  purplish-brown,  internally 
whitish.  The  bark  is  about  one-sixth  the  diameter  of  the  rhizome,  and  contains  a volatile 
oil  in  many  of  its  parenchyma-cells  : the  wood  is  in  about  twelve  small  wedge-shaped 
bundles,  forming  an  interrupted  circle  and  enclosing  a large  pith.  The  rootlets  have  a 
thick  bark  and  a thin,  soft  woody  cord.  Wild  ginger  has  an  aromatic  odor  and  a warm, 
pungent,  and  bitterish  taste. 

Allied  Species. — Asarum  europium,  Linng,  asarabacca.  The  rhizome  and  rootlets  of  this 
plant  resemble  the  above  ; are,  however,  thinner,  1.5 — 2 Mm.  or  ^ inch)  in  diameter,  and 
usually  quadrangular  in  the  dry  state. 

Asarum  Sieboldii,  Miquel.  This  plant  grows  in  Japan,  where  it  is  known  as  to-sai-shin. 
The  slender  rhizome  somewhat  resembles  serpentary,  is  marked  by  numerous  stem-scars , and 
has  dense  tufts  of  pale-brown  simple  rootlets  attached,  which  are  about  10  Cm.  (4  inches)  long, 
and  are  internally  mealy,  white,  and  with  a thin  yellow  ligneous  cord.  The  drug  has  a slight 
aromatic  odor  and  a taste  which  is  at  first  aromatic,  resembling  a mixture  of  nutmeg  and  sas- 
safras, and  afterward  very  pungent  and  irritating. 

Constituents. — Wild  ginger  contains  a yellowish  volatile  oil  and  an  acrid  bitter 
resin,  to  which  its  medicinal  properties  are  probably  due.  Van  Gorder  (1876)  obtained 
2 per  cent,  of  aromatic  volatile  oil  and  a neutral  resin  having  a different  agreeable  odor 
and  a pungent,  warm,  and  lasting  taste.  It  also  contains  starch,  gum,  fixed  oil,  coloring 
matter,  and  salts.  F.  B.  Power  (1880)  ascertained  also  the  presence  of  a yellow  color- 
ing matter  corresponding  to  Graeger’s  asarin , which  is  precipitated  by  basic  lead  acetate 
and  colored  dark-green  by  ferric  salts,  but  not  precipitated  by  tannin.  A minute  quantity 
of  a body  was  found  giving  precipitates  with  most  group-reagents  for  alkaloids.  The 
volatile  oil,  of  which  Dr.  Squibb  obtained  3.12  per  cent.,  had  the  specific  gravity  .953  at 
17°  C.  (62.6°  F.).  It  is  of  a yellowish-  or  greenish-amber  color,  and  consists  of  a very 
small  amount  of  asarene , C10H16,  of  the  acetic  and  a small  amount  of  the  valerianic  ether 
of  asarol , C10H18O,  of  an  indifferent  neutral  body,  asarin , C12H1602,  and  of  a small  amount 
of  dark-blue  azulene.  The  volatile  oil  has  been  introduced  for  use  in  perfumery,  and, 
according  to  Boerner  (1878),  is  also  adapted  for  the  preparation  of  a medicated  water 
and  for  flavoring  elixirs.  The  fully-dried  root  yielded  13.43  per  cent  of  ash. 

The  impure  bitter  principle  of  asarabacca  has  been  named  asarin.  The  camphor-like 
bodies  asaron  and  asarit  appear  to  be  chemically  identical,  differing  only  in  the  latter 
separating  from  the  watery  distillate  in  fine  crystals,  while  asaron  or  asarum  camphor 
separates  first  in  an  oily  condition  before  it  crystallizes.  It  is  inodorous  and  tasteless, 
has  the  composition  CwTI^Oj,  and  volatilizes  with  the  production  of  irritating  vapors. 


298 


ASCLEPIAS. 


Action  and  Uses. — Canada  snakeroot  is  an  aromatic  and  tonic  stimulant.  In  hot 
infusion  it  is  diaphoretic  ; it  palliates  colic,  and  is  sometimes  used  in  low  forms  of  febrile 
disease  as  a substitute  for  serpent  aria.  An  infusion  may  be  made  with  Gm.  16  (§ss)  of 
the  root  and  a pint  of  boiling  water,  and  given  in  doses  of  a wineglassful.  A decoction 
of  it  is  reported  to  have  acted  as  an  irritant  poison,  and  to  have  produced  extensive  ery- 
thematous and  vesicular  inflammation  of  the  skin  {Med.  News , lviii.  283).  The 
European  species  of  asarum  is  not  officinal.  It  is  much  more  irritating  than  the  native 
plant,  producing  violent  vomiting  and  purging.  The  powder  of  its  root  is  employed  as 
an  errhine. 


ASCLEPIAS,  U.  So — Asclepias. 

Pleurisy -root,  E.;  Racine  d'asclepiade  tuber euse,  Fr. ; Knollige  Schwalbenwurzel , G. 

The  root  of  Asclepias  tuberosa,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Asclepiadeae,  Cynancheae. 

Origin. — This  perennial  plant,  which  is  known  also  as  butterfly -weed  and  orange  swal- 
low-wort, is  a native  of  Canada,  and  the  United  States  south  to  Florida  and  west  to  Texas 
and  Southern  Colorado,  and  grows  in  sandy  fields.  The  large  fusiform,  tuberous  root 
sends  up  several  rather  weak  and  branching  hirsute  stems,  with  alternate  lanceolate  or 
lance-linear  leaves  and  a corymb  of  numerous  umbels  with  handsome  bright  orange-red 
flowers. 

Description. — The  root  is  usually  found  in  the  market  cut  into  pieces  from  2 to  15 
Cm.  (1-6  inches)  in  length  and  12  to  25  Mm.  (J-l  inch)  or  more  thick.  The  head  is 
irregular,  knotty,  and  slightly  but  closely  annulate,  and,  like  the  longitudinally  wrinkled 
root,  externally  of  a brownish-orange  color  and  white  or  yellowish-white  within.  It  has 
an  irregular,  tough  fracture,  a very  thin  bark  (composed  of  an  outer  brownish  and  an  inner 
white  layer)  and  a distinctly  striate  meditullium  composed  of  yellowish  ligneous  and 
broader  white  medullary  rays.  It  is  inodorous  and  has  a slightly  bitterish,  acrid  taste. 
When  long  kept  it  acquires  a gray  color  externally  and  internally. 

Constituents. — Besides  starch,  which  is  present  in  considerable  proportion,  the 
root  contains,  according  to  Elam  Bhoads  (1861),  tannin,  albumen,  pectin,  gum,  two  resins, 
fixed  oil,  an  odorous  volatile  matter,  and  a peculiar  principle  possessing  the  taste  of  the 
root,  which  is  precipitated  by  tannin  from  the  concentrated  infusion.  This  precipitate, 
if  decomposed  by  oxide  of  lead  and  exhausted  by  alcohol,  yields  the  principle  as  a yel- 
lowish-white powder  which  is  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  and  much  water.  Alton  Clabaugh 
(1881)  observed  that  this  principle  is  colored  brown  by  sulphuric  acid,  and  pink,  chang- 
ing to  purple,  by  nitric  acid.  The  stearopten  melted  at  41°  C.  (106  F.),  and  was  sublim- 
able in  prismatic  needles.  The  air-dry  root  yielded  5.4  per  cent,  of  ash,  of  which  21.5 
per  cent,  was  soluble  in  water.  The  principle  referred  to  was  obtained  by  Quackenbush 
(1889)  in  crystals,  and  ascertained  to  be  a glucoside,  and  to  crystallize  also- from  chlo- 
roform ; tannin  could  not  be  detected,  but  the  presence  of  a fluorescent  principle  was 
noticed. 

Allied  Plants. — 1.  Asclepias  incarnata,  Limit}. — Flesh-colored  asclepias,  Swamp  milkweed, 
E. ; Asclepiade  incarnate,  Fr. ; Fleischfarbige  Schwalbenwurzel,  G. — The  plant  is  indigenous 
to  Canada,  and  to  the  United  States  as  far  south  as  Georgia.  It  grows  in  wet  grounds,  and  has 
a smoothish  or  pubescent  stem,  bearing  petiolate  oblong-lanceolate  and  acute  leaves,  umbels  of 
rose-purplish  flowers,  and  smooth  pods.  The  variety  named  pulchra  has  shorter  petioles  and 
broader  hairy  leaves.  The  rhizome  is  irregularly  globular,  about  25  Mm.  (1  inch)  in  diameter, 
above  with  several  more  or  less  elongated  branches,  bearing  the  scars  of  the  over-ground  stems 
and  frequently  remnants  of  the  same.  Externally  the  color  is  yellowish-brown,  internally 
whitish.  The  bark  is  thin,  and  covers  a firm  wood  having  fine  medullary  rays.  The  rhizome 
is  surrounded  on  all  sides  with  nearly  simple  light-brownish  rootlets  about  10  to  15  Cm.  (4-6 
inches)  long,  having  a thick  white  bark,  and  a thin  ligneous  cord  in  the  centre.  In  the  fresh 
state  the  rhizome  has  a somewhat  heavy  odor,  which  is  but  slightly  apparent  after  dicing ; the 
taste  is  sweetish,  somewhat  acrid,  and  afterward  bitter. 

Examined  by  Jos.  Y.  Taylor  (1875),  the  root  contains  a trace  of  volatile  oil,  two  acrid  resins, 
an  alkaloid  which  was  not  obtained  in  the  pure  state,  fixed  oil,  albumen,  pectin,  starch,  glucose, 
and  yields  8.25  per  cent,  of  ash.  C.  Gram  (1886)  isolated  the  emetic  principle  asclepiadin  (see 
below). 

2.  Asclepias  Cornuti,  Decaisne , s.  A.  syriaca,  Li.nn4. — Milkweed,  Common  silkweed,  Wild 
cotton,  E. ; AscEpiade  a la  soie,  llerbe  a la  ouate,  Fr. ; Seidenflanze,  G. ; Soliman  vegetal,  Sp. — 
The  rather  stout  and  smoothish  stem  of  this  common  plant,  which  is  indigenous  to  Canada,  and 
the  United  States  southward  to  North  Carolina,  has  oval-oblong  acute  and  shortly  petiolate 


ASCLEPIAS. 


299 


opposite  leaves,  which  are  about  15  to  20  Cm.  (6-8  inches)  long,  and  bears  three  or  four  axillary 
umbels  with  numerous  sweet-scented,  light  greenish-purple  flowers.  It  grows  along  roadsides 
and  in  waste  places.  The  rhizome  is  horizontal,  30  Cm.  (1  foot)  or  more  in  length,  slightly 
branched,  6 to  25  Mm.  (4-1  inch)  thick,  externally  grayish-brown,  finely  wrinkled  longitudi- 
nally, beset  with  few  simple  rootlets  or  marked  with  their  scars,  but  often  tuberculated  or  knotty 
from  undeveloped  branches  or  stem-scars.  When  dry  it  breaks  with  a short  fracture,  exhibiting 
a thick  white  bark  containing  slender  milk-vessels,  and  a soft,  brittle,  porous,  yellowish  wood  dis- 
sected by  rather  broad  medullary  rays.  It  is  without  odor  and  has  a bitterish,  unpleasant  taste. 
The  parenchyma  contains  starch.  John  found  in  the  milk-juice  of  the  plant  caoutchouc  and 
resin,  and  List  separated  from  it  (1849)  a white,  crystalline,  tasteless  principle,  asclepion , having 
the  composition  C20H34O3,  by  exhausting  the  congealed  milk-juice  with  ether.  Sultz  found  (1845) 
in  80  parts  of  the  milk-juice  69  water,  3 4 wax  and  fat,  5 caoutchouc,  4 gum,  and  2 sugar  and 
salts.  W.  L.  Hinchman  (1881)  ascertained  also  the  presence  in  the  rhizome  of  a little  volatile 
oil,  tannin,  gummy  matter,  and  a bitter  principle,  and  in  the  fresh  rhizome  probably  a volatile 
acrid  compound.  Quackenbush  found  no  tannin,  but  isolated  crystals  identical  with  those  from 
A.  tuberosa  (Am.  Jour.  Phar.,  1889,  p.  114);  the  ash  amounts  to  about  5.4  per  cent.  Kassner 
(1886)  procured  from  the  plant  in  September  1.61  per  cent,  of  caoutchouc ; the  extract,  prepared 
with  benzol,  contains  about  50  per  cent,  of  wax  and  20  to  25  per  cent,  of  caoutchouc,  the  remain- 
der being  chlorophyll  and  yellow  and  brown  coloring  matters. 

3.  Asclepias  currasavica,  Linne. — This  perennial  herb,  known  as  bastard  ipecacuanha , is  indig- 
enous to  Central  and  South  America  and  the  West  Indies.  The  root  consists  of  a very  short  root- 
stock,  which  is  abruptly  divided  into  numerous  thin,  pale  yellowish-brown,  and  internally  whitish 
rootlets.  The  leaves  are  petiolate,  5 to  10  Cm.  (2-4  inches)  long,  lanceolate  or  oblong-lanceolate, 
acute  at  both  ends,  and  smooth.  The  flowers  are  bright-red,  occasionally  white.  The  glossy 
seed-hairs,  sometimes  called  vegetable  silk,  are  firmer  than  those  of  the  preceding  species.  Gram 
(Arch.  f.  exper.  Pathol.,  xix.  389)  prepared  asclepiadin  from  the  herb  by  treating  the  alcoholic 
extract  with  water,  precipitating  the  solution  with  basic  lead  acetate  and  ammonia,  and,  after 
washing  the  filtrate  with  ether,  precipitating  it  with  tannin  ; on  decomposing  this  precipitate 
with  lead  oxide,  alcohol  dissolves  the  glucoside,  which  is  sparingly  soluble  in  ether,  and  is  read- 
ily altered,  yielding  the  less  active  asclepin,  this  being  contained  in  the  ether  used  for  washing. 
The  inactive  asclepion  is  a decomposition  product,  melting  at  104°  C.,  readily'soluble  in  chloro- 
form, and  less  soluble  in  ether.  In  Central  America  the  plant  is  called  cancerillo  or  ponchishuiz. 

4.  Cynanchum  (Asclepias,  Linne ) Vincetoxicum,  Per  soon,  s.  Yincetoxicum  officinale,  Moench. — 
Swallow- wort,  E. ; Dompte-venin,  Hirundinaria,  Fr. ; Schwalbenwurz,  Giftwende,  G. — This  plant, 
indigenous  to  the  greater  part  of  Europe,  has  nearly  sessile  cordate-ovate  leaves,  and  small  umbels 
of  about  nine  white  and  yellowish  flowers.  The  root,  which  is  the  part  used,  consists  of  a very 
knotty,  many-headed  horizontal  root-stock,  with  cup-shaped  stem-scars,  and  with  numerous  nearly 
simple  pale-brownish  rootlets,  which  are  about  15  Cm.  (6  inches)  long,  and  show  upon  the  trans- 
verse fracture  a rather  thick  brownish  bark  with  white  dots  and  a finely  porous  yellowish  medi- 
tullium.  The  peculiar  odor  of  the  fresh  root,  which  resembles  that  of  valerian,  disappears  nearly 
altogether  on  drying ; the  taste  is  sweet,  bitterish,  and  acrid. 

Feneulle  (1825)  obtained  from  the  root  volatile  oil,  fat,  pectin,  and  resinous  asclepin , which  C. 
Gram  (see  above)  ascertained  to  be  a derivative  of  the  emetic  principle  asclepiadin.  This  seems 
to  be  identical  with  Tanret’s  vincetoxin  (Jour,  de  Phar.  et  de  Chim.,  1885,  xi.  210),  which  is  amor- 
phous, soluble  in  alcohol  and  chloroform,  insoluble  in  ether,  and  exists  in  two  modifications — one 
insoluble  and  the  other  soluble  in  water ; this  solution  is  precipitated  by  sodium  chloride,  by 
tannin,  and  by  ammoniacal  lead  acetate,  in  the  presence  of  acids  also  by  potassio-mercuric  iodide  ; 
it  has  a sweet  and  bitter  taste,  is  a glucoside,  and  is  not  emetic. 

5.  Calotropis  (Asclepias,  Willdenow)  gigantea,  Rob.  Brown , and  Cal.  procera,  R.  Brown , s. 
Cal.  Hamiltonii,  Wight  (Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  PL,  176),  are  shrubs,  the  former  being  indig- 
enous to  Southern  India  and  the  East  Indian  islands,  the  latter  to  Northern  India  and  west- 
ward through  Asia  and  tropical  Africa.  Both  species  yield  mudar-bark,  which  consists  of  irreg- 
ular fragments  5 Mm.  (^  inch)  or  less  thick,  externally  yellowish-gray,  fissured,  or  after  separa- 
tion of  the  corky  layer  whitish,  and  upon  the  transverse  section  striate  with  the  narrow  brown 
bast-rays.  The  bark  is  brittle,  of  a slight  odor,  and  of  a mucilaginous  bitter  and  acrid  taste,  and 
has  often  attached  to  it  fragments  of  the  light-yellow  fibrous  wood.  It  contains  starch,  an  acrid 
acid  resin  soluble  in  alcohol  and  ether,  and  a colorless  bitter  principle  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether, 
and  chloroform  and  precipitated  by  tannin,  but  not  by  lead  acetate  (Pharmacographia).  War- 
den and  Waddell  obtained  a principle  in  nodular  crystals  resembling  asclepion,  caoutchouc,  and 
several  resins. 

Medical  Action  and  Uses. — The  qualities  of  the  three  species  of  Asclepias  are 
practically  identical,  but  those  of  A.  tuberosa  are  best  known.  Like  many  other  medi- 
cines, it  has  been  alleged  to  possess  specific  powers  in  the  cure  of  particular  diseases,  but 
a comparison  of  the  reports  concerning  it  show  that  it  is  one  of  the  numerous  class  of 
vegetable  products  which  under  certain  conditions  act  as  emetics,  and  even  purgatives, 
and  more  commonly  as  sudorifics,  expectorants,  carminatives,  and  anodynes.  Being  an 
irritant,  it  has  not  escaped  being  ranked  as  a cholagogue.  A.  incarnata  is  reported  by 
J.  H.  F raser  (Birmingham  Med.  Rev.,  April,  1884)  to  affect  She  heart  and  arteries  like 
digitalis,  but  without  disturbing  the  stomach  and  bowels'S-it  frequently  acts  as  a stoma- 


300 


ASPARAGUS. 


chic.  He  administered  it  in  an  infusion  and  also  in  a fluid  extract,  giving  from  Cc.  2 to  4 
(f^ss-f^j)  of  the  latter  every  three  hours,  and  declared  it  to  be  “ a speedy,  potten,  and  reli- 
able diuretic.”  A.  syriaca  is  said  to  be  diuretic.  Its  general  qualities  account  for  the  repu- 
tation of  the  officinal  plant  as  a diaphoretic  in  the  forming  stage  of  fevers.  It  is,  however, 
thought  to  produce  sweating,  not  by  stimulating,  but  by  lowering,  the  action  of  the  heart. 
The  same  characteristic  renders  it  useful  in  acute  rheumatism , bronchitis , pneumonia , and 
pleurisy , so  far  as  sedation  of  the  nervous  and  circulatory  systems  can  be  so ; that  is,  by 
lessening  local  congestions.  The  “ pleurisy  ” it  is  credited  with  relieving  was  most  prob- 
ably muscular  rheumatism  of  the  walls  of  the  chest.  Flatulent  colic  and  dyspepsia  are 
affections  to  which  it  has  been  regarded  as  peculiarly  appropriate.  The  milky  juice  of 
A.  syriaca , applied  to  the  skin,  soon  becomes  a tough,  adhesive  pellicle,  and  has  been 
used  to  coat  recent  wounds  and  superficial  ulcers  and  promote  their  cicatrization.  The 
dose  of  the  powdered  root  of  the  officinal  plant  is  from  Gm.  1.30-4.00  (20  to  60  grains). 
A decoction  is  made  with  Gm.  32  (an  ounce)  of  pleurisy-root  to  a quart  (Cc.  1000)  of 
water,  and  is  given  in  doses  of  4 fluidounces  every  2 hours  as  a diaphoretic.  A fluid 
extract  has  also  been  prepared. 

In  1881,  Dr.  Guimaraes  described  the  physiological  action  of  A.  currasavica , a native 
of  Brazil.  He  found  it  to  act  directly  upon  the  organic  muscular  system,  and  especially 
upon  the  heart  and  blood-vessels,  causing  great  constriction  of  the  latter  and  distension 
of  the  larger  arteries.  Secondarily,  it  occasioned  great  dyspnoea,  vomiting,  and  diarrhoea 
( Times  and  Gaz.,  Dec.,  1881,  p.  661). 

Mudar-barh  is  used  in  India  as  a tonic  and  alterative  medicine,  and  in  full  doses  as  a 
diaphoretic  and  emetic,  in  the  treatment  of  rheumatism,  dysentery,  and  diseases  of  the 
skin.  The  dose  of  the  powdered  bark  is  stated  to  be  Gm.  0.18-20  (gr.  iij-iv)  as  a tonic, 
and  Gm.  2-4  (gr.  xx-lx)  as  an  emetic.  The  inspissated  juice  is  used  by  the  natives  as 
an  abortifacient. 


ASPARAGUS.— Asparagus. 

Asperge , Fr. ; Spargel , G, ; Esparraguera , Sp. ; Asparago , F.  It.  ( Rhizoma  et  turi- 
ones). 

Asparagus  officinalis,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Lilliaceae,  Asparagineae. 

Origin  and  Description. — This  herbaceous  perennial  is  indigenous  to  Europe,  and 
is  extensively  cultivated.  Its  stem  is  1.5  M.  (4  or  5 feet)  high,  has  the  thread-like  leaves 
(branchlets,  Gray)  clustered  in  the  axil  of  a short,  ovate  sheathing  bract  (leaf,  Gray),  and 
small,  greenish,  axillary,  nodding  flowers,  producing  red  berries.  The  following  parts  have 
been  medicinally  employed : 

1.  Asparagi  radix  consists  of  a short  horizontal  rhizome  about  three-quarters  of  an 
inch  (19  Mm.)  thick,  on  the  upper  side  marked  by  stem-scars,  and  below  by  numerous  long, 
whitish,  nearly  simple  roots,  which  on  drying  become  deeply  wrinkled  longitudinally.  It 
is  inodorous  and  has  an  insipid  sweetish  taste. 

2.  Asparagi  turiones,  the  well-known  young  shoots  which  are  used  as  food. 

Constituents. — Examined  by  Dulong,  the  root  was  found  to  contain  yellow  resin, 

sugar,  gum,  albumen,  chlorides,  phosphates,  malates,  and  acetates.  Vauquelin  and  Bobi- 
quet  (1805)  discovered  asparagin  in  the  shoots,  which  has  since  been  found  in  many  other 
plants  (see  p.  162).  Beinsch  (1870)  found  in  the  berries  considerable  grape-sugar  and 
spargancin , an  orange-red  sublimable  coloring  matter  soluble  in  ether  and  crystallizing  in 
scales.  The  seeds  contain  fixed  oil,  aromatic  resin,  crystallizable  sugar,  and  a crystalliz- 
able  bitter  principle,  spargin. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Syrupus  asparagi,  which  is  employed  in  France,  is  pre- 
pared by  dissolving  190  parts  of  sugar  in  100  parts  of  the  clarified  juice  of  asparagus- 
shoots. 

The  tubers  of  Asparagus  ascendens,  racemosus,  and  sarmentosus,  Linne , are  employed 
in  India  like  salep. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  offensive  odor  given  to  the  urine  of  persons  who  eat 
the  voung  asparagus-plant  is  well  known  ; some  attribute  to  it  a diuretic  virtue  which 
there  is  not  sufficient  reason  to  accept ; others  have  reported  that  it  may  cause  urethritis  ; 
and  one,  at  least,  that  it  renders  the  urine  saccharine.  If  any  part  of  the  plant  is  diu- 
retic, it  is  probably  the  root.  It  has  no  true  medicinal  virtues.  Asparagin,  in  doses  of 
from  2 to  5 grains,  is  said  to  cause  headache,  fulness  of  the  eyes,  and  general  depression, 
with  some  slowing  of  the  pulse  (Dendrick)  ; but  other  experimenters  produced  no  such 


ASPIDIUM . 


301 


effects  even  with  much  larger  doses  (Husemann  and  Hilger,  Die  Pflanzenstojfe , p.  270). 
An  infusion  of  the  wild  herb  has  been  credited  with  controlling  metrorrhagia  ( Bond . Med . 
Record , Jan.  1888,  p.  30). 


Fig.  33. 


ASPIDIUM,  17.  — Aspidium. 

Filix  mas,  Br.,  U.  S.  1870;  Rhizoma  filicis,  P.  G.  ; Radix  filicis  mavis. — Male  fern, 
Male  shield  fern,  E.  ; Fougere  male , Fr. ; Wurmfarn,  Waldfarn,  Johanniswurzel,  G. ; Del- 
echo  macho,  Sp. ; Felce  maschio,  F.  It. 

The  rhizome,  covered  with  portions  of  the  stipes,  of  Dryopteris  (Aspidium,  Swartz , 
Nephrodium,  Brown,  Polypodium,  Linne')  Filix  mas,  Schott,  and  of  Dryopteris  (Aspi- 
dium, Willdenow,  Nephrodium,  Michaux , Polypodium,  Linne ) marginale,  Asa  Gray 
Woodv.  Med.  Bot.,  plate  271 ; Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  300. 

Nat.  Ord. — Filices. 

Origin. — Male  fern  is  indigenous  to  Canada  westward  to  the  Pacific  Ocean,  thence 
south  along  the  Rocky  Mountains  to  Mexico  and  a considerable  portion  of  South  Amer- 
ica ; to  some  of  the  Polynesian  Islands ; 

to  the  greater  portion  of  Asia  north  of  Fig.  34. 

the  Himalaya  Mountains;  and  to  Europe 
and  some  parts  of  Africa.  The  marginal 
shield  fern  grows  in  rich  rocky  woods  in 
Canada  and  the  United  States.  The  fronds 
of  both  species  are  from  30  to  60  or  90 
Cm.  (1  to  2 or  3 feet)  high,  bipinnate,  at 
the  tip  pinnate  or  pinnatifid,  lanceolate, 
or  the  latter  ovate-lanceolate  in  outline 
and  evergreen  ; the  circular  fruit-dots  are 
situated  on  the  veins — in  the  male  fern 
near  the  midrib  of  the  lower  half  of  the 
pinnules,  or  in  the  marginal  shield  fern 
at  the  base  of  the  serratures  along  the 
lower  side  of  the  pinnules,  and  are  covered  j^dium : 
with  an  orbicular  heart-shaped  indusium. 

The  fronds  arise  from  the  living  some- 
what ascending  end  of  the  horizontal 

rhizome,  which  is  15  to  30  Cm.  (6  to  12  inches)  long,  and  the  old  portion  densely 
covered  with  the  remnants  of  the  stipes.  It  is  collected  early  in  autumn  or  in  summer, 
as  directed  by  the  British  Pharmacopoeia. 

Description. — As  found  in  commerce,  it  is  7 to  15  Cm.  (3  to  6 inches)  long,  and 
with  the  closely  imbricated  and  slightly  curved  remnants  of  the  stipes  50  to  75  Mm. 
(2  to  3 inches)  thick.  The  latter  remain  green  in  their  lower  portion  for  several  years, 
and  are,  like  the  rhizome  itself,  densely  covered  with  a ‘brown,  glossy,  and  soft  chaff’ 
consisting  of  thin  transparent  scales ; between  the  stipes  are  the  black  wiry  rootlets. 
The  rhizome  itself  is  fleshy,  12  to  25  Mm.  (£  to  1 inch)  in  diameter,  externally 
dark-brown,  internally  of  a pale  green  color  and  spongy  texture,  and  shows  upon  the 
transverse  section  near  the  surface  eight  or  twelve  larger  fibro-vascular  bundles  arranged 
in  an  interrupted  circle,  outside  of  which  are  a number  of  smaller  ones.  The  stipes 
have  about  eight  small  vascular  bundles  in  a loose  circle.  The  rhizome  of  the  marginal 
shield  fern  corresponds  with  this  description  in  all  respects,  except  that  it  has  about  six 
fibro-vascular  bundles  and  does  not  fully  attain  the  diameter  of  the  thickest  male  fern 
rhizomes.  The  spongy  texture  is  due  to  the  thin-walled  parenchyma  and  to  the  large 
intercellular  spaces,  into  which  stalked  glands  project  which  exude  a green  liquid. 
These  glands  were  observed  in  male  fern  by  Herman  Schacht  (1863),  and  in  marginal 
shield  fern  by  Fliickiger  (1880)  ; many  allied  species  do  not  contain  such  glands.  As- 
pidium has  a slight  disagreeable  odor  and  a sweetish  afterward  somewhat  bitter  astrin- 
gent and  nauseous  taste.  For  medicinal  purposes  the  dead  portions  of  the  stipes  and 
rhizome  must  be  removed,  and  the  green  part  only  retained,  which  should  be  at  once 
dried,  powdered,  and  exhausted  by  ether  for  preparing  the  oleoresin. 

Constituents. — Male  fern  has  been  frequently  analyzed.  Geiger  (1826)  obtained 
6.9  per  cent,  of  green  fixed  oil,  which  Luck  (1851)  found  to  consist  of  the  glycerides  of 
filixolic  and  filosmylic  acids,  the  last  of  which  is  volatile.  The  tannin  of  older  authors 
was  separated  by  Luck  into  two  acids,  tannaspidic  and  pteritannic  acids,  the  last  only 


surface  of  Dryopteris  Filix  mas,  Schott:  transverse  sec- 
peeled  rhi-  tion  of  rhizome ; /.  fibro-vascular  bun- 

zome.  dies. 


302 


ASPIDOSPERMA. 


being  soluble  in  ether,  both  coloring  ferric  salts  green.  Malin  (1867)  found  only  one 
tannin,  filitannic  acid , which,  with  fusing  potassium  hydroxide,  yields  phloroglucin  and 
protocatechuic  acid,  and  on  being  boiled  with  dilute  sulphuric  acid  is  split  into  sugar  and 
filix-red , the  latter  in  an  impure  condition,  being  Luck’s  tannaspidic  acid.  Peschier 
(1826)  obtained  from  the  ethereal  extract  granular  crystals,  which  Luck  named  filicic 
acid.  Grabowski  (1867)  gave  it  the  formula  CuH1805,  and  found  it  to  be  dibutyryl-phlo- 
roglucin , which  is  decomposed  by  potassa  near  the  fusing-point  into  phloroglucin  and 
butyric  acid.  Pavesi’s  aspidin  (1861)  is  a very  impure  filicic  acid,  which  is  probably  the 
main  active  ingredient.  Bock  (1851)  determined  the  tannin  to  amount  to  10  per  cent., 
and  found  also  a trace  of  volatile  oil,  wax,  chlorophyll,  gallic  acid,  albumen,  pectin,  starch, 
gummy  matter,  sugar,  and  2 to  3 per  cent,  of  inorganic  salts.  J.  L.  Patterson  (1875) 
obtained  from  the  rhizome  of  the  marginal  shield  fern  filicic  acid  and  a tannin  similar 
to,  if  not  identical  with,  that  of  filix  mas ; and  C.  H.  Cressler  (1878)  found  the  oleoresin 
effectual  in  several  cases  of  tape-worm. 

Action  and  Uses- — Male  fern  was  anciently  known  to  be  a remedy  for  taenia  and 
other  intestinal  worms,  but  its  reputation  was  more  firmly  established  in  the  last  century. 
It  is  more  efficacious  in  removing  the  unarmed  than  the  armed  taenia,  unless  the  latter 
be  young.  The  methods  employed  by  different  physicians  in  the  treatment  of  taenia  by 
male  fern  are  for  the  most  part  very  complicated,  and  seem  devised  more  in  a spirit  of  char- 
latanism than  of  art.  It  is,  as  a rule,  essential  that  the  bowels  should  contain  no  accumu- 
lation of  partially-digested  food  or  of  feces,  and  that  the  vigor  of  the  parasite  should  be 
reduced  by  as  low  and  simple  a diet  as  can  well  be  borne,  and  chiefly  in  a liquid  form,  as 
milk  or  broth.  Early  in  the  morning,  fasting,  the  patient  should  take  from  Gm.  2-6  (gr. 
xxx-xc)  of  powdered  male  fern  at  a single  dose  or  in  divided  doses  at  short  intervals. 
The  oleoresin  of  male  fern,  in  the  dose  of  from  Gm.  0.60-1.30  (npx-xx),  may  be 
administered  along  with  the  powdered  root  or  in  feeble  persons  by  itself.  About  an 
hour  after  either  preparation  an  active  purge  of  calomel  with  jalap  or  gamboge  is  sometimes 
administered,  but  generally  an  ounce  of  castor  oil  will  suffice.  Some  prefer  Epsom  salts. 
It  is  by  certain  authorities  recommended  to  give  a full  dose  of  sulphuric  ether  shortly 
after  the  specific  medicine,  for  the  purpose  of  rendering  the  detachment  of  the  parasite 
easier.  The  oleoresin  is  conveniently  administered  in  gelatin  capsules.  (See  Oleoresina 
Aspidii).  The  dose  of  filicic  acid  is  about  Gm.  2 (gr.  xxx). 

Aspidium  marginale  appears  to  posses  the  same  properties  as  male  fern.  Suesserott 
employed  a fluid  extract  of  it  in  the  treatment  of  taenia  with  entire  success  (Trains.  Med. 
Soc.  Penna.,  1875,  p.  637),  and  Cressler,  who  gave  the  oleoresin  in  capsules  containing 
each  about  10  minims,  caused  the  expulsion  of  taeniae  on  two  occasions.  The  usual  asso- 
ciated treatment  of  abstinence  from  food  before  the  medicine  and  a purgative  after  its 
administration  was  also  carried  out  (Am.  Jour.  Phar .,  June,  1878). 

Polypodium  incanum  is  stated  to  possess  emmenagogue  qualities.  The  negro  women 
of  Alabama  are  reported  to  have  used  it  before  menstruating  and  to  prevent  conception  ; 
and  the  ladies  of  that  region  to  relieve  dysmenorrhoea  (Mastin,  Phila.  Med.  Times , xi. 
607).  Osmunda  regalis  is  astringent  and  tonic. 

ASPIDOSPERMA,  U.  S. — Aspidosperma. 

Quebracho , E.,  Fr.,  G.,  F.  It. 

The  bark  of  Aspidosperma  Quebracho,  Schlechtendal. 

Nat.  Ord. — Apocynaceae. 

Origin. — The  term  quebracho  (quebrar  hacho ) signifies  “ breaking  the  axe,”  and  is 
applied  in  South  America  to  trees  having  a very  hard  wood.  The  above  species  is  called 
quebracho  bianco , on  account  of  its  light-colored  wood.  It  is  a large  evergreen  tree,  hav- 
ing thin  drooping  branchlets.  The  leaves  are  small,  opposite,  or  in  whorls  of  three, 
nearly  sessile,  elliptic-lanceolate,  sharply  pointed,  and  with  an  entire  and  callous  margin  ; 
the  small  yellow  flowers  are  in  axillary  cymes,  and  produce  woody  somewhat  compressed 
capsules  with  broadly-winged  seeds.  The  plant  was  discovered  by  Burmeister  (1860)  ; 
specimens  of  the  bark  were  sent  to  Europe  by  Schickedanz  (1878),  and  chemically 
examined  by  Fraude  and  Hesse.  A thorough  histological  examination  of  the  bark  was 
made  by  A.  Hansen  (1880).  The  bark  is  collected  from  old  trees  after  the  corky  layer 
has  been  well  developed  ; though  it  contains  only  3.48  per  cent,  of  tannin,  according  to 
Paschkins,  it  is  used  in  the  Argentine  Republic  to  some  extent  for  tanning. 

Description. — Quebracho  bark  is  seen  in  flattish  or  curved  pieces  varying  in  size 
and  having  a thickness  of  12-30  Mm.  (£  to  1^  inches).  The  outward  surface  is  deeply  fis- 


A SPID  OS  PER  M A . 


303 


sured  and  warty,  dingy  ochre-colored  or  pale -brownish,  or,  after  abrasion  of  this  layer, 
brownish-red  or  of  a bright  orange-brown  color ; the  inner  surface  is  usually  deep-brown, 
but  occasionally  pale-colored.  The  bark  is  nearly  inodorous,  has  a bitter  and  slightly  aro- 
matic taste,  and  breaks  in  the  outer  layer  with  a short  granular,  and  in  the  inner  layer 
with  a fibrous,  fracture.  Upon  transverse  section  about  one-half  or  more  of  the  bark  is 
seen  to  consist  of  an  irregular  corky  layer,  orange-brown  in  the  interior,  marked  with 
irregular  tangential  lines  of  alternating  suberous  bands  and  parenchyma,  and  in  the  latter 
with  numerous  whitish  dots  formed  by  groups  of  stone-cells.  The  inner  bark  forms  a 
brown  (or  yellowish)  layer  nearly  uniform  in  thickness,  having  narrow  medullary  rays, 
numerous  whitish  dots  of  stone-cells  in  groups,  and  scattered  bast-fibres,  each  being 
almost  completely  enveloped  in  a sheath  of  small  crystal-cells. 

Constituents. — Schickedanz  isolated  a crystalline  alkaloid,  which  Fraude  named 
aspidospermine ; Hesse  found  in  addition  five  other  alkaloids,  one  of  which  ( quebracha - 
mine)  appears  to  be  sometimes  wanting.  The  extract,  prepared  with  hot  alcohol,  is 
treated  with  soda  and  chloroform,  the  latter  solution  evaporated,  the  residue  taken  up 
with  diluted  sulphuric  acid,  and  the  filtrate  precipitated  by  soda.  On  dissolving  the 
mixed  alkaloids  in  a little  boiling  alcohol,  aspidospermine,  quebrachine,  and  quebrachamine 
will  crystallize  on  cooling,  and  are  separated  by  crystallization  from  diluted  hydrochloric 
acid,  aspidospermine  remaining  in  the  mother-liquor.  The  alcoholic  mother-liquor  contains 
the  remaining  three  bases,  which  are  combined  with  acetic  acid  ; from  this  solution  ammo- 
nia precipitates  aspidosamine  ; aspidospermatine  and  hypoquebrachine  are  precipitated  by 
soda  and  separated  by  boiling  benzin,  in  which  the  latter  is  nearly  insoluble.  All  these 
alkaloids  are  more  or  less  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  and  chloroform.  Aspidospermine , 
C22H30N2O2,  melts  at  205°  C.  (401°  F.),  and  is  a weak  base,  forming  mostly  amorphous 
salts ; warm  perchloric  acid  colors  the  solution  permanently  deep-red ; platinic  chloride 
gives  a blue  precipitate  ; sulphuric  acid  and  lead  peroxide  (or  potassium  bichromate)  color 
the  alkaloid  brown,  afterward  cherry-red  or  purplish.  Aspidospermatine , C22H28N202. 
melts  at  162°  C.  (324°  F.),  is  a strong  base,  and  yields  amorphous  salts ; it  is  colored, 
like  the  preceding,  by  perchloric  acid,  but  not  by  sulphuric  acid  and  chromate.  Aspid- 
osamine , C22H28N202,  melts  near  100°  C.  (212°  F.),  is  a strong  base,  is  colored  blue 
by  sulphuric  acid  and  chromate,  and  gives  with  boiling  perchloric  acid  a fuchsine-red 
liquid.  Quebrachine,  C21H26N203,  melts  at  215°  C.  (419°  F.),  yields  crystallizable  salts, 
is  colored  yellow  by  sunlight,  also  by  warming  with  perchloric  acid,  and  gives  with  sul- 
phuric acid  a colorless  solution  becoming  blue  on  standing  or  more  rapidly  by  lead  per- 
oxide or  potassium  chromate,  the  color  produced  by  the  latter  changing  to  red-brown. 
Quebrachamine  resembles  the  preceding,  but  melts  at  142°  C.  (288°  F.),  and  is  freely 
soluble  in  cold  alcohol  and  ether.  Hypoquebrachine  is  yellow,  amorphous,  melts  near 
80°  C.  (176°  F.),  and  gives  in  solution  a cherry-red  color  with  ferric  chloride. 

Tests. — For  recognizing  quebracho-bark  Fraude  recommends  the  following : Boil  5 
Gm.  of  the  bruised  bark  with  25  Gm.  of  benzin  ; filter  while  hot,  agitate  the  liquid 
with  10  Cc.  of  diluted  sulphuric  acid,  separate  the  aqueous  solution,  supersaturate  with 
ammonia,  agitate  with  ether,  evaporate  the  ethereal  solution,  and  boil  the  residue  with 
perchloric  acid ; or,  dissolve  it  in  a little  water  with  4 drops  of  sulphuric  acid,  add  a 
minute  crystal  of  potassium  chlorate,  and  boil ; the  solution  should  acquire  a fuchsine- 
red  color. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparations. — Tinctura  quebracho.  Quebracho-bark  1 
part ; diluted  alcohol  sufficient  for  obtaining  5 parts  of  tincture. 

Vinum  quebracho.  Quebracho-bark  1 part ; diluted  alcohol  2 parts ; white  wine 
sufficient  for  obtaining  15  parts  of  liquid. 

Allied  Drugs. — Loxopterygium  Lorentzii,  Grisebach  (nat.  ord.  Terebinthaceae,  Anacardiese). 
This  tree  is  known  in  the  Argentine  Republic  as  quebracho  Colorado , the  wood  of  which  is  red- 
brown  and  contains  about  20  per  cent,  of  tannin.  Hansen  (1880)  describes  the  bark  as  being 
externally  dingy-yellow  or  brown,  usually  covered  with  lichens ; the  transverse  section  is  light- 
brown,  and  shows  numerous  parallel  dark-colored  corky  bands,  which  are  traversed  at  right 
angles  by  many  fine  light-colored  medullary  rays ; between  the  latter  are  regular  tangential 
rows  of  groups  of  stone-cells,  imparting  to  the  tissue  a checkered  appearance ; the  bast-fibres 
are  the  same  as  in  white  quebracho-bark,  surrounded  by  a sheath  of  crystal-cells,  but  they  are 
always  much  smaller,  and  are  arranged  in  nearly  rectangular  groups.  Hesse  considers  its 
tannin  to  be  very  similar  to  that  of  catechu,  and  has  obtained  two  bitter  alkaloids:  loxopterygine 
is  very  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  and  chloroform,  and  is  colored  blood-red  by  nitric  acid  ; the 
second  alkaloid  is  very  easily  decomposed,  and  yields  with  diluted  sulphuric  acid  a beautiful  blue 
solution.  The  resinous  exudation  of  the  bark  resembles  kino  in  appearance  and  taste,  and, 
according  to  Arate  (1878),  is  soluble  in  alcohol,  anodic  alcohol,  acetone,  acetic  ether,  acetic  acid, 
and  hot  water. 


304 


ASPIDOSPERMA. 


Iodina  rhomb i folia,  Hooker  et  Arnott  (nat.  ord.  Aquifoliaceae),  is  known  as  quebracho  fiojo, 
and  Mach^erium  fertile,  Grisebach  (nat.  ord.  Leguminosse),  as  tipa.  The  wood  and  bark  of 
both  species  are  used  like  the  preceding,  and  occasionally  collected  with  it. 

Copalchi-bark  has  been  sold  as  quebracho. 

(See  also  paytine  and  Geissospermum.) 

Action  and.  Uses. — In  1879,  Penzoldt  described  quebracho  as  a medicine  that 
without  any  injurious  collateral  effects  promptly  diminishes  or  removes  sundry  forms  of 
dyspnoea  in  diseases  of  the  respiratory  and  circulatory  apparatus.  He  observed  a reduc- 
tion of  the  respiration-rate  under  its  influence,  without  any  corresponding  lowering  of 
the  pulse-rate.  It  seemed  to  produce  a sense  of  warmth  in  the  head,  but  neither  vertigo 
nor  somnolence.  Sometimes  it  excited  diaphoresis,  sometimes  also  salivation,  and  in 
some  cases  of  pulmonary  disease  the  cough  and  expectoration  grew  less.  Penzoldt  saw 
no  bad  consequences  from  its  use,  but  other  physicians  have  noted  its  disagreeable  taste 
and  the  nausea  it  is  apt  to  occasion.  According  to  Laquer,  if  the  use  of  the  medicine  is 
prolonged  it  is  apt  to  cause  headache,  dulness  of  the  senses,  vertigo,  and  salivation,  and 
the  patients  acquire  an  extreme  disgust  for  it  (Bull,  de  Therap .,  xcviii.  379).  Picot 
assures  us  that  it  enabled  him  to  ascend  a mountain  without  shortness  of  breath — a feat 
which  he  could  not  otherwise  accomplish  (Bull,  de  Therap.,  xcviii.  379). 

Penzoldt  states  that  of  all  diseases  asthma  with  emphysema  is  most  benefited  by  it,  and 
that  it  does  not  fail  of  its  effects  even  when  pleurisy  or  bronchitis  is  also  present.  In  phthisis, 
bronchial  asthma , and  some  diseases  of  the  heart  its  palliative  action  was  marked,  and  was 
also  evident  in  a case  of  pulmonary  embolism ; but  when  the  heart-muscle  was  weak  the 
influence  of  the  medicine  was  not  salutary,  nor  indeed  in  any  case  in  which  the  condition 
of  that  organ  was  the  primary  cause  of  the  dyspnoea.  In  this  respect  it  is  no  substitute 
for  digitalis.  In  a case. of  uraemic  asthma  it  was  very  efficient.  In  opposition  to  one  of 
these  statements,  Berthold  reports  two  cases  of  fatty  degeneration  of  the  heart  in  which 
the  dyspnoea  was  greatly  relieved  by  the  medicine  (Bull,  de  Therap.,  xcviii.  379),  but  it 
is  probable  that  the  dyspnoea  arose  from  some  other  cause  added  to  the  degeneration  of 
the  heart-tissue.  In  a word,  the  medicine  appears  to  be  a palliative  for  the  symptom 
dyspnoea ; the  degree  and  the  duration  of  the  relief  which  it  affords  will  in  each  case 
depend  upon  the  nature  and  the  degree  of  the  physical  cause  of  that  symptom.  In  this 
country  we  have  the  statement  that  the  late  I)r.  Austin  Flint  tried  quebracho  in  several 
cases  of  dyspnoea  from  phthisis  and  pneumonia  without  avail,  but  that  in  extreme  cases 
of  dyspnoea  from  mitral  regurgitation  it  was  very  efficacious  (Med  News,  May,  1881,  p. 
273).  Dr.  Andrew  H.  Smith  has  reported  the  results  of  his  use  of  the  medicine  in 
thirty-two  cases  of  various  diseases,  including  eleven  of  spasmodic  asthma.  Of  the  latter, 
nine  cases  were  relieved,  and  of  the  total  number  of  cases,  including  diseases  of  the 
lungs,  heart,  and  kidneys,  twenty-two  were  benefited  more  or  less  (Med.  Record,  xx.  559). 
Quite  a similar  result  is  reported  by  Gottheil  (ibid.,  xxiv.  259),  by  Mariasi  (Bull,  de 
Therap.,  cv.  311),  by  DaCosta  (Boston  Med.  and  Burg.  Jour.,  Dec.  1883,  p.  620),  and  by 
Maragliano  (Centralblatt  f.  d.  g.  Therapie , ii.  63).  It  is  difficult  to  assign  to  the  medicine 
its  precise  clinical  value,  but  the  general  impression  conveyed  by  a study  of  its  effects 
is;  that  the  more  nearly  the  symptom  dyspnoea  is  independent  of  an  organic  cause  the 
better  will  be  the  influence  of  the  medicine  upon  it.  Harnack  and  Hoffmann  attribute 
the  relief  afforded  by  it  in  part  to  its  sedative  and  nauseating  action,  and  point  to  the 
analogy  of  similar  effects  produced  by  various  emetics.  The  close  functional  and 
mechanical  relations  of  the  lungs  and  heart  are  here  to  be  taken  into  account.  Fluid 
extract  of  quebracho  has  been,  like  compound  tincture  of  benzoin,  applied  to  protect 
and  stimulate  wounds. 

The  preparation  recommended  by  Penzoldt  is  as  follows  : Take  10  parts  of  the  powdered 
bark  ; treat  for  several  days  with  100  parts  of  alcohol ; evaporate  the  latter,  and  dissolve 
the  extract  in  20  parts  of  warm  water.  Dose , 1 or  2 teaspoonfuls  three  times  a day. 
The  solution,  he  says,  is  of  a clear  sherry  color,  has  a slightly  astringment  and  aromatic 
taste,  and  is  not  hard  to  take.  Huchard  states  that  commercial  aspidospermine  really 
contains  all  the  alkaloids  of  quebracho.  According  to  Maragliano,  quebrachine  and 
aspidospermine  act  in  about  half  an  hour  by  the  mouth  and  in  from  5 to  10  minutes 
hypodermically.  For  the  latter  purpose  he  employed  the  sulphate  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.05— 
0.10  (gr.  j-ij),  and  a solution  of  1 grain  in  15  grains  of  water  caused  neither  local  nor 
general  disturbance.  The  muriate  has  also  been  employed. 


A TROPIN  A. 


305 


ATROPINA,  U.  S.,  B)\,  F.  Cod.—  Atropine. 

Atropia , Atropinum. — Atropia , E.  ; Atropine , Fr. ; Atropin , G. 

Formula  C17H23N03.  Molecular  weight  288.38. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Belladonna-Root,  recently  dried  and  in  coarse  powder,  2 
pounds  ; Rectified  Spirit  10  pints  ; Slaked  Lime  1 ounce ; Diluted  Sulphuric  Acid,  Potas- 
sium Carbonate,  each  a sufficiency  ; Chloroform  3 fluidounces  ; Purified  Animal  Charcoal 
a sufficiency  ; Distilled  Water  10  fluidounces.  Macerate  the  root  in  4 pints  of  the  spirit 
for  twenty-four  hours,  with  frequent  stirring.  Transfer  to  a displacement  apparatus,  and 
exhaust  the  root  with  the  remainder  of  the  spirit  by  slow  percolation.  Add  the  lime  to 
the  tincture  placed  in  a bottle  and  shake  them  occasionally  several  times.  Filter,  add  the 
diluted  sulphuric  acid  in  very  feeble  excess  to  the  filtrate,  and  filter  again.  Distil  off 
three-fourths  of  the  spirit,  add  to  the  residue  the  distilled  water ; evaporate  at  a gentle 
heat,  but  as  rapidly  as  possible,  until  the  liquor  is  reduced  to  one-third  of  its  volume  and 
no  longer  smells  of  alcohol ; then  let  it  cool.  Add  very  cautiously,  with  constant  stirring, 
a solution  of  the  potassium  carbonate,  so  as  to  nearly  neutralize  the  acid,  care,  however, 
being  taken  that  an  excess  is  not  used.  Set  to  rest  for  six  hours,  then  filter,  and  add  potas- 
sium carbonate  in  such  quantity  that  the  liquid  shall  acquire  a decided  alkaline  reaction. 
Place  it  in  a bottle  with  the  chloroform,  mix  well  by  frequently-repeated  brisk  agitations, 
and  pour  the  mixed  liquids  into  a funnel  furnished  with  a glass  stopcock.  When  the 
chloroform  has  subsided,  draw  it  off  by  the  stopcock,  and  distil  it  by  a water-bath  from  a 
retort  connected  with  a condenser.  Dissolve  the  residue  in  warm  rectified  spirit ; digest 
the  solution  with  a little  animal  charcoal ; filter,  evaporate,  and  cool  until  colorless  crys- 
tals are  obtained. — Br. 

The  British  process  is  that  proposed  by  Mein,  except  that  the  alkaloid,  instead  of  being 
simply  precipitated  from  the  watery  solution  of  its  sulphate,  is  removed  by  agitation  with 
chloroform,  in  accordance  with  the  suggestion  of  Rabourdin  (1850).  The  lime,  on  being 
agitated  with  the  tincture  of  the  root,  removes  considerable  resin  and  fat,  the  little  lime 
which  enters  into  solution  being  afterward  precipitated  by  sulphuric  acid  as  calcium 
sulphate,  while  the  atropine  remains  in  the  liquid  as  sulphate,  which  is  readily  soluble  in 
alcohol  and  water.  On  neutralizing  the  free  acid  with  potassium  carbonate  another 
quantity  of  resin  is  separated,  and  on  rendering  the  liquid  alkaline  the  atropine  is  set  free, 
and  is  taken  up  by  the  chloroform  on  being  agitated  with  it.  Treatment  with  alcohol  and 
animal  charcoal  is  resorted  to  for  the  purpose  of  removing  the  last  traces  of  coloring  mat- 
ter and  obtaining  the  alkaloid  crystallized. 

A process  similar  to  the  preceding  was  proposed  by  Prof.  Wm.  Procter,  Jr.,  in  1860, 
who,  after  treating  the  tincture  with  lime  and  sulphuric  acid  and  evaporating  the  alcohol, 
as  described  above,  removed  most  of  the  remaining  oil  and  resin  by  diluting  the  residue 
with  water,  filtering,  and  agitating  with  chloroform,  in  which  the  sulphate  of  atropine  is 
insoluble ; after  the  addition  of  caustic  potassa,  chloroform  was  used  for  extracting  the 
alkaloid,  of  which  0.39  per  cent,  was  obtained  in  a crystalline  condition  and  of  a fawn 
color,  which  was  removed  by  treating  the  alcoholic  solution  with  animal  charcoal.  The 
process  of  the  U.  S.  P.  1870  arrived  at  the  same  result  by  converting  the  alkaloid  con- 
tained in  the  tincture  of  belladonna-root  into  a sulphate.  After  most  of  the  alcohol  had 
been  distilled  off,  the  residuary  liquid  was  poured  into  water,  which  retained  the  sulphate 
of  atropine  in  solution,  while  nearly  all  the  resin  and  oil  was  separated  and  removed  by 
filtration.  By  means  of  potassa  and  chloroform  the  alkaloid  was  obtained,  on  evaporat- 
ing the  latter,  in  yellowish  crystals,  which,  although  then  considered  sufficiently  pure  for 
medicinal  purposes,  contain  variable  amounts  of  impurities ; these,  however,  are  removed 
without  much  trouble  and  loss  by  recrystallization  from  alcohol  of  50  per  cent. 

In  all  the  above-mentioned  processes  it  is  of  importance  that  the  treatment  with  the 
alkalies  and  alkali  carbonate  should  take  place  at  a low  temperature  and  not  be  unne- 
cessarily prolonged,  since  potassium  carbonate  alters  the  atropine  and  renders  it  inert 
when  acting  upon  its  aqueous  solution  at  an  elevated  temperature  ; caustic  potassa  effects 
a similar  decomposition  already  in  the  cold  during  a contact  for  24  hours. 

Properties  and  Tests. — Pure  atropine  is  in  colorless  or  white,  glossy  acicular  crys- 
tals without  odor,  and  has  a disagreeably  bitter  and  acrid  taste.  It  melts  at  113.5°  C. 
(236.3°  F.),  according  to  Ladenburg  (1880)  ; at  115.5°  C.  (240°  F.),  according  to  E. 
Schmidt  (1881);  when  carefully  heated  it  volatilizes  at  140°  C.  (284°  F.),  partly 
unchanged,  and  at  a higher  heat  is  completely  decomposed,  leaving  no  residue.  It  is  solu- 
ble in  300  parts  (Von  Planta),  500  parts  (Geiger),  130  parts  ( U . S.  P.),  of  water  at  15°  C. 
(59°  F.),  and  on  continued,  boiling  in  30  parts  of  boiling  water  (Geiger  and  Hesse). 


306 


A TROPIN jE  SULPHAS. 


It  is  very  freely  soluble  in  alcohol  (3  parts,  U.  £.),  dissolves  in  warm  oil  of  turpen- 
tine ; according  to  Geiger  and  Hesse,  in  63  parts  (16  parts,  U.  S.  P.)  of  ether,  in  4 parts 
of  chloroform,  38  parts  of  olive  oil,  also  in  50  parts  of  glycerin.  It  has  a strong  alkaline 
reaction  and  neutralizes  acids,  forming  salts  which  are  crystallizable  with  difficulty  and 
are  soluble  in  water  and  alcohol,  but  insoluble  in  ether  and  chloroform.  The  solutions  of 
the  salts  are  not  precipitated  by  platinic  chloride  except  when  very  concentrated ; their 
characteristic  reactions,  according  to  Ladenburg,  are  the  following : With  tannin,  a white 
precipitate  soluble  in  diluted  acids ; with  iodine,  a brown  oily  precipitate,  becoming 
crystalline ; with  potassio-mercuric  iodide,  a white  curdy  precipitate ; with  picric  acid, 
a crystalline  precipitate  ; with  chloride  of  gold,  a yellow  oily  precipitate,  crystallizing 
after  some  time,  the  dry  crystals  melting  at  135°  C.  (275°  F.),  and  when  recrystallized 
from  boiling  diluted  hydrochloric  acid  are  again  deposited  in  minute  crystals,  and  after 
drying  form  a dull,  lustreless  powder  (difference  from  hyoscyamine)  ; the  alcoholic  solu- 
tion of  atropine,  on  passing  cyanogen  gas  through  it,  becomes  blood-red  (Hinterberger, 
1851)  ; warmed  with  sulphuric  acid  and  potassium  bichromate  after  the  addition  of  water, 
atropine  develops  a pleasant  benzoin-like  odor,  the  liquid  becoming  green  (Ludwig,  1861)  ; 
with  cold  sulphuric  acid  it  yields  a colorless  solution,  and  on  warming  gives  an  odor 
resembling  orange-flowers  (Gulielmo,  1863).  The  sulphuric  acid  solution  is  not  colored 
red  by  nitric  acid  (difference  from  morphine,  narcotine,  etc.),  nor  blue  or  purple  by  man- 
ganese dioxide  or  potassium  bichromate  (difference  from  strychnine) ; the  last-named 
reagent  causes  a green  color. 

When  heated  with  baryta-water,  soda,  or  strong  hydrochloric  acid,  atropine  is  decom- 
posed, yielding  tropic  acid,  C9H10O3  (by  continued  action  atropic  and  isatropic  acids, 
C9H802),  and  tropine,  which  is  a crystallizable,  strongly  alkaline  compound  having  the 
formula  C8H15NO  (Kraut,  1863;  Lossau,  1864);  it  crystallizes  in  white  hygroscopic 
needles  or  plates,  is  freely  soluble  in  water,  alcohol,  and  ether,  and  may  be  distilled  in  a 
current  of  hydrogen.  Tropine  tropate  has  no  effect  on  the  eye,  but  when  heated  with 
excess  of  dilute  hydrochloric  acid  in  a water-bath  separates  at  first  an  oil,  and  when  now 
treated  with  potassium  carbonate  yields  atropine  (Ladenburg,  1879). 

According  to  Hiibschmann  (1858),  commercial  atropine  frequently  contains  an  uncrys- 
tallizable  alkaloid,  belladonnine , which  is  sparingly  soluble  in  water  and  has  a faintly  bit- 
ter, burning,  acrid  taste.  It  may  be  removed  from  atropine  by  adding  to  the  watery 
solution  of  the  salt  a small  quantity  of  carbonate  of  potassium,  when  it  is  precipitated 
before  any  atropine  is  liberated  ; its  identity  with  hyoscyamine  has  been  suggested  by 
Ladenburg.  But  Buchheim  (1876)  stated  that  it  is  decomposed  by  alcoholic  potassa 
(not  by  barium  hydrate)  into  tropine  and  belladonnic  acid.  In  1850,  Yon  Planta  stated 
atropine  to  be  chemically  identical  with  daturine,  the  alkaloid  of  stramonium  ; and  since 
that  time  it  is  said  the  latter  alkaloid  has  not  unfrequently  been  manufactured  and  sold 
as  atropine,  notwithstanding  the  researches  of  Yon  Schroff  and  others  have  proved  it  to 
exert  a more  powerful  physiological  action  than  the  latter.  Ladenburg  (1880)  has  shown 
that  after  the  removal  of  belladonnine  the  product  from  belladonna  consists  of  atropine, 
described  above,  and  a small  quantity  of  light  atropine  or  hyoscyamine,  while  daturine  is 
a mixture  of  the  same  two  alkaloids,  but  hyoscyamine  predominating. 

Apatropine , C17H21N02,  according  to  Pesci  (1882),  is  obtained  by  treating  atropine 
with  fuming  nitric  acid,  and  is  converted  into  hi/ dro-apoa tropine,  C17H13N02,  by  treatment 
with  sodium-amalgam. 

ATROPINES  SULPHAS,  77.  S.,  Br.— Atropine  Sulphate. 

Sulfas  atropinse , F.  Cod.  ; Atropimmi  sulfuricum , P.  G. — Sulphate  of  atropia , E. ; Sul- 
fate dl atropine,  Fr.  ; Atropinsulfat , Schwefelsaures  Atropin , G. 

Formula  (C17H23N03)2H2S04.  Molecular  weight  674.58. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Atropine  120  grains  ; Distilled  Water  4 fluidrachms  ; Diluted 
Sulphuric  Acid  a sufficiency.  Mix  the  atropine  with  the  water  and  add  the  acid  gradually, 
stirring  them  together  until  the  alkaloid  is  dissolved  and  the  solution  is  neutral.  Evap- 
orate it  to  dryness  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  37.7°  C.  (100°  F.). — Br. 

In  preparing  this  salt  it  is  important  that  the  acid  be  very  carefully  neutralized,  and 
that  in  evaporation  the  heat  be  cautiously  applied.  The  salt  is  left  behind  in  an  amor- 
phous condition,  but  may  be  obtained  crystalline  by  dissolving  it  in  absolute  alcohol  and 
evaporating  spontaneously,  or  by  pouring  this  solution  into  anhydrous  ether.  Ch.  Maitre 
(1856)  proposed  a process  which  was  rec.ognized  in  the  U.  S.  P.  1870.  The  atropine  is 
dissolved  in  anhydrous  ether,  and  sulphuric  acid  diluted  with  strong  alcohol  is  carefully 


A TROPIN JE  SULPHAS. 


307 


dropped  in  until  the  liquid  just  acquires  a permanent  acid  reaction;  the  precipitate  is 
washed  with  a little  ether  and  dried  at  a low  temperature. 

Properties. — Atropine  sulphate  is  “ permanent  in  the  air,  colorless,  having  a very 
bitter,  nauseating  taste  and  a neutral  reaction  ; soluble  in  0.4  part  of  water  and  in  6.5 
parts  of  alcohol  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  ; 2270  parts  of  ether,  or  694  parts  of  chloroform. 
When  heated  on  platinum-foil  the  salt  is  decomposed  and  wholly  dissipated,  emitting 
acrid  vapors.  On  adding  test-solution  of  sodium  carbonate  to  a concentrated  aqueous 
solution  of  the  salt  a white  precipitate  is  obtained,  which  answers  to  the  reactions  of 
atropine.  (See  Atropina.)  The  salt  or  its  solution  when  applied  to  the  eye  strongly 
dilates  the  pupil.  An  aqueous  solution  of  the  salt  yields  with  test-solution  of  barium 
chloride  a white  precipitate  insoluble  in  hydrochloric  acid.” — U.  S.  “It  is  soluble  in  3 
parts  of  alcohol  sp.  gr.  832,  in  1 part  of  water,  and  is  insoluble  in  ether  and  in  chloro- 
form. Heat  .01  Grin,  of  it  in  a test-tube  until  white  vapors  are  visible;  then  add  1.5 
Cc.  sulphuric  acid ; heat  again  until  the  mixture  begins  to  turn  brown,  and  dilute  with 
2 Gm.  of  water;  a characteristic  very  agreeable  odor  should  be  given  off;  now  add  a 
small  crystal  of  potassium  permanganate,  when  the  odor  of  oil  of  bitter  almonds  should 
be  developed.  The  aqueous  solution  should  be  rendered  turbid  by  solution  of  soda,  but 
not  by  ammonia-water;  1 part  of  the  salt  dissolved  in  1000  parts  of  water  should  have 
a distinct  acrid  and  bitter  taste.” — P.  G. 

Allied  Salt. — Atropine  salicylas,  Atropine  salicylate , is  prepared  by  Tichborne  (1877) 
by  dissolving  289  grains  of  atropine  and  1 38  grains  of  salicylic  acid  in  about  20  ounces  of 
water,  and  evaporating,  when  432  grains  of  the  salt  will  be  obtained  as  an  uncrystallizable 
colloidal  mass,  which  it  is  difficult  to  powder,  and  which  is  soluble  in  alcohol  and  in  20  parts 
of  water  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.). 

Action  and  Uses. — Herbivorous  animals  and  birds  are  but  little  affected  by  doses 
of  atropine  or.  its  salts,  which  are  fatal  to  carnivora  ; pigeons  will  often  recover  after  the 
hypodermic  injection  of  2 grains  of  the  alkaloid,  and  their  pupils  are  not  dilated  by  any 
dose  of  it.  Even  upon  dogs  the  toxical  action  of  atropine  is  relatively  slight.  The 
injection  of  2 or  3 grains  into  the  connective  tissue  of  these  animals  may  produce  a stag- 
gering gait  and  agitation  ; and  the  same  quantity  thrown  into  the  crural  vein,  although 
it  may  cause  rigidity  and  apparent  death,  will  not  necessarily  destroy  the  animal’s  life. 
In  a few  hours  it  may  appear  entirely  well.  The  action  upon  the  several  physiological 
systems  varies  with  the  dose  of  atropine.  In  non-poisonous  doses  it  raises  the  tempera- 
ture, causes  great  acceleration  of  the  heart’s  action  with  a tonic  contraction  of  the 
ventricles,  and  also  a primary  contraction  followed  by  dilatation  of  the  blood-vessels, 
while  a general  quieting  effect  on  the  cerebro-spinal  system  is  observed.  Poisonous  doses 
seem  to  render  morbidly  acute  the  general  and  the  special  senses,  although  the  percep- 
tions do  not  appear  to  be  normal,  and  there  is  no  tendency  to  narcotism.  Heath,  appa- 
rently, is  due  to  exhaustion  of  the  forces  which  move  the  heart  and  the  respiratory 
organs,  and  is  preceded  by  general  muscular  paralysis.  On  examination  the  heart, 
lungs,  and  brain  are  found  surcharged  with  blood.  The  experiments  of  Cavazzani  on 
frogs  seem  to  show  that  the  action  of  atropine  on  the  circulation  is  to  weaken,  and  then 
paralyze,  the  heart,  while  it  constricts  the  capillaries,  and  that  either  in  this  manner  or 
more  directly  the  red  blood-corpuscles  lose  their  power  of  absorbing  oxygen  ( Phila . Med. 

Times , ix.  623).  Experimenters  are  generally  agreed  that  the  action  of  moderate  doses 
of  atropine  upon  the  heart  is  nearly  the  same  as  that  of  cocaine. 

The  pupils  of  a nursing  infant  are  dilated  by  the  milk  of  its  mother  using  belladonna 
or  atropine  ( Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  Sept.  1886,  p.  242).  In  man  the  hypodermic 
injection  of  one-twentieth  of  a grain  of  atropine  causes  the  pulse  in  twenty  minutes  to 
rise  from  72  to  110,  the  mouth  to  grow  dry,  and  the  pupils  to  begin  to  dilate;  the 
sight  grows  indistinct,  and  usually  there  are  grotesque  hallucinations,  and  sometimes 
actual  delirium  ; there  is  giddiness,  with  an  inclination  to  sleep,  and  the  dryness  of  the 
mouth  and  throat  may  last  for  twenty-four  hours,  with  dysphagia,  anaesthesia,  aphonia, 
more  or  less  nervousness  and  instability  in  walking.  An  erythematous  eruption  of 
the  skin  closely  resembling  that  of  scarlatina  is  generally  observed  (e.  g.  Med.  Record , 
xxiii.  457),  but  occasionally  there  is  an  “ erythematous  and  pseudo-erysipelatous  swell- 
ing of  the  face  and  neck”  ( Times  and  Gaz.,  April,  1880,  p.  431).  Epistaxis  has  fol- 
lowed the  instillation  of  a solution  of  atropine  into  the  eye  ( Centralbl.  f.  Therap.,  viii. 
169).  Homatropine  is  not  free  from  the  risk  of  causing  glaucoma,  as  atropine  does,  of 
which  an  illustration  may  be  found  in  Quart.  Epit.  Amer.  Med.  and  Surg.,  vi.  366. 
(Compare  Stewart,  Med.  News,  Hi.  234.) 

For  the  relief  of  pain  atropine  is,  next  to  opium,  of  the  highest  valine,  and  especially 


308 


ATROPINJE  SULPHAS. 


for  two  of  its  severest  forms,  the  pain  of  neuralgia  and  the  pain  of  spasm.  It  should  be 
employed  for  both  hypodermically.  Sciatica  is  the  most  unyielding,  and  intercostal 
neuralgia  the  most  amenable,  to  this  medicine.  Neuralgia  of  the  trigeminus  holds  in 
this  respect  a middle  position.  In  sciatica  the  dose  must  be  large.  One-sixteenth  of  a 
grain  has  been  used  with  curative  effect.  For  the  pain  of  cancer  and  other  local  pains 
of  analogous  origin  a solution  of  1 part  of  atropine  in  1000  of  water  has  been  applied 
with  great  advantage  on  compresses  covered  with  oiled  silk  or  sheet  rubber  (Auger).  A 
1 per  cent,  solution  instilled  into  the  ear  is  one  of  the  most  efficient  remedies  for  earache , 
especially  when  due  to  inflammation  of  the  middle  ear.  If  given  early  in  the  attack,  it 
is  often  successful  in  arresting  coryza.  Spasm  itself,  as  it  occurs  in  tetanus  and  in  poison- 
ing by  strychnine , has  been  successfully  combated  by  the  hypodermic  use  of  atropine. 
In  such  cases  the  dose  must  be  large,  being  not  less  then  one-twentieth  of  a grain 
repeated  at  intervals  of  not  more  than  an  hour  until  its  characteristic  effects  are 
developed.  In  a case  of  traumatic  tetanus  the  dose,  varying  from  to  -fa  of  a grain,  was 
given  from  two  to  four  times  a day  for  eleven  days,  when  convalescence  was  established. 
The  usual  physiological  effects  of  the  drug  were  not  developed  ( Practitioner , xxiii.  209). 
Hypodermic  injections  of  atropine  have  repeatedly  been  used  to  relieve  or  cure  wryneck 
since  they  were  first  proposed  by  Hr.  DaCosta  ( Penna . Hosp.  Rep.,  1868,  p.  391).  As 
more  convenient  for  administration  than  belladonna,  atropine  may  be  used  in  the  treat- 
ment of  whooping  cough , in  the  dose  of  yl^-  grain  once  a day  or  oftener,  and  avoiding 
the  production  of  its  physiological  effects.  Various  other  forms  of  spasm  are  more  or 
less  subject  to  the  power  of  this  medicine.  They  will  be  found  more  fully  described  in 
connection  with  Belladonna,  but  it  may  be  stated  that  almost  every  spasmodic  affection 
may  be  influenced  by  that  medicine  or  by  atropine.  Sulphate  of  atropine  administered 
hypodermically  in  the  dose  of  from  y-J-^  to  fa  of  a grain  has  prevented  the  full  develop- 
ment of  the  epileptic  paroxysm  and  lessened  the  frequency  of  its  occurrence.  Indeed,  it 
has  been  claimed  to  be  more  certain  in  its  results,  and  attended  with  less  inconvenience 
to  the  patients,  than  bromide  of  potassium  (Weiss,  Centralbl.  f.  Therapie,  i.  268).  In 
the  following  spasmodic  disorders  it  may  also  be  employed : spasm  of  the  anus,  the 
urethra,  the  bladder , the  ureter,  the  uterus,  the  vagina,  the  rectum,  the  large  and  small  intes- 
tine, the  biliary  ducts , the  bronchia , the  larynx,  the  oesophagus,  etc.  In  all  of  these 
affections  the  hypodermic  injection  of  atropine  may  be  substituted  for  the  use  of  any 
preparation  of  belladonna,  internal  or  local.  In  the  very  opposite  condition  which  occurs 
in  poisoning  by  Calabar  bean  it  has  been  proved  that  atropine  is  a true  antidote  in  nearly 
the  whole  range  of  its  action.  But  atropine  counteracts  or  prevents  the  lethal  action  of 
physostigma  when  given  in  doses  which  are  far  below  the  minimum  fatal  doses  of  the 
former.  Sulphate  of  atropine  should  be  injected  subcutaneously  in  doses  of  from  fa  to 
fa  of  a grain,  and  repeated  until  the  pupils  become  dilated,  the  pulse-rate  increased,  and 
the  secretion  of  bronchial  mucus  is  checked.  The  therapeutical  antagonism  of  bella- 
donna and  atropine  to  opium  and  morphine  is  confirmed  by  many  cases  of  opium-poisoning 
treated  by  the  hypodermic  injection  of  atropine.  Johnson  of  Shanghai  is. said  to  have 
used  this  treatment  successfully  in  upward  of  three  hundred  cases  ( Practitioner , xxvi. 
138).  The  hypodermic  dose  of  atropine  and  the  frequency  of  its  repetition  have  varied  in 
different  cases  between  remote  extremes.  In  one  case,  for  example,  five  doses,  each  of  y1^ 
grain,  were  given  within  as  many  hours,  and  the  case  was  of  a desperate  character,  but 
ended  in  recovery  ( Med . News,  xl.  318).  In  another  instance  with  a like  termination  y1^ 
grain  of  atropine  was  injected,  and  afterward  \ grain  ( Practitioner , xxiii.  123).  It  is 
evident  that  the  dose  must  be  determined  by  the  exigencies  of  each  case.  Among  the 
most  striking  of  recent  cases  in  which  atropine  proved  an  antidote  to  morphine  in  enor- 
mous doses  are  these : A woman  who  took  15  grains  of  sulphate  of  morphine  (King, 
Med.  News,  xl.  68) ; one  who  took  10  grains  of  morphine  sulphate  (Stuver,  Med.  News. 
xli.  592)  ; a man  who  in  the  course  of  four  hours  took  30  grains  of  sulphate  of  mor- 
phine (Clarke,  Med.  Record,  xxvi.  514)  ; a pregnant  woman  who  had  taken  a like  quan- 
tity of  the  acetate  of  morphine  (Forster,  Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  Mar.  1885, 
p.  267)  ; and  another  woman,  who  took  about  30  grains  of  acetate  of  morphine  and  half 
an  ounce  of  tincture  of  opium  (Javorsky,  Jour.  Amer.  Med.  Assoc.,  vi.  517).  It  has 
been  proposed  to  use  atropine  as  a physiological  antidote  to  chloroform  by  administering 
a hypodermic  injection  of  jfa  to  grain  of  atropine  with  § or  fa  grain  of  a morphine 
salt  before  the  inhalation  of  the  anaesthetic  is  commenced  (Fraser).  An  important 
advantage  of  this  expedient  is  that  the  senses  of  the  patient  are  blunted  and  he  is  not 
apt  to  become  excited,  as  when  the  anaesthetic  is  administered  without  such  prepara- 
tion. A less  quantity  of  the  latter  is  required,  and  its  influence  is  prolonged,  and  the 


ATROPINJE  SULPHAS. 


309 


patient  therefore  remains  passive  for  a longer  time.  Dr.  J.  C.  Reeve,  who  advocated  this 
method,  stated  that  the  amount  generally  used  by  him  “ was  seven  to  ten  minims  of  a 

solution  of  16  grains  of  morphine  and  2 grain  of  atropine  to  the  ounce  of  water 

Fifteen  to  twenty  minutes  should  elapse  between  the  administration  of  the  hypodermic 
injection  and  the  beginning  of  the  administration  of  the  anesthetic.”  (Jour.  Amer.  Med. 
Assoc.,  ii.  233.)  A similar  use  of  atropine  has  been  advocated  in  ether  narcosis  by 
Amidon,  except  that  he  would  have  it  administered  to  overcome  the  symptoms  when 
they  arise  (Med.  Record , xxvii.  477).  The  effects  of  he  at -exhaust  ion  (one  of  the  forms 
of  sunstroke)  have  been  treated  with  alleged  success  by  the  hypodermic  injection  of 
atropine,  strengthening  the  heart,  stimulating  the  brain,  restoring  consciousness,  and 
preserving  life ; and  so  have  those  of  nervous  shock. 

In  various  diseases  of  the  eye  the  use  of  atropine  is  appropriate  ; it  was  formerly 
employed  for  dilating  the  j pupil,  so  as  to  permit  the  inspection  of  the  parts  behind  the 
iris,  and  to  facilitate  operations  for  cataract , etc.,  but  owing  to  its  more  transient  action, 
homatropine  is  to  be  preferred  for  this  purpose,  and  also  because  it  is  less  irritating  than 
atropine.  When  prolapse  of  the  iris  takes  place  through  a corneal  ulcer,  or  when  adhe- 
sion occurs  between  the  two,  the  action  of  atropine,  by  contracting  the  iris  toward  its 
periphery,  tends  to  prevent  permanent  deformity  of  the  organ  and  impairment  of  the  sight. 
Myopia , or  short-sightedness,  being  often  produced  by  an  excessive  strain  of  the  eyes 
through  spasm  of  accommodation,  may  sometimes  be  prevented  from  reaching  its  full 
development  by  resting  the  organs  and  maintaining  for  several  weeks  a paralysis  of 
accommodation  by  means  of  atropine.  By  a similar  method  it  is  claimed  that  a number 
of  cases  of  strabismus  in  its  early  stage  have  been  cured  (Phila.  Med.  Times , xi.  144). 
Atropine  should  never  be  used  in  glaucoma.  It  has,  indeed,  been  objected  to  atropine 
in  all  diseases  of  the  eye  that  it  irritates  the  conjunctiva,  causing  oedema  of  this  tissue 
and  of  the  eyelids,  and  that  the  tension  it  produces  of  the  eyeball  in  certain  cases  endangers 
the  safety  of  the  organ.  It  is  probably  through  the  power  involved  in  its  various  actions 
that  atropine  has  been  found  efficient  in  profuse  sweating  and  also  in  sialorrlioea,  galac- 
torrlioea , and  metrorrhagia.  The  power  of  sulphate  of  atropine  to  control  the  night-sweats  of 
phthisis  and  other  debilitating  diseases  is  well  established.  About  grain  hypoder- 
mically is  the.  average  commencing  dose  required.  The  condition  of  the  patient  in  other 
respects  need  not  influence  the  use  of  the  medicine — not  even  the  fact  of  perspiration 
having  already  commenced.  Sometimes  existing  profuse  perspiration  is  checked  by  the 
medicine  within  a few  minutes.  Its  effects  may  also  extend  over  several  nights,  but 
occasionally  they  are  not  immediate,  but  are  developed  at  the  end  of  twenty-four  hours 
or  more.  It  is  not  essential  to  give  the  injection  at  bed-time.  It  may  be  administered 
hypodermically,  or  by  the  mouth  in  camphor-water,  or  in  pill.  In  the  latter  way  the 
commencing  dose  should  be  about  grain  ( Practitioner , xxiii.  93).  Atropine  is  a 
physiological  antidote  to  jaborandi  and  pilocarpine,  and  arrests  the  profuse  sweats  they 
cause.  Homatropine,  used  for  the  same  purpose,  is  decidedly  inferior  not  only  to  atro- 
pine, but  also  to  “ Dover’s  powder,  picrotoxin,  and  other  means  ” (Murrell).  Fronmiil- 
ler,  however,  states  that  in  a case  of  profuse  sweating  and  salivation  produced  by  pilo- 
carpine these  symptoms  disappeared  within  two  minutes  after  the  injection  of  gr.  ^ of 
hydrobromate  of  homatropine  (Med.  News , xlii.  556).  Atropine  has  been  found  useful 
in  serous  diarrhoea;  in  the  salivation  of  the  insane;  in  the  forming  stage  of  coryza, 
when  given  in  very  minute  doses  (Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  Aug.  1883,  p.  151)  ; and  in 
incontinence  of  urine  and  oesophagism  (Girard,  Bull,  de  Therap.,  xcviii.  481).  In  regard  to 
the  former  affection,  it  should  be  observed  that  the  infirmity  is  only  suspended  while  the 
action  of  the  medicine  is  maintained ; when  this  ceases  the  eneuresis,  in  most  cases, 
returns.  In  spermatorrhoea , due  to  atony  and  morbid  irritability  of  the  genital  system, 
erections  may  be  produced  by  the  use  of  atropine  and  the  passive  seminal  discharges 
arrested.  Menorrhagia,  has  been  controlled  by  injecting  hypodermically  grain  of 
atropine  twice  a day  (Tacke).  A similar  hypodermic  dose  is  one  of  the  means  which 
may  be  used  to  check  pulmonary  haemorrhage  (Ilausmann,  Therap.  Monatsch.,  Jan.  1887; 
Sterling,  Therap.  Gaz.,  xiii.  101),  and  also  to  control  non-mercurial  ptyalism  (Bull,  de 
Therap.,  cxi.  470).  A like  dose,  given  internally  and  repeated  until  its  specific  effects 
appear,  has  been  found  useful  in  hay  fever  (Med.  News.,  liii.  305).  Urticaria  has  been 
cured,  temporarily  at  least,  by  means  of  y1^  grain  of  sulphate  of  atropine  taken  twice  a day 
(Schwimmer).  The  antagonism  of  atropine  and  prussic  acid  has  been  both  maintained  and 
denied;  but  even  if  it  were  real  in  a physiological  sense,  it  would  practically  be  of  little 
importance,  since  the  rapid  action  of  a lethal  dose  of  prussic  acid  cannot  be  overtaken 
by  the  slower  operation  of  atropine.  This  alkaloid,  used  along  with  morphine  in  hypo- 


310 


A URANTIUM  AM  A RUM. 


dermic  injections,  tends  to  prevent  the  nausea  and  vomiting  which  are  apt  to  be  caused 
by  morphine  alone. 

Atropine  has  also  been  used  hypodermically  in  chloroform  syncope  (Reeve).  Ilom- 
atropine  hydrobromate , which  is,  on  the  whole,  inferior  to  atropine,  is  claimed  by  Jackson 
(. Med . News,  xlix.  88)  to  be  a perfectly  reliable  mydriatic  when  applied  in  a sufficient 
quantity  by  cumulative  instillation.  Atropine  santonate  is  recommended  by  Bombelon 
as  perfectly  unirritating,  and  not  liable,  in  solution,  to  fungoid  growths.  Its  action  is 
said  to  be  mild,  like  that  of  homatropine,  while  as  a mydriatic  it  is  equal  to  atropine  sul- 
phate ; “ one  drop  of  a solution  of  0.01  grain  in  20  grains  (1  : 2000)  of  water  is  suffi- 
cient to  dilate  the  pupil  in  six  minutes,  the  dilatation  disappearing  in  from  ten  to  twen- 
ty-four hours”  ( Edin . Med.  Jour .,  xxxii.  79;  Practitioner , xxxviii.  458). 

Except  where  otherwise  stated,  a solution  of  atropine  used  for  any  of  the  above  pur- 
poses, including  hypodermic  injection,  should  not  exced  the  strength  of  1 part  in  100  of 
water.  Dr.  Squibb  recommends  a solution  of  2 grains  of  the  sulphate  in  a fluidounce 
of  water.  Of  this  each  fluidrachm  contains  one-quarter  of  a grain  of  the  salt.  About 
Gm.  0.01  (n^iv)  of  this  solution  is  regarded  as  the  maximum  dose  for  an  adult  to  begin 
with.  Either  solution  may  be  applied  to  the  eye  by  means  of  a fine  camel’s-hair  brush, 
while  the  lower  punctum  lachrymale  is  compressed  to  prevent  the  passage  of  the  solution 
into  the  nasal  passages  and  its  consequent  absorption.  Several  cases  of  atropine-poison- 
ing have  arisen  in  this  manner.  Klein  recommends  a mixture  of  1 part  of  sulphate  of 
atropine  to  200  parts  of  vaseline  as  preferable  to  a solution.  Thin  gelatin  disks,  imbued 
with  a solution  of  the  salt,  1 : 100,  are  sometimes  inserted  between  the  lower  lid  and  the 
eyeball,  in  order  to  prevent  the  accident  just  alluded  .to.  A solution  of  homatropine 
hydrobromate  containing  Gm.  1 to  Gm.  32  (gr.  xv  to  f^j)  of  distilled  water  is  con- 
venient for  ophthalmological  purposes.  An  ointment  of  atropine  may  be  used  contain- 
ing Gm.  0.06  to  Gm.  4.00  (gr.  i-^j)  of  lard). 

Scopoline,  an  alkaloid  discovered  in  Scopolia  japonica , dilates  the  pupil  more  rapidly 
than  atropine,  and  for  a longer  time.  On  the  third  day  the  pupils  are  more  dilated  than 
after  the  instillation  of  atropine.  It  appears  not  to  irritate  the  conjunctiva,  and  is  a 
strong  antagonist  to  eserine. 

Ephedrin,  the  alkaloid  of  E.  helvetica,  (or  according  to  others,  of  E.  monostachya), 
in  combination  with  muriatic  acid,  has  been  proposed  by  Nagai  of  Tokio,  Japan,  as  a 
superior  mydriatic.  It  killed  frogs  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.008-010  (i  to  £ gr.),  gradually 
producing  paralysis,  arrest  of  breathing,  dilatation  of  the  pupils,  and  death  with  dilated 
heart.  Mammalia  were  similarly  affected.  In  man  one  or  two  drops  of  a 10  per  cent, 
solution  occasioned  dilatation  of  the  pupil  in  from  five  to  twenty  hours,  but  was  in  no 
case  complete.  The  advantages  of  this  preparation  are  denied  by  Konigstein,  who 
declares  that  ephedrin  is  an  inconvenient  mydriatic  on  account  of  the  long  time  required 
to  develop  its  effects  ( Gentralbl.  f d.  Therap.,  v.  649.)  On  the  other  hand,  its  cheap- 
ness, easy  preparation,  and  innocuousness  are  thought  to  give  it  a superiority  over  hom- 
atropine. Wreise  alleges  that  ephedra  contains  two  alkaloids,  ephedrin  and  pseudo-ephe- 
drin,  of  which  the  latter  is  the  more  efficient  as  a mydriatic  (Med.  Mews,  lv.  11). 

AURANTIUM  AMARUM,  U.  S,,  Br P.  G. — Bitter  Orange. 

Orange  amere , Fr. ; Pomeranze , G. ; Arancio  amaro , A.  forte,  It. ; Naranjo , Sp. 

Citrus  vulgaris,  Risso,  s.  C.  Aurantium,  var,  amara,  Linne , s.  C.  Bigaradia,  Duhamel. 
Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 50. 

Nat.  Ord. — Aurantiaceae. 

Official  Parts.  — 1.  Aurantii  amari  cortex,  U.  S. ; Aurantii  cortex,  Br. ; Cortex 
fructus  aurantii,  P.  G. ; Cortex  aurantiorum,  Cortex  pomorum  aurantii. — Bitter  orange- 
peel,  E. ; Ecorce  ( zestes ) d' orange  amere , Ecorce  de  higarade,  Fr.  ; Pomeranzenschale , G. ; 
Corteccia  arancio  amaro , F.  It. ; Curazao , Sp. 

The  rind  of  the  fruit. 

2.  Aurantii  fructus,  Br. ; Poma  aurantiorum,  Aurantia. — Seville  Orange,  Bitter  Orange , 
E. ; Orange  amere,  Bigarade,  Fr.  ; Pomeranzen,  G.  ; Naranjo  agrio,  Sp. 

The  ripe  fruit. 

Origin. — The  bigarade  orange  is  a small  tree  which  is  indigenous  to  the  northern 
portion  of  India,  but  is  largely  cultivated  near  the  Mediterranean,  and  in  some  of  the 
West  India  Islands,  and  in  that  part  of  the  United  States  which  borders  on  the  Gulf  of 


A URANTIUM  AMARU M. 


311 

Mexico.  It  closely  resembles  tlie  sweet  orange,  excepting  in  the  fruit,  leaves,  and  flowers, 
the  latter  being  more  fragrant. 

Description. — 1.  The  Fruit.  The  unripe  fruit  falling  from  the  tree  is  collected 
and  extensively  used  on  the  continent  of  Europe,  where  it  is  known  as  orange-berries  (E.), 
orangettes  or  petits  grains  (Fr.),  Unreife  Pomeranzen  (G.),  and  is  officinal  as  Fructus 

Fig.  35. 


Fig.  36. 


Citrus  vulgaris,  Risso.  Orange-peel ; transverse  section ; mag.  65  diam. 

( Baccse ) aurantii  immatnri  vel  Aurantia  immatura , P.  G.  They  are  globular  or  ovate- 
globose,  3—15  Mm.  to  f inch)  in  diameter,  with  a circular  depressed  scar  at  the  base 
surrounded  by  eight  to  twelve  smaller  depressions,  and  with  a slightly  projecting  rem- 
nant of  the  style  at  the  apex.  They  are  greenish  to  brownish-black  in  color,  densely 
rugose,  and  consist  of  eight  to  ten  or  twelve  cells  having  a central  placenta,  and  two 
rows  of  ovules  in  each  cell.  Their  odor  is  agreeably  aromatic,  their  taste  aromatic  and 
bitter,  the  aromatic  properties  being  due  to  a volatile  oil  which  is  contained  in  large  oil- 
cells  situated  in  the  pericarp  near  the  epidermis. 

The  ripe  fruit  is  of  the  size  and  shape  of  a sweet  orange,  but  is  rougher  externally, 
and  of  a reddish-orange  color,  the  spongy  parenchyma  underneath  being  white,  and  the 
juice  having  an  acid  and  bitter  taste.  It  has  been  made  official  in  the  British  Pharma- 
copoeia for  the  purpose  of  preparing  the  Tinctura  aurantii  recentis. 

2.  The  Peel.  Orange-peel  is  dried  in  narrow,  thin  bands  or  in  quarters,  the  epidermis 
being  glandular  and  of  a dark  brownish-green  color ; it  has  a fragrant  odor  and  an  aromatic 
bitter  taste.  It  should  have  very  little  of  the  spongy,  white  inner  layer  adhering  to  it.  In 
commerce  it  is  usually  found  in  flat  or  curved  elliptical  pieces,  about  37  Mm.  (3  inches)  long 
and  3 Mm.  (&  inch)  or  more  in  thickness,  the  surface  being  of  an  uneven  somewhat  glandu- 
lar appearance,  covering  the  numerous  large  oil-cells  and  the  spongy  white  parenchyma. 
This  latter  is  directed  to  be  removed  by  most  pharmacopoeias,  only  the  yellowish  rind 
(flavedo  aurantii ) being  used.  The  Curagoa  orange-peel  is  obtained  from  a variety  of 
the  bitter  orange  cultivated  in  the  island  of  Curagoa.  It  is  scarcely  half  the  thickness  of 
the  ordinary  orange-peel,  and  externally  of  a dark-greenish  color.  The  commercial  article 
sold  under  this  name  frequently  consists  merely  of  thin  slices  or  spiral  bands  cut  from 
the  fully-developed  but  still  unripe  fruit  grown  elsewhere.  The  white  parenchyma  is 
colored  yellow  by  alkalies  and  black  by  ferric  salts. 

3.  The  leaves,  Folia  aurantii , are  smooth,  ovate,  or  ovate-oblong,  entire  or  slightly 
crenate  on  the  margin,  pellucid-punctate,  aromatic,  and  have  a jointed  petiole,  with  a 
broadly  obovate  or  obcordate  wing. 

Constituents. — The  white  parenchyma  of  orange-  and  lemon-peel,  but  more  particu- 
larly the  unripe  bitter  orange,  contains  a crystalline  bitter  principle  which  was  named  hes- 
peridin  by  Lebreton,  its  discoverer  (1828).  Hilger  (1876)  obtained  from  5 to  8 per  cent, 
of  it  from  orange-berries  by  exhausting  them  first  with  water,  afterward  with  diluted 
aicohol  containing  1 per  cent,  of  potassa,  and  precipitating  the  tincture  with  hydrochloric} 


312 


A UBANTII  DULCIS  CORTEX . 


acid.  Crude  hesperidin  is  purified  by  Ed.  Hoffman  (1876)  by  recrystallization  from  hot 
alcohol,  when  it  is  obtained  in  white  needles  requiring  about  5000  parts  of  hot  water  for 
solution  ; it  is  insoluble  in  ether,  benzene,  fats,  and  volatile  oils,  but  is  readily  soluble 
in  alcohol  and  hot  acetic  acid ; its  solutions  in  alkalies  become  yellow  and  orange-colored ; 
the  potassa  solution,  evaporated  and  the  residue  warmed  with  dilute  sulphuric  acid,  shows 
a red  and  violet  color.  Hesperidin,  C22H26012,  melts  at  245°  C.  (473°  F.),  becomes  brown- 
red  (dingy  blackish-brown  on  warming,  Fliickiger)  with  ferric  chloride,  and  by  dilute  acids 
is  split  into  glucose  and  hesperetin , which  melts  at  223°  C.  (433.4°  F.)  and  is  soluble  in 
alcohol  and  ether.  Orange-peel  also  contains  gum,  albumen,  some  fixed  oil,  resin,  volatile 
oil  (see  Oleum  Aurantii  Corticis),  and  a principle  resembling  tannin  in  its  behavior  to 
iron  salts. 

The  volatile  oil  obtained  by  the  distillation  of  orange-berries  with  water  was  formerly 
known  as  essence  de  petit  grain , but  much  of  that  which  is  now  found  in  commerce  is 
obtained  from  the  leaves  and  young  shoots.  In  chemical  composition  it  resembles  the  oil 
of  orange,  but  differs  from  it  in  odor,  which  varies  even  to  some  extent  in  the  different 
cultivated  varieties  of  the  bitter  orange. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparations. — Elixir  aurantiorum  compositum,  s.  Elix. 
viscerale  Hoffmanni,  P.  G.  Macerate  for  8 days  bitter  orange-peel  50  parts,  cinnamon 
10  parts,  and  potassium  carbonate  2.5  parts  in  sherry  wine  250  parts  ; express,  and  dissolve 
in  the  liquid  5 parts  each  of  the  extracts  of  gentian,  wormwood,  buckbean,  and  cascarilla  ; 
set  aside  and  filter. 

Elixir  amarum,  P.  G .,  Bitter  Elixir.  Dissolve  extract  of  absinth  2 parts  and  oil  sugar 
of  peppermint  1 part  in  water  5 parts,  and  add  bitter  tincture  and  aromatic  tincture  of  each 
1 part. 

Tinctura  amara,  P.  G .,  Bitter  tincture.  Digest  for  a week  centaury,  gentian,  of  each 
3 parts,  bitter  orange-peel  2 parts,  orange-berries  and  zedoary  of  each  1 part,  in  alcohol 
(spec.  gr.  .894)  50  parts  , express  and  filter. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  simple  and  compound  infusions  of  orange-peel  ( Br .)  are 
used  as  vehicles  for  other  medicines  and  to  allay  indigestion,  flatulence,  and  colic.  They 
may  be  taken  in  doses  of  Gm.  32-64  (f&j-ij). 

AURANTII  DULCIS  CORTEX,  JJ.  S. — Sweet  Orange-Peel. 

Cortex  aurantiorum  dulcium. — Ecorce  (zest.es)  d' orange  douce,  Fr.  ; Apfelsinen- 
sckalen,  G. 

The  rind  of  the  fruit  of  Citrus  Aurantium,  Pisso,  s.  Cit.  dulcis,  Link.  Woodville, 
Med.  Bot.,  188;  Bisso,  Hist.  Orang.,  3,  39;  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 51. 

Nat.  Ord. — Aurantiacese. 

Origin. — This  variety  of  the  orange  tree,  known  as  the  sweet  or  Portugal  orange,  is 
extensively  cultivated  in  warm  countries ; it  differs  from  the  preceding  in  the  leaves 
having  the  petioles  more  narrowly  winged,  and  in  the  fruit  having  an  agreeable  sweetish 
acidulous  taste ; many  varieties  have  been  produced  by  cultivation. 

Description. — Sweet  orange-peel  agrees  in  structure  and  in  most  of  its  physical 
properties  with  bitter  orange-peel ; it  is,  however,  always  of  a lighter  and  more  yellow 
color,  of  an  agreeable  sweetish  aromatic  odor,  and  of  a slightly  bitter  taste.  Its  com- 
position is  the  same  as  that  of  the  bigarade  orange,  except  the  bitter  principle,  which  is 
present  in  much  smaller  proportion.  (See  also  Oleum  Aurantii  Corticis.) 

Pharmaceutical  Preparations. — Confectio  aurantii  corticis,  U.  S.  1870; 
Conserva  aurantii. — Confection  of  orange-peel,  E. ; Conserve  d’ecorce  d’orange,  Fr. ; 
Apfelsinenschalen-conserve,  G. — Take  of  sweet  orange-peel,  recently  separated  from  the 
fruit  by  grating,  1 part,  and  beat  it  with  sugar  3 parts,  gradually  added,  until  they  are 
thoroughly  mixed. — U.  S.  1870. 

Action  and  Uses. — Orange-peel  is  a mild  stimulant  of  digestion,  because  it  con- 
tains an  essential  oil  which,  in  the  fresh  bitter  orange,  is  endowed  with  very  active  irri- 
tant properties  and  acts  upon  the  nervous  system,  in  small  doses  stimulating  it,  but  in 
large  doses  or  by  continued  use  depressing  and  deranging  all  the  nervous  functions. 
Dried-orange-peel  and  its  preparations  are  employed  along  with  pure  bitters,  to  render 
them  stimulant  and  more  acceptable  to  the  stomach,  as  well  as  to  improve  their  taste. 
They  are  also  associated  with  purgatives  which  tend  to  gripe  and  when  the  bowels  are 
flatulent.  Orange-peel  is  prescribed  as  an  addition  to  many  infusions  and  decoctions. 
It  should  not  be  added  to  the  latter  until  ebullition  has  terminated.  The  confection 
of  orange-peel  (Pharm.  1870)  may  be  used  for  disguising  the  taste  and  qualifying  the 


A URANTII  FLORES.— A URL  ET  SODII  CHLORIDUM. 


313 


acrid  action  of  various  medicinal  powders,  especially  those  of  the  cathartic  class.  The 
orange  fruit  has  had  attributed  to  it  a gcilactagogiie  power,  but  the  statement  needs  con- 
firmation. 


AURANTII  FLORES.— Orange-Flowers. 

Flores  naphse. — Fleurs  dor  anger,  Fr.;  Orangenbluthen,  Pomeranzenbluthen,  G. ; Azahar , 
Sp.  ; Aranelo  amaro , F.  It. 

The  partly  expanded  flowers  of  Citrus  Aurantium  and  of  C.  vulgaris,  Risso. 

Origin. — See  Aurantii  Fructus. 

Description. — The  flowers  grow  singly  in  the  axils  of  the  upper  leaves,  and  consist 
of  a small  cup-shaped  five-toothed  calyx,  and  of  five  oblong,  obtuse,  fleshy,  and  glandular 
punctate  petals,  which  are  white,  or  in  the  dried  state  pale  brownish-white,  and  about  12 
Mm.  (£  inch)  long.  The  numerous  (about  twenty)  stamens  are  united  by  the  lower 
part  of  their  filaments  into  three  or  more  bundles.  The  globular  ovary  rises  from  a 
small  fleshy  disk,  and  bears  a cylindrical  style  with  a globular  stigma.  Orange-flowers 
have  a highly  fragrant  odor,  the  bitter  variety  being  more  aromatic  than  the  sweet ; 
their  taste  is  aromatic  and  bitterish. 

When  it  is  desired  to  keep  fresh  orange-flowers  for  some  time,  they  may  be  preserved 
by  mixing  them  well  with  half  their  weight  of  sodium  chloride,  pressing  the  mixture 
in  a suitable  jar  and  keeping  it,  well  closed,  in  a cool  place. — U.  S. 

Lemon-flowers  are  externally  of  a reddish  color  and  have  a different  odor. 

Constituents. — Boullay  found  (1828)  in  orange-flowrers,  beside  the  volatile  oil  (see 
Oleum  Aurantii  Florum),  gum,  bitter  extractive,  acetic  acid,  and  salts.  The  bitter 
taste  is  probably  due  to  the  presence  of  hesperidin.  (See  Aurantii  Amari  Cortex.) 

Action  and  Uses. — Orange-flowers  are  chiefly  used  to  prepare  a distilled  water 
which  is  an  agreeable  vehicle  for  some  medicines,  and  is  believed  to  stimulate  the  nervous 
system  slightly,  allaying  its  superficial  disorders  in  very  susceptible  persons. 


AURI  ET  SODII  CHLORIDUM,  V . S—  Gold  and  Sodium  Chloride. 

Auro-natrium  chloratum,  P.  G, ; Chloruretum  aurico-sodlcum. — Chloraurate  de  sodium , 
Ghlorure  dor  et  de  sodium , Fr. ; Natriumgoldchlorid , G. ; Chloruro  di  oro  e di  sodio , 
F.  It.,  Sp. 

A mixture  composed  of  equal  parts  of  dry  gold  chloride,  [AuC13  ; 302.81]  and  sodium 
chloride  [NaCl;  58.37].—  U.  S. 

Preparation. — Dissolve  with  the  aid  of  a gentle  heat  pure  gold  13  parts  in  a mix- 
ture composed  of  nitric  acid  16  parts  and  hydrochloric  acid  48  parts  ; dilute  the  solution 
with  water  40  parts,  add  pure  dry  sodium  chloride  20  parts,  and  evaporate  in  a water- 
bath,  with  constant  stirring,  to  dryness.  Result  40  parts. — P.  G. 

This  is  an  improvement  on  the  process  of  the  former  German  Pharmacopoeia,  accord- 
ing to  which  the  gold  solution  was  evaporated  nearly  to  dryness  before  it  was  mixed  with 
the  sodium  chloride.  Constant  stirring  is  necessary  during  the  final  evaporation,  in  order 
to  secure  a uniform  mixture,  which  persistently  retains  from  6 to  7 per  cent,  of  water. 

Properties. — This  preparation  is  “an  orange-yellow  powder  slightly  deliquescent  in 
damp  air,  odorless,  and  having  a saline  and  metallic  taste.  The  compound  is  very  soluble 
in  water;  at  least  one-half  of  it  should  be  dissolved  by  cold  alcohol.  When  exposed  to  a 
red  heat  it  is  decomposed  and  metallic  gold  is  separated.  A fragment  of  the  compound 
imparts  an  intense,  persistent  yellow  color  to  a non-luminous  flame.  Its  aqueous  solution 
has  a slightly  acid  reaction  and  yields  with  test-solution  of  silver  nitrate  a white  pre- 
cipitate insoluble  in  nitric  acid. — U.  S. 

The  French  Codex  orders  the  crystallized  double  salt,  NaCl.AuCl3,2H20  (mol.  weight 
397.1),  to  be  prepared  by  dissolving  the  auric  chloride  prepared  from  10  parts  of  gold  in 
sufficient  distilled  water,  adding  3 parts  of  sodium  chloride  and  evaporating  to  crys- 
tallization. It  forms  orange-colored  rhombic  prisms  or  plates  which  are  soluble  in  water 
and  alcohol,  not  deliquescent,  fusible,  and  at  a red  heat  are  gradually  decomposed,  49.4 
per  cent,  of  metallic  gold  being  separated.  It  is  known  in  France  as  sel  de  Chrestien  and 
set  de  Figuier. 

Tests. — “On  bringing  a glass  rod  dipped  into  water  of  ammonia  close  to  a portion  of 
the  compound  no  white  fumes  should  make  their  appearance  (absence  of  free  acid).  If 
0.5  Gm.  of  gold  and  sodium  chloride  be  dissolved,  in  a porcelain  capsule,  in  50  Cc.  of 
water,  the  solution  acidulated  with  5 Cc.  of  diluted  sulphuric  acid,  and,  after  the  addition 


314 


All  RUM. 


of  1 Gm.  of  pure  oxalic  acid,  heated  for  about  two  hours,  on  a water-bath,  a precipitate 
of  metallic  gold  will  be  obtained,  which,  when  washed,  dried  and  ignited,  should  weigh 
not  less  than  0.15  Gm.  (corresponding  to  at  least  30  per  cent,  of  metallic  gold).  The 
filtrate  from  the  precipitated  gold  should  not  be  affected  by  hydrogen  sulphide  test- 
solution,  nor  after  being  supersaturated  with  ammonia  water,  by  ammonium  sulphide 
test-solution,  (absence  of  metallic  impurities).” — U.  S.  If  0.5  Gm.  of  it  be  slowly 
heated  to  redness  and  afterward  washed  with  water,  the  residue  after  drying  should 
weigh  not  less  than  .150  Gm.,  corresponding  to  30  per  cent,  of  gold. — P.  G.  This  test 
corresponds  to  46.27  per  cent,  of  AuC13  and  to  60.67  per  cent,  of  NaCl.AuCl3.2H20. 

AURUM.— Gold. 

Or , Fr.  : Gold , G.  ; Oro,  F.  It.  ; Sp. 

Symbol  Au.  Atomicity  univalent  and  tri valent.  Atomic  weight  196.7. 

Origin  and  Properties. — This  well-known  metal  is  chiefly  found  in  the  metallic 
state,  always  associated  with  other  metals  and  frequently  in  various  native  sulphides. 
It  is  the  most  ductile  of  all  metals,  softer  than  silver,  fuses  at  nearly  1200°  C.  (2200° 
F.),  has  the  density  19.3,  and  is  of  a reddish-yellow  color  and  metallic  lustre,  but  when 
powdered  of  a brown  color,  acquiring  lustre  by  pressure.  It  is  not  altered  by  exposure 
to  air  and  water,  and  does  not  dissolve  in  acids,  but  is  soluble  in  liquids  containing  or 
generating  chlorine.  The  following  preparations  of  gold  have  been  used : 

Aurum  foliatum,  gold-leaf  \ is  used  for  coating  pills  ; is  transparent,  with  blue  or  green 
color ; it  should  not  be  attacked  by  nitric  acid  nor  become  tarnished  by  ammonia. 

Auri  pulvis,  powdered  geld,  may  be  prepared  by  triturating  gold-leaf  with  crystals 
of  milk-sugar,  potassium  sulphate,  or  other  hard  soluble  substance,  until  the  metallic 
lustre  has  completely  disappeared,  when  the  compound  is  washed  out  with  water.  A 
solution  of  gold  chloride  yields  the  metal  in  a finely-divided  condition  when  added  to 
solution  of  ferrous  sulphate,  oxalic  acid,  or  other  oxidizable  compound. 

Auri  chloridum,  gold  chloride  or  auric  chloride , AuC13.  On  dissolving  pure  gold  in 
nitro-muriatic  acid  and  crystallizing,  yellow  hydrogen-gold  chloride , AuHCl4.4H20,  is 
obtained,  which  in  a dry  atmosphere  loses  1H20  (Julius  Thomsen,  1878,  1883).  But 
on  evaporating  the  solution  to  dryness,  dissolving  in  water,  filtering  from  some  aurous 
chloride,  AuCl,  and  again  evaporating,  auric  chloride  is  obtained  as  a dark -red  or  red- 
brown  salt.  It  is  decomposed  above  150°  C.  (302°  F.),  dissolves  readily  in  water,  and 
is  also  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  and  volatile  oils,  which  solutions  are  gradually  reduced. 
Its  solution  yields  with  stannous  chloride  a dark-brown  or  purple  precipitate  known  as 
purple  of  Cassius,  the  exact  composition  of  which  is  still  unknown.  J.  A.  Koenig  (1882) 
ascertained  that  an  aqueous  solution  of  gold  chloride  in  contact  with  charcoal  previously 
deprived  of  all  foreign  constituents  is  slowly  reduced  to  metallic  gold,  hydrochloric  acid 
and  carbon  dioxide  being  formed  at  the  same  time. 

Auri  et  ammonii  chloridum,  gold-ammonium  chloride.  Equal  parts  of  auric 
chloride  and  ammonium  chloride  are  dissolved  in  water,  acidulated  with  hydrochloric 
acid,  and  the  solution  evaporated  to  dryness  (Dorvault).  It  resembles  the  preceding. 

Auri  cy anidum,  gold  cyanide  is  best  prepared,  according  to  Figuier  (1874)  by  dis- 
solving pure  auric  chloride  in  water,  and  adding  a solution  of  an  equivalent  weight  of 
pure  potassium  cyanide,  when  a lemon-yellow  precipitate  will  be  obtained ; a larger 
quantity  of  the  latter  solution  would  change  the  color  to  brownish  or  orange-yellow.  It 
is  inodorous  and  tasteless,  and  contains  75  per  cent,  of  gold.  With  an  excess  of  potas- 
sium cyanide,  used  in  a concentrated  hot  solution,  auro-potassium  cyanide,  containing  55 
per  cent,  of  gold,  is  obtained  in  colorless  tabular  crystals,  which  on  exposure  become 
white  from  loss  of  water  of  crystallization. 

Auri  iodidum,  gold  iodide,  Aul3,  is  obtained  by  precipitating  a solution  of  auric 
chloride  with  potassium  iodide,  avoiding  an  excess  of  the  latter,  washing  with  water,  and 
drying  carefully.  It  is  a dark-green  powder,  which  is  soluble  in  solution  of  potassium 
iodide,  and  on  exposure  loses  iodine,  being  first  converted  into  yellow  aurous  iodide , Aul, 
and  finally  into  metallic  gold. 

Auri  oxidum,  auric  acid,  gold  hydroxide,  Au(OH)3.  Pelletier  directs  the  boiling  of 
a solution  of  auric  chloride  with  an  excess  of  magnesia  or  zinc  oxide,  collecting  the  precip- 
itate upon  a filter,  and  washing  it  first  with  dilute  nitric  acid  (which  must  be  free  from 
chlorine),  and  afterward  with  water.  Fremv  (1850)  adds  to  auric  chloride  sufficient 
solution  of  potassa  until  the  precipitate  is  redissolved,  the  solution  is  boiled  for  fifteen 
minutes,  or  until  its  dark-brown  color  has  changed  to  light-yellow,  when  it  is  acidulated 


AURUM. 


315 


with  sulphuric  acid  and  the  precipitate  washed  and  dried  ; it  retains  a trace  of  potassium. 
Gold  hydroxide  is  a blackisv  erown  powder  which  is  readily  soluble  in  hydrochloric  and 
hydrobromic  acids,  and  wh^n  heated  to  245°  C.  (473°  F.)  or  boiled  with  alcohol  yields 
metallic  gold. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  action  of  gold,  has  to  some  extent,  an  analogy  with  that 
of  mercury,  its  salts  producing  local  effects  varying  between  irritation  and  causticity, 
and  internally  developing  a state  of  erethism  which  resembles  strongly  mercurial  fever. 
Within  this  limit  it  is  represented  as  stimulating  the  functions  generally,  and  in  man 
especially  the  genital  activity,  while  in  women  it  is  said  to  augment  the  menstrual  flux. 
The  virtues  anciently  attributed  to  this  metal  were  imaginary,  since  it  was  used  in  sub- 
stance, and  therefore  in  an  insoluble  form.  The  alchemists  Paracelsus  and  Basil  Valen- 
tine proclaimed  its  excellence  in  chronic  nervous  diseases,  in  hypochondriasis,  insanity, 
and  convulsive  affections,  and  also  in  syphilis,  salivation,  etc.,  especially  when  given  in 
the  solution  known  as  aurum  potabile,  etc.  Many  zealous  apostles  of  the  faith  in  gold 
flourished  in  the  first  quarter  of  the  nineteenth  century,  and  attributed  to  it  cures  of 
uterine  and  lingual  schirrus,  chronic  induration  of  the  testes  and  liver,  elephantiasis 
(Arabian),  goitre,  osteosarcoma,  chlorosis,  amenorrhaea,  amaurosis,  paralysis  of  the 
bladder,  dropsy,  and,  above  all,  syphilis,  in  which  it  was  for  a time  regarded  as  a valuable 
succedaneum  of  mercury  (Richter).  In  1857,  Rouault  conceived  that  the  salt  of  gold 
and  sodium  had  an  elective  potency  in  the  treatment  of  glandular  tumors , generally  more 
energetic  and  certain  than  the  preparations  of  iodine,  and  also  that  it  was  beneficial  in 
certain  benignant  and  even  malignant  tumors  of  the  breast  ( Brit . and  For.  Med.-Chir. 
Rev.  July,  1857,  p.  228). 

It  appears  that  gold  compounds,  when  persistently  employed,  may,  through  the  febrile 
erethism  above  referred  to,  tend  to  eliminate  the  syphilitic  poison  from  the  system  and 
arouse  the  sluggish  vital  forces  as  they  exist  in  scrofula.  Indeed,  it  is  said  that  this 
action  sometimes  goes  so  far  as  to  give  a destructive  energy  to  tbe  morbid  process.  In 
1884,  Dr.  Bartholow  reported  that  he  found  the  double  chloride  of  gold  and  sodium,  in 
the  dose  of  one-twentieth  of  a grain  three  times  a day,  exhibit  as  it  primary  action  an 
increased  vigor  of  nutrition,  but  if  its  use  was  kept  up  for  some  time  it  occasioned  a 
waste  of  the  tissues,  and  especially  of  the  connective  tissue.  Hence  he  conceived  it 
should  be  useful  in  chronic  sclerosis  of  the  spinal  cord,  of  the  liver,  and  the  kidney , and 
believed  that  clinical  observation  justified  this  prevision.  He  also  found  it  useful  in  some 
forms  of  hypochondriasis,  asthma,  laryngismus  stridulus,  singidtus,  dysmenorrhcea , and 
sexual  debility  ( Med . News , xlv.  118).  These  expectations  and  results  have  not  been  con- 
firmed. But  Goubert  used  the  bromide  of  gold  for  migraine,  epilepsy,  chorea,  and  Base- 
doirfs  disease,  in  most  of  which  affections  he  prescribed  it  until  the  characteristic  head- 
ache produced  by  the  medicine  was  experienced.  He  gave  it  to  adults  in  daily  doses  of 
Gm.  0.008—0.01  (gr.  jt)  ( Centralbl . f Therap.,  viii.  120).  Meerheevski,  Rosenbach,* 
and  Danillo  have  applied  it  to  the  treatment  of  epilepsy,  and  hysteria  with  favorable 
results,  especially  in  the  latter  affection.  It  was  given  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.016-0.03  (gr.  1- 
J).  It  has  been  estimated  that  bromide  of  gold  is  ten  times  more  active  than  the  bro- 
mides commonly  used  ( Lancet , Aug.  1890,  p.  869),  but  this  estimate  appears  to  be  far 
too  low.  It  will  be  observed  that  originally  gold  compounds  were  employed  almost 
exclusively  in  the  treatment  of  nervous  diseases ; more  recently  in  those  comprehended 
under  the  general  title  of  “ obstructions  and  then  once  more  its  original  application 
was  revived.  The  most  novel  uses  of  the  chloride  of  gold  and  sodium  have  been  in  the 
treatment  of  pulmonary  consumption,  for  wrhich  it  was  vaunted  as  a specific,  and  in  that 
of  habitual  inebriety.  In  neither  case,  any  more  than  in  earlier  instances,  has  it  made 
good  the  claims  that  were  set  up  for  it.  (Compare  Med.  News,  lx.  559,  581 ; Proceedings 
of  Amer.  C limatolog.  Soc.,  1892,  p.  76.)  It  has  been  used  with  apparent  advantage  by 
Martineau  in  a case  of  inveterate  syphilis,  thus:  Water,  Gm.  1000  ; chloride  of  gold  and 
chloride  of  sodium,  of  each  1 Gm. ; dose,  1 to  3 teaspoonfuls  daily  (Bull,  et  Mem.  Soc.  de 
Therap.,  1883,  p.  52).  Powdered  gold  or  its  oxide  is  applied  by  friction  upon  the  sides 
of  the  tongue  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.01.-0.20  (gr.  iii— iv)  daily.  The  oxide  is  given 
internally  in  pill,  and  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.006  (gr.  yL)  after  meals,  and  gradually  aug- 
mented. Chloride  of  gold  and  sodium  is  a caustic,  but  in  a diluted  condition  may  be 
applied  to  the  interior  of  the  mouth,  as  above  mentioned.  The  salivation  which  follows 
this  manoeuvre  is  due  to  a local  and  not  to  a constitutional  action  of  the  metal.  The 
dose  of  this  preparation  is  about  Gm.  0.003  (gr.  Chloride  of  gold  is  also  a caustic, 

resembling  in  its  action  nitrate  of  silver.  It  has  been  applied  to  lupoid , cancerous , and 
other  ulcers. 


316 


AVENGE  farina.— azedarach. 


AVENGE  FARINA,  U.  S.  1870.— Oatmeal. 

Farine  d'avoine , Fr.  ; Hafermehl , G-. 

The  meal  prepared  from  the  seed  of  Avena  sativa,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med. 
PI , 292. 

Nat  Ord. — Graminacese. 

Origin. — -The  native  country  of  oat  has  not  been  ascertained,  though  it  is  supposed 
to  have  originated  from  one  of  the  wild  species  indigenous  to  Europe.  It  is  cultivated  in 
most  civilized  countries,  even  in  the  subarctic  regions,  and  many  varieties  or  species  are 
known,  all  having  a loose  panicle  and  two-  or  occasionally  three-flowered  spikelets.  The 
kinds  more  rarely  found  in  cultivation,  except  in  certain  localities,  are  A.  orientalis, 
Schreber , A.  strigosa,  Schreber , A.  nuda,  Linne , and  A.  brevis,  Roth.  The  fruit  is  closely 
invested  by  the  paleae,  lanceolate,  pointed,  and  grooved  on  the  inner  side.  Oats  deprived 
of  the  paleae  or  husk  are  called  groats.  By  grinding  the  grains 
oatmeal  is  obtained. 

Description. — Oatmeal  is  a grayish- white  not  uniform  powder, 
in  which  fragments  of  the  tissue  are  observed  by  the  naked  eye ; 
it  has  a slight  odor  and  a somewhat  bitterish  taste.  Viewed  under 
the  microscope,  the  starch  consists  of  medium-sized  polyhedral  or 
muller-shaped  granules,  with  a rather  distinct  hilum,  but  without 
observable  laminae.  Frequently  two  or  three  are  united,  or  even 
a larger  number,  forming  a nearly  spherical  mass  with  a checkered 
surface,  and  readily  separating  by  pressure  into  the  separate 
granules. 

Constituents. — Oats  consist  on  an  average  of  25  per  cent, 
of  husks  and  75  percent,  of  grain;  the  former  contain  1 to  H 
per  cent,  of  fixed  oil,  i to  f per  cent,  of  sugar  and  gum,  nearly  2 
per  cent,  of  protein  compounds,  and  6J  to  7 per  cent,  of  ash,  the  remainder  being  cellulose. 
The  grain  contains  64^  to  66  per  cent,  of  starch,  5 to  7 of  fat,  18  to  21  per  cent,  of 
protein  compounds,  1 to  3 per  cent,  of  salts,  the  remainder  being  sugar,  gum,  and  cellu- 
lose. The  largest  portion  of  the  protein  compounds  is  avenin , which  may  be  obtained 
from  oatmeal  by  treating  it  in  the  cold  with  a weak  solution  of  potassa,  decanting  from 
the  sediment,  and  precipitating  by  acetic  acid ; the  impure  avenin  is  washed  with  diluted 
and  strong  alcohol  and  ether,  redissolved  in  weak  potassa  solution,  and  precipitated  by 
acetic  acid  (Kreusler,  1869).  Avenin  closely  resembles  legumin  in  its  behavior  to  solv- 
ents ; it  contains  17  per  cent,  of  nitrogen  and  f to  1 per  cent,  of  oxygen. 

Action  and  Uses. — Oatmeal  is  an  excellent  article  of  food,  but  is  apt  to  undergo 
fermentation  in  the  stomach,  producing  flatulence  and  sour  eructations.  It  is  more 
nutritious  than  purely  starchy  articles,  such  as  arrow-root  and  sago;  and,  being  some- 
what laxative,  in  consequence  partly  of  its  usually  containing  a portion  of  bran,  it  forms 
an  appropriate  article  of  diet  in  cases  of  habitual  constipation  and  inertia  of  the  intestines. 
The  insoluble  bran  is,  however,  prone  to  accumulate,  and  sometimes  forms  concretions. 
Oatmeal  gruel  is  prepared  by  slowly  boiling  from  6m.  32-64  (^j-ij)  of  oatmeal  with  3 
pints  of  water  until  reduced  to  2 pints,  straining  the  decoction,  allowing  it  to  stand  until 
cool,  and  then  rejecting  the  supernatant  liquid.  Its  flavor  may  be  improved  by  the 
addition  of  slit  raisins  toward  the  end  of  the  boiling,  and  also  by  means  of  sugar  and 
nutmeg. 

AZEDARACH —Azedarach. 

Pride  of  India , Pride  of  China , E.  ; Ecorce  d' azedarach , Ecorce  de  margousier,  Fr. ; 
Zedrachrinde , G. 

The  bark  of  the  root  of  Melia  Azedarach,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Meliaceae. 

Origin. — Azedarach  is  a handsome  tree  which  is  indigenous  to  China  and  India,  and 
cultivated  as  an  ornamental  tree  in  Southern  Europe  and  in  the  United  States  from  Vir- 
ginia southward ; in  the  Gulf  States  it  has  been  completely  naturalized.  It  grows 
rapidly  to  the  height  of  9 to  12  M.  (30  or  40  feet)  has  large  deciduous  and  glabrous 
bipinnate  leaves,  the  leaflets  being  lance-ovate,  acuminate,  and  serrate,  and  bears  pan- 
icles of  lilac-colored  fragrant  flowers  and  yellowish  globular  drupes  of  the  size  of  a 
cherry,  which  by  fermentation  yield  considerable  alcohol.  In  the  East  Indies  the  bark 
of  the  nim  tree  or  margosa , Melia  Azadirachta,  Linne  (Azadirachta  indica,  Jussieu),  is 
used  as  a tonic  and  febrifuge ; the  simply  pinnate  leaves  are  employed  as  a local  stimu- 


Fig.  37. 


AZEDARACH. 


317 


lant,  and  a fixed  oil  which  is  expressed  from  the  fruit  has  a strongly  bitter  taste  and  is 
employed  as  an  anthelmintic,  and  externally  in  rheumatic  complaints. — Bentley  and  Tri- 
men, Med.  Plants , 62. 

Description. — The  bark  is  met  with  in  irregular  curved  pieces  and  quills,  25  Mm. 
(1  inch)  or  more  long  and  6 Mm.  (1  inch)  or  more  in  diameter.  The  first  layer  of  corky 
tissue  is  thin,  of  a blackish-brown  color,  somewhat  glossy,  and  forms  irregular  longitudinal 
ridges  or  patches  upon  the  bright  red-brown  cork  underneath.  In  older  barks  the  corky  layer 
is  rust-brown  and  two  or  three  times  thicker  than  the  remaining  portion  of  the  white 
inner  bark,  which  contains  a few  scattered  pale-yellow  bast-fibres  and  is  tangentially 
striate.  The  inner  surface  is  whitish  or  pale-brownish,  uneven,  and  longitudinally  striate. 
The  bark  breaks  with  a short  and  smooth,  and  in  the  inner  portion  more  or  less  fibrous, 
fracture.  The  cork  has  very  little  taste,  but  the  inner  bark  is  at  first  sweetish,  afterward 
bitter  and  nauseous.  It  should  be  collected  from  the  smaller  roots  or  deprived  of  the 
thick  rust-brown  nearly  tasteless  corky  layer.  It  yields  its  virtues  to  hot  water  and 
diluted  alcohol. 

Constituents. — The  bitter  principle  was  isolated  by  Jacobs  (1879)  in  the  form  of 
a yellowish-white  resin  which  is  almost  insoluble  in  water,  oil  of  turpentine,  and  petro- 
leum benzin,  slightly  soluble  in  carbon  bisulphide,  and  freely  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether, 
and  chloroform.  The  inner  bark  contains  no  tannin.  Its  constituents  may  be  analogous 
to  those  of  nim-  bark , in  which  Broughton  (1873)  found  a bitter,  dark-brown  resin-like 
principle,  C36H50On,  which  is  slightly  soluble  in  water,  but  dissolves  in  alcohol,  benzol, 
carbon  bisulphide,  and  ether.  Another  amorphous  principle,  more  soluble  in  water,  and 
a crystalline  fatty  substance,  were  likewise  obtained.  Cornish  (1856)  had  separated  a 
bitter  crystalline  principle,  margosin , besides  volatile  oil,  resin,  and  other  widely-diffused 
constituents. 

Allied  Plants. — The  bark  and  other  parts  of  different  species  of  Guarea  and  Moschoxylon, 
indigenous  to  the  West  Indies  and  tropical  America,  possess  the  odor  of  musk.  The  bark  of 
several  species  of  Trichilia,  met  with  in  India,  Africa,  and  South  America,  is  purgative  and 
emetic.  Carapa  guianensis,  Aublet , and  Car.  Touloucouna,  Guillemin  et  Perrottet , yield  anthel- 
mintic bark  and  a bitter  fixed  oil,  known  as  crab  oil,  kundah,  or  callicoonah  oil,  the  latter 
being  expressed  from  the  seeds.  Swdetenia  Mahagoni,  Linnt,  indigenous  to  the  West  Indies 
and  tropical  America,  particularly  Mexico,  yields  the  well-known  mahogany-wood,  and  a similar 
wood  is  obtained  in  Western  Africa  from  Khaya  senegalensis,  Guillemin  et  Perottet;  both 
species  have  a bitter  and  strongly  astringent  bark.  Cedrela  odorata,  Linnt,  is  the  Jamaica  red 
cedar ; all  parts  of  it  are  bitter  and  unpleasantly  odorous,  but  old  wood  is  fragrant.  Soymida 
(Swietenia,  Willdenow)  febrifuga,  Jussieu,  yields  the  East  Indian  rohun-bark,  a useful  astringent 
tonic.  Mahogany-wood  contains  catechin,  according  to  Cazeneuve  and  Latour  (1875). 

Action  and  Uses. — Even  from  the  period  of  Arabian  medicine  the  poisonous  prop- 
erties of  azedarach  have  been  known,  and  then,  as  now,  it  was  stated  to  have  produced 
faintness,  giddiness,  dimness  of  sight,  mental  confusion,  and  vomiting ; later  observers 
have  added  to  these  symptoms  stertorous  breathing,  stupor,  dilatation  of  the  pupils,  cold 
sweat,  and  purging.  All  of  these  effects  resemble  those  produced  by  spigelia.  The 
active  properties  appear  to  reside  in  the  bark  of  the  root.  The  berries  are  often  eaten 
without  injury  by  children,  and  also  by  birds.  Cows  and  horses  are  not  injured  by  the 
leaves.  Indeed,  they  are  said  to  be  given  to  horses  infested  with  “ bots,”  and  the 
berries  have  been  found  an  attractive  and  nutritious  food  for  horses.  In  India  and  the 
southern  portions  of  the  United  States  azedarach-bark  is  stated  to  be  the  most  popular 
vermifuge  for  lumbricoid  ascarides.  It  is  usually  administered  in  a decoction  made  by 
boiling  Gm.  64  (§ij)  of  the  bark  (fresh,  if  possible)  in  a pint  of  water  until  reduced 
one-half.  For  a child  the  dose  is  a tablespoonful  every  two  or  three  hours  until  it  affects 
the  stomach  and  bowels.  It  should  be  followed  by  a cathartic.  A tincture  has  also  been 
used  both  as  vermifuge  and  a tonic  in  doses  of  from  Gm.  2-8  (f^ss-f^ij). 

Margosin  is  obtained  from  Aradirachata  Indica  bark,  and  an  oil  expressed  from  its 
almonds  is  used  in  India.  The  bark  is  regarded  as  antiperiodic  and  tonic,  and  the  leaves 
are  applied  as  stimulants  to  indolent  ulcers,  etc.  The  oil  is  used  as  an  anthelmintic  and 
insecticide,  and  as  an  embrocation  in  rheumatism  (Amer.  Jour.  Phar.,  lx.  629). 

Naregamia  is  said  to  be  in  use  by  the  natives  of  the  Malabar  coast  as  an  emetic  in 
bilious  and  dyspeptic  disorders  and  in  rheumatism,  as  well  as  in  dysentery  and  bronchitis 
( Tlierap . Gaz.,  xiii.  720).  Employed  by  Schoengut,  it  seemed  to  benefit  bronchial  affec- 
tions by  rendering  the  sputa  thinner  and  less  tenacious,  and  therefore  acting  after  the 
manner  of  ipecac  and  senega.  The  tincture  was  prescribed  to  the  extent  of  Gm.  1-3 
daily  ( Cent . f Therap.,  viii.  129). 


318 


BALSAMUM  PERUVIANUM. 


BALSAMUM  PERUVIANUM,  XT.  S.,  Br.,  JP.  G.— Balsam  of  Peru. 

Balsamum  peruvianum  nigrum , Balsamum  indicum. — Bourne  de  Perou,  Baume  des 
Indes , Fr. ; Perubalsam,  Gr.  ; Balsamo  negro , B.  de  San  Salvador , Sp. ; Balsamo  peru- 
viano , F.  It. 

A balsam  obtained  from  Toluifera  (Myroxylon,  Klotzsch,  Myrospermum,  Royle ) Pereirae, 
Baillon.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med  Plants , 83. 

AW.  Ore?. — Leguminosae,  Papilionaceae. 

Origin. — Balsam  of  Peru  was  for  a long  time  supposed  to  be  derived  from  Myrox- 
ylon peruiferum,  Linne  Jilius,  a tree  growing  in  Brazil  and  near  the  west  coast  of  South 
America.  Pereira  (1850)  showed  that  the  drug  produced  in  the  state  of  San  Salvador 
in  Central  America  comes  from  an  apparently  different  species, which  he  provisionally  dis- 
tinguished as  Myrospermum  Sonsonate.  Carson  regarded  the  two  species  as  identical*, 
but,  according  to  Boyle,  Klotzsch,  and  others,  they  are  specifically  distinct.  (See  Am. 
Jour.  Pharm .,  1860,  pp.  296  and  411 ; 1864,  p.  145.)  The  plant  in  question  is  a tree 
attaining  a height  of  about  15  M.  (50  feet),  and  branching  from  2 to  3 M.  (7  to  10 
feet)  above  ground.  It  has  imparpinnate  leaves  with  the  leaflets  oval-lanceolate,  some- 
what attenuate  above,  and  slightly  emarginate,  the  flowers  in  subaxillary  racemes,  and 
oblanceolate  indehiscent  one-seeded  legumes  about  10  Cm.  (4  inches)  long. 

Collection. — According  to  Dorat  (1860,  1863)  and  Wyss  (1878),  at  the  beginning 
of  the  dry  season,  early  in  November  or  December,  the  bark  for  some  distance  up  the 
trunk  is  beaten  with  the  back  of  an  axe  or  other  blunt  instrument  until  it  has  separated 
from  the  wood  without  breaking,  This  is  done  on  four  sides,  leaving  four  intermediate 
strips  untouched,  so  as  not  to  destroy  the  vitality  of  the  tree.  Five  or  six  days  later  the 
loosened  bark  is  charred  by  means  of  torches,  and  in  the  course  of  another  week  the 
charred  pieces  fall  off,  when  the  bare  wood  is  covered  by  rags,  which  absorb  the  exuding 
balsam,  and  which,  when  saturated,  are  gently  boiled  in  water  until  most  of  the  heavy 
balsam  sinks  to  the  bottom,  the  remainder  being  obtained  by  wringing  the  partly- 
exhausted  rags  in  a bag  made  of  stout  rope.  The  wounds  of  the  tree  are  covered  with 
fresh  rags  as  long  as  any  balsam  exudes  during  the  dry  season.  The  strips  left  untouched 
in  one  season  are  similarly  treated  the  following  year,  and  the  tree  will  thus  yield  an 
annual  supply  of  balsam  for  30  years,  but  it  is  allowed  to  rest  for  some  time  after  5 or  6 
years  in  order  not  to  exhaust  its  productiveness.  The  balsam  obtained  from  the  rags  by 
boiling  and  pressing  is  on  the  following  day  separated  from  the  water  and  put  into  suitable 
vessels. 

Commerce. — Balsam  of  Peru  comes  to  us  in  earthen  jugs  and  metallic  drums,  and 
is  principally  exported  from  the  port  of  Acajutla  on  the  Pacific  coast  and  from  Balize  on 
the  Atlantic  side.  Formerly  it  reached  Europe  by  way  of  Peru,  and  was  supposed  to  be 
a product  of  that  country.  The  importation  into  the  United  States  amounted  in  1876  to 
1271  pounds,  and  in  1878  reached  8924  pounds. 

Description. — The  balsam  is  a thick  liquid  of  the  consistence  and  appearance  of 
molasses,  of  a dark  brown-black  color  when  examined  in  bulk  ; in  thin  layers,  red-brown 
and  perfectly  transparent.  It  has  an  acid  reaction,  an  agreeable,  fragrant,  slightly  smoky 
odor  and  a warm  bitterish  taste,  followed  by  a burning  sensation  in  the  fauces.  Its  spe- 
cific gravity  is  1.135  to  1.150  (1.137  to  1.145,  P.  G .).  Exposed  to  the  air,  it  is  but  little 
changed  and  scarcely  thickened  in  the  course  of  several  years,  but  ultimately  forms  a 
soft  solid.  It  is  readily  soluble  in  all  proportions  in  pure  acetone,  absolute  alcohol,  chlo- 
roform, and  glacial  acetic  acid,  and  with  an  equal  bulk  of  alcohol  and  ether  yields  a clear 
solution,  which  on  the  further  addition  of  the  solvent  becomes  turbid  and  deposits  a little 
resin.  It  yields  a clear  mixture  with  one-third  its  volume  of  carbon  disulphide,  but  with 
more  of  the  latter  separates  a blackish-brown  resin.  Petroleum  benzin  agitated  with 
Peru  balsam  does  not  permanently  mix  with  it,  and  remains  colorless,  but  on  evaporation 
leaves  a colorless  or  pale-yellow  oily  liquid  (cinnamein).  Diluted  alcohol  and  fixed  and 
volatile  oils  dissolve  only  a small  proportion  of  the  balsam,  but  the  latter  takes  up  from 
12  to  15  per  cent,  of  castor  oil,  forming  a clear  solution. 

By  subjecting  the  fruit  to  pressure  white  Peru  Balsam  is  obtained.  It  forms  a thick 
yellowish-white  liquid  having  an  odor  resembling  that  of  tonka,  and  containing  a crystal- 
lizable  resin  named  myroxocarpin. 

The  tree  exudes  a gum-resin  which,  according  to  Attfield  (1864),  contains  77.4  per 
cent,  of  resin,  but  no  aromatic  principle  or  cinnamic  acid. 

Constituents. — The  balsam  has  (1869  and  1870)  been  examined  by  K.  Kraut  and  by 
J.  Kachler,  from  whose  analyses  it  appears  to  contain  a little  benzylic  alcohol,  benzylic 


BALSA  M UM  PER  U VIA  N UM. 


319 


benzoate  and  cinnamate  (about  60  per  cent.),  cinnamic  and  benzoic  acids,  and  resin  (32 
per  cent.,  Kachler).  Kraut  obtained  in  the  distillate  also  stilbene.  After  complete  saponi- 
fication with  potassa,  Kachler  obtained  20  per  cent,  of  benzalcohol  and  46  per  cent,  of 
cinnamic  acid.  Delafontaine’s  statement  (1868),  that  stryacin  (cinnamylic  cinnamate)  is 
also  present,  was  not  corroborated  by  Kraut. 

Benzylic  cinnamate , or  cinnamein , the  principal  constituent,  has  the  composition  C9II7- 
(C7H7)0.2,  and  is  when  pure  a colorless  oily  liquid  of  a faint  agreeable  odor  and  an 
aromatic  sharp  taste.  Its  specific  gravity  is  about  1.095,  and  its  boiling-point  somewhat 
above  300°  C.  (572°  F.).  By  caustic  alkalies  it  is  decomposed  into  benzylic  alcohol  and 
cinnamic  acid. 

Benzalcohol , or  benzylic  alcohol , C7H80,  is  a colorless,  faintly  aromatic  oil  heavier  than 
water  and  boiling  at  204°  C.  (399.2°  F.),  and  by  oxidizing  agents  is  converted  first  into 
oil  of  bitter  almonds,  and  finally  into  benzoic  acid.  It  is  considered  to  be  the  peruvin  of 
Fremy  in  a pure  state ; as  obtained  by  that  author  it  was  lighter  than  water. 

Benzylic  benzoate , C7H5(C7H7)02,  is  a colorless  oil  which  crystallizes  at  a low  tempera- 
ture and  boils  at  about  340  C.  (674°  F.). 

Stilbene,  CUHI2,  forms  colorless  and  inodorous  pearly  scales  or  prisms  which  are  fusible 
and  boil  above  290°  C.  (554°  F.). 

Adulterations. — Balsam  of  Peru  is  frequently  adulterated  with  alcohol,  fixed  oils, 
copaiba,  Canada  turpentine,  rosin,  etc.  If  10  drops  of  the  balsam  be  triturated  with  20 
drops  of  sulphuric  acid,  a tough,  homogeneous,  brownish-red  mixture  should  result.  If 
this  should  be  washed  after  a few  minutes  with  cold  water,  it  should  be  converted  into  a 
resinous  mass  which  is  brittle  when  cold  (absence  of  fixed  oils  and  oleoresins). — U.  S., 
P.  G.  (For  modifications  in  manipulation  see  Am.  Jour.  Phar.,  1870,  p.  404  and  1876, 
p.  166).  According  to  Schlickum  (1882),  the  resin  left  on  applying  this  test  should  be 
perfectly  soluble  in  ether,  an  insoluble  residue  indicating  the  presence  of  benzoin  or 
storax : treated  with  acetone  or  alcohol,  such  a residue  will  completely  dissolve  unless 
storax  was  present,  which  will  leave  a small  amount  of  a white  powder  undissolved,  and 
yield  it  from  chloroform  in  minute  crystals.  A mixture  of  3 Cc.  of  the  balsam  with  1 
Cc.  of  carbon  disulphide  should  be  clear,  but  on  adding  8 Cc.  more  of  carbon  disulphide 
it  separates  about  15  per  cent,  of  resin,  which  adheres  to  the  sides  of  the  vessel.  The 
liquid  poured  off  from  the  latter  should  be  transparent,  should  not  have  a deeper  color 
than  light-brownish,  and  should  not  exhibit  more  than  a faint  fluorescence  (absence  of 
gurjun  balsam). — U.  S.,  P.  G.  Fliickiger  states  that  the  resin  separated  sometimes 
amounts  to  38  per  cent. ; it  is  insoluble  in  ether,  but  dissolves  in  alcohol  and  alkalies, 
and  according  to  Kachler  (1869),  yields  protocatechuic  acid  when  fused  with  potassium 
hydroxide,  and  on  dry  distillation  yields  styrolene,  toluene,  and  benzoic  acid.  When  dis- 
tilled with  water  no  volatile  oil  should  pass  over  (absence  of  volatile  oil,  copaiba,  etc.). — 
U.  S.  The  addition  of  volatile  oils  lessens  the  specific  gravity  of  Peru  balsam  ; on  distil- 
ling it  with  water  in  a flask  its  volatile  constituents  remain  behind  owing  to  their  high 
boiling  points,  while  volatile  oils  distil  with  the  vapors  of  water.  If  2 Cc.  of  the  balsam  be 
shaken  in  a dry  test-tube  with  8 Cc.  of  benzin,  so  that  the  balsam  may  be  spread  on  the 
walls  of  the  tube,  the  same  should  adhere  to  the  walls,  and  subside  only  very  slowly  if 
the  liquid  is  poured  off  immediately.  The  filtered  liquid  should  be  colorless  or  only 
slightly  yellow,  and  show  no  deposit  on  standing  (absence  of  appreciable  quantities  of 
storax,  turpentine,  copaiba,  etc.). — U.  S.  If  2 Gm.  of  the  balsam  be  agitated  with  8 
Gm.  of  benzin,  and  the  filtrate  be  evaporated  on  the  water-bath,  a residue  should  be  left, 
which  when  mixed  with  5 drops  of  nitric  acid  should  assume  a pure  yellow  color  (absence 
of  turpentines,  storax,  copaiba,  fixed  oils,  etc.). — P.  G.  Benzin,  particularly  when 
warmed  with  Peru  balsam,  takes  up  cinnamein,  which  after  repeating  the  treatment 
may  amount  to  63  per  cent.  (Fliickiger).  The  use  of  nitric  acid  in  the  above  test  was 
suggested  by  Doescher  (1881)  ; pure  balsam  gives  a yellow  color,  but  in  the  presence  of 
storax  the  color  is  greenish-blue,  and  finally  dingy  green-yellow,  and  in  the  presence  of 
rosin  the  same  but  brighter  colors  are  produced.  If  5 drops  of  the  balsam  be  well 
agitated  with  3 Cc.  of  ammonia-water,  only  a slight,  rapidly-disappearing  foam  should  be 
produced,  and  the  mixture  should  not  form  a stiff  jelly  (absence  of  rosin,  etc.). — P.  G. 
By  this  test,  which  was  proposed  by  Grote,  turpentines  and  their  resins  are  readily 
detected.  If  2 parts  balsam  be  triturated  on  a water-bath  with  1 part  slaked  lime,  the 
mixture  should  not  solidify,  nor  should  it  have  a fatty  odor  (absence  of  rosin,  fatty  oils, 
etc.). — P.  G.  This  is  Fliickiger’s  test  (1881),  and  depends  on  the  formation  of  a solid 
calcium  salt  in  presence  of  rosin  and  the  evolution  of  acrolein  vapors  on  heating  to  a 
higher  temperature  if  castor  oil  or  other  fats  are  present. 


320 


BALSA  MUM  TOL  UTANUM. 


Alcohol  is  best  detected,  according  toGavalowski  (1875),  by  adding  some  of  the  sus- 
pected balsam  to  a solution  of  potassium  bichromate,  followed  by  concentrated  sulphuric 
acid,  when  the  characteristic  odor  of  aldehyde,  suggesting  that  of  rotten  apples,  will  be 
perceived.  Or  some  of  the  balsam  may  be  distilled  with  water  and  the  distillate  treated 
while  warm  with  a little  iodine,  followed  by  caustic  soda  or  potassa  until  decolorized.  On 
cooling  crystals  of  iodoform  will  separate  (Lichen's  alcohol  test , 1869). 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Balsam  of  Peru  is  mixed  with  lard  to  preserve  it  from 
becoming  rancid.  A syrup  is  made  of  this  balsam  (see  Syr.  Tolutanus). 

Mistura  oleoso-balsamica,  s.  Balsamum  vitae  Hojfmanni , P.  G.  Three  parts  of 
balsam  of  Peru  and  1 part  each  of  the  volatile  oils  of  lavender,  cloves,  cinnamon,  thyme, 
lemon,  mace,  and  orange-flowers  are  dissolved  in  240  parts  of  alcohol;  after  .several  days 
the  brownish-yellow  liquid  is  filtered. 

Action  and  Uses. — Balsam  of  Peru  is  a general  stimulant,  with  a special  tendency 
to  the  mucous  membranes.  In  large  doses  it  may  irritate  the  digestive  canal  and  cause 
vomiting  and  diarrhoea  ; but  in  medicinal  doses  it  occasions  some  heat  of  skin,  increased 
frequency  of  pulse,  and  an  augmented  action  of  the  kidneys  without,  however,  irritating 
them  (Stockman,  Therap.  Gaz .,  xiv.  615).  Locally,  it  hastens  repair  of  tissue,  and  is 
reputed  to  be  a germicide  and  antiseptic.  As  an  internal  medicine  it  is  most  useful  in 
checking  bronchial  secretion,  and  hence  as  a remedy  in  chronic  bronchitis  occurring  alone 
or  as  a complication  of  pulmonary  consumption.  It  should  not  be  used  if  much  fever 
exists:  it  may  be  prescribed  for  these  purposes  by  inhalation,  and  also  for  the  alleviation 
of  chronic  laryngitis.  In  1889—90  much  attention  was  paid  to  the  use  of  this  balsam  in 
scrofulous  sores  and  diseases  of  the  bones  and  in  pulmonary  phthisis.  This  was  a revival 
of  a former  practice.  As  we  have  elsewhere  stated  ( Therapeutics , 4th  ed.,  i.  573),  it 
“ has  been  much  employed  to  promote  the  healing  of  wounds  in  parts  of  inferior  vitality.” 
Strumpf  remarks  that  it  cures  them  without  suppuration  or  scar ; and  recently  Bockwell 
has  confirmed  these  statements  (Med.  Record , xxxiv.  423.)  These  old-established 
methods  have  been,  in  recent  times,  explained  by  attributing  to  the  balsam  an  anti- 
bacillar  virtue.  It  has  been  used  as  a dressing  for  external  sores,  and  internally  by  the 
mouth,  by  inhalation,  and  also  by  subcutaneous  injection.  Undoubtedly  it  is  a protective, 
a stimulant,  and  a tissue  conservative.  (Compare  Brautigam,  Centralbl.  f Med.,  vii. 
505  ; Joris,  ibid.,  p.  586  ; Opitz,  ibid.,  viii.  p.  14  ; Szohner,  ibid.,  p.  308  ; Landerer, 
Therap.  Monatsch .,  iv.  88.)  Special  virtues  have  been  ascribed  to  it  in  diphtheria  (Ofner, 
Centralbl.  f Therap .,  iii.  395).  In  chronic  dysentery  its  action  is  often  extremely  salutary  ; 
and  the  same  may  be  said  of  its  use  in  the  diarrhoea  which  is  apt  to  persist  in  some  cases 
of  prolonged  typhoid  fever.  As  a dressing  for  various  ulcers , especially  those  of  the 
indolent  sort,  it  promotes  their  cure  by  stimulation  and  by  its  protective  agency.  It  is 
well  suited  for  treating  sore  nipples,  applied  pure  or  in  an  ointment  or  liniment ; for 
moderating  the  discharge  of  pus  in  chronic  catarrh  of  the  nostrils,  ears,  vagina,  etc. ; and 
as  a application  to  chilblains.  In  some  cases  of  obstinate  local  eczema  its  healing  virtues 
are  conspicuous.  According  to  circumstances  it  may  be  applied  pure  or  diluted  with 
glycerin,  almond  or  olive  oil,  lard,  etc.  It  speedily  kills  itch-insects  and  destroys  their 
eggs.  In  Germany  it  is  much  used  in  the  treatment  of  scabies,  as  being  no  less  efficient, 
and  much  more  agreeable,  than  sulphur  for  this  purpose.  It  causes  but  little  smarting 
or  irritation  of  the  skin.  Before  applying  it  the  patient  takes  a prolonged  warm  bath, 
with  or  without  green  soap,  after  which,  and  three  times  a day  for  about  two  days,  all  the 
body,  and  the  seats  of  the  eruption  particularly,  are  rubbed  with  about  40  drops  of  the 
balsam.  At  the  end  of  the  time  mentioned  the  cure  is  complete  (Husemann).  Balsam 
of  Peru  is  one  of  the  most  useful  of  all  applications  for  pruritus  vulvse  and  other  forms 
of  pruritus,  especially  the  senile.  It  is  best  applied  pure  with  the  finger  or  with  a soft 
brush.  The  addition  of  catechu  improves  its  healing  qualities  in  some  instances. 
Internally  it  may  be  given  in  the  doses  of  Gm.  2 (%ss)  in  an  emulsion  of  almonds,  gum- 
arabic,  or  yelk  of  egg,  with  sugar  or  dissolved  in  glycerin. 

Hoffmann's  balsam  is  used  in  Germany  as  a nervine  in  doses  of  from  Gm.  0.60-3.00 
(gtt.  x-xxx)  on  sugar,  in  wine,  or  in  appropriate  mixtures. 

BALSAMUM  TOLUTANUM,  U.  S.,  Br.— Balsam  of  Tolu. 

Baume  de  Tolu,  Baume  de  Cartliaghie , Fr. ; Tolubalsam,  G. ; Balsame  de  Tolu,  B. 
Blanco,  Sp. ; Balsamo  Tolutano,  F.  It. 

A balsam  obtained  from  Toluifera  Balsamum,  Linne,  s.  Myroxylon  toluifera,  Kunth, 


BALSAMVM  TOLUTANTJM. 


321 


s.  Myrospermum  toluiferum,  A.  Richard.  Woodville,  t.  215  ; Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med. 
Plants,  84. 

Nat.  Ord. — Leguminosae,  Papilionaceae. 

Origin. — This  evergreen  tree  attains  a height  of  21  to  24  M.  (70  to  80  feet),  rising 
usually  to  about  12  or  18  M.  (40  or  60  feet)  from  the  ground  without  branching.  Young 
trees  always  have  a larger  foliage  than  old  ones,  in  which  it  is  small  and  quite  thin  if 
they  have  been  much  bled.  The  leaflets  are  obovate,  the  flowers  axillary-racemose,  and 
the  legume  oblong-linear,  not  narrowed  at  the  base.  The  tree  is  found  in  the  high  rolling 
country  of  Venezuela  and  New  Granada.  Prof.  Baillon  regards  the  tree  yielding  Peru 
balsam  as  identical  with  this,  and  the  difference  of  the  two  products  as  due  to  the  manner 
in  which  they  are  extracted  ( Am . Jour.  Pharm.,  1874,  p.  14). 

Collection. — Two  sloping  notches  are  cut  through  the  bark,  meeting  at  their  lower 
ends  in  a sharp  angle,  below  which  the  bark  and  wood  are  hollowed  out  a little  to  receive 
the  calabash  cup  into  which  the  balsam  flows.  Similar  cuts  are  made  as  high  up  as  a man 
can  reach,  until  often  as  many  as  twenty  cups  are  found  on  one  tree.  When  the  lower 
part  of  the  trunk  is  too  full  of  scars  a rude  scaffold  is  sometimes  made  around  the  tree 
and  new  incisions  made  higher  up.  The  balsam-gatherer  collects  the  contents  of  the  cups 
in  flask-shaped  bags  made  of  raw-hide,  a pair  of  them  being  slung  over  the  back  of  a 
donkey.  When  filled  these  bags  are  sent  to  the  ports  of  exportation  on  Magdalena  River, 
where  their  contents  are  transferred  into  cylindrical  tins  (John  Weir,  Am.  Jour.  Pharm., 
1864,  p.  449). 

Commerce. — Tolu  balsam  is  exported  from  the  Venezuelan  ports  in  tins  holding  10 
(and  occasionally  25)  pounds.  The  amount  imported  into  the  United  States  varies  con- 
siderably. In  1876  it  was  9221  pounds,  and  in  1880,  52,085  pounds. 

Description. — Recently  imported,  Tolu  balsam  forms  a semi-liquid  mass  which  grad- 
ually hardens,  becoming  quite  brittle  in  the  cold,  but  softening  between  the  teeth  and 
fusing  readily  at  a somewhat  elevated  temperature.  In  thin  layers  it  is  perfectly  trans- 
parent and  of  a yellowish-  or  reddish-brown  color.  Viewed  under  the  microscope,  crystals 
of  cinnamic  acid  are  observed.  It  has  an  acid  reactiftn,  an  agreeable  aromatic  odor,  sug- 
gesting that  of  vanilla,  which  becomes  more  apparent  on  warming  it,  and  a mild  aromatic 
taste.  It  is  readily  soluble  in  alcohol,  chloroform,  potassa  solution,  and  acetone  ; also  in 
ether.  Petroleum  benzin,  benzene,  and  carbon  bisulphide  scarcely  act  upon  it. 

Constituents. — The  main  constituent  of  Tolu  balsam  is  an  amorphous  resin  which, 
according  to  Kopp  (1849),  consists  of  a portion  very  soluble,  and  another  but  slightly 
soluble,  in  alcohol.  Cinnamic  acid,  to  the  exclusion  of  benzoic  acid,  was  found  by  Kopp 
(1849),  Carles  (1844),  but  Busse  (1876)  proved  also  the  presence  of  benzoic  acid  and 
8.5  per  cent,  of  benzylic  ethers  of  cinnamic  and  benzoic  acids.  On  distillation  with  water 
about  1 per  cent,  of  tolene  is  obtained,  which  is  a colorless,  thin,  volatile  oil  boiling  at 
160°  C.  (170°,  Deville),  having  a specific  gravity  of  .858,  an  agreeable  odor,  an  acrid 
peppery  taste,  and  the  composition  C10H16.  Dry  distillation  yields,  in  addition  to  the 
ethers  and  acids  named  above,  also  styrol  (see  Storax),  phenol  (see  page  .39),  and 
toluol. 

Toluene,  or  toluol,  C7H8,  is  methylbenzene,  C6H5.CH3.  It  is  found  in  coal-tar  and  among 
the  products  of  destructive  distillation  of  wood,  various  resins,  and  many  organic  com- 
pounds. It  is  a colorless,  oily,  strongly  refractive  liquid,  of  the  spec.  grav.  .86,  boiling  at 
111°  C.  (231.8°  F.),  and  not  congealing  at  — 20°  C.  ( — 40°  F.).  Its  odor  is  similar  to 
that  of  benzene.  By  suitable  treatment  it  is  converted  into  benzoic  acid.  (See  page  35.) 

Adulterations. — Turpentines  are  sometimes  added,  and  may  be  detected  by  their 
solubility  in  carbon  bisulphide.  Concentrated  sulphuric  acid  imparts  to  pure  Tolu  balsam 
a cherry -red  color  ; in  the  presence  of  turpentine  the  acid  becomes  black.  Naylor  (1878) 
met  with  a spurious  balsam  of  Tolu,  which  had  a warm  acrid  taste,  and  was  completely 
soluble  in  carbon  bisulphide,  benzene,  chloroform,  ether,  and  hot  alcohol ; its  origin  is 
unknown. 

Allied  Plants. — Myroxylox  puxctatum,  Klotzsch,  s.  Myrospermum  balsamiferum,  Ruiz  et 
Pavon , s.  Toluifera  punctata,  Baillon , is  the  quino-quino  tree  of  Peru,  and  by  Bentley,  Fliick- 
iger,  and  others  is  regarded  as  not  being  distinct  from  the  tolu  balsam  tree. 

Myroxylox  peruiferum.  Linn 6 jilius,  s.  M.  pedicellatum,  Klotzsch , s.  Toluifera  peruifera. 
Baillon.  Peckolt  (1879,  1880)  showed  that  a balsam  resembling  Peru  balsam  may  be  obtained 
from  it,  which,  however,  has  only  the  spec.  grav.  1.031,  an  aromatic,  astringent,  and  slightly  pun- 
gent taste,  yields  clear  solutions  with  alcohol  and  castor  oil  in  all  proportions,  and  with  sul- 
phuric acid  does  not  yield  a brittle  resin,  but  a sticky,  somewhat  greasy  mass. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  general  properties  of  balsam  of  Tolu  resemble  those  of  bal- 
sam of  Peru,  but  are  much  less  decided.  Its  agreeable  flavor  renders  it  an  eligible  ingredient 
21 


322 


BAPTTSTA.-BARII  DIOXIDUM. 


of  mixtures,  lozenges,  vapors,  etc.  intended  to  modify  subacute  and  chronic  inflammations 
of  the  mucous  membrane,  especially  the  bronchial.  It  is  much  used  by  perfumers  in 
the  manufacture  of  burning  pastilles.  It  may  be  administered  in  emulsion  in  doses  of 
from  Gm.  0.60—2.00  (10  to  30  grains).  Its  most  usual  form  in  medicine  is  the  syrup. 

Bowdichia  major , known  in  Brazil  as  sebipira  guacu,  is  said  to  be  used  in  that  country 
in  the  treatment  of  fevers  and  of  rheumatic  and  gouty  pains  (Med.  Record ’,  xxviii. 
697.) 

BAPTISIA  —Wild  Indigo. 

Indigo  sauvage , Fr. ; Baptisie,  G. 

The  root  of  Baptisia  (Sophora,  Linne , Podalyria,  Michaux ) tinctoria,  R.  Brown. 

Nat.  Ord. — Leguminosae,  Papilionaceae. 

Origin. — Wild  indigo  is  a common,  smooth,  perennial  herb  growing  in  dry  sandy 
ground  in  the  United  States  and  Canada.  The  branching  stem  is  about  60  Cm.  (2  feet) 
high  ; the  leaves  are  trifoliate,  the  leaflets  roundish-obovate  and  wedge-shaped  at  base ; the 
stipules  minute  and  caducous  ; the  yellow  flowers  are  in  small,  loose  racemes.  On  drying 
the  herb  becomes  bluish-black. 

Description. — The  root  consists  of  a short,  knotty  head  which  is  50  to  75  Mm.  (2  to 
3 inches)  broad,  with  irregular  and  broad  stem-scars  above,  and  below  divided  into 
several  long  cylindrical  branches  about  12  Mm.  (£  inch)  in  diameter,  which  are  sparingly 
beset  with  branching  fibres.  The  bark  is  externally  of  a dark-brown  color,  with  small 
warts  somewhat  arranged  in  transverse  rows  or  with  a soft  and  friable  corky  layer  ; inter- 
nally whitish,  radially  striate,  thick  and  covering  a whitish,  tough,  and  tasteless  wood 
with  indistinct  medullary  rays.  Boots  of  one  year’s  growth  are  smaller,  of  a light-brown 
color  externally,  and  have  the  ligneous  meditullium  about  as  thick  as  the  bark.  The 
root  is  nearly  inodorous  and  has  a bitterish,  acrid,  and  nauseous  taste  residing  in  the 
bark. 

Constituents. — Wild  indigo-£Oot  contains  resin,  but  no  volatile  or  fixed  oil  (Smed- 
ley,  1862).  An  alkaloid,  of  which  the  hydrochlorate  has  a nauseous  and  acrid  taste, 
was  obtained  by  J.  A.  Weaver  (1871).  Dr.  F.  V.  Greene  (1879)  found  the  alkaloid  to 
be  insoluble  in  chloroform,  benzin,  and  benzene,  but  to  dissolve  in  water,  alcohol,  and 
ether.  According  to  Yon  Schroeder  (1885),  the  root  contains  baptisin  a bitter  glucoside 
which  is  insoluble  in  water;  baptin , a glucoside  crystallizing  in  needles  and  soluble  in 
water  ; and  baptitoxin , a poisonous  alkaloid. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  y^ung  shoots  of  baptisia,  like  those  of  phytolacca,  have 
been  eaten  in  the  same  manner  as  asparagus.  When  more  mature  the  stalks  and  roots 
are  violently  emetic  and  cathartic,  especially  when  fresh.  A decoction  of  the  bark  has 
like  effects.  Butherford’s  experiments  led  him  to  conclude  that  the  extract,  baptisin,  “in  the 
dog  is  an  hepatic  and  also  an  intestinal  stimulant  of  moderate  power.”  Analogous  results 
have  been  obtained  by  Desnos  (Ball,  de  Therap .,  cx.  55.)  Baptisia  would  seem  to  be  a 
general  stimulant,  since  it  has  been  held  in  great  repute  as  a remedy  in  scarlatina , typhus , 
and  epidemic  dysentery , and  also  as  a topical  application  in  aphthse , mercurial  sore  mouth , 
and  various  ulcers , especially  those  affected  with  gangrene.  For  the  last-mentioned  pur- 
pose it  has  been  applied  in  a poultice  or  an  ointment.  The  leaves  possess  the  same  virtues 
as  the  root,  but  in  a less  degree.  A tincture  of  the  root,  in  the  dose  of  from  1 to  5 
drops  every  one  to  four  hours,  is  credited  with  “ almost  entirely  preventing  delirium  and 
diarrhoea,  diminishing  the  heat,  and  soon  effecting  a cure  ” of  typhoid  fever.  But  as  it  was 
associated  in  the  treatment  with  “ cool  lotions,  milk,  and  stimulants,”  the  alleged  results 
cannot  be  ascribed  to  it ; they  indeed,  are  incompatible  with  the  laws  of  typhoid  fever 
(Amer.  Jour.  Phar .,  1.  89).  Wild  indigo  is  given  in  decoction  made  with  an  ounce  of 
the  recent  root  to  a pint  of  boiling  water ; the  dose  is  about  Gm.  16  (f^ss)  every  three  or 
four  hours ; its  tendency  to  occasion  vomiting  and  purging  may  be  diminished  by  lessen- 
ing the  dose  or  adding  laudanum  to  the  liquid.  Baptisin  may  be  given  in  pill  and  in 
the  dose  of  Gm.  0.10-0.40  (gr.  ij-vj). 

BARII  DIOXIDUM,  77.  S. — Barium  Dioxide. 

Barium  Peroxide , E. ; Peroxyde  debaryum , Fr.  ; Bariumhyperoxyd , G. 

Formula  Ba02.  Molecular  weight  168.82. 

Commercial  anhydrous  barium  dioxide. — U.  S. 

Preparation. — Barium  dioxide  is  prepared  by  conducting  oxygen  or  atmospheric 
air  over  barium  oxide  or  hydroxide  heated  to  full  redness. 


BARIUM. 


323 


Properties  and  Tests. — “ A heavy,  grayish-white,  or  pale  yellowish-white,  amor- 
phous solid,  odorless  and  tasteless,  and  permanent  in  the  air.  Almost  insoluble  in  cold 
water,  with  which,  however,  it  forms  a definite  hydrate,  and  to  which  it  imparts  a decid- 
edly alkaline  reaction.  Hydrochloric,  phosphoric,  and  most  other  mineral  acids  decom- 
pose it,  producing  the  corresponding  barium  salts,  and  hydrogen  dioxide  which  remains 
in  solution  for  a considerable  time,  if  the  reaction  has  taken  place  in  the  cold  and  an 
excess  of  the  acid  is  present.  When  heated  to  a bright-red  heat,  barium  dioxide  fuses, 
loses  oxygen  and  is  reduced  to  barium  oxide.  Barium  dioxide  should  be  dissolved  by 
diluted  hydrochloric  acid  without  leaving  more  than  a trace  of  residue.  If  0.422  Gm.  of 
barium  dioxide,  in  powder,  be  dissolved,  as  completely  as  possible,  in  10  Cc.  of  ice-cold 
water,  with  the  aid  of  a sufficient  quantity  of  phosphoric  acid,  it  should  require  not  less 
than  40  Cc.  of  decinormal  potassium  permanganate  solution  to  impart  to  the  liquid  a 
permanent  pink  tint,  corresponding  to  not  less  than  80  per  cent,  of  pure  barium  dioxide 
(each  Cc.  of  the  volumetric  solution  indicating  2 percent,  of  the  latter).” — U.  S. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Barium  dioxide  is  employed  in  making  the  official 
hydrogen  dioxide  solution. 


BARIUM.— Barium. 

Barium,  E.,  G. ; Baryum , Fr. 

Symbol  Ba.  Atomicity  bivalent.  Atomic  weight  136.9. 

Origin. — Tile  mineral  heavy  spar  first  attracted  attention  about  1602  through  the 
discovery  of  a phosphorescent  compound  obtained  by  igniting  a mixture  of  the  mineral 
and  organic  substances.  The  presence  in  the  mineral  of  sulphuric  acid  was  demonstrated 
by  Marggraf  (1750),  and  of  a peculiar  earth  by  Scheele  (1774)  and  Gahn  (1775.) 
Crawford  (1787)  first  used  the  barium  chloride  medicinally.  An  amalgam  of  barium 
was  obtained  (1808)  by  Berzelius  and  Pontin,  and  in  the  same  year  Davy  isolated  the 
metal  by  distilling  the  mercury  from  the  amalgam. 

Properties. — Barium  is  a lustrous,  light-yellow  metal  of  the  spec.  grav.  3.6,  and  is 
rapidly  oxidized  on  exposure  to  air  and  in  water.  The  following  compounds  are  more  or 
less  employed  in  medicine,  in  chemistry,  or  in  the  arts : 

1.  Barii  hydroxidum. — Barium  hydroxide,  E.  \ Hydrate  de  baryte,  Fr. ; Barythy- 
drat,  G.  Formula  Ba(OH)2.  Mol.  weight  170.82. — Barium  oxide  is  first  prepared  by 
calcining  barium  nitrate,  or  a mixture  of  this  salt  with  barium  sulphate ; the  oxide  is 
dissolved  in  water,  the  solution  decanted,  if  necessary,  from  the  insoluble  matter,  then 
evaporated  to  dryness  and  heated  to  redness.  It  forms  a white  crystalline  mass  or  a 
white  powder,  has  the  spec.  grav.  4.5,  a strong  alkaline  reaction,  and  is  freely  soluble  in 
water.  It  is  employed  for  the  decomposition  of  sulphates,  carbonates,  etc.  Its  purity 
is  determined  in  the  same  manner  as  that  of  barium  carbonate ; it  does  not  effervesce 
with  acids. 

2.  Barii  carbonas,  U.  S.  1870;  Barium  carbonicum,  Barya  carbonica,  Carbonas 

baryticus. — Barium  carbonate,  E. ; Carbonate  de  baryte,  Fr. ; Kohlensaures  Barium, 
Kohlensaurer  Baryt,  G.  Formula  BaCOs.  Mol.  weight  196.85. — Barium  carbonate  is 
found  native,  as  witherite , in  large  quantities  in  the  lead-mines  at  Alston  Moor  and  at 
Anglesark  in  Lancashire,  England.  It  is  also  met  with  in  Scotland  and  Sweden.  It  may 
be  obtained  artificially  by  precipitating  a soluble  barium  salt  with  an  alkali  carbonate,  or 
by  heating  to  redness  and  fusion  a mixture  of  10  parts  of  heavy  spar  (barium  sulphate), 
2 of  carbon,  and  5 of  potash,  and  washing  the  fused  mass  with  water,  when  barium  car- 
bonate is  left  behind.  Its  formation  is  explained  by  the  following  equation  : BaS04  4- 

C2  4-  2KOH  - BaC03  + K2S  + C02  + H20. 

Witherite  is  found  in  pale-yellowish  or  grayish  fibrous  masses  or  in  rhombic  crystals 
varying  in  specific  gravity  between  4.3  and  4.56.  The  artificially-prepared  barium  car- 
bonate forms  a soft,  white,  amorphous  or  crystalline,  tasteless  powder.  Its  specific 
gravity  is  4.22  to  4.307.  It  requires  over  15,000  parts  of  boiling  water  for  solution,  but 
dissolves  more  readily  in  solution  of  chloride  and  some  other  salts  of  ammonium,  and  is 
also  slightly  soluble  in  some  carbonates,  and  even  sulphates.  When  recently  precipi- 
tated it  decomposes  the  solutions  of  many  salts,  precipitating  the  metals  either  as 
hydroxides  or  carbonates.  Owing  to  its  solubility  in  hydrochloric  and  other  acids,  it 
acts  as  a poison  when  taken  internally. 

Barium  carbonate  should  be  completely  soluble,  with  effervescence,  in  dilute  hydro- 
chloric acid  (absence  of  barium  sulphate).  The  solution  is  not  colored  or  precipitated 
by  ammonia  or  hydrogen  sulphide  (absence  of  lead  and  other  metals).  When  the  solu- 


324 


BARIUM. 


tion  is  precipitated  by  excess  of  sulphuric  acid  the  filtrate,  on  being  evaporated,  should 
leave  no  fixed  residue  (absence  of  alkalies),  and  should  yield  no  precipitate  with  sodium 
carbonate  (absence  of  calcium  and  other  earths). 

3.  Barii  sulphas,  Heavy  spar,  E.  ; Spath  pesant,  Fr. ; Schwerspath,  G.  Formula 
BaSO*.  Mol.  weight  232.72. — This  is  a mineral  from  which  other  barium  compounds 
are  prepared  by  converting  it  first  into  soluble  sulphide  in  the  manner  indicated  below  ; 
on  treating  its  solution  with  dilute  sulphuric  acid,  barium  sulphate  is  again  formed,  and 
this  is  used  under  the  name  of  permanent  white  or  hlanc  fix  for  glazing  cards  and  by 
painters  in  place  of  white  lead. 

4.  Barii  chloridum,  U.  S.  1870;  Baryum  chloratum,  Baryta  muriatica. — Barium 
chloride,  E.  ; Chlorure  de  baryum,  Fr.  ; Chlorbaryum,  Chlorbarium,  G.  Formula  BaCl2. 
2H20.  Mol.  weight  243.56. — It  is  prepared  by  dissolving  barium  carbonate  in  diluted 
hydrochloric  acid,  evaporating  the  solution,  and  crystallizing.  On  the  large  scale  it  is 
obtained  sometimes  as  a secondary  product,  as  in  the  preparation  of  ammonium  carbonate 
(see  page  182),  or  is  made  from  native  barium  sulphate  (heavy  spar)  by  igniting  its 
mixture  with  charcoal,  so  as  to  form  barium  sulphide,  and  carbon  dioxide  according  to  the 
equation  BaS04  + C2  — BaS  + 2C02.  The  barium  sulphide  thus  obtained  is  then  dis- 
solved in  water  and  boiled  with  some  excess  of  hydrochloric  acid,  whereby  hydrogen 
sulphide  is  given  off,  barium  chloride  remaining  in  solution  ; BaS  + 2HC1  yields  BaCl2 
4-  H2S.  By  evaporating  the  solution  the  salt  is  obtained  in  crystals. 

Barium  chloride  exists  in  colorless,  translucent  rhomboidal  tables  or  lamellae.  It  is 
permanent  in  the  air  at  the  ordinary  temperature,  but  loses  one-half  of  its  water  above 
55°  C.  (131°  F.),  and  becomes  anhydrous  at  121°  C.  (249.8°  F.).  100  parts  of  water 

retain  at  105°  C.  (221°  F.)  60  parts,  at  40°  C.  (104°  F.)  about  41,  at  20°  C.  (68°  F.) 
35.7,  and  at  10°  C.  (59°  F.)  34.3  parts  of  the  salt  in  solution  (Molder).  The  aqueous 
solutions  are  partly  precipitated  by  strong  hydrochloric  and  nitric  acids,  in  which  the 
salt  is  less  soluble  than  in  water.  It  is  insoluble  in  absolute  alcohol,  but  dissolves  in 
spirit  containing  water,  and  imparts  to  the  alcohol-flame  a yellow  color.  It  possesses 
the  persistently  bitter  and  disagreeable  astringent  taste  of  the  soluble  barium  salts.  Its 
solution  yields  with  silver  nitrate  and  with  potassium  sulphate  or  dilute  sulphuric  acid 
copious  white  precipitates,  which  are  insoluble  in  nitric  acid.  Phosphates,  carbonates, 
and  the  salts  of  most  organic  acids  yield  with  barium  chloride  precipitates  which  are 
insoluble  in  water,  but  dissolve  in  nitric  or  hydrochloric  acid. 

Barium  chloride  should  be  entirely  soluble  in  water  (absence  of  barium  carbonate  and 
sulphate),  and  the  solution  should  not  be  colored  or  precipitated  by  ammonia  or  hydro- 
gen sulphide  (absence  of  lead  and  other  metals).  When  precipitated  by  an  excess  of 
sulphuric  acid  the  filtrate  should  leave  no  fixed  residue  on  evaporation  (absence  of  alka- 
lies), and  should  yield  no  precipitate  with  sodium  carbonate  (absence  of  calcium  and 
other  earths).  Alcohol  shaken  with  the  powdered  salt,  then  poured  off  and  ignited, 
should  not  burn  with  a red  flame  (absence  of  strontium  chloride). 

5.  Liquor  barii  chloridi. — Solution  of  barium  chloride,  E.  ; Solute  de  chlorure  de 
baryum,  Fr.  ; Chlorbarium-Losung,  G. — Dissolve  barium  chloride  1 troyounce  in  dis- 
tilled water  3 fluidounces,  U.  iS.  1870. 

6.  Barii  bromidum. — Barium  bromide,  E. ; Bromure  de  baryum,  Fr.  ; Brombarium, 
G.  BaBr2.2H20.  Mol.  weight  332.34. — It  is  obtained  on  dissolving  barium  carbonate 
in  hydrobromic  acid,  and  crystallizes  in  colorless  rhombic  plates,  which  dissolve  in  their 
own  weight  of  cold  water  and  are  freely  soluble  in  alcohol.  The  salt  has  a very  disagree- 
able taste. 

7.  Barii  iodidum. — Barium  iodide,  E. ; Iodure  de  baryum,  Fr. ; Jodbarium,  G. 
BaI2.2H20.  Mol.  weight  425.88. — It  is  conveniently  made  by  boiling  a solution  of 
iodide  of  iron  with  excess  of  barium  carbonate,  filtering,  and  crystallizing.  It  forms 
large  transparent  rhombic  prisms  which  are  very  freely  soluble  in  water  and  alcohol,  and 
when  heated  melt  and  become  anhydrous. 

Action  and  Uses. — An  overdose  of  chloride  of  barium  may  produce  the  symptoms 
common  to  the  irritant  poisons — abdominal  pain,  vomiting,  purging,  collapse  with 
thready  pulse,  general  muscular  asthenia,  coma,  convulsions,  and  death.  The  most 
characteristic  symptoms  are  labored  respiration  and  bronchial  effusion.  After  death  the 
lesions  in  the  stomach  consist  of  vascular  injection  and  extravasation,  and  even  ulcera- 
tion. The  carbonate  is  said  to  have  destroyed  life  in  at  least  three  cases.  Of  four 
persons  who  were  poisoned  by  this  compound,  three  suffered  from  weakness  of  the  lower 
limbs  ; the  fourth  had  paralysis  of  the  legs  and  trunk,  and  death  occurred  on  the  second 
day.  No  lesions  whatever  were  found  in  the  stomach  or  bowels  (Ileincke,  Practitioner , 


BEBERINJE  SULPHAS. 


325 


xx ii.  49).  In  a case  which  ended  in  recovery  the  patient  complained  of  dimness  of  sight, 
double  vision,  headache,  tinnitus,  and  cramps,  with  occasional  vomiting  and  purging. 
In  another  case  the  principal  symptoms  were  numbness  of  the  feet,  cramps  in  the  legs, 
and  general  coldness  of  the  body  ( Edinb . Med.  Jour .,  xxviii.  651). 

Hufeland  claimed  that  in  glandular  scrofula  its  virtues  “ do  not  yield  either  to  mer- 
cury or  antimony;”  which  might  very  well  be  the  case  even  if  it  were  more  injurious 
than  useful.  Yet  a large  number  of  writers  might  be  cited  who  attribute  to  it  a pecu- 
liar efficacy  in  this  disease,  for  which  it  was  one  of  the  approved  remedies  in  the  first 
quarter  of  this  century  (Richter,  op.  cit.').  More  recently  Phillips  held  that  as  a local 
discutient  it  is  not  inferior  to  iodine,  and  that  in  cases  where  “ the  tallow-like  complexion, 
the  pale  tongue,  and  the  languid  circulation,  accompanied  by  irritability  of  the  mucous 
surfaces,  are  present,  its  virtues  are  remarkably  demonstrated.”  A later  and  a better 
authority,  Lebert,  declares  that  he  has  “ never  obtained  the  slightest  advantage  from  its 
use  ” in  glandular  scrofula.  And  this  experience,  we  apprehend,  is  more  weighty  than 
that  of  a multitude  of  less  competent  judges.  In  other  forms  of  scrofula  affecting  the 
joints,  eyes,  etc.  the  evidence  of  its  utility  is,  if  possible,  still  less.  Dujardin-Beaumetz, 
however,  attributes  real  antiscrofulous  virtues  to  the  medicine.  Dr.  F.  Flint  ascribes 
the  apparent  cure  of  an  aneurism  of  the  abdominal  aorta  to  the  administration  of  chloride 
of  barium  in  doses  of  from  4 to  f grain  three  times  a day  for  nearly  five  months.  This  took 
place  after  the  diet-and-rest  cure  had  been  tried  for  an  equal  period  without  benefit  (. Prac- 
titioner, xxiii.  37).  Dr.  DaCosta  (Amer.  Jour.  Med.  Sci .,  Nov.  1888,  p.  451)  found  it 
“ both  a general  tonic  and  a cardiac  tonic,  a remedy  that  increases  the  tone  of  the  blood- 
vessels, a fairly  good  diuretic,  and  one  that  can  be  taken  for  a long  time  without  disor- 
dering the  stomach ; ” and  he  particularly  noted  its  virtues  in  cardiac  pain  or  uneasiness 
caused  by  defective  compensation.  These  conclusions  were  confirmed  by  the  clinical 
observations  of  Dr.  II.  A.  Hare,  in  which  the  pulse-rate  was  notably  reduced,  its  tone 
improved,  and  its  volume  and  duration  increased  (Med.  News , liv.  183 ; University  Med. 
Mag.,  i.  366).  The  virtues  attributed  to  natural  mineral  waters  containing  barium  salts 
in  the  treatment  of  cutaneous  diseases  are  no  doubt  more  or  less  real,  but  that  they  are 
in  any  degree  due  to  the  minute  proportion  of  those  salts  present  in  the  waters  is  a 
groundless  hypothesis.  The  dose  originally  was  about  i grain  (Richter).  It  may  be 
stated  at  from  6m.  0.03-0.12  (gr.  |-2)  dissolved  in  a large  quantity  of  water  and  taken 
after  meals.  Dr.  DaCosta  mentions  y1^  grain  as  the  proper  dose. 

Of  the  remaining  salts  of  barium,  the  sulphate,  and  nitrate  have  not  been  used  in 
medicine;  the  oxide  was  formerly  employed  as  a caustic,  and  the  carbonate  as  an  anti- 
parasitic  in  certain  diseases  of  the  shin.  The  iodide,  like  the  chloride,  is  an  irritant  poison 
when  taken  in  large  doses,  but  small  doses  of  it  are  said  to  have  the  same  virtues  as  the 
chloride  in  scrofula.  Poisoning  by  barium  salts  should  be  treated  by  non-irritant  emetics 
and  draughts  of  weak  solutions  of  sulphate  of  magnesium  or  sodium,  followed  by  albu- 
minous drinks  and  diffusible  stimulants. 

BEBERIILE  SULPHAS,  Br. — Beberine  Sulphate. 

Sulfate  dr  bebeerine , Fr. ; Schwefelsaures  Bebirin , Gr. ; Sulfato  de  bibirina , Sp. 

Prepared  from  nectandra-  or  bebeeru-bark. 

Preparation. — Bebeeru-bark  is  exhausted  by  percolation  with  water  acidulated  with 
sulphuric  acid  ; the  percolate  is  concentrated  ; when  cool,  mixed  with  milk  of  lime,  taking 
care  that  the  fluid  still  retains  a distinct  acid  reaction  ; after  2 hours  it  is  filtered  through 
calico,  and  the  filtrate  precipitated  with  ammonia ; the  precipitate  is  washed,  dried,  pow- 
dered, and  exhausted  with  boiling  rectified  spirit;  the  spirituous  solution,  mixed  with 
some  distilled  water,  is  distilled ; the  residue  is  slightly  acidulated  with  diluted  sulphuric 
acid,  evaporated  to  complete  dryness  on  the  water-bath,  the  dry  product  powdered  and 
mixed  with  cold  distilled  water ; the  solution  filtered  through  paper,  evaporated  to  the 
consistence  of  syrup,  spread  on  flat  porcelain  or  glass  plates,  and  dried  at  a heat  not 
exceeding  57°  C.  (140°  F.). — Br. 

The  percolate  obtained  with  acidulated  water  contains,  besides  the  alkaloidal  sulphates, 
beberic  acid,  which  is  almost  completely  removed  by  the  lime.  Ammonia  precipitates 
from  the  filtrate  impure  beberine,  together  with  some  lime  compounds.  From  this  mix- 
ture alcohol  takes  up  the  alkaloids  still  contaminated  with  coloring  matter,  which  is  not 
removed  by  the  subsequent  treatment  with  sulphuric  acid.  But,  after  evaporating  to 
dryness  and  redissolving  in  cold  water,  some  foreign  matters  which  are  soluble  in  the  acid 
solution  remain  on  the  filter. 


326 


BELM  FRUCTUS. 


Properties. — Thus  prepared,  sulphate  of  heherine  (or  bibirine')  forms  dark -brown, 
thin,  translucent  scales,  yielding  a brownish-yellow  powder  having  a bitter  taste  and  being 
completely  soluble  in  water  and  in  alcohol.  The  commercial  salt  yields  with  from  6 to  8 
parts  of  water  a clear  solution,  but  on  further  dilution  a precipitate  is  sometimes  occa- 
sioned which  J.  Nesbit  (1881)  found  to  be  due  to  a deficiency  of  sulphuric  acid ; on  sup- 
plying this  only  a slight  amount  of  oxidation-product  remains  undissolved.  Dott  (1881) 
found  the  scaly  salt  to  contain  about  15  per  cent,  of  water,  7.8  per  cent,  of  S03,  and 
about  60  to  64  per  cent,  of  mixed  alkaloids,  the  remainder  being  extractive  and  coloring 
matter,  Beberine,  C36H42N206,  is  considered  to  be  identical  with  buxine,  paricine,  and 
pelosine.  Whether  Maclagan’s  sipirine  (1843)  is  identical  with  his  nectandrine , obtained 
(1869)  from  nectandra-wood,  has  not  been  proved,  though  this  is  probable.  That  solu- 
tions of  the  salts  of  these  mixed  alkaloids  are  precipitated  by  certain  acids  and  neutral 
salts  has  been  repeatedly  observed  ; Palm  (1883)  recommends  the  separation  of  beberine 
from  the  other  alkaloids  by  precipitating  its  solution  with  sodium  chloride.  (See  also 
Nectandra  and  Pareira  Brava.) 

Tests. — The  official  salt  yields  a white  precipitate  with  barium  chloride,  and  with 
caustic  soda  a yellowish-white  precipitate  which  is  soluble  in  ether,  and  on  evaporating 
the  solvent  is  again  left  as  a yellow  translucent  residue  entirely  soluble  in  dilute  acids. 
When  ignited  with  free  access  of  air,  it  should  burn  without  leaving  any  fixed  residue. 

Medical  Action  and  Uses. — Administered  hypodermically  to  frogs,  it  produces 
tetanic  rigidity  without  exaggerated  reflex  excitability,  in  which  respect  it  resembles 
quinine,  caffeine,  and  theine,  and  differs  from  strychnine.  Internally,  it  does  not  pro- 
duce the  headache,  tinnitus,  deafness,  gastric  irritation,  etc.  which  quinine  sometimes 
occasions,  while  it  equals  that  alkaloid  in  its  tonic  influences  upon  the  appetite  and 
digestion.  Introduced  as  a substitute  for  quinine,  it  has  not  confirmed  the  estimate 
originally  made  of  its  efficacy  : for  although,  like  the  greater  number  of  vegetable  bitters, 
it  displays  anti-periodic  virtues,  and  like  some  of  them  also  it  will  occasionally  effect  a 
cure  of  intermittent  fever,  yet  on  the  whole  its  powers  must  be  rated  much  lower  than 
those  of  the  cinchona  salts.  It  has  been  found  curative  in  some  cases  of  periodical  head- 
ache and  neuralgia  of  the  same  type,  and  as  a useful  tonic  in  the  general  debility  of  pul- 
monary phthisis  and  of  prolonged  suppuration  with  hectic  fever.  In  strumous  ophthalmia , 
atonic  dyspepsia , certain  cases  of  menorrhagia , leucorrhoea , etc.  it  may  be  used  as  a substi- 
tute for  quinine.  The  dose  as  a tonic  is  from  Gm.  0.06  to  0.20  (gr.  1—3) ; as  an  anti- 
periodic,  from  Gm.  0.30  to  0.60  (gr.  5-10).  It  may  be  given,  like  sulphate  of  quinine, 
in  a watery  solution  with  an  excess  of  aromatic  sulphuric  acid. 

BELiE  FRUCTUS,  Br.— Bael-Fruit. 

Indian  bael , Bengal  quince,  E.  ; Coing  du  B eng  ale,  Fr. ; Bengalische  Quitte , G. 

The  dried,  half-ripe  fruit  of  iEgle  Marmelos,  Correa , s.  Crataeva  Marmelos,  Linne , s.  C. 
religiosa,  Ainslie.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 55. 

Nat.  Ord. — Butacese,  Aurantieac. 

Origin. — The  bael  tree  (also  known  as  hel  and  held)  is  of  medium  size,  thorny,  has 
ternate  leaves  and  large  white  flowers,  and  is  indigenous  to  the  Himalaya  Mountains  and 
much  cultivated  throughout  India.  The  leaves  yield  an  aromatic  volatile  oil. 

Description. — The  fruit  is  from  5 to  10  Cm.  (2-4  inches)  in  diameter,  more  or  less 
globular  in  shape,  and  resembles  an  orange  of  large  size  in  appearance  and  internal 
arrangement,  it  being  divided  into  about  twelve  cells,  containing  in  the  ripe  state  a pleasant- 
flavored,  highly  mucilaginous  juice,  while  the  rind  is  quite  aromatic.  As  found  in  com- 
merce, the  fruit  is  mostly  broken,  a portion  of  the  dried  pulp  and  seeds  still  adhering  to 
the  fragments  of  the  rind.  The  latter  is  smooth  and  of  a brownish-gray  color  externally, 
about  3 Mm.  (-i-  inch)  thick,  hard,  and  destitute  of  aromatic  properties.  The  exposed 
portion  of  the  dried  pulp  is  of  a deep-orange,  red-brown,  or  bright  brownish -red  color, 
whitish  within,  hard,  of  a mucilaginous  very  slightly  acidulous  taste,  and  encloses  in 
each  cell  about  eight  oblong,  flat,  and  woolly  seeds. 

Constituents. — These  have  not  been  well  ascertained.  The  rind  contains  mucilaginous 
and  pectin  compounds,  but  appears  to  be  free  from  tannin,  which,  according  to  Collas 
(1856),  is  found  in  the  ripe  fruit  to  the  amount  of  5 per  cent.  The  infusion  of  bael  is 
scarcely  affected  by  iron  salts.  The  pulp  yields  3.72  per  cent,  of  ash  (Warnecke). 

Allied  Drugs. — Feronia  elephantum,  Correa.  Its  fruit  is  the  elephant-apple  or  wood-apple  of 
India,  and  resembles  bael,  but  is  externally  scurfy,  granular,  and  gray-green ; is  divided  into 
about  five  cells,  and  contains  several  hundred  seeds.  The  dry  pulp  contains  mucilage  and  15 
per  cent,  of  citric  acid  ( Pharmacogr . Indica). 


BELLADONNA. 


327 


Action  and  Uses. — Bael  is,  and  long;  has  been,  used  in  India,  where  the  British 
practitioners  ascribe  to  it  astringent,  aromatic,  and  demulcent  qualities.  It  enjoys  in 
that  country  great  repute,  especially  in  the  treatment  of  some  forms  of  bowel  com- 
plaint. The  pulp  of  the  fresh  ripe  fruit  is  used  with  sugar  to  make  a draught  (sherbet) 
which,  according  to  Waring,  “is  not  only  astringent  when  diarrhoea  exists,  but  possesses 
the  singular  property  of  being  also  aperient  if  the  bowels  are  costive .”  The  rind  of  the 
unripe  fruit  and  the  bark  of  the  root  and  of  the  trunk  of  the  tree  are  tonic  and  astringent, 
and  the  first  named  is  employed  as  a topical  astringent ; the  expressed  juice  of  the  leaves 
“ is  commonly  given  in  colds  and  incipient  fevers  when  the  patient  complains  of  general 
dulness,  pains  in  his  limbs,  and  a sense  of  fulness  in  the  stomach  ;”  the  young  leaves  are 
applied  warm  to  the  eyes  in  ophthalmia;  and  a decoction  of  the  unripe  fruit  is  prescribed 
in  diarrhoea  and  dysentery.  In  chronic  diarrhoea  following  typhoid  fever  Christison  found 
it  singularly  efficient.  He  says:  “ It  is  an  incomprehensible  remedy — has  neither  aroma 
nor  taste,  and  certainly  no  astringency,  ” in  the  dried  state.  The  liquid  extract  appears 
to  be  the  best  preparation  of  bael.  It  has  been  given  in  doses  of  Gm.  4 to  8 (f^i-ij). 
(Fayrer,  Times  and  Gaz .,  June,  1878,  pp.  661,  645;  July,  1878,  p.  86.) 


Folia  (s.  Herba) 
Fr .;  Belladonna- 


BELLADONNA,  TJ.  S.,  Br.,  P.  G.,  F.  It.—  Belladonna. 

Deadly  nightshade , Dwale,  E. ; Belladone , Morelle  furieuse,  Fr.;  Tollkirsche , Wolfskirsche, 
Tollkraut , Belladonna , G.  ; Belladona , Sp. 

Atropa  Belladonna,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 193. 

Nat.  Ord. — Solanaceae,  Atropeae. 

Official  Parts.  — 1.  Belladonna  folia,  U.  S.,  Br .,  F.  It.; 
belladonnae,  P.  G. — Belladonna-leaves,  E. ; Feuilles  de  belladone, 

Blatter,  G. 

The  leaves. 

2.  Belladonna  radix,  V.  S.,  Br .,  F.  It. — Belladonna-root,  E. ; Bacine  de  belladone, 
Fr. ; Belladonnawurzel,  G. 

The  root. 

Origin. — Belladonna  is  a nearly  glabrous,  herbaceous,  perennial  plant,  attaining  a 
height  of  from  1.2  to  1.8  Mm.  (4  to  6 feet),  and  has  dark-purple  bell-shaped  flowers  and 
glossy  purplish-black  berries  of  the  size  of  a cherry.  It  is  found  in  the  woods,  chiefly  in 
mountainous  districts,  of  Central  and  Southern  Europe,  and  as  far  east  as  Asia  Minor, 

Caucasia,  and  Central  Asia.  It  is  cultivated  in 
Fig.  38.  Europe  and  in  this  country  to  a certain  extent. 

Description. — 1.  Belladonna-root.  As 
collected  from  plants  several  years  old,  the  roots 
are  30  Cm.  (a  foot)  or  more  long,  12  to  25  Mm. 

Fig.  39. 


Belladonna- root. : transverse  section. 

(I  inch  to  1 inch)  thick,  cylindrical  above  and 
gradually  tapering,  fleshy,  and  in  the  dry  state 
with  deep  longitudinal  wrinkles.  The  head  is 
frequently  crowned  with  the  hollow  bases  of  the 
overground  stems ; the  bark  is  covered  with  a 
brownish-gray  cork,  or,  after  its  removal,  is  of  a 
light  gray  or  grayish-white  color  externally  and 
somewhat  lighter  internally.  A fine  blackish 
cambium-line  separates  the  bark  from  the  meditullium  in  which  the  small  yellow  wood- 
bundles,  with  large  vessels,  are  arranged  in  radiating  wedges,  separated  by  rather  broad 


Atropa  belladonna,  LAnnfr,  branch,  fruit,  seed, 
and  section  of  seed,  the  last  two  magnified. 


328 


BELLADONNA. 


medullary  rays  ; near  the  centre  and  in  the  young  branches  the  wood  bundles  are  loosely 
scattered  around  a central  ligneous  cord,  while  in  the  old  roots  the  woody  tissue  pre-  ' 
dominates  considerably.  When  fresh  the  root  has  a disagreeable,  heavy  odor,  which 
disappears  on  drying,  leaving  merely  a faint  earthy  smell.  The  taste  is  not  very 
marked,  being  at  first  sweetish,  with  a bitterish  and  somewhat  acrid  after-taste.  The 
fracture  of  young  roots  is  nearly  smooth  and  mealy,  of  old  roots  woody  and  tough. 
Young  branches,  peeled  and  dried,  have  some  resemblance  to  marshmallow-root.  (See 
Althea.)  Belladonna-root  is  best  collected  at  or  shortly  after  the  flowering  period ; 
from  old  plants  only  soft  root-branches  should  be  preserved,  but  tough  woody  roots,  which 
are  sometimes  5 Cm.  (2  inches)  and  more  thick,  should  be  rejected  for  pharmaceutical  use. 
The  former  German  Pharmacopoeia  directed  the  root  to  be  kept  not  more  than  one  year. 

2.  Belladonna-leaves. — The  forking  stem  bears  above  numerous  bright-green 
broadly  ovate  or  ovate-oblong  leaves,  with  the  margin  entire,  and  arranged  in  unequal 
pairs,  one  being  about  one-half  the  size  of  the  other.  They  attain  a length  of  10  to  15 
Cm.  (4  to  6 inches;  not  over  20  Cm.  P.  G.'),  are  about  one-half  as  wide,  tapering 
toward  the  apex  and  narrowed  at  the  base  into  the  petiole,  12  to  25  Mm.  (i  to  1 inch) 
in  length.  The  leaves  are  entirely  smooth,  a slight  downiness  on  the  nerves  beneath 
excepted.  They  lose  about  85  per  cent,  and  become  thin  and  papyraceous  in  drying,  the 
upper  surface  readily  assuming  a brownish  tint,  the  lower  becoming  grayish-green  ; they 
show,  particularly  on  the  lower  surface,  a whitish  granular  appearance  under  the  magni- 
fying-glass. Circular  holes,  resulting  from  the  separation  of  suberous  warts,  are  fre- 
quently observed.  The  heavy  odor  of  the  fresh  leaves  disappears  on  drying  almost 
completely,  but  it  is  somewhat  restored  by  moisture  ; the  taste  is  slightly  saline,  bitterish, 
and  nauseous. 

Admixtures. — The  root  of  Medicago  sativa,  Linne , has  been  observed  as  an  adul- 
teration of  belladonna-root ; it  resembles  the  latter,  but  branches  of  the  crown  are  solid,' 
the  bark  is  thinner,  and  the  meditullium  is  tough,  woody  to  the  centre,  and  traversed  by 
numerous  fine  medullary  rays.  Leaves  of  digitalis,  hyoscyamus,  verbascum,  and  other 
plants,  occasionally  met  with  in  carelessly-gathered  belladonna,  are  easily  distinguished 
by  their  characters,  particularly  the  hairs.  The  leaves  of  Solanum  nigrum,  Linne 
(Black  night  shade,  E.  ; Morelle,  F.  Cod.  ; Schwarzer  Nachtschatten,  G.  ; Yerba  mora, 
Sp.),  are  smaller,  with  the  margin  repand-dentate.  In  some  parts  of  Southern  Europe  the 
oblong-obovate  leaves  of  Scopolia  atropoides,  Schultes  (s.  Hyoscyamus  Scopolia,  Linne), 
are  said  to  be  collected  with  belladonna.  They  possess  the  same  medicinal  properties. 

Constituents. — The  most  important  principle  contained  in  both  belladonna-root  and 
herb  is  atropine,  the  complex  nature  and  chemistry  of  which  have  been  described  above.  (See 
Atropina.)  Estimated  by  potassium  iodohydrargyrate,  Lefort  (1872)  found  young  roots 
to  contain  0.6,  old  roots  0.25,  and  dry  leaves,  both  cultivated  and  wild-grown,  collected  in 
the  flowering  period,  0.44  per  cent,  of  atropine.  Buddel  (1882)  obtained  from  amyla- 
ceous belladonna-root  from  .41  to  1 per  cent.,  and  from  n on-amylaceous  root  between  .143 
and  .625  per  cent.,  of  alkaloid.  The  alkaloids  are  probably  combined  with  malic  acid. 
Besides  the  usual  vegetable  constituents,  albumen,  gum,  etc.,  the  root  contains  atrosin , a 
red  coloring  principle  found  also  in  the  berries,  according  to  Htibschmann.  Young  roots 
contain  a considerable  amount  of  starch,  which  is  present  to  a more  limited  extent  in 
older  and  more  woody  roots,  and,  according  to  W.  Merz,  is  almost  entirely  wanting 
during  summer ; the  young  roots  are  said  to  contain  more  starch  in  autumn  than  in 
spring.  A comparative  examination  of  air-dry  tough  and  soft  roots,  made  by  E.  M 
Holmes  (1882),  gave — 

Moisture.  Ash,  soluble 

Woody  roots,  7.94  3.43 

Soft  roots,  10.28  2.20 

The  herb  contains  asparagin,  which  sometimes  crystallizes  in  the  extract  (Biltz,  1839). 
By  dialysis  Attfield  (1862)  obtained  crystals  of  potassium  nitrate  and  of  an  organic 
magnesium  salt.  Fliickiger  found  the  ash  of  dry  leaves  to  amount  to  14.5  per  cent., 
and  to  consist  mainly  of  calcium  and  alkaline  carbonates. 

Allied  Plants. — Atropa  mandragora,  Linn£,  s.  Mandragora  officinalis,  Miller , s.  M.  vernallis, 
Bertero,  and  M.  autumnalis,  Bertero. — Mandrake,  E. ; Mandragora,  Fr. ; Alraunwurzel,  G. — 
These  acaulescent  plants  are  indigenous  to  Southern  Europe,  where  their  roots  are  employed, 
which  have  a sharp  and  bitter  taste  and  a narcotic  action.  They  are  rarely  met  with  in  this 
country. 

Scopola  carniolica,  Jacquin,  s.  Hyoscyamus  Scopolia,  Linn 6,  is  indigenous  to  Southern  Cen- 


Ash, 

insoluble  in  water. 

4.60 

3.68 


Alcohol  extract. 

22.53 

29.87 


Water  extract. 

15.96  p.  ct. 
10.50  “ 


Mayer’s  test, 
proportion. 

6 

10 


BELLADONNA. 


329 


tral  Europe.  The  rhizome  is  horizontal  in  growth  about  2-4  Cm.  (1-1|  inches)  thick,  and  is 
almost  jointed  with  few  annulations.  The  tissues  are  similar  to  those  of  belladonna-root,  but  are 
not  as  distinctly  marked.  Alcohol,  94  per  cent,  yielded  13.15  per  cent,  extract  containing  4.1 
alkaloids — the  same  as  in  belladonna.  . 

Scopola  japonica,  Maximowicz , Japanese  belladonna , has  appeared  in  commerce,  and  was 
described  by  Holmes  (1880).  It  is  a nearly  cylindrical  oblique  rhizome  about  10  Cm.  (4  inches) 
long  and  12  Mm.  (£  inch)  thick,  on  the  upper  surface  marked  with  circular  slightly  alternate  stem- 
scars.  and  below,  on  the  node,  with  one  or  more  rows  of  root-scars  ; it  is  externally  brown,  in- 
ternally pale-brown,  horn-like  in  appearance  and  with  numerous  whitish  dots : has  a mousy  and 
narcotic  odor  and  a slight  bitter  taste.  It  contains  an  alkaloid  which  Langgaard  (1881)  found 
to  belong  to  the  atropine  group. 

Action  and  Uses. — Although  it  is  impossible  to  present  a clear  and  consistent 
rationale  of  the  mode  of  action  of  belladonna  in  producing  its  characteristic  effects,  it 
may  be  proper  to  state  the  most  plausible  views  upon  the  subject.  Like  all  other  medi- 
cines which  act  directly  through  the  nervous  system,  small  and  large  doses  of  belladonna 
produce  opposite  effects,  the  former  stimulating,  the  latter  paralyzing  it.  The  direct 
action  of  small  doses  upon  the  heart  is  to  increase  the  vigor  and  the  frequency  of  its 
contractions ; but  large  doses  render  the  pulse  still  more  frequent,  but  more  and  more 
feeble  and  thready.  Under  moderate  stimulant  doses  the  number  of  visible  capillary 
vessels  is  increased,  owing,  it  is  alleged,  to  the  greater  force  with  which  the  blood  is  pro- 
pelled ; but  the  individual  vessels  are  said  to  undergo  such  a contraction  (?)  at  the  same 
time  that  the  amount  of  blood  in  the  part  is  diminished  rather  than  increased.  The 
continued  use  of  such  doses  or  the  immediate  administration  of  larger  ones  produces 
general  dilatation  of  the  capillary  vascular  system.  Mr.  T.  W.  Jones  seeks,  as  had  been 
often  done  before  (Bartholow,  Trans.  Amer.  Med.  Assoc.,  1869,  p.  662),  to  explain  this 
effect  by  saying  that  constriction  of  the  small  arteries  is  the  cause  of  the  venous  engorge- 
ment, and  that  the  latter  occasions  the  cerebral  and  muscular  disturbance  (Amer.  Jour, 
of  Med.  Sci.,  Apr.  1881,  p.  362).  This  blood-stasis  accounts  for  the  dryness  of  the 
mouth  and  the  redness  of  the  skin,  but  it  is  not  quite  easy  to  explain  by  its  means  the 
absence  of  dryness  of  the  external  integument,  nor  the  increased  secretion  of  urine  and 
bile,  nor  the  greater  facility  of  defecation,  which  are  effects  of  medicinal  doses  of  the 
medicine.  The  alleged  hypnotic  power  of  medicinal  doses  of  belladonna  has  been  referred 
to  the  diminution  of  blood  which  it  occasions  in  the  cerebral  vessels ; but  more  probably 
the  insomnia,  hallucinations,  blindness,  etc.  which  large  doses  induce  may  be  attributed 
to  the  hyperaemia  which  they  cause  in  the  brain.  The  anodyne  and  anaesthetic  powers 
of  belladonna  appear  to  be  inherent,  and  not  the  indirect  result  of  changes  in  the  blood- 
supply.  On  the  other  hand,  the  spinal  symptoms,  as  shown  after  toxical  doses  by  the 
suspension  of  mental  control  over  movements  and  their  co-ordination,  seem  to  result 
from  impaired  sensibility  and  motility. 

Belladonna  is  probably  powerless  to  remove  any  sort  of  malignant  tumor , but  it  very 
certainly  does  retard  the  growth  and  lessen  the  pain  even  of  cancers , and  promote  the 
removal  of  some  other  tumors,  especially  the  glandular,  which  are  susceptible  of  absorp- 
tion. It  may  be  presumed  to  do  this  by  lessening  the  blood-supply,  and  thereby  restrict- 
ing the  nutrition  of  the  morbid  growth  and  its  pressure  upon  the  sensitive  nerves.  The 
virtues  of  belladonna  in  certain  forms  of  neuralgia  illustrate  the  folly  of  too  rapidly 
generalizing.  The  relations  of  opium  to  pain  of  all  descriptions  are  so  nearly  identical 
that  it  was  naturally  to  be  inferred  that  the  same  was  true  of  belladonna  ; and  yet  there 
is  only  one  form  of  uncomplicated  pain,  neuralgia,  in  which  this  medicine  is  of  much 
service  as  a direct  anodyne,  and  one  variety  of  that  form  chiefly.  It  is  a powerful 
remedy  for  neuralgia,  but  almost  exclusively  for  neuralgia  of  the  face  and  head.  It  is 
next  most  useful  in  intercostal  neuralgia,  then  in  visceral  neuralgia,  and  least  of  all  in 
sciatica.  It  should  be  given  internally  to  the  production  of  slight  constitutional  effects, 
while  local  applications  of  belladonna  in  ointment  or  liniment  are  made  upon  the  sound 
or  blistered  skin,  or  atropine  is  hypodermically  employed.  The  application  of  a bella- 
donna plaster — or,  still  better,  of  a plaster  of  belladonna  and  conium — over  the  heart  is 
of  signal  service  in  many  cases  of  the  pain  which  is  usually  felt  near  the  apex  and  is 
associated  with  palpitation,  depending  upon  functional  oftener  than  upon  organic  disease, 
and  which  is  probably  due  to  intercostal  neuralgia. 

The  physiological  action  of  belladonna,  as  revealed  by  experiments  is  far  from  point- 
ing clearly  to  one  of  the  most  useful  applications  of  the  drug  in  relaxing  sjiasm,  which 
has  long  been  well  known  as  a clinical  fact.  Sometimes,  doubtless,  it  is  difficult  to 
disengage  from  this  symptom  the  often-associated  element,  pain,  wTiich  by  turn  excites 
and  is  produced  by  spasm.  This  is  evidently  the  case  in  spasm  of  the  sphincter  ani  and 


330 


BELLADONNA . 


of  the  urethra , and  probably  in  spasm  of  the  gall-ducts , the  ureters , the  bladder,  the 
intestines , and  the  uterus.  It  is  probably  so  in  pain  depending  upon  muscular  spasm  in 
rheumatism  and  in  that  caused  by  the  irritation  of  wounded  and  inflamed  nerves.  But 
the  consideration  of  other  cases  of  spasm  without  pain  shows  that  the  direct  antispas- 
modic  power  of  the  medicine  is  very  great.  It  will  not  be  pretended  that  spasm  of  the 
os  uteri  during  labor  is  the  effect  of  the  pain  which  accompanies  it,  and  yet  belladonna 
overcomes  the  rigidity  in  question,  probably  in  the  same  manner  in  which  it  may  be 
overcome  by  venesection.  It  is  said  to  control  nocturnal  seminal  emissions  depending 
upon  an  over-excited  state  of  the  genital  organs,  and  not  on  their  mere  debility.  It  is 
alleged  that  the  medicine  relieves  jaundice  supposed  to  be  caused  by  the  presence  of 
inspissated  bile  in  the  ducts,  but  not  necessarily  occasioning  pain  ; strangulated  hernia  is 
said  to  have  been  cured  by  local  applications  of  belladonna,  as  it  also  has  by  the  internal 
use  of  the  drug  ( Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  Nov.  1882,  p.  419),  and  also  phimosis  and 
paraphimosis ; and  its  relaxing  influence  on  the  bowels  has  frequently  been  resorted  to 
successfully  in  cases  of  obstinate  constipation , and  especially  in  lead  colic.  The  purely 
antispasmodic  operation  of  the  medicine  is  still  more  clearly  seen  in  whooping  cough.  It 
should  not  be  used  until  the  inflammatory  stage  of  the  disease  has  declined,  and  then  in 
doses  not  exceeding,  at  first,  the  eighth  of  a grain  twice  a day.  The  dose  should  be 
gradually  increased  until  the  pupils  exhibit  its  effects.  In  other  nervous  coughs  it  is 
equally  available,  especially  in  such  as  depend  upon  laryngeal  irritation.  In  hay  fever 
or  summer  catarrh  it  is  a valuable  palliative,  both  when  taken  internally  and  when 
applied  in  watery  solution  to  the  nasal  cavity.  In  spasmodic  asthma  it  is  one  of  the  most 
reliable  remedies,  provided  it  be  given  in  doses  sufficient  to  produce  its  characteristic 
operation.  For  the  purpose  the  hypodermic  injection  of  atropine  is  to  be  preferred,  and 
when  the  paroxysm  occurs  regularly  its  approach  may  be  prevented  by  this  remedy. 
The  inhalation  of  an  atomized  preparation  of  belladonna  may  also  be  used.  It  is  not 
without  utility  in  spasmodic  and  membranous  croup,  and  even  in  laryngismus  stridulus, 
by  moderating  the  laryngeal  spasm.  The  nervous  vomiting  of  pregnancy  may  be  palliated 
by  the  internal  use  of  the  drug  or  by  rubbing  a solution  of  the  extract  upon  the  epigas- 
trium. In  tetanus  the  medicine  has  occasionally  produced  a cure,  and  also  in  cases  of 
poisoning  by  strychnine , and  in  others  of  epilepsy,  especially  in  children.  It  forms  a 
valuable  addition  to  the  bromides  in  cases  of  epilepsy  that  resist  the  use  of  the  latter 
alone. 

The  supposed  power  of  belladonna  to  limit  the  amount  of  blood  in  the  spinal  cord  has 
been  invoked  with  apparent  advantage  in  the  treatment  of  epidemic  meningitis.  As  it 
was  given  along  with  ergot,  to  which  the  same  operation  is  attributed,  the  share  of  the 
former  medicine  in  the  cure  is  difficult  to  determine.  These  two  medicines  were  orig- 
inally associated  in  the  treatment  of  paraplegia  due  to  myelitis,  ergot  being  at  first 
administered  alone,  after  which  belladonna  was  given  internally  and  applied  in  a plaster 
to  the  spine.  Subsequently,  iodide  of  potassium  was  prescribed  in  addition  to  the  other 
remedies.  It  is  a question,  What  was  the  value  of  the  elements  time  and  rest  in  this 
method  of  treatment? 

One  of  its  most  useful  applications  is  in  the  treatment  of  non-paralytic  incontinence 
of  urine,  an  affection  presenting  neither  evident  spasm  nor  pain,  but  in  which  probably 
the  former  state  exists.  By  blunting  the  organic  sensibility  of  the  neck  of  the  bladder 
it  allays  the  spasm  of  this  part,  and  prevents  a call  of  nature  until  a due  amount  of 
urine  has  accumulated.  It  is  best  administered  in  suppositories  or  associated  with 
bromide  of  potassium.  In  an  ointment  it  allays  the  pain  of  haemorrhoids.  The  power 
of  belladonna  to  dilate  the  pupil  is  most  valuable  in  permitting  a thorough  exploration 
of  the  interior  of  the  eye  by  means  of  the  ophthalmoscope  or  otherwise,  in  obviating  the 
unnatural  adhesions  which  are  so  apt  to  occur  in  iritis,  and  also  in  preventing  or  in 
remedying  prolapse  of  the  iris.  It  was  first  applied  to  facilitate  the  operation  for  cataract 
in  1795.  It  is  probable  that  the  medicine  lessens  the  congestive  process  in  the  eye 'by 
diminishing  the  calibre  of  the  blood-vessels  and  by  lowering  the  sensibility  of  the  retina 
to  light.  Both  locally  and  internally  it  is  one  of  the  most  efficient  remedies  for  photo- 
phobia. Where  the  eye  is  concerned  the  action  of  belladonna  may  be  obtained  by 
smearing  its  extract,  softened  with  water,  around  the  orbit,  but  the  use  of  atropine  is 
both  more  cleanly  and  more  efficient.  The  dryness  of  the  skin  produced  by  belladonna 
has  been  proved  clinically  to  render  it  an  efficient  remedy  for  all  forms  of  passive  perspira- 
tion. The  hectic  sweats  of  phthisis,  of  profuse  suppuration,  of  articular  rheumatism, 
are  all  more  or  less  under  its  control,  and  local  and  unilateral  sweats  have  been  arrested 
by  its  topical  application.  It  is  curious  that  in  some  cases  the  suspension  of  the  cutane- 


BELLADONNA. 


331 


ous  exhalation  was  followed  by  a compensatory  diarrhoea.  The  requisite  dose  for  check- 
ing perspiration  is  one  that  will  produce  a commencing  dilatation  of  the  pupil  and  a very 
slight  dryness  of  the  throat.  A similar  control  over  excessive  salivation  has  been  exerted 
by  this  medicine  when  the  symptom  in  question  followed  hemiplegia.  The  dryness  of 
the  nostrils  and  throat  produced  by  it  has  been  employed  to  prevent  the  coryza  which 
iodide  of  potassium  frequently  causes.  The  control  of  belladonna  over  the  mammary 
secretion  has  long  been  known,  and  liniments  containing  it  have  been  used  for  drying  up 
the  milk  or  for  diminishing  it  when  excessive.  It  should  be  applied  before  inflammation 
has  set  in.  It  does  not  appear  to  be  secreted  with  the  milk.  It  has  been  thought  to 
increase  the  power  of  opium  in  the  treatment  of  diabetes;  and  Mingot  claims  for  it  a 
directly  stimulant  action  upon  the  female  organs  of  generation.  The  similar  action  of 
belladonna  upon  the  heart  has  been  taken  advantage  of  in  typhoid  fever.  Under  its  use 
the  pulse  and  temperature  rather  decline.  Dr.  Harley  says : “ My  own  impression  is, 
that  the  stimulant  action  of  belladonna  on  the  heart  is  converted  in  the  pyrexial  state 
into  a tonic,  and,  if  not  pushed  too  far,  even  a sedative,  influence  on  the  heart  and  blood- 
vessels generally ; in  other  words,  that  it  is  a tonic  and  sedative  to  the  sympathetic 
system  generally.  By  this  action  the  capillary  circulation  is  accelerated,  the  contraction 
of  the  vessels  promoted,  and  the  arterial  tension  which  attends  congestion  of  the  paren- 
chymatous organs  is  relieved,  and  a load  at  once  removed  from  the  heart.”  There  is 
reason  to  think  that  in  some  cases  of  cardiac  dropsy , with  feeble  action  of  the  heart 
through  valvular  obstruction  or  muscular  degeneration,  belladonna  may  be  serviceable. 
In  several  instances  also  it  appears  to  have  rescued  patients  from  fatal  collapse  (in  endo- 
carditis, diarrhoea,  bronchitis)  by  sustaining  the  heart’s  action  (Weber).  The  protective 
power  of  belladonna  against  the  contagion  of  scarlatina  has  been  both  firmly  maintained 
and  vehemently  denied.  A careful  examination  of  the  evidence  bearing  upon  the  ques- 
tion has  led  us  to  the  conclusion  that  so  long  as  persons  are  under  the  influence  of  bella- 
donna, as  indicated  by  the  state  of  the  pupils,  the  throat,  and  the  skin,  the  liability  to 
contract  scarlatina  is  very  much  diminished.  Nor  does  there  seem  to  be  wanting  a good 
reason  why  it  should  be  so,  since  the  mucous  membrane  of  the  throat  and  larynx  is 
maintained  by  the  drug  in  a condition  unfavorable  to  absorbing  the  scarlatinous  or  any 
other  morbid  agent  that  enters  the  body  through  these  channels. 

The  antagonism  of  belladonna  and  opium  has  long  been  known  and  practically  tested 
in  cases  of  poisoning  by  the  one  or  the  other  of  those  agents.  Doubtless  their  antidotal 
action  was  suggested  by  their  opposite  actions  upon  the  pupil.  More  recent  observa- 
tions have  shown  other  points  of  opposition,  thus : opium  tends  to  produce  coma,  bella- 
donna cerebral  excitement;  opium  diminishes  the  internal  and  increases  the  cutaneous 
secretions,  while  belladonna  increases  the  secretions  of  the  gastro-intestinal  tract  and 
diminishes  those  of  the  skin  ; opium  lessens  the  secretion  of  urine,  but  belladonna  aug- 
ments it ; and,  above  all,  opium  exerts  a depressing  action  upon  the  lungs  and  heart, 
but  the  functions  of  these  organs  are  stimulated  by  belladonna.  These  opposite  actions 
of  the  two  medicines  may  surely  be  described  by  the  single  word  antagonism,  and  nei- 
ther experiments  upon  animals,  however  numerous,  nor  any  amount  of  reasoning,  how- 
ever ingenious,  can  diminish  their  significance  or  importance.  Harley  has  shown,  experi- 
mentally, that  by  removing  the  "restraint  due  to  partial  collapse  of  the  lungs,  and  by 
direct  stimulation  also,  belladonna  relieves  the  distended  heart ; and  clinical  observation 
demonstrates  that  this  special  stimulant  operation  is  the  very  one  that  is  needed  to  pre- 
serve life  in  opium-poisoning.  Indeed,  electricity,  the  cold  dash,  coffee,  and  other  agents 
employed  with  success  to  combat  the  effects  of  opium  can  have  no  other  mode  of  action. 
Every  one  who  has  witnessed  the  use  of  electricity  or  of  flagellation  in  the  successful 
treatment  of  opium-narcotism  must  have  been  convinced  that  these  agents  stimulate  the 
lungs  and  heart,  and  so  preserve  life  until  the  excess  of  the  poison  is  eliminated  or 
destroyed.  It  is  evident  that  belladonna  and  its  preparations  can  act  in  no  other  man- 
ner ; and  indeed  clinical  observation  proves  it,  for  unless  the  condition  of  the  patient  is 
such  as  to  allow  him  to  be  impressed  by  the  physiological  antidote,  it  can  do  no  good ; 
and,  on  the  other  hand,  unless  the  dose  of  the  antidote  is  such  as  to  attain,  without 
exceeding,  the  due  degree  of  stimulation,  it  may  do  serious  harm.  It  results  from  expe- 
rience that  repeated  and  small  doses  of  belladonna  or  of  its  alkaloid,  Gm.  0.0010-0.0016 
(gr.  to)’  (lhe  latter  hypodermically  is  preferable)  should  be  administered  at  inter- 
vals until  the  pulse  and  respiration  acquire  more  force  and  the  pupil  begins  to  be  dilated, 
but  care  must  be  taken  not  to  substitute  the  narcotic  action  of  belladonna  for  that  of 
opium.  By  observing  these  rules  a great  many  cases  of  opium-poisoning  have  termi- 
nated favorably  which  without  treatment  would  probably  have  ended  fatally.  In  poison- 


332 


BENZENUM. 


ing  by  belladonna  the  appropriate  antidote  is  morphine,  and  the  test  of  its  efficiency  is 
the  degree  of  contraction  it  occasions  in  the  dilated  pupils.  Inhalations  of  oxygen  have 
also  been  employed. 

Although  poisoning  by  physostigma  (Calabar  bean)  is  uncommon,  it  should  be  known 
that  belladonna  (in  the  form  of  atropine)  is  the  appropriate  antidote  for  its  effects.  Its 
administration  should  be  conducted  upon  the  principles  just  set  forth,  and  the  guide  for 
its  dose  and  the  frequency  of  its  administration  are  to  be  found  also  in  the  dilating  effect 
produced  by  it  upon  the  contracted  pupil. 

Gm.  0.06  (gr.  j)  is  the  the  primary  dose  of  the  powder  of  belladonna,  root  or  leaf.  It 
should  be  gradually  increased  until  the  pupil  begins  to  be  affected.  An  infusion  may  be 
made  with  Gm.  1.30  (gr.  xx)  of  the  leaves  in  half  a pint  of  water,  of  which  the  dose  is 
half  a fluidounce  every  four  or  five  hours.  The  tincture,  fluid  extract,  and  alcoholic 
extract,  and  atropine,  are  more  frequently  prescribed  than  belladonna  in  substance.  For 
external  use  the  ointment  and  plaster,  and  various  liniments  containing  these  prepara- 
tions, are  employed. 

Atropa  mandragora,  or  mandrake,  which  has  such  a resemblance  to  A.  belladonna 
as  to  call  for  some  notice  here,  is  chiefly  interesting  from  its  anaesthetic  virtues.  It  was 
fully  described  in  the  first  century  of  our  era  by  Dioscorides,  and  after  him  by  Pliny, 
and  their  descriptions  were  handed  down  by  the  Arabians  to  modern  times.  Of  these 
writers,  the  first  particularly  mentions  that  wine  of  mandrake  was  administered  to  per- 
sons about  to  suffer  amputation  or  the  actual  cautery.  He  speaks  also  of  its  juice  being 
used  in  a suppository  to  induce  sleep,  and  states  that  the  fruit  of  the  plant,  and  even 
the  emanations  from  it,  have  the  same  effect.  Indeed,  he  describes  two  species,  but  attrib- 
utes the  same  qualities  to  them  both.  In  1848,  Sylvester  drew  attention  to  the  ancient 
uses  of  this  plant  as  an  anaesthetic.  For  many  centuries,  said  Dr.  Richardson  (1873 
and  1888),  Atropa  mandragora  was  employed  as  a general  anaesthetic,  and  poets  and 
historians,  not  less  than  physicians,  descanted  on  its  singular  efficacy.  According  to 
Crouzel,  Mandragora  officinalis  furnishes  an  alkaloid  which  dilates  the  pupil. 

Scopoline,  when  first  announced  in  1885,  was  said  to  exceed  atropine  in  the  degree  and 
persistency  of  its  mydriatic  action,  and  at  the  same  time  not  to  irritate  the  conjunctiva. 
This  statement  was  confirmed,  among  others,  by  Dunn,  who  also  found  it  a sedative  of 
the  inflammation  and  pain  in  rheumatic  iritis  ( Med . Record , xxxi.  132),  and  by 
Duckworth,  according  to  whom  it  does  not,  like  belladonna,  cause  dryness  of  the  throat, 
nor,  when  taken  internally,  dilatation  of  the  pupil  ( Therap . Gaz.,  xiv.  101).  Meanwhile, 
Schmidt  and  others  have  proved  that  the  active  principle  of  the  plant  is  compound,  and 
contains  atropine,  hyoscine,  and  hyoscy amine  (ibid,  xi.  767  ; xii.  200). 

Ephedrin,  originally  (1887)  used  in  Japan  as  a mydriatic,  appears  to  be  uncertain  in 
its  action,  and  much  slower  than  atropine.  A 6-7  per  cent,  solution  has  been  em- 
ployed. 


BENZENUM. — Benzene  (sometimes  called  Benzol). 

Benzole , Benzene , Fr. ; Benzol,  Benzen , G. 

Formula  C6H6.  Molecular  weight,  77.82. 

The  term  benzol  is  still  often  used  for  this  liquid,  and  has  been  retained  by  the  U.  S., 
Br.,  and  Germ.  Pharmacopoeias  in  order  to  distinguish  it  readily  from  benzin  or  petro- 
leum ether ; at  present,  however,  the  ending  “ ol is  confined  to  the  names  of  alcohols 
and  phenols,  while  the  more  appropriate  ending  “ ene  ” is  used  for  hydrocarbons  proper. 

Preparation. — Benzene  is  obtained  by  the  dry  distillation  of  benzoic  acid  mixed 
with  excess  of  lime,  and  by  agitating  the  oily  distillate  with  potassa  solution  and  recti- 
fying. It  is  largely  obtained  from  coal-tar , one  of  the  secondary  products  of  the  coal- 
gas  manufacture:  on  subjecting  it  to  distillation  water  and  ammonia  pass  over,  accom- 
panied by  a brown  oily  liquid  (8  or  10  per  cent,  of  the  tar),  known  as  light  oil , because 
it  floats  on  water.  Subsequently  dead  oil  is  obtained  as  an  oily  liquid  heavier  than  water, 
and  containing  aniline,  quinoline,  naphthaline,  carbolic  acid,  etc.;  the  residue  in  the  retort 
constitutes  pitch,  and  is  used  in  place  of  asphaltum.  The  light  oil  contains  mainly  benzene, 
toluene  (C7H8),  xylene  (C8H10),  and  isocumene  (C9H12),  and  after  rectification  to  free  it  from 
some  dead  oil  is  known  in  commerce  as  coal-naplitha , which  owes  most  of  its  disagreeable 
odor  to  volatile  bases  removable  by  agitation  with  dilute  sulphuric  acid.  The  hydro- 
carbons are  separated  from  one  another  by  repeated  fractional  distillation  until  liquids  of 
a nearly  constant  boiling-point  are  obtained.  The  fraction  boiling  near  80°  C.  (176°  F.) 
consists  chiefly  of  benzene,  that  with  the  boiling-point  110°  C.  (230°  F.)  of  toluene,  that 


BENZINUM. 


333 


distilling  near  140°  C.  (284°  F.)  of  xylene,  and  the  portion  coming  over  near  170°  C. 
(337°  F.)  of  isocumene.  The  benzene  may  be  further  purified  by  exposing  it  to  a low  tem- 
perature and  expressing  the  portion  remaining  liquid. 

Properties. — At  the  ordinary  temperature  benzene  is  a thin,  colorless,  very  inflam- 
mable liquid,  of  considerable  refractive  power  and  strong  odor  of  coal-gas ; but  when 
obtained  from  benzoic  acid  it  has  a peculiar  aromatic  odor  and  a sweetish  aromatic  taste. 
It  has  the  density  .899  at  0°  C.  (32°  F.)  and  .878  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  congeals  at  the 
freezing-point  of  water,  melts  again  at  5.5°  C.  (42°  F.),  and  boils  at  80.5  (177°  F.). 
It  is  nearly  insoluble  in  water,  but  readily  soluble  in  4 parts  of  alcohol,  in  methylic 
alcohol,  ether,  and  acetone ; it  dissolves  some  phosphorus,  sulphur,  and  iodine,  and 
considerable  quantities  of  fats,  volatile  oils,  caoutchouc,  gutta-percha,  and  some  resins. 
W.  Smith  and  G.  W.  Davis  (1882)  obtained  a colorless  crystalline  compound  with  anti- 
mony trichloride,  having  the  composition  3SbCl3.2C6H6,  and  on  exposure  becoming  opaque 
and  liquefying.  The  name  benzin  was  formerly  given,  and  is  still  used  to  some  extent  for 
benzene,  but  is  best  discarded  as  a synonym  for  the  latter. 

Composition. — Benzene  is  the  hydride  of  phenyl.  HC6H5 ; the  hydroxide  of  the 
same  radical,  CGH5OH,  is  carbolic  acid. 

Tests. — To  distinguish  it  readily  from  petroleum  benzin , Pusch  (1875)  recommends 
iodine,  which  dissolves  in  the  latter  with  a raspberry-red  and  in  benzene  with  a violet-red 
color ; the  former  color  is  so  intense  that  a small  admixture  of  benzin  can  be  recognized 
by  neutralizing  the  violet  tint.  Commercial  benzene  obtained  from  coal-tar  always  con- 
tains variable  quantities  of  the  hydrocarbons  mentioned  above ; it  should  boil  and  evap- 
orate completely  between  80°  and  85°  C.  (176°  and  185°  F.).  Agitated  with  sulphuric 
acid,  it  should  not  acquire  a dark  color. 

Action  and  Uses. — Benzene  is  useful  as  a solvent  for  some  alkaloids  and  the  sub- 
stances mentioned  above,  but  is  chiefly  employed  in  the  manufacture  of  Nitrobenzene 
and  Aniline  (which  see).  It  has  been  recommended  as  a remedy  for  whooping  cough 
{Med.  Record , xxxiii.  15).  The  application  of  benzol,  followed  by  that  of  calomel,  is 
said  to  have  cured  epithelioma  ( A7 . Y.  Med.  Jour.,  Sept.  26,  1885). 

BENZINUM,  U.  S. — Benzin. 

Benzinum  petrolei,  P.  G.;  YEther  petrolei. — Petroleum  benzin , Petroleum  ether , E.  ; Ben- 
zine, Esprit  ( Naphte , Ether ) de  petro/e , Petr  oleine,  Fr. ; Petroleumbenzin , Petroldther , Ben- 
zin, G. 

Preparation, — The  lower  hydrocarbons  present  in  American  petroleum  are  separated 
from  the  heavier  compounds  by  fractional  distillation  and  from  all  the  lightest  hydrocar- 
bons by  fractional  condensation.  (See  Petroleum.) 

Purification. — The  disagreeable  odor  of  crude  benzin  is  to  a considerable  extent 
removed  by  agitation  with  sulphuric  acid.  Fairthorne  (1880)  recommended  quicklime 
for  the  purpose,  which  removes  the  peculiar  sulphurous  odor.  Grazer  (1883)  obtained 
the  best  results  with  a mixture  of  solution  of  potassium  bichromate  and  sulphuric  acid. 
The  adhering  acid  is  removed  by  washing. 

Properties. — Benzin  is  a transparent,  colorless,  diffusive  liquid  of  a strong,  character- 
istic odor  slightly  resembling  that  of  petroleum,  but  much  less  disagreeable ; neutral  in 
reaction  ; insoluble  in  water,  soluble  in  about  6 parts  of  alcohol,  and  readily  so  in  ether, 
chloroform,  benzene,  and  fixed  and  volatile  oils.  It  is  highly  inflammable,  and  its  vapor, 
when  mixed  with  air  and  ignited,  explodes  violently.  It  has  a sp.  gr.  from  0.670  to  0.675 
(0.640  to  0.670,  P.  £.),  and  boils  at  50°  to  60°  C.  (122°  to  140°  F.)  (55°  to  75°  C.= 
131°  to  167°  F.,  P.  G.').  Benzin  should  be  carefully  kept  in  well-stopped  bottles  or 
cans,  in  a cool  place,  remote  from  lights  or  fire. — U.  S. 

Constituents. — Pentane , C5H12,  boils  at  38°  C.  (100.4°  F.),  hexane,  CJI14,  at  70°  C. 
(158°  F.).  The  benzin  of  the  U.  S.  P.  should  therefore  consist  chiefly  of  the  former, 
while  that  of  P.  G.  consists  mainly  of  hexane,  with  variable  quantities  of  pentane  and 
heptane , C7H16,  the  latter  boiling  at  98°  C.  (208.4°  F.) ; this  also  agrees  with  the  density, 
which  is  for  pentane  .60,  for  hexane  .63,  and  for  heptane  .71. 

Tests. — Benzin  when  evaporated  upon  the  hand  should  leave  no  odor,  and  when 
evaporated  in  a warm  dish  should  leave  no  residue  (absence  of  heavy  hydrocarbons). 
When  boiled  a few  minutes  with  one-fourth  its  volume  of  spirit  of  ammonia  and  a few 
drops  of  test-solution  of  silver  nitrate,  the  ammoniacal  liquid  should  not  turn  brown 
(absence  of  pyrogenous  products  and  sulphur  compounds),  and  it  should  require  6 parts 
of  official  alcohol  to  dissolve  it  (difference  from  benzene).  If  5 drops  are  added  to  a 


334 


BENZOINTJM. 


mixture  of  40  drops  of  sulphuric  acid  with  10  drops  of  nitric  acid  in  a test-tube,  the 
liquid  warmed  and  set  aside  for  half  an  hour,  and  then  diluted  in  a shallow  dish  with 
twice  its  volume  of  water,  it  should  not  have  the  bitter-almond-like  odor  of  nitro-benzene 
(difference  from  and  absence  of  benzene. — U S.  On  agitating  2 parts  of  benzin  with  a 
cold  mixture  of  1 part  of  sulphuric  acid  and  4 parts  of  fuming  nitric  acid,  the  liquid 
should  not  become  colored,  and  should  not  acquire  a bitter-almond-like  - odor. — P.  G. 
Benzene  being  much  higher  in  price  than  benzin,  an  adulteration  of  the  latter  with  the 
former  is  not  likely  to  occur  ; but  these  tests  are  useful  for  distinguishing  the  two  liquids. 
(See  also  Benzenum.) 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Benzin  is  directed  in  the  preparation  of  Charta  sinapis, 
U.  S.,  for  depriving  powdered  mustard-seed  of  fat.  It  may  be  used  for  the  extraction  of 
fixed  oils,  and  has  been  recommended  by  Dr.  Wolff  for  the  preparation  of  volatile  oils. 
It  is  employed  in  the  arts  as  a solvent  for  fats,  for  caoutchouc,  and  for  certain  resins. 

Action  and  Uses. — Husemann  states  that  the  vapors  of  benzin  are  destructive  to 
insects,  but  that  pigs  tolerate  very  large  doses  of  it ; e.  g.  3 or  4 drachms.  According  to 
Gabalda,  the  poisonous  action  of  benzin  differs  from  that  of  nitrobenzin  only  in  degree. 
It  produces  confusion  of  the  senses,  vertigo,  unconsciousness,  convulsions,  coma,  or  some- 
times only  a sort  of  intoxication,  like  that  of  alcohol.  As  much  as  50  drops  has  been 
given  to  trichina  patients  without  injury,  but  the  continued  use  of  the  oil  produces  some 
of  the  effects  just  mentioned,  and  without  mitigating  the  disease.  It  has  been  employed 
locally  in  the  treatment  of  scabies , but,  although  it  destroys  the  itch-insects,  it  does  not 
affect  their  eggs.  It  has  also  been  used  in  herpes  tonsurans,  favus,  sycosis , etc.,  and  as  an 
anaesthetic  for  the  relief  of  pain  in  rheumatism  and  neuralgia.  Like  creosote  and  carbolic 
acid,  it  restrains  fermentation  in  certain  forms  of  dyspepsia.  As  a substitute  for  the 
emanations  from  gas-works  it  has  been  used  by  inhalation  in  whooping  cough.  The 
ordinary  dose  is  Gm.  0.60-1.00  (npx-xv).  It  may  be  prescribed  on  sugar,  in  emulsion, 
or,  preferably,  in  capsules. 

BENZOINUM,  U.  S.  Br.— Benzoin. 

Benzoe , P.  G. ; Resina,  benzoe , Asa  dulcis. — Gum  benjamin , E. ; B enjoin,  Fr. ; Benzoe,  G. ; 
Benjui,  Sp. ; Benzoino , F.  It. 

A balsamic  resin  obtained  from  Styrax  Benzoin,  Dryander.  Philos.  Trans.,  vol.  lxxvii. 
plate  12;  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  169. 

Nat.  Ord. — Styraceae. 

Origin. — The  tree  yielding  benzoin  is  of  medium  height,  has  a hard  dense  wood, 
large  branches  forming  a beautiful  crown,  a handsome  dark-green  underneath  white 
hairy  foliage,  and  reddish  or  white  flowers  in  axillary  racemes.  It  is  indigenous  to 
Borneo,  Java,  and  Sumatra,  and  probably  also  to  Cochin  China  and  Siam,  though  it  is 
not  unlikely  that  the  benzoin  coming  from  the  latter  country  may  be  produced  by  a 
different  species. 

Collection. — The  tree  is  cultivated  in  Sumatra  to  a considerable  extent,  but  benzoin 
is  also  obtained  from  wild  trees.  When  about  six  or  seven  years  old  the  trunks  are  about 
as  many  inches  in  diameter,  and  incisions  are  then  made  through  the  bark,  when  a white 
liquid  resin  commences  to  exude  slowly.  According  to  Tschirch  (1890),  the  tree  con- 
tains no  resin-receptacle,  and  while  in  a healthy  condition  does  not  yield  any  resinous 
exudation,  which  he  regards  as  a pathological  result  of  injury.  When  sufficiently  hard 
this  is  scraped  from  the  bark.  During  the  first  three  years  the  resin  contains  a large 
number  of  white  tears,  and  is  then  called  by  the  Malays  head  benzoin.  During  the  next 
seven  or  eight  years  the  white  tears  decrease  in  number,  and  the  product  is  termed  belly 
benzoin.  At  the  expiration  of  this  time  the  exudation  is  considerably  diminished,  the 
tree  cut  down  and  an  inferior  quality,  called  foot  benzoin,  scraped  from  the  wood. 

Siam  benzoin  is  likewise  collected  from  incisions,  but  the  tree  yielding  it  is  not 
known. 

Commerce. — At  the  ports  of  Sumatra  benzoin  is  received  in  the  form  of  cakes 
wrapped  in  matting,  and  after  having  been  softened  by  heat  is  packed  in  chests  and  sent 
to  Penang  and  Singapore,  whence  it  finds  its  way  into  general  commerce.  In  Siam  ben- 
zoin is  carried  on  bullocks’  backs  to  the  Menam  River,  and  then  shipped  to  Bangkok, 
whence  it  is  exported  to  other  countries.  Tn  the  year  1866—67,  5827  pounds  of  ben- 
zoin were  imported  into  the  United  States.  In  the  recent  statistical  reports  benzoin  is 
enumerated  with  other  resins  and  gum-resins. 

Description. — Sumatra  benzoin  is  met  with  in  commerce  usually  in  the  form  of 


BENZOIN  UM. 


335 


large  rectangular  blocks,  which  consist  of  milk-white  opaque  tears,  varying  in  size  and 
frequently  quite  small,  always  agglutinated  by  a brown-gray  resin.  In  the  interior  it  is 
often  porous,  presents  a mere  mottled  or  variegated  but  no  distinct,  amygdaloid  appear- 
ance. It  has  an  agreeable  odor,  distinct  from  and  weaker  than  that  of  Siam  benzoin. 
The  tears  melt  at  85°  C.  (185°  F.),  the  grayish-brown  portion  at  95°  C.  (203°  F.) 
(Pharmacographia).  It  is  always  mixed  with  fragments  of  bark,  of  which  the  inferior 
kinds  almost  exclusively  consist. 

Penang  benzoin  is  usually  identical  with  Sumatra  benzoin,  but  occasionally  it  differs 
from  it  in  color,  and  more  so  in  odor,  which  then  suggests  that  of  storax. 

Siam  benzoin  has  mostly  a similar  appearance,  the  inferior  varieties  consisting  mainly 
of  a grayish-red  resin,  which  upon  a fresh  fracture  is  brown-red,  glossy,  translucent,  and 
mottled  with  lighter  spots,  but  containing  few  or  no  tears.  The  better  quality  is  dis- 
tinctly amygdaloid  in  appearance,  on  account  of  the  milk-white  tears,  which  are  up  to  12 
Mm.  (£  inch)  and  more  in  diameter.  The  resin  is  often  porous,  and  crystals  of  benzoic 
acid  are  observed  in  the  cavities.  In  the  finest  amygdaloid  variety  the  tears  largely 
preponderate  over  the  red-brown  translucent  resin,  which  is  nearly  entirely  absent  in  the 
benzoin  in  tears.  This  variety  is  met  with  in  separate  or  loosely-agglutinated,  roundish, 
or  flattened  pieces,  25  to  50  Mm.  (1  or  sometimes  2 inches)  in  diameter,  which  are  of  a 
reddish-yellow  color  externally,  internally  white  or  striped,  and  melt  at  75°  C.  (167°  F.). 
The  odor  of  Siam  benzoin  is  pleasantly  balsamic,  somewhat  like  that  of  vanilla. 

Impurities , consisting  of  fragments  of  wood,  bark,  etc.,  are  present  to  a larger  or 
smaller  extent  in  all  varieties  of  cake  benzoin,  and  remain  behind  on  treatment  with 
alcohol.  With  the  exception  of  these  impurities,  benzoin  should  dissolve  in  five  times 
its  weight  of  alcohol ; this  solution  gives  with  water  a milky  liquid  having  an  acid 
reaction. — P.  G.  The  tincture  of  Siam  benzoin  has  a distinct  red  color  ; that  of  the 
other  varieties  is  more  of  a brown  or  yellowish-brown  color ; rendered  milky  by  the  addi- 
tion of  water,  the  peculiar  fragrance  of  the  different  varieties  is  best  perceived. 

False  benzoin , from  Terminalia  benzoin,  Linne  Jilius , s.  T.  angustifolia,  Jacquin , s. 
Catappa  Benzoine,  Gaertner , consists  of  white  and  brown  fragments,  which  easily  break 
in  the  hand.  Dried,  it  yields  a white  powder  which  is  used  as  a cosmetic.  It  is  obtained 
from  the  tree  by  making  incisions. 

Constituents. — Benzoin  contains  several  resins,  a trace  of  volatile  oil,  and  from  12 
to  20  per  cent,  of  benzoic  acid.  In  addition  to  these,  Siam  benzoin  contains  vanillin, 
which  was  obtained  by  Rump  (1878)  from  the  mother-liquor  of  benzoic  acid  prepared  by 
Scheele’s  process  (see  page  32)  by  agitating  it  with  ether  and  evaporating.  Kolbe  and 
Lautemann  (1860)  found  in  Siam  and  Penang  benzoin  also  cinnamic  acid,  and  the  same 
acid  was  observed  in  Sumatra  benzoin  by  Aschoff  (1861).  The  quantity  of  cinnamic 
acid  varies  considerably,  and  it  is  often  altogether  absent.  The  cause  of  its  presence  has 
not  been  ascertained.  The  white  tears  often  contain  less  benzoic  acid  than  the  resin. 
This  portion  consists  of  about  four  resins,  which  dissolve  partly  in  ether,  but  are  alike,  or 
nearly  so,  in  their  composition  and  behavior  to  alcohol,  in  which  they  are  soluble,  and  to 
caustic  potassa ; by  treating  them  with  fused  potassa,  paraoxybenzoic  acid,  C7H603,  and 
protocatechuic  acid  are  obtained,  besides  products  of  secondary  decomposition. 

Tests. — When  benzoin  is  boiled  with  milk  of  lime  the  hot  filtrate  should  not  give  off 
the  odor  of  oil  of  bitter  almond  on  the  addition  of  test-solution  of  potassium  perman- 
ganate (absence  of  cinnamic  acid).  For  determining  the  presence  of  cinnamic  acid 
the  tincture  of  benzoin  may  be  precipitated  by  hot  water,  filtered  from  the  resin,  and 
the  filtrate  treated  with  a solution  of  potassium  permanganate  or  chlorinated  lime ; 
or  the  benzoin  may  be  triturated  with  peroxide  of  lead  and  the  mixture  boiled  with 
water. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  internal  action  of  benzoin  has  been  considered  in  connec- 
tion with  benzoic  acid,  upon  whose  presence  the  virtues  of  the  balsam  chiefly  depend  ; 
but  the  resin  and  volatile  oil  which  it  also  contains  communicate  to  it  other  qualities 
which  assimilate  it  with  the  resins  in  general.  Like  these,  it  is  a general  and  local 
stimulant,  tending  to  elimination  by  the  mucous  membranes.  (Vid.  Tinct.  Benzoini  and 
Tinct.  Benzoini  c.)  This  fact  accounts  for  its  established  reputation  in  the  treatment 
of  chronic  bronchitis , chronic  diarrhoea , and  dysentery.  In  the  first  of  these  affections 
the  compound  tincture  of  benzoin,  or  Turlington’s  balsam,  has  long  been  famous,  and  no 
medicine  of  its  class  excels  it.  Locally,  the  tincture  is  a most  excellent  stimulant  and 
protective  for  wounds , and,  like  various  other  stimulants  and  protectives,  may  be  used  to 
arrest  coryza  in  its  forming  stage.  The  dose  is  stated  to  be  from  Gm.  0.60-2.60  (gr.  x- 
xl),  but  benzoin  is  never  administered  in  substance. 


336 


BERBERIS. 


BERBERIS. — Barberry. 

Berberide , Epine-vinette,  Vinettier , Fr.;  Berberitzen , Saurach , Sauer  dorn,  G.;  Berberos , Sp. 

The  bark  of  the  root  of  Berberis  vulgaris,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 16. 

JVa£.  Grd. — Berberidaceae. 

Origin. — The  barberry  is  a shrub  1.8  to  2.4  M.  (6  to  8 feet)  high,  with  three-parted 
spines,  fascicles  of  obovate-spatulate  and  bristly  serrulate  leaves,  yellow  flowers  in  pen- 
dulous racemes,  and  oblong  one-eelled  scarlet  berries  of  an  acidulous  bitter  taste.  It  is 
indigenous  to  Western  Asia  and  the  greater  part  of  Europe,  and  has  been  naturalized  in 
thickets  and  waste  grounds  in  New  England  and  other  parts  of  North  America.  The 
bark  of  the  root  is  the  part  mostly  used  in  North  America,  while  in  Europe  the  entire 
root  is  usually  employed,  also  the  fruit  and  the  juice  expressed  from  it. 

Description. — The  thick  and  branching  root  has  a tough  wood  of  a pale  lemon-yellow 
color,  distinctly  porous  from  the  rather  large  vessels,  which  are  arranged  in  concentric 
circles  and  with  plainly-visible  medullary  rays.  The  rather  thin  bark  is  found  in  small 
irregular  pieces,  is  externally  of  a yellowish-gray,  and  upon  the  nearly  smooth  inner 
surface  of  an  orange-yellow  color ; the  corky  layer  is  soft,  and  the  deep-yellow  bast-fibres 
are  in  tangential  rows  imbedded  in  a yellow  parenchyma  which  is  striate  by  medullary 
rays.  The  nearly  inodorous  bark  has  a strongly  bitter  taste,  and  imparts  to  the  saliva  a 
yellow  color ; its  infusion  does  not  yield  a black  precipitate  with  ferric  salts. 

Constituents. — According  to  the  analysis  of  Poles  (1836),  barberry-bark  contains 
berberine,  oxyacanthine,  some  starch,  and  tannin,  producing  dark  green  precipitates  with 
iron  salts,  besides  the  usual  constituents  of  vegetables.  Besides  these  principles,  V.  Hesse 
(1886)  isolated  a third  alkaloid,  berbamine. 

Berberine , or  berberia,  was  first  discovered  by  Chevallier  and  Pelletan  (1826)  in  the 
bark  of  Xanthoxylum  clavae  Herculis,  Linne,  and  named  xanthopicrit ; its  identity  with 
berberine  was  proved  by  Perrins  (1862).  A.  Buchner  obtained  it  (1835)  crystallized 
from  barberry -root,  believed  it  to  possess  acid  properties,  and  named  it  berberin.  It  had 
been  previously  separated  in  an  impure  condition  by  Brandes  (1825)  and  by  Buchner 
(1830).  G.  Kemp  (1841)  noticed  that  it  forms  crystallizable  compounds  with  various 
mineral  and  organic  acids,  but  its  alkaloidal  nature  was  first  proven  by  Fleitmann  (1846). 
Since  then  it  has  been  discovered  in  numerous  plants  of  the  orders  Berberidaceae,  Banuri- 
culaceae,  Menispermaceae,  etc.  (See  papers  in  Am.  Jour,  of  Pharm.,  1863,  pp.  97,  301, 
and  456.) 

For  the  preparation  of  berberine  Procter  (1864)  gives  a process  which  is  based  upon 
those  of  Buchner  and  Fleitmann : The  root  of  hydrastis  is  exhausted  with  boiling  water, 
the  decoction  evaporated,  the  soft  extract  exhausted  by  strong  alcohol,  some  water  is 
added,  most  of  the  alcohol  distilled  off,  and  then  an  excess  of  sulphuric  acid  added,  when, 
on  cooling,  berberine  sulphate  crystallizes,  requiring  recrystallization  from  hot  water 
for  purification.  Its  solution  in  hot  water  is  then  decomposed  by  freshly-precipitated 
lead  oxide  (caustic  baryta,  Fleitmann)  and  the  filtrate  allowed  to  crystallize.  It  forms 
fine  yellow  needles,  which  lose  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  nearly  19.5  per  cent,  of  water,  fuse 
at  120°  0.  (248°  F.),  are  insoluble  in  ether,  petroleum  benzin,  and  carbon  disulphide, 
and  dissolve  slightly  in  cold  water  and  benzene,  and  more  freely  in  alcohol  and  alkalies. 
Its  composition  is  C20H17NO4  (Perrins),  and  crystallizes  with  6H20  (Schreiber,  1889). 
By  adding  to  its  hot  solution  an  excess  of  acid,  crystals  of  neutral  or  acid  salts  are 
obtained,  which  are  usually  of  a bright  or  golden  yellow  color,  have  a bitter  taste,  and 
are  very  slightly  soluble  in  acidulated  water.  Berberine  dissolves  in  strong  sulphuric 
acid  with  a dingy-green,  and  in  nitric  acid  with  a dark  brown-red  color.  Solutions  of  its 
salts  are  precipitated  greenish-brown  by  potassium  ferrocyanide,  and  yellow  by  picric 
acid,  phosphomolybdic  acid,  or  chloride  of  gold,  platinum,  or  mercury ; the  precipitates 
are  mostly  crystalline  or  crystallize  readily  ; the  phosphomolybdate  dissolves  in  ammonia 
with  a blue  color.  Dissolved  in  hot  alcohol,  the  salts  of  berberine  yield,  with  solution 
of  iodine  in  potassium  iodide,  dark-green  scales  of  a metallic  lustre  and  appearing  red- 
dish-brown in  transmitted  light ; if  an  excess  of  iodine  be  employed,  the  crystals  are  of 
a red-brown  color  in  reflected  light.  This  behavior  is  recommended  by  Perrins  as  a 
convenient  test  for  this  alkaloid.  Berberine  hydrochlorate  assumes  with  chlorine  a 
blood-red  color  (Buchner).  This  behavior  furnishes  a delicate  test,  by  means  of  which, 
according  to  Klunge  (1875),  berberine  may  be  detected  in  over  200,000  parts  of  solution  ; 
brucine,  which  gives  a similar  color  with  chlorine,  yields  with  acids  colorless  solutions. 
L.  Henry  ascertained  (1859)  that  berberine  and  its  salts  are  colored  blood-red  by  bromine, 
and  that  after  the  deposition  of  hydrobromate  the  solution  gives  a black  precipitate  with 


BETULA. 


337 


ammonia.  Fused  with  potassium  hydroxide,  berberine  is  decomposed,  yielding  two  acids, 
one  of  which  is  sublimable,  and  vapors  having  the  odor  of  quinolin  (Hlasiwetz  and  Gilm). 
Berberine  forms  two  well-characterized  addition-products  with  chloroform,  acetone  and 
alcohol,  containing  1 and  2 molecules  of  each  of  the  latter  respectively  (Schreiber). 

Oxyacanthine , C32H46N2Ou,  remains  in  the  mother-liquor  from  which  the  berberine  salt 
has  been  precipitated  by  an  acid.  To  avoid  confusion  with  principles  in  Cratasgus  Oxya- 
cantha,  Berzelius  proposed  to  call  it  berbine , and  Wacker  suggested  the  name  of  vinetine. 
It  is  a white  alkaloid,  turning  yellow  in  sunlight,  nearly  insoluble  in  water,  and  has  a 
bitter  taste  and  an  alkaline  reaction  ; it  dissolves  in  30  parts  of  cold  and  in  1 part  of  boil- 
ing alcohol,  in  125  parts  of  cold  and  4 parts  of  boiling  ether,  and  is  easily  soluble  in 
chloroform,  benzene,  fats,  and  volatile  oils.  It  reduces  iodic  acid.  Sulphuric  acid  colors 
it  brown-red,  the  color  changing  on  heating  to  bright-red  and  brown.  Nitric  acid  imparts 
a yellow  and,  when  heated,  a purple  color.  Its  salts  give  white  precipitates  with  alkalies, 
soluble  in  excess,  with  alkali  carbonates,  potassium  iodide,  potassium  ferrocyanide,  potas- 
sium sulphocyanate,  or  mercuric  chloride,  and  yellow  precipitates  with  picric  acid  or 
potassium  ferricyanide. 

Berbamine , C18H19N03  -j-  2H20,  can  be  isolated  from  the  mother-liquor  in  the  prepara- 
tion of  berberine  hydrochlorate  by  precipitation  with  soda.  The  precipitate  is  dissolved 
in  acetic  acid,  and  after  removal  of  oxyacanthine  with  Glauber  salt,  berbamine  can  be 
precipitated  with  sodium  nitrate ; the  solution  of  the  nitrate  yields  with  ammonia  a crys- 
talline precipitate  of  berbamine.  The  salts  crystallize  easily  and  dissolve  readily  in 
water ; with  platinum  chloride  berbamine  yields  a yellow  crystalline  precipitate. 

The  first  two  alkaloids  are  also  contained  in  the  wood  and,  according  to  Lenssen  (1870), 
in  the  flowers  ; the  latter  contain,  in  addition,  volatile  oil,  and  3.57  per  cent,  of  sugar 
and  6.62  per  cent,  of  malic  acid  were  found  in  the  berries. 

Allied  Species. — In  India  the  root-bark  of  Berberis  aristata,  Be  Candolle , B.  asiatica, 
Roxburgh , and  B.  eycium,  Royle , is  employed  as  a tonic  ; it  contains  berberine  in  abundance. 

Several  species  of  Berberis,  belonging  to  the  section  of  Mahonia,  are  indigenous  to  the  Pacific 
coast  of  North  America,  growing  as  far  north  as  Vancouver  Island,  and  are  known  as  Oregon 
grape.  Berberis  repens,  Lindley,  is  about  20  to  25  Cm.  (8  or  10  inches)  high  ; B.  aquifolium, 
Pursh , attains  a height  of  1.2  to  1.8  M.  (4  to  6 feet),  and  B.  nervosa,  Pursh , of  about  10  Cm.  (4 
inches).  The  rhizomes  and  roots  of  these  low  shrubs  resemble  each  other  closely,  those  of  the 
first  species  being  thinnest.  Oregon  grape-root  varies  in  size  from  that  of  a quill  to  25  or 
50  Mm.  (an  inch  or  two)  in  diameter,  is  more  or  less  knotty  and  crooked,  has  externally  a 
yellowish-brown  color,  and  is  internally  of  a brighter  yellow ; the  bark  is  thin,  the  wood 
tough,  yellow,  striate  with  fine  medullary  rays,  and  encloses  a distinct  pith.  The  bark  has  a 
bitter  taste,  and  as  obtained  from  B.  nervosa  was  found  by  P.  Neppack  (1870)  to  contain 
berberine. 

Action  and  Uses. — Berberis-bark,  or  that  of  an  allied  species,  has  long  been  used 
in  India  as  a tonic  and  febrifuge.  All  parts  of  the  plant  are  employed  medicinally  in 
Europe — the  bark  as  a tonic  and  aperient,  and  the  leaves  as  antiscorbutic,  and  as  a 
depurative  in  low  fevers.  The  juice,  diluted  with  water,  is  used  as  a drink,  and  the  bark 
is  recommended  in  dysentery  and  dropsy.  The  experiments  of  Curci  (Bull,  de  Therap., 
ci.  329  ; Centralbl.  f.  Therap .,  v.  42)  and  others  with  berberine  throw  no  light  upon  its 
alleged  virtues.  It  is  supposed  to  act  as  a stomachic  tonic  and  to  increase  the  secretion 
of  bile.  It  has  been  given  in  atonic  dyspepsia , and  especially  in  that  condition  following 
cholera,  in  diarrhoea  from  the  same  cause,  in  infantile  and  tuberculous  diarrhoea,  etc. 
In  a word,  it  seems  to  be  adapted  to  such  cases  as  are  usually  treated  with  calumba.  It 
has  also  been  used  with  alleged  success  in  reducing  the  spleen  enlarged  by  malarial 
poisoning.  It  may  be  given  in  doses  from  0.10-0.30  Gm.  (2  to  5 grains),  in  pill  or 
powder,  or  in  alcoholic  solution.  Berberis  aquifolium  is  used  in  the  Western  States  as  a 
tonic  and  antiperiodic,  particularly  in  the  form  of  the  fluid  extract,  which  is  also  alleged 
to  have  cured  inveterate  cases  of  psoriasis  and  eczema.  It  is  also  recommended  in  dys- 
peptic disorders  with  constipation  (Med.  News,  lvii.  418). 

BETULA . —Birch. 

Bouleau , Fr. ; Birlce,  G. ; Abedul , Sp. 

The  bark,  leaves,  and  saccharine  juice  of  different  species  of  Betula. 

Nat.  Ord. — Cupuliferae. 

Origin. — The  genus  comprises  shrubs  and  trees  which  are  indigenous  to  the  northern 
hemisphere,  have  alternate  simple  and  straight-veined  leaves,  drooping  staminate  catkins, 
22 


338 


BETULA. 


and  shorter  cylindrical  fertile  catkins,  producing  broadly-winged  nutlets.  The  young 
twigs  and  leaves  of  most  species  are  pungently  aromatic ; the  bark  is  more  or  less  com- 
pletely separable  into  thin  concentric  layers,  and  when  wounded  in  the  spring  exudes  a 
juice  having  a sweet  and  somewhat  acidulous  taste. 

Description  and  Constituents. — Betula  alba,  Linne,  is  a slender  and  graceful 
tree  indigenous  to  Northern  Asia,  Europe,  and  America,  in  the  latter  continent  as  far 
south  as  Pennsylvania.  There  are  several  varieties,  varying  in  height  from  4.5  to  22.5  M. 
(15  to  75  feet).  The  bark  of  the  branches  is  brownish  and  verrucose,  of  the  trunk  white, 
smooth,  separating  in  thin  sheets,  and  of  an  astringent  somewhat  bitterish  taste.  The  leaves 
are  triangular-deltoid,  acuminate,  doubly  serrate,  light-green,  shining,  and  of  an  astringent 
taste  ; when  young,  glandular  and  pungent.  The  buds  and  young  twigs  yield  by  distillation 
i per  cent,  of  a colorless  volatile  oil  having  a balsamic  and  pungent  odor,  and  by  the  dry 
distillation  of  the  wood  and  bark  dark  red-brown  birch-tar  or  daggett  is  obtained,  which 
has  a strong  and  persistent  odor  of  Russia  leather,  and  yields  on  distillation  brown-red 
empyreumatic  oil  of  birch , known  as  oleum  rusci.  The  bark  contains  also  a camphoraeeous 
body,  betulin , C86HG0Oa,  which  forms  light,  flocculent,  crystalline,  tasteless  masses  fusible 
at  about  258°  C.  (496°  F.),  subliming  when  heated  with  care,  and  soluble  in  ether,  volatile 
oils,  hot  alcohol,  and  alkalies.  On  oxidation  one  or  more  acids  are  obtained,  and  on  dry 
distillation  an  oily  body,  which,  according  to  Hausmann  (1878),  has  the  characteristic 
odor  of  Russia  leather.  The  whitish  powder  covering  the  young  shoots  and  leaves  is 
betulo-resinic  acid , C36H2605,  which,  according  to  Kosmann  (1854),  has  a bitter  taste  in 
alcoholic  solution  and  dissolves  in  sulphuric  acid  with  a red  color. 

Betula  papyracea,  Aiton , the  canoe  birch , grows  in  Canada  and  the  northern  part  of 
the  United  States,  has  ovate,  heart-shaped,  taper-pointed  leaves,  and  a tough  white  bark 
splitting  into  thin  papery  layers,  which  are  used  by  the  Indians  in  making  canoes. 

Betula  lenta,  Linne , Sweet,  black  or  cherry-birch.  It  is  indigenous  to  Canada  and 
the  northern  part  of  the  United  States,  but  grows  in  the  mountains  as  far  south  as 
Georgia ; has  oblong  heart-shaped  and  acuminate  leaves,  which  are  pubescent  on  the  veins 
beneath,  and  a glossy  brown  bark,  the  outer  layers  of  which  are  slightly  laminate  and 
the  inner  layers  close  and  reddish-brown.  The  bark  and  leaves  yield  a volatile  oil,  which 
Procter  (1843)  found  to  be  identical  with  oil  of  gaultheria,  and  which  Kennedy  showed 
(1882)  is  largely  sold  in  place  of  the  latter.  Pettigrew  (1883)  found  it  to  be  pure 
methyl  salicylate,  and  to  have  the  spec.  grav.  1.180  at  15°  C.,  and  the  boiling-point  to  be 
constant  at  218°  C.  (424.4°  F.).  It  does  not  pre-exist  in  the  plant,  but  is  formed  by  the 
action  of  water  and  an  unknown  compound  of  the  bark  upon  gaidtherin.  This  principle 
is  syrupy,  colorless,  soluble  in  alcohol  and  water,  insoluble  in  ether,  and  when  distilled 
with  sulphuric  or  hydrochloric  acid  yields  the  volatile  oil.  The  bark  contains  3.3  per 
cent,  of  tannin  (Bowman,  1869). 

Action  and  Uses. — Experiment  and  observation  show  that  oil  of  birch  acts 
like  oil  of  wintergreen,  and  is  in  fact  identical  with  it.  A man  swallowed  a half-pint 
of  oil  of  birch,  after  which  for  several  hours  he  walked  about  town  on  business  and 
returned  to  his  home  by  rail.  Only  late  in  the  evening  he  fell  into  a drunken  stupor; 
his  face  was  flushed,  and  he  was  bathed  in  perspiration  smelling  of  the  oil.  He  vomited, 
but  was  not  purged.  His  stupor  increased  during  the  night,  and  the  next  morning  he 
died  (Ott,  Therap.  Gaz .,  ix.  302.)  In  the  dose  of  10  to  15  minims  three  or  four  times  a 
a day  it  will  usually  cause  some  ringing  in  the  ears.  White  birch  is  a popular  remedy  in 
the  north  of  Europe.  The  sap  is  held  to  be  a purifier  of  the  blood,  and  is  in  general  use 
for  the  cure  of  scaly  diseases  of  the  slcin,  rheumatic  and  gouty  disorders,  chronic  affec- 
tions of  the  bladder , scurvy , and  intermittent  fever.  The  fresh  leaves  are  used  to  form  a 
bed  in  which  rheumatic  patients  lie,  and  which  excites  profuse  sweating.  Reduced  to  a 
pulp  and  mixed  with  gunpowder  and  cream,  the  bark  is  thought  to  be  a sovereign  remedy 
for  the  itch.  A similar  pulp  mixed  with  oil  is  reputed  to  be  efficient  in  discussing 
scrofulous  enlargements  of  the  glands.  The  oil  of  birch  is  likewise  employed  to  cure 
chronic  cutaneous  eruptions , and  is  taken  internally  for  the  relief  of  gonorrhoea.  It  is  said 
to  have  a more  unpleasant  odor  than  kindred  oils,  and  when  used  should  be  scented  with 
oil  of  rosemary  or  lavender.  The  American  species  (sweet  birch)  also  appears  to 
possess  stimulant  qualities ; the  bark  and  leaves  are  sometimes  used  to  prepare  diapho- 
retic infusions,  and  the  oil  is  stated  to  have  cured  subacute  articular  rheumatism.  The 
white  rotten  wood  of  this  tree  is  sometimes  boiled  in  a decoction  of  Ledum  latifolium  for 
an  hour,  and  then,  dried  and  powdered,  is  said  to  be  useful  as  a dusting  powder  for 
children,  and  in  intertrigo  generally  (Amer.  Jour.  Phar .,  lvi.  620). 


BIDENS. — BISM  U TH I ET  AM  MO  Nil  CITRAS. 


339 


BIDENS— Spanish  Needles. 

The  herb  of  Bidens  bipinnata,  Linni . 

Nat.  Ord. — Compositae,  Senecionideae. 

Description. — This  annual  smooth  weed  is  indigenous  to  the  United  States,  and 
attains  a height  of  about  3 feet  (90  Cm.).  The  stem  is  quadrangular;  the  leaves  are  oppo- 
site, broadly  ovate  in  outline,  bipinnately  dissected,  the  divisions  lanceolate,  mostly  wedge- 
shaped  at  the  base ; the  flower-heads  are  small,  on  long  peduncles,  have  a double  involucre, 
three  or  four  short,  yellow,  and  dark-veined  ray-florets,  and  slender  quadrangular  three-  or 
four-awned  akenes.  The  plant  has  a disagreeable  odor  when  rubbed,  and  a herbaceous 
afterward  acrid  taste.  Its  constituents  have  not  been  investigated. 

Allied  Species. — Bidens  tripartita,  Linne — Chanvre  aquatique,  F. ; Wasserhanf,  G. — indig- 
enous to  Europe,  has  three-lobed  serrate  leaves,  yellow  tubular  florets,  and  two-awned  akenes. 
It  was  employed  like  the  preceding.  The  same  common  names  are  applied  in  Europe  to  Bidens 
oerxua,  hiring  Burmarigold,  E .,  which  is  also  indigenous  to  Canada  and  the  United  States 
south  to  Virginia : it  is  known  by  its  lanceolate,  serrate,  somewhat  connate  leaves,  its 
nodding  flower-heads  with  or  without  pale-yellow  rays,  and  its  flat,  retrorsely-barbed,  two- 
awned  akenes. 

Action  and  Uses. — A statement  was  long  ago  made  respecting  this  plant  that  its 
roots  and  seeds  have  a popular  reputation  as  emmenagogues  and  as  a remedy  for  acute 
laryngeal  and  bronchial  affections;  more  recently  they  have  been  used  for  the  relief  of  hay 
asthma.  Bidens  is  probably  a stimulant,  and,  when  suitably  administered  with  hot  water, 
a diaphoretic. 

BISMUTHI  CITRAS,  V . S.9  Br.—  Bismuth  Citrate. 

Bismuthum  citricum , Citras  bismuthicus. — Citrate  de  bismuth , Fr.  ; Wismuthcitrat , Cit- 
ronsaures  Wismuthoxyd , G. 

Formula  BiC6H507.  Molecular  weight  397.44. 

Preparation. — Bismuth  Subnitrate  100  Gm. ; Citric  Acid  70  Gm. ; Distilled  Water 
a sufficient  quantity.  Boil  the  bismuth  subnitrate  and  the  citric  acid  with  400  Cc.  of 
distilled  water  for  about  fifteen  minutes  or  until  a drop  of  the  mixture  yields  a clear 
solution  with  ammonia  water.  Then  add  5000  Cc.  of  distilled  water,  allow  the  suspended 
matter  to  deposit,  wash  the  precipitate  (first  by  decantation,  and  afterward  on  a strainer) 
with  distilled  water  until  the  washings  are  tasteless,  and  dry  the  residue  at  a gentle 
heat. — U.  S. 

This  is  the  process  of  R.  Bother,  first  proposed  in  1876,  and  consists  simply  in  the 
decomposition  at  the  boiling  temperature  of  the  bismuth  subnitrate  by  the  citric  acid, 
anhydrous  bismuthous  citrate  being  formed,  which  is  nearly  insoluble  in  water  and  in  the 
diluted  nitric  acid  produced  at  the  same  time.  The  decomposition  is  ascertained  to  be 
completely  by  means  of  ammonia,  which  will  then  yield  a clear  solution  with  a drop  of 
the  turbid  mixture.  The  yield  is  about  135  Gm. 

Properties  and  Tests. — Bismuth  citrate  is  a white,  amorphous  or  micro-crystal- 
line powder,  odorless  and  tasteless,  and  permanent  in  the  air,  insoluble  in  water  or  alco- 
hol, but  soluble  in  ammonia  water,  and  in  solutions  of  the  citrates  of  the  alkalies.  When 
strongly  heated  the  salt  chars,  and  on  ignition  leaves  a more  or  less  blackened  residue 
having  a yellow  surface,  and  soluble  in  warm  nitric  acid.  This  solution,  when  dropped 
into  water,  occasions  a white  turbidity.  The  ammoniacal  solution,  when  treated  with 
hydrogen  sulphide  in  excess,  yields  a black  precipitate.  If  the  filtrate  from  the  latter  be 
deprived  by  heat  of  the  excess  of  hydrogen  sulphide  and  cooled,  a portion  of  it,  boiled 
with  lime-water,  produces  a white  precipitate.  If  another  portion  of  the  filtrate  be 
mixed  with  an  equal  volume  of  concentrated  sulphuric  acid  and  cooled,  no  brown  or 
brownish-black  color  should  appear  around  a crystal  of  ferrous  sulphate  dropped  into  the 
liquid  (absence  of  nitrate).  ” — U.  S. 

BISMUTHI  ET  AMMONII  CITRAS,  U.  S.,  Br. — Bismuth  and  Ammonium 

Citrate. 

Bismuthi  ammonio-citras,  Bismuthum  citricum  ammoniatum. — Citrate  de  bismuth  ammo- 
niacal, Fr.  ; Wismuthammoncitrat , Citronensaures  Wismnthammonium , G. 

Preparation. — Bismuth  Citrate  100  Gm.  ; Ammonia-water,  Distilled  Water,  each  a 
sufficient  quantity.  Mix  the  bismuth  citrate  with  200  Cc.  of  distilled  water  to  a smooth 
paste,  and  gradually  add  ammonia-water  until  the  salt  is  dissolved  and  the  liquid  has  a 
neutral  or  only  faintly  alkaline  reaction.  Then  filter  the  solution,  evaporate  it  to  a 


340 


BISMUTHI  OXIDUM. 


syrupy  consistence,  and  spread  it  on  plates  of  glass,  so  that  on  drying  the  salt  may  be 
obtained  in  scales.  Keep  the  product  in  small,  well-stoppered  vials,  protected  from 

light.—  U S. 

Rother  (1876)  states  that  dry  bismuth  citrate  yields  with  ammonia-water  a syrupy 
liquid  and  a hard  white  mass,  the  latter  being  unaffected  by  excess  of  ammonia,  hut  dis- 
solving on  the  application  of  a gentle  heat ; this  solution  crystallizes  on  cooling,  and  the 
crystals,  after  being  dried  on  a water-bath,  are  again  soluble  in  water,  and  may  be 
regarded  as  a compound  of  triammonium  citrate  with  bismuthous  hydroxide,  having  the 
formula  (NH*)3C6H507Bi(0H)3.  Since  the  Pharmacopoeia  makes  no  provision  for  supply- 
ing the  ammonia  lost  during  the  concentration  of  the  liquid,  the  salt  will  have  a more  or 
less  variable  composition,  probably  approaching  that  determined  by  N.  Gray  Bartlett 
(1865)  for  a salt  prepared  by  a similar  process — namely,  BiC6H507NH40H.2H.20  (mole- 
cular weight  470).  The  yield  by  the  official  process  is  about  120  Gm. 

Properties. — Bismuth  and  ammonium  citrate  is  in  small,  shining,  pearly  or  translu- 
cent scales,  odorless,  having  a slightly  acidulous  and  metallic  taste,  and  becoming  opaque 
on  exposure  to  the  air,  very  soluble  in  water,  and  but  very  sparingly  soluble  in  alcohol. 
When  strongly  heated,  the  salt  fuses,  then  chars,  and  finally  leaves  a more  or  less  black- 
ened residue,  having  a yellow  surface  and  soluble  in  warm  nitric  acid.  This  solution, 
when  dropped  into  water,  occasions  a white  turbidity.  The  aqueous  solution  of  the 
salt  is  neutral  or  faintly  alkaline  to  litmus-paper.  When  boiled  with  potassium  or 
sodium  hydroxide  test-solution,  it  evolves  the  vapor  of  ammonia,  and  when  treated  with 
hydrogen  sulphide  it  yields  a black  precipitate.  If  the  filtrate  from  the  latter  be 
deprived  by  heat  of  the  excess  of  hydrogen  sulphide  and  cooled,  a portion  of  it,  boiled 
with  lime-water,  produces  a white  precipitate.  If  another  portion  of  the  filtrate  be 
mixed  with  an  equal  volume  of  concentrated  sulphuric  acid  and  cooled,  no  brown  or 
brownish-black  zone  should  appear  around  a crystal  of  ferrous  sulphate  dropped  into  the 
liquid  (absence  of  nitrate).” — U.  S. 

The  dry  salt  slowly  loses  ammonia  on  keeping,  thereby  becoming  partly  insoluble  in 
water ; the  cautious  addition  of  a few  drops  of  ammonia-water  to  such  a turbid  mixture 
will  then  usually  make  a perfect  solution. 

Action  and  Uses. — If  the  virtues  of  subcarbonate  and  subnitrate  of  bismuth 
depend  upon  the  insolubility  of  these  salts,  as  appears  to  be  the  case,  then  its  soluble 
salts  must  act  in  quite  a different  manner ; but  of  their  special  action  we  possess  no  evi- 
dence except  that  derived  from  experiments  upon  animals,  in  which  they  occasion  the 
common  symptoms  of  irritant  poisons.  The  dose  of  the  citrate  of  bismuth  and 
ammonium  is  said  to  be  Gm.  0.10-0.20  (gr.  ij-iv),  but  if  used  at  all  this  compound  should 
only  be  applied  locally  as  an  astringent. 

BISMUTHI  OXIDUM,  .Br.— Bismuth  Oxide. 

Bismuthum  oxy datum , Oxydum  bismuthicum. — Oxyde  de  bismuth , Fr. ; Wismuthoxyd , G. 

Formula  Bi203.  Molecular  weight  465.68. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Bismuth  Subnitrate  1 pound ; Solution  of  Soda  4 pints. 
Mix  and  boil  for  five  minutes ; then,  having  allowed  the  mixture  to  cool  and  the  oxide 
to  subside,  decant  the  supernatant  liquid,  wash  the  precipitate  thoroughly  with  distilled 
water,  and  finally  dry  the  oxide  by  the  heat  of  a water-bath. — Br. 

In  this  process  the  bismuth  subnitrate  is  decomposed  by  the  soda,  sodium  nitrate,  and 
white  bismuth  hydroxide  being  formed,  the  former  of  which  remains  dissolved  in  the 
water ; 2(Bi0N03.H20)  + 2NaOH  yields  2Bi(OH)3  or  Bi203.3H20  + 2NaN03.  On  dry- 
ing the  precipitate  without  heat  it  loses  water  and  leaves  bismuthyl  hydroxide , BiO.OH, 
but  at  the  temperature  of  boiling  water  the  anhydrous  oxide  is  left. 

Properties. — Bismuth  oxide  forms  a dull-yellow  more  or  less  crystalline  powder, 
which  dissolves  in  mineral  acids  without  effervescence,  and  these  solutions  are  colorless 
and  yield  black  precipitates  with  hydrogen  sulphide,  and  white  ones  with  alkalies,  alkali 
carbonates  and  much  water,  the  precipitates  being  insoluble  in  an  excess  of  the  precip- 
itants.  When  heated  to  incipient  redness  the  oxide  is  not  diminished  in  weight.  At  a 
higher  temperature  it  fuses  to  a brown  mass,  which  becomes  yellow  again  on  cooling. 
The  oxides  of  lead  and  silver  are  likely  to  be  present  as  impurities,  and  are  detected  by 
dissolving  in  nitric  acid  and  testing  as  described  under  Bismuthi  Subnitras. 

Action  and  Uses. — Oxide  of  bismuth  would  appear  to  be  nearly  insoluble  in  the 
stomach  ; for  in  a woman  with  gastric  cancer,  to  whom  it  was  given,  a mass  of  it 
weighing  a pound,  which  must  have  remained  there  for  at  least  two  months,  was  found 
in  the  stomach  after  her  death  ( Practitioner , xxviii.  293).  It  has  been  used  for  the  same 


BISMUTHI  SUBCARBONAS. 


341 


purposes  as  the  subcarbonate  and  the  subnitrate,  and  has  been  particularly  recommended, 
when  mixed  with  powdered  gum-acacia  and  muriate  of  morphia,  as  a snuff  in  post-nasal 
catarrh  and  ozsena.  It  may  be  prescribed  in  the  dose  of  0.20  Gm.  (gr.  iij)  and  upward. 

BISMUTHI  SUBCARBONAS,  77.  S. — Bismuth  Subcarbonate. 

Bismuthi  carhonas , Br. ; Bismuthum  subcarbonicum , Subcarbonas  bismuthicus. — Car- 
bonate of  bismuth , Bismuthyl  carbonate , E. ; Sous-carbonate  de  bismuth , Fr. ; Wismuthsub- 
carbonat , Basisches  kohlensaures  Wismuthoxyd,  G. 

Formula  (Bi0)2C03.H20  ? Molecular  weight  527.53.? 

Preparation. — Take  of  Purified  Bismuth  in  small  pieces  2 ounces  ; Nitric  Acid  4 
fluidounces  ; Ammonium  Carbonate  6 ounces  ; Distilled  Water  a sufficiency.  Mix  the 
nitric  acid  with  3 ounces  of  distilled  water  and  add  the  bismuth  in  successive  portions. 
When  the  effervescence  has  ceased,  apply  for  ten  minutes  a heat  approaching  that  of 
ebullition,  and  afterward  decant  the  solution  from  any  insoluble  matter  that  may  be 
present.  Evaporate  the  solution  until  it  is  reduced  to  2 fluidounces,  and  add  this  in 
small  quantities  at  a time  to  a cold  filtered  solution  of  the  ammonium  carbonate  in  2 
pints  of  distilled  water,  constantly  stirring  during  admixture.  Collect  the  precipitate  on 
a calico  filter,  and  wash  it  with  distilled  water  until  the  washings  pass  tasteless.  Remove 
now  as  much  of  the  adhering  water  as  can  be  separated  from  the  precipitate  by  slight 
pressure  with  the  hands,  and  finally  dry  the  product  at  a temperature  not  exceeding 
150°  F. — Br. 

In  this  process  a solution  of  bismuthous  nitrate  is  first  formed  and  concentrated  by 
evaporation,  when  it  is  added  to  a cold  solution  of  an  alkali  carbonate.  Most  metallic 
bismuth  contains  some  arsenic,  which  is  also  oxidized  by  the  nitric  acid,  so  that  bismuth 
arsenate  is  found  in  the  solution.  In  order  to  remove  nearly  the  whole  of  the  arsenic, 
the  nitric  acid  solution  may  be  diluted  with  sufficient  distilled  water  until  it  remains 
faintly  milky  after  stirring ; on  being  set  aside  for  a day  most  of  the  arsenate  will  be 
found  deposited  as  a white  crystalline  precipitate.  The  clear  solution,  still  retaining  a 
small  proportion  of  arsenic,  may  be  almost  completely  deprived  of  it  by  pouring  it  into 
an  excess  of  ammonia-water,  whereby  soluble  ammonium  nitrate  and  arsenate  are  formed, 
while  bismuthous  hydroxide  is  precipitated  ; this  may  then  be  converted  into  sub- 
carbonate by  dissolving  in  sufficient  nitric  acid,  pouring  the  liquid  slowly  and  with  constant 
stirring  into  a solution  of  sodium  carbonate,  draining  the  precipitate  upon  a strainer,  and 
washing  it  with  distilled  water.  This  process  was  originally  proposed  by  Dr.  Squibb,  and 
adopted  in  the  U.  S.  P.  1870  with  the  following  working  quantities  : Bismuth  2 troy- 
ounces  is  dissolved  in  a mixture  of  nitric  acid  4^  troyounces  and  water  4 fluidounces ; 
the  solution  is  diluted  with  water  10  fluidounces;  on  the  next  day  decanted  and  filtered, 
diluted  with  water  4 pints,  and  mixed  with  ammonia-water  5 fluidounces ; the  precipitate 
is  drained,  washed,  and  dissolved  in  nitric  acid  4 troyounces ; the  solution  is  mixed  with 
water  4 fluidounces,  next  day  filtered  and  slowly  poured  into  a cold  solution  of  sodium 
carbonate  10  troyounces  in  water  12  fluidounces  ; the  precipitate  is  collected  on  a strainer, 
drained,  and  washed  until  the  washings  pass  tasteless.  In  following  this  process  it  is 
important  that  the  dilution  with  water  should  be  carried  far  enough  until  a turbidity  is 
observed  which  does  not  disappear  completely  on  stirring ; this  solution  should  be  set 
aside  for  a sufficient  length  of  time,  as  indicated ; the  acid  solutions  should  be  added 
slowly  and  with  continual  stirring  to  the  alkaline  solutions,  in  order  to  ensure  the  com- 
plete decomposition  of  the  acid  salt ; and  the  washing  should  not  be  continued  for  too 
long  a time,  in  order  to  avoid  gradual  decomposition  of  the  subcarbonate  into  hydrate. 
If  the  final  precipitation  be  effected  at  a boiling  temperature,  an  anhydrous  subcarbonate 
would  be  precipitated. 

The  final  reaction  is  explained  by  the  equation  2Bi(N03)3  -f-  3Na2C03-f  H20  = (BiO)2, 
C03.H20  -f-  6NaN03  -j-  2C02,  showing  that  carbon  dioxide  is  given  off. 

Properties. — “Bismuth  subcarbonate  is  a white  or  pale  yellowish-white  powder  of 
somewhat  varying  chemical  composition,  odorless  and  tasteless,  and  permanent  in  the  air. 
It  is  insoluble  in  water  or  alcohol,  but  completely  soluble  in  nitric  or  hydrochloric  acid, 
with  copious  effervescence.  When  heated  to  redness  the  salt  loses  water  and  carbon 
dioxide,  and  leaves  from  87  to  91  per  cent,  of  a yellow  residue  which  is  soluble  in  nitric 
or  hydrochloric  acid  and  blackened  by  hydrogen  sulphide.” — U.  S. 

Tests. — If  3 Gm.  of  the  salt  be  dissolved  in  just  a sufficient  quantity  (about  4 Cc.) 
of  warm  nitric  acid,  and  the  solution  poured  into  100  Cc.  of  water,  a white  precipitate 
is  produced.  After  filtering,  and  evaporating  the  filtrate  on  a water-bath  to  30  Cc., 


342 


BISMUTHI  SUBNITRAS. 


again  filtering,  and  dividing  this  filtrate  into  portions  of  5 Cc.,  these  should  respond  to 
the  following  tests  : On  mixing  one  portion  with  an  equal  volume  of  diluted  sulphuric  acid 
it  should  not  become  cloudy  (absence  of  lead).  If  another  portion  be  precipitated  with 
a slight  excess  of  ammonia-water,  the  supernatant  liquid  should  not  exhibit  a bluish  tint 
(absence  of  copper).  Other  portions  should  not  be  affected  by  silver  nitrate  test-solu- 
tion (absence  of  chloride),  or  barium  nitrate  test-solution  (sulphate),  nor  yield,  with 
hydrochloric  acid,  a precipitate  which  is  insoluble  in  a slight  excess  of  the  latter  (silver). 
If  1 Gm.  of  the  salt  be  boiled  with  10  Cc.  of  a mixture  of  equal  parts  of  acetic  acid 
and  water,  and  the  cold  filtrate  freed  from  bismuth  by  hydrogen  sulphide,  the  new  filtrate 
should  leave  no  fixed  residue  on  evaporation  (absence  of  alkalies  and  alkaline  earths). 
On  boiling  1 Gm.  of  the  salt  with  10  Cc.  of  sodium  hydroxide  test-solution,  it  should  not 
evolve  the  odor  of  ammonia.  If  1 Gm.  of  the  salt  be  heated  with  10  Cc.  of  a mixture 
of  equal  parts  of  concentrated  sulphuric  acid  and  water,  tinged  slightly  blue  with  indigo 
test-solution,  the  color  of  the  latter  should  not  be  discharged  (absence  of  nitrate).  If  1 
Gm.  of  the  salt  be  ignited  in  a porcelain  crucible,  the  residue,  when  cold,  dissolved  in  5 Cc. 
of  stannous  chloride  test-solution,  and  a small  piece  of  pure  tin-foil  added,  no  dark  color- 
ation or  precipitate  should  be  produced  within  fifteen  minutes  (limit  of  arsenic). — U.  S. 

Action  and  Uses. — Introduced  as  a substitute  for  subnitrate  of  bismuth,  this 
preparation  was  claimed  to  possess  the  advantages  of  greater  solubility  in  the  gastric 
juices,  and  therefore  to  be  less  likely  than  the  subnitrate  to  confine  the  bowels  and  color 
the  stools.  But  these  effects,  so  far  from  being  advantages,  would  unfit  the  salt  more  or 
less  for  use  in  the  class  of  cases  in  which  the  subnitrate  has  been  found  advantageous 
because  it  is  nearly  insoluble.  Dose , Gm.  0.60-4.00  (gr.  x-lx),  suspended  in  water. 

BISMUTHI  SUBNITRAS,  U.  8.,  Br.— Bismuth  Subnitrate. 

Bismuthum  subnitricum , P.  G.  ; Bismutkum  hydrico-nitricum,  Magisterium  bismuthi , sub- 
azotas  (s.  Subnitras ) bismuthicus. — Bismuthyl  nitrate , E. ; Sous-azotate  ( Sous-nitrate ) de 
bismuthyBr.  ; Basisches  Wismuthnitrat  ( salpetersaures  Wismuthoxyd ),  Wismuthsubnitrat , G. 
Formula  Bi0N03H20?  Molecular  weight  304.71? 

Preparation. — Take  of  Purified  Bismuth  in  small  pieces  2 ounces ; Nitric  Acid  4 
fluidounces  ; Distilled  Water  a sufficiency.  Mix  the  nitric  acid  with  3 ounces  of  distilled 
water,  and  add  the  bismuth  in  successive  portions.  When  effervescence  has  ceased, .apply 
for  ten  minutes  a heat  approaching  that  of  ebullition,  and  decant  the  solution  from  any 
insoluble  matter  that  may  be  present.  Evaporate  the  solution  until  it  is  reduced  to  2 
fluidounces,  and  pour  it  into  half  a gallon  of  distilled  water.  When  the  precipitate  which 
forms  has  subsided,  decant  the  supernatant  liquid,  add  half  a gallon  of  distilled  water  to 
the  precipitate,  stir  them  well  together,  and  after  two  hours  decant  off  the  liquid,  collect 
and  drain  the  precipitate  in  a calico  filter,  press  it  with  the  hands,  and  dry  it  at  a tem- 
perature not  exceeding  150°  F. — Br. 

By  dissolving  the  metal  in  nitric  acid  the  latter  is  partly  decomposed,  nitric  oxide 
being  evolved  and  water  generated,  while  the  bismuth  dissolves,  forming  normal  bismuth 
nitrate  ; thus  : Bi2  + 8HN03  = 2Bi(N03)3  -f-  2NO  + 4H20.  Other  metals  likely  to  be 
present  are  dissolved  with  the  formation  of  nitrates,  except  arsenic,  which  is  oxidized  to 
arsenic  acid.  The  bismuth  having  been  previously  purified,  the  solution  practically  should 
contain  only  bismuth  nitrate.  The  latter  requires  now  to  be  converted  into  the  sub- 
nitrate,  which  is  accomplished  by  water.  The  most  uniform  results  are  obtained  by  add- 
ing the  acid  solution  to  a definite  quantity  of  cold  water ; the  decomposition  taking  place 
may  be  explained  by  the  following  equation : 6Bi(N03)3  ~|-  10H2O  ==  5Bi0N03H20  -f- 
Bi(N03)3  -j-  10HNO3.  The  nitric  acid  which  is  liberated  will  retain  a portion  of  normal 
bismuth  nitrate  in  solution.  Ditte  ascertained  that  water  containing  in  each  liter  83  Gm. 
of  N205  ==  96.83  Gm.  of  HN03  will  dissolve  both  normal  and  basic  nitrate,  forming  with 
the  latter  the  normal  salt,  so  that  no  decomposition  will  take  place  on  the  further  addi- 
tion of  the  acid  liquid.  But  if  the  precipitate  is  left  for  too  long  a time  in  contact  with 
the  acid  mother-liquor,  an  oxynitrate  of  the  formula  4Bi0N03.Bi(0H)3.3H20  is  gradually 
formed  ; by  precipitating  the  solution  with  water  of  about  50°  C.  (122°  F.)  an  oxynitrate 
is  obtained  having  the  composition  5 Bi0N03.Bi(0H)3.3H20  ; and  by  washing  the  official 
or  the  above  compounds  for  some  time  with  water  thev  are  decomposed  into  still  more 
basic  salts  of  the  formulas  3Bi0N03.Bi(0H)3.3H20  and  3Bi0N03.2Bi(0H)3.H20.  It 
is  obvious  from  the  foregoing  that  even  with  the  most  careful  manipulation  the  product 
obtained  is  not  likely  to  be  of  a definite  composition,  but  to  consist  of  a mixture  of  the 
above  two  salts  or  of  intermediate  basic  salts. 


BISMUTH!  SUBNITRAS. 


343 


The  U.  S.  P.  1870  used  commercial  bismuth,  which  was  freed  from  the  contaminating 
metals  by  a process  analogous  to  that  described  for  the  subcarbonate  ; the  diluted  and  fil- 
tered solution  in  nitric  acid  was  first  precipitated  by  pouring  it  into  an  excess  of  solution 
of  sodium  carbonate  ; the  bismuthous  carbonate  was  redissolved  in  sufficient  nitric  acid, 
diluted  with  water,  filtered  and  poured  into  a definite  quantity  of  water,  to  which  subse- 
quently ammonia  was  added  to  partly  neutralize  the  nitric  acid,  so  as  to  precipitate  also 
the  greater  part  of  the  bismuth  still  held  in  solution. 

The  following  is  the  process  of  the  German  Pharmacopoeia : 5 parts  of  nitric  acid  sp. 
gr.  1 .20,  are  heated  to  75°-90°  C.  (167°-194°  F.),  and  to  this  is  then  added,  small  portions 
at  a time,  1 part  of  coarsely-powdered  bismuth,  and  solution  facilitated  by  further  appli- 
cation of  heat.  After  several  days  of  rest  the  clear  solution  is  decanted,  evaporated,  and 
crystallized ; the  crystals  are  washed  with  water  acidulated  with  nitric  acid.  1 part  of 
the  crystallized  bismuth  nitrate  is  rubbed  up  into  a uniform  mixture  with  4 parts  of 
water,  and  the  whole  is  then  added  to  21  parts  of  boiling  water ; the  precipitate  is  sepa- 
rated by  filtration,  washed  with  an  equal  volume  of  cold  water,  and  finally  dried  at  30° 
C.  (86°  F.).  In  this  process  the  arsenic  is  gotten  rid  of  as  bismuth  arsenate  by  allowing 
the  first  solution  to  subside  for  some  days,  and  finally  crystallizing  the  bismuth  ternitrate, 
which  salt  is  afterward  decomposed  by  boiling  water. 

With  the  view  of  obtaining  the  salt  of  definite  composition,  Lalieu  (1878)  proposed 
its  preparation  from  the  well-washed  and  still  moist  oxide  obtained  from  200  Gm.  of  the 
metal  by  treating  it  with  nitric  acid  equal  to  48.5  Gm.  of  nitric  anhydride,  adding  it  in 
small  quantitieSj  and  then  heating  until  the  mixture  becomes  limpid  and  white  ; after 
the  addition  of  a little  water  the  subnitrate  is  thrown  upon  a filter,  washed  wTith  twice 
its  bulk  of  water,  expressed,  and  dried;  the  yield  is  265  Gm. 

Properties. — Bismuth  subnitrate  is  a heavy  white  powder  in  minute  crystalline 
scales  and  of  a somewhat  satiny  appearance.  It  is  not  altered  on  exposure  to  air  or 
light,  is  inodorous,  has  a faintly  acid  taste,  and  when  moistened  on  litmus-paper  has  a 
slight  but  decided  acid  reaction.  It  is  insoluble  in  water  and  alcohol,  but  dissolves  com- 
pletely and  without  effervescence  in  mineral  acids.  “ When  heated  to  120°  C.  (248°  F.) 
it  loses  between  3 and  5 per  cent,  of  moisture,  and  at  a red  heat  it  gives  off  yellowish-red 
vapors  and  leaves  between  79  and  82  per  cent,  of  a yellow  residue,  which  is  soluble  in 
nitric  or  hydrochloric  acid,  and  is  blackened  by  hydrogen  sulphide.” — U.  S.  The  formula 
given  above  requires  76.5  per  cent,  of  Bi203.  This  difference  may  be  due  to  loss  of 
water  by  drying  at  too  high  a temperature,  but  is  usually  owing  to  changes  in  its  com- 
position occurring  during  its  preparation  under  the  circumstances  described  above.  The 
loss  by  ignition  of  these  non-official  oxynitrates  ranges  between  16  and  20  per  cent. 

Tests. — “ On  dissolving  3 Gm.  of  salt  in  3 Cc.  of  warm  nitric  acid  no  effervescence 
should  occur  (absence  of  carbonate),  and  no  residue  should  be  left  (absence  of  insoluble 
foreign  salts).  If  this  solution  be  poured  into  100  Cc.  of  water,  a white  precipitate  is 
produced,  and,  after  filtering,  evaporating  the  filtrate  on  a water-bath  to  30  Cc.,  again 
filtering,  and  dividing  the  filtrate  into  portions  of  5 Cc.  each,  these  should  respond  to  the 
tests  for  purity  described  under  Bismuthi  Subcarbonas.  When  further  tested  as 
described  under  Bismuthi  Subcarbonas,  the  salt  should  be  found  free  from  alkalies 
and  alkaline  earths,  and  should  give  no  reaction  for  ammonia.  If  1 Gm.  of  the  salt 
be  heated  in  a porcelain  crucible  until  nitrous  vapors  cease  to  be  evolved,  the  residue, 
when  cold,  dissolved  in  5 Cc.  of  stannous  chloride  test-solution,  and  a small  piece  of 
pure  tin-foil  added,  no  dark  coloration  or  precipitate  should  be  produced  within  fifteen 
minutes  (limit  of  arsenic).” — U.  S. 

Bismuth  and  Bismuth  Salts. — 1.  Bismuthum,  Br. ; Bismuth,  E .,  Fr. ; Wismuth,  G.  Symbol 
Bi.  Atomicity  trivalent  and  quinquivalent  Atomic  weight  208.9. — The  supply  of  bismuth  is 
chiefly  derived  from  the  mines  in  Saxony,  where  it  exists  in  the  metallic  state  associated  with 
cobalt,  nickel,  and  silver  ores.  It  is  likewise  found  oxidized  as  bismuth  ochre,  in  combination 
with  sulphur  and  with  tellurium,  and  in  gold  ores.  Deposits  of  bismuth  ore  have  been  dis- 
covered in  Hungary,  France,  Cornwall,  and  other  parts  of  Europe,  in  Texas,  California,  Mexico, 
Bolivia,  and  other  parts  of  America,  and  in  Australia.  Bismuth  appears  to  have  been  first 
recognized  as  a distinct  metal  by  Basilius  Valentinus  in  the  fifteenth  century,  but  was  afterward 
frequently  confounded  with  antimony,  tin,  and  zinc  until  Pott  (1739),  and  afterward  Bergmann; 
Davy,  and  others,  proved  its  distinct  properties.  The  metal  is  extracted  by  a simple  process  of 
smelting,  advantage  being  taken  of  its  low  melting-point,  and  run  into  hot  iron  receiving-pots, 
where  it  congeals.  The  bismuth  sulphide  requires  to  be  roasted  ; it  is  thus  converted  into  oxide, 
which  is  reduced  to  the  metallic  state  by  being  heated  with  charcoal.  The  crude  metal  thus 
obtained  contains  variable  quantities  of  arsenic,  copper,  iron,  and  other  metals. 

Bismuthum  purificatum,  Br, — Purified  bismuth. — Take  of  Bismuth  10  ounces ; Potassium 


344 


BISMUTHI  SUBNITRAS. 


Cyanide  4 ounce ; Sulphur  80  grains ; Potassium  Carbonate  and  Sodium  Carbonate,  recently 
ignited,  of  each  a sufficient  quantity.  Melt  the  bismuth  in  a crucible.  Add  the  potassium 
cyanide  and  sulphur,  previously  mixed.  Heat  the  whole  to  low  redness  for  fifteen  minutes,  con- 
stantly stirring.  Remove  the  crucible  from  the  fire,  and  let  it  cool  until  the  flux  has  solidified 
to  a crust.  Pierce  two  holes  in  the  crust  and  pour  the  still  fluid  bismuth  into  another  crucible. 
Remelt  this  partially  purified  bismuth  with  about  5 per  cent,  of  a mixture  of  dried  potassium 
and  sodium  carbonate,  heating  to  bright  redness  and  constantly  stirring.  Remove  the  crucibles 
from  the  fire,  and  pour  out  the  bismuth  into  suitable  moulds. 

The  flux  of  potassium  sulphocyanate  removes  some  of  the  impurities,  while  the  remainder  are 
removed  by  the  alkali  carbonates. 

A method  proposed  by  Mr.  Mehu  (1873)  aims  at  the  formation  of  an  alloy  with  potassium  by 
heating  to  redness  a mixture  of  powdered  crude  bismuth,  potassium  carbonate,  charcoal,  and 
soap  under  a layer  of  well-washed  charcoal ; the  metallic  button  obtained  at  the  end  of  an  hour 
is  then  fused  in  a capsule,  for  the  purpose  of  oxidizing  the  potassium  to  potassa,  which  is  accom- 
plished when  a yellow-brown  layer  of  bismuth  oxide  begins  to  form.  It  is  claimed  that  arsenic 
and  sulphur  are  completely  removed  by  this  process. 

Properties. — Bismuth  is  a brilliant  grayish-white  metal  with  a distinct  roseate  tinge  and  a 
crystalline  lamellate  texture.  When  fused  bismuth  is  cooled  until  a crust  has  formed,  and  the 
liquid  portion  is  then  poured  out,  the  crucible  will  be  found  lined  with  rhombohedral  crystals 
resembling  cubes.  Its  specific  gravity  is  9.83,  which  is  diminished  by  high  pressure.  It  fuses 
at  268.3°  C.  (515°  F.),  and  when  congealing  expands  considerably,  like  water  under  similar  cir- 
cumstances, the  density  of  the  liquid  metal  being  more  than  3 per  cent,  greater  than  that  of  solid 
bismuth.  It  boils  above  1100°  C.  (2012°  F.),  and  may  be  distilled  in  a current  of  hydrogen.  It 
is  superficially  tarnished  at  the  ordinary  temperature  by  exposure  to  the  air,  but  at  a red  heat 
decomposes  the  vapor  of  water  and  burns  in  the  air  with  a bluish  flame  to  brown  oxide,  becom- 
ing yellow  on  cooling.  It  has  the  peculiar  property  of  lowering  the  fusing-point  of  metals  ; an 
alloy  of  2 parts  of  bismuth  and  1 part  each  of  lead  and  tin  fuses  at  93.75°  C.  (200.75°  F.).  It  is 
but  slightly  attacked  by  boiling  hydrochloric  or  dilute  sulphuric  acid ; but  nitric  acid  dissolves 
it  readily,  the  solution  on  concentrating  yielding  crystals  of  bismuth  nitrate  (see  Bismuthi  Sub- 
nitras)  ; the  mother-liquor  or  the  original  solution  in  nitric  acid,  suitably  diluted  with  water 
and  separated  from  the  white  precipitate  of  subnitrate,  should  not  yield  a wnite  precipitate  with 
sulphuric  acid  (lead),  or  a blue  one  with  potassium  ferrocyanide  (iron),  or  with  the  same 
reagent  a reddish-brown  one  (copper).  The  presence  of  arsenic  is  ascertained  by  adding  sul- 
phuric acid  to  the  solution,  evaporating  it  to  complete  dryness,  and  applying  Marsh’s  or  Fleit- 
mann’s  test  (see  pages  26  and  27).  Silver,  which  is  occasionally  present,  will  be  indicated  by 
the  white  precipitate  which  takes  place  in  the  nitric-acid  solution,  previously  diluted  with  water 
as  much  as  possible,  on  the  addition  of  hydrochloric  acid.  The  fetid  breath  following  the  admin- 
istration of  bismuth  preparations  has  been  attributed  by  C.  Ekin  (1876)  to  the  presence  of  some 
tellurium  •,  but  from  observations  made  by  Dr.  Squibb  (1882)  this  appears  to  be  doubtful,  or  at 
least  not  the  sole  cause. 

The  salts  of  bismuth  are  colorless,  except  those  formed  with  a colored  acid  or  acidulous  radi- 
cal. The  nitrate,  sulphate,  and  chloride  dissolve  in  a small  quantity  of  acidulated  water,  but 
are  decomposed  by  a large  quantity  of  water,  with  the  formation  of  insoluble  basic  salts.  The 
solutions  of  bismuth  salts  yield  with  hydrogen  sulphide  a black  precipitate  insoluble  in  ammo- 
nium sulphide,  with  alkalies  white  precipitate  insoluble  in  an  excess,  and  with  zinc,  cadmium, 
or  copper  a dark-gray  spongy  mass  consisting  of  metallic  bismuth.  The  solutions  give  with 
potassium  iodide  a yellowish-brown  precipitate,  becoming  red  on  the  addition  of  water ; this 
coloring  being  so  intense  that  a minute  quantity  of  bismuth  may  be  detected  in  lead  if  the  acetate 
is  precipitated  by  an  excess  of  potassium  iodide  and  the  mixture  heated  to  boiling ; on  cooling, 
the  golden-yellow  color  of  the  lead  iodide  will  be  tinged  crimson,  orange,  or  brown,  according 
to  the  proportion  of  bismuth  present  (Field  and  Abel,  1877). 

2.  Bismuthi  nitras  s.  ternitrate,  Bismuthum  trisnitricum. — Bismuth  nitrate,  Normal  bis- 
muth nitrate,  E. ; Azotate  (nitrate)  de  bismuth  neutre,  F. : Wismuthnitrat,  G.  Bi(N03)3.5H20. 
Mol.  weight  584.37. — The  manner  in  which  this  salt  may  be  obtained  free  from  arsenic  has  been 
described  above.  Normal  bismuth  nitrate  crystallizes  in  large  colorless  prisms  having  a strongly 
acid  taste,  melting  at  about  80°  C.  (176°  F.)  in  its  water  of  crystallization,  parting  with  a por- 
tion of  its  acid  near  120°  C.  (248°  F.),  and  with  the  whole  of  it  at  260°  C.  (500°  F.),  leaving 
Bi203  behind.  Water  decomposes  the  salt,  forming  a basic  nitrate.  Mr.  Balmanno  Squire  (1876) 
found  the  normal  bismuth  nitrate  to  be  soluble  in  glycerin,  and  this  solution,  when  recently 
made,  is  miscible  with  water  without  being  precipitated.  Mr.  J.  Williams  observed  that 
heat  must  be  avoided  in  preparing  the  solution  and  after  diluting  it  with  water,  and  that 
potassa  and  soda  cause  in  it  a white  precipitate,  which  is  dissolved  by  an  excess  of  the  alkali, 
the  alkaline  solution  being  miscible  with  water,  but  not  with  alcohol.  Mr.  W.  W.  Moorhead 
(1877)  proposed  a glycerite  of  bismuth  nitrate , using  2 troyounces  of  the  crystals  to  sufficient 
glycerin  to  make  8 fluidounces.  The  salt  may  thus  be  prescribed  in  a perfect  solution,  which 
may  be  diluted  by  the  patient  when  using  it. 

3.  Bismuthi  oxychloridum. — Bismuth  oxychloride,  Bismuthyl  chloride,^.;  Oxychlorure  de 
bismuth,  Fr. ; Wismuthoxychlorid,  G.  BiOCl.  Mol.  weight  260.23. — It  is  prepared  by  slowly 
pouring  a solution  of  bismuth  in  nitric  acid  into  a solution  of  sodium  chloride.  It  is  a white 
powder  known  as  pearl  white , and  in  France,  like  bismuth  subnitrate,  as  blanc  defard.  When 
heated  in  closed  vessels  it  turns  yellow  and  melts  without  decomposition,  but  on  being  heated  in 


BISMUTH!  SUBNITRAS. 


345 


the  air  chlorine  is  thrown  off  and  bismuthous  oxide  left.  The  salt  is  insoluble  in  water,  but 
readily  soluble  in  acid.  It  has  occasionally  been  sold  as  oxide  of  bismuth. 

4.  Bismuthi  subiodidum.— Bismuth  subiodide,  Bismuthyl  iodide,  E. ; Oxyiodure  de  bismuth, 
Fr.;  Basisches  Wismuthjodid,  G.  BiOI.  Mol.  weight  351.39— Bismuth  subiodide  is  obtained 
when  an  aqueous  suspension  of  bismuth  subnitrate  is  boiled  with  potassium  iodide,  or  when  a 
solution  of  bismuth  nitrate,  in  just  sufficient  water  to  prevent  precipitation,  is  warmed  with  potas- 
sium iodide.  In  the  first  case  the  resulting  compound  will  be  of  a crystalline  character,  while  in 
the  second  it  is  obtained  as  a bulky  amorphous  powder.  The  exact  composition  of  bismuth 
subiodide  of  course  depends  upon  the  method  employed  ; Moerk  claims  to  produce  a pure  article 
by  boiling  20  Gm.  of  bismuth  subnitrate  with  200  Cc.  of  water  and  1 Cc.  of  nitric  acid  (sp.  gr. 
L42)  for  ten  minutes,  in  order  to  convert  all  oxide  present  into  subnitrate ; then  add  12  Gm.  of 
potassium  iodide  dissolved  in  100  Cc.  of  water ; boil  the  mixture  for  half  an  hour,  filter  and  wash 
until  the  washings  cease  to  react  with  silver  nitrate.  Finally,  dry  below  100°  C.  (212°  F.).  Greene 
claims  that  by  his  method  the  powder  obtained  contains  99.44  per  cent,  of  true  bismuth  sub- 
iodide and  only  traces  of  subnitrate  ; it  is  as  follows  : Dissolve  409  grains  of  bismuth  subnitrate 
in  1 fluidounce  of  nitric  acid  with  aid  of  heat,  and  dilute  the  solution  carefully  with  water  until 
a faint  opalescence  remains;  add  to  this  221  grains  of  potassium  iodide  dissolved  in  16  fluid- 
ounces  of  cold  water ; agitate  well  and  apply  heat,  but  not  to  the  boiling-point  (about  80°  or  85° 
C.?) ; the  precipitate  formed  is  washed  by  decantation,  drained,  and  dried  at  or  below  100°  C. 
(212°  F.).  Bismuth  subiodide  occurs  as  a bright-red  or  brownish-red  powder,  and  is  used  either 
plain  for  dusting  purposes  or  in  form  of  an  ointment. 

5.  Bismuthi  phosphas. — Bismuth  phosphate  is  prepared  by  dissolving  5 parts  of  the  subnitrate 
in  sufficient  nitric  acid,  and  pouring  this  solution  slowly  into  a solution  of  6 parts  of  sodium 
phosphate.  It  is  a white  powder,  resembling  the  oxychloride. 

6.  Bismuthi  lactas. — Bismuth  lactate  is  prepared  by  boiling  10  parts  of  the  subnitrate  with 
an  excess  of  caustic  soda,  washing  the  oxide  well  with  water,  and  while  still  moist  mixing  it 
with  9 parts  of  lactic  acid ; the  mixture  is  digested,  and  dried  in  the  water-bath. 

7.  Bismuthi  salicylas. — Bismuth  salicylate , which  was  formerly  prepared  by  precipitating  a 
solution  of  bismuth  nitrate  in  glycerin  with  a concentrated  solution  of  sodium  salicylate  is  best 
made,  according  to  Nagelvoort,  by  following  Duyk’s  process,  slightly  modified  as  to  temperature  : 
5U0  Gm.  of  pure  bismuth  subnitrate  are  digested  with  1000  Cc.  of  distilled  water  for  two  days, 
with  frequent  stirring,  in  a warm  place ; 50  Cc.  of  strong  ammonia-water  are  now  added,  the 
liquid  drawn  off,  and  the  residue,  Bi203,  washed  until  free  from  nitric  acid  ; the  moist  oxide  is 
transferred  to  a wide-mouthed  bottle,  a little  distilled  water  and  125  Gm.  of  salicylic  acid  are 
added,  and  the  mixture  digested  at  ordinary  room  temperature,  with  frequent  stirring,  for  at 
least  forty-eight  hours.  The  bismuth  salicylate  is  then  washed  with  small  quantities  of  cold 
water  until  all  free  acid  has  been  removed,  and  the  product  finally  dried  at  a low  temperature 
and  kept  in  a dark  place.  As  thus  prepared  the  salt  occurs  as  a cream-colored,  odorless,  and 
tasteless  amorphous  powder,  free  from  uncombined  salicylic  acid  and  from  bismuth  subnitrate. 
It  is  a basic  compound,  having  the  composition  Bi(C7H503)3.Bi203. 

8.  Bismuth  subgallate  (Dermatol)  is  prepared  by  dissolving  15  parts  of  bismuth  subnitrate 
in  30  parts  of  glacial  acetic  acid,  adding  200  to  250  parts  of  water,  and  filtering.  To  the  filtrate 
add  with  constant  stirring  a warm  solution  of  5 parts  of  gallic  acid  in  200  or  250  parts  of  water. 
The  resulting  precipitate  is  separated  by  decantation  and  washed  until  free  from  nitric  acid  ; it 
is  then  dried  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.).  Bismuth  subgallate  occurs  as  an  impalpable  saffron-yellow, 
odorless  powder,  permanent  in  the  air  and  insoluble  in  all  ordinary  solvents.  It  wras  introduced 
as  a substitute  for  iodoform,  and  has  been  used  as  a dusting  powder  and  in  various  forms  of 
ointments  alone  or  combined  with  zinc  oxide. 

9.  Bismuthi  tannas. — Bismuthum  tannicum,  Tannas  bismuthicus. — Bismuth  tannate,  E.;  Tan- 
nate  de  bismuth,  Fr. ; Wismuthtannat,  G. — 14  parts  of  crystallized  bismuth  nitrate  are  dis- 
solved in  the  least  possible  quantity  of  nitric  acid,  previously  diluted  with  half  its  w eight  of 
water ; the  solution  is  poured  into  an  excess  of  solution  of  soda,  the  precipitate  well  wTashed 
with  water  until  the  wrashings  cease  to  have  an  alkaline  reaction,  and  the  moist  precipitate  trit- 
urated w'ith  20  parts  of  tannin  diluted  with  wrater,  strained  through  muslin,  and  dried  with  the 
aid  of  a moderate  heat.  This  is  Cap’s  process,  proposed  in  1860 ; in  the  first  part  of  it  bismuth 
hydroxide  is  formed  from  the  nitrate  by  decomposing  it  with  sodium  hydroxide  ; the  precipitate 
is  then  directly  combined  wfith  tannic  acid,  with  wfiiich  it  should  be  left  in  contact  for  an  hour  or 
two  before  being  washed  and  dried.  It  forms  a light-yellow  powder  which  is  insoluble  in  wrater 
and  alcohol,  and  is  entirely  tasteless.  When  thoroughly  dried  its  composition  represents  53  per 
cent,  of  bismuth  oxide  and  47  of  tannin. 

10.  Bismuthi  valerianas. — Bismuthum  valerianicum,  Yalerianus  bismuthicus. — Bismuth  vale- 
rianate, E. ; Valerianate  de  bismuth,  Fr. ; Wismuthvalerianat,  G. — A solution  of  bismuth  nitrate 
in  the  smallest  quantity  of  nitric  acid,  previously  diluted  wfith  half  its  weight  of  wrater,  is  pre- 
cipitated by  a rather  concentrated  solution  of  sodium  valerianate  ; the  precipitate  is  washed  with 
water,  to  which  some  valerianic  acid  has  been  added,  until  the  wrashings,  on  evaporation, 
leave  no  residue,  and  afterward  dried.  Or  50  parts  of  bismuth  subnitrate  are  digested  for  four 
hours  with  150  parts  of  ammonia  diluted  with  the  same  weight  of  water ; the  sediment,  consist- 
ing of  bismuth  hydroxide,  is  well  washed  with  wrater,  drained,  transferred  to  a mortar,  and  well 
triturated  with  15  parts  of  concentrated  valerianic  acid,  30  parts  of  alcohol  being  gradually 
added  during  the  trituration.  It  is  afterwTard  collected  upon  a filter  and  dried  at  the  ordinary 
temperature.  Prepared  by  either  process,  it  is  a white  amorphous  powrder  having  a decided 


346 


BISMUTH 1 SUBRITBAS. 


odor  of  valerianic  acid,  insoluble  in  water  and  alcohol,  soluble  in  nitric  and  in  sulphuric  acid ; 
the  latter  solution  does  not  acquire  a black  color  on  the  addition  of  ferrous  sulphate  (absence  of 
nitrate).  Other  impurities  may  be  detected  by  the  same  tests  as  in  the  bismuth  subnitrate. 

Action  and  Uses. — There  is  no  doubt  that,  practically,  subnitrate  of  bismuth  is 
insoluble  in  the  gastro-intestinal  juices.  It  appears  to  act  upon  the  stomach  and  bowels 
simply  by  coating  their  mucous  membrane  with  a virtually  insoluble  and  at  the  same 
time  perfectly  unirritating  substance,  which  protects  it  against  the  action  of  the  contents 
of  these  viscera,  and  at  the  same  time  probably  restrains  their  secretion  and  absorbs  the 
excess  of  free  acids  present.  Pure  subnitrate  of  bismuth,  taken  internally,  occasions  no 
morbid  symptoms,  but  confines  the  bowels  and  blackens  and  deodorizes  the  feces.  It  is 
not,  properly  speaking,  an  astringent,  and  it  does  not  coagulate  mucus.  After  death  in 
persons  who  have  been  using  it  freely  the  gastric  mucous  membrane  presents  no  peculiari- 
ties, but  that  of  the  small  intestine  is  in  parts  bluish,  and  the  colon  and  rectum  are 
stained  black  by  a reaction  of  the  bismuth  with  the  sulphurous  compounds  present. 

Subnitrate  of  bismuth  was  originally  employed  to  relieve  certain  chronic  and  painful 
affections  of  the  stomach,  which  appear  to  have  been  gastralgia  and  simple  ulcer  of  that 
organ.  It  is  probable  that  the  latter  was  the  disease  most  commonly  treated  successfully, 
and  that  it  was  sometimes  associated  with  neuralgia  of  the  stomach.  It  is  certain  that 
pure  gastralgia  is  not  peculiarly  benefited  by  bismuth,  and  that  simple  ulcer  is  signally 
improved  by  it.  If  the  pain  is  greatest  upon  taking  food,  there  is  probably  ulcer ; if 
the  paroxysms  occur  when  the  stomach  is  empty,  they  are  probably  neuralgic.  Ulcerated 
cancer  of  the  stomach  is  favorably  influenced  by  subnitrate  of  bismuth,  which,  as  in 
simple  ulcer,  forms  a covering  to  the  raw  and  irritable  surface,  and  thereby  lessens  pain 
and  vomiting.  It  is  beneficial  in  cases  of  chronic  gastric  catarrh  due  to  coarse  food  or 
excessive  eating,  and  which  are  attended  by  a feverish  condition,  a coated  tongue,  and  an 
enlargement  of  the  papillae.  In  almost  every  form  of  diarrhoea  caused  by  irritation  or 
ulceration  of  the  intestinal  coats  this  medicine  is  of  the  utmost  service — in  all  cases, 
indeed,  for  which  chalk  has  for  a long  time  been  employed.  The  premonitory  diarrhoea 
of  cholera  is  generally  under  its  control  when  it  is  given  in  doses  of  not  less  than  30  or 
40  grains,  and  the  same  is  true  of  smaller  doses  in  cholera  infantum.  There  is  no  better 
agent  for  controlling  the  diarrhoea  of  typhoid  fever  when  it  becomes  excessive  at  any 
period  of  the  disease,  but  especially  during  its  decline ; and  it  is  useful  in  tuberculous 
diarrhoea — provided  that  the  doses  of  the  medicine  are  large — and  in  all  forms  indeed  of 
chronic  diarrhoea  and  chronic  dysentery.  In  acute  as  well  as  in  chronic  dysentery  enemas 
composed  of  mucilage  in  which  bismuth  is  suspended  are  very  soothing  to  the  inflamed 
and  ulcerated  bowel. 

As  a topical  application  subnitrate  of  bismuth  is  useful  whenever  a neutral  protective 
and  absorbent,  and  by  the  latter  quality  made  somewhat  astringent,  powder  is  required. 
Nothing  is  superior  to  it  as  an  application  to  superficial  abrasions  and  ulcerations,  as  in 
intertrigo , slight  and  even  blistered  burns , confluent  variola , eczema , zona,  fissures  of  the 
anus,  prolapsus  ani  or  p.  vaginae , chapjied.  nipples , lips,  and  hands , and  leucorrhoea.  The 
virtues  exhibited  by  it  in  these  affections  has  also  been  shown  when  it  was  used  as  a 
dressing  for  surgical  and  other  wounds , for  which  purpose  it  was  employed  by  Kocher  in 
1883,  and  afterward  by  See,  Gosselin,  Heret,  and  others  (Archives  gen.,  Jan.  1886,  p.  1). 
It  was  applied  suspended  in  water  or  by  insufflation  as  a dry  powder,  with  the  addition 
of  the  usual  antiseptic  dressing.  But  the  cases  of  poisoning  produced  by  it  have  caused 
this  mode  of  treatment  to  be  abandoned  for  large  wounds.  In  vaginal  leucorrhoea 
powdered  bismuth  on  a roll  of  charpie  should  be  introduced  into  the  vagina  through  a 
speculum,  and  withdrawn  after  six  or  eight  hours.  Cancrum  oris  following  an  epidemic 
of  measles  was  found  to  improve  under  the  use  of  subnitrate  of  bismuth  better  than 
after  any  other  topical  measures  (Macguire,  Med.  Record,  xxxiii.  113),  showing  the 
advantage  of  a protective  treatment.  A similar  result  is  stated  to  have  attended  this 
method  in  the  management  of  recent  wounds  (Riedel,  Am.  Jour,  of  Med.  Sci.,  July, 
1883,  p.  250).  It  is  an  efficient  remedy  for  acute  coryza  when  repeatedly  and  thoroughly 
snuffed  into  the  nostrils.  Its  efficacy  may  be  increased  by  associating  with  it  morphine 
and  powdered  gum  arabic  ; e.  g.  muriate  of  morphine  gr.  j,  powdered  gum  arabic  gj,  sub- 
nitrate of  bismuth  giij.  In  chronic  coryza  the  following  powder  has  been  strongly 
recommended  as  a snuff : subnitrate  of  bismuth  4 parts,  liquorice-powder  8 parts,  iodide 
of  sulphur  30  parts.  In  most  of  these  affections  the  cure  will  be  hastened  by  associat- 
ing with  the  bismuth  oxide  of  zinc  in  the  proportion  of  about  one-fourth.  In  some  cases 
of  scrofulous  ozaena  cures  have  been  effected  by  forcibly  snuffing  the  finely-powdered 
subnitrate  into  the  nostrils  and  daily  cleansing  the  passages  by  means  of  the  douche. 


BISMUTH  I SUBNITRAS. 


347 


Sometimes  it  is  topically  applied  suspended  in  water,  which  appears  to  be  irrational ; and 
sometimes  in  glycerin,  which  is  less  so,  since  the  glycerin,  if  pure,  tends  to  deprive  the 
tissues  of  their  moisture.  The  powdered  salt  is  an  efficient  palliative  of  excessive  or 
fetid  sweats  of  the  feet  and  other  parts.  A mixture  of  2 parts  of  this  preparation  and 
1 part  of  powdered  benzoin  has  been  proposed  for  the  treatment  of  whooping  cough  by 
insufflation.  Like  other  protectives  and  sedatives,  it  may  lessen  the  frequency  of  the  par- 
oxysms when  used  in  this  manner. 

A modification  of  Bbttger’s  test  for  diabetic  sugar  has  been  proposed  by  W.  L.  Dud- 
ley, as  follows : “ Dissolve  subnitrate  of  bismuth  in  the  least  possible  quantity  of  chem- 
ically pure  nitric  acid,  and  add  to  it  an  equal  amount  of  acetic  acid  of  ordinary  strength ; 
dilute  to  eight  or  ten  times  its  volume,  and  filter  if  necessary.  To  the  solution  to  be 
tested  add  sufficient  sodium  hydrate  to  render  it  strongly  alkaline,  then  add  a drop  or 
two  of  the  bismuth  solution  ; heat  to  boiling,  and  continue  the  boiling  for  twenty  or 
thirty  seconds.  If  sugar  is  present,  the  white  flocculent  precipitate  which  is  formed  on 
the  addition  of  the  bismuth  solution  to  the  alkaline  liquid  will  become  gray  or  black  ” 
(Amer.  Chem.  Jour.,  1880).  Loewe  employs  the  following  formula  for  the  test  solution  : 
“ Subnitrate  of  bismuth  15  Gm. ; dissolve  in  pure  glycerin  30  Gm. ; solution  of  sodium 
hydrate  (sp.  gr.  1.34)  60  to  70  Ccm. ; dilute  with  water  150  to  160  Ccm. ; heat  to  212° 
F.”  ( Practitioner , xxvi.  291). 

The  dose  of  subnitrate  of  bismuth  varies  from  Gm.  0.20—0.25  (gr.  iij-iv)  in  infantile 
cases  to  a teaspoonful  for  adults,  but  the  average  dose  for  adults  may  be  stated  at  Gm. 
0.60  (gr.  x).  It  is  best  given  with  water  alone  and  when  the  stomach  is  empty.  Milk, 
soup,  and  similar  liquids  as  vehicles  tend  to  envelop  the  medicine,  and  to  that  extent 
neutralize  its  action. 

Phosphate  of  bismuth  has  been  proposed  (by  Tedenat)  as  superior  to  all  the  other 
bismuth  compounds,  because  it  is  more  insoluble  than  they  are.  It  may  be  given  in 
somewhat  smaller  doses  than  the  subnitrate  (Bull,  de  Therap.,  xcviii.  427). 

Salicylate  of  bismuth  has  been  credited  not  only  with  moderating  and  curing,  but 
even  with  aborting,  typhoid  fever  (Huchard),  but  upon  insufficient  grounds.  No  doubt  it 
moderates  the  diarrhoea  and  corrects  the  fetor  of  the  stools  in  this  disease,  and  if  largely 
given  may  reduce  the  temperature  and  pulse-rate ; but  that  it  shortens  the  disease  or 
lessens  its  mortality  no  proof  exists.  It  has  also  been  lauded  in  various  diarrhoeal  and 
painful  disorders  of  the  digestive  tube  by  Solger  ( Deut . med.  Wochensch.,  No.  22,  1886; 
and  Ehring.  Therap.  Gaz .,  xii.  1840),  but  nothing  has  been  adduced  to  show  its  superior- 
ity to  the  subnitrate. 

Sub-benzoate  of  bismuth  is  stated  to  be  a mild  escharotic  (Med.  News , li.  653). 

Subiodide  of  bismuth  has  been  recommended  by  Dr.  Reynolds  (Med.  News , xlix. 
393),  Chassaignac  (N.  Orleans  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  July,  1887),  as  an  efficient  substi- 
tute for  the  subnitrate  in  all  of  the  affections  mentioned  in  this  article,  and  as  of  pecu- 
liar value  in  the  treatment  of  chronic  ulcers.  A writer  who  claims  that  there  is  no  danger 
from  its  absorption,  because  it  is  harmless  even  when  taken  by  the  mouth,  overlooks 
the  facts  which  have  been  established  respecting  the  subnitrate.  Anaesthetic  virtues 
have  been  attributed  to  it. 

Subgallate  of  bismuth  (dermatol),  like  its  congeners,  has  been  found  useful  as  an 
absorbent,  protective,  and  astringent  for  many  secreting  surfaces,  such  as  are  presented 
in  eczema , herpes , ulcers , burns , wounds , abscesses , etc.,  when  their  inflammatory  stage  has 
passed  and  the  affected  parts  require  only  protection  for  their  cure.  It  is  non-poisonous 
and  is  entirely  unirritating,  and,  like  other  salts  of  bismuth,  has  been  found  useful  in  chronic 
diarrhoea  and  dysentery.  As  an  internal  medicine  its  dose  need  not  be  strictly  measured. 
(Compare  Stone,  Med.  Comment.  Mass.  Med.  Soc.,  xv.  687.) 

Tannate  of  bismuth  is  astringent,  and  was  at  one  time  used  internally  in  diar- 
rhoea, and  topically  in  gonorrhoea,  leucorrhoea,  ophthalmia , etc.  It  is  now  very  seldom 
employed. 

There  is  not  sufficient  reason  for  believing  that  valerianate  of  bismuth  is  of  the 
least  therapeutical  value. 


BOLDUS.— Boldo. 

Boldo,  Fr.,  G. 

The  leaves  of  Peumus  Boldus,  Molina , s.  Ruizia  (Peumus,  Persoon,  Boldoa,  C.  Gay') 
fragrans,  Ruiz  and  Pavon.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 217. 

Nat.  Ord. — Monimiaceae, 


348 


BOLD  US. 


Origin. — Boldo-  or  boldu-leaves  are  derived  from  a tall  evergreen  dioecious  shrub 
which  is  a native  of  Chili,  and  is  there  frequently  cultivated  in  gardens.  It  has  lax 
cymes  of  sweet-scented,  apetalous,  greenish-yellow  flowers,  the  pistillate  ones  producing 
about  three  yellowish  drupes  of  the  size  of  a pea  and  containing  a single  albuminous 
seed.  The  bark  is  used  in  tanning  and  the  wood  is  esteemed  for  charcoal-making. 

Description. — The  leaves  are  opposite,  on  short  petioles,  coriaceous,  about  5 Cm. 
(2  inches)  long,  broadly  oval  or  oval-oblong,  very  obtuse  at  the  apex,  entire  or  somewhat 
undulate  on  the  margin,  rough  on  both  sides,  glossy  above  and  pale  and  hairy  beneath. 
The  dried  leaves  are  often  reddish-brown,  and  have  a fragrant  odor  and  a refreshing  aro- 
matic pungent  taste. 

Constituents. — Claude  Yerne  (1875)  obtained  from  the  leaves  2 per  cent,  of  volatile 
oil,  which  after  rectification  is  yellow,  colored  hyacinth-red  by  sulphuric  acid,  violet  by 
nitric  acid,  red  by  potassa,  and  is  decolorized  by  hydrochloric  acid ; it  is  freely  soluble  in 
alcohol,  commences  to  boil  at  185°  C.  (365°  F.),  and  contains  no  aldehyde.  Boldo-leaves 
also  contain  about  per  cent,  of  the  alkaloid  boldine , discovered  by  Bourgoin  and  Yerne 
(1873)  ; it  is  best  extracted  with  acetic  acid,  imparts  to  water  a bitter  taste,  is  soluble  in 
alcohol,  ether,  chloroform,  benzene,  and  caustic  alkalies,  and  is  colored  red  by  nitric  and 
sulfuric  acids.  Besides  some  tannin  and  aromatic  resinous 
compounds  the  other  constituents  do  not  possess  any  medicinal 
importance. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Yerne  has  proposed  a tincture  of 
boldo , made  with  20  parts  of  the  leaves  and  100  parts  of  60  per 
cent,  alcohol ; wine  of  boldo , made  with  3 parts  of  the  leaves  and 
100  of  Madeira  wine  ; an  aqueous  and  an  alcoholic  extract  of  boldo, 
the  latter  prepared  by  evaporating  the  tincture. 

Allied  Plants. — Atherosperma  moschata,  Labillardi&re , an  Austra- 
lian tree,  known  there  as  sassafras  tree , has  in  all  parts  an  odor  resem- 
bling somewhat  that  of  nutmeg  ; the  bark,  which  is  used  as  an  antiscor- 
butic and  tonic,  contains  tannin  and  the  bitter  alkaloid  atherospermine, 
which  is  a white  amorphous  powder  readily  soluble  in  alcohol  and 
chloroform,  but  dissolving  sparingly  in  ether  ; its  colorless  solution  in 
sulphuric  acid  becomes  green  with  potassium  chromate  (Zeyer,  1861). 
The  allied  South  American  genera,  Citrosma  and  Laurellia,  are  highly 
aromatic.  The  bark  of  these  trees  is  used  for  tanning. 

Action  and  Uses. — Like  all  plants  which  contain  an 
essential  oil,  boldo  has  been  regarded  as  an  active  stimulant  of 
the  nervous  and  circulatory  systems.  Experiments  upon  him- 
self by  Yerne  (1882)  showed  that  boldo  affects  neither  the 
circulation,  the  temperature,  nor  the  secretion  of  urine,  but 
that  it  augments  the  discharge  of  urea  {Bull,  de  Ther.,  cii.  286). 

Boldo  has  been  recommended,  in  alcoholic  or  vinous  solution,  for  anaemia , dyspepsia , 
and  general  debility , and  the  oil  has  been  proposed  for  the  relief  of  catarrh , especially  of 
the  urino-genital  organs.  The  tincture  has  been  prescribed  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.30—1.00 
(npv-xv).  Magnan  and  Juranville  have  alleged  that  in  doses  of  Gm.  2 (gr.  xxx)  boldo 
or  boldo-glucine  occasions  a tranquil  sleep  in  persons  of  excited  brain  and  in  some  cases 
of  insanity  {Ther.  Gaz .,  xii.  55)  ; and  Campenon  attributes  remarkable  efficacy  to  it  in 
cases  of  cirrhotic  enlargement  of  the  liver  {ibid.,  xiii.  756).  But  the  evidence  in  all  of 
these  cases  is  very  inadequate  and  lacks  confirmation. 

Atherospermia  moschata. — According  to  Graves  {Lancet,  Feb.  1,  1862,  p.  134), 
under  the  name  of  “ native  sassafras  ” it  has  long  been  used  by  the  early  settlers  and 
Bushmen  of  Australia  for  making  a sort  of  diet-drink  in  rheumatic  and  secondary  syphilitic 
affections.  He  used  it  in  his  own  person  in  chronic  bronchitis , and  in  less  than  twenty- 
four  hours  his  pulse  fell  from  120  to  80,  and  the  expectoration  from  being  excessive 
and  difficult  became  moderate  and  easy.  Other  physicians  employed  it  with  equal  advan- 
tage, and  subsequently  administered  the  oil  in  drop-doses  as  a sedative  of  excessive  and 
irregular  action  of  the  heart.  A decoction  made  with  an  ounce  of  the  bark  to  a pint 
of  water  and  boiled  for  ten  or  fifteen  minutes  was  administered  every  three  or  four 
hours  in  doses  of  an  ounce  or  two. 

Daphnandra  ripandula  and  D.  mirantha  have  been  studied  by  Bancroft.  Their 
actions  appear  to  be  identical.  The  extract  of  the  bark  of  the  former  plant  is  very  pois- 
onous. It  furnishes  an  alkaloid  which  is,  to  some  extent,  antagonistic  to  strychnine. 
Applied  topically,  it  paralyzes  all  muscles,  voluntary  and  involuntary  ; it  retards  putrefac- 


Fig.  40. 


Boldo-leaf,  natural  size. 


BOLUS.— BORAGO. 


349 


tion  and  deodorizes  putrid  meat ; it  checks  the  growth  of  Torula  cerevisiae  and  kills  some 
water-plants  ( Phar . Jour,  and  Trans.,  Oct.  1,  1887). 

BOLUS.— Bole. 

Bo/,  Fr. ; Bolus , G. 

Description. — This  term  is  applied  to  certain  native  aluminum  silicates,  which 
are  soft  and  unctuous  to  the  touch,  readily  adhere  to  the  moist  tongue,  and  are  easily 
scraped  with  the  knife;  they  break  with  a conchoidal  fracture,  are  insoluble  in  water, 
with  which  they  gradually  form  a pasty  mass,  do  not  effervesce  with  acids,  and  for 
medicinal  use  are  powdered  and  elutriated  with  water.  They  contain  alumina  and 
silica  in  the  approximate  proportion  of  3 to  5.  According  to  color  they  have  been 
distinguished  as — 

Bolus  alba,  P.  G.,  known  also  as  Argilla  and  terra  alba  ; it  is  of  a white  color,  and 
contains  small  quantities  of  magnesia  and  traces  of  iron. 

Bolus  armena,  s.  rubra,  Argilla  ferruginea,  or  Armenian  bole , was  formerly 
brought  from  Armenia,  but  is  at  present  obtained  in  different  parts  of  Europe.  Its 
brown-red  color  is  due  to  the  presence  of  a considerable  proportion  of  ferric  oxide. 
Terra  lemnia , formerly  employed,  differed  from  it  merely  in  being  of  a yellowish  color 
and  containing  less  iron.  After  having  been  formed  into  flattish  circular  pieces  and 
impressed  with  a seal  these  boles  constituted  the  terrae  sigillatse  which  were  formerly  in 
high  repute. 

Creta  rubra,  Rubrica  fabrilis,  red  chalk  or  reddle , is  firmer  than  the  preceding, 
contains  more  iron,  and  is  used  for  marking  on  wood  and  stone. 

Action  and  Uses. — Bole  was  very  generally  used  in  Greek  and  Roman  medicine, 
and  in  Europe  until  a quite  recent  date,  in  numberless  cases  requiring  astringent  and 
absorbent  medicines.  Of  internal  affections  for  which  it  was  employed  may  be  mentioned 
menorrhagia , haemoptysis , chronic  bronchitis , diarrhoea , and  dysentery.  Topically,  it  was 
applied  in  leucorrhoea , prolapsus  ani , sore  nipples , aphthae , intertrigo , burns , ulcers , erysipelas , 
etc.  The  small  proportion  of  iron  contained  in  it  may  have  increased  its  efficacy.  Dose, 
Gm.  0.30-0.60  (gr.  v— x). 


BORAGO.— Borage. 

Bourrache , Fr. ; Borasch , Boretsch , G. ; Borraja , Sp. 

Borago  officinalis,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Boraginaceae. 

Description. — Borage  is  an  erect  hispid  annual  indigenous  to  the  Levant,  but  natu- 
ralized in  Southern  and  Middle  Europe  and  frequently  cultivated  in  gardens.  It  has  a 
white  fleshy  root  and  an  erect  branching  stem  .3-6  M.  (1  or  2 feet)  high.  The  leaves 
are  oval  or  obovate,  alternate — the  lower  ones  petiolate,  entire,  or  wavy  on  the  margin, 
the  upper  side  and  the  veins  beneath  with  stiff  hairs.  The  flowers  are  in  terminal  racemes 
with  ovate  bracts,  have  a five-parted  calyx,  and  a sky-blue  or  reddish  corolla,  which  is 
rotate,  closed  in  the  throat  by  five  emarginate  appendages,  and  has  five  stamens.  The 
fruit  consists  of  four  brownish-black  ovate  roughish  nutlets,  which  are  excavated  at  the 
base.  The  fresh  plant  has  a slight  cucumber-like  odor  and  a saline  taste.  The  herb  is 
used  as  a salad  and  occasionally  employed  in  medicine  ; the  root  and  flowers  have  like- 
wise been  used. 

Constituents. — Borage  has  been  analyzed  by  Lampadius  and  Braconnot,  who  found 
considerable  mucilage,  a little  resin,  and  potassium  and  calcium  combined  with  organic 
and  mineral  acids.  Braconnot  obtained  from  the  inspissated  juice  30  per  cent,  of  salts; 
AValtl  (1829)  from  the  dry  herb  2 to  3 per  cent,  of  potassium  nitrate. 

Allied  Plants. — Cynoglossum  officinale,  Linnt. — Hound’s  tongue,  E. ; Langue  de  chien,  Fr.; 
Ilundszunge,  G. — A biennial  European  plant  naturalized  in  North  America.  The  stem  is  2 feet 
(.6  M.)  high ; the  leaves  are  hairy,  elliptic,  and  petiolate,  the  upper  ones  lanceolate,  sessile, 
and  somewhat  clasping ; the  flowers  are  brownish-red  and  have  a short,  white  tube ; the  ovate 
nutlets  are  covered  with  short,  hooked  prickles.  The  fresh  plant  has  a disagreeable  odor ; the 
taste  is  mucilaginous  and  slightly  bitter. 

Pulmonari  a officinalis,  Limit:. — Lungwort,  j E. ; Pulmonaire,  Fr. ; Lungenkraut,  G. — A 
perennial  European  plant  with  a simple  hairy  stem  and  rough  hairy  entire  leaves,  often 
marked  with  white  spots,  and  with  reddish  or  purple  nodding  flowers.  The  radical  leaves 
are  ovate-cordate,  pointed,  and  petiolate ; the  stem-leaves  are  spatulate  or  ovate,  the  upper 
ones  spgsile.  The  herb  is  inodorous,  and  has  a mucilaginous  somewhat  astringent  taste. 


350 


BROMUM. 


Mertensia  (Pulmonaria,  Linn4 ) virginica,  De  Candolle. — Virginia  lungwort,  Cowslip,  E. — 
It  grows  from  New  York  westward,  and  southward  to  Texas,  is  a smooth  herb  1 or  2 feet  (.3  or 
.6  M.)  high,  and  has  obovate-oblong  or  elliptical  sessile  leaves,  the  lower  ones  narrowed  into  a 
petiole,  and  corymbose  racemes  of  flowers,  with  a purple-blue  or  white  corolla  about  an  inch 
(25  Mm.)  in  length  and  four  times  as  long  as  the  calyx. 

Echium  vulgare,  Linnt. — Viper’s  bugloss,  Blueweed,  E. ; Viperine,  Fr.;  Natterkopf,  G. — 
It  is  a common  European  perennial,  and  is  naturalized  in  North  America.  It  is  rough-hairy, 
about  2 feet  (.6  M.)  high,  and  has  linear-lanceolate  leaves  and  showy  blue  flowers  in  axillary  clusters, 
forming  an  elongated  terminal  raceme.  It  has  very  little  odor  and  a mucilaginous  taste.  Both 
the  herb  and  the  long,  nearly  simple,  brown,  and  internally  white  fleshy  root  have  been 
employed. 

Onosma  echioides,  Lamarck. — Lotwurz,  G. — A perennial  plant  indigenous  to  Southern 
Europe.  The  stem  is  rough  hairy  and  about  45  Cm.  (1-1 J feet)  high  ; the  leaves  vary  from 
linear  lanceolate  to  ovate-lanceolate,  the  latter  being  placed  toward  the  top  of  the  stem.  The 
flowers  are  first  white,  and  later  yellow.  The  conical  root  is  internally  wrhitish,  and  the  bark  is 
dark-red,  externally  black.  The  root  is  used  for  coloring  in  place  of  alkanet. 

Alkanna  (Anchusa,  LinnS)  tinctoria,  Tausch. — Alkanet,  E. ; Orcannette,  Fr. ; Alkanna- 
wurzel,  G. — This  perennial  herb,  indigenous  to  Western  Asia  and  South-eastern  Europe,  is 
about  30  Cm.  (1  foot)  high,  has  nearly  sessile  flowers  with  a whitish  corolla-tube,  purplish 
throat,  and  blue  margin.  The  root  as  found  in  the  market  is  30- Cm.  (a  foot)  or  less  in  length, 
and  about  as  thick  as  a finger,  several-headed,  and  often  crowned  by  whitish  leaf-remnants. 
The  soft  bark  easily  separates  into  three  layers,  has  a dark  purplish  color  like  the  medullary 
rays,  and  covers  a harder,  yellowish,  irregularly  twisted,  and  spongy  wood.  It  is  principally 
used  for  coloring  oils  and  pomades,  due  to  the  coloring-matter,  anchusic  acid,  which  it  con- 
tains. 

Anchusa  officinalis,  Linn 6. — Ox-tongue,  Bugloss,  E. — The  plant  is  about  45  Cm.  (1 J feet) 
high,  rough  hairy.  The  leaves  are  lanceolate  to  ovate-lanceolate,  sessile  or  petiolate.  The 
almost  sessile  flowers  are  arranged  in  a cyme  and  possess  a purplish-blue  corolla.  The  root 
resembles  alkanet  in  shape,  but  is  externally  blackish-brown,  internally  white.  The  herb  and 
root,  which  was  formerly  used  medicinally,  have  an  insipid,  mucilaginous  taste. 

Lawsonia  alba,  Lamarck  (Lythrarieae),  is  the  plant  yielding  the  Oriental  dyestuff  alhenna. 
In  Oriental  countries  an  infusion  of  the  broadly  lanceolate  or  elliptical  leaves  is  used  for  dyeing 
the  finger-  and  toe-nails  orange-red. 

Action  and.  Uses. — The  virtues  of  borage,  which  are  chiefly  those  of  an 
emollient  and  protective,  it  owes  to  the  mucilage  it  contains,  while  its  saline  elements 
render  it  somewhat  diuretic  when  its  infusion  is  freely  used.  In  France  especially  it  is 
much  employed  in  acute  febrile  affections  and  in  pulmonary  catarrhs.  The  infusion  is 
made  with  from  Gm.  4-12  (^j-iij)  in  a pint  of  water.  A decoction  of  the  whole  plant 
and  a fomentation  prepared  with  the  flowers  are  used  in  local  inflammations. 

Cynoglossum  in  a fresh  state  gives  off  an  exhalation  which  has  produced  acro-narcotic 
effects,  and  the  leaves  are  a popular  remedy  for  superficial  burns , bruises , abrasions , etc., 
and  for  glandular  and  other  local  swellings.  Pulmonaria  is  a lenitive  and  expectorant, 
and  its  dried  leaves  are  somewhat  astringent.  It  is  extensively  used  in  France  as  an 
ingredient  of  tisanes  for  coughs  in  various  pulmonary  affections.  Its  name  is,  indeed, 
derived  from  such  uses  of  the  plant.  Mertensia  has  similar  properties,  and  Echium  vul- 
gare is,  at  the  same  time,  diuretic  by  means  of  its  potassium  and  other  salts. 

Bugloss  is  said  to  have  the  same  medicinal  properties  as  borage  (Borago  officinalis), 
which  are  simply  those  of  an  emollient  which  becomes  diaphoretic  or  diuretic  according 
to  the  temperature  and  the  quantity  of  the  infusion  in  which  it  is  administered.  It  is 
not  used  in  this  country.  Alkanet-root  has  no  medicinal  virtues  ; its  coloring  matter  is 
harmless. 

BROMUM,  77.  8.,  Br.,  B.  G.— Bromine. 

Brominium. — Brome , Fr. ; Brom.  G. 

Symbol  Br.  Atomicity  univalent.  Atomic  weight  79.76. 

A liquid,  non-metallic  element  obtained  from  sea-water  and  from  saline  springs. 
Origin  and  Preparation. — Bromine  was  discovered  by  Balard  (1826)  in  the 
mother-liquor  obtained  in  the  preparation  of  common  salt  from  the  water  of  the  Mediter- 
ranean ; he  also  investigated  its  chemical  properties,  and  proved  its  close  analogy  to 
chlorine  and  iodine.  Bromine  does  not  exist  in  the  free  state,  but  is  found  widely  dis- 
tributed in  nature,  the  bromides  usually  accompanying  chlorides.  It  is  more  particularly 
found  in  sea-water,  in  the  waters  of  Kreuznach,  Kissingen,  and  other  mineral  springs,  but 
is  now  obtained  in  considerable  quantities  from  the  mother-liquors  of  many  salt-works  in 
the  United  States  and  at  Stassfurth,  Germany.  These  mother-liquors,  which  have  been 
freed  by  crystallization  as  much  as  possible  from  other  salts,  chlorides,  and  sulphates, 


BROMTJM. 


351 


contain  the  bromine,  usually  in  combination  with  magnesium  or  calcium.  These  com- 
pounds are  decomposed  either  by  heating  their  solution  with  black  manganese  oxide  and 
hydrochloric  acid,  or  by  warming  it  to  between  45°  and  50°  C.  (113°  and  122°  F.)  while 
chlorine  gas  is  being  passed  into  it ; the  bromides  are  at  once  decomposed  ; MgBr2  -f  Cl2 
forms  MgCl2  -f-  Br2.  The  bromine  volatilizes,  and  is  condensed  under  a small  quantity 
of  water,  which  is  contained  in  a deep  Woulf’s  bottle  kept  cool  by  water,  while  that  por- 
tion of  bromine  which  escapes  condensation  is  conducted  into  a solution  of  caustic 
potassa  contained  in  an  open  bottle ; this  solution,  when  it  has  nearly  lost  its  alkaline 
reaction,  is  subsequently  utilized  for  the  preparation  of  potassium  bromide.  The  moth- 
er-liquors, as  obtained  in  Western  Pennsylvania  and  West  Virginia,  yield  about  2 per 
cent,  of  bromine,  or  the  brine  about  1 pound  of  bromine  to  13  bushels  of  salt.  The 
production  of  the  Ohio  and  Kanawha  valleys  amounts  to  about  130,000  pounds  of  bro- 
mine annually,  in  addition  to  which  from  800  to  1000  pounds  are  manufactured  in 
Pennsylvania  (S.  S.  Garrigues,  1873).  According  to  Wellcome  (1877),  about  1000 
pounds  are  daily  manufactured  in  the  United  States.  W.  J.  M.  Gordon  (1883)  gives 
the  annual  production  in  this  country  at  between  450,000  and  500,000  pounds. 

Properties. — It  is  a heavy,  brownish-red,  mobile  and  very  volatile  liquid,  exhaling 
at  the  ordinary  temperature  deep  orange-red  vapors,  which  are  highly  irritating  to  the 
eyes  and  lungs,  and  on  being  conducted  into  a flame  impart  to  it  a green  color.  Its  odor, 
which  is  suggestive  of  chlorine  and  iodine,  is  suffocating  and  disagreeable,  hence  its 
name  (from  / 3pa>fws , a stench).  It  boils  at  63°  C.  (145.4°  F.)  (Pierre) ; Balard  and 
others  gave  the  boiling-point  as  low  as  47°  C.  (117°  F.).  At  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  its  spe- 
cific gravity  is  2.99,  and  at  the  freezing-point  of  water  3.187.  It  congeals  at  about 
— 25°  C.  ( — 12°  F.),  at  the  same  time  increasing  its  volume  about  6 per  cent.  It  destroys 
cork,  wood,  etc.,  bleaches  litmus  and  other  coloring  principles,  and  alters  or  destroys 
most  odorous  organic  compounds.  It  dissolves  in  30  parts  of  water  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.), 
and  in  less  of  alcohol  and  ether,  with  gradual  decomposition  of  these  liquids,  the  brown- 
red,  or  if  diluted  brown-yellow,  solutions  are  bleached  rapidly  in  the  sunlight,  hydro- 
bromic  acid  being  formed.  Potassium  bromide  increases  the  solubility  of  bromine  in 
water.  Carbon  disulphide,  benzene,  and  chloroform  dissolve  bromine  freely  with  an 
orange-red  color,  and,  like  ether,  take  it  up  from  the  aqueous  solution  on  being  agitated 
with  the  latter.  When  in  contact  with  water  at  a low  temperature,  bromine  forms  a 
deep-red  hydrate,  Br2.10H2O,  crystallizing  in  octahedrons  or  in  scales,  which  at  15°  C. 
(59°  F.)  are  decomposed  into  bromine  and  water.  Bromine  and  its  solutions  color 
starch-paste  brown-yellow. 

Impurities. — Iodine  does  not  now  often  form  an  impurity  of  bromine,  but  chlorine 
is  frequently  present,  and  causes  a lowering  of  the  boiling-point.  Carbon  bromide  is 
occasionally  present  in  crude  bromine,  and  may  be  removed  by  careful  rectification,  its 
boiling-point  being  considerably  higher  than  that  of  bromine. 

Tests. — Bromine  should  completely  volatilize  by  exposure  to  air  or  to  heat  (absence 
of  salts,  etc.).  “If  bromine  be  added  to  an  excess  of  sodium  hydroxide  test-solution,  it 
should  combine  to  form  a permanently  clear  liquid,  without  the  separation  of  oily  drops 
or  the  development  of  an  odor  resembling  that  of  chloroform  (absence  of  bromoform  or 
other  organic  bromine  compounds).  If  an  aqueous  solution  of  bromine  be  shaken  with  a 
slight  excess  of  reduced  iron  until  it  becomes  nearly  colorless,  the  filtered  liquid,  on  the 
addition  of  a small  amount  of  ferric  chloride  and  of  starch  test-solution,  should  not 
assume  a blue  color  (absence  of  iodine).  If  1 Cc.  of  a saturated  aqueous  solution  of 
bromine  be  diluted  with  9 Cc.  of  water,  then  mixed  with  3 Cc.  of  ammonium  carbonate 
test-solution  and  5 Cc.  of  decinormal  silver  nitrate  solution,  and  the  whole  actively 
shaken,  the  filtered  liquid,  when  supersaturated  with  nitric  acid,  should  not  become  more 
than  opalescent,  nor  separate  a flocculent  precipitate  within  three  minutes  (absence  of 
more  than  3 per  cent,  of  chlorine).”  — U.  S. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — In  the  manufacture  of  most  of  the  medicinal  bromine 
compounds  free  bromine  is  or  may  be  employed. 

Derivative  Compounds. — Bromal,  C2HBr30.  Mol.  weight,  280.18.  This  compound  resem- 
bles chloral  in  its  chemical  nature,  and  like  it  forms  a hydrate  when  brought  in  contact  with 
water  or  an  alcoholate  with  alcohol.  It  is  obtained  when  bromine  is  slowly  added  to  absolute 
alcohol,  the  mixture  kept  cool,  and  after  twenty  hours  distilled  ; bromal  comes  over  between 
172°  and  180°  C.  (341.6°  and  356°  F.),  and  condenses  as  an  oily  liquid,  which  does  not  congeal 
at  —20°  C.  ( — 4°  F.).  It  has  a peculiar  penetrating  odor  and  a sharp,  burning  taste ; its  vapors 
are  irritating  to  the  eyes.  On  exposure  to  moist  air  it  is  converted  into  a white  crystalline  mass 
of  bromal  hydrate,  C2HBr30.II20,  which  can  be  obtained  in  large  transparent  crystals  from  its 


352 


BROMUM. 


solution  in  water ; the  hydrate  has  the  odor  and  taste  of  bromal  and  fuses  at  53.5°  C.  (128.3° 
F.).  The  alcoholate  fuses  at  44°  C.  (111.2°  F.),  is  slightly  soluble  in  water,  and  is  decomposed 
by  heat.  Bromal  is  decomposed  by  alkali  hydroxides,  forming  bromoform  and  alkali  formate. 
A mixture  of  bromal  hydrate  and  strong  sulphuric  acid  separates  oily  bromal,  but  is  not  colored 
brown.  Bromal  hydrate  forms  with  distilled  water  a clear  solution  which  is  not  precipitated 
by  silver  nitrate. 

Bromoform.  Tribromomethane.  CHBr3.  Mol.  weight,  252.25.- — This  compound  is  analogous 
to  chloroform,  and  is  obtained  when  bromine  is  allowed  to  act  on  alcohol  in  the  presence  of  alka- 
lies or  alkaline  earths.  It  is  now  made  almost  exclusively  by  Denig’s  process,  which  consists  in 
the  action  of  sodium  hypobromite  on  acetone  ; bromine  is  added  to  solution  of  sodium  hydroxide, 
yielding  sodium  bromide  and  hypobromite ; and  when  acetone  is  brought  in  contact  with  this 
mixture,  reaction  takes  place  (even  in  the  cold),  resulting  in  the  formation  of  bromoform, 
together  with  sodium  acetate  and  hydroxide.  Bromoform  is  a clear  colorless  liquid  of  peculiar 
odor  and  sweetish  .taste ; its  spec.  grav.  is  2.9,  and  its  boiling  point  147-148°  C.  (296.6°- 
298.4°  F.).  It  is  sparingly  soluble  in  water,  but  readily  in  alcohol,  and  must  be  kept  pro- 
tected against  sunlight.  Caution  is  necessary  in  the  selection  of  this  article  : for  medicinal  use 
only  that  free  from  color  and  acid  should  be  chosen.  The  chief  value  of  bromoform  has  been  as 
an  abortive  agent  in  the  paroxysms  of  whooping  cough,  although  it  has  also  been  used  success- 
fully by  inhalation  in  the  treatment  of  diphtheria.  The  usual  dose  for  children  is  from  5 to  20 
drops  daily,  preferably  given  in  solution.  Owing  to  the  insolubility  of  bromoform  in  water, 
the  following  combination,  suggested  by  Prof.  Bedford,  appears  very  desirable  ; each  fluid- 
drachm  will  contain  about  3 drops  of  bromoform  : Bromoform  16  minims,  alcohol  2 fluidrachms, 
glycerin  12  fluidrachms,  compound  tincture  of  cardamom  2 fluidrachms  ; mix  in  the  order  named. 

Bromol.  Tribromophenol.  C6H2Br3OH.  Mol.  weight  330.06. — This  is  a well-known  com- 
pound produced  by  the  action  of  bromine  upon  phenol  (carbolic  acid)  in  aqueous  solution.  It 
occurs  in  the  form  of  white  crystals  melting  at  95°  C.  (203°  F.),  with  an  unpleasant  odor  and  sweet- 
ish, astringent  taste.  It  is  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  chloroform,  glycerin,  and  fixed  and  volatile 
oils,  but  is  insoluble  in  water.  Bromol  possesses  strongly  antiseptic  properties  and  is  said  to  be 
non-toxic.  It  has  been  given  internally  in  doses  of  to  ^ of  a grain  in  cholera  infantum ; 
externally  it  is  used  in  diphtheria  in  form  of  a 4 per  cent,  glycerin  solution.  Bromol  must  not 
be  confounded  with  Bromal  (which  see  above). 

Bromine  blocks  for  disinfecting  purposes  have  been  recommended  by  Frank  (1882),  and  con- 
sist of  a porous  mass  formed  by  incinerating  a mixture  of  diatom aceous  earth  with  crude  tartar 
or  with  calcium  saccharate ; cut  into  cubes  of  45  Cc.,  these  weigh  about  30  Gm.  and  absorb  100 
Gm.  of  bromine,  which  is  very  gradually  given  off  on  exposure. 

Action  and  Uses. — When  dogs  are  confined  in  an  atmosphere  of  bromine  vapor 
they  suffer  a profuse  secretion  from  the  eyes,  nostrils,  and  fauces,  with  cough,  hoarse- 
ness, and  dyspnoea.  It  is  a corrosive  irritant  of  the  stomach,  producing  vomiting,  pain, 
diarrhoea,  and  death  by  exhaustion.  On  dissection  the  mucous  membrane  of  the  stom- 
ach and  bowels  is  found  softened.  Applied  to  the  shaven  hide,  bromine  acts  as  a caustic 
and  produces  gangrenous  sores.  As  it  is  extremely  volatile,  care  must  be  taken  not  to 
allow  its  vapor  to  reach  the  eyes,  nostrils,  or  mouth.  A case  of  death  from  bromidia  is 
reported  ( Med . News , xlix.  305).  The  caustic  action  of  bromine  may  be  arrested  by  a 
1-2  per  cent,  solution  of  carbolic  acid  (Schrwald,  Therap.  Monatsh .,  iii.  384). 

Formerly  bromine  was  employed  in  the  class  of  cases  in  which  the  use  of  iodine  after- 
ward became  general — viz.  glandular  and  other  forms  of  scrofula , chronic  diseases  of  the 
skin,  constitutional  syphilis,  chronic  enlargement  of  the  internal  lymphatic  and  mesenteric 
glands,  the  liver , spleen,  ovaries , uterus,  etc. — but  in  all  of  these  uses  it  has  been  super- 
seded by  iodine.  During  the  Civil  War  of  the  United  States  it  was  extensively  applied 
to  the  treatment  of  hospital  gangrene , according  to  the  method  of  Dr.  Goldsmith,  which 
consisted  essentially  in  cleansing  the  wound  as  far  as  possible  of  gangrenous  tissue,  and 
then  applying  pure  bromine  by  means  of  a cotton  or  lint  swab  attached  to  a long  wooden 
handle.  Lint  moistened  with  a weak  solution  of  bromine  in  water  was  then  laid  on, 
covered  with  oiled  silk  or  other  impermeable  tissue,  and  secured  with  a bandage.  After 
a few  hours  a poultice  was  substituted,  under  which  the  eschar  separated,  leaving  a 
healthy  wound.  The  operation  was  severe,  and  the  patient  while  undergoing  it  was 
etherized.  According  to  Frank  and  others,  bromine  is  one  of  the  best  agents  for  deo- 
dorizing and  disinfecting  the  atmosphere  of  hospitals,  etc.  Berlin  sanitary  officials 
declare  that  three  and  a half  ounces  of  bromine  can  disinfect  a space  of  918  cubic  feet, 
and  deodorize  a space  of  7000  cubic  feet  {Med.  News,  xli.  514).  Cancer  of  different 
forms  and  of  various  external  organs  has  been  treated  by  tissue  injections  of  a strong 
solution  of  bromine  in  alcohol,  1 part  to  3 ; but  owing  either  to  its  inefficiency  or  its 
painfulness  the  method  does  not  appear  to  have  been  generally  adopted.  A weaker  solu- 
tion (lpart  in  8)  has,  been  used  with  some  advantage  as  a local  application  to  the  skin 
for  the  purpose  of  allaying  pain.  Bromine  is  one  of  the  numerous  remedies  proposed 
as  specifics  for  poisoning  by  Rhus  radicans . 


BRYONIA. 


353 


Recently  the  topical  use  of  bromine,  which  was  advocated  by  Goldsmith  in  1887 
{Med.  Record , xxxvii.  138),  has  been  revived  in  the  treatment  of  diphtheria.  Hiller 
claims  almost  uniform  success  from  pencilling  the  affected  parts  of  the  fauces  with  a 
solution  of  equal  parts  of  bromine  and  bromide  of  potassium,  Gm.  0.5-1  (gr.  viij-xv) 
in  Gm.200  (f§vj.)  of  water.  He  also  employs  inhalations  of  bromine  from  a solution  of 
10  grains  each  of  the  two  agents  in  from  10  to  15  ounces  of  water  ( Gentralbl.  f.  d.  ges. 
Therap .,  i.  341).  These  results  are  confirmed  by  Hesse,  who,  moreover,  warns  against 
the  use  of  bromine  in  laryngeal  diphtheria  and  in  bronchial  and  pulmonary  disease 
( Centralbl.  f.  Med,,  v.  86). 

Bromal. — Bromal  hydrate  is  a powerful  and  almost  caustic  irritant ; applied  to  the 
skin  in  an  ointment,  it  occasions  redness  and  swelling,  with  subcutaneous  infiltration, 
and  therefore  should  not  be  used  hypodermically.  Unless  greatly  diluted  it  cannot  be 
taken  internally,  and  even  then  it  soon  gives  rise  to  burning  in  the  throat,  vomiting,  and 
diarrhoea.  It  has  been  tried  in  epilepsy  ineffectually,  and  there  is  no  reason  why  it  should 
be  used  at  all  as  a medicine. 

Bromoform. — In  1884,  V.  Horoch  inferred  from  his  experiments  with  bromoform 
that  it  is  anaesthetic  and  narcotic.  In  surgical  operations  on  man  the  effects  were 
the  same.  Its  poisonous  action  is  manifested  by  collapse  and  coma  ( Therap . Monatsh ., 
iv.  641  ; Med.  News , lviii.  18).  The  compound  appeared  to  possess  antiseptic  powrers 
( Centralbl.  f.  d.  g.  Ther.,  ii.  93).  Bonome  and  Mazza  substantially  confirmed  these  results  ; 
they  observed,  however,  that  bromoform  acted  more  slowly  than  either  chloroform  or  ether, 
and  was  apt  to  irritate  the  eyes  and  nostrils.  No  excitement  preceded  its  narcotic  action 
( Phila . Med.  Times , xv.  46).  Stepp  claimed  for  it  remarkable  efficacy  in  the  treatment 
of  whooping  cough,  giving  to  a child  three  or  four  weeks  old  one  drop  three  or  four  times  a 
day,  and  to  older  children  proportionately  larger  doses.  It  was  prescribed  in  water  only, 
although  it  does  not  mix  with  this  liquid.  It  tends  readily  to  be  decomposed,  especially 
under  the  action  of  light  ( Lancet , Aug.  1889,  p.  397 ; Dec.  1889,  p.  1192).  Neumann 
found  it  only  a palliative  of  the  disease  ( Therap . Monatsh .,  iv.  ,321)  while  Fischer 
claims  it  to  be  “ the  best  known  remedy  ” {Med.  Record , xxxviii.  257). 

BRYONIA,  77.  S. — Bryonia,  Bryony. 

Bryone  blanche , F.  Cod. ; Couleuvree,  F. ; Zaunriibe , Gichtriibe , G. ; Brionia,  Sp. 

The  root  of  Bryonia  alba,  Linne , and  Br.  dioica,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Cucurbitaceae. 

Origin. — Both  plants  are  climbing  monoecious  and  dioecious  perennials  and  indigenous 
to  Europe,  Br.  alba  being  more  frequent  in  the  northern,  and  Br.  dioica  in  the  southern 
section  of  that  continent.  They  have  rough,  cordate,  five-lobed,  and  toothed  alternate 
leaves,  and  cymes  of  four  to  six  small  greenish-yellow  flowers.  Br.  alba  has  black,  Br. 
dioica  red,  globular  berries,  which  are  \ inch  (6  Mm.)  in  diameter ; hence  the  names  black 
and  red  bryony.  The  root  is  collected  in  spring,  and  on  drying  loses  from  85  to  88  per 
cent,  in  weight. 

Description. — The  roots  are  18  inches  to  2 feet  (45  to  60  Cm.)  long  and  2 to  4 
inches  (5  to  10  Cm.)  thick,  nearly  simple,  in  the  fresh  state  fleshy  and  somewhat  lactes- 
cent. Both  are  externally  pale  grayish-brown,  transversely  wrinkled,  the  root  of  Br. 
alba  with  numerous  transversely  elongated  suberous  warts  or  ridges.  Internally  they  are 
white,  have  a thin  bark,  a brown  cambium  line,  broad  medullary  rays,  and  numerous 
small  narrow  wood-bundles  arranged  between  the  medullary  rays  in  radiating  lines,  and 
concentrically  in  circles  separated  by  rather  broad  circles  of  parenchyma.  This  latter 
tissue  shrinks  considerably  in  drying,  and,  the  root  being  usually  dried  in  transverse 
slices,  these  show  an  irregular  radiating  and  concentric  arrangement  from  the  projecting 
wood-rays.  Dried  bryony-root  is  inodorous  and  has  a disagreeable  bitter  taste. 

Constituents. — The  bitter  principle  bryonin  appears  to  have  been  first  obtained  pure 
by  Walz  (1859),  though  SchwTerdtfeger  had  previously  separated  pearly  crystals  of  a 
bitter  and  acrid  taste,  which,  however,  contained  nitrogen.  The  aqueous  solution  of  the 
alcoholic  extract  is  precipitated  by  lead  subacetate,  the  filtrate  treated  with  hydrogen 
sulphide,  neutralized  with  soda,  and  precipitated  by  tannin  ; this  precipitate  is  dissolved 
in  alcohol,  the  solution  treated  with  lime,  the  filtrate  decolorized  with  animal  charcoal, 
evaporated,  and  washed  with  ether.  Bryonin  forms  a white  powder  having  the  composi- 
tion C^HgoOjg,  of  an  intensely  bitter  taste,  insoluble  in  ether  and  soluble  in  water  and 
alcohol.  When  boiled  with  dilute  sulphuric  acid,  bryonin  is  split  into  glucose  and  amor- 
phous bryoretin  and  hydrobryoretin,  the  former  of  which  is  soluble,  and  the  latter  insolu- 
23 


354 


BUCHU. 


ble  in  ether.  Bryony-root  contains  also  starch,  gum,  sugar,  albumen,  waxy  and  fatty 
matter,  malates  and  other  salts. 

Allied  Plants. — Bryonia  Americana,  Lamarck , and  Br.  africana,  Thuriberg , are  employed  in 
their  native  countries  like  European  bryony.  The  former  species  is  indigenous  to  the  West 
Indies,  the  latter  to  Southern  Africa. 

Br.  epig^ea,  Rottl. , of  India  has  a mucilaginous  and  slightly  bitter  root,  which  is  used  by  the 
natives  as  an  alterative  in  syphilis  and  as  a remedy  in  snake-bites. 

Tayuya-root  of  Brazil,  which  has  been  recently  recommended  as  a remedy  for  syphilis  and 
scrofula,  is  said  to  come  from  a species  of  Bryonia. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  fresh  plant  applied  to  the  skin  produces  vesication. 
Taken  accidentally  by  man,  bryony-root  has  occasioned  profuse  watery  stools,  violent 
colic  and  vomiting,  collapse,  and  death.  Three  fatal  cases  of  its  use  are  referred  to  by 
Dixson,  who  also  relates  one  in  which  grave  symptoms  were  followed  by  recovery 
( Therap . Gaz.,  x.  35). 

In  the  Hippocratic  writings  bryonia-root  prepared  with  wine  was  recommended  for 
tetanus,  prolapsus  of  the  rectum,  and  uterine  ulcers.  Dioscorides  in  addition  speaks  of 
the  young  sprouts  as  purgative  and  diuretic,  and  of  the  root  applied  in  poultices,  etc.  for 
the  cure  of  various  cutaneous  eruptions,  abscesses,  etc.  One  species,  the  black,  was 
especially  recommended  in  affections  of  the  spleen  and  kidneys  and  as  a remedy  for 
epilepsy.  Later  ancient  writers  speak  of  it  as  an  emmenagogue  and  abortifacient,  and  as 
a remedy  for  the  bites  of  venomous  animals  and  insects.  In  modern  medicine  it  has 
been  principally  employed  as  a hydragogue  cathartic  in  dropsy  in  the  same  manner  as 
jalap.  In  certain  cases  of  epilepsy  depending  upon  intestinal  worms  it  has  effected  a 
cure.  It  has  been  used  in  chronic  intermittent  fever  with  enlargement  of  the  spleen , 
and  in  chronic  bronchitis  with  serous  effusion  in  the  air-tubes.  It  has  also  been  recom- 
mended in  the  catarrhal  stage  of  whooping  cough.  Externally,  it  has  been  employed  as 
a rubefacient  or  vesicant  in  cases  of  hydrarthrosis,  chronic  articular  and  muscular  rheu- 
matism, and  glandular  engorgements.  Slices  of  the  fresh  root  have  been  applied  behind 
the  ears  of  children  as  a substitute  for  suppressed  eruptions  during  dentition,  and  the 
juice  has  been  used  topically  in  scabies.  A Roumanian  physician  claims  for  B.  alba  a 
decidedly  anti-haemorrhagic  virtue,  especially  in  post-partum  haemorrhage  ( Annuaire  de 
Therap.,  1888,  p.  327). 

The  dose  of  the  powder  is  from  Gm.  0.60-4.00  (gr.  x-lx).  An  infusion  made  with 
Gm.  8 in  Gm.  250  of  water  (gij  in  Oss)  may  be  prescribed  in  doses  of  a wineglassful. 

Tayuya-root  has  been  sufficiently  tested  in  Europe  to  prove  that  it  is  a very  feeble 
remedy  for  syphilis  and  scrofula.  In  a few  cases  only  did  it  seem  to  be  useful  in  super- 
ficial and  glandular  forms  of  either  disease,  and  then  only  when  reinforced  by  other 
medicines  or  a severe  regimen. 

BUCHU,  TJ.  S.— Buchu-leaves. 

Buchu  folia,  Br. ; Folia  bucco,  Folia  diosmse,  s.  barosmae. — Feuilles  de  bucco  ( booko , 
buchu),  Fr. ; Buckubldtter,  Buccoblatter,  G. 

The  leaves  of — 1.  Barosma  betulina  ( Thunberg),  Bartling  et  Wendland ; 2.  Barosma 
crenulata  ( Linne ),  Hooker.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , PI.  45,  46. 

Nat.  Ord. — Rutacese. 

Origin. — The  three  plants  are  shrubs  attaining  a height  of  several  feet ; the  short- 
stalked  or  nearly  sessile  leaves  are  opposite  or  subalternate ; the  flowers,  which  are  hand- 
some, have  the  calyx  deeply  five-lobed ; the  five  petals  white  or  pinkish,  longer  than  the 
calyx,  and  glandular  punctate  on  the  back,  and  the  five  hypogynous  stamens  alternating 
with  the  petals.  The  fruit  consists  of  five  carpels,  which  are  united  by  the  inner  margin, 
are  dehiscent  above  by  their  ventral  suture,  and  contain  each  one  smooth,  glossy,  and 
black  seed.  The  shrubs  are  indigenous  to  the  southern  portion  of  Africa,  more  particu- 
larly to  various  parts  of  Cape  Colony. 

Much  uncertainty  has  prevailed  in  relation  to  the  diagnosis  of  the  two  first-named 
species,  due  to  the  great  variation  of  the  leaves.  At  the  present  time  the  following 
synonyms  appear  to  be  generally  admitted : 

1.  Barosma  betulina,  Bartl. ; Diosma  betulina,  Thunb. ; D.  crenata,  D.  C.,  Lindl.,  and 
others;  2.  B.  crenulata,  Hook;  B.  crenata,  Kunzc  ; D.  crenata,  Lin.  ; D.  crenulata,  Lin. ; 
D.  odorata,  D.  C. ; D.  latifolia,  Lodd. 

Description. — The  leaves  of  the  first  species  constitute  most  of  the  so-called 
short  buchu  of  the  market;  they  are  12  to  19  Mm.  (£  to  f of  an  inch)  long,  obovate  or 


BUCHU. 


355 


rhomboid-obovate,  cuneate  below,  usually  obtuse,  and  with  the  apex  recurved ; margin 
sharply  serrate,  each  serrature  containing  a gland ; base  almost  entire ; texture  carti- 
laginous. 

The  second  species  likewise  contributes  to  the  short  buchu,  the  larger  leaves  being 
occasionally  held  as  an  intermediate  variety  between  the  short  and  the  long.  The  leaves 


Fig.  41. 


Buchu-leaves : a,  b,  Barosma  creuata,  Kze. ; c,  d,  Bar.  betulina,  Bartl. ; g,  h , Bar.  serratifolia,  Willd. ; e,/,  Empleurum 

serrulatum,  Ait. — b,  c,f,  g , natural  size. 

vary  between  19  and  31  Mm.  (f  and  1?  inches)  in  length,  and  between  oval  and  ovate 
or  obovate  in  shape,  obtuse  above,  margin  serrulate  or  crenate,  each  crenature  with  a 
gland. 

The  leaves  of  Barosma  serratifolia,  Willdenow , differ  materially  in  shape  from  the  pre- 
ceding ; they  constitute  the  long  buchu  of  our  commerce,  are  rather  thinner  than  the  two 
preceding  kinds,  25  to  38  Mm.  (1  to  1?  inches)  long,  linear-lanceolate  in  outline,  taper- 
ing toward  both  ends,  obtuse,  margin  serrulate,  with  a gland  in  each  serrature,  midrib 
prominent,  with  four  lateral  veins  running  nearly  parallel  to  the  margin. 

Buchu-leaves  are  smooth,  have  a dull-green  color,  are  paler  on  the  lower  surface,  and 
have  numerous  large  oil-cells,  which  render  the  leaves  pellucid-punctate  when  held  up  to 
the  light ; they  have  a strong  peculiar  odor  and  a bitterish  and  aromatic  taste.  Prof. 
Fliickiger  (1873)  has  observed  a layer  of  colorless  cells  between  the  epidermis  of  the 
upper  side  and  the  green  tissue,  which  cells  yield  a large  quantity  of  mucilage  to 
water. 

The  leaves  of  Barosma  Eckloniana,  Berg , seem  to  be  occasionally  imported ; they  are 
nearly  an  inch  long,  oval,  rounded  at  the  base,  strongly  crenate,  and  grow  from  pubescent 
shoots  ( Pharmacographia ). 

Constituents. — The  leaves  of  the  first  species  yield  from  I per  cent.  (Fliickiger, 
1880)  to  1.21  (Bedford,  1863)  or  1.63  (Fliickiger  and  Hanbury,  1874)  per  cent.,  those 
of  the  third  species  0.66  per  cent.,  of  volatile  oil  (Bedford).  The  two  oils  agree  with  each 
other  in  sensible  properties,  and  probably  also  in  composition.  In  odor  they  resemble 
peppermint ; exposed  to  a low  temperature,  they  separate  barosma  camphor  or  diosphenol , 
a stearopten  which,  after  recrystallization  from  alcohol,  is  in  colorless  needles  which  fuse 
at  83°  C.  (181.4°  F.),  sublime  at  the  heat  of  a steam-bath,  and  boil  at  233°  C.  (451.4°  F.), 
but  cannot  be  distilled  without  partial  decomposition.  Pure  diosphenol  has  a slightly 
aromatic  odor  and  a peculiar  taste  ; its  composition  is  C14H2203.  Its  alcoholic  solution  is 
colored  dingy  black -green  by  ferric  chloride ; its  solution  in  alkalies  is  precipitated  by 
carbon  dioxide.  It  is  probably  this  camphor  which  was  described  by  Landerer  (1844)  as 
diosmin,  and  observed  in  a tincture  of  buchu  three  years  old.  The  diosmin  of  Brandes 
was  an  extract-like  body  of  a bitterish  taste.  Prof.  Wayne  (1876)  obtained  salicylic  acid 
from  the  distillate  of  a lot  of  buchu-leaves ; recent  investigations  having  failed  to  detect 
this  acid,  its  presence  may  probably  be  accounted  for  by  an  accidental  admixture  of  the 
leaves.  Buchu-leaves  possibly  contain  a body  similar  to  rutin  (Fliickiger).  Besides  the 
constituents  mentioned,  resinous,  gummy,  albuminous,  and  coloring  matters  and  saline 
compounds  have  been  observed.  B.  crenulata  yields  4 to  5.4  per  cent,  of  ash ; B.  betu- 
lina, 4.4  to  4.7  per  cent. ; and  B.  serratifolia,  5 to  5.5  per  cent,  (H.  W.  Jones,  1879). 

Impurities  and  Substitutions. — The  short  buchu  is  sometimes  mixed  with  the 
flowers  and  the  non-aromatic  capsules,  which  must  be  separated.  The  long  buchu  is 


356 


CACTUS. 


usually  cleaner,  but  is  occasionally  mixed  with  or  replaced  by  the  leaves  of  Empleurum 
serrulatum,  Alton , nat.  ord.  Rutaceae,  indigenous  to  Southern  Africa ; they  are  1 to  3 
inches  (25  to  75  Mm.)  long,  have  a narrow  linear  shape,  a serrulate  margin,  and  an  acute 
glandless  apex  ; their  odor  is  different  from  buchu.  From  other  leaves  buchu  is  readily 
distinguished  by  the  characters  given  above. 

Action  and  Uses. — Buchu  excites  a sense  of  warmth  in  the  stomach  which 
diffuses  itself  over  the  whole  body.  It  quickens  the  appetite  and  digestion,  and  favors 
the  secretion  of  urine,  giving  it  a peculiar  aromatic  smell.  Large  doses  excite  vomiting 
and  purging.  The  Hottentots,  from  whom  a knowledge  of  this  medicine  was  derived, 
employed  an  ointment  made  from  it  as  a vulnerary,  and  a vinous  tincture  as  a remedy 
for  various  disorders  of  the  stomach  and  the  urinary  organs.  It  is  chiefly  in  the  last- 
named  affections  that  it  is  used — viz  . chronic  pyelitis , cystitis , and  urethritis.  It  is  most 
commonly,  perhaps,  resorted  to  as  a remedy  for  catarrh  of  the  bladder  caused  by  an 
extension  of  urethral  irritation,  but  catarrh  of  the  whole  urinary  passage  is  favorably 
influenced  by  it,  as  well  as  vesical  tenesmus  and  atony  of  the  bladder  when  they  are 
attendant  symptoms.  Like  other  bitter  plants  containing  a volatile  oil,  it  may  sometimes 
be  useful  in  feeble  digestion  with  flatulence.  It  may  be  administered  in  substance,  Gm. 
1.30-2.00  (gr.  xx-xxx),  or  in  the  infusion  or  fluid  extract.  The  former  is  prepared  with 
Gm.  32  in  Gm.  500  (^j  in  Oj)  of  boiling  water.  Dose , Gm.  32-64  (gj — ij ).  An  infusion 
made  with  buchu  and  the  analogous  plant,  uva  ursi,  is  generally  preferable  to  one  con- 
taining either  alone  : R.  Buchu,  uvse  ursi,  aa.  Gm.  4-16  (3j-iv) ; hot  water,  fl.  Gm.  500 
(Oj).  Digest  for  half  an  hour  in  a covered  vessel  and  strain.  Dose , from  I fluidounce 
to  2 fluidounces  three  times  a day. 

CACTUS.— Cactus. 

Gactier , Fr. ; Kaktus , Fackeldistel , G. 

Nat.  Ord. — Cactaceae. 

Description. — Of  the  numerous  species  of  these  American  plants  which  are  more  or 
less  medicinally  employed  in  their  native  country  the  following  has  recently  attracted 
attention  : 

Cactus  (Cereus,  Miller)  grandiflorus,  Linne. — Night-blooming  cereus,  E. ; Cierge  h 
grandes  fleurs,  Fr. ; Konigin  der  Nacht,  G. — It  is  indigenous  to  tropical  America,  and 
frequently  cultivated  for  ornament.  The  stem  is  weak,  branching,  fleshy,  green,  and  five- 
or  six-angled,  the  angles  being  beset  with  clusters  of  five  or  six  short  radiating  spines. 
The  numerous  imbricate  calyx-lobes  are  linear,  acute,  brownish,  the  inner  ones  yellow. 
The  lanceolate  petals  are  of  a white  color.  The  flowers,  which  open  in  the  evening  and 
wither  by  the  following  morning,  are  very  fragrant  and  produce  an  orange-colored,  inter- 
ternally  white,  berry  of  the  size  of  an  egg.  The  fleshy  branches,  with  the  flowers,  are 
imported  preserved  by  alcohol.  The  juice  has  an  acrid  taste.  The  plant  has  not  been 
analyzed. 

Allied  Plants. — Cactus  (Cereus,  De  Candolle ) fimbriatus,  Lamarck. — The  stem  is  erect, 
eight-  to  ten-angled,  with  clustered  spines,  and  bears  rose-colored  flowers  and  red  fruits.  The 
juice  is  acrid*,  the  berries  are  acidulous. 

Cactus  (Cereus,  De  Candolle ) paniculatus,  Lamarck. — It  is  tall,  tree-like,  with  a quadran- 
gular stem  and  numerous  crenate  and  spiny  branches.  The  large  yellowish  berries  have  a sweet 
and  acidulous  taste. 

Cactus  (Cereus,  Miller)  flagelliformis,  Linnt. — Stem  and  branches  are  weak,  thin,  several 
feet  long,  ten-angled,  warty,  spiny,  and  bear  red  flowers  and  small  woolly  berries.  The  acid- 
ulous juice  is  reputed  to  be  anthelmintic.  It  contains,  according  to  L.  A.  Buchner  (1836),  acid 
calcium  malate,  potassium  acetate,  albumen,  mucilage,  etc. 

Opuntia  vulgaris,  Miller , s.  Cactus  Opuntia,  Linnt. — Prickly  pear,  E. ; Figue  de  Barbarie, 
Fr. ; Indische  Feige,  G. — It  is  indigenous  to  the  West  Indies  and  near  the  coast  of  North 
America  northward  to  Massachusetts.  The  branches  are  broadly  obovate,  green,  fleshy,  bristly, 
and  have  small  appressed  subulate  leaves,  yellow  flowers,  and  red  bristly  berries  with  an  acid- 
ulous sweet  pulp. 

Mammillaria  simplex,  Haworth , s.  Cactus  mammillaris,  Limit. — The  stem  is  simple,  obovate- 
oblong,  about  8 inches  (20  Cm.)  high,  mammilar-tuberculate,  spiny,  and  produces  small  white 
flowers  and  bright-red  berries. 

Mamillaria  simplex,  Haworth,  s.  Cactus  mamillaris,  Limit. — The  stem  is  simple,  obovate- 
oblong,  about  20  Cm.  (8  inches)  high,  mammilar-tuberculate,  spiny,  and  produces  small  white 
flowers  and  bright-red  berries. 

Anhalonium  lewini,  Hennings. — This  plant  is  indigenous  to  Mexico,  where  it  is  used  under 
the  name  of  muscale  buttons  as  a narcotic.  The  plant  contains  anhalonine,  which  seems  to  have 
physiological  properties  similar  to  those  of  strychnine  (Lewin,  1889). 


C ADMIT  IODIDUM. 


357 


Melocactus  communis,  Link  et  Otto , s.  Cactus  Melocactus,  Linn6. — The  stem  is  sub- 
globular,  about  sixteen-furrowed,  the  ridges  beset  with  clustered  brown  spines,  flowers  and 
berries  red. 

The  succulent  stems  of  the  last-named  three  species  and  of  many  others  are  bruised  and  em- 
ployed as  discutient  applications.  The  red-juiced  berries  when  eaten  are  stated  to  color  the 
urine  red. 

Mesembryanthemum  crystallinum,  Linn6  (nat.  ord.  Ficoideae)  (Ice-plant,  Diamond  fig,  E. ; 
Glaciale,  Cristalline,  Fr. ; Eiskraut,  G.),  is  well  known  under  cultivation,  is  covered  with  glit- 
tering vesicles,  has  roundish  ovate  fleshy  leaves,  bears  white  or  reddish  odorless  flowers,  and  has 
a saline  taste.  The  juice  contains  oxalates  and  other  salts.  Brandenburg  obtained  from  the  dry 
plant  42  per  cent,  of  ash,  one-third  being  sodium  salts ; but  II.  Mangon  (1882)  found  it  to  be 
very  rich  in  potassium  salts. 

Action  and  Uses. — Long  ago  cactus  (grandiflorus)  juice  was  known  to  be 
extremely  acrid,  producing  vesicles  and  pustules,  and  when  taken  internally  causing  vomit- 
ing, colic,  and  bloody  stools.  In  substance  and  in  tincture  it  was  employed  as  a vermifuge 
(Richter,  Arzneimittellehre , ii.  290).  In  1868  it  was  stated  that  the  tincture  of  the  plant 
had  been  used  advantageously  by  Rubini  in  functional  palpitation  of  the  heart  (Med. 
Record , iii.  299);  in  1879,  Dr.  N.  S.  Davis  confirmed  the  earlier  statement  ( Phila . Med. 
Times , x.  26)  ; and  in  1883,  Dr.  Byrd  reported  that  it  palliated  the  abnormal  action  and 
the  pain  in  rheumatic  disorders  of  the  heart,  and  was  even  beneficial  to  the  rheumatism 
itself  (ibid.,  xii.  811)  The  general  agreement  of  opinion  in  recent  years  regarding  it 
may  be  expressed  as  follows : Cactus,  like  digitalis,  slows  the  heart,  while  increasing  its 
energy  and  raising  the  arterial  tension,  but,  unlike  the  latter  drug,  it  displays  no  cumu- 
lative action,  nor  does  it  tend,  like  digitalis,  to  produce  extreme  contraction  of  the  heart, 
resulting  in  sudden  arrest  of  its  action.  As  formerly  pointed  out,  it  is  useful  chiefly  in 
functional  disorders  of  the  heart  with  or  without  simple  dilatation,  and  occurring  in 
exhausted  states  of  the  system.  It  fails  when  the  feeble  action  of  the  organ  depends 
upon  extreme  dilatation,  and  also  in  mitral  obstruction,  but  is  useful  in  aortic  regurgita- 
tion. The  medicine  is  usually  employed  as  a tincture  or  fluid  extract  in  the  dose  of  Gm. 
0.30-0.60  (itlv-x)  two  or  three  times  a day. 

Opuntia  vulgaris,  cut  transversely,  is  applied  to  swellings  as  a discutient.  A decoc- 
tion of  it  forms  a mucilaginous  drink  (Porcher). 

Anhalonium  Lewinii,  or  “ muscale  buttons,”  has  been  studied  by  Lewin,  who  pro- 
cured from  it  a basic  substance  named  by  him  anhalonine.  Experiments  with  it  and 
with  a watery  extract  of  the  plant  showed  that  in  the  lower  animals  it  occasioned  a 
sedative  or  paralyzing  action  on  the  spinal  cord,  augmenting  its  reflex  excitability  even 
to  the  production  of  tetanus.  Smaller  doses  caused  only  vomiting  (Therap.  Gaz .,  xii. 
231.)  The  fruit  is  reported  to  possess  an  exhilarating  or  intoxicating  power  whose 
effects  last  for  several  days.  Its  primary  effect  is  to  quicken  the  pulse-  and  respiration- 
rates,  and  is  followed  by  unconsciousness  and  collapse  (Briggs).  An  extract  prepared 
from  it  is  alleged  to  produce  depression  primarily,  which  is  followed  by  excitement,  and 
this  in  its  turn  by  repose  and  sleep.  A single  drop  of  the  fluid  extract  is  said  to  relieve 
dyspnoea  from  various  causes,  and  also  the  paroxysms  of  angina  pectoris  (Landry,  ibid., 
xiii.  16),  besides  exhibiting  various  incompatible  virtues.  Another  reporter  calls  it  “ a 
heart-tonic,  pure  and  simple  ” (Gregory,  Med.  News , liii.  682). 

Mesembryanthemum  is  an  obsolete  medicine  which  once  had  a certain  vogue  in  Europe, 
especially  for  the  relief  of  disorders  of  the  bladder  attended  with  dysury  or  incontinence 
of  urine.  The  expressed  juice  was  used  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  16  (a  tablespoonful)  daily. 

C ADMIT  IODIDUM,  Br.  1867.- Cadmium  Iodide. 

Cadmium  iodatum , Iodidum  cadmicum. — Iodure  de  cadmium , Fr. ; Jodkadmium , Kad- 
miumjodiir , G. 

Formula  Cdl2.  Molecular  weight  364.56. 

Preparation. — This  salt  is  generally  prepared  by  digesting  an  excess  of  metallic 
cadmium  with  iodine  and  water  until  a colorless  solution  is  obtained,  which  is  filtered  and 
evaporated.  It  may  also  be  obtained  by  dissolving  20  parts  of  potassium  iodide  and  15 
parts  of  cadmium  sulphate  in  water,  evaporating  the  solution  to  dryness,  exhausting  the 
residue  with  warm  absolute  alcohol,  and  filtering  and  crystallizing  (A.  Vogel,  1863). 

By  the  first  process  a direct  combination  of  the  metal  and  iodine  is  effected,  while  in  the 
second  process  a mutual  decomposition  of  the  two  salts  takes  place,  with  the  formation  of 
cadmium  iodide  and  potassium  sulphate.  The  latter,  being  insoluble  in  alcohol,  remains 
upon  the  filter : CdS04  + 2KI  yields  Cdl2  -f  K2S04. 


358 


CAD  Mil  SULPHAS. 


Properties  and  Tests. — Cadmium  iodide  exists  in  white,  flat,  micaceous  crystals 
of  a pearly  lustre,  inodorous,  of  a nauseous  metallic  taste,  permanent  in  the  air,  soluble 
in  alcohol  and  at  the  ordinary  temperature  in  a little  more  than  its  own  weight  of  water. 
Heated  at  about  310°  C.  (600°  F.),  it  forms  an  amber-colored  liquid,  and  at  a dull-red 
heat  is  decomposed,  vapors  of  iodine  being  given  off.  The  aqueous  solution,  which  red- 
dens litmus,  yields  with  hydrogen  sulphide  a yellow  precipitate  of  CdS,  which  is  insoluble 
in  ammonium  sulphide  (differences  from  arsenic),  and  the  filtrate  from  this  precipitate  is 
not  affected  by  ammonia,  ammonium  sulphide  or  carbonate  (absence  of  the  metals  of  the 
zinc  group  and  of  the  earths  and  alkaline  earths),  and  after  applying  these  tests  leaves 
no  residue  when  evaporated  to  dryness  and  ignited  (absence  of  alkalies).  The  presence 
of  heavy  metals  would  be  indicated  by  the  brown  or  blackish  discoloration  in  the  yellow 
color  of  the  precipitated  sulphide.  Ammonia  would  be  detected  by  the  odor  given  off  on 
the  addition  of  an  excess  of  potassa  solution.  Most  other  cadmium  salts  differ  consider- 
ably from  the  iodide  in  appearance.  Their  possible  presence,  however,  may  be  inferred 
by  applying  the  following  test  of  the  British  Pharmacopoeia : 10  grains  dissolved  in  water, 
and  silver  nitrate  added  in  excess,  give  a precipitate  which,  when  washed  with  water 
and  afterward  with  half  an  ounce  of  solution  of  ammonia,  and  dried,  weighs  12.5  grains.” 
Any  deviation  from  this  weight  indicates  the  presence  of  foreign  salts. 

Action  and  Uses. — According  to  Garrod,  it  has  the  same  action  and  may  be 
employed  in  the  same  cases  as  yellow  iodide  of  lead,  particularly  in  scrofulous  enlarge- 
ment of  the  glands  and  chronic  skin  diseases.  It  does  not  stain  the  skin.  An  ointment 
may  be  used  containing  Gm.  4-32  (gr.  lx-^j)  of  lard. 

OADMII  SULPHAS.- Cadmium  Sulphate. 

Cadmium  sulfuricum , Sulfas  cadmicus. — Sulfate  de  cadmium , Fr. ; Schwef elsaures 
Cadmiumoxyd,  Kadmiumsulfat , G. 

Formula  3CdS04.8H20.  Molecular  weight  765.64. 

Preparation. — This  salt  is  readily  prepared  by  dissolving  2 parts  of  metallic  cad- 
mium in  2 parts  of  sulphuric  acid  which  has  been  diluted  with  10  or  12  parts  of  water 
and  mixed  with  1 part  or  \\  parts  of  nitric  acid.  Cadmium  dissolves  slowly  in  diluted  sul- 
phuric acid,  with  the  liberation  of  hydrogen,  but  in  the  presence  of  nitric  acid  it  is 
readily  dissolved,  with  the  evolution  of  nitric  oxide,  according  to  the  equation  3Cd2  -f- 
6H2S04  + 4HN03  = 6CdS04  -f  8H20  -f-  4NO.  Sufficient  heat  will  be  generated  to 
cause  the  reaction  to  proceed  briskly.  When  it  slackens  heat  is  applied,  and  the  whole 
evaporated  to  dryness  to  expel  excess  of  acid ; the  residue  is  dissolved  in  three  times 
its  weight  of  water,  the  solution  filtered,  evaporated  to  one-half,  and  set  aside  to  crys- 
tallize. The  crystals  are  collected  upon  a filter  and  dried  at  a moderate  heat.  The 
mother-liquor  may  be  made  to  yield  more  crystals  by  further  evaporation.  From  the 
last  portions  the  cadmium  may  be  obtained  by  precipitation  with  zinc. 

Properties  and  Tests. — Cadmium  sulphate  crystallizes  in  colorless  rhombic 
prisms,  which  effloresce  somewhat  in  the  air,  have  an  astringent  and  strongly  metallic 
taste,  and  change  the  color  of  blue  litmus-paper  to  red.  It  dissolves  at  23°  C.  (73.4°  F.) 
in  1.6  parts  of  water,  is  somewhat  more  soluble  in  hot  water,  and  is  insoluble  in  alcohol ; 
at  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  it  loses  11.8  per  cent.  (5  molecules)  of  water,  and  the  remainder 
when  heated  to  redness ; at  a full  red  heat  one-half  of  the  acid  is  also  expelled.  Its 
purity  may  be  ascertained  by  precipitating  the  solution  of  10  grains  of  the  salt  with 
dilute  potassa  solution,  and  after  washing  the  precipitate  igniting  it ; it  should  weigh 
5 grains;  or,  10  grains  of  cadmium  sulphate  dissolved  in  water,  and  barium  nitrate 
added  in  excess,  yield  a precipitate  which  after  washing  and  heating  should  weigh  9.1 
grains. 

Action  and  Uses. — Sulphate  of  cadmium  is  astringent  and  irritant,  like  sulphate 
of  zinc,  but  is  much  more  powerful.  A grain  taken  internally  has  occasioned  profuse 
salivation,  vomiting,  colic,  diarrhoea,  and  tenesmus.  Injected  subcutaneously,  it  has 
caused  giddiness,  retarded  pulse  and  respiration,  fainting,  and  sometimes  spasms.  It 
has  been  chiefly  used  in  conjunctivitis , ulcers  and  opacities  of  the  cornea , otorrhoea , and 
gleet , in  solutions  containing  from  Gm.  0.06-0.50  (gr.  j-viij)  of  the  salt  in  Gm.  64  (2 
ounces)  of  water.  Bromide  of  cadmium  is  employed  by  photographers,  and  is  sometimes 
found  in  commerce  labelled  bromide  of  ammonium.  In  a published  case  two  ladies, 
misled  by  this  error,  took  a small  but  uncertain  dose  of  the  former  salt.  It  occasioned 
violent  vomiting  and  a severe  burning  pain  in  the  throat,  oesophagus,  and  stomach,  fol- 
lowed by  purging  and  collapse.  No  cerebral  symptoms  were  present.  For  several  days 


CADMIUM.— CA  FFEA. 


359 


both  patients  were  confined  to  bed  and  their  stomachs  continued  irritable  (Wheeler,  Bos- 
ton Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  Oct.  1876,  p.  434).  Roux  employed  it  in  epilepsy,  but  pro- 
duced only  excessive  vomiting. 

CADMIUM— Cadmium. 

Cadmium , Fr.,  G. ; Kadmium,  G. 

Symbol  Cd.  Atomicity  bivalent.  Atomic  weight  111.5. 

Origin  and  Preparation. — This  metal  is  found  near  Bishopstown,  Scotland,  in 
the  form  of  sulphide  as  the  mineral  greenockite,  but  it  is  more  frequently  present  in  small 
quantities  in  some  kinds  of  calamine,  blende,  and  other  zinc  ores.  It  was  discovered  by 
Stromeyer  and  Hermann  in  1817.  Cadmium  being  more  volatile  than  zinc,  it  is  con- 
tained in  the  first  portions  o btained  in  the  distillation  of  the  latter  metal,  and  its  pres- 
ence is  indicated  by  the  appearance  of  a brown  flame  (the  so-called  “ brown  blaze  ”) 
before  the  greenish-white  flame  of  burning  zinc  is  noticed.  To  obtain  cadmium  the 
zinc,  or  the  zinc,  oxide  containing  it,  is  dissolved  in  dilute  sulphuric  or  muriatic  acid,  and 
the  cadmium  precipitated  by  metallic  zinc ; or  the  acid  solution  is  treated  with  hydro- 
gen sulphide  to  precipitate  the  cadmium  as  yellow  sulphide,  which  is  used  as  a pigment 
under  the  name  of  cadmia  ; the  sulphide  is  dissolved  in  strong  hydrochloric  acid,  the 
solution  precipitated  by  an  excess  of  ammonium  carbonate  to  remove  copper  and  traces 
of  zinc,  and  the  washed  and  dried  precipitate  mixed  with  lampblack  and  distilled. 

Properties. — Cadmium  is  a malleable  and  ductile  metal  having  the  color  of  tin,  and 
like  the  latter  it  emits  a crackling  sound  when  bent.  It  crystallizes  readily  in  octahe- 
drons, is  superficially  tarnished  on  exposure  to  the  atmosphere,  becomes  brittle  at  82° 
C.  (180°  F.),  fuses  near  315°  C.  (592°  F.)  (B.  Wood,  1862),  and  volatilizes,  according 
to  Becquerel  (1863),  at  720°  C.  (1319°  F.),  and  according  to  Deville  and  Troost  at  860° 
C.  (1580°  F.).  Its  density  varies  between  8.60  and  8.69 ; its  vapor  is  dark-yellow,  has 
a nauseous  taste,  and  burns  with  a dark-red  flame  to  brown  oxide.  In  the  presence  of 
acids  cadmium  slowly  decomposes  water,  hydrogen  being  given  off ; but  nitric  acid  dis- 
solves the  metal  readily.  The  salts  of  cadmium  are  mostly  white ; those  soluble  in 
water  have  an  acid  reaction  and  a disagreeable  metallic  taste.  Their  solutions,  treated 
with  hydrogen  sulphide  or  ammonium  sulphide,  afford  orange-yellow  precipitates  of  CdS, 
which  is  insoluble  in  an  excess  of  the  precipitant  and  in  dilute  acids  and  alkalies.  Caus- 
tic alkalies  produce  white  precipitates  of  Cd(OH)2,  which  is  soluble  in  ammonia,  but 
not  in  potassa  or  soda.  The  soluble  carbonates,  phosphates,  and  oxalates  and  potas- 
sium ferrocyanide  produce  white  precipitates. 

Tests. — The  impurities  likely  to  be  present  in  metallic  cadmium  are  mainly  zinc  and 
copper,  the  former  of  which  is  recognized  by  precipitating  the  solution  in  nitric  acid 
with  hydrogen  sulphide,  when  the  filtrate  from  the  bright  orange-yellow  precipitate  will 
yield  a white  precipitate  on  the  addition  of  ammonia  and  ammonium  sulphide.  When 
the  solution  in  nitric  acid  is  precipitated  by  slight  excess  of  ammonium  carbonate,  the 
filtrate  will  have  a blue  color  if  copper  be  present. 

CAFFEA. — Coffee. 

Semen  Coffese. — Cafe,  Fr.  ; Kaffee,  G. 

The  fruit  of  Coffea  arabica,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 144. 

Nat.  Ord. — Rubiaceae,  Coffeineae. 

Origin. — Coffee  is  indigenous  to  tropical  Africa,  more  particularly  to  Abyssinia  ; pos- 
sibly also  to  Southern  Arabia,  but  this  is  denied  by  some  authors.  It  grows  wild  in  Central 
Africa  and  on  the  coast  of  Mozambique,  and  was  introduced  into  Java  near  the  close  of  the 
seventeenth  century,  and  into  the  West  Indies  and  South  America  during  the  eighteenth 
century.  At  present  it  is  very  extensively  cultivated  in  most  tropical  and  subtropical 
countries.  The  Liberian  coffee-plant  is  a distinct  species,  C.  liberica,  Hiem  (1877),  which 
seems  to  be  less  subject  to  disease,  and  has  been  successfully  introduced  in  the  East 
Indies.  The  seeds  of  several  other  species  of  Coffea  are  used  in  their  native  countries, 
but  do  not  appear  to  be  of  commercial  importance. 

In  its  wild  state  the  coffee  tree  attains  the  height  of  from  6 to  9 M.  (20  to  30  feet),  and 
has  somewhat  the  aspect  of  a cherry  tree,  but  its  bark  is  whitish  and  furrowed  and  its 
numerous  branches  are  opposite.  In  cultivation  it  is  trimmed  down  to  the  height  of 
1.8  M.  (about  6 feet).  The  smooth  evergreen  leaves  are  ovate-oblong,  rather  accuminate, 
10  to  15  Cm.  (4  to  6 inches)  long,  37  to  50  Mm.  (II  to  2 inches)  wide,  dark -green  and 


360 


CAFFEA. 


glossy  above,  paler  beneath,  and  somewhat  glandular  near  the  midrib.  Flowers  in  clusters 
of  three  to  five  or  seven,  with  a small  five-lobed  calyx,  a white  tubular  five-lobed  corolla, 
five  stamens,  and  one  pistil  with  a bifid  style.  The  fruit  is  an  oval,  deep-purple,  two- 
seeded  drupe,  the  parchment-like  endocarp  enclosing  two  plano-convex  seeds,  which  are 
placed  together  by  their  flat  sides  and  constitute  the  raw  coffee  of  commerce.  The 
Liberian  coffee-plant  has  the  corolla  six-  to  nine-lobed  and  the  fruit  globular. 

When  the  berries  are  ripe  they  are  gathered  and  freed  from  the  pericarp  and  scanty 
pulp  by  suitable  apparatus  and  washing ; the  seeds  are  then  dried,  and  subsequently 
freed  from  the  parchment-like  testa  by  passing  them  between  wooden  rollers  and  by 
winnowing.  The  seeds  constitute  one-third  the  weight  of  the  ripe  berries. 

The  use  of  coffee  as  a beverage  appears  to  have  spread  from  Abyssinia  first  to  Arabia 
early  in  the  fifteenth  century,  to  Constantinople  in  1554,  and  to  France  and  England 
after  1640.  Until  the  beginning  of  the  eighteenth  century  the  supply  was  exclusively 
obtained  from  Arabia,  where,  in  the  district  of  Yemen,  the  plant  is  cultivated  and  yields 
the  small  seeds  so  highly  valued  as  Mocha  coffee.  The  East  Indian  coffees  consist  usually 
of  the  largest  seeds  ; West  Indian  and  South  American  coffees  are  generally  intermediate 
between  the  two  varieties  previously  named. 

Description. — The  seeds  are  oval,  longitudinally  grooved  upon  the  flat  side,  usually 
almost  completely  deprived  of  the  parchment-like,  finely-wrinkled  testa,  fragments  of 
which  remain  in  the  groove  and  sometimes  upon  the  back.  The  horny  albumen  is  of  the 
shape  of  the  seed,  according  to  the  variety  of  a yellowish,  brownish,  bluish,  or  greenish 
tint,  and  is  folded,  or  rather  rolled  up,  whereby  the  groove  is  produced.  The  embryo  is 
situated  under  the  convex  side  near  one  end,  is  slightly  curved,  and  occupies  about  one- 
fourth  the  length  of  the  seed.  Raw  coffee  has  a very  faint  odor  and  a sweetish,  slightly 
astringent,  and  bitterish  taste.  The  commercial  varieties  vary  considerably  in  flavor,  in 
size,  and  in  the  shade  of  color.  On  keeping,  coffee  loses  during  the  first  year  about  8 
per  cent,  in  weight,  principally  moisture ; during  the  second,  5 per  cent.,  and  during  the 
third  year  2 per  cent.,  the  flavor  being  at  the  same  time  greatly  improved. 

Constituents. — The  sweetish  pulp  of  the  pericarp  contains  several  sugars,  of  which 
Boussingault  (1881)  found  2.37  per  cent,  cane-sugar,  8.73  per  cent,  invert-sugar,  and  2.21 
per  cent,  mannit.  According  to  Payen’s  analysis  (1849),  coffee  contains  13  per  cent,  of 
fat,  15.5  of  glucose,  dextrin,  and  an  undetermined  vegetable  acid,  10  of  vegetable  casein, 
5 of  chlorogenate  of  caffeine  and  potassium,  3 of  nitrogenized  principle,  0.8  of  caffeine, 
0.001  of  solid  volatile  oil,  0.002  of  liquid  aromatic  principle  soluble  in  water,  6.7  of  ash, 
and  12  of  moisture,  the  remainder  being  cellulose.  The  fat  consists  of  palmitin  and  olein. 
The  acids  contained  in  coffee  have  been  the  subject  of  repeated  investigations.  These 
render  it  probable  that,  besides  a little  citric  acid,  the  principal  one  is  caffeo-tannic  acid, 
which,  according  to  Rochleder,  is  Payen’s  chlorogenic  acid ; its  precipitate  with  gelatin  is 
soluble  in  the  tannin  solution ; tartar  emetic  does  not  precipitate  it,  but  it  yields  with 
lead  salts  and  baryta  solution  yellow  precipitates.  Vlaanderen  and  Mulder  (1858)  sep- 
arated this  principle  under  the  name  of  caffeic  acid , and  regard  the  other  acids  of  coffee 
( caffeanic , ccerulic , and  caffeelic ) as  products  of  oxidation  ; and  they  believe  the  various 
colors  of  raw  coffee  to  be  due  to  mixtures  of  these  derivatives.  They  consider  chloro- 
genic as  a mixture  of  their  caffeic  and  coerulic  acids  ; Rochleder’s  viridinic  acid  (1848) 
may  be  a similar  mixture.  The  caffeic  acid  of  Hlasiwetz  (1867)  is  obtained  by  con- 
tinued boiling  of  caffeo-tannin  with  excess  of  potassa  solution  and  separation  by  sul- 
phuric acid.  When  pure  it  has  the  composition  C9H804,  is  in  straw-yellow  crystals,  forms 
mostly  yellow-colored  salts,  and,  like  the  amorphous  gum-like  caffeo-tannin,  yields  with 
fusing  potassa  protocatechuic  acid,  C7H604.  By  dry  distillation  pyrocatechin  is  obtained. 
Zwenger  and  Siebert  (1861)  obtained  from  Java  coffee  0.3  per  cent,  of  kinic  acid,  which 
is  most  likely  the  coffeic  acid  of  Stenhouse,  obtained  (1854)  from  coffee-leaves,  and 
which  readily  yielded  kinone  when  treated  with  manganic  deutoxide  and  sulphuric  acid. 
(For  a description  of  Caffeine  see  below.) 

The  roasting  of  coffee,  which  is  best  accomplished  at  a temperature  of  about  250°  C. 
(482°  F.),  renders  the  seeds  pulverizable,  and  at  the  same  time  gives  them  a more  agree- 
able taste  and  enables  them  to  yield  more  of  their  constituents  to  water.  The  coffee 
thus  acquires  a chestnut-brown  color  and  loses  about  18  per  cent,  of  its  weight.  The 
generation  of  gaseous  compounds  ruptures  the  cells,  and  a peculiar  and  agreeable  aroma 
is  produced,  probably  through  the  decomposition  of  the  fat  and  tannin.  But  Payen’s  (as 
well  as  Rochleder’s)  investigations  failed  to  point  out  the  principle  to  which  the  changes 
are  due.  Very  probably  they  depend  upon  the  decomposition  of  several  of  the  organic 
compounds,  and  unquestionably  upon  the  production  of  a pyrogenated  volatile  oil,  to 


CAFFEA. 


361 


which  the  grateful  aroma  is  due.  Caffeine  does  not  partake  of  these  changes,  except  that 
it  is  slowly  volatilized  at  the  temperature  stated ; hence  the  roasting  of  coffee  ought  to 
be  effected  in  closed  vessels.  Bernheimer  (1880)  found  nearly  one-half  of  the  products 
of  roasting  to  consist  of  palmitic  acid,  the  remainder  being  acetic  acid,  carbonic  acid, 
probably  acetone,  hydroquinone,  pyrrol,  methylamine,  .18  to  .28  per  cent,  caffeine,  and 
.04  or  .05  coffeol , C8H10O2,  to  which  the  aroma  of  coffee  is  due  ; it  is  an  oil  boiling  at 
195°  C.  (383°  F.),  and  is  probably  a methylether  of  saligenin. 

Coffee  yields  4 to  5 per  cent,  of  ash — Mocha  coffee  as  much  as  7.84  per  cent. — consist- 
ing chiefly  of  potassium,  sodium,  magnesium,  and  calcium  carbonates  and  phosphates, 
the  earth  salts  amounting  to  one-seventh  or  one-sixth  of  the  weight. 

Adulterations. — Inferior  qualities  of  coffee  are  sometimes  mixed  with  or  sold  for 
the  better  varieties,  and  the  brown,  yellow,  or  discolored  seeds  are  occasionally  artifi- 
cially colored  with  indigo,  Prussian  blue,  and  other  substances.  These  pigments  usually 
adhere  merely  superficially,  and  may  be  removed  by  washing  with  water.  Fictitious 
coffee-seeds,  made  of  clay  and  other  plastic  material,  are  easily  recognized  by  the  absence 
of  fragments  of  the  testa  and  of  the  deep  groove  upon  the  flat  side  of  the  seed.  Ground 
coffee  is  frequently  adulterated  with  roasted  amylaceous  seeds  and  bitter  roots, 
chiefly  chicory  and  occasionally  dandelion.  Boasted  coffee  yields  with  cold  water  a 
brownish-yellow  infusion,  while  that  of  the  adulterants  is  dark-brown  or  red-brown.  F. 
M.  Bimmington  (1880)  suggests  the  following  process  for  the  detection  of  adulterations : 
The  coffee  is  boiled  with  water  and  a little  sodium  carbonate,  then  washed  with  water  and 
macerated  in  a weak  solution  of  chlorinated  lime  for  two  or  three  hours,  when  the  ground 
coffee  will  form  a dark  stratum  and  the  ground  chicory  a nearly  white  layer ; the  micro- 
scope will  reveal  other  admixtures. 

The  pericarp  of  coffee  fruit,  which  has  been  recommended  as  a cheap  substitute  for 
coffee,  is  free  from  caffeine ; but  the  pericarp  of  the  seed  (husks),  which  have  to  some 
extent  been  used  under  the  name  of  sultan  coffee  and  sacca  coffee , and  are  said  to  improve 
the  flavor  of  coffee,  contain  .082  per  cent,  of  caffeine,  according  to  Peckol.  The  roasted 
flattish  ovate  seeds  of  Cassia  occidentalis,  Linne , are  used  in  the  tropics  as  a substitute 
for  coffee  under  the  name  of  negro  coffee  or  Mogdad  coffee , and  have  been  met  with  as  an 
adulteration  in  Europe ; they  do  not  contain  caffeine,  and  are  best  detected  by  the  micro- 
scope. Mogdad  coffee  yields  4 to  5 per  cent,  of  ash  ; roasted  chicory,  10  to  11  per  cent. ; 
roasted  rye  and  wheat,  2 to  3 per  cent. 

Caffeina,  U JS.,  Br .,  It.;  Coffeinum,  P.  G. — Caffeine,  Caffeia,  Theine,  Guaranine, 
E. ; Cafffine,  Theine,  Fr. ; Koffein,  Kaffein,  The'in,  G.  Formula  C8HpN402.H20.  Mol. 
weight  211.68. — This,  the  most  important  constituent  of  coffee,  is  obtained  by  precipitat- 
ing the  decoction  of  coffee  with  lead  acetate,  removing  the  excess  of  lead  from  the  filtrate 
by  hydrogen  sulphide,  neutralizing  by  ammonia,  evaporating,  and  recrystallizing 
(Garot).  Prof.  E.  S.  Wajme  (1875)  recommended  the  following  process,  which  has  been 
found  tery  serviceable : 2 parts  of  powdered  coffee  or  tea  are  boiled  with  3 parts  of  levi- 
gated litharge  and  sufficient  water ; the  acids  combine  with  the  lead ; the  nearly  colorless 
filtrate  is  freed  from  lead  by  hydrogen  sulphide,  and  on  concentration  will  yield  most  of 
the  alkaloid  in  colorless  crystals ; the  yellowish  mother-liquid  requires  to  be  treated  with 
animal  charcoal,  when  the  remainder  of  the  alkaloid  is  likewise  obtained  colorless.  Good 
coffee  yields  between  0.8  and  1.0  per  cent.,  coffee-leaves  .3  per  cent.,  mate  or  Paraguay 
tea  and  Chinese  tea  between  1.1  and  1.25,  kolanuts  2.13,  and  guarana  about  5 per  cent, 
of  caffeine.  Caffeine  crystallizes  in  colorless  or  white,  flexible,  silky  needles  or  thin  long 
prisms,  which  are  inodorous,  of  a faintly-bitter  taste,  fusible,  and  sublimable  without 
decomposition.  It  is  soluble  in  80  parts  (£/!  S .,  P.  G.)  of  water,  and  in  33  parts  ( U /S'.), 
about  50  parts  (P.  6r.),  of  alcohol  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  ; in  160  parts  of  absolute  alcohol ; 
in  about  7 parts  (P  /S'.),  9 parts  ( P . G .),  of  chloroform  ; in  9.5  parts  ( IT.  /S'.),  2 parts 
(P  6r.),  of  boiling  water.  It  is  soluble  in  555  parts  of  ether,  slightly  soluble  in  carbon 
disulphide,  and  dissolves  freely  in  boiling  alcohol.  These  solutions  have  a neutral  reac- 
tion to  test-paper.  Benzene,  chloroform,  or  amyl  alcohol,  when  repeatedly  agitated  with 
its  solution  in  acidulated  water,  dissolves  the  whole  of  the  caffeine  (JDragendorff).  Crys- 
tallized from  alcohol  or  ether,  it  is  anhydrous ; crystallized  from  water,  it  contains  8.5 
per  cent.  (1  molecule)  of  water,  with  which  it  parts  at  above  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  ; when 
heated  to  229°  C.  (444°  F.)  it  melts  to  a colorless  liquid,  and  when  ignited  burns  without 
leaving  any  residue.  The  anhydrous  crystals  have  the  composition  C8H10N4O2,  and  con- 
tain 28.8  per  cent,  of  nitrogen.  Caffeine,  moistened  with  strong  nitric  acid  or  dissolved 
in  chlorine-water  and  evaporated  at  the  heat  of  a water-bath,  leaves  a reddish-yellow 
residue,  which  becomes  purple  by  ammonia  from  the  formation  of  murexoin  (Schwarzen- 


362 


CAFFEA. 


bach).  “ If  a small  quantity  of  caffeine  is  dissolved  in  about  1 Cc.  of  hydrochloric  acid, 
a little  potassium  chlorate  added,  the  whole  evaporated  to  dryness  on  the  water-bath  and 
the  capsule  then  inverted  over  a vessel  containing  a few  drops  of  ammonia-water,  the 
residue  will  acquire  a rich  purple  color,  which  is  destroyed  by  alkalies.” — U.  S.  Con- 
centrated aqueous  solutions  of  caffeine  give  with  silver  nitrate  a white  granular,  crystal- 
line precipitate ; with  mercuric  chloride,  long  needles  soluble  in  hydrochloric  acid ; with 
palladium  chloride,  yellow  scales  j with  picric  acid,  no  precipitate ; the  alkaloid  dissolves 
in  sulphuric  and  in  nitric  acid,  and  the  solution  remains  colorless  for  several  hours 
(Dragendorff).  On  adding  to  a solution  of  a small  quantity  of  caffeine  in  concentrated 
sulphuric  acid  a minute  fragment  of  potassium  dichromate,  it  will  acquire  a yellowish- 
green  color,  which  gradually  becomes  green. 

Caffeine  is  methyl-theobromine , and  may  be  formed  by  heating  theobromine  silver  with 
methyl  iodide  in  sealed  tubes.  According  to  Mulder  and  Gunther,  it  dissolves  more  or 
less  readily  in  solutions  of  citric,  tartaric,  oxalic,  and  acetic  acids,  and  on  cooling  caffeine 
crystallizes.  Hager,  and  afterward  Haaxman  (187V),  ascertained  that  commercial  citrate 
and  valerianate  of  caffeine  consist  merely  of  the  alkaloid  with  some  acid  adhering.  Lloyd 
(1881)  and  Biedermann  (1882)  showed  that  caffeine  salts  with  organic  acids  may  be 
obtained  from  chloroform,  and  that  they  are  easily  decomposed  by  water.  Tanret  (1882) 
regards  the  solutions  of  caffeine  in  sodium  benzoate,  cinnamate,  and  salicylate  as  definite 
compounds  suitable  for  hypodermic  use ; these  solutions  may  be  made  so  as  to  contain 
in  each  Cc.  (15  minims)  0.20  Gm.  (3  grains)  of  caffeine,  and  with  sodium  salicylate 
0.30  Gm.  (41  grains).  The  salts  with  mineral  acids  have  an  acid  reaction  to  test-paper, 
and  are  decomposed  by  water  or  alcohol.  Their  concentrated  solutions  yield  with 
mercuric-potassium  iodide  a precipitate  which  soon  crystallizes  in  needles.  Similar 
precipitates  obtained  with  other  alkaloids  remain  amorphous  (Delffs,  1854).  Diluted 
acidulated  solutions  of  caffeine  are  not  precipitated  by  mercuric-potassium  iodide  (Mayer’s 
test). 

When  caffeine  is  heated  with  alcoholic  potassa  or  with  solution  of  barium  hydroxide, 
water  is  assimilated,  barium  carbonate  is  precipitated,  methylamine  and  a little 
ammonia  are  given  off ; and  from  the  residue  Strecker  obtained  (1861)  a strong  and 
uncrystallizable  base,  caffeidine , C7H12N40,  which  is  easily  soluble  in  water  and  alcohol, 
but  to  a slight  degree  in  ether.  The  decomposition  takes  place  mainly  according  to  the 
equation  C8H10N4O2  -j-  H20  = C7H12N40  -f-  C02.  0.  Schultzen  (1867)  and  F.  Rosengarten 
(1871)  proved  that  by  prolonged  boiling  a further  decomposition  takes  place,  affecting 
chiefly  the  caffeidine,  and  resulting  in  the  production  of  sarkosine,  formic  acid,  methyl- 
amine,  and  ammonia;  thus:  C8H10N4O2  -f-  6H20  = C3H7N02  + CH202  + 2CH3H2N  -f- 
NH3  + 2C02. 

Caffeine  triiodide — or,  properly  speaking,  caffeine  diiodide-hydi'o-iodide — (C8H,0N4O2I2- 
HI)2.3H20,  forms  long,  dark-green  prisms,  which  are  readily  soluble  in  alcohol,  and  is 
given  in  doses  of  2-4  grains. 

Allied  Drug. — Semen  (Nuces)  col^e. — Cola-nut,  Guru-nut,  E. ; Noix  de  cola,  Noix  de  gourou, 
Cafe  du  Soudan,  Fr. ; Kolanuss,  G. — The  tree,  Cola  (Sterculia,  Beauvois ) acuminata,  R.  Brown 
(nat.  ord.  Sterculiaceas),  is  indigenous  to  tropical  Africa,  and  is  also  found  in  tropical  America ; the 
yellow  flowers  produce  five  follicles,  each  containing  one  seed.  The  latter  in  the  fresh  state  are 
brown  externally  and  purplish  or  violet-colored  internally  ; after  drying,  reddish  or  brown,  some- 
what mottled  on  the  surface.  They  are  about  25  Mm.  (1  inch)  long,  oblong-ovate,  flattish  on  one 
side,  and  have  a slight  nutmeg-like  odor  and  a mild  somewhat  aromatic  taste  ; in  the  fresh  state 
they  are  bitter.  Daniell  showed  the  presence  of  caffeine,  and  Attfield  (1865)  obtained  2.13  per 
cent,  of  this  alkaloid,  besides  1.5  fat  and  volatile  oil,  42.5  starch,  10.7  sugar  and  gum,  6.3  pro- 
tein compounds,  and  3.2  ash.  Heckel  and  Schlagdenhauffen  (1882)  obtained  similar  results, 
and  found  also  .023  theobromine  and  1.62  tannin.  The  seeds  are  said  to  be  used  for  clearing 
muddy  water. 

Action  and  Uses. — Since  coffee  was  introduced  into  Arabia  from  Africa  in  the 
fifteenth  century  numerous  opinions  have  been  expressed  of  its  salutary  and  of  its  mis- 
chievous effects.  The  consequences  of  an  abuse  of  tea  were  declared  to  be  similar  to 
those  of  coffee  long  before  chemistry  had  demonstrated  the  identity  of  theine  and  caffeine. 
Among  their  evil  effects  were  enumerated  the  following  : indigestion,  acidity,  heart-burn, 
watchfulness,  tremors,  debility,  irritability  of  disposition,  and  dejection  of  spirits.  By 
some  persons  both  tea  and  coffee  were  accused  of  producing  paralysis.  Most  of  these 
effects  are  more  likely  to  follow  the  habitual  use  of  tea  than  of  coffee,  perhaps  because, 
as  a general  rule,  more  of  the  former  than  of  the  latter  is  consumed ; and  the  spinal 
symptoms,  such  as  painful  muscular  tension  and  cramp  and  persistent  wakefulness,  are 
more  apt  to  be  produced  by  tea  (v.  Thea).  The  habit  of  taking  coffee  at  breakfast  and 


CAFFE  A. 


363 


after  dinner  is  explained  by  the  stimulant  action  (whether  direct  or  indirect)  which  it 
exerts  not  only  upon  the  nervous  system  generally,  but  especially  upon  the  stomach  and 
bowels : there  can  be  no  doubt  that  it  quickens  gastric  digestion  and  relieves  the  sense 
of  plenitude  in  the  stomach,  stimulates  the  secretion  of  bile,  and  by  augmenting 
the  peristaltic  action  of  the  intestine  promotes  defecation.  It  is  quite  as  certain  that, 
used  to  excess,  it  paralyzes  the  digestive  function  in  all  its  steps,  and  leads  to  further 
disorders,  of  which  the  chief  are  congestion  of  the  liver,  constipation,  and  haemorrhoids. 
Whether  these  effects  are  to  be  ascribed  to  a power  in  coffee  to  produce  contraction  of 
the  capillary  blood-vessels  may  be  uncertain,  but  their  reality  is  beyond  doubt.  To  such 
an  operation  has  also  been  ascribed  an  aphrodisiac  action  of  coffee  which  is  alleged  by 
Willis,  Linnaeus,  and  by  numerous  French  writers,  one  of  whom  cites  a Persian  tale  to 
the  same  effect.  It  would  be  singular  if  such  were  the  case,  when,  as  is  well  known, 
the  consumption  of  coffee  is  greatest  by  the  very  nations  most  notorious  for  sexual 
excesses.  It  is  not,  however,  without  interest  to  remember  that  the  use  of  coffee  is  uni- 
versal and  excessive  in  France,  and  that  the  smallness  of  the  families  of  that  country  is 
quite  exceptional. 

The  poisonous  action  of  coffee  may  be  illustrated  by  the  following  statements : Liell 
reports  the  case  of  a woman,  thirty  years  old,  who  in  the  course  of  an  hour  and  a half 
took  18  grains  of  citrate  of  caffeine.  The  leading  symptoms  were  delirium,  semi- 
consciousness, absence  of  headache  ; pulse  55  and  irregular  ; cold  extremities  and  general 
clammy  perspiration,  normal  temperature  (?)  ; anaesthesia,  slight  paresis  of  hands  and 
feet,  rigid  flexure  of  the  muscles  of  the  arms ; cramps  of  the  legs ; tremor  of  the  hands, 
feet,  and  tongue,  and  a reeling  gait ; convulsions  followed  of  a tetanoid  character  ; the 
pupils  were  normal,  the  vision  dim  ; some  vomiting  took  place ; there  was  abdominal 
colic,  but  no  opening  of  the  bowels,  and  urination  was  frequent  and  copious  (N.  York 
Med.  Jour.,  Sept.  19,  1885).  Curschmann  ( Deutsch . Klinik,  1873)  reports  that  a woman 
who  had  taken  a decoction  of  8 ounces  of  coffee  suffered  chiefly  from  a sense  of  impend- 
ing death  and  muscular  weakness.  The  respiration  was  hurried  (24-25  a minute)  and 
the  pulse  112,  firm  and  strong.  Subsequently  diarrhoea  occurred  ; the  urine  was  fre- 
quently voided,  its  quantity  increased,  and  its  specific  gravity  1014.  These  examples,  as 
well  as  those  that  follow,  demonstrate  that  the  toxical  effects  of  coffee  and  caffeine  are 
far  from  uniform.  Thoroughgood  refers  to  a case  in  which,  after  60  grains  of  nitrate  of 
caffeine  were  taken  by  mistake,  muscular  tremors,  vomiting,  etc.  were  relieved  by  digi- 
talis ; in  another  instance  a single  grain  of  the  same  preparation  relieved  an  attack  of 
asthma,  but  “ soon  there  came  on  a deadly  faintness,  from  which  the  patient  was  with 
difficulty  restored  ” {Med.  Press  and  Circular , Oct.  1884,  p.  348).  In  a third  case  a lady 
took  200  grains  of  this  preparation.  The  chief  symptoms  were  great  depression,  semi- 
consciousness, and  somnolence,  extreme  pallor  and  muscular  relaxation,  a slow,  soft  pulse, 
and  sighing  respiration.  Recovery  occurred  after  vomiting  induced  by  apomorphine 
(Geraty,  Lancet , Feb.  1889,  p.  219).  Other  cases  are  reported  by  Glogauer  ( Therap . 
Monatsch .,  April,  1888),  and  by  Cohn  (ibid.,  Mars,  1889,  p.  139).  Guilliot  (Med.  News , 
lii.  71)  describes  the  effects  of  chronic  coffee-poisoning  as  follows  : The  skin  is  pale  or 
dusky,  the  expression  is  dull,  and  the  features  have  the  look  of  premature  old  age,  and 
sometimes  are  slightly  swollen.  The  flesh  wastes,  the  eyes  have  a glassy  look,  the  pupils 
are  somewhat  dilated,  the  lips  and  tongue  are  tremulous  ; the  appetite  is  lost ; there  is 
insomnia  or  else  disturbed  sleep ; dyspepsia  accompanies  constipation  or  diarrhoea ; 
neuralgia  affects  the  stomach  and  other  parts  ; headache  and  vertigo  are  common,  and 
spasms  or  general  convulsions  may  occur.  According  to  the  same  writer,  habitual  excess 
in  coffee  induces  in  men  sexual  apathy  and  even  impotence,  and  in  women  leucorrhoea 
(ibid.,  xlvii.  708).  Sometimes  it  occasions  pruritus  ani  aut  vulvse.  Later  illustrations 
have  been  furnished  by  Mendel  (Centralb.  f.  Ther.,  vii.  727).  Lapicque  and  Parisot 
(Annuaire  de  therap.,  1890,  p.  36);  S6e  (ibid.,  p.  126)  ; Muller  Therap.  Monatsch.,  iv. 
314)  ; Liideritz  (Amer.  Jour.  Med.  Sci.,  1890,  p.  66).  The  physiological  action  of  coffee 
has  been  illustrated  by  Reichert  (Med.  News,  lvi.  476  ; Iherap.  Gaz.,  xiv.  294). 

The  mode  in  which  coffee  assists  digestion  has  been  described,  and  the  popular  use  made 
of  it  to  prevent  or  to  relieve  indigestion ; but  it  is  useful  in  other  forms  of  the  affection 
than  are  associated  with  exhaustion  or  debility,  and  which  directly  result  from  excesses 
in  eating  and  drinking  or  depend  upon  weakness  due  to  sedentary  habits,  acute  disease, 
old  age,  etc.  Gastro-intestinal  atony  may  be  associated  on  the  one  hand  with  con- 
stipation, or  on  the  other  with  diarrhoea,  and  in  either  case  pure  strong  coffee  in  small 
quantities  will  often  afford  relief.  In  constipation  the  coffee  should  be  taken  early 
in  the  morning  before  the  first  meal.  Partly  with  a view  to  promote  digestion, 


364 


CAFFE  A. 


coffee  has  been  much  used  during  convalescence  from  acute  diseases ; but  in  this 
condition,  and  also  in  acute  febrile  diseases  of  a typhoid  type , it  had  long  been  employed 
with  advantage  before  the  present  rationale  of  its  operation  was  proposed,  according  to 
which  it  restrains  tissue-change,  and  thus  becomes  a conservator  of  force.  Caffeine  is  by 
no  means  an  adequate  substitute  for  strong  coffee  under  such  circumstances.  Coffee  may 
take  the  place  of  alcohol  in  the  adynamic  conditions  for  which  that  stimulant  is  prescribed, 
or  may  be  associated  or  exhibited  alternately  with  it.  It  has  been  found  that  in  typhus 
fever  coffee  increases  the  elimination  of  urea,  and  in  so  far  purifies  the  blood  without 
increasing  the  destructive  metamorphosis  of  tissue,  and  that  it  lessens  coma  and  low 
delirium,  which  it  possibly  does  by  contracting  the  capillaries  of  the  brain.  In  this  and 
all  other  typhoidal  conditions  it  appears  to  act  immediately  as  a stimulant  of  the  heart  as 
well  as  a conservator  of  force.  It  has  an  advantage  over  alcohol  in  that  it  stimulates 
and  sustains,  as  well  as  cheers,  without  inebriating.  (Compare  Huchard,  Bull,  de  Soc.  de 
Ther .,  g.  1889  p.  145).  Coffee,  and  also  caffeine,  have  been  used  in  the  treatment  of  inter- 
mittent fever , and  have  cured  it,  as  almost  everything  else  has  done,  occasionally.  The 
power  of  coffee  to  prevent  and  to  moderate  alcoholic  intoxication  is  well  known  ; one  may 
drink  more  wine  when  taking  coffee  than  without  this  association,  and  actual  intoxication 
is  often  arrested  by  a cup  of  strong  coffee.  These  effects  tend  to  confirm  what  has  been 
said  above  of  the  action  of  coffee  on  the  brain.  Delirium  tremens  is  an  indirect  effect  of 
alcohol,  and  comes  on,  it  may  be,  days  after  intoxication  has  ceased,  and  involves  an 
opposite  state  of  the  brain — one  of  anaemia,  not  of  congestion.  In  this  affection  coffee 
is  only  an  adjuvant;  what  good  it  does  is  through  its  primary  stimulant  impression  upon 
the  nervous  system  and  the  stomach,  and  perhaps  by  its  limiting  the  waste  which  the 
exorbitant  excitement  and  muscular  effort  attendant  upon  the  disease  entail.  For  these 
purposes  it  should  be  given  in  small  and  repeated  doses.  In  opium-narcotism  the  condi- 
tion is  much  the  same  as  in  acute  alcoholic  intoxication,  and  in  it  coffee  is  equally  efficient 
in  preventing  coma  and  its  consequences.  Experiments  upon  animals  have  also  shown 
that  coffee  and  tea  are  direct  physiological  antidotes  to  morphine.  Coffee  should  be  given 
in  the  manner  just  recommended,  and  by  the  rectum  as  well  as  by  the  mouth,  but  not  to 
the  neglect  of  other  stimulants  of  the  nervous  system,  such  as  flagellation  and  electricity. 
“ Fluid  extract  of  coffee,”  and  also  “ strong  coffee,”  have  been  used  hypodermically  in 
cases  of  opium-poisoning.  According  to  Litti,  coffee  is  an  antidote  to  strychnine  in  rabbits 
(Med.  Record , xxviii.  264).  The  stimulant  action  of  strong  coffee  sometimes  prevails 
against  obstinate  hiccup.  The  utility  of  coffee  in  spasmodic  asthma  has  long  been 
established.  A competent  authority  in  regard  to  this  disease  (Salter)  says  : “ I should 
think,  from  my  own  experience,  that  coffee  relieves  asthma  in  two-thirds  of  the  cases  in 
which  it  is  tried.  The  relief  is  very  unequal,  often  merely  temporary,  and  sometimes 
very  slight ; sometimes  it  is  complete  and  permanent.”  It  should  be  given  in  a very 
strong  and  hot  infusion,  either  an  hour  in  advance  of  the  paroxysm  if  it  occurs  periodi- 
cally, or  as  soon  as  the  first  symptoms  are  felt.  Its  mode  of  action  is  not  accurately 
known.  It  must  be  borne  in  mind,  however,  that  the  attack  usually  comes  on  at  night, 
and  especially  during  sleep — that  is  to  say,  at  a time  when  all  convulsive  diseases  except 
hysteria  are  most  apt  to  break  out — and  that  the  action  of  coffee  is  directly  opposed  to 
sleep  ; that  the  paroxysm  may  be  relieved  either  by  stimulants  or  by  sedatives  (belladonna, 
lobelia) ; and  therefore  it  seems  probable  that  the  cure  of  the  attack  depends  upon  the 
removal  of  the  congestion  of  the  nervous  centre  which  was,  its  immediate  cause.  A 
similar  mode  of  action  probably  explains  certain  cases  in  which  chordee  and  also  dysury 
were  terminated  by  the  same  means.  Some  forms  of  nervous  headache  are  apt  to  be 
relieved  by  coffee,  by  tea,  and  by  Paraguay  tea.  It  would  seem  that  the  most  appropri- 
ate cases  are  those  in  which  the  face  is  flushed  and  other  signs  exist  of  cerebral  congestion  ; 
those,  on  the  other  hand,  in  which  the  face  is  pale  and  the  pain  appears  to  be  simply 
neuralgic,  and  not  congestive,  are  thought  to  be  aggravated  by  the  medicine.  Caffeine  in 
two-grain  doses  is  sometimes  used,  but  a well-prepared  infusion  of  coffee  is  preferable.  It 
has  long  been  known  that  certain  strangulated  hernias  have  been  reduced  under  the 
influence  of  coffee  after  the  failure  of  the  taxis.  In  many  the  reduction  was  spontaneous, 
in  others  easy.  They  were  cases  in  which  the  protrusion  was  recent,  and  when  there  was 
no  sign  of  gangrene  or  of  inflammation  in  the  hernial  tumor.  The  mode  of  action  may 
be  inferred,  from  what  was  said  above,  to  be,  that  coffee  stimulates  the  intestinal  muscles, 
by  which  the  gas  contained  in  the  loop  is  expelled,  and  contracts  the  blood-vessels,  by 
which  the  serous  transudation  is  diminished.  In  favorable  cases  these  two  agencies 
suffice  to  lessen  the  bulk  of  the  tumor  and  permit  its  reduction.  Despr^s  has  used  strong 
coffee  with  decided  benefit  in  uterine  haemorrhage  occurring  after  delivery  and  also  in  the 


CAFFE  A. 


365 


form  of  metrorrhagia  (Bull,  de  TIUrap .,  xcvi.  201).  Pulverized  roasted  coffee  is  a 
familiar  domestic  deodorizer.  When  prepared  from  the  half-carbonized  seed  it  may  be 
applied,  like  charcoal,  to  gangrenous  and  otherwise  foetid  lesions. 

In  1725,  Zwenger  recommended  coffee  as  a remedy  for  dropsy  (Bull,  de  Ther. , ciii.  146). 
It  has  been  stated  above  that  caffeine  is  a diuretic.  Clinically,  it  has  been  proved  by 
Gubler  and  others  to  act  very  promptly  in  this  manner,  and  to  reduce  the  pulse-rate 
simultaneously.  These  effects  are  ascribed  to  a direct  action  upon  the  nerves  of  the 
kidney.  In  several  cases  of  cardiac  dropsy  “ citrate  of  caffeine  ” in  the  dose  of  3 grains 
three  times  a day  promptly  produced  copious  diuresis,  even  when  digitalis  had  failed  or 
ceased  to  have  any  effect  (Shapter).  The  cases  most  benefited  are  those  in  which  cardiac 
irregularity  exists  as  an  effect  of  muscular  debility  rather  than  of  valvular  obstruction. 
Leech,  who  found  it  useful  as  a diuretic  in  cardiac  dropsy , judged  that  it  exerted  a direct 
action  upon  the  kidneys,  causingthe  elimination  of  water  ( Practitioner , vols.  xxiv.  xxv.)  ; 
and  Brakenridge,  localizing  its  action  still  further,  pronounced  it  to  be  “ a stimulant  of 
the  renal  glandular  epithelium,  and  very  slightly,  if  at  all,  a vascular  diuretic  ” (Edin- 
burgh Med.  Jour .,  xxvii.  4,  100).  That  coffee  and  caffeine  are  primary  and  direct  stimu- 
lants of  the  whole  nervous  system  seems  proved  by  daily  experience,  and  that  their 
effects  are  comparable,  not  to  those  of  digitalis,  but  rather  to  the  action  of  alcohol. 
Unlike  digitalis,  which  affects  only  certain  involuntary  muscles,  caffeine,  like  alcohol, 
stimulates  the  entire  muscular  and  vascular  systems.  It  has  been  repeatedly  said  that 
caffeine  and  digitalis  cannot  be  substituted  therapeutically  for  one  another — that  the  former 
acts  where  the  latter  ceases  to  act;  and  the  explanation  of  this  fact  resides  in  their  very 
dissimilar  mode  of  action.  When  digitalis  fails,  it  is  because  the  heart  is  either  positively 
or  relatively  incompetent  to  propel  the  blood,  and  the  medicine  has  no  power  of  strength- 
ening except  by  tonically  contracting  it;  but  coffee  or  caffeine  stimulates  the  nervous 
centres  which  are  the  source  of  the  heart’s  power,  and  temporarily  restores  the  regu- 
larity and  efficiency  of  its  function,  and  so  permits  the  removal  of  the  dropsies,  etc. 
which  immediately  threaten  the  extinction  of  life.  Cases  illustrating  this  singular  rescue 
from  imminent  death  have  been  published  by  Milliken  (Phila.  Med.  Times , xii.  344), 
Brakenridge,  Huchard,  and  others,  who  agree  that  under  the  conditions  mentioned  the 
hypodermic  administration  of  caffeine  is  the  best  remedy.  The  explanation  given  affords 
a satisfactory  reason  for  the  failure  of  caffeine  in  dropsy  that  is  not  due  to  cardiac 
disease.  (Compare  Lepine,  Huchard,  Dujardin-Beaumetz,  Centralblatt  f.  Therapie , i. 
229.)  We  have  nothing  to  modify  in  this  explanation,  offered  some  years  ago,  of  the 
utility  of  caffeine  in  cardiac  dropsy,  but  may  confirm  it  by  a reference  to  the  cases  of 
Bruen  (Med.  Mews , xlvi.  120)  and  Dumas  (Bullet,  et  Mem.  Soc.  de  Therap.,  Sept.  1886, 
p.  141).  Sansom,  however,  maintains  that  it  is  most  efficient  in  dropsy  caused  by  mitral 
insufficiency  ( Lancet , March  and  April,  1886).  Caffeine,  and  also  strong  coffee,  have 
been  found  useful  in  atonic  diarrhoea , “ in  melancholia,  in  the  brain  disorders  of  over- 
workers, in  the  sleeplessness  and  depression  of  spirits  of  drunkards,  in  asthenic  mania  ” 
(Shapter,  Times  and  Gaz.,  July,  1881,  p.  33),  and  as  a means  of  curing  the  opium  and 
the  alcohol  habit.  This  is  only  another  form  of  the  familiar  fact  that  coffee  tends  to 
dispel  intoxication  caused  by  opium  and  alcohol,  as  well  as  the  exhaustion  or  collapse  that 
follows  their  abrupt  withdrawal,  as  we  have,  indeed,  already  remarked.  It  is  probable 
that  the  use  of  coffee  in  the  southern  and  of  alcohol  in  the  northern  countries  of  Europe 
shows  that  the  one  is  better  adapted  to  a dry  and  the  other  to  a damp  climate,  and  also 
that  an  intellectual  stimulant  is  more  grateful  to  the  excitable  nature  of  Southern,  and 
one  that  blunts  perception  to  the  cooler  temperament  of  Northern,  races. 

The  dose  of  caffeine  may  be  said  to  range  from  Gm.  0.016-0.20  (gr.  £-2-3)  in  pow- 
der, mixed  with  sugar.  Huchard  maintains  that  the  ordinary  doses  are  too  small.  He 
begins  with  5 or  even  10  grains  during  a day,  and  then  gradually  increases  the  dose 
until  15  grains,  or  even  two  or  three  times  that  quantity,  are  taken  in  the  same  space  of 
time.  If,  like  coffee,  it  sometimes  causes  uncertainty  of  sight  and  gait,  nausea,  head- 
ache, palpitation,  etc.,  the  dose  must  be  lessened.  Owing  to  its  imperfect  solubility  it 
should  not  be  prescribed  in  pill,  but  it  may  be  rendered  more  soluble  by  the  addition  of 
salicylate  or  benzoate  of  sodium  or  antipyrine.  The  most  convenient  mode  of  adminis- 
tering caffeine  hypodermically  is  that  proposed  by  Tanret,  who  has  published  the  follow- 
ing formula:  R.  Benzoate  of  sodium,  Gm.  3.60;  Caffeine,  Gm.  3;  Distilled  Water,  q.  s. 
to  make  10  Ccm.  Of  this  solution  each  Ccm.  contains  Gm.  0.30  (gr.  v)  of  caffeine  (Med. 
Record , xxiii.  440).  The  same  solution,  diluted  and  flavored,  may  be  administered 
internally. 

The  so-called  valerianate  of  caffeine  appears  in  some  cases  to  have  been  of  service  in 


366 


CAFFE  IN  A CITRA  TA. — CAHINCA. 


the  treatment  of  hysterical  vomiting  and  of  whooping  cough.  In  the  latter  disease  it  was 
given  twice  a day  in  doses  of  about  Gm.  0.03  (gr.  £)  to  children  of  two  years  and 
upward.  11  Citrate  of  caffeine”  appears  to  be  a compound  of  variable  and  uncertain 
strength. 

A derivative  of  caffeine,  ethoxy-caffeine,  seems  to  act  on  the  brain  and  spinal 
cord,  causing  palpitation  of  the  heart,  flushing  of  the  face,  sweating,  diuresis,  somnolence, 
and  even  coma.  Like  caffeine,  it  may  excite  nausea  and  vomiting,  to  prevent  which  it 
has  been  given  along  with  sodium  salicylate  or  cocaine  muriate.  It  has  been  found 
efficient  in  relieving  neuralgic  headache.  It  may  be  prescribed  in  divided  doses  amount- 
ing to  from  Gm.  0.25-1  (gr.  iv-xv)  a day. 

Kola  or  Gourou  nut  was  thoroughly  investigated  by  Heckel  and  Schlagdenhauffen 
( Amer . Jour.  Phar .,  March,  1884).  It  is  used  throughout  Equatorial,  and  especially 
Western,  Africa  as  a masticatory  and  in  powder,  in  the  belief  that  it  renders  the  gums 
firm,  strengthens  the  digestion,  and,  like  coca,  enables  persons  to  endure  prolonged  exer- 
tion without  fatigue.  It  is  thought  to  cleanse  foul  waters  and  render  tainted  meat  edible, 
and  also  to  be  aphrodisiac.  Its  qualities  appear  to  be  derived  from  the  caffeine  it  con- 
tains. The  above  statements  have  been  substantially  confirmed  by  Barrickman  ( Therap. 
Gaz .,  viii.  335),  as  well  as  by  Smith  {Amer.  Jour.  Phar.,  lviii.  391),  and  by  Firth 
(. Practitioner , xliii.  27)  ; the  last  of  whom,  however,  denies  the  allegation  of  the  first 
that  kola,  like  coffee,  dissipates  alcoholic  intoxication.  Kola  has  been  used  by  Monnet 
and  others  {Bull.  d,e  Therap .,  cviii.  12;  Dictionnaire  de  Therapeutique , art.  “Kola”)  in 
the  treatment  of  various  states  of  debility  due  to  nervous  prostration  or  to  exhausting 
discharges ; to  relieve  irregularity  of  the  heart , neuralgia , migraine , etc. ; and,  in  a word, 
all  the  conditions  for  which  coffee  and  caffeine  are  employed.  The  most  efficient  man- 
ner of  using  kola  nut  is  by  slow  mastication  and  swallowing  the  saliva ; but  various 
pharmaceutical  formulae  for  its  administration  have  been  proposed,  (See  Monnet.  Therap . 
Gaz.,  ix.  223.) 


CAFFEINA  CITRATA,  JJ.  S, — Citrated  Caffeine. 

Caffeinse  Citras,  Br. ; Caffeine  citrate,  E. ; Citrate  de  Cafeine , Fr. ; Koffein  citrat,  G. 
Preparation. — Caffeine,  50  Gm. ; Citric  Acid,  50  Gm. ; Distilled  Water,  hot,  100 
Cc.  Dissolve  the  citric  acid  in  the  hot  distilled  water,  add  the  caffeine,  and  evaporate 
the  resulting  solution  on  a water-bath  to  dryness,  constantly  stirring  toward  the  end  of 
the  operation.  Reduce  the  product  to  a fine  powder  and  transfer  it  to  well-closed 
bottles. — U.  S.,  The  process  of  the  British  Pharmacopoeia  is  equivalent  to  the  above, 
the  quantities,  however,  being  expressed  in  parts. 

Citrated  caffeine  is  a white  powder  having  a purely  acid  (slightly  bitter,  Br.)  taste, 
and  an  acid  reaction,  readily  soluble  in  a mixture  of  2 parts  of  chloroform  and  1 of 
rectified  spirit.  With  3 parts  of  water  it  forms  a syrupy  liquid,  and  this,  when  diluted, 
gives  a precipitate  (caffeine),  which  is  redissolved  when  25  (10,  Br.)  parts  of  water  have 
been  added. — U.  S. 

CAFFEINA  CITRATA  EFFERVESCENS,  U,  S.— Effervescent 

Citrated  Caffeine. 

Preparation. — Caffeine,  10  Gm. ; Citric  Acid,  10  Gm. ; Sodium  Bicarbonate,  330 
Gm. ; Tartaric  Acid,  300  Gm. ; Sugar,  in  very  fine  powder,  350  Gm. ; Alcohol,  a sufficient 
quantity.  To  make  1000  Gm. 

Triturate  the  solid  ingredients,  previously  well  dried,  to  a fine,  uniform  powder.  Mix 
this  with  alcohol  to  a soft  paste  and  rub  it  through  a No.  6 tinned-iron  sieve  or  enam- 
elled colander.  Then  dry  it,  and  reduce  it  to  a coarse,  granular  powder.  Keep  the 
product  in  well-stoppered  bottles. — U.  S. 

CAHINCA. — Cahinca  Root. 

Radix  caincse , s.  cainanse. — Cainga,  Fr. ; Caincawurzel , G. 

The  root  of  Chiococca  racemosa,  Jacquin. 

Nat.  Ord. — Rubiaceae,  Coffeineae. 

Origin, — The  plant  is  a native  of  Southern  Florida,  the  West  Indies,  Central  Amer- 
ica, and  a portion  of  South  America.  It  is  a shrub  with  opposite  shining,  oval,  ovate- 
oblong,  or  elliptic  leaves,  racemes  of  fragrant  yellowish  flowers,  and  small  white  berries 
with  flattish  ovate  seeds. 


CALAMUS. 


367 


Description, — The  woody  root  exists  in  pieces  7 to  15  Cm.  (3  to  6 inches)  long, 
about  2 to  6 Mm.  to  I inch)  thick,  more  or  less  bent,  externally  blackish-  or  gray- 
ish-brown, finely  wrinkled  longitudinally,  with  narrow  transverse  corky  ridges  and 
fissures,  with  a thin  brown  bark  of  a resinous  lustre  internally,  and  with  a whitish  wood. 
It  is  usually  mixed  with  portions  of  the  lower  stem,  which  are  12  to  25  Mm.  (?  to  1 
inch)  thick,  and  have  deep  longitudinal  furrows,  with  intervening  rounded  often  very 
prominent  ridges  produced  by  separated  wood-bundles  which  have  not  been  developed 
into  separate  branches ; the  porous  wood  encloses  a thin  pith  and  is  radiate  by  medul 
lary  rays.  The  bark  has  a nauseous,  bitter,  and  acrid  taste. 

The  roots  of  Chiococca  densifolia,  Martius , and  Ch.  anguifuga,  Martius,  are  of  a red- 
dish-brown color,  often  transversely  fissured,  and  destitute  of  longitudinal  ridges.  The 
shrubs  are  indigenous  to  Brazil,  and  are  known  there  as  cainana  or  caninana. 

Constituents. — The  most  important  constituent  of  cahinca-root  is  cahincin  or 
cahincic  acid,  which,  according  to  Rochleder  (1867),  has  the  composition  C40H64O18.  It 
exists  in  the  root  partly  free  and  partly  as  a calcium  salt  (Frangois,  Pelletier,  and 
Caventou,  1829),  forms  white,  silky,  very  bitter  needles,  is  soluble  in  about  600  parts 
of  cold  water  and  ether,  and  crystallizes  from  its  solution  in  hot  alcohol.  When  boiled 
with  hydrochloric  acid  it  is  split  into  sugar  and  cahincetin,  C22H3403,  the  alcoholic  solu- 
tion of  which  gelatinizes  on  the  addition  of  water.  Fused  together  with  potassium 
hydroxide,  cahincetin  yields  butyric  acid  and  cahincigenin,  C14H2402.  Rochleder  and 
Hlasiwetz  (1851)  regard  the  tannin  of  cahinca-root  as  being  identical  with  caffeo-tannic 
acid. 

Action  and  Uses. — When  first  introduced  into  American  and  European  medicine 
cahinca  was  reputed  to  be  an  efficient  diuretic,  as  well  as  a tonic,  emmenagogue,  and 
laxative.  There  is  no  doubt  of  its  diuretic  virtues  in  dropsy  independent  of  acute  renal 
disease.  But  it  is  now  very  rarely  employed.  By  some  it  is  stated  to  be  a hydragogue 
cathartic.  It  is  best  administered  in  a decoction  made  with  Gm.  8 (gij)  of  the  root  to 
a pint  of  water,  or  an  electuary  may  be  formed  with  powdered  gum  and  syrup  contain- 
ing about  Gm.  1 (gr.  xv)  of  the  powdered  root. 

CALAMUS,  JJ.  So— Calamus. 

Rhizoma  calami , P.  G. ; Radix  calami  aromatici , Radix  acori. — Sweet  flag,  E.  ; Acore 
vrai,  Acore  odorant , Fr.  ; Kalmuswurzel , G. ; Acorro  vero,  It. ; Calamo  aromatico , It., 
Sp. 

The  rhizome  of  Acorus  Calamus,  Linne.  Woodville,  Med.  Rot.  248;  Bentley  and 
Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 279. 

Nat.  Ord. — Aracese,  Acoroideae. 

Origin. — An  herbaceous  perennial,  with  leaves  resembling  those  of  the  flag  (iris), 
and  green  triangular  flowering  stems  termi- 
nating with  a cylindrical  spadix  of  small 
sessile  flowers,  and  a long  two-edged  bract 
resembling  the  leaves.  The  plant  is  indig- 
enous to  North  America  and  Northern  Asia, 
but  has  spread  throughout  Central  Asia 
to  India,  and  throughout  Europe  to  the 
Pyrenees.  In  Burmah  and  Ceylon  it  is 

cultivated.  It  grows  in  the  muddy  mar- 
gins of  streams  and  swamps. 

Descrmtion  — The  rhizome  grows  to  Transverse  section  of  rhizome  of. Calamus;  magnified 
V y , n . . ,1  three  diameters, 

the  length  of  several  feet,  is  horizontal, 

subcylindrical,  about  2 Cm.  (f  inch)  in  diameter;  reddish-brown,  longitudinally  wrinkled, 
distinctly  annulate  from  the  transverse  and  obliquely-directed  leaf-scars,  which  are 
crowded  near  the  over-ground  stems;  in  other  parts  9 to  12  Mm.  (f  to  5 inch)  or  more 
distant,  and  some  of  them  fringed  by  projecting  wood-bundles ; the  lower  surface  of  the 
rhizome  shows  the  circular  root-scars  arranged  in  a wavy  single  or  sometimes  double 
line,  branching  alternately  to  the  right  and  left.  It  has  a spongy  texture,  due  to  nume- 
rous air-passages,  and  breaks  with  a short  corky  fracture,  showing  a white  or  pale  red- 
dish-white color  internally.  Upon  the  transverse  section  a fine  darker  line  (nucleus 
sheath)  separates  an  elliptical  central  portion  from  an  outer  layer,  the  latter  being  in 
width  about  one-fifth  the  diameter  of  the  rhizome.  The  wood-bundles  are  irregularly 
scattered,  most  numerous  within  the  nucleus  sheath ; the  oil-cells,  which  become  more 


368 


CALCII  BROMIDTJM. 


conspicuous  on  being  moistened  by  an  alkali,  are  likewise  scattered  and  more  numerous 
in  the  outer  portion. 

Calamus  has  an  agreeable  aromatic  odor,  which  is  best  preserved  by  keeping  the  rhi- 
zome unpeeled,  as  directed  by  the  present  Pharmacopoeia.  Peeled  calamus  when  fresh 
is  white,  but  turns  pinkish  on  drying,  and  is  less  aromatic  and  bitter  than  the  unpeeled. 
It  should  be  collected  early  in  spring,  and  deprived  of  the  far  less  aromatic  and 
bitter  rootlets,  which  are  10  to  15  Cm.  (4  to  6 inches)  long,  unbranched,  but  near  the 
tip  beset  with  soft  thin  fibres.  On  drying  it  loses  from  70  to  75  per  cent,  in  weight. 
It  is  not  subject  to  adulteration,  and  cannot  easily  be  confounded  with  other  rhizomes. 

Constituents.— The  rootlets  contain  little  of  the  volatile  oil ; the  rhizome  yields 
from  li  to  2 percent.;  Bartels  obtained  from  the  fresh-peeled  rhizome  I per  cent., 
Martius  1 per  cent,  from  the  peelings.  The  yellowish  or  brown-yellow  oil  (Oleum 
calami,  P.  G.')  has  an  agreeable  odor,  turns  red-brown  by  ferric  chloride,  and  contains, 
according  to  A.  Kurbatow  (1873),  a hydrocarbon, ‘C10H16,  of  a terebinthinate  odor,  boiling 
at  159°  C.  (318.2°  F.).  and  yielding  with  chlorine  a crystalline  mass  which  melts  at 
65°  C.  (149°  F.).  The  portion  boiling  at  a higher  temperature  is  of  a deep-blue  color, 
and  not  of  a constant  boiling-point.  Faust  (1867)  named  the  bitter  principle  acorin. 
It  was  obtained  from  the  concentrated  decoction  by  precipitating  it  successively  with 
alcohol  and  lead  acetate  and  subacetate,  removing  the  lead  by  hydrogen  sulphide, 
neutralizing  with  soda,  and  agitating  with  ether,  which  leaves  it  as  a soft  brown-yellow- 
ish mass,  soluble  in  ether  and  alcohol,  having  a faint  alkaline  reaction,  and  being  precip- 
itated from  its  solution  in  hydrochloric  acid  by  tannin,  sodium  phosphomolybdate, 
and  potassium  iodohydrargyrate.  It  contains  nitrogen,  and  when  boiled  with  dilute 
sulphuric  acid  or  baryta-water  yields  sugar  and  a resin-like  body.  Fliickiger  obtained  a 
small  quantity  of  crystals  from  its  tannin  precipitate  by  treatment  with  lead  oxide  and 
chloroform.  Thomas  (1887)  purified  the  acorin  as  obtained  by  Faust  by  shaking  the 
aqueous  solution  with  freshly-burned  animal  charcoal,  then  washing  and  drying  this 
and  extracting  it  with  90  per  cent,  alcohol.  This  was  recovered,  remnants  of  volatile 
oil  being  removed  on  a water-bath ; the  liquid  was  shaken  with  ether,  and  on  evaporation 
this  left  the  acorin  entirely  free  from  nitrogen.  By  long  boiling  with  dilute  acids  or  alkalies 
an  odor  of  ethereal  oil  becomes  perceptible;  this  formed  in  larger  quantity  by  heating 
acorin  with  aqueous  soda  solution  in  a current  of  hydrogen.  This  oil  consists  of  two 
bodies,  one  boiling  at  158°-159°,  as  above,  and  the  other  between  255°  and  288°,  and 
is  blue  in  color,  but  becomes  colorless  on  boiling  with  sodium  metal.  This  reaction 
also  yields  sugar;  if  carried  on  in  the  air,  a resin-like  body,  acoretin,  appears,  which 
by  reduction  in  alkaline  solution  yields  ethereal  oil  and  sugar.  Trommsdorff  obtained 
from  the  fresh  drug  1.6  of  starch,  5.5  of  gum,  2.3  per  cent,  of  soft  resin,  and  21  per 
cent,  of  cellulose. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Tinctura  calami. — Digest  1 part  of  bruised  calamus 
with  5 parts  of  alcohol  spec.  grav.  .892  for  eight  days ; express  and  filter.  It  has  a 
brownish-yellow  color. — P.  G. 

Extractum  calami. — Bruised  calamus  is  exhausted  by  digestion  with  a mixture  of 
3 parts  of  water  and  2 parts  of  alcohol,  and  the  filtered  tincture  evaporated  to  the  con- 
sistence of  a thick  extract. — P.  G. 

Action  and  Uses. — Calamus  excites  a sense  of  warmth  in  the  stomach,  promotes 
the  appetite,  and  improves  the  digestion.  It  is  said  to  quicken  the  pulse  and  increase  the 
secretion  of  urine  and  perspiration.  In  excessive  doses  it  may  cause  headache.  It  is 
added  to  bitter  tonic  infusions  in  atonic  dyspepsia  and  other  disorders  producing  abdomi- 
nal flatulence.  It  may  be  used  for  the  relief  of  flatulent  colic  and  as  a very  mild  stimulant 
in  some  cases  of  the  typhoid  condition.  It  is  often  eaten  prepared  with  sugar  as  a con- 
serve, and  it  may  be  habitually  chewed  to  relieve  slight  dyspeptic  disorder.  It  is  said  to 
be  used  for  coughs  by  the  Indians  of  the  Hudson’s  Bay  territory  (Amer.  Jour.  Phar lvi. 
617).  An  infusion  made  with  Gm.  32  (^j)  of  calamus  and  Gm.  500  (Oj)  of  hot  water 
may  be  prescribed  in  the  dose  of  a wine-glassful. 

CALCII  BROMIDUM,  IT.  Calcium  Bromide. 

Calcium  hromatum. — Bromure  de  calcium , Fr. ; Bromcalcium , Calciumhromid , Gr. 

Formula  CaBr2.  Molecular  weight  199.43. 

Preparation. — Calcium  bromide  is  readily  prepared  by  dissolving  pure  calcium 
carbonate  in  hydrobromic  acid  and  evaporating  the  solution.  Bodeker  has  used  a method 
which  was  described  by  Faust  (1867),  and  is  based  upon  the  decomposition  of  sulphur 


CALCII  BROMIDUM. 


369 


bromide,  SBr6,  by  lime,  whereby  calcium  bromide  and  sulphate  are  formed ; SBr6  + 
4Ca(OH)2  yields  3CaBr2  -f  CaS04  -f  4H20.  20  parts  of  sulphur  are  dissolved  in  240  parts 
of  bromine  (300  parts  are  required  by  calculation),  and  the  solution  added  to  thin  milk 
of  lime,  which  contains  140  parts  of  pure  lime.  After  the  mixture  has  become  colorless 
the  liquid  is  filtered,  treated  with  carbon  dioxide,  and  heated  to  remove  excess  of  lime ; 
the  filtrate  is  concentrated,  mixed  with  twice  its  bulk  of  alcohol  to  precipitate  calcium 
sulphate,  is  again  filtered,  and  evaporated. 

Properties. — Thus  obtained,  calcium  bromide  is  a whitish,  granular,  or  pulverulent, 
neutral,  very  deliquescent  salt,  having  a pungent  bitter  and  saline  taste.  It  is  freely 
soluble  in  alcohol  (1  part,  U.  S .)  and  water,  the  latter  solution  yielding  with  difficulty 
colorless  needles.  According  to  Kremers  (1857,  1858),  1 part  of  the  salt  dissolves  at  0° 
C.  (32°  F.)  in  .80  parts,  at  20°  C.  (68°  F.)  in  .70  parts,  at  40°  C.  (104°  F.),  in  .47  parts, 
and  at  the  boiling-point  105°  C.  (221°  F.)  in  .32  parts  of  water,  and  solutions  having  at 
19.5°  C.  (67°  F.)  the  specific  gravity 

1.044  1.089  1.139  1.194  1.252  1.315  1.385  1.461  1.594  1.641 
contain  5 10  15  20  25  30  35  40  45  50  per  cent.  CaBr2. 

The  salt  melts  at  a red  heat,  giving  off  bromine  ; treated  with  strong  sulphuric  acid, 
hydrobromic  acid  is  evolved,  afterward  bromine  and  sulphur  dioxide.  The  aqueous  solu- 
tion yields  with  ammonium  oxalate  a white  precipitate  insoluble  in  acetic  acid,  but  soluble 
in  hydrochloric  acid  ; with  silver  nitrate,  a curdy  precipitate  insoluble  in  nitric  acid  and 
in  diluted  ammonia-water ; and  with  a few  drops  of  chlorine-water  liberates  bromine, 
which  dissolves  in  carbon  disulphide  with  a yellow  or  brown-yellow  color  free  from  violet 
tint. 

The  solution  left  in  contact  with  lime  forms  calcium  oxybromide,  which  has  a strong 
alkaline  reaction,  and  on  evaporation  is  left  behind  as  a very  white  salt. 

Tests. — The  neutral  reaction  of  the  salt  and  its  ready  solubility  in  water  and  alcohol 
exclude  most  impurities.  “ If  to  5 Cc.  of  a 5 per  cent,  aqueous  solution,  slightly  acid- 
ulated with  hydrochloric  acid,  an  equal  volume  of  hydrogen  sulphide  test-solution  be 
added,  neither  coloration  nor  turbidity  should  be  perceptible  (absence  of  arsenic,  lead, 
etc.).  The  addition  of  ammonium  sulphide  test-solution  to  the  aqueous  solution  should 
not  produce  any  color  or  turbidity  (absence  of  iron,  aluminum,  etc.).  If  5 Cc.  of  the 
aqueous  solution  (1  in  20),  slightly  acidulated  with  acetic  acid,  be  completely  precipitated 
with  ammonium  oxalate  test-solution,  the  filtrate  should,  on  evaporation,  leave  not  more 
than  a trace  of  fixed  residue  (limit  of  magnesium  and  alkalies).  If  diluted  sulphuric 
acid  be  dropped  upon  the  salt,  the  latter  should  not  at  once  assume  a yellow  color 
(absence  of  bromate).  If  to  5 Cc.  of  the  aqueous  solution  (1  in  20)  a few  drops  of 
starch  test-solution  be  added,  and  then  chlorine-water,  drop  by  drop,  no  blue  color  should 
appear  (absence  of  iodide).  No  turbidity  should  be  produced  if  0.2  Cc.  of  barium  chlo- 
ride test-solution  be  added  to  5 Cc.  of  the  aqueous  solution  (absence  of  sulphate).  If 
1 Gm.  of  the  salt  be  mixed  with  0.5  Gm.  of  iron  filings  and  0.5  Gm.  of  powdered 
zinc,  and  heated  in  a test-tube  with  5 Cc.  of  sodium  hydrate  test-solution,  no  ammoniacal 
vapors  should  be  evolved  (absence  of  nitrate  or  nitrite).  If  0.25  Gm.  of  the  wTell-dried 
salt  be  dissolved  in  10  Cc.  of  water,  and  2 drops  of  potassium  chromate  test-solution 
added,  it  should  require  25.  Cc.  of  decinormal  silver  nitrate  solution  to  produce  a perma- 
nent red  color  (corresponding  to  99.7  per  cent,  of  the  pure  salt,  a greater  amount  indi- 
cating presence  of  chloride,  a smaller  amount  other  impurities).” — U.  S. 

Action  and  Uses. — In  1871  this  salt  was  stated  by  Dr.  Hammond  to  produce 
the  characteristic  effects  of  the  bromides  more  promptly  than  the  analogous  compounds, 
and  also  to  induce  sleep  where  they  failed  to  do  so.  He  regarded  it  as  peculiarly 
appropriate  for  relieving  the  insomnia  caused  by  mental  labor  or  excitement,  and  the 
exhausted  and  irritable  states  of  the  nervous  system  met  with  in  hysterical  women,  and 
accompanied  by  headache,  vertigo,  insomnia,  and  extreme  mental  excitability.  He  also 
found  that  it  cured  epilepsy  in  very  young  infants  when  bromide  of  potassium  failed. 
The  best  mode  of  administering  was  said  to  be  according  to  the  following  formula  : R. 
Calcii  bromid.  gj  ; Syrupi  calcis  lactophos.  f^iv. — M.  S.  A teaspoonful  three  times  a 
day  in  a little  water  in  epileptic  cases.  As  a hypnotic  for  adults  the  dose  is  from  Gm. 
1.30  to  2.00  (gr.  xx-xxx). 

It  has  been  objected  to  this  as  well  as  to  the  other  bromine  salts  that  their  sedative 
action  is  due  not  to  the  bromine  they  contain,  but  to  their  alkaline  or  earthy  bases.  This 
strange  notion  is  sufficiently  condemned  by  the  fact  that  uncombined  bromohydric  acid 
produces  the  same  effects  as  its  salts. 

24 


370 


CALCIl  CARBON  AS  PRjECIPITATUS. 


Iodobromide  of  calcium  is  reported  to  have  maintained  in  quiescence  the  distressing 
symptoms  of  a case  of  exophthalmic  goitre)  and  at  last  reduced  the  thyroid  gland  to  its 
natural  size. 

CALCIl  CARBONAS  PR^CIPITATUS,  U.  S.— Precipitated  Calcium 

Carbonate. 

Calcii  carbonas  prsecipitata , Br. ; Calcium  carbonicum  prsecipitatum , P.  G.  ; Calcaria 
carbonica  prsecipitata,  Carbonas  calcicus  prsecipitatus,  Greta  prsecipitata. — Precipitated  car- 
bonate of  lime , E.  ; Carbonate  de  chaux  precipite , Craie  precipitee,  Fr. ; Calciumkarbonat , 
Pracipitirter  Jcohlensaurer  Kalk,  G. ; Carbonato  di  calcio  precipitato , It. ; Carbonato  de 
cal , Sp. 

Formula  CaC03.  Molecular  weight  99.76. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Calcium  Chloride  5 ounces;  Sodium  Carbonate  13  ounces; 
boiling  Distilled  Water  a sufficiency.  Dissolve  the  calcium  chloride  and  sodium  car- 
bonate each  in  2 pints  of  the  water  ; mix  the  two  solutions  and  allow  the  precipitate  to 
subside.  Collect  this  on  a calico  filter,  wash  it  with  boiling  distilled  water  until  the  wash- 
ings cease  to  give  a precipitate  with  silver  nitrate,  and  dry  the  product  at  the  tempera- 
ture of  100°  C.  (212°  F.). — Br. 

In  this  process  a mutual  decomposition  of  calcium  chloride  and  sodium  carbonate  takes 
place,  resulting  in  the  formation  of  sodium  chloride,  which  remains  in  solution,  and 
calcium  carbonate,  which  precipitates.  The  decomposition  is  illustrated  by  the  equation 
CaCl2  + Na2C03  = 2NaCl  -f-  CaC03.  The  precipitate  retains,  even  after  prolonged  wash- 
ing, a small  portion  of  sodium  salt;  made  with  ammonium  carbonate,  it  is  much  more 
readily  freed  from  the  latter  by  washing.  If  calcium  carbonate  is  precipitated  in  the  cold, 
it  is  flocculent  and  quite  voluminous,  and  with  difficulty  deprived  of  the  mother-liquor 
by  washing;  hence  it  is  advisable  to  heat  the  solutions  before  mixing  them. 

Properties. — Thus  prepared,  it  is  a white,  impalpable,  inodorous,  and  tasteless 
powder  consisting  of  microscopic  rhombohedric  crystals,  but  entirely  free  from  grittiness. 
It  has  the  specific  gravity  2.72,  is  without  action  upon  moistened  test-paper,  and  is  not 
altered  in  the  air,  but  above  400°  C.  (752°  F.)  begins  to  evolve  carbon  dioxide,  and  at  a 
red  heat  is  entirely  converted  into  calcium  oxide.  “ The  salt  is  nearly  insoluble  in 
water ; the  solubility  is  increased  by  presence  of  ammonium  salts,  and  especially  by  car- 
bonic acid  ; alkali  hydroxides  diminish  it.  It  is  insoluble  in  alcohol,  but  dissolves  with- 
out residue  in  dilute  hydrochloric,  nitric,  or  acetic  acid,  carbon  dioxide  being  copiously 
given  off. — U.  S. 

Tests. — “ For  applying  tests  of  identity  and  purity,  boil  6 Gm.  of  calcium  carbon- 
ate with  a mixture  of  50  Cc.  of  diluted  acetic  acid  and  50  Cc.  of  water ; allow  the  liquid 
to  cool,  and  filter.  In  this  solution  ammonium  oxalate  test-solution  produces  a white 
precipitate  insoluble  in  acetic,  but  soluble  in  hydrochloric  acid.  If  from  20  Cc.  of  this 
solution  the  calcium  be  completely  precipitated  by  a slight  excess  of  ammonium  oxalate 
test-solution,  the  filtrate  should,  on  evaporation,  leave  only  a trace  of  fixed  residue 
(limit  of  magnesium  and  alkalies).  If  10  Cc.  of  the  solution  be  slightly  acidulated 
with  acetic  acid,  no  immediate  turbidity  should  be  produced  by  the  addition  of  0.5  Cc. 
of  barium  chloride  test-solution  (limit  of  sulphate).  If  to  10  Cc.  of  the  solution,  slightly 
acidulated  with  nitric  acid,  0.1  Cc.  of  silver  nitrate  solution  be  added,  and  the  precipitate, 
if  any,  removed  by  filtration,  the  filtrate  should  remain  perfectly  clear  upon  addition  of 
more  silver  nitrate  solution  (limit  of  chloride).  Addition  of  ammonia-water  should  not 
produce  any  turbidity  in  the  solution  (absence  of  iron,  aluminum,  phosphate,  etc.).  If 
to  the  solution,  slightly  acidulated  with  acetic  acid,  an  equal  volume  of  hydrogen  sul- 
phide test-solution  be  added,  neither  color  nor  turbidity  should  be  produced  (absence  of 
arsenic,  lead,  etc.).  If  1 Gm.  of  the  salt  be  agitated  with  50  Cc.  of  water,  the  filtrate 
should  not  show  an  alkaline  reaction  with  litmus-paper,  and,  on  evaporation,  should  not 
leave  more  than  a trace  of  fixed  residue  (limit  of  soluble  impurities).” — V.  S. 

A substitution  of  calcium  sulphate  for  the  carbonate,  wholly  or  partly,  has  been  occa- 
sionally observed ; this  will  not  readily  dissolve  in  diluted  hydrochloric  acid,  with  little 
or  no  effervescence ; boiled  with  distilled  water  and  allowed  to  cool,  then  filtered,  a liquid 
will  be  obtained  giving  a white  precipitate  with  barium  chloride. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  preparation  differs  in  no  essential  particular  from  pre- 
pared chalk  ( v . Greta  prseparata'). 


CALCII  CHLORIDUM. 


371 


CALCn  CHLORIDUM,  TJ.  S.,  Br  — Calcium  Chloride. 

Calcium  chloratum,  Calcaria  muriatica , Chloridum  calcicum. — Chlorure  de  calcium , Fr. ; 
Chlorcalcium,  Calciumchlorid , G. ; Cloruro  di  calcio , It.,  Sp. 

Formula  CaCl2.  Molecular  weight  110.65. 

Calcium  chloride  deprived  of  its  water  by  fusion  at  the  lowest  possible  temperature. 
It  should  be  preserved  in  a well-stopped  bottle. 

Preparation. — This  compound  is  a by-product  in  many  chemical  processes,  among 
others  that  for  solution  of  ammonia.  It  may  be  formed  by  neutralizing  hydrochloric 
acid  with  marble  or  other  calcium  carbonate  ; CaC03  -j-  2HC1  yields  CaCl2  + C02  + H20. 
Iron  being  usually  contained  in  these  native  carbonates,  it  is  removed  by  digesting  the 
solution  with  chlorinated  lime  and  slaked  lime,  by  which  the  iron  is  first  converted  into 
ferric  chloride  and  then  precipitated  as  ferric  hydroxide.  The  filtrate,  which  will  be 
found  to  have  an  alkaline  reaction,  is  neutralized  with  hydrochloric  acid,  evaporated,  and 
dried  at  a temperature  of  200°  C.  (392°  F.).  The  whole  of  the  water  of  crystallization 
is  expelled  at  200°  C. ; the  Br.  P.  directs  the  salt  to  be  dried  at  204.5°  C.  (400°  F.),  and 
regards  its  composition  to  be  CaCl2.2H20  (mol.  weight  146.57). 

Properties. — Calcium  chloride  is  in  white,  dry,  but  very  deliquescent  inodorous 
masses,  and  has  a hot,  saline,  and  bitterish  sharp  taste.  When  the  salt  is  overheated  in 
fusing,  a small  quantity  of  chlorine  is  expelled  as  hydrochloric  acid  ; hence  the  anhydrous 
salt  usually  has  a faint  alkaline  reaction,  which  is  increased  at  a red  heat,  According  to 
Kremers  (1858),  1 part  of  the  anhydrous  salt  dissolves  at  10°  C.  (50°  F.)  in  1.58  parts, 
at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  in  1.46  parts,  at  20°  C.  (68°  F.)  in  1.35  parts,  at  40°  C.  (104°  F.)  in 
.83  part,  at  60°  C.  (140°  F.)  in  .72  part  of  water;  the  solution,  saturated  at  15°  C. 
(59°  F.),  has  the  specific  gravity  1.41104.  The  concentrated  solutions,  exposed  to  a low 
temperature,  deposit  transparent  crystals  of  the  salt  containing  6H20,  and  these  melt  in 
the  neighborhood  of  30°  C.  (86°  F.) ; when  evaporated  to  dryness  at  a temperature  not 
exceeding  150°  C.  (302°  F.)  a crystalline  powder,  CaCl2.2H20,  is  obtained,  which,  on 
being  mixed  with  two-thirds  its  weight  of  snow,  produces  a temperature  of  — 45°  C. 
( — 49°  F.).  The  anhydrous  salt  dissolves  in  about  8 parts  of  cold  absolute  alcohol,  and 
at  78.3°  C.  (174°  F.)  in  1.43  parts;  it  is  more  freely  soluble  in  alcohol  containing  water. 
These  solutions  are  precipitated  by  an  excess  of  ether,  and  on  concentration  and  cooling 
yield  soft  white  crystals  of  calcium  chloride,  combined  with  alcohol  (2C2H5OH)  or  with 
alcohol  and  water.  The  aqueous  solution  yields  with  ammonium  oxalate  a white  pre- 
cipitate insoluble  in  acetic  acid,  but  soluble  in  hydrochloric  acid,  and  with  silver  nitrate 
a white  precipitate  readily  soluble  in  ammonia  and  reprecipitated  by  nitric  acid. 

Tests. — “ The  aqueous  solution  (1  in  20)  should  remain  clear  upon  addition  of  am- 
monia-water (absence  of  iron,  aluminum,  etc.),  or  of  barium  chloride  test-solution 
(absence  of  sulphate).  If  from  20  Cc.  of  the  solution  the  calcium  be  completely  pre- 
cipitated by  ammonium  oxalate  test-solution,  the  filtrate  should,  on  evaporation,  leave 
not  more  than  a trace  of  fixed  residue  (limit  of  magnesium  and  alkalies).  If  5 Cc.  of 
the  aqueous  solution,  acidulated  with  hydrochloric  acid,  be  mixed  with  an  equal  volume 
of  hydrogen  sulphide  test-solution,  neither  color  nor  turbidity  should  appear  (absence  of 
arsenic,  lead,  etc).  No  turbidity  should  be  produced  by  the  addition  of  0.5  Cc.  of  potas- 
sium dichromate  test-solution  to  5 Cc.  of  the  aqueous  solution  (absence  of  barium).” — 
U.  S. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Calcium  chloride  is  used  for  the  drying  of  gases  and 
certain  liquids  and  in  the  preparation  of  various  calcium  salts.  For  the  latter  purpose  it 
is  directed  only  in  the  process  for  Calcii  carbonas  praecipitata. 

Liquor  calcii  chloridi,  Br. — Dissolve  calcium  chloride  88  grains  in  distilled  water 
1 ounce.  Spec.  grav.  1.145. 

Action  and  Uses. — Chloride  of  calcium  is  an  active  irritant,  and  in  excessive 
doses  may  occasion  gastro-intestinal  inflammation.  In  medicinal  doses  it  is  supposed  to 
have  a special  action  upon  the  glandular  system,  increasing  secretion,  removing  infarc- 
tions, etc.  It  has  been  used  very  successfully  to  reduce  scrofulous  swellings  of  the  exter- 
nal lymphatic  glands,  of  the  mesenteric  glands,  etc.,  and  in  strumous  diseases  of  the  skin, 
particularly  lupus.  In  the  latter  cases  it  should  be  associated  with  iodine, applied  locally. 
Some  attempts  have  been  made  to  revive  this  method.  In  1885  ( Practitioner , xxxv.  160) 
Dr.  Crighton  claimed  for  it  curative  powers  “ in  glandular  enlargements  of  the  neck  in 
children,  where  the  glands  seem  massed  together  and  are  almost  of  a stony  hardness  ;” 
in  similar  cases  in  which  suppuration  had  occurred  ; in  tabes  mesenterica  ; and  in  scrofulous 
caries.  Similar  results  were  reported  by  Mr.  Davies  (ibid.,  xxxvi.  12).  The  dose 


372 


CALCII  H Y POPH  OS  PHIS. 


employed  by  Crighton  was  Gm.  0.60-1.30  (gr.  x-xx),  or  more,  of  the  crystallized  chloride 
of  calcium  for  adults,  and  Gm.  0.13-0.20  (gr.  ij-iij)  for  children.  Davies  found  that 
very  much  larger  doses,  such  as  Gm.  2.50  (gr.  xl)  three  times  a day,  could  be  taken 
beneficially.  It  is  said  to  exhibit  peculiar  virtues  in  the  dyspeptic  disorders  to  which 
scrofulous  children  are  subject,  and  which  are  popularly  supposed  to  be  of  verminous 
origin,  such  as  restless  sleep,  capricious  appetite,  irregular  stools,  foul  breath,  and  enlarged 
tonsils.  (For  full  details  see  W.  Begbie,  Works,  Sydenham  Soc.  ed.,  p.  307.)  Physicians 
of  authority  have  affirmed  its  curative  power  in  cases  of  uterine  and  ovarian  tumors.  The 
only  “ tumors  ” which  contract  under  this  or  any  other  medicinal  treatment  are  the  so- 
called  muscular  tumors,  which  may  be  reduced  by  the  loss  of  their  liquid  constituents. 
The  use  of  the  medicine  is  not  unattended  with  risk.  If  persisted  in  fora  length  of  time, 
it  is  apt,  according  to  Wells,  to  bring  about  calcareous  degeneration  of  the  arteries 
generally.  Whatever  action  it  may  possess  in  arresting  the  growth  of  fibroids  probably 
depends  upon  this  property.  Dose,  from  Gm.  0.60-1.20  (gr.  x-xx),  taken  in  milk  or 
dissolved  in  a large  quantity  of  water.  The  old  “ solution  of  muriate  of  lime  ” (PA. 
Edin. ) contained  8 ounces  of  the  crystallized  salt  in  12  fluidounces  of  water.  Dose 
for  an  adult,  from  20  to  50  minims,  in  water  or  milk.  A syrup  has  been  prepared  which 
contains  5 ounces  of  the  crystallized  salt  in  12  fluidounces  of  the  excipient.  Dose , a 
teaspoonful. 

CALCn  HYPOPHOSPHIS,  U.  S.,  Br.- Calcium  Hypophosphite. 

Calcium  hypophosphorosum,  Calcaria  hypophosphorosa,  Dypophosphis  caldcus. — Hypo- 
phosphite  of  lime,  E. ; Hypophosphite  de  chaux,  Fr.  ; Calciumhypophosphit,  Unterphos- 
phorigsaurer  Kalk,  G. 

Formula  Ca(H2P02)2  or  CaH4(P02)2.  Molecular  weight  169.67. 

Preparation. — Calcium  hypophosphite  is  obtained  by  heating  phosphorus  with 
milk  of  lime,  inflammable  hydrogen  phosphide  being  given  off — namely,  3Ca(OH)2  -}- 
6H20  + 4P2  yields  3Ca(H2P02)2  + 2PH3.  Proctor  (1858)  uses  a deep  boiler,  in  which  a 
uniform  milk  is  made  with  4 pounds  of  burned  lime  and  5 gallons  of  water;  1 pound  of 
phosphorus  is  added,  and  the  whole  boiled,  boiling  water  being  added  from  time  to  time 
to  preserve  the  measure,  until  the  phosphorus  has  been  all  oxidized  and  the  strong  odor 
of  hydrogen  phosphide  has  disappeared.  The  mixture  is  filtered,  the  residue  washed 
with  water,  the  mixed  filtrate  evaporated  to  6 pints,  filtered  from  the  calcium  hydroxide 
and  carbonate,  and  again  evaporated  and  crystallized  or  granulated.  Nearly  half  the 
phosphorus  is  oxidized  to  phosphoric  acid,  probably  by  the  decomposition  of  water,  since 
the  escaping  gas  contains  free  hydrogen  (Wurtz)  and  remains  with  the  excess  of  lime  as 
calcium  phosphate.  E.  Scheffer  (1858)  succeeded  in  avoiding  much  of  this  loss  by  using 
phosphorus  which  had  been  previously  burned  under  water  by  passing  atmospheric  air 
into  it,  whereby  it  assumed  a spongy  appearance.  It  unites  then  with  the  lime  even  at 
the  ordinary  temperature,  but  more  readily  at  55°  C.  (about  130°  F.),  and  very  little 
spontaneously  inflammable  gas  is  generated.  The  salt  is  prepared  on  the  large  scale  by 
adding  granulated  phosphorus  to  milk  of  lime  and  exposing  the  mixture  to  the  air,  and 
agitating  frequently  until  the  phosphorus  has  disappeared.  A small  portion  of  hydrogen 
phosphide  is  evolved  (Gmelin-Kraut’s  Chemie).  It  is  well  to  precipitate  the  dissolved 
lime  by  passing  carbon  dioxide  through  the  warm  filtrate  and  by  filtering  again.  The  ob- 
servation previously  made  by  Wurtz,  that  hypophosphites  boiled  with  an  excess  of  alkali 
are  decomposed  into  hydrogen  and  phosphite  or  phosphate,  has  been  recently  confirmed 
by  W.  F.  Short  (1882)  for  the  calcium  salt  prepared  by  boiling  with  excess  of  lime. 

Properties. — Calcium  hypophosphite  crystallizes  in  transparent,  thin,  flexible  scales 
composed  of  flat  monoclinic  prisms,  but  is  usually  met  with  as  a white  crystalline  pow- 
der with  a pearly  lustre,  of  neutral  or  slightly  alkaline  reaction,  inodorous,  and  of  a 
bitter,  nauseous  taste.  In  the  dry  state  it  is  permanent  in  the  air,  but  when  dissolved  in 
wrater  it  is  gradually  oxidized  to  calcium  phosphate.  Heated  to  redness  in  a retort,  it 
decrepitates,  evolves  water,  spontaneously  inflammable  hydrogen  phosphide,  and  a little 
phosphorus,  and  leaves  nearly  80  per  cent,  of  a reddish  residue  containing  a little  amor- 
phous phosphorus  and  calcium  pyrophosphate.  The  salt  dissolves  in  6 parts  (6.8  parts, 
U.  S .)  of  cold  and  in  a slightly  less  amount  of  boiling  water ; it  is  insoluble  in  strong 
and  but  slightly  soluble  in  dilute  alcohol  (H.  Bose).  The  solution  yields  white  precipi- 
tates with  silver  nitrate  and  with  mercuric  chloride,  both  turning  dark  when  heated, 
from  a reduction  to  the  metallic  state.  Metallic  gold  is  precipitated  from  the  chloride, 
and  the  soluble  copper  salts  yield  with  the  solution,  particularly  on  heating,  metallic 


CALCII  TODAS. 


373 


copper.  Ammonium  oxalate  produces  in  the  solution  a white  precipitate  which  is  insol- 
uble in  acetic  acid,  but  dissolves  in  hydrochloric  acid. 

Tests. — “ If  1 Gm.  of  the  salt  be  dissolved  in  20  Cc.  of  water,  no  insoluble  residue 
should  be  left  (absence  of  phosphate,  sulphate,  and  other  insoluble  impurities).  In  this 
solution  no  precipitate  should  be  produced  by  the  addition  of  lead  acetate  test-solution 
(absence  of  soluble  phosphate) ; nor  after  acidulation  with  hydrochloric  acid,  by  barium  chlo- 
ride test-solution  (absence  of  soluble  sulphate)  ; or  by  an  equal  volume  of  hydrogen  sul- 
phide test-solution  (absence  of  arsenic,  etc.).  On  adding  to  5 Cc.  of  the  solution  (1  in  20) 
1 Cc.  each  of  ammonium  chloride  test-solution  and  ammonia-water,  and  3 Cc.  of  ammo- 
nium carbonate  test-solution,  applying  a gentle  heat  for  a few  minutes,  and  then  filter- 
ing, not  more  than  a very  slight  turbidity  should  be  produced  by  the  addition  to  the 
filtrate  of  a few  drops  of  sodium  phosphate  test-solution  (limit  of  magnesium).  If  0.1 
Gm.  of  calcium  hypophosphite  be  dissolved  in  10  Cc.  of  water,  then  mixed  with  10 
Cc.  of  sulphuric  acid  and  50  Cc.  of  decinormal  potassium  permanganate  solution,  and 
the  mixture  boiled  for  fifteen  minutes,  it  should  require  not  more  than  3 Cc.  of  deci- 
normal oxalic  acid  solution  to  discharge  the  red  color  (corresponding  to  at  least  99.68  per 
cent,  of  the  pure  salt).” — U.  S. 

In  the  official  volumetric  test  for  the  quality  of  the  salt  the  potassium  permanganate 
converts  the  hypophosphite  into  an  acid  phosphate,  according  to  tbe  equation  5CaH4(P02)2 
+ 8KMn04  + 12H2S04  = 5CaH4(P04)2  + 4K2S04  -f  8MnS04  + 12H2G ; the  excess  of 
permanganate  solution  added  is  determined  by  oxalic  acid,  and  hence  the  exact  quantity 
consumed  by  any  sample  of  hypophosphite  is  readily  ascertained.  Each  Cc.  decinormal 
permanganate  solution  corresponds  to  0.0021209  Gm.  calcium  hypophosphite  ; and  as 
each  Cc.  decinormal  oxalic  acid  solution  will  exactly  decolorize  1 Cc.  of  the  perman- 
ganate solution,  the  Pharmacopoeia  really  demands  50  — 3 = 47  Cc.  of  decinormal  per- 
manganate solution  for  the  oxidation  of  0.1  Gm.  calcium  hypophosphite,  47  Cc.  = 
(0.0021209  X 47)  0.0996823  of  calcium  hypophosphite,  which  is  equal  to  99.68  per  cent. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Syrupus  calcii  hypophosphitis.  Calcium  hypophos- 
phite 1 ounce;  Water  9£  fluidounces ; Sugar  12  ounces;  Essence  of  Vanilla  £ fluid- 
ounce.  Dissolve  and  mix  (Procter). 

Action  and  Uses. — On  theoretical  grounds  the  combinations  of  phosphorus  with 
lime  have  been  supposed  to  possess  a power  of  stimulating  and  regenerating  the  nervous 
system  and  those  tissues  which  contain  phosphorus  and  lime.  The  experiments  of  Perl 
( Virchow's  Archiv,  lxxiv.  54)  led  him  to  conclude  that  the  soluble  salts  of  lime  are  in  a 
slight  degree  absorbable,  and  therefore  capable  to  that  extent  of  acting  therapeutically 
when  the  normal  lime  compounds  of  the  body  are  deficient.  According  to  Dysart,  the 
lacto-phosphate  is  the  only  salt  of  lime  that  is  readily  appropriated  by  the  economy 
(. Practitioner , xxii.  375).  These  views  have  led  to  the  use  of  the  lime  salts  in  anaemia , 
scrofula , caries , tuberculosis , and  other  cachectic  conditions  ; in  chlorosis  and  menorrhagia  ; 
in  fractures  uniting  slowly  or  imperfectly ; in  rickets  and  in  Pott's  disease  ; and  in  various 
chronic  projluvia  connected  with  a feeble  and  often  strumous  state  of  the  system.  The 
claims  made  for  these  preparations,  independently  of  other  and  more  efficient  medicines 
(iron,  cod-liver  oil)  and  hygienic  influences,  consist  largely  of  assertion  without  evidence, 
and  are  too  slender  to  be  seriously  entertained.  Nevertheless,  as  the  preparations  of 
lime  in  question  are  innocuous,  there  is  no  reason  why  the  degree  of  benefit  they  confer, 
however  slight,  should  not  be  taken  advantage  of  in  the  various  cachexiae  mentioned. 
Dose , Gm.  0.30-0.40  (gr.  v-vj)  or  more  at  meal-times.  The  syrup  of  the  hypophosphite 
of  calcium  may  be  used  in  doses  Gm.  4 (F^j ) . 

CALCII  IODAS.— Calcium  Iodatb. 

Iodate  de  chanx , Fr. ; Jodsaurer  Kalk , G. 

Formula  Ca(I03)2.6H20.  Molecular  weight  496.49. 

Preparation. — The  following  process  was  proposed  by  W.  Flight  (1864) : An 
alcoholic  solution  of  iodine  is  gradually  mixed  with  an  excess  of  a filtered  aqueous  solu- 
tion of  chlorinated  lime,  care  being  taken  to  prevent  the  increase  of  temperature,  so  that 
the  formation  of  iodine  chloride  shall  not  be  permitted.  The  chlorinated  lime  oxidizes 
the  iodine,  calcium  iodate  being  precipitated,  while  calcium  chloride  and  hydrochloric 
acid  remain  in  solution  ; 5Ca(C10)2  + 2I2  + 2H20  yields  2Ca(I03)2  + 3CaCl2  + 4HC1. 
Reichardt  (1874)  directs  the  use  of  iodine  with  an  excess  of  chlorinated  lime  diffused 
in  water.  After  decolorization  the  mixture  is  slightly  acidulated  with  hydrochloric 
acid,  heated  to  boiling,  and  the  filtered  solution  crystallized. 


374 


CALCII  IODID UM. — CALCII  PHOSPHAS  PR^CIPITATUS. 


Properties. — Calcium  iodate  crystallizes  from  water  in  flat,  colorless,  shining 
needles,  which  are  slowly  efflorescent  on  exposure,  require  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  about  300 
parts  of  water  for  solution,  and  are  nearly  insoluble  in  alcohol.  The  aqueous  solution 
yields  a white  precipitate  with  ammonium  oxalate,  and  liberates  iodine  on  the  addi- 
tion of  sulphurous  acid. 

CALCH  10 DIDUM.— Calcium  Iodide. 

Calcium  Iodatum. — lodure  de  calcium , Fr. ; Jodcalcium , Calciumjodid , G. 

Formula  Cal2.  Molecular  weight  292.97. 

Preparation. — The  salt  is  obtained  on  dissolving  slaked  lime  in  hydriodic  acid  and 
evaporating ; or,  3 parts  of  iodine  are  digested  with  sufficient  iron  and  water  until  a 
green  solution  of  ferrous  iodide  is  obtained.  The  liquid  is  filtered  and  mixed  with  1 
part  of  iodine,  and  after  this  has  been  dissolved  it  is  boiled  with  milk  of  lime  prepared 
with  1 part  of  burnt  lime,  until  the  iron  has  been  precipitated ; the  liquid  is  then  filtered 
and  evaporated. 

Properties. — Calcium  iodide  is  a white  salt  which  crystallizes  with  difficulty  in 
pearly  scales.  It  is  freely  soluble  in  alcohol  and  water,  and  is  very  deliquescent.  100 
parts  of  water  dissolve  at  0°  C.  (32°  F.)  192,  at  20°  C.  (68°  F.)  204,  and  at  92°  C. 
(197.6°  F.)  435  parts  of  the  salt.  On  exposure  to  the  air  the  solution  is  partly  decom- 
posed, calcium  carbonate  being  precipitated.  The  solution  yields  a white  precipitate 
with  ammonium  oxalate,  and  a bright  red  one  with  corrosive  sublimate. 

Tests. — On  mixing  the  solution  with  sulphurous  acid  and  cupric  sulphate  in  excess 
and  heating  the  mixture,  a grayish  precipitate  of  cuprous  iodide  is  produced,  and  the 
filtrate  yields  no  precipitate  on  the  addition  of  silver  nitrate  (absence  of  chloride  and 
bromide). 

Action  and  Uses. — Experiments  seem  to  show  that  this  salt  arrests  putrefactive 
fermentation,  deodorizes  fecal  matter,  and  acts  as  an  irritant  upon  the  living  tissues. 
Given  internally,  in  doses  of  from  Gm.  0.06-0.20  (gr.  j-iij)  three  times  a day,  it  is  alleged 
to  arrest  erysipelas , diminish  and  deodorize  suppurative  discharges , and  promote  the  cure 
of  scrofulous  ulceration.  These  statements  call  for  confirmation,  and  even  more  do  its 
claims  to  extraordinary  efficacy  in  pulmonary  phthisis. 

CALOII  PHOSPHAS  PR^IOIPITATUS,  U.  Precipitated  Calcium 

Phosphate. 

Calcii phosphas,  Br.  ; Calcium  phosphoricum , P.  G. ; Calcaria  phosphorica,  Phosphas 
calcicus  prsecipitatus.— -Precipitated  'phosphate  of  lime , E.;  Phosphate  de  chaux  hydrate , Fr. ; 
Calciumphosphat , Phosphorsaure  Kalkerde , G. 

Formula  Ca3(P04)2.  Molecular  weight  309.33. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Bone-ash  4 ounces  ; Hydrochloric  Acid  6 fluidounces ; 
Water  2 pints;  Solution  of  Ammonia  12  fluidounces  or  a sufficiency;  Distilled  water 
a sufficiency.  Digest  the  bone-ash  in  the  hydrochloric  acid,  diluted  writh  a pint  of  water, 
until  it  is  dissolved ; boil  for  a few  minutes  ; filter  ; add  the  remainder  of  the  water, 
and  afterward  the  solution  of  ammonia,  until  the  mixture  acquires  an  alkaline  reaction  ; 
and,  having  collected  the  precipitate  on  a calico  filter,  wash  it  with  boiling  distilled  water 
as  long  as  the  liquid  which  passes  through  occasions  a precipitate  when  dropped  into 
solution  of  nitrate  of  silver  acidulated  with  nitric  acid.  Dry  the  washed  product  at  a 
temperature  not  exceeding  100°  C.  (212°  F.). — Br. 

The  process  of  the  U.  S.  P.  1370  was  identical  with  the  above.  By  dissolving  the 
bone-earth  in  hydrochloric  acid,  acid  calcium  phosphate,  CaH4(P04).2,  and  calcium  chloride, 
CaCl2,  are  formed  ; on  the  addition  of  ammonia  the  result  is  ammonium  chloride,  water,  and 
tricalcium  phosphate,  the  latter  of  which  precipitates  ; CaH4(P04)2  -f-  2CaCl2  -j-  4NH4OH 
yields  4NH4C1  4-  4H20  + Ca3(P04)2.  The  ammonium  chloride  is  removed  by  washing 
with  water.  If  the  precipitation  is  effected  in  the  cold  the  calcium  phosphate  is  very  volu- 
minous and  the  washing  is  quite  difficult.  The  calcium  phosphate  of  the  German  Pharma- 
copoeia is  prepared  by  precipitating  a solution  of  calcium  chloride  with  sodium  phosphate, 
has  the  composition  CaHP04.2H20,  is  more  readily  soluble  than  the  above  salt,  and  when 
heated  to  redness  loses  26  per  cent,  of  water. 

Properties  and  Tests. — This  preparation  is  often  called  hone  phosphate  to  distin- 
guish it  from  other  calcium  phosphates ; it  forms  a light  white,  amorphous,  permanent 
powder,  which  at  an  intense  white  heat  fuses  without  decomposition  and  on  cooling  yields 


CALC1I  SULPHAS  EXSICCA  TUS. 


375 


a porcelain-like  mass.  When  fused  with  sodium  carbonate  or  digested  with  a solution  of 
this  salt  it  is  partly  decomposed,  with  the  formation  of  calcium  carbonate.  It  is  insolu- 
ble in  water  and  other  simple  solvents ; almost  insoluble  in  acetic  acid,  but  somewhat 
soluble  in  solutions  of  sodium  chloride  and  other  neutral  alkali  salts.  Continued  boiling 
with  water  induces  decomposition,  with  the  formation  of  basic  phosphate,  Ca5(P04)30H, 
and  of  hydrophosphate,  CaHP04.  “ When  moistened  with  silver  nitrate  test-solution  a 
yellow  color  is  assumed  by  the  salt  either  before  or  after  ignition  (distinction  from  acid 
calcium  phosphate,  which,  after  ignition,  remains  white  when  moistened  with  silver 
nitrate).  For  applying  tests  of  identity  and  purity,  shake  2 Gm.  of  the  salt  with  20  Cc. 
of  water,  and  add  nitric  acid,  drop  by  drop,  until  solution  is  effected  ; then  add  water  to 
make  the  liquid  measure  40  Cc.  No  effervescence  should  occur  on  adding  the  acid 
(absence  of  carbonate).  From  a portion  of  this  solution  the  salt  is  precipitated  unchanged 
by  a slight  excess  of  ammonia-water.  From  another  portion  ammonium  molybdate 
test-solution  precipitates  yellow  ammonium  phosphomolybdate  ; the  reaction  is  accelerated 
by  a gentle  heat.  If  to  5 Cc.  of  the  solution,  acidulated  with  nitric  acid,  0.5  Cc.  of  silver 
nitrate  test-solution  be  added,  not  more  than  a slight  turbidity  should  result  (limit  of 
chloride).  The  clear  solution  should  not  be  rendered  turbid  by  barium  chloride  test-solu- 
tion (absence  of  sulphate)  ; nor  by  potassium  sulphate  test-solution  (barium)  ; nor  by  an 
equal  volume  of  hydrogen  sulphide  test-solution  (arsenic,  lead,  etc.)  ; nor  should  it  be 
colored  blue  by  potassium  ferrocyanide  test-solution  (iron).  If  5 Cc.  of  the  solution  be 
mixed  with  1 Cc.  of  sodium  acetate  test-solution,  and  then  with  ammonium  oxalate  test- 
solution,  until  the  calcium  is  completely  precipitated,  the  filtrate  should  not  be  rendered 
very  turbid  by  adding  ammonia-water  in  slight  excess  (limit  of  magnesium).” — U.  S. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Syrupus  calcii  phosphatis.  1 troyounce  of  calcium 
phosphate  dissolved  with  sufficient  hydrochloric  (or  preferably  phosphoric)  acid,  avoiding 
excess  of  acid,  and  sufficient  syrup  to  make  1 pint  (Wiegand,  1854).  The  syrups  of 
chlorhydrophosphate  and  of  acid  calcium  phosphate,  as  used  in  France,  are  little  more 
than  one-fourth  the  strength  of  the  preceding. 

Action  and  Uses. — If  this  compound  and  its  preparations  possess  medicinal 
virtues,  they  are  chiefly  those  of  the  hypophosphite  of  lime,  which  is  treated  of  else- 
where. There  is,  however,  sufficient  reason  for  believing  that  they  are  not  assimilated 
at  all.  Yet  they  have  been  used  with  reputed  advantage  in  mollities  ossium , and  also  to 
promote  the  consolidation  of  fractures  in  which  the  formation  of  callus  is  slow  or  imper- 
fect. The  dose  of  the  phosphate  is  from  Gm.  0.60-1.60  (gr.  x-xxx),  and  may  con- 
veniently be  given  in  carbonic-acid  water.  Phosphate  of  lime  has  also  been  used  to 
check  the  colliquative  sweats  of  phthisis  ( Amer . Jour.  Med.  Sci..  Apr.  1887,  p.  530),  and 
topically  for  the  treatment  of  tubercular  disease  of  the  joints  ( Centralbl.  f.  M ’,  v.  383— 
385). 

“ Physiological  phosphate  of  lime  ” is  the  name  given  to  the  residue  of  bones  when 
their  animal  matter  has  been  removed  by  caustic  soda.  Reduced  to  a fine  powder  and 
mixed  with  bread  in  the  proportion  of  1 per  cent.,  it  has  been  thought  useful  in  the 
conditions  above  named. 

CALCn  SULPHAS  EXSICCATUS,  U.  S.— Dried  Calcium  Sulphate. 

Calcii  sulphas,  Br. ; Calcium  sulfuricum  ustum , P.  G. ; Dried  gypsum,  Plaster  of  Paris,  E.; 
Pldtre,  Fr. ; Gebrannter  Gyps , G. 

A powder  containing  about  95  per  cent,  of  calcium  sulphate  (CaS04,  mol.  weight 
135.73)  and  about  5 per  cent,  of  water. — U.  S. 

Preparation. — Native  calcium  sulphate  is  carefully  heated  until  about  three-fourths 
of  its  water  has  been  expelled. — U.  S. 

It  should  be  preserved  in  well-closed  vessels,  to  prevent  the  gradual  absorption  of 
moisture  from  the  atmosphere. 

Properties. — “ Dried  gypsum  occurs  as  an  amorphous  white  powder,  without  taste 
or  odor,  and  when  mixed  with  half  its  weight  of  water  it  forms  a smoofffi  paste  which 
rapidly  hardens.  It  is  soluble  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  in  about  410  parts  of  water,  at  38°  C. 
(100.4°  F.)  in  388  parts,  and  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  in  476  parts.  It  is  insoluble  in 
alcohol,  but  dissolves  readily  in  diluted  nitric  or  hydrochloric  acid,  also  in  saturated  solu- 
tions of  potassium  nitrate,  sodium  thiosulphate,  and  of  various  ammonium  salts. 
Heated  to  above  204°  C.  (399.2°  F.),  dried  gypsum  becomes  anhydrous,  and  loses  the 
property  of  forming  a paste  with  water  and  hardening  rapidly.  Its  saturated  solution 
in  water  should  be  neutral  to  litmus-paper,  and  forms  white  precipitate  with  alcohol  and 


376 


CALCII  SULPHIS. 


with  solutions  of  ammonium  oxalate  and  of  barium  chloride.  The  addition  of  diluted 
acids  to  dried  gypsum  should  not  cause  effervescence  (absence  of  carbonate).” — U.  S. 

Calcii  sulphas. — Native  calcium  sulphate.  CaS04  -f  2H,0.  Mol.  weight  171.65. 
Gypsum,  E. ; Solfate  de  chaux,  Fr. ; Calciumsulfat,  Schwefelsaurer  Kalk,  Gyps,  G. — 
This  compound  is  met  with  in  nature  in  the  form  of  transparent  prisms  known  as 
selenite,  and  in  semi-opaque  masses  which  are  called  alabaster  and  gypsum.  The  same 
compound  is  precipitated  on  adding  sulphuric  acid  or  a sulphate  to  a solution  of  a cal- 
cium salt.  It  is  a white,  crystalline  powder,  insoluble  in  alcohol,  but  soluble  in  380 
parts  of  cold  or  450  parts  of  boiling  water. 

Surgical  Uses. — Plaster  of  Paris  is  used  for  making  casts  of  deformities  and  sur- 
gical injuries,  and  as  one  of  the  articles  adapted  for  applying  the  so-called  immovable 
apparatus  intended  to  retain  broken  bones  in  a fixed  position.  “ A roller  of  coarse,  soft 
muslin  must  have  dry  plaster  of  Paris  thoroughly  rubbed  into  its  meshes  ; some  cold 
water  is  then  to  be  poured  upon  either  end  of  it,  so  as  to  moisten  it  through.  A dry 
roller  having  been  previously  applied  to  the  limb,  the  wetted  plaster  bandage  must  be 

smoothly  rolled  upon  it,  the  surgeon  taking  care  that  no  reverses  are  made It 

hardens  in  the  course  of  a few  minutes,  and  as  it  dries  forms  a solid,  hard,  and  light 
casing  to  the  limb.  It  has  the  advantage  over  the  starch  apparatus  of  being  lighter,  and 
especially  of  drying  and  hardening  quickly  ” (Erichsen).  Some  surgeons  recommend 
“ crinoline,”  and  others  “ cheese-cloth,”  in  preference  to  muslin  as  a material  for  the 
bandages,  on  account  of  the  larger  meshes  of  their  web ; and  it  is  suggested  to  impreg- 
nate the  fabric  with  the  powdered  plaster  of  Paris  by  passing  it  through  a box  contain- 
ing this  substance  ( Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  Sept.  1887,  p.  204).  To  render  the 
plaster  less  brittle  it  is  sometimes  mixed  with  mucilage,  which  however,  causes  it  to  dry 
more  slowly.  The  chest-bandage  may  be  converted  into  a jacket  by  cutting  it,  when  dry, 
down  the  middle  of  the  front  and  finishing  the  edges  with  eyelet-holes  and  lacings.  (See 
Med.  Record,  xvi.  487). 

This  bandage  has  been  regarded  as  peculiarly  suited  to  the  treatment  of  simple,  com- 
pound, and  comminuted  fractures  of  the  limbs,  ribs,  and  pelvis,  and  of  Pott’s  disease  of 
the  spine.  It  is  employed  by  surgeons  as  the  best  form  of  immovable  apparatus,  provided 
that  it  be  judiciously  and  skilfully  applied ; but  some  object  that,  owing  to  the  conceal- 
ment of  the  seat  of  injury,  cures  with  shortening,  deformity,  etc.  are  more  common 
with  the  use  of  the  immovable  than  with  other  apparatus.  In  treating  angular  curvature 
of  the  spine  the  patient  is  partially  suspended  by  the  head  and  shoulders,  or  is  lying 
prone  in  a canvas  hammock,  while  the  bandage  is  applied.  But  full  extension  is  held  to 
be  dangerous.  It  is  used  in  lateral  curvature  also,  in  the  various  deformities  of  the 
ankle  and  knee-joints , and  to  sustain  the  dressings  after  Pirogoff’s  amputation.  (For 
further  information  compare  Med.  Record,  xxi.  11,  xxvi.  428;  Med.-Chir.  Trans.,  lxiv. 
295 ; Therap.  Gaz.,  xvi.  297). 

CALCII  SULPHIS. — Calcium  Sulphite. 

Sulfite  de  chaux , Fr.  ; Sehwefligsaurer  Kalk,  G. 

Formula  CaS03. 2£TjO.  Molecular  weight  155.69. 

Preparation. — 4 parts  of  slaked  lime  are  intimately  mixed  with  1 part  of  water ; 
the  mixture  is  spread  out  in  thin  layers,  and  sulphur  dioxide  passed  into  the  vessel  or 
chamber  as  long  as  it  is  absorbed ; or  the  gas  is  passed  into  milk  of  lime  and  the  result- 
ing precipitate  dried. 

Properties. — Calcium  sulphite  is  a white  powder  requiring  800  parts  of  cold  water 
for  solution : it  dissolves  readily  in  aqueous  sulphurous  acid,  and  crystallizes  from  this 
solution  in  hexagonal  prisms.  It  has  a slight  sulphurous  taste,  and  on  exposure  is  gradu- 
ally converted  into  calcium  sulphate. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  local  action  of  this  sulphite  appears  to  be  very  slight, 
since  when  administered  to  dogs  in  very  large  doses  it  does  not  occasion  any  signs  of 
gastro-intestinal  irritation.  This  fact  is  referable,  in  part  at  least,  to  the  great  insolu- 
bility of  the  compound.  It  appears  to  be  absorbed  and  excreted  without  change  in  the 
urine.  It  limits  fermentation  and  putrefaction  in  the  digestive  organs,  like  other  com- 
pounds of  sulphurous  and  hyposulphurous  acids  (see  Acidum  Sulphurosum),  and  may 
be  applied  externally  for  the  same  purposes  and  to  stimulate  indolent  ulcers,  etc.  The 
very  large  quantities  which  are  considered  necessary  for  securing  its  effects  render  its 
internal  administration  as  difficult  as  it  is  indeed  superfluous,  considering  the  number  of 
soluble  sulphites  and  hyposulphites  available. 


CA  LEND  ULA . — CA  LL I TRICHE. 


377 


CALENDULA,  U.  Calendula. 

Marigold , E. ; Souct , Fleur  de  tous  les  mois , Fr. ; Ringelblume , Todtenblume,  G. 

The  florets  of  Calendula  officinalis,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Composite,  Cynareae. 

Origin. — The  garden  marigold  is  an  annual  plant,  a native  of  Southern  Europe  and 
the  Levant,  and  is  frequently  cultivated  for  ornament.  It  has  a spreading  somewhat 
angular  and  roughish-hairy  stem,  3 to  6 M (a  foot  or  two)  high,  and  alternate,  sessile, 
rather  fleshy,  hairy,  and  entire  or  few-toothed  leaves,  of  which  the  lower  ones  are  spatulate 
or  obovate,  and  the  upper  ones  varying  between  oblanceolate  and  lance-oblong.  The 
flower-heads  are  terminal,  about  5 Cm.  (2  inches)  broad,  have  a fiattish,  hemispherical 
involucre,  with  two  rows  of  nearly  equal  linear-lanceolate  scales,  enclosing  a flat  recep- 
tacle without  chaff,  one  or  several  rows  of  ray-florets,  varying  in  color  from  light-yellow 
to  orange,  and  numerous  disk-florets,  which  are  tubular,  five-cleft,  yellow,  staminate,  and 
barren.  The  akenes  are  strongly  incurved  or  coiled,  and  more  or  less  muricate,  those  of 
the  outer  row  distinctly  winged,  those  of  the  inner  rows  with  slight  or  no  wings.  The 
fresh  plant  has  a rather  strong  and  heavy  somewhat  narcotic  odor  and  a bitter  some- 
what saline  taste.  After  drying  the  plant  has  but  little  odor  and  a weaker  taste. 

Description. — The  florets  as  found  in  commerce  are  about  12  Mm.  (£  inch)  long 
and  3 Mm.  (|  inch)  wide,  and  are  the  ray  florets  of  the  flower-heads.  They  are  linear  and 
strap-shaped,  three-toothed  above,  and  possess  a delicate  longitudinal  venation.  The 
florets  contain  in  the  short  hairy  tube  remnants  of  a filiform  style,  which  is  terminated 
by  two  elongated  branches.  In  color  they  vary  from  yellow  to  orange,  but  on  exposure 
to  sunlight  they  become  of  a whitish  tint.  The  taste  is  somewhat  bitter  and  slightly 
saline,  and  the  odor  is  slight  and  somewhat  heavy. 

Substitution. — In  1867  we  called  attention  to  the  fact  that  the  flower-heads  of 
Tagetes  erecta,  Linne , were  sold  as  calendula,  and  we  believe  that  much  of  the  fluid 
extract  of  calendula  at  present  in  the  market  is  really  obtained  from  the  species  named 
and  from  Tag.  patula,  Limit.  These  two  plants  are  indigenous  to  Mexico  and  tropical 
America,  but  are  often  cultivated  under  the  names  of  French  or  African  marigold. 
They  have  pinnatifid  leaves  and  showy  flowers,  with  the  scales  of  the  involucre  united 
to  form  a tube,  the  receptacle  naked,  and  the  ray-florets  broadly  ligulate,  toothed,  light 
or  deep  orange-colored,  sometimes  (T.  patula)  striped  with  red ; the  akenes  are  fiattish, 
slender,  and  crowned  with  a few  chaffy  or  awned  scales. 

Composition, — Calendula  was  analyzed  by  Geiger  (1818),  who,  besides  the  usual 
constituents  of  herbs,  found  in  it  an  amorphous  bitter  principle  and  calendulin , which  is 
yellowish,  tasteless,  insoluble  in  ether,  soluble  in  alcohol,  and  swelling  with  water  into  a 
transparent  jelly. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  leaves  and  the  unexpanded  flowers  were  at  one  time 
supposed  to  possess  stimulant  and  resolutive  virtues,  and  were  used  in  congestions  of  the 
liver,  jaundice,  amenorrhoea,  scrofula , and  even  in  typhoid  febrile  states.  Both  internally 
and  externally  marigold  was  employed  in  the  treatment  of  cancer,  and  was  thought  to 
dispose  cancerous  ulcers  to  heal.  A solution  of  the  extract  and  a decoction  of  the  herb 
were  employed  for  this  purpose.  A saturated  tincture  of  the  flowers  is  said  to  promote 
the  cure  of  contusions,  wounds,  and  simple  ulcers;  but  alcohol  under  various  forms  has 
done  the  same.  A tincture  of  calendula  has  (1881)  been  recommended  in  suppurative 
otitis , but  as  it  was  mixed  with  boracic  acid,  which  was  alone  competent  to  the  cure,  the 
efficacy  of  the  tincture  may  be  doubted  ( New  York  Med.  Record,  xx.  729).  The  extract 
is  alleged  to  have  been  very  efficient  in  allaying  chronic  vomiting,  as  well  as  for  the 
purposes  above  enumerated.  It  was  given  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.10  (gr.  ij)  several  times  a 
day. 

C ALLITRICHE.  — W ater-Starwqrt. 

Callitriche  verna,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Halorageae. 

Description. — The  plant  is  a native  of  Europe,  and  of  North  America  from  Penn- 
sylvania and  New  Jersey  northward.  It  grows  in  stagnant  waters,  and  sluggish  rivulets, 
has  a stem  .3  to  .6  M.  (1  or  2 feet)  long,  radiating  at  the  nodes,  and  nearly  sessile, 
obovate,  entire,  and  three-nerved  floating  leaves,  which  are  crowded  in  a tuft  and  about 
8 Mm.  (£  inch)  long ; the  submerged  leaves  are  longer  and  linear,  the  flowers  monoecious 
and  inconspicuous. 


378 


CALUMBA. 


A closely-allied  species,  Call,  heterophylla,  Pursh , which  is  common  in  the  Southern 
United  States,  has  broadly  spatulate  and  petiolate  floating  leaves,  and  is  used  for  the 
same  purpose  as  the  Northern  water-starwort. 

Action  and  Uses. — Water-starwort  is  esteemed  in  the  Southern  States  as  a diuretic 
in  dropsy , and  is  administered  in  the  form  of  a tincture  or  in  spirits  saturated  with  the 
plant.  In  decoction  it  is  given  to  horses  to  promote  diuresis. 


CALUMBA,  U.  S. — Calumba. 

Calumbse  radix , Br. ; Radix  Colombo , P.  Gr. ; Radix  columbo. — Columbo , E. ; Colombe , 
Fr.,  Sp. ; Kolombowurzel,  Gr. ; Colombo , F.  It. 

The  root  of  Jateorrhiza  palmata  ( Lamarck ) Miers , s.  Cocculus  palmatus,  De  Can- 
dolle. Bot.  Mag.  2970,  2971 ; Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 13. 

Nat,  Ord. — Menispermacese. 

Origin. — Besides  the  plant  named  above,  Jateorrhiza  Calumba,  Miers,  s.  Cocculus 
palmatus,  Wallich,  has  been  named  as  the  source  of  the  drug.  The  distinctive  charac- 
ters, supposed  to  depend  upon  the  shape  of  the  basal  lobes  of  the  leaves  and  the 
presence  or  absence  of  hairs  in  the  male  inflorescence,  were  proven  by  Hanbury  to  be 
unimportant  and  to  exist  on  the  same  stem ; hence  he  suppressed  the  name  of  a sup- 
posed species,  retaining  that  of  J.  palmata.  Bentley  agrees  with  these  views,  but 
retains  the  name  of  J.  Calumba.  The  name  is  derived  from  kalurnb , the  African  name 
of  the  root. 

The  plant  is  indigenous  to  the  forests  of  Mozambique,  in  the  southern  portion  of 
Eastern  Africa,  quite  abundant  along  the  lower  Zambesi  Biver,  and  cultivated  in  some 
African  and  East  Indian  islands.  It  is  a hairy  perennial  climber,  which  reaches  the 
summits  of  lofty  trees,  has  large  nearly  orbicular,  cordate,  and  palmately-lobed  leaves,  and 
dioecious  flowers.  It  grows  from  a short,  thick,  and  irregular  rhizome,  and  this  gives  off 
numerous  fusiform  roots,  which  are  the  portion  collected  during  the  dry  season,  cut  into 
transverse  slices,  and  dried  in  the  shade. 

Description. — Columbo-root  exists  in  commerce  in  nearly  circular  disks,  having  a 
diameter  of  25  to  63  Mm.  (1  to  2J  inches),  and  a thickness  of  about  6 to!2  Mm.  (?  to 


I inch).  From  the  considerable  shrinking  of  the  parenchyma  the 
central  portion  is  quite  depressed,  but  the  meditullium  shows  two  or 
three  circles  of  projecting  and  radiating  vascular  bundles,  and  upon  a 
fresh  section  the  dark-colored  cambium  line  becomes  plainly  discern- 
ible, together  with  the  numerous  radiating  dark-colored  and  narrow 
bast-wedges.  The  fresh  section  is  of  a light  or  grayish-yellow  color, 
more  yellowish-brown  in  the  outer  bark,  which  externally  showrs  a 
gray-brown  cork.  The  root  breaks  very  readily  in  all  directions  with 
a short  and  mealy  fracture ; its  odor  is  slight,  more  prominent  and 
characteristic  on  powdering  or  moistening  ; the  taste  is  slightly  aromatic, 
persistently  bitter,  and  at  the  same  time  mucilaginous.  As  imported 
it  is  often  more  or  less  worm-eaten. 

Fig.  43. 


• stop 


Fig.  44. 


Calumba:  transverse  section,  natural  size. 

Colombo-root  enters  commerce  directly  from  Zanzibar  or  through 


Bombay  and  other  Indian  ports.  38,115  pounds  were  received  in 

the  United  States  in  1882  ; during  the  preceding  year  only  8336  pounds 


Calumba  : trans.  section 
through  the  outer  por- 
tion ; mag.  25  diam. 


CALX. 


379 


Constituents. — Columbo-root  has  been  analyzed  by  Planche,  Wittstock,  Buchner, 
Lebourdais,  and  Boedeker.  Columbin  was  obtained  by  Wittstock  (1830)  by  evaporating 
the  ethereal  tincture  of  the  root.  Boedeker  (1849)  prefers  to  obtain  it  by  shaking  the 
turbid  aqueous  solution  of  the  alcoholic  extract  with  ether.  It  forms  colorless,  inodorous, 
and  very  bitter  prisms  and  needles,  and  is  soluble  in  alkalies  and  hot  alcohol,  and  in  acetic 
acid,  less  so  in  cold  alcohol  and  ether,  and  nearly  insoluble  in  water.  Boedeker  found  the 
yellow  color  of  the  cell-walls  due  to  berberine , which  exists  probably  in  combination  with 
the  straw-yellow  bitter  columbic  acid;  the  latter  is  almost  insoluble  in  cold  water,  spar- 
ingly soluble  in  cold  ether,  freely  in  alkalies  and  alcohol ; the  last  two  principles  are  prob- 
ably formed  from  the  first.  Columbin  is  C4,H440,4;  the  addition  of  ammonia,  NIB,  may 
result  in  the  formation  of  berberine,  C20HnNO4,  columbic  acid,  C22H2407,  and  3H20.  Buch- 
ner (1831)  found  in  columbo-root  also  35  per  cent,  of  starch,  17  of  pectin,  4.7  of  gum,  5 
of  yellow  resin,  and  a little  wax.  The  root  yields  about  6 per  cent,  of  ash. 

Substitutions. — The  roots  of  bryonia  and  of  Frasera  Walteri,  which  have  been 
occasionally  sold  as  columbo,  have  scarcely  any  resemblance  to  it,  and  are  readily  dis- 
tinguished by  their  color  and  by  the  absence  of  the  dark  cambium  zone  and  radiating 
lines. 

Action  and  Uses. — Colombine  is  said,  in  small  doses,  to  augment  the  secretion  of 
the  liver  and  gastro-intestinal  glands,  but  in  large  doses  to  act  as  an  emeto-cathartic 
(Boux).  Calumba  is  a pure  stimulant  stomachic  tonic,  increasing  the  appetite  and 
improving  the  digestion,  It  does  not  constipate.  The  experiments  of  Tschelzoff  led 
him  to  conclusions  regarding  the  action  of  vegetable  bitters,  including  calumba,  which 
are  opposed  to  universal  experience  (Bull,  de  Therap .,  cxi.  90).  He  found  that  they 
lessen  the  secretion  of  the  gastric  juice  as  well  as  its  digestive  power;  that  they  have  no 
influence  on  the  secretion  of  bile ; that  they  rather  promote  than  restrain  gastric  fermen- 
tation, etc.  These  conclusions  have  been  corroborated  by  the  careful  experiments  of 
Reichmann,  who,  however,  concluded  that  bitters  are  especially  indicated  when  the 
secretion  of  the  gastric  juice  is  diminished  ( Archives  gen.,  Nov.  1888.  p.  614),  but 
they  do  not  seriously  impair  the  value  of  the  opposite  testimony  of  physicians  in  every 
age.  In  India  calumba  has  long  been  used  in  the  treatment  of  diarrhoea , cholera  morbus , 
and  dysentery , and  in  Europe  it  has  been  found  an  efficient  remedy  for  the  vomiting  and 
purging  incident  to  teething,  for  atonic  dyspepsia , the  vomiting  of  pregnancy,  etc.  Its 
special  mode  of  action  appears  to  depend  chiefly  upon  its  constituted,  berberine  (see 
Berberis),  although  the  associated  colombine,  which  is  intensely  bitter,  probably  enhances 
the  tonic  power  of  the  medicine.  In  order  to  preserve  the  infusion  it  may  be  prepared  as 
follows : Take  1 ounce  of  powdered  columbo,  1 ounce  of  powdered  orange-peel,  2 ounces 
of  brandy,  and  14  ounces  of  water.  Macerate  for  twelve  hours  and  filter.  Or  it  may  be 
prepared  more  quickly  by  displacement.  If  a laxative  operation  is  desired,  rhubarb  may 
be  added  to  the  materials.  The  dose  of  columbo  in  powder  is  from  Gm.  0.60—2.00  (gr. 
x-xxx).  In  this  form  it  may  be  associated  with  carbonate  of  iron  and  a little  ginger 
or  orange-peel.  The  simple  infusion,  which  is  no  longer  officinal,  is  made  with  Gm.  .16 
(1  troyounce)  of  columbo  to  Gm.  250  (a  pint)  of  water.  Dose , Gm.  32-64  (fgj— ij). 

CALX,  V.  S.,  Bv, — Limb. 

Calcaria  usta , P.  G. ; Calcii  oxidum , Calcaria,  Calx  viva , Calx  vsta , Oxydum  calcicuin. 
— Burned  lime , E. ; Chaux , Chaux  vive,  Fr. ; Kalk , Aetzkalk , Gebrannter  Kalk , G. ; Ossido 
di  calcio , It.,  Sp. 

Formula  CaO.  Molecular  weight  55.87. 

Lime  prepared  by  burning  white  marble,  oyster-shells,  or  the  purest  varieties  of 
natural  calcium  carbonate.  It  should  be  kept  in  well-closed  vessels  in  a dry  place. — U.  S. 

Preparation. — Lime  is  an  alkaline  earth  which  is  obtained  by  calcining  native  cal- 
cium carbonate,  such  as  chalk,  limestone,  or  marble,  by  which  carbon  dioxide  is  given 
off,  calcium  oxide  remaining  behind  ; CaC03  is  decomposed  into  C02  + CaO.  Prepared 
on  the  large  scale  from  native  carbonates,  it  contains  also  the  impurities  naturally  exist- 
ing therein,  such  as  magnesia,  ferric  oxide,  alkali  salts,  silica,  and  clay.  If  the  latter 
is  present  in  sufficient  quantity,  it  will  slake  feebly  or  not  at  all,  and  is  then  called  poor 
or  over-burnt.  To  obtain  pure  lime,  pure  calcium  carbonate  should  be  employed,  and  if 
the  calcining  has  been  done  in  a crucible  the  resulting  mass  should  be  moistened  with 
water  and  again  calcined  to  expel  the  carbon  dioxide  completely.  The  same  effect  is  pro- 
duced on  the  large  scale  by  constructiug  the  lime-kiln  in  such  a manner  that  the  products 
of  combustion  pass  over  the  limestone. 


380 


CALX. 


Calcii  hydras,  Br. ; Calcaria  hydrica. — Slaked  lime,  Calcium  hydroxide,  Calcium 
hydrate,  E.  ; Chaux  eteinte,  Chaux  hydratee,  Fr. ; Kalkhydrat,  Geloschter  Kalk,  G. — 
Formula  Ca(OH)2.  Molecular  weight  73.83. 

The  British  Pharmacopoeia  gives  the  following  directions  for  preparing  it : Take  of 
Lime  2 pounds;  Distilled  Water  1 pint  (Imperial).  Place  the  lime  in  a metal  pot,  pour 
the  water  upon  it,  and  when  the  vapor  ceases  to  be  disengaged  cover  the  pot  with  its  lid 
and  set  it  aside  to  cool.  When  the  temperature  has  fallen  to  that  of  the  atmosphere,  put 
the  slaked  lime  on  an  iron  wire  sieve  and  by  gentle  agitation  cause  the  fine  powder  to 
pass  through  the  sieve,  rejecting  what  is  left.  Put  the  powder  into  a well-stopped  bottle 
and  keep  it  excluded  as  much  as  possible  from  the  air.  Slaked  lime  should  be  recently 
prepared. 

Properties. — Burnt  lime  is  in  hard  white  or  grayish-white,  porous  masses  of  the 
specific  gravity  3.1  to  3.2.  It  is  fusible  with  difficulty  only  before  the  oxyhydrogen 
blowpipe,  giving  off  a splendid  red  light,  but  is  not  otherwise  altered.  It  is  inodorous, 
and  has  an  alkaline  reaction  and  a caustic,  burning  taste.  When  mixed  with  about  one- 
half  its  weight  of  water  it  absorbs  the  latter,  the  air  being  at  the  same  time  expelled  from 
the  pores  with  a hissing  noise ; it  then  becomes  heated  and  is  converted  into  slaked  lime, 
particles  of  this  being  mechanically  carried  up  by  the  vapors ; moistened  with  a small 
quantity  of  water,  lime  becomes  luminous  in  the  dark.  At  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  it  requires 
about  750  parts  of  water  for  solution,  but  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  over  1300  parts  are 
necessary ; hence  a solution  of  lime  saturated  in  the  cold  becomes  turbid  on  being  heated. 
Exposed  to  the  air,  it  absorbs  water  and  carbon  dioxide  and  is  converted  into  calcium 
hydroxide  and  carbonate. 

Slaked  lime  forms  a soft  white  powder  of  spec.  grav.  2.08  and  of  a strong  alkaline  taste 
and  reaction.  It  does  not  part  with  its  water  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.),  and  becomes  com- 
pletely anhydrous  only  at  a dull  red  heat,  without  melting  previously.  On  exposure  to 
the  air  it  is  converted  into  calcium  carbonate.  When  lime  is  slaked,  or  slaked  lime  is 
mixed  with  about  3 or  4 parts  of  water  to  form  a thin  magma,  the  mixture  is  called  milk 
of  lime. 

Tests. — “ If  1 part  of  lime  be  slaked,  and  then  thoroughly  mixed  with  50  parts  of 
water,  and  the  greater  portion  of  the  milky  liquid  decanted,  no  hard,  gritty  particles 
should  be  found  in  the  residue,  nor  should  the  addition  of  hydrochloric  acid  to  this 
residue  cause  much  effervescence  (limit  of  carbonate)  nor  leave  more  than  a slight, 
insoluble  residue.  If  the  decanted  portion  be  dissolved  in  acetic  acid  and  filtered,  if 
necessary,  a portion  of  the  filtrate  should  not  be  rendered  turbid  by  potassium  dichromate 
test-solution  (absence  of  barium).  In  another  portion  of  the  filtrate  the  addition  of 
ammonia-water  should  not  produce  more  than  a slight  turbidity  (limit  of  aluminum,  etc).” 

— U.  S. 

Salts. — Slaked  lime  decomposes  most  of  the  alkali  and  metallic  salts  by  combining 
with  their  acids  and  forming  calcium  salts , which  are  colorless  unless  the  acid  be  colored, 
have  a neutral  reaction  upon  test-paper,  and  impart  to  the  flame  of  the  blowpipe  a yel- 
lowish-red color.  Lime  salts  soluble  in  water  are  not  precipitated  by  ammonia,  but  yield 
white  precipitates  with  ammonium  carbonate,  phosphate,  and  oxalate,  and  with  sulphuric 
acid,  the  latter  precipitate  being  soluble  in  a large  quantity  of  water,  and  the  former 
ones  in  acetic  acid,  with  the  exception  of  the  oxalate.  Those  salts  which  are  insoluble 
in  water  are  dissolved  by  dilute  hydrochloric  acid,  and  this  solution  is  not  disturbed  (that 
of  calcium  oxalate  excepted)  when  solution  of  sodium  acetate  is  added  in  excess ; but  if 
to  this  liquid  a solution  of  ammonium  oxalate  is  added,  all  the  calcium  will  be  precipi- 
tated as  calcium  oxalate. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — On  account  of  its  affinity  for  water,  lime  is  employed  in 
preparing  absolute  alcohol  and  strong  ether ; its  affinity  for  acids  renders  it  useful  in  the 
preparation  of  alkalies  (ammonia,  potassa,  soda),  alkaloids  (quinine,  strychnine,  etc.),  and 
certain  organic  acids  and  allied  compounds  (santonin).  It  is  employed  in  preparing  pre- 
cipitated sulphur,  in  the  manufacture  of  chlorinated  lime  and  potassium  chlorate,  and  in 
many  other  chemical  processes. 

Action  and  Uses. — Owing  to  its  strong  affinity  for  organic  elements,  unslaked 
lime  causes  the  decomposition  of  organized  matter,  and  thus  favors  the  solution  of  the 
animal  and  vegetable  constituents  of  soils.  With  albumen  it  forms  a horny  mass.  In 
like  manner  it  is  employed  to  arrest  putrefactive  fermentation  in  the  stools  of  infective 
diseases,  such  as  cholera , typhoid  fever , and  dysentery ; in  cesspools,  sewers,  slaughter- 
houses, dissecting-rooms,  etc.  It  is  used  by  tanners  to  remove  the  hair  and  cuticle  from 
hides.  It  has  a less  affinity  for  water  than  the  alkalies,  and  is  therefore  a less  energetic 


CALX  CHLORATA. 


381 


caustic,  but  in  forming  a hydrate  it  evolves  a large  amount  of  heat,  so  that  when  taken 
internally  in  large  doses  it  inflames  the  mucous  membrane  of  the  throat,  oesophagus,  etc., 
and  even  causes  ulceration  and  gangrene  of  these  organs  and  of  the  stomach,  and  death, 
As  a caustic,  quicklime  has  been  employed  from  time  immemorial.  It  was  usually 
mixed  with  sulphuret  of  arsenic  in  the  treatment  of  indolent  and  unhealthy  ulcers  and 
for  removing  superfluous  hair  from  the  skin.  Quicklime  may  also  be  used  to  destroy 
nsevi  and  to  establish  issues , for  which  purposes  a fragment  of  freshly-prepared  lime 
should  be  laid  upon  the  skin,  protected  by  adhesive  plaster  with  a proper  opening  in  it, 
and  moistened  with  a few  drops  of  water.  The  heat  produced  is  estimated  at  350°  F., 
and  so  rapidly  destroys  the  organization  of  the  skin  that  the  lime  ought  to  be  removed 
before  it  is  entirely  exhausted  in  order  to  prevent  too  deep  an  eschar.  Mixed  with  wood- 
ashes,  it  has  been  employed  in  the  treatment  of  favus , and  in  an  ointment  containing  1 
part  of  lime  to  20  or  30  of  lard  for  the  cure  of  psoriasis  and  indolent  ulcers.  The  caustic 
action  of  lime  may  be  limited  by  vinegar  or  other  dilute  vegetable  acid. 

CALX  CHLORATA,  77.  Chlorinated  Lime. 

Calx  chlorinata,  Br.,  U.  S.  1870  ; Calcaria  chlorata,  P.  G.  ; Chloris  calcicus , Chloruretum 
calcis , Calcii  hypochloris. — Chloride  of  lime , Calcium  hypochlorite , Bleaching -powder,  E.  ; 
Chlorure  de  chaux , Poudre  de  Tennant  ou  de  Knox , Fr. ; Chlorhalh , Bleichkal/c , G. 

A compound  resulting  from  the  action  of  chlorine  upon  calcium  hydroxide,  and  con- 
taining at  least  35  per  cent.  U.  8.  (33  per  cent.  Br .,  25  per  cent.  P.  G .)  of  available  chlo- 
rine. Chlorinated  lime  should  be  preserved  in  well-closed  vessels  in  a cool  and  dry 
place.  This  preparation  is  often  improperly  called  “ Chloride  of  Lime.” 

Preparation  and  Composition. — Chlorinated  lime  was  first  prepared  on  an 
extensive  scale  by  C.  Tennant  and  Knox  of  Glasgow  in  1799,  and  is  manufactured  in 
essentially  the  same  manner  at  the  present  time,  the  improvements  introduced  at  various 
times  consisting  in  perfecting  the  apparatus  and  the  production  of  chlorine.  Well-slaked 
lime,  free  from  dampness,  is  rubbed  through  a sieve,  and  the  powder  thus  obtained  is 
spread  upon  shelves  which  are  placed  in  several  tiers  in  boxes  or  chambers,  into  which 
dry  chlorine  gas  is  conducted  from  the  top  as  long  as  it  is  absorbed,  care  being  taken  to 
regulate  the  current  of  gas  in  such  a manner  that  the  temperature  within  the  chambers 
does  not  rise  higher  than  25°  C.  (77°  F.),  in  order  to  avoid  the  formation  of  calcium 
chlorate.  According  to  Lunge  (1881),  in  the  presence  of  an  excess  of  about  4 per  cent, 
of  moisture,  in  the  calcium  hydroxide,  and  at  a temperature  of  about  40°  C.  (104°  F.), 
a product  containing  43  per  cent,  of  available  chlorine  may  be  obtained. 

The  oldest  view  concerning  the  composition  of  chlorinated  lime  admits  of  a direct  com- 
bination and  the  formation  of  CaOCl2,  and  since  the  whole  amount  of  slaked  lime  cannot 
be  thus  converted,  a portion  of  it  was  supposed  to  form  a double  compound  with  it, 
having  the  composition  2(Ca0Cl2.H20)  + Ca(OH)2.  But  it  is  now  generally  admitted 
that  a decomposition  takes  place,  the  precise  nature  of  which  is,  however,  by  no  means 
fully  established.  It  has  been  assumed  that  the  reaction  occurs  between  two  molecules 
each  of  calcium  hydroxide  and  chlorine.  2Ca(OII)2  -f-  2C12  may  form  CaCl2  + Ca(C10)2 
+ 2H20 ; that  is,  calcium  chloride,  calcium  hypochlorite,  and  water,  which  have  been 
by  some  supposed  to  be  merely  mixed  together ; but  since  alcohol  does  not  dissolve  one- 
half  of  the  chlorine  as  CaCl2,  others  have  regarded  them  to  be  combined,  forming  CaCl2.- 
Ca(C10)2.2H20.  Schorlemmer  (1873)  adopted  the  view  previously  suggested  by  Odling, 
that  chlorinated  lime  is  calcium  hypochlorite,  in  which  1 CIO  is  replaced  by  Cl ; that  its 
formula  is  therefore  Ca(C10)Cl,  and  that  with  water  this  compound  yields  calcium  hypo- 
chlorite and  chloride.  If  either  of  the  above  be  the  true  composition  of  chlorinated 
lime,  it  should  contain  about  49  per  cent,  of  available  chlorine,  while  in  fact  it  contains 
much  less.  This  deficiency  has  been  ascribed  to  various  causes,  but  mainly  to  the  diffi- 
culty or  impossibility  of  exactly  forming  calcium  hydroxide  without  excess  or  deficiency 
of  water,  both  of  which  causes  act  injuriously;  the  formation  of  some  calcium  chlorate 
under  certain  circumstances  likewise  accounts  for  a part  of  the  loss.  Fresenius  and 
F.  Rose  (1861)  regarded  dry  chlorinated  lime  as  a compound  of  calcium  hypochlorite 
and  oxychloride  with  4H20,  formed  according  to  the  equation  4Ca(OII)2  -f-  2C1§  = Ca- 
(C10)2.Ca302Cl24H20,  and  that  this  compound  is  decomposed  by  water  into  calcium 
hypochlorite,  chloride,  and  hydroxide.  C.  Stahlschmidt  (1876)  expressed  the  view  that 
chlorinated  lime  may  be  considered  as  a calcium  hydroxide  in  which  1 atom  of  hydrogen  is 
replaced  by  Cl,  and  that  its  formation  is  explained  by  the  equation  3Ca(OH)2  -j-  2Cl2  — 
2CaHC102.CaCl2.2H20,  which  requires  an  amount  of  active  chlorine  equal  to  nearly  39 


382 


CALX  CHLORATA. 


per  cent,  of  the  product ; which  result  may  he  attained  in  practice.  In  certain  cases, 
however,  nearly  43  per  cent,  of  chlorine  has  been  reached,  and  this  is  accounted  for  by 
the  presence  of  some  moisture,  by  which  the  above  calcium  chlorohydrate,  as  it  may  he 
called,  is  decomposed  into  calcium  hypochlorite  and  hydroxide,  Ca(C10)2  + Ca(OH)2, 
the  latter  of  which,  with  more  chlorine,  yielding  again  chlorohydrate ; but  to  complete 
the  conversion  into  calcium  hypochlorite  (and  chloride)  a much  larger  amount  of  water 
seems  to  be  necessary  than  could  he  retained  by  dry  chlorinated  lime.  That  aqueous 
solutions  of  chlorinated  lime  contain  calcium  hypochlorite  was  proven  by  Kingzett,  who 
obtained  this  salt  from  concentrated  solutions  of  the  former  placed  in  a freezing  mixture 
or  evaporated  in  a vacuum  over  sulphuric  acid.  Schorlemmer,  Lunge,  and  others  have 
shown  that  with  nitric  or  sulphuric  acid  carefully  added,  avoiding  excess,  a distillate 
containing  hypochlorous  acid  is  obtained ; that  carbonic  acid  liberates  in  the  solution 
hypochlorous  acid ; and  that,  after  exhausting  chlorinated  lime  with  little  water,  the 
subsequent  solutions  contain  calcium  and  chlorine  uniformly  in  the  proportion  required 
by  the  formula  Ca(C10)Cl. 

Properties. — Chlorinated  lime  is  a. white  or  whitish  powder  or  in  friable  lumps,  dry 
or  but  slightly  damp,  with  a feeble  odor  of  chlorine  and  a disagreeable  bitter  and  saline 
taste.  Under  various  circumstances  it  may  undergo  decomposition  on  keeping,  either 
with  the  evolution  of  oxygen  or  by  conversion  into  a mixture  of  calcium  chloride  and 
chlorate.  On  exposure  to  the  air  it  absorbs  and  combines  with  carbon  dioxide  and 
becomes  moist.  It  has  an  alkaline  reaction,  but  finally  bleaches  test-paper.  It  is  partly 
soluble  in  water  and  in  alcohol,  wholly  soluble  in  dilute  acetic  acid  (not  more  than  a tri- 
fling residue  of  insoluble  matter  should  be  left,  U.  S.)>  with  the  evolution  of  chlorine  and 
the  production  of  calcium  chloride ; 2Ca(C10)Cl  or  Ca(C10)2.CaCl2  + 4HC1  yields  2C12 
-j-  2CaCl2  + 2H20.  If  chlorinated  lime  contains  a larger  percentage  of  calcium  chloride 
than  is  indicated  by  one  of  the  above  formulas,  its  chlorine  will  not  be  liberated,  and  is 
therefore  not  available  chlorine  for  bleaching  purposes.  The  same  decomposition  is 
effected  by  an  excess  of  all  acids  except  carbonic,  which  liberates  hypochlorous  acid. 
The  solution  in  diluted  acetic  acid  shows  the  presence  of  lime  by  yielding  with  ammo- 
nium oxalate  a white  precipitate  soluble  in  hydrochloric  acid.  The  aqueous  solution, 
mixed  with  manganese  dioxide,  mercuric,  ferric,  and  other  oxides,  evolves  oxygen 
(Mitscherlich),  and  if  ammonium  sulphate  be  added  nitrogen  is  given  off  (Calvert,  1870). 
The  solution  in  the  presence  of  carbonic  or  other  acid  rapidly  destroys  vegetable  colors, 
and  this  property  finds  extensive  application  in  the  arts.  Distilled  with  alcohol,  wood- 
spirit,  some  volatile  oils,  etc.,  chlorinated  lime  generates  chloroform,  and  when  it  is 
mixed  with  certain  organic  substances  in  the  dry  state  a gradual  decomposition  and 
development  of  heat  take  place,  and  may  result  at  last  in  an  explosion.  The  sponta- 
neous explosions  of  chlorinated  lime  which  are  on  record  may  probably  be  referred  to 
such  a cause. 

Tests. — The  solution  of  chlorinated  lime  in  diluted  hydrochloric  acid  may  be  tested 
for  impurities  in  the  same  manner  as  a solution  of  calcium  carbonate.  The  most  import- 
ant determination,  however,  is  that  of  the  amount  of  available  or  active  chlorine  present, 
and  depends  upon  its  oxidizing  power.  The  methods  in  use  are  oxidation  of  arsenous 
oxide  or  of  ferrous  sulphate  or  of  sodium  thiosulphate,  in  the  last  case  preceded  by  the 
liberation  of  iodine.  The  process  adopted  is  as  follows : “ If  0.35  Gm.  of  chlorinated 
lime  be  thoroughly  triturated  with  50  Cc.  of  water  and  carefully  transferred,  together  with 
the  washings,  into  a flask,  and  then  0.8  Gm.  of  potassium  iodide  and  5 Cc.  of  diluted 
hydrochloric  acid  added,  the  reddish-brown  liquid,  to  which,  toward  the  end  of  the  titra- 
tion, a few  drops  of  starch  test-solution  are  added,  should  require,  for  complete  decol- 
oration, not  less  than  35  Cc.  of  decinormal  sodium  thiosulphate  solution  (each  Cc.  cor- 
responding to  1 per  cent,  of  available  chlorine).” — U.  S.  “10  grains,  mixed  with  30 
grains  of  potassium  iodide  and  dissolved  in  8 fluidounces  of  water,  produce,  when  acidu- 
lated with  2 fluidrachms  of  hydrochloric  acid,  a reddish  solution  which  requires  for  the 
discharge  of  its  color  at  least  934  grain-measures  of  the  volumetric  solution  of  sodium 
thiosulphate,  corresponding  to  not  less  than  33  per  cent,  of  chlorine.” — Br.  11  If 
0.5  Gm.  of  chlorinated  lime  be  triturated  with  20  Cc.  of  water,  and  to  this  liquid  be 
added  1 Gm.  of  potassium  iodide,  20  drops  of  hydrochloric  acid,  and  a little  starch  solu- 
tion, the  mixture  should  require  for  decoloration  at  least  35.2  Cc.  of  decinormal  solu- 
tion of  sodium  thiosulphate.” — P.  G.  In  the  first  part  of  these  processes  iodine  is 
liberated  from  the  potassium  salt,  thus  causing  the  red  color  of  the  solution  or  a blue 
color  in  the  presence  of  starch  ; the  addition  of  the  thiosulphate  causes  the  formation 
of  sodium  tetrathionate  and  iodide,  the  red  or  blue  color  disappearing  as  soon  as  all  the 


CALX  CHLORATA. 


383 


free  iodine  has  been  converted  into  the  latter  salt.  By  a slight  modification  the  test 
may  be  used  to  ascertain  the  true  percentage  of  available  chlorine. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses  and  Preparations. — Chlorinated  lime  is  largely 
employed  in  the  arts  for  bleaching  purposes;  it  is  used  in  preparing  chloroform  and 
Liquor  sodas  chlorinatas,  U.  S.  ; as  Vapor  chlori,  Br.,  it  is  used  in  the  moist  condition  ; 
and  Liquor  calcis  chloratae,  Br .,  is  a solution  of  it  in  water. 

Fumigatio  chlori,  P.  G.  1872.  For  stronger  fumigation  use  a mixture  of  table-salt 
and  manganese  dioxide,  each  1 part,  sulphuric  acid  2 parts,  previously  diluted  with 
1 part  of  water.  The  milder  fumigation  is  made  of  chlorinated  lime  mixed  with  water 
to  a soft  mass,  vinegar  being  afterward  added. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  action  of  chlorinated  lime  resembles  that  of  chlorine, 
with  a superadded  causticity  derived  from  the  lime  in  its  composition.  In  moderate 
doses  it  appears  sometimes  to  act  as  an  irritant  of  the  stomach  and  bowels,  and  if  the 
quantity  taken  be  large  it  produces  heat  in  these  organs,  nausea,  vomiting,  and  diarrhoea. 
If  used  in  a mouth-wash,  it  removes  acid,  bitter,  or  metallic  tastes.  Externally,  it  is  an 
active  irritant,  and  is  sometimes  moderately  caustic.  It  dries  suppurating  surfaces  and 
prevents  gangrenous  ulceration. 

In  solutions  of  the  strength  of  Gm.  1.50  (gr.  xx),  or  more,  to  the  ounce  of  water,  it  has 
been  regarded  as  a useful  stimulant  in  purulent  ophthalmia.  This  solution  on  lint  is 
efficacious  in  frost-bite  and  also  as  an  injection  in  gonorrhoea.  In  various  forms  of  ulcera- 
tion of  the  mouth , scorbutic,  gangrenous,  or  arising  merely  from  debility,  chlorinated  lime 
promotes  cicatrization,  and  is  useful  for  this  affection  in  scarlatina.  Indolent  and  spe- 
cific ulcers  of  other  parts,  and  burns , are  favorably  modified  by  its  use.  It  may  be 
included  among  the  means  of  curing  itch  when  applied  on  cloths  in  a solution  containing 
from  to  part  of  chlorinated  lime.  But  care  must  be  taken  lest  it  irritate  the  skin 
unduly. 

In  typhus  fever  it  has  been  thought  to  moisten  and  cleanse  the  tongue,  allay  delirium, 
and  revive  the  functions  of  the  skin.  It  tends  to  reduce  excessive  mucous  secretions, 
and  has  been  used  with  marked  advantage  in  the  treatment  of  phthisis  and  chronic  bron- 
chitis with  profuse  purulent  expectoration.  When  this  is  fetid  the  action  of  the  medi- 
cine is  peculiarly  efficient;  and  it  may  be  prescribed  in  atomized  inhalations  as  well  as 
by  the  stomach.  It  has  been  used  with  success  in  the  treatment  of  scrofulous  glands , 
both  internally  and  in  an  ointment.  Even  in  some  cases  of  enlarged  mesenteric  glands 
its  action  has  appeared  to  be  salutary. 

As  a disinfectant  chlorinated  lime  has  been  employed  under  a great  variety  of  circum- 
stances to  suspend  the  decomposition  of  organic  matter  and  neutralize  the  resulting  foul 
effluvia.  Besides  being  used  for  this  purpose  in  privies,  close-stools,  dissecting-rooms, 
sewers,  etc.,  it  has  proved  to  be  very  efficacious  in  correcting  the  foul  odors  connected 
with  putrefaction  in  the  living  body,  as  in  cases  of  retained  placenta  or  uterine  clots,  can- 
cer of  the  uterus  and  of  other  parts,  ozsena , mercurial  salivation , foul  breath  due  to  the  de- 
composition of  glandular  secretions  in  the  fauces,  the  fetor  exhaled  by  the  armpits , feet , 
etc.  A false  anology  led  to  its  use  for  preventing  contagion  by  the  sick  and  by  infected 
fomites,  but  there  is  no  reason  to  believe  that  its  influence  exceeded  that  of  the  various 
measures  of  purification  which  were  associated  with  it.  Chlorinated  lime  decomposes 
hydrosulphuric  acid,  hydrosulphuret  of  ammonia,  sulphuret  of  potassium,  and  hydrocy- 
anic acid,  and  may  therefore  be  used  as  a chemical  antidote  to  these  poisons.  Persons 
poisoned  by  privy  and  by  sewer  gases  have  been  restored  by  holding  a cloth  wet  with  a 
solution  of  this  substance  before  the  nostrils.  A similar  expedient  has  been  used  to  pro- 
tect persons  in  an  atmosphere  saturated  with  sulphuretted  hydrogen. 

The  dose  of  chlorinated  lime  is  from  Gm.  0.06-0.30  (gr.  j-v)  in  solution.  From  Gm. 
0.50—4.00  (gr.  x-lx),  dissolved  in  from  4 to  8 ounces  of  water  and  filtered,  may  be  given 
in  twenty-four  hours.  As  a mouth-wash  1 part  dissolved  in  100  of  water  may  be  used. 
For  external  use  the  most  energetic  form  of  the  preparation  is  that  of  a semi-fluid  paste  ; 
the  feeblest,  to  be  at  all  useful,  may  contain  Gm.  4 (gj)  of  chlorinated  lime  in  Gm.  250 
(8  ounces)  of  water.  An  ointment  for  dry  atonic  ulcers  may  be  made  with  equal  parts 
of  this  preparation  and  lard;  for  enlarged  glands,  etc.  the  proportion  of  Gm.  4 (3j)  to 
Gm.  32  (^j)  of  lard  is  sufficient. 


334 


CALX  SULPHUR  AT  A. 


CALX  SXJLPHURATA,  IT.  S.,  Br.- Sulphurated  Lime. 

Calcaria  sulfur  ata,  Hepar  sulphuris  calcareum,  Hepar  calcis. — Crude  calcium  sulphide , 
E. ; Sulfur e de  chaux,  F. ; Kalkschwefelleber , G. 

A mixture  containing  at  least  60  per  cent,  of  calcium  monosulphide  [CaS  = 71.89], 
together  with  unchanged  calcium  sulphate  [CaS04  = 135.73],  and  carbon,  in  varying  pro- 
portions.— U.  S. 

A mixture  containing  not  less  than  50  per  cent,  of  calcium  sulphide  (CaS). — Br. 

Preparation. — Pried  gypsum,  in  fine  powder,  70  Gm. ; Charcoal,  in  fine  powder, 
10  Gm. ; Starch,  2 Gm.  Mix  them  thoroughly,  pack  the  mixture  lightly  into  a crucible, 
cover  this  loosely,  and  heat  it  to  bright  redness  until  the  contents  have  lost  their  black 
color.  Allow  the  crucible  to  cool,  reduce  the  product  to  powder,  and  at  once  transfer  it 
to  small,  glass-stoppered  vials. — U.  S. 

In  place  of  metric  weights  the  following  proportions  may  be  used  in  avoirdupois 
weight : dried  gypsum  3?  ounces,  charcoal  £ ounce,  starch  44  grains. 

The  reaction  taking  place  when  the  mixture  is  heated  consists  in  the  oxidation  of  the 
charcoal  at  the  expense  of  the  calcium  sulphate,  a part  of  the  latter  being  converted 
into  calcium  sulphide,  CaS04  + C3  = CaS  C02  + 2(CO) ; the  resulting  carbon  monox- 
ide and  dioxide  pass  off  as  gases.  The  starch  assists  in  the  reduction. 

The  Br.  process  is  very  similar : Calcium  sulphate  (nearly  anhydrous)  7 oz.,  wood- 
charcoal  1 oz.,  both  in  fine  powder;  mix  thoroughly;  heat  to  redness  in  an  earthen  cru- 
cible until  the  black  color  has  disappeared ; cool,  and  at  once  place  the  whitish  residue  in 
a stoppered  bottle. 

Properties. — Sulphurated  lime  is  a pale-gray  powder,  gradually  altered  by  expo- 
sure to  the  air,  exhaling  a faint  odor  of  hydrogen  sulphide,  having  an  offensive  alkaline 
taste  and  an  alkaline  reaction,  very  slightly  soluble  in  water  and  insoluble  in  alcohol ; 
boiling  water  partially  decomposes  it.  On  dissolving  sulphurated  lime  with  the  aid  of 
acetic  acid,  hydrogen  sulphide  is  abundantly  given  off  and  a white  precipitate  (calcium 
sulphate)  is  thrown  down.  The  filtrate  yields,  with  test  solution  of  ammonium  oxalate, 
a white  precipitate  soluble  in  hydrochloric,  but  insoluble  in  acetic  acid. — U.  S. 

Tests. — “ If  1 Gm.  of  sulphurated  lime  be  gradually  added  to  a boiling  solution  of 
2.08  Gm.  of  cupric  sulphate  in  50  Cc.  of  water,  the  mixture  digested  on  a water-bath 
for  fifteen  minutes  and  filtered  when  cold,  no  color  should  be  imparted  to  the  filtrate  by 
1 drop  of  test  solution  of  potassium  ferrocyanide  (presence  of  at  least  60  per  cent,  of 
pure  calcium  monosulphide).” — U.  S.  The  equation,  CuS04.5H20  -f-  CaS  = CuS  -f- 
CaS04  -f-  5H20,  shows  that  248.8  parts  of  cupric  sulphate  require  71.89  parts  of  cal- 
cium sulphide  for  complete  decomposition  and  2.08  Gm.  will  therefore  require  0.601  + 
Gm.,  which  is  practically  60  per  cent,  of  1 Gm. 

Allied  Compounds. — Calcii  sulphidum,  s.  sulphuretum,  s.  sulfuratum. — Calcium  sulphide, 
E. ; Sulfure  de  calcium,  Fr. ; Schwefelcalcium,  G.  Formula  CaS.  Mol.  weight  71.89. — 
Nearly  pure  calcium  sulphide  is  obtained  by  intimately  mixing  12  parts  of  powdered  gypsum 
with  3 or  4 parts  of  lampblack  or  powdered  charcoal,  and  heating  the  mixture  in  a covered  cru- 
cible as  long  as  gas  is  given  off.  The  charcoal,  combining  with  the  oxygen  of  the  calcium  sul- 
phate, escapes  as  carbon  monoxide  or  dioxide,  and  leaves  calcium  sulphide,  CaS,  having  a gray- 
ish, yellowish,  or  reddish  color  from  impurities  naturally  present.  It  is  inodorous,  has  an 
alkaline  and  a sulphurous  taste,  dissolves  completely  in  500  parts  of  water,  and  is  gradually 
decomposed  by  water  into  calcium  hydroxide  and  hydrosulphide. 

Calcii  oxysulphuretum,  known  in  France  as  sulfure  de  calcium  or  foie  de  soufre  calcaire. 
Mix  sulphur  100  parts  ; slaked  lime  300  parts  ; water  500  parts  ; boil,  stirring  frequently,  until 
a portion  when  dropped  on  a cold  slab  will  solidify  ; then  pour  out  on  a marble  slab,  and  when 
cold  keep  the  mass  in  well-stopped  bottles. — F.  Cod.  It  has  a gray  or  greenish-gray  color,  and 
is  a variable  mixture  of  calcium  oxysulphide  and  thiosulphate  or  sulphate. 

A solution  known  in  France  as  sulfure  de  chaux  liquide  is  made  by  boiling  for  an  hour  2 
parts  of  lime  previously  slaked,  5 of  sublimed  sulphur,  and  20  of  water,  water  being  added  to 
preserve  the  original  amount;  the  filtrate  has  the  density  1.16. 

A soft  mass,  containing  calcium  hydrosulphide,  Ca2HS,  and  used  as  a depilatory,  is  prepared 
from  2 parts  of  slaked  lime  and  3 of  water  by  passing  into  the  mixture  hydrogen  sulphide 
as  long  as  it  is  absorbed.  The  mass,  known  as  Martin's  depilatory , has  a strong  sulphurous 
odor,  and  on  standing  separates  into  two  portions,  which  are  to  be  mixed  when  used ; if  proper- 
ly prepared,  an  application  for  eight  or  ten  minutes  is  sufficient  for  removing  the  hair. 

Phosphorescent  Powder  or  Paint.  Calcined  oyster-shells  or  cuttlefish-bone  100  parts ; 
caustic  lime  100  parts ; calcined  sodium  chloride  25  parts ; mix  and  thoroughly  incorporate 
from  20  to  25  per  cent,  (about  55  parts)  of  sulphur  and  from  3 to  7 per  cent,  (about  8 to  18 
parts)  of  calcium,  barium,  strontium,  or  magnesium  sulphide ; the  luminosity  may  be  increased 


CAMBOGIA. 


385 


bj  adding  incinerated  marine  algrn.  The  powder  is  rendered  adhesive  by  means  of  varnish, 
collodion,  etc.  After  exposure  to  the  sunlight  it  will  be  luminous  in  the  dark.  A similar 
compound  is  Canton's  phosphorus  (1768),  prepared  from  burnt  oyster-shell  2 parts  and  sulphur 
1 part. 

Action  and  Uses. — Sulphurated  lime  acts  as  an  irritant  and  corrosive,  and  is  seldom, 
if  ever,  used  internally.  It  is  decomposed  in  the  stomach,  liberating  sulphuretted  hy- 
drogen gas.  The  dose  of  it  internally  is  variously  stated  to  be  from  Gm.  0.006-0.03  (gr. 
J^-l)  and  from  Gm.  0.20-0.40  (gr.  iij-vj).  Externally,  it  is  sometimes  employed  in 
baths  containing  from  Gm.  32-128  (3j-iv)  of  the  salt  in  the  treatment  of  itch  and  certain 
obstinate  scaly  diseases  of  the  skin.  (See  Sulphur.)  It  has  also  been  used  in  an  ointment 
(1  to  10  parts  in  15  parts  of  lard)  for  similar  purposes,  and  as  an  ingredient  of  depilatory 
preparations. 

Calcium  sulphide  has  been  used,  like  potassium  sulphide,  in  local  and  general  baths 
for  chronic  diseases  of  the  skin,  chronic  rheumatism , etc.,  and  internally  for  chronic  bron- 
chitis, and  even  in  pulmonary  phthisis.  It  was  given  internally  in  doses  of  one-tenth  of 
a grain,  gradually  increased  to  a grain  (Gm.  0.004-0.06),  in  the  treatment  of  acne,  and 
with  alleged  success.  But  as  milk  of  sulphur  and  other  topical  applications,  as  well  as 
other  internal  treatment,  were  employed  at  the  same  time,  the  share  of  the  sulphide  in 
the  result  may  have  been,  and  probably  was,  very  small.  Its  use  in  the  treatment  of 
scabies  is  described  under  Sulphur  ; and  the  same  preparation  is  said  to  be  an  efficient 
remedy  for  ringworm  ( Tricophyton  tonsurans'). 

In  1869,  Dr.  Ringer  claimed  for  the  sulphides  generally,  but  especially  for  this  prepa- 
ration, the  power  of  arresting  suppuration  ( Therapeutics , p.  48;  ibid.,  1888,  p.  94), 
directing  1 grain  of  calcium  sulphide  to  be  dissolved  in  half  a pint  of  water,  and  a tea- 
spoonful of  the  solution  to  be  taken  every  hour.  Thus,  to  one-sixty-fourth  of  a grain  of 
this  compound,  so  administered,  was  ascribed  the  cure  of  scrofulous  and  tuberculous 
abscesses ! After  years  of  oblivion  this  method  was  revived  by  Dr.  F.  N.  Otis  ( New 
York  Med.  Jour.,  May,  1880),  who  claimed  for  it  the  power  of  arresting  the  suppuration 
of  buboes,  furuncles,  and  other  abscesses;  and  a case  was  published  in  which  the  cure  was 
attributed  to  it  of  a gastro-pulmonary  fistula  (. Phila . Med.  Times,  xi.  73).  Ultimately, 
a much  more  moderate  estimate  of  its  virtues  was  furnished  in  a report  to  the  Therapeu- 
tical Society  of  New  York.  It  concluded  “ that  in  many  cases  of  suppurative  affections, 
ranging  from  the  small  pustules  of  acne  to  extensive  suppurating  surfaces,  an  appre- 
ciable, and  often  a very  marked,  benefit  is  derived  from  the  use  of  calcium  sulphide. 

. . . . At  the  same  time,  its  action  is  not  uniform,  and  in  many  apparently  favorable  cases 
it  will  fail  entirely.  It  is  somewhat  prone  to  irritate  the  stomach.”  One-tenth  of  a 
grain  every  two  hours,  it  is  stated,  is  the  full  dose,  although  some  patients  will  bear  a grain 
three  or  four  times  a day.  “ It  will  occasionally  produce  headache  and  more  or  less 
eructation  of  sulphuretted  hydrogen”  ( Amer . Jour.  Med.  Sci .,  July,  1882,  p.  268). 
More  recently  it  has  been  vaunted  as  a remedy  for  leucorrhoea,  rhinitis,  and  glandular 
enlargements  ( Therap . Gaz .,  xii.  366);  and  the  prompt  cure  of  diphtheria  has  even  been 
attributed  by  Hubbard  to  the  use  of  a spray  from  a solution  made  from  lime,  1 part ; 
sulphur,  2 parts  ; water,  20  parts.  Slake  the  lime  with  part  of  the  water,  add  the  re- 
mainder and  the  sulphur;  boil  to  12  parts,  and  filter  ( Med . Record,  xxxiv.  703). 

CAMBOGIA,  U.  S.,  Br.— Gamboge. 

Gambogia,  U.  S.  1870;  Gutti,  P.  G. ; Gummi-resina  guttse , s.  gutti,  Gutta  gamba,  Cam- 
bodia.— Gutte,  Gomme-gutte,  Fr. ; Gummigutt , Gutti,  G.  ; Gomma  gotta,  F.  It. ; Goma  guta, 
Guta  gamba,  Sp. 

A gum-resin  obtained  from  Garcinia  Hanburii,  Hooker  filius.  Bentley  and  Trimen, 
Med.  Plants , 33. 

Mat.  Ord. — Guttiferae  (Cluciaceae). 

Origin. — A medium-sized  tree  with  glossy  laurel-like  leaves  and  small  yellow  dioecious 
flowers,  the  pistillate  ones  being  on  short  pedicles.  It  was  formerly  regarded  merely  as 
a variety  (pedieellata)  of  Garc.  Morelia,  Desroussea.ux  (s.  G.  pictoria,  Roxburgh ; G. 
Gutta,  Wight;  G.  cambogioides,  Royle ; Hebradendron  cambogioides,  Graham ),  and  is 
indigenous  to  Siam,  Cambodia,  and  Cochin  China.  Fliickiger  and  Hanbury  observed 
that  the  yellow  milk-juice  is  secreted  in  unbranched  ducts,  which  are  principally  located 
in  the  middle  bark,  and  to  a less  extent  in  the  dotted  vessels  of  the  alburnum,  in  the 
pith,  leaves,  flowers,  and  fruit.  Gamboge  is  obtained  by  incisions  made  into  the  bark, 
the  latex  being  collected  in  the  joint  of  a bamboo,  occasionally  also  in  other  vessels, 
where  it  is  allowed  to  harden. 

25 


386 


CA  M PH OR A. 


Description. — Gamboge  is  in  cylindrical,  either  solid  or  hollow,  straight  or  bent, 
sticks,  15  to  20  Cm.  (6  to  8 inches)  long  and  25  to  50  Mm.  (1  to  2 inches)  in  diameter, 
called  “ pipes the  surface  is  striated  longitudinally  from  impressions  of  the  bamboo, 
and  occasionally  contains  some  splinters  of  it.  Gamboge  breaks  easily  with  a fiattish 
conchoidal,  smooth  fracture  of  a a deep  orange-red  tint  and  in  a waxy,  somewhat  resinous 
lustre ; thin  splinters  are  slightly  translucent.  It  yields  a bright-yellow  powder,  and  on 
being  triturated  with  water  a uniform  bright-yellow  emulsion  is  readily  obtained.  This 
emulsion  forms  with  ammonia-water  a clear  deep-red  afterward  brown  solution,  and  with 
potassium  or  sodium  hydrate  an  orange-red  solution,  the  liquid  becoming  colorless  on  the 
addition  of  acids,  the  yellow  resin  being  precipitated.  Gamboge  is  inodorous,  but  the 
dust  is  sternutatory,  and  it  has  a disagreeable  acrid  taste.  Inferior  qualities  of  pipe 
gamboge  are  of  a brown  or  gray  tint,  harder,  of  a dull  earthy  or  irregular  fracture,  and 
less  inclined  to  produce  a uniform  emulsion. 

Cake  gamboge  has  been  collected  in  flat  vessels,  and  is  met  with  in  irregular  lumps, 
which  otherwise  resemble  pipe  gamboge,  but  are  more  liable  to  be  adulterated. 

Constituents. — Aside  from  accidental  impurities,  like  cellular  tissue,  gamboge  con- 
tains about  4 per  cent,  of  moisture,  the  remainder  being  resin,  and  16  to  20  per  cent,  of 
gummy  matter,  which  is  not  identical  writh  gum-arabic.  The  resin  is  called  cambogic 
acid , is  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  and  with  a deep-red  color  in  dilute  alkalies,  and  from  the 
latter  solution  is  precipitated  unaltered  by  acids ; its  solutions  yield  a yellow  precipitate 
with  lead  acetate,  and  brown  ones  with  iron  and  copper  salts.  By  fusing  it  with  caustic 
potassa,  Hlasiwetz  and  Barth  (1866)  observed  the  disengagement  of  vapors  having  the 
odor  of  lemon  and  melissa,  and  found  in  the  residue,  besides  acetic  and  volatile  fatty  acids, 
also  phloroglucin  and  pyrotartaric  and  two  other  acids.  Gamboge  is  free  from  starch,  and 
if  adulterated  with  it  an  emulsion  made  with  hot  water  will  turn  green  by  solution  of 
iodine,  or  it  may  be  recognized  in  the  residue  left  after  treatment  with  alcohol  and  cold 
water. 

Action  and  Uses. — In  man,  applied  to  the  raw  skin,  gamboge  acts  as  an  irritant. 
Internally,  in  small  doses,  it  appears  to  increase  the  glandular  secretions,  but  in  large 
doses  causes  vomiting,  colic,  and  tenesmus.  But  there  is  no  evidence  of  its  increasing 
the  secretion  of  bile.  In  doses  of  Gm.  0.20—0.25  (gr.  iij-iv)  it  occasions  liquid  stools, 
with  little  or  no  colic.  Rutherford’s  experiments  led  him  to  conclude  that  gamboge  is 
not  a cholagogue,  although  it  violently  irritates  not  only  the  duodenum,  but  the  whole 
of  the  small  intestine.  He  remarks  that  colchicum,  which  is  equally  irritant,  is  decid- 
edly cholagogue,  and  infers,  therefore,  that  duodenal  irritation  alone  is  not  sufficient  to 
increase  the  excretion  of  bile.  The  purgative  virtue  of  gamboge  appears  to  reside  in 
its  resinous  element.  When  given  in  small  and  repeated  doses  it  is  said  to  cause  diuresis. 
There  is  no  evidence  of  its  ever  having  produced  fatal  effects. 

Gamboge  is  seldom  employed  unless  associated  wdth  other  purgatives.  It  is  reputed 
to  be  well  adapted  for  relieving  such  congested  states  of  the  liver  as  arise  from  malarial 
causes.  In  these  cases  it  is  usually  associated  with  calomel.  As  a hydragogue , acting 
by  the  kidneys  as  well  as  the  bowels,  its  merits  appear  to  be  well  established.  For  this 
purpose  it  should  be  given  in  small  and  repeated  doses,  such  as  Gm.  0.01  (gr.  -^)  every 
hour,  dissolved  in  sweetened  water.  It  is  often  associated  with  jalap  and  with  bitar- 
trate of  potassium.  Its  want  of  taste  fits  it  for  use  by  children.  It  is  sometimes  em- 
ployed as  a vermifuge , and  is  then  usually  prescribed  with  vermicide  medicines. 

Gamboge  is  administered  in  substance  in  the  average  dose  of  Gm.  0.06-0.30  (gr.  j— v). 
It  is  most  efficient  when  mixed  with  water  and  sugar.  A convenient  formula  is  the 
following  : R.  Gamboge  gr.  x ; Carbonate  of  potassium  £j  ; Cinnamon-water  fSij- — Mix. 
S. — 30  drops  three  times  a day  in  water. 

CAMPHORA,  U.  S.,  Br.,  B.  G.-Camphor. 

Camphre , Fr. ; Kampfer , Campher , G. : Canfora,  F.  It.  ; Alcanfor , Sp. 

Formula  C10H1(JO  = C8H14.CH2.CO.  Molecular  weight  151.66. 

A stearopten  or  concrete  volatile  oil,  having  the  nature  of  a ketone,  obtained  from 
Cinnamomum  Camphora,  F.  Nees  et  Ebermaier , s.  Laurus  Camphora,  Linn&,  s.  Cam- 
phora  officinarum,  C.  Bauhin , and  purified  by  sublimation.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med. 
Plants , 222. 

Nat.  Ord. — Laurineae. 

Origin. — The  camphor  laurel  is  a handsome  tree  7.5  to  9 M.  (25  to  30  feet)  high, 
with  thin  reddish  or  yellowish  branches,  and  alternate  evergreen,  smooth,  and  shining 


CAMPHOR  A. 


387 


leaves,  which  are  glaucous  beneath.  The  flowers  are  small,  yellowish,  in  pedunculate 
axillary  cymes,  and  produce  oblong-globular  dark-purple  berries  about  £ inch  (8  Mm.) 
long  and  containing  a single  seed.  It  is  indigenous  to  Eastern  and  South-eastern  Asia 
from  Cochin  China  north  through  China,  and  in  Japan  and  Formosa.  It  grows  very 
readily  in  tropical  and  subtropical  countries,  and  is  cultivated  in  Italy  as  an  ornamental 
tree.  All  parts  of  the  tree  have  a camphoraceous  odor  and  taste,  but  the  camphor  is 
obtained  from  the  root,  trunk,  and  branches  by  chipping  the  wood,  and  either  boiling  it 
with  water  in  an  iron  vessel  which  is  covered  with  a rude  earthen  or  wooden  head  lined 
on  the  inside  with  straw,  in  which  the  camphor  condenses,  or  as  in  Formosa,  where  the 
chips  are  merely  exposed  to  the  vapor  of  water,  which  is  boiled  in  a wooden  trough,  lined 
on  the  outside  with  clay,  earthen  pots,  ten  in  number,  serving  as  the  heads  of  the  rude 
still.  The  camphor  is  scraped  out  from  time  to  time,  placed  in  suitable  vats  to  drain  off 
much  of  the  adhering  oil,  and  then  packed.  Camphor  appears  to  have  been  used  as  a 
medicine  in  Europe  in  the  twelfth  century.  The  kind  first  known  was  Dryobalanops 
camphor,  which  is  now  seen  only  as  a curiosity  outside  of  Southern  Asia. 

Commerce. — Japan  or  tub  camphor , formerly  also  called  Dutch  camphor,  is  imported 
in  tubs  containing  about  125  pounds,  covered  by  matting  and  surrounded  by  another  tub. 
It  is  in  white  granular  masses,  usually  with  a reddish  tint  and  dry  to  the  touch.  Formosa 
or  Chinese  camphor , generally  imported  in  lead-lined  chests,  is  occasionally  as  handsome 
in  appearance  as  the  preceding,  but  frequently  is  in  smaller  granules,  darker,  sometimes 
even  blackish  in  color,  or  damp  from  adhering  oil  or  moisture.  Crude  camphor  dissolves 
completely  in  alcohol,  with  the  exception  of  from  1 to  5 or  6 per  cent,  of  foreign  matters, 
sand,  etc.  In  the  fiscal  year  1866-67,  432,075  pounds  of  crude  and  30,526  pounds  of 
refined  camphor  passed  through  the  custom-houses  of  the  United  States.  Since  1876 
very  little  refined  camphor  has  been  imported,  it  varying  between  208  pounds  in  1877 
and  11  pounds  in  1882,  while  in  the  same  period  the  importation  of  crude  camphor 
fluctuated  between  986,292  pounds  in  1879  and  2,542,830  pounds  in  1880. 

Refining1. — This  was  formerly  done  exclusively  in  Europe,  but  it  has  for  some  years 
been  successfully  carried  on  in  the  United  States.  It  is  stated  that  the  apparatuses  used  in 
Europe  are  still  the  old-fashioned  bombaloes , large  somewhat  depressed  glass  globes  with  a 
short  neck  and  an  aperture  through  which  the  watery  vapors  find  egress  ; some  charcoal  or 
lime  is  introduced  with  the  crude  camphor  into  the  vessels,  which  are  placed  in  a sand-bath, 
and  this  is  rapidly  heated,  first  to  expel  the  water,  after  which  the  sand  is  lowered  and  the 
heat  gradually  increased  to  between  200°  and  205°  C.  (392°  and  401°  F.)  ; after  the  cam- 
phor has  sublimed  and  condensed  at  the  top  the  vessels  must  be  broken  in  order  to  recover 
the  purified  camphor.  Similar  subliming-vessels  are  in  use  in  the  United  States,  but  they 
are  so  arranged  that  they  can  be  taken  apart  and  used  over  again,  and  provision  has  even 
been  made  by  a firm  in  Philadelphia  to  recover  the  volatile  oil  contained  in  the  camphor. 
The  operation  requires  a careful  regulation  of  the  heat  for  subliming  and  judicious  pro- 
vision for  cooling  the  top,  so  as  to  obtain  the  camphor  in  solid  crystalline  cakes.  Another 
Philadelphia  firm  sublimes  the  crude  camphor  slowly  from  retorts  and  condenses  the 
vapors  in  a large  chamber,  whereby  the  camphor  is  obtained  in  a fine  crystalline  powder, 
which  is  afterward,  by  hydraulic  pressure,  formed  into  solid  cakes,  thus  lessening  the  sur- 
face of  exposure  and  the  rapidity  of  evaporation. 

Properties. — Refined  camphor  forms  orbicular  slightly  convex  cakes,  with  a circular 
hole  in  the  centre,  corresponding  to  the  aperture  of  the  subliming-vessel.  It  is  white, 
translucent,  crystalline  in  texture,  fissured  in  the  interior,  tough,  and  not  pulverizable, 
except  after  moistening  it  with  alcohol,  ether,  chloroform,  or  a volatile  oil.  It  evaporates 
slowly  at  the  ordinary  temperature,  and  condenses  in  partly-filled  bottles  in  the  form  of 
glossy  hexagonal  plates  or  prisms.  Various  contrivances  have  been  suggested  to  keep 
camphor  in  the  powdered  condition,  such  as  precipitation  by  water  in  the  presence  of 
magnesia,  trituration  with  a fixed  oil,  glycerin,  or  sugar ; but  the  most  satisfactory  method 
appears  to  be  that  proposed  by  J.  C.  Lowd  (1871),  of  condensing  the  hot  camphor  vapors 
in  a large  chamber.  The  powder  thus  obtained,  which  has  been  called  flowers  of  camphor, 
may  be  preserved  for  some  years  if  kept  in  a cool  place,  and  even  if  it  should  cake 
together  may  readily  be  reduced  to  the  pulverulent  condition.  Another  method  is  that 
proposed  by  Dr.  Bruno  Hirsch,  pouring  a hot  concentrated  alcoholic  solution  of 
camphor  into  ten  times  its  volume  of  distilled  water,  stirring  constantly,  collecting  the 
precipitate  on  a strainer,  and  after  it  has  drained  drying  it  over  lime,  calcium  chloride,  or 
sulphuric  acid,  without  subjecting  the  powder  to  any  pressure. 

Camphor  fuses  at  175°  C.  (347°  F.),  boils  at  204°  C.  (399°  F.),  sublimes  without  leav- 
ing any  residue,  and  when  ignited  burns  with  a luminous  sooty  flame  ; its  specific  gravity 


388 


CAMPHOR  A. 


at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  is  0.990  ; its  solutions  are  dextrorotatory.  It  is  sparingly  soluble  in  water 
(see  Aqua  Camphors),  dissolves  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  in  0.7  parts  of  alcohol,  and  is  freely 
soluble  in  ethers,  chloroform,  glacial  acetic  acid,  wood  spirit,  acetone,  carbon  disulphide, 
benzene,  benzin,  and  volatile  and  fixed  oils  ; its  solutions  in  alcohol  and  ether  increase  the 
solubility  of  corrosive  sublimate,  and  the  presence  of  this  salt  renders  camphor  more 
soluble  in  these  liquids.  (See  Hydrarg.  Chlor.  Corros.)  Camphor  dissolves  by  trit- 
uration in  10  parts  of  milk,  and  the  solution  may  be  diluted  with  water  without  causing 
precipitation.  When  rubbed  together  with  powdered  chloral  or  resins  the  mixtures 
gradually  become  soft  or  liquid,  and  in  the  fused  state  resins  dissolve  a considerable  pro- 
portion of  camphor.  It  has  a peculiar  penetrating  odor  and  an  aromatic  somewhat  cool- 
ing taste.  The  odor  of  camphor  is  destroyed  by  Tolu  balsam,  asafetida,  and  similar 
umbelliferous  resins.  Thrown  upon  water,  camphor  shows  a peculiar  rotatory  motion, 
which  is  probably  caused  by  its  rather  rapid  evaporation  and  slow  solubility. 

Its  composition  is  represented  by  the  formula  Ci0H16O.  When  distilled  with  zinc  chloride 
or  phosphoric  anhydride  it  is  gradually  converted  into  cymene,  C10H14,  and  by  oxida- 
tion with  nitric  acid  into  camphoric  acid,  C10H16O4,  and  finally  into  camphor onic  acid , 
C9H1205.  Schwanert’s  camphresinic  acid  (1863)  is  a mixture  of  these  two.  Nitroso- 
camplior,  C10H15O.NO,  was  prepared  by  Claisen  and  Manasse  (1889)  by  treating  camphor 
and  amyl  nitrite,  dissolved  in  ether,  with  sodium  ethylate ; it  melts  at  153°  C.,  and  is 
readily  soluble  in  water,  alcohol,  ether,  and  chloroform.  By  the  action  of  hypochlorous 
acid  on  camphor,  Wheeler  (1868)  obtained  several  chlorine  substitution-products,  and  by 
acting  upon  these  with  alcoholic  solution  of  potassa,  oxy camphor,  CioHi602,  is  formed, 
which  crystallizes  in  needles,  has  the  odor  and  taste  of  camphor,  and  sublimes  without 
change,  but  melts  at  137°  C.  (278.5°  F.).  Camphor  combines  and  forms  also  substitu- 
tion-compounds with  iodine  and  bromine. 

Other  Camphors  and  Camphor  Oils. — The  crystallizing  stearoptens  of  volatile  oils  are  some- 
times designated  as  camphors. 

Oleum  camphors,  U.  S.  1870. — Oil  of  camphor,  Camphor  oil  of  Formosa,  E. ; Huile  vola- 
tile de  camphre,  Fr.  ; Fliichtiges  Kampferol,  G. — The  oil  is  obtained  in  the  preparation  of  crude 
camphor,  and  a portion  also  in  refining  this  product.  It  is  a dark  wine-yellow  or  yellowish- 
brown  liquid,  having  a camphor-like  odor  and  taste  and  the  specific  gravity  .940.  At  a low 
temperature  it  deposits  a considerable  quantity  of  camphor  in  the  form  of  crystals,  and  at  about 
180°  C.  (356°  F.)  it  begins  to  boil.  It  turns  the  plane  of  polarized  light  to  the  right.  By  care- 
ful fractional  distillation  a considerable  portion  of  camphor  is  left  in  the  retort,  but  cannot  be 
completely  removed  by  this  means.  The  liquid  distillate  has,  according  to  Martius,  the  odor  of 
camphor  and  cajeput,  and,  according  to  Mulder,  is  a solution  of  laurel  camphor,  C10H16O,  in  a 
hydrocarbon  of  the  composition  C10H16 ; the  latter,  according  to  Lallemand  (1859),  resembles  oil 
of  lemon  in  its  chemical  behavior. 

Sumatra,  s.  Borneo  Camphor,  or  Barus  Camphor,  is  found  in  fissures  of  the  wood  of  Dry- 
obalanops  Camphora,  Colebrook  (D.  aromatica,  Gaertner).  Nat.  Ord.  Dipterocarpaceae.  Its  odor 
is  somewhat  different  from  that  of  ordinary  camphor  *,  its  crystals  are  slightly  heavier  than 
water,  and  but  sparingly  volatilized  at  ordinary  temperatures.  It  is  borneol  or  camphyl  alcohol , 
C10II18O,  and  by  treatment  with  nitric  acid  it  is  converted  into  ordinary  camphor.  The  stately 
tree  yielding  this  drug  is  indigenous  to  Sumatra  and  Borneo,  and  requires  cutting  down  to 
obtain  the  camphor,  which  in  the  East  is  sold  at  a high  price,  and  therefore  never  enters  com- 
merce at  large.  This  camphor  is  dextrogyre. 

Camphor  oil  of  Borneo  is  obtained  from  the  same  tree  by  tapping  or  felling  it.  It  is  a rather 
viscid  brown-yellow  or  reddish  oil,  which  is  a solution  of  resin  and  a little  borneol  in  a hydro- 
carbon, C10II1G  5 the  latter  has  a terebinthinate  odor,  and  is  identical  with  the  hydrocarbon  of  oil 
of  valerian ; hence  the  names  borneene  and  valerene.  Lallemand  (1859)  could  not  obtain  borneol, 
but  isolated  two  terpenes  boiling  respectively  at  180°  and  255°  C.  (356°  and  491°  F.).  The  crude 
oil  is  dextrogyre,  begins  to  boil  at  about  175°  C.  (347°  F.),  and  deposits  little  or  no  camphor  when 
placed  in  a freezing  mixture.  It  is  rarely,  if  ever,  met  with  in  commerce. 

Ngai  Camphor  is  obtained  in  Burmah  and  China  by  the  distillation  of  Blumea  balsamifera, 
De  Candolle ; Nat.  Ord.  Composite — a tall  weed  of  South-eastern  Asia,  and  commands  there  a 
higher  price  than  ordinary  camphor.  It  has  the  composition  of  the  Borneo  camphor,  C10HlgO, 
but  turns  polarized  light  to  the  left,  and  yields  with  nitric  acid  a camphor  having  the  composition 
of  ordinary  camphor,  but  levogyre  in  optical  behavior.  It  was  examined  in  1874  by  Hanbury, 
Plowman,  and  Fliickiger. 

Vinum  camphoratum,  P.  G. — Wine  of  camphor,  E. ; Yin  camphre,  Fr. ; Kampfer- 
wein,  G. — Dissolve  camphor  1 part  in  alcohol  1 part,  and  add  gradually  and  with  agita- 
tion mucilage  of  acacia  3 parts  and  white  wine  45  parts.  It  is  a whitish,  turbid  liquid, 
which  requires  to  be  well  shaken  when  dispensed. — P.  G. 

Camphora  carbolisata,  s.  phenolata. — Camphorated  phenol,  Phenol-camphor,  E. ; 
Camphre  phenole,  Fr. ; Phenolkampfer,  G. — Camphor  2 parts ; carbolic  acid  1 part ; 


CAMPHOR  A. 


389 


allow  to  liquefy  (Bufalini,  1875).  Camphor  100  parts,  carbolic  acid  36  parts,  alcohol  4 
parts ; dissolve  (Hager).  A colorless  or  oily  liquid  having  the  odor  of  camphor,  soluble 
in  fixed  oils,  alcohol,  and  ether,  nearly  insoluble  in  water  and  glycerin. 

Camphora  salicylata. — Salicylated  camphor,  E. ; Camphre  salicyle,  Fr.  ; Salicylirter 
Kampfer,  G. — Camphor  84  parts,  salicylic  acid  65  parts;  heat  in  a water-bath  to  90°  C. 
(194°  F.)  until  liquefied  (Prota  Giurleo,  1881).  A colorless  oily  liquid,  solidifying  to  an 
opaque  crystalline  mass,  becoming  unctuous  on  being  triturated  ; slightly  soluble  in  water 
and  glycerin,  more  soluble  in  fats  and  volatile  oils,  and  crystallizing  from  hot  benzol. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  local  action  of  camphor  upon  the  living  tissues  is  that 
of  a stimulant  and  irritant.  A piece  of  it  held  in  the  mouth  irritates,  and  may  even 
ulcerate,  the  lining  membrane ; the  same  effect  is  possible  in  the  stomach.  Internally, 
its  action  varies  with  the  dose.  In  large  doses  it  causes  a burning  pain  along  the 
oesophagus  and  at  the  pit  of  thetstomach,  vomiting,  diminished  frequency  and  force  of 
the  pulse,  followed  by  its  intermission,  by  giddiness,  dimness  of  vision,  muscular  debility, 
paleness  and  coolness  of  the  skin,  with  a cyanotic  hue  in  grave  cases,  spasms  and  ridigity 
of  the  muscles,  and  general  convulsions.  These  phenomena,  which  show  that  camphor 
in  such  doses  is  a direct  and  powerful  sedative,  are  followed  by  a reaction  in  which  there 
is  more  or  less  excitement  and  fever.  A man  swallowed  two  pieces  of  camphor,  each  as 
large  as  a nutmeg,  and  presented  the  characteristics  just  described  (Bull,  de  Ther.,  cix. 
563).  In  no  instance  does  camphor  seem  to  have  directly  caused  the  death  of  a healthy 
adult.  As  supplementary  to  the  cases  referred  to  in  the  previous  edition  of  this  work 
the  following  may  be  cited  : 150  grains  of  camphor  dissolved  in  oil  occasioned  in  a 
healthy  adult  general  convulsions  with  stupor,  followed  by  confusion  of  mind.  Dr. 
Brothers,  the  reporter  of  this  case,  referred  to  several  others,  including  one  of  a female 
who  took  200  grains  of  camphor  in  alcohol,  became  convulsed  and  comatose,  but  was 
convalescent  on  the  following  day;  and  also  five  fatal  cases,  all  but  one  of  which 
occurred  in  children.  The  exception  was  a pregnant  woman,  who  swallowed  184  grains 
of  camphor,  aborted,  and  died  (Med.  Record , xxxii.  734).  The  fatal  result  cannot 
fairly  be  attributed  to  the  camphor  alone.  In  another  case  a girl  said  to  have  been  in  the 
habit  of  eating  camphor  was  found  unconscious,  and  so  died  (Med.  News , liii.  241).  In  this 
case  the  meagerness  of  the  details  forbids  a positive  judgment  as  to  the  cause  of  death. 
In  medicinal  doses  Gm.  0.12  to  1.0  (gr.  ij-xv)  camphor  stimulates  the  nervous  and 
vascular  systems,  and  through  them  all  the  functions ; the  pulse  becomes  stronger  and 
more  frequent,  the  skin  grows  warmer  and  moister,  and  there  is  a consciousness  of  more 
or  less  exhilaration.  Such  effects  are  of  short  duration,  and  are  not  succeeded  by  ex- 
haustion or  depression.  Small  doses  appear  to  irritate  the  genital  organs,  but  full 
medicinal  doses  allay  morbid  excitement  in  them.  It  appears,  then,  that  camphor  stimu- 
lates in  small  and  depresses  in  large  doses,  and  that  its  operation  is  very  transient — 
almost  as  much  so  as  that  of  alcohol,  which  in  some  other  respects  it  resembles. 
According  to  physiological  experimenters,  the  spinal  cord  is  not  influenced  by  camphor, 
for  convulsions  do  not  occur  after  the  separation  of  the  medulla  oblongata  from  the 
medulla  spinalis.  Owing  to  the  rapid  disappearance  of  the  smell  of  camphor  from  the 
urine  and  feces  of  animals  poisoned  by  it,  it  is  held  that  the  drug  is  decomposed  in  the 
organism. 

The  ancients  do  not  appear  to  have  used  camphor  in  febrile  affections,  but  in  the 
eighteenth  century  it  acquired  a reputation  in  the  treatment  of  typhoid  conditions  which 
it  has  never  lost.  It  was  held  to  be  less  heating  than  ammonia,  less  stupefying  than 
opium,  and,  along  with  the  latter,  to  act  as  a powerful  sudorific.  It  was  considered — 
and  is,  in  fact — an  appropriate  remedy  for  the  condition  which  includes  exhaustion, 
stupor,  and  nervous  derangement,  shown  by  muscular  trembling  and  subsultus  and  low 
delirium,  the  phenomena  belonging  to  the  malignant  or  typhoid  state  in  which  the 
nervous  system  tends  to  collapse  because  the  blood  has  become  impure.  In  this  condi- 
tion stimulants  sustain  nervous  power  until  the  depuration  and  reorganization  of  the 
blood  are  accomplished  ; and  camphor  in  small  and  repeated  doses  has  the  advantage,  over 
some  other  appropriate  remedies,  of  inducing  no  injurious  secondary  effects.  The  typhoid 
state,  it  should  be  remembered,  may  be  an  incident  of  inflammatory  affections  as  well  as 
of  idiopathic  fevers.  A French  army  surgeon  claims  that  in  the  treatment  of  an  eph 
demic  of  typhoid  fever  marked  by  unusual  ataxia  he  was  very  successful  after  he  began 
the  administration  of  enemas  containing  8 grains  of  crystallized  carbolic  acid,  15  grains 
of  camphor,  1 ounce  of  alcohol,  and  about  6 ounces  of  water  (Bull,  de  Therap .,  ciii.  p. 
465).  The  share  of  the  carbolic  acid  in  the  result  may  perhaps  be  disregarded.  In 
spasmodic  diseases  camphor  has  been  largely  employed  in  whooping  cough,  chorea,  and 


390 


CAMPHORA. 


even  epilepsy,  but  its  power  in  these  affections  is  of  very  subordinate  importance.  In 
typhoid  states  of  continued  fevers  and  of  inflammations  its  hypodermic  use  has  been 
found  useful  when  the  drug  was  dissolved  in  almond  oil,  and  injections,  each  con- 
taining 2 or  3 grains  of  camphor,  were  administered  every  two  to  four  hours.  The  same 
method  has  been  employed  successfully  in  poisoning  by  illuminating  gas.  In  minor  dis- 
orders of  the  nervous  class,  such  as  headache,  palpitation , hiccup , spasmodic  dysphagia , 
etc.,  camphor  in  small  and  repeated  doses  shows  the  same  power  as  other  nervous 
stimulants.  In  small  doses,  and  even  as  a topical  application,  it  seems  to  afford 
marked  relief  in  that  distressing  occipital  headache  which  arises  from  severe  and  pro- 
longed mental  strain.  In  full  sedative  doses  it  has  proved  an  antidote  to  strychnine. 
The  Arabians  and  their  followers  in  Europe  were  familiar  with  the  power  of  camphor  in 
large  doses  to  repress  sexual  excitement , and  they,  as  well  as  nearly  all  successful  imi- 
tators of  them,  prescribed  from  20  to  60  grains  a #day.  The  doses  of  2 or  3 grains 
sometimes  directed  for  this  purpose  are  worse  than  useless.  They  are  perhaps  more 
efficient  in  certain  cases  of  genital  excitement  produced  by  local  irritation — by  canthar- 
ides,  for  example.  It  is  usual  to  incorporate  powdered  camphor  with  blistering  plasters 
to  prevent  strangury , but  the  evidence  of  the  efficiency  of  this  expedient  is  not  very 
strong.  A poultice  saturated  with  camphor  and  applied  to  the  perineum  will  relieve  this 
symptom,  and  also  prevent  chordee.  In  some  cases  of  mania  large  doses  of  camphor 
have  proved  efficient,  particularly  in  the  puerperal  form ; it  very  probably  would  be 
more  eligible  than  the  excessive  doses  of  opiates  which  are  sometimes  employed.  It  is 
stated  that  equal  parts  of  chloral  hydrate  and  camphor  form  a much  more  powerful 
sedative  and  soporific  than  a like  dose  of  either  substance  alone  (Simmons,  Amer.  Jour, 
of  Med.  Sci .,  Jan.  1880,  p.  89).  Camphor  has  been  employed  to  expel  lumbricoid  worms , 
and  by  enema  to  destroy  ascarides  of  the  rectum.  It  has  been  resorted  to  internally 
and  locally  with  good  effect  in  hospital  gangrene.  Ulcers  that  are  slow  to  heal,  owing  to 
a depressed  state  of  the  system,  are  benefited  by  camphor  in  powder  ; the  same  may  be 
said  of  specific  ulcers  of  the  genitals.  Camphor  dissolved  in  ether  or  chloroform,  or  even 
alcohol,  and  applied  on  cotton  within  the  cavity  of  a carious  tooth,  mitigates  toothache 
materially.  This  is  one  of  the  most  ancient  uses  of  the  medicine.  Snuffed  into  the 
nostrils,  the  fumes  of  camphor,  like  other  local  irritants,  will  sometimes  arrest  a forming 
coryza.  They  may  be  employed  by  simply  smelling  a lump  of  camphor,  or  they  may  be 
disengaged  from  camphor  mixed  with  hot  water  in  a vessel  and  conveyed  to  the  nostrils 
through  a funnel.  In  an  ointment  or  liniment  it  forms  one  of  the  best  cures  for  scabies, 
and  is  said  to  prevent  the  maturation  of  variolous  pustules. 

Camphor  may  be  administered  in  substance  in  the  pilular  form  when  the  dose  is  small, 
but  larger  doses  are  best  given  in  emulsion,  which  should  be  flavored  with  the  extract  or 
the  syrup  of  liquorice.  As  a stimulant  the  dose  is  from  Gm.  0.06-0.30  (gr.  j-v),  re- 
peated every  three  or  four  hours  in  mild  cases,  but  in  low  fevers  it  should  be  from  Gm. 
0.60-1.30  (gr.  x-xx),  and  repeated  according  to  the  indications.  In  maniacal  nervous 
excitement  not  less  than  Gm.  1.30  (gr.  xx)  should  be  given,  and  repeated  as  often  as  may 
be  required.  In  cases  of  poisoning  by  camphor  alcohol  may  be  administered  in  small 
and  repeated  doses. 

Carbolized  or  phenol  camphor  has  been  applied  with  a brush  to  the  false  mem- 
branes of  diphtheria,  and  is  stated  to  have  caused  a rapid  subsidence  of  the  inflammatory 
swelling  and  a removal  of  the  exudation  (Bull,  de  Therap .,  xciv.  18 ; xcviii.  529).  In 
1885  it  was  stated  by  Schaeffer  to  be  a local  anaesthetic  in  toothache  from  caries  and  for 
the  pain  of  ingrown  toe-nail  ( Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  Jan.  1885,  p.  32).  In  1887, 
Cochran  applied  it  to  the  treatment  of  herpes,  of  wounds , boils , idcers,  and  uterine  leu- 
corrhoea.  Dissolved  in  olive  oil,  it  is  alleged  to  have  not  only  palliated  but  arrested 
erysipelas.  He  also  found  it  useful  in  gastric  catarrh.  He  stated  that  in  10-drop  doses 
it  occasioned  a not  unpleasant  sense  of  warmth  in  the  stomach,  and  that  upon  the  skin 
or  applied  hypodermically  it  caused  anaesthesia  of  the  immediate  neighborhood 
( Therap . Gaz.,  xi.  805).  In  a word,  its  action  is  principally  due  to  the  carbolic  acid  in 
its  composition. 

Salicylated  camphor,  mixed  with  from  10  to  20  parts  of  vaseline,  with  the  addi- 
tion of  paraffin,  can  be  made  into  suppositories.  It  is  stated  to  exhibit  remarkable 
healing  powers  when  applied  to  phagedenic  and  atonic  ulcers , especially  those  of  a 
syphilitic  nature  (Bull,  de  Therap .,  xcvii.  143.) 

Wine  of  camphor  is  used  for  the  same  purposes  as  spirit  of  camphor. 

Camphoric  acid  has  been  alleged  by  Reichert  (Therap.  Gaz.,  xii.,  632),  Hosier 
(Med.  News , lii.  558),  and  Nussel  (Am.  Jour.  Med.  Sci.,  Dec.  1888,  p.  641)  to  be  a 


CA MPHORA  MONOBR  OMA  TA. 


391 


profitable  application  to  the  larynx  in  phthisis , and  to  the  skin  in  eczema  and  acne , etc.,  but 
the  clinical  proofs  of  its  value  are  defective.  Mosler  did  not  find  it  superior  to  the  more 
usual  remedies  in  laryngitis  and  bronchitis,  but  recognized  its  virtues  in  chronic  cystitis , 
when  used  as  an  injection  as  well  as  when  given  by  the  mouth.  He,  and  also  Fiirbinger, 
found  it  efficient  in  the  night-sweats  of  phthisis.  As  a gargle  or  lotion  a £— 1 per  cent, 
solution  in  water  or  glycerin  may  be  used.  To  check  night-sweats  it  was  given  in  the 
dose  of  Gm.  1-2  (15  to  30  grains). 


CAMPHOR  A MONOBROMATA,  TJ,  S. — Monobromated  Camphor. 

Bromated  camphor , E. ; Camphre  monobromi , Fr. ; Monobromkampfer , G. ; Can/ora 
monobromata , F.  It. ; Bromuro  de  alcanfor,  Sp. 

Formula  C10H15BrO.  Molecular  weight  230.42. 

Preparation. — Laurent  obtained  (1840)  camphor  dibromide,  Ci0H16OBr2,  by 
uniting  bromine  with  camphor,  and  stated  that  on  distillation  it  afforded  bromine,  cam- 
phor, a little  hydrobromic  acid,  and  a bromated  oil.  Swarts  (1861)  heated  camphor 
dibromide  in  sealed  tubes  and  obtained  monobromated  camphor.  W.  H.  Perkins  (1865) 
subjected  the  oily  bromide  of  Laurent  to  distillation,  and  found  the  distillate,  collected 
above  265°  C.  (509°  F.)  after  crystallization  from  alcohol,  to  be  monobromated  camphor. 
We  have  found  (1872)  the  following  process  to  give  satisfactory  results : Break  13 
ounces  of  camphor  into  small  pieces  ; put  these  into  a quart  retort,  first  filling  the  neck ; 
raise  the  latter  somewhat,  and  then  introduce  through  the  tubulure,  by  means  of  a fun- 
nel-tube, 4 ounces  of  bromine,  washing  the  last  down  with  20  or  30  minims  of  alcohol. 
A brisk  reaction  will  commence  in  about  fifteen  or  twenty  minutes  ; after  it  has  sub- 
sided and  the  retort  has  become  cool  introduce  8 to  9 ounces  of  bromine  in  four  portions, 
waiting  after  each  addition  until  the  reaction  has  ceased.  The  addition  of  alcohol  .is  not 
requisite,  but  facilitates  the  reaction,  and  the  bromine  may  be  added  in  larger  quantities 
if  provision  be  made  for  condensing  the  vaporized  bromine  and  returning  it  to  the  retort. 
This  is  now  slowly  heated  to  about  132°  C.  (270°  F.),  allowed  to  cool,  the  contents  dis- 
solved in  warm  petroleum  benzin,  the  solution  allowed  to  crystallize,  and  the  crystals 
purified  by  recrystallization  from  hot  alcohol  or  petroleum  benzin.  On  evaporating  the 
mixed  mother-liquors  an  oily  mass  is  obtained,  which,  heated  to  260°  C.  (500°  F.), 
becomes  black,  and  contains  monobromated  camphor,  to  be  obtained  by  recrystallization 
as  before.  Gault  (1874)  heats  at  first  in  a water-bath,  crystallizes  from  strong  alcohol, 
and  heats  the  oily  mass  contained  in  the  mother-liquor  to  not  over  220°  C.  (428°  F.). 
A similar  process  is  recommended  by  Dubois,  who  states  that  by  confining  the  heat  to  100° 
C.  no  by-products  of  any  consequence  are  formed.  J.  U.  Lloyd  (1875)  recommends  the 
camphor  dibromide  to  be  heated  with  water  in  a retort  placed  in  a sand-bath,  and  the 
product  to  be  crystallized  from  alcohol.  T.  C.  Linthicum  (1876)  considers  the  reaction 
very  unsatisfactory  at  100°  C. 

In  the  above  processes  camphor  dibromide,  C10HuOBr2,  is  first  formed,  and  this,  on 
being  heated,  is  decomposed  into  hydrobromic  acid,  IIBr,  and  monobromated  camphor, 
C10H15BrO,  the  latter  representing  a molecule  of  camphor  in  which  1 atom  of  hydrogen 
is  replaced  by  1 of  bromine.  During  the  operation  one-half  of  the  bromine  used  is 
given  off  as  hydrobromic  acid,  and  may  be  collected  in  water  or  combined  with  a base. 

Properties. — Monobromated  camphor  crystallizes  from  alcohol  in  thin  white  or 
colorless  prisms  and  needles,  and  from  petroleum  benzin  in  long  flat  prisms  or  glossy 
scales.  It  has  a weak  but  persistent  camphoraceous  odor,  a mild  camphoraceous  taste, 
and  a neutral  reaction.  It  is  permanent  in  the  air  and  not  affected  by  direct  sunlight. 
It  is  insoluble  in  water,  slightly  soluble  in  glycerin,  freely  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  chloro- 
form, fixed  oils,  and  in  less  than  its  own  weight  of  hot  petroleum  benzin,  from  which 
solution  the  greater  part  crystallizes  on  cooling.  It  melts  at  76°  C.  (168.8°  F.),  and 
evaporates  slowly  with  the  vapors  of  boiling  water,  condensing  in  fine  white  interlaced 
needles;  at  274°  C.  (525°  F.)  it  boils  and  volatilizes  completely,  with  partial  decomposi- 
tion. It  dissolves  without  decomposition  in  cold  sulphuric  acid,  and  is  again  precipitated  by 
water.  When  boiled  with  silver  nitrate  and  nitric  acid  it  is  decomposed,  and  yields  81.2 
per  cent,  of  silver  bromide.  Heated  with  zinc  chloride  to  near  160°  C.  (320°  F.),  it 
yields  a hydrocarbon,  C8Hi6,  and  liquid  thymol,  C10HuO  (Schiff,  1880). 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — If  a liquid  preparation  is  desired,  monobromated  cam- 
phor is  conveniently  given  in  the  form  of  emulsion,  after  dissolving  it  in  six  or  eight 
times  its  weight  of  expressed  oil  of  almond  or  other  bland  oil.  Monday  (1877)  proposed 


392 


CA NELLJE  CORTEX. 


an  elixir  of  monobromated  camphor  containing  1 per  cent,  by  weight  of  the  latter,  by 
dissolving  with  the  aid  of  a gentle  heat  3 Gm.  of  it  in  a mixture  composed  of  120  Gm. 
of  90  per  cent,  alcohol,  80  Gm.  of  water,  and  100  Gm.  of  glycerin. 

Action  and  Uses. — From  a number  of  experiments  upon  animals  Bourneville 
drew  the  following  conclusions : 1.  Monobromated  camphor  diminishes  the  number  of 
the  heart-beats  and  contracts  the  blood-vessels  of  the  ears  and  eyelids.  2.  It  renders 
the  inspirations  less  frequent.  3.  It  lowers  the  temperature  steadily,  and  in  fatal  cases 
until  death ; in  those  animals  which  recover  the  temperature  rises  to  its  original  point, 
but  more  slowly  than  it  fell.  4.  It  is  unquestionably  hypnotic,  and  seems  to  act  chiefly 
upon  the  brain.  5.  It  does  not  appear  to  induce  tolerance,  and  cats  and  guinea-pigs 
lose  flesh  rapidly  while  using  it.  The  experiments  of  Mr.  Lawson  upon  man  tend  to 
confirm  the  conclusions  of  Bourneville  in  regard  to  its  influence  upon  the  pulse  and  tem- 
perature, both  of  which  were  depressed  under  the  action  of  the  compound,  but  in  doses 
of  10  grains  it  did  not  show  any  soporific  influence.  In  subsequent  trials  of  the  medi- 
cine he  found  that  its  great  liability  to  produce  gastric  irritation,  and  the  excitability 
and  wasting  following  thereon,  formed  a strong  objection  to  its  use. 

Monobromated  camphor  may  take  the  place  of  camphor  alone  in  the  ataxic  forms  of 
the  typhoid  state.  It  has  been  used  with  alleged  advantage  in  epilepsy , not  only  in  the 
convulsive  form  of  the  disease,  but  in  epilepsia  minor  and  in  cases  of  epileptic  delirium 
in  females.  But,  according  to  Dr.  Gowers,  it  in  his  hands  produced  no  good  results. 
It  has  appeared  to  arrest  convulsions  depending  upon  dentition.  In  several  cases  of 
inveterate  chorea  and  of  paralysis  agitans  it  is  reported  to  have  mitigated  the  convulsive 
movements  in  a notable  degree,  and  to  have  controlled  the  excitement  of  hysteria  and 
also  of  delirium  tremens.  In  insomnia  connected  with  cerebral  hyperaemia  or  with  heart 
lesions  it  has  proved  beneficial,  and  palpitation  of  the  heart  due  to  either  cause  has  been 
relieved  by  it.  The  same  is  true  of  its  use  in  headache  occasioned  by  over-stimulation 
of  the  brain  by  mental  excitement.  It  has  also  palliated  nervous  cough  and  nocturnal 
incontinence  of  urine , relieved  anal  and  vesical  tenesmus , especially  when  this  symptom 
depended  upon  nervous  irritability  and  not  upon  substantial  disease  of  the  affected 
organs,  and  it  has  also  subdued  priapism.  It  will  be  observed  that  all  these  affections 
are  such  as  are  apt  to  be  benefited  by  the  alkaline  bromides ; and  it  is  more  than  proba- 
ble that  a solution  of  one  of  them  in  camphor-water,  if  not  in  simple  watery  solution, 
would  answer  the  same,  if  not  a better,  purpose.  After  a sufficient  trial  of  the  prepara- 
tion, Dr.  Lawson  concluded  ( Practitioner , xiv.  262)  that  its  insolubility  and  the  gastric 
derangement  it  causes  render  it  ineligible  as  a medicine,  and  that  its  therapeutic  value 
does  not  entitle  it  to  rank  with  the  other  soporific  and  calmative  medicines  which  are 
analogous  to  it.  It  has  usually  been  administered  in  sugar-coated  pills,  and  in  doses  of 
from  Gm.  0.10-0.30  (gv.  ij — v).  repeated  several  times  a day  or  oftener.  Its  insolubility 
and  unpleasant  taste  and  smell  render  any  other  liquid  vehicle  than  oil  inappropriate  for 
its  administration.  A formula  for  an  elixir  is  given  above. 


CANELL^E  CORTEX,  Br.— Canella-Bark. 

Canella. — Canelle  blanche , Fr. ; Weisser  Zimmt , Weisser  Canel,  G. ; Canela  blanca , Sp. 

The  bark  of  Canella  alba,  Murray , s.  Winterania  Canella,  Linne , s.  Canella  Winterana, 
Gaertner.  Woodville,  Med.  Bot.  237  ; Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 26. 

Nat.  Ord. — Canellaceae. 

Origin. — The  white  wood  or  wild  cinnamon  tree  is  indigenous  to  many  of  the  West 
Indian  islands  and  the  southern  section  of  Florida.  It  grows  to  about  12  M.  (40  feet), 
has  evergreen,  blunt,  lanceolate  leaves,  pale  violet-colored,  highly  aromatic  flowers  in 
terminal  corymbs,  and  bluish-black  subglobular  berries,  about  1 Cm.  (-§  inch)  long,  and 
containing  two  to  four  angular  and  roundish  reniform  seeds.  The  silver-gray  corky  layer 
of  the  bark  is  mostly  removed  by  beating,  and  subsequent  cutting  before  the  bark  is  col- 
lected. The  drug  became  first  known  in  Europe  in  1605. 

Description. — The  bark  is  in  quills  or  half-quills,  varying  in  length  from  a few  deci- 
meters to  .6  or  .9  M.  (2  or  3 feet),  and  in  diameter  from  6 to  38  Cm.  (£  to  1|  inches). 
The  external  surface  is  of  a pale  yellowish-red  color,  with  transversely  elongated  scars 
of  the  suberous  warts,  and  occasionally  with  fragments  of  the  gray  corky  layer  and  with 
whitish  patches  of  the  inner  bark  laid  bare  by  the  removal  of  the  reddish  layer ; inner 
surface  white,  finely  striate ; fracture  short,  white.,  with  numerous  bright  orange-yellow 


CA  NX  A BIS  INDICA. 


393 


dots  of  resin-cells.  The  odor  is  agreeably  aromatic,  cinnamon-like ; the  taste  aromatic, 
somewhat  bitter,  and  biting. 

Substitutions. — The  bark  of  Cinnamodendron  corticosum,  Miers  (Bentley  and  Tri- 
men, Med.  Plants , 27).  a small  tree  of  the  same  natural  order  as  the  preceding,  is  indi- 
genous to  Jamaica,  and  is  there  employed  like  Canella  alba.  It  has  oblong-lanceolate, 
acute  leaves  and  red  flowers  in  axillary  clusters  of  two  to  four.  The  bark  is  of  a ferru- 
ginous gray-brown,  darker  upon  the  outer  surface,  spotted  by  scars  of  the  nearly  circular 
suberous  warts,  smooth  and  finely  striate  upon  the  inner  surface,  and  agreeing  in  odor 
and  pungent  taste  nearly  with  the  preceding.  Both  barks  have  been  frequently  sold  as 
"Winter's  bark.  Cinnamodendron  macranthum,  Badlon , of  Porto  Bico,  yields  a similar 
bark. 

Constituents. — The  analyses  of  Henry  (1821)  and  of  Petroz  and  Robinet  (1822) 
proved  the  existence  of  volatile  oil,  resin,  bitter  principle,  mucilage,  starch,  albumen,  and 
salts.  The  canellin  of  the  last-named  chemists  is  identical  with  mannit,  according  to 
Meyer  and  Yon  Reiche  (1843),  who  obtained  8 per  cent,  of  it,  and  separated  from  the 
volatile  oil  eugenol,  an  oil  having  the  odor  of  cajuput,  and  another  fraction  not  further 
examined.  From  0.5  to  0.94  per  cent,  of  volatile  oil  and  about  6 per  cent,  of  ash,  con- 
sisting mainly  of  calcium  carbonate,  have  been  obtained  from  the  bark.  The  bitter  prin- 
ciple has  not  yet  been  isolated.  The  cinnamodendron-bark  has  probably  similar  constit- 
uents, but  contains  in  addition  some  tannin,  which  is  not  present  in  Canella  alba. 

Action  and  Uses. — Canella  is  tonic  and  stimulant,  and  may  be  employed  to 
relieve  simple  gastric  debility.  It  is  seldom  used  alone,  but  rather  along  with  bitter 
tonics  and  with  purgatives  that  tend  to  debilitate,  as  scammony  and  jalap,  or  that  have 
a local  action  which  it  is  designed  to  increase,  as  in  the  case  of  aloes  when  given  for 
uterine  disorders;  it  is  also  used  in  chlorotic  menorrhagia  and  metrorrhagia  following 
parturition  or  depending  upon  cancer  of  the  uterus.  It  is  a constituent  of  pulcis  aloes 
cum  canella , long  a valued  remedy  for  amenorrhoea , and  formerly  an  officinal  preparation. 
The  dose  in  powder  is  from  Gm.  0.60-2.50  (gr.  x-xl.) 


CANNABIS  INDICA,  TJ.  S.,  Br. — Indian  Cannabis. 

Hemp)  E. ; Chanvre , Fr.  ; Hanf  G. ; Canama , Sp. 

Cannabis  sativa,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 231. 

Nat.  Ord. — Urticacese,  Cannabineae. 

Official  Kinds. — 1.  Cannabis  Indica,  U.  S.,  Br.;  Herba  cannabis  Indicae,  P.  G. — 
Indian  cannabis,  Indian  hemp,  E. ; Chanvre  indien,  Fr. ; Indischer  Hanf,  G. — The 
flowering  tops  of  the  female  plant  of  Cannabis  sativa,  grown  in  the  East  Indies. — 
U.  S. 

2.  Cannabis  Americana,  U.  S.  1880. — American  cannabis,  American  hemp,  E. ; 
Chanvre  americain,  Fr.  ; Amerikanischer  Hanf,  G. — Cannabis  sativa,  grown  in  the 
Southern  United  States,  and  collected  while  flowering. 

Origin — The  hemp-plant  is  indigenous  to  Asia,  from  India  north  to  Western  China 
and  the  Caspian  Sea ; it  grows  likewise  in  tropical  Africa.  Having  been  cultivated  from 
a very  early  period  for  its  textile  bast-fibres  and  its  oily  fruit,  the  cultivation  has  extended 
to  most  civilized  countries.  The  plant  grows  spontaneously  in  Europe  and  North  America, 
and  has  been  naturalized  in  some  parts  of  Brazil.  It  is  an  annual,  with  an  angular 
roughish  stem,  1.2,  2.4,  and  3 M.  (4  to  8 and  even  10  feet)  high,  with  opposite  or  the 
upper  ones  alternate  petiolate  and  digitate  leaves,  composed  of  five  to  nine  lanceolate  or 
linear-lanceolate,  acute,  and  serrate  leaflets,  and  with  dioecious  flowers.  The  Indian  plant 
has  the  lower  leaves  alternate,  the  stem  is  more  branched,  and  the  bast-fibres  are  coarser; 
but  the  characters  vary  and  are  not  sufficiently  important  to  constitute  it  a distinct  spe- 
cies. The  plant  richest  in  resin  grows  at  an  altitude  of  1800  to  2400  M.  (6000  to  8000 
feet). 

Description. — The  Indian  hemp  found  in  the  market  is  that  known  in  India  as 
gunjah  or  ganja,  and  in  London  and  elsewhere  as  gauza  ; as  collected  it  consists  of  the 
tops  of  branches,  which  are  50  to  75  Min.  (2  to  3 inches)  long,  compressed,  of  a 
brownish-green  color,  with  few  leaves,  a large  number  of  female  flowers,  and  some 
ripe  or  nearly  ripe  fruits,  the  whole  more  or  less  agglutinated  by  resin,  but  neverthe- 
less quite  brittle ; odor  narcotic,  not  unpleasant ; taste  bitter  and  slightly  acrid.  In 


394 


CANNABIS  IN LIC A. 


the  bazars  it  is  also  seen  in  bundles,  which  are  composed  of  the  upper  branches,  .6  to 
.9  M.  (2  to  3 feet)  long,  several  inches  in  diameter,  and  showing  more  or  less  of  the 
resinous  exudation. 

Another  form  is  used  in  India  under  the  name  of  bhang  or  siddhi , the  hashish  of  the 
Arabs,  which  consists  of  leaves  and  small  stalks  coarsely  broken  and  mixed  with  few 
fruits ; it  is  smoked  with  or  without  tobacco,  and  is  chiefly  employed  in  the  preparation 
of  various  electuaries  and  beverages.  The  resin  is  collected  in  India  in  a very  primitive 
manner  and  impure  condition,  and  is  known  as  charas  or  churrus.  It  is  either  the  dusty 
powder  obtained  on  storing  the  dry  plant,  or  by  rubbing  the  fresh  tops  between  the 
hands  and  scraping  off  the  adhering  resin,  or  by  removing  it  from  the  leather  garments 
of  men  who  run  through  the  hemp-fields  brushing  against  the  plants.  The  plants  grown 
at  an  altitude  of  from  6000  to  8000  feet  are  stated  to  produce  this  resin,  while  those 
grown  in  the  plains  yield  little  or  none. 

The  American  hemp  consists  usually  of  the  barren  plant,  which  has  the  character  given 
above  ; the  staminate  flowers  are  in  loose  pedunculate,  axillary  panicles  crowded  near  the 
summit,  and  composed  of  clusters  of  pedicillate  greenish  flowers  having  a deeply  five- 
cleft  perianth.  The  fertile  plant  has  the  pistillate  flowers  single  or  in  pairs,  sessile, 
bracteate,  and  with  slender  protruding  stigmas,  the  inflorescence  forming  erect,  short,  and 
compact  spikes.  The  odor  of  the  dry  plant  is  heavy,  the  taste  bitter  and  somewhat 
acrid. 

Fructus  cannabis. — Hempseed,  E. ; Semences  de  chanvre,  Chenevis,  Fr. ; Hanf- 
samen,  G. — It  is  an  akene,  about  3 Mm.  (i  inch)  long,  ovate,  somewhat  flattened,  and 
somewhat  two-edged;  the  pericarp  is  thin,  hard,  smooth,  greenish  or  brownish,  delicately 
veined,  and  contains  a single  greenish  seed,  the  embryo  of  which  has  the  radicle  bent 
upon  one  of  the  cotyledons.  The  fruit  is  inodorous,  and  has  an  unpleasant,  sweetish,  and 
oily  taste.  By  trituration  with  water  it  yields  an  emulsion. 

Constituents. — G.  Martius  (1856)  obtained  from  this  plant,  besides  gum  and  sugar, 
nitrate  of  potassium  and  other  salts  and  resinous  matter;  dried  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.),  the 
herb  yielded  18  per  cent,  of  ash  containing  silica  and  phosphates  as  the  main  constituents. 
European  hemp  had  been  previously  examined  by  Schlesinger  and  Bohlig  (1840) ; both 
found  considerable  malic  acid,  and  the  latter  0.3  per  cent,  of  a yellow  aromatic  oil  hav- 
ing faintly  narcotic  properties.  Personne  (1857)  claimed  the  volatile  oil  obtained  from 
Indian  hemp  to  be  the  sole  active  principle  ; he  separated  it  into  liquid  cannabene , C18H20, 
and  solid  cannabene  hydride , C18H22.  According  to  Bohlig,  the  essential  oil  contains  oxy- 
gen. After  rectification  over  sodium  it  was  found  by  L.  Yalente  (1881)  to  have  the 
spec.  grav.  .9292  at  0°  C.,  to  boil  at  256°  to  258°  C.  (493°  and  496.4°  F.),  to  be  readily 
soluble  in  alcohol,  and  to  be  violently  acted  upon  by  bromine.  The  hashiscin  of  Gastinel 
is  merely  the  alcoholic  extract  of  gunjah  deprived  of  the  principles  soluble  in  water.  The 
cannabin  of  T.  and  H.  Smith  (1846)  is  much  purer ; it  is  obtained  by  exhausting  the 
gunjah  with  water  and  solution  of  sodium  carbonate,  then  washing  the  residue  with  water, 
drying,  exhausting  with  alcohol,  treating  the  tincture  with  milk  of  lime,  precipitating  the 
iime  with  sulphuric  acid,  treating  the  filtrate  with  animal  charcoal,  filtering,  concentrating, 
and  precipitating  by  water ; it  constitutes  a brown  amorphous  resin  which  burns  without 
leaving  any  ash.  Procter  (1864)  observed  that  the  resin  is  converted  by  hot  nitric  acid 
into  an  orange-red  substance  resembling  gamboge,  and  Bolas  and  Francis  (1871)  obtained 
from  this  residue  oxy cannabin , C20H20N2O7,  which  crystallizes  from  methylic  alcohol  in 
large  prisms.  Preobraschensky  (1876)  claimed  to  have  obtained  nicotine  from^Bucha- 
rian  hashish  and  from  gunjah.  Siebold  and  Bradbury  (1881)  failed,  like  other  investi- 
gators, to  obtain  nicotine,  but  isolated  from  10  pounds  of  gunjah  about  2 grains  of  a vol- 
atile alkaloid,  cannabinine , which  forms  a varnish-like  mass  of  a coniine-like  but  less 
nauseous  odor,  sparingly  soluble  in  water,  and  in  this  solution  yielding  with  chlorine- 
water  a white  turbidity.  Matthew  Hay  (1883)  showed  that  Cannabis  indica  contains 
several  alkaloids ; the  sulphate  of  one  of  these  is  soluble  in  alcohol.  The  alkaloid  itself 
is  easily  soluble  in  water  and  in  alcohol,  more  slowly  soluble  in  chloroform  and  ether, 
and  from  the  latter  solution  obtainable  in  needles.  It  does  not  show  the  color-reactions 
of  strychnine,  but  resembles  it  in  its  physiological  effects ; hence  the  name  tetanocan* 
nabine  is  proposed  for  it. 

The  analysis  of  Bucholz,  and  the  later  one  by  Anderson  (1855),  failed  to  find  in  hemp- 
seed  any  other  constituents  than  those  common  to  oily  seeds.  The  small  quantity  of 
resin  has  not  been  further  examined  ; the  protein  compounds  amount  to  22  or  24  per 
cent,  and  the  fixed  oil  to  about  30  per  cent.  Berjot  (1860)  obtained  28,  Cloez  (1865) 


CANNABIS  INDICA. 


395 


31.5,  and  Munch  (1866)  35.5  per  cent,  of  oil.  Oil  of  hempseed  is  a drying  oil,  and  has 
a greenish-  or  brownish-yellow  color,  a peculiar  odor,  and  a mild  taste ; it  is  readily  sol- 
uble in  boiling  alcohol,  and  when  heated  with  one-fifth  of  its  measure  of  soda  solution 
spec.  grav.  1.34  it  acquires  a yellowish-brown  color  and  a thick  consistence. 

Extractum  cannabis  Americana,  Extract  of  American  hemp.  An  alcoholic  tincture 
of  American  cannabis  evaporated  to  the  consistence  of  an  extract,  U S.  P.  1870. 

Cannabine  tannate,  for  which  no  formula  has  been  published,  is  a yellowish-brown 
permanent  powder,  insoluble  in  water  and  ether,  slightly  soluble  in  alcohol,  of  a not 
unpleasant  odor,  and  of  a bitterish  astringent  taste ; it  is  stated  to  be  the  tannate  of  a 
glucoside. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  action  of  cannabis  upon  man  varies  with  the  individual’s 
temperament.  Some  it  inspires  with  pugnacity,  and  others  it  inclines  to  dreamy  con- 
templation, to  motiveless  merriment,  or  to  maudlin  sensibility ; some  it  makes  unnatu- 
rally ^active  and  restless,  and  plunges  others  in  a drowsy  stupor ; but  more  than  any 
other  agent,  not  even  excepting  belladonna,  it  perverts  the  natural  perception  of  objects 
and  their  normal  condition  and  relations.  At  the  same  time  it  dilates  the  pupils.  Dur- 
ing its  influence  the  physical  condition  of  the  experimenter  exhibits  changes  in  the  rate 
and  rhythm  of  the  pulse,  warmth  of  the  skin,  restless  muscular  movements,  more  or  less 
insensibility  to  touch  and  pain,  and  sometimes  impaired  power  of  locomotion,  the  limbs 
feeling  as  if  weighted  with  lead.  In  one  reported  case  a diffused  vesicular  eruption  was 
attributed  to  this  medicine  (Hyde).  It  does  not  increase,  but,  on  the  contrary,  impairs, 
the  venereal  propensity  and  power.  One  of  its  immediate  sequences  is  a voracious 
desire  for  food.  A vivid  and  detailed  description  of  the  effects  of  this  preparation  upon 
himself  is  furnished  by  Dr.  Beane  (Ther.  Gaz .,  viii.  278).  Among  them  he  notes  a 
sinking  feeling  at  the  praecordium,  a sensation  of  spasmodic  contraction  of  all  the  blood- 
vessels, and  a rapid  action  of  the  heart.  The  cardiac  oppression  and  rapid  pulse  have 
been  noted  by  others  (ibid.,  ix.  18  ; x.  618  ; Centralbl.  f.  d.  ges.  Ther.,  iv.  449  ; Med.  Record, 
xxviii.  55).  But  in  the  case  of  a consumptive  patient  “ the  pulse  was  full,  regular, 
and  not  noticeably  accelerated”  (Times  and  Gaz.,  June,  1885,  p.  817.)  The  varying 
action  of  the  drug  upon  the  same  person  is  exhibited  by  Mr.  Fielde  in  his  vivid  nar- 
rative of  the  experiments  tried  upon  himself  in  China  ( Therap.  Gaz.,  xii.  449).  Its 
stimulant  action  is  illustrated  by  its  influence  upon  a Persian  sect,  Haschischin  (whence 
the  French  and  English  word  assassin),  who,  under  its  influence,  ran  amuck,  slaying  or 
wounding  all  they  met  (Stille.  Therapeutics , 4th  ed.  i.  956).  Similar  occurrances  even 
now  occasionally  take  place  in  India  (Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  Sept.  1885,  p.  239). 
The  habitual  use  of  cannabis  in  excessive  doses  causes  the  face  to  become  bloated,  the 
eyes  injected,  and  the  limbs  weak  and  tremulous ; the  mind  grows  imbecile,  and  ulti- 
mately death  by  marasmus  is  apt  to  occur.  Acute  poisoning  by  large  doses  is  marked 
by  various  and  dissimilar  symptoms  in  different  cases.  In  some  there  is  loss  of  con- 
sciousness, with  collapse  or  stupor,  insensible  pupils,  a pale,  clammy,  and  insensible  skin, 
extreme  debility,  and  a small,  feeble  pulse.  A case  in  which  the  drug  was  taken  with  a 
suicidal  intent  presented  the  grave  symptom  of  paralysis  of  the  respiratory  muscles  of 
the  thorax,  and  the  patient’s  recovery  was  attributed  to  the  use  of  the  electrical  battery 
(Therap.  Gaz.,  viii.  514).  But  it  does  not  appear  that  cannabis  has  unequivocally 
caused  death  in  any  case.  In  other  cases  a cataleptic  condition,  spasms,  or  convulsions 
occur,  and  in  all  there  is  marked  anaesthesia.  The  last-named  effect  led  to  the  use  of 
cannaW^.by  the  Chinese  in  certain  surgical  operations.  (For  a fuller  account  of  its  effects, 
see  Stille,  Therapeutics , 4th  ed.  i.  958.) 

The  effects  of  cannabis  as  just  described  would  not  suggest  its  employment  in 
tetanus,  and  yet  in  the  traumatic  variety  of  a disease  notoriously  of  fatal  issue  its  vir- 
tues have  been  demonstrated  by  physicians  entirely  competent  to  test  them.  In  India 
it  has  been  successfully  employed  by  causing  the  patient  to  smoke  gunja,  or  else  the 
dried  leaves  of  cannabis,  almost  continuously.  It  is  of  comparatively  little  use  in  neur- 
algia, rheumatism , epilepsy,  or  chorea.  Yet  in  the  first  of  these  affections  its  efficacy  is 
claimed  by  several  recent  authors,  including  Hare,  McConnell  ( Practitioner , xl.  95), 
Reynolds  (loc.  inf.  cit ).  In  a case  of  chorea  following  concussion  of  the  spine  it  seemed 
to  promote  the  cure  (Siegfried,  Hygien.  and  Med.  Rep.  U.  S.  Navy , 1879).  Its  anaes- 
thetic virtues  are  shown  by  its  allaying  the  intense  itching  of  eczema,  so  as  to  permit 
the  patient  to  sleep  ; it  is  said  to  have  been  used  with  advantage  to  diminish  hallucina- 
tions of  sight  and  hearing  in  certain  forms  of  insanity  and  in  delirium  tremens ; but  in 
such  sensorial  aberrations  its  action  is  by  no  means  uniform.  Its  use  in  the  treatment 


396 


CANTHARIS. 


of  the  morphine  habit  has  furnished  some  encouraging  results.  It  is  alleged  that 
extract  of  cannabis,  used  habitually  in  the  dose  of  one-third  of  a grain  twice  a day,  will 
prevent  or  greatly  mitigate  recurrent  headache  or  migraine.  During  the  attacks  the 
dose  should  be  increased  to  Gm.  0.03  (gr.  ^-)  or  more.  Among  the  later  reporters  of  its 
success  in  this  disorder  are  MacKenzie  ( Practitioner , xxxviii.  294)  and  Greene  (ibid., 
xli.  35),  who  agree  that  the  medicine  should  be  continued  for  several  months  in  doses 
of  Gm.  0.02-0.03  (gr.  £ to  $)  three  times  a day,  and  gradually  increased,  while  its 
action  is  kept  within  the  physiological  limit.  It  seems  to  be  "peculiarly  efficient  in 
various  conditions  of  the  brain  involving  a positive  or  relative  anaemia  of  that  organ, 
such  as  delirium  during  fever  and  in  delirium  tremens,  and  sleeplessness  after  fever,  soften- 
ing of  the  brain,  thickening  of  the  meninges,  obstinate  nervous  vomiting,  etc.  Reynolds 
(Lancet,  March,  1890,  p.  637)  has  furnished  the  special  indications  for  the  medicine  in 
several  of  these  diseases:  viz.  senile  insomnia,  facial  neuralgia,  locomotor  ataxia,  chronic 
spasms  (not  epileptic)  ; and  Germain  See  has  recommended  it  in  various  forms  of  gastric 
irritation  of  an  atonic  character  and  attended  with  flatulence,  and  vomiting,  giddiness, 
migraine,  palpitation,  etc.  (ibid.  Sept.  1890,  p.  631).  He  suggests  doses  of  4 grain 
three  times  a day.  Cannabis  appears  capable,  directly  or  indirectly,  of  causing  uterine 
contraction,  as  in  many  cases  of  uterine  haemorrhage  ; and  it  is  also  said  to  provoke  this 
act  during  labor  with  as  much  energy  as  ergot,  but  that  its  effects  are  less  persistent.  Mac- 
connell  attributes  to  it  the  virtue  of  overcoming  anorexia  following  exhaustive  fevers  and 
other  diseases,  and  states  that  in  India  those  who  use  it  habitually  have  voracious  appe- 
tites. He  also  speaks  of  its  control  over  dyspeptic  diarrhoea  (lientery),  and  in  this  con- 
nection refers  to  the  constipating  effect  of  its  habitual  use  ( Practitioner , xl.  95).  Bond 
and  Edwards  had  previously  written  of  its  value  in  diarrhoea  (ibid.,  xxxix.  8),  and  Ren- 
nie in  dysentery  (Therap.  Gaz .,  xi.  196),  but,  as  they  associated  with  it  morphine  or 
astringents,  the  part  played  by  cannabis  in  the  treatment  does  not  appear  to  be  very 
definite.  Birch  has  reported  cases  of  the  chloral  habit  and  of  the  morphine  habit  which 
were  successfully  treated  by  extract  of  cannabis  (Lancet,  March,  1889,  p.  625).  The 
dose  of  extract  of  cannabis  is  from  Gm.  0.013-0.06  (\  to  1)  grain,  but  since  this  prepa- 
ration is  often  quite  inert,  none  should  be  used  medicinally  that  has  not  previously  been 
tested.  It  should  also  be  remembered  that  the  susceptibility  to  its  action  is  very  unequal, 
and  that  therefore  the  primary  should  be  a minimum  dose.  Lemon-juice  is  said  to  neu- 
tralize its  effects,  and  tobacco  and  coffee  to  increase  them  ; but,  on  the  other  hand,  coffee 
has  been  recommended  as  an  antidote,  and  so  have  ammonia,  strychnine,  and  even  atro- 
pine. There  is  no  clinical  evidence  in  favor  of  those  last  named.  Fronmiiller  alleges 
that  tannate  of  cannabine  is  a reliable  hypnotic  in  the  dose  of  from  2 to  10  grains;  and 
this  statement  is  repeated  by  Pusinelli  and  Findler,  but  is  questioned  by  Ewald,  Leyden, 
and  others.  It  seems  to  be  agreed  that  the  hypnotic  effect  of  the  drug  is  manifested 
chiefly  when  wakefulness  is  d.ue  to  mental  excitement,  and  especially  in  persons  of  a 
nervous  temperament,  and  also  when  it  is  caused  by  long  confinement  without  due  exer- 
cise. The  dose  varies  from  5 to  15  grains.  Dr.  H.  C.  Wood,  however,  reports  that  he 
gave  Merck’s  tannate  of  cannabine  to  a number  of  patients  in  doses  of  20  grains  a day, 
and  produced  no  distinct  effect  beyond  a slight  drowsiness  (Therap.  Gaz.,  ix.  379).  Rich- 
ter pronounces  this  preparation  uncertain  and  untrustworthy,  and  a similar  judgment  has 
been  given  by  Prior  (Centralbl.  f.  Therap .,  vi.  607). 

Cannabinon. — At  a meeting  of  the  Berlin  Society  for  Psychiatry  and  Nervous  Dis- 
eases (Centralbl.  f.  d.  g.  Therap.  iii.  94),  Richter  stated  that  in  doses  of  1J  grs.  this 
preparation  acts  like  cannabis,  but  may  induce  collapse ; Yogelgesang  had  given  it  to 
insane  patients  in  6-8-grain  doses,  but  with  little  advantage,  for  its  benefits  were  very 
transient,  and  sometimes  it  brought  on  a semi-paralytic  attack ; Blumenthal  had  seen 
analogous  effects  from  doses  of  1 J-3  grains,  and  in  one  instance  from  the  smaller  dose  ; 
Gnauk  had  a similar  experience  where  5 grains  of  the  medicine  had  been  taken,  and 
with  2 grains  he  failed  to  secure  sleep.  Mendel  noted  dryness  of  the  throat  and  vomiting 
among  its  effects,  and  Roux,  after  an  elaborate  experimental  study  of  the  subject  (Bull, 
de  Therap.,  cxi.  492),  declared  the  preparation  unsafe  as  well  as  uncertain. 

CANTHARIS,  U.  S.,  Br.— Cantharides. 

Cantharides,  P.  G. ; Muscse  Hispanicse. — Spanish  flies,  E. ; Cantharides,  Fr. ; Spanische 
Fliegen,  Canthariden,  Kanthariden,  G. ; Cantaride,  Cantarella , Mona  di  Spagna , It. ; Can- 
tar  ulas,  Sp. 


CANTII ARTS. 


397 


Cantharis  vesicatoria,  De  Geer  ( His . des  Insectes ),  s.  Lytta  vesicatona,  Fabricius , s. 
Meloe  vesicatorius,  Linne.  The  beetle  collected  chiefly  in  Hungary  and  Southern  Russia. 

Class  Insecta  ; Order  Coleoptera — Beetles. 

Description. — The  so-called  Spanish  fly  is  indigenous  to  Southern  and  Central 
Europe,  and  is  found  eastward  as  far  as  Western  Asia;  it  frequents  chiefly  trees  and 
shrubs  of  the  Oleaceae  and  Caprifoliaceae,  such  as  the  ash,  lilac,  elder, 
and  honeysuckle.  The  beetle  is  from  15  to  30  Mm.  (-§ — l-g-  inch)  long 
and  5 to  8 Mm.  Q-  to  ^ inch)  broad,  flattish  cylindrical  in  shape,  of 
a shining  brass  or  copper-green  color  above  and  below,  and  finely 
punctate  above.  Head  obtusely  triangular  and  subcordate,  with  a 
longitudinal  furrow ; eyes  two,  lateral ; antennae  filiform,  of  eleven 
joints,  the  lowest  three  green,  the  upper  black  ; thorax  of  the  same 
width  as  the  head,  obtusely  quadrangular,  longitudinally  channelled ; 
wing-cases  covering  the  body,  with  two  fine  longitudinal  ridges ; 
wings  ample,  membranous,  brownish-transparent;  tarsi  of  the  hinder 
legs  with  four,  and  of  the  others  with  five,  joints;  claws  bifid. 

Cantharides  have  a strong  and  disagreeable  odor  and  a slight  taste 
becoming  strongly  acrid.  They  yield  a brown-gray  powder  inter- 
mixed wih  green  shining  particles. 

Oollection  and  Commerce. — Cantharides  are  collected  early  in  the  morning  by 
spreading  cloths  under  the  trees  and  shrubs,  which  are  then  shaken  or  beaten  with  poles  ; 
the  insects  are  plunged  into  hot  water,  afterward  spread  out  and  dried.  A better 
method  for  killing  them  is  by  means  of  a little  chloroform,  ether,  oil  of  turpentine,  or 
carbon  disulphide  after  enclosing  them  in  a tight  vessel.  They  are  collected  for  exporta- 
tion in  Spain,  Italy,  Hungary,  and  Southern  Russia,  and  packed  in  boxes  and  casks. 
Those  coming  from  Russia  are  of  a copper  color,  larger  than  those  of  Western  Europe, 
and  are  most  esteemed.  6000  pounds  of  cantharides  were  imported  in  the  year  1867,  and 
5000  pounds  in  1879,  but  the  importation  usually  reaches  14,000  to  19,000  pounds  per 
annum,  including  Chinese  blistering-beetles. 

Allied  Species. — Several  of  the  American  species  allied  to  the  Spanish  flies  have  been  found 
to  possess  efficient  vesicating  properties,  and  among  these  may  be  mentioned : Cantharis  vittata , 
or  potato-fly,  which  has  a black  thorax  and  wing-cases,  with  three  yellow  stripes  upon  the 
former,  and  the  latter  margined  with  yellow  and  with  a yellow  stripe  down  the  middle ; C.  cinerea , 
black,  closely  punctured,  and  covered  with  ash-gray  hairs ; C.  marginata , elytra  black,  with  the 
margin  ash-colored ; C.  atrata,  only  about  4 inch  long,  uniformly  black.  Attention  has  also 
been  called  among  others  to  C.  Nuttalli , which  resembles  the  Spanish  fly,  but  has  golden-purple 
wing-cases  striped  with  green  ; it  is  very  abundant  in  Kansas  and  Colorado.  (An  interesting 
paper,  treating  of  many  of  the  North  American  blistering-beetles  and  of  the  development  of 
Meloe,  by  Mr.  W.  Saunders,  may  be  found  in  the  Proceedings  of  the  American  Pharmaceutical 
Association , 1876,  p.  505.) 

Mylabris  cichorii,  Fabricius , and  M.  phalerata,  Pallas , two  vesicating  insects  indigenous 
to  Eastern  and  Southern  Asia  and  to  some  parts  of  Africa,  have  recently  been  imported  as 
Chinese  blistering-flies ; the  insects  are  black, 
with  two  orange-colored  bands  and  two  spots 
of  the  same  color  upon  the  wring-cases.  They 
yield  a blackish-gray  powder  destitute  of  the 
green  glossy  particles  observable  in  powdered 
cantharides,  and  are  quite  efficient  as  a vesi- 
cant. The  East  Indian  Lytta  Gigas,  Fabri- 
cius, which  is  longer  than  cantharides  and 
of  a purplish-blue  color,  has  likewise  been 
occasionally  met  with  in  commerce. 

Preservation. — All  blistering-bee- 
tles should  be  kept  in  a well-dried  condi- 
tion and  in  close  vessels,  the  drying  to  be 
effected  at  a temperature  not  exceeding 
40°  C.  (104°  F.),  so  as  to  avoid  loss  of  cantharidin.  If  they  cannot  be  kept  in  this  con- 
dition, they  may  be  protected  from  the  attacks  of  mites  and  of  small  beetles  and  their 
larvae  by  the  addition  of  a little  camphor,  ether,  chloroform,  oil  of  turpentine,  benzene,  or 
carbon  disulphide.  W.  E.  Saunders  (1883)  finds  the  vapors  of  chloroform  to  afford 
better  protection  than  camphor.  The  blistering  principle  resides  mainly  in  the  soft  parts 
of  cantharides;  the  idea  which  has  been  sometimes  advanced,  that  they  increase  in 
strength  when  thus  attacked,  is  erroneous. 

Adulterations. — Cantharides  are  occasionally  mixed  with  beetles  of  a similar  color 


Fig.  45. 


Cantharis  vesicatoria. 


398 


CAN  TH ARTS. 


which  have  been  collected  with  them,  but  evidently  not  for  fraudulent  purposes.  The 
shape  and  color  of  the  insects  prevent  them  from  being  adulterated.  But  powdered  can- 
tharides  are  said  to  be  sometimes  ground  together  with  euphorbium.  Adulterations  are 
best  recognized  by  determining  the  amount  of  cantharidin  by  the  modifications  of  Procter’s 
process  mentioned  below,  sometimes  also  by  the  amount  of  ash.  “ When  incinerated,  can- 
tharides  should  yield  not  over  8 per  cent,  of  ash.” — P.  G. 

Constituents. — Robiquet’s  analysis  (1810)  indicated  the  presence  of  cantharidin, 
free  acetic  and  uric  acids,  fatty  matters  (stearin,  palmitin,  and  olein,  according  to  Goess- 
mann),  yellow  viscid  matter  soluble  in  water  and  alcohol,  a yellow  substance  soluble  in 
ether  and  alcohol,  black  extractive,  and  magnesium  and  calcium  phosphates.  E.  Dietrich 
(1883)  found  also  notable  quantities  of  formic  acid.  Pocklington  (1873)  regards  the 
green  coloring  matter  as  chlorophyll.  Cantharidin , C10H12O4,  is  most  readily  obtained  by 
Procter’s  process  (1851),  as  modified  by  Mortreux  (1864)  and  Fumouze  (1867)  : this 
method  consists  simply  in  exhausting  the  powder  with  chloroform,  evaporating  sponta- 
neously, and  freeing  the  residuary  crystals  from  fat  and  coloring  matter  by  washing  them 
with  bisulphide  of  carbon.  Galippe  (1875)  recommends  the  substitution  of  acetic  ether 
for  the  chloroform.  Beguin  gives  preference  to  the  same  menstruum,  and  believes  that 
the  solvents  mentioned  completely  extract  the  cantharidin,  and  that  therefore  it  cannot 
be  contained  in  the  beetles  partly  in  combination,  as  was  stated  by  Bluhm  (1865),  Ren- 
nard  (1871),  and  others.  But  Dragendorff  (1867,  1872)  showed  that  the  yield  of  can-, 
tharidin  may  be  increased  by  treating  the  powder  first  with  an  alkali,  and  supersaturating 
afterward  with  hydrochloric  acid  before  exhausting  the  cantharidin ; and  E.  Dietrich 
(1880)  found  it  of  advantage  to  subject  the  alkaline  liquid  to  dialysis.  The  experiments 
of  R.  Wolff  (1877),  made  with  Lytta  aspersa  of  South  America,  indicate  that  ammonium 
compounds  may  be  present  and  gradually  increase  in  quantity  through  the  agency  of 
moisture  and  the  magnesium  salts  of  the  beetles,  whereby  sparingly  soluble  compounds 
are  formed ; all  of  which,  as  far  as  examined,  are  decomposed  by  acetic  ether,  with  the 
liberation  of  cantharidin ; hence  the  larger  yield  when  old  cantharides  are  treated  with 
this  menstruum.  The  amount  of  cantharidin  found  by  different  authors  in  cantharides 
varies  between  0.17  and  0.57.  Boiraux  and  Leger  (1875)  obtained  as  much  as  1 per 
cent,  by  using  hot  coal-oil  (boiling  between  80°  and  120°  C.).  W.  R.  Warner  (1856) 
obtained  from  C.  vittata  0.40,  L.  Fahnestock  (1879)  from  the  same  species  by  Dragen- 
dorff’s  method  1.3  per  cent.;  R.  Wolff  from  Lytta  aspersa  0.85,  Prestat  (1876)  from 
Mylabris  interrupta  of  Algiers  0.858,  Maisch  (1872)  by  Fumouze’s  process  from  Chinese 
beetles  1.016  per  cent.,  and  L.  Fahnestock  (1879)  1.25  per  cent,  from  the  same  lot  of 
beetles  after  they  had  been  kept  for  six  years,  and  with  the  use  of  Dragendorff ’s  process ; 
Warner  obtained  only  0.43  per  cent.  That  cantharidin  is  with  difficulty  obtained  pure 
from  old  cantharides  was  also  shown  by  Fahnestock  (1879).  According  to  Nentwich 
~ (1871),  full-grown  cantharides  only  are  vesicating. 

Cantharidin  crystallizes  in  colorless  prisms  and  scales,  and  is  soluble  in  alcohol, 
methylic  alcohol,  ether,  chloroform,  acetic  ether,  glacial  acetic  acid,  and  fixed  and  volatile 
oils,  but  insoluble  in  carbon  disulphide  and  in  petroleum  benzin.  Dietrich  considers 
formic  acid  the  best  solvent,  and  states  that  cantharidin  dissolved  in  this  acid  may  be 
distilled.  It  is  rendered  soluble  in  water  through  the  yellow  viscid  matter  in  cantharides 
(Robiquet),  which  we  find  to  be  partly  precipitated  by  basic  lead  acetate  and  mercuric 
chloride.  But,  according  to  Rennard,  hot  and  cold  water  dissolves  nearly  and  per 
cent,  of  cantharidin,  and  this  vaporizes  when  distilled  with  water,  more  particularly  with 
the  first  portions — with  chloroform  even  at  60°  C.,  and  in  the  dry  state  at  and  above  85°  C. 
(185°  F.).  When  dry  it  fuses  near  210°  C.  (410°  F.),  and  sublimes  more  freely  at  that 
temperature,  condensing  again  in  glossy  prisms  or  needles.  It  unites  with  bases  after 
assimilating  H20,  forming  salts,  cantharidic  acid  having  the  composition  C)0HuO5,  but  on 
being  decomposed  by  an  acid  cantharidin  is  again  separated  (Dragendorff,  1867).  Krafft 
(1877)  gives  the  formula  C20H24O8  to  cantharidin,  and  states  that  the  latter,  heated  with 
hydriodic  acid  spec.  grav.  1.8,  is  gradually  converted  into  the  monobasic  cantharic  acid , 
which  has  the  same  composition,  is  crystalline,  soluble  in  120  parts  of  cold  and  12  of 
boiling  water,  sparingly  soluble  in  ether,  and  not  vesicating  when  its  glycerin  solution  is 
applied  to  the  skin. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Linimentum  Cantharidis,  U.  S.  1880.  Digest  15  parts  or  cantharides 
in  No.  60  powder  with  100  parts  of  oil  of  turpentine  in  a close  vessel  by  means  of  a water-bath 
for  3 hours ; strain  and  add  enough  oil  of  turpentine  through  the  strainer  to  make  the  liniment 
weigh  100  parts.  Oleum  Cantharidatum,  P.  G. — Digest  3 parts  of  coarsely-powdered  canthar- 
ides in  10  parts  of  olive  oil  for  10  hours  and  filter. 


CANTU  ARTS. 


399 


Other  Insects. — Only  two  insects  are  now  officinal  in  the  U.  S.  and  British  Pharmacopoeias, 
Cantharis  and  Coccus.  ” Some  European  pharmacopoeias  recognize  also  the  red  ant,  Formica  rufa, 
Linnt,  which  belongs  to  the  order  Formicidae,  and  is  used  in  preparing  a spirit  (see  Acidum 
Formicicum)  and  a tincture.  The  latter,  tinctura  formicarum , is  made  by  digesting  2 parts  of 
fresh  and  bruised  ants  in  3 parts  of  alcohol,  and  has  a brown  color. 

Recently  an  insect  of  the  order  Orthoptera  has  been  recommended — Blatta  (periplaneta, 
Burmeister)  orientalis,  Linnt;  Cockroach,  E. ; Bete  noir,  Panetiere,  Cafard,  Fr. ; Schabe,  G. — 
It  is  a native  of  Asia,  but  now  found  in  most  parts  of  the  civilized  world.  It  is  dark-brown, 
about  1 inch  (25  Mm.)  long,  has  a flat  broad  body,  the  extremity  of  which  is  furnished  with  two 
conical  appendages;  the  antennae  are  long  and  filiform,  the  legs  thin  but  strong,  and  the  wings 
lie  straight  on  the  back,  covering  the  greater  part  of  the  body  of  the  male,  but  being  quite  short 
in  the  female.  The  cockroach  is  nocturnal  in  its  habits  and  has  a disagreeable  sickening  odor. 
Bogomolow  (1876)  announced  the  isolation  of  the  active  principle  antihydropin  in  a crystalline 
form,  but  has  not  published  the  process  for  obtaining  it. 

Action  and  Uses.  —Internally,  if  the  quantity  be  large,  cantharides  occasion  a 
burning  heat  in  the  throat,  stomach,  and  bowels,  cause  nausea  and  vomiting,  often  of 
blood,  and  produce  fibrinous  and  sometimes  bloody  stools,  griping,  and  tenderness  of  the 
abdomen.  With  such  symptoms  death  may  take  place.  If  there  is  time  for  the  absorp- 
tion of  the  cantharidin,  there  is  also  strangury,  with  burning  pain  in  the  kidneys  and 
bladder ; the  urine  may  at  first  be  increased,  but  soon  grows  scanty,  albuminous,  or 
bloody  ; the  local  irritation  is  apt  to  occasion  erection  of  the  penis : sometimes,  though 
rarely,  erotic  excitement  and  seminal  emissions  occur,  and  in  the  female  genito-urinary 
excitation,  which  may  induce  abortion.  Gangrene  sometimes  attacks  the  genitals.  It  is 
said  that  venereal  excitement  is  more  apt  to  follow  the  action  of  cantharides  in  substance 
than  that  of  cantharidin,  and  the  difference  is  ascribed  to  an  essential  oil  which  the  for- 
mer contains,  and  which  gives  them  their  characteristic  nauseous  and  pungent  odor.  The 
general  symptoms  of  cantharidal  poisoning  consist  of  a frequent  and  small  pulse,  hurried 
breathing,  vascular  injection  of  the  face,  heat  of  skin,  thirst,  pain  in  the  head,  delirium, 
trembling,  tetanic  spasm,  and  coma.  The  smallest  fatal  dose  of  cantharides  on  record  is 
24  grains,  but  the  patient  was  a pregnant  female,  who  aborted.  An  ounce  of  the  tincture 
has  been  fatal  to  a boy  of  seventeen.  Camba  relates  that  several  members  of  a family 
were  poisoned  by  eating  small  birds  in  whose  alimentary  canal  were  found  fragments  of 
Spanish  flies  ( Therap . Monatsheft , iii.  186).  After  death  from  cantharides  the  gastro- 
intestinal and  urinary  mucous  membranes  are  congested,  bloody,  inflamed  (with  exuda- 
tion), or  gangrenous.  The  kidneys  are  sometimes  enlarged  and  engorged,  and  offer  the 
signs  of  parenchymatous  and  desquamative  nephritis,  but  chiefly  of  the  latter  (Eliaschoff, 
Virchow's  Archiv , xciv.  323  ; Aufrecht,  Pathologisch'e  Mittheil .,  ii.  32  ; E.  Lahousse, 
1885).  The  Malpighian  bodies,  the  secreting  tubules,  and  the  interstitial  tissue  are 
involved  ; the  blood-vessels  become  choked  with  blood-cells  ; albuminous  exudations  into 
the  tubules  take  place,  forming  casts  ; and  the  cells  of  the  uriniferous  canals  perish.  The 
bladder  contains  blood,  while  its  lining  membrane  is  red,  and  presents  blebs,  pseudo- 
membranes, and  sometimes  ulcers.  Applied  to  the  skin  in  cerates,  ointments,  etc.  or  as 
cantharidin,  this  agent  produces  a stinging  and  burning  pain,  with  redness,  followed  by 
vesication.  The  serum  contained  in  the  elevated  cuticle  is  pale  yellow,  alkaline,  and 
albuminous  ; the  chorion  is  pale  red,  and  its  papillae  are  prominent,  or,  if  the  action  has 
been  energetic,  the  chorion  is  highly  inflamed  and  may  be  coated  with  a fibrinous  layer. 
When  a blister  is  very  large  and  long  applied,  it  is  apt  to  produce  strangury,  and  the  urine 
is  then  covered  with  an  albuminous  pellicle.  It  may  also  cause  general  nervous  excite- 
ment and  fever,  inflammation  of  the  lymphatics  and  their  glands,  or  a diffuse  erythema, 
and  even  gangrene  of  delicate  parts  or  of  such  as  are  weakened  by  blood  diseases.  Hence 
a blistering  plaster  of  large  size  should  rarely  be  kept  upon  the  skin  until  complete  vesi- 
cation occurs.  Cantharidin  does  not  appear  to  cause  toxical  effects  as  readily  as  canthar- 
ides, yet  it  is  estimated  (Ewald)  as  being  200  times  stronger. 

Cantharides  in  the  form  of  the  tincture  have  been  given  in  low  forms  of  fever , and  in 
cases  of  exhaustion  from  protracted  hectic , with  alleged  advantage,  but  there  is  nothing 
to  render  this  method  eligible.  The  same  is  true  in  regard  to  dropsy  and  chronic 
bronchitis.  In  scaly  diseases  of  the  skin  they  have  been  found  very  useful,  and  should 
not  be  forgotten  when  arsenic  and  the  application  of  tar,  etc.  have  failed.  In  various 
forms  of  debility  of  the  bladder , such  as  produce  incontinence  of  urine  in  children  and  old 
men,  and  in  the  latter  dysury,  this  medicine  has  been  often  efficient.  Sometimes,  indeed, 
when  directly  injected  into  the  urethra,  long-standing  gleets  have  been  cured  by  it,  and 
also  by  its  internal  administration.  In  chronic  vesical  catarrh  it  deserves  more  confi- 
dence than  it  is  apt  to  receive.  Diabetes  insipidus  has  been  arrested  by  it,  In  all  of 


400 


CANTHARIS. 


these  cases,  except  the  last,  it  acts  by  producing  a substitutive  irritation.  Before  the 
pathological  conditions  which  produce  dropsy  were  recognized  a certain  number  of  cases 
of  this  affection  were  recorded  as  having  been  cured  by  cantharides.  Richter  restricted 
the  use  of  the  medicine  to  cases  distinguished  by  a torpid  state  of  the  system  ; Ferrier 
applied  it  to  the  cure  of  scarlatinous  dropsy ; and  it  was  recommended  by  Lieutaud  and 
by  Blackwall  (Stille,  Therapeutics , 4th  ed.  i.  427).  More  recently,  Grainger  Stewart 
(1871)  mentioned  the  tincture  of  cantharides  as  a good  stimulant  diuretic  in  the  later 
stages  of  the  inflammatory  form  of  Bright’s  disease  ; but  Dickinson  (1868)  spoke  of  it 
unfavorably.  E.  Wagner  (1882)  referred  to  it,  along  with  sabina,  as  possibly  dilating 
the  renal  capillaries.  In  1884,  Dr.  Bruen  claimed  that  the  tincture  of  cantharides  acts 
favorably  in  chronic  catarrhal  nephritis  combined  with  some  interstitial  process  and 
associated  with  more  or  less  cardiac  hypertrophy,  especially  when  given  along  with  digi- 
talis. He  also  stated  that  in  several  cases  of  cardiac  dropsy  “ it  very  constantly  increased 
the  urinary  secretion,  forming  a valuable  adjuvant  to  digitalis”  ( Phila . Med.  Times , xiv. 
275).  These  statements  are  confirmed  by  Fifield  in  relation  to  complete  snppression 
occurring  in  a hard  drinker  with  albuminous  urine.  The  tincture  of  cantharides  was 
given  hourly  in  drop  doses  ( Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  Mar.  1884,  p.  271).  It  has 
usually  been  held  that  digitalis  is  not  adapted  to  the  treatment  of  cardiac  hypertrophy, 
except  when  it  is  associated  with  predominant  dilatation.  The  irritant  action  of  cantharides 
upon  the  pelvic  organs  is  illustrated  by  its  use  in  amenhorrhoea  depending  upon  atonic 
conditions,  and  in  passive  seminal  emissions  of  the  same  nature.  The  old  but  long 
obsolete  use  of  cantharides  for  hydrophobia  has  been  proposed  anew,  but  upon  no  sub- 
stantial ground  (Med.  News , xlix.  596). 

In  1891,  Liebreich  was  led  by  experiments  on  animals  with  cantharidin  to  conclude  that 
if  this  substance  could  in  due  proportion  be  introduced  into  the  blood  it  might  bring 
about  the  elimination  of  tuberculous  deposits.  He  accordingly,  in  certain  cases  of  tuber- 
cular laryngytis , injected  into  the  back  1 cc.,  containing  T2^  of  a milligram  (g|p-  gr.),  but 
thought  that  4 decimilligram  (y-J-g-  to  y^Vo  gr  ) m most  cases  sufficient  when  given  every 
other  day.  The  rapidity  of  its  action  he  described  as  extraordinary  (Amer.  Jour.  Phar., 
lxiii.  295).  These  statements  were  in  a degree  confirmed  by  Germonic,  but  Forlaniniand 
Devoto  failed  to  do  so  ( Therap . Gaz .,  xv.  483,  763),  and  this  a-priori  remedy  for  phthisis 
failed,  as  others  had  done  before. 

Externally , the  uses  of  cantharides,  especially  in  blisters,  are  very  numerous.  They 
are  employed  — 1st,  to  stimulate  the  whole  or  a particular  part  of  the  system  ; 2d,  to 
promote  the  absorption  or  prevent  the  accumulation  of  inflammatory  exudations  ; 3d,  to 
recall  suppressed  discharges  ; 4th,  to  act  as  a depletory  ; 5th,  to  promote  the  cure  of 
internal  diseases  by  counter-irritation  of  the  skin.  Their  direct  remedial  iufluence  by 
stimulation  is  seen  in  cures  of  indolent  ulcers,  fstulse,  and  several  inveterate  diseases  of 
the  skin,  as  lepra,  psoriasis , alopecia  furfuracea , and  lupus,  and  even  of  certain  acute  ones, 
as  zona  and  erysipelas.  Liniments  containing  tincture  of  cantharides  are  among  the  best 
means  of  curing  alopecia.  Blisters  have  been  used  with  striking  effect  to  prevent  the 
increase  and  hasten  the  cure  of  boils  and  carbuncles , by  applying  them  so  as  to  cover  the 
whole  indurated  spot  and  allowing  them  to  vesicate  fully.  To  be  successful  this  method 
must  be  employed  early.  The  revulsive  operation  of  blisters  is  the  one  most  usually 
invoked,  and,  on  the  whole,  the  most  useful.  Wherever  there  is  a local  tendency  to  con- 
gestion the  timely  and  due  application  of  a blister  modifies  and  may  arrest  it ; thus  it 
may  prevent  serious  congestion  of  the  brain,  or  its  increase  if  already  existing,  or  its 
consequences  through  effusion  if  this  have  occurred,  by  depleting  the  neighboring  skin, 
and  probably  by  a reflex  action  upon  the  vaso-motor  nerves.  These  consequences  include 
paralysis  and  other  effects  of  congestion,  haemorrhage,  and  allied  conditions  of  the  brain 
and  spinal  cord.  Evidently,  vesication  should  not  be  made  in  their  acutest  stage,  and  its 
benefits  are  relatively  small  when  the  state  has  become  chronic  ; in  the  former  it  over- 
stimulates, in  the  latter  its  stimulation  is  useless.  Harkin  claims  to  have  frequently 
cured  nocturnal  eneuresis  by  blistering  the  upper  part  of  the  back  of  the  neck  (Jour. 
Am.  Med.  Assoc.,  viii.  266).  Many  cases  of  dropsy  of  the  brain  have  been  palliated  by 
blistering  the  scalp  ; many  of  (general  dropsy  by  blisters  cautiously  applied  to  the  legs ; 
many  also  of  hydrocele,  of  hydrarthrosis,  and,  most  of  all,  of  chronic  pleurisy,  in  which  no 
medical  means  are  more  efficient  than  a succession  of  large  blisters.  A similar  action  is 
no  doubt  exerted  by  blisters  when  applied  along  the  under  surface  of  the  penis  for  gleet 
and  to  the  sacrum  for  leucorrhoea,  to  prevent  abortion,  to  relieve  dysmenorrhoea,  and  to 
hinder  the  suppuration  of  deep-seated  buboes  and  other  glandular  inflammations.  In  the 
last-mentioned  cases,  if  the  inflamed  organ  is  very  superficial  or  the  action  of  the  blister 


CANTIIARIS. 


401 


is  deep,  suppuration  will  be  hastened.  Abscesses  of  various  sorts  may  be  conveniently 
evacuated  by  blistering,  and  especially  cold  abscesses,  if  the  skin  over  them  is  already 
thin. 

The  action  of  blisters  in  fevers  is  probably  both  stimulant  and  revulsive,  and  to  a certain 
extent  depletory.  The  clinical  facts  of  the  matter  are  simply  these  : that  blisters,  es- 
pecially on  the  nape  of  the  neck,  are  generally  useful  in  typhus  and  typhoid  fevers, 
whether  the  condition  be  one  of  excitement  or  of  coma  or  denote  a tendency  to  the  one 
or  the  other  state.  They  are  not  equally  beneficial  under  analogous  conditions  in  scar- 
latina or  variola,  or  during  acute  inflammation  of  the  lungs,  heart,  or  bowels.  Their 
stimulant  action  is  the  one  most  frequently  sought — i.e.  when  the  symptoms  are  moder- 
ately comatose — in  which  case  the  vesicant  should  not  remain  applied  longer  than  from 
two  to  four  hours,  its  fuller  effect  being  secured  by  a dressing  of  simple  ointment  or  a 
poultice.  In  cases  of  profound  stupor  a more  sustained  operation  is  necessary.  When 
coma  is  due  to  an  apoplectic  condition,  whether  haemorrhagic  or  only  congestive,  the 
active  depletory  operation  is  to  be  secured  by  a more  prolonged  application  of  the  blister, 
and,  if  necessary,  to  the  scalp  as  well  as  to  the  back  of  the  neck.  In  such  cases  also 
the  discharge  should  be  maintained  by  means  of  stimulant  dressings.  In  all  forms  of 
inflammation  of  the  eyes  blisters  are  invaluable  as  revulsives,  applied  to  the  nuchae,  be- 
hind the  ear,  or  on  the  forehead.  The  utility  of  blisters  in  acute  inflammation  of  the 
pleura  and  of  the  lungs  ( pleurisy  and  pneumonia')  depends  upon  their  being  applied  long 
enough  only  to  vesicate  superficially  and  so  as  to  cover  a large  portion  of  the  affected 
lung.  Smaller  blisters  may  relieve  a stitch  in  the  side,  but  will  not  so  distinctly  influ- 
ence the  progress  of  the  inflammation  within,  as  denoted  by  a diminution  of  the  cough, 
oppression,  and  fever.  Small  blisters  are  of  essential  use  in  those  limited  pleurisies 
which  occur  during  chronic  phthisis,  and  they  should  not  be  disregarded  in  analogous 
pneumonias.  In  pericarditis  blisters  should  seldom  be  omitted;  they  allay  pain,  probably 
limit  the  effusion,  and  certainly  promote  its  absorption.  The  revulsive  action  of  blisters 
is  also  a precious  resource  in  the  treatment  of  phlegmasia  alba,  of  phlebitis , and  espe- 
cially of  chronic  fluxes  of  the  bowels.  Nothing  is  more  efficient  in  the  last  than  a succession 
of  large  and  superficial  blisters.  The  treatment  of  acute  articular  rheumatism  by  blisters 
applied  upon  the  affected  joints  has  been  attended  with  a large  degree  of  success,  but  it 
is  doubtful  whether  the  benefit  is  due  so  much  to  a revulsive  or  counter-irritant  operation 
as  to  the  alkalinity  of  the  secretions  induced  by  blistering.  As  the  use  of  alkalies  in- 
ternally and  locally  usually  cures  acute  articular  rheumatism,  it  does  not  seem  worth 
while  to  employ  a remedy  which  accomplishes  no  more  than  they,  while  it  inflicts  much 
pain.  In  cases  of  retrocedent  rheumatism  or  gout  it  has  been  advised  to  blister  the 
joints  last  affected,  but  less  severe  revulsives  are  doubtless  as  useful.  Of  all  the  local 
methods  of  treating  neuralgia , that  by  blisters  is  the  most  efficient.  It  consists  in  apply- 
ing small  blisters  over  the  superficial  portions  of  the  affected  nerves,  especially  where 
they  emerge  from  bony  or  tendinous  openings  or  distribute  their  terminal  branches  to 
the  skin.  The  vesication  should  be  slight  when  the  nerves  are  superficial,  energetic 
when  the  trunks  lie  deep.  The  nerves  of  the  head,  face,  and  chest  require  the  former 
method — the  sciatic  nerve  the  latter.  In  cases  suitable  for  superficial  vesication  the 
operation  should  be  repeated  as  often  as  the  skin  heals  if  the  pain  continues  to  return  ; 
when  the  nerves  lie  deep,  the  discharge  from  the  blistered  surface  should  be  constantly 
maintained  until  the  cure  is  perfect.  Spinal  irritation , so  called,  is  most  frequently  a 
true  neuralgia,  but  is  sometimes  also  a constant  aching  of  the  muscles  along  the  spine, 
produced  by  nervous  exhaustion.  It  may  be  relieved  by  superficial  blistering,  and  by 
other  local  stimulants,  including  electricity,  provided  a suitable  regimen  by  rest  and  nu- 
tritious food  are  at  the  same  time  employed.  The  revulsive  action  of  blisters  is  also 
employed  in  convulsive  disorders  for  the  purpose  of  reducing  the  morbid  irritability  of  the 
cerebro-spinal  centres.  It  has  long  been  used  upon  the  spine  in  tetanus , and  with  une- 
quivocal advantage,  and  in  all  diseases  attended  with  tetanoid  rigidity  or  convulsions. 
Its  advantages  are  hardly  inferior  in  all  cases  of  paralysis  that  depend  upon  congestion 
or  inflammation  of  the  spinal  cord  or  its  membranes.  It  is  notably  a valuable  element 
of  the  treatment  in  epidemic  meningitis  when  the  phenomena  dependent  upon  nervous 
disorder  exceed  those  which  depend  upon  alterations  of  the  blood.  The  blisters  should 
cover  the  occiput  and  extend  along  the  spine  to  the  end  of  the  cervical  vertebrae  at  least, 
and  should  vesicate  thoroughly.  Spasms  of  particular  muscles  may  be  moderated  by 
blistering  the  affected  part,  as  in  scrivener  s spasm , and  the  nutrition  of  wasting  muscles 
after  rheumatism,  injuries,  etc.  is  generally  improved  by  a course  of  blistering.  Vomiting 
is  often  arrested  by  blistering  the  epigastrium, 


402 


CA  NTH  A BIS. 


A blister  should,  in  general,  be  applied  as  near  as  possible  to  the  part  which  it  is  in- 
tended to  benefit.  It  is  usually  undesirable  to  allow  it  to  remain  upon  the  skin  until 
vesication  has  been  accomplished.  Usually  from  three  to  six  hours , or  until  vesication 
commences , will  he  long  enough.  It  will  act  more  promptly  if  the  part  has  first  been 
cleansed  with  warm  water  and  soap  and  bathed  with  vinegar.  Fever  renders  the  action 
of  blisters  more  rapid,  and  coldness  and  nervous  insensibility  of  the  skin  retard  it,  and 
.so,  too,  does  a perspiring  skin.  They  act  more  promptly  when  the  skin  is  delicate,  hence 
more  so  in  children  and  females  than  in  other  persons  ; consequently,  especial  care  should 
be  used  to  prevent  their  excessive  action  in  such  patients,  either  by  diluting  the  blistering 
cerate  or  by  interposing  a piece  of  tissue-paper  or  fine  muslin  between  the  plaster  and 
the  skin.  If  it  is  desired  to  heal  a blister  soon,  the  raised  cuticle  should  be  cut  freely, 
so  as  to  evacuate  the  serum,  and  a dressing  of  absorbent  cotton  applied  and  secured  with 
a roller.  If  it  is  intended  to  maintain  the  discharge,  the  cuticle  should  be  removed,  and 
a dressing,  first  of  simple  cerate,  and  within  twenty-four  hours  one  of  basilicon  oint- 
ment, applied.  Under  such  stimulation  the  discharge  grows  purulent,  and  may  be  main- 
tained by  savine  cerate  or  mezereon  ointment.  As  a general  rule,  blisters  should  be  very 
cautiously  employed  in  old  and  in  young  persons  ; in  the  former  they  act  slowly  and 
often  leave  intractable  sores ; in  the  very  young  they  are  prone  to  excite  excessive  reac- 
tion and  occasion  gangrene.  During  epidemics  of  diphtheria  blisters  are  very  apt  to  be- 
come covered  with  false  membrane  ; during  other  epidemics  they  are  likely  to  be  attacked 
with  erysipelas  or  with  gangrene,  or  to  be  followed  by  abscesses  or  by  an  eruption  of 
boils.  To  prevent  the  strangury  which  plasters  of  cantharides  frequently  cause,  the 
most  usual  method  is  to  sprinkle  the  surface  of  the  plaster  with  finely-powdered  camphor 
or  to  brush  it  over  with  tincture  of  camphor.  The  efficacy  of  this  method  is  very  doubt- 
ful. It  has  been  alleged  that  if  the  plaster  be  sprinkled  with  bicarbonate  of  sodium 
mixed  with  coarsely-powdered  cantharides,  the  apprehended  effect  will  not  take  place. 
Blisters  should  never  be  used  when  the  urine  is  albuminous.  For  internal  administra- 
tion the  tincture  is  the  only  preparation  of  cantharides  which  it  is  prudent  to  use. 

Poisoning  by  cantharides  recently  taken  should  be  treated  by  a vegetable  emetic,  with 
copious  draughts  of  warm  water,  and  afterward  by  the  free  use  of  mucilaginous  or  albu- 
minous liquids.  But  chloroform  and  the  fixed  oils,  which  dissolve  the  active  principle  of 
cantharides,  should  not  be  administered.  General  warm  baths  and  emollient  cataplasms 
on  the  abdomen  should  be  used,  and  opiate  enemata. 

Mylabris  bifasciata,  M.  lunata,  M.  cicorii,  and  other  species  of  Mylabris  all 
contain  cantharidin,  and  differ  from  the  officinal  insects  chiefly  in  the  amount  they  fur- 
nish of  the  vesicating  principle.  Mylabris  cichorii  is  now  believed  to  represent  the 
medicinal  cantharis  of  the  ancients  (Adams,  Paulas  CEgineta , iii.  154),  by  whom  several 
species  or  varieties  of  it  were  employed  in  medicine,  which  all  owe  their  virtues  to  can- 
tharidin. It  is  said  to  have  been  regarded  by  the  inhabitants  of  Salamis  as  a specific 
for  hydrophobia  ( Dublin  Quart.  Jour.,  March,  1862,  p.  193). 

Blatta  orientalis,  or  common  cockroach,  was  anciently  employed  in  medicine.  An 
oily  decoction  of  these  insects  was  used  to  cure  warts,  scaly  eruptions,  indolent  ulcers, 
contusions,  boils,  etc.  Internally,  they  were  given  along  with  resin  for  the  relief  of 
dyspnoea  (Pliny).  Quite  recently  (1878)  in  Russia  they  have  been  employed  in  albu- 
minuria. They  are  said  to  diminish  the  quantity  of  albumen,  increase  the  perspiration 
and  urine,  remove  the  attendant  dropsy,  and  neither  to  impair  the  digestion  nor  irritate 
the  kidneys.  In  other  forms  of  dropsy  they  are  reported  to  have  exhibited  remarkable 
diuretic  powers.  More  recent  statements  of  the  use  of  this  agent  in  Russia  appear  to 
confirm  the  belief  in  its  diuretic  powers  in  dropsy  (Med.  Record , xvii.  682).  But  Paul, 
having  fully  tested  it  clinically,  concluded  that  it  has  no  medicinal  effect  whatever  (Bull, 
de  Therap.,  xcvi.  429,  473).  Stanislas  Martin  endeavored  to  discern  in  the  insect  the 
cause  of  the  virtues  attributed  to  it,  but  he  could  extract  from  it  only  a stinking  fat 
(Bull,  de  Therap.,  xcii.  168).  The  daily  dose  was  from  G-m.  0.25-9.30  (gr.  iv— v)  of  the 
powder  obtained  from  the  dried  insect. 

jFjNAS  afer,  a coleopterous  insect  that  abounds  in  Spain,  is  claimed  to  possess  over 
cantharides  the  following  advantages  : it  is  cheaper  ; it  acts  without  appreciable  pain  ; it 
is  equally  powerful,  and  does  not  irritate  the  urinary  organs  (British  Med.  Jour.,  May 
20,  1882). 

Red  ants  were  formerly  used  medicinally.  A large  number  of  them,  enclosed  in  a 
linen  bag,  were  infused  in  boiling  water,  which,  with  the  bag,  was  then  added  to  local  or 
general  baths  in  the  treatment  of  chronic  gout  and  rheumatism.  The  affected  foot  or 
hand  was  sometimes  subjected  for  several  hours  to  the  action  of  the  ants  by  being  thrust 


CA  PPARIS.—CA  PSTCUM. 


403 


into  their  hills.  Internally,  a tincture  of  domestic  manufacture  was  given,  and  which 
was  made  by  the  prolonged  infusion  of  a large  amount  of  ants  in  an  equal  quantity  of 
brandy.  An  officinal  spiritus  formicarum  was  formerly  in  common  use,  and  was  retained 
in  the  German  Pharmacopoeia  for  1890.  It  was  given  internally,  in  doses  of  from  20  to 
50  drops,  in  nervous  and  paralytic  affections,  and  also  applied  by  friction.  An  oil  made 
by  macerating  living  ants  in  almond  oil  was  used  for  similar  external  purposes. 

CAPPARIS. — Caper. 

Caprier , Fr. ; Kapper,  G. ; Alcaparro , Sp. 

Capparis  spinosae,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Capparideae. 

Origin  and  Description. — The  caper-bush  is  indigenous  to  the  countries  near 
the  Mediterranean  and  eastward,  and  is  cultivated  for  its  flower-buds,  which,  preserved 
with  salt  and  vinegar,  constitute  the  commercial  capers  (Capres,  Fr. ; Kappern,  G. ; 
Alcaparra,  Sp.).  The  buds  are  of  the  size  of  a pea,  have  4 sepals,  4 petals,  numerous 
stamens,  and  a stalked  ovary,  are  of  a gray-green  color,  and  have  a pungent  taste. 
The  leaves  are  roundish-oval,  entire,  bluish-green,  and  rather  fleshy,  and  have  a bitter 
and  acrid  taste,  which  is  stronger  in  the  bark,  particularly  in  the  thick  root-bark.  The 
oval  fruit  is  of  the  size  of  a plum,  and  contains  a number  of  flattish  bitter  seeds. 

Constituents. — The  buds  contain  a volatile  oil  having  an  alliaceous  odor,  and  a 
yellow  coloring  matter  identical  with  rutin.  (See  PtUTA.)  The  pungent  principle  of  the 
root-bark  is  a saponin-like  body  (Rochleder).  The  tannin  and  bitter  principle  have  not 
been  examined. 

Allied  Plants. — Capparis  cynophallophora,  C.  ferruginea,  Linn6,  and  other  West  Indian  * 
species,  have  vesicating  root-barks,  which  are  also  employed  for  their  diuretic  properties ; their 
fruit  is  antiscorbutic,  and  all  parts  are  regarded  as  possessing  more  or  less  anthelmintic  and 
antihysteric  properties.  C.  coriacea  (Simulo),  C.  ^Egyptiaca,  Lamarck , and  many  other  Eastern 
species  are  similarly  employed. 

C.  lodada,  R.  Brown.  The  fruit  is  used  like  pepper  in  Africa.  Many  other  species  yield 
similar  fruits. 

Polanisia  graveolens,  Rafinesque , a North  American  annual,  clammy-pubescent,  with  trifo- 
liate leaves,  small  whitish  flowers,  and  linear-oblong,  many-seeded  pods,  has  an  unpleasant  odor 
and  is  pungent  and  irritant. 

Gynandropsis  pentaphylla,  De  Candolle , an  East  Indian  plant,  naturalized  in  the  Southern 
United  States,  has  whitish  flowers  with  long-clawed  petals,  and  stalked  linear  capsules  with 
many  seeds ; odor  unpleasant.  The  seeds  have  been  used  in  the  place  of  mustard. 

Reseda  odorata,  Linn6  (Nat.  Ord.  Resedaceae’),  is  the  well-known  mignonette,  cultivated  lor 
its  sweet-scented  flowers.  Its  root  contains  allyl  sulphocyanate  (oil  of  mustard). 

Reseda  luteola,  Linni. — Dyer’s  weed,  Weld,  E. ; Herbe  jaune,  Gaude,  Fr. ; Wau,  Gelb- 
kraut,  Harnkraut,  G. — It  has  been  naturalized  to  some  extent  in  the  eastern  part  of  the  United 
States.  Its  conical  root  has  a radish-like  odor  and  taste.  The  leaves  are  oblong-lanceolate,  the 
upper  ones  sessile.  The  flowers  are  in  dense  racemes,  and  have  four  pale-yellowish  narrow 
petals.  The  ovate  capsule  terminates  with  four  short  horns.  The  herb  has  a persistently  bitter 
taste,  and  contains  luteolin , C20HuO8,  yellow,  silky,  volatile  needles  of  a faintly  bitter  and  slightly 
astringent  taste,  sparingly  soluble  in  water  and  ether,  more  soluble  in  alcohol ; acetate  of  lead 
precipitates  it  yellow,  and  ferric  chloride  is  colored  by  it  green,  and  afterward  red-brown. 
Fused  with  potassium  hydroxide,  it  yields  phloroglucin  and  protocatechuic  acid.  The  seeds  con- 
tain a green  drying  oil. 

CAPSICUM,  V.  S, — Capsicum. 

Capsid  fructus , Br  ; Fructus  capsici,  P.  G. ; Piper  Hispanicum. — Capsicum  fruit , 
Cayenne  ( African  or  Pod)  pepper,  E. ; Capcique , Piment  des  jar  dins,  Piment  rouge. 
Poivre  de  Cayenne,  Fr. ; Spanischer  Pfejfer,  Schlotenpfeffer,  G. ; Chile,  Pimiento,  Sp. 

The  dried  fruit  of  Capsicum  fastigiatum,  Blurne.  Woodville,  t.  80;  Bentley  and 
Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 188,  189. 

Nat.  Ord. — Solanaceae. 

Origin. — Several  species  have  long  since  been  cultivated  in  tropical  countries,  and 
since  the  early  part  of  the  sixteenth  century  also  in  Europe ; the’y  are  supposed  to  be 
indigenous  to  South  and  Central  America,  and  to  have  been  introduced  into  the  East 
Indies  by  the  Portuguese ; also  in  Africa.  The  plants  of  this  genus  are  herbaceous  or 
shrubby,  have  the  leaves  alternate  or  on  the  flowering  branches  sometimes  opposite, 
petiolate,  entire  or  wavy-margined,  and  produce  from  the  forks  of  the  branches  from  one 
to  three  pedunculate  flowers  with  a rotate,  five-lobed,  yellowish,  whitish,  or  reddish  corolla, 


404 


CAPSICUM. 


and  yielding  an  incompletely  two-  or  three-celled  berry  containing  numerous  flat  seeds. 
In  the  course  of  time  many  varieties  have  been  produced  through  cultivation.  The 
average  annual  importation  into  the  United  States  during  seven  years  ending  1882 
was  81,977  pounds  of  the  fruit  and  13,295  pounds  of  powdered  capsicum,  the  highest 
being  of  the  former  353,683  pounds  in  1876,  and  of  the  latter  25,352  pounds  in 
1881. 

Description. — C.  FASTIGIATUM,  Bl.,  is  a small  shrub  bearing  in  each  fork  two  or 
three  fruits  which  are  12  to  18  Mm.  (I  to  f inch)  long,  about  5 Mm.  (-|  inch)  thick,  of 
a conical-oblong  shape,  supported  by  a flattish  cup-shaped  five-toothed  calyx,  bright- 
scarlet  in  color ; become  shrivelled  on  drying,  and  consist  of  a thin,  translucent,  and 
fragile  pericarp  enclosing  two  cells  containing,  attached  to  the  thick  central  placenta, 
numerous  flat  reniform,  yellowish  seeds,  which  are  about  3 Mm.  (£  inch)  in  diameter 
and  have  a semicircular  embryo  enclosed  in  a fleshy  albumen.  The  odor  of  the  fruit  is 
peculiar,  its  taste  extremely  hot  and  biting.  This  kind  is  known  in  commerce  as  Afri- 
can or  bird  pepper,  and  in  Great  Britain  as  chillies  and  Guinea  pepper.  It  is  the  only 
kind  permitted  by  the  British  and  the  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia. 

C.  frutescens,  Linne , has  a similar  fruit,  which  is  ovate-oblong,  8 to  12  Mm.  (£  to  J 
inch)  long  and  3 or  4 Mm.  (i  or  £ inch)  thick. 

C.  annuum,  Linne , is  an  herbaceous  annual,  and  is  extensively  cultivated  in  the  tem- 
perate zone.  The  fruit  grows  singly  in  the  forks  of  the  stem,  is  much  larger  than  the 
preceding,  and  varies  in  shape  between  straight  or  curved,  conical,  erect,  or  pendu- 
lous, and  more  or  less  globular;  it  attains  a length  of  5 to  10  Cm.  (2  to  4 inches),  a 
thickness  of  25  to  38  Mm.  (1  to  1J  inches),  is  sometimes  yellow,  but  generally  red,  and 
after  drying  brownish  ; otherwise  it  resembles  the  preceding.  The  fruit  is  known  in 
England  as  pod  pepper , but  also  sold  as  chillies , and  is  the  kind  recognized  by  the  Ger- 
man Pharmacopoeia. 

C.  LONGUM,  Fingerhuth , C.  grossum,  Willdenow,  C.  cordiforme,  Miller , and  other  nominal 
species,  are  now  usually  regarded  as  varieties.  Some  cultivated  varieties,  like  much  of 
the  paprika  used  in  Hungary,  were  shown  by  H.  B.  Brady  (1880)  to  be  almost  destitute 
of  pungency. 

The  fruits  of  C.  cerasiforme,  Willdenow , of  the  size  and  shape  of  a cherry,  and  of  C. 
chlorocladum,  De  Candolle , small  and  oblong,  are  occasionally,  though  not  often,  met 
with. 

The  outer  layer  of  the  pericarp  'of  capsicum-fruit  consists  of  several  rows  of  tangen- 
tially elongated  cells  with  irregularly  thickened  walls,  and  containing  the  granular  red  or 
yellow  coloring  matter.  This  is  followed  by  a thicker  layer  of  thin-walled  parenchyma 
and  thin  spiral  vessel,  and  by  the  inner  membrane,  consisting  of  a single  row  of  flat  irreg- 
ularly thick-walled  cells. 

Powdered  capsicum  is  of  a dark  orange-red  color,  is  very  sternutatory  and  irritating, 
and,  particularly  when  prepared  from  the  second  species,  is  not  unfrequently  attacked  by 
insects. 

Constituents. — Since  the  analysis  made  (1816)  by  Bucholz  and  Braconnot  the 
name  of  capsicin  has  been  given  to  various  liquid  or  soft  preparations,  all  of  which  were 
more  or  less  impure,  though  containing  the  fiery  principle,  which  at  last  was  isolated  by 
J.  C.  Thresh  (1876),  who  found  it  to  be  a crystallizable  body  which  has  been  called  cap- 
saicin, is  with  difficulty  obtained  pure,  and,  according  to  Dr.  Buri,  has  the  composition 
C9Hu02.  A.  Meyer  (i889)  isolated  capsaicin  from  Capsicum  annuum  by  extracting 
with  boiling  ether,  evaporating,  and  taking  up  the  residue  with  oil  of  sweet  almonds. 
This  was  then  extracted  with  70  per  cent,  alcohol,  evaporated,  and  the  residue  dissolved 
in  solution  of  potassium  hydroxide  which  was  free  from  carbonate,  filtered,  and  the  solu- 
tion saturated  with  carbon  dioxide.  After  standing  some  days  the  capsiacin  crystallized ; 
it  was  then  washed  with  cold  water  and  cold  benzin.  It  is  present  in  small  quantities 
only,  and  intimately  associated  with  a red  fatty  matter  which  consists  chiefly  of  palmitic 
acid.  Buchheim’s  capsicol  (1873)  is  a red  oily  liquid  containing  the  active  principle, 
which  may  be  isolated  by  treating  the  oleoresin  prepared  with  ether  or  benzin  with  weak 
potassa  solution,  passing  carbon  dioxide  through  the  watery  liquid,  and  purif}Ting  the 
precipitate  by  recrystallization.  Capsaicin  is  colorless,  melts  at  59°  C.  (138.2°  F.),  vola- 
tilizes at  115°  C.  (239°  F.)  with  extremely  irritating  vapors,  and  dissolves  in  alcohol, 
fixed  oils,  ether,  amylic  alcohol,  benzene,  and  alkalies,  but  slowly  in  turpentine,  carbon 
disulphide,  and  petroleum.  It  yields  crystalline  compounds  with  barium,  calcium,  and 
mercury,  and  when  oxidized  with  nitric  acid  produces  an  oily  body,  oxalic  and  succinic 
acids,  and  another  crystalline  acid  whose  nature  has  not  been  determined.  The  red 
coloring  matter  of  capsicum  is  but  slightly  soluble  in  boiling  alcohol,  but  dissolves  read- 


CAEBO  ANIMALIS. 


405 


ily  in  oils,  carbon  disulphide,  petroleum,  amylie  alcohol,  ether,  and  chloroform.  Felle- 
tar  (1868)  isolated  from  capsicum  a volatile  alkaloid  which  has  the  odor  of  coniine,  but 
was  found  to  differ  from  this  alkaloid  by  Dragendorff  (1871)  in  the  different  shape  of 
the  crystals  of  its  hydrochlorate,  and  from  lobeline  in  not  being  colored  by  Frohde’s 
reagent.  The  odor  of  capsicum  is  in  part  due  to  a volatile  oil  consisting  chiefly  of 
stearopten  and  having  a parsley-like  odor;  from  100  pounds  of  capsicum  Fliickiger 
obtained  only  .02  Gm.  ( Pharmacographia ). 

Infusum  Capsici. — Infusion  of  capsicum,  E. ; Tisane  de  capsique,  Fr. ; Spanisch- 
pfeffer-Aufguss,  G. — Macerate  for  two  hours  capsicum,  240  grains  in  boiling  water  a pint, 
and  strain. — U.  S.  1870. 

Action  and  Uses. — Capsicum  is  an  irritant  and  a local  stimulant.  Applied  to  the 
skin,  it  causes  redness,  and  if  continuously  applied  may  ultimately  produce  vesication. 
In  proper  quantities  it  excites  a grateful  warmth  in  the  throat  and  stomach  and  quickens 
the  appetite  and  digestion.  It  tends  to  prevent  the  flatulence  occasioned  by  vegetable 
food,  and  for  this  purpose  is  largely  used  as  a condiment  in  hot  climates.  In  large  doses 
it  causes  a general  glow,  with  thirst,  but  does  not  raise  the  temperature  or  accelerate  the 
pulse.  If  too  lavishly  used,  it  sometimes  brings  on  torpor  of  the  digestive  functions,  but 
often  it  seems  not  to  be  injurious. 

Capsicum  is  of  use  by  enabling  feeble  stomachs  to  digest  food,  as  is  shown  by  its 
efficacy  in  atonic  dyspepsia.  Freely  taken,  it  is  said  to  cure  haemorrhoids , as  black  pepper 
and  still  other  stimulants  are  known  to  do.  It  perhaps  sometimes  cures  intermittent  fever , 
and  in  obstinate  cases  is  a good  stimulant  to  conjoin  with  quinine.  Cheron  attributes  to 
capsicum  the  power  of  controlling  menorrhagia.  In  common  with  other  agents  of  the 
same  nature,  it  tends  to  prevent  or  to  relieve  sea-sickness.  In  delirium  tremens  it  is  bene- 
ficial by  enabling  the  patient  to  retain  and  digest  food  ; indeed,  we  have  seldom  in  this 
disease  found  it  necessary  to  employ  other  internal  remedies  than  a strong  soup  well 
seasoned  with  red  pepper.  As  a local  stimulant  it  is  particularly  efficient  in  tonsillitis. 
The  simple  form  may  sometimes  be  arrested  in  its  first  stage  by  a capsicum  gargle ; and 
in  the  sore  throat  of  scarlet  fever  and  in  diphtheria  no  application  is  so  efficient  as  a 
strong  gargle  or  wash  made  with  this  substance. 

The  dose  of  powdered  capsicum  is  from  Gm.  0.30-0.60  (gr.  v-x).  An  infusion  is  made 
by  adding  Gm.  2.50  (gr.  xl.)  of  capsicum  to  half  a pint  of  boiling  water ; of  this  a table- 
spoonful may  be  given  at  a dose.  An  infusion  used  with  remarkable  success  in  an  epi- 
demic of  angina  maligna  (diphtheria  ?)  is  thus  described : Take  2 tablespoonfuls  of  red 
pepper  and  the  same  quantity  of  fine  salt ; beat  them  into  a paste,  and  add  half  a pint 
of  very  sharp  vinegar.  Of  this  the  dose  for  an  adult  is  said  to  be  a tablespoonful  every 
hour.  It  is  excessively  acrimonious,  but  it  is  alleged  to  hasten  the  separation  of  the 
false  membranes  and  sloughs  from  the  fauces.  Tincture  of  capsicum  is  a familiar  addi- 
tion to  liniments  used  to  relieve  muscular  rheumatism , neuralgia , nervous  headache , flatu- 
lent colic,  etc.,  when  applied  on  cloths  or  by  friction.  A plaster  made  of  Burgundy  pitch 
(or  the  officinal  capsicum  plaster),  with  which  powdered  capsicum  or  its  oleoresin  has 
been  incorporated,  is  a very  efficient  stimulant  in  cases  of  chronic  lumbago  and  other 
forms  of  muscular  rheumatism , neuralgia , etc.  Analogous  to  this  is  an  11  extract  of  red 
pepper”  mixed  with  resin  plaster  and  spread  upon  paper.  These  preparations  excite  a 
sense  of  warmth  in  the  skin,  and  redden  but  do  not  vesicate  it. 

CARBO  ANIMALIS,  U.  S.,  JBr. — Animal  Charcoal. 

Carbo  ossium,  Ebur  ustum , Spodium. — Boneblack,  Ivory  black , E. ; Gharbon  animal , 
Noir  d’os,  Fr. ; T hierkohle,  Knochenkohle , Beinschwarz , G. ; Carbone  animale , Nero  di 
ossa,  It. ; Carbon  de  hueso,  Sp. 

Charcoal  prepared  from  bone. 

Preparation. — Boneblack  of  commerce  is  obtained  by  roasting  bones  deprived  of 
fat  in  iron  cylinders  until  vapors  cease  to  be  given  off,  when  charcoal  is  left  intimately 
mixed  with  about  ten  times  its  weight  of  the  inorganic  constituents  of  bone,  and  con- 
taining a little  nitrogen,  probably  as  nitrogen  carburet.  The  volatile  products  of  the 
dry  distillation  are  various  gases,  an  ammoniacal  aqueous  liquid  called  bone-spirit , and  a 
blackish-brown  tar  called  bone-oil. 

Carbo  animalis  purificatus,  U.  S.,  Br. — Purified  animal  charcoal,  E. ; Charbon 
animal  purifie,  Fr. ; Gereinigte  Knochenkohle,  G. 

Animal  Charcoal,  in  No.  60  powder,  100  Gm. ; Hydrochloric  Acid,  300  Gm. ; Boiling 
Water,  a sufficient  quantity.  Introduce  the  animal  charcoal  into  a capacious  flask,  add 


406 


CARBO  ANIMALIS. 


200  6m.  of  hydrochloric  acid  and  100  Cc.  of  boiling  water,  and  connect  the  flask  with 
an  upright  condenser.  By  means  of  a sand-bath  keep  the  mixture  gently  boiling  during 
eight  hours.  Then  add  500  Cc.  of  boiling  water,  transfer  the  mixture  to  a muslin 
strainer,  and  when  the  liquid  has  run  off  return  the  charcoal  to  the  flask.  Add  to  it 
100  Cc.  each  of  hydrochloric  acid  and  of  boiling  water,  boil  for  two  hours,  again  add 
500  Cc.  of  boiling  water,  transfer  the  whole  to  a plain  filter,  and,  when  the  liquid  has 
run  off,  wash  the  residue  with  boiling  water  until  the  washings  give  only  a faint  cloud- 
iness with  silver  nitrate  test-solution.  Dry  the  powder  in  a drying-oven  and  immediately 
transfer  it  to  well-stoppered  vials. — U.  S. 

The  process  of  the  British  Pharmacopoeia  is  very  similar  to  that  given  above,  16  ounces 
of  boneblack,  10  fluid-ounces  of  hydrochloric  acid,  and  20  fluidounces  of  water  being 
used. 

Carlo  carnis  , or  meat  charcoal,  is  prepared  by  cutting  3 parts  of  veal  freed  from  fat 
in  small  pieces,  mixing  it  with  1 part  of  small  bones,  and  roasting  in  a covered  vessel 
until  inflammable  vapors  cease  to  escape ; the  residue  when  cold  is  powdered. 

Properties. — Boneblack,  like  purified  animal  charcoal,  is  a dull  black,  rather  dense, 
inodorous,  and  nearly  tasteless  mass,  which  for  uses  in  the  arts  is  either  granulated  or 
powdered.  It  is  entirely  insoluble  in  all  simple  solvents ; the  purified  animal  charcoal 
also  in  hydrochloric  acid,  which  dissolves  a portion  of  the  boneblack.  The  compounds 
removed  in  its  purification  are  the  inorganic  constituents  of  the  bones,  and  consist  mainly 
of  calcium  phosphate,  with  some  calcium  carbonate  and  magnesium  compounds.  When 
ignited  with  free  access  of  air,  boneblack  leaves  a white  ash,  amounting  to  at  least  86  per 
cent,  of  the  original  weight,  which  should  be  completely  soluble  in  hydrochloric  acid  with 
the  aid  of  heat.  It  has  the  remarkable  property  of  removing  organic  coloring  matters 
from  their  neutral  or  somewhat  acid  solutions,  and  is  employed  for  that  purpose  in  the 
refining  of  sugar  and  in  many  chemical  operations,  for  many  of  which  its  previous  puri- 
fication is  requisite  to  avoid  contamination  with  earthy  matters  which  would  be  dissolved 
by  the  organic  acids. 

Tincture  of  litmus  diluted  with  twenty  times  its  bulk  of  water,  agitated  with  purified 
animal  charcoal  and  thrown  upon  the  filter,  passes  through  colorless. — Br.  When  ignited 
at  a high  temperature  with  a little  red  mercuric  oxide  and  free  access  of  air,  purified 
animal  charcoal  leaves  not  more  than  about  2 per  cent,  of  residue  (Br.).  If  1 part  of 
it  be  digested  with  2 parts  of  hydrochloric  acid  and  6 parts  of  water,  no  effervescence 
should  take  place  (absence  of  carbonates),  and  the  filtrate  should  not  yield  a precip- 
itate on  being  supersaturated  with  ammonia  (absence  of  earthy  phosphates)  ; boneblack 
yields  a voluminous  white  or  whitish  precipitate.  The  clear  ammoniacal  liquid  or 
filtrate  should  not  be  precipitated  by  solution  of  barium  chloride  or  test-mixture  of 
magnesium  (absence  of  alkali  sulphate  and  phosphate),  and  on  being  evaporated  to 
dryness  and  ignited  should  leave  no  fixed  residue  (absence  of  potassium  and  sodium 
salts).  “ If  2 Gm.  of  the  powder  be  ignited  at  a red  heat  with  free  access  of  air  in  a 
broad  shallow  porcelain  or  platinum  dish,  it  should  not  leave  a residue  weighing  more 
than  0.08  Gm.  or  4 per  cent,  of  the  original  weight  (limit  of  silicates  and  other  fixed 
inorganic  matter).  If  1 Gm.  be  boiled  with  a mixture  of  3 Cc.  of  potassium  hydroxide 
test-solution  and  5 Cc.  of  water  for  several  minutes,  the  filtrate  should  be  colorless 
(evidence  of  complete  carbonization).” — U.  S. 

Purified  animal  charcoal  removes  from  their  aqueous  solutions  tannin,  alkaloids,  bitter 
principles,  basic  lead  and  other  metallic  salts,  iodine,  lime,  etc. — a property  which  it 
shares  more  or  less  with  boneblack,  and  which  was  first  observed  by  Figuier  (1810). 
This  property  is  due  to  the  finely-divided  state  of  the  carbon  and  the  surface  attraction 
resulting  therefrom,  and  may  be  imparted  to  wood  charcoal  if,  previous  to  charring,  the 
vegetable  substances  are  intimately  mixed  with  flint,  lime,  or  other  earthy  matters  ; a mix- 
ture of  10  parts  of  pipe-clay,  50  parts  of  finely-powdered  coal,  and  2 of  tar  yields,  after  car- 
bonization, a charcoal  possessing  excellent  decolorizing  properties,  depending  in  part  upon 
the  presence  of  alumina.  By  reheating  purified  animal  charcoal  with  potassium  carbo- 
nate its  decolorizing  power,  which  was  impaired  by  the  treatment  with  acid,  is  greatly 
increased,  and  similar  active  charcoals  are  obtained  from  blood,  horn,  leather,  etc.  by  mix- 
ing them  with  the  salt  mentioned,  carbonizing  the  mixtures,  and  exhausting  the  residues 
with  water. 

The  value  of  animal  charcoal  as  a decolorizer  is  best  ascertained  by  treating  known 
weights  of  it  with  diluted  solutions  of  indigo  or  litmus,  and  ascertaining  the  bulk  which 
may  be  completely  decolorized  by  slow  percolation.  Corenwinder  (1853)  proposed  treat- 
ment of  the  charcoal  with  diluted  solutions  of  lime  and  sugar,  and  determining  by  titra- 


CARBO  L1GNI. 


407 


tion  the  amount  of  lime  remaining  in  solution.  The  decolorizing  property,  however,  does 
not  appear  to  be  strictly  proportional  to  the  lime-  or  salt-absorbing  power  of  animal  char- 
coal. When  the  decolorizing  power  of  the  charcoal  has  been  exhausted  it  cannot  be 
restored  by  heating  to  redness,  because  a dense  charcoal,  resulting  from  the  absorbed 
substances,  will  then  be  deposited  in  the  pores ; but  if  allowed  to  ferment  this  substance 
will  be  destroyed,  and  by  washing  the  charcoal  with  water,  drying,  and  igniting  it  becomes 
again  a good  decolorizer.  Pelouze  (1854)  proposed  to  effect  the  revivification  of  spent 
animal  charcoal  by  treating  it  with  caustic  alkalies  or  alkaline  carbonates ; according  to 
Renner  (1862),  the  process  is  a tedious  one.  Placing  the  decolorizing  power  of  bone- 
black  =1,  Bussy  ascertained  that  of  purified  animal  charcoal  to  be  =1.6;  purified 
animal  charcoal  ignited  with  potassium  carbonate  = 20 ; blood  ignited  with  potassium 
(or  calcium)  carbonate  = 20  ; glue  ignited  with  potassium  carbonate  = 15.5. 

Composition. — Animal  charcoal  consists  of  amorphous  carbon  intimately  mixed 
with  the  inorganic  compounds  of  bone  (see  Os),  chiefly  calcium  phosphate  and  carbonate, 
which  are  partly  or  wholly  removed  in  purification  with  hydrochloric  acid. 

CARBO  LIGNI,  U.  S.,  Br.— Charcoal. 

Carbo  ligni  pidveratus,  P.  G. ; Carlo  prseparatus,  Carbo  e ligno , Carlo  vegetabilis. — 
Wood  charcoal , E.  ; Charbon  vegetal , Fr.  ; Holzkohle , Prdparirte  Kohle , G. ; Carbone  di 
legno,  It. ; Carbone  vegetal , Sp. 

Charcoal  prepared  from  soft  wood  and  very  finely  powdered. — U.  S. 

Preparation. — Wood  heated  to  about  300°  C.  (572°  F.)  leaves  charcoal  as  a residue. 
On  a large  scale  this  is  effected  in  iron  cylinders  (see  Acidum  Aceticum  Pyrolignosum), 
in  closed  chambers  of  brick,  or  by  the  method  of  pile-burning,  in  which  the  heat  devel- 
oped by  the  combustion  of  a portion  of  the  wood  effects  the  charring  of  the  rest.  Two, 
and  sometimes  three,  stacks  of  billets  of  wood  of  even  length  are  piled  up  around  some 
stakes  driven  into  the  ground  until  a flattish  cone  of  from  30  to  70  feet  in  diameter  has 
been  formed,  which  is  covered  by  sod  and  earth,  openings  being  left  near  the  base  for  the 
escape  of  the  water  which  is  at  first  expelled.  After  the  heap  has  been  kindled  in  the 
centre  the  top  opening  is  closed,  and  when  the  wood  has  become  perfectly  dry  the  open 
space  at  the  base  is  likewise  closed  and  the  pile  left  to  smoulder  for  several  weeks.  The 
charcoal  is  finally  withdrawn  and  extinguished  by  water,  dry  sand,  or  charcoal-dust.  The 
yield  varies  with  the  kind  and  dryness  of  the  wood.  Karsten  found  that  a wood  which 
lost  at  100°  C.  57  per  cent,  and  at  i50°  C.  (302°  F.)  an  additional  10  per  cent,  of  its  weight, 
would  yield  only  14  per  cent,  of  charcoal,  while  the  same  wood  dried  yielded  25  per  cent. 
The  difference  is  explained  by  the  formation  of  carburetted  hydrogen  on  the  passing  of 
aqueous  vapors  over  red-hot  charcoal,  and  the  same  cause  accounts  for  the  smaller  yield 
in  the  dry  distillation  of  wood  when  the  cylinders  are  rapidly  heated,  so  that  the  wood 
near  the  iron  is  charred  while  the  pieces  in  the  centre  still  contain  water. 

Properties. — Charcoal  has  the  shape  and  shows  the  texture  of  the  wood  from  which 
it  was  obtained : it  is  black,  inodorous,  tasteless,  very  porous  and  brittle,  insoluble  and 
infusible.  Alcohol  in  which  charcoal  has  been  digested  should  not  become  colored,  and 
on  evaporation  should  leave  no  residue.  When  charcoal  is  heated  in  the  air  it  is  con- 
verted into  carbon  monoxide  or  dioxide,  but  it  should  not  burn  with  flame  (absence  of 
organic  compounds).  Ordinary  wood  charcoal  is  usually  incompletely  carbonized,  and 
requires  to  be  again  ignited  in  nearly-closed  vessels  until  it  ceases  to  give  off  inflam- 
mable vapors,  and  to  be  reduced  to  a uniform,  fine,  non-gritty,  dull-black  powder  before 
it  is  adapted  for  medicinal  use.  “ If  1 Gm.  of  charcoal  be  boiled  with  a mixture  of  3 
Cc.  of  potassium  hydroxide  test-solution  and  5 Cc.  of  water  for  several  minutes,  the  filtrate 
should  be  colorless  or  nearly  so  (evidence  of  complete  carbonization).” — U.  8.  Pre- 
pared by  pile-burning,  charcoal  is  considerably  denser  than  when  obtained  in  retorts ; 
the  latter  kind  is  therefore  preferable,  particularly  that  made  from  soft  wood,  which  is 
more  porous  than  that  obtained  from  hard  wood.  Charcoal  made  from  young  shoots  of 
the  willow,  poplar,  or  linden  is  for  these  reasons  most  esteemed.  It  contains  the  inor- 
ganic constituents  present  in  the  wood,  and  these  amount  in  well-prepared  charcoal  to 
about  1 per  cent. 

Like  other  porous  bodies,  wood  charcoal  possesses  the  property  of  absorbing  gases ; 
this  was  first  observed  (1777)  by  Fontana  and  by  Scheele,  and  Lowitz  (1785)  discovered 
the  clarifying  and  decolorizing  property  of  wood  charcoal,  in  consequence  of  which  it  was 
used  in  the  refining  of  sugar  until  animal  charcoal  was  found  to  be  better  adapted  for 
this  purpose.  The  volumes  of  gases  absorbed  by  recently-ignited  wood  charcoal  are  not 


408 


CARBO  LIGNI. 


uniform,  but  vary  with  the  nature  of  the  gas  and  of  the  charcoal,  as  was  shown  by 
Morozzo  (1783),  the  absorbing  power  being  for  oxygen  10,  for  carbon  dioxide  35,  for 
hydrogen  sulphide  55,  and  for  ammonia  about  100  volumes,  to  1 of  the  charcoal. 
Considerable  heat  is  generated  thereby,  as  also  by  the  oxidation  of  some  of  the  gases  by 
the  absorbed  oxygen,  and  may  increase  to  spontaneous  ignition  ; and  the  increase  in 
weight  of  pile-burned  charcoal  may  amount  to  from  10  to  15  per  cent,  by  absorption  of 
watery  vapors.  This  property  explains  the  uses  of  charcoal  as  a deodorizer,  for  which 
purpose  it  should  be  freshly  burned  or  reheated  to  expel  the  gases  condensed  in  its  pores. 
Odorous  principles  are  not  only  absorbed  by  it  from  the  atmosphere,  but  likewise  from 
solutions  in  water  and  weak  alcohol  ; its  employment  for  the  removal  of  the  fusel  oil 
from  spirits  is  well  known.  (See  Alcohol.)  It  acts  in  a manner  similar  to  animal 
charcoal  in  precipitating  from  their  aqueous  solutions  metallic  salts,  or  even  the  metals, 
most  bitter  principles,  and  coloring  matters  ; but  for  the  latter  purpose  is  much  inferior  to 
the  former. 

Composition. — Wood  charcoal  is  amorphous  carbon  mixed  with  the  inorganic  con- 
stituents of  the  wood  from  which  it  has  been  prepared.  If  insufficiently  burned  it  is 
also  contaminated  with  empyreumatic  products  resulting  from  the  partial  decomposition 
of  the  organic  principles. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Wood  charcoal  is  an  ingredient  of  certain  dentifrices, 
and  is  employed  in  some  chemical  processes  for  its  deoxidizing  action,  as  in  the  prepara- 
tion of  sulphurous  acid  and  in  the  reduction  of  bromates  and  iodates  to  bromides  and 
iodides.  It  is  used  in  making  Cataplasma  carbonis,  Br. 

Carboneum,  Carbonium. — Carbon,  E. ; Carbone,  Fr. ; Kohlenstoff,  G. — Symbol  C.  Atomicity 
quadrivalent  or  bivalent.  Atomic  weight  11.97. — Carbon  is  extensively  diffused  in  nature; 
combined  with  oxygen  as  carbonic  anhydride,  C02,  usually  called  carbon  dioxide,  it  exists  to  a 
small  extent  as  a constant  ingredient  of  the  atmosphere  ; it  is  found  in  the  mineral  kingdom  in 
the  free  state  as  well  as  in  various  combinations,  most  notably  as  carbonates ; and  it  is  invari- 
ably present  in  all  organized  beings  and  organic  compounds,  which,  when  heated  with  a limited 
access  of  air,  usually  become  black  from  carbonization — i.  e.  the  separation  of  carbon. 

Carbon  exists  in  the  following  three  allotropic  modifications : 

1.  Diamond  is  found  chiefly  in  India  near  Golconda,  Borneo,  Southern  Africa,  and  Brazil,  and 
is  in  colorless  and  variously  colored  octahedrons  of  3.5  to  3.6  specific  gravity.  It  is  a non-con- 
ductor of  electricity  and  the  hardest  substance  known.  Lavoisier  proved  it  to  be  pure  carbon  ; 
when  burned  it  usually  leaves  between  0.05  and  0.2  per  cent,  ash  ; amorphous  diamond,  which 
is  used  for  polishing  the  crystalline,  may  leave  up  to  2 per  cent.  The  value  of  crude  diamonds 
exported  in  1881  from  the  Cape  of  Good  Hope  is  estimated  to  exceed  £4,500,000. 

2.  Graphite,  Plumbago  or  black  lead  (Plombagine,  Crayon  noir,  Fr. ; Wasserblei,  Beissblei, 
G.)  has  been  found  in  many  countries,  crystallizes  in  hexagonal  plates  varying  in  specific  grav- 
ity between  1.8  and  2.5,  is  of  a black-gray  color,  fatty  to  the  touch,  quite  soft,  and  a good  con- 
ductor of  electricity,  and  leaves  between  0.2  and  5 per  cent.,  occasionally  even  as  much  as  46 
per  cent.,  of  ash. 

3.  Amorphous  carbon  exists  in  nature  as  coal . of  which  there  are  three  principal  varieties — 
namely,  lignite,  bituminous  coal , and  anthracite  ( lithanthrax ) — which  contain  respectively  about 
66,  80,  and  90  per  cent,  of  carbon,  partly  in  the  form  of  organic  compounds.  Artificially  pre- 
pared, it  constitutes  wood  charcoal , animal  charcoal , coke , and  lampblack , the  latter  being  obtained 
by  the  incomplete  combustion  of  resinous  matters ; after  it  has  been  heated  in  covered  vessels  to 
expel  the  volatile  organic  compounds  it  constitutes  a nearly  pure  carbon. 

Coke  is  the  residue  left  from  the  dry  distillation  of  coal,  and  consists  of  amorphous  carbon 
contaminated  with  the  mineral  constituents  of  the  coal. 

When  burned  with  an  insufficient  supply  of  oxygen,  carbon  is  converted  into  carbon  monoxide , 
CO ; with  a full  supply  of  air  it  yields  carbon  dioxide , C02.  The  chemistry  of  carbon  in  its 
various  combinations  constitutes  what  is  known  as  organic  chemistry. 

Action  and  Uses. — Charcoal  in  the  stomach  absorbs  more  or  less  of  the  gases  and 
liquids  contained  in  that  organ.  Unlike  alcohol,  salt,  and  some  other  substances,  it  does 
not  retard — but,  on  the  contrary,  hastens — the  decomposition  of  organic  matter,  while  it 
renders  latent  the  gases  evolved  during  the  process.  That  a portion  of  this  action  is 
owing  to  the  minute  subdivision  of  the  charcoal  is  shown  by  the  analogous  effects  of  dry 
earth,  sand,  and  gravel  upon  decomposing  organic  matters  ; and  whether  the  action  is  due 
to  any  other  cause  is  more  than  doubtful.  It  is  not  determined  absolutely  whether  char- 
coal derived  from  ivory  or  bone  or  box-wood,  or  that  which  is  prepared  from  poplar  or 
other  light  porous  wood,  is  the  more  efficient,  but  it  is  certain  that  charcoal  of  any  kind 
is  most  active  when  freshly  made. 

For  all  forms  of  flatulence  charcoal  is  one  of  the  most  certain  remedies,  and  at  the 
same  time  for  those  other  dyspeptic  phenomena  which  sometimes  attend  it,  particularly 
nausea,  fetid  breath,  foul  taste  in  the  mouth,  constipation,  palpitation  of  the  heart,  etc. 


CAR  BON  El  DISULPHIDUM. 


409 


It  is  remarkable  that  charcoal  does  not  tend  to  produce  constipation , but  rather  to  mod- 
erate it  when  it  exists.  The  cases  in  which  it  is  said  to  accumulate  in  the  bowels  and 
obstruct  them  are  not  well  authenticated.  If,  however,  an  obstruction  already  exists, 
charcoal  by  accumulation  will  aggravate  it.  (Comp.  Richardson,  Asclepiad , Oct.  1884.) 
Its  power  of  relieving  flatulence  is  not  confined  to  that  of  the  stomach  and  small  intes- 
tine ; it  has  proved  efficient  when  the  colon  was  alone  distended  and  a stricture  existed 
near  the  sigmoid  flexure.  It  has  seemed  to  be  a remedy  for  intestinal  worms  in  some 
cases  of  intestinal  indigestion  with  colic,  flatulence,  and  irregular  stools.  Jules  Guerin, 
Maurel,  and  others  (Bull,  de  Therap.,  xcviii.  279  ; xcix.  274)  found  finely-powdered 
charcoal  a very  efficient  remedy  for  choleriform  diarrhoea  both  in  adults  and  children.  It 
was  administered  with  milk  diluted  with  water  and  sweetened.  In  epidemic  dysentery  it 
has  proved  very  serviceable  when  administered  by  the  stomach  and  also  by  the  rectum, 
allaying  the  tormina  and  tenesmus  and  correcting  the  fetor  of  the  stools,  while  it  lessened 
their  frequency  and  rendered  them  more  feculent.  It  has  been  recommended  for  lessen- 
ing tympanites  in  typhoid  fever,  but  its  administration  does  not  produce  this  result,  and 
has  occasioned  intestinal  haemorrhage.  If  this  objection  to  its  use  did  not  exist,  it  would 
be  found  one  of  the  best  internal  remedies  for  the  fetor  of  the  stools  in  that  disease.  As 
an  application  to  gangrenous  and  foul  ulcers , incorporated  largely  in  a poultice  made  with 
flaxseed,  bread-crumb,  or  yeast,  it  is  very  efficient  in  correcting  the  smell  and  hastening 
a separation  of  the  dead  tissue.  As  an  ingredient  of  dentifrices  for  cleansing  the  teeth 
and  purifying  the  breath  the  use  of  charcoal  is  familiar.  Its  deodorizing  power  has 
caused  it  to  be  employed  in  the  arts  and  for  sanitary  purposes,  as  for  preventing  the  gen- 
eration of  putrid  gases  in  graves,  vaults,  sewers,  privies,  and  innumerable  analogous 
places,  and  notably  for  the  filtration  of  foul  drinking-water,  which  it  not  only  deprives  of 
its  smell,  but  also  of  its  organic  constituents,  and  renders  it  pure  and  clear. 

The  dose  of  charcoal  is  one  or  more  teaspoonfuls.  It  should  be  as  freshly  prepared  as 
possible.  If  intended  to  correct  digestive  fermentation,  it  should  be  taken  directly  after 
meals,  and  is  best  administered  in  water,  the  portion  adhering  to  the  mouth  being  washed 
down  by  a mouthful  of  water  alone.  It  has  been  prepared  and  given  in  gelatin  capsules. 
This  method  ensures  a more  active  preparation  than  one  which  has  been  exposed  to  the  air. 

CARBONEI  DISULPHIDUM,?/,  Carbon  Disulphide. 

Carhoneum  sulfur atum,  P.  G.  ; Alcohol  sulfuris,  Carhonei  bisulpliidum. — Carbon  bisul- 
phide, E. ; Sulfure  de  carbone,  Fr. ; Schwefelkohlenstoff , Schwefelalkohol,  G. ; Sidfuro  di 
carbonio,  It. 

Formula  CS2.  Molecular  weight  75.93. 

Origin. — Scheele  (1777)  noticed  the  production  of  a very  fetid  gas  on  heating  a 
mixture  of  sulphur  and  charcoal,  but  Lampadius  (1796)  by  accident  first  obtained  the 
compound  in  a liquid  state.  Clement  and  Desormes  (1802)  elaborated  a process  for  its 
preparation,  and  stated  it  to  be  a compound  of  carbon  and  sulphur  ; its  exact  composition, 
however,  was  first  proven  by  Vauquelin  (1811)  and  by  Berzelius  (1812). 

Preparation. — Carbon  disulphide  is  made  on  the  large  scale  by  heating  in  a cylin- 
der fragments  of  charcoal  or  coke  to  redness  and  adding  through  a tube,  near  the  bottom, 
pieces  of  sulphur,  which  is  vaporized  and  unites  with  the  red-hot  charcoal.  The  con- 
densed liquid  contains  sulphur  in  solution,  from  which  it  is  freed  by  distillation  in  a 
water-bath,  and  the  compounds,  having  a disagreeable  odor,  are  removed  by  prolonged 
agitation  with  milk  of  lime,  litharge,  chlorinated  lime,  powdered  corrosive  sublimate,  or 
copper  sulphate,  decanting,  adding  about  2 per  cent,  of  a bland  fixed  oil  or  beeswax,  and 
rectifying  in  a water-bath.  E.  Allary  (1881)  uses  for  the  same  purpose  water  and  potas- 
sium permanganate,  the  latter  added  in  small  quantities,  until  after  agitation  the  liquid 
retains  its  violet  color ; redistillation  is  not  necessary.  Carbon  disulphide  should  be  kept 
in  well-stopped  bottles  in  a cool  place,  remote  from  lights  or  fire. 

Properties. — Thus  obtained,  it  is  a very  mobile  colorless  liquid  having  a high 
refracting  power,  and  when  quite  pure  a rather  agreeable  ethereal  odor  and  a pungent 
aromatic  and  cooling  taste ; but  often  it  is  of  a more  or  less  fetid  odor  from  the  presence 
of  other  volatile  compounds.  It  has  the  specific  gravity  1.290  at  0°  C.  (32°  F.)  and 
1.268-1.269  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  U.  S.  It  boils  at  46°  or  47°  C.  (114.8°  or  116.6° 
F.),  U.  S.  It  evaporates  rapidly  at  the  ordinary  temperature,  and  on  passing  a rapid 
current  of  dry  air  over  its  surface  partly  congeals.  It  is  very  inflammable — more  so 
than  ether — and  burns  with  a blue  flame,  yielding  sulphur  dioxide  and  carbon  dioxide 
or  monoxide.  It  requires  about  1000  parts  of  water  for  solution,  is  soluble  in  almost  all 


410 


CARBONEI  DISULPHIDUM. 


proportions  of  absolute  alcohol,  ether,  chloroform,  and  fixed  and  volatile  oils,  and  in  1 1 
to  2 parts  of  official  alcohol.  It  dissolves  freely  phosphorus,  sulphur,  bromine,  iodine, 
fats,  volatile  oils,  caoutchouc,  and  other  compounds,  and  unites  with  some  of  the  sulphur 
bases,  forming  sulphocarbonates , which  correspond  to  the  carbonates,  containing  sulphur 
in  place  of  oxygen.  Dissolved  in  alcohol  and  heated  in  the  presence  of  ammonia, 
ammonium  sulpho-cyanate  and  hydrogen  sulphide  are  produced ; CS2  -J-  2NH3  yields 

nh4cns  + h2s. 

Tests. — Carbon  disulphide  should  not  change  the  color  of  moistened  litmus-paper 
(absence  of  sulphurous  acid),  and  when  agitated  with  solution  of  lead  acetate  should  not 
produce  a brown  or  black  color  (absence  of  hydrogen  sulphide).  A portion  evaporated 
spontaneously  in  a glass  or  porcelain  vessel  should  leave  no  solid  residue  (absence  of 
sulphur). 

Uses. — In  the  arts  it  is  largely  employed  for  the  extraction  of  fats  and  in  the  vulcan- 
ization of  caoutchouc,  and  has  been  proposed  as  a solvent  for  obtaining  the  delicate  per- 
fumes of  flowers. 

Potassium  sulphocarbonate,  K2CS3,  is  prepared  by  agitating  potassium  monosul- 
phide, K2S,  with  carbon  disulphide.  andcevaporating  at  about  30°  C.  (86°  F.).  It  forms 
yellow  deliquescent  prisms,  which  are  sparingly  soluble  in  alcohol,  have  a peppery  and 
sulphurous  taste,  and  above  60°  C.  (140°  F.)  are  converted  into  the  red-brown  anhy- 
drous salt.  A solution  containing  also  potassium  carbonate,  but  sufficiently  pure  for 
destroying  the  phylloxera  and  other  insects,  is  made  by  agitating  potassa  solution  with 
carbon  disulphide  as  long  as  the  latter  is  dissolved ; and  if  alcohol  be  present  potassium 
xanthogenate,  K(C2H5)CS20,  is  also  formed.  Both  salts  are  slowly  decomposed  in  the 
soil,  with  the  liberation  of  carbon  disulphide. 

Action  and  Uses. — Bisulphide  of  carbon  was  described  in  1826  by  Lampadius, 
who  discovered  the  compound  in  1796.  He  noted  its  rubefacient  and  also  its  refrigerant 
action  upon  the  skin,  and  recommended  its  vapor  in  syncope,  and  the  use  of  liniments 
containing  it  for  frost-bite,  rheumatism,  and  local  paralyses,  as  well  as  its  internal  admin- 
istration. Mansfield  and  others  employed  it  in  gouty  and  rheumatic  disorders  and  for 
quickening  uterine  contractions.  Pellingahr  wrote  of  it  as  a cardiac  stimulant,  diuretic, 
and  emmenagogue,  but  found  it  useless  in  gout  and  rheumatism  (Richter,  Ausfurlich. 
Arzneimittel .,  iii.  464;  Supl.  Bd.,  p.  457).  Tiedemann  described  its  effects  upon  animals, 
and  Kaaf  upon  himself,  confirming  the  observation  of  Pellingahr  (Strumpf,  Arzneim.,  ii. 
533).  Krimer  used  it  to  produce  cold  by  evaporation  in  the  reduction  of  strangulated 
herniae.  Turnbull  employed  a sponge  saturated  with  the  liquid  and  contained  in  a wide- 
mouthed  bottle,  which  he  applied  over  indurated  lymphatic  glands.  Page  of  Boston 
found  that  its  vapor  relieved  local  pains ; and  Schiel  of  St.  Louis  used  it  in  a liquid  form 
with  alcohol  in  similar  cases,  and  especially  in  neuralgia  ( U.  S.  Dispensatory , 1830). 
A similar  application  of  it  was  made  by  Nessley  of  Ohio  in  1872.  Michaelson  applied 
it  to  burns  on  cotton  wadding.  It  appears  to  have  been  first  used  as  a general  anaesthetic 
by  Harold  Tanlow  in  1848  (Gruibert,  Nouveaux  medicaments , p.  604),  and  soon  afterward 
it  was  tried  on  man  by  Dr.  Simpson  of  Edinburgh,  and  by  Snow  on  mice  (Pereira,  Mater. 
Med.,  1848,  Amer.  ed.,  i.  377).  Simpson  described  it  as  a very  rapid  and  powerful 
anaesthetic,  but  in  several  instances  it  produced  depressing  and  disagreeable  visions,  and 
was  followed  by  headache,  giddiness,  and  obstinate  vomiting.  It  rendered  the  pulse  very 
frequent.  Its  anaesthetic  effect  also  was  very  transient ; and  another  objection  to  its  use 
was  found  in  its  very  unpleasant  odor,  which  was  compared  to  that  of  putrid  cabbage. 
When  pure  it  loses  this  peculiarity.  Applied  topically,  it  blunts  the  sensibility  of  the 
skin. 

This  anaesthetic  has  been  found  useful  for  producing  insensibility  of  the  skin  in  limited 
surgical  operations,  such  as  opening  abscesses,  the  evulsion  of  nails,  etc.  It  has  also  been 
applied  locally  for  the  relief  of  headache,  neuralgia,  and  toothache.  It  has  been  found  to 
relieve  the  neuralgic  pains  of  locomotor  ataxia  when  applied  along  the  spine  ; and  Sanders 
(Med.  News,  xl.  371  ; xlii.  201)  has  stated  that  he  found  it  very  efficient  as  a topical  remedy 
in  pure  neuralgia,  especially  of  the  occipital,  cervical,  intercostal,  and  sciatic  nerves.  In 
other  words,  its  action,  like  that  of  chloroform,  is  counter-irritant  and  anaesthetic.  It  has 
been  made  use  of,  but  not  very  successfully,  to  lessen  the  swelling  of  enlarged  lymphatic 
glands , of  goitre,  and  of  lupoid  and  syphilitic  growths.  For  the  latter  purposes  it  may 
be  applied  in  an  ointment  containing  1 part  of  the  preparation  to  from  5 to  10  of  lard. 
It  has  been  used  with  alleged  benefit  in  elephantiasis  Arabum,  (Brit.  Med.  Jour.,  Dec.  24, 
1887).  For  producing  local  ansesthesia  it  may  be  employed  as  an  atomized  vapor,  and 
as  a local  anodyne  the  lotion  described  below  may  be  employed.  It  is  alleged  to  be  a 


CARBONEI  TETRA CHLORID UM. 


411 


very  efficient  application  for  indolent  ulcers  when  slightly  brushed  over  their  surface, 
which  should  then  be  dusted  with  subcarbonate  of  bismuth  and  supported  by  a bandage. 
The  liquid  causes  severe  pain  for  a few  moments.  Tincture  of  iodine  is  said  to  correct 
its  objectionable  odor  when  mixed  with  it  in  the  proportion  of  one-fourth.  The  mixture 
may  also  be  scented  with  mint,  bergamot,  etc.  Bisulphide  of  carbon  may  be  administered 
internally  in  doses  of  from  2 to  6 or  more  drops.  It  may  be  taken  in  an  alcoholic  liquor, 
in  mucilage,  or  in  milk. 

Dujardin-Beaumetz  and  some  other  physicians  have  exalted  the  antiseptic  and  rube- 
facient and  anodyne  action  of  this  preparation,  For  the  latter  purposes  it  may  be 
applied  on  a wad  of  cotton  covered  with  oiled  silk.  In  half  a minute  severe  pain  is 
produced,  but  it  rapidly  subsides  on  the  removal  of  the  dressing.  For  the  former  object 
it  has  been  used  in  the  treatment  of  typhoid  fever , and  has  been  thought  to  prevent  the 
absorption  of  the  septic  products  contained  in  the  intestine.  It  certainly  deodorizes,  and 
perhaps  disinfects,  the  stools.  The  following  is  the  mode  of  administration  recom- 
mended: R.  Pure  bisulphide  of  carbon,  Gm.  25  (%vj)  ; Spirit  of  peppermint,  50  drops; 
Water,  Gm.  500  (1  pint).  Keep  in  a well-stoppered  bottle  of  the  capacity  of  a pint  and 
a half,  agitating  occasionally,  and  renew  the  water  as  often  as  the  solution  is  used.  It  is 
given  in  tablespoonful  doses  mixed  with  milk  or  wine  and  water.  Its  influence  on  the 
course  and  issue  of  the  disease  has  not  been  demonstrated.  (Compare  Lancet , Mar.  1889, 
p.  596.) 

CARBONEI  TETRACHLORIDUM— Carbon  Tetrachloride. 

Carbonii  tetrachloridum , Carboneum  chloratum. — Chlorocarbon , Tetr achlor -methane ) E. ; 
Bichlorure  de  carbone , Formene  perchlore , Fr. ; Chlorkohlenstoff , G. 

Formula  CC14.  Molecular  weight  153.45. 

Preparation. — Chlorocarbon  was  discovered  by  Begnault  in  1839,  and  is  produced 
by  the  action,  in  sunshine,  of  chlorine  upon  marsh-gas,  CH4,  or  upon  chloroform,  CHC13, 
hydrochloric  acid  being  also  formed  in  both  cases.  It  is  best  prepared  by  passing  well- 
dried  chlorine  gas  through  carbon  disulphide,  and  afterward  through  a porcelain  tube 
wrapped  in  sheet  copper  and  filled  with  fragments  of  porcelain  maintained  at  a red  heat, 
whereby  carbon  tetrachloride  and  sulphur  chloride  are  produced  ; CS2  -f-  3C12  yields 
CC14  -f  S2C12.  The  vapors  are  condensed  by  the  aid  of  ice  or  a refrigerating  mixture, 
and  the  liquid  thus  obtained  is  slowly  added  to  an  excess  of  potassa  solution  or  milk  of 
lime,  whereby  the  sulphur  chloride  is  decomposed  and  dissolved.  The  chlorocarbon 
separates  at  the  bottom  and  is  purified  by  distillation. 

Properties. — It  is  a colorless,  thin,  oily  liquid  of  an  agreeable  aromatic  odor,  insol- 
uble in  water,  soluble  in  alcohol  and  ether,  and  not  decomposed  by  contact  with  aqueous 
solution  of  potassa,  which,  however,  will  remove  any  carbon  disulphide  that  may  be 
present.  Chlorocarbon  has  the  spec.  grav.  1.599,  and  boils  at  77°  C.  (170.6°  F.).  Geuther 
(1858)  observed  that  by  the  action  of  nascent  hydrogen  it  is  gradually  converted  into 
hydrochloric  acid  and  chloroform  or  dichlor-methane,  CH2C12,  according  to  the  temper- 
ature at  which  the  reaction  takes  place.  . 

It  is  regarded  as  a chlorinated  derivative  of  marsh-gas  (see  Methyleni  Bichlor- 
IDUM)  ; according  to  its  elementary  composition  it  is  carbon  tetrachloride,  or,  according 
to  the  old  notation,  bichloride  of  carbon , CC12  or  C2C14,  which  name  is  still  occasionally 
used. 

Allied  Compound. — Carbon  trichloride,  IIexachloretiiane,  C2C16.  Mol.  weight  236.16. — 
It  is  prepared  by  passing,  in  sunshine,  dry  chlorine  gas  into  ethyl  chloride  or  ethydene  chloride 
(see  page  139)  until  the  liquid  congeals,  when  the  mass  is  recrystallized  from  alcohol.  Carbon 
trichloride  forms  colorless  or  white  rhombic  prisms,  is  brittle  and  easily  pulverizable,  has  an 
aromatic  camphoraceous  odor,  and  is  nearly  tasteless.  Its  specific  gravity  is  about  2.0.  It  is 
insoluble  in  water,  freely  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  fats,  and  volatile  oils,  burns  in  the  presence 
of  alcohol  with  a red  flame,  melts  at  160°  C.  (320°  F.),  boils  at  182°  C.  (359.6°  F.),  subliming  in 
crystals,  and  volatilizes  slowly  at  ordinary  temperatures. 

Action  and  Uses. — When  inhaled  by  man  it  produces  a sense  of  coolness  in  the 
fauces  and  of  general  warmth,  followed  promptly  by  anaesthesia  and  a complete  return 
of  consciousness.  It  has  been  used  with  success  in  relieving  neuralyia  and  various  local 
pains,  including  dysmenorrhoea  and  the  throes  of  parturition.  As  its  primary,  or  at  least 
proximate,  action  is  upon  the  heart,  and  as  several  deaths  are  laid  to  its  charge,  it  ought 
never  to  be  employed  internally.  The  experiments  of  Regnauld  and  Villejean  in  1866 
also  led  them  to  conclude  that  this  anaesthetic  is  “extremely  dangerous”  ( Bull . de 
Therap.,  cx.  490). 


412 


CARDAMOMUM. 


CARDAMOMUM,  U.  S.,  Br.— Cardamom. 

Cardamomi  semina , Br.  ; Fructus  (semen)  Cardamomi  ( minoris ),  P.  G-. ; Cardamomum 
minus , s.  Malabaricum. — Malabar  cardamoms,  E. ; Gardamomes , Fr.  ; Oardamomen , Kleine 
Kardamomen,  Gr. ; Cardamomo  menor , Sp. 

The  fruit  of  Elettaria  repens,  Baillon,  s.  E.  Cardamomum,  Maton , s.  Amomum  repens, 
Sonnerat , s.  Alpinia  (Amomum,  TFAfte,  Matonia,  Smith , Benealmia,  Roscoe)  Cardamo- 
mum, Roxburgh.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 267.  The  dried  ripe  seeds  kept  in 
their  pericarps,  Br. 

Nat.  Ord. — Scitamineae. 

Origin. — This  perennial  plant  is  indigenous  to  Hindostan,  more  particularly  to  the 
mountainous  region  of  the  Malabar  coast,  where  it  is  also  extensively  cultivated  in  clear- 
ings made  in  the  forests,  so  that  the  plants  will  enjoy  sufficient  shade,  or  in  the  betel-nut 
plantations,  as  in  Mysore.  It  grows  to  the  height  of  1.8  to  3 M.  (6  to  10  feet)  from  a 
thick  horizontal  rhizome,  has  lanceolate  leaves  which  are  .3  to  .6  M.  (1  to  2 feet)  long,, 
and  almost  sessile  upon  the  long  hairy  sheaths,  and  produces  three  or  four  nearly  hori- 
zontal scapes  which  bear  several  short  racemes  of  greenish-white  flowers.  It  flowers 
during  the  rainy  season,  and  the  inferior  capsules  are  collected  from  and  after  October,, 
before  they  are  quite  ripe,  to  avoid  their  splitting,  and  dried  by  artificial  heat.  The  drug 
is  exported  in  chests  from  Bombay,  Madras,  and  other  East  Indian  ports.  29,000  pounds 
of  cardamom  were  imported  into  the  United  States  in  1876,  and  65,000  pounds  in  1880. 

Description. — Cardamom-fruits  vary  in  length  from  1 to  2 Cm.  (J  to  i inch),  and 
are  commercially  divided  into  shorts  and  short-longs  or  mediums  and  longs.  They  are  ovoid 
or  oblong,  obtusely  triangular,  rounded  at  base,  beaked  above,  of  a pale-buff  color,  longi- 
tudinally striate,  and  three-celled.  The  capsular  integuments  are  thin,  leathery,  the  three 
cell-partitions  starting  from  the  centre  of  the  valves.  The  seeds  are  attached  to  a central 
placenta  in  two  rows,  brown,  slightly  glossy,  about  5 Mm.  inch)  long,  and  3 Mm.  (i 
inch)  broad,  angular,  transversely  rugose,  with  a depressed  hilum  and  a channelled  raphe 
on  one  side,  and  contain  a club-shaped  embryo,  the  radicle  projecting  toward  the  hilum, 
and  the  upper  part  completely  surrounded  by  the  horny  endosperm,  and  this  by  a thicker 
saccate  layer  of  granular  perisperm.  Each  seed  is  enclosed  in  a thin  membranous  nearly 
colorless  arillus.  The  integuments  are  nearly  inodorous  and  tasteless ; the  seeds  have  an 
agreeable  odor  and  a warm  aromatic  and  pungent  taste.  The  seed-coat  consists  of  three 
distinct  layers,  each  one  formed  of  a single  thickness  of  cells,  those  of  the  outer  layer 
being  brownish,  rather  thick-walled,  and  upon  transverse  section  square  in  outline  and 
small ; those  of  the  second  layer,  much  larger,  thin-walled,  square ; and  those  of  the 
inner  layer,  radially  elongated,  dark-brown,  and  with  a small  cavity  near  the  outer  end. 
The  outer  albumen  contains  minute  starch-granules  and  crystalloid  proteids ; the  inner 


Fig.  48.  Fig.  50. 


Cardamom-seed;  transverse  and  longitudinal  section  of  capsule;' c,  seeds:  d,  section  of 

section  ; magnified  5 diameters.  seed  with  embryo  ; magnified. 

albumen  and  embryo  are  filled  chiefly  with  fixed  oil  and  mucilage;  the  volatile  oil  is. 
mostly  contained  in  the  large  thin-walled  cells  of  the  testa. 


CARDUUS  BENEDICTTJS. 


413 


Good  cardamoms  should  be  full  and  plump,  and  yield  75  per  cent,  of  their  weight  in 
seeds.  Malabar  and  Aleppy  cardamoms  are  usually  ovoid  and  have  a short  beak  ; Madras 
cardamoms  are  more  oblong  and  acuminate. 

Other  Varieties  of  cardamoms  are  used  in  the  East  Indian  islands  and  China,  but  are  rarely 
met  with  in  our  commerce.  The  Ceylon  or  long  cardamoms  are  occasionally  seen  in  commerce  ; 
they  are  obtained  from  Elettaria  major,  Smith , which  is  now  usually  regarded  as  a variety  of  the 
officinal  plant,  and  is  indigenous  to  Ceylon.  The  fruit  is  about  4 Cm.  (1£  inches)  long,  lanceo- 
late oblong,  acutely  triangular,  with  flat  sides  and  a long,  attenuated  apex.  It  is  usually  of  a 
darker  color,  and  the  seeds  are  less  agreeable  in  odor  and  taste.  The  round  cardamoms  of  Siam, 
Java,  and  other  islands  are  the  fruits  of  Amomum  cardamomum,  Linnt,  of  the  size  of  a cherry, 
globular  or  somewhat  ovate  in  shape,  the  three  sides  convex  ; the  taste  of  the  seeds  is  more 
camphoraceous.  The  Bengal  cardamoms , obtained  from  Am.  aromaticum,  Roxburgh , are  an  inch 
long,  oblong  or  oval,  rounded  below,  terminated  by  a short  nipple,  and  near  the  apex  provided 
with  nine  wings.  Similar  in  appearance,  but  terminating  above  in  a long  beak-like  calyx,  is  the 
Nepal  cardamom , the  origin  of  which  is  not  known.  The  large  or  winged  Java  cardamom  is  the 
nearly  globular  capsule  of  Am.  maximum,  Roxburgh , about  25  Mm.  (1  inch)  long,  obtusely  tri- 
angular, each  side  provided  with  three  or  four  firm,  short  membranaceous  wings,  which  are  best 
observed  after  soaking  the  fruit  in  water.  The  round  Chinese  cardamoms , which  are  rounded  on 
the  side,  are  probably  produced  by  Am.  globosum,  Loureiro. 

Constituents. — Trommsdorff  (1834)  obtained  4.8  per.  cent,  volatile  oil,  10.4  fixed 
oil,  and  smaller  quantities  of  starch,  malate  (?)  of  potassium,  gummy  extractive,  and 
coloring  matter.  The  volatile  oil  has  a spec.  grav.  of  .93  to  .94  and  the  odor  and  taste  of 
the  seeds,  is  colorless  or  yellowish,  dextrogyre,  and  contains  oxygen.  Fliickiger  (1872) 
found  nearly  11  per  cent,  of  moisture  and  15  per  cent,  of  ash  in  air-dry  Ceylon  car- 
damoms, and  in  the  ash  0.79  per  cent,  of  manganese,  which  he  also  observed  to  be  present 
in  the  leaves  and  fruits  of  other  Zingiberaceae.  Warnecke  (1886)  obtained  6.12  per 
cent,  of  ash  from  air-dry  cardamoms. 

Action  and  Uses. — Cardamom  is  a warm  and  agreeable  carminative  and  stomachic. 
It  may  be  added  to  tonic  and  stimulant  preparations.  An  infusion  made  with  Gm.  4.00 
(3j)  of  the  bruised  seeds  in  half  a pint  of  boiling  water  may  be  given  in  doses  of  a 
wineglassful.  The  officinal  tinctures  are  more  commonly  employed. 

CARDUUS  BENEDICTUS.— Blessed  Thistle. 

Hcrba  cardui  benedicti , P.  G. — Chardon  benit , Fr. ; Benedict endist el,  G. ; Cardo  bene- 
detto , It. ; Cardo  santo,  It.,  Sp. 

The  leaves  and  flowering  tops  of  Cnicus  benedictus,  Gaertner , s.  Centaurea  benedicta, 
Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Compositae,  Cynareae. 

Description. — The  “blessed  thistle”  is  an  annual  woolly  plant  which  is  indigenous 
to  Western  Asia  and  South-eastern  Europe,  and  has  been  naturalized  in  other  parts  of 
Europe,  and  sparingly  so  in  the  United  States.  It  is  about  45  Cm.  (18  inches)  high,  has 
a reddish  angular  branching  stem,  and  alternate,  oblong  or  ovate-lanceolate,  sinuately  pin- 
natifid,  find  dentate  leaves,  each  tooth  bearing  a soft  spine.  The  lowest  leaves  are  20 
Cm.  (8  inches)  or  more  long,  and  narrowed  into  an  angular  winged  petiole ; the  upper 
ones  are  smaller,  sessile,  and  somewhat  decurrent.  The  flower-heads  are  terminal,  ovate 
in  shape,  about  31  Mm.  (1£  inches)  long,  surrounded  by  large  bracts,  have  the  imbricate 
scales  of  the  involucre  prolonged  into  a yellowish  spine,  and  contain  numerous  tubular 
yellow  florets  and  terete  many-ribbed  akenes,  which  are  crowned  with  ten  short  teeth  and 
with  a pappus  consisting  of  ten  long  and  ten  alternate  short  bristles,  the  latter  forming 
an  inner  row.  The  leaves  and  flowering  tops  are  collected  mostly  from  cultivated  plants, 
and  lose  on  drying  about  75  per  cent.  The  dry  leaves  have  a grayish-green  color.  The 
taste  is  saline  and  strongly  bitter.  In  Mexico,  Circium  mexicanum,  I)e  Candolle , is 
employed. 

Constituents. — Analyzed  by  Morin,  the  widely-diffused  constituents  of  herbs  were 
found  associated  with  a brown-yellow  amorphous  bitter  principle.  The  latter  was  obtained 
pure  by  Nativelle  (1839),  and  ascertained  by  Scribe  (1842)  to  be  present  in  allied  plants. 
This  cnicin  is  prepared  like  salicin,  crystallizes  in  colorless  needles,  is  very  bitter,  freely 
soluble  in  alcohol  and  wood-spirit,  slightly  so  in  cold  water  and  ether,  and  dissolves  in 
strong  hydrochloric  acid  with  a green,  and  in  sulphuric  acid  with  a red,  color. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — The  Extractum  cardui  benedicti  of  European  pharmaco 
poeias  is  made  by  exhausting  the  herb  with  hot  water  and  evaporating. 


414 


CAROTA. 


Allied  Plants. — Centaurea  calcitrapa,  Linnt *. — Star-thistle,  E. ; Chardon  6toile,  Fr. ; Stern- 
distel,  G. — A European  annual  which  is  sparingly  naturalized  in  some  places  of  the  United 
States  near  the  coast.  The  pinnately-lobed  leaves  have  the  teeth  prolonged  into  a thin  spine, 
the  involucre  is  spinous  in  the  middle,  the  flowers  are  tubular  and  purple,  and  the  akenes  with- 
out pappus  ; the  herb  has  a bitter  taste. 

Centaurea  cyanus,  Linne. — Bluebottle,  E. ; Bluet,  Fr. ; Kornblume,  G. — A European  annual 
somewhat  naturalized  in  North  America,  also  cultivated.  It  has  a globular  involucre,  with 
appressed  fringed  scales  and  bright  blue-colored  tubular  florets,  the  marginal  ones  being  largest. 
The  nearly  tasteless  florets  are  employed  in  fumigating-powders. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  “ blessed  thistle”  was  anciently,  and  even  until  quite 
recent  times,  held  in  high  esteem  as  a remedy  for  all  manner  of  diseases,  including  fevers 
and  pulmonary,  urinary,  hepatic,  and  digestive  disorders.  It  appears  to  have  acted 
mainly  as  a bitter  tonic,  but  in  large  doses  it  produced  nausea,  vomiting,  and  diarrhoea. 
Its  active  principle,  cnicin,  in  the  dose  of  5 or  6 grains,  causes  a burning  sensation  and 
constriction  in  the  pharynx  and  oesophagus,  warmth  in  the  stomach,  and  sometimes  nausea, 
vomiting,  colic,  and  diarrhoea.  It  has  really  no  virtues  differing  materially  from  those 
of  numerous  other  bitter  tonics,  and  it  most  nearly  resembles  dandelion  and  Colombo  in 
its  operation.  It  may  be  used  in  atonic  dyspepsia— preferably,  perhaps,  in  cases  attended 
with  hepatic  congestion.  The  infusion  is  prepared  with  from  Gm.  15-30  (Jss-j)  of  the 
herb  to  Gm.  250  (f^viij)  of  water.  The  decoction  is  apt  to  nauseate.  An  extract  has 
been  employed  in  doses  of  from  Gm.  0.05-1  (gr.  v-xv).  Star-thistle  has  virtues  similar 
to  those  of  “ blessed  thistle,”  and  blue-bottle  (corn-flower)  florets  are  slightly  astringent 
and  have  been  used  in  collyria.  Milk-thistle  (Carduus  marianus)  is  alleged  to  have 
arrested  haemoptysis  (Med.  Record , xxii.  625),  but  the  evidence  in  its  favor  is  inade- 
quate. A writer  in  the  Edinburgh  Med.  Journal  (xxix.  284)  identifies  “ Carmedik”  with 
Kardenbenedikt,  or  “ blessed  thistle,”  stating  that  the  popular  name  is  a corruption  of 
the  Dutch  botanical  title.  It  is  an  aromatic  bitter,  which  possesses  also  a slight  degree 
of  astringency.  (See  Carthamus.)  Cnicin  has  been  given  in  doses  of  from  Gm.  0.30- 
0.60  (gr.  v-x)  as  an  antiperiodic. 

Cynara  scolymus,  or  burr  artichoke,  anciently  used  as  a salad,  and  reputed  even  in 
modern  times  to  be  a purifier  of  the  blood,  has  been  extensively  employed  in  South 
Carolina  as  a diuretic  and  also  in  jaundice  (Porcher.  Resources  of  the  Southern  Fields, 
etc.,  p.  470). 

CAROTA.— Carrot. 

Carotte , Fr. ; Mohre,  Gelbe  Riibe , G.  ; Zannahoria , Sp. 

The  fruit  of  Daucus  Carota , Linne.  Woodville,  t.  50;  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med. 
Plants,  135. 

Nat.  Ord. — Umbelliferse,  Orthospermae. 

Origin. — A biennial  plant  indigenous  to  Northern  Asia  and  the  greater  part  of 
Europe,  and  naturalized  in  this  country,  growing  in  dry  fields  and  along  roadsides,  and 
cultivated  to  a considerable  extent  for  its  fleshy  root.  The  furrowed  stem  is  bristly,  30 
to  90  Cm.  (1  to  3 feet)  high,  branching ; the  leaves  are  bi-  or  tri-pinnatifid,  the  segments 
with  lanceolate  or  linear  incisions  ; the  involucre  consists  of  nine  to  twelve  long  pinnatifid 
leaves ; the  umbels  are  on  long  naked  peduncles,  at  first  level,  finally  concave ; the  flowers 
are  white  or  whitish,  the  central  one  dark-purple,  and  commonly  sterile,  except  in  the 
first  umbel,  which,  according  to  Meehan  (1882),  usually  has  a fertile  central  flower;  the 
fruit  is  very  hispid. 

Description. — The  fruit  ( Fructus  dauci,  s.  carotse),  which  for  medicinal  purposes  is 
collected  from  the  wild  plant,  is  about  3 Mm.  (i  inch)  long,  oval,  dorsally  compressed, 
and  gray-brownish  ; each  mericarp  has  five  hispid  filiform  primary  ribs,  two  of  which  are 
lateral,  the  remaining  three  upon  the  back  ; between  these  are  four  secondary  ribs,  two 
lateral  and  two  upon  the  back,  each  beset  with  long  spiny  bristles,  and  covering  one  small 
oil-tube,  two  additional  oil-tubes  being  upon  the  nearly  flat  face.  The  fruit  has  a slight, 
aromatic  odor  and  a pungent  aromatic  taste. 

The  root  ( carotte , F.  Cod.)  of  the  wild  plant  is  thin,  spindle-shaped,  woody,  white,  of 
an  aromatic  odor  and  a pungent  bitter  taste ; but  cultivated  it  becomes  conical,  thick, 
fleshy,  red  or  yellow,  and  acquires  an  agreeable  odor  and  a pleasantly  sweet  taste. 

Constituents. — The  fruit  contains  a small  quantity  of  oxygenated  volatile  oil ; 324 
grains  of  it  were  obtained  from  100  pounds  of  the  fruit.  The  root  has  been  analyzed  by 
Vauquelin,  Wackenroder,  and  C.  Schmidt,  who  found  a little  volatile  oil  (0.011  per  cent.), 
uncrystallizable  sugar,  mannit,  starch,  pectin,  albumen,  fixed  oil,  malic  acid,  and  a color- 
ing principle  named  carotin,  which  exists  in  the  root  in  red  crystals,  is  tasteless,  insoluble 


CA  R THA  M US. — CA  R UM. 


415 


in  water,  slightly  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  and  chloroform,  freely  soluble  in  carbon  bisul- 
phide, benzene,  and  the  fixed  and  volatile  oils ; its  formula  is  C18H240  Husemann 
( 1860)  found  it  to  be  accompanied  in  the  root  by  hydrocarotin , C18H30O,  which  is  colorless, 
tasteless,  and  obtained  from  boiling  alcohol  in  silky  crystals. 

Action  and  Uses. — Carrot-fruit  is  diuretic  and  stimulant,  and  has  long  been  used 
for  exciting  the  menstrual  flow,  for  the  cure  of  dropsy , and  for  the  relief  of  strangury. 
Its  medicinal  properties  appear  to  depend  upon  its  volatile  oil.  The  fresh  root,  reduced 
to  a pulp  by  scraping  or  grating,  forms  a clean  and  stimulating  poultice  for  indolent, 
gangrenous,  and  cancerous  ulcers.  The  juice,  used  as  a wash,  is  said  to  relieve  itching  in 
several  diseases  of  the  skin.  The  powdered  fruit  may  be  given  in  the  dose  of  from  Gm. 
2—4  (gr.  xxx-lx).  Gm.  32  (an  ounce)  of  the  bruised  fruit  to  a pint  of  hot  water  forms 
an  infusion  which  may  be  taken  within  twenty-four  hours. 

C ARTH  AMU  S . — Safflower  . 

Flores  carthami. — African  or  dyers  sajfron.  False  ( American ) saffron.  E. ; Carthame , 
Fr.  ; Saflor , G.  ; Cartamo , Azafrancillo,  Alazor , Sp. 

The  florets  of  Carthamus  tinctorius,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Compositae,  Cynareae. 

Origin. — An  annual  plant  which  is  indigenous  to  India  and  extensively  cultivated 
there,  in  Eastern  and  Western  Asia,  Northern  Africa,  and  Southern  and  Central  Europe. 
It  is  about  60  Cm.  (2  feet)  high,  with  sessile  or  clasping  spinulous  leaves,  and  rather  large 
ovate  flower-heads  terminating  the  branches.  The  florets  are  collected  after  the  shedding 
of  the  pollen  and  are  freed  from  the  ovaries. 

Description. — The  florets  of  safflower  are  about  2 Cm.  (£  inch)  long,  tubular,  with 
the  limb  divided  into  five  nearly  linear  lobes ; the  tube  of  the  anthers  is  about  5 31  m.  (4 
inch)  long,  protrudes  from  the  throat,  and  is  surmounted  by  the  long  filiform  yellow  style. 
The  florets  are  at  first  yellow,  but  become  red,  and  after  drying  of  a brown-red  color.  They 
have  a faint,  peculiar,  rather  disagreeable  odor  and  an  insipid  bitterish  taste. 

Constituents. — The  analysis  of  Dufour  and  Salvetat  proved  the  presence  of  the 
usual  constituents  of  plants,  and  in  addition  a yellow  and  a red  coloring  principle,  the 
former  being  exhausted  by  water,  after  which  the  latter  is  obtained  in  solution  by  treat- 
ment with  solution  of  sodium  carbonate  and  precipitated  by  acids.  Schlieper  (1846)  gives 
to  this  carthamin  or  carthamic  acid  the  formula  C14H,607.  The  value  of  safflower  as  a dye- 
stuff depends  upon  the  carthamin,  which  in  the  dry  state  is  red-brown,  has  a green  metal- 
lic lustre,  is  insoluble  in  ether,  but  dissolves  in  alcohol  with  a handsome  purple  color,  the 
solution  becoming  yellow  by  heat.  The  alkaline  solutions  of  carthamin  decompose  and 
decolorize  rapidly. 

Action  and  Uses. — Safflower  passes  for  being  diaphoretic  if  administered  in  a 
warm  infusion  made  with  Gm.  8 (3  ij)  of  the  flowers  and  a pint  of  boiling  water.  It 
may  be  used  to  dissipate  commencing  catarrh  and  muscular  rheumatism , and  to  favor  the 
efflorescence  of  eruptive  fevers.  In  large  doses  it  is  said  to  be  laxative.  Its  action  and 
uses  closely  resemble  those  of  chamomile.  Carmedik,  from  the  Cape  of  Good  Hope,  is 
said  to  be  closely  related  to  Carthamus  tinctorius,  but,  unlike  it,  is  extremely  bitter  as 
well  as  aromatic  and  astringent.  It  is  used  at  the  Cape  as  a stomachic  bitter,  infused  in 
water  or  in  brandy  ( Edinh . Med.  Jour.,  xxviii.  1073). 

CAR/UM,  U.  S. — Caraway. 

Carui  fructus,  Br.  ; Fructus  carvi , P.  G. — Caraway-fruit  (seed),  E.  ; Carvi,  Cumin  des 
pres,  Fr. ; Kiimmel,  G. ; Alcaravca,  Sp. 

The  fruit  of  Carum  Carvi  (Carui),  Linne.  Woodville,  Med.Bot.,  Plate  45;  Bentley 
and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  121. 

Nat.  Ord. — Umbelliferae,  Orthospermae. 

Origin. — A biennial  plant  which  is  indigenous  to  the  Western  Himalayas  and  the 
Caucasus,  and  is  found  throughout  Siberia  and  the  greater  portion  of  Europe,  but  is 
scarce  in  the  southern  part  of  that  continent.  It  is  extensively  cultivated  in  Norway, 
Ilussia,  Germany,  Holland,  England,  Morocco,  and  also  in  the  United  States ; the  yield 
of  fruit  per  acre  is  between  8 and  10  cwt.  The  holiow  cylindrical  stem  is  30  to  90  Cm. 
(1  to  3 feet)  high,  branched ; the  leaves  bi-  and  tri-pinnate,  with  the  ultimate  divisions 
linear;  involucre  filiform  ; involucel  none ; umbels  numerous  ; flowers  small,  white.  The 
fruit  is  oblong,  laterally  compressed,  splits  when  mature  into  the  two  mericarps,  and  finds 
its  way  into  commerce  from  the  countries  named  above.  During  the  fiscal  year  1866-67, 


416 


CARY  OPH  YLL  US. 


216.000  pounds  of  caraway  were  imported  into  the  United  States;  at  present  about 
1,000,000  pounds,  including  coriander,  are  annually  imported. 

Description. — The  half-fruits  are  from  3 to  4 Mm.  (|  to  i inch)  long,  brown  and 
smooth,  somewhat  curved,  slightly  narrowed  at  both  ends,  with  a rounded  stylopod 
above  five  pale-colored  filiform  ridges,  and  between  them  on  the 
back  four  grooves  of  a dark-brown  color,  which  contain  four  large 
oil-tubes,  two  additional  vittae  being  on  the  flat  face.  Mogador 
caraway  corresponds  with  this  description,  except  that  it  is  larger, 
attaining  a length  of  fully  6 Mm.  (i  of  an  inch).  Caraway  has  an 
agreeable  aromatic  odor  and  a sweetish  and  spicy  taste. 

Constituents. — -Besides  volatile  oil  (see  Oleum  Carui), 
TrommsdorfF  found  in  caraway  a green  fixed  oil,  a little  wax, 
resin,  sugar,  mucilage,  and  some  tannin,  the  latter  being  particu- 
larly present  in  the  green  fruit.  The  medicinal  properties  are 
due  to  the  volatile  oil. 

Action  and  Uses. — Anciently,  caraway  was  held  to  be  diuretic  and  carminative. 
It  is  used  at  present  chiefly  to  expel  wind  and  allay  pain  in  the  flatulent  colic  of  infants. 
An  infusion  is  prepared  with  Gm.  4-8  (3j-ij)  of  the  bruised  seeds  and  half  a pint  of 
boiling  water,  of  which  the  dose  is  a teaspoonful  for  infants  and  a tablespoonful  for 
adults. 

CARYOPHYLLUS,  U.  Cloves. 

Caryophyllum,  Br. ; Caryopliylli , P.  G. ; Caryophylli  aromatici. — Giro  fie,  Gerofle , Clous 
aromatiques , Fr.  ; Gewilrznelken , N'dgelein , G. ; Glavos  de  especia,  Sp. ; Garofani , It. 

The  unexpanded  flowers  of  Eugenia  aromatica,  O.  Kuntze,  s.  Eug.  caryophyllata,  Thun - 
berg,  s.  Eug.  aromatica,  Willdenow , s.  Myrtus  Caryophullus,  Sprengel,  s.  Caryophillus 
aromaticus.  Linne.  Bot.  Mag.,  vol.  liv.,  plates  2749,  2750;  Woodville,  Med.  Bot.,  193; 
Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 112. 

Nat.  Ord. — Myrtaceae. 

Origin. — This  handsome  evergreen  tree  is  supposed  to  have  been  indigenous  only  to 
the  five  small  islands  near  the  island  of  Jilolo,  to  which  the  name  of  Molucca  or  Clove 
Islands  was  formerly  exclusively  applied.  The  tree  has  been  entirely  destroyed  there, 
but  it  is  now  cultivated  in  many  of  the  islands  of  the  Indian  Ocean,  in  tropical  Africa, 
Brazil,  and  the  West  Indies.  It  attains  a height  of  9 or  12  M.  (30  or  40  feet),  and  is 
considerably  branched,  the  branches  forming  an  elegant  pyramidal  crown,  and  being  ter- 
minated by  cymes  composed  of  fifteen  to  twenty-five  flowers  producing  berry-like  fruits. 

Collection. — As  soon  as  the  buds  change  in  color  from  green  to  red  they  are  either 
picked  by  hand  or  detached  from  the  trees  by  beating  the  branches  with  long  bamboos, 
the  buds  being  gathered  upon  cloths  spread  beneath  the  trees ; they  are  afterward  dried 
by  exposure  to  the  sun,  whereby  the  color  changes  to  brown.  Between  1,000,000  and 

1.500.000  pounds  of  cloves  are  annually  consumed  in  the  United  States. 

Description. — Cloves  consist  of  a dark-brown,  solid,  nearly  cylindrical  calyx,  some- 
what tapering  below,  and  above  divided  into  four  ovate  lobes ; these  lobes  clasp  the  four 

lighter-colored  arched  and  imbricate  petals,  which  form  a glob- 
ular head  and  cover  the  numerous  bent  stamens.  The  ovary  is 
contained  in  the  upper  part  of  the  adherent  calyx,  is  divided  into 
two  cells,  each  containing  about  twenty  ovules,  and  is  crowned 
by  a quadrangular  disk,  in  the  centre  of  which  the  simple  style 
is  placed.  Cloves  are  \ to  f inch  (12  to  16  Mm.)  long,  and,  as 
obtained  from  different  localities,  vary  somewhat  in  the  shade  of 
their  brown  color ; the  large,  plump,  and  deep-brown  cloves,  as 
obtained  from  the  Moluccas,  Zanzibar,  etc.,  are  preferred,  the 
smaller,  shrivelled,  and  light-colored  varieties,  such  as  are  often 
exported  from  Cayenne  and  the  West  Indies,  being  considered 
inferior.  Cloves  have  a somewhat  fatty  appearance,  a strong 
and  highly  aromatic  odor,  and  a very  pungent,  warm,  and  aro- 
matic taste.  A large  number  of  oil-cells  are  observed  in  the 
petals  and  in  the  outer  tissue  of  the  calyx  ; the  latter  are  placed 
in  two  or  three  irregular  circles  beneath  the  epidermis,  and  yield 
some  of  their  oil  upon  pressure  with  the  finger-nail.  Cloves 
partly  deprived  of  their  volatile  oil  are  said  to  be  occasionally  used  for  adulteration ; they 
are  quite  moist  and  usually  without  heads. 


Fig.  52. 


Clove : a,  natural  size ; b,  lon- 
gitudinal section,  magnified. 


Fig.  51. 


Carum:  fruit  and  longi- 
tudinal section,  3 diam- 
eters ; transverse  sec- 
tion, 8 diameters. 


CASCARILLA. 


417 


Other  Parts. — Clove-stalks  (Griffe  de  girofle  ( Fr .) ; Nelkenstiele,  Nelkenholz  ( G .) ; Festucae 
caryophyllorum,  s.  Fusti)  are  sometimes  met  with,  and  consist  of  the  branching 
flower-stalks,  about  2 Mm.  inch)  in  thickness,  which  are  of  a light-brown  color,  Fig.  53. 

and  have  a distinct  though  not  strong  odor  and  taste  of  cloves ; they  contain  4 to 
5 per  cent,  of  volatile  oil,  and  are  sometimes  employed  for  adulterating  powdered 
cloves  and  sometimes  for  distilling  the  volatile  oil.  The  importation  of  clove- 
stalks  into  this  country  has  increased  from  15,128  pounds  in  1877  to  184,464 
pounds  in  1880. 

Mother  Cloves  (Meres  de  girofle,  Clous  matrices  (Fr.) ; Mutternelken  (G.)  : 

Anthophylli)  are  the  clove-fruits,  generally  collected  before  they  are  quite  ripe  ; 
they  are  about  25  Mm.  (1  inch)  long,  oval,  crowned  with  the  four-lobed  calyx, 
have  one  or  two  seeds  in  each  cell,  and  resemble  cloves  somewhat  in  appearance  Mother  Clove, 
and  properties,  but  are  thicker,  lighter,  and  weaker  in  odor. 


Constituents. — Trommsdorff  found  in  air-dried  cloves  18  per  cent,  of  volatile  oil, 
13  of  tannin  (which  has  not  been  further  investigated),  13  of  gum,  18  of  water,  6 of 
tasteless  resin,  and  4 of  extractive.  Bonastre  (1833)  obtained  from  the  watery  distillate 
eugenin,  in  white  pearly  scales  of  a slight  clove  odor,  having  the  composition  C10H12O2, 
and  which  is  colored  red  by  nitric  acid.  Ostermeyer  isolated  a green  wax,  and  Lodibert 
(1825)  inodorous  and  tasteless  silky  needles,  caryophyllin , of  the  composition  Ci0H16O, 
which  are  deposited  from  the  concentrated  tincture  of  cloves ; they  are  colored  blood-red 
by  cold  sulphuric  acid,  and,  according  to  Mylius  (1873),  yield  with  fuming  nitric  acid 
crystals  of  caryopihillinic  acid , C20H32O6.  (For  the  composition  of  oil  of  cloves  see 
Oleum  Caryophylli.) 

Action  and  Uses. — Cloves  are  general  stimulants.  They  were  formerly  described 
as  emmenagogue  and  aphrodisiac,  and  as  suitable  for  expelling  wind,  allaying  vomiting, 
and  assisting  digestion.  They  continue  to  be  used  for  most  of  these  purposes,  but  less 
as  a medicine  than  as  a condiment  that  promotes  the  digestion  of  fatty  and  crude  food. 
Clove  tea,  made  by  infusing  Gm.  8-12  (gij— iij)  of  bruised  cloves  in  half  a pint  of  boil- 
ing water,  may  be  given  in  tablespoonful  doses  for  the  relief  of  colic.  Powdered  or 
bruised  cloves  wet  with  alcohol  may  be  applied  between  cloths  upon  the  epigastrium  to 
allay  nausea  or  vomiting  and  expel  flatus , and  upon  the  abdomen  to  relieve  colic  ; but  for 
these  purposes  the  aromatic  powder  is  preferable. 


CASCARILLA,  TJ . S,— Cascarilla-bark. 

Cascarillse  cortex , Br. ; Cortex  cascarillse , P.  G. ; Cortex  eluteriae , s.  thuris. — Sweetwood 
bark,  E. ; Cascarille , Ghacrille , JFcorce  eleutherienne , Fr. ; Kaskarillrinde,  G. ; Cascar- 
iUa,  G.,  It.,  Sp. 

The  bark  of  Croton  Eluteria,  Bennett,  s.  Clutia  Eluteria,  Linne.  Jour.  Proc.  Lin.  Soc.  ; 
Pharm.  Jour.,  2d  ser.  vol.  iv.  p.  150;  Woodville,  Med.  Bot.,  223;  Bentley  and  Trimen, 
Med,  Plants,  238. 

Nat.  Ord. — Euphorbiacese. 

Origin. — This  plant  is  a low  or  even  a tree-like  shrub  with  alternate,  ovate-lanceolate, 
on  the  lower  surface  bronzed-silvery,  leaves,  and  producing  small  white,  monoecious, 
highly-odorous  flowers  in  terminal  and  axillary  spikes.  The  fruit  is  globular-ovate,  scaly, 
silvery-gray,  three-furrowed  and  three-celled,  each  cell  containing  a glossy  orange-brown 
seed.  The  plant  is  indigenous  to  the  Bahama  Islands,  where  also  Croton  Cascarilla,  Ben- 
nett (s.  Clutia  Cascarilla,  Linne),  and  some  other  species  of  the  same  genus  are  met  with, 
the  barks  of  which  may  possibly  sometimes  be  collected  and  sold  as  cascarilla.  It  is 
shipped  in  bags  from  Nassau,  Bahamas,  and  has  been  known  in  Europe  since  the  latter 
part  of  the  seventeenth  century. 

Description. — It  is  in  quills  or  channeled  pieces  25  to  75  Mm.  (1  to  3 inches)  in 
length,  about  12  Mm.  (?  inch)  in  diameter,  and  about  2 Mm.  (y1^  inch)  thick,  mostly, 
however,  in  small  fragments.  It  is  covered  with  a thin, 
grayish,  easily-detached  corky  layer,  upon  which  are  Fig.  54. 

smaller  or  larger  white  patches  of  a minute  lichen  (Ver-  -iwr ^ 
rucaria  albissima,  Acharius),  the  perithecia  of  which  N'r*;'  _ T "7 

appear  as  black  dots  ; the  external  layer,  particularly  of  §T?  ; V ■« 
the  older  barks,  is  longitudinally  and  transversely  fis-  § 

sured,  presenting  rectangular  spaces  with  elevated  edges,  SBfc-  iBBBBISH 

Or  is  partly  wanting.  The  inner  bark  is  somewhat  Cascarilla-bark : transverse  section,  mag- 
thicker,  and  has  a brownish  color  and  a smooth,  brown-  mfied. 

gray,  inner  surface.  The  bark  breaks  with  a short  somewhat  resinous  or  horny  fracture, 
27 


418 


CASSIA  FISTULA. 


exhibiting  in  the  outer  layer  some  scattered  oil-  or  resin-cells,  and  presenting  a radially 
striate  bast-layer  in  which  but  very  few  true  bast-fibres  are  observed.  It  is  rather  fra- 
grant when  examined  in  bulk,  but  emits  a strongly  aromatic  somewhat  musk-like  odor 
when  burned ; its  taste  is  warm,  aromatic,  and  very  bitter. 

Constituents. — Trommsdorff  obtained  from  cascarilla  1.6  per  cent,  of  volatile  oil, 
15.1  per  cent,  of  resin,  besides  gum,  potassium  chloride,  etc.  The  volatile  oil  consists  of 
a hydrocarbon,  C19H1B  (Gladstone,  1872),  and  of  an  oxygenated  portion.  The  resin  is 
partly  soluble  in  alkalies.  Duval  (1845),  who  isolated  the  bitter  principle,  cascarillin , in 
a crystalline  state,  announced  also  the  presence  of  a little  tannin,  pectin,  wax,  fat,  starch, 
and  albumen.  Cascarillin  is  obtained  by  concentrating  the  filtrate  from  the  precipitate 
which  is  produced  in  an  infusion  by  sugar  of  lead ; it  forms  colorless  needles  or  scales,  is 
inodorous,  bitter,  fusible  at  205°  C.  (401°  F.),  not  precipitated  by  lead  salts  or  tannin, 
freely  soluble  in  ether  and  hot  alcohol,  sparingly  soluble  in  cold  alcohol  and  chloroform, 
and  very  sparingly  in  water  ; nitric  acid  converts  it  into  a yellow  resinous  mass  ; sulphuric 
acid  gives  a red  solution,  from  which  water  precipitates  green  floccules.  C.  and  E. 
Mylius  observed  it  (1873)  in  an  extract  separated  in  granules,  and  give  its  composition  as 

CI2II,A- 

Allied  Barks. — Malambo-bark  is  obtained  in  Venezuela  from  Croton  Malambo,  Karsten.  It 
is  in  quills  12  to  25  Mm.  (1  to  1 inch)  in  diameter  and  15  to  20  Cm.  (6  to  8 inches)  long.  It  has 
a thin,  soft,  whitish,  longitudinally-fissured  cork,  which  is  easily  removed,  exhibiting  a brown 
surface  with  fine  transverse  furrows ; the  inner  surface  is  gray-brown,  finely  striate,  the  fracture 
short-splintery,  the  odor  aromatic,  and  the  taste  unpleasantly  aromatic  and  bitter,  resembling 
that  of  cascarilla. 

Copalchi-bark  is  obtained  from  Croton  Pseudochina,  Schlechtendal  (C.  niveus,  Jacquin),  indig- 
enous to  Mexico.  It  resembles  the  preceding,  is  about  5 Mm.  (4  inch)  thick,  hard  and  dense, 
has  a grayish  or  yellowish  corky  layer,  and  beneath  this  is  transversely  fissured ; the  bast  is 
reddish-brown,  is  coarsely  striate  in  a radial  direction,  and  breaks  with  a short,  irregular  fracture. 

Barks  differing  considerably  from  those  described,  which  are  occasionally  found  in  commerce 
as  malambo-  and  copalchi-bark,  are  obtained  from  different  plants.  The  composition  of  both 
barks  is  probably  similar  to  that  of  cascarilla.  Holmes  (1874)  described  a bark  which  was 
probably  derived  from  Croton  lucidus,  Linnt,  and  was  found  as  an  admixture  in  cascarilla  ; it  had  a 
fawn-colored,  firmly-adhering  corky  layer,  was  reddish  and  closely  ridged  upon  the  inner  surface, 
had  an  astringent,  slightly  bitter  taste,  and  yields  a darker-colored  tincture  and  infusion  than 
cascarilla. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparations. — Extractum  cascarilla,  P.  G.  The  coarsely- 
powdered  bark  is  exhausted  by  digestion  with  hot  water  and  the  infusion  evaporated. 
When  prescribed  in  mixtures,  Mylius  recommends  the  extract  to  be  dissolved  in  a little 
hot  alcohol  and  the  solution  to  be  added  to  the  watery  liquid,  whereby  the  cascarillin 
becomes  finely  divided  and  remains  in  suspension. 

Action  and  Uses. — Cascarilla  is  stimulant  rather  than  tonie,  and  its  fumes  when 
inhaled  are  intoxicating.  The  infusion  occasions  a sense  of  warmth  in  the  stomach,  but 
in  excessive  doses  nauseates  and  purges.  Cascarilla  was  originally  used  to  enhance  the 
febrifuge  power  of  cinchona,  and  independently  in  the  typhoid  state  of  various  diseases, 
especially  epidemic  dysentery.  It  is  now  chiefly  employed  in  the  treatment  of  dyspeptic 
conditions  due  to  gastric  or  intestinal  atony  and  attended  with  flatulence  or  vomiting. 
The  dose  in  powder  is  about  Gm.  2 (gr.  xxx).  The  infusion,  made  with  an  ounce  of 
cascarilla  to  a pint  of  water,  is  preferable.  It  may  be  given  in  wineglassful  doses. 

Malambo-bark,  says  Strumpf,  resembles  Winter’s  bark  in  its  action.  In  its  native 
country  it  is  used  in  atonic  dyspepsia  and  in  dysentery.  The  natives  of  Brazil  have  a 
superstition  that  the  tapir  cures  itself  of  diarrhoea  by  eating  this  bark.  It  is  also  used 
by  these  people  in  asthma,  spasms,  and  rheumatism,  intermittent  and  yellow  fevers, 
trismus  nascentium,  and  worms.  Copalchi-bark , according  to  the  same  authority,  is 
employed  as  an  antiperiodic-fever  remedy,  and  tends  to  confine  the  bowels  as  well  as  to 
oppress  the  stomach.  It  is  said  to  partake  of  the  qualities  of  quassia,  valerian,  and 
menyanthis. 


CASSIA  FISTULA,  U.  S.— Purging  Cassia. 

Fructus  cassise  Jistulse. — Casse  officinale,  Casse  en  batons , Fr. ; Purgiercassie , Fistelkassie , 
Rohrencassie,  G. ; Cassia , It. ; Cana  fistula , Sp. 

The  fruit  of  Cassia  Fistula,  Linnt,  s.  Cathartocarpus  (Bactyrilobium,  Willdenow ) Fis- 
tula, Persoon.  Woodv.  t.  260  ; Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  87. 

Nat.  Ord. — Leguminosse,  Csesalpineae. 


CASSIA  FISTULA. 


419 


Origin. — A tree  9 to  15  M.  (30  to  50  feet)  high,  with  large  pinnate  leaves  appearing 
simultaneously  with  the  long  pendulous  racemes  of  fragrant,  golden-yellow,  dark-veined 
flowers.  Indigenous  to  the  East  Indies,  it  is  now  met  with,  spontaneously  and  under 
cultivation,  in  Egypt  and  other  parts  of  Africa,  the  West  Indies,  and  Brazil. 

Description. — The  fruit  is  an  indehiscent,  nearly  cylindrical,  woody  legume,  45  to 
60  Cm.  (1?  to  2 feet)  long  and  nearly  25  Mm.  (an  inch)  thick,  blackish-brown,  with  fine 
transverse  veins  and  two  bands  running  from  the  short  thick  stalk  to  the  blunt  apex. 
These  bands  are  3 to  4 Mm.  (i  to  ^ inch)  broad,  somewhat  paler  in  color,  smooth,  and 
correspond  to  the  dorsal  and  ventral  sutures,  the  former  being  marked  by  a fine  ridge,  the 
latter  by  a shallow  groove  in  the  centre  of  the  bands.  The  seeds  are  numerous,  8 to  10 
Mm.  (i  to  | inch)  long,  flattish,  ovate  or  oval,  orange-brown,  glossy, 
with  a long  filiform  funiculus,  a firm  albumen,  and  fleshy-veined 
cotyledons ; each  seed  is  imbedded  in  a blackish-brown  sweet  pulp, 
and  separately  enclosed  in  a cell,  the  thin  woody  dissepiments 
being  formed  by  the  transverse  distension  of  the  placenta  after 
fructification.  The  odor  suggests  that  of  prunes. 

Other  Varieties. — A lighter-colored  purging  cassia  is  occasionally 
met  with,  which  is  from  30  to  45  or  50  Cm.  (12  to  18  or  20  inches) 
long,  about  12  Mm.  (J  inch)  in  diameter,  slightly  pointed,  and  has  a 
reddish-brown  sweet  and  somewhat  astringent  pulp,  but  otherwise  re- 
sembles the  official  drug.  It  is  usually  referred  to  Cassia  bacillaris, 

LinnS  Jilius  (Cathartocarpus  bacillus,  Persoon ),  a tree  indigenous  to 
Surinam  : but  Hanbury’s  investigations  (1863)  render  it  certain  that  it 
is  partly  if  not  wholly  obtained  from  Cassia  moschata,  Kunth  (Cathar- 
tocarpus moschatus,  Don ),  a tree  found  in  Panama  and  the  northern 
part  of  South  America. 

Cassia  brasiliana,  Lamarck  (C.  mollis,  Vahl , C.  grandis,  Linne  Jilius , 

Cathartocarpus,  Persoon ),  yields  a large  purging  cassia,  sometimes  known 
as  horse  cassia , which  is  60  Cm.  (2  feet)  and  more  long,  often  curved, 
laterally  compressed  38  Mm.  (1£  inches)  broad,  rather  coarsely  veined, 
and  has  the  dorsal  suture  indicated  by  one  convex  band  and  the  ventral 
suture  by  two  prominent  obtuse  ridges. 

Constituents. — Purging  cassia,  treated  with  water,  should  yield  about  30  per  cent, 
of  pulp,  which,  according  to  the  analyses  by  Vauquelin  and  Henry,  consists  principally 
of  sugar  (about  60  per  cent.),  with  some  mucilage,  pectin,  salts,  etc.  In  view  of  this 
composition  it  is  difficult  to  understand  why  the  drug  should  be  unfit  for  medicinal  use 
when  the  pulp  has  become  dry  and  the  seeds  remain  loose  in  their  cells ; it  would  seem, 
however,  to  be  not  indispensable. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparations. — Cassia  pulpa,  Br. — Cassia-pulp,  E. ; Pulpe 
de  casse,  Casse  monde,  Fr. ; Cassienmus,  G. — It  is  extracted  from  the  fruit  by  diffusing 
the  pulp  in  water,  straining,  and  evaporating.  Cassia-pulp  of  British  commerce,  which 
has  been  imported  from  the  East  Indies,  usually  contains  the  seeds  and  dissepiments,  and 
requires  to  be  purified  by  softening  with  water  and  straining.  It  is  blackish-brown,  vis- 
cid, sweet,  and  of  a somewhat  sickly  odor. 

Confection  of  cassia,  made  by  mixing  cassia-pulp  100  Gm.,  syrup  of  violets  75  Gm., 
and  sugar  20  Gm.,  evaporating  to  the  consistence  of  a soft  extract,  and  flavoring  with  a 
drop  of  oil  of  neroli,  is  known  in  France  as  Casse  cuite. 

Allied  Drug. — Fructus  ceratonice , Siliqua  dulcis. — St.John’s  bread,  E. ; Carouge,  Caroube, 
Fr.  Cod.;  Johannisbrot,  Karobe,  G. ; Algarroba  de  Valencia,  Garrobo,  Sp. — Ceratonia  siliqua, 
Linnt,  is  a medium-sized  evergreen  tree,  grows  in  the  basin  of  the  Mediterranean,  and  bears 
purple-colored  racemes  of  polygamous  apetalous  flowers.  The  fruit  is  10  to  20  Cm.  (4  to  8 
inches)  long,  nearly  25  Mm.  (1  inch)  broad,  about  3 or  4 Mm.  (£  or  4 inch)  thick,  obtuse,  linear, 
much  flattened,  and  with  somewhat  elevated  edges,  causing  the  transverse  section  to  be  nar- 
rowly and  obtusely  rectangular.  The  epicarp  is  leathery,  brown,  glossy,  finely  striate,  and 
encloses  a light-brown  softer  sarcocarp  of  a pleasantly  sweet  taste.  The  seeds,  six  to  twelve  in 
number,  are  flattish  ovate  and  polished  brown,  and  are  contained  in  separate  transverse  cells 
formed  by  the  papery  inner  layer  of  the  pericarp.  The  fruit  contains  40  to  50  per  cent,  of  cane- 
and  grape-sugar,  besides  mucilage,  protein  compounds,  a little  tannin,  and  butyric  acid,  to 
which  the  odor  is  due.  The  presence  of  free  butyric  acid  was  observed  by  Redtenbacher  (1846). 
St.  John’s  bread  is  frequently  used  in  Southern  Europe  as  an  addition  to  expectorant  and 
demulcent  medicines. 

Action  and  Uses. — Anciently  used  as  a laxative  to  which  special  cooling  virtues 
were  attributed,  and  as  a cleansing  gargle  for  ulcerated  sore  throat,  purging  cassia  is  still 
esteemed  as  a mild  and  certain  laxative , tending  to  promote  the  secretion  of  bile.  It 


420 


CASTANEA. 


p;ives  a brownish  or  greenish  tint  to  the  urine.  It  is  seldom  used  alone,  owing  partly  to 
its  tendency  to  occasion  colic  and  flatulence.  With  manna  it  forms  an  active  but  mild 
laxative,  and  in  hot  climates  and  seasons  it  is  usefully  associated  with  tamarinds  or  with 
mild  salines,  especially  in  the  treatment  of  boivel  complaints.  As  a laxative  the  dose  is 
from  Gm.  4-8  (^j-ij)  ; as  a purgative,  Gm.  30-60  (|j-ij).  The  sweet  and  acidulous 
pulp  of  the  seeds  of  Ceratonia  siliqua  is  used  as  a laxative  in  bronchitis  and  in  the  gas- 
tric and  biliary  derangements  that  are  common  in  the  south  of  Europe. 

CASTANEA,  77.  S. — Chestnut. 

Folia  castanese. — Feuilles  de  chataignier , Feuilles  de  marronier,  Fr. ; Kastanienblatter , 
G. ; Castano,  Sp. 

The  leaves  of  Castanea  dentata  (Marshall),  Ludworth , s.  C.  vesca,  Gaertner , (C.  vul- 
garis, Lamarck , C.  sativa,  Miller , Fagus  Castanea,  Linne ),  collected  in  September  or 
October  while  still  green. 

Nat.  Ord. — Cupuliferae. 

Origin. — A stately  tree  24  to  30  M.  (80  to  100  feet)  high,  indigenous  to  Western 
Asia,  Southern  Europe,  and  to  the  United  States  from  Maine  to  Michigan  southward. 
The  wood,  though  light,  is  very  durable.  The  whitish  staminate  flowers,  which  appear 
in  May  and  June,  form  slender,  pendulous  aments  15  to  20  Cm.  (6  to  8 inches)  long ; the 
pistillate  flowers  form  clusters  of  three  or  four  in  an  ovoid  involucre,  which  finally 
becomes  globose  and  covered  with  sharp  prickles,  and  encloses  two  or  three  one-seeded 
nuts.  These  chestnuts  (chataignes,  F. ; Kastanien,  Maronen,  G. ; castanas,  Sp.),  are 
flattish-hemispherical  or  somewhat  triangular,  brown,  glossy,  silky-pubescent  at  one  end, 
and  contain  a firm  white  embryo  having  a sweet  taste.  American  chestnuts  are  smaller 
and  sweeter  than  those  of  Southern  Europe. 

Description. — The  leaves  are  from  15  to  25  Cm.  (6  to  10  inches)  long,  about  5 
Cm.  (2  inches)  wide,  upon  petioles  less  than  25  Mm.  (1  inch)  in  length,  oblong-lance- 
olate, acuminate,  mucronate,  sinuate-serrate,  smooth  throughout,  shining  above,  neatly 
feather-veined  beneath.  The  leaves  of  the  American  chestnut  (Cast,  americana,  Rafin- 
esque ) differ  from  those  of  the  Oriental  only  in  being  rather  acute  at  the  base.  They  are 
nearly  inodorous  and  have  a somewhat  astringent  taste.  They  should  be  collected  in  the 
fall,  in  September  or  October,  while  still  green ; on  drying  they  lose  from  50  to  60  per 
cent,  in  weight. 

Constituents. — Chestnut-leaves,  examined  by  J.  B.  Turner  (1879)  and  L.  J.  Stelt- 
zer  (1880),  were  found  to  have  the  ordinary  constituents  of  leaves — chlorophyll,  fat,  a 
little  resin,  gum,  albumen,  and  extractive ; the  tannin,  which  gives  a green-black  precip- 
itate with  iron,  was  estimated  at  9 per  cent,  by  weighing  the  gelatin  precipitate.  The 
ash  amounts  to  5 or  6 per  cent.,  and  consists  of  carbonate,  phosphate,  and  chloride  of 
potassium,  magnesium,  calcium,  and  iron.  The  fruit  contains  nearly  50  per  cent,  of 
water,  the  remainder  being  starch  30  to  40,  proteids  3 to  4,  fat  about  2,  sugar  i to  1 or 
2 per  cent.,  some  mucilaginous  matter  and  organic  acids,  and  in  the  integuments  resin, 
tannin,  and  bitter  principle. 

Allied  Plant. — Castanea  (Fagus,  Linne ) pumila,  Michaux , is  indigenous  to  the  United  States, 
from  Southern  Pennsylvania  and  Ohio  to  Florida  and  Eastern  Texas.  It  is  shrubby,  or  in  the 
Southern  States  a tree  12  or  15  M.  (40  or  50  feet)  high.  The  leaves  are  oblong  or  somewhat 
obovate,  acute,  pointedly  serrate,  and  white-downy  beneath.  The  prickly  involucre  contains  a 
single  ovoid,  acute,  and  dark-brown  nut,  called  chinquapin , which  is  smaller  than  the  chestnut 
and  very  sweet.  The  bark,  like  that  of  the  chestnut,  is  astringent. 

Action  and  Uses. — Judging  from  its  apparent  action  in  whooping  cough , its  seda- 
tive influence  upon  the  respiratory  nerves  may  be  inferred.  In  the  disease  just  men- 
tioned it  appears  to  control  the  paroxysms  in  a remarkable  manner,  in  some  cases  sus- 
pending them  entirely  after  the  lapse  of  a few  days.  It  may  be  given  without  limit  in 
the  form  of  an  infusion  made  with  Gm.  30  (,^j)  of  the  dried  leaves  in  a pint  of  boiling 
water,  or,  more  accurately,  in  the  dose  of  from  Gm.  2-4  (f^ss-j)  of  the  fluid  extract 
every  three  or  four  hours.  Its  taste  is  not  unpleasant,  and  its  administration  requires  no 
special  circumspection. 


CASTOREUM. 


421 


Castor  Fiber,  Linne : b,  scales  of  the  tail. 


CASTOREUM.— Castor. 

Castoreum , Fr. ; Bibergeil , G. ; Castor eo , It.,  Sp. 

The  dried  preputial  follicles  and  their  secretion  obtained  from  the  beaver,  Castor  Fiber, 
Linne  (Castor  americanus,  Cuvier , s.  C.  canadensis,  Kuhl ),  and  separated  from  the  some- 
what shorter  and  smaller  oil-sacs  which  are  frequently  attached  to  them. 

Class  Mammalia.  Order  Rodentia. 

Origin. — This  animal  inhabits  the  continents  of  the  northern  hemisphere  between  33° 
and  68°  N.  lat.,  but  is  disappearing  in  the  southern  parts  of  those  regions.  It  is  from  GO 
to  75  Cm.  (2  to  2J  feet)  long,  with  horizontally- 
flattened  tail,  which  is  about  25  Cm.  (10  inches) 
long  and  7 to  10  Cm.  (3  to  4 inches)  wide,  hairy 
at  the  base  and  scaly  above.  The  head  resembles 
that  of  a rat,  with  no  canine  teeth,  but  with  two 
incisors,  and  on  each  side  four  molars  in  the  upper 
and  lower  jaw.  The  fur  consists  of  two  kinds  of 
hair — one  rather  bristly,  the  other  denser  and 
downy  ; its  color  is  brown,  but  black,  white,  and 
spotted  beavers  are  also  met  with.  The  feet  have 
five  toes,  the  anterior  being  short  and  close,  the 
posterior  longer  and  palmated ; the  hind  feet  are 
webbed  close  to  the  toes.  Anus,  genitals,  and  fol- 
licles communicate  in  both  sexes  with  one  canal  or 
cavity  located  near  the  tail.  In  the  male  a pair  of  oil-sacs,  containing  the  formerly  offici- 
nal axungia  castoris , terminates  in  the  cloaca ; the  castor-sacs,  located  near  the  former, 
open  by  a common  aperture  in  the  preputial  canal.  The  female  has  the  castor-sacs 
below  the  os  pubis  on  each  side  of  the  vagina.  The  European  and  Siberian  beaver 
closely  resembles  the  American  in  appearance  and  habits,  but  is  somewhat  larger  and  has 
a paler-colored  fur. 

The  beaver  feeds  on  roots  and  barks,  and  builds  houses  about  3 M.  (10  feet)  wide  and 
1.8  M.  (6  feet)  high,  the  entrance  being  under  the  water,  the  depth  of  which  is  increased 
by  the  building  of  dams  composed  of  billets  of  wood  and  earth ; in  more  densely-pop- 
ulated districts,  where  they  are  disturbed,  the  beavers  burrow  on  the  banks  of  rivers  and 
creeks. 

Description. — When  fresh,  castor-sacs  are  flesh-colored,  soft,  more  or  less  pyriform ; 
they  are  dried  by  being  suspended  over  fire,  when  they  become  brown.  They  consist  of 
four  distinct  coats : the  outer  one  is  cellular,  resembles  hog’s  bladder  in  texture,  and 
encloses  a fibrous  layer,  which  is  followed  by  a vascular,  and  this  by  an  iridescent  gland- 
ular coat,  with  many  folds  and  numerous  semilunar  scales  upon  the  inner  surface,  the 
whole  being  covered  by  a thin  epithelium.  According  to  E.  H.  Weber  (1849),  castor  is 
mainly  secreted  by  the  prepuce  of  the  penis  and  clitoris,  but  J.  Fuchs  (1881)  states  that 
it  is  altogether  separated  from  glands  contained  in  the  inner  coat  of  the  sac.  The  con- 
tents of  the  recent  follicles  are  an  unctuous,  yellowish,  odorous  mass,  which,  after  drying, 
becomes  brown  and  friable,  but  is  not  fusible.  Castor  is  commercially  distinguished  by 
the  countries  from  which  it  is  obtained,  the  most  highly  valued  being  obtained  from  Rus- 
sia and  Siberia. 

Castoreum  sibiricum,  s.  Castoreum  moscoviticum,  rossicum,  germanicum,  europasum. 
The  sacs  are  oval  or  globular  pyriform,  united  at  the  narrowed  end  in  pairs,  the  con- 
tents of  a dull  rather  light-brown  color  and  a strong  peculiar  odor.  The  sacs  vary  in 
weight  from  about  3 to  8,  or  occasionally  even  14,  ounces,  and  if  not  too  dry  the  two 
outer  coats  may  be  readily  separated.  This  kind  is  mostly  collected  in  Siberia  and  East- 
ern Russia,  the  sacs  from  Western  Russia  and  Germany  being  usually  smaller  and  rarer. 
It  is  now  rarely  met  with  in  commerce. 

Castoreum  canadense,  s.  castoreum  americanum,  anglicum.  This  is  the  variety 
generally  met  with  in  commerce.  The  sacs  are  more  elongated,  flatter,  and  usually  more 
wrinkled  and  folded,  than  those  of  the  preceding ; they  vary  from  club-shaped  to  narrow 
pyriform,  are  united  in  pairs,  mostly  between  1 and  4 ounces  (rarely  8 ounces)  each  in 
weight ; the  outer  coats  adhere  pretty  firmly  ; the  contents  are  often  slightly  glossy ; the 
odor  is  aromatic,  but  weaker  than  the  preceding ; the  taste  about  the  same,  pungent, 
bitter,  and  rather  nauseous. 

Russian  and  American  castor  are  distinguished  from  each  other  by  the  characters  indi- 
cated ; the  former  yields  60  to  68  per  cent,  of  its  weight  to  alcohol,  the  latter  between 


422 


CAT  ALP  A. 


45  and  50  per  cent.  The  tincture  of  the  former  yields  with  much  water  a milky  mix- 
ture, which  becomes  nearly  clear  on  the  addition  of  ammonia.  The  mixture  obtained 
from  the  tincture  of  American  castor  is  brownish,  the  precipitate  being  only  partly  solu- 
ble in  ammonia. 

Adulterations. — Castor  is  said  to  be  occasionally  adulterated  with  artificial  mix- 
tures of  blood  and  earthy  and  resinous  matters  enclosed  in  some  animal  tissue ; such  sub- 
stitution is  easily  detected  by  the  absence  of  nearly  all  the  characters  described  above. 

Constituents. — The  numerous  older  investigations  have  not  thrown  much  light 
upon  the  composition  of  castor.  The  volatile  oil  of  castor,  present  to  the  extent  of  1 to 
2 per  cent.,  has  the  odor  of  that  substance,  and  is  of  a pale-yellow  color;  according  to 
Woehler  (1844),  it  contains  carbolic  acid.  The  same  chemist  noticed  also  (1848)  the 
presence  of  salicin  and  benzoic  acid.  Pereira  (1851)  believes  the  volatile  oil  to  be  mainly 
derived  from  the  salicin,  and  observed  that  distilled  castor-water  gradually  acquired  the 
odor  of  salicyl-aldehyde  (oil  of  Spiraea  ulmaria).  The  bitter  and  acrid  taste  of  castor  is 
due  to  a dark-brown  resinous  substance  which  is  insoluble  in  water  and  ether,  but  readily 
soluble  in  alcohol ; it  has  not  been  further  investigated.  A peculiar  crystalline  body, 
castor  in,  was  obtained  by  Bizio  on  cooling  the  strong  alcoholic  decoction.  Valenciennes 
(1861)  prepared  it  by  boiling  castor  with  milk  of  lime  and  treating  the  dried  precipitate 
with  hot  alcohol ; it  forms  colorless,  readily  fusible  needles  having  a slight  odor  of  castor 
and  little  taste  ; it  volatilizes  slowly  with  boiling  water,  is  soluble  in  concentrated  potassa, 
ether,  benzin,  and  hot  olive  oil  and  oil  of  turpentine.  Lehmann  believes  that  the  car- 
bolic acid,  if  present,  is  obtained  only  from  the  smoke  of  the  fire  by  which  castor  is 
dried  ; he  found  also  derivatives  of  bile , chlolesterin , and  & protein  compound , the  last  two 
of  which  had  already  been  obtained  by  Brandes.  The  inorganic  constituents  are  carbo- 
nates, with  some  phosphates  and  sulphates  of  calcium,  magnesium,  potassium,  and  ammo- 
nium. Pereira  obtained  from  Canadian  castor  3.6  per  cent,  of  ash.  Castor-sacs  contain- 
ing a large  proportion  of  calcium  carbonate  have  been  sometimes  met  with,  and  are  said 
to  be  obtained  from  diseased  animals. 

Action  and  Uses. — It  seems  doubtful  whether  castor,  any  more  than  musk,  has  a 
definite  action  upon  the  healthy  nervous  system,  but  both  are  certainly  stimulants  of  the 
nervous  system  disordered  through  exhaustion,  direct  or  indirect.  Hysterical  spasms , 
those  associated  with  uterine  colic , scanty  menstruation , and  tympanites , and  the  muscular 
twitchings,  tremblings,  etc.  which  occur  in  the  typhoid  state , are  palliated  by  this  medi- 
cine. But  for  all  purposes  it  is  less  efficient  than  musk,  and  scarcely  superior  to  valerian, 
camphor,  ammonia,  ether,  and  some  forms  of  alcohol.  The  dose  of  castor  varies  from 
Gm.  0.60  (gr.  x)  to  ten  times  that  amount,  according  to  the  strength  of  the  preparation 
employed.  The  variable  quality  of  the  drug  restricts  its  use. 

CATALPA. — Bean  Tree. 

Catalpa , Fr.,  Gr.,  Sp. 

Catalpa  bignonioides,  Walter , s.  Bignonia  Catalpa,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Bignoniacese. 

Description. — The  tree  is  indigenous  to  the  southern  portion  of  the  United  States 
from  Georgia  and  Florida  westward,  and  is  cultivated  or  wild  farther  north.  It  attains 
a height  of  9 to  15  M.  (30  to  50  feet),  produces  a light,  close-grained,  and  very  durable 
wood,  and  has  spreading  branches,  large  heart-shaped  leaves,  and  compound  racemes  of 
showy  flowers,  which  have  the  calyx  two-lipped,  the  corolla  bell-shaped,  white,  and  in 
the  throat  dotted  with  purple  and  yellow.  The  fruit  is  capsular,  nearly  cylindrical, 
about  30  Cm.  (12  inches)  long,  longitudinally  striate  and  two-celled,  and  contains  numer- 
ous very  thin,  long,  and  flat  seeds  which  are  enclosed  in  a delicate  silky  envelope,  pro- 
longed at  both  ends  into  finely-fringed  wings.  The  bark,  fruit,  and  seeds  have  been 
employed.  The  bark  is  externally  gray-brown,  smooth,  somewhat  glossy,  with  numerous 
small  circular  warts  ; in  the  middle  layer  green,  and  in  the  thick,  tangentially  arranged 
bast-layer  white,  becoming  yellowish  on  drying ; the  inner  surface  is  smooth.  The  bark 
of  the  trunk  is  about  6 Mm  (1  inch)  thick,  one-half  consisting  of  the  scaly  cork,  the 
other  half  of  the  bast-layer.  It  has  a strongly  bitter  taste.  The  catalpa  of  the  Western 
States  is  regarded  as  a distinct  species,  Catalpa  speciosa,  Warder  ; it  is  found  in  South- 
ern Indiana  and  Western  Kentucky,  westward  and  south-westward,  and  has  a rather 
heavier  but  equally  durable  wood. 

Constituents. — The  bark  was  analyzed  by  E.  A.  Bau  (1870),  who  ascertained  the 
presence  of  tannin  in  it.  On  dissolving  the  ethereal  extract  of  the  alcoholic  extract  in 


CA  TA PLASMA  TA .—CA  TA PLASMA  FERMENTI. 


423 


diluted  alcohol,  and  boiling  with  lead  oxide,  the  liquid  retained  an  amorphous  bitter 
principle  in  solution,  and  hot  alcohol  dissolved  from  the  lead  precipitate  a principle  having 
an  intensely  nauseous,  bitter  taste,  and  crystallizing  in  micaceous  scales,  which  were  very 
soluble  in  ether,  chloroform,  and  hot  alcohol.  Sugar  and  tasteless  resin  were  also  found. 

The  seeds  were  examined  by  F.  K.  Brown  (1887),  and  yielded,  besides  tannin,  fixed 
oil,  resin,  and  sugar,  two  crystalline  bodies.  These  latter  were  obtained  by  extracting 
the  seeds  with  a mixture  of  ether,  alcohol,  and  ammonia. 

Allied  Plants. — Bignonia  capreolata,  Linn6 , a native  of  the  Southern  United  States,  is  a 
tall,  climbing  shrub,  with  orange-colored,  bell-shaped,  and  somewhat  two-lipped  flowers,  which 
are  about  5 Cm.  (2  inches)  long.  The  root  and  stem  have  been  used  in  place  of  sarsaparilla.  A 
transverse  section  of  the  stem  shows  the  wood  in  the  shape  of  a cross.  This  plant,  like  the  closely- 
allied  Tecoma  radicans,  Jussieu , which  bears  large  scarlet  flowers,  is  known  as  trumpet  creeper. 

Several  East  Indian  species  of  Bignonia  are  medicinally  employed  in  their  native  country. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  is  rather  an  ornamental  tree  than  one  useful  in  medicine. 
The  bark,  indeed,  is  said  to  be  vermifuge,  the  wood  emetic,  and  the  leaves  emollient  and 
anodyne,  yet  the  emanations  of  the  tree  are  reported  to  be  poisonous.  A decoction  of 
the  pods,  and  the  dried  seeds  also,  have  been  used  with  alleged  advantage  in  chronic 
bronchitis  and  in  nervous  asthma , especially  when  associated  with  senega  ; of  which  latter 
statement  there  need  be  no  serious  doubt.  The  juice  of  the  root  is  also  stated  to  be  an 
efficient  local  remedy  for  chronic  scrofulous  ophthalmia. 

“ The  root  and  vine  of  Bignonia  capreolata  in  infusion  or  decoction  answer  the  purpose 
of  sarsaparilla.  They  are  detergent  and  alterative,  diuretic  and  sudorific,  used  in  syphilis, 
chronic  rheumatism,  and  in  derangements  arising  from  impurities  of  the  blood”  (Porcher, 
Resources  of  the  Southern  Fields  and  Forests ).  Catalpa  speciosa  has  been  alleged  to  exert 
a sedative  action  on  the  heart,  slowing  the  pulse  and  weakening  it  (Med.  News,  lvi.  624), 
but  the  evidence  in  favor  of  this  statement  is  inadequate. 


CATAPLASMATA. — Cataplasms. 

Poultices,  E. ; Cataplasmes , Fr.  ; Umschldge , Breiumschldge , G. 

These  are  topical  applications,  of  a soft,  pasty  consistence  which  are  prepared  from 
coarse  or  fine  powders,  mixed  with  water,  various  solutions,  or  fixed  oils.  In  this  country 
the  ingredients  are  usually  furnished  by  the  pharmacist,  but  the  poultice  is  prepared  for 
use  at  the  patient’s  house. 

CATAPLASMA  CARBONIS,  Br.—  Charcoal  Poultice. 

Cataplasme  au  charbon,  Fr. ; Kohlenumschlag , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Wood  Charcoal  in  powder  1 ounce ; Crumb  of  Bread  2 
ounces;  Linseed  Meal  1£  ounces;  Boiling  Water  10  fluidounces.  Macerate  the  bread 
in  the  water  for  10  minutes  near  the  fire,  then  mix,  and  add  the  linseed  meal  gradually, 
stirring  the  ingredients,  that  a soft  poultice  may  be  formed.  Mix  with  this  half  the 
eharcoal,  and  sprinkle  the  remainder  on  the  surface  of  the  poultice. — Br. 

Medical  Uses. — Charcoal  poultice  is  used  as  an  emollient  and  disinfecting  applica- 
tion to  gangrenous  and  fetid  sores. 

CATAPLASMA  CONII,  Br.— Hemlock  Poultice. 

Cataplasme  avec  la  cigue,  Fr. ; Schierlingumschlag , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Juice  of  Hemlock  1 fluidounce ; Linseed  Meal  4 ounces; 
boiling  Water  10  fluidounces.  Evaporate  the  juice  to  half  its  volume,  add  this  to  the 
linseed  meal  and  water  previously  mixed,  and  stir  them  together. — Br. 

Medical  Uses. — Hemlock  poultice  is  employed  especially  to  relieve  the  pain  of 
cancerous  and  other  sores.  Extract  of  conium  may  be  substituted  for  fresh  hemlock- 
leaves  in  its  preparation. 

CATAPLASMA  FERMENTI,  Br.— Yeast  Poultice. 

Cataplasme  avec  le  levUre  de  biere , Fr. ; Hefenumschlag,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Beer  Yeast  6 fluidounces ; Wheaten  Flour  14  ounces ; Water 


424 


CATAPLASMA  LINT.— CAT  ARIA. 


heated  to  100°  F.  6 fluidounces.  Mix  the  yeast  with  the  water,  and  stir  in  the  flour. 
Place  the  mass  near  the  fire  till  it  rises. — Br. 

The  rising  of  the  mass  takes  place  in  consequence  of  fermentation,  which  speedily  com- 
mences, and  whereby  carbon  dioxide  is  generated. 

Action  and  Uses.— Yeast  poultice  or  fermenting  poultice  is  of  great  service  to 
unhealthy,  and  especially  gangrenous,  ulcers , whether  of  a cancerous  nature  or  not,  in 
preventing  fetor  and  hastening  the  removal  of  devitalized  tissues.  Its  activity  is  indi- 
cated by  the  pain  it  sometimes  causes. 

CATAPLASMA  LINI,  Br, — Linseed  Poultice. 

Cataplasma  emolliens  s.  communis. — Flaxseed  poultice , E. ; Cataplasme  de  farine  de  lin , 
Cataplasme  simple  ( commuri ),  Fr.  ; Leinsamen-Umschlag , Gr. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Linseed  Meal  4 ounces ; boiling  Water  10  fluidounces.  Mix 
the  linseed  meal  gradually  with  the  water  with  constant  stirring. — Br. 

The  linseed  meal  of  the  British  Pharmacopoeia  of  1867  was  the  cake  meal  of  American 
commerce,  and  in  preparing  with  this  the  linseed  poultice  the  addition  of  J ounce  of  olive 
oil  was  deemed  necessary.  In  the  present  Pharmacopoeia  the  meal  contains  all  the  oil 
of  the  seed,  and  the  further  addition  of  oil  is  therefore  not  required.  A mixture  of 
ground  flaxseed  and  cake  meal  is  sometimes  preferred  for  poultices. 

Action  and  Uses. — Linseed  or  flaxseed  poultice  is  usually  employed  in  hospital 
practice  as  an  emollient  and  protective  to  inflamed  and  painful  parts.  Owing  to  its  tend- 
ency to  ferment,  it  is  apt  to  occasion  an  eruption  of  vesicles  or  pustules,  and  more  than 
any  other  poultice  to  render  the  skin  white,  wrinkled,  and  sodden.  To  prevent  these 
effects  and  preserve  its  moisture,  its  surface  should  be  covered  with  fresh  lard,  sweet  oil, 
linseed  oil,  or  glycerin,  or  else  one  or  the  other  of  these  articles  should  be  mixed  with 
the  poultice. 

CATAPLASMA  SINAPIS,  Br,— Mustard  Poultice. 

Sinapismus  ; Cataplasma  rubefaciens. — Sinapisme , Cataplasme  de  moutarde,  Cataplasme 
rubeflant , Fr. ; Senfteig,  Gr. 

Preparation. — Mix  Mustard  in  powder  2i  ounces  with  2 to  3 ounces  of  lukewarm 
Water;  mix  Linseed  Meal  2\  ounces  with  6 to  8 ounces  of  boiling  Water;  add  the 
former  to  the  latter  and  stir  them  together. — Br. 

Mix  recently  prepared  black  mustard  meal,  200  Grm.,  with  scarcely  tepid  water  in 
sufficient  quantity  to  obtain  a mass  of  the  consistence  of  a poultice. — F.  Cod. 

Mustard  of  the  British  Pharmacopoeia  is  a mixture  of  ground  black  and  white  mustard 
seeds,  though  the  proportion  of  the  two  is  not  indicated.  It  is  now  very  properly  mixed 
with  lukewarm  water,  but  on  incorporating  this  with  the  hot  flaxseed  poultice  a portion 
of  the  rubefacient  volatile  oil  is  necessarily  volatilized. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  poultice  is  convenient  for  maintaining  a moderately 
stimulant  action  upon  the  skin,  and  at  the  same  time  protecting  it.  It  is  very  useful  in 
local  muscular  rheumatism , in  thoracic  and  abdominal  inflammations , in  colic,  and  for 
exerting  a derivative  action  upon  the  feet  in  congestive  affections  of  the  head.  The 
preparation  and  uses  of  the  preparation  usually  called  sinapism  or  mustard  plaster  are 
described  under  Sinapis. 

CATAPLASMA  SOD^E  CHLORINATA,  Br,— Chlorine  Poultice. 

Cataplasme  chlorine , Fr.  ; Chlornatron  - XJmschlag,  Gr. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Solution  of  Chlorinated  Soda  2 fluidounces ; Linseed  Meal 
4 ounces;  Boiling  Water  8 fluidounces.  Mix  the  linseed  meal  gradually  with  the  water, 
and  add  the  solution  of  chlorinated  soda,  with  constant  stirring. — Br. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  chlorine  poultice  is  useful  in  the  same  cases  in  which  the 
yeast  poultice  is  appropriate ; that  is  to  say,  for  correcting  the  fetor  of  foul  and  slough- 
ing ulcers  and  for  stimulating  them. 

CAT  ARIA.— Catnep. 

Herba  nepetse  s.  catarise. — Catmint , E. ; Cataire,  Cliatavre , Herbe  aux  chats , Menthe  de 
chats , Fr. ; KatzenmUhze,  Katzenkraut , Gr. 

The  leaves  and  tops  of  Nepeta  Cataria,  Linne,  s.  Cataria  vulgaris,  Moench.  Bentley 
and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 209. 


CATECHU. 


425 


Nat.  Ord. — Labiatse. 

A perennial  herbaceous  plant  0.6  to  1.2  M.  (2  to  4 feet)  high,  indigenous  to  many  parts 
of  Asia  and  Europe  and  naturalized  in  the  United  States,  where  it  grows  near  dwellings, 
in  waste  places,  and  along  roadsides. 

Description. — The  stem  is  quadrangular,  gray -hairy,  and  branched  ; leaves  opposite, 
petiolate,  25  to  75  Mm.  (1  to  3 inches)  long,  triangular  ovate,  cordate  or  rounded  at  base, 
pointed  at  apex,  the  margin  strongly  crenate-serrate,  grayish-green,  soft  hairy  above  and 
velvety  beneath.  The  flowers  are  in  terminal  panicles,  the  lower  stalked,  the  upper  ses- 
sile, with  a gray,  hairy,  obliquely  five-toothed  calyx  and  a whitish,  purple-spotted  corolla, 
which  is  hairy  on  the  outside,  has  the  three-lobed  lower  lip  crenately  toothed,  and  four 
stamens  inserted  in  its  tube.  The  stem  and  larger  branches  are  rejected,  the  leaves  and 
flowering  tops  only  being  collected  in  June  and  July.  It  has  a peculiar  mint-like,  rather 
disagreeable  odor,  and  a bitterish,  aromatic,  and  pungent  taste.  A variety,  N.  citriodora, 
Becker , has  an  agreeable  lemon-like  or  melissa-like  odor.  On  drying,  the  fresh  drug  loses 
from  75  to  80  per  cent,  in  weight. 

Constituents. — The  chemical  constituents  resemble  those  of  other  Labiatse.  The 
plant  contains  a small  quantity  of  oxygenated  volatile  oil,  some  tannin,  a bitter  principle 
which  has  not  been  isolated,  and  other  medicinally  unimportant  constituents.  II.  It.  Gil- 
lespie (1889)  found  volatile  and  fixed  oils,  a crystalline  wax,  mucilage,  dextrin,  sugar, 
and  small  quantities  of  a bitter  principle  which  is  neither  alkaloid  nor  glucoside,  but  pos- 
sesses an  acid  reaction. 

Action  and  Uses. — Catnep  is  stimulant  and  slightly  tonic,  and,  like  the  mints  and 
some  other  plants  containing  a volatile  oil,  it  is  prescribed  in  various  disorders  attended 
with  debility  of  the  nervous  system  and  of  the  functions  immediately  depending  upon  it. 
It  is  most  commonly  used  for  the  relief  of  flatulent  colic  in  infants  and  to  promote  mens- 
truation when  it  is  retarded  or  painful.  Its  local  application  excites  a sense  of  warmth 
and  causes  partial  anaesthesia,  for  which  reason  it  is  used  to  relieve  toothache  and  other 
local  pains.  Cats  are  fond  of  it,  hence  the  name  catnep  (cat-nepeta).  It  is  given  in  an 
infusion  made  with  Gm.  15—30  (^ss-j)  in  Gm.  500  (a  pint)  of  water,  and  in  the  dose  of 
from  a teaspoonful  to  a tablespoonful. 

CATECHU,  U.  S.,  r.  G. — Catechu. 

Terra  Japonica,  Catechu  nigrum. — Cutch , E. ; Cachou  de  Pegu , Fr.  Cod.;  Katechu , 
Pegu- Catechu,  (A.)  Catecu , It.,  Sp. 

An  extract  prepared  principally  from  the  wood  of  Acacia  (Mimosa,  Linne  fllius ) 
Catechu,  Willdenow.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 95. 

Nat.  Ord. — Leguminosae,  Mimoseae. 

Origin. — A tree  about  9 to  12  M.  (30  to  40  feet)  high,  with  a pair  of  hooked  brown 
prickles  at  the  base  of  the  numerous  abruptly  bipinnate  leaves,  which  are  15  to  30  Cm. 
(5  to  12  inches)  long,  and  with  pale-yellow  flowers  arranged  in  dense  cylindrical  spikes 
about  75  Mm.  (3  inches)  long;  the  legume  is  brown,  veined,  flattened,  and  pointed. 

The  glabrous  and  pubescent  varieties  have  formerly  been  regarded  as  distinct  species, 
Mimosa  Sundra  and  M.  catechuoides,  Roxburgh.  The  tree  is  indigenous  to  the  East 
Indies  and  Ceylon,  and  is  completely  naturalized  in  Jamaica,  where  it  is  common  in  dry 
localities. 

Preparation. — The  wood,  which  is  heavy  and  very  durable,  is  covered  by  a dark- 
brown  fibrous  bark,  and  consists  of  the  whitish  alburnum  and  of  the  dark-colored  heart- 
wood,  varying  in  color  from  red-brown  to  blackish-brown.  This  latter  portion  is  cut  into 
chips,  which  are  boiled  with  water  in  earthen  pots  arranged  over  a rude  fireplace,  the 
decoction  when  sufficiently  strong  being  decanted  or  strained  into  other  vessels,  in  which 
the  evaporation  is  continued  until  the  extract  is  of  sufficient  consistence  to  be  poured  into 
clay  moulds,  into  cups  formed  of  leaves,  or  upon  mats  covered  with  the  ashes  of  cow- 
dung. 

In  Southern  India  the  wood  of  Acacia  (Mimosa,  Roxburgh)  Suma,  Kurz , whose  bark  is 
externally  white,  is  employed  in  the  same  manner,  the  bark  of  both  species  being  removed 
and  used  for  tanning.  The  last-named  species  is  also  common  in  the  forests  of  tropical 
Eastern  Africa,  and  has  been  introduced  into  South  America. 

The  importation  of  catechu  and  gambir  into  the  United  States  increased  from  2,645,000 
pounds  during  the  fiscal  year  1866-67  to  over  47,750,000  pounds  in  the  year  1879-80;  in 
1882  but  little  over  15,000,000  pounds  were  imported. 

Description. — Catechu  is  chiefly  exported  from  Pegu  and  Calcutta,  packed  in  mats, 


426 


CATECHU. 


chests,  or  boxes.  It  forms  several  layers  of  dark-brown  masses,  in  which  remnants  of  tbe 
matting  and  of  leaves  are  observed,  and  which  are  frequently  soft  near  the  centre.  When 
dry  it  is  hard  and  brittle,  breaking  into  irregular,  somewhat  porous  and  glossy  fragments, 
which  are  scarcely  translucent  on  the  edges,  almost  wholly  soluble  in  alcohol,  partly  sol- 
uble in  water,  and  have  but  little  odor  and  a strongly  astringent  and  sweetish  taste.  The 
solutions  have  a slight  acid  reaction.  Examined  by  the  microscope  under  water  or  glycerin, 
catechu  is  somewhat  crystalline.  The  catechu  in  balls  and  in  quadrangular  cakes,  made 
in  moulds  as  above  described,  is  rarely  met  with  in  our  commerce.  A fourth  variety, 
which  is  never  exported,  is  made  in  Kumaon  in  Northern  India  by  stopping  the  evapora- 
tion before  the  liquid  becomes  too  thick  ; it  bears  a closer  resemblance  to  gambir  than  to 
the  ordinary  catechu.  Good  catechu  yields  between  1.5  and  4.5  per  cent,  of  ash ; Fliick- 
iger  .obtained  from  Pegu  catechu  0.6  per  cent. 

Catechu  digested  with  ten  times  its  weight  of  alcohol  should  leave  an  insoluble  portion, 
which  should  not,  after  being  dried  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.),  amount  to  more  than  15  per  cent. 
The  tincture,  diluted  with  100  parts,  on  the  addition  of  solution  of  ferric  chloride  acquires 
a green  color.  If  2 parts  of  catechu  be  boiled  with  ten  times  the  quantity  of  water,  a 
brownish-red  liquid  results  which  turns  blue  litmus-paper  red. — U.  S. 

The  Areca  catechu , obtained  from  the  so-called  betel-nuts,  the  seeds  of  Areca  Catechu, 
Linne , does  not  form  an  article  of  commerce ; it  is  said  to  be  inferior  to  true  catechu,  and 
is  known  in  India,  in  part  at  least,  as  cata-cambu.  (See  Areca). 

Constituents. — The  relation  to  one  another  of  the  principal  constituents  of  catechu 
has  been  satisfactorily  explained  by  the  researches  of  Neubauer  (1859),  Hlasiwetz  (1867), 
Etti  (1877),  and  others.  When  catechu  is  treated  with  cold  water  mainly  catechu-tannic 
acid  is  found  in  the  brown  solution,  which  yields  precipitates  of  a grayish  color  with 
gelatin  and  of  an  olive-brown  with  ferric  salts.  The  aqueous  solution  contains  also  some 
catechin  and  quercetin , the  latter  having  been  obtained  by  Lowe  (1873)  by  treating  the 
solution  with  ether.  Most  of  the  catechin  or  catechuic  acid  is,  however,  left  undissolved 
by  the  treatment  with  cold  water,  and  may  be  obtained  pure  by  repeated  crystallization 
and  decolorizing  with  animal  charcoal,  or  removing  the  adhering  tannin  by  adding  lead 
acetate  until  a dark-colored  precipitate  is  no  longer  obtained.  Catechin  forms  white  silky 
needles  which  are  sparingly  soluble  in  cold  water,  but  more  readily  in  cold  alcohol  and 
ether ; it  requires  for  solution  less  than  4 parts  of  boiling  water,  about  3 parts  of  boiling 
alcohol,  and  6 parts  of  boiling  ether.  It  has  a sweetish  taste,  imparts  a green  color  to 
ferric  salts,  gives  a violet  color  on  being  agitated  with  water  and  powdered  iron,  the 
color  changing  to  green  on  exposure  to  air,  and  yields  precipitates  with  most  metallic 
salts,  but  not  with  tartar  emetic  nor  with  gelatin.  Its  formula,  according  to  Bochleder 
(1869),  is  C13H1205.  Subjected  to  dry  distillation,  it  yields  pyrocatechin,  and  when 
fused  with  potassa  is  converted  into  phloroglucin  (see  Phlorozinum)  and  protocate- 
chuic  acid.  Gautier  (1878)  gives  to  catechin  the  formula  C2iH1808,  and  found  among 
the  products  of  decomposition  by  potassa,  besides  the  two  mentioned,  also  the  hydro- 
carbon, CH4,  and  carbonic  and  formic  acids.  By  the  action  of  dilute  sulphuric  acid 
at  140°  C.  an  amorphous  orange-colored  body,  protocatechuic  acid,  and  a polyatomic 
phenol,  probably  C14HI607,  were  obtained.  Etti  adopts  Hlasiwetz’s  formula,  Ci9H1808,  for 
catechin  ; this  is  partly  decomposed  at  110°  C.  (230°  F.),  and  when  heated  to  160°  C. 
(320°  F.)  yields  an  anhydrid,  C38H34015,  which  is  catechu-tannic  acid,  and  has  also  been 
called  catechu-red ; it  is  a dark-red  amorphous  powder,  soluble  in  water,  alcohol,  and  ether. 
Below  180°  C.  (356°  F.),  or  by  continued  boiling  with  dilute  sulphuric  acid,  the  anhydride, 
C38H32014,  which  is  likewise  a tannin,  is  obtained.  By  continuing  the  action  of  sulphuric 
acid  the  catechuretin , C38H28012,  of  previous  investigators,  and  the  anhydride,  C38H30O]3,  are 
obtained,  which  are  insoluble  in  simple  solvents  and  weak  alkalies.  H.  K.  Bowman  (1869) 
determined  the  quantity  of  tannin  in  three  samples  of  catechu,  and  found  it  to  vary 
between  32.8  and  49.4  per  cent.  More  than  30  samples  examined  by  Lehmann  (1880) 
yielded  tannin  varying  between  22.6  and  50.8  per  cent,  and  catechin  varying  between 
13.8  and  33.8  per  cent. 

Protocatechuic  acid , C7H604,  is  formed  from  certain  tannins,  numerous  resins,  gum- 
resins,  and  other  substances  by  adding  them  to  melted  potassa.  It  crystallizes  in  color- 
less shining  needles  or  scales  containing  a molecule  of  water,  dissolves  readily  in  ether, 
alcohol,  and  hot  water,  melts  at  199°  C.  (390.2°  F.),  and  at  a higher  heat  is  decomposed 
into  carbon  dioxide  and  pyrocatechin.  Its  solution  is  colored  dark -green  by  ferric  chlo- 
ride, the  color  changing  to  blue,  and  subsequently  to  red,  on  the  gradual  addition  of  a very 
dilute  solution  of  sodium  carbonate. 

Pyrocatechin  or  catechol , C6H602,  is  contained  among  the  products  of  destructive  distil- 


CATECHU  PALLIDUM. 


427 


lation  of  several  tannins  and  vegetable  extracts.  It  crystallizes  in  short  rectangular 
prisms,  melts  at  104°  C.  (219.2°  F.),  and  boils  at  245°  C.  (473°  F.).  It  sublimes  in 
thin  laminae,  and  dissolves  easily  in  water,  alcohol,  and  ether.  Its  aqueous  solution  is 
colored  dark-green  by  ferric  chloride,  the  color  changing  to  violet  on  the  addition  of 
ammonia,  sodium  bicarbonate,  or  tartaric  acid.  The  methylic  ether  of  pyrocatechin  is 
guaiacol. 

Impurities. — Fragments  of  leaves,  mats,  or  cloth  are  usually  found  in  the  commercial 
article.  An  artificial  catechu , proposed  by  Rave  (1873),  may  be  obtained  by  slightly  roast- 
ing powdered  mahogany  or  allied  woods,  and  then  boiling  with  water ; it  is  said  to  be  service- 
able in  dyeing. 

Astringent  Products  of  Other  Species. — The  bark  of  many  species  of  acacia  contains  so 
much  tannin  as  to  render  it  valuable  for  tanning  purposes.  The  babul-bark  of  India  is  obtained 
from  Ac.  arabica,  Willdenow , the  fruit  of  which  contains  about  22  per  cent,  of  tannin,  and  is 
also  known  under  the  name  of  neb-neb  or  bablah ; the  aqueous  extract  of  the  latter,  known  as 
akakia , is  used  in  India  like  catechu.  The  Australian  wattle-bark  is  produced  by  A.  decurrens, 
Willdenow,  and  other  species. 

Cortex  adstringens  brasiliensis,  which  was  used  in  Europe  during  the  first  half  of  the  present 
century,  is  obtained  from  Stryphnodendron  polyphyllum,  Martins , a tree  known  in  Brazil  as  bar- 
batimao  or  barbimao.  The  bark  is  covered  with  a thick  fissured  blackish  red-brown  cork,  has  a 
light-brown  bast-layer  readily  separating  in  bands,  possesses  a strongly  astringent  and  somewhat 
mucilaginous  taste,  and  contains  about  30  per  cent  of  tannin,  which  yields  with  ferric  salts  a 
blackish  gray-green  precipitate.  Pithecollobium  Avaremotemo,  Martius , s.  Acacia  virginalis, 
Pohl , and  Acacia  J urema,  Martius,  yield  similar  barks. 

CATECHU  PALLIDUM.— Pale  Catechu. 

Catechu , Br.,  P.  G. ; Terra  japonica , Gambir,  Gambier,  E.  ; Gambir  cubique,  Fr.  ; 
Gambir,  Gambir- Catechu,  G. 

An  extract  of  the  leaves  and  young  shoots  of  Uncaria  Gambier,  Roxburgh , s.  Nauclea 
Gambir,  Hunter.  Trans.  Linn.  Soc.,  vol.  ix.  plate  22  ; Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 139. 

Mat  Ord. — Rubiacese,  Naucleae. 

Origin. — This  is  a shrubby  climber  having  opposite  leaves,  and  bearing  globular 
heads  of  pinkish  flowers  upon  axillary  laterally  compressed  peduncles,  which  taper  toward 
the  apex,  are  articulated  above,  and  after  the  fall  of  the  whole  inflorescence  curve  back- 
ward and  form  stout  and  hard  hooks,  by  which  the  plant  supports  itself  in  climbing.  It 
is  indigenous  to  Ceylon,  Sumatra,  and  the  countries  about  the  Straits  of  Malacca,  and  is 
extensively  cultivated  near  Singapore.  Uncaria  (Nauclea,  Hunter)  acida,  Roxburgh , indig- 
enous to  Pulo  Penang  and  neighboring  islands,  is  nearly  allied  to  the  preceding  species, 
and  perhaps  merely  a variety  of  it ; it  appears  also  to  be  used  in  the  preparation  of 
gambir. 

Preparation. — The  fresh  leaves  and  young  shoots  are  boiled  in  water  for  an  hour, 
after  which  the  decoction  is  decanted  and  the  residue  expressed  with  the  hands.  The 
liquid  is  now  evaporated  to  the  consistence  of  a thin  syrup,  poured  into  buckets,  and 
stirred  by  working  a stick  of  soft  wood  up  and  down  in  a sloping  direction,  when  it  grad- 
ually sets  into  a soft  mass ; this  is  placed  in  shallow  square  boxes,  and  when  sufficiently 
firm  is  cut  into  cubes  and  dried  in  the  shade. 

Gambir  is  principally  exported  from  Singapore,  packed  in  boxes.  Catechu,  P.  G .,  applies 
to  gambir  as  well  as  to  cutch. 

Description. — It  is  met  with  in  cubes  or  in  large  irregular  masses,  the  latter  having 
an  external  resemblance  to,  but  are  mostly  of  a lighter-brown  color  than,  catechu,  and 
presenting  upon  the  irregular  fracture  a dull  brown-gray  appearance,  with  some  streaks 
of  a darker  brown.  The  cubes  are  25  Mm.  (about  an  inch)  square  on  each  side,  exter- 
nally light  or  deep  brown,  internally  brownish  gray.  Both  varieties  are  friable,  inodor- 
ous, of  a bitterish,  astringent  finally  sweet  taste,  and  show  under  the  microscope  numerous 
small  acicular  crystals.  Gambir  is  only  partially  soluble  in  cold  water,  but  yields  with 
hot  water  a turbid  solution,  and  with  hot  alcohol  a clear  dark-brown  solution,  leaving  only 
the  impurities  undissolved,  and  these  should  not  exceed  15  per  cent,  in  weight  ( P . G.). 
On  incineration  gambir  yields  21  to  41  per  cent,  (not  over  6 per  cent.,  P.  G.)  of  ash,  con- 
sisting mostly  of  earthy  salts. 

Constituents. — Gambir  contains  the  same  constituents  as  catechu,  but  less  tannin 
than  the  latter  ; the  crystalline  structure  observed  under  the  microscope  is  due  to  catechin. 
Hlasiwetz  (1867)  detected  quercetin  in  gambir.  Be  Vrij  (1865)  avers  the  presence  of 
quinovic  acid  in  many  species  of  Nauclea,  and  it  is  not  impossible  that  it  may  also  be 
found  in  gambir.  Gautier  (1878)  regards  the  catechin  of  gambir  as  differing  in  composi- 


428 


CAULOPHYLLUM. 


tion  from  that  of  catechu.  Twelve  samples  of  gambir  examined  by  Lehmann  (1880)  yielded 
between  25.5  and  37.8  per  cent,  of  tannin  and  between  19.96  and  28.69  per  cent,  of  catechin. 

Action  and  Uses. — Catechu  is  astringent  by  virtue  of  the  tannic  acid  it  contains, 
and  was  originally  used  to  constringe  relaxed  tissues,  arrest  fluxes,  and  for  similar  pur- 
poses. It  is  harsher  but  more  energetic  than  kino  in  its  action.  It  continues  to  be  one 
of  the  most  commonly  employed  of  astringent  medicines  for  checking  diarrhoea  produced 
by  cold  or  by  irritating  ingesta,  after  their  removal  by  purgation.  It  is  best  adminis- 
tered for  this  purpose  in  the  officinal  chalk  mixture.  It  is  alleged  to  check  the  bronchial 
secretion  in  chronic  phthisis  and  bronchitis , and  to  moderate  uterine  hsernorrhage  and 
leucorrhcea.  It  is  of  greater  utility  as  a local  astringent,  applied  to  the  nostrils  in 
epistaxis,  to  the  mouth  in  case  of  spongy  and  bleeding  gums,  to  the  vagina  in  relaxation 
and  leucorrhoea  of  this  canal,  and  to  the  throat  and  larynx  in  cases  of  flaccidity  of  these 
parts.  Lozenges  containing  it  are  used  to  correct  hoarseness  and  roughness  of  the  voice 
due  to  this  cause.  They  sometimes  are  made  with  catechu,  cascarilla,  amber,  orris, 
peppermint,  etc.,  to  conceal  the  odor  of  the  breath  caused  by  fetid  follicular  secretions , by 
tobacco , etc.  The  astringency  of  catechu  renders  it  a useful  ingredient  of  dentrifices. 
In  gargles  it  relieves  sore  throat  unattended  with  active  inflammation ; in  lotions  it  forms 
a valuable  application  to  ulcerated  nipples  and  other  ulcers  after  the  acute  state  has 
passed ; such  lotions  may  contain  catechu  alone,  or,  in  addition  to  it,  borax,  alum, 
sulphate  of  copper,  etc.  Gambir  catechu  has  the  same  medicinal  properties,  but  its  astrin- 
gency is  rather  less.  The  dose  of  catechu  is  from  Gm.  0.05-2.0  (gr.  i-xxx).  A com- 
pound infusion  of  catechu  is  made  with  1 troyounce  of  this  drug,  60  grains  of  powdered 
cinnamon,  and  a pint  of  boiling  water.  It  is  especially  useful  in  the  diarrhoea  of  chil- 
dren, to  whom  it  may  be  given  in  doses  of  a tablespoonful  or  more. 

CAULOPHYLLUM,  U.  S. — Blue  Cohosh. 

Pappoose-root , Squaw-root,  Blueberry -root. 

The  rhizome  and  rootlets  of  Caulophyllum  (Leontice,  Linne)  thalictroides,  Michaux. 

Nat.  Ord. — Berberidaceae. 

Origin. — A smooth  and  glaucous  perennial  with  a simple  stem,  bearing  near  its  apex 
a large  sessile  triternately  compound  leaf,  with  obovate  three-or  five-toothed  or  lobed 
leaflets  ; the  greenish-yellow  flowers,  about  twelve  in  number,  form  a terminal  raceme,  and 
produce  capsules  which  are  soon  ruptured  by  the  two  globular  seeds,  these  remaining 
enclosed  in  a blue  fleshy  integument.  The  plant  is  found  in  rich  woodlands  from  Canada 
south  to  Carolina  and  Kentucky.  It  flowers  in  April  and  May. 

Description. — The  rhizome  is  nearly  horizontal,  somewhat  matted,  10  Cm.  (4  inches) 
long,  about  6 to  10  Mm.  (1  to  § inch)  thick,  more  or  less  bent,  knotty  from  the  numer- 
ous concave  approximate  stem-scars  on  the  upper  side,  and  from  the  short  branches, 
externally  brown-gray,  internally  whitish,  the  tough  ligneous  rays  narrow  and  many. 
The  numerous  radical  fibres  are  mostly  on  the  lower  side,  75  or  100  Mm.  (3  or  4 inches) 
long  and  about  1 Mm.  inch)  thick,  rather  tough,  pale  yellowish-brown  externally, 
and  white  internally.  Blue  cohosh  is  nearly  inodorous  and  has  a sweetish-bitter  after- 
ward somewhat  acrid  taste.  As  met  with  in  commerce,  it  is  sometimes  mixed  with  a large 
proportion  of  the  rhizome  of  hydrastis,  which  is  easily  recognized  by  its  different  shape 
and  its  bright-yellow  color  internally. 

Constituents. — F.  F.  Mayer  (1863)  found  blue  cohosh  to  contain  saponin  and  a 
body  with  alkaloidal  reactions.  Ebert  (1864)  corroborated  this  statement,  proved  also 
the  presence  of  two  resins,  starch,  gum,  and  other  common  principles,  and  obtained  21 
per  cent,  of  ash,  but  could  not  obtain  the  alkaloid  reactions.  Lloyd  (1887)  isolated  the 
alkaloid,  caulophylline,  and  in  1893  studied  it  at  some  length.  He  extracted  the  pow- 
dered root  with  dilute  alcohol  (3  alcohol,  2 water),  evaporated  to  drive  off  the  alcohol, 
diluted  with  water,  filtered,  evaporated  to  a syrupy  consistency  and  extracted  with  chlo- 
roform in  the  presence  of  ferric  hydroxide  and  sodium  bicarbonate.  It  was  then  taken  up 
after  evaporating  the  solvent  with  dilute  sulphuric  acid,  made  alkaline  with  ammonia, 
treated  with  chloroform,  this  evaporated  to  a small  bulk  and  hydrochloric  acid  carefully 
added.  The  hydrochlorate  thus  obtained  forms  a crystalline  magma,  while  the  alkaloid 
itself  on  evaporation  of  its  solutions  forms  a glass-like  film.  With  Mayer’s  solution,  a 
white  precipitate ; iodo-potassic  iodide,  heavy  brown  precipitate ; sodium  phospho- 
molybdate,  heavy  precipitate.  On  concentrating  the  alcoholic  tincture  and  pouring  it  into 
water  a precipitate  of  the  resins  is  obtained  amounting  to  about  12  per  cent,  of  the  root; 
it  has  the  peculiar  taste  of  blue  cohosh  and  constitutes  the  so-called  caulophyllin. 


CEANO  THUS.— CEL  A STR  US. 


429 


Action  and  Uses. — Nothing  has  recently  been  added  to  our  knowledge  of  its 
reputed  virtues.  It  is  said  to  be  demulcent,  antispasmodic,  emmenagogue,  and  diuretic. 
It  is  not  proved  to  possess  medicinal  powers.  A decoction  made  with  Gm.  30  (5j) 
of  the  root  to  a pint  of  water  may  be  given  in  the  dose  of  1 or  2 ounces. 

CEANOTHUS.-Red  Root. 

New  Jersey  tea , E. ; Ceanothe , Fr. ; Seckelblumen- 1 Vurzel,  G. 

The  root  of  Ceanothus  americanus,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Rhamnese. 

Origin. — This  is  a shrubby  plant  indigenous  to  the  greater  part  of  North  America, 
growing  in  pine  barrens  and  dry  woodlands.  It  is  about  90  Cm.  (3  feet)  high,  and  has 
alternate  ovate  or  oblong-ovate,  serrate  leaves,  which  are  sometimes  heart-shaped  at  the 
base,  downy  underneath,  and  three-veined.  The  small  white  flowers  are  in  axillary  pani- 
cles and  produce  three-lobed  capsules  containing  three  seeds. 

Description. — The  root  is  about  30  Cm.  (a  foot)  long,  nearly  cylindrical,  25  Mm. 
(an  inch)  or  more  thick,  with  a knotty  head  and  a few  branches,  and  covered  with  a 
firmly  adhering  rust-colored  bark,  which  is  about  2 Mm.  (yL  inch)  thick,  with  some  longi- 
tudinal ridges,  hard,  breaks  with  a short  granular  fracture,  and  when  cut  with  a knife  has 
a brown-red  and  waxy  appearance.  The  wood  is  very  tough,  of  a light  red-brown  color 
and  of  a waxy  lustre  upon  the  recently-cut  surface.  The  branches  have  a rather  lighter- 
colored  bark  and  a whitish  wood.  The  root  is  without  odor  and  has  a bitterish-astringent 
taste,  which  is  strongest  in  the  bark. 

Constituents. — Red  root  lias  not  been  analyzed,  but  is  known  to  contain  tannin. 
Rowman  (1869)  estimated  the  tannin  of  the  leaves  to  amount  to  9.21  per  cent. 

Other  Species. — Ceanothus  ovalis,  Bigelow , which  has  narrow  oval  leaves,  is  indigenous  from 
Vermont  to  the  Rocky  Mountains. 

Cean.  coeruleus,  Lagasca,  s.  C.  azureus,  Desfontaines , a native  of  Mexico,  has  been  employed 
there  as  a febrifuge. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  leaves  of  this  plant  were  used  during  the  American  War 
of  Independence  as  a substitute  for  Chinese  tea,  and  in  the  late  Civil  War  it  was 
employed  in  the  same  manner,  and  pronounced  “ a good  substitute  for  indifferent  black 
tea.”  The  root  is  astringent,  and  was  applied  locally  by  the  Cherokee  Indians  in  gonor- 
rhoea and  cancer , and  given  internally  in  syphilis.  A decoction  of  the  leaves  and  seeds 
has  been  used  in  xdceration  of  the  mouth  and  throat,  and  internally  in  dysentery.  In  the 
West  Indies  and  Mexico  it  is  said  that  a species  of  Ceanothus  (C.  reclinatus,  De  Candolle') 
is  used  for  the  purposes  mentioned  (Bull,  de  Therap .,  xcvii.  119). 

CELASTRUS. — Stafftree-Bark. 

False  bittersweet , Feverticig,  Staff-vine , E. ; Celastre , Fr. ; Celaster , G. 

The  bark  of  Celastrus  scandens,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Celastraceae. 

Origin. — The  staff  tree  is  a native  of  Canada,  and  of  the  United  States  southward 
to  North  Carolina,  growing  in  woods  and  thickets  and  twining  about  trees,  ascending  to  a 
considerable  height.  The  leaves  are  alternate,  ovate-oblong,  acuminate,  and  serrate ; the 
flowers  are  in  small  axillary  racemes,  greenish-white,  and  produce  orange-colored  three- 
valved  capsules  containing  from  three  to  six  seeds,  which  are  covered  with  a scarlet-red 
arillus. 

Description. — The  root-bark,  which  is  usually  preferred,  is  in  irregular  thin  quills 
or  double  quills,  is  nearly  smooth,  externally  brown  or  dark  orange-brown  ; the  outer 
layer,  which  is  rather  tough,  separates  concentrically  and  shows  another  layer  of  a bright 
orange-red  color,  which  covers  the  white,  fragile,  likewise  concentrically-arranged  liber. 
The  internal  surface  is  whitish  and  finely  striate.  The  bark  of  the  stem  resembles  the 
root-bark,  but  is  externally  of  an  ash-gray  or  brown-gray  color.  It  is  without  odor  and 
possesses  a bitterish-sweet  taste.  The  tough  white  wood  is  occasionally  found  adhering 
to  the  bark  as  met  with  in  commerce. 

Constituents. — The  bark  has  not  been  analyzed,  but  Prof.  Wayne  (1872)  obtained 
from  it  a principle  in  white  minute  crystals  resembling  chloral  hydrate  in  appearance. 
The  process  for  obtaining  this  celastrin  has  not  been  published. 

Action  and  Uses. — “ The  bark  has  considerable  reputation  in  domestic  practice  as 
an  emetic,  discutient,  and  anti-syphilitic  ; it  also  appears  to  possess  some  narcotic  powers  ” 
(Griffith).  It  is  popularly  supposed  capable  of  “ removing  hepatic  obstructions,”  what- 
ever that  may  mean. 


430 


CEPHALANTHUS.  -CERA. 


CEPHALANTHUS.— Buttonbush. 

Buttonwood , Crane  willow , Swamp  dogwood , E. 

The  bark  of  Cephalanthus  occidentals,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Rubiaceas,  Cinchoneae. 

Origin. — The  buttonbush  grows  in  wet  places  in  Canada  and  the  United  States, 
attains  a height  of  3 to  4.5  M.  (10  to  15  feet),  has  ovate,  acuminate,  and  entire  leaves, 
which  are  opposite  or  in  whorls  of  three,  and  the  white  flowers  are  aggregated  in  dense 
globular  terminal  and  axillary  heads. 

Description. — Buttonbush-bark,  as  found  in  commerce,  is  in  narrow  curved  pieces 
25  Mm.  (an  inch)  or  more  in  length.  The  outer  surface  is  somewhat  glossy,  gray-brown, 
finely  striate  longitudinally,  or  when  older  covered  with  a scaly  and  fissured  ash-colored 
or  brown-gray  soft  cork.  The  inner  bark  is  white  and  smooth,  after  drying  light  rust- 
brown,  rather  tough,  and  breaks  with  a fibrous  fracture.  The  bark  is  inodorous  and  has 
a slightly  astringent  and  somewhat  bitter  taste. 

Allied  Plants. — Sarcocephalus  esculentus,  Afzel. — This  plant  is  the  doundake  of  the  West 
Coast  of  Africa,  in  the  neighborhood  of  Senegambia  and  Sierra  Leone.  In  large  quantities  the 
fruit  acts  as  an  emetic.  The  grayish  bark  is  used  by  the  negroes  as  a febrifuge  ; experiments 
show,  however,  that  it  is  a tonic  astringent,  and  is  of  use  in  anorexia,  atonic  dyspepsia,  and  in 
anaemia  following  malarial  fever. 

Constituents. — Examined  by  E.  M.  Hattan  (1874),  the  bark  was  found  to  contain 
tannin,  a principle  analogous  to  saponin,  an  uncrystallizable  bitter  principle  freely  soluble 
in  alcohol  and  water,  two  resins,  fat,  gum,  glucose,  and  starch.  A fluorescent  body  was 
obtained  from  the  precipitates  occasioned  by  lead  acetate  and  subacetate;  it  crystal- 
lizes in  needles,  is  soluble  in  water,  alcohol,  and  ether,  yields  a yellow  precipitate  with 
lead  subacetate,  and  has  in  alkaline  solutions  a yellow  color  which  in  reflected  light 
appears  blue. 

Action  and  Uses. — There  is  no  evidence  to  prove  that  this  plant  possesses  medici- 
nal virtues  sufficient  to  entitle  it  to  consideration.  It  is  reputed  to  have  been  useful  in 
paralysis , coughs , and  constitutional  syphilis.  In  decoction  and  applied  as  a lotion  it  is 
one  of  the  innumerable  remedies  for  poisoning  by  Rhus  toxicodendron. 

CERA,  77.  S.,  Br.,  F.  G .,  F.  It.— Wax. 

Wachs,  G. ; Cire,  Fr. ; Cere , It.,  Sp. 

The  prepared  honeycomb  of  the  hive-bee  or  honey-bee,  Apis  mellifica,  Linne. 

Class  Insecta.  Order  Hymenoptera. 

Official  Varieties. — 1.  Cera  flava,  U.  S.,  Br.,  P.  G. ; Cera ,F.It.;  Yellow 
wax  (Cera  citrina). — Beeswax,  E. ; Cere  jaune,  Fr. ; Gelbes  Wachs,  G. ; Cera  virgine, 
Cera  gialla,  It. ; Cera  amarilla,  Sp. 

2.  Cera  alba,  U.  S.,  Br.,  P.  G. ; White  wax,  E. ; Cire  blanche,  Fr.;  Weisses 
Wachs,  G. ; Cera  bianca,  It. ; Cera  blanca,  Sp.  Yellow  wax  bleached  by  exposure  to 
moisture,  air,  and  light. 

Origin. — The  insect  has  been  domesticated  from  an  early  period,  and  several  varieties 
are  known ; but  the  Apis  fasciata  of  Egypt,  A.  unicolor  of  Madagascar,  and  A.  pal- 
lida of  South  America  may  perhaps  be  all  distinct  species.  The  bees  live  in  societies 
called  swarms , which  are  composed  of  one  female  or  queen  hee,  several  hundred  males  or 
drones , and  ten  thousand  or  more  working  bees,  which  are  females  with  undeveloped  ovaries. 
The  wax  is  secreted  in  thin  scales  between  the  rings  of  the  belly,  and  is  used  in  the 
construction  of  the  hexagonal  cells  which  form  the  comb  and  are  filled  with  honey. 
To  obtain  the  wax  the  honey  is  drained  off,  the  comb  expressed,  melted  in  water,  and 
after  the  impurities  have  subsided  the  wax  is  allowed  to  cool  or  run  into  suitable 
moulds.  By  filtering  the  crude  wax  through  paper  at  a sufficiently  elevated  tempera- 
ture a very  handsome  product  is  obtained.  Beeswax  is  largely  produced  in  the  United 
States,  particularly  in  some  of  the  Western  and  Southern  States,  and  its  importation  from 
the  West  Indies  has  decreased  to  6000  or  7000  pounds  annually. 

Wax-Bleaching. — Melted  beeswax  is  solidified  in  thin  ribbon-like  sheets  by  passing  it 
over  wet  revolving  cylinders,  or  it  is  finely  granulated  and  then  exposed  to  the  light  and 
air,  being  moistened  from  time  to  time  and  occasionally  turned.  It  is  then  remelted,  and 
the  process  repeated  until  the  desired  degree  of  whiteness  has  been  attained.  Wax 
may  also  be  deprived  of  its  color  by  chlorine,  but  such  a product  is  much  inferior  to 
the  sun-bleached  wax. 


CERA. 


431 


Properties. — Beeswax  is  a solid  body,  having  a more  or  less  deep-yellow,  or  some- 
times a brownish-yellow,  color,  a slight  lustre,  a somewhat  unctuous  touch,  a finely 
granular  fracture,  a peculiar  aromatic  honey-like  odor,  and  a slight  balsamic  taste.  Its 
specific  gravity  varies  between  about  .955  and  .967,  and  its  fusing-point  between  63°  and 
64°  C.  (145.4°-147.2°  F.).  The  density  of  wax  is,  according  to  Hager,  most  con- 
veniently determined  by  melting  a small  portion,  dropping  it  upon  a slightly  dampened 
glass  or  porcelain  tile,  and  immersing  the  solidified  drops  in  alcohol  of  known  density, 
in  which  they  must  float  without  rising  to  the  surface  or  sinking  to  the  bottom.  Wax 
is  brittle  in  the  cold,  becomes  plastic  by  the  heat  of  the  hand,  and  when  melted  forms  a 
clear  reddish-yellow  liquid,  which  congeals  with  a smooth  and  level  surface  and  appears 
irregularly  crystalline  under  the  microscope.  Wax  is  insoluble  in  water  and  slightly 
soluble  in  cold  alcohol,  but  dissolves  in  300  parts  of  boiling  alcohol,  leaving  only  a 
small-brownish-yellow  residue,  and  depositing  on  cooling  a whitish  crystalline  mass, 
while  the  filtrate  is  yellowish  and  not  rendered  turbid  by  water.  Wax  is  wholly  soluble 
in  chloroform,  ether,  benzin,  oil  of  turpentine,  and  other  volatile  oils,  and  in  fixed  oils, 
and  partially  soluble  in  cold  benzene  or  carbon  disulphide,  and  completely  in  these  liquids 
at  25°-30°  C.  (77°-86°  F.).  According  to  Hager,  ether  dissolves  only  about  one-half 
of  the  wax  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  and  benzene  or  benzin  about  27  per  cent.  On  dry  distilla- 
tion wax  yields  an  aqueous  liquid,  a butyraceous  oil,  a scaly  crystalline  body,  and  empy- 
reumatic  products,  but  no  acrolein. 

White  wax  is  usually  met  with  in  yellowish-white  thin  circular  cakes,  which  are  about 
10  Cm.  (4  inches)  in  diameter,  slightly  translucent,  of  a somewhat  splintery  fracture  in 
the  cold,  have  a specific  gravity  of  about  .965  to  .975  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  and  fuse  near 
65°  C.  (149°  F.).  Its  slight  odor  suggests  that  of  rancidity ; its  taste  is  insipid.  In 
other  respects  it  has  the  characteristics  and  answers  to  the  tests  of  yellow  wax. 

Constituents. — Yellow  wax  contains  some  aromatic  and  coloring  matters,  which 
vary  somewhat  in  wax  from  different  localities,  and  are  destroyed  by  the  bleaching 
process ; they  are  partly  dissolved  by  cold  alcohol,  together  with  a very  small  quantity 
of  cerolein , which  resembles  a fat  in  appearance.  Boiling  90  per  cent,  alcohol  dissolves 
10  to  20  per  cent,  of  cerin  or  cerotic  acid,  C27H5402,  which  exists  likewise  in  Chinese 
wax,  is  crystalline,  and  fuses  in  its  pure  state  at  about  81°  C.  (177.8°  F.).  Schal- 
feief  (1876)  succeeded,  by  fractional  precipitation  with  lead  acetate,  in  separating  it  into 
several  acids,  one  having  the  composition  C34H6802.  Repeated  boiling  of  wax  with  alcohol 
leaves  yellow  myricin  behind,  which  is  myricyl-palmitate , C30H61.C16H31O2 ; when  pure  it 
forms  feathery  crystals,  has  the  fusing-point  at  72°  C.  (161.6°  F.),  is  very  sparingly 
soluble  in  alcohol,  more  freely  in  ether  and  oil  of  turpentine,  and  is  with  difficulty  saponi- 
fied by  boiling  with  concentrated  solution  of  potassa.  The  principle  to  which  bleached 
wax  owes  its  rancid  odor  has  not  been  ascertained. 

Vegetable  wax  is  obtained  in  different  countries  from  various  species  of  Myrica,  Rhus, 
Corypha,  etc.  Some  of  them  are  glyceryl  compounds  of  fatty  acids,  and  therefore  true 
fats,  but  the  exact  composition  of  most  of  them  has  not  been  ascertained. 

Adulterations  and  Substitutions. — The  coarse  adulterations  with  flour,  white 
lead,  and  similar  substances  are  perhaps  rarely  practised  at  the  present  time,  since  they 
are  so  readily  detected  by  their  insolubility  in  ether,  chloroform,  and  oil  of  turpentine, 
and  by  subsiding  or  mixing  with  hot  water  on  fusing  the  wax  with  it.  The  materials 
most  frequently  employed  are  resin,  commercial  stearin  (the  residue  left  on  expressing 
lard  oil),  suet,  and  similar  fats,  and  paraffin  and  the  closely-allied  ceresin  or  ozokerite 
of  Gallicia.  The  latter,  which  has  also  been  termed  mineral-  or  earth-wax , is  found  in 
nearly  black  masses,  but  is  obtained  in  the  process  of  purification  of  various  shades  of 
color  varying  between  dark-yellow  and  white.  This  and  paraffin  may  be  readily  detected 
and  their  quantity  estimated  by  their  stability  when  heated  with  concentrated  sulphuric 
acid,  by  which  the  beeswax  is  completely  destroyed,  while  they  are  not  affected,  and 
may  be  recovered  nearly  pure  by  fusing  the  residuary  mass  repeatedly  with  fresh  portions 
of  water.  If  the  adulterated  wax  be  previously  exhausted  with  light  petroleum  benzin, 
which  dissolves  but  little  of  the  beeswax,  the  solution  will  contain  the  paraffin,  together 
with  any  fat  present,  and  the  residue  left  on  evaporation  may  be  treated  with  sulphuric 
acid;  this  will  destroy  the  fat  and  leave  the  paraffin.  The  determination  of  the  specific 
gravity  and  fusing-point  has  been  recommended  for  detecting  adulterations,  paraffin  and 
tallow  being  lighter,  while  resins,  stearin,  Japan  wax,  etc.  are  heavier,  than  wax  ; but 
mixtures  of  the  adulterants  may  be  prepared  which  agree  pretty  well  in  these  respects 
with  the  natural  product.  It  must  also  be  remembered  that  resins,  like  beeswax  itself, 
are  destroyed  by  the  influence  of  hot  sulphuric  acid.  But  most  resins  and  fatty  acids  are 


432 


CERATA. 


soluble  without  difficulty  in  cold  strong  alcohol,  which  takes  up  but  minute  quantities  of 
beeswax  ; and  this  behavior  affords  a means  of  detecting  such  adulterations.  Fats,  how- 
ever, are  not  dissolved  by  alcohol.  With  few  exceptions  they  are  readily  soluble  in  cold 
petroleum  benzin,  and  their  quantity  may  be  estimated.  To  apply  these  tests  the  wax 
should  be  cut  into  very  thin  pieces  and  digested  for  some  time  near  the  boiling-point. 
After  cooling  the  liquid  is  decanted,  and  will  then  contain  fatty  acids  and  resin  should 
alcohol  have  been  used,  or  fats  and  paraffin  if  petroleum  benzin  should  have  been 
employed  as  the  solvent.  Advantage  may  also  be  taken  of  the  behavior  of  Japan  wax 
and  other  fats  to  form  a milky  emulsion  on  being  boiled  with  an  aqueous  solution  of 
borax,  from  which  on  cooling  pure  wax  separates  completely.  When  melted  wax  is 
allowed  to  congeal  without  being  disturbed,  it  presents  a level  surface,  but  the  surface  of 
paraffin  is  concave  ; and  A.  W.  Miller  (1874)  has  observed  this  distinctly  even  in  mixtures 
of  pure  wax  and  paraffin  ; the  translucent  appearance  of  the  latter  is  even  noticed  on  the 
edges  of  the  mixture,  while  pure  yellow  wax  is  almost  opaque.  Another  perhaps  still  more 
deceptive  fraud  has  been  practised  in  coating  adulterated  with  a thin  layer  of  pure  wax 
of  the  same  color ; and  completely  artificial  wax  has  been  made  (1876)  by  fusing  together 
rosin  and  paraffin  or  rosin,  soap,  and  stearic  acid ; the  solubility  in  cold  strong  alcohol, 
and  in  the  former  case  the  indestructibility  of  the  undissolved  portion  by  hot  sulphuric 
acid,  serve  to  detect  these  frauds.  The  admixture  of  fats  may  also  be  detected  by  the 
acrid  odor  of  the  vapors  given  off  on  throwing  the  suspected  wax  upon  red-hot  charcoal. 
(See  paper  on  white  wax  and  its  adulterations  by  Prof.  Bedford  in  Proc.  Amer.  Phar. 
Assoc.,  1877,  p.  444.) 

Tests. — If  1 Gm.  of  wax  be  boiled  for  half  an  hour  with  35  Cc.  of  a 15  per  cent, 
solution  of  sodium  hydroxide,  the  volume  being  preserved  by  the  occasional  addition  of 
water,  the  wax  should  separate  on  cooling,  without  rendering  the  liquid  opaque,  and  no 
precipitate  should  be  produced  in  the  filtered  liquid  by  hydrochloric  acid  (absence  of  fats 
or  fatty  acids,  Japan  wax,  resin)  ; nor  should  the  same  reagent  produce  a precipitate  in 
water  which  has  been  boiled  with  a portion  of  the  wax  (absence  of  soap).  If  5 Gm.  of 
wax  be  heated  in  a flask  for  fifteen  minutes  with  25  Cc.  of  sulphuric  acid  to  160°  C. 
(320°  F.),  and  the  mixture  diluted  with  water,  no  solid,  wax-like  body  should  separate 
(absence  of  paraffin).  If  wax  be  ignited  on  platinum,  it  should  not  emit  the  odor  of 
acrolein  (absence  of  tallow  and  other  fats).—  TJ.  S.  If  1 Gm.  of  wax  be  boiled  for  a 
quarter  of  an  hour  with  10  Cc.  of  water  and  3 Gm.  of  sodium  carbonate,  and  cooled,  the 
wax  must  congeal  on  the  surface  of  the  liquid,  and  the  latter  must  not  appear  turbid 
(Japan  wax,  resin,  stearic  acid). — P.  G.  Boiling  alcohol  dissolves  more  or  less  of  wax, 
leaving  a yellow  residue,  1 part  of  which  should  be  entirely  soluble  in  10  parts  of  chlo- 
roform (absence  of  starch,  mineral  substances,  etc.).  On  cooling  the  alcoholic  solution, 
the  wax  should  be  precipitated  in  the  form  of  a white  crystalline  magma,  and  after  cool- 
ing the  solution  to  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  the  almost  colorless  filtered  liquid  should  become 
only  opalescent  with  water,  and  should  have  at  most  only  a slight  acid  reaction  on  blue 
litmus-paper  (absence  of  curcuma  or  other  yellow  coloring-matters,  stearic  acid,  and 
resins). — P.  G. 

Action  and  Uses. — Wax  is  simply  a protective.  Its  use  in  ancient  times  as  a 
remedy  for  diarrhoea  and  dysentery  was  doubtless  due  to  this  property.  Quite  recently 
it  has  been  similarly  employed.  Propolis , a resinous  matter  with  which  bees  cover  the 
bottom  of  their  hives,  has  been  used  for  the  same  purpose.  Until  the  introduction  of 
caoutchouc,  wax  was  generally  employed  for  preparing  impermeable  tissues,  and  in  the 
treatment  of  rheumatism , gout , neuralgia , and  other  local  diseases  to  protect  the  affected 
parts  from  cold  and  favor  cutaneous  transpiration. 

CERATA. — Cerates. 

Cerats , Cereoles , Elseocereoles , Fr. ; Cerate , Wachssalben , G. 

The  term  cerate  is  applied  to  a class  of  unctuous  preparations  which  in  consistence  are 
about  intermediate  between  ointments  and  plasters,  sufficiently  soft  to  be  spread  at  the 
ordinary  temperature,  and  at  the  same  time  firm  enough  to  adhere  to  the  skin  without 
melting.  They  are  composed  of  wax,  united  with  a fatty  or  oleoresinous  substance,  and  to 
obtain  them  of  proper  consistence  2 parts  of  wax  require  about  3 parts  of  fixed  oil,  4 
parts  of  lard,  or  1 part  of  soft  turpentine.  In  preparing  cerates  the  wax  or  resin  should 
be  melted  first  by  the  aid  of  a water-bath  or  otherwise  carefully-regulated  heat.  When 
thoroughly  melted,  the  warm  oil  or  lard  should  be  added  in  quantities  small  enough  not 


CERA  TUM.—CERA  TUM  CA  MPIIOR/E. 


433 


to  congeal  the  melted  portion,  and  after  all  the  ingredients  have  been  liquefied  and  the 
vessel  removed  from  the  fire  the  mass  should  be  well  stirred  or  beaten  with  a spatula,  to 
prevent  the  partial  separation  of  the  least  fusible  substances  and  ensure  the  perfect 
homogeneousness  of  the  preparation.  It  is  well  to  continue  this  manipulation  until  the 
temperature  has  been  reduced  to  that  of  the  room,  but  artificial  refrigeration  should  not 
be  applied  until  after  the  mass  has  thickened,  and  then  only  if  vigorous  stirring  (or,  better 
still,  trituration)  is  kept  up.  With  this  in  view,  the  soft  cerate  may  be  transferred  to  a 
mortar  previously  warmed  by  hot  water,  or  the  whole  process  may  be  completed  in  a well- 
enamelled  iron  vessel  with  a rounded  bottom  if  a pestle  fitting  the  curve  of  the  latter  be 
used.  Straining  is  best  avoided,  and  all  the  materials  should  therefore  be  free  from  dust 
and  other  foreign  bodies.  Powders,  cantharides  excepted,  are  gradually  added  while  the 
cerate  is  merely  soft  enough  to  permit  the  whole  to  be  uniformly  mixed,  and  liquids 
should  be  previously  warmed  to  40°  or  45°  C.  (about  110°  F.).  In  dispensing  cerates 
with  extracts  the  latter  should  be  previously  rubbed  with  water  in  a warm  mortar  to  a 
uniform  thin  paste,  which  should  then  be  mixed  with  the  cerate,  added  in  small  portions 
until  the  extract  has  been  thoroughly  incorporated  ; the  remaining  cerate  may  then  be 
added  in  larger  quantities. 

Cerates  should  be  kept  in  a cool  place,  where  the  temperature  is  not  likely  to  rise  much 
above  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  but  even  then  those  made  with  white  wax,  owing  to  its  incipient 
rancidity,  are  liable  to  become  rancid,  while  such  as  contain  yellow  wax  keep  unaltered 
for  a much  longer  period.  Some  cerates,  which  are  sufficiently  firm,  may  be  conveniently 
kept  and  dispensed  in  the  form  of  square  cakes,  which  are  easily  made  by  pouring  the 
fused  and  nearly  cool  cerate  into  square  moulds  made  of  oiled  or  paraffin-paper  and  placed 
upon  a flat  slab.  After  the  cerate  has  solidified  it  is  without  difficulty  removed  from  the 
paper  and  cut  into  smaller  pieces  of  any  desired  size  or  weight. 

The  name  steatina,  steatins,  has  been  suggested  by  Mielck  (1881)  for  a class  of  prep- 
arations which  are  of  about  the  same  consistence  as  cerates,  but  the  base  of  which  is 
suet,  combined  with  either  expressed  oil  of  nutmeg,  with  wax,  or  with  lead  plaster 
deprived  of  glycerin  and  water. 

CERATUM,  U.  S. — Cerate. 

Ceratum  simplex , U.  S.  1850 ; Ceratum  adipis , U.  S.  1860  ; Unguentum  cereum , F.  G. 
— Simple  (lard)  cerate , E. ; Cerat  simple , Fr. ; Einf aches  Cerat , Wachssalbe,  G. 

Preparation. — White  Wax  300  Gm.;  Lard  700  Gm. ; to  make  1000  Gm.  Melt 
them  together,  and  stir  the  mixture  constantly  until  cool. — U.  S. 

If  3 ozs.  of  white  wax  and  7 ozs.  of  lard  be  used,  the  official  proportions  will  be  pre- 
served. The  simple  cerate  of  the  French  Codex  is  composed  of  1 part  of  white  wax  to 
3 parts  of  expressed  oil  of  almonds,  and  the  wax  ointment,  P.  G.,  of  3 parts  of  yellow 
wax  to  7 parts  of  olive  oil. 

CERATUM  CAMPHORS,  V.  S.— Camphor  Cerate. 

Unguentum  ( Pomatum , F.  Cod.)  camphor atum. — Pommade  camphree,  Fr. ; Kampfer- 
salbe , G. ; Cerata  alcan/orada,  Sp. 

Preparation. — Camphor  Liniment,  100  Gm. ; White  Wax,  300  Gm.;  Lard,  600 
Gm. ; to  make  1000  Gm.  Melt  the  white  wax  and  lard  with  the  aid  of  gentle  heat ; then 
add  the  camphor  liniment  and  stir  the  mixture  occasionally  until  it  has  become  cold. — 

V S. 

If  3 ounces  of  white  wax,  6 ounces  of  lard,  and  1 ounce  of  camphor  liniment  be  used 
in  place  of  the  prescribed  metric  weights,  the  proportions  will  not  he  changed. 

Melt  at  a moderate  heat  white  wax  1 part  and  lard  9 parts ; add  powdered  camphor  3 
parts,  and  stir  until  the  camphor  is  dissolved  and  until  the  ointment  becomes  cool. — 
F.  Cod. 

The  consistence  of  the  camphor  cerate,  U.  S.  P.,  is  softer  than  that  of  most  other 
cerates.  The  camphor  pommade  of  the  French  Codex  contains  12  per  cent,  of  camphor, 
but  the  cerate  of  the  U.  S.  P.  only  2 per  cent. ; it  was  made  so  weak  solely  for  the  pur- 
pose of  preparing  the  ceratum  plumbi  subacetatis  extemporaneously. 

Ceratum  Camphors  Compositum,  N.  F. — Compound  Camphor  Cerate,  Camphor 
Ice. — Take  of  camphor  in  coarse  powder  1£  troyounces,  white  wax  2 troyounces,  castor 
oil  4 troyounces,  spermaceti  7 troyounces,  carbolic  acid,  liquefied  by  warming,  10  min- 
ims, oil  of  bitter  almond  6 minims,  benzoic  acid  60  grains.  Melt  the  wax  and  sperma,- 
28 


434 


CERATUM  CANTHARIDIS. 


ceti  on  a water-bath,  add  the  castor  oil,  and  afterward  the  camphor,  and  continue  heating 
and  stirring  until  the  camphor  is  dissolved.  Withdraw  the  heat,  cover  the  vessel,  and 
when  the  mixture  has  somewhat  cooled  add  the  remaining  ingredients  and  thoroughly 
incorporate  them  by  stirring.  Lastly,  pour  the  cerate  into  suitable  moulds. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  only  active  ingredient  of  this  apparently  superfluous 
preparation  is  camphor.  If  intended  as  an  antipruriginous  application,  it  is  no  better 
than  camphorated  oil.  If  proposed  as  an  anodyne,  it  is  vastly  inferior  to  the  ancient 
opodeldoc,  which,  it  appears  to  us,  should  not  have  been  laid  aside. 

CERATUM  CANTHARIDIS,  U.  ^.-Cantharides  Cerate. 

Emplastrum  cantharidis , Br. ; Emplastrum  vesicans , F.  Cod ; Emplastrum  cantharidum 
ordinarium , P.  G.  ; Emplastrum  epispasticum  s.  vesicatorium. — Blistering  cerate  or  plaster , 

E.  ; Empldtre  de  cantharules , Empldtre  vesicatoire , Fr. ; Spanischfliegen-Pjlasfer,  Blasen- 
pjlaster , G. ; Pomatum  di  cantaridi , It. 

Preparation. — Cantharides  in  No.  60  powder  320  Gm. ; Yellow  Wax  180  Gm.j 
Resin  180  Gm.  ; Lard  220  Gm.  Oil  of  Turpentine  150  Cc. ; to  make  1000  Gm. 
Moisten  the  cantharides  with  the  oil  of  turpentine,  and  set  the  mixture  aside,  well 
covered,  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  add  it  to  the  yellow  wax,  resin,  and  lard,  pre- 
viously melted  and  strained  through  muslin,  and  keep  the  mixture  in  a liquid  condition 
by  means  of  a water-bath,  stirring  occasionally  until  its  weight  has  been  reduced  to  1000 
Gm.  Then  remove  it  from  the  bath  and  stir  it  occasionally  until  it  is  cool. — U S. 

If  avoirdupois  weight  is  more  convenient,  the  following  quantities  should  be  used : 
Cantharides  in  No.  60  powder  4 ounces,  yellow  wax  2?  ounces,  resin  21  ounces,  lard  2f 
ounces,  oil  of  turpentine  2 fluidounces ; to  make  121  av.  ounces. 

Take  of  Cantharides  in  powder  12  ounces;  Yellow  Wax,  Prepared  Suet,  each  71 
ounces ; Prepared  Lard  6 ounces  ; Resin  3 ounces.  Liquefy  the  wax,  suet,  and  the  lard 
together  by  a water-bath,  and  add  the  resin,  previously  melted;  then  introduce  the  can- 
tharides, mix  the  whole  thoroughly,  and  continue  to  stir  the  mixture  while  it  is  allowed 
to  cool. — Br. 

The  object  of  previous  treatment  of  the  cantharides  with  oil  of  turpentine  is  to  facil- 
itate the  subsequent  solution  of  cantharidin  in  the  fats,  as  oil  of  turpentine  is  known  to 
exert  a ready  solvent  effect  upon  the  active  blistering  agent.  The  process  of  the  U.  S. 
Pharmacopoeia  always  ensures  an  effectual  blistering  cerate,  provided  the  cantharides  are 
of  good  quality.  It  is  important  that  the  heat  be  not  raised  above  100°  C.  (212°  F.), 
since  cantharidin  would  volatilize  with  the  watery  vapors  extricated  from  the  powder, 
and,  while  weakening  the  cerate,  vesication  of  the  operator’s  face  and  hands  would  be 
apt  to  occur.  Dragendorff  (1872)  recommended  a process  for  increasing  the  efficacy  of 
the  cerate  by  treating  the  powdered  cantharides  first  with  solution  of  potassa  or  soda, 
heating  the  mixture  in  a water-bath  for  half  an  hour,  supersaturating  with  hydrochloric 
acid,  drying  rapidly  in  a water-bath,  and  powdering  the  residue.  Rother  (1872)  obtained 
by  this  process  an  ineffectual  preparation,  unless  the  powder  was  finally  kept  moist  for 
several  days  with  chloroform  or  oil  of  turpentine,  whereby,  however,  the  activity  of 
cantharides  powder  was  likewise  increased.  II.  G.  Greenish  (1880)  again  recommended 
the  process. 

The  blistering  cerate  of  the  U.  S.  P.  contains  32  per  cent.,  that  of  the  Br.  P.  and 

F.  Cod.  331  per  cent.,  and  that  of  the  P.  G.  25  per  cent,  of  powdered  cantharides. 

Allied  Preparations. — The  following  preparations  are  occasionally  used  : 

Ceratum  extracti  cantharidis,  U.  S.  1880 ; Cerate  of  extract  of  cantharides,  E. ; C£rat 
d’extrait  de  cantharides,  Fr. ; Cantharidenextract-Cerat,  G. — Cantharides,  in  No.  60  powder, 
30  parts  (6  oz.  av.) ; Resin  15  parts  (3  oz.  av.) ; Yellow  Wax  35  parts  (7  oz.  av.) ; Lard  35  parts 
(7  oz.  av.)  ; Alcohol  a sufficient  quantity.  Moisten  the  cantharides  with  18  parts  (3f  oz.  av.  or 
4f  fluidounces)  of  alcohol,  and  pack  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator ; then  gradually  pour  on 
alcohol  until  180  parts  (36  oz.  av.,  or  nearly  2J  pints)  of  percolate  are  obtained,  or  until  the 
cantharides  are  exhausted.  Distil  off  the  alcohol  by  means  of  a water-bath,  transfer  the  residue 
to  a tarred  capsule,  and  evaporate  it  on  a water-bath  until  it  weighs  1 5 parts  (3  oz.  av.).  Add  to 
this  the  resin,  wax,  and  lard,  previously  melted  together,  and  keep  the  whole  at  a temperature 
of  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  for  fifteen  minutes.  Lastly,  strain  the  mixture  through  muslin  and  stir  it 
constantly  until  cool. 

This  was  proposed  by  W.  R.  Warner  (1860).  The  cantharidin  is  completely  extracted  by  the 
alcohol,  and  again  dissolved  from  the  resulting  soft  extract  by  the  lard,  the  solution  in  the  latter 
being  facilitated  by  the  prolonged  digestion.  A quantity  of  blackish  extractive  matter,  insolu- 
ble in  fats,  separates,  and  is  removed  by  straining.  The  finished  cerate  is  of  a yellow  or 
greenish-yellow  color. 


CERATUM  CETACEI. — CERATUM  PLUMB  I SUB  ACE  TATIS. 


435 


Camphorated  cantharides  plastei *,  E. ; Vtsicatoire  camphree,  Fr. — It  is  made  by  diffusing 
upon  the  surface  of  the  spread  cerate  a concentrated  solution  of  camphor  in  ether  or 
chloroform.  As  either  solvent  evaporates  readily,  a thin  film  of  finely-divided  camphor 
is  left  behind. 

Vesicating  cloth  or  taffetas , E. ; Sparadrap  ( Toile , Taffetas)  vesicant , Fr. — Melt  together  100 
parts  each  of  purified  elemi  and  resin,  375  of  yellow  wax,  225  of  basilicon  ointment,  and  40  of 
olive  oil ; add  420  parts  of  finely-powdered  cantharides  and  spread  the  mass  over  waxed  cloth. 
Dubuisson  proposed  a substitute  for  this,  made  by  forming  a thick  solution  of  1 part  of  gelatin 
in  sufficient  water,  adding  4 parts  of  hydro-alcoholic  extract  of  cantharides,  and  applying  three 
layers  of  the  mixture  upon  waxed  cloth,  allowing  each  one  to  dry  before  the  next  is  applied. 

Various  proprietary  articles  of  a similar  nature  are  in  the  market ; but  the  above,  in  addition 
to  blistering-paper  (see  Ciiarta  Epispastica),  will  probably  meet  all  necessities. 

Action  and  Uses. — Cantharides  cerate  forms  the  most  usual  blistering  plaster. 
Its  mode  of  action  and  remedial  application  are  sufficiently  explained  under  Cantharis. 
The  other  preparations  described  are  used,  the  first  under  the  impression  that  it  tends  to 
prevent  strangury  ; and  the  second  because  it  is  convenient  for  applying  to  limited  and 
uneven  surfaces. 

CERATUM  CETACEI,  U.  S. — Spermaceti  Cerate. 

Emplastrum  spermatis  ceti,  Ceratum  labiale  album. — Cerat  de  blanc  de  baleine,  Onguent 
blanc , Fr. ; Walrat-  Cerat,  G.  ; Cerato  de  Bell,  Sp. 

Preparation. — Spermaceti  100  Gm. ; White  Wax  350  Gm. ; Olive  Oil  550  Gm. ; 
to  make  1000  Gm.  Melt  together  the  spermaceti  and  wax  ; then  add  the  olive  oil,  pre- 
viously heated,  and  stir  the  mixture  constantly  until  cool. — U.  S. 

If  1 ounce  of  spermaceti,  31  ounces  of  white  wax,  and  51  ounces  of  olive  oil  be  used, 
the  official  proportions  will  not  be  disturbed. 

It  should  be  white  and  free  from  rancidity.  The  preparation  of  the  P.  G.  1872  was 
similar,  but  firmer,  so  as  to  form  a convenient  application  to  chapped  hands  and  lips.  For 
the  latter  purpose  it  is  usually  colored  red  by  carmine  or  by  previously  steeping  some 
alkanet-root  in  the  oil  and  scenting  it  with  some  volatile  oil. 

The  following  preparations  are  used  for  similar  purposes : 

Ceratum  rosatum,  F.  Cod. — Rose  cerate,  Lip  salve,  F. ; Cerat  a la  rose,  Pommade 
pour  les  levres,  Fr. ; Lippenpomade,  G. — Melt  together  at  a moderate  heat  white  wax  50 
Gm.  and  expressed  oil  of  almond  100  Gm. ; when  partly  cooled  add  carmine  0.5  Gm.  pre- 
viously rubbed  up  with  a little  of  the  oil ; stir  well,  and  finally  add  essential  oil  of  rose 
0.5  Gm. — F.  Cod.  , 

Medicated  cacao-butter. — Melt  together  4 ounces  of  yellow  wax  and  28  ounces  of 
cacao  butter ; add  1 drachm  each  of  balsam  of  Peru  and  benzoic  acid.  Mix  and  pour 
into  moulds  (Ferris  Bringhurst,  1867). 

Action  and  Uses. — Spermaceti  cerate  forms  a very  bland  dressing  for  blisters , 
superficial  abrasions , and  ulcers  after  their  primary  stage.  It  is  less  apt  than  simple  oint- 
ment to  grow  rancid.  Camphor  ice  and  medicated  cacao-butter  are  very  useful  both  in 
preventing  and  in  curing  chilblains. 

CERATUM  PLUMBI  SUBACETATIS,  U.  S.— Cerate  of  Lead  Sub- 
acetate. 

Unguentum  glycerini  plumbi  subacetatis,  Br.  ; Unguentum  plumbi,  P.  G. ; Ceratum  cum 
subacetate  plumbico , F.  Cod. — Goulard's  cerate , Ointment  of  glycerin  of  lead  subacetate, 
E. ; Cerat  de  saturne,  C.  saturne , C.  de  Goulard , Fr. ; Blcisalbe,  Bleicerat,  G. 

Preparation. — Solution  of  Lead  Subacetate  200  Gm. ; Camphor  Cerate  800  Gm. ; to 
make  1000  Gm.  Mix  them  thoroughly.  This  cerate  should  be  freshly  prepared  when 
wanted  for  use. — U.  S. 

Goulard’s  cerate  may  be  conveniently  prepared  by  mixing  120  grains  (100  minims)  of 
solution  of  lead  subacetate  with  one  troyounce  of  camphor  cerate. 

The  preparations  of  the  Br.  and  Germ.  Pharmacopoeias  are  less  liable  to  spoil,  owing 
to  the  entire  absence  of  fat ; the  former  is  made  by  adding  3 parts  of  glycerin  of  lead 
subacetate  to  a previously  melted  mixture  of  4 parts  of  hard  paraffin  and  12  parts  of 
of  soft  paraffin  ; the  latter  consists  of  a mixture  of  2 parts  of  solution  of  lead  subace- 
tate, sp.  gr.  1.240,  and  19  parts  of  paraffin  ointment. 

The  official  formula  will  yield  an  unobjectionable  preparation,  provided  the  camphor 
cerate  is  free  from  rancidity,  but  it  should  never,  to  avoid  deterioration,  be  made  up  in 
large  quantities. 


436 


CERATUM  RESIN2E. — CERE VISIJE  FERMENTTJM. 


Action  and  Uses. — This  cerate  is  astringent  and  protective,  and  is  employed  to 
promote  the  healing  of  suppurating  surfaces,  such  as  excoriations , blisters , ulcers , etc.  It 
is  objectionable  from  its  tendency  to  become  rancid,  and  therefore  irritating;  and  it  must 
he  cautiously  applied  upon  extensive  raw  surfaces,  lest  it  cause  lead-poisoning. 

CERATUM  RESINJE,  TJ.  S. — Resin  Cerate. 

TJnguentum  resinse , Br.  ; Unguentum.  basilicum , P.  G. ; Unguentum  tetrapharmacum. — 
Ointment  of  resin , Basilicon  ointment , E. ; Cerat  de  resine  anglais , Onguent  basilicum,,  Fr.; 
Harzsalbe , Konigssalbe , Zugsalbe,  Gr. 

Preparation. — Resin  350  6m.  ; Yellow  Wax  150  6m.;  Lard  500  Gm. ; to  make 
1000  Gm.  Melt  them  together  at  a moderate  heat,  strain  the  mixture  through  muslin, 
and  allow  it  to  cool  without  stirring. — U.  S. 

If  7 ounces  of  resin,  3 ounces  of  yellow  wax,  and  10  ounces  of  lard  he  melted  together, 
the  official  proportions  will  be  preserved. 

Take  of  Resin  in  coarse  powder  8 ounces;  Yellow  Wax  4 ounces;  Simple  Ointment  16 
ounces ; Almond  oil  2 fluidounces.  Melt  with  a gentle  heat,  strain  the  mixture  while 
hot  through  flannel,  and  stir  constantly  while  it  cools. — Br. 

The  impurities  always  present  in  the  resin  necessitate  the  straining  of  this  and  the  fol- 
lowing cerate.  By  melting  and  straining  the  resin  alone  the  purified  resin  may  be  kept 
on  hand  and  subsequent  straining  avoided.  The  formulae  of  the  French  and  German 
Pharmacopoeias  differ  considerably  from  the  foregoing,  the  former  ordering  black  pitch, 
the  latter  turpentine,  among  the  ingredients. 

Allied  Preparation. — Ceratum  resins  compositum,  U.  S.  1870. — Compound  resin  cerate, 
Deshler’s  salve,  E. — Take  of  resin,  suet,  yellow  wax,  each  12  troy  ounces ; turpentine  6 troy- 
ounces,  flaxseed  oil  7 troyounces.  Melt  them  together,  strain  the  mixture  through  muslin, 
and  stir  it  constantly  until  cool. 

This  cerate,  which  was  recognized  by  the  U.  S.  P.  until  1880,  gradually  becomes  tough  in  con- 
sequence of  the  oxidation  of  the  flaxseed  oil — an  alteration  prevented  by  substituting  for  the 
flaxseed  oil  either  a non-drying  oil  or  paraffin  oil,  as  suggested  by  S.  A.  D.  Sheppard  (1878). 

Action,  and  Uses.  — Resin  cerate  is  one  of  the  most  common  and  useful  of  the 
dressings  employed  for  slowly-healing  and  indolent  sores,  particularly  when  they  have 
followed  a local  shock,  such  as  a burn  or  scald  produces. 

Compound  resin  cerate  is  rendered  more  stimulant  than  resin  cerate  by  the  turpentine 
it  contains,  and  may  be  applied  where  that  preparation  appears  to  act  too  feebly. 

CERATUM  SABINiE.— Savine  Cerate. 

Unguentum  sabinse,  Br. — Ointment  of  savin,  E. ; Cerat  de  sabine , Fr. ; Sadebaum- 
salbe,  G. 

Preparation. — Fluid  Extract  of  Savin  25  parts  (5  oz.) ; Resin  Cerate  90  parts 
(18  oz.).  Melt  the  resin  cerate  by  means  of  a water-bath,  add  the  fluid  extract  of  savin, 
and  continue  the  heat  until  the  alcohol  has  evaporated ; then  remove  the  heat  and  stir 
constantly  until  cool. — U.  S.  1880. 

Take  of  Fresh  Savin  Tops,  bruised,  8 ounces;  Yellow  Wax  3 ounces;  Benzoated  Lard 
16  ounces.  Melt  the  lard  and  the  wax  together  on  a water-bath,  add  the  savin,  and 
digest  for  twenty  minutes.  Then  remove  the  mixture  and  express  through  calico. — Br. 

Of  the  two  preparations,  we  prefer  the  first,  which  was  first  suggested  by  Prof. 
Grahame  (1858),  and  which  contains  all  the  soluble  principles  of  savin.  It  is  difficult  to 
imagine  that  the  brief  digestion  of  the  fresh  savin  ordered  by  the  second  formula  should 
extract  enough  of  the  principles  to  render  the  cerate  equally  efficient.  Both  are,  how- 
ever, in  point  of  elegance,  improvements  over  the  old  method  of  incorporating  the 
powder. 

Action  and  Uses.  - It  is  used  exclusively  as  a stimulant  of  suppurating  surfaces, 
whose  discharges  it  tends  to  increase.  Hence  it  is  applied  to  prolong  the  discharge  from 
issues,  setons,  and  blisters,  and  has  the  advantage  over  preparations  of  cantharides  that  it 
does  not  tend  to  occasion  strangury.  Its  application  produces  a white  pellicle  of  coagu- 
lable  lymph,  which  should  be  from  time  to  time  removed,  lest  the  part  heal  prematurely. 

CEREVISLE  FERMENTUM,  Br.— Beer  Yeast. 

Yeast,  Brewer' s yeast,  E. ; Lev  are  de  biere,  Fr. ; Bierhefe,  G. ; Levadura  de  cerveza , Sp. 

The  ferment  obtained  in  brewing  beer. 


CEREVISIM  FEUMENTUM. 


437 


Origin  and  Description. — It  has  been  previously  stated  (see  Alcohol)  that  alco- 
holic fermentation  depends  upon  the  development  of  a minute  fungoid  vegetable,  Sac- 
charomyces  cerevisise,  Schwann  et  Meyen , which  has  also 
been  named  Torula  (Cryptococcus,  Kutzing , s.  Hormiscium, 

Bail ) cerevisise,  Turpin.  Leuwenhoek  (1680)  noticed 
already,  under  the  microscope,  the  spherical  granules  in 
yeast,  but  their  nature  as  vegetable  organisms  was  not  rec- 
ognized until  after  1820.  Persoon,  Desmazieres,  Kutzing, 
and  others  determined  their  unicellular  condition ; Latour 
observed  their  budding ; and  Schwann  studied  their  devel- 
opment. Besides  the  one  named  above,  Reess  (1870)  has 
distinguished  a number  of  other  forms  which  are  met  with 
in  fermenting  liquids  only  under  certain  conditions.  The 
possible  vegetation  of  these  organisms  in  the  absence  of 
free  oxygen  seems  to  have  been  proven,  but  the  exact  con- 
ditions have  not  been  determined. 

There  are  two  varieties  of  brewer’s  yeast — the  upper  or  top  yeast , and  the  lower  or  bottom 
yeast  ( Oberhefe  and  Unterhefe  of  the  Germans).  The  former  is  the  kind  most  generally 
met  with  in  the  United  States,  and  is  a viscid,  semi-fluid,  frothy  mass  of  a peculiar  odor 
and  bitter  taste,  and  containing  oval  or  globular  microscopic  cells  from  which  smaller 
ones  are  developed  by  budding ; it  appears  upon  the  surface  of  the  fermenting  liquid, 
kept  at  a temperature  ranging  between  about  15°  and  20°  C.  (59°  and  68°  F.).  But 
wort  fermented  with  top  yeast  at  a temperature  near  or  below  10°  C.  (50°  F.)  will  pro- 
duce both  top  and  bottom  yeast,  the  latter  being  solely  reproduced  by  the  fermentation 
from  below  (Untergahrung,  G.)  at  a temperature  of  about  9°  C.  (48°  F.)  and  less.  It 
consists  of  various-sized  cells,  differing  from  those  of  the  top  yeast  in  not  having  any  small 
cells  attached,  and  appears  to  be  reproduced  from  isolated  spores  instead  of  by  budding. 
The  cell-membrane  consists  of  a kind  of  cellulose,  and  encloses  protein  compounds. 

At  a temperature  less  than  5°  C.  (41°  F.)  the  yeast-plant  ceases  to  vegetate,  but  it 
may  be  exposed  to  a cold  of  — 60°  C.  ( — 76°  F.)  without  being  killed.  At  an  elevated 
temperature  of  75°  C.  (167°  F.),  and  above  it  loses  its  vitality  unless  water  be  absent, 
when  it  will  not  be  destroyed  by  a temperature  of  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  or  more.  On  remov- 
ing most  of  the  water  by  pressure  the  dry  yeast  of  commerce  is  obtained,  which  may  be 
kept  in  this  condition  without  material  alteration.  Vienna  yeast  is  the  same  article,  and 
is  stated  by  Dr.  Yigla  (1871)  to  be  made  by  fermenting  a wort  obtained  from  a mixture 
of  maize  and  rye  with  barley  malt,  skimming  off  the  froth,  draining,  and  subjecting  it  to 
pressure.  So-called  artificial  or  patent  yeast  is  either  made  of  flour  dough  with  the  addi- 
tion of  a little  yeast,  or  of  an  infusion  of  hops  to  which  malt  is  subsequently  added. 
Soxhlet  and  Pasteur  (1876)  proved  that  the  only  effect  of  hops,  when  thus  used,  is  to 
impart  some  bitterness  to  the  mass  and  somewhat  delay  the  spoiling  of  the  product. 

When  yeast  is  added  to  a solution  of  pure  sugar,  active  fermentation  takes  place,  the 
yeast  being  gradually  rendered  inert,  but  in  the  presence  of  albuminous  matters  in  the 
saccharine  liquid  the  yeast-plant  is  continually  reproduced  and  augmented. 

Some  investigators  have  assumed  the  presence  in  yeast  of  a peculiar  fermenting  prin- 
ciple, inverting  which  is  prepared  by  Barth  (1878)  by  expressing  the  water  from  yeast, 
drying  it  completely,  heating  for  six  hours  to  between  100°  and  105°  C.  (212°  and 
221°  F.),  macerating  with  water  at  40°  C.  (122°  F.),  and  pouring  the  filtrate  into  six 
times  its  bulk  of  alcohol.  The  precipitate  consists  of  the  ferment  and  albumen,  of  which 
the  latter  is  rendered  insoluble  by  prolonged  treatment  with  strong  alcohol.  Invertin  is 
then  dissolved  by  water,  the  solution  precipitated  by  alcohol,  and  the  precipitate  dried, 
when  it  constitutes  a brown  horn-like  mass,  which  is  reduced  to  powder  with  difficulty. 

Medical  Uses. — As  a topical  remedy  yeast  has  been  spoken  of  under  Cataplasma 
Fermenti.  It  is  generally  described  as  nutritive  and  antiseptic  when  used  internally. 
The  former  it  can  be  only  in  a slight  degree,  from  the  fermented  malt  liquor  which  may 
he  mixed  with  it.  It  is  antiseptic  through  the  carbonic  acid  which  it  evolves.  There 
is  no  doubt  that  it  has  appeared  to  be  serviceable  in  the  typhoid  states  of  febrile  diseases, 
and  that  it  really  is  so  when  applied  as  a dressing  to  gangrenous  and  phagadenic  sores , 
whose  fetor  it  corrects  while  it  stimulates  the  nutritive  processes  in  the  affected  tissues. 
That  its  action  is  stimulant  is  shown  by  the  pain  it  sometimes  causes  and  by  its  pop- 
ular use  in  the  treatment  of  recent  bruises.  Through  its  carbonic  acid  it  must  also  be 
anodyne.  The  power  of  yeast  to  convert  starch  directly  into  alcohol  has  been  invoked  in 
the  treatment  of  diabetes , and  in  a few  cases  has  caused  the  total  disappearance  of  sugar 


438 


CERII  OXALAS. 


from  the  urine.  Some  patients  show  signs  of  alcoholic  intoxication  while  undergoing  this 
treatment.  The  yeast  may  be  given  in  doses  of  Gm.  32  (2  tablespoonfuls)  immediately 
before  meals.  It  has  also  been  used  in  scurvy , purpura , dysentery , infantile  diarrhoea , and 
diphtheria  ( Centralbl.  f Therap .,  vii.  90). 

CERII  OXALAS,  TJ.  S.9  Hr. — Cerium  Oxalate. 

Cerium  oxalicum , Oxalas  cericus. — Oxalate  de  cerium , Fr. ; Oxalsaures  Ceroxydul , 
Ceroxalat,  G. 

Formula  Ce2(C204)3.9H20.  Molecular  weight  704.78. 

Origin. — The  metal  cerium  was  discovered  in  1803  in  a Swedish  mineral  simul- 
taneously by  Klaproth  and  by  Berzelius  and  Hisinger.  The  last-named  chemists  called 
the  mineral  cerite , after  the  planet  Ceres,  then  recently  discovered,  and  the  metal  cerium. 
Mosander  (1839  and  1840)  observed  in  the  supposed  pure  cerium  oxide  the  oxides  of 
;two  other  hitherto  unknown  metals,  which  received  the  names  of  lanthanum  and  didymium. 
The  three  metals  exist  together  as  silicates  in  the  cerite  and  allanite,  thedatter  mineral 
being  found  in  Scandinavia  and  in  the  States  of  New  York  and  Pennsylvania.  Mendel- 
ejeff  (1870)  first  showed  the  atomicity  of  cerium  in  ceric  compounds  to  be  quadrivalent 
= CIV,  and  in  cerous  compounds  trivalent  = Cem ; its  atomic  weight  was  afterward 
determined  to  be  139.9. 

Preparation. — To  obtain  cerium  oxalate  F.  F.  Mayer  (1860)  recommended  the 
following  process : The  powdered  mineral  is  heated  with  concentrated  sulphuric  acid  to 
decompose  the  silicates,  the  dry  mass  ignited,  then  dissolved  in  dilute  nitric  acid,  and 
treated  with  hydrogen  sulphide  to  remove  copper,  etc.  A little  hydrochloric  acid  is 
added  to  prevent  the  precipitation  of  calcium  salt,  and  the  cerite  metals  are  precipitated 
as  oxalates  by  oxalic  acid.  The  precipitate  is  mixed  with  magnesium  carbonate,  the 
mixture  calcined  to  decompose  the  oxalates,  the  residue  dissolved  in  a small  portion  of 
concentrated  nitric  acid,  and  the  solution  thrown  into  a large  quantity  of  water  contain- 
ing about  | per  cent,  of  sulphuric  acid.  Lanthanum  and  didymium  remain  in  solution, 
together  with  the  magnesium  and  a little  cerium,  most  of  which  is  precipitated  as  yellow 
ceric  sulphate ; the  latter  is  dissolved  in  sulphuric  acid  and  reduced  to  cerous  sulphate  by 
sodium  thiosulphate,  when  the  oxalate  may  be  precipitated  by  oxalic  acid.  Ouvrard 
has  succeeded  in  freeing  cerium  entirely  from  lanthanum  and  didymium  by  fusing  the 
nitrates  with  ten  times  their  weight  of  saltpetre. 

Properties  and  Tests. — Cerium  oxalate  is  a white  granular,  inodorous,  and  taste- 
less powder,  permanent  in  the  air,  insoluble  in  the  simple  solvents,  but  soluble  in  diluted 
sulphuric  and  hydrochloric  acids  without  effervescence  (absence  of  carbonates)  ; and  this 
solution  is  not  precipitated  or  colored  by  hydrogen  sulphide  (absence  of  heavy  metals). 
“ When  heated  to  redness  it  is  decomposed,  leaving  a residue  of  reddish-yellow  ceric 
oxide  (a  brown  color  would  indicate  the  presence  of  didymium).  On  boiling  the  salt 
with  potassium  hydroxide  test-solution,  white  cerous  hydroxide  is  left  as  insoluble  residue, 
while  in  the  filtrate,  supersaturated  with  acetic  acid,  calcium  chloride  test-solution  will 
produce  a white  precipitate  insoluble  in  acetic,  but  soluble  in  hydrochloric,  acid.  If  the 
yellow  residue  left  after  heating  be  dissolved  in  concentrated  sulphuric  acid,  and  a small 
crystal  of  strychnine  added,  a deep-blue  color  appears,  which  rapidly  changes  to  purple 
and  then  to  red.  From  the  solution  in  diluted  hydrochloric  or  sulphuric  acid  potassium 
hydroxide  test-solution  precipitates  white  cerous  hydroxide,  which  does  not  redissolve  in  an 
excess  of  the  reagent,  and  gradually  turns  yellow  in  contact  with  air.  Ammonium  car- 
bonate test-solution  precipitates  white  cerous  carbonate,  which  is  somewhat  soluble  in  an 
excess  of  the  reagent.  If  0.1  Gm.  of  cerium  oxalate  be  dissolved  in  1 Cc.  of  sulphuric 
acid,  and  2 Cc.  of  potassium  sulphate  test-solution  be  added,  small,  colorless  crystals  of 
cerium  potassium  sulphate  will  be  deposited  after  some  time.  On  boiling  the  salt  with 
potassium  hydroxide  test-solution  and  filtering,  no  precipitate  should  be  produced  in  the 
filtrate  either  by  ammonium  chloride  test-solution  (absence  of  aluminum)  or  by  ammo- 
nium sulphide  test-solution  (absence  of  zinc}.” — U iS.  When  incinerated  10  grains 
lose  5.2  grains  in  weight. — Br. 

Other  Salts  of  Cerium. — Cerii  carbonas,  Ce2(C03)3.9H20  (mol.  weight  620.99),  is  prepared  by 
precipitating  cerous  sulphate  (see  above)  with  ammonium  carbonate.  The  white  flocculent  pre- 
cipitate changes  to  scales  of  a silvery  lustre,  which  are  insoluble  in  water  and  contain  52.4  per 
cent,  of  cerous  oxide  and  26.2  per  cent,  of  water  of  crystallizatiou. 

Cerii  bromidum.  On  dissolving  cerous  carbonate  in  hydrobromic  acid  and  evaporating  the 
solution,  Bullock  (1871)  obtained  a chocolate-colored,  sweet,  styptic  mass  which  is  freely  soluble 
in  alcohol,  but  leaves  an  insoluble  residue  of  cerous  compound  on  treatment  with  water.  Cerium 


CETACEUM. 


439 


chloride  and  iodide  are  likewise  readily  decomposed,  the  former  becoming  yellow,  the  latter 
brown,  on  exposure  to  the  air. 

Cerii  nitras,  Ce(N03)3.6H20  (mol.  weight  433.51).  It  is  conveniently  made  by  the  mutual 
decomposition  of  cerous  sulphate  and  barium  nitrate,  and  filtering  the  cerous  nitrate  from  the 
insoluble  barium  sulphate.  The  salt  is  very  deliquescent,  crystallizes  in  colorless  prisms  or  scales, 
contains  37.9  per  cent,  of  cerous  oxide,  and  is  freely  soluble  in  water  and  alcohol. 

Action  and  Uses. — Oxalate  of  cerium  was  presumed  to  be  a sedative  of  dis- 
ordered nervous  action,  because  it  seemed  to  be  an  efficient  remedy  for  the  vomiting  of 
pregnancy.  Valerianate  of  cerium  has  been  successfully  employed  by  Blondeau  for  the 
same  disorder  (Bull,  de  Soc.  de.  Therapy  1884,  p.  59).  It  has  less  frequently  been  used 
for  vomiting  due  to  irritable  conditions  of  the  stomach  itself.  This  statement  has  been 
amply  confirmed  by  general  experience  since  it  was  first  made.  In  proportion  as  vomit- 
ing is  of  reflex  origin  it  is  under  the  control  of  this  medicine.  This  explanation  is  sug- 
gested also  by  its  alleged  efficacy  in  sea-sickness.  Gardner,  and  also  Waldron  (Med. 
Record , xxxiii.  608,  704)  found  that  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.6-1.20  (10  to  20  grs)  it 
controlled  the  vomiting.  It  is  far  less  efficient,  or  fails  altogether,  when  the  symptom 
is  the  result  of  material  gastric  disease,  such  as  simple  or  cancerous  ulcer,  or  the  wast- 
ing of  the  mucous  membrane  which  sometimes  causes  habitual  vomiting  in  advanced 
phthisis.  Many  cases  designated  as  “ dyspepsia  ” present  material  lesions  of  the  stomach, 
and  in  these  oxalate  of  cerium  is  as  useless  as  bismuth  is  useful ; the  one  generally  fails, 
the  other  usually  succeeds,  in  relieving  the  irritability  of  the  organ.  Some  have  even 
attributed  to  it  curative  virtues  in  epilepsy  and  chorea,  but  experience  has  not  confirmed 
these  statements.  In  1880  (Med.  Record , xvii.  492,  664)  attention  was  drawn  to  this 
preparation  as  an  efficient  palliative  of  the  cough  of  phthisis.  It  was  represented,  how- 
ever, to  be  by  no  means  uniform  in  its  effects,  and  as  soon  losing  its  primary  control 
over  the  symptom.  It  was  thought  to  have  over  other  cough  medicines  the  advantage 
of  not  deranging  the  digestion.  It  was  administered  in  10-grain,  and  even  in  20-grain, 
doses,  without  injury,  and  some  specimens  of  it  were  found  to  be  quite  inert.  It  has 
also  been  used  in  chronic  bronchitis  or  asthma , in  neither  of  which  can  it  be  recommended. 
It  may  be  prescribed  in  doses  of  from  Gm.  0.05-0.20  (gr.  j — iv)  three  times  a day,  but 
if  these  doses  prove  inoperative  they  may  be  increased  even  to  twice  or  thrice  as  much. 
It  may  be  given  in  pill  or  in  powder,  the  latter  being  preferable.  Simpson,  who  first 
used  the  preparations  of  cerium  in  medicine,  regarded  the  oxalate  as  “ almost  a specific 
in  choreaf  and  the  nitrate  as  a nervine  tonic  “ useful  in  chronic  intestinal  eruption,  irri- 
table dyspepsia  with  gastrodynia  and  pyrosis,  and  chronic  vomiting  generally,  as  well  as 
in  that  of  pregnancy.  The  dose  is  the  same  as  that  of  the  oxalate.” 

CETACEUM,  U.  S.,  Br.,  B.  G.— Spermaceti. 

Spermaceti. — Spermaceti , Fr.,  G. ; Blanc  de  baleine , Cetine , Ambre  blanc , Fr.;  Walrat , G.; 
Cetina , Bianco  di  balena , It. ; Esperma  de  ballena, , Sp. 

Nearly  pure  cetin,  obtained  from  the  head  of  the  sperm  whale,  Physeter  macrocephalus, 
Linne. 

Class  Mammalia.  Order  Cetacea.  Family  Physeteridac. 

Origin. — The  sperm  whale,  or  great-headed  cachalot,  is  principally  met  with  in  the 
Pacific  and  Indian  Oceans  and  the  seas  of  Australia.  It  is  15  to  21  M.  (50  to  70  feet) 
long,  with  a head  fully  one-third  of  its  entire  length  and  correspondingly  thick.  Anterior 
to  the  cranium  the  upper  jaw  has  a large  cavity  containing  an  oily  liquid,  which  is 
removed  with  buckets  soon  after  the  animal  has  been  killed,  and  then  congeals  into  a yel- 
low mass.  This  is  drained  in  suitable  bags,  and  then  strongly  expressed  to  remove  the 
oil ; the  pressed  cake  is  purified  by  melting  it  in  water,  skimming  off  the  impurities, 
boiling  with  weak  potassa  solution,  and  washing  with  water ; it  is  finally  allowed  to  con- 
geal. 

Description. — Spermaceti  is  in  white,  translucent,  scaly-crystalline  masses  somewhat 
unctuous  to  the  touch,  of  a slight  fatty  odor,  a mild  bland  taste,  a laminated  pearly  frac- 
ture, and  of  a neutral  reaction.  Its  specific  gravity  is  0.943  (0.945,  U.  S.)  at  15°  C. 
(59°  F.),  melts  near  50°  C.  (122°  F.)  (between  50°  and  54°  C.,  P.  G.)  to  a clear  and 
nearly  colorless  liquid,  and  congeals  at  about  45°  C.  (113°  F.).  It  contains  variable  but 
small  quantities  of  oil,  which  causes  spermaceti  to  become  yellowish  on  exposure  to  air 
and  to  acquire  a rancid  odor  and  acid  reaction.  It  is  insoluble  in  water  and  nearly  so 
in  cold  alcohol,  is  slightly  soluble  in  cold  benzin  and  benzene,  but  dissolves  in  chloro- 
form, ether,  carbon  disulphide,  warm  methyl  and  ethyl  alcohol,  and  in  fixed  and  volatile 
oils.  On  dry  distillation  an  oily  liquid,  a solid  fatty  compound,  and  various  gases  and 


440 


CETRARIA. 


volatile  acids  are  obtained.  Spermaceti  is  readily  inflammable,  and  burns  with  a bright 
somewhat  sooty  flame. 

Spermaceti  oil  is  yellow,  has  an  unpleasant  odor,  a density  of  .910,  remains  liquid  at 
— 18°  C.  ( — 0.4°  F.),  and  is  difficult  to  saponify. 

Constituents. — When  repeatedly  recrystallized  from  boiling  alcohol  the  fat  is 
removed  and  Chevreuil’s  cetin  is  obtained,  which  crystallizes  in  soft  white  pearly  scales, 
melts  between  50.5°  and  53.5°  C.  (123°  and  128.3°  F.),  and  is  slowly  decomposed  by 
aqueous  solution  of  potassa,  but  readily  saponified  on  fusion  with  potassium  hydroxide  or 
on  boiling  with  its  alcoholic  solution.  It  consists  mainly  of  cetyl  palmitate,  C16H33.C16H31.02, 
which  melts  between  54.5°  and  55°  C.  (130°  and  131°  F.),  and  yields  on  saponification 
palmitic  acid  and  cetyl  alcohol,  or  ethal , C16H340.  Heintz  (1854)  obtained  also  small 
quantities  of  myristic,  lauric,  and  stearic  acids,  and  of  the  alcohols  methal,  ChH30O,  and 
stethal,  Cj8H380.  When  boiled  with  nitric  acid  spermaceti  is  slowly  oxidized,  oenanthylic, 
succinic,  and  other  acids  being  found  among  the  products. 

Impurities  and  Adulterations. — Rancid  spermaceti  may  be  restored  by  boiling 
it  with  a weak  solution  of  potassa,  and  afterward  with  water.  The  admixture  of  fats 
deprives  it  of  its  pearly  lustre.  “ 1 part  of  spermaceti  should  be  completely  dissolved 
by  50  parts  of  boiling  alcohol  spec.  grav.  .832  (absence  of  fats)  ; after  cooling  the  solu- 
tion and  filtering  from  the  crystalline  mass  the  filtrate  should  not  have  an  acid  reaction, 
and  should  yield  at  most  a slight  precipitate  on  the  addition  of  water  (absence  of  fatty 
acids).” — P.  G.  “ On  boiling  1 Gm.  spermaceti  with  1 Gm.  exsiccated  sodium  carbonate 
and  50  Cc.  alcohol,  the  cold  filtrate,  on  being  acidulated  with  acetic  acid,  should  merely 
become  turbid,  but  should  not  afford  a precipitate  (absence  of  stearic  acid).” — U.  S.,  P.  G. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparations. — When  needed  in  the  form  of  powder,  sperma- 
ceti is  triturated  in  a mortar,  a little  alcohol  being  added  from  time  to  time;  or,  better 
still,  it  is  fused,  and  then  well  triturated  until  cold. 

Cetaceum  saccharatum  s.  PRiEPARATUM. — Prepared  or  saccharated  spermaceti,  E. ; 
Blanc  de  baleine  sacchare,  Fr. ; Walratzucker,  G. — Spermaceti  1 part  and  white  sugar  3 
parts  are  rubbed  together  to  a very  fine  powder. 

Action  and  Uses.— Spermaceti,  like  other  fatty  substances,  is  a lenitive  and  pro- 
tective. In  the  form  of  a fine  powder  and  mixed  with  sugar  (1  part  to  3),  it  is  a pop- 
ular and  useful  remedy  for  commencing  sore  throat  and  catarrhal  inflammation  of  the 
air-passages.  Alvine  and  urinary  irritations  are  also  reputed  to  be  benefited  by  its  use. 
For  these  affections  it  is  best  administered  in  emulsion  with  the  yolk  of  egg  or  with 
almond  oil. 


CETRARIA,  U.  S.,  JBr . — Cetraria. 

Lichen  Islandicus , P.  A.,  P.  G. — Iceland  moss , E. ; Lichen  ( Mousse ) d'  Island e,  Fr.  Cod. ; 
Isldndisches  Moos , Islandische  Flechte , Lungenmoos , G. ; Liquen  islandica,  Sp. 

Cetraria  islandica,  Acharius , s.  Lichen  islandicus,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med. 
Plants,  302. 

Mat.  Ord. — Lichenes,  Cetrariei. 

Origin. — -The  plant  is  indigenous  to  the  northern  hemisphere ; in  its  southern  limits 
it  is  found  in  mountainous  regions,  and  farther  north  in  the  plains.  In  North  America  it 
is  met  with  southward  to  the  mountains  of  North  Carolina,  north- 
ward throughout  British  America,  and  westward  to  the  Rocky 
Mountains  as  far  south  as  Colorado  ; in  Europe  it  grows  as  far 
south  as  Spain  and  Italy,  and  in  Asia  throughout  Siberia  and  in 
the  Himalaya  Mountains ; it  is  plentiful  in  Iceland,  from  which 
island  its  name  is  derived. 

Description. — It  is  from  5 to  10  Cm.  (2-4  inches)  high, 
foliaceous,  irregularly  branched,  with  smooth  somewhat  chan- 
nelled, nearly  linear,  obtuse,  toothed,  and  ciliate  lobes ; the  upper 
surface  is  greenish-gray  or  olive-brown  and  toward  the  base  red; 
lower  surface  whitish,  with  depressed  spots ; the  apothecia  or  so- 
called  fruits,  when  present,  are  situate  near  the  margin,  round  or 
oval,  chestnut-brown,  and  flattish  with  an  elevated  margin.  When 
dry  it  is  brittle  and  inodorous,  but  immersed  in  water  it  becomes 
soft,  leathery,  and  cartilaginous,  and  has  a slight  odor  ; its  taste  is 
mucilaginous  and  bitter.  Boiled  with  20  parts  of  water,  it  yields 
a liquid  which  on  cooling  forms  a bitter  jelly  ; and  on  diluting 


Fig.  58. 


Cetraria  islandica. 


CETRARIA. 


441 


this  with  an  equal  weight  of  water  and  adding  alcohol  a flocculent  precipitate  is  obtained, 
which  while  moist  is  colored  blue  by  iodine. 

Impurities , such  as  pine-leaves  and  mosses  and  other  lichens,  are  usually  found  in  the 
commercial  article,  ajid  the  drug  frequently  requires  garbling.  Adulterations  are  not 
likely  to  be  intentional,  but  the  lichen,  as  collected  from  different  localities,  is  apt  to  vary 
somewhat  in  size  and  color  and  in  the  shape  and  width  of  the  divisions. 

Constituents. — Iceland  moss  was  last  analyzed  by  Knop  and  Schnederinann  (1845). 
The  principal  constituent  is  lichenin  or  lichen  starch , C12H20OI0,  which  is  present  to  the 
amount  of  70  per  cent.  It  separates  from  the  decoction  as  a jelly  ; on  washing  this  fre- 
quently with  pure  water,  T.  Berg  (1873)  removed  a carbohydrate  called  isolichenin 
(Errera,  1882),  which  is  colored  blue  by  iodine,  is  precipitated  by  alcohol,  insoluble  in 
ammoniated  copper,  soluble  in  zinc  chloride,  and  is  not  altered  by  boiling  potassa  solu- 
tion. Lichenin  is  not  colored  by  iodine,  is  soluble  in  zinc  chloride  and  in  ammoniated 
copper,  combines  with  potassa,  and  swells  in  cold  water  without  dissolving.  The  bitter 
taste  is  due  to  about  2 per  cent,  of  cetraric  acid  or  cetrarin , C18tl1608,  which  is  contained, 
in  an  uncombined  state,  mainly  in  the  outer  layer  of  the  tissue.  It  forms  colorless  fine 
needles,  nearly  insoluble  in  water,  but  soluble  in  boiling  alcohol  and  alkalies,  and  yields 
with  ammonia  a yellow  very  bitter  solution,  which  on  exposure  turns  brown.  The  other 
constituents  of  Iceland  moss  are  lichen-stearic  acid , C14H2403  (about  1 per  cent.,  soluble  in 
alcohol,  ether,  volatile  oils,  and  fats,  fusible  at  120°  C.),  thallochlor  (a  variety  of  chloro- 
phyll, not  soluble  in  hydrochloric  acid),  fumaric  (formerly  called  lichenic ) and  oxalic  acids , 
sugar,  etc.,  and  16.7  per  cent,  of  cellulose.  The  production  of  alcohol  from  Iceland  moss, 
as  proposed  by  Sten.  Stenberg  (1870),  depends  upon  the  formation  of  glucose  from  lich- 
enin by  boiling  with  a dilute  acid.  Iceland  moss  yields  about  2 per  cent,  of  ash. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparations. — Lichen  islandicus  ab  amaritie  liberatus 
is  Iceland  moss  freed  from  bitterness,  for  use  in  decoction  or  jelly,  by  maceration  in  solu- 
tion of  potassium  carbonate,  and  afterward  well  washing  in  cold  water. 

Gelatina  lichenis  islandici,  Iceland-moss  jelly.  “ Boil  3 parts  of  Iceland  moss  for 
half  an  hour  with  100  parts  of  water,  express,  strain,  and,  after  adding  3 parts  of  white 
sugar,  evaporate  to  10  parts.”  The  French  Codex  adds  about  3 per  cent,  of  orange- 
flower  water. 

Gelatina  lichenis  islandici  saccharata  sicca. — Saccharure  (Gelee  seche)  de 
lichen,  Fr. — 10  parts  of  Iceland  moss  are  deprived  of  bitterness  by  heating  to  boiling 
with  a small  quantity  of  water,  expressing,  and  washing  with  cold  water  (or  as  stated 
above) ; the  residue  is  exhausted  by  boiling  with  water  for  1 hour ; the  decoctions  are 
strained  and  decanted,  mixed  with  10  parts  of  sugar,  evaporated,  dried,  and  powdered. — 
F.  Cod.  It  has  a gray-brown  color. 

Action  and  Uses. — Iceland  moss  is  nutritious,  demulcent,  and  tonic.  The  first 
two  properties  it  owes  to  the  starch  in  its  composition,  the  last  to  its  bitter  principle, 
cetrarin.  It  increases  the  appetite,  promotes  digestion,  and  improves  nutrition.  It  does 
not  excite  the  circulation  nor  constipate,  but  in  excessive  doses  may  occasion  nausea 
and  diarrhoea.  Its  bitterness  is  said  to  be  perceptible  in  the  milk  of  nursing  women 
who  use  it. 

This  medicine  has  been  chiefly  employed  as  a remedy  for  chronic  pulmonary  affections 
attended  with  profuse  expectoration  and  cough  and  with  more  or  less  of  the  other  symp- 
toms belonging  to  consumption.  It  acts  in  these  by  its  nutritious  qualities  in  part,  but 
more  usefully  by  reducing  the  bronchial  secretion,  and  thereby  lessening  both  the  waste 
of  tissue  and  the  fatigue  of  coughing.  The  amount  of  good  which  the  medicine  can 
effect  will  depend  upon  how  far  the  bronchitis , which  it  chiefly  influences,  is  simple.  If 
this  is  accompanied  by  compression  of  the  lung  originating  in  pleurisy,  or  consolidation 
of  the  lung  produced  by  pneumonia  or  by  tubercle,  etc.,  the  influence  of  the  remedy  must 
necessarily  be  subordinate,  or  even  null.  Chronic  diarrhoea  and  dysentery  are  sometimes 
greatly  benefited  by  it.  Robert  found  cetrarin  to  increase  the  richness  of  the  blood,  and 
thereby  quicken  all  the  nutritive  processes.  In  this  manner  it  relieves  constipation  caused 
by  debility.  Iceland  moss  is  usually  administered  in  decoction,  but  an  infusion  is  some- 
times prepared  by  steeping  Gm.  90  (^iij)  of  bruised  cetraria  in  Gm.  750  (f^xxiv)  of 
boiling  water  for  three  hours,  evaporating  the  liquid  with  gentle  heat  to  the  consumption 
of  one-half,  and  adding  Gm.  4 (gr.  lx)  of  extract  of  liquorice.  Of  this  a fluidounce  may 
be  taken  every  three  or  four  hours  in  chronic  bronchitis  with  urgent  cough.  A decoction 
made  with  milk  is  less  bitter,  and  may  be  employed  as  food.  Either  of  the  pharmaceu- 
tical preparations  mentioned  above  will  be  found  convenient.  Cetrarin  has  been  given  in 
doses  Gm.  0.1  (gr.  iss). 


442 


CHA  MJELIRIUM.—CHA  R TJZ. 


CHAMiELIRIUM. — Starwort. 

Blazing  star , Devil's  bit , False  unicorn-root  y E. 

The  rhizome  of  Chamaslirium  (Veratrum,  Linne ) luteum,  Gray , s.  Cham,  carolinianum, 
Walter , s.  Helonias  lutea,  Aiton , s.  Hel.  dioica,  Pursh. 

Nat.  Orel. — Melanthaceae. 

Origin. — The  plant  is  indigenous  to  Canada  and  the  United  States,  where  it  grows  in 
low  grounds  west  to  the  Mississippi.  The  stem  is  about  45  Cm.  (18  inches)  high  ; the 
leaves  are  alternate,  spatulate  below,  lanceolate  above,  smooth  ; and  the  small  whitish 
flowers  are  in  a dense  terminal  raceme,  which  is  rather  slender  on  the  barren  plant,  about 
15  Cm.  (6  inches)  in  length.  It  flowers  in  May  and  June. 

Description. — The  oblique  rhizome  is  about  25  Mm.  (1  inch)  long  and  6 Mm.  (1 
inch)  in  diameter,  somewhat  curved,  of  a dark  gray-brown  color,  closely  annulated  from 
the  leaf-scars,  on  the  upper  side  with  a few  circular  stem-scars,  on  the  lower  side 
with  wiry  rootlets  or  their  scars  in  lines  parallel  with  the  leaf-scars.  The  rhizome  breaks 
with  a nearly  smooth  and  horny  fracture,  and  shows  on  a transverse  section  the  fibro- 
vascular  bundles  crowded  together  near  the  centre,  with  a few  scattered  near  the  surface, 
passing  into  the  rootlets.  The  drug  is  destitute  of  odor  and  has  a strongly  bitter  taste. 
We  have  repeatedly  found  it  as  an  admixture  with  the  commercial  rhizome  of  Aletris, 
from  which  it  is  easily  distinguished. 

Constituents. — Ur.  F.  V.  Greene  (1878)  extracted  from  it  the  bitter  principle,  which 
he  proposed  to  call  chamselirin , and  of  which  over  9 per  cent,  was  obtained.  It  is  pre- 
pared by  evaporating  the  cold  aqueous  infusion  with  magnesia,  washing  the  dry  mass 
with  ether  to  remove  fatty  acid,  and  extracting  with  absolute  alcohol,  concentrating, 
diluting  with  water,  treating  with  animal  charcoal,  and  evaporating.  It  is  a yellowish- 
white  neutral  powder,  freely  soluble  in  water  and  alcohol,  the  solutions  frothing  like  those 
of  saponin,  but  insoluble  in  other  simple  solvents.  With  sulphuric  acid  an  orange  color 
is  produced,  changing  to  crimson,  brown,  green,  and  purple,  after  which  it  fades.  Chamselirin 
is  also  soluble  in  and  colored  reddish  by  strong  hydrochloric  acid,  and  yellowish-brown  by 
Frohde’s  reagent.  It  has  a very  bitter  taste,  and  is  split  by  dilute  acids  into  glucose  and 
a resinous  body,  chamseliretin , which  is  soluble  in  alcohol  and  ether,  insoluble  in  water, 
and  is  colored  brown  by  sulphuric  acid.  The  so-called  helonin  of  the  eclectics  is  the 
hydro-alcoholic  extract  of  the  rhizome. 

Action  and  Uses. — Starwort  is  reputed  to  be  tonic,  diuretic,  and  anthelmintic.  An 
infusion  of  the  rhizome  has  been  found  useful  in  atonic  dyspepsia  and  for  checking 
nausea  and  vomiting.  It  is  also  claimed  by  certain  pseudo-physicians  to  be  a “ uterine 
tonic,”  “removing  abnormal  conditions  and  imparting  tone  to  the  reproductive  organs.” 
“ It  has  been  somewhat  extensively  used  in  the  treatment  of  leucorrhoea,  amenorrhoea, 
and  dysmenorrhoea,  and  likewise  with  a view  of  correcting  the  tendency  to  repeated  mis- 
carriage.” All  of  these  ailments  are  usually  associated  with  dyspepsia,  constipation,  and 
anaemia,  and  have  from  time  immemorial  been  cured  with  bitter  tonics,  and  for  a long 
while  with  iron  and  cinchona.  It  is  incredible  that  a medicine  which  depresses  the  heart 
and  the  nervous  system  should  remove  ailments  that  depend  essentially  upon  the  debility 
of  exhaustion.  An  infusion  of  chamaelirium  may  be  prepared  with  an  ounce  of  the 
rhizome,  Gm.  32  to  Gm.  500  (a  pint)  of  water,  and  given  in  doses  of  a wine  glassful. 

CHARTiE. — Medicated  Papers. 

Papiers  sparadrapiques , Fr. ; Medicamentirte  Papier e,  G. 

This  class  of  preparations  was  introduced  into  the  1880  edition  of  the  United  States 
and  1867  edition  British  Pharmacopoeias ; they  resemble  plasters  spread  upon  non- 
absorbent paper,  the  process  necessarily  varying  with  the  nature  of  the  material.  Simi- 
lar preparations  have  been  long  in  use  on  the  continent  of  Europe ; one  which  enjoys 
considerable  popularity  is — 

Charta  antirheumatica,  s.  antarthritica,  s.  resinosa,  Sparadrapum  antharthriti- 
cum. — Antirheumatic  paper,  E. ; Papier  antirhumatique,  P.  antiarthritique,  Fr.;  Gicht- 
papier,  G. — Melt  together  10  parts  of  resin,  6 parts  each  of  black  pitch  and  turpentine, 
and  4 parts  of  yellow  wax  ; strain  and  spread  upon  paper. — P.  G.  1872.  The  same  prep- 
aration of  the  Belgian  Pharmacopoeia  is  a cerate  containing  1 per  cent,  of  ethereal  extract 
of  mezereon.  The  Papier  au  garou  of  the  French  Codex  is  spread  with  a cerate  con- 
taining 3 per  cent.  (No.  1)  or  4 per  cent.  (No.  2)  of  ethereal  extract  of  mezereon. 

The  process  of  coating  such  papers  is  sufficiently  described  by  the  pharmacopoeial 


CHART  A EPISPASTICA.— CHART  A POTASSII  NIT&ATtS. 


443 


directions.  It  is,  however,  sometimes  convenient  to  spread  certain  cerates  or  plasters 
directly  upon  paper,  which  may  he  accomplished  by  fastening  the  latter  upon  a smooth 
table  by  means  of  thin  iron  ledges  attached  lengthwise  to  the  margin,  then  pouring  the 
melted  and  partly-coaled  material  upon  the  paper  and  spreading  it  rapidly,  using  a warm 
smooth  iron  which  is  long  enough  to  rest  upon  both  ledges ; a very  uniform  and  quite 
thin  coating  may  thereby  be  obtained.  If  the  material  melts  to  a uniform  mass  a flat 
brush  may  be  employed,  and  care  should  be  taken  to  apply  it  in  one  direction  only. 
Should  it  be  desirable  to  render  the  paper  more  impervious,  it  may  be  coated  first  with 
well-boiled  linseed  oil,  and  then  exposed  to  the  air  until  perfectly  dry,  after  which  the 
material  is  applied  in  the  manner  described.  In  most  cases,  however,  the  intention  is  to 
impregnate  the  paper  to  some  extent  with  the  plaster-like  material,  which  is  most  readily 
effected  by  placing  two  sheets  of  the  paper  upon  smooth  sheet  iron,  which  is  kept  warm 
by  means  of  a low  fire  or  of  a sand-bath  ; some  of  the  melted  mass  is  poured  upon  the 
upper  sheet,  and  spread  with  some  pressure  by  means  of  a pad  about  3 inches  in  diameter 
and  formed  of  cotton  or  tow,  which  is  first  covered  with  tin-foil  and  then  with  two  or 
three  layers  of  flannel.  When  the  upper  sheet  has  been  thoroughly  and  uniformly 
impregnated,  it  is  replaced  by  another,  and  this  is  repeated  until  the  desired  quantity 
of  paper  has  been  obtained.  The  lower  sheet  of  paper  is  used  merely  to  protect  the 
others  from  becoming  soiled. 

The  last-described  method  is  followed  in  making  wax  paper,  Charta  cerata , thin,  well- 
sized paper  being  impregnated  with  white  wax.  It  is  very  convenient  for  dispensing 
odorous  substances,  powders  containing  volatile  oil,  etc.,  for  covering  soft  plasters,  and 
for  various  other  purposes.  Paraffin  paper , prepared  in  the  same  way,  is  employed  in  a 
similar  manner. 

Of  an  entirely  different  nature  is  the  potassium  nitrate  paper  which  was  admitted  into 
the  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia  of  1880,  and  which  consists  of  unsized  paper  containing  minute 
crystals  of  potassium  nitrate  uniformly  distributed  through  the  pulp. 

CHARTA  EPISPASTICA,  Br, — Blistering  Paper. 

Charta  cantharidis , U.  S.  1880  ; Charta  vesicatoria. — Cantharides  paper , E.  ; Papier 
vesicant , P.  epispastique , Papier  d vesicatoire  aux  cantharides , Fr. ; Spanischfliegen- 
Papier , GT. 

Preparation. — Take  of  White  Wax  4 ounces;  Spermaceti  II  ounces;  Olive  Oil  2 
fluidounces;  Resin  f ounce;  Canada  Balsam  £ ounce  ; Cantharides,  in  powder,  1 ounce; 
Distilled  Water  6 fluidounces.  Digest  all  the  ingredients,  excepting  the  Canada  balsam, 
in  a water-bath  for  two  hours,  stirring  them  constantly  ; then  strain  and  separate  the 
plaster  from  the  watery  liquid.  Mix  the  Canada  balsam  with  the  plaster  melted  in  a 
shallow  vessel,  and  pass  strips  of  paper  over  the  surface  of  the  hot  liquid,  so  that  one 
surface  of  the  paper  shall  receive  a thin  coating  of  plaster.  It  may  be  convenient  to 
employ  paper  ruled  so  as  to  indicate  divisions,  each  of  which  is  1 square  inch. — Hr. 

White  Wax  8 parts  ; Spermaceti  3 parts;  Olive  Oil  4 parts;  Canada  Turpentine  1 
part;  Cantharides,  in  No.  40  powder,  1 part;  Water  10  parts.  Mix  all  the  substances 
in  a tinned  vessel  and  boil  gently  for  two  hours,  constantly  stirring.  Strain  through  a 
woollen  strainer  without  expressing,  and  by  means  of  a water-bath  keep  the  mixture  in  a 
liquid  state  in  a shallow,  flat-bottomed  vessel  with  an  extended  surface.  Coat  strips  of 
sized  paper  with  the  melted  plaster,  on  one  side  only,  by  passing  them  sucessively  over 
the  surface  of  the  liquid  ; when  dry,  cut  the  strips  into  rectangular  pieces. — U.  S.  1880. 

The  second  formula  is  that  of  the  French  Codex. 

Action  and  Uses. — Cantharides  paper  forms  a neat  and  efficient  blistering  agent, 
and  is  very  convenient  when  the  vesicant  action  is  to  be  accurately  limited,  as  in  blister- 
ing over  nerves  and  veins,  near  the  eye,  etc.  It  is,  however,  less  efficient  than  cantharides 
cerate  when  a full  and  prolonged  vesicant  operation  is  desired.  Before  applying  it  the 
skin  should  be  cleansed  with  warm  soap-and-water. 

CHARTA  POTASSII  NITRATIS,  JJ.  S.— Paper  of  Potassium  Nitrate. 

Charta  nitrata , P.  G. — Saltpetre  paper,  E. ; Papier  nitri,  Fr.  ; Salpeterpapier,  G. ; Carta 

nitrata,  It. 

Preparation. — Potassium  Nitrate  200  Gm. ; Distilled  Water  800  Cc.  Dissolve  the 
potassium  nitrate  in  the  distilled  water.  Immerse  strips  of  white,  unsized  paper  in  the 
solution  and  dry  them.  Preserve  the  paper  in  securely-closed  vessels. — U.  S. 


444 


CHARTA  SIN  A PIS. 


If  4 av.  ozs.  and  75  grains  of  potassium  nitrate  be  dissolved  in  1 pint  of  distilled 
water,  the  solution  will  be  of  the  strength  directed  by  the  Pharmacopoeia,  which  is  very 
nearly  saturated. 

This  is  the  formula  of  the  P.  G.  1872 ; in  the  recent  edition  of  this  work  the  salt  is  to 
be  dissolved  in  5 parts  of  water. 

Ordinary  saltpetre  will  answer  if  the  paper  is  to  be  used  for  moxas,  but  for  the  prep- 
aration of  medicated  cigarettes  potassium  nitrate  free  from  chloride  should  be  used, 
and  the  paper  should  also  be  free  from  chlorine  compounds.  Such  cigarettes  are  either 
made  in  the  same  manner  as  ordinary  cigars,  except  that  stramonium,  belladonna,  hyos- 
cyamus,  or  other  leaves  are  substituted  for  tobacco,  or  the  nitrated  paper  is  impregnated 
with  other  solutions,  or  simply  rolled  into  a thin  tube  having  the  edges  fastened  with  a 
trace  of  gelatin  ; the  substance  whose  smoke  is  to  be  inhaled  is  then  introduced  and  the 
paper  tube  ignited  at  one  end,  when  combustion  without  flame  takes  place.  The  follow- 
ing is  a formula  for  cigarettes  antiasthmatiqv.es  which  is  much  employed  in  France : A 
decoction  is  made  of  5 Gm.  each  of  the  leaves  of  belladona,  stramonium,  digitalis,  and 
sage  with  1000  G-m.  of  water,  and  strained.  75  Gm.  of  potassium  nitrate  and  40  Gm. 
tincture  of  benzoin  are  added,  and  into  this  solution  is  then  introduced,  sheet  by  sheet, 
one  quire  of  red-tinted  absorbent  paper,  the  whole  remaining  in  contact  for  24  hours ; 
after  which  time  the  paper  is  dried  and  cut  into  rectangular  pieces  of  10  by  7 Cm., 
which  are  formed  into  tubes  by  rolling  them  around  a thin  cylinder  about  1 or  1J  Mm. 
in  diameter  and  fastening  the  edge  with  gelatin. 

For  forming  moxas  of  nitrated  paper  it  is  rolled  into  pretty  firm  cylinders  having  a 
diameter  of  about  i inch,  which  are  afterward  cut  into  pieces  of  suitable  lengths. 

Action  and  Uses. — Under  Potassii  Nitras  the  uses  of  this  medicated  paper  are 
described.  It  is  intended  to  be  burned  and  its  fumes  inhaled.  Since  the  investigations 
of  Reichert  on  potassium  nitrite  (Amer.  Jour,  of  Med.  Sci.,  July,  1880,  p.  158)  there  is 
some  reason  to  think  that,  besides  relieving  nervous  asthma,  by  its  irritant  action  on  the 
bronchial  mucous  membrane,  potassium  nitrate  may  be  converted  during  combustion  into 
potassium  nitrite,  which,  like  nitrite  of  amyl,  has  an  anaesthetic  action. 

CHARTA  SINAPIS,  V.  S.,  Br.,  F.  Cod.— Mustard  Paper. 

Charta  sinapisata , P.  G. ; Papier  sinapise , Moutarde  en  feuilles , Fr. ; Sen f papier,  G. ; 
Carta  senapata , It. 

Preparation. — Black  Mustard,  in  No.  60  powder  100  Gm.  (about  31  ozs.) ; Caout- 
chouc, 10  Gm.  (about  155  grains)  ; Benzin,  Carbon  Disulphide,  each. a sufficient  quantity. 
Pack  the  black  mustard  in  a conical  percolator,  and  gradually  pour  benzin  upon  it  until 
the  percolate  ceases  to  produce  a permanent  greasy  stain  upon  blotting  paper.  Remove 
the  powder  from  the  percolator  and  dry  it  by  exposure  to  the  air.  Having  meanwhile 
dissolved  the  caoutchouc  in  a mixture  of  100  Cc.  (about  31  fluidounces)  each  of  benzin 
and  carbon  disulphide,  mix  the  purified  mustard  with  a sufficient  quantity  of  the  solution 
to  produce  a semi-liquid  magma,  and  apply  this,  by  means  of  a suitable  brush,  to  one 
side  of  a piece  of  rather  stiff,  well-sized  paper,  so  as  to  cover  it  completely,  and  then 
allow  the  surface  to  dry.  A surface  of  sixty  square  centimeters  should  contain  about  4 
Gm.  of  black  mustard  deprived  of  oil.  Before  it  is  applied  to  the  skin  mustard  paper 
should  be  dipped  in  warm  water  for  about  fifteen  seconds. 

Take  of  Mustard  (black  and  white),  in  powder,  1 ounce ; Solution  of  Gutta-percha  2 
fluidounces  or  a sufficiency.  Mix  the  mustard  with  gutta-percha  solution  so  as  to  form  a 
semi-fluid  mixture,  and  having  poured  this  into  a shallow  flat-bottomed  vessel,  such  as  a 
dinner-plate,  pass  strips  of  cartridge-paper  over  its  surface,  so  that  one  side  of  the  paper 
shall  receive  a thin  coating  of  the  mixture.  Then  lay  the  paper  on  a table  with  the 
coated  side  upward,  and  let  it  remain  exposed  to  the  air  until  the  coating  has  hardened. 
Before  being  applied  to  the  skin  let  the  mustard  paper  be  immersed  for  a few  seconds  in 
tepid  water. — Br. 

The  mustard,  previous  to  powdering,  should  be  deprived  of  most  of  its  fixed  oil  by 
pressure,  or  the  powdered  mustard  may,  with  the  same  end  in  view,  be  treated  with  ben- 
zin, as  above  directed,  or  with  carbon  disulphide.  Rigollot  (1867),  who  introduced  this 
preparation,  already  called  attention  to  the  removal  of  the  oil  to  prevent  rancidity,  and 
gave  preference  to  a solution  of  caoutchouc  as  the  adhesive  agent.  Hager  (1867) 
regarded  a solution  of  resin  as  equally  useful,  and  recommended  the  paper  to  be  first 
covered  with  the  solution,  and  the  powder  to  be  sifted  upon  the  adhesive  layer  and 
pressed,  preferably  by  passing  between  cylinders  suitably  adjusted  so  as  to  make  the 


CHELID  ONIUM. 


445 


stratum  uniform  and  the  surface  smooth.  Following  the  pharmacopoeial  directions,  by 
spreading  the  soft  mixture  upon  paper  a layer  more  uniform  in  thickness  is  obtained  than 
by  merely  passing  it  over  the  surface  of  the  former.  If  the  paper  has  been  properly 
prepared  the  mustard  will  adhere  well  without  peeling  off  on  bending. 

Action  and  Uses. — Mustard  paper  forms  a very  convenient  means  of  obtaining  the 
effects  of  a sinapism.  Before  being  applied  it  should  be  immersed  for  a few  seconds  in 
warm  (not  hot)  water. 

CHELIDONIUM,  77.  S.— Chelidonium. 

Herbci  chelidonii. — Celandine , Tetter  wort,  E. ; Chelidoine , Herbe  a V hirondelle,  Fr.  ; 
Scholl  kraut,  G. ; Celidonia  mayor , Sp. 

The  herb  of  Chelidonium  majus,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Papaveraceae. 

Origin. — A perennial  herb  indigenous  to  Europe  and  introduced  on  this  continent. 
It  grows  in  waste  places,  and  flowers  from  May  to  September. 

Description. — The  root  is  several-headed,  fusiform,  about  15  Mm.  (|  inch)  in  diam- 
eter, branching,  somewhat  scaly,  and  of  a red-brown  color  externally,  deeply  wrinkled, 
and  internally  whitish.  The  stem  is  30,  60,  or  90  Cm.  (1,  2,  or  3 feet)  high,  light- 
green,  hairy,  obtusely  angled,  with  thickened  joints,  brittle  and  branching  ; the  leaves  are 
15  or  20  Cm.  (6  or  8 inches)  long,  and  petiolate,  the  upper  ones  sliort-petiolate  or  sessile, 
alternate,  oblong  or  oval  in  outline,  lyrately  pinnatifid  or  pinnate,  the  terminal  segment 
obovate  and  mostly  three-lobed,  the  others  ovate,  cut-toothed,  or  lobed,  obtuse,  somewhat 
hairy,  light-green  above  and  glaucous  underneath.  The  flowers  are  in  small  four-  to  eight- 
rayed  auxiliary  umbels  on  long  peduncles,  have  a calyx  of  two  caducous  sepals,  four 
obovate  yellow  petals,  about  twenty  stamens,  and  produce  long  linear  one-celled  and  two- 
valved  capsules  containing  many  crested  seeds.  All  parts  of  the  plant  contain  a bright 
saffron-colored  milk-juice.  In  the  fresh  state  the  odor  is  rather  unpleasant,  disappearing 
almost  completely  on  drying ; the  taste  is  bitter  and  acrid.  The  herb  should  be  gathered 
when  it  begins  to  flower. 

Constituents. — Probst  (1838),  and  shortly  afterward  Polex,  isolated  from  celandine 
two  alkaloids,  chelidonine  and  chelerythrine  or  pyrrhopine  ; the  latter  Probst  (1840)  declared 
to  be  identical  with  sanguinarine,  which  was  proven  by  Shiel  (1855).  Chelidonine, 
C19H17N303,  is  separated  from  chelerythrine  by  ether,  in  which  it  is  insoluble ; it  crystal- 
lizes in  colorless  shining  plates,  has  a bitter,  afterward  acrid  taste,  and  yields  with  acids 
colorless  salts  having  an  acid  reaction  and  a strongly  bitter  taste.  Probst  isolated  also 
chelidoxanihin,  which  crystallizes  in  small  yellow  needles,  has  a bitter  taste,  is  insoluble  in 
ether,  sparingly  soluble  in  alcohol,  and  freely  soluble  in  hot  water ; it  is  not  altered  by 
acids  or  alkalies.  E.  Schmidt  (1890)  isolated  from  the  raw  alkaloids  of  commerce, 
besides  the  two  mentioned  above,  also  a-  and  /3- chelidonine  and  protopine.  The  last 
alkaloid  is  said  to  be  identical  with  protopine  of  sanguinaria  and  opium.  The  alkaloids 
are  combined  with  malic  and  ehelidonic  acid,  C7H406  (Lerch,  1846).  The  latter  is  slightly 
soluble  in  cold  water  and  alcohol,  crystallizes  from  hot  water  in  colorless  silky  needles 
having  a strongly  acid  taste  and  becoming  opaque  on  exposure,  is  bibasic,  decomposes 
carbonates,  dissolves  metallic  iron  and  zinc,  and  yields  white-lead  salts  insoluble  in 
water  and  acetic  acid.  When  boiled  with  an  alkali,  acetone  and  oxalic  acid  are  produced. 
By  an  excess  of  cold  alkali  it  is  converted  into  a yellow  acid  yielding  yellow  lead  salts 
and  red  ferric  salts  (Lieben  and  Haitinger,  1873) ; this  new  acid  is  doubtless  identical 
with  Z wenger’s  (1860)  chelidoninic  acid , which  was  regarded  as  succinic  acid  by  Walz 
(1860).  The  other  constituents  are  those  of  common  occurrence — gum,  extractive, 
albumen,  chlorophyll,  etc. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparations. — Extractum  chelidonii.  The  expressed 
juice  is  freed  from  albumen  by  heating  to  80°  C.  (176°  F.),  evaporated  to  a small  bulk, 
mixed  with  an  equal  weight  of  alcohol,  strained  from  the  gummy  precipitate,  and  the  fil- 
trate evaporated  to  the  proper  consistence. — P.  G.  1872.  It  has  a dark-brown  color. 

Allied  Plants. — Glaucium  luteum,  Scopoli , s.  Chelidonium  Glaucium,  Linnt. — Horn  poppy, 
E. ; Pavot  cornu,  Fr. : Hornmohn,  G. — A biennial  plant,  a native  of  Europe  and  to  some  extent 
naturalized  in  the  United  States.  It  grows  mainly  near  the  sea-coast,  has  pale-green,  glaucous, 
clasping  pinnatifid  or  sinuate  toothed  leaves,  yellow  flowers,  and  linear  capsules  which  are  beset 
with  numerous  short  projections.  It  is  less  acrid  than  celandine;  the  juice,  particularly  of  the 
root,  is  saffron-yellow,  and  contains,  besides  sanguinarine,  the  white  alkaloids  glaucine  and  glau- 
copicrine ; the  former  is  in  the  herb,  the  latter  in  the  root.  Glaucium  corniculatum,  CurtiuSy 
has  similar  properties ; the  petals  are  scarlet-red,  with  a black  spot  near  the  base. 


446 


CHEL  ONE. — CHEN  OPODI UM. 


Action  and  Uses. — The  yellow  juice  which  exudes  from  this  plant  when  wounded 
was  formerly  employed,  according  to  the  doctrine  of  signatures,  as  a remedy  for  jaundice  ; 
and  it  justified  the  superstition  in  so  far  that  by  violent  purging  it  relieved  cases  of  the 
disease  depending  upon  obstruction  of  the  gall-ducts  with  inspissated  bile.  In  experi- 
ments upon  animals,  and  in  certain  cases  of  poisoning  in  man,  its  effects  were  those  of  a 
violent  local  irritant,  with  a special  narcotic  action  upon  the  nervous  system.  The  fresh 
plant,  as  well  as  the  juice,  irritates  the  skin,  and  the  latter  is  in  popular  use  as  a remedy 
for  warts.  In  many  rural  districts  of  Europe  the  fresh  juice  is  employed  as  a purgative 
in  jaundice , abdominal  dropsy , and  inveterate  intermittent  fever , as  well  as  in  scrofula  and 
chronic  diseases  of  the  skin.  Like  other  drastic  cathartics,  it  is  sometimes  used  as  a 
vermifuge.  When  the  fresh  juice  can  be  obtained  it  is  given  in  doses  of  Gm.  2-3  (gtt. 
xxx-xl),  or  more,  in  sweetened  water  or  in  whey.  An  extract  is  used  in  doses  of  about 
Gm.  0.60  (gr.  x),  and  an  infusion  is  made  with  half  an  ounce  of  the  plant,  Gm.  16  to 
Gm.  500  (a  pint)  of  water. 

Glaucium  luteum  is  stated  by  Cazin  to  be  a narcotic  poison,  and  he  refers  to  a case  in 
which,  having  been  eaten  by  mistake,  it  occasioned  delirium  and  made  all  objects  appear 
yellow.  It  is  said  to  be  used  by  the  peasants  in  Provence  for  the  cure  of  ulcers,  bruises, 
stings,  etc.,  both  in  man  and  animals,  and  to  act  as  an  anodyne  when  applied  to  haemor- 
rhoids and  spasmodic  stricture  of  the  anus.  The  juice,  mixed  with  white  of  egg,  is 
employed  for  the  latter  purposes. 

CHELONE. — Balmony. 

Snakehead , Turtlehead , Shell  flower  ^ E. ; Chelone , Fr.,  G. 

The  herb  of  Chelone  glabra,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Scrophulariaceae. 

Origin. — The  plant  is  perennial,  a native  of  Canada  and  the  United  States  south-west- 
ward to  Texas,  grows  in  wet  places,  and  flowers  from  July  to  September.  The  white  corolla 
is  inflated,  two-lipped,  with  the  upper  lip  arched  and  the  mouth  a little  open  ; hence  the 
botanical  and  some  of  the  popular  names. 

Description. — The  stem  is  2 to  3 feet  (60  to  90  Cm.)  high,  nearly  simple  and  smooth  ; 
the  leaves  are  opposite,  nearly  sessile,  oblong-lanceolate,  pointed,  serrate,  smooth,  and 
shining  above.  The  flowers  are  in  a short,  dense  terminal  spike,  and  have  the  lower  lip 
bearded  in  the  throat  and  the  four  stamens  with  woolly  filaments  and  woolly  heart-shaped 
anthers.  The  plant  is  inodorous  and  has  a decidedly  bitter  taste. 

Constituents. — The  bitter  principle  appears  to  be  soluble  in  alcohol  and  water,  but 
has  not  been  isolated. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  extreme  bitterness  of  the  leaves  of  this  plant  probably 
led  to  its  medicinal  use  by  the  American  aborigines.  It  is  not,  however,  tonic,  but  laxa- 
tive or  purgative  according  to  the  dose  of  it  employed.  Like  other  active  cathartics,  it  is 
reputed  to  “ act  upon  the  liver.”  It  is  sometimes  used  as  a purgative  in  jaundice  and  as 
an  anthelmintic.  The  dose  of  the  powder  is  Gm.  4(5j).  A decoction  made  with  Gm.  60 
to  Gm.  500  (gij  in  Oj)  may  be  given  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  64  (2  fluidounces  ). 

CHENOPODIUM,  77.  S.— Chenopodium. 

Fructus  chenopodii  anthelmintici. — American  worm-seed , E. ; Anserine  vermifuge , 
(pi ante  fleurie) , F.  Cod. ; Amerikanischer  Wurmsamen , G. ; Epazote , Sp. 

The  fruit  of  Chenopodium  ambrosioides,  Linne,  var.  anthelminticum,  Gray;  Ambrina 
anthelmintica,  Spach ; Orthosporum  (Chenopodium,  Linne)  anthelminticum,  R.  Brown. 
Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 216. 

Nat.  Ord. — Chenopodiacese. 

Origin. — The  genus  Chenopodium  is  characterized  by  alternate  leaves  and  bractless 
flowers  with  a five-cleft  calyx,  five  stamens,  two  or  three  styles,  and  bearing  a one-seeded 
utricle  as  fruit.  The  plants  are  frequently  covered  with  a white  mealiness.  The  officinal 
species  is  never  mealy,  but  viscid  glandular.  The  stem  is  angular  and  branched  ; the 
leaves  are  short  petiolate,  oblong  or  ovate,  narrowed  at  both  ends,  remotely  toothed  ; the 
small  greenish  flowers  are  in  dense  and  leafy  spikes  ; the  fruit  is  enclosed  in  the  calyx. 
The  variety  differs  from  the  typical  form  by  having  usually  a perennial  root,  the  leaves 
more  deeply  toothed,  the  lower  being  often  deeply  incised,  and  the  dense  raceme# usually 
leafless.  Both  forms  are  indigenous  to  the  West  Indies,  Central  and  South  America,  and 
have  become  completely  naturalized  in  this  country,  the  typical  form  having  also  estab- 


CHIMAPHILA. 


447 


lished  itself  in  some  portions  of  Europe  and  Southern  Africa.  The  variety  is  cultivated 
in  Maryland  with  a view  of  obtaining  the  oil,  and  is  quite  frequent  in  waste  places  in  the 
Southern  and  in  some  of  the  Middle  States. 

Description. — The  fruit  is  about  inch  (2  Mm.)  in  diameter,  depressed  or  irregular 
globular,  glandular  when  viewed  with  a magnifier,  of  a dull-green  color,  assuming  a 
brownish  tint  on  exposure  ; the  thin,  friable,  hut  not  brittle  integuments  enclose  a vertical 
seed  which  is  lenticular  in  shape,  obtuse  at  the  edge,  brownish-black  and  glossy,  and  has 
the  embryo  strongly  curved  around  the  albumen.  The  fruit  has  a peculiar  aromatic 
somewhat  terebinthinate  odor  and  a bitterish  and  pungent  taste.  The  fruit  of  Chen 
ambrosioides  cannot  be  distinguished  from  the  official,  except  by  its  weaker  and  rather 
pleasanter  odor. 

Constituents. — American  wormseed  has  not  been  analyzed  ; its  medicinal  importance 
is  due  to  volatile  oil  (see  Oleum  Chenopodii),  which  is  the  only  preparation  for  which 
the  fruit  is  used. 

Allied  Species. — Several  European  pharmacopoeias  recognize  the  herb  of  Chen,  ambrosioides, 
Limit,  which  is  known  as  Herba  botryos  mexicanae ; Mexican  tea,  E. ; Ambroisie  du  Mexique, 
The  des  Jesuites,  F.  Cod.;  Mexikanisches  Traubenkraut,  G. ; Te  de  Espana,  Sp. 

Chex.  botrys,  Limit. — Jerusalem  oak,  Feather  geranium,  i?. ; Chenopode  £ grappes,  Fr. ; 
Traubenkraut,  G. — It  is  indigenous  to  Asia  and  Europe,  and  naturalized  to  some  extent  in  North 
America.  It  is  glandular  pubescent,  has  oblong  sinuate-pinnatifid  leaves  and  leafless  cymose 
racemes  of  greenish  flowers,  and  is  strongly  aromatic. 

Chex.  Boxus-Hexricus,  Linnt. — Good  King  Henry,  E. ; Bon  Henry,  Fr. ; Guter  Heinrich, 
G. ; Zeniglo,  Sp. — A European  plant  somewhat  naturalized  here.  It  is  slightly  mealy,  and 
has  triangular  halberd-shaped  leaves  which  have  a mucilaginous  saline  taste. 

Chex.  album,  Limit. — Pigweed,  Lamb’s  quarters,  E. ; Anserine  sauvage,  Fr. ; Weisser  Gan- 
sefuss,  G. — A variable  mealy  annual,  common  in  cultivated  ground.  The  leaves  vary  between 
rhombic-ovate  and  lanceolate,  and  are  angulate-toothed,  the  upper  ones  often  entire.  The  taste 
is  mucilaginous  and  saline. 

Chex.  vulvaria,  Linnt. — Fetid  Goosefoot,  E. ; Stinkender  Gansefuss,  G.  ; Anserine  puante, 
Vulvaire,  F.  Cod. — It  is  indigenous  to  Western  Central  Europe;  the  leaves  are  covered  with  a 
whitish  mealiness,  and  the  plant  smells  strongly  of  fish-brine,  due  to  trimethylamin. 

Action  and  Uses. — All  parts  of  the  plant  producing  worm-seed  possess  anthelmin- 
tic properties,  and  were  long  used  by  the  Southern  negroes  and  others  as  a vermifuge  for 
lumbricoid  worms , the  expressed  juice  and  the  seeds  being  most  commonly  employed. 
These  have  been  supplanted  by  the  oil  (oleum  chenopodii).  The  fresh  expressed  juice 
may  be  given  in  doses  of  Gm.  16  (a  tablespoonful)  two  or  three  times  a day.  A decoc- 
tion made  by  boiling  an  ounce  of  the  leaves,  Gm.  30  in  Gm.  500  (a  pint)  of  milk  or  water 
has  also  been  used.  The  bruised  or  pulverized  seeds  may  be  given  in  an  electuary  in 
doses  of  Gm.  1.30  (20  or  more  grains)  three  times  a day.  Carbonate  of  iron  may  be 
advantageously  added  to  this  preparation.  After  the  anthelmintic  has  been  used  for 
days  a purgative  dose  of  castor  oil  should  be  administered. 

Chenopodium  ambrosioides  and  C.  vulvaria  are  used  in  Europe  for  various  nervous 
derangements,  both  internally  and  topically.  C.  Bonus-Henricus  is  a popular  remedy  in 
Europe  for  many  local  pains.  The  contused  plant,  mixed  with  butter,  is  applied.  C. 
botrys  is  reputed  to  be  a stimulant  expectorant  and  antispasmodic,  and  C.  olidum  to  have 
similar  properties. 


CHIMAPHILA,  U.  S.— Chimaphila. 

Pipsissevoa , Prince's  pine , Wintergreen , E. ; Herbe  de  pyrole  ombellee , Fr. ; Doldenbliithiges 
Harnkraut , Wintergriin , G. 

The  leaves  of  Chimaphila  umbellata,  Nuttall , s.  Chim.  corymbosa,  Pursh , s.  Pyrola 
umbellata,  Limit.  Bigelow,  Med.  Bot.,  ii.  21  ; Woodville,  Med.  Bot.,  v. ; Bentley  and 
Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 165. 

Nat.  Ord. — Ericaceae,  Pyroleae. 

Origin. — The  genus  is  characterized  by  flowers  having  five  petals,  ten  stamens  with 
the  filaments  enlarged  in  the  middle  and  the  anthers  conspicuously  two-horned  ; the  short 
style,  with  the  disk-like  and  five-lobed  stigma,  is  nearly  immersed  in  the  top  of  the  ovary  ; 
the  capsule  is  five-celled  and  many-seeded.  The  officinal  species  is  a low  shrub,  10  to  20 
Cm.  (4  to  8 inches)  high,  bearing  the  leaves  near  the  summit  of  the  stem,  and  a terminal 
peduncle  with  five  or  six  wax-colored  flowers  in  a corymbose  umbel.  It  is  indigenous 
to  North  America,  Northern  Asia,  and  Northern  and  Central  Europe  ; is  found  in  dry 
woods,  and  flowers  in  June  and  July. 


448 


CHINOIDINUM. 


Description. — The  leaves  are  25  to  50  Mm.  (1  to  2 inches)  long,  on  very  short 
petioles,  oblanceolate  and  sharply  serrate  above,  with  the  base  wedge-shaped  and  entire, 
leathery,  upper  side  dark -green  and  glossy,  paler  beneath.  They  are  nearly  inodorous, 
and  have  a sweetish  afterward  astringent  and  bitterish  taste. 

The  closely-allied  Chim.  maculata,  Pursh , spotted  wintergreen  or  pipsissewa,  with 
lanceolate  or  ovate-lanceolate  and  toothed  leaves,  which  are  variegated  with  white  on  the 
upper  surface,  is  indigenous  to  North  America,  and  is  used  like  the  preceding.  The 
leaves  have  the  same  constituents  as  the  Pyrolas.  but  contain  citric  instead  of  malic  acid 
(E.  N.  Smith). 

Constituents. — Besides  the  widely-dilfused  principles  sugar,  gum,  etc.,  S.  Fairbank 
(1860)  found  tannin,  and  obtained  5.24  per  cent,  (of  the  dry  leaves  ?)  of  ash.  The  tannin 
amounts  to  4.15  per  cent.  (Bowman,  1869).  On  distilling  the  stems  with  water,  golden- 
yellow  crystals  of  chimaphilin  are  obtained  in  the  neck  of  the  retort ; these  are  inodorous 
and  tasteless,  slightly  soluble  in  water  and  freely  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  chloroform,  and 
the  fixed  and  volatile  oils.  It  may  also  be  obtained  from  the  tincture  (of  the  leaves 
alone  ?)  made  with  diluted  alcohol  by  agitating  it  with  water.  Zwenger  and  Himmel- 
mann  (1864)  isolated  from  the  leaves  arbutin , which,  together  with  tannin,  was  found  by 
J.  Oxley  (1872)  and  E.  N.  Smith  (1881)  in  several  other  ericaceous  plants.  (See 
Epig^ea,  GtAULTHEria,  and  Uva  Ursi.)  It  does  not  contain  andromedotoxin. 

Allied  Plants. — 1.  Pyrola  rotundifolia,  Linn6;  2.  P.  chlorantha,  Swartz;  and  3.  P. 
elliptica,  Nuttall. — Shinleaf,  Wintergreen,  E. ; Pyrole,  Fr. ; Waldmangold,  G. — These  species 
are  indigenous  to  North  America,  the  first  one  also  to  Europe  and  Asia.  They  have  thin 
rhizomes,  a cluster  of  radical  petiolate  leaves,  and  simple  racemes  of  nodding  wax-like  flowers. 
The  leaves  are  leathery,  orbicular,  and  glossy  (in  1),  short-petiolate,  suborbicular,  and  dull-green 
(in  2),  or  thin,  not  glossy,  elliptic  or  oval-obovate  (in  3)  ; in  odor  and  taste  they  resemble  the 
preceding.  E.  N.  Smith  (1881)  showed  them  to  contain  arbutin,  ericolin,  urson,  tannin,  malic 
acid,  gum,  sugar,  albumen,  and  a trace  of  volatile  oil. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  fresh  bruised  leaves  of  pipsissewa  applied  to  the  skin 
cause  redness,  and  even  vesication.  Internally,  it  is  diuretic,  tonic,  and  astringent,  and, 
like  uva  ursi,  darkens  the  urine  by  means  of  the  tannin  it  contains.  Indeed,  in  all  its 
operations  it  closely  resembles  uva  ursi.  It  was  used  by  the  natives  and  by  the  early 
settlers  of  this  country  for  rheumatism  and  nephritic  disorders.  The  former  disease  in 
the  joints  was  treated  with  fomentations  or  poultices  of  the  leaves,  while  a hot  decoction 
of  them  was  administered  internally,  to  the  production  of  sweating.  In  cases  of  scanty 
or  suppressed  secretion  of  urine  it  was  often  resorted  to,  as  well  as  in  gravel  and  hsema- 
turia  from  various  causes.  The  cure  of  many  cases  of  dropsy  was  attributed  to  its  use, 
and  the  evacuation  of  the  fluid  through  the  kidneys  in  other  cases  depending  upon  incur- 
able organic  lesions.  Physicians  of  sound  judgment  have  testified  to  its  usefulness  in 
scrofula  of  the  glands  and  skin,  both  as  an  internal  remedy  and  as  an  application  to 
scrofulous  ulcers.  In  the  treatment  of  dropsy  and  of  scrofula  the  generally  superior 
efficacy  of  other  medicines  should  not  cause  this  one  to  be  overlooked.  Chimaphila  has 
also  been  prescribed  in  the  treatment  of  intermittent  fever , chronic  diarrhoea , leucorrhoea , 
and  gleet , and  Pyrola  rotundifolia  has  been  similarly  employed.  The  best  form  of  the 
medicine  is  the  decoction  or  the  fluid  extract. 

CHINOIDINUM -Chinoidine. 

Chinioidinum , Chinoidina , Quinoidina. — Quinoidine , E.,  Fr. ; Amorphous  quinine , 
E. ; Quinine  amorphe , Fr. ; Chinoidin,  Gr. 

Preparation. — In  the  preparation  of  quinine  sulphate,  cinchonine,  and  the  other 
alkaloids  from  cinchona-bark  there  remains  finally  a mother-liquor  from  which  crystal- 
lizable  salts  cannot  be  readily  prepared ; this  mother-liquor,  on  being  precipitated  with 
soda,  yields  chinoidine,  which  is  further  purified  by  redissolving  it  in  diluted  hydrochloric 
acid,  precipitating  by  ammonia,  washing,  and  drying.  Blews  (1874)  proposed  to  effect 
the  purification  by  adding  sodium  thiosulphate  to  the  neutralized  solution  in  dilute  sul- 
phuric acid,  then  filtering,  warming,  and  finally  precipitating  by  soda. 

Properties. — Chinoidine  is  met  with  in  commerce  in  cylindrical  rolls  or  in  masses 
having  a more  or  less  deep-brown  (brownish-black  or  almost  black)  color  and  a resin-like 
appearance.  At  a low  temperature  it  is  brittle  and  breaks  with  a glossy  conchoidal 
fracture ; exposed  to  the  summer  heat,  it  gradually  assumes  the  shape  of  the  vessel  in 
which  it  is  kept.  When  heated  it  becomes  plastic,  then  melts,  and  at  a still  higher  heat 
burns  with  a bright  flame.  It  has  only  a slight  taste,  faintly  bitter  on  mastication,  and 


CH IN  OIDIN  UM. 


449 


is  almost  insoluble  in  water ; should  alkaloidal  salts  be  present,  they  would  give  a pre- 
cipitate if  the  aqueous  solution  be  treated  with  ammonia-water.  It  is  freely  soluble  in 
alcohol,  the  solution  showing  an  alkaline  reaction,  dissolves  in  chloroform  and  in  diluted 
acids,  and  also  more  or  less  in  ether  and  benzene.  The  solutions  have  a very  bitter  taste 
and  are  dextrogyre.  The  alcoholic  solution  is  precipitated  by  water;  the  solution  in 
diluted  acids  on  being  treated  with  chlorine-water  in  excess  and  ammonia  assumes  an 
emerald-green  color,  and  with  chlorine-water,  potassium  ferrocyanide,  and  ammonia,  added 
successively,  a red  color  closely  resembling  quinine  in  these  tests. 

Composition. — The  alkaloidal  nature  of  chinoidine  was  first  observed  by  Serturner. 
Subsequently,  Henry  and  Delondre,  Duflos,  Winckler,  and  others  showed  that  this  amor- 
phous mass  still  contained  quinidine  (then  confounded  with  quinine)  and  cinchonine. 
Freed  from  the  crystallizable  alkaloids,  Liebig  regarded  chinoidine  as  quinine  rendered 
amorphous  by  the  influence  of  heat  and  of  chemicals.  Hesse  (1877)  has  shown  that 
aside  from  the  crystallizable  bases  which  may  be  present  chinoidine  has  been  formed  by 
the  condensation  or  polymerization  of  their  molecules. 

Diconchinine , C40H46N4O3,  is  the  principal  constituent  of  chinoidine,  of  barks  containing 
much  quinine,  and  quinidine  ; it  is  amorphous  and  does  not  yield  quinicine,  but  resembles 
the  two  cinchona  alkaloids  in  the  fluorescence  of  the  sulphuric  acid  solution  and  in  its 
behavior  to  chlorine  and  ammonia  (green  coloration).  The  chinoidine  of  barks  yielding 
much  cinchonine  or  cinchonidine  contains  amorphous  dicinchonine , C38H44N402,  which  is 
not  easily  freed  from  diconchinine.  Dihomocinchonine , C38H44N402,  like  diconchinine, 
has  also  a right  rotation. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparations. — Chinoidini  boras,  Chinoidine  borate. 
De  Vrij  (1881)  gives  the  following  directions  : Heat  20  parts  of  chinoidine,  10  parts  of 
boric  acid,  and  200  parts  of  water  to  incipient  boiling  and  filter  through  moist  cotton  ; 
heat  the  clear  liquid  to  boiling,  again  filter  from  the  resinous  matter,  and  repeat  this 
operation  until  no  more  matter  is  separated  on  boiling ; evaporate  to  20  parts,  set  aside 
over  night  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  filter  from  the  boric  acid,  and 
evaporate.  It  forms  brown-yellow  transparent  scales  or  a yellowish  powder,  becomes 
damp  on  exposure,  has  an  alkaline  reaction  and  a bitter  taste,  and  yields  with  3 parts  of 
cold  water  a perfectly  clear  dark-yellow  solution.  Dissolved  in  10  parts  of  water,  the 
solution  becomes  cloudy  on  boiling,  but  clear  again  on  cooling. 

Chinoidini  citras,  Chinoidine  citrate,  made  by  dissolving  chinoidine  in  an 
aqueous  solution  of  citric  acid  and  evaporating,  forms  transparent  red-brown  scales  sol- 
uble in  water. 

Chinoidini  hydrochloras,  Chinoidine  hydrochloride,  is  prepared  by  saturating 
warm  diluted  hydrochloric  acid  with  chinoidine,  filtering,  and  evaporating ; it  is  a yellow 
or  brown  yellow  hygroscopic  powder. 

Chinoidini  tannas,  Chinoidine  Tannate. — Reiher  and  Klamann  give  the  following 
directions  for  this  compound  : 100  Gm.  tincture  of  chinoidine  (see  below)  are  diluted 
with  500  Gm.  of  water  and  a solution  of  50  Gm.  tannin  in  1000  Gm.  of  water,  and  sub- 
sequently a solution  of  ammonium  acetate.  After  ten  hours  the  precipitate  is  washed 
and  dried  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  30°  C.  (86°  F.).  It  forms  a yellowish-brown 
powder,  which  yields  with  water  and  hydrochloric  acid  a dark-yellow  solution.  The  dose 
for  small  children  is  from  0.5  to  1.0  Gm.  (gr.  viij  to  xv). 

Tinctura  chiniodini,  Tincture  of  chinoidine. — Dissolve  10  parts  of  chinoidine  in 
a mixture  of  85  parts  of  alcohol  sp.  gr.  .894  and  5 parts  of  hydrochloric  acid.  It  is 
dark-brown,  transparent  in  thin  layers,  very  bitter,  and  without  distinctive  odor  ; on  mix- 
ing it  with  an  equal  bulk  of  water  and  of  ammonia  the  chinoidine  is  precipitated  and  the 
liquid  becomes  yellowish. — P.  G.  1882. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  preparation  was  first  employed  in  Philadelphia  (1824) 
in  the  treatment  of  intermittent  fever , and  regarded  as  not  less  efficacious  in  the  cure  of 
that  disease  than  quinine,  provided  it  were  given  in  larger  doses.  In  1878,  Vinkhuysen 
( Practitioner , xx.  81)  drew  the  following  conclusions  regarding  it  from  his  own  observa- 
tions: 1.  “The  only  malarious  disease  in  which  chinoidine  cannot  be  employed  in  place 
of  quinine  is  pernicious  fever,  for  it  requires  more  time  to  act  than  quinine.  2.  In  all 
forms  of  pure  malarial  intermittent  fever  it  is  no  less  powerful  than  quinine,  but  acts 
more  slowly.  It  must  therefore  be  given  in  larger  doses  and  at  longer  intervals  before 
the  paroxysm  than  quinine.  3.  It  may  be  taken  during  the  fit  without  exciting  any 
unpleasant  feeling.  4.  It  never  causes  noises  in  the  ears.  5.  Persons  liable  to  suffer 
from  the  toxic  effects  of  quinine  can  take  chinoidine  without  discomfort,  and  yet  obtain 
a similar  therapeutical  result.  6.  In  chronic  cases  its  influence  is  greater  than  that  of 
29 


450 


CHINO  LIN  A. 


quinine.  7.  Its  tonic  action  is  similar  to,  and  perhaps  greater  than,  that  of  quinine.  8. 
Its  action  in  cases  of  masked  or  larval  malarial  disease,  and  especially  in  rheumatic 
affections  due  to  malarial  influences,  is  incomparably  greater  than  that  of  quinine.”  In 
1882,  Hagens  of  Dantzic,  in  an  exhaustive  examination  of  the  various  surrogates  for 
quinine  (. Zeitschrift.  f.  Min.  Med.,  v.  242),  and  from  a clinical  point  of  view,  reached 
almost  identical  conclusions  respecting  the  citrate  of  chinoidine,  admitting,  however,  that 
it  is  apt  to  provoke  vomiting  unless  associated  with  proper  correctives.  According  to 
Nothnagel  and  Rossbach,  its  dose  must  be  two  or  three  times  greater  than  that  of 
the  quinine  salts ; and  Bernatzik  states  the  dose  at  one-half  greater  than  that  of  quinine. 
Burdel,  whose  field  of  practice  was  in  a very  malarial  region,  states  the  dose  for  an  adult 
at  from  Gm.  0.45-1  (7  to  15  grains),  and  for  very  young  children  Gm.  0.13-20,  (2  or  3 
grains),  recommending  it  to  be  given  in  strong  coffee  highly  sweetened.  He  points  out 
that  its  special  merits  are  exhibited  in  mild  and  also  in  chronic  cases  of  the  disease, 
especially  where  the  malarial  cachexia  is  marked  ( Bull . de  Therap.,  c.  142).  Similar 
testimony  abounds.  There  can  be  no  doubt  that  this  preparation  might  be  very  usefully 
substituted  in  many  cases  in  which  the  bitterness  of  quinine  or  its  cost  renders  it  objec- 
tionable. 


C HIN  OLIN  A . — Quinoline  . 

Quinoline , Fr. ; Chinolin , G. 

Formula  C9H7N.  Molecular  weight  128.74. 

History  and  Source. — Gerhardt  (1842)  obtained  an  impure  base  by  distilling 
quinine  with  potassa,  to  which  he  gave  the  name  chinoleine  ; Runge  had  previously 
(1834)  separated  a basic  body  from  coal-tar,  called  by  him  leucoline,  the  identity  of 
which  with  quinoline  has  since  been  established.  Williams  (1855)  first  obtained  quino- 
line in  a pure  state.  Numerous  methods  were  published  for  producing  quinoline  syn- 
thetically, but  to  Skraup  belongs  the  credit  of  having  suggested  a process  by  which  it  is 
now  cheaply  manufactured  on  a large  scale.  A mixture  of  nitrobenzene,  aniline,  glycerin, 
and  concentrated  sulphuric  acid  is  heated  (gently  at  first  to  avoid  violent  reaction),  then 
diluted  with  water,  and  distilled  to  remove  nitrobenzene ; the  residue  is  made  alkaline 
with  sodium  hydroxide,  and  the  new  base  distilled  in  a current  of  steam.  The  crude 
product  is  purified  by  fractionation,  and  quinoline  is  precipitated  as  an  acid  sulphate 
from  its  alcoholic  solution  by  addition  of  sulphuric  acid.  The  reactions  in  Skraup’s  pro- 
cess are,  briefly  stated,  as  follows : Glycerin  is  converted  into  acrolein  by  the  sulphuric 
acid,  and  this  combines  with  aniline  under  the  oxidizing  influence  of  nitrobenzene,  form- 
ing quinoline.  About  60  per  cent,  of  the  theoretical  yield  is  obtained  by  this  method. 

Quinoline  is  a tertiary  amine,  and  may  be  looked  upon  as  naphtalene,  C10H8,  in  which 
an  atom  of  N has  displaced  one  of  the  groups  CH. 

Properties. — Pure  quinoline  is  a colorless  or  faintly  yellow,  mobile,  highly  refrac- 
tive liquid,  with  a peculiar  aromatic  odor  and  bitter  pungent  taste ; its  spec.  grav.  at  15° 
C.  (59°  F.)  is  1.084,  and  its  boiling-point  is  237°  C.  (458.6°  F.).  It  volatilizes  at  ordinary 
temperatures,  and  when  exposed  to  a freezing  mixture  of  solid  carbon  dioxide  and  ether 
congeals  to  a crystalline  mass.  It  is  readily  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  benzin,  and  chloro- 
form, and  to  some  extent  in  hot  water.  Quinoline  is  hygroscopic,  and  if  exposed  to  a 
damp  atmosphere  forms  a hydrate,  C9H7N  + 1sH.20,  which  becomes  turbid  at  40°  C. 
(104°  F.).  By  the  action  of  light  and  air  it  is  rapidly  turned  brown,  but  may  be  decolor- 
ized by  shaking  with  solid  potassa  and  slow  rectification.  Quinoline  is  converted  into 
quinoline  sulphonic  acid  by  fuming  sulphuric  acid,  and  this,  when  fused  with  potassa, 
yields  oxyquinoline,  C9HGNOH.  (See  Kairin.) 

The  salts  of  quinoline  when  pure  are  odorless,  mostly  crystallizable,  and  precipitated 
by  most  alkaloidal  reagents ; those  of  the  mineral  acids  are  very  hygroscopic. 

Tests. — A higher  or  lower  boiling-point  would  indicate  the  presence  of  homologous 
compounds  and  water.  Aniline,  if  present,  causes  a violet  coloration  with  chlorinated 
lime,  and  nitrobenzene  will  separate  as  oily  drops  if  quinoline  is  mixed  with  an  excess 
of  sulphuric  acid  and  cooled. 

Quinoline  is  largely  used  in  the  manufacture  of  cynnin , a golden-green  product  obtained 
by  acting  on  quinoline  with  amyl  iodide  and  afterward  with  soda ; it  dyes  wool  blue. 

Allied  Compounds. — Axalgen,  Ortho-oxyethylana-monobenzoyl-amidoquinoline. — This  new 
antipyretic  is  the  result  of  an  endeavor  to  produce  a compound  having  high  physiological  power ; 
its  synthetic  composition  was  thought  out  before  actual  production  of  the  substance.  The 
chemical  formula  for  analgen  is  CgilsNOC^IIgNIICOCpIG ; the  process  for  its  manufacture  is 


CHIBA  TA. 


451 


complicated.  It  occurs  as  a white  crystalline  powder,  slightly  soluble  in  cold,  but  more  readily 
in  hot  "water,  and  soluble  in  alcohol  and  dilute  acids.  Its  melting-point  is  155°  C.  (311°  F.). 
It  has  been  used  in  doses  of  1.0  Om.  (15  grains)  with  gratifying  results  to  relieve  rheumatic 
pains. 

Orexine  hydrochloride,  Phenyldihydroquinazoline  hydrochloride. — This  complex  derivative 
of  quinoline  was  introduced  in  1890  as  a stomachic  of  remarkable  activity.  It  is  prepared  by 
starting  from  formanilid,  making  sodium  fonnanilid,  then  orthonitrobenzyl-formanilid,  and 
finally  orexinehydrochloride.  It  forms  a white  powder,  melting  at  80°  C.  (176°  F.),  or  colorless 
acieular  crystals.  It  is  soluble  in  13  parts  of  water,  also  in  alcohol,  but  insoluble  in  ether.  Its 
taste  is  bitter  and  pungent,  and  it  exerts  a powerful  irritant  effect  on  the  mucous  membrane  of 
the  nose.  Orexine  is  usually  administered  in  doses  of  4 to  8 grains  ; it  should  never  be  given 
in  pill  form,  but  always  in  wafers,  followed  by  a large  draught  of  some  liquid  to  prevent  local 
irritant  action.  The  reports  regarding  its  efficacy  are  conflicting.  Its  chemical  formula  is 

c6ii4.ncii.ch2nc6h5hci. 

Diaphtherin,  Oxyquinaseptol. — As  its  name  indicates,  this  new  antiseptic  is  a compound  of 
oxyquinoline  and  aseptol.  It  is  obtained  by  first  preparing  oxyquinoline  phenolsulphonate,  and 
introducing  into  this  a second  molecule  of  oxyquinoline.  Its  chemical  formula  is  C6H4.OIINC9- 
II60H.S020HNe9H60H.  Diaphtherin  is  a brightly-yellow  powder,  readily  soluble  in  water  ; on 
the  addition  of  weak  alkalies  and  blood  active  oxyquinoline  is  separated.  A 1 per  cent,  solu- 
tion is  said  to  be  sufficiently  strong  for  wounds.  It  is  said  to  be  non-toxic  and  non-caustic. 

Action  and  Uses. — Although  quinoline  tartrate  and  salicylate  have  been  fre- 
quently recommended  for  medicinal  use,  they  have  been  employed  only  to  a limited 
extent,  and  by  some  are  considered  useless,  and  even  irritating  to  the  stomach  ; both  salts 
occur  in  the  form  of  permanent  white  crystals  (the  tartrate  requiring  8 parts  and  the 
salicylate  about  75  parts  of  water  for  solution),  and  are  given  in  the  same  dose,  0. 5-1.0 
Gm.  (7^-15  grains). 

Laborde  and  others  assert  that  cinchonine  is  rather  a convulsive  agent  than  an  anti- 
periodic.  It  is  used  to  cure  'periodical  fevers , but  whether  its  dose  should  be  greater  or 
less  than  that  of  quinine  is  undetermined.  The  therapeutical  value  of  chinolin , of 
whose  use  the  most  important  effects  were  predicted,  has  not  fulfilled  the  anticipations  of 
its  usefulness.  Like  many  other  agents,  it  is  an  antipyretic,  and  must,  therefore,  be 
credited  with  sometimes  interrupting  the  course  of  simple  intermittent  fevers.  Brieger 
employed  it  without  the  slightest  benefit  in  typhus,  pneumonia,  rheumatism,  and  remit- 
tent fever;  in  some  cases  it  was  vomited,  and  thereby  reduced  the  temperature  very 
slightly.  In  Philadelphia,  Harrington  found  it  valueless  as  an  antiperiodic  ( Phila . Med. 
Times , xii.  392).  It  had  also  bad  effects,  such  as  disturbed  digestion,  vomiting,  and 
nausea.  The  observations  of  Hiller,  which  extended  to  phthisis  and  typhoid  fever,  gave 
like  results.  He  therefore  abandoned  its  use  (Amer.  Jour,  of  Med.  Sci. , July,  1882  p. 
246).  Seifert  claims  that  a 5 per  cent,  solution  of  chinolin  is  an  efficient  solvent  of 
diphtherial  membranes  ; and  Marcell  makes  a similar  statement  (Centralbl.  f.  Therap 
i.  540).  Donath  and  also  Unruh  proclaimed  its  efficiency,  but  it  has  ceased  to  be  relied 
upon  ( Therap . Gaz.,  ix.  29;  Med.  News , xlvi.  293).  Brieger  pointed  out  anew  that  the 
similarity  of  composition  of  chinolin  and  quinine  led  physicians  into  the  common  error 
of  concluding  that  the  therapeutical  action  of  the  two  were  identical,  but  that  when  the 
former  was  subjected  to  the  only  legitimate  test,  clinical  experience,  it  proved  to  be 
worthless  as  a medicine  ( Zeitschrift  f.  hlin.  Med.,  iv.  206). 

Orexin  ( hydrochlorate ) was  alleged  to  have  a remarkable  property  of  stimulating  the 
appetite  for  food  (whence  its  name,  which  means  hunger)  ; but  the  original  statements 
concerning  it  have  not  been  confirmed. 


CHIRATA,  U.  S.,  JBv, — Chirata. 

Chiretta , U.  S.  1870. — Chireita , E.,  Gr. ; Chirette , Fr. ; Ostindisclier  Enzian , Gr. 

The  entire  plant  Swertia  (Ophelia,  Grisebach)  Chirata,  Hamilton , s.  Agathotes  (Gen- 
tiana,  Roxburgh)  Chirayta,  Don.  Wallich,  Plant.  Asiat.,  iii.  252;  Bentley  and  Trimen, 
Med.  Plants , 183. 

Nat.  Ord. — Gentianeae. 

Origin. — The  plant  is  an  annual,  and  indigenous  to  the  mountainous  portions  of 
Northern  India,  where  it  grows  at  an  elevation  of  from  5000  to  9000  feet,  and  is  col- 
lected when  the  fruit  begins  to  form.  It  has  long  been  in  use  in  India,  and  became 
known  in  England  as  a medicine  about  1839. 

Description. — It  is  met  with  in  flattened  bundles  about  90  Cm.  (3  feet)  long,  tied 
with  a thin  slip  of  bamboo,  and  has  a pale  purplish-brown  color.  The  simple  and  taper- 
ing root  is  about  75  Mm.  (3  inches)  long.  The  stem  is  0.9  to  1.5  M.  (3  to  5 feet)  long, 


452 


CHIRA  TA  .—CHL  ORAL. 


cylindrical  below,  slightly  quadrangular  above,  much  branched,  smooth,  and  slightly 
thickened  at  the  nodes,  and  containing  a narrow  wood-circle  and  a large  yellowish  pith 
The  leaves  are  opposite,  closely  sessile,  ovate  or  ovate-lanceolate,  entire  at  the  margin, 
and  five-nerved ; in  the  outer  layer  of  the  bundles  they  are  usually  broken  off,  leaving 
the  stems  almost  bare.  The  flowers  are  numerous  and  small,  in  loose  axillary  racemose 
cymes,  on  the  upper  branches  often  single,  stalked,  with  a deeply  four-lobed  calyx  and 
corolla,  the  latter  upon  each  acute  lobe  with  a pair  of  fringed  scales  ; stamens  four.  The 
fruit  is  an  ovate  capsule,  tapering  above  into  the  two  styles  and  projecting  but  little  from 
the  persistent  calyx  and  corolla.  The  seeds  are  very  numerous,  minute,  and  angular. 
The  drug  is  inodorous  and  has  a purely  and  persistently  bitter  taste. 

Constituents. — The  older  analyses  failed  to  isolate  the  active  principles  of  chirata, 
and  demonstrated  only  the  presence  of  the  common  constituents  of  plants  and  the  almost 
total  absence  of  tannin.  Henry  Hohn  (1869)  succeeded  in  isolating  two  distinct  bit- 
ter principles — ophelic  acid,  Ci3H2o010,  and  chiratin,  C26H48015,  the  former  of  which  was 
obtained  as  a brown,  very  hygroscopic,  amorphous  mass  which  is  readily  soluble  in  water, 
alcohol,  and  ether,  has  a slightly  acidulous  afterward  intensely  bitter  taste,  precipitates 
cuprous  oxide  from  Trommer’s  solution,  and  produces  with  the  lead  acetates  yellow  pre- 
cipitates ; a crystalline  salt  could  not  be  obtained.  Chiratin  forms  a pale-yellow  powder, 
which,  though  hygroscopic,  is  not  freely  soluble  in  cold  water,  but  dissolves  readily  in 
alcohol  and  ether,  and  has  a neutral  reaction  to  test-paper  and  an  intensely  bitter  taste. 
Its  aqueous  solution  produces  a flocculent  white  precipitate  with  tannin,  and  is  not 
affected  by  Trommer’s  solution.  When  boiled  with  diluted  hydrochloric  acid  it  is  split 
into  ophelic  acid  and  chiratogenin,  Ci3H.,403,  which  is  yellowish-brown,  amorphous,  bitter, 
nearly  insoluble  in  water,  soluble  in  alcohol,  not  precipitated  by  tannin,  and  not  affected 
by  Trommer’s  solution.  It  is  not  improbable  that  chiratogenin  may  exist  in  the  drug. 
The  presence  of  a yellow  crystalline  wax-like  substance  and  of  some  tannin  was  also 
observed.  Dried  at  100°  C.,  the  stems  yielded  3.7  and  the  leaves  7.5  per  cent,  of  ash. 
which  is  mainly  composed  of  potassa,  lime,  and  magnesia,  combined  with  carbonic  and 
phosphoric  acids. 

Substitutes. — Several  species  of  Ophelia  and  allied  genera  are  known  in  India  as 
chirata,  and  are  distinguished  from  the  official  drug  as  puharee  (hill),  dukhunee  (south- 
ern), ooda  (purple),  and  meetha  (sweet)  chirata ; they  appear  to  be  indiscriminately 
collected  and  sent  to  Bombay,  where,  according  to  Dymock,  the  drug  is  garbled.  Prof. 
Bentley  (1874)  met  with  such  a substitution  (probably  Ophelia  angustifolia  or  0.  pul- 
chella,  Don),  which  had  the  stem  obscurely  quadrangular  below  and  evidently  four-sided 
and  winged  above,  the  leaves  narrow  and  tapering  to  both  ends,  the  leaf-scars  not  prom- 
inently marked,  the  flowers  larger,  the  woody  circle  of  the  stem  thicker,  and  the  infusion 
less  bitter  than  the  true  chirata. 

Action  and  Uses. — In  Hindostan  this  medicine  is  held  to  be  stomachic , tonic, 
antiperiodic,  cholagogue,  and  deobstruent,  as  well  as  efficient  in  chronic  bronchitis.  In 
truth,  it  possesses  virtues  very  similar  to  those  of  gentian  and  other  simple  bitters.  But 
in  India  the  natives  are  said  “ to  attribute  almost  miraculous  properties  to  the  plant” 
(Hunter,  Lancet,  Dec.  1890,  p.  1975).  The  dose  of  chirata  is  about  Gm.  1.30  (gr.  xx). 
An  infusion  may  be  made  with  Gm.  16  (gss)  of  chirata  to  Gm.  500  (Oj)  of  boiling 
water,  or  this  preparation  may  be  reduced  by  boiling  for  twenty  minutes.  Dose, 
Gm.  30-60  (f^i-ij),  three  times  a day. 


CHLORAL,  V.  S. — Chloral. 

Chloral  hydras,  Br.,  F.  Cod. ; Chloralum  hydratum , P.  G.  ; Aldehydum  trichloratum. — 
Chloral  Hydrate,  Hydrous  Chloral,  Trichloraldehy de-hydrate,  E. ; Hydrate  de  chloral , Fr. ; 
C Morality  dr  at,  G. ; Cloralio  idrato,  It. ; Cloral  hidratado,  Sp. 

Formula  C2HC130.1I20.  Molecular  weight  164.97. 

A crystalline  soiid,  composed  of  trichloraldehyde  or  chloral  with  one  molecule  of  water. 
It  should  be  kept  in  glass-stoppered  bottles,  in  a cool  and  dark  place. — U.  S. 

It  is  unfortunate  that  the  new  Pharmacopoeia  has  continued  the  title  of  1880  for  this 
preparation  ; since  the  hydrated  condition  distinguishes  the  official  crystalline  compound 
from  the  liquid  anhydrous  chloral,  it  seems  to  us  this  fact  should  have  been  recognized 
in  the  official  title,  as  has  been  done  in  European  pharmacopoeias. 

Formation  and  Preparation. — Chloral  was  discovered  by  Liebig  (1832),  and 
its  production  and  composition  were  soon  after  determined. by  him  and  by  Dumas,  As  a 


CHLORAL. 


453 


result  of  these  investigations  it  was  stated  that  when  dry  chlorine  is  passed  into  absolute 
alcohol,  aldehyde  and  hydrochloric  acid  are  first  formed : C2H5OH  + Cl2  — C2H40  -j- 
2HC1 ; by  the  continued  action  of  dry  chlorine  gas  3 atoms  of  hydrogen  are  abstracted 
from  the  aldehyde,  with  the  formation  of  hydrochloric  acid,  and  are  replaced  by  3 atoms 
of  chlorine,  producing  chloral ; the  reaction  was  explained  by  the  following  equation  : 
C2H40  -|-  3C12  = 3HC1  + C2HC130.  The  fact  that  when  chlorine  is  brought  in  contact 
with  aldehyde,  trichlorbutylaldehyde,  a condensation  product,  is  formed  instead  of  chloral, 
renders  the  substitution  theory  above  stated  untenable.  According  to  Lieben,  the  nas- 
cent aldehyde  produced  by  action  of  chlorine  on  alcohol  acts  upon  the  alcohol  present, 
forming  acetal  or  ethidene  diethyl  ether;  thus,  C2H40  + 2C2H5OH  = CH3.CI1(0C2H5)2- 
-f  H20.  The  acetal  is  converted  into  trichloracetal,  and  this  by  the  hydrochloric  acid 
into  ethyl  chloride  and  chloral  alcoholate ; thus,  CC13.CH(0C2H5)2  + HC1  = CCl3.CHO- 
HOC2H5  + C2H5C1.  The  chloral  alcoholate  upon  addition  of  sulphuric  acid  yields  chloral 
and  ethyl  sulphuric  acid,  as  shown  by  the  following  equation  : CCl3.CHOHOC2H5  -j~ 
H2S04  = C2HC130  + C2H5HS04  + H20.  Other  products  of  decomposition  are  formed  in 
smaller  quantities,  and  necessitate  the  subsequent  purification  of  the  chloral.  The  yield 
is  very  materially  reduced  if  water  be  present,  in  which  case  a portion  of  the  aldehyde 
at  first  produced  is  converted  into  acetic  acid  (C2H40  + H20  -f  Cl2  = C2H402  -f-  2HC1), 
and  this  acid,  reacting  with  some  alcohol,  forms  acetic  ether,  which  is  not  transformed 
into  chloral  by  the  action  of  chlorine.  In  preparing  chloral,  therefore,  the  materials 
reacting  upon  one  another  must  be  as  nearly  free  from  water  as  they  can  be  obtained. 
Chlorine  gas  is  generated  in  the  usual  manner,  and  passed  first  into  a Woulf’s  bottle, 
where  some  of  the  moisture  is  condensed ; then  over  calcium  chloride  or  through  sul- 
phuric acid,  by  which  it  is  completely  dried ; and  finally  into  the  absolute  alcohol,  which 
is  kept  cool  as  long  as  the  chlorine  gas  is  rapidly  absorbed,  but  after  a few  days  requires 
to  be  warmed,  the  heat  being  slowly  increased,  until  at  the  end  of  the  process  it  has 
reached  60°  to  70°  C.  (140°  to  158°  F.).  The  whole  process  requires  about  two  weeks 
(for  600  Gm.  of  alcohol  three  days,  Dumas)  ; but  if  larger  quantities  of  alcohol  be  ope- 
rated upon  a longer  time  is  required.  In  the  experience  of  Dr.  Squibb  (1870),  92 
pounds  of  alcohol  required  the  continuous  generation  of  chlorine  gas  for  twenty-eight 
days,  using  about  11  tons  of  a mixture  of  manganese  dioxide  and  common  salt,  and 
yielded  about  160  pounds  of  crude  chloral.  Large  quantities  of  hydrochloric  acid  gas 
containing  some  chloral  escape  during  the  latter  part  of  the  process,  and  if  passed 
through  a reversed  condenser  the  vapors  of  the  latter  will  be  condensed  and  returned  to 
the  vessel.  Kraemer  observed  (1874)  that  the  ethereal  liquid  which  accumulates 
beneath  the  hydrochloric  acid  is  a mixture  of  the  chlorides  of  ethylene  and  eihylidene. 

Crude  chloral  for  its  purification  should  be  treated  first  with  about  its  own  weight  of 
strong  sulphuric  acid,  by  which  the  chloral  hydrate  and  alcoholate  are  decomposed  and 
colorless  chloral  separates  as  an  oily  layer,  which  is  at  once  rectified  over  some  burned 
lime.  To  avoid  combustion  the  lime  must  be  completely  covered  by  the  liquid.  Dr. 
Squibb  prefers  to  distil  the  chloral  directly  from  the  sulphuric  acid,  to  combine  the  distil- 
late partly  with  water,  rectifying  it  over  a mixture  of  lime  and  calcium  carbonate,  and 
hydrating  this  second  distillate  completely  by  adding  the  necessary  quantity  of  water, 
ascertained  by  calculation  from  the  weight  of  the  first  distillate  (82  parts  require  10  parts 
of  water) ; while  still  hot  the  mass  is  poured  upon  plates  covered  with  a bell-glass  and 
allowed  to  crystallize. 

Properties. — Chloral  (anhydrous)  is  a colorless,  thin,  oily  liquid  of  a peculiar  pun- 
gent, irritating  odor  and  caustic  taste.  It  has  the  density  1.502  at  18°  C.  (64.4°  F.), 
boils  at  99.1°  C.  (210.4°  F.),  and  is  gradually,  or  sometimes  rapidly,  converted  into  insol- 
uble chloral  or  metachloral,  which  is  a white  mass  or  powder  of  the  same  elementary  com- 
position as  chloral,  but  of  a much  weaker  odor,  and  at  about  180°  C.  (356°  F.)  distils 
without  melting,  and  becomes  again  liquid  and  soluble  in  water.  The  change  into  the 
insoluble  condition  is  prevented  by  the  addition  of  a little  chloroform  (Markoe,  1870). 

Chloral  hydrate  is  met  with  in  white  crystalline  masses  or  in  separate  colorless,  oblique- 
rhombic  crystals  of  a saccharoid  aspect,  and  attracts  moisture  in  a damp  atmosphere,  but 
in  a nearly  dry  atmosphere  evaporates  slowly  without  liquefying.  It  has  a peculiar  aro- 
matic and  somewhat  irritating  odor,  the  pungency  of  which  is  increased  with  the  temper- 
ature, and  a bitterish  caustic  taste.  Its  vapors  are  but  slightly  affected  by  the  vapors  of 
ammonia,  except  at  a somewhat  elevated  temperature,  when  white  clouds  are  produced. 
It  fuses  at  about  58°  C.  (136°  F.)  to  a clear,  colorless  liquid  having  the  spec.  grav.  1.575. 
and  congealing  again  to  a crystalline  mass  at  about  50°  C.  (122°  F.)  (between  35°  and 
50°  C.  = 95°  and  122°  F.,  U.  $.).  At  about  78°  C.  (172°  F.)  it  begins  to  yield  vapors 


454 


CHLORAL. 


of  water  and  of  anhydrous  chloral,  and  it  boils  near  95°  C.  (203°  F.),  and  evaporates 
without  leaving  any  residue.  It  is  soluble  in  4 parts  of  chloroform  and  in  less  than  its 
own  weight  of  water,  alcohol,  or  ether.  Chloral  which  has  been  insufficiently  hydrated 
contains  the  insoluble  modification,  and  is  therefore  not  completely  soluble  in  water.  It 
dissolves  in  petroleum  benzin,  benzene,  and  carbon  disulphide,  and  may  be  readily 
obtained  in  crystals  from  the  hot  solutions.  It  is  soluble  in  glycerin,  liquefies  in  contact 
with  camphor  and  carbolic  acid  (see  below),  and  forms  solutions  with  fats  and  volatile 
oils  (Jehn,  1874).  The  solution  of  chloral  hydrate  in  strong  alcohol  has  and  retains  a 
neutral  reaction,  but  when  dissolved  in  water  it  slightly  reddens  blue  litmus-paper ; it  is, 
however,  not  precipitated  by  silver  nitrate  (absence  of  hydrochloric  acid)  ; exposed  to  a 
damp  atmosphere  or  when  kept  in  aqueous  solution,  it  acquires  a permanent  acid  reac- 
tion. Treated  with  warm  soda  or  other  alkali  hydroxide,  chloral  is  decomposed  into 
chloroform  and  alkali  formate : C2HC130  + KOH  yields  CHC13  + KCH02. 

On  adding  to  the  aqueous  solution  of  chloral  contained  in  a test-tube  water  of  ammonia 
and  a few  drops  of  test-solution  of  silver  nitrate,  a silver  mirror  will  be  obtained  upon 
the  glass.  An  aqueous  solution,  treated  with  test-solution  of  ammonium  sulphide, 
gives  a reddish-brown  precipitate.  Chloral  hydrate  which  has  acquired  an  acid  reaction 
may  be  purified  by  recrystallization  from  hot  benzin  or  carbon  disulphide ; should  the 
decomposition  have  proceeded  further,  it  is  best  to  treat  with  strong  sulphuric  acid,  etc., 
as  in  the  purification  of  crude  chloral. 

Tests. — The  presence  of  chloral  alcoholate  is  indicated  by  the  combustion  which  takes 
place  on  heating  a sample  upon  platinum-foil  over  a flame.  Smaller  quantities  are  detected 
by  the  turbidity  resulting  from  the  production  of  iodoform  if  a strong  aqueous  solution  is 
warmed  with  a slight  excess  of  potassa  solution,  iodine  being  then  added  as  long  as  it  is 
decolorized.  On  cooling,  microscopic  crystals  of  iodoform  will  separate.  The  presence 
of  various  organic  impurities  is  detected  by  warming  the  chloral  hydrate  with  sulphuric 
acid,  which  will  then  acquire  a brown  color.  If  decomposition  has  set  in,  the  aqueous 
solution  of  chloral  hydrate  on  being  acidulated  with  sulphuric  acid  will  readily  decolorize 
a weak  solution  of  potassium  permanganate  and  cause  a white  precipitate  with  silver 
nitrate.  The  decomposition  of  chloral  hydrate  by  alkalies  affords  a means  of  estimating 
its  value:  when  perfectly  pure,  100  grains  of  it,  dissolved  in  an  ounce  of  water  and 
mixed  with  30  grains  of  slaked  lime  and  distilled,  yield  not  less  than  70  grains  of  chloro- 
form. Moist  chloral  hydrate  yields  less  in  proportion  to  the  excess  of  moisture ; chloral 
alcoholate  produces  only  60  per  cent,  of  chloroform.  V.  Meyer  and  Heffter  (1873) 
estimate  the  purity  of  chloral  from  the  amount  of  formic  acid  produced  by  warming  the 
solution  of  chloral  hydrate  with  an  excess  of  normal  solution  of  soda  and  determining 
the  excess  of  soda  volumetrically  by  an  acid.  Pure  sodium  hydroxide  will  decompose 
4.1375  times  its  weight  of  pure  chloral  hydrate.  “ Chloral  should  be  dry,  and  should 
not  readily  attract  moisture  in  ordinarily  dry  air;  when  dissolved  in  diluted  alcohol, 
acidulated  with  nitric  acid,  it  should  remain  unaffected  by  test-solution  of  silver  nitrate 
(absence  of  hydrochloric  acid  and  chlorides).  If  1 Gm.  be  dissolved  in  2 Cc.  of  warm 
distilled  water,  and  about  8 Cc.  (or  a slight  excess)  of  solution  of  potassa  added,  the 
mixture  filtered  clear  through  wet  filter-paper,  and  the  filtrate  treated  with  test-solution 
of  iodine  until  it  is  yellowish,  no  yellow  crystalline  precipitate  (iodoform)  should  appear 
even  after  standing  half  an  hour  (absence  of  chloral  alcoholate).” — U.  S. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparations. — Chloral  hydrate  and  camphor.  In  1873 
attention  was  drawn  to  the  fact  that  if  powdered  camphor  be  triturated  with  an  equal 
weight  of  chloral  hydrate,  a colorless  liquid  of  syrupy  consistence  is  obtained,  which  has 
since  been  used  under  the  name  of  camphorated  chloral.  E.  C.  Saunders  (1876)  regards 
it  as  a simple  solution,  camphor  being  the  solvent;  but  from  its  optical  behavior  Caze- 
neuve  and  Imbert  (1880)  consider  it  a true  chemical  compound.  It  is  soluble  in  alcohol, 
ether,  chloroform,  glycerin,  fixed  oils,  and  in  aqueous  solutions  of  chloral ; but  it  is  decom- 
posed by  water,  chloral  hydrate  being  dissolved  and  camphor  precipitated. 

Chloral  camphoratum,  N.  F. — Camphorated  Chloral,  Chloral  and  Camphor. — Take 
of  chloral,  50  parts ; camphor,  50  parts.  Mix  them  by  agitation  in  a bottle,  or  by  trit- 
uration in  a warm  mortar  until  they  are  liquefied  and  combined. 

Chloral  hydrate  as  a solvent. — R.  F.  Fairthorne  (1874)  observed  that  solu- 
tions of  chloral  hydrate  in  water  or  glycerin  will  dissolve  morphine,  veratrine,  and  other 
alkaloids,  and  suggested  a class  of  preparations  which  he  named  chloral-gh/cerites,  the 
basis  of  which  is  a solution  of  1 drachm  of  chloral  hydrate  in  half  a fluidounce  of 
glycerin. 


CHLORAL. 


455 


Derivatives  and  Allied  Compounds. — IIvpnal. — This  name  has  been  given  to  a compound  of 
chloral  and  antipyrine  known  as  monochlorantipyrine.  It  is  prepared  by  mixing  in  a separa- 
tory funnel  a solution  of  47.0  Gm.  of  chloral  hydrate  in  50  Cc.  of  distilled  water,  and  a solution 
of  53.0  Gm.  of  antipyrine  in  50  Cc.  of  distilled  water  ; after  an  hour  the  oily-looking  liquid  is 
drawn  off  into  a capsule,  and  in  twenty-four  hours  will  be  found  to  have  congealed  to  a mass  of 
transparent  rhombic  crystals,  which  should  be  drained  and  dried  in  a desiccator  (Demandre). 
The  crystals  are  odorless  and  tasteless,  melt  at  58°-60°  C.  (136.4°-140°  F.),  and  dissolve  in  5-6 
parts  of  water.  Hypnal  is  said  to  combine  analgesic  and  hypnotic  properties,  1. 0-2.0  Gm.  (15- 
30  grains),  relieving  pain  and  producing  quiet  sleep  in  troublesome  coughs  (Bardet). 

Somnal,  Ethylated  chloral-urethane. — Under  this  name  a new  hypnotic  was  introduced  in 
1889,  which  is  made  by  union  of  chloral,  alcohol,  and  urethane;  it  has  the  formula  C7H12C1303N, 
differing  in  formula  from  ural  by  containing  C2I14  additional.  It  melts  at  42°  C.  (107.6°  F.), 
does  not  react  with  silver  nitrate,  and  is  not  acted  upon  by  acids.  It  is  administered  in  doses  of 
2.0  Gm.  (30  grains)  in  aqueous  solution  flavored  with  syrup.  Half  an  hour  after  its  administra- 
tion a sound  sleep,  lasting  from  six  to  eight  hours,  is  produced  without  any  unpleasant  after- 
effects. 

Ural,  Chloral-urethane,  Uralium. — Melted  chloral  hydrate  is  capable  of  dissolving  urethane  ; 
if  to  such  a solution  concentrated  hydrochloric  acid  is  added,  it  solidifies  within  twenty-four 
hours  to  a mass  insoluble  in  water.  This  is  then  treated  with  concentrated  sulphuric  acid  and 
washed  with  water,  by  which  an  oily  liquid  results,  which  subsequently  crystallizes.  The 
product,  C5H8C1303N,  is  insoluble  in  cold  and  decomposed  by  boiling  water ; it  is  abundantly 
taken  up  by  alcohol  and  ether,  and  reprecipitated  by  water;  its  melting-point  is  103°  C.  (217.4° 
F.).  The  average  dose  as  a hypnotic  is  1.0  Gm.  (15  grains),  but  its  sparing  solubility  has 
operated  against  its  use. 

Chloralcyanhydrin,  Chloral  Hydrocyanin,  Chloral  Hydrocyanate. — This  compound  was  first 
obtained  in  1872  by  treating  chloral  with  anhydrous  hydrocyanic  acid  at  an  elevated  temperature. 
Pinner  (1884)  suggested  to  prepare  it  by  dissolving  chloral  hydrate  in  a 10  or  12  per  cent,  solu- 
tion of  hydrocyanic  acid  obtained  from  potassium  ferrocyanide,  equal  in  weight  to  that  of  the 
chloral  hydrate ; the  solution  after  twenty-four  hours  is  digested  for  several  hours,  and  finally 
evaporated  on  a water-bath.  It  crystallizes  from  water  in  white  rhombic  plates,  melts  at  61°  C. 
(141.8°  F.),  boils  with  some  decomposition  between  215°  and  220°  C.,  has  an  odor  recalling  that 
of  hydrocyanic  acid  and  chloral,  and  is  readily  soluble  in  water,  alcohol,  and  ether.  Its  chemi- 
cal formula  is  CCl3.CHOIICN.  An  aqueous  solution  of  chloralcyanhydrin  will  remain 
unchanged  for  some  time,  and  is  not  precipitated  by  silver  nitrate,  except  after  heating ; alkalies 
decompose  the  salt,  yielding  chloroform,  hydrocyanic  and  formic  acids.  It  has  been  recom- 
mended as  a substitute  for  hydrocyanic  acid,  of  which  it  yields  15.5  per  cent.  ; 1.29  Gm.  chloral- 
cyanhydrin dissolved  in  9 Gm.  distilled  water  furnishes  a solution  equal  in  strength  to  the  official 
2 per  cent,  hydrocyanic  acid. 

Chloral-ammonium,  or  Trichloramidoethylic  Alcohol,  has  been  suggested  as  a hypnotic  in 
doses  of  15-30  grains.  It  may  be  obtained  by  passing  a rapid  current  of  dry  ammonia  through 
a solution  of  anhydrous  chloral  in  chloroform  as  long  as  it  is  absorbed,  pouring  off  the  chloro- 
form from  the  crystalline  deposit,  pressing  this  between  bibulous  paper,  and  drying  in  vacuo. 
It  occurs  as  small  needle-shaped  crystals,  which  melt  at  62°-64°  C.  (143.6°-147.2°  F.)  and  are 
soluble ; the  aqueous  solution  is  prone  to  change. 

Chloralose — This  name  has  been  proposed  by  Hanriot  and  Richet  for  a new  hypnotic 
obtained  by  heating  equal  quantities  of  anhydrous  chloral  and  dry  glucose  together,  to  100°  C. 
(212°  F.)  for  one  hour;  upon  cooling  the  mass  is  treated  with  a little  water,  and  then  boiling 
ether.  After  distilling  the  ether-soluble  portions  five  or  six  times  with  water  to  remove  chloral, 
the  new  compound  is  obtained  by  crystallization  ; it  is  soluble  in  hot  water  and  alcohol.  Para- 
chloralose  is  produced  at  the  same  time.  Very  little  is  known  thus  far  regarding  this  new 
body. 

Chloral-phenol  is  made  by  triturating  equal  weights  of  chloral  hydrate  and  carbolic  acid  ; 
it  forms  a colorless  viscid  liquid,  sp.  gr.  at  20°  C.  (68°  F.)  1.289  ; it  possesses  prominently  the  odor 
of  chloral  hydrate,  has  a sweet  caustic  taste,  and  produces  blisters  when  placed  upon  the  skin.  It 
is  miscible  with  alcohol,  acetic  acid,  chloroform,  carbon  disulphide,  and  ether.  Chloral-phenol 
in  small  quantities  coagulates  albumen  ; an  excess  redissolves  it.  Cotton  impregnated  with  it, 
has  been  recommended  for  relief  in  toothache.  J.  B.  Garrison  (1881)  prefers  for  this  purpose 
the  firm  and  short  cotton  from  the  cottonwood  tree,  Populus  canadensis,  Michaux ; wrhen  satu- 
rated with  the  liquid  it  is  known  as  chloro-carbolated  cotton. 

Action  and  Uses. — Applied  in  its  pure  state  to  the  sound  skin,  chloral  occasions 
a slight  redness,  but  it  acts  as  a powerful  irritant  upon  the  derma  and  upon  wTounds,  even 
occasioning  eschars,  and  it  excites  pain  in  healthy  mucous  membranes.  A warm  satu- 
rated solution  of  chloral  in  water  is  said  to  have  acted  as  a caustic  upon  the  skin  of  the 
temple,  and  a paste  composed  of  chloral  and  finely-powdered  tragacanth  to  have  vesi- 
cated the  skin  of  the  forearm.  It  has  been  used  to  produce  vesication  when  applied  on 
adhesive  plaster  after  being  melted.  The  operation  is  said  to  be  painless.  Its  taste, 
even  in  a watery  solution,  is  somewhat  acrid  and  bitter,  causing  a sense  of  burning  in 
the  throat,  and  sometimes  in  the  stomach  also,  and  producing  more  or  less  salivation. 


456 


CHLORAL. 


In  enema  it  occasions  heat  and  irritation  in  the  rectum,  and  its  subcutaneous  injection  is 
not  only  painful,  but  is  apt  to  be  followed  by  sloughing. 

Chloral  allays  pain  and  produces  sleep,  but  less  perfectly,  than  opiates.  It  seldom 
produces  the  untoward  effects  of  opium,  such  as  nausea,  dryness  of  the  fauces,  constipa- 
tion, anorexia,  dysury,  headache,  giddiness,  or  malaise ; nor,  except  in  very  large  doses, 
does  it  occasion  anaesthesia.  Indeed,  the  effects  of  occasional  and  appropriate  doses 
closely  resemble  natural  sleep,  except  that  the  face  is  flushed  and  the  pupils  are  more  or  less 
contracted ; the  patient  may  sometimes  even  be  temporarily  awakened  to  take  food  or  to  obey 
a call  of  nature  without  interfering  permanently  with  its  soporific  action.  As  in  natural 
sleep,  respiration  and  circulation  are  retarded  and  the  temperature  is  slightly  lowered. 
The  pupils  are  contracted  and  insensible  to  light.  Exceptions  to  these  statements  may 
be  found  in  certain  cases  in  which  the  sleep  is  restless  or  unrefreshing,  or  in  which  a 
state  of  delirious  excitement  exists,  and  in  which  the  conjunctiva  becomes  injected  and 
the  eyelids  swollen,  or  in  which  there  is  subsequently  experienced  a degree  of  dulness  or 
headache  or  sick  stomach,  or  a partial  loss  of  power  in  the  limbs.  Numerous  cases  are 
reported  of  violent  delirium  produced  by  this  preparation  (Kane,  Phila.  Med.  Times , xi. 
225).  According  to  Bouchut,  children  can  take  chloral  with  much  less  danger  than 
adults. 

Like  chloroform,  chloral  sometimes  produces  poisonous,  and  even  fatal,  effects  without 
its  being  possible  to  explain  them  by  its  excessive  dose  or  by  any  special  condition  of  the 
patient.  Death  has  resulted  from  the  use  of  even  10  grains  of  the  drug.  The  phe- 
nomena of  acute  chloral-poisoning  usually  denote  failure  of  the  heart’s  action.  They 
include  faintness,  feeble  pulse,  fluttering  heart,  paralyzed  and  cold  extremities,  a sense 
of  sinking,  pallor,  and  partial  lividity  of  the  face ; in  a word,  the  phenomena  of 
syncope. 

A state  of  chronic  disorder,  which  may  be  called  chloralism,  and  is  sometimes  very 
persistent,  comprises  many  of  the  following  phenomena:  mental  hebetude  and  irritability, 
hallucinations,  insanity,  emotional  excitability  and  obstinate  insomnia,  loss  of  memory, 
with  physical  incapacity  for  exertion,  and  extreme  prostration  on  attempting  it;  uncer- 
tainty of  movement  and  a tendency  to  fall  forward,  or  absolute  inability  to  stand  or  walk 
or  perform  various  co-ordinated  movements,  as  writing,  articulation,  etc. 

Chloral  appears  to  be  indicated  when  sleeplessness  is  dependent  upon  a vascularity  due 
to  exhaustion  rather  than  to  primary  excitement  of  the  brain  ; thus  it  has  been  found 
useful  where  loss  of  sleep  follows  severe  and  prolonged  mental  application  or  excitement 
of  feeling,  or  accompanies  the  general  debility  following  acute  diseases  attended  with 
delirium  or  severe  pain,  or  is  associated  with  acute  mania , especially  of  the  puerperal 
form.  The  somewhat  analogous  condition  which  exists  in  delirium  tremens  is  very 
amenable  to  this  medicine,  especially  in  the  forming  stage  of  the  affection  known  as  “ the 
horrors,”  and  which  so  frequently  follows  surgical  injuries  in  drunkards ; it  is  useful  also 
when  great  nervous  excitement  and  restlessness  are  associated  with  extravagant  phan- 
tasms. Nevertheless,  its  depressing  effects  are  to  he  guarded  against  in  this  affection  as 
well  as  in  the  different  forms  of  insanity.  “ The  tide  of  opinion  seems  to  have  set 
directly  against  its  use,  save  in  certain  cases  and  under  certain  conditions  ” of  the  latter 
disease.  The  weight  of  authority  is  opposed  to  it,  partly  upon  the  ground  that  it 
tends  to  suddenly  depress  the  heart  and  the  nervous  system,  and  partly  because  it 
aggravates  the  delirium  in  many  cases.  (Compare  Kane,  Med.  Record , xix.  60.)  The 
grounds  of  this  condemnation  are  distinctly  and  emphatically  set  forth  by  Weiss  (Cen- 
tralblatt  f Therapie , i.  119),  who  from  a large  experience  shows  that  the  medicine  does 
more  harm  by  its  depressing  than  good  by  its  hypnotic  influence  in  all  protracted 
maniacal  seizures,  and  by  its  continued  use  induces  a cachectic  condition  that  prolongs 
and  even  perpetuates  the  disease.  He  charges  it  with  the  production  of  numerous  lesions 
from  decubitus  (ulcers,  etc.)  in  the  paralytic  and  chronic  insane,  and,  in  a word,  as  a 
double-edged  sword  that,  while  it  overcomes  maniacal  manifestations,  tends  to  undermine 
the  powers  of  life.  In  a case  of  poisoning  by  g1^  gr.  of  hydrochloraie  of  hyoscine , chloral 
in  10-grain  doses  repeated  every  quarter  of  an  hour,  seems  to  have  arrested  the  convul- 
sions and  secured  recovery  ( Practitioner , xxxvii.  370). 

Although  far  inferior  for  the  relief  of  pain , chloral  is  a very  useful  substitute  for 
opium  and  its  preparations  in  many  cases  in  which  the  pain  is  of  moderate  intensity  or 
when  an  idiosyncrasy  exists  which  renders  these  medicines  ineligible.  Pain  in  nervous 
trunks  and  extremities,  particularly  in  neuralgia,  whether  of  central  or  peripheral  origin, 
in  toothache,  lead-colic,  cancer,  and  tumors  compressing  nerves,  is  more  or  less  palliated 
by  chloral.  But  its  anodyne  influence  is  very  transient,  and  when  it  passes  off  the  pain 


CHLORAL. 


457 


appears  to  be  intensified.  This  remark  applies  also  to  the  use  of  chloral  in  nervous 
headache.  It  has  been  employed  with  advantage  in  cases  of  angina  pectoris  unconnected 
with  obstructive  disease  or  degeneration  of  the  heart ; but  it  should  be  used  with 
extreme  caution,  if  at  all,  whenever,  from  these  or  other  causes,  the  action  of  the  heart 
is  irregular,  feeble,  or  tumultuous.  Chloral  is  very  efficient  during  labor  in  producing 
those  effects  for  which  chloroform  and  ether  are  commonly  employed ; that  is  to  say,  for 
allaying  fruitless  and  excessive  pains  and  permitting  rhythmical  contractions  of  the 
uterus  to  occur ; for  promoting  dilatation  of  the  os  uteri ; for  procuring  repose  for  the 
mother  during  prolonged  labor ; and  for  quieting  alarm  and  allaying  nervous  irritability. 
It  should  be  given  in  doses  of  not  less  than  Gm.  2 (30  grains),  repeated  every  half-hour 
until  the  desired  effect  is  produced.  The  vomiting  of  pregnancy,  originating  in  uterine 
irritation,  may  be  allayed  or  arrested  by  enemas  of  from  Gm.  1.30-4  (20  to  60  grains) 
of  chloral. 

Among  spasmodic  affections,  tetanus,  especially  of  the  subacute  form,  has  proved  very 
amenable  to  this  remedy,  administered  hypodermically  and  also  by  the  mouth  and  rectum. 
Statistics  appear  to  show  that  the  mortality  under  its  use  is  rather  less  than  under  that 
of  curare,  Calabar  bean,  and  other  medicines.  It  is  said  that  in  the  more  acute  and 
active  forms  of  the  disease  its  efficacy  is  less  demonstrable,  but  in  three  acute  cases  out 
of  four  occurring  in  the  Pennsylvania  Hospital  cure  followed  the  use  of  chloral.  The 
tetanic  spasm  produced  by  strychnine-poisoning  is  equally  under  its  control ; it  seems  to 
reduce  the  force  and  frequency  of  the  paroxysms,  but  a lethal  dose  of  strychnine  cannot 
be  combated  by  an  adequate  dose  of  chloral,  for  the  latter  would  be  equally  dangerous  to 
life.  A summary  may  here  be  given  of  Th.  Husemann’s  conclusions  after  a thorough 
rational  and  experimental  investigation  of  this  subject  in  animals:  There  is  no  reciprocal 
antagonism  between  chloral  and  strychnine.  But  an  animal  under  the  influence  of 
chloral  will  escape  the  effects  of  five  or  six  times  the  minimum  lethal  dose  of  strychnine, 
or  even  of  much  larger  doses  of  the  latter,  so  long  as  the  proper  toxical  effects  of  the 
chloral  are  not  developed.  In  this  way,  even  when  it  does  not  prevent  death,  it  may 
greatly  delay  it.  In  animals,  and  also  in  man,  its  power  of  saving  life  in  strychnine- 
poisoning  depends  very  much  upon  its  ability  to  prevent  or  to  moderate  the  spasms 
which,  if  unchecked,  hasten  so  greatly  the  fatal  issue  by  exhausting  the  nervons  centres 
and  lowering  the  temperature.  (Compare  Faucon,  Archives  generates , Jan.  1883,  pp. 
74,  153,  who  advises  that  chloral  should  be  administered  hypodermically  as  well  as  by 
the  mouth,  and  even  by  the  veins.)  In  some  instances  of  tonic  spasm  its  effects  have 
been  beneficial.  It  has  been  used  to  mitigate  the  fits  of  epilepsy  by  giving  it  before  their 
regular  hour  of  recurrence  when  they  are  periodical.  It  may  lessen  the  movements  in 
paralysis  agitans.  Puerperal  convulsions  are  perhaps  more  amenable  to  the  influence 
of  chloral  than  any  other  form  of  spasmodic  disease,  although  it  is  far  from  being  a 
certain  remedy.  To  ensure  its  favorable  action  it  should  be  given  in  doses  of  not  less  than 
Gm.  1—1.30  (gr.  xv-xx),  repeated  every  fifteen  minutes  until  its  appropriate  effects  appear. 
Its  use  in  infantile  convulsions  is  common,  but  its  utility  is  not  clearly  proved.  In  a 
case  of  hydrophobia  the  medicine  was  found  to  control  the  active  symptoms  completely, 
but  the  patient  died  by  syncope  (Gunning).  A case  of  supposed  hydrophobia,  reported 
by  Broadbent  as  recovering  under  the  use  of  chloral,  was  considered  by  some  members 
of  the  Clinical  Society  of  London  as  being  of  a different  nature  ( Times  and  Gaz.,  March, 
1883,  p.  308).  The  treatment  of  chorea,  with  chloral  has  not  been  encouraging,  and  the 
same  may  be  said  of  insanity , and,  indeed,  of  all  diseases  in  which  the  medicine  must 
continue  to  be  used  for  a long  time.  In  chorea,  however,  it  displays  a decided  control 
over  the  spasmodic  element  of  the  disease,  and  must  be  regarded  as  a valuable  adjuvant 
in  the  cure  of  cases  depending  upon  definite  blood-disorder,  nervous  shock,  or  reflex 
irritation.  In  some  uncomplicated  cases  it  suffices  for  the  cure,  especially  if  given  in 
full  doses.  It  appears  to  have  been  very  serviceable  in  laryngismus  stridulus  when  taken 
by  children  six  months  old  in  doses  of  2 grains  three  times  a day.  It  has  been  recom- 
mended in  the  form  of  an  atomized  solution  of  10  grains  to  the  ounce  as  a remedy  for 
the  “ winter  cough  ” of  old  persons.  In  whooping  cough  it  is  of  service  by  mitigating  the 
violence  of  the  paroxysms  and  preventing  the  loss  of  strength  occasioned  by  their 
occurrence  at  night.  It  sometimes  also  appears  to  shorten  the  duration  of  the  attack. 
In  other  varieties  of  cough  it  is  a useful  palliative,  but  is  not  to  be  compared  with  opium. 
The  paroxysms  of  nervous  asthma  are  sometimes  very  favorably  modified  by  this  medi- 
cine, but  it  is  unsuited  for  the  continuous  treatment  of  so  chronic  a disease  It  is  one 
of  the  best  remedies  for  obstinate  hiccup.  There  is  an  alleged  physiological  antagonism 
between  chloral  and  Calabar  bean , but  it  is  exhibited  only  when  the  doses  of  the  two 


458 


CHLORAL. 


agents  are  fully  proportioned  and  the  chloral  is  administered  within  a very  few  minutes 
after  the  bean.  Organic  diseases  of  the  heart , and  especially  of  the  aortic  orifice  and 
muscular  degeneration,  are  contraindications  to  the  use  of  chloral,  because  it  tends  to 
lessen  the  vigor  of  that  organ.  It  should  rarely  be  used  in  substantial  diseases  of  the 
stomach,  the  pharynx,  or  the  larynx  on  account  of  its  irritant  properties,  nor  in  any  case 
of  pulmonary  obstruction. 

A mixture  of  chloral  and  morphine  has  been  used  by  Trelat  to  produce  partial  anaes- 
thesia for  surgical  purposes,  and  either  exclusively  for  minor  operations  or  as  prepara- 
tory to  the  use  of  chloroform  in  graver  ones.  It  is  contended  that  in  this  manner  the 
dangers  of  the  latter  agent  are  diminished,  both  by  the  action  of  the  morphine  and  by  the 
smaller  quantity  of  the  anaesthetic  required  (Choquet,  1880).  Equal  parts  of  camphor 
and  chloral  form  an  excellent  topical  anodyne  in  neuralgia.  Chloral  hydrate,  sprinkled 
on  adhesive  plaster  and  melted  with  a gentle  heat,  acts  as  a vesicant  within  ten  minutes 
when  applied  to  the  skin.  It  has  been  said  that  healing  takes  place  underneath  the 
plaster,  but,  on  the  other  hand,  ulceration,  and  even  gangrene,  may  ensue  if  the  action  is 
too  long  maintained.  This  mode  of  vesication  is  convenient  and  efficient  when  applied 
over  the  tender  parts  of  a neuralgic  nerve.  A 50  per  cent,  solution  of  chloral  has  been 
applied  in  pharyngeal  diphtheria  by  means  of  a brush  at  intervals  of  half  an  hour,  with 
the  effect  of  loosening  the  false  membrane.  After  the  separation  of  the  latter  a weaker 
solution,  applied  at  longer  intervals,  appeared  to  hasten  the  cure.  This  efficacy  of 
chloral  has  been  alleged  by  Mercier,  who,  however,  gave  the  medicine  in  a syrup 
containing  20  per  cent,  of  the  drug  (Amer.  Journ.  Med.  Sci .,  April,  1888,  p.  396). 
The  combined  deodorizing,  antiseptic,  and  stimulating  qualities  of  chloral  have  caused 
various  applications  of  it,  especially  as  a surgical  dressing.  A solution  of  1 part  in  100 
of  water  has  been  found  sufficiently  strong.  This  is  applied  on  lint  to  unhealthy  sur- 
faces, such  as  gangrenous,  indolent,  erysipelatous,  diphtheritic,  cancerous,  mercurial, 
and  carious  ideers,  or  as  an  injection  for  parts  not  so  easily  reached,  as  in  cases  of 
dysentery.  It  has  been  recommended  internally  (Curci)  in  acute  dysentery  and  in 
typhoid  fever , but  should  unequivocally  be  condemned,  as  well  as  in  the  treatment  of 
the  acute  gastro-enteritis  of  children.  It  corrects  the  fetor  and  lessens  the  discharge 
in  ozsena,  for  which  purpose  a solution  of  1 part  in  200  to  300  may  be  applied  by 
a syringe  or  the  nasal  douche.  A solution  of  1 or  2 parts  in  100  corrects  fetor  of  the 
feet.  A solution  of  7 grs.  to  an  ounce  of  brandy  and  water  is  said  to  be  an  efficient 
lotion  in  the  night-sweats  of  phthisis.  Stronger  solutions,  containing  from  Gm.  1.30-2 
(gr.  xx-xxx)  of  chloral  to  Gm.  32  (fjj)  of  water,  have  been  used  to  prevent  the  decom- 
position of  animal  tissues  immersed  in  them,  which  they  are  stated  to  do  without  injur- 
ing the  color  or  the  texture.  They  have  also  been  successfully  employed  to  inject  dead 
bodies  used  for  dissection.  A solution  of  1 part  in  20  of  water  forms  an  excellent  lotion 
in  pityriasis  of  the  scalp,  and  sometimes  cures  the  disease  if  it  is  recent.  Such  a solu- 
tion has  been  applied  to  chapped  nipples.  A 10  per  cent,  solution  of  chloral  injected  into 
an  erectile  tumor  has  effected  its  cure,  and  a like  result  has  followed  in  varicocele.  A 
1 or  2 per  cent,  solution  has  been  found  an  efficient  injection  in  gonorrhoea. 

Poisoning  by  chloral  should  be  treated  by  the  same  general  method  which  is  applicable 
to  other  forms  of  narcotism,  including  cold  to  the  head  and  neck,  the  use  of  coffee  or 
caffeine,  galvanism  applied  to  the  diaphragm,  mechanical  stimulants,  such  as  friction  and 
flagellation,  etc.  Atropine  and  digitalis  have  been  employed  to  stimulate  and  tonify 
the  heart,  and  nitrite  of  amyl  for  an  analogous  purpose.  Carbonate  of  ammonium  has 
been  injected  into  the  veins.  Strychnine  has  also  been  used  as  a physiological  antidote 
to  chloral.  It  would  seem  to  be  appropriate,  so  far  as  it  tends  to  rouse  the  activity 
of  the  spinal  cord,  but  it  does  not  tend  to  diminish  the  action  of  chloral  upon  the  brain. 
But  clinical  evidence  leaves  no  doubt  of  the  efficacy  of  strychnine  in  chloral-poisoning. 
Its  first  effect  is  to  reduce  the  abnormal  frequency  of  the  pulse  and  increase  its  volume, 
while  it  causes  the  respiratory  act  to  be  fuller  (Moore,  Med.  News , xli.  566;  DaCosta, 
Phila.  Med.  Times , xiii.  421).  A hypodermic  injection  of  2 minims  of  “ solution  of 
strychnine,”  Br.  Ph.  (gr.  -gL-),  may  be  given  at  intervals  of  about  half  an  hour.  It  is 
of  the  utmost  importance  to  combat  the  singular  coldness  which  the  poison  tends  to 
produce  by  means  of  artificial  heat,  such  as  hot  cloths,  bottles,  sand,  etc.,  applied  over 
the  heart,  to  the  spine  and  extremities,  and  by  small  and  repeated  doses  of  alcohol,  which 
may  be  administered  by  the  mouth  or  rectum  or  hypodermically.  The  treatment  of  the 
chloral  habit  must  consist  in  the  withdrawal  of  the  noxious  agent  and  the  use  of  hygienic 
and  medicinal  tonics.  It  is  alleged  that  Indian  hemp  appeases  the  desire  for  the  drug 
and  improves  the  appetite  ( Lancet , Mar.  1889,  p.  625). 


CHLORAL. 


459 


Chloral  is  too  irritating  for  ordinary  hypodermic  use,  but  in  strychnine-poisoning  it 
may  be  so  administered  in  the  dose  of  from  Gm.  0.60-1.20  (gr.  x-xx).  This  operation 
is  apt  to  be  followed  by  abscess.  Its  injection  into  the  veins  may  be  mentioned  only  to 
be  condemned.  By  the  mouth  the  average  dose  for  an  adult  is  between  Gm.  0.60-2.00 
(gr.  x-xxx),  which  may  be  repeated  at  intervals  of  one  or  two  hours.  In  convulsive 
disorders  much  larger  doses  may  be  required.  For  children  about  Gm.  0.05  (gr.  j)  may 
be  prescribed  for  each  year  of  the  child’s  age.  The  solution  should  be  flavored  with  an 
agreeable  syrup  ; peppermint-water  masks  its  taste  effectually.  Enemas  of  chloral  may 
be  prepared  by  dissolving  from  Gm.  1-4  (gr.  xv-lx)  of  the  compound  in  a little  water, 
rubbing  up  the  solution  with  the  yelk  of  egg,  and  mixing  it  with  a sufficient  quantity  of 
milk.  Suppositories  may  be  made  as  follows:  Cocoa-butter,  spermaceti,  of  each  2?  Gm.; 
powdered  chloral,  ^ Gm.:  or,  cocoa-butter  2 Gm. ; spermaceti,  powdered  chloral,  of  each 
3 Gm.,  for  one  suppository  (Mayet).  The  ready  solubility  of  chloral  hydrate  in  fatty 
excipients  has  led  to  the  preparation  of  the  following  for  external  use : Chloral  6 parts, 
almond  oil  30  parts  ; or  chloral  7 parts,  lard  27  parts,  white  wax  3 parts ; or,  for  a plaster, 
chloral  1 part,  white  wax  2 parts,  cocoa-butter  2£  parts. 

Dr.  Markoe  has  shown  that  chloral  hydrate  should  not  be  associated  with  bromide  of 
potassium  or  of  sodium,  unless  in  diluted  mixtures.  In  a concentrated  alcoholic  mixture 
the  chloral  will  rise  to  the  surface  as  an  alcoholate.  The  addition  of  more  water  or 
alcohol  *will  render  the  solution  perfect.  Dr.  Sherwin  ( Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Join'., 
Nov.  1886,  p.  487)  states  that  chloral  will  reduce  the  copper  when  added  to  Fehling’s 
test  for  diabetic  sugar,  and  hence  may  lead  to  grave  errors. 

Hypnal. — Dujardin-Beaumetz,  who  introduced  this  preparation  in  1885,  regarded 
it  as  soporific  rather  than  anodyne.  Its  action  was  compared  to  that  of  chloral  and  also 
of  paraldehyde.  In  the  dose  of  6-8  drops  it  usually  caused  tranquil  sleep,  but  many 
persons  did  not  feel  its  influence.  Some  immediately  after  swallowing  it  complained  of 
heat  in  the  throat  and  stomach,  pricking  in  the  nostrils,  a slight  cough,  and  even  nausea 
or  retching.  Offensive  eructations  (of  acetone)  were  apt  to  follow.  Headache  and  slow- 
ing of  the  pulse  were  noted  among  its  remoter  effects.  The  sleep  produced  by  it  is  said 
to  be  calm,  and  the  awaking  not  attended  with  unpleasant  feelings.  These  conclusions, 
were  more  or  less  confirmed  by  Yigier,  Limousin,  Lailler,  Van  Schuder  (1887),  and  Pensato, 
who  also  assigned  to  the  medicine  antiseptic  powers,  and  denied  that  it  depressed  the 
heart.  They  were  opposed  by  those  of  Hirt,  who  found  it  absolutely  null  in  its  action  when 
employed  by  him  in  hospital  practice  (Centralbl.  f.  d.g.  Ther iv.  260).  Already  in  1886 
its  effects  were  said  to  be  illusory,  and  itself  doomed  to  oblivion  ( Therap . Gaz.,  x.  699), 
and  Mairet  and  Combemale  found  it  a feeble  hypnotic  with  a tendency  to  induce  coma 
and  paralysis  of  the  heart  and  lungs  ( Am . Jour.  Med.  Sci.,  July,  1887,  p.  528),  while  in 
1889,  Jastrowitz  declared  it  unsafe  and  unreliable,  and  that  it  had  fallen  into  disuse 
( Therap.  Gaz.  xxii.,  647).  But  a more  recent  experimenter  declares  it  to  combine  the 
virtues  of  chloral  and  antipyrine,  and  to  be  appropriate  for  sleeplessness  caused  by  pain 
(Frankel,  Bull,  de  Therap.,  cxix.  249). 

Hypnal  cannot  be  relied  upon  to  secure  sleep  for  those  who  cough  or  suffer  pain,  but 
only  when  wakefulness  is  due  to  nervous  exeitement. 

It  is  best  administered  in  capsules  each  containing  about  4 drops  dissolved  in 
almondoil. 

Somnal,  which  belongs  to  the  same  group  of  compounds,  has  been  condemned  as  a 
very  uncertain  hypnotic,  and  as  exerting  a dangerous  action  on  the  heart. 

Ural  exhibits  hypnotic  qualities  in  doses  of  Gm.  1-3  (gr.  xv-xlv),  but  has  no  special 
advantages. 

CHLORAL  BUTYLICUM. — Butylchloral  Hydrate. 

Butyl-chloral  hydras,  Br.  ; Croton-chloral  Hydrate , wrongly  so  called. — Hydrate  de 
chloral  butylique,  Fr. ; Bufylchloralhydrat,  G. 

Formula  C4H5C130.H20.  Molecular  weight  192.91. 

Preparation. — It  is  prepared  by  passing  chlorine  gas  into  acetic  aldehyde,  C2H40, 
which  should  be  placed  in  a refrigerating  mixture  to  lessen  the  violence  of  the  reaction. 
The  apparatus  is  connected  with  a reversed  condenser,  which  carries  the  condensable 
products  back  into  the  flask,  while  the  uncondensable  gases  are  allowed  to  escape.  Grad- 
ually the  temperature  is  permitted  to  rise  until  the  hot  liquid  ceases  to  absorb  the  chlo- 
rine gas.  The  mass  is  now  subjected  to  repeated  fractional  distillation  until  a product 
is  obtained  boiling  uniformly  between  163°  and  165°  C.  (325.4°  and  329°  F.),  which  is 


460 


CHLORAL  BUTYLICUM. 


butylchloral,  and  by  dissolving  in  water  and  crystallizing  the  hydrate  is  obtained.  That 
portion  of  the  crude  product  distilling  at  a lower  temperature  requires  treatment  with 
sulphuric  acid  to  decompose  the  hydrate  contained  in  it,  and  subsequent,  fractional 
distillation. 

Properties. — Butylchloral  is  a colorless  oil  heavier  than  water,  of  a peculiar  odor 
somewhat  like  that  of  ordinary  chloral.  The  hydrate  crystallizes  from  water  in  thin 
white  scales  of  a silky  lustre,  a peculiar  somewhat  fruit-like  odor,  a warm  bitterish  taste, 
and  a neutral  reaction.  It  melts  at  78°  C.  (172.4°  F.)  to  a colorless  clear  liquid,  and  at 
a higher  heat  vaporizes  without  leaving  any  residue.  It  is  freely  soluble  in  alcohol  and 
ether,  from  which  it  crystallizes  unaltered,  is  soluble  in  cold  water  with  difficulty,  freely 
soluble  in  glycerin  and  hot  water,  and  volatilizes  with  the  vapors  of  boiling  water.  By 
soda  and  other  alkalies  it  undergoes  decomposition  in  a manner  analogous  to  the  official 
chloral  under  the  same  conditions,  but  does  not  yield  chloroform,  yielding  bichlorallylene , 
C3H2C12,  sodium  formate  and  chloride.  The  alcoholic  solution  of  butylchloral  acidulated 
with  nitric  acid  does  not  yield  a precipitate  with  silver  nitrate.  Its  solutions  gradu- 
ally undergo  decomposition,  and  should  therefore  not  be  kept  on  hand  except  for  a 
short  time. 

Composition — When  Kramer  and  Pinner  first  obtained  this  body  (1870)  they  con- 
sidered it  to  be  crotonchloral , C4H3C130,  but  have  since  (1875)  ascertained  that  it  is  tri- 
chlorbutylaldehyde , which  is  butylaldehyde,  C4H80,  with  3H  replaced  by  3C£  The 
hydrate  contains  a little  over  9 per  cent,  of  water. 

Action  and  Uses. — In  the  dose  of  from  10  to  30  grains  butyl  chloral  occasions,  in 
the  course  of  from  five  to  ten  minutes,  a sense  of  heaviness,  confusion  of  ideas,  and 
dulness  of  the  senses ; cutaneous  sensibility  is  blunted,  in  the  face  first,  and  afterward  in 
the  limbs,  motility  being  at  the  same  time  more  or  less  impaired.  In  from  ten  to  thirty 
minutes  sleep  sets  in  ; it  is  deep  and  tranquil,  and  while  it  lasts  neither  respiration,  cir- 
culation, temperature,  nor  muscular  tone  is  greatly  affected.  On  the  return  of  conscious- 
ness some  dulness  or  lightness  of  the  head  may  be  experienced,  but  it  soon  passes  off. 
The  most  striking  peculiarity  of  these  symptoms  is  the  conservation  of  muscular  tone. 
It  was  pointed  out  by  Liebreich  in  his  original  communication  respecting  “ croton-chloral 
hydrate. ” He  described  two  maniacs  to  whom  it  was  administered  as  “ remaining  quietly 
sitting  on  their  chairs  in  a deep  sleep  for  two  whole  hours  together.”  In  medicinal  doses 
it  does  not  appear  to  derange  the  stomach,  but  its  acrid  taste,  which  persists  in  the  throat, 
may  excite  nausea,  and  even  vomiting.  Very  large  doses  may  cause  both  vomiting  and 
diarrhoea,  and  the  former  effect  has  been  induced  by  the  hypodermic  administration  of 
the  medicine. 

Butyl-chloral  hydrate  is  anodyne  or  anaesthetic  rather  than  narcotic.  The  indications 
for  its  employment  were  originally  stated  to  be — 1,  its  substitution  for  chloral  hydrate 
in  cases  of  heart  disease ; 2,  in  neuralgia  of  the  trigeminus  ; 3,  when  very  large  doses 
of  hydrate  of  chloral  are  necessary  to  produce  sleep.  In  the  last  case  it  was  recom- 
mended to  associate  the  two  hypnotics.  Experience  has  proved  that  it  is  of  little  use 
even  in  neuralgia  unless  the  pain  affect  the  fifth  pair.  In  that  form  of  the  disease,  how- 
ever, it  is  a most  useful  anodyne.  If  doses  of  Gm.  0.30-1.30  (gr.  v-xx)  are  given 
at  intervals  of  fifteen  or  thirty  minutes,  the  pain  is  apt  to  be  palliated  even  before  sleep 
is  induced.  In  this  manner  it  has  proved  very  useful  in  cases  of  painful  spasm  (tic  dou- 
loureux) of  the  face.  In  ordinary  facial  neuralgia  occuring  in  young  persons,  and  especially 
in  anaemic  women  and  girls,  it  is  peculiarly  efficient.  It  is  also  serviceable  in  nervous 
headache , and  is  a palliative  of  dysmenorrhoea.  In  soms  cases  of  insomnia — such,  for 
instance,  as  are  frequent  in  chronic  phthisis — a dose  at  bedtime  of  from  Gm.  0.30-1.0 
(gr.  v— xv)  is  useful,  but  its  primary  effect  is  not  maintained,  and  larger  doses  become 
necessary.  Butyl  chloral  is  contraindicated  by  hypersemia  of  the  brain,  by  an  irritable 
condition  of  the  gastro-intestinal  mucous  membrane,  and  by  diseases  which  impair  the 
vigor  of  the  heart. 

It  may  be  given  as  a soporific  in  doses  of  from  Gm.  0.20-0.60  (gr.  iij — x)  but  the 
smaller  dose  is  preferable,  and  may  be  repeated  at  intervals  of  an  hour  or  less  until  the 
due  effect  is  obtained.  Females  are  much  more  readily  than  men  affected  by  small 
doses.  Much  larger  doses  have  been  recommended,  as  from  8 to  15  grains,  and  even 
from  Gm.  0.40-1.00,  2.00-4.00  (gr.  xxx-lx)  ; but  they  can  rarely  be  necessary  or  safe. 
The  extreme  bitterness  of  the  medicine  requires  it  to  be  administered  in  a solution  capa- 
ble of  masking  its  taste,  such  as  glycerin  and  syrup  flavored  with  essence  of  peppermint, 
or,  still  better,  in  syrup  of  liquorice-root.  It  may  also  be  given  in  a mixture  of  the  fol- 
lowing description  : butyl-chloral  hydrate  5 to  10  parts ; glycerin  20  parts ; distilled 


CHLORALUM  FORM  AMID  ATUM. 


461 


water  130  parts;  the  mixture  to  be  shaken  before  it  is  used.  The  dose  of  this  prepa- 
ration is  half  an  aunce,  followed  in  five  minutes  by  a second,  and  in  ten  minutes  by  a 
third.  It  is  well  to  begin  with  a small  dose,  so  as  to  avoid  hypnotism,  when  the  anaes- 
thetic effect  alone  is  desired ; but  to  produce  sleep,  from  Gm.  1-3  (gr.  xv-xlv),  accord- 
ing to  the  patient’s  constitution,  may  be  given  at  bedtime.  As  a topical  application  for 
the  relief  of  neuralgia  a mixture  of  equal  parts  of  butyl  chloral  and  tincture  of  camphor 
may  be  applied.  Its  hypodermic  use  is  not  recommended,  on  account  of  the  abscesses 
it  occasions.  If  poisonous  effects  result  from  an  overdose,  it  is  advised  to  combat  them 
with  artificial  respiration  and  electricity  along  the  spine  at  the  superficial  portion  of  the 
pneumogastric  nerves,  while  stimulants  are  applied  to  the  extremities. 


CHLORALUM  FORMAMIDATUM,  T.  G.— Chloral  Formamide. 

Chloral  formaniidum. — Chloralamide , E.,  Fr. ; Chloral  formamid,  Chloralamid , G. 

Preparation. — Chloralamide  is  obtained  as  the  result  of  interaction  between  anhy- 
drous chloral  and  formamide,  and  must  be  looked  upon  as  an  addition  product  of  the  two 
bodies;  thus,  chloral  CCl3CHO  + formamide  CHONH2  = chloral  formamide  CC13CH.- 
OH.CONH2. 

Properties. — The  German  Pharmacopoeia  describes  chloral  formamide  as  occurring 
in  white  lustrous  crystals,  without  odor  and  having  a faintly  bitter  taste.  It  melts  at 
115°  C.  (239°  F.),  and  is  slowly  soluble  in  20  parts  of  cold  water  and  in  1?  parts  of 
alcohol.  By  water  heated  to  over  60°  C.  (140°  F.)  it  is  decomposed  into  chloral  hydrate 
and  ammonium  formate,  the  same  effect  being  produced  by  alkalies,  but  not  by  dilute 
acids. 

Tests. — “ A 10  per  cent,  alcoholic  solution  should  not  redden  blue  litmus-paper,  nor 
be  at  once  affected  by  addition  of  silver-nitrate  solution.  When  heated,  chloral  forma- 
mide should  volatilize  without  evolving  inflammable  vapors.” — P.  G. 

Chloralimide , a chloral  derivative  obtained  by  the  action  of  heat  on  chloral  ammonium, 
must  not  be  confounded  with  the  above.  Its  chemical  formula  is  CC13CHNH,  and  it 
occurs  in  long  crystalline  needles,  without  color,  taste,  and  odor,  melting  at  166°  C. 
(330.8°  F.),  and  insoluble  in  water,  but  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  chloroform,  and  fixed 
oils.  Chloralimide  is  very  stable,  being  unaffected  by  light,  air,  and  moisture.  Its  use 
has  been  almost  entirely  discontinued. 

Action  and  Uses. — As  a medicine,  Kny  (Therap.  Monatsh.,  iii.  345),  and  many 
others  more  recently,  who  employed  chloralamid  in  various  forms  of  insanity  (including 
mania  and  delirium  tremens),  found  that  it  always  failed  to  overcome  active  excitement, 
but  that  in  the  abscence  of  this  symptom  it  acted  favorably  as  a soporific.  A like  con- 
clusion was  reached  bty  Strahan  ( Lancet , Feb.  1890,  p.  339)  and  by  Kinneir  ( Med . Record , 
xxxviii.  41).  In  various  moderately  painful  affections  it  was  equally  efficient — e.  g.  in 
asthma , muscular  rheumatism , and  spinal  diseases — while  in  chorea  and  diseases  of  the 
heart  (Alt)  its  action  was  also  favorable.  In  the  insomnia  of  the  aged  it  was  very 
useful  unless  severe  pain  existed.  It  induces  sleep  in  from  fifteen  to  forty  minutes, 
which  continues  for  six  or  more  hours,  and  is  rarely  followed  by  any  unpleasant  effects. 
It  does  not  derange  the  digestion  nor  irritate  the  mucous  membrane,  and  its  taste  is  but 
slightly  and  transiently  bitter.  These  conclusions  have  been  confirmed  by  many 
observers,  including  Hagen  and  Hafter  ( Lancet , Aug.  1889,  p.  397),  Reichmann  ( Therap . 
Gaz .,  xiii.  612),  Peiper  (Centralbl.  f Therap .,  vii.  602),  Paterson  ( Lancet , Oct.  1889,  p. 
849),  and  Schaffer  ( Centralbl . f.  Tlierapie , viii.  89).  Occasionally  giddiness,  slight 
delirium,  nausea,  and  dry  mouth  have  followed  its  use,  and  in  rare  instances  it  has  seemed 
to  render  the  pulse  small  and  frequent,  according  to  Robinson  (7  herap . Monatsh .,  iv.  45), 
Umpfenbach  (ibid.,  p.  66),  and  Mairet  ( Annuaire  de  Therap .,  1890,  p.  227).  Cholral- 
amid,  in  doses  of  Gm.  1.5-4  (gr.  xx-lx),  may  be  admimistered  in  beer,  sweetened  wine, 
or  whiskey  and  water.  It  may  also  be  given  by  enema.  It  is  said  not  to  create  toler- 
ance as  readily  as  other  members  of  its  class.  On  the  whole,  however,  it  seems  to 
possess  no  superiority  over  chloral  hydrate,  and  to  be  less  reliable  in  its  action  than  that 
medicine. 


CHLOROFORMUM,  U.  S.,  Br.— Chloroform. 

Chloroformum  purifcatum,  U.  S.  1880  ; C hloroformium,  P.  G. ; Formylum  trichloratum. 
— Chloroforme , Fr. ; Chloroform.  G.  ; Cloroformio , It. ; Cloroformo , Sp. 

Formula  CHC13.  Molecular  weight  119.08, 


462 


CHLOROFORMUM. 


A liquid  containing  at  least  99  per  cent.,  by  weight,  of  absolute  chloroform,  and  not 
more  than  1 per  cent,  of  alcohol.  It  should  be  kept  in  dark  amber-colored  glass- 
stoppered  bottles  in  a cool  and  dark  place. — U.  S. 

Origin  and  Preparation.  — Chloral  is  f#rmed  from  alcohol  and  chlorine,  and,  on 
decomposing  chloral  by  an  alkali,  chloroform  and  a formate  of  the  alkali  are  produced ; 
the  conditions  for  these  two  reactions  are  present  on  bringing  together  alcohol  and  chlori- 
nated lime,  the  chlorine  of  which  converts  the  former  into  chloral,  which  is  at  once 
decomposed  by  the  calcium  hydroxide,  yielding  chloroform  and  calcium  formate,  Ca2CH02 
(see  Chloral).  Calcium  formate  is,  however,  not  found  in  the  residue  of  the  distillation, 
but  is  decomposed  by  another  portion  of  the  chlorinated  lime  into  calcium  carbonate  and 
chloride  and  water.  Omitting  all  intermediate  reactions,  and  using  for  chlorinated  lime 
the  formula  of  Odling  or  of  Stahlschmidt  (see  page  361),  the  final  result  is  expressed  by 
the  equations : 

2C2H5OH-bl0CaOCl2=2CHCl3+7CaCl2+2CaCO3-fCa(OH)24  4H9O, 
or  2C2H50II  + llCaHC102=CIICl3-l-4CaCl2+3CaC03+4Ca(0Il)2+7H20. 

The  theoretical  quantity  of  chloroform  obtainable  according  to  the  first  of  these  equa- 
tions would  be  33.6  per  cent.,  according  to  the  second  30.6  per  cent.,  of  the  weight  of 
available  chlorine  contained  in  the  chlorinated  lime ; by  working  on  the  large  scale  the 
yield  of  chloroform  ranges  between  22  and  24  per  cent. 

To  prepare  chloroform,  6 parts  of  the  assayed  chlorinated  lime  are  mixed  with  about 
24  parts  of  water,  and  the  mixture  strained  into  a still ; 1 part  of  stronger  alcohol  is  added, 
and  the  whole  heated  to  40°  C.  (122°  F.).  With  the  further  application  of  very  little  heat 
the  reaction  now  proceeds  rapidly,  the  temperature  rises,  and  the  chloroform,  mixed  with 
some  alcohol,  distils  over.  The  distillate  is  washed  with  water ; the  subsiding  layer  con- 
stitutes crude  chloroform.  The  washings  are  preserved  and  employed  in  a subsequent 
operation.  (For  papers  on  the  manufacture  of  chloroform  consult  Amer.  Jour.  Phar., 
1862,  pp.  25,  42 ; and  1868,  p.  289.) 

The  British  Pharmacopoeia  gives  a process  for  preparing  chloroform  in  which  less  water 
(18  parts  for  the  above  quantities)  is  used,  and  slaked  lime  is  put  into  the  still  with  the 
chlorinated  lime — an  addition  which  has  been  recommended  by  Siemerling,  Larocque,  and 
others,  but  seems  superfluous ; otherwise,  the  process  scarcely  differs  from  the  one  given, 
except  that  the  water  is  mixed  with  the  alcohol  and  the  solid  ingredients  are  mixed  with 
the  liquid  in  the  still. 

Thus  prepared,  crude  chloroform  varies  in  specific  gravity  between  1.45  and  1.49,  and 
imparts  to  strong  sulphuric  acid,  after  having  been  agitated  with  it,  a brownish  or  brown 
color,  the  degree  of  coloration  depending  upon  the  amount  of  impurities  present. 

Considerable  quantities  of  chloroform  are  obtained  on  a commercial  scale  by  the  action 
of  sodium  hydroxide  on  chloral  hydrate,  and,  as  the  following  equation  shows,  1 65  parts 
of  the  latter  are  capable  of  yielding  119  parts  of  chloroform,  sodium  formate  being  pro- 
duced at  the  same  time:  C2HC130.H20  -f-  NaOH  = CIIC13  + NaCH02  + H20. 

Since  1885  chloroform  has  been  made  on  a large  scale  by  what  is  known  as  the  acetone 
process.  Liebig  (1832)  pointed  out  that  chloroform  could  be  made  from  acetone  by 
treatment  with  bleaching  powder,  as  well  as  from  alcohol.  Large  quantities  of  pure 
acetone  are  now  made  by  destructive  distillation  of  calcium  acetate,  and  although  the 
statement  appears  in  Watt’s  Dictionary  of  Chemistry  that  acetone  will  yield  but  33  per 
cent,  of  chloroform,  it  has  in  practice  been  found  to  yield  as  much  as  200  per  cent., 
making  it  the  richest  chloroform-yielding  substance  known.  When  acetone  is  distilled 
with  chlorinated  lime,  chloroform  is  produced,  together  with  calcium  acetate,  hydrox- 
ide, and  chloride,  as  may  be  seen  from  the  following  equation  : 2(C3H60)  -f-  6(CaOCl2) 
= 2(CHC13)  + Ca(C2H302)2  + 2Ca(OH)2  + 3CaCl2.  The  chloroform  obtained  by  this 
method  (for  a full  account  see  Amer.  Jour.  Phar .,  1889)  is  quite  free  from  the  chlor- 
inated by-products  frequently  found  in  chloroform  made  from  alcohol. 

Chloroform  may  likewise  be  prepared  by  distilling  wood-spirit  (methylic  alcohol) 
with  chlorinated  lime.  Chautart  proposed  to  prepare  chloroform  from  oil  of  turpen- 
tine, but  Soubeiran  proved  that  chlorinated  lime  diffused  in  water  acts  violently 
upon  the  oil,  and  that  but  a little  chloroform  having  a turpentine  odor  is  obtained. 
Damoiseau  (1881)  thinks  that  pure  chloroform  may  be  advantageously  prepared  by  pass- 
ing a mixture  of  methyl  chloride,  CH3CI,  and  chlorine  in  proper  proportion  through  a 
long  tube  containing  animal  charcoal  and  heated  to  between  250°  and  350°  C.  (482°  and 
662°  F.). 


CHLOROFORMUM. 


4(33 


Purification. — Crude  chloroform  is  purified  by  treatment  with  strong  sulphuric 
acid  during  twenty-four  hours,  subsequent  washing  with  a solution  of  alkali  carbonate, 
and  final  rectification  over  lime ; at  a moderate  temperature  the  acid  removes  certain  by- 
products which  usually  accompany  the  crude  chloroform,  especially  if  made  by  the 
alcohol  process. 

Chloroform  which  fails  to  respond  to  the  pharmacopoeial  tests  the  U.  S.  P.  directs  to 
be  purified  by  the  following  process:  Chloroform,  400  Gm.  ; sulphuric  acid,  80  Gm. ; 
dried  sodium  carbonate,  20  Gm. ; deodorized  alcohol,  4 Cc. 

Add  the  sulphuric  acid  to  the  chloroform,  contained  in  a glass-stoppered  bottle,  and 
shake  them  together  occasionally  during  twenty-four  hours,  avoiding  exposure  to  bright 
daylight.  Separate  the  lighter  chloroform  layer,  add  to  it  the  dried  sodium  carbonate, 
previously  rendered  anhydrous  by  heating  it  in  a porcelain  capsule  on  a sand-bath,  until 
it  ceases  to  give  off  aqueous  vapor,  and  shake  them  together  frequently  and  thoroughly 
during  half  an  hour.  Then  transfer  the  chloroform  to  a dry  retort,  add  to  it  the  alcohol, 
and  distil,  by  means  of  a water-bath,  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  67.2°  C.  (153  F.), 
into  a well-cooled  tared  receiver,  until  the  distillate  weighs  380  Gm. — V.  S. 

Special  methods  have  recently  been  proposed  for  tbe  preparation  of  chemically  pure 
chloroform,  notably  that  of  Pictet  by  means  of  refrigeration  to — 82°  C.  ( — 147.6°  F.), 
at  which  point  the  pure  chloroform  is  obtained  in  solid  form,  to  be  subsequently  distilled 
at  a low  temperature  under  reduced  pressure.  II.  Anschutz  (1892)  proposed  the  for- 
mation of  a salicylide-chloroform,  to  be  obtained  in  crystallized  form  by  allowing  salicylide, 
C6H4COO,  and  also  ortho-homosalicylide,  CH3C6H4COO,  to  remain  in  contact  with  chloro- 
form for  twenty-four  hours ; the  compounds,  which  contain  33.24  and  30.8  per  cent, 
chloroform  respectiuely,  can  be  kept  in  closed  vessels  for  a long  period,  and  yield  the 
chloroform  by  distillation  very  readily,  the  union  being  a feeble  one  and  comparable  with 
water  of  crystallization.  None  of  the  impurities  have  been  found  to  form  crystallizable 
compounds  with  salicylide  or  ortho-homosalicylide,  and  the  latter  substances  may  be  used 
over  and  over  in  this  process. 

Properties. — The  U.  S.  P.  chloroform  is  a heavy,  colorless,  mobile,  and  diffusible 
liquid,  not  inflammable,  of  an  agreeable  ethereal  odor,  a hot  saccharine  taste,  and  of  a 
neutral  reaction.  It  is  soluble  in  about  200  parts  of  water,  to  which  it  imparts  its  taste, 
and  in  all  proportions  in  alcohol  and  ether;  also  in  benzene,  benzin,  and  fixed  or  volatile 
oils.  Sp.  gr.  1.490  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  or  1.473  at  25°  C.  (77°  F.).  It  boils  in  a dry 
flask  at  60°  to  61°  C.  (140°  to  141.8°  F.),  corresponding  to  the  presence  of  f to  1 per 
cent,  of  alcohol.  It  is  a solvent  for  paraffin,  gutta-percha,  caoutchouc,  many  resins, 
most  alkaloids,  iodine,  bromine,  etc. 

Pare  ( absolute ) chloroform  has  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  the  density  1.499  (Ilirsch),  is  very 
prone  to  change  when  in  contact  with  air  and  diffused  light ; it  keeps,  however,  entirely 
unaltered  in  direct  sunlight  if  the  air  has  been  completely  expelled  from  the  vessel. 
Chloroform  below  the  density  1.475  is  not  affected  by  light.  This  behavior  explains  the 
necessity  of  keeping  chloroform  of  1.49  protected  from  the  light,  which  is  not  required 
if  the  density  is  lowered  to  about  1.48  by  tbe  addition  of  11  per  cent,  of  alcohol.  The 
products  of  decomposition  have  the  suffocating  odor  of  phosgene  gas , COCl2,  redden 
and  often  bleach  moistened  blue  litmus,  and  liberate  iodine  from  potassium  iodide; 
even  an  incipient  decomposition  is  detected  by  evaporating  spontaneously  a drachm  of 
chloroform  with  a drop  of  neutral  solution  of  litmus,  which  will  thereby  acquire  a red 
color.  Regarding  the  stability  of  pure  chloroform  and  the  effect  of  light  upon  the  same, 
the  latest  investigations  of  Drs.  Schacht  and  Biltz  ( Phar . Jour,  and  Trans.,  June,  1893) 
have  clearly  established  the  fact  that  the  purer  the  chloroform  and  the  less  alcohol  pres- 
ent, the  more  readily  does  it  undergo  decomposition  when  exposed  to  light  in  the  pres- 
ence of  air.  The  decomposition-products  formed  are  free  chlorine  and  carbonyl  chloride 
(COCl2,  phosgene  gas),  but  in  the  presence  of  alcohol  the  chlorine  set  free  will  react 
with  the  same  and  yield  hydrochloric  acid ; the  presence  of  free  chlorine  may  therefore 
escape  detection  as  long  as  alcohol  is  present  as  such.  Chloroform  can  only  be  freed 
absolutely  from  alcohol  by  repeated  shaking  with  twice  its  volume  of  fresh  water,  and 
this  operation  must  be  repeated  at  least  ten  times ; when  thus  rendered  absolutely  pure 
it  has  the  specific  gravity  1.502  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  and  its  boiling-point  is  62.5°  C. 
(144.5°  F.).  Absolutely  pure  chloroform  will  readily  decompose  when  exposed  to  day- 
light, the  time  varying  from  one  to  ten  hours,  dependent  upon  the  intensity  of  the  sun- 
light ; the  presence  of  atmospheric  air  (oxygen),  however,  is  requisite  to  induce  decom- 
position, as  it  has  been  proven  by  Brown  (Phar.  Jour,  and  Trans.,  March,  1893)  that 
when  oxygen  is  rigidly  excluded  direct  sunlight  cannot  effect  decomposition  ; absolute 


464 


CHL  OROFORM  UM. 


chloroform  has  been  exposed  to  sunlight  in  a Torricellian  vacuum  for  five  months,  equal 
to  one  hundred  and  fifty-three  hours  of  sunshine,  without  change.  That  the  presence 
of  alcohol  retards,  and  even  prevents,  the  decomposition  of  chloroform  has  been  repeat- 
edly shown,  and,  according  to  the  above-named  investigators,  ? of  1 per  cent,  is  sufficient 
to  prevent  recognizable  decomposition  for  a month  or  longer,  J per  cent,  for  nearly 
twelve  months,  and  1 per  cent,  for  several  years.  Recent  experiments  made  by  Dr. 
Squibb  (spring  of  1893)  have  shown  that  chloroform  containing  0.625  per  cent,  of  92 
per  cent,  alcohol  (but  otherwise  pure)  may  be  exposed  in  half-filled  bottles,  cork-  or 
glass-stoppered,  to  daylight  (including  frequent  direct  sunshine)  for  forty-eight  days 
without  suffering  decomposition.  The  preservative  influence  of  alcohol  is  due  to  the 
fact  that  it  chemically  combines  with  the  deleterious  decomposition-products,  rendering 
them  harmless. 

Partially-decomposed  chloroform  may  be  restored  to  its  original  purity  by  agitating  it 
with  solution  of  sodium  carbonate  and  rectifying  it  afterward  over  a little  lime.  Pre- 
vious treatment  with  strong  sulphuric  acid  will  be  necessary  only  when  it  becomes  colored 
on  being  agitated  with  the  chloroform. 

When  chloroform  is  shaken  in  a perfectly  clean  glass-stoppered  vial  with  an  equal 
bulk  of  sulphuric  acid,  no  color  should  be  imparted  to  either  liquid  after  remaining  in 
contact  for  twenty-four  hours.  Should  a coloration  appear,  the  chloroform  must  be 
regarded  as  unfit  for  inhalation,  and  should  be  purefied  by  the  official  process.  When 
it  is  agitated  with  an  aqueous  solution  of  silver  nitrate  a white  precipitate  of  silver 
chloride  is  not  produced. 

Tests. — “ If  20  Cc.  of  chloroform  be  poured  upon  a round  paper  filter  laid  flat  upon  a 
warmed  porcelain  or  glass  plate,  and  the  plate  be  rocked  from  side  to  side  until  the  liquid 
is  all  evaporated  except  what  is  held  by  the  paper,  no  foreign  odor  should  become  per- 
ceptible as  the  last  portions  disappear  from  the  paper,  and  the  paper  should  be  left  odor- 
less. If  10  Cc.  of  chloroform  be  well  shaken  with  20  Cc.  of  water,  and  the  liquid  be 
allowed  to  separate  completely,  the  water  should  be  neutral  to  litmus-paper,  and  should 
not  affect  silver  nitrate  test-solution  (absence  of  chlorides),  potassium  iodide  test-solu- 
tion (absence  of  free  chlorine),  or  barium  hydroxide  test-solution  (absence  of  decomposition- 
products  from  chloroform).  If  40  Cc.  of  chloroform  be  shaken  with  4 Cc.  of  colorless, 
concentrated  sulphuric  acid  (absolutely  free  from  chlorine  compounds)  in  a 50  Cc.  glass- 
stoppered  cylinder  during  twenty  minutes,  and  the  liquids  be  then  allowed  to  separate 
completely,  so  that  both  are  transparent,  the  chloroform  should  remain  colorless,  and  the 
acid  should  appear  colorless  or  very  nearly  colorless  when  seen  in  a stratum  of  not  less 
than  about  1 Cm.  in  thickness  (absence  of  impurities  decomposable  by  sulphuric  acid).  If 
2 Cc.  of  the  sulphuric  acid,  separated  from  the  chloroform,  be  diluted  with  5 Cc.  of  water, 
the  liquid  should  be  colorless  and  clear,  and,  while  hot  from  the  mixing,  should  be  odor- 
less or  give  but  a faint  vinous  or  ethereal  odor  (absence  of  odorous  decomposition-prod- 
ucts). When  further  diluted  with  10  Cc.  of  water,  it  should  remain  clear,  and  should 
not  be  affected  by  silver  nitrate  test-solution  (absence  of  chlorinated  compounds.)  If  10 
Cc.  of  the  chloroform  separated  from  the  acid  be  well  shaken  with  20  Cc.  of  water,  and 
the  liquid  be  allowed  to  separate  completely,  the  watery  portion  should  not  be  affected 
by  silver  nitrate  test-solution  (absence  of  chlorinated  compounds).” — U.  S. 

Detection  of  Chloroform. — Chloroform  has  sometimes  been  used  for  the  adul- 
teration of  volatile  oils ; in  these  and  in  other  liquids  it  may  be  detected  by  distilling 
them  with  a little  alcohol  at  a temperature  of  about  65°  C.  (149°  F.).  Hager  (1868) 
recommended  the  treatment  of  this  distillate  with  zinc  and  sulphuric  acid,  when  the 
chloroform  will  be  decomposed  and  hydrochloric  acid  recognized  in  the  liquid  by  silver 
nitrate.  Lustgarten  (1882)  suggested  as  a reliable  test  the  transient  blue-green  color 
which  is  produced  on  warming  chloroform  with  naphthol  and  soda  solution.  A.  W.  Hof- 
mann (1870)  recommended  the  addition  of  the  alcoholic  liquid  to  a mixture  of  aniline  and 
alcoholic  solution  of  soda  and  warming,  when  the  characteristic  odor  of  isocyanides  will  be 
developed ; 1 part  of  chloroform  in  5000  to  6000  parts  of  alcohol  may  thus  be  detected, 
and  it  may  be  readily  distinguished  from  chlorethylidene , which  closely  resembles  chloro- 
form in  physical  properties.  All  compounds,  however,  which  on  treatment  with  an  alkali 
produce  chloroform,  iodoform,  or  bromoform  give  the  same  reaction. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Chloroform  is  used  as  a solvent  in  the  preparation  of 
atropine  and  other  alkaloids. 

Chloramyl,  recommended  by  Dr.  Sanford  (1879),  is  a mixture  of  chloroform  1 pound 
and  amyl  nitrite  2 drachms.  There  being  a chloride  and  several  chlorine  substitution- 
products  of  amyl,  the  name  does  not  appear  to  be  a proper  one, 


CIILOIiOFORMUM. 


465 


Action  and  Uses. — Chloroform  is  an  irritant,  producing  redness  of  the  skin  when 
topically  applied,  and  even  vesication  if  its  evaporation  is  prevented.  When  from  10  to 
20  minims  of  pure  chloroform  are  injected  subcutaneously,  very  considerable  pain  is 
experienced,  which,  however,  presently  subsides,  and  is  succeeded  by  a feeling  of  numb- 
ness and  by  anaesthesia  of  the  adjacent  parts ; a puffy  swelling  forms  at  the  seat  of  the 
injection,  and  an  induration  which  remains  for  several  days.  The  numbness  may  continue 
for  a week  or  more,  and  in  the  case  of  the  leg  may  affect  all  the  region  to  which  the 
nerve  is  distributed  near  which  the  injection  was  made  (Bartholow).  Other  observers 
have  noted  the  persistent  induration  following  the  puncture,  and  have  also  described  gan- 
grene as  an  effect  of  it,  but  they  have  not  spoken  of  the  numbness  just  referred  to.  The 
local  phenomena  of  swelling  and  inflammation  appear  to  have  been  due  to  an  imperfect 
manipulation  of  the  syringe  ; indeed,  one  reporter  (Fereol)  declares  that  the  operation 
causes  no  more  pain  than  if  water  instead  of  chloroform  were  injected.  The  soporific 
action  of  chloroform  used  in  this  manner  comes  on  slowly,  but  is  curiously  prolonged. 
At  least  4 Gm.  (f^j),  and  sometimes  more,  of  chloroform  are  necessary  to  cause  sleep  even 
at  the  end  of  several  hours  ; it  is  not  accompanied  by  anaesthesia,  the  least  disturbance 
sufficing  to  arouse  the  patient,  but  it  may  last  for  six  or  seven  hours.  The  temperature 
is  reduced  by  1°  or  2°  C.,  and  the  pulse  by  perhaps  ten  beats.  The  tardy  and  feeble  sleep 
can  only  be  explained  by  the  very  gradual  absorption  of  the  chloroform  into  the  blood. 
Chloroform  when  taken  into  the  stomach  in  a moderate  dose  produces  effects  very  much 
like  those  of  alcohol,  such  as  a general  sense  of  stimulation,  fulness  of  the  head,  of 
giddiness  and  confusion  of  thought,  followed  by  sleep.  Gm.  4 (a  fluidrachm)  may  be 
given  as  an  average  dose,  provided  it  be  administered  as  an  emulsion.  Otherwise  it  may 
irritate,  and  even  seriously  inflame,  the  stomach.  Many  cases  of  poisoning  by  chloroform 
taken  into  the  stomach  are  recorded  ( Amer . Jour,  of  Med.  Sci .,  July,  1881,  p.  277  ; 
Eliot,  Med.  Record,  xxviii.  29  ; Niemann,  Centralbl.  f.  Therap.,  v.  405;  Dunlap,  Ed  in. 
Med.  Jour.,  xxiii.  523).  In  a case  of  recovery  a weakly  man  had  swallowed  3 ounces  of 
chloroform  (. Practitioner , xxx.  47).  Doses  of  half  an  ounce  or  more  produce  general  con- 
vulsions, insensibility,  partially  dilated  pupils,  trismus,  foaming  at  the  mouth,  slow  and 
stertorous  respiration,  and  lividity  of  the  face.  The  pulse  is  feeble  and  sometimes 
irregular.  The  stools  may  be  bloody  and  blood  may  be  vomited.  Death  may  result  from 
pulmonary  asphyxia  alone,  or  from  this  together  with  gastritis.  After  death  the  brain  is 
found  greatly  congested,  and  the  mucous  membrane  of  the  air-passages  and  of  the  ali- 
mentary canal  are  in  a similar  condition.  The  bronchia  are  filled  with  mucus  tinged  with 
blood  or  mixed  with  pus.  The  blood  in  the  vessels  is  fluid.  A similar  condition  of  the 
bronchia  has  been  met  with  in  persons  who  died  with  suffocative  symptoms  one  or  two 
days  after  inhaling  chloroform,  especially  in  the  old  and  obese  (Richet).  A case  of 
alleged  homicide  by  chloroform  swallowed  occurred  in  England  in  1886  (Amer.  Jour. 
Med.  Sci.,  July,  1886,  p.  303). 

The  vapor  of  chloroform  when  inhaled  slowly  is  apt  to  produce  excitement,  usually  of 
an  agreeable  sort,  with  extravagant  gayety  and  gesticulation.  In  fuller  anaesthetic  doses 
it  occasions  a sense  of  warmth  and  stimulation,  radiating  from  the  chest  to  the  extremities, 
followed  by  whirring  noises  in  the  ears  and  a sense  of  numbness  throughout  the  body, 
soon  followed  by  a complete  loss  of  consciousness.  Sometimes  consciousness  is  more  or 
less  preserved,  while  the  sense  of  touch  and  that  of  pain  are  abolished.  But,  as  a rule, 
sensibility  is  first  suspended,  then  perception,  and  finally  motility.  Sensibility  to  pain  is 
lost  before  the  sense  of  temperature  or  tactile  sensibility  is  greatly  impaired.  Dur- 
ing the  full  anaesthetic  sleep  the  respiration  is  at  first  soporose  and  quickened,  but  soon 
becomes  tranquil  and  slow ; the  pupil  presents  all  degrees  of  dilatation ; the  pulse  is  at 
first  fuller  and  more  frequent,  but  subsequently  nearly  normal  ; the  voluntary  muscles 
are  relaxed,  but  sometimes  rigid  or  even  cataleptic  ; and  in  females  hysterical  phenomena 
occasionally  appear. 

The  question  has  been  raised  whether  a person  could  be  chloroformed  during  sleep,  the 
numerous  alleged  instances  of  its  having  been  done  with  criminal  intent  being  naturally  open 
to  doubt,  and  even  to  suspicion.  It  is  certain  that  on  various  occasions  the  experiment  has 
been  tried  with  the  result  of  awaking  the  sleepers  (Girdner,  Med.  Record , xxiv.  454),  but  it 
is  equally  certain  that  when  conducted  with  due  precautions  it  has  been  successful,  espe- 
cially with  children.  In  a girl  eight  years  old  an  abscess  was  opened  under  such  circum- 
stances by  Curtis  in  1873  (Med.  Record ',  xxiii.  595).  Schauffler  ( Kansas  City  Med.  Jour., 
June,  1875,  p.  106)  removed  a pebble  from  the  nostrils  of  a child  that  he  had  chloroformed 
while  sleeping.  The  experiments  of  Cerceuil  in  France,  although  for  the  most  part  negative, 
were  in  several  instances  affirmative  ( Ohio  Med.  Recorder , Jan.  1877,  p.  338),  and  the  editor 
30 


466 


CHL  OR  OFORM  UM. 


of  the  journal  just  referred  to  says:  “ Of  three  attempts  at  chloroforming  during  natural 
sleep  of  which  we  were  personally  cognizant,  two  were  successful.”  Dr.  Quimby  also 
not  only  accomplished  it  upon  a person  forewarned  of  the  intention,  but  also  upon  two 
lads,  on  one  of  whom  he  performed  evulsion  of  the  toe-nail,  and  in  the  other  case  opened 
an  abscess  in  the  mouth  and  extracted  several  teeth.  In  both  of  the  latter  cases  the 
anaesthetic  was  administered  during  the  first  sleep  at  night,  and  neither  patient  awoke 
until  the  usual  hour  the  next  morning  ( Trans . Amer.  Med.  Assoc.,  1880,  xxxi.  519). 
Halderinan  reports  two  successful  cases  as  well  as  several  failures  {Med.  Record , xxiii. 
594),  and  Neilson  a complete  chloroform  narcosis  obtained  during  sleep  in  a boy  of  ten 
years,  during  which  the  operation  of  circumcision  was  performed  (ibid.,  p.  595).  (For  addi- 
tional illustrations  see  Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  June,  1883,  p.  595 ; Med.  Record , 
xxiv.  23,  613;  ibid.,  xxxvi.  262 ; xxxvii.  41,  352:  Journ.  Amer.  Med.  Assoc.,  i.  244. 

The  advantages  of  chloroform  over  other  anaesthetics  consist  in  its  agreeable  odor,  the 
small  quantity  of  it  required,  its  non-inflammability,  and  the  rapidity  and  completeness 
of  its  effects.  Its  one  disadvantage  is  that  it  often  destroys  life.  The  number  of  deaths 
caused  directly  and  exclusively  by  the  inhalation  of  chloroform,  independently  of  any  error 
in  the  mode  of  its  administration  or  in  the  quality  of  the  agent  or  any  unfitness  of  the 
patient,  may  now  be  counted  by  hundreds.  A large  proportion  of  them  took  place  dur- 
ing operations  which  under  other  circumstances  are  considered  trifling.  It  seems  proba- 
ble that  many  of  these  operations,  such  as  that  for  strabismus,  the  extraction  of  teeth, 
the  opening  of  abscesses,  etc.,  were  performed  while  the  patient  was  in  a sitting  posture, 
and  therefore  most  exposed  to  the  danger  of  syncope,  which  it  has  been  shown  is  the 
chief  cause  of  death  in  chloroform  inhalation.  No  other  solution  is  so  plausible  of  the 
otherwise  singular  fact  that  the  danger  of  chloroform  is  in  an  inverse  proportion  to  the 
severity  of  the  operation  performed.  Again,  the  most  complete  safety  of  chloroform 
inhalation  during  natural  labor  lends  itself  to  a similar  explanation.  The  gravid  uterus 
restricts  the  circulation  of  the  blood  in  the  lower  limbs  and  increases  it  in  the  upper  por- 
tion of  the  body,  and  this  condition  is  mechanically  exaggerated  by  the  throes  of  labor, 
as  well  as  by  the  mental  excitement  of  the  parturient  female.  On  the  other  hand,  in 
the  state  of  exhaustion  and  terror  which  accompanies  most  of  the  serious  accidents  of 
labor  and  of  operative  obstetrics  the  conditions  of  safety  are  reversed,  and  chloroform 
becomes  peculiarly  dangerous.  It  is  maintained  by  some  of  those  who  admit  the  dan- 
gers of  chloroform  that  they  do  not  exist  when  this  agent  is  employed  in  operations 
upon  children.  It  is  alleged  that  their  immunity  is  owing  to  the  absence  of  that  dread 
of  the  possible  consequences  of  the  inhalation  which  older  persons  experience,  and  to 
the  much  greater  rapidity  with  which  they  fall  into  the  anaesthetic  condition.  These 
reasons  may  be  valid  in  favor  of  using  a safe  anaesthetic  in  operations  upon  infants  and 
children,  but  they  do  not  appear  to  be  sufficient  to  warrant  the  selection  of  chloroform 
for  this  purpose.  It  is  not  improbable  that  the  generally  favorable  action  of  chloroform 
anaesthesia  in  children  is  due  in  part  to  ignorance  of  their  danger,  and  in  part  to  the 
rapid  elimination  of  the  medicine  by  the  kidneys.  But  confidence  in  this  belief  may  be 
carried  too  far.  As  a leading  medical  journal  has  remarked,  “It  is  likely  to  aid  in 
increasing  the  number  of  victims  who  are  yearly  sacrificed  to  chloroform  ” ( Lancet , Apr. 
14, 1888).  In  some  cases  the  effect,  though  short  of  being  fatal,  was  alarmingly  near  it,  as 
in  the  case  of  a strong  girl  between  three  and  four  years  old,  who  inhaled  a very  mode- 
rate amount  of  chloroform  to  facilitate  the  extraction  from  her  arm  of  a very  large  pin 
(Med.  News , liii.  195).  There  has  been  adduced  in  favor  of  chloroform  the  interesting 
statement  that  in  operations  performed  on  the  field  after  battle  and  in  military  hospitals 
chloroform  has  been  generally  used  without  any  fatal  action  of  the  anaesthetic.  In  this 
case  must  be  considered  the  generally  robust  condition  of  the  patients  and  their  state  of 
mental  excitement,  both  of  them  exceptionally  salutary  influences.  In  the  Surgical  His- 
tory of  the  Civil  War  in  the  United  States  it  is  stated  that  37  cases  of  death  by  chloro- 
form were  reported  (Part  III.  p.  890),  but  it  cannot  be  assumed  that  this  number  rep- 
resents the  totality  that  occurred.  It  may  be  stated  that  the  preference  given  to  chloro- 
form or  other  anaesthetics  by  European  surgeons  has  been  sensibly  modified  since  the 
death  of  its  introducer,  Sir  James  Y.  Simpson,  and  that  professional  opinion  tends  to  the 
point  occupied  by  Schiff,  who  “ considered  that  chloroform  should  be  banished  from 
practice  as  an  anaesthetic  agent,  except  in  cases  in  which  extraordinary  resistance  to  the 
action  of  ether  shows  itself,  in  which  instances  it  might  be  allowed  to  mix  a little  chlo- 
roform with  it  in  order  to  produce  the  commencement  of  anaesthesia,  which  should  after- 
ward be  continued  with  pure  ether.”  Long  ago  (1858)  Snow  declared,  “ I believe  that 
ether  is  altogether  incapable  of  causing  the  sudden  death  by  paralysis  of  the  heart  which 


CHLOROFORMTJM. 


467 


has  caused  the  accidents  which  have  happened  during  the  administration  of  chloroform 
and  Perrin,  one  of  the  most  earnest  advocates  of  the  latter  anaeesthetic,  admits  that  its 
dangers  are  “ the  result  of  an  accident  arising  most  frequently  during  an  incomplete  or 
untimely  administration  of  it.”  In  1872,  Dr.  Thomas  Jones,  who  was  for  eleven  years 
administrator  of  anaesthetics  in  St.  George’s  Hospital,  London,  wrote:  “I  have  adminis- 
tered chloroform  in  more  than  six  thousand  cases.”  . . . . “ I confess  experience  has 
taught  me  that  chloroform,  even  when  most  carefully  administered,  is  more  dangerous 
than  is  generally  supposed.  If  I was  unfortunately  compelled  to  take  an  anaesthetic, 
nothing  would  induce  me  to  take  chloroform.”  In  1880,  Mr.  Osborne,  chloroformist  to 
St.  Thomas’s  Hospital,  stated  in  his  report  on  anaesthetics,  “ Ether  is  given  in  all  possi- 
ble cases  because  of  its  undoubted  greater  safety.”  And  in  1881  it  was  declared  that 
“ there  have  been  reported  an  average  of  about  a death  [from  chloroform]  for  every 
month  since  the  time  of  its  introduction  ” (Reichert).  At  a meeting  of  the  Medical 
Society  of  London  in  1884,  Mr.  Braine,  reviewing  the  subject  of  surgical  anaesthesia, 
concluded  that — 1.  For  short  operations  nitrous  oxide  is  the  best  agent.  2.  For  long 
operations  (with  certain  exceptions)  ether  answers  perfectly.  3.  Nitrite  of  amyl  is  the 
best  cardiac  stimulant.  ( Times  and  Gaz.,  Nov.  1884,  p.  758).  Chloroform  was  not 
even  mentioned  by  the  speaker.  The  Practitioner , in  1889  stated  that  experienced 
London  anaesthetists  were  then  almost  wholly  employing  nitrous-oxide  gas  and  ether,  and 
using  chloroform  for  only  exceptional  cases  (vol.  xlii.  p.  44).  Already,  in  1887,  Dr. 
Hewitt,  administrator  of  anaesthetics  at  Charing  Cross  Hospital,  stated  as  a result  of 
his  experience  that  ether  is  practically  free  from  danger  to  life,  whereas  he  had  on  seve- 
ral occasions  been  obliged  to  rescue  patients  from  a condition  induced  “ simply  and 
solely  by  the  administration  of  chloroform  ” ( Practitioner , xxxix.  94).  In  the  same 
year  a leading  medical  journal  ( Med . News.  1.  468)  remarked  that  “ the  increasing  em- 
ployment of  ether  and  the  corresponding  disuse  of  chloroform  during  several  years  past 
are  the  result  of  a conviction  that  the  former  is  far  safer.”  Among  the  many  in  the 
United  States  who  were  driven  to  substitute  ether  for  chloroform  by  the  alarming  effects 
of  the  latter  may  be  named  Dr.  H.  Knapp  {Med.  Record , xxxi.  473)  and  Dr.  R.  F.  Weir 
{Med.  News,  1.  442).  Citations  like  these  might  be  multiplied  to  show  that  in  England 
and  Ireland  and  on  the  continent  of  Europe  the  use  of  chloroform  as  an  anaesthetic  in 
surgery  is  much  less  general  than  it  was  formerly.  The  deaths  directly  due  to  its  use — 
occurring,  with  one  exception,  in  London  alone,  and  published  in  the  Medical  Times  and 
Gazette  during  the  four  years  from  1875  to  1878 — amounted  to  15,  and  in  every  case 
but  one  the  mode  of  death  was  by  syncope.  Between  1885  and  1887  nine  persons  died 
in  Australia  while  under  the  influence  of  chloroform  {Jour.  Amer.  Med.  Assoc.,  xi.  576). 
Mr.  Wilson,  anaesthetist  to  the  Manchester  Infirmary,  found  reported  “ 20,  if  not  more, 
cases  of  death  under  chloroform  ” ( Lancet , Sept.  1889,  p.  564) ; and  Mr.  Hewitt  found 
that  in  a total  of  139  chloroform  deaths,  54  took  place  in  connection  with  minor  surgical 
operations  {ibid.,  Mar.  1890,  p.  515).  Charpentier  collected  40  cases  of  death  attributed 
to  obstetrical  anaesthesia  by  chloroform  {Amer.  Jour.  Med.  Sci .,  Aug.  1889,  p.  208. 
Compare  x\llwright,  Lancet,  1889,  i.  93;  1241,  ii.  589).  Such  deplorable  results  ought 
certainly  to  be  considered  seriously  by  surgeons  before  they  add  to  the  ordinary 
and  inevitable  risks  of  an  operation  one  which  no  sagacity  can  foreknow  and  no  skill 
prevent. 

In  the  fourth  edition  of  this  work  (p.  441)  it  was  stated  that  “ the  Committee  on 
Anaesthetics  of  the  British  Association  (1879)  found  that  chloroform  may  cause  death 
in  dogs  by  primarily  paralyzing  either  the  heart  or  the  respiratory  organs,  and  that  its 
action  on  the  former  is  sometimes  unexpected,  and  apparently  capricious,  as  it  is  found 
to  be  in  surgical  operations  performed  with  chloroform.”  In  1889  a report  from  the 
Hyderabad  Medical  School  combated  this  doctrine,  on  the  ground  of  experiments  upon 
animals,  and  maintained  the  innocuousness  of  chloroform  anaesthesia  ; but  it  was  severely 
criticised  ( Lancet , 1889,  i.  pp.  394,  438,  949,  952).  The  causes  of  death  by  chloroform 
have  been  variously  explained  by  different  investigators.  En  1870,  Richardson  stated 
them  to  be  several,  including  “ syncopal  apnoea,  epileptiform  syncope,  paralysis  of  the 
heart,  or  chloroform  combined  with  surgical  shock”  {Amer.  Jour.  Med.  Sci.,  xeix.  507). 
Ungar,  and  later  Strassmann,  attributed  it  to  fatty  degeneration  of  the  heart  and  liver 
{Lancet,  July,  1889,  p.  127) ; and  this  view  was  adopted  by  Ostertag,  who  placed  cardiac 
paralysis  first  among  the  causes.  A similar  view  was  entertained  by  Dastre,  who  classi- 
fied the  deaths  from  chloroform  under  “primary  syncope,  respiratory  or  cardiac,  secondary 
syncope,  and  toxaemic  anaemia”  {Jour.  Amer.  Med.  Assoc.,  xiii.  559).  More  recently 
{Lancet,  Aug.,  1890,  p.  302)  Prof.  McWilliam  assigned  paralysis  of  the  heart  in  diastole 


468 


CITL  OB  OFORMUM. 


as  the  primary  cause  of  death,  and  arrest  of  the  lungs  as  a secondary  cause.  In  1890, 
however,  the  second  Hyderabad  Commission  reached  a diametrically  opposite  conclusion 
from  their  experiments  on  animals,  and  assigned  the  place  of  first  importance  to  the 
lungs ; a member  of  the  commission  declaring  that  u chloroform  has  never,  under  any 
circumstances  whatever,  a direct  action  on  the  heart”  ( Lancet , Dec.  1890,  p.  587). 
These  statements  encountered  a prompt  opposition  and  protest  from  experimenters,  sur- 
geons, and  chloroformists  (compare  Lancet , 1889,  1890,  passim),  one  of  whom  did  not 
scruple  to  call  them  “ preposterous”  (Jan.  1890,  p.  317).  Dr.  Richardson  renewed  his 
former  protest  against  applying  to  man  the  results  of  the  action  of  chloroform  upon 
animals  (. Asclepiad , No.  1,  1890),  and  the  error  was  vigorously  combated  and  exposed 
by  Drs.  Wood  and  Hare  ( Med . News , lvi.  190),  Laborde  ( Archives  gen.,  July,  1890,  p. 
108)  and  Franck  (ibid.,  p.  235),  who  endeavored  to  prove  that  the  arrests  of  the  lungs 
and  of  the  heart  are  independent  of  each  other,  and  that  either  may  take  place  primarily. 
This  conclusion  is  nearly  the  same  that  Dr.  Wood  arrived  at  in  his  paper  presented  to 
the  International  Congress  at  Berlin,  Aug.  6,  1890,  in  which  he  showed  that  chloroform 
“ is  capable  of  causing  death  by  primanl  arresting  the  respiration  or  primarily  stopping 
the  heart ;”  that  ether  usually  acts  much  more  powerfully  upon  the  respiration  than 
upon  the  circulation,  but  that  occasionally  ....  ether  is  capable  of  acting  as  a cardiac 
paralyzant ; . . . . and  that  “ chloroform  kills,  as  near  as  can  be  made  out,  proportion- 
ately four  or  five  times  as  frequently  as  ether”  ( Med . News,  lvii.  121).  These  conclu- 
sions have  received  the  confirmation  of  many  surgeons,  and,  amongst  others,  of  Dr. 
Reeve  (ibid.,  lvii.  381)  and  Dr.  Dunlop,  professor  of  surgery  in  Glasgow,  who  having 
demonstrated  that  chloroform  death  may  occur  either  by  asphyxia  or  by  syncope,  and 
that  experiments  upon  animals  are  of  little  practical  importance  as  guides  to  the  surgical 
administration  of  chloroform,  concludes  that  “ under  all  circumstances  it  cannot  be 
administered  without  some  risk  to  the  patient’s  life”  ( Lancet , Sept.,  1890,  p.  659).  These 
conclusions  might  be  reinforced  by  the  published  opinions  of  many  surgeons  at  home 
and  abroad.  (Compare  Therap.  Monatsh.,  iv.  244,  247,  249.)  The  witnesses  of  the 
dangers  of  the  anaesthetic  use  of  chloroform  might  be  multiplied,  but  it  must  suffice  to 
cite  only  two  or  three  of  the  latest : Dr.  Kirk,  in  his  commentary  on  the  report  of  the 
second  Hyderabad  Commission,  expresses  his  conviction  that  asphyxia  “ has  nothing  to 
do  with  the  fatalities  due  to  chloroform  narcosis  in  the  human  subject”  (Glasgow,  1890). 
Dr.  McWilliams  (British  Med.  Jour.,  Oct.  25,  1890)  concludes  a review  of  the  matter 
by  asserting  that  “ chloroform  is  fatal  by  paralyzing  the  heart ;”  and  Dr.  B.  W.  Richardson 
declares  that  “ no  other  narcotic  approaches  it  for  danger”  (Amer.  Jour.  Med.  Sci .,  ciii. 
696). 

When  chloroform  is  repeatedly  used,  or  employed,  as  it  frequently  is,  to  produce  in- 
toxication, it  occasions  cerebral  disorders  resembling  those  caused  by  alcohol  and  by 
morphine.  According  to  Svetlin,  this  occurs  in  two  forms,  of  which  the  most  usual  may 
continue  indefinitely,  as  hypochondriasis,  melancholy,  irritability,  moral  depravity,  the 
delirium  of  persecution,  or  intellectual  decay.  (Compare  Med.  Record,  xxvii.  297,  452 ; 
Therap.  Gaz.,  ix.  792.)  More  rarely  the  symptoms  are  acute,  lasting  for  about  a week, 
and  characterized  by  violent  delirium,  maniacal  fury,  and  hallucinations  of  sight  or 
hearing.  Similar  effects  have  been  produced  by  chloral  (Archives  gen.,  Juill.  1883,  p.  96). 
The  chloroform  habit  is  as  inveterate  as  the  opium  habit,  and  far  more  pernicious. 

What  has  been  said  above  indicates  the  limits  of  the  uses  of  chloroform  in  surgery 
which,  in  our  judgment,  experience  has  established.  If  the  patient  is  robust  and  not 
exhausted,  if  the  anaesthetic  is  administered  to  him  in  a recumbent  position,  and  if  its 
action  is  restrained  within  the  limits  of  complete  narcotism,  its  dangers  are  diminished, 
but  they  are  not  removed,  and  they  cannot  always  be  foreseen. 

During  pregnancy  chloroform  has  been  given  with  advantage,  both  by  the  stomach  and 
by  inhalation,  to  arrest  obstinate  vomiting,  but  its  tendency  to  relax  the  mouth  of  the 
uterus  should  restrict  its  use  to  cases  in  which  other  remedies  have  failed,  and  also  to  the 
production  of  the  first  stage  of  narcotism  only.  During  labor  chloroform  is  indicated  by 
the  presence  or  the  imminence  of  convulsions,  by  excessive  sensitiveness  of  the  maternal 
soft  parts,  by  irregular  and  efficient  pains,  and  by  the  necessity  of  manual  and  instru- 
mental interference.  In  all  operations  for  the  success  of  which  the  contraction  of  the 
uterus  is  essential  the  full  anaesthetic  action  of  chloroform  is  unsafe.  Chloroform  is  con- 
traindicated during  labor  by  great  relaxation  of  the  uterus,  with  a tendency  to  flooding, 
and  when  there  is  persistent  vomiting  or  acute  or  chronic  disease  of  the  lungs  or  heart, 
and  especially  degenerative  changes  in  the  latter.  It  is  worthy  of  notice  that  in  France 
chloroform-anaesthesia  was  far  from  being  accepted  by  obstetricians,  the  two  professors 


CHLOROFORMZJM. 


469 


of  obstetrics  in  the  Medical  Faculty  of  Paris,  among  others,  having  warmly  opposed  it 
(1878).  As  regards  its  use  for  palliating  the  ordinary  pains  of  labor,  its  action  ought 
not  to  go  beyond  the  production  of  the  first,  or  analgesic,  stage,  not  only  because  it  is 
sufficient,  but  also  because  in  the  stage  of  complete  anaesthesia  the  contractile  power  of 
the  uterus  is  very  apt  to  be  suspended. 

Various  spasmodic  diseases  have  been  favorably  influenced  by  chloroform  inhalation. 
Of  these,  spasmodic  asthma  is  very  speedily  relieved,  but  the  habit  of  using  the  medicine 
soon  lessens  its  influence.  The  same  remark  applies  to  cough , whatever  may  be  its  im- 
mediate cause.  Tetanus , traumatic  as  well  as  idiopathic,  has  been  cured  by  it  in  many 
instances,  and  in  the  tetanoid  spasms  produced  by  the  s^rycAmVie-poisoning  its  influence 
is  salutary  and  has  often  saved  life  ( Philada . Med.  Times , xiv.  504).  It  has  been  used 
beneficially  in  chorea  by  subjecting  the  patient  to  its  moderate  operation  for  an  hour  or 
two  every  day,  but  in  this  disease  its  virtues  do  not  counterbalance  its  dangers. 

In  puerperal  convulsions  the  advantages  of  chloroform  are  very  decided.  Its  inhalation 
should  be  commenced  as  soon  as  the  indications  of  an  impending  paroxysm  appear,  such 
as  restlessness,  rigidity  of  the  muscles,  a staring  expression,  etc.  Infantile  convulsions , 
excited  by  a reflex  irritation  proceeding  from  the  teeth,  the  digestive  apparatus,  etc.,  may 
be  promptly  allayed  by  chloroform  inhalation,  and  its  use  for  this  purpose  does  not 
appear  to  have  been  injurious.  All  pains  due  to  spasms  are  readily  relieved  by  it,  as  in 
colic , including  biliary , nephritic , and  painter's  colic,  dysmenorrhoea , spasms  of  the  bladder , 
rectum , etc. 

It  affords  prompt  relief  in  paroxysms  of  angina  pectoris , but  when  this  affection  is 
associated  with  heart  disease  chloroform  vapor  must  be  very  circumspectly  employed. 

Asa  local  anodyne  the  applications  of  chloroform  are  as  numerous  as  the  seats  and 
varieties  of  pain.  It  is  very  efficient  in  ointments  or  liniments  made  with  lard,  vaseline, 
or  camphorated  oil,  or  used  hypodermically.  It  may  also  be  applied  as  an  atomized 
vapor  or  on  wads  of  cotton  at  the  bottom  of  a cupping-glass  or  wineglass,  etc.  As  a top- 
ical anodyne  and  revulsive,  chloroform  with  aconite  is  particularly  useful  in  neuralgia 
when  applied  over  the  neuralgic  points  upon  compresses  protected  by  an  impermeable  cov- 
ering. In  1873,  Dr.  Barth olow  published  three  cases  of  tic  doloureux , two  of  which  were 
alleviated  by  the  deep  injection  of  chloroform,  and  not  temporarily,  but  for  weeks  or  months. 
In  1874,  Dr.  Mattison  reported  a case  with  a like  issue ; in  1877,  Dr.  Doe  related  a 
case  of  intercostal  neuralgia  accompanying  herpes  zoster  which  was  relieved  by  the  same 
method ; and  Dr.  Stedman  treated  eight  cases  of  different  forms  of  neuralgia  and  pro- 
duced a suspension  or  a marked  mitigation  of  the  paroxysms.  These  cases,  all  of  which 
occurred  in  the  United  States,  appear  to  have  suggested  a trial  of  the  method  in  Europe, 
where  it  seems  to  have  been  first  used  in  Switzerland  by  Cerenville,  and  afterward  by 
Besnier  in  Paris.  The  latter  judged  it  to  be  no  less  efficient  than  hypodermic  morphine 
as  an  anodyne.  It  has  been  suggested  that  the  chloroform  dissolves  the  affected  nerve 
(Batzer)  or  causes  its  necrosis.  Dujardin-Beaumetz  (1879)  concluded  that  chloroform 
is  not  comparable  to  morphine  as  a local  anodyne  in  cancer ; that,  moreover,  nervous 
patients  and  those  addicted  to  alcohol  experience  no  general  impression  from  it ; and, 
finally,  that  in  unskilled  hands  it  is  apt  to  cause  serious  local  mischief.  Cotton  satu- 
rated with  a solution  of  camphor  in  chloroform  is  one  of  the  best  applications  for  the 
pain  of  an  aching  hollow  tooth , and  rheumatic  toothache  is  palliated  by  bathing  the  gum 
with  chloroform.  Among  the  many  affections  for  which  chloroform  is  topically  useful 
are  headache , rheumatism , dysmenorrhoea , painful  parturition , swelled  testicle , the  use  of 
the  moxa  and  the  cautery , painful  haemorrhoids,  etc.  In  the  case  of  a woman  affected 
with  an  accumulation  of  the  larvae  of  the  house-fly  in  her  nostrils,  insufflations  of  calo- 
mel and  of  salt  water  proving  ineffectual,  the  vapor  of  chloroform  caused  the  maggots 
to  be  discharged  {Med.  Record , xvi.  326).  Chloroform  has  been  introduced  upon  a 
sponge  into  the  uterus  to  arrest  haemorrhage  after  delivery,  but  the  well-known  power 
of  lemon-juice,  etc.,  and  even  of  mechanical  irritation,  to  produce  a like  effect  deprives 
chloroform  of  any  claim  to  special  power  in  the  case.  It  should,  however,  be  stated  that 
chloroform-water  (1  per  cent.)  is  alleged  by  Spaak  to  arrest  surgical  haemorrhage  without 
coagulating  the  blood.  Like  ether,  chloroform  has  been  used  successfully  in  the  treat- 
ment of  taenia.  From  half  a drachm  to  a drachm  of  it  should  be  administered,  followed 
within  an  hour  by  half  an  ounce  or  an  ounce  of  castor  oil.  The  internal  administration 
of  liquid  chloroform  has  been  resorted  to  to  assuage  inflammation  of  the  tonsils, 
pharynx,  etc.,  various  abdominal  pains,  and  especially  of  gastric  ulcer,  gastralgia,  dys- 
pepsia, colic,  the  pain  caused  by  biliary  and  urinary  calculi , etc.  (See  Spiritus  Chloro- 
formii)  It  has  also  been  recommended  in  drachm  doses  as  a potent  remedy  in  conges- 


470 


CHLOROFORMUM. 


tive  periodical  fevers , in  convulsions , infantile  or  puerperal,  by  Dr.  D.  Scott  ( Therap . Gaz ., 
x.  20). 

Chloroform  should  never  be  administered  to  persons  afflicted  with  feeble  or  obstructed 
hearts,  or  brain  or  lung  disease,  or  obstructive  disease  of  the  kidneys.  It  is  com- 
paratively safe  in  parturition  and  in  childhood,  but  hazardous  for  delicate  females, 
especially  when  of  a nervous  temperament,  and  for  old  persons  of  both  sexes.  No 
food  should  be  taken  by  the  patient  for  four  hours  previous  to  the  inhalation  of 
chloroform,  and  then  in  small  quantity  and  of  a digestible  nature.  Immediately  before 
the  chloroform  is  inhaled  a draught  of  wine  or  of  brandy  or  whiskey  and  water 
should  be  given.  It  is  recommended  by  Prof.  Zweifel  that  when  chloroform  inhalation 
is  practised  at  night,  the  air  should  be  allowed  to  circulate  freely  around  the  patient,  for 
a peculiarly  noxious  atmosphere  he  thought  was  created  by  the  mixture  of  chloro- 
form emanations  and  those  of  burning  gas,  etc.  ( Lancet , May,  1889,  p.  903).  A more 
definite  opinion  is  that  the  coughing  and  choking  are  produced  by  a pungent  and  acrid 
gas,  which  is  said  to  be  carbon  oxychloride  (Paterson,  Practitioner , xlii.  420).  The  first 
portion  of  vapor  should  be  largely  diluted  with  air,  or,  in  other  words,  the  full  effect  of 
the  anaesthetic  should  be  reached  gradually  in  this  manner,  and  not  by  intermitting  its 
administration.  A too  rapid  inhalation  of  it  tends  to  produce  symptoms  of  asphyxia. 
It  should  always  be  given  by  some  one  who  in  the  habit  of  using  it  and  who  will  attend 
to  it  alone  (Osborn).  Chloroform  vapor  should  be  administered  by  means  of  a napkin 
folded  into  a funnel-shape,  and  held  over  the  nostrils  and  the  mouth  during  inspiration, 
yet  so  as  to  admit  a sufficient  supply  of  atmospheric  air,  or  by  means  of  an  appropriate 
inhaler;  and  in  every  case  the  patient  should  be  in  a recumbent  position.  To  protect 
the  skin  of  the  face  from  irritation  it  should  first  be  anointed.  The  quantity  of  chloro- 
form used  must  vary  with  numerous  conditions,  but  in  surgery  chiefly  with  the  duration 
and  painfulness  of  the  operation.  An  intermittent  administration  prolongs  unduly  the 
ante-anaesthetic  stage.  The  best  guide  is  the  condition  of  the  pulse  and  the  respiration  ; 
if  the  latter  is  normal  and  unembarrassed,  not  intermittent,  shallow,  gasping,  or  sighing, 
the  administration  may  be  continued,  provided  the  pulse  warrants  it  by  its  strength  and 
regularity.  No  more  chloroform  should  be  administered  than  is  necessary  to  produce 
and  preserve  the  requisite  degree  of  anaesthesia.  W.  R.  Williams  ( British  Med.  Jour., 
1883)  lays  down  as  the  most  important  rules : 1.  In  chloroformization  too  much  air 
cannot  be  admitted ; in  etherization  as  much  as  possible  should  be  excluded.  2.  The 
full  effects  of  chloroform  cannot  be  obtained  in  less  than  fifteen  minutes ; those  of  ether 
are  secured  in  five  minutes.  3.  The  epigastrium  should  be  bared,  so  that  the  respiratory 
movements  may  be  accurately  watched.  4.  The  indications  furnished  by  the  pulse 
appear  too  late  to  be  practically  useful.  An  earlier  warning  is  sometimes  given  by  the 
pupil.  If  it  contracts  under  the  full  influence  of  the  anaesthetic  (as  it  should  do),  no 
more  should  be  given  until  it  begins  to  relax  again.  Its  sudden  and  complete  dilatation 
is  a sign  of  imminent  danger. 

Chloroform  may  be  preferred  before  ether  when  the  latter  fails  to  produce  uncon- 
sciousness and  muscular  relaxation  ; also  in  operations  about  the  nostrils,  mouth,  or 
brain,  and  in  persons  suffering  from  pulmonary,  renal,  or  cerebral  disease.  On  the  other 
hand,  ether  is  preferable  to  chloroform  where  from  any  cause,  material  or  nervous,  there 
exists  great  debility,  and  where  the  heart  is  affected  with  muscular  debility  or  with 
valvular  disease.  In  1864,  Claude  Bernard  found  that  morphine  intensified  and  pro- 
longed the  action  of  chloroform,  so  that  a given  effect  could  be  produced  by  a much 
smaller  dose  of  chloroform  than  when  morphine  had  not  been  previously  administered. 
He  stated  that,  in  1863,  Nussbaum,  in  performing  surgical  operations,  was  able  to  pro- 
long the  chloroform  anaesthesia  by  means  of  morphine  previously  administered  subcu- 
taneously, and  that  Guibert,  in  1869,  had  employed  the  same  expedient  successfully.  He 
illustrated  these  propositions  by  numerous  experiments  and  cases  (Les  Ansesthesiques,  etc., 
1875).  Labbe  also  administered  hypodermically  £ grain  morphine  fifteen  or  twenty 
minutes  before  the  inhalation  of  chloroform  was  commenced,  and  concluded  that  this 
method  dispensed  with  the  use  of  a large  amount  of  chloroform  and  avoided  its  dangers 
(. Annuaire  de  Therap.,  xxxiii.  56).  In  1879,  Bossis  contended  that  complete  analgesia  was 
thus  produced  without  altogether  suspending  consciousness  or  the  sense  of  touch,  sight, 
and  hearing  (Bull,  de  Therap.,  xcviii.  476).  In  1868,  Harley  spoke  of  the  use  of  atropine 
“in  failure  of  the  heart’s  action  from  chloroform”  ( Old  Vegetable  Neurotics,  p.  244). 
Finally,  Dr.  Crombie  reported  the  results  of  his  extensive  use  of  the  method  in  India, 
where,  however,  he  did  not  administer  the  morphine  until  the  inhalation  of  chloroform 
had  commenced.  He  fully  concurred  with  previous  reporters  in  regarding  it  as  safer 


CHONDRUS. 


471 


and  more  convenient  than  the  use  of  chloroform  alone.  (For  details  see  Practitioner , 
xxv.  401.)  In  1880,  Fraser  advised  the  hypodermic  injection  of  to  grain  of 
sulphate  of  atropine  and  D—  to  i grain  of  acetate  or  hydrochlorate  of  morphine  fifteen  or 
twenty  minutes  before  the  administration  of  chloroform  is  commenced  (ibid. , xxvi.  201. 
The  same  method  was  employed  in  1876,  by  Dr.  J.  C.  Reeve,  in  this  country,  and  more 
recently  was  recommended  by  Aubert  ( Centralbl . f They-apie .,  iii.  470).  The  hypo- 
dermic use  of  chloroform  is  certainly  efficient,  but  there  are  two  dangers  associated  with 
it : the  first  is  of  throwing  the  liquid  into  a vein  ; the  second  is  the  production  of  local 
inflammation  and  abscess,  and  even  gangrene.  These  dangers  may  be  lessened,  the 
former  by  puncturing  the  skin  with  the  tube  unattached,  and  waiting  to  see  that  no 
blood  escapes  from  it;  the  other  by  avoiding  to  wound  the  lower  surface  of  the  skin. 
The  dose  thus  administered  has  varied  from  Gm.  1-4  (15  to  60  grains).  The  danger  of 
causing  gangrene  by  hypodermic  injections  within  the  mouth,  and  especially  into  the 
gums,  is  very  great. 

There  is  no  medicinal  antidote  to  chloroform.  It  destroys  life  more  or  less  gradually 
by  asphyxia  or  more  or  less  rapidly  by  syncope.  For  the  former  condition  artificial  res- 
piration is  the  appropriate  remedy,  and  should  not  be  abandoned  until  death  is  certain. 
For  the  latter  the  essential  treatment  consists  in  instantly  placing  the  patient  in  such  a 
position  as  will  cause  the  blood  to  flow  into  the  brain,  but  not  with  the  head  absolutely 
dependent,  and  the  hypodermic  use  of  atropine.  It  has  been  proposed  by  Dr.  G.  E. 
Sanford  (1878)  to  counteract  the  dangers  of  chloroform  by  administering  it  mixed  with 
nitrite  of  amyl,  in  the  proportion  of  1 pound  of  the  former  to  2 drachms  of  the  latter. 
After  having  employed  it  in  a number  of  surgical  operations  and  obstetrical  cases,  he 
arrived  at  the  conclusion  that  “ it  seems  to  be  fully  as  safe  as  sulphuric  ether,  and  far 
more  pleasant  in  its  administration,  possessing  all  the  advantages  of  pure  chloroform,  but 
without  its  dangers.”  Burrall  refers  to  nine  cases,  in  all  of  which  impending  death 
seems  to  have  been  averted  by  nitrite  of  amyl  inhaled  or  injected  hypodermically  (Med. 
Record , xxi.  235).  If  time  and  the  circumstances  permit,  the  sedative  tendency  of  the 
chloroform  may  be  counteracted  by  alternating  its  use  with  that  of  ether.  In  some 
cases  the  symptoms  have  been  removed  by  titillating  the  nostrils  with  a feather  or  by 
the  emanations  of  ammonia  (Schirmer)  ; and  a case  is  reported  of  reaction  from  alarm- 
ing syncope  induced  by  swallowing  a fluidounce  of  chloroform  “after  four  half-drachm 
injections  of  liquor  ammoniae  (B.  P.)”  had  been  introduced  into  the  veins  of  the  arm. 
The  patient,  however,  died  ( Times  and  Gaz .,  May,  1871,  p.  616).  Billroth  and  many 
other  surgeons  endeavor  to  prevent  the  dangers  of  chloroform  by  diluting  it  with  ether 
and  alcohol.  A mixture  of  3 parts  of  chloroform,  1 of  sulphuric  ether,  and  1 of  alcohol 
is  often  employed.  But  a death  under  the  use  of  this  mixture  occurred  to  Billroth  him- 
self in  a case  ef  attempted  reduction  of  a dislocation  of  the  hip-joint  ( Boston  Med.  and 
Surg.  Jour.,  Dec.  1880,  p.  649),  and  others  have  since  then  been  met  with.  A mixture 
of  oxygen  and  chloroform  vapor  has  been  recommended  by  Neudorfer  and  employed  by 
Kreutzmann  ( Therap . Gaz.,  xi.  847). 

Chlorodyne  is  the  name  given  to  a popular  nostrum  which  is  much  used  for  the 
relief  of  flatulent  colic,  and  generally  as  an  anodyne.  According  to  E.  Smith  (1870), 
its  composition  is  as  follows:  R.  Chloroformi  giv ; morphiae  mur.  gr.  xx ; aether,  rect. 
,^ij  ; ol.  menthae  pip.  n^viij  ; acid,  hydrocyan.  dil.  giv ; tinct.  capsici  ^vj  ; mucil.  acaciae 
Jjj ; theriacae  [syr.  fusci]  ad  giv. — M.  Such  a combination  is  often  useful,  but  is  too 
dangerous  to  be  entrusted  to  ignorant  persons.  A girl  of  twenty-three  years  drank  about 
eight  ounces  of  “ chlorodyne,”  and  died  comatose  in  about  eight  hours.  Her  lungs 
and  liver  were  congested,  and  the  left  heart  contained  a soft  white  clot  ( Times  and 
Gaz.,  May,  1881,  p.  575).  Another  case  occurred  in  1889  ( Lancet , March,  1889,  p. 
647). 

Acetone  Chloroform  is  said  not  to  be  poisonous  when  taken  internally,  but  to  lower 
febrile  temperatures  and  to  be  mildly  narcotic  ( Ther . Gaz.,  xi.  471). 

CHONDRUS,  V.  S. — Irish  Moss. 

Carrageen,  P.  A.,  P.  G. ; Fucus  crispus.  — Carragaheen,  Mousse perlee,  Fr.  Cod. ; Irl'dnd- 
isches  Moos,  Perlmoos,  Knorpdtang , G. ; Fuco  carageo,  F.  It. ; Caragaheen,  Sp. 

The  entire  plant,  Chondrus  (Sphaerococcus,  Agardh,  Fucus,  Linne ) crispus,  Lyngbye, 
and  Chondrus  (Sphaerococcus,  Agardh,  Mastocarpus,  Kiitzing ) mamillosus,  Greville,  s. 
Gigartina  mamillosa,  J.  G.  Agardh.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  305. 

Nat.  Ord. — Algae,  Florideae,  Gigartineae. 


472 


CHONDRUS. 


Origin. — These  plants  grow  on  rocks  of  the  American  and  European  shores  of  the 
Atlantic  Ocean,  and  are  collected  in  the  spring  on  the  coasts  of  New  England  and  Ireland  ; 
on  the  coast  of  Massachusetts  about  15,000  barrels  are  stated  to  be  annually  procured. 

Description. — Both  plants  are  attached  to  the  rocks  by  means  of  a small  disk.  The 
frond,  about  15  to  20  or  30  Cm.  (6-8-12  inches)  long,  is  cylindrical  below,  repeatedly 
forked  above,  flattened,  and  gradually  dilated,  acquiring  a width  varying  at  the  forks 
between  3 and  25  Mm.  (-^  and  1 inch),  and  across  the  branches  between  2 and  6 Mm. 
(tV  and  \ inch)  ; the  final  lobes  are  linear  or  more  or  less  broadly  wedge-shaped,  emargi- 


Fig.  60. 


nate  or  two-lobed,  and  ragged  or  crisp  at  the  rounded  margin  from  newly-forming  seg- 
ments. The  capsules  (cystocarps)  of  Ch.  crispus  are  imbedded  near  the  end  of  the  seg- 
ments and  project  slightly  above  the  surface  ; those  of  Ch.  mamillosus  are  scattered  along 
the  channelled  branches  of  the  frond,  are  oval  or  elliptic,  and  raised  upon  a short  stalk. 
In  the  fresh  state  both  plants  are  cartilaginous,  of  a brownish  or  purple,  or  frequently 
yellow  or  green,  color.  After  drying  in  the  sun  they  turn  whitish  or  yellowish,  and 
become  somewhat  translucent  and  of  a horny  appearance.  The  drug  has  a slight  seaweed- 
like odor  and  a mucilaginous  somewhat  saline  taste  and  becomes  soft  and  slippery  in 
water.  Boiled  with  30  parts  of  water,  it  yields  a thick  mucilaginous  liquid  which  is  not 
colored  blue  by  iodine  ; and  with  10  parts  (or  1 part  of  the  well-dried  drug  with  15  parts) 
of  water  the  solution  gelatinizes  on  cooling. 

Constituents. — The  principal  constituent  is  mucilage,  of  which  Herberger  (1834) 
obtained  near  90  per  cent.,  9.5  of  which  were  soluble  in  cold  water.  The  mucilage  is 
insoluble  in  ammoniated  copper,  is  precipitated  by  lead  acetate,  and  yields  mucic  acid  on 
being  treated  with  nitric  acid.  Fliickiger  found  the  mucilage  to  contain  0.88  per  cent,., 
and  the  whole  plant  1.012  per  cent.,  of  nitrogen.  The  same  author  obtained  over  15  per 
cent.,  Herberger  only  8.8  per  cent.,  of  ash,  which  consists  of  chlorides,  sulphates,  and 
phosphates  of  sodium,  potassium,  calcium,  and  magnesium.  G-rosse  detected  also  traces 
of  iodine  and  bromine.  Church  (1877)  determined  in  the  air-dry  drug  6.4  per  cent,  of 
sulphur,  a portion  of  which  is  present  as  sulphates ; also  9.38  albuminoids,  55.54  muci- 
lage, 2.15  cellulose,  14.15  ash,  and  18.78  water.  Starch  is  absent;  but  after  treating 
thin  sections  of  the  drug  for  a day  with  alcoholic  solution  of  potassa,  and  then  washing 
with  water,  the  cell-contents,  but  not  the  cell-walls,  acquire  a dark-blue  color  on  being  left 
in  contact  with  solution  of  iodine  (Fliickiger). 

Admixtures. — Other  algae  are  not  unfrequently  collected  with  the  officinal  species, 
and  are  in  most  cases  readily  distinguished  from  the  latter : those  of  similar  appearance 
are  Gigartina  acicularis,  Lamouroux , with  slender  cylindrical  branches,  and  Gig.  pistillata, 
Lamouroux , with  prominently  stipitate  capsules. 

Allied  Drugs. — Dulse  is  the  name  given  to  Halymenia  (Fucus,  Lining,  Rhodomenia,  Greville , 
Sphaerococcus,  Kutzing)  palmatus  and  edulis,  Agardli , two  florideous  algae  growing  on  the  coasts 
of  the  Atlantic  and  Mediterranean.  Both  are  of  a deep  blood-red,  or  after  drying  dark-purple, 
color,  and  have  flattened  fronds,  that  of  the  first  species  being  palmately  divided  into  oblong, 


CHR  YSAROBJNUM. 


473 


wedge-shaped  lobes.  Stenhouse  (1844)  found  it  to  contain  mannit,  and  Magin-Bonet  proved  the 
presence  of  bromine  and  iodine. 

Helminthochorton,  Corsican  moss  ; Mousse  de  Corse,  Fr.  Codex. — This  consists  partly  of 
Sphaerococcus  (Fucus,  Linn 6,  Ceramium,  Willdenow , Gigartina,  Lamouroux , Alsidium,  Kutzing) 
Helminthochorton,  Agardh , which  grows  in  the  Mediterranean,  but  as  found  in  commerce  is 
always  a mixture,  sometimes  of  twenty  or  thirty  different  species  of  algae.  The  drug  is  cartilagi- 
nous, filiform,  repeatedly  forked,  varies  in  color  between  brown,  yellowish,  and  whitish,  and  has 
the  odor  of  sea-weeds  and  a strongly  saline  and  mucilaginous  taste.  It  contains  mucilage  and 
various  salts,  among  them  bromides  and  iodides,  but  its  anthelmintic  principle,  if  any,  is 
unknown. 

Fucus  amylaceus,  Ceylon  moss,  also  called  Jaffna  and  edible  moss , comes  from  the  Indian 
Ocean,  and  consists  of  Sphaerococcus  (Plocaria,  Montag , Gracilaria,  Greville)  lichenoides,  Agardh. 
It  is  about  10  Cm.  (4  inches)  or  more  long,  about  1.5  Mm.  inch)  thick,  cylindrical,  irregularly 
forked,  filiform  above,  and  has  in  the  fresh  state  a reddish  color,  but  on  drying  becomes  nearly 
white  and  rather  brittle.  It  has  a slight  seaweed  odor  and  a mucilaginous  taste.  H.  G.  Green- 
ish (1882)  found  in  it  moisture  15,  ash  10.2,  albuminoids  7.5,  and  matter  soluble  in  alcohol  0.1 
per  cent.,  and  determined  the  absence  of  mannit  and  the  presence  of  various  carbohydrates  differ- 
ing in  their  behavior  to  water  and  alkalies  and  in  the  sugar  they  yield  with  acids — namely, 
metarabin  1.32,  and  others  soluble  in  soda  3.12;  gelose  and  others  soluble  in  hot  water  36.7  ; 
paramylon  6.5,  wood-gum  3.2,  and  cellulose  10.2  per  cent. 

Agar-agar  consists  of  Eucheuma  spinosum,  E.  gelatinae,  Agardh , and  other  florideous  algae  of 
the  Indian  Ocean  ; is  of  a brownish-white  color,  and  has  short  projections  on  the  branches.  The 
so-called  Japanese  or  Chinese  gelatin  or  isinglass  is  prepared  from  these  algae,  and  forms  irregular 
thin  and  soft  pieces,  or  rectangular,  nearly  colorless,  light  and  spongy  cakes  about  4 Cm.  (1£ 
inches)  wide.  It  consists  mainly  of  gelose,  or,  according  to  Scheibler  (1875),  of  pararabin. 

Edible  birds’  nests  are  the  nests  of  Collalia  (Hirundo)  esculenta  and  several  other  swallows 
of  the  Indian  Archipelago,  and  consist  of  different  species  of  Gelidium  and  allied  seaweeds 
after  they  have  been  altered  in  the  crop  or  gizzard  of  the  bird.  They  contain  a large  amount  of 
gelatinous  matter. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparations. — Gelatin  a de  fuco-crispo,  Fr.  Cod. — Irish- 
moss  jelly,  E. — Boil  60  Gm.  of  Irish  moss  for  half  an  hour  in  250  Gm.  of  water  ; express, 
strain,  add  25  Gm.  of  sugar,  evaporate  to  250  Gm.,  and  add  10  Gm.  of  orange-flower 
water. 

Carrageen  gelatin  dried  in  sheets  has  been  used  as  a substitute  for  other  fomentations 
and  poultices.  A piece  of  convenient  size  is  placed  between  two  pieces  of  cotton  cloth 
or  flannel,  then  dipped  in  hot  water,  pure  or  medicated,  until  it  is  saturated,  and  then 
applied  to  the  skin  and  covered  with  waterproof  cloth. 

Action  and  Uses. — Irish  moss  is  demulcent  and  slightly  nutritious.  Its  nutritious 
elements  exist  in  an  exceedingly  minute  proportion.  It  once  had  an  extensive  repu- 
tation in  the  treatment  of  chronic  bronchial  and  intestinal  fluxes  and  irritations  of  the 
urinary  passages.  The  degree  of  its  efficacy  in  these  affections  was  probably  due  to  its 
protective  qualities,  and  possibly  also  to  the  influence  of  its  iodic  constituent  upon  nutri- 
tion, which  Jias  generally  been  admitted,  but  not  demonstrated.  The  following  preparation 
is  agreeable  and  useful : Irish  moss,  macerated  and  washed,  gr.  xxx ; pure  water,  ^xvj  ; 
boil  down  to  one-half  and  strain  with  expression,  and  add  white  sugar,  §iv  ; gum-arabic, 
3j  ; powdered  orris-root,  gr.  xxx ; heat  to  dryness  with  a gentle  temperature,  stirring 
constantly  so  as  to  obtain  a pulverulent  mass,  to  which  3 ounces  of  arrowroot  should  be 
added  with  trituration.  To  prepare  a jelly  with  this  powder,  rub  a teaspoonful  of  it  with 
a little  cold  water  and  then  pour  a cupful  of  boiling  water  on  it  (Neligan). 

Helminthochorton , as  its  name  indicates,  is  used  as  a vermifuge , and  is  given  in  coarse 
powder,  mixed  with  honey  or  milk,  in  the  dose  of  from  Gm.  1 to  10  (gr.  xv-cl.).  It  is 
also  used,  in  decoction,  for  induration  of  the  lymphatic  glands. 


OHRYSAROBINUM,  U.  S.,  Br.,  B.  G.— Chrysarobin. 

Chrysarobine,  Fr. ; Chrysarobin , G.  ; Crisarobina , It. ; Chrysarobina,  Sp. 

A neutral  principle  in  its  impure,  commercial  form,  extracted  from  Goa  powder,  a 
substance  found  deposited  in  the  wood  of  Andira  Araroba,  Aguiar. 

Hat.  Ord. — Leguminosae,  Papilionacese. 

Origin. — The  Pd  de  Bahia , araroba  or  arariba  tree,  is  closely  allied  to  the  West  In- 
dian cabbage  tree  (see  page  208),  and  is  common  in  the  damp  forests  of  Bahia,  Brazil,  where 
it  is  locally  known  as  angelim  amargoso.  It  attains  a height  of  about  30.5  M.  (100  feet), 
has  long  petioled  paripinnate  leaves  and  paniculate  racemes  of  purple  flowers  with  a one- 
ovuled  ovary.  It  was  first  described  by  Aguiar  (1879),  but  Monteiro  (1878)  had  recog- 
nized it  already  as  being  distinct  from  Andira  anthelmintica,  Bentham , and  from  And. 


474 


CHR  YSAROBINUM. 


vermifuga,  Martius , known  in  Brazil  as  angelim  doce.  According  to  Peckolt  (see  Andira). 
the  former,  and  according  to  F.  M.  de  Mello  Oliveira  (1878)  both  species  named,  are 
known  in  Brazil  as  angelim  amargoso.  Oliveira  gives  urarema  as  the  common  name  of 
And.  spectabilis,  and  Martius  mentions  in  his  Materia  Medica  of  Brazil  that  the  name 
araroba  is  given  to  two  species  of  Centrolobium  (C.  robustum  and  C.  tomentosum). 

Araroba  is  contained  in  the  large  porous  vessels  and  in  clefts  or  cavities  which  traverse 
the  wood  in  the  direction  of  the  diameter  and  are  prolonged  through  the  entire  trunk ; it 
is  obtained  by  cutting  down  the  tree,  splitting  the  trunk,  and  scraping  the  powder  from 
the  clefts,  and  is  seen  in  commerce  as  a rough  powder  or  in  small  irregular  pieces,  orig- 
inally of  a light-yellow  color,  but  usually  darkened  by  exposure  to  light  and  moisture  to 
a dull-ochrey,  pale-brown,  or  even  umber-brown  or  deep-purple,  color.  It  has  a bitter 
taste.  When  carefully  heated  it  yields  a moss-like  sublimate,  which  is  colored  red  by 
alkalies.  Formerly  it  was  largely  exported  from  Brazil  to  Portugal,  whence  it  appears 
to  have  been  shipped  to  the  Portuguese  colonies  in  Africa  and  Asia,  and  from  the  settle- 
ment Goa  on  the  Malabar  coast  it  became  known  in  East  Indian  pharmacy,  and  subse- 
quently in  European  and  American,  as  Goa-powder;  its  identity  with  araroba  was  first 
pointed  out  by  Dr.  Da  Silva  Lima  (1875)  ; the  wood  to  which  the  powder  is  attached  was 
found  by  E.  M.  Holmes  to  be  very  similar  to  that  of  Csesalpinia  echinata,  Lamarck  ; but 
J.  L.  Macmillan  (1879)  observed  that  this  wood  yields  its  coloring  matter  to  water,  while 
araroba  does  not.  Examined  by  Prof.  Attfield  (1875),  araroba  was  found  to  be  free  from 
starch,  to  leave  only  .43  per  cent,  of  ash,  and  to  yield  to  boiling  water  about  7 per  cent, 
of  gum,  a glucoside  precipitable  by  lead  subacetate,  and  a bitter  principle  precipitated 
by  lead  subacetate ; from  the  residue  hot  benzene  dissolves  over  80  per  cent,  of  chrysa- 
robin,  and  alcohol  afterward  takes  up  2 per  cent,  of  resin,  leaving  5£  per  cent,  of  red 
wood-fibre. 

Properties. — Chrysarobin  is  “a  pale  orange-yellow,  crystalline  powder,  odorless  and 
tasteless,  and  turning  brownish-yellow  on  exposure  to  air ; very  slightly  soluble  in  cold 
water  or  alcohol ; soluble,  without  leaving  more  than  a small  residue,  in  150  parts  of  boil- 
ing alcohol ; also  soluble  in  33  parts  of  boiling  benzene  and  in  solutions  of  the  alkalies. 
When  heated  to  151°  C.  (304°  F.)  it  fuses,  forming  a dark,  opaque  mass;  and,  when 
ignited,  it  is  partly  sublimed,  and  finally  consumed  without  leaving  a residue.” — U.  S. 
The  dust  of  chrysarobin  is  irritating  to  the  eyes  and  nostrils. 

As  obtained  from  araroba  by  hot  benzene  chrysarobin  was  by  Attfield  supposed  to  be 
chiefly  chrysophanic  acid,  until  Liebermann  and  Seidler  (1878)  showed  it  to  be  mainly  a 
hitherto  unknown  compound,  C30H26O7,  for  which  they  retained  the  name  chrysarobin  pro- 
posed by  Attfield.  It  is  a pale-yellow  powder,  consisting  of  small  wart-like  crystals  and 
acquiring  on  exposure  a darker  tint.  By  repeated  crystallization  from  glacial  acetic  acid 
it  is  obtained  pure  in  the  form  of  small  yellow  scales,  which  are  fusible  and  partly  sub- 
limable, nearly  insoluble  in  water  and  ammonia,  sparingly  soluble  in  alcohol,  more  freely 
soluble  in  amylic  alcohol,  ether,  collodion,  chloroform,  and  various  hydrocarbons.  It  is 
inodorous  and,  on  account  of  its  insolubility  in  water,  tasteless.  Chrysarobin  dissolves  in 
concentrated  sulphuric  acid  with  a yellow  color,  is  nearly  insoluble  in  very  diluted  potassa 
solution,  and  yields  with  melted  potassa  a brown  mass.  Chrysophanic  acid,  on  the  other 
hand,  dissolves  in  concentrated  sulphuric  acid  and  in  very  dilute  potassa  solution  with  a 
red  color,  and  on  being  melted  together  with  potassa  yields  a blue  mass.  The  solution 
of  chrysarobin  in  strong  potassa  solution  has  a yellow  color  and  a strong  green  fluores- 
cence, and  on  being  agitated  with  atmospheric  air  rapidly  acquires  a red  color,  through 
the  formation  of  chrysophanic  acid  ; C30H26O7  (chrysarobin)  + 202  yields  2C15H10O4  (chrys- 
ophanic acid)  + 3H20. 

Tests. — If  boiled  with  2000  parts  of  water,  chrysarobin  should  not  be  completely 
dissolved;  the  filtrate  should  be  pale  reddish-brown,  tasteless,  neutral  to  test-paper,  and 
should  not  be  colored  by  ferric  chloride. — U.  S.,  P.  G.  In  concentrated  sulphuric  acid 
it  is  soluble  with  a deep-red  color ; on  pouring  this  solution  into  water  the  substance  is 
again  deposited  unchanged.  On  adding  0.1  Gm.  of  chrysarobin  to  10  Cc.  of  potassium 
hydroxide  test-solution,  in  a test-tube  and  shaking  the  latter,  the  solution,  which  is  at  first 
yellow  or  yellowish-red,  will  gradually  acquire  a deep-red  color. — U.  S.  Chrysarobin 
should  be  almost  wholly  soluble  in  150  parts  of  hot  alcohol.  If  .001  Gm.  (-fa  grain) 
of  chrysarobin  be  sprinkled  upon  a drop  of  fuming  nitric  acid,  the  red  solution  extended 
to  a thin  layer,  and  a little  ammonia  added  by  means  of  a glass  rod,  a violet  color  should 
be  produced. — P.  G.  If  sprinkled  on  concentrated  sulphuric  acid,  chrysarobin  should 
give  a reddish-yellow  solution. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Chrysarobin,  having  been  at  one  time  mistaken  for 


CHRYSAROBINTJM. 


475 


chrysophanic  acid,  is  still  occasionally  prescribed  by  the  latter  name.  It  is  an  ingre- 
dient of  Unguentum  chrysarobini,  U.  >S. 

Acetum  ararobje,  vinegar  of  araroba,  is  prepared  by  Da  Silva  Lima  by  digesting  for 
a week  25  parts  of  araroba  in  100  parts  of  diluted  acetic  acid.  When  used  it  may  be 
mixed  with  glycerin. 

Allied  Compounds.— Anthrarobin,  Desoxyalizarin,  CuII10O3. — This  substance,  obtained 
from  alizarin,  a coal-tar  product,  by  action  of  nascent  hydrogen,  is  prepared  as  follows : Com- 
mercial alizarin  is  dissolved  in  warm  ammonia-water,  zinc  dust  is  added,  and  heat  applied  until 
the  blue  color  is  changed  to  yellow  5 the  solution  is  filtered  into  water  strongly  acidulated  with 
hydrochloric  acid,  and  the  precipitate  formed  is  washed  by  decantation  until  free  from  acid,  and 
then  dried  on  porous  tiles  at  100°  C.  (alizarin  C14H804  -f-  hydrogen  H4  = anthrarobin  CUII10- 
03  + water  II20).  The  commercial  article  occurs  as  a yellowish-white  powder,  practically 
insoluble  in  water  and  dilute  acids,  but  readily  soluble  in  cold  aqueous  solutions  of  the  hydrox- 
ides of  alkalies  and  alkaline  earths  ; it  is  soluble  in  glycerin,  readily  in  5 parts  of  alcohol,  but 
difficultly  soluble  in  chloroform  and  benzene.  Its  alkaline  solutions  greedily  absorb  oxygen 
from  the  air,  and  the  color  changes  to  green,  and  finally  to  blue,  alizarin  being  again  formed. 
0.1  Gm.  of  anthrarobin  should  yield  a clear  yellow  solution  with  1 Cc.  of  soda  solution,  which 
assumes  a violet  color  if  air  be  forced  through  it.  It  should  not  leave  more  than  1 or  2 per  cent, 
of  residue  upon  ignition.  Although  weaker  than  chrysarobin  in  its  action,  it  has  been  used 
as  a substitute  for  the  same  on  account  of  the  absence  of  irritating  properties  and  its  greater 
solubility. 

Hydroxylamine  hydrochloride,  NH2OHHCl. — The  base  hydroxylamine  is  only  known  in 
the  free  state  in  solution  5 the  hydrochloride  is  obtained  from  the  sulphate  by  treatment 
with  barium  chloride.  By  a rather  complicated  process  hydroxylamine  sulphate  is  obtained  by 
the  interaction  of  sodium  nitrite  and  acid  sodium  sulphite  at  a temperature  of  0°  C.  (32°  F.). 
The  hydrochloride  occurs  as  colorless  hygroscopic  crystals,  soluble  in  an  equal  "weight  of  water, 
also  in  glycerin  and  in  15  parts  of  alcohol.  The  solutions  redden  blue  litmus-paper.  It  pos- 
sesses strong  reducing  properties,  precipitating  metallic  gold,  silver,  and  mercury  from  solutions 
of  their  salts ; it  also  reduces  Fehling’s  solution  in  the  cold.  The  salt  must  be  kept  in  well- 
closed  bottles.  On  account  of  its  non-staining  properties  hydroxylamine  hydrochloride  has  been 
suggested  as  a substitute  for  other  reducing  bodies,  chrysarobin,  pyrogallol,  and  anthrarobin, 
in  the  treatment  of  skin  diseases ; but  by  some  authorities  it  is  pronounced  dangerous  if 
absorbed,  being  a powerful  blood-poison  and  generally  destructive  to  vegetable  and  animal  life 
(Helbing). 

Action  and  Uses. — It  is  stated  that  the  irritating  effects  of  chrysarobin  on  the 
skin  and  mucous  membranes  are  such  that  the  workmen  employed  in  cutting  up  and 
pounding  it  are  obliged  to  protect  the  face,  nostrils,  and  throat  against  its  dust.  Gas- 
koin  relates  that  in  treating  ringworm  of  the  scalp  he  first  wetted  the  part  thoroughly 
with  lemon-juice  or  carbolic-acid  water,  and  for  a few  minutes  rubbed  in  the  powder, 
after  which  the  face  was  apt  to  become  swollen  and  covered  with  an  ugly  brown  stain, 
accompanied  by  considerable  inflammation.  This  effect  was  observed  oftenest  in  chil- 
dren. The  usual  experience  with  chrysarobin  is  that  when  applied  to  the  face  or  scalp  it 
is  very  apt  to  occasion  redness  of  the  eyes  and  erythema,  with  swelling  of  the  skin, 
followed  by  desquamation  of  the  cuticle.  The  inflammation  is  sometimes  intense  and 
painful,  producing  a crop  of  boils  and  lasting  for  several  weeks.  Applied  to  the  broken 
skin,  as  in  psoriasis,  it  has  been  known  to  excite  vomiting.  £ 

Internally,  chrysarobin  is  by  some  alleged  to  be  purgative  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.50 
(gr.  vij).  It  is  stated,  however,  to  be  very  slow  in  its  operation,  which  begins  only  at 
the  end  of  twenty-four  hours,  but  may  continue  for  several  days  without  griping.  It  is 
more  apt  to  act  at  first  as  an  emetic  when  given  to  children  of  twelve  years  in  doses  of 
Gm.  0.35  (6  grains)  and  to  adults  in  doses  of  Gm.  1.60  (25  grains),  according  to  Thomp- 
son, who  adds  that  chrysarobin  is  likely  to  purge  and  chrysophanic  acid  to  vomit  ( British 
Med.  Jour.,  May,  1877,  p.  607).  The  urine  of  persons  using  chrysarobin  turns  red  on 
the  addition  of  alkalies.  A case  is  reported  in  which  after  Gm.  0.20  (3  grains)  of  chrys- 
sophanic  acid  a woman  was  seized  with  burning  pain  in  the  stomach,  vomiting,  pain  in 
the  bowels,  diarrhoea,  haematuria,  and  pain  over  the  bladder,  with  tenesmus  (Glasgow 
Med.  Jour.,  Oct.  1881).  It  is  probable  that  the  substance  taken  was  not  chrysophanic 
acid  merely. 

The  use  of  Goa-powder  in  ringworm  of  the  scalp  is  thus  described  by  Dr.  Fayrer : A 
few  grains  of  the  powder  are  mixed  with  common  vinegar  or  lemon-juice  to  about  the 
consistence  of  cream,  and  with  it  the  eruption  is  painted  over,  as  well  as  the  skin  a little 
distance  beyond  its  margin.  It  causes  no  pain  at  first,  but  in  the  course  of  a few  hours 
there  is  a sensation  of  a dull,  heavy  nature,  the  eruption  becoming  white,  while  the 
surrounding  skin  is  stained  of  a dark  color.  The  sense  of  uneasiness  soon  passes  away, 
the  integument  resumes  its  natural  color,  and  all  traces  of  the  disease  disappear  at  the 


476 


CHE  YSAROBINUM. 


same  time.  Unna’s  method  differs  from  this  in  the  application  of  the  following  oint- 
ment : Chrysarobin,  5.0 ; salicylic  acid,  2.0 ; ichthyol,  5.0  ; simple  ointment,  100.0 
( Therap.  Monatsh .,  iv.  302).  In  chronic  cases  the  process  of  cure  is  necessarily  more 
gradual.  Da  Silva  Lima  has  verified  these  statements,  and  also  tested  the  virtues  of  the 
application  in  an  obstinate  case  of  mentagra , in  which  he  twice  a day  applied  to  the 
roots  of  the  affected  hairs,  by  means  of  a camel’s-hair  pencil,  an  ointment  composed  of 
20  grains  of  araroba-powder,  10  drops  of  acetic  acid,  and  an  ounce  of  benzoin  ointment. 

Chrysarobin  has  been  oftener  used  in  the  treatment  of  psoriasis  than  of  any  other  dis- 
ease of  the  skin.  When  Goa-powder  was  employed,  1 part  of  it  was  mixed  with  3 of 
lard,  and  applied  with  friction  twice  a day  for  six  successive  days.  An  ointment  made 
with  from  Gm.  0.60-4  (gr.  x-lx)  of  chrysarobin  to  Gm.  32  (an  ounce)  of  lard  may  be 
applied  to  the  patches  only  with  a mop  night  and  morning,  after  removing  the  scales 
with  warm  water.  It  should  not  be  used  on  the  face  and  head,  on  account  of  the  dis- 
coloration of  the  skin  it  produces,  but  which  may  be  removed  by  alkaline  solutions. 

To  prevent  irritation  of  the  sound  skin,  a paste  made  by  adding  only  a small  quantity 
of  water  to  the  acid  may  be  applied  to  the  patches  alone,  and  when  dry  it  may  be  covered 
by  a film  of  collodion,  which  will  preserve  it  for  several  days  (Fox).  Continued  experi- 
ence in  the  use  of  chrysarobin  has  not  increased  confidence  in  its  virtues.  Besides  the 
objectionable  discoloration  and  inflammation  of  the  skin  produced  by  it,  the  eruption, 
after  being  cured,  is  apt  to  break  out  anew  and  more  extensively  (Jarisch,  Centralbl.  f. 
Therap.,  i.  14).  These  conclusions  are  confirmed  by  Morrow  ( ' Arner . Jour,  of  Med.  Sci., 
Apr.  1883,  p.  565).  Napier  claims  that  cases  of  psoriasis  which  had  resisted  arsenic  and 
external  applications  were  cured  by  chrysophanic  acid  administered  in  pills  containing 
half  a grain  each  of  the  preparation.  At  first,  one  was  given  after  each  meal,  and  the 
dose  gradually  increased  until  signs  of  gastro-intestinal  disturbance  occurred.  In  one 
case  9 grains  a day  were  taken  without  trouble.  In  nearly  all  the  cases  the  improvement 
of  the  skin  disease  was  marked  and  rapid  ( Practitioner , xxiv.  132).  Externally,  the 
medicine  has  proved  its  efficacy  in  the  treatment  of  contagious  or  parasitic  ringworm , and 
is  more  or  less  useful  in  that  of  herpes  tonsurans,  herpes  circinatus , chronic  lichen,  and  the 
ephelides  of  pregnancy.  Dr.  Metcalfe  ( Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  Jan.  1887,  p.  88) 
reports  remarkable  success  in  the  treatment  of  acne  by  an  ointment  containing  3 grains 
of  chrysophanic  acid  to  an  ounce  of  vaseline.  It  seems  to  possess  no  special  virtue  in 
pityriasis,  eczema,  or  tinea  versicolor.  It  has  been  applied  to  haemorrhoids. 

Originally,  Goa-powder  was  made  into  a paste  with  a little  vinegar  or  lemon-juice  and 
smeared  over  the  eruption  daily  for  several  days.  Afterward  an  ointment  was  used  con- 
taining from  Gm.  0.60-4  (gr.  x-lx)  of  the  powder  or  of  chrysophanic  acid  (chrysarobin) 
melted  together  with  an  ounce  of  lard.  The  officinal  chrysarobin  ointment  is  preferable. 
Better  still  is  probably  the  gelatin  mixture  proposed  by  Pick,  containing  from  5 to  15  per 
cent,  of  chrysarobin,  or  a solution  of  20-40  grs.  of  chrysarobin  in  an  ounce  of  gutta- 
percha solution  {Br.  Phi).  Its  action  can  be  confined  to  the  affected  spot  (Jarisch,  loc. 
cit.).  Alexander  has  apparently  improved  upon  these  methods  in  the  trestment  of  tinea 
tonsurans ; after  shearing  and  epilation  he  applied  to  the  areas  a saturated  solution  of 
chrysarobin  in  liquid  gutta-percha,  renewing  it  as  often  as  it  became  loose  or  fissured 
{Jour.  Cutan.  Dis.,  1885,  No.  2). 

According  to  Liborius,  a tincture  made  from  the  fibres  of  a Siamese  plant,  Rhinacan- 
thus  communis,  which  contains  chrysarobin,  may  be  used  to  cure  ringworm. 

Anthrabobin  was  introduced  as  a substitute  for  chrysarobin  and  pyrogallic  acid.  It 
resembles  the  former  in  its  deoxidizing  power,  and  acts  essentially  in  the  same  manner 
as  chrysarobin,  but  less  intensely  and  more  gradually ; but  it  stains  the  skin  more  deeply. 
It  was  also  found  by  Behrend  an  efficient  remedy  for  psoriasis , etc.  His  results  were 
corroborated  by  Bronson  {Therap.  Gaz .,  xiii.  31).  But  Bosenthal,  Kobner,  and  others 
found  that  it  was  not  curative,  and  that  it  was  open  to  the  serious  objection  of  staining 
the  skin  and  the  linen. 

Hydroxylamin. — Experiment  has  shown  that  this  compound  produces  a brown  color 
of  the  blood,  and,  like  nitrite  of  amyl,  a fall  of  the  blood-pressure.  In  medicine  the 
hydrochlorate  is  used  as  a substitute  for  pyrogallic  acid,  chrysarobin,  etc.,  dissolved  in  a 
mixture  of  equal  parts  of  glycerin  and  spirit  of  wine,  in  the  proportion  of  1 to  1000. 
It  has  been  used  in  the  treatment  of  lupus,  ringworm , parasitic  sycosis , psoriasis , etc.  by 
means  of  a brush,  care  being  taken  not  to  apply  it  at  one  time  over  a large  surface. 
Some  observers,  however,  question  its  efficiency,  and  dwell  upon  the  poisonous  effects  it  is 
liable  to  cause. 


CICUTA. 


477 


CIOUTA. — Water-Hemlock. 

Coiobane,  E. ; Oigue  vireuse , Fr. ; Wasserch ierling , G. ; Cicuta,  virulenta , Sp. 

The  herb  of  Cicuta  virosa,  Linne , s.  Cicutaria  aquatica,  Lamarck.  Bentley  and  Trimen, 
Med.  Plants , 110. 

Mat.  Ord. — Umbelliferae,  Orthospermae. 

Origin. — Water-heinlock  is  a native  of  the  northern  section  of  the  northern  hemisphere, 
and  is  found  in  America  from  Canada  northward.  It  grows  in  swamps  and  wet  places, 
has  a short,  thick,  rather  ovate,  hollow  rhizome  beset  with  circles  of  thin  rootlets,  and 
flowers  from  July  to  September. 

Description. — The  stem  is  about  40  inches  (1  M.)  high,  hollow,  often  purplish.  The 
leaves  are  on  sheathing  petioles,  bright-green,  and  smooth,  triangular-oblong  in  outline, 
twice  or  thrice  pinnate,  the  leaflets  opposite,  narrow  lanceolate,  narrowed  at  both  ends, 
sharply  serrate,  and  the  teeth  with  whitish  points.  The  umbels  are  large,  compound,  the 
flowers  small,  white,  and  the  fruit  subglobose,  laterally  flattened,  with  thick  corky  ribs, 
and  six  oil-tubes  in  each  mericarp,  the  two  on  the  face  being  very  thin.  The  herb  has  a 
slight  aromatic  odor  and  a somewhat  aromatic  and  acrid  taste. 

Constituents. — Polex,  Wittstein,  and  Buignet  have  observed  the  presence  of  a vola- 
tile alkaloid ,cicutine,  which,  however,  according  to  Van  Ankum  (1868),  does  not  exist  in 
the  root.  The  fruit  yields  about  11  per  cent,  of  a volatile  oil  which  was  proved  by  Trapp 
(1858)  to  be  identical  with  oil  of  cumin.  Cicutoxin  is  a tenacious,  non-drying,  amorphous, 
resinous  principle  in  bright-yellow  drops,  which  is  contained  in  the  resinous  cortical  zone 
of  the  rhizome.  It  was  isolated  by  Van  Ankum  (1868),  and  further  examined  by  Boehm 
and  Trojanowski  (1876);  it  is  insoluble  in  petroleum  benzin,  but  dissolves  readily  in 
alcohol,  ether,  and  chloroform  ; also  in  hot  water  and  in  alkalies.  The  dried  root  yields 
about  3.5  per  cent,  of  it. 

Allied  Plants. — Cicuta  maculata,  Linnt — Spotted  water  hemlock,  Spotted  parsley — is  a common 
perennial  of  North  America,  and  is  distinguished  by  its  elongated,  fleshy,  tuberous  roots,  the 
purplish  spotted  stem,  and  the  broader  leaflets.  Its  properties  are  similar  to  those  of  the  preced- 
ing species.  J.  E.  Young  (1855)  obtained  from  the  fruit  a volatile  alkaloid  which  he  regarded 
as  being  identical  with  conine. 

Sium  latifolium,  Linnt — Water-parsnip — is  a European  perennial,  probably  indigenous  to  Cal- 
ifornia ; the  nearly-allied  S.  lineare,  Michaux,  which  is  a native  of  North  America,  has  been 
often  mistaken  for  it.  Another  poisonous  species,  S.  angusti folium,  Linnt,  is  indigenous  to 
Europe  and  North  America.  The  subterraneous  portion  of  the  California  plant  was  examined 
by  A.  R.  Porter  (1876),  who  found  in  it  an  aromatic  volatile  oil,  and  attributed  its  poisonous 
properties  to  a resinous  body.  These  results  were  in  the  main  confirmed  by  N.  Rogers  (1876), 
who  in  addition  obtained  a non-poisonous  volatile  alkaloid  resembling  Wittstein’s  pastinacine ; 
but  according  to  Porter,  this  is  probably  ammonia. 

GEnanthe  crocata,  Linn6  (Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 124) — Water-dr opwort  or  dead- 
tongue,  also  known  as  water-hemlock — is  a European  perennial,  with  fleshy  fusiform  roots  contain- 
ing a yellow  juice,  round ish-obovate,  wedge-shaped,  lobed,  or  toothed  leaflets,  and  oval-oblong 
fruits,  which  are  crowned  with  the  long  erect  style,  have  thickened  lateral  ribs  and  six  oil-tubes 
in  each  mericarp.  (Enanthin,  an  acrid  and  emetic  principle,  was  observed  by  Gerding  (1849)  in 
(Enanthe  fistulosa,  Linnt,  and  is  probably  an  impure  alkaloid. 

Am  mi  Visxaga,  Lamarck. — Ilerbe-aux-cure-dents,  Fr.,  is  indigenous  to  Southern  France, 
the  Orient,  and  Northern  Africa.  The  leaves  are  bi-  or  tripinnatifid,  with  linear  segments. 
Corolla  is  composed  of  five  unequal,  obovate,  and  emarginate  petals.  The  fruit  is  compressed 
from  the  side.  The  plant  possesses  an  aromatic  odor.  I.  Mustapha  (1875)  isolated  the  crystal- 
line glucoside,  kelline,  which  is  colorless,  bitter,  and  soluble  in  alcohol  and  chloroform. 

Action  and  Uses. — Administered  to  dogs,  the  root  is  found  to  cause  salivation, 
vomiting,  diarrhoea,  and  tetanoid  convulsions,  followed  by  resolution.  A boy  eight  years 
old,  who  had  eaten  of  the  root,  became  insensible,  with  dilated  pupils,  pallid  face,  saliva- 
tion, cold  limbs,  frequent  and  stertorous  breathing,  irregularity  and  intermission  of  the 
heart,  and  anaesthesia  of  the  skin.  Later  on  he  grew  restless,  was  convulsed,  tetanically 
rigid,  and  cyanotic.  At  the  end  of  twelve  hours  these  symptoms  subsided  ( Berlin . Min. 
Woch.,  34,  1885).  In  various  fatal  cases  it  is  reported  that  the  gastro-intestinal  mucous 
membrane  was  inflamed,  and  even  ulcerated  and  gangrened ; but  it  is  possible  that  these 
appearances,  if  they  existed,  were  due  to  the  mechanical  irritation  of  the  ingested  root. 

This  plant,  in  consequence  partly  of  its  poisonous  qualities,  and  partly  because  its 
efficacy  is  not  established,  is  hardly  ever  used  internally.  It  is  said  to  be  employed  by 
the  Kamschatdales  as  a topical  anodyne  in  rheumatism , and  others  have  applied  it  for  a 
similar  purpose  in  gout,  and  neuralgia. 

Cicuta  maculata. — A case  is  reported  of  poisoning  with  the  root  of  this  plant,  mis- 


478 


CIMICIFUGA. 


taken  for  angelica.  The  symptoms  were  delirium ; cold  skin  ; pulse  46,  thready,  and 
scarcely  perceptible ; vomiting  of  blood  and  mucus ; a haggard  and  pale  countenance : 
and  complete  prostration.  Recovery  took  place  after  the  internal  and  external  use  of 
stimulants  and  the  hypodermic  injection  of  morphine  {Med.  News , xl.  524).  Linnaeus 
ascribed  narcotic  qualities  to  Sium  latifolium , and  it  has  been  used  to  treat  diseases  of 
the  skin.  (Enanthe  crocata  has  been  the  cause  of  a great  many  cases  of  poisoning  in 
Europe,  where  its  root  is  apt  to  be  eaten  by  mistake  for  that  of  parsnip,  celery,  radish, 
carrot,  etc.  Hogs,  cows,  and  horses  have  frequently  been  killed  by  it.  It  excites  a 
burning  pain  in  the  throat  and  stomach,  nausea  and  vomiting,  and  sometimes  purging, 
vertigo,  delirium,  coma,  and  violent  convulsions,  with  trismus  and  bloody  foam  on  the 
lips,  while  consciousness  and  sensibility  are  lost.  Respiration  is  labored,  the  face  cyanosed, 
the  pupils  dilated,  the  pulse  small.  Death  occurs  in  asphyxia,  with  convulsions.  The 
bruised  root  has  been  applied  to  haemorrhoidal  swellings.  In  poisoning  by  any  of  these 
plants  the  stomach  should  be  emptied  at  once  by  a vegetable  emetic,  and  anaesthetics 
and  narcotics  used  to  control  the  spasm.  (Compare  Leme,  1857,  and  Falck,  1880.) 

El  Kellah  is  the  Moorish  name  applied  to  Ammi  visnaga , or  toothpick  plant.  It  is 
alleged  to  contain  a glucoside,  kelline,  which  in  animals  occasions  vomiting,  usually  slow- 
ing of  the  respiration,  and  irregular  action  of  the  heart.  A decoction  of  the  seeds  (8 
per  cent.)  is  recommended  as  a lotion  for  ulcerated  states  of  the  mouth  and  for  painful 
rheumatic  joints.  Internally  it  is  said  to  cure  rheumatism,  and  to  relieve  uric-acid  ail- 
ments by  its  diuretic  action  and  its  obtunding  action  on  the  urinary  passages  {Bull,  de 
Therap.,  cxii.  315). 

CIMICIFUGA,  U.  S.— Cimicifuga. 

Cimicifugse  rhizoma , s.  Actsese  radix , Br. — Black  snakeroot , Black  cohosh , E. ; Racine 
d'actee  d grappes , Fr. ; Schwarze  Schlangenwurzel , Gr. 

The  rhizome  and  rootlets  of  Cimicifuga  racemosa,  Nuttall,  s.  Cim.  Serpentaria,  Pursh , 
s.  Actsea  racemosa,  Linne , s.  Macrotys  actseoides,  Rafinesque.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med. 
Plants , 8. 

Nat.  Ord. — Ranunculaceae,  Actese. 

Origin. — A perennial  herbaceous  plant  growing  in  rich  woodlands  of  the  United 
States  and  Canada.  The  slender  stem  is  1.8  to  2.4  M.  (6  to  8 feet)  high,  is  leafless  below 
and  above,  and  bears  near  the  middle  several  large,  petiolate,  thrice-ternate  leaves,  with 
ovate-oblong,  acute,  and  deeply-toothed  leaflets.  The  white  flowers  are  in  terminal  racemes 
20  to  30  Cm.  (8  to  12  inches)  long,  have  small  clawed  two-horned  petals,  numerous 
stamens  on  slender  filaments,  and  usually  one  pistil,  producing  a dry  capsular  fruit  con- 
taining many  flat  seeds.  It  flowers  in  June  and  July  and  ripens  its  fruit  in  September, 
after  which  time  the  rhizome  should  be  collected. 

Description. — The  rhizome  is  about  5 Cm.  (2  inches)  long,  and  25  Mm.  (1  inch) 
thick,  horizontal,  somewhat  flattened,  with  distinct  nodes  and  numerous  stout  branches, 
the  remains  of  overground  stems,  which  are  upright  or  curved  upward,  and  increase  the 
length  of  the  underground  portion  to  15  Cm.  (6  inches)  or  more.  These  branches  are 
somewhat  annulate  by  the  prominent  nodes,  and  are,  according  to  their  age,  either  hollow 

or  have  a cup-shaped,  flat,  or  even  convex,  termination  like 
the  rhizome,  they  are  hard  and  tough,  and  break  with  a 
slightly  fibrous  nearly  smooth  fracture.  The  rootlets  orig- 
inate mainly  from  the  nodes,  are  15  to  25  Cm.  (6  to  10  inches) 
long,  the  older  ones  6 Mm.  (i  inch)  in  diameter  near  their 
place  of  attachment,  mostly  about  2 Mm.  inch)  thick ; 
when  dry  of  a wiry  appearance,  obtusely  quadrangular,  and 
longitudinally  wrinkled ; brittle,  and  break  with  a short  frac- 
ture. The  color  of  the  fresh  rhizome  and  root  is  dark-brown, 
becoming  purplish-black  or  brown-black  after  drying,  the 
stem-remnants  of  a grayish  tint.  It  has  a slight  but  heavy 
odor  and  a bitterish  and  acrid  taste.  As  met  with  in  commerce,  the  rootlets,  and  often 
also  the  rhizomes,  are  much  broken. 

The  transverse  section  of  the  branches  shows  a large  central  usually  dark-colored  pith, 
which  is  surrounded  by  numerous  almost  linear  wood-bundles,  the  whole  being  covered 
by  a rather  thin,  firm  bark.  The  rhizome  itself  has  irregular-shaped  wood-bundles  and 
a thicker  bark.  The  rootlets  have  a thick  dark-colored  bark  and  a white  woody  meditul- 
lium,  projecting  with  from  five  to  two  rays  into  the  former;  the  largest  number  of  rays  is 
near  the  base,  and  gradually  diminishes  toward  the  tip  of  the  rootlets. 


Fig.  62. 


Cimicifuga  racemosa:  transverse 
section  through  a branch  of 
the  rhizome  and  through  root- 
lets. 


CINCHONA. 


479 


Constituents. — Tilghman  (1834),  J.  S.  Jones  (1843),  and  G.  H.  Davis  (1861) 
analyzed  black  snakeroot,  finding  starch,  some  tannin,  gallic  acid  (?),  resin,  a little  volatile 
oil,  and  other  widely-diffused  principles.  F.  II.  Trimble  (1879)  found  tannin  to  be  absent  ; 
a principle  which  is  colored  green-black  by  ferric  chloride  is  not  a glucoside,  and  the  white 
precipitate  of  the  aqueous  infusion,  after  having  been  washed  with  water,  is  not  colored 
by  ferric  salts  ; the  portion  of  the  resin  which  is  precipitated  by  lead  acetate  yields  a 
crystallizable  acid.  T.  E.  Conard  (1871)  obtained  a crystalline  principle  which  is  insol- 
uble in  benzin,  oil  of  turpentine,  and  carbon  disulphide,  slightly  soluble  in  ether  and 
water,  and  freely  in  chloroform  and  diluted  and  strong  alcohol ; its  alcoholic  solution  has 
an  intensely  acrid  and  sharp  taste.  It  was  obtained  from  the  fresh  root  by  exhausting  it 
with  alcohol,  precipitating  the  tincture  with  lead  subacetate,  removing  excess  of  lead  by 
hydrogen  sulphide,  evaporating  the  alcohol,  washing  the  residue  with  benzin  and  water, 
and  crystallizing  the  undissolved  portion  from  alcohol  after  decolorizing  with  aluminum 
hydroxide.  It  appears  to  be  a neutral  principle.  It  was  isolated  by  L.  F.  Beach  (187G) 
from  the  so-called  cimicifugin  or  macrotyn , which  is  prepared  by  precipitating  a concen- 
trated tincture  of  cimicifuga  with  water. 

Action  and  Uses. — Cimicifuga  appears  to  depress  the  nervous  and  vascular  sys- 
tems, in  that  it  occasions,  in  large  doses,  vertigo,  dimness  of  vision,  nervous  tremors, 
depression  of  the  pulse,  and  more  or  less  nausea,  with  increased  pulmonary  and  cutaneous 
secretion.  It  was  originally  employed  in  the  treatment  of  chronic  pulmonary  diseases, 
and  particularly  of  chronic  bronchitis  with  profuse  purulent  expectoration.  In  chorea 
independent  of  definite  local  disease  there  is  no  doubt  of  its  efficacy  when  administered 
so  as  to  produce  its  specific  effects.  Probably  it  is  most  useful  in  rheumatic  chorea,  since 
it  has  proved  to  be  an  efficient  remedy  for  acute  articular  rheumatism  when  freely  admin- 
istered. It  is  also  excellent  in  muscular  rheumatism,  and  especially  in  lumbago  and 
rheumatic  neuralgia.  That  it  exerts  a powerful  impression  upon  the  uterine  system  is 
rendered  probable  by  the  relief  it  affords  in  dysmenorrhoea  and  to  the  symptoms  of  pelvic 
congestion  which  often  are  present  during  the  decline  of  the  menstrual  function  ( Lancet , 
March,  1889,  p.  476;  Practitioner , xlvii.  265),  and  by  its  curing  many  cases  of  atonic 
amenorrhoea  when  its  administration  is  duly  prolonged.  It  is  also  alleged  to  be  useful 
in  the  treatment  of  seminal  emissions.  Exceptional  virtues  have  been  claimed  for  it  as 
an  antidote  to  nearly  all  the  ills  that  attend  the  later  stages  of  pregnancy , and  to  the 
pains  and  weariness  of  labor  ; but  these  claims  have  not  been  allowed  ( Therap . Gaz.,  ix. 
336). 

The  average  dose  of  cimicifuga  is  represented  by  Gm.  1.30  (gr.  xx)  of  its  powder. 
This  form  is  seldom  used,  a decoction  or  the  fluid  extract  being  preferred.  The  latter  is 
officinal ; the  former  may  be  prepared  by  boiling  for  a short  time  Gm.  32  (an  ounce)  of 
the  bruised  root  in  Gm.  500  (a  pint)  of  water ; one  or  two  fluidounces  may  be  given  at 
a dose.  The  tincture  is  the  least  eligible  of  its  preparations,  but  may  be  given  in  the 
dose  of  30  to  60  minims. 

CINCHONA,  V.  S.,  Br.,  JP.  G.— Cinchona. 

Peruvian  bark,  E. ; Quinquina,  Fr.  ; Ghinarinde , G. ; China,  It.;  Quina,  Sp. 

The  bark  of  several  species  of  Cinchona. 

Nat.  Ord. — Rubiaceae,  Cinchoneae. 

Official  Kinds. — 1.  Cinchona,  U.  S.',  Cinchonae  cortex,  Br.  ) Cortex  Chinae,  P.  G. 
The  bark  of  Cinchona  Calisaya,  Weddell,  Cinchona  officinalis,  Linne , and  of  hybrids  of 
these  and  of  other  species  of  Cinchona  (of  cultivated  Cinchonas  principally  Cinchona 
succirubra,  Pavon,  P.G. ),  containing  not  less  than  5 per  cent,  of  its  peculiar  alkaloids, 
at  least  one-half  of  which  should  be  quinine, — U.  S.,  P.  G.,  from  which  the  characteris- 
tic alkaloids  of  the  bark  may  be  obtained,  Br. 

A.  Cinchona  Calisaya,  Weddell. — Cinchona  flava,  U.  S.,  1880 ; Cinchonae  flavae  cor- 
tex ; Cortex  chinae  calisayae ; Cortex  chinae  regiae ; China  regia. — Yellow  cinchona, 
Calisaya-bark,  E. ; Quinquina  calisaya,  Quinquina  jaune  royal,  Fr.;  Calisayarinde, 
Kbnigschina,  G.  ; China  gialla,  It.  ; Quina  Calisaya,  Bp. 

Weddell,  Hist.  Nat.  des  Quinq.,  Plates  3,  3 bis,  and  28;  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med. 
Plants , 141. 

B.  Cinchona  officinalis,  Linne. — Cinchona  pallida  ; Cinchonae  pallidae  cortex  ; Cortex 
chinae  fuscus  ; China  fusca,  s.  grisea  s.  pallida  s.  cinerea. — Pale  Peruvian  bark,  Loxa  bark, 
Crown  bark,  E. ; Quinquina  gris  de  Loxa,  Fr. ; Braune  (Graue)  Chinarinde,  Loxarinde, 
Kronchina,  G. ; Quina  gris  de  Loja,  Quina  charhuarguera,  Sp. 


480 


CINCHONA. 


Humboldt  and  Bonpland,  Plant.  JPquinoct.  i.  33 ; Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med. 
Plants , 140. 

2.  Cinchona  rubra,  U.  S.,  Br. — The  bark  of  Cinchona  succirubra,  Pavon,  contain- 
ing not  less  than  5 per  cent,  of  its  peculiar  alkaloids,  U.  S. ; containing  between  5 and 
6 per  cent,  of  total  alkaloids,  of  which.not  less  than  half  shall  consist  of  quinine  and  cin- 
chonidine  (the  bark  of  the  stem  and  branches  of  cultivated  plants  being  directed). — Br. 

Cortex  chinas  ruber,  China  rubra. — Bed  cinchona,  Bed  Peruvian  bark,  Bed  bark, 
E.  ; Quinquina  rouge,  Fr.  ; Bothe  Chinarinde,  G.  ; China  rossa,  It. ; Quina  roja,  Sp. 

Pavon,  Nueva  Quinologia  ; Howard’s  Illustrations , plate  9;  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med. 
Plants , 142. 

Origin. — The  genus  Cinchona,  as  at  present  constituted,  consists  of  about  thirty-one 
or  thirty-six  species,  all  of  which  are  indigenous  to  South  America,  from  10°  north  lat- 
itude to  19°,  or  probably  22°,  south  latitude.  It  follows  the  eastern  slope  of  the  central 
chain  of  the  Andes  from  the  southern  limits,  beginning  in  Bolivia,  through  Peru ; and 
from  about  2°  south  latitude  in  Ecuador,  it  occupies  also  the  eastern  slope  of  the  west- 
ern chain  of  the  Cordilleras  until  by  two  narrow  belts  it  enters  the  highlands  of  New 
Granada,  whence  it  spreads  north-east  and  northward  into  Yenezuela,  to  the  neighborhood 
of  Caracas  and  in  proximity  to  the  Caribbean  Sea.  The  climate  in  which  the  most  val- 
uable species  are  found  is,  according  to  Karsten  (1858),  characterized  by  a rainy  season 
lasting  for  9 months,  heavy  rains  falling  principally  during  the  night  and  alternating 
with  sunshine  and  fog  through  the  day ; during  the  remaining  3 months  the  tempera- 
ture frequently  sinks  in  the  night  to  below  the  freezing-point,  but  reaches  in  the  day- 
time 25°  C.  (77°  F.),  producing  dense  fogs.  The  mean  annual  temperature  of  these 
regions  is  12°  to  13°  C.  (about  55°  F.).  The  less  valuable  species  are  found  in  regions  in 
which  the  moisture  is  less  evenly  distributed  throughout  the  year,  and  in  which  the  mean 
temperature  is  higher,  rising,  according  to  Martius  (1863),  to  about  20°  C.  (68°  F.). 

The  cinchonas  are  not  met  with  in  the  valleys ; the  lowest  altitude  observed  by  Kars- 
ten was  at  the  northern  limits  of  the  cinchona  region,  where  the  valueless  Cinch,  barba- 
coensis,  which  is  not  a true  cinchona,  is  at  an  elevation  of  100  M.  (330  feet).  Caldas 
gives  the  highest  limits  at  3270  M.  (10,700  feet),  Karsten  at  3500  M.  (11,500  feet).  The 
really  valuable  species,  however,  according  to  Weddell,  grow  at  an  altitude  of  1600  to 
2400  M.  (5300  to  7900  feet)  ; an  exception  is  C.  succirubra,  which  descends  to  about  700 
M.  (2300  feet).  They  are  confined  within  about  11°  to  the  north  and  south  from  Loxa, 
beyond  which  limits  the  barks  are  of  little  or  no  value.  The  most  southern  species  is 
Cinch,  australis,  Weddell , the  most  northern  ones  Cinch,  tucujensis,  Karsten , and  C.  cor- 
difolia,  Mutis.  All  grow  in  the  primeval  forests  either  singly  or  with  but  few  specimens 
together. 

The  cinchonas  are  evergreen  trees  or  shrubs,  most  of  the  valuable  species  attaining  a 
height  of  from  12  to  24  M.  (40  to  80  feet).  Their  laurel-like  opposite  leaves  have  decid- 
uous stipules,  are  entire  at  the  margin,  and  vary  in  shape  between  lanceolate  and  round- 
ish obovate,  occasionally  with  a heart-shaped  base.  The  petiole  and  the  leaves  are  often 
purplish  or  red  while  young  or  before  falling,  and  most  of  the  valuable  species  (Cinch, 
succirubra  is  an  exception)  are  pitted  (scrobiculate)  on  the  lower  side  in  the  angles 
formed  by  the  prominent  midrib  with  the  lateral  veins.  The  fragrant  flowers  form  term- 
inal panicles,  and  have  a tubular  often  soft-hairy  corolla,  with  the  margin  divided  into 
five  spreading  lobes,  and  of  a white-rosy  or  purplish  color.  The  small  five-toothed  calyx 
crowns  the  ovate  or  oblong  two-celled  capsular  fruit,  which  splits  from  the  base  upward 
to  the  persistent  short  calyx  margin,  and  contains  many  flat  and  winged  seeds.  With 
several  allied  genera  they  constitute  the  tribe  Eucinchonese,  which  is  characterized  hy 
the  valvate  pragfloration,  and  with  the  two  genera  Cascarilla  and  Bemijia  they  form  a 
group  in  which  the  dehiscence  of  the  fruit  is  septicidal  and  the  placentas  are  found  upon 
the  middle  of  the  dissepiments,  the  principal  distinction  of  the  two  genera  being  the 
dehiscence  of  their  capsules  from  the  apex  downward.  Most  of  the  species  are  variable 
in  their  foliage  and  in  other  characters,  and  easily  produce  hybrids  ; hence  the  species 
form  more  or  less  distinct  varieties,  and  are  connected  with  one  another  by  intermediate 
forms.  The  most  important  medicinal  species  are — 

Cinch,  calisaya,  Weddell ',  discovered  by  Weddell  (1847),  a stately  tree,  is  found  in 
Bolivia  and  Peru,  between  17°  and  13°  S.  lat.,  at  an  altitude  of  1500  to  1800  M.  (5000 
to  6000  feet),  and  has  an  ovate  smooth  capsule  about  10  Mm.  ( inch)  long.  At  a 
higher  elevation  it  forms  the  shrubby  variety  Josephiana,  and  in  Bolivia  is  seen  the 
variety  boliviana,  which  has  the  lower  surface  of  the  leaves  purplish.  Several  other 
varieties  are  distinguished,  including  C.  Ledgeriana,  which  by  some  botanists  is  regarded 


CINCHONA. 


481 


as  a hybrid  or  even  as  a species,  and  the  bark  of  which  has  attracted  much  attention  for 
its  richness  in  alkaloids. 

C.  officinalis,  Hooker  films,  the  first  species  discovered  by  La  Condamine  (hence  the 
name  Condaminea),  is  a tree  of  about  15  M.  (50  feet),  and  is  found  in  Ecuador  and  Peru, 
principally  near  Loxa  ; its  oblong  capsules  are  ribbed  and  12  to  20  Mm.  (1  to  -|inch)  long. 

C.  succirubra,  Pavon,  15  to  25  M.  (50  to  82  feet)  high,  has  oblong  smooth  capsules 
25  to  31  Mm.  (1  or  If  inches)  long,  and  is  chiefly  confined  to  the  western  declivity  of 
Chimborazo,  but  is  found  south  to  Northern  Peru. 

The  barks  of  the  above  species  constitute  the  officinal  cinchona-barks.  Several  other 
species  yield  barks  which  are  consumed  in  the  manufacture  of  the  cinchona  alkaloids. 

From  his  observations  made  in  the  cinchona-plantations  of  Java  and  the  Himalayas, 
0.  Kuntze  (1878)  endeavored  to  reduce  the  numerous  recognized  species  of  cinchona  to 
four  typical  forms,  regarding  all  others  as  hybrids  ; and  he  finds  this  view  supported  by  the 
fact  that  hybrids  capable  of  perpetuation  by  seed  are  known  to  exist  in  the  plantations ; 
his  four  species  are  named:  I.  C.  Weddelliana  = C.  Calisaya,  Weddell,  in  part  (and  per- 
haps C.  glandulifera,  Ruiz  et  Pavon ) ; II.  C.  Pavoniana  = C.  micrantha,  Weddell  (and 
perhaps  C.  nitida,  Ruiz  et  Pavon ) ; III.  C.  Howardiana  = C.  succirubra,  Pavon  (and  per- 
haps C.  purpurea,  Ruiz  et  Pavon ) ; and  IY.  C.  Pahudiana  (as  characterized  by  Howard). 

Regarding  Kuntze’s  views  of  the  other  species,  we  indicate  here  the  supposed  deriva- 
tion of  the  best-known  ones  only  : C.  pubescens,  Yald,  is  a hybrid  of  III.  and  IY.  ; C. 
officinalis,  Hooker , of  II.  and  I.  ; C.  pitayensis,  Weddell,  of  II.  and  I.  ; C.  cordifolia, 
Mutis,  of  III.  and  IY.  ; C.  lancifolia,  Mutis,  of  III.  and  I. ; and  C.  scrobiculata,  Hum- 
boldt et  Bonpland,  of  II.,  I.,  and  II. 

Ivarsten  unites  Cascarilla,  Buena,  and  Remijia  with  the  genus  Cinchona  as  a sub-genus, 
Ladenbergia,  and  groups  nearly  all  true  cinchonas  in  the  sub-genus  Quinquina,  the  two 
sub-genera  being  united  by  his  sub-genus  Heterasca,  in  which  the  capsules  are  dehiscent 
both  from  the  base  and  apex,  and  which,  among  others,  contains  Cin.  micrantha. 

Cultivation  and  Commerce. — The  cinchona  barks  found  in  commerce  at  the 
present  time  are  derived  from  cultivated  trees,  the  bark  of  wild  trees  rarely  entering 
commerce,  principally  because  it  was  found  that  by  cultivation  of  the  trees,  and  collec- 
tion of  the  bark  in  certain  ways  the  percentage  of  alkaloids,  especially  quinine,  could  be 
increased.  Formerly  the  barks  were  collected  entirely  from  wild-growing  plants,  and  on 
account  of  the  great  distance  from  populous  districts  at  which  they  grew  it  was  neces- 
sary to  undertake  expeditions  of  several  months  duration.  A number  of  collectors, 
named  cascarilleros,  united  in  gangs  under  the  direction  of  a magistral  or  mayor-domo, 
undertook  the  journey  across  the  mountains  during  the  dry  season.  A shed  or  hut  was 
constructed  in  which  to  dry  the  bark.  The  bark  of  the  trunk  and  of  the  large  roots 
just  beneath  the  surface  was  loosened  by  beating  with  a mallet  and  then  removed.  The 
tree  was  then  felled  and  the  stripping  completed.  The  bark  of  the  branches  was  dried 
in  the  sun  and  rolled  either  in  single  or  double  quills,  while  the  bark  of  the  trunk,  after 
being  partly  dried,  was  placed  in  layers  crossing  each  other  at  right  angles,  and  heavy 
weights  placed  on  top.  After  drying  completely  the  bark  was  superficially  examined, 
and  enclosed  in  rough  canvas  in  bundles  weighing  about  150  pounds.  In  this  shape  it 
was  shipped  to  the  coast,  where  the  bundles  wrere  enclosed  in  fresh  hides,  thus  making, 
after  drying,  a firm  and  compact  package,  the  so-called  seroon.  The  bark  was  also 
shipped  in  bales  and  wooden  boxes.  The  only  South  American  country  of  any  interest 
commercially  in  this  line  at  the  present  time  is  Bolivia,  as  it  is  the  only  country  of 
that  continent  where  cinchona  cultivation  is  carried  on. 

La  Condamine  (1738)  noticed  the  reckless  destruction  of  the  cinchona  in  South 
America,  and  others  have  since  corroborated  his  statements.  As  early  as  1792,  Ruiz 
suggested  the  cultivation  of  cinchonas,  and  since  1837,  Fritze,  Blume,  Miquel,  and 
others  have  advocated  their  transplantation  to  Java,  while  Royle  (1839)  pointed  out 
several  districts  in  India  as  suitable.  In  1848.  Weddell  obtained  considerable  quantities 
of  seeds,  mostly  C.  Calisaya,  which  germinated  at  the  Jardin  des  Plantes  in  Paris,  the 
seedlings  being  sent  to  Algeria  and  to  Java. 

Weddell’s  Histoire  naturelle  des  Quinquinas  (1849)  directed  the  attention  of  the  Dutch 
government  to  this  subject.  Carl  Hasskarl,  previously  director  of  the  botanical  garden 
at  Buitenzorg,  Java,  was  selected  by  Pahud,  the  colonial  minister  of  Holland,  to  procure 
plants  and  seeds  from  Peru,  and  left  Holland  Dec.  4,  1852.  His  first  collection  of  50 
plants  remained  through  an  oversight  in  Panama,  but  the  seeds  reached  Holland,  and 
yielded  a number  of  seedlings,  which  were  sent  to  Java.  A collection  of  400  plants  of 
C.  Calisaya  was  transported  amid  many  difficulties  to  the  sea-coast,  and  shipped  Aug.  21, 
31 


482 


CINCHONA. 


1854,  from  Callao  'to  Batavia,  where,  notwithstanding  every  care,  only  46  plants  arrived 
Dec.  13  in  a good  or  partly  sick  condition.  They  were  planted  a short  distance  from 
Batavia  at  an  elevation  of  4700  feet.  In  1855,  Junghuhn  arrived  there  from  Holland 
with  139  seedlings,  nearly  half  of  which  perished,  and  when  Hasskarl  resigned  in  1856 
there  were  only  251  living  cinchonas  in  the  plantations.  Junghuhn  (died  1864)  estab- 
lished plantations  in  more  favorable  localities,  but  ripe  seeds  were  not  obtained  until  1858. 
Propagating  from  seeds  and  cuttings,  there  were  toward  the  close  of  1863  nearly  1,160,000 
cinchonas  in  the  plantations,  not  quite  one-half  of  which  number  had  been  planted  in  the 
open  air.  Only  1.1  per  cent,  of  the  plants  belonged  to  the  more  valuable  species.  In 
1865  the  value  of  the  cinchona  plantations  of  Java  was  decidedly  increased  by  a chance 
purchase  of  a lot  of  cinchona-seeds  which  had  been  sent  to  Georges  Ledger  by  his 
brother,  then  travelling  in  Bolivia.  When  the  seeds  arrived  in  London,  Hooker  was  sick 
and  Markham  was  absent,  so,  in  order  to  save  at  least  half  of  the  seeds,  Ledger  offered 
the  same  to  the  Dutch  government.  The  seeds  were  shipped  to  Java,  and  by  the  follow- 
ing year  Gorkum  could  report  that  20,000  plants  had  grown  from  them.  These  are  the 
mother-plants  of  Cinchona  Ledgeriana,  which  plant  is  now  being  cultivated  more  and 
more  in  that  country.  Since  De  Vrij  had  undertaken  frequent  assays  of  the  barks  of  the 
different  species  grown  under  different  conditions,  the  cultivation  of  the  less  valuable 
ones  was  abandoned  by  K.  W.  Van  Gorkum,  who  succeeded  Junghuhn,  and  by  the  close 
of  1876  nearly  2.000,000  cinchonas,  not  counting  C.  Pahudiana,  were  planted  in  the 
open  air  in  the  government  plantations,  and  of  this  number  1,142,715  were  C.  Calisaya 
(including  C.  Hasskarliana).  At  present  the  plantations  are  in  charge  of  Van  Romunde. 

In  the  mean  time,  Boyle,  Falconer,  and  others  having  again  urged  the  introduction  of 
the  cinchonas  into  India,  the  British  government  decided  in  1859  to  organize  an  expedi- 
tion under  the  direction  of  Clements  Robert  Markham,  embracing  all  the  districts  of  the 
most  valuable  species.  Aided  by  John  Weir,  Markham  explored  the  border-land  of 
Peru  and  Bolivia,  April  and  May,  1860,  and  collected  529  plants,  497  of  which  belonged 
to  different  varieties  of  C.  Calisaya,  the  remainder  to  C.  ovata  and  C.  micrantha.  Of 
these,  456  were  shipped  from  Islay  June  24.  Owing  to  the  jealousies  of  the  population 
and  the  obstacles  raised  by  the  Bolivian  government,  he  was  unable  to  return  to  the  dis- 
tricts for  the  purpose  of  collecting  seeds,  which  do  not  ripen  before  August.  (See  Mark- 
ham’s interesting  work,  Peruvian  Bark , London,  1880.) 

Richard  Spruce  undertook  the  collection  of  plants  and  seeds  from  the  red-bark  districts 
(C.  succirubra)  in  Ecuador,  in  the  forests  of  Chimborazo,  where  he  arrived  in  June,  and 
was  joined  near  the  end  of  July  by  Robert  Cross,  who  collected  a large  number  of  cut- 
tings and  young  plants,  and  with  these  and  the  seeds  gathered  by  Spruce  embarked  at 
Guayaquil  Jan.  2,  1861.  Plants  and  seeds  in  the  neighborhood  of  Huanuco  were  col- 
lected by  G.  J.  Pritchett,  who  embarked  from  Lima  in  Sept.,  1860,  mainly  with  specimens 
of  C.  micrantha  and  nitida.  The  government  having  neglected  to  provide  for  their  direct 
transportation  to  India,  the  shipments  were  made  by  way  of  Panama  to  England,  and 
thence  through  the  Red  Sea  to  Bombay.  The  plants,  and  particularly  those  collected  by 
Markham,  suffered  considerably  from  various  delays  and  from  the  hot  weather  encoun- 
tered during  a part  of  the  journey  ; but  those  in  charge  of  Cross  mostly  arrived  in  good 
condition,  as  also  did  the  seeds  collected  by  the  explorers  mentioned,  and  those  obtained 
on  a second  journey  undertaken  by  Cross  in  1861  to  the  neighborhood  of  Loxa. 

The  first  cinchona-plantation  in  India  was  established  in  the  south-west,  in  the  Neil- 
gherry  Mountains,  near  Ootacamund,  at  an  elevation  of  7000  feet.  Under  the  care  of 
William  Graham  Mclvor  (died  1876)  this  was  soon  extended,  so  that  in  this  district 
alone  there  were  in  1866  over  1,500,000  cinchonas,  besides  those  which  had  been  dis- 
tributed to  or  raised  by  private  parties.  While  here  C.  officinalis  appears  to  be  the  most 
valuable,  C.  succirubra  and  Calisaya  succeed  better  in  the  Himalaya  Mountains  in  Sikkim, 
where  the  cultivation  was  commenced  in  1862.  Plantations  were  also  formed  in  Ceylon 
(1861),  in  Punjab  (1864),  and  other  portions  of  India.  The  packages  of  the  Indian 
bark  are  always  made  up  from  the  same  species  cultivated  under  the  same  circumstances, 
so  that  the  unmossed , ?noxsed , and  renewed,  barks  are  never  mixed.  This  distinction  is 
due  to  Mclvor,  who  proved  that  under  an  artificial  covering  of  moss  the  bark  of  certain 
species  becomes  thicker  and  richer  in  alkaloids,  and  also  that  trees  which  have  been 
partly  peeled  will  under  a covering  of  moss  rapidly  renew  the  bark.  The  Ceylonese  bark, 
principally  in  the  form  of  the  shaved  bark,  is  packed  in  bales,  into  which  the  shavings 
have  been  pressed  by  hydraulic  presses. 

Attempts  at  the  cultivation  of  cinchonas  have  been  made  in  many  countries  and  islands, 
and  have  been  partly  abandoned.  Of  some  importance  is  the  experiment  made  in  Jamaica, 


CINCHONA. 


483 


where  the  plants  were  introduced  late  in  1861  ; the  cultivation  on  a large  scale,  however, 
was  not  commenced  until  1868,  and  under  the  care  of  Robert  Thomson  had  in  1876 
extended  over  300  acres,  the  plantations  being  situated  in  the  Blue  Mountains  at  an  ele- 
vation of  from  4000  to  6000  feet,  with  a variation  of  temperature  between  about  50° 
and  70°  F.  The  official  species,  C.  Calisaya,  succirubra,  and  officinalis,  are  mainly  culti- 
vated here,  and  since  1880  cinchona-bark  has  been  sent  into  the  market  from  Jamaica. 
The  same  species  appear  also  to  be  cultivated  to  some  extent  near  Cordova,  Mexico,  where 
seeds  were  distributed  in  1866;  at  least,  Hugo  Fink  exhibited  (1876)  handsome  speci- 
mens of  these  barks  and  sections  of  the  trees.  In  the  last  twelve  or  fifteen  years  cin- 
chona plantations  have  been  started  in  Bolivia,  especially  in  the  department  of  La  Paz. 
In  Western  Africa  plantations  have  been  started  in  1882,  and  2,500,000  trees  were  under 
cultivation  a few  years  ago. 

In  the  beginning  of  1892  the  estimate  of  the  number  of  trees  under  cultivation  in 
different  parts  of  the  world  was  as  follows:  Ceylon,  19,000,000;  India:  Sikkim, 

4.000. 000;  Darjeeling,  1,500,000;  Neilgherry,  6,000,000  ; Travancore,  Mynad,  Mysore, 

7.000. 000;  Straits  Settlements,  North  Borneo,  Australia,  1,000,000;  Java,  30,000,000 ; 
Africa,  2,500,000 ; Jamaica,  500,000 ; Mexico,  40,000 ; Central  America,  2,000,000  ; 
Bolivia,  2,000,000, — altogether  a grand  total  of  75,540,000  trees. 

It  is  not  unlikely  that  the  cultivation  of  several  valuable  species  of  Remijia  men- 
tioned further  on  may  be  extended  to  many  countries  where  the  cinchonas  cannot  be 
profitably  raised. 

For  the  collection  of  cinchona-barks  several  methods  are  in  use.  One,  known  as 
mossing,  originally  recommended  by  Karsten  ( Deutsche  Flora , p.  1201),  and  introduced 
by  Maclvor,  consists  in  removing  rather  narrow  longitudinal  strips  of  the  bark,  and 
then  covering  the  trunk  with  moss,  when  the  bared  portion  will  again  become  covered 
with  bark,  frequently  richer  in  alkaloids  than  the  unmossed  bark.  Another  method  is 
that  of  coppicing ; the  trees  are  cut  down  above  the  root  and  deprived  of  the  bark,  while 
the  remaining  stumps  again  produce  shoots,  from  which  bark  may  be  collected  after  the 
lapse  of  about  eight  years ; a portion  of  the  roots  may  then  also  be  used  for  the  collection 
of  bark  ( uprooting ).  The  method  of  coppicing  is  practised  also  on  the  cinchona  planta- 
tions of  Bolivia.  A third  method  is  that  of  shaving , introduced  by  Moens  in  1880,  and 
consisting  in  the  removal  and  collection  of  the  outer  layers,  leaving  a sufficiently  thick 
layer  of  the  inner  bark  to  preserve  the  vitality  of  the  tree.  Shaved  cinchonas  have 
been  attacked  in  Ceylon  by  a stag-beetle,  a species  of  Lucanus,  and  mossed  trees  in  Ben- 
gal have  suffered  from  the  destruction  of  the  young  bark  by  ants  and  other  insects. 

Commercial  Terms. — The  word  quina  (pronounced  ghcena ) in  the  language  of  the 
Peruvian  Indians  signifies  bark,  and  quina-quina  a medicinal  bark,  the  term  being  orig- 
inally applied  to  other  barks.  It  is  equivalent  to  the  Spanish  ca  scar  ilia,  the  diminutive 
of  cascara,  by  which  name  the  cinchona,  with  many  other  barks,  is  known  in  South 
America  and  Spain.  From  the  former  word  come  the  French  quinquina  and  the 
German  china , by  which  terms  the  cinchona-barks  are  known  in  those  countries.  As  the 
barks  of  different  species  are  collected,  they  are  in  the  first  place  distinguished  as  quilled 
or  flat  according  to  the  manner  in  which  they  were  dried;  and,  secondly,  by  some  striking 
peculiarity,  principally  the  color.  The  color  of  the  external  layer  necessarily  varies  with 
the  age  of  the  bark  and  with  the  presence  or  absence  of  lichens  and  other  cryptogamous 
plants.  The  fresh  inner  surface  is  always  light-colored,  but  becomes  darker  on  drying ; 
it  is  always  distinct  in  color  from  the  natural  surface,  and  in  the  bark  of  branches  is 
invariably  lighter  than  in  the  trunk-bark.  Since  the  cultivated  cinchonas  in  India  and 
other  countries  have  commenced  to  yield  valuable  bark,  this  is  now  almost  exclusively 
found  in  the  market,  and  is,  as  a rule,  distinguished  by  the  botanical  name  of  the  species 
and  the  manner  of  production.  (See  above  under  Cultivation  and  Commerce.) 

General  Physical  Description. — The  shape  of  the  commercial  bark  depends 
upon  its  treatment  during  the  drying  process,  as  described  above.  The  cultivated  bark 
is  generally  seen  in  rather  uniform  quills.  The  corky  layer  of  the  branch-bark,  unless 
this  is  quite  young,  is  usually  more  or  less  cracked.  The  surface  of  the  bark  of  old 
wood  is  influenced  in  appearance  by  the  presence  or  absence  of  the  corky  layer,  which 
in  some  species  is  easily  detached.  The  inner  surface,  if  not  torn,  always  presents  a 
striate  appearance,  which  is  coarser  or  finer  according  to  the  relative  thickness  of  the 
bast-fibres  and  their  arrangement ; the  immature  barks  of  very  young  branches  have  a 
slimy  appearance  upon  the  inner  surface.  The  size,  arrangement,  and  relative  number 
of  the  bast-fibres  impart  to  the  transverse  fracture  its  peculiar  character,  and  the  almost 
complete  absence  of  these  in  younger  barks  causes  them  to  break  with  a smooth  fracture. 


484 


CINCHONA. 


The  density  of  cinchona-barks  varies  considerably,  but,  according  to  Arnaud  (1881),  is  in 
most  cases  less  than  that  of  water  ; Calisaya  bark,  however,  is  slightly  heavier  than  water. 

General  Structural  Characters. — The  most  important  characteristics  of  cin- 
chona-barks are  due  to  their  bast-  or  liber-fibres,  which  are  never  branched,  are  rather 
short,  with  their  ends  obtusely  pointed,  of  a rather  quadrangular  appearance  upon  the 
transverse  section  under  the  microscope,  showing  the  secondary  deposits  of  the  cell-walls, 
by  which  the  central  cavity  has  been  almost  closed.  They  present  some  distinctions  in 
their  arrangement  as  seen  upon  the  transverse  section.  In  some  species  they  are  grouped 
together  to  the  number  of  four  to  six,  rarely  more ; in  others  they  form  single  or  double 
radial  rows,  four  to  ten  in  number ; in  others,  notably  in  Calisaya,  nearly  every  bast-cell 
is  entirely  distinct  from  the  others,  and  is  separately  imbedded  in  the  bast-parenchyma, 


Fig.  63. 


Calisaya  bark  : radial  longitudinal  section  through 
liber,  showing  cinchona  bast-tibres ; magnified  (50 
diameters 


Fig.  64. 


Quilled  Calisaya  bark:  trans- 
verse section  ; magnified  30 
diameters. 


Fig.  65. 


Bark  of  Cinchona  lanci- 


folia,  with  numerous 
thick-walled  cells  in 
the  outer  bark  and 
outer  bast-layer ; mag- 
nified 30  diameters. 


forming  with  the  others  not  very  regular  interrupted  lines.  The  medullary  rays  are  dis- 
tinct, but  usually  narrow ; together  with  the  preceding  they  form  the  liber  (endophloeum 

or  inner  bark).  The  liber  is  covered  by  the 
Fig.  66.  Fig.  67.  primary  layer  (middle  bark,  mesophloeum, 

cellular  envelope,  and  green  layer  of  authors) 
or  outer  bark , which  consists  of  parenchyma  ; 
in  some  of  the  species  (C.  Calisaya,  succi- 
rubra,  scrobiculata,  officinalis)  one  or  two 
irregular  rows  of  latidferom  ducts  (or  ves- 
sels— lacunae  of  Pereira)  are  found  just  out- 


Flat  Calisaya  bark  : section 
through  inner  layer ; mag- 
nified 30  diameters. 


transverse  section  subcircular,  and  occasion- 
ally more  or  less  filled  with  delicate  cells, 
and  they  are  observable  even  in  old  barks, 
unless  the  primary  bark  has  been  destroyed 
by  secondary  cork.  Some  species  have  in 
the  primary  bark  laterally-elongated  cells 
with  thickened  walls,  either  scattered  or  in 
Flat  Calisaya  bark : section  groups  ; some  of  these  stove-cells  contain  a 

through  outer  layer,  show-  brown  mass  of  resinous  aspect ; others  are 
mg  secondary  cork ; mag-  .........  , ,r  , . . i 

nified  3o  diameters.  filled  with  granular  crystals  containing  cal- 


CINCHONA. 


485 


cium  oxalate ; hence  they  have  been  sometimes  distinguished  as  re  in -cells  and  crystal- 
cells.  The  epidermis  is  never  present  in  the  commercial  bark  ; its  place  has  been  taken 
by  a thinner  or  thicker  corky  layer , the  primary  cork  (or  epiphloeum).  In  some  species, 
like  Calisaya,  bands  of  thin -walled  suberous  tissue,  or  secondary  cork , penetrate  into  the 
primary,  and  even  into  the  bast-layer,  of  the  bark,  throwing  off  the  outer  tissues  and 
remaining  as  the  outer  covering  of  the  bark — Motifs  rhytidoma,  the  periderm  of  Wed- 
dell and  others.  The  distinction  between  these  tissues  is  neglected  by  some  authors, 
but  the  formation  of  secondary  cork  evidently  tends  to  obliterate  characteristics  observed 
in  young  barks. 

General  Chemical  Characteristics. — All  cinchona-barks  contain  astringent 
and  alkaloidal  principles,  but  they  are  present  in  very  variable  proportions.  Grahe  (1858) 
showed  that  if  about  10  grains  of  the  bark  are  heated  in  a test-tube  characteristic  red 
vapors  are  evolved,  which  condense  in  an  oily  carmine-red  liquid.  Cinchona-barks  which 
have  been  deprived  of  their  alkaloids  by  treatment  with  dilute  acids  do  not  show  this 
reaction,  but  ligneous  tissue  which  has  been  impregnated  with  a solution  of  cinchona 
alkaloids  yields  the  sublimate ; and  the  reliability  of  the  reaction  is  increased,  according 
to  Hesse,  by  incorporating  an  alcoholic  tincture  of  cinchona  with  powder  of  the  same 
bark.  This  reaction,  in  connection  with  the  presence  of  cinchona  bast-fibres,  noticed 
above,  may  be  regarded  as  conclusive  proof  of  the  genuineness  of  cinchona-barks,  in  the 
absence  of  the  peculiar  bast-fibres,  merely  as  evidence  of  the  presence  of  cinchona  alka- 
loids; for  Fliickiger  (1871)  observed  a white  bark  which  contained  cinchona  bast-fibres 
and  an  alkaloid  ( paytine ),  but  yielded  a brown  tarry  instead  of  a red  oily  sublimate ; and 
the  latter  is  obtained  from  cuprea-bark  (see  below),  which  contains  cinchona  alkaloids, 
but  is  destitute  of  cinchona  bast-fibres. 

Description  Of  the  Official  Barks. — 1.  Under  the  head  of  Cinchona  the 
U.  S.  P.  now  admits  barks  of  any  species  of  Cinchona,  mentioning  two,  C.  Calisaya  and 
C.  officinalis,  the  only  requirement  being  that  they  contain  at  least  5 per  cent,  of  alka- 
loids. As  found  in  commerce  at  the  present  time,  calisaya  bark  consists  largely,  if  not 
wholly,  of  the  quilled  bark.  The  quills  vary  in  length,  being  usually  30  Cm.  (12 
inches)  or  more  long.  The  quills  are  either  single  or  double,  and  from  1 to  5 Cm.  (£  to 
2 inches)  in  diameter,  the  bark  varying  in  thickness  from  2 to  3 and  5 Mm.  (y1^  to  -i  and 
1 inch).  The  outer  surface  of  the  bark,  where  it  is  not  covered  by  variously  colored 
lichens,  consists  of  a gray  or  brownish-gray,  with  C.  officinalis  occasionally  blackish- 
brown  cork.  This  on  Calisaya  bark  is  usually  wrinkled  and  longitudinally  and  trans- 
versely fissured.  The  fissures  are  about  25  Mm.  (1  inch)  apart,  forming  irregular 
meshes  with  raised  edges,  and  often  enclosing  shorter  transverse  and  oblique  cracks. 
The  corky  layer  when  removed  leaves  the  impressions  of  the 
meshes  on  the  cinnamon-colored  primary  bark  as  slightly  elevated 
lines  corresponding  to  the  deeper  fissures.  The  older  and  thicker 
bark  of  C.  officinalis  is  marked  by  at  first  rather  distant,  later  more 
approximate,  transverse  sometimes  annular  fissures,  and  with  longi- 
tudinal wrinkles  or  slight  wart-like,  corky  ridges.  The  inner  sur- 
face of  the  bark  is  cinnamon-brown,  somewhat  darker  than  the 
primary  bark,  and  finely  striate  from  the  bast-fibres.  Occasionally 
quills  of  Calisaya  bark  are  observed  with  the  outer  surface  formed 
of  secondary  cork,  which  is  brown,  rather  smooth,  and  has  fine 
transverse  fissures. 

Calisaya  bark  was  formerly  met  with  in  commerce,  now,  how- 
ever. never  as  the  so-called  flat  bark.  It  came  in  pieces  often  38 
Cm.  (15  inches)  long,  7 to  12  Cm.  (3  to  5 inches)  broad,  and  from 
4 to  10  Mm.  (1  to  § inch)  thick.  The  external  layer  of  secondary 
cork  was  rarely  present,  except  as  small,  irregular  dark-brown 
patches  lining  the  shallow  longitudinal  depressions,  the  so-called 
conchas  of  the  cascarilleros  or  digital  furrows  of  Pareira  and  others. 

Otherwise  the  entire  bark  consisted  only  of  bast-layer,  and  was  of 
a bright  cinnamon-brown  color,  and  had  the  inner  surface  closely 
and  uniformly  marked  with  fine,  often  wavy,  striae. 

The  fracture  of  the  barks,  short  in  the  outer  layer  and  fibrous 
in  the  inner,  is  easily  explained  by  examining  the  structure.  The 
structural  characteristics  (see  Figs.  63,  64,  67)  of  Calisaya  bark 

are  found  in  the  one  or  two  rows  of  large  laticiferous  ducts  which  are  found  in  the 
parenchyma  outside  of  the  bast-layer.  Stone-cells  are  almost  entirely  absent,  and  the 


Fig.  68. 


Calisaya  bark:  showing 
digital  furrow  and  short 
fibrous  fracture. 


486 


CINCHONA. 


Fig.  69. 


Bark  of  Cinch,  scrobicu- 
lata. 


Fig.  70. 


bast-fibres  are,  with  occasional  exceptions,  located  singly  in  the  bast-parenchyma,  and 
show  radially,  still  more  so  tangentially,  an  imperfect  arrangement  in  rows.  Secondary 
cork  is  soon  formed,  penetrating  obliquely  into  the  bast,  thereby 
throwing  off  the  primary  bark  and  laticiferous  ducts,  and  on  re- 
moval leaving  the  conchas.  The  disposition  of  the  bast-fibres,  their 
I jij:™ n'|, fineness  and  brittleness,  permit  them  to  be  easily  detached,  and  to 
I;  penetrate  the  skin  on  handling,  especially  the  flat  bark;  in  like 

IiIIiUjIIp  manner  may  the  fibrous  fracture  of  the  latter  bark  be  explained. 

The  flat  Calisaya  bark  was  occasionally  found  mixed  with  flat 
pieces  of  the  bark  obtained  from  the  variety  Boliviana  (see  Origin'). 
It  is  thinner,  with  the  conchas  more  shallow  and  numerous,  and 
shows  on  longitudinal  and  transverse  fracture  large  whitish  spots 
It  agrees  with  the  bark  of  the  typical  form  in  anatomical  structure, 
but  occasionally  the  secondary  cork  penetrates  the  primary  bark-layer 
only,  leaving  the  laticiferous  ducts  present;  and  it  has  a portion 
of  the  bast-fibres  arranged  in  but  slightly  interrupted  radial  lines ; 
its  transverse  fracture  is  therefore  more  fibrous.  Similar  in  phys- 
ical appearance  to  Calisaya  bark,  but  breaking  with  a long  fibrous 
fracture,  are  the  barks  of  Cinch,  scrobiculata  and  C.  lancifolia ; 
they  have  for  this  reason  been  known  as  fibrous  Calisaya  bark. 
The  tissue  of  both  barks  is  of  a reddish-yellow  tint,  and  contains 
in  the  outer  portion  numerous  large  stone-cells.  The  scrobiculata 
bark  has  the  inner  bast-fibres  in  nearly  uninterrupted  radial  lines, 
and  contains  on  the  margin  of  the  bast-layer  a circle  of  laticiferous 
ducts.  The  lancifolia  bark  has  the  bast-fibres  in  interrupted  single 
or  double  radial  li-nes,  often  forming  groups,  and  accompanied  by 
axially  elongated  but  transversely  narrow  stone-cells,  called  staff-cells ; laticiferous  ducts 
are  absent ; the  cork,  if  present,  is  soft  and  scaly,  gray  or  whitish. 

2.  Cinchona  rubra  is  now  found  in  commerce  mostly  in  the  form  of  quills  or  incurved 
pieces  varying  in  length,  and  from  12  to  25  Mm.  (J  to  1 inch) 
in  diameter,  with  the  bark  2 to  4 or  5 Mm.  (y1^  to  ^ or  ^ inch) 
in  thickness.  The  outer  surface,  even  of  very  young  bark,  is 
more  or  less  rough  from  corky  warts  and  longitudinal  warty 
ridges,  the  latter  being  formed  by  the  confluence  of  the  former, 
thus  producing  long  meshes,  and  from  a few  mostly  short  trans- 
verse fissures.  These  markings  become  more  prominent  in  the 
older  barks.  The  subserous  layer  of  young  barks  is  grayish- 
brown,  and  that  of  the  older  as  dark  as  rust-l?rown  in  color. 
The  inner  surface  and  inner  layers  of  the 
bark  are  cinnamon-brown  in  young  and  more 
or  less  deep  reddish-brown  in  older  barks,  the 
surface  being  distinctly  striate.  The  bark 
breaks  with  a short  fibrous  fracture,  espe- 
cially in  the  inner  layer.  The  bark  possesses 
a slight  odor,  a bitter  and  astringent  taste, 
and  forms  a reddish-brown  powder. 

The  bark  of  old  wood  is  termed  flat,  but 
is  often  in  curved  pieces  5 to  10  Mm.  (2  to 
4 inches)  in  width  and  12  Mm.  (?  inch)  or 
less  in  thickness.  It  shows  the  characteristics 
described,  except  that  the  bark  throughout 
is  of  a deeper  red  color,  the  inner  surface 
more  closely  striate,  and  the  subserous  layer 
thicker,  very  warty  and  firm,  sometimes  lon- 
gitudinally fissured,  more  or  less  scaly,  rather 
soft  and  spongy.  This  flat  bark  is  now  rarely 
seen  in  commerce. 

The  structural  characteristics  are  a row  of 
laticiferous  ducts,  and  in  the  inner  bast-layer 
narrow  medullary  rays  and  bast-fibres  forming  interrupted  radial  lines. 

The  structure  of  the  cultivated  barks  differs  according  to  which  methods  of  cultiva- 
tion and  collection  are  practised.  With  coppicing  the  structure  of  the  bark  is  not  dis- 


Fig.  71. 


Cinch,  succirubra : trans- 

verse section  of  bark ; 
magnified  30  diameters. 


Bark  of  Cinchona 
pubescens. 


CINCHONA. 


487 


turbed,  and  only  slightly  so  by  shaving,  if  this  is  not  carried  deep  enough.  However,  if 
the  bark  is  shaved  close  to  the  cambium,  a bark  is  obtained  which  in  the  outer  layer  con- 
sists principally  of  parenchyme  tissue,  while  the  inner  layer  is  made  up  of  secondary  bast. 
In  the  outer  portion  we  find  laticiferous  ducts  which  are  not  anastomosing,  and  can  be 
distinguished  from  the  parenchyme  cells  by  being  larger.  In  mossed  bark  we  find  the 
arrangement  of  the  tissues  differing  according  to  whether  we  have  the  mossed  bark  or 
the  renewed  bark.  The  mossed  bark — that  is,  the  portion  remaining  on  the  trunk — has 
a layer  of  parenchyme  close  to  the  cambium,  from  which  the  callus  closing  the  open 
space  takes  its  origin.  In  case  the  cambium  is  uninjured  and  is  sufficiently  protected 
against  drying  out,  it  also  takes  part  in  the  formation  of  the  callus.  In  the  renewed 
bark  we  have  a similar  arrangement  of  tissues  as  found  in  the  bark  described  above. 

The  structural  characteristics  of  the  most  important  cinchona-barks,  may  be  briefly 
stated  as  follows : 

1.  Bast-fibres  single,  occasionally  in  groups  of  two,  or  rarely  more: 

C.  Calisaya. — No  stone-  (or  resin-)  cells,  but  laticiferous  ducts  in  young  bark. 
Secondary  cork  in  old  bark  ; bast-fibres  of  medium  thickness ; medullary  rays  narrow. 

2.  Bast-fibres  occasionally  single,  more  frequently  in  groups  of  three  or  more : 

C.  micrantha. — Few  or  no  stone-cells;  no  laticiferous  ducts;  medullary  rays  nar- 
row ; bast-fibres  of  medium  thickness,  in  groups  of  two  and  three,  and  in  older  barks  of 
five  to  eight. 

3.  Bast-fibres  in  interrupted  single,  or  occasionally  double,  radial  lines : 

C.  succirubra. — No  stone-cells ; laticiferous  ducts  in  one  row,  in  old  bark  often  filled 
with  cells;  bast-  and  medullary  rays  narrow  ; bast-fibres  medium,  in  lines  of  two  to  five, 
and  occasionally  eight. 

C.  officinalis. — No  stone-cells  ; laticiferous  ducts  thin,  soon  obliterated  ; medullary 
rays  narrow ; bast-fibres  medium,  in  somewhat  irregular  lines  of  two  to  four. 

C.  lancifolia. — Stone-cells  numerous  ; laticiferous  ducts  none;  medullary  rays  large 
celled  ; bast-rays  rather  narrow,  the  fibres  medium  and  thicker,  in  single  and  double  lines 
of  two  to  four,  intermixed  with  incomplete  fibres  (staff-cells). 

4.  Bast-fibres  in  nearly  uninterrupted  radial  lines  : 

C.  scrobiculata. — Stone-cells  numerous  ; laticiferous  ducts  in  one  or  two  rows ; medul- 
lary rays  large  celled  ; bast-fibres  very  numerous,  in  but  little  interrupted  single,  or  occa- 
sionally double,  lines. 

The  structural  peculiarities  of  cinchona-barks  are,  to  some  extent,  influenced  by  the 
local  conditions  of  growth,  more  particularly  as  regards  exposure  to  or  protection  from 
the  sunlight.  This  influence  becomes  more  marked  in  the  artificially-protected  ( mossed ) 
bark  of  the  Eastern  plantations,  and  still  more  in  the  second  and  third  crops  of  ( renewed ) 
barks,  in  which  the  modifications  of  the  parenchymatous  tissue  are  very  considerable,  while 
the  arrangement  and  characteristics  of  the  bast-fibres  are  likewise  subject  to  'striking 
changes. 

Allied  Barks. — So-called  spurious  cinchona-barks  are  now  rarely  if  ever  met  with  in  commerce. 
They  were  mostly  obtained  from  trees  belonging  to  the  genera  Cascarilla,  Ladenbergia,  Nauclea, 
and  Exostemma ; some  of  these  ard  quite  similar  to  cinchona-barks  in  appearance,  while  others 
have  not  the  slightest  resemblance  to  them.  In  those  barks  most  nearly  allied  to  the  cinchona 
a cinchona  bastdibre  is  occasionally  met  with,  but  nearly  all  the  bast-fibres  have  large  central 
cavities.  Others  (Nauclea)  have  the  thin  fibres  nearly  filled  up,  but  regularly  arranged  in  radial 
and  tangential  rows.  Grahe’s  test — and,  more  reliable  still,  the  microscope — will  at  once  prove 
their  distinctiveness. 

Spurious  cinchona-barks — which,  however,  are  very  valuable  for  the  manufacture  of  quinine — 
are  the  cuprea  or  copper-colored  barks,  a name  given  to  them  by  Fluckiger  (1870)  on  account  of 
their  dull  copper-red  color.  Samples  of  this  bark  were  noticed  in  London  in  1820,  and  occasion- 
ally it  was  observed  as  an  admixture  to  the  soft  bark  of  Cinchona  lancifolia ; at  the  present  time 
it  is  imported  in  large  quantities,  both  from  the  central  and  southern  parts  of  Colombia,  along 
the  eastern  chain  of  the  Andes.  The  bark  from  the  former  region  was  ascertained  by  Triana 
(1882)  to  be  derived  from  Remijia  Purdieana,  Weddell , and  R.  (Cinchona,  Karsten)  pedunculata, 
Triana.  It  is  in  quills  or  curved  pieces  with  a brown-red  inner  surface,  externally  with  fragments 
of  gray  or  brownish  cork,  and  copper-red  in  the  interior ; the  transverse  fracture  is  coarsely 
granular,  the  longitudinal  fracture  rather  splintery  ; the  transverse  fracture  shows  thick-walled 
cork-cells ; sometimes  scattered  laticiferous  ducts,  many  transversely  elongated  stone-cells,  both 
in  the  outer  bark  and  bast-layer,  and  in  the  latter  numerous  wavy  medullary  rays  and  radial 
lines  of  closely-packed,  thin,  elongated,  obtuse  bast-fibres,  with  the  central  cavity  usually  large; 
these  bast-rays  are  less  numerous  in  the  inner  than  in  the  outer  portion  of  the  liber.  The  bark 
is  very  compact,  hard,  and  heavier  than  water ; that  from  Southern  Colombia  is  denser,  more 
compact,  and  shows  a more  horny  fracture.  Cuprea-bark  varies  considerably  in  the  amount  of 
alkaloids,  which  in  bark  from  high  elevations  sometimes  reaches  3 per  cent,  or  2 per  cent,  of 


488 


CINCHONA. 


quinine,  the  balance  being  quinidine  and  cinchonine;  De  Vrij  (1882)  obtained  even  5.9  per  cent, 
of  alkaloids  (Fliickiger).  llesse  first  pointed  out  the  entire  absence  of  cinchonidine ; and  his 
observations  have  been  confirmed  by  Howard  and  others.  Cuprea-bark  from  Southern  Colombia 
contains  cinchonamine ; Planchon  (1882)  found  this  bark  to  be  free  from  laticiferous  ducts  and 
stone-cells,  and  the  inner  layer  of  the  outer  bark  to  be  formed  of  laterally-elongated  parenchyma. 

Fraudulent  red  barks  have  been  offered  which  had  been  made  by  exposing  inferior  cinchona- 
barks  to  ammonia,  whereby  cinchona-red  is  produced.  Such  barks  were  found  by  Thomas  and 
Guignard  (1882)  to.be  deep-red  in  the  parenchyma,  to  have  pale-yellow  bast-fibres,  to  yield  red- 
colored  infusions  and  decoctions,  and  these  to  give  brown-red  precipitates  with  Nessler’s  reagent, 
while  the  infusion  of  normal  cinchonas  gives  a white  precipitate  with  the  same  reagent  • the 
chloroplatinate  precipitate  was  found  to  contain  22  per  cent.  Pt,  while  that  with  the  cinchona 
alkaloids  contains  only  between  16.8  and  17.8  per  cent,  of  this  metal. 

Pinckneya  pubens,  Michaux , s.  Cinchona  caroliniana,  Biret,  is  a small  tree  growing  in  swampy 
localities  from  South  Carolina  to  Florida.  The  bark  is  employed  as  a tonic  and  febrifuge  under 
the  name  of  Georgia  bark.  Dr.  Farr  claims  having  detected  a considerable  amount  of  cinchonine 
in  the  bark  (Porcher,  Resources , p.  442),  which  is  probably  incorrect,  though  the  plant  is  likely 
to  contain  an  alkaloid. 

Crossopteryx  febrifuga,  Bentham , s.  Cross.  Kotschyana,  Fenzl,  is  a tree  of  tropical  Africa 
having  febrifuge  properties,  and,  like  the  preceding,  belonging  to  the  sub-order  Cinchoneae. 
Hesse  (1879)  isolated  from  the  bark  .018  per  cent,  of  an  amorphous  white  alkaloid,  crossopterine , 
which  is  easily  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  and  ammonia,  and  yields  bitter  salts.  The  aqueous 
infusion  of  the  bark  shows  blue  fluorescence,  which  disappears  on  acidulation  with  sulphuric  acid, 
and  even  after  boiling  reappears  on  the  addition  of  an  alkali. 

Unofficial  Cinchona-bark. — A large  number  of  commercial  varieties  have  appeared  in  the 
market,  made  up  frequently  of  the  barks  of  different  species,  and  therefore  difficult  to  charac- 
terize. This  difficulty  is  greater  with  the  small  quills,  but  even  the  old  barks  of  botanical 
varieties  of  the  same  species  often  present  considerable  differences  in  their  physical  and  histo- 
logical characters. 

Constituents. — (1)  Alkaloids.  Cinchona-barks  contain  one  or  more  of  four  alka- 
loids, which,  according  to  their  composition,  form  two  groups — namely,  quinine  and  quini- 
dine = C20H24N2O2,  and  cinchonine  and  cinchonidine  = CiyH22N20  Gomes  of  Lisbon  (1812) 
obtained  a crystalline  body  without  recognizing  its  chemical  relations ; its  basic  proper- 
ties were  discovered  by  Houton-Labillardiere  (1820),  and  Pelletier  and  Caventou  found 
in  its  two  alkaloids,  which  they  named  quinine  and  cinchonine.  Henry  and  Delondre 
(1833)  obtained  from  a red-colored  bark  a distinct  alkaloid,  which  they  named  quinidine , 
and  which  constituted,  most  likely,  the  greater  portion  of  Van  Heijningen’s  betaquinine) 
obtained  (1849)  from  chinoidine,  and  of  the  cinchotine , which  Hlasiwetz  (1850)  found  in 
the  alcoholic  mother-liquor  of  cinchonine.  Quinidine  is  identical  with  the  conchinine  of 
Hesse  (1869),  but  the  latter  considers  Henry  and  Delondre’s  alkaloid  to  have  been  chiefly 
cinchonidine.  F.  L.  Winckler  (1847)  separated  from  Maracaibo  bark  an  alkaloid  which 
he  likewise  called  quinidine,  but  which  Pasteur  (1853)  proved  to  be  distinct  from  the 
former  and  named  cinchonidine.  Pasteur’s  nomenclature  has  been  adopted  not  only  in 
France,  but  also  in  England  and  America ; until  recently  several  German  writers,  how- 
ever, followed  Winckler,  and  to  some  extent  Hesse’s  nomenclature  is  employed  in  Ger- 
many. 

Pasteur  observed  that  by  fusing  the  alkaloids  of  either  group  in  the  presence  of  acids 
they  are  converted  into  the  amorphous  bases  quinicine  and  cinchonicine , which  have  the 
composition  of  the  alkaloids  from  which  they  are  obtained. 

The  bark  of  C.  succirubra,  cultivated  in  Sikkim,  was  found  by  Hesse  (1872  and  1877) 
to  contain  also  two  other  alkaloids,  quinamine , C19H24N202,  and  paricine,  C16H18N20.  The 
latter  is  pale-yellow,  amorphous,  when  fresh  soluble  in  ether,  and  converted  into  a dark- 
green  resinous  mass  by  strong  nitric  acid.  The  same  acid  yields  a dark-green  solution 
with  aricine , C23H36N204,  discovered  in  Arica  bark  by  Pelletier  and  Coriol  (1829).  It 
is  crystallizable,  and  its  oxalate  and  acetate  are  sparingly  soluble.  Winckler  (1842) 
regarded  it  as  identical  with  an  alkaloid,  cusconine , obtained  by  Leverkohn  (1829)  from 
Cusco  bark,  and  with  the  cinchovatine  of  Manzini  (1842),  from  Jaen  bark,  and  the  pro- 
duction of  a green  color  by  nitric  acid  due  to  the  presence  of  impurities.  But  cusconine, 
though  of  the  same  composition  as  aricine  and  in  the  same  bark,  differs  from  all  cinchona 
alkaloids  in  the  gelatinous  form  of  many  of  its  salts,  including  the  sulphate,  which  is  not 
soluble  in  sulphuric  acid.  The  same  bark  contains  also  the  yellow  amorphous  alkaloid 
cusconidine , discovered  by  Hesse  in  1877,  and  amorphous  cuscamidine  and  crystalline  cus- 
camine , discovered  by  the  same  chemist  in  1880;  the  last  two  alkaloids  are  insoluble  in 
nitric  acid,  cuscamine  also  in  oxalic  acid  ; both  are  readily  soluble  in  ether,  chloroform, 
and  hot  alcohol,  and  melt  at  218°  C.  (424.4°  F.).  The  pitoyine  of  Peretti  (1835)  does 
not  exist,  according  to  Kerner  (1872)  and  Hesse  (1873);  it  had  been  obtained  from 


CINCHONA.  ' 


489 


so-called  Pitoya  bark,  or  Cinchona  bicolorata,  the  bark  of  a species  of  Ladenbergia,  cha- 
racterized by  the  gray  and  fawn-colored  patches  of  its  external  surface. 

Quinamine  (chinamine),  together  with  its  isomer  conquinamine , is  found  in  the  bark  of 
Cinch,  succirubra,  rosulenta,  and  other  species ; both  are  crystalline,  dextrogj^re ; their 
solutions  are  not  fluorescent,  do  not  produce  thalleioqu  ne,  are  precipitated  by  platinum 
chloride  only  when  in  concentrated  solutions,  and  yield  with  gold  chloride  yellow  pre- 
cipitates changing  to  purple.  Their  hydriodates  are  slightly  soluble  in  cold  water  and 
crystallizable.  Quinamine  melts  at  172°  C.  (341.8°  F.),  conquinamine  at  123°  C.  (253.4° 
F.).  The  former  is  dextrogyre,  is  soluble  in  32  parts  of  ether,  and  on  boiling  with 
dilute  sulphuric  acid  is  converted  into  amorphous  quinamidine,  isomeric  with  the  former 
and  having  a similar  behavior  to  gold  chloride ; its  hydrochlorate  crystallizes  in  prisms 
and  is  sparingly  soluble  in  water.  On  heating  quinamine  sulphate  to  100°  C.  (212°  F.) 
it  is  converted  into  the  isomeric  quin  arnicine,  which  is  white,  amorphous,  fusible  in  boil- 
ing water,  and  precipitated  from  acid  solutions  by  sodium  bicarbonate.  When  quinamine 
sulphate,  however,  is  heated  to  120°  C.  (248°  F.),  proto-quinamicine , CnH20N2O,  is 
formed,  which  is  insoluble  in  ether,  and  the  sulphate  of  which  is  nearly  insoluble  in  cold 
water.  By  treating  quinamine  or  conquinamine  with  concentrated  hydrochloric  acid, 
FLO  is  eliminated,  and  apoquinamine , C19H22N20,  is  formed,  which  is  white,  amorphous, 
very  soluble  in  ether ; its  hydrochlorate  is  amorphous  and  freely  soluble  in  water;  the 
precipitate  with  gold  chloride  does  not  turn  purple. 

The  last-named  alkaloid  is  isomeric  with  homocinclionidine , homocinchonine , and  homo- 
cinchonicine , the  first  of  which  forms  the  bulk  of  Winckler’s  cinchovatine  ( aricine ),  from 
Cinch,  ovata,  has  a left  rotation,  and  forms  a sulphate  crystallizing  with  6H20  in  delicate 
needles  of  a gelatinous  aspect  which  fuse  near  30°  C.  (86°  F.).  It  resembles  magnesia 
when  anhydrous,  and  in  this  condition  forms  with  chloroform  a jelly-like  mass.  On  melt- 
ing, the  anhydrous  monobasic  sulphate  of  this  alkaloid,  homocinchonicine,  is  formed. 
Homocinchonine  is  present  in  the  bark  of  Cinch,  rosulenta,  which  contains  also  dihomo- 
cinchonine, C38H44N402 ; it  has  a right  rotation  and  is  amorphous,  like  its  salts. 

Commercial  cinchonidine  sometimes  contains  the  preceding  alkaloids,  and  in  addition 
thereto  hydrocinchonidine  or  cinchamidine , C19H24N20,  which  was  isolated  (1881)  by 
Hesse  and  by  Forst  and  Boehringer ; it  melts  near  230°  C.  (446°  F.),  is  levogyre,  and 
sparingly  soluble  in  chloroform,  ether,  and  water. 

The  same  chemists  have  shown  (1881,  1882)  in  commercial  quinidine  the  presence  of 
hydroquinidine  or  hydroconchinine , C20H26N2O2,  which  melts  near  167°  C.  (332.6°  F.),  is 
dextrogyre,  dissolves  freely  in  hot  alcohol  and  chloroform,  and  with  some  difficulty  in 
ether,  and  yields  fluorescent  solutions  and  thalleioquine,  like  quinine.  This  base  has  been 
found  by  Hesse  also  in  cuprea-bark. 

Hesse  (1882)  isolated  also  from  cuprea-bark  hydrocinchonine , C19I124N20,  which  differs 
in  some  of  its  properties  from  Skraup’s  cinchotine  (see  Cinchonine  Sulphas),  and 
hydroquinine , C20H26N2O2,  which  melts  at  168°  C.  (334.4°  F.),  is  easily  soluble  in  ether, 
and  yields  fluorescent  solutions  and  thalleioquine,  like  quinine.  The  above  hydro-bases 
are  not  oxidized  by  potassium  permanganate  in  the  cold. 

Homoquinine , C19H22N202,  was  observed  in  cuprea-bark  by  Tod  (1880),  and  further 
studied  by  Howard,  Paul,  Whiffen,  and  others.  It  melts  at  177°  C.  (350.6°  F.),  is  freely 
soluble  in  alcohol  and  chloroform,  sparingly  in  ether,  and  shows  fluorescence  and  thalleio- 
quine reaction,  like  quinine.  It  is  Whiffen’s  ultraquinine.  Arnaud’s  cinclwnamine , C19H24N20, 
discovered  (1881)  in  a Colombian  cinchona-bark,  is  soluble  in  ether,  melts  at  195°  C. 
(383°  F.),  and  yields  crystallizable  salts  which,  with  the  exception  of  the  sulphate,  are 
sparingly  soluble  in  cold  water  and  in  diluted  acids. 

Diconchinine , C40H46N4O3,  and  dicinchonine , C38H44N402  are  the  principal  constituents  of 
chinoidine.  (See  Chinoidinum.) 

The  white  cinchona-bark  of  Payta  contains,  according  to  Hesse  (1870),  crystallizable 
pay  tine , C21H24N20  4-  H20,  and  amorphous  paytamine,  which  resemble  quinamine  in 
their  behavior  to  gold  chloride  and  solubility  in  ether,  but  differ  in  being  levogyre  and 
readily  precipitated  by  platinum  chloride.  This  bark,  however,  has  been  ascertained 
by  Hesse  (1883)  to  come  from  a species  of  Aspidosperma. 

Hesse  (1877)  obtained  from  a young  Bolivian  Calisaya  bark  a liquid  alkaloid  having  a 
penetrating  odor  suggesting  that  of  quinoline,  and  from  Java  Calisaya  bark  crystallizable 
javanine , which  is  very  easily  soluble  in  ether  and  dissolves  in  dilute  sulphuric  acid  with 
an  intense  yellow  color.  From  the  mother-liquors  of  the  preparation  of  quinine,  Hesse 
(1882)  obtained  a volatile  base,  cincholine , as  a pale-yellow  oil,  freely  soluble  in  ether, 
alcohol,  and  chloroform,  and  nearly  tasteless  in  neutral  solutions.  Fliickiger  (1883)  sug- 


490 


* CINCHONA. 


gests  that  it  may  have  originated  from  the  hydrocarbons  used  in  the  process.  Howard’s 
liquid  alkaloid  (1871)  had  the  composition  C20H24N2O2,  and  yielded  thalleioquine  and  a 
crystallizable  freely-soluble  oxalate. 

The  relation  of  the  cinchona  alkaloids  to  each  other  in  regard  to  their  ultimate  compo- 
sition will  be  observed  from  the  following : 

C23H26N204 : cusconine  and  aricine. 

C21H24N20 : pay  tine. 

C20H26N2O2 : hydroquinine,  hydroquinidine  (hydroconchinine). 

C20H24N2O2 : quinine,  quinidine,  quinicine,  and  2(C20H24N2O2)  — H20  : diconchinine. 

C19H.24N202 : quinamine,  conquinamine,  quinamidine,  and  quinamicine. 

C49H24N20 : hydrocinchonine  (cinchotine),  hydrocinchonidine  (cinchamidine),  and  cin- 
chonamine. 

C19H22N202 : homoquinine,  apoquinine. 

C19H22N20 : cinchonine,  cinchonidine,  cinchonicine,  apoquinamine,  homocinchonine, 
homocinchonidine  and  homocinchonicine,  and  2(C19H22N20)  : dicinchonicine. 

C17H20N2O : protoquinamine. 

C16H18N20 : paricine. 

Not  analyzed:  cusconidine,  cuscamine,  cuscamidine,  javanine,  cincholine. 

The  characteristic  properties  of  the  four  principal  cinchona  alkaloids  may  be  compared 
as  follows : 


Rotary  power, 
Soluble  in  water, 
Soluble  in  80  per 
cent,  alcohol, 
Soluble  in  ether, 
Sulphuric  acid  solu- 
tions, 

Chlorine-water  and 
ammonia, 

Chlorine-water,  fer- 
rocyanide  of  po- 
tassium, and  am- 
monia, 

Anhydrous  sulphate, 
soluble  in  chloro- 
form, 

Hydriodate, 


Iodosulphate, 


QUININE. 


Levogyre. 
167  parts. 
6 “ 


QUINIDINE. 


Dextrogyre. 
2000  parts. 
26  « 


CINCHONINE. 

Dextrogyre. 
3740  parts. 
133  “ 


CINCHONIDINE. 

Levogyre. 
1680  parts. 
20  “ 


23  “ 30  “ 

Are  fluorescent,  1 in  200,000. 

Emerald-green  thalleioquine. 

Dark-red  solutions. 


371  “ 76.4  “ 

Not  fluorescent. 

White  precipitates. 

No  coloration. 


1000  parts.  19.5  parts. 


60  parts. 


1000  parts. 


More  soluble  than 
next. 

Green  in  reflected, 
colorless  in  trans- 
mitted light ; sol- 
uble in  1000  parts 
boiling  water. 


Soluble  in  1270  parts 
water,  or  110  parts 
alcohol. 

Similar  to  preceding, 
but  different  tint. 


Readily  soluble  in 
chloroform,  alcohol, 
ether,  and  water. 

Purplish-black ; in 
transmitted  light 
yellow  or  reddish. 


Slightly  in  water, 
readily  in  alcohol. 

Purplish  garnet-red ; 
in  transmitted  light 
like  preceding. 


The  iodosulphates  are  obtained  by  dissolving  the  sulphates  in  weak  alcohol,  acidulating 
with  sulphuric  acid,  precipitating  with  tincture  of  iodine,  and  crystallizing  the  precipitate 
from  alcohol. 

A mixture  of  the  more  or  less  purified  alkaloids  obtained  from  red  and  other  cinchona- 
barks  has  been  used  in  India  and  other  countries  under  the  designation  of  quinetum , cin- 
chona febrifuge , etc.  In  this  country  several  secret  preparations  have  been  introduced 

under  various  names,  consisting  either  wholly  or  chiefly  of  cinchonine  or  chinoidine. 

Other  Constituents. — The  alkaloids  are  combined  with  one  or  more  of  the  following  acids : 
kinic,  kinovic,  and  cinchotannic  acids. 

Kinic  or  quinic  acid  (Chinasaure),  C7H1206,  is  found  in  cinchona-barks  and  in  many  plants  of 
the  natural  orders  Rubiacese,  Yaccineae,  etc.  The  calcium  salt  was  first  prepared  by  De  Legaraye 
(1745)5  the  acid  was  recognized  by  Ilermbstaedt  (1785)  as  being  organic,  and  supposed  to  be 
tartaric  acid.  But  F.  C.  Hoffmann  (1790)  proved  it  to  be  distinct,  and  named  it  kinic  acid.  The 
investigations  of  Deschamps  (1795),  Vauquelin  (1806),  and  others  corroborated  these  results,  and 
Liebig  (1830)  and  others  determined  its  composition.  According  to  Ilesse,  it  is  not  present  in 
euprea-bark.  In  the  preparation  of  quinine  it  is  contained  in  the  filtrate  from  the  precipitated 
alkaloids.  It  appears  to  be  present  to  the  amount  of  5 to  7,  or  even  9,  per  cent.,  and  when  pure 
forms  transparent  colorless  oblique  rhombic  prisms  which  fuse  at  162°  C.,  are  readily  soluble  in 
water,  less  in  strong  alcohol,  and  slightly  in  ether.  On  treating  it  or  one  of  its  salts  with 
manganese  peroxide  and  sulphuric  acid,  it  yields,  besides  carbon  oxide  and  formic  acid,  a 
golden-yellow  crystalline  sublimate  of  kinone  or  quinone , C6II402.  On  being  heated  with  hydri- 
odic  acid  it  is  converted  into  benzoic  acid,  and  when  fused  with  potassium  hydroxide  it  yields 
protocatechuic  acid. 


CINCHONA. 


491 


Kinovic  or  quinovic  add , C24II3804,  is  met  with  in  the  East  Indian  harks,  and  forms  a tasteless 
shining  crystalline  powder  which  is  insoluble  in  water  and  chloroform,  slightly  soluble  in  ether 
and  cold  alcohol,  but  soluble  in  alkalies  and  alkaline  carbonates.  It  was  discovered  by  Illasiwetz 
(1859)  as  a product  of  the  decomposition  of  kinovin. 

Kinovin  or  quinovin , C30II48O8,  was  discovered  by  Pelletier  and  Caventou  (1821),  and  at  first 
named  quinovic  acid , afterward  quinova  bitter;  its  glucoside  nature  was  determined  by  Illasiwetz 
(1859).  It  is  an  amorphous  mass  of  a disagreeable  bitter  taste,  sparingly  soluble  In  cold  water, 
soluble  in  ether,  acetone,  chloroform,  fixed  and  volatile  oils,  and  freely  soluble  in  alcohol.  Its 
compounds  with  the  alkalies,  lime,  and  magnesia  are  soluble  in  water.  Its  solution  in  alcohol, 
treated  with  hydrochloric  acid  gas,  yields  kinovic  acid  and  uncrystallizable  mannitan  (kinovin 
sugar),  C6II1205.  It  has  been  found  in  different  cinchona-barks  in  quantities  varying  between 
0.11  and  1.74  per  cent.,  and  is  also  contained  in  the  barks  of  Esenbeckia  febrifuga  and  Buena 
magnifolia  (China,  s.  Quina  nova , hence  its  name). 

Cinchotannic  (or  qninotannic ) acid  appears  to  be  present  in  the  best  cinchona-barks  to  the 
amount  of  2 to  4 per  cent.  By  treating  the  decoction  with  magnesia,  precipitating  the  filtrate 
with  lead  acetate,  decomposing  with  hydrogen  sulphide,  and  repeating  this  process,  it  is 
obtained  as  a pale-yellow  mass  of  an  acidulous  and  astringent  taste,  readily  soluble  in  water, 
alcohol,  and  ether,  turning  greenish  with  salts  of  iron,  and  yielding  cinchona-red  with  alkalies 
or  on  being  boiled  with  water.  According  to  Rembold  (1867),  by  boiling  with  dilute  sulphuric 
acid  it  is  split  into  sugar  and 

Cinchona-red , C28II22014,  which  is  nearly  insoluble  in  water  and  ether,  but  dissolves  readily  in 
alkaline  solutions  and  alcohol.  It  yields  protocatechuic  acid  when  treated  with  fusing  potassa. 
Though  contained  in  all  cinchona-barks,  those  having  a red  color  contain  it  in  largest  proportion 
— thick  red  bark  over  10  per  cent. 

The  odor  of  cinchona-barks  is  due  to  a minute  quantity  of  a butyraceous  volatile  oil , 
which  was  first  obtained  by  Fabbroni.  Trommsdorff  obtained  2 grains  from  20  pounds 
of  pale  bark.  The  remaining  constituents  are  of  no  importance  either  medicinally  or 
pharmaceutically ; they  comprise  starch,  gum,  sugar,  resin,  fat,  wax,  ammonium  salts, 
and  calcium  oxalate,  all  in  small  quantities.  Kerner’s  cinchocerotin , C27H4802,  according 
to  Helms  (1883),  appears  to  be  related  to  betulin.  The  ash  amounts  to  between  1 and 
3 per  cent.,  and  consists  mostly  of  the  carbonates  of  calcium  and  potassium. 

Variation  of  Alkaloids. — The  distribution  of  the  various  constituents,  and  more 
especially  of  the  alkaloids,  is  a matter  of  as  great  importance  to  the  physician  and  phar- 
macist as  to  the  manufacturer  of  quinine.  It  has  been  amply  demonstrated  that  barks 
obtained  from  the  same  species  grown  in  different  localities,  according  to  Karsten,  even 
in  their  native  forests,  may  vary  greatly,  not  only  in  the  total  amount  of  the  alkaloids 
contained  therein,  but  likewise  in  the  relative  proportion  of  the  alkaloids.  Cultivated 
barks  have  been  found  to  contain  from  9 to  12  per  cent,  of  alkaloids,  and  Cinch.  Ledger- 
iana  is  often  very  rich  in  quinine,  containing  sometimes  13  per  cent. ; yet  these  same 
species  yield  frequently  much  smaller  amounts.  While  there  can  be  no  doubt  that  this 
variation  is  caused  by  external  influences,  the  proper  course  to  be  pursued  in  cultivation 
for  increasing  the  percentage  of  alkaloids,  of  quinine  in  particular,  has  as  yet  not  been 
discovered.  More  or  less  shade  has  an  effect  on  the  percentage  of  alkaloids  of  the  bark ; 
it  has  been  found  that  quinine  and  quinidine  are  present  in  larger  quantity  in  the  bark 
of  trees  growing  in  the  interior  of  the  woods — in  other  words,  in  the  shade — than  in 
those  growing  on  the  border.  With  quinine  the  difference  may  amount  to  % to  lh  per 
cent.  The  opposite  is  the  case  with  cinchonidine,  cinchonine,  and  the  amorphous  alka- 
loids— i.  e.  the  largest  yield  being  from  trees  growing  in  the  sun.  Hooper  (1888)  has 
studied  the  variation  of  alkaloidal  strength  in  Cinchona  succirubra  and  C.  officinalis  and 
their  hybrids,  which  is  of  importance  in  view  of  the  fact  that  although  C.  officinalis  is 
rich  in  quinine,  it  ip  a rather  slow  grower,  while  C.  succirubra  is  of  rapid  growth,  but 
contains  less  quinine.  The  hybrids  resemble  their  parent-plants  in  being  of  a rapid 
growth,  like  the  former,  being  near  to  the  latter  in  alkaloidal  strength.  Young  barks 
are  known  to  yield,  as  a rule,  a smaller  percentage  of  alkaloids  than  the  bark  of  older 
wood,  and  attention  has  been  directed  to  the  frequently  large  yield  from  the  root-bark. 
Investigations  by  D.  Howard  (1877)  point  to  the  general  tendency  of  the  root-barks 
obtained  from  different  species  of  Cinchona  to  augment  very  materially  the  amount 
of  dextrogyrate  alkaloids  (quinidine  and  cinchonine),  while  the  levogyrate  alkaloids  (qui- 
nine and  cinchonidine)  are  produced  in  much  smaller  proportion.  The  bark  of  the  root- 
fibres  usually  contains  a still  smaller  percentage  of  these  alkaloids. 

That  a certain  protection  is  beneficial  for  the  production  of  the  alkaloids  has  been 
shown  by  experiments  made  in  the  East  Indies.  Howard  (1871)  demonstrated  the  pres- 
ence of  9.75  per  cent,  of  quinine  (or  a total  of  11.40  per  cent,  of  alkaloids)  in  bark  from 
Cinch,  officinalis,  var.  lanceolata,  and  Broughton  (1870),  a total  of  13.5  with  9 per  cent. 


492 


CINCHONA. 


of  quinine.  The  variety  pubescens,  of  the  same  species,  yielded  to  Howard  (1878)  12.90 
per  cent,  of  alkaloids,  of  which  6.94  was  quinine  and  4.48  cinchonidine.  Indian  red  bark 
in  quills  often  yields  from  9 to  11  per  cent,  of  alkaloids,  one-sixth  to  one-third  of  which 
is  quinine  (He  Vrij,  1873),  and  from  the  bark  of  C.  officinalis,  grown  at  Ootacamund, 
between  3.72  and  10.86  per  cent,  of  alkaloids,  one-fifth  to  two-thirds  of  which  is  quinine; 
the  extraordinary  yield  of  some  of  this  bark  has  been  referred  to  above. 

The  wood  of  the  root  and  trunk  contains  kinovin,  and  occasionally  about  i per  cent, 
of  alkaloids,  according  to  Moens  (1880).  A minute  amount  of  alkaloid  has  also  been 
found  by  Broughton  (1870)  in  the  leaves , the  bitter  taste  of  which  is  mainly  due  to 
about  2 per  cent,  of  kinovin  ; while  Happersberger  (1883)  reports  having  obtained  0.5 
per  cent,  of  alkaloids  from  the  leaves  of  C.  officinalis,  1.5  per  cent,  from  those  of  C.  suc- 
cirubra,  and  2 per  cent,  from  those  of  C.  Calisaya.  The  bitter  taste  of  the  flowers , accord- 
ing to  Broughton,  is  due  to  kinovin,  and  the  fruit , which  is  likewise  bitter,  contains  mere 
traces  of  alkaloid. 

Valuation  of  Cinchona-bark. — Cinchona  should  contain  not  less  than  5 per  cent,  of  alka- 
loids, at  least  one-half  of  which  should  be  quinine. — U.  S.  This  last  requirement  is  not  made  of 
Cinchona  rubra.  A definite  percentage  of  alkaloids  for  yellow  and  pale  cinchona  is  not 
required  by  the  British  Pharmacopoeia ; red  cinchona,  on  the  other  hand,  should  contain  between 
5 and  6 per  cent,  of  total  alkaloids,  quinine  and  cinchonidine  making  up  more  than  half  of  this 
amount.  Cinchona  should  contain  at  least  5 per  cent,  of  alkaloids. — P.  G. 

Process  of  U.  S.  P. — I.  For  total  alkaloids:  Cinchona,  in  No.  80  (or  finer)  powder,  and  com- 
pletely dried  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  20  Gm. ; Alcohol ; Ammonia-water ; Chloroform ; Ether ; 
Normal  Sulphuric  Acid  ; Normal  Potassium  Hydroxide  solution  each,  a sufficient  quantity.  To 
20  Gm.  of  cinchona,  in  very  fine  powder,  and  contained  in  a bottle  provided  with  an  accurately- 
ground  glass  stopper,  add  200  Cc.  of  a previously  prepared  mixture  of  19  volumes  of  alcohol,  5 
volumes  of  chloroform,  and  1 volume  of  ammonia-water ; stopper  the  bottle,  and  shake  it 
thoroughly  and  frequently  during  four  hours.  Then  separate  the  liquid  by  pouring  it  into 
another  bottle  through  a funnel  containing  a pellet  of  cotton,  in  such  a manner  that  no  material 
loss  may  result  from  evaporation.  Transfer  100  Cc.  of  the  clear  filtrate  (representing  10  Gm.  of 
cinchona)  to  a beaker,  and  evaporate  it  to  dryness.  Dissolve  the  residue  of  crude  alkaloids  thus 
obtained  in  10  Cc.  of  water  and  4 Cc.  of  normal  sulphuric  acid  with  the  aid  of  a gentle  heat, 
filter  the  cooled  solution  into  a separatory  funnel,  and  wash  the  filter  until  the  filtrate  no  longer 
has  an  acid  reaction,  using  as  small  a quantity  of  water  as  possible.  Now  add  5 Cc.  of  normal 
potassium  hydroxide  solution,  or  such  an  amount  as  will  render  the  liquid  decidedly  alkaline, 
and  extract  the  alkaloids  by  shaking  the  mixure,  first  with  20  Cc.,  and  then  repeatedly  with  10 
Cc.  of  chloroform,  until  a drop  of  the  last  chloroform  extraction,  when  evaporated  on  a watch- 
glass,  no  longer  leaves  a residue.  Evaporate  the  united  chloroform  extracts  in  a tared  beaker, 
dry  the  residue  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.),  and  weigh.  The  weight  found,  multiplied  by  10,  will  give 
the  percentage  of  total  alkaloids  in  the  specimen  of  cinchona  tested. 

II.  For  quinine:  Transfer  50  Cc.  of  the  clear  filtrate  remaining  over  from  the  preceding  pro- 
cess (and  representing  5 Gm.  of  cinchona)  to  a beaker,  evaporate  it  to  dryness,  and  proceed  as 
directed  in  the  assay  for  total  alkaloids,  using,  however,  only  one-half  the  amounts  of  volumetric 
acid  and  alkali  there  directed.  Add  the  united  chloroformic  extracts  containing  the  alkaloids 
in  solution,  gradually  and  in  small  portions  at  a time,  to  about  5 Gm.  of  powdered  glass  con- 
tained in  a porcelain  capsule  placed  over  a water-bath,  so  that,  when  the  contents  of  the  capsule 
are  dry,  all  or  nearly  all  of  the  dry  alkaloids  shall  be  in  intimate  mixture  with  the  ground  glass. 
Now  moisten  the  residue  with  ether,  and,  having  placed  a funnel  containing  a filter  of  a diam- 
eter of  7 Cm.  and  well  wetted  with  ether,  over  a small  graduated  tube  (A),  transfer  to  the  filter 
the  ether-moistened  residue  from  the  capsule.  Rinse  the  latter  several  times,  if  necessary,  with 
fresh  ether,  so  as  to  transfer  the  whole  of  the  residue  to  the  filter ; then  percolate  with  ether 
added  drop  by  drop,  until  exactly  10  Cc.  of  percolate  has  been  obtained.  Then  collect  another 
volume  of  10  Cc.,  by  similar  slow  percolation  with  ether,  in  a second  gradulated  tube  (B). 
Transfer  the  contents  of  the  two  tubes  completely  (using  ether  for  washing)  to  two  small,  tared 
capsules,  properly  marked  (A  and  B)  so  as  to  avoid  confusion,  evaporate  to  a constant  weight, 
and  weigh  them.  (The  residue  in  A will  contain  practically  all  the  quinine,  together  with  a 
portion  of  the  alkaloids  less  soluble  in  ether ; the  residue  in  B will  consist  almost  entirely  of 
these  alkaloids.)  From  the  amount  of  residue  obtained  in  capsule  A deduct  that  contained  in 
B,  and  multiply  the  remainder  by  20.  The  product  will  represent,  approximately,  the  percent- 
age of  quinine  in  the  specimen  of  cinchona  tested. 

Process  of  the  Br.  P. — Cinchona  in  No.  60  powder  200  gr. ; mix  intimately  with  calcium 
hydroxide  60  gr.,  then  with  water  | oz.  and  set  aside  for  an  hour  or  two.  Transfer  the  moist  dark- 
brown  powder  to  a six-ounce  flask,  add  3 fl.  oz.  of  benzolated  amylic  alcohol  (benzene  3 vol.,  amyl 
alcohol  1 vol.)  ; boil  for  half  an  hour ; decant  and  drain  off  the  liquid  on  to  a filter,  leaving  the 
powder  in  the  flask ; repeat  boiling  and  decanting ; then  boil  a third  time  ; turn  the  contents  of 
the  flask  on  to  the  filter,  and  percolate  with  benzolated  amylic  alcohol  until  the  bark  is  exhausted. 
(During  the  boiling  a convenient  condenser  is  formed  by  placing  a funnel  in  the  mouth  of  the 
flask,  and  in  the  funnel  a flask  with  cold  water.)  Mix  in  a stoppered  glass  separator  the  still 
warm  filtrate  with  20  minims  of  diluted  hydrochloric  acid  and  2 fluidrachms  of  water ; shake 


CINCH ONIDINJE  S ULPHA  S. 


493 


well,  let  separate,  draw  off  the  acid  liquid,  and  repeat  this  process  with  slightly  acidulated  water 
until  the  alkaloids  have  been  removed.  Neutralize  while  warm  exactly  with  ammonia-,  evap- 
orate to  3 fluidrachms,  add  solution  of  tartarated  soda  15  gr.  in  water  30  gr. ; stir,  after  an  hour, 
filter,  and  dry  the  precipitated  tartrates ; eight-tenths  of  their  weight,  divided  by  2,  represents 
the  percentage  of  quinine  and  cinchonidine.  To  the  mother-liquor  add  ammonia  in  slight 
excess  ; collect,  wash,  and  dry  the  precipitate  ; its  weight,  divided  by  2,  represents  the  percent- 
age of  the  other  alkaloids , and  this,  added  to  the  preceding,  gives  the  percentage  of  total  alka- 
loids. 

Process  o f the  P.  G. — Agitate  powdered  cinchona  20  Gm.  with  ammonia-water  10  Cc.,  alcohol 
20  Cc.,  and  ether  170  Cc.,  and  macerate  for  a day  ; decant  off  the  clear  liquid  100  Gm.,  add  to 
it  3 Cc.  normal  hydrochloric  acid  ; distil  and  evaporate  the  ether,  and,  if  necessary,  acidulate 
the  residue  with  normal  hydrochloric  acid ; filter,  and,  without  heating,  add  3.5  Cc. 
normal  potassa  solution,  or  sufficient  to  redden  phenolphthalein  solution;  collect  the  precipi- 
tate upon  a filter,  and  wash  it  repeatedly  with  small  portions  of  water  until  the  filtrate  ceases  to 
produce  a red  color  with  solution  of  phenolphthalein  ; drain  the  precipitate,  press  it  between 
bibulous  paper,  and  dry  it  first  in  the  air,  next  over  sulphuric  acid,  and  finally  in  the  water-bath, 
when  it  should  weigh  at  least  0.5  Gm.  A small  quantity  boiled  with  300  parts  of  water,  and 
filtered  while  hot,  should  on  cooling  separate  floccules  of ‘quinine,  and  on  adding  to  5 parts  of 
the  clear  cold  liquid  1 part  of  chlorine-water,  and  afterward  a little  ammonia-water,  a bright- 
green  color  should  be  produced. 

De  Yrifs  Process  (1885). — -20  gr.  of  finely-powdered  bark  are  mixed  with  a previously  pre- 
pared mixture  of  3.4  Gm.  of  strong  hydrochloric  acid  (30  per  cent.)  and  20  Cc.  of  water,  so  as 
to  form  a thick  paste,  and  then  macerated  for  some  hours.  In  case  the  bark  contains  more  than 
10  per  cent,  of  alkaloids,  the  quantity  of  acid  must  be  increased,  as  the  quantity  of  acid  speci- 
fied is  for  a bark  of  this  strength.  More  water  is  then  stirred  in  until  the  whole  is  sufficiently 
fluid  to  pour  freely.  As  soon  as  the  foam  has  disappeared  the  whole  is  placed  into  a cylindrical 
glass  percolator  which  has  been  closed  by  a plug  of  charpie.  As  soon  as  the  percolate  runs 
clear  it  is  collected,  percolation  being  continued  by  pouring  on  water  until  an  excess  of  sodium 
hydroxide  fails  to  produce  a precipitate  in  the  percolate,  which  will  happen  when  180  or  200  Cc. 
have  been  collected.  This  is  then  precipitated  by  a large  excess  of  solution  of  sodium  hydroxide, 
collected  on  a double  filter,  and  the  precipitate  washed  until  the  water  runs  off  nearly  colorless. 
The  whole  filtrate  is  then  measured,  and  0.0585  Gm.  for  every  100  Cc.  added  to  the  weight  of 
alkaloid  found.  The  drained  filter  is  carefully  dried  on  blotting-paper  until  the  precipitate 
ceases  to  adhere,  when  it  may  be  easily  detached  without  loss.  It  is  transferred  to  a tared  dish 
and  dried  over  a water-bath  until  it  ceases  to  lose  weight.  Add  to  this  the  compensation  for  the 
dissolved  alkaloids,  multiply  the  sum  by  5,  and  the  product  is  the  percentage  of  alkaloids  in  the 
bark.  Or  after  precipitating  with  caustic  soda  the  liquid  can  be  shaken  with  one  litre  of  ben- 
zene, and  allowed  to  stand  not  longer  than  five  minutes,  the  benzene  decanted  on  to  a filter  pre- 
viously moistened  with  benzene,  and  the  red-colored  aqueous  liquid  put  into  a separatory  funnel 
for  complete  separation.  The  aqueous  liquid  is  drawn  off  and  shaken  with  200  Cc.  benzene, 
which  latter,  after  filtration,  is  mixed  with  the  other  benzene  solution.  The  benzene  solution  is 
shaken  with  30  Cc.  very  dilute  nitric  acid,  this  drawn  off  and  replaced  by  20  Cc.  water,  which 
after  shaking  is  drawn  off  and  mixed  with  the  first.  The  liquids  are  then  heated  to  drive  off  all 
odor  of  benzene ; when  cool  are  transferred  to  a separatory  funnel  and  shaken  with  200  Cc. 
ether  and  an  excess  of  caustic  soda.  After  separating  the  ethereal  solution,  another  100  Cc.  of 
ether  is  shaken  with  the  alkaline  liquor  and  added  to  the  first.  The  ether  is  then  distilled  and 
the  alkaloids  obtained  in  a state  of  purity. 

The  alkaloids  can  be  estimated  volumetrically  by  using  in  place  of  the  nitric  acid  70  Cc.  deci- 
normal  sulphuric  acid,  and  subsequently  30  Cc.  water.  The  aqueous  solutions  are  then  heated 
and  accurately  neutralized  with  decinormal  solution  of  caustic  soda  until  the  color  of  reddened 
litmus  is  affected  by  it.  The  quantity  of  soda  solution  used  is  deducted  from  70,  the  quantity 
otherwise  necessary:  the  difference,  multiplied  by  .031,  is  the  weight  of  alkaloid  in  20  Gm.  of 
bark.  The  product,  multiplied  by  5,  gives  the  percentage. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  action  and  uses  of  cinchona  will  be  more  conveniently 
studied  in  connection  with  its  several  preparations  and  those  of  its  constituents,  to  the 
articles  upon  which  the  reader  is  referred.  A brief  account  of  its  introduction  into 
medicine  is  given  under  Quininse  Sulphas. 

CINCHONIDINE  SULPHAS,  U.  S.,  Br.— Cinchonidine  Sulphate. 

Cinchonidinum  sulfuricum. — Sulphate  of  cinchonidine , E. ; Sulfate  de  cinchonidine , Fr. ; 
Cinchonidin-Sidfut,  G.  ; Solfato  di  cinconidina}  It.,  Sp. 

Formula  (C^ILa^O^HaSCLSILO.  Molecular  weight  738.5. 

The  neutral  sulphate  of  an  alkaloid  prepared  from  certain  species  of  Cinchona,  chiefly 
red  bark. 

Origin. — Certain  cinchona-barks,  notably  those  obtained  from  Cinch,  succirubra,  Pavon , 
and  Cinch,  officinalis,  Hooker , cultivated  in  India,  and  the  South  America  barks  from 
Cinch,  lancifolia,  Mutis,  and  Cinch,  tucujensis,  Karsfen , contain  cinchonidine.  A very 


494 


Cl NCH ONIDINJE  SULPHAS. 


similar  alkaloid,  called  homocinchonidine , is  rarely,  and  then  only  in  minute  quanti- 
ties, found  in  these  barks ; but  in  certain  lots  of  South  American  red  barks  the  second 
alkaloid  named  is  present  in  considerable  proportion,  wholly  or  partly  replacing  the 
former  (Hesse,  Berichte , 1881,  p.  1890).  These  alkaloids  were  at  first  described  by 
Winckler  (1847)  and  others  as  quinidine  or  chinidine , a name  which  was  retained  for  them 
long  after  Pasteur’s  investigations  in  1853  (see  Cinchona,  Constituents ) by  several  chem- 
ists, and  until  recently  by  several  manufacturers  in  Germany  and  Austria. 

Preparation. — In  the  process  of  manufacturing  quinine  sulphate,  and  while  recrys- 
tallizing this  salt,  mother-liquors  are  obtained  containing  mainly  cinchonidine  sulphate. 
On  concentrating  the  solutions  the  salt  crystallizes,  and  requires  purification  by  recrys- 
tallization from  water  in  order  to  obtain  it  free  from  quinine  and  quinidine  sulphate. 
Formerly,  it  could  be  prepared  from  commercial  chinoidine,  which  sometimes  contained 
notable  quantities  of  this  alkaloid. 

Properties. — Like  the  corresponding  salts  of  the  other  cinchona  alkaloids,  cinchoni- 
dine sulphate  is  colorless,  inodorous,  very  bitter,  and  has  a neutral  or  faintly  alkaline 
reaction.  It  crystallizes  from  alcohol  in  handsome  prisms  containing  2H20,  but  from 
water  it  may  be  obtained  in  two  forms — eithe.r  in  colorless  square  glossy  prisms,  or  in 
less  lustrous  fine  and  silky  needles,  the  formation  of  either  crystals  depending  upon  both 
the  concentration  and  the  quantity  of  the  solution.  The  commercial  salt  resembles 
quinine  sulphate  in  appearance.  The  anhydrous  salt  dissolves,  according  to  Hesse,  at 
22°  C.  (71.6°  F.)  in  97.5  parts,  and  the  crystallized  salt  in  67  parts  (70  parts  at  15°  C., 
U.  S.  P.),  of  water;  it  is  soluble  in  66  parts  of  alcohol  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  in  1.42  parts 
of  boiling  water,  and  in  8 parts  of  boiling  alcohol  ( U.  S.  Pi)  ; it  dissolves  readily  and 
freely  in  diluted  acids,  the  solutions  being  free  from  fluorescence,  is  very  sparingly 
soluble  in  ether  and  benzene,  becomes  gelatinous  from  the  separation  of  its  water  of 
crystallization  when  immersed  in  chloroform,  and  dissolves  in  1316  parts  of  that  liquid 
at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  and  in  300  parts  at  63.5°  C.  (146.3°  F.),  but  more  freely  in  chlo- 
roform containing  alcohol.  The  solubility  in  ether  and  chloroform  is  increased 
by  the  presence  of  the  sulphates  of  other  cinchona  alkaloids.  On  exposure  to  air 
the  salt  effloresces ; at  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  it  loses  its  water  of  crystallization,  and 
in  moist  air  absorbs  again  2H20 ; at  215°  C.  (419°  F.)  it  fuses,  and  on  ignition 
it  is  decomposed  and  volatilized,  without  leaving  any  residue.  The  aqueous  solution 
yields  with  barium  chloride  a white  precipitate  insoluble  in  diluted  hydrochloric  acid ; it 
is  precipitated  by  potassio-mercuric  iodide  and  other  regents  for  alkaloids,  by  neutral 
tartrates,  and  by  ammonia.  The  latter  precipitate  dissolves  in  about  seventy-five  times 
its  weight  of  ether,  and  requires  about  twelve  times  more  ammonia-water  for  solution 
than  the  precipitate  from  a corresponding  solution  of  quinine  sulphate  (Kerner, 
1862).  On  mixing  a drop  of  an  aqueous  solution  of  the  salt  with  a drop  of  solution  of 
potassium  sulphocyanate,  microscopic  crystals  are  formed,  which  are  either  feathery  and 


Fig.  72.  Fig.  73. 


stellately  arranged  around  a centre,  or  are  spike-like  and  united  in  star-like  or  fan-shaped 
groups.  According  to  Hesse  (1878),  cinchonidine  sulphate  is  so  completely  precipitated 
by  an  excess  of  potassium  sulphocyanate  that  the  filtrate  is  not  rendered  turbid  by 
ammonia. 

Homocinchonidine  sulphate  has  the  composition  and  properties  described  above,  but 
crystallizes  either  in  dull-white  prisms  or  in  delicate  white  needles,  requires  at  22°  C. 
(71.6°  F.)  69  parts  of  water  for  solution,  and  its  aqueous  solution,  saturated  at  50°  C. 


CINCH  ON  ID  INJE  SULPHAS. 


495 


(122°  F.),  congeals  on  cooling  to  a gelatinous  mass  consisting  of  delicate  crystals  and 
enclosing  the  mother-liquor,  while  under  the  same  conditions  the  cinchonidine  salt  yields 
glossy  needles,  from  which  the  mother-liquor  may  be  readily  drained.  Both  salts  on 
being  treated  with  potassium  permanganate  yield  cinchotenidine , C18II20N.2O:i,  which  was 
discovered  by  Skraup  (1879),  crystallizes  with  3H.20  in  colorless  prisms,  melts  at  256°  C., 
and  is  not  fluorescent  in  acid  solutions  (Hesse,  1881). 

Tests. — The  solution  of  the  salt  (1  in  1000)  in  dilute  sulphuric  acid  should  not  show 
more  than  a slight  blue  fluorescence  (absence  of  more  than  traces  of  sulphate  of  quinine 
or  of  quinidine).  The  salt  should  not  be  colored  by  the  addition  of  sulphuric  acid 
(absence  of  foreign  organic  matters)  ; on  adding  to  this  solution  a crystal  of  potassium 
dichromate  the  liquid  should  become  yellowish-green,  gradually  changing  to  grass-green 
in  color.  If  1 6m.  be  dried  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  until  it  ceases  to  lose  weight,  the 
residue,  .cooled  in  a desiccator,  should  weigh  not  less  than  0.92  Gm.  (loss  is  equivalent 
to  3H20,  water  of  crystallization  ; absence  of  an  undue  amount  of  water.)  If  0.5  Gm. 
of  the  salt  be  digested  with  20  Cc.  of  cold  distilled  water,  0.5  Gm.  of  potassium  sodium 
tartrate  added,  the  mixture  macerated,  with  frequent  agitation,  for  1 hour  at  15°  0. 
(59°  F.),  then  filtered,  and  a drop  of  ammonia-water  added  to  the  filtrate,  not  more 
than  a slight  turbidity  should  appear  (absence  of  more  than  small  proportions  of  sul- 
phates of  cinchonine  or  quinidine). — U S. 

Composition. — Pasteur  (1853)  gave  to  cinchonidine  the  formula  C20H24N2O  ; Skraup 
(1879)  corrected  it  to  C,9H.22N.20,  which  has  been  verified  by  Hesse  and  Claus  (1881), 
although  the  latter  states  that  commercial  cinchonidine  occasionally  corresponds  better  with 
the  first  formula.  Skraup  and  Claus  regard  homocinchonidine  as  slightly  impure  cincho- 
nidine. Besides  the  differences  given  above,  Hesse  states  that  the  alkaloid  cinchonidine 
melts  at  200°  to  201°  C.  (392°  to  393.8°  F.),  while  homocinchonidine  melts  between 
205°  and  206°  C.  (401°  and  402.8°  F.).  The  sulphate  crystallizes  with  6H.20,  according 
to  Goddefroy  (1878),  from  hot  concentrated  solutions  with  3H.,0.  The  U.  S.  P.  has 
adopted  the  formula  of  Skraup,  requiring  7.31  per  cent.,  and  for  the  salt  with  6H20 
13.6  per  cent,  of  water  of  crystallization. 

Action  and  Uses. — In  a number  of  experiments  made  with  this  alkaloid  Cerna 
found  that  “its  effects  are  more  or  less  similar  to  those  produced  by  quinine,”  but  larger 
doses  of  it  are  required  to  produce  the  same  results  ( P/iila . Med.  Times , x.  495).  This 
conclusion  has  been  confirmed  by  See,  Rochefontaine,  and  Doureleurs.  In  regard  to  its 
action  on  man,  it  would  seem  to  occasion  less  disturbance  of  the  nervous  system  than 
quinine,  less  ringing  in  the  ears,  and  less  disturbance  of  vision,  and  vertigo.  Like  qui- 
nine, it  reduces  the  febrile  pulse. 

Repeated  and  extended  observation  of  the  use  of  cinchonidine  in  the  treatment  of 
intermittent  fever , remittent  fever , and  malarial  neuralgia,  made  both  in  this  country  (e.  g. 
Sinkler,  1874)  and  in  British  India,  proves  conclusively  its  equal  or  nearly  equal  efficacy 
with  quinine  in  these  diseases,  both  as  a prophylactic  and  as  a remedy.  Yet  Marty,  who 
had  a large  clinical  experience  of  its  use,  declares  that  its  action  is  extremely  uncertain, 
and  that  it  is  apt  to  occasion  toxical  effects  when  used  in  doses  necessary  for  its  curative 
operation  (Bull,  de  Therap.,  cvi.  458).  In  typhoid  fever  it  has  been  found  to  induce  the 
same  subsidence  of  the  pulse  as  quinine,  and  its  equal  advantages  as  a tonic  have  been 
fully  shown.  It  has  seemed  to  be  well  borne  where  quinine  could  not  be  tolerated,  and 
to  be  especially  favorable  in  its  action  upon  children.  Hydrobromide  of  cinchonidine  has 
been  used  in  the  summer  complaint  of  children,  in  various  malarial  diseases,  inflamma- 
tions, and  organic  affections.  The  chief  result  of  these  experiments  is,  that  it  may  be 
administered  hypodermically  without  causing  local  irritation,  and  that  it  is  a more  efficient 
antipyretic  agent  than  quinine  in  an  equal  dose  (Med.  Record , xviii.  10,  153).  Salicylate 
of  cinchonidine  has  been  found  useful  by  Prosser  James  “ as  a tonic  and  antiperiodic  ” in 
doses  of  from  5 to  10  grains  (British  Med.  Jour.,  1881,  i.  428). 

The  modes  of  administration  of  sulphate  of  cinchonidine  are  the  same,  in  general,  as 
are  employed  for  sulphate  of  quinine,  but  it  does  not  appear  to  have  been  given  hypo- 
dermically ; the  hydrobromide,  however,  has  been  so  employed  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.20 
(gr.  iv)  twice  a day.  As  an  antiperiodic  either  preparation  should,  like  quinine,  be  pre- 
scribed in  doses  of  from  Gm.  0.60—1.30  (gr.  x— xx)  five  or  six  hours  before  the  expected 
paroxysm.  In  mild  cases  Gm.  0.60  (gr.  x)  in  divided  doses  may  be  given  during  the 
day, 


496 


CINCHONINA. 


CINCHONINA,  U.  S, — Cinchonine,  Cinchonia. 

Cinckoninum. — Cinchonine , Fr.  ; Cinclionin , G, ; Cinconina , It.,  Sp. 

Formula  C19H22N20.  Molecular  weight  293.41. 

An  alkaloid  prepared  from  the  bark  of  different  species  of  Cinchona. 

Origin. — This  alkaloid  was  discovered  by  Pelletier  and  Caventou  in  1820,  and 
has  been  found  in  most  cinchona-barks,  in  largest  proportion  in  some  of  the  pale  cin- 
chonas. 

Preparation. — It  is  best,  prepared  by  precipitating  the  aqueous  solution  of  cincho- 
nine sulphate  with  ammonia-water,  washing  the  precipitate  with  water  until  free  from 
ammonium  sulphate,  and  crystallizing  from  alcohol. 

Properties. — Cinchonine  is  in  transparent  “ white,  somewhat  lustrous  prisms  or  nee- 
dles, permanent  in  the  air,  odorless,  at  first  nearly  tasteless,  but  developing  a bitter  after- 
taste, and  having  an  alkaline  reaction;  soluble  in  3760  of  water,  and  in  116  parts 
(84.3  parts,  Prunier,  1879)  of  alcohol  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  in  3500  parts  of  boiling  water, 
in  26.5  parts  of  boiling  alcohol,  526  parts  of  ether,  163  parts  (101.6  parts,  Prunier)  of 
chloroform,  and  readily  soluble  in  diluted  acids,  forming  salts  of  a very  bitter  taste.  At 
240°  C.  (464°  F.)  the  crystals  fuse  together,  and  at  258°  C.  (496.4°  F.)  they  melt, 
forming  a brown  liquid.  On  ignition  the  alkaloid  is  dissipated  without  leaving  a resi- 
due.”— U.  S.  Cinchonine  is  insoluble  in  ammonia  and  potassa,  but  dissolves  in  108 
parts  of  amylic  alcohol,  in  warm  fixed  oils,  volatile  oils,  benzene,  and  benzin.  Its  solu- 
tions are  dextrogyrate ; its  acid  solutions  are  not  fluorescent,  and  do  not  give  the  thal- 
leioquine  reaction,  but  with  chlorine-water  and  ammonia  yield  a white  precipitate.  Its 
alcoholic  solution  gives  a yellow  precipitate  with  picric  acid  which  is  insoluble  in  acids. 
The  aqueous  solutions  of  its  salts  are  not  precipitated  by  bicarbonates  in  the  presence  of 
tartaric  acid,  but  yield  precipitates  with  ammonia  and  other  alkalies,  their  carbonates, 
with  tannin,  potassio-mercuric  iodide,  gold  chloride,  platinum  chloride,  phospho- 
molybdic  acid,  picric  acid,  and  other  reagents  for  alkaloids  ; also,  by  potassium  ferro- 
cyanide  (Dollfus.  1848).  This  last  reaction,  according  to  the  Pharmacopoeia,  is  to  be 
applied  in  the  following  manner  : If  enough  solution  of  potassium  ferrocyanide  be  added 
to  a neutral  or  not  more  than  faintly  acid  solution  of  cinchonine,  or  of  any  of  its  salts, 
to  redissolve  the  precipitate  first  formed,  and  afterward  an  acid,  a golden-yellow  precip- 
itate will  occur,  which  when  slightly  warmed  will  dissolve  in  the  liquid,  and  on  cooling 
separate  in  minute  scales  or  needles. 

By  the  action  of  potassa  on  cinchonine  Gerhardt  (1842)  obtained  quinoline,  and 
Greville  Williams  (1855,  1864)  showed  that  in  addition  to  this  base  the  distillate  also 
contained  lepidine,  cryptidine,  and  other  bases.  By  long-continued  boiling  of  its  chlo- 
ride with  alcohol  and  potassa,  Koenigs  (1881)  produced  from  cinchonine  a crystallizable 
volatile  base,  cinchene , C19H20N2.  Michael  (1886)  obtained  an  oily,  non-volatile  base, 
C20H26N2,  by  exposing  sodium  hydroxide,  cinchonine,  and  absolute  alcohol  to  a temperature 
of  130°  C.  (266°  F.)  in  a closed  tube.  On  oxidizing  cinchonine  or  its  salts  by  the 
action  of  lead  dioxide  and  sulphuric  acid,  E.  Marchand  (1844)  obtained  cinchotenine , 
which  is  more  readily  obtained,  according  to  Caventou  and  Willm,  by  the  action  of 
potassium  permanganate,  formic  acid  being  formed  at  the  same  time.  Cinchotenine, 
C18H20N2O3,  by  the  further  action  of  oxidizing  agents  yields  Weidel’s  (1874)  cinchonic 
(quinoline-carbonic  acid),  C10II7NO2,  cinchomeronic,  C7H5N04,  and  other  acids. 

Tests, — A solution  of  the  alkaloid  (1  in  1000)  in  diluted  sulphuric  acid  should  not 
exhibit  more  than  a faint  blue  fluorescence  (absence  of  more  than  traces  of  quinine  or 
quinidine).  On  precipitating  the  alkaloid  from  this  solution  by  water  of  ammonia  it  is 
very  sparingly  dissolved  by  the  latter  (difference  from  and  absence  of  quinine),  and 
requires  at  least  300  parts  of  ether  for  solution  (difference  from  quinine,  quinidine,  and 
cinchonidine).  It  should  not  be  colored,  or  but  very  slightly  colored,  by  the  addition 
of  sulphuric  acid  (absence  of  readily  carbonizable,  organic  impurities).” — U.  S. 

Composition. — The  formula  given  above  is  that  of  Laurent  (1848),  which  has 
been  corroborated  since  1877  by  Skraup  and  others  and  has  been  adopted  by  the  Phar- 
macopoeia. The  alkaloid  crystallizes  anhydrous.  As  found  in  commerce,  it  contains  a 
very  similar  alkaloid,  which  is  not  affected  by  cold  potassium  permanganate,  is  freely 
soluble  in  alcohol,  yields  a sulphate  crystallizing  in  sharp  needles,  and  is  freed  from  cin- 
chonine by  fractional  precipitation  ; Skraup  proposed  to  call  it  cinchotine , and  found  it 
to  be  identical  with  Caventou’s  and  Willm’s  hydrocinchonine.  C19H24N20. 


CINCHONINE  SULPHAS. 


497 


CINCHONINE  SULPHAS,  U.  S.,  Br.— Cinchonine  Sulphate. 

Cinchoniae,  sulphas,  U.  S.  1870;  Cinchonium  sulfuricum. — Sulfate  de  cinchonine,  Fr.  ; 
Schwefelsaures  Cinchonin,  Ginchoninsulfat,  G. ; Solfato  di  cinconina,  It.,  Sp. 

Formula  (Ci9H22N20)2.H2S04.2H20.  Molecular  weight  720.54. 

Preparation. — The  first  mother4iquors  obtained  in  the  preparation  of  quinine  sul- 
phate are  precipitated  with  soda,  and  the  precipitate  is  washed  first  with  water  to  free  it 
from  sodium  sulphate,  afterward  with  small  quantities  of  cold  alcohol,  in  which  the  other 
cinchona  alkaloids  are  more  readily  soluble  than  cinchonine.  The  residue  is  then  mixed 
with  about  eight  times  its  weight  of  water,  the  mixture  heated,  and  sulphuric  acid  is 
dropped  in  until  a clear  neutral  solution  is  obtained,  which  is  treated  with  animal  char- 
coal, filtered  while  hot,  and  set  aside  to  crystallize;  the  crystals  are  drained  and  dried. 

Properties. — Cinchonine  sulphate  crystallizes  in  hard,  transparent  and  colorless, 
or  semi  transparent  and  white  clinorhombic  prisms,  which  have  a glassy  lustre,  are  per- 
manent in  the  air,  inodorous,  lose  their  (4.98  per  cent.)  water  of  crystallization  at  100° 
C.  (212°  F.),  fuse  like  wax  at  a somewhat  higher  temperature  (at  about  215°  C.  =419° 
F.,  forming  a brown  liquid,  TJ.  S.  P .),  then  acquire  a handsome  red  color,  and  finally  burn, 
giving  olf  a peculiar  empyreumatic  odor  and  leaving  no  residue.  It  is  apt  to  form  super- 
saturated solutions  with  water,  of  which  it  requires  13.50 
parts  to  dissolve  it  at  the  boiling  temperature;  its  solu- 
bility in  cold  water  has  been  variously  determined:  1 part 
of  the  salt  was  found  to  be  soluble  in  66  parts  of  water  at 
15°  C.  {V.  /S'.),  in  54  parts  (Kerner),  in  65.5  parts  (Hesse), 
and  in  75  parts  (Schwabe)  at  13°  C.  (55.4°  F.)  ; these 
solutions  have  a neutral,  or  frequently  a slight  alkaline, 
reaction.  The  salt  is  very  readily  soluble  in  dilute  acids, 
requires  3.25  of  boiling  and  10  parts  of  cold  alcohol  for 
solution,  dissolves  in  78  parts  of  chloroform,  readily  in 
dilute  acids,  and  is  insoluble  in  ether,  benzin,  and  benzene. 

Its  solutions  have  a very  bitter  taste  and  are  destitute  of 
fluorescence.  They  yield  a white  precipitate  with  barium 
chloride  (sulphate),  are  insoluble  in  dilute  hydrochloric 
acid,  and  are  precipitated  by  the  reagents  mentioned  above, 
the  precipitate  by  ammonia  being  so  sparingly  soluble  in 
an  excess  that  this  reagent  may  be  employed  for  the  quan- 
titative determination  of  the  alkaloid.  When  a drop  of  the  saturated  aqueous  solution 
of  the  salt  is  mixed  with  a drop  of  solution  of  potassium  sulphocyanate,  crystals  will  be 
formed  which  under  the  microscope  will  appear  long,  radiating,  and  considerably  branched, 
resembling  antlers  or  equisetum. 

Composition. — The  formula  as  given  above  is  that  of  Laurent  (1848),  which  has 
been  adopted  by  most  writers  since  Skraup’s  investigations  (1877,  1879)  ; it  requires 
82.8  per  cent,  of  cinchonine.  Skraup  found  that  by  repeated  fractional  precipitation  the 
commercial  salt  will  yield  cinchotine,  Ci9H24N20,  an  alkaloid  very  similar  to  cinchonine, 
and  identical  with  Caventou’s  and  Willm’s  (1869)  hydrocinchonine.  It  is  more  freely 
soluble  in  alcohol  than  cinchonine,  yields  a sulphate  crystallizing  in  sharp  needles,  and  is 
not  affected  by  a cold  solution  of  potassium  permanganate. 

Tests. — “A  solution  of  the  salt  (1  in  1000)  in  diluted  sulphuric  acid  should  not 
show  more  than  a faint  blue  fluorescence  (limit  of  sulphate  of  quinine  or  of  quinidine). 
If  1 Gm.  be  dried  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  until  it  ceases  to  lose  weight,  the  residue,  cooled 
in  a desiccator,  should  weigh  not  less  than  0.95  Gm.  If  1 part  of  the  salt,  reduced  to 
powder,  is  macerated,  with  frequent  agitation,  with  80  parts  of  chloroform  at  ordinary 
temperature,  it  should  wholly,  or  almost  wholly,  dissolve  (limit  of  sulphate  of  quinine  or 
cinchonidine).  The  salt  should  not  impart  more  than  a faintly  yellowish  tinge  to  con- 
centrated sulphuric  acid  (limit  of  readily  carbonizable  organic  impurities).” — U.  S. 

Other  Salts  of  Cinchonine. — Acid  cinchonine  sulphate — C19IT22N20.H2S04.3II20,  mol. 
weight  445.15 — obtained  by  dissolving  the  official  sulphate  in  dilute  sulphuric  acid  and  crystalli- 
zing, forms  octahedral  crystals,  which  become  opaque  in  dry  air,  and  dissolve  in  about  half  their 
weight  of  water  and  in  90  parts  of  alcohol.  They  are  insoluble  in  ether,  and  contain  59.2  per 
cent,  of  cinchonine. 

Cinchonine  hydrochloride — G\9Ii22N20.TIC1.2H20,  mol.  weight  365.7 — made  by  treating 
an  excess  of  cinchonine  with  dilute  hydrochloric  acid,  crystallizes  in  needles  closely  resembling 
sulphate  of  quinine,  dissolves  in  24  parts  of  water  at  10°  C (50°  F.),  in  3.2  parts  of  boiling  water, 
32. 


Fig.  74. 


Cinchonine  sulphate  with  KSCy 
microscopic  crystals. 


498 


CINNAMOMUM. 


in  22.2  parts  of  chloroform,  in  1.3  parts  of  80  per  cent,  alcohol,  and  in  273  parts  of  ether  spec, 
grav.  .730,  at  15°  C.  The  salt  melts  above  130°  C.  (266°  F.).  It  has  been  occasionally  used  for 
adulterating,  or  fraudulently  sold  for,  quinine  sulphate,  from  which  it  is  readily  distinguished 
by  the  absence  of  fluorescence  of  its  acidulated  solution,  by  the  white  precipitate  occasioned  with 
silver  nitrate,  and  by  the  sparing  solubility  in  ether  of  the  white  precipitate  with  ammonia.  It 
contains  80.24  per  cent,  of  cinchonine. 

Action  and  Uses- — Sulphate  of  cinchonine  is  more  poisonous  to  frogs  and  dogs 
than  sulphate  of  quinine  The  former  in  full  doses  does  not  so  speedily  produce  buzzing 
in  the  ears  and  disordered  vision,  but,  on  the  other  hand,  it  is  more  apt  to  occasion  a 
peculiar  pain  and  sense  of  oppression  in  the  frontal  region  of  the  head.  It  is  also  prone 
to  excite  prsecordial  pain,  jerking  of  the  tendons,  muscular  exhaustion,  and  faintness 
when  freely  used.  Laborde,  indeed,  denies  to  this  alkaloid  and  to  cinchonidine  an 
equality  with  quinine,  alleging  that  they  belong  to  the  class  of  convulsing  poisons 
( Archives  gen.,  Mar.  1880,  p.  368). 

Its  therapeutical  application  is  generally  regarded  as  identical  in  nature  with  that  of 
quinine,  at  least  in  the  treatment  of  periodical  fevers.  But  the  certainty  of  its  curative 
effects  is  by  no  means  so  well  established.  It  has  the  advantage  over  quinine  of  being 
less  bitter  and  much  more  soluble  in  water,  as  well  as  cheaper  ; but  it  has  the  dis- 
advantage of  being  less  reliable.  The  dose  of  sulphate  of  cinchonine  is  variously  stated 
to  be  from  one-third  to  twice  as  large  as  that  of  quinine. 

CINNAMOMUM,  U.  S.,  Br I\  G.,  F.  ^.-Cinnamon. 

Candle,  Fr. ; Zimmt,  G. ; Canella,  It.,  Sp. 

The  bark  of  several  species  of  Cinnamomum. 

Nat.  Ord. — Laurineae. 

Official  Kinds. — 1.  Cinnamomum  Cassia,  U.  S. ; Cortex  Cinnamomi,  P.  G. ; 
Cortex  cinnamomi  chinensis,  Cortex  cinnamomi  cassia,  Cinnamomum  chinense,  Cassia 
cinnamomea. — Cassia  cinnamon,  Chinese  cinnamon,  Cassia  bark,  Cassia  lignea,  E. ; 
Canelle  de  Chine,  Fr. ; Zimmtkassie,  Chinesischer  (Gemeiner)  Zimmt,  G. ; Canella,  It., 
% 

The  bark  of  the  shoots  of  one  or  more  species  of  Cinnamomum,  grown  in  China  (Chi- 
nese cinnamon). 

2.  Cinnamomum  saigonicum,  U.  S. ; Cortex  cinnamomi  saigonici. — Saigon  cinnamon, 
E.  ; Canelle  de  Saigon,  Fr. ; Saigonzimmt,  G. 

The  bark  of  an  undetermined  species  of  Cinnamomum. 

3.  Cinnamomum  zeylanicum,  U.  B. ; Cinnamomi  cortex,  Br.  ; Cortex  cinnamomi  zey- 
lanici,  Cinnamomum  acutum,  s.  verum. — Ceylon  cinnamon,  Cinnamon-bark,  E. ; Canelle 
de  Ceylon,  Fr. ; Zeylonzimmt,  G. ; Canella  del  Ceylon,  It. 

The  inner  bark  of  the  shoots  of  Cinnamomum  zeylanicum,  Breyne , s.  Laurus  Cinna- 
momum, Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  224. 

Origin. — The  tree  mentioned  above  is  variable  in  size,  but  usually  of  small  stature, 
and  is  met  with  in  forest  districts  of  Ceylon,  reaching  an  elevation  of  920  M.  (3000  feet). 
It  has  opposite  coriaceous  three-  to  five-nerved  leaves,  w'hich  are  bright-green  and  glossy 
above  and  glaucous  beneath ; the  small  flowers  are  in  terminal  panicles,  producing  a 
somewhat  fleshy  ovoid  fruit,  which  at  the  base  is  surrounded  by  the  enlarged  perianth. 
Not  less  than  seven  or  eight  well-marked  varieties  are  distinguished,  some  of  which  are 
regarded  by  some  botanists  as  distinct  species. 

Cinnamon  was  known  and  highly  esteemed  as  a spice  in  the  most  remote  times  of  his- 
tory, but  the  kind  first  used  appears  to  have  been  that  derived  from  China,  while  Ceylon 
cinnamon  is  first  mentioned  about  the  year  1275.  Cinn.  zeylanicum  is  now  cultivated  in 
many  tropical  countries,  without,  however,  producing  a bark  equal  in  aroma  to  that 
obtained  in  Ceylon. 

Collection. — Ceylon  cinnamon,  the  cultivation  "of  which  is  gradually  declining 
through  the  extension  of  coffee-culture,  is  produced  in  the  south-western  part  of  that 
island  in  the  vicinity  of  Colombo,  where  the  plants  are  pruned  so  as  to  cause  them  to 
form  stools,  from  which  four  or  five  shoots  are  raised  for  eighteen  months  or  two  years, 
until  the  bark  begins  to  turn  brown  by  the  production  of  a corky  layer.  The  shoots, 
which  are  now  about  2.4  M.  (8  feet)  high  and  5 Cm.  (2  inche’s)  or  less  thick,  are  cut  off 
and  deprived  of  their  leaves  and  thin  portions,  which  are  sold  as  cinnamon  chips.  The 
bark  is  cut  transversely,  either  obliquely  or  in  a straight  line,  at  distances  of  about  a 
foot,  after  which  two  or  more  longitudinal  incisions  are  made  and  the  strips  of  bark 


CINNA  MOMUM. 


499 


removed  by  inserting  beneath  it  the  peeling-knife  called  mama.  The  pieces  are  put  one 
within  the  other,  and  the  sticks  thus  formed  tied  together  into  bundles.  After  about 
twenty-four  hours  the  external  layers  of  the  bark  are  carefully  removed  by  placing  each 
piece  upon  a suitable  stick  of  wood  and  scraping  with  a knife.  The  small  quills  are  then 
placed  in  the  larger  ones  in  such  a manner  as  to  form  congeries  of  quills  about  1 M. 
(40  inches)  long.  These  sticks  are  kept  one  day  in  the  shade,  then  dried  in  the  sun,  and 
finally  made  into  bundles  of  about  30  pounds  each.  Cinnamon  produced  in  Senegal, 
Brazil,  and  the  West  Indies  is  inferior  in  quality  ; that  from  Tellichery  and  Java  comes 
nearest  to  Ceylon  cinnamon. 

The  trees  yielding  Cassia  cinnamon  are  a number  of  species  of  Cinnamomum  cultivated 
in  India  and  also  South-eastern  China.  Among  the  former  can  be  named  Cinnamomum 
Tamala,  Mes , and  C.  iners  and  nitidum,  considered  by  some  botanists  to  be  only  coarse 
forms  of  C.  zevlanicum  which  had  been  transplanted  from  Ceylon  to  India.  The  bark 
yielded  by  these  trees  is  the  Indian  cassia.  The  true  Chinese  cassia-bark  is  cultivated 
in  Kwangsi  and  Kwangtung,  the  south-eastern  provinces  of  China,  and  is  obtained  from 
C.  Cassia,  Blume , according  to  Charles  Ford  {Jour.  Linn.  Society , Dec.  1882).  This  tree 
is  cultivated  in  the  Chinese  cinnamon  plantations  along  with  Machilus  velutina,  Champ., 
Laurineae,  the  bark  of  which  is  used  for  preparing  a glutinous  extract.  The  facts  about 
Chinese  cassia  were  ascertained  through  personal  observation  by  Charles  Ford,  who 
gives  the  following  description  of  the  collection  of  cinnamon  : “ When  the  trees  are  about 
six  years  old  the  first  cut  of  bark  is  obtained.  The  season  for  barking  commences  in 
March  and  continues  until  the  end  of  May,  after  which  the  natives  say  the  bark  loses  its 
aroma,  and  is  therefore  not  removed  from  the  trees.  The  branches,  which  are  about 
an  inch  thick,  being  cut  to  within  a few  inches  of  the  ground,  are  carried  to  houses  or 
sheds  in  the  vicinity  of  the  plantations.  All  the  small  twigs  and  leaves  being  cleared 
off,  a large-bladed  knife,  with  the  cutting  edge  something  like  the  end  of  a budding- 
knife,  is  used  to  make  two  longitudinal  slits  and  three  or  four  incisions,  at  40  Cm.  (16 
inches)  apart,  round  the  circumference  through  the  bark ; the  bark  is  then  loosened  by 
passing  underneath  it  a kind  of  slightly-curved  horn  knife  with  the  two  edges  slightly 
sharpened.  Pieces  of  bark  40  Cm.  (16  inches)  long  and  half  the  circumference  are  thus 
obtained.  The  bark,  after  its  removal  and  while  it  is  still  moist  with  sap,  is  then 
laid  with  the  concave  side  downward,  and  a small  plane  passed  over  it  and  the  epidermis 
removed.  After  this  operation  the  bark  is  left  to  dry  for  about  twenty-four  hours,  and 
then  tied  up  in  bundles  about  45  Cm.  (18  inches)  in  diameter,  and  sent  into  the  mer- 
chants’ houses  in  the  market-towns.” 

Cassia  cinnamon  must  not  be  confounded  with  the  true  Chinese  cinnamon,  which  is  not 
cultivated  in  China,  but  grows  wild  in  Annam.  It  never  reaches  our  commerce,  but  is 
entirely  exported  to  China  on  account  of  the  high  price  there  paid  for  it.  The  bark  is 
collected  from  old  trees,  which  are  entirely  denuded,  and  consequently  die. 

Java  and  Sumatra  also  yield  a Cassia-bark,  which  has  been  ascribed  to  C.  Cassia, 
Blume , and  C.  Burmanni,  Blume.  C.  Cassia  is  cultivated  in  Java ; indeed,  the  original 
specimen  which  Blume  describes  was  obtained  from  Java,  and  had  been  introduced  there 
from  China,  as  he  also  mentions. 

A kind  of  Chinese  or  Saigon  cinnamon  is  now  official  under  the  name  of  Cinna- 
momum Saigonicum.  The  trees  yielding  the  bark  have  not  been  determined.  This 
variety  appeared  in  our  commerce  early  in  the  seventies,  and  since  then  has  been  found 
in  increasing  quantities. 

The  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia  recognizes  three  varieties  of  cinnamon — Cassia,  Ceylon,  and 
Saigon;  the  British  Pharmacopoeia  recognizes  only  the  Ceylon;  and  the  German  Phar- 
macopoeia the  Cassia  cinnamon. 

The  importation  into  the  United  States  of  the  Ceylon  cinnamon  has  decreased  from 
20,600  pounds  in  1877  to  about  5000  to  10,000  annually,  while  little  over  1,000,000 
pounds  of  Chinese  cinnamon  were  imported  in  1877,  against  nearly  2,500,000  pounds  in 
1880.  J ^ 

Description— Cassia  cinnamon,  or  cassia-bark,  comes  loose  or  packed  in  bundles 
with  bands  of  bamboo.  The  pieces  vary  considerably  in  length,  and  are  either  curved, 
double  quilled,  or  in  quills  of  6 to  25  Mm.  (}  to  1 inch)  in  diameter.  The  bark  is  1 Mm. 
0?V  inch)  or  more  thick,  and  has  a smooth  or  finely-wrinkled  reddish-brown  outer  surface, 
marked  with  some  dark  leaf-scars,  occasionally  with  lighter-colored  lines,  and  very 
generally  covered  with  larger  or  smaller  irregular  patches  of  cork.  It  breaks  with  a 
short,  nearly  smooth  fracture,  and  when  of  good  quality  has  a strong  though  less  delicate 
cinnamon  odor  and  taste. 


500 


CINNAMOMUM. 


Ceylon  cinnamon  is  in  sticks  about  1 M.  (40  inches)  long  and  nearly  12  Mm. 
inch)  thick,  formed  of  eight  or  ten  layers  of  very  thin  bark,  which  are  together 
spirally  rolled  up  from  both  edges.  The  bark  itself  has  the  thickness  of  stout 
writing-paper,  is  brittle  and  splintery,  and  has  the  external  surface  of  a dull  light 
yellowish-brown,  smooth,  marked  with  faint  longitudinal  wavy  lines  of  bast-bundles,  and 
with  a few  scars  or  holes  left  by  the  leaf-stalks  or  branches.  The  inner  surface  is 
smooth,  scarcely  striate,  and  of  a somewhat  darker  brown.  The  odor  is  fragrant,  pecu- 
liar; the  taste  sweetish,  aromatic,  and  pungent.  Inferior  kinds  of  cinnamon  are  usually 
somewhat  thicker,  darker  in  color,  of  less  agreeable  fragrance,  and  occasionally  of  a 
bitterish  taste.  Cayenne  cinnamon  has  a reddish  tinge  and  is  quite  mucilaginous.  Java 
cinnamon  is  often  very  similar  to  Ceylon  cinnamon  in  appearance,  though  hardly  equal  to 
it  in  flavor ; sometimes  it  is  of  a darker  color,  resembling  Chinese  cinnamon,  but  thinner 
4nd  of  better  flavor. 

Saigon  cinnamon  comes  in  the  form  of  unscraped  quills  about  15  Cm.  (6  inches)  long 
and  10  to  15  Mm.  (-J  to  § inch)  in  diameter.  The  bark  is  2 to  3 Mm.  (TL  to  -J-  inch)  in 
thickness,  having  a gray  or  grayish-brown  outer  surface,  which  has  whitish  patches  and 
more  or  less  rough  from  numerous  warts  and  some  transverse  ridges  and  fine  longitudinal 
wrinkles.  The  inner  surface  is  cinnamon-brown  or  dark-brown  in  color,  is  granular,  and 
slightly  striate.  The  bark  breaks  with  a short  granular  fracture,  which  is  cinnamon- 
colored  in  the  outer  layer,  and  shows  near  the  cork  an  almost  uninterrupted  line  of 
numerous  whitish  striae.  The  bark  possesses  a sweet,  warmly  aromatic,  and  somewhat 
astringent  taste,  a fragrant  odor,  and  yields  a darker-colored  powder  than  Cassia  cin- 
namon. 

Under  the  microscope  Ceylon  cinnamon  is  seen  to  consist  of  the  bast-layer  only,  the 

outer  surface  being  formed  by  a continuous  circle 
Fig.  75.  of  stone-cells  intermixed  with  bundles  of  bast- 

fibres  ; the  narrow  medullary  rays  separate  the 
broad  bast-wedges,  consisting  of  regularly-arranged 
small  groups  or  single  bast-fibres  and  of  bast-paren- 
chyma, containing  starch-granules  and  mucilage  and 
scattered  oil-cells.  Cassia  cinnamon,  aside  from 
the  cork,  consists  of  primary  bark  and  of  the  bast- 
layer,  in  which  the  bast-fibres,  groups  of  stone- 
cells,  and  oil-cells  are  scattered,  and  which  con- 
tains more  mucilage  and  starch  than  the  preceding 
kind.  Saigon  cinnamon  resembles  the  Cassia  cin- 
namon in  that  the  commercial  article  consists  of 
the  cork,  primary  bark,  and  bast-layer.  In  the 
thinner  barks  there  is  a great  similarity  be- 
tween it  and  Ceylon  cinnamon,  with  this  exception, 
that  the  primary  bark,  which  contains  a large 
number  of  oil-cells,  is  present.  The  older  and 
thicker  barks  resemble  in  structure  the  Cassia 
cinnamon. 

The  term  cassia  lignea  is  sometimes  applied  indis- 
criminately to  Chinese  cinnamon  or  it  is  used  only 
for  the  inferior  varieties.  Some  writers  have 
restricted  it  to  a thicker  bark,  of  a slight  cinnamon 
odor  and  a mucilaginous,  faint  cinnamon  taste. 
The  origin  of  these  barks  is  not  positively  known. 

Constituents. — The  two  kinds  of  cinnamon 
agree  in  the  main  in  their  chemical  constituents, 
the  most  important  of  which  is  volatile  oil.  (See 
Oleum  Cinnamomi.)  They  also  contain  a con- 
siderable amount  of  tannin,  some  sugar,  mannit, 
starch,  and  mucilage.  Fliickiger  and  Hanbury 
noticed  that  the  infusion  made  with  cold  water  becomes  turbid  on  the  addition  of  iodine 
or  potassium  iodide,  and  the  decoction  of  both  cinnamons  discharges  the  color  of  a 
considerable  quantity  of  iodine  before  it  permanently  assumes  the  blue  color  of  iodide 
of  starch.  The  body  producing  this  reaction  with  iodine  appears  to  be  insoluble  in 
alcohol  and  ether,  but  its  nature  has  not  been  ascertained.  A strong  tincture  of  cinna- 
mon gradually  becomes  gelatinous  and  loses  its  astringent  taste. 


CLEMATIS. 


501 


Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Syrupus  cinnamomi,  P.  G.  Macerate  for  two  days 
cinnamon  10  parts,  cinnamon-water  50  parts,  and  dissolve  in  40  parts  of  the  filtered 
infusion  60  parts  of  sugar. — P.  G. 

Tinctura  aromatica,  P.  G.  Macerate  Cassia  cinnamon  5 parts,  ginger  2 parts,  car- 
damom, cloves,  and  galanga,  each  1 part,  in  alcohol,  sp.  grav.  .893,  50  parts. — P.  G. 

Allied  Products. — Cassia-buds,  Flores  cassice , s.  Clavelli  cinnamomi , are  the  small,  pedicel- 
late, unripe  fruits  of  one  or  more  species  of  Cinnamomum  ; they  bear  some  resemblance  to 
cloves,  but  are  smaller,  and  consist  of  the  thick  perianth,  the  six  small  lobes  of  which  are  folded 
over  the  depressed  ovary.  They  have  a cinnamon-like  but  less  agreeable  odor  and  taste,  and 
contain  a volatile  oil  and  tannin.  The  average  importation  of  cassia-buds  into  the  United 
States  is  about  40,000  pounds  annually. 

The  following  barks,  which  resemble  cinnamon  in  some  respects,  are  similarly  employed  in 
their  native  countries,  and  are  occasionally  met  with  in  commerce : 

Culilawan-bark  is  obtained  from  Cinn.  Culilawan,  Fees,  indigenous  to  the  Moluccas.  It  is 
in  flat  or  curved  pieces,  2.5  to  6 Mm.  (y1^  to  \ inch)  thick,  grayish  or  brownish  externally,  dark 
cinnamon-brown  internally,  with  the  fracture  corky  and  short  fibrous.  The  odor  resembles  cin- 
namon with  a mixture  of  cloves  and  sassafras ; taste  mucilaginous  and  aromatic. 

Cassia  caryophyllata,  s.  Cortex  caryophyllatus , the  clove-bark  (Nelkenzimmt,  G.),  from 
Dicypellium  caryophyllatum,  Nees , of  Brazil.  It  usually  comes  in  quills  2 to  4 Cm.  (f  to 
inches)  thick,  and  about  60  Cm.  (2  feet)  long,  which  are  made  up  of  from  six  to  ten  pieces  of 
bark  rolled  up  together.  The  bark  is  about  1.5  Mm.  (y\  inch)  thick,  smooth  or  slightly  wrin- 
kled, chestnut-brown,  often  with  a bluish  tinge,  fracture  short,  showing  a whitish  line  near  the 
outer  margin. ; odor  clove-like  ; taste  mucilaginous,  resembling  cinnamon. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  oil  of  cinnamon,  like  that  of  other  aromatics,  first  stimu- 
lates, and  then  exhausts  and  depresses,  the  nervous  system.  Locally,  it  is  a rubefacient 
and  stimulant.  The  water  and  the  oil  of  cinnamon  are  used  to  impart  an  agreeable 
flavor  to  medicines,  and  the  former  is  associated  with  astringents  in  the  treatment  of 
diarrhoea.  Cinnamon  was  anciently  believed  to  stimulate  the  uterus,  and  recently  has 
been  used  in  conjunction  with  more  powerful  medicines,  such  as  borax,  ergot,  cotton 
root,  etc.,  to  promote  parturition  and  to  check  uterine  haemorrhage  after  labor  and  during 
menstruation  or  depending  upon  disease  of  the  womb.  Powdered  cinnamon  may  be  pre- 
scribed in  doses  of  from  Gm.  0.60-2.00  (gr.  x-xxx).  An  infusion  may  be  made  with 
Gm.  4.0  (^j)  of  the  bruised  bark  to  half  a pint  of  boiling  water,  and  administered  in 
doses  of  a tablespoonful  or  two  every  hour. 

CLEMATIS. — Virgin’s  Bower. 

Clematite , Fr. ; Waldrebe , G. ; Barbas  de  chivo , Sp. 

The  herb  of  different  species  of  Clematis. 

Nat.  Ord. — Ranunculaceae,  Clematidese. 

Description. — The  genus  consists  of  perennial  herbs  or  woody  vines  climbing  by 
the  aid  of  the  bending  petioles  of  their  opposite  pinnate  leaves.  The  flowers  have  four 
to  six  colored  sepals,  minute  or  no  petals,  numerous  stamens,  and  many  akenes,  which  are 
prolonged  into  a feathery  or  rarely  naked  tail,  consisting  of  the  permanent  style.  The 
following  species  have  been  used : 

Clem,  erecta,  Linne , indigenous  to  Europe.  The  leaflets  are  five  to  nine  in  number, 
oblong,  narrowed  below  or  usually  cordate  at  the  base,  acute,  entire,  pale-green  beneath, 
three-  to  five-nerved.  The  white  flowers  are  in  cymose  clusters.  It  was  formerly  known 
as  Herba  flammulse  Jovis. 

Clem.  Yitalba,  Linne , indigenous  to  Europe.  The  leaflets  are  about  five  in  number, 
ovate,  heart-shaped  at  the  base,  acute,  coarsely  serrate  or  entire,  three-  to  five-nerved, 
pubescent  when  young.  The  white  flowers  are  in  cymose  clusters  and  have  the  sepals 
clothed  with  felt-like  hairs. 

Clem.  Flammula,  Linne , indigenous  to  Southern  Europe.  The  leaves  are  twice 
pinnate,  the  leaflets  small,  varying  between  lanceolate  and  oblong,  entire,  but  two-  or 

three-lobed. 

Clem,  virginiana,  Linne,  common  in  Canada  and  the  United  States.  Leaflets  three,  ovate, 
rounded  or  heart-shaped  at  base,  lobed  and  cut-dentate,  with  mucronate  teeth.  Flowers 
white,  iA  cymose  panicles. 

Clem  Yiorna,  Linne — Leather  flower — indigenous  to  the  Southern  States.  Leaflets 
three  to  seven,  ovate,  acute,  smooth.  Flowers  single,  nodding,  with  dark-purple  leathery 

sepals. 


502 


COCA. 


Clem,  cylindrica,  Sims,  resembles  the  preceding,  but  has  single  bell-shaped,  bluish-pur- 
ple flowers,  with  the  sepals  dilated  and  often  crisped  above. 

Constituents. — The  above  species  possess  in  the  fresh  state  a very  acrid  taste,  which 
is  gradually  lost.  Braconnot  observed  that  the  acrid  principle  may  be  distilled  with  water 
and  is  soluble  in  fixed  oils. 

Action  and  Uses. — All  the  numerous  species  of  clematis  possess  essentially  the 
same  properties,  which  are  those  of  an  acrid  irritant.  The  juice  or  the  bruised  plant 
applied  to  the  skin  is  apt  to  cause  blisters,  and  even  ulcers,  and  its  emanations  when  it  is 
crushed  readily  make  the  eyes  water  and  inflame  them.  In  Europe  beggars  avail  them- 
selves of  these  properties  to  produce  ulcers  upon  their  limbs  for  the  purpose  of  exciting 
compassion.  Hence,  clematis  is  known  as  beggar’s  weed  (Vherbe  a gueux).  These  irri- 
tant properties  are  very  feeble  in  the  dried  plant.  The  American  appear  to  be  less  acrid 
than  the  European  species. 

An  infusion  of  the  flowers  and  leaves  of  clematis  has  been  used  internally  in  chronic 
rheumatism , syphilis,  scrofula , dropsy,  and  quartan  ague.  An  infusion  of  the  fresh  buds 
of  C.  vitalba,  Gm.  1.00-3.00,  in  water  Gm.  200-250  (gr.  xv  to  gr.  xlv  in  water  f^vj-viij), 
with  the  addition  of  anise  or  other  carminative,  when  taken  in  three  doses  at  intervals  of 
an  hour,  is  said  to  act  as  an  efficient  hydragogue  cathartic.  The  dried  leaves  in  weak 
infusion  have  been  used  with  advantage  as  a diuretic  in  some  cases  of  dropsy  following 
intermittent  fever.  In  Europe  the  peasantry  employ  the  fresh  leaves  as  vesicants,  and 
physicians  have  applied  them  in  the  same  manner  to  relieve  local  pains,  and  also  in 
chronic  rheumatism , gout,  and  paralysis.  Even  in  ancient  times  this  plant  was  used  in 
the  substitutive  treatment  of  chronic  skin  diseases , and  much  more  recently  an  infusion 
of  it  in  oil  was  employed  to  cure  the  itch.  The  affected  parts,  it  is  said,  having  been 
subjected  to  several  frictions,  became  violently  inflamed,  but  with  the  subsidence  of  the 
inflammation  the  itch  was  cured. 


COCA,  U.  S.,  Br.,  It.— Coca. 

Erythroxylon,  U.  S.  P.  1880. — Coca-leaves,  E.  ; Feuilles  de  coca , Fr. ; Cocablatter,  G. 

The  leaves  of  Erythroxylon  Coca,  Lamarck.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  40. 

Nat.  Ord. — Linese. 

Origin. — Coca  is  a small  shrub  1.2-1. 8 M.  (4  to  6 feet)  high,  with  numerous  spread- 
ing purplish-brown  branches.  It  has  small,  yellowish,  five-petalous  flowers  in  axillary 
clusters  of  three  or  four,  ten  hypogynous  stamens,  and  an  oblong,  scarlet-red,  pointed, 
and  smooth  drupaceous  fruit  containing  a single  albuminous  seed.  It  is  indigenous  to 
the  mountains  of  Peru  and  Bolivia,  and  is  cultivated  in  both  these  countries  on  the 
eastern  slope  of  the  Andes  in  damp  warm  valleys  at  an  altitude  of  1524  or  1829  M. 
(5000  or  6000  feet) ; also  in  some  parts  of  Colombia,  Brazil,  and  the  Argentine  Bepublic. 
The  leaves  of  the  plant  cultivated  in  Bolivia,  although  smaller,  are  nevertheless  more 
highly  esteemed  than  the  Peruvian  variety.  The  plants  are  partly  stripped  of  leaves 
three  times  annually  after  the  third  year.  After  carefully  drying  in  the  sun  to  preserve 
their  green  color,  the  leaves  are  packed  in  cestos  weighing  30  pounds ; three  of  these  are 
tied  together,  forming  a tarnbor,  a load  for  the  beast  of  burden. 
About  40,000,000  pounds  are  annually  produced. 

Coca-leaves  cultivated  in  Java  and  India  are  considered  inferior 
to  those  of  South  America,  and  are  stated  to  be  derived  from  E. 
Coca  var.  Spruceanum,  Burck. 

Description. — The  leaves  are  alternate  2 to  5 or  7 Cm. 
(f  to  2 or  2f  inches)  long,  25  to  37  Mm.  (1  to  1?  inches)  broad, 
ovate,  lanceolate  or  obovate-oblong,  rather  obtuse,  and  frequently 
emarginate,  somewhat  narrowed  into  the  short  petiole,  entire  on 
the  margin,  rather  thin,  smooth,  the  lower  surface  pale  bluish- 
green,  reticulate  on  both  sides,  with  a prominent  midrib,  on  each 
side  of  which  is  a curved  line  running  from  the  base  to  the  apex, 
Bolivian  coca  Reaves,  natural  wj1jc|1  jg  due  to  strands  of  collenchyme  cells.  The  leaves  have 

a slight  but  agreeable  odor,  similar  to  that  of  tea,  and  a some- 
what astringent,  bitter,  and  aromatic  taste. 

There  are  in  commerce  two  kinds  of  South  American  coca-leaves,  known  as  the 
Iluanuco  and  the  Truxillo  varieties.  The  latter  is  light-green,  thin,  fragile,  and  brittle, 
while  the  former  is  darker  in  color,  thicker,  and  of  a leathery  texture.  They  differ 
also  in  the  shape  of  the  fibro-vascular  bundles,  those  of  the  Huanuco  variety  being, 


Fig.  76. 


COCA. 


503 


spread  out  and  flat,  while  those  of  the  other  variety  are  more  circular  in  arrangement. 
The  Truxillo  variety  is  identical  with  E.  Coca  v.  Spruceanum,  Burch. 

Constituents. — Wackenroder  (1853)  showed  the  presence  in  coca-leaves  of  a 
peculiar  tannin,  which  reacts  with  a green  color  upon  iron  salts,  and  has  since  been  called 
coca-tannic  acid.  Gaedeke  (1855)  isolated  a crystalline  alkaloid,  which  was  provisionally 
named  erythroxyline , and  further  examined  by  A.  Niemann  (1860),  and  W.  Lossen 
(1865),  the  name  being  changed  to  cocaine.  Cocaine,  C17H21N04,  when  boiled  with 
hydrochloric  acid  is  split  into  methylic  alcohol,  CH40,  benzoic  acid,  C7H602,  and  ecgo- 
nine,  C9Hi5N03.  Gin n amyl-coca ine,  C19H23N04,  was  isolated  by  Geisel : it  forms  needle- 
shaped  crystals  which  fuse  at  121°  C.,  and  on  boiling  with  hydrochloric  acid  yields 
methyl  alcohol,  ecgonine,  and  cinnamic  acid  (sometimes  also  isocinnamic  acid).  Truxil 
cocaine  ( truxilline  or  cocamine , Hesse)  yields,  on  saponification  with  hydrochloric  acid, 
truxillic  acid,  C9H802,  in  several  modifications,  which  are  possibly  polymeric  with  cin- 
namic acid.  From  Java  coca-leaves  benzoyl-pseudo-tropeine,  C15H19N02,  was  obtained 
by  Liebermann  ; it  melts  at  49°  C.,  and  is  easily  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  chloroform, 
benzene,  and  benzin ; when  boiled  with  hydrochloric  acid  it  yields  .benzoic  acid  and 
pseudo-tropine,  C8H15NO,  deliquescent  rhombic  crystals,  which  are  sparingly  soluble  in 
ether  and  freely  in  chloroform.  Hygrine , obtained  by  Maclagan  and  named  by  Lossen, 
is  volatile,  oily,  and  readily  soluble  in  water,  alcohol,  and  ether ; according  to  Lieber- 
mann, it  is  a mixture  from  which  can  be  separated  by  distillation  C8H15NO  and  C14H.24NO. 
Hesse,  however,  claims  that  this  is  not  a constituent  of  coca,  but  is  obtained  from  the 
solvent  used  in  the  isolation  of  the  alkaloids. 

History. — Coca  was  used  by  the  aborigines  of  South  America  long  before  their  con- 
quest by  the  Spaniards.  They  regarded  it  as  a divine  gift,  employed  it  in  religious  cere- 
monies, and  spoke  of  it  as  “ that  heavenly  plant  which  satisfies  the  hungry,  strengthens 
the  weak,  and  makes  men  forget  their  misfortunes.”  These  reasons  were  sufficient  to 
render  it  abominable  in  the  sight  of  the  fanatical  invaders,  who  forbade  its  use  and  cul- 
ture. But  when  they  discovered  that  it  enabled  the  conquered  people  to  perform  the 
work  of  their  taskmasters,  they  winked  at  its  diabolical  origin  and  virtues. 

Action  and  Uses. — Owing  to  the  small  quantity  of  coca,  and  that  often  impaired 
in  activity,  which  is  to  be  procured  in  countries  where  physiological  research  is  practised, 
the  conclusions  in  regard  to  its  action  are  somewhat  deficient  in  fulness  and  precision. 
Its  principal  effects  are  manifested  in  enabling  those  who  use  it  to  remain  for  a long  time 
without  food,  to  endure  unusual  fatigue,  and  to  preserve  a cheerful  temper.  Some  of 
the  first  historians  of  its  use,  as  Yon  Bibra,  state  that  it  suspends  the  appetite  for  food 
for  some  hours,  and  at  the  same  time  greatly  increases  the  muscular  strength  and  endur- 
ance. Schroff  found  that  it  quickened  the  pulse  and  occasioned  an  agreeable  sense  of 
lightness  and  activity  of  mind  and  body,  followed  by  some  lassitude  and  an  inclination  to 
sleep.  When  the  proper  quantity  has  been  chewed  the  laborer  goes  cheerfully  to  his 
work  and  gives  no  heed  to  meal-times  while  the  influence  lasts.  By  repeated  doses  ab- 
stinence from  food  can  be  maintained  for  three  or  four  days.  In  some  persons  it  pro- 
duces an  exhilarating  effect.  The  celebrated  traveler  Tschudi  and  more  recent  observers 
found  that  when  taken  in  infusion  it  conferred  a singular  immunity  from  suffering,  and 
prevented  the  haemorrhages  which  are  apt  to  occur  in  the  elevated  passes  of  the  Andes, 
some  of  which  are  17,000  feet  high.  Christison,  who  tested  its  action  among  the  High- 
lands of  Scotland,  observed  that  it  entirely  prevented  the  fatigue  which  follows  severe 
pedestrian  exercise,  and  suspended  hunger  and  thirst  during  its  action.  It  had  no  effect 
upon  the  mental  faculties  beyond  liberating  them  from  the  dulness  and  drowsiness  which 
fatigue  occasions.  The  most  recent  testimony  quite  confirms  these  statements. 

So  far  as  experiments  have  been  undertaken,  they  do  not  agree  in  their  physiological 
results.  Ott  found  that  during  the  use  of  coca  for  five  days  the  solid  elements  of  the 
urine  diminished,  while  the  weight  of  the  body  slightly  increased.  During  the  experi- 
ment the  urine  contained  oxalate  of  lime.  Christison  states  that  it  increased  the  saliva 
and  probably  lessened  the  secretion  of  the  urinary  solids.  Gazeau,  on  the  other  hand, 
observed  that  it  augmented  the  excretion  of  urea  and  lessened  the  weight.  According 
to  him,  its  power  consists  in  its  sustained  excitation  of  the  vital  functions,  along  with  an 
anaesthetic  power  which  lessens  the  sense  of  fatigue  and  hunger.  The  first  and  the  last 
conclusions  are  reasonable,  and  seem  to  be  confirmed  by  the  experiments  of  Mason,  who 
inferred  from  them  that  the  effects  of  coca  include  stimulation  of  the  nervous  system  and 
retardation  of  metamorphosis. 

In  its  native  country,  Colombia,  coca  is  used,  precisely  as  Chinese  tea  is  elsewhere,  as 
a mild  stimulant  and  diaphoretic  and  an  aid  to  digestion.  These  are  mainly  the  purposes 


504 


COCA  IN JE  IIYDROCHLORAS. 


of  coffee,  chocolate,  and  guarana  ; and  experiment  has  proved  that  the  active  constituents 
of  all  these  productions,  “ although  unlike  one  another  and  procured  from  totally  different 
sources,  possess  in  common  prominent  principles  which  are  not  only  almost  identical  in 
chemical  composition,  but  also  appear  similar  in  physiological  action  ” (Bennett). 

Coca  has  been  gravely  suggested  as  a means  of  appeasing  hunger  and  thirst  in  armies 
on  forced  marches  and  on  voyages  with  insufficient  food  and  water ; but  the  fact  is  over- 
looked that  hardly  enough  of  it  has  hitherto  been  procurable  for  laboratory  experiments, 
and  that  tobacco,  coffee,  and  tea,  which  are  abundant,  have  closely  analogous  virtues.  It 
has  also  been  proposed  for  allaying  the  canine  hunger  observed  in  some  cases  of  epilepsy 
and  insanity , and  to  appease  the  thirst  in  diabetes.  Opium  has  generally  been  used  to 
fulfil  these  indications.  In  melancholia  it  may  be  employed  as  opium  and  also  cannabis 
have  been,  and  probably  with  as  little  real  advantage.  Like  tea  and  coffee,  it  has  been 
found  useful  in  nervous  headache  and  in  the  typhoid  state  of  fevers.  It  is  one  of  the 
stimulants  that  may  be  substituted  for  opiates  in  treating  the  opium  habit.  It  is  said  to 
have  been  used  in  South  America  to  overcome  uterine  inertia  and  to  allay  pain  and  the 
discharges  in  cholera  morbus.  It  is  reported  to  have  been  useful  in  spermatorrhoea  and 
generative  debility , but  no  proof  exists  of  so  improbable  a statement.  According  to  one 
reporter,  it  is  of  use  in  granular  pharyngitis  and  in  relaxation  of  the  vocal  cords. 

The  Indian  coca-chewer  always  carries  a bag  of  the  leaves  hanging  from  his  neck  and 
a small  flask  filled  with  ashes  or  lime.  After  having  withdrawn  the  filaments  from  a hand- 
ful of  leaves,  he  chews  them  until  they  are  reduced  to  a pulp  ; this  he  forms  into  a ball, 
which  he  pierces  with  a splinter  wetted  and  covered  with  adhering  ashes.  The  mass  has 
then  acquired  a pungent  taste  which  excites  copious  salivation  ; a part  of  the  saliva  is 
ejected  and  a part  swallowed.  The  ball  is  retained  in  the  mouth  for  about  an  hour,  and 
then  is  renewed  with  a fresh  handful  of  leaves.  For  medicinal  purposes  the  most  con- 
venient form  is  an  infusion  made  with  about  Gm.  8 (^ij)  of  the  leaves  in  Gm.  120  (f^iv) 
of  water. 

COCAINES  HYDROCHLORAS,  U,  S.,  Br.— Cocaine  Hydrochlorate. 

Cocainum  hydrochloricum , P.  G. — Chlorhydrate  de  cocaine , Fr.  ; Cocainhydrochlorat , G. 
Formula  C17H21N04.HC1.  Molecular  weight  338.71. 

The  hydrochlorate  of  an  alkaloid  obtained  from  coca. 

Preparation. — Niemann’s  process  (1860)  consists  in  preparing  a tincture  with 
alcohol  acidulated  with  sulphuric  acid,  treating  this  with  milk  of  lime  to  remove  wax 
and  coloring-matter,  neutralizing  the  filtrate  with  sulphuric  acid,  distilling  off  the  alcohol, 
diluting  the  residue  with  water,  filtering,  adding  sodium  carbonate,  and  agitating  with 
ether.  The  impure  alkaloid  left  on  evaporation  of  the  ether  is  again  treated  with  acid- 
ulated water,  sodium  carbonate,  and  ether,  then  decolorized,  neutralized  with  hydrochloric 
acid,  and  recrystallized.  Lossen’s  process  (1865)  differs  from  Niemann’s  in  that  an 
infusion  of  the  drug  is  used  from  which  the  tannin  is  separated  by  lead  acetate  and  the 
alkaloid  taken  up  with  ether.  The  purification  is  carried  on  in  the  same  manner  as  in 
the  former  process.  By  these  processes  a mixture  of  other  alkaloids,  as  are  described 
under  Cooa,  is  also  obtained.  Since  Liebermann  and  Geisel  have  shown  that  these 
can  readily  be  converted  into  cocaine,  they  have  become  rather  important.  The  two  pro- 
cesses, which  are  covered  by  patents,  depend  primarily  on  the  decomposition  of  the 
alkaloids  into  ecgonine.  and  the  acids  and  the  alcohols  by  boiling  with  strong  hydro- 
chloric acid.  On  cooling  the  organic  acids  separate ; the  solution  is  then  filtered  and 
evaporated  to  dryness.  The  residue  is  washed  with  warm  alcohol  and  the  alkaloid  ecgo- 
nine liberated  with  a carbonate  or  hydroxide.  The  ecgonine  is  boiled  with  benzoic  anhy- 
dride for  a short  time,  the  benzoic  acid  formed  extracted  with  ether,  and  the  solution 
allowed  to  crystallize.  These  crystals,  benzoyl-ecgonine,  are  dissolved  in  methylic  alco- 
hol, and  hydrochloric-acid  gas  led  into  the  solution,  which  converts  the  compound  into 
cocaine  or  methyl-ben zoyl-ecgonine.  According  to  another  process  the  methyl  ether  of 
ecgonine  is  first  formed,  and  this  then  treated  with  benzoyl-chloride,  yielding  cocaine. 

Properties. — The  salt  crystallizes  from  water  in  delicate  radiating  groups  of  needles, 
and  from  alcohol  in  short  and  thin  prisms.  It  usually  is  seen  as  a white  crystalline 
powder,  which  is  nearly  inodorous,  has  a slight  acid  reaction  and  a bitter  taste,  and  pro- 
duces on  the  tongue  a tingling  sensation  followed  by  numbness.  At  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  it 
is  soluble  in  0.48  parts  of  water  and  in  3.5  parts  of  alcohol ; very  soluble  in  boiling 
water  and  boiling  alcohol.  It  is  soluble  in  2800  parts  of  ether  and  in  17  parts  of 
chloroform,  but  is  insoluble  in  fixed  oils.  Cold  mineral  acids  dissolve  the  salt  without 


COCAINjE  hydrochloras. 


505 


color.  A small  quantity  of  the  salt  rubbed  on  a dry  porcelain  slab  with  an  equal 
bulk  of  mercurous  chloride  and  then  breathed  on  should  assume  a dark  gray  or  grayish- 
black  color.  If  a small  quantity  of  the  powdered  salt  be  heated  for  twenty  minutes 
to  100°  C.  (212°  F.),  it  should  suffer  no  material  loss  (absence  of  water  of  crystal- 
lization).— U.  S.  Heating  the  salt  or  its  solution  for  a longer  time,  decomposition  will 
set  in.  At  193°  C.  (379.4°  F.)  the  salt  melts,  forming  a light  brownish-yellow  liquid, 
and  when  ignited  burns  .without  leaving  a residue.  The  aqueous  solution  yields  yellow 
or  light-yellow  precipitates  with  gold  chloride,  platinum  chloride,  and  picric  acid,  and 
white  precipitates  with  mercuric  chloride,  stannous  chloride,  tannin,  and  with  the  alkalies 
and  alkali  carbonates,  the  latter  precipitates  being  soluble  in  ammonia  and  ammonium 
carbonate.  A solution  of  the  salt  yields  a white  precipitate  with  solution  of  silver  nitrate 
which  is  insoluble  in  nitric  acid.  Giesel  (1886)  observed  that  the  solution  of  the  salt  in 
water  if  not  too  dilute  gives  with  solution  of  potassium  permanganate  a violet-purple 
crystalline  precipitate  of  cocaine  permanganate.  “ If  1 drop  of  a mixture  of  1 volume 
of  decinormal  potassium  permanganate  solution  and  2 volumes  of  water  be  added  to  5 
Cc.  of  a 2 per  cent,  solution  of  cocaine  hydrochlorate  mixed  with  three  drops  of  diluted 
sulphuric  acid,  and  contained  in  a small,  clean,  glass-stoppered  vial,  the  pink  tint  pro- 
duced by  the  permanganate  should  not  entirely  disappear  within  half  an  hour  (absence 
of  cinnamyl-cocaine  and  some  other  bases  derived  from  coca).” — U.  S.,  P.  G.  If  5 
drops  of  a 5 per  cent,  solution  of  chromic  acid  be  added  to  5 Cc.  of  a 2 per  cent,  solu- 
tion of  cocaine  hydrochlorate,  a yellow  precipitate  is  produced  which  dissolves  on  shak- 
ing ; if  1 Cc.  of  hydrochloric  acid  is  now  added,  a permanent  orange-yellow  precipitate 
will  be  formed. — U.  S.  If  a few  drops  of  an  aqueous  cocaine  solution  are  mixed 
with  2 to  3 Cc.  of  chlorine- water,  and  then  with  2 or  3 drops  of  a 5 per  cent,  solu- 
tion of  palladium  chloride,  a red  colored  precipitate,  which  is  slowly  decomposed  by 
water,  is  formed.  The  precipitate  is  insoluble  in  alcohol  and  ether,  but  is  dissolved  by 
solution  of  sodium  thiosulphate. 

Alkaloid  and  Salts. — The  alkaloid  cocaine  when  pure  forms  colorless  prismatic  crystals  of  a 
strongly  alkaline  reaction.  It  has  a bitterish  taste  and  produces  a transient  numbness  on  the 
tongue.  It  dissolves  in  704  parts  of  water  at  12°  C.  (53.6°  F.)  (Liebermann),  in  1300  parts  of 
cold  water  (Paul),  and  in  much  less  alcohol  and  ether;  it  is  also  soluble  in  fixed  oils.  Its  com- 
position is  C17H21N04,  and  on  being  kept  in  solution  for  some  time  or  by  boiling  with  acids  or 
alkalies  it  is  split  into  methylic  alcohol,  CII40,  benzoic  acid,  C7II602,  and  ecgonine,  C9H15N03, 
the  latter  having  a sweetish  taste,  and  is  soluble  in  water,  but  insoluble  in  alcohol. 

Cocaine  benzoate  may  be  obtained  by  combining  2 parts  of  benzoic  acid  and  5 parts  of 
cocaine  with  water  and  crystallizing  at  a low  temperature.  A solution  of  the  salt  may  be 
readily  prepared  from  the  acid  and  alkaloid  in  the  proportion  given.  The  salt  crystallizes  with 
difficulty  in  needles,  and  is  very  freely  soluble  in  water ; its  solution  yields  with  ammonia  a 
precipitate  of  cocaine,  and  with  hydrochloric  acid  a precipitate  of  benzoic  acid.  These  reagents 
do  not  affect  a solution  of  benzoyl-ecgonine , which  Paul  (1886)  observed  has  been  sold  in  the  place 
of  the  benzoate ; it  crystallizes  more  readily  than  the  latter,  is  less  freely  soluble  in  cold  water, 
and  is  formed  from  cocaine  by  the  influence  of  water  and  heat,  more  particularly  under  increased 
pressure. 

Cocaine  phenate  forms  a yellow  viscid  mass  which  is  insoluble  in  water,  but  soluble  in 
alcohol.  It  was  recommended  by  Von  Oefele  as  a substitute  for  the  hydrochlorate  because  it  is 
not  absorbed  as  readily  as  this,  and  could  be  used  with  better  effect  on  the  mucous  membrane 
where  simply  a local  anaesthetic  action  is  desired. 

Cocaine  nitrate  forms  large  colorless  crystals  which  are  readily  soluble  in  water.  It  was 
recommended  by  Lavaux  to  be  used  in  combination  with  silver  nitrate  for  rendering  the  action 
of  the  latter  painless  if  used  as  a caustic. 

Action  and  Uses. — Like  many  other  nervines,  cocaine  in  sufficient  dose  first 
excites  and  then  benumbs  general  sensibility — an  effect  exhibited  by  the  mouth  and 
throat  when  the  medicine  has  been  applied  in  a liquid  form.  If  water  is  taken  imme- 
diately afterward,  it  produces  an  impression  of  coldness  upon  these  parts,  such  as  is  felt 
after  they  have  been  touched  with  oil  of  peppermint.  General  numbness  is  not  observed 
unless  the  dose  is  large,  and  does  not  usually  follow  the  primary  stimulation  as  rapidly 
as  in  the  case  of  opium  or  alcohol.  The  action  of  cocaine  upon  the  nervous  system  was 
first  described  by  Schroff  as  resembling  that  of  Indian  hemp.  It  occasioned  indistinct- 
ness or  confusion  of  thought  and  of  the  senses,  a glow  throughout  the  body,  and  at  first 
a general  sense  of  cheerfulness  and  well-being,  but  later  on  giddiness,  disorder  of  the 
senses,  buzzing  in  the  ears,  dilatation  of  the  pupils  with  impaired  accommodation  of  the 
eye,  paleness  of  the  skin  and  conjunctivae,  headache,  restlessness,  a sense  of  walking 
upon  air,  quickened  and  then  retarded  movements  of  the  chest  and  heart,  eructations, 
occasional  vomiting,  and  sometimes  sleep.  The  comparatively  cheerful  intoxication  pro- 


506 


CO CAINjE  H Y DR  0 CHL  ORA  S. 


duced  by  moderate  doses  was  associated  with  a singular  endurance  of  fatigue  and  insen- 
sibility to  hunger.  The  effects  of  an  internal  dose  of  about  2 grains  of  the  substance 
may  last  four  or  five  hours,  during  which  time,  says  Frend,  the  muscular  power  is  notably 
increased  ( Lancet , April  4,  1885).  An  analysis  of  16  cases  of  cocaine-poisoning  which 
recovered  has  furnished  the  following  conclusions : The  most  conspicuous  symptom  is 
collapse,  in  which  the  skin  is  pale,  cold,  and  generally  moist,  especially  upon  the  limbs. 
In  the  graver  cases  it  is  usually  cyanotic.  The  pulse  is  always  feeble  and  thready, 
becoming  more  so  as  the  case  advances,  and  generally  is  very  frequent,  running  to  120- 
200,  or  else  failing  entirely.  In  exceptional  cases  it  is  slow,  and  may  fall  to  38,  and  the 
respiration  to  5,  as  it  did  in  one  case  ( Practitioner , xli.  288).  The  respiration  is  very 
characteristic,  being  shallow,  slow,  and  labored — a condition  which  is  partly  explained  by 
the  congested  state  of  the  lungs,  which  also  accounts  for  the  cutaneous  cyanosis.  A 
physician,  describing  his  personal  experience,  states  that  he  could  under  cocaine  suspend 
respiration  for  two  minutes  without  inconvenience  ( Therap . Gaz .,  xii.  516).  In  extreme 
cases  consciousness  appears  to  be  lost,  but  this  is  sometimes  only  apparent  and  due  to 
general  anaesthesia.  A patient  stated  that  he  knew  he  was  being  pinched,  but  he  felt  no 
pain.  Headache  and  vertigo  are  often  felt,  and  occasionally  throbbing  of  the  carotid 
arteries.  Delirium,  if  it  occurs,  is  generally  during  the  reaction,  but  hallucinations  are 
not  unusual.  To  one  patient  every  object  appeared  white  {Med.  Mews,  liv.  44).  The 
pupils  are  generally  dilated  and  insensible,  the  eye  has  sometimes  a glistening  look, 
blindness  occasionally  is  noted,  and  almost  always  the  vision  is  dim.  Pain  is  seldom 
complained  of.  The  limbs  are  often  tremulous,  but  are  rarely  affected  by  spasm. 
Formication  has  been  noted.  Unless  the  patient  is  unconscious  he  complains  of  thirst, 
and  the  mouth  and  fauces  are  very  dry.  Vomiting  is  not  unusual.  Diuresis  has 
several  times  been  observed.  Such  symptoms  as  the  foregoing  may  come  on 
immediately  after  the  administration  of  cocaine,  but  a case  is  recorded  in  which  thirty- 
five  minutes  elapsed  before  their  appearance  (Med.  News , xliii.  208 ; for  additional  cases 
of  cocaine-poisoning  see  Mattison,  Therap.  Gaz.,  xii.  16;  and  editorial,  ibid.,  p.  373). 
Mattison  {loc.  cit .)  in  Nov.,  1887,  estimated  the  reported  deaths  from  cocaine  at  six  in 
number.  Since  that  date  one  followed  the  injection  of  1 drachm  of  a 20  per  cent,  solu- 
tion of  muriate  of  cocaine  into  the  urethra.  The  symptoms  were  muscular  twitching, 
convulsions,  staring  eyes,  dilated  pupils,  congested  face,  impeded  respiration,  followed  by 
slowness  and  irregularity  of  the  heart,  general  cyanosis,  and  death  at  the  end  of  twenty 
minutes.  After  death  the  brain,  lungs,  and  left  side  of  the  heart  were  filled  with  blood 
{Med.  News,  liii.  70).  Another  was  caused  by  the  internal  use  of  Gm.  1.3  (gr.  xx)  of 
cocaine  {Lancet,  Feb.  1889,  p.  292).  During  1889  and  1890  at  least  40  cases  of  poison- 
ing by  this  preparation  were  published,  of  which  2 {Therap.  Gaz.,  xiii.  791  ; Med. 
Record,  xxxvii.  427)  were  fatal  : for  later  examples  see  {Therap.  Gaz.,  xv.  202;  xvi. 
188,  206,  288,  405,  625  ; xvii.  200. 

The  chief  purpose  of  cocaine  is  to  prevent  or  relieve  pain  by  its  anodyne  or  anaes- 
thetic action.  It  is  evident  that  the  number  of  cases  in  which  these  indications  may 
exist  is  almost  endless.  We  shall  enumerate  the  most  important  of  them.  First  in 
point  of  time,  and  perhaps  in  relation  to  the  usefulness  of  the  medicine,  are  diseases  of 
the  eye  requiring  operations,  including  strabismus,  cataract , iridectomy,  wounds  of  the  eye, 
etc.  It  certainly  renders  general  anaesthesia  superfluous  in  operations  on  the  eye,  and 
by  preventing  pain  lessens  the  patient’s  alarm  and  agitation.  Therefore  it  renders  many 
operations  easy  which  were  formerly  embarrassing  to  the  surgeon  and  painful  to  the 
patient,  including  all  involving  the  use  of  cutting  instruments,  the  application  of  caustics, 
stimulants,  astringents,  etc.  It  does  not  tend  to  occasion  vomiting,  which  ether  and 
chloroform  are  apt  to  do.  The  use  of  this  agent  in  operations  for  cataract  has,  however, 
been  charged  with  certain  untoward  effects  by  several  oculists,  including  ulceration  and 
exfoliation,  or  opacity,  of  the  cornea,  tardy  healing  of  the  wound  made  in  operating,  and 
flaccidity,  and  even  destructive  inflammation,  of  the  globe.  These  alleged  effects  are  attrib- 
uted to  the  constringing  action  of  cocaine,  which  lowers  the  vitality  of  the  tissues.  But 
it  is  denied,  on  the  other  hand,  that  such  results  are  attributable  to  cocaine  when  a fresh 
solution  of  it  is  employed,  and  certainly  they  are  not  more  frequent  than  such  as  attend 
the  use  of  general  anaesthetics.  Among  the  other  operations  in  which  this  agent  has 
been  found  valuable  are  the  following : incision  of  the  lachrymal  ducts , growths  on  the 
conjunctiva  and  cornea , and  all  operations  on  the  interior  of  the  eye,  including  paracentesis, 
iridectomy , prolapse  of  the  iris,  enucleation  and  evacuation  of  the  eyeball.  In  the  two 
operations  last  mentioned  it  is  necessary  to  inject  the  solution  behind  the  globe.  The 
operations  for  staphyloma,  pterygium , tenotomy,  annoying  foreign  bodies , cautery,  and 


COCAINJE  HYDROCHLORAS. 


507 


trachoma  have  been  greatly  facilitated  by  its  use.  It  has  been  suggested  that  its  asso- 
ciation with  atropine,  so  as  to  obtain  a maximum  dilatation  along  with  the  greatest 
anaesthesia,  is  to  be  preferred  in  iritis,  and  is  indicated  in  operating  for  cataract  by 
extraction  (atropine  gr.  5^0  and  cocaine  gr.  in  solution  or  in  gelatin  disks).  If  the 
dilating  action  is  excessive,  it  can  be  corrected  by  eserine.  This  agent  has  also  been  used 
to  combat  the  injurious  effects  of  cocaine  in  glaucoma , as  it  had  already  been  for  a similar 
purpose  when  atropine  was  employed  to  dilate  the  pupil.  But  the  dominant  opinion  is 
that  cocaine  is  not  adapted  to  the  operation  for  glaucoma.  Objection  has  also  been  made 
to  introducing  it  into  the  anterior  chamber  of  the  eye  to  blunt  the  sensibility  of  the  iris  : 
it  is  charged  with  having  in  this  way  caused  panophthalmitis.  Cocaine  is  incomparably 
the  best  application  for  relieving  photophobia  in  cases  of  ulcer  of  the  cornea  or  conjunc- 
tiva, and  for  facilitating  ophthalmoscopic  examinations.  An  East  Indian  surgeon  states 
that  a 2 per  cent,  solution  reduced  greatly  the  size  of  hypopion.  In  a word,  the  most 
important  indication  for  the  use  of  cocaine  is  the  spontaneous  existence  or  the  mechanical 
production  of  pain.  It  is  thought  by  some  that  the  oleate  is  superior  to  the  muriate  of 
cocaine,  especially  in  ophthalmic  surgery,  on  the  ground  that  it  is  a more  powerful 
anaesthetic,  that  it  causes  more  prolonged  mydriasis,  and  that  it  is  less  liable  to  be  washed 
away  by  the  tears  ( Med . Record , xxvii.  264). 

Cocaine  is  of  singular  utility  in  affections  of  the  nasal  cavity , owing  not  only  to  its 
anaesthetic  virtues,  but  also  to  its  power  of  contracting  or  constringing  the  Schneiderian 
membrane  and  thereby  enlarging  the  nostrils.  In  ordinary  coryza , whether  acute  or 
chronic,  this  action  is  of  marked  advantage.  A roll  of  fine  and  soft  cambric  saturated 
with  a 5-10  per  cent,  solution  of  cocaine  muriate  has  been  introduced  into  the  nostril, 
but  the  mechanical  irritation  thus  produced  is  very  objectionable.  Absorbent  cotton  is 
preferable  to  any  woven  tissue  for  this  purpose.  Cocaine  mixed  with  an  inert  powder 
and  used  as  a snuff  has  also  been  employed,  especially  in  hay  fever , but  it  also  is  irritating 
to  the  inflamed  membrane.  An  atomized  solution  has  also  been  applied.  Dr.  DaCosta 
has  recognized  the  truth  that  in  this  disease  cocaine  is  rather  a palliative  than  a cure, 
but  still  a very  valuable  remedy.  He  recommends  that  from  5 to  8 drops  of  a 4 per 
cent,  solution  should  be  injected  into  each  nostril  with  a syringe  while  the  head  is  thrown 
backward  and  care  is  taken  not  to  irritate  the  nasal  membrane  with  the  instrument 
(Trans.  Coll,  of  Phys.  Philadelphia , 3d  Ser.  viii.  197).  Some  persons  have  advised  that 
the  solution  be  applied  to  the  eyes  and  allowed  to  reach  the  nostrils  through  the  lachrymal 
ducts.  But  this  is  an  indirect  and  unpractical  method.  The  constringing  and  anaesthetic 
action  of  the  preparation  facilitates  all  examinations  within  the  nose,  pharynx,  or  larynx, 
the  removal  of  polypi  and  other  tumors , the  reduction  of  hypertrophy  of  the  lining  mem- 
brane, the  overcoming  of  nasal  stenosis , the  use  of  caustics , etc.  It  is  also  valuable  as  a 
means  of  arresting  epistaxis. 

The  application  of  cocaine  to  the  pharynx  has  been  of  great  value  in  facilitating  the 
use  of  instruments  employed  in  treating  affections  of  this  region  and  of  the  larynx , in- 
cluding the  use  of  the  rhinoseope  and  the  laryngoscope , and  also  the  introduction  of  the 
stomach-tube.  In  removing  tumors  of  the  larynx  the  previous  great  impediments  to  the 
operation  have  in  a great  measure  been  overcome  by  its  use.  It  has  also  rendered  more 
tolerable  the  difficulties  of  deglutition  which  occur  in  certain  cases  of  pulmonary  tubercu- 
losis, syphilis , cancer , etc.  Strong  solutions  are  here  to  be  preferred,  such  as  from  4 to  6 
per  cent.,  but  some  German  operators  have  used  even  20  per  cent,  solutions.  It  has  been 
•claimed  that  a 4 per  cent,  solution  will  dissolve  the  false  membranes  of  diphtheria  (Med. 
Mews,  xlvi.  455  ; Therapeutic  Gaz.,  ix.  657).  A 20  per  cent,  solution  applied  to  the 
tonsils  in  acute  tonsillitis  has  relieved  the  pain,  permitted  deglutition,  and  hastened  the 
cure  ( Practitioner , xli.  47).  Tonsillotomy  and  uvulatomy  are  said  to  be  painless  after  the 
enlarged  organs  are  well  painted  with  a 3 per  cent,  solution.  The  operation  for  cleft 
palate  is  greatly  facilitated  by  it.  In  hydrophobia  it  is  alleged  to  have  enabled  the 
patients  to  swallow  liquids  (Therap.  Gazette , ix.  395).  Before  the  introduction  of  cocaine 
infusions  of  coca  were  used  as  gargles,  and  also  as  atomized'  liquids,  in  various  affections 
of  the  air-passages  and  throat,  and  particularly  in  the  treatment  of  whooping  cough  ; the 
alkaloid  and  its  preparations  have  been  applied  to  the  same  purposes,  and  with  good  effect, 
in  palliating  the  paroxysms  and  preventing  vomiting,  but  not  in  shortening  the  disease. 
The  application  of  cocaine  solutions  has  been  found  useful  in  arresting  or  palliating  in- 
flammatory action  in  the  nostril,  pharynx,  fauces,  and  larynx,  and  their  hypodermic 
injection  around  the  anus  facilitates  the  forcible  dilatation  of  this  opening  and  the  opera- 
tions that  interest  it.  It  may  also  be  used  to  prevent  the  pain  of  paracentesis  of  the 
pleura  or  abdomen. 


508 


COCAINE  llYDROGTILORAS. 


Various  painful  affections  of  the  ear  are  mitigated  by  cocaine,  such  as  inflammation , 
neuralgia , tumors  of  various  sorts,  etc.  It  greatly  facilitates  specular  examination  of  the 
auditory  canal , the  use  of  instruments  in  this  part,  the  catheterism  of  the  Eustachian 
tube,  and  all  operations  upon  either.  Dr.  Burnett  (Med.  News , xlvii.  100)  enumerates  as 
follows  the  limits  of  its  usefulness:  “ It  is  not  efficient  when  the  pain  is  due  to  inflamma- 
tion in  the  dense  tissues  of  the  external  auditory  canal,  as  in  furuncles  of  the  part,  nor 
when  acute  inflammation  occurs  in  chronically-thickened  periosteal  and  mucous  tissues  in 
the  tympanic  cavity.  It  is,  however,  efficient  to  induce  local  anaesthesia,  as  a 4 per  cent, 
solution,  in  cases  of  not  excessive  congestion  of  the  skin  of  the  fundus  of  the  auditory 
canal,  and  in  the  membrana  flaccida  of  the  drum  membrane  as  it  is  observed  in  acute 

coryza But  solutions  of  cocaine  are  not  competent  to  produce  local  anaesthesia  in 

the  external  auditory  canal  profound  enough  to  permit  painless  incisions  into  it.”  Para- 
centesis of  the  membrana  tympani  is  not  painful  enough  to  require  local  anaesthesia.  It 

is,  however,  very  difficult  to  anaesthetize  this  membrane : Kircher  found  that  nothing 
short  of  a 20  per  cent,  solution  would  have  this  effect ; but  Zauful,  confirming  this  state- 
ment, also  mentions  that  in  large  perforations  the  mucous  membrane  can  be  reached  and 
anaesthetized  ( Philada . Med.  Times,  xvi.  4).  Tinnitus  is  palliated  by  cocaine,  but,  as  this 
symptom  usually  depends  on  permanent  conditions,  palliation  is  of  little  value. 

A 10  to  20  per  cent,  solution  of  hydrochlorate  of  cocaine  is  a palliative  of  the  pain 
and  swelling  of  the  lining  membrane  of  the  mouth  in  mercurial  salivation.  It  is  certain 
that  toothache  due  to  exposure  of  the  pulp  in  a carious  tooth  is  greatly  mitigated  by  fill- 
ing the  cavity  with  cotton-wool  saturated  with  a solution  of  cocaine ; it  is  also  certain 
that  rheumatic  toothache  and  the  pains  of  dentition  are  palliated  by  painting  the  painful 
gum  with  the  same  solution.  The  severe  aching  in  the  socket  of  a molar  tooth  which 
had  just  been  extracted  was  at  once  relieved  by  filling  the  cavity  with  cocaine  solution 
on  cotton-wool.  On  the  other  hand,  its  claim  to  prevent  the  pain  caused  by  excavating 
sensitive  teeth  is  denied  by  some  dental  surgeons,  and  it  has  been  suggested  that  in  these 
cases  and  in  the  extraction  of  teeth  the  expectation  of  the  patients  must  be  given  due 
weight  ( Ephemeris , i.  762).  Dr.  Marshall  of  Chicago,  having  failed  to  prevent  pain  by 
using  muriate  of  cocaine  in  excavating  carious  teeth,  employed  instead  the  citrate,  which 
had  been  applied  to  this  purpose  in  Germany.  He  found  it  much  more  efficient  than  the 
muriate,  although  when  first  applied  it  occasioned  a stinging  pain.  The  application  usu- 
ally made  by  him  was  of  Jg-  grain  (Jour.  Am.  Med.  Assoc.,  v.  290).  Martindale  and  Tut- 
tle report  that  a 5 per  cent,  solution  of  the  oleate  of  cocaine  rubbed  into  the  gum,  and 
the  hypodermic  injection  of  2 or  3 minims  of  a 4 per  cent,  solution  of  it,  enabled  him  to 
extract  a tooth  with  little  or  no  pain,  and  that  a carious  maxillary  bone  was  painlessly 
removed  after  a similar  procedure.  In  extracting  teeth  about  eight  minutes  should 
elapse  between  the  application  and  the  operation  (Med.  Record,  xxviii.  651).  Dr.  Mar- 
shall, above  quoted,  on  the  other  hand,  did  not  find  the  oleate  as  efficient  as  the  muriate 
or  the  citrate.  Undoubtedly,  the  only  way  of  rendering  this  method  efficient  is  by  inject- 
ing the  solution  into  the  gum  in  two  doses.  Viau,  Lebrun,  and  Andina  have  approved 

it.  They  injected  about  grain  into  both  surfaces  of  the  gum  (Jour.  Am.  Med.  Assoc., 
viii.  572  ; Med.  Record , xxx.  475)  ; but  toxical  effects  have  often  followed  ( Lancet , Mar. 
17,  1888).  They  may  be  prevented  by  using  a compound  injection  of  cocaine  and  anti- 
pyrine,  1:10.  In  one  case,  which  ended  fatally,  there  was  profuse  haemorrhage  after 
the  extraction  of  a large  number  of  loose  stumps  (Centralbl.  f.  Ther.,  vi.  632).  In 
another  case  the  effects  only  threatened  to  be  serious  (Therap.  Gaz.,  xii.  859).  Partial 
or  superficial  staphylorraphy  is  more  conveniently  performed  under  cocaine  than  with 
ether  or  chloroform  (Archives  gen.,  Dec.  1886,  p.  752).  It  has  succeeded  also  in  the 
operation  for  hare-lip  (Med.  Record,  xxxiv.  479),  and  in  that  for  hernia  (Med.  Record, 
xxx i.  124).  In  diseases  of  the  skin  cocaine  is  a valuable  palliative  of  itching  and  other 
morbid  sensations,  such  as  exist  in  eczema,  scabies,  erysipelas,  herpes,  etc.  For  this 
purpose  it  is  best  applied  in  an  ointment  or  liniment  with  lanolin.  Pruritus  ani,  vaginae, 
etc.  may  be  treated  with  cocaine  ointments  or  suppositories.  External  neuralgia  may  be 
palliated  by  muriate  of  cocaine  applied  upon  the  superficial  and  painful  points  of  the 
affected  nerve,  and  probably  better  still  by  hypodermic  injections. 

In  the  various  painful  affections  and  operations  involving  the  urethra  and  the  bladder 
cocaine  is  incomparably  the  best  anaesthetic.  It  renders  the  passage  of  all  appropriate 
instruments  painless,  and  therefore  lessens  the  shock  of  operations  requiring  this  proce- 
dure. In  some  cases,  also,  its  anaesthetic  and  constringing  action  renders  the  urethra 
pervious  to  the  urine  and  the  use  of  instruments  unnecessary.  Hence  it  has  greatly 
facilitated  the  treatment  of  urethral  strictures  by  dilatation  or  by  cutting,  and  operations 


CO  CA 1XAE  IlYDR  0 CHL  ORA  S. 


509 


for  removing  stone  in  the  bladder  by  crushing  it.  In  one  reported  case  the  bladder  was 
injected  with  half  an  ounce  of  a 4 per  cent,  solution  of  cocaine,  and  the  operation  was 
begun  and  completed  painlessly  in  a quarter  of  an  hour  ( Lancet , Jan.  17,  1885).  In 
another  case  the  solution  was  only  i per  cent,  strong,  and  yet  perfectly  efficient  (Bull, 
de  Therap.,  cxiv.  384).  Settier  has  employed  it  in  various  operations  on  the  genito- 
urinary organs  with  entire  success  ( Lancet , Feb.  25,  1888),  but  other  surgeons  have  met 
with  alarming  effects  from  it,  and,  as  we  have  noted  above,  one  instance  is  recorded  of 
death  apparently  caused  by  it.  In  the  operation  for  hydrocele  a solution  of  cocaine  has 
been  used  before  the  injection  of  iodine  or  corrosive  sublimate  to  palliate  the  pain  caused 
by  the  latter  agents.  It  is  the  most  efficient  agent  in  promoting  the  reduction  of  phimo- 
sis and  paraphimosis , and  in  preventing  pain  in  surgical  operations  for  their  cure.  The 
operation  of  circumcision  may  be  rendered  painless  by  its  use  (Med.  Record , xxx.  345). 
Suppositories  or  enemata  containing  it  are  very  serviceable  in  cases  of  enlarged  prostate 
causing  vesical  or  rectal  tenesmus,  and  also  for  irritable  bladder.  Spasm  in  the  female 
as  well  as  in  the  male  urethra  has  been  completely  overcome  by  injections  of  this  prepa- 
ration ; and  there  is  no  better  remedy  for  chordee  than  it  is  when  applied  by  the  urethra 
or  the  rectum.  In  that  most  painfully  distressing  affection,  vaginism , this  preparation 
has  repeatedly  overcome  a spasm  that  had  recurred  again  and  again  for  years,  and  has 
permitted  the  full  and  painless  accomplishment  of  the  generative  act.  In  like  manner  it 
has  been  used  in  a 4 per  cent,  ointment,  or  preferably  in  a watery  solution,  to  mitigate 
the  pains  of  labor,  and  especially  of  its  first  stage,  and  in  appropriate  forms  to  relieve 
dysmenorrhcea  and  other  uterine  pains,  such  as  depend  upon  endometritis,  lacerated 
cervix,  etc.  It  is  best  applied  with  vaseline  and  glycerin,  forming  a 10  per  cent,  mixture, 
and  injected  into  the  uterine  end  of  the  vagina  ; suppositories  and  tampons  may  also  be 
used.  They  are  most  efficient  during  the  first  stage  of  labor  (Boston  Med.  and  Surg. 
Jour.,  Feb.  1888,  p.  196).  It  has  been  employed  with  like  advantage  in  many  opera- 
tions upon  the  vagina  and  uterus,  as  in  those  for  lacerated  cervix , vesico-vaginal  fistida, 
extraction  of  a vesical  calcidus  through  the  vagina  (Med.  News , xlvi.  602),  etc.  This 
preparation  renders  all  exploratory  examinations  of  the  vagina  and  rectum  painless,  as 
well  as  such  operations  as  those  fbr  fissure,  idcer,  haemorrhoids,  fistula,  etc.  It  is  even 
claimed  that  it  removes  the  chief  objections  to  the  operation  of  excision  of  piles. 
A 4 per  cent,  solution  may  be  painted  over  the  swellings,  and  a minim  of  the  same 
injected  into  each  one  at  the  muco-cutaneous  junction.  The  rectal  symptoms  of  dysen- 
tery may  be  greatly  palliated  by  cocaine  enemata  or  suppositories,  and  cocaine  ointments 
or  solutions  (1  : 20)  are  useful  palliatives  of  the  pain  of  rectal  cancer.  Various  small 
tumors  have  been  removed  without  pain  under  the  action  of  cocaine,  which,  as  in  the 
case  of  haemorrhoids,  have  first  been  rendered  insensitive  by  injecting  a solution  of  it 
into  the  substance  of  each  tumor  and  around  its  base.  In  a like  manner  foreign  bodies 
lodged  in  the  nostrils,  in  the  ears,  or  in  the  tissues  have  been  removed ; it  causes  the 
swollen  tissues  to  shrink  as  well  as  to  become  insensible.  It  has  also  been  applied  to 
removing  epithelioma  by  means  of  the  curette.  In  January,  1885  (Med.  News,  xlvi.  49), 
Drs.  Randolph  and  Dixon  found  that  when  a saturated  solution  of  cocaine  muriate  in 
strong  nitric  acid  was  applied  to  the  skin,  it  produced  an  eschar  such  as  the  acid  alone 
would  occasion,  but  more  slowly  than  usual,  and  that  the  process  was  almost  entirely 
painless.  In  October  of  the  same  year  they  applied  this  method  to  destroying  cancerous 
growths  by  means  of  a paste  formed  by  cocaine  muriate,  fused  potassa,  and  vaseline, 
after  having  previously  bathed  the  parts  with  a 10  per  cent,  solution  of  the  cocaine  salt. 
Gilliam  observed  that  a mixture  of  cocaine  and  salicylic  acid  rendered  friable  a supposed 
epithelioma  of  the  face,  and  permitted  the  curette  to  be  applied  painlessly,  Doubtless 
the  action  was  in  this,  as  in  other  cases,  anaemiating  as  well  as  anaesthetic.  In  the  ope- 
ration for  hydrocele,  after  the  withdrawal  of  the  liquid  from  the  sac,  a drachm,  more  or 
less,  of  a 5 per  cent,  solution  of  a cocaine  salt  is  injected,  which  is  allowed  to  bathe  the 
interior  during  from  five  to  ten  minutes,  after  which  the  usual  iodic  solution  may  be 
employed.  The  pain  of  burns  is  greatly  mitigated  by  a 2 per  cent,  solution  of  this 
preparation ; ivounds  of  the  eye  and  other  delicate  parts  may  in  like  manner  be  so 
benumbed  as  to  bear  the  necessary  manipulation  without  difficulty ; and  fractures  with 
displacement  of  the  fragments  belong  to  the  same  category.  A strong  solution  of 
cocaine  is  said  to  neutralize  the  pain  and  inflammation  of  insects'  stings ; injected  in  the 
course  of  a nerve,  it  controls  neuralgia  beyond  the  point  of  injection  ; sciatica  has  been 
removed  by  it  when  other  remedies  failed  (Med.  Record,  xxx.  544).  Fenwick  ( Lancet , 
May  5,  1888)  claims  that  the  milder  forms  of  neuralgia  of  the  urinary  organs  may  be 
relieved  by  injecting  a 20  per  cent,  solution  into  the  urethra  ; and  the  statement  is  con- 


510 


COCAINJE  HYDROCHLORAS. 


firmed  by  Rosenthal  ( Med . News,  liii.  43).  According  to  Dunn,  it  relieves  migraine 
( Therap . Gaz .,  xii.  516).  In  a word,  it  may  be  used  whenever  a local  anodyne  or 
anaesthetic  is  required.  Irritable  tumor , or  caruncle,  of  the  female  urethra  may  be 
also  rendered  insensible  before  excision  or  destruction  by  cautery.  Abscesses  may  be 
treated  in  like  manner  before  puncture,  and  especially  that  very  painful  variety,  whitlow. 
Even  amputations  have  been  performed  with  its  aid.  Dr.  Mott  has  reported  two  cases 
of  amputation  of  the  finger  treated  hypodermically  with  cocaine,  and  also  by  means  of 
Esmarch’s  bandage;  and  Dr.  Yarick,  a case  of  amputation  of  the  thigh,  which  in  this 
manner  was  rendered  nearly  painless  ( Med . Record , xxix.  94 ; Amer.  Jour,  of  Med  Sci., 
April,  1886,  p.  622;  for  later  cases  see  Boston  M.  and  S.  Jour.,  Jan.  1887,  p.  7 ; 
Med.  Record,  xxxi.  268,  634).  The  excruciating  pain  caused  by  the  operation  for 
ingrown  toe-nail  has  been  entirely  annulled  by  this  anaesthetic  applied  in  a 10  per  cent, 
solution,  so  as  to  saturate  the  raw  portions  of  the  part  (Med.  Record , xxvii.  627 ; xxviii. 
257  ; Med.  News , xlvii.  34).  A 2 per  cent,  solution  of  cocaine  injected  into  the  urethra 
renders  painless  caustic  injections  and  the  introduction  of  the  catheter  and  other  instru- 
ments into  the  urethra  and  bladder.  Vaccination  may  be  rendered  altogether  painless  by 
painting  a small  area  of  skin  with  a strong  solution  of  muriate  of  cocaine,  and  after  a 
few  minutes  scraping  away  the  epidermis  from  the  spot  and  reapplying  the  anaesthetic. 
Pruritus  vulvse  and  other  analogous  affections  are  greatly  palliated  by  this  agent.  Pro- 
fuse epistaxis  has  been  arrested  by  a 20-30  per  cent,  solution  applied  on  cotton  in  the 
nostrils  (Med.  News , Hi.  16).  In  a case  of  spontaneous  haemorrhage  from  the  gums, 
with  ecchymoses  elsewhere,  bleeding  was  arrested  by  a 4 per  cent,  solution  of  cocaine 
after  various  styptics  had  failed  (Philada.  Med.  Times , xv.  380). 

The  application  of  cocaine  to  the  treatment  of  internal  diseases  has  not  hitherto  been 
very  extensive,  because  its  action  has  appeared  to  be  almost  entirely  local  except  when 
it  is  taken  in  toxical  doses.  But  for  this  reason  it  must  have  appropriate  uses  in  cancer , 
simple  ulcer,  neuralgia , and  hemorrhage  of  the  stomach,  and  in  the  vomiting  occurring  in 
sea-sickness  and  in  pregnancy.  In  sea-sickness  it  has  been  employed  with  excellent 
results,  according  to  Manassein  (Med.  News,  xlvii.  320).  He  used  the  following  formula  : 
Muriate  of  cocaine  0.15  parts,  rectified  spirits  of  wine  q.  s.,  distilled  water  150  parts;  of 
which  a teaspoonful  was  to  be  taken  on  starting  for  sea,  and  every  two  or  three  honrs 
subsequently  until  the  danger  of  sickness  ceased.  It  seemed  to  act  both  as  a prophy- 
lactic and  a remedy.  These  results  were  confirmed  by  Wicherkiewicz  (ibid.,  p.  626) 
and  by  Mason  (Med.  Record,  xxix.  706).  Otto,  who  employed  1 to  ^ grain  two  or  three 
times  a day,  was  not  so  uniformly  successful  (ibid.,  xxviii.  656) ; and  Bissell,  who 
seems  to  have  fairly  tested  the  medicine,  condemned  it  as  worthless,  and  even  injurious 
(ibid.,  p.  683).  The  vomiting  of  pregnancy  has  been  arrested  by  this  medicine 
administered  by  the  mouth  or  the  rectum,  applied  as  an  ointment  to  the  uterus  or  given 
hypodermically.  It  has  been  found  to  control  the  vomiting  of  yellow  fever  (Med.  Record, 
xxxii.  678)  and  that  occasioned  by  an  irritant  poison  (arsenic)  (Med.  Record,  xxxi.  296). 
Laschkewitch  found  that  the  internal  use  of  from  one-third  to  one-half  of  a grain  of 
cocaine  three  or  four  times  daily  palliated  the  paroxysms  of  angina  pectoris,  and  some- 
times suspended  them.  He  observed  that  under  its  use  the  pulse  became  slower  and 
stronger,  and  the  urine  more  copious  (Med.  News,  xlix.  352)  ; also  Van  Noorden  (Bull,  de 
Therap .,  cxii.  325).  Dr.  DaCosta  has  shown  the  virtues  of  cocaine  as  a heart  tonic  in 
low  forms  of  fever  (Phila.  Med.  Times,  xvii.  302).  A case  of  idiopathic  tetanus  cured 
by  hypodermic  injections  of  cocaine  is  reported  (Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  July, 
1887,  p.  21).  In  mental  disorder,  which  it  was  supposed  peculiarly  fitted  to  cure,  cocaine 
has  not  been  successful  (Med.  News,  li.  241).  Cocaine  has  been  employed,  both  locally 
and  internally,  to  reinforce  the  anaesthesia  of  chloroform,  and  thereby  diminish  the 
vomiting  and  the  dangers  of  the  latter  agent  by  reducing  the  quantity  of  it  administered 
(Obalinski,  Centralbl.  f.  Therap.,  vii.  61).  It  has  been  employed  to  promote  a cure  of 
the  alcohol  habit,  and  also  of  the  opium  habit,  and  success  has  been  claimed  for  it  when 
it  was  administered  hypodermically  as  well  as  by  the  stomach.  But  Smidt  and  Rank 
(Med.  News,  xlvii.  454)  state  that  when  given  hypodermically,  even  in  doses  of  % gr.,  it 
sometimes  caused  maniacal  excitement.  It  would  seem  from  the  cases  above  cited  that 
this  effect  is  peculiarly  liable  to  occur  in  the  slaves  of  opium  and  alcohol.  Accurate 
observers  generally  agree  with  Erlenmeyer  and  Obersteiner  that  the  action  of  cocaine  is 
too  fugitive  to  be  permanently  useful  to  these  persons.  Moreover,  the  cocaine  habit  is 
not  less  hurtful  than  the  morphine  habit.  Mosler  claims  to  have  cured  a number  of 
cases  of  asthma  by  the  hypodermic  use  of  salicylate  of  cocaine.  As  coca  was  originally 
employed  to  prevent  or  relieve  excessive  fatigue , so  cocaine  has  been  found  to  counteract 


coccus. 


511 


the  exhaustion  experienced  by  loss  of  sleep  and  anxiety  ( Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour ., 
March,  1885,  p.  287)  ; but  it  may  be  doubted  whether  coffee  or  tea  would  not  have 
answered  equally  well.  It  has  also  been  known  to  dissipate  the  gloom  of  hypochondria 
due  to  mental  or  physical  causes  of  a temporary  sort.  In  chronic  melancholy  with 
delusions  it  is  useless.  If  the  diuretic  action  which  Drs.  DaCosta,  Penrose,  and  Bignon 
observed  should  be  confirmed  to  this  medicine,  it  may  be  added  to  the  several  remedies 
for  dropsy  and  other  disorders  depending  upon  debility  of  the  heart;  and  in  ursemia, 
with  scanty  secretion  of  urine,  it  may  be  worth  a trial. 

For  the  hypodermic  use  of  cocaine  a solution  of  from  2 to  10  per  cent,  should  be 
preferred,  and  as  a rule  the  equivalent  of  1 grain  only  administered  at  a time;  the 
punctures  should  not  be  made  very  close  together,  nor  in  an  inflamed  tissue,  nor 
into  a vein.  The  dose  should  be  smaller  in  females  and  children  and  in  persons 
with  diseased  heart.  When  a solution  is  applied,  the  part  should  be  cleansed  of 
any  secretion  or  deposit  it  may  hold.  For  this  purpose,  especially  in  operations  upon 
the  eye,  a solution  of  boric  acid,  1 : 26,  has  been  recommended.  The  strength  of  the 
solutions  of  cocaine  salts  employed  has  varied  greatly.  In  ophthalmic  surgery  a 4 per 
cent,  solution  is  the  most  usual  one,  and  it  should  be  instilled  at  intervals  of  three  or 
four  minutes  during  a quarter  of  an  hour.  The  portion  of  the  solution  used  should  be 
held  in  a vessel  apart,  to  prevent  contamination  of  the  body  of  the  liquid,  and  it  should 
be  applied  with  a dropping-tube  rather  than  with  a brush.  All  acid  solutions  are  to  be 
discarded.  Some  European  ophthalmic  surgeons  have  recommended  8—10  per  cent, 
solutions,  but  they  are  generally  unnecessary.  To  economize  and  concentrate  the  anes- 
thetic, small  disks,  either  of  filtering-paper  or  fine  linen  or  cotton  fabric,  or  of  gelatin, 
have  been  made  use  of.  The  last  have  been  made  each  to  hold  grain  of  cocaine 
muriate.  They  are  objectionable  from  their  liability  to  grow  mouldy.  In  Vienna  solu- 
tions applied  within  the  larynx  have  usually  had  a strength  of  from  15-20  per  cent.  A 
4 per  cent,  solution  in  almond  oil  has  been  used  to  annoint  urethral  instruments.  A 
vaseline  2 per  cent,  ointment  may  be  applied  with  advantage  to  the  eye  when  lachryma- 
tion  is  profuse.  It  is  alleged  (Corning)  that  by  compressing  the  veins  above  the  point 
at  which  the  solution  of  cocaine  is  employed  its  local  action  may  be  intensified  and  pro- 
longed. Absorbent  cotton  has  been  used  as  a vehicle  for  applying  solutions  of  cocaine. 

In  poisoning  by  cocaine,  nitrite  of  amyl  is  the  best  antidote,  but  chloroform  and  ether 
are  both  efficient ; chloral  is  less  so.  Ether  is  best  when  given  subcutaneously.  Strychnine 
has  proved  a physiological  antidote  to  chloral.  Ammonia  inhalation  and  caffeine  inter- 
nally have  also  been  used. 


COCCUS,  77.  S.,  Bv  — Cochineal. 

Coccionella. — Cochenille , Fr.,  Gr. ; Cochinilla , Sp. 

The  female  insect,  Coccus  cacti,  Linne. 

Class  Insecta  ; Order  Hemiptera. 

Origin  and  Collection. — The  cochineal  insect  is  indigenous  to  Mexico  and  Central 
America,  and  has  been  introduced  into  and  is  cultivated  in  some  of  the  West  Indian 
Islands,  the  Canaries,  Algiers,  and  Southern  Spain.  It  feeds  on  different  species  of  cactus, 
particularly  on  Opuntia  cochinillifera,  Miller , O.  ficus  indica,  Haworth , 

0.  Hernandezii,  I)e  Candolle,  and  others.  The  male  insect  is  very  small, 
has  the  rostrum  or  snout  in  the  breast,  twTo  large  wings,  and  the  red  IHV' 

body  terminated  by  two  long  bristles.  The  female  is  nearly  twice  as 
large,  is  furnished  with  a rostrum,  and  has  a bluish-red  body,  flattened 
below,  convex  above,  wingless,  and  without  terminal  bristles  ; they  attach 
themselves  firmly  to  the  plant,  wffiere  they  couple,  after  which  they  in- 
crease considerably  in  size  and  lay  several  thousand  eggs ; the  insect 
then  dies,  and  the  body  dries  up.  still  enclosing  the  eggs,  from  which  the 
young  soon  escape.  During  the  rainy  season  in  Mexico  the  insects  are 
kept  under  cover  upon  cactus-branches,  and  when  the  vreather  begins  to  be 
favorable  they  are  sov:n  upon  the  plants,  and  the  young  ones  allowed  to  develop  until  the 
females  become  fecundated  and  enlarged,  when  they  are  brushed  off  from  the  branches, 
killed  bv  dipping  them  into  hot  water,  and  aftenvard  dried  in  the  sun  or  near  a fire.  This 
process  yields  the  black  cochineal,  while  the  silver-gray  is  obtained  by  killing  and  drying 
the  insects  by  exposure  to  the  hot  sun  or  in  suitable  ovens.  Some  females  are  left  upon 
the  plants,  and  in  this  way  three  harvests  are  made  before  the  rainy  season  again  sets  in. 


Coccus  cacti : fe- 

male insect,  nat- 
ural size ; a , before, 
and  b,  c,  after,  im- 
pregnation ; dry, 
and  soaked  in  wa- 
ter. 


512 


COCHLEA  RIA. 


Description. — Commercial  cochineal  is  about  5 Mm.  (J  inch)  long,  nearly  hemi- 
spherical, somewhat  oblong  and  angular  in  outline,  convex  above,  flat  or  concave  on  the 
lower  side,  transversely  wrinkled,  readily  pulverizable,  yielding  a dark-red  powder  of  a 
faint  odor  and  slightly  bitterish  taste.  Immersed  in  water,  it  imparts  to  it  a red  color, 
and  swells  up  so  that  the  ringed  structure  of  the  insect  can  be  readily  examined.  There 
are  two  varieties  met  with  in  commerce — the  silver-gray  and  the  black.  The  former  is 
of  a purplish-gray,  the  latter  of  a purplish-black,  color ; it  differs  from  the  former  in  the 
absence  of  the  white  wool  from  the  furrows  between  the  rings  which  imparts  to  the  other 
kind  the  gray  color.  Gray  cochineal,  consisting  of  young  insects,  when  pure,  contains  a 
larger  amount  of  coloring-matter  than  the  black  variety.  An  inferior  kind,  called  gra- 
nilla  or  grana  sylvestra , consists  of  the  uncultivated,  mostly  very  small,  insects,  but  is 
rarely  seen  in  commerce.  The  United  States  import  annually  about  1,500,000  pounds 
of  cochineal. 

Adulterations. — Adulterated  cochineal  is  not  uncommon,  the  black  being  weighted 
with  black  lead,  ferro-ferric  oxide,  or  manganese  dioxide,  while  the  weight  of  the  silver- 
gray  variety  is  increased  by  barium  or  lead  salts,  talcum,  and  similar  substances.  The 
adulteration  is  now  effected  by  exposing  the  cochineal  to  steam  until  the  insects  have 
attained  their  normal  size  without  becoming  wet,  adding  the  powder,  rotating  the  mixture 
in  a drum,  and  finally  drying  by  heat,  when  the  adulterant  will  adhere  between  the 
wrinkles.  Or  an  inferior  quality  of  cochineal,  moistened  with  warm  water,  is  superficially 
colored  by  a mixture  of  barium  sulphate  or  lead  carbonate  and  ivory-black.  Such  frauds 
are  readily  detected  by  macerating  some  of  the  insects  in  water,  when  the  powder  is 
soaked  off  and  the  insect  may  be  examined,  or  the  cochineal  is  incinerated  and  the 
adulterant  determined  in  the  ash. 

Factitious  cochineal  is  said  to  have  been  occasionally  met  with,  and  to  have  been  made 
of  gums,  starch,  and  various  coloring  and  mineral  matters. 

A similar  product  is  the  kermes,  chermes , or  alkermes , which  consists  of  the  fully- 
developed  females  of  Coccus  ilicis,  Fabricius , indigenous  to  the  basin  of  the  Mediter- 
ranean and  living  upon  Quercus  coccifera,  Linne.  By  moistening  with  vinegar  and 
drying  in  the  sun  they  acquire  a brown-red  color.  They  are  of  the  size  of  a pea,  nearly 
globular,  almost  smooth,  yield  a carmine-colored  powder,  and  produce  with  tin  salt,  like 
cochineal,  a fine  scarlet-red. 

Constituents. — Besides  fat,  about  6 per  cent,  of  moisture,  a small  amount  of  volatile 
acid,  mucilaginous  and  glutinous  compounds,  cochineal  contains  carminic  acid , C]7H18Oi0, 
which  Belhomme  believes  to  be  also  met  with  in  the  blossoms  of  Monarda  didyma.  It 
is  readily  soluble  in  water,  alkalies,  and  alcohol,  little  in  ether,  and  insoluble  in  the  fixed 
and  volatile  oils.  I*ts  alcoholic  solution  is  precipitated  by  alkalies,  but  the  crimson  color 
of  its  aqueous  solution  is  succeeded  by  a purplish-red  and  precipitated  on  the  addition  of 
alkaline  earth.  Most  metallic  salts  yield  colored  precipitates  with  it ; the  deposit  with 
aluminum  hydroxide  is  called  lake.  On  incineration  pure  cochineal  leaves  0.5  (J.  Loewe, 
1882),  3 to  6 per  cent.  (01.  Mene,  1869)  of  ash  ; the  British  Pharmacopoeia  requires  the 
ash  to  weigh  not  much  more  than  3 per  cent.,  and  the  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia  not  more 
than  5 per  cent.  When  decoctions  of  cochineal  containing  a little  alum,  cream  of  tartar, 
or  salt  of  sorrel  are  set  aside,  they  will  deposit  carmine , which  in  commerce  is  often 
found  adulterated  with  starch  and  other  substances ; pure  carmine  should  be  entirely 
soluble  in  ammonia-water. 

Action  and  Uses. — It  is  very  doubtful  if  cochineal  possesses  any  medicinal  vir- 
tues. It  has  indeed  been  reputed  to  be  stimulant,  antispasmodic,  and  diuretic,  and  cases 
are  not  wanting,  especially  of  whooping  cough  and  neuralgia , to  prove  its  curative  virtues. 
In  Australia  the  medicine  is  alleged  to  have  been  efficacious  during  an  epidemic  of  the 
former  disease.  Gm.  0.06  (a  grain)  was  given  for  every  year  of  the  patient  up  to  Gm. 
0.50  (8  grains)  for  adults  ( Times  and  Gaz .,  Apr.  1877,  p.  418).  The  beautiful  carmine 
color  which  it  imparts  to  various  medicinal  preparations  is  its  only  substantial  title  to  a 
place  in  the  Pharmacopoeia. 

COCHLEARIA.— Scurvy-Grass. 

Herba  cochlear  /as,  P.  G. — Spoonwort , E.  ; Cochlearia,  Ilerbe  au  scorbut,  Fr.  Cod  ; Lbffd- 
kra.ut , G. ; Coclear ia,  F.  It.,  Sp. 

Cochlearia  officinalis,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Cruciferae,  Allyssineae. 

Description, — A native  of  Northern  and  Central  Europe,  where  it  grows  in  saline 


COCHLEARTA. 


513 


soil  and  is  occasionally  cultivated,  having  the  radical  leaves  on  long  petioles,  roundish, 
heart-shaped,  or  almost  reniform,  very  obtuse  and  nearly  entire ; the  stem-leaves  ovate 
with  few  angular  teeth,  the  lower  ones  petiolate,  the  upper  ones  clasping;  the  flowers 
white,  in  terminal  racemes  ; the  pods  globular-ovate  ascending,  slightly  flattened  laterally, 
and  containing  four  red-brown  seeds  in  each  cell.  The  fresh  plant  is  pungent,  acrid,  and 
bitterish. 

Constituents. — The  plant  has  been  analyzed  by  Tordeux,  Braconnot,  Gutret,  Wink- 
ler, Geiseler.  and  others;  it  contains  tannin,  bitter  principle,  salts,  and  other  common 
principles,  and  yields  a volatile  oil  which  does  not  pre-exist  in  the  tissues,  and,  according 
•to  A.  W.  Hofmann,  is  butylsulphocyanide,  CSN.C4H9 ; its  ammonia  compound  melts  at 
135°  C.  (275°  F.).  An  oil  obtained  synthetically  from  butylamine  had  the  composition 
of  oil  of  scurvy-grass,  but  a different  odor,  and  yielded  an  ammonia  compound  fusing  at 
90°  C.  (192°  F.). 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Spiritus  cochleari.®,  P.  G.  Macerate  8 parts  of  bruised 
fresh  flowering  scurvy-grass  in  3 parts  each  of  alcohol  and  water,  and  distil  off  4 parts. 

Allied  Plants. — The  following  Cruciferae  (see  also  Armoracia  and  Sinapis)  have  sensible 
properties  similar  to  those  of  the  preceding  plant,  and  have  been  occasionally  used  for  similar 
purposes : 

Cardamine  pratensis,  Linnt  (tribe  Arabideae)  ; Herba  nasturtii  pratensis. — Cuckoo-flower, 
E. ; Cresson  des  pres,  Fr. ; Wiesenkresse,  Kukukskraut,  G. — A perennial  plant,  rather  scarce  in 
North  America  from  New  Jersey  northward,  more  common  in  Europe  and  Northern  Asia. 
Leaves  pinnate,  with  7 to  13  leaflets,  the  terminal  one  being  nearly  reniform,  and  the  lateral  ones 
either  short-stalked  and  roundish  or  linear  and  mostly  entire ; flowers  showy,  white  or  rose- 
colored  ; pods  linear,  flattish,  and  veinless ; taste  pungent  and  bitterish,  due  to  a volatile  oil. 

Cardamine  hirsuta,  Linne. — Small  bitter-cress,  common  in  Europe  and  North  America; 
resembles  the  preceding,  but  is  smaller ; has  small  white  flowers  and  slender,  ascending  pods. 

Card,  amara,  Linnt. — Bitter-cress,  indigenous  to  Europe,  has  pinnate  leaves,  with  seven  or 
nine  roundish-ovate,  stalked  leaflets,  showy  white  flowers,  and  purplish-blue  anthers.  It  is  less 
pungent  and  more  bitter. 

Barbarea  vulgaris,  R.  Brown. — Wintercress,  Yellow  scurvy-grass,  E. ; Ilerbe  de  Sainte- 
Barbe,  Fr. ; Winterkresse,  G. — This  biennial  herb,  like  the  very  similar  Bar.  prsecox,  R.  Brown , 
is  sometimes  cultivated  for  salad,  and  is  common  in  Europe  and  North  America  ; it  has  lyrate 
leaves,  with  large  round  or  ovate  sometimes  heart-shaped  terminal  lobes,  the  upper  leaves  obovate, 
toothed  ; flowers  numerous,  yellow  ; pods  somewhat  spreading. 

Dentaria. — Pepper-root,  Tooth  wort,  E. ; Dentaire,  Fr. ; Zahnwurz,  G. — The  rhizomes  have  a 
very  pungent  taste,  and  are  cylindrical  in  D.  diphylla,  Linnt  (North  America),  and  D.  bulbifera, 
Linnt  (Europe),  but  composed  of  several  tubers  in  D.  enneaphylla,  Linnt  (Europe),  and  in  the 
North  American  species,  D.  maxima,  Nuttall , D.  heterophylla,  Nuttall , and  I).  laciniata,  Muhlen- 
berg. 

Nasturtium  officinale,  R.  Broicn,  s.  Sisymbrium  Nasturtium,  Linnt. — Watercress,  E.;  Cres- 
son de  fontaine,  Fr.  Cod. ; Brunnenkresse,  G. ; Crescione,  F.  I.  ; Berro,  Sp. — This  perennial  herb 
grows  near  springs  and  brooks  throughout  a large  portion  of  the  northern  hemisphere,  has  spread- 
ing, angular,  hollow  stems,  and  pinnate  leaves  with  obliquely  ovate  or  roundish  leaflets,  the  ter- 
minal one  being  largest  and  rather  wedge-shaped  at  the  base  ; the  white  flowers  are  in  racemes, 
and  the  pods  are  linear  and  on  spreading  pedicles.  The  fresh  plant  is  somewhat  pungent  and 
bitterish,  and  yields  a sulphuretted  volatile  oil,  probably  identical  with  that  of  mustard. 

Nast.  palustre,  De  Candolle. — Marsh-cress,  with  oblong  or  ovoid  pods,  pinnatifid  toothed 
leaves,  and  small  yellow  flowers,  has  similar  properties,  and  grows  in  wet  places. 

Anastatica  hierochuntica,  Linnt , an  annual  plant  of  the  Levant,  where  it  is  in  high  repute  as 
a medicine,  is  occasionally  seen  as  a curiosity.  After  the  seeds  are  ripe  the  branches  become 
woody  and  curl  inward,  forming  a kind  of  ball,  which  when  soaked  in  water  unfolds  like  a flower  ; 
hence  the  popular  name,  rose  of  Jericho. 

Sisymbrium  (Erysimum,  Limit)  Alliaria,  Scopoli , s.  Alliaria  officinalis,  Andrews  (tribe  Sisym- 
bryeae). — Hedge-garlic,  E. ; Alliaire  commune,  Fr. ; Knoblauchkraut,  G. — Pless  (1846)  obtained 
from  the  herb  and  seeds  a mixture  of  mustard  and  garlic  oil,  to  which  the  alliaceous  odor  is  due  ; 
they  contain  also  a bitter  principle. 

Sisymbrium  (Erysimum,  Limit)  officinale,  Scopoli. — Hedge-mustard,  E. ; Erysimum,  V61ar, 
Herbe  aux  chantres,  Tortelle,  Fr.  Cod.  ; Wilder  Senf,  Hederich,  G. ; Erisimo,  Sp. — A common 
annual  herb  with  runcinate  leaves,  small  yellow  flowers  in  terminal  spicate  racemes,  and  linear 
appressed  pods.  The  seeds  have  a sharp  mustard-like  taste,  and  yield  oil  of  mustard  ; the  herb 

is  milder. 

Capsella  (Thlaspi,  IAnnt ),  Bursa  pastoris,  Moench  (tribe  Lepidineae). — Shepherd;s  purse,  E. ; 
Bourse  & pasteur,  Molette,  Fr. ; Hirtent'aschlein,  G. — A native  of  Europe,  but  extensively  nat- 
uralized in  most  civilized  countries.  Root-leaves  clustered,  more  or  less  deeply  serrate  or  pin- 
natifid; stem-leaves  arrow-shaped,  sessile;  flowers  numerous,  small,  white,  in  terminal  corymbs, 
which  become  much  elongated ; fruit  a triangular  obcordate  flattened  pouch,  containing  numer- 
ous minute  brown  seeds.  It  flowers  from  early  in  spring  to  autumn,  and  has,  particularly  in 
summer,  an  acrid  and  bitter  taste.  Daubrawa  (1854)  found  in  the  herb,  besides  the  ordinary  con- 
stituents of  herbs,  6 per  cent,  of  soft  resin,  a little  sulphuretted  volatile  oil,  and  9 per  cent,  of 


514 


CODE  IN  A. 


ash.  The  volatile  oil  obtained  from  the  seeds  was  proven  by  F.  Pless  (1846)  to  be  identical  with 
oil  of  mustard.  Mulder  (1858)  obtained  from  the  seeds  28.8  per  cent,  of  fixed  oil  and  26.5  per 
cent,  of  protein  compounds. 

Lepidium  sativum,  Linne. — Garden  cress,  Pepper-grass,  E. ; Cresson  alenois,  Cresson  des 
jardins,  Fr. ; Gartenkresse,  G. — This  annual  is  indigenous  to  Western  Asia,  and  is  frequently 
cultivated  for  salad.  The  bitterish  and  slightly  acrid  herb  and  seeds,  like  those  of  Lep.  ruderale, 
Linn6,  and  Lep.  campestre,  Linne , contain  myrosin,  but,  according  to  Pless,  not  myronic  acid ; 
they  yield,  however,  a sulphuretted  volatile  oil  which  dissolves  in  sulphuric  acid  with  a red  color. 
Lep.  virginicum,  Linne , and  Lep.  intermedium,  Gray , the  wild  pepper-grasses  of  North  America, 
probably  yield  a similar  volatile  oil. 

Lepidium  Iberis,  Linn£. — Pepper-grass,  E. ; Passerage  iberide,  Fr. ; Iberiskresse,  Pfeffer- 
kraut,  G. — This  plant  is  found  from  Southern  Europe  to  Siberia ; has  a branching  stem  about  2 
feet  high ; petiolate,  pinnatifid,  or  incisely  serrate  radical  leaves  about  5 Cm.  (2  inches)  long ; 
smaller  linear-lanceolate  or  linear  entire  somewhat  grass-like  stem-leaves,  and  minute  white 
flowers  in  racemose  cymes ; the  fruit  is  small,  ovate,  and  acute.  The  plant  is  smooth  and  rather 
glaucous,  and  has  a pungent  taste,  due  to  a sulphuretted  volatile  oil.  Leroux  (1837)  obtained 
from  the  flowering-tops  and  seeds  an  amorphous  bitter  principle  which  he  named  lepidin. 

The  broad-leaved  pepperwort,  Lepidium  latifolium,  Linn6,  has  similar  properties. 

Thlaspi  arvense,  Linnt,  and  Thl.  campestris,  LinnS (tribe  Thlaspidese). — Pennycress,  Mithri- 
date  mustard,  E. ; Thlaspi  champetre,  Fr. ; Bauernsenf,  Feldkresse,  G. — The  small,  compressed, 
roughish,  brown  seeds  have  an  acrid  alliaceous  taste,  and  yield  a volatile  oil  which  Pless  found 
to  be  a mixture  of  the  oils  of  garlic  and  mustard. 

Besides  the  plants  named  above,  the  following  more  or  less  pungent  plants  are  likewise  known 
as  cress,  namely : 

Wart-cress  or  swine-cress , Senebiera  didyma,  Persoon ; wall-cress  or  rock-cress , Arabis  lyrata, 
Linn£,  of  the  order  Cruciferae;  and  Para  cress , Spilanthes  oleracea,  Jacquin , order  Composite. 
The  well-known  garden  plants  Tropseolum  majus  and  Tr.  minus,  Linn£,  order  Geraniaceae,  are 
indigenous  to  Peru,  and  known  as  Indian  cress  or  garden  nasturtium,  E. ; Cresson  des  Indes, 
Capucine,  Fr. ; Kapuzinerkresse,  G. ; Mastuerzo,  Sp.  ; the  buds  and  unripe  fruits  are  sometimes 
used  like  capers. 

V 

Action  and  Uses. — Common  scurvy-grass  is  stimulant,  diuretic,  and  antiscor- 
butic, in  virtue  chiefly  of  its  acrid  essential  oil.  Its  bitter  principle  also  contributes 
to  its  medicinal  qualities.  When  chewed  it  excites  the  secretion  of  saliva,  and  when 
swallowed  a sense  of  warmth  in  the  stomach ; it  also  tends  to  relax  the  bowels.  It  is 
everywhere  eaten  as  a salad,  generally  mixed  with  water-cresses,  and  has  great  popular 
reputation  as  a purifier  of  the  blood.  It  is  justly  celebrated  for  its  efficacy  in  scurvy , and 
is  either  eaten  fresh,  which  is  preferable,  or  its  expressed  juice  is  administered.  It  has 
also  been  used  with  reputed  advantage  in  scrofula , chronic  intermittent  fever,  and  dropsy 
depending  upon  the  latter  disease.  Externally,  the  bruised  herb  has  been  applied  in 
poultices  to  stimulate  scrofulous  and  other  atonic  ulcers;  and  the  juice,  diluted  with 
water,  has  been  used  as  a mouth-wash  for  spongy  gums  and  ulcers  of  the  mouth. 

Shepherd’s  purse  is  astringent,  acrid,  and  aromatic.  The  herb  and  the  seeds  were 
anciently  employed  as  stimulants  to  promote  menstruation,  and  more  recently  in  dysury, 
diarrhoea,  dysentery,  and  intermittent  fever.  It  is  also  credited  with  haemostatic  powers  in 
various  hsemorrhages  ( Lancet , June,  1889,  p.  1157).  It  is  administered  in  an  infusion, 
Gm.  32  to  Gm.  400  (^j-^xij),  reduced  by  heat  to  Gm.  250,  or  half  a pint;  a wine-glass- 
ful may  be  given  at  a dose. 

Iberis  was  known  to  the  ancients,  who  employed  it  as  a rubefacient  in  rheumatic  and 
other  local  affections.  Pliny  ascribes  the  discovery  of  its  virtues  to  a certain  physician 
named  Damocrates.  Even  in  recent  times  its  powdered  seeds  were  incorporated  in  an 
ointment  for  purposes  like  those  above  mentioned.  Internally,  it  is  said  to  have  acted  as 
an  irritant,  producing  nausea  and  diarrhoea,  and  to  have  been  useful  in  bronchitis , dropsy, 
gravel,  squamous  skin  diseases,  and  intermittent  fever.  It  is  one  of  the  numerous  plants 
popularly  known  as  purifiers  of  the  blood,  and  with  this  belief  is  eaten  as  a salad  in  the 
spring.  Cardamine  and  Nasturtium  have  analogous  virtues.  The  former  is  also  reputed 
to  be  vulnerary  and  antiscorbutic,  and  some  of  its  allied  plants  (e.  g.  Sisymbrium)  have 
been  applied  to  cancerous  and  other  sores  and  given  internally  for  laryngeal  and  bron- 
chial catarrhs. 


CODEINA,  V.  S.,  Br F.  Cod.— Codeine. 

Codeinum. — Codeia Methyl  morphine,  E. ; Codeine , Fr. ; Codein , Kodein,  G. ; Codeina, 
It.,  Sp. 

Formula  C18H21N03.H20.  Molecular  weight  316.31. 

An  alkaloid  prepared  from  opium. 


CODEIN  A. 


515 


Origin. — Codeine  is  one  of  the  constituents  of  opium,  and  was  discovered  by  Robiquet 
in  1832.  Grimaux  (1881)  succeeded  in  preparing  it  artificially  by  heating  an  alcoholic 
solution  of  morphine  with  soda  and  methyl  iodide,  thus  showing  that  codeine  is  the  methyl 
ether  of  morphine. 

Preparation. — In  preparing  morphine  by  Gregory’s  process  (see  Morphina),  after 
precipitating  with  calciuni  chloride,  the  chlorides  of  morphine  and  codeine  crystallize 
together,  and  on  redissolving  them  in  water  and  adding  ammonia,  morphine  alone  is  pre- 
cipitated. The  ammoniacal  filtrate  is  concentrated,  the  crystallizing  codeine  chloride  freed 
from  ammonium  chloride,  then  dissolved  in  hot  water,  and  decomposed  by  potassa,  when 
a portion  of  the  codeine  will  crystallize  on  cooling,  but  the  greater  part  separate  as  an 
oily  liquid,  which  gradually  solidifies.  The  mother-liquor  yields  a further  quantity  of 
the  same  alkaloid,  contaminated  with  some  morphine.  The  alkaloid  is  washed  with  cold 
water,  then  dissolved  in  ether,  the  ethereal  solution  mixed  with  water,  and  evaporated  to 
crystallize. 

Properties. — Codeine  is  in  white  or  nearly  translucent,  rhombic  prisms  or  octa- 
hedral crystals,  somewhat  efflorescent  in  warm  air,  odorless,  having  a slightly  bitter  taste 
and  neutral  reaction  to  litmus-paper,  soluble  in  80  parts  of  water  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.) 
and  in  17  parts  of  boiling  water,  soluble  in  3 parts  alcohol  and  in  2 parts  chloroform  ; 
also  soluble  in  30  parts  of  ether  and  in  10  parts  of  benzene,  but  almost  insoluble  in  ben- 
zin.  When  heated  to  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  codeine  loses  its  water  of  crystallization, 
amounting  to  5.67  per  cent.  It  melts  in  boiling  water  to  a transparent  oily  liquid,  but 
when  heated  alone  it  fuses  at  155°  C.  (311°  F.).  and  on  ignition  is  completely  dissipated. 
“ Codeine  is  dissolved  by  cold  concentrated  sulphuric  acid  (free  from  nitrous)  without 
producing  a color.  If  about  2 Cc.  of  this  solution  are  poured  into  a small  porcelain  cap- 
sule, and  1 drop  of  highly  diluted  nitric  acid  (made  by  adding  1 drop  of  nitric  acid  to 
100  Cc.  of  water)  added,  a bluish  or  blue  tint  will  be  developed.  Another  portion  of 
this  solution,  of  about  2 Cc.,  gently  warmed,  and  mixed  with  1 drop  of  a mixture  of  1 
volume  of  ferric  chloride  test-solution  and  19  volumes  of  water,  likewise  assumes  a bluish 
or  blue  tint  (difference  from  morphine).  On  adding  to  5 Cc.  of  an  aqueous  solution  of 
codeine  (1  in  100)  10  drops  of  bromine-water,  and  shaking  so  as  to  redissolve  the  pre- 
cipitate formed,  the  liquid  will  gradually  develop  a light  claret-red  tint.  This  tint  may 
be  developed  at  once  by  the  addition  of  ammonia-water.  On  sprinkling  0.05  Gm.  of 
codeine  upon  2 Cc.  of  nitric  acid  (spec,  grav.  1.200),  the  crystals  will  turn  red,  but  the 
acid,  even  when  warmed,  will  acquire  only  a yellow  color  (difference  from  and  absence 
of  morphine).” — U.  S.  Codeine  crystallizes  readily  from  its  solutions,  the  crystals,  fre- 
quently rhombic  octahedrons,  being  of  considerable  size  when  slowly  formed.  In  addi- 
tion to  the  solvents  mentioned  above,  the  alkaloid  dissolves  freely  in  amylic  alcohol, 
methylic  alcohol,  and  carbon  disulphide,  and  in  about  85  parts  of  ammonia-water,  but  is 
nearly  insoluble  in  potassa  and  soda.  Its  aqueous  solution  produces  precipitates  in  solu- 
tions of  the  salts  of  iron,  copper,  lead,  and  other  metals.  Codeine  does  not  separate 
iodine  from  iodic  acid,  and  is  not  colored  blue  by  ferric  chloride  (difference  from  mor- 
phine). Its  solution  in  absolutely  pure  sulphuric  acid  remains  colorless  for  several  days, 
but  on  heating  to  150°  C.  (302°  F.)  becomes  brown-green,  and  after  cooling  reddish  ; in 
the  presence  of  traces  of  nitric  acid  or  of  iron  the  cold  solution  gradually  changes  to 
green  and  blue,  and  deposits  a blue  precipitate.  Erdmann1  s reagent , used  for  this  test, 
consists  of  20  Gm.  of  pure  sulphuric  acid  and  10  drops  of  a mixture  made  with  6 drops 
of  nitric  acid  spec.  grav.  1.25  and  100  Gm.  of  water.  Codeine  is  dissolved  by  sulphuric 
acid  containing  sodium  molybdate  ( Frohde's  reagent)  to  a liquid  having  at  first  a dirty- 
green  color,  which  after  a while  becomes  pure  blue,  and  gradually  fades  within  a few 
hours  to  pale  yellow.  For  the  testing  of  alkaloids  Frohde's  reagent  is  best  prepared  by 
adding  1 Mg.  of  sodium  molybdate  to  1 Cc.  of  pure  sulphuric  acid.  The  yellow  solu- 
tion of  codeine  in  nitric  acid  when  heated  contains  nitro-codeine , C18H.20(NO2)NO3. 
Codeine  yields  with  chlorine-water  a colorless  solution,  which  changes  to  red  brown  on 
the  addition  of  ammonia.  If  codeine  is  added  to  a solution  of  a morphine  salt,  precipi- 
tation of  morphine  occurs,  and  if  the  former  alkaloid  in  powder  be  added  to  a solution  of 
ammonium  chloride,  solution  takes  place  and  the  odor  of  ammonia  becomes  perceptible. 

Salt  of  Codeine. — Codeinum  phosphoricum,  P.  G. — Codeine  phosphate,  E.  ; phos- 
phate de  codeine,  Fr. ; Kodeinphosphat,  G. — This  forms  white,  bitter  needles,  which  are 
very  soluble  in  water,  and  difficultly  soluble  in  alcohol.  At  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  it  loses 
about  8 per  cent.  It  should  show  the  reactions  both  of  codeine,  given  above,  and  of 
phosphoric  acid. 

Action  and  Uses. — Codeine  is  generally  represented  as  exerting  a special  influence 


516 


COLCHICUM. 


upon  the  sympathetic  nerve.  Its  action  seems  to  vary  greatly  with  its  dose  and  mode  of 
administration.  Given  to  man  in  the  dose  of  1|  grains,  it  may  create  marked  gastric 
disturbance,  congestion  of  the  head,  dulness  of  the  mind,  and  tremor ; hut  in  the  dose 
of  J grain  it  usually  produces  calm  and  refreshing  sleep,  and  does  not  cause  sweating, 
eruptions  on  the  skin,  nausea,  vomiting,  or  constipation.  In  the  case  of  a child  affected 
with  diabetes  and  albuminuria  it  occasioned  an  inert  and  drowsy  condition  (St.  Bari's 
Hosp.  Rep.,  xv.  224).  It  is  probable  that  the  preparation  is  not  of  uniform  strength  or 
purity,  and  that  it  may  sometimes  contain  morphine. 

Codeine  has  been  chiefly  employed  to  allay  sleeplessness , restlessness , cough , and  other 
symptoms  for  which  opium  is  generally  prescribed  and  when  the  latter  medicine  is  not 
tolerated.  In  phthisis  it  seems  to  appease  the  cough  without  deranging  the  digestion 
(Fischer,  Ther.  Gaz.,  xiii.  40).  In  like  manner  it  has  been  found  to  lessen  the  irrita- 
bility of  the  stomach  in  cancer  of  that  organ.  In  diabetes  it  has  been  recommended, 
especially  upon  the  ground  that  it  does  not  produce  the  narcotic  effects  of  opium  or  mor- 
phine ( Edinb . Med.  Jour.,  xvii.  461).  But  it  is  well  known  that  in  that  disease  narcotism 
is  not  apt  to  be  produced  by  those  remedies.  Apparently  under  the  use  of  codeine  and 
an  appropriate  regimen  diabetes  may  be  greatly  benefited  in  some  instances,  but  in  quite 
as  many  it  entirely  fails.  Its  power  of  diminishing  the  urine  and  its  saccharine  contents 
appears  sometimes  to  be  marked  (St.  George  s Hosp.  Rep.,  ix.  679).  Bruce  (. Practitioner , 
xl.  1)  has  shown  that  in  diabetes  morphine  is  “ unquestionably  the  more  powerful  of  the 
two  drugs,”  even  in  one-fourth  of  the  dose  of  codeine  ; and  Fraser  (British  Med.  Jour., 
Jan.,  1889,  p.  118)  concluded  that  in  this  disease  codeine  is  nothing  more  than  a weak 
or  diluted  morphine.  Such  efficacy  as  it  possesses  is  exhibited  in  simple  as  well  as  in 
saccharine  diabetes.  It  has  been  used  as  an  anodyne  and  antispasmodic  in  several  diseases 
attended  with  paroxysmal  pain  or  disordered  muscular  action.  Beurmann,  who  used  it 
internally  and  hypodermically  in  neuralgia  and  rheumatism  in  doses  of  from  to  1 grain, 
saw  no  effects  produced  by  it,  and  his  statement  was  confirmed  by  Yvon  (Bull,  de  Therap ., 
cvi.  496,  548).  Brunton  found  ( Practitioner , xli.  49)  that  in  the  dose  of  from  J grain 
to  1 grain  it  was  distinctly  anodyne,  without  being  soporific  or  constipating,  in  various 
painful  diseases  of  the  abdomen , including  obstruction , organic  disease,  enter algia,  etc.  This 
observation  has  been  confirmed  and  extended  by  Freund  (Therap.  Monatsh.,  iii.  399),  and 
Lowenmeyer  (ibid.  iv.  207),  but  it  is  agreed  that  it  is  inferior  to  morphine  as  an  analgesic. 
Codeine  has  been  employed  with  advantage  as  a substitute  for  opium  or  morphine  in  the 
treatment  of  the  opium  habit.  The  dose  may  be  stated  at  about  Gm.  0.03  (i  grain),  to 
be  gradually  increased  according  to  its  effects.  It  may  be  given  in  pill,  powder,  mixture, 
or  in  suppositories.  In  a case  of  diabetes,  above  referred  to,  the  daily  dose  attained  to 
from  10  to  15  grains.  The  muriate  and  the  sulphate  of  codeine  may  be  given  in  similar 
doses.  One-sixth  of  a grain  has  often  been  administered  hypodermically.  A phosphate 
of  codeine  has  been  prepared  whose  solubility  and  unirritating  quality  adapt  it  to  hypo- 
dermic use.  Its  dose  is  said  to  be  about  double  that  of  the  morphine  salts. 

COLCHICUM,  U.  S.,  Br.,  B.  ^.—Colchicum. 

Meadow-saffron,  E. ; Colchique , Safran  batard,  Fr. ; Herbstzeitlose , Wiesensafran,  G. ; 
Colchico , It.,  Sp. 

The  corm  and  seeds  of  Colchicum  autumnale,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med. 
Plants,  287. 

Nat.  Ord. — Liliaceae. 

Official  Parts. — 1.  Colchici  radix,  U.  S. ; Colchici  cormus,  Br. ; Bulbus,  s. 
Tuber  colchici. — Colchicum-root  or  corm,  E. ; Bulbe  de  colchique,  Fr. ; Zeitlosen- 
knollen,  G. 

The  corm  (tuber). 

2.  Colchici  semen,  U.  S. ; Colchici  semina,  Br.;  Semen  colchici,  P G. — Colchicum- 
seed,  E. ; Semences  de  colchique,  Fr. ; Zeitlosensamen,  G. 

The  seeds. 

Origin. — The  plant  is  indigenous  to  Europe,  in  the  southern  and  central  parts  of  which 
it  is  frequently  found  in  pastures  and  meadows,  flowering  in  September  or  October  and 
ripening  its  seeds  in  June  following.  In  the  autumn  the  subterraneous  portion  consists 
of  the  fully-developed  tuber  (corm  of  many  writers),  bearing  at  its  apex  the  scar  left  by 
the  fruit-stem  of  the  preceding  summer.  A tuft  of  root-fibres  is  attached  to  a lateral 
projection  of  the  base,  above  which  there  is  a shallow  groove  running  to  the  apex  of  the 
tuber.  In  the  lower  part  is  a short  conical  axis  with  three  or  four  rudimentary  leaves, 


COLCHICUM. 


517 


and  bearing  upon  the  apex  one  or  more  flowers,  with  the  lower  part  of  their  long  perianth- 
tubes  resting  in  the  groove.  The  whole  is  surrounded  by  a few  brown  leaves,  forming  a 
sheath  above.  After  flowering  the  tuber  gradually  diminishes  in  size,  until  by  the  fol- 
lowing summer  it  is  completely  absorbed  and  decayed.  In  the  mean  time  the  upper 
internode  of  the  short  conical  axis  is  gradually  developed  into  a stem  rising  above 
ground  with  the  capsules,  ^and  at  the  base  is  enlarged  to  an  ovoid  fleshy  tuber,  as  yet 
without  the  lateral  groove,  but  showing  in  the  lower  axil  the  bud,  which  by  the  following 
autumn  will  be  developed  into  a short  conical  flowering  axis,  while  in  the  mean  time  the 
lateral  groove  on  the  fruit-bearing  tuber  will  have  been  formed.  The  development  and 
duration  of  the  tuber  embrace,  accordingly,  a period  of  2 years,  in  the  first  half  of  which 
the  tuber  produces  flowers  and  fruit,  and  afterward  serves  for  developing  and  nourishing 
its  successor. 

The  flowers  resemble  those  of  crocus,  have  a whitish  tube  about  12.5  Cm.  (5  inches) 
long,  and  a six-parted  pale  lilac  or  rose-colored  border.  The  ovary  remains  under- 
ground during  the  winter,  and  is  afterward  formed  into  an  obtusely-triangular,  oblong- 
ovate,  and  inflated  capsule,  which  is  three-celled,  bears  the  numerous  seeds  in  the  centre, 
and  is  surrounded  by  four  or  five  linear  lanceolate  leaves.  The  tubers  are  collected  in 
July  and  August,  before  the  appearance  of  the  flowers  ; but  Schroff  (1856),  and  after- 
ward Maclagan,  concluded  from  physiological  experiments  the  proper  time  for  the  collec- 
tion to  be  the  period  of  flowering  and  immediately  afterward. 

Description. — 1.  The  Tuber.  It  preserves  its  properties  best  if  dried  entire  by 
exposure  to  the  sun  and  air,  and  is  then  of  an  ovoid  shape,  25  to  38  Mm.  (1  to  11  inches) 
long,  and  nearly  as  thick  at  the  thickest  portion,  convex  on  one  side,  flattened,  and  with  a 


Fig.  78. 


Tuber  of  Colchicuui. 


Fig.  79. 


Colchicuui ; transverse  section. 


groove  on  the  other.  After  the  removal  of  the  brown  membranous  teguments  the  sur- 
face is  of  a brownish  or  ash  color,  longitudinally  wrinkled  and  internally  white.  In  our 
commerce  it  is  usually  met  with  in  transverse  slices  about  3 Mm.  (1  inch)  in  thickness, 
somewhat  reniform  in  shape,  and  notched  on  one  side,  of  a white  mealy  appearance,  and 
breaking  with  a short  and  mealy  fracture.  In  the  fresh  state  it  has  a radish-like  odor, 
which  is  completely  lost  on  drying.  The  taste  is  sweetish,  then  bitter  and  somewhat 
acrid.  The  tissue  is  formed  of  regular  parenchyma,  filled  with  more  or  less  angular, 
mostly  compound  starch-granules,  and  of  rather  delicate  scattered  fibro-vascular  bundles 
with  spiral  ducts.  The  Pharmacopaeia  of  1880  directed  colchicum-tubers  exhibiting  a 
blackish  color  upon  the  recent  fracture  to  be  rejected.  From  the  investigations  of  T.  F. 
Beckert  (1877),  however,  it  appears  that  the  amount  of  colchicine  is  scarcely  influenced 
by  the  color,  but  decreases  in  old  colchicum-root.  In  the  present  revision  this  require- 
ment is  not  made. 

The  Oriental  hermodactyls  resemble  this  tuber,  but  have  a smooth  surface,  and  vary 
in  color  between  whitish  and  blackish,  and  in  taste  between  insipid 
and  bitter.  They  have  been  referred  to  Colch.  variegatum,  Linni , 
which  is  found  in  Southern  Europe  and  Asia  Minor,  but  are  prob- 
ably obtained  from  different  species  indigenous  to  Asia.  Orphanides 
(1875)  enumerates  not  less  than  forty -three  distinct  species. 

2.  The  Seeds.  They  are  about  2 Mm.  (J^  inch)  in  diameter, 
nearly  spherical,  slightly  pointed  at  the  hiluin  by  a crest-like 
appendage,  of  a reddish-brown  color,  finely  pitted,  somewhat 
glutinous  when  fresh,  and  with  a powdery  surface  when  older. 

They  are  entirely  inodorous,  and  have  a bitter,  acrid  taste.  The 
finely-punctate  testa  adheres  closely  to  the  whitish-thick  horny 
albumen,  which  renders  the  seeds  very  difficult  to  powder,  and  encloses  a very  small 
embryo  nearly  opposite  the  hilum. 


Fig.  80. 


Colchicum-seed : a,  natu- 
ral size ; b,  section  mag- 
nified. 


518 


COLCHICUM. 


The  powdering  is  effected  by  grinding  them  in  a mill  with  hardened  plates;  or  if  done 
in  a mortar  they  should  be  well  dried,  or  else  previously  soaked  in  the  menstruum  to 
be  used  for  exhaustion,  and  while  still  moist  crushed  beneath  the  pestle  in  small  quan- 
tities. Rosen wasser  (1877)  proved  that  unbroken  colchicum-seeds  yield  to  solvents  less 
than  one-third  the  amount  of  colchicine  contained  in  them  ; Hiibler’s  observation,  that 
warm  solvents  extract  all  the  active  principle  from  the  unbroken  seed,  was  corroborated 
by  L.  I.  Morris  (1881)  and  by  Hertel. 

Constituents. — The  important  constituent  of  the  tuber,  flowers,  and  seeds  of  col- 
cliicum  is  colchicine , which  is  converted  by  acids  into  colchiceine.  Pelletier  and  Caventou 
(1820)  supposed  it  to  be  veratrine,  but  Geiger  and  Hesse  (1833)  proved  it  to  be  distinct. 
Owing  to  a case  of  poisoning  by  wine  of  colchicum  which  occurred  in  Berlin  in  1855,  it 
again  attracted  attention,  and  was  examined  (1857)  by  Aschoff,  Bley,  John  E.  Carter, 
and  others.  Oberlin  (1856)  denied  the  alkaloidal  nature  of  this  body,  and  regarded 
(1857)  the  crystalline  colchiceine  as  the  poisonous  principle  of  colchicum.  The  majority 
of  investigators,  including  Ludwig  (1862),  Diehl  (1867),  and  Hertel  (1881),  regarded  it 
as  a nitrogenated,  non-alkaloidal  bitter  principle,  which  is  readily  altered  by  chem- 
ical reagents,  though  it  is  not  a glucoside,  as  was  asserted  by  Walz.  But  Carter’s 
colchicine  (a  specimen  of  which  is  in  the  cabinet  of  the  Philadelphia  College  of  Phar- 
macy) is  unmistakably  though  feebly  alkaline,  as  we  have  shown  in  1867  ; it  affords  also 
precipitates  with  the  usual  reagents  for  alkaloids.  Similar  results  were  obtained  by 
Eberbach  (1874),  who  succeeded  in  crystallizing  it  from  chloroform  in  silky  needles,  and 
by  Johanny  and  Zeissel  (1888),  who  substituted  the  formula  C22H25N06  for  the  Hiibler 
formula,  C17H19N05,  and  proved  the  same  by  the  decomposition  products.  Rosen wasser 
(1877)  obtained  crystals  from  benzene,  which  became  amorphous  after  exposure  to  the 
air  for  several  months.  According  to  Hertel,  colchicine  prepared  in  the  usual  manner 
contains  fruit-sugar  and  other  impurities,  notably  two  resins,  and  also  colchiceine ; these 
principles  are  thus  characterized  : Colchicine , C22H25N06,  is  colorless  or  yellow,  amorphous, 
soluble  in  water,  alcohol,  and  chloroform,  less  soluble  in  ether,  of  a saffron-like  odor  and 
bitter  taste,  precipitated  by  tannin,  turns  moist  litmus-paper  slowly  blue  in  consequence 
of  incipient  decomposition,  with  formation  of  ammonia,  and  its  aqueous  solution  is 
colored  yellow  by  hydrochloric  acid.  Colchicine  is  not  affected  by  cold  sodium  hydrox- 
ide solution  : if,  however,  it  be  boiled  with  it  or  with  dilute  sulphuric  acid,  decomposition 
takes  place,  methyl  alcohol  being  formed  and  colchiceine.  Colchicine  is  the  methyl 
ether  of  colchiceine.  Colchiceine , C21H23N064H20,  is  in  white  crystals,  inodorous,  soluble 
in  alcohol,  chloroform,  and  hot  water,  colored  green  by  ferric  chloride,  and,  after  several 
days’  standing,  precipitated  by  tannin  ; it  has  a slight  acid  reaction,  and  combines  with 
bases,  the  compounds  being  mostly  insoluble  in  water,  but  soluble  in  alcohol  and  chloro- 
form. It  is  easily  converted  into  colchicine  by  treating  a methyl-alcoholic  solution  of  it 
with  hydrochloric  acid  gas,  or  by  digesting  colchiceine  with  methyl  iodide  and  sodium  in 
methyl  alcohol.  By  treatment  with  hydrochloric  acid,  acetic  acid  and  colchicinic  acid 
with  its  di-  and  tri-  methyl  homologues  are  formed.  Colchicoresin , C5iH60N2O15;  is  brown, 
amorphous,  soluble  in  chloroform  and  alcohol,  insoluble  in  ether,  and  very  sparingly 
soluble  in  cold  water.  Betacolchico-resin,  C34H39NO10,  is  blackish-brown,  soluble  in  strong 
alcohol  and  chloroform  and  insoluble  in  water  and  ether.  The  last  two  principles  are  not, 
or  but  slightly,  affected  by  tannin,  are  colored  brown-green  by  ferric  chloride,  and  dissolve 
in  potassa  with  a brown  color.  Colchicine  and  colchiceine  yield  with  potassa  a yellow 
solution.  The  four  principles  yield  with  sulphuric  acid  and  potassium  nitrate  a deep- 
blue  or  purplish-blue  color,  and  when  this  has  disappeared  concentrated  potassa  solution 
produces  a more  permanent  brick-red  color.  By  heating  colchiceine  with  hydrochloric 
acid  at  115°  C.  (239°  F.),  Zeissel  (1883)  obtained  methyl  chloride  and  apocolchiceine, 
which  he  has  since  shown  to  be  the  colchicic  acids  noted  above,  and  the  hot  aqueous  or 
dilute  alcoholic  solutions  of  which  solidify  on  cooling  to  a gelatinous  mass.  Its  salts  are 
amorphous  ; its  solutions  in  acids  are  intensely  yellow,  and  are  precipitated  by  the  group- 
reagents  for  alkaloids.  Ferric  chloride  gives  a brown-green  precipitate  soluble  with  a 
green  color  in  hydrochloric  acid.  The  behavior  to  sulphuric  acid  and  potassium  nitrate 
is  similar  to  that  described  above. 

Colchicine  is  usually  prepared  by  exhausting  with  alcohol,  evaporating,  diluting  with 
water,  filtering,  precipitating  coloring-matter  with  lead  subacetate,  removing  excess 
of  lead  by  sodium  phosphate,  and  precipitating  colchicine  with  tannin  ; the  washed 
tannate  is  digested  with  lead  oxide  and  dried,  when  alcohol  dissolves  the  colchicine. 
Eberbach’s  process  is  a modification  of  that  of  Geiger  and  Hesse  : he  exhausts  with 
alcohol  containing  $ per  cent,  sulphuric  acid  ; to  the  tincture  calcium  hydroxide  is  added, 


COLCHICUM. 


519 


and  to  the  filtrate,  if  necessary,  sulphuric  acid,  to  exact  neutralization  ; the  alcohol  is 
distilled  off,  the  residue  diluted  with  water,  filtered,  the  filtrate  treated  with  ammonia, 
and  then  agitated  with  chloroform.  Hertefs  pure  colchicine  is  made  by  adding  magnesia 
to  the  tincture  of  the  unbroken  seeds,  distilling  off  the  alcohol,  diluting  the  cold  residue 
with  water,  separating  the  fat,  and  extracting  the  principle  with  chloroform  ; the  yield  is 
0.4  per  cent.  Zeissel’s  method  is  as  follows : Colchicum-seeds  are  exhausted  with  90 
per  cent,  alcohol,  evaporated,  mixed  with  water,  and  then  extracted  with  chloroform. 
The  residue  left  after  the  evaporation  of  the  chloroform  after  again  treating  with  water 
and  chloroform,  is  treated  with  absolute  ether  as  long  as  the  precipitate  formed  is  redis- 
solved, and  then  subjected  to  a temperature  of  0°  C.  (32°  F.).  The  compound  of  chloro- 
form and  colchicine  thus  formed  is  readily  freed  from  the  former  by  distillation  with 
steam. 

Action  and  Uses. — When  moderate  doses  of  colchicum  have  been  repeated  for 
several  days  or  a single  large  dose  has  been  taken,  some  heat  is  felt  in  the  epigastrium, 
with  eructations  and  perhaps  nausea.  Under  its  continued  action  the  appetite  fails,  the 
tongue  becomes  coated,  and  there  is  some  colic,  with  gurgling  and  diarrhoea.  In  doses 
of  from  1 to  4 drachms  within  twenty-four  hours  it  occasions  bilious  vomiting,  with  colic 
and  straining,  heat  in  the  anus,  and  bloody  and  mucous  stools.  It  is  said  that  the  abdo- 
men is  not  tender  under  pressure,  and  cases  of  colchicum-poisoning  indicate  that  the 
statement  is  true. 

Poisonous  doses  of  colchicum,  apart  from  the  symptom  just  alluded  to,  occasion  all  the 
signs  of  violent  gastro-intestinal  irritation,  a true  cholera  morbus,  with  griping,  vomiting, 
diarrhoea,  prostration,  and  painful  spasms  of  the  limbs  and  trunk,  followed  by  resolution 
and  collapse,  in  which  death  may  occur  without  delirium  or  coma.  It  probably  is  due  at 
last  to  cardiac  syncope. 

The  chief  use  of  colchicum  is  in  the  treatment  of  gout , for  which  disease  it  was 
anciently  employed,  and  only  fell  into  neglect  through  the  prevalence  of  absurd  medical 
theories  which  condemned  it  because  their  authors  could  not  comprehend  its  operation. 
Only  within  the  first  quarter  of  the  present  century  was  it  revived,  after  the  discovery 
that  the  virtues  of  an  unquestionably  efficient  quack  remedy  for  the  cure  of  gout  were 
due  to  colchicum.  As  a general  rule,  it  acts  much  more  favorably  upon  acute  than 
chronic  gout,  and  upon  first  attacks  than  upon  those  which  are  frequently  repeated ; it 
does  not  agree  with  old  persons  as  well  as  with  the  young  or  the  middle-aged  ; and 
usually,  although  by  no  means  uniformly,  its  favorable  operation  is  attended  with  an  in- 
creased secretion  of  bile  and  urine,  free  alvine  discharges  without  diarrhoea,  and  a moist 
state  of  the  skin.  Its  curative  effects  are  not  to  be  secured  by  allowing  it  to  excite  vom- 
iting or  purging,  but  are  retarded  and  rendered  incomplete  by  such  evacuations.  These 
evils  should  be  avoided  by  commencing  the  administration  with  small  doses  of  the  drug. 
A repetition  of  the  gouty  attacks  renders  larger  doses  necessary,  and  in  course  of  time 
they  are  apt  to  resist  the  medicine  completely.  Before  commencing  the  use  of  colchicum 
in  this  disease  it  is  profitable  to  remove  the  contents  of  the  alimentary  canal  by  means 
of  a purgative.  A draught  containing  sulphate  of  magnesia,  with  magnesia  or  its  car- 
bonate, in  an  aromatic  water,  is  the  most  appropriate  form  of  prescribing  it. 

Much  has  been  written  of  the  virtues  of  colchicum  in  rheumatism , and  some  reputable 
physicians  have  estimated  them  highly;  but  a close  inquiry  leaves  no  doubt  that  what- 
ever good  may  have  been  achieved  was  due  either  to  the  violent  purgative  operation  of 
the  medicine  or  to  the  agents  with  which  it  was  associated.  The  recent  hypodermic  use 
of  colchicine  for  the  same  disease  is  mentioned  only  to  be  condemned.  The  local  action 
of  the  alkaloid  is  very  irritating.  The  same  remark  applies  with  equal  force  to  the  use 
of  the  medicine  in  cholera , tetanus,  neuralgia,  diseases  of  the  skin , etc.,  but  it  is  possible 
that  it  may  exert  a salutary  diuretic  action  in  dropsy  depending  upon  congestion  or  infarc- 
tion of  the  kidneys.  Its  importance  in  this  affection  compared  with  that  of  digitalis  is 
almost  null.  Colchicin  has  been  used  with  alleged  advantage  in  various  inflammatory 
diseases  of  the  eye  by  Darier,  in  doses  of  gr.  -fa  from  one  to  six  times  a day  ( Med . News, 
liv.  350). 

The  dose  of  the  dried  cormus  of  colchicum  may  be  stated  at  from  Gm.  0.10-0.40  (gr. 
ii-viij),  and,  according  to  some  persons,  this  form  of  the  medicine  is  the  most  efficient. 
But  the  wines  or  the  extracts  are  usually  preferred.  Colchicin  is  a powerful  poison.  If 
used  at  all,  its  dose  should  not  exceed  gr.  two  or  three  times  a day. 


520 


COLLINSONIA.-  COLL  ODIUM '. 


COLLINSONIA. — Horsebalm. 

Richweed , Stone-root , Knob-root , Heal-all , E.  ; Guerit-tout , Baume  de  cheval , Fr. ; Cob 
linsonie,  G. 

Collinsonia  canadensis,  Linne.  Meehan,  Native  Flowers , ii.  165. 

Nat.  Ord. — Labiatae. 

Description. — A perennial  herb  about  .9  or  1.2  M.  (3  or  4 feet)  high,  growing  in 
rich  woodlands  in  North  America  from  South  Carolina  northward.  It  has  a nearly  hori- 
zontal and  irregularly-branched  rhizome,  having,  together  with  the  branches,  a length  and 
width  of  7 to  15  Cm.  (3  to  6 inches),  and  on  the  upper  side  a very  knotty  and  tubercu- 
lated  appearance  from  the  numerous  short  projecting  branches  and  the  many  shallow  con- 
cave stem-scars  ; the  lower  surface  is  much  less  knotty,  and  bears  many  thin  nearly  simple 
rootlets  or  their  remnants.  It  is  externally  of  a grayish-  or  yellowish-brown  color,  has  a 
very  thin  bark  of  a slight  nauseous  taste,  and  a very  hard,  whitish  wood.  The  stem  is 
quadrangular  and  hairy  above ; the  leaves  are  opposite,  petiolate,  7 to  20  Cm.  (3  to  8 
inches)  long,  thin,  nearly  smooth,  ovate,  pointed,  sometimes  rather  heart-shaped  at  the  base, 
coarsely  serrate,  and  somewhat  dotted  beneath.  The  flowers  are  in  loose  racemes,  of  a 
greenish-yellow  color,  the  lower  lip  of  the  corolla  fringed  and  with  two  exserted  stamens. 
The  herb  has  when  rubbed  a strong  and  usually  disagreeable  odor,  but  occasionally  it  is 
more  pleasant  and  anise-like.  Its  taste  is  pungent.  Like  other  Labiatse,  it  contains  a 
volatile  oil,  but  it  has  not  been  chemically  examined. 

Action  and  Uses. — From  the  fact  that  this  plant  contains  an  acrid  volatile  oil 
which  it  loses  in  drying,  and  that  it  has  been  popularly  regarded  as  a remedy  for  various 
forms  of  debility  or  oppression,  it  must  be  held  to  possess  stimulant  virtues.  Its 
special  action  appears  to  be  upon  the  urinary  organs,  since  it  is  esteemed  most  in 
dropsy , gravel , and  vesical  catarrh  ; and  upon  the  skin,  since  it  is  employed  as  a diapho- 
retic in  rheumatism  and  fevers.  Doubtless,  the  latter  object  is  best  secured  by  a hot,  and 
the  former  by  a cold,  infusion  of  the  plant.  The  essential  oil  has  been  used  separately, 
and  probably  contains  all  the  curative  virtues  of  the  herb.  The  fresh-bruised  herb  has 
been  employed  for  the  relief  of  the  eruption  produced  by  poison  sumach , as  a vulnerary, 
and  as  an  anodyne  for  colic  and  other  local  pains,  especially  in  hot  fomentations.  Next 
to  the  essential  oil,  an  infusion  of  the  bruised  fresh  plant  is  to  be  preferred,  which  in 
dropsical  affections  may  be  prepared  with  cider. 

COLLODIUM,  U.  S.,  Br.,  P.  G.— Collodion. 

Collodion , Fr. ; Collodium,  Kollodium , G. ; Collodio , It. 

Preparation. — Pyroxylin  30  Gm. ; Ether  750  Cc. ; Alcohol  250  Cc.  To  the 
pyroxylin,  contained  in  a bottle,  add  the  alcohol,  and  let  it  stand  for  fifteen  minutes ; then 
add  the  ether,  and  shake  the  mixture  until  the  pyroxylin  is  dissolved.  Cork  the  bottle 
well  and  set  it  aside  until  the  liquid  has  become  clear.  Then  decant  it  from  any  sedi- 
ment which  may  have  formed  and  transfer  it  to  bottles,  which  should  be  securely  corked. 
Keep  the  collodion  in  a cool  place,  remote  from  lights  or  fire. — U.  S. 

Collodion  prepared  from  220  grains  of  pyroxylin,  12  fluidounces  of  ether,  and  4 fluid- 
ounces  of  alcohol  will  correspond  to  the  official  article. 

The  British  Pharmacopoeia  directs  the  solution  of  1 ounce  of  pyroxylin  in  a mixture 
of  36  fluidounces  of  ether  and  12  fluidounces  of  rectified  spirit.  The  proportions  of  the 
German  Pharmacopoeia  are — 1 part  of  collodion-cotton  to  21  parts  of  ether  and  3 parts  of 
alcohol.  The  Pharmacopoeias  order  the  solution  to  be  poured  off  from  any  sediment  which 
may  form,  and  which  by  the  U.  S.  P.  1870  was  ordered  to  be  reincorporated  by  agitation 
before  using  the  collodion. 

Properties. — If  the  pyroxylin — or,  more  correctly,  colloxylin — has  been  properly 
made,  there  is  no  difficulty  in  preparing  collodion  by  simply  agitating  it  occasionally  with 
the  liquid.  It  forms  a neutral,  nearly  clear,  or  slightly  opalescent,  either  colorless  or 
slightly  yellowish,  liquid  having  a syrupy  consistence  and  ethereal  odor.  On  evaporation 
it  forms  a colorless,  glossy,  and  contractile  film,  which  is  more  or  less  white  and  opaque 
if  applied  with  the  insoluble  sediment. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Collodion  and  flexible  collodion  may  be  used  as  an  excel- 
lent vehicle  for  the  local  application  of  medicinal  substances  soluble  in  ether,  such  as 
aconitine,  atropine,  tannin,  ferric  chloride,  carbolic  acid,  the  oleoresins  of  capsicum,  pep- 
per, etc.,  camphor,  corrosive  sublimate,  red  mercuric  iodide,  etc. 

Action  and  Uses. — These  are  treated  of  under  Collodium  flexile. 


COLLODIUM  CA  NTH  A RIDA  TUM.—COLL  ODIUM  FLEXILE. 


521 


COLLODIUM  CANTHARIDATUM,  77.  8.,  P.  G.—G antharidal 

Collodion. 

Collodium  vesicant,  Br.  ; Collodium  cantharidale. — Blistering  collodion , E. ; Collodion 
vesicant  (s.  cantharide , cantharidal ),  Fr. ; Blasenziehendes  Collodium , Kanthariden-Kollo- 
dium,  G\ 

Preparation. — Cantharides,  in  No.  60  powder,  60  Gm. ; Flexible  Collodion  85  Gm. ; 
Chloroform,  a sufficient  quantity.  Pack  the  cantharides  firmly  in  a cylindrical  perco- 
lator, and  gradually  pour  chloroform  upon  them,  until  the  cantharides  are  exhausted. 
Recover  the  chloroform  by  distillation  on  a water-bath,  and  evaporate  the  residue  in  a 
capsule,  by  means  of  a water-bath,  until  it  weighs  15  grammes.  Dissolve  this  in  the 
flexible  collodion,  and  let  it  stand  at  rest  for  forty-eight  hours.  Finally,  pour  off  the  clear 
portion  from  any  sediment  which  may  have  been  deposited  and  transfer  it  to  bottles, 
which  should  be  securely  corked.  Cantharidal  collodion  should  be  kept  in  a cool  place, 
remote  from  lights  or  fire. — U.  S. 

If  4 av.  ozs.  of  cantharides  be  exhausted  with  chloroform,  the  resulting  tincture  evap- 
orated (as  directed  above)  to  1 av.  oz.,  and  sufficient  flexible  collodion  then  added  to 
make  the  mixture  weigh  6£  av.  ozs.,  the  finished  product  will  be  about  of  pharmacopoeial 
strength. 

Chloroform  is  a better  solvent  for  cantharidin  or  the  cantharidin  compound  contained  in 
old  Spanish  flies ; but  if  such  be  used  it  would  seem  to  be  of  advantage  to  treat  the 
powder  by  DragendorfFs  process  (see  page  398),  when  cantharidin  will  be  set  free,  as 
shown  by  Fahnestock  (1879).  Powdered  cantharides  being  much  lighter  than  chloro- 
form, their  percolation  with  this  menstruum  presents  some  difficulty  unless  pressed  down 
by  a layer  of  washed  sand.  Owing  to  the  volatility  of  the  chloroform,  percolation  should 
be  performed  with  an  apparatus  such  as  is  used  for  the  percolation  of  ethereal  liquids 
(see  Oleoresin^e),  and  the  greater  part  of  the  menstruum  remaining  absorbed  in  the 
powder  may  be  recovered  by  judicious  percolation  with  water.  If  the  proper  precautions 
be  observed  in  distilling  the  chloroformic  tincture,  the  loss  of  chloroform  will  be  insig- 
nificant. The  present  formula  is  similar  to  that  of  Procter  (1852),  in  which,  however, 
ether  was  used  for  exhausting  the  cantharides ; the  inflammability  of  this  liquid  and  its 
vapor  requires  additional  precautions  in  distilling  the  tincture. 

The  U.  S.  P.  1870  directed  the  exhaustion  of  the  cantharides  by  means  of  ether  and 
alcohol,  a portion  of  the  ethereal  percolate  being  reserved,  while  the  remaining  percolate 
was  evaporated,  the  residue  mixed  with  the  reserved  portion,  and  the  preparation  finished 
by  adding  the  requisite  amount  of  pyroxylin,  castor  oil,  and  Canada  turpentine.  For 
reasons  stated  under  Cantharides  their  exhaustion  is  better  accomplished  by  acetic 
ether  than  by  ether. 

Collodium  vesicans,  Br .,  is  made  from  blistering  liquid  20  fluidounces  and  pyroxylin  1 
ounce. 

The  German  Pharmacopoeia  directs  this  collodion  to  be  made  by  exhausting  coarsely- 
powdered  cantharides  with  a sufficient  quantity  of  ether,  evaporating  the  tincture  to  a 
syrupy  consistence  and  adding  sufficient  collodion  to  make  the  total  weight  of  the  fin- 
ished product  equal  the  weight  of  the  cantharides  used. 

Properties. — Cantharidal  collodion  has  the  same  physical  properties  as  flexible  collo- 
dion, except  that  it  is  of  a brownish-green  color,  which  becomes  yellowish  on  exposure 
to  light ; it  is  therefore  best  kept  in  amber-colored  vials.  The  film  left  on  evaporation 
has  also  a greenish  color. 

Action  and  Uses. — See  the  following  article. 

COLLODIUM  FLEXILE,  77.  S.9  Hr. — Flexible  Collodion. 

Collodium  elastic  um,  P.  G. — Collodium  elastique , Fr. ; Elastisclies  Collodium , G. 

Preparation. — Collodion  920  Gm.;  Canada  Turpentine  50  Gm. ; Castor  Oil  30  Gm.  ; 
to  make  1000  Gm.  Mix  them  and  keep  the  mixture  in  a well-corked  bottle  in  a cool 
place,  remote  from  lights  or  fire. — U.  S. 

This  is  nearly  identical  with  the  formula  of  the  British  Pharmacopoeia : the  German 
Pharmacopoeia  directs  the  dissolving  of  1 part  of  castor  oil  and  5 parts  of  turpentine  in 
94  parts  of  collodion. 

Flexible  collodion  may  also  be  made  by  weighing  successively,  into  a tared  bottle,  4 
av.  ozs.  of  collodion,  95  grains  of  Canada  turpentine,  and  57  grains  of  castor  oil. 


522 


COLLODIUM  FLEXILE. 


Properties.  “This  preparation  has  the  same  appearance  as  collodion,  hut  on  evapo- 
ration it  forms  an  elastic  and  scarcely  contractile  film. 

Allied  Preparations. — Collodium  Iodatum,  N.  F. — Iodized  Collodion.  Take  of  Iodine, 
reduced  to  powder,  5 parts  ; Flexible  Collodion  95  parts ; introduce  the  iodine  into  a tared 
bottle,  add  the  flexible  collodion,  and  agitate  until  the  iodine  is  dissolved.  (400  grains  of  the 
finished  product  will  about  equal  1 fluidounce.) 

Collodium  lodoformatum , N.  F. — Iodoform  Collodion.  Take  of  Iodoform,  5 parts ; Flexible 
Collodion,  95  parts.  Dissolve  the  iodoform  in  the  flexible  collodion  by  agitation.  (400  grains 
of  the  finished  product  will  about  equal  1 fluidounce.) 

Collodium  Tiglii , N.  F. — Croton  Oil  Collodion.  Take  of  Croton  Oil  10  parts ; Flexible  Collo- 
dion 90  parts  ; mix  them.  (400  grains  of  the  finished  product  will  about  equal  1 fluidounce.) 

Collodium  Salicylatum  Compositum , N.  F. — Compound  Salicylated  Collodion  ; Corn  Collodion. 
Take  of  Salicylic  Acid  1 1 parts ; Extract  of  Indian  Hemp  2 parts  ; Alcohol  10  parts ; Flexible 
Collodion,  enough  to  make  100  parts ; dissolve  the  extract  in  the  alcohol,  and  the  salicylic  acid 
in  about  50  parts  of  flexible  collodion  contained  in  a tared  bottle.  Then  add  the  former  solution 
to  the  latter,  and  finally  add  enough  flexible  collodion  to  make  100  parts.  (400  grains  of  the 
finished  product  will  about  equal  1 fluidounce.) 

Action  and  Uses. — When  collodion  is  spread  upon  the  skin  the  evaporation  of 
its  ether  causes  its  dissolved  constituents  to  solidify  and  contract.  As  it  then  becomes 
very  adhesive,  the  parts  to  which  it  is  applied  are  constringed  during  the  process,  and 
therefore  are  measurably  rendered  anaemic,  so  that  congestion,  inflammation,  and  pain  in 
them  are  prevented  or  reduced.  The  film  formed  by  collodion  in  drying  is  impermeable 
to  air  and  water,  and  therefore  protects  the  parts  underneath  it,  while  its  transparency 
permits  them  to  be  seen.  The  adhesive,  protective,  and  contractile  powers  of  collodion 
have  been  variously  applied.  In  wounds  of  the  scalp  it  serves  to  attach  to  the  shaven 
skin  slips  of  parchment,  between  whose  opposite  edges  sutures  are  inserted  to  draw 
them  together.  In  other  simple  incised  wounds  it  is  applied  while  the  edges  of  the 
wounds  are  kept  accurately  coaptated,  the  skin  being  first  made  perfectly  dry.  Collo- 
dion is  often  serviceable  as  a coating  to  ulcers  which  will  not  heal  in  consequence  of  the 
moisture  of  the  locality  or  its  liability  to  mechanical  irritation.  Of  the  former  sort  are 
ulcers  of  the  neck  of  the  uterus ; of  the  latter,  various  ulcers  of  the  skin.  The  appli- 
cation should  be  made  first  at  some  distance  around  the  sore,  and  gradually  advance  to  its 
centre,  which  ought  to  be  left  open  for  the  escape  of  the  secretions.  Its  protective  and  con- 
stringing properties  are  sometimes  employed  in  the  treatment  of  carbuncles.  As  in  the  case 
just  mentioned,  the  application  should  be  made  widely  around  the  swelling,  while  its 
centre  should  be  left  free.  The  same  qualities  render  it  available  in  preventing  and  in 
treating  bed-sores  and  sore  nipples.  Its  protective  action  has  been  employed  to  prevent 
abrasions  and  other  wounds  from  becoming  infected  during  surgical  and  obstetrical  opera- 
tions and  in  dissections.  Its  constringing  operation  enables  it  to  control  hsemorrhage 
from  leech-bites  and  other  small  wounds,  to  diminish  the  inflammation  produced  by  the 
stings  of  insects  and  the  local  phenomena  of  erysipelas , burns , and  small-pox , in  the  last 
of  which  it  is  thought  to  prevent  pitting.  For  these  three  purposes  it  is  necessary  to 
modify  the  action  of  the  collodion  so  as  to  render  it  less  rigid  when  hardened.  A mix- 
ture of  1 part  of  castor  oil  with  15  of  collodion  is  said  to  have  this  effect,  or  the  offici- 
nal flexible  collodion  may  be  used.  With  a similar  object  collodion  has  been  applied 
with  more  or  less  success  to  the  treatment  of  a variety  of  limited  cutaneous  eruptions, 
such  as  intertrigo , acne , eczema , and  herpes  zoster.  In  the  last-named  affection  it  certainly 
lessens  the  pain.  It  is  probable  that  a death  in  discrete  small-pox  following  the  appli- 
cation of  collodion  {Med.  Record , xxx.  295)  was  due  to  the  non-flexible  preparation, 
and  perhaps  to  its  excessive  use.  In  several  of  these  disorders  a preparation  of 
collodion  has  been  used  containing  vegetable  and  mineral  astringents,  as  tannic  acid 
in  the  officinal  styptic  collodion.  Collodion  may  be  employed  to  reduce  the  swelling 
of  gonorrhoeal  orchitis , the  skin  of  the  swollen  testicle  being  tensely  drawn  before  the 
application  is  made.  It  has  also  been  used  with  advantage  in  the  treatment  of  varicocele. 
Applied  halfway  around  the  finger  affected  with  felon , it  relieves  the  pain  and  sometimes 
arrests  the  suppuration.  In  retracted  nipple  a zone  of  this  liquid,  applied  so  as  to 
encircle  the  nipple  at  the  distance  of  a quarter  of  an  inch,  will  sometimes  cause  it  to 
protrude.  Its  constringing  action  and  its  mechanical  support  render  it  efficient  in  pre- 
venting protrusion  of  the  bowel  in  umbilical  hernia , and  even  in  some  cases  of  inguinal 
hernia ; and  the  same  is  true  of  its  use  in  cases  of  spina  bifida , vascular  nsevi,  and  ceph- 
alhematoma after  puncture.  It  may  be  used  for  a similar  purpose  in  the  treatment  of 
sprains  and  fractures  of  the  nasal  or  other  small  bones,  its  application  being  renewed  as 
fast  as  the  existing  film  becomes  loose ; or  cotton  saturated  with  collodion  may  be  applied 


COLLODIUM  S TYPTICUM. — COL OCYJS THIS. 


523 


and  secured  with  a bandage.  It  has  been  employed  with  alleged  success  to  prevent  noc- 
turnal urination  in  children,  by  closing  the  orifice  of  the  urethra  with  it  at  bed- 
time ; but  this  is  a clumsy  expedient.  In  applying  the  actual  cautery  its  action  may 
he  limited  by  including  the  skin  about  to  be  burned  within  a broad  and  thick  circle  of 
collodion. 

Various  substances  of  a caustic  nature,  such  as  cantharides,  croton  oil,  iodine,  corrosive 
sublimate,  iodide  of  zinc,  chromic  acid,  etc.,  and  certain  astringents,  such  as  tannin,  the 
salts  of  iron  and  copper,  etc.,  have  been  associated  with  collodion  for  local  application. 
Cantharidal,  flexible,  and  styptic  collodions  are  officinal.  Some  of  these  compounds 
require  cautious  use.  Iodine  collodion  applied  to  a frostbitten  finger  caused  the  loss  of 
this  member ; painted  over  a large  surface,  it  produced  gangrene  of  the  skin  and  slough- 
ing ; and  applied  to  a swollen  gland,  it  caused  sloughing  and  an  ulcer  ( Edinb . Med.  Jour., 
xxxii.  568). 

Before  applying  collodion  the  skin  should  be  perfectly  dry,  and,  the  liquid  having 
been  laid  on  with  a soft  brush,  the  first  layer  should  be  allowed  to  harden  before  a second 
is  applied.  For  protective  purposes  a thin  film  will  suffice ; for  constriction  a thicker 
coating  is  required.  In  dressing  wounds  a piece  of  patent  lint  or  of  linen  cambric  satu- 
rated with  the  liquid  should  be  laid  upon  the  part  after  the  edges  of  the  wound  are  accu- 
rately coaptated.  If  a firm  dressing  without  constriction  is  desired,  flexible  collodion 
is  to  be  preferred. 

Phytoxylin,  5 per  cent.,  dissolved  in  equal  parts  of  alcohol  and  ether,  is  said  to  be 
preferable  to  collodion  through  its  adhesiveness,  its  impermeability  to  liquids,  and  its 
equable  compression  of  the  tissues.  It  is  recommended  as  a dressing  for  small  wounds 
of  the  face,  the  genitals,  etc.  (Penzoldt),  and  also  as  a means  of  closing  perforation  of 
the  tympanum  (Guranowski). 

COLLODIUM  STYPTICUM,  U.  Styptic  Collodion. 

Collodium  hsemostaticum. — Styptic  colloid , Xylosfyptic  ether , E.  ; Collodion  au  tannin , 
Col.  sfyptique , Fr.  ; Tannin- Collodium,  G. 

Preparation. — Tannic  Acid  20  Gm. ; Alcohol  5 Cc. ; Ether  25  Cc. ; Collodion,  a suf- 
ficient quantity  ; to  make  100  Cc.  Introduce  the  tannic  acid,  alcohol,  and  ether  into  a 
graduated  bottle,  agitate  until  the  tannic  acid  is  thoroughly  incorporated  and  partially 
dissolved,  then  add  enough  collodion  to  make  up  the  volume  to  100  Cc.,  and  shake  occa- 
sionally, until  the  acid  is  completely  dissolved.  Keep  the  product  in  cork-stoppered 
bottles,  in  a cool  place,  remote  from  lights  and  fire. — U.  S. 

Styptic  collodion  of  pharmacopoeial  strength  may  also  be  prepared  by  using  620  grains 
of  tannic  acid,  160  minims  of  alcohol,  13J  fluidrachms  of  ether,  and  sufficient  collodion  to 
bring  the  volume  up  to  6f  fluidounces. 

This  preparation  was  originally  suggested  by  Dr.  Benjamin  W.  Richardson  (1867), 
who  added  a small  quantity  of  tincture  of  benzoin.  A somewhat  similar  but  much 
stronger  preparation  is  the  one  recommended  by  Pavesi,  consisting  of  tannin  5 parts, 
carbolic  acid  10  parts,  benzoic  acid  3 parts,  and  collodion  100  parts. 

Action  and  Uses. — It  is  difficult  to  understand  how  tannic  acid  enclosed  in  an 
insoluble  matrix  (which  the  solution  becomes  directly  it  is  applied)  can  operate  as  an 
astringent.  Such,  however,  is  the  purpose  supposed  to  be  accomplished  by  this  prepara- 
tion, already  referred  to  under  Collodium  Flexile. 

COLOCYNTHIS,  U.  S. — Colocynth. 

Poma  colocynthidis. — Bitter  apple,  E.  ; Coloquinthe , Fr. ; Koloquinten , G.  ; Colloquin- 
tide , It.,  Sp. 

The  fruit  of  Citrullis  (Cucumis,  Linne)  Colocynthis,  Schrader.  Woodville,  Med.  Bot 
plate  175;  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 114. 

Nat.  Ord. — Cucurbitaceae. 

Official  Parts. — L Colocynthis,  U.  S. ; Fructus  colocynthidis,  P.G. — Colocynth, 
E. ; Coloquintes,  Fr.  ; Koloquinten,  G. — The  fruit  deprived  of  its  rind. 

2.  Colocynthidis  pulpa,  Br. — Colo cy nth-pulp.  E. ; Pulpe  de  coloquinte,  Fr.  ; Kolo- 
quintenmark,  G.  The  decorticated  fruit  freed  from  the  seeds. 

Origin. — The  colocynth-plant  has  a perennial  root,  an  herbaceous,  angular,  hispid 
stem,  with  many-lobed  hairy  leaves,  short  branching  tendrils,  and  solitary  axillary  uni- 


524 


COLOCYNTHIS. 


Peeled  Colocynth : 
longitudiual  and  transverse  section. 

covered  with  a smooth  and  thin  but  firm, 


sexual  flowers  with  a yellow  corolla. 
Fig.  81.  It  is  said  to  be  indigenous  to  Japan, 

and  is  met  with  abundantly  from  the 
sandy  lands  of  Coromandel  north-west- 
ward to  the  Caspian  Sea,  and  west- 
ward throughout  Western  Asia  to 
Greece,  throughout  Northern  Africa, 
and  as  far  south  as  Nubia,  Senegam- 
bia,  and  the  Cape  of  Good  Hope. 
It  is  cultivated  and  naturalized  in 
Spain. 

Description. — The  fruit,  called 
gourd  or  pepo,  resembles  an  orange  in 
size  and  appearance,  is  globular,  5 to 
10  Cm.  (2  to  4 inches)  in  diameter,  and 
parchment-like  rind  of  a light  brownish-yellow 
color.  The  rind  is  usually  removed,  sometimes  from  the  fresh,  hut  more  frequently  from 
the  dried,  fruit.  In  the  former  case  the  white  or  yellowish-white  pulp  is  considerably 
shrunk,  so  as  to  closely  envelop  the  seeds  ; in  the  latter  case  the  fruit  has  retained  its 
original  size  and  shape,  but  shows  upon  the  surface  of  the  spongy  pulp  the  smooth  cuts 
with  a sharp  knife.  It  is  destitute  of  odor,  but  has  an  intensely  bitter  taste,  is  very 
light,  and  divided  into  three  easily  separable  cells  by  the  parietal  placentae,  which  project 
to  near  the  centre,  are  then  branched,  turned  back  toward  the  rind,  and  here  curved 
inward  again,  so  that  by  the  development  of  each  placenta  three  slightly-united  wedges 
are  formed,  each  being  again  divided  into  two  parts.  The  naturally  one-celled  fruit 
has  therefore  the  appearance  of  being  six-celled,  and  the  seeds  being  borne  on  the 
incurved  ends  of  the  placentae  in  two,  or  sometimes  three,  rows,  there  are  at  least  four 
rows  of  seeds  in  each  wedge  or  twelve  rows  in  the  fruit.  The  seeds  are  flat  ovate,  with 
a rounded  edge,  brownish  or  yellowish,  and  contain  an  oily  embryo  with  two  thick  cotyl- 
edons. The  pulp  consists  of  roundish,  thin-walled,  loosely-united  parenchyma-cells, 
containing  a little  granular  matter  and  becoming  larger  toward  the  centre  ; the  thin  fibro- 
vascular  bundles  form  in  the  outer  layer  an  irregular  circle  and  are  scattered  in  the 
interior.  Good  colocynth  yields  from  65  to  72  per  cent,  of  seeds  and  from  28  to  35  per 
cent,  of  pulp,  the  latter  alone  being  employed  in  medicine.  The  oily  and  slightly  bitter 
seeds,  freed  from  the  adhering  bitter  pulp  and  from  the  integuments,  are  used  as  food  in 
some  parts  of  Africa.  According  to  Fliickiger,  the  dried  pulp  yields  11  per  cent,  of  ash, 
and  the  seeds  2.7  per  cent,  of  ash  and  17  per  cent,  of  fixed  oil. 

Colocynth  reaches  commerce  from  Syria,  Egypt,  Morocco,  and  Spain.  The  Syrian 
variety  is  often  peeled  while  fresh,  and  when  dry  is  of  a very  shrivelled  and  unsightly 
appearance,  but  is  rarely  met  with  in  our  commerce.  27,555  pounds  of  colocynth  were 
imported  into  this  country  in  1867. 

Some  other  cucurbitaceous  fruits  have  a very  bitter  taste,  and  are  reputed  to  be  purga- 
tive, like  Cucumis  trigonus,  Roxburgh , Cue.  Hardwickii,  Royle,  of  the  East  Indies,  Cue. 
prophetarum,  Linne , of  Arabia,  and  Luffa  operculata,  Cogin. 

Constituents. — Colocynth  has  been  analyzed  by  Braconnot,  Vauquelin,  Herberger, 
Meissner,  Bastick,  and  others.  The  medicinally  unimportant  constituents  are  pectinaceous, 
mucilaginous,  and  gummy  matter,  fixed  oil,  and  salts.  Walz  (1858)  first  published  a 
process  for  obtaining  the  bitter  principle  colocynthin  in  a pure  state  by  exhausting  the 
alcoholic  extract  with  cold  water,  precipitating  the  filtrate  with  lead  acetate  and  sub- 
acetate, removing  excess  of  lead  with  hydrogen  sulphide,  precipitating  with  tannin,  dif- 
fusing the  precipitate  in  alcohol,  and  decomposing  with  plumbic  hydroxide.  Any  lead 
taken  up  by  the  liquid  is  removed  by  hydrogen  sulphide,  the  clear  liquid  evaporated,  and 
the  residue  washed  with  ether.  The  undissolved  portion  is  colocynthin,  C50II84O23  (?),  an 
amorphous  yellow  mass  which  appears  to  become  crystalline  on  the  slow  evaporation  of 
its  alcoholic  solution.  On  boiling  with  dilute  acids  it  splits  into  sugar  and  resinous  colo- 
cynthein.  The  portion  of  the  alcoholic  extract  remaining  undissolved  by  cold  water 
contains  a tasteless  crystalline  principle,  eolocynthitin , which  is  soluble  in  ether,  alcohol, 
and  hot  water.  Hiibschmann  (1858)  obtained  nearly  3 per  cent,  of  colocynthin  by  treat- 
ing the  alcoholic  extract  of  colocynth  with  hot  water,  concentrating  the  liquid,  precipi- 
tating it  with  excess  of  potassium  carbonate,  dissolving  the  dried  precipitate  in  alcohol, 
adding  8 volumes  of  ether,  decanting,  agitating  with  animal  charcoal,  filtering,  and  evap- 
orating. Henke  (1883)  prepared  apparently  a purer  colocynthin  by  precipitating  with 


COL  OCYNTHIS. 


525 

strong  tannin  solution  and  decomposing  with  lead  carbonate  ; the  yield  was  only  0.6  per 
cent,  of  the  pulp.  It  is  a pale-yellow  uncrystallizable  powder,  soluble  in  20  parts  of  cold 
and  16  parts  of  hot  water,  readily  soluble  in  alcohol,  sparingly  soluble  in  absolute  alcohol, 
and  insoluble  in  ether,  chloroform,  benzene,  benzin,  and  carbon  disulphide. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Fructus  colocyntiiidis  pr^eparati,  s.  Trochisd 
alhandal , P.  G.,  1872.  It  is  prepared  by  triturating  5 parts  of  colocynth-pulp  and  1 
part  of  powdered  gum-arabic  with  sufficient  water  to  form  a paste,  which  is  dried  and 
reduced  to  a fine  powder  having  a yellowish  color. 

Tinctura  colocynthidis,  P.  Gr.  Tincture  of  colocynth  is  made  by  macerating  for 
8 days  1 part  of  colocynth-fruit,  with  the  seeds,  with  10  parts  of  alcohol  sp.  gr.  0.832, 
expressing,  and  filtering.  It  is  of  a yellowish  color,  very  bitter,  and  becomes  opalescent 
when  mixed  with  water. 

For  medicinal  purposes  an  impure  colocynthin  has  been  proposed,  to  be  made  by  treating 
the  alcoholic  tincture  with  animal  charcoal  or  by  mixing  the  powdered  colocynth  with 
and  packing  it  upon  some  animal  charcoal,  and  then  displacing  with  alcohol ; on  evap- 
orating, a garnet-colored  mass  is  obtained  soluble  in  water  and  alcohol  and  insoluble  in 
ether.  It  has  been  used  in  doses  of  I to  ? grain. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  experiments  of  Rutherford  and  Vignal  led  them  to  the 
following  conclusions  : 1.  Colocynth  is  an  hepatic  stimulant  of  considerable  power  ; it  ren- 
ders the  bile  more  watery,  but  increases  the  secretion  of  biliary  matter.  2.  It  is  also  a 
powerful  stimulant  of  the  intestinal  glands.  In  man  small  doses  of  it  appear  to  quicken 
intestinal  peristalsis  and  augment  the  mucous  and  biliary  secretions.  The  stools  are  gene- 
rally mucous  and  watery,  and  are  attended  with  colic.  In  excessive  doses  it  operates  as 
a violent  emeto- cathartic,  causing  vomiting  and  serous  or  bloody  stools,  severe  burning 
and  colicky  pains,  and  muscular  spasms,  such  as  are  apt  to  occur  in  all  severe  gastro- 
intestinal irritation.  It  has  been  known  to  cause  death  with  these  symptoms  or  with 
the  addition  of  peritonitis.  Long  ago  Linnaeus  declared  that  the  mere  emanations  from 
colocynth  purged  and  vomited.  A person  powdering  the  dried  fruit  suffered  for  ten  days 
with  loss  of  appetite  and  a bitter  taste  in  the  mouth,  but  had  no  diarrhoea.  It  is  related 
that  a woman  who  had  made  a decoction  of  a single  fruit  in  urine  for  destroying  bed- 
bugs was  poisoned  by  its  emanations,  suffering  from  diarrhoea  and  most  of  the  above- 
mentioned  symptoms,  and,  in  addition,  swollen  face  and  feet,  albuminous  urine,  and  loss 
of  flesh  (Jansen,  Tker.  Monatsheft .,  Jan.  1889,  p.  39).  Solutions  of  colocynth  applied  to 
the  unbroken  skin  of  the  abdomen  have  occasioned  purging,  and  still  more  readily  when 
the  cuticle  was  removed. 

Colocynth  is  used  as  a purgative  when  it  is  intended  to  produce  a copious  secretion  and 
rapid  evacuation  from  the  bowels,  and  at  the  same  time  a derivative  operation  upon 
other  organs.  Thus,  it  is  employed  simply  as  an  evacuant  when  fecal  or  other  accu- 
mulations obstruct  the  intestine,  and  in  this  way  also  it  becomes  a vermifuge.  In  a 
similar  manner,  partly,  it  is  used  to  promote  indirectly  the  absorption  and  discharge  of 
dropsical  effusions , these  collections  being  absorbed  in  proportion  as  the  blood-vessels  lose 
their  watery  contents  through  the  bowels.  It  is  one  of  the  drastic  cathartics  which  were 
anciently  employed  to  cure  melancholia , and  which  for  this  purpose  are  probably  under- 
valued at  the  present  day.  In  many  cases  of  the  affection  the  scybalous  dejections, 
muddy  skin  and  eye,  foul  tongue,  tender  liver,  and  loaded  urine  are  speedily  modified  by 
active  purgation,  and  with  their  abatement  the  mental  torpor  is  removed.  In  coma,  apo- 
plexy, and  recent  paralysis  of  congestive  origin  colocynth  will  often  prove  a valuable 
revulsive.  On  the  other  hand,  its  irritation  of  the  bowel,  by  extending  to  the  bladder, 
urethra,  or  uterus,  sometimes  serves  to  cure  vesical  paralysis , chronic  urethritis , and 
amenorrhcea,  depending  upon  torpor  of  the  uterine  system.  Colocynth  has  been  used  as 
a diuretic  in  dropsy,  but  the  proof  of  its  efficacy  is  insufficient. 

Neither  colocynth  nor  its  simple  extract  is,  at  the  present  day,  often  administered  alone, 
but  usually  in  combination  with  rhubarb,  aloes,  scammony,  and  mercurials.  As  a laxative 
the  dose  may  be  stated  at  from  Gm.  0.10-0.30  (2  to  5 grains),  and  as  a drastic  purgative 
at  from  Gm.  0.30-0.60  (5  to  10  grains),  three  or  four  times  a day.  The  tincture  (P.  G.) 
is  an  efficient  preparation.  Colocynthin  has  been  found  to  purge  in  doses  of  \\  to  6 
grains,  and  hypodermically  i to  \ gr.  It  is  painful  by  the  latter  method,  and  should  be 
associated  with  cocaine. 

Luffa  operculata,  a Brazilian  plant,  bears  a fruit  as  drastic  as  colocynth,  and  used  in 
analogous  affections.  For  dropsy  a fruit  is  boiled  for  a time,  strained,  and  beaten  until 
cold  into  a froth  like  white  of  egg.  A tablespoonful  is  given  until  vomiting  or  purging 


526 


COLUTEA.— CONDURANGO  CORTEX. 


takes  place.  In  some  parts  of  Brazil  it  is  much  used  by  the  common  people,  and  some, 
times  with  bad  results  ( Am . Jour.  Phar .,  lvi.  623). 

Cucumis  myriocarpus,  or  cacur,  is  used  as  an  emetic  by  the  natives  of  South  Africa, 
who  heat  the  fruit,  squirt  its  contents  into  their  mouths,  and  swallow  the  pulp.  Mr. 
Armstrong  states  that  he  was  nauseated  after  taking  20  grains  of  the  fresh  pulp,  and  four 
or  five  hours  afterward  suffered  some  griping,  and  two  or  three  hours  later  was  purged. 
He  administered  a pepo  weighing  69  grains  to  a large  fasting  dog;  no  sickness  followed 
immediately,  but  after  eight  or  nine  hours  a watery  diarrhcea  began  which  lasted  twenty- 
four  hours.  Two  pepoes  produced  very  free  emesis  in  twenty  minutes,  and  the  last  vomit 
was  tinged  with  blood.  Considerable  salivation  also  occurred.  In  the  latter  case  there 
was  no  purging  ( Edinb . Med.  Jour .,  xxxii.  56).  The  action  of  this  product  is  therefore 
analogous  to  that  of  colocynth. 

COLUTEA. — Bladder  Senna. 

Baguenaudier , Sene  indigene.  Fr. ; Falsche  Senna , G. ; Espanta-lobos,  Sp. 

The  leaves  of  Colutea  arborescens,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Leguminosae,  Papilionacese. 

Origin. — The  bladder  senna  is  a South  European  shrub  about  3 M.  (10  feet)  high, 
with  small  racemes  of  yellow  flowers  and  greenish  inflated  legumes  containing  many 
roundish  blackish-brown  seeds. 

Description. — The  leaflets  are  in  four  or  five  pairs,  oval  or  elliptic,  obtuse  or  emar- 
ginate  at  the  apex,  regular  at  the  base,  thin,  smooth,  and  dark-green  above,  pale-green 
beneath,  and  clothed  with  appressed  hairs.  They  have  a feeble  odor  and  a nauseous 
and  bitter  taste.  They  have  occasionally  been  used  for  adulterating  senna-leaves. 

Constituents. — Bladder  senna  has  not  been  analyzed. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  leaves  and  seeds  of  this  plant  are  slightly  purgative,  and 
the  latter  were  formerly  regarded  as  emetic  also.  It  has  been  used  chiefly  as  a domestic 
purgative  in  some  parts  of  Europe,  in  an  infusion  prepared  with  Gm.  32  to  Gm.  500  (,%j 
to  Oj),  with  the  addition  of  liquorice-root  and  anise-seed,  and  taken  in  divided  doses  in 
the  morning,  fasting.  The  powder  and  the  extract  have  also  been  used,  but  the  former 
is  not  tolerated,  owing  to  its  offensive  taste,  and  the  same  objection  lies  against  the  infu- 
sion. The  smoke  of  the  dried  leaves  is  said  to  act  powerfully  as  an  errhine.  It  is 
employed  in  the  same  cases  as  senna. 

COMPTONIA.—  Sweet  Fern. 

Fern  gale,  Meadow  fern,  E. 

The  leaves  and  tops  of  Comptonia  (Myrica,  Blume)  asplenifolia,  Alton , s.  Myrica 
Comptonia,  De  Candolle. 

Nat.  Ord. — Myricaceae. 

Origin. — Sweet  fern  is  a branching  shrub  about  0.9  M.  (3  feet)  high,  growing  in 
sandy  or  sterile  places  in  Canada  and  the  United  States  southward  to  Virginia,  and  flow- 
ering in  April. 

Description. — The  leaves  are  scattered,  linear-lanceolate,  pinnatifid,  with  alternate, 
roundish,  obtuse  lobes,  stipulate,  resin-dotted,  pubescent,  thin,  and  5 to  10  Cm.  (2  to  4 
inches)  long ; the  two  stipules  are  small  and  acuminate.  They  have  a peculiar  resinous, 
aromatic  odor,  and  an  aromatic  and  astringent  taste. 

Constituents. — A.  K.  Bowman  (1869)  determined  the  amount  of  tannin  contained 
in  the  leaves  to  be  8.20  per  cent.  B.  T.  Chiles  (1873)  found  in  sweet  fern  a principle 
analogous  to  saponin,  resin,  volatile  oil,  gallic  acid  (?),  fat,  and  other  common  vegetable 
principles. 

Action  and  Uses. — Sweet  fern  is  stimulant  and  astringent ; it  probably  owes  the 
former  property  to  its  essential  oil,  which  is  also  the  cause  of  its  grateful  fragrance,  and 
the  latter  to  gallic  acid.  A decoction  of  it  is  sometimes  used  to  relieve  colic  and  check 
diarrhoea  and  as  a fomentation  in  rheumatism. 

CONDURANGO  CORTEX,  JP.  G.,  F.  It.— Condurango. 

The  bark  of  Gonolobus  Cundurango,  Triana , s.  Marsdenia  Cundurango,  Reichenbach. 

Nat.  Ord. — Asclepiadacese. 

Origin. — The  drug  which  first  attracted  attention  under  the  above  name  is  known  in 


CONDURANGO  CORTEX. 


527 


Peru  as  cundurango  hlanco,  also  as  mata  perro , or« “ dog-killer,”  and  comes  from  an  ascle- 
piadaceous  climber,  for  which  Dr.  Ruschenberger  proposed  the  name  Pseusmagennetus 
equatoriensis,  and  which  grows  in  localities  from  900  to  1500  M.  above  the  level  of  the 
sea.  The  shrub  is  from  3 to  9 M.  (10  to  30  feet)  high,  and  has  a smooth  ash-gray  bark, 
which  is  more  or  less  mottled  with  greenish  or  blackish  lichens.  The  bark  is  prepared 
for  market  by  pounding  the  stem  with  a mallet  to  detach  it,  and  then  drying  it  in  the 
sun,  generally  on  skins,  during  eight  or  ten  days. 

Description. — Condurango-bark  forms  quills  and  semi-cylindrical  pieces,  which  are 
about  10  Cm.  (4  inches)  long,  2 to  6 Mm.  (yL  to  \ inch)  thick,  but  are  often  much 
broken  ; the  outer  surface  is  brownish-gray,  and  somewhat  wrinkled  and  warty  ; the 
inner  surface  is  grayish  or  pale  brownish-white ; the  transverse  fracture  is  granular  and 
slightly  fibrous,  and  shows  under  the  thin  brown  cork  a whitish  or  yellowish-white  amy- 
laceous tissue,  which  is  radially  marked  by  wavy  bast-wedges  and  dotted  with  numerous 
brownish  or  yellow  stone-cells.  When  dry  it  is  without  odor ; its  taste  is  bitter  and 
somewhat  aromatic  and  acrid.  A clear  infusion  (1  to  5)  prepared  with  cold  water 
becomes  turbid  on  heating  and  clear  again  when  cooled. 

Constituents. — Dr.  Antisell  (1871)  ascertained  the  bark  to  contain,  besides  8 per 
cent,  of  moisture,  12  of  mineral  salts  and  80  of  vegetable  matter,  the  latter  consist- 
ing of  0.7  fat,  2.7  yellow  resin,  0.5  starch,  gum,  and  glucose,  and  12.6  tannin,  coloring- 
matters,  and  extractive,  the  remainder  being  cellulose  ; the  bitter  principle  was  not  iso- 
lated. G.  Vulpius  (1872)  found  a small  quantity  of  a bitter  principle,  and  in  1882  a 
glucoside,  condurangin , on  which  depends  the  peculiar  behavior  of  the  infusion.  Robert 
(1888)  showed  that  the  glucoside  of  Vulpius  was  a mixture  of  at  least  two  glucosides. 
Carrara  (1891)  isolated  another  glucoside,  which  differs  from  condurangin  especially  in 
regard  to  solubility.  F.  A.  Fluckiger  (1882)  found  in  minute  quantity  an  alkaloid  pos- 
sessing a strychnine-like  action. 

Other  Condurangos. — Dr.  Jos.  G.  Ayers,  U.  S.  N.  (1871),  ascertained  that  there  are  at  least 
ten  .different  shrubby  vines  designated  as  condurango,  said  to  mean  eagle-vine;  of  the  majority 
of  these  he  was  unable  to  collect  the  flowers  and  fruit.  The  origin  of  the  following,  however, 
has  been  determined : 

Gonolobus  tetragonus,  De  Candolle , yields  cundurango  de  paloina , from  Malacatos.  It  is  of  a 
dark-gray  or  brown  color,  and  on  the  dry  stem  is  slightly  wrinkled  longitudinally. 

Echites  hirsuta,  Ruiz  et  Pavon  (Apocynaceae),  yields  cundurango  de  paloma , from  Zaruma. 
The  bark  has  a soft,  pale-yellow,  or  white  corky  layer,  which  is  a line  or  more  thick. 

Echites  acuminata,  Ruiz  et  Pavon , yields  cundurango  de  pldtano.  The  bark  is  thin  and  pale- 
gray  on  the  outside. 

(Most  of  the  above  facts  have  been  taken  from  the  valuable  Report  on  the  Origin  and  Thera- 
peutic Properties  of  Cundurango , by  W.  S.  W.  Ruschenberger,  31.  1).,  U.  S.  N.,  Washington, 

Action  and  Uses. — Brunton  states  that  it  does  not  seem  to  have  any  definite 
physiological  action,  but  according  to  Robert  ( Therapeut.  Monatsheft .,  iii.  128)  condurangin 
acts  upon  the  central  nervous  system,  producing  in  animals,  according  to  the  dose,  weak- 
ness or  paralysis  of  the  limbs  or  violent  clonic  convulsions.  Among  the  other  symptoms 
were  noted  impairment  or  loss  of  appetite,  salivation,  and  vomiting.  The  circulatory 
system  seemed  unaffected.  In  1871-72  it  was  proclaimed  to  be  a cure  for  cancer , and 
for  a short  time  attracted  professional  notice.  It,  however,  speedily  lost  its  ephemeral 
reputation  when  it  was  proved  to  possess  no  medicinal  virtues  in  cancer  or  in  any  other 
disease,  except  such  as  belonged  to  various  aromatic  bitters,  allaying  vomiting  and 
improving  the  appetite.  It  was  particularly  credited  with  the  cure  of  cancer  of  the 
stomach , and  the  observations  of  Riess  in  1887  gave  some  weight  to  this  opinion  {Cen- 
tralbl.  f.  Ther .,  v.  238),  for  the  medicine  seems  to  have  palliated  the  digestive  derange- 
ments attending  that  disease  as  well  as  of  non-malignant  obstruction  and  dilatation  of 
the  stomach.  As  Oser  remarked  ( Lancet , May  19, 1888),  there  is  every  reason  to  believe 
the  cases  of  apparent  cure  were  really  instances  of  mistaken  diagnosis ; and,  more 
recently  {Bull,  de  Therap.,  cxix.  166),  Guyenot  showed  that  condurango  in  powder 
relieves  gastric  pain,  but  exerts  no  curative  action  on  gastric  diseases.  According  to  him, 
condurangin  is  a poisonous  agent,  irritating  the  stomach  and  producing  nervous  disorder 
in  animals.  According  to  some  writers,  it  has  been  useful  in  rheumatism  and  neuralgia. 
It  may  be  administered  in  a decoction  made  with  half  an  ounce  of  the  bark  in  a pint 
of  water,  Gm.  xvi  in  Gm.  500,  reduced  to  half  a pint,  of  which  a tablespoonful  is  given 
three  or  four  times  a day.  The  same  decoction  has  been  used  topically.  Robert  states 
that  the  decoction  must  be  inert,  since  boiling  water  coagulates  the  glucosides  on  which 
the  virtues  of  condurango  depend. 


528 


CONFECTION ES. — CONFECTI 0 OPII. 


OONPEOTIONES.— Confections. 

( Conserve  and  Electuaria). — Electuaries,  E. ; Conserves,  Electuaires,  Saccharoles  mous, 
Fr. ; Conserven , Latwergen,  G. 

These  preparations  are  now  but  little  employed  medicinally,  compared  with  the  exten- 
sive use  made  of  them  during  the  past  century,  when  many  medicinal  substances  were 
preserved  and  exhibited  in  the  form  of  soft  solids  sweetened  by  sugar  or  honey.  A dis- 
tinction was  then,  and  in  some  countries  is  still,  made  between  conserves  and  electuaries , 
which  in  the  British  and  U.  S.  P.  Pharmacopoeias  are  now  comprised  under  the  title 
of  confections. 

Conserves  were  made  by  covering  fresh  drugs  with  a layer  of  sugar ; afterward  by 
beating  fresh  vegetable  substances  with  sufficient  sugar  until  the  whole  was  converted 
into  a uniform  soft  mass.  As  indicated  by  the  name,  the  primary  object  in  view  was  to 
preserve  the  medicinal  virtues  of  the  plants  thus  treated,  and  incidentally  their  adminis- 
tration was  rendered  more  agreeable.  Fresh  plants  not  being  at  all  seasons  attainable, 
it  became  customary  to  use  some  in  their  dried  condition,  either  in  the  form  of  powder 
or  unpowdered,  and  to  beat  them  with  the  requisite  quantity  of  water  and  sugar.  Medici- 
nal  roots  not  containing  enough  moisture  were  usually  steeped  in  hot  water  before  the 
sugar  was  added. 

Electuaries  differ  from  conserves  mainly  in  being  mixtures  of  powders  with  pulps, 
syrups,  or  honey,  and  are  made  by  triturating  the  ingredients  together  in  a mortar.  The 
powders  should  be  very  fine ; when  extracts  are  to  be  added  they  are  previously  liquefied 
by  trituration  with  a little  water  or  other  suitable  menstruum,  and  gum-resins,  if  not  pul- 
verizable,  are  best  converted  into  an  emulsion  to  ensure  their  uniform  distribution.  Sol- 
uble as  well  as  insoluble  salts  may  be  given  in  this  form,  but  of  the  latter  kind  only  the 
lighter  ones  should  be  used,  since  heavy  insoluble  salts  are  apt  to  gradually  subside  in  the 
soft  mixture.  Of  other  insoluble  substances,  volatile  oils  should  first  he  rubbed  with  a 
portion  of  the  sugar  or  an  absorbent  powder,  and  fixed  oils  are  suspended  in  mucilage 
before  they  are  incorporated. 

If  intended  to  be  kept  on  hand,  electuaries  are  made  of  such  a consistence  that  they 
are  rather  soft,  but  at  the  same  time  firm  enough  to  prevent  the  separation  of  the  ingre- 
dients. For  immediate  use  they  are  made  somewhat  softer,  so  that  the  mixture,  when 
taken  upon  a spatula,  will  gradually  drop  off ; they  are  then  in  a condition  to  be  swallowed 
Without  mastication,  and  if  partial  separation  should  have  occurred  on  standing,  a uniform 
mixture  is  readily  obtained  again  by  stirring. 

If  the  main  excipients  of  electuaries  are  pulps  and  honey,  they  will  for  a long  time 
ensure  a proper  consistence  and  prevent  the  preparation  from  becoming  hard  and  dry. 
With  sugar  as  the  principal  constituent,  as  in  the  case  with  conserves,  the  gradual  evap- 
oration of  water  will  often  cause  it  to  become  hard  and  the  sugar  to  crystallize  ; it  should 
then  he  worked  over,  if  necessary,  with  the  addition  of  a little  water  or  glycerin,  but  the 
substitution  of  common  for  refined  sugar  should  not  he  resorted  to. 

Two  confections  only  have  been  admitted  in  the  U.  S.  P.,  and  one  in  the  P.  Gr.  Formu- 
las for  those  which  have  been  dismissed  will  be  found  under  the  head  of  the  principal 
drug  contained  therein. 

CONFECTIO  OPH,  Br. — Confection  of  Opium. 

Electuarium  theriaca. — Electuaire  opiace , Theriaque,  Fr. ; Opiumlatwerge,  Theriak,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Compound  Powder  of  Opium  100  grains  (or  1 part),  Syrup 
300  grains  (or  3 parts).  Mix. — Br.  40  grains  of  this  confection  represent  1 grain 
of  opium.  The  same  quantity  is  contained  in  80  grains  of  confection  made  by  the 
French  Codex,  which  orders  not  less  than  sixty  ingredients.  The  latter  resembles 
the  Mithridatum  and  Confectio  Damocratis  of  the  past  century,  which  preparations  con- 
tained about  one-fourth  of  the  above  proportion  of  opium.  Confection  of  opium  has 
very  properly  been  dismissed  from  the  U.  S.  P.  and  P.  G. 

Action  and  Uses. — Introduced  as  a substitute  for  the  ancient  compound,  theriaca, 
it  is  peculiarly  useful  in  simple  diarrhoea  affecting  persons  of  a debilitated  and  especially 
a gouty  habit  of  body,  and  feeble  digestion  associated  with  flatulent  colic,  and  during 
the  exhausting  heat  of  summer.  1 grain  of  opium  is  contained  in  36  grains  of  the 
mass,  Gm.  0.06  in  Gm.  2.40,  and  therefore,  as  the  bulk  of  the  medicine  may  be  objec- 
tionable where  a strong  anodyne  impression  is  desired,  the  proportion  of  the  narcotic 
may  be  increased  extemporaneously. 


CONFECTIO  PIPER  IS. — CONFECTI 0 SENNsE. 


529 


CONFECTIO  PIPERIS,  Br. — Confection  of  Pepper. 

Electuarimn  piper  is. — Electuaire  ( Confection ) de  poivre,  Fr. ; Pffferlaticerge , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Black  Pepper,  in  fine  powder,  2 ounces;  Caraway-Fruit, 
in  fine  powder,  3 ounces ; Clarified  lloney,  15  ounces.  Rub  them  well  together  in  a 
mortar. — Br. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  confection  was  prepared  in  imitation  of  Ward’s  paste, 
which  acquired  great  vogue  in  the  treatment  of  haemorrhoids  with  ulceration  or  a dis- 
charge of  mucus.  A piece  of  the  size  of  a nutmeg  may  be  taken  two  or  three  times  a 
day. 

CONFECTIO  ROS^E,  U.  S. — Confection  of  Rose. 

Confect io  rosse,  gallicse,  Br. ; Conserva  r osar um.-*-  Conserve  de  rose  rouge , Fr. ; Rosen- 
conserve,  Gr. 

Preparation. — Red  Rose,  in  No.  60  powder,  80  Gm. ; Sugar,  in  fine  powder,  640 
Gm. ; Clarified  Honey  120  Gm. ; Stronger  Rose-water,  160  Cc.  Rub  the  red  rose  with 
the  rose-water  heated  to  65°  C.  (150°  F.),  then  gradually  add  the  sugar  and  honey,  and 
beat  the  whole  together  until  thoroughly  mixed. — U.  S. 

Confection  of  rose  may  also  be  prepared  of  pharmacopoeial  strength  by  using — of  red 
rose,  in  No.  60  powder,  £ av.  oz.,  sugar  4 av.  ozs.,  clarified  honey  f av.  oz.,  and  stronger 
rose-water  1 fl.  oz. 

The  British  Pharmacopoeia  directs  1 pound  of  fresh  red-rose  petals  to  be  beaten  in  a 
stone  mortar  with  3 pounds  of  sugar. 

The  formula  of  the  French  Codex  is  similar  to  the  first  one,  but  omits  the  honey. 

With  a good  quality  of  powdered  red-rose  petals  a very  good  confection  is  obtained. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — It  is  used  as  an  excipient  in  Pilula  aloes  barbad.,  Pil. 
aloes  et  assafoetidae,  Pil.  aloes  et  ferri,  Pil.  aloes  et  myrrhse,  Pil.  aloes  socotr.,  Pil.  ferri 
carbonatis,  Pil.  hydrargyri,  Pil.  plumbi  cum  opio,  Br.,  and  is  occasionally  serviceable  for 
the  same  purpose  in  extemporaneous  pill-masses. 

CONFECTIO  ROS-£E  CANIN^E,  Br. — Confection  of  Hips. 

Confectio  cynosbati,  Conserva  cynorrhodi,  F.  Cod. — Conserve  de  cynorrhodon , Fr. ; Ham- 
butten- Conserve,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Hips,  deprived  of  tneir  seeds,  1 pound ; Refined  Sugar  2 
pounds.  Beat  the  hips  to  a pulp  in  a stone  mortar,  and  rub  the  pulp  through  a sieve ; 
then  add  the  sugar  and  rub  them  well  together. — Br. 

It  is  used  as  an  excipient  in  Pilula  quiniae,  Br. 

Action  and  Uses. — Confection  of  rose  or  of  hips  is  used  only  as  an  excipient 
for  substances  given  in  pilular  form,  and  which  it  is  desired  to  have  promptly  diffused  in 
the  stomach. 

CONFECTIO  SCAMMONH,  Br. — Confection  of  Scammony. 

Electuaire  ( Confection ) de  scammonee , Fr. ; Scammonium-Laticerge , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Scammony,  in  fine  powder,  3 ounces;  Ginger,  in  fine  pow- 
der, 1J  ounces;  Oil  of  Caraway  1 fluidrachm  ; Oil  of  Cloves  \ fluidrachm  ; Syrup  3 
fluidounces ; Clarified  Honey  1 \ ounces.  Rub  the  powders  with  the  syrup  and  the 
honey  into  a uniform  mass,  then  add  the  oils  and  mix. — Br. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  confection  is  intended,  by  the  stimulants  and  carmina- 
tives which  it  contains,  to  moderate  the  drastic  operation  of  the  associated  scammony. 
The  dose  is  from  Gm.  0.60-2.00  (10  to  30  grains). 


CONFECTIO  SENN^E,  TJ.  S.,  Br. — Confection  of  Senna. 

Electuarium  e senna,  P.  G.  ; Electuarium  de  senna  compositum , Electuarium  lenitivum. 
— Lenitive  electuary,  E. ; Electuaire  de  sene  compose,  Electuaire  lenitif  ‘ Fr.  ; Senna- Lat- 
werge,  G. ; Elettuario  lenitivo,  It. 

Preparation. — Senna,  in  No.  60  powder,  100  Gm. ; Cassia  Fistula,  bruised,  160 
Gin.;  Tamarind,  100  Gm.  ; Prune,  sliced,  70  Gm. ; Fig,  bruised,  120  Gm. ; Sugar,  in 
fine  powder,  555  Gm.  ; Oil  of  Coriander,  5 Gm.  ; Water,  a sufficient  quantity;  to  make 
1000  Gm.  Place  the  cassia  fistula,  tamarind,  prune,  and  fig  in  a close  vessel  with  500 
34 


530 


CONFECTIO  S ULPU  URIS. — CONIUM. 


Cc.  of  water  and  digest  for  three  hours  by  means  of  a water-bath.  Separate  the  coarser 
portions  with  the  hand,  and  rub  the  pulpy  mass,  first  through  a coarse  hair-sieve,  and 
then  through  a fine  one,  or  through  a muslin  cloth.  Mix  the  residue  with  150  Cc.  of 
water,  and,  having  digested  the  mixture  for  a short  time,  treat  it  as  before,  and  add  the 
product  to  the  pulpy  mass  first  obtained.  Then,  by  means  of  a water-bath,  dissolve  the 
sugar  in  the  pulpy  liquid,  and  evaporate  the  whole,  in  a tared  vessel,  until  it  weighs  895 
Gm.  Lastly,  add  the  senna  and  the  oil  of  coriander,  and  incorporate  them  thoroughly 
with  the  other  ingredients  while  they  are  yet  warm. 

To  make  20  av.  ozs.  of  confection  of  senna  the  following  quantities  should  be  used: 
Senna,  in  No.  60  powder,  2 oz. ; cassia  fistula,  bruised,  3 oz.  and  88  grains ; tamarind, 
2 ozs.;  prune,  sliced,  1 oz.  and  175  grains;  fig,  bruised,  2 oz.  and  175  grains;  sugar 

11  oz. ; oil  of  coriander  46  minims  ; water  a sufficient  quantity.  For  the  first  treatment 
with  water  10  fl.  oz.  may  be  used,  and  for  the  second  treatment  31  fl.  oz.  Before  add- 
ing the  senna  and  oil  of  coriander  the  pulpy  mass  should  be  evaporated  to  18  av.  oz. 

Take  of  senna,  in  fine  powder,  7 ounces ; coriander-fruit,  in  fine  powder,  3 ounces ; figs 

12  ounces;  tamarind  9 ounces ; cassia-pulp  9 ounces;  prunes  6 ounces;  extract  of  licor- 
ice 1 ounce  ; refined  sugar  30  ounces ; distilled  water  a sufficiency.  Boil  the  figs  and 
prunes  gently  with  24  ounces  of  distilled  water  in  a covered  vessel  for  four  hours;  then, 
having  added  more  distilled  water  to  make  up  the  quantity  to  its  original  volume,  mix 
the  tamarind  and  cassia-pulp,  digest  for  four  hours,  and  rub  the  softened  pulp  of  the 
fruits  through  a hair-sieve,  rejecting  the  seeds  and  other  hard  parts.  To  the  pulped  prod- 
uct add  the  sugar  and  extract  of  licorice,  and  dissolve  them  with  a gentle  heat ; while 
the  mixture  is  still  warm  add  to  it  gradually  the  mixed  senna  and  coriander  powders, 
and  mix  the  whole  thoroughly,  making  the  weight  of  the  resulting  confection  75  ounces 
either  by  evaporation  or  by  addition  of  more  distilled  water. — Br. 

Mix  powdered  senna  1 part ; simple  syrup  4 parts ; purified  tamarind-pulp  5 parts, 
and  warm  by  means  of  a steam-bath.  It  is  greenish-brown. — P.  G. 

The  last  formula  is  the  simplest,  and  yields  a less  pleasant  but  equally  effectual  prep- 
aration. That  of  the  French  Codex  is  of  more  complex  composition. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  confection  forms  an  eligible  basis  for  various  purgative 
compounds,  and  is  itself  a mild  and  efficient  laxative  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  8 (120  grains). 

CONFECTIO  SULPHURIS,  Confection  of  Sulphur. 

Electuarium  sulphuris. — Elect uaire  ( Opiat ) de  soufre , Fr. ; Schwefel-Latwerge , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Sublimed  Sulphur  4 ounces;  Acid  Tartrate  of  Potassium, 
in  powder,  1 ounce;  Syrup  of  Orange-Peel  4 fluidounces ; Tragacanth,  in  powder,  18 
grains.  Bub  them  well  together. — Br. 

Action  and  Uses. — Like  confections  of  senna,  this  preparation  is  well  adapted  to 
procure  copious  semi-solid  stools  without  actively  purging  or  causing  irritation  of  the 
rectum.  These  qualities  adapt  it  for  use  as  a laxative  in  haemorrhoidal  cases.  The  dose 
is  from  Gm.  4-8  (1  to  2 drachms). 

CONFECTIO  TEREBINTHHNLE,  1 3r. — Confection  of  Turpentine. 

Electuarium  terebinthinatum. — Electuaire  ( Opiat ) terebenthine , Fr.  ; Terpentinbl-Lat- 
werge , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Oil  of  Turpentine  1 fluidounce ; Liquorice-Root,  in  powder, 
1 ounce ; Clarified  Honey  2 ounces.  Rub  the  oil  of  turpentine  with  the  liquorice,  add 
the  honey,  and  mix  to  a uniform  consistence. — Br. 

Action  and  Uses. — In  this  mixture  the  repulsive  taste  of  the  oil  of  turpentine  is 
masked  by  the  liquorice-powder  more  thoroughly  than  can  be  effected  in  an  emulsion.  It 
is  used  occasionally  for  passive  haemorrhage , flatulence,  lumbricoid  worms , rheumatism, 
etc.  The  dose  is  Gm.  4-8  (1  or  2 drachms). 


CONIUM.  U.  S.,Br JP.  G.— Conium. 

Hemlock , Poison  or  spotted  hemlock , E. ; Grand  cigue , Cigue  officinale , Fr.  ; Schierling , 
Gefleckter  Schierling , G.  ; Cicuta  maggiore.  It. ; Cicuta.  mayor , Sp. 

Conium  maculatum,  Linne , s.  Cicuta  maculata,  Lamarck.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med, 
Plants , 118. 

Nat.  Ord. — Umbelliferse,  Campylospermse. 


CONIUM. 


531 


Official  Parts. — 1.  Conii  folia,  Br. ; Herba  conii,  P.  G. ; Herba  cicutae  majo- 
ris.— Hemlock-leaves,  E. ; Feuilles  de  grande  cigue,  Fr. ; Schierlingskraut,  Schierlings- 
Blatter,  G. 

The  leaves,  also  fresh  leaves  and  young  branches,  Br. 

2.  Conium,  U.  S. ; Conii  Fructus , Br. — Hemlock-fruits,  E.;  Fruits  de  grande  cigue.  Fr. ; 
Schierlingsfriichte,  G. 

The  full-grown  fruit,  gathered  while  yet  green. 

Origin. — Spotted  hemlock  is  indigenous  to  the  temperate  countries  of  Asia,  Europe, 
and  Northern  Africa,  and  has  been  naturalized  in  some  portions  of  New  England  and 
New  York  and  in  South  America.  It  grows  in  waste  places  and 
along  streams.  It  has  a biennial,  whitish,  nearly  simple  or  some-  Fig.  83. 

what  branched  root,  and  a round  furrowed  stem,  which  is  1.8  to 
2.4  M.  (6  to  8 feet)  high,  hollow  except  at  the  joints,  smooth, 
glaucous,  and  covered  with  numerous  brown  or  brown-red  spots. 

The  numerous  branches  are  terminated  by  umbels  of  ten  or  twenty 
rays,  with  the  one-sided  involucels  of  three  or  four  ovate  or  lan- 
ceolate bracts  united  at  the  base,  and  with  small  white  flowers. 

Description. — 1.  The  Leaves.  The  lower  leaves  are  about 
30  Cm.  (1  foot)  long,  upon  long,  hollow,  and  sheathing  petioles 
broadly  ovate  or  triangular  in  general  outline,  pinnately  decom- 
pound, with  the  pinnae  oblong-lanceolate,  pinnatifid,  or  incised,  the 
upper  ones  toothed,  each  lobe  or  tooth  terminating  with  a small  eters . magmfied  8 diam' 
whitish  point.  The  upper  leaves  are  smaller,  almost  sessile,  and 

less  decompound ; all  are  smooth.  In  the  fresh  state  they  are  of  a dull  dark-green  color 
above,  paler  and  somewhat  glossy  beneath,  and  acquire  on  drying  a dull  grayish-green 
color  and  a characteristic  odor,  which  has  been  likened  to  that  of  the  urine  of  mice ; 
their  taste  is  nauseous,  saline,  somewhat  bitter  and  acrid.  They  are  collected  from  plants 
in  full  bloom  when  the  fruit  begins  to  form  ; on  drying  they  lose  about  85  per  cent,  in 
weight. 

The  leaves  of  iEthusa  Cynapium,  Linne  (Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med  Plants , 125), 
Anthriscus  sylvestris,  Hoffmann , and  different  species  of  Chaerophyllum,  have  been 
occasionally  collected  in  place  of  conium  ; but  the  plants  have  only  a superficial  resem- 
blance to  the  latter,  and  the  leaves  do  not  agree  with  all  the  characters  given  above. 
The  first  plant  is  known  as  Fool’s  parsley,  Small  hemlock,  E. ; Ethuse,  Petite  cigue, 
Ache  des  chiens,  Fr.  ; Hundspetersilie,  Gartenschierling,  G.  It  is  indigenous  to  Europe 
and  Northern  Asia,  and  is  somewhat  naturalized  in  North  America.  The  leaves  resemble 
conium-leaves  in  outline  and  subdivision,  but  the  secondary  pinnae  are  rhomboid-ovate 
and  pinnatifid  or  bipinnatifid,  with  narrow  lanceolate  acute  segments ; they  are  dark- 
green  above,  somewhat  paler  and  glossy  beneath,  and  when  bruised  have  a disagreeable 
somewhat  leek-like  odor.  The  other  plants  mentioned  have  pubescent  or  ciliate  leaflets. 

2.  The  Fruit.  The  fruit  is  about  3 Mm.  (£  inch)  long,  broadly  ovate,  somewhat 
compressed  at  the  sides,  crowned  with  the  short  stylopodium,  and  readily  separating  into 
the  two  mericarps,  each  one  marked  on  the  back  with  five  wavy  crenate  ribs,  which 
become  nearly  smooth  in  the  ripe  fruit.  The  furrows  are  faintly  wrinkled  longitudinally, 
and,  like  the  face,  destitute  of  oil-tubes.  The  integuments  of  the  fruit  are  convex  upon 
the  face  and  penetrate  into  the  albumen,  which  upon  a transverse  section  shows  a round- 
ish heart-shaped  or  reniform  outline.  The  fruit  has  a green  or  gray-green  color,  or  is 
grayish  if  collected  as  directed  by  the  British  Pharmacopoeia.  It  is  nearly  inodorous 
and  has  but  a slight  taste : when  triturated  with  an  alkali,  it  evolves  the  disagreeable 
I odor  of  the  leaves.  Conium-fruit  has  been  occasionally  observed  as  an  adulteration  of 
anise,  to  which,  when  ripe,  it  bears  some  resemblance. 

Constituents. — The  most  important  constituent  of  both  drugs  is  the  volatile  alkaloid 
coniine,  or  ermine , which,  according  to  A.  W.  Hofmann  (1881),  has  the  formula  C8II17N. 
Giseke  (1827)  obtained  it  as  an  impure  sulphate;  Geiger  (1831)  prepared  it  pure.  It  is 
contained  in  the  distillate,  prepared  with  an  alkali  from  the  drug  or  its  extract,  and  freed 
from  ammonia  by  converting  it  into  sulphate  and  exhausting  this  with  a mixture  of  strong 
alcohol  and  ether,  which  leaves  ammonium  sulphate  undissolved  ; coniine  may  then  be  lib- 
erated by  treatment  with  an  alkali  and  distillation,  bat,  though  colorless,  is  accompanied 
by  conhydrine  or  conydrine , and  often  by  methylconiine,  the  former  of  which  is  left  in  the 
retort  on  the  careful  distillation  of  the  colorless  crude  coniine.  Conhydrine  forms  pearly 
iridescent  laminae  which  fuse  at  120.6°  C.  (249°  F.),  sublime  above  150°  C.  (302°  F.), 
boil  at  226°  C.  (438.8°  F.),  and  have  a slight  odor  of  coniine.  It  was  discovered  by 


Conium  : fruit  and  longitu- 
dinal section,  magnified  3 
diameters;  transverse  sec- 


532 


CONIUM. 


Wertheim  (1856).  Examined  by  A.  W.  Hoffmann  (1882),  it  was  found  to  have  the 
composition,  C8H17NO,  assigned  to  it  by  Wertheim  ; but  on  treatment  with  phosphoric 
anhydride  or  strong  hydrochloric  acid  it  yields  an  oily  distillate  of  a coniine-like  odor, 
containing  several  bodies  not  identical  with  this  base.  Coniine  is  a colorless,  inflamma- 
ble, oily  liquid,  specific  gravity  0.88  to  0.89,  has  a strong  alkaline  reaction,  a penetrating 
suffocating  odor,  and  when  pure  the  boiling-point  is  168°  to  169°  C.  (334.4  to  336.2°  F.). 
It  is  soluble  in  all  proportions  in  alcohol,  ether,  chloroform,  benzene,  benzin,  and  fixed  oils, 
is  less  freely  soluble  in  carbon  disulphide,  and  requires  100  parts  of  cold  water  for  solu- 
tion, this  solution  becoming  turbid  on  warming.  Like  ammonia,  it  forms  dense  white 
fumes  with  volatile  acids,  precipitates  most  metallic  salts,  some  of  the  precipitates,  like 
silver,  being  soluble  in  excess,  and  it  neutralizes  acids,  forming  salts  which  are  freely 
soluble  in  water  and  alcohol,  are  usually  deliquescent,  and  occasionally  uncrystallizable, 
and  are  not  precipitated  by  platinic  chloride.  Its  hydrochlorate  and  hydrobromate  are, 
according  to  A.  W.  Hoffmann  (1881),  easily  obtained  by  dissolving  coniine  in  anhydrous 
ether  and  passing  into  the  solution  dry  hydrochloric  or  hydrobromic  acid  gas.  The  salts, 
being  insoluble  in  ether,  are  precipitated  in  a white  crystalline  form  ; both  are  very 
soluble  in  water  and  alcohol,  are  not  deliquescent,  and  may  be  dried  at  100°  C.  (212° 
F.)  without  decomposition.  Coniine  is  dextro-rotatory,  while  paraconiine,  C8H15N,  so 
called  from  the  supposed  identity  of  its  formula  with  that  of  coniine,  is  optically  indif- 
ferent. This  alkaloid  was  artificially  prepared  by  Ladenburg  (1889),  it  being  shown  by 
Hoffmann  to  be  a-propylpiperidine. 

Conium-fruit  contains,  besides  the  usual  principles,  also  a fixed  oil,  a minute  portion 
of  non-poisonous  volatile  oil  having  the  odor  of  cumin,  and  probably  malic  acid  in  com- 
bination with  the  alkaloids.  The  herb  contains  acetates  and  malates,  and  a non-poison- 
ous volatile  oil  of  a disagreeable  odor,  and  yields  about  12  per  cent,  of  ash.  The  amount 
of  alkaloid  in  the  herb  is  minute,  but  appears  to  vary  ; the  mature  but  still  green  fruit 
contains  about  0.8  per  cent,  or  less  of  coniine ; conhydrine  is  always  present  in  very 
minute  proportion. 

The  herb  of  fool’s  parsley  was  stated  by  Ficinus  to  contain  a crystallizable  poisonous 
alkaloid,  cynapine , said  to  be  soluble  in  water  and  alcohol,  but  insoluble  in  ether.  But 
Walz  (1859)  and  Bernhardt  (1880)  obtained  from  the  fruit  a volatile  oily  base  resem- 
bling coniine. 

Action  and  Uses. — There  is  no  apparent  relation  between  the  physiological  and 
the  toxical  effects  of  conium  on  the  one  hand  and  its  medicinal  operation  on  the  other, 
and  in  this  it  resembles  a very  large  number  of  medicines.  It  occasions  no  mental  disorder 
nor  drowsiness,  the  mind  remaining  calm  but  active.  Dr.  John  Harley,  who  studied  this 
subject  with  peculiar  thoroughness,  states  the  following  as  the  effects  of  a full  dose  of 
conium-juice  given  to  palliate  chronic  muscular  spasm  : “ The  whole  muscular  system  is 
completely  relaxed.  The  orbicularis  is  incapable  of  resistance.  The  movements  of  the 
eyeball  are  very  sluggish,  and  there  is  more  or  less  complete  ptosis.  The  muscles  of 
mastication  and  deglutition  are  nearly  paralyzed.  Speech  is  slow  and  effected  with  exer- 
tion ; the  voice  is  gruff,  from  relaxation  of  the  laryngeal  muscles.  Withal,  the  heart 
and  breathing  are  normal,  sensation  and  intelligence  are  perfect,  and  the  mind  is  calm.” 
Even  in  fatal  cases  the  pulse  and  respiration  may  be  natural  until  the  approach  of  death, 
which  often  is  preceded  by  convulsions.  The  face  is  apt  to  be  pale,  and  the  hands  and 
feet  are  cold  and  either  pale  or  bluish.  In  the  case  of  an  infant,  aged  eight  months,  5 
grains  of  extract  of  conium,  5 grains  of  potassium  bromide,  and  a teaspoonful  of  chloro- 
form-water were  given  in  one  dose.  The  lower  limbs  were  paralyzed,  the  pupils  dilated, 
the  face  livid,  and  the  breathing  diaphragmatic.  Death  occurred  in  seven  hours 
(Lancet,  July  25,  1885).  Doubtless  the  associated  medicines  modified  the  operation  of 
the  conium,  but  increased,  rather  than  lessened,  its  action.  The  case  is  related  by 
Schulze  of  a student  who  was  poisoned  by  smelling  at  an  open  bottle  of  conium 
( Tlierap . Gaz.,  xi.  572).  In  this  case  the  headache  and  the  diaphoresis  were  very 
great.  After  death  from  conium-poisoning  no  lesions  are  uniformly  found. 

Conium  has  had  a wide  reputation  for  its  virtues  in  the  treatment  of  cancer , and  there 
is  no  doubt  that  it  has  removed  tumors  supposed  to  be  cancerous,  both  when  used 
as  a dressing  and  when  given  internally.  That  when  applied  locally  it  mitigates  the 
pain  and  improves  the  condition  of  sores  regarded  as  open  cancer  is  certain.  It  is  there- 
fore a medicine  not  to  be  lightly  neglected  in  cases  of  this  kind.  In  scrofulous  glandular 
sores  similar  good  effects  are  sometimes  observed.  Enlargement  and  induration  of  the 
liver  by  simple  engorgement  or  by  a degree  of  hyperplasia,  with  the  attendant  symptoms, 
jaundice  and  ascites,  appear  tQ  have  been  cured  by  a prolonged  use  of  the  medicine. 

\ 


CON IV  M. 


533 


During  a like  use  of  it  the  mammary  gland  has  been  known  to  become  atrophied  and  its 
secretion  to  have  been  gradually  suspended.  Conium  plasters  were  formerly  used  to  dry 
up  the  milk.  Dolan  has  praised  it  for  chronic  inflammation  of  the  womb  and  as  an 
“ excellent  sedative  for  backache  and  for  the  sexual  organs.”  Cutaneous  affections , 
especially  those  of  a strumous  nature,  appear  to  be  favorably  modified  by  this  medicine. 
The  reputed  benefits  of  conium  in  melancholy  seem  to  be  attributable  rather  to  the  asso- 
ciated treatment,  except  where  the  mental  disorder  depended  upon  one  of  the  visceral 
infarctions  above  alluded  to.  In  mania,  its  sedative  operation  has  been  used  to  control 
violence,  and  in  erotic  insanity  it  appears  to  lessen  the  evidences  of  sexual  excitement. 
For  the  latter  purpose  it  was  anciently  employed.  A plaster  containing  equal  propor- 
tions of  conium  and  belladonna  extracts  is  an  efficient  palliative  of  intercostal  neuralgia 
and  of  palpitation  of  the  heart.  An  ointment  made  by  mixing  the  inspissated  juice  of 
conium  with  lanolin  is  related  by  Whitla  ( Practitioner , xl.  250)  to  have  palliated  pain 
and  itching  in  various  affections  of  the  anus.  In  many  neuralgic  affections  conium  is 
reputed  to  be  efficacious,  but  it  is  probably  in  those  only  in  which  the  paroxysm  is  due 
to  congestion  or  other  pressure  upon  nervous  trunks.  The  same  may  be  said  of  its  use 
in  ophthalmia  with  photophobia , in  toothache , whooping  cough , asthma , spasmodic  laryn- 
gitis, laryngismus  stridulus , and  epilepsy  due  to  congested  conditions  of  the  motor  centres. 
Wolfenden  has  proposed  hydrobromate  of  coniine  in  epilepsy.  He  administered  it  in 
doses  of  from  Gm.  0.06-0.12  (gr.  j—  ij)  a day  to  children.  It  tends  to  cause  giddiness 
and  congestion  of  the  eyes  ( Practitioner , xxxii.  431).  Its  efficiency  in  some  aggravated 
cases  of  chorea  is  still  more  striking.  In  this  and  other  spasmodic  affections  the  full 
development  of  its  physiological  operation  is  essential  to  the  cure.  It  would  seem  to  be 
indicated  in  puerperal  and  infantile  convulsions  and  tetanus.  In  the  last-named  disease  it 
is  said  to  have  effected  a cure  in  four  out  of  six  cases  (Chew,  Med.  Record , xix.  38),  and 
a case  of  traumatic  and  one  of  idiopathic  tetanus  had  a similar  issue  under  the  care  of 
Demme  ( Centralb . f.  Ther.,  v.  218;  vi.  180).  Conium  has  been  used  to  advantage  as 
an  adjuvant  to  quinine  in  malarial  diseases  (Newton,  Med.  Record , xxv.  63).  Dr. 
Harley  has  called  attention  to  the  utility  of  conium-juice  in  trismus , in  spasm  of  the 
orbicularis  and  of  the  gullet , in  dislocations  of  the  joints  where  the  action  of  powerful 
muscles  resists  the  efforts  made  to  reduce  them,  and  in  cases  of  the  impaction  of  artificial 
teeth  in  the  oesophagus.  He  dwells  upon  the  important  circumstance  that  patients  under 
its  influence  are  not  prevented  from  assisting  the  surgeon  by  their  efforts  and  guiding 
him  by  their  sensations. 

Conium  and  its  preparations  are  contraindicated  in  cases  of  great  exhaustion  and 
debility.  Diseases  interfering  with  the  rhythm  of  the  heart  suggest  a cautious  use  of 
the  medicine. 

The  proper  antidotes  to  conium-poisoning  are  evacuation  of  the  stomach  and  the  use 
of  alcoholic  stimulants,  with  external  warmth. 

Supposing  the  preparation  to  be  good — which  it  seldom  is — the  extract  of  conium  may 
be  given  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.06  (gr.  j),  repeated  at  intervals  of  an  hour  or  more  until  its 
physiological  operation  begins  to  appear.  The  commencing  dose  of  coniine  is  stated  by 
different  physicians  at  Gm.  0.001  (gr.  ^),  or  even  less,  and  the  hypodermic  dose  of 
bromohydrate  of  coniine,  Gm.  0.01  (gr.  J).  According  to  Tuloup,  Audhouin,  and 
others,  no  smaller  amount  than  Gm.  0.10  (gr.  ij)  of  the  salt  in  twenty-four  hours  will 
have  much  effect,  and  this  quantity  should  be  used  in  two  doses,  and  pretty  rapidly 
increased  until  5 or  6 grains  a day  are  given.  For  hypodermic  use  may  be  employed  a 
solution  of  1 Gm.  of  bromohydrate  of  coniine  in  18  Gm.  of  distilled  water.  Each  Gm. 
will  contain  about  5 Cgm.  of  the  salt,  of  which  one-eighth  may  be  used  for  a first  injection, 
but  subsequently  the  quantity  may  be  rapidly  increased  to  1 Gm.,  or  even  2 or  3 Gm. 
“ The  initial  dose  for  hypodermic  injections  does  not  differ  much  from  what  is  necessary 
by  the  stomach.”  By  the  latter  way  it  is  said  that  if  the  doses  are  gradually  increased, 
5 or  even  6 grains  of  the  salt  may  be  given  in  the  course  of  twenty-four  hours  without 
injury  (Tuloup,  Annuaire  de  Therap .,  1880,  p.  15). 

iETHUSA  CYNAPIUM,  fooFs  parsley , has  generally  been  alleged  to  be  poisonous,  like 
conium  or  aconite  (Taylor’s  Med.  Jurisp.,  1865,  p.  351),  and  Harley  collected  a number 
of  cases  and  statements  which  were  supposed  to  prove  its  poisonous  action  ; but  an 
extended  series  of  experiments  led  him  to  conclude  that  the  plant  is  not  in  any  degree 
poisonous  (St.  Thomas's  Hosp.  Rep .,  N.  S.  iv.  63  ; x.  257).  In  1882  this  conclusion  was 
fully  confirmed  by  Tanret,  who  believes  the  erroneous  statements  referred  to  arose  from 
confounding  iEthusa  cynapium  with  Conium  maculatum,  which  it  closely  resembles  in 
appearance  {Bull,  de  Therap. , ciii.  22). 


534 


CONTRA  YERVA.—CONVALLARIA. 


CONTRAYERVA.— Contrayerva. 

Contrayerve , Br.  ; Bezoarwurzel , Giftwurzel , G. ; Contrayerba , Sp. 

The  root  of  Dorstenia  Contrayerva,  Linne , and  D.  brasiliensis,  Lamarck. 

Nat.  Ord. — Urticacene,  Artocarpeae. 

Origin. — The  first  species  is  indigenous  to  the  West  Indies,  Central  America,  and 
southward  to  Peru  ; the  second,  to  Brazil  and  other  parts  of  South  America.  Both  are 
acquiescent  perennials,  with  a fleshy  quadrangular  or  circular  inflorescence,  in  which  the 
minute  nutlets  are  imbedded. 

Description. — The  root  has  one  or  two  short  annulate  heads,  is  fusiform,  about 
12  Mm.  (I  inch)  thick,  50  or  75  Mm.  (2  or  3 inches)  long,  and  below  divided  into  fine 
fibres  ; that  of  the  second  species  is  globular-ovate,  about  f inch  long,  annulate,  and  beset 
with  fine  fibres.  The  color  is  reddish-brown,  internally  whitish.  The  bark  is  thick,  with 
the  inner  portion  of  a punctate  appearance,  and  encloses  a brownish-yellow  wood  which 
is  radiately  marked  by  the  medullary  rays.  The  root  has  a rather  unpleasant  odor  and  a 
bitter  and  acrid  taste. 

Dorstenia  dracena,  Linne , D.  opifera,  Martius , D.  tubicina,  Ruiz  et  Pavon , and  perhaps 
other  species,  yield  similar  roots. 

Constituents. — Geiger  obtained  from  the  root  some  volatile  oil,  resin,  starch,  and  an 
amorphous  bitter  principle. 

Action  and  Uses. — Contrayerva  (meaning  “ antidotal  plant  ”)  appears  to  be  a 
stimulant  bitter  tonic ; in  its  native  country  it  is  used  in  low  fevers,  very  much  as  ser- 
pentaria  is  elsewhere,  and  also  as  a remedy,  both  internal  and  local,  for  the  bites  of 
serpents.  The  dose  of  the  powdered  root  is  stated  to  be  Gm.  2 (1  drachm). 

CON VALL ARIA,  XI.  S. — Convallaria. 

Lilium  convallium. — Lily  of  the  Valley , E. ; Muguet , Fr. ; Maiblumen , G. ; Mu  ghetto, 
It. ; Liris  de  los  valles,  Sp. 

The  rhizome  and  rootlets  of  Convallaria  majalis,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Liliaceae,  Asparaginese. 

Origin. — This  stemless  perennial  is  indigenous  to  Europe,  Northern  Asia,  and  to  the 
Alleghany  Mountains  of  the  United  States  from  Virginia  southward.  It  is  frequently 
cultivated  in  gardens,  and  has  spontaneously  appeared  in  several  places.  It  has  a creep- 
ing, whitish,  much-branching  rhizome  of  the  thickness  of  a quill,  two,  or  occasionally 
three,  elliptic  and  smooth  radical  leaves,  and  a one-sided  raceme  of  about  ten  nodding 
white  flowers,  which  are  about  6 Mm.  (4  inch)  long,  bell-shaped,  six-lobed,  with  the  lobes 
recurved,  have  six  stamens  inserted  near  the  base  of  the  perianth,  and  produce  globular, 
few-seeded  red  berries.  The  cultivated  flowers  are  somewhat  larger.  They  are  very 
fragrant  and  have  a bitter  and  acrid  taste.  The  flowers  lose  on  drying  about  85  per  cent, 
of  their  weight. 

Description.— The  rhizome  is  of  horizontal  growth,  cylindrical,  about  3 Mm.  (4 
inch)  thick,  and  somewhat  branched  ; externally  it  is  whitish  and  wrinkled.  The  inter- 
nodes are  from  2 to  6 Cm.  (-|  to  24  inches)  long,  and  are  marked  with  a few  circular 
scars  ; the  joints  are  annulate,  and  are  beset  with  a circlet  of  eight  or  ten  rootlets,  which 
are  long,  branched,  and  about  1 Mm.  (J-5  inch)  in  thickness.  The  fibrous  fracture  shows 
a white  interior.  The  rhizome  contains  a small  number  of  fibro-vascular  bundles  enclosed 
in  a thick-walled  nucleus  sheath,  and  imbedded  in  thin-walled  parenchyme.  Convallaria 
has  a peculiar  pleasant  odor  and  a sweetish,  bitter,  and  somewhat  acrid  taste. 

Constituents. — The  odorous  principle  of  the  flowers  was  obtained  by  Herberger 
(1835)  in  the  form  of  volatile  crystals  possessing  a strong  odor,  occasioning  headache, 
but  very  fragrant  when  largely  diluted.  The  bitter  principle  of  the  plant  is  the  glucoside 
convalla.marin , C23Il44012,  which  was  isolated  by  Walz  (1858)  as  a white  somewhat  crys- 
talline powder,  has  a bitter-sweet  taste,  is  soluble  in  water,  alcohol,  and  methylic  alcohol, 
and  insoluble  in  ether,  chloroform,  and  amylic  alcohol  (S£e)  ; but  tbe  last  two  solvents, 
according  to  Dragendorff  (1871),  take  it  up  from  the  acidulated  solution.  It  dissolves  in- 
sulphuric  acid  with  a brown  color,  and,  after  previous  moistening  with  water,  with  a violet 
color,  the  solution  becoming  colorless  by  more  water.  Its  aqueous  solution  is  precipitated 
by  tannin,  but  not  by  lead  salts,  and  when  boiled  with  dilute  acids  it  yields  sugar  and 
convallamaretin.  See  (1882)  obtained  the  best  results  with  the  plant  collected  in  August ; 
on  precipitating  the  alcoholic  tincture  with  basic  lead  acetate,  evaporating,  diluting  with 
water,  neutralizing  with  sodium  carbonate,  precipitating  wdth  tannin,  dissolving  the  pre- 


CONVALLARIA. 


535 


cipitate  in  60  per  cent,  alcohol,  and  decomposing  with  zinc  oxide,  0.6  per  cent,  of  conval- 
lamarin  was  obtained.  He  also  isolated  the  acrid  principle  convallarh , C34H6,011.  in  the 
form  of  rectangular  prisms,  which  are  soluble  in  alcohol,  insoluble  in  ether,  and  sparingly 
soluble  in  water,  but  foaming  with  it  like  saponin.  On  being  boiled  with  dilute  acids  it  is 
split  into  sugar  and  convallaretin. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparation. — Extractum  convallaria.  The  most  effica- 
cious extract  is  prepared  with  water  from  the  flowers  and  scapes,  mixed  with  one-third 
of  their  weight  of  roots  and  leaves,  collected  in  August  (See). 

Allied  Plants. — Polygonatum  multiflorum,  Allioni  (Convallaria  multiflora,  Linne ),  and  Pol. 
officinale,  Allioni  (Conv.  Polygonatum,  Linne). — Solomon’s  seal,  E.;  Sceau  de  Salomon, 
Genouillet,  Fr. ; Weisswurzel,  Salomon's  Siegel,  G. — The  plants  are  indigenous  to  Europe  and 
Northern  Asia,  and  have  simple  stems  with  alternate  sessile  leaves,  the  axils  of  which  contain 
one  to  five  cylindrical  flowers.  The  rhizome  is  horizontal,  brownish-yellow,  about  6 inches  long, 
nearly  cylindrical,  jointed,  and  bears  on  the  upper  side  of  each  joint  a circular  concave  stem-scar; 
internally  it  is  whitish,  rather  spongy,  and  has  a zone  of  many  scattered  wood-bundles  near  the 
centre.  Walz  found  in  the  rhizome  and  herb  convallarin,  asparagin,  mucilage,  sugar,  starch, 
pectin,  etc. 

Polygonatum  giganteum.  Dietrich  (Conv.  canaliculata,  Willdenow),  and  Pol.  biflorum,  Elliott 
(Conv.  biflora,  Walter ),  which  are  North  American  species,  have  rhizomes  agreeing  with  the 
description  just  given,  and  are  collected  here  as  Solomon’s  seal. 

Smilacina  racemosa,  Desfontaines , likewise  indigenous  to  North  America,  has  a similar  rhi- 
zome, but  with  shorter  and  thicker  joints,  and  is  known  as  false  Solomon's  seal. 

Action  and  Uses. — Convallaria  acts  upon  the  heart  in  nearly  the  same  manner  as 
digitalis,  and  upon  the  digestive  canal  as  an  emetic  or  a purgative.  The  dried  flowers  of 
convallaria  have  been  used  in  powder  as  a.  sternutatory  and  errhine,  and  in  fomentations 
for  the  removal  of  bruises , ecchymoses , and  freckles , and  they,  as  well  as  the  root,  for  the 
cure  of  worms , intermittent  fever , and  epilepsy.  In  Russia  several  species  of  convallaria 
are  used  as  local  anodynes,  and  in  that  country  it  was  first  employed  in  the  removal  of 
dropsy.  The  thorough  and  systematic  observations  of  competent  physicians  have 
demonstrated  that  convallaria  as  a remedy  for  dropsy  is  indicated  in  the  same  cases 
for  which  digitalis  is  commonly  employed — cases  of  dropsical  effusion  depending  upon 
a positive  or  a relative  inability  of  the  heart  to  carry  on  the  circulation  of  the  blood 
through  its  own  cavities,  and  which  are  clinically  denoted  by  its  palpitation  and 
arhythmical  movements,  and  by  signs  of  obstruction  in  other  organs,  such  as  dyspnoea, 
hepatic  distension,  gastric  disorder,  a diminished  secretion  of  urine,  with  an  excess 
of  solids,  oedema  of  the  feet,  etc.  The  diuretic  action  of  this  medicine,  affirmed  by 
some  and  denied  by  others,  can  hardly  be  considered  as  established.  Stiller  admits 
only  its  occasional,  and  as  it  were  accidental,  occurrence  ( Times  and  Gazette , Jan.  1883, 
p.  14)  ; Leyden  and  Pel  both  deny  it  (Centralbl.  f.  Therap .,  i.  68,  189),  Moutard-Martin 
could  not  discern  it  (Bull,  et  Mem.  Soc.  Ther.,  1882,  p.  148)  ; Beverley  Robinson  did 
not  find  convallaria  a renal  stimulant  ( Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  Apr.  1883,  p.  374); 
and  Dujardin-Beaumetz  declared  that  it  failed  oftener  than  it  succeeded. 

It  is  remarked  by  See  that  convallaria  is  not  liable  to  the  objections  that  exist  against 
digitalis,  of  having  an  acrid  taste,  impairing  the  appetite,  and  occasioning  nausea  or 
vomiting.  Nor  does  it  appear  to  have  caused  any  of  those  alarming,  and  even  fatal, 
results  which  are  chargeable  to  foxglove.  On  the  contrary,  it  seems  to  improve  the 
appetite  and  digestion  and  render  the  stools  soluble.  The  irregularity  of  the  heart,  which 
it  seems  peculiarly  fitted  to  correct,  arises  from  mechanical  impediments  to  the  circu- 
lation, and  especially  from  mitral  lesions,  more  than  from  tissue-degradation.  In  these 
cases  it  calms  the  hurry  of  the  heart  and  renders  its  movements  rhythmical,  and  some- 
times, although  less  uniformly,  reduces  the  pulse-rate,  unless  its  acceleration  has  arisen 
as  compensatory  for  an  insufficient  supply  of  blood.  In  that  case  the  pulse  falls  to,  el- 
even below,  its  normal  standard.  In  aortic  stenosis  or  insufficiency  convallaria,  like 
digitalis,  is  of  less  advantage  than  in  mitral  disease.  The  conclusions  of  Dr.  Pel  of 
Amsterdam  may  here  be  quoted,  viz. : “As  a heart  tonic  (and  diuretic)  the  medicine 
seems  to  be  inoperative  in  failure  of  the  left  ventricle  as  it  occurs  in  chronic  renal  dis- 
ease ; on  the  other  hand,  it  displays  in  special  cases  of  organic  heart  lesion,  as  mitral 
insufficiency  with  imperfect  compensatory  changes,  a power  of  stimulating  the  heart 
and  also  of  causing  diuresis.  Nevertheless,  digitalis  has  a more  distinct  and  durable 
action,  and  convallaria  is  not  able  to  rival  it.”  Germain  See  places  convallaria  and  digi- 
talis on  nearly  the  same  level,  but  assigns  a superiority  to  the  former,  in  that  it  does  not 
suspend  the  action  of  the  heart  like  the  latter  (Bull,  de  Therap .,  cv.  489).  It  may  con- 
veniently be  employed  when  in  the  course  of  treatment  by  digitalis  that  medicine  has 


536 


COPAIBA. 


to  be  suspended.  Gottheil  {Med.  Record , xxiv.  226)  used  this  medicine  with,  to  him, 
inconclusive  results,  but  it  does  not  appear  whether  in  his  cases  valvular  disease  existed 
or  not.  It  is  alleged  that  even  when  palpitation  is  due  to  other  than  organic  causes, 
irregularity  of  the  heart  and  its  consequences  are  removed  by  the  medicine ; and, 
although  the  evidence  upon  this  point  is  incomplete,  the  statement  appears  to  be  sus- 
tained {Med.  Record , xxiii.  133;  also  Bruen,  Ther.  Gaz .,  ix.  20;  Roberts,  Practitioner , 
xxxii.  265).  It  is  also  claimed  that  convallaria  has  been  proved  clinically  to  relieve 
dyspnoea  by  deepening  the  inspiratory  act ; but  in  cases  of  valvular  or  muscular  disease 
of  the  heart  the  action  of  the  medicine  upon  the  heart  alone  is  sufficient  to  explain  the 
relief  felt  in  breathing.  A similar  remark  may  be  made  concerning  its  diuretic  action. 
It  is  altogether  secondary,  and  is  manfested  only  when  the  dropsy,  wherever  situated,  is 
of  cardiac  origin.  But  in  such  cases,  and  especially  when  the  kidneys  and  the  heart- 
muscle  are  sound,  its  influence  in  removing  dropsy  by  diuresis  is  at  least  as  salutary  as 
that  of  digitalis,  and  does  not  involve  the  dangers  incident  to  the  use  of  that  drug.  As 
might  be  expected  from  its  mode  of  action,  the  diuresis  to  which  it  gives  rise  does  not 
cease  abruptly  on  the  suspension  of  the  medicine,  but  is  maintained  for  several  (from 
five  to  nine)  days  longer.  It  causes  no  change  in  the  constitution  of  the  urine ; a slight 
cloudiness  in  it,  produced  by  heat  and  nitric  acid,  is  due  not  to  albumen,  but  to  the 
resin  of  the  plant ; and,  indeed,  it  affects  no  other  function  directly  than  that  of  the  heart. 
A decoction  of  the  fresh  root  of  C.  multiflora  in  milk  has  been  given  internally  for  the 
relief  of  haemorrhoids  with  constipation  (Hamer). 

In  the  cases  which  drew  attention  to  the  special  virtues  of  convallaria  the  Russian 
physicians  employed  an  infusion  of  the  flowers  varying  in  strength  from  10  grains  to  2 
drachms  in  6 ounces  of  water,  which  was  given  in  tablespoonful  doses  twice  a day,  and  also 
an  infusion  of  the  whole  plant,  made  with  Gm.  8 fej-ij)  in  Gm.  128-192  (f§iv-vj)  of 
water,  of  which  “ 3 or  4 spoonfuls  ” a day  were  prescribed.  See  found  an  infusion  of 
the  flowers  inert.  According  to  him,  watery  extracts  are  preferable,  the  least  active 
being  that  of  the  leaves,  then  the  extract  of  the  flowers,  and  finally  the  extract  made 
from  the  flowers,  stems,  and  root.  He  prescribed  for  a daily  portion  from  15  to  20,  or 
even  30,  grains  of  the  watery  extract  of  the  flowers  or  of  the  whole  plant,  or  twice 
these  quantities  of  extract  of  the  leaves.  According  to  Langlebert  and  Tanret,  the 
best  results  are  produced  by  the  watery  extract  of  the  flowers  and  stems,  along  with 
one-third  of  their  weight  of  the  root  and  leaves.  Of  this  preparation  the  average  dose 
is  stated  to  be  Gm.  0.50  (8  grains).  It  is  conveniently  given  in  simple  syrup  flavored 
with  tincture  of  orange-peel  {Bull,  de  Therap.,o,\\\.  74, 179).  A fluid  extract  prepared  in 
this  country  is  said  by  some  to  be  efficient  in  doses  of  from  5 to  12  drops  every  four 
hours  {Med.  Record,  xxii.  281),  or,  as  others  say,  in  doses  of  not  less  than  15  or  20  drops. 
It  has  been  proposed  to  substitute  convallamarin  for  the  preceding  preparations,  in 
the  daily  dose  of  Gm.  0.10  (gr.  1?),  and  gradually  increased. 

Convallaria  poly gonatum  is  represented  to  be  emetic  and  cathartic,  and  mildly  astrin- 
gent and  stimulant  when  applied  topically.  It  was  formerly  used  as  a vulnerary,  and 
more  recently  to  relieve  the  irritation  of  the  skin  produced  by  poison-sumach , etc. 

COPAIBA,  V.  S.,  Br. — Copaiva. 

Balsamum  copaivse , P.  G. — Balsam  copaiva , Balsam  capivi,  E. ; Copahu,  Oleo-resine 
{ Baume ) de  copahu , Fr.  ; Copaivabalsam , G.  ; Bdlsamo  di  copaive,  It.,  Sp. 

The  oleoresin  of  Copaiba  Langsdorffi  ( Desfontaines ),  O.  Kuntze,  and  of  other  species  of 
Copaiba.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 93. 

Nat.  Ord. — Leguminosae,  Caesalpineae. 

Origin. — With  the  exception  of  two  African  species,  the  genus  Copaiba  is  indigenous 
to  the  tropical  part  of  South  America,  and  there  consists  of  ten  species,  the  majority  of 
which  are  medium-sized  or  large  trees,  with  mostly  abruptly  pinnate  coriaceous  leaves 
and  racemose  whitish  apetalous  flowers,  producing  coriaceous  obliquely  elliptical  or  obovate 
one-seeded  legumes.  The  following  may  be  enumerated  as  having  been  mentioned  as 
sources  of  copaiva  : Cop.  officinalis,  Linne  (C.  Jacquini,  Desfontaines'),  indigenous  to 
Venezuela,  New  Granada,  and  some  West  Indian  islands;  Cop.  guianensis,  Desfontaines , 
found  in  Guiana  and  in  Northern  Brazil  near  the  Rio  Negro.  Cop.  Langsdorffii,  Des- 
fontaines, Cop.  coriacea,  Martins , and  others  occur  in  various  parts  of  Brazil.  Cop.  multi- 
juga,  Hayne , is  a doubtful  species;  Cop.  bijuga,  Hayne , is  probably  identical  with  Cop. 
guianensis.  Copaiva  has  been  medicinally  employed  in  Europe  since  the  beginning  of 
the  seventeenth  century. 


COPAIBA. 


537 


Collection. — In  the  interior  of  the  stem  ducts,  sometimes  of  large  dimensions,  are 
formed,  in  which  the  oleoresin  collects  in  such  quantities  that  old  stems  not  unfrequently 
hurst  from  the  internal  pressure  exerted  by  the  liquid.  This  is  gained  from  bore-holes  or 
incisions  made  into  the  trunk  near  its  base,  from  which  the  oleoresin  exudes  at  once  so 
abundantly  that  12  pounds  are  sometimes  obtained  in  the  space  of  3 hours.  If,  however, 
no  copaiva  should  flow,  the  wound  is  closed  with  wax  or  clay  and  reopened  in  a fortnight, 
when  an  abundant  discharge  takes  place.  Old  trees  occasionally  yield  it  two  or  three 
times  a year. 

Copaiva  is  imported  in  barrels  principally  from  Para,  to  which  place  it  is  brought  from 
the  northern  tributaries  of  the  Amazon.  It  is,  perhaps,  in  part  obtained  from  C.  guianensis. 
Notable  quantities  are  brought  from  Maranham,  and  some  from  Rio  de  Janeiro,  the  latter 
supposed  to  be  procured  from  C.  Langsdorffii  and  coriacea.  The  copaiva  exported  from 
Maracaibo  and  Carthagena  appears  to  be  chiefly  procured  from  C.  officinalis. 

Description. — Copaiva  is  a more  or  less  viscid  and  transparent  or  translucent  liquid, 
varying  in  color  from  very  light  yellow,  to  brownish-yellow,  having  a peculiar  aromatic 
odor  and  a bitterish,  persistently  acrid,  and  nauseous  taste.  Its  specific  gravity  ranges 
between  0.94  and  0.99  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  ; Fliickiger  gives  the  limits  between  .935  and 
.998  ; by  keeping  it  becomes  thicker  and  denser.  Unlike  gurjun  balsam,  it  is  not  gelat- 
inized on  being  heated  to  130°  C.  It  is  insoluble  in  water,  dissolves  in  three  or  four 
times  its  weight  of  strong  alcohol,  and  freely  in  absolute  alcohol,  carbon  disulphide, 
ether,  volatile  and  fixed  oils,  acetone,  and  petroleum  benzin  ; the  latter  solution  becomes 
opalescent  on  the  addition  of  more  (3  to  5 volumes)  petroleum  benzin,  and  deposits  on 
standing  a little  resinous  matter,  at  the  same  time  becoming  transparent  again.  With 
one-third  its  volume  of  ammonia-water  it  yields  a transparent  mixture.  Benzene  yields 
with  some  varieties  a turbid  solution.  The  optical  behavior  of  copaiva  varies,  as  has 
been  shown  by  Buignet  (1861)  and  Fliickiger  (1867). 

The  different  kinds  are  commercially  distinguished  by  their  ports  of  exportation,  but 
even  as  obtained  from  the  same  places  are  not  always  identical  in  every  particular.  Para 
copaiva  is  the  most  limpid  and  the  lightest  kind,  and  frequently  contains  from  65  to  85 
per  cent,  of  volatile  oil.  Maranham  copaiva  is  a little  denser,  has  about  the  consistence 
of  olive  oil,  differs  somewhat  in  odor  from  the  preceding,  and  contains  from  40  to  50  per 
cent,  of  volatile  oil.  Rio  Janeiro  copaiva  resembles  the  last.  These  Brazilian  copaivas 
yield,  with  one-third  to  one-half  their  weight  of  ammonia,  compounds  which  form  per- 
fectly clear  solutions  in  the  volatile  oils  contained  in  them  ; a larger  quantity  of  ammonia 
renders  the  solution  quite  milky,  but  in  the  presence  of  a fixed  oil  clear  solutions  are  not 
obtained.  Maracaibo  copaiva  is  the  thickest  variety,  usually  of  a dark-yellow  color  and 
not  quite  transparent.  It  contains  less  volatile  oil,  and  does  not  always  yield  a clear 
mixture  with  a little  ammonia-water  ; but  it  solidifies  readily  with  magnesia,  and  is  well 
adapted  for  making  the  officinal  Massa  copaibae.  According  to  the  German  Pharmaco- 
poeia, thick  copaivas  are  to  be  preferred. 

Adulterations. — The  variable  conditions  of  commercial  copaiva,  depending  on  its 
origin  from  different  species,  renders  a detection  of  adulterations  by  no  means  an  easy 
task.  A copaiva  which  dissolves  clear  in  strong  alcohol,  yields  with  one-third  ammonia  a 
transparent  mixture,  is  on  heating  free  from  turpentine  odor,  and  on  evaporation  of  the 
volatile  oil  from  a flat  dish,  and  subsequent  cooling,  leaves  a transparent,  hard,  and  brittle 
resin,  may  be  considered  pure.  Fixed  oils  are  left  behind  with  the  resin,  and  render  it  soft 
and  sticky  ; if  other  than  castor  oil  is  present,  neither  the  copaiva  nor  the  residuary  resin 
will  yield  a clear  solution  with  alcohol.  Castor  oil,  being  nearly  insoluble  in  petroleum  ben- 
zin, may  be  detected  by  shaking  the  suspected  copaiva  with  4 to  5,  or  even  10,  volumes  of 
that  solvent,  when  the  adulterant  will  separate,  but  the  volatile  oil  present  exerts  a marked 
solvent  power  on  the  castor  oil.  Fliickiger  and  Hanbury  recommend  heating  the  sample 
of  copaiva  with  4 parts  of  85  per  cent,  alcohol  and  allowing  the  mixture  to  cool ; the  upper 
layer  is  then  evaporated  to  expel  the  alcohol  and  volatile  oil  and  the  remaining  castor 
oil,  recognized  by  heating  it  with  caustic  soda  and  lime,  when  oenanthol  will  be  formed, 
recognizable  by  its  peculiar  smell ; even  1 per  cent,  of  castor  oil  is  stated  to  be  thus 
detected. 

When  a drop  of  pure  copaiva  is  evaporated  from  a piece  of  filtering-paper,  it  will  leave 
a sharply-defined  transparent  spot  of  resin  behind,  which,  if  a fixed  oil  is  present,  will 
be  surrounded  by  a greasy  areola.  Tomlinson  (1864)  has  recommended  the  examination 
of  the  cohesion-figures  produced  by  a drop  upon  water,  which  are  said  to  be  quite  charac- 
teristic for  pure  copaiva. 

The  presence  of  other  volatile  oils  and  turpentines  usually  becomes  quite  evident  by  a 


538 


COPAIBA. 


different  odor  on  slowly  heating  a little  of  the  copaiva.  Turpentine,  oil  of  turpentine, 
resin,  rosin  oil,  etc.  are  said  to  be  detected  by  a test  admitted  into  the  P.  G. : 1 part  of 
copaiva,  on  being  strongly  shaken  with  5 parts  of  water  of  50°  C.  (122°  F.),  should  yield 
a turbid  mixture,  and  this,  on  being  warmed  in  a water-bath,  should  separate  again  into 
two  clear  layers.  Copaiva  mixed  with  10  per  cent,  of  gurjun  balsam  yields  by  this 
treatment  a permanent  emulsion  (Fliickiger).  The  U.  S.  P.  gives  the  boiling-point 
of  the  volatile  oil  (200°  C.  ==  392°  F.)  as  a test.  The  German  Pharmacopoeia  adds  the 
following  determination:  To  1 Gm.  of  copaiva,  dissolved  in  10  Cc.  of  absolute  alcohol, 
10  drops  of  phenolphthalein  solution  are  added,  then  sufficient  normal  potassium  hydrox- 
ide solution,  diluted  with  three  volumes  absolute  alcohol,  until  the  red  color  just  makes  its 
appearance.  After  noting  the  number  of  Cc.  used,  20  Cc.  more  of  the  latter  are  added,  and 
the  mixture  heated  on  a warm  bath  for  fifteen  minutes,  when  the  amount  of  free  alkali 
is  titrated  with  normal  hydrochloric  acid.  The  amount  of  acid  necessary  to  effect  neu- 
tralization should  not  be  very  much  less  than  would  be  required  by  the  20  Cc.  of  potas- 
sium hydroxide  solution  last  added. 

The  presence  of  gurjun  balsam  in  copaiva  is  stated  to  be  detected  by  shaking  together 
in  a test-tube  19  drops  of  carbon  disulphide  and  1 drop  of  the  oleoresin,  and  adding, 
with  some  agitation,  1 drop  of  a cold  mixture  of  equal  parts  of  concentrated  sulphuric 
and  nitric  acids  ; copaiva  assumes  a faint  reddish-brown  color  and  deposits  resin  on  the 
side  of  the  tube  ; in  the  presence  of  gurjun  balsam  an  intense  purplish-red  color  is 
produced,  changing  to  violet,  the  reaction  being  due  to  the  volatile  oil  of  the  adulterant. 
The  oleoresin  of  Hardwickia  pinnata,  Roxburgh , will  under  the  same  circumstances  pro- 
duce a pale  greenish-yellow  color  ( Pharmacographia ). 

Constituents. — Copaiva  owes  its  limpidity  to  the  presence  of  volatile  oil  (see  Oleum 
Copaibye),  but  the  acrid  and  bitter  taste  is  partly  due  to  the  brittle  resin,  partly  also  to  a 
bitter  principle,  as  shown  by  Fliickiger  ( Ph armakognosie) . On  boiling  copaiva  with  water, 
concentrating  the  aqueous  liquid,  and  filtering  from  the  floccules  which  are  separated,  a 
transparent  very  bitter  solution  is  obtained,  which  reddens  litmus  and  yields  a copious 
precipitate  with  tannin  solution.  The  resin  possesses  acid  properties,  and  is  occasionally 
deposited  from  copaiva  in  a crystalline  form,  also  from  a clear  mixture  of  copaiva  and 
ammonia-water  when  exposed  to  a low  temperature.  The  crystals  are  freed  from  adher- 
ing oleoresin  by  washing  with  ether,  and  afterward  recrystallized  from  absolute  alcohol, 
when,  according  to  Schweitzer  (1830),  copaivic  acid  is  obtained  free  from  ammonia. 
Rush  (1879)  agitated  1 part  of  copaiva  with  3 parts  of  solution  of  soda  sp.  gr.  1.30; 
the  mixture  separates  into  three  layers,  consisting  of  volatile  oil,  an  aqueous  alkaline 
liquid,  and  the  compound  of  resin  ; the  two  upper  layers  are  decanted,  the  resin  com- 
pound well  washed,  dissolved  in  petroleum  benzin,  agitated  with  dilute  hydrochloric  acid, 
washed  with  water,  and  the  benzin  solution  evaporated.  Copaivic  acid  has  the  composition 
C20H32O2,  and  crystallizes  in  small  soft  prisms,  which  are  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  carbon 
bisulphide,  and  in  fixed  and  volatile  oils ; its  salts  are  uncrystallizable.  A deposit  from 
Para  copaiva  was  recognized  by  Fehling  (1841)  as  distinct  from  the  above  ; it  is  oxyco- 
paivic  acid , C20H28O3.  Strauss’s  (1865)  metacopaivic  acid , C22H3404,  is  contained  in  Mara- 
caibo copaiva,  from  which  it  is  obtained  by  agitation  with  ammonium  carbonate  and  by 
precipitating  the  aqueous  liquid  with  hydrochloric  acid.  When  copaiva  is  kept  on  hand 
it  gradually  becomes  thicker,  through  the  alteration  of  the  volatile  ail  and  its  conversion 
into  a soft  resinous  body. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses  and  Preparations. — Copaiva  is  readily  emulsified  by 
the  aid  of  yelk  of  egg  or  gum-arabic.  It  is  sometimes  given  in  the  form  of  electuary, 
and  requires  then  some  absorbent  for  the  volatile  oil,  for  which  purpose  powdered  marsh- 
mallow, liquorice-root,  or  gum-arabic  is  adapted ; or  the  copaiva  may  be  preferably  fused 
together  with  some  wax,  spermaceti,  or  cacao-butter,  the  quantity  of  which  will  vary 
with  the  amount  of  volatile  oil,  between  £ and  1 part.  (See  also  Oleum  Copaibye  and 
Massa  Copaiba.) 

Allied  Products. — Hardwickia  pinnata,  Roxburgh  (nat.  ord.  Leguminosae,  Caesalpineae),  is 
a large  East  Indian  tree,  yielding  from  incisions  a thick,  dark-brown  oleoresin,  which  in  thin 
layers  is  greenish  or  wine-red,  transparent,  but  not  fluorescent,  and  resembles  copaiva  in  both 
odor  and  taste.  Broughton  (1872)  obtained  from  it  between  25  and  40  per  cent,  of  volatile  oil 
having  the  composition  C10H16,  the  remainder  consisting  of  several  resins,  but  copaivic  acid  was 
not  obtained. 

Dipterocarpus  alatus,  Roxburgh , D.  turbinatus,  Gaertner  (s.  D.  lsevis,  Hamilton ),  D.  incanus, 
Roxburgh  (s.  D.  costatus,  Gaertner ),  and  several  other  species  of  the  same  genus  (nat.  ord.  Dip- 
terocarpaceae)  which  are  indigenous  to  various  parts  of  India,  the  East  Indian  and  the  Philip- 
pine islands,  yield  gurjun  balsam  or  wood-oil,  obtained  by  cutting  large  holes  into  the  lower  part 


COPAIBA. 


539 


of  the  stem  and  charring  the  wood,  after  which  the  oleoresin  flows  abundantly.  It  is  a viscid 
liquid,  varying  in  color  from  greenish-gray  to  brownish,  opaque  in  reflected  light,  but  transparent 
and  of  a dark  brownish  or  reddish  tint  when  viewed  in  transmitted  light : its  odor  is  similar  to 
but  weaker  than  that  of  copaiva,  and  its  taste  is  more  bitter  and  somewhat  aromatic,  but  not 
acrid.  It  is  freely  soluble  in  chloroform,  carbon  bisulphide,  and  volatile  oils,  but  only  partly 
soluble  in  alcohol,  fusel  oil,  ether,  and  petroleum  benzin.  When  strongly  agitated  with  water, 
gradually  added  until  5 parts  have  been  used,  gurjun  balsam  furnishes  a very  thick  emulsion, 
which  does  not  become  clear  on  warming,  but  on  the  addition  of  the  same  bulk  of  water  the 
balsam  separates,  and  the  clear  watery  liquid  has  a bitter  taste  and  an  acid  reaction  (Fliickiger). 
When  heated  in  a stoppered  vial  to  near  130°  C.  (266°  F.)  it  has  the  curious  property  of  becoming 
gelatinous,  the  fluidity  not  being  restored  on  cooling.  The  amount  of  volatile  oil  present  in 
gurjun  balsam  varies  considerably:  Werner  (1862)  obtained  15  per  cent.,  Fliickiger  45.5  per 
cent.,  and  from  one  specimen  even  72  per  cent.  : it  is  strongly  laevogyre,  and  has  the  composi- 
tion C15H24,  the  density  0.9044  to  0.91 8 at  15°  C..  and  the  boiling-point  255°  C.  (491°  F.).  The  resin 
left  after  distillation  of  the  volatile  oil  yields  to  caustic  potassa  gurjunic  acid , c22h,A, 
which  may  be  obtained  pure  by  adding  to  the  potassa  solution  an  excess  of  ammonium  chloride, 
filtering,  and  decomposing  with  hydrochloric  acid.  Gurjunic  acid  dissolves  readily  in  ether  and 
strong  alcohol,  slowly  in  benzene,  and  with  difficulty  in  carbon  disulphide : it  melts  at  220°  C. 
(418°  F.).  and  congeals  again  at  180°  C.  (356°  F.).  A crystalline  neutral  resin  of  gurjun  balsam, 
which  had  been  sold  as  copaivic  acid,  was  found  by  Fliickiger  (1878)  to  have  the  composition 
C'jsH4602,  to  melt  at  126°  C.  (258.8°  F.),  and  to  dissolve  in  sulphuric  acid  with  an  orange  color. 

Lagam  balsam,* mix .jak-lagam,  comes  from  an  unknown  tree  in  Sumatra,  and  closely  resem- 
bles gurjun  balsam.  Examined  by  Haussner  (1883),  it  was  dingy-green  in  reflected  and  yellow- 
ish transparent  in  transmitted  light,  had  a bitterish  and  lastingly  acrid  taste,  and  was  complete- 
ly soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  benzene,  chloroform,  and  carbon  disulphide  ; it  yields  about  33  per 
cent,  of  laevogyre  volatile  oil  of  the  composition  C20H32,  and  boiling  at  about  250°  C.  (482°  F.). 
The  acid  resin  is  uncrystallizable,  and  has  the  composition  C7Hu03  ; the  neutral  resin,  fused 
with  potassa,  yields  phenols  and  formic,  acetic,  butyric,  and  aromatic  acids. 

Action  and  Uses. — In  continued  or  excessive  doses  copaiva  deranges  the  digestion, 
impairs  the  appetite,  and  causes  eructations,  nausea,  and  diarrhoea.  It  appears  to 
augment  the  watery  element  of  the  urine,  rendering  this  secretion  dark,  bitter,  and  some- 
what fragrant,  as  well  as  more  or  less  turbid  from  the  resin  of  copaiva  which  also  forms 
an  iridescent  pellicle  upon  its  surface.  The  addition  of  nitric  acid  to  the  urine  gives  a 
turbid  precipitate  which,  unlike  albumen,  is  soluble  in  alcohol.  Large  doses  or  the  long- 
continued  use  of  copaiva  irritate  the  bladder,  causing  micturition  and  sometimes  hae- 
maturia  with  feverishness.  It  appears  also  to  be  excreted  by  the  pulmonary  and  the 
cutaneous  surfaces ; the  former  is  shown  by  the  odor  it  gives  to  the  breath,  and  the 
latter  by  the  eruptions  of  roseola,  urticaria,  etc.  which  it  occasionally  excites.  A very 
peculiar  eruption  has  been  attributed  to  copaiva  and  cubeb  taken  together  ( Amer . Jour, 
of  Med.  Sci .,  Jan.  1881,  p.  289).  Copaiva  impregnates  the  milk  of  nursing  women,  so 
that  their  infants  refuse  the  breast.  Its  diuretic  action  fails  in  cases  of  renal  dropsy 
depending  upon  tubular  nephritis,  acute  or  chronic — a fact  which  renders  it  almost 
certain  that  the  diuresis  produced  by  copaiva  is  due  to  its  action  upon  the  secreting 
elements  of  the  kidneys. 

The  most  important  uses  of  copaiva  are  in  the  treatment  of  mucous  profluvia,  especially 
of  the  urinary  and  the  air-passages.  There  can  be  no  doubt  that  it  acts  by  modifying  the 
urine  in  the  first,  and  the  bronchial  mucous  membrane  itself  in  the  second,  of  these  cases, 
and  that  in  both  it  cures  by  a substitutive  operation.  It  is  well  known  that  copaiva  given 
internally  does  not  often  cure  vaginal  gonorrhoea , while  it  arrests  the  urethral  form  of 
the  disease  in  the  female  as  readily  as  in  the  male.  It  is  also  known  that  in  hypospadic 
males  affected  with  gonorrhoea  the  internal  administration  of  copaiva  will  arrest  the 
discharge  from  behind  the  urethral  aperture,  but  not  from  that  part  over  which  the  urine 
does  not  flow.  Hence  an  explanation  of  the  clinical  rule,  to  administer  as  much  copaiva 
as  can  be  taken  without  disordering  the  stomach  or  irritating  the  urinary  organs.  In 
this  manner  it  exerts  a stimulant  and  moderately  substitutive  action  upon  the  inflamed 
membrane  and  causes  a diminution  of  the  discharge.  According  to  some,  the  agent 
in  this  operation  is  exclusively  copaivic  acid,  but,  since  the  resin  abundantly  appears 
in  the  urine,  this  constituent  cannot  be  denied  its  share  in  the  cure.  It  is  probable 
that  the  essential  oil  is  the  most  active  agent  when  copaiva  cures  bronchitis , since  it  is 
largely  eliminated  through  the  bronchia.  During  the  acute  stage  of  gonorrhoea,  and 
also  of  bronchitis,  copaiva  is  contraindicated,  for  in  the  former  disease  it  tends  to 
cause  strangury,  swelling  of  the  testicle,  and  other  local  disturbances,  while  in  bronchitis 
it  is  apt  to  arrest  the  bronchial  secretion  and  thereby  occasion  fever  and  dyspnoea. 
Besides  administering  copaiva  by  the  mouth  for  the  cure  of  gonorrhoea  and  gleet,  it 
has  sometimes  been  thrown  into  the  rectum — a clumsy,  uncertain,  and  injurious  method. 


540 


COPAIBA . 


It  has  also  been  injected  as  an  emulsion  into  the  urethra,  but  seldom  with  advantage, 
since  the  urine  remaining  unmodified  continued  to  irritate  the  inflamed  mucous  mem- 
brane. The  urine  passed  by  the  patient  taking  copaiva  has  been  used  as  a urethral 
injection  for  the  cure  of  gonorrhoea — an  unnecessary  and  barbarous  expedient  when  so 
many  more  appropriate  injections  are  available.  Vesical  catarrh  is  often  greatly  bene- 
fited, and  may  sometimes  be  cured  by  means  of  this  medicine  perseveringly  administered 
in  moderate  doses.  Sometimes  an  emulsion  of  it  injected  into  the  bladder  has  been 
serviceable.  It  is  an  efficient  remedy  in  many  cases  of  irritability  of  the  bladder 
depending  upon  previous  gonorrhoea  or  excessive  sexual  indulgence.  In  some  cases 
of  leucorrhoea  it  is  reputed  to  have  been  curative,  but  there  is  more  evidence  of  its 
favorable  action  in  the  treatment  of  inflamed  and  ulcerated  haemorrhoids  and  chronic 
dysentery.  In  1863  it  was  announced  as  a specific  for  membranous  croup , and  even 
in  1875  the  same  deceptive  statement  was  repeated.  In  various  inflammations  of  the 
eye  it  is  reputed  to  have  an  almost  “ specific  ” influence,  especially  in  iritis , sclerotitis , 
and  purulent  ophthalmia.  In  the  two  first-named  diseases  it  was  given  internally 
in  drachm  doses,  but  in  the  last  applied  upon  the  skin  around  the  orbit  and  instilled 
between  the  lids  {Med.  Record , xxx.  401).  There  is  more  clinical  proof  of  its 
curative  power  in  cutaneous  scaly  diseases , and  its  efficacy  is  rendered  more 
probable  by  the  well-known  action  of  the  medicine  upon  the  skin.  It  has  even 
been  alleged  to  be  an  efficient  remedy  in  leprosy  (Simmons).  Although  the  ordinary 
use  of  copaiva  does  not  denote  its  action  upon  the  nervous  system,  yet  the  occasional 
effects  attributed  to  it  seem  to  point  in  that  direction.  In  corroboration  of  this  view 
it  may  be  mentioned  that,  like  other  terebinthinates,  it  has  produced  cures  of  sciatica , 
even  after  the  failure  of  numerous  other  medicines  (March,  Times  and  Gaz.,  Feb., 
1881,  p.  237).  The  diuretic  operation  of  copaiva  appears  to  be  very  decided  in 
certain  cases  of  dropsy.  This  operation  has  been  described  in  a previous  paragraph. 
A careful  examination  of  the  clinical  records  touching  the  matter  shows  that  the 
medicine  is  of  little  use  in  any  form  of  dropsy  depending  upon  renal  disease,  and  least 
of  all  in  the  cases  which  most  require  it — viz.  those  of  a scanty  secretion  of  urine 
due  to  tubular  nephritis.  In  cardiac  dropsy  the  influence  of  the  medicine  is  more 
favorable,  but  only  in  proportion  as  the  effusion  is  due  to  general  causes  rather  than 
to  mechanical  obstruction  in  the  heart.  The  cases  in  which  copaiva  and  its  resin  have 
produced  the  most  remarkable  results  are  those  of  hepatic  dropsy.  In  the  most 
successful  of  them  the  nature  of  the  hepatic  obstruction  was  only  conjectural,  but  was 
probably  a condition  analogous  to  that  of  commencing  cirrhosis.  Certain  it  is  that  in 
many  cases  of  ascites  which  improved  but  slightly,  or  did  not  improve  at  all,  under  the 
use  of  the  medicine,  and  which  ultimately  proved  fatal,  advanced  cirrhosis  of  the  liver 
was  found  after  death.  The  dose  of  copaiva  used  in  hepatic  dropsy  is  about  20  grains 
three  times  a day. 

Externally,  copaiva,  like  other  terebinthinates,  serves  to  stimulate,  and  at  the  same  time 
protect,  parts  to  which  it  is  applied.  It  forms  an  excellent  dressing  for  chilblains , sore 
nipples , anal  and  other  fissures , etc. 

Copaiva  is  most  commonly  administered  in  gelatin  capsules,  each  containing  about 
6m.  0.60  (gtt.  x),  which  is  the  minimum  dose.  The  maximum  dose  ordinarily  given  is 
about  Gm.  4 (fgj).  Much  larger  quantities,  even  as  much  as  an  ounce,  have  been 
prescribed,  but  without  necessity  or  advantage.  The  medicine  is  sometimes  mixed  with 
magnesia,  with  which  it  forms  a solid  and  very  insoluble  mass.  Equal  quantities  of 
copaiva  and  liquor  potassae  make  a perfect  solution,  which  can  be  diluted  and  flavored. 
Next  to  the  capsules,  emulsions  of  copaiva  are  to  be  preferred.  They  are  made  with 
the  yelk  of  egg  or  mucilage  and  some  aromatic  water,  to  which  a small  proportion  of 
laudanum  is  usually  added.  Each  tablespoonful  should  contain  from  Gm.  0.60-3.0  (gtt. 
x-xl)  of  copaiva. 

Copal  varnish  has  been  recommended  to  arrest  the  development  of  felons  by  applying 
it  previous  to  the  suppurative  stage  (Isham,  Med.  News,  x\.  97).  No  doubt  it  acts  as 
other  terebinthinates  (copaiva,  benzoin,  oil  of  turpentine)  do  in  the  treatment  of  frost-bite 
and  various  local  inflammations,  by  protecting,  and  the  same  time  stimulating,  the  affected 
part. 

Gurjun  oil  of  balsam,  which  resembles  copaiva  closely  in  its  constitution,  has,  like 
it,  been  used  for  the  cure  of  gonorrhoea.  In  1873  it  was  applied  in  one  of  the  British 
Oriental  possessions,  the  Andaman  Islands,  to  the  treatment  of  leprosy.  Twenty-four 
cases  were  submitted  to  this  method,  with  the  effect  of  healing  the  ulcers,  while  the  anaes- 
thesia greatly  improved  and  the  tubercles  softened  and  disappeared.  It  was  most  efficient 


COPTIS. — COR  ALL  0RRH1ZA . 


541 


when  employed  externally  in  the  form  of  an  emulsion  made  with  3 parts  of  lime-water 
to  1 of  the  oil,  with  which  the  affected  parts  were  diligently  rubbed  twice  a day,  and 
each  time  for  the  space  of  two  hours.  At  the  same  time  the  oil  was  administered  inter- 
nally in  doses  varying  from  Gm.  0.40-4.0  (gtt.  vj— lx),  and  finally  in  tablespoonful  doses 
of  an  emulsion  made  of  equal  parts  of  the  oil  and  lime-water. 

Reports  of  a later  date  confirm  the  statements  just  made.  One  comes  from  India,  and 
summarizes  the  results  of  using  gurjun  oil  in  leprosy  thus : “ It  rapidly  heals  chronic, 
leprous  ulcers,  softens  the  skin,  prevents  the  collection  of  flies,  and  is  cheap  ” (Peters, 
Practitioner , xxiv.  122).  The  other  is  by  Dr.  Milroy,  who  treated  the  disease  in  British 
Guiana.  “Gurjun  oil,”  he  says,  “ is  laxative,  diuretic,  and  alterative,  and  produces  per- 
spiration in  the  anaesthetic  parts,  followed  by  a return  of  sensation.  It  softens  the  tuber- 
cles. Internally,  it  purges  and  acts  on  the  kidneys  and  urine  like  copaiva.  Of  32 
patients  under  its  use,  great  improvement  occurred  in  16,  and  9 more  were  benefited  ” 
( Times  and  Gazette , June,  1879,  p.  643).  Like  copaiva,  it  is  useful  ia  chronic  bronchitis. 

COPTIS. — Gold  Thread. 

Cop  tide,  Fr. ; Gelbe  ( Kleinste ) Niesswurz , G. 

Coptis  trifolia,  Salisbury , s.  Helleborus  trifolius,  Linne.  Bigelow,  Med.  Bot.  i.  t.  5 ; 
Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 3. 

Nat.  Ord. — Ranunculaceae,  Helleboreae. 

Origin. — The  plant  is  indigenous  to  the  northern  half  of  this  continent,  from  Penn- 
sylvania northward  to  Greenland  and  Labrador,  and  also  from  the  northern  portion  of 
Europe  and  Siberia  to  Kamtchatka. 

Description. — Gold-thread  has  a filiform  creeping  rhizome  of  a golden-yellow  color, 
with  very  thin  fibrous  rootlets.  The  radical  leaves  originate  from  a scaly  base,  are  peti- 
olate  and  trifoliate ; the  leaflets  are  about  12  Mm.  (£  inch)  long,  ovate  with  a wedge- 
shaped  base  obtusely  three-lobed,  and  mucronately  crenate ; the  scape  is  50-75  Mm.  (2 
or  3 inches)  long,  exceeding  the  petioles,  and  bears  a single  yellowish-white  flower  pro- 
ducing about  seven  oblong  follicles,  which  are  acuminate  with  the  persistent  style  and 
contain  a few  oblong  black,  and  glossy  seeds.  The  whole  plant  is  glabrous,  without 
odor,  and  has  a strongly  bitter  taste. 

Constituents. — Mayer  (1862)  found  in  gold-thread  berberine  and  a white  alkaloid. 
Analyzed  by  E.  Z.  Gross  (1873),  the  absence  of  tannin  and  gallic  acid  was  established  ; 
besides  some  sugar,  albumen,  fat,  and  resin,  two  alkaloids  were  isolated,  berberine  and 
coptine  ; the  latter  is  colorless,  insoluble  in  alkalies,  neutralizes  acids,  dissolves  in  strong 
nitric  and  hydrochloric  acids  without  change,  and  produces  with  warm  concentrated  sul- 
phuric acid  a purplish  color,  similar  to  that  of  hydrastine.  The  acids  naturally  com- 
bined with  the  alkaloids  have  not  been  ascertained.  The  herb  yielded  between  4 and  5 
per  cent,  of  ash,  about  one-tenth  of  which  was  silica. 

Allied  Drugs. — Coptis  Teeta,  Wallich.  The  rhizome  has  the  thickness  of  a quill,  contains 
8£  per  cent,  of  berberine,  and  is  used  in  India  as  a pure  bitter  tonic. 

C.  anemon^efolia,  Siebold.  The  rhizome  of  this  Japanese  plant  is  about  3 Mm.  (4  inch) 
thick,  bristly,  with  short  wiry  rootlets,  externally  brown,  and  internally  bright-yellow,  and  has 
a bitter  taste ; it  probably  contains  berberine. 

Action  and  Uses. — Coptis  has  no  ascertained  virtues  beyond  those  of  other  simple 
bitters,  for  which,  if  necessary,  it  may  be  substituted.  An  infusion  of  it  may  be  made 
with  an  ounce  of  the  root  to  a pint  of  water,  Gm.  32  to  Gm.  500,  and  given  in  the  dose 
of  1 or  2 ounces.  It  is  used  as  a wash  for  aphthous  sore  mouth.  A tincture  is  made  with 
alcohol,  a pint  to  an  ounce  of  the  bruised  root.  Dose,  Gm.  4 (f^j).  Bufalini  found  that 
Coptis  teeta  reduced  the  rate  of  the  frog’s  heart,  and  finally  arrested  it  in  systole.  He 
classed  it  with  digitalis  and  squill  ; but  Paschkis  regarded  it  as  more  analogous  with 
berberin  ( Centralb . f.  Therap.,  v.  154). 

CORALLORRHIZA. — Coral-root. 

The  rhizome  of  Corallorrhiza  odontorrhiza,  Nuttall. 

Nat.  Ord. — Orchideae. 

Origin. — The  plant  is  a parasite,  of  a purplish-brown  color,  has  a slender  stem  about 
25  Cm.  (10  inches)  high,  and  bears  from  eight  to  twenty  flowers,  with  their  lips  nearly 
entire.  It  is  indigenous  to  North  America  east  of  the  Mississippi.  It  is  not  unlikely 
that  the  more  common  Corallorrhiza  multiflora,  Nuttall,  may  furnish  some  of  the  com- 


542 


COR  DIALE  RUBI  FR  UCTUS. — CORTA  NDR  CJM. 


mercial  coral-root ; it  is  stouter,  and  has  from  fifteen  to  thirty  flowers,  which  are  spurred 
at  the  base  and  have  the  lip  deeply  three-lobed.  It  is  found  westward  to  the  Rocky 
Mountains. 

Description. — Coral-root  consists  of  numerous  small  fleshy  tubers,  which  are  united 
by  their  broader  sides  and  form  many  branches  of  different  length,  but  of  the  same 
articulated  appearance,  resembling  coral  in  arrangement.  It  is  of  a brown  color  exter- 
nally, whitish  within,  and  has  particularly  in  the  fresh  state,  a peculiar  odor  and  a bit- 
terish and  astringent  taste.  Its  proximate  constituents  have  not  been  ascertained. 

Action  and  Uses. — There  appears  to  be  nothing  to  be  added  to  the  stereotyped 
account  of  this  plant,  to  the  effect  that  it  is  an  active  diaphoretic  and  useful  in  fevers 
and  inflammations.  It  is  administered  in  powder  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  2 (30  grains)  every 
two  hours. 

CORDIALE  RUBI  FRUCTUS,  JV.  F. — Blackberry  Cordial. 

Preparation. — Blackberry  Juice,  3 pints;  Cinnamon,  in  coarse  powder,  2 troy 
ounces ; Cloves,  in  coarse  powder,  4 troy  ounce ; Nutmeg,  in  coarse  powder,  4 troy 
ounce ; Diluted  Alcohol,  2 pints  ; Syrup,  3 pints.  Digest  the  spices  with  the  diluted  al- 
cohol for  eight  days,  then  mix  with  the  blackberry  juice,  and  strain  ; lastly,  add  the  syrup. 

Our  experience  with  this  popular  remedy  (extending  over  several  years  and  the  manu- 
facture of  many  gallons  of  the  cordial)  justifies  the  statement  that  the  preparation  will 
be  much  improved  and  time  saved  by  percolating  the  spices,  in  moderately  fine  powder, 
with  diluted  alcohol  to  obtain  2 pints  of  tincture;  to  this  add  the  blackberry  juice  and 
about  4 oz.  of  precipitated  calcium  phosphate : set  the  mixture  aside  for  forty-eight 
hours,  with  occasional  agitation,  and  filter;  to  the  clear  filtrate  add  the  syrup.  Black- 
berry cordial  is  apt  to  become  slightly  turbid  after  standing  for  some  time,  and  should 
then  be  again  filtered  before  dispensing. 

CORIANDRUM,  U.  Coriander. 

Coviandri  fructus , Br. — Con  cinder -fruit , E.  ; Coriandre,  Fr. ; Koriander , G. ; Cilantro , 
Culantro , Sp. 

The  fruit  of  Coriandrum  sativum,  Linne. 

Nat . Ord. — Umbelliferse,  Coelospermae. 

Origin. — The  plant  is  probably  indigenous  to  China  and  to  the  eastern  portion  of  the 
northern  shore  of  the  Mediterranean,  but  is  now  extensively  naturalized  in  the  fields  of 
temperate  Asia  and  Europe,  where  it  is  also  cultivated.  It  is 
occasionally  cultivated  in  the  United  States  and  in  some  parts, 
of  South  America.  It  is  a smooth  annual  about  60  Cm.  (2 
feet)  high,  and  of  a very  offensive  odor,  somewhat  like  that  of 
bedbugs.  The  leaves  are  decompound,  the  segments  of  the 
lower  ones  broadly  cuneate,  and  of  the  upper  ones  narrow  and 
linear;  the  umbels  are  three-  to  five-rayed,  without  involucre; 
the  umbellets  six-  to  fifteen-rayed,  with  an  involucel  of  three 
linear  bracts.  The  flowers  are  white  or  rose-colored.  49,133 
pounds  of  coriander  were  imported  in  1866-67  ; in  the  recent 
returns  coriander  is  included  with  caraway. 

CTud hi^sectfon ^magn i H ed ^ Description. — Coriander-fruit  is  a cremocarp  nearly  glob- 

diameters;  transverse  sec-  ular,  about  4 Mm.  Q-  inch)  in  diameter,  smooth,  crowned  with 

tion  : magnified  8 diameters.  the  unequai  calyX-teeth  and  stylopodium,  and  of  a buff  or  pale 

brownish-yellow  color.  Each  of  the  two  mericarps  forms  a thin  hemispherical  shell,  the 
two  being  united  at  the  edge  by  the  thin  pericarp,  thus  enclosing  a flattish  lenticular 
cavity  and  separating  only  by  slight  pressure.  The  five  primary  ribs  of  each  half-fruit 
are  obsolete,  forming  merely  raised  wavy  lines ; the  four  secondary  ribs  are  more  prom- 
inent as  straight  ridges,  and  similar  ridges  are  formed  at  the  junction  of  the  mericarps. 
The  longitudinal  and  transverse  sections  of  each  mericarp  show  the  albumen  to  be  of  a 
semilunar  shape  ; upon  the  latter  two  oil-tubes  are  seen  on  the  face  and  none  on  the  back. 
On  ripening  the  fruit  becomes  gratefully  aromatic. 

Constituents. — Trommsdorff  obtained  from  coriander  nearly  4 of  1 per  cent,  of 
volatile  oil  (see  Oleum  Coriandri)  and  13  per  cent,  of  fatty  matter,  besides  a small 
amount  of  mucilage,  malic  acid,  and  traces  of  tannin. 

Action  and  Uses. — Coriander  is  aromatic  and  stimulant,  and  is  chiefly  employed 
to  promote  the  digestion  of  certain  kinds  of  pastry,  and  in  medicine  to  correct  or  assist 
the  action  of  purgatives,  such  as  rhubarb,  senna,  and  jalap. 


Fig.  82. 


CORIA  RIA.— CORNUS. 


543 


CORIARIA. — Currier’s  Sumach. 

Redoul , Sumac  des  corroyeurs , Fr. ; Gerber strauch,  G. 

Coriaria  myrtifolia,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Coriariacea). 

Origin. — It  is  a shrub -about  1.8  M.  (6  feet)  high,  growing  in  Southern  Europe  and 
Northern  Africa. 

Description. — The  branches  are  quadrangular  ; the  leaves  opposite,  25  to  38  Mm. 
(1  to  If  inches)  long,  on  short  petioles,  ovate-lanceolate,  acute,  entire,  even  at  the  base  ; 
smooth,  bluish-green,  and  shining  above,  pale-green  beneath,  with  a strong  mid-  ^ 
rib  and  two  lateral  nerves  running  to  near  the  apex.  The  flowers  are  in  small  T'  ‘ ’ 
terminal  racemes,  have  a bell-shaped  calyx,  five  fleshy,  scale-like  petals,  five 
long  linear  stigmas,  and  produce  each  five  blackish-brown  obliquely  ovate 
nutlets,  which  are  surrounded  by  the  enlarged  scales  and  have  a berry-like 
appearance.  The  leaves  have  a strongly  astringent,  bitter,  and  somewhat  acrid 
taste. 

Constituents. — The  leaves  contain  tannin,  which  produces  blue-black  pre- 
cipitates with  salts  of  iron.  The  poisonous  principle,  coriamyrtin , has  been 
isolated  and  studied  by  Riban  (1864-66),  who  precipitates  the  decoction  with 
subacetate  of  lead,  removes  the  lead  from  the  filtrate,  and  evaporates  to  a 
syrupy  consistence ; from  this  residue  the  principle  is  dissolved  by  ether.  It  is 
in  white  or  colorless  very  bitter  prisms,  which  dissolve  in  70  parts  of  water,  in 
50  of  alcohol,  and  in  less  ether,  chloroform,  and  benzene.  Its  composition  is  C30H36O10. 
It  is  rendered  brown  by  alkalies,  and  on  being  boiled  with  dilute  hydrochloric  acid  yields 
a body  which  reduces  Fehling’s  solution,  but  differs  from  sugar. 

Action  and  Uses.- — -Accidental  poisoning  has  occurred  by  mistaking  the  leaves  of 
this  plant  for  senna  and  the  fruit  for  blackberries.  Snails  that  lived  on  its  leaves  have 
poisoned  those  who  ate  thorn.  The  toxical  phenomena  generally  consisted  of  nausea, 
vomiting,  colic,  trismus,  and  general  convulsions,  ending  fatally  in  some  cases  within 
twenty-four  hours.  Experiments  upon  various  animals  gave  the  same  general  results, 
but  rabbits  were  usually  unaffected.  But  the  latter  animals  were  destroyed  by  coriamyr- 
tin in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.10  (If  grains)  given  internally,  and  Gm.  0.008  (l  grain) 
administered  hypodermically.  Gm.  0.20  (3  grains)  of  this  substance  sufficed  to  bring  on 
fatal  convulsions  in  dogs  in  periods  varying  from  twenty  to  seventy-five  minutes.  The 
phenomena  of  poisoning  by  the  plant  and  its  extract  resemble  those  induced  by  picro- 
toxin,  including  spasm,  frothing  at  the  mouth,  and  contraction  of  the  pupils;  and  the 
lesions  after  death  present  a similar  analogy,  for  they  consist  of  a normal  appearance  of 
the  gastro-intestinal  mucous  membrane,  congestion  of  the  meninges,  rapid  occurrence  of 
rigor  mortis,  distension  of  the  heart  with  dark  blood,  and  ecchymoses.  in  the  lungs.  The 
toot  poison  of  New  Zealand  has  been  proved  to  be  furnished  by  one  or  more  species  of 
Coriaria.  C.  ruscifolia,  eaten  by  animals,  renders  them  “ stupid  and  lethargic  until  roused 
into  a fit  of  frenzy  by  any  trivial  circumstance/’  Death  takes  place  by  exhaustion.  The 
goat,  however,  has  an  immunity  from  these  effects  (Am.  Jour.  Phar.,  lvi.  439). 


CORNUS,  U.  S. — Cornus. 

Dog  wood-bar  7c,  E. ; Eeorce  de  cornouiller  d grandes  Jleurs , Fr.  ; Grossbl'dthige  Kornel- 
rinde , Hornbaumrinde , G. 

The  bark  of  the  root  of  Cornus  florida,  Linne.  Bigelow,  Med.  Flora , t.  28 ; Bentley 
and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 136. 

Nat.  Ord. — Cornaceae. 

Origin. — The  tree  is  found  in  woodlands  from  Canada  and  Southern  New  England 
southward  throughout  the  United  States,  and  westward  to  Minnesota,  Eastern  Kansas, 
and  Texas : it  is  usually  from  4.5  to  6 M.  (15  to  20  feet)  high,  and  in  favorable  localities 
attains  double  that  height.  The  opposite  leaves  are  ovate,  pointed,  about  10  Cm.  (4 
inches)  long,  and  become  crimson  in  autumn  ; the  small  greenish  flowers  are  in  capitate 
clusters  surrounded  by  four  large  involucral  leaves,  which  are  notched  at  the  apex,  of  a 
white  color,  sometimes  tinged  with  purple,  and  quite  showy.  The  drupaceous  fruit  is 
bright  red.  Cornus  Nuttallii  of  the  Pacific  States  resembles  this  species,  and  probably 
has  similar  properties. 

Description. — The  bark  of  the  root,  which  is  preferred,  is  usually  met  with  in  com- 
merce, and  is  in  broken  somewhat  curved  pieces,  about  3 Mm.  (f  inch)  thick  and  rarely 


544 


COE  YD  A LIS. 


over  5 Cm.  (2  inches)  long  and  wide.  The  furrowed  corky  layer  is  dark  ash-colored  or 
brown-gray,  in  the  young  bark  smooth  and  marked  with  small  oblong  white  spots.  The 
Pharmacopoeia  directs  the  corky  layer  to  be  removed,  when  the  outer  surface  is  of  a pale 
reddish-  or  light  reddish-brown  color,  and  rather  darker  than  the  inner  surface,  which  is 
of  a rusty  rose-color  and  striate ; the  longitudinal  as  well  as  the  transverse  fracture  is 
short,  of  a whitish  color,  and  with  brown-yellow  striae  of  stone-cells.  It  is  almost  with- 
out odor  and  has  an  astringent  and  bitter  taste. 

Constituents  .■ — Geiger  (1836)  separated  the  bitter  principle,  cornin  or  comic  add , 
by  treating  the  cold  infusion  with  plumbic  hydroxide,  evaporating  the  filtrate,  treating 
the  extract  with  absolute  alcohol,  adding  ether,  and  crystallizing.  Frey  (1879)  found  it 
difficult  to  obtain  the  principle  pure  without  loss.  It  is  in  white,  silky  bitter  needles, 
readily  soluble  in  water  and  alcohol,  slightly  soluble  in  ether,  colored  dark  by  alkalies,  and 
precipitated  by  silver  nitrate  and  basic  lead  acetate,  but  not  by  other  normal  salts.  We 
observed  (1859)  that  the  bitter  principle  when  in  aqueous  solution  containing  a little 
ammonia  is  altered  and  destroyed  by  exposure  to  air  and  heat.  Geiger  separated  also  a 
tasteless  resinous  body  crystallizing  in  shining  needles.  Cockburn  (1835),  besides  some 
unimportant  principles,  recognized  the  presence  of  gallic  acid  and  tannin,  producing  a 
bluish-black  color  with  iron.  Bowman  (1869)  obtained  only  3 per  cent,  of  tannin. 
Frey,  in  addition  to  these  principles,  isolated  a bland  inodorous  orange-colored  fixed  oil, 
and  ascertained  that  the  resin  dissolves  with  an  orange  color  in  cold  sulphuric  acid. 

Allied  Plants. — 1.  Cornus  circinata,  L1  Heritier. — Round-leaved  dogwood,!?.;  Cornouiller, 
a feuilles  arrondies,  Fr.  ; Oanadischer  (Rundblatteriger)  Kornel,  G. — This  shrub  is  met  with 
in  Canada,  and  in  the  United  States  as  far  south  as  Virginia  and  west  to  Iowa,  growing  in 
copses  in  rich  soil.  It  attains  a height  of  1.8  to  3.0  M.  (6  to  9 feet),  has  greenish  wafty 
dotted  branches  and  orbicular  or  broadly  ovate  opposite  leaves,  which  are  12  Cm.  (5  inches) 
or  less  long,  abruptly  pointed  and  white  woolly  beneath.  The  white  flowers  are  in  flat  cymes ; 
the  fruit  is  drupaceous,  light  bjue.  The  bark  is  in  thin,  irregular  pieces  or  short  quills,  which 
are  externally  greenish  and  warty  when  from  young  branches,  or  from  older  branches  of  a 
brownish-gray  color,  with  the  warts  confluent  in  slightly-raised  longitudinal  lines  of  a glossy 
brown.  The  inner  surface  is  cinnamon-brown,  even,  and  very  finely  striate.  The  bark  breaks 
with  an  even  scarcely  fibrous  fracture  through  the  pale-reddish  inner  layer.  The  odor  is  slight, 
the  taste  not  unpleasant,  somewhat  astringent,  and  bitter.  Rob.  Gibson  (1880)  found  it  to  agree 
in  composition  with  the  official  bark. 

2.  Cornus  sericea,  Linn£. — Swamp  dogwood,  Silky  cornel,  Red  hosier,  Kinnikinnick,  E. ; 
Cornouiller  soyeux,  Fr. ; Sumpf  kornel,  G. — This  common  shrub  is  found  in  moist  woods,  on 
the  margins  of  streams  and  swamps,  from  Canada  south  to  Florida,  and  westward  to  Texas  and 
Dakota.  It  is  1.8  to  3 M.  (6  to  10  feet)  high,  has  purplish  branches  and  opposite,  elliptic-ovate, 
and  pointed  leaves,  which  are  covered  underneath  with  rust-colored  silky  down.  The  yellowish- 
white  flowers,  having  conspicuous  calyx  teeth,  are  in  close,  flat,  and  woolly  pubescent  cymes, 
followed  by  pale-blue  fruits.  The  bark  is  usually  in  much-broken  pieces,  resembling  the  pre- 
ceding, but  having  a distinct  purple  tint  and  being  less  warty.  Its  constituents  are  probably 
the  same. 

3.  Cornus  mascula,  Linne. — Cornelian  cherry,  E. ; Cornouille,  Fr. ; Kornelkirsche,  Durlitze, 
Herlitze,  G. ; Corniolo,  It. — A shrub  or  small  tree  indigenous  to  Southern  and  Central  Europe, 
and  somewhat  cultivated  in  the  United  States  for  ornament.  It  is  3 to  6 M.  (10  to  20  feet)  high, 
and  produces,  preceding  the  leaves,  capitate  umbels  of  yellow  flowers  surrounded  by  a four- 
leaved dingy-yellow  or  greenish  involucre.  The  bright-red  glossy  elliptic  drupe  is  about  2 Cm. 
(f  inch)  long,  in  the  green  state  strongly  astringent,  but  when  ripe  of  an  acidulous  sweet  and 
slightly  astringent  taste,  and  edible. 

Action  and  Uses. — Dogwood  is  tonic,  astringent,  and  slightly  stimulant,  and  in 
the  recent  state  is  apt  to  produce  nausea.  Like  other  vegetable  bitters,  it  has  been 
popularly  used  as  a remedy  for  intermittent  fever.  Its  virtues  as  a stomachic  tonic  are 
more  demonstrable.  The  dose  of  the  powdered  bark  as  a tonic  is  about  Gm.  1.30  (gr. 
xx),  and  three  times  that  quantity,  repeated  six  or  seven  times  during  the  apyrexia, 
may  be  given  in  intermittent  fever.  A decoction  or  the  officinal  fluid  extract  is  to  be 
preferred. 

Swamp  dogwood  (C.  sericea)  is  less,  and  round-leaved  dogwood  (C.  circinata)  more, 
bitter  than  this  species,  while  the  first-named  excels  in  astringency.  The  former  is  stated 
to  be  used  medicinally  in  decoction  as  an  emetic  and  expectorant  by  the  Indians  of  the 
Pacific  North-west  (Holmes  ; Spaydon). 

CORYDALIS. — Turkey  Corn. 

Squirrel  corn,  Turkey  pea , E. 

The  tubers  of  Dicentra  canadensis,  De  Candolle , s.  Dielytra  eximia,  Pursh, 

Nat.  Ord. — Fumariaceae, 


CORYLTJS. 


545 


Origin. — The  plant  is  a perennial,  has  bi-ternate  somewhat  glaucous  radical  leaves, 
with  the  leaflets  dissected  into  linear-oblong  segments  and  several  scapes  bearing  about 
four  greenish-white  flowers,  which  are  tinged  with  purple,  nearly  12  Mm.  (1  inch)  long, 
heart-shaped,  and  have  two  short  and  rounded  spurs.  It  grows  in  rich  rocky  woods  as 
far  south  as  Kentucky,  but  is  more  frequent  farther  north  and  in  Canada. 

Description, — -The  thin  subterranean  shoots  bear  small  tubers,  which  are  collected. 
They  are  depressed  globose,  6 to  10  Mm.  (I  to  £ inch)  thick,  of  a tawny-yellow  color, 
nearly  smooth,  with  a scar  on  each  of  the  depressed  sides,  internally  yellow  or  yellowish- 
white.  The  tuber  breaks  with  a somewhat  horny  or  slightly  mealy  fracture,  is  nearly 
inodorous,  and  has  a bitterish  and  rather  persistent  taste. 

Constituents. — W.  T.  Wenzell  (1855)  obtained  from  it  corydaline,  fumaric  acid, 
yellow  bitter  extractive,  an  acrid  resin,  starch,  and  other  common  principles  of  plants. 
The  alkaloid  was  obtained  by  evaporating  the  tincture,  separating  the  resin  by  filtration, 
precipitating  the  filtrate  with  ammonia,  and  exhausting  the  precipitate  with  alcohol. 
This  solution  was  evaporated,  the  residue  treated  with  dilute  hydrochloric  acid,  the  salt 
thus  formed  again  precipitated  by  ammonia,  and  the  alkaloid  purified  by  repeated  crystal- 
lization. Corydaline  was  discovered  by  Wackenroder  (1826)  in  the  tubers  of  Corydalis 
tuberosa  and  fabacea.  It  is  a white  amorphous  powder,  crystallizing  from  alcohol  in 
colorless  prisms  and  scales,  its  solution  having  a very  bitter  taste.  It  is  soluble  in  alco- 
hol, ether,  chloroform,  and  in  the  fixed  and  volatile  oils,  fuses  at  about  70°  C.  (158°  F.), 
yields  mostly  amorphous  salts,  and  is  colored  dark-red  by  sulphuric  acid  and  yellow  by 
nitric  acid,  or,  if  it  contains  resin,  blood-red  by  the  last-named  agent. 

Allied  Plants. — Corydalis  tuberosa,  Re  Candolle. — Fumeterre  bulbeuse,  Fr. ; Hohlwurzel, 
Helimvurzel,  G. — It  is  indigenous  to  the  hilly  woodlands  of  Europe.  The  tubers  vary  from  1 
to  4 Cm.  (J  to  2 inches)  in  thickness,  are  roundish,  gray-brown,  internally  greenish-yellow  or 
whitish,  firm ; when  old,  hollow  and  frequently  lobed. 

Cor.  fabacea,  Persoon , another  European  plant,  has  small  tubers  which  are  never  hollow. 

Dicentra  eximia,  De  Candolle , s.  Corydalis  formosa,  Pursh , indigenous  to  the  United  States, 
has  a scaly  rhizome  and  a compound  raceme  of  oblong  purplish  flowers,  which  are  about  18 
Mm.  (f  inch)  long  and  have  two  very  short  saccate  spurs. 

Action  and  Uses. — As  long  ago  as  1855  it  was  stated  that  “ the  root  of  C.  formosa 
is  supposed  to  be  tonic,  diuretic,  and  alterative,  and  is  given  in  syphilitic,  scrofulous,  and 
cutaneous  affections  in  the  dose  of  from  10  to  30  grains.”  Since  then  there  appears  to 
have  been  nothing  more  definite  made  known  respecting  the  virtues  of  this  plant.  The 
resin  which  it  contains,  and  on  which  depend  whatever  virtues  it  may  possess,  is  probably 
worthy  of  being  suitably  tested.  Numerous  species  of  Corydalis  occur  in  Europe,  from 
one  of  which  a resin  is  obtained,  by  precipitation  from  a tincture,  which  is  alleged  to 
have  cured  intermittent  fever;  and  another,  C.  tuberosa,  is  regarded  as  emmenagogue, 
anthelmintic,  etc. 


CORYLUS.— Hazel. 

Noisetier , Fr. ; Hasel , G. 

Nat.  Ord. — Cupuliferae. 

Description. — The  following  species  have  been  used  : 

Corylus  ayellana,  Linne , is  a shrub  3 to  4.5  M.  (10  to  15  feet)  high,  common  in 
woodlands  and  thickets  in  Europe  and  Northern  Asia,  and  cultivated  to  some  extent  in 
the  United  States.  It  has  somewhat  hairy,  roundish-ovate,  and  pointed  leaves,  with 
a heart-shaped  base,  flowers  in  March,  and  ripens  its  fruit  in  autumn.  It  has  bony  nuts, 
which  are  enclosed  in  a bell-shaped  involucre,  are  nearly  25  Mm.  (1  inch)  long,  and  have 
a smooth,  light-brown,  woody  shell  enclosing  a white,  oily,  and  sweetish  kernel.  The  nut 
is  known  as  filbert.  The  seeds  contain  over  50  per  cent,  of  fixed  oil.  Hazelnut  oil  is 
pale-yellow,  inodorous,  has  a mild  nutty  taste,  and  congeals  at  about  — 17.8  C.  (0°  F.)  ; 
it  consists  of  olein,  arachin,  palmitin,  and  stearin.  By  nitric  acid  it  becomes  greenish, 
and  by  sulphuric  acid  bluish-green  and  gray. 

Corylus  Americana,  Walter , is  common  in  thickets  in  North  America,  has  obovate- 
cordate  and  acuminate  leaves,  and  yields  a fruit  about  13  Mm.  (£  inch)  long  and  wide, 
which  is  enclosed  in  an  open  involucre  of  about  twice  the  length  of  the  fruit. 

Corylus  rostrata,  Alton , grows  in  Canada,  in  the  northern  part  of  the  United 
States,  and  along  the  Alleghanies,  and  is  about  0.6  to  1.5  M.  (2  to  5 feet)  high.  The 
leaves  are  oblong-ovate,  pointed,  and  somewhat  heart-shaped.  The  fruit  is  enclosed  in 
a long  hirsute  involucre,  which  above  is  contracted  into  a long  tubular  beak. 

35 


546 


COTTJLA.— COTYLEDON. 


Action  and  Uses.— The  spiculae  which  cover  the  involucre  of  C.  rostrata  have 
been  used  with  alleged  effect  as  a substitute  for  those  of  mucuna  in  the  treatment  of 
intestinal  worms. 


COTULA. — May- weed. 

Herba  chamomillse  foetidse. — Wild  chamomile.  Dog  chamomile.  E. ; Chamomille  puante, 
Herhe  de  mar  ante,  Fr.  ; Hundskam  illen , G. 

The  herb  of  Maruta  Cotula,  De  Candolle,  s.  Maruta  foetida,  Cassini,  s.  Anthemis 
Cotula,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Compositae,  Anthemidese. 

Description. — This  nearly  smooth  annual  is  originally  indigenous  to  Europe,  but  is 
now  a very  common  weed  in  many  parts  of  North  America,  growing  along  roadsides,  in 
neglected  fields,  and  in  waste  places.  The  stem  is  about  30  Cm.  (1  foot)  high,  with 
ascending  branches  from  the  base,  cylindrical,  furrowed,  somewhat  hairy  above.  The 
sessile  leaves  are  obovate  in  outline,  thrice  pinnately  divided,  with  linear  subulate  lobes, 
pale-green,  and  slightly  hairy  beneath.  The  flower-heads  terminate  the  branches  upon 
soft  hairy  peduncles.  The  numerous  involucral  scales  are  somewhat  imbricate,  ovate, 
with  whitish  scarious  margins.  The  receptacle  is  conical,  not  hollow  ; chaff  nearly  sub- 
ulate, shorter  than  the  florets ; ray-florets  white,  ligulate,  three-toothed,  neutral ; disk- 
florets  tubular,  yellow  ; akenes  obovoid,  ribbed,  and  without  pappus.  The  plant  begins 
to  flower  in  June,  and  has  an  unpleasant  aromatic  odor  and  a bitterish  acrid  taste. 

Constituents. — The  flowers  were  analyzed  by  Wm.  H.  Warner  (1858),  and  found 
to  contain  a little  volatile  oil,  some  tannin,  valerianic  and  oxalic  acids,  an  acrid  fatty  sub- 
stance, bitter  extractive,  etc.  Pattone  (1859)  announced  the  discovery  of  an  alkaloid, 
anthemidine , and  of  a crystallizable  bitter  acid,  anthemidic  acid,  the  latter  of  which  is 
dissolved  from  the  aqueous  extract  by  alcohol  and  is  also  soluble  in  ether.  The  undis- 
solved portion  of  the  extract,  taken  up  with  water  and  treated  with  ammonia,  is  said  to 
yield  the  alkaloid,  which,  however,  has  not  been  obtained  since. 

Action  and  Uses. — May-weed,  or  wild  chamomile,  resembles  officinal  chamomile 
in  most  of  its  qualities  and  uses,  but  its  smell  is  different  in  being  fetid,  and  its  juice  is 
capable  of  blistering  the  skin.  Its  rank  odor  and  acrid  qualities  probably  led  to  its  being 
used  as  a nervine  stimulant  in  such  cases  as  those  for  which  valerian  is  usually 
employed,  and  especially  for  the  relief  of  flatulent  colic  and  dysmenorrhoea.  Its  excitant 
properties  adapted  it  to  popular  use  as  a sudorific  and  antispasmodic.  The  leaves  are 
commonly  applied  externally,  but  an  infusion  of  the  flowers  is  preferable  for  internal  use. 

COTYLEDON. — Navelwort,  Pennywort. 

Cotylct,  Nombril  de  Venus , Fr.  ; Nabelkraut,  G. ; Ombligo  de  Venus,  Sp. 

Cotyledon  Umbilicus,  Linne,  s.  Umbilicus  pendulinus,  De  Candolle. 

Nat.  Ord. — Crassulaceae. 

Description. — A perennial  herb  of  Southern  and  Western  Europe,  growing  on 
rocks  and  old  walls.  It  has  a fleshy,  tuberous  root  and  an  erect  stem  about  15  Cm. 
(6  inches)  high.  The  leaves  are  smooth,  fleshy,  peltate,  concave,  roundish,  and  repand- 
crenate,  about  25  Mm.  (1  inch)  broad,  the  upper  ones  smaller,  roundish,  wedge-shaped, 
and  on  shorter  petioles.  The  numerous  small  flowers  are  greenish-yellow  and  tubular, 
bell-shaped,  with  a five-parted  corolla,  ten  stamens,  and  five  many-ovuled  ovaries.  The 
dry  plant  is  inodorous  and  has  a mucilaginous  taste. 

Constituents. — Navelwort  was  analyzed  by  Hetet  (1864)  with  the  following  results  : 
The  fresh  plant  contains  95  per  cent,  of  water,  0.001  per  cent,  of  salt  of  trimethylamine, 
the  same  quantity  of  ammonia  salt,  0.9  per  cent,  potassium  nitrate,  2.063  per  cent,  of 
other  salts,  the  remaining  2.035  per  cent,  being  sugar,  mucilage,  starch,  cellulose,  etc. 

Action  and  Uses. — Between  1849  and  1855  several  English  practitioners 
abounded  in  eulogies  of  this  plant  as  a remedy  for  epilepsy.  They  were,  for  the  most 
part,  gentlemen  of  good,  and  even  of  eminent,  professional  standing,  and  their  opinions 
for  a time  led  physicians  astray  ; but  when  the  medicine  had  been  tried  by  experts  both 
in  England  and  upon  the  Continent,  it  was  adjudged  to  be  utterly  worthless.  Against 
this  sentence  there  has  been  no  appeal.  Formerly  the  mucilaginous  leaves  of  the  plant 
were  applied  to  contusions. 


CIIEOSOTUM. 


547 


CREOSOTUM,  U.  S.— Creosote. 

Creasotum , Br. ; Kreosotum , P.  G. — Creosote , Fr. ; Kreosot,  G. ; Creosoto,  It. 

A mixture  of  phenols,  chiefly  guaiacol  and  creosol,  obtained  during  the  distillation  of 
wood-tar,  preferably  of  that  derived  from  the  beech,  Fagus  sylvatica,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Cupuliferse.- 

Origin  and  Preparation. — Creosote,  which  was  prepared  by  Reichenbach  (1830), 
is  one  of  the  numerous  products  resulting  from  the  dry  distillation  of  wood.  According 
to  Voelckel,  it  is  not  produced  from  cellulose,  but  rather  from  the  incrusting  layers  of 
the  wood-cells.  Crude  wood  vinegar  is  stated  to  contain  about  1 per  cent.,  but  beech- 
wood  tar  occasionally  25  per  cent,  of  it ; the  latter  is  therefore  the  best  material  for  its 
preparation.  To  obtain  it  the  tar  is  distilled  until  about  one-half  is  passed  over  and  dense 
vapors  of  paraffin,  etc.  make  their  appearance.  The  distillate  separates  into  a heavy  and 
light  oily  layer,  with  an  intervening  aqueous  stratum  of  an  acid  reaction.  The  light  oil 
contains  eupion.  The  heavy  oil  is  treated  with  a concentrated  solution  of  sodium  carbo- 
nate, and  the  separated  oily  liquid  is  distilled,  that  portion  of  the  distillate  only  being 
collected  which  is  heavier  than  water.  This  distillate  is  treated  with  potassa  solution 
spec.  grav.  1.12,  whereby  the  creosote  is  dissolved  and  eupion  separated.  The  potassa 
solution  is  now  supersaturated  with  sulphuric  acid,  and  the  precipitated  creosote  well 
washed  with  water  and  rectified,  the  product  distilling  at  and  above  203°  C.  (397°  F.) 
being  collected.  The  treatment  with  potassa  and  sulphuric  acid  is  repeated  until  the 
potassium  creosote  solution  does  not  turn  brown  on  being  heated  in  the  air. 

To  obtain  it  from  crude  pyroligneous  acid  the  oily  constituents  are  first  separated  by 
saturating  the  crude  acid  with  sodium  sulphate  at  about  70°  C.  (158°  F.),  and  while 
warm  skimming  off  the  supernatant  layer.  The  cold  thick  oil  is  distilled,  treated  with 
sodium  carbonate,  and  further  purified  as  above. 

Properties. — Creosote  is  a colorless  oily  liquid  ; age  renders  it  slightly  yellowish, 
but  even  exposure  to  direct  sunlight  should  scarcely  render  it  brown  (P.  G .)  ; but  the 
U.  S.  P.  permits  it  to  turn  reddish-yellow  or  brown  by  exposure  to  light  from  the  pres- 
ence of  tar-oils.  It  is  very  refractive  to  light,  neutral  to  test-paper,  of  a peculiar  pene- 
trating smoky  odor,  and  of  a caustic  and  burning  taste.  Its  specific  gravity  should  not 
be  below  1.070  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  TJ.  S.,  P.  G. ; 1.071  Br.  “Soluble  in  about  150 
parts  of  water  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  but  without  forming  a perfectly  clear  solution.  With 
120  parts  of  hot  water  it  forms  a clear  liquid,  which  becomes  turbid  on  cooling  and  sep- 
arates oily  droplets.  The  filtrate  from  this  yields  a reddish-brown  precipitate  with 
bromine  test-solution  (distinction  from  carbolic  acid).  It  is  also  soluble,  in  all  propor- 
tions, in  absolute  alcohol,  ether,  chloroform,  benzin,  carbon  disulphide,  acetic  acid,  fixed 
and  volatile  oils.  It  begins  to  boil  at  about  205°  C.  (401°  F.),  and  most  of  it  distils 
over  between  205°  and  215°  C.  (401°  and  419°  F.).  When  it  is  cooled  to  — 20°  C. 
( — 4°  F.)  it  becomes  gelatinous,  but  does  not  solidify  (difference  from  carbolic  acid.). 
It  is  inflammable,  burning  with  a luminous,  smoky  flame.  It  is  neutral  or  only  faintly 
acid  to  litmus-paper.” — (J.  S.  It  takes  up  50  per  cent,  of  glycerin  or  15  per  cent,  of 
ammonia  sp.  gr.  0.940.  When  agitated  with  an  equal  bulk  of  ammonia-water  it  separates 
unchanged  on  standing,  but  it  dissolves  in  potassa  solution,  the  liquid  giving  off  creosote 
when  heated  to  boiling.  It  causes  precipitates  with  solutions  of  gum  and  albumen,  but 
not  with  gelatin,  and  does  not  render  collodion  gelatinous  (difference  from  carbolic  acid). 
It  preserves  meat,  probably  in  consequence  of  its  behavior  with  albumen,  and  is  present 
in  the  smoke  of  burning  wood.  Creosote  is  decomposed  by  strong  nitric  and  sulphuric 
acids,  and  in  contact  with  silver  nitrate  the  latter  is  reduced. 

Composition. — That  creosote  is  a mixture  of  a number  of  different  compounds  has 
been  long  known,  but  their  isolation  has  been  a matter  of  great  difficulty.  In  18G7, 
Gorup-  Besanez  recognized  the  presence  of  guaiacol,  C7II802,  and  creosol , C8H,0O2,  in  beech- 
wood  tar  creosote ; both  are  oily  liquids  of  the  general  properties  of  creosote,  the  former 
boiling  at  200°  C.  (392°  F.),  the  latter  between  220°  and  224°  C.  (428°  and  435°  F.) 
(Tiemann  and  Koppe,  1881).  Heated  with  hydriodic  acid,  both  yield  methyl  iodide, 
and  in  addition  thereto  pyrocatechin,  C6II602,  is  produced  by  the  former,  and  by  the  latter 
a non-crystallizing  body  isomeric  with  orchin,  C7H802.  Tiemann  and  Mendelssohn  (1876) 
proved  also  the  presence  of  phlorol , C8II10O,  which  had  been  previously  supposed  to  exist 
in  it  and  in  impure  carbolic  acid,  the  so-called  coal-tar  creosote.  They  dissolved  the  por- 
tion obtained  by  fractional  distillation  near  220°  C.  (428°  F.)  in  ether,  and  added  con- 
centrated potassa  solution,  whereby  its  compound  with  creosol  was  separated,  while  the 
phlorol  remained  in  the  mother-liquor.  Reimer  observed  (1876)  that  guaiacol,  treated 


548 


CREOSOTUM. 


with  chloroform  and  soda,  and  afterward  with  an  acid,  is  converted  into  vanillin , the 
aldehyde  of  vanillic  acid , which  latter  was  obtained  from  creosol  by  converting  it  first  into 
acetyl-creosol  and  oxidizing  this  with  potassium  permanganate  (Tiemann  and  Mendelssohn, 

1877). 

Besides  the  three  principles  named,  others  are  likely  to  be  present  in  creosote  from 
different  sources,  such  as  methyl-creosol , C9H120  (boiling-point  215°  C.  = 419°  F.),  and 
metliyl-guaiacol , C8H10O2  (boiling-point  205°  C.,  401°  F.)  The  creosols  and  phenols  boil- 
ing below  200°  C.  (392°  F.)  should  be  absent  (see  page  40). 

Tests. — “On  mixing  equal  volumes  of  creosote  and  collodion  in  a dry  test-tube,  no 
coagulum  should  form.  If  1 volume  of  creosote  be  mixed  with  1 volume  of  glycerin,  a 
nearly  clear  mixture  will  result,  from  which  the  creosote  will  be  separated  by  the  addi- 
tion of  1 or  more  volumes  of  water.  On  adding  to  10  Cc.  of  a 1 per  cent,  aqueous  solu- 
tion of  creosote  1 drop  of  ferric  chloride  test-solution,  the  liquid  will  aquire  a violet-blue 
tint  which  rapidly  changes  to  greenish  and  brown,  with  formation,  usually,  of  a brown 
precipitate.  (The  preceding  three  tests  show  difference  from  and  absence  of  notable 
quantities  of  carbolic  acid.)  On  mixing  2 Cc.  of  creosote  with  8 Cc.  of  a 71  per  cent, 
solution  of  sodium  hydroxide,  a clear,  pale  yellowish  liquid  results,  which  becomes  turbid 
when  diluted  with  water,  but  clears  up  after  50  Cc.  have  been  added  (absence  of  neutral 
oils).  If  1 Cc.  of  creosote  be  mixed  with  a 20-per-cent,  solution  of  potassium  hydroxide 
in  absolute  alcohol,  a solid  crystalline  mass  will  form  upon  cooling.  If  1 Cc.  of  creosote 
is  shaken  with  2 Cc.  of  benzin  and  2 Cc.  of  freshly  prepared  barium  hydroxide  test-solu- 
tion, upon  separating,  the  benzin  should  not  be  blue  or  muddy,  and  the  aqueous  layer 
should  not  have  a red  tint  (absence  of  coerulignol  and  some  other  high-boiling  constituents 
of  wood-tar.” — U.  S. 

Frohdds  reagent , prepared  by  dissolving  1 part  of  molybdic  acid  in  100  parts  of  sul- 
phuric acid,  has  been  found  by  E.  W.  Davy  (1878)  to  be  a reliable  test  for  detecting  an 
admixture  of  carbolic  acid  in  creosote,  the  former  producing  with  the  reagent  a yellowish 
or  brownish  tint,  passing  into  maroon  or  reddish-brown,  and  finally  into  beautiful  purple; 
the  latter  causes  a brown  or  reddish-brown  color,  which  becomes  fainter,  and  finally  light 
yellowish-brown.  The  test  is  applied  by  adding  1 or  2 drops  of  the  aqueous  solution  of 
the  substance  to  3 or  4 drops  of  the  reagent ; warming  the  mixture  gently  will  hasten 
the  production  of  the  final  coloration.  If  the  creosote  contains  but  a small  quantity  of 
carbolic  acid,  10  drops  of  it  are  dissolved  in  J ounce  of  water  and  the  solution  distilled. 
The  first  portion  of  the  distillate  will  give  the  creosote  reaction,  and  the  last  portion  that 
of  carbolic  acid. 

It  should  be  stated  that  much  of  the  commercial  creosote  is  coal-tar  creosote,  and 
readily  recognizable  as  such  by  its  behavior  with  ferric  chloride. 

Action  and  Uses.* — Applied  pure  to  a mucous  membrane  or  to  the  raw  cutis,  it 
excites  severe  burning  pain,  coagulates  the  albumen  of  the  secretion,  and  may  even  pro- 
duce ulceration.  Its  taste  is  very  penetrating  and  peculiar,  and  may  be  detected  in  a 
solution  of  1 part  of  creasote  in  1000  of  water.  In  doses  of  1 or  2 drops  it  causes 
burning  in  the  throat  and  oesophagus.  Larger  medicinal  doses,  if  continued,  are  apt  to 
occasion  a sort  of  intoxication,  with  giddiness,  dulness,  debility,  frequent  pulse,  and 
dyspnoea.  The  urine  is  increased  and  blackened,  and  exhales  the  odor  of  the  medicine ; 
sometimes  there  is  strangury.  The  vapor,  when  inhaled,  is  soporific.  Applied  exter- 
nally to  an  ulcer,  creasote  has  occasioned  faintness,  palpitation,  etc.  The  case  is 
reported  of  a man  who  applied  to  his  hair  creasote  instead  of  oil,  and  changed  its  color 
to  gray  (Mmer.  Jour.  Pkar .,  lix.  114).  Excessive  doses  may  cause  severe  abdominal 
pain  and  bloody  stools.  A case  in  which  2 drachms  were  taken  ended  fatally.  Another 
case  is  reported  in  which  an  infant  a year  old  is  said  to  have  taken  a teaspoonful  of 
creasote,  and  recovered  after  having  exhibited  great  debility,  pallor,  a hoarse,  croupy 
cough,  and  stertorous  breathing  (Grinnell,  Med.  News,  xl.  344).  A fatal  case  occurring 
in  an  infant  was  remarkable  for  the  severe  lesions  of  the  mouth,  throat,  etc.  ( Edinb . 
Med.  Jour.,  xxviii.  655). 

The  first  medicinal  use  of  creasote  was  to  check  vomiting  in  cholera,  and  subsequently 
it  was  found  to  relieve  this  symptom  produced  by  reflex  irritation  by  exhaustion  in 
alcoholism,  by  sea-sickness,  by  Bright’s  disease,  by  malignant  disease  of  the  stomach, 
and  by  certain  forms  of  dyspepsia,  probably  of  the  fermentative  sort.  It  is  alleged  to 
have  cured  tapeworm , as  carbolic  acid  has  also  been.  Its  manifest  haemostatic  powers 

* The  almost  complete  substitution  in  commerce  of  carbolic  acid  for  creasote,  and  the  very  close 
analogy  in  their  operation,  render  unnecessary  a more  detailed  account  of  the  latter  than  is  given  in 
the  text. 


CREOSOTUM. 


549 


in  external  haemorrhage  led  to  its  use  in  bleeding  from  the  lungs,  stomach,  bowels, 
kidneys,  bladder,  and  uterus,  and  its  analogous  operation  was  employed  to  correct  exces- 
sive secretion  in  diabetes , polyuria , broncliorrhoea . chronic  bronchitis , and  laryngitis. 
When  first  introduced  by  Reichenbach  in  1833,  it  was  reputed  by  him  to  be  a remedy 
for  phthisis , and  Elliotson,  in  the  following  year,  published  cases  of  its  efficacy  in  this 
disease  (. Med.-Chir . Trans.,  xix.  221).  In  1836,  Carmack  confirmed  the  previous  state- 
ments, and  added  a long  list  of  diseases  in  which  the  virtues  of  creasote  were  displayed. 
It  soon,  however,  fell  into  discredit,  and  so  remained  until  1876,  when  Imlay  recom- 
mended its  use  in  an  atomized  solution  for  the  relief  of  phthisis  ( Lancet , Nov.  1876,  p. 
514).  The  following  year  Bouchard  renewed  the  vogue  of  the  medicine,  and  cited  Ver- 
beck  as  having  Ci  cured  ” consumption  by  its  internal  use  (j Bull,  de  Therap .,  xciii.  289). 
Thenceforth  it  attracted  more  attention  in  Germany  than  elsewhere,  where  it  was 
extolled  by  Sommerbrodt  (Cent r alb.  f.  Therap.,  v.  255;  Therap.  Monatsh.,  iii.  298), 
Fraentzel  ( Centralb . f.  Therap.,  v.  440),  Lublinski  (ibid.,  v.  631),  Engel  (Centralb.  f. 
Therap.,  iii.  501),  and  many  others.  In  Great  Britain  it  seems  to  have  inspired  little 
confidence,  and  in  the  United  States  to  have  met  with  a very  limited  acceptance  (Robin- 
son, Trans.  Asso.  Amer.  Physicians,  iii.  365;  Flint,  Amer.  Jour.  Med.  Sci.,  Jan.  1889,  p. 
75;  Nov.  1890,  p.  500).  Indeed,  a survey  of  the  reports  made  by  its  advocates  show 
— 1.  That  the  percentage  of  cures  attributed  to  it  is  exceedingly  small.  2.  That  its 
virtues  were  displayed  only  in  the  forming  stage  of  the  disease.  3.  That  the  patients 
said  to  have  improved  were  using,  besides  creasote,  cod-liver  oil  and  other  medicines,  as 
well  as  undergoing  various  dietetic  and  hygienic  modes  of  treatment.  4.  That  the 
hypothetical  rational  ground  of  its  use — viz.  that  it  destroyed  the  bacilli  of  tubercle — 
was  proved  a delusion  by  Bogdonovitch  (Med.  News,  Iii.  401),  since  they  abounded  in 
the  sputa  of  patients  using  the  medicine.  Moreover,  Dr.  Driver,  after  three  years’  use 
of  the  medicine,  concluded  that  it  had  little  to  do  with  the  improvement  of  patients  who 
were  taking  it  (Centralb.  f.  Therap.,  vi.  604).  It  was  also  found  that  its  assiduous  use 
frequently  inspired  the  patient  with  an  invincible  disgust,  and  occasioned  anorexia,  nau- 
sea, retching  and  vomiting,  gastric  irritability  and  oppression,  and  diarrhoea.  There  is  no 
better  agent  for  the  relief  of  toothache  due  to  caries  and  inflammation  of  the  dental  pulp. 
For  this  purpose  it  should  be  applied  upon  a small  and  dense  wad  of  cotton  or  lint. 
Creasote-water  is  sometimes  used  as  an  injection  to  cure  leucorrhcea  and  gleet ; it  is  an 
excellent  application  to  burns  and  chilblains  and  to  all  forms  of  ulcers  requiring  stimula- 
tion, but  especially  to  such  as  present  flabby  and  bloody  granulations  and  a fetid  dis- 
charge, as  in  cancer,  gangrene,  mercurial  stomatitis,  chronic  glanders,  ozsena,  etc.  Like 
other  stimulants,  it  has  been  used,  in  a diluted  form,  as  a lotion  in  erysipelas.  It  is  a 
useful  stimulant  in  certain  cases  of  deafness  due  to  dryness  of  the  external  auditory 
canal.  The  antiputrescent  power  of  this  substance  has  caused  it  to  be  used  to  preserve 
dead  animal  matter  for  dissection,  etc.  Creasote  has  been  given,  like  carbolic  acid,  for  its 
antizymotic  virtues  in  the  treatment  of  typhoid  fever , but,  however  it  may  seem  to  be 
theoretically  fitted  for  the  cure  of  that  disease,  its  efficacy  has  not  been  generally 
admitted.  Indeed,  if  it  act  in  the  manner  supposed,  its  advantages  are  not  very  explica- 
ble when  it  is  administered  by  enema,  as  Dujardin-Beaumetz  advises.  If  given  at  all.  it 
should  be  in  the  form  of  creasote-water,  and  by  the  mouth  in  the  dose  of  a fluidrachm. 
It  has  been  applied  as  a means  of  allaying  itching  in  numerous  diseases  of  the  skin,  but 
in  a concentrated  form  it  is  more  efficient  in  causing  the  shrivelling  and  destruction  of 
lupus,  warts , condylomata,  and  nsevi  materni.  Among  these  affections  lupus  is  claimed  to 
be  most  efficiently  treated  by  plasters  containing  salicylic  acid  and  creasote  in  various 
proportions  (Unna,  Lancet , Sept.  25,  1886).  If  carbolic  acid  were  not  so  universally  used 
instead  of  creasote,  it  would  still  be  preferable  as  having  a less  persistent  and  disagree- 
able smell.  This  may  be  removed  from  the  body  or  clothing  by  chlorinated  lotions. 
The  poisonous  effects  of  creasote  may  be  combated  with  wine,  coffee,  and  other  stimu- 
lants and  by  magnesium  sulphate. 

The  close  of  creasote  is  Gm.  0.05-0.10  (gtt.  j-ij).  It  may  be  given  in  pill  or  emulsion 
or  in  the  form  of  creasote-water.  It  is  rendered  more  miscible  with  water  by  the  addi- 
tion of  an  equal  quantity  of  solution  of  potassa.  Its  taste  may  be  disguised  by 
aromatic  waters.  It  may  also  be  used  by  inhalation,  dissolved  in  from  1 to  3 parts  of 
rectified  spirit.  When  applied  to  carious  teeth,  etc.  it  may  be  solidified  with  collodion. 

Probably  the  least  offensive  way  of  administering  it  is  in  capsules  containing  Gm.  0.05 
(1  grain)  of  creasote  and  Gm.  0.02  (A  grain)  of  Tolu  balsam,  and  gradually  increasing 
the  quantity  until  in  the  fourth  week  six  capsules  a day  are  taken.  Fraentzel  preferred 
a mixture  as  follows:  Creasote,  13.5  parts;  tinct.  of  gentian,  30  parts;  spirit  of  wine, 


550 


CUEOLINUM. 


250  parts ; sherry  wine  to  make  1000  parts.  Others  have  given  it  with  cod-liver  oil. 
Schetelig  administered  it  hypodermically  in  almond  oil  (Cent.  f.  Therap .,  vii.  278),  and 
Rosenbach  (Med.  News , lii.  462)  and  Stachiewicz  [Med.  Record , xxxiv.  508)  ventured 
to  inject  it  through  the  cliest-walls  into  the  tissue  of  the  lung.  Neudorfer  holds  that 
creasote  is  “of  equal  value  in  cancer  and  phthisis”  (Med.  Record , xxxv.  95 — a judg- 
ment that  does  not  encourage  its  use  in  either  disease. 

CREOLINUM.-Creolin. 

Creoline , Fr. ; Kreolin , G. 

Composition  and  Properties. — Creolin,  which  was  first  introduced  about  1887, 
is  a product  of  the  dry  distillation  of  coal,  and  is  said  to  be  obtained  by  freeing  that  por- 
tion of  coal-tar  boiling  between  180°  and  220°  C.  (356°  and  428°  F.)  from  carbolic  acid. 
The  composition  of  commercial  creolin  varies  considerably,  two  different  preparations 
being  sold  under  the  same  name — Pearson’s  creolin  in  England  (probably  identical  with 
Jeyes’  disinfectant)  and  Artmann’s  creolin  in  Germany.  The  latter  variety  is  but  little 
soluble  in  ether  in  which  Pearson’s  creolin  is  perfectly  soluble,  and  also  differs  from  it  in 
depositing  upon  standing  for  some  time,  particularly  when  cooled  with  ice,  hard,  white 
crystals  of  naphtalene,  which  are  sublimable  and  melt  at  79°-80°  C.,  boiling  at  216°- 
218°  C.  Published  analyses  by  Weyl,  Fischer,  Beckurts,  and  Otto  point  to  the  presence 
in  the  English  creolin  of  about  60  per  cent,  of  hydrocarbons  boiling  between  190°  and 
350°  C.,  from  10  to  22  per  cent,  of  phenols  boiling  between  200°  and  300°  C.,  about  0.8 
per  cent,  of  pyridine  bases,  2 to  4 per  cent,  of  soda,  and  variable  quantities  of  abietic 
acid  and  water.  Artmann’s  creolin  was  found  to  contain  less  phenols,  but  a much 
larger  percentage  (85  per  cent.)  of  hydrocarbons.  In  both  preparations  the  phenols  are 
combined  with  soda  and  it  is  probable  that  the  hydrocarbons  are  held  in  solution  by  the 
compounds  thus  formed.  The  method  of  preparing  both  products  is  kept  secret  by  the 
manufacturers.  Creolin  occurs  as  a dark-brown  syrupy  alkaline  liquid,  miscible  with 
water  and  soluble  in  alcohol,  fixed  oils,  and  chloroform  ; mixed  with  water  it  forms  milk- 
like emulsions. 

Action  and  Uses. — Thomesco  noted  no  injury  after  doses  of  Gm.  0.50  (gr.  viij), 
and  Spaeth  and  two  associates  each  took  as  much  as  Gm.  8 (^ij)  in  a day  without  injury 
(Bull,  de  Ther .,  cxv.  552).  Yet  it  is  certainly  poisonous  in  excessive  doses.  Eight 
ounces  of  it  taken  with  suicidal  intent  caused  unconsciousness,  followed  by  vomiting,  and, 
after  treatment,  by  recovery.  Thirst  was  suffered,  but  not  pain,  and  there  was  no  caustic 
action.  The  urine  smelled  of  carbolic  acid,  and  contained  albumen  and  blood.  Later  on 
there  was  slight  jaundice  (Berlin.  Min.  Wochensch , Aug.  1889).  A 1 to  2 per  cent, 
uterine  douche  after  delivery  has  caused  collapse  and  death  ( Therap.  Monatshefte , Oct. 
1889).  A 2 per  cent,  solution  applied  to  the  wound  made  in  operating  for  strangulated 
hernia  has  occasioned  a scarlatinoid  eruption,  thirst,  fever,  a small  and  rapid  pulse,  and  a 
discharge  of  urine  smelling  of  carbolic  acid  (Cramer).  A drop  or  two  of  a 2 per  cent, 
solution  placed  on  the  tongue  or  in  the  nasal  passages  or  throat  occasions  a burning  irri- 
tation, and  its  taste  clings  to  the  mouth  and  pharynx.  (For  cases  of  poisoning  by  creolin 
see  Therap.  Monatsh.,  iii.  434,  578 ; Lancet , Oct.  1889,  p.  811).  When  taken  internally 
it  deodorizes  the  stools,  but  is  apt  to  provoke  diarrhoea.  It  neutralizes  the  fetor  of  gan- 
grenous ulcers,  which  it  also  stimulates  and  heals.  Its  application  to  such  sores  and  to 
open  wounds  does  not  usually  occasion  toxical  phenomena ; but  some  exceptions  have 
been  noticed  above.  It  also  sometimes  causes  eczema.  It  does  not  corrode  metallic 
instruments,  but  it  acts  rapidly  on  caoutchouc  and  gutta-percha.  It  has  been  pronounced 
the  best  deodorant  yet  discovered  (Otis). ' Objections  to  its  use  are  that  it  makes  an 
opaque  mixture  with  water,  and  that  instruments  dipped  in  it  become  slippery.  It  also 
within  wounds  retards  their  healing.  Moreover,  it  discolors  the  hands  and  makes  the 
skin  rough.  In  1887,  when  a veterinary  professor  brought  into  notice  the  antiseptic 
action  of  creolin,  it  was  employed  in  surgery  by  Y.  Esmarch,  who  pronounced  it  superior 
to  carbolic  acid  as  a deodorizing,  disinfecting,  and  antiseptic  agent,  and  found  that  in  a 
soap  it  was  more  efficient  than  corrosive  sublimate  for  these  purposes  ( Lancet , Oct.  15, 
1887),  and  did  not  burn  or  smart.  His  observations  were  soon  confirmed  by  Kortiim 
(Centralb.  f Ther.,  v.  708),  who  employed  a 1 per  cent,  watery  solution  to  correct  the 
fetor  of  puerperal  discharges  and  of  foul  ulcers.  For  the  latter  he  employed  a 1-2  per 
cent,  solution  on  gauze  compresses,  and  also  used  it  to  repress  suppuration  and  promote 
healing,  and,  in  fact,  for  all  the  similar  purposes  to  which  corrosive  sublimate  was  then 
applied,  with  equal  advantage  and  less  danger.  These  results  were  confirmed  by 


CREOLIN  UM. 


551 


Neudorfer  ( Centralb.  f Ther .,  vi.  227),  who  also  found  that  creolin  relieved  pain,  checked 
haemorrhage,  and  limited  suppuration.  He  applied  a I per  cent,  solution  on  thick  gauze 
compresses,  which  were  allowed  to  remain  until  cicatrization.  Eisenberg’s  experiments 
(i ibid .,  p.  372)  proved  that  a 2—5  per  cent,  solution  destroyed  various  morbid  germs  more 
rapidly  and  thoroughly  than  carbolic  acid.  These  results  have  been  confirmed  by  Otis 
and  others  ( Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  June,  1889,  p.  599).  A disadvantage  attend- 
ing its  use  as  a dressing  for  wounds,  especially  in  children  and  in  females  with  a delicate 
skin,  is  its  tendency  to  produce  an  eczematous  eruption,  with  swelling  of  the  lymphatic 
glands  and  fever  (Wackez,  Tlierap.  Monatsliefte , iii.  264).  In  veterinary  medicine  it  has 
been  used  in  5 per  cent,  alcoholized  solutions,  in  baths  and  lotions,  to  cure  the  itch  of 
hogs  and  sheep,  and  also  to  destroy  vegetable  parasites. 

Among  the  various  applications  of  creolin  the  following  may  be  mentioned : One  of 
its  earliest  uses  was  in  the  treatment  of  vesical  catarrh  by  the  injection  of  a \ per  cent, 
solution.  It  caused  a transient  burning  sensation,  but  speedily  destroyed  the  fetor  of 
the  secretion  and  removed  its  turbidness  ( Lancet , Jan.  14,  1888).  In  cases  of  putrefac- 
tion within  the  uterus  from  retained  placenta,  membranes,  foetus,  etc. — cases  in  which 
tympanites  existed  and  blood-infection  was  imminent — the  danger  was  prevented  by  irri- 
gating the  uterus  with  solutions  containing  1 to  2 per  cent,  of  creolin.  A stronger  solu- 
tion (according  to  Baumm)  is  apt  to  painfully  irritate  the  vagina  and  render  its  walls 
rigid.  In  chronic  metritis  and  vaginitis  a 4 per  cent,  solution  has  been  used  or  a weaker 
one  applied  by  means  of  a double  canula.  Minapoulos  used  a i to  2 per  cent,  solution 
to  irrigate  the  vagina  during  and  after  labor  ( Med . Neivs , liii.  718).  Others  have  consid- 
ered such  injections  objectionable.  Rosni  reported  a case  of  death  (referred  to  above) 
with  symptoms  of  carbolic-acid  poisoning  in  a woman  who  had  used  a 2 per  cent,  emul- 
sion of  creolin  as  a uterine  douche  ( Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  Jan.  1889,  p.  8),  and 
Hiller  thought  the  apparent  harmlessness  of  the  preparation  was  due  to  its  slight  solu- 
bility in  water. 

One  per  cent,  solutions  of  creolin  are  alleged  by  Amon  to  be  useful  in  various  forms  of 
ophthalmia ; but  Kazaouroff  and  others  found  that  sometimes  they  either  quite  failed  or 
else  acted  as  irritants  (Bull,  de  Therap .,  cxv.  375).  Mergel  declared  it  to  be  most  effi- 
cient in  acute  conjunctivitis , but  also  to  act  well  in  trachoma.  In  ulcerated  cornea  its 
effects  seemed  uncertain  (Med.  News , liii.  590).  One  reporter  (University  Med.  Mag.,  i. 
117)  stated  that  the  results  he  obtained  with  it  were  inferior  to  those  furnished  by  ordi- 
nary methods ; Grossmann,  Purtscher,  and  others  were  about  equally  divided  in  opinion  ; 
and  some  regarded  the  application  as  so  painful  that  they  suggested  its  being  made  only 
along  with  or  after  the  use  of  cocaine.  A solution  of  from  2 to  10  drops  in  a pint  of 
water  has  been  injected  into  the  middle  ear  through  the  Eustachian  tube,  but  is  not  to  be 
recommended.  Injections  into  the  auditory  canal,  it  has  been  claimed,  are  well  borne, 
and  are  useful  in  various  forms  of  otorrhcea,  but  in  the  Halle  clinic  only  unfavorable 
results  were  observed  (Amer.  Jour.  Med.  Sci.,  1889,  i.  527).  The  chronic  and  fetid  sort 
are  benefited  by  solutions  of  1 : 100-1  : 1000.  In  follicular  tonsillitis  with  fetid  breath,  in 
ulcerated  pharynx,  in  diphtheria,  etc.  gargles  and  injections  (1  : 100-500)  containing  creolin 
are  of  service.  Koehler  states  that  for  diphtheria  he  used  2-3  per  cent,  solutions  with 
advantage  (Med.  Record,  xxxv.  65),  and  these  or  even  weaker  preparations  are  preferable 
for  various  fetid  affections  of  the  nostrils  and  throat.  The  solution  may  be  applied  by 
swabbing,  irrigation,  spray,  or  vapor.  The  inhalation  of  a 1 per  cent,  atomized  solution 
is  recommended  by  Amon  in  phthisis.  Like  a great  many  other  substances  similarly 
administered,  it  palliates  cough  and  may  heal  existing  ulcers.  It  has  been  injected  into 
the  pleural  cavity  after  the  operation  for  empyema.  Hiller  states  that  he  cured  a case  of 
taenia  solium  and  one  of  oxyuris  vermicularis  by  doses  of  Gm.  1 (xv.  grs.)  three  times  a 
day,  enclosed  in  capsules  ; and  others  have  recommended  it  for  flatulence  (gastric  or  intes- 
tinal). Enemas  containing  it  have  been  found  useful  in  dysentery.  Neudorfer  applied 
pure  creolin  to  erysipelas  of  the  face,  arresting  its  development  and  causing  the  general 
symptoms  to  subside  (Brit.  Med.  Jour.,  xxi.  88).  A 2 per  cent,  ointment  of  creolin  has 
been  applied  to  local  eruptions  of  eczema  and  impetigo  ; and  an  alcoholic  solution  or  a 
vaseline  ointment  containing  it  (1  : 10-20)  has  been  used  successfully  in  parasitic  diseases 
of  the  skin. 

Creolin  is  but  little  used  internally,  but,  as  above  stated,  its  dose  need  not  be  very 
small.  It  may  be  given  in  pill  or  capsule  in  the  primary  dose  of  2 or  3 drops.  Its  smell 
is  not  offensive  to  all  persons,  but  may  be  masked  by  other  odorous  substances,  among 
which  peppermint  has  been  recommended.  For  topical  uses,  as  for  injections  into  mucous 
cavities  and  wounds,  a watery  solution  of  2-2  per  cent,  may  be  employed ; for  disinfect- 


552 


CRETA  PRJEPARATA. 


ing  the  hands  and  wounds  a solution  of  3-5  per  cent.  An  ointment  containing  2 per 
cent,  of  the  preparation  has  been  used.  Creolin  gauze,  cotton,  vaseline,  etc.  are  usually 
prepared  with  a solution  of  1 : 200.  As  already  stated,  the  opacity  of  the  liquid  is  a 
hindrance  to  its  use,  especially  in  surgical  operations.  If  the  instruments  are  immersed 
in  it,  it  covers  them  with  a soapy  film,  which  lessens  the  firmness  of  the  grasp  upon 
them. 

CRETA  PR^EPARATA,  TI.  S.,  Prepared  Chalk. 

Creta  laevigata. — Craie  preparee , Crate  lavee , Fr. ; Praparirte  Kreide , Schlammkreide , 
G. ; Creta  preparada , Sp. 

Formula  CaC03.  Molecular  weight  99.76. 

Native  friable  calcium  carbonate  freed  from  most  impurities  by  elutriation. 

Origin. — Neither  the  U.  S.  nor  the  Br.  Pharmacopoeia  now  gives  a process  for  the 
preparation  of  prepared  chalk,  but  the  last-named  authority  adds  to  the  above  definition 
that  it  is  “ afterward  dried  in  small  masses,  which  are  usually  of  a conical  form,”  and, 
mainly  for  the  purpose  of  producing  carbon  dioxide  gas,  recognizes 

Creta,  Br. ; Chalk,  E. ; Craie,  Fr. ; Kreide,  G. 

Chalk  is  a mineral  found  in  many  parts  of  the  world  and  very  abundantly  on  the  coasts 
of  the  English  Channel.  It  consists  mainly  of  the  microscopic  shells  of  Foraminifera, 
and,  chemically,  is  calcium  carbonate,  generally  containing  a little  silica,  aluminum,  iron, 
magnesium,  and  organic  matter.  It  is  usually  soft  and  earthy,  but  occasionally  compact 
and  rather  hard,  often  of  a yellowish-white,  or  even  red,  color,  due  to  ferric  oxide  ; as  met 
with  in  commerce  it  is  nearly  white.  Its  specific  gravity  is  about  2.5.  It  is  much  used 
for  making  marks  which  are  readily  effaced.  Freed  from  the  hard,  silicious  portions  by 
pulverization  and  diffusion  in  water,  it  constitutes  whiting , and  if  prepared  from  very 
white  and  soft  chalk  it  is  known  as  Spanish  or  Paris  white  (Blanc  d’Espagne,  Blanc  de 
Troyes,  Fr.').  The  latter,  mixed  with  coloring  matters  and  moulded  into  pencils,  forms 
the  main  ingredient  in  pastil  colors.  Being  very  rapidly  and  almost  completely  dis- 
solved by  hydrochloric  acid,  chalk  is  not  adapted  for  generating  a continuous  stream  of 
carbon  dioxide.  To  be  suitable  for  medicinal  purposes  it  requires  to  be  purified  or 
prepared. 

Preparation. — “ Take  of  chalk  a convenient  quantity.  Add  a little  water  to  the  chalk 
and  rub  it  into  fine  powder.  Throw  this  into  a large  vessel  nearly  full  of  water,  stir  briskly, 
and  after  a short  interval  decant  into  another  vessel  the  supernatant  liquid  while  yet  turbid. 
Treat  the  coarser  particles  of  chalk  remaining  in  the  first  vessel  in  a similar  manner,  and 
add  the  turbid  liquid  to  that  previously  decanted.  Lastly,  let  the  powder  subside,  and, 
having  poured  off'  the  water,  dry  it.” — U.  S.  1870. 

The  directions  given  here  explain  the  process  of  elutriation,  which  consists  in  separating 
the  finer  and  lighter  from  the  coarser  and  heavier  particles  by  suspending  them  in  water, 
and,  after  the  latter  have  subsided,  pouring  off  the  water,  holding  the  former  still  in  sus- 
pension, which  are  then  allowed  to  subside.  The  powder,  while  still  moist,  is  then  often 
dried  in  the  form  of  small  nodules,  which  are  usually  made  by  putting  the  sediment,  still 
moist,  into  a funnel-shaped  vessel  and  depositing  it  in  small  quantities  upon  the  surface 
prepared  for  it,  either  by  striking  the  lower  end  of  the  funnel  against  it  or  by  pushing 
the  soft  mass  through  the  funnel-tube  by  the  aid  of  a suitable  rod.  The  surface  used 
for  drying  is  either  glass  or  a smooth  calcareous  stone,  the  latter  serving  for  the  rapid 
absorption  of  the  moisture ; the  dry  powder  adheres  loosely  in  the  form  of  small  cones. 
The  heavy  portion,  which  subsided  first,  is  again  triturated,  levigated  with  some  water, 
and  again  subjected  to  elutriation. 

Bismuth  subcarbonate  and  subnitrate  and  other  pulverulent  mineral  salts  are  some- 
times dried  in  the  same  manner. 

Properties  and  Tests. — Prepared  chalk  is  in  conical  nodules,  forming  a white, 
amorphous,  insipid  powder,  and,  being  nearly  pure  calcium  carbonate,  has  all  the  physical 
properties  of  that  compound  (see  page  370),  except  that  the  color  is  usually  of  a less 
bright  tint,  and  that,  viewed  under  the  microscope,  the  particles  do  not  present  a crystal- 
line appearance.  The  chemical  behavior  is  likewise  the  same,  except  that  on  dissolving 
prepared  chalk  in  diluted  hydrochloric,  nitric,  or  acetic  acid  a trifling  insoluble  residue  is 
usually  left,  and  that  the  rapid  and  copious  effervescence  of  carbon  dioxide  gas  produces 
a more  permanent  foam.  “ When  heated  to  redness,  prepared  chalk  loses  carbon  dioxide 
and  is  converted  into  lime.  The  solution  in  diluted  acetic  acid  yields,  with  ammonium 
oxalate  test-solution,  a white  precipitate  insoluble  in  acetic,  but  soluble  in  hydrochloric, 


CHET  A PRjEPARATA. 


553 

acid.  If  from  the  solution  in  diluted  acetic  acid  the  calcium  be  completely  removed  by 
precipitation  with  ammonium  oxalate  test-solution  in  slight  excess,  the  filtrate  should  not 
be  rendered  very  turbid  on  addition  of  sodium  phosphate  test-solution  and  a little 
ammonia-water  (limit  of  magnesium).  Another  portion  of  the  solution  in  acetic  acid 
should  not  assume  more  than  a slight  bluish  tint  upon  addition  of  potassium  ferrocyanide 
test-solution  (limit  of  iron):  Another  portion  of  the  same  solution  should  not  be  ren- 

dered turbid  by  the  addition  of  barium  chloride  test-solution  (absence  of  sulphate).  In 
another  portion  no  precipitate  should  occur  upon  the  addition  of  potassium  dichromate 
test-solution  (absence  of  barium).” — U.  S. 

Substitution, — Powdered  gypsum , calcium  sulphate,  has  been  during  the  past  thirty 
years  repeatedly  sold  in  place  of  prepared  chalk.  It  is  of  a whiter  color,  does  not  effer- 
vesce with  acids,  and  yields  with  a large  quantity  of  distilled  water  a neutral  solution 
giving  white  precipitates  with  barium  chloride  and  ammonium  oxalate,  the  latter  being 
soluble  in  diluted  hydrochloric  acid. 

Allied  Drugs. — 1.  Corallium. — Coral,  E .,  Sp. ; Corail,  Fr. ; Koralle,  G. — Oculina  virginea, 
Lamarck , and  Corallium  rubrum,  Lamarck  (s.  Isis  nobilis,  Pallas).  Class,  Polypiphera. — Corals 
are  polypipherous  animals  inhabiting  the  sea,  and  consisting  of  a skeleton  and  a fleshy  portion. 
Those  which  were  formerly,  and  are  still  occasionally,  employed  in  medicine  have  a calcareous 
skeleton  which  branches  considerably,  assuming  the  form  of  a tree  or  shrub,  on  the  branches  of 
which  the  individual  animals  are  located  in  tube-like  apertures.  Of  the  numerous  species  which 
have  been  distinguished,  the  skeletons  of  only  two  have  been  used.  The  first  one  mentioned 
above  has  a milk-white  color,  the  second  is  of  a dull-red.  Besides  a small  quantity  of  organic 
matter,  coral  consists  almost  exclusively  of  calcium  carbonate,  with  a little  magnesium  carbonate. 
The  color  of  red  coral  is  due  to  about  4.25  per  cent,  of  ferric  oxide. 

2.  Lapides  (s.  Oculi,  s.  Calculi,  s.  Lapilli)  cancrorum. — Crabs’  eyes,  Crabs’  stones,  E. ; 
Yeux  (Pierres)  d’ecrevisses,  Fr. ; Krebsaugen,  Krebssteine,  G. ; Ojos  de  cangrejos,  Sp . — They 
are  concretions  contained  in  the  stomach  of  the  crawjish , Astacus  fluviatilis,  Fabricius , class 
Crustacea,  and  are  obtained  in  Russia  by  allowing  the  animals  to  putrefy  and  washing  the  mass 
with  water.  They  are  circular,  3 to  9 Mm.  (£  to  f inch)  in  diameter,  plano-convex,  with  a con- 
centric groove  on  the  flat  side,  consist  of  several  layers,  acquire  in  boiling  water  a rose-red  color, 
and  dissolve  partly  with  effervescence  in  hydrochloric  acid,  leaving  a cartilaginous  mass  of  the 
shape  of  the  crabs’  stones.  They  contain  about  63  per  cent,  of  calcium  carbonate  and  17  per 
cent,  of  calcium  phosphate,  the  remainder  being  various  animal  matters  with  small  quantities  of 
other  salts.  Factitious  crabs’  stones,  wdrich  are  sometimes  met  with,  are  completely  dissolved  or 
disintegrated  by  hydrochloric  acid. 

3.  Os  sepi^e. — Cuttlefish-bone,  E. ; Os  de  seche,  Fr. ; Sepie,  Weisses  Fischbein,  G. ; Hulsas 
de  Xibia,  Sp. — It  comes  chiefly  from  the  Mediterranean,  from  Sepia  officinalis,  Limit,  class 
Cephalopoda,  and  is  the  calcareous  bone  contained  in  the  mantle  of  the  animal.  It  is  oval- 
oblong  in  shape,  both  sides  slightly  convex,  the  rear  surface  being  smooth,  hard,  and  glossy,  the 
remainder  porous  in  texture  and  friable.  It  is  of  a white  color,  and  consists  of  SO  to  85  per 
cent,  of  calcium  carbonate,  with  traces  of  phosphates,  12  to  16  per  cent,  of  animal  matter,  and 
about  4 per  cent,  of  moisture. 

4.  Testa  pr^eparata,  U.  S.  1870;  Conch/e  pr^eparat^e,  P.  G.  1872. — Prepared  oyster- 
shell,  E. ; Magistere  de  coquilles  (d’ecailles)  d’hftitres,  Fr. ; Praparirte  Austerschalen,  G. — From 
the  shell  of  Ostrea  edulis,  Limit.  Class  Acephala  (Conchifera),  ord.  Lamellibranchia,  Fam. 
Ostracea. — The  oyster  inhabits  the  Atlantic  and  Indian  Oceans  and  adjacent  seas  in  the  neigh- 
borhood of  the  coasts,  and  is  abundant  in  the  bays  and  on  the  coast  of  North  America.  It  con- 
sists of  a soft,  fleshy,  suborbicular  body,  which  is  enclosed  in  a calcareous  shell  opening  by  two 
valves,  the  deeper  one  being  adherent  to  the  rock.  Oysters  are  caught  by  dredging,  and  are 
often  planted  in  creeks  and  rivers  near  the  sea-shore.  The  flesh  is  a nutritious  article  of  food, 
but  the  officinal  parts  of  oysters  are  the  shells.  Oyster-shells  are  of  an  irregular  shape,  and  vary 
between  roundish,  obovate,  and  oblong  in  outline.  The  lower  valve  is  deeper  than  the  upper 
one,  which  is  nearly  flat,  the  two  being  united  by  a toothless  hinge.  The  shells  are  composed  of 
imbricate  foliaceous  layers,  are  externally  rough,  uneven,  and  of  a gray  or  brownish  color,  and 
have  their  internal  surface  smooth  and  white.  The  principal  constituent  of  oyster-shells  is  cal- 
cium carbonate,  which,  according  to  Schlossberger,  varies  in  the  different  layers  between  88  and 
98  per  cent.,  the  pearly  inner  layer  containing  the  largest  quantity.  The  analyses  of  Bucholz 
and  Brandes,  Phipson  (1860),  How  (1866),  and  others  indicate  that  the  organic  matter  present 
in  oyster-shells  may  vary  between  0.5  and  4.5  per  cent.  The  remaining  inorganic  constituents 
are  small  amounts  of  calcium  phosphate  and  sulphate,  magnesium,  silica,  oxide  of  iron,  and 
alumina. 

For  medicinal  use  oyster-shell  is  freed  from  extraneous  matter  by  washing  it  with  boil- 
ing water,  removing  the  colored  external  layer  with  a knife,  and  rubbing  the  clean  white 
inner  layer  into  a powder,  either  in  a mortar  or  upon  a slab  by  means  of  a muller ; the 
finest  powder  is  then  separated  from  the  coarser  particles  by  elutriation,  and  dried  like 
prepared  chalk.  It  has  a close  resemblance  to  the  latter,  but  is  rather  rough  as  compared 


554 


CROCUS. 


with  it  when  taken  between  the  teeth,  and  under  the  microscope  is  seen  to  consist  of  min- 
ute irregular  and  angular  but  not  crystalline  fragments. 

Coral,  crabs’  eyes,  crabs’  claws,  etc.  consist  essentially  of  chalk  or  carbonate  of  lime, 
hut  their  action  is  modified,  and  perhaps  rendered  somewhat  gentler,  by  the  animal  mat- 
ter which  they  contain.  Powdered  cuttlefish-bone  is  used  as  an  ingredient  of  dentifrices 
on  account  of  its  hardness. 

Action  and  Uses. — All  of  these  medicines  are  antacid  and  absorbent,  and  thereby 
astringent.  Externally,  they  are  applied  as  dusting  powders  to  absorb  and  neutralize  the 
cutaneous  secretions  and  those  of  superficial  ulcers , and  to  protect  erythematous  inflam- 
mations., including  burns,  scalds,  abrasions,  etc.  An  ointment  made  with  chalk  is 
sometimes  used,  but  the  combination  in  some  degree  defeats  the  purpose  of  the  chalk. 
Sir  D.  Duckworth  advises  for  erysipelas  an  ointment  made  by  mixing  equal  weights  of 
melted  lard  and  precipitated  chalk  ( Practitioner , xxxviii.  1).  Internally,  prepared  chalk 
is  in  common  use,  and  is  a most  valuable  remedy  for  the  cure  or  palliation  of  almost 
every  form  of  diarrhoea,  but  especially  of  those  forms  in  which  the  intestinal  discharges 
are  acid.  As  a rule,  its  use  in  these  cases  should  be  preceded  by  an  evacuant  to  remove 
undigested  food  or  other  irritating  substances.  There  is  no  better  remedy  for  the  pre- 
monitary  diarrhoea  of  cholera  than  this  simple  preparation.  It  is  usual  to  associate  chalk 
with  opiates  and  astringents ; thus,  to  chalk  mixture  ( Mistura  cretse)  are  added  the  tinc- 
tures of  opium,  kino,  catechu,  ete.  Richter,  in  noticing  the  general  substitution  of  min- 
eral for  animal  preparations  of  lime,  expresses  a doubt  of  its  expediency.  Prepared 
chalk,  he  remarks,  is  by  no  means  a substitute  for  cretaceous  preparations  derived  from 
the  animal  kingdom,  which  contain  phosphate  as  well  as  carbonate  of  lime,  are  more 
acceptable  to  the  stomach  in  moderate  doses,  constipate  less,  and  are  more  readily  absorbed 
into  the  system.  This  writer  ascribes  a diaphoretic  virtue  to  crabs’  eyes,  and  alleges  that 
they  may  produce  urticaria,  and  that  they  tend  to  excite  haemorrhage.  The  latter  qual- 
ities may  perhaps  be  hypothetical,  but  the  belief  that  the  animal  carbonates  in  general 
derange  the  stomach  less  than  other  cretaceous  medicines,  and  are  on  that  account  prefer- 
able for  infants  and  delicate  persons  generally,  cannot,  it  is  believed,  be  successfully 
controverted. 

The  dose  of  prepared  chalk  or  of  prepared  oyster-shell  is  Gm.  0.30-4.00  (gr.  v-lx), 
according  as  its  antacid  or  its  astringent  operation  is  chiefly  sought. 

CROCUS,  77.  S.,  Br .,  jP.  G.— Saffron. 

Stigmata  croci. — Safran , Fr.,  G. ; Azof  ran,  Sp. 

The  stigmas  (and  top  of  the  style,  Bri)  of  Crocus  sativus,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen, 
Med.  Plants,  274. 

Nat.  Ord. — Iridese. 

Origin. — The  saffron-plant  is  indigenous  to  Oriental  countries,  probably  from  Greece 
and  Asia  Minor  eastward  to  Persia ; it  has  been  cultivated  from  an  early  period,  and 
grows  spontaneously  in  some  parts  of  Southern  Europe.  At  the  present  time  commerce 
is  supplied  with  saffron  chiefly  from  Spain  (Alicante  and  Valencia)  and  France  (Gatinais). 
It  is  also  grown  in  Austria,  and  to  a limited  extent  in  some  of  the  south-eastern  counties 
of  Pennsylvania.  Asia  Minor,  Persia,  Cashmere,  and  China  are  the  principal  countries 
which  supply  the  Oriental  regions  with  it.  The  plant  has  a depressed  tuberous  bulb  or 
corm,  which,  in  the  latter  part  of  summer  or  early  in  autumn,  produces  about  nine  grass- 
like, keeled,  and  dark-green  leaves,  and  afterward  a few  pale-purplish,  red-veined,  six- 
lobed  flowers  with  three  stamens  and  a filiform  style,  which  is  whitish  below,  yellow 
above,  and  divided  into  three  orange-red  stigmas. 

Description. — Each  stigma  is  25  to  31  Mm.  (1  to  11  inches)  long,  flattish-tubular, 
almost  filiform  below,  gradually  enlarged  above,  slit  on  the  inner  side,  and  with  several 
roundish  teeth  on  the  edge.  The  three  stigmas  are  usually  united,  and  occasionally  are 
collected  with  a considerable  portion  of  the  yellow  style.  Dried  saffron  is  flexible  and 
tough,  of  a brownish-red  or  orange-brown  color,  somewhat  unctuous  to  the  touch,  of  a 
peculiar  aromatic  odor  and  a bitter,  aromatic,  and  warm  taste.  After  the  moisture  is 
expelled  it  becomes  friable  and  more  readily  pulverizable.  When  chewed  it  tinges  the 
saliva  deep  orange-yellow. 

Cake-saffron  is  now  not  met  with  in  commerce.  In  its  loose  condition  it  is  sometimes 
called  hay-saffron.  Several  varieties  are  distinguished.  Spanish  saffron  is  usually  col- 
lected with  considerable  portions  of  the  styles,  which  are  easily  distinguished  by  their 
yellow  color.  French  or  Gatinais  saffron  is  mostly  of  a better  quality.  The  handsome 


ctioctis. 


555 


saffron  collected  in  Austria  is  rarely  if  ever  seen  in  our  markets.  The  excellent  saffron 
collected  in  Eastern  Pennsylvania  is  known  there  as  American  saffron — a term  which  in 
other  parts  of  the  United  States  is  used  to  designate  the  florets  of  Carthamus  tinctorius. 
Heinitsh  (1866)  calculated  that  33  to  36  pounds  of  saffron  may  be  raised  to  an  acre,  and  found 
300  stigmas  to  weigh  13  to  14  grains,  which  requires  over  50,000  flowers  to  obtain  a pound. 

Constituents. — Saffron  contains  gum,  albumen,  wax,  fat,  about  1 per  cent,  of  vola- 
tile oil,  and  coloring  matter,  called  polychroit , or  by  some  authors  crocin.  Weiss  (1867) 
prepared  polychroit,  C48H60O18,  by  exhausting  saffron  first  with 
ether,  afterward  with  water.  The  infusion  is  precipitated  by  Fi<3.  85. 

strong  alcohol,  and  the  filtrate  by  ether.  The  precipitate  con- 
tains a little  sugar,  is  very  deliquescent,  and  dries  over  sul- 
phuric acid  to  a hard  ruby-colored  mass,  which  is  inodorous, 
of  a sweetish  taste,  readily  soluble  in  water  and  dilute  alcohol, 
slightly  in  absolute  alcohol,  and  insoluble  in  ether  and  benzene. 

On  being  treated  with  dilute  sulphuric  acid  in  an  atmosphere 
of  hydrogen,  polychroit  is  decomposed  into  a volatile  oil  having 
the  composition  of  carvol,  C10HuO,  sugar,  C6H1206,  and  cro- 
cin ( crocetin  of  some  authors),  C16H1806.  The  latter  is  a red 
powder  insoluble  in  ether,  scarcely  soluble  in  water,  and 
freely  soluble  in  alcohol  and  diluted  alkalies.  Warm  con- 
centrated potassa  evolves  from  it  vapors  of  a pungent  odor ; 
concentrated  sulphuric  acid  produces  a deep-blue  color, 
changing  to  violet  and  brown  ; nitric  acid  colors  it  green, 
then  yellow  and  brown.  The  same  colors  are  produced  by 
sulphuric  and  nitric  acids  with  polychroit.  The  volatile  oil 
obtained  by  the  decomposition  of  polychroit  has  the  odor  and 
general  properties  of  the  volatile  oil  obtained  from  saffron  by 
distillation  with  water.  Quadrat  (1851)  observed  that  poly- 
chroit (his  crocin)  yielded  with  concentrated  solution  of 
alkalies  a neutral  volatile  oil  which  was  lighter  than  water 
and  had  an  odor  distinct  from  saffron.  Lagrange  and  Vogel 
(1811)  obtained  from  saffron  7.5  (Aschoff  (1818)  1.4  and 
Hagan  1.25)  per  cent,  of  volatile  oil ; the  first  result  must  have  been  mostly  the  volatile 
oil  formed  from  the  polychroit.  Saffron  contains  about  12  per  cent,  of  moisture  (14  per 
cent,  limit  of  U.  S.  P.),  and  yields  from  5 to  6 per  cent,  of  ash  (7.5  per  cent.  JJ.  Si). 

Adulterations. — The  occasional  admixture  in  true  saffron  of  considerable  portions 
of  the  yellow'  style  has  been  noticed  above.  The  appearance  of  inferior  saffron  is  some- 
times improved  by  oil  or  by  glycerin  ; it  then  leaves  a greasy  stain  on  being  slightly 
pressed  between  paper.  Partially  exhausted  (mixed  with  good)  saffron  is  recognized  by 
the  lighter  and  more  uniform  color  of  the  stigmas.  The  tubular  florets  of  Carthamus 
are  easily  distinguished  by  their  five-toothed  corolla  and  the  projecting  an fhers  with 
style.  The  styles  of  crocus,  suitably  dyed,  have  appeared  in  commerce  as  feminelle , a 
name  also  given  to  the  dyed  ligulate  florets  of  Calendula  officinalis,  Linne  ; the  latter  are 
strap-shaped,  with  a three-toothed  margin,  and  are  easily  distinguished  from  true  saffron 
after  soaking  in  water,  or  in  dilute  ammonia  should  the  coloring  matter  of  the  dye  be 
insoluble  in  water.  The  cut  petals  of  the  pomegranate,  and  the  stamens  of  crocus  and 
perhaps  other  flowers,  are  by  the  same  means  easily  recognized  from  their  different  shape. 
About  1860,  and  again  since  1870,  Spanish  (Alicante)  saffron  has  often  appeared  adul- 
terated with  chalk,  gypsum,  or  heavy  spar,  the  powders  having  been  rendered  glutinous 
by  some  honey  and  mixed  with  the  saffron  ; they  then  become  yellowish  and  of  the 
appearance  of  pollen.  Powdered  emery  is  said  to  be  used  in  the  same  manner.  The 
amount  of  such  adulteration  is  sometimes  20-  per  cent.,  and  may  be  estimated  by  incin- 
eration. Adrian  (1889)  noticed  saffron  heavily  adulterated  with  soluble  alkali  salts  and 
yielding  26  per  cent,  of  ash  ; and  Holmes  observed  saffron  similarly  weighted,  which 
deflagrated  when  ignited  and  yielded  a readily  fusible  ash.  The  adulteration  is  detected 
without  difficulty  by  throwing  a pinch  upon  water,  when  the  mineral  matter  will  subside, 
and  may  be  identified  by  appropriate  tests.  “ On  agitating  1 part  of  saffron  with  100,000 
parts  of  water  the  liquid  acquires  a distinct  yellow  color.  No  color  is  imparted  to  ben- 
zin  agitated  with  saffron  (absence  of  picric  acid  and  some  other  coal-tar  colors.)” — U S. 
“ If  1 part  of  saffron  be  macerated  in  10  parts  of  water,  a yellow-red  liquid  is  obtained 
free  from  sweet  taste,  and  which,  diluted  with  10,000  parts  of  water,  has  a distinct  yel- 
low color.  Saffron  on  being  dried  at  100°  C.  (212°F.)  should  lose  less  than  14  per  cent. 


Crocus  sativus,  Linne : a,  stigma, 
upper  part,  magnified  four  diam- 
eters ; 6,  style  with  stigmas ; c, 
papillose  margin  of  stigma, 
magnified  120  diameters. 


556 


CUBEBA. 


of  moisture,  and  on  being  now  incinerated  should  leave  not  over  7.5  per  cent,  of  ash.” — 
P.  G.  These  two  tests  will  probably  answer  for  determining  the  genuineness  of  saffron. 
The  first,  based  upon  its  tinctorial  power,  requires  that  22  fluidounces  of  water  be  colored 
yellow  by  1 grain  of  saffron  ; a single  grain  of  saffron  rubbed  to  a fine  powder  with  sugar 
will  impart  a distinct  tint  of  yellow  to  700,000  grains  (10  galls.,  Br.,  or  12  galls.,  U.  S.) 
of  water  {Pharmacogr  aphid). 

An  article  has  sometimes  (1872)  been  offered  as  African  saffron;  it  is  mostly  safflower, 
but  occasionally  it  consisted  of  the  corolla  of  Lyperia  crocea,  Ecklon , a scrophulariaceous 
plant  indigenous  to  Southern  Africa. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparation. — Syrupus  croci,  Syrup  of  saffron. — 25  parts 
of  saffron  are  exhausted  with  sufficient  Malaga  wine  to  obtain  440  parts  of  tincture  in 
which  560  parts  of  sugar  are  dissolved. — F.  Cod. 

Allied  Drugs. — Gardenia  grandiflora,  Loureiro , G.  Florida,  Limit  and  G.  radicans,  Than- 
berg. — Nat.  ord.  Rubiacese. — These  shrubs  are  indigenous  to  Eastern  and  Southern  Asia,  and 
produce  obconical  four-  or  six-sided  somewhat  winged  berries,  which  attain  a length  of  4 Cm. 
(If  inches)  and  contain  numerous  flat  and  finely-pitted  seeds  imbedded  in  a red  pulp.  The  col- 
oring matter  of  the  latter,  according  to  Rochleder  and  L.  Mayer  (1858),  is  identical  with  that  of 
crocus.  The  fruits  are  regarded  as  possessing  demulcent  and  refrigerant  properties,  and  are 
largely  used  in  the  East  for  dyeing  yellow. 

Action  and  Uses. — Saffron  is  generally  regarded  as  a stimulant  aromatic.  Like 
other  powerfully  odorous  vegetable  substances,  its  emanations  occasion  headache,  sleep, 
stupor,  and  even  death.  It  also  displays  anodyne  and  antispasmodic  properties.  Its 
aromatic  quality  is  exhibited  in  its  general  use  as  a condiment  in  tropical  countries, 
where  the  heat  enfeebles  digestion  and  vegetable  food  is  chiefly  used.  Like  other  agents 
of  its  class,  it  sometimes  appears  to  stimulate  the  pelvic  organs,  as  shown  by  its  em- 
ployment from  remote  periods  as  an  emmenagogue  and  also  as  an  aphrodisiac.  During 
its  use  the  urine  is  colored  yellow. 

As  just  indicated,  it  is  most  commonly  employed  to  prevent  or  relieve  flatulent  dys- 
pepsia and  its  accompanying  colic,  for  by  expelling  the  gaseous  contents  of  the  digest- 
ive canal  it  enables  that  organ  to  perform  its  functions  more  perfectly.  It  may  be  pre- 
scribed, like  other  aromatics,  to  allay  the  pain  of  dysmenorrhoea.  Hot  infusions  of  saf- 
fron are  sometimes  given  to  promote  exanthematous  eruptions.  It  has  long  been  reported 
to  be  efficacious  in  spasmodic  coughs  and  asthma,  but  its  value  in  these  affections  is  very 
slight.  Yet  the  preparations  of  saffron  may  be  conveniently  employed  as  vehicles  for 
more  powerful  drugs.  Like  the  flowers  of  other  plants  containing  a volatile  oil,  those 
of  saffron  have  long  entered  into  various  compounds  in  popular  use  to  relieve  rheumatic 
and  neuralgic  pains,  to  remove  the  soreness  and  discoloration  of  bruises,  and  to  promote  the 
healing  of  abrasions  and  superficial  sores.  A collyrium  of  saffron  has  been  employed  in 
subacute  and  chronic  inflammations  of  the  conjunctiva , and  saffron  ointment  has  been 
reputed  to  be  anexcellent  palliative  of  haemorrhoids.  A strong  infusion  of  saffron 
applied  to  the  gums  is  said  to  allay  the  pain  of  dentition. 

Saffron  has  been  omitted  from  most  of  the  officinal  preparations  into  which  it  for- 
merly entered — a change  justifiable,  if  at  all,  upon  economical  rather  than  upon  medical 
grounds. 

The  dose  of  saffron  is  from  Gm.  0.30-2.00  (gr.  v-xxx),  the  former  quantity  sufficing 
as  a gastric,  the  latter  as  a general,  stimulant.  But  the  dose  should  be  repeated  at  short 
intervals.  Only  pure  and  well-preserved, s pecimens  can  be  depended  upon.  An  infu- 
sion may  be  made  with  Gm.  8 (^ij)  of  saffron  to  Gm.  500  (a  pint)  of  boiling  water,  of 
which  Gm.  125  (f^iv)  may  be  given  at  intervals  of  half  an  hour  or  an  hour. 

CUBEBA,  U.  S.,  Pv, — Cubeb. 

Cubebse,  P.  G. ; Fructus  (s.  Baccae ) cuhebae , Piper  caudatum. — Ciibebs,  E.  ; Cubebe , Poivre 
a queue,  Fr.  ; Kubeben,  G. ; Pepe  cubebe,  It.  ; Cubebas,  Sp. 

The  unripe  fruit  of  Cubeba  officinalis,  Miquel , s.  Piper  Cubeba,  Linne  filius.  Steph. 
and  Church,  Med.  Bot .,  plate  175  ; Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  243. 

Nat.  Ord. — Piperaceae. 

Origin. — The  cubeb-plant,  which  is  indigenous  to  Java  and  some  of  the  adjacent 
islands,  is  a climbing  dioecious  shrub  about  6 M.  (20  feet)  high,  with  ovate  or  ovate- 
lanceolate,  leathery,  and  shining  leaves  upon  short  petioles  about  as  long  as  the  pedun- 
cles of  the  spikes.  The  pistillate  spikes  are  about  4 Cm.  (If  inches)  long,  cylindrical, 
with  the  fruit  at  first  sessile,  afterward  stalked.  The  plant  is  cultivated  chiefly  in  coffee 
plantations,  and  the  fruit  collected  before  it  is  ripe. 


CUBEBA. 


557 


Description. — Cubebs  are  of  the  size  and 
general  appearance  of  black  pepper,  about  4 or 
5 Mm.  (-J  or  i inch)  in  diameter,  at  the  base  con- 
tracted into  a kind  of  stalk  8 or  10  Mm.  (A  or  -J 
inch)  long,  very  slightly  pointed  at  the  apex 
from  the  remnants  of  the  -stigmas,  of  a brown- 
gray  to  blackish-gray  color,  and  a reticulately 
wrinkled  surface.  The  integuments  of  the  fruit 
consist  of  a thin,  dried,  fleshy  layer  and  a smooth 
lighter-colored  shell,  surrounding  a globular 
cavity  with  an  undeveloped  whitish  seed  at  the 
base.  The  epicarp  and  endocarp  consist  of 
stone-cells,  those  of  the  former  being  cubical  in 
one  interrupted  row,  those  of  the  latter  radically 
elongated,  and  in  two  or  three  rows.  The 
mesocarp  is  formed  of  thin-walled  parenchyma 
and  larger  oil-cells,  both  containing  crystals  of 
cubebin,  the  former  also  starch-granules  in  the 
outer  layer.  The  fruit  has  a strong  spicy  odor 
and  a pungent  aromatic  and  bitterish  taste,  is 
frequently  mixed  with,  and  should  be  freed 
from,  the  nearly  inodorous  rachis  or  common 
axis,  which  is  from  25  to  40  Mm.  (1  to  If  inches)  long  and  has  a pitted  surface. 

Constituents. — Cubebs  contain  from  5 to  15  per  cent,  of  volatile  oil  (see  Oleum 
Cubeb.e),  fixed  oily,  waxy  matter,  resin,  cubebin,  gum,  malates,  etc.  The  medicinally 
most  important  constituents  are  the  indifferent  resin  and  cubebic  acid ; they  were  isolated 
by  Bernatzik  (1863),  and  further  examined  by  E.  A.  Schmidt  (1870),  1873).  Gubeb  resin 
is  amorphous,  slightly  soluble  in  ether,  carbon  disulphide,  or  chloroform,  but  dissolves 
freely  in  caustic  alkalies  and  alcohol ; it  is  not  precipitated  from  the  spirituous  solution 
by  lead  acetate.  Cubebic  acid , C14H1604,  is  an  amorphous,  yellowish  mass,  soluble  in 
alkali,  ether,  chloroform,  carbon  disulphide,  benzene,  and  petroleum  benzin,  and  is  pre- 
cipitated from  its  alcoholic  solution  by  lead  acetate ; its  sodium  salt  crystallizes  from  hot 
alkaline  liquids  and  from  alcohol.  Both  resinous  compounds  are  colored  red  by  sulphuric 
acid.  The  indifferent  resin  has  been  obtained  in  quantities  of  2.5  to  3.5  per  cent.,  and 
the  cubebic  acid  in  amounts  of  0.96  to  3.4  per  cent. 

Cubebin . C10H10H3,  according  to  Weidel  (1877),  was  first  obtained  pure  by  Soubeiran 
and  Capitaine  (1839),  and  forms  the  principal  portion  of  the  deposit  in  the  ethereal 
extract.  It  crystallizes  in  tasteless  and  inodorous  white  needles  or  pearly  scales,  which 
melt  at  128°  C,  (257°  F.),  are  colored  red  by  sulphuric  acid,  and  dissolve  in  26.6  parts  of 
ether,  readily  in  benzene  and  in  chloroform,  and  in  30  parts  of  cold  and  in  10  parts  of 
boiling  alcohol  ; the  alcoholic  solution  has  a bitter  taste.  By  melted  potassa  cubebin 
yields  carbon  dioxide,  acetic,  and  protocatechuic  acids.  Medicinally,  it  appears  to  be 
inactive  ; its  percentage  varies  between  0.4  and  2.5. 

Potassium  chloride  has  been  found  among  the  saline  constituents  of  cubebs. 
Impurities  and  Substitutions. — The  presence  of  cubeb-stems  (the  rachis)  has 
been  alluded  to  before.  Black  pepper  and  other  piperaceous  fruits  occur  sometimes  as 
accidental,  rarely  if  ever  as  intentional,  impurities.  The  fruit  of  Bhamnus  catharticus 
has  only  a very  superficial  resemblance,  and  is  at  once  distinguished  by  the  true  pedicel 
and  its  four  seeds.  Allspice  is  much  larger,  has  no  pedicel,  contains  two  seeds,  and  is 
crowned  with  the  calyx  limb. 

The  following  two  species  are  mentioned  in  Pharmacoe/raphia  as  yielding  fruits 
extremely  cubeb-like : Cubeba  Lowong,  Miquel  (Piper  Lowong,  Blume ),  and  Cub. 

Wallichii,  Miquel  (Pip.  ribesioides,  Wallich).  The  fruit  of  Cub.  canina,  Miquel  (Pip. 
caninum,  Dietrich ),  is  smaller  than  cubeb,  and  contracted  below  into  a stalk  of  only  half 
*the  length  of  the  globular  portion.  In  1863  a fruit  was  sold  as  cubeb  which  by  Grcene- 
wegen  was  referred  to  Piper  anisatum,  Humboldt  et  Bonpland ; it  is  probably  the  same 
which  Fliickiger  and  Hanbury  refer  to  Cubeba  crassipes,  Miquel  (Pip.  crassipes,  Korthals). 
The  fruit  of  Cub.  Clusii,  Miquel,  of  Western  Africa,  resembles  cubeb,  but,  according  to 
Stenhouse  (1855),  it  contains  piperine  instead  of  cubebin. 

Action  and  Uses. — Cubeb  is  a local  irritant.  Taken  into  the  stomach,  it  stimu- 
lates the  whole  intestinal  tract,  after  the  manner  of  black  pepper,  thereby  exciting  more 
or  less  irritation  of  the  rectum  and  other  pelvic  organs.  At  the  same  time,  its  active 


Fig.  86. 


Cubeba  officinalis,  Miquel. 


558 


CUCUMIS. 


principle  is  absorbed,  causing  flushing  of  the  face  and  diffused  warmth,  and  increasing 
the  urinary  secretion  as  well  as  giving  it  a peculiar  odor.  It  does  not  derange  the  diges- 
tion like  copaiva.  Its  direct  and  indirect  operation  upon  the  genito-urinary  apparatus 
may  be  attended  with  painful  irritation  of  those  parts  if  the  medicine  is  given  when 
they  are  actively  inflamed.  Excessive  doses  may  occasion  vomiting,  gastro-intestinal 
irritation,  and  a general  feverish  condition.  Cubeb  sometimes  produces  an  erythematous 
eruption  on  the  skin  (Amer.  Jour.  Med.  Sci .,  Jan.  1881,  p.  289). 

The  chief  medicinal  application  of  cubeb  is  to  relieve  inflammation  of  the  urinary  pas- 
sages. It  has  long  been  used  for  the  cure  of  gonorrhoea , but  at  present,  like  copaiva,  it  is 
in  a great  degree  superseded  by  the  local  treatment  of  that  affection.  In  efficacy  it  is  infe- 
rior to  copaiva,  but  it  is  more  readily  tolerated  by  the  digestive  organs.  The  cases  of 
gonorrhoea  to  which  it  is  most  appropriate  are  those  in  which  the  attack  is  recent  and 
the  inflammation  moderate,  but  more  inflammatory  conditions,  accompanied  by  chordee, 
scalding  urine,  and  even  swelled  testicle,  do  not  contraindicate  the  medicine,  although 
they  call  for  caution  in  its  use — that  is  to  say,  for  the  administration  of  small,  rather 
than  large,  doses.  The  former  may  be  represented  by  about  Gm.  1 (gr.  xv)  three  times 
a day ; the  latter,  which  usually  should  be  reached  by  gradual  increase,  may  be  stated 
to  be  Gm.  2 (gr.  xxx)  or  more.  Few  persons  can  long  tolerate  so  large  a dose,  which  is 
apt  to  cause  vomiting  and  diarrhoea,  besides  inspiring  invincible  disgust,  It  should  not 
be  continued  longer  than  a week  or  ten  days,  unless  the  gonorrhoeal  discharge  declines, 
in  wdiich  case  the  dose  should  be  gradually  reduced.  It  is  asserted  that  the  efficient 
element  of  cubeb  in  the  cure  of  gonorrhoea  is  cubebic  acid,  which  appears  capable  of 
curing  the  acute  affection  "when  given  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.10-0.15  (gr.  ij-iij)  every  two 
or  three  hours ; but,  on  the  whole,  it  seems  to  be  less  successful  than  cubeb  itself. 

Irritability  of  the  urethra  in  females,  with  accompanying  vesical  tenesmus  and  scalding 
of  the  urine — a condition  often  associated  with  catamenial  congestion — is  apt  to  be  miti- 
gated by  cubeb  in  doses  of  from  20  to  30  grains  two  or  three  times  a day.  Vesical  irri- 
tability and  tenesmus  produced  by  cold  or  by  cantharidal  irritation,  and  nocturnal  inconti- 
nence of  urine , may  often  be  cured  in  the  same  manner.  Chronic  cystitis  and  vaginal 
discharges  are  favorably  influenced  by  cubeb,  and,  like  copaiva,  but  less  surely,  this 
medicine  may  be  used  in  chronic  bronchitis.  Its  local  stimulant  action  seems  to  have 
been  advantageous  in  certain  cases  of  pseudo-membranous  angina , when  cubeb  was  given 
finely  powdered  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  8-12  (gij-iij),  mixed  with  syrup.  It  was  also  adminis- 
tered with  powdered  sugar,  which  itself  was  probably  not  without  influence  on  the 
result.  But,  while  stimulating  the  fauces  and  the  system  generally,  it  also  prevented 
the  meddlesome  medication  which  has  not  a little  to  answer  for  in  this  disease.  A like 
remark  may  be  applied  to  the  use  in  this  disease  of  inhalations  of  watery  vapor 
charged  with  cubeb.  Cubeb  has  been  thought  to  be  efficacious  in  certain  nervous  dis- 
orders, comprising  headache , vertigo,  fainting , impaired  memory , and  even  paralysis; 
doubtless,  such  symptoms,  depending  upon  exhaustion  of  the  nervous  centres,  may  be 
ameliorated  by  whatever  stimulates  them  primarily,  while  it  secondarily  improves  the 
digestion,  and  therefore  the  composition  of  the  blood. 

Cubeb  is  administered  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.60  (gr.  x)  and  upward,  either  mixed  with 
water  or  with  powdered  sugar  or  enclosed  in  wafers.  In  the  last  case  it  should  be  fol- 
lowed by  a mouthful  of  water. 

CUCUMIS.— Cucumber. 

Concombre  Fr.  ; Gurhe „ G. ; Cohombro , Sp. 

The  fruit  and  seed  of  Cucumis  sativus,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Cucurbitaceae. 

Origin. — The  cucumber  is  indigenous  to  Southern  and  Central  Asia,  but  is  now  exten- 
sively cultivated  in  most  civilized  countries.  It  has  a roundish  hispid  stem,  climbing  by 
simple  tendrils,  alternate,  heart-shaped,  and  somewhat  five-lobed  rough  leaves,  and  uni- 
sexual yellow  flowers. 

Description. — The  fruit  is  at  first  rough  and  somewhat  verrucose,  but  becomes 
smooth  on  ripening.  It  is  cylindrical-oblong,  somewhat  triangular,  obtuse  at  both  ends, 
sometimes  curved,  and  varies  considerably  in  size  and  color.  It  has  a slight  but  quite 
characteristic  odor  and  a slightly  saline  and  rather  harsh  taste. 

The  seeds  are  about  £ inch  (8  Mm.)  long,  oblong-ovate,  flat,  rather  acute  on  the  edge, 
and  with  a short  point  above.  They  are  white,  inodorous,  and  of  an  oily  taste.  The 
embryo  is  of  the  shape  of  the  seed,  and  consists  of  two  plano-convex  white  cotyledons, 


CUMINUM. 


559 


with  a short  radicle  in  the  pointed  end.  The  seeds  contain  about  30  per  cent,  of  a bland 
light-yellow  fixed  oil. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Prof.  Procter  (1853)  gave  a formula  for  cucumber  oint- 
ment, which  is  prepared  by  grating  7 pounds  of  green  cucumbers,  expressing  the  juice, 
and  incorporating  it,  about  one-third  at  a time,  with  15  ounces  of  suet  and  24  ounces  of 
lard,  the  fats  having  been  previously  fused  together  and  allowed  to  cool  until  the  mixture 
commences  to  thicken.  x\fter  all  the  juice  has  been  in  contact  with  the  fat,  the  latter  is 
melted,  strained,  and  preserved  in  glass  jars  covered  with  a layer  of  rose-water;  the  jars 
should  be  well  closed.  When  intended  for  use  a portion  of  the  ointment  is  triturated 
with  a little  rose-water  until  it  becomes  white  and  creamy. 

Allied  Plants. — The  following  plants  are  indigenous  to  Southern  Asia,  and  at  present  cultivated 
in  many  warm  countries  : 

Cucumis  Melo,  Linn6. — Muskmelon. — The  seeds  resemble  cucumber-seeds,  but  are  somewhat 
larger  and  rather  more  blunt  on  the  edge;  they  contain  an  inodorous  yellowish  fixed  oil. 

Cucumis  (Cucurbita,  I>mn£)  Citrullus,  Springe,  s.  Citrullus  vulgaris,  Schrader. — Watermelon. 
— The  seeds  are  about  12  Mm.  (J  inch)  long,  blackish  or  brown  and  marbled,  broadly  ovate, 
flat,  blunt  on  the  edge,  near  the  pointed  end  with  two  thin  converging  ridges.  They  yield  by 
pressure  about  30  per  cent,  of  a thin  light  yellow  bland  oil. 

Lagexaria  vulgaris,  Springe,  s.  Cucurbita  Lagenaria,  Linn6. — Gourd. — The  seeds  are  18  Mm. 
(|  inch)  long,  oblong,  obtuse  at  both  ends,  thickened  and  with  two  furrows  near  the  margin, 
the  surface  yellowish-white  and  soft  felt-like. 

Momordica  balsamixa,  Linne. — Balsam-apple. — The  fruit  is  ovate  in  shape,  narrowed  at  both 
ends,  somewhat  angular,  warty,  bright-red  or  orange-colored,  and  separating  laterally.  It  contains 
numerous  flat,  oval,  and  wrinkled  brownish  seeds,  which  are  surrounded  with  a fleshy  red  arillus. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  ointment  prepared  with  cucumber-juice  is  supposed  to  be 
peculiarly  mild,  emollient,  and  healing  when  freshly  made  and  applied  to  abrasions  and 
other  analogous  lesions. 

The  juice  of  the  watermelon  increases  somewhat  the  secretion  of  urine — an  effect 
which  is  perhaps  due  to  the  sugar  it  contains.  An  infusion  of  the  whole  seeds  is  decid- 
edly diuretic,  and  that  of  the  bruised  seeds  is  also  demulcent.  No  better  drink  than  the 
latter  infusion  can  be  used  in  all  cases  of  irritation  of  the  kidneys  or  bladder , and  espe- 
cially in  those  of  retention  of  urine  produced  by  cold.  A syrup  made  with  the  inspis- 
sated juice  is  alleged  by  Popoff  to  be  powerfully  diuretic  ( Med '.  News , xlix.  289). 

The  root  as  well  as  the  fruit  of  balsam-apple  is  an  active  purgative.  Gm.  8 (^ij)  of 
the  latter  given  to  a dog  are  said  to  have  killed  it  within  sixteen  hours.  In  the  Philip- 
pine Islands  a decoction  of  it  is  employed  as  an  emetic.  An  infusion  of  the  seeds  in 
olive  or  almond  oil  has  been  used  as  a vulnerary  and  also  to  relieve  haemoptysis  (Strumpf 
Handbuch,  ii.  214). 

CUMINUM.— Cumin. 

Fructus  cumini  s.  cymini. — Cumin,  Fr. ; Kreutzkiimmel , Mutterkummel,  Romischer  gan- 
ger, scharfer)  Kiimmel,  G. ; Comino,  Sp. 

The  fruit  of  Cuminum  Cyminum,  Linne . 

Nat.  Ord. — Umbelliferae  Orthospermae. 

Origin. — The  cumin-plant  is  indigenous  to  Egypt  and  other  parts  of  Africa,  and  is 
cultivated  in  various  parts  of  Asia  and  Europe,  in  the  latter  continent  chiefly  in  South- 
ern Italy  and  the  neighboring  islands.  It  is  an  annual  about  30  Cm.  (1  foot)  high;  the 
leaves  are  divided  into  narrow  linear  segments  ; the  umbels  are  small,  and  the  umbellets 
have  about  five  white  or  purplish  flowers. 

Description. — The  fruit  is  about  G Mm.  (]  inch)  long,  oblong,  narrowed  at  both 
ends,  slightly  compressed  laterally,  and  of  a yellowish-brown  color.  The  two  mericarps 
are  usually  united ; each  has  five  light-colored  filiform  ribs, 
which  are  beset  with  soft  short  hairs  and  are  separated  by  Fig.  87. 

broad  brown  furrows,  each  containing  a pale-brown  rather 
broad,  rough,  hairy,  secondary  rib  and  covering  one  oil-tube. 

Two  oil-tubes  (vittse)  are  contained  on  the  face  or  six  in  each 
mericarp.  The  strong  aromatic  odor  and  taste  somewhat  resem- 
ble those  of  caraway.  Cumin  is  very  prone  to  the  attacks  of 
insects,  which  eat  the  entire  seed,  leaving  only  the  fruit-shell. 

Constituents. — Examined  by  Bley  (1829),  cumin  was 
found  to  contain  7.7  per  cent,  of  fat,  13.5  of  resin,  15.5  of 
protein  compounds,  8 of  gum,  and  Only  0.24  of  volatile  oil.  Cumin : fruit  and  longitudinal 

-it-  c . 7 , , J . , . . „ ’ section,  3 diameters;  trans- 

tne  remainder  being  extractive,  salts  (mainly  malates),  cellu-  verse  section,  8 diameters*. 


560 


CUPRl  ACETAS. 


lose,  and  9 per  cent,  of  moisture.  Raybaud  obtained  nearly  3 per  cent,  of  volatile  oil. 
The  latter  consists  of  several  hydrocarbons — one  having  the  composition  C10H16,  another 
being  cymol  or  cymene,  C10H14,  which  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  has  the  specific  gravity  0.860, 
boils  at  175°  C.  (347°  F.),  and  has  a lemon-like  odor  (Gerhardt  and  Cahours) — and  of  an 
oxygenated  body,  cuminol  or  cumin-aldeliyde , C10H12O,  which  has  the  density  0.972,  boils 
at  about  230°  C.  (446°  F.),  has  a caraway-like  odor,  and  yields  with  nitric  acid  crystal- 
lizable  cuminic  acid , Ci0H,2O2.  Volatile  oils  identical  with  oil  of  cumin  have  been  obtained 
by  Trapp  (1858)  from  the  fruit  of  Cicuta  virosa,  Linne , and  by  Haines  (1856)  from  the 
fruit  of  Ptychotis  (Carum,  Bentley)  Ajowan,  De  Candolle ; the  latter,  however,  was 
shown  by  Stenhouse  to  contain  thymol. 

The  ajowan  (Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  120)  is  largely  cultivated  in  Oriental 
countries  ; the  fruit  is  about  1.5  Mm.  (Jg-  inch)  long,  ovate,  laterally  flattened,  rough, 
gray-brown,  has  broad  ribs,  and  in  each  mericarp  six  oil-tubes. 

Action  and  Uses. — Cumin  is  mildly  stimulant  and  carminative  in  the  same  manner 
as  anise  and  caraway,  and  may  be  used  for  the  same  purposes.  It  has  been  regarded  as 
a galactagogue,  but  Dolan  failed  to  detect  any  such  action  in  it  ( Practitioner , xxvii.  164). 
It  is,  however,  very  seldom  employed.  The  dose  may  bs  stated  at  from  Gm.  1-2 
(gr.  xv-xxx).  Ajava,  or  ajowan,  seeds  are  stated  by  Waring  to  combine  stimulant, 
antispasmodic,  and  tonic  qualities,  and  to  mitigate  the  desire  for  alcoholic  drinks 

CUPRl  ACETAS.— Copper  Acetate. 

Cuprum  aceticum , acetas  cupricus , jErxuja  crystallisata  s.  destillata,  Flora  virides  aeris. 
— Copper  verditer , Crystallized  verdigris,  E.  ; Acetate  de  cuivre , Verdet  crystallise,  Crystaux 
de  Venus , Fr.  ; Kupferacetat,  Gereinigter  ( krystallisirter , destillirter)  Gr  unspan,  G. 

Formula  Cu(C2H302)2.H20.  Molecular  weight  198.86. 

Origin. — Verdigris  was  already  known  to  Theophrastus  about  300  b.  c.,  when  it  was 
prepared  from  copper  and  various  refuse  products  obtained  in  making  wine.  Crystal- 
lized copper  acetate  was  probably  first  prepared  by  the  Arabian  chemists  in  the  eighth 
century  by  dissolving  verdigris  in  vinegar.  At  present  it  is  manufactured  in  the  same 
manner,  or  from  copper  sulphate  and  lead  or  calcium  acetate. 

Preparation. — Verdigris  is  dissolved  in  about  4 parts  of  warm  wood  vinegar;  the 
clear  decanted  liquid  is  concentrated  by  evaporation  in  copper  vessels  and  allowed  to  crys- 
tallize in  wooden  tanks ; or,  solutions  of  2 parts  of  copper  sulphate  and  3 parts  of  lead 
acetate  are  mixed,  the  liquid  decanted  from  the  insoluble  lead  sulphate,  acidulated  with 
a little  acetic  acid,  and  evaporated  to  crystallize. 

Properties. — This  salt  is  met  with  in  deep  blue-green  rhombic  prisms,  which  are 
nearly  opaque  or  somewhat  translucent,  glossy,  superficially  efflorescent  on  exposure  to 
the  atmosphere,  and  have  the  spec.  grav.  1.914,  an  acetous  odor, 
and  a disagreeable  metallic  taste.  The  effloresced  surface  is  dull 
and  of  a light  bluish-green  color,  the  powdered  crystals  of  a bright 
blue-green-,  resembling  verdigris.  When  kept  over  sulphuric  acid 
the  crystals  turn  white  from  the  loss  of  water,  but  become  blue- 
green  again  in  the  air.  On  the  application  of  heat  water  is  given 
off,  and  at  110°  C.  (230°  F.)  also  traces  of  acetic  acid,  the  loss  in 
weight  up  to  140°  C.  (284°  F.)  amounting  to  about  10  per  cent. ; 
the  water  of  crystallization  is  9.04  per  cent.  The  residue  left  is  of 
a blue-green  color,  soluble  in  water,  and  on  being  heated  to  between 
240°  and  260°  C.  (464°  and  500°  F.)  yields  about  36  per  cent,  of 
glacial  acetic  acid,  and  above  270°  C.  (518°  F.)  acetone,  carbon 
dioxide,  and  other  products  of  decomposition,  while  chiefly  metal- 
lic copper  is  left  behind.  Th£  salt  dissolves  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  in 
15  parts  of  water  and  in  135  parts  of  alcohol,  and  at  the  boiling 
temperature  in  5 parts  of  water  and  in  14  parts  of  alcohol.  The 
aqueous  solution  is  blue-green,  gives  off  acetic  acid  on  boiling, 
depositing  at  the  same  time  a basic  salt,  and  changes  to  a deep- 
blue  color  with  excess  of  ammonia  or  ammonium  carbonate.  Sulphuric  and  other  strong 
acids  decompose  the  salt,  liberating  acetic  acid. 

Tests. — The  salt  should  be  completely  soluble  in  excess  of  solution  of  ammonium 
carbonate  (absence  of  lead,  calcium,  etc.).  If  dissolved  in  diluted  nitric  acid,  no  precip- 
itate should  be  produced  with  silver  nitrate  or  barium  nitrate  (absence  of  chloride  and 
sulphate).  If  the  aqueous  solution  of  the  salt  be  treated  with  hydrogen  sulphide  until 


Fig.  88. 


Crystal  of  Copper 
Acetate. 


CUPRI  SULPHAS. 


561 


all  the  copper  is  precipitated,  the  filtrate  should  leave  no  residue  on  evaporation  (alka- 
lies, alkaline  earths,  and  iron).  If  the  aqueous  solution  be  heated  to  boiling  with  solu- 
tion of  soda  in  excess,  it  yields  a filtrate  which  should  not  be  clouded  by  hydrogen  sul- 
phide (absence  of  lead,  zinc). 

Pharmaceutical  Preparation. — Tinctura  cupri  acetici  rademacheri.  Dis- 
solve 1 part  of  copper  acetate  in  10  parts  of  warm  water,  and  add  8 parts  of  alcohol. 

Allied  Salt. — Cupri  subacetas,  U.  S.  (1870) ; iErugo,  Viride  aeris,  Subacetas  cupricus. — 
Verdigris,  Copper  subacetate,  E. ; Acetate  basique  de  cuivre,  Vert-de-gris,  Verdet  gris,  Fr. ; 
Griinspann,  Spagriin,  Basischessigsaures  Kupfer  (lvupferoxyd),  G. — Formula  of  pure  verdigris 
Cu20(C2H302)2.  Molecular  weight  260.04. — In  the  wine  districts  of  Southern  Europe,  and  partic- 
ularly in  the  neighborhood  of  Montpellier,  verdigris  is  prepared  by  the  aid  of  the  marc  of  the 
wine-press.  These  grape-husks  are  allowed  to  undergo  the  acetic  fermentation,  and  are  then 
stratified  in  earthen  vessels  with  sheets  of  copper,  which,  if  new,  have  been  previously  super- 
ficially corroded  by  a solution  of  copper  acetate.  After  having  been  thus  kept  at  a temperature  of 
8°  or  10°  C.  (46°  or  50°  F.)  for  three  or  four  weeks,  the  plates  are  removed,  placed  upright  to  dry, 
and  for  the  following  six  or  eight  weeks  are  occasionally  dipped  into  water  and  exposed,  until 
the  neutral  acetate  at  first  formed  has  been  converted  into  a thick  layer  of  verdigris,  which  is 
scraped  off.  The  sheets  are  then  replaced  in  the  grape-husks,  and  the  process  repeated  until  the 
copper  has  been  completely  corroded.  The  scrapings  are  formed  with  water  into  cakes  of  con- 
venient size  and  dried.  Verdigris  of  inferior  quality  is  said  to  be  made  in  the  cider  districts  of 
England  in  a similar  manner  from  pommage  or  apple-marc,  and  in  some  places  it  is  obtained  by 
exposing  the  copper  to  the  vapors  of  vinegar  or  pyroligneous  acid  or  by  treating  impure  cupric 
oxide  with  the  latter.  The  annual  importation  of  verdigris  into  the  United  States  during  seven 
years  averages  about  203,902  pounds  ; in  1880  it  reached  305,792  pounds.  Verdigris  is  met  with 
in  commerce  in  heavy  and  hard  bluish-green  masses  containing  a considerable  number  of  small 
crystals  and  breaking  with  an  earthy  somewhat  crystalline  fracture.  It  varies  in  composition, 
but  always  consists  mainly  of  hydrated  oxyacetate  of  copper,  and  contains  between  45  and  50 
per  cent,  of  cupric  oxide.  It  is  decomposed  by,  and  but  partially  soluble  in,  water,  insoluble  in 
alcohol,  but  completely  soluble,  the  impurities  excepted,  in  ammonia  and  dilute  sulphuric,  acetic, 
and  hydrochloric  acids.  Acids  should  produce  but  little  effervescence,  showing  the  absence  of 
carbonate.  The  presence  of  chalk  as  an  impurity  is  determined  by  the  copious  effervescence 
when  dissolving  a sample  in  warm  acetic  acid,  and  by  the  precipitate  occurring  in  the  solution 
on  the  addition  of  ammonium  oxalate. 

Cupri  nitras,  Br .,  Cu(N03)2.3II20,  a deep-blue  deliquescent  salt,  is  made  by  dissolving  copper 
in  diluted  nitric  acid. 

Action  and  Uses. — Acetate  of  copper  has  been  used  in  lotions  for  various  local 
inflammations,  including  gonorrhoea , in  solutions  of  to  1 per  cent.,  and  internally,  in 
pill  or  potion  in  doses  of  to  1 grain,  in  several  chronic  shin  diseases , scrofula , inter- 
mittent fever,  and  epilepsy;  but  in  the  latter  affection  it  is  now  quite  obsolete,  and  in 
the  former  is  superseded  by  the  sulphate.  Acetate  of  copper  has  been  employed,  like 
acetate  of  zinc,  in  colly ria  and  for  stimulating  aphthous  ulcers  of  the  mouth. 

Subacetate  of  copper  is  very  rarely  used  internally,  and  seldom  as  a local  application. 
Its  stimulant  or  escharotic  action,  according  to  the  strength  of  the  solution  employed,  is 
sometimes  taken  advantage  of  in  the  treatment  of  indolent  ulcers  and  chronic  tubercu- 
lated  affections  of  the  skin,  and  to  remove  condylomata  and  warts , especially  the  soft 
warts  due  to  syphilis.  These  excrescences,  and  also  condylomata,  may  be  destroyed  by  a 
mixture  of  equal  parts  of  verdigris  and  powdered  savine. 

CUPRI  SULPHAS,  77.  S.,  Br.— Copper  Sulphate. 

Cuprum  sulfur icum,  P.  G.  ; Sulfas  cupricus , Cuprum  vitriolatum. — Cupric  sulphate , 
Blue  vitriol , Blue  stone,  E.  ; Vitriol  bleu , Sulfate  de  cuivre,  Fr. ; Kupfervitriol,  Blauer 
Vitriol,  Schwefelsaures  Kupfer  ( ' Kupferoxyd ),  G. ; Solfato  di  rame,  It. ; So/fato  de  cobre,  Sp. 
Formula  CuS04.5H20.  Molecular  weight  248.8. 

Preparation. — Blue  vitriol  is  obtained  on  a large  scale  from  the  native  (copper 
pyrites ) or  artificially-prepared  sulphide  by  converting  it  through  oxidation  into  the  sul- 
phate ; for  this  purpose  the  sulphide  is  obtained  by  heating  sheet  copper  to  redness  and 
throwing  sulphur  upon  it.  The  water  accumulating  in  copper-mines  contains  the  sul- 
phate in  solution,  formed  by  the  oxidation  of  the  native  sulphide.  The  iron  contained  in 
this  is  removed  either  by  digesting  with  copper  oxide  or  carbonate  or  by  evaporating 
to  dryness  and  heating  until  the  iron  salt  is  decomposed.  The  same  salt  is  also  formed 
in  the  preparation  of  sulphurous  acid  from  copper  and  hot  oil  of  vitriol,  and  in  the 
extraction  or  purification  of  silver  by  precipitating  this  metal  from  its  sulphuric  acid 
solution  by  means  of  copper ; also  by  dissolving  the  black  scales  obtained  in  coppersmith- 
ing  in  weak  sulphuric  acid  (chamber  acid). 

36 


562 


CUPRI  SULPHAS. 


Purification. — Copper  sulphate  cannot  by  recrystallization  be  separated  from  the 
sulphates  of  the  allied  and  of  the  alkali  metals,  owing  to  the  formation  of  double  salts. 
The  so-called  double  vitriol  (vitriol  de  Salzbourg,  Fr.  ; Doppelvitriol,  G.)  contains  70  to 
80  per  cent,  of  ferrous  sulphate,  and  the  vitriol  mixte  de  Chypre  contains  zinc  sulphate ; 
these  were  formerly,  but  now  are  rarely,  employed  in  the  arts.  If  iron  alone  is  present, 
it  may  be  conveniently  removed  by  oxidizing  with  nitric  acid  and  digesting  the  solution 
with  barium  carbonate ; ferric  hydroxide  and  barium  sulphate  will  be  precipitated  with 
the  excess  of  the  carbonate,  and  the  filtrate  will  yield  pure  crystals.  If  contaminated 
with  other  metals  its  purification  will  be  difficult,  and  it  is  more  convenient  to  prepare 
the  salt  directly  by  heating  3 parts  of  copper  with  10  parts  of  sulphuric  acid,  or  with  5 
parts  of  sulphuric  acid,  50  of  water,  and  4 or  5 of  nitric  acid. 

Properties. — Copper  sulphate  crystallizes  in  transparent  azure-blue  oblique  tri- 
clinic short  prisms,  which  are  without  odor,  and  have  a disagreeable  styptic  metallic  taste, 

the  specific  gravity  2.274,  and  an  acid  reaction.  On  tritura- 
tion they  yield  a whitish-blue  powder,  and  on  exposure  to  a 
dry  atmosphere  they  effloresce  superficially.  “ When  care- 
fully and  continuously  heated  to  30°  C.  (86°  F.),  the  salt 
loses  2 of  its  5 molecules  of  water  (14.43  per  cent.),  and  is 
converted  into  a pale-blue,  amorphous  powder.  Two  more 
molecules  of  water  are  lost  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.),  while  the 
fifth  is  retained  until  200°  C.  (392°  F.)  is  reached,  when  a 
white,  anhydrous  powder  remains  (63.9  per  cent.).  At  a 
still  higher  temperature  sulphur  dioxide  and  oxygen  are 
given  off,  and  a residue  of  black  cupric  oxide  is  left.” — U.  S. 
The  salt  is  insoluble  in  alcohol,  but  dissolves  in  400  parts  of 
diluted  alcohol  sp.  grav.  .940.  1 part  of  the  crystallized 
salt  dissolves  in  about  2.6  parts  of  water  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.), 
U.  S.  (3.5  parts  P.  G .),  and  in  0.5  part  of  boiling  water, 
U.  S.  (1  part,  P.  G.).  The  solution  has  a pale-blue  color,  which  is  changed  to  green  on 
the  addition  of  a soluble  chloride,  and  yields  a white  precipitate  with  barium  chloride 
and  a blue  one  with  ammonia-water,  soluble  in  excess  of  the  latter.  Commercial  blue 
vitriol  (Cuprum  sulfuricum  crudum,  P.  G .)  is  sometimes  quite  impure,  but  there  is  no 
difficulty  in  finding  in  our  market  very  good  and  pure  copper  sulphate. 

Tests. — “ If  ammonia-water  be  added  to  the  solution,  drop  by  drop,  a pale-blue  pre- 
cipitate of  cupric  hydroxide  is  formed,  which  redissolves  in  an  excess  of  ammonia-water, 
forming  a deep  azure-blue  solution,  leaving  no  trace  of  residue  undissolved  (absence  of 
iron,  aluminum,  etc.).  If  the  aqueous  solution  (1  in  20)  be  heated  to  boiling  with  an  ex- 
cess of  sodium  hydroxide  test-solution,  until  all  the  copper  has  been  converted  into  black 
cupric  oxide,  it  will  yield  a filtrate  which,  after  acidulation  with  acetic  acid  should  not  be 
colored  or  rendered  turbid  by  an  equal  volume  of  hydrogen  sulphide  test-solution  (absence 
of  arsenic,  lead,  zinc,  etc.)  If  hydrogen-sulphide  gas  be  passed  through  10  Cc.  of  the 
solution  slightly  acidulated  with  hydrochloric  acid,  until  all  of  the  copper  is  precipitated 
as  sulphide,  the  filtrate  should,  on  evaporation,  leave  not  more  than  a trace  of  fixed 
residue  (limit  of  iron,  aluminum,  alkaline  earths,  etc.).” — U.  S. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparations. — Cuprum  aluminatum.  P.  G.,  s.  Lapis  divinus . 
Kupferalaun,  G.  It  is  prepared  by  powdering  17  parts  each  of  pure  cupric  sulphate, 
potassium  nitrate,  and  alum,  fusing  the  mixture  in  a porcelain  capsule  at  a moderate 
heat,  adding  a previously  prepared  mixture  of  finely-powdered  camphor  and  alum  each 
1 part,  stirring  well,  and  immediately  pouring  upon  a porcelain  slab  or  plate  to  cool  and 
harden,  when  it  is  broken  into  pieces  and  preserved  in  well-stoppered  bottles.  The  pierre 
divine  or  pierre  ophthalmique  of  the  French  Codex  contains  a trifle  less  of  camphor.  In 
dispensing  the  aluminated  copper  it  should  be  well  triturated  in  a mortar  with  a few 
drops  of  water  before  the  remaining  ingredients  are  added,  to  facilitate  the  solution  of 
the  camphor.  A collyrium,  Collyre  de  pierre  divine  (F.  Cod.),  is  made  by  dissolving  4 
parts  of  aluminated  copper  in  1000  parts  of  water,  and  filtering. 

Allied  Compounds. — Cuprum  ammoniatum,  Cuprum  sulfuricum  ammoniatum. — Ammoniated 
copper,  Ammonio-sulphate  of  copper,  E. ; Sulfat  de  cuivre  ammoniacal,  Cuivre  ammoniacal,  Fr. ; 
Schwefelsaures  Kupferroxyd-Ammoniak  (Kupfer- Ammonium,  Cuprammonium)  G. — Formula 
of  crystals  Cu(NH3)4S04.H20  ; molecular  weight  245. — Rub  together  in  a glass  mortar  copper 
sulphate  4 parts  and  ammonium  carbonate  3 parts  until  effervescence  ceases ; wrap  the  product 
in  bibulous  paper,  dry  it  with  a gentle  heat,  and  keep  it  in  a well-stoppered  bottle. — U.  S.  1870. 
This  preparation  contains  an  excess  of  ammonium  carbonate.  It  is  obtained  pure  and  in  crys- 


Fig.  89. 


Crystal  of  Copper  Sulphate. 


CVPRI  SULPHAS. 


563 

tals  by  dissolving  copper  sulphate  1 part  in  ammonia-water  3 parts,  filtering,  and  pouring  upon 
the  solution  6 parts  of  alcohol ; in  proportion  as  the  latter  abstracts  the  water  from  the  solution, 
prismatic  crystals  will  be  deposited.  The  salt  will  be  at  once  separated  as  a crystalline  powder 
on  mixing  the  alcohol  with  the  aqueous  solution.  Ammonio-sulphate  of  copper  has  a deep 
azure-blue  color  and  an  ammoniacal  odor ; exposed  to  the  air,  it  loses  ammonia  and  gradually 
changes  to  light  blue.  It  dissolves  in  1 b parts  of  cold  water ; the  solution  has  an  alkaline  reac- 
tion and  metallic  taste,  and  on  the  addition  of  more  water  becomes  turbid  and  produces  a sedi- 
ment. With  a solution  of  arsenous  acid  a green  precipitate  (Scheele’s  green)  is  produced.  When 
the  salt  is  heated  to  150°  C.  (302°  F.)  ammonia  and  water  are  given  off,  and  an  apple-green 
powder  remains  having  the  composition  Cu(NH3)2S04,  being  a cupro-diammonium  sulphate, 
while  the  medicinal  salt  is  a cupro-tetrammonium  sulphate ; this  contains  27.10  per  cent  of  am- 
monia and  32.38  oxide  of  copper.  Berzelius  obtained  26.40  and  34.0  per  cent. 

Cupri  oxidum,  Cuprum  oxydatum. — Cupric  oxide,  E. ; Oxyde  de  cuivre,  Safran  de  Venus, 
Fr. ; Kupferoxyd,  G. — CuO  ; mol.  weight  79.14. — Dissolve  copper  sulphate  10  parts  and  sodium 
carbonate  15  parts  each  in  hot  water  50  parts ; mix  the  solutions,  and  continue  the  heat  until 
the  voluminous  precipitate  becomes  dense  ; collect  this,  wash  it  well,  and  expose  it  to  a moderate 
red  heat.  It  is  a soft,  black,  amorphous,  heavy  powder,  which  dissolves  in  dilute  nitric  acid 
without  effervescence  (absence  of  carbonate) ; this  blue  solution  may  be  tested  for  iron  and  other 
metals  by  ammonia  and  hydrogen  sulphide  in  the  same  manner  as  copper  sulphate.  If  to  1 
Gin.  of  copper  oxide  be  added  1 Cc.  of  solution  of  ferrous  sulphate,  and  afterward,  without 
mixing,  1 Cc.  of  strong  sulphuric  acid,  a brown  color  should  not  be  produced  between  the 
liquids  (absence  of  nitrate).  By  precipitating  a solution  of  copper  sulphate  with  an  excess  of 
potassa  or  soda,  and  boiling,  a brownish-black  powder  is  obtained  having  the  composition 
Cu(OH)2  -f-  CuO  (molecular  weight  255.38)  ; by  red  heat  it  is  converted  into  anhydrous  oxide,  CuO. 

Action  and  Uses. — Taken  in  small  doses  by  man,  sulphate  of  copper  may  be  re- 
garded as  astringent  and  tonic.  It  does  not  act  on  healthy  tissue  as  a caustic.  In 
emetic  doses  its  action  is  prompt  and  rapid,  and  it  leaves  no  nausea  or  depression  behind 
it.  Even  in  very  large  (and  in  what  may  be  called  poisonous)  doses  it  is  rarely  fatal  to 
life,  and  recovery  is  usually  rapid  and  complete,  although  in  some  cases  derangement  of 
the  digestive  function,  with  diarrhoea,  may  for  a time  continue.  The  symptoms  of  acute 
poisoning  by  this  substance  are  headache,  convulsions,  colic,  vomiting,  collapse,  suppres- 
sion of  urine,  and  sometimes  jaundice.  In  the  rare  cases  of  death  following  directly 
upon  poisoning  by  sulphate  of  copper  congestion  of  the  gastro-intestinal  mucous  mem- 
brane was  the  only  discoverable  lesion  ; in  some  instances  of  death  occurring  at  a later 
period  ulceration,  and  even  sloughing  and  perforation,  of  the  bowel  have  been  found. 

The  power  of  copper  to  neutralize  the  infectious  agent  of  cholera , which  was  sup- 
posed to  have  been  proved  by  the  immunity  from  this  disease  of  workers  in  the  metal, 
has  not  been  sustained  by  experience.  The  emetic  operation  of  sulphate  of  copper  is 
peculiarly  appropriate  to  the  treatment  of  pseudo-membranous  croup , on  account  of  its 
sustained  mechanical  and  expulsive  action,  unaccompanied  by  nausea  or  other  cause  of 
depression.  It  has  no  specific  operation  whatever  upon  the  seat  of  the  plastic  exudation, 
and  therefore  it  can  only  be  useful  when  the  membrane  has  become  spontaneously  loose 
or  been  loosened  by  other  agents — such,  for  instance,  as  mercury,  inhaled  lime-water  or 
lactic  acid,  and  possibly  in  some  cases  by  depletion.  In  malignant  sore  throat  a solution 
of  2 grains  to  the  ounce  has  been  given  in  tablespoonful  doses  every  ten  or  fifteen  min- 
utes with  alleged  success.  It  is  probable  that  the  local  application  by  means  of  a sponge 
of  this  or  of  a stronger  solution  would  be,  at  the  least,  as  efficient.  There  is  some  reason 
to  think  that  quartan  agues  have  been  cured  by  sulphate  of  copper  in  doses  of  \ grain 
three  times  a day.  It  has  been  alleged  that  sulphate  of  copper  is  a more  certain  remedy 
than  mercury  for  constitutional  syphilis , but  this  claim  of  Martin  and  Oberlin  does  not 
appear  to  have  been  confirmed.  Solutions  of  the  salt  form  efficient  injections  for  gleet 
and  leucorrhoea,.  They  should  have  a strength  of  1 or  2 grains  to  the  ounce.  In  leu- 
corrhoea  they  may  be  applied  on  tampons.  Dysentery  and  diarrhoea  in  their  chronic 
forms,  but  especially  the  former  disease,  are  often  materially  benefited  by  enemas  of  a 
pint  of  tepid  water  holding  in  solution  from  10  to  20  grains  of  sulphate  of  copper.  All 
forms  of  ulcers  are  very  advantageously  modified  by  it,  as  ulcers  of  the  cornea,  nostrils, 
mouth,  vagina,  and  general  surface,  especially  when  they  present  an  indolent  aspect  or 
arise  in  vitiated  states  of  the  system  ; for  example,  in  ulcerative  stomatitis , gangrene  of 
the  pharynx,  mercurial  sore  mouth , etc.  In  conjunctivitis , especially  of  the  chronic,  and 
most  of  all  of  the  granular,  form,  this  salt  is  of  great  service.  When  the  granulations 
are  large  a crystal  of  sulphate  of  copper  should  be  used.  The  same  agent  will  sometimes 
suffice  to  arrest  haemorrhage  from  bleeding  surfaces ; for  this  purpose  also  it  is  sometimes 
used  in  the  form  of  a powder,  which  may  be  mixed  with  an  equal  quantity  of  powdered 
gum  arabic.  The  stimulant  and  astringent  action  of  the  salt  has  been  applied  to  the  cure  of 


564 


CUPRI  SULPHAS. 


various  local  affections  of  the  skin,  such  as  acne  rosacea , ichthyosis , alopecia,  etc.  In 
1866,  Bamberger  proposed  sulphate  of  copper  as  an  antidote  to  acute  poisoning  by  phos- 
phorus, upon  the  ground  that  the  phosphorus  reduces  the  metal,  which  coats  the  remain- 
ing phosphorus  and  renders  it  innocuous.  He  recommended  that  sulphate  of  copper 
should  be  given  first  in  an  emetic  dose,  and  then  continued  in  smaller  quantities.  A critic 
of  this  method  (1872)  remarked  that  it  was  certainly  very  ingenious,  but  there  was  no 
proof  of  its  efficiency  ; and  Eulenberg  and  Landois,  who  used  carbonate  of  copper  for 
the  same  purpose  in  experiments  upon  animals,  found  that  the  alleged  antidote  delayed 
their  death,  but  did  not  prevent  it.  Charpentier  claimed  that  a 1 per  cent,  solution  of 
sulphate  of  copper  made  an  efficient  antiseptic  solution  for  vaginal  injection  after  child- 
birth. Sternberg’s  observations  on  various  bacilli  led  him  to  conclude  that  this  agent 
has  but  little  effect  on  spore-bearing  pathogenic  organisms,  but  that  it  is  a valuable 
germicide  and  disinfectant  of  material  not  containing  spores  {Med.  News , xlvii.  204). 

Sulphate  of  copper  is  the  basis  of  the  most  usual  and  convenient  tests  for  diabetic  sugar. 
They  all  essentially  consist  of  oxide  of  copper,  held  in  solution  by  an  alkali  through  the 
medium  of  organic  matter  which,  unlike  sugar,  has  not  the  property  of  deoxidizing  copper 
salts  during  ebullition  (Pavy).  The  most  usual  form  of  the  solution  is  as  follows  : Sulphate 
of  copper  320  gr. ; neutral  tartrate  of  potash  640  gr.  ; caustic  potash  or  soda  1280  gr. ; 
distilled  water  20  f£.  Dissolve  the  sulphate  of  copper  in  10  ounces  of  the  water,  and 
the  tartrate  of  potash  and  the  caustic  potash  or  soda  in  the  remainder.  If  on  being  boiled 
any  deposit  occurs,  a little  excess  of  potash  or  soda  must  be  added.  When  this  solution 
is  heated  in  a test-tube  and  a drop  or  two  of  diabetic  urine  is  added,  a more  or  less 
copious  deposit  of  suboxide  of  copper  forms  as  a yellow,  orange-yellow,  orange-red,  or 
brownish-red  precipitate.  It  is  said  that  1 grain  of  sulphate  of  copper  dissolved  in  an 
ounce  of  glycerin  forms  a solution  of  which  1 drachm  will  reduce  1 grain  of  grape-sugar 
in  a caustic  alkali : 2 or  3 drops  of  the  mixture  are  put  into  a test-tube  and  half  an 
ounce  of  liquor  potassse  added ; the  whole  is  then  boiled,  a few  drops  of  urine  added,  and 
the  whole  boiled  again  ” (Oppenheimer,  Med.  Record , xix.  27). 

Ammoniated  copper  in  medicinal  doses  does  not  produce  any  immediately  sensible  effects 
upon  the  healthy  system,  but  in  large  doses  it  occasions  nausea,  giddiness,  confusion  or  dim- 
ness of  sight,  vomiting,  colic,  constipation,  or  diarrhoea,  and,  if  persisted  in,  is  said  to  cause 
muscular  spasms  or  paralysis,  wasting  of  the  body,  and  death.  It  was  once  reputed  to  be 
an  efficient  remedy  for  epilepsy , but  more  accurate  and  continued  observation  has  not  sus- 
tained its  character.  It  is  one  of  the  many  medicines  to  which  cures  of  chorea  have  been 
ascribed,  and  sometimes  with  such  emphasis  and  detailed  proofs  that  some  faith  in  its 
efficacy  cannot  easily  be  withheld.  If  employed  in  this  disease,  it  should  be  given  at  first 
in  doses  of  Gm.  0.03  (J  grain)  three  or  four  times  a day  in  an  aromatic  vehicle,  with  a 
small  proportion  of  laudanum,  and  rapidly  but  gradually  increased  until  it  begins  to 
disturb  the  stomach.  It  should  be  administered  when  the  stomach  contains  food.  It 
is  stated  by  Fereol  to  have  cured  trigeminal  neuralgia  that  had  resisted  all  the  most 
accredited  medicines.  The  medium  dose  employed  by  him  was  about  2 grains,  and  was 
given  after  meals  for  ten  or  fifteen  days  ( Monthly  Abstract , Aug.  1879,  p.  349). 
Locally,  it  has  been  employed  for  the  same  purposes  as  sulphate  of  copper  in  solution 
and  in  ointments. 

Oleate  of  copper , from  one  to  6 parts  in  an  ounce  of  cosmoline,  is  stated  to  have  been 
very  efficient  in  the  various  forms  of  tinea , even  the  most  obstinate. 

Arsenite  of  copper  (Scheele’s  green)  has  been  used  in  minute  doses  with  apparent 
advantage  by  Reed  {Med.  Register , Sept.  1888,  p.  230)  and  by  Aulde  and  others  ( Therap . 
Gaz.,  xiii.  459  ; Med.  News , lv.  517)  in  the  treatment  of  cholera  infantum  and  diarrhoea. 
The  dose  suggested  is  grain  dissolved  in  4 to  6 ounces  of  water,  of  which  a tea- 
spoonful is  given  at  intervals  of  ten  minutes  at  first,  and  later  of  an  hour. 

As  an  emetic,  sulphate  of  copper  may  be  given  in  doses  of  from  Gm.  0.10-0.60  (gr. 
ij— x)  of  the  powdered  salt  mixed  with  pulverized  sugar,  and  repeated  every  ten  or  fifteen 
minutes  if  necessary.  As  a tonic  or  astringent  the  dose  is  from  Gm.  0.016-0.12  (gr. 
1-ij)  in  pill.  For  local  application  solutions  containing  Gm.  0.6-0.60  (gr.  j-x)  to  the 
ounce  of  water  may  be  used.  Pencils  of  sulphate  of  copper  are  made  by  fusing  together 
2 parts  of  this  salt  with  1 of  alum.  They  are  also  produced  by  first  depriving  the 
sulphate  of  its  water  of  crystallization,  reducing  it  to  a fine  powder,  and  then,  after 
placing  it  in  paper  moulds,  surrounding  them  with  wet  cloths,  which  restores  the  water  of 
crystallization. 


CUPRUM. 


565 


CUPRUM,  Hr. — Copper. 

Cupreum  jilum. — Copper  ivire,  E.;  Cuivre , Ft l de  cuivre,  Fr.;  Kupfer , Kupferdraht , G. 
Rome,  It.;  Cobre,  Sp. 

Symbol  Cu.  Atomicity  bivalent.  Atomic  weight  63.18. 

Fine  copper  wire,  about  No.  25. 

Origin. — Copper,  which  has  been  known  from  the  earliest  times,  is  often  found  in  the 
metallic  state  as  native  copper,  notably  near  Lake  Superior  ; occasionally  it  is  met  with 
in  the  oxidized  state  as  black  and  red  copper  ore  or  as  a carbonate  in  malachite,  and  fre- 
quently as  sulphide  in  copper  pyrites,  copper  glance,  and  gray  copper  ore,  etc.  It  is  a 
natural  constituent  in  minute  quantities  of  some  mineral  springs  and  of  many  vegetable 
and  animal  organisms.  The  smelting  process  is  rather  complicated  for  many  ores,  and 
depends  mainly  upon  the  oxidation  of  the  sulphurets  by  roasting  and  the  reduction  of 
the  metal  by  means  of  charcoal  or  by  fusing  a mixture  of  oxide  and  sulphide  of  copper. 
Arsenic  and  antimony,  which  are  often  present,  are  expelled  by  the  repeated  roastings, 
together  with  the  sulphur,  and  the  iron  is  made  to  enter  the  slag. 

Properties. — Copper  is  a very  sonorous,  malleable,  and  ductile  metal  of  a reddish 
color,  having  the  specific  gravity  8.92  or  when  hammered  8.95.  It  melts  at  a bright-red 
heat,  first  becoming  brittle,  and  expands  in  volume  on  congealing.  It  is  inferior  to  iron 
in  tenacity  or  strength  and  in  hardness,  but  superior  to  it  as  a conductor  of  electricity 
and  heat  and  in  resisting  the  chemical  action  of  moist  air.  Copper  is  not  acted  upon  by 
cold  concentrated  or  hot  dilute  sulphuric  acid,  but  it  dissolves  readily  in  nitric  acid.  The 
most  important  of  the  numerous  alloys  of  copper  are  brass , containing  about  28  to  36 
per  cent,  of  zinc ; bronze , containing  8 to  12  per  cent  of  tin,  and  sometimes  a little  zinc 
and  lead ; bell-metal , containing  20  to  25  per  cent,  of  tin ; and  German  silver , composed 
of  8 copper,  31  zinc,  and  3 or  4 nickel. 

Chemical  Characteristics. — Copper  forms  two  series  of  salts — cuprous  and  cupric , 
the  former  of  which  are  of  little  importance.  The  anhydrous  cupric  salts  are  usually 
white,  the  hydrated  green  or  blue ; the  soluble  ones  have  an  acid  reaction,  and  their 
solutions  are  decomposed  by  iron,  zinc,  and  the  earth  metals,  with  the  precipitation  of 
copper.  Potassa  precipitates  voluminous  blue  hydroxide,  Cu(OH).2,  which  when  boiled 
turns  to  black,  Cu(OH)2  -f-  CuO.  Potassium  carbonate  precipitates  green  oxycarbonate 
of  copper,  the  precipitate  turning  black  on  boiling.  Ammonia-water  and  ammonium 
carbonate  occasion  bluish-green  precipitates  which  dissolve  in  an  excess,  forming  deep 
azure-blue  solutions.  Potassium  ferrocyanide  yields  a brown-red  precipitate,  which  is 
insoluble  in  dilute  acids.  Hydrogen  sulphide  separates  from  acid  solutions  brown- 
black  copper  sulphide.  Potassium  iodide  produces  a grayish-white  precipitate  of  cuprous 
iodide,  one-half  of  the  iodine  being  at  the  same  time  liberated. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Copper  wire  is  employed  in  the  preparation  of  Spiritus 
aetheris  nitrosi  for  generating  nitrous  acid. — Br. 

Copper  Pigments. — Bremen  blue  or  Bremen  green  is  cupric  hydroxide,  prepared  by  pre- 
cipitating a copper  salt  with  an  alkali  and  drying  the  precipitate  below  40°  C (104°  F.)  Used  as 
abater-color,  it  remains  blue,  but  if  used  as  an  oil-color  it  becomes  green  from  the  formation  of 
a copper  soap.  Basic  cupric  carbonate  is  sometimes  sold  under  the  same  name. 

Brunswick  green  is  either  copper  oxycarbonate  or  oxychloride. 

Mountain  green  or  Mineral  green  is  powdered  green  malachite  or  artificially-prepared  cop- 
per oxycarbonate. 

Scheele’s  green.  Copper  sulphate  is  precipitated  by  a solution  of  arsenous  acid  in  sodium 
carbonate  ; its  composition,  according  to  Sharpies  (1877),  is  Cu3As206.2II20. 

Schweinfurt  Green  or  Paris  green  is  copper  aceto-arsenite,  prepared  by  boiling  the  mixed 
hot  solutions  of  cupric  acetate  and  arsenous  acid. 

Most  of  these  pigments  are  also  sold  under  other  names  than  those  given  above.  As  met  with 
in  commerce,  they  are  frequently  mixed  with  alumina  or  calcium  and  barium  compounds,  and 
thus  constitute  lower  grades.  Mixtures  of  chrome-yellow  and  Prussian  blue  are  likewise  sold 
under  several  of  the  above  names. 

Action  and  Uses. — Copper  in  the  metallic  state  is  not  known  to  exercise  any 
specific  action  upon  the  economy.  Workers  in  the  metal,  although  constantly  covered  with 
its  dust  and  receiving  such  large  quantities  of  it  into  the  system  through  the  lungs  and 
digestive  apparatus  that  it  is  readily  detected  in  the  urine,  do  not  appear  to  be  liable  to 
any  special  disease,  although  they  have  a more  or  less  anaemic  appearance  and  are  subject 
to  giddiness,  lassitude,  and  dyspepsia.  They  are  apt  to  lose  their  teeth  early,  and  their 
gums  present  a green  or  olive-colored  line,  and  the  teeth  are  discolored  in  the  same  manner. 
In  1869,  Dr.  Clapton  pointed  out  the  absolute  freedom  of  the  workmen  in  copper  from 


566 


CURARE. 


cholera  or  choleraic  diarrhoea  (Trans.  Clin.  Soc.,  iii.  '7).  And  in  1880,  Dr.  Burq  (Bull, 
de  Ther .,  xcviii.  330)  not  only  maintained  this  opinion,  but  also  alleged  that  these  work- 
men are  equally  insusceptible  of  contracting  typhoid  fever,  and  that  musicians  who  play  on 
brass  instruments  are  not  liable  to  either  disease.  On  the  other  hand,  there  can  be  no 
doubt  that  persons  who  work  at  trades  in  which  copper-leaf  is  employed  in  the  form 
of  “ bronze  powder  ” may  suffer  from  it.  The  symptoms  do  not  seem  to  be  uniformly 
alike,  for  diarrhoea  or  constipation  may  exist ; but  in  all  cases  there  are  abdominal  pain 
and  tenderness,  nausea  and  vomiting,  an  anaemic  appearance  of  the  skin,  and  a purplish 
discoloration  of  the  gums.  Copper  has  been  found  in  the  faeces.  In  one  case  death  was 
ascribed  to  peritonitis.  The  treatment  of  such  poisoning  should  be  by  gentle  but 
repeated  purgation  with  salines,  warm  baths,  and  a milk  diet  (British  Med.  Jour.,  July 
24,  1880 ; Phila.  Med.  Times , xi.  457). 

CURARE,  J Fr.  Cod. 

Urari,  Wourari , Wourali,  Woorara . 

Preparation. — Dr.  Jobert,  writing  from  Belen  de  Para  to  the  French  Academy 
(1878),  made  the  following  statement  concerning  the  preparation  of  this  South  American 
arrow-poison : The  principal  ingredients  are  urari  u va  (probably  Strychnos  Castelnseana, 
Weddell)  and  eko,  also  called  pani  du  mahardo  (probably  Cocculus  toxiferus,  Weddell), 
The  young  bark  of  these  plants  is  well  scraped,  and  the  scrapings  are  mixed  in  the  pro 
portion  of  4 parts  of  the  former  and  1 part  of  the  latter  ; the  mixture  is  well  kneaded  with 
the  hands,  and,  in  a funnel  made  of  palm-leaf,  exhausted  with  cold  water,  the  liquid  being 
returned  seven  or  eight  times.  The  red  infusion  is  boiled  with  fragments  of  taja  (an 
Aroidea)  and  mucura-ea-ha  or  eone  (probably  Didelphys  cancrivora).  After  about  6 
hours  the  liquid  has  acquired  a thick  consistence,  and  is  mixed  with  the  scrapings  of 
three  species  of  pepper  (Artanthe  ?)  and  tauma-gere , and  again  boiled  and  allowed  to 
cool,  when  it  will  have  the  consistence  of  a thick  paste. 

Dr.  Bichard  Schomburgk  (1879)  observed  the  following  ingredients  to  be  used  in  the 
preparation  of  usari  or  urati  in  British  Guiana  : Bark  of  Strychnos  toxifera,  Schomburgk. 
2 pounds;  Str.  Schomburgkii,  Klotzsch , Str.  cogens,  Bentham  (aurimaru),  and  wakarimo , 
of  each  \ pound  ; roots  of  tariteng  and  tararemu , of  each  1 ounce  ; four  small  pieces  of 
wood  of  a species  of  Xanthoxyleae  called  manuea.  An  extract  is  made  by  boiling  these 
articles  with  water,  straining,  and  adding  to  the  thick  liquid  the  slimy  juice  pressed  out 
of  the  fleshy  root  of  a species  of  Cissus,  called  muramu;  the  mixture  is  further  evap- 
orated by  exposing  it  to  the  sun. 

Planchon  (1879)  added  to  the  above-named  species  Strychnos  Gubleri,  Planchon,  which 
is  used  on  the  Bio  Negro;  Str.  Crevauxii,  Planchon , in  Upper  French  Guiana;  and  Str. 
Yapurensis,  Planchon,  on  the  Yapura  Biver.  In  addition  to  these,  Bouhamon  (Strychnos, 
Martins)  guianensis,  Aublet , Str.  cogens,  Bentham,  Paullinia  Cururu,  Linne,  and  other 
plants  have  been  named  as  being  used  in  the  preparation  of  this  poison  in  different  parts 
of  South  America. 

Properties. — Curare  is  a blackish-brown  extract,  brittle  or  hygroscopic,  of  a v<^r 
bitter  taste,  and  almost  completely  soluble  in  dilute  alcohol ; cold  water  dissolves  about 
75  per  cent. ; this  portion  contains  the  poisonous  alkaloids,  and  is  insoluble  in  ether  and 
very  sparingly  soluble  in  absolute  alcohol. 

Constituents. — Boussingault  and  Boulin  (1828)  separated  from  curare  some  fat, 
brown  resin,  red  coloring  matter,  gum,  clay,  and  the  alkaloid  curarine,  which  was  pre- 
viously discovered  by  A.  Buchner  (1827).  It  was  examined  by  Preyer  (1865),  Dragen- 
dorff,  Koch  (1870),  and  Sachs  (1878),  and  appears  to  exist  in  curare  as  sulphate  and  to 
have  the  composition  Ci8H35N.  It  has  a very  bitter  taste,  but  less  persistent  than  strych- 
nine ; is  freely  soluble  in  alcohol  and  water,  less  soluble  in  chloroform  and  amylic  alco- 
hol, insoluble  in  absolute  ether,  carbon  disulphide,  and  benzol ; colored  deep-red  by  nitric 
acid,  and  by  concentrated  sulphuric  acid  acquires  a carmine-red  color,  which,  on  the  addi- 
tion of  potassium  bichromate,  becomes  violet,  the  reaction  being  very  similar  to  that  pro- 
duced by  strychnine  under  the  same  treatment,  but  the  coloration  is  more  permanent. 
It  yields  precipitates  with  all  the  group-reagents  for  alkaloids,  and  is  precipitated  yellow 
by  potassium  ferricyanide,  and  white  by  potassium  ferrocyanide,  sulphocyanate,  and 
iodate,  and  by  sodium  phosphate  and  arsenate.  B.  Bohm  (1887)  found  curarine  to  have 
a neutral  reaction  ; to  not  neutralize  acids  ; to  be  non-deliquescent,  amorphous,  and  yel- 
low ; to  yield  a greenish  fluorescent  solution  in  water,  and  on  evaporating  this  with  a 
mineral  acid  to  form  needles  which  are  not  poisonous.  Curare  contains  a non-toxic  alka- 


CURCAS. 


567 


loid,  curine , which  crystallizes  from  ether,  is  precipitated  by  metaphosphoric  acid,  and  on 
treatment  with  methyl  iodide  yields  an  alkaloid  having  the  effects  of  curare.  It  seems 
probable  that  the  composition  of  the  active  principle  may  vary  with  the  origin  of  curare. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  effect  of  curare  and  curarine  on  animals  is  mainly  to  pro- 
duce paralysis,  first  of  the  voluntary  and  then  of  the  involuntary  muscles,  and  to  cause 
death  by  asphyxia.  On  man  it  acts  locally  as  a powerful  irritant  of  the  denuded  cutis. 
Internally,  it  may  cause  sweating  and  saccharine  urine  ; but  its  most  characteristic  effect 
is  to  occasion  general  paralysis  of  the  voluntary  muscles  by  its  action  upon  the  ends 
rather  than  upon  the  origins  of  the  motor  nerves.  Lehmann  produced  such  effects  in 
himself  by  Gm.  0.007  (gr.  i)  of  curarine  sulphate,  given  hypodermically,  but  they  were 
slight  and  transient  ( Therap.  Gaz .,  ix.  542 ; compare  Lancet , Apr.  1889,  p.  739). 
Curare  has  been  employed  chiefly  in  the  treatment  of  several  grave  diseases  attended 
with  nervous  spasms,  and  especially  tetanus,  epilepsy,  chorea,  and  hydrophobia.  It  is 
well  known  that  tetanus , even  of  the  traumatic  form,  has  been  treated  successfully  with 
various  medicines  which  control  muscular  action,  and  this  one  is  reported  to  have  cured 
thirteen  out  of  thirty-three  cases  (Demme  ; Busch).  Other  persons  have  published  sim- 
ilar results,  but  in  isolated  cases.  There  can  be  no  doubt  that,  appropriately  administered, 
it  effectually  controls  the  spasms,  probably  by  its  direct  action  upon  the  muscles,  and 
thereby  spares  the  patient  the  exhaustion  which  the  spasms  produce.  Practically,  how- 
ever, curare  is  seldom  employed  in  the  treatment  of  tetanus.  Vulpian  even  comes  to  the 
conclusion  that  it  does  not  favorably  influence  the  termination  of  that  disease  ( Lcgons  sur 
les  Substances  toxiques , p.  396)  ; and  the  later  observations  of  Karg  do  not  modify  his 
conclusion.  In  epilepsy  Kunze  claims  to  have  cured  nine  out  of  thirty-five  cases  by  this 
medicine,  but  in  a later  report  only  six  cases  out  of  eighty  {Med.  Times  and  Gaz.,  Nov. 
1878,  p.  523)  ; and  Eddlefsen  three  out  of  thirteen  cases,  using  hypodermic  injections  with 
a primary  dose  of  ^ grain  ( Edinb . Med.  Jour.,  xxvii.  842).  Bourneville  and  Bricou,  after 
sufficient  trial,  concluded  that  it  was  worthless  in  the  treatment  of  epilepsy  ( Med . News , 
xlvii.  8).  In  chorea  it  also  appears  to  be  useless.  It  has  been  tried  in  rabies , uniformly 
with  the  result  of  appeasing  or  suspending  the  spasms,  and  in  at  least  three  cases  it  is 
said  to  have  cured  the  disease.  A critical  examination  of  these  leaves  a doubt  as. to  their 
nature.  The  reporters  do  not  always  seem  to  have  been  aware  of  the  distinction  between 
rabies  canina  and  hydrophobia,  nor  of  the  alleged  cure  of  the  disease  by  various  remedies, 
such  as  Xanthium  spinosum,  the  hot  vapor-bath,  oxygen,  etc.  It  should  also  be  noted 
that  in  several  cases  the  medicine  appears  to  have  been  thoroughly  employed  without  the 
least  advantage.  At  the  same  time,  its  possible  inertness  in  these  instances  should  not 
be  lost  sight  of,  and  in  no  case  should  any  of  it  be  used  that  has  not  first  been  tested  upon 
an  animal.  Curare  is  best  administered  hypodermically  in  a filtered  watery  solution  of  the 
strength  of  1 per  cent.,  each  injection  containing  about  Gm.  0.006  (r^  grain).  But  in  a 
remarkable  case  of  cure  (Offenburg,  1877)  about  Gm.  0.02  (-J  grain)  was  administered  as 
often  as  the  spasms  threatened  to  return.  Within  4 hours  seven  injections,  amounting  to  Gm. 
0.19  (2^-  gr.)  were  given  hypodermically  in  a 5 per  cent,  solution  ( Arch . f.  Exp.  Pathol., 
xi.  308).  In  all  cases  it  must  be  repeated  so  as  to  maintain  complete  muscular  relaxation. 
It  has  also  been  used  endermically  and  by  the  rectum.  Curarine  has  been  employed  as  a 
sulphate  in  from  one-twentieth  to  one-tenth  of  the  dose  of  curare,  but  according  to  Sachs 
this  pretended  curarine  is  really  phosphate  of  lime. 

CURCAS. — Purging-Nut. 

Semen  ricini  majoris. — Pliysic-nut,  Barbadoes-nut , E. ; Pignon  d’ Inde.  (des  Barbades ), 
Sentence  du  medicinier,  Fr.  ; Purgirnuss,  Schwarze  Brechnuss , G. 

The  seed  of  Curcas  purgans,  Adanson,  s.  Jatropha  Curcas,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Euphorbiaceae. 

Origin. — A medium-sized  monoecious  shrub  indigenous  to  the  West  Indies  and  South 
America,  but  naturalized  in  other  tropical  countries.  It  has  smooth,  angularly  three-  or 
five-lobed,  cordate  leaves,  paniculate  cymes  of  greenish-yellow  bell-shaped  flowers,  the 
pistillate  ones  few  and  largest,  and  tricoccous,  obtusely  triangular,  and  blackish  capsules, 
each  cell  containing  one  seed. 

Description.  —The  seeds  are  about  2 Cm.  (f  inch)  long,  ovate-oblong,  flattened  from 
the  back,  with  a broad  whitish  hilum  and  caruncle  at  one  end,  black,  not  glossy,  some- 
what rough,  and  marked  with  numerous  small  cracks.  The  kernel  has  the  shape  of  the 
seed,  and  consists  of  an  oily  albumen  which  encloses  the  embryo.  The  seeds  are  inodor- 
ous ; the  kernels  have  a sweetish  and  oily  taste,  which  gradually  becomes  acrid  and 
burning. 


568 


CURCUMA. 


Constituents. — The  principal  constituent  is  the  fixed  oil,  of  which  Arnaudon  and 
Ubaldini  (1858)  obtained  37.5  per  cent.  It  is  light  yellow  or  colorless,  of  spec.  grav. 
0.92,  congealing  to  a butyraceous  mass  at  — 8°  C.  (17.6°  F.),  inodorous,  and  nearly 
insoluble  in  alcohol.  When  distilled  with  potassa,  caprylic  alcohol  is  obtained.  Bouis 
(1854)  separated  a liquid  and  solid  fatty  acid,  and  named  the  latter  isocetic  acid , C15H30O2. 
Cadet  de  Gassicourt  (1824)  found  in  the  seeds  also  an  acrid  resin. 

Allied  Seeds. — Anda  Gomesii,  Jussieu , s.  Anda  brasiliensis,  Raddi , s.  Joannesia  principis, 
Vellozo.  A large  tree  of  Brazil,  known  there  as  anda-assu , bearing  a heart-shaped,  obtusely 
quadrangular  drupe,  the  seeds  with  a white  fleshy  arillus.  The  seeds  resemble  chestnuts,  are 
somewhat  reniform,  dark-brown,  and  of  an  almond-like  taste  ; they  yield  about  50  per  cent,  of  a 
reddish  inodorous  crude  drying  oil,  which  is  an  active  purgative  in  doses  of  10  Gm.,  and  is  more 
limpid  than,  and  free  from  the  mawkish  odor  and  unpleasant  taste  of,  castor  oil.  One  or  two 
seeds  act  as  a violent  cathartic,  often  also  as  an  emetic. 

Curcas  multifidus,  Endlicher , s.  Jatropha  multifida,  Linn6 , is  a South  American  shrub,  the 
seeds  of  which  resemble  the  purging-nut,  but  are  smoother  and  brown.  According  to  Soubeiran, 
the  oil  of  these  seeds  is  very  similar  to,  if  not  identical  with,  that  of  the  latter. 

Euphorbia  lathyris,  Linne , s.  Tithymalus  Lathyris,  Scopoli. — Caper  spurge,  Garden  spurge, 
E.;  Epurge,  Catapuce,  Ft.  ; Wolfsmilch,  Springkraut,  G. — A South  European  herb,  cultivated 
in  gardens  and  somewhat  naturalized  in  North  America,  the  seeds  of  which  wrere  formerly 
officinal  as  semen  cataputice  minoris . They  are  about  3 Mm.  (4  inch)  long,  oval,  obtuse,  on  one 
end  with  the  hilum  and  caruncle,  brown,  marbled  with  gray  and  rugose.  The  oil  separates  a 
crystalline  mass  on  standing. 

Action  and  Uses. — It  is  said  that  the  expressed  oil  of  curcas-seeds  acts  chiefly 
as  a purgative,  and  that  in  the  dose  of  about  12  drops  it  produces  effects  like  those  of 
an  ounce  of  castor  oil.  It  is  more  like  croton  oil  in  its  operation.  The  acrid  emetic 
principle  resides  chiefly  in  the  embryo.  It  is  stated  that  if  the  embryo  is  wholly 
removed,  four  or  five  of  the  seeds  may  be  used  as  a purgative  without  producing  either 
vomiting  or  griping.  A number  of  cases  have  occurred  of  poisoning  by  eating  the  seeds 
entire.  In  one  case  a man  who  had  eaten  five  of  them  soon  complained  of  burning  in 
the  mouth  and  throat,  and  the  whole  abdomen  felt  distended  and  sore.  In  a few  min- 
utes vomiting  occurred,  and  was  repeated  five  times  in  the  course  of  an  hour,  accom- 
panied with  active  purging.  The  pain  continued ; the  patient  complained  of  feeling  hot 
and  giddy  ; he  then  became  delirious,  and  afterward  insensible.  On  regaining  conscious- 
ness several  hours  later  his  face  was  pale,  his  hands  cool,  the  pulse  110  and  weak.  He 
recovered.  In  1854,  at  Birmingham,  Eng.,  more  than  thirty  boys  were  poisoned  by 
eating  these  seeds.  In  some  of  them,  besides  the  symptoms  just  mentioned,  there  was 
a hot  skin  and  an  appearance  of  drowsiness,  which  may,  however,  have  been  due  to 
exhaustion  produced  by  the  evacuations.  They  all  made  good  recoveries.  The  oil 
applied  to  the  skin  irritates  it. 

In  the  East  Indies  the  juice  of  the  plant  and  the  oil  are  said  to  be  used  locally  in  the 
treatment  of  cutaneous  eruptions , rheumatism , and  haemorrhoids , and  in  liniments  to  stim- 
ulate the  secretion  of  milk.  The  freshly-prepared  juice  has  been  used  topically  to  con- 
trol haemorrhages.  The  oil  has  been  employed  internally  in  constipation , dropsy , worms , 
etc.,  and  externally  in  the  diseases  mentioned,  and  also  in  paralysis , pain  in  the  ears, 
deafness , etc.  In  a word,  it  has,  in  a less  degree,  the  qualities  and  medical  virtues  of 
croton  oil,  and  appears  to  be  purgative  in  about  the  same  dose. 

The  uses  of  the  oil  of  Anda  Gomesii  are  stated  under  Oleum  Bicini.  The  oil 
obtained  by  expression  from  Euphorbia  Lathyris , and  the  seeds  themselves,  were  for- 
merly used  in  the  south  of  France  and  in  Italy  as  purgatives.  Five  seeds  caused  vom- 
iting and  diarrhoea  in  one  experiment,  but  ten  were  required  to  produce  a like  effect 
in  another.  The  expressed  oil  acted  purgatively,  and  the  seeds  which  furnished  it 
were  no  longer  purgative  in  the  same  degree  as  at  first  (Husemann,  Torikologie , p. 
447). 

CURCUMA. — Turmeric. 

Rhizoma  curcumse. — Curcuma , Fr.,  Sp. ; Souchet  des  Indes,  Fr. ; Kurkuma,  Gelb- 
wurz , G. 

The  rhizoma  of  Curcuma  longa,  LinnS,  s.  Amomurn  Curcuma,  Jacquin,  s.  Curcuma 
rotunda,  Linne.  Woodville,  Med.  Bot .,  252 ; Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 267. 

Nat.  Ord. — Scitamineae. 

Origin. — The  plant  yielding  turmeric  is  a perennial  indigenous  to  India,  and  is  exten- 
sively cultivated  throughout  Southern  Asia  and  in  many  islands  of  the  Indian  Ocean. 
It  produces  a tuft  of  radical  leaves,  which  are  about  90  Cm.  (3  feet)  long,  and  have  a 


CURCUMA. 


569 


prominent  midrib  ; the  scape  bears  a few  sheathing  bracts  below,  and  terminates  with  a 
spike  of  15  Cm.  (6  inches),  bearing  orange-colored  flowers  in  pairs  from  the  axils  of 
spreading  bracts.  The  United  States  import  annually  about  1,000,000  pounds  of  tur- 
meric. 


Description. — The  central  portion  of  the  rhizome  of  the  different  species  of  cur- 
cuma is  tuberous,  and  sends  out  nearly  cylindrical  branches,  some  of  which  become 


Ftg.  90. 


Round  Turmeric. 


Fig  91. 


Long  Turmeric. 


fusiformly  thickened  toward  their  ends, 
and  then  contain  a very  pure  starch. 
Aside  from  these  spindle-shaped,  amyl- 
aceous tubers,  the  subterraneous  stem 
is  of  two  forms,  and  the  commercial 
turmeric  must  vary  as  one  or  the  other 
or  both  forms  are  collected,  which  were 
formerly  supposed  to  have  been  pro- 
duced by  two  distinct  species. 

Fig.  92. 


Curcuma : transverse  section,  magnified  3 diam. 


Curcuma  rotunda,  or  round  turmeric,  attains  a length  of  38  to  50  Mm.  (11  to  2 inches) 
with  a diameter  of  25  Mm.  (1  inch)  or  more ; it  varies  in  shape  between  globular, 
oblong,  and  pyriform,  has  annular  marks  from  the  scars  of  the  leaf-sheaths,  and  is 
beset  with  root-scars,  and  a few  fibres  or  their  remnants.  Curcuma  longa,  or  long  tur- 
meric, is  25  to  50  Mm.  long  (1  to  2 inches),  6 to  12  Mm.  (i  to  1 inch)  thick,  straight  or 
curved,  mostly  simple,  nearly  cylindrical,  and  somewhat  annulated  b}r  the  leaf-scars.  The 
two  varieties  are  externally  covered  with  a yellowish-gray,  soft,  and  friable  corky  layer, 
and  break  with  a short  and  smooth  fracture  of  a horny  or  resinous  lustre.  The  interior 
is  of  a gamboge-  to  brown-yellow  color,  the  centre  usually  of  a deeper  tint,  and  separated 
from  the  outer  portion  by  a circular  line,  indicating  the  nucleus-sheath.  The  fibro-vas- 
cular  bundles  are  scattered  throughout  the  entire  rhizome,  and  are  more  numerous  near 
the  nucleus-sheath ; the  polyhedric  parenchyma-cells  of  the  cortical  and  inner  layer  con- 
tain starch,  resin,  and  drops  of  volatile  oil.  The  nearly  uniform  color  and  glossy  appear- 
ance of  the  interior  are  due  to  the  scalding  of  the  rhizomes  previous  to  drying,  whereby 
the  starch  has  been  converted  into  a pasty  mass.  The  quality  of  turmeric  is  approxi- 
mately judged  by  the  brightness  of  the  tint  and  the  degree  of  lustre  upon  the  fracture. 
Turmeric  has  a peculiar  aromatic  odor  and  a warm,  aromatic,  and  bitterish  taste. 

The  principal  commercial  varieties  are — Chinese  turmeric , which  consists  of  many 
central  rhizomes  with  well-developed  branches ; Bengal  turmeric , mostly  in  slender 
branches  of  a deep  reddish  tint ; Madras  turmeric , in  thick  lateral  branches,  mixed  with 
transversely-cut  tubers  of  a gamboge  tint ; Java,  turmeric , which  consists  of  rather  small 
tubers  and  branches  that  are  often  transversely  and  longitudinally  cut ; and  Cochin  tur- 
meric, in  sections  or  slices  of  a larger  tuber,  some  being  marked  with  rather  large 
depressed  stem-scars ; they  are  probably  derived  from  another  unknown  species. 

Constituents. — The  investigations  of  Bolley,  Suida,  Lange  (1868),  Gajewsky  (1870, 
1872),  Kachler  (1870),  and  Fliickiger  (1876)  have  been  supplemented  and  partly  modi- 
fied by  C.  L.  Jackson  and  A.  E.  Menke  {Am.  Chem.  Jour.,  1882-83,  iv.).  By  distilla- 
tion with  water  about  1 per  cent,  of  volatile  oil  is  obtained.  Treatment  with  cold  ligroin 
yields  11  per  cent,  of  viscid  oil,  a small  portion  of  which  distils,  under  diminished  pres- 
sure of  60  Mm.,  under  193°  C.,  and  a second  portion,  turmerol , C19H28G,  between  193°  and 
198°  C.  (379°  and  388°  F.),  leaving  a viscous  body.  Turmerol  is  pale-yellow,  agreeably 
aromatic,  dextrogyre,  of  the  density  .9016  at  17°  C.,  and  boils  under  ordinary  pressure  at 
285°— 290°  C.  (545°— 554°  F.),  with  partial  decomposition.  The  curcumol  of  other  chemists 
was  stated  to  have  the  formula  Ci0Hi4O  and  the  boiling-point  245°  C.  (473°  F.). 

The  coloring  matter,  curcumin,  is  best  obtained  pure  after  removing  the  oil  by  exhaust- 
ing the  powder  with  ether  and  recrystallizing  from  alcohol  ; the  yield,  involving  much 
loss,  was  only  0.3  per  cent.  The  yellow  crystals,  C14Hu04,  have  a vanilla-like  odor,  fuse 
at  165°  €.  (329°  F.),  are  readily  soluble  in  alcohol,  chloroform,  and  ether,  very  little  in 


570 


CUSSO. 


cold  benzene  and  benzin,  and  freely  and  with  a red-brown  color  in  alkalies.  Oxidation 
by  potassium  permanganate  or  other  weak  oxidizing  agents  yields  vanillin  (melting-point 
79°  C.) ; by  chromic  acid  the  products  are  carbonic  and  acetic  acids ; and  with  nitric  acid 
oxalic  acid  is  obtained.  The  carmine-colored  potassium  compound  is  insoluble  in  strong 
alcohol  and  ether ; the  zinc  compound  is  soluble  in  water ; the  insoluble  lead  and  silver 
compounds  are  easily  altered.  By  boiling  an  alcoholic  solution  of  curcumin  with  boric 
acid  and  decomposing  the  compound  with  hot  water,  Schomberger  (1866)  obtained 
yellow  pseud o-curcumin,  which  is  not  reddened  by  boric  acid,  and  is  soluble  in  alkalies 
with  a greenish-gray  color.  Boiling  as  before,  but  in  the  presence  of  sulphuric  acid, 
rosocyanin  is  formed,  which  is  crystalline,  insoluble  in  water,  benzene,  and  ether,  and 
soluble  with  a beautiful  red  color  in  alcohol.  Alkalies  color  it  blue  ; the  solution  on 
boiling  turns  blood-red,  then  yellow,  and  now  contains  pseudo-curcumin. 

The  other  constituents  of  turmeric  are  starch,  gum,  resin,  and  others  of  no  medicinal 
importance.  Kachler  (1870)  separated  from  the  infusion  a notable  quantity  of  acid 
potassium  oxalate.  Tincture  of  turmeric  shows  a blue  fluorescence,  due  to  curcumin. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Turmeric  is  employed  for  the  detection  of  alkalies  and 
of  borates.  Paper  saturated  with  the  tincture  is  colored  brown-red  by  alkalies,  the 
yellow  color  being  restored  by  acids.  Soluble  borates  likewise  produce  a brown-red 
color,  which  is  not  altered  on  the  addition  of  dilute  acids.  It  is  occasionally  employed 
for  coloring  pomades  and  ointments,  as  in  the  Unguentum  jlavum  s.  Ung.  althaese  (P.  G. 
1872),  which  is  made  by  digesting  for  half  an  hour  1 part  of  turmeric  with  50  parts 
of  lard,  fusing  together  with  yellow  wax  and  Burgundy  pitch,  each  3 parts,  and  straining. 

Action  and  Uses. — Turmeric  has  no  medicinal  properties  that  require  notice. 
Its  sole  use  is  to  prepare  a test-paper.  In  India  and  China  it  is  employed  as  a con- 
diment. 


CUSSO,  U,  S.,  Br. — Kousso. 

Bray  era,  U.  S.  1880 ; Flores  koso,  P.  G. — Kusso , E. ; 
Cusso,  G. ; Cosso,  It. 


Fig.  93. 


Hagenia  abyssinica,  Gmelin : A,  lowest  branch  of  panicle, 
% size;  B , staminate  flower;  C,  section  of  pistillate 
flower ; raagn.  4 diameters. 


Kousso , Fr. ; Koso , Kusso, 

The  female  inflorescence  (flowers  and 
tops,  Br.')  of  Hagenia  abyssinica,  Gme- 
lin, s.  Banksia  abyssinica,  Bruce,  s.  Bray- 
era  anthelmintica,  Kunth.  Bentley  and 
Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  102. 

Nat.  Ord. — Bosaceae,  Bosese. 

Origin. — This  is  a handsome  tree, 
attaining  a height  of  12  to  18  M.  (40  to 
50  feet)  ; it  produces  an  abundance  of 
large  oddly  pinnate  leaves,  at  the  base 
with  a sheath  formed  by  the  large  adnate 
stipules ; the  inflorescence  is  abundant, 
axillary,  unisexual,  and  paniculate.  The 
tree,  which  flowers  in  October  and  ^No- 
vember, is  indigenous  to  the  table-land 
and  mountainous  districts  of  Abyssinia, 
and  is  generally  planted  near  towns  and 
villages. 

Description. — The  panicles  are  about 
30  Cm.  (12  inches)  long,  much  branched; 
axis  and  branches  zigzag,  hairy,  and 
glandular,  each  branch  supported  by  a 
ciliate  sheathing  bract;  flowers  very  nu- 
merous, 6 to  8 Mm.  (|  to  i inch)  broad, 
each  with  two  large  roundish  membranous- 
veined  bracts  at  the  base,  which  are  green 
in  the  staminate  flowers,  but  become  pur- 
plish-red in  the  pistillate  flowers ; calyx 
shortly  stalked,  top-shaped,  hairy,  and 
with  ten  membranous  and  veined  seg- 
ments arranged  in  two  alternating  whorls. 
The  sepals  of  the  outer  whorl  of  the  male 
flowers  are  greenish-yellow,  small,  and 


cusso. 


571 


nearly  linear ; but  in  the  female  flowers  they  are  finally  about  10  Mm.  (f  inch)  long,  and 
much  larger  than  the  inner  row  of  sepals,  and  when  fully  developed  are  obovate  and  of 
a red  color.  The  five  linear  petals  are  inconspicuous  and  much  shorter  than  the  inner 
sepals,  with  which  they  alternate.  Stamens  between  fifteen  and  thirty,  very  small  and 
shrivelled  in  the  female  flowers,  equalling  the  petals  in  the  male  flowers,  inserted  in  the 
contracted  throat  of  the  calyx.  Carpels  two,  or  occasionally  three,  distinct,  enclosed  in 
the  calyx-tube  ; styles  projecting  from  the  tube  ; fruit  a small  membranous  akene,  pointed 
by  the  persistent  short  base  of  the  style,  and  containing  a straight  fleshy  embryo  with 
two  plano-convex  cotyledons. 

The  female  inflorescence  being  most  frequently  collected,  the  commercial  article  should 
have  a pale  brownish-red  hue,  and  is  often  distinguished  as  red  kousso.  [t  is  collected 
before  the  fruit  has  ripened,  and  either  the  entire  inflorescence  is  dried  loosely,  or  before 
quite  dry  a number  of  pannicles  are  formed  into  cylindrical  rolls,  measuring  about  25  to 
50  Cm.  (10  to  20  inches)  in  length  weighing  about  120  to  240  Gm.  (4  to  8 ounces) 
and  tied  by  split  culms  of  Cyperus  articulatus ; the  loose  panicles  are  usually  much 
broken.  The  male  inflorescence  has  in  the  dry  state  a light  greenish-brown  color,  and  is 
sometimes  known  as  kousso-esels.  The  odor  of  both  varieties  is  not  strong,  but  pleasant 
and  tea-like ; the  taste  is  gradually  developed,  mucilaginous,  bitterish,  acrid,  and  disagree- 
able. 

The  drug  reaches  commerce  mostly  by  way  of  Aden  and  Bombay,  or  partly  through 
Egypt  to  Southern  Europe.  It  should  be  kept  in  a dark  and  dry  place.  “ For  medici- 
nal use  the  drug  should  be  freed  from  the  stalks.” — P.  G. 

Constituents. — According  to  Wittstein  (1840),  kousso  contains  as  principal  con- 
stituents 6.25  per  cent,  of  a bitter  acrid  resin  and  24.4  per  cent,  of  tannin,  consisting  of 
two  kinds ; he  also  obtained  15.71  per  cent,  of  ashes  and  some  tasteless  resin,  besides  the 
common  constituents,  chlorophyll,  wax,  sugar,  and  gum.  The  acrid  resin  appears  to  be 
the  medicinally  active  principle,  and  has  been  variously  called  brayerin , kwosein , koussin , 
and  kosin.  As  prepared  by  Dr.  C.  Bedall  (1872)  by  Pavesi’s  process,  it  was  found  to  be 
an  efficient  tsenifuge.  Kousso  is  repeatedly  treated  with  alcohol  to  which  slaked  lime 
has  been  added ; the  residue  is  boiled  with  water,  the  different  liquids  mixed,  filtered,  and 
distilled,  and  the  remaining  liquid  treated  with  acetic  acid,  which  separates  about  3 per 
cent,  of  koussin  as  a white  flocculent  precipitate,  becoming  denser  and  resin-like,  and  on 
drying  yellowish  or  at  a higher  temperature  brown  ; in  larger  quantities  it  has  a peculiar 
odor  of  Russian  leather,  a persistent  bitter  and  acrid  taste,  and  is  of  a distinct  crystalline 
appearance  when  viewed  under  the  microscope.  Dr.  E.  Merck  has  subsequently  further 
purified  it,  probably  by  crystallizing  it  from  boiling  alcohol.  Fliickiger  and  E.  Bury 
(1874)  describe  it  as  forming  yellow  rhombic  crystals,  which  are  readily  soluble  in  ben- 
zene, carbon  disulphide,  chloroform,  and  ether,  less  freely  in  glacial  acetic  acid,  sparingly 
in  cold  alcohol,  and  are  insoluble  in  water ; alkalies  dissolve  it  readily,  and  acids  pre- 
cipitate it  again  ; it  fuses  at  142°  C.  (287.6°  F.),  and  congeals  to  a transparent  yellow 
mass,  which  when  touched  with  a trace  of  alcohol  is  converted  into  stellate  tufts  of  crys- 
tals ; its  composition  is  C31H38O10,  and  it  is  probably  an  ether  of  isobutyric  acid.  Prof: 
Buchheim  found  this  pure  kosin  to  be  very  inferior  in  its  anthelmintic  action. 

By  distillation  with  water,  kousso  yields  traces  of  valerianic  and  acetic  acids  and  a little 
solid  volatile  oil  having  the  odor  of  the  drug. 

Action  and  Uses. — Cusso  has  been  employed  from  time  immemorial  in  Abyssinia 
for  the  expulsion  of  tape-worms,  which  there  prevail  extensively.  But  it  is  stated  by 
Johnson  that  the  operation  of  it  is  so  severe  that  it  often  produces  miscarriages,  and 
even  death,  in  pregnant  women.  In  Europe  it  is  said  sometimes  to  have  occasioned 
severe  colic,  but  generally  its  operation  is  not  distressing,  and  consists  only  of  slight 
nausea,  followed  by  feculent  and  then  by  liquid  stools.  According  to  Arena,  these 
differences  depend  upon  an  alteration  which  the  resin  undergoes  by  time.  Of  all  the 
remedies  for  tape-worm  (Taenia  solium,  T.  bothriocephalus),  none  is  more  efficient  or 
certain,  provided  that  the  flowers  are  fresh,  but  they  deteriorate  rapidly.  The  parasite 
is  generally  discharged  dead. 

The  Abyssinian  mode  of  using  it  is  thus  described : An  infusion  is  made  with  water 
or  beer,  or  the  flowers  are  mixed  with  honey  to  the  amount  of  from  Gm.  16-24  (^iv-vj), 
and  the  whole  is  taken  in  the  morning,  fasting,  and  no  food  is  eaten  during  the  day. 
Generally,  the  worm  is  discharged  in  the  course  of  twenty-four  hours  without  purging, 
pain,  or  colic.  This  description  by  Aubert  and  by  Engleman  contradicts  the  one  given 
above.  In  Europe  and  in  this  country  an  infusion  is  prepared  with  Gm.  8 (gij)  of  the 
powdered  drug  in  Gm.  128  (f^iv)  of  boiling  water,  which,  when  cold,  is  drunk  without 


572 


CYCLA  MEN. — CYD  ONI  UM. 


having  been  strained.  Kraus  recommends  Gm.  25  (^vj)  in  lemonade  on  an  empty 
stomach,  and  followed  an  hour  later  by  castor  oil.  As  its  taste  and  smell  are  disagree- 
able, resembling  somewhat  those  of  senna  tea.  it  has  been  proposed  to  administer  the 
powder  in  granules  made  with  sugar  and  swallowed  with  some  aromatic  infusion.  The 
following  mode  of  preparing  the  dose  has  been  recommended : Treat  by  displacement 
i ounce  of  cusso  in  powder  with  6 drachms  of  boiling  caster  oil  and  1J  ounces  of  boiling 
water.  Express  the  liquid,  and  make  an  emulsion  with  it  and  the  yelk  of  egg;  add 
40  drops  of  sulphuric  ether,  sweeten,  and  flavor  with  oil  of  anise.  This  emulsion  should 
be  taken,  fasting,  at  one  dose.  In  all  cases  the  patient  should  fast  the  day  before  using 
the  medicine. 


CYCLAMEN.-Cyclamen. 

Sow-bread , E. ; Arthamte , Pain  de  pourceau , Fr.  ; Erdscheibe , Erdbrot , Schweinebrot, 
G.  ; Pan  de  Puerco,  Sp. 

The  tuber  of  Cyclamen  europseum,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Primulaceae. 

Origin. — The  species  grows  in  shady  places  and  rocky  woodlands  of  Southern  Europe, 
and  is  met  with  in  cultivation.  It  has  a few  roundish,  heart-shaped  leaves  of  a dark -green 
color,  marked  with  white  above  and  purplish  beneath,  and  several  stalks,  each  bearing  a 
nodding,  fragrant,  pink-colored  flower,  and  coiling  up  after  flowering  so  as  to  bring  the 
capsule  to  the  ground. 

Description. — The  tuber  is  25  to  50  Mm.  (1  to  2 inches)  thick,  flattish  circular  or 
depressed  globose,  dark-brown  externally,  internally  white,  mealy,  with  a rather  thin 
bark,  and  with  narrow  and  short  fibro-vascular  bundles  arranged  in  irregular  circles.  In 
the  fresh  state  it  has  a burning,  acrid  taste  ; after  drying  this  is  milder. 

The  similar  tubers  of  Cyclamen  hederaefolium,  Alton , and  C.  persicum,  Miller  (s.  C. 
latifolium,  Sibthorp ),  which  are  indigenous  to  Southern  Europe  and  the  Levant,  have 
similar  properties ; these  plants  are  also  cultivated  for  ornament. 

The  pyriform  or  spindle-shaped  tubers  of  Lathyrus  tuberosus,  Linne , which  are  of  the 
size  of  a walnut,  are  said  to  be  occasionally  substituted  for  those  of  cyclamen ; they  have 
a mucilaginous  taste. 

Constituents. — Aside  from  starch,  gum,  pectin,  and  other  common  principles,  Sala- 
din  (1830)  isolated  cyclamin  or  arthanitin , C2oH24Oio.  It  is  white,  amorphous  or  in 
minute  crystals,  of  a bitter  and  acrid  taste,  soluble  in  carbon  disulphide,  chloroform, 
alcohol,  and  in  water,  and  insoluble  in  ether  and  fixed  and  volatile  oils.  Its  aqueous 
solution  foams  like  soap-water,  is  precipitated  by  tannin,  and  when  boiled  with  dilute 
acids  yields  glucose  and  resinous  cyclamiretin. 

Action  and  Uses. — Experiments  made  by  Claude  Bernard  led  him  to  the  conclu- 
sion that  cyclamin  resembles  curarin  in  its  action  ; Schroff  compared  it  rather  with 
smilacin,  senegin,  and  saponin.  Cyclamen-root  loses  much  of  its  acrimony  by  keeping, 
and  has  been  recommended  under  such  circumstances  as  a purgative  in  the  dose  of 
Gm.  0.60  (gr.  x)  triturated  with  powdered  gum.  On  the  other  hand,  the  fresh  root  has 
sometimes  occasioned  alarming  effects.  Bulliard  states  that  “ in  the  north  of  France, 
where  it  is  much  used  as  a purgative,  it  often  produces  violent  vomiting,  followed  by 
cold  sweats,  vertigo,  ringing  in  the  ears,  and  gyratory  or  convulsive  movements;  often 
blood  is  ejected  by  vomiting  or  purging,  and  sometimes  there  is  even  fatal  hypercathar- 
sis.” Formerly  it  entered,  with  other  drastic  purgatives,  into  a liniment  which  caused 
purgation  when  applied  to  the  abdomen  in  cases  of  worm. s and  of  dropsy.  Externally, 
the  fresh  tuber  has  been  proposed  as  a stimulating  cataplasm  for  carbuncles , abscesses, 
enlarged  glands,  etc.  Dose,  Gm.  0.30  (gr.  v).  A decoction  is  prepared  with  Gm.  4-12 
(3j-iij)  in  Gm.  500  (a  pint)  of  water. 

OYDONIUM. — Cydonium. 

Semen  cydonise. — Quince-seed,  E.  ; Semences  ( Pepins ) decoing,  Fr.;  Quittensamen,  Quit- 
tenherne,  G.  ; Membrillo , Sp. 

The  seed  of  Cydonia  vulgaris,  Per  soon,  s.  Cyd.  europaea,  Sam,  s.  Pyrus  Cydonia,  Linne, 
s.  Sorbus  Cydonia,  Crantz.  Woodville,  Med.  Pot.,  182  ; Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants, 
106. 

Nat.  Ord. — Bosaceae,  Pomeae. 

Origin. — The  quince  tree,  which  attains  a height  of  6 M.  (20  feet)  or  remains 


CYPRIPEDIUM. 


573 


shrubby,  is  probably  indigenous  to  Asia  Minor  and  Persia,  but  was  anciently  cultivated, 
and  is  now  naturalized,  in  the  Mediterranean  basin,  and  cul- 
tivated in  the  temperate  parts  of  Asia,  Africa,  Europe,  and 
America.  It  has  shortly  petiolate,  entire,  ovate  orobovate 
leaves,  which  are  woolly  beneath ; ovate,  glandular,  and 
denticulate  stipules  ; handsome,  pale  rose-colored  flowers  ; 
and  a pyriform  or  subglobular  golden-yellow  fragrant 
fruit,  with  five  cells,  each  containing  about  twelve  closely- 
packed  seeds. 

Description. — The  seeds  are  6 to  10  Mm.  (-J-  or  f 
inch  long,  of  an  oblong  or  oval  shape,  but  flattened  and 
three-sided  by  mutual  pressure ; the  somewhat  pointed 
hilum  at  the  narrow  end  is  connected  by  the  ridge-like 
raphe  along  the  sharper  edge  with  the  chalaza  at  the 
other  slightly-beaked  end.  The  testa  is  of  a 
Fig.  94.  brown  color,  covered  with  a mucilaginous  epithe- 
lium,  by  which  the  seeds  of  one  cell  are  united 

(SI  into  a mass.  The  embryo  is  of  the  size  and 

||r  shape  of  the  seed,  consists  of  two  plano-convex 

oily  cotyledons,  with  a thick  straight  radicle 
pointing  toward  the  hilum,  and  possesses  the 
taste  of  bitter  almonds.  The  unbroken  seeds 
andsectfon. are  mucilaginous.  The  mucilage  is  contained 
in  the  epithelial  cells,  which  form  the  grayish 
or  whitish  covering  of  the  seed,  and  when  immersed  in  water  swell  up  considerably, 
forming  a thick  jelly-like  mass  with  40  parts  of  water  to  1 of  seeds. 

Constituents. — Quince-seeds  yield  about  20  per  cent,  of  dry  mucilage,  which  has 
the  composition  C12H20O10  and  contains  some  calcium  salts  and  albumen.  Treated  with 
nitric  acid,  it  yields  oxalic  acid.  The  mucilage  has  little  adhesive  power,  is  not  affected 
by  solution  of  borax,  and  is  precipitated  by  alcohol  and  by  metallic  salts. 

Allied  Plant. — Cydonia  (Pyrus,  Thunberg ) japonica,  Persoon.  This  frequently-cultivated 
ornamental  shrub  is  smooth  throughout,  has  oval  serrate  leaves  and  bright-red  flowers,  and  bears 
globular  fruits  of  an  aromatic  acidulous  taste. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  pulp,  and  especially  the  rind,  of  the  fruit  have  a certain 
astringency,  which  has  caused  them  to  be  used  in  cases  of  mucous  profluvia  and  passive 
haemorrhages , but  particularly  in  leucorrhcea  and  uterine  haemorrhage,  and  also  in  diarrhoea. 
They  are  rather  domestic  than  officinal  medicines. 

CYPRIPEDIUM,  U.  Cypripedium. 

Rhizoma  cypripedii. — Ladies'  -slipper  root , E. ; Racine  de  cypripede  jaune , Valeriane 
americaine , Fr.  ; Gelbfrauenschuh-Wurzel , Gr. 

The  rhizome  and  rootlets  of  Cypripedium  pubescens,  Swartz , and  of  Cypripedium 
parviflorum,  Salisbury. 

Nat.  Ord. — Orchidaceae. 

Origin. — These  herbaceous  plants  are  indigenous  to  Canada,  and  to  the  United  States 
as  far  south  as  North  Carolina ; they  grow  in  low  woodlands  and  boggy  localities  and 
flower  in  May  and  June.  The  two  plants  are  distinguished  from  each  other  by  their 
size,  Cypr.  pubescens  being  the  taller,  growing  about  60  Cm.  (2  feet)  high,  and  by  their 
flowers,  which  in  the  species  named  have  lanceolate  sepals  and  a laterally-flattened  lip 
which  is  arched  above,  while  the  flowers  of  Cypr.  parviflorum  are  smaller,  with  lance- 
ovate  sepals  and  the  lip  flattened  from  above.  In  both  species  the  lip  of  the  yellow 
flowers  forms  an  inflated  obtuse  sac  which  is  likened  to  a slipper. 

Description. — The  rhizomes  are  horizontal,  bent  up  and  down,  nearly  cylindrical, 
about  3 to  5 Mm.  (i  to  J inch)  in  diameter,  nearly  10  Cm.  (4  inches)  long,  above  beset 
with  broad,  circular  cup-shaped  scars  of  the  overground  stems,  the  more  recent  ones  with 
fibrous  tufts  of  ligneous  tissue  ; the  numerous  simple  rootlets  are  mainly  attached  on  the 
lower  half  of  the  rhizome,  attain  a length  of  15  to  20,  occasionally  even  45  or  50,  Cm. 
(6  to  8,  even  18  or  20  inches).  The  rhizomes  and  rootlets  of  Cypr.  parviflorum  are 
rather  slender  and  shorter,  and  after  drying  of  an  orange-brown  color,  while  the  coarser 
parts  of  Cypr.  pubescens  dry  of  a black-brown.  Both  are  brittle  and  break  with  a short 


Fig.  95. 


Quince-seed  : section  through  epi- 
thelium, testa,  tegmen,  and  por- 
tion of  cotyledon  ; magnif.  150 
diam. 


574 


DAMIANA. 


fracture,  which  is  white  with  scattered  wood-bundles,  have  a peculiar  slight  but  heavy 
odor,  and  a sweetish,  bitter,  and  pungent  taste. 

The  rhizome  of  Hydrastis  canadensis  is  not  unfrequently  mixed  with  the  commercial 


Fig.  96.  Fig.  97. 


Cypripedium  pubeseeus.  Cypripedium  parviflorum. 

Portion  of  rhizome  and  rootlets,  natural  size. 


cypripedium  ; it  is  readily  distinguished  by  its  different  shape,  its  yellowish-gray  color 
externally,  and  by  its  transverse  section,  which  is  bright-yellow  and  shows  a circular 
arrangement  of  the  wood-wedges. 

Constituents. — Cypripedium  was  analyzed  by  H.  C.  Blair  (1866),  who  found  a 
minute  quantity  of  volatile  oil,  a volatile  acid,  two  resins,  tannin,  starch,  etc.  The 
rhizomes  of  both  species  deserve  to  be  again  carefully  analyzed. 

Action  and  Uses. — Cypripedium  was  among  the  medicinal  plants  used  by  the 
aborigines  of  this  country,  and  subsequently  it  was  resorted  to  by  the  country-people 
for  the  relief  of  nervous  affections,  such  as  chorea  and  hysteria.  It  is  one  of  the 
numberless  agents  said  to  cure  epilepsy.  In  its  action  and  uses  it  is  generally  supposed 
to  resemble  valerian.  The  dose  is  stated  to  be  Gm.  1 (gr.  xv)  of  the  powdered  root,  or 
the  equivalent  of  that  quantity  in  tincture  or  infusion,  three  times  a day.  The  oleoresin 
precipitated  from  the  tincture  by  water  may  be  prescribed  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.06  (gr.  j). 


D AMI  AN  A . — Damiana  . 

Origin  and  Description. — Since  1874  the  leaves  of  two  or  three  Mexican  plants 
have  appeared  in  commerce  under  the  above  name,  attention  to  the  difference  being  called 
by  Wellcome  (1875).  According  to  E.  M.  Holmes  (1876),  they  come  from  the  following 
species : 

Turnera  microphylla,  Be  Candolle  (Fig.  98).  Nat.  Ord.  Turneraceae.  This  species  is 
common  in  Western  Mexico  and  Lower  California,  and  is  found  also  in  Starr  Co.,  Texas. 

The  leaves  are  alternate,  obovate,  entire  at  the  base, 
and  above  on  each  side  with  three  or  four  teeth,  light- 
green,  rather  rough,  and  nearly  smooth,  or  along  the 
midrib  covered  with  short,  whitish  hairs.  They  readily 
fall  off  the  much-branched  stems,  which,  if  present, 
have  some  resemblance  to  broom-tops.  The  calyx  of 
the  flowers  has  five  three-nerved  lobes,  and  bears  in  the 
throat  five  yellow  obovate  petals  and  five  stamens ; the 
ovary  has  three  styles,  and  ripens  to  a globular  or  oval 
one-celled  and  many-seeded  capsule.  The  leaves  have 
an  aromatic  taste,  suggesting  that  of  confection  of 
senna.  Leaves  of  the  shape  seen  in  Fig.  97  belong 
either  to  a variety  of  the  same  or  to  a closely-allied 
species.  They  are  usually  of  a darker  green,  smooth,  and  have  a somewhat  mint-like 
flavor.  Turnera  aphrodisiaca,  Ward,  is  the  name  given  to  the  plant,  in  allusion  to  its 
asserted  properties.  Turnera  diffusa,  Ward , has  rather  shorter  leaves,  which  are  finely 
hairy  above  and  tomentose  beneath. 

Aplopappus  (Haplopappus)  discoideus,  De  Candolle.  Nat.  Ord.  Composite.  The 
leaves  are  lanceolate  above,  with  about  three  sharp  teeth  on  each  side,  the  lower  half 
entire,  rather  coriaceous,  roughish  on  the  surface,  light-green,  with  occasional  black  dots, 
and  with  minute  resin-like  granules  or  scales.  The  flowers,  which  are  usually  present, 
have  an  imbricated  involucre,  yellow  florets,  and  a white  hairy  pappus.  The  drug  has  a 
distinct  balsamic  odor  and  taste.  Dr.  Rothrock  (1876)  gives  the  following  synonyms 
for  this  plant:  Linosyris  mexicana,  Schlechtendal ; Baccharis  veneta,  Kunth ; and  Bige- 
lovia  veneta,  Gray. 


DECOCTA. 


The  two  genera  mentioned  above  belong  to  Western  North  America  and  parts  of  South 
America.  A species  of  Turnera,  T.  ulmifolia,  Linne , grows  in  the  West  Indies,  where  its 
aromatic  leaves  and  flowers  have  been  used  for  their  tonic  properties. 

Constituents. — Turnera  damiana  yielded  to  H.  B.  Parsons  8 per  cent,  of  volatile 
oil,  with  soft  resin  and  chlorophyll,  7 per  cent,  of  a bitter  substance,  6.4  per  cent,  of  hard 
resin,  and  3.5  per  cent,  of  tannin,  the  remainder  being  sugar,  gum,  albuminoids,  etc.,  with 
8.4  per  cent,  of  ash.  In  making  a fluid  extract  of  the  Aplopappus  damiana,  and  using 
76  per  cent,  alcohol,  crystals  of  potassium  chloride  were  obtained  by  Prof.  Wayne 
(1876). 

Action  and  Uses.  —Damiana  appears  to  have  stimulant,  tonic,  and  laxative  prop- 
erties, and  has  been  supposed  by  the  inhabitants  of  Western  Mexico  to  be  a specific 
stimulant  of  the  pelvic  organs.  In  support  of  this  statement  it  has  been  affirmed  that 
the  use  of  damiana  occasions  haemorrhoids.  It  has  been  widely  and  shamelessly  adver- 
tised as  a remedy  for  sexual  impotence  or  indifference  in  either  sex,  but  there  is  not  the 
slightest  reason  for  confiding  in  this  statement  of  its  virtues.  Still  less  can  it  be  credited 
with  the  restoration  of  an  atrophied  testis  to  its  normal  size  and  function,  which  has 
been  set  to  its  account.  It  is  best  administered  in  a fluid  extract,  of  which  the  average 
dose  is  Gm.  2 (f^ss). 


DECOCTA,  U.  S.,  P.  G. 

Decoctions , E ; Decodes , Tisanes  par  decoctions , Fr. ; Abkochungen , G. ; Decotti , It. 

When  the  active  principles  of  vegetable  drugs  are  exhausted  by  boiling  with  water 
decoctions  are  obtained.  Such  preparations  are  obviously  not  adapted  to  drugs  the 
activity  of  which  depends  upon  principles  of  a resinous  nature  which  are  insoluble  in 
water,  nor  to  such  as  contain  volatile  oils  or  other  volatile  substances  which  would  be 
dissipated  with  the  vapor  of  water,  and  should  be  restricted  to  those  drugs  the  active 
constituents  of  which  cannot  be  extracted  by  water  below  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  Formerly, 
decoctions  were  usually  made  by  using  a large  quantity  of  water  and  boiling  it  down  to 
one-half  or  even  to  a less  amount.  No  obvious  advantage  was  gained  by  this  method, 
and  in  many  instances  it  proved  to  be  decidedly  disadvantageous,  owing  to  the  alteration 
and  darkening  of  the  extractive  matters,  and  in  some  cases  to  changing  the  nature  of  the 
active  principles.  The  pharmacopoeias  have  very  properly,  in  nearly  all  cases,  reduced 
the  time  of  boiling  to  10  or  15  minutes,  the  general  directions  given  by  the  present  U. 
S.  P.  being  as  follows : “An  ordinary  decoction,  the  strength  of  which  is  not  directed  by 
the  physician  nor  specified  by  the  pharmacopoeia  shall  be  prepared  by  the  following  for- 
mula : Take  of  the  substance,  coarsely  comminuted,  50  Gm. ; water  a sufficient  quantity, 
to  make  1000  Cc.  Put  the  substance  into  a suitable  vessel  provided  with  a cover,  pour 
upon  it  1000  Cc.  of  cold  water,  cover  it  well,  and  boil  for  fifteen  minutes ; then  let  it  cool 
to  about  40°  C.  (104°  F.)  strain  the  liquid,  and  pass  through  the  strainer  enough  cold 
water  to  make  the  product  measure  1000  Cc.  This  represents  about  23  grains  of  drug 
in  each  fluidounce.  Caution. — The  strength  of  decoctions  of  energetic  or  powerful  sub- 
stances should  be  specially  prescribed  by  the  physician. 

By  following  the  directions  of  the  P.  G.,  to  keep  the  mixture  of  drug  and  cold  water 
for  half  an  hour  in  a bath  of  steam  arising  from  boiling  water,  the  time  is  practically 
still  more  reduced ; the  proportion  of  very  mucilaginous  drugs  to  be  used  in  a decoction 
is  left  to  the  dispenser ; but  the  physician  is  required  to  state  the  quantity  of  such  drugs 
for  which  a maximum  dose  is  given  by  the  pharmacopoeia  ; other  drugs  may  be  used  in 
the  proportion  of  1 part  for  10  parts  of  decoction. 

The  use  of  cold  water  to  begin  with  ensures  the  complete  exhaustion  from  the  drug 
of  all  its  soluble  principles  by  the  gradually-heated  water,  the  albuminous  principles 
being  subsequently  coagulated  as  the  heat  is  increased  to  near  the  boiling-point.  If,  on 
the  other  hand,  the  drug  be  at  once  immersed  in  boiling  water,  the  albumen  contained  in 
cells  would  be  coagulated,  and  thus  seriously  interfere  with  the  extraction  of  the  other 
principles.  In  preparing  compound  decoctions  all  the  drugs  may  be  added  to  the  cold 
water,  with  the  exception  of  those  which,  like  senna,  are  injured  by  long-continued  heat 
or  which  contain  aromatic  or  other  volatile  principles.  Such  should  be  added  when  the 
decoction  is  ready  to  be  removed  from  the  fire  or  steam-bath,  and  allowed  to  digest  until 
it  is  sufficiently  cooled  for  straining.  The  material  should  in  all  cases  be  cut  or  bruised, 
the  degree  of  fineness  depending  upon  the  nature  of  its  tissue.  Woody  drugs  may  be 


576 


DECOCTUM  ALOES  COMPOSITE M. -DECOCTUM  CETRARIJE. 


reduced  to  a moderately  fine  powder ; leaves,  however,  and  other  drugs  consisting  mainly 
of  loose  parenchyma,  are  better  used  in  the  form  of  a moderately  coarse  or  very  coarse 
powder. 

Unless  the  liquid  is  to  be  considerably  boiled  down,  decoctions  are  best  prepared  in  a 
vessel  provided  with  a cover  which  may  be  loosely  put  on  until  the  boiling  is  completed, 
when  the  vessel  should  be  well  closed,  particularly  if  additions  have  been  made  at  the 
close  of  boiling.  Porcelain  is  undoubtedly  the  best  material  for  vessels  used  for  prepar- 
ing decoctions,  since  it  is  not  acted  upon  by  the  various  vegetable  principles ; for  similar 
reasons  glass  flasks  will  answer  a useful  purpose  in  making  small  quantities  of  these 
preparations.  As  a rule,  it  is  best  to  avoid  metallic  vessels,  except  when  made  of  block- 
tin  and  used  in  connection  with  a steam-bath.  As  many  drugs  contain  tannin,  vessels 
made  of  iron  are  not  adapted  for  preparing  their  decoctions,  and  the  usually  imperfect 
covering  of  galvanized  (or  zinc)  or  tinned  sheet  iron  renders  the  vessels  lined  with  such 
material  but  little  better  suited  for  this  purpose,  and  still  inferior  to  properly-enamelled 
iron  vessels. 

As  a rule,  decoctions  should  be  allowed  to  cool  to  below  50°  C.  (122°  F.)  before  they 
are  strained ; principles  which  are  soluble  only  in  hot  water  are  then  mostly  precipitated, 
and  removed  without,  in  most  cases,  weakening  the  medicinal  effects  of  the  preparations. 
But  even  with  this  precaution  the  strained  liquid  may  become  unsightly  in  appearance 
by  the  further  deposition,  on  cooling,  of  apotheme  or  matter  soluble  only  in  hot  water. 
In  such  cases  the  pharmacist  should  be  guided  by  the  directions  of  the  pharmacopoeia  or 
by  the  intentions  of  the  physician,  and  not  sacrifice  effect  to  elegance.  With  some 
exceptions,  decoctions  which  were  formerly  made  at  the  house  of  the  patient  have  grad- 
ually fallen  into  disuse  through  the  introduction  of  fluid  extracts  and  similar  permanent 
preparations,  by  which  the  medicinal  properties  can  be  preserved  unaltered  for  months,  or 
even  years,  while  decoctions  cannot  be  depended  upon  for  more  than  one  or,  at  the 
utmost,  a few  days. 

DECOCTUM  ALOES  COMPOSITUM,  Br  — Compound  Decoction  of 

Aloes. 

Tisane  ( Decode ) d'  aloes  composee,  Fr. ; Zusammengesetztes  Aloedecoct , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Extract  of  Socotrine  Aloes  J ounce;  Myrrh,  Saffron,  Potas- 
sium Carbonate,  of  each  i ounce  ; Extract  of  Liquorice  2 ounces  ; Compound  Tincture  of 
Cardamoms  15  fluidounces  ; Distilled  Water  a sufficiency  for  50  fluidounces.  Reduce  the 
extract  of  aloes  and  myrrh  to  coarse  powder,  and  put  them  together  with  the  potassium 
carbonate  and  extract  of  licorice,  into  a suitahle  covered  vessel  with  a pint  of  distilled 
water  ; boil  gently  for  five  minutes,  then  add  the  saffron.  Let  the  vessel  with  its  con- 
tents cool,  then  add  the  tincture  of  cardamoms,  and,  covering  the  vessel  closely,  allow  the 
ingredients  to  macerate  for  two  hours  ; finally,  strain  through  flannel,  pouring  as  much 
distilled  water  over  the  contents  of  the  strainer  as  will  make  the  strained  product  meas- 
ure 50  fluidounces. — Br. 

The  alkali  carbonate  is  added  for  the  purpose  of  aiding  the  solution  of  the  resinous 
principles  of  aloes  and  myrrh;  the  tincture  of  cardamom,  saffron,  and  licorice  act  as  cor- 
rectives, the  latter  serving  more  especially  for  partially  covering  the  nauseous  taste  of 
the  aloes.  The  air  should  be  excluded  from  this  preparation  as  far  as  possible. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  active  agents  in  this  preparation  are  essentially  the  same 
as  in  the  tincture  of  aloes  and  myrrh.  It  is  a useful  purgative  in  numerous  cases 
for  which  the  alcoholic  preparation  just  named  would  be  too  stimulating;  and  it  is 
probable  that  the  permanent  solution  of  its  ingredients  renders  its  purgative  operation 
milder — an  effect  which  is  enhanced  by  the  liquorice  and  cardamom  it  contains.  It  is  an 
appropriate  medicine  when  purgation  is  indicated  in  amenorrhcea  due  to  an  atonic  state 
of  the  system,  or  simply  in  constipation  with  a tendency  to  hsemorrhoidal  engorgement. 
Like  the  tincture,  it  is  much  less  used  than  the  corresponding  pill  ( Pilula  aloes  et  myrrhse), 
but  it  may  be  prescribed  in  doses  of  dm.  15-60  (f^ss-ij). 

DECOCTUM  CETRARIJE,  U.  S.,  Br.  Decoction  of  Cetraria. 

Decoction  of  Iceland  moss,  E. ; Tisane  ( Decode ) de  lichen  d'Islande,  Fr. ; Isldndisch-Moos- 
Ahsud  ( Decoct ),  G. 

Preparation. — Cetraria  50  Gm. ; Water  a sufficient  quantity  to  make  1000  Cc. 


DECOCT UM  CIX CH ONjE. — DECO CT UM  IEEMATOXYLI. 


on 

Cover  the  cetraria,  in  a suitable  vessel,  with  400  Cc.  of  cold  water ; express  after  half  an 
hour,  and  throw  away  the  liquid.  Then  boil  the  cetraria  with  1000  Cc.  of  water  for  half 
an  hour,  strain,  add  enough  cold  water,  through  the  strainer,  to  make  the  product  meas- 
ure 1000  Cc. — U.  S.‘ 

Decoction  of  cetraria,  of  official  strength,  may  also  be  prepared  by  macerating  365 
grains  of  cetraria  with  6 ounces  of  cold  water  for  half  an  hour,  expressing  and  boiling 
the  cetraria  with  1 pint  of  water  as  directed  above. 

The  maceration  with  cold  water  is  intended  to  remove  at  least  a portion  of  the  bitter 
principle  present ; this  treatment  is  denounced  by  many. 

The  decoction  of  the  Br.  P.  is  identical  with  this,  1 ounce  av.  of  Iceland  moss  being 
used  for  1 Imperial  pint  of  decoction  ; the  boiling  is  continued  for  ten  minutes  only,  which 
is  ample  for  the  purpose.  The  tisane  of  the  Fr.  Cod.  is  made  in  the  proportion  of  1 to 
1000. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  is  the  best  form  for  administering  Iceland  moss.  It 
retains  the  bitter  principle  as  well  as  the  demulcent  elements  of  the  moss,  and  it  is  on 
the  former  that  the  therapeutical  qualities  of  that  substance  chiefly  depend.  It  should 
be  taken  in  doses  of  from  Grin.  60-130  (f^ij-iv)  three  or  four  times  a day. 

DECOCTUM  CINCHONA,  Br.— Decoction  of  Cinchona. 

Decoctum  de  cinchona,  Decoctum  chinse. — Thane  ( Decode ) de  quinquina  rouge , Fr. ; 
Chinaabsud , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Bed  Cinchona  Bark,  in  No.  20  powder,  II  ounces;  Dis- 
tilled Water  1 pint.  Boil  for  10  minutes  in  a covered  vessel.  Strain  the  decoction 
when  cold,  and  pour  as  much  distilled  water  over  the  contents  of  the  strainer  as  will 
make  the  strained  product  measure  1 pint  (Imperial). — Br. 

If  strained  while  hot,  a turbid  preparation  is  obtained  from  the  deposition,  after  cool- 
ing, of  cinchonic  red  and  cinchotannate  of  the  alkaloids ; these  insoluble  compounds  are 
removed  by  straining  when  cold.  The  whole  of  the  alkaloids  may  be  kept  in  solution  by 
the  addition  of  some  acid. 

Action  and  Uses. — Dose,  Gm.  60  (f  gij).  to  be  repeated  every  two,  three,  or  four 
hours  in  acute  diseases,  and  three  times  a day  before  meals  as  a tonic. 


DECOCTUM  GRANATI  RADICIS,  Br.— Decoction  of  Pomegranate- 

Root. 

Decoctum  corticis  radicis  granati. — Tisane  {Decode)  d'ecorce  de  la  racine  de  grenadier , 
Fr. ; Granaf-Wurzel-Rinden-Absud,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Pomegranate-Root  Bark,  sliced,  2 ounces ; Distilled  Water 
2 pints.  Boil  down  to  a pint  and  strain,  making  the  strained  product  up  to  a pint 
(Imperial),  if  necessary,  by  pouring  distilled  water  over  the  contents  of  the  strainer. 
—Br. 

The  tissue  of  the  bark  is  not  firm  enough  to  require  so  long-continued  a boiling. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  decoction  may  be  used  for  all  the  purposes  to  which 
vegetable  astringents  of  moderate  power  are  applied,  such  as  passive  haemorrhages  and 
mucous  and  serous  profluvia,  as  a wash  for  open  sores  accompanied  with  a profuse  dis- 
charge, for  relaxed  states  of  the  mouth,  vagina,  rectum,  etc.  It  is,  however,  most  useful 
as  a taeniafuge.  (For  the  mode  of  employing  it  see  Granati  Radicis  Cortex.) 

DECOCTUM  HiEMATOXYLI,  Br. — Decoction  of  Logwood. 

Tisane  ( Decode ) de  bois  de  Campeche , Fr. ; Blauholz-A bsud,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Logwood,  in  chips.  1 ounce;  Cinnamon-Bark,  in  coarse 
powder.  55  grains;  Distilled  Water  1 pint.  Boil  the  logwood  in  the  water  for  10 minutes 
in  a covered  vessel,  adding  the  cinnamon  toward  the  end.  Strain  the  decoction,  and  pour 
as  much  distilled  water  over  the  contents  of  the  strainer  as  will  make  the  strained  product 
measure  a pint  (Imperial). — Br. 

A longer-continued  boiling  of  logwood  in  chips  would  improve  the  result  of  this 
formula. 

37 


578 


DECOCTUM  HORDE!.— DECO CT UM  QUERCUS. 


Action  and  Uses. —Although  this  decoction  may  be  used  for  most  of  the  dis- 
orders for  which  vegetable  astringents  are  indicated,  it  is  chiefly  employed  internally  for 
the  relief  of  diarrhoea,  but  much  less  so  than  the  cognate  medicines.  Its  mildness 
adapts  it  to  the  treatment  of  infantile  diarrhoea.  The  dose  for  an  adult  is  about  Gin. 
60  (f^ij)  5 for  infants  and  children,  Gm.  4-8  (faj-ij). 

DEOOOTUM  HORDEI,  Br. — Decoction  of  Babley. 

Barley-water , E. ; Tisane  ( Ean ) d'orge  perle,  Fr. ; G erstenschleim , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Pearl  Barley  2 ounces;  Distilled  Water  II  pints  (30 
ounces).  Wash  the  barley  in  cold  water,  and  reject  the  washings;  boil  the  washed 
barley  with  the  distilled  water  for  20  minutes  in  a covered  vessel,  and  strain. — Br. 

The  washing  of  the  barley  with  cold  water  is  intended  for  the  removal  of  extraneous 
matters  and  of  any  unpleasant  odor  and  taste.  Mustiness  is  still  better  removed  by 
washing  with  hot  water,  or  by  boiling  the  barley  with  the  water  for  1 or  2 minutes  and 
throwing  this  liquid  away.  By  this  time  the  barley  will  be  considerably  swollen,  and  the 
decoction,  when  completed,  will  be  mucilaginous,  and  measure  about  20  fluidounces. 

Action  and  Uses.  — Barley-water,  the  most  ancient  of  fever-drinks,  continues  to  be 
the  most  generally  employed.  Highly  nutritious,  extremely  digestible,  unirritating, 
tending  to  promote  the  intestinal  and  urinary  secretions,  and  soothing  irritation  in  the 
throat  and  air-passages , barley  seems  better  adapted  to  these  purposes  than  rice  or  any 
other  cereal.  According  to  the  state  of  the  patient  the  decoction  may  be  rendered  more 
or  less  nutritious  by  longer  or  shorter  boiling.  If  no  contraindication  exists,  it  should 
be  sweetened  and  flavored  with  the  juice  of  lemon  or  other  acidulous  fruit. 

DECOCTUM  PAPAVERIS,  Br. — Decoction  of  Poppies. 

Tisane  de  pavot,  Fr.  ; Mohnkapseln-Ahsud , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Poppy-Capsules,  bruised,  2 ounces;  Distilled  Water  II 
pints.  Boil  for  10  minutes  in  a covered  vessel,  then  strain,  and  pour  as  much  distilled 
water  over  the  contents  of  the  strainer  as  will  make  the  strained  product  measure  a pint 
(Imperial). — Br. 

The  Pharmacopoeia  does  not  direct  the  removal  of  the  seeds,  the  oil  of  which  will  to 
some  extent  remain  suspended  in  the  mucilaginous  liquid. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  preparation  possesses  slight  anodyne  virtues,  and  is  also 
emollient  in  consequence  of  the  oil  and  mucilage  it  contains.  It  has,  however,  no 
demonstrable  advantage  over  preparations  of  flaxseed,  slippery  elm,  and  many  mucilag- 
inous substances  to  which  oil  or  glycerin  and  laudanum  have  been  added.  This  remark 
applies  particularly  to  its  use  in  poultices  and  fomentations. 

DECOCTUM  PAREIR^E,  Decoction  of  Pareira. 

Tisane  de  pareira  hrava , Fr.  ; Pareirawurzel-Absud , Grieswurzel-Absud , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Pareira-Root,  sliced,  II  ounces;  Distilled  Water  1 pint. 
Boil  for  15  minutes  in  a covered  vessel,  then  strain,  and  pour  as  much  distilled  water 
over  the  contents  of  the  strainer  as  will  make  the  strained  product  measure  a pint  (Impe- 
rial).—5/-. 

Action  and  Uses. — (For  the  action  and  uses  of  this  preparation  see  Pareira.) 
The  dose  of  the  decoction  is  Gm.  30-60  (f gj— ij)  three  or  four  times  a day. 

DECOCTUM  QUERCUS,  Br. — Decoction  of  Oak-Bark. 

Tisane  ( Decode ) d'ecorce  de  chene,  Fr.  ; Eichen rinden-A bsud,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Oak-Bark,  bruised,  11  ounces;  Distilled  Water  1 pint.  Boil 
for  10  minutes  in  a covered  vessel,  then  strain  and  pour  as. much  distilled  water  over  the 
contents  of  the  strainer  as  will  make  the  strained  product  measure  a pint  (Imperial). 
—Br. 

The  tannin  is  readily  extracted  by  the  boiling  water,  and  the  strained  liquid  will  cause 
precipitates  with  most  salts  of  the  heavy  metals,  with  solutions  of  alkaloids,  etc.  Alkaline 
liquids  will  hasten  the  decomposition  of  the  astringent  principles. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  preparation  is  seldom  administered  internally,  but  may 
be  used  to  restrain  passive  haemorrhages  and  chronic  Jinxes  of  the  bowels  and  bronchia. 


DECOCTUM  SARSAI.— DECOCTUM  SARSAPARILLA!  COMPOSITUM.  579 


Externally,  it  is  sometimes  employed  to  control  bleeding  and  also  suppuration , and  to 
diminish  excessive  local  sweats , but  more  frequently  to  constringe  relaxed  mucous  mem- 
branes and  lessen  their  secretion,  as  in  cases  of  flaccidity  of  the  uvula , pharynx , or  larynx , 
prolapsus  of  the  rectum , haemorrhoids , and  leucorrhoea.  It  may  be  used  to  promote  con- 
traction of  the  relaxed  skin  of  the  abdomen,  scrotum,  etc.  ; to  prevent  the  formation  of 
bed-sores  and  the  chafing  of  surgical  apparatus  ; to  heal  flabby  and  ill-conditioned  ulcers  ; 
to  restrain  gangrene  and  prevent  its  fetor ; and  finally,  in  a bath,  to  counteract  extreme 
relaxation  of  the  general  integument.  The  dose  of  this  decoction  is  Gm.  GO  (f^ij).  For 
external  purposes  a decoction  of  twice  the  officinal  strength  is  preferable. 

DECOCTUM  SARSAE,  Br, — Decoction  of  Sarsaparilla. 

Decoctum  sarsaparillae. — Tisane  de  salsepareille , Fr. ; Sarsaparilla- Absud , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Jamaica  Sarsaparilla,  cut  transversely,  2 \ ounces ; boiling 
Distilled  Water  1J  pints.  Digest  the  sarsaparilla  in  the  water  for  an  hour,  then  boil  for 
10  minutes  in  a covered  vessel,  cool  and  strain,  pouring  distilled  water,  if  required,  over 
the  contents  of  the  strainer,  or  otherwise  making  the  strained  product  measure  a pint 
(Imperial). — Br. 

The  formula  is  an  improvement  on  the  older  ones,  by  which  long-continued  boiling  was 
directed.  The  French  preparation  is  made  from  6 parts  of  sarsaparilla  to  100  of  liquid, 
by  first  macerating,  then  heating  to  boiling,  and  finally  digesting  for  2 hours. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  purpose  of  this  preparation  is  the  administration  of  sar- 
saparilla without  the  associate  ingredients  in  the  compound  decoction.  It  is,  however, 
very  little  used.  Its  dose  is  from  Gm.  60-120  (f  3ij— iv)  three  or  four  times  a day. 

DECOCTUM  SARSAPARILLAE  COMPOSITUM,  U.  S.,  B.  G,— Com- 
pound Decoction  of  Sarsaparilla. 

Decoctum  sarsse  compositum Br. ; Tisane  ( Apozeme ) sudorifique , decode  de  salseparielle 
compose  Fr. ; Zusammengesetztes  Sarsaparilla-Decoct , G. 

Preparation. — Sarsaparilla,  cut  and  bruised,  100  Gm. ; Sassafras,  in  No.  20  pow- 
der, 20  Gm. ; Guaiacum-wood,  rasped,  20  Gm.  ; Glycyrrhiza,  bruised,  20  Gm. ; Meze- 
reum,  cut  and  bruised,  10  Gm.  ; Water  a sufficient  quantity;  to  make  1000  Cc.  Boil 
the  sarsaparilla  and  guaiacum-wood  for  half  an  hour  in  a suitable  vessel  with  1000  Cc. 
of  water ; then  add  the  sassafras,  glycyrrhiza,  and  mezereum  ; cover  the  vessel  well,  and 
macerate  for  two  hours;  finally  strain  and  add  enough  cold  water,  through  the  strainer, 
to  make  the  product  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 pint  of  this  decoction  will  require  730  grains  of  sarsaparilla,  146  grains 
each  of  sassafras,  licorice  and  guaiacum-wood,  and  73  grains  of  mezereum. 

Take  of  Jamaica  sarsaparilla,  cut  transversely  2\  ounces;  Sassafras-root  in  chips, 
Guaiacum-wood  turnings,  Dried  Licorice-root,  each  4 ounce ; Mezereon-bark  4 ounce  ; 
boiling  Distilled  Water  11  pints.  Digest  the  solid  ingredients  in  the  water  for  an  hour, 
then  boil  for  ten  minutes  in  a covered  vessel,  cool  and  strain,  pouring  distilled  water, 
if  required,  over  the  contents  of  the  strainer,  or  otherwise  making  the  strained  product 
measure  a pint  (Imperial). — Br. 

The  P.  G.  directs  that  20  parts  of  sarsaparilla  cut  moderately  fine,  shall  be  digested 
with  520  parts  of  water  at  a temperature  of  35°-40°  C.  for  twenty-four  hours ; 1 
part  each  of  sugar  and  alum  are  then  added,  and  the  mixture  exposed  to  the  heat  of 
a boiling  water-bath  for  three  hours,  after  which  1 part  each  of  bruised  anise  and  bruised 
fennel,  5 parts  of  senna,  cut  moderately  fine,  and  2 parts  of  licorice-root,  crushed,  are 
added,  and  the  heat  continued  for  fifteen  minutes  longer.  After  settling  the  liquid  is 
decanted  and  the  weight  brought  up  to  500  parts  by  addition  of  water. 

Much  of  the  oil  of  sassafras  is  lost  by  boiling;  the  first  formula  has  been  constructed 
upon  that  of  the  French  Codex,  which  directs  boiling  3 parts  of  sarsaparilla  and  6 parts 
of  guaiacum-wood  with  100  parts  of  water,  then  adding  1 part  of  sassafras  and  2 of 
licorice-root,  and  macerating  for  two  hours.  It  will  be  observed  that  this  last  is  much 
the  weaker  preparation,  and  that  mezereon-bark  is  not  used  in  it.  The  first  two  are 
simplified  formulae  for  the  Lisbon  diet-drink  or  Decoctum  lusitanicum , which  was  formerly 
much  employed.  The  latter  may  also  be  said  of  Zittmann’s  decoction,  of  which  a stronger 
and  a milder  one  are  used  together.  Decoctum  Zittmanni  fortius  : Take  sarsaparilla-root, 
cut,  100  parts;  digest  in  water  2600  parts  for  twenty-four  hours,  and  add  enclosed  in  a 
linen  bag,  powdered  sugar  and  alum,  each  6 parts,  calomel  4 parts,  and  cinnabar  1 part; 


580 


DECOCTUM  SCOP ARII— DIGITALIS. 


then  heat  in  a covered  vessel  placed  in  a steam-bath  for  three  hours,  stirring  frequently, 
and  near  the  end  of  the  boiling  add  anise  and  fennel,  bruised,  each  4 parts,  senna,  cut, 
24  parts,  and  licorice-root,  cut,  12  parts.  Express,  strain,  set  aside  for  some  time,  and 
decant  to  obtain  2500  parts  of  clear  liquid.  2500  Gm.  of  this  are  to  be  divided  into  8 
parts.  Decoctum  Zittmanni  mitius : Take  the  residue  left  from  the  preceding  and  50 
parts  of  sarsaparilla,  heat  with  water  2600  parts  for  three  hours  in  a covered  vessel 
placed  in  a steam-bath,  stirring  frequently,  and  when  near  the  end  of  boiling  add  lemon- 
peel,  Chinese  cinnamon,  cardamom,  and  licorice-root,  each  cut  and  bruised,  3 parts. 
Express  and  operate  as  before  to  obtain  2500  parts. — P.  G.  1872. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  virtues  of  this  preparation  are  chiefly  due  to  sarsaparilla 
and  mezereon,  slightly  reinforced  by  the  sassafras,  which,  with  the  liquorice,  serves  to 
mask  the  acrid  flavor  of  the  mezereon.  It  is  chiefly  employed  in  the  treatment  of  chronic 
rheumatism , scrofula  of  the  bones,  chronic  cutaneous  diseases , and,  above  all,  constitutional 
syphilis.  Whatever  good  it  effects  is  mainly  due  to  its  promoting  the  secretions  of  the 
skin  and  kidneys.  (See  Sarsaparilla.)  The  dose  is  Gm.  130-160  (f^iv-v)  three  or 
or  four  times  a day. 

DECOCTUM  SCOPARII,  Hr. — Decoction  of  Broom. 

Tisane  de  genet  d balais , Fr. ; Besenginster-Absud , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Broom-Tops,  dried,  1 ounce ; Distilled  Water  1 pint.  Boil 
for  10  minutes  in  a covered  vessel,  then  strain,  and  pour  as  much  distilled  water  over  the 
contents  of  the  strainer  as  will  make  the  strained  product  measure  a pint  (Imperial). 
—Br. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  decoction  of  broom  is  apt  to  excite  irritation  of  the 
kidneys  and  urinary  passages,  and  decidedly  to  increase  the  quantity  of  urine.  It  is  the 
best  form  in  which  broom  can  be  administered  for  the  removal  of  dropsical  effusions.  It 
should  be  given  in  doses  of  Gm.  60  (f^ij),  repeated  at  intervals,  so  that  from  Gm.  250- 
500  (f^viij— xvj)  may  be  taken  during  the  day.  A compound  decoction  may  be  prepared 
by  boiling  broom-tops,  dandelion,  and  juniper-berries,  of  each  §ss  in  Oiss  of  water  to  a 
pint.  Dose,  Gm.  30-60  (fj§j— ij). 

DECOCTUM  TAR  AX  A Cl,  Br. — Decoction  of  Dandelion. 

Tisane  de  pissenlit,  Fr. ; Lowenzahnwurzel-Absud,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  dried  Dandelion-Root,  sliced  and  bruised,  1 ounce ; Distilled 
Water  1 pint.  Boil  for  10  minutes  in  a covered  vessel,  then  strain,  and  pour  as  much 
distilled  water  over  the  contents  of  the  strainer  as  will  make  the  strained  product  measure 
a pint  (Imperial). — Br. 

Dandelion-root,  if  properly  cut  and  bruised,  is  readily  extracted  by  hot  water. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  preparation  represents  all  the  virtues  of  taraxacum,  and 
is  the  most  suitable  mode  of  exhibiting  the  medicine.  As  it  is  apt  to  ferment,  it  should 
be  freshly  made  when  used.  The  dose  is  Gm.  60—90  (f^ij-iij),  and  should  be  taken 
about  half  an  hour  before  meals.  Its  efficacy  is  increased  by  simple  bitters,  such  as 
gentian  and  columbo,  or  by  a little  orange-peel  added  near  the  end  of  ebullition. 


DECOCTUM  ULMI. — Decoction  of  Elm-Bark. 

Decode  diorme , Fr.  ; Ulmenrinden-Decoct , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Elm-Bark,  cut  in  small  pieces,  2?  ounces;  Distilled  Water 
1 pint.  Boil  for  10  minutes  in  a covered  vessel,  then  strain  and  pour  as  much  distilled 
water  over  the  contents  of  the  strainer  as  will  make  the  strained  product  measure  a pint 
(Imperial). — Br.  1867. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  decoction  of  this  elm-bark  is  mucilaginous,  bitter,  and 
astringent.  It  is  probably  not  much  used  in  this  country.  The  dose  is  from  Gm.  60- 

120  (faij-iv). 

DIGITALIS,  U.  S. — Digitalis. 

Digitalis  folia , Br. ; Folia  digitalis , P.  G. — Foocglove-leaves , E.  ; Feuilles  de  digitate 
pourpree  (de  grande  digit  ale  f Fr.  ; Fingerliut  kraut,  G. ; Digitate , It.  ; Dedalera,  Sp. 

The  leaves  of  Digitalis  purpurea,  Linne  (D.  tomentosa,  Li)dc  et  Hoffmann ),  collected 


DIGITALIS. 


581 


of  plants  of  the  second  year’s  growth.  Woodville,  Med.  Bot.,  plate  24 ; Bentley  and 
Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  195. 

Nat.  Ord. — Scrophulariaceae. 

Origin. — Foxglove  is  a biennial  plant  indigenous  to  Southern  and  Central  Europe, 
particularly  in  the  western  section,  and  grows  wild  as  far  north  as  Norway,  likewise  in 
Madeira  and  the  Azores.  It  is  found  on  the  edges  of  woodlands  and  thickets  in  rather 
sandy  soil,  and  is  generally  absent  from  calcareous  districts.  It  is  well  known  as  an 
ornamental  garden-plant.  The  stem  is  0.6  to  1.5  M.  (2  to  5 feet)  high,  has  alternate 
leaves,  and  a long  terminal  raceme  of  handsome  purplish-crimson  and  tubular  bell-shaped 
flowers,  producing  an  ovoid  glandular  pubescent  capsule  with  numerous  small  seeds.  The 
leaves,  which  on  drying  diminish  in  weight  about  75  per  cent.,  should  be  collected  from 
wild  plants  growing  in  mountainous  regions  when  in  the  second  year,  and  about  two- 
thirds  of  the  flowers  are  expanded;  the  leaves  of  plants  grown  in  plains  proved  to  be 
less  active,  according  to  W.  Mayer  (1880)  and  others.  F.  Schneider  (1869)  found  the 
radical  leaves  collected  in  September  of  the  first  year  to  be  very  efficacious. 

Description. — The  radical  leaves  are  15  to  30  Cm.  (6  to  12  inches)  long,  ovate  or 
oblong-ovate,  rather  obtuse,  at  the  base 

contracted  into  a winged  petiole  10  to  15  Fig.  101. 

Cm.  (4  to  6 inches)  long.  The  margin 
is  rather  irregularly  doubly  crenate,  the 
upper  surface  is  wrinkled,  dull-green, 
and  soft-downy ; the  lower  surface  is  of 
a grayish  color,  densely  pubescent  and 
prominently  reticulate ; the  midrib  is 
broad  toward  the  base,  and  of  a slight 
purplish  tint.  The  stem-leaves  are  grad- 
ually reduced  in  size,  and  upon  shorter 
petioles,  the  uppermost  being  sessile, 
oblong-lanceolate,  and  obscurely  crenate. 

The  dried  leaves  have  a faint  tea-like 
odor  and  a bitter  rather  disagreeable 
taste.  In  cultivation  the  plant  usually 
becomes  less  hairy,  and  the  radical  leaves 
of  the  first  year’s  growth  are  usually  nar- 
rower and  more  oblong-lanceolate  in  out- 
line. The  following  reactions  may  be 
used  for  determining  the  absence  of 
leaves  containing  tannin,  and  the  pres- 
ence of  a proper  amount  of  digitalin  : 

“ An  infusion  prepared  with  1 part  of 
digitalis  and  10  parts  of  boiling  water  (should  be  of  a brownish  color,  of  an  acid  reac- 
tion, of  a peculiar  odor,  and  of  a nauseously  but  not  aromatic  taste. — P.  G.)  and  allowed 
to  cool,  has  a peculiar  odor,  turns  blue  litmus-paper  red,  and  upon  the  addition  of  a few 
drops  of  ferric-chloride  test-solution  acquires  a darker  tint,  a brown  precipitate  appearing 
after  several  hours  (absence  of  leaves  containing  tannin,  giving  blue-black  or  black-green 
precipitates.)  The  infusion,  diluted  with  3 parts  of  water,  becomes  turbid  on  the  addi- 
tion of  a few  drops  of  tannic-acid  test-solution. — U.  S .,  P.  G.  In  the  undiluted  infusion 
tannic-acid  solution  should  produce  a copious  precipitate,  which  is  dissolved  only  with 
difficulty  by  an  excess  of  tannin  (digitalin-tannin). — P.  G. 

Constituents. — The  medicinally  active  principle  has  been  named  digitalin,  and  is 
described  below. 

Digitalinum. — Digitalin,  E.,  G. ; Digitaline,  Fr. — The  following  directions  are  given 
for  its  preparation  : Take  of  Digitalis-leaf,  in  coarse  powder,  40  ounces  ; Rectified  Spirit, 
Distilled  Water,  Acetic  Acid,  Purified  Animal  Charcoal,  Ammonia-Water,  Tannic 
Acid,  Lead  Oxide,  in  fine  powder,  and  Pure  Ether,  of  each  a sufficiency.  Digest  the 
digitalis  with  a gallon  of  the  spirit  for  twenty-four  hours  at  a temperature  of  48.8°  C. 
(120°  F.) ; then  put  them  in  a percolator,  and  when  the  tincture  has  ceased  to  drop 
pour  a gallon  of  spirit  on  the  contents  of  the  percolator,  and  allow  it  slowly  to  percolate 
through.  Distil  off  the  greater  part  of  the  spirit  from  the  tincture,  and  evaporate  the 
remainder  over  a water-bath  until  the  whole  of  the  alcohol  has  been  dissipated.  31  ix 
the  residual  extract  with  5 ounces  of  distilled  water,  to  which  £ ounce  of  acetic  acid  has 
been  previously  added,  and  digest  the  solution  thus  formed  with  £ ounce  of  purified 


Digitalis  purpurea  Linne:  leaf  of  the  first  and  of  the  second 
year’s  growth. 


582 


DIGITALIS. 


animal  charcoal ; then  filter,  and  dilute  the  filtrate  with  distilled  water  until  it  measures 
a pint.  Add  ammonia-water  nearly  to  neutralization,  and  afterward  add  160  grains 
of  tannic  acid  dissolved  in  3 ounces  of  distilled  water.  Wash  the  precipitate  that  will 
be  formed  with  a little  distilled  water ; mix  it  with  a small  quantity  of  the  spirit  and  l 
ounce  of  the  lead  oxide,  and  rub  them  together  in  a mortar.  Place  the  mixture  in  a 
flask,  and  add  to  it  4 ounces  of  the  spirit;  raise  the  temperature  to  71.1°  C.  (160°  F.), 
and  keep  it  at  this  heat  for  about  an  hour ; then  add  l ounce  of  purified  animal  charcoal ; 
put  it  on  a filter,  and  from  the  filtrate  carefully  drive  otf  the  spirit  by  the  heat  of  a water- 
bath.  Lastly,  wash  the  residue  repeatedly  with  pure  ether. — Br.  1867. 

The  process  of  the  U.  S.  P.  1870  was  nearly  identical  with  the  foregoing.  Thus  pre- 
pared, digitalin  forms  a white  or  yellowish-white  powder,  or  it  may  be  obtained  in  porous 
mammillated  masses  or  scales.  It  is  inodorous  and  has  an  intensely  bitter  taste  ; is  solu- 
ble in  alcohol,  but  almost  insoluble  in  water  and  in  ether.  It  dissolves  slightly  in  dilute 
acids  without  neutralizing  them  ; its  solution  in  concentrated  hydrochloric  acid  is  yellow- 
ish, but  rapidly  becomes  green,  and  after  some  time  deposits  a green  powder.  Its  dust  is 
irritating  and  sternutatory.  Heated  upon  platinum-foil,  it  burns  with  a sooty  flame, 
finally  leaving  no  residue.  The  readiness  with  which  the  active  principle  of  digitalis  as 
it  exists  in  the  plant  is  altered  has  been  repeatedly  pointed  out.  The  properties  given  by 
both  the  former  British  and  United  States  Pharmacopoeias  are  those  mentioned  by  Ho- 
molle  (1844)  and  Quevenne.  and  by  the  French  Codex  for  a digitalin  prepared,  according 
to  Homolle’s  process,  by  precipitating  gummy  and  coloring  matter  from  the  cold  prepared 
aqueous  infusion  with  lead  subacetate,  removing  the  excess  of  lead  by  sodium  carbon- 
ate, precipitating  with  tannin,  and  treating  further  in  a manner  somewhat  similar  to  the 
preceding  process.  But  the  process  as  described  above  is  that  of  0.  Henry  (1845),  which 
yields  a different  product.  Lefort  (1864)  pointed  out  that  two  kinds  of  digitalin  are  in  the 
market — namely,  French  or  insoluble  digitalin , which  is  that  of  Homolle ; and  German  or 
soluble  digitalin , which  is  readily  soluble  in  water,  also  in  concentrated  hydrochloric  acid, 
the  solution  becoming  yellow,  brown,  and  finally  a dull  green  ; exposed  to  the  vapor  of 
hydrochloric  acid,  it  turns  brown,  while  insoluble  digitalin  turns  green.  Soluble  digitalin 
is  made  in  Germany  by  processes  analogous  to  that  of  Henry,  and  by  modifications  as 
suggested  by  G.  F.  Walz  in  his  investigations  of  digitalis  (1851  to  1858).  Kosmann 
(1875)  endeavored  to  explain  the  discrepant  results  as  follows:  The  active  principle  of 
digitalis,  which  is  freely  soluble  in  water,  has  been  named  by  various  authors  digitasolin, 
digitaletin , digit  olein , and  digitalin;  it  exists  in  the  leaves  and  seeds,  is  C27H45015,  a com- 
pound of  1 molecule  of  digitalretin  and  2 of  glucose,  and  is  readily  altered  even  in  the 
plant  by  saline  and  acid  bodies,  and  converted  into  glucose  and  insoluble  digitalin  ( digita- 
letin of  Walz),  which  is  C21H3309,  and  represents  1 molecule  each  of  digitalretin  and  glu- 
cose. Both  digitalins  are  very  bitter  and  energetic  medicinal  agents.  By  the  further 
action  of  hot  dilute  acids  insoluble  digitalin  is  split  into  glucose,  and  digitalretin  ( para - 
digitalretin ),  Ci5H2505,  which  is  slightly  bitter,  is  soluble  in  alcohol,  slightly  so  in  ether, 
but  insoluble  in  water  and  alkalies.  The  continued  action  of  dilute  acids  results  in  the 
production  of  dehydrated  digitalretin , C15H2103,  which  is  resin-like,  insoluble  in  water, 
soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  and  ammonia-water,  and  has  an  acrid  taste ; it  has  likewise  been 
called  paradigitalein.  Kosmann  considers  Nativelle’s  crystallized,  digitalin  as  being  inter- 
mediate in  composition  between  insoluble  digitalin  and  digitalretin. 

Nativelle’s  process  (1874)  is  as  follows:  1000  Gm.  of  powdered  digitalis-leaves  are 
macerated  for  24  hours  in  a solution  of  250  Gm.  of  lead  acetate  in  1000  Gm.  of  water, 
then  displaced  with  50  per  cent,  alcohol,  the  percolate  treated  with  20  Gm.  of  sodium 
bicarbonate,  and  distilled  and  evaporated  to  2000  Gm. ; when  cool  it  is  mixed  with  2000 
Gm.  of  water,  and  after  several  days  decanted.  The  precipitate  is  drained,  pressed,  mixed 
with  1000  Gm.  of  80  per  cent,  alcohol,  and  heated  to  boiling  ; 10  Gm.  of  neutral  lead  acetate 
are  added,  the  boiling  continued  for  a few  minutes,  and  when  cool  the  liquid  is  filtered. 
The  filtrate  is  mixed  with  50  Gm.  of  powdered  wood-charcoal,  and  distilled,  the  charcoal 
exposed  to  expel  the  alcohol,  drained,  dried,  and  percolated  with  chloroform.  The  impure 
digitalin  left  on  evaporation  is  dissolved  in  100  Gm.  of  90  per  cent,  alcohol,  the  solution 
mixed  with  a concentrated  solution  of  1 Gm.  of  lead  acetate  and  with  10  Gm.  of  granular 
animal  charcoal,  boiled  for  a few  minutes,  cooled,  filtered,  and  distilled.  The  granular 
crystals  are  drained,  dissolved  in  10  Gm.  of  hot  alcohol ; 5 Gm.  of  ether  and  15  Gm. 
of  water  are  added,  and  the  whole  well  shaken  together.  The  ether  removes  a colored 
fixed  oil,  and  crystalline  digitalin  is  deposited,  which,  if  necessary,  is  again  subjected  to 
the  same  process  of  purification.  It  crystallizes  from  hot  alcohol  in  the  form  of  white 
slender  brilliant  needles.  This  is  the  Digitalina  cristallisata,  F \ Cod. 


DIGITALIS. 


583 

A digit alin  obtained  from  the  seeds  was  found  by  Delffs  (1858)  to  have  the  com- 
position C]7H;i0O7,  and  to  be  colorless,  crystalline,  readily  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  or 
chloroform,  and  not  colored  by  concentrated  mineral  acids.  Schmiedeberg  (1875)  obtained 
digitoxin,  another  active  principle,  from  the  leaves  previously  exhausted  by  water ; it  is 
entirely  insoluble  in  water,  benzene,  or  carbon  disulphide,  very  sparingly  soluble  in  ether, 
slowly  soluble  in  chloroform,  and  readily  in  alcohol,  and  crystallizes  from  the  saturated 
solution  in  hot  spirit  of  chloroform  ; its  solutions  are  intensely  bitter ; its  composition  is 
C3,H;{307.  It  is  not  a glucoside,  but  acids  convert  it  into  toxire&in , which,  like  digitoxin, 
has  a powerful  action  on  the  heart.  Schmiedeberg  examined  also  a commercial  digitalin 
made  from  the  seeds,  and  found  in  it  digitonin , digitalin  (Kosmann’s  insoluble  digitalin  ?), 
and  digita/ein.  The  latter  is  yellowish,  not  colored  red  by  boiling  hydrochloric  acid,  and 
freely  soluble  in  water,  yielding  a frothing  solution  ; otherwise  it  resembles  digitalin.  This 
compound  is  C5H802,  forms  soft  colorless  grains,  is  nearly  insoluble  even  in  boiling  water, 
sparingly  soluble  in  ether  and  chloroform,  dissolves  freely  in  alcohol,  spirit  of  chloroform, 
and  acetic  acid,  and  with  warm  sulphuric  acid  strikes.a  yellow  or  yellowish-green  color, 
turning  red  with  potassium  bromide.  Digitonin,  C31H52017,  Schmiedeberg  (C27H44013, 
Kiliani,  1890),  is  colored  red  by  boiling  dilute  sulphuric  acid,  and  dissolves  in  alcohol, 
spirit  of  chloroform,  and  water,  this  last  solution  being  frothing  and  precipitated  by 
baryta-water,  like  saponin.  By  heating  digitonin  with  dilute  hydrochloric  acid  it  is  split 
into  galactose,  dextrose,  and  digitogenin,  which  is  insoluble  in  water  and  has  the  formula 
C15H240:i.  Oxidized  with  chromic  acid  it  forms  digitogenic  acid,  C14H2204 ; oxydigitogenic 
acid  C14H.,0O4,  and  digitic  acid  C10H16O4.  Duffield  (1868)  obtained  by  the  official  process 
0.8  to  0.9  per  cent,  of  digitalin  from  European  and  American  digitalis  leaves. 

Schmiedeberg’s  digitalin  is  regarded  by  Kiliani  (1892)  as  a distinct  substance  and 
gives  it  the  formula  C29H460]2.  It  is  in  the  market  as  digitalinnm  verum , and  forms  a white 
amorphous  powder,  the  particles  of  which  swell  up  when  placed  in  water.  It  is  soluble 
in  about  1000  parts  of  water,  and  100  parts  of  alcohol.  When  an  almost  saturated  solu- 
tion in  hot  80  or  90  per  cent,  alcohol  is  allowed  to  cool,  it  becomes  almost  solid  from 
separated  granules  of  digitalin.  It  melts  toward  217°  C.  (422.6°  F.)  and  becomes 
yellow.  2 Cc.  of  a 10  per  cent,  solution  of  caustic  potash  should  not  color  a few 
granules  when  placed  in  it.  Hydrochloric  acid  splits  it  into  digitaligenin,  glucose,  and 
digitalose. 

W.  Engelhardt  (1862)  obtained  a physiologically  active  volatile  alkaloid  from  the  leaves  ; 
it  was  also  noticed  by  F.  F.  Mayer  in  the  leaves,  but  not  in  the  extract  of  digitalis.  An 
acrid  principle,  scaptin , was  obtained  by  Radig  (1835)  in  a very  impure  state,  and  purer 
by  Walz  (1858)  as  digitalacrin.  Walz  (1852)  separated  digit  alosmin,  a pearly  acrid 
stearopten  of  the  odor  of  digitalis.  Morin’s  (1845)  antirrhinic  arid  likewise  possesses 
some  odor.  The  digit  oleic  acid  of  Kosmann  and  digitaloic  acid  of  Walz  are  volatile  and 

fatty,  and  probably  identical.  Schmiedeberg  observed  a yellow  coloring  matter  which  is 
probably  identical  with  chrysophan. 

The  other  constituents  of  digitalis  are  not  of  medicinal  or  pharmaceutical  importance  ; 
they  comprize  chlorophyll,  mucilage,  albumen,  various  salts,  and  inosite , observed  by 
Marm6  (1864). 

Adulterations  and  Substitutions  are  said  to  have  occasionally  occurred,  but  the 
physical  characters  of  digitalis-leaves  are  so  marked  that  they  cannot  easily  be  confounded 
with  other  leaves,  even  if  they  are  in  a broken  condition  ; the  rugose  upper  surface,  the 
crenate  margin,  and  the  densely-pubescent  lower  surface,  with  its  well-defined  meshes  of 
white  prominent  veins,  are  not  met  with  in  any  other  officinal  leaf.  As  accidental  impu- 
rities have  been  mentioned  the  nearly  smooth  leaves  of  Digitalis  ochroleuca,  Jacquin , the 
stellately  hairy  and  mucilaginous  leaves  of  species  of  Verbascum,  and  the  nearly  entire, 
obscurely  reticulate,  and  (upon  the  upper  side)  rough  leaves  of  Conyza  squarrosa,  Liune 
(s.  Inula  Coniza,  De  Candolle ),  and  Symphytum  officinale,  Linne. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  symptoms  produced  by  digitalis  have  been  described  in 
substantially  the  same  terms  by  nearly  all  observers.  The  following  summary,  by 
Koppe,  is  complete  in  its  details : In  about  an  hour  after  taking  2 Mg.  (^  gr.)  of 
digitoxin  he  began  to  experience  malaise,  depression,  faintness,  nausea,  and  repugnance 
to  food ; in  three  or  four  hours  the  pulse  fell  from  80  to  a point  varying  between  30  and 
58  ; nausea  was  intense  and  indescribably  distressing,  and  only  momentarily  relieved  by 
a profuse  vomiting  of  dark-green  bile,  and  later  of  yellow  bile ; the  pulse  was  intermit- 
tent, the  features  pale  and  collapsed.  In  seven  or  eight  hours  prostration  was  so 
extreme  that  without  assistance  it  was  impossible  to  stand  ; vision  was  so  confused  by 
an  indefiniteness  of  outline  that  familiar  objects  and  persons  were  not  recognized,  but 


584 


DIGITALIS. 


the  latter  were  known  by  their  voices  and  the  whole  field  of  vision  was  yellow.  During 
the  night  bilious  vomiting  recurred  at  intervals,  and  was  excited  even  by  iced  cham- 
pagne. The  following  day  the  same  symptoms  continued  ; the  pulse  was  54  and  inter- 
mittent, with  a sense  of  praecordial  sinking,  and  the  sphygmographic  tracing  showed 
diminished  force  of  the  pulse,  with  inequality.  The  second  night  was  disturbed  with  rest- 
lessness and  nightmare.  On  the  third  day  small  quantities  of  water  were  retained,  but 
the  vision  and  the  pulse  remained  as  before.  It  was  not  until  the  fourth  day  that  the 
experimenter  was  able  to  walk  leaning  on  a friend’s  arm,  and  that  the  disorder  of  vision 
gradually  subsided  ; sleep,  which  now  was  refreshing,  and  an  almost  .voracious  appetite, 
enabled  him  speedily  to  renew  his  strength  ( Archiv  f.  Exp.  Pathol .,  iii.  289).  In  other 
cases  in  which  digitalis  or  digitalin  has  been  taken  in  excessive  doses  the  symptoms 
were  essentially  the  same  as  these ; and  even  in  medicinal  doses  it  sometimes  causes 
cloudy  vision  {Med.  Record , xxvii.  432).  The  reduction  of  the  pulse-rate  has  also  been 
illustrated  by  Dr.  Joseph  Leidy,  Jr.,  Therap.  Gaz .,  xii.  661). 

As  regards  the  heart,  digitalis  and  its  preparations  in  small  doses  primarily  increase 
the  pulse-rate  and  tension,  and,  if  continued,  lower  the  rate  without  diminishing  the  ten- 
sion. It  is  an  error  to  suppose  that  the  increased  force  of  the  arterial  blood-currents,  as 
measured  by  the  dynamometer,  denotes  an  increased  volume  of  that  current ; on  the  con- 
trary, the  arteries  and  the  heart  both  experience  tonic  contraction  under  the  influence  of 
digitalis,  and  the  supply  of  arterial  blood  is  everywhere  diminished.  That  digitalis  does 
not  give  a real  increase  of  power  to  the  heart  is  shown  by  the  fact  that  when  the  pulse- 
rate  is  slowest  a comparatively  slight  muscular  exertion,  such  as  changing  the  recumbent 
for  the  erect  posture,  will  sometimes  cause  the  pulse  to  rise  from  the  lowest  point  reached 
under  the  influence  of  the  medicine  to  one  far  above  the  normal  rate.  This  effect,  how- 
ever, is  said  to  be  produced  only  when  the  tonic  action  of  the  medicine  is  about  to  be 
replaced  by  exhaustion.  The  tendency  to  rigid  contraction  does  not  affect  all  the  heart- 
muscles  in  an  equal  degree,  but  chiefly  those  of  the  left  ventricle.  It  is  this  power 
which  in  certain  cases  of  positive  or  relative  debility  of  that  ventricle  renders  the  medi- 
cine a valuable  remedy  while  its  action  is  maintained  within  certain  bounds,  but  beyond 
them  it  tends  to  obstruct  the  cardiac  circulation,  and  by  suddenly  preventing  the  free 
passage  of  blood  through  the  heart  to  cause  death  by  syncope.  The  so-called  cumulative 
action  of  digitalis,  by  which  its  sedative  poisonous  effects  are  suddenly  developed,  appears 
to  be  due  to  the  sudden  or  rapid  diminution  of  the  blood-supply  to  the  brain  when  the 
contraction  of  the  heart  and  arteries  has  reached  its  maximum.  The  study  of  digitaline 
by  Vulpian,  Lafon,  and  others  (Bull,  et  Mem.  Soc.  de  Therap .,  1887,  p.  14)  appears  to 
show  that  this  substance  does  not  adequately  represent  digitalis,  and  is  therefore  not 
reliable  as  a medicine. 

Digitalis  is  totally  destitute  of  direct  diuretic  properties.  The  cases  which  led  to  a 
belief  in  its  possessing  them  were  those  in  which  a diminished  secretion  of  urine  was 
produced  by  obstructive  heart  disease,  with  positive  or  relative  debility  of  that  organ. 
In  a healthy  state  of  the  heart  digitalis  diminishes  the  amount  of  urine  secreted,  as  well 
as  the  proportion  of  solid  excrementitious  matter  contained  in  it.  There  is  no  reason  to 
suppose  that  by  its  direct  operation  it  stimulates  any  one  of  the  functions.  It  certainly, 
in  doses  which  exhibit  its  physiological  operation,  depresses  the  entire  nervous  system, 
impairs  the  digestion,  diminishes  urination,  lowers  the  animal  temperature,  retards  the 
respiration,  and  may  for  a time  annihilate  the  activity  of  the  genital  organs.  Its  diuretic 
action,  which,  along  with  its  power  of  regulating  the  asystolic  heart,  is  the  strongest 
ground  of  its  claim  to  merit  as  a medicine,  appears,  then,  to  be  altogether  indirect. 

As  was  just  stated,  the  diuretic  virtues  of  digitalis  are  the  most  conspicuous,  and 
long  before  its  mode  of  action  had  been  experimentally  investigated  it  was  established 
as  the  most  efficient  remedy  for  dropsy  depending  directly  upon  disease  of  the  heart  and 
upon  that  form  of  renal  disease  which  consists  of  congestion,  and  tubal  obstruction  de- 
pending upon  obstacles  to  the  cardiac  circulation.  On  closer  examination  the  affections 
which  produce  dropsy  by  hindering  the  cardiac  circulation,  particularly  valvular  obstruc- 
tion, and  notably  stenosis  of  the  mitral  valve , and  positive  or  relative  weakness  of  the 
heart-muscle , were  found  to  be  most  readily  relieved  by  this  medicine.  By  rendering  the 
action  of  the  heart  stronger,  as  well  as  more  tranquil  and  regular,  and  perhaps  by  pro- 
ducing contraction  of  the  capillary  arteries,  the  venous  congestions  which  directly  occa- 
sion dropsy  are  removed,  degeneration  of  the  liver  or  kidneys  is  retarded,  and  the  absorp- 
tion of  the  effused  liquid  necessarily  follows.  When  dropsy  depends  upon  a congested 
state  of  the  kidneys,  and  to  the  prevented  escape  of  water  through  these  emunctories, 
and  is  cured  by  digitalis,  the  medicine  probably  acts  by  contracting  the  renal  capillaries, 


DIGITALIS. 


585 


and  thereby  lessening  the  engorgement  which  prevented  their  normal  secretion  from 
taking  place.  In  general  dropsy  of  whatever  form  debility  of  the  circulation,  whether 
it  be  due  to  cardiac  embarrassment  or  to  renal  obstruction,  is  the  essential  condition  for 
securing  the  diuretic  operation  of  digitalis. 

No  particular  lesion  of  the  heart  is  by  itself  an  indication  or  a contraindication  for  the 
use  of  digitalis ; it  is  the  phenomena  which  accompany,  and  usually  are  caused  by,  cer- 
tain lesions  that  furnish  an  indication  for  the  medicine.  Nor  is  it  indicated  by  mere 
irregularity  of  action  due  to  nervous  disorder  of  the  heart  itself,  or  to  disease  elsewhere 
acting  by  a reflex  operation  upon  the  heart.  Dilatation , slight  muscular  degeneration , and 
mitral  obstruction  and  insufficiency  are  the  lesions  whose  effects  are  favorably  influenced 
by  digitalis,  which  increases  the  blood-supply  to  the  heart  itself,  thereby  improving  its 
nutrition,  renders  the  irregular  heart  rhythmical  in  its  movements,  and  gives  a tonic  con- 
tractility to  its  flaccid  muscles.  But  this  very  power  is  not  without  its  danger  if  the 
weakness  of  the  heart  is  excessive,  especially  through  fatty  degeneration.  To  slow  the 
heart  when  its  muscular  structure  is  greatly  impaired  is  to  increase  its  embarrassment. 
To  slow  it  when  its  muscle  is  simply  hypertrophied  is  tc  counteract  the  conservative 
agency  by  which  the  hypertrophy  was  established,  as  in  cases  of  aortic  obstruction  or 
insufficiency,  or  of  bbth  united.  But  even  in  these  cases  Balfour  contends  that  digitalis 
is  beneficial  ( British  Med.  Jour.,  Jan.  4,  1892).  So  long  as  the  heart’s  movements  are 
not  arhythmical,  or  do  not  tend  to  become  so  during  excitement  of  the  organ,  there  is  no 
indication  for  the  use  of  digitalis.  Whenever  the  rhythm  of  the  heart  is  .perverted,  es- 
pecially when  its  impulse  is  irregular  in  force  as  well  as  time,  and  this  irregularity  is 
associated  with  a corresponding  irregularity  in  the  duration  and  intensity  of  the  mur- 
murs and  of  the  pulse,  and  when  at  the  same  time  the  arterial  system  is  deficient  in 
blood,  while  the  veins  are  overloaded  with  it,  as  shown  by  the  feeble  and  usually  irregular 
pulse,  the  dropsical  limbs,  the  difficult  breathing,  the  discolored  face,  and  perhaps  bloody 
expectoration  and  scanty  urine,  digitalis  is  clearly  indicated.  By  its  means  the 
hurried  pulsations  are  reduced  to  the  normal  rate,  and  gain  in  regularity  what  they  lose 
in  frequency,  and  the  dropsy,  if  that  is  present,  begins  to  decline  along  with  the  disorder 
of  the  circulation.  According  to  Fernet,  it  is  usually  on  the  third  or  fourth  day  that 
diuresis  begins,  especially  in  persons  who  have  not  become  habituated  to  the  drug,  and 
continues  for  several,  or  indeed  many,  days  after  the  medicine  has  been  discontinued. 
It  should  not  be  resumed  until  either  the  heart  falls  again  into  disorder  or  the  dropsical 
symptoms  recur.  (Compare  Wood,  Med.  News , lvi.  109;  Huchard,  Bull,  et  Mem.  Soc. 
Therap.,  1890,  p.  138.) 

The  false  and  absurd  theory  according  to  which  the  treatment  of  fever  should  consist 
of  means  tending  directly  and  solely  to  reduce  the  pulse-rate  has  been  illustrated  by  the 
use  of  digitalis  in  typhoid  fever.  Even  its  advocates  have  not  shown  that  it  abridges  the 
disease  or  lessens  its  mortality,  while  it  certainly  tends  to  impair  the  digestion  and 
reduce  the  strength,  and  may  even  occasion  sudden  death.  The  use  of  digitalis  in 
other  forms  of  fever  is  equally  unsatisfactory,  and  justifies  the  judgment  of  Traube,  that 
the  true  field  of  action  for  digitalis  is  not  fever.  That  it  is  practically  useful  in  febrile 
conditions  with  a feeble  heart,  as  in  typhoid  pneumonia  and  relapsing  fever , has  been 
asserted  (Fothergill),  but  has  not  been  proved.  Indeed,  Liebermeister  condemns  digitalis 
in  fever,  both  because  its  antipyretic  operation  is  uncertain,  and  because,  when  it  does 
take  place,  it  is  apt  to  be  accompanied  by  disquieting  symptoms.  He  even  remarks  that 
it  can  do  no  harm  while  the  heart  is  strong  (a  case  in  which  it  is  not  indicated)  unless  it 
brings  on  vomiting,  as  it  often  does,  and  should  then  be  discontinued,  but  that  where  the 
heart  is  feeble  it  must  be  very  circumspectly  used.  Indeed,  the  more  frequent  the  pulse 
is  in  fever  the  less  indication  is  there  for  digitalis.  “ A tendency  to  heart-paralysis  is 
not  neutralized,  but  rather  promoted,  by  digitalis.  It  is  only  in  an  advanced  stage  of  the 
attack,  when  the  fever  has  subsided,  and  yet  the  pulse  continues  frequent  and  the  heart 
weak,  that  an  indication  for  digitalis  arises  similar  to  that  in  heart  disease,  and  then  it 
will  reduce  the  frequent  pulse  and  strengthen  the  heart  for  its  work.”  Upon  which  it  is 
sufficient  to  remark  that  food  and  cordials  have  always  been  found  efficient  in  such  con- 
ditions, and  that  they  expose  the  patient  to  no  possible  risk,  as  digitalis  does.  The  recent 
use  of  digitalis  in  fever  is  only  a revival  of  the  old  application  of  it  by  Rasori  to  the 
treatment  of  inflammations ; it  has  also  been  employed  by  some  who  were  perhaps 
ignorant  of  the  history  of  its  vogue  and  of  its  condemnation.  The  results  of  its  revival 
have  been  to  prove,  in  spite  of  contrary  affirmations  ( Therap . Gaz.,  xii.  684), 
that  digitalis  does  not  in  the  least  modify  favorably  any  acute  inflammation,  and  espe- 
cially pneumonia , pleurisy , and  pericarditis , but  that,  on  the  contrary,  it  exposes  the 


586 


DIGITALIS. 


patient  to  tlie  risk  of  sudden  death.  The  only  inflammatory  affection  in  which  it  may  he 
advantageously  used  is  chronic  bronchitis  with  profuse  secretion,  which  is  often  confounded 
with  consumption.  There  is  no  doubt  that  in  this  disease  it  has  been  found  to  lessen  the 
pulmonary  congestion  and  secretion,  and  thereby  the  dyspnoea,  sweating,  and  wasting  of 
strength  which  they  cause.  Doubtless  cases  of  this  kind  were  formerly  reported  by 
Beddoes  and  others  as  of  pulmonary  consumption  benefited  by  digitalis.  Recently  one 
eminent  physician  at  least,  who  knows  well  what  he  says,  has  declared  that  “ the  local 
and  general  effects  of  digitalis  are  invaluable  in  all  the  stages  of  phthisis  ” ( Med . Record , 
xxv.  199).  His  experience  seems  to  have  been  exceptional.  There  is  good  reason  for  be- 
lieving that  certain  forms  of  haemorrhage  may  be  controlled  by  digitalis,  more  particularly 
uterine  haemorrhage,  whether  due  to  congestion,  to  vascular  relaxation,  or  to  organic  dis- 
eases of  the  uterus.  Its  utility  in  pulmonary  haemorrhage  is  less  demonstrable.  The 
mode  of  action  of  digitalis  in  these  cases  may  he  presumed  to  be  analogous  to  that  of 
ergot — viz.  it  causes  a contraction  of  the  arteries.  The  same  mode  of  action  may  be 
attributed  to  the  medicine  in  delirium  tremens , in  which  it  is  reputed  to  be  highly  efficient 
if  given  in  large  doses,  such  as  Gm.  16  (f^ss)  of  the  tincture,  and  even  as  much  as  Gm. 
100  (f^iij).  More  frequently,  however,  doses  of  Gm.  4-8  (fi^j-ij),  repeated  every 
three  or  four  hours,  have  been  employed.  It  would  appear  that  fliere  is  something  in 
this  affection  which  ensures  a singular  toleration  of  the  medicine.  But  the  necessity  of 
using  it  at  all,  and  thereby  incurring  a risk  which  experience  has  shown  to  be  occasion- 
ally a fatal  one,  is  not  apparent  in  relation  to  a disease  'which  nearly  always  recovers 
under  judicious  hygienic  treatment  when  the  patient’s  constitution  is  sound.  Digitalis 
was  formerly  esteemed  as  a remedy  for  epilepsy , and  recently  it  has  been  used  by  Gowers 
along  with  belladonna  to  reinforce  the  action  of  the  bromides,  and  was  found  by  him  dis- 
tinctly more  useful  than  the  bromides  alone  ( Times  and,  Gaz.,  April,  1880,  p.  447  ; com- 
pare Wiggins,  Phila.  Med.  Times , xvii.  181).  The  anaphrodisiac  virtue  of  digitalis  has 
been  found  useful  in  preventing  erections  of  the  penis  due  to  local  irritation,  and  also  noc- 
turnal semin al  emissions  and  other  effects  of  genital  excitement.  In  poisoning  by  aconite 
digitalis  is  physiologically  indicated,  and  published  cases  are  supposed  to  furnish  clinical 
evidence  of  its  value.  A man  had  taken  an  ounce  of  strong  tincture  of  aconite,  had 
cold  hands  and  feet,  a dusky  and  moist  skin,  frothed  at  the  mouth  and  nose,  and  was 
pulseless.  An  emetic  caused  vomiting  and  purging ; 20  drops  of  tincture  of  digitalis 
were  injected  subcutaneously,  and  galvanism  applied  to  the  cardiac  region  and  kept  up  for 
twenty  minutes.  The  patient  being  now  able  to  swallow,  some  ammonia  and  brandy,  with 
a teaspoonful  of  tincture  of  digitalis,  was  given,  and  he  recovered  perfectly  (Brit.  Med. 
Jour.,  Dec.  1872,  p.  680).  The  use  of  galvanism,  emetics,  and  diffusible  stimulants  in 
this  case  lessens  the  value  of  the  evidence  in  favor  of  digitalis.  In  a later  case  ( Boston 
Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  Oct.  1879,  p.  544)  of  recovery  under  similar  treatment  it  is  stated 
that  the  hypodermic  injection  of  15  drops  of  tincture  of  digitalis  was  “ followed  at  once 
by  quite  a decided  increase  in  the  volume  of  the  pulse,”  and  the  patient  recovered. 

Digitalis  has  been  used  as  a local  application  to  promote  the  resolution  of  enlarged 
glands , and  also  in  infusion  or  tincture  applied  to  the  abdomen,  especially  in  cases  of 
renal  dropsy.  In  the  former  case  iodine  is  preferable,  and  in  the  latter  the  medicine 
should  rather  be  given  internally. 

Digitalis  is  given  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.06-0.12  (gr.  j — ij ) twice  or  thrice  daily  until  its 
effects  begin  to  appear,  when  it  should  be  at  once  suspended  or  diminished  The  infusion 
or  the  fluid  exract  or  the  tincture  is  preferable,  and  of  these  the  first  is  by  far  the  most 
efficient.  Besides  the  officinal  infusion,  one  may  be  prepared  daily  with  about  Gm.  0.20 
(gr.  iij)  of  digitalis  in  about  Gm.  200  (f3  vj)  of  hot  water,  sweetened,  and  flavored  with 
tincture  of  cinnamon,  bitter  orange,  or  mint.  This  quantity  should  be  given  in  three  or 
four  doses  at  regular  intervals.  There  is  no  doubt  that  small  are  preferable  to  large 
doses,  for  if  they  produce  their  proper  medicinal  effects  a little  later,  it  is  without  risk. 
And  it  should  be  understood  that  these  effects  are  not  to  be  expected  for  several  days. 
Poisonous  effects  are  to  be  combated  by  distilled  alcoholic  liquors,  wine,  ether, .carbonate 
of  ammonium,  opium,  and  strong  coffee.  Strychnine  has  been  recommended  as  a physi- 
ological, and  tannin  as  a chemical,  antidote.  If  a poisonous  dose  has  been  recently 
swallowed,  ipecacuanha,  mustard,  and  other  prompt  emetics  should  be  administered.  It 
has  been  suggested  to  precede  their  use  by  a copious  draught  of  milk.  The  variable 
strength  of  digitalin  requires  that  it  should  be  used  very  cautiously,  beginning  with  the 
minimum  dose,  which  may  be  stated  at  Gm.  0.001  (gr.  -$f).  This  dose  may  be  repeated 
at  intervals  of  six  or  more  hours,  and  gradually  and  continuously  increased,  but  so  as  not 
to  exceed  Gm.  0.01  (gr.  1)  during  twenty-four  hours. 


DIOSCOREA . — D 10  SP  YR  OS. 


587 


Echujin,  an  African  arrow-poison,  belongs  to  the  digitalis  group.  It  slows  the  heart 
and  arrests  it  in  systole,  producing  general  convulsions.  It  does  not  raise  the  blood- 
pressure  in  cats  and  rabbits  ( Therap.  Monatsch .,  iv.  361). 

Coronilla  (scorpioides)  furnishes  a glucoside  which  is  alleged  to  act  like  digitalis  in 
slowing  the  heart  and  causing  diuresis,  but  for  a much  briefer  period.  Its  efficient  dose 
is  not  determined.  (Compare  Iherap.  Gaz .,  xiii.  516  ; xvi.  179  ; Practitioner , xliv.  379  ; 
University  Med.  May.,  xvi.  179.) 


DIOSCOREA. — Wild  Yam,  Colic-root. 

The  rhizome  of  Dioscorea  villosa,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Dioscoreacese. 

Origin. — Wild  yam  is  a dioecious  climbing  perennial  growing  in  thickets  in  moist 
localities  of  the  United  States  south  to  Florida  and  west  to  the  Mississippi.  The  leaves 
are  alternate,  opposite  or  whorled,  broadly  ovate-cordate,  acuminate,  nine-  to  eleven-ribbed, 
nearly  smooth  above,  downy  and  paler  beneath.  The  fruit  is  a triangular  winged  capsule 
growing  in  pendulous  bunches. 

Description. — The  rhizome  is  horizontal,  about  13  Mm.  (?  inch)  thick,  somewhat 
flattened  above,  repeatedly  forked  or  branched  and  bent,  15  Cm.  (6  inches)  or  more  in 
length,  on  the  lower  side  with  distant  simple  wiry  rootlets  from  5 to  10  Cm.  (2  to  4 
inches)  long.  The  rhizome  is  externally  of  a pale  yellowish-brown  color,  and  breaks  with 
some  difficulty,  showing  internally  a compact  white  tissue  with  numerous  scattered  yel- 
lowish wood-bundles.  It  is  inodorous,  and  has  a taste  at  first  insipid,  and  afterward 
strongly  acrid.  In  Virginia  it  is  known  as  rheumatism-root. 

Constituents. — Wild  yam  contains  much  starch.  The  acrid  principle,  allied  to 
saponin,  appears  to  be  gradually  altered  on  boiling  the  rhizome  with  water. 

Other  Species. — Most  species  of  Dioscorea  which  are  indigenous  and  cultivated  in  the  East 
and  West  Indies  and  in  other  tropical  countries  have  large  farinaceous  edible  tubers,  which  are 
known  as  yam , E.,  G.  ; igname , Fr.  The  following  are  the  most  important:  D.  alata,  Limit , 
White  negro  yam;  D.  triphylla,  Limit,  Buck  yam;  D.  trifida,  Limit,  Indian  yam;  D.  bul- 
bifera,  Limit,  Ceylon  white  yam ; and  D.  sativa,  Linnt,  Common  yam. 

The  smaller  cylindrical  tuberous  rhizomes  of  D.  japonica,  Thunberg , and  D.  quinqueloba, 
Thunberg , are  eaten  in  -Japan.  The  former  is  about  10  Cm.  (4  inches)  long,  farinaceous  and 
white  ; the  latter  is  smaller,  externally  pale-brown,  internally  dingy-white,  and  has  a bitterish 
taste. 

Action  and  Uses. — Time  has  not  increased  our  knowledge  of  the  medicinal  quali- 
ties of  wild  yam  more  than  it  has  that  of  many  other  indigenous  plants  which  were  long 
ago  reputed  to  be  valuable  medicines.  We  are  therefore  compelled  to  repeat,  with  little 
addition  or  modification,  the  old-time  statement  that,  according  to  Riddell,  “ a decoction 
of  it  is  eminently  beneficial  in  bilious  colic,”  and  that  Dr.  Neville  “places  much  reliance 
on  the  tincture  as  an  expectorant,  and  also  that  it  acts  as  a diaphoretic,  and  in  large  doses 
as  an  emetic.”  In  Iowa  it  is  known  as  “ colic-root.”  If  the  “ bilious  colic  ” referred  to 
signifies  the  pain  caused  by  biliary  concretions  in  passing  through  the  ducts  of  the  liver, 
then  the  claims  made  for  dioscorea  as  a specific  cure  (Shoemaker,  Jour.  Am.  Med.  Assoc., 
xiii.  407)  for  this  affection  have  not  been  substantiated  by  any  published  record.  The 
same  may  be  said  of  the  statement  that  it  has  “ an  especial  effect  upon  the  liver.”  The 
resin  precipitated  by  water  from  the  tincture  is  said  to  produce  effects  analogous  to  those 
above  enumerated,  and  has  been  prescribed  in  doses  of  from  Gm.  0.06-0.30  (gr.j-v).  A 
fluid  extract  and  also  a decoction  have  been  employed. 


DIOSPYROS. — Persimmon,  Date-plum. 

Fruits  de  plaqueminier  de  Virginie,  Fr. ; Persimmon friichte,  Dattelpjlaumen , G. 

The  unripe  fruit  of  Diospyros  virginiana,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Ebenaceae. 

Origin. — The  persimmon  tree  is  indigenous  to  the  United  States,  and  grows  in  wood- 
lands, in  low  grounds,  and  along  streams  from  the  New  England  States  west  to  Illinois, 
and  in  the  Southern  States.  It  attain.s  a height  of  15  to  18  M.  (50  to  60  feet),  is  irreg- 
ularly branched,  has  nearly  smooth,  subcoriaceous,  ovate-oblong  leaves,  and  produces  in 
May  and  .June  axillary  and  solitary  fertile  flowers  with  eight  stamens  and  clustered  ster- 


588 


DR  A CONTIUM. 


malic  acid,  and  sugar. 

Fig.  102. 


ile  flowers  with  sixteen  stamens.  The  fruit  ripens  in  November,  but  should  be  collected 
not  later  than  October,  while  green. 

Description. — The  fruit  is  a globular  berry  about  25  Mm.  (one  inch)  in  diameter, 
with  a short  foot-stalk,  and  the  permanent  four-lobed  calyx  at  the  base,  green,  smooth, 
and  four-  to  six-celled,  each  cell  containing  a single  flat  ovate-oblong  seed.  The  unripe 
persimmon  has  a short  remnant  of  the  style  attached,  is  of  a pleasant  but  weak  odor, 
and  contains  a viscid  juice  of  a very  astringent  taste,  which  is  retained  when  carefully 
dried,  but  becomes  acidulous-sweet  after  the  fruit  has  been  exposed  to  the  frost. 

Constituents. — B.  R.  Smith  (1846)  found  the  unripe  fruit  to  contain  tannin, 
J.  E.  Bryan  (1860)  detected  also  pectin,  and  regards  the  tan- 
nin as  distinct  from  the  tannin  of  galls.  Char- 
ropin  (1873),  however,  considers  it  identical  with 
the  latter,  and  isolated  also  a yellow  coloring  mat- 
ter which  is  insoluble  in  water,  but  readily  soluble 
in  ether. 

The  ripe  fruit  is  edible.  Mixed  with  flour,  a 
pleasant  bread  or  cake  is  made  of  it.  When 
kneaded  with  half  its  measure  of  wheat-bran  and 
well  baked  in  an  oven,  a bread  is  obtained  which  in 
the  Southern  States  is  preserved  for  making  per- 
simmon beer  by  fermenting  it  with  some  hops. 
Such  beer  is  also  made  from  the  fresh  fruit,  and 
by  distillation  alcohol  may  be  obtained. 


Diospyros  virginiana : fruit  and  transverse 
section,  natural  size. 


Allied  Plants. — Diospyros  obtusifolia,  Willdenow , of  Mexico,  is  called  Zapote  prieto  or  Z. 
negro ; the  leaves  and  bark  are  astringent  and  tonic.  Diospyros  embryopteris,  Persoon  (Bentley 
and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 168).  The  orange-yellow  fruit  is  about  5 Cm.  (2  inches)  in  diameter, 
about  ten-celled,  very  astringent  in  its  unripe  state,  and  is  used  in  India  like  persimmon. 

Diospyros  kaki,  Linn6  filius , a medium-sized  tree  of  China  and  Japan,  has  a sweet,  reddish 
fruit,  which,  preserved  with  sugar,  is  occasionally  seen  in  our  market,  being  sold  as  Chinese  or 
Japanese  persimmon. 


Action  and  Uses. — The  unripe  fruit,  and  also  the  inner  bark,  are  astringent  and 
bitter,  and  are  used,  like  other  products  of  the  same  nature,  in  the  treatment  of  chronic 
and  subacute  diarrhoea , leucorrhoea , sore  throat , and  uterine  haemorrhage.  It  is  also  some- 
times employed  as  a tonic  and  febrifuge.  The  most  convenient  preparation  is  an  infusion 
or  a vinous  tincture,  which  may  be  made  by  percolation  with  an  ounce  of  the  dried  unripe 
fruit  or  of  the  bark  to  half  a pint  or  less  of  the  menstruum.  It  may  be  prescribed  in 
doses  of  from  Gm.  15-60  (fgss-ij). 


DRACONTIUM. — Dracontium. 


Skunk-cabbage , Skunk-weed , Polecat-weed , E. 
wurz , G. 


Pothos  fetide , Fr. ; Stinkende  Drachen- 


The  rhizome  and  roots  of  Dracontium  foetidum,  Linne , s.  Ictodes  foetidus,  Bigelow . 
Fig.  103.  s.  Symplocarpus  foetidus,  Salisbury , s.  Pothos  foetida,  Michaux. 

Meehan,  Native  Flowers , i.  pi.  15. 

Nat.  Ord. — Araeeae. 

Origin. — This  common  North  American  perennial  grows 
in  bogs  and  moist  grounds,  and  flowers  in  April  and  the  early 
part  of  May.  The  spathe,  which  precedes  the  leaves,  is 
hooded-shellform,  pointed,  rather  fleshy,  of  a variegated  pur 
Dracontium  foetidum:  section  plish-brown  and  yellow  color,  and  encloses  a short  oval  spadix 

througii  one-half  of  upper  part  which  is  densely  tessellated  with  fleshy  flowers,  and  enlarges 
finally  to  a spongy  mass  superficially  covering  the  globular 
seeds.  The  leaves  are  radical,  45  to  60  Cm.  (li  to  2 feet)  long,  on  short  petioles,  smooth, 
ovate,  and  heart-shaped.  All  parts  have  a very  fetid  odor,  which  on  bruising  is  mors 
decided. 

Description. — The  rhizome,  which  should  be  collected  early  in  the  spring,  is  tuber- 
ous, truncate  above  and  below,  7 to  10  Cm.  (3  to  4 inches)  long,  and  about  5 Cm.  (2 
inches)  in  diameter,  of  a gray-brown  color,  the  upper  half  beset  with  numerous  long 
fleshy  rootlets,  which  in  drying  become  much  shrivelled  and  longitudinally  wrinkled,  and 
are  of  a lighter  color  and  weaker  taste  than  the  rhizome.  The  latter  is  white  internally, 
or  gray  when  old,  has  the  fibro-vascular  bundles  scattered,  but  rather  crowded  within  the 


DROSERA. 


589 


nucleus-sheath,  and  possesses  a very  acrid  and  biting  taste,  which  is  gradually  lost  when 
long  kept. 

Constituents. — The  root  was  analyzed  by  J.  M.  Turner  (1836)  who  did  not  succeed 
in  isolating  the  acrid  principle,  which  appears  to  be  altered  by  heat,  and  who  obtained 
from  it  a volatile  fatty  matter,  a little  volatile  oil,  resin,  wax,  fixed  oil,  sugar,  gum,  and 
starch. 

Action  and  Uses. — Dracontium,  when  chewed,  produces  irritation  of  the  mouth, 
and,  applied  to  a freshly-blistered  surface,  augments  its  secretion.  Internally,  it  occasions 
vertigo,  nausea,  and  frequently  vomiting.  Its  fetid  smell  probably  suggested  its  employ- 
ment as  an  antispasmodic,  and  reports  are  not  wanting  of  its  having  cured  hysteria , 
chorea , and  spasmodic  asthma , and  even  chronic  bronchitis,  chronic  rheumatism,  and  dropsy. 
The  dose  is  from  Gm.  0.60-1.20  (gr.  x-xx)  of  the  recently-dried  root.  An  infusion 
made  with  Gm.  32  (§j)  of  the  dried  root  to  a pint  of  water  may  be  prescribed  in  doses 
of  1 or  2 tablespoonfuls.  A saturated  tincture  made  in  the  same  manner  may  be  given 
in  the  dose  of  1 or  2 teaspoonfuls. 

DROSERA. — Sundew. 

Herba  r or  elide. — Rossolis,  Rosee  du  soleil,  Fr. ; Sonnenthau,  G. 

The  entire  plant,  Drosera  rotundifolia,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Droseraceae. 

Description. — This  little  perennial  is  frequently  met 
with  in  peat-bogs  and  near  swamps  in  Europe  and  North 
America,  particularly  in  the  northern  section  of  this  continent. 

It  has  a tuft  of  petiolate  radical  leaves  which  are  nearly 
orbicular,  fleshy,  and  upon  the  upper  surface  covered  with 
numerous  whitish  or,  toward  the  margin,  purplish  glandular 
bristles.  The  scape  is  about  10  Cm.  (4  inches)  high,  and 
bears  a circinate  one-sided  raceme  of  small  flowers  with  five 
white  petals,  five  stamens,  and  three  styles.  The  plant  flowers 
in  July  and  August,  is  inodorous,  and  has  an  acidulous,  bit- 
terish, and  acrid  taste.  According  to  Yigier  (1878),  the  plant 
loses  on  drying  85  per  cent,  of  moisture,  and  when  dry  yields 
25  per  cent,  of  extract  with  60  per  cent,  alcohol. 

The  nearly-allied  D.  longifolia,  IAnne , s.  D.  intermedia, 

Hayne , likewise  a native  of  both  continents,  is  chiefly  distin- 
guished by  its  spatulate-oblong  leaves. 

Constituents. — The  juice  of  sundew  was  examined  by 
TrommsdorfF  (1833),  who  found  in  it  free  malic  acid,  various 
salts,  and  a red  coloring  matter,  which  is  precipitated  by 
lead  acetate.  Hager  believed  the  acid  to  be  a mixture  of 
citric  and  malic  acids.  Lugan  (1878)  succeeded  in  crystallizing 
it,  and  regards  it  as  peculiar;  but  G.  Stein  (1879)  showed  it 
to  be  citric  acid.  By  treatment  with  chloroform,  Lugan 
extracted  a greenish-brown,  odorous,  and  very  acrid  resin  ; the  juice  contains  also  glucose, 
and  the  viscous  exudation  of  the  glands  has  a neutral  reaction,  and  does  not  contain 
formic  and  butyric  acids,  the  presence  of  which  was  reported  by  Reiss  and  Will. 

Action  and  Uses. — Two  species  which  have  been  used  in  medicine,  D.  rotundifolia 
and  1).  longifolia,  appear  to  be  identical  in  their  qualities.  In  Europe  for  several  centu- 
ries they  had  a popular  reputation  as  remedies  in  chronic  bronchitis  and  asthma,  and 
externally  the  juice  was  applied  to  remove  warts.  In  1860  some  attempts  were  made  to 
revive  the  use  of  this  medicine  by  employing  its  expressed  juice,  which,  however,  it  was 
found,  might  be  taken  to  the  extent  of  3 or  Jounces  daily  without  producing  any  distinct 
effects.  Some  cases  of  bronchitis  were  reported  to  be  benefited  by  it,  and  in  ichooping 
cough  it  appeared  sometimes  to  exert  a palliative  influence,  particularly  by  lessening  the 
tendency  to  vomit  during  the  paroxysms.  This  effect  has  been  very  plausibly  attributed 
to  the  preparation  employed — viz.  one  made  by  macerating  the  plant  in  alcohol.  Murrell, 
however,  alleges  that  while  5-drop  doses  of  a “ one-in-ten  tincture  ” aggravated  the  cough 
in  a case  which  he  treated,  i-drop  doses  palliated,  and  then  arrested,  the  cough  ( Lancet , 
Apr.  17,  1880). 


Fig.  104. 


590 


DULCAMARA. 


DULCAMARA,  U.  S.—  Dulcamara. 


Stipites  dulcamara. — Bittersweet , Woody  nightshade , E.  ; Tiges  de  douce-amere  (de  morelle 
grimpante ),  Fr. ; Bittersuss- Stengel,  G. ; Dulcamara,  Gloria , Sp. 

The  young  branches  of  Solanum  Dulcamara,  Linne  (s.  Dulcamara  flexuosa,  Moencli). 
Woodville,  Med.  Bot.,  plate  33;  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  190. 

Nat.  Ord. — Solanaceae,  Solaneae. 

Origin. — The  bittersweet  is  a somewhat  shrubby  and  climbing  plant  which  grows 
throughout  the  greater  part  of  Europe,  in  Northern  Africa,  and  from  Asia  Minor  east  to 
North-western  India  and  to  China.  It  is  naturalized  in  North  America,  and  in  many  places 
is  abundant.  It  grows  around  dwellings  and  in  hedges  and  thickets  on  moist  banks.  The 
stem,  when  supported  by  shrubs,  is  sometimes  4.5  to  6 M.  (15  to  20  feet)  long,  woody  at 
the  base,  and  divided  into  many  flexuose  branches  dying  back  during  the  winter;  the 
leaves  are  alternate,  petiolate,  and  slightly  pubescent  beneath,  the  lower  ones  ovate  with 
a heart-shaped  base,  the  upper  ones  halberd-shaped  or  with  two  ear-like  lobes  at  the  base; 
the  flowers  are  in  small  cymes,  and  have  a deeply  five-lobed,  purple,  sometimes  whitish, 
corolla.  The  berries  are  oval,  bright-red.  and  contain  many  minutely-pitted  seeds. 

Description. — The  branches  which  are  one  or  two  years  old  are  collected  in  the  autumn 
after  having  shed  their  leaves,  or  in  the  spring  before  the  leaves  appear.  They  are  5 Mm. 
(1  inch)  and  less  thick,  cylindrical  or  somewhat  angular,  longitudinally  striate  or  furrowed, 

and  more  or  less'warty.  The  corky  layer  is  pale 
greenish-  or  yellowish-brown,  separates  easily,  and 
covers  a dark-green  bark,  which  is  lighter-green  in 
the  bast-layer ; and  this  consists  of  thin-walled 
parenchyma,  containing  in  the  inner  layer  minute 
crystals  of  calcium  oxalate,  and  in  the  outer  zone 
a circle  of  tough  bast-fibres,  either  single  or  in 
small  groups.  The  greenish  (afterward  yellowish) 
wood  is  porous,  striate  by  the  fine  medullary  rays, 
and  consists  of  one  or  two  annual  rings ; the  whit- 
ish pith  has  been  usually  absorbed.  The  odor  is 
unpleasant,  somewhat  narcotic,  weak  in  the  dried 


Fig.  106. 


Solanum  Dulcamara,  Linni. 


Transverse  section  of  branch. 


stalks ; the  taste  is  bitter,  afterward  sweet.  Bittersweet  is  generally  met  with  in  the 
market  cut  into  short  sections. 

Constituents. — The  bittersweet  principle  has  been  variously  named  picroglycion,  dul- 
carin,  and  dulcamarin.  Desfosses  (1821)  separated  from  the  drug  sola, nine,  an  alkaloid 
previously  discovered  by  him  in  Solanum  nigrum,  and  he,  as  well  as  Pelletier,  regarded 
the  picroglycion  as  solanine  mixed  with  glucose.  Winckler  (1841),  Moitessier  (1856), 
and  others  considered  the  alkaloid  of  dulcamara  as  distinct  from  the  solanine  of  potatoes ; 
but  since  the  discovery  of  the  glucoside  nature  of  solanine  in  1859  the  supposed  solanine 
from  bittersweet  does  not  appear  to  have  been  again  examined. 

Wittstein  (1852)  isolated  from  bittersweet  dulcamarine , an  alkaloid  having  a resinous 
appearance  and  the  odor  and  taste  of  the  plant.  E.  Geissler  (1875)  obtained  this  product, 
but  recognized  it  as  a mixture.  He  obtained  dulcamarin,  C^H^O^,  by  digesting  the 
aqueous  infusion  of  bittersweet  with  granular  animal  charcoal,  washing  the  latter,  and 
exhausting  it  with  boiling  alcohol,  evaporating,  dissolving  in  water,  precipitating  with 
ammonia,  and  the  filtrate  therefrom  with  lead  subacetate,  digesting  the  washed  precip- 
itate with  alcohol,  and  decomposing  it  with  hydrogen  sulphide.  It  forms  a yellowish 
powder  of  a strongly  bitter  and  then  sweet  taste,  is  soluble  in  alcohol  and  water,  insolu- 
ble in  ether,  chloroform,  benzene,  carbon  disulphide,  and  petroleum  benzin,  and  is  decom- 
posed by  diluted  acids  into  sugar  and  brown,  tasteless  dulcamaretin. 


DULCAMARA. 


591 


The  other  constituents,  gummy,  resinous,  and  waxy  matters,  are  not  of  medicinal 
importance. 

Admixtures. — The  cut  stems  of  Humulus  Lupulus,  Linne , and  Lonicera  Pericly- 
menum,  Linne , are  said  to  be  occasionally  mixed  with  dulcamara  in  Europe ; they  have 
none  of  the  characteristics  of  the  latter. 

Allied  Plants. — Lyeium  vulgare,  Dunal , s.  L.  barbarum,  Linni.  Nat.  Ord. — Solanaceae. 
Matrimony-vine,  E.  This  shrub  is  indigenous  to  the  countries  bordering  on  the  Mediterranean, 
and  is  cultivated  and  wild  in  the  United  States.  It  is  from  3-6  M.  (10  to  20  feet)  high,  and  has 
numerous  slender,  recurved  branches,  which  are  covered  with  a smooth  brownish-gray  bark  and 
armed  with  few  thorns.  The  leaves  are  2-5  Cm.  (1  or  2 inches)  long,  alternate,  oblong-lance- 
olate, entire,  smooth,  shortly  petiolate,  and  often  clustered.  The  greenish-purple  flowers  have 
a tubular  five-lobed  corolla  and  produce  oval  red  two-celled  berries  containing  many  reniform 
seeds.  The  bark  and  leaves  have  a sweetish  and  slightly  bitter  and  acrid  taste.  Husemann 
and  Marme  (1863)  obtained  an  alkaloid,  lycine , C5NHu02.  in  white  prisms,  which  are  deliques- 
cent, sparingly  soluble  in  ether,  and  have  an  acrid  taste  free  from  bitterness.  Husemann  (1875) 
proved  it  to  be  identical  with  betaine , an  alkaloid  isolated  by  Scheibler  (1866)  from  beet-root 
juice,  and,  like  it,  not  preexisting  in  the  plant,  but  formed  from  it  during  the  process  by  the 
action  of  free  acid.  The  leaves  of  lyeium  yielded  a larger  proportion  than  the  branches. 

Lyeium  Afrum,  Linne , of  Northern  Africa,  and  L.  umbrosum,  Humboldt  et  Bonpland , of 
South  America.  The  infusion  of  the  leaves  is  used  in  erysipelas  and  skin  diseases.  Berberis 
Lyeium,  Royle , contains  berberine. 

Action  and  Uses. — In  large  doses  dulcamara  is  stated  by  some  reporters  to  cause 
dryness,  heat,  and  constriction  and  stinging  in  the  throat,  thirst,  and  sometimes  diarrhoea. 
Feeble  persons,  it  is  said,  are  apt  to  experience  twitching  of  the  eyelids  and  lips,  with 
tremulousness  of  the  limbs ; the  head  is  heavy  and  giddy,  and  a cyanotic  hue  of  the  face 
and  hands  may  be  observed,  and  sometimes  an  erythematous  eruption  of  the  skin,  with 
a tendency  to  diaphoresis.  The  action  of  dulcamara  upon  the  heart  is  not  definitely 
determined,  but  it  probably  renders  the  circulation  slower  and  more  languid.  Dulcamara, 
it  has  been  alleged,  produces  itching  and  heat  in  the  female  organs  of  generation,  with 
painful  strangury,  and  sometimes  even  venereal  desires ; while,  on  the  other  hand,  to  it 
has  been  attributed  a power  of  subduing  the  morbidly-active  sexual  appetite.  It  is 
proper  to  state  that  Dr.  John  Harley  experimented  upon  man  with  the  expressed  juice, 
and  also  with  the  tincture,  in  small  and  large  doses,  without  any  appreciable  physiologi- 
cal effect. 

So-called  scientific  therapeutists  have  denied  any  curative  virtues  to  dulcamara,  because 
they  were  unable  to  explain  those  it  is  alleged  to  possess  according  to  their  notions  of  its 
mode  of  action.  Such  a reason  may,  in  a logical  sense,  be  called  impertinent.  The 
claims  of  dulcamara  rest  on  the  same  grounds  as  those  of  opium,  mercury,  and  cinchona — 
the  ground  of  clinical  experience.  It  was  long  used  as  a popular  remedy,  and  subse- 
quently by  physicians,  for  cutaneous  eruptions , both  internally  and  externally,  and 
especially  for  psoriasis  and  other  scaly  diseases  of  the  skin,  and  also  for  acne,  impetigo, 
chronic  eczema,  and  ecthyma.  It  is  said  to  be  most  apt  to  cure  those  diseases  when 
they  occur  in  persons  of  a strumous  habit.  It  has  had  considerable  repute  as  a remedy 
for  chronic  muscular  rheumatism , and  also  in  chronic  bronchitis , whooping  cough , and 
other  chronic  pulmonary  affections  in  which  cough  is  a prominent  symptom.  An 
anaphrodisiac  property  was  ascribed  to  dulcamara  by  Dr.  W.  P.  Dewees,  who  observed 
that  a patient  who  was  taking  it  for  a disease  of  the  skin  lost  his  venereal  desire.  On 
discontinuing  the  use  of  the  medicine  the  patient’s  normal  function  was  restored,  but  on 
resuming  its  use  again  the  original  effect  was  repeated.  In  five  cases  in  which  Dr. 
Thomas  Harris  employed  it  the  venereal  appetite  was  suspended  during  its  use.  Dr. 
Dewees  prescribed  it  successfully  in  cases  of  nymphomania  and  satyriasis  ( Amer . Cyclo- 
paedia of  Med.  and  Surg.,  ii.  23). 

Dulcamara  is  best  used  in  decoction,  which  is  made  from  the  fresh  young  branches 
Clj  to  9-  s.  of  water,  reduced  by  boiling  for  fifteen  minutes,  then  adding  water  to  make  a 
pint).  The  infusion  and  the  fluid  extract  may  also  be  employed.  It  must  be  long  con- 
tinued to  produce  its  curative  effects. 

Solanine  has  been  alleged  to  control  the  vomiting  of  pregnancy,  to  lessen  the  cough 
and  expectoration  in  chronic  bronchitis,  and  to  palliate  spasmodic  asthma  and  the  pain  of 
muscular  rheumatism.  As  an  analgesic  it  has  been  recommended  by  Geneuil  and  others  in 
various  neuralgiae,  including  those  due  to  spinal  disease ; but  the  greater  number  pro- 
nounce its  action  uncertain  or  valueless  (Guinard,  Bull,  de  Therap .,  cxiii.  21).  An 
exception  to  this  statement  occurs  in  Sarda’s  conclusions  from  clinical  observation.  He 
asserts  that  solanine  is  an  excellent  analgesic,  especially  in  chronic  neuralgiae  following 


592 


ECBALLII  FRUCTUS. 


neuritis;  that  it  allays  gastric  pains  and  those  of  locomotor  ataxia  and  other  motor 
disorders  of  spinal  origin,  such  as  tremor  due  to  insular  sclerosis  of  the  cord,  and  the 
exaggerated  reflex  movements  of  epileptoid  tremor  (ibid.,  cxiv.  433).  Muriate  of 
solanine  may  be  given  internally  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.5-0.10  (gr.  j-ij)  in  pill,  wafer,  or  in 
liquid  vaseline.  The  dose  may  be  rapidly  increased  to  Gm.  0.40-0.50  (6  or  8 grs.)  a day. 
It  has  been  given  hypodermically,  but  with  less  advant.ge ; the  sulphate  so  administered 
has  proved  very  irritating. 

Solanum  PANICULATUM  is  said  to  be  used  by  South  American  physicians  as  a tonic, 
antiblennorrhagic,  antisyphilitic,  diuretic,  antiperiodic  medicine,  but  particularly  in  vesical 
catarrh  and  as  a drastic.  Other  species  are  also  employed  medicinally.  A conclusive 
examination  of  the  subject  has  not  yet  been  made  (Therap.  Monatsheft , iii.  125). 
Solanum  carolinense  was  once  reputed  to  be  useful  in  idiopathic  tetanus,  and  Porcher 
states  that  it  has  some  reputation  among  the  negroes  of  South  Carolina  as  an  aphrodisiac. 
According  to  Napier  ( Virginia  Med.  Monthly , Sept.  1889),  it  has  cured  convulsions  of 
different  sorts  when  given  in  a tincture  to  the  production  of  drowsiness. 


ECBALLII  FRUCTUS,  Br. — Squirting-Cucumber  Fruit. 


Cucumis  asininus,  Oucumis  agrestis. — Wild  cucumber, 
d'  Cine),  Fr.  ; Springgurke,  Esels-Kiirbis , Spritzgurke,  G. 


E.  ; Concombre  sauvage  (purgatif 
; Cohambrillo  amargo,  Sp. 


The  fruit  of  the  squirting  cucumber,  Ecballium  (Momordica,  Linne ) Elaterium,  A- 

3ste,  Reichenbach,  s.  Elaterium  cordifolium, 
plate  34;  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 115. 


Richard,  s. 


Ecb.  officinale,  Nees , s.  Ecb. 


Fig.  107. 


Moench.  Step,  and  Church,  Med.  Bot., 

Nat.  Orel. — Cucurbitaceae. 

Origin. — The  plant  is  a common  weed  in  dry  and  waste  places  in  Southern  Europe, 
and  eastward  thence  to  Persia.  It  has  a perennial,  fleshy,  white  root,  a trailing,  succu- 
lent, bristly  stem  0.6  to  1.2  M.  (2  to  4 feet)  long,  alternate,  bristly,  bluntly-triangular, 
and  cordate  leaves,  and  unisexual  monoecious  flowers  with  deeply  five-lobed,  yellow,  and 
veined  corollas.  The  plant  is  cultivated  to  a small  extent  for  medicinal  purpose  in  Ger- 
many, France,  and  at  Mitcham  and  Hitchin  in  England,  the  seeds  being  sown  about 
March,  the  seedlings  planted  out  in  June,  and  the  nearly  ripe  fruit  collected  in  August 
or  early  in  September. 

Description. — The  fruit  is  nodding  from  the  recurved  stalk,  5 Cm.  (2  inches)  or  less 
in  length,  about  25  Mm.  (1  inch)  thick,  oblong,  and  somewhat  tapering  above,  pale-green, 

beset  with  fleshy  prickles,  three-celled,  and  contains 
a bitter  watery,  mucilaginous  juice  in  which  the 
numerous  oblong,  compressed,  polished,  light-brown 
seeds  are  immersed.  When  mature  the  fruit  be- 
comes yellowish,  and  separates  suddenly  from  the 
stalk,  at  the  same  time  violently  expelling  the  juice 
and  seeds  from  the  orifice  formed  at  the  base.  The 
fruit  is  collected  with  the  stalk  when  almost  ripe  for 
preparing  elaterium. 

Elaterium,  Br. — Elaterium,  E.,  Fr.,  G.;  Ela- 
terio,  Sp.  The  following  process  is  given  for  its 
preparation : Take  of  Squirting-Cucumber  fruit, 
very  nearly  ripe,  1 pound.  Cut  the  fruit  length- 
wise and  lightly  press  out  the  juice.  Strain  it 
through  a hair-sieve  and  set  it  aside  to  deposit. 
Carefully  pour  off  the  supernatant  liquor,  pour  the 
sediment  on  a linen  filter,  and  dry  it  on  porous  tiles 
with  a gentle  heat.  The  decanted  fluid  may  de- 
posit a second  portion  of  sediment,  which  can  be 
dried  in  the  same  way. — Br. 

This  is  essentially  the  process  recommended  by 
Dr.  Clutterbuck  (1820),  except  that  he  directs  the 
surface  of  the  fruit  to  be  moistened  with  cold  water, 
thus  preventing  the  juice  from  adhering,  and  the 
split  fruit  to  be  rinsed  in  cold  water  for  recovering  the  juice  adhering  to  the  inside. 
With  an  increased  pressure  a larger  amount  of  juice  and  of  deposit  is  obtained,  but  the 
latter  is  then  of  inferior  quality.  The  deposited  elaterium  may  be  dried  with  a very 
moderate  heat,  but  exposure  to  the  sunshine  should  be  avoided.  Clutterbuck  obtained 


Ecballium  officinarum,  Richard. 


ELASTIC  A. 


593 


only  6 grains  of  elaterium  from  forty  specimens  of  squirting  cucumber  ; with  slight 
pressure  40  pounds  of  the  fruit  will  generally  yield  \ ounce,  and  in  warm,  dry  seasons 
even  f ounce,  of  elaterium. 

Elaterium  is  in  light,  friable,  flat,  or  slightly  incurved,  cake-like  fragments,  frequently 
marked  on  their  surfaces  with  the  impression  of  the  linen  or  paper  on  which  the}7  were 
dried.  When  fresh  it  has  a pale-green  color,  changing  by  age  to  gray,  and  then  often 
containing  minute  sparkling  crystals  on  the  surface.  It  breaks  with  a fine  granular 
fracture,  and  has  a slight  tea-like  odor  and  an  acrid  and  bitter  taste.  It  does  not  effer- 
vesce with  acids  ; a cooled  decoction  of  it  is  not  colored  blue  or  is  but  slightly  tinged  by 
solution  of  iodine,  showing  the  neirly  complete  absence  of  starch.  It  yields  half  its 
weight  to  boiling  rectified  spirit ; and  this  solution,  on  being  concentrated  and  added  to 
warm  solution  of  potassa,  deposits  on  cooling  not  less  than  20  per  cent,  of  elaterin  in 
colorless  crystals. — Br. 

Constituents. — The  analyses  of  Braconnot,  Paris,  Marquart,  Landerer,  and  Koehler 
indicate  the  presence  in  the  fruit  of  resin,  pectin,  and  albuminous  and  gummy  matters, 
but  besides  elaterin  no  compound  of  importance*  (See  Elaterinum.)  According  to 
Koehler  (1869),  the  juice  contains  only  3.5  per  cent,  of  organic  and  1.5  per  cent,  of  inor- 
ganic constituents. 

Walz  (1859)  obtained  from  the  entire  plant  collected  with  the  root  the  following  prin- 
ciples, which  are  stated  to  be  present  likewise  in  elaterium  : 

Prophetin , also  found  in  the  fruit  of  Cucumis  prophetarum,  LinnS , a yellowish  powder, 
slightly  soluble  in  water,  more  in  alcohol,  freely  in  ether ; precipitated  by  tannin  ; is  a 
glucoside ; ecbalin  or  elateric  acid , resin-like,  bitter,  and  acrid,  soluble  in  alkalies,  alcohol, 
ether,  and  in  20  parts  of  water;  hydro-elaterin , amorphous,  soluble  in  water,  alcohol,  ether, 
and  alkalies ; is  not  a glucoside ; elaterid,  very  bitter,  insoluble  in  wTater  and  ether,  soluble 
in  alcohol  and  alkalies,  also  in  concentrated  acids. 

ELASTICA,  77,  S. — India-rubber. 

Resina  s.,  Gummi  elusticum. — Caoutchouc , E , Fr.  Cod.;  Kautschuk,  Federharz , G.  ; 
Cahuchu , Goma  elastica , Sp. 

The  prepared  milk-juice  of  various  species  of  Hevea,  known  in  commerce  as  Para  rubber. 

Nat.  Ord. — Euphorbiaceae. 

Origin. — Caoutchouc  exists  in  the  milk-juice  of  a very  large  number  of  plants  in  the 
form  of  minute  or  larger  granules,  frequently  associated  with  starch-granules,  and  kept 
in  suspension  by  mucilage.  Plants  capable  of  yielding  caoutchouc  are  found  in  all  parts 
of  the  world,  and  belong  mostly  to  the  natural  orders  of  Euphorbiaceae,  Urticaceae,  Apo- 
cynaceae,  and  Asclepiadaceae,  but  only  species  growing  in  the  tropics  yield  the  product  in 
large  quantity. 

Hevea  guyanensis,  Aublet , s.  Siphonia,  ( Jatropha,  Linne  JUius ) elastica,  Persoon. 
This  is  a handsome  tree  about  18  M.  (60  feet)  high,  with  alternate  trifoliate  leaves, 
the  leaflets  being  obovate,  about  10  Cm.  (4  inches)  long,  dark  green  and  glossy 
above  and  whitish-green  beneath.  It  is  a native  of  Guiana  and  Northern  Brazil,  and 
yields  the  Para  rubber,  which  is  regarded  as  one  of  the  best  varieties.  Manihot 
Glaziovii,  Muller , is  the  source  of  Ceara  rubber ; flancornia  speciosa,  Gomez  (Apocynaceae), 
yields  Mangabeira  rubber.  Similar  products  are  obtained  from  Hevea  (Siphonia,  K unfit ) 
brasiliensis,  Muller , Hevea  discolor,  M idler,  and  other  euphorbiaceous  trees  of  Brazil,  and 
in  Central  America  from  Castilloa  elastica,  Cervantes , Cast.  Markhamiana,  Collins  (Arto- 
carpeae),  and  others. 

Ficus  (Urostigma,  MiqueT)  elastica,  Roxburgh  (Urticaceae,  Artocarpeae).  It  is  a hand- 
some East  Indian  tree,  and  is  not  unfrequently  seen  here  in  hot-houses.  It  has  large, 
leathery,  oval,  and  entire  leaves,  which  are  dark-green  and  glossy  above.  Ficus  indica, 
Linne , F.  religiosa,  Linne , and  several  other  species  also  furnish  caoutchouc  which  is  con- 
sidered inferior  to  that  of  the  preceding  and  following  species : 

Urceola  elastica,  Roxburgh  (Apocynaceae).  It  is  a large  climbing  shrub  indigenous 
to  the  Malayan  Archipelago,  and  has  opposite,  ovate-oblong,  and  pointed  leaves.  Together 
with  Urceola  (Chavanesia,  De  Candolle)  esculenta,  Be.ntha.rn , and  other  species,  it  viclds 
Penang  and  Borneo  caoutchouc,  while  Chittagong  caoutchouc  is  prepared  from  Willugh- 
beia  edulis,  Roxburgh , and  allied  Apocynaceae. 

Landolphia  gummifera,  Lamarck:  (Apocynaceae),  of  South-eastern  Africa,  Landolphia 
florida,  Bentham , Urostigma  Vogelii,  Miquel  (Artocarpeae),  and  other  plants  of  Western 
Africa,  yield  also  caoutchouc. 

38 


594 


ELASTIC  A. 


Preparation. — In  South  America  the  white  milk-juice,  obtained  from  incisions  made 
through  the  bark,  is  dried  upon  clay  moulds  which  are  dipped  into  the  liquid,  and  sus- 
pended over  a fire  ; the  dipping  is  repeated  until  the  layer  of  caoutdhouc  has  the  desired 
thickness,  when  it  is  removed  from  the  mould.  In  India  the  juice  is  allowed  to  dry  in 
masses  or  is  formed  into  balls. 

Description. — Occasionally  the  natural  exudation  is  seen  as  a white  or  yellowish 
milk-like  liquid,  having  a cream-like  consistence  and  an  unpleasant  odor ; it  contains 
about  32  per  cent,  of  caoutchouc.  This  is  more  generally  met  with  either  in  the  form 
of  hollow  clavate  or  hollow-shaped  pieces,  or  in  layers  5 or  8 Cm.  (2  or  3 inches)  thick, 
externally  of  a blackish  or  dark-brown  color,  and  internally  pale-brownish  or  whitish, 
and  somewhat  porous.  In  this  condition  it  is  tough  and  very  elastic,  the  elasticity  being 
increased  at  a somewhat  elevated  temperature,  aud  considerably  lessened  near  the  freez- 
ing-point, though  caoutchouc  does  not  thereby  become  brittle.  Its  density  varies  between 
0.92  and  0.96.  When  heated  to  125°  C.  (257°  F.)  or  a little  higher  India-rubber  melts,  but 
on  cooling  remains  soft  and  adhesive,  and  ultimately  congeals  to  a brittle  mass  ; heated  to 
a still  higher  temperature,  it  is  decomposed,  and  in  the  open  air  burns  with  a luminous 
sooty  flame.  India-rubber  has  a faint,  peculiar  odor,  and  is  nearly  tasteless.  It  is 
insoluble  in  water  and  in  dilute  acids  and  alkalies;  it  softens  and  swells  when  treated 
with  hot  alcohol  or  with  amylic  alcohol,  and  dissolves  to  a soft  jelly-like  mass  in  carbon 
disulphide,  stronger  ether,  oil  of  turpentine,  and  other  hydrocarbons,  notably  in  petro- 
leum benzin,  benzene,  and  in  the  empyreumatic  oils  obtained  in  the  destructive  distilla- 
tion of  India-rubber ; it  dissolves  more  readily  and  completely  in  chloroform,  and  may  be 
melted  together  with  fats  and  fixed  oils.  When  pure  or  nearly  so  India-rubber  floats  on 
water.  Rubber  tubing  is  apt  to  become  brittle  by  use  and  on  exposure — a change  which 
Mareck  (1881)  found  can  be  prevented  by  keeping  the -tubing  underwater,  which  is  to  be 
occasionally  renewed;  the  outer  layer  of  the  rubber  assumes  a fatty  appearance,  becomes 
lighter,  then  darker,  and  is  improved  for  practical  purposes.  A strong  solution  of  India- 
rubber  or  an  ammoniacal  solution  of  shellac  may  be  employed  as  a cement  for  fastening 
rubber  upon  other  material. 

When  finely  divided,  mixed  with  sulphur,  and  afterward  heated  vulcanized  rubber  is 
obtained  ; this,  however,  is  more  generally  prepared  by  softening  or  dissolving  India- 
rubber  and  combining  it  with  sulphur.  Vulcanized  rubber  is  insoluble  in  the  ordinary 
solvents  of  India-rubber,  and  its  elasticity  is  not  materially  affected  by  a low  temperature. 
Compounds  of  India-rubber  and  sulphur,  with  which  tar,  white  lead,  chalk,  or  other  sub- 
stances have  been  incorporated,  form  hard  rubier  and  ebonite , which  at  an  elevated  tem- 
perature may  be  moulded  or  rolled  into  sheets. 

Composition. — India-rubber  is  a hydrocarbon,  C.20H32,  and  on  destructive  distillation 
yields  caoutchoucin , which  consists  of  two  or  more  polymeric  volatile  oils.  C9H8. 
Pharmaceutical  Uses. — As  an  addition  to  plasters. 

Uses. — The  utility  of  this  substance  in  medicine  depends  chiefly  upon  its  elasticity 
and  impermeability  to  air  and  liquids,  and,  in  the  vulcanized  condition,  upon  the  numer- 
ous mechanical  purposes  which  it  subserves.  Its  elasticity,  especially  when  woven  into 
textile  fabrics,  adapts  it  to  exert  a modified  pressure  upon  various  parts  of  the  body, 
limiting  their  enlargement  and  their  movements,  as  in  cases  of  varicose  veins,  pendulous 
abdomen,  hydrocele,  varicocele,  prolapsus  ani,  umbilical  hernia , etc.  Dr.  Wm.  Barton 
Hopkins  recommends  the  use  of  narrow  strips  of  “ bandage  gum  ” to  compress  sicelled- 
testicle  in  a manner  devised  by  himself  ( Phila . Med.  Times,  xv.  350).  “ Rubber  cloth  ” 

and  thin  sheets  of  caoutchouc  are  very  commonly  used  to  protect  bedding  and  clothing 
from  the  discharges  of  the  sick,  and,  when  worn  next  the  skin,  to  prevent  the  exhalation 
of  the  perspiration,  and  thus  keep  the  skin  constantly  moist  or  to  restrain  the  evapora- 
tion of  liquids  applied  to  it.  In  this  manner, caoutchouc  has  been  extensively  used  in 
treating  eczema  and  psoriasis  and  various  cutaneous  diseases,  as  well  as  burns , ulcers,  and 
other  analogous  lesions,  and  in  protecting  parts  liable  to  neuralgia  or  rheumatism  from 
the  influence  of  vicissitudes  of  weather.  It  is  unnecessary  to  enumerate  the  various 
surgical  instruments  constructed  with  this  material  in  its  more  or  less  flexible  and  elastic 
and  its  hard  or  vulcanized  condition — the  bougies,  catheters,  pessaries,  nipple-shields, 
specula,  syringes,  stomach,  rectal,  drainage,  and  other  tubes,  and  countless  instruments 
which  combine  lightness,  firmness,  durability  , insusceptibility  to  corrosion,  and  at  the 
same  time  cheapness,  in  a degree  unequalled  by  any  metal.  A similar  statement  might 
be  made  of  numerous  articles  of  surgical  apparatus,  orthopaedic  and  others,  including 
artificial  ears,  noses,  hands,  etc.  Caoutchouc  can  scarcely  be  used  for  any  strictly 
medicinal  purpose ; even  the  application  of  it  dissolved  in  chloroform  to  prevent  the 


ELATER1NUM. 


595 


development  of  small-pox  pustules  is  really  mechanical  in  its  action,  and,  moreover,  is 
less  efficient  than  it#was  claimed  to  be. 

ELATERINUM,  U.  S.,  Br.— Elaterin. 

Elaterine , Elatine , Fr. ; Elaterin , G. ; Elaterin  a , Sp. 

Formula  C20H28O5.  Molecular  weight  347.20. 

Preparation. — Elaterin  is  a neutral  principle  prepared  from  elaterium,  and  dis- 
covered by  Hennell  and  by  J.  D.  Morries  (1831).  The  latter  prepared  it  by  evaporating 
the  tincture  of  elaterium  to  an  oily  consistence,  and,  while  still  warm,  pouring  it  into  a 
warm  solution  of  potassa ; in  place  of  which  he  afterward  recommended  boiling  water. 
The  chlorophyll  adhering  to  the  crystals  was  recommended  by  Marquart  (1833)  to  be 
removed  by  careful  washing  with  ether,  or  by  Power  (1875)  preferably  by  agitating  the 
alcoholic  solution  with  benzin.  It  is  not  unlikely,  however,  that  in  this  way  a portion  of 
the  principle  may  be  lost,  for  Buchheim  (1872)  observed  that  on  adding  potassa  to  a hot 
alcoholic  solution  of  elaterin  a compound  soluble  in  water  is  formed.  According  to  him, 
elaterin  is  the  anhydride  of  elateric  acid,  and  converted  into  the  latter  by  heat  alone ; 
hence  the  importance  of  avoiding  heat  in  the  preparation  of  elaterium.  The  best  method 
of  obtaining  elaterin  is  to  exhaust  elaterium  with  chloroform,  from  which  solution  white 
crystals  will  be  immediately  deposited  on  the  addition  of  ether ; after  washing  with  a 
little  ether  and  recrystallizing  from  chloroform  pure  elaterin  will  be  obtained  (Pharma, - 
cographia').  The  yield  varies  to  some  extent ; Morries  (1831)  obtained  between  15  and 
26  per  cent. ; Fliickiger  and  Hanbury  (187X),  27.6  and  33.6 ; Walz  (1859),  even  50 
per  cent.  It  was  observed  by  Marquart  (18§3),  Walz  (1859),  and  Kohler  (1869)  that 
the  amount  of  elaterin  diminishes  very  considerably  in  the  fruit  as  the  season 
advances. 

Properties. — Elaterin  is  in  colorless,  shining,  hexagonal  scales  or  prisms,  which  are 
not  altered  on  exposure,  are  inodorous,  and  have  a somewhat  acrid  and  extremely  bitter 
taste.  They  have  a neutral  reaction  to  test-paper,  are  soluble  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  in 
4250  parts  of  water,  in  1820  parts  of  boiling  water,  in  337  parts  (over  120  parts  of 
alcohol,  Golding  Bird  1840)  of  alcohol,  and  in  34  parts  of  boiling  alcohol,  also  in  543 
parts  (290  parts,  Hennell)  of  ether  and  in  2.4  parts  of  chloroform,  and  insoluble  in  ben- 
zine. Elaterin  is  likewise  soluble  in  amylic  alcohol,  carbon  disulphide,  hot  olive  oil,  and 
oil  of  turpentine.  The  effect  of  potassa  has  been  referred  to  above;  the  acid  body  thereby 
produced  is  inert,  since  1.0  Gm.  of  it  produced  no  effect.  Elaterin  is  not  a glucoside,  and 
its  solutions  are  not  precipitated  by  tannin.  At  190°  C.  (374°  F.)  the  crystals  begin 
to  agglutinate,  and  at  209°  C.  (408.2°  F.)  they  melt  to  a grayish-brown  transparent 
liquid,  which  on  cooling  congeals  to  an  amorphous  mass;  at  a higher  heat  it  gives  off 
white  somewhat  acrid  vapors,  and  burns  with  a sooty  flame,  leaving  no  residue.  Accord- 
ing to  Power  (1875),  elaterin  is  not  changed  by  chlorinated  alkalies.  Solutions  of  the 
alkalies  dissolve  it,  but  on  the  addition  of  an  acid  it  is  precipitated.  Nitric  acid  pro- 
duces, after  several  hours,  a pinkish  tinge,  but  when  heated  at  once  a red  coloration. 
Sulphuric  acid  dissolves  it  with  a deep-red  color,  the  solution  yielding  a brown  precipi- 
tate with  water ; the  color  of  the  solution  gradually  changes  to  deep-brown,  and  ulti- 
mately to  light-green,  on  the  addition  of  a fragment  of  potassium  bichromate  ; when  dis- 
solved in  cold  concentrated  sulphuric  acid,  it  causes  the  latter  to  become  yellow  at  first, 
which  color  gradually  changes  to  a scarlet. — U.  S.  Elaterin  added  to  a few  drops  of 
melted  carbolic  acid,  followed  by  sulphuric  acid,  produces  a magnificent  crimson  color, 
changing  to  orange  and  scarlet. 

An  alcoholic  solution  of  elaterin  should  not  be  precipitated  by  tannic  acid,  mercuric 
chloride,  or  platinic  chloride  test-solutions  (absence  of  and  difference  from,  alkaloids).” — 
U.  S. 

Action  and  Uses. — Elaterium,  however  it  may  be  given  to  dogs  and  rabbits,  does 
not  vomit  or  purge  them,  but  destroys  them  with  tetanoid  phenomena.  In  some  other 
animals  the  subcutaneous  use  of  elaterium  produces  profound  and  fatal  exhaustion.  In 
man  its  internal  use  causes  more  or  less  vomiting,  severe  griping,  and  profuse  watery 
stools,  with  a sense  of  great  debility.  It  is  used  as  a purgative  in  those  cases  only  in 
which  a drastic  operation,  with  profuse  serous  discharges,  is  desired.  Hence  it  may  be 
prescribed  with  great  effect  to  relieve  the  brain  or  the  lungs  threatened  with  the  dangers 
of  congestion,  provided  no  contraindication  exists  in  the  patient’s  debility  or  in  diseases 
of  the  digestive  canal.  It  was  one  of  the  most  renowned  of  the  ancient  remedies  for 
dropsy , and  in  recent  times  it  has  shown  its  power  by  evacuating  serous  collections  which 


596 


ELEMI. 


other  purgatives  and  all  diuretics  failed  to  remove.  It  is,  however,  most  frequently  used 
in  primary  abdominal  dropsy.  Yet  it  is  not  less  useful  in  dropsy  of  cardiac  or  renal 
origin  (provided  that  the  strength  of  the  patient  suffices)  to  remove  the  accumulations 
of  fluid  in  the  connective  tissue  or  in  the  serous  cavities. 

The  variable  strength  of  elaterium  suggests  caution  in  its  use.  Gm.  0.004  (gr.  yL) 
may  be  given  in  a pill  made  with  the  extract  of  hyoscyamus  or  confection  of  roses,  and 
repeated  every  hour  until  the  effects  begin  to  appear.  Elaterin  is  more  active  in  alco- 
holic solution,  or  it  may  be  given  in  the  officinal  (1882)  trituration  of  elaterin.  The 
dose  is  Gm  0.002-0.005  (gr. 

Mormordica  huchu , a curcubitaceous  plant  of  Brazil,  is  said  to  resemble  M.  elaterium 
in  its  action,  which,  however,  is  much  harsher  ( Brit . Med.  Jour.,  May  28,  1887). 

ELEMI,  Br. — Elemi. 

Resina  ( s . Giimmi ) Elemi. — Elemi , Resine  elemi , F. ; Elemi , G. ; Goma  de  limon , 

sP. 

A concrete  resinous  exudation,  the  botanical  source  of  which  is  undetermined,  but  is 
probably  Canarium  commune,  Linne  ( Rumph . Amb.,  vol.  ii.  plate  47).  Chiefly  imported 
from  Manilla.  Br.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 61. 

Nat.  Ord. — Burseracese. 

Origin. — Tile  name  of  elemi  has  been  given  to  various  resinous  products  which  have 
from  time  to  time  appeared  in  commerce,  and  which,  it  is  believed,  are  all  derived  from 
trees  of  the  Nat.  Ord.  Burseraceee.  The  British  Pharmacopoeia  refers  Manilla  elemi,  a 
product  of  the  Philippine  Islands,  to  the  species  named  above,  a tall  tree  indigenous  to 
the  Moluccas  and  to  other  parts  of  tropical  Asia,  while  Blanco  (1845)  states  that  it  is 
obtained  from  Icica  abilo,  a tree  scarcely  known.  Perrottet  (1821)  sent  specimens  of 
the  elemi  tree  to  Paris  and  to  Senegambia,  and  stated  (1823)  that  the  tree  is  scari- 
fied twice  a year,  and  the  flow  of  the  oleoresin  promoted  by  kindling  a fire  near  the  tree. 
Baup  (1851)  believed  Canarium  album,  Rsenschel,  to  be  Perrottet’s  tree  (Fliickiger, 
Pharma kognosie.  Elaphrium  (Bursera)  elemifera,  Royle , is  the  source  of  Mexican 
elemi. 

Description. — Manilla  elemi  is  in  soft  granular,  transparent  masses  when  fresh,  but 
is  generally  met  with  in  the  shops  in  solid  pieces,  which  are  externally  pale  lemon-yellow 
and  clear,  internally  opaque,  nearly  white,  and  mixed  with  chips  and  other  impurities. 

It  breaks  with  a dull  granular  fracture  and  readily  fuses  to  a transparent  liquid.  Moist- 
ened with  alcohol,  it  disintegrates  and  shows  a large  number  of  small  acicular  crystals.  It 
has  a strong  aromatic  somewhat  terebinthinate  odor  and  a warm,  aromatic,  and  acrid  taste. 

Constituents. — Fliickiger  and  H anbury  ( Pharmacographia ) obtained  from  the  drug 

10  per  cent,  of  a colorless,  neutral,  fragrant,  and  strongly  dextrogyre  volatile  oil.  An 

011  of  elemi  obtained  by  H.  St.  Claire-Deville  (1849)  had  a strong  rotatory  power  to  the 
left  and  the  composition  CI0H16. 

On  treating  elemi  with  alcohol,  Maujean  (1823)  obtained  a soluble  amorphous  resin, 
which  Baup  (1851)  named  bre'in,  and  succeeded  in  crystallizing  by  the  very  slow  evap- 
oration of  its  alcoholic  solution.  Maujean’s  insoluble  resin  was  by  Bonastre  (1824)  crys- 
tallized from  its  solution  in  boiling  strong  alcohol ; it  is  Baup’s  amyrin , and,  like  brein, 
is  readily  soluble  in  ether  and  insoluble  in  water.  The  same  author  obtained  also  bry- 
oidin  and  breidin , both  fusible,  the  former  having  a bitter  and  acrid  taste  ; it  is  easily 
soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  and  volatile  and  fixed  oils,  slightly  soluble  in  cold  water,  but 
crystallizes  from  boiling  water,  from  alkaline  solutions,  or  from  dilute  acetic  acid  in  silky 
threads  or  in  moss-like  masses.  Breidin  is  likewise  crystalline,  readily  soluble  in  alcohol, 
less  in  water  or  ether.  E.  Buri  (1876)  gives  to  amyrin  the  formula  (C5H8)5.2H.20.  He 
found  it  to  be  soluble  in  ether,  chloroform,  and  carbon  bisulphide,  to  be  fusible  at  177° 
C.  (350.6°  F.),  and  to  sublime  when  carefully  heated  in  thin  layers.  The  mother-liquors 
of  amyrin  yielded  him  (1878)  elemic  acid , (C5H8)704,  the  potassium  salt  of  which  crys- 
tallizes from  its  strong  alkaline  solution  in  needles. 

Varieties. — The  following  resinous  products  are  sometimes  met  with  as  distinct  varieties  of 
elemi : 

Mauritius  Elemi,  obtained  from  Colophonia  mauritiana,  Commerson , a large  tree  of  Mauri 
tius ; it  is  at  first  liquid,  and  resembles  the  Manila  elemi. 

Mexican  Elemi,  is  in  light-  or  dark-yellow  somewhat  greenish  masses,  of  a waxy  lustre,  trans- 
lucent or  opaque,  friable,  but  readily  softening  in  the  mouth. 

Brazilian  Elemi,  collected  from  Icica  Icicariba,  De  Candolle , and  other  species  of  the  same 
genus ; it  forms  soft  yellowish-white  or  solid  pale  or  greenish-yellow  masses. 


ELIXIRIA.— ELIXIR  AROMATICUM. 


597 


All  these  varieties  have  a similar  though  not  identical  odor,  and  disintegrate  when  treated 
with  cold  alcohol,  with  the  separation  of  small  crystals,  which  are  probably  identical  with 
amyrin. 

The  decamalee  resin  of  India,  which  resembles  elemi,  is  the  exudation  of  Gardenia  gummifera, 
Linni,  and  G.  lucida,  Roxburgh , Nat.  Ord.  Rubiacese. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  qualities  of  elemi  are  analogous  to  those  of  the  turpen- 
tines, and  it  might  probably  be  used  for  the  same  purposes  internally.  It  is,  however, 
only  employed  as  an  external  application,  in  plaster  or  ointment,  as  a dressing  for  blis- 
ters, issues , indolent  ulcers , etc.  In  this  country  it  is  rarely  prescribed.  Oil  of  elemi  is 
analogous  in  its  action  to  oil  of  turpentine. 

ELIXIRIA. — Elixirs. 

Elixirs , Fr. ; Elixir e,  G. 

The  word  “elixir”  is  of  ancient  origin,  and  according  to  Dr.  Rice,  was  derived  by  the 
Arabs  from  the  Greek  word  grjpiov : it  was  formerly  used  by  alchemists  to  designate 
the  wonderful  transformation-powder,  a pinch  of  which  would  suffice  to  convert  large 
quantities  of  base  metal  into  silver  and  gold.  Gradually  the  term  was  also  applied  to 
liquids  claimed  to  possess  the  same  magical  powers,  and  still  later  the  word  “elixir”  was 
used  to  designate  certain  compound  tinctures  possessing  rare  medicinal  properties,  as  for 
instance,  Elixir  ad  longam  vitam,  which  was  supposed  to  induce  longevity.  In  this  lat- 
ter sense  the  term  elixir  is  still  used  to  some  extent  in  continental  Europe,  and,  as  a rule, 
such  preparations  are  characterized  by  an  unpleasant  taste.  In  modern  American  phar- 
macy the  word  has  come  to  mean  an  entirely  different  class  of  preparations,  the  distin- 
guishing features  of  which  are  a pleasantly  aromatic  sweet  taste  and  the  presence  of  alco- 
hol, varying  from  20  to  25  per  cent,  by  volume.  Prior  to  1865  only  two  elixirs  of  this 
kind  were  used  to  any  extent  in  this  country — namely  elixir  of  calisaya  and  elixir  of 
ammonium  valerianate.  Through  the  efforts  of  enterprising  manufacturers  the  list  of 
elixirs  was  rapidly  augmented,  and  reached  its  height  between  1870  and  1875.  Grad- 
ually, however,  a reaction  set  in,  and  at  the  present  day  many  once-popular  elixirs  have 
fallen  into  disuse.  There  can  be  no  doubt  that  a sweet,  aromatic,  and  slightly  alcoholic 
liquid  forms  a pleasant  vehicle  for  many  remedies,  but  the  presence  of  alcohol  in  some 
instances  is  positively  injurious,  and  moreover  the  active  ingredients  are  frequently  pres- 
ent only  in  minute  quantities.  The  U.  S.  Ph.  recognizes  but  two  elixirs- — the  aromatic 
elixir  and  elixir  of  phosphorus,  the  former  chiefly  as  a base  for  the  ready  preparation  of 
many  others.  In  the  National  Formulary,  published  by  the  American  Pharm.  Associa- 
tion (a  book  which  every  physician  and  pharmacist  should  have),  will  be  found  no  less 
than  86  formulas  for  elixirs,  and  a still  larger  number  (nearly  275)  have  been  published 
by  J.  U.  Lloyd  in  his  Elixirs  and  Flavoring  Extracts  (1892). 

As  it  is  desirable  in  many  instances  to  impart  a color  to  the  elixir,  it  should  be  borne 
in  mind  that  not  all  coloring  agents  are  equally  well  suited  for  acid  and  alkaline  liquids  ; 
for  the  former  class  as  well  as  for  neutral  liquids,  the  National  Formulary  recommends 
the  simple  or  compound  tincture  of  cudbear,  of  either  of  which  2 drachms  will  suffice  to 
color  a pint  of  elixir.  For  alkaline  liquids  it  is  best  to  use  a solution  made  as  follows: 
Carmine  No.  40,  60  grains  ; Glycerin  and  Distilled  Water,  each  4 fluidounces ; Ammonia- 
water,  a sufficient  quantity  ; triturate  the  carmine  with  the  water,  gradually  adding  ammo- 
nia-water until  the  carmine  has  all  been  dissolved  and  a dark-red  liquid  is  obtained;  to 
this  add  the  glycerin  and  mix  (Lloyd). 

ELIXIR  AROMATICUM,  U.  S.-  Aromatic  Elixir. 

Simple  Elixir , E. ; Elixir  aromatique , Fr. ; Aromatisches  Elixir , G. 

Preparation. — Compound  Spirit  of  Orange.  12  Cc. ; Syrup,  375  Cc. ; Precipitated 
Calcium  Phosphate,  15  Gm. ; Deodorized  Alcohol,  Distilled  Water,  each  of  a sufficient 
quantity  to  make  1000  Cc.  To  the  compound  spirit  of  orange  add  enough  deodorized 
alcohol  to  make  250  Cc.  To  this  solution  add  the  syrup  in  several  portions,  agitating 
after  each  addition,  and  afterward  add  in  the  same  manner  375  Cc.  of  distilled  water. 
Mix  the  precipitated  calcium  phosphate  intimately  with  the  liquid,  and  then  filter  through 
a wetted  filter,  returning  the  first  portions  of  the  filtrate  until  it  passes  through  clear. 
Lastly,  wash  the  filter  with  a mixture  of  1 volume  of  deodorized  alcohol  and  3 volumes 
of  distilled  water,  until  the  product  measures  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

To  prepare  2 pints  of  aromatic  elixir  will  require  3 fluidrachms  of  compound  spirit  of 


598 


ELIXIR  PHOSPHOR!— EMPLASTRA. 


orange,  12  fluidounces  of  syrup,  8 fluidounces  of  deodorized  alcohol,  £ an  oz.  of  calcium 
phosphate,  and  sufficient  distilled  water  to  make  the  volume  32  fluidounces. 

Uses. — This  preparation  is  an  aromatic  flavoring  agent,  and  may  be  used  as  a car- 
minative. 


ELIXIR  PHOSPHORI,  ZJ.  S, — Elixir  of  Phosphorus. 

Preparation. — Spirit  of  Phosphorus,  210  Cc. ; Oil  of  Anise,  2 Cc. ; Glycerin,  550 
Cc. ; Aromatic  Elixir,  a sufficient  quantity  to  make  1000  Cc.  To  the  spirit  of  phos- 
phorus, contained  in  a graduated  bottle,  add  the  oil  of  anise  and  glycerin,  and  mix  them 
by  repeatedly  inverting  the  bottle  until  they  form  a clear  liquid.  Then  add  enough  aro- 
matic elixir,  in  several  portions,  gently  agitating  after  each  addition,  until  a clear  mixture 
results.  Keep  the  product  in  dark  amber-colored,  well-stoppered  bottles  in  a cool  and 
dark  place.  Each  Cc.  of  elixir  of  phosphorus  represents  about  0.00025  Gm.  of  phos- 
phorus.— V.  S. 

To  prepare  1 pint  of  elixir  of  phosphorus  will  require  3J  fluidounces  of  spirit  of 
phosphorus,  16  minims  of  oil  of  anise,  9 fluidounces  of  glycerin,  and  sufficient  aromatic 
elixir  to  make  the  volume  16  fluidounces.  Each  fluiarachm  of  the  finished  elixir  will 
contain  about  -fa  grain  of  phosphorus. 

Uses. — This  aromatised  alcoholic  solution  of  phosphorus  may  be  prescribed  in  doses  of 
Gm-  4 (f33)- 


EMPLASTRA. — Plasters. 

Empldtres , Fr. ; Pflaster , G. ; Empiastri , It. ; Emplastos,  Sp. 

Plasters  are  solid  tenacious  preparations  intended  for  external  use,  considerably  harder 
than  cerates,  so  that  they  cannot  be  spread  at  the  ordinary  temperature,  yet  of  such  a 
composition  that  they  will  be  pliable  and  adhesive  at  the  temperature  of  the  body. 
According  to  their  composition  they  are  distinguished  into  two  classes — namely,  plasters 
properly  so  called  (stearates  of  the  French),  the  base  of  which  consists  of  a fusible  and 
insoluble  lead  soap ; and  resinous  plasters , which  owe  their  adhesiveness  to  a resin  mixed 
with  some  wax  or  fat,  and  for  this  reason  are  called  ointment-plasters  (pnguents-empldtres 
by  the  French)  ; they  are  the  retinoles  solides , or  hard  resin-fats,  of  Guibourt. 

The  preparation  of  all  plasters  containing  more  than  one  ingredient  is  effected  in  a 
manner  similar  to  that  of  the  cerates,  with  such  modifications  as  are  necessitated  by  their 
greater  firmness  and  higher  fusing-point.  The  simple  plaster  or  the  resin  is  first  liquefied, 
care  being  taken  to  avoid  too  high  a heat  ,*  the  wax,  fat,  or  other  fusible  substances  are 
then  added,  and  lastly  oleoresins  and  aromatic  products  which  would  be  injured  by  long- 
continued  heat,  and  gum-resins  or  other  substances  which  are  infusible  and  must  be 
mechanically  incorporated  with  the  solidifying  plaster.  The  latter  may  be  accomplished 
in  several  ways,  according  to  the  nature  of  the  substances  to  be  added : they  are  either 
rubbed  fine  and  to  a perfectly  smooth  paste  with  some  fat,  volatile  oil,  or  oleoresin,  or 
they  are  finely  powdered  and  passed  through  a sieve  into  the  cooling  plaster,  which  is 
then  to  be  stirred  until  firm  enough  to  prevent  the  mechanical  admixtures  from  separat- 
ing. If  extracts  are  to  be  incorporated,  they  should,  if  possible,  be  prepared  with  strong 
alcohol,  so  as  to  be  fusible  with  the  other  ingredients  of  the  plaster.  Most  gum-resins 
are  not  completely  fusible  or  readily  pulverizable,  and  are  therefore  best  converted  into  a 
smooth  paste  in  the  manner  indicated  above.  The  use  of  some  petroleum  benzin  during 
the  trituration  will  often  be  found  advantageous  for  accomplishing  the  object  in  view. 

Straining  is  best  avoided  in  preparing  plasters.  Should  it  be  found  necessary,  it  is 
never  to  be  deferred  until  the  infusible  ingredients  have  been  added,  but  performed,  with 
the  smallest  possible  bulk  and  with  those  portions  of  the  material  having  the  lowest 
fusing-point.  On  the  whole,  however,  it  will  be  found  more  advantageous  and  expedi- 
tious, more  particularly  for  the  extemporaneous  preparation  of  plasters,  to  use  only 
purified  ingredients,  so  that  straining  may  not  be  required. 

For  convenience  in  handling  and  dispensing  plasters  are  rolled  into  cylinders  of  con- 
venient thickness.  A slab  or  thick  board  is  suitable  for  the  purpose.  The  melted  plaster 
is  allowed  to  cool  until  it  is  of  a soft,  pliable  consistence,  when  a convenient  quantity  is 
transferred  to  the  slab  previously  moistened  with  water,  and  then  kneaded  with  the 
moistened  hand  and  rolled  out  to  the  desired  thickness ; when  larger  quantities  are  thus 


EM  PL  ASTRA. 


599 


to  be  rolled  out  a smooth  and  straight  board  will  be  convenient  as  a roller,  with  its  ends 
supported  by  ledges,  whereby  uniform  thickness  is  secured.  Plasters  which  contain 
vegetable  powders  or  other  substances  soluble  in  water  are  treated  in  the  same  manner 
except  that  the  water  is  replaced  by  olive  or  a similar  bland  and  non-drying  oil.  The 
most  convenient  size  of  such  rolls  or  sticks  is,  for  dispensing  purposes,  about  the  thickness 
of  a finger  or  even  smaller.  They  keep  well  if  they  are  wrapped  in  wax-  or  paraffin- 
paper.  The  soft  plasters  are  sometimes  poured  into  boxes  or  kept  in  square  cakes,  the 
latter  being  cast  in  tin  or  paper  moulds,  as  described  under  Cerates  (see  page  432). 

Plasters  are  usually  spread  upon  white  sheepskin  ; for  particular  purposes  chamois- 
skin,  linen,  muslin,  or  even  paper  (see  Charts,  page  442),  may  be  used.  The  leather  is 
extended  and  fastened  upon  a smooth  board,  and  the  desired  size  and  shape  are  marked 
upon  it  either  by  pasting  strips  of  paper  on  it  or  using  tin  frames  of  the  requisite  size 
and  shape.  Sometimes  an  apparatus  is  used  consisting  of  a block  of  hard  wood  with  an 
even  or  somewhat  convex  surface,  over  which  a sheet-iron  frame  is  fitted,  cut  out  to  the 
dimensions  and  shape  of  the  plaster  to  be  spread,  and  covering  sufficient  leather  to 
serve  for  a margin.  For  rectangular  plasters  it  is  convenient  to  have  two  L-shaped 
pieces  of  sheet  tin,  each  side  of  which  is  graduated  in  inches,  commencing  from  the 
angle ; by  bringing  the  angle  of  one  diagonally  opposite  to  that  of  the  other  piece  a rect- 
angular or  square  outline  of  any  desired  size  may  be  formed.  When  the  leather  has 
been  properly  prepared,  a sufficient  quantity  of  the  plaster  is  to  be  fused  by  a moderate 
heat  and  with  frequent  stirring  to  avoid  burning,  and  while  still  liquid  is  poured  upon 
the  leather  and  spread  by  means  of  a warm  stout  pallet-knife,  with  sufficient  pressure  to 
obtain  a smooth  and  even  surface.  Various  plaster-spreaders,  with  long  and  short, 
straight  and  curved  handles,  have  been  constructed,  the  spreader  generally  being  a solid 
square  or  triangular  piece  of  iron,  which,  once  heated,  will  remain  warm  for  a sufficient 
length  of  time  to  soften  such  portions  of  the  plaster  as  may  become  hard  until  the  whole 
has  been  evenly  spread.  Sometimes  the  spreader  or  blade  is  made  hollow,  for  the  pur- 
pose of  introducing  boiling  water  or  a heater  to  maintain  the  necessary  temperature. 
But  with  some  practice  the  pallet-knife  will  be  found  quite  sufficient  for  the  ordinary 
sizes  of  plaster.  The  consistence  at  which  the  fused  mass  should  be  poured  upon  the 
leather  is  of  importance ; if  it  be  too  thin,  it  will  partly  pass  through  the  material  and 
stain  the  outer  surface ; if  too  thick,  it  w ill  congeal  before  it  can  be  spread  out,  and 
require  reheating  by  means  of  the  plaster  iron,  and  is  then  apt  to  become  too  fluid  For 
true  plasters  a temperature  of  50°  to  55°  C.  (120°  to  130°  F.)  will  be  found  to  give  the 
proper  consistence;  resinous  plasters  containing  wax  or  fats  should  be  cooled  to  a still 
lower  degree.  So-called  porous  planters  have  been  used  for  some  years  past.  To  per- 
forate spread  plasters  extemporaneously,  Prof.  Remington  (1878)  devised  a tool  consisting 
of  a brass  wheel  f inch  wide,  and  studded  with  sixteen  punches  in  two  alternating  rows 
? inch  apart.  The  wheel  revolves  around  a steel  axle,  which  is  connected  with  a handle 
9 inches  long,  by  means  of  which  the  requisite  pressure  is  obtained. 

The  amount  of  plaster  necessary  for  spreading  a given  area  will  depend  partly  upon 
the  nature  of  the  plaster  and  partly  upon  the  thickness  to  which  it  is  spread ; on  an 
average,  10  grains  will  be  found  sufficient  for  1 square  inch  of  surface  To  prevent  the 
clothes  from  becoming  soiled,  and  to  facilitate  the  removal  of  the  plaster,  a margin  of 
about  l inch  is  left  around  the  spread  surface. 

In  European  pharmacy  the  term  sparadrap  is  used  to  designate  plasters  which,  like 
adhesive,  court,  and  similar  plasters,  consist  of  adhesive  substances  thinly  spread  upon 
certain  kinds  of  muslin,  silk,  or  paper.  They  are  prepared  in  various  ways,  according  to 
the  nature  of  the  adhesive  material ; twTo  of  these,  capsicum  plaster  and  court  plaster, 
have  now  been  admitted  into  the  U.  S.  P.  True  plasters,  to  be  made  into  sparadraps, 
require  an  apparatus  generally  consisting  of  a smooth  board,  upon  which  rests  in  an 
upright  position  a kind  of  trough  into  which  the  melted  plaster  is  put ; the  trough  is 
provided  below  with  a slit  through  which  the  plaster  escapes ; the  cambric  or  other 
material  is  guided  by  rulers  while  being  drawn  underneath  the  trough,  which  must  be 
kept  sufficiently  warm  to  prevent  the  plaster  from  becoming  too  firm,  and  should  be  so 
constructed  as  to  act  not  merely  as  a scraper,  but  likewise  to  press  upon  the  material 
beneath  sufficiently  for  spreading  the  plaster  thinly  but  evenly.  Paper  sparadraps  are 
made  in  the  same  manner.  (See  also  Charta,  page  442.)  (For  a figure  and  description 
of  an  apparatus  suitable  for  the  purpose  see  Amer.  Jour.  Pharmacy , 1869,  p.  455.) 

When  kept  for  a long  time  plasters  are  apt  to  become  brittle.  With  rolled  plasters  the 
cause  may  be  found  partly  in  the  removal  of  the  glycerin.  If  not  otherwise  injured, 
they  may  be  usually  restored  by  fusing  them  carefully  over  a little  water  and  incorpor- 


600 


EMPLASTR UM  AMMONIAC I CUM  HYDRARGYRO. 


ating  with  the  melted  mass  ^ to  1 per  cent,  of  olive  oil.  To  restore  the  adhesiveness  of 
spread  plasters  is  often  a difficult  matter,  and  must  in  all  cases  depend  upon  the  nature 
of  the  plaster.  Heating  the  surface  of  the  plaster  until  it  becomes  soft,  covering  the 
softened  surface  with  a solution  of  turpentine  or  Canada  balsam,  and  then  laying  aside 
the  plaster  for  a day,  will  usually  accomplish  the  object.  Manufacturers  of  plasters  on 
a large  scale  make  use  of  rubber  or  caoutchouc  as  a base,  which  has  the  tendency  to  keep 
the  plasters  pliable  and  adhesive.  For  this  purpose  the  crude  rubber  is  first  freed  from 
foreign  matters  by  continuous  washing  for  several  days  with  warm  water,  after  which  it 
is  repeatedly  passed  between  steel  rollers  kept  at  a temperature  of  about  95°  F. ; during 
this  kneading  process  the  rubber  gradually  softens  and  assumes  that  plastic  condition 
which  fits  it  admirably  for  the  subsequent  incorporation  of  very  finely  powdered  olibanum 
and  rosin  or  Burgundy  pitch,  this  being  also  effected  between  warm  rollers.  The  plaster- 
base  thus  prepared  is  ready  for  future  medication  as  required.  Chicle  is  likewise  used 
for  this  purpose,  and  is  incorporated  by  melting  it  with  the  plaster.  (See  Gutta- 
percha.) 

If  non-resinous  extracts  and  fixed  or  volatile  oils  are  ordered  in  such  quantities  as  to 
interfere  with  the  adhesive  properties  of  the  plaster,  Shael  (1873)  recommends  them  to 
be  incorporated  with  powdered  tragacanth.  This  mixture  is  spread  upon  adhesive  plaster, 
of  which  a sufficient  margin  is  left  uncovered. 

EMPLASTRUM  AMMONIACI  CUM  HYDRARGYRO,  TI.  S.,  Br.— 

Ammoniac  Plaster  with  Mercury. 

Ammoniacum.  and  mercury  plaster , E. ; Empldtre  de  gomme  ammoniaque  mercvriel,  Fr. ; 
Quechsilber  und  A mmonialc- Pjlaster,  G. 

Preparation. — Ammoniac,  720  Gm. ; Mercury,  180  Gm. ; Oleate  of  Mercury,  8 
Gm.  ; Diluted  Acetic  Acid,  1000  Cc. ; Lead  Plaster,  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000 
Gm.  Digest  the  ammoniac  with  the  diluted  acetic  acid  in  a suitable  vessel,  avoiding 
contact  with  metals,  until  it  is  entirely  emulsified  ; then  strain,  and  evaporate  the  strained 
liquid  by  means  of  a water-bath,  stirring  constantly  until  a small  portion  taken  from  the 
vessel  hardens  on  cooling.  Triturate  the  oleate  of  mercury  with  the  mercury  gradually 
added  until  globules  of  the  metal  cease  to  be  visible.  Next  add  gradually  the  ammo- 
niac while  yet  hot ; and,  finally,  having  added  enough  lead  plaster,  previously  melted  by 
means  of  a water-bath,  to  make  the  mixture  weigh  1000  Gm.,  mix  the  whole  thoroughly. 

— u.  s. 

To  make  one  pound  of  the  plaster  the  following  quantities  should  be  used : Ammo- 
niac, 11 J av.  ozs. ; mercury,  2 av.  ozs.  and  385  grains  ; mercuric  oleate,  56  grains  ; diluted 
acetic  acid,  1 pint ; and  finally  sufficient  lead  plaster  to  bring  the  finished  product  up  to 
the  desired  weight. 

Take  of  ammoniacum  12  ounces;  mercury  3 ounces;  olive  oil  56  grains;  sublimed 
sulphur  8 grains.  Heat  the  oil,  and  add  the  sulphur  to  it  gradually,  stirring  till  they 
unite.  With  the  mixture  triturate  the  mercury  until  globules  are  no  longer  visible  ; and, 
lastly,  add  the  ammoniacum,  previously  liquefied,  mixing  the  whole  carefully. — Br. 

The  use  of  mercuric  oleate  in  place  of  olive  oil  and  sulphur  for  the  purpose  of  extin- 
guishing the  globules  of  mercury  seems  to  be  a decided  improvement  on  the  formula  of 
1880.  If  the  official  directions  be  closely  followed  a good  plaster  will  result,  but  some 
care  is  necessary  to  insure  the  proper  evaporation  of  the  ammoniac  emulsion.  Water- 
bath  heat  only  should  be  used,  so  as  to  avoid  overheating.  In  the  British  formula  the 
directions  are  incomplete,  as  the  method  of  liquefying  the  ammoniac  is  omitted. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  mercury  in  this  plaster  is  supposed  to  add  to  its  discutient 
effects,  and  to  render  it  a suitable  application  to  swellings  of  a syphilitic  nature.  The 
presence  of  a syphilitic  element  is  not  necessary  to  render  it  more  efficient  than  the 
simple  plaster  of  ammoniac.  Its  prolonged  application  sometimes  excites  ptyalism. 

EMPLASTRUM  ARNICA,  U.  S.— Arnica  Plaster. 

Empldtre  d’arnique,  Fr.  ; Arnikapjl aster , G. 

Preparation. — Extract  of  Arnica-root,  330  Gm.  ; Besin  Plaster,  670  Gm.  Add 
the  extract  to  the  plaster,  previously  melted  by  means  of  a water-bath,  and  mix  them 
thoroughly. — XJ.  S. 

If  avoirdupois  weight  is  preferred,  the  extract  and  plaster  may  be  mixed  in  the  pro- 
portion of  5 ozs.  of  the  former  to  10  ozs.  of  the  latter.  If  the  extract  of  arnica-root  is 


EMPLASTR UM  BELLADONNA.— EMPLASTRUM  CAPSICI. 


601 


very  tough  it  should  be  softened  down  with  a small  quantity  of  water  before  mixing  it 
with  the  resin  plaster,  so  as  to  insure  a perfectly  smooth  mass. 

Action  and  Uses. — Among  the  plasters  which  are  more  frequently  procured  with- 
out the  prescription  of  a physician  than  with  it,  this  is  in  popular  use  as  a remedy  for  a 
variety  of  local  which  are  generally  muscular.  It  serves  to  protect,  support,  and 

mildly  stimulate. 

EMPLASTRUM  BELLADONNA,  U.  S.,  Br  — Belladonna  Plaster. 

Empldtre  tie  belladone , Fr.  ; Belladonna- P 'flaster , G. ; Emplasto  de  belladonna , Sp. 

Preparation. — Alcoholic  Extract  of  Belladonna  Leaves,  200  Gm. ; Resin  Plaster, 
400  Gm. ; Soap  Plaster.  400  Gm. ; to  make  1000  Gm.  Mix  the  plasters  on  a water- 
bath  ; then  add  the  extract  of  belladonna,  and  continue  the  heat,  stirring  constantly, 
until  a homogeneous  mass  results. — U.  8. 

Belladonna  plaster  may  be  conveniently  prepared  of  official  strength  by  incorporating 

1 av.  oz.  of  alcoholic  extract  of  belladonna  leaves  with  a previously-melted  mixture  of 

2 av.  ozs.  each  of  resin  plaster  and  soap  plaster ; to  insure  a perfectly  smooth  plaster  it 
may  be  necessary  to  soften  the  extract  with  a small  quantity  of  water  if  it  appears  to 
have  become  tough. 

Take  of  alcoholic  extract  of  belladonna-root  4 ounces  (or  1 part)  ; resin  plaster,  soap 
plaster,  each  8 ounces  (or  2 parts).  Melt  the  plasters  by  the  heat  of  a water-bath  ; then 
add  the  extract,  and  mix  the  whole  thoroughly  together. — Br. 

The  return  of  the  Pharmacopoeia  to  the  use  of  an  extract  of  belladonna-leaves  seems 
to  us  eminently  proper,  as  the  advantage  of  the  root  extract  was  purely  imaginary,  and 
most  excellent  results  have  always  followed  the  use  of  the  extract  made  from  the  leaves. 
The  addition  of  soap  plaster  is  advantageous,  and  brings  the  formulas  of  the  U.  S.  and 
Br.  Ph.  into  close  correspondence.  The  plaster  is  often  used  in  the  form  of  sparadrap. 

Action  and  Uses. — Belladonna  plaster  diminishes  the  circulation  of  the  blood  in 
the  part  to  which  it  is  applied,  and  thereby,  as  well  as  by  a direct  action  on  the  nerves, 
lessens  pain.  It  is  habitually  employed  to  allay  neuralgic  and  rheumatic  pains , over 
inflammatory  swellings  in  their  congestive  stage,  and  especially  upon  engorged  glands , as 
the  mamma  and  the  testicle.  Care  must  be  taken  that  the  skin  is  sound  where  it  is  applied, 
as  the  characteristic  symptoms  of  belladonna-poisoning  of  a high  grade  have  resulted 
from  a neglect  of  this  precaution.  A very  striking  case  of  this  kind  is  reported  by  Mather 
(Med.  Record , xxiii.  82).  The  symptoms  in  a mild  form,  such  as  dilatation  of  the  pupils, 
dryness  of  the  throat,  and  a papular  eruption  on  the  skin,  are  common  even  when  the 
plaster  has  been  applied  to  the  unbroken  skin  ( ibid .,  xxxiii.  244 ; Jour.  Amer.  Med. 
Assoc.,  x.  686). 


EMPLASTRUM  CAPSICI,  V.  S.— Capsicum  Plaster. 

Sparadrapum  capsid. — Sparadrap  de  capsique , Fr.  ; Capsicump flaster,  G. 

Preparation. — Resin  Plaster,  Oleoresin  of  Capsicum,  each  a sufficient  quantity. 
Melt  the  resin  plaster  at  a gentle  heat,  spread  a thin  and  even  layer  of  it  upon  muslin, 
and  allow  it  to  cool.  Then,  having  cut  off  a piece  of  the  required  size,  apply  a thin 
coating  of  oleoresin  of  capsicum  by  means  of  a brush,  leaving  a narrow  blank  margin 
along  the  edges.  A space  of  10  Cm.  (4  inches)  square  should  contain  0.25  Gm.  (4  grains) 
oleoresin  of  capsicum. — U.  S. 

Allied  Plasters. — Emplastrum  Aromaticum,  N.  F.  Aromatic  Plaster,  Spice  Plaster. — Take 
of  cloves,  Saigon  cinnamon,  ginger,  each  10  parts  ; capsicum,  camphor,  each  5 parts  5 cottonseed 
oil,  35  parts;  lead  plaster,  25  parts.  Melt  together  the  lead  plaster  and  cottonseed  oil  with  the 
aid  of  heat.  Cool  the  mixture,  and,  while  it  is  still  soft,  thoroughly  incorporate  with  it  the 
aromatic  ingredients,  previously  reduced  to  a very  fine  pow'der. 

Aromatic  plaster,  P.  G.  1872,  was  composed  of  yellow  wrax  32  parts,  suet  24  parts,  common 
turpentine  8 parts,  melted  together  and  incorporated  with  expressed  oil  of  nutmeg  6 parts,  pow- 
dered olibanum  16  parts,  powrdered  benzoin  8 parts,  oil  of  peppermint  and  oil  of  cloves,  each  1 
part. 

Action  and  Uses. — Capsicum  plaster  is  mildly  counter-irritant  and  decidedly 
stimulating.  It  is  a convenient  and  efficient  application  to  parts  affected  with  muscular 
rheumatism  or  neuralgia,  and  to  palliate  some  internal  pains. 

Spice  plaster  is  popularly  used  in  Germany  to  palliate  rheumatic  and  other  local  pains, 
and  deserves  to  be  made  officinal  in  this  country. 


602 


EMPLASTRUM  FERRI.— EMPLASTRUM  HYDRARGYRI. 


EMPLASTRUM  FERRI,  U,  S.,  Br. — Iron  Plaster. 

Emplastrum.  roborans  ; Emplastrum  /erratum  s.  marliale. — Chalybeate  plaster,  Strength- 
ening plaster,  E.  ; Empldtre  dioxide  rouge  de  fer,  Empldtre  de  Canet , Fr.  ; Eisenp/laster, 
Stdrkendes  P/aster,  G. 

Preparation. — Ferric  Hydroxide,  dried  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  80°  C.  (1 7 6° 
F.),  90  Grin. ; Olive  Oil  50  6m.  ; Burgundy  Pitch  140  Gm.  ; Lead  Plaster  720  Gm.  ; to 
make  1000  Gm.  Melt  the  lead  plaster  and  Burgundy  pitch  by  means  of  a water-bath 
and  add  the  olive  oil ; then  add  the  oxide  of  iron,  and  stir  constantly  until  the  mixture 
thickens  on  cooling. — XJ.  S. 

Iron  plaster  may  also  be  made  of  official  strength  by  melting  together  9 av.  ozs.  of  lead 
plaster  and  If  av.  ozs.  of  Burgundy  pitch,  then  adding  273  grains  of  olive  oil,  and  finally 
incorporating  492  grains  of  ferric  hydroxide  properly  dried. 

Peroxide  of  iron  1 ounce  ; Burgundy  pitch  2 ounces  ; lead  plaster  8 ounces. — Rr. 

Action  and  Uses. — There  is  no  reason  for  believing  that  the  iron  in  this  plaster 
exerts  any  special  therapeutic  influence.  Its  protective,  supporting,  and  stimulant 
action  renders  it  a useful  application  to  parts  affected  with  chronic  muscular  and  articular 
rheumatism , to  the  chest  during  the  decline  of  acute  pleurisy,  to  enlarged  glands , etc. 

EMPLASTRUM  GALBANI,  Br, — Galbanum  Plaster. 

Emplastrum  galbani  compositum,  Emplastrum  lithargyri  (vel plumbi)  compositum,  P.  G. ; 
Emplastrum  diachylum  gummatum,  F.  Cod.  ; Emplastrum  diachylon  compositum. — Com- 
pound galbanum  plaster,  E. ; Empldtre  diachylon  gomme,  Fr. ; Mutterhartz-Pjlaster , Gum- 
mipjlaster,  Zugpjlaster , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Galbanum,  Ammoniacum,  and  Yellow  Wax  each  1 ounce  ; 
Lead  Plaster  8 ounces.  Melt  the  galbanum  and  ammoniacum  together,  and  strain  ; then 
add  the  mixture  to  the  lead  plaster  and  wax,  also  previously  melted  together,  and  mix 
the  whole  thoroughly. — Br. 

To  a mixture  of  3 parts  of  yellow  wax  and  24  parts  of  lead  plaster,  previously  melted 
and  partly  cooled,  add  a mixture  of  2 parts  each  of  galbanum,  ammoniac,  and  common 
turpentine,  previously  melted,  with  addition  of  a little  water,  and  strained. — P.  G. 

Galbanum  plaster  is  no  longer  recognized  in  the  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia  ; the  formula  of 
1880  directed  that  6 parts  of  Burgundy  pitch  and  76  parts  of  lead  plaster  be  added  to 
a mixture  of  16  parts  of  galbanum  and  2 parts  of  Canada  turpentine,  previously  melted 
and  strained. 

The  corresponding  plaster  of  the  F.  Cod.  contains  also  elemi  and  sagapenum. 

By  rubbing;  30  grains  of  powdered  saffron  with  sufficient  alcohol  to  produce  a pulpy 
mass,  and  mixing  this  intimately  with  4 troyounces  of  galbanum  plaster  (U.  S.  P.  1880), 
previously  fused,  a good  substitute  for  Emplastrum  galbani  crocatum , used  in  Europe,  is 
obtained. 

Emplastrum  oxycroceum,  s.  Empl.  galbani  rubrum.  This  compound  galbanum 
plaster  is  frequently  used  by  our  German  population  ; it  is  prepared  as  follows  : Take  of 
yellow  wax,  resin,  Burgundy  pitch,  each  6 parts.  Melt  them  together  with  a moderate 
heat,  and  to  the  strained  mass  add  of  ammoniac,  powdered,  and  galbanum,  each  2 parts, 
previously  liquefied  with  turpentine  3 parts.  Then  add  an  intimate  mixture  consisting 
of  mastic,  myrrh,  olibanum,  each,  in  powder,  2 parts,  and  saffron,  powdered,  1 part, 
and  mix  the  whole  together. — P.  G.  1872.  The  plaster  is  reddish-brown  and  very 
tenacious. 

Action  and  Uses. — As  a more  stimulant  application  than  most  of  the  other  plasters 
used  for  the  same  purposes,  it  may  be  preferred  before  them  in  the  treatment  of  various 
local  affections  named  in  the  preceding  articles. 

EMPLASTRUM  HYDRARGYRI,  U.  S.,  Br.,B.  G.— Mercurial  Plaster. 

Emplastrum  mercuriale. — Empldtre  mercumel , F.  ; Quecksilber-Pflaster , G.  ; Empiastro 
mercurial , It. 

Preparation. — Mercury,  300  Gm.  ; Oleate  of  Mercury,  12  Gm. ; Lead  Plaster,  a 
sufficient  quantity,  to  make  1000  Gm.  Triturate  the  mercury  with  the  oleate  of  mercury 
in  a tared  capsule  until  the  globules  of  metal  are  no  longer  visible.  Then  place  the  cap- 
sule on  a water-bath,  add  enough  lead  plaster,  previously  melted,  to  make  the  contents 
weigh  1000  Gm.,  and  mix  the  whole  thoroughly. 


EMPLASTRUM  1 CHTII YOCOLLJE. 


603 


To  make  4 av.  ozs.  of  mercurial  plaster,  triturate  525  grains  of  mercury  with  21  grains 
of  mercuric  oleate,  and  after  the  globules  have  all  been  extinguished,  incorporate  with 
1204  grains  of  lead  plaster  previously  melted. 

The  use  of  mercuric  oleate  in  place  of  the  resin  and  olive  oil  of  the  last  Pharmacopoeia 
appears  to  be  an  improvement. 

Take  of  mercury  3 ounces  ; olive  oil  56  grains  ; sublimed  sulphur  8 grains  ; lead 
plaster  6 ounces.  Heat  the  oil  and  add  the  sulphur  to  it  gradually,  stirring  until  they 
unite  ; with  this  mixture  triturate  the  mercury  until  globules  are  no  longer  visible ; then 
add  the  lead  plaster,  previously  liquefied,  and  mix  the  whole  thoroughly. — By. 

The  P.  G.  directs  that  2 parts  of  mercury  shall  be  triturated  with  1 part  of  common 
turpentine  until  uniformly  mixed,  and  then  added  to  6 parts  of  lead  plaster  and  1 part  of 
yellow  wax  previously  melted  together. 

The  French  Codex  gives  a formula  for  Emplastrum  de  Vigo  cum  mercurio  ( Empla - 
tre  mercuriel  dit  de  T ago'),  which  is  occasionally  used  here.  It  is  made  by  fusing  together 
lead  plaster  200  parts  ; yellow  wax  and  resin,  each  10  parts ; add  thereto  the  following 
powders  : olibanum,  ammoniac,  bdellium,  and  myrrh,  of  each  3 parts,  and  saffron,  2 parts  ; 
also  60  parts  of  mercury  extinguished  by  10  parts  of  turpentine,  and  finally  30  parts  of 
liquid  storax  and  1 part  of  oil  of  lavender. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  virtues  of  mercurial  plaster  depend  upon  its  being  not 
only  a mechanical  support  to  the  affected  parts  and  a mild  counter-irritant,  but  also  upon 
the  specific  operation  of  its  mercury,  whereby  it  tends  to  promote  the  absorption  of 
exudation-matter,  both  by  its  direct  local  action  and  by  its  producing  on  the  system  a 
greater  or  less  mercurial  impression.  Indeed,  it  not  unfrequently  occasions  soreness  of 
the  gums  and  a degree  of  salivation.  It  is  frequently  employed  for  the  removal  of 
syphilitic  nodes  and  glandular  engorgements  produced  by  the  same  cause,  including  those 
of  the  liver.  It  appears  also  to  reduce  that  organ  and  the  spleen  when  enlarged  by  mala- 
rial disease.  The  Vigo  plaster  of  the  French  Codex,  which  is  described  above,  has  been 
applied  as  a mask  to  the  face  during  the  papular  stage  of  small-pox,  with  the  effect  of 
preventing  a full  development  of  the  pustules  and  the  consequent  pitting.  The  simpler 
mercurial  plaster  appears  to  have  been  used  with  equally  good  results.  In  both  cases  the 
influence  of  mechanical  compression  and  of  the  exclusion  of  light  should  not  be  over- 
looked. 

EMPLASTRUM  IOHTH YOCOLLJE,  U.  S.— Isinglass  Plaster. 

Emplastrum  adhsesivum  anglicum,  Sparadrapum  s Taffetas  adhsesivum,  Sericum  ang- 
licum. — Court  plaster,  E. ; Spar  ad ap  de  colie  de  poisson,  Taffetas  d’ An  gleterre,  Fr. ; Eng- 
lisches  Pjlaster,  Klebtaffet,  G. 

Preparation. — Isinglass  10  Gm.  ; Alcohol  40  Gm. ; Glycerin  1 Gm. ; Water,  Tinc- 
ture of  Benzoin,  each  a sufficient  quantity.  Dissolve  the  isinglass  in  a sufficient  quantity 
of  hot  water  to  make  the  solution  weigh  120  Gm.  Spread  one-half  of  this,  in  successive 
layers,  upon  taffeta  (stretched  on  a level  surface)  by  means  of  a brush,  waiting  after 
each  application  until  the  layer  is  dry.  Mix  the  second  half  of  the  isinglass  solution 
with  the  alcohol  and  glycerin,  and  apply  it  in  the  same  manner.  Then  reverse  the  taffeta, 
coat  it  on  the  back  with  tincture  of  benzoin,  and  allow  it  to  become  perfectly  dry.  Cut 
the  plaster  in  pieces  of  suitable  length  and  preserve  them  in  well-closed  vessels.  Substi- 
tuting 15.5  gr.  for  1 Gm.,  the  above  quantities  are  sufficient  to  cover  a piece  of  taffeta 
38  Cm.  (15  inches)  square. — U.  S. 

This  formula  has  been  taken  from  the  German  Pharmacopoeia  of  1872.  The  taffeta 
should  be  stretched  upon  a frame,  so  as  to  present  a level  surface.  For  the  first  two 
applications  the  isinglass  solution  should  be  warmed  merely  to  above  its  congealing-point, 
so  that  when  spread  out  it  may  rapidly  solidify,  and  at  the  same  time  firmly  adhere  to, 
but  not  pass  through,  the  fabric.  The  air  having  access  to  both  sides  of  the  taffeta,  each 
coating  will  dry  readily  and  uniformly  in  a dry  and  moderately  warm  atmosphere,  and 
should  be  quite  hard  before  a new  application  is  made.  The  addition  of  glycerin  to  the 
last  portion  of  the  isinglass  solution  prevents  the  plaster  from  breaking  and  preserves  its 
flexibility  for  a long  time.  The  tincture  of  benzoin  applied  to  the  reverse  side  leaves  a 
thin  layer  of  resin,  which,  in  a measure,  renders  this  plaster  waterproof;  it  is,  however, 
advisable  to  repeat  this  application  once  or  twice.  The  plaster  should  only  be  removed 
from  the  frame  when  thoroughly  dry. 

Action  and  Uses. — Isinglass  plaster  is  in  very  common  use  to  cover  slight  cuts 
and  abrasions  of  the  skin.  It  should  never  be  moistened  with  saliva,  but  only  with 
pure  water,  before  application. 


604  EM  PL  A STB  TJM  MENTHOL.-  EMPLASTRUM  PICIS  CA  NTH  A R IDA  T UM. 


EMPLASTRUM  MENTHOL,  Br.  Add.— Menthol  Plaster. 

Emplatre  de  menthol , Fr.  ; Mentholpflaster , Gr. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Menthol,  2 ounces;  Yellow  Wax,  1 ounce;  Resin,  7 
ounces.  Melt  the  wax  and  resin  together,  and,  as  the  mixture  cools,  stir  in  the  menthol 
until  dissolved. — Br.  Add. 

This  is  a new  preparation  introduced  into  the  additions  to  the  Br.  P.  in  1890. 

Action  and  Uses. — Menthol  plaster  has  been  successfully  employed  to  relieve 
migraine  and  general  neuralgic  pains. 

EMPLASTRUM  OPII,  U.  S.,  Br.— Opium  Plaster. 

Emplastrum  opiatum  s.  cephalicum  s.  odontalgicum. — Emplatre  d? opium,  Emplatre  ceplial- 
ique  ( temporal , odontalgique , calmant.  Fr.  ; Opiumpjlaster , Hauptpjiaster , G. 

Preparation. — Extract  of  Opium  60  Gm.  ; Burgundy  Pitch  180  Gm  ; Lead  Plaster 
760  Gm. ; Water,  80  Cc. ; to  make  1000  Gm.  Rub  the  extract  of  opium  with  the  water 
until  a uniformly  smooth  paste  results,  and  add  it  to  the  Burgundy  pitch  and  lead  plaster, 
melted  together  by  means  of  a water-bath  ; then  continue  the  heat  for  a short  time,  stir- 
ring constantly,  until  the  moisture  is  evaporated. — U.  S. 

To  make  4 av.  ozs.  of  official  opium  plaster,  105  grains  of  extract  of  opium  may  be 
rubbed  into  a smooth  paste  with  2\  fluidrachms  of  water,  and  then  added  to  315  grains 
of  Burgundy  pitch  and  1330  grains  of  lead  plaster,  melted  together  on  a water-bath; 
the  water  is  driven  off  as  directed  above. 

Take  of  opium,  in  finest  powder  1 ounce ; resin  plaster  9 ounces.  Melt  the  resin  plas- 
ter by  means  of  a water-bath  ; then  add  the  opium  by  degrees  and  mix  thoroughly. — Br. 

Both  these  formulas  yield  good  and  efficient  plasters,  the  first  being  preferable  on 
account  of  the  absence  of  the  insoluble  and  non-adhesive  constituents  of  opium,  and 
for  being  rather  stronger  as  far  as  opium  is  concerned. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  plaster  is  a convenient  form  for  the  local  application  of 
opium  to  painful  parts  of  limited  extent — e.g.  to  the  face  in  toothache. 

EMPLASTRUM  PICIS  BURGUNDICiE,  U.  Burgundy  Pitch 

Plaster. 

picatum , F.  Cod. — Emplatre  de  poix  de  Bourgogne , Fr. ; Burgunder  Pech- 

Preparation. — Burgundy  Pitch  800  Gm. ; Olive  Oil  50  Gm. ; Yellow  Wax  150 
Gm.  ; to  make  1000  Gm.  Melt  together  the  Burgundy  pitch  and  yellow  wax,  then 
incorporate  the  olive  oil,  and  stir  constantly,  until  the  mass  thickens  on  cooling. — U.  S. 
If  avoirdupois  weight  be  preferred,  4 ozs.  of  Burgundy  pitch  may  be  mixed  with  1 oz. 
of  olive  oil  and  f oz.  of  yellow  wax,  according  to  directions  given  above. 

The  present  formula  is  an  improvement  on  the  former  one,  in  that  the  proportion  of 
wax  has  been  increased,  and  olive  oil  added,  thus  diminishing  the  brittleness  of  the  plas- 
ter. The  French  Codex  directs  1 part  of  yellow  wax  to  3 parts  of  Burgundy  pitch. 

The  formula  of  the  British  Pharmacopoeia  for  Emplastrum  picis , or  pitch  plaster,  is  as 
follows  : Take  of  Burgundy  pitch  26  ounces  ; common  frankincense  13  ounces  ; resin  and 
yellow  wax,  each  4£  ounces ; expressed  oil  of  nutmeg  1 ounce  ; olive  oil  and  water,  each 
2 fluidounces.  Add  the  oils  and  water  to  the  frankincense,  Burgundy  pitch,  resin,  and 
wax,  previously  melted  together  ; then,  constantly  stirring,  evaporate  to  a proper  con- 
sistence.— Br. 

Action  and  Uses. — Burgundy  pitch  plaster,  besides  giving  mechanical  support,  is 
useful  through  its  stimulant  and  mildly  counter-irritant  action.  The  British  preparation 
is  the  more  efficient  of  the  two. 

EMPLASTRUM  PICIS  CANTHARIDATUM,  V.  S.— Cantharidal 

Pitch  Plaster. 

Emplastrum  calefaciens , Br. — Warm  or  warming  plaster , E. ; Emplatre  de  poix  cantha- 
ride , Fr. ; Pechpflaster  mit  Canthariden , G. 

Preparation. — Cerate  of  Cantharides  80  Gm. ; Burgundy  Pitch,  a sufficient  quan- 
tity to  make  1000  Gm.  Melt  the  cerate  of  cantharides  on  a boiling  water-bath,  and 
continue  the  heat  for  fifteen  minutes ; then  strain  it  through  a piece  of  muslin  of  close 


Emplastrum 
Pflaster , G. 


EMPLASTRUM  PLUMB  I. 


605 


texture,  so  that  the  cantharides  will  be  retained  on  the  muslin.  To  the  strained  liquid 
add  a sufficient  quantity  of  Burgundy  pitch  to  make  the  whole  weigh  1000  Gm.,  render 
the  mixture  homogeneous  by  stirring,  remove  the  heat,  and  stir  the  mass  until  it  thickens 
on  cooling. — U . S. 

To  make  4 av.  ozs.  of  warming  plaster  use  140  grains  of  cerate  of  cantharides,  treat 
as  above  directed,  and  add  to  sufficient  Burgundy  pitch  to  make  the  weight  of  the  finished 
product  4 ounces. 

As  this  plaster  is  apt  to  become  very  brittle  when  cold,  we  would  suggest  the  addition 
of  some  hot  water  or  olive  oil,  say  2 drachms,  in  place  of  a like  quantity  of  the  pitch. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  plaster  maintains  a mild  counter-irritant  action  greater 
than  that  of  the  simple  pitch  plaster,  but  less  than  is  caused  by  a blister.  It  is  often  of 
signal  advantage  in  chronic  affections  of  the  joints , chronic  muscular  rheumatism , and 
chronic  diseases  of  the  chest.  Of  the  last,  chronic  bronchitis  is  often  greatly  benefited  by 
its  use,  and  next  to  this  is  chronic  pleurisy.  It  is  of  service  in  the  treatment  of  chronic 
pulmonary  engorgement  due  to  the  presence  of  tubercle , or  in  that  of  broncho-pneumonia , 
which  so  often  tends  to  pulmonary  phthisis. 

EMPLASTRUM  PLUMBI,  U.  S.,  Br.— Lead  Plaster. 

Emplastrum  lithargyri  (simplex),  P.  G. ; Emplastrum  simplex , F.  Cod. ; Emplastrum 
diachylon  simplex. — Diachylon  plaster , Litharge  plaster , E.  ; Emplatre  simple , Empldtre 
de  plomb  (de  litharge ),  Fr.  ; Bleipjlaster , Diachylon- Pjlaster,  Gr. ; Empiastro  diachilon , 
It.  ; Emplasto  de  la  Vireina , Sp. 

Preparation. — Lead  Oxide  3200  Gm.  ; Olive  Oil  6000  Gm  ; Water,  a sufficient 
quantity.  Mix  the  lead  oxide,  previously  passed  through  a No.  80  sieve,  intimately  with 
about  one-half  of  the  olive  oil,  by  trituration,  and  add  the  mixture  to  the  remainder  of 
the  oil  contained  in  a bright  copper  boiler  of  a capacity  equal  to  at  least  four  times  the 
bulk  of  the  ingredients.  Then  add  1000  Cc.  of  boiling  water,  and  boil  the  whole  to- 
gether, over  a fire,  constantly  stirring  with  a wooden  spatula,  until  a homogeneous  plaster 
is  formed,  adding  from  time  to  time  a little  water  to  replace  that  lost  by  evaporation. 
When  the  contents  of  the  boiler  have  acquired  a whitish  color  and  are  perfectly  homo- 
geneous, transfer  them  to  a vessel  containing  warm  water,  and  as  soon  as  the  mass  has 
sufficiently  cooled,  knead  it  well  with  the  water  so  as  to  remove  from  it  the  glycerin, 
renewing  the  water  from  time  to  time  as  long  as  it  may  be  necessary.  Finally,  divide 
the  mass  into  rolls  of  suitable  size. — U.  S. 

If  avoirdupois  weight  is  preferred,  the  following  quantities  may  be  used,  and  in  other 
respects  the  Pharmacopoeia  directions  should  be  observed:  lead  oxide  16  ounces,  olive  oil 
30  ounces,  water  5 ounces. 

The  French  and  German  Pharmacopoeias  used  equal  parts  of  olive  oil  and  lard  in  place 
of  olive  oil  alone,  which  is  directed  by  the  British  and  United  States  Pharmacopoeias. 
A much  greater  discrepancy,  however,  exists  in  the  proportion  of  the  fat  to  the  other 
ingredients.  Calculated  for  100  parts  of  fat,  there  are  ordered  of  water  100  ( F . Cod.), 
50  (Br.),  16.7  (U.  S.)  parts,  and  sufficient  (D.  G.)  ] of  litharge  53.33  (U.  /S'.),  and  50 
(Br.,  F.  Cod.,  and  F.  G.)  parts.  A much  smaller  amount  is  decidedly  insufficient,  and 
yields  a plaster  which  is  and  remains  sticky.  The  litharge  should  be  not  less  than 
half  the  weight  of  the  fat  used,  and  in  view  of  its  variable  quality  may  very  prop- 
erly be  increased  somewhat  beyond  that  proportion,  as  directed  by  the  United  States 
Pharmacopoeia. 

The  U.  S.  and  G.  Pharmacopoeias  provide  for  the  removal  of  all  glycerin  by  subsequent 
kneading  of  the  plaster  with  water ; the  Br.  P.  allows  the  glycerin  to  remain  mixed  with 
the  plaster,  and  this  accounts  for  the  softer  condition  of  the  English  article. 

In  view  of  the  importance  of  this  plaster  as  a basis  for  many  others,  it  is  usually  pre- 
pared in  larger  quantities,  and  an  expeditious  and  successful  manipulation  is  therefore  to 
be  preferred  to  methods  which  may  involve  more  labor  and  time.  The  lead  oxide  may 
be  triturated  in  the  kettle  in  which  the  plaster  is  to  be  made,  with  a portion  of  the  oil 
gradually  added  until  a thin,  smooth,  and  uniform  pasty  mass  is  obtained,  when  the  oil 
may  be  added  more  rapidly,  the  trituration  being  continued.  But  if  the  litharge  is  in 
very  fine  powder,  as  directed  by  the  Pharmacopoeia,  there  is  no  necessity  for  such  tritura- 
tion  ; the  litharge,  however,  may  be  sifted  directly  into  the  mixture  of  oil  and  water, 
which  may  at  the  same  time  be  heated.  The  whole  is  then  boiled,  and  frequently  stirred 
to  prevent  the  litharge  from  settling  to  the  bottom,  and  a little  hot  water  is  added  from 
time  to  time  to  supply  that  which  may  have  evaporated.  The  mixture  has  at  first  a 


006 


EMPLASTRUM  PLUMB  I. 


reddish  color,  which  gradually  changes  until  it  finally  becomes  white.  From  the  time  it 
commences  to  boil  the  mixture  foams,  on  account  of  the  extrication  of  the  watery  vapors, 
and  as  the  saponification  proceeds  the  foaming  increases.  Now  it  requires  additional 
attention  to  keep  up  the  supply  of  water,  the  proportion  ordered  by  the  U.  S.  P.  being 
ample  for  all  purposes,  and  to  prevent  the  mass  from  becoming  overheated,  which  would 
interfere  with  the  adhesive  qualities  of  the  plaster  and  more  or  less  darken  its  color. 
The  temperature  may  be  allowed  to  rise  to  about  120°  C.  (248°  F.),  but  it  will  be  below 
that  point  if  sufficient  water  be  present.  Instead  of  boiling  the  mixture,  it  may  be 
digested  in  a water-bath,  but  the  formation  of  the  plaster  will  then  require  2 or  3 days 
while  by  the  pharmacopceial  process  it  will  be  completed  in  little  more  than  as  many 
hours,  depending  upon  the  quantity  worked.  Without  the  addition  of  water,  litharge  will 
decompose  fats,  uniting  with  the  fatty  acids,  but  a much  higher  temperature  will  be 
required,  and  in  the  absence  of  water  glycerin  cannot  be  separated,  but  is  decomposed. 
Plumbic  hydroxide,  the  hydrated  lead  oxide,  contains  enough  water  for  the  separation 
of  glycerin,  and  its  combination  with  the  acids  of  the  oil  is  effected  more  readily  and  at 
a lower  temperature.  The  relations  are  similar  if  the  official  directions  are  followed,  but 
the  saponification  of  the  fat  requires  more  time,  as  plumbic  hydroxide  is  slowly  formed ; 
however,  with  sufficient  attention  no  secondary  decomposition-products  are  formed.  To 
increase  the  saponifying  action  of  the  litharge  a small  quantity  of  lead  acetate  is  some- 
times added,  by  which  the  oxide  is  more  readily  dissolved,  but  the  addition  is  not  neces- 
sary. Since  lead  carbonate  saponifies  fat  with  greater  difficulty  than  the  oxide,  the  latter 
should  be  as  free  from  the  former  as  possible ; the  carbonic  acid  is  gradually  evolved  as 
the  saponification  proceeds. 

The  chemical  reactions  involved  in  the  manufacture  of  lead  plaster  are  clearly  the  same 
as  are  noticed  whenever  a fat  is  saponified  by  means  of  alkali  hydroxides  or  moist 
metallic  oxides ; the  presence  of  water  is  essential  for  chemical  action,  although  it  also 
aids  in  keeping  down  the  temperature,  and  thus  prevents  decomposition  of  the  fat.  In 
order  to  demonstrate  the  formation  of  lead  plaster  (lead  oleate  or  lead  soap),  olive  oil 
may  be  looked  upon  as  olein  or  glyceryl  trioleate,  leaving  out  of  consideration  the 
presence  of  very  small  quantities  of  palmitin  ; the  following  equation  then  will  show  the 
reaction : 2 C3H5(C18H3302)3  + 3PbO  + 3H.20  = 3Pb(C18H3302)2  + 2C3H5(OH)3.  The 
basylous  radical  C3H5  is  trivalent,  and  is  known  as  propenyl  or  glyceryl ; being  displaced 
from  its  combination  with  oleic  acid  by  the  lead,  it  readily  unites  with  the  oxygen  and 
hydrogen  present  to  form  the  alcohol  glycerin  or  propenyltrihydroxide,  C3H5(OH)3. 

Lead  plaster  may  also  be  obtained  by  precipitating  a solution  of  soap  by  sugar  of  lead, 
but  the  plaster  thus  obtained  soon  becomes  hard  and  dark-colored.  Similar  objections 
exist  against  the  substitution  of  many  other  fats  for  olive  oil.  As  we  have  seen,  the 
French  and  German  Pharmacopoeias  sanction  the  use  of  equal  weights  of  olive  oil  and 
lard. 

The  process  is  known  to  be  finished  when,  after  dropping  a little  of  the  plaster  in 
cold  water  and  kneading  it  between  the  fingers,  it  is  found  to  be  pliable,  but  not  sticky. 
When  this  point  has  been  reached  the  vessel  is  removed  from  the  fire  and  allowed  to  cool 
somewhat.  The  temperature  may  then  be  reduced  by  the  addition  of  cold  water,  and 
the  mass  kneaded  and  rolled  out,  as  described  above  (see  Emplastra),  into  cylinders 
of  any  convenient  size.  The  yield  is  but  little  more  than  the  weight  of  the  ingredients 
used. 

Lead  plaster  is  of  a uniform  grayish-white  color,  but  not  yellowish-white,  as  stated  by 
the  U.  S.  P.  and  P.  G.  At  a low  temperature  the  plaster  breaks  with  a finely-granular 
fracture.  On  keeping,  it  becomes  of  a more  dingy  tint ; and  superficially  changes  to 
yellowish  or  pale-brownish.  As  stated  above,  it  should,  when  warm,  be  pliable  and  not 
sticky,  due  to  unsaponified  fat,  and  it  should  be  entirely  free  from  uncombined  litharge, 
the  presence  of  which  is  easily  recognized  by  its  reddish  color,  or  may  be  detected  as 
follows  : u On  treating  5 Gm.  of  lead  plaster  with  25  Cc.  of  benzene,  a somewhat  viscid 

and  slightly  turbid  solution  will  result,  which  will  separate  into  a clear  and  a gelatinous 
layer  after  some  time,  but  which  should  not  deposit  any  sediment  (absence  of  vncombined 
lead  oxide'). ” — U.  S.  Chemically,  lead  plaster  is  a mixture  of  lead  oleate  and  palmitate, 
containing  also  stearate  if  lard  has  been  used  in  its  preparation. 

Zinc  plaster,  in  which  zinc  oxide  is  substituted  for  litharge,  has  been  occasionally 
recommended ; it  is  most  expeditiously  prepared  by  mixing  concentrated  solution  ot  2 
parts  of  white  Castile  soap  and  1 part  of  zinc  sulphate,  digesting  the  mixture  until 
the  decomposition  has  been  completed,  and  washing  out  the  salt  by  kneading  the  mass 
under  water. 


EMPLASTR  UM  PLUMBT  IODIDI. — EM  PL  A STR  UM  SAPONIS. 


607 


Action  and  Uses. — The  oxide  of  lead  in  this  plaster  is  its  only  active  ingredient, 
and  hence  it  is  used  as  a discutient  as  well  as  a protective.  Owing  to  the  possibility  of 
absorption  of  the  lead,  it  should  not  be  applied  to  raw  surfaces.  It  is  frequently  used  to 
prevent  bed-sores  and  the  abrasions  which  many  forms  of  surgical  apparatus  tend  to  pro- 
duce. Zinc  plaster  inay  be  used  instead  of  lead  plaster  where  a large  surface  is  to  be 
covered  or  the  skin  is  delicate. 

EMPLASTRUM  PLUMBI  IODIDI,  Br.— Lead  Iodide  Plaster. 

Empldtre  d'iodure  de  plumb , Fr.  ; Jodblei-PJlaster , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  lead  Iodide  2 ounces  (or  1 part)  : Lead  Plaster  1 pound 
(or  8 parts)  ; Resin  2 ounces  (or  1 part).  Add  the  lead  iodide  in  fine  powder  to  the 
plaster  and  resin,  previously  melted  at  as  low  a temperature  as  possible,  and  mix  them 
intimately. — Br. 

The  present  formula  was  proposed  by  A.  W.  Gerrard  (1874),  who  showed  that  the 
plaster,  as  formerly  prepared  with  soap  plaster,  contained  very  little  lead  iodide,  which 
was  nearly  all  decomposed  by  the  soap. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  is  perhaps  the  best  form  in  which  lead  iodide  can  be 
employed  topically  for  promoting  the  resolution  of  indurations  resulting  from  inflamma- 
tion, and  especially  from  articular  rheumatism. 

EMPLASTRUM  RESINAE,  U.  S.  Br. — Resin  Plaster. 

Emplastrum  adhsesivum , P.  G. — Adhesive  plaster , E.  ; Empldtre  resineux  ( adhesif ),  Fr.  ; 
Heftpflaster,  G. ; Empiastro  adesivo,  It. 

Preparation. — Resin,  in  fine  powder,  140  Gm. ; Lead  Plaster,  800  Gm. ; Yellow 
Wax,  60  Gm.  ; to  make  1000  Gm.  To  the  lead  plaster  and  wax,  melted  together  over  a 
gentle  fire,  add  the  resin,  and  mix  them. — If.  S. 

To  make  25  av.  ozs.  of  resin  plaster  will  require  11  ozs.  of  yellow  wax,  31  ozs.  of  resin 
and  20  ozs  of  lead  plaster. 

Take  of  resin  4 ounces ; lead  plaster  2 pounds ; curd  soap  2 ounces.  To  the  lead 
plaster,  previously  melted  with  a gentle  heat,  add  the  resin  and  soap,  first  liquefied,  and 
stir  them  until  they  are  thoroughly  mixed. — Br. 

This  is  the  plaster  which,  spread  upon  muslin,  forms  the  sparadrap  commonly  known 
as  adhesive  plaster  or  sticking  plaster.  About  2 per  cent,  more  of  resinous  matter  is  con- 
tained in  the  plaster  of  the  P.  G.,  which  is  made  by  melting  lead  plaster  100  parts  until 
all  the  water  has  evaporated;  then  adding  yellow  wax  10  parts  and  a previously  melted 
mixture  of  dammar  10  parts,  colophony  10  parts,  and  turpentine  1 part.  This  plaster  is 
more  pliable  and  adhesive  at  a low  temperature,  a quality  possessed  also  by  that  of  the  Br. 
P.  For  the  latter,  A.  W.  Gerrard  (1874)  suggests  that  for  use  in  summer  one-fourth 
the  quantities  of  soap  and  resin  ordered  should  be  used  ; in  the  spring  one-half  the  quan- 
tity will  answer,  but  in  cold  weather  the  official  proportions  are  preferable.  The  sparadrap 
commun  used  in  France  is  compound  galbanum  plaster. 

Good  adhesive  plaster  should  not  be  sticky  at  the  ordinary  temperature ; when  spread 
upon  muslin  it  should  be  pliable  without  cracking,  and  when  applied  to  the  skin  should 
adhere  firmly. 

Action  and  Uses. — Adhesive  plaster  is  chiefly  employed  for  the  support  of  mobile 
parts,  for  exerting  pressure,  for  securing  the  coaptation  of  wounds  and  fractures , for. 
supporting  surgical  dressings,  etc.  It  is  sometimes  used  for  maintaining  the  immobility 
of  parts,  such  as  the  chest,  the  abdomen,  etc.  It  is  apt  to  irritate  delicate  skins. 

EMPLASTRUM  SAPONIS,  V.  S.,  Br.— Soap  Plaster 

Emplastrum  saponatum,  P.  G. ; Emplastrum  cum  sapone , F.  Cod. — Empldtre  de  savon , 
Fr. ; Seifenp faster,  G. 

Preparation. — Soap,  dried  and  in  coarse  powder  100  Gm. ; Lead  Plaster  900  Gm. ; 
Water  a sufficient  quantity.  Rub  the  soap  with  water  until  brought  to  a semi-liquid 
state ; then  mix  it  with  the  lead  plaster,  previously  melted,  and  evaporate  to  the  proper 
consistence. — U.  S. 

To  make  4 av.  ozs.  of  soap  plaster  would  require  175  grains  of  powdered  soap  and 
1575  grains  of  lead  plaster. 

It  is  important  that  the  soap  be  used  in  form  of  powder,  so  as  to  insure  a smooth  mix- 


608 


EMPLASTRUM  SAPONIS  FUSCUM. 


ture  with  water,  and  that  subsequently  the  water  be  again  expelled  by  evaporation, 
otherwise  the  plaster  loses  its  adhesive  properties. 

Take  of  curd  soap  6 ounces ; lead  plaster  24  pounds ; resin  1 ounce.  To  the  lead 
plaster,  melted  by  a gentle  heat,  add  the  soap  and  the  resin,  first  liquefied  ; then,  con- 
stantly stirring,  evaporate  to  a proper  consistence. — Br. 

The  proportion  of  soap  directed  is  5.6  (F.  Cod'),  5.8  (7J.  G.),  10  (77.  S.),  and  14  {Br.) 
per  cent.  The  French  Codex  orders  also  4.5  per  cent,  of  white  wax,  while  the  German 
Pharmacopueia  uses  yellow  wax  11.5  and  camphor  1.15  per  cent.  The  U.  S.  P.  alone 
requires  the  soap  to  be  rubbed  up  with  water  ; the  F.  Cod.  and  P.  G.  order  the  soap  to 
be  powdered,  when  it  may  be  uniformly  incorporated  with  the  melted  plaster  by  sifting. 
Soap  plaster  has  a whitish  color  and  should  be  nearly  free  from  water,  which  renders  the 
soap  slippery. 

Action,  and  Uses. — Soap  plaster  is  generally  used  to  prevent  abrasions,  bed-sores, 
etc.,  and,  like  other  plasters  containing  lead,  it  possesses  some  discutient  powers.  Owing 
to  the  thickness  of  the  layer  as  it  is  usually  spread,  it  is  apt  to  be  moved  from  its  orig- 
inal position,  and  is  therefore  less  efficient  than  adhesive  plaster  in  preventing  bed-sores. 
Soap  cerate  applied  upon  appropriate  tissues  affords  mechanical  support  to  joints,  while 
it  acts  as  a sedative  of  inflammation  by  promoting  transpiration,  and  possibly  by  the 
direct  operation  of  the  lead  in  its  composition.  It  is  used  to  envelop  sprained,  gouty, 
rheumatic,  and  scrofulous  joints,  and  as  an  application  to  glandular  swellings  and  local 
hypertrophies. 

EMPLASTRUM  SAPONIS  FUSCUM,  Br.— Brown  Soap  Plaster. 

Emplastrum  Cerati  Saponis,  Br.,  1867. — Soap  cerate  plaster,  E.  ; Empldtre  de  savon 
saturne,  Fr.  ; Seif encer at-  E faster , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Curd  Soap,  in  powder,  10  ounces  ; Yellow  Wax,  12|  ounces; 
Olive  Oil  1 pint;  Lead  Oxide  15  ounces;  Vinegar  1 gallon.  Boil  the  vinegar  and 
lead  oxide  together  by  the  heat  of  a steam-bath,  constantly  stirring  them  until  the 
oxide  has  combined  with  the  acid  ; then  add  the  soap,  and  boil  again  until  most  of  the 
moisture  has  evaporated  ; finally,  add  the  wax  and  oil  melted  together,  and  stir  the  whole 
continuously,  maintaining  the  heat  until  by  the  evaporation  of  the  remaining  moisture  the 
product  has  acquired  the  proper  consistence  of  a plaster. — Br. 

A similar  preparation  was  formerly  (1850)  official  in  the  United  States,  but  has  been 
replaced  by  Empl.  Saponis  (which  see).  To  avoid  the  prolonged  unnecessary  boil- 
ing, A.  W.  Gerrard  (1874)  proposed  to  substitute  for  the  vinegar  18  ounces  of  acetic  acid, 
which  is  sufficient  to  dissolve  the  lead  oxide  ; the  lead  acetate  formed  reacts  with  the 
soap  forming  lead  plaster. 

Action  and  Uses. — Soap  cerate  plaster  is  used  for  the  general  purposes  of  adhe- 
sive plaster,  and  for  supporting  and  protecting  enlarged  joints  and  other  swollen  parts. 


NON-OFFICIAL  PLASTERS. 

Among  the  unofficial  plasters,  more  or  less  employed  in  different  sections,  the  follow 
ing  deserve  to  be  mentioned  in  this  place  : 

Emplastrum  picis  liqud^e  compositum. — Compound  Tar  Plaster. — Take  of  Resin,  25 
parts  ; Tar,  20  parts  ; Podophyllum,  in  No.  60  powder,  5 parts  ; Phytolacca  root,  in  No.  60 
powder.  5 parts ; Sanguinaria,  in  No.  60  powder,  5 parts.  Melt  the  resin  and  tar 
together,  then  stir  in  the  mixed  powders,  and  as  the  mass  cools  mould  it  into  rolls  or  pour 
it  into  boxes. — N.  F. 

Emplastrum  cerussas,  s.  Empl.  album  coctum. — White  lead  plaster,  E. ; Emplatre 
de  ceruse,  Empl.  blanc  cuit,  Fr. ; Bleiweisspflaster,  G. — Melt  together  lead  plaster  60 
parts  and  olive  oil  1 0 parts  ; add  finely-powdered  lead  carbonate  35  parts,  and  boil  witli 
the  occasional  addition  of  a little  water  until  a plaster  is  formed. — P.  G.  The  plaster 
may  be  obtained  in  one  operation  by  using  in  place  of  the  lead  plaster  the  requisite 
quantities  of  fat  and  litharge.  A similar  composition,  containing  a little  wax  and  pow- 
dered orris-root,  is  known  as  Malty  s plaster. 

Emplastrum  fuscum,  s.  Empl.  matris  fuscum,  Empl.  nigrum,  s.  noricum,  s.  minii 
adustum,  s.  universale.  Finely-powdered  red  oxide  of  lead  2 parts  and  olive  oil  4 parts 
are  boiled,  with  constant  stirring,  until  the  mass  assumes  a dark-brown  color,  when  1 part 
of  yellow  wax  is  added.  For  some  purposes  1 per  cent,  of  camphor  is  added,  when  it 


EMULSA. 


609 


is  known  as  Emplastrum  fuscuvn  camphoratum , P.  G.  The  plaster  is  put  up  in  square 
cakes  and  in  boxes,  and  is  also  sold  in  some  parts  of  the  Unit  ed  States  as  universal  plaster 
and  breast  plaster , and  as  a secret  preparation  under  different  names.  It  is  extensively 
employed  by  the  German  population,  and  known  to  them  as  Mut ter p faster,  Universalpflas- 
ter , etc.  A very  similar  preparation,  but  boiled  with  litharge  and  twice  the  above  amount 
of  fat,  is  known  in  France  as  Onguent  de  la  mire  Thecle  and  Empldtre  brun. 

Emplastrum  matris  album,  s.  Empl.  lithargyri  molle.  Melt  together  lead  plaster 
3 parts,  lard  2 parts,  yellow  wax  and  suet  each  1 part. — P.  G.  1872. 

Emplastrum  (ceratum)  minii  rubrum.  Triturate  100  parts  of  powdered  red  oxide 
of  lead  and  3 parts  of  camphor  with  60  parts  of  olive  oil.  Add  the  mixture  to  yellow 
wax  and  suet  each  100  parts  and  olive  oil  40  parts,  previously  heated  together,  and  stir 
well  until  it  has  congealed. — P.  G.  1872. 

Logan’s  Plaster.  Boil  together  over  a slow  fire  olive  oil  21  pints,  fresh  butter  4 
ounces,  Castile  soap  12  ounces,  litharge  16  ounces  avoirdupois,  until  the  mass  has  a pale- 
brown  color;  then  add  lead  carbonate  16  ounces,  and  continue  the  heat  until  the  plaster 
is  farmed ; lastly,  add  2 drachms  of  powdered  mastich. 

The  following  preparations  have  been  dropped  from  the  U.  S.  P.  1890  : 

Emplastrum  ammoniaci. — Ammoniac  Plaster.  Digest  100  parts  of  ammoniac  with 
150  parts  of  diluted  acetic  acid  in  a suitable  vessel,  avoiding  contact  with  metals,  until  it 
is  emulsionized ; then  strain  and  evaporate  on  a water-bath  to  the  proper  consistence. — 
U S.  1880. 

Emplastrum  asaf(ETID^e. — Asafoetida  Plaster.  Digest  35  parts  of  asafoetida  and 
15  parts  of  galbanum  with  120  parts  of  alcohol  on  a water-bath,  so  as  to  thoroughly  dis- 
integrate them,  strain  while  hot,  evaporate  to  the  consistence  of  honey,  and  add  35  parts 
of  lead  plaster  and  15  parts  of  yellow  wax,  previously  melted  together  ; stir  the  mixture 
well,  and  evaporate  to  the  proper  consistence. — U.  $.,  1880. 

Emplastrum  picis  canadensis. — Canada  Pitch  Plaster,  Hemlock  Plaster.  Melt 
together  90  parts  of  Canada  pitch  and  10  parts  of  yellow  wax;  strain  the  mixture,  and 
stir  constantly  until  it  thickens  on  cooling. — U.  S.  1880. 

EMULSA. — Emulsions. 

Emulsiones , P.  Gr. ; Emulsions , Fr. ; Emulsionen , Gr. ; Emulsiones,  It.,  Sp. ; Ilorchatas , Sp, 

The  term  “ emulsions  ” is  used  to  designate  mixtures  of  liquids  insoluble  in  one  another, 
where  one  is  suspended  in  the  other  in  the  form  of  minute  globules,  as  fat  in  milk,  and 
also  mixtures  in  which  solid  particles  of  substances  are  suspended  in  liquids  in  which  they 
are  insoluble,  as  in  the  case  of  camphor  or  resin  emulsions.  Formerly  emulsions  were 
included  under  the  general  head  of  mixtures,  u Misturae,”  but  a distinction  is  now  very 
properly  made,  so  as  to  restrict  the  term  emulsion  to  such  mixtures  mentioned  above  as 
have  a milk-like  appearance,  and  in  which  the  suspension  of  the  insoluble  liquid  or  solid 
is  more  or  less  permanent.  Nature  provides  types  of  emulsions  in  the  form  of  milk,  the 
natural  food  of  all  young  mammalia,  and  the  milk-like  juices  of  certain  plants  from 
which  the  official  and  other  gum  resins  are  obtained.  Fixed  and  volatile  oils,  as  well  as 
ethereal  liquids  and  resinous  substances,  are  suitable  for  exhibition  in  the  form  of  emul- 
sion, and  the  suspension  in  water  is  accomplished  by  the  use  of  appropriate  excipients, 
such  as  acacia,  tragacanth,  yolk  of  egg,  etc.,  etc.  ; many  oil-yielding  seeds,  as  well  as  the 
natural  gum-resins,  contain  gummy  and  albuminous  matter  by  means  of  which  the  oil 
and  resin  can  be  brought  into  perfect  suspension  in  water.  The  theory  of  emulsificatiori 
is  as  follows : The  insoluble  liquid  or  solid  in  a state  of  minute  division  is  completely 
surrounded  or  enveloped  by  the  vehicle  consisting  of  water  and  excipient,  and  thus  an 
opaque  mixture  is  produced  from  which  the  particles  cannot  separate  by  mere  force  of 
cohesion  ; the  stability  of  the  emulsion  depends  to  some  extent  upon  the  density  of  the 
vehicle,  and  it  will  be  found  that  the  presence  of  sugar  or  glycerin  increases  the  sus- 
pending power  of  gum,  whilst  the  addition  of  alcohol  or  glycerin  will  prevent  fermenta- 
tive changes  likely  to  arise  in  vegetable  solutions  if  kept  on  hand  for  some  time.  As  a 
rule,  emulsions  should  be  prepared  in  unglazed  wedgewood  or  porcelain  mortars  having  a 
flat  bottom,  and  in  the  case  of  seed  or  gum-resin  emulsions  mortars  of  deep  shape  and 
provided  with  hard  wood  pestles  are  preferable.  When  not  otherwise  specified,  seed 
emulsions  are  made  in  the  proportion  of  1 part  of  seed  to  10  parts  of  water,  and  the  seed, 
as  well  as  gum  resins,  should  never  be  used  in  the  shape  of  fine  powder,  but,  after  having 
been  freed  from  dust  and  dirt,  the  material  should  be  crushed  into  coarse  powder,  when 
a few  drops  of  water  should  be  added  and  the  whole  beaten  into  a smooth  pasty  mass, 
39 


610 


EMULSUM  AMMONIACI. 


after  which  the  remainder  of  the  water  is  gradually  added  with  constant  trituration  and 
keeping  the  mass  well  scraped  down  from  the  sides  and  bottom  of  the  mortar  by  means 
of  a spatula.  Finally,  the  emulsion  is  passed  through  a well-wetted  strainer  of  flannel 
or  cheesecloth  to  remove  the  inert  woody  fibre.  In  the  case  of  emulsion  of  lycopodium 
the  seed  is  first  triturated  with  some  pressure  by  itself  in  a mortar,  so  as  to  rupture  the 
hard  seed  envelope ; when  the  powder  becomes  adhesive,  a little  water  is  added,  with 
which  a smooth  soft  paste  can  be  formed,  and  afterward  the  balance  of  the  water  is  added 
under  continuous  stirring.  This  emulsion  should  never  be  strained.  When  fixed  oils  are 
to  be  emulsionized  it  is  essential  that  definite  proportions  of  gum,  water,  and  oil  be  used 
to  prepare  the  primary  emulsion,  which  can  then  be  further  diluted  as  wanted.  Now  that 
acacia  of  choice  quality  and  moderate  price  has  again  come  into  the  market,  it  may  be 
looked  upon  as  the  best  emulsifying  agent  for  fixed  and  volatile  oils,  and  the  simplest 
plan  to  follow  for  fixed  oils  is  to  place  one-quarter  as  much  finely  powdered  acacia  into  a 
dry  mortar  as  will  be  used  of  oil ; then  add  the  oil  and  triturate  well  together  into  a 
smooth  mixture.  Now  add,  all  at  once , twice  as  much  water  as  has  been  used  of  acacia, 
and  triturate  thoroughly  until  a perfect  emulsion  has  been  formed,  which  is  evidenced  by 
the  appearance  of  a white  pasty  mass  and  a peculiar  crackling  noise  as  the  pestle  is  drawn 
through  the  adhesive  mixture.  Having  scraped  the  primary  emulsion  well  down  with  a 
spatula,  the  diluent  may  be  slowly  added  with  constant  stirring.  Not  less  than  one-quar- 
ter nor  more  than  one-half  as  much  acacia  as  oil  should  be  used.  The  above  plan  will  not 
answer  if  granulated  acacia  is  used,  as  it  dissolves  in  water  more  slowly  than  the  fine 
powder  : in  the  case  of  granulated  acacia  it  will  be  found  more  advisable  to  take  one-half 
as  much  acacia  as  oil ; place  the  acacia  in  the  mortar,  add  the  oil  and  one-half  as  much 
water  as  has  been  taken  of  oil  and  acacia  together  (for  instance,  oil  1 fluidounce,  acacia 
4 drachms,  water  6 fluidrachms)  ; then  triturate  well  until  a perfect  emulsion  results, 
which  dilute  gradually  as  desired.  Both  of  the  preceding  methods  are  equally  well 
adapted  for  liquid  oleoresins,  such  as  copaiba.  If  Peru  balsam  is  to  be  emulsionized, 
the  addition  of  a little  alcohol  to  the  same  will  facilitate  the  process.  Some  prefer  to 
emulsionize  the  oil  by  adding  it  to  a previously  prepared  mucilage  of  acacia,  but  in  our 
experience  the  two  methods  above  stated,  if  strictly  followed,  will  invariably  result  in 
success,  and  require  less  skill  in  manipulation  than  any  other  method.  It  is  desirable  to 
use  separate  graduates  for  oil  and  water,  to  avoid  the  possibility  of  carrying  oil-globules 
with  the  water  used  for  dilution,  as  these  might  fail  to  be  fully  incorporated,  and  after- 
ward would  rise  to  the  surface.  If  yolk  of  egg  is  to  be  used  as  the  excipient,  an  ounce 
of  oil  will  require  one  yolk,  and  this  should  be  triturated  by  itself  first  until  it  becomes 
adhesive,  when  a portion  of  oil  may  be  added,  then  a part  of  the  water,  and  after  thorough 
trituration  more  oil  and  water  alternately,  until  the  emulsion  has  been  completed;  in  place 
of  yolk  of  egg  the  official  glycerite  of  yolk  of  egg  (glyconin)  has  been  employed  with 
decided  advantage.  When  solid  fats,  camphors,  some  volatile  oils,  resinous  extracts,  and 
even  oleoresins,  are  to  be  emulsified,  it  will  be  found  advantageous  to  dissolve  them  in  a 
small  quantity  of  fixed  oils  (oil  of  almond  or  olive  oil),  and  then  treat  as  directed  above 
for  fixed  oils  : the  emulsions  thus  prepared  will  be  more  desirable  in  every  way  and 
surely  far  more  stable.  Volatile  liquids,  such  as  ether,  chloroform,  and  oil  of  turpentine, 
are  best  emulsionized  by  what  is  known  as  Forbes’s  plan  : this  consists  of  placing  in  a 
perfectly  dry  bottle  the  liquid  to  be  emulsionized,  then  adding  for  each  fluidounce  of  the 
liquid  20  grains  of  powdered  acacia,  mixing  well  by  agitation,  adding  £ fluidounce  of 
water,  and  thoroughly  incorporating  by  continued  agitation  until  the  emulsion  is  com- 
plete, and  then  diluting  by  adding  the  remaining  water  gradually.  On  standing,  a dense 
cream-like  layer  is  apt  to  separate,  which  can  be  readily  reincorporated  by  simple  agita- 
tion. Although  this  method  will  yield  a perfect  mixture,  the  stability  of  the  emulsion  will 
be  improved  by  using  at  least  120  grains  of  acacia  for  each  fluidounce  of  the  oil  or  ether. 

Mucilage  of  Irish  moss,  dextrin,  and  tincture  of  soap-bark,  which  have  been  suggested 
as  substitutes  for  acacia,  will  be  found  inferior  to  it  as  emulsifying  agents,  and  the  tinc- 
ture of  soap-bark  moreover  possesses  toxic  properties. 

The  emulsio  oleosa  of  continental  Europe  is  composed  of  2 parts  of  oil  of  sweet 
almond,  1 part  acacia,  and  17  parts  of  water,  all  by  weight. 

EMULSUM  AMMONIACI,  TJ.  S. — Emulsion  of  Ammoniac. 

Mistura  ammoniaci , U.  S.  1880,  Br.  ; Emulsio  ammoniaci , Lac  ammoniaci. — Ammo- 
niacum  mixture , Milk  of  ammoniac , E. ; Emulsion  ( mixture ) de  gomme  ammoniaque , 
Lait  ammoniacal , Fr. ; Ammoniak- Emulsion,  Gr. 


EMULSUM  AMYGDA LJS.—EMULS UM  ASAFCETIDJE. 


611 


Preparation. — Ammoniac  40  Gm.  ; Water,  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc. 
Rub  the  ammoniac,  in  a warmed  mortar,  with  900  Cc.  of  water,  at  first  very  gradually 
added,  until  a uniform  emulsion  results.  Then  strain  the  mixture  into  a graduated  ves- 
sel, and  wash  the  mortar  and  strainer  with  enough  water  to  make  the  product  measure 
1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

The  foregoing  formula  corresponds  to  18.24  grains  of  ammoniac  for  each  fluidounce  of 
water;  the  British  preparation  is  slightly  weaker,  being  nearly  13.7  grains  for  1 fluid- 
ounce  (Imperial  measure). 

Action  and  Uses. — Emulsion  of  ammoniac  is  employed  chiefly  in  the  treatment 
of  chronic  bronchitis  and  bronchorrhoea.  The  dose  is  Gm.  16-32  (f^-i). 

EMULSUM  AMYGDALAE,  77.  S, — Emulsion  of  Almond. 

Mistura  amygdalae , U.  S.  1880,  Br.  ; Emulsio  amygdalae  s.  amygda larum , Emulsio 
simplex. — Milk  of  almonds , Almond  mixture , E. ; Emulsion  simple , Lait  d’ amandes, 
Fr. ; Mandelemulsion , Mandelmilch , G. 

Preparation. — Sweet  Almond,  60  Gm. ; Acacia,  in  fine  powder,  10  Gm.  ; Sugar,  30 
Gm.  ; Water,  a sufficient  quantity;  to  make  1000  Cc.  Having  blanched  the  almond, 
add  the  acacia  and  sugar,  and  beat  them  in  a mortar  until  they  are  thoroughly  mixed. 
Then  rub  the  mass  with  900  Cc.  of  water,  at  first  very  gradually  added,  until  a uniform 
mixture  results.  Strain  this  into  a graduated  vessel,  and  wash  the  mortar  and  strainer 
with  enough  water  to  make  the  product  measure  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  whole  thoroughly. — 
U S. 

To  make  one  pint  of  emulsion  of  almond  will  require  460  grains  of  sweet  almond,  77 
grains  of  acacia,  and  230  grains  of  sugar. 

Take  of  compound  powder  of  almonds  2£  ounces ; distilled  water  20  fluidounces.  Rub 
the  powder  with  a little  of  the  water  into  a thin  paste,  then  add  the  remainder  of  the 
water,  and  strain  through  muslin. — Br. 

The  presence  of  acacia  in  both  preparations  is  unnecessary,  as  it  does  not  increase  the- 
stability  of  either  or  the  amount  of  oil  suspended. 

Emulsio  am ygd alarum  composita. — Take  of  sweet  almonds  4 parts  ; hyoscyamus- 
seed  1 part ; diluted  bitter-almond  water  64  parts.  Make  an  emulsion,  and  add  of  white 
sugar  6 parts,  calcined  magnesia  1 part. — P.  G.  1872. 

Looch  album. — White  linctus,  E. ; Looch  blanc,  Fr. — 30  parts  of  sweet  and  2 parts 
of  bitter  almonds  are  blanched,  triturated  with  20  parts  of  sugar  and  120  parts  of  water, 
and  the  emulsion  strained  and  gradually  added,  with  continued  trituration,  to  a mixture 
of  10  parts  of  sugar  and  J part  of  powdered  tragacanth.  Finally,  add  10  parts  of  orange- 
flower  water.  The  finished  preparation  weighs  150  parts. — F.  Cod. 

Action  and  Uses. — Almond  emulsion  is  an  excellent  demulcent  in  acute  laryngeal 
and  bronchial  inflammations,  dysentery , and  irritations  of  the  urinary  passages.  It  should 
be  administered  freely.  The  white  linctus  of  the  French  Codex  is  an  excellent  palliative 
of  pharngeal,  laryngeal,  and  bronchial  irritation. 

EMULSUM  ASAFCETID7E,  77.  S. — Emulsion  of  Asafcetida. 

Mistura  asafoetidse , U.  S.  1880  ; Lac  asafoetidac. — Asafoetida  mixture , Milk  of  asafoetida , 
E. ; Mixture  (Lait)  d' asafoetida,  Fr. ; Asafoetida- Emulsion,  Stinkasantmilch,  G. 

Preparation. — Asafoetida,  in  selected  tears,  40  Gm.  ; Water,  a sufficient  quantity ; 
to  make  1000  Cc.  Rub  the  asafoetida,  in  a warmed  mortar,  with  900  Cc.  of  water,  at 
first  very  gradually  added,  until  a uniform  emulsion  results.  Then  strain  the  mixture 
into  a graduated  vessel,  and  wash  the  mortar  and  strainer  with  enough  water  to  make  the 
product  measure  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  whole  thoroughly. — TJ.  S. 

This  formula  corresponds  to  18.24  grains  of  asafoetida  for  each  fluidounce  of  water. 

A syrup  of  asafoetida, , of  the  same  strength  as  the  emulsion,  may  be  prepared  by  tritu- 
rating 150  grains  of  selected  tears  with  small  quantities  of  water,  decanting  the  concen- 
trated emulsion  until  4 fluidounces  are  obtained,  in  which  6 troyounces  of  sugar  are  dis- 
solved by  agitation.  While  at  first  milk-white,  it  acquires  after  exposure  a pinkish  color ; 
the  resin,  which  partially  separates  on  standing,  is  easily  incorporated  by  agitation.  If 
desired,  the  asafoetida  odor  may  be  covered  by  the  addition  of  a little  oil  of  bitter 
almonds. 

Action  and  Uses. — Asafoetida  emulsion  is  the  most  prompt  and  decided  in  its 
action  of  all  the  forms  of  administering  asafoetida  by  the  mouth.  It  is  frequently  given 


612 


EMULSUM  CHLOROFORMI.— EMULSUM  SC  AMMON II. 


as  an  enema,  but  for  the  latter  purpose  a mixture  of  an  ounce  of  tincture  of  asafoetida 
with  half  a pint  of  water  is  more  convenient  and  efficient.  The  dose  of  emulsion  of 
asafoetida  is  1 or  2 tablespoonfuls — Gm.  16-32  (fgss-i). 


EMULSUM  CHLOROFORMI,  U.  Emulsion  op  Chloroform. 

Mistura  chloroformi,  U.  S.  1880;  Emulsio  chloroformi. — Emulsion  de  chloro forme,  Fr.  ; 
Chloroform- Emulsion,  G. 

Preparation. — Chloroform,  40  Cc. ; Expressed  Oil  of  Almond,  60  Cc. ; Tragacanth, 
in  very  fine  powder,  15  Gm.  ; Water,  in  sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Intro- 
duce the  tragacanth  into  a perfectly  dry  bottle  of  sufficient  capacity,  add  the  chloroform, 
and  shake  the  bottle  thoroughly,  so  that  every  part  of  the  surface  may  become  wetted. 
Then  add  about  250  Cc.  of  water,  and  incorporate  it  by  vigorous  shaking.  Next  add  the 
expressed  oil  of  almond  in  several  portions,  shaking  after  each  addition,  and  when  the  oil 
has  been  thoroughly  emulsified,  add  enough  water,  in  divided  portions,  shaking  after  each 
addition,  until  the  product  measures  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

Since  the  Pharmacopoeia  directs  4 and  6 per  cent,  by  volume  of  chloroform  and  oil  of 
sweet  almond  respectively,  ^ pint  of  the  emulsion  may  be  conveniently  prepared  by  shaking 
154  minims  of  chloroform  with  55  grains  of  tragacanth,  adding  2 ounces  of  water,  then 
230  minims  of  expressed  oil  of  almond,  and  finally  sufficient  water  to  bring  the  volume 
of  the  finished  product  up  to  8 fluidounces. 

This  formula  differs  radically  from  that  of  the  Pharmacopoeia  of  1880,  which  directed 
40  grains  of  chloroform  and  10  grains  of  camphor  in  each  fluidounce  and  yolk  of  egg  to 
be  used  as  the  emulsifying  agent. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  emulsion  forms  a stable  preparation  which  may  sometimes 
be  convenient  for  the  administration  of  chloroform  in  cases  of  gastralgia , flatulent , biliary , 
renal , and  uterine  colic , and  in  nervous  or  hysterical  paroxysms.  The  dose  is  1 or  2 table- 
spoonfuls (Gm.  16-32  (f^ss-i). 


EMULSUM  GUAIACI. — Gu ala  cum  Emulsion. 

Mistura  guaiaci , Br. — Guaiacum  mixture , E. ; Emulsion  de  resine  de  ga'iac,  Lait  de 
ga'iac,  Fr. ; Guajak- Emulsion , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Guaiacum  Resin,  in  powder,  Refined  Sugar,  each  I ounce; 
Acacia,  powdered,  \ ounce ; Cinnamon-water,  1 pint  (imperial).  Triturate  the  guaiacum 
with  the  sugar  and  the  gum,  adding  gradually  the  cinnamon-water. — Br. 

This  is  a partial  emulsion  of  guaiac  resin,  which,  on  exposure,  changes  in  color.  (See 
Resina  Guaiaci.) 

Action  and  Uses. — Although  unpleasant  to  the  taste,  it  is  perhaps  less  repulsive 
than  the  tincture  of  guaiac.  Very  probably,  also,  the  guaiacum  in  it,  being  thoroughly 
divided  by  sugar  and  gum,  is  more  readily  acted  upon  and  absorbed  by  the  stomach  than 
the  solid  mass  precipitated  from  the  tincture  would  be.  Dose , from  16-64  Cc.  (f^ss-ij) 
several  times  a day. 


EMULSUM  SCAMMONII.— Scammony  Emulsion. 

Mistura  scammonii , Br. — Emulsio  purgans  cum  scammonio,  Lac  scammonii. — Scammony 
mixture , Milk  of  scammony , E. ; Emulsion  purgative  avec  la  scammonee,  Mixture  de  scam- 
monee, Fr. ; Scammonium- Emulsion,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Scammony,  in  powder,  6 grains  ; Milk,  2 fluidounces.  Tri- 
turate the  scammony  with  a little  of  the  milk  until  a uniform  emulsion  is  obtained. — Br. 

Scammony  is  readily  emulsionized  with  milk,  the  preparation  being  preferable  to  one 
made  with  water,  as  the  acrid  nauseous  taste  is  better  concealed  by  milk. 

Action  and  Uses. — Scammony  forms  with  unskimmed  milk  a fine  uniform  emul- 
sion which  perfectly  suspends  the  drug  and  conceals  its  acrid  and  nauseous  taste.  The 
mixture  is  intended  to  be  a dose  for  an  adult ; for  a child  of  five  years  one-third  of  the 
quantity  will  suffice. 


ENEMA  T A. —ENEMA  OPII. 


613 


ENEMATA. — Clysters. 

Clysmata , Clysteria. — Lavements , Clysteres , Fr.  ; Klystiere,  G. ; Lavativo , It. ; Ayuda,  Sp- 
Clysters  are  liquid  medicines  which  are  injected  into  the  rectum  by  means  of  a syringe, 
and  ordinarily  consist  of  water  or  of  infusions  mixed  with  solutions  of  salts  or  holding 
insoluble  substances  in  suspension.  They  are  rarely  if  ever  prepared  by  the  apothecary, 
but  are  generally  made  at  the  bedside,  and  the  introduction  of  formulas  into  the  Pharma- 
copoeia serves  mainly  the  purpose  of  informing  the  physician  of  the  mode  of  their  prepa- 
ration. 


ENEMA  ALOES,  Br. — Enema  of  Aloes. 

Lavement,  aloetique , Fr. ; Aloehlystier , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Aloes  40  grains  ; Potassium  Carbonate  15  grains  ; Mucilage 
of  Starch  10  fluidounces.  Mix,  and  rub  together. — Br. 

Action  and  Uses. — It  is  far  from  certain  that  the  enema  of  aloes  exerts  any 
special  influence,  or  any  that  would  not  be  secured  equally  well  by  a solution  of  common 
salt  or  of  a magnesium  salt.  Aloetic  enemata,  when  they  are  intended  to  purge,  should 
be  large,  but  when  they  are  to  be  retained  to  destroy  ascarides  of  the  rectum  or  to  stim- 
ulate the  uterus , they  should  not  exceed  Gm.  60-90  (fgij-iij). 

ENEMA  ASAFCETIDA,  Br, — Enema  of  Asafcetida. 

Enema  foetidum  s.  antihystericum , Clysma  tonicum. — Lavement  d'ase  fetide , Fr. ; Asa- 
fo t ida- Klys tier , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Asafoetida  30  grains;  Distilled  Water  4 fluidounces.  Rub 
the  asafcetida  in  a mortar,  with  the  water  added  gradually,  so  as  to  form  an  emulsion. — 
Br. 

This  is  identical  with  a mixture  of  equal  parts  of  water  and  milk  of  asafoetida. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  use  of  asafetida  by  enema  is  often  the  most  eligible 
mode  of  its  administration,  on  account  of  the  patient’s  inability  to  swallow,  as  in  hysteria, , 
or  because  it  acts  very  promptly,  as  in  cases  of  intestinal  flatus.  The  association  of 
aloes  with  the  emulsion  of  asafetida  forms  a very  useful  enema  in  cases  of  constipation 
with  flatulence.  A mixture  of  the  wine  or  tincture  of  aloes  and  tincture  of  asafetida, 
sufficiently  diluted  with  water,  is  far  better  than  the  officinal  enema  made  with  water 
alone. 

ENEMA  MAGNESII  SULPHATIS,  Br, — Enema  of  Magnesium 

Sulphate. 

Enema  catharticum. — Lavement  de  sulfate  de  magnesie , Fr. ; Bitter salz-Klystier , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Magnesium  Sulphate  1 ounce  ; Olive  Oil  1 fluidounce  ; Muci- 
lage of  Starch  15  fluidounces.  Dissolve  the  magnesium  sulphate  in  the  mucilage  of 
starch,  add  the  oil,  and  mix. — Br. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  oil  and  mucilage  in  this  enema  are  worse  than  useless. 
A simple  solution  of  Epsom  or  of  Glauber  salt  in  water  is  preferable.  It  may  be  used 
as  an  evacuant  of  constipated  bowels  when  a prompt  operation  is  desired,  as  in  cases  of 
obstinate  constipation  or  of  congestion  of  the  brain.  For  such  purposes  an  enema  should 
always  be  large. 


ENEMA  OPH,  Br. — Enema  of  Opium. 

Enema  anodynum  s.  sedativum. — Lavement  opiace  anodin , Fr. ; Opium- K lystier,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Tincture  of  Opium  \ fluidrachm ; Mucilage  of  Starch  2 fluid* 
ounces.  Mix. — Br. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  proportion  of  laudanum  or  of  other  liquid  opiate  in  an 
enema  must  vary  with  the  age  and  state  of  the  patient,  with  the  local  or  general  narcotic 
effect  that  is  sought,  etc.  As  the  enema  ought  to  be  retained,  the  quantity  of  liquid  in 
it  should  not  exceed  Gm.  60  (fgij)  ; and  if  designed  to  affect  the  system  it  should  con- 
sist of  water,  which  is  promptly  absorbed,  and  not  of  starch,  which  may  not  be  absorbed 
at  all. 


614 


ENEMA  TA  BA  CI.—EPIPIIEG  US. 


ENEMA  TABACI. — Enema  of  Tobacco. 

Lavement  de  tabac , Fr.  ; Tabak-Kly slier,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Leaf  Tobacco  20  grains;  Boiling  Water  8 fluidounces.  Infuse 
in  a covered  vessel  for  half  an  hour,  ana  strain.— Br.  1867. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  quantity  stated  in  the  formula  is  intended  for  one  enema. 
The  infusion  of  tobacco  (U.  S.  P.  1870)  was  stronger  than  this  preparation  by  one-half, 
but  was  prepared  in  the  same  way  and  used  for  the  same  internal  purposes — that  is  to 
say,  for  producing  nausea  and  muscular  relaxation  in  cases  of  strangulated  hernia  and 
promoting  alvine  evacuations  in  ileus,  as  well  as  in  the  various  cases  indicated  in  the 
article  on  Tobacco.  About  Gm.  32  (f^j)  of  the  former  American  preparation  was 
intended  to  be  given  at  a time.  Its  use  requires  caution. 

ENEMA  TEREBINTHIN-ZE,  JBr, — Enema  of  Turpentine. 

Lavement  terebinthine , Fr. ; Terpentinbl-K ly&tier,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Oil  of  Turpentine  1 fluidounce ; Mucilage  of  Starch  15 
fluidounces.  Mix. — Br. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  proportion  of  oil  of  turpentine  in  an  enema  should  vary 
with  the  case  in  which  it  is  used.  It  is  most  frequently  employed  to  lessen  tympanitic 
distension  of  the  bowels,  but  is  of  little  use,  comparatively,  unless  the  flatus  is  confined 
in  the  colon.  It  sometimes  affords  great  relief  to  suflerin  gin  vesical  calculus.  It  has  been 
used  with  alleged  advantage  in  certain  cases  of  amenorrhoea  and  to  destroy  ascarides  of 
the  rectum.  It  may  be  administered  during  a paroxysm  of  hysteria.  When  it  is  intended 
that  a turpentine  enema  shall  be  retained,  its  bulk  should  be  small,  and  it  should  also  be 
made  into  an  emulsion  with  yelk  of  egg. 

EPIPHEGUS. — Beechdrop. 

Cancer-root,  E. ; Orobanche  de  Virginie,  Fr. ; Krebswurz , G. 

Epiphegus  (Orobanche,  Linne)  virginiana,  Barton,  s.  E.  americanus,  Nuttall.  Meehan, 
Native  Flowers , ii.  p.  93. 

Nat.  Ord. — Orobanchacese. 

Origin. — A perennial  parasite  growing  upon  the  roots  of  beech  trees  in  North  Amer- 
ica from  New  Brunswick  to  Florida  and  Missouri,  and  flowering  from  August  to  October. 
It  is  collected  in  autumn. 

Description. — The  subterraneous  portion  consists  of  a subglobular  scaly  tuber 
12  Mm.  0 inch)  and  more  in  diameter.  The  stem  is  about  30  Cm.  (12  inches)  high, 
much  branched,  angular,  with  ovate  scales  at  the  base  of  the  branches  and  flowers.  The 
flowers  are  in  long  spicate  racemes,  the  lower  ones  fertile  and  with  a short  corolla,  the 
upper  ones  sterile,  with  a long  tubular  and  two-lipped  corolla,  about  8 Mm.  (£  inch)  long. 
The  stamens  are  didynamous,  and  the  superior  capsule  is  one-celled,  two-valved,  and  con- 
tains numerous  minute  seeds.  All  parts  of  the  plant  have  a pale  purplish-  or  yellowish- 
brown  color,  and  a disagreeable,  bitter,  and  somewhat  astringent  taste. 

The  constituents  of  the  plant  have  not  been  investigated. 

Allied  Plants,  belonging  to  the  same  natural  order,  have  been  medicinally  employed  in  Europe 
and  America.  They  are  all  parasitic,  destitute  of  green  foliage,  and  have  a more  or  less  bitter, 
astringent,  and  nauseous  taste.  We  mention  the  following  North  American  species : 

Conopholis  (Orobanche,  Linne ) Americana,  Wallroth. — Cancer-root,  Squaw-root,  E. — It  is 
from  10-15  Cm.  (4-6  inches)  high,  20  Mm.  (§  inch)  thick,  fleshy,  yellowish  or  brownish,  covered 
with  pale  shining  imbricated  scales,  resembling  a pine-cone.  The  flowers  have  a curved  two- 
lipped corolla  and  four  exserted  stamens.  It  grows  in  oak  woods. 

Aphyllon  uniflorum,  Gray , s.  Orobanche  uniflora,  Linnb. — Naked  broom-rape,  E. — It  grows 
in  woodlands,  has  a very  short  nearly  subterraneous  scaly  stem  bearing  one  or  several  peduncles 
about  10  Cm.  (4  inches)  long,  each  with  a nodding  flower  having  a curved  tubular  somewhat 
two-lipped  corolla  and  included  stamens.  Its  color  is  whitish  or  pale  tawny. 

Medical  Action  and  Uses.— This  plant  appears  to  be  astringent.  Dried  and 
powdered,  it  has  been  given  internally  to  control  diarrhoea  and  applied  externally  to  fun- 
gous and  unhealthy  ulcers.  Conopholis , as  its  popular  name  implies,  has  been  used  for 
similar  purposes,  and  aphyllon  is  credited  with  analogous  virtues. 


EQ  U1SETUM.—ERG0TA. 


615 


EQUISETUM. — Horsetail. 

Prele , Fr. ; Schachtelhalm , G. ; Coda  di  cavallo  It. : Cola  de  caballo , Sp. 

Equisetum  arvense,  Limit , and  Eq.  liiemale,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Equisetaceae. 

Description. — Both  plants  are  leafless,  and  grow  in  damp  soil  in  Europe  and  North 
America. 

E.  aryense,  common  horsetail , has  a simple,  smooth,  fertile  stem,  appearing  in  March 
or  April.  The  barren  stems,  which  alone  are  used,  are  slender,  about  60  Cm.  (2  feet) 
long,  green,  jointed,  about  twelve-furrowed,  with  simple  or  compound  quadrangular 
branches  bearing  at  the  joints  four  scales. 

E.  hiemale,  scouring  rush  or  shave-grass , has  a simple  stem  about  60  Cm.  (2  feet)  or 
more  long,  round,  grooved,  the  ridges  rough,  and  at  the  joints  with  sheaths  of  about 
twenty  narrow  teeth,  having  a black  girdle  at  the  base  and  tip. 

Constituents. — The  scouring  rush  was  analyzed  by  Diebold  (1828),  who  found  in 
it  resin,  wax,  sugar,  starch,  and  salts.  John  obtained  13  per  cent,  of  ash,  63  per  cent,  of 
which  (or  8 per  cent,  of  the  plant)  was  silica.  The  common  horsetail  gave  to  Willing 
(1856)  4.07  per  cent,  of  ash,  41.4  per  cent,  of  which  was  silica.  Braconnot’s  equisetic 
acid  (1828)  is  aconitic  acid , according  to  Baup  (1851). 

Action  and  Uses. — The  various  species  of  Equisetum  have  had  the  reputation  of 
being  diuretic  and  astringent.  It  has  been  employed  in  dropsy , calculous  affections , hsema- 
turia , nocturnal  incontinence  of  urine , diabetes  insipidus , haemoptysis,  diarrhoea , and  dysen- 
tery, and  also  as  an  emmenagogue.  If  too  freely  used  it  is  said  to  render  the  urine 
bloody,  and  therefore  it  should  not  be  given  when  the  urine  is  high-colored  and  the 
general  condition  feverish.  A decoction  may  be  prepared  with  Gm.  4-8  (33-ij)  of  the 
dried  plant  to  a pint  of  water,  of  which  Gm.  64  (fgij)  may  be  taken  several  times  a 
day  ; or,  the  fresh  expressed  juice  may  be  given  in  the  dose  of  from  Gm.  30-90  (§j-ij) 
daily,  diluted  with  water  or  whey. 

Arenaria  rubra.  It  appears  that  this  plant  has  long  been  used  in  Malta  and  in 
Algeria  as  a remedy  for  dropsy , gravel,  and  inflammations  of  the  urinary  passages,  and 
that  its  use  involves  no  risk.  The  large  proportion  of  its  alkaline  and  earthy  salts 
appears  to  explain  its  diuretic  virtues.  It  is  best*  administered  in  decoction  or  infusion 
made  with  3 per  cent,  of  the  dried  plant  ( Bull . de  Therap .,  xcvii.  69). 

ERGOTA,  U.  S.,  Br.— Ergot. 

Secale  cornutum,  P.  G. ; Secale  clavatum , Mater  secalis , Clavus  secalinus. — Spurred  rye , 
E. ; Ergot  de  seigle,  Seigle  ergote  (noir),  Ble  cornu,  Fr.  ; Mutterkorn , Kornmutter,  Zapfen- 
korn,  Hungerkorn , G. ; Segata  cornuta,  Grano  speronato,  It. ; Cuernecillo  ( Tizon ) de  cen- 
teno , Sp. 

The  sclerotium  (compact  mycelium  or  spawn)  of  Claviceps  purpurea  ( Fries ),  Tulasne , 
replacing  the  grain  (produced  within  the  paleae,  Br .)  of  rye,  Secale  cereale,  Linne,  Steph. 
and  Church,  Med.  Bot .,  plate  113;  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  303. 

Nat.  Ord. — Fungi,  Ascomycetes. 

Origin. — The  ergot  fungus  and  similar  but  probably  distinct  organisms  are  met  with 
upon  many  grasses  and  species  of  Carex  and  Cyperus.  For  medicinal  purposes  that  of 
rye  alone  is  collected.  In  dts  development  three  distinct  stages  are  observed : At  the 
flowering  season  one  or  more  ovaries  in  an  ear  of  rye  appear  covered  by  a sweet  yellowish 
mucus,  the  so-called  honey-dew  of  rye,  which  has  a disagreeable  odor  and  is  avoided  by 
bees,  but  attracts  other  insects,  mainly  ants  and  beetles,  which  were  formerly  considered 
to  cause  the  disease  Qf  the  grain.  This  honey-dew  contains  innumerable  microscopic  cells 
called  conidia,  and  a sugar  which  reduces  alkaline  solutions  of  cupric  oxide  to  cuprous 
oxide,  a decomposition  product  of  the  constituents  of  the  ovary  caused  by  the  develop- 
ing fungus.  The  mycelium  is  formed  of  filamentous  cells  called  hyphae,  with  an  outer 
layer  forming  a kind  of  membrane,  the  hymenium,  composed  of  short  linear  cells,  the 
basidia,  by  which  the  oblong  or  oval  conidia  are  separated.  In  this  stage  of  develop- 
ment it  was  formerly  considered  a distinct  fungus,  and  received  various  names,  the  best 
known  being  Sphacelia  segetum,  Leveille  ; this  is  often  used  as  a descriptive  term  for  the 
first  stage,  which  is  completed  when  the  hyphae  have  penetrated  the  lower  part  of  the 
ovary  and  the  separation  of  the  conidia  ceases ; the  relation  of  the  sphacelia  to  ergot  was 
first  made  known  by  Meyen  (1841). 

The  hyphae  of  the  sphacelia  now  begins  to  unite  at  the  base  of  the  ovary  into  a com- 


616 


ERGOTA. 


Fig.  108. 


\w 


Fig.  109. 


pact  body,  which  is  purplish-black  externally,  and  rapidly  grows  in  length,  carrying  upon 
its  apex,  in  the  form  of  a hood,  the  remains  of  the  ovary  and  fragments  of  the  sphacelia- 
tissue.  Occasionally  the  formation  of  the  honey-dew  does  not  commence  until  some  time 
after  fructification  has  taken  place  and  the  fruit  is  partially  developed ; in  such  a case 
the  ergot  will  be  crowned  by  a stunted  grain.  When  full  grown  the  second  stage  of  the 
fungus  has  been  reached,  which  forms  the  officinal  ergot,  or  sclerotium , and  was  formerly 
regarded  as  a distinct  fungus,  named  Sclerotium  (Spermcedia,  Fries , Clavaria,  Schrunk ) 
Clavus,  De  Candolle. 

In  the  succeeding  spring  small  circular  patches  of  the  external  layer  are  loosened  and 
fold  back,  while  at  the  same  time  small  heads  make  their  appearance,  which,  at  first 
white,  change  to  yellowish,  reddish,  and  finally  purple,  and  are  upon  slender,  pale-purplish, 
curved  stipes.  On  the  surface  of  the  head  small  wart-like  excrescences  are  formed,  con- 
taining the  apertures  of  bottle-shaped  cavities  or  conceptacles,  the  perithecia.  Each  one 
of  these  conceptacles  contains  a large  number  of  somewhat  fusiform  cells  or  spore-sacs, 
the  asci , each  one  of  these  containing  eight  filiform  spores,  which  are  discharged  from 
the  aperture  of  the  conceptacle  agglutinated  in  a bundle.  The  formation  of  the  spores 
takes  place  about  the  time  of  the  flowering  of  rye,  and  when 
brought  in  contact  with  its  flowers  the  spores  develop  again  the 
sphacelia.  The  spore-producing  heads  are  nourished  from  the 
contents  of  tissues  of  the  sclerotium,  which  at  first  becomes 
loose  and  spongy  from  the  disappearance  of  the  oil,  and  finally 
shrivels  and  is  destroyed.  This  third  and  final  stage  was  for- 
merly likewise  -regarded  as  a distinct  fungus,  known,  among 
other  names,  as  Cordiceps  purpurea,  Fries,  until 
Tulasne  (1853)-proved  it  to  be  merely  the  final 
stage  in  the  development  of  a fungus,  as  described 
above.  The  production  of  spores  may  be  observed 
by  leaving  the  ergot  in  the  open  air  or  by  keep- 
ing it  upon  moist  earth  under  a bell-glass ; we 
have  noticed  it  in  a damp  stoppered  bottle  con- 
taining some  ergot. 

It  will  be  seen  that  the  officinal  ergot  is  merely 
the  intermediate  or  dormant  state  of  a fungus 
named  by  the  different  pharmacopoeias  sclerotium, 

U.  S.,  compact  mycelium  or  spawn,  Br.,  and  stro- 
mata sterilla  (sterile  beds),  P.  G.,  1872. 

The  United  States  imported  7553  pounds  of 
ergot  during  the  fiscal  year  1866-67,  and  during 
the  years  1875-82  an  average  of  98,326  pounds  annually. 

Description. — Ergot  forms  a solid  somewhat  fusiform  body, 
which  is  2 to  3 Cm.  (f  to  1?  inches)  long, 

3 Mm.  (i  inch)  thick,  subcylindrical  or  often 
obtusely  triangular,  tapering  at  both  ends, 
usually  somewhat  curved,  with  three  longitu- 
dinal furrows  and  an  easily-detached  yellow- 
ish, small  appendage  or  hood  at  the  apex. 

Externally  of  a purplish-black  color,  with 
the  surface  frequently  fissured  transversely, 
it  is  whitish,  with  some  purplish  striae,  inter- 
nally of  a uniform  texture,  and  breaks  readily 
with  a smooth  fracture.  It  has  a peculiar 
heavy  odor,  particularly  when  moist  or  when 
treated  with  potassium  or  sodium  hydroxide  „i|iw 

solution;  its  taste  is  oily  and  disagreeable.  Longjtudinal  section  of 
It  is  frequently  attacked  by  a mite,  from  frn,‘+w  shnwiue 
which  it  may  be  preserved  by  thoroughly 
drying  it  and  keeping  it  in  well-stoppered  bottles  or  by  putting 
chloroform  into  the  bottle  containing  it.  Ergot  appears  to  preserve  its  virtues  not 
much  over  a year,  and  should  therefore  be  annually  renewed,  the  Pharmacopoeia  direct- 
ing that  old  ergot,  which  breaks  with  a sharp  snap,  is  almost  or  entirely  devoid  of  a 
pinkish  tinge  upon  the  fracture,  is  hard  and  brittle  between  the  teeth,  and  is  compara- 
tively odorless  and  tasteless,  is  to  be  rejected.  Bernbeck  (1881)  ascertained  that  the 


Ergot:  fruiting- 
stage. 


Ergotized  Rye. 


fruiting  head,  showing 
conceptacles. 

a few  drops  of 


ERGOTA. 


617 


Fig.  111. 


fixed  oil  obtained  with  petroleum  benzin  from  recent  ergot  has  a neutral  reaction,  while 
that  from  old  ergot  shows  a decided  acid  reaction  to  test-paper. 

Powdered  ergot  spoils  after  a short  time,  the  deterioration  being  induced  by  the 
fixed  oil  becoming  rancid  ; it  should  therefore  not  be  kept  on  hand  in  the  powdered  state 
except  for  a brief  period.  According  to  Mourrut  (1877),  the  powder  may  be  preserved 
unaltered  for  a long  time  by  the  addition  to  it  of  5 per  cent,  of  benzoin  ; but  the  evi- 
dent change  produced  in  the  fixed  oil,  and  probably  other  constituents,  of  the  powder 
has  caused  a number  of  suggestions  to  be  made  looking  toward  the  removal  of  the  oil. 
For  this  purpose  benzin  or  ether  has  been  mostly  recommended.  Ferrot  (1882)  recom- 
mends bruising  of  the  ergot,  and  drying  it  at  40°  C.  (104°  F.),  after  which  it  should  be 
powdered,  again  dried  at  80°  C.  (176°  F.),  then  exhausted  with  ether,  and  dried  at  35° 
C.  (95°  F.),  the  heat  being  gradually  raised  to  100°  C.  (212°  F.),  wThen  the  powder  is 
to  be  put  into  small  vials.  Benzin  of  a low  boiling-point  will  likewise  answer  for  this 
purpose.  While  there  can  be  no  doubt  that  powdered  ergot  deprived  of  fixed  oil  will 
not  deteriorate  readily,  investigations  are  still  needed  as  to  the  effect  of  the  different 
solvents  of  the  oil  upon  the  other  constituents,  and  to  the  length  of  time  for  which  such 
ergot  will  retain  its  activity ; Werner  (1881)  reported  its  virtues  unimpaired  after  more 
than  two  years. 

Constituents. — The  separation  of  the  constituents  of  ergot  offers  peculiar  difficul- 
ties. which  have  been  in  part  explained  by  the  researches  of  Buchheim  and  of  Dragen- 
dorff (1876);  the  former  regards  the  active  principle  as  a body  somewhat  resembling 
gelatin,  and  that  it  is  formed  from  the  gluten  of  rye-ovary,  and 
readily  changed  by  the  influence  of  chemical  agents.  The  latter, 
in  connection  with  Podwissotzky,  has  isolated  a number  of  uncrys- 
tallizable  compounds  possessing  more  or  less  activity,  the  most 
important  being  sclerotic  acid,  present  to  the  amount  of  4 or  4£ 
per  cent.,  and  scleromucin , of  which  2 to  3 per  cent,  are  obtained, 
and  which  is  insoluble  in  alcohol  of  40  per  cent,  by  volume.  The 
following  principles  are  less  active:  sclererythrm , the  red  coloring 
matter,  which  was  first  noticed  as  peculiar  by  Winckler,  is  soluble 
in  alkalies  with  a splendid  murexid  color,  also  in  alcohol,  ether, 
and  chloroform  ; it  is  present  in  minute  quantity  (y-i-^-  per  cent.); 
scleroiodin  (y1^  per  cent,  of  ergot)  after  drying  is  insoluble  in  water, 
alcohol,  and  ether,  and  dissolves  with  a violet  color  in  potassa  or 
strong  sulphuric  acid  ; sclerocrystallin  and  scleroxanthin  are  crys- 
tallizable,  but  without  medicinal  effect ; their  alcoholic  solutions 
acquire  with  ferric  chloride  a violet  and  afterward  blue-red  color, 
loids  (see  below)  are  likewise  regarded  as  nearly  inert. 

This  multiplicity  of  uncrystallizable  principles  seems  to  support  the  views  of  Buchheim, 
that  the  low  organization  of  ergot  prevents  the  formation  of  well-characterized  principles, 
and  that  those  which  are  formed  are  easily  altered ; it  may  also  explain  why  preparations 
possessing  some  activity  may  be  obtained  by  very  different  processes.  Wiggers’s  ergotin 
(1830)  was  prepared  from  ergot  deprived  of  fixed  oil  by  ether,  by  extracting  it  with  hot 
alcohol,  evaporating,  and  washing  the  extract  with  water ; the  yield  was  about  1 per  cent. 
It  resembles  cinchonic-red,  is  soluble  in  alcohol,  but  insoluble  in  water  and  ether,  and  is 
said  to  have  poisonous  properties.  Bonjean’s  ergotin  is  soluble  in  water  and  in  alcohol. 
(See  Extract.  Ergots.)  More  light  was  apparently  thrown  upon  the  active  principles 
of  ergot  by  the  researches  of  Wenzell  (1864),  who  proved  the  presence  of  two  alkaloids — 
ecboline  and  ergotine,  the  former  of  which  is  precipitated  by  corrosive  sublimate,  and  pro- 
duces decided  effects  upon  the  brain  and  contractions  of  the  muscles,  while  the  less  active 
ergotine  reduces  the  pulse  and  is  precipitated  by  phosphomolybdic  acid,  but  not  by  corro- 
sive sublimate.  Both  alkaloids  are  brownish,  uncrystallizable,  soluble  in  water,  and  have 
an  alkaline  reaction  and  bitterish  taste.  Ganser  (1870)  obtained  from  ergot  0.16  per  cent, 
of  ecboline  and  0.04  of  ergotine,  the  hydrochlorate  of  the  latter  crystallizing  in  needles. 
Manassewitz  (1867)  gives  the  composition  of  ergotine  as  C50H52N.2O3.  The  alkaloids, 
according  to  Wenzell  and  Ganser,  exist  in  combination  with  crgotic  acid , which  is  volatile 
and  yields  crystallizable  salts.  Dragendorff  (1876),  however,  regards  the  two  alkaloids 
as  identical  ; and  this  seems  to  have  been  proven  by  Blumberg  (1878),  who  found  that 
concentrated  solution  of  ergotine  is  precipitated  by  corrosive  sublimate  in  the  same  way 
as  ecboline,  and  that  this  precipitate  with  the  latter  alkaloid  is  not  entirely  insoluble  in 
water.  Moreover  Dragendorff  denies  that  ecboline,  which  is  entirely  free  from  the  com- 
pounds mentioned  above,  possesses  any  decided  physiological  action.  Another  alkaloid, 


Ergot. 


Wenzell’s  pure  alka- 


618 


ERGOTA. 


ergotinine , fluorescent  in  alcohol,  ether,  and  chloroform  solution  was  isolated  by  Tanret 
(1875)  from  the  fixed  oil  of  ergot  prepared  with  ether  by  agitating  it  with  acidulated 
water ; Dragendorff  could  not  obtain  it.  According  to  Yilliers  (1878),  it  has  the  form- 
ula C35H40N4O6.  Blumberg  obtained  from  fresh  ergot  .12  per  cent,  of  ergotinine,  which 
is  crystalline,  but  soon  becomes  resinous  ; sulphuric  acid  colors  it  red,  violet,  and  blue,  and 
with  Frohde’s  reagent  it  becomes  blue  and  blue-green  ; in  its  effects  upon  frogs  it  resem- 
bles picrosclerotine  (producing  decreased  sensibility,  paralysis  of  the  extremities,  and 
death  without  convulsions).  The  amorphous  alkaloid  was  obtained  together  with  fusco- 
scler otic-acid,  by  Dragendorff  and  Podwissotzky  in  purifying  sclererythrin.  Robert 
(1885)  isolated  another  alkaloid,  to  which  he  applied  the  name  of  cornutine , which  is 
claimed  to  be  an  active  constituent  of  ergot,  and  is  probably  present  to  some  extent  in 
ecboline  and  ergotine.  It  is  amorphous,  reddish,  by  trituration  flesh-colored,  entirely 
insoluble  in  ether  and  water,  but  soluble  in  alcohol,  and  constitutes  the  chief  active 
ingredient  of  various  alcoholic  extracts,  which  also  contain  sphacelic  add.  This,  also 
known  as  spliacelotoxin , is  insoluble  in  water,  but  soluble  in  alcohol  and  alkalies.  That 
water  distilled  from  ergot  particularly  in  presence  of  an  alkali,  possesses  an  alkaline 
reaction  was  observed  by  F.  L.  Winckler  (1826)  ; the  alkaline  principle  was  subsequent- 
ly (1853)  named  secaline , but  was  found  to  be  identical  with  trimethylamine  (gnethyla- 
vnine , according  to  Ludwig  and  Stahl).  According  to  Ganser,  it  does  not  pre-exist  in 
ergot,  but  appears  to  be  formed  through  decomposition  of  choline,  naturally  present. 

Ergot  contains  between  28  and  30  per  cent,  of  bland  yellowish,  non-drying  fixed  oil , 
from  which  warm  alcohol  removes  some  acrid  resin  and  cholesfrin  ; the  latter  was  obtained 
by  L.  Stahl  (1866),  and  its  character  proven  by  Ludwig  (1869).  Schoonbrodt  (1866) 
found  in  it  lactic  acid , which,  according  to  Buchheim,  often  renders  ergotine  strongly  acid. 
Formic  and  acetic  acid  appear  to  be  sometimes  present.  Starch  is  entirely  absent. 
The  ash  of  ergot  amounts  to  3 or  4 per  cent.,  and  consists  almost  exclusively  of  phos- 
phates. 

Detection  in  Flour  and  Bread. — This  depends  upon  dissolving  the  principles  giving  a 
color  reaction.  According  to  Hoffmann  (1878),  bread,  30  Gm.,  is  grated,  macerated  in 
ether,  40  Gm.,  containing  12  drops  of  diluted  sulphuric  acid;  after  24  hours  the  clear 
ethereal  solution  is  agitated  with  a concentrated  solution  of  sodium  bicarbonate,  the 
latter  acquiring  a reddish-violet  color,  due  to  sclererythrin.  The  percentage  of  ergot 
present  according  to  Poehl  (1862),  may  thus  be  determined  by  comparison  with  the 
results  from  mixtures  of  known  composition. 

Action  and  Uses. — In  doses  of  a drachm  or  two  the  first  action  of  ergot  is  to 
occasion  more  or  less  vomiting  and  purging,  but  its  more  characteristic  effects  are  head- 
ache, fulness  of  the  head,  vertigo,  drowsiness,  and  dilatation  of  the  pupils.  The  pulse 
falls  from  70  to  60,  or  even  less,  in  a minute,  and  this  reduction  may  continue  for  several 
days,  as  may  also  the  dilatation  of  the  pupils.  The  respiration  also  becomes  slower. 
Examples  have  occurred  of  what  may  be  regarded  as  acute  poisoning  by  ergot.  A woman 
of  good  constitution,  suffering  from  menorrhagia,  took  from  5 to  6 grams  (fgH— 1^-)  of 
fluid  extract  of  ergot.  Nine  hours  elapsed  before  the  effects  became  noticeable.  They 
comprised  a sense  of  constriction  in  the  pelvis,  extreme  dryness  of  the  mouth  and  throat, 
praecordial  anguish  and  gasping  for  breath,  constrictive  pain  in  the  chest  and  loins,  verti- 
go, confused  senses,  general  formication,  coldness  and  anaesthesia,  epileptiform  spasms, 
hurried  and  shallow  breathing,  a small  pulse,  beating  50,  and  a temperature  of  96.8°  F. 
These  alarming  symptoms  yielded  promptly  to  ether,  hypodermically  and  by  inhalation, 
chloral,  and  strong  coffee ; but  not  completely,  for  on  the  next  day  but  one  after  the 
attack  several  convulsive  paroxysms  occurred,  swallowing  was  difficult  and  painful,  and 
the  thoracic  and  abdominal  pains  persisted,  although  less  severely.  Even  on  the  follow- 
ing day  they  still  lingered  (Debierre,  Bull,  de  Therap .,  cvi.  52).  An  occasional  and 
peculiar  action  of  ergot  consists  in  its  producing  swelling  of  the  face  and  arms  ( Times 
and  Gaz .,  Oct.  1879,  p.  397).  After  several  drachm-doses  of  Squibb’s  fluid  extract  of 
ergot,  taken  by  a woman  for  uterine  haemorrhage,  the  patient’s  “ forearms  and  hands,  legs 
and  feet,  became  very  red  and  swollen,”  and  she  suffered  from  a sense  of  coldness  ( New 
York  Med.  Jour.,  June,  1884).  In  a more  recent  case  “one  small  teaspoonful”  of  the 
same  preparation  occasioned  similar  but  more  alarming  symptoms  {Med.  News,  li.  538). 
The  oil  extracted  from  ergot  by  macerating  it  with  ether  displays  even  greater  energy  in 
producing  the  same  symptoms,  and,  in  addition,  great  languor  and  lassitude,  lividity  of 
the  skin,  painful  rigidity  of  the  muscles,  and  sometimes  diuresis.  These  effects  may  con- 
tinue for  several  days.  The  oil  exerts  no  influence  upon  the  gravid  uterus,  but  the 


ERGOTA. 


619 


residual  ergot  from  which  it  had  been  extracted  seems  to  possess  the  ecbolic  power  of  the 
drug  unimpaired. 

Ergotism,  as  an  epidemic  disease,  has  been  known  from  ancient  times.  It  exhibits  the 
poisonous  effects  of  ergoted  rye  upon  a large  scale  and  in  various  phases,  which  probably 
depend  upon  the  amount  of  the  poison  ingested.  In  one  class  of  cases  the  cerebro-spinal 
nervous  system  is  mainly  involved,  which  is  indicated  by  neuralgic  pains,  formication  and 
numbness  of  the  extremities,  paroxysmal  flexures  and  extensions  of  the  limbs,  opisthot- 
onos, violent  delirium,  etc. — symptoms  which  are  succeeded  by  exhaustion,  and  sometimes 
by  strabismus  and  more  or  less  impairment  of  vision.  In  fact,  the  symptoms  are  very 
analogous  to  those  associated  with  lesions,  and  especially  sclerosis,  of  the  posterior  col- 
umns of  the  spinal  cord,  and  known  as  locomotor  ataxia.  Such  an  epidemic  occurred  in 
Germany  in  1879  (. Archives  gen.,  vii.  ser.  xx.  731).  Death  may  occur  in  coma  or  in 
convulsions.  In  the  other  class  of  cases  the  nervous  system  is  not  conspicuously 
deranged,  but  the  function  of  nutrition  is  impaired.  A sense  of  muscular  lassitude  and 
a dull  hue  of  the  skin  precede  graver  derangements,  shown  by  the  formation  of  gangren- 
ous areas  in  various  parts  of  the  body.  They  begin  most  frequently  in  the  thickness 
of  a limb,  and  afterward  form  on  the  superficial  parts,  extending  from  the  fingers  or  toes 
upward,  causing  these  parts  to  blacken,  shrivel,  and  harden — in  a word,  to  become 
mummified  or  affected  with  dry  gangrene.  The  dead  parts  may,  as  in  gangrene  from  other 
causes,  separate,  so  as  to  leave  a clean  wound  behind.  In  a majority  of  cases,  however, 
the  attack  is  fatal.  Gangrene  has  also  been  produced  by  the  continued  medicinal  use 
of  ergot.  Debove  reports  the  case  of  a woman  with  “chronic  nephritis”  who  took  about 
4 grains  a day  of  ergot  for  twenty  days,  and  suffered  gangrene  of  the  hands  ; and 
Dujardin-Beaumetz  relates  that  having,  in  a case  of  typhoid  fever,  prescribed  a daily  dose 
of  15  grains  of  ergot,  the  patient  had  sphacelus  of  the  right  hand,  but  recovered.  A 
similar  one  is  narrated  by  Boissaire  (Bull,  de  Therap.,  xcviii.  229,  373).  A case  of  con- 
stitutional poisoning  produced  by  the  administration  of  ergot  to  procure  several  successive 
abortions,  and  terminating  fatally  at  last,  is  reported  by  Pouchet  (Annales  d'Hyg.  pub., 
3me  ser.,  xvii.  253).  In  some  cases  of  locomotor  ataxia  the  symptoms  have  become  dis- 
tinctly aggravated  under  the  use  of  ergot  (Centralbl.  f.  Therapiie , i.  227). 

In  comparing  the  different  grades  of  the  operation  of  ergot  in  animals  and  in  man  it 
is  evident  that  the  action  in  both  cases  is  essentially  the  same,  and  that  it  is  manifested 
mainly  by  the  nervous  and  the  circulatory  functions.  The  former  exhibits  debility  of 
the  general  and  special  senses — dilated  pupils,  spinal  paralysis,  and  general  convulsions, 
usually  clonic  in  type  ; the  gravid  uterus  is  thrown  into  tonic  contractions  ; the  circulatory 
and  nutritive  functions  are  shown  to  be  deranged  by  the  slowness  of  the  pulse,  the  fall 
of  temperature,  the  cyanosis  of  vascular  parts,  the  discharge  of  dark  blood,  the  occur- 
rence of  cutaneous  eruptions,  the  shedding  of  the  hair,  feathers,  etc.,  and  the  gangrene 
of  various  parts,  but  in  man  of  the  feet  and  hands  especially. 

It  may  be  hence  inferred  that  the  primary  sensible  action  of  ergot  is  upon  the  nervous 
system,  since  the  lower  degrees  of  its  operation  interest  exclusively  the  functions  of  that 
system,  while  its  more  prolonged  action  gives  rise  to  radical  changes  in  tissue-nutrition. 
But  all  the  evidence  goes  to  show  that  the  modifications  of  nervous  action  are  consequent 
upon  a diminished  supply  of  arterial  blood  to  the  cerebro-spinal  and  the  ganglionic  nerve- 
centres.  This  diminished  supply  of  blood  is  due  partly  to  the  sedative  operation  of  the 
drug  upon  the  heart,  and  partly  to  the  contraction  of  the  capillaries,  which  is  demonstra- 
ble by  the  ophthalmoscope  in  the  case  of  the  human  eye,  and  is  also  visible  in  the  frog's 
foot  and  in  the  membranes  of  the  brain  and  spinal  membranes ; it  is  inferred  to  exist  in 
the  spinal  cord  from  the  successive  muscular  spasm  and  paralysis  which  affect  the  vol- 
untary and  also  the  intestinal  and  uterine  muscles,  and  the  loss  of  vitality,  with  gangrene, 
which  have  been  mentioned.  It  is,  however,  upon  the  non-striated  muscular  fibres,  and 
especially  upon  those  of  the  arteries  and  the  uterus,  that  ergot  displays  its  action  first 
and  most  conspicuously. 

Rules  have  long  been  in  use  for  the  administration  of  ergot  during  labor.  It  has  been 
recommended — 1,  in  lingering  labors  when  the  child’s  head  is  low,  the  parts  relaxed,  the 
pains  absent  or  feeble,  and  there  is  danger  in  delay  from  haemorrhage  or  other  alarming 
symptoms ; 2,  when  the  pains  are  suspended  and  convulsions  set  in,  venesection  being 
premised ; 3,  in  inevitable  abortion  ; 4,  when  the  placenta  is  retained  by  uterine  inertia  ; 
5,  in  post-partum  haemorrhage  under  like  circumstances.  Since  about  1880  the  use  of 
ergot  during  labor  has  been  restricted,  and  many  obstetricians  have  ceased  to  employ  it. 
It  is  claimed  that  in  all  cases  the  forceps  are  safer  and  more  manageable.  Some  would 
limit  its  use  to  past-partum  haemorrhage,  objecting  to  it  as  long  as  the  placenta  is 


620 


ERGOTA. 


retained  ; others  employ  it  to  prevent,  but  not  to  remedy,  this  accident ; some  maintain 
that  it  is  never  needed  during  labor,  and  is  more  dangerous  than  useful,  and  that  manual 
pressure,  the  hot  douche,  and  the  forceps  render  it  superfluous.  On  the  other  hand,  it  is 
held  to  be  indispensable  in  placenta  praevia,  and  almost  so  in  abortion  ; that  it  is  the  best 
safeguard  against  septicaemia  and  the  haemorrhage  that  follows  the  use  of  anaesthetics, 
and  hence  it  is  habitually  employed  by  many  after  delivery  of  the  placenta.  In  regard  to 
the  utility  of  the  latter,  differences  of  opinion  exist  even  after  a careful  clinical  study  of 
the  subject,  some  maintaining  that  ergot  hastens,  and  others  that  it  retards,  involution 
(compare  Blanc,  Bull,  de  Therap .,  cxv.  563  ; Lancet,  Feb.  11,  1888),  but  the  weight  of 
evidence  appears  to  be  upon  the  side  of  the  former  opinion.  The  influence  of  ergot  upon 
the  uterus  in  labor  is  unlike  that  of  the  natural  forces : they  are  intermittent  and  rhyth- 
mical ; it  is  constant  and  steady,  and,  as  it  were,  tetanic,  and  therefore  tends  to  destroy 
the  child  by  interrupting  the  placental  blood-supply  and  impeding  the  foetal  circulation. 
After  labors  with  ergot  the  uterus  is  much  larger  and  harder  than  natural,  and  remains 
so  for  several  days.  Ergot  has  been  accused  of  causing  rupture  of  the  uterus,  but  the 
evidence  is  incomplete  when  the  drug  has  been  administered  according  to  settled  rules. 
Disease  of  the  uterus,  deformity  of  the  pelvis  or  spine,  and  similar  conditions  forbid  its 
use.  No  doubt  laceration  of  the  perineum  and  of  the  os  uteri  and  hour-glass  contraction 
may  sometimes  be  attributed  to  its  imprudent  exhibition,  as  well  as  prolapse  of  the  uterus 
or  of  the  rectum.  Detention  of  the  placenta  is  even  more  apt  to  occur.  In  some  cases 
also,  perhaps  from  an  overdose  of  ergot,  it  has  appeared  to  cause  delirium  or  coma,  livid- 
ity  of  the  face,  muscular  rigidity,  etc.  There  is  no  doubt  that  ergot  is  dangerous  to  the 
child  in  proportion  to  the  duration  of  its  action,  and  that  therefore  it  should  not  be 
administered  until  labor  is  near  its  termination.  Fatal  effects  of  the  drug  may  occur  even 
when  it  has  not  occasioned  contraction  of  the  uterus.  Children  are  then  born  dead,  with 
cyanosed  skin  and  distorted  limbs,  and  the  discoloration  has  followed  the  use  of  the  oil  of 
ergot,  which  does  not  stimulate  the  uterine  contractions.  It  follows  from  these  facts 
that  the  rules  above  are  justified,  and  that  another  might  be  added  to  them — viz.  never 
to  give  ergot  to  expedite  labor  in  larger  doses  than  are  necessary  to  produce  that  effect. 
In  premature  labor  the  drug  appears  to  be  more  hostile  to  the  child’s  life  than  at  term, 
but  is  decidedly  profitable  to  the  mother.  When  the  uterus  is  not  in  action,  ergot  does 
not  readily  excite  its  contraction  ; hence  it  seldom  occasions  abortion  as  a direct  effect. 
Indeed,  in  certain  cases  when  this  occurrence  is  imminent  from  accidental  uterine  haem- 
orrhage, small  and  repeated  doses  of  ergot  have  appeared  to  prevent  it.  It  is  stated  that 
in  the  Dublin  Lying-in  Hospital  it  is  a rule  to  administer  the  infusion  of  ergot  immedi- 
ately after  delivery  in  all  cases,  and  to  multiparae  three  times  a day  for  two  days.  It  is 
also  given  in  all  cases  where  there  is  any  tendency  to  flowing,  to  a relaxed  condition  of 
the  uterine  walls,  or  to  tenderness  over  the  uterine  region.  The  results,  it  is  said,  are  the 
prevention  of  a tendency  to  subinvolution  and  the  disappearance  of  threatening  inflam- 
matory symptoms. 

Ergot  has  long  been  known  as  a remedy  for  uterine  haemorrhage  after  labor,  as  well  as 
for  menorrhagia  and  bleeding  from  cancer  and  other  diseases  of  the  uterus.  In  menor- 
rhagia it  seems  to  be  most  efficient  when  the  uterus  is  in  a flaccid  condition,  as  shown, 
amongst  other  ways,  by  the  persistence  of  uterine  leucorrhoea  between  the  menstrual 
periods.  It  doubtless  in  all  thesa.  cases  constringes  the  uterine  tissue,  but  that  it  acts 
directly  upon  the  blood-vessels  is  proved  by  its  efficacy  in  other  forms  of  haemorrhage — 
gastric , pulmonary,  7iasa.l,  intestinal,  hsemorrhoidal,  urethral,  vesical , and  renal — and  also  in 
purpura  hsemorrhagica.  In  all  of  these  cases  it  probably  becomes  efficient  through  its 
power  of  contracting  the  muscular  coat  of  the  small  arteries  of  the  bleeding  part.  Tt 
may  be  employed  in  substance  or  as  a fluid  extract  by  the  mouth,  or  with  more  prompt 
effect  by  the  hypodermic  injection  of  ergotin.  Full  doses  should  be  given.  For  hypo- 
dermic injection  a solution  may  be  prepared  with  Gm.  2 (30  grains)  of  ergotin,  Gm.  50 
(13  drachms)  of  water,  and  an  equal  proportion  of  glycerin.  Gm.  4 (1  fluidrachm),  con- 
taining about  Gm.  0.06  (1  grain)  of  ergotin,  may  be  used  hypodermically.  It  does  not 
cause  local  irritation,  and  its  effect  upon  the  haemorrhage  is  very  prompt.  Yvon’s  prepa- 
ration is  said  to  be  the  best. 

The  power  of  ergot  to  contract  the  uterus  may  be  used  to  expel  retained  placenta s, 
mural  fibroid  tumors,  polypi,  hydatids,  etc.  In  regard  to  the  advantages  of  ergot  in  the 
treatment  of  uterine  fibroids  the  reports  are  very  conflicting,  but  they  are  fairly  repre- 
sented in  the  conclusions  arrived  at  by  Herman  ( Times  and  Gaz.,  Aug.  1879,  p.  205): 
1.  “ Ergot  will  often  produce  the  diminution  in  size,  and  sometimes  even  complete  ab- 
sorption, of  fibroid  tumors  of  the  uterus,  and  will,  in  the  majority  of  cases,  relieve  their 


ERG  OTA. 


621 


symptoms.  2.  These  effects  will  often  follow  the  administration  of  the  drug  by  the 
mouth,  but  will  more  certainly  be  produced  by  its  hypodermic  injection  in  the  neighbor- 
hood of  the  tumor.”  Even  when  the  medicine  has  little  or  no  appreciable  effect  upon 
the  size  of  the  uterus,  it  almost  always  checks  the  haemorrhage  which  is  a common  and 
serious  symptom  of  fibroid  tumors  of  that  organ.  In  uterine  haemorrhage  due  to  other 
causes,  such  as  chronic  metritis,  the  menopause,  cancer,  subinvolution,  parturition,  abor- 
tion, etc.,  ergot,  but  more  particularly  ergotin  hypodermically,  has  proved  more  com- 
pletely and  promptly  successful  than  any  other  medicine.  Cornutin  is  said  to  be  efficient 
in  such  cases  when  administered  hypodermically  in  doses  of  from  \ to  \ grain  ( Med . 
News,  Iv.  486).  Ergot  is  also  useful  in  treating  chronic  endometritis.  This  action, 
which  under  certain  circumstances  may  be  called  tonic,  has  been  found  efficient  in  the 
treatment  of  uterine  leucorrhoea , and  even  of  amenorrhcea  due  to  an  enfeebled  and  an- 
aemic state.  It  is  stated  that  ergot  moderates  the  excessive  secretion  of  milk , and  it  has 
been  used  to  prevent  mammary  abscesses  and  the  engorgement  of  the  breasts  in  weaning. 
It  is  one  of  the  most  efficient  remedies  in  diabetes  insipidus , in  the  treatment  of  which 
it  was  first  used  by  Dr.  J.  M.  DaCosta  ( Phila . Med.  Times,  July,  1875,  p.  636),  and 
afterward  by  Murrell,  Rendu,  and  others  in  Europe  (Garens,  These , 1879;  Lancet, 
April,  1882 ; Bucquoy,  Societe  de  Therap.,  Avr.  1888)  ; in  1882-83,.  DaCosta  reported 
seven  additional  cases,  in  all  of  which,  save  one,  a cure  was  wrought  ( Med.  News , xl.  5 ; 
xlii.  72),  since  when  he  has  cured  many  more  {ibid.,  lv.  347)  ; and  three  other  similar 
cases  occurred  to  Lacy  {Med.  News,  xlii.  9).  The  medicine  sometimes  fails  entirely. 
(Compare  Practitioner,  xxix.  209  ; xxx.  136.)  The  more  distinctly  the  affection  is  con- 
nected with  nervous  disorder,  the  greater  is  the  benefit  derived  from  ergot.  In  most 
cases  the  cure  is  complete  and  permanent.  It  is  probably  most  efficient  when  associated 
with  belladonna,  and  should  be  given  in  the  form  of  the  fluid  extract  in  the  dose  of 
Gm.  4 (a  fluidrachm)  three  times  a day,  gradually  increased  to  double  that  quantity. 
It  is  remarkable  that  in  several  cases  the  diminution  of  the  urine  was  attended  with 
severe  pains  in  the  head.  In  one  case  (Garens)  the  polyuria  was  associated  with  “ inter- 
stitial nephritis,”  and  while  using  the  medicine  the  patient  ceased  to  urinate,  and  died 
of  apoplexy.  Ergot  has  long  been  used  with  advantage  in  the  treatment  of  paralysis 
of  the  bladder  and  in  paraplegia.  Theoretically,  it  is  most  appropriate  to  cases  in  which 
hyperaemia  of  the  spinal  cord  exists,  but  it  would  be  very  difficult,  if  not  impossible,  to 
account  for  its  efficacy  in  all  successful  cases  upon  this  ground,  particularly  since  it 
appears  to  have  been  curative  in  reflex  as  well  as  in  congestive  paraplegia.  It  should 
be  given  in  full  doses  to  ensure  its  beneficial  effects.  Incontinence  of  urine , depending 
either  upon  paralysis  or  irritability  of  the  bladder  or  upon  enlarged  prostate,  is  palliated 
or  cured  by  it,  according  to  the  nature  of  the  primary  cause.  It  has  been  found  efficient 
particularly  in  those  cases  of  retention  or  incontinence  of  urine  which  are  so  apt  to  occur 
in  the  typhoid  state  of  febrile  diseases.  Luton  {Bull,  de  T Acad,  de  Med.,  xxvi.  803) 
states  that  in  dysentery  he  found  that  powdered  ergot,  or  ergotin,  in  the  dose  of  8 grains 
arrested  the  course  of  the  disease  ; but  Dewar  ( Practitioner , xxviii.  361)  states  that  the 
medicine  always  increased  the  diarrhoea  for  which  it  was  given.  Its  power  of  contract- 
ing the  blood-vessels  has  been  exemplified  in  cases  of  enlarged  spleen  of  malarial  origin, 
and  even  when  it  occurred  as  a symptom  of  leucocythemia.  In  simple  goitre , or  vas- 
cular enlargement  of  the  thyroid  gland,  the  hypodermic  injection  of  ergotin  has  been 
followed  in  many  cases  by  a complete  cure.  Suppositories  containing  ergotin  are  re- 
ported to  have  cured  four  out  of  five  cases  of  haemorrhoids , although  the  first  effect  of 
the  application  was  to  cause  pain  for  an  hour  or  more  (Lansing).  Hypodermic  injections 
of  ergotin  have  been  used  by  Vidal,  Fernand,  and  others  to  prevent  prolapsus  of  the 
rectum,  both  when  attended  with  haemorrhoids  and  when  free  from  that  complication. 
The  injections  were  sometimes  made  into  the  haemorrhoidal  tumors,  and  sometimes  into 
the  skin  around  the  anus.  A solution  of  ergotin  (1 : 5)  was  employed,  of  which  from  15 
to  20  drops  were  used  for  each  injection  {Bull,  et  Memoires  de  la  Soc.  de  Therap.,  1881, 
p.  116).  A convenient  solution  may  be  made  with  1 part  of  ergotin  to  3 parts  each  of 
water  and  glycerin.  Suppositories  containing  ergotin  have  been  used  in  the  cases  just 
referred  to — with  advantage,  according  to  some,  but  others  declare  that  they  are  tole- 
rated with  difficulty.  They  may  contain  1 part  of  ergotin  to  10  of  cocoa-butter  and  a 
sufficient  proportion  of  wax.  It  is  alleged  that  constipation  following  an  abuse  of  purga- 
tives, and  due  to  atony  of  the  intestine,  may  be  cured  by  ergot.  The  hypodermic 
method  has  been  used  with  advantage  in  cases  of  ingravescent  apoplexy  and  mania  a 
potn,  and  might  probably  be  applied  in  the  same  way  in  heat-apoplexy  or  sunstroke,  for 
which  it  has  been  administered  by  the  mouth  in  India.  Several  years  ago  numerous 


622 


ERG  OTA. 


cases  of  ccrebro-spinal  meningitis  were  published  in  which  the  treatment  consisted  mainly 
of  a dose  every  three  hours  of  1 grain  of  ergotin  and  y1^  grain  of  extract  of  belladonna. 
The  results  were  regarded  by  the  reporter  as  exceptionably  favorable  (W.  Read).  We 
have  not  met  with  any  reports  which  tend  either  to  confirm  or  invalidate  this  conclusion. 
A case  of  supposed  tubercular  meningitis  cured  by  ergot  has  been  reported  (Gibney). 
It  is  likewise  credited  with  the  cure  of  certain  cases  of  typhoid  fever  in  which  active 
cerebral  or  cerebro-spinal  symptoms  existed  (Dubone),  but  the  alleged  results  have  not 
been  confirmed ; they  are  contrary  to  the  history  of  the  disease,  and  proof  exists  that  the 
medicine  has  occasioned  gangrene  and  death  when  used  in  typhoid  fever.  Chevallereau 
claims  that  the  hypodermic  injection  of  ergotin  is  capable  of  arresting  the  course  of 
acute  articular  rheumatism  (. Practitioner , xxvi.  289).  According  to  J.  G.  Rogers,  it  is 
remarkably  potent  in  repressing  the  excitement  of  insanity  depending  upon  “ cerebral 
plethora,  whether  active  or  passive  ” {Med.  Record , xx.  503),  but,  according  to  Nebel, 
Luton,  Adam,  and  others,  the  medicine  is  most  appropriate  in  melancholia.  Its  dangers,  due 
to  its  interference  with  nutrition,  should  condemn  it  in  such  cases.  There  is  no  proof  of 
its  efficacy  in  epilepsy.  In  nervous  headache , or  migraine,  there  seems  to  be  good  reason  for 
believing  it  to  be  useful  when  continued  for  some  time  in  doses  of  6 grains  a day,  grad- 
ually increased  to  15  grains  (Schumacher).  It  is  claimed  that  dilatation  of  the  heart 
from  impaired  nutrition  and  independent  of  valvular  disease  is  greatly  benefited  by  this 
medicine.  Used  hypodermically  in  the  neighborhood  of  aneurismal  tumors,  ergotin  is 
credited  with  having  a share  in  their  cure,  along  with  digitalis,  electro-puncture,  etc. 
{Bull,  de  Therap , cii.  505).  It  has  also  been  used  in  whooping  cough  with  apparent 
success.  Dewar  declares  that  in  scores  of  cases  he  proved  its  power  to  cut  short  the 
disease  ( Practitioner , xxviii.  357),  and  Allan  attributes  to  it  a power  of  controlling  other 
coughs,  even  that  of  phthisis  {ibid.,  xxvi.  291).  It  is  said  to  relieve  impaired  vision 
arising  from  congestion  of  the  retina  and  due  to  excessive  strain  of  the  eye  in  examining 
minute  objects.  A solution  of  1 part  of  ergotin  in  15  or  20  of  glycerin  and  water  has 
been  used  as  a collyrium  in  numerous  cases  of  conjunctivitis , keratitis , and  iritis , and  it 
is  advised  that  it  be  applied  every  two  or  three  hours,  and  that  in  severe  cases  a rag 
wetted  with  the  solution  should  be  kept  almost  constantly  upon  the  affected  eye  (Planat; 
Dabney).  The  action  of  ergot  upon  the  capillary  blood-vessels  has  been  tested  in  several 
chronic  diseases  of  the  skin , with  alleged  advantage,  by  Heitzmann  and  by  D’Enslow 
{Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  Sept.  1882,  p.  253 ; Philo.  Med.  Times,  xii.  873),  and 
especially  in  acne  rosacea,  erythema,  urticaria,  and  prurigo — which  are  notoriously  rebel- 
lious to  treatment.  It  seems  useless  in  eczema  and  psoriasis,  perhaps  because  in  those 
affections  an  exudation  exists.  Its  utility  in  purpura  hsemorrhagica  has  already  been 
noticed.  According  to  Bulkley  {Trans.  Med.  Soc.  of  State  of  N.  Y,  1876,  p.  176),  it 
causes  “ an  almost,  if  not  quite,  immediate  cessation  of  cutaneous  and  other  haemor- 
rhages.” He  advises  1 or  2 grains  of  ergotin  or  10  or  15  minims  of  the  fluid  extract 
hypodermically  once  or  twice  a day,  but  says  that  these  doses  may  be  more  than  doubled 
without  harm.  Colliquative  sweats  are  effectually  controlled  in  many  instances  by  15  or 
20  grains  of  powdered  ergot  or  by  a proportionate  dose  of  ergotin  administered  hypoder- 
mically (Huchard).  It  is  alleged  by  Schilling  that  ergot  prevents  the  tinnitus  and  deaf- 
ness occasioned  by  quinine  or  b}7  salicylic  acid,  and  also  the  amblyopia  which  the  former 
sometimes  induces  {Med.  News,  xliii.  123).  It  would  be  singular  if  ergot,  which  is  be- 
lieved to  contract  the  capillaries,  were  to  relieve  a symptom  supposed  to  be  induced  by 
that  very  mechanism. 

Ergot  is  conveniently  administered  by  making  an  infusion  of  Gm.  8 (^ij)  of  the  drug, 
coarsely  powdered,  in  about  half  a pint  of  hot  water,  which  should  be  given  in  table- 
spoonful doses  every  ten  or  fifteen  minutes  if  contraction  of  the  distended  uterus  is  desired, 
or  if  haemorrhage  from  any  part  is  to  be  checked.  The  powder  may  be  given  in  doses  of 
from  Gm.  0.30-1.30  (gr.  v-xx)  at  similar  intervals.  Bonjean’s  or  Yvon’s  ergotin  may 
be  prescribed  in  doses  of  from  Gm.  0.06-0.20  (gr.  j-iij)  under  like  circumstances.  Hy- 
podermically, it  may  be  administered  in  warm  water,  slightly  salted,  with  the  aid  of  gly- 
cerin, in  doses  of  from  y1^  to  of  those  given  by  the  mouth.  Ergotin  is  usually  taken 
in  capsules.  It  may  be  used  in  suppositories  containing  from  6 to  15  grains.  Tanret’s 
ergotinine  is  said  to  be  most  suitable  for  hypodermic  administration  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.001 

(gr.  -fa)  or  less- 


ERIODICTYON.—ER  YNGIUM. 


623 


ERIODICT Y ON.  TJ.  Mountain-Balm. 

Consumptive's  weed , Bear's  weed , E. 

The  leaves  of  E.  glutinosum,  Bentham , s.  Wigandia  californica,  Hooker  et  Arnott. 

Nat.  Ord. — Hydrophyllaceae. 

Origin. — An  evergreen  shrub  1 to  1.5  M.  (3  to  5 feet)  high,  growing  thriftily  among 
the  rocks  on  the  mountain-ranges  of  Central  California  southward  to  Northern  Mexico. 
It  has  axillary  and  terminal  racemose  clusters  of  showy  purplish -blue  flowers,  with  a 

Fig.  112. 


Eriodictyon-leaves,  natural  size : lower  and  upper  surface. 

funnel-shaped  corolla  and  five  stamens,  and  ovoid,  semi-transparent  capsules  supported  by 
the  persistent  five-lobed  calyx  and  containing  about  twenty  seeds.  The  leaves  are 
employed. 

Description. — The  leaves  are  alternate,  petiolate,  5 to  10  Cm.  (2  or  4 inches)  long 
oblong-lanceolate,  sinuately  toothed  or  nearly  entire,  with  the  upper  surface  smooth, 
green,  and  often  varnished  with  a brownish  resinous  exudation,  and  the  lower  surface 
minutely  white-tomentose,  and  delicately  reticulated  by  a network  of  veins.  After  bruis- 
ing the  leaves  their  balsamic  odor  becomes  more  apparent ; their  taste  is  aromatic,  bal- 
samic, and  free  from  bitterness. 

Constituents. — The  leaves  evidently  contain  volatile  oil  and  resin.  According  to 
H.  S.  Wellcome  (1886),  the  latter  is  transparent,  amber-colored,  balsamic  in  odor  and 
taste,  amounts  to  from  20  to  30  per  cent,  of  the  leaves,  and  consists  of  several  distinct 
resins.  The  same  resin  also  covers  the  branches.  Thai  (1883)  showed  the  presence  of 
ericolin.  (See  Ledum.)  Quirini  (1888)  isolated  eriodictyonic  acid , C14H1805,  which  is 
present  to  the.amount  of  2.4  per  cent.  It  forms  delicate  yellow  plates  melting  at  86-88° 
C.,  is  very  hygroscopic,  neutral  in  reaction,  and  possesses  a sweet-sour  taste.  Lead 
acetate,  copper  sulphate,  mercuric  chloride,  gelatin,  or  tannin  have  no  effect ; ferric 
chloride,  however,  precipitates  it  reddish-black,  the  precipitate  being  soluble  in  ammonia. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — By  triturating  the  resin  with  powdered  French  chalk, 
and  following  the  official  process  for  syrup  of  tolu,  a syrup  is  obtained  having  a delicious 
fruity  aroma  and  taste,  closely  resembling  those  of  the  pineapple,  due,  probably,  to  the 
presence  of  butyric  ether  in  the  resin. 

Action  and  Uses. — Although  supposed  at  first  to  possess  medicinal  value,  it 
speedily  ceased  to  attract  attention.  It  is  said  that  chewing  the  leaf  masks  the  bitter- 
ness of  quinine.  It  was  stated  to  be  very  serviceable  in  atonic  bronchitis , but  worse 
than  useless  in  the  inflammatory  form  of  the  disease ; but  other  accounts  present  the 
exact  converse  of  this  opinion,  and  a bold  ignorance  has  pronounced  it  to  be  a “ specific 
for  chronic  lung  disease  and  a certain  cure  for  consumption.”  Its  real  value  as  a medi- 
cine is  not  determined.  A syrup  and  an  elixir  of  it  have  been  used  to  mask  the  bitter- 
ness of  quinine. 


ERYNGIUM.— Eryngo. 

Button  snakerooi,  Corn  snakeroot,  Rattlesnake' s-master , E. 

The  rhyzome  of  Eryngium  yuccaefolium,  Michaux , s.  Er.  aquaticum,  Linn6. 

Nat.  Ord. — Umbelliferae,  Orthospermae. 

Origin. — The  plant  grows  in  pine-barrens  and  prairies  from  New  Jersey  westward  to 
Wisconsin  and  southward  to  South  Carolina.  It  has  grass-like,  nerved  and  bristly-fringed 
leaves,  the  radical  leaves  being  30  to  45  Cm.  (12  to  18  inches)  long,  those  of  the  stem 


624 


ER  YTHR  OPHL  CE  UM. 


much  shorter ; the  white  flowers  are  in  dense  ovate  heads,  which  are  larger  than  the 
nearly-entire  leaflets  of  the  involucre.  It  blooms  in  July  and  August. 

Description. — Button  snakeroot  consists  of  a short  root-stock  6 to  12  Mm.  (i  to  I 
inch)  long,  with  numerous  short  branches,  terminating  with  a more  or  less  deeply  cup- 
shaped scar.  A transverse  section  exhibits  a large  whitish  central  pith  and  several  short 
wood-wedges,  separated  from  the  bark  by  a brown  cambium-line.  Below,  the  root-stalk 
is  divided  into  a large  number  of  thin  nearly  simple  rootlets  from  5 to  8 Cm.  (2  to  3 
inches)  long,  and  containing  a rather  thick  and  soft  whitish  meditullium.  Button  snake- 
root  has  a dark -brown  color  externally,  a slight  but  rather  heavy  aromatic  odor,  and  a 
sweetish  and  somewhat  acrid  and  aromatic  taste,  recalling  that  of  parsnip,  which  is  prob- 
ably due  to  a volatile  oil. 

Allied  Plants. — Eryngium  virginianum,  Lamarck , has  linear-lanceolate  leaves  and  a spiny- 
toothed  involucre  longer  than  the  heads  of  bluish  flowers.  It  is  biennial,  and  grows  in  swampy 
localities  in  the  vicinity  of  the  coast  from  New  Jersey  southward. 

Er.  campestre,  Linne. — Eryngo,  E. ; Chardon-Roland,  Penicaut,  Fr. ; Mannstreu,  Brach- 
distel,  G. — A European  perennial.  Its  root  is  cylindrical,  about  60  Cm.  (2  feet)  long  and  25  Mm. 
(1  inch)  thick,  with  several  conical  heads,  brown  externally,  and  with  a thick  internally  white 
bark,  covering  the  porous  yellowish  wood. 

Action  and  Uses. — Button  snakeroot  has  an  acrid  and  aromatic  taste,  and  is 
reputed  to  be  diaphoretic  and  expectorant,  and  emetic  in  large  doses.  In  Europe  E. 
maritimum  was  once  celebrated  for  its  diuretic  virtues,  as  was  also  E.  campestre.  Both 
species  continue  to  be  used  in  the  treatment  of  drops y,  gravel , and  jaundice.  Eryngium 
may  be  given  in  a decoction  made  with  Gm.  16  (§ss)  of  the  root  to  a pint  of  water,  and 
reduced  by  boiling  to  half  a pint,  and  given  in  1-ounce  doses. 

ERYTHROPHLCEUM.— Sassy-Bark. 

Mancona-bark , Saucy-bark,  E.  ; Ecorce  deman^one,  Fr.  ; Mancona-Rinde , G. 

The  bark  of  Erythrophloeum  guineense,  Don  (E.  judiciale,  Procter ),  s.  Fillaca  suave- 
olens,  Guillemin  et  Perrottet. 

Nat.  Ord. — Leguminosae,  Mimoseae. 

Origin. — Sassy-bark  comes  from  a large  tree  with  bipinnate  coriaceous  leaves,  termi- 
nal compound  spicate  racemes  of  decandrous  flowers,  and  flat  legumes  with  three  or  four 
lenticular  seeds.  The  tree  grows  in  Central  and  Western  Africa,  and  the  bark  is  used  by 
the  natives  as  an  ordeal-  and  arrow-poison. 

Description. — The  bark  is  seen  in  flat  or  curved  pieces,  of  irregular  size,  about  6 
Mm.  (1  inch)  thick,  covered  externally  with  an  uneven  warty  and  fissured  corky  layer, 
or  deprived  of  the  same,  of  a dull  red-brown  color.  It  is  hard,  brittle,  of  a fibrous  tex- 
ture, internally  with  pale  yellowish-brown  spots,  inodorous,  of  an  astringent,  somewhat 
bitter  and  acrid  taste,  and  when  powdered  excites  violent  sneezing. 

Constituents. — Sassy-bark  contains  tannin  and  a red  derivative  of  it,  and  yields  its 
active  principle  to  water  and  alcohol  (Procter,  1852).  Gallois  and  Hardy  (1876)  isolated 
the  poisonous  constituents  by  treating  the  aqueous  extract  of  the  alcoholic  extract  of  the 
bark  with  an  alkali,  and  exhausting  the  mixture  with  acetic  ether.  This  alkaloid,  ery- 
throphleine, is  colorless,  crystalline,  soluble  in  water,  alcohol,  amylic  alcohol,  and  acetic 
ether,  but  nearly  or  entirely  insoluble  in  ether,  chloroform,  and  benzene.  With  sulphuric 
acid  and  potassium  permanganate  a violet  coloration  is  obtained,  less  intense  than  the  one 
produced  by  strychnine,  and  soon  changing  to  dirty  brown.  The  solutions  of  its  salts 
are  precipitated  by  the  usual  reagents  for  alkaloids,  including  potassium  dichromate 
which  yields  a yellowish  precipitate.  Harnack  and  Zabrocki  (1882)  ascertained  that 
when  boiled  with  acids  or  alkalies  erythrophleine  yields  erythrophleic  acid , which  is  free 
from  nitrogen  and  manconine , which  is  a volatile  base  resembling  pyridine  and  nicotine. 

Erythrophloeum  couminga  or  ( koumanga ) is  also  a large  tree,  all  parts  ot  which  are 
poisonous,  containing  an  alkaloid  which  is  closely  related  to  erythrophleine,  if  not  iden- 
tical with  it. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  accounts  which  were  long  received  of  the  effects  pro- 
duced by  the  sassy  ordeal  agree  in  certain  points,  but  not  in  others.  In  most  of  them 
the  production  of  vomiting  appears  to  be  the  capital  phenomenon,  for  upon  its  occur- 
rence or  non-occurrence  the  person  subjected  to  its  ordeal  was  held  to  be  innocent  or 
guilty.  According  to  Drs.  Brunton  and  Pye,  the  vomiting  produced  by  sassy  occurs 
whether  it  be  given  internally  or  hypodermically,  but  purging  only  in  the  former  case. 
The  paralysis  it  causes  they  explain  as  being  due  not  to  a direct  action  upon  the  mus- 


ESSEN  TIJE.  -E  UCAL  YPTOL. 


625 


cles  or  the  motor  nerves,  or  the  spinal  cord  itself,  but  to  a contraction  of  the  blood-ves- 
sels, which  lessens  the  supply  of  blood  to  these  parts. 

When,  in  1859,  the  essay  of  Mitchell  and  Hammond  was  published,  it  contained  an 
appendix  describing  the  medicinal  applications  of  sassy.  It  was  said  to  be  astringent,  nar- 
cotic, acrid,  cholagogue,  and  diaphoretic,  and  to  have  been  used  successfully  in  the  treatment 
of  periodical  fevers , colic , diarrhoea , and  dysentery.  A summary  of  cases  of  the  last- 
named  disease  treated  by  the  medicine  appears  to  demonstrate  its  possession  of  marked 
curative  virtues.  It  was  given  in  tincture  and  also  in  extract.  While  these  clinical 
reports  point  in  one  direction,  physiological  reasons  are  now  given  for  using  the  med- 
icine in  cardiac  dropsy , especially  when  it  depends  on  mitral  obstruction,  and  in  cases 
of  haemorrhage  due  to  flaccidity  of  the  capillaries.  See  states  that  he  used  a tincture 
of  erythrophloeum  in  cardiac  asthma  with  the  effect  of  rendering  “ the  movements  slower 
and  fuller.”  But  “the  arhythmia  did  not  disappear,  the  pulse  was  not  slowed,  the  val- 
vular murmurs  were  not  modified,  and  there  was  no  diuresis.  As  a cardiac  remedy  it  pre- 
sents no  advantage.”  Hermann  ( Centralhl . f Ther.,  vi.  598)  found  that  in  various 
organic  affections  of  the  heart  its  power  of  slowing  the  pulse  and  increasing  the  urine 
was  neither  uniform  nor  lasting.  Similar  observations  were  made  by  Dujardin-Beau- 
metz  (Bull,  de  Therap.,  cvii.  107),  and  by  Hochhaus  and  others  ( Therap . Gaz.,  xii. 
207).  As  a substitute  for  cocaine  in  diseases  of  the  eye  it  has  proved  inefficient  as  an 
anaesthetic,  as  well  as  painful  and  liable  to  cause  inflammation  of  the  conjunctiva  and 
cloudiness,  and  even  exfoliation,  of  the  cornea  (Gentralbl.  f.  Ther .,  vi.  235). 


E S SENTLZE . — Essences. 

Alcooles  concentres , Fr. ; Essenzen , Gf. 

Two  preparations  of  this  class  have  been  admitted  into  the  British  Pharmacopoeia. 
They  are  simply  solutions  of  volatile  oils  in  alcohol,  and  are  therefore  identical  with, 
except  that  they  contain  a much  larger  amount  of  volatile  oil  than,  the  officinal  spirits. 
The  volatile  oils  are  in  France  usually  termed  essences , while  the  spirits  containing  vola- 
tile  oils,  but  prepared  by  distillation,  are  called  alcoolats , and  those  made  by  simple  solu 
tion  of  volatile  and  non-volatile  substances  are  known  as  alcooles.  The  Essenzen , popu- 
larly so  called  in  Germany,  are  often  strong  tinctures  or  strong  solutions  of  volatile  oils, 
or  mixtures  of  the  two. 

ESSENTIA  ANISI,  Br. — Essence  of  Anise. 

Alcoole  d’anis  concentre , Fr. ; Anisessenz , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Oil  of  Anise  1 fluidounce ; Rectified  Spirit  4 fluidounces. 
Mix. — Br. 

Action  and  Uses. — (For  medical  uses  see  Spiritus  Anisi.) 

ESSENTIA  MENTH^E  PIPERIT7E,  Hr*. — Essence  of  Peppermint. 

Alcoole  de  menthe  poivree  concentre , Fr. ; Pfefferminz-Essenz.  Gr. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Oil  of  Peppermint  1 fluidounce ; Rectified  Spirit  4 fluid- 
ounces.  Mix. — Br. 

Action  and  Uses. — (For  medical  uses  see  Spiritus  Mentha  Piperita.) 

EUOAL YPTOL,  77.  Eucal yptol. 

Cajnputol , Cineol , E.,  G.,  Fr. 

Formula  C10H18O.  Molecular  weight  153.66. 

A neutral  body  obtained  from  the  volatile  oil  of  Eucalyptus  globulus,  Labillardiere , 
and  of  some  other  species  of  Eucalyptus. 

Eat.  Ord. — Myrtaceae. 

Origin. — The  Pharmacopoeia  directs  the  eucalyptol  to  be  obtained  from  the  oil  of 
various  species  of  Eucalyptus,  and  does  not  mention  that  it  could  be  prepared  from 
other  oils,  especially  as  one  consists  almost  entirely  of  eucalyptol.  This  oil  is  that  of 


EUCALYPTUS. 


626 

santonica,  Artemisia  pauciflora,  Weber;  it  is  also  a constituent  of  the  oils  of  rosemary 
and  cajeput. 

Preparation. — Eucalyptol  is  prepared  from  oil  of  eucalyptus  by  distillation  and 
placing  the  portion  going  over  between  150°  and  175°  C..(302°  and  347°  F.)  in  a 
freezing  mixture,  when  it  crystallizes  in  long,  colorless  needles.  This  is  repeated  a 
number  of  times,  always  draining  the  crystals  to  get  rid  of  the  adhering  oil.  From  oil 
of  santonica  it  may  be  obtained  by  the  process  of  Wallach  and  Brass  (1884).  These 
authors  took  advantage  of  the  property  of  eucalyptol  to  form  a crystalline  addition- 
product  with  gaseous  hydrochloric  acid.  This  latter  is  led  into  the  oil,  the  crystals  which 
separate  collected,  and  the  adhering  oil  removed  by  pressure.  This  hydrochloride  is  then 
treated  with  water,  which  liberates  the  eucalyptol,  or,  as  it  is  called  in  this  case,  cineol. 

For  purification  it  is  then  warmed  with  an  alcoholic  solution  of  potassium  hydroxide  and 
distilled  with  steam.  Besides  these  two  ways  of  preparing  eucalyptol,  there  are  others 
which  are,  however,  not  of  much  practical  interest.  As  a case  in  point  we  might  call 
attention  to  its  formation  in  small  quantities  when  terpin  hydrate  is  acted  on  by  mineral 
acids. 

Properties  and  Tests. — It  is  a colorless  liquid,  having  a characteristic  aromatic 
and  distinctly  camphoraceous  odor  and  a pungent,  spicy,  and  cooling  taste.  At  15°  C. 

(59°  F.)  it  has  the  specific  gravity  0.930  (£7.  &),  at  20°  C.  (68°  F.)  0.927  (Wallach). 
When  exposed  to  a temperature  a few  degrees  below  0°  C.  (32°  F.)  it  solidifies  to  a 
mass  of  needle-shaped  crystals,  which  liquefy  when  the  temperature  rises  to  — 1°  C. 
(30.2°  F.),  1°  C.  (33.8°  F.)  (Voiry)  ; it  boils  at  176°  to  177°  C.  (348.8°  lo  350.6°  F.). 

It  is  optically  inactive,  in  which  it  differs  from  oil  of  eucalyptus  and  many  other  volatile 
oils.  Alcohol,  carbon  disulphide,  and  glacial  acetic  acids  dissolve  it  in  all  proportions. 
With  hydrochloric  acid  it  forms  two  addition-products  containing  1 and  2 molecules 
respectively  of  eucalyptol  to  1 of  hydrochloric  acid,  and  another  with  1 of  the  latter  to 
1 of  the  former.  If  a solution  of  eucalyptol  is  shaken  with  iodo-potassium  iodide,  a 
magma  of  small  green  glossy  crystals  separates.  “ If  a portion  of  eucalyptol  be  shaken 
with  an  equal  volume  of  sodium  hydroxide  test-solution,  it  should  not  diminish  in  volume. 

Its  alcoholic  solution  should  be  neutral  to  litmus-paper,  and  should  not  assume  a brown-  1 
ish  or  violet  color  on  the  addition  of  a drop  of  ferric  chloride  test-solution  (absence  of  ? 
phenols).” — £7  S. 

Action  and  Uses.— See  Eucalyptus. 

EUCALYPTUS,  77.  S. — Eucalyptus-leaves. 

Feuilles  d'  eucalyptus,  Fr. ; Eukaly plus- Blatter,  G. : Eucalypto , Sp. 

The  leaves  of  Eucalyptus  globulus,  Labillardiere,  collected  from  the  older  parts  of  the 
tree.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  109.  I 

Nat.  Ord. — Myrtaceae,  Leptospermeae.  j 

Origin. — Th  is  is  the  blue-gum  tree  of  Tasmania,  which  was  discovered  by  Labillar- 
di£re  in  1792.  It  grows  on  moist  slopes  of  wooded  hills  in  the  southern  half  of  that  * 
island,  and  in  Victoria  on  the  mainland  of  Australia  ; it  was  introduced  into  Europe  in 
1856,  and  has  since  then  been  very  extensively  planted  in  the  southern  part  of  Europe, 
in  Northern  Africa,  in  the  Southern  United  States,  and  in  California.  It  is  a rapid 
grower,  and  attains  a height  of  60,  and  occasionally  even  of  over  90,  M.  (200  and  300 
feet).  The  flowers  are  upon  short  and  broad  axillary  peduncles,  either  solitary  or  in 
clusters  of  two  or  three.  The  buds  are  covered  with  a whitish  bloom,  and  consist  of  a 
top-shaped,  ribbed,  and  warty  calyx-tube  covered  by  a so-called  operculum,  which  is 
composed  of  the  united  petals,  is  hemispherical  in  shape  and  prolonged  into  a cone,  and 
separates  entire  like  a lid  from  the  calyx-tube.  The  flowers  are  hermaphrodite,  with 
numerous  stamens  inserted  on  a disk,  a short  style,  and  a four-  or  five-celled  ovary  united 
with  the  calyx-tube. 

Description. — The  leaves  of  young  plants  are  opposite,  shortly  petiolate,  broadly 
oval  or  oblong,  rather  obtuse,  heart-shaped  at  base,  and  of  a pale  bluish-green  color. 
Older  trees  have  the  leaves  alternate,  petiolate,  falcate,  lanceolate,  or  oval-lanceolate, 
rounded  and  oblique  at  the  base,  entire,  and  above  gradually  tapering  to  the  acute  apex. 
They  have  a length  of  15  to  30  Cm.  (6  to  12  inches),  are  thick,  leathery,  and  of  a pale 
yellowish-green  or  gray-green  color,  contain  numerous  pellucid  oil-glands,  are  straight 
feather-veined,  and  have,  besides  the  prominent  midrib,  two  lateral  veins  near  the  margin. 

The  leaves  have  a peculiar  strong  balsamic,  camphoraceous  odor,  and  an  aromatic,  bitter- 
ish, pungent  taste,  followed  by  a sensation  of  coolness. 


EUCA  L YPTUS. 


627 


Constituents. — Ilartzer  (1S70)  obtained  from  the  leaves  tannin,  cerylic  or  an  allied 
alcohol,  a crystallizable  fatty  acid — the  sodium  salt  of  which  is  soluble  in  ether — and 

Fig.  113. 


three  resins,  one  of  which  has  acid  properties,  and  yields  with  sulphuric  acid  a carmine- 
colored  copulated  acid,  becoming  violet  with  ether.  E.  S.  Wayne  (1870)  likewise  isolated 
an  acid  resin,  which  he  found  to  be  crystallizable  and  to  give  a brown-red  reaction  with 
ferric  chloride.  The  most  important  constituent,  however,  is  the  volatile  oil,  of  which 
the  leaves  yield  about  0 per  cent.  (See  Oleum  Eucalypti.) 

Action  and  Uses. — Applied  to  the  skin,  eucalyptus  oil  acts  as  an  irritant,  espe- 
cially if  its  evaporation  is  prevented.  On  the  raw  skin  it  causes  burning  pain.  Taken 
internally,  it  excites  a sense  of  warmth  in  the  fauces  and  stomach,  with  increased  sali- 
vation and  subsequent  eructations  of  gas,  but  in  doses  of  from  15  to  20  grains  it  is 
readily  tolerated.  It  is  apt  to  cause  some  fulness  of  the  head  and  vascular  excitement. 
It  seems  to  be  eliminated  through  the  lungs.  It  does  not  impart  to  the  urine  a peculiar 
odor  unless  given  in  tincture  and  in  large  doses,  and  no  resinous  matter  is  detected  in 
the  urine  by  nitric  acid,  as  when  copaiva  is  taken.  A child  seven  months  old  swallowed 
“ a few  drops  ” of  eucalyptus  oil.  It  became  drowsy  and  lost  the  power  of  its  limbs,  its 
skin  was  pale,  cold  and  insensible,  the  pupils  contracted,  the  pulse  imperceptible,  and  the 
breathing  short,  jerking,  and  interrupted.  The  patient  gradually  recovered  ( Tlierap . 
Gaz .,  ix.  862).  According  to  Gilbert,  it  eliminates  an  enormous  proportion  of  urea. 
We  are  informed  also  by  him  that  in  doses  of  20  drops  the  oil  causes  general  stimula- 
tion, a feeling  of  lightness,  and  an  irresistible  desire  to  keep  moving,  together  with  a 
remarkable  suppleness  of  the  back  and  limbs.  The  spirits  are  raised  and  the  mind  is 
clear  and  active ; the  appetite  is  increased,  and  sometimes  aphrodisiac  effects  are 
observed.  To  use  this  author’s  words,  “there  is  a true  medicinal  intoxication,”  which 
is  not  followed  by  a corresponding  depression.  In  doses  relatively  or  absolutely  exces- 
sive there  is  more  or  less  general  muscular  paresis,  without  mental  depression,  and 
easily  dissipated  by  coffee  or  alcohol.  It  is  theoretically  held  to  promote  the  capil- 
lary circulation  by  dilating  the  capillaries,  and  thereby  rendering  the  pulse  more  fre- 
quent. 

Eucalyptus  has  been  very  extensively  used  as  a remedy  for  intermittent  fever.  As  in 
all  similar  cases,  the  discovery  of  its  virtues  was  accidental.  It  is  alleged  that  more 
than  forty  years  ago  the  crew  of  a French  man-of-war,  having  lost  a number  of  men  with 
“ pernicious  fever,”  put  into  Botany  Bay,  where  the  remaining  sick  were  treated  with 
eucalyptus  and  rapidly  recovered.  It  is  also  said  that  the  virtues  of  the  tree  were  well 
known  to  the  aboriginal  inhabitants.  In  1S67  some  peasants  of  the  Spanish  province 
of  Valencia  were  found  to  be  using  the  leaves  of  the  plant  to  cure  fever  and  ague.  In 
the  following  year  Dr.  Brunei  of  Montevideo  was  led  by  reports  of  this  experience  to 
employ  it  in  hospital  practice,  and  especially  by  such  statements  as  the  following  of  Dr. 
Rainel  of  Valencia : “ I assure  you  that  four  leaves  of  this  precious  plant  infused  in 
water  form  an  excellent  febrifuge.  The  sick  as  soon  as  they  find  themselves  attacked 
hasten  to  procure  these  leaves,  and  in  no  instance  do  they  fail,  contrasting  strongly  with 
cinchona,  which  not  only  is  often  unavailing,  but  often  also  does  not  prevent  a relapse.” 
The  report  of  Dr.  Brunei  is  scarcely  less  glowing  and  positive.  In  1871,  Dr.  Keeler,  an 
official  physician  of  certain  Austrian  railways  in  malarious  districts,  affirmed  that  it  was 
quite  as  efficient  as  cinchona.  Others  have  attributed  to  it  marvellous  results  in  eases 
in  which  cinchona  failed.  Others,  still,  conclude  that,  it  is  peculiarly  curative  in  the 
inveterate  forms  of  the  disease.  There  were  not  wanting,  however,  physicians  who 
doubted  the  published  reports,  some  of  them  upon  the  ground  of  their  own  experience ; 
and  among  them  one,  at  least,  accounts  for  their  discrepancies  by  supposing  that  differ- 
ent species  of  Eucalyptus  bad  been  employed,  and  that  E.  latifolius  is  generally  ineffi- 
cient. wThile  E.  longifolius  seldom  fails  (Oeffinger.)  We  regard  the  report  of  Burdel  as 


628 


EUCALYPTUS. 


probably  the  most  accurate  and  satisfactory.  His  field  of  observation  was  in  one  of  the 
most  marshy  departments  of  France,  La  Sologne,  where  periodical  fevers  are  exception- 
ally rife  and  grave.  He  put  the  alleged  remedy  to  a prolonged  and  thorough  test,  and 
concluded  that  it  possessed  little  or  no  curative  power  over  intermittent  fever.  Out  of 
123  cases,  only  11  were  cured  without  relapse,  and  those  were,  moreover,  treated  in  a 
hospital ; and  it  is  well  known  that  intermittent-fever  patients,  on  being  removed  from 
a malarial  locality,  are  very  apt  to  recover  without  any  medicinal  treatment  at  all. 
And,  still  further,  it  was  observed  that  among  those  whose  paroxysms  ceased  under  the 
use  of  this  medicine  there  was  no  diminution  of  the  malarial  cachexia,  such  as 
usually  takes  place  after  the  treatment  by  quinine.  In  a report  on  its  use  in  the  British 
East  Indian  army  it  would  seem  to  have  failed  in  more  than  half  the  cases  (Roberts). 

On  the  whole,  there  does  not  appear  to  be  any  substantial  reason  for  believing  that  a 
substitute  for  cinchona  has  been  found  in  eucalyptus. 

It  has  been  alleged  that  this  tree  has  a special  power  of  destroying  malaria  in  the  local- 
ities where  it  grows,  but  as  the  statement  still  lacks  confirmation,  it  is  unnecessary  to 
refute  the  causes  assigned  for  this  effect — viz.  “ that  its  dead  leaves,  etc.  raise  the  soil ; 
that  it  energetically  absorbs  the  soil-water  in  consequence  of  its  very  rapid  growth  and 
the  multitude  of  stomata  that  stud  its  leaves;  and,  finally,  that  it  protects  the  soil  against 
the  extreme  solar  heat  so  favorable  to  the  generation  of  animalculae  ” (Gubler).  These 
reasons  would  be  equally  valid  as  proofs  of  its  power  to  generate  malaria.  The  improve- 
ment that  has  taken  place  in  the  sanitary  state  of  certain  malarial  localities  where  the 
eucalyptus  has  been  planted  is  real,  but  it  should  be  remembered  that  all  arboriculture 
has  a similar  effect.  The  extremely  rapid  growth  of  the  eucalyptus  may  render  it  pecu- 
liarly efficient.  In  Italy,  moreover,  and  elsewhere,  localities  at  first  supposed  to  be  pro- 
tected in  this  manner  have  sometimes  relapsed  into  their  original  insalubrity.  The  use 
of  eucalyptus  oil  in  the  treatment  of  intermittent  fever  was  reported  by  Hr.  J.  H.  Musser 
to  be  “ of  decided  value  in  about  one-third  of  all  cases”  ( Therap . Gaz .,  x.  369).  This 
result  was  even  less  favorable  than  is  usually  attained  by  merely  removing  the  patients  ] 
from  the  malarial  focus,  as  was  subsequently  recognized  by  Hr.  M.  ( Med . News,  lv.  632). 

The  a-priori  method  of  reasoning  has  led  from  the  assumed  germicidal  properties  of 
eucalyptus  oil  to  its  use  in  typhoid  fever.  In  the  dose  of  10  minims  every  four  hours  it 
is  claimed  to  have  reduced  the  mortality  of  the  disease  to  almost  nothing  during  an  epi- 
demic in  Queensland.  But,  along  with  the  oil,  an  average  quantity  of  5 to  10  ounces, 
and  sometimes  30  ounces,  of  whiskey  was  given  in  twenty-four  hours ; food  was  freely 
supplied ; and  “ frequently  cold  packs  from  the  head  to  the  knees  at  any  rise  of  temper- 
ature ” were  employed  ( Practitioner , xxxiv.  313;  xxxviii.  255).  It  cannot  be  doubted 
that  the  influence  of  the  oil,  whatever  it  may  have  been,  was  completely  overlaid  by  that 
of  the  alcohol  within  and  the  cold  water  without  to  which  the  patients  were  subjected.  j 
There  is  as  little  ground  for  admitting  the  value  claimed  for  it  in  scarlatina  ( Annuaire  de 
Therap.,  1890,  p.  117). 

As  a summary  of  the  virtues  claimed  for  this  medicine  the  following  may  be  cited: 

“ Not  being  an  irritant,  it  may  be  liberally  used  in  all  cases  of  hospital  gangrene  and  other 
gangrenous  affections,  of  fetid  suppuration,  such  as  occurs  in  glanders,  syphilis,  abscesses 
connected  with  dead  bone,  etc.  It  may  be  used  with  advantage  to  prevent  animal  and 
vegetable  putrefaction,  and  hence  as  a deodorizer  of  hospital  wards.  Internally  and  by 
inhalation  it  may  be  given  in  all  cases  of  ulcer  of  the  stomach  or  bowels,  in  septicaemia, 
typhoid  fever,  scarlatina,  pulmonary  gangrene,  fetid  bronchitis,  associated  or  not  with 
phthisis,  and  in  the  absence  of  fever,  etc.”  To  this  enumeration  may  be  added  cases  of 
fetid  lochia,  ozsena,  and  cancer  of  the  tongue.  It  would  seem  to  be  useful  in  uterine  and 
vesical  catarrh,  and  in  gonorrhoea  and  gleet,  and  in  some  cases  apparently  of  chronic  ulcer 
of  the  stomach  it  has  arrested  the  vomiting  and  enabled  the  patient  to  retain  and  digest 
food.  According  to  Mosler,  a solution  of  1 part  of  eucalyptus  oil  in  5 of  alcohol  and  35 
of  water  forms  an  efficient  liquid,  when  atomized,  for  inhalation  in  diphtheria  (Times and 
Gazette,  Aug.  1879,  p.  214;  Gibbes,  Am.  Jour.  Med.  Sci.,  July,  1883,  p.244).  It  seems 
quite  possible  that  the  5 parts  of  alcohol  would  be  more  efficient  than  the  1 part  of  oil 
in  this  liquid  when  employed  along  with  oil  of  turpentine  in  the  disease,  and  it  is  certain 
that  the  vapor  of  warm  water  alone  and  of  that  from  slaking  lime  is  credited  with  many 
cures.  The  reports  of  Bonamy  (Bull.  de.  Tlier.,  cxii.  364)  and  of  Murray-Gibbes  (Amer. 
Jour.  Med.  Sci.,  Jan.  1889,  p.  68)  must  be  thus  qualified.  Schultze  used  as  a dressing 
for  wounds  a mixture  of  1 part  of  this  oil  to  9 parts  of  olive  oil  (Bull,  de  Therap.,  xcix. 
430).  As  a rationale  of  its  mode  of  action  we  are  told  that  if  a person  is  kept  under 
its  influence  the  blood  drawn  from  his  veins  will  not  undergo  putrefaction.  “ At  all 


EUONYMUS. 


629 


events,  the  haematoglobulin  is  expelled  from  the  globules  and  becomes  oxidized  externally 
to  them,  and  the  anatomical  element  is,  as  it  were,  embalmed.”  It  is  somewhat  difficult 
to  conceive  that  the  sick  of  any  disease  should  profit  by  the  mummification  of  their 
blood-corpuscles.  Long  ago  the  resemblance  of  eucalyptus  oil  to  camphor  was  pointed 
out  by  Cloez,  and  later  by  Gubler.  Both  substances  are  sedatives  of  the  nervous  and 
circulatory  systems,  but  by  relatively  different  doses.  Like  camphor,  eucalyptus  oil  has 
been  given  for  nervous  headache , or  migraine.  Drs.  Lewis  and  De  Schweinitz  ( Med 
News , lv.  62)  used  it  with  advantage  in  doses  of  5 minims  every  four  hours  and  in  gela- 
tin capsules. 

Undoubtedly,  eucalyptus,  and  especially  its  oil,  tend  to  restrain  putrefactive  fermenta- 
tion, as  all  aromatics  have  been  known  to  do  since  the  beginning  of  history  ; and  possibly 
these  new  agents  may  excel  the  old  in  this  respect.  Certain  it  is  that  the  oil  is  a most 
efficient  deodorizer,  and,  having  a very  agreeable  perfume  of  its  own,  is  capable  of  sub- 
stituting a pleasant  for  an  offensive  smell,  while  its  stimulant  operation  upon  diseased 
tissues  assists  them  in  recovering  a natural  mode  of  action.  As  an  antiseptic  dressing 
many  surgeons  have  employed  it  as  a substitute  for  carbolized  oil,  and  it  is  stated  to 
have  been  approved  by  Mr.  Lister  ( Lancet , May  21,  1881).  It  has  been  used  as  a 
dressing  for  cancerous  ulcers,  and  applied  on  tampons  it  corrects  the  fetor  of  lochial 
and  other  uterine  discharges  (Sloan,  Lancet , Sept.  2,  1882).  Similar  applications  of 
fluid  extract  of  eucalyptus  and  glycerin  are  said  to  be  very  efficient  in  relieving  pain  in 
displacements  and  other  painful  disorders  of  the  uterus  ( Amer.  Jour.  Med.  Sci .,  Oct.  1882, 
p.  397). 

It  has  been  claimed  that  tincture  or  the  oil  of  eucalyptus  will  cure  whooping  cough 
( Lancet , No.  1889,  p.  901),  but  there  is  no  adequate  proof  of  its  efficacy  beyond  that 
which  belongs  to  various  astringent  and  stimulant  applications  made  to  the  fauces  in  this 
disease.  Its  astringent  and  balsamic  qualities  naturally  suggested  its  use  in  the  topical 
treatment  of  various  affections  in  which  other  medicines  of  like  qualities  had  been  found 
useful,  especially  in  alcoholic  tincture.  But  it  cannot  be  doubted  that  the  alcohol  had  a 
potent  influence  in  the  treatment  by  tincture  of  eucalyptus  of  slight  haemorrhages,  mucous 
profluvia,  leucorrhoea.  gonorrhoea , indolent  and  irritable  ulcers , spongy  gums , etc.  In  certain 
of  these  affections,  especially  in  ulcers , the  fresh  bruised  leaves,  deprived  of  their  nerves, 
have  been  found  to  cause  sufficient  stimulation  to  promote  a cure. 

It  is  alleged  that  smoking  the  dried  leaves  of  eucalyptus  in  a pipe  or  cigar  is,  with  the 
exception  of  hypodermic  injections  of  morphine,  the  most  efficient  means  of  calming  irri- 
tation and  procuring  sleep  in  cardiac  and  aneurismal  asthma , and  particularly  in  cases 
of  pressure  on  the  vagus  or  its  branches  by  thoracic  aneurisms  (Maclean).  When  the 
patient  is  too  ill  to  inhale  actively  he  may  be  kept  in  an  atmosphere  filled  with  the  smoke 
of  the  burning  leaves.  The  tincture  of  eucalyptus  is  said  to  remove  the  fishy  flavor  and 
smell  from  cod-liver  oil  when  added  in  the  proportion  of  1 part  to  100.  The  leaves  are 
strewn  among  woollen  clothing  to  protect  it  from  moths. 

The  fresh  leaves  may  be  applied  bruised  or  mixed  with  poultices.  They  may  be 
given  internally  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.30  (gr.  v)  or  more,  but  efficient  doses  of  them  are  too 
bulky  for  convenient  use  in  this  manner.  The  extract  is  very  apt  to  derange  digestion 
and  occasion  diarrhoea.  The  dose  of  the  oil  may  be  stated  at  from  2 to  5 drops.  It 
should  be  given  in  an  emulsion,  or,  still  better,  in  gelatin  capsules.  The  fluid  extract  is 
the  most  agreeable  form  of  the  medicine ; it  may  be  prescribed  in  doses  of  Gm.  1 
(n^xv).  The  oil  may  be  diluted  with  alcohol  or  oil  for  topical  use,  or  incorporated  in 
suppositories  with  the  ordinary  constituents  of  these  preparations. 

^Eucalyptus  honey  is  produced  by  bees  feeding  on  eucalyptus  flowers.  From 
150-175  grms.  (say  ^v-vj),  mixed  with  milk  and  given  to  dogs,  reduced  the  pulse  from 
121  to  70,  and  the  temperature  by  1°  C.  A tablespoonful  of  it  occasioned  in  a man  a 
diffused  agreeable  warmth  and  an  increased  freedom  of  breathing.  Its  continued  use 
increased  the  urine  and  its  uric  acid,  and  gave  it  the  peculiar  smell  of  “ new-mown  hay.” 
It  has  been  recommended  as  a remedy  for  catarrhs,  fevers,  and  putrid  and  parasitic 
conditions,  also  as  a heart  sedative  and  a remedy  for  gonorrhoea  ( Centralhl . f.  Ther., 
v.  474). 

EUONYMUS,  77.  Euonymus. 

Cortex  euonymi. — Wahoo , Spindle  tree , Burning  hush , E. ; Ecorce  de  fusain  (de  bonnet 
de  pretre'),  Fr. ; Spillhaumrinde , Spindelhaum , Pfaffenhiitchen , G. 

The  bark  of  the  root  of  Euonymus  atropurpureus,  Jacquin. 

Nat.  Qrd. — Celastrineae. 


630 


EUONYMUS. 


Origin. — The  wahoo  is  a shrub  1.8  to  3 or  even  4.2  M.  (6  to  10,  or  14,  feet)  high, 
and  is  found  in  shady  woods  of  the  northern  and  middle  section  of  the  United  States  east 
of  the  Mississippi.  As  an  ornamental  shrub  it  is  of  a strikingly  handsome  appearance  in 
autumn  from  its  copious  crimson,  smooth,  four-lobed  capsules,  which  are  pendulous  on 
long  peduncles.  Its  branches  are  slightly  quadrangular,  the  leaves  opposite,  petioled, 
elliptic-ovate,  serrate,  and  pointed ; the  flowers  are  dark -purple,  in  loose  cymes  of  three  to 
six,  and  appear  in  June.  The  root-bark  is  preferred. 

Description. — It  comes  in  curved  or  quilled  fragments  varying  in  thickness  between 
2 and  5 Mm.  (yL  and  inch).  It  is  externally  of  a light  ash-gray  color,  mottled  with 
larger  or  smaller  patches,  or  fine  longitudinal  scaly  ridges  and  meshes,  brown  or  blackish 
cork,  detaching  in  very  thin  and  small  scales.  The  inner  surface  to  which  fragments  of 
the  white  wood  are  often  adhering,  is  slightly  tawny  and  smooth.  When  dry  the  bark 
breaks,  both  transversely  and  longitudinally,  with  a nearly  smooth  fracture,  exhibiting  a 
whitish  and  pale  brownish  tissue,  which  in  the  inner  layers  has  a distinct  tangential 
arrangement.  The  bark  attracts  moisture  in  a damp  atmosphere,  thereby  losing  its  brit- 
tleness, is  nearly  indorous,  and  has  a sweetish  afterward  bitterish  and  somewhat  acrid 
taste. 

Constituents. — W.  W.  Clothier  (1861)  isolated  bitter,  yellow,  acicular  crystals  from 
the  tincture  prepared  with  diluted  alcohol  by  agitating  it  with  chloroform.  The  same 
principle  is  probably  contained  in  the  so-called  euonymin  of  the  eclectics,  which  is  obtained 
by  precipitating  a concentrated  tincture  of  the  bark  with  water.  W.  T.  Wenzell  (1862), 
however,  obtained  by  treatment  of  the  tincture  with  chloroform  a dark-yellow  substance 
from  which  ether  dissolved  a golden-yellow  resin  ; the  insoluble  portion  was  dissolved  by 
alcohol,  a resin  precipitated  by  lead  acetate,  and  the  lead  'removed  from  the  filtrate  ; 
on  evaporation,  uncrystallizable  euonymin  was  left,  having  an  intensely  bitter  taste.  It 
is  a neutral  principle  soluble  in  ether  (?),  alcohol,  and  water,  and  precipitated  by  lead 
subacetate  and  phosphomolybdic  acid.  Wenzell  obtained  also  asparagin  ; euonic  acid, 
which  crystallizes  in  needles  and  is  precipitated  by  lead  subacetate ; tartaric,  malic, 
and  citric  acids ; several  resins,  starch,  pectin,  and  other  common  vegetable  principles. 
Naylor  and  Chaplin  (1889)  isolated  what  they  thought  was  a glucoside,  atropurpurin , 
as  it  reduced  Fehling’s  Solution,  but  on  preparing  a larger  quantity  and  purifying  it,  they 
found  it  not  to  reduce  the  Fehling’s  test  and  to  be  dulcite  or  an  isomere  of  it. 

Allied  Drugs. — Euonymus  americanus,  Linn6 — Strawberry  bush,  E. — is  a low,  usually  trailing 
shrub  with  crimson  warty  capsules  and  orange-red  roots. 

Euon.  EUROPyEus,  Linnt,  is  2.4  to  6 M.  (8  to  20  feet)  high,  occasionally  cultivated  in  gardens, 
has  greenish-yellow  flowers  and  pale-red  capsules,  the  arillus  being  orange-red.  All  parts  of  it 
are  emetic  and  purgative ; the  fruit,  made  into  an  ointment,  has  been  used  for  the  destruction  of 
pediculi.  Riederer  (1833)  believed  the  bitter  taste  to  be  due  to  an  alkaloid,  euonymine,  which  he 
did  not  succeed  in  obtaining  pure.  Grundner  (1847)  regarded  it  as  a mixture  of  resin  with  bitter 
extractive.  The  arillus  yields  by  pressure  an  orange-colored  oil  which  has  a bitter  taste.  The 
orange-red  coloring  matter,  which  is  quite  prevalent  in  this  natural  order,  seems  to  deserve 
careful  investigation. 

Action  and  Uses. — Euonymus  was  formerly  reported  to  be  “ tonic,  a hydragogue 
cathartic,  diuretic,  and  antiperiodic.”  This  barbarous  jumble  of  incongruous  qualities  is 
now  replaced  by  one  which  belongs  to  euonymin,  in  common  with  many  other  purgatives 
which  also  increase  the  secretion  of  the  bile,  especially  aloes,  colocynth,  and  rhubarb,  and 
many  other  medicines  which  are  not  purgatives,  such  as  colchicum,  ipecacuanha,  nitro- 
muriatic  acid,  phosphate  of  ammonium,  benzoate  and  salicylate  of  sodium,  and  phosphate 
of  sodium,  which  last  is  only  feebly  laxative. 

According  to  Rutherford  ( Physiological  Action  of  Drugs  on  the  Secretion  of  Bile , 1880, 
p.  45),  “ 5 grains  of  euonymin,  mixed  with  a small  quantity  of  boiling  water  and  placed 
in  the  duodenum  of  dogs,  powerfully  stimulated  the  liver.”  More  recently  (1888)  Pre- 
vost  and  Binet  reached  similar  conclusions.  In  dogs  it  only  slightly  increases  the  intestinal 
secretion,  but  is  an  active  purgative  in  the  human  subject.  Whether,  therefore,  it  is  a 
cholagogue  in  man  is  not  yet  demonstrated.  We  are  indeed  assured  that  one  practitioner 
has  prescribed  it  “ in  over  fifty  cases  of  biliary  derangement  and  sick  headache , and  finds 
it  of  much  value  ” ( Practitioner , xxiii.  336)  ; and  another  declares  it  to  be  “ one  of  the 
best  remedies  in  the  materia  medica,  when  used  in  small  doses,  for  torpidity  of  the 
mucous  membrane  and  liver,  for  haemorrhoids  with  torpidity  of  the  peristaltic  action  of 
the  bowels,  and  in  the  1 erysipelatous  diathesis  ’ ” ( Edinb . Med.  Jour .,  xxvii.  175)  ; but 
what  is  meant  by  “ biliary  derangement  ” or  “ torpidity,”  etc.  it  is  impossible  to  define  ; 
and  the  impression  remains  that  it  signifies  mainly  constipation , which  any  familiar  and 


EUPATORIUM. 


631 


thorough  purgative,  such  as  the  compound  cathartic  pill,  would  be  adapted  to  remove,  or 
podophyllin,  whose  action  upon  dogs  seems  to  be  almost  identical  with  that  of  euonymin. 
On  the  whole,  neither  wahoo-bark  nor  its  purgative  principle  can  be  said  to  possess  any 
peculiar  virtues.  Either  is  an  active  and  useful  purgative,  but  nothing  more.  “ Euon- 
ymin ” has  been  tested  by  Conil  and  others  with  results  like  those  just  stated  ; but  Paschkis 
maintains  that  E.  atropurpureus  has  no  medicinal  qualities  whatever,  while  Romm  attrib- 
utes to  it  a power  over  the  heart  like  that  of  digitalis  ( Tlier . Gaz.,  ix.  143,  787). 

A decoction  or  an  infusion  of  euonymus  may  be  prepared  with  Gm.  32  of  the  bark 
in  Gm.  500  of  water  (^j  in  Oj),  and  given  in  the  dose  of  a wineglassful.  The 
average  dose  of  euonymin  is  Gm.  0.12  (gr.  ij).  It  is  usually  taken  at  bed-time,  and  fol- 
lowed the  next  morning  by  a saline  purge,  which  should  be  sulphate  of  sodium,  accord- 
ing to  Rutherford,  a “ hepatic  stimulant,”  and  not  sulphate  of  magnesium,  which  the 
same  authority  assures  us  “ has  no  cholagogue  action.” 

Griffith  states  (Med.  Botany')  that  E.  americanus,  E.  europaeus,  and  still  other  species, 
including  E.  atropurpureus,  “ have  similar  properties ; the  seeds  are  all  nauseous,  purga- 
tive, and  emetic,  and  are  used  in  some  places  to  destroy  vermin  in  the  hair ; the  leaves 
are  poisonous  to  sheep  and  other  animals  feeding  on  them.” 

EUPATORIUM,  U.  Eupatorium. 

Hcrba  eupatorii perfoliati. — Thoroughwort ',  Boneset , Indian  sage , E.  ; Herbe  d' enpatoire 
-ptr/oHee.  Herbe  d Jievre,  Herbe  parfaite,  Fr. ; Durchwachsdost , Durchwachsener  Wasser- 
dost , G. ; Eupatorio , Sp. 

The  leaves  and  flowering  tops  of  Eupatorium  perfoliatum,  Linne , s.  E.  connatum 
Michaux , gathered  after  flowering  has  commenced.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 147. 

Nat.  Ord. — Composite,  Eupatorieae. 

Description. — Thoroughwort  inhabits  damp  soil  and  low  swampy  grounds  in  Canada 
and  the  United  States.  It  is  a hairy  perennial,  with  an  erect  stout  stem  0.6  to  1.2  M. 
(2  to  4 feet)  high  and  much  branched  at  the  summit ; the  leaves  are  opposite,  taper- 
ing, lanceolate  10  to  15  Cm.  (4  to  6 inches)  long,  united  at  the  base,  with  the  margin 
crenately  serrate,  rugosely  veined,  rough  above  and  minutely  resinous  dotted  beneath. 
The  flowers  are  in  dense  level-topped  corymbs ; the  heads  have  an  oblong  involucre  con- 
sisting of  lance-linear  scales,  and  contain  ten  to  fifteen  tubular  white  florets  with  a bristly 
pappus  in  a single  row.  Its  flowers  appear  in  July,  and  it  continues  to  bloom  until  Sep- 
tember. The  leaves  and  the  flowering  tops  with  the  small  branches  are  collected  in  July; 
on  drying,  they  lose  from  75  to  80  per  cent,  in  weight.  The  drug  has  a rather  weak 
aromatic  odor  and  a somewhat  astringent  and  persistently  bitter  taste. 

Constituents. — Boneset  contains  a minute  quantity  of  volatile  oil,  some  tannin,  and 
a bitter  principle  which  has  not  been  isolated.  The  analyses  of  W.  Peterson  (1851)  and 
M.  II.  Bickley  (1854)  elicited,  besides  those  mentioned,  the  usual  common  constituents 
of  herbs.  G.  Latin  (1880)  isolated  from  the  ethereal  extract,  by  means  of  benzin,  white 
needles  of  a tasteless  wax,  and  ascertained  the  bitter  principle  eupatorin  to  be  a glucoside 
soluble  in  alcohol,  chloroform,  ether,  and  boiling  water ; boiled  with  sulphuric  acid  and 
water,  it  gives  off  a raspberry-like  odor.  Shamel  (1888)  obtained  eupatorin  in  a crystal- 
line and  amorphous  state,  and  found  it  to  be  insoluble  in  water,  concentrated  sulphuric 
acid,  and  concentrated  hydrochloric  acid,  but  soluble  even  in  dilute  nitric  acid,  with  a 
brown  coloration.  This  solution  gave  with  phosphomolybdic  acid  a green  color  ; picric 
acid,  a few  needle-shaped  crystals ; and  with  auric  chloride,  a slight  color.  It  is  also 
soluble  in  alkalies.  The  formula  of  the  crystalline  nitrate  was  found  to  be  C2oH25036 
IIX03.  Parsons  (1879)  determined  in  the  air-dry  herb  13.5  albuminoids,  15.2  resin  and 
chlorophyll,  and  7.5  ash. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Infusum  eupatorii. — Infusion  of  thoroughwort,  E. ; 
Tisane  d’herbe  a fi^vre,  Fr. ; Eupatorium-Aufguss,  G. — Take  of  thoroughwort  a troy- 
ounce;  boiling  water  a pint.  Macerate  for  two  hours  in  a covered  vessel,  and  strain. — 
U.  S.  P.  1870. 

Action  and  Uses. — Eupatorium  resembles  chamomile  in  its  effects.  It  is  a stimu- 
lant tonic  in  small  and  a laxative  in  large  doses,  and  an  emetic  or  diaphoretic  in  warm 
infusion.  Like  all  such  plants,  it  is  used  to  prevent  or  to  break  the  chill  in  intermittent 
fever  of  a mild  type.  A hot  infusion  is  a popular  and  efficient  remedy  in  the  forming 
stage  of  muscular  rheumatism , sore  throat , bronchitis , and  even  influenza.  Its  power  of 
relieving  pain  in  the  limbs  in  the  last-named  disease  entitled  it  to  the  popular  name  of 
“ boneset.”  In  atonic  dyspepsia  its  effects  resemble  those  of  other  bitter  tonics.  The 


632 


EUPHORBIA. 


dose  of  the  powder  is  stated  to  be  Gm.  1.30-2.00  (gr.  xx-xxx).  The  infusion,  which  is 
the  most  convenient  form  for  administering  the  medicine,  is  made  with  Gm.  32  (1  ounce) 
of  the  herb  to  Gm.  500  (a  pint)  of  boiling  water,  macerated  for  two  hours  in  a covered 
vessel  and  strained.  Dose  as  a tonic,  Gm.  32-64  (1  or  2 fluidounces). 

Mikania  guaco  was  first  known  (1788)  medicinally  as  an  antidote  to  serpents’  bites 
used  in  South  America,  and  about  1831  it  had  a reputation  in  Europe  for  the  cure  of 
dyspepsia,  debility,  asthma,  gout,  rheumatism,  and  even  cholera  ! It  is  therefore  prob- 
ably a stimulant  tonic  (Strumpf,  Handbuch , ii.  14).  More  recently  (1879)  it  was  proposed 
as  a cure  for  cancer.  Aristolochia  cymbifera , “ the  true  guaco,”  is  said  by  Butte  to  be  a 
violent  emeto-cathartic,  but,  when  applied  to  the  skin,  to  display  analgesic  properties, 
especially  relieving  the  pruritus  of  several  cutaneous  diseases  ( Therap . Gaz .,  xiii.  711). 

Of  the  other  allied  species  mentioned  above,  the  greater  number  appear  to  possess 
essentially  the  same  properties  as  the  officinal  plant,  but  E.  purpureum  and  E.  canna- 
binum  are  believed  to  be  diuretic.  The  former  has  been  used  in  strangury , gravel , and 
gout.  The  extract  procured  by  evaporating  the  tincture  has  been  sold  as  eupurpurin , of 
which  it  has  been  said  that  “ three  grains  every  three  or  four  hours  causes  an  enormous 
flow  of  urine”  ( Lancet , Jan.  1863,  p.  127). 

EUPHORBIA.— Spurge. 

Wild  ipecac , Wild  hipp , E. ; Euphorbe , Fr. ; Wolfsmilch , G. ; Euforbia , Sp. 

The  roots  of  two  plants  of  this  genus  were  recognized  by  the  U.  S.  P.  previous  to  1880 
— namely,  Euphorbia  corollata,  Linne  (Meehan,  Native  Flowers , i.  109),  and  Euph. 
Ipecacuanha,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Euphorbiaceae. 

Origin. — Euph.  Corallata,  the  blooming  or  large-flowering  spurge , also  called  snake- 
milk  and  milk  pur  slain,  is  a smooth  perennial  herb  which  is  met  with  in  low,  sandy,  and 
dry  soil  from  Canada  to  Florida  and  west  to  Mississippi,  and  is  abundant  in  many  locali- 
ties, chiefly  of  the  Southern  and  Western  States.  It  produces  a slender,  nearly  simple 
stem  60  to  90  Cm.  (2  to  3 feet)  high,  which  has  the  leaves,  excepting  the  floral  ones, 
alternate,  linear-oblong,  and  obtuse.  The  flowers  are  in  umbels  of  five  to  seven 
rays,  each  one  being  again  two-  or  three-forked,  and  are  conspicuous  for  the  showy 
white  appendages  to  the  involucre,  which  have  the  appearance  of  petals  and  bear  a 
greenish  gland  at  the  base.  The  smooth  capsule  separates  at  maturity  into  three  carpels, 
each  containing  a single  ash-colored  seed.  It  flowers  in  the  latter  part  of  summer  and  in 
autumn,  when  the  root  should  be  collected.  This,  like  the  next,  is  rarely  met  with  in  the 
market ; we  have  received  instead  of  it  the  roots  of  Gillenia  stipulacea,  of  Triosteum  per- 
foliatum,  and  of  other  plants. 

Euph.  Ipecacuanha,  called  ipecac  spurge  and  American , Carolina , or  white  ipecac , is 
a smooth  perennial  herb  of  a dark-green  or  dark -purplish  color,  growing  in  barren,  sandy 
soil  at  a limited  distance  from  the  seashore  from  Connecticut  southward  to  Georgia.  It 
produces  several  ascending  or  often  diffusely-spreading  stems,  which  fork  from  near  the 
base  and  have  opposite,  obovate  or  oblong,  obtuse,  and  entire,  nearly  sessile  leaves.  The 
flowers  are  inconspicuous,  long-peduncled,  and  appear  singly  from  the  forks  or  the  axils 
of  the  upper  leaves.  The  nearly  smooth  capsule  contains  in  each  of  its  three  cells  one 
white  somewhat  dotted  seed.  It  flowers  during  the  spring  months. 

Description. — The  root  of  the  blooming  spurge  is  45  to  60  Cm.  (1J  to  2 feet)  long, 
and,  when  full  grown,  about  25  Mm.  (one  inch)  thick,  cylindrical,  and  little  branched  ; is 
externally  of  a dark-brown  or,  when  old,  of  a blackish,  color;  has  underneath  the  thin 
corky  layer  a thickish  white  bark,  which  encloses  a spongy,  porous,  whitish  wood,  radially 
striate  by  many  medullary  rays.  In  the  dry  state  it  is  longitudinally  wrinkled  and 
breaks  with  a short  nearly  smooth  fracture.  It  is  inodorous  and  has  a sweetish  afterward 
warm  taste. 

The  root  of  the  ipecac  spurge  resembles  the  preceding  in  general  characters,  but  is 
thinner,  from  0.9  to  1.8  M.  (3  to  6 feet)  long,  has  externally  a gray  or  brownish-yellow 
corky  layer,  which  is  never  blackish  or  dark  colored,  and  shows  internally  a yellowish 
porous  wood.  Odor  and  taste  are  similar  to  the  preceding.  Barton  believed  it  to  be 
equally  efficacious  throughout  the  year. 

Constituents. — The  latest  analyses  of  the  last-named  root,  by  Petzelt  (1873)  and 
Dilg  (1875),  agree  with  the  older  one  of  Bigelow  in  proving  the  presence  of  resinous, 
gummy,  and  other  common  constituents  of  plants ; they  also  showed  abundant  presence 
of  starch.  Petzelt  regards  the  resinous  portions  as  containing  the  emetic  principle.  The 


EUPHORBIUM. 


633 


root  may  possibly  contain  a glucoside,  since  Dilg  did  not  get  a reaction  for  glucose  until 
the  decoction  had  been  boiled  with  an  acid.  Euphorbon  was  found  among  the  products 
extracted  by  petroleum  benzin.  The  constituents  of  blooming  spurge-root  are  probably 
similar. 

Allied  Plants. — The  genus  Euphorbia  comprises  a large  number  of  shrubby  and  herbaceous 
species,  all  of  which  are  laticiferous  and  possess  more  or  less  acrid  properties.  Of  the  thirty  or 
more  species  growing  in  the  United  States,  we  give  brief  descriptions  of  a few  which  are  low  or 
prostrate  : 

Euphorbia  prostrata,  Alton.  It  is  villous-pulverulent,  with  roundish,  very  obtuse,  and 
above  serrulate  leaves,  and  produces  a woolly  fruit  with  quadrangular,  rugose,  and  brown  seeds. 
It  grows  in  moist  localities  in  the  Southern  States. 

Euph.  maculata,  Linn6.  It  is  a common  weed,  growing  on  roadsides,  with  oblong  or  nearly 
linear  leaves,  having  usually  a brownish  spot  upon  the  upper  surface,  and  being  very  oblique  at 
the  base  and  serrulate  above.  Like  the  following  species,  it  is  known  in  some  places  as  spotted 
eyebright : 

Euph.  humistrata,  Engelmann.  It  inhabits  rich  soil  in  the  Mississippi  Valley,  and  resembles 
the  two  preceding,  but  has  elliptical  or  obovate  leaves  and  obtusely-angled  seeds. 

Euph.  hypericifolia,  Linn£.  It  is  found  in  the  West  Indies,  and  is  common  in  the  United 
States  and  Canada,  grows  to  the  height  of  38  to  50  Cm.  (15  or  20  inches),  resembles  in  foliage 
the  preceding,  and  has  smooth  capsules  and  obtusely-angled  seeds. 

These  and  allied  species  probably  contain  the  same  principles  found  by  Zollikofer  (1842)  in 
E.  maculata — namely,  caoutchouc,  resin,  tannin,  gallic  acid  (?),  etc.  Similar  constituents  have 
been  found  by  John,  Stickel,  and  others  in  E.  Cyparissias,  Linn 6,  E.  Esula,  Linne , E.  Peplus, 
LinnS,  E.  helioscopia,  LinnS,  and  others  which  are  natives  of  Europe,  but  occasionally  met  with 
in  cultivation  or  spontaneous  in  North  America.  Their  acrid  principle  has  not  been  fully 
isolated.  Numerous  other  species  of  Euphorbia  are  medicinally  employed  in  those  countries 
where  they  are  indigenous.  Recently,  Euph.  pilulifera,  Linne , an  herbaceous  plant  of  India 
and  Australia,  has  been  recommended  in  bronchial  and  asthmatic  affections. 

Action  and  Uses. — Large-flowering  spurge  is  reputed  to  possess  emeto-cathartic 
properties,  and  its  bruised  root  will  vesicate  the  skin.  Hence  it  cannot  be  a safe  agent 
in  cases  of  gastro-intestinal  irritation.  Dose  as  an  emetic,  Gm.  1.30  (gr.  xx)  ; as  a cathar- 
tic, Gm.  60  (gr.  x)  ; as  a diaphoretic,  Gm.  0.30  (gr.  v). 

Ipecacuanha  spurge  does  not  differ  essentially  from  the  other  officinal  species  of 
Euphorbium.  It  may  be  used  under  the  same  conditions  and  in  similar  doses. 

A case  of  poisoning  by  the  seeds  of  Euphorbia  lata , found  in  the  neighborhood  of 
Philadelphia,  is  related  by  Harlan  ( Med . and  Physical  Researches , p.  603).  The  symp- 
toms included  violent  retching  and  vomiting,  with  excessive  purging,  followed  by  stupor 
and  dilated  pupils.  The  patient  recovered  after  cold  affusions.  A similar  case  of  poison- 
ing by  the  seeds  of  E.  lathyris  is  reported  in  a French  journal  for  1881  (Bull,  de  Therap ., 
ci.  541).  The  reporter  recommends  opiates  as  the  most  appropriate  antidote. 

Euphorbia  prostrata  was  in  1861  reported  by  Dr.  Irwin,  Asst.  Surgeon  U.  S.  A.,  to 
be  esteemed  by  the  Indians  and  settlers  in  Arizona  as  an  infallible  remedy  for  the  bite  of 
the  rattlesnake  and  for  the  bites  and  stings  of  almost  all  venomous  animals  and  insects.  In 
several  experiments  performed  by  him  on  dogs  allowed  to  be  bitten  by  rattlesnakes,  and 
after  the  characteristic  effects  of  the  venom  had  been  fully  developed,  the  fresh  juice  of 
this  plant  was  applied  to  the  wonnds,  and  at  the  same  time  administered  internally  in 
doses  of  from  4 to  6 ounces,  with  the  effect  of  immediately  abating  the  symptoms  and 
afterward  curing  the  animals. 

Euphorbia  heterodoxa,  a Brazilian  plant,  furnishes  an  acrid  juice  which  is  escharo- 
tic  and  softens  tissues  to  which  it  is  applied,  and  especially  cancroids , epitheliomas , and 
syphilitic  vegetations.  It  is  this  plant  which  has  been  spoken  of  as  “ leite  d’Alveloz  ” 
(Bull,  de  Therap.,  cx.  513  ; cxi.  130  ; Therap.  Gaz.,  xi.  755). 

EUPHORBIUM,  P.  G. — Euphorbium. 

Euphorbe,  Gomme-resine  d' euphorbe,  Fr. ; Euphorbium , G. ; Euforbio,  Sp. 

The  gum-resin  obtained  from  Euphorbia  resinifera,  Berg.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med. 
Plants , 240. 

Nat.  Ord. — Euphorbiaceae. 

Origin. — The  plant  is  indigenous  to  the  lower  slopes  of  the  Atlas  Mountains  of 
Morocco.  It  has  an  ascending,  cactus-like,  fleshy,  quadrangular  stem  with  spreading 
branches,  and,  instead  of  leaves,  is  furnished  with  divergent,  spinescent  stipules,  situated 
in  pairs  on  the  angles ; the  flowers  are  in  pedunculate  cymes  of  three  or  rarely  more. 
On  wounding  the  branches  a milk-juice  exudes,  which  hardens  upon  the  plant,  usually 


634 


EUPHORBIUM. 


encrusting  the  spines.  While  it  is  being  collected  the  mouth  and  nostrils  are  protected 
by  a cloth  from  the  irritating  effects  of  the  dust. 

Description. — Euphorbium  is  seen  in  roundish  or  somewhat  three-cornered,  conical- 
cylindrical,  or  irregular  pieces  varying  considerably  in  size,  the  largest  measuring  nearly 
an  inch  (25  Mm.).  The  shape  is  influenced  by  the  portion  of  the  plant  around  which 
the  exudation  is  hardened,  and  most  pieces  are  observed  with  one  or  more  holes  and  enclos- 
ing fragments  of  the  spines,  flowers,  or  fruit.  Euphorbium  is  light  brownish-yellow, 
scarcely  glossy,  somewhat  translucent,  brittle,  nearly  inodorous,  but  the  dust  excites  vio- 
lent sneezing,  and,  if  inhaled,  acts  as  an  acrid  poison.  The  taste  is  at  first  slight,  after- 
ward burning  and  acrid.  When  heated  it  gives  off  a faint  odor,  suggesting  that  of  ben- 
zoin, and  afterward  fuses  and  burns  with  a bright,  sooty  flame.  Euphorbium  is  not 
entirely  soluble  in  any  of  the  simple  solvents,  and  when  triturated  with  water  yields  a 
turbid  mixture,  but  not  an  emulsion. 

Constituents. — The  older  analyses  by  Braconnot,  Brandes,  and  others  seem  to  indi- 
cate that  the  composition  of  euphorbium  varies  to  some  extent ; the  resin,  readily  soluble 
in  cold  alcohol  and  possessing  an  extremely  burning  taste,  varied  between  37  and  44  per 
cent.;  Fliickiger  (1868)  obtained  38  per  cent,  of  it,  and  Hlasiwetz  (1867)  ascertained  its 
composition  to  be  C,0H16O2.  This  resin  is  amorphous,  imparts  to  boiling  water  its  acrid 
and  bitter  taste,  and,  according  to  Sommer  (1859),  does  not  yield  umbelliferon.  The 
sparingly  soluble,  crystallizable  resin  of  Bonastre  and  others  was  named  eupliorbon  by 
Fliickiger,  who  obtained  22  per  cent,  and  gave  it  the  formula  C13H220.  It  is  soluble  in 
ether,  benzene,  benzin,  amylic  alcohol,  chloroform,  acetone,  glacial  acetic  acid,  and  hot  alco- 
hol, but  requires  about  60  parts  of  alcohol  for  solution  at  the  ordinary  temperature. 
When  the  last  traces  of  the  acrid  resin  have  been  destroyed  by  boiling  in  a weak  solution 
of  potassium  permanganate  it  is  entirely  tasteless.  If  its  alcoholic  solution  is  allowed  to 
evaporate  until  it  forms  a thin  film,  and  this  is  moistened  with  sulphuric  acid,  the  slow 
addition  of  a little  strong  nitric  acid  produces  a fine  violet  color — a reaction  which  is  also 
observed  with  lactucerin.  Braconnot  (1808)  observed  the  presence  of  malic  acid  in 
euphorbium.  Fliickiger  obtained  12  per  cent,  of  malates , chiefly  of  calcium  and  sodium, 
10  per  cent,  of  mineral  compounds , and  18  per  cent,  of  gum , which  is  precipitated  by  lead 
acetate,  also  by  sodium  silicate  and  borax. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Euphorbium  is  an  ingredient  in  a few  plasters.  Tinc- 
tura  euphorbii  is  made  with  1 part  of  euphorbium  and  10  parts  of  alcohol. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  juice  of  the  fresh  and  the  powder  of  the  dried  plant  act 
upon  the  skin  and  mucous  membranes  as  acrid  irritants,  and  internally  cause  per- 
sistent vomiting  and  purging  and  even  gangrene  of  the  bowels.  Although  euphorbium 
was  anciently  and  even  in  comparatively  modern  times  used  as  a drastic  purgative  in 
dropsy , yet  the  extreme  harshness  of  its  operation  led  to  its  being  associated  with  milder 
drugs  for  the  same  purpose,  and  at  the  present  day  it  is  never  given  internally.  It  was 
also  at  one  time  applied  as  a local  stimulant  in  certain  cases  of  paralysis,  and  more  re- 
cently as  a sternutatory  when  mitigated  with  inert  or  mild  powders.  As  a local  irritant 
it  has  been  used  in  the  same  cases  for  which  mezereon  is  appropriate,  and  particularly  in 
plasters  intended  to  prolong  suppuration,  as  in  cases  of  obstinate  sciatica.  In  ointments 
it  was  applied  to  ulcers  maintained  by  necrosed  bone.  Plasters  containing  it  have  also 
been  employed  in  the  treatment  of  chronic  swellings  of  the  joints  induced  by  scrofula, 
gout,  or  rheumatism. 

Euphorbia  piluifera  was  brought  into  notice  first  in  Australia,  and  then  in  the  United 
States,  about  1883.  In  1884,  Baker  lauded  it  in  bronchitis  and  asthma  ; Matheson  stated 
that  its  popular  name  was  “ asthma  herb,”  and  that  it  was  tonic  and  antispasmodic ; and 
Wragge  testified  that  in  asthma  “its  effects  are  almost  magical.”  In  1885,  Tison  em- 
ployed tincture  of  this  euphorbia  in  eleven  cases  of  dyspnoea  with  or  without  emphysema 
or  bronchitis,  and  all  were  benefited  by  its  use.  He  regarded  the  nervous  element  of  the 
disease  as  the  one  principally  affected  by  it.  (See  also  Therap.  Gaz.,  xi.  171.)  In  the 
same  year  Marsset  used  it  in  experiments  upon  animals,  from  which  he  inferred  that  it 
first  quickens  and  then  retards  the  respiration  and  the  pulse ; he  also  concluded,  after 
clinical  experience,  that  it  affords  marked  relief  in  asthma.  He  observed  that  it  is  apt  to 
occasion  nausea  and  pain  in  the  stomach,  probably  through  its  acrid  qualities.  It  has 
been  used  in  a decoction  made  with  two  quarts  of  water  and  half  an  ounce  of  the  dried 
plant,  simmered  to  one  quart,  of  which  the  dose  was  a wineglassful  three  or  four  times  a 
day.  The  watery  (or  the  hydro-alcoholic)  extract  has  been  given  in  2-grain  doses.  A 
tincture,  one  part  of  which  represents  five  parts  of  the  dried  plant,  has  been  recom- 


EUPHRASIA.— EXTRACTA  ET  EXTRACT  A FLU  ID  A. 


635 


mended  in  doses  of  10-20  drops.  E.  helioscopia  furnishes  a juice  which  is  used  to  remove 
warts. 

Euphorbium  Drummondii , an  Australian  plant  which  destroys  many  cattle,  is  said  to 
furnish  an  anaesthetic  alkaloid  to  which  the  name  drumine  has  been  applied,  but  its 
action  and  its  very  existence  have  been  questioned  ( Therap . Gaz .,  xi.  107 ; ib.,  463). 

EUPHRASIA.— Eyebright. 

Euphraise , Fr. ; Augentrost , G. ; Eu/rasia , Sp. 

Euphrasia  officinalis,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Scrophulariaceae. 

Description. — An  annual  plant  about  15  Cm.  (6  inches)  high,  indigenous  in  the 
greater  part  of  Europe,  and  in  North  America  to  the  White  Mountains  and  from  the 
Great  Lakes  northward.  It  has  opposite,  shortly  petiolate  or  sessile,  ovate  or  lanceolate 
leaves,  which  are  about  8 Mm.  (£  inch)  long,  and  have  four  or  five  teeth  on  each  side  ; the 
upper  (floral)  leaves  are  alternate,  nearly  rhomboid,  and  bristly-toothed.  The  axillary 
flowers  have  a four-cleft  calyx  and  a white  or  lilac  two-lipped  corolla  with  a yellow  throat, 
four  ascending  stamens,  and  an  oblong,  many-ovuled  ovary.  When  fresh,  the  plant  has 
a faint  balsamic  odor  which  is  almost  completely  lost  on  drying ; the  taste  is  somewhat 
saline,  bitter,  and  scarcely  astringent. 

Constituents. — Examined  by  J.  B.  Enz  (1859),  the  fresh  plant  was  found  to  contain 
62  per  cent,  of  moisture  and  10.8  per  cent,  of  cellulose,  the  remainder  being  tannin,  a little 
volatile  oil,  an  acrid  and  bitter  principle,  several  organic  acids,  mannit,  glucose,  and  other 
common  principles.  The  tannin  precipitates  ferric  salts  dark-green,  and  lead  salts  of  a 
bright-green  color. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  name  “ euphrasia,”  signifying  cheerfulness,  was  anciently 
as  well  as  in  more  recent  times  given  to  this  plant,  which  was  supposed  to  render  the 
vision  clearer  and  to  cure  various  inflammatory  affections  of  the  eyes.  Its  English  name, 
eyebright , may  be  due  to  this  circumstance,  but  some  maintain  that  its  use  in  such  dis- 
orders was  prompted  by  the  doctrine  of  signatures,  for  a yellow  spot  upon  its  flower 
suggests  the  pupil  of  the  eye.  Its  utility,  when  applied  as  a fomentation  or  decoction  in 
ophthalmia , was  probably  due  to  its  astringency.  E.  odontites  in  vinous  infusion  is  men- 
tioned by  Pliny  as  a remedy  for  the  toothache  (Hist.  Nat.,  xxvii.  84).  Strumpf 
( Arzneimittellelire , 1848,  i.  487)  says  of  E.  officinalis  “ that  at  one  time  it  was  held  to  have 
a specific  action  upon  the  brain  and  eyes  and  the  abdominal  viscera,  especially  the  liver ; 

. . . . that  it  cured  syncope,  strengthened  the  understanding,  cleared  the  complexion, 
etc.;”  and  at  another  to  cure  all  catarrhal  affections  of  the  eyes,  ears,  lungs,  etc.  It  was 
employed  internally  and  externally.  Still  earlier,  in  1826,  Richter  (Arzneimittel.,  i.  417) 
gave  a similar  account  of  it,  adding  that  a metallic  salt  was  sometimes  added  to  the 
infusion  of  the  herb.  In  1847,  Griffith  (Med.  Botany , p.  517)  related  the  same  facts  in 
part,  and  adds  that  the  medicine  is  no  longer  employed ; and  Cazin  (Plantes  Medicinales 
indigenes , 1858,  p.  401)  after  a similar  review  blames  a belief  in  its  virtues  as  being 
derived  chiefly  from  a faith  in  the  dead  doctrine  of  signatures.  Recently  it  has  been 
alleged  that  a few  drops  of  tincture  of  euphrasia  at  the  beginning  of  an  acute  coryza , 
and  repeated  at  intervals  of  two  or  three  hours,  will  abort  the  attack  (Garland,  Boston 
Med.  and  Burg.  Jour.,  Nov.  1889,  p.  453).  The  fact  that  a forming  coryza  may  be 
aborted  by  nnmerous  agents  (e.g.  alcohol,  ammonia,  camphor,  tannin,  etc.)  should  prevent 
one’s  having  much  faith  in  the  alleged  special  virtues  of  euphrasia. 

EXTRACTA  ET  EXTRACTA  FLUIDA. — Extracts  and 
Fluid  or  Liquid  Extracts. 

Extraits  et  Extraits  liqnides,  Fr. ; Extrakte  und  Fliissige  Extrakte,  G. ; Estratto , Estratto 
liquido,  It. ; Extractos,  Sp. 

Extracts  are  preparations  which  are  obtained  by  evaporating  a solution  of  the  medicinal 
principles  of  drugs  to  the  consistence  of  a soft  solid  or  to  dryness.  The  solution  of  the 
medicinal  principles  either  exists  as  such  in  crude  drugs  while  yet  in  a fresh  and  juicy 
state,  and  may  then  be  obtained  by  expression,  or  it  may  be  prepared  by  treating  the 
dried  and  powdered  drugs  with  suitable  menstrua,  such  as  water,  water  and  alcohol, 
alcohol,  or  ether  until  deprived  of  all  active  constituents.  These  two  methods  give  rise 
to  different  classes  of  extracts,  which  are  distinguished  by  specific  names,  such  as 
inspissated  juices,  aqueous , alcoholic,  hydro-alcoholic , and  ethereal  extracts  j the  last  named 


636 


EXTRACT  A ET  EXTRACT  A FLU  ID  A. 


class  contains  all  the  fixed  and  volatile  oils,  together  with  resin  which  may  have  been 
present  in  the  drug,  and  with  few  exceptions  remain  liquid  after  complete  evaporation  of 
the  solvent : they  possess  the  property  of  self-preservation,  and  are  known  in  the  Phar- 
macopoeia as  Oleoresinse  (which  see). 

Inspissated  Juices. — The  United  States  Pharmacopoeia  recognizes  only  one  inspis- 
sated juice  (Ext.  taraxaci),  while  those  of  the  narcotic  herbs  which  are  not  indigenous  or 
grow  spontaneously  only  in  a few  localities  have  very  properly  not  been  admitted.  The 
expressed  juices  of  herbs  contain,  besides  the  medical  principles,  chlorophyll  in  suspen- 
sion and  albuminous  and  mucilaginous  matters  in  solution.  Of  these  the  chlorophyll 
separates  on  heating  the  liquid  to  about  55°  C.  (130°  F.)  and  the  albuminoids  are 
coagulated  between  this  temperature  and  about  94°  C.  (200°  F.)  ; The  solubility  of  the 
gum  and  mucilage  is  not  affected  by  the  heat  but  these  principles  may  be  removed  by 
alcohol,  in  which  they  are  insoluble.  The  different  pharmacopoeias  have  adopted  different 
processes  for  the  purification  of  the  expressed  juices:  that  of  Germany  endeavors  to 
obtain  the  extracts  as  free  as  possible  from  inert  principles,  and  purifies  by  heat  and  by 
alcohol,  as  recommended  by  C.  F.  Mohr  ( Pharmacopoeia  Universalis , 1845)  ; the  French 
Codex,  like  the  1870  U.  S.  P.,  directs  the  juice  to  be  coagulated  by  heat,  but  the  gum  is 
not  precipitated ; and  that  of  Great  Britain  aims  only  at  the  separation  of  the  albumen, 
and  reincorporates  with  the  extract  the  previously-removed  chlorophyll.  The  inspissated 
juices  of  the  latter  are  of  a green  color  and  of  a firm  pilular  consistence;  those  of  the 
other  pharmacopoeias  are  brown  in  color,  and  cannot  be  made  into  pills  without  the  addi- 
tion of  some  vegetable  powder.  Provided  the  material  has  been  of  the  same  quality,  an 
inspissated  juice  made  according  to  the  German  Pharmacopoeia  ought  to  be  stronger,  and 
if  made  by  the  British  Pharmacopoeia  weaker,  than  is  obtainable  by  the  French  (and 
former  United  States)  process. 

To  obtain  the  juice,  the  vegetable  should  have  been  recently  collected,  well  washed 
with  water  to  free  it  from  extraneous  matter,  and  the  superfluous  water  drained  off.  It 
is  then  cut  into  pieces  of  convenient  size  and  bruised  in  a stone  mortar,  by  means  of  a 
pestle  made  of  hard  wood,  until  reduced  to  a smooth  pulpy  mass.  If  not  succulent  enough, 
a little  water  may  be  sprinkled  over  it  during  this  operation.  The  mass  is  then  enclosed 
in  canvas  bags,  strongly  expressed,  again  mixed  with  water,  and  expressed  a second  time, 
whereby  that  portion  of  the  juice  remaining  in  the  pulp  is  obtained.  The  mixed  liquids 
are  then  heated  to  80°  C.  (176°  F.)  to  coagulate  the  albumen,  which  encloses  also  the 
chlorophyll,  and  is  removed  by  straining,  after  which  the  clear  liquid  is  evaporated  to  the 
proper  consistence  (F.  Cod. ).  The  German  Pharmacopoeia  directs  the  strained  liquor  to 
be  evaporated  until  reduced  in  weight  to  10  per  cent,  of  the  weight  of  the  plant,  when 
an  equal  weight  of  alcohol  is  added  to  precipitate  gummy  matter ; the  mixture  is  set 
aside  until  the  insoluble  matter  has  subsided ; it  is  then  decanted  and  filtered,  and  the 
retained  liquid  obtained  by  the  addition  of  a little  diluted  alcohol ; the  alcohol  is  partly 
distilled  off  and  the  remaining  liquor  evaporated  as  before,  The  British  Pharmacopoeia 
directs  the  heating  of  the  expressed  juice  to  130°  F.,  whereby  the  chlorophyll  separates 
from  the  liquid  and  is  collected  upon  a calico  strainer.  The  strained  liquor  is  now  heated 
to  200°  F.  to  coagulate  the  albumen,  again  strained,  and  evaporated  to  the  consistence  of 
a thin  syrup,  to  which  the  chlorophyll,  previously  separated,  is  added  and  well  mixed  by 
assiduous  stirring,  Evaporation  to  the  proper  consistence  will  complete  the  extract.  If 
the  part  of  the  plant  employed  does  not  contain  chlorophyll,  its  removal  and  subsequent 
readmixture  are  obviously  omitted  from  the  process,  and  if  starch  is  present  some  of  it 
will  pass  through  the  press-cloth,  and  the  expressed  juice  must  be  allowed  to  subside  and 
then  be  decanted  from  the  deposited  fecula.  The  U.  S.  process  for  extract  of  taraxacum 
is  faulty  in  not  removing  the  albumen. 

Aqueous  Extracts  were  formerly  usually  made  by  boiling  the  drug  with  water, 
expressing  the  watery  solution,  and  evaporating.  The  pharmacopoeias  have  very  properly 
discontinued  this  process  almost  altogether,  and  have  in  nearly  all  cases  substituted  infu- 
sion or  percolation  with  water.  Prolonged  boiling  with  water  will  often  render  inert  con- 
stituents (starch,  etc.)  soluble  in  water,  and  thus  increase  the  amount  of  extract,  to  the 
injury  of  its  quality.  In  other  cases,  however,  it  may  not  only  injure  the  quality,  but 
also  decrease  the  yield  of  the  extract,  as  in  the  case  of  krameria,  the  tannin  of  which  is 
either  partly  destroyed  or  becomes  insoluble  through  combination  with  other  constituents. 
Some  pharmacopoeias  exhaust  the  comminuted  drugs  by  hot  infusion  or  digestion,  but 
cold  infusion  or  percolation  appears  to  produce  not  only  unobjectionable  aqueous  extracts, 
but  they  are  in  some  cases  at  least  superior  in  appearance  to  those  made  by  hot  infusion 
or  digestion.  When  infusion  is  directed,  the  properly-comminuted  drug  is  mixed  with 


EXTRACT  A ET  EXT R ACTA  FLUID  A. 


637 


sufficient  water  to  cover  it,  and  in  case  the  material  be  light,  it  is  submerged  by  putting  a 
perforated  cover  with  sufficient  weights  upon  it  to  keep  it  covered  by  the  water.  After 
due  maceration  or  digestion  a concentrated  solution  of  the  principles  is  at  once  obtained 
by  expression,  and  a second  maceration  with  a small  amount  of  water  and  expression  will 
practically  exhaust  the  drug.  If  a large  quantity  of  water  be  used  in  the  beginning,  a 
second  maceration  may  be  avoided  or  becomes  unprofitable,  but  a longer-continued  evap- 
oration is  necessary. 

Only  two  extracts  are  prepared  with  water  containing  acetic  acid  or  ammonia,  which 
chemicals  are  ordered  in  a fixed  proportion  to  the  drug,  the  extraction  being  finished  with 
water,  used  merely  for  the  purpose  of  recovering  a percolate  equal  to  the  amount  of  men- 
struum first  employed.  (For  the  proper  treatment  of  the  material  by  displacing  with  an 
aqueous  menstruum  we  refer  to  the  remarks  on  Percolation.)  The  menstruum  used  is — 

Water  for  Aloe,  Gentiana,  Haematoxylon,  Krameria,  Opium,  Quassia ; 

Water  and  acetic  acid  for  Colchici  radix  ; and 

Water  and  ammonia  for  Glycyrrhiza. 

Alcoholic  Extracts. — Whether  made  with  strong  or  diluted  alcohol,  the  powdered 
material  is  most  conveniently  exhausted  by  percolation.  In  all  cases  where  alcohol  or 
diluted  alcohol  is  directed  in  the  beginning,  the  same  menstruum  is  now  ordered  until 
exhaustion  is  accomplished.  But  for  some  extracts  a stronger  and  a diluted  alcohol  are 
directed ; in  such  cases  the  former  is  always  used  first,  and  by  the  addition  of  the  latter 
an  amount  of  percolate  obtained  equal  in  volume  to  that  of  the  stronger  alcohol  em- 
ployed, and  usually  more  than  sufficient  to  practically  exhaust  the  drug.  It  is  obvious 
that  the  tinctures  obtained  in  this  manner  must  be  of  uniform  alcoholic  strength  from 
beginning  to  end,  which  fact  renders  a separate  treatment  of  different  fractions  unneces- 
sary ; the  alcohol  is  distilled  off  from  the  whole  of  the  tincture,  and  the  residue  left  is 
then  evaporated  to  the  proper  consistence.  Yet  for  several  extracts  it  has  been  deemed 
proper  to  distil  or  evaporate  only  the  weak  tincture,  and  after  mixing  the  residue  with 
the  percolate  first  obtained — rather  less  than  one-third  of  the  whole  amount — to  evap- 
orate to  the  proper  consistence.  Such  a precaution  is  particularly  commendable  for 
physostigma,  belladonna,  and  hyoscyamus.  Spontaneous  evaporation  of  the  most  con- 
centrated portion  of  the  percolate  has  been  retained  only  for  rhubarb.  Only  one  extract, 
ergot,  is  directed  to  be  made  from  the  fluid  extract,  yet  when  the  processes  for  several 
other  extracts  and  the  corresponding  fluid  extracts  are  examined,  there  would  appear  to 
be  as  little  objection  to  prepare  the  former  from  the  latter  as  with  the  important  prepar- 
ation mentioned. 

The  menstruum  used  for  this  class  of  extracts,  as  a rule,  has  been  judiciously  selected, 
and  leaves  but  little  occasion  for  criticism  : 

Alcohol  for  Aconitum,  Cannabis  Indica,  Cimicifuga,  Iris,  Jalap,  Physostigma. 

Alcohol  4 volumes , water  1 volume , for  Podophyllum,  Bheum. 

AlcoholZ  volumes,  water  1 volume,  for  Cinchona,  Leptandra,Nux  Vomica  (with  acetic  acid). 

Alcohol  2 volumes , water  1 volume , for  Belladonnae  foliae,  Digitalis,  Euonymus,  llyos- 
cyamus. 

Diluted  Alcohol , for  Arnicae  radix,  Colocynthis,  Conium  (with  acetic  acid),  Ergot  (with 
acetic  acid),  Stramonii  semen,  Juglans. 

Alcohol  1 volume,  water  2\  volumes , for  Uva  Ursi. 

Ethereal  Extracts. — All  the  ethereal  extracts  of  the  United  States  Pharmacopoeia 
will  be  found  under  Oleoresin^e,  where  also  the  necessary  apparatuses  and  operations 
are  described.  Ext.  mezerei  aethereum,  Br.  P.,  is  the  ethereal  extract  of  an  alcoholic 
extract,  the  latter  being  prepared  from  the  drug  and  afterward  exhausted  by  ether. 

Fluid  or  Liquid  Extracts,  in  the  meaning  of  the  United  States,  British,  and  German 
Pharmacopoeias,  are  permanent  concentrated  solutions  of  vegetable  drugs,  made  of  such 
a strength  that,  in  the  United  States,  1 Cc.  contains  the  medicinal  principles  and  repre- 
sents the  virtues  of  1 Gm.  of  the  drug.  Prior  to  1880  the  pharmacopoeial  strength  was 
1 troy  ounce  of  drug  to  1 fluidounce  of  the  fluid  extract.  The  present  Pharmacopoeia 
strength  is  based  upon  the  relation  of  the  metric  measures  of  weight  and  capacity,  so 
that  any  weight  of  a given  drug  is  to  be  converted  into  a fluid  extract  having  the  bulk 
of  the  same  weight  of  water  at  its  maximum  density ; or,  in  other  words,  a Gm.  of  the 
drug  is  to  be  represented  by  1 Cc.  of  the  fluid  extract.  The  Pharmacopoeia  omits  to 
state  the  temperature  at  which  the  finished  preparation  is  to  be  measured ; it  is  obvious, 
however,  that  the  fluid  extract  should  in  all  cases  be  cooled  and  measured  at  or  near  15° 
C.  (59°  F.),  which  is  the  standard  temperature  adopted  for  taking  specific  gravity.  The  re- 
lation of  the  present  and  former  fluid  extracts  is  shown  at  a glance  by  the  following  table : 


638 


EXTRACTA  ET  EXTRACTA  FLUID  A. 


100  troyounces  of  drug  yield  3110.3  Cc.  = 105.25  U.  S.  1890;  2952.4  Cc.  or  100  U.  S.  1870. 
100  ounces  av.  “ “ 2834.9  “ = 95.94  “ “ 2691.1  “ 91.15  ’ “ 

100  Gm.  “ “ 100.0  “ = 3.38  “ “ 95.15“  3.22  “ “ 

It  will  be  observed  that  100  ounces  avoirdupois  of  a drug  will  practically  make  6 pints 
or  96  fluidounces  of  fluid  extract,  the  actual  difference  as  compared  with  the  pharma- 
copceial  requirements  being  about  half  a fluidrachm  ; or  for  20  fluidpunces  of  the  present 
fluid  extracts  only  19  troyounces,  not  20  of  drug  will  be  required. 

The  liquid  extracts  of  former  pharmacopoeias  of  Continental  Europe,  which  are  still 
occasionally  described  under  their  older  official  title,  Mettago , were  solutions  of  extracts 
in  water,  made  in  proportions  of  3,  or  sometimes  2,  parts  of  the  former  to  1 of  the  latter ; 
they  can  be  kept  unaltered  for  a short  time  only,  and  are  best  prepared  extemporaneously. 
The  liquid  extracts  of  the  British  Pharmacopoeia  are  of  the  same  strength  as  those  of 
the  TJ.  S.  P.  (1  oz.  avoir,  to  1 fl.  oz.  Imperial),  except  that  of  male  fern,  which  is  an 
oleoresin,  and  those  of  cinchona,  glycyrrhiza,  opium,  and  pareira. 

For  the  first  time  in  the  history  of  German  pharmacy  fluid  extracts  have  been  granted 
official  recognition  ; the  Germ.  Pharm.  of  1890  gives  directions  for  preparing  4 fluid 
extracts  (condurango,  frangula,  ergota,  hydrastis)  by  a plan  almost  identical  with  the 
general  directions  laid  down  in  the  U.  S.  Ph.  The  strength  of  the  G.  Ph.  fluid  extracts 
is  weight  for  weight,  or  100  Gm.  of  drug  must  yield  100  Gm.  of  finished  product. 

All  the  pharmacopoeial  fluid  extracts  are  directed  to  be  prepared  by  percolation,  and, 
as  with  the  extracts,  a menstruum  uniform  in  alcoholic  strength  is  employed  during  the 
process  of  exhaustion.  This  statement  requires  to  be  qualified  in  this,  that  when  glycerin 
is  used  with  the  first  portion  of  the  menstruum  percolation  is  continued  and  finished  with 
the  same  alcoholic  liquid,  but  not  mixed  with  glycerin.  As  has  been  customary  for  these 
preparations,  a portion  of  the  strongest  percolate  is  reserved  and  the  weaker  percolate  is 
directed  to  be  evaporated  to  a soft  extract,  which  is  dissolved  in  the  reserved  portion,  the 
requisite  measure  being  made  up  with  the  initial  menstruum  containing  no  glycerin.  By 
evaporating  the  weak  tincture  to  a soft  extract  most  of  the  water  is  also  expelled,  and  the 
comparatively  small  portion  remaining  with  the  extract  will  occasion  but  a slight  change 
in  the  menstruum  of  the  reserved  portion,  this  menstruum  being  at  the  same  time  the 
most  suitable  for  dissolving  the  extractive  matter,  and  its  alcoholic  strength  being  not 
changed  by  the  subsequent  addition  of  some  of  the  original  menstruum.  Special  author- 
ity is  given  by  the  Pharmacopoeia  to  employ,  where  it  may  be  applicable,  the  process  of 
re-percolation,  described  below,  without  change  of  the  initial  menstruum. 

For  the  pharmacopoeial  extract  and  fluid  extract  of  the  same  drug  the  menstruum  is 
usually  alike.  The  exceptions  are  aconite,  arnica  root,  colchicum  root,  cinchona,  gen- 
tian, krameria,  and  quassia;  in  the  first  named  alcohol  and  water  are  used  in  place  of 
alcohol,  in  arnica  root  a mixture  of  3 volumes  alcohol  and  1 volume  water  in  place  of 
diluted  alcohol ; in  colchicum  root  alcohol  and  water  take  the  place  of  water  and  acetic 
acid;  in  cinchona  glycerin  is  used  in  place  of  water  to  insure  stability  of  the  fluid  pre- 
paration, and  in  the  three  last  named  a hydro-alcoholic  menstruum  is  necessary  to  pre- 
vent fermentation. 

The  menstruum  for  exhausting  the  drugs  is  as  follows : 

Alcohol  for  Pul  vis  aromaticus,  Buchu,  Calamus,  Cannabis  indica,  Capsicum,  Cimici- 
fuga,  Cubeba,  Cusso,  Gelsemium,  Grindelia,  Iris,  Lupulinum,  Mezereum,  Sabina,  Verat- 
trum  viride,  Xanthoxylum,  Zingiber. 

Alcohol  4 volumes , water  1 volume , for  Belladonnse  radix,  Eriodictyon,  Podophyllum, 
Bheum,  Serpentaria. 

Alcohol  3 volumes , water  1 volume , for  Aconitum,  Arnicae  radix,  Calumba,  Eucalyptus. 
Guarana,  Ipecacuanha,  Leptandra,  Matico,  Nux  vomica  (with  acetic  acid),  Sanguinaria 
(with  acetic  acid),  Scilla,  Stramonii  semen,  Valeriana,  Viburnum  opulus,  Viburnum 
prunifolium. 

Alcohol  2 volumes , water  1 volume , for  Aurantii  Amari  cortex,  Chirata,  Colchici  radix, 
Qolchici  semen,  Digitalis,  Hyoscyamus,  Menispernum,  Phytolaccae  radix. 

Diluted  Alcohol , for  Asclepias,  Chimaphila,  Coca,  Conium  (with  acetic  acid),  Conval- 
laria,  Cypripedium,  Dulcamara,  Ergota  (with  acetic  acid),  Eupatorium,  Gentiana,  Lappa, 
Lobelia,  Pilocarpus,  Bhamnus  Purshiana,  Rumex,  Scoparius,  Scutellaria,  Senna,  Spigelia, 
Stillingia,  Taraxacum. 

Alcohol  5 volumes , water  8 volumes , for  Frangula. 

Alcohol  1 volume , water  2 volumes , for  Quassia,  Sarsaparilla. 

Alcohol  4 volumes , glycerin  1 volume , followed  hy  alcohol  4 volumes , water  1 volume , for 
Cinchona  Calisaya. 


EXTRACT  A ET  EXTRACT  A FLUID  A. 


639 


Alcohol  3 volumes , glycerin  1 volume,  followed  by  alcohol ’,  for  Gossypium. 

Alcohol  72  volumes , water  18  volumes , glycerin  10  volumes , for  Pareira. 

Alcohol  65  volumes , water  25  volumes , glycerin  10  volumes , for  Apocynuin. 

Alcohol  6 volumes , water  3 volumes , glycerin  1 volume , for  Aspidosperma,  Hydrastis, 

Rubus. 

Diluted  Alcohol  9 volumes , glycerin  1 volume , for  Geranium,  Krameria,  Rhus  glabra, 
Rosa  gallica. 

Alcohol  5 volumes , water  8 volumes , glycerin  1 volume , for  Hamamelis. 

Alcohol  3 volumes , water  6 volumes , glycerin  1 volume , for  Sarsaparilla  (compound  fid. 
ext.). 

Alcohol  2 volumes , water  5 volumes , glycerin  3 volumes , for  Uva  Ursi. 

Alcohol  75  volumes , water  20  volumes , ammonia-water  5 volumes , for  Senega. 

Alcohol  30  volumes , water  65  volumes , ammonia-water  5 volumes , for  Glycyrrhiza. 

Water  2 volumes,  glycerin  \ volume,  followed  by  alcohol  85  volumes , water  15  volumes, 

for  Prunus  Yirginiana. 

Boiling  water  for  Triticum.  Finished  product  contains  about  25  per  cent,  by  volume 
of  alcohol. 

Boiling  water  followed  by  cold  water,  for  Castanea.  Finished  product  contains  10  per 
cent,  by  volume  of  glycerin  and  about  20  per  cent,  by  volume  of  alcohol. 

For  some  time  past  experiments  have  been  going  on  in  the  hands  of  manufacturers 
and  others  with  a view  of  introducing  acetic  acid,  in  place  of  alcoholic  and  hydro- 
alcoholic menstrua,  in  the  preparation  of  fluid  and  solid  extracts.  Results  thus  far  pub- 
lished indicate  that  60  per  cent,  acetic  acid  is  admirably  suited  for  the  exhaustion  of 
certain  drugs,  particularly  those  owing  their  virtue  to  alkaloidal,  aromatic,  and  even 
resinous  principles,  less  menstruum,  as  a rule,  also  being  required  for  complete  exhaus- 
tion. The  fact,  however,  that  acetic-acid  menstruum  has  been  found  to  cause  an  increase 
in  the  percentage  of  extractive  rather  shows  that,  in  some  instances  at  least,  an  increased 
amount  of  inert  matter  is  dissolved  by  the  more  aqueous  menstruum,  since  practically 
no  increase  in  percentage  of  alkaloid  or  active  resinous  matter  has  been  observed  : this 
would  appear  to  be  a drawback  to  the  use  of  the  acid  aqueous  menstruum  ; besides 
which,  the  presence  of  a considerable  quantity  of  acetic  acid  in  the  finished  fluid  extracts 
might  be  objected  to  by  physicians  from  a therapeutical  standpoint.  In  a few  cases, 
notably  of  alkaloidal  and  oleoresinous  as  well  as  the  purely  aromatic  drugs,  superior 
preparations  have  been  obtained  with  acetic-acid  menstruum,  and  the  finished  fluid 
extracts  possessed  a finer  aroma  than  those  made  with  the  official  menstruum.  The  U. 
S.  Pharmacopoeia  has  recognized  the  value  of  acetic  acid  as  a solvent  in  the  manufac- 
ture of  fluid  extracts  by  directing  its  use,  at  least  in  part,  in  the  case  of  nux  vomica 
and  sanguinaria ; no  doubt  continued  favorable  results  will  cause  the  displacement  of 
alcohol  by  acetic  acid  for  a larger  number  of  drugs. 

Preparation. — Fineness  of  Powder.  (For  remarks  on  powdering  consult  the 
article  Pulveres.)  “ The  fineness  of  powder  is  expressed  in  the  Pharmacopoeia  either 
by  descriptive  words  (generally  so  in  the  case  of  brittle  or  easily  pulverizable  sub- 
stances) or  in  terms  expressing  the  number  of  meshes  to  a linear  inch  in  the  sieve 
through  which  the  powder  will  pass.  These  different  forms  of  expression  correspond  to 
each  other  as  follows  : 


A very  fine  powder 
A fine  powder 
A moderately  fine  powder 
A moderately  coarse  powder 
A coarse  powder 


should  pass  through  a sieve  having  80 
or  more  meshes  to  the  linear  inch, 
should  pass  through  a sieve  having  60 
meshes  to  the  linear  inch, 
should  pass  through  a sieve  having  50 
meshes  to  the  linear  inch, 
should  pass  through  a sieve  having  40 
meshes  to  the  linear  inch, 
should  pass  through  a sieve  having  20 
meshes  to  the  linear  inch. 


— No.  80  powder. 
= No.  60  powder. 
= No.  50  powder. 
= No.  40  powder. 
= No.  20  powder 


“ In  certain  cases  powders  of  a different  degree  of  fineness  (e.  g.  No.  30,  No.  12)  are 
directed  to  be  taken.  When  a substance  is  directed  to  be  in  a limited  degree  of  fine- 
ness, as  specified  by  the  number  of  meshes  to  the  linear  inch  in  the  sieve,  not  more 
than  one-fourth  of  the  powder  should  be  able  to  pass  through  a sieve  having  ten  meshes 
more  to  the  linear  inch.” — U.  S. 

Percolation. — “ The  process  of  percolation,  or  displacement,  directed  in  the  Phar- 


640 


EXTRACT  A ET  EXTRACT  A FLUID  A. 


macopoeia,  consists  in  subjecting  a substance  or  a mixture  of  substances,  in  powder,  con- 
tained in  a vessel  called  a percolator,  to  the  solvent  action  of  successive  portions  of  a 
certain  menstruum  in  such  a manner  that  the  liquid,  as  it  traverses  the  powder  in  its 
descent  to  the  recipient,  shall  be  charged  with  the  soluble  portion  of  it,  and  pass  from  the 
percolator  free  from  insoluble  matter. 

“ When  the  process  is  successfully  conducted,  the  first  portion  of  the  liquid  or  perco- 
late passing  through  the  percolator  will  be  nearly  saturated  with  the  soluble  constituents 
of  the  substance  treated  ; and  if  the  quantity  of  menstruum  be  sufficient  for  its  exhaus- 
tion, the  last  portion  of  the  percolate  will  be  destitute  of  color,  odor,  and  taste  other  than 
that  possessed  by  the  menstruum  itself. 

“ The  percolator  most  suitable  for  the  quantities  contemplated  by  the  Pharmacopoeia 
should  be  nearly  cylindrical  or  slightly  conical,  with  a funnel-shaped  termination  at  the 
smaller  end.  The  neck  of  this  funnel  end  should  be  rather  short,  and  should  gradually 
and  regularly  become  narrower  toward  the  orifice,  so  that  a perforated  cork,  bearing  a 
short  glass  tube,  may  be  tightly  wedged  into  it  from  within  until  the  end  of  the  cork  is 
flush  with  its  outer  edge.  The  glass  tube,  which  must  not  protrude  above  the  inner  sur- 
face of  the  cork,  should  extend  from  3 to  4 Cm.  beyond  the  outer  surface  of  the  cork, 
and  should  be  provided  with  a closely-fitting  rubber  tube  at  least  one-fourth  longer  than 
the  percolator  itself,  and  ending  in  another  short  glass  tube,  whereby  the  rubber  tube  may 
be  so  suspended  that  its  orifice  shall  be  above  the  surface  of  the  menstruum  in  the  per- 
colator, a rubber  band  holding  it  in  position. 

“ The  dimensions  of  such  a percolator,  conveniently  holding  500  Gm.  of  powdered 
material,  are  preferably  the  following:  Length  of  body,  36  Cm. ; length  of  neck,  5 Cm. ; 
internal  diameter  at  top,  10  Cm. ; internal  diameter  at  beginning  of  funnel-shaped  end, 

6.5  Cm.;  internal  diameter  of  neck,  12  Mm.,  gradually  reduced  at  the  end  to  10  Mm. 

It  is  best  constructed  of  glass,  but,  unless  so  directed,  may  be  made  of  a different 
material. 

“ The  percolator  is  prepared  for  percolation  by  gently  pressing  a small  tuft  of  cotton 
into  the  space  of  the  neck  above  the  cork,  and  a small  layer  of  clean  and  dry  sand  is  then 
poured  upon  the  surface  of  the  cotton  to  hold  it  in  place. 

“ The  powdered  substance  to  be  percolated  (which  must  be  uniformly  of  the  fineness 
directed  in  the  formula,  and  should  be  perfectly  air-dry  before  it  is  weighed)  is  put  into 
a basin,  the  specified  quantity  of  menstruum  is  poured  on,  and  it  is  thoroughly  stirred 
with  a spatula  or  other  suitable  instrument  until  it  appears  uniformly  moistened.  The 
moist  powder  is  then  passed  through  a coarse  sieve — No.  40  powders  and  those  which  are 
finer  requiring  a No.  20  sieve,  whilst  No.  30  powders  require  a No.  15  sieve  for  this  pur- 
pose. Powders  of  a less  degree  of  fineness  usually  do  not  require  this  additional  treat- 
ment after  the  moistening.  The  moist  powder  is  now  transferred  to  a sheet  of  thick  paper, 
and  the  whole  quantity  poured  from  it  into  the  percolator.  It  is  then  shaken  down  lightly,  < 
and  allowed  to  remain  in  that  condition  for  a period  varying  from  fifteen  minutes  to  f 
several  hours,  unless  otherwise  directed ; after  which  the  powder  is  pressed,  by  the  aid  of 
a plunger  of  suitable  dimensions,  more  or  less  firmly  in  proportion  to  the  character  of 
the  powdered  substance  and  the  alcoholic  strength  of  the  menstruum  ; strongly  alcoholic 
menstrua,  as  a rule,  permitting  firmer  packing  of  the  powder  than  the  weaker.  The  per- 
colator is  now  placed  in  position  for  percolation,  and,  the  rubber  tube  having  been  fast- 
ened at  a suitable  height,  the  surface  of  the  powder  is  covered  by  an  accurately  fitting 
disk  of  filtering-paper  or  other  suitable  material,  and  a sufficient  quantity  of  the  men- 
struum poured  on  through  a funnel  reaching  nearly  to  the  surface  of  the  paper.  If 
these  conditions  are  accurately  observed,  the  menstruum  will  penetrate  the  powder  equally 
until  it  has  passed  into  the  rubber  tube,  and  has  reached  in  this  a height  corresponding 
to  its  level  in  the  percolator,  which  is  now  closely  covered  to  prevent  evaporation.  The 
apparatus  is  then  allowed  to  stand  at  rest  for  the  time  specified  in  the  formula. 

“ To  begin  percolation,  the  rubber  tube  is  lowered  and  its  glass  end  introduced  into  the 
neck  of  the  bottle  previously  marked  for  the  quantity  of  liquid  to  be  percolated  if  the 
percolate  is  to  be  measured,  or  of  a tared  bottle  if  the  percolate  is  to  be  weighed  ; and  by 
raising  or  lowering  this  recipient  the  rapidity  of  percolation  may  be  increased  or  lessened 
as  may  be  desirable,  observing,  however,  that  the  rate  of  percolation,  unless  the  quantity 
of  material  taken  in  operation  is  largely  in  excess  of  the  pharmacopoeial  quantities,  shall 
not  exceed  the  limit  of  ten  to  thirty  drops  in  a minute.  A layer  of  menstruum  must 
constantly  be  maintained  above  the  powder,  so  as  to  prevent  the  access  of  air  to  its  inter- 
stices, until  all  has  been  added  or  the  requisite  quantity  of  percolate  has  been  obtained. 
This  is  conveniently  accomplished,  if  the  space  above  the  powder  will  admit  of  it,  by 


EXTRACT  A ET  EXTRACT  A FLUID  A. 


641 


inverting  a bottle  containing  the  entire  quantity  of  menstruum  over  the  percolator  in 
such  a manner  that  its  mouth  may  dip  beneath  the  surface  of  the  liquid,  the  bottle  being 
of  such  a shape  that  its  shoulder  will  serve  as  a cover  for  the  percolator. 

“ When  the  dregs  of  a tincture  or  of  a similar  preparation  are  to  be  subjected  to  per- 
colation, after  maceration,  with  all  or  with  the  greater  portion  of  the  menstruum  the 
liquid  portion  should  be  drained  off  as  completely  as  possible,  the  solid  portion  packed  in 
a percolator,  as  before  described,  and  the  liquid  poured  on  until  all  has  passed  from  the 
surface,  when  immediately  a sufficient  quantity  of  the  original  menstruum  should  be 
poured  on  to  displace  the  absorbed  liquid,  until  the  prescribed  quantity  has  been  obtained.” 

— U S. 


Fig.  114. 


Percolation  as  recommended  by  the  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia. 

Fig.  114  shows  a style  of  percolator  admirably  adapted  for  the  manufacture  of  fluid  and 
solid  extracts ; it  illustrates  the  process  of  percolation  as  recommended  by  the  U.  S. 
Pharmacopoeia.  The  principle  involved  is  almost  identical  with  that  of  the  well-tube  or 
syphon  percolators  introduced  some  years  ago.  The  liquid  is  made  to  traverse  a long 
column  of  moistened  drug,  thus  insuring  more  thorough  exhaustion  of  the  soluble  matter 
with  less  menstruum  ; every  particle  of  the  mass  can  be  kept  at  uniform  pressure  during 
maceration  by  reason  of  the  column  of  fluid  in  the  tube  on  the  outside  of  the  percolator 
and  the  rate  of  flow  is  completely  under  control  of  the  operator. 

41 


642 


EXTRACT  A ET  EXTRACT  A FLUID  A. 


Although,  with  proper  management,  good  results  may  he  obtained  in  the  preparation 
of  extracts  and  fluid  extracts  by  using  a funnel-shaped  (usually  termed  a conical ) per- 
colator for  exhausting  the  powder,  experience  has  demonstrated  that  the  so-called  cylin- 
drical percolator  is  to  be  preferred,  having  the  shape  described  above,  which  represents 
the  section  of  a long  cone,  and  this  is  terminated  below  either  by  a funnel  or  by  a 
shorter  cone.  The  relative  proportion  of  diameter  to  height  of  powder  is  of  importance, 
since  it  is  evident  that  with  an  increase  of  the  latter  the  same  fraction  of  menstruum 
must  come  into  contact  with  a larger  number  of  particles  of  the  powder. 
Its  height  should  be  four  or  five  times  greater  than  its  mean  diameter. 
The  cover  of  the  percolator  should  not  fit  air-tight,  or,  if  from  the 
volatility  of  the  menstruum,  this  should  be  desirable,  a communication 
should  be  established  by  means  of  a glass  tube  between  the  receiving 
vessel  and  the  top  of  the  percolator  for  the  equalization  of  pressure. 
Gum-cloth  furnishes  a convenient  material  for  an  ordinary  cover. 

In  conducting  a series  of  experiments  on  percolation  Dr.  Squibb 
(1866)  proved,  first,  that  there  is  a sufficient  degree  of  uniformity  of 
results  to  admit  of  the  adoption  of  a model  plan  of  proceeding  applicable 
to  drugs  in  general ; second,  that  the  extract  or  soluble  matter  yielded  to 
the  menstruum  is  not  uniform  in  its  chemical  and  therapeutical  value  as 
obtained  during  the  different  stages  of  the  percolation,  but  diminishes  in 
effective  value  far  more  rapidly  than  the  extract  does  in  weight ; and 
third,  that  this  decrease  in  value  depends  upon  the  difference  in  solubility 
between  the  active  and  inactive  portions  of  the  extract,  and  that  the 
ratio  of  this  decrease  is  about  the  same  for  drugs  in  general,  provided 
the  proper  menstruum  be  used.  Critical  experiments  made  with  seven 
different  drugs  proved  that  the  first  12  fluidounces  of  the  percolate  con- 
tained from  61  to  78  per  cent,  of  the  total  extract  obtainable  from  16 
troyounces  of  a drug  with  3 or  4 pints  of  percolate,  as  directed  by  the 
Pharmacopoeia  of  I860,  and  that  the  first  16  fluidounces  contained  from  71 
to  84  per  cent,  of  the  total  amount  of  extract.  Subsequently  (1869), 
Tin  Percolator  ar  Samuel  Campbell  showed  that  some  drugs  may  be  practically  exhausted 
ranged  for  ’voi-  by  careful  management  on  obtaining  1 fluidounce  for  every  troyounce  of 
atiie  liquids.  the  drUg  used.  This  principle,  however,  is  applicable  to  those  drugs  only 
which  are  rather  heavy,  and  at  the  same  time  are  readily  permeated  by  a menstruum 
in  which  the  active  principles  are  easily  and  freely  soluble,  so  that  complete  exhaustion 
is  attained  without  difficulty.  The  U.  S.  P.  1870  directed  in  most  cases  24  fluidounces 
of  percolate  for  16  troyounces  of  drug,  and  regarded  the  latter  then  as  practically 
exhausted.  The  present  Pharmacopoeia  directs  displacement  to  be  continued  until  the 
drug  is  exhausted — a point  which  may  be  reached  by  careful  manipulation  without  requir- 
ing finally  long-continued  evaporation.  But  while  for  fluid  extracts  the  exhaustion  of  the 
material  is  mostly  left  to  the  good  judgment  of  the  pharmacist,  definite  quantities  of 
percolate  are  usually  directed  for  the  extracts — sufficient  to  exhaust  the  material  com- 
pletely. In  the  light  of  the  experience  cited  above  it  would  seem  that  this  might  like- 
wise have  been  left  to  the  judgment  of  the  experienced  operator. 

When  the  active  principles  possess  a decided  taste  their  gradual  diminution  in  the 
percolate  is  easily  ascertained ; in  other  cases  recourse  may  be  had  to  chemical  tests, 
especially  in  the  presence  of  alkaloids.  The  color  of  the  percolate  alone  is  no  reliable 
criterion  for  its  medicinal  strength,  some  drugs  continuing  to  yield  colored  percolates 
after  the  active  principles  have  been  exhausted,  while  others  still  yield  appreciable 
quantities  of  the  latter  after  most  of  the  coloring  matter  has  been  taken  up.  The 
strength  of  extracts  and  fluid  extracts  depends  solely  on  the  amount  of  the  active  prin- 
ciples, and  not  on  the  total  amount  of  extractive  matter,  obtained. 

For  moistening  the  powder  a definite  quantity  of  menstruum  is  now  directed  which 
experience  has  shown  to  be  most  suitable  ; generally,  this  quantity  is  greater  than  was 
formerly  thought  desirable.  The  manner  of  packing  described  is  the  most  convenient, 
the  pressing  of  the  whole  amount  of  the  powder  in  one  operation  giving  better  and  more 
uniform  results  in  the  hands  of  most  operators  than  if  done  in  fractions.  Ligneous 
material  requires  to  be  very  firmly  packed,  and  when  of  more  loose  cellular  structure  the 
packing  should  be  less  firm,  but  in  all  cases  it  should  be  uniform.  Again,  when  an 
alcoholic  menstruum  is  used  the  packing  must  be  correspondingly  firmer  as  the  menstruum 
is  stronger  in  alcohol.  When  well  packed,  a disk  of  paper  or  muslin  is  spread  upon  the 
surface  and  the  requisite  menstruum  poured  upon  it.  Thus  arranged,  the  material  is 


? 


j 

; 


EXTRACT  A ET  EXTRACTA  FLUID  A. 


643 


permitted  to  macerate  for  2 days,  both  orifices  of  the  percolator  being  securely  closed  to 
prevent  evaporation.  The  time  directed  for  maceration  is  ample,  but  may  be  prolonged 
to  3 or  4 days  without  disadvantage,  or  for  easily-exhausted  drugs  even  shortened.  It 
is  to  be  observed  that  the  powder  is  to  remain  constantly  covered  by  a stratum  of  the 
menstruum ; this  precaution  is  of  imperative  necessity  until  the  powder  has  been 
deprived  of  the  greater  proportion  of  its  active  principles,  and  the  liquid  in  the  percolator 
may  be  more  than  sufficient  to  displace  the  solution  of  the  remainder. 

After  the  exhaustion  of  the  powder  has  been  accomplished  the  absorbed  alcohol  may 
be  recovered  by  distillation  with  steam,  or,  when  this  is  impracticable,  it  may  be  obtained 
by  percolation  with  a weaker  alcohol,  the  alcoholic  strength  being  gradually  reduced  until 
finally  water  is  used  for  pushing  the  last  portions  of  the  percolate  through.  The  more 
mucilaginous  the  material  is,  the  greater  the  caution  which  should  be  exercised  in  this 
decrease  of  the  alcoholic  strength.  The  alcohol  thus  obtained  requires  to  be  rectified, 
and  may  usually  be  deprived  of  its  foreign  odor  by  distillation  with  a small  quantity  of 
potassium  permanganate. 

Re-percolation — or,  as  it  has  been  called  by  Prof.  Diehl,  fractional  percolation — is  a 
process  recommended  by  Dr.  Squibb  in  1866,  and  was  more  recently  somewhat  modified 
with  the  view  of  obtaining  more  uniform  results,  the  object  being  preparation  of  fluid 
extracts  without  the  use  of  heat.  The  process  may  be  briefly  described  as  follows  : 32 
parts  of  powder  are  divided  into  four  equal  portions,  one  of  which  is  moistened,  packed, 
macerated,  and  then  slowly  displaced  until  exhausted.  The  percolate  is  collected  in  frac- 
tions, the  first  6 parts  being  reserved,  and  the  next  fraction  used  for  moistening  the 
second  portion  of  8 parts  of  the  powder,  which  is  afterward  macerated  and  displaced  with 
the  remaining  fractions,  the  weakest  being  used  last.  Of  this  portion  8 parts  of  perco- 
late are  reserved.  The  third  and  fourth  portion  of  8 parts  each  of  the  powder  are  perco- 
lated in  the  same  manner  as  the  second  portion,  and,  finally,  the  4 reserved  percolates  are 
mixed  to  obtain  30  parts  of  fluid  extract.  The  weaker  percolates  from  the  fourth  portion 
are  preserved  for  a subsequent  operation,  when  from  each  portion  of  8 parts  of  powder  8 
parts  of  percolate  are  reserved.  (See  paper  on  “ Fluid  Extracts  by  Re-percolation  ” by 
Dr.  Squibb,  and  “ Report  on  Fluid  Extracts  ” by  Prof.  Diehl,  in  Proc.  Am. 

Phar.  Assoc.,  1878.)  Fig-  116‘ 

While  the  process  of  fractional  percolation  possesses  the  advantage  of  yield- 
ing a perfect  fluid  extract  without  the  use  of  heat,  and  consequently  avoids 
any  possible  injury  from  this  source,  it  also  carries  with  it  the  disadvantage  of 
necessitating  the  keeping  of  a series  of  weak  percolates,  properly  numbered  and 
labelled,  to  be  used  for  the  same  drug  at  a subsequent  operation,  in  the  order 
in  which  they  have  been  collected.  The  process  can  be  made  practically  con- 
tinuous, each  fraction  of  reserve  tincture  being  in  itself  a finished  fluid  extract. 

Sectional  percolation  is  a modification  of  this  process  proposed  by  William 
M.  Thomson  (1883).  The  percolator  is  an  elongated  cone,  which  may  be  taken 
apart  in  sections,  each  section  forming  a percolator,  ending  below  with  a per- 
forated diaphragm  of  the  same  diameter  as  that  of  the  top  portion  of  the  next 
section ; the  powder  to  be  exhausted  is  packed  in  the  different  sections,  and 
the  liquid,  percolating  through  from  above,  as  it  leaves  one  section  is  again 
uniformly  distributed  over  the  powder  contained  in  the  next. 

Another  process  for  the  preparation  of  fluid  extracts  without  the  use  of  heat 
deserves  a passing  notice,  since  from  the  employment  of  a very  powerful  press 
it  is  perhaps  better  adapted  for  the  manufacturer  than  for  the  pharmacist.  It 
was  devised  by  N.  S.  Thomas  (1865),  and  consists  in  moistening  the  ground 
drug  with  a portion  of  the  menstruum,  and  after  sufficient  maceration  express- 
ing the  liquid.  The  operation  of  maceration  and  expressing  is  repeated  several 
times  until  the  proper  quantity  of  fluid  extract  is  obtained.  A very  efficient 
press,  serviceable  for  this  purpose  and  for  other  pharmaceutical  preparations, 
has  been  constructed  by  Mr.  Charles  T.  George  (Proc.  Penna.  Phar.  Assoc., 

1878). 

Percolation  under  Pressure. — The  first  notice  of  percolation  under 
pressure  was  given  by  Count  Real  (Jour,  de  Phar.,  1816,  April),  who  con- 
structed an  apparatus  known  as  Reals  solution-press  or  filter-press , and  which  . Real’s 
consisted  in  a tin  percolator  surmounted  by  a tube  which  could  be  made  15  M.  1 1 ter  press 
(50  feet)  or  more  in  length  ; after  the  fine,  previously-moistened  powder  has  absorbed  all 
the  menstruum  provided  for  its  exhaustion,  the  tube  was  filled  with  water,  and  the  men- 
struum absorbed  by  the  powder  was  thus  forced  out  by  hydrostatic  pressure.  The  incon- 


644 


EXTRACT  A ET  EXTRACT  A FLUID  A. 


venience  of  the  long  water-tube  suggested  its  replacement  by  a column  of  mercury, 
which,  communicating  with  a reservoir,  forced  the  water  through  the  powder.  Semmel- 
bauer  ( Buchner's  Reportorium , 1817,  iii.)  already  conceived  the  idea  of  using  compressed 
air  for  the  same  purpose,  and  a suitable  - apparatus  for- this  purpose  was  constructed  by 
Dr.  Romershausen,  and  is  described  in  Buchn.  Repert .,  1819,  vi.  p.  316.  The  process  was 
subsequently  applied  by  Boullay  {Jour,  de  Phar .,  1833,  June)  to  displacement  under  the 
pressure  of  a low  column  of  liquid,  as  in  the  percolators  at  present  in  use.  The  neces- 
sity of  saturating  the  powder  with  the  menstruum  without  rendering  it  adhesive,  and  of 
firmly  compressing  the  moistened  powder,  was  early  recognized  as  essential  conditions 
for  success.  The  same  principle  of  percolating  under  pressure  applies  to  the  apparatuses 
more  recently  constructed  by  Duffield,  Stearns,  and  others,  in  which  the  air  in  the  re- 
ceiver may  be  rarified  and  that  contained  in  the  percolator  above  the  powder  may  be 
compressed.  The  pressure  percolators  introduced  by  Rosenwasser,  Berry,  Anderson,  and 
Suit  during  the  past  twelve  years  closely  resemble  Real’s  press,  with  this  addition,  that 
the  powder  by  a screw  arrangement  may  be  confined  between  perforated  disks  in  any 
desired  space,  without  the  possibility  of  expansion  on  coming  in  contact  with  the  bulk 
of  the  menstruum  percolating ; the  percolators  are  made  of  tin  or  heavily-tinned  copper 
and  glass.  One  of  the  chief  claims  for  pressure  percolation  is  the  complete  exhaustion 
of  the  drug  with  less  menstruum  than  by  ordinary  methods. 

Evaporation. — Spontaneous  evaporation  at  ordinary  temperatures  of  the  atmosphere 
is  easily  accomplished  with  ethereal  and  similar  volatile  liquids,  but  alcoholic  tinctures,  in 
order  to  avoid  a too-prolonged  contact  with  air,  require  a somewhat  elevated  temperature, 
that  directed  by  the  Pharmacopoeia  being  usually  about  50°  C.  (122°  F.).  Where  a higher 
temperature  exerts  no  injurious  influence  upon  the  important  constituents,  a water-bath 
is  most  convenient  for  the  purpose ; 
and  since  the  evaporating  liquid  will 
always  remain  several  degrees  below 
the  boiling-point  of  water,  even 
though  the  water  in  the  bath  may 
be  actively  boiling,  empyreuma  is 
effectually  prevented.  Steam-baths 
will  likewise  be  useful,  provided  the 
arrangements  are  such  that  the  pres- 
sure of  steam  cannot,  or  only  slightly, 
exceed  that  of  the  atmosphere.  Sand-baths  and  other  contrivances  by  which  the  temper* 


Fig.  118. 


Fig.  119. 


The  Prentiss  Alcohol  Reclaimer. 


Fig.  120. 


The  Remington  Still. 


EXTRACT  A ET  EXTRACTA  FLUID  A. 


645 


ature  is  likely  to  rise  above  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  should  be  used  only  with  due  precautions. 
Evaporation  is  most  successful  if  conducted  from  a shallow  dish,  with  a current  of  dry 
air  passing  over  the  surface  of  the  liquid,  which  may  at  the  same  time  be  agitated ; but 
the  use  of  metallic  spatulas  for  stirring  during  evaporation  is  generally  inadmissible  : the 
proper  material  is  porcelain  or  wood.  Various  mechanical  contrivances  have  been  con- 
structed with  the  view  of  saving  the  manual  labor  and  constant  attendance  in  stirring, 
and  they  serve  a good  purpose. 

In  evaporating  a tincture  the  alcohol  will  be  lost  unless  provision  is  made  for  recon- 
densing the  vapor  by  means  of  a distillatory  apparatus. 

For  the  recovery  of  alcohol  in  the  concentration  of  weak  percolates  or  from  the  dregs 
remaining  in  the  percolator  a variety  of  pharmaceutical  stills  have  been  designed.  Figs. 
119,  120,  and  121  represent  the  more  popular  styles;  all  three  can  be  heated  by  means 
of  a gas-  or  oil-stove,  and  in  all  three  the  liquid  to  be  concentrated  as  well  as  the  alcoholic 
vapor  is  not  allowed  to  come  in  contact  with  any 
metal  but  tin.  The  “ Prentiss  Alcohol  Reclaimer,” 

Fig.  119,  is  easily  operated,  condensation  of  the 
alcoholic  vapor  is  well-nigh  complete,  and  the  still  is 
specially  adapted  for  smaller  operations.  The  “ Rem- 
mington  Still,”  Fig.  120,  combines  the  united  condens- 
ing power  of  a series  of  tubes  within  one  refrigerator, 
and  by  the  peculiar  shape  of  the  head  or  dome  recon- 
densation of  the  vapor  in  the  body  of  the  still  is 
reduced  to  a minimum.  The  main  features  of  the 
“Anderson  Still,”  Fig.  121,  are  the  use  of  a broad, 
shallow  dish  from  which  the  alcoholic  vapors  will 
rise  speedily,  owing  to  the  large  extent  of  surface 
exposed,  and,  furthermore,  the  automatic  supply  of 
partially  warmed  water  from  the  condensing  surface 
to  the  water-bath,  thus  obviating  the  necessity  of 
replenishing  the  boiler  from  time  to  time  with  cold  water  in  larger  operations  whereby 
loss  of  time  would  be  incurred. 

In  1889  the  plan  of  concentrating  large  volumes  of  aqueous  solutions  of  extracts  by 
means  of  cold  was  formulated  by  M.  Adrian,  and  put  into  practice  on  a large  scale. 
Following  up  the  suggestions  of  Herrera  (1877),  M.  Adrian  subjects  the  filtered  aqueous 
solutions  to  a temperature  of  — 20°  C.  ( — 4°  F.)  in  an  ammonia-ice  apparatus,  and  thus 
obtains  large  blocks  of  ice,  in  which  the  extractive  solution  is  enveloped,  the  pure  water 
alone  freezing ; these  blocks  of  ice  are  rapidly  converted  into  snow  by  means  of  large 
shaving  machines.  Another  French  pharmacist,  M.  Vee,  prefers  to  convert  the  aqueous 
solution  into  a crystalline  magma  instead  of  solid  blocks  of  ice,  and  accomplishes  this 
by  keeping  the  liquid  in  constant  agitation  during  the  freezing  process.  The  snow-like 
mass  is  placed  in  centrifugal  extractors,  where  about  75  per  cent,  of  water  is  removed. 
The  remaining  solution  is  again  subjected  to  cold  (even  a lower  temperature  than  at 
first),  when  a syrupy  liquid  is  obtained  which  can  readily  be  evaporated  to  a solid 
extract  in  a vacuum  apparatus  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  30°  C.  (86°  F.).  Extracts 
thus  prepared  are  lighter  in  color  than  those  obtained  by  ordinary  vacuum  or  open-air 
evaporation,  form  almost  clear  solutions  with  water,  and  possess  the  odor  and  taste  of 
the  drug  in  a marked  degree.  It  has  been  found  that  all  vegetable  matter  in  solution  is 
retained  in  its  original  condition,  even  the  albumen,  water  alone  being  removed. 

There  can  be  no  doubt  that  this  plan  of  concentration  by  freezing  will  yet  meet  with 
more  extended  application  in  pharmacy,  as  it  has  already  done  in  the  arts. 

In  many  processes  carried  on  in  the  arts  vacuum-stills  are  used  for  the  evaporation 
of  liquids,  the  boiling-point  of  which  is  lowered  in  proportion  as  the  pressure  within  the 
apparatus  is  reduced  to  below  that  of  the  surrounding  atmosphere.  For  operations  on  a 
small  scale,  and  quite  suitable  for  the  requirements  of  the  pharmacist,  the  water-air-pump 
described  by  Dr.  Sprengel  in  1865,  and  known  also  as  Bunsen’s  water-air-pump,  may  be 
used  with  advantage.  It  is  simply  water  descending  in  a perpendicular  tube  which  later- 
ally communicates  with  the  interior  of  the  otherwise  hermetically-closed  vessel  containing 
the  liquid  to  be  evaporated ; the  descending  column  of  water  creates  suction,  the  air  in 
the  apparatus  being  carried  down  with  the  water,  and  thus  causes  a partial  vacuum,  in 
which  the  liquid  evaporates  at  a low  temperature.  The  apparatus  is  well  adapted  for 
rapid  filtration,  washing  of  precipitates,  evaporation,  etc.,  but  provision  may  also  be  made 
for  condensing  the  vapors  and  recovering  the  menstruum. 


Fig.  121. 


The  Anderson  Automatic  Still, 


646 


EXTRACT  A ET  EXTRACT  A FLUID  A. 


Changes  by  Evaporation. — All  plants  contain  one  or  more  principles,  which, 
though  originally  colorless,  are  very  easily  altered  under  the  influence  of  air  and  heat, 
acquiring  a yellow  or  brown  color.  It  is  not  known  whether  the  so-called  colorless  extract*, 
ive  is  alike  in  all  plants,  nor  is  its  composition  known  or  the  nature  of  changes  produced 
under  the  conditions  mentioned,  except  that  the  heat  of  boiling  water  and  the  prolonged 
action  of  oxygen  will  convert  it  ultimately  into  a blackish  insoluble  substance,  to  which 
the  name  apotheme  has  been  given,  and  which  appears  to  be  allied  to  humin.  Extractive 
is  almost  insoluble  in  in  absolute  alcohol  and  ether,  but  dissolves  freely  in  weaker  alcohol 
and  water,  and  is  removed  from  its  solution  by  animal  charcoal  and  aluminum  hydroxide, 
the  more  readily  after  it  has  become  colored  by  oxidation.  It  is  with  difficulty  freed 
from  all  admixtures,  and  the  terms  sweet,  bitter,  acrid,  etc.  extractives  refer  to  the  same 
body  in  a more  or  less  altered  condition,  combined  or  intimately  mixed  with  other  prin- 
ciples to  which  the  peculiar  taste  is  due.  The  injurious  influence  of  air  and  heat  upon 
the  vegetable  juices  is  mainly  confined  to  the  alterations  of  this  extractive,  and  extends 
in  a limited  degree  only  to  the  majority  of  the  well-defined  principles.  Its  effects  have 
often  been  much  overrated,  except  as  regards  the  appearance  of  the  extracts.  The  color 
of  the  different  extracts  and  fluid  extracts  varies  with  the  nature  of  the  drug  from  which 
they  have  been  made,  but  should  never  be  black.  Fluid  extracts  should  preserve  the 
taste  and  also  the  odor  of  the  drug,  except  in  so  far  as  both  may  be  modified  by  the  men- 
struum. The  characteristic  taste,  and  to  some  extent  also  the  odor,  of  the  drug  should 
be  perceived  in  the  extracts,  and  these  should  yield  a nearly  clear  or  moderately  turbid 
solution  with  the  menstruum  used  in  their  preparation.  Not  to  come  up  to  these  require- 
ments is  indicative  of  carelessness,  and  the  presence  of  empyreumatic  products  proves 
the  operation  to  have  been  slovenly. 

Consistence  of  Extracts. — The  Pharmacopoeia  recognizes  two  degrees  of  con- 
sistence— namely,  1,  pilular  consistence  (25  extracts)  ; 2,  dry  (7  extracts).  These 
degrees  are  practically  the  same  as  those  adopted  by  the  German  Pharmacopoeia,  but 
designated  as — 1,  thin  extracts,  of  the  thickness  of  fresh  honey  (mostly  oleoresins)  ; , 

2,  thick  extracts,  which  when  cold  cannot  be  poured  from  a vessel ; and  3,  dry  extracts, 
which  may  be  rubbed  to  powder.  A pilular  consistence  is  practically  unattainable  for 
most  extracts  unless  some  dry  substance  is  added,  like  the  chlorophyll  to  the  inspissated  i 
juices  of  the  British  Pharmacopoeia.  The  nearest  degree  of  consistence  attainable  with 
some  extracts  is  such  that  they  may  be  formed  into  pills,  which,  however,  do  not  retain 
their  globular  shape.  Others,  like  Extr.  gentianae,  taraxaci,  etc.,  are  even  too  soft  for 
that  purpose,  while  some,  like  Extr.  rhei,  etc.,  gradually  become  quite  tough  or  hard.  The 
addition  of  10  per  cent,  of  glycerin  to  some  extracts  is  intended  to  preserve  the  proper 
consistence.  Extracts  which  do  not  contain  any  fixed  oil  or  hygroscopic  constituents  \ 
may  usually  be  reduced  to  powder  when  sufficiently  evaporated  and  cooled.  On  being  j 
warmed  all  extracts  become  softer,  and,  if  pulverulent  at  the  ordinary  temperature, 
acquire  sufficient  pliability  to  be  rolled  into  pills. 

Of  late  years  powdered  extracts  have  come  very  much  into  demand,  and  are  supplied  > 
by  nearly  all  manufacturers : while  their  convenience  in  dispensing  pharmacy  cannot  be 
denied,  it  is  questionable  whether  damage  is  not  done  in  many  cases  by  the  prolonged 
and  high  heat  necessary  to  bring  the  pilular  extract  to  the  proper  condition  for  powder- 
ing, even  with  the  addition  of  diluents.  Some  extracts,  such  as  colocynth,  krameria,  nux 
vomica,  and  opium,  are  readily  brought  to  the  state  of  powder  as  directed  by  the  Phar- 
macopoeia, whilst  in  other  cases  it  is  difficult  to  see  how  drug-millers  can  succeed  in  pro- 
ducing such  fine  powders,  apparently  not  very  hygroscopic  (if  at  all),  unless  high  heat 
and  large  proportions  of  diluent  powder  be  employed. 

According  to  P.  W.  Squire  and  M.  Conroy,  calcined  magnesia  is  the  most  desirable 
absorbent  to  use  in  making  powdered  extracts  : it  should  be  mixed  with  the  soft  extract, 
which  is  then  evaporated  to  dryness  and  powdered.  About  10  per  cent,  of  magnesia  will 
be  found  sufficient  in  most  cases. 

The  abstracts  of  the  Pharmacopoeia  of  1880,  which  have  been  dropped  from  the  present 
edition,  were  powdered  extracts,  but  bore  no  simple  relation  to  the  extracts  proper;  they 
were  intended  to  replace  the  more  bulky  powder  of  the  crude  drug  from  which  they 
were  made,  and  in  strength  corresponded  to  twice  their  weight  of  the  drug.  Eleven 
abstracts  were  recognized  in  the  last  Pharmacopoeia  : Aconite,  belladonna,  conium,  digi- 
talis, hyoscyamus,  ignatia,  jalap,  nux  vomica,  podophyllum,  senega,  and  valerian.  The 
general  plan  for  preparing  them  was  to  make  a fluid  extract  of  the  drug  with  alcohol, 
mix  this  with  some  sugar  of  milk,  dry  by  spontaneous  evaporation  in  a warm  place,  then 


EXTR  A CTXJM  A COXITI. 


647 


Fig.  122. 


add  sufficient  sugar  of  milk  to  bring  the  product  up  to  one-half  the  weight  of  the 
powdered  drug  used,  and  finally  reduce  to  a fine  powder. 

The  powdered  or  dry  narcotic  extract s,  P.  G.,  are  identical  with  those  of  the  Prussian 
Pharmacopoeia  of  1862,  and  are  prepared  by  mixing  4 parts  of  the  extract  with  3 parts 
of  finely-powdered  liquorice-root,  drying  the  mixture  between  40°  and  50°  C.  (104°  and 
122°  F.),  rubbing  the  residue  to  powder  while  warm,  and  adding  sufficient  powdered 
liquorice-root  to  make  8 parts.  These  are  made  for  convenience  in  dispensing  only,  but, 
while  they  are  well  adapted  for  being  added  to  powders,  they  cannot  be  used  in  mixtures, 
owing  to  their  partial  insolubility.  The  use  of  dextrin  in  place  of  liquorice-root,  pre- 
scribed by  the  P.  G.  1872,  has  been  abandoned,  most  of  the  powders  thus  prepared 
being  too  hygroscopic. 

Preservation. — The  consistence  of  extracts  nearly  neutralizes  any  injurious  effect 
which  contact  with  the  atmosphere  might  otherwise  exert,  and  the  most  ordinary  care 
will  therefore  suffice  to  keep  them  unaltered  for  a considerable  time.  The  sprinkling 
upon  the  softer  extracts  of  a small  quantity  of  alcohol  has  been  recommended,  but  this 
is  entirely  unnecessary  for  those  which  are  to  some  degree  hygroscopic,  and  of  little 
permanent  utility  for  those  which  have  a tendency  to  become  tough.  The  difficulty  may 
generally  be  avoided  by  spreading  a few  drops  of  glycerin  over  the  surface,  or, 
as  has  been  proposed,  by  working  into  the  warm  extract  half  its  weight  of 
glycerin  and  dispensing  50  per  cent,  more  than  prescribed.  The  plan  adopted 
by  the  U.  S.  P.  is  that  of  W.  J.  M.  Gordon  (1864),  10  per  cent,  of  glycerin 
being  added  to  extracts  to  keep  them  soft  and  prevent  mouldiness. 

The  ordinary  extracts  are  kept  in  jars  of  queensware,  or,  preferably,  of  por- 
celain or  glass,  with  a cover  of  the  same  material.  Small  quantities  may  be 
kept  in  wide-mouthed  vials  with  a very  narrow  shoulder,  or  in  an  ordinary  tie- 
over  jar  enclosed  in  a tin-box  just  large  enough  to  receive  it  and  provided  with 
a well-fitting  cover  to  prevent  absorption  of  moisture  from  the  atmosphere  or 
evaporation  of  the  water  contained  in  the  extract.  Extracts  are  rarely  liable  to 
mould  unless  they  contain  a considerable  proportion  of  mucilaginous  principles,  and  such 
are  nearly  always  adapted  to  be  brought  to  a dry  condition.  Dry  extracts  are  in  most 
cases  preferably  reduced  to  a granular  or  rather  coarse  powder.  Extracts  which  have 
become  too  soft  should  be  evaporated  to  the  proper  consistence  by  means  of  a water-bath, 
and  those  having  become  hard  and  unmanageable  should  be  softened  by  the  heat  of  a 
water-bath,  when  the  requisite  quantity  of  distilled  water  may  be  incorporated  to  bring 
them  to  the  proper  consistence. 

For  the  preservation  of  fluid  extracts  the  same  precautions  are  required  as  for  the 
preservation  of  most  other  liquid  medicines.  The  bottles  in  which  they  are  kept  should 
be  provided  with  a well-ground  glass  stopper  or  with  a sound  cork  to  prevent  the  slow 
evaporation  of  alcohol,  which  would  occasion  a change  in  the  solvent  power  of  the  men- 
struum ; and  they  should  be  placed  in  a position  where  they  are  exposed  neither  to  the 
direct  sunlight  nor  to  any  great  or  sudden  changes  in  temperature.  It  should  be  remem- 
bered that  perhaps  all  fluid  extracts  are  saturated  solutions  of  some  of  the  principles 
naturally  contained  in  the  drug,  and  that  their  re-solution  in  the  fluid  extract  from  which 
they  may  have  deposited  in  the  cold  can  be  effected  only  very  gradually  at  the  same 
temperature  at  which  they  previously  existed  in  perfect  solution. 

Variation. — By  Mohr’s  process  (see  p.  636)  for  inspissated  narcotic  juices  a num- 
ber of  inert  principles  are  excluded  from  the  extracts ; the  use  of  one  menstruum  in  the 
preparation  of  extracts  from  dry  drugs  excludes  many  inert  constituents.  While  it  is 
known  that  drugs  may  vary  in  their  medicinal  activity  within  rather  considerable  limits, 
few  or  no  analytical  researches  have  been  made  as  to  the  variation  of  the  extracts  pre- 
pared from  such  varying  material  by  a uniform  process.  In  the  near  future  the  progress 
of  science  will  most  likely  require  a standardizing  of  these  preparations,  as  it  has  been 
already  deemed  necessary  for  two  of  the  more  important  ones. 

25  av.  ounces  of  drug  will  yield  24  fluidounces  of  fluid  extract,  practically  correspond- 
ing to  the  official  strength,  as  stated  before. 

Fluid  extracts,  if  properly  made,  will  fairly  represent  the  drugs,  and  necessarily  must 
vary  to  some  extent  in  their  efficacy  ; but  the  variation  should  be  only  within  the  limits 
of  the  variation  which  is  unavoidable  in  the  crude  material. 


EXTRACTUM  ACONITI,  XJ.  S. — Extract  of  Aconite. 

Extractum  aconiti  radicis. — Extract  of  aconite-root , E.  ; Extrait  de  racine  d’aconit,  Fr.; 
Akonitknollen-Extrakt , G.  ; Estratto  di  aconito , Sp.,  It. 


§ 


648 


EXTRACTUM  ACONITI  FLUID UM. 


Preparation. — Aconite,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gra. ; Alcohol,  a sufficient  quantity. 
Moisten  the  powder  with  400  Cc.  of  alcohol,  and  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  glass 
percolator;  then  add  enough  alcohol  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a stratum  above 
it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator,  close  the  lower  orifice,  and 
having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow  the 
percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  alcohol,  until  3000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained, 
or  the  aconite  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  900  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  evaporate  the 
remainder  in  a porcelain  capsule  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  50°  C.  (122°  F.),  to  100 
Cc.,  add  the  reserved  portion,  and  evaporate  at  or  below  the  above-mentioned  tempera- 
ture until  an  extract  of  a pilular  consistence  remains. 

When  operating  upon  1 pound  of  aconite,  the  same  should  be  moistened  with  6 fluid- 
ounces  of  alcohol,  and  of  the  3 pints  of  percolate  to  be  obtained  the  first  15  fluidounces  j 
should  be  set  aside  as  the  reserve  tincture,  which  is  to  be  added  to  the  remainder  after 
the  latter  has  been  evaporated  to  about  1J  fluidounces. 

Alcohol  appears  to  be  the  most  appropriate  menstruum.  The  yield  is  about  20  per  cent. ; 
the  color  yellowish-brown.  It  should  be  remembered  that  this  extract  is  from  six  to  nine 
times  stronger  than  that  of  aconite-leaves,  still  prescribed  by  some  under  the  same  name  ; 
it  is  therefore  advisable  to  designate  in  prescriptions  the  pharmacopoeial  extract  as 
Extract,  aconiti  radicis. 

Extractum  aconiti,  Br.,  is  the  inspissated  juice  of  the  fresh  herb,  and  is  appropriately 
prescribed  as  Extract,  aconiti  herhse.  The  process,  which  will  serve  as  an  example  of  the 
one  adopted  by  that  authority  for  inspissated  narcotic  juices,  is  as  follows: 

Take  of  the  fresh  leaves  and  flowering  tops  of  aconite  112  pounds.  Bruise  in  a stone 
mortar  and  press  out  the  juice  ; heat  it  gradually  to  130°  F.,  and  separate  the  green  col- 
oring matter  by  a calico  filter.  Heat  the  strained  liquor  to  200°  F.  to  coagulate  the 
albumen,  and  again  filter.  Evaporate  the  filtrate  by  a water-bath  to  the  consistence  of 
a thin  syrup  ; then  add  to  it  the  green  coloring  matter  previously  separated,  and,  stirring 
the  whole  together  assiduously,  continue  the  evaporation  at  a temperature  not  exceeding 
140°  F.  until  the  extract  is  of  a suitable  consistence  for  forming  pills. — Br.  The  color 
is  brown-green,  and  the  extract  contains  the  chlorophyll  and  mucilaginous  constituents. 

Uses. — This  extract  of  aconite-root  is  represented  to  be  about  nine  times  as  strong  i 
as  the  preparation  of  the  leaves,  which  were  unofficial  in  the  Pharmacopoeia  of  1870. 

Its  dose  may  be  stated  as  Gm.  0.01-0.02  (gr.  The  dose  of  the  British  extract  is 

Gm.  0.06-0.12  (gr  i-ij). 

EXTRACTUM  ACONITI  FLUIDUM,  77.  #.-Fluid  Extract  of 

Aconite. 

Extractum  aconiti  radicis  fluidum. — Fluid  extract  of  aconite-root,  E. ; Extrait  liquide  de  [ 
racine  d’aconit , Fr. ; Fliissiges  Ahonitknollen  Extrakt,  G. 

Preparation. — Aconite,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm.  ; Alcohol,  Water,  each,  a suffi- 
cient quantity , to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  750  Cc.  of  alcohol  with  250  Cc.  of  water,  and  ( 
having  moistened  the  powder  with  400  Cc.  of  the  mixture,  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical 
glass  percolator  ; then  add  enough  menstruum  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a stratum 
above  it.  When  the  liquid,  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator,  close  the  lower  orifice,  and, 
having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow  the 
percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  menstruum,  using  the  same  proportions  of  alcohol 
and  water  as  before,  until  the  aconite  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  900  Cc.  of  the  per- 
colate, and  evaporate  the  remainder,  in  a porcelain  capsule,  at  a temperature  not  exceed- 
ing 50°  C.  (122°  F.),  to  a soft  extract ; dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add 
enough  menstruum  to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  aconite  should  be  moistened  with  about  10  fluidounces  of  the  menstruum 
(alcohol  3 volumes,  water  1 volume),  and  the  first  22  fluidounces  of  the  percolate  set 
aside  as  reserve  ; the  final  volume  of  finished  product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

The  new  menstruum  ordered  by  the  Pharmacopoeia  appears  equally  as  well  suited  for 
the  complete  exhaustion  of  the  drug  as  pure  alcohol,  directed  in  1880,  and  tartaric  acid 
has  been  entirely  omitted  as  superfluous. 

Uses. — Each  minim  of  this  preparation  represents  about  1 grain  of  aconite-root.  Its 
commencing  dose  should  not  exceed  Gm.  0.06  ( MR  j ),  and  it  is  more  prudent  to  use  only 
half  that  quantity.  This  extract  is  a convenient  addition  to  liniments  intended  to 
relieve  neuralgic  and  rheumatic  pains,  which  should  then  be  applied  with  a brush  or 
mop. 


EXTRACTUM  ALOES.— APOCY XT  FLUIDU3T. 


649 


EXTR ACTUM  ALOES,  77.  S.,  P.  <7.— Extract  of  Aloes. 

Extraction  aloes  socotrinse,  Extraction  aloes  barbadensis , Br.  ; Extrait  d' aloes,  Fr. ; Aloe- 
Extrakt,  G. ; Estratto  di  aloe  acquosa , It. 

Preparation. — Aloes  100  Gm. ; Boiling  Distilled  Water  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  ajoes 
with  the  water  in  a suitable  vessel,  stirring  constantly,  until  the  particles  of  aloes  are 
thoroughly  disintegrated,  and  let  the  mixture  stand  for  twelve  hours;  then  pour  off  the 
clear  liquor,  strain  the  residue,  mix  the  liquids,  and  evaporate  to  dryness  by  means  of  a 
water-  or  steam-bath. — U.  S. 

The  Br.  P.  process  is  identical  with  the  foregoing,  as  also  the  P.  G.  process,  except 
that  in  the  latter  only  half  as  much  water  is  used.  The  U.  S.  P.  allows  the  extract  to 
be  made  from  either  official  variety,  whereas  the  Br.  P.  specifies  both,  and  the  P.  G. 
recognizing  only  Cape  aloes , the  extract  is  of  course  to  be  made  from  it.  Extraction 
aloes  acido-sulphurico  correction  was  obtained  by  diffusing  8 parts  of  the  extract  in  32 
parts  of  distilled  water,  adding  gradually  1 part  of  sulphuric  acid  and  evaporating  to 
dryness. 

The  object  of  using  so  large  a proportion  of  water  is  to  avoid  the  admixture  of  resin, 
for  a concentrated  aqueous  solution  of  aloes  retains  in  solution  the  resin  present,  whereas 
a dilute  solution  again  deposits  it  on  cooling.  Complete  separation  of  resinous  matter  is 
impossible,  and  hence  the  extract  does  not  yield  a perfectly  clear  solution  with  water. 

The  yield  of  dry  extract  varies  from  20-50  per  cent,  according  to  the  variety  of  aloes 
and  care  used  in  manufacture.  When  powdered  the  extract  is  of  a yellowish-brown 
color.  According  to  Tilden  (1870),  an  efficient  extract  of  aloes  is  obtained  by  evaporat- 
ing the  mother-liquor  from  which  aloin  has  been  deposited,  but  this  should  never  be 
substituted  for  the  official  product. 

Uses. — It  may  be  given  for  the  same  purposes  as  the  extract  of  Barbadoes  or  Soco- 
trine  aloes  or  as  aloes  itself,  and  in  the  same  dose — from  Gm.  0.06-0.40  (gr.  j— vj). 

EXTRACTUM  ANTHEMIDIS,  Br.— Extract  of  Chamomile. 

Extraction  chamomillse  Romanse. — Extrait  de  camomille  romaine , Fr. ; Romisch-Kamil- 
len-Extrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Chamomile-Flowers  1 pound;  Oil  of  Chamomile  15  minims; 
Distilled  Water  1 gallon.  Boil  the  chamomile  with  the  water  until  the  volume  is  reduced 
to  one-half,  then  strain,  press,  and  filter.  Evaporate  the  liquor  by  a water-bath  until  the 
extract  is  of  a suitable  consistence  for  forming  pills,  adding  the  oil  of  chamomile  at  the 
end  of  the  process. — Br.  . 

It  is  a dark-brown  extract  having  the  odor  and  bitter  taste  of  chamomile.  It  would 
seem  not  to  be  very  difficult  to  work  out  a better  process,  in  which  the  long  boiling 
should  be  avoided. 

Extractum  anthemidis  fluidum. — Fluid  extract  of  chamomile,  E. — This  is  some- 
times called  for.  Prof.  Procter  (1857)  suggested  exhaustion  with  alcohol  and  diluted 
alcohol,  and  after  evaporation  preservation  by  sugar.  Mr.  Samuel  Campbell  (1870)  sug- 
gested a menstruum  composed  of  2 measures  of  alcohol  and  1 measure  each  of  glycerin 
and  water. 

Uses. — Like  extract  of  gentian,  it  is  a convenient  excipient  for  tonic  medicines  given 
in  the  pilular  form,  especially  quinia  and  the  salts  of  iron.  It  is  by  itself  a mild  stom- 
achic tonic.  Dose , Gm.  0.10-0.60  (gr.  ij — x). 

EXTRACTUM  APOCYNI  FLUIDUM,  77.  S.— Fluid  Extract  of 

Apocynum. 

Fluid  Extract  of  Canadian  Hemp , E. ; Extrait  liquide  de  chanvre  du  Canada , Fr. ; 
Flussiqes  Canadisches  Hanfwurzel-Extrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Apocynum,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Glycerin  100  Cc. ; Alco- 
hol, Water,  each  a sufficient  quantity  to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  glycerin  with  650  Cc. 
of  alcohol  and  250  Cc.  of  water,  and,  having  moistened  the  powder  with  400  Cc.  of  the 
mixture,  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator;  then  add  enough  menstruum  to  satu- 
rate the  powder  and  leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the 
percolator,  close  the  lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for 
forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding,  first,  the 
remainder  of  the  menstruum,  and  afterward  a mixture  of  alcohol  and  water,  made  in  the 


650  EXTR ACTUM  ARNICAS  RA DICIS.—A RNICAJ  RADICIS  FLUID UM. 


proportion  of  650  Cc.  of  alcohol  to  350  Cc.  of  water,  until  the  apocynum  is  exhausted. 
.Reserve  the  first  900  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remainder,  at  a temperature 
not  exceeding  50°  C.  (122°  F.),  to  a soft  extract;  dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion, 
and  add  enough  menstruum  to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  10  fluidounces  of  the  menstruum 
(alcohol  65  volumes,  water  25  volumes,  glycerin  10  volumes),  and  the  first  22  fluidounces 
of  the  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve.  The  final  volume  of  the  finished  product  is  made  up 
to  24  fluidounces  by  addition  of  a mixture  of  alcohol  65  volumes  and  water  35  volumes. 

This  is  one  of  the  new  pharmacopoeial  preparations,  which  has  been  on  the  market  for 
some  years.  Experience  has  shown  that  the  above  menstruum  thoroughly  exhausts  the 
drug  and  yields  a stable  fluid  extract. 

Uses. — This  preparation  represents  fully  the  virtues  of  the  plant  from  which  it  is 
derived.  Duse , 6m.  0.3  to  1 or  2 (npiv-xv-^ss). 

EXTRACTUM  ARNICA  RADICIS,  77.  Extract  of  Arnica-root. 

Extrait  de  racine  d'arnique , Fr.  ; Arnika  Extrakt , Wohlverleih-Extrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Arnica-root,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Diluted  Alcohol,  a suffi- 
cient quantity.  Moisten  the  powder  with  400  Cc.  of  diluted  alcohol,  and  pack  it  firmly 
in  a cylindrical  percolator ; then  add  enough  diluted  alcohol  to  saturate  the  powder  and 
leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator  close  the 
lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  twenty-four  hours. 
Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  diluted  alcohol,  until  the  arnica- 
root  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  900  Cc.  of  the  percolate  ; evaporate  the  remainder 
to  100  Cc.  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  50°  C.  (122°  F.),  mix  the  residue  with  the 
reserved  portion,  and  evaporate  at  or  below  the  above-mentioned  temperature  to  a pilular 
consistence. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  10  fluidounces  of  diluted  alco- 
hol, and  the  first  22  fluidounces  of  the  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve ; the  balance  of  the 
percolate  should  be  evaporated  to  2\  fluidounces  before  it  is  incorporated  with  the  reserve 
portion  for  final  evaporation  to  a pilular  consistence. 

The  yield  is  about  25  or  30  per  cent.  The  extract  is  brown,  of  a slight  odor,  and  has 
the  bitter  and  acrid  taste  of  the  root.  Formerly  extract  of  arnica  was  prepared  from  the 
flowers.  A mixture  of  2 parts  of  alcohol  and  1 of  water  yields  a better  extract,  although 
arnica-root  is  completely  exhausted  by  diluted  alcohol. 

Dose , from  Gm.  0'20— 0.30  (gr.  iij— v). 

EXTRACTUM  ARNICA  RADICIS  FLUIDUM,  77.  8.—  Fluid  Extract 

of  Arnica-root. 

Extrait  liquide  de  racine  d'arnique , Fr. ; Flussiges  Arnika- Extrakt,  G. 

Preparation. — Arnica-root,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Alcohol,  Water,  each  a 
sufficient  quantity  to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  *750  Cc.  of  alcohol  with  250  Cc.  of  water,  and, 
having  moistened  the  powder  with  400  Cc.  of  the  mixture,  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical 
percolator;  then  add  enough  menstruum  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a stratum 
above*  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator,  close  the  lower  orifice, 
and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow 
the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  menstruum,  using  the  same  proportions  of 
alcohol  and  water  as  before,  until  the  arnica-root  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  900  Cc. 
of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remainder,  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  50°  C. 
(122°  F.),  to  a soft  extract;  dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  men- 
struum to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  10  fluidounces  of  the  men- 
struum (alcohol  3 volumes,  water  1 volume),  and  the  first  22  fluidounces  of  the  percolate 
set  aside  as  reserve ; the  final  volume  of  finished  product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluid- 
ounces. 

The  proportion  of  alcohol  appears  unnecessarily  large,  as  arnica-root  can  be  thoroughly 
exhausted  with  a mixture  of  alcohol  2 volumes,  water  1 volume,  the  fluid  extract  keep- 
ing well.  , 

The  fluid  extract  is  of  a reddish-brown  color,  and  has  the  bitter  and  acrid  taste  or 
arnica-root. 

Dose , Gm.  0.60-2  (npx-xxx). 


EXTRA  CTUM  AROMATICUM  FL  UID UM.—A SPID OSPER MA TIS  FLUID  UM.  051 


EXTRACTUM  AROMATICUM  FLUIDUM,  U.  S.— Aromatic  Fluid 

Extract. 

Extrait  liquide  des  aromates.  Fr.  ; Fliissiges  Gewiirzextrakt , G. 

Preparation. — x\romatic  Powder,  1000  Gm. ; Alcohol,  a sufficient  quantity  to 
make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  350  Cc.  of  alcohol,  and  pack  it  firmly  in  a 
cylindrical  percolator ; then  add  enough  alcohol  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a stratum 
above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator  close  the  lower  orifice,  and, 
having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow  the 
percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  alcohol,  until  the  aromatic  powder  is  exhausted. 
Reserve  the  first  850  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remainder  to  a soft  extract ; 
dissolve  this  iD  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  alcohol  to  make  the  fluid  extract 
measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  powder  should  be  moistened  with  about  9 fluidounces  of  alcohol,  and 
the  first  21  fluidounces  of  the  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve  ; the  final  volume  of  the  fin- 
ished product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

This  preparation  is  of  a rich  red-brown  color,  and  has  the  warm  aromatic  taste  of 
the  powder. 

Uses. — This  tincture  of  several  aromatics  is  convenient  as  a flavoring  ingredient  of 
mixtures,  and  may  be  used  alone  to  relieve  flatulent  colic  in  the  dose  of  half  a teaspoonful 
or  more  (Gm.  2).  , 

EXTRACTUM  ASCLEPIADIS  FLUIDUM,  U.  S.— Fluid  Extract  of 

Asclepias. 

Fluid  extract  of  pleurisi y root , E. ; Extrait  liquide  de  racine  d’  asclepiade  tubereuse,  Fr. ; 
Fliissiges  Knollige  Schwalbenwurzel-Extrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Asclepias,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Diluted  Alcohol,  a sufficient 
quantity,  to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  400  Cc.  of  diluted  alcohol,  and  pack 
it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator ; then  add  enough  diluted  alcohol  to  saturate  the 
powder  and  leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  perco- 
lator, close  the  lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty- 
eight  hours.  Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  diluted  alcohol, 
until  the  asclepias  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  900  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evapor- 
ate the  remainder  to  a soft  extract ; dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough 
diluted  alcohol  to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  10  fluidounces  of  diluted 
alcohol,  and  the  first  22  fluidounces  of  the  percolate  set  aside  as  a reserve ; the  final 
volume  of  the  finished  product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

Diluted  alcohol  seems  to  exhaust  pleurisy-root  thoroughly,  and  yields  a stable  pre- 
paration. 

Uses. — This  preparation  is  a convenient  substitute  for  the  decoction  of  A.  tuberosa. 
It  may  be  prescribed  in  doses  of  Gm.  1 to  4 (npxv-^j). 

EXTRACTUM  ASPIDOSPERMATIS  FLUIDUM,  U.  $.— Fluid 

Extract  of  Aspidosperma. 

Fluid  extract  of  quebracho , E. ; Extrait  liquide  de  quebracho , Fr. ; Fliissiges  Quebracho- 
Extrackt , G. 

Preparation. — Aspidosperma,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm.  ; Glycerin,  100  Cc. ; 
Alcohol,  Water,  each,  a sufficient  quantity,  to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  glycerin  with 
600  Cc.  of  alcohol,  and  300  Cc.  of  water,  and,  having  moistened  the  powder  with  400  Cc. 
of  the  mixture,  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator ; then  add  enough  menstruum  to 
saturate  the  powder,  and  leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from 
the  percolator,  close  the  lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate 
for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding,  first  the 
remainder  of  the  menstruum,  and  then  a mixture  of  alcohol  and  water,  made  in  the  pro- 
portion of  200  Cc.  of  alcohol  to  100  Cc.  of  water,  until  the  aspidosperma  is  exhausted. 
Reserve  the  first  800  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remainder,  in  a porcelain 
capsule,  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  50°  C.  (122°  F.),  to  a soft  extract ; dissolve  this 
in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  menstruum  to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure 
1000  Cc. — U.  S. 


652 


EXTRACTUM  A VRANTII  A MARI  FLUIDUM. 


25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  10  fluidounces  of  the 
menstruum  (alcohol  6 volumes,  water  3 volumes,  glycerin  1 volume,  and  the  first  19J 
fluidounces  of  the  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve  ; when  24  fluidounces  of  menstruum 
have  been  used,  percolation  is  to  be  continued  with  a mixture  of  alcohol  2 volumes, 
water  1 volume,  and  the  final  volume  of  the  finished  product  should  be  made  up  to  24 
fluidounces. 

Uses. — This  extract  fully  represents  quebracho,  and  is  more  convenient  than  the 
bulkier  preparations  of  the  drug.  Bose , Gm.  1 to  4 (n^xv  to  33). 

EXTRACTUM  AURANTH  AMARI  FLUIDUM,  U.  S.— Fluid  Extract 

of  Bitter  Orange-peel. 

Extrait  liquide  d'ecorce  d? orange  amere , Fr. ; FliLssiges  Pomeranzenschalen-Extrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Bitter  Orange-peel,  in  No.  40  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Alcohol,  Water, 
each  a sufficient  quantity,  to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  600  Cc.  of  alcohol  with  300  Cc.  of  water, 
and,  having  moistened  the  powder  with  350  Cc.  of  the  mixture,  pack  it  moderately  in  a 
conical  percolator  ; then  add  enough  menstruum  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a 
stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator  close  the  lower  orifice, 
and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow 
the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  menstruum,  until  the  orange-peel  is  ex- 
hausted. Reserve  the  first  800  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remainder  at  a 
temperature  not  exceeding  50°  C.  (122°  F.)  to  a soft  extract ; dissolve  this  in  the 
reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  menstruum  to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000 
Cc.—  U.  S 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  9 fluidounces  of  the  men- 
struum (alcohol  2 volumes,  water  1 volume),  and  the  first  19J  fluidounces  of  the  perco- 
late set  aside  as  reserve  ; the  final  volume  of  the  finished  product  should  be  made  up  to 
24  fluidounces. 

In  preparing  this  fluid  extract  it  should  be  remembered  that  the  orange-peel  should 
consist  almost  exclusively  of  the  glandular  epidermal  layer,  known  in  commerce  as 
Curagoa  orange-peel.  Prepared  of  good  material,  the  preparation  will  be  of  a yellowish- 
brown  color  and  have  the  agreeable  odor  and  pleasantly  bitter  taste  of  the  peel. 

Uses. — A flavoring  agent  especially  suitable  for  bitter  mixtures,  and  also  as  a mild 
stimulant  tonic  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  4 (fgi). 

EXTRACTUM  BELA  LIQUIDUM,  Br ♦ — Liquid  Extract  of  Bael. 

Extrait  liquide  de  bael,  Fr.  ; Fliissiges  Belaextraht , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Bael-fruit  1 pound;  Distilled  Water  12  pints;  Rectified 
Spirit  3 fluidounces.  Macerate  the  bael  for  twelve  hours  in  one-third  of  the  water;  pour 
off  the  clear  liquor  ; repeat  the  maceration  a second  and  third  time  for  1 hour  in  the 
remaining  two-tbirds  of  the  water  ; press  the  marc  and  filter  the  mixed  liquors  through 
flannel.  Evaporate  to  13  fluidounces,  and  when  cold  add  the  rectified  spirit. — Br. 

This  fluid  extract  represents  1 avoirdupois  ounce  of  bael  in  each  fluidounce,  Imperial 
measure.  The  amount  of  spirit  seems  very  small  for  such  a concentrated  liquid. 

Uses. — In  the  dose  of  Gm.  4-8  (fi^j-ii)  it  may  be  given  in  chronic  diarrhoea  and  dysen- 
tery. 

EXTRACTUM  BELLADONNA  FOLIORUM  ALCOHOLICUM,  V.  S. 

— Alcoholic  Extract  of  Belladonna  Leaves. 

Exfractum  belladonnse  alcoholicum , U.  S.  1880. — Extrait  de  belladone  alcoholique , Fr.  ; 
Spirituoses  Tollkirschen-Extrakt , G.  ; Estratto  di  belladonna , It. 

Preparation. — Belladonna-leaves,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Alcohol,  Water, 
each  a sufficient  quantity.  Mix  2000  Cc.  of  alcohol  with  1000  Cc.  of  water,  and,  having 
moistened  the  powder  with  400  Cc.  of  the  mixture,  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  perco- 
lator ; then  add  enough  menstruum  to  saturate  the  powder,  and  leave  a stratum  above  it. 
When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator  close  the  lower  orifice,  and,  having 
closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow  the  percola- 
tion to  proceed,  gradually  adding  menstruum,  until  3000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained  or 
the  belladonna-leaves  are  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  900  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  evapor- 
ate the  remainder  to  100  Cc.  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  50°  C.  (122°  F.),  mix  the 


EXTRA  CTUM  BELLA  DO XX^E  RADICIS  FLU  IDEM. 


653 


residue  with  the.  reserved  portion,  and  evaporate  at  or  below  the  above-mentioned  tem- 
perature to  a pilular  consistence. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  powdered  leaves  should  be  moistened  with  about  10  fluidounces  of 
the  menstruum,  and  the  first  22  fluidounces  of  the  percolate  set  aside  as  a reserve; 
the  balance  of  the  percolate  is  to  be  evaporated  to  2}  fluidounces  before  it  is  incor- 
porated with  the  reserve  portion  for  final  evaporation  to  a pilular  consistence. 

The  yield  is  about  22  per  cent.  The  color  is  greenish-brown  or  brown-green,  and  the 
extract  has  the  characteristic  odor  and  bitter  taste  of  belladonna.  Extractum  bella- 
donna alcoholicum,  Br.,  is  made  from  the  root. 

Extractum  belladonna,  Br.,  P.  G.,  is  the  inspissated  juice  of  fresh  belladonna- 
herb,  prepared  in  accordance  with  the  formulas  outlined  on  page  636.  The  extract 
of  Br.  P.  is  brown-green,  of  P.  G.  brown  ; the  yield  of  the  latter  is  3 to  3£  per  cent. 
On  keeping,  crystals  are  formed  in  the  extract,  which  were  found  by  Atttield  (1862)  to 
be  potassium  chloride  and  nitrate ; according  to  Biltz,  crystals  of  asparagin  are  some- 
times observed. 

Uses. — The  local  applications  of  this,  as  of  all  other  narcotic  extracts,  are  numerous. 
Softened  with  water  or  mixed  with  oil,  it  enters  into  many  magistral  formulas  for  the 
relief  of  local  pains,  especially  those  of  a neuralgic  sort.  A more  elegant  form  for 
this  purpose  is  belladonna  plaster.  The  relaxing  and  anodyne  operation  of  the  extract 
is  used  to  allay  spasm  of  the  muscles  surrounding  canals,  as  the  ureter,  bladder , urethra, 
os  uteri,  vagina,  and  rectum,  when  irritation  causes  their  contraction.  In  these  several 
cases  the  softened  extract  may  be  rubbed  in  as  near  as  possible  to  the  seat  of  pain,  or 
it  may  be  introduced  in  a suppository  into  the  vagina  or  rectum.  When  applied  to  the 
prepuce  in  phimosis  and  in  paraphimosis  it  sometimes  reduces  the  engorgement  and  stric- 
ture. Rubbed  on  the  forehead  or  eyelids,  it  was  formerly  much  used  to  dilate  the  pupil, 
but  the  more  cleanly  solution  of  atropia  is  to  be  preferred.  It  may  be  given  internally 
for  all  the  purposes  to  which  belladonna  is  appropriate.  Extract  of  belladonna  is  of 
uncertain  strength,  and  its  dose  is  therefore  variable.  A quarter  of  a grain  (Gm.  0.01) 
may  be  given  three  times  a day,  and  the  quantity  gradually  increased  until  the  state  of 
the  pupil  denotes  the  degree  of  its  action. 

The  doseoi  the  British  preparation  is  stated  to  be  Gm.  0.016-0.03  (gr.  ?-£),  and  of  the 
German  extract  Gm.  0.06  (gr.  i). 

Belladonna  suppositories  (U.  S.  P.  1870,  and  containing  each  half  a grain  of  the  alco- 
holic extract)  are  efficient  in  allaying  or  removing  pain  in  the  pelvic  viscera,  and 
have  the  advantage  over  opium  suppositories  that  they  do  not  tend  to  constipate. 
They  are  especially  adapted  to  relieve  irritation  in  the  bladder , urethra , ovaries , uterus , 
vagina,  or  rectum,  and  neuralgia  of  these  parts,  and  even  of  the  sciatic  nerve. 

EXTRACTUM  BELLADONNA  RADICIS  FLUIDUM,  V.  Fluid 

Extract  of  Belladonna-root. 

Extractum  belladonnse  jluidum,  U.  S.  1880. — Extrait  liquide  de  racine  de  belladone , 
Fr. ; Fliissiges  Tollkirschenwurzel-Extrakt,  G. 

Preparation. — Belladonna-Root,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Alcohol,  Water,  a suffi- 
cient quantity,  to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  800  Cc.  of  alcohol  with  200  Cc.  of  water,  and,  having 
moistened  the  powder  with  350  Cc.  of  the  mixture,  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator  ; 
then  add  enough  menstruum  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a stratum  above  it. 
When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight,  hours. 
Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  menstruum,  using  the  same  pro- 
portions of  alcohol  and  water  as  before,  until  the  belladonna-root  is  exhausted.  Reserve 
the  first  900  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remainder  at  a temperature  not  exceed- 
ing 50°  C.  (122°  F.)  to  a soft  extract;  dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add 
enough  menstruum  to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

Since  a fluid  extract  of  belladonna-leaves  is  occasionally  employed,  the  above  prepara- 
tion should  always  be  designated  by  the  title  of  the  U.  S.  P.,  given  above.  Care  should 
be  taken  in  the  selection  of  belladonna-root,  which  should  not  be  woody.  This  fluid 
extract  has  a reddish-brown  color. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  powdered  root  should  be  moistened  with  about  9 fluidounces  of  the 
menstruum  (alcohol  4 volumes,  water  1 volume),  and  the  first  22  fluidounces  of  the 
percolate  set  aside  as  reserve ; the  final  volume  of  the  finished  product  should  be  made 
up  to  24  fluidounces. 

The  alcoholic  strength  of  the  menstruum  is  weaker  than  that  of  1880,  but  it  exhausts 


654 


EXTR ACTUM  BUCHU  FL  UID  UM.—CA L TJMB2E. 


the  drug  perfectly  and  yields  a stable  preparation,  hence  the  addition  of  water  is  fully 
justified. 

Uses. — The  dose  of  this  preparation  is  Gm.  0.06-0.12  (ftlj-ij).  It  is  one  of  the  most 
efficient  representatives  of  belladonna. 


EXTRACTUM  BUCHU  FLUIDUM,  77.  S.— Fluid  Extract  of  Buchu. 

Extrait  liquide  de  bucco , Fr. ; Flussiges  Buccoextrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Buchu,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Alcohol,  a sufficient  quantity; 
to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  400  Cc.  of  alcohol,  pack  it  firmly  in  a cyl- 
indrical percolator ; then  add  enough  alcohol  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a stratum 
above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator  close  the  lower  orifice, 
and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow 
the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  alcohol,  until  the  buchu  is  exhausted. 
Reserve  the  first  850  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remainder  to  a soft  extract; 
dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  alcohol  to  make  the  fluid  extract 
measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  10  fluidounces  of  alcohol,  and 
the  first  21  fluidounces  of  the  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve ; the  final  volume  of  the  fin- 
ished product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

We  cannot  see  the  necessity  for  again  introducing  strong  alcohol  as  a menstruum  for 
this  preparation ; experience  has  shown  that  all  the  active  principles  of  buchu  are 
extracted  by  a mixture  of  alcohol  2 volumes  and  water  1 volume,  and  that  the  fluid 
extract  keeps  well.  The  color  of  the  preparation  made  by  the  present  formula  is  a deep 
green,  and  the  odor  and  taste  of  the  drug  well  marked. 

Uses. — This  fluid  extract  is  inferior  to  the  infusion  of  buchu  for  diseases  of  the 
urinary  organs,  but  in  default  of  that  preparation  may  be  prescribed  in  doses  of  Gm. 
1.20-2.00  (npxx-xxx),  very  largely  diluted  with  water. 


EXTRACTUM  CALAMI  FLUIDUM,  77.  8.—  Fluid  Extract  of 

Calamus. 

Extrait  liquide  d'acore  vrai , Fr.  ; Flussiges  Kalmusextrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Calamus,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm. : Alcohol  a sufficient  quan- 
tity ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  350  Cc.  of  alcohol,  and  pack  it  firmly 
in  a cylindrical  percolator;  then  add  enough  alcohol  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a 
stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator  close  the  lower 
orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then 
allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  alcohol,  until  the  calamus  is  exhausted.  j 

Reserve  the  first  900  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remainder  to  a soft  extract ; \ 

dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  alcohol  to  make  the  fluid  extract 
measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S.  j 

25  av.  ozs.  of  powdered  calamus  should  be  moistened  with  about  9 fluidounces  of 
alcohol,  and  the  first  22  fluidounces  of  the  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve ; the  final  volume 
of  the  finished  product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces.  Alcohol  is  decidedly  the 
best  menstruum. 

Made  from  peeled  calamus,  this  fluid  extract  is  of  a brownish-yellow  color,  but  if  pre- 
pared from  the  unpeeled  rhizome,  which  is  now  to  be  used,  it  is  of  a considerably  darker 
tint,  the  characteristic  odor  and  taste  being  likewise  more  prominent.  For  preparing  the 
powder  the  air-dry  calamus  should  be  dried  over  unslaked  lime,  but  not  by  heat,  which 
would  expel  much  of  the  volatile  oil.  In  view  of  the  large  intercellular  passages  con- 
tained in  the  tissue  of  calamus  a powder  passing  through  a No.  40  or  No.  30  sieve  would 
seem  to  be  sufficiently  fine  for  ready  extraction. 

(For  Extractum  calami,  P.  G.,  see  page  368.) 

Uses. — It  may  be  used  in  all  the  cases  for  which  calamus  is  appropriate.  It  is  a 
convenient  form  of  that  drug.  Pose,  Gm.  0.60-1.30  (npx-xx). 

EXTRACTUM  CALUMBH3,  Br.— Extract  of  Calumba. 

Extractum  columbo. — Extrait  de  Colombo , Fr. ; Kolombo-Extraht , G. ; Estratto  di 
Colombo , It. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Calumba-root,  cut  small,  1 pound  ; Proof  Spirit  4 pints. 
Macerate  the  calumba  with  2 pints  of  proof  spirit  for  twelve  hours,  strain  and  press. 


EX  TR  ACTUM  CALUMBJE  FLUIDUM.— CANNABIS  INDIO  RE. 


655 


Macerate  again  with  the  remainder  of  proof  spirit ; strain  and  press  as  before.  Mix 
and  filter  the  liquors,  and  evaporate  them  by  the  heat  of  a water-bath  until  the  extract 
is  of  a suitable  consistence  for  forming  pills. — Br. 

The  present  formula  is  an  improvement  compared  with  that  of  the  Br.  P.  1867,  which 
directed  water  for  exhausting  the  root,  and  yielded  a very  mucilaginous  extract  liable  to 
become  mouldy.  The  French  Codex  uses  alcohol  of  60  per  cent,  volume  for  preparing 
this  extract,  the  yield  being  14  to  16  per  cent. 

Uses. — This  preparation,  which  in  its  action  differs  but  little  from  the  extracts  of 
quassia  and  gentian,  may  be  prescribed  in  the  dose  of  from  Gm.  0.10-0.60  (gr.  ij-x). 


EXTRACTUM  CALUMBiE  FLUIDUM,  77.  8.— Fluid  Extract  of 

Calumba. 

Extrait  liquide  de  Colombo , Fr. ; Fliissiges  Kolomboextrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Calumba,  in  No.  20  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Alcohol,  Water,  each,  a 
sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  750  Cc.  of  alcohol  with  250  Cc.  of  water,  and, 
having  moistened  the  powder  with  300  Cc.  of  the  mixture,  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical 
percolator ; then  add  enough  menstruum  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a stratum 
above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator,  close  the  lower  orifice, 
and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow 
the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  menstruum,  using  the  same  proportions  of 
alcohol  and  water  as  before,  until  the  calumba  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  700  Cc.  of 
the  percolate ; by  means  of  a water-bath,  distil  off  the  alcohol  from  the  remainder,  and 
evaporate  the  residue  to  a soft  extract;  dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add 
enough  menstruum  to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  71  fluidounces  of  the  men- 
struum (alcohol  3 volumes,  water  1 volume)  and  the  first  171  fluidounces  of  the  perco- 
late set  aside  as  reserve ; the  final  volume  of  the  finished  product  should  be  made  up  to 
24  fluidounces. 

The  present  menstruum  is  preferable  to  that  of  1880,  yielding  a fluid  extract  less 
liable  to  precipitate,  but  as  the  Pharmacopoeia  directs  for  tincture  of  calumba  a mixture 
of  alcohol  6 volumes  and  water  4 volumes,  we  think  a menstruum  of  alcohol  2 volumes, 
water  1 volume,  would  answer  equally  well  for  the  fluid  extract. 

The  fluid  extract  is  of  a rich  orange-brown  color,  and  possesses  a strongly  bitter  taste. 

Uses. — It  is  a convenient  substitute  for  the  infusion,  and  may  be  prescribed  in  doses 
of  a fluidrachm  in  Gm.  4 in  Gm.  64  in  fgij)  of  water. 

EXTRACTUM  CANNABIS  INDIC7E,  77.  S.9  Br.— Extract  of  Indian 

Cannabis. 

Extract  of  Indian  hemp , E. ; Extrait  de  chanvre  indien , Fr. ; Indisch-HanfextraJd , G. 

Preparation. — Indian  Cannabis,  in  No.  20  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Alcohol  a sufficient 
quantity.  Moisten  the  powder  with  300  Cc.  of  alcohol,  and  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindri- 
cal percolator ; then  add  enough  alcohol  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a stratum 
above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator  close  the  lower  orifice, 
and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow 
the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  alcohol  until  the  cannabis  is  exhausted.  By 
means  of  a water-bath  distil  off  the  alcohol  from  the  tincture,  and,  having  placed  the 
residue  in  a porcelain  capsule,  evaporate  it  on  a water-bath  to  a pilular  consistence. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  ef  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  7 2 fluidounces  of  alcohol. 

The  process  of  the  Br.  P.  is  practically  identical  with  the  foregoing,  except  that  the 
drug  is  exhausted  by  maceration.  The  yield  is  from  12  to  14  per  cent.  The  extract  is 
of  a blackish-green  color,  and  has  a slight  but  heavy  narcotic  odor  and  a bitter  taste.  It 
should  be  completely  insoluble  in  water,  and  dissolve  in  alcohol,  ether,  chloroform,  and 
oil  of  turpentine  ; its  alcoholic  solution  should  be  precipitated  by  aqueous  solution  of 
potassa  or  soda,  the  resin  being  insoluble  in  alkalies.  Nitric  acid  converts  the  extract 
into  an  orange-red  resin,  which  after  washing  with  water  has  the  color  of  gamboge 
(Procter,  1864).  b 

Uses. — This  extract  varies  so  greatly  in  activity  that  its  dose  cannot  be  definitely 
fixed.  Gm.  0.013-0.017  (4—^  of  a grain)  of  a specimen  not  before  tested  should  be 
given  at  first,  and  the  dose  gradually  increased  until  its  sensible  effects  are  produced. 
For  children  the  dose  should  be  at  least  one-half  less. 


656 


EXTR ACTUM  CANNABIS  INDICjE  FL  UID  UM.~  CA RNIS. 


EXTRACTUM  CANNABIS  INDICiE  FLUIDUM,  V.  S.— Fluid  Extract 

of  Indian  Cannabis. 

Extrait  liquide  de  chanvre  indien , F.  ; Fliissiges  Indisch-Hanfextralct , G. 

Preparation. — Indian  Cannabis,  in  No.  20  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Alcohol  a sufficient 
quantity ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  300  Cc.  of  alcohol  and  pack  it 
firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator ; then  add  enough  alcohol  to  saturate  the  powder  and 
leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator  close  the 
lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours. 
Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  alcohol,  until  the  Indian  can- 
nabis is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  900  Cc.  of  the  percolate ; by  means  of  a water- 
bath  distil  off  the  alcohol  from  the  remainder,  and  evaporate  the  residue  to  a soft  extract; 
dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  alcohol  to  make  the  fluid  extract 
measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  fluidounces  of  alcohol,  and 
the  first  22  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve. 

There  is  scarcely  any  necessity  for  this  preparation,  since  the  extract  of  Indian  can- 
nabis is  readily  soluble  in  alcohol.  The  fluid  extract  is  of  a dark-green  color.  If  prop- 
erly prepared  it  may  be  used  for  the  extemporaneous  preparation  of  the  extract,  and 
this  extract  should  have  the  characteristics  mentioned  under  the  preceding  article. 

Uses. — As  each  minim  represents  a grain  of  Indian  cannabis,  the  fluid  extract  may 
be  given  in  commencing  doses  of  from  Gm.  0.03—0.06  j). 

EXTRACTUM  CAPSICI  FLUIDUM,  U.  S.— Fluid  Extract  of 

Capsicum. 

Fluid  extract  of  red  pepper,  E. ; Extrait  liquide  de  capsique , de  piment  des  jardins,  Fr. ; 
Fliissiges  Spanisch-Pfcfferextraht , G. 

Preparation. — Capsicum,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Alcohol,  a sufficient  quan- 
tity ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  500  Cc.  of  alcohol,  and  pack  it  firmly 
in  a cylindrical  percolator ; then  add  enough  alcohol  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a ! 
stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator  close  the  lower 
orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then 
allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  alcohol,  until  the  capsicum  is  exhausted. 
Reserve  the  first  900  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remainder  to  a soft  extract ; 
dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  alcohol  to  make  the  fluid  extract 
measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  capsicum  should  be  moistened  with  12  fluidounces  of  alcohol  and  the  j 
first  22  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve. 

There  is  likewise  little  need  for  this  preparation,  the  drug  being  already  represented 
by  the  oleoresin  and  the  tincture.  The  fluid  extract  is  of  a rich  brown-red  color,  yields  \ 
a turbid  mixture  with  water,  and  has  the  hot  taste  of  the  drug. 

Dose , Gm.  0.6-0.12  (npi-ij). 

EXTRACTUM  CARNIS.-Extract  of  Meat. 

Exfractum  carnis  Liebig. — Extract  of  beef  E. ; Extrait  de  viande  de  Liebig , Fr. ; Lie- 
big1 s Fleischextrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Extracts  of  meat  have  been  prepared  for  many  years.  Thouvenel 
exhausted  fresh  meat  with  alcohol,  and  Van  Mons  used  the  same  menstruum  for  dry 
meat.  Cadet  de  Gassicourt  recommended  the  meat  to  be  minced,  mixed  with  cold  water, 
the  liquid  expressed,  boiled,  skimmed,  and  evaporated.  In  1854,  Liebig  published  a 
formula  for  preparing  a broth  for  invalids  as  follows : £ pound  of  fresh  meat  is  finely 
chopped  and  macerated  for  one  hour  with  1 pound  of  cold  distilled  water,  to  which  4 drops 
of  hydrochloric  acid  and  from  30  to  60  grains  of  table-salt  are  added.  The  mass  is  then 
displaced  on  a colander,  a little  water  being  added,  until  1 pound  of  percolate  has  been 
obtained.  The  clear  liqnid  has  a red  color  and  contains  the  albuminoids  of  the  meat  in 
solution.  In  1859  the  Bavarian  Pharmacopoeia  adopted  a process  for  extract  of  meat  in 
which  chopped  meat  was  exhausted  with  hot  water,  and  the  expressed  liquid,  carefully 
freed  from  fat  and  albumen,  was  evaporated. 

Since  then  factories  have  been  established  in  different  parts  of  South  America,  Aus- 
tralia, and  the  United  States,  where  cattle  were  abundant  and  cheap.  In  the  majority  of 


EXIT, ACTUM  CARXIS. 


657 


these  establishments  Liebig’s  process  appears  to  be  followed,  perhaps  with  some  slight 
modification.  At  Fray-Bentos,  on  the  river  Uruguay,  where  a factory  was  conducted 
under  the  direction  of  Liebig,  the  extract,  according  to  F.  Muller  (1868),  is  prepared  as 
follows : The  freshly-slaughtered  meat  is  allowed  to  cool  for  twenty-four  hours,  and  then 
ground  into  a pulpy  mass  by  passing  it  between  iron  rollers  furnished  with  small  projec- 
tions. The  pulp  is  stirred  with  water  for  about  an  hour,  strained  through  sieves,  the  fat 
carefully  removed,  and  the  liquid  evaporated  in  steam-pans,  a current  of  air  being  con- 
tinuously passed  over  the  surface.  At  a certain  state  of  concentration  the  liquid  is 
filtered  and  the  evaporation  continued  until  the  extract  is  transferred  to  well-glazed 
stoneware  jars,  which  are  carefully  covered. 

Properties. — Thus  prepared,  extract  of  meat  is  of  a brown  color,  usually  somewhat 
granular,  and  has  a pleasant  odor  suggestive  of  roasted  meat,  and  a characteristic,  dis- 
tinctly saline,  and  faintly  acidulous  taste.  It  is  completely  soluble  in  water,  yielding  a 
clear  solution,  which  on  the  addition  of  a little  table-salt  has  the  flavor  of  beef-broth. 
When  dried  at  the  temperature  of  110°  C.  (230°  F.)  100  parts  of  the  extract  should 
lose  not  over  22  parts  of  moisture,  and  after  incineration  not  less  than  18  parts  of  ashes 
should  be  left,  containing  only  a small  quantity  of  sodium  chloride.  If  100  parts  of  the 
extract  are  digested  with  alcohol,  and  the  liquid  filtered  and  evaporated,  not  less  than  56 
parts  of  extract  should  be  obtained  ( P . G.  1872).  The  figures  given  by  Liebig  himself 
as  indicating  the  limits  of  variation  in  extract  of  meat  prepared  by  his  process  are  for 
moisture  16  to  22  per  cent. ; ash  18  to  22  per  cent.  ; extractive , soluble  in  80  per  cent, 
alcohol,  56  to  66  per  cent.  Niederstadt  (1881)  gives  the  actual  variation  of  the  commer- 
cial Fray-Bentos  extract  as  follows:  moisture  13.2-29.2;  nitrogen  2.6-9.04;  organic 
matter,  49.5-68.7  ; ash  10.5-21.4  per  cent. ; the  ash  contains  potassa  30.1-32.5  and  phos- 
phoric acid  36.5—38.0  per  cent.  The  absence  of  sodium  chloride  in  meat  juice  is  proven 
by  precipitating  first  the  salts  of  inosic  acid  by  an  equal  bulk  of  alcohol,  and  then  add- 
ing 5 volumes  of  alcohol,  when  the  mixture  will  separate  into  two  layers,  the  lower  of 
which,  about  one-twentieth  of  the  whole,  on  evaporation  at  a low  temperature  will  yield 
prisms  of  the  potassium  chloride  containing  not  a trace  of  sodium  salt. 

The  amount  of  nitrogen  in  extract  of  meat  is  sometimes  as  low  as  2.6  per  cent.,  but 
if  made  of  good  beef  usually  between  9 and  10  per  cent.,  and  depends  chiefly  on  the 
presence  of  creatin , creatinin , ( jlohufin , and  urea.  The  solution  in  water  of  the  extract 
usually  yields  a slight  precipitate  with  tannin,  which,  according  to  Eichhorn  (1867),  is 
due  to  the  presence  of  a nitrogenated  body  which  somewhat  resembles  gelatin,  but  is  not 
identical  with  it.  Werner  (1868),  however,  states  that,  if  in  preparing  the  extract  the 
temperature  of  60°  C.  (140°  F.)  be  not  exceeded,  the  aqueous  solution  will  give  no  reac- 
tion for  gelatin.  It  would  seem,  therefore,  best  to  evaporate  the  liquid  under  reduced 
pressure.  It  is  well  known,  however,  that  some  extracts  of  meat  which  have  appeared 
in  our  market  have  contained  large  quantities  of  gelatin.  (See  paper  by  A.  E.  Ebert  in 
Proc.  Amer.  Phar.  Assoc.,  1871,  p.  512.) 

Other  extracts  of  meat , liquid  as  well  as  solid,  have  from  time  to  time  claimed  atten- 
tion, some  of  the  former  containing  the  soluble  albuminous  compounds  or  the  ground 
flesh-fibres.  In  1873,  Prof  Leube  recommended  an  extract  in  which  the  meat-fibrin  was 
emulsionized  by  heating  meat,  free  from  fat  and  bones  and  chopped  fine,  in  very  diluted 
hydrochloric  acid  until  almost  completely  disintegrated.  At  the  present  time  peptones 
are  used  in  preference  to  this  preparation.  (See  Pepsinum.) 

Action  and  Uses. — It  appears  to  be  too  often  overlooked  that  Liebig,  to  whom  is 
due  the  vogue  of  beef-tea  during  the  last  quarter  of  a century,  expressly  declared  it  to 
be  incapable  of  promoting  nutrition,  and  that  it  is  to  be  classed  as  nervous  food,  along 
with  tea,  coffee,  and  alcohol,  and  even  as  inferior  to  the  last — a judgment  which  has  been 
expressed  in  almost  identical  words  by  Virchow,  and  emphasized  by  Sibson,  Brunton, 
Loffen,  and  many  others.  The  small  proportion  of  creatin  beef-tea  may  contain  does  not 
materially  affect  this  estimate.  Its  2\  per  cent,  of  albumen,  according  to  some  modes  of 
preparation,  is  altogether  eliminated  in  Liebig’s  extract,  and  the  gelatin  almost  com- 
pletely, leaving  the  organic  alkaloids  and  acids  and  the  salts.  That  these  act  as  tem- 
porary nervous  stimulants  there  can  be  no  doubt  ; but  the  popular  impression  is  that 
beef-tea  is  a substitute  for  food,  and  hence  it  often  happens  that  the  patient  is  plied  with 
it  inordinately,  with  the  result  of  provoking  vomiting  or  diarrhoea.  That  it  often  occa- 
sions the  latter  when  habitually  used  as  a substitute  for  food,  to  repair  fatigue,  or  to 
fortify  the  body  or  mind  for  an  unusual  exertion,  is  probably  within  the  experience  of 
many  physicians.  Sibson,  alluding  to  its  use  in  diarrhoea,  and  especially  in  that  of 
typhoid  fever,  declares  that  he  looks  “ upon  this  fluid  in  the  light  of  a poison  in  such 


658 


EXTRACTUM  CASTANEJE  FLUID UM. 


cases,”  and  strongly  condemns  its  use  in  Bright’s  disease  as  burdening  the  already  over- 
taxed kidneys  with  the  duty  of  eliminating  this  non-assimilable  matter.  It  is,  however, 
rather  indirectly  than  directly  iujurious  by  being  used  as  a nutrient — a function  which  it 
has  no  claim  to  perform.  On  the  other  hand,  it  has  not  that  poisonous  operation  which 
science,  “ falsely  so  called,”  attributed  to  it  through  Kemmerich  in  1868.  He  arrived  at 
the  singular  conclusion  that  concentrated  cold  extract  of  horse-flesh  injected  into  the 
stomach  of  dogs  in  small  doses  increases  the  number  and  strength  of  the  heart’s  pulsa- 
tions, but  that  in  large  doses  it  kills,  with  all  the  appearances  of  cardiac  paralysis.  This 
remarkable  result  he  attributed  to  the  potash  salts  of  the  meat  ! In  1880,  Mr.  Master- 
man  ( Lancet , Oct.  1880,  p.  562)  showed  that  beef-tea  is  analogous  to  urine,  except  that 
it  contains  less  urea  and  uric  acid,  and  that  it  is  merely  a stimulant ; and  Hr.  Neale 
( Practitioner , xxvii.  343)  calls  attention  to  the  fact  that  in  several  countries,  including 
South  America  and  Eastern  Asia,  the  urine  of  young  persons  is  used  as  a medicinal  stim- 
ulant. Some  investigators  of  the  action  of  beef-tea  (e.  g.  Mays,  Trans.  Coll.  Pht/s., 
Pliilad..  3d  Ser.,  viii.  259)  have  claimed  more  positive  nutritive  qualities  for  this  prepar- 
ation ; but  while  they  have  illustrated  anew  its  stimulant  action,  they  do  not  appear  to 
have  proved  its  nutritive  power. 

The  stimulant  and  non-nutritious  qualities  of  beef-tea  render  it  peculiarly  fitted  for  the 
treatment  of  the  greater  number  of  acute  febrile  diseases.  Nature  protests  against  the 
use  of  food  in  them  by  the  repugnance  of  the  patients  to  taking  it  and  by  the  aggrava- 
tion of  the  fever  which  it  induces.  During  the  augment  and  acme  of  these  affections 
food  in  a literal  sense  heaps  fuel  on  the  fire,  but  in  many  of  them  the  animal  mechanism 
must  be  kept  in  such  active  movement  as  to  enable  it  to  resist  the  disintegrating  tenden- 
cies of  the  disease,  and  afterward  to  throw  off  the  effete  accumulations.  This  beef-tea 
aids  in  accomplishing,  and  in  the  same  manner  as  alcohol.  When  that  end  is  attained, 
and  when  the  fever  has  declined,  the  preparation  holds  only  a secondary  place  in  the 
treatment,  the  first  being  occupied  by  true  nutrients,  which  are  better  prepared  by  culi-  ; 
nary  skill  than  by  chemical  science.  No  more  serious  mistake  can  be  made  in  the  treat-  ; 
ment  of  acute  diseases,  when  the  febrile  stage  has  passed  by,  than  to  continue  to  administer 
beef-tea,  soups  and  jellies.  By  such  agents  the  patient  may  literally  die  of  inanition  while 
being  gorged  with  what  erroneously  passes  for  food.  Feeding  by  the  rectum  with  beef-tea 
is,  if  possible,  of  even  more  temporary  utility  than  when  this  preparation  is  given  by  the 
stomach.  The  following  receipt  for  preparing  beef-tea  differs  somewhat  from  that  of  Liebig 
given  above : To  a pound  of  lean  beef  scraped  to  shreds,  add  as  much  cold  water  as  will 
barely  cover  it ; let  it  stand  for  an  hour,  occasionally  stirring  it.  Put  it  on  the  fire  and 
heat  it  gently  until  it  begins  to  give  off  vapor,  or  for  about  twenty  minutes.  Strain  off  the 
liquor  and  press  the  beef.  A more  nutritious  preparation,  which  is  really  a broth,  may  be 
prepared  as  follows  : Cut  a pound  of  lean  beef  into  small  pieces  and  place  them  with  a pint  j 
of  cold  water  in  a bowl.  When  it  has  stood  for  at  least  an  hour  transfer  the  contents  to 
a pitcher,  covering  it  securely.  Set  the  pitcher  in  a sauce-pan  of  water  and  let  it  boil  for 
three  or  four  hours,  and  until  the  beef  is  reduced  to  a pulp.  When  cold  remove  the  fat  li 
from  the  surface  of  the  liquid,  and  strain  off  the  latter,  pressing  the  beef.  Beef  tea  should 
be  avoided  in  albuminuria , it  increases  the  albuminous  contents  of  the  urine.  Pancreatic 
emulsion  is  more  efficient.  It  is  highly  recommended  in  various  affections  of  the  stomach 
when  the  mucous  coating  require  to  be  protected  from  irritation,  in  convalescence  from 
typhus,  etc.,  and  may  be  combined  with  broth  or  with  Liebig’s  extract  of  meat,  or  milk 
and  powdered  cracker  (hard  biscuit)  may  be  used  alternately  with  it.  It  has  been 
employed  with  marked  advantage  in  cases  of  fatty  diarrhoea  due  to  obstruction  of  the 
pancreatic  secretion  and  in  the  wasting  diseases  of  children  induced  by  artificial  feeding. 

It  also  promotes  the  digestion  and  assimilation  of  cod-liver  oil. 

EXTRACTUM  CASTANET  FLUIDUM,  77.  S.— Fluid  Extract  of 

Castanea. 

Fluid  extract  of  chestnut-leaves , E.  ; Extrait  liquide  de  feuilles  de  chdtaignier,  Fr. ; Fliis- 
siges  Kastanienblatter-Extraht , G. 

Preparation. — Castanea,  in  No.  30  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Glycerin,  100  Cc. ; Alcohol, 
Water,  each  a sufficient  quantity  to  make  1000  Cc. 

Pour  5000  Cc.  of  boiling  water  upon  the  powder,  allow  it  to  macerate  for  two  hours, 
then  express  the  liquid,  transfer  the  residue  to  a percolator,  and  pour  water  upon  it  until 
the  powder  is  exhausted.  Evaporate  the  united  liquids,  on  a water-bath,  to  2000  Cc., 
allow  this  to  cool,  and  add  600  Cc.  of  alcohol.  When  the  insoluble  matter  has  subsided, 
separate  the  clear  liquid,  filter  the  remainder,  evaporate  the  united  liquids  to  700  Cc., 


EXTR ACTUM  CHIMA PH1LJE  FL UID  UM.—CHTRA  T2E  FLUIDUM. 


659 


allow  to  cool,  and  add  the  glycerin,  and  enough  alcohol  to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure 
1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  powdered  chestnut-leaves  should  be  macerated  with  8 pints  of  boiling 
water  for  two  hours,  and  after  expression  the  residue  is  exhausted  with  cold  water  by 
percolation.  The  united  liquids  should  be  evaporated  to  3 pints,  and  when  cool  mixed 
with  141  fluidounces  of  alcohol ; after  filtration  the  clear  liquid  should  be  evaporated  to 
17  fluidounces,  to  which  are  added  2?  fluidounces  of  glycerin  and  41  fluidounces  of 
alcohol. 

It  is  well  known  that  hot  water  extracts  the  virtues  of  chestnut-leaves.  The  tough- 
ness of  the  fibro-vascular  tissue  (veins)  of  the  latter  render  their  reduction  to  a powder 
of  the  required  fineness  a matter  of  difficulty.  This  is  practically  recognized  by  the 
Pharmacopoeia  in  ordering  the  partial  extraction  of  the  leaves  by  hot  maceration  and 
expression ; a repetition  of  this  manipulation  with  one-half  the  amount  of  hot  water 
would  have  virtually  exhausted  the  drug,  provided  a sufficiently  powerful  press  be  used. 
By  clarification  with  T30  volume  of  alcohol  albuminous  and  mucilaginous  matters  are 
removed.  The  finished  fluid  extract  is  preserved  by  alcohol  equal  to  nearly  one-fourth 
its  measure ; formerly,  it  was  customary  to  use  sugar  for  this  purpose.  The  fluid 
extract  is  reddish-brown,  and  of  a slight  odor  and  of  a strongly  but  pleasantly  astringent 
taste.  Mr.  A Bobbins  states  that  there  is  no  special  difficulty  in  exhausting  chestnut- 
leaves  by  percolation  if  a weak  alcoholic  menstruum  be  used,  the  most  suitable  being 
composed  of  alcohol  1 part  and  water  2 parts,  the  first  800  Cc.  of  this  mixture  being  used 
with  200  Cc.  of  glycerin. 

Dose,  Gm.  4-8  (f^j-ij). 

EXTRAOTUM  CHIMAPHILA  FLUIDUM,  U.  S.— Fluid  Extract  of 

Chimaphila. 

Extrait  liquide  de  pyrole  ombellee,  Fr. ; Fliissiges  Doldenmangold-Extrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Chimaphila,  in  No.  30  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Diluted  Alcohol  a suffi- 
cient quantity,  to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  400  Cc.  of  diluted  alcohol 
and  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator  ; then  add  enough  menstruum  to  saturate 
the  powder  and  leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  per- 
colator close  the  lower  orifice,  and  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for 
forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  diluted  alco- 
hol, until  the  chimaphila  is  exhausted.  Deserve  the  first  700  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and 
evaporate  the  remainder  to  a soft  extract ; dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion  and  add 
enough  diluted  alcohol  to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  10  fluidounces  of  the  men- 
struum, and  the  first  171  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve;  the  final  volume 
of  the  finished  product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

Experience  has  shown  that  the  addition  of  about  10  per  cent,  of  glycerin  improves 
the  stability  of  the  fluid  extract ; the  same  result  might  be  obtained  by  using  a mixture 
of  alcohol  2 volumes  and  water  1 volume. 

Uses. — This  preparation  is  less  eligible  than  the  decoction.  Dose , Gm.  4 (f^j.) 
largely  diluted,  three  or  four  times  a day. 

EXTRAOTUM  CHIRATA  FLUIDUM,  U.  £.-Fluid  Extract  of 

Ohirata. 

Extrait  liquide  de  chirette,  Fr  ; Fliissiges  Chiretfaextralct,  G. 

Preparation. — Chirata,  in  No.  30  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Alcohol,  Water,  each  a suffi- 
cient quantity,  to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  600  Cc.  of  alcohol  with  300  Cc.  of  water,  and, 
having  moistened  the  powder  with  350  Cc.  of  the  mixture,  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical 
percolator;  then  add  enough  menstruum  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a stratum 
above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator,  close  the  lower  orifice, 
and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow 
the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  menstruum,  using  the  same  proportions  of 
alcohol  and  water  as  before,  until  the  chirata  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  850  Cc.  of 
the  percolate;  by  means  of  a water-bath,  distil  off  the  alcohol  from  the  remainder,  and 
evaporate  the  residue  to  a soft  extract ; dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add 
enough  menstruum  to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  9 fluidounces  of  menstruum 


660 


EXTB ACTUM  CIMICIFUGA.— CINCHON JE. 


(alcohol  2 volumes,  water  1 volume),  and  the  first  21  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside 
as  reserve  ; the  final  volume  of  the  finished  product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

The  fluid  extract  is  reddish-brown,  and  has  the  intensely  bitter  taste  of  the  drug.  The 
bitter  principles  of  chirata  being  soluble  in  water,  a more  aqueous  menstruum  is  indicated 
for  this  drug.  Although  precipitation  takes  place  after  some  time,  the  active  principles 
are  probably  not  affected  thereby. 

Dose , about  6m.  1.30  (n^xx). 

EXTRACTUM  CIMICIFUGA,  77.  Extract  of  Cimicifuga. 

Extract  of  black  cohosh , E.  ; Extrait  d'actee  a grappes , Fr. ; Cimicifuga-Extrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Cimicifuga,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Alcohol,  a sufficient  quan- 
tity. Moisten  the  powder  with  250  Cc.  of  alcohol,  and  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical 
percolator  ; then  add  enough  alcohol  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a stratum  above 
it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator,  close  the  lower  orifice,  and, 
having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow  the 
percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  alcohol,  until  the  cimicifuga  is  exhausted. 

By  means  of  a water-bath,  distil  off  the  alcohol  from  the  tincture,  and  evaporate  the 
residue  in  a porcelain  capsule,  on  a water-bath,  to  a pilular  consistence. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  cimicifuga  should  be  moistened  with  about  6 fluidounces  of  alcohol. 

Although  alcohol  is  directed  by  the  pharmacopoeia,  we  think  that  a mixture  of  alcohol 
4 volumes  and  water  1 volume  will  exhaust  the  drug  equally  well.  The  extract  is  almost 
black  in  color,  and  contains  all  the  resinous  constituents  of  the  root.  The  yield  is  about 
15  per  cent. 

Uses. — The  advantages  of  this  preparation  over  the  fluid  extract  of  cimicifuga  are 
not  apparent.  Dose,  Gm.  0.1  to  0.50  (gr.  iss  to  vij). 

EXTRACTUM  CIMICIFUGA  FLUIDUM,  77.  S.— Fluid  Extract  of 

Cimicifuga. 

Extraction  cimicifuga  liquidum , Br. — Fluid  extract  of  black  cohosh , E. ; Extrait  liquide  1 
d grappes,  Fr. ; Fliissiges  Cimicifuga-Extrakt,  G. 

Preparation. — Cimicifuga,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm.  ; Alcohol  a sufficient  quan- 
tity ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  250  Cc.  of  alcohol,  and  pack  it  in  a 
cylindrical  percolator;  then  add  enough  alcohol  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a stra-  -I 
turn  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator,  close  the  lower 
orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  * 
allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  alcohol,  until  the  cimicifuga  is  exhausted.  i 
Reserve  the  first  900  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remainder  to  a soft  extract ; \ 

dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  alcohol  to  make  the  fluid  extract  « 

measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  cimicifuga  should  be  moistened  with  6 fluidounces  of  alcohol,  and  the  f 
first  22  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve ; the  final  volume  of  the  finished 
product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

As  in  the  case  of  the  solid  extract  of  cimicifuga,  we  think  a somewhat  weaker  alco- 
holic menstruum  will  yield  an  equally  efficient  preparation. 

This  has  ail  the  sensible  properties  of  the  drug  from  which  it  was  made,  and  is  a per- 
manent preparation.  That  of  the  Br.  P.  is  nearly  identical  with  the  foregoing,  the  men- 
struum being  alcohol  sp.  gr.  0.838. 

Uses. — This  preparation  is  greatly  preferable  to  the  decoction,  which  was  formerly 
used.  Dose,  Gm.  2-4  (f3ss-j). 

EXTRACTUM  CINCHONA,  77.  Extract  of  Cinchona. 

Extractum  china  spirituosum,  P.  G. — Extract  of  calisaya-bark,  E. ; Extrait  de  quinquina 
jaune , Fr. ; Weingeistiges  China- Extrakt,  G.  ; Estratto  di  china,  It. 

Preparation. — Yellow  Cinchona,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Alcohol  3000  Cc.  ; 
Water  1000  Cc. ; Diluted  Alcohol,  a sufficient  quantity.  Mix  the  alcohol  and  water,  and, 
having  moistened  the  powder  with  350  Cc.  of  the  mixture,  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical 
percolator ; then  add  enough  menstruum  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a stratum 
above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator,  close  the  lower  orifice, 
and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow 
the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding,  first,  the  remainder  of  the  menstruum,  and 


EXTRA  CTTJM  CINCH ONTE  FLUIDUM. 


661 


then  diluted  alcohol,  until  4000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained  or  the  cinchona  is  exhausted. 
By  means  of  a water-bath  distil  off  the  alcohol  from  the  tincture,  and,  having  placed 
the  residue  in  a porcelain  capsule,  evaporate  it  on  a water-bath  to  a pilular  consistence. 
— U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  9 fluidounces  of  the  men- 
struum (alcohol  3 volumes,  water  1 volume). 

As  the  finished  extract  has  a tendency  to  become  tough  by  age,  the  addition  of  10  per 
cent,  by  weight  of  glycerin  is  advisable ; it  should  be  thoroughly  incorporated  while  the 
extract  is  still  warm. 

The  yield  varies  between  about  15  and  20  per  cent.  The  extract  is  of  a reddish-brown 
color,  is  only  partly  soluble  in  water,  and  has  the  persistently  bitter  taste  of  cinchona. 
The  German  Pharmacopoeia  directs  its  spirituous  extract  of  cinchona  to  be  made  with 
alcohol  spec.  grav.  0.894,  and  to  be  evaporated  to  dryness  ; it  recognizes  also  an  Extractum 
chinse  aquosum,  s.  Extractum  chinse  frigide  paratum , which  is  obtained  by  evaporating 
the  cold  aqueous  infusion  of  cinchona-bark.  The  cinchona  extracts  of  the  French  Codex 
are  prepared  with  boiling  water. 

Uses. — Extract  of  cinchona,  since  it  possesses  all  the  virtues  of  Peruvian  bark,  would 
for  many  purposes  be  preferable  to  quinine  were  it  less  bulky.  The  dose  is  from  Gm. 
0.60—2.00  (gr.  x-xxx). 

EXTRACTUM  CINCHONA  FLUIDUM,  U.  Fluid  Extract  of 

Cinchona. 

Extractum  cinchonse  liquidum , Br. ; Extractum  chinse  calisayse  jluidum. — Liquid  extract 
of  yellow  cinchona-  or  calisaya-bark , E.  ; Extrait  liquide  de  quinquina  jaune,  Fr.  ; Fliis- 
siges  ChinaextraJct,  Kalisayarinden-Extrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Yellow  Cinchona,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Glycerin  200  Cc. ; 
Alcohol,  Water,  each  a sufficient  quantity;  to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  glycerin  with 
800  Cc.  of  alcohol.  Moisten  the  powder  with  350  Cc.  of  the  mixture,  pack  it  firmly  in 
a cylindrical  percolator,  and  pour  on  the  remainder  of  the  menstruum.  When  the  liquid 
begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator,  close  the  lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the 
percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  and 
when  the  liquid  in  the  percolator  has  disappeared  from  the  surface  gradually  pour  on  a 
mixture  of  alcohol  and  water,  made  in  the  proportion  of  800  Cc.  of  alcohol  to  200  Cc. 
of  water,  and  continue  the  percolation  until  the  cinchona  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first 
750  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remainder  to  a soft  extract ; dissolve  this  in 
the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  of  a mixture  of  alcohol  and  water,  using  the  same 
proportions  as  before,  to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — XJ.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  9 fluidounces  of  menstruum 
(alcohol  4 volumes,  glycerin  1 volume),  and  the  first  18J  fluidounces  of  percolate  set 
aside  as  reserve ; when  24  fluidounces  of  menstruum  have  been  used,  percolation  is  to  be 
continued  with  a mixture  of  alcohol  4 volumes  and  water  1 volume.  The  final  volume 
of  the  finished  product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

Macerate  for  two  days  red  cinchona  in  No.  60  powder  20  oz.,  with  water  100  oz.,  glycerin 
21  fluidounces,  and  hydrochloric  acid  5 fluidrachms;  percolate,  exhaust  with  water,  evap- 
orate below  82.2°  C.  (180°  F.)  to  20  fluidounces.  Agitate  50  fluidgrains  of  this  liquid 
with  benzolated  amyl  alcohol  1 fluidounce  (benzene  3 vol.,  amyl  alcohol  1 vol.),  and  soda 
solution  1 fluidounce ; separate  the  alkaline  watery  liquid,  wash  the  remainder  with  water, 
then  evaporate  to  dryness  and  weigh.  By  evaporation,  or  if  necessary  by  dilution  with 
water,  adjust  the  concentrated  percolate  to  85  fluidgrains  for  every  5 grains  of  total 
alkaloids ; add  12.5  fluidgrains  of  alcohol  and  enough  distilled  water  to  make  100  fluid- 
grains. — Br. 

The  first  formula  is  decidedly  the  better,  and,  though  the  addition  of  a small  quantity 
of  water  to  the  mixture  of  alcohol  and  glycerin  would  yield  an  equally  good  preparation, 
the  fluid  extract  remains  practically  unaltered.  It  is  of  a rich,  red-brown  color,  and  if 
made  of  good  bark  contains  all  the  alkaloids  in  their  natural  combination.  Water  alone 
will  but  partially  exhaust  cinchona-bark,  and  during  the  long-continued  evaporation  a 
portion  of  the  alkaloids  will  become  insoluble  through  the  alteration  of  the  tannin.  On 
the  other  hand,  a stronger  alcohol  will  dissolve  more  cinchonic  red,  but  secure  the  more 
thorough  exhaustion  of  the  alkaloids.  The  product  of  the  second  formula  contains  5 
grains  of  the  alkaloids  of  red  cinchona  in  every  100  fluidgrains. 

Uses. — An  advantage  of  this  preparation  is,  that  it  contains  in  solution  all  the  active 


662 


EXTRACTUM  COCjE  FLUIDUM.— COLCHICI  RADICIS. 


principles  of  cinchona,  and  not  merely  one  or  the  other  of  the  alkaloids.  As  a tonic 
it  may  be  given  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  2 (f^ss).  For  securing  the  antiperiodic  effects  of 
cinchona  it  is  eligible  only  in  mild  cases  of  periodical  fever ; in  severer  cases  efficient 
doses  of  it  would  be  too  bulky. 

EXTRACTUM  COCEE  FLUIDUM,  U.  S.— Fluid  Extract  of  Coca. 

Extractum  erythroxyli  fluidum , U.  S.,  1880  ; Fluid  extract  of  erythroxylon , E. ; Extrait 
liquide  de  coca , Fr. ; Fliissiges  Coca-Extrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Coca,  in  No.  40  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Diluted  Alcohol,  a sufficient 
quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  450  Cc.  of  diluted  alcohol,  and  pack 
it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator  ; then  add  enough  diluted  alcohol  to  saturate  the  powder 
and  leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator,  close 
the  lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight 
hours.  Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  diluted  alcohol,  until  the 
coca  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  800  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remain- 
der to  a soft  extract ; dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  diluted  alco- 
hol to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  10?  fluidounces  of  menstruum,, 
and  the  first  19^-  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve ; the  final  volume  of  the 
finished  product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

Fluid  extract  of  coca  is  of  a deep-brown  or  olive-brown  color,  and  has  the  astringent 
bitter  and  slightly  aromatic  taste  of  the  leaves. 

Uses. — This  preparation  may  be  used  to  secure  the  milder  effects  of  cocaine.  Dose , 
Gm.  1 to  4 (Klxv-f^i). 

EXTRACTUM  COLCHICI  RADICIS,  U.  Extract  of  Colchicum- 

ROOT. 

Extractum  colchici  aceticum , U.  S.,  1870,  Br.  ; Acetic  extract  of  colchicum , E. ; Extrait 
de  colchique  acetique , Fr.  ; Zeitlosen-Essigextra/ct,  G. 

Preparation. — Colchicum-root,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm.  ; Acetic  Acid  350  Cc. ; 
Water  a sufficient  quantity.  Mix  the  acetic  acid  with  1500  Cc.  of  water,  and,  having 
moistened  the  powder  with  500  Cc.  of  the  mixture,  pack  it  moderately  in  a cylindrical 
glass  percolator ; then  add  enough  menstruum  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a stratum 
above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator,  close  the  lower  orifice,, 
and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow 
the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding,  first,  the  remainder  of  the  menstruum,  and. 
then  water,  until  the  colchicum-root  is  exhausted.  Evaporate  the  percolate  in  a porce- 
lain vessel  by  means  of  a water-bath,  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  80°  C.  (176°  F.), 
to  a pilular  consistence. — TJ.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  12  fluidounces  of  the  men- 
struum (acetic  acid  3i  volumes,  water  15  volumes.) 

The  corresponding  preparation  of  the  Br.  P.  is  made  like  the  extract,  the  formula  of 
which  is  given  below,  the  only  difference  consisting  in  the  addition  of  6 fluidounces  of 
acetic  acid  to  the  bruised  colchicum-tubers  before  the  juice  is  expressed.  The  extract  is 
of  a brown  color  and  bitter  taste,  and  yields  with  water  a rather  turbid  solution.  The 
U.  S.  P.  errs  in  directing  it  to  be  of  pilular  consistence,  while  the  Br.  P.  is  correct  in 
stating  it  to  be  a soft  extract ; it  is  certainly  softer  than  the  next : 

Extractum  colchici,  Br. — Extract  of  colchicum,  E. ; Extrait  de  bulbe  de  colchique, 
Fr. ; Zeitlosen-Extrakt,  G. — Take  of  fresh  colchicum-corms,  deprived  of  their  coats,  7 
pounds.  Crush  the  corms,  press  out  the  juice,  allow  the  feculence  to  subside,  and  heat 
the  clear  liquor  to  212°  F.  ; then  strain  through  flannel,  and  evaporate  by  a water-bath, 
at  a temperature  not  exceeding  160°  F.,  until  the  extract  is  of  a suitable  consistence  for 
forming  pills. — Br. 

The  extract  of  colchicum  of  the  French  Codex  is  prepared  from  the  seeds  with  alcohol 
of  60  per  cent. 

Uses. — These  two  extracts  are  convenient  forms  of  colchicum  for  prescription  in 
pills,  and  especially  in  those  purgative  pills  which  gouty  patients  commonly  require. 
The  dose  of  either  is  from  Gm.  0.03—0.12  (gr.  ss-ij),  according  to  the  British  Pharma- 
copoeia, but  some  German  authorities  state  the  dose  at  Gm.  0.01-0.03  (gr.  J-J)- 


EXTRA CTUM  COLCHICI  RADICTS  FLUID UM.—COLOCYNTHIDIS. 


663 


EXTRAOTUM  COLCHICI  RADICIS  FLUIDUM,  U.  8.— Fluid 
Extract  of  Colchicum-Root. 

Extrait  liquid e de  bulbe  de  colchique , Fr. ; Fliissiges  Zeitlosenknollen-Extrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Colchicum-Root,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Alcohol,  Water,  each 
a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  600  Cc.  of  alcohol  with  300  Cc.  of  water, 
and,  having  moistened  the  powder  with  350  Cc.  of  the  mixture,  pack  it  moderately  in  a 
cylindrical  percolator;  then  add  enough  of  the  menstruum  to  saturate  the  powder  and 
leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator  close  the 
lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours. 
Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  menstruum,  until  the  colchicum- 
root  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  850  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remain- 
der to  a soft  extract ; dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  menstruum 
to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  9 fluidounces  of  the  men- 
struum (alcohol  2 volumes,  water  1 volume),  and  the  first  21  fluidounces  of  percolate 
set  aside  as  reserve  ; the  final  volume  of  the  finished  product  should  be  made  up  to  24 
fluidounces. 

Diluted  alcohol  will  extract  all  the  virtues  of  colchicum-root,  and  experience  has  shown 
that  the  fluid  extract  made  therewith  remains  clear  for  years,  hence  there  appears  no 
reason  for  continuing  the  stronger  alcoholic  menstruum  of  1880. 

This  fluid  extract  is  of  a deep  brown-red  color,  keeps  well,  and  fully  represents  the 
drug  from  which  it  is  prepared. 

Uses. — This  preparation  contains  all  the  virtues  of  colchicum.  Dose,  Gm.  0.10-0.50 
(n^ii-vm). 

EXTRAOTUM  COLCHICI  SEMINIS  FLUIDUM,  V.  8.— Fluid 
Extract  of  Colchicum- Seed. 

Extrait  liquide  de  semence  de  colchique,  Fr. ; Fliissiges  Zeitlosensa.men-Extrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Colchicum-Seed,  in  No.  30  powder,  1000  Gm.  ; Alcohol,  Water, 
each  a sufficient  quantity,  to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  600  Cc.  of  alcohol  with  300  Cc.  of 
water,  and,  having  moistened  the  powder  with  300  Cc.  of  the  mixture,  pack  it  firmly  in 
a cylindrical  percolator;  then  add  enough  menstruum  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a 
stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator  close  the  lower 
orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then 
allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  menstruum,  until  the  colchicum-seed 
is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  850  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remainder  to 
a soft  extract;  dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  menstruum  to  make 
the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  powdered  seed  should  be  moistened  with  about  L]  fluidounces  of 
menstruum  (alcohol  2 volumes,  water  1 volume),  and  the  first  21  fluidounces  of  perco- 
late set  aside  as  reserve ; the  final  volume  of  the  finished  product  should  be  made  up  to 
24  fluidounces. 

As  in  the  case  of  colchicum-root,  diluted  alcohol  has  been  found  to  completely  exhaust 
the  seed  likewise,  and  a more  satisfactory  preparation  is  obtained,  as  the  separation  of 
oily  globules  is  entirely  obviated  by  the  use  of  the  weaker  menstruum. 

Uses. — Like  the  preceding,  this  extract  is  a full  representative  of  colchicum.  Dose , 
from  Gm.  0.10-0.50  (npij-viij). 

EXTRAOTUM  COLOCYNTHIDIS,  U.  8.,  P.  G.— Extract  of 

OOLOCYNTH. 

Extraction  colocyutliidis  alcoholicum . — Extrait  de  coloquinte , Fr.  ; Kolo  quint  en-Extrakt , 
G. ; Estratto  di  coloquintide,  It. 

Preparation. — Colocynth.  dried  and  freed  from  the  seeds,  1000  Gm. ; Diluted  Alco- 
hol a sufficient  quantity.  Reduce  the  colocynth  to  a coarse  powder  by  grinding  or 
bruising,  and  macerate  it  in  3500  Cc.  of  diluted  alcohol  for  four  days,  with  occasional 
stirring;  then  express  strongly  and  strain  through  flannel.  Pack  the  residue,  previously 
broken  up  with  the  hands,  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator,  cover  it  with  the  strainer, 


664 


EXTRACTUM  C0L0CYNTHID1S  COMPOSITUM. 


and  gradually  pour  diluted  alcohol  upon  it  until  the  tincture  and  expressed  liquid,  mixed 
together,  measure  5000  Cc.  Having  recovered  from  the  mixture  3000  Cc.  of  alcohol 
by  distillation,  evaporate  the  residue  to  dryness  by  means  of  a water-bath.  Lastly, 
reduce  the  dry  mass  to  powder.  Extract  of  colocynth  should  be  kept  in  well-stopped 
bottles. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  coarsely-powdered  colocynth  pulp  should  be  macerated  with  5J  pints  j 
of  diluted  alcohol  for  four  days,  and  after  expression  percolated  with  diluted  alcohol  j 
until  the  volume  of  tincture  and  expressed  liquid,  mixed  together,  measures  8 pints.  | 
4i  pints  of  alcohol  should  be  recovered  from  the  mixture  by  distillation,  and  the  residue  | 
evaporated  to  dryness  and  powdered. 

The  proportion  of  diluted  alcohol  directed  by  the  Pharmacopoeia  for  maceration  might 
be  increased  to  4500  Cc.  (for  25  av.  ozs.  to  7 pints)  with  advantage,  as  the  experiments 
of  Klie  and  others  have  shown  ; subsequent  percolation  should  be  extended  correspond- 
ingly until  the  drug  is  exhausted. 

Maceration  and  expression  being  considered  necessary  in  the  beginning,  it  would 
seem  that  the  extract  remaining  in  the  press-cake  could  be  more  expeditiously 
obtained,  and  with  a smaller  amount  of  menstruum,  by  repeating  the  operation  once 
or  twice.  This  is  the  process  of  the  German  Pharmacopoeia,  which  directs  for  2 
parts  of  colocynth,  with  the  seeds,  for  the  first  maceration,  15  parts  of  alcohol  spec.  grav. 
.894,  and  for  the  second  maceration  5 parts  each  of  the  same  alcohol  and  of  water.  With 
some  care  colocynth  may  be  treated  at  once  by  percolation,  but  owing  to  the  spongy 
character  of  its  tissues  it  is  advisable  to  express  the  absorbed  liquid  with  a good  press  as 
soon  as  the  greater  portion  of  the  active  matter  is  exhausted.  When  the  extract  is  made 
on  a large  scale  the  removal  of  the  seeds  is  a tedious  operation,  if  not  impossible.  For 
this  reason  the  colocynth  is  ground,  care  being  taken  not  to  crush  the  seeds,  which  would 
load  the  extract  with  much  oily  matter.  Hr.  Squibb  (1867)  obtained  from  very  dry  colo- 
cynth 20.6  per  cent,  of  extract;  the  general  yield  from  the  commercial  article  is  about  ; 
14  to  14.5  per  cent.  After  completely  removing  the  seeds,  Procter  (1867)  had  left,  from  « 
49  troyounces  of  colocynth,  only  12  troyounces  of  pulp,  which  yielded  3?  troyounces  of 
extract,  equal  to  6.8  per  cent.,  while  G.  H.  C.  Klie  (1878)  obtained  16  troyounces  of 
pulp,  and  not  over  6 troyounces,  or  12.5  per  cent.,  of  extract.  The  pulp  alone  yields 
usually  from  30  to  40  per  cent.,  the  seeds  about  5 per  cent.,  of  extract,  the  latter  being 
far  less  bitter  than  the  former. 

Action  and  Uses. — It  is  seldom  used  alone,  but  is  an  ingredient  of  the  compound 
extract  of  colocynth.  In  Germany  this  extract  is  prescribed  as  a mild  laxative  in  the 
dose  of  from  Gm.  0.03  to  0.06  (gr.  i-l),  and  as  a drastic  purgative  in  the  dose  Gm. 
0.1  to  0.3  (gr.  U-2). 

EXTRACTUM  COLOCYNTHIDIS  COMPOSITUM,  U.  S.,  Br.— 

Compound  Extract  of  Colocynth. 

Extrait  de  coloquinte  compose , Fr.  ; Zusammengesetztes  Koloqidnten-Extraht , G. 
Preparation. — Extract  of  Colocynth  160  Gm.  ; Purified  Aloes  500  Gm. ; Carda- 
mom, in  No.  60  powder,  60  Gm.  ; Kesin  of  Scammony,  in  fine  powder,  140  Gm.  ; Soap, 
dried  and  in  coarse  powder,  140  Gm.  ; Alcohol  100  Cc.  Heat  the  aloes  on  a water- 
bath  until  it  is  completely  melted  ; then  add  the  alcohol,  soap,  extract  of  colcynth,  and 
resin  of  scammony,  and  heat  the  mixture,  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  120°  C.  (248° 
F.),  until  it  is  perfectly  homogeneous  and  a thread  taken  from  the  mass  appears  brittle 
when  cool.  Then  withdraw  the  heat,  thoroughly  incorporate  the  cardamom  with  the 
mixture,  and  cover  the  vessel  until  the  contents  are  cold.  Finally,  reduce  the  product  to  a 
fine  powder.  Compound  extract  of  colocynth  should  be  kept  in  well-stopped  bottles. — 

U.  S. 

To  make  4 av.  ozs.  of  compound  extract  of  colocynth  the  following  formula  may  be 
used,  yielding  a preparation  of  official  strength  : Wrarm  875  grains  of  purified  aloes  in  a 

covered  vessel  on  a water-bath,  with  2|  fluidrachms  of  alcohol ; add  280  grains  of  extract 
of  colocynth,  245  grains  each  of  powdered  soap  and  resin  of  scammony,  and  heat  the 
mixture  (not  above  248°  F.)  until  it  is  perfectly  homogeneous  and  brittle.  Withdraw  the 
heat,  incorporate  105  grains  of  powdered  cardamom,  and  cover  the  vessel  until  the  con- 
tents are  cold.  Finally  reduce  to  fine  powder. 

Take  of  colocynth-pulp  6 ounces  ; extract  of  Socotrine  aloes  12  ounces  ; resin  of  scam- 
mony 4 ounces ; curd  soap,  in  powder,  3 ounces ; cardamom-seeds  in  fine  powder,  1 ounce ; 
proof  spirit  1 gallon.  Macerate  the  colocynth  in  the  spirit  for  four  days  ; press  out  the 


EXTRA  CTUM  COND  UR  A NG  0 FL  UID  UM.— CONTI. 


665 


tincture  and  distil  off  the  spirit;  then  add  the  aloes,  scammony,  and  soap,  and  evaporate 
by  a water-bath  until  the  extract  is  of  a suitable  consistence  for  forming  pills,  adding  the 
cardamoms  toward  the  end  of  the  process. — Br. 

The  first  formula  is  preferable  for  directing  a definite  amount  of  the  extract  of  colo- 
cynth,  instead  of  the  extract  obtained  from  a definite  weight  of  colocynth-pulp,  which 
may  vary  considerably  (see  above).  By  mixing  the  ingredients  in  the  state  of  fine 
powder  a preparation  uniform  in  appearance  cannot  be  obtained.  But  by  melting  them 
together  with  the  assistance  of  a little  alcohol,  and  by  subsequently  drying  and  powder- 
ing, an  unobjectionable  compound  extract  is  produced. 

Action  and  Uses. — As  an  efficient  and  safe  purgative  this  compound,  when  well 
prepared,  is  not  excelled  by  any  other  in  cases  of  habitual  constipation  produced  by  torpor 
of  the  bowels.  Calomel  or  rhubarb  can  be  added  to  it  to  meet  special  indications,  or,  if 
it  is  disposed  to  gripe,  extract  of  hyoscyamus  will  help  to  correct  the  tendency.  The 
dose  is  Gm.  0.30-1.30  (gr.  v-xx).  This  extract,  as  found  in  the  shops,  is  often  inert. 

EXTRACTUM  CONDURANGO  FLUIDUM,  P.  G.— Fluid  Extract 

OF  CONDURANGO. 

Extrait  liquide  de  condurango , Fr.  ; Fliissiges  Condurango- Extrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Condurango-bark,  in  No.  25  powder,  100  parts;  Glycerin,  6f  parts; 
Alcohol,  Water,  each  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  100  parts.  Mix  the  glycerin  with 
66f  parts  of  alcohol  and  26f  parts  of  water,  and,  having  moistened  the  powder  thoroughly 
with  sufficient  of  the  menstruum,  set  the  mixture  aside  in  a closed  vessel  for  two  or 
three  hours.  Transfer  to  a percolator,  pack  firmly,  and  pour  on  the  balance  of  the  men- 
struum, and  when  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator  close  the  lower  orifice, 
and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  twenty-four  hours  at  a tempera- 
ture of  15°-20°  C.  (59°-68°  F.).  Allow  percolation  to  proceed  at  the  rate  of  15-20 
drops  per  minute,  pouring  on  menstruum  composed  of  alcohol  1 part,  water  3 parts,  until 
the  drug  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  85  parts  ; evaporate  the  remainder  of  the 
percolate  to  a syrupy  consistence,  and  add  sufficient  menstruum  to  make  15  parts.  Mix 
the  two  liquids  and  set  aside  for  two  or  three  days,  then  filter. — P.  G. 

Fluid  extract  of  condurango  is  of  brown  color  and  has  the  specific  gravity  1.038-1.040, 
yielding  from  16-20  per  cent,  of  extractive. 

It  should  be  borne  in  mind  that  all  liquid  preparations  of  the  German  Pharmacopoeia 
are  made  by  weight. 

Dose , Gm.  2 (npxxx). 

EXTRACTUM  CONII,  U.  S.— Extract  of  Conium. 

Extraction  Conii  alcoholicum , U.  S.  1880. — Alcoholic  extract  of  hemlock-fruit , E. ; 
Extrait  alcoolique  de  semence  (fruity  decigue , Fr.  ; Spirituoses  Schierlingsfrucht- Extrakt,  G. 

Preparation. — Conium,  in  No.  40  powder,  1000  Gm.  ; Acetic  Acid  20  Cc. ; Diluted 
Alcohol,  a sufficient  quantity.  Moisten  the  powder  with  300  Cc.  of  diluted  alcohol,  and 
pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator ; then  add  enough  diluted  alcohol  to  saturate  the 
powder  and  leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator 
close  the  lower  orifice,  and  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight 
hours.  Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  diluted  alcohol,  until 
3000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained  or  until  the  conium  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first 
900  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  add  the  acetic  acid  to  the  remainder,  and  evaporate  it,  at  a tem- 
perature not  exceeding  50°  C.  (122°  F.)  to  a soft  extract;  mix  this  with  the  reserved 
portion  in  a porcelain  capsule,  and  evaporate  at  or  below  the  before-mentioned  tempera- 
ture to  a pilular  consistence. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  7\  fluidounces  of  the  menstruum, 
diluted  alcohol,  and  the  first  22  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve.  The  bal- 
ance of  the  percolate  after  addition  of  4 fluidrachms  of  acetic  acid  should  be  evaporated 
to  a soft  extract  at  a temperature  not  above  122°  F.,  the  reserve  tincture  added,  and  the 
whole  then  evaporated  to  a pilular  consistence. 

The  extract  formerly  (prior  to  1880)  recognized  under  the  above  title  was  made  from 
the  leaves,  and  was  of  slight  efficacy  and  variable  strength.  By  using  the  green  fruit  a 
more  reliable  preparation  is  obtained,  of  which,  however,  the  limits  of  variation  of  strength 
have  not  been  ascertained.  The  addition  of  acetic  acid  is  intended  to  prevent  the  volati- 
lization of  the  coniine.  The  yield  is  between  15  and  20  per  cent. 


666 


EXTRA CTUM  CONII  FL UID UM.—CVBEBJE  FLUIDUM . 


Extractum  conii,  Br .,  is  the  inspissated  juice  of  the  fresh  herb,  prepared  in  precisely 
the  same  manner  as  the  corresponding  inspissated  juices  of  aconite  and  belladonna.  The 
yield  is  3 or  4 per  cent. 

Uses. — The  primary  dose , of  about  Gm.  0.10  (gr.  ij),  may  be  gradually  increased  until 
its  operation  becomes  manifest. 

EXTRACTUM  CONII  FLUIDUM,  XI.  S. — Fluid  Extract  of  Conium. 

Extractum  conii  fructus  fluidum , U.  S.  1870. — Fluid  extract  of  hemlock-fruit , of  con- 
ium-seed,  E. ; Extrait  liquide  de  semence  ( fruit ) de  cigue , Fr.  ; Fliissiges  Schierlingsfrucht- 
Extrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Conium  in  No.  40  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Acetic  Acid,  20  Cc.  Diluted 
Alcohol  a sufficient  quantity ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  300  Cc. ; of 
diluted  alcohol,  and  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator  ; then  add  enough  diluted 
alcohol  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to 
drop  from  the  percolator  close  the  lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percola- 
tor, macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually 
adding  diluted  alcohol,  until  the  conium  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  900  Cc.  of  the 
percolate,  and,  having  added  the  acetic  acid  to  the  remainder,  evaporate  it,  at  a tempera- 
ture not  exceeding  50°  C.  (122°  F.),  to  a soft  extract;  dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  por- 
tion, and  add  enough  diluted  alcohol  to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  7J  fluidounces  of  the  men- 
struum, and  the  first  22  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve ; to  the  balance  of 
the  percolate  4 fluidrachms  of  acetic  acid  are  added  before  evaporation.  The  final  vol- 
ume of  the  finished  product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

A fluid  extract,  prepared  from  the  fully-developed  green  fruit  of  conium,  is  preferable 
to  that  from  the  leaves.  The  acetic  acid  is  added  to  the  portion  to  be  evaporated  for  the 
purpose  of  preventing  the  evaporation  of  the  readily  volatile  coniine.  The  fluid  extract 
keeps  well,  is  of  a brown-green  color,  and  has  the  peculiar  odor  of  conium,  and  this  is  con- 
siderably increased  on  the  addition  of  potassa. 

Uses. — It  is  a convenient  form,  and,  next  to  the  juice,  the  most  reliable,  for  the  admin- 
istration of  conium.  Dose,  Gm.  0.10-0.40  (iffiij-vj). 

EXTRACTUM  CONVALLARLE  FLUIDUM,  U.  S.— Fluid  Extract 

OF  CONVALLARIA. 

Fluid  extract  of  lily-of-the-valley,  E. ; Extrait  liquide  de  muguet , Fr. ; Fliissiges  Mai- 
blumenwurzel-Extrakt,  G. 

Preparation. — Convallaria,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm.  ; Diluted  Alcohol,  a sufficient 
quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  400  Cc.  of  diluted  alcohol,  and 
pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator  ; then  add  enough  diluted  alcohol  to  saturate 
the  powder  and  leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the 
percolator,  close  the  lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate 
for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  diluted 
alcohol,  until  the  convallaria  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  800  Cc.  of  the  percolate, 
and  evaporate  the  remainder  to  a soft  extract;  dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and 
add  enough  diluted  alcohol  to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  10  fluidounces  of  the  menstruum, 
and  the  first  19J  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve;  the  final  volume  of  the 
finished  product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

This  is  one  of  the  new  fluid  extracts  of  the  Pharmacopaeia  ; experience  has  shown  that 
diluted  alcohol  thoroughly  exhausts  the  drug  and  yields  a stable  preparation. 

Uses. — An  efficient  preparation  of  convallaria.  Dose,  Gm.  0.18-0.60  (^liij-x). 

EXTRACTUM  CUBEB.E  FLUIDUM,  77.  S.— Fluid  Extract  of  Cubeb. 

Extrait  liquide  de  cubebe,  Fr.  ; Fliissiges  Kubeben-Extrakt,  G. 

Preparation. — Cubeb,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Alcohol  a sufficient  qnantity; 
to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  250  Cc.  of  alcohol,  and  pack  it  firmly  in  a 
cylindrical  percolator  ; then  add  enough  alcohol  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a stra- 
tum above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator  close  the  lower 
orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then 
allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  alcohol,  until  the  cubeb  is  exhausted. 


EXTRACT UM  CUSSO  FLUID UM.— DIGITALIS. 


667 


Reserve  the  first  900  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remainder  to  a soft  extract ; 
dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  alcohol  to  make  the  fluid  extract 
measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  powdered  cubeb  should  be  moistened  with  about  6 fluidounces  of  the 
menstruum,  and  the  first  22  fluidounces  of  the  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve  ; the  final 
volume  of  the  finished  product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

This  fluid  extract  should  not  be  confounded  with  the  oleoresin  of  the  same  drug, 
which  was  formerly  recognized  as  fluid  extract ; it  contains  the  medicinally  active  resin, 
together  with  most  of  the  volatile  oil,  is  of  a dark-green  color,  and  has  the  odor  and  taste 
of  cubeb. 

Uses. — As  a substitute  for  cubeb  this  preparation  is  of  doubtful  utility,  except,  perhaps, 
in  chronic  affections  of  the  genito-urinary  passages.  Dose , Gm.  0.60—2.00  (n^x-xxx). 

EXTRACTUM  CUSSO  FLUIDUM,  U.  S.— Fluid  Extract  of  Cusso. 

Extractum  brayerse  fluidum , U.  S.  1880. — Extractum  koso  fluidum. — Fluid  extract 
of  bray  era,  E. ; Extrait  liquide  de  cousso , Fr.  ; Fliissiges  Koso  Extrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Cusso,  in  No.  40  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Alcohol,  a sufficient  quantity, 
to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  400  Cc.  of  alcohol,  and  pack  it  firmly  in  a 
cylindrical  percolator ; then  add  enough  alcohol  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a 
stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator,  close  the  lower 
orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then 
allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  alcohol  until  the  cusso  is  exhausted. 
Reserve  the  first  900  Cc.  of  the  percolate  ; by  means  of  a water-bath,  distil  off  the 
alcohol  from  the  remainder,  and  evaporate  the  residue  to  a soft  extract;  dissolve  this  in 
the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  alcohol  to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. 

— U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  cusso  should  be  moistened  with  about  10  fluidounces  of  menstruum, 
and  the  first  22  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve ; the  final  volume  of  the 
finished  product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

Alcohol  is  a good  solvent  for  the  active  principles  of  cusso.  The  fluid  extract  has  a 
brownish-green  color,  possesses  the  unpleasantly  bitter  and  acrid  taste  of  the  drug,  and 
if  properly  made  produces  only  a slight  deposit. 

Uses. — This  preparation  is  intended  to  supplant  the  infusion  and  decoction  of  cusso, 
but  its  efficacy  has  not  yet  been  demonstrated.  The  dose  may  be  stated  at  Gm.  8—12 
(3>j-3»j)- 


EXTRACTUM  CYPRIPEDE  FLUIDUM,  U.  S.— Fluid  Extract  of 

Cypripedium. 

Extrait  liquide  de  cypripede  de  jaune , Fr.  ; Fliissiges  Gelbfrauenschuli- Extrakt,  G. 

Preparation. — Cypripedium,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Diluted  Alcohol,  a suf- 
ficient quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc'.  Moisten  the  powder  with  350  Cc.  of  diluted  alco- 
hol, and  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator;  then  add  enough  diluted  alcohol  to 
saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from 
the  percolator  close  the  lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate 
for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  alcohol, 
until  the  cypripedium  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  850  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and 
evaporate  the  remainder  to  a soft  extract;  dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add 
enough  alcohol  to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  9 fluidounces  of  menstruum, 
and  the  first  21  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve ; the  final  volume  of  the 
finished  product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

Although  the  present  menstruum  is  an  improvement  upon  that  directed  in  1880,  yet 
experience  has  taught  that  a mixture  of  alcohol  2 volumes,  water  1 volume  will  yield 
better  results  than  either  alcohol  or  diluted  alcohol. 

It  is  of  a reddish-brown  color,  with  the  taste  of  the  drug  well  marked. 

Dose,  Gm.  0.60-1.30  (n^x-xx). 

EXTRACTUM  DIGITALIS,  U.  S.— Extract  of  Digitalis. 

Extractum  digitalis  alcoholicum. — Extrait  ah  oolique  de  digitule,  Fr.  ; Finge i h ut- Extrakt, 
G. ; Estratto  di  digitale,  It.  ; Extracto  di  digitale , Sp. 


668  EXTRACTUM  DIGITALIS  EL  UID  UM.—D  ULCAMARJE  FLU  IDEM. 


Preparation. — Digitalis,  recently  dried  and  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm.;  Alcohol, 
Water,  each,  a sufficient  quantity.  Mix  600  Cc.  of  alcohol  with  300  Cc.  of  water,  and, 
having  moistened  the  powder  with  400  Cc.  of  the  mixture,  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical 
percolator  : then  add  enough  menstruum  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a stratum 
above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator,  close  the  lower  orifice, 
and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow 
the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  menstruum,  using  the  same  proportions  of 
alcohol  and  water  as  before,  until  3000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained  or  the  digitalis  is 
exhausted.  By  means  of  a water-bath  distil  off  the  alcohol  from  the  tincture,  and, 
having  placed  the  residue  in  a porcelain  capsule,  evaporate  it  on  a water-bath  to  a 
pilular  consistence. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  digitalis  should  be  moistened  with  about  10  fluidounces  of  the  men- 
struum (alcohol  2 volumes,  water  1 volume),  and  percolation  continued  with  the  same 
menstruum  until  about  75  fluidounces  of  percolate  have  been  obtained. 

The  French  Codex  directs  a weaker  alcoholic  solvent  of  60  per  cent,  by  volume.  The 
yield  is  usually  from  22  to  25  per  cent.  The  extract  is  of  a green-brown  color,  and  with 
ordinary  care  retains  a good  consistence  without  having  glycerin  incorporated  with  it. 
Extractum  digitalis,  P.  G.,  is  the  inspissated  juice,  prepared  like  Extractum  belladonna. 
It  is  brown,  and  its  weight  is  equal  to  that  of  3 or  4,  or  sometimes  5,  per  cent,  of  the 
fresh  leaves  and  branches  employed. 

Uses. — This  extract  is  rarely  used,  and  probably  is  less  reliable  than  any  other  prep- 
aration of  digitalis.  Dose , Gm.  0.01  (gr.  i),  and  gradually  increased. 

EXTRACTUM  DIGITALIS  FLUIDUM,  77.  S.— Fluid  Extract  of 

Digitalis. 

Extrait  liquide  de  digitate , Fr. ; Fliissiges  Fingerhut-Extrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Digitalis,  recently  dried,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm.  ; Alcohol, 
Water,  each,  a sufficient  quantity,  to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  600  Cc.  of  alcohol  with  300 
Cc.  of  water,  and,  having  moistened  the  powder  with  400  Cc.  of  the  mixture,  pack  it 
firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator ; then  add  enough  of  the  menstruum  to  saturate  the 
powder  and  leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator 
close  the  lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight 
hours.  Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  menstruum,  until  the 
digitalis  is  exhausted.  Deserve  the  first  850  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the 
remainder  to  a soft  extract ; dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  men- 
struum to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  digitalis  should  be  moistened  with  about  10  fluidounces  of  menstruum, 
and  the  first  21  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve;  the  final  volume  of  the 
finished  product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

Digitalis  not  being  indigenous  to  North  America,  and  the  leaves  varying  in  activity 
according  to  the  locality  of  their  growTth,  the  directions  of  this  and  the  preceding  formula 
to  employ  recently-dried  leaves  cannot  well  be  carried  out.  The  fluid  extract  is  of  a 
green-brown  color,  and  a fair  representative  of  digitalis ; the  precipitate  which  is  formed 
on  standing  probably  retains  little  or  none  of  the  active  principles  of  the  leaves. 

Uses. — Its  advantages  over  the  tincture,  and  especially  over  the  infusion,  are  not  very 
apparent.  The  dose  is  Gm.  0.06-0.12  (gtt.  j — ij ) . 

EXTRACTUM  DULCAMARA  FLUIDUM,  77.  S.— Fluid  Extract  of 

Dulcamara. 

Fluid  extract  of  bittersweet , E ; Extrait  liquide  de  douce-amere , Fr. ; Fliissiges  Bitter- 
siiss-Extrakt,  G. 

Preparation. — Dulcamara,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm.  ; Diluted  Alcohol,  a suf- 
ficient quantity,  to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  400  Cc.  of  diluted  alcohol, 
and  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator  ; then  add  enough  diluted  alcohol  to  saturate 
the  powder  and  leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  per- 
colator close  the  lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for 
forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  diluted  alco- 
hol, until  the  dulcamara  is  exhausted.  Deserve  the  first  800  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and 
evaporate  the  remainder  to  a soft  extract ; dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add 
enough  diluted  alcohol  to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 


EXTRACT!] M ERGOTjE.-ERGOTJE  FLUIDUM. 


669 


25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  10  fluidounces  of  menstruum, 
and  the  first  191  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve;  the  final  volume  of  the 
finished  product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

The  fluid  extract  is  of  a deep-brown  color,  and  on  standing  deposits  a precipitate  which 
probably  contains  none  of  the  active  principle. 

Extractum  dulcamara:,  U.  iS.  1870,  which  has  been  dismissed  from  the  Pharmaco- 
poeia, was  made  with  diluted  alcohol,  and  may  be  prepared  extemporaneously  by  evapor- 
ating the  fluid  extract ; the  twigs  yield  from  20  to  25  per  cent,  of  extract. 

Uses. — This  fluid  extract  probably  contains  all  the  active  elements  of  dulcamara, 
and  may  be  prescribed  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  4 (f 33 ) , largely  diluted  and  gradually  in- 
creased. 


EXTRACTUM  ERGOTS,  U.  S.— Extract  of  Ergot. 

Extractum  secalis  cornuti , P.  G.  ; Extractum  hsemostaticum. — Extrait  d' ergot  de  seigle , 
Fr.  ; Mutterkornextrakt,  G. 

Preparation. — Fluid  Extract  of  Ergot  150  Cc.  Evaporate  the  fluid  extract  of  ergot 
in  a porcelain  capsule  by  means  of  a water-bath,  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  50°  C. 
(122°  F.),  constantly  stirring,  until  it  is  reduced  to  a pilular  consistence. — JJ.  S. 

Exhaust  ergot  10  parts  twice  by  maceration  with  8 parts  of  cold  water;  evaporate  the 
mixed  infusions  to  5 parts,  add  alcohol  spec.  grav.  0.894,  5 parts,  shake  well ; after  three 
days  filter,  and  evaporate  to  the  consistence  of  an  extract ; treat  this  extract  twice  with 
its  weight  of  alcohol,  decant  the  liquid,  and  evaporate  the  residue  to  a thick  extract. 
—P.  G. 

The  first  formula  is  based  upon  observations  made  by  Dr.  Squibb  ( Proc . Amer.  Phar. 
Assoc.,  1873,  p.  644)  with  fluid  extract  of  ergot,  U.  S.  P.,  1860  ; this  was  prepared  with 
diluted  alcohol  containing  some  acetic  acid,  and  represented  5 per  cent,  more  of  ergot 
than  the  present  fluid  extract.  6 parts  of  the  former  yielded  1 part  of  extract,  which 
was  insoluble  in  cold  alcohol,  perfectly  soluble  in  diluted  alcohol,  and  easily  soluble  in 
water,  with  the  exception  of  an  insignificant  residue  which  could  easily  be  filtered  out, 
the  filtrate  being  of  a garnet-red  color.  Considering  the  variation  of  soluble  matter  in 
ergot  (see  below),  the  yield  of  extract,  strictly  prepared  in  accordance  with  the  above 
directions,  may  vary  greatly ; 16  per  cent,  is  a fair  average.  It  is  of  a light-brown  or 
reddish-brown  color,  having  the  behavior  to  solvents  stated  above ; on  being  treated  with 
an  alkali  the  peculiar  odor  of  ergot  is  strongly  increased. 

The  extract  resulting  from  the  second  formula  is  evidently  intended  to  contain  the 
active  sclerotic  acid  in  a more  concentrated  state.  The  concentrated  infusion  on  being 
mixed  with  the  quantity  of  alcohol  stated  yields  a precipitate  consisting  mainly  of  inert 
salts  and  scleromucin  ; on  treating  the  extract  subsequently  with  alcohol  coloring  matters 
and  alkaloidal  salts  are  removed  and  the  sclerotates  left  in  the  extract.  The  yield  is 
about  14  per  cent.  By  treating  the  concentrated  infusion  with  alcohol,  Hirsch  ( Ver- 
gleichende  Uebersicht , 1883,  p.  119)  obtained  from  8.66  to  20,  and  on  an  average  15,  per 
cent,  of  extract. 

Ergotinum,  Br.;  Ergotin,  E.,  G.;  Ergotine,  Fr. — Evaporate  4 fluidounces  of  liquid 
extract  of  ergot  to  a syrupy  consistence ; add  4 fluidounces  of  rectified  spirit,  filter,  and 
evaporate  to  a soft  extract. — Br.  To  the  aqueous  infusion  of  ergot,  concentrated  to  a 
syrupy  liquid,  add  alcohol  until  the  liquid  begins  to  lose  its  transparency  ; agitate,  decant, 
and  evaporate. — F.  Cod.  The  first  is  Bonjean’s  process ; the  second  is  very  similar  to 
that  of  the  P.  G.  above,  the  precipitation  of  the  active  sclerotates  being  avoided  by 
lessening  the  alcohol.  (See  paper  by  Prof.  Diehl  in  Proc.  Amer.  Phar.  Assoc.,  1881,  p.  69). 

Uses. — Ergotin  may  be  given  internally  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.20-0.80  (gr.  iij-xij), 
equivalent  to  from  30  to  120  grains  of  ergot.  It  is  also  administered  hypodermically — 5 
parts  of  it  being  dissolved  in  7 parts  each  of  glycerin  and  water,  and  filtered.  It 
should  be  injected  deeply  into  a muscular  part  after  its  acidity  has  been  partially 
neutralized  by  sodium  bicarbonate.  In  this  manner  it  has  been  injected  into  goitres 
with  reported  success. 

EXTRACTUM  ERGOTS  FLUIDUM,  JJ,  S, — Fluid  Extract  of 

Ergot. 

Extractum  ergotse  liquidum , Br.  ; Extractum  secalis  cornuti  fluidum,  P.  G.‘;  Extrait 
liquide  d' ergot  dc  seigle , Fr.  ; Fliissiges  Mutterkornextrakt.  G. 

Preparation. — Ergot,  recently  ground  and  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm.  ; Acetic 


670 


EXTR ACTUM  ERIODICTYI  FLUID UM. 


Acid  20  Cc. ; Diluted  Alcohol  a sufficient  quantity,  to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the 
powder  with  300  Cc.  of  diluted  alcohol,  and  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator; 
then  add  enough  diluted  alcohol  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a stratum  above  it. 
When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator,  close  the  lower  orifice,  and,  having 
closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow  the  percola- 
tion to  proceed,  gradually  adding  diluted  alcohol,  until  the  ergot  is  exhausted.  Reserve 
the  first  850  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and,  having  added  the  acetic  acid  to  the  remainder, 
evaporate  to  a soft  extract ; dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  diluted 
alcohol  to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  fluidounces  of  diluted  alco- 
hol and  the  first  21  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve;  to  the  balance  of  the 
percolate  4 fluidracbms  of  acetic  acid  are  added  before  evaporation.  The  final  volume 
of  the  finished  product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

We  fail  to  see  any  good  reason  for  increasing  the  alcoholic  strength  of  the  menstruum 
over  that  ordered  in  1880  ; it  is  conceded  now  that  water  alone  is  capable  of  extracting 
the  valuable  constituents  of  ergot,  and  hence  nothing  can  be  gained  by  a stronger  alco- 
holic liquid.  The  advantage  of  adding  an  acid  to  the  weak  percolate  before  evaporation 
is  doubtful,  and  by  many  is  positively  denied  ; acetic  acid  is,  however,  less  objectionable 
than  hydrochloric  acid,  formerly  employed. 

The  corresponding  preparation  of  the  Br.  P.  is  equally  efficient.  The  following  is  the 
formula  : Take  of  ergot,  crushed,  1 pound  ; distilled  water  6 pints  (Imperial)  ; rectified 
spirit  6 fluidounces.  Digest  the  ergot  in  4 pints  of  the  water  for  twelve  hours  ; draw 
off  the  infusion  and  repeat  the  digestion  with  the  remainder  of  the  water;  press  out, 
strain,  and  evaporate  the  liquors  by  the  heat  of  a water-bath  to  11  fluidounces;  when 
cold  add  the  spirit , allow  to  stand  for  an  hour  to  coagulate,  then  filter.  The  product 
should  measure  16  fluidounces. — Br. 

The  Germ.  Pharm.  directs  that  100  parts  of  ergot  shall  be  exhausted  with  a menstruum 
composed  of  1 part  of  alcohol  and  4 parts  of  water  (both  by  weight)  ; the  first  85  parts 
of  percolate  are  set  aside  as  reserve  and  the  weak  percolate,  after  addition  of  2.4  parts 
of  25  per  cent,  hydrochloric  acid,  is  evaporated  to  a syrup,  mixed  with  enough  men- 
struum to  make  15  parts  and  then  added  to  the  reserve  tincture. 

The  large  quantity  of  fixed  oil  present  in  ergot  is  liable  to  be  displaced  by  percolation 
with  an  alcoholic  menstruum,  but  not  with  water.  None  of  the  pharmacopoeias  direct 
the  removal  of  the  oil ; this  may  be  accomplished  by  exhausting  the  ergot  with  ether  or 
petroleum  benzin.  By  evaporating  the  liquid  extract  of  the  Br.  P.  to  the  consistence 
of  a soft  extract,  a preparation  agreeing  with  the  ergotin  of  the  French  Codex  is  obtained. 

Uses. — This  preparation  represents  the  totality  of  the  active  elements  of  ergot.  In 
cases  of  uterine,  inertia  it  may  be  prescribed  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  2-4  (f^ss-f^j)  repeated 
every  fifteen  or  twenty  minutes.  To  counteract  the  effects  of  spinal  hypersemia  the  com- 
mencing dose  should  not  be  less  than  Gm.  8 (gij)  three  times  a day,  and  it  may  be  in- 
creased to  three,  or  even  four,  times  that  quantity. 

EXTRACTUM  ERIODICTYI  FLUIDUM,  Z7,  S.— Fluid  Extract  of 

Eriodictyon. 

Fluid  extract  of  yerba  santa , E. ; Extrait  liquids  d’ eriodictyon , Fr. ; Fliissiges  Eriodic- 
tyon-Extraht , G. 

Preparation. — Eriodictyon,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm.  ; Alcohol,  Water,  each  a 
sufficient  quantity;  to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  800  Cc.  of  alcohol  with  200  Cc.  of  water, 
and,  having  moistened  the  powder  with  400  Cc.  of  the  mixture,  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylin- 
drical percolator;  then  add  enough  menstruum  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a stratum 
above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator,  close  the  lower  orifice, 
and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow 
the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  menstruum,  using  the  same  proportions  of 
alcohol  and  water  as  before,  until  the  eriodictyon  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  900 
Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remainder,  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  50°  C. 
(122°  F.),  to  a soft  extract;  dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  men- 
struum to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  10  fluidounces  of  the  men- 
struum (alcohol  4 volumes,  water  1 volume),  and  the  first  22  fluidounces  of  percolate  set 
aside  as  reserve ; the  final  volume  of  the  finished  product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluid- 
ounces. 


EXTR  ACTUM  EUCALYPTI  FLUIDUM.— EUPATORII  FLU  I BUM. 


671 


This  is  another  of  the  new  official  fluid  extracts, — it  is  of  a deep  brownish -green  color, 
pleasantly  aromatic  odor  and  a slightly  astringent  not  disagreeable  taste ; the  menstruum 
perfectly  exhausts  the  drug  and  yields  a stable  preparation. 

Uses. — The  medicinal  virtues  of  mountain  balm  remain  undiscovered.  The  fluid 
extract  may  be  more  convenient  than  chewing  the  fresh  leaf  for  concealing  the  bitterness 
of  quinine. 

EXTRACTUM  EUCALYPTI  FLUIDUM,  V.  S.— Fluid  Extract  of 

Eucalyptus. 

Extrait  liquid e di eucalyptus,  Fr.  ; Flusdges  Eukalyptus-Extrakt.  G. 

Preparation. — Eucalyptus,  in  No.  40  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Alcohol,  Water  each  a 
sufficient  quantity,  to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  750  Cc.  of  alcohol  with  250  Cc.  of  water, 
and,  having  moistened  the  powder  with  400  Cc.  of  the  mixture,  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylin- 
drical percolator  ; then  add  enough  menstruum  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a stratum 
above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator,  close  the  lower  orifice, 
and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow 
the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  menstruum,  using  the  same  proportions  of 
alcohol  and  water  as  before,  until  the  eucalyptus  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  900  Cc. 
of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remainder  to  a soft  extract ; dissolve  this  in  the 
reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  menstruum  to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. 
— U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  eucalyptus  should  be  moistened  with  about  10  fluidounces  of  the  men- 
struum (alcohol  3 volumes,  water  1 volume),  and  the  first  22  fluidounces  of  percolate  set 
aside  as  reserve  ; the  final  volume  of  the  finished  product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluid- 
ounces. 

The  new  official  menstruum  yields  a more  permanent  preparation  than  alcohol  alone, 
as  already  pointed  out  by  A.  Robbins  in  1883. 

Uses. — This  is  probably  the  best  form  in  which  eucalyptus  can  be  administered. 
Bose  Gm.  0.60-1.20  (n^x-xx). 

EXTRACTUM  EUONYMI,  U.  S. — Extract  of  Euonymus. 

Extract  of  wahoo , E. ; Extrait  d'ecorce  de  fusain,  Fr.  ; Spillbaumrinden- Extra  Jet,  G. 

Preparation. — Euonymus,  in  No.  30  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Alcohol,  Water,  each  a 
sufficient  quantity.  Mix  600  Cc.  of  alcohol  with  300  Cc.  of  water,  and,  having  mois- 
tened the  powder  with  400  Cc.  of  the  menstruum,  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  perco- 
lator; then  add  enough  menstruum  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a stratum  above  it. 
When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator  close  the  lower  orifice,  and,  having 
closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow  the  perco- 
lation to  proceed,  gradually  adding  menstruum,  until  3000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained 
or  the  euonymus  is  exhausted.  By  means  of  a water-bath  distil  off  the  alcohol  from 
the  tincture,  and,  having  placed  the  residue  in  a porcelain  capsule,  evaporate  it,  on  a 
water-bath,  to  a pilular  consistence. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  wahoo-bark  should  be  moistened  with  about  10  fluidounces  of  men- 
struum (alcohol  2 volumes,  water  1 volume),  and  percolation  with  the  same  menstruum 
continued  until  75  fluidounces  of  percolate  have  been  obtained. 

The  new  official  menstruum  is  better  than  diluted  alcohol  and  will  thoroughly  exhaust 
the  drug,  the  yield  being  about  25  per  cent,  of  extract  of  a brown  or  yellowish-brown  color. 

Extractum  euonymi  siccum,  Br.  Add. ; Dry  extract  of  euonymus.  1 pound  of  euonymus- 
bark  is  exhausted  with  a mixture  of  equal  volumes  of  rectified  spirit  and  water;  the  percolate  is 
evaporated  to  a soft  extract,  and  while  still  fluid  so  much  sugar  of  milk  is  incorporated  with  it — 
the  amount  having  been  ascertained  experimentally — that  the  final  product  shall  contain  80  per 
cent,  of  the  dry  extractive.  Evaporate  the  mixture  until  it  becomes  brittle  when  cold,  and 
finally  reduce  the  mass  to  powder. 

Uses. — Probably  this  preparation  contains  whatever  virtues  belong  to  euonymus. 
Dose,  about  Gm.  0.30  (gr.  v). 

EXTRACTUM  EUPATORII  FLUIDUM,  U.  S.— Fluid  Extract  of 

Eupatorium. 

Fluid  extract  of  boueset , E. ; Extrait  liquide  d1  evpatoire  perfoliee,  Fr.  ; Fliissiyes  Durch- 
wachsclosten-Extraht , G. 


672 


EXTRACTUM  FRANG  ULJE  FL  UII) UM.—GELSEMII  FLUIBUM. 


Preparation. — Eupatorium,  in  No.  40  powder,  1000  Gm.  ; Diluted  Alcohol  a suf- 
ficient quantity,  to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  400  Cc.  of  diluted  alcohol, 
and  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator  ; then  add  enough  diluted  alcohol  to  saturate 
the  powder  and  leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  per- 
colator close  the  lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for 
forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  diluted 
alcohol,  until  the  eupatorium  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  800  Cc.  of  the  percolate, 
and  evaporate  the  remainder  to  a soft  extract;  dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and' 
add  enough  diluted  alcohol  to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  10  fluidounces  of  diluted 
alcohol,  and  the  first  19 i fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve ; the  final  volume 
of  the  finished  product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

This  fluid  extract  is  of  a dark-greenish  or  brown-red  color,  and  represents  the  virtues 
of  the  drug. 

Uses. — This  preparation  may  be  used  to  obtain  the  tonic  effects  of  eupatorium  in  the 
dose  of  Gm.  4 (^j). 

EXTRACTUM  FRANGUL^E  FLUIDUM,  U.  S.,  P.  G.— Fluid  Extract 

of  Frangula. 

Extractum  Rhamni  Frangulse  liquidum , Br. — Extrait  liquide  decor  ce  de  bourdaine , Fr. ; 
Fliissiges  Faulbaumrinden-Extrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Frangula,  in  No.  40  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Alcohol,  Water,  each  a 
sufficient  quantity,  to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  500  Cc.  of  alcohol  with  800  Cc.  of  water,  and, 
having  moistened  the  powder  with  350  Cc.  of  the  mixture,  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical 
percolator  ; then  add  enough  of  the  menstruum  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a stratum 
above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator  close  the  lower  orifice, 
and.  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow 
the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  menstruum,  until  the  frangula  is  exhausted. 
Reserve  the  first  800  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remainder  to  a soft  extract ; 
dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  menstruum  to  make  the  fluid  extract 
measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  9 fluidounces  of  menstruum 
(alcohol  5 volumes,  water  8 volumes),  and  the  first  19  J fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside 
as  reserve;  the  final  volume  of  the  finished  product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluid- 
ounces. 

The  Pharmacopoeia  has  slightly  increased  the  alcoholic  strength  of  the  menstruum 
over  that  ordered  in  1880  ; experience  has  shown  that  the  new  menstruum  yields  a more 
stable  preparation.  The  fluid  extract  has  a dark  brown-red  color  and  sweetish  bitter 
taste. 

The  Germ.  Ph.  directs  a menstruum  of  3 parts  of  alcohol  and  7 parts  of  water,  both 
by  weight. 

Eptractum  rhamni  frangula,  Br. — Macerate  for  two  days  frangula,  in  No.  40  powder,  1 
•pound,  with  proof  spirit  40  fluidounces  ; percolate  with  water  to  obtain  60  fluidounces,  and 
evaporate.  Bose,  Gm.  1-4  (15  to  60  grains). — Br. 

Extractum  rhamni  frangula  liquidum,  Br. — Boil  frangula  in  coarse  powder,  1 pound  with 
three  or  four  quantities  of  water,  until  exhausted  ; evaporate  to  12  fluidounces,  cool,  add  rectified 
spirit  4 fluidounces,  and  filter.  Bose,  Gm.  4-16  (1  to  4 fluidrachms). 

Uses. — The  action  of  this  laxative  appears  to  be  very  uncertain.  The  dose  of  it  is 
various^  stated  at  Gm.  1—2  (rrpxv-xxx). 

EXTRACTUM  GELSEMII  FLUIDUM,  77.  S.— Fluid  Extract  of  Gel- 

SEMIUM. 

Extrait  liquide  de  gelsemium , Fr.  ; Fliissiges  Gelsemien-Extrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Gelsemium,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Alcohol  a sufficient 
quantity  to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  300  Cc.  of  alcohol,  and  pack  it 
firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator  ; then  add  enough  alcohol  to  saturate  the  powder  and 
leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator  close  the 
lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours. 
Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  alcohol,  until  the  gelsemium  is 
exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  900  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remainder  to  a 


EXTR ACTUM  G ENTIA NjE.—GENTIA NJE  FLUID U3L 


673 


soft  extract ; dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  alcohol  to  make  the 
fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  7 s fluidounees  of  alcohol,  and 
the  first  22  fluidounees  of  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve  ; the  final  volume  of  the  finished 
product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounees. 

Alcohol  is  well  adapted  for  exhausting  gelsemium.  The  fluid  extract  has  a deep  red- 
brown  color  and  the  strong  odor  and  bitter  taste  of  the  drug. 

Extractum  gelsemii  alcoholicum,  Br.,  is  made  with  rectified  spirit.  Dose,  Gm.  0.03-0.12  (£  to 
2 grains). 

USes. — If  used  at  all,  for  which  there  seems  to  be  no  necessity,  great  caution  should 
be  observed,  on  account  of  the  profound  and  even  fatal  depression  it  has  occasioned.  The 
dose  is  from  Gm.  0.30-0.60  (rr^v-x),  beginning  always  with  the  smaller  quantity. 

EXTRACTUM  GENTIANUE,  U.  S.,  Br.,  JP.  G.—  Extract  op  Gentian. 

Extrait  de  gentiane,  Fr. ; Enzian-Extrakt , G. ; Estratto  di  genziana , It. ; Extracto  di 
genciana , Sp. 

Preparation. — Gentian,  in  No.  20  powder,  1000  Gm  ; Water,  a sufficient  quantity. 
Moisten  the  powder  with  400  Cc.  of  water,  and  let  it  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours  ; 
then  pack  it  in  a conical  percolator,  and  gradually  pour  water  upon  it  until  the  infusion 
passes  but  slightly  imbued  with  the  properties  of  the  gentian.  Reduce  the  liquid  to 
three-fourths  of  its  weight  by  boiling,  and  strain ; then  by  means  of  a water-bath 
evaporate  to  a pilular  consistence. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  gentian  should  be  macerated  with  10  fluidounees  of  cold  water  for 
forty-eight  hours  before  being  packed  for  percolation. 

The  British  Pharmacopoeia  alone  directs  boiling  with  water  for  exhausting  gentian- 
root,  while  the  United  States,  French,  and  German  Pharmacopoeias  exhaust  with  cold 
water,  the  albumen  being  removed  from  the  infusion  by  boiling.  The  long-continued 
boiling  directed  by  the  U.  S.  P.  until  one-fourth  of  the  solution  has  evaporated  is  not 
necessary.  Cold  water  is  preferable  for  exhausting  gentian,  since  it  dissolves  all  of  the 
bitter  principle  without  taking  up  the  whole  of  the  pectin  compounds,  which  enter  into 
solution  in  hot  water.  An  extract  prepared  with  the  latter  has  a gelatinous  appearance, 
though  not  in  the  same  degree  as  if  made  by  prolonged  boiling  with  water.  The  yield 
by  cold  water  approaches,  or  sometimes  exceeds,  30  per  cent,  of  the  weight  of  the  dry 
root,  and  the  yellowish-brown  extract  yields  with  water  a nearly  clear  solution. 

Uses. — This  extract  contains  all  the  virtues  of  gentian  in  a form  convenient  for 
administration.  It  is,  however,  most  generally  used  as  an  excipient  for  other  tonics,  and 
especially  for  iron  and  quinia.  The  dose  is  from  Gm.  0.16-0.60  (gr.  iij—  x). 

EXTRACTUM  GENTIANS  FLUIDUM,  V.  S.— Fluid  Extract  of 

Gentian. 

Extra.it  liquide  de  gentiane , Fr. ; Flilssiges  Enzian-Extrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Gentian,  in  No.  30  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Diluted  Alcohol  a sufficient 
quantity,  to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  350  Cc.  of  diluted  alcohol,  and 
pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator  ; then  add  enough  diluted  alcohol  to  saturate 
the  powder  and  leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the 
percolator  close  the  lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for 
forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  diluted 
alcohol,  until  the  gentian  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  800  Cc.  of  the  percolate.  By 
means  of  a water-bath  distil  off  the  alcohol  from  the  remainder  and  evaporate  the  residue 
to  a soft  extract ; dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  diluted  alcohol 
to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  gentian  should  be  moistened  with  about  9 fluidounees  of  menstruum, 
and  the  first  19?  fluidounees  of  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve ; the  final  volume  of  the 
finished  product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounees  The  bitter  principle  of  gentian 
is  perfectly  soluble  in  water,  but  a certain  amount  of  alcohol  is  necessary  for  preventing 
fermentation. 

Uses. — It  may  be  employed  for  all  the  purposes  of  the  bitter  tonics,  but  it  is  seldom 
prescribed  alone.  It  may  also  be  used  to  reinforce  the  tonic  properties  of  the  compound 
tincture  of  gentian  and  other  liquid  tonic  preparations.  Dose , Gm.  2 (fgss.) 

43 


674 


EXT R ACTUM  GERANII  FL UID UM.—GL YCYRRHIZJE. 


EXTRAOTUM  GERANII  FLUIDUM,  77.  -Fluid  Extract  of  Ge- 
ranium. 

Exlrait  liquid e de  geranium  macule , Fr. ; Fliissiges  Fleckstorchschnabel- Extrakt :,  G. 
Preparation. — Geranium,  in  No.  30  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Glycerin  100  Cc. ; Diluted 
Alcohol  a sufficient  quantity,  to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  glycerin  with  900  Cc.  of 
diluted  alcohol,  and,  having  moistened  the  powder  with  350  Cc.  of  the  mixture,  pack  it 
firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator  ; then  add  enough  menstruum  to  saturate  the  powder 
and  leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator  close 
the  lower  orifice,  and  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight 
hours.  Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding,  first,  the  remainder  of 
the  menstruum,  and,  afterward  diluted  alcohol,  until  the  geranium  is  exhausted.  Re- 
serve the  first  700  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remainder  to  a soft  extract; 
dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  diluted  alcohol  to  make  the  fluid 
extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  9 fluidounces  of  the  men- 
struum (diluted  alcohol  214  fluidounces,  glycerin  24  fluidounces),  and  the  first  174  fluid- 
ounces  of  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve ; after  the  24  fluidounces  of  menstruum  have 
been  used,  percolation  is  to  be  continued  with  diluted  alcohol.  The  final  volume  of  the 
finished  product  is  to  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

It  is  a dark  reddish-brown  fluid  extract  of  a strongly  astringent  taste. 

The  menstruum  of  1880  has  been  retained,  although  A.  Robbins  in  1883  pointed  out 
that  an  increase  in  the  alcoholic  strength  would  no  doubt  overcome  the  tendency  to  par- 
tial gelatinization,  and  even  suggested  the  entire  omission  of  water. 

Uses. — Fluid  extract  of  geranium  is  an  excellent  substitute  for  the  liquid  prepara- 
tions of  catechu  and  other  simple  astringents.  Dose,  from  Gm.  2-8  (f^ss-ij). 

EXTRAOTUM  GLY C YRRHIZiE,  77.  8.,  Br.— Extract  of  Glycyrrhiza. 

Succus  liquor itise,  P.  G. ; Extractum  liquiritise. — Liquorice , Extract  of  liquorice , E.  ; 
Sue  ( jus ) de  reglisse , Sucre  noir , Fr. ; Lakriz , Lakrizensaft,  G. ; Estratto  di  liquirizia , 
It. 

The  commercial  extract  of  the  root  of  Glycyrrhiza  glabra,  Linne. 

Preparation. — Liquorice  is  prepared  for  commercial  purposes  in  the  southern  por- 
tion of  Europe  and  in  this  country.  The  fresh  root  is  mostly  employed,  but  the  dried 
root  will  likewise  answer  the  purpose.  The  root  is  crushed  to  a pulpy  mass  or  broken 
into  a coarse  powder,  and  then  boiled  with  water  over  a naked  fire  or  by  steam.  The 
liquor  is  expressed,  allowed  to  settle,  and  decanted,  or,  for  the  common  qualities,  together 
with  the  fine  pulpy  matter  evaporated  by  boiling  and  continued  stirring  until  the  mass 
has  attained  the  proper  consistence  to  be  rolled  out  into  sticks  of  a certain  weight,  a por- 
tion of  olive  oil  being  used  to  prevent  it  from  adhering  to  the  hands  and  the  table.  The 
sticks  are  made  of  an  adopted  length  and  thickness,  stamped  with  the  initials  or  name  of 
the  manufacturer  or  of  the  town  where  the  factory  is  located,  and  finally  dried.  Rus- 
sian liquorice-root  is  likewise  used  in  the  manufacture  of  liquorice. 

On  exhausting  the  root  with  hot  or  cold  water  hygroscopic  extracts  are  obtained,  but 
on  treating  the  root  now  with  steam  Delondre  (1856)  observed  that  a considerable  amount 
of  matter  was  dissolved,  which,  on  evaporating  the  solution,  was  friable,  without  attract- 
ing moisture,  and  had  a sweet  taste  without  acridity.  It  is  this  substance,  consisting  of 
altered  glycyrrhizin,  together  with  the  starch  contained  in  the  root,  which  gives  firmness 
to  the  commercial  extract.  Previous  to  1878  over  1,000,000  pounds  of  liquorice  were 
annually  imported  into  the  United  States.  Since  1878  the  quantity  imported  has  varied 
between  692,919  and  874,044  pounds  in  1881,  and  a considerable  quantity  is  manufac- 
tured here. 

Description. — Liquorice  appears  in  commerce  packed  in  boxes  between  layers  of 
laurel-leaves  (Laurus  nobilis,  Linne ,)  to  prevent  the  sticks  from  adhering ; in  Southern 
Russia  oak-leaves  are  used  for  the  same  purpose.  Besides  the  liquorice  of  American 
manufacture,  two  principal  varieties  are  distinguished  in  our  commerce,  the  Sicilian  and 
Calabrian  or  Spanish.  The  former  is  in  thin  sticks  6 to  9 Mm.  (4  to  f inch)  in  diam- 
eter, of  a dull-black  color,  frequently  of  an  empyreumatic  taste,  and  generally  very 
impure.  The  latter  is  in  larger  sticks,  15  to  25  Mm.  (f  to  1 inch)  in  diameter,  15  to 
17  Cm.  (6  to  6|  inches)  long,  black  and  somewhat  glossy  externally,  slightly  flexible 
except  at  a low  temperature,  and  breaking  with  a sharp  conchoidal  and  shining  fracture ; 


EXTRACT!! M GL YCYRRHIZTE  PTJRUM. 


675 


some  small  cavities  may  usually  be  found  in  the  interior.  The  products  of  the  different 
manufacturers  of  this  liquorice  differ  from  one  another  not  only  in  the  size  of  the  sticks, 
but  often  by  marked  differences  in  their  odor  and  taste  ; while  some  specimens  are  almost 
purely  sweet,  others  are  persistently  acrid  and  empyreumatic.  For  medicinal  purposes 
liquorice  should  be  almost  devoid  of  acridity. 

Placed  in  cold  water,  a portion  of  the  liquorice  is  dissolved,  but  the  residue  retains  the 
shape  of  the  sticks  ; after  the  addition  of  a little  ammonia  to  the  water,  Rump  (1855) 
observed  the  liquid  to  become  again  colored,  and  again  to  acquire  a sweet  taste  from  dis- 
solving fresh  portions  of  glycyrrhizin.  The  amount  soluble  in  cold  water  varies  consid- 
erably, and  reaches  in  the  best  brands  about  70  to  75  per  cent,  of  the  dried  liquorice,  but 
the  percentage  is  usually  a little  less  than  this.  “Not  less  than  60  per  cent,  of  the  extract 
should  be  soluble  in  cold  water.’' — U.  S.  “After  drying  100  parts  of  liquorice  at  100°  C. 
(212°  F.)  it  should  weigh  at  least  83  parts.  On  exhausting  air-dry  liquorice  with  water 
of  not  over  50°  C.  (122°  F.),  the  residue  dried  in  a water-bath  should  not  exceed  25  per 
cent.,  and  when  examined  under  the  microscope  should  not  show  any  starch-granules.” 
—P.  G. 

Under  the  name  of  Italian  liquorice  an  impure  article  in  thin  sticks  is  met  with,  and 
the  so-called  refined  liquorice  of  the  shops  is  in  still  thinner  cylindrical  and  glossy  pieces, 
likewise  impure  and  readily  attacked  by  insects.  Pontefract  cakes  are  small  liquorice 
lozenges  which  are  much  used  in  England.  Corigliano  and  Barracco  are  the  foreign  brands 
most  esteemed  in  the  United  States ; Solazzi  juice  is  highly  valued  in  England. 

Constituents. — Liquorice  contains  glycyrrhizin,  free  (soluble  in  ammonia)  and  in 
combination  with  ammonia  (soluble  in  cold  water)  ; also  starch,  modified  by  long  boiling, 
sugar,  a little  acrid  resinous  matter,  from  8.4  to  17  per  cent,  of  moisture,  and  from  6 to 
9 per  cent,  of  ash.  Madsen  (1881)  treated  the  concentrated  aqueous  solution  of  liquorice 
with  cold  alkaline  solution  of  copper,  ignited  the  precipitate,  and  calculated  the  sugar 
from  the  cupric  oxide  obtained  ; the  amount  varied  between  11  and  15  per  cent.,  which 
is  probably  too  high.  For  estimating  the  gum,  the  infusion  was  precipitated  by  alcohol, 
the  well-washed  precipitate  dissolved  in  water,  this  solution  precipitated  by  cupric  sul- 
phate and  soda,  the  precipitate  washed  with  dilute  soda,  dissolved  in  hydrochloric  acid, 
and  this  solution  precipitated  by  alcohol ; good  liquorice  yielded  from  1.5  to  4.4  per  cent, 
of  arabin. 

Impurities  and  Adulterations. — Fragments  of  vegetable  tissue  are  generally 
present  to  some  extent;  shreds  of  copper  are  sometimes  also  met  with,  and  result  from 
careless  scraping  of  the  evaporating-pans.  The  fraudulent  additions  usually  consist  of 
farinaceous  matters,  gum,  glucose,  and  mineral  compounds ; the  latter  are  estimated  in 
the  ash.  Starch  may  sometimes  be  seen  in  little  lumps  in  the  interior  of  the  sticks,  and 
if  not  altered  by  heat  may  be  recognized  by  the  microscope.  Gum  added  frauduently  is 
detected  in  the  precipitate  which  takes  place  on  the  addition  of  an  equal  bulk  of  alcohol 
to  the  cold  aqueous  solution  (see  above).  Grape-sugar  will  cause  the  solution  of  liquorice 
in  cold  water  to  be  of  a lighter  color ; it  may  be  estimated  after  removing  gum  by 
alcohol  and  glycyrrhizin  by  sulphuric  acid. 

EXTRAOTUM  GL Y C YRRHIZ^E  PURUM,  U.  S.— Pure  Extract  of 

Glycyrrhiza. 

Extrait  de  reglisse , Fr.  ; Siissholz- Extrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Glycyrrhiza,  in  No.  20  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Ammonia-water,  150  Cc. ; 
Distilled  Water  a sufficient  quantity.  Mix  the  ammonia-water  with  1000  Cc.  of  distilled 
water,  and  having  moistened  the  powder  with  1000  Cc.  of  the  menstruum,  let  it  mace- 
rate for  twenty-four  hours.  Then  pack  it  moderately  in  a cylindrical  glass  percolator, 
and  gradually  pour  upon  it,  first,  the  remainder  of  the  menstruum,  and  then  distilled 
water,  until  the  glycyrrhiza  is  exhausted.  Lastly,  by  means  of  a water-bath,  evaporate 
the  infusion  to  a pilular  consistence. — IT.  S. 

The  ammonia  is  intended  to  dissolve  any  glycyrrhizin  which  may  be  present  in  the 
powdered  root  in  the  insoluble  condition,  and  to  prevent  its  becoming  insoluble  from  the 
loss  of  ammonia  during  evaporation.  The  yield  is  from  16  to  20,  or  even  25,  per  cent. 
The  extract  is  of  a brown  color  and  of  a sweet  taste ; it  is  used  for  preparing  Mistura 
glycyrrhizae  composita,  U.  S.  It  yields  a clear  solution  with  water,  as  does  also  the 
following : 

Other  Extracts  of  Liquorice. — Extractum  glycyrrhizae,  Br. ; Extractum  liquiritiaE  radi- 
cis,  P.  G.  1872.  This  extract  is  practically  identical  with  that  of  the  French  Codex,  except  that 


676 


EXTRACTUM  GLYCYRRHIZA  FLU  ID  U3I. 


the  latter  exhausts  the  root  by  displacement  with  distilled  water  at  a temperature  of  15°  to  20°  C. 
(59°  to  68°  F.)  ; the  following  is  the  formula  : Take  of  liquorice-root,  in  No.  20  powder,  1 pound ; 
distilled  water,  4 pints.  Macerate  the  liquorice-root  with  2 pints  of  the  water  for  12  hours, 
strain,  and  press  5 again  macerate  the  pressed  marc  with  the  remainder  of  the  water  for  6 hours, 
strain,  and  press.  Mix  the  strained  liquors,  heat  them  to  100°  C.  (212°  F.),  and  strain  through 
flannel ; then  evaporate  by  a water-bath  until  the  extract  is  of  a suitable  consistence  for  forming 
pills. — Bv. 

SUCCUS  LIQUIRITIM  DEPURATUS,  P.  G.,  S.  ExTRACTUM  GLYCYRRHIZM  DEPURATUM. Purified 

liquorice,  E.  ; Extrait  de  sue  de  reglisse,  Fr.  ; Gereinigter  Lakriz,  G. — It  is  recognized  by  several 
European  pharmacopoeias,  and  is  made  by  alternately  placing  layers  of  washed  straw  and  broken 
liquorice  in  a cylindrical  vessel  and  covering  the  material  with  cold  water.  As  the  water  becomes 
saturated  it  is  withdrawn  through  a faucet  below,  and  replaced  by  fresh  water  until  but  little 
color  and  taste  are  imparted  to  it.  The  perfectly  clear  liquids  are  then  evaporated  to  the  con- 
sistence of  an  extract,  which  should  yield  a clear  solution  with  water.  The  yield  is  50  to  60 
per  cent.  For  convenience  in  dispensing,  a concentrated  solution  of  definite  strength  is  often 
kept  on  hand.  To  remove  the  resinous  matter,  which  imparts  a disagreeable  acrid  taste,  Unge- 
witter  (1875)  suggests  the  digesting  of  the  stick  liquorice  in  strong  alcohol  and  afterward  exhaust- 
ing  it  with  cold  water. 

Elixir  e.succo  liquiritim,  P.  G.  Purified  liquorice  10  parts  is  dissolved  in  30  parts  of  fennel- 
water  ; the  solution  is  mixed  with  anisated  spirit  of  ammonia  10  parts. 

Uses. — Extract  of  liquorice  is  protective,  lenitive,  and  demulcent ; it  also  excites 
the  secretions  of  the  fauces,  and  perhaps  of  the  larynx.  It  is  chiefly  employed 
in  irritable  conditions  of  these  parts,  in  sore  throat , laryngitis , and  bronchitis.  It 
may  be  conveniently  used  by  allowing  small  fragments  of  it  to  dissolve  in  the  mouth, 
or  by  adding  it  to  the  various  syrups,  lozenges,  and  mixtures  appropriate  to  these  objects. 
It  sometimes  appears  to  prevent  flatulence  depending  upon  fermentation  of  the  food,  for 
which  purpose  a piece  as  large  as  a grain  of  wheat  may  be  taken  after  meals.  “ Pure 
extract  of  liquorice  ” (£7.  S.  P.  1890)  is  still  more  appropriate  to  the  purposes  designated 
than  the  ordinary  extract. 

EXTRACTUM  GLYCYRRHIZM  FLUIDUM,  U.  S.— Fluid  Extract  of 

Glycyrrhiza, 

Extr  actum  glycyrrhizse  liquidum , Br. — Liquid  extract  of  liquorice-root , E. ; Extrait 
liquide  de  reglisse , Fr. ; Fliissiges  Siissholz-Extrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Glycyrrhiza,  in  No.  40  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Ammonia-water,  50  Cc. ; 
Alcohol,  Water,  each,  a sufficient  quantity,  to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  ammonia- 
water  with  300  Cc.  of  alcohol  and  650  Cc.  of  water,  and,  having  moistened  the 
powder  with  350  Cc.  of  the  mixture,  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  glass  percolator ; 
then  add  enough  menstruum  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a stratum  above 
it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator  close  the  lower  orifice,  and, 
having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow  the 
percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding,  first,  the  remainder  of  the  menstruum,  and  then 
a mixture  of  alcohol  and  water  made  in  the  proportion  of  300  Cc.  of  alcohol  and  650  Cc. 
of  water,  until  the  glycyrrhiza  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  750  Cc.  of  the  percolate, 
and  evaporate  the  remainder  to  a soft  extract ; dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and 
add  enough  of  the  mixture  of  alcohol  and  water  to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000 
Cc.—  U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  liquorice-root  should  be  moistened  with  about  9 fluidounces  of  the  men- 
struum composed  of  alcohol  7i  fluidounces,  water  15f  fluidounces,  and  ammonia-water  li 
fluidounces ; when  this  quantity  of  menstruum  has  been  used,  percolation  is  continued 
with  a mixture  of  3 volumes  of  alcohol  and  6J  volumes  of  water.  The  first  18?  fluid- 
ounces  of  percolate  should  be  set  aside  as  reserve,  and  the  final  volume  of  finished  prod- 
uct made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

The  present  official  menstruum  is  decidedly  preferable  to  that  of  1880  in  containing 
less  alcohol. 

Take  of  liquorice-root,  in  No.  20  powder,  1 pound  ; distilled  water  4 pints.  Macerate  the 
liquorice-root  with  2 pints  of  the  water  for  twelve  hours,  strain,  and  press  ; again  macerate 
the  pressed  marc  with  the  remainder  of  the  water  for  six  hours,  strain,  and  press.  Mix 
the  strained  liquors,  heat  them  to  212°  F.,  and  strain  through  flannel ; then  evaporate  by 
a water-bath  until  it  has  acquired,  when  cold,  a specific  gravity  of  1.160  ; add  to  this  one- 
sixth  of  its  volume  of  rectified  spirit;  let  the  mixture  stand  for  twelve  hours,  and  filter. — 
Br. 

Uses. — The  fluid  extract  of  liquorice-root  is  a very  agreeable  substitute  for  the 
simple  extract  of  liquorice  in  flavoring  cough  medicines  and  concealing  acrid  tastes. 


EXTRACTUM  GOSSYPII  RADICIS  FL UID VM.—G UARA XJE  FLUID UM.  677 


Elixir  of  liquorice  is  too  stimulating  to  be  used  in  the  former,  but  may  be  used  advan- 
tageously in  the  latter,  manner. 

EXTRACTUM  GOSSYPII  RADICIS  FLUIDUM,  U.  S.— Fluid  Extract  - 

of  Cotton-root  Bark. 

Extrait  liquide  d' ecorce  de  cotonnier , Fr. ; Flussiges  Baumwollwurzel-Extrakt,  G. 

Preparation. — Cotton-root  Bark  in  No.  30  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Glycerin  250  Cc. ; Alco- 
hol a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  theglycerin  with  750  Cc.  of  alcohol,  and, 
having  moistened  the  powder  with  500  Cc.  of  the  mixture,  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical 
percolator  and  pour  on  the  remainder  of  -the  menstruum.  When  the  liquid  begins  to 
drop  from  the  percolator  close  the  lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percola- 
tor, macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  and  when  the 
Kquid  in  the  percolator  has  disappeared  from  the  surface  gradually  pour  on  alcohol,  and 
continue  the  percolation  until  the  cotton-root  bark  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  700 
Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remainder  to  a soft  extract ; dissolve  this  in  the 
reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  alcohol  to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — 

U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  cotton-root  bark  should  be  moistened  with  about  12  fluidounces  of  men- 
struum, composed  of  alcohol  18  fluidounces  and  glycerin  6 fluidounces,  and  when  this 
menstruum  has  all  been  used,  percolation  is  to  be  continued  with  alcohol.  The  first  17? 
fluidounces  of  percolate  should  be  set  aside  as  reserve,  and  the  final  volume  of  finished 
product  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

The  present  official  menstruum  is  better  than  that  of  1880  in  containing  less  glycerin, 
but  experience  has  shown  that  a most  satisfactory  fluid  extract  will  be  obtained  if  a 
menstruum  be  employed  composed  of  alcohol  6 volumes,  water  3 volumes,  and  glycerin 
1 volume. 

Fresh  or  recently-dried  bark  appears  to  yield  a more  effectual  preparation  than  old 
bark.  The  fluid  extract  has  a bright  brownish-red  color. 

Uses. — It  is  used  chiefly  as  a substitute  for  ergot,  as  an  oxytocic  and  emmenagogue, 
and  may  be  given  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  2 (f^sss)  or  more. 

EXTRACTUM  GRINDELLE  FLUIDUM,  U.  S.— Fluid  Extract  of 

Grindelia. 

Extrait  liquide  de  grindelia , Fr.  ; Flussiges  Grindelienextrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Grindelia,  in  No.  30  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Alcohol,  a sufficient  quan- 
tity, to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  300  Cc.  of  alcohol,  and  pack  it  firmly 
in  a cylindrical  percolator ; then  add  enough  alcohol  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a 
stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator,  close  the 
lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight 
hours.  Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  alcohol,  until  the 
grindelia  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  850  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  evaporate  the 
remainder  to  a soft  extract;  dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  men- 
struum to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — XJ.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  7\  fluidounces  of  alcohol,  and 
the  first  21  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve  ; the  final  volume  of  finished  prod- 
uct should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

The  official  menstruum  has  been  changed  to  pure  alcohol  in  conformity  with  the  sug- 
gestions of  A.  Robbins  and  others,  who  found  the  fluid  extract  to  keep  better  when  made 
with  alcohol  alone  ; some  authorities  still  claim,  however,  that  a mixture  of  alcohol  3 
volumes  and  water  1 volume  is  a better  menstruum. 

This  fluid  extract  is  of  a brown-green  color.  The  active  principles  are,  most  likely, 
volatile  oil  and  resin,  and  these  require  alcohol  for  solution. 

Uses. — This  preparation  contains  all  the  virtues  of  grindelia.  Dose,  Gm.  0. G0-1. 20 
(npx-xx). 

EXTRACTUM  GUARANI  FLUIDUM,  U.  S.— Fluid  Extract  of 

Guarana. 

Extrait  liquide  de  guarana , Fr. ; Flussiges  Guarana- Extrakt,  G. 

Preparation. — Guarana,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm.  ; Alcohol,  Water,  each  a suf- 
ficient quantity;  to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  750  Cc.  of  alcohol  with  250  Cc.  of  water,  and, 


678 


EXTRACTUM  HJEMA  TOX  YLI.—HA  MA  ME  LIB  IS  FLUID  UM. 


having  moistened  the  powder  with  200  Cc.  of  the  mixture,  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical 
percolator ; then  add  enough  of  the  menstruum  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a stra- 
tum above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator  close  the  lower  orifice, 
and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow 
the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  menstruum,  until  the  guarana  is  exhausted. 
Reserve  the  first  800  Cc.  of  the  percolate.  By  means  of  a water-bath  distil  off  the 
alcohol  from  the  remainder,  and  evaporate  the  residue  to  a soft  extract ; dissolve  this  in 
the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  menstruum  to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure 
1000  Cc. — TJ.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  guarana  should  be  moistened  with  about  5 fluidounces  of  menstruum 
(alcohol  3 volumes,  water  1 volume),  and  the  first  191  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside 
as  reserve ; the  final  volume  of  finished  product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

Fluid  extract  of  guarana  has  been  in  use  for  a number  of  years,  but  in  the  endeavor 
to  obtain  it  as  little  alcoholic  as  possihle  many  of  the  preparations  formerly  used  gradu- 
ally formed  heavy  deposits.  Experience  has  shown  that  the  present  official  menstruum 
yields  very  satisfactory  results ; the  alcoholic  strength  very  closely  approaches  that  sug- 
gested by  A.  Bobbins  in  1883,  which  was  2 parts  of  alcohol  and  1 of  water,  by  weight. 

The  fluid  extract  is  of  a deep  red-brown  color  and  has  an  astringent  and  bitter  taste. 

Uses. — It  represents  guarana  efficiently.  Dose , Gm.  0.60-1.20  (np  x-xx)  and  up- 
ward. 

EXTR ACTUM  HiEMATOXYLI,  TJ.  S.,  Br. — Extract  of  Hjematox- 

ylon. 

Extraction  ligni  campechiani. — Extract  of  logwood , E. ; Extrait  de  hois  de  Campeche , 
Fr. ; Campecheholz-Extrakt,  G. 

Preparation. — Haematoxylon,  rasped,  1000  Gm. ; Water,  1000  Cc.  Macerate  the 
haematoxylon  with  the  water  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  boil,  avoiding  the  use  of 
metallic  vessels,  until  one-half  of  the  water  has  evaporated ; strain  the  decoction  while 
hot,  and  evaporate  to  dryness. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  rasped  logwood  should  be  macerated  with  2 gallons  of  water  for  forty- 
eight  hours,  and  then  boiled,  as  directed  above. 

This  process  somewhat  corresponds  with  that  of  the  British  Pharmacopoeia,  which 
orders  infusion  with  boiling  distilled  water  for  twenty-four  hours,  boiling  to  one-half,  and 
finally  evaporating  by  a water-bath,  stirring  with  a wooden  spatula.  The  yield  is  about 
12  per  cent.,  occasionally  as  low  as  6 per  cent.  The  extract  is  not  hygroscopic ; it  is  of 
a red-brown  color  and  a sweet  afterward  astringent  taste.  It  yields  with  water  a red 
and  almost  clear  solution.  It  is  prepared  on  a large  scale  for  uses  in  the  arts.  (For 
composition  compare  Haimatoxylon.) 

Uses. — The  extract  has  the  medicinal  qualities  of  the  wood,  and  does  not  lose  them 
by  keeping.  It  may  be  administered  ip  doses  of  Gm.  0.60  (gr.  x)  or  more,  and  in  solu- 
tion rather  than  in  pills,  which  in  time  grow  very  hard. 

EXTRAOTUM  HAMAMELIDIS  FLUIDUM,  TJ.  8.— Fluid  Extract 

of  Hamamelis. 

Extractum  Hamamelidis  liquidvm , Br.  Add. — Liquid  extract  of  hamamelis , E. ; 
Extrait  liquide  de  hamamelis , Fr. ; Fliissiges  Hamamelis- Extraht,  G. 

Preparation. — Hamamelis,  in  No.  40  powder,  1000  Gm.;  Glycerin,  100  Cc. ; 
Alcohol,  Water,  each  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  glycerin  with 
500  Cc.  of  alcohol  and  800  Cc.  of  water,  and,  having  moistened  the  powder  with  350  Cc. 
of  the  mixture,  pack  it  firmly  in  a percolator ; then  add  enough  menstruum  to  saturate 
the  powder  and  leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the 
percolator  close  the  lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate 
for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding,  first, 
the  remainder  of  the  menstruum,  and  then  a mixture  of  alcohol  and  water,  made  in  the 
proportion  of  500  Cc.  of  alcohol  to  800  Cc.  of  water,  until  the  hamamelis  is  exhausted. 
Reserve  the  first  850  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remainder  to  a soft  extract  ; 
dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  menstruum  to  make  the  fluid 
extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  9 fluidounces  of  menstruum, 
composed  of  alcohol  81  fluidounces,  water  13]  fluidounces,  glycerin  21  fluidounces,  and 


EXTRACT UM  HYDRASTIS  FLUID  UM.—HY0SCYA3II  ALCOHOLICUM.  679 


the  first  21  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve.  Subsequent  percolation  is  to 
be  continued  with  a mixture  of  alcohol  5 volumes  and  water  8 volumes,  and  the  final 
volume  of  finished  product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

The  Br.  Ph.  directs  a menstruum  composed  of  1 volume  alcohol,  sp.  gr.  0.838  (rectified 
spirit)  and  2 volumes  of  water,  to  be  used  for  exhausting  the  leaves. 

This  fluid  extract  is  of  a brown  color,  and  has  the  astringent  and  bitter  taste  of  the 
leaves.  The  substitution  of  glycerin  for  a portion  of  the  water  will  probably  give  a 
better  menstruum  and  yield  a more  permanent  preparation. 

Uses. — This  preparation  contains  all  the  virtues  of  hamamelis,  which  is  elsewhere 
described.  Dose,  Gm.  0.60-1.20  (i^x-xx). 

EXTRACTUM  HYDRASTIS  FLUIDUM,  U.  S.,  P.  £.-Fluid  Extract 

of  Hydrastis. 

Extractum  Hydrastis  liquidum , Br.  Add. — Extrait  liquide  de  hydrastis,  Fr. ; Fliissiges 
Hydrastis- Ext rakt , G. ; Estratto  di  idraste  liquido,  It. 

Preparation. — Hydrastis,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Glycerin,  100  Cc. ; Alco- 
hol, Water,  each  a sufficient  quantity,  to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  glycerin  with  600  Cc. 
of  alcohol  and  300  Cc.  of  water,  and,  having  moistened  the  powder  with  300  Cc.  of  the 
mixture,  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator ; then  add  enough  of  the  menstruum 
to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop 
from  the  percolator,  close  the  lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator, 
macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  add- 
ing, first,  the  remainder  of  the  menstruum,  and  then  a mixture  of  alcohol  and  water, 
made  in  the  proportion  of  600  Cc.  of  alcohol  to  300  Cc.  of  water,  until  the  hydrastis 
is  exhausted.  Reverse  the  first  850  Cc.  of  the  percolate.  By  means  of  a water-bath, 
distil  off  the  alcohol  from  the  remainder,  and  evaporate  the  residue  to  a soft  extract ; 
dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  menstruum  to  make  the  fluid 
extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  7£  fluidounces  of  menstruum, 
composed  of  alcohol  144  fluidounces,  water  71  fluidounces,  glycerin  2?  fluidounces,  and 
the  first  21  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve.  Subsequent  percolation  is  to  be 
continued  with  a mixture  of  alcohol  2 volumes,  water  1 volume,  and  the  final  volume 
of  finished  product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

The  introduction  of  glycerin  into  the  official  menstruum  will  prove  of  decided  advan- 
tage and  add  to  the  permanency  of  the  preparation. 

The  fluid  extract  of  the  Br.  Pharm.  is  prepared  with  diluted  alcohol. 

The  Germ.  Pharm.  directs  the  extraction  of  hydrastis  with  a mixture  of  7 parts  of 
alcohol  and  3 parts  of  water,  both  by  weight. 

The  fluid  extract  has  a deep  brown-yellow  color  and  the  strongly  bitter  taste  of  the  root. 

Uses. — This  is  a convenient  and  efficient  form  of  the  medicine.  Dose , Gm.  4 (f^j) 
two  or  three  times  a day. 

EXTRACTUM  HYOSCYAMI  ALCOHOLICUM,  U.  S.,  Br.— Extract 

of  Hyoscyamus. 

Extract  of  henbane , E.  ; Extrait  alcoolique  de  feuilles  de  jusquiame , Fr. ; Spiritubses 
Bilsenkraut-Extrakt , G.  ; Estratto  di  giusquiamo , It. 

Preparation. — Hyoscyamus,  recently  dried,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm.  ; Alcohol, 
2000  Cc. ; Water,  1000  Cc. ; Diluted  Alcohol,  a sufficient  quantity.  Mix  the  alcohol 
and  water,  and,  having  moistened  the  powder  with  400  Cc.  of  the  mixture,  pack  it  firmly 
in  a cylindrical  percolator;  then  add  enough  of  the  menstruum  to  saturate  the  powder 
and  leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator  close 
the  lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight 
hours.  Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding,  first,  the  remainder*  of 
the  menstruum,  and  then  diluted  alcohol,  until  3000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained  or  the 
hyoscyamus  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  900  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  evaporate  the 
remainder,  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  50  C.  (122°  F.),  to  a soft  extract;  mix  this 
with  the  reserved  portion,  and  evaporate,  at  or  below  the  before-mentioned  temperature, 
to  a pilular  consistence. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  16  fluidounces  of  the  men- 
struum composed  of  alcohol  3 pints,  water  1£  pints,  and,  after  A\  pints  of  menstruum 


680  EXTBACTUM  HYOSCYAMI  FLU1DUM.— IPECACUANHA  FLUIDUM. 


have  been  used,  percolation  is  to  be  continued  with  diluted  alcohol ; about  72  fluidounces 
of  percolate  will  be  necessary. 

Since  diluted  alcohol  will  completely  exhaust  hyoscyamus-leaves,  we  see  no  reason 
why  the  menstruum  for  this  and  the  next  following  preparation  should  not  have  been 
reduced  to  alcohol  3 volumes,  water  2 volumes  ; moreover,  experience  has  shown  this 
weaker  menstruum  to  yield  very  satisfactory  results. 

The  extract  has  a green-brown  color  and  the  heavy  odor  of  hyoscyamus.  The  leaves 
yield  from  20  to  26  per  cent,  of  extract,  the  seed  about  16  per  cent.  ; the  latter  extract 
is  used  to  some  extent  in  Europe. 

Extractum  hyoscyami,  Hr.,  P.  G.,  is  the  inspissated  juice  of  the  fresh  leaves  and 
branches  prepared  like  the  inspissated  juices  of  other  narcotic  herbs.  The  yield  varies 
from  2.5  to  3.5  or  4 per  cent.  The  color  of  the  extract  is  brown-green  (Hr.)  or  greenish- 
brown  (P.  G.). 

The  crystals  observed  in  old  extracts,  according  to  Attfield  (1862),  are  potassium 
nitrate. 

Uses. — This  preparation,  like  the  former  simple  extract,  is  one  of  the  most  variable 
in  strength  of  all  narcotic  extracts.  Its  minimum  dose,  Gm.  0.10  (gr.  ij),  should  be 
rapidly  increased  until  the  characteristic  effects  of  the  medicine  are  produced. 

EXTRACTUM  HYOSCYAMI  FLUIDUM,  77.  S.— Fluid  Extract  of 

Hyoscyamus. 

Extrait  liquide  de  jusquiame,  Fr.  ; Fliissiges  Hilsenkraut-Extrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Hyoscyamus,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm.  ; Alcohol,  Water,  each  a 
sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  2000  Cc.  alcohol  with  1000  Cc.  of  water, 
and,  having  moistened  the  powder  with  400  Cc.  of  the  mixture,  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylin- 
drical percolator ; then  add  enough  of  the  menstruum  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave 
a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator  close  the  lower 
orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then 
allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  menstruum,  until  the  hyoscyamus  is 
exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  900  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remainder,  at  a 
temperature  not  exceeding  50°  C.  (122°  F.),  to  a soft  extract;  dissolve  this  in  the 
reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  menstruum  to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000 
Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  10  fluidounces  of  menstruum 
(alcohol  2 volumes,  water  1 volume),  and  the  first  22  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside 
as  reserve ; the  final  volume  of  finished  product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

(For  remarks  concerning  the  menstruum  see  preceding  article.) 

The  fluid  extract  is  of  a deep  green-brown  color,  has  the  heavy  odor  of  the  drug, 
and  keeps  well. 

Uses. — The  fluid  extract  is  a good  representative  of  hyoscyamus,  and  may  be  pre- 
scribed in  doses  of  from  Gm.  0.30-0.60  (npv-x),  and  increased  if  necessary. 

EXTRACTUM  IPECACUANHA  FLUIDUM,  77.  S.— Fluid  Extract  of 

Ipecac. 

Extrait  liquide  d’ ipecacuanha,  Fr.  ; Fliissiges  Ipecacuanha- Extrakt,  G. 

Preparation. — Ipecac,  in  No.  80  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Alcohol,  Water,  each,  a suf- 
ficient quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  750  Cc.  of  alcohol  with  250  Cc.  of  water,  and, 
having  moistened  the  powder  with  350  Cc.  of  the  mixture,  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical 
percolator ; then  add  enough  menstruum  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a stratum 
above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator,  close  the  lower  orifice, 
and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow 
the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  menstruum,  using  the  same  proportions  of 
alcohol  and  water  as  before,  until  the  ipecac  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  900  Cc.  of 
the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remainder,  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  50°  C. 
(122°  F.),  to  a soft  extract ; dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  men- 
struum to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  ipecac  should  be  moistened  with  about  9 fluidounces  of  menstruum 
(alcohol  3 volumes,  water  1 volume),  and  the  first  22  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside 
as  reserve  ; the  final  volume  of  finished  product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

The  present  official  formula  yields  a fluid  extract  more  truly  representative  of  the  drug 


EXTRA  CTUM  IRIDIS.-  JA  LA  PJE. 


681 


than  the  last : fluid  extract  of  ipecac  is  chiefly  used  by  the  pharmacist  for  preparing  the 
syrup  and  wine,  and  as  the  present  fluid  extract  will  not  mix  clear  with  syrup  or  weak 
alcoholic  liquids,  the  Pharmacopoeia  has  modified  the  formulas  for  all  preparations  con- 
taining fluid  extract  of  ipecac,  so  that  clear  liquids  may  be  obtained. 

The  difficulty  was  at  one  time  supposed  to  arise  from  a so-called  resin  in  ipecac,  but  the 
opinion  now  prevails  that  it  is  due  to  a decomposition-product  of  a peculiar  pectin  com- 
pound, and  that  heat  is  one  of  the  chief  causes  of  the  changes  produced  in  this  inert 
principle.  A mixture  of  alcohol  3 volumes  and  water  1 volume  has  been  found  to 
exhaust  ipecac-root  very  much  better  than  alcohol  alone,  and  as  now  made  only  a very 
small  portion  of  the  extractive  will  be  subjected  to  heat. 

Uses. — Fluid  extract  of  ipecacuanha  is  a convenient  addition  to  expectorant  mix- 
tures, but  hardly  as  much  so  as  the  syrup,  to  the  preparation  of  which,  indeed,  it  is 
essential.  The  dose , as  an  emetic  for  children,  is  about  Gm.  1.20-2.00  (npxx-xxx)  ; as  an 
expectorant  Gm.  0.30  (n^v). 

EXTRACTUM  IRIDIS,  77.  ^.-Extract  of  Iris. 

Extract  of  blue  flag , E. ; Ex  trait  d’iris  varie,  Fr. ; Schwertel-Extrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Iris,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm.  ; Alcohol,  a sufficient  quantity. 
Having  moistened  the  powder  with  400  Cc.  of  alcohol,  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical 
percolator ; then  add  enough  alcohol  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a stratum  above 
it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator,  close  the  lower  orifice,  and, 
having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow  the 
percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  alcohol,  until  3000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained 
or  the  iris  is  exhausted.  By  means  of  a water-bath  distil  off  the  alcohol  from  the 
tincture,  and,  having  placed  the  residue  in  a porcelain  capsule,  evaporate  it,  on  a water- 
bath,  to  a pilular  consistence. — V.  S. 

25  av.  oz.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  10  fluidounces  of  alcohol  and 
percolation  continued  to  exhaustion.  About  75  fluidounces  of  percolate  will  be  necessary. 

From  what  is  known  of  the  constituents  of  the  drug,  the  menstruum  should  be  efficient 
for  extracting  the  active  constituents.  The  extract  is  of  a dark-brown  color. 

Uses. — It  is  laxative  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.12-0.20  (gr.  ij-iij). 

EXTRACTUM  IRIDIS  FLUIDUM,  JJ.  S.— Fluid  Extract  of  Iris. 

Fluid  extract  of  blue  flag,  E.  ; Extrait  liquide  d ’ iris  varie , Fr.  ; Fliissiges  Schwertel- 
extrakt,  G. 

Preparation. — Iris,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Alcohol,  a sufficient  quantity,  to 
make  1000  Cc.  Having  moistened  the  powder  with  400  Cc.  of  alcohol,  pack  it  firmly  in 
a cylindrical  percolator ; then  add  enough  alcohol  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a 
stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator  close  the  lower 
orifice,  and.  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then 
allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  menstruum,  until  the  iris  is  exhausted. 
Reserve  the  first  900  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remainder,  on  a water-bath, 
to  a soft  extract ; dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  menstruum  to 
make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  10  fluidounces  of  alcohol,  and 
the  first  22  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve ; the  final  volume  of  finished 
product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

The  menstruum  used  is  the  same  as  for  the  preceding  preparation.  The  fluid  extract 
is  of  a deep  red-brown  color.  Using  alcohol  for  exhausting  the  drug,  W.  E.  Jenks 
(1881)  obtained  a dark  reddish-brown  oleoresin  of  a thick  viscid  consistence  and  of  a 
peculiar  odor ; by  dissolving  this  in  ether,  filtering,  and  evaporating,  it  became  compara- 
tively free  from  astringency. 

Uses. — It  may  be  employed  as  a laxative  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.60-1.20  (npx-xx). 

EXTRACTUM  JALAPiE,  77.  S ,,  Br, — Extract  of  Jalap. 

Extrait  de  jalap,  Fr. ; Jalapen-Extrdkt , G. 

Preparation. — Jalap,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Alcohol  a sufficient  quantity. 
Moisten  the  powder  with  350  Cc.  of  alcohol,  and  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  perco- 
lator ; then  add  enough  alcohol  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a stratum  above  it. 
When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator  close  the  lower  orifice,  and,  having 


682 


EXTRACTUM  J UGLA  NDIS.—KRA  MERIJE. 


closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow  the  percola- 
tion to  proceed,  gradually  adding  alcohol,  until  the  jalap  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the 
first  900  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  evaporate  the  remainder,  at  a temperature  not  exceeding 
50°  C.  (122°  F.),  to  100  Cc.,  add  the  reserved  portion,  and  evaporate,  at  or  below  the 
above-mentioned  temperature,  until  an  extract  of  a pilular  consistence  remains. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  jalap  should  be  moistened  with  about  9 fluidounces  of  alcohol,  and  the 
first  22  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve ; the  balance  of  the  percolate  is  to 
be  evaporated  to  2^  fluidounces  before  mixing  it  with  the  reserve  portion  for  final  evap- 
oration to  a pilular  consistence. 

Jalap,  in  coarse  powder,  1 pound;  Rectified  Spirit  4 pints;  Distilled  Water  1 gallon. 
Macerate  the  jalap  in  the  spirit  for  seven  days,  press  out  the  tincture,  then  filter,  and 
distil  off  the  spirit,  leaving  a soft  extract.  Again  macerate  the  residual  jalap  in  the  water 
for  four  hours,  express,  strain  through  flannel,  and  evaporate  by  a water-bath  to  a soft 
extract.  Mix  the  two  extracts,  and  evaporate  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  140°  F. 
until  it  has  acquired  a suitable  consistence  for  forming  pills. — Br. 

No  advantage  whatever  results  from  treating  jalap  witl^  water  after  it  has  been 
exhausted  by  alcohol.  240  grains  of  such  an  aqueous  extract  were  taken  by  A.  B. 
Taylor  (1864)  in  the  course  of  eight  hours  without  producing  any  noticeable  effect. 
Alcohol  alone  will  yield  between  12  and  18  or  22  per  cent,  of  active  extract,  and  cold 
water  will  subsequently  extract  30  to  35  per  cent,  of  inert  matter.  The  supposed  advan- 
tage is  due  to  an  erroneous  conception  of  the  statement  that  the  aqueous  extract  was 
possessed  of  mild  purgative  and  diuretic  properties : this  statement  is  correct  as  far  as  it 
applies  to  that  portion  of  the  aqueous  extract  soluble  in  alcohol,  or,  what  is  the  same 
thing,  to  the  aqueous  extract  of  the  alcoholic  extract.  The  watery  washing  obtained  in 
the  preparation  of  resin  of  jalap  when  evaporated  to  the  consistence  of  an  extract  would 
serve  a useful  purpose  in  the  treatment  of  children  and  weak  adults. 

Uses. — This  preparation  contains  all  the  virtues  of  jalap  in  about  half  the  bulk,  and 
may  be  substituted  for  it  in  all  prescriptions.  The  dose  is  Gm.  0.30-1.00  (gr.  v-xv). 

EXTRACTUM  JUGLANDIS,  U.  Extract  of  Juglans. 

Extract  of  butternut , E. ; Extrait  d'ecorce  de  noyer gris , Fr. ; Butternussrinden-ExtraJd,  G. 

Preparation. — Juglans,  in  No.  30  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Diluted  Alcohol  a sufficient 
quantity.  Moisten  the  powder  with  400  Cc.  of  diluted  alcohol,  and  pack  it  firmly  in 
a cylindrical  percolator ; then  add  enough  diluted  alcohol  to  saturate  the  powder  and 
leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator  close 
the  lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight 
hours.  Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  diluted  alcohol  until 
3000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained  or  the  juglans  is  exhausted.  By  means  of  a water- 
bath  distil  off  the  alcohol  from  the  tincture,  and  having  placed  the  residue  in  a porcelain 
capsule,  evaporate  it  on  a water-bath  to  a pilular  consistence. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  10  fluidounces  of  menstruum 
(diluted  alcohol),  and  about  75  fluidounces  of  percolate  obtained. 

The  Pharmacopoeia  has  changed  the  menstruum  for  this  extract ; already,  in  1881, 
B.  F.  Moise,  Jr.  (Proc.  A.  P.  A.,  1881,  p.  71),  called  attention  to  the  fact  that  diluted 
alcohol  yields  a more  efficient  preparation,  and  that  the  large  amount  of  fixed  oil 
extracted  by  pure  alcohol  caused  the  extract  to  remain  plastic  and  prevented  its  adher- 
ence to  the  spatula.  Manufacturers  have  long  since  employed  diluted  alcohol  as  the 
solvent,  which  menstruum  also  increases  the  yield  about  30  per  cent. 

The  yield  is  from  12  to  15  per  cent. ; the  extract  is  of  a blackish-brown  color  and 
bitter  taste. 

Uses. — It  is  a mild  cathartic  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  1.30-2  (gr.  xx-xxx),  and  is  said  to 
be  peculiarly  appropriate  for  relieving  habitual  costiveness. 

EXTRACTUM  KRAMERLE,  TJ.  S.,  Br.— Extract  of  Krameria. 

Extr  actum  ratanhse. — Extract  of  7 hat  any,  E. ; Extrait  de  ratanhia , Fr. ; Ratanha- 
Extrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Krameria,  in  No.  40  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Water,  a sufficient  quantity. 
Moisten  the  powder  with  300  Cc.  of  water,  pack  it  in  a conical  glass  percolator,  and 
gradually  pour  water  upon  it  until  the  infusion  passes  but  slightly  imbued  with  the 
astringency  of  the  krameria.  Heat  the  liquid  to  the  boiling-point,  strain,  and  by  means 


EXTR ACTUM  KRAMERIJE  FL  UID UM.—LA CTUCjE 


683 


of  a water-bath,  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  70°  C.  (158°  F.),  evaporate  to  dry- 
ness.—K S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  krameria  should  be  moistened  with  about  7£  fluidounces  of  water  before 
being  packed  in  a percolator. 

The  processes  of  the  other  pharmacopoeias  are  practically  identical  with  this,  but  the 
Br.  P.  and  Fr.  Cod.  order  distilled  in  place  of  common  water. 

It  is  important  that  the  root  be  exhausted  with  cold  water.  Hot  water  will  yield  about 
5 or  6 per  cent,  more  extract,  which,  however,  is  but  incompletely  soluble  in  water,  while 
the  official  extract  yields  a somewhat  turbid  solution  with  warm  water,  but  a clear  solu- 
tion in  the  presence  of  sugar.  The  amount  of  extract  obtainable  depends  on  the  size 
and  the  variety  of  rhatany-root  used,  the  woody  part  of  which  contains  but  little  soluble 
matter.  The  smaller  branches  of  Peruvian  rhatany  yield  about  12  per  cent,  of  dry 
extract,  but  the  thick  main  root  yields  only  5 or  6 per  cent. ; Sa vanilla  and  Para  rhatany 
give  a larger  yield,  about  12  to  15  per  cent.  The  extract  is  of  a red-brown  color,  glossy, 
resembling  kino  in  appearance,  and  is  not  hygroscopic.  Iron  utensils  must  not  be  used 
in  its  preparation. 

Uses. — This  extract  is  a convenient  form  of  krameria  in  nearly  all  of  the  cases  for 
which  that  medicine  is  appropriate.  The  dose  is  from  Gm.  0.30-1.30  (gr.  v-xx),  the 
smaller  dose  being  frequently  repeated. 

EXTRACTUM  KRAMERLE  FLUIDUM,  V.  Fluid  Extract  of 

Krameria. 

Fluid  extract  of  rhatany , E. ; Extrait  liquide  de  ratanhia,  Fr.  ; Fliissiges  Ratanha- 
Extrakt,  G. 

Preparation. — Krameria,  in  No.  30  powder,  1000  Gm.;  Glycerin,  100  Cc. ; Diluted 
Alcohol,  a sufficient  quantity,  to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  glycerin  with  900  Cc.  of 
diluted  alcohol,  and,  having  moistened  the  powder  with  400  Cc.  of  the  mixture, 
pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  glass  percolator ; then  add  enough  of  the  menstruum  to 
saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from 
the  percolator  close  the  lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate 
for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding,  first,  the 
remainder  of  the  menstruum,  and  afterward  diluted  alcohol,  until  the  krameria  is 
exhausted  Reserve  the  first  700  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remainder  to  a 
soft  extract ; dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  diluted  alcohol  to 
make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  krameria  should  be  moistened  with  about  10  fluidounces  of  menstruum 
(diluted  alcohol  211  fluidounces,  glycerin  2|  fluidounces),  and  when  the  original  men- 
struum has  all  been  used,  percolation  is  to  be  continued  with  diluted  alcohol ; the  first 
171  fluidounces  of  percolate  should  be  set  aside  as  reserve,  and  the  final  volume  of 
finished  product  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

The  reduction  of  glycerin  in  the  menstruum  to  nearly  one-half  the  quantity  ordered 
in  1880  is  in  accordance  with  the  suggestions  of  A.  Robbins  in  1883,  and  has  been  found 
advantageous. 

It  is  of  a deep  brownish-red  color  and  strongly  astringent  taste. 

Uses. — It  has  the  advantage  over  the  tincture  of  being  more  astringent  and  less 
stimulant.  Dose , Gm.  2 (f£ss). 

EXTRACTUM  LACTUC^E,  7?i\— Extract  of  Lettuce. 

Extractum  lactucse  virosse;  Thridacium. — Extrait  des  feuilles  de  laitue  vireuse , Fr. ; Gift- 
lattich-Extrakt , G.  ; Estratto  di  lattuca  verosa,  It. 

Preparation. — The  formula  of  the  British  Pharmacopoeia  is  identical  with  that  for 
the  inspissated  juices  of  the  other  narcotic  herbs  (see  page  648).  The  extract  contains 
the  chlorophyll  and  is  completely  soluble  in  water.  The  French  Codex  directs  the 
removal  of  the  chlorophyll  and  albumen,  and  obtains  an  extract  of  a dark-brown  color 
which  yields  with  water  a somewhat  turbid  solution.  The  yield  is  about  3 or  4 per  cent. 

Extrait  de  laitue,  Tiiridace,  F.  Cod.,  is  made  in  the  same  manner  from  the  cor- 
tical portion  of  the  stem  of  cultivated  lettuce,  and  is  sometimes  called  French  lactuca- 
rium ; the  yield  is  about  \\  per  cent. 

Uses. — Like  all  the  medicinal  preparations  of  lettuce,  it  is  an  extremely  feeble  hyp- 
notic. Dose , Gm.  0.30  (gr.  v). 


684 


EXTBACTUM  LAPPJS  FLUIDUM.— LEPTANDRA  FLUID UM. 


EXTRACTUM  LAPP,®  FLUIDUM,  77.  S.— Fluid  Extract  of  Lappa. 

Fluid  extract  of  burdock , E. ; Extrait  liquide  de  bardane , Fr. ; Fliissiges  Kletten  wurzel- 
Extrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Lappa,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Diluted  Alcohol,  a sufficient 
quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  400  Cc.  of  diluted  alcohol,  and 
pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator ; then  add  enough  diluted  alcohol  to  saturate  the 
powder  and  leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  perco- 
lator close  the  lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for 
forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  diluted  alcohol, 
until  the  lappa  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  800  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate 
the  remainder  to  a soft  extract ; dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough 
diluted  alcohol  to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  10  fluidounces  of  menstruum, 
and  the  first  191  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve;  the  final  volume  of  finished 
product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

Experience  has  shown  that  diluted  alcohol  perfectly  exhausts  burdock-root,  yielding  a 
very  satisfactory  preparation. 

Dose,  Gm.  2 to  8 (f^ss-^ij). 

EXTRACTUM  LEPTANDR-®,  77.  Extract  of  Leptandra. 

Extrait  de  leptandra , Fr. ; Leptandra- Extrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Leptandra,  in  No.  40  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Alcohol,  Water,  each  a 
sufficient  quantity.  Mix  750  Cc.  of  alcohol  with  250  Cc.  of  water,  and,  having  moist- 
ened the  powder  with  400  Cc.  of  the  mixture,  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator ; 
then  add  enough  of  the  menstruum  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a stratum  above  it. 
When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator  close  the  lower  orifice,  and,  having 
closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow  the  percola 
tion  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  menstruum,  until  the  leptandra  is  exhausted.  By 
means  of  a water-bath  distil  off  the  alcohol  from  the  tincture,  and,  having  placed  the  resi- 
due in  a porcelain  capsule,  evaporate  it  on  a water-bath  to  a pilular  consistence. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  10  fluidounces  of  menstruum 
composed  of  alcohol  3 volumes  and  water  1 volume,  and  percolation  continued  to  exhaus- 
tion with  the  same  mixture. 

This  extract  is  evidently  intended  to  take  the  place  of  the  so-called  leptandrin  of  com- 
merce, which  is  of  variable  composition.  By  simply  evaporating  a tincture  of  leptandra 
it  is  extremely  difficult  to  obtain  a pulverizable  extract,  as  pointed  out  by  Dr.  Greve  and 
by  Prof.  Lloyd  (1880),  owing  to  the  large  amount  of  glucose  present.  The  yield  is 
about  10  per  cent.  The  extract  is  of  a blackish-brown  color,  and  is  partly  soluble  in 
water,  yielding  a dark -brown,  very  bitter  solution. 

Uses. — This  extract  represents  very  well  the  virtues  of  leptandra.  Dose,  Gm. 
0.12-0.24  (gr.  ij-iv). 

EXTRACTUM  LEPTANDRA  FLUIDUM,  77.  S.— Fluid  Extract  of 

Leptandra. 

Extrait  liquide  de  leptandra , Fr. ; Fliissiges  Leptandraextrakt,  G. 

Preparation. — Leptandra,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Alcohol,  Water,  each,  a 
sufficient  quantity,  to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  750  Cc.  of  alcohol  with  250  Cc.  of  water, 
and,  having  moistened  the  powder  with  400  Cc'.  of  the  mixture,  pack  it  moderately  in  a 
cylindrical  percolator ; then  add  enough  menstruum  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a 
stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator,  close  the  lower 
orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then 
allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  menstruum,  using  the  same  propor- 
tions of  alcohol  and  water  as  before,  until  the  leptandra  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first 
800  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remainder  to  a soft  extract;  dissolve  this  in 
the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  menstruum  to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000 
Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  10  fluidounces  of  menstruum 
(alcohol  3 volumes,  water  1 volume),  and  the  first  191  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside 
as  reserve  ; the  final  volume  of  finished  product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 


EXTRACTUM  LOBELIAS  FL  UID  U3I.—L  UPULINI  FLUIDUM. 


685 


A weaker  alcoholic  menstruum  we  think  would  be  equally  serviceable ; a mixture  of 
alcohol  2 volumes  and  water  1 volume  has  been  found  to  yield  a very  satisfactory  prep- 
aration (A.  Robbins,  1883)  ; and  even  diluted  alcohol  has  been  used  with  good  results 
both  for  the  fluid  and  solid  extract. 

It  is  of  a dark  red-brown  color  and  has  a very  bitter  taste. 

Uses. — This  preparation  is  less  suitable  for  a purgative  than  the  solid  extract.  Dose, 
Gin.  2-4  (npxxx-lx). 

EXTRACTUM  LOBELLE  FLUIDUM,  U.  S. -Fluid  Extract  of 

Lobelia. 

Extrait  liquide  de  lobelie  enflee , Fr.  ; Fliissiges  Lobelien- Extrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Lobelia,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Diluted  Alcohol  a sufficient 
quantity ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  350  Cc.  of  diluted  alcohol,  and 
pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator  ; then  add  enough  diluted  alcohol  to  saturate  the 
powder  and  leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percola- 
tor close  the  lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty- 
eight  hours.  Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  diluted  alcohol, 
until  the  lobelia  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  850  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate 
the  remainder  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  50°  C.  (122°  F.)  to  a soft  extract;  dissolve 
this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  diluted  alcohol  to  make  the  fluid  extract 
measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  9 fluidounces  of  menstruum 
(diluted  alcohol)  and  the  first  21  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve  ; the  final 
volume  of  finished  product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

This  fluid  extract  is  of  a deep  green-brown  color,  has  the  unpleasant  acrid  taste  of  the 
drug,  and  if  properly  made  and  kept  remains  in  good  condition. 

Dose,  as  an  emetic,  Gm.  0.60-1.30  (rrpx— xx)  ; as  an  expectorant,  Gm.  0.06—0.30  (rr^ j— v). 

EXTRACTUM  LUPULI,  j Br. — Extract  of  Hop. 

Extractum  humuli. — Extrait  de  houblon , Fr. ; Hopfenextrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Hop  1 pound  ; Rectified  Spirit  II  pints;  Distilled  Water  1 
gallon.  Macerate  the  hop  in  the  spirit  for  7 days,  press  out  the  tincture ; filter,  and  distil 
off  the  spirit,  leaving  a soft  extract.  Boil  the  residual  hop  with  the  water  for  1 hour, 
press  out  the  liquor,  strain,  and  evaporate  by  a water-bath  to  the  consistence  of  a soft 
extract.  Mix  the  two  extracts,  and  evaporate  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  140°  F.,  until 
| it  has  acquired  a suitable  consistence  for  forming  pills. — Br. 

Alcohol  is  required  for  exhausting  the  lupulin  of  hops,  and  would  also  exhaust  hops 
if  used  in  sufficient  quantity ; the  subsequent  use  of  water  is  a saving  of  alcohol.  The 
extract  of  the  French  Codex,  which  is  made  with  alcohol  of  60  per  cent,  by  volume,  is 
preferable.  The  yield  is  about  20  per  cent. 

Uses. — This  preparation  represents  pretty  well  the  virtues  of  hop.  Dose,  Gm.  0.30 
i (gr.  v)  or  more. 

EXTRACTUM  LUPULINI  FLUIDUM,  U.  S.— Fluid  Extract  of 

Lupulin. 

Extrait  liquide  de  lupuline , Fr.  ; Fliissiges  Lupulin- Extrakt,  G. 

Preparation. — Lupulin  1000  Gm. ; Alcohol  a sufficient  quantity  to  make  1000  Cc. 
Moisten  the  lupulin  with  200  Cc.  of  alcohol,  and  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percola- 
tor; then  add  enough  alcohol  to  saturate  the  lupulin  and  leave  a stratum  above  it.  When 
the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator,  close  the  lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely 
covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow  the  percolation  to 
proceed,  gradually  adding  alcohol,  until  the  lupulin  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  700 
Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remainder  to  a soft  extract ; dissolve  this  in  the  re- 
served portion,  and  add  enough  alcohol  to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U S. 

From  the  percolation  of  25  av.  ozs.  of  lupulin  with  alcohol  the  first  17£  fluidounces 
obtained  should  be  set  aside  as  reserve,  and  the  final  volume  of  finished  product  made  up 
to  24  fluidounces. 

The  use  of  alcohol  is  necessary  to  keep  the  volatile  oil  and  resinous  matter  in  solution, 
and  the  preparation  fairly  represents  the  drug.  Mr.  Alonzo  Robbins  suggests  that  lupulin 
be  packed  without  previously  moistening  it,  as  then  the  percolation  proceeds  evenly  and 


686 


EXTR ACTUM  MALTI. 


without  any  difficulty,  while  the  moistened  powder  is  apt  to  form  a tough  mass  difficult 
to  percolate.  The  fluid  extract  is  of  a deep  red-brown  color  and  of  the  odor  and  taste 
of  the  drug. 

Uses. — It  affords  a convenient  mode  of  administering  lupulin.  The  dose  is  Gm. 

I. 00-1.30  (up  xv— xx),  which  should  be  mixed  with  syrup  or  brandy  and  afterward 
diluted  with  water. 

EXTRACTUM  MALTI.— Extract  of  Malt. 

Essence  { Extrait ) de  malt , Fr.  ; Malzextrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Malt,  in  coarse  powder,  not  finer  than  No.  12, 100  parts  (100  oz.  av.)  ; 
Water  a sufficient  quantity.  Upon  the  powder,  contained  in  a suitable  vessel,  pour  100 
parts  of  water,  and  macerate  for  six  hours.  Then  add  400  parts  (400  oz.  av.  or  24  pints) 
of  water  heated  to  about  30°  C.  (86°  F.),  and  digest  for  an  hour  at  a temperature  not 
exceeding  55°  C.  (131°  F.).  Strain  the  mixture  with  strong  expression.  Finally,  by 
means  of  a water-bath  or  vacuum-apparatus,  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  55°  C. 
(131°  F.),  evaporate  the  strained  liquid  rapidly  to  the  consistence  of  thick  honey.  Keep 
the  product  in  well-closed  vessels  in  a cool  place. — U.  S.  1880. 

In  making  this  extract  it  is  of  the  utmost  importance  that  the  temperature  should 
never  exceed  65°  C.  (149°  F.),  and  it  is  safer,  for  the  preservation  of  the  diastase,  to 
keep  it  at  or  below  55°  C.  (131°  F.)  until  the  starch  of  the  malt  has  been  converted  into 
glucose  and  dextrin.  According  to  Payen  and  Persoz,  good  malt  contains  2 per  cent,  of 
diastase,  and  since  1 part  of  this  compound  is  estimated  to  convert  2000  parts  of  starch, 
it  is  obvious  that  properly-prepared  malt  extract  should  contain  nearly  the  entire  amount 
of  diastase  which  was  originally  present  in  the  malt.  This  is  only  accomplished  by  the 
rapid  evaporation  of  the  infusion  at  a temperature  which  does  not  act  injuriously  upon 
diastase,  as  is  directed  in  the  above  process.  The  yield  is  from  65  to  75  per  cent. 

Properties. — Extract  of  malt  is  a brown-yellow  or  light  amber-colored,  thick  liquid 
or  semi-fluid  mass,  having  a slight  peculiar  odor,  a sweet  mucilaginous  taste,  and  a dis- 
tinct acid  reaction  to  litmus-paper.  It  dissolves  in  water  in  all  proportions,  yielding  a 
nearly  transparent  solution,  in  which  alcohol  produces  a milky  turbidity,  after  a short  time 
becoming  clear,  with  the  separation  of  a flocculent  precipitate.  The  aqueous  solution 
also  yields  precipitates  with  picric  acid,  tannin,  most  alkaloidal  reagents,  and  mercuric 
chloride  and  other  metallic  salts.  When  the  extract  is  added  to  starch-paste,  this  is 
gradually  liquefied,  and  will  finally  not  acquire  a blue  color  on  the  addition  of  iodine 
solution.  On  heating  the  extract  it  is  decomposed,  giving  off  the  odor  of  burning  sugar, 
and  finally  leaving  a small  amount  of  ash. 

Constituents. — Good  extract  of  malt  contains  about  30  per  cent,  of  water,  60  of 
maltose  and  dextrin,  8 of  nitrogenated  principles,  and  1J  of  ash.  Maltose  and  dextrin 
are  usually  present  in  nearly  equal  proportion,  the  former  somewhat  predominating.  A 
minute  amount  of  free  lactic  and  perhaps  of  other  acids  is  likewise  present. 

Valuation. — (For  valuable  papers  on  the  analysis  of  malt-extract  consult  W.  H. 
Dunstan  and  A.  F.  Dimmock  in  Phar.  Jour,  and  Transactions , March,  1879,  p.  734,  and 

J.  F.  C.  Jungk  in  Amer.  Jour.  Phar.,  June,  1883,  p.  289.)  The  amount  of  solid  matter 
may  be  determined  from  the  specific  gravity,  which  is  not  identical  with  that  of  a solution 
containing  the  same  percentage  of  cane-sugar.  Hager  has  constructed  the  annexed  table, 
which  gives  the  density  at  17.5°  C.  (63.5°  F.)  and  the  amount  of  solids  dried  at  110°  C. 
(230°  F.) : 


Table  of  Specific  Gravity  at  17.5°  G.  and  Percentage  of  Solids , Dried  at  110°  C.,  of 

Extract  of  Malt. 


Solids. 

Specific 

gravity. 

Solids. 

Specific 

gravity. 

Solids. 

Specific 

gravity. 

Solids. 

Specific 

gravity. 

Solids. 

Specific 

gravity. 

1 

1.0035 

11 

1.0448 

21 

1.0866 

31 

1.1305 

41 

1.1792 

2 

1.0072 

12 

1.0490 

22 

1.0908 

32 

1.1353  • 

42 

1.1844 

3 

1.0112 

13 

1.0532 

23 

1.0950 

33 

1.1401 

43 

1.1897 

4 

1.0154 

14 

1.0574 

24 

1.0991 

34 

1.1449 

44 

1.1952 

5 

1.0197 

15 

1.0616 

25 

1.1033 

35 

1.1497 

45 

1.2007 

6 

1.0238 

16 

1.0658 

26 

1.1075 

36 

1.1545 

46 

1.2062 

7 

1.0279 

17 

1.0700 

27 

1.1117 

37 

1.1594 

47 

1.2119 

8 

1.0321 

18 

1.0741 

28 

1.1159 

38 

1.1643 

48 

1.2178 

9 

1.0363 

19 

1.0782 

29 

1.1202 

39 

1.1692 

49 

1.2239 

10 

1.0406 

20 

1.0824 

30 

1.1258 

40 

1.1741 

50 

1.2303 

EXTRACTUM  MATICO  FLUIDUM.— MEN ISPERMI  FLUID  UM. 


687 


Should  the  extract  be  too  thick,  it  is  to  be  dissolved  in  an  equal  weight  of  distilled  water. 
According  to  Jungk,  5 Gm.  of  the  extract  are  mixed  with  20  Gm.  of  well-washed  and 
dried  sand,  and  the  mixture  is  dried  at  100°  C. ; the  loss  in  weight  indicates  the  water. 
The  dry  powder  is,  exhausted  with  ether,  in  a small  percolator,  the  loss  being  resin  of 
hops  if  present.  A mixture  of  2 volumes  of  strong  alcohol  and  1 volume  of  ether  will 
next  take  up  glycerin  ; then  the  maltose  is  dissolved  by  alcohol,  and  afterward  the  dextrin 
by  boiling  water.  On  heating  the  sand  to  redness,  the  albuminates  are  burned,  and  esti- 
mated by  loss  of  weight.  The  diastatic  strength  of  extract  of  malt  is  determined  by 
forming  starch  into  paste  with  about  20  parts  of  boiling  water,  and  digesting  it  with  the 
extract.  According  to  Jungk,  properly-prepared  extract  of  malt  should  convert  its  own 
weight  of  starch  at  16.6°  C.  (62°  F.)  in  40  minutes,  or  at  37.8°  C.  (100°  F.)  in  10  min- 
utes, or  at  65.5°  C.  (150°  F.)  in  3 minutes.  The  proteids  may  be  estimated,  according 
to  Hager,  by  digesting  for  30  minutes  10  Gm.  of  extract  of  malt  with  100  Gm.  of  aqueous 
solution  of  picric  acid  saturated  in  the  cold,  washing  the  precipitate,  and  drying ; one- 
half  the  weight  is  about  equal  to  the  albuminoids,  of  which  from  3 to  3.25  per  cent, 
should  be  present  (Jungk). 

Some  commercial  malt  extracts  are  scarcely  superior  to  glucose ; others  consist  of  a 
stronger  or  weaker  beer. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Extract  of  malt  is  serviceable  in  emulsionizing  fixed  oil 
and  as  a vehicle  for  various  medicaments. 

Extractum  malti  ferratum  (P.  G.  1872)  is  made  by  dissolving  2 parts  of  pyro- 
phosphate of  iron  in  3 parts  of  water,  and  incorporating  the  solution  with  95  parts  of 
extract  of  malt.  Hager  (1876)  recommends  instead  the  use  of  3 parts  of  saccharated 
iron  rubbed  up  with  7 of  glycerin  and  90  of  extract  of  malt. 

If  quinine  is  combined  with  malt,  the  neutral  tannate  of  quinine  is  best  employed.  Hops 
may  be  used  with  it  in  the  form  of  fluid  extract  of  lupulin.  A combination  with  pepsin 
should  be  made  extemporaneously,  since  the  taste  is  gradually  modified. 

Extractum  malti  fluidum,  suggested  by  Prof.  Lloyd,  may  be  made  by  macerating 
and  percolating  4 parts  of  ground  malt  with  a mixture  of  1 part  of  alcohol  and  4 parts 
of  water  until  3 parts  of  percolate  are  obtained.  It  is  a thin  yellow  or  brownish  liquid, 
containing  the  malt-sugar  and  diastase,  the  latter  being  destroyed  on  the  application  of 
heat. 

Uses. — (See  Maltum.)  It  is  a condiment  and  digestive  whose  dose  must  vary  with 
individual  cases. 

EXTRACTUM  MATICO  FLUIDUM,  U.  S.— Fluid  Extract  of  Matico. 

Extrait  liquide  de  matico , Fr. ; Fliissiges  Matico- Extrakt,  G. 

Preparation. — Matico,  in  No.  40  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Alcohol,  Water,  each  a suf- 
ficient quantity  to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  750  Cc.  of  alcohol  with  250  Cc.  of  water,  and, 
having  moistened  the  powder  with  300  Cc.  of  the  mixture,  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical 
percolator ; then  add  enough  menstruum  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a stratum 
above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator,  close  the  lower  orifice, 
and  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow 
the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  menstruum,  using  the  same  proportions  of 
alcohol  and  water  as  before,  until  the  matico  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  850  Cc. 
of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remainder  to  a soft  extract ; dissolve  this  in  the 
reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  menstruum  to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000 
Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  71  fluidounces  of  menstruum 
(alcohol  3 volumes,  water  1 volume),  and  the  first  21  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside 
as  reserve ; the  final  volume  of  finished  product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

The  omission  of  glycerin  in  the  official  menstruum  for  this  fluid  extract  seems  justifi- 
able, as  the  preparation  has  been  found  to  keep  as  well  without  it. 

Uses. — The  utility  of  this  preparation  consists  in  the  facility  with  which  it  is  ab- 
sorbed. It  may  be  given  in  dose  of  Gm.  2-8  (f^ss-ij). 

EXTRACTUM  MENISPERMI  FLUIDUM,  T7.  S.— Fluid  Extract  of 

Menispermum. 

Fluid  extract  of  yellow  parilla  or  Canadian  moonseed,  E. ; Extrait  liquide  de  meni- 
sperme  du  Canada , Fr. ; Fliissiges  Canadisches  Mondkorn- Extrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Menispermum,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Alcohol,  Water,  each 


688 


EXTRACTUM  MEZEREI  FL UID UM.—NUC1S  VOMICM 


a sufficient  quantity  to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  600  Cc.  of  alcohol  with  300  Cc.  of  water, 
and,  having  moistened  the  powder  with  400  Cc.  of  the  mixture,  pack  it  firmly  in  a 
cylindrical  percolator;  then  add  enough  menstruum  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave 
a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator,  close  the 
lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours. 
Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  menstruum,  using  the  same 
proportions  of  alcohol  and  water  as  before,  until  the  menispermum  is  exhausted.  Reserve 
the  first  900  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remainder  to  a soft  extract ; dissolve 
this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  menstruum  to  make  the  fluid  extract  meas- 
ure 1000  Cc.—  U S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  10  fluidounces  of  menstruum 
(alcohol  2 volumes,  water  1 volume),  and  the  first  22  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside 
as  reserve ; the  final  volume  of  finished  product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

Fluid  extract  of  yellow  parilla  has  a dark  reddish-brown  color  and  a disagreeable 
bitter  taste. 

Uses. — The  virtues  of  this  preparation,  as  of  the  plant  from  which  it  is  derived, 
remain  problematical.  Bose , Gm.  1-4  (npxv-^j). 

EXTRACTUM  MEZEREI  FLUIDUM,  77.  S,- — Fluid  Extract  op  Meze- 

REUM. 

Extrait  liquide  de  mezereon  (de  garou ),  Fr. ; Fliissiges  Seidelbast-Extrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Mezereum,  in  No.  30  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Alcohol,  a sufficient  quan- 
tity ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  400  Cc.  of  alcohol,  and  pack  it  firmly 
in  a cylindrical  percolator ; then  add  enough  alcohol  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave 
a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator  close  the  lower 
orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then 
allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  alcohol,  until  the  mezereum  is  ex- 
hausted. Reserve  the  first  900  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remainder,  at  a 
temperature  not  exceeding  50°  C.  (122°  F.),  to  a soft  extract;  dissolve  this  in  the 
reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  alcohol  to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000 
Cc.—  U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  mezereum  should  be  moistened  with  about  10  fluidounces  of  alcohol,  and 
the  first  22  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve ; the  final  volume  of  finished 
product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

This  fluid  extract,  which  is  of  a green  color  and  very  acrid,  is  used  in  the  preparation 
of  linimentum  sinapis  compositum,  for  which  purpose  it  is  very  convenient.  The  alco- 
hol may  be  recovered  by  distillation  without  detriment  to  the  preparation. 

Extractum  mezerei,  U.  S.  1880.  Extract  of  mezereum,  E. ; Extrait  de  garou,  Fr. ; Seidel- 
bast-Extrakt, G. — Mezereum  in  No.  30  powder  is  moistened  with  two-fifths  of  its  weight  of 
alcohol,  packed  firmly  in  a percolator,  and  exhausted  with  alcohol ; about  three  times  the  weight 
of  the  drug  will  be  found  sufficient  to  collect  of  percolate,  from  which  the  alcohol  may  be  recov- 
ered by  distillation,  and  the  residue  evaporated  to  the  consistence  of  a soft  extract,  a pilular  con- 
sistence being  impossible.  The  extract  is  of  a green  color  and  the  yield  from  10  to  12  per  cent. 

Extractum  mezerei  ^ethereum.  Br.,  Fr.  Cod. — Ethereal  extract  of  mezereum,  E. ; Extrait 
e there  de  garou  (de  mezereon),  Fr. ; iEtherisches  Seidelbast-Extrakt,  G. ; Estratto  di  mezereo 
etereo,  It. — An  alcoholic  tincture  of  mezereum  is  distilled  until  a soft  extract  remains ; this  is 
agitated  with  ether,  the  ethereal  solution  decanted,  the  ether  recovered  by  distillation,  and  the 
residue  converted  into  a soft  extract.  The  yield  is  6 or  7 per  cent.  This  extract  retains  the 
consistence  of  honey,  and  is  an  ingredient  of  the  compound  liniment  of  mustard,  Br.  P. 

Uses.— Diluted,  this  extract  may  take  the  place  of  decoction  of  mezereon.  But  as 
an  overdose  of  it,  undiluted,  may  give  rise  to  violent  and  even  fatal  effects,  this  mode 
of  administration  is  ineligible.  The  dose  is  nominally  Gm.  0.06-0.60  (rrpj-v-x).  Its  chief 
use  is  its  external  application  to  maintain  a discharge  from  blistered  surfaces. 

EXTRACTUM  NUCIS  VOMICiE,  77.  Br.— Extract  of  Nux  Vomica. 

Extractum  strychni , P.  G.  ; Extractum  nucum  vomicarum  spirituosum  (vel  alcoholicum). 
Extrait  de  noix  vomique , Fr. ; Brechnuss-Extrakt , Strychnossamen-Extrakt , Krdhenaugen - 
Extrakt,  G. ; Estratto  di  noce  vomica , It. 

Preparation. — Nux  Vomica,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Acetic  Acid,  50  Cc. ; 
Alcohol,  Water,  Ether,  Sugar  of  Milk,  recently  dried  and  in  fine  powder,  each  a sufficient 
quantity.  Mix  alcohol  and  water  in  the  proportion  of  750  Cc.  of  alcohol  to  250  Cc.  of 


EXT R ACTUM  NUC1S  VOMICAE. 


689 


water.  Mix  the  powder  with  1000  Cc.  of  the  mixture,  to  which  the  acetic  acid  had 
previously  been  added,  and  let  it  macerate,  in  a well-covered  vessel  in  a warm  place, 
during  forty-eight-  hours.  Then  pack  it  tightly  in  a cylindrical  glass  percolator,  gradually 
pour  menstruum  upon  it,  and  continue  the  percolation  until  the  nux  vomica  is  practically 
exhausted.  Distil  off  the  alcohol  by  means  of  a water-bath,  transfer  the  remainder  to 
a tared  capsule,  and  evaporate  it  until  it  weighs  about  150  Gm.  Transfer  it  to  a bottle 
of  the  capacity  of  about  500  Cc.,  and  wash  the  capsule  with  about  50  Cc.  of  warm 
water,  adding  the  washings  to  the  bottle  and  mixing  the  contents  thoroughly.  When 
the  liquid  extract  is  cold,  add  to  it  one-fourth  of  its  volume  of  ether,  stopper  the  bottle, 
and  bring  the  extract  and  ether  into  intimate  contact  by  gently  agitating  and  frequently 
inverting  the  bottle,  avoiding  violent  shaking  so  as  to  prevent  the  formation  of  an  emul- 
sion. Pour  off  the  ethereal  layer  as  closely  as  possible,  and  repeat  this  treatment  with 
ether  several  times,  until  a few  drops  of  the  ethereal  layer  no  longer  impart  a permanent 
greasy  stain  to  filtering-paper.  Then  transfer  the  contents  of  the  bottle  back  to  the 
tared  capsule,  using  a sufficient  quantity  of  warm  water  for  washing.  Recover  the  ether 
from  the  united  ethereal  washings,  add  to  the  oily  residue  about  15  Cc.  of  boiling  water, 
and  then  acetic  acid,  in  drops,  until  the  mixture  has  a permanent  acid  reaction.  Then 
filter  it  through  a moistened  filter,  and  wash  the  filter  with  a little  water.  Add  the  fil- 
trate to  the  extract  in  the  capsule,  evaporate  until  the  residue  weighs  about  200  Gm., 
and  allow  it  to  become  cold.  Then  determine  its  weight  exactly,  remove  4 Gm.  of  the 
mass,  and  assay  this  by  the  process  given  below,  using  the  amounts  of  liquids  there 
directed  for  2 Gm.  of  dry  extract.  In  another  portion  of  5 Gm.  determine  the  amount 
of  water  by  drying  it,  in  a flat-bottomed  capsule,  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.),  until  it  ceases 
to  lose  weight.  From  the  results  thus  obtained  ascertain,  by  calculation,  the  amount 
of  total  alkaloids  and  of  water  contained  in  the  remainder  of  the  mass,  add  to  this 
enough  well-dried  sugar  of  milk  to  bring  the  quantity  of  alkaloids  in  the  final  dry 
extract  to  15  per  cent.  ; then  evaporate  the  mass  to  complete  dryness,  reduce  it  to  pow- 
der, and  transfer  it  to  small,  well-stoppered  vials. 

Extract  of  nux  vomica,  when  assayed  by  the  following  process,  should  be  found  to  contain 
15  per  cent,  of  total  alkaloids : 

Assay  of  Extract  of  Nux  Vomica. — Extract  of  Nux  Yomica,  dried  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.),  Alco- 
hol, Ammonia-water,  Water,  Chloroform,  Decinormal  Sulphuric  Acid  Solution,  Centinormal 
Potassium  Hydroxide  Solution,  each  a sufficient  quantity.  Put  2 Gm.  of  the  dried  extract  of  nux 
vomica  into  a glass  separator  (separatory  funnel),  add  to  it  20  Cc.  of  a previously  prepared  mixture 
of  2 volumes  of  alcohol,  1 volume  df  ammonia-water  (specific  gravity  0.960),  and  1 volume  of 
water,  and  shake  the  well-stoppered  separator  until  the  extract  is  dissolved.  Then  add  20  Cc. 
of  chloroform  and  shake  well  during  five  minutes.  Allow  the  chloroform  to  separate,  remove 
it  as  far  as  possible,  pour  into  the  separator  a few  Cc.  of  chloroform,  and,  without  shaking, 
draw  this  off  through  the  stopcock  to  wash  the  outlet-tube.  Repeat  the  extraction  with  two 
further  portions  of  chloroform  of  15  Cc.  each,  and  wash  the  outlet-tube  each  time  as  just  di- 
rected. Collect  all  the  chloroformic  solutions  in  a wide  beaker,  expose  the  latter  to  a gentle 
heat,  on  a water-bath,  until  the  chloroform  and  ammonia  are  completely  dissipated,  add  to  the 
residue  10  Cc.  of  decinormal  sulphuric  acid  measured  with  great  care  from  a burette,  stir  gently, 
and  then  add  20  Cc.  of  hot  water.  When  solution  has  taken  place,  add  2 Cc.  of  brazil-wood 
test-solution,  and  then  carefully  run  in  centinormal  potassium  hydroxide  solution,  until  a perma- 
nent pinkish  color  is  produced  by  the  action  of  a slight  excess  of  alkali  upon  the  brazil-wood 
indicator.  Divide  the  number  of  Cc.  of  centinormal  potassa  solution  used  by  10,  subtract 
the  number  found  from  10  (the  10  Cc.  of  decinormal  acid  used),  multiplv  the" remainder  by 
0.0364,  and  that  product  by  50  (or  multiply  at  once  by  1.82),  which  will  give  the  percentage 
of  total  alkaloids  in  the  extract  of  nux  vomica,  it  being  assumed  that  strychnine  and  brucine 
are  present  in  equal  proportion,  and  the  above  factor  being  found  by  taking  the  mean  of  their 
respective  molecular  weights  [(324  -f-  394)  A-  2 = 364]. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  powdered  seed  should  be  digested  in  a covered  vessel  with  a mixture 
of  alcohol  18  fluidounces,  water  6 fluidounces.  acetic  acid  92  fluidrachms,  and  percolation 
continued  to  exhaustion  with  a menstruum  of  alcohol  3 volumes,  water  1 volume.  The 
treatment  with  ether  is  sufficiently  described  above,  as  also  the  subsequent  washing  and 
evaporation.  The  moist  extract  before  it  is  assayed  should  weigh  about  5 av.  ozs. 

Prepare  a tincture  from  nux  vomica  1 pound,  and  alcohol  (sp.  gr.  .875)  80  fluidounces  ; 
evaporate  1 fluidounce  almost  to  dryness ; dissolve  in  chloroform  ],  fluidounce  and  dilute 
sulphuric  acid  \ fluidounce,  agitate  and  warm  gently ; draw  off  the  chloroform  ; add  to 
the  acid  liquid  ammonia  in  excess  and  chloroform  \ fluidounce;  agitate,  gently  warm, 
evaporate  the  chloroform  in  a weighed  dish,  dry  at  100°  C.,  and  weigh  the  cooled  alka- 
loids. Take  of  the  tincture  as  much  as  contains  131  \ gr.  of  total  alkaloid;  distil,  and 
evaporate  to  2 ounces. — Br. 

44 


690 


EXTR ACTUM  NUCIS  VOMICJE. 


The  French  Codex  directs  maceration  with  alcohol  of  80  per  cent,  by  volume,  sp.  gr. 
0.864;  the  German  Pharmacopoeia,  digestion  with  alcohol  sp.  grav.  0.894. 

In  this  and  the  next  following  preparation  a radical  change  has  been  made  by  the  Phar- 
macopoeia, not  only  in  the  menstruum  and  manipulation,  but  chiefly  in  the  fact  that  a process 
has  been  prescribed  for  determining  the  quantity  of  alkaloid  present  in  the  extract,  which 
shall  be  15  per  cent,  in  the  official  article.  The  mixture  of  3 volumes  of  alcohol  and 
1 volume  of  water  will  exhaust  the  active  principles  of  nux  vomica  equally  as  well  as 
the  menstruum  of  1880,  and  at  the  same  time  take  up  less  fixed  oil ; moreover,  the  solu- 
tion of  the  alkaloids  is  facilitated  by  the  addition  of  acetic  acid.  The  washing  with 
ether  is  intended  to  remove  any  fatty  matter  which  may  have  been  extracted,  and  to 
recover  any  alkaloid  possibly  associated  with  the  fat,  the  latter  is  again  treated  with 
acid  and  hot  water.  As  the  extract  is  directed  to  be  reduced  to  powder,  the  removal  of 
the  fatty  matter  becomes  a necessity. 

The  following  example  will  serve  to  demonstrate  how  the  necessary  quantity  of  sugar 
of  milk  can  be  readily  calculated.  Suppose  the  residue  obtained  by  evaporation  of  the 
final  filtrate,  when  tested  by  the  methods  above  described,  is  found  to  contain  17?  per 
cent,  of  alkaloid  and  18  per  cent,  of  moisture, — this  would  be  equivalent  to  21.34  per 
cent,  of  alkaloid  if  all  moisture  were  evaporated,  for  100  — 18=82  and  82  : 100  : : 17.5  : x 
(21.34)  ; since  the  Pharmacopoeia  demands  but  15  per  cent,  of  alkaloid  in  the  dried  and 
powdered  extract,  every  100  Gm.  (or  grains)  of  the  residue  require  the  addition  of  34.67 
Gm.  (or  grains)  of  sugar  of  milk  before  it  is  finally  evaporated  to  dryness  and  powdered, 
for  x : 82  ::  21.34  : 15,  x — 116.67,  and  116.67  — 82  = 34.67  — proof:  100  parts  of  moist 
residue -|-  34.67  parts  sugar  of  milk  = 134.67,  which  upon  drying  are  reduced  to  (134.67 
— 18)  = 116.67  parts  ; the  dry  residue  will  contain  17.5  parts  of  alkaloid,  which  is  equal 
to  15  per  cent.,  for  116.67  : 17.5  : : 100  : x (15). 

Nux  vomica  is  exceedingly  difficult  to  powder;  the  object  is  best  accomplished  on  a 
small  scale  by  somewhat  crushing  the  seeds  and  drying  them  well  by  heat,  or  by  heating 
them  with  a little  water  until  they  become  soft  enough  to  be  bruised,  while  still  warm, 
into  a pulpy  mass,  with  which  a little  alcohol  is  incorporated,  ^hen  they  should  be  thor- 
oughly dried  and  powdered  for  displacement.  Where  steam  is  available  for  the  softening 
of  the  seeds  we  would  recommend  that  they  be  crushed  or  bruised  while  hot.  In  this 
way  the  rapid  drying  will  be  facilitated.  The  official  extract  is  of  a yellowish-brown 
color  and  of  an  intensely  bitter  taste.  The  yield  is  variable ; with  alcohol  sp.  gr.  0.835 
we  have  obtained  from  8 to  11.3  per  cent,  of  the  weight  of  the  seeds;  with  weaker 
alcohol  the  yield  is  increased.  It  contains  about  6 per  cent,  of  strychnine,  but  this 
percentage  must  necessarily  vary.  The  Br.  P.  extract  contains  15  per  cent,  of  total 
alkaloid. 

Extractum  strychni  (nucis  vomica)  aquosum  is  prepared  from  coarsely-pow- 
dered nux  vomica  by  digesting  it  with  hot  water  and  evaporating  the  infusion  to  dry- 
ness. The  yield  is  about  16  per  cent.,  and  the  extract  contains  about  2 or  3 per  cent, 
of  strychnine. 

Some  persons  will  no  doubt  object  to  the  official  volumetric  determination  of  the  total 
alkaloids  in  extract  of  nux  vomica  on  account  of  the  uncertain  knowledge  regarding  the 
proportions  in  which  the  alkaloids  exist  in  the  seed  ; by  many  authorities  it  is  stated  that 
brucine,  which  is  said  to  be  far  less  active  than  strychnine,  always  predominates,  but 
chemists  in  Europe  as  well  as  here  still  assume  the  equal  distribution  of  the  two  alka- 
loids in  case  of  volumetric  determinations.  Schweissinger  (1885)  has  recommended  to 
take  advantage  of  the  difference  in  saturating  power  of  brucine  and  strychnine,  and  thus 
obtain  more  accurate  results.  According  to  his  method,  it  becomes  necessary  first  to 
ascertain  the  weight  of  the  alkaloidal  residue  by  evaporating  the  united  chloroform 
solutions  of  the  above  process  to  dryness  in  a tared  beaker ; then  ascertain  the  exact 
amount  of  decinormal  acid  neutralized  by  the  mixture  according  to  the  official  directions, 
divide  the  weight  of  alkaloids  in  milligrammes  by  the  number  of  cubic  centimeters  of 
acid  neutralized  ; subtract  the  quotient  from  3.94  ; divide  the  remainder  by  6,  and  move 
the  decimal  point  three  places  to  the  right  to  obtain  the  percentage  of  strychnine. 
Example:  Weight  of  total  alkaloids  75  Mgm.;  volume  of  decinormal  acid  neutralized 
20.25  Cc.,  75  h-  20.25  = 3.704  ; 3.94  — 3.704  = 0.236  ; 0.236  6 = 0.0393,  giving  39.3 

per  cent,  of  strychnine  = 29.5  Mgm. ; 75  — 29.5  ==  45.5  Mgm.  of  brucine. 

Uses. — It  is  chiefly  used  as  an  ingredient  of  pills  intended  to  overcome  habitual 
atonic  constipation.  The  primary  dose  is  about  Gm.  0.03  (gr.  l)  ; it  may  gradually 
be  increased  to  Gm.  0.10-0.20  (gr.  ij-iij)  when  the  specific  action  of  the  drug  is 
sought. 


EXTRA CTUM  NUCTS  VOMICAE  FLUTDUM.—OPII. 


691 


EXTRACTUM  NUCIS  VOMICA  FLUIDUM,  U.  S.— Fluid  Extract 

of  Nux  Vomica. 

Extrait  liquide  de  noix  vomique,  Fr. ; Flussiges  Strgchnossamen-  Extrakt,  G. 

Preparation. — Nux  vomica,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Acetic  Acid  50  Cc. ; 
Alcohol,  Water,  each  a sufficient  quantity.  Mix  alcohol  and  water  in  the  proportion  of 
750  Cc.  of  alcohol  and  250  Cc.  of  water.  Moisten  the  powder  with  1000  Cc.  of  the 
mixture,  to  which  the  acetic  acid  had  previously  been  added,  and  let  it  digest,  in  a well- 
covered  vessel,  in  a warm  place,  during  forty -eight  hours.  Then  pack  it  in  a cylindrical 
glass  percolator,  and  gradually  pour  menstruum  upon  it  until  the  nux  vomica  is  practi- 
cally exhausted.  Distil  off  the  alcohol  by  means  of  a water-bath,  transfer  the  remainder 
to  a tared  capsule,  evaporate  it  until  it  weighs  about  200  Gm.,  and  allow  it  to  become 
cold.  Then  determine  the  weight  exactly,  remove  4 Gm.  of  the  mass,  and  assay  this  by 
the  process  given  under  Extract  of  Nux  Vomica  (see  Extractum  Nucis  Vomica),  using 
the  amount  of  liquids  there  directed  for  2 Gm.  of  dry  extract.  From  the  results  thus 
obtained  ascertain,  by  calculation,  the  amount  of  total  alkaloids  in  the  remainder  of  the 
mass,  and  then  add  to  the  latter,  first,  300  Cc.  of  alcohol,  and  afterward  a sufficient  quan- 
tity of  a mixture  of  3 volumes  of  alcohol  and  1 volume  of  water,  so  that  each  100  Cc. 
of  the  finished  fluid  extract  shall  contain  1.5  Gm.  of  total  alkaloids. — U.  S. 

If,  when  assayed,  the  moist  extract  should  be  found  to  contain  17.5  per  cent,  of  alka- 
loid, each  gramme  of  the  extract  will  make  11.66  Cc.  of  fluid  extract ; the  Pharmacopoeia 
requiring  100  Cc.  to  contain  1.5  Gm.  of  alkaloid,  each  Cc.  represents  0.015  Gm.,  and  if 
1 Gm.  of  the  moist  extract  contains  0.175  Gm.  of  alkaloid,  11.66  Cc.  of  fluid  extract 
made  therefrom  will  be  of  official  strength  for  0.015  : 1 : : 0.175  : x,  x — 11.66. 

(For  remarks  on  the  manipulation  we  refer  to  the  preceding  article.) 

Fluid  extract  of  nux  vomica,  being  practically  of  one-tenth  the  strength  of  the  solid 
extract,  it  can  be  conveniently  made  by  dissolving  the  latter  in  a mixture  of  alcohol  3 
volumes  and  water  1 volume  ; 366  grains  of  the  official  extract  should  be  dissolved  in  a 
sufficient  quantity  of  menstruum  to  make  the  solution  measure  8 fluidounces. 

Uses. — On  account  of  its  intense  bitterness  this  is  an  ineligible  preparation.  It 
should  be  largely  diluted  with  water.  Dose,  from  1 minim  to  5 or  more,  cautiously 
increased. 

EXTRACTUM  OPII,  U.  8.,  Br.,  P.  G.— Extract  of  Opium. 

Extractum,  thebaicum. — Extrait  d’ opium,  Extrait  theba'ique,  Fr.  ; Opium- Extrakt,  G. ; 
Estretto  di  oppio  acquosa , It. 

Preparation. — Powdered  Opium  100  Gm.  ; Sugar  of  Milk,  recently  dried  and  in 
fine  powder,  Water,  each  a sufficient  quantity.  Triturate  the  powdered  opium  in  a mortar 
thoroughly  with  1000  Cc.  of  water,  repeat  the  trituration  occasionally,  in  the  course  of 
twelve  hours,  then  filter  through  a rapidly-acting,  double  filter,  and  wash  the  filter  and 
residue  with  water,  until  the  filtrate  is  -nearly  colorless.  Concentrate  the  filtrate  and 
washings  in  a tared  capsule,  on  a water-bath,  until  the  residue  weighs  about  200  Gm., 
and  allow  it  to  become  cold.  Then  determine  the  weight  exactly;  transfer  12  Gm.  of  it 
to  an  Erlenmeyer  flask  having  a capacity  of  about  100  Cc.,  and  determine  in  this  portion 
the  amount  of  morphine  by  the  process  of  assay  given  below,  using  the  quantities  of 
liquids  there  directed  for  4 Gm.  of  the  dry  extract.  In  another  portion  of  5 Gm.  deter- 
mine the  amount  of  water  by  drying  it  in  a flat-bottomed  capsule,  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.), 
until  it  ceases  to  lose  weight.  From  the  results  thus  obtained  ascertain,  by  calculation, 
the  amount  of  morphine  and  of  water  contained  in  the  remainder  of  the  extract,  add  to 
this  enough  well-dried  sugar  of  milk  to  bring  the  quantity  of  morphine  in  the  final  drv 
extract  to  18  per  cent-.,  then  evaporate  the  whole  to  dryness,  reduce  it  to  powder,  and 
transfer  it  to  small,  well-stoppered  vials. 

Assay  of  Extract  of  Opium. — Extract  of  Opium,  dried  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  4 Gm.  ; Ammonia- 
water  2.2  Cc.  ; Alcohol,  Ether,  Water,  each  a sufficient  quantity.  Dissolve  the  extract  of  opium 
in  30  Cc.  of  water,  filter  the  solution  through  a small  filter,  and  wash  the  filter  and  residue  with 
water  (collecting  the  washings  separately)  until  no  more  soluble  matter  is  extracted.  Evaporate, 
first,  the  washings  in  a tared  capsule  to  a small  volume,  then  add  the  first  filtrate,  and  reduce  the 
whole  by  evaporation  to  a weight  of  10  Gm  Rotate  the  concentrated  solution  about  in  the  cap- 
sule until  the  rings  of  extract  are  redissolved,  pour  the  liquid  into  a tared  Erlenmayer  flask 
having  the  capacity  of  about  100  Cc.,  and  rinse  the  capsule  with  a few  drops  of  water  at  a time, 
until  the  entire  solution  weighs  15  Gm.  Then  add  7 Gm.  (or  8.5  Cc.)  of  alcohol,  shake  well,  add 
20  Cc.  of  ether,  and  shake  again.  Now  add  the  ammonia- water  from  a graduated  pipette  or 


692 


EXTR ACTUM  OPII  LIQUID UM. 


burette,  stopper  the  flask  well  with  a sound  cork,  shake  it  thoroughly  during  ten  minutes,  and 
then  set  it  aside,  in  a moderately  cool  place,  for  at  least  six  hours  or  over  night.  Remove  the 
stopper  carefully,  and,  should  any  crystals  adhere  to  it,  wash  them  into  the"  flask  with  a little 
ether.  Place  two  rapidly-acting  filters,  of  a diameter  of  7 Cm.,  plainly  folded,  one  within  the 
other  (the  triple  fold  of  the  inner  filter  being  laid  against  the  single  side  of  the  outer  filter) ; in 
a small  funnel,. wet  them  well  with  ether,  aud  decant  the  ethereal  solution  as  completely  as  pos- 
sible upon  the  inner  filter.  Add  10  Cc.  of  ether  to  the  contents  of  the  flask,  and  rotate  it ; again 
decant  the  ethereal  layer  upon  the  inner  filter,  and  repeat  this  operation  with  another  portion  of 
10  Cc.  of  ether.  Then  pour  into  the  filter  the  liquid  in  the  flask,  in  portions,  in  such  a way  as 
to  transfer  the  greater  portion  of  the  crystals  to  the  filter,  and  when  this  has  passed  through, 
transfer  the  remaining  crystals  to  the  filter  by  washing  the  flask  with  several  portions  of  water, 
using  not  more  than  about  10  Cc.  in  all.  Allow  the  double  filter  to  drain,  then  apply  water  to 
the  crystals,  drop  by  drop,  until  they  are  practically  free  from  mother-water,  and  afterwards 
wash  them,  drop  by  drop,  from  a pipette,  with  alcohol  previously  saturated  with  powdered  mor- 
phine. When  this  has  passed  through,  displace  the  remaining  alcohol  by  ether,  using  about  10 
Cc.  or  more  if  necessary.  Allow  the  double  filter  to  dry  in  a moderately  warm  place,  at  a tem- 
perature not  exceeding  60°  C.  (140°  F.),  until  its  weight  remains  constant ; then  carefully  trans- 
fer the  crystals  to  a tared  watchglass  and  weigh  them.  The  weight  found,  multiplied  by  25, 
represents  the  percentage  of  crystallized  morphine  in  the  extract. — U.  S. 

The  pharmacopoeias  agree  in  ordering  cold  water  for  the  extraction  of  crude  opium  ; 
only  the  U.  S.  P.  and  the  German  Pharmacopoeia  direct  the  use  of  powdered  opium  and 
common  water,  the  other  authorities  directing  distilled  water.  The  manipulation  does  not 
differ  materially  except  in  the  number  of  macerations  and  the  proportion  of  water  used. 
For  1 part  of  opium  two  macerations  are  directed  with  8 and  4 parts,  F.  Cod.  (with  5 
and  2-b  parts,  P.  G .),  of  water ; three  macerations  each  with  parts  of  water,  Br .,  and 
one  maceration  with  10  parts  of  water,  U.  S.  The  macerations  should  be  effected  at  a 
low  temperature,  say  about  60°  F.  At  a higher  temperature  a larger  amount  of  extract 
is  obtained,  more  largely  contaminated  with  narcotine  and  other  principles,  and  of  an 
inferior  quality. 

4 av.  ozs.  of  opium  should  be  macerated  with  21  pints  of  cold  water  during  twelve 
hours  with  frequent  trituration,  and  then  exhausted  on  a filter  as  directed ; the  filtrate 
should  be  concentrated  to  8 av.  ozs.,  allowed  to  become  cold,  and  then  assayed.  The 
necessary  amount  of  sugar  of  milk  to  be  added  to  bring  the  final  product  up  to  the 
official  standard  (18  per  cent,  of  crystallized  morphine)  is  readily  ascertained  : suppose 
the  residue  is  found  to  contain  72  per  cent,  of  moisture  and  7 per  cent,  of  morphine,  then 
every  100  Gm.  (or  grains)  of  residue  require  the  addition  of  11  (10.88  -j-)  Gm.  (or 
grains)  of  sugar  of  milk  before  final  evaporation  to  dryness,  for  100  -f  11=  HI,  which 
upon  drying  will  be  reduced  to  (111  — 72)  39  Gm.  (or  grains).  No  morphine  having 
been  lost,  the  7 parts  originally  present  in  the  100  parts  of  residue  will  now  be  contained 
in  the  39  parts  of  powder,  and  this  is  equal  to  18  per  cent.,  for  39  : 7 : : 100  : x (f8). 

Although  the  Pharmacopoeia  has  fixed  the  morphine  strength  of  extract  of  opium  only 
a few  per  cent,  above  that  for  powdered  opium,  yet  it  is  a source  of  gratification  that  a 
fixed  standard  has  at  last  been  adopted.  Powdered  opium  yields  variable  quantities  of 
extractive  matter  to  water  (40-60  per  cent.),  and  hence  the  uncertainty  of  a non-standard- 
ized  extract.  We  think  20  per  cent,  of  crystallized  morphine  would  have  been  a more 
desirable  strength  for  the  powdered  extract. 

Denarcotized  extract  of  opium  is  still  occasionally  employed.  It  may  be  obtained  by 
agitating  the  concentrated  infusion  with  2 portions  of  ether,  each  time  allowing  the  mix- 
ture to  settle,  and  decanting  the  ether,  which  dissolves  the  narcotine,  but  not  the  morphine  ; 
the  aqueous  liquid  is  then  evaporated  as  before.  This  extract  is  probably  in  no  way 
superior  to  the  official  preparation. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Unguentum  OPIATUM.  Unguentum  opii,  opium  oint- 
ment, is  made  by  triturating  1 part  of  extract  of  opium  with  1 part  of  water  and  adding 
18  parts  of  simple  ointment. — P.  G.  1872. 

Uses. — This  preparation  is  essentially  opium  purified  from  its  inert  constituents.  Its 
average  dose  is  about  Gm.  0.03  (gr.  1). 

EXTRACTUM  OPII  LIQUIDUM,  Br.— Liquid  Extract  of  Opium. 

Extrait  liquide  d' opium,  Fr. ; Fliissiges  Opium- Extrakt,  G. 

Preparation. — Extract  of  Opium  1 ounce  ; Distilled  Water  16  fluidounces;  Recti- 
fied Spirit  4 fluidounces.  Macerate  the  extract  of  opium  in  the  water  for  an  hour, 
stirring  frequently  ; then  add  the  spirit  and  filter.  The  product  should  measure  1 pint 
(Imperial).  It  contains  22  grains  of  extract  of  opium  (nearly)  in  1 fluidounce. — Br. 


EXTRA CTUM  PAPA  VERIS. — PA RFARJE  FLUID UM. 


693 


This  is  somewhat  stronger  in  opium  than  the  tincture  of  opium,  Br .,  and  scarcely 
deserves  to  be  classed  with  the  fluid  extracts ; it  is  analogous  to  the  Tinctura  opii 
deodorata,  U S.  The  specific  gravity  varies  between  0.985  and  0.995. 

Uses. — Essentially  a solution  of  the  watery  extract  of  opium,  this  preparation  is 
probably  less  apt  to  nauseate  and  constipate  than  laudanum.  Dose,  Gm.  0.60-2 
(npx-xxx). 

EXTRACTUM  PAPAVERIS,  Br.— Extract  of  Poppies. 

Extrait  de  pavot  ( capsules ),  Fr.  ; Molui-Extrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Poppy-capsules,  dried,  freed  from  the  seeds,  and  coarsely  powdered, 
1 pound;  Rectified  Spirit  2 ounces;  Boiling  Distilled  Water  a sufficiency.  Mix  the 
poppy-capsules  with  2 pints  of  the  water  and  infuse  for  twenty-four  hours,  stirring 
them  frequently  ; then  pack  them  in  a percolator,  and,  adding  more  of  the  water,  allow 
the  liquor  slowly  to  pass  until  about  a gallon  has  been  collected  or  the  poppies  are  ex- 
hausted. Evaporate  the  liquor  by  a water-bath  until  it  is  reduced  to  a pint,  and  when 
cold  add  the  spirit.  Let  the  mixture  stand  for  twenty-four  hours,  then  separate  the  clear 
liquor  by  filtration,  and  evaporate  this  by  a water-bath  until  the  extract  has  acquired  a 
suitable  consistence  for  forming  pills. — Br. 

Warm  water  extracts,  with  the  medicinal  principles,  also  the  mucilaginous  matters, 
which  are  but  imperfectly  precipitated  by  the  small  quantity  of  alcohol  added.  The 
yield  is  about  30  per  cent.  The  French  Codex  directs  extraction  with  60  per  cent,  alco- 
hol, which  yields  about  15  per  cent,  of  extract. 

Uses. — This  extract  appears  to  be  unnecessary.  It  has  no  virtues  that  are  not  more 
decided  in  the  various  preparations  of  opium.  Dose , Gm.  0.10-0.30  (gr.  ij-v). 

EXTRACTUM  PAREIRiE,  Br. — Extract  of  Pareira. 

Extrait  de  pareira  brava,  Fr. ; Pareira- Extr  akt,  G. 

Preparation. — Pareira-root,  in  coarse  powder,  1 pound ; Boiling  Distilled  Water  1 
gallon  or  a sufficiency.  Digest  the  pareira  with  a pint  of  the  water  for  twenty-four  hours, 
then  pack  in  a percolator,  and,  adding  more  of  the  water,  allow  the  liquor  slowly  to  pass 
until  a gallon  has  been  collected  or  the  pareira  is  exhausted.  Evaporate  the  liquor  by 
a water-bath  until  the  extract  has  acquired  a suitable  consistence  for  forming  pills. 
— Br. 

The  use  of  boiling  water,  followed  by  prolonged  digestion,  must  result  in  the  solu- 
tion of  the  starch,  which  is  but  imperfectly  removed  by  the  subsequent  percolation. 
A diluted  alcohol  would  seem  to  be  a very  appropriate  menstruum  for  exhausting 
pareira. 

Uses. — The  solid  form  of  a medicine  intended  to  act  upon  the  mucous  membrane 
of  the  urinary  passages  cannot  be  an  eligible  one.  The  fluid  extract  and  the  decoction 
are  greatly  preferable.  Dose , Gm.  0.60-1.20  (gr.  x-xx). 

EXTRACTUM  PAREIRA  FLUIDUM,  U.  #.-Fluid  Extract  of 

Pareira. 

Extr actum  pareirse  liquidum , Br. — Liquid  extract  of  pareira , E. ; Extrait  liquide  de 
pareira  brava , Fr. ; Fliissiges  Pareira-  Extr akt,  G. 

Preparation. — Pareira,  in  No.  40  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Glycerin,  100  Cc. ; Alcohol, 
water,  each,  a sufficient  quantity  to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  glycerin  with  720  Cc.  of 
alcohol  and  180  Cc.  of  water,  and,  having  moistened  the  powder  with  400  Cc.  of  the 
mixture,  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator  ; then  add  enough  menstruum  to  satu- 
rate the  powder  and  leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from 
the  percolator  close  the  lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  mace- 
rate for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding, 
first,  the  remainder  of  the  menstruum,  and  afterward,  a mixture  of  alcohol  and  water, 
made  in  the  proportion  of  400  Cc.  of  alcohol  to  100  Cc.  of  water  until  the  pareira  is 
exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  850  Cc.  of  the  percolate.  By  means  of  a water-bath 
distil  off  the  alcohol  from  the  remainder,  and  evaporate  the  residue  to  a soft  extract ; 
dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  menstruum  to  make  the  fluid 
extract  measure  1000  Cc. — l . S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  10  fluidounces  of  menstruum 
composed  of  alcohol  17  fluidounces,  water  fluidounces,  glycerin  fluidounces,  and 


694  EXTRACT VM  PHYSOSTIGMA  TIS.— PHYTOLACCA  RADICIS  FLUID UM. 


the  first  21  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve.  Subsequent  percolation  should 
be  continued  with  a mixture  of  alcohol  4 volumes,  water  1 volume,  and  the  final  volume 
of  finished  product  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

Take  of  Extract  of  Pareira,  Distilled  Water,  Rectified  Spirit,  of  each  a sufficiency. 
Dissolve  4 parts  of  the  extract  in  a sufficient  quantity  of  a mixture  of  1 fluid  part  of 
rectified  spirit  and  3 parts  of  water  to  form  16  fluid  parts  of  liquid  extract.  Filter  if 
necessary. — Br. 

The  second  preparation  is  really  a concentrated  infusion  preserved  by  one-third  its 
volume  of  alcohol. 

The  fluid  extract  is  of  a brown  color,  and  possesses  the  peculiar  bitter  taste  of  the 
root  in  a marked  degree. 

The  proportion  of  alcohol  in  the  official  menstruum  seems  to  us  to  be  unnecessarily 
large,  being  even  greater  than  that  suggested  by  A.  Robbins  in  1883.  Experience  has 
shown  that  a very  satisfactory  fluid  extract  of  pareira  can  be  made  with  a menstruum 
composed  of  alcohol  5 volumes,  water  4 volumes,  and  glycerin  1 volume. 

Uses. — This  preparation  probably  contains  all  the  medicinal  qualities  of  pareira 
brava.  It  may  be  given  in  doses  of  Gm.  4 (f^j)  three  times  a day,  largely  diluted. 

EXTRAOTUM  PHYSOSTIGMATIS,  U.  S.,  Br.— Extract  of  Physo- 

STIGMA. 

Extraction  false  Calabaricse. — Extrait  alcoolique  de  Jeve  de  Calabar , Fr. ; Kalabar- 
bolinen-Extrakt , Physostigma- Extrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Physostigma,  in  No.  80  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Alcohol  a sufficient 
quantity.  Moisten  the  powder  with  400  Cc.  of  alcohol,  and  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylin- 
drical percolator  ; then  add  enough  alcohol  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a stratum 
above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator  close  the  lower  orifice, 
and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow 
the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  alcohol,  until  3000  Cc.  of  tincture  are 
obtained  or  the  physostigma  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  900  Cc.  of  the  percolate  ; 
evaporate  the  remainder,  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  50°  C.  (122°  F.),  to  100  Cc. ; 
mix  this  with  the  reserved  portion,  and  evaporate  in  a porcelain  capsule  on  a water-bath 
to  a pilular  consistence. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  10  fluidounces  of  alcohol,  and 
percolation  continued  until  about  75  fluidounces  of  percolate  have  been  obtained.  The 
first  22  fluidounces  should  be  set  aside  as  reserve,  and  the  balance  evaporated  to  2?  fluid- 
ounces  before  adding  the  reserve  portion  for  final  evaporation  to  a pilular  consistence. 

The  British  Pharmacopoeia  directs  maceration  and  percolation  with  alcohol  spec.  grav. 
0.838 ; the  French  Codex  orders  digestion  for  two  hours,  followed  by  percolation 
with  hot  alcohol  spec.  grav.  0.864  ; the  former  German  Pharmacopoeia  employed  alcohol, 
spec.  grav.  0.893,  and  exhausted  by  maceration.  Strong  alcohol  yields  only  5 or  6 per 
cent,  of  extract,  which,  owing  to  the  resinous  and  oily  constituents,  is  obtainable  of  a 
homogeneous  condition  only  by  constant  stirring  during  the  latter  part  of  the  process. 
By  the  use  of  weaker  alcohol  a more  uniform  and  less  oily  extract  is  obtained,  and  the 
yield  is  increased  to  10  or  12  per  cent.  It  is  evident  from  this  that  the  strict  adherence 
to  the  menstruum  directed  by  the  pharmacopoeias  is  of  primary  importance.  The 
extract  is  of  a greenish-brown  color.  Kennedy  (1875)  suggested  the  addition  of  glycerin 
to  keep  it  soft  and  to  render  it  more  convenient  for  dispensing. 

Uses. — The  extract  represents  all  the  active  constituents  of  Calabar  bean.  Its 
average  dose  may  be  stated  at  Gm.  0.006  (gr.  yL-).  Hiller  used,  to  overcome  constipation 
with  flatulent  distension  of  the  bowel,  the  following:  Ext.  Calabar  bean  Gm.  0.10;  Gly- 
cerin 30  Gm. — M.  S.  10  drops,  equal  to  about  grain,  three  or  four  times  a day.  In 
this  dose  it  may  also  be  used  to  counteract  colliquative  sweats. 

EXTRACTUM  PHYTOLACCA  RADICIS  FLUIDUM,  77.  £.-Fluid 

Extract  of  Phytolacca-root. 

Fluid  extract  of  poke-root,  E. ; Extrait  liquide  du  racine  de  phytolaque , Fr. ; Flussiges 
Kermesbeerenwurzel-  Extrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Phytolacca-root,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Alcohol,  Water,  each, 
a sufficient  quantity,  to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  600  Cc.  of  alcohol  with  300  Cc.  of  water, 
and,  having  moistened  the  powder  with  400  Cc.  of  the  mixture,  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylin- 


EXTRACTUM  PILOCARPI  FLUWUM.—PODOPHYLLI 


695 


drical  percolator  ; then  add  enough  menstruum  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a stratum 
above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator  close  the  lower  orifice, 
and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow 
the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  menstruum,  using  the  same  proportions  of 
alcohol  and  water  as  before,  until  the  phytolacca-root  is  exhausted,  lieserve  the  first 
800  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remainder  in  a porcelain  capsule  at  a temper- 
ature not  exceeding  50°  C.  (122°  F.),  to  a soft  extract ; dissolve  this  in  the  reserved 
portion,  and  add  enough  menstruum  to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  10  fluidounces  of  the  men- 
struum (alcohol  2 volumes,  water  1 volume),  and  the  first  193  fluidounces  of  percolate 
set  aside  as  reserve.  The  final  volume  of  finished  product  should  be  made  up  to  24 
fluidounces. 

Dose , Gm.  0.3  to  2 (^Iv-xxx). 

EXTRACTUM  PILOCARPI  FLUIDUM,  77.  S,— Fluid  Extract  of 

Pilocarpus. 

Fluid  extract,  of  jaborandi , E. ; Extrait  liquide  de  jaborandi , Fr. ; Fliissiges  Jaborandi- 
Extrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Pilocarpus,  in  No.  40  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Diluted  Alcohol  a suffi- 
cient quantity,  to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  350  Cc.  of  diluted  alcohol, 
and  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator ; then  add  enough  diluted  alcohol  to  satu- 
rate the  powder  and  leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the 
percolator  close  the  lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate 
for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  diluted 
alcohol,  until  the  pilocarpus  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  850  Cc.  of  the  percolate, 
and  evaporate  the  remainder,  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  50°  C.  (122°  F.),  to  a soft 
extract ; dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  diluted  alcohol  to  make 
the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  9 fluidounces  of  menstruum, 
and  the  first  21  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve ; the  final  volume  of  the  fin- 
ished product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

This  is  essentially  the  process  recommended  by  Dr.  F.  V.  Greene  (1877),  who  also 
called  attention  to  the  difficulty  of  packing  powdered  pilocarpus-leaves  properly  for  per- 
colation, owing  to  the  strong  fibres  of  the  veins  and  the  tough  epidermal  tissue,  for 
which  reason  he  suggested  placing  a rather  thick  layer  of  sand  upon  the  powder.  The 
fluid  extract  is  of  a greenish-red-brown  color.  A somewhat  more  aqueous  menstruum 
has  been  suggested  by  A.  Robbins  as  preserving  the  properties  equally  well. 

Extractum  jaborandi,  Br.,  is  made  with  proof  spirit.  Dose , Gm.  0.12-0.66  (2  to  10  grains). 

Uses. — This  preparation  is  far  inferior  in  promptness  and  efficiency  of  action  to  pilo- 
carpine administered  hypodermically,  but  is  preferable  to  the  other  liquid  preparations  of 
jaborandi.  Dose,  Gm.  0.60-1  (rr^x-xv),  gradually  increased,  at  short  intervals,  until  its 
specific  operation  is  manifested. 

EXTRACTUM  PODOPHYLLI,  77,  S.— Extract  of  Podophyllum. 

Extract  of  May-apple  or  of  mandrake,  E. ; Extrail  de  podophylle,  Fr. ; Podophyllum- 
Extrakt,  G. 

Preparation. — Podophyllum,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm.  ; Alcohol,  Water,  each  a 
sufficient  quantity.  Mix  alcohol  and  water  in  the  proportion  of  800  Cc.  of  alcohol  with 
200  Cc.  of  water,  and,  having  moistened  the  powder  with  300  Cc.  of  the  mixture,  pack 
it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator;  then  add  enough  of  the  menstruum  to  saturate  the 
powder  and  leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  perco- 
lator close  the  lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty- 
eight  hours.  Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  menstruum,  until 
the  podophyllum  is  exhausted.  By  means  of  a water-bath  distil  off  the  alcohol  from 
the  tincture,  and  evaporate  the  residue  to  a pilular  consistence. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  73  fluidounces  of  menstruum 
(alcohol  4 volumes,  water  1 volume),  and  percolation  continued  to  exhaustion. 

The  menstruum  is  admirably  adapted  for  the  complete  extraction  of  the  active  prin- 
ciples of  podophyllum.  The  color  of  the  extract  is  a deep  brown,  and  the  yield  about 
20  to  22  per  cent. 


696  EXTRACTUM  P0D0PHYLL1  FL UID UM.—PR UNI  VIRGINIANS  FLUID UM. 


Uses. — The  operation  of  this  medicine  closely  resembles  that  of  extract  of  jalap ; it 
may  be  used  for  the  same  purpose  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.30-1.20  (gr.  v-xx). 

EXTRACTUM  PODOPHYLLI  FLUIDUM.— Fluid  Extract  of  Podo- 
phyllum. 

Fluid  extract  of  May-apple  or  of  mandrake , E. ; Extrait  liquide  de  podophylle , Fr. ; 
Fliissiges  Podophyllum-  Extra kt,  G. 

Preparation. — Podophyllum,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm.  ; Alcohol,  Water,  each  a 
sufficient  quantity,  to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  800  Cc.  of  alcohol  with  200  Cc.  of  water, 
and,  having  moistened  the  powder  with  300  Cc.  of  the  mixture,  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylin- 
drical percolator  ; then  add  enough  of  the  menstruum  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a 
stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator  close  the  lower 
orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then 
allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  menstruum,  until  the  podophyllum  is 
exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  850  Cc.  of  the  percolate  ; by  means  of  a water-bath  distil 
off  the  alcohol  from  the  remainder ; dissolve  the  residue  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add 
enough  menstruum  to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  7?  fluidounces  of  menstruum 
(alcohol  4 volumes,  water  1 volume),  and  the  first  21  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside  as 
reserve ; the  final  volumes  of  finished  product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

The  fluid  extract  is  of  a dark  brown-red  color.  Being  prepared  with  the  same  men- 
struum, it  may  be  used  for  the  extemporaneous  preparation  of  the  preceding  extract. 

Uses. — It  is  inferior  to  the  solid  extract  for  most  of  the  purposes  for  which  podo- 
phyllum is  used.  Dose , Gm.  0.60-1.20  (npx-xx). 

EXTRACTUM  PRUNI  VIRGINIANS  FLUIDUM.— Fluid.  Extract  of 

Wild  Cherry. 

Extrait  liquide  dl ecorce  de  cerisier  de  Virqinie , Fr.  ; Fliissiqes  Wildkirschenrinden- 
Extrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Wild  Cherry,  in  No.  20  powder,  1000  Gm.  ; Glycerin,  100  Cc. ; Alco- 
hol, Water,  each  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  glycerin  with  200  Cc. 
of  water,  and,  having  moistened  the  powder  with  the  mixture,  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylin- 
drical glass  percolator,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty- 
eight  hours ; then  gradually  add  menstruum,  made  in  the  proportion  of  850  Cc.  of  alco- 
hol, to  150  Cc.  of  water,  and  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed  until  the  wild  cherry  is 
exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  800  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remainder  to  a 
soft  extract.  Dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  menstruum  to  make 
the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  a mixture  of  glycerin  2\  fluidounces 
and  water  5 fluidounces  and  after  macerating  for  forty-eight  hours  percolation  is  to  be 
continued  with  a menstruum  composed  of  alcohol  8J  volumes,  water  1J  volumes.  The 
first  19J  fluidounces  of  percolate  should  be  set  aside  as  reserve,  and  the  final  volume  of 
finished  product  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

This  is  one  of  those  troublesome  fluid  extracts  the  formula  of  which  has  been  changed 
since  its  introduction  in  each  subsequent  edition  of  the  Pharmacopoeia.  The  one  sug- 
gested by  Prof.  Proctor  in  1859,  in  which  the  bark  was  exhausted  by  alcohol,  and  after 
the  evaporation  of  the  menstruum  the  decompositum  of  amygdalin  was  effected  by  emul- 
sion of  almonds,  was  an  efficient  and  elegant  preparation,  but  objected  to  on  account  of 
troublesome  manipulation.  We  think  that  a No.  30  powder  would  be  preferable  to  No. 
20,  as  it  would  admit  of  firmer  packing  and  more  thorough  exhaustion  with  less  men- 
struum, and  we  cannot  see  the  advantage  of  so  large  a proportion  of  alcohol  as  is  directed 
in  the  official  menstruum  ; in  our  experience,  a mixture  of  alcohol  2 volumes,  water  6 
volumes,  and  glycerin  2 volumes,  has  been  found  to  yield  a preparation  satisfactory  in 
every  way.  A.  Robbins  (1883)  suggested  a formula  containing  20  per  cent,  of  sugar, 
10  per  cent,  of  glycerin,  and  a weak  alcohol  (about  20  per  cent.).  (See  Am.  Jour.  Phar. 
1883.) 

The  fluid  extract  is  of  a deep  brownish-red  color,  and  when  recently  made  has  the 
bitter-almond  odor  in  a marked  degree,  and  possesses  also  the  astringent  and  pleasantly 
bitter  taste  of  the  bark ; the  odor  diminishes  in  the  course  of  time,  and  finally  dis- 
appears. 


EXTRA  CTZJM  QUASSIA— RHAMNI  PURSHIANxE  FLU  IDEM. 


697 


Uses. — If*  well  prepared,  this  extract  represents  more  fully  and  in  a more  convenient 
form  than  any  other  preparation  the  virtues  of  wild-cherry-bark.  It  is  an  excellent 
adjuvant  to  cough  mixtures  in  chronic  pulmonary  affections,  and  a palliative  of  nervous 
disorder  of  the  heart’s  action.  The  dose  is  from  6m.  2-4  (gr.  xxx-lx),  and  should  be 
gradually  increased. 

EXTR ACTUM  QUASSLE,  IT.  S.,  Br.— Extract  of  Quassia. 

Extrait  de  quassie.  (hois  a??ier)  Fr. ; Quassien- Extrakt , Gr. ; Estratto  di  quassia  acquosa,  It. 

Preparation. — Quassia,  in  No.  20  powder,  1000  Gm.  ; Water,  a sufficient  quantity. 
Moisten  the  powder  with  400  Cc.  of  water,  pack  it  firmly  in  a conical  percolator,  and 
gradually  pour  water  upon  it  until  the  infusion  passes  but  slightly  imbued  with  bitterness. 
Reduce  the  liquid  to  three-fourths  of  its  weight  by  boiling  and  strain  ; then  by  means  of 
a water-bath  evaporate  to  a pilular  consistence. — U S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  10  fluidounces  of  water  before 
it  is  packed  in  the  percolator. 

The  British  and  French  Pharmacopoeias  unite  in  ordering  distilled  water.  With  cold 
water  the  yield  varies  between  2?  and  5 per  cent.  J.  S.  Whall  (1874)  observed  that  1 
part  of  quassia  is  practically  exhausted  by  obtaining  from  it  4 parts  of  -percolate,  and 
will  yield  rather  less  than  31  per  cent,  of  extract  if  water,  or  a little  more  if  diluted 
alcohol,  is  used ; the  latter  is  considered  preferable.  The  yield  is  increased  to  about  6 or 
7 per  cent,  if  boiling  water  is  used,  but  the  extract  has  a jelly-like  appearance,  probably 
from  pectin  compounds,  and  after  some  time  contains  a considerable  quantity  of  crystals. 
The  concentrated  infusion  should  be  filtered  before  final  evaporation,  as  directed  by  the 
British  Pharmacopoeia. 

Uses. — This  preparation  possesses  the  virtues  of  quassia  in  a concentrated  state. 
Dose , Gm.  0.06—0.12  (gr.  j-ij).  It  is  usually  associated  with  tonics  of  another  order — 
e.  g.  quinine,  iron,  etc. 

EXTRACTUM  QUASSLE  FLUIDUM.— Fluid  Extract  of  Quassia. 

Extrait  liquide  de  quassie , Fr.  ; Flussiges  Quassien-Extrakt , G. 

Preparation.— Quassia,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Alcohol,  Water,  each,  a suf- 
ficient quantity,  to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  300  Cc.  of  alcohol  with  600  Cc.  of  water,  and,  hav- 
ing moistened  the  powder  with  400  Cc.  of  the  mixture,  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  perco- 
lator ; then  add  enough  menstruum  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a stratum  above  it. 
When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator  close  the  lower  orifice,  and,  having 
closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow  the  percolation  to 
proceed,  gradually  adding  menstruum,  using  the  same  proportions  of  alcohol  and  water 
as  before,  until  the  quassia  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  900  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and 
evaporate  the  remainder  to  a soft  extract ; dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add 
enough  diluted  alcohol  to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  10  fluidounces  of  menstruum, 
alcohol  1 volume,  water  2 volumes,  and  the  first  22  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside  as 
reserve ; the  final  volume  of  finished  product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

The  bitter  principle  of  quassia  is  perfectly  soluble  in  water,  and  the  fluid  extract  made 
with  the  official  menstruum  will  probably  keep  as  well  as  that  made  with  diluted  alcohol, 
as  directed  in  1880.  We  have  had  no  experience  with  the  present  menstruum.  The 
fluid  extract  has  a brown-yellow  color  and  a persistently  bitter  taste. 

Uses. — The  intense  bitterness  of  this  preparation  renders  it  ineligible  as  an  internal 
medicine  unless  it  is  largely  diluted.  It  may  be  used  as  an  addition  to  various  bitter 
tonic  mixtures.  Dose , Gm.  0.30—1.30  (n^v-xx.) 

EXTRACTUM  RHAMNI  PURSHIAN.E  FLUIDUM,  V.  S.— Fluid 
Extract  of  Rhamnus  Purshiana. 

Extr actum  cascarse  sagradae  liquid, um.  Br. ; Liquid  extract  of  cascara  sagrada , E. ; 
Extrait  liquide  de  cascara  sagrada , Fr.  ; Flussiges  Cascara  Sagrada- Extrakt,  G. 

Preparation. — Rhamnus  Purshiana,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Diluted  Alcohol 
a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  400  Cc.  of  diluted 
alcohol,  and  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator ; then  add  enough  diluted  alcohol 
to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop 


698 


EXTRACTUM  RHEI. 


from  the  percolator,  close  the  lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator, 
macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding 
diluted  alcohol,  until  the  rhamnus  purshiana  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  800  Cc.  of 
the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remainder  to  a soft  extract ; dissolve  this  in  the  reserved 
portion,  and  add  enough  diluted  alcohol  to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — 
U.  S. 

25.  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  10  fluidounces  of  menstruum, 
and  the  first  19  J fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve  ; the  final  volume  of  finished 
product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

The  Br.  Ph.  directs  that  the  bark  shall  be  exhausted  by  boiling  with  3 or  4 successive 
quantities  of  water ; the  strained  liquors  are  to  be  evaporated  on  a water-bath  to  three- 
fourths  of  the  weight  of  the  drug  used,  and  when  cold  mixed  with  rectified  spirit  (one- 
fourth  the  intended  volume  of  the  finished  product). 

According  to  J.  Moss  (1892)  cold  water  extracts  all  the  virtues  of  cascara  sagrada 
bark,  and  yields  an  extract  which  does  not  deposit  on  keeping  and  which  mixes  clear 
with  water ; he  recommends  to  macerate  the  bark,  in  No.  20  powder,  for  a few  hours 
with  cold  water,  then  to  pack  loosely  and  exhaust  with  water.  The  percolate  is  to  be 
evaporated  to  a dry  extract,  mixed  with  cold  water,  strained,  and  evaporated  to  a definite 
volume,  which  is  then  mixed  with  one-third  of  its  volume  of  alcohol. 

The  so-called  tasteless  fluid  extract  of  cascara  sagrada  may  be  prepared  by  mixing  25 
av,  ozs.  of  the  drug  with  1£  ozs.  of  calcined  magnesia,  and  then  treating  with  diluted 
alcohol  as  directed  above. 

Extractum  cascara  sagrada,  Br.,  is  prepared  by  percolating  the  bark  first  with  proof  spirit 
(diluted  alcohol  sp.  gr.  0.920),  and  finally  with  water,  and  evaporating  the  mixed  percolate  to  a 
pilular  consistence. 

Dose , Gm.  0.60-4  (npx-lx). 

EXTRACTUM  RHEI,  V . S.,  Br P.  G. — Extract  of  Rhubarb. 

Extractum  rhei  alcoholicum. — Extrait  de  rhubarbe , Fr. ; Rhabarber-Extrakt , G. ; Estratto 
di  rabarbaro , It. 

Preparation. — Rhubarb,  in  No.  30  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Alcohol,  Water,  each  a 
sufficient  quantity.  Mix  alcohol  and  water  in  the  proportion  of  800  Cc.  of  alcohol  and 
200  Cc.  of  water,  and,  having  moistened  the  powder  with  400  Cc.  of  the  mixture,  pack 
it  firmly  in  a conical  percolator ; then  gradually  pour  the  menstruum  upon  it  until  the 
tincture  passes  nearly  tasteless.  Reserve  the  first  1000  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  set  it 
aside  in  a warm  place  until  it  is  reduced  by  spontaneous  evaporation  to  500  Cc.  Evap- 
orate the  remainder  of  the  percolate  in  a porcelain  vessel  by  means  of  a water-bath,  at  a 
temperature  not  exceeding  70°  C.  (158°  F.),  to  the  consistence  of  syrup  ; mix  this  with 
the  reserved  portion,  and  continue  the  evaporation  until  the  mixture  is  reduced  to  a 
pilular  consistence. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  rhubarb  should  be  moistened  with  about  10  fluidounces  of  menstruum, 
and  the  first  25  fluidounces  of  percolate  evaporated  spontaneously  in  a warm  place  until 
reduced  to  12^  fluidounces ; the  balance  of  the  percolate  should  be  evaporated  on  a 
water-bath  to  the  consistence  of  syrup,  mixed  with  the  reserved  portion,  and  finally 
evaporated  to  a pilular  consistence. 

The  other  pharmacopoeias  prepare  this  extract  by  maceration,  and  employ  a menstruum 
composed  of  2 parts  of  alcohol  sp.  gr.  0.832  and  3 parts  of  water,  P.  G. ; proof  spirit, 
4 fluid  parts,  followed  by  distilled  water,  Br. ; cold  distilled  water,  F.  Cod.  Each  of 
these  liquids  gives  an  efficient  extract,  the  yield  of  which  necessarily  varies  with  the 
quality  of  the  root,  it  being  from  35  to  40  per  cent,  when  made  with  cold  water,  and 
from  40  to  50  per  cent,  if  prepared  with  an  alcoholic  liquid.  The  extract  is  yellowish- 
brown,  bitter,  has  the  odor  of  rhubarb,  and  yields  with  water  a turbid  solution. 

Extractum  rhei  compositum,  P.  G.  Extract  of  rhubarb  30  parts,  extract  of  aloes 
10  parts,  resin  of  jalap  5 parts,  and  soap  20  parts  ; triturate  together,  moisten  with  diluted 
alcohol,  mix  well,  and  dry.  It  is  of  a blackish-brown  color,  and  is  also  known  as  Extrac- 
tum catholicum  s.  panchymagogum. 

Uses. — Owing  to  the  difficulty  of  obtaining  this  preparation  of  proper  quality,  it  is 
scarcely  to  be  preferred  to  good  rhubarb-root.  Its  dose , as  a purgative,  is  Gm.  0.60-1 
(gr.  x-xv). 


EXTRACTUM  RHEI  FLUIDUM.—RHOIS  GLABRAE  FLUIDUM. 


699 


EXTRACTUM  RHEI  FLUIDUM,  U.  S. — Fluid  Extract  of  Rhubarb. 

Extrait  liquide  de  rhubarbe , Fr. ; Fliissiges  Rhabarber-Extralct,  G. 

Preparation. — Rhubarb,  in  No.  30  powder,  1000  Gm.  ; Alcohol,  water,  each  a suffi- 
cient quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  800  Cc.  of  alcohol  with  200  Cc.  of  water,  and, 
having  moistened  the  powder  with  400  Cc.  of  the  mixture,  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical 
percolator;  then  add  enough  of  the  menstruum  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a 
stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator  close  the  lower 
orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then 
allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  menstruum,  until  the  rhubarb  is 
exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  750  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remainder  at  a 
temperature  not  exceeding  70°  C.  (156°  F.)  to  a soft  extract;  dissolve  this  in  the 
reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  menstruum  to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000 
Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  10  fluidounces  of  menstruum 
(alcohol  4 volumes,  water  1 volume),  and  the  first  181  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside 
as  reserve ; the  final  volume  of  finished^product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

This  fluid  extract  has  undergone  considerable  modifications.  The  root,  exhausted  by 
an  alcoholic  menstruum,  and  the  liquid,  after  the  evaporation  of  the  alcohol,  preserved 
by  sugar,  resulted  in  a fluid  extract  which  was  very  thick  and  deposited  considerably.  A 
fluid  extract  prepared  with  cold  water  and  preserved  by  sugar,  as  recommended  by  Geo. 
Bille  (1872),  is  free  from  the  last-named  objection,  but,  it  was  claimed,  though  fairly 
active,  not  to  contain  ail  the  purgative  principles  of  rhubarb.  The  use  of  glycerin  with 
an  alcoholic  menstruum  proved  a failure  with  the  fluid  extract,  as  it  did  with  the  tinc- 
ture, the  liquids,  although  clear  for  a time,  precipitating  more  copiously  afterward.  The 
present  menstruum  yields  a fluid  extract  which  precipitates  only  very  slightly,  and  is 
almost  identical  with  that  proposed  by  A.  Robbins  in  1883;  a fluid  extract  thus  pre- 
pared retained  its  fluidity  for  nearly  four  years.  None  of  these  different  fluid  extracts 
will  yield  clear  mixtures  with  aqueous  liquids  unless  an  alkali  be  added.  Fluid  extract 
of  rhubarb  is  of  a blackish  red-brown  color,  and  has  the  odor  and  taste  of  the  drug. 

Uses. — This  fluid  extract  is  not  often  used  as  a purgative,  but  its  dose  may  be  stated 
at  from  Gm.  0.60-2.00  (n^x-xxx). 

EXTRACTUM  RHOIS  GLABRAE  FLUIDUM,  U.  S.— Fluid  Extract  of 

Rhus  Glabra. 

Fluid  extract  of  sumach-berries , E. ; Extrait  liquide  de  fruit  de  sumac , Fr. ; Fliissiges 
Sumachbeeren-Extrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Rhus  Glabra,  in  No.  40  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Glycerin,  100  Cc. ; 
Diluted  Alcohol  a sufficient  quantity ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  glycerin  with  900  Cc. 
of  diluted  alcohol,  and,  having  moistened  the  powder  with  350  Cc.  of  the  mixture,  pack 
it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator:  then  add  enough  of  the  menstruum  to  saturate  the 
powder  and  leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  perco- 
lator close  the  lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty- 
eight  hours.  Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding,  first,  the  remainder 
of  the  menstruum,  and  afterward  diluted  alcohol,  until  the  rhus  glabra  is  exhausted. 
Reserve  the  first  800  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remainder  to  a soft  extract ; 
dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  diluted  alcohol  to  make  the  fluid 
extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  9 fluidounces  of  a menstruum 
composed  of  diluted  alcohol  21|  fluidounces  and  glycerin  2\  fluidounces;  subsequent 
percolation  is  to  be  continued  with  diluted  alcohol.  The  first  191  fluidounces  of  perco- 
late should  be  set  aside  as  a reserve,  and  the  final  volume  of  finished  product  made  up  to 

24  fluidounces. 

As  originally  suggested  by  Prof.  Remington  (1874),  this  fluid  extract  contained  about 

25  per  cent,  of  glycerin  and  a slightly  weaker  alcohol  than  the  above,  and  kept  well  for  a 
long  time.  Mr.  A.  Robbins  suggests  a still  weaker  alcohol,  by  using  1 part  of  alcohol 
to  2 parts  of  water  (or  25  to  41  measures),  80  parts  of  which  menstruum  are  to  be 
mixed  with  20  parts  of  glycerin.  The  fluid  extract  is  of  a deep-red  color,  and  has  a 
pleasant  acidulous  and  astringent  taste. 

Uses. — The  fluid  extract  may  sometimes  be  more  convenient  than  the  infusion  of 
sumach-berries  treated  of  elsewhere.  (See  Rhus  Glabrum.)  Diluted  with  water,  it 
forms  an  excellent  detergent  and  stimulating  gargle  and  mouth-wash. 


700 


EXTRACTUM  ROSjE  FL UIT) UM.—R UMICIS  FLUIDUM. 


EXTRACTUM  ROS.E  FLUIDUM,  77.  Fluid  Extract  of  Rose. 

Fluid  extract  of  red  rose , E. ; Extrait  liquide  de  rose  rouge , Fr.  ; Fliissiges  Essigrosen - 
Extrakt,  G. 

Preparation. — Red  Rose,  in  No.  30  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Glycerin  100  Cc. ; Diluted 
Alcohol  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  glycerin  with  900  Cc.  of 
diluted  alcohol,  and,  having  moistened  the  powder  with  400  Cc.  of  the  mixture,  pack  it 
firmly  in  a cylindrical  glass  percolator ; then  add  enough  of  the  menstruum  to  saturate 
the  powder  and  leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  per- 
colator close  the  lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for 
forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding,  first,  the 
remainder  of  the  menstruum,  and  afterward  diluted  alcohol,  until  the  red  rose  is  exhausted. 
Reserve  the  first  750  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remainder  to  a soft  extract; 
dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  diluted  alcohol  to  make  the  fluid 
extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  10  fluidounces  of  a menstruum 
composed  of  dilute  alcohol  21J  fluidounces  and  glycerin  21  fluidounces;  subsequent  per- 
colation is  to  be  continued  with  diluted  alcohol.  The  first  18J  fluidounces  of  percolate 
should  be  set  aside  as  reserve,  and  the  final  volume  of  finished  product  made  up  to  24 
fluidounces. 

This  fluid  extract  is  of  a deep-red  color,  of  an  agreeable  odor  of  rose,  and  of  a pleasant 
mildly-astringent  taste. 

Uses. — An  agreeable  ingredient  of  gargles  and  mouth-washes.  It  may  take  the 
place  of  rose-leaves  in  the  compound  infusion  of  rose ; it  masks  the  taste  of  solutions 
of  Epsom  and  Glauber  salts,  and  imparts  a pleasing  odor  to  many  magistral  mixtures. 

EXTRACTUM  RUBI  FLUIDUM,  77.  S.~ Fluid  Extract  of  Rubus. 

Fluid  extract  of  blackberry -bark,  E. ; Extrait  liquide  d’ecorce  de  ronce , Fr. ; Fliissiges 
Brombeerrinden- Extrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Rubus,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Glycerin  100  Cc. ; Alcohol, 
Y/ater,  each  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  glycerin  with  600  Cc.  of 
alcohol  and  300  Cc.  of  water,  and.  having  moistened  the  powder  with  350  Cc.  of  the 
mixture,  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator ; then  add  enough  of  the  menstruum 
to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop 
from  the  percolator  close  the  lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator, 
macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding, 
first,  the  remainder  of  the  menstruum,  and  afterward  a mixture  of  alcohol  and  water 
made  in  the  proportion  of  600  Cc.  of  alcohol  to  300  Cc.  of  water  until  the  rubus  is 
exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  700  Cc.  of  the  percolate;  by  means  of  a water-bath  distil 
off  the  alcohol  from  the  remainder,  and  evaporate  the  residue  to  a soft  extract ; dissolve 
this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  of  a mixture  of  alcohol  and  water,  using 
the  last-named  proportions,  to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  9 fluidounces  of  a menstruum 
composed  of  alcohol  14J  fluidounces,  water  7 fluidounces,  and  glycerin  2J  fluidounces ; 
subsequent  percolation  is  to  be  continued  with  a mixture  of  alcohol  2 volumes,  water  1 
volume.  The  first  19J  fluidounces  of  percolate  should  be  set  aside  as  a reserve,  and 
the  final  volume  of  finished  product  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

Experience  has  shown  that  the  reduction  in  the  quantity  of  glycerin  and  increase  in 
the  alcoholic  strength,  as  now  directed  in  the  official  menstruum,  and  first  suggested  by 
A.  Robbins  in  1883,  is  of  decided  advantage  in  securing  a more  permanent  fluid  extract. 

The  deep-brown  liquid  has  a decidedly  astringent  taste. 

Uses. — It  is  a good  astringent,  and  well  suited  for  the  treatment  of  mild  cases  of 
diarrhoea  in  children,  after  a sufficient  evacuation  of  the  bowels.  The  dose  is  Gm.  2-8 
(f^ss-ij).  It  may,  like  other  vegetable  astringents,  be  added  to  the  chalk  mixture. 

EXTRACTUM  RUMICIS  FLUIDUM,  77.  S.— Fluid  Extract  of 

Rumex. 

Fluid  extract  of  yellow  dock,  E. ; Extrait  liquide  de  patience  frisee , Fr.  ; Fliissiges  Gnnd- 
wurz-Extrakt,  G. 

Preparation. — Rumex,  in  No.  40  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Diluted  Alcohol  a sufficient 


EXTRA  CTUM  SABIN xE  FL  UID  TJM.—SA NG  UINARIJF  FLUID  UM. 


701 


quantity,  to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  350  Cc.  of  diluted  alcohol,  and 
pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator ; then  add  enough  diluted  alcohol  to  saturate  the 
powder  and  leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  perco- 
lator close  the  lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for 
forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  diluted  alco- 
hol, until  the  rumex  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  800  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and 
evaporate  the  remainder  to  a soft  extract ; dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add 
enough  diluted  alcohol  to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  9 fluidounces  of  menstruum 
and  the  first  191  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve  ; the  final  volume  of  fin- 
ished product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

This  fluid  extract  has  a deep  red-brown  color  and  the  bitter  and  astringent  taste  of  the 
root,  which  is  thoroughly  exhausted  by  the  menstruum. 

Dose,  about  Gm.  4 (1  fluidrachm.) 

EXTRACTUM  SABIN JE  FLUIDUM,  77.  S.— Fluid  Extract  of  Savine. 

Extrait  liquide  de  sabine,  Fr. ; Fliissiges  Sadebaum-ExtraJet,  G. 

Preparation. — Savine,  in  No.  40  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Alcohol  a sufficient  quantity ; 
to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  250  Cc.  of  alcohol,  and  pack  it  firmly  in  a 
cylindrical  percolator ; then  add  enough  alcohol  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a stra- 
tum above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator  close  the  lower  orifice, 
and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow 
the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  alcohol,  until  the  savine  is  exhausted. 
Reserve  the  first  900  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remainder  to  a soft  extract ; 
dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  alcohol  to  make  the  fluid  extract 
measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  6 fluidounces  of  menstruum, 
and  the  first  22  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve ; the  final  volume  of  finished 
product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

The  process  does  not  differ  from  that  of  1880.  The  brown-green  liquid  contains  the 
volatile  oil,  resin,  and  tannin  of  the  drug,  and  is  not  only  well  adapted  for  making 
Ceratum  sabinae,  but  it  offers  likewise  a convenient  way  for  administering  savine. 

Extractum  sabina:  is  made  with  60  per  cent,  alcohol  (F  Pi),  the  tincture  being 
evaporated  to  the  proper  consistence;  it  has  a greenish-brown  color.  The  yield  is  19  or 
20  per  cent. 

Uses. — The  fluid  extract  appears  to  contain  all  the  virtues  of  savine.  Dose,  Gm. 
0.30-1.00  (npv-xv.) 

EXTRACTUM  SANGUINARIA  FLUIDUM,  77.  Fluid  Extract  of 

Sanguinaria. 

Fluid  extract  of  blood-root,  E. ; Extrait  liquide  de  sanguinaire,  Fr.  ; Fliissiges  Blutwurz- 
Extrakt,  G. 

Preparation. — Sanguinaria,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Acetic  Acid,  50  Cc. ; 
Alcohol,  Water,  each  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  alcohol  and  water  in 
the  proportion  of  750  Cc.  of  alcohol  and  250  Cc.  of  water.  Moisten  the  powder  with 
300  Cc.  of  the  mixture,  to  which  the  acetic  acid  had  previously  been  added,  and  let  it 
macerate,  in  a well-covered  vessel,  in  a warm  place,  during  forty-eight  hours.  Then 
pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator,  and  gradually  pour  menstruum  upon  it,  until 
the  sanguinaria  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  850  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate 
the  remainder  to  a soft  extract;  dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough 
alcohol  to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  a mixture  of  45  fluidrachms  of 
alcohol,  15  fluidrachms  of  water,  and  91  fluidrachms  of  acetic  acid,  and  macerate  for 
forty-eight  hours  before  it  is  packed  in  a percolator.  The  menstruum  for  percolation 
consists  of  alcohol  3 volumes,  water  1 volume,  and  the  first  21  fluidounces  of  percolate 
should  be  set  aside  as  reserve  ; the  final  volume  of  finished  product  should  be  made  up  to 
24  fluidounces. 

The  menstruum  for  this  fluid  extract  has  been  greatly  changed  from  that  of  1880, 
and  it  is  thought  that  a more  satisfactory  preparation  will  now  result ; the  addition 
of  an  acid  was  suggested  as  early  as  1880,  and  has  since  been  tried  with  good  effect.  It 


702  EX  TEA  CT  TIM  SA  ESA  PA  R1LLJE  FL.—SA  RSA  PA  RILLJE  FL.  COMPOSITUM. 


is  doubtful,  however,  whether  the  preparation  can  be  kept  entirely  free  from  precipitation 
for  any  great  length  of  time. 

Uses. — Dose,  as  an  emetic,  Gm.  0.60-4  (npx-lx)  ; as  a nauseant,  Gm.  0.20-0.30 
(npiij-v).  In  this  concentrated  form  sanguinaria  should  be  cautiously  used. 

EXTRACTUM  SARSAPARILLA  FLUIDUM,  U.  S.— Fluid  Extract 

of  Sarsaparilla. 

Extractum  sarsse  liquidum , Br. — Liquid  extract  of  sarsaparilla , E.  ; Extrait  liquide  de 
salsepareille , Fr.  ; Flussiges  Sarsaparilla- Extrakt,  G. 

Preparation. — Sarsaparilla,  in  No.  30  powder,  1000  Gm.  ; Alcohol,  Water,  each  a 
sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  300  Cc.  of  alcohol  with  600  Cc.  of  water, 
and,  having  moistened  the  powder  with  400  Cc.  of  the  mixture,  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylin- 
drical percolator ; then  add  enough  of  the  menstruum  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave 
a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator  close  the  lower 
orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then 
allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  menstruum,  until  the  sarsaparilla  is 
exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  800  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remainder  to  a 
soft  extract ; dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  menstruum  to  make 
the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  10  fluidounces  of  menstruum 
(alcohol  1 volume,  water  2 volumes),  and  the  first  191  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside 
as  reserve  ; the  final  volume  of  the  finished  product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

The  omission  of  glycerin  from  the  menstruum  of  1880  is  no  doubt  justified,  but  we 
think  a slight  increase  in  the  alcoholic  strength  (say,  alcohol  2 volumes,  water  3 volumes) 
would  be  of  advantage. 

Mix  Jamaica  sarsaparilla,  in  No.  40  powder,  40  ounces,  with  proof  spirit  40  fluidounces  ; 
macerate  in  a closed  vessel  for  ten  days  ; press  out  20  fluidounces  of  liquor  and  set  this 
aside.  Mix  the  pressed  residue  with  12  pints  (Imperial)  of  water  and  macerate  at  71.1° 
C.  (160°  F.)  for  sixteen  hours,  then  strain  and  press  out  the  liquid;  dissolve  5 av.  ozs 
sugar  in  this,  and  evaporate  in  a water-bath  to  about  18  fluidounces.  Mix  the  two  liquids, 
and  make  up  the  volume  to  40  fluidounces  by  the  addition  of  distilled  water. — Br. 

The  relative  strength  of  the  two  fluid  extracts  is  practically  alike.  The  first  process 
appears  to  be  well  adapted  for  exhausting  the  root  and  preserving  the  fluid  extract,  which 
contains  about  one-third  its  measure  of  alcohol.  The  second  formula  is  an  improvement 
of  that  of  the  former  Br.  P. ; the  exhaustion  of  the  root  is  more  complete,  but  the  long 
exposure  in  the  evaporation  of  240  to  18  fluidounces  could  be  materially  reduced  by  per- 
colating the  powdered  root. 

Uses. — It  probably  contains  whatever  active  elements  belong  to  sarsaparilla,  and 
serves  as  a basis  or  as  a vehicle  for  other  medicines.  Dose,  Gm.  2-4  (n\xxx-lx). 

EXTRACTUM  SARSAPARILLA  FLUIDUM  COMPOSITUM,  TJ.  S.- 

Compound  Fluid  Extract  of  Sarsaparilla. 

Extrait  liquide  de  salsepareille  compose , Fr. ; Zusammengesetztes  flussiges  Sarsaparilla- 
Extrakt,  G. 

Preparation. — Sarsaparilla,  in  No.  30  powder  750  Gm. ; Glycyrrhiza,  in  No.  30 
powder,  120  Gm.  : Sassafras-bark,  in  No.  30  powder,  100  Gm.  ; Mezereum,  in  No.  30  pow- 
der, 30  Gm. ; Glycerin,  100  Cc.  ; Alcohol,  Water,  each  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make 
1000  Cc.  Mix  the  glycerin  with  300  Cc.  of  alcohol  and  600  Cc.  of  water,  and,  having 
moistened  the  mixed  powders  with  400  Cc.  of  the  mixture,  pack  them  firmly  in  a cylindrical 
percolator ; then  add  enough  of  the  menstruum  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a stra- 
tum above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator  close  the  lower  ori- 
fice, and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then 
allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding,  first,  the  remainder  of  the  menstruum, 
and  afterward  a mixture  of  alcohol  and  water,  made  in  the  proportion  of  300  Cc.  of  alco- 
hol to  600  Cc.  of  water,  until  the  powder  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  800  Cc.  of  the 
percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remainder  to  a soft  extract;  dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  por- 
tion, and  add  enough  of  a mixture  of  alcohol  and  water,  using  the  last-named  proportions, 
to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  mixed  ground  drugs  should  be  moistened  with  about  10  fluidounces 
of  a menstruum  composed  of  alcohol  71  fluidounces,  water  141  fluidounces,  and  glycerin 


EXT R ACTUM  SCILLJE  FLUIDUM.- SCOPARII  FLU  ID  UAL 


703 


21  fluidounces,  subsequent  percolation  being  continued  with  a mixture  of  alcohol  1 vol- 
ume, water  2 volumes.  The  first  19?  fluidounces  of  percolate  should  be  set  aside  as 
reserve,  and  the  final  volume  of  finished  product  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

The  preparation  is  fairly  permanent.  The  frequent  use  which  is  made  of  the  above 
combination  of  drugs  probably  renders  such  a fluid  extract  desirable,  though  it  seems  to 
be  unnecessary,  since  the  introduction  of  concentrated  preparations  of  licorice-root  and 
mezereum  affords  the  opportunity  of  giving  these  and  sarsaparilla  in  any  proportion  that 
may  be  desired. 

Uses. — The  only  active  ingredient  in  this  preparation  besides  the  sarsaparilla  is  meze- 
reum. It  would  appear  to  be  a less  eligible  medicine  than  the  compound  decoction  of 
sarsaparilla,  which  contains  also  guaiacum,  and  whose  efficiency  is  established.  Dose ; 
Gm.  2-4  (Xxxx-f3j). 

EXTRACTUM  SCULLY  FLUIDUM,  U.  S.— Fluid  Extract  of  Squill. 

Extrait  liquide  de  scille , Fr. ; Fliissiges  Meerzwiebel-Extrakt,  G. 

Preparation. — Squill,  in  No.  20  powder,  1000  Gm.  ; Alcohol,  Water,  each,  a suffi- 
cient quantity,  to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  750  Cc.  of  alcohol  with  250  Cc.  of  water,  and, 
having  moistened  the  powder  with  200  Cc.  of  the  mixture,  pack  it  in  a cylindrical  perco- 
lator, then  add  enough  menstruum  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a stratum  above  it. 
When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator  close  the  lower  orifice,  and,  having 
closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow  the  percola- 
tion to  proceed,  gradually  adding  menstruum,  using  the  same  proportions  of  alcohol  and 
water  as  before,  until  the  squill  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  750  Cc.  of  the  percolate, 
and  evaporate  the  remainder  to  a soft  extract ; dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and 
add  enough  alcohol  to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  5 fluidounces  of  menstruum 
(alcohol  3 volumes,  water  1 volume),  and  the  first  18£  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside 
as  reserve.  The  final  volume  of  finished  product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

Squill  yields  with  cold  water  from  55  to  65  per  cent.,  and  with  diluted  alcohol  from  35 
to  45  or  50  per  cent.,  of  extract.  Alcohol,  which  does  not  dissolve  the  gummy  matter, 
yields  much  less,  but  appears  to  be  a solvent  for  all  the  medicinally-valuable  principles. 
The  fluid  extract  is  of  a dark  brown-red  color,  and  has  the  bitter  and  acrid  taste  of  the  drug. 

The  menstruum  will  yield  a fluid  extract  equally  as  satisfactory  as  alcohol  alone 
(directed  in  1880),  and  is  preferable  to  diluted  alcohol,  because  but  very  little  gummy 
matter,  if  any,  enters  into  solution. 

Extractum  scille,  F.  Cod.,  is  made  with  alcohol  sp.  gr.  0.914.  It  is  brown-yellow 
and  soluble  in  water  and  diluted  alcohol. 

Uses. — This  preparation  is  a concentrated  and  convenient  form  of  squill.  It  is 
especially  adapted  for  use  as  a diuretic.  Dose,  Gm.  0.20-0.30  (^iij-v),  largely  diluted. 

EXTRACTUM  SCOPARII  FLUIDUM,  V.  S.- Fluid  Extract  of 

SCOPARIUS. 

Fluid  extract  of  broom , E.  ; Extrait  liquide  de  genet  d balais,  Fr.  ; Fliissiges  Besengin- 
ster-Exlrakt,  G. 

Preparation. — Scoparius,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Diluted  Alcohol,  a sufficient 
quantity,  to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  350  Cc.  of  diluted  alcohol  and 
pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator ; then  add  enough  menstruum  to  saturate  the 
powder  and  leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  per- 
colator close  the  lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for 
forty -eight  hours.  Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  menstruum, 
until  the  scoparius  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  850  Cc.  of  the  percolate  ; by  means 
of  a water-bath,  distil  off  the  alcohol  from  the  remainder,  and  evaporate  the  residue  to  a 
soft  extract;  dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  menstruum  to  make 
the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  9 fluidounces  of  menstruum 
(diluted  alcohol),  and  the  first  21  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve.  The 
final  volume  of  finished  product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

This  fluid  extract  has  a dark-olive  color,  characteristic  odor,  and  bitter  taste. 

Uses. — It  may  be  doubted  whether  the  fluid  extract  has  a diuretic  operation  equal  to 
that  of  the  decoction  of  broom.  But  it  may  be  used  to  reinforce  the  latter.  Dose,  Gm. 
1 to  4 (tt^xv  to  f^j). 


704 


EXTRACTUM  SCUTELLARIAE  FL U1D UM. — SENEGAE  FLUID UM. 


EXTRACTUM  SCUTELLARIAE  FLUIDUM,  77.  S.— Fluid  Extract  op 

Scutellaria. 

Fluid  extract  of  skull-cap , E. ; Extrait  liquide  de  scutellaire , Fr. ; Flussiges  Helmkraut - 
Extrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Scutellaria,  in  No.  40  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Diluted  Alcohol  a sufficient 
quantity,  to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  350  Cc.  of  the  menstruum,  and 
pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator ; then  add  enough  of  the  menstruum  to  saturate 
the  powder  and  leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  per- 
colator, close  the  lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for 
forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  menstruum 
until  the  Scutellaria  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  800  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evap- 
orate the  remainder  to  a soft  extract ; dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add 
enough  menstruum  to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  9 fluidounces  of  menstruum, 
and  the  first  19^  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve  ; the  final  volume  of  finished 
product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

The  Pharmacopoeia  has  increased  the  alcoholic  strength  of  the  menstruum  slightly 
above  that  of  1880,  but  we  think  that  a change  to  alcohol  2 volumes  and  water  1 volume 
would  have  been  still  better.  As  pointed  out  by  A.  Robbins  (1883),  diluted  alcohol  does 
not  yield  a permanent  preparation. 

The  fluid  extract  will  have  a green-brown  color. 

Uses. — Whatever  medicinal  virtues  (if  any)  belong  to  Scutellaria  may  be  exhibited 
by  this  preparation  of  it.  The  dose  is  stated  at  Gm.  4-8  (fgj-ij). 

EXTRACTUM  SENEGiE  FLUIDUM,  77.  S.— Fluid  Extract  of 

Senega. 

Extrait  liquide  de  polygale  de  Virginie , Fr. ; Flussiges  Sen  eg  a- Extrakt,  G. 

Preparation. — Senega,  in  No.  40  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Ammonia-water  50  Cc.  ; Alco- 
hol, Water,  each  a sufficient  quantity;  to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  ammonia-water  with 
750  Cc.  of  alcohol  and  200  Cc.  of  water,  and,  having  moistened  the  powder  with  450  Cc. 
of  the  mixture,  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator  ; then  add  enough  menstruum 
to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop 
from  the  percolator,  close  the  lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator, 
macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding, 
first,  the  remainder  of  the  menstruum,  and  then  a mixture  of  alcohol  and  water,  made  in 
the  proportion  of  750  Cc.  of  alcohol  to  250  Cc.  of  water,  until  the  senega  is  exhausted: 
Reserve  the  first  850  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remainder  to  a soft  extract ; 
dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  menstruum  to  make  the  fluid  extract 
measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  101  fluidounces  of  a men- 
struum composed  of  alcohol  18  fluidounces,  water  4f  fluidounces,  and  ammonia-water  1? 
fluidounces,  subsequent  percolation  to  be  continued  with  a mixture  of  alcohol  3 volumes, 
water  1 volume.  The  first  21  fluidounces  of  percolate  should  be  set  aside  as  reserve, 
and  the  final  volume  of  finished  product  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

Water  is  a better  solvent  for  senegin  than  a strongly  alcoholic  menstruum,  but  it  has 
also  the  disadvantage  of  dissolving  a considerable  proportion  of  various  pectin  com- 
pounds, which  are  apt  after  some  time  to  convert  the  liquid  into  a gelatinous  mass. 

We  cannot  see  any  advantage  in  the  use  of  so  strongly  alcoholic  a menstruum  as  that 
recommended  by  the  Pharmacopoeia;  experience  has  shown  that  a mixture  of  alcohol  2 
volumes,  water  1 volume,  thoroughly  exhausts  the  drug,  and  that  with  the  present 
increase  of  ammonia-water  to  5 per  cent,  by  volume  the  preparation  keeps  very  well. 
The  fluid  extract  is  of  a dark-brown  color,  and  possesses  the  characteristic  odor  and  acrid 
taste  of  the  root. 

Extractum  seneg^e. — Extract  of  senega,  E. ; Extrait  de  polygale,  Extrait  de  seneca, 
Fr. ; Senegaextrakt,  G. — This  has  been  dismissed  from  the  U.  S.  P.  and  P.  G.,  which 
authorities  prepared  it  with  diluted  alcohol,  obtaining  about  30  per  cent,  of  extract.  The 
French  Codex  orders  alcohol  sp.  gr.  0.914,  which  yields  from  16  to  20  per  cent,  of  extract. 
It  may  be  prepared  extemporaneously  by  evaporating  the  fluid  extract  to  the  proper 
consistence. 


EXTRACT UM  SENNLE  FLUIDUM.— SPIGELIA  FLUIDUM. 


705 


Uses. — The  special  object  of  this  preparation  is  apparently  to  supersede  the  decoc- 
tion, all  of  whose  virtues  it  possesses.  Dose,  Gm.  0.30-1.30  (n^v-xx). 

EXTRACTUM  SENN-ZE  FLUIDUM,  77.  S. — Fluid  Extract  of  Senna. 

Extrait  liquide  de  sene,  Fr.  ; Fliissiges  Senna- Extrakt,  G. 

Preparation. — Senna,  in  No.  30  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Diluted  Alcohol,  a sufficient 
quantity ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  400  Cc.  of  the  menstruum,  pack 
it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator ; then  add  enough  of  the  menstruum  to  saturate  the 
powder  and  leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  perco- 
lator close  the  lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for 
forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  menstruum, 
until  the  senna  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  800  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate 
the  remainder  to  a soft  extract ; dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough 
menstruum  to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  10  fluidounces  of  menstruum, 
and  the  first  19J  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve;  the  final  volume  of  fin- 
ished product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

The  fluid  extract  of  1850  was  a thick  syrup  flavored  with  oil  of  fennel  and  Hoffmann’s 
anodyne,  the  latter  added  to  prevent  fermentation.  In  1860  these  additions  were  dropped, 
and  in  1870  glycerin  was  substituted  for  sugar.  Properly  prepared,  these  fluid  extracts 
kept  well,  although  a deposit  took  place,  but  they  were  inconveniently  thick.  The  pres- 
ent formula  yields  a thinner  fluid  extract,  which  separates  insoluble  inert  matter  on  the 
sides  and  bottom  of  the  bottle.  From  the  observation  of  A.  Robbins  (1883),  it  appears 
that  the  addition  of  glycerin  to  the  menstruum  causes  the  precipitate  to  collect  at  the 
bottom.  Freed  from  the  precipitate,  the  fluid  extract  is  of  a dark-brown  color  and  has 
the  odor  and  taste  of  senna-leaves. 

Uses. — This  fluid  extract  may  be  prescribed  as  a laxative  in  doses  of  Gm.  4 (fgj), 
and  as  a purgative  in  doses  of  Gm.  8 (fl^ij).  It  is  apt  to  gripe  severely  without  the 
addition  of  a carminative,  such  as  oil  of  anise  or  oil  of  peppermint. 

EXTRACTUM  SERPENT ARLE  FLUIDUM,  77.  S.— Fluid  Extract  of 

Serpentaria. 

Extrait  liquide  de  serpentaire,  Fr. ; Fliissiges  Schlangenwurzel- Extrakt,  G. 

Preparation. — Serpentaria,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Alcohol,  Water,  each  a 
sufficient  quantity;  to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  800  Cc.  of  alcohol  with  200  Cc.  of  water, 
and,  having  moistened  the  powder  with  300  Cc.  of  the  mixture,  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylin- 
drical percolator ; then  add  enough  of  the  menstruum  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave 
a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator  close  the  lower 
orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then 
allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  menstruum,  until  the  serpentaria  is 
exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  900  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remainder  to  a 
soft  extract ; dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  menstruum  to  make 
the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  71  fluidounces  of  menstruum, 
alcohol  4 volumes,  water  1 volume,  and  the  first  22  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside  as 
reserve.  The  final  volume  of  finished  product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

There  is  scarcely  any  difference  in  the  results  obtained  with  this  and  with  the  formula 
of  1880.  The  virtues  of  serpentaria  are  well  exhausted  and  properly  preserved  by  this 
process.  The  fluid  extract  has  a red-brown  color  and  the  peculiar  odor  and  bitter  taste 
of  the  drug. 

Uses. — It  is  a convenient  and  efficient  substitute  for  the  infusion  of  serpentaria. 
Dose,  Gm.  2 (f^ss).  It  is  said  to  be  an  excellent  application  to  parts  poisoned  by  rhus 
toxicodendron. 

EXTRACTUM  SPIGELIA  FLUIDUM,  77.  S.— Fluid  Extract  of 

Spigelia. 

Extrait  liquide  de  spigelie,  Fr.  ; Fliissiges  Spigelien- Extrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Spigelia,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Diluted  Alcohol  a sufficient 
quantity,  to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  300  Cc.  of  diluted  alcohol  and 
pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator ; then  add  enough  diluted  alcohol  to  saturate  the 


706 


EXTR  ACTUM  STILLING  I JS  FL  UID  UM. — STRAMONII  SE  MINIS. 


powder  and  leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  perco- 
lator close  the  lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for 
forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  diluted 
alcohol,  until  the  spigelia  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  850  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and 
evaporate  the  remainder  to  a soft  extract ; dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add 
enough  diluted  alcohol  to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  7J  fluidounces  of  menstruum 
and  the  first  21  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve ; the  final  volume  of  finished 
product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

Originally,  the  fluid  extract  was  saccharine,  and  in  1870  the  sugar  was  replaced  bv 
glycerin.  It  was  found,  however,  that  it  will  keep  unaltered  in  the  form  of  a concen- 
trated tincture,  as  by  the  present  formula.  It  is  a dark-brown  liquid. 

Extractum  spigelia  et  senn^e  fluidum. — Fluid  extract  of  spigelia  and  senna,  E. ; 
Extrait  liquide  de  spigelie  et  sene,  Fr. ; Fliissiges  Spigelien-  und  Senna-Extrakt,  G. — 
After  1860  this  preparation  was  made  by  mixing  fluid  extract  of  spigelia  10  fluidounces 
with  fluid  extract  of  senna  6 fluidounces  and  oils  of  caraway  and  of  anise  each  20 
minims.  A more  elegant  and  satisfactory  preparation,  however,  is  obtained,  according  to 
Mr.  Alonzo  Robbins  (1883),  by  preparing  it  from  the  drugs,  as  originally  suggested  by 
Procter  (1848),  omitting  the  alkali ; the  proportions  are — spigelia  60  parts  (15  oz.  av.), 
senna  30  parts  (7?  oz.  av.),  anise  and  caraway  each  5 parts  (1|  oz.  av.)  ; the  menstruum 
is  diluted  alcohol,  and  the  yield  is  100  parts  by  measure  (24  fluidounces). 

Uses. — It  possesses  fully  the  virtues  of  spigelia,  and  may  be  given  in  the  dose  of 
Gm.  4 (f^i)  and  upward. 

Fluid  extract  of  spigelia  and  senna  represents  in  a concentrated  form  the  well-tried 
and  popular  remedy  “ worm  tea.”  It  should  be  prescribed  in  doses  of  Gm.  4 (f^i),  at 
intervals  of  an  hour,  until  it  begins  to  purge. 

EXTRACTUM  STILLINGIA  FLUIDUM,  IT.'#.— Fluid  Extract  op 

Stillingia. 

Extrait  liquide  de  stillingie , Fr. ; Fliissiges  Stillingien- Extract , G. 

Preparation. — Stillingia,  in  No.  40  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Diluted  Alcohol  a sufficient 
quantity,  to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  300  Cc.  of  diluted  alcohol,  and 
pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator ; then  add  enough  diluted  alcohol  to  saturate 
the  powder  and  leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the 
percolator  close  the  lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate 
for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  diluted 
alcohol,  until  the  stillingia  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  850  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and 
evaporate  the  remainder  to  a soft  extract ; dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add 
enough  diluted  alcohol  to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  7|  fluidounces  of  menstruum, 
and  the  first  21  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve ; the  final  volume  of  fin- 
ished product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

Fluid  extract  of  stillingia  will  sometimes  become  gelatinous  on  standing,  which  diffi- 
culty may  be  overcome  by  the  addition  of  sugar  (about  10  or  12  per  cent,  of  the  weight 
of  drug  used)  ; a somewhat  stronger  alcoholic  menstruum  (alcohol  3 volumes,  water  1 
volume)  also  seems  to  improve  the  preparation  materially.  It  is  of  a dark  red-brown 
color  and  has  the  bitterish,  pungent  taste  of  the  root. 

Uses. — It  may  be  employed  in  various  chronic  diseases,  and  especially  scrofula,  dis- 
eases of  the  skin,  syphilis,  etc.  Dose , Gm.  2 (fgss). 

EXTRACTUM  STRAMONII  SEMINIS,  U.  S.— Extract  of  Stramon- 
ium-seed. 

Extractum  stramonii , U.  S.  1880  ; Br. — Extract  of  stramonium , E. ; Extrait  de  semences 
de  stramoine , Fr. ; Stechapfelsamen-Extrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Stramonium-seed,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Diluted  Alcohol  a 
sufficient  quantity.  Moisten  the  powder  with  300  Gm.  of  diluted  alcohol,  and  pack  it 
firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator ; then  add  enough  diluted  alcohol  to  saturate  the  powder 
and  leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator  close 
the  lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight 
hours.  Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  diluted  alcohol,  until 


EXTE ACTUM  S TEA 310 Nil  SE MINIS  FLUID U3I.-TAEAXA CL 


707 


3000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained  or  the  stramonium-seed  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the 
first  900  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  evaporate  the  remainder,  at  a temperature  not  exceeding 
50°  C.  (122°  F.),  to  100  Cc.,  mix  the  residue  with  the  reserved  portion  in  a porcelain 
capsule,  and  by  means  of  a water-bath  evaporate,  at  or  below  the  before-mentioned  tem- 
perature, to  a pilular  consistence. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  powdered  seed  should  be  moistened  with  about  7?  fluidounces  of 
menstruum.  About  75  fluidounces  of  percolate  will  be  found  sufficient  to  eihaust  the 
drug,  of  which  the  first  22  fluidounces  should  be  set  aside  as  reserve ; the  remainder 
should  be  evaporated  to  2?  fluidounces  before  it  is  mixed  with  the  reserve  portion  for 
final  evaporation. 

The  presence  of  about  25  per  cent,  of  fixed  oil  in  the  seed  renders  the  preparation  of 
this  extract  troublesome  in  spite  of  the  diluted  alcohol ; we  have  found  that  the  previous 
removal  of  the  oil  by  treatment  with  benzin  very  materially  improves  the  process,  and 
also  facilitates  the  reduction  of  the  seed  to  No.  60  powder  as  directed. 

According  to  the  British  Pharmacopoeia,  the  coarsely-powdered  seeds  are  first  exhausted 
with  washed  ether  for  removing  the  fixed  oil ; the  residue  is  then  percolated  with  proof 
spirit  sp.  gr.  0.920,  the  tincture  distilled  to  recover  the  alcohol,  and  finally  evaporated  to 
the  proper  consistence.  The  yield  is  about  12J  per  cent.  The  extract  of  the  French 
Codex  is  made  by  digestion  with  alcohol  spec.  grav.  0.914 ; after  distilling  and  evaporating 
the  tincture  the  residue  is  dissolved  in  four  times  its  weight  of  distilled  water,  filtered  to 
remove  oily  and  resinous  matter,  and  the  filtrate  evaporated  to  the  proper  consistence. 
The  yield  is  about  7 per  cent. 

Extractum  stramonii  foliorum,  U.  S.  P.  1870,  was  prepared  from  the  dry  leaves 
with  alcohol  and  diluted  alcohol ; the  yield  is  about  20  per  cent.  Extractum  stra- 
monii, P.  G.  1872,  was  the  inspissated  juice  of  the  fresh  plant;  yield,  3-3J  per  cent. 

Dose. — Its  commencing  dose  should  not  exceed  Gm.  0.016  (gr.  i). 

EXTRACTUM  STRAMONII  SEMINIS  FLUIDUM,  V.  S.— Fluid 
Extract  of  Stramonium-seed. 

Extractum  stramonii  fluidum,  U.  S.  1880. — Fluid  extract  of  stramonium , E.  ; Extrait 
liquide  de  semences  de  stramoine , Fr.  ; Flussiges  Stechapfelsamen-Extrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Stramonium-seed,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Alcohol,  Water, 
each  a sufficient  quantity,  to  make  100  Ccm.  (24  fluidounces).  Mix  750  Cc.  of  alcohol 
with  250  Cc.  of  water,  and,  having  moistened  the  powder  with  200  Cc.  of  the  mixture, 
pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator;  then  add  enough  of  the  menstruum  to  saturate 
the  powder  and  leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the 
percolator  close  the  lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate 
for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  men- 
struum, until  the  strammonium-seea  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  900  Cc.  of  the  per- 
colate, and  evaporate  the  remainder,  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  50°  C.  (122°  F.), 
to  a soft  extract:  dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  menstruum  to 
make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  powdered  seed  should  be  moistened  with  about  5 fluidounces  of 
menstruum,  and  the  first  22  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve;  the  final  vol- 
ume of  the  finished  product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

The  fixed  oil  in  strammonium-seed  being  without  medicinal  virtue,  we  think  its  re- 
moval with  benzin,  as  already  suggested  in  the  preceding  article,  would  prove  advan- 
tageous, and  in  that  case  a weaker  alcoholic  menstruum  (alcohol  2 volumes  and  water 
1 volume,  or  diluted  alcohol)  would  suffice  to  exhaust  the  drug.  The  fluid  extract  is  of 
a brown  color. 

Dose. — The  commencing  dose  should  not  exceed  Gm.  0.06-0.12  (Tflj-ij). 

EXTRACTUM  TARAXACI,  U.  S.,  Br JP . G.— Extract  of  Taraxacum. 

Extract  of  dandelion,  E.  : Extrait  de  pissenlit  (gle  dent  de  lion'),  Fr. ; Lbwenzahn- Extrakt , 
G. ; Estratto  di  tarassaco,  It. 

Preparation.— Fresh  Taraxacum,  gathered  in  autumn,  a convenient  quantity; 
Water  a sufficient  quantity.  Slice  the  taraxacum  and  bruise  it  in  a stone  mortar,  sprink- 
ling on  it  a little  water,  until  reduced  to  a pulp  ; then  express  and  strain  the  juice,  and 
evaporate  it  in  a vacuum-apparatus  or  in  a shallow  porcelain  dish,  by  means  of  a water- 
bath,  to  a pilular  consistence. — U.  S. 

Take  of  fresh  dandelion-root  4 pounds.  Crush  the  root,  press  out  the  juice,  and  allow 


708 


EXTRACTUM  TARAXACI  FLUIDUM.— TRITICI  FLUIDUM. 


it  to  deposit;  heat  the  clear  liquor  to  212°  F.,  and  maintain  the  temperature  for  ten  min- 
utes ; then  strain,  and  evaporate  by  a water-bath,  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  160° 
F.,  until  the  extract  has  acquired  a suitable  consistence  for  forming  pills. — Br. 

The  juice  of  taraxacum  contains  albumen,  which  is  very  properly  removed  in  the  sec- 
ond process  by  heating  the  juice  for  a short  time  to  the  boiling-point  and  straining  from 
the  coagulum.  Collected  in  the  autumn,  the  fresh  root  yields  8 to  10  per  cent,  of  extract ; 
the  fresh  spring  root,  with  the  leaves,  yields  a smaller  amount,  varying  between  and  6 
per  cent.,  and,  after  drying  by  exhaustion  with  cold  water,  from  25  to  40  per  cent.  This 
is  the  extract  recognized  by  the  German  Pharmacopoeia,  that  of  the  French  Codex  being 
made  from  the  fresh  leaves,  with  a yield  of  2J  to  3 per  cent.  The  extract  is  of  a brown 
color,  and  should  yield  a nearly  clear  solution  with  water. 

Uses.  — Owing  to  its  liability  to  spoil,  this  extract  is  not  an  eligible  preparation.  It 
may  be  prescribed  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.60  (gr.  x)  and  upward,  dissolved  in  some  aromatic 
water  and  taken  after  meals. 

EXTRACTUM  TARAXACI  FLUIDUM,  U.  S.— Fluid  Extract  of 

Taraxacum. 

j Extraction  taraxnci  liquidum. Br. — Liquid  extract  of  dandelion , E. ; Extrait  de  liquide 
de  pissenlit,  Fr. ; Fliissiges  Lowenzahn- Extra kt,  G. 

Preparation. — Taraxacum,  in  No.  30  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Diluted  Alcohol,  a suf- 
ficient quantity  to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  300  Cc.  of  the  mixture, 
pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator  ; then  add  enough  of  the  menstruum  to  saturate 
the  powder  and  leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  per- 
colator close  the  lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for 
forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  menstruum, 
until  the  taraxacum  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  850  Cc.  of  the  percolate ; by  means 
of  a water-bath  distil  off  the  alcohol  from  the  remainder,  and  evaporate  the  residue  to  a 
soft  extract;  dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  menstruum  to  make 
the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  fluidounces  of  menstruum, 
and  the  first  21  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve ; the  final  volume  of  finished 
product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

The  present  fluid  extract  is  similar  to  that  of  1860  and  1880,  except  that  it  contains 
a stronger  alcohol ; that  of  1870  contained  one-fourth  its  measure  of  glycerin.  On  keep- 
ing, these  preparations  deposit  a slight  precipitate  of  inert  matter.  Prepared  from  good 
dandelion-root  the  fluid  extract  is  an  efficient  preparation,  of  a reddish-brown  color  and 
bitterish-sweet  taste.  We  have  seen  commercial  fluid  extracts  bearing  this  name  which, 
to  judge  from  their  appearance  and  their  more  decided  bitterness,  were  evidently  made 
from  chicory-root. 

Extr.  taraxaci  LIQUIDUM,  Br.,  contains  half  its  measure  of  proof  spirit. 

Uses. — It  is  a more  permanent  preparation  than  the  decoction  of  dandelion,  and  at 
the  same  time  quite  as  operative.  Lose,  Gm.  4 (fgj),  largely  diluted. 

EXTRACTUM  TRITICI  FLUIDUM,  U.  $.— Fluid  Extract  of  Triticum. 

Fluid  extract  of  couch-grass,  E.  ; Extrait  liquide  de  chiendent,  Fr.  ; Fliissiges  Quecken- 
Extrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Triticum,  finely  cut,  1000  Gm. ; Alcohol,  Water,  each  a sufficient 
quantity,  to  make  1000  Cc.  Pack  the  triticum  in  a cylindrical  percolator,  pour  boiling 
water  upon  it  and  allow  percolation  to  proceed,  supplying  boiling  water  as  required,  until 
the  triticum  is  exhausted.  Evaporate  the  percolate  to  750  Cc.,  and,  having  added  to  it 
250  Cc.  of  alcohol,  mix  well  and  set  it  aside  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  filter  the  liquid, 
and  add  to  the  filtrate  enough  of  a mixture  composed  of  3 volumes  of  water  and  1 
volume  of  alcohol  to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  finely-cut  couch-grass  should  be  exhausted  bv  percolation  with  boiling 
water,  and  the  infusion  evaporated  to  18  fluidounces  ; after  addition  of  6 fluidounces  of 
alcohol  the  mixture  is  set  aside  for  forty-eight  hours,  filtered,  and  to  the  filtrate  enough 
of  a menstruum,  composed  of  alcohol  1 volume  and  water  3 volumes,  added  to  bring  the 
final  volume  of  the  finished  product  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

The  manipulation  for  preparing  this  fluid  extract  will  be  successful  only  if  suitable 
provision  be  made  to  let  the  liquid  pass  from  the  percolator  in  drops,  the  drug  being  too 
coarse  and  unyielding  to  permit  its  packing  like  most  of  the  other  powders.  We  consider 


EXTRACTUM  UVJE  URSI.—  UVJE  URSI  FLUIDUM. 


709 


digestion  preferable  to  percolation,  since  the  drug  is  thus  easily  exhausted,  and  by  short- 
ening the  process  fermentation  of  the  strongly  saccharine  liquid  is  prevented.  For  the 
reason  stated,  the  liquid  should  be  rapidly  concentrated.  The  fluid  extract  is  of  a brown 
color  and  sweet  taste. 

Extractum  graminis,  P.  G.  1882. — Couch-grass  1 part,  boiling  water  5 parts;  di- 
gest for  6 hours,  strain,  boil  down  to  3 parts,  filter,  and  evaporate  .to  the  proper  con- 
sistence. The  yield  varies  between  25  and  35  per  cent.  The  French  Codex  directs 
exhaustion  with  cold  water,  boiling,  straining,  and  evaporating ; the  yield  is  stated  to  be 
9 or  10  per  cent. 

Uses. — The  fluid  extract  diluted  with  water  or  added  to  some  emollient  infusion,  such 
as  that  of  flaxseed  or  of  barley,  may  be  freely  used  in  irritations  of  the  genito-urinary 
tract,  of  the  intestinal  canal,  of  the  bronchia,  etc.  A decoction  of  the  fresh  plant  is  to 
be  preferred. 

EXTRACTUM  UV.E  URSI,  77.  S.— Extract  of  Uva  Ursi. 

Extrait  de  busserole , Fr.  ; Bdrentraubenbldtter-Extrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Uva  Ursi,  in  No.  30  powder,  1000  6m. ; Alcohol,  Water,  each  a 
sufficient  quantity.  Mix  200  Cc.  of  alcohol  with  500  Cc.  of  water,  and,  having  moist- 
ened the  powder  with  400  Cc.  of  the  mixture,  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator ; 
then  add  enough  menstruum  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a stratum  above  it.  When 
the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow 
the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  menstruum,  using  the  same  proportions  of 
alcohol  and  water  as  before,  until  the  uva  ursi  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  900  Cc. 
of  the  percolate  ; evaporate  the  remainder,  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  50°  C.  (122° 
F.),  to  100  Cc.  Mix  this  with  the  reserved  portion,  and  evaporate,  at  or  below  the 
before-mentioned  temperature,  in  a porcelain  capsule,  on  a water-bath,  to  a pilular  con- 
sistence.— U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  10  fluidounces  of  menstruum, 
composed  of  alcohol  2 volumes,  water  5 volumes,  and  the  first  22  fluidounces  of  percolate 
set  aside  as  reserve;  the  remainder  of  the  percolate  should  be  evaporated  to  21  fluid- 
ounces  before  it  is  mixed  with  the  reserve  portion  for  final  evaporation. 

Bose,  Gm.  0.6  (gr.  x). 

EXTRACTUM  UVJE  URSI  FLUIDUM,  77.  S.— Fluid  Extract  of 

Uva  Ursi. 

Extrait  liquide  de  busserole,  F. ; Fliissiges  Bdrentraubenbldtter-Extrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Uva  Ursi,  in  No.  30  powder,  1000  Gm.;  Glycerin,  300  Cc. ; Alco- 
hol, Water,  each  a sufficient  quantity,  to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  glycerin  with  200  Cc. 
of  alcohol  and  500  Cc.  of  water,  and,  having  moistened  the  powder  with  400  Cc.  of  the 
mixture,  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator ; then  add  enough  menstruum  to  satu- 
rate the  powder  and  leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the 
percolator  close  the  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty- 
eight  hours.  Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding,  first,  the  remainder 
of  the  menstruum,  and  afterward  a mixture  of  alcohol  and  water,  made  in  the  propor- 
tion of  200  Cc.  of  alcohol  to  500  Cc.  of  water,  until  the  uva  ursi  is  exhausted.  Reserve 
the  first  900  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remainder  to  a soft  extract ; dissolve 
this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  of  the  mixture  of  alcohol  and  water  to  make 
the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  10  fluidounces  of  the  mixture 
composed  of  alcohol  4f  fluidounces,  water  12  fluidounces,  and  glycerin  7i  fluidounces, 
subsequent  percolation  to  be  continued  with  a menstruum  of  alcohol  2 volumes,  water  5 
volumes  ; the  first  22  fluidounces  of  percolate  should  be  set  aside  as  reserve,  and  the  final 
volume  of  finished  product  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

The  increase  of  glycerin  to  nearly  four  times  the  quantity  directed  in  1880  appears  to 
us  unnecessary  ; in  fact,  glycerin  may  be  omitted  entirely,  since  experience  has  shown 
that  diluted  alcohol  completely  exhausts  the  drug  and  yields  a fluid  extract  which  keeps 
well.  We  should  prefer  the  latter  menstruum  both  for  this  and  the  preceding  prepara- 
tion. The  fluid  extract  is  of  a dark-brown  color  and  possesses  a bitter  astringent  taste. 

Uses. — It  probably  possesses  all  the  virtues  of  the  plant.  Like  nearly  all  medicines 
intended  to  act  upon  the  urinary  organs,  it  should  be  given  largely  diluted.  Bose,  Gm. 
4 (f3j)- 


710  EXTRACTUM  VALERIANAE  FLUIDUM.— VIBURNI  OPULI  FLUIDUM. 


EXTRAOTUM  VALERIANAE  FLUIDUM,  IT.  S.— Fluid  Extract  op 

Valerian. 

Extrait  liquide  de  valeriane , Fr. ; Flussiges  Baldrian-E xtrakt,  G. 

Preparation.— Valerian,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Alcohol,  Water,  each  a suf- 
ficient quantity,  to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  750  Cc.  of  alcohol  with  250  Cc.  of  water,  and, 
having  moistened  the  powder  with  300  Cc.  of  the  mixture,  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical 
percolator ; then  add  enough  of  the  menstruum  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a 
stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator  close  the  lower 
orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then 
allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  menstruum,  until  the  valerian  is 
exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  850  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remainder  to  a 
soft  extract ; dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  menstruum  to  make 
the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — V S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  71  fluidounces  of  menstruum, 
alcohol  3 volumes,  water  1 volume,  and  the  first  21  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside  as 
reserve ; the  final  volume  of  the  finished  product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

The  present  menstruum  does  not  differ  much  from  that  of  1880,  but  a mixture  of 
alcohol,  7 volumes,  and  water  3 volumes,  would  correspond  still  more  closely,  and  such  a 
menstruum  has  been  found  to  yield  excellent  results  ; a stronger  alcoholic  mixture  is 
quite  unnecessary.  The  fluid  extract  is  of  a deep  red-brown  color,  and  has  the  charac- 
teristic odor  and  taste  of  valerian.  Little  loss  of  oil  will  occur  if  proper  care  is  observed 
in  the  percolation  and  evaporation. 

Extractum  Valerianae  has  been  dismissed  from  most  pharmacopoeias.  The  French 
Codex  directs  it  to  be  made  with  alcohol  sp.  gr.  0.914  ; the  yield  is  19  or  20  per  cent.  It 
may  be  readily  prepared  by  concentrating  the  fluid  extract  at  the  heat  of  a water-bath. 

Uses. — An  efficient  preparation  of  this  valuable  drug.  Dose , Gm.  4 (fgj). 

EXTRACTUM  VERATRI  VIRIDIS  FLUIDUM,  U.  8.— Fluid  Extract 

of  Veratrum  Viride. 

Fluid  extract  of  American  veratrum , E. ; Extrait  de  liquide  de  veratre  americain , Fr. ; 
Flussiges  Griingermer-Extrakt,  G. 

Preparation. — Veratrum  Viride,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm.  ; Alcohol,  a sufficient 
quantity,  to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  300  Cc.  of  alcohol,  and  pack  it 
firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator  ; then  add  enough  alcohol  to  saturate  the  powder  and 
leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator  close  the 
lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours 
Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  alcohol,  until  the  veratrum 
viride  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  900  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the 
remainder  to  a soft  extract ; dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  alco- 
hol to  make  the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  8. 

25  av.  ozs.  .of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  fluidounces  of  menstruum, 
and  the  first  22  fluidounces  set  aside  as  reserve  ; the  final  volume  of  finished  product 
should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

The  resins  and  alkaloids  are  readily  taken  up  and  held  in  solution  by  the  menstruum 
directed,  and  the  fluid  extract  is  therefore  two  and  a half  times  as  strong  as  the  tincture 
of  the  same  drug. 

Uses. — This  preparation  is  a very  potent  depresser  of  the  heart’s  action.  Dose , 
Gm.  0.05-0.15  (np  j-iij). 

EXTRACTUM  VIBURNI  OPULI  FLUIDUM,  TJ.  S.— Fluid  Extract  of 

Viburnum  Opulus. 

Fluid  extract  of  cramp-bark , E. 

Preparation. — Viburnum  Opulus,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm.;  Water,  each,  a 
sufficient  quantity,  to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  750  Cc.  of  alcohol  with  250  Cc.  of  water, 
and,  having  moistened  the  powder  with  300  Cc.  of  the  mixture,  pack  it  moderately  in  a 
cylindrical  percolator  ; then  add  enough  menstruum  to  saturate  the  powder  and 'leave  a 
stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator,  macerate  for 
forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  menstruum, 


EXTRA  CTUM  VIB  URXI  PR  UXIFOLII  FL  UID  UM.—ZTNGIBERIS  FL  UID  TJM.  711 


using  the  same  proportions  of  alcohol  and  water  as  before,  until  the  viburnum  is  ex- 
hausted. Reserve  the  first  850  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remainder  to  a 
soft  extract;  dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  menstruum  to  make 
the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — V.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  7i  fluid  ounces  of  menstruum, 
and  the  first  21  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve ; the  final  volume  of  finished 
product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

Fluid  extract  of  cramp-bark  has  a reddish-brown  color,  slight  odor,  and  somewhat 
astringent  taste. 

Dose,  Gm.4-8  (1-2  fluidrachms). 

EXTRACTUM  VIBURNI  PRUNIFOLII  FLUIDUM,  U.  S.— Fluid 
Extract  of  Viburnum  Prunifolium. 

Fluid  extract  of  blackhaw-bark,  E.  ; Extrait  liquide  deviburne , Fr.  ; Fliissiges  Vibumum- 
Extrakt , G-. 

Preparation. — Viburnum,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm.  ; Alcohol,  Water,  each  a 
sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  750  Co.  of  alcohol  with  250  Cc.  of  water, 
and,  having  moistened  the  powder  with  300  Cc.  of  menstruum,  pack  it  moderately  in 
a cylindrical  percolator ; then  add  enough  of  the  menstruum  to  saturate  the  powder  and 
leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator  close  the 
lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours. 
Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  menstruum,  until  the  viburnum 
is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  650  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remainder  to 
a soft  extract ; dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  menstruum  to  make 
the  fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  71  fluidounces  of  menstruum, 
alcohol  3 volumes,  water  1 volume,  and  the  first  21  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside  as 
reserve ; the  final  volume  of  finished  product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

The  fluid  extract  is  of  a deep  brown-red  color  and  of  the  astringent  and  bitter  taste  of 
the  bark. 

Uses. — Doubtless  this  preparation  represents  the  undetermined  virtues  of  viburnum. 
Done,  Gm.  2—4  (rr^xxx-lx). 

EXTRACTUM  XANTHOXYLI  FLUIDUM,  U.  S.— Fluid  Extract  of 

Xanthoxylum. 

Fluid  extract  of  prickly  ash,  E.  ; Extrait  liquide  d'ecorce  de  clavalier,  Fr.;  Fliissiges 
Zah  uwehrinden-Extrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Xanthoxylum,  in  No.  40  powder,  1000  Gm.  ; Alcohol,  a sufficient 
quantity ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  250  Cc.  of  alcohol,  and  pack  it 
firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator ; then  add  enough  alcohol  to  saturate  the  powder  and 
leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator  close  the 
lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours. 
Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  alcohol,  until  the  xanthoxylum 
is  exhausted.  Reserve  the  first  900  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remainder  to 
a soft  extract;  dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  alcohol  to  make  the 
fluid  extract  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  6 fluidounces  of  the  men- 
struum, and  the  first  22  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve ; the  final  volume 
of  finished  product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

A newly-introduced  fluid  extract  of  a reddish-brown  color,  and  possessing  the  acrid 
taste  of  the  bark. 

Uses. — It  is  probable  that  this  preparation  contains  all  the  active  constituents  of 
xanthoxylum.  Its  dose  is  stated  to  be  Gm.  2-4  (f^ss-j). 

EXTRACTUM  ZINGIBERIS  FLUIDUM,  U.  S.— Fluid  Extract  of 

Ginger. 

Extrait  liquide  de  gingemhre , Fr.  ; Fliissiges  Iugwer-Extrakt,  G. 

Preparation. — Ginger,  in  No.  40  powder,  1000  Gm.  ; Alcohol,  a sufficient  quantity  ; 
to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  250  Cc.  of  alcohol,  and  pack  it  firmly  in  a 


712 


FAB  IAN  A. 


cylindrical  percolator ; then  add  enough  alcohol  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a 
stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator  close  the  lower 
orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then 
allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  alcohol,  until  the  ginger  is  exhausted. 
Reserve  the  first  900  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  remainder  to  a soft  extract ; 
dissolve  this  in  the  reserved  portion,  and  add  enough  alcohol  to  make  the  fluid  extract 
measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  the  drug  should  be  moistened  with  about  6 fluidounces  of  menstruum 
(alcohol),  and  the  first  22  fluidounces  of  percolate  set  aside  as  reserve;  the  final  volume 
of  finished  product  should  be  made  up  to  24  fluidounces. 

Ginger  is  readily  exhausted  by  alcohol  ; the  brownish-red  fluid  extract  is  five  times 
stronger  than  the  tincture  of  ginger,  and  has  the  same  sensible  properties,  but  in  a higher 
degree.  It  is  used  in  preparing  Syrupus  zingiberis,  U.  S. 

Uses. — It  is  a convenient  substitute  for  the  tincture  on  account  of  its  greater  strength, 
and  for  the  infusion  on  account  of  its  smaller  bulk.  Dose,  Gm.  0.60  (npx). 

FABIANA.— Fabiana. 

The  branches  of  Fabiana  imbricata,  Ruiz  et  Paeon. 

Nat.  Ord. — Solanaceae,  Nicotianeee. 

Origin  and  Description. — The  plant  is  tree-like,  or  more  frequently  shrubby,  and 
grows  in  sandy  fields  and  on  dry  hills  in  Chili,  where  it  is  known  as  pichi.  It  is  about 
4.5-5  M.  (15  or  18  feet)  high,  and  bears  single  flowers  terminating  the  numerous  branches, 
and  having  a tubular  white  and  purplish  corolla  12-19  Mm.  (^  to  f inch)  long,  much 
exceeding  the  small  calyx  ; the  fruit  is  a small,  two-celled,  and  two-valved  capsule,  con- 
taining few  subglobular  and  angular  seeds.  The  larger  branches  are  covered  with  a thin, 
smoothish,  somewhat  warty,  brown-gray  bark,  which  adheres  firmly  to  the  yellowish 
tough  wood.  The  younger  branches  are  2-5  Mm.  (yL  to  ^ inch)  thick,  and  are  densely 
covered  by  the  scale-like  and  closely-imbricated  leaves,  which  are  about  1 Mm.  (-^y  inch) 
long,  sessile,  ovate,  entire,  smooth,  and  of  a bluish-green  color.  The  drug  has  a peculiar 
aromatic  odor  and  a disagreeable  bitter  taste. 

Constituents. — Dr-  Rusby’s  experiments  (1885)  indicated  the  presence  of  an  alka- 
loid. Dr.  Lyons  (1886)  obtained  about  0.1  per  cent,  of  this  alkaloid,  which  is  soluble  in 
ether,  forms  crystallizable  bitter  salts,  and  yields  precipitates  with  the  usual  reagents ; 
also,  a considerable  quantity  of  bitter  resin  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  chloroform,  and 
alkalies ; a tasteless  crystalline,  neutral  body,  soluble  in  benzin  and  ether,  and  crystal- 
lizing from  the  alcoholic  tincture ; some  volatile  oil  and  a fluorescent  compound  resem- 
bling aesculin  in  behavior  and  possessing  a very  bitter  taste.  Benzin  dissolves  about  3 per 
cent.,  and  ether  about  33  per  cent.,  of  the  drug;  the  alcoholic  tincture  yields  a dense 
precipitate  with  water. 

Action  and  Uses. — Pichi,  or  fabiana,  is  a popular  medicine  in  Chili  for  urinary 
disorders , and  has  even  been  credited  with  cures  of  stone  and  gravel.  It  was  also  used 
in  dyspeptic,  and  especially  hepatic,  diseases.  Relief  obtained  by  a prominent  citizen 
from  its  use  in  some  vesical  affection  attracted  attention,  and  induced  Dr.  Ramirez  to 
inquire  into  its  real  value.  It  was  found  to  resemble  very  closely  that  of  various  tere- 
binthinate,  balsamic  and  other  medicines  that  impregnate  the  urine  and  either  heal  or 
protect  the  mucous  lining  of  the  urinary  passages.  Like  them,  it  is  totally  unfit  for  use 
in  structural  diseases  of  the  kidneys.  Several  cases  illustrating  its  utility  in  vesical  catarrh 
and  in  renal  and  vesical  calculi  have  been  published  (Wyman,  Therapeutic  Gaz.,  x.  221 ; 
Fenwick,  ibid.,  xi.  703;  Green,  ibid. , xii.  368;  also  Med.  Record , xxxii.  623;  xxxviii. 
5 ; Therap.  Gaz.,  xii.  240,  594).  The  virtue  attributed  to  it  in  hepatic  disease  is 
believed  to  depend  upon  its  favorable  influence  upon  gastric  digestion.  Pichi  is  regarded 
by  the  Chilian  shepherds  as  very  efficacious  in  a disease  of  sheep  which  is  supposed  to 
be  hydatids  of  the  liver. 

A decoction  prepared  by  boiling  Gm.  32  (^j)  of  the  coarsely  powdered  twigs  in  Gm. 
1000  (2  pints)  of  water  should  be  taken  in  four  equal  portions  in  twenty-four  hours ; or  a 
fluid  extract,  of  which  a tablespoonful  represents  Gm.  8 (gij)  of  the  plant,  may  be  given, 
diluted,  at  similar  intervals.  Fenwick  states  the  dose  of  the  fluid  extract  at  £ss.  to  3J, 
and  of  the  infusion  a wineglassful. 


FARINA  TRITICI. 


713 


FARINA  TRITICI,  Br.— Wheaten  Flour. 

Wheat  flour , E. ; Farine  de  hU  ( de  froment ),  Fr. ; Weizenmehl , G. ; Hanna  de  trigo , Sp. 

The  grain  of  wheat,  Triticum  sativum,  Lamarck , s.  Tr.  vulgare,  Ti^ars,  ground  and 
sifted.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 294. 

Nat.  Ord. — Graminaceae,  Hordeae. 

Origin. — An  annual  or  biennial  herb  which,  though  now  unknown  in  the  wild  state, 
is  probably  indigenous  to  Central  Asia,  but  has  been  under  cultivation  from  a very  early 
period,  and  is  at  present  raised  in  most  countries  of  the  temperate  zones  in  numerous 
varieties  produced  by  cultivation,  some  having  the  chaff  awnless  or  the  lower  paleae  more 
or  less  awned,  and  the  fruit  of  a white  or  reddish  color.  Spring  or  summer  wheat  (Tr. 
aestivum)  is  awned  or  bearded,  winter  wheat  (Tr.  hybernum)  mostly  awnless.  Ihe  fruit 
is  oval-oblong,  obtuse,  grooved  on  the  upper  side,  and  of  a yellowish  or  brownish  color. 

Of  other  cultivated  species  the  following  may  be  mentioned : Trit.  turgidum,  Linne, 
of  which  Tr.  compositum,  or  Egyptian  wheat,  is  a variety  with  compound  spikes ; Tr. 
durum,  Desfontaines , or  horny  wheat , with  long  awns,  including  several  varieties ; Tr. 
Spelta,  Linne , or  spelt , with  triangular  ovate  and  obtuse  grains,  which  are  little  mealy, 
and  Tr.  monococcum,  Linne , or  one-grained  wheat , with  small  spikes,  each  spikelet  pro- 
ducing one  somewhat  triangular  grain. 

Wheat  grain,  like  the  similar  graminaceous  fruits,  has  the  integuments  of  the  fruit 
and  seed  united ; underneath  this  covering  is  a layer  of  cells  containing  gluten , and  then 
follows  the  cellular  tissue  of  the  so-called  albumen  or  endosperm,  this  being  filled  with 
starch;  the  embryo  is  located  at  the  base  of  the  endosperm.  Wheat  is  most  generally 
prepared  for  food  by  grinding,  and  separating  by  means  of  sieves  the  broken  integuments, 
or  bran,  from  the  fine  amylaceous  white  portion,  or  flour. 

Description. — Wheaten  flour  is  a very  fine  white  powder,  without  odor  and  of  an 
insipid  taste.  The  starch-granules,  which  largely  compose  it,  are  described  with  other 
starches  (see  Amylum). 

Composition. — Air-dry  wheat  contains,  according  to  Millon  (1854),  12  to  17  per 
cent,  of  water,  8 to  16  per  cent,  of  gluten,  about  2 per  cent,  of  fat,  about  2 per  cent,  of 
cellulose,  and  1£  to  2 per  cent,  of  ash.  Older  analyses  of  different  kinds  of  wheat  were 
principally  made  by  A.  Vogel  (1818),  Proust  (1820),  and  Henry  and  Vauquelin  (1822«). 
The  amount  of  starch  varies  between  60  and  70  per  cent.,  and  the  weight  of  nitrogen 
between  1.6  and  2.7  per  cent. ; the  ash  contains  nearly  50  per  cent,  of  phosphoric  acid. 
Clifford  Richardson  and  C.  A.  Crampton  (1886)  found  in  the  embryo  some  wax,  a rapidly 
drying  oil,  ? per  cent,  of  allantoin,  and  about  18  per  cent,  of  cane-sugar  and  highly 
dextrogyrate  sugar.  The  bran  contains  over  7 per  cent,  of  ash,  while  the  nitrogenated 
principles  enter  chiefly  the  flour.  If  the  latter  be  kneaded  with  cold  water  as  long  as 
the  liquid  becomes  milky,  a yellowish-gray  elastic  and  glutinous  mass  remains,  which  is 
the  gluten  of  Beccaria,  retains  about  70  per  cent,  of  water,  and  consists,  according  to 
Von  Bibra,  in  the  dry  state,  of  about  70  per  cent,  vegetable  fibrin , 3.8  to  9.3  vegetable 
casein , 7.5  to  19.5  glutin , and  4.6  to  8.2  per  cent,  of  fat.  On  drying  it  assumes  a horn- 
like appearance  and  partly  loses  its  solubility  in  phosphoric  acid  and  potassa. 

To  purify  it,  Ritthausen  (1862-67)  dissolves  it  in  cold  very  dilute  potassa  solution  (1 
to  1000  parts  of  water),  decants  from  the  undissolved  starch,  and  precipitates  with  acetic 
acid.  The  precipitate  is  repeatedly  treated  with  fresh  portions  of  alcohol,  commencing 
with  spec.gr.  .914,  and  increasing  the  strength  finally  to  absolute  alcohol.  After  another 
washing  with  ether  the  insoluble  portion  constitutes  gluten- casein,  which  is  slightly  solu- 
ble in  acetic  acid,  freely  soluble  in  potassa,  and  becomes  insoluble  by  heat.  On  evapor- 
ating the  united  alcoholic  liquids  to  one-half  and  cooling,  gluten-fibrin  is  separated,  which 
is  purified  by  dissolving  it  repeatedly  in  50  and  60  per  cent,  alcohol.  It  is  freely  soluble 
in  dilute  acetic  acid,  and  when  boiled  with  water,  in  which  it  is  insoluble,  it  is  converted 
into  a jelly.  After  the  separation  of  gluten-fibrin  the  greater  portion  of  the  alcohol  is 
evaporated ; the  precipitate  appearing  on  cooling  is  treated  with  a little  alcohol,  washed 
with  ether,  dissolved  in  a little  65  per  cent,  alcohol,  and  precipitated  by  absolute  alcohol. 
The  precipitate  is  niucedin ; the  solution  contains  gliadin.  Both  principles  are  freely 
soluble  in  diluted  alcohol  and  in  weak  acids  and  alkalies.  The  above  arc  the  most 
important  vegetable  protein  compounds , and  contain  between  0.5  and  1 per  cent,  of  sul- 
phur, and  between  15  and  18  per  cent,  of  nitrogen. 

Allied  Drugs. — Farixa  Fab,e,  from  the  seeds  of  Vicia  Faba,  Linn4  (Faba  vulgaris,  Mcench)°, 
Windsor  bean,  Horse  bean,  E. ; Ffcve  de  marais,  Fr. ; Saubohne,  G.  ; JIaba,  Sp.  The  seeds 
contain  starch  36,  legumin  24,  fat  2,  sugar  2,  and  gummy  matters  about  9 per  cent. 


714 


FEL  BO  VIS. 


Farina  Phaseoli  from  the  seeds  of  Phaseolus  vulgaris,  LinnS;  Kidney  bean,  E. ; Haricot, 
Fr. ; Gartenbohne,  G. ; Frijol,  Sp.  The  seeds  contain  starch  38,  legumin  25,  fat  3,  sugar  0.5, 
and  gummy  matters  about  11  per  cent. 

Action  and  Uses. — Wheaten  flour  is  often  used  as  a dusting-powder  to  allay  the 
heat  and  pain  of  local  inflammations,  such  as  superficial  burns  and  scalds , erysipelas,  ery- 
thema, intertrigo , prickly  heat , etc.  But  it  is  very  far  inferior  for  such  purposes  to 
powdered  starch,  and  even  to  rye  flour.  Its  dietetic  uses  need  not  here  be  considered,  but 
one  among  them,  which  is  also  partly  medicinal,  is  worthy  of  notice : it  is  the  administra- 
tion of  an  uncooked  paste  made  from  wheaten  flour  in  many  cases  of  diarrhoea , and  espe- 
cially in  those  depending  upon  debility.  The  summer  diarrhoeas  of  this  climate  are 
usually  curable  by  this  simple  remedy  if  the  patient  rests  and  abstains  from  other  food. 
Flour  roasted  in  a skillet  is,  like  toasted  bread,  astringent,  and  excellent  in  chronic  and 
subacute  diarrhoeas. 

Faba  vulgaris,  or  horse  bean,  has  been  used  as  food  from  time  immemorial.  Bean 
flour,  like  other  analogous  products,  is  a popular  remedy  for  diarrhoea,  and  the  ash  of 
burned  bean-stalks  and  husks  infused  in  white  wine  is  a popular  diuretic  in  France 
(Gazin).  Quite  recently  a watery  infusion  of  the  flowers  has  been  vaunted  as  an  efficient 
remedy  for  attacks  of  gravel  and  for  the  nodosities  caused  by  gout  {Bull,  de  Therap.,  cxvi. 
232,  354). 


FEL  BOVIS,  77.  £.-Ox-Gall. 

Fel  bovinum , Fel  tanri , Bills  bubula. — Ox-bile , E.  ; Bile  {Fiel')  de  boeuj ’ F.  Cod. ; Ochsen 
galle , Rindsgalle , G. ; FLiel  de  toro , Bills  de  buey , Sp. 

The  fresh  bile  of  Bos  Taurus,  Linne. 

Class  Mammalia.  Order  Ruminantia. 

Origin  and  Properties. — Bile  is  a green  or  brownish-green  viscid,  transparent, 
or  more  frequently  translucent,  liquid  which  is  separated  by  the  liver  in  the  gall-bladder ; 
it  has  a peculiar  odor,  which  becomes  prominent  on  heating,  a nauseous,  sweet,  and  bitter 
taste,  a specific  gravity  of  about  1.02,  a slight  alkaline  or  sometimes  a neutral  reaction, 
and  dissolves  completely  when  agitated  with  water.  On  warming  it  becomes  thinner,  and 
may  then  be  readily  strained  through  moistened  muslin,  whereby  fragments  of  tissue, 
epithelial  cells,  etc.  are  removed.  When  mixed  with  its  own  weight  or  twice  its  bulk  of 
alcohol  a precipitate  is  produced  in  fresh  bile  consisting  almost  exclusively  of  mucilaginous 
matter,  and  the  liquid  filtered  from  it  and  freed  from  alcohol  by  evaporation  resists  putre- 
faction for  a long  time. 

“ A mixture  of  2 drops  of  ox-gall  and  10  Cc.  of  water,  when  treated,  first,  with  a drop 
of  a freshly  prepared  solution  of  1 part  of  sugar  in  4 parts  of  water,  and  afterwards 
with  sulphuric  acid,  cautiously  added,  until  the  precipitate  first  formed  is  redissolved, 
gradually  acquires  a cherry-red  color,  changing,  successively,  to  carmine,  purple,  and 
violet .”—77.  S. 

Constituents. — The  principal  coloring  matter  of  bile  appears  to  be  bilirubin , formerly 
called  colepyrrhin , C16H18N203,  which  is  slightly  soluble  in  alcohol  and  ether,  but  dissolves 
in  chloroform,  carbon  disulphide,  and  benzene ; it  forms  an  amorphous  or  crystalline 
orange-colored  or  red  powder.  It  is  accompanied  by  bilifuscin , a dark  olive-brown  powder 
soluble  in  alcohol  and  in  hot  chloroform  ; biliprasin , a green-black  powder  insoluble  in 
chloroform,  soluble  in  alcohol,  with  a green,  or  in  the  presence  of  ammonia  with  a brown, 
color ; and  bilihumin , a blackish  powder  insoluble  in  simple  solvents  and  often  found  in 
biliary  concretions.  Biliverdin,  formed  by  the  oxidation  of  bilirubin,  is  a dark-green 
powder  soluble  in  alcohol  with  a green  color  and  insoluble  in  water,  ether,  and  chloroform 
(Stadeler,  1864).  The  fatty  matter  of  bile  is  chiefly  cholesterin , C26H44O,  which  is  also  an 
ingredient  of  the  brain,  the  nerves,  the  yelk  of  eggs,  etc.  It  crystallizes  in  colorless 
laminae  or  prisms,  is  unchanged  by  boiling  potassa,  dissolves  in  ether,  chloroform,  and 
hot  alcohol,  and  is  chemically  a monatomic  alcohol.  Ox-gall  contains  about  3 per  cent, 
each  of  the  sodium  salts  of  two  peculiar  acids,  named  glycocholic  (the  cholic  and  of  some 
older  authors)  and  taurocholic  (Strecker’s  choleic)  add , a part  of  the  former  of  which, 
together  with  the  remaining  pigments,  is  precipitated  by  neutral  lead  acetate  from  fresh 
bile  previously  decolorized  by  animal  charcoal.  When  to  the  filtrate  from  this  pre- 
cipitate lead  subacetate  is  carefully  added  until  the  insoluble  compound  formed  has  a 
white  color,  the  precipitate  will  consist  of  lead  glycocholate  and  taurocholate,  and  the 
filtrate  contains  only  taurocholic  acid,  which  is  precipitated  on  the  further  addition 
of  basic  lead  acetate.  Hiifner  (1874)  observed  that  glycocholic  acid  usually  crystal- 


FEL  BO  VIS. 


715 


lizes  out  when  fresh  beef-gall  is  mixed  with  an  excess  of  hydrochloric  acid  and  ether. 
Emich  (1882)  prefers  the  use  of  benzene  in  the  place  of  ether,  and  ascertained  that  in 
those  cases  where  crystals  are  not  obtained  by  this  treatment  the  glycocholate  has  been 
reduced  to  about  f per  cent,  and  the  taurocholate  increased  to  about  5^  per  cent.  Glyco- 
cholic  acid,  G,6H43N06,  is  in  very  fine  white  needles  of  a silky  lustre  and  a sweetish-bitter 
taste.  At  20°  C.  (68°  F.)  it  requires  for  solution  11,100  parts  of  benzene,  9090  parts  of 
chloroform,  1075  parts  of  ether,  36.3  parts  of  50  per  cent,  alcohol  or  3030  parts  of  water, 
but  is  much  more  soluble  in  solutions  of  taurocholic  acid.  On  being  boiled  with  acids  it 
is  converted  into  insoluble  paraglycocholic  acid , melting  at  183°  C.  (361.4°  F.),  while 
glycocholic  acid  melts  at  132°  C.  (269.6°  F.).  Its  salts  have  a sweet  taste  and  are  mostly 
soluble  in  water  and  alcohol.  Boiled  with  alkalies,  it  takes  up  1 molecule  of  water  and 
splits  into  glycocol  ( glycin  or  amidoacetic  acid ),  C2H5N02,  and  cholic  acid  ( cholalic  acid  of 
Strecker),  Ci4Hw05,  which  has  a bitter  and  afterward  sweetish  taste.  Taurocholic  acid , 
C26H45NS07,  is  in  silky  acicular  crystals  easily  soluble  in  water  and  alcohol,  and  when 
boiled  with  alkalies  decomposed  into  cholic  acid  and  taurin  ( amido-isethionic  acid ), 

c2h7nso3. 

Ox-bile  contains  the  two  biliary  acids  in  nearly  equal  proportions ; human  bile  mainly 
taurocholic  acid,  which  is  found  in  dog-bile  almost  to  the  exclusion  of  other  acids.  Both 
acids,  dissolved  in  water  and  mixed  with  a little  syrup  and  afterward  with  oil  of  vitriol, 
acquire  a red  color,  changing  to  carmine,  purple,  and  violet  {Pettenkofer' s test  for  bile). 
This  is  due  to  the  decomposition  of  the  sugar  under  the  influence  of  sulphuric  acid,  by 
which  furfurol  is  formed,  which  then  forms  the  colored  compounds  with  biliary  acids. 
Using  syrupy  phosphoric  in  place  of  sulphuric  acid,  Drechsel  (1881)  observed  that  the 
reaction  is  less  interfered  with  by  an  excess  of  sugar.  Cholic  acid  shows  a similar 
behavior,  and  the  coloration  is  also  obtained  with  unpurified  bile,  and  with  glucose  as 
well  as  cane-sugar  ; according  to  Van  den  Brock  (1846),  the  principal  constituents  of 
bile  give  the  reaction  with  sulphuric  acid  without  the  previous  addition  of  sugar. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparations.— Fel  bo  vis  purificatum,  U.  S. ; Fel  bovi- 
num  purificatum,  Br. ; Fel  tauri  depuratum. — Purified  ox-gall  or  ox-bile,  E. ; Fiel 
de  boeuf  purifie,  Bile  purifie,  Fr.  ; Gereinigte  Ochsengalle,  G. — Fresh  ox-gall  300  Cc. ; 
Alcohol  100  Cc.  Evaporate  the  ox-gall  in  a porcelain  capsule  on  the  water-bath  to  100 
Gm.  : then  add  to  it  the  alcohol,  agitate  the  mixture  thoroughly,  and  let  it  stand,  well 
covered,  for  three  or  four  days.  Decant  the  clear  solution,  filter  the  remainder,  and, 
having  mixed  the  liquids  and  distilled  off  the  alcohol,  evaporate  to  a pilular  consistence. 
— U.  S.  The  British  Pharmacopoeia  directs  fresh  ox-bile  1 pint  to  be  evaporated  to  5 
fluidounces,  and  precipitated  with  10  fluidounces  of  rectified  spirit ; the  remainder  of  the 
process  is  identical  with  the  foregoing.  The  object  is  the  removal  of  the  mucilage, 
whereby  ox-gall  is  rendered  less  prone  to  change. 

Fel  bovis  inspissatum,  Extractum  fellis  bovini. — Inspissated  ox-gall,  E. ; Fiel 
epaissi,  Extrait  de  bile  de  boeuf,  Fr. ; Eingedickte  Bindsgalle,  G. — Fresh  ox-gall  100 
parts;  to  make  15  parts.  Heat  the  ox-gall  to  a temperature  not  exceeding  80°  C.  (176° 
F.)  ; strain  it  through  muslin,  and  evaporate  the  strained  liquid,  on  a water-bath  in  a 
porcelain  capsule,  to  15  parts. — U S.  1880.  By  this  process  the  fragments  of  tissue 
present  in  bile  are  strained  off  and  the  water  is  mostly  evaporated.  Following  strictly 
the  letter  of  the  directions,  the  product  must  vary  in  consistence  and  permanence.  The 
French  Codex  more  properly  directs  the  evaporation  to  be  continued  until  a firm  extract 
is  obtained ; the  yield  is  from  11  to  13,  or  sometimes  15,  per  cent. 

Both  preparations  are  deep  yellowish-green  extract-like  masses  having  the  peculiar 
odor,  taste,  and  behavior  of  bile,  and  being  completely  soluble  in  water.  Only  purified 
ox-gall  is  completely  soluble  in  spirit,  and  its  aqueous  solution  is  not  precipitated  by 
alcohol. 

The  German  Pharmacopoeia  of  1872  directed  a still  purer  article,  from  which,  besides 
the  mucilage,  the  biliary  coloring  matters  also  have  been  removed ; the  decoloration  is 
effected  after  the  removal  of  the  mucilage  by  distilling  off  the  alcohol  and  then  adding 
to  the  residue  recently-purified  and  well-washed  still  moist  animal  charcoal ; 8 to  10  parts 
of  it  will  be  sufficient  for  100  parts  of  bile.  The  mixture  is  occasionally  agitated,  and 
when  the  liquid  shows  only  a slight  yellow  color  it  is  passed  through  a moistened  filter, 
evaporated  in  a porcelain  capsule  by  means  of  a water-bath,  and  then  completely  exsic- 
cated in  a drying  closet  or  by  means  of  a sand-bath,  the  heat  of  which  must  not  be 
allowed  to  rise  above  100°  C.  (212°  F.).  If  spread  upon  glass  plates  it  may  be  scaled, 
or  the  dry  mass  is  reduced  to  powder  and  preserved  in  small  well-corked  vials.  The  yield 
is  nearly  7 per  cent.  It  forms  a yellow  or  yellowish-white  powder,  which  attracts  moist- 


716 


FERRI  ARSEN  AS. 


ure  from  the  atmosphere  and  dissolves  completely  in  water  and  alcohol,  the  solutions  being 
of  a yellowish  color  and  of  the  sweet  and  bitter  taste  of  bile.  When  heated  to  redness 
it  burns,  leaving  a small  amount  of  a white  alkaline  ash.  This  preparation  is  sometimes 
sold  as  sodium  choleate  or  choleinate. 

Action  and  Uses. — Ox-gall  (or  pig-gall,  which  is  supposed  to  be  more  analogous 
to  human  bile)  is  thought  to  be  an  efficient  remedy  for  habitual  constipation  depending 
upon  atony  of  the  intestine.  After  its  use  the  bowel  is  not  so  apt  to  become  torpid  as 
after  that  of  ordinary  purgatives.  It  is  perhaps  of  some  interest  to  note  that  the  medi- 
cine which  most  nearly  resembles  it  in  this  respect  is  aloes,  which,  like  bile,  is  very  bitter 
and  tends  to  irritate  the  rectum.  The  dyspeptic  derangements  which  are  apt  to  attend 
constipation,  and  which  often  depend  upon  a distended  colon  compressing  the  liver  or  its 
ducts,  usually  subside  under  purgation  of  any  kind.  It  is  very  doubtful  if  ox-gall 
exhibits  any  of  the  special  virtues  which  have  been  attributed  to  it  under  these  circum- 
stances. In  jaundice  depending  upon  catarrh  of  the  bile-ducts  this  medicine  is  some- 
times found  advantageous,  probably  in  virtue  both  of  its  purgative  operation  and  of  its 
supplying  for  duodenal  digestion  the  agent  which  the  liver  fails  to  secrete.  The  objec- 
tion to  its  use,  that  it  will  be  absorbed  into  the  blood  already  overcharged  with  bile,  is 
more  specious  than  sound.  Bile  has  been  used  as  a vermifuge  for  lumbricoid  ascarides. 
As  a topical  remedy  it  has  been  applied  with  alleged  success  to  the  treatment  of  various 
glandular  hypertrophies  and  indurations,  but  this  method  has  not  been  accepted.  Specu- 
lative notions  have  led  to  the  use  of  ox-gall  in  continued  fevers,  but  no  clinical  proof  of 
its  efficiency  exists. 

The  administration  of  bile  in  a liquid  state  is  too  disgusting  to  be  recommended.  It 
may  be  given  in  the  form  of  inspissated  bile,  which  is  officinal.  Gm.  0.33  (gr.  v.)  of 
this  preparation  are  estimated  to  be  equal  to  Gm.  7.60  (gr.  c)  of  fresh  bile.  It  may  be 
made  into  pills  coated  with  gelatin  or  enclosed  in  gelatin  capsules.  If  taken  after  meals 
this  coating  delays  the  escape  of  the  bile  until  the  food  is  ready  to  pass  through  the 
pylorus.  About  Gm.  0.60  (gr.  x)  may  be  given  at  a dose. 

FERRI  ARSENAS,  Br, — Iron  Arsenate. 

Ferrum  arsenicicum , Arsenias  ferrosus. — Ferrous  arsenate , E. ; Arseniate  de  fer , Fr. ; 
Arsensaures  Eisen , G. 

Formula  3Fe(Fe0)As04.16H20.  Molecular  weight  1086.74. 

Preparation. — Dissolve  Sodium  Arsenate  (dried  at  300°  F.),  15}  ounces,  in  about  5 
pints,  and  Ferrous  Sulphate,  20}  ounces,  in  about  6 pints,  of  boiling  Distilled  Water  ; mix 
the  two  solutions,  and  add  Sodium  Bicarbonate,  4\  ounces,  dissolved  in  a little  distilled 
water  ; stir  thoroughly  ; collect  the  white  precipitate  which  has  formed  on  a calico  filter, 
and  wash  until  the  washings  cease  to  be  affected  by  a dilute  solution  of  barium  chloride. 
Squeeze  the  washed  precipitate  between  folds  of  strong  linen  in  a screw  press,  and  dry 
it  on  porous  bricks  in  a warm  air-chamber  whose  temperature  shall  not  exceed  100  F°. 
— Br. 

The  reaction  takes  place  between  3 mol.  of  ferrous  sulphate  and  2 mol.  of  sodium 
arsenate,  which  corresponds  with  the  above  quantities  of  crystallized  salts,  but  the  Phar- 
macopoeia directs  the  sodium  salt,  dried  at  300°  F.,  which  is  an  excess  of  about  66  per 
cent.  On  mixing  the  two  solutions,  ferrous  arsenate  (Fe3As208)  is  precipitated,  but  a 
portion  remains  dissolved  in  the  acid  liquid,  and  is  recovered  by  nearly  neutralizing  with 
sodium  bicarbonate,  carbon  dioxide  being  evolved.  The  white  precipitate  is  very  bulky, 
and  while  being  washed  to  free  it  from  the  mother-liquor  and  dried  it  is  oxidized  and 
converted  into  ferroso-ferric  arsenate  of  the  formula  given  above  (Wittstein,  1866).  The 
change  is  indicated  by  the  gradual  disappearance  of  the  white  color  until  the  salt  finally 
becomes  olive-green  or  blue-green.  In  the  reaction  and  final  result  the  process  corre- 
sponds nearly  with  the  one  for  the  blue  iron  phosphate. 

Properties. — Iron  arsenate  is  a green  or  blue-green  amorphous  powder  insoluble  in 
water  and  in  alcohol,  but  dissolving  readily  in  dilute  hydrochloric  acid,  yielding  a bright- 
yellow  solution  in  which  blue  precipitates  are  produced  with  both  ferrocyanide  and  ferricya- 
nide  of  potassium,  and  which  yields  with  hydrogen  sulphide  first  a milkiness  (sulphur) 
and  afterward  a yellow  precipitate  of  arsenic  sulphide.  It  contains  31.68  per  cent,  of 
As205  and  26.4  per  cent,  of  water,  most  of  which  is  expelled  when  heated  to  100°  0. 
(212°  F.),  the  remainder  being  given  off  at  a red  heat  without  loss  of  arsenic.  It  may 
be  distinguished  from  iron  phosphate,  which  resembles  it  in  appearance,  by  boiling  a 
small  portion  with  an  excess  of  caustic  soda,  filtering  and  neutralizing  exactly  with  nitric 


FERRI  BROMID  UM.— FERRI  CARBON  AS  SACCHARATUS. 


717 


acid,  when  a brick-red  precipitate  of  silver  arsenate  will  be  produced  on  the  addition  of 
silver  nitrate.  Iron  phosphate  similarly  treated  yields  a yellow  precipitate.  To  deter- 
mine the  amount  of  ferrous  salt,  which  theoretically  corresponds  to  19.82  per  cent,  of 
ferrous  oxide,  the  British  Pharmacopoeia  directs  the  dissolving  of  100  grains  in  an  excess 
of  diluted  sulphuric  acid,  and  adding  thereto  gradually  volumetric  solution  of  potassium 
dichromate  until  a drop  of  the  acid  liquid  ceases  to  give  a blue  precipitate  with  potas- 
sium ferricyanide  ; at  least  225  grain-measures  of  the  test-solution  should  be  required  for 
the  purpose,  indicating  3.78  per  cent,  of  iron  in  the  ferrous  state. 

Action  and  Uses. — It  is  difficult  to  conjecture  on  what  grounds  this  compound 
was  made  officinal,  since  the  proportion  of  iron  contained  in  the  dose  of  it  recommended, 
Gm.  0.004  (gr.  yL),  is  too  inconsiderable  to  have  any  curative  action.  Iron  and  arsenic 
are,  both  of  them,  medicines  the  dose  of  which  must  vary  greatly  and  frequently  with 
the  nature  of  the  disease  and  the  special  condition  of  the  patient,  and  it  is  better  that 
they  should  be  given  separately.  To  any  liquid  preparation  of  iron  the  solution  of 
potassium  arsenite  may  be  added  at  the  time  of  administration.  The  arseniate  of  iron 
may  be  given  in  a pill,  and  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.003  (gr.  -Ar),  gradually  increased  to  Gm. 
0.03  (gr.  i). 


FERRI  BROMIDUM. — Ferrous  Bromide. 

Ferrum  bromatum. — Bromide  of  Bon,  E. ; Bromure  ferreux , Fr. ; Eisenbromid , Ferro- 
bromid,  G. 

Formula  FeBr2.  Molecular  weight  215.4. 

Preparation  and  Properties. — It  is  prepared  by  gradually  adding  2 parts  of 
bromine  to  1 part  of  iron  filings  or  wire  and  10  parts  of  water,  and  digesting  until  the 
liquid  has  a greenish  color,  when  it  is  filtered  and  evaporated  in  an  iron  dish  to  dryness. 
It  forms  a grayish-black  mass  which,  on  exposure  to  air,  acquires  a brown  color  through 
oxidation.  From  its  hot  concentrated  solution  in  water  it  maybe  obtained  in  transparent 
pale-green  rhombic  plates  of  the  composition  FeBr2,6H20.  On  being  heated  to  redness 
in  contact  with  the  atmosphere  it  is  converted  into  ferric  oxide  and  ferric  bromide,  the 
latter  subliming  in  yellow  scales.  An  aqueous  solution  of  ferrous  bromide  preserved  by 
sugar,  has  been  proposed  as  a convenient  preparation.  (See  Syrupus  Ferri  Bromidi.) 

Action  and  Uses. — It  may  seem  singular  that  two  agents  so  physiologically 
antagonistic  as  iron  and  bromine  should  have  been  united  in  the  same  medicine,  since  the 
one  tends  to  produce  what  the  other  is  employed  to  subdue.  Practically,  however,  the 
bromine  of  the  compound  is  its  only  active  element.  This  preparation  has  been  recom- 
mended as  an  energetic  astringent  and  antistrumous  medicine,  and  has  been  prescribed 
in  hypertrophy  of  the  heart  and  uterus , for  scrofulous  glandular  swellings,  both  topically 
and  internally,  in  spermatorrhoea , blennorrhoea , leucorrhoea , hysteria , chorea , and  pulmonary 
phthisis.  It  has  been  given  in  doses  of  from  Gm.  0.3-0.12  (gr.  ss-ij).  There  is  not  the 
slightest  evidence  of  it  ever  having  been  useful  as  a medicine,  and,  as  it  is  dangerously 
poisonous,  it  ought  never  to  be  used  internally.  It  is  now,  says  Husemann,  entirely 
ibsolete,  and  Trousseau  and  Pidoux  pronounced  it  unworthy  of  special  notice. 

FERRI  OARBONAS  SACCHARATUS,  U.  S.,  Bv.— Saccharated 

Ferrous  Carbonate. 

Ferrum  carbonicum  saccharatum , P.  G.  ; Carbonas  ferrosus  saccharatus. — Saccharated 
carbonate  of  iron , E. ; Saccharure  de  proto-carbonate  de  fer  ( de  carbonate  ferreux'),  Fr.  ; 
Zuckerhaltiges  Ferrocarbonat,  G. 

Formula  of  ferrous  carbonate  FeC03  (anhydrous).  Molecular  weight  115.73. 

The  mixture  of  ferrous  carbonate  with  sugar  contains  20.5  per  cent.  Br.,  9.5-10  per 
cent.  P.  G.,  about  7.25  per  cent.  U.  S .,  of  metallic  iron. 

Preparation. — Ferrous  Sulphate,  50  Gm.  ; Sodium  Bicarbonate,  35  Gm.  ; Sugar,  in 
fine  powder,  80  Gm. ; Distilled  Water,  a sufficient  quantity,  to  make  100  Gm.  Dissolve 
the  Ferrous  Sulphate  in  200  Cc.  of  hot  Distilled  Water  and  the  Sodium  Bicarbonate  in 
500  Cc.  of  Distilled  Water  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  50°  C.  (122°  F.),  and  filter 
the  solutions  separately.  To  the  solution  of  sodium  bicarbonate  contained  in  a flask  hav- 
ing a capacity  of  about  1000  Cc.  add,  gradually,  the  solution  of  ferrous  sulphate,  and  mix 
thoroughly  by  rotating  the  flask.  Fill  up  the  flask  with  boiling  distilled  water,  cork  it 
loosely,  and  set  the  mixture  aside.  \\  hen  the  precipitate  has  subsided,  draw  off  the  clear, 
supernatant  liquid  by  means  of  a siphon,  and  then  fill  the  flask  again  with  hot  distilled 


718 


FERRI  CARBONAS  SACCHARATUS. 


water  in  the  same  manner,  until  the  decanted  liquid  gives  not  more  than  a slight  cloudi- 
ness with  barium  chloride  test-solution.  Finally  bring  the  precipitate  on  a muslin 
strainer,  and,  when  it  has  thoroughly  drained,  transfer  it  to  a porcelain  capsule  contain- 
ing the  sugar,  and  mix  intimately.  Evaporate  the  mixture  to  dryness,  by  means  of  a 
water-bath,  reduce  it  to  powder,  and  mix  intimately  with  it,  if  necessary,  enough  well- 
dried  sugar  to  make  the  final  product  weigh  100  Gm.  Keep  the  product  in  small,  well- 
stoppered  bottles. — U S. 

To  make  4 av.  ozs.  of  saccharated  ferrous  carbonate,  use  2 av.  ozs.  of  ferrous  sulphate 
dissolved  in  one-half  pint  of  hot  distilled  water  and  612.5  grains  of  sodium  bicarbonate 
dissolved  in  11  pints  of  warm  distilled  water ; mix  as  directed  above  in  a 40  oz.  flask,  and 
after  washing  the  precipitate  thoroughly,  incorporate  it  with  1400  grains  of  finely  pow- 
dered sugar,  evaporate  to  dryness,  and  finally  add  enough  sugar  to  bring  the  weight  up 
to  1750  grains  (4  av.  ozs.) 

Both  the  British  and  German  Pharmacopoeias  mix  the  iron  and  alkali  solutions  while 
hot,  and  thereby  avoid  absorption  of  oxygen  during  cooling ; in  other  respects  the  manip- 
ulation does  not  materially  differ.  For  10  parts  of  ferrous  sulphate  there  are  ordered  7 
parts  of  sodium  bicarbonate,  P.  G.,  61  parts  of  ammonium  carbonate,  Br. ; and  the  fer- 
rous carbonate  thus  obtained  is  mixed  with  sugar  5 parts,  Br.  (yield  9f  parts) — first  with 
milk-sugar  2 parts  and  sugar  6 parts — and  when  dry  with  sufficient  sugar  to  make  20 
parts,  P.  G. 

Ferrous  sulphate  and  sodium  bicarbonate  decompose  each  other,  forming  ferrous  car- 
bonate, carbon  dioxide,  and  sodium  sulphate  ; thus  : FeS04  + 2NaHC03  = FeC03  + C02 
-f-  H.20  + Na2S04.  The  operation  must  be  performed  with  the  air  excluded  as  much  as 
possible  ; hence  the  importance  of  employing  boiling  water  from  which  the  air  has  been 
expelled,  of  generating  carbon  dioxide  during  the  operation  by  the  use  of  sodium  bicar- 
bonate, of  performing  the  washing  by  decantation  in  deep  cylindrical  and  well-covered 
vessels,  and  of  collecting  and  draining,  or,  as  directed  by  the  Br.  P.,  expressing  the  pre- 
cipitate rapidly  ; the  subsequent  addition  of  the  sugar  will,  in  a measure,  protect  it  against 
oxidation  until  it  has  been  finally  dried. 

Properties. — Ferrous  carbonate  forms  small  lumps  or  a gray  or  greenish-gray  inodor- 
ous powder  having  a neutral  reaction  to  moistened  litmus-paper  and  a sweet  taste  like 
that  of  sugar,  followed  by  a very  feeble  chalybeate  taste.  On  exposure  to  dry  air  it  is 
slowly,  or  in  damp  air  rapidly,  oxidized,  and  is  therefore  best  preserved  in  small  well- 
filled  and  sealed  vials  ; if  it  has  changed  to  a brown  color  and  effervesces  only  slightly 
with  acids,  it  should  be  rejected.  When  heated  in  contact  with  the  air  it  becomes  black, 
evolving  the  odor  of  burning  sugar,  and  is  finally  converted  into  red-brown  ferric  oxide. 
Water  dissolves  only  the  sugar,  but  the  powder  is  completely  dissolved  with  effervescence 
in  dilute  hydrochloric  acid,  and  this  solution  gives  a blue  precipitate  with  both  potassium 
ferricyanide  and  ferrocyanide,  showing  the  presence  of  ferrous  and  of  ferric  salt.  Pure 
ferrous  carbonate  represents  53.7  per  cent,  of  ferrous  oxide ; the  anhydrous  salt,  FeCo3 
(mol.  weight  115.73),  represents  62.07  per  cent,  of  the  oxide. 

Tests. — The  powder,  placed  upon  moistened  red  litmus-paper,  should  not  change  the 
red  color  to  blue  (absence  of  alkali).  The  solution  in  diluted  hydrochloric  acid  should 
yield  no  precipitate  or  but  a slight  turbidity  with  barium  chloride,  indicating  only  traces 
of  sulphate  left  behind  from  the  mother-liquor. 

“If  1.16  (1.1573)  Gm.  of  saccharated  ferrous  carbonate  be  dissolved  in  10  Cc.  of 
diluted  sulphuric  acid,  and  the  solution  diluted  with  water  to  about  100  Cc.  it  should 
require  about  15  Cc.  of  decinormal  potassium  permanganate  solution  before  the  pink  tint 
imparted  to  the  liquid  ceases  immediately  to  disappear,  corresponding  to  about  15  per 
cent,  of  ferrous  carbonate  (each  Cc.  of  the  volumetric  solution  indicating  1 per  cent,  of 
pure  ferrous  carbonate).” — U.  S.  The  Br.  P.  demands  about  one-third  of  anhydrous  fer- 
rous carbonate,  and  that  3 Gm.  are  oxidized  by  at  least  20.75  Cc.  of  the  volumetric 
solution  of  potassium  dichromate,  indicating  not  less  than  16.1  per  cent,  iron  or  28.32  per 
cent,  carbonate.  If  none  of  the  ferrous  salt  had  been  oxidized,  the  powder  would  con- 
tain 20.85  per  cent.  U.  S.,  P.  G.,  42.8  per  cent.  Br.,  of  anhydrous  ferrous  carbonate. 
The  German  Pharmacopoeia  determines  the  total  iron  only. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  preparation  is  intended  to  take  the  place  of  the  subcar- 
bonate, one  of  the  oldest  pharmaceutical  preparations  of  iron,  and  to  be  a substitute  for 
rust  of  iron,  which  from  time  immemorial  had  been  used  in  medicine.  It  is  one  of  the 
most  employed  members  of  its  class,  and  may  be  recommended  in  all  forms  of  anaemia 
and  anaemic  chlorosis,  and  in  neuralgia,  chorea,  and  other  nervous  affections  depending 
upon  a deficiency  of  red  corpuscles  in  the  blood.  In  large  doses,  mixed  with  water,  it 


FERRI  CHLORIDUM. 


719 


may  be  resorted  to  when  the  hydrated  peroxide  cannot  be  procured  in  cases  of  poisoning 
by  arsenious  acid.  The  dose  is  Gm.  0.30  (gr.  v)  and  upward. 

Soluble  saccharated  oxide  of  iron  (Ph.  G.)  is  said  not  to  discolor  the  teeth  or  derange 
the  digestion,  and  has  been  recommended,  on  account  of  its  sweetish  taste  and  ready 
solubility,  for  children  and  females.  Dose,  Gm.  0.30-1.3  (gr.  v-xx)  three  times  a day. 

FERRI  CHLORIDUM,  77.  S. — Ferric  Chloride. 

Ferrum  sesquichloratum , P.  G. ; Ferrum  muriaticum  oxy datum , Chloridum  vel  Chloru - 
return  ferricum,  Ferri  per  chloridum. — Sesquichloride  (Per  chloride)  of  iron,  E. ; Perchlorure 
de  fer , Chlorure  ferrique , F.  ; Eisenchlorid,  G. 

Formula  Fe2Cl6.12H20.  Molecular  weight  539.5. 

Preparation. — Iron,  in  the  form  of  fine  bright  wire  and  cut  into  small  pieces,  15 
Gm. ; Hydrochloric  Acid,  Nitric  Acid,  Distilled  Water,  each  a sufficient  quantity.  Put 
the  iron  wire  into  a flask  capable  of  holding  about  200  Cc.,  pour  upon  it  54  Gm.  of 
hydrochloric  acid  previously  diluted  with  25  Cc.  of  distilled  water,  and  let  the  mixture 
stand  until  effervescence  ceases  ; then  heat  it  to  the  boiling-point,  filter  through  paper, 
and,  having  rinsed  the  flask  and  iron  wire  with  a little  boiling  distilled  water,  pass  the 
rinsings  through  the  filter.  To  the  filtered  liquid  add  28  Gm.  of  hydrochloric  acid,  and 
pour  the  mixture  slowly  and  gradually,  in  a stream,  into  8 Gm.  of  nitric  acid  contained 
in  a capacious  porcelain  vessel.  After  effervescence  ceases  apply  heat,  by  means  of  a 
sand-bath,  until  the  liquid  is  freed  from  nitrous  odor  and  ceases  to  yield  a blue  precipitate 
with  freshly-prepared  test-solution  of  potassium  ferricyanide.  Should  this  reagent 
produce  a blue  color,  add  a little  more  nitric  acid,  drop  by  drop,  as  long  as  effervescence 
is  observed,  and  evaporate  off  the  excess.  Then  add  5 Gm.  of  hydrochloric  acid  and 
enough  distilled  water  to  make  the  whole  weigh  60  Gm.,  and  set  this  aside,  covered  with 
glass,  until  it  forms  a solid  crystalline  mass.  Lastly,  break  it  into  pieces,  and  keep  the 
fragments  in  a glass-stoppered  bottle  protected  from  light. — JJ.  S. 

To  make  about  4 av.  ozs.  of  ferric  chloride  will  require  1 av.  oz.  of  iron  wire  ; 5 av. 
ozs.  and  350  grains  of  hydrochloric  acid,  divided  into  3 portions  of  3 av.  ozs.  and  263 
grains,  1 av.  oz.  and  380  grains,  and  145  grains  respectively ; 234  grains  of  nitric  acid. 
The  first  portion  of  hydrochloric  acid  is  diluted  with  1?  fluidounces  of  distilled  water, 
and  after  all  hydrochloric  acid  has  been  used  as  directed  above,  enough  distilled  water 
is  added  to  make  the  liquid  weigh  4 av.  ozs. ; it  is  then  set  aside  to  crystallize. 

In  making  this  salt  an  excess  of  iron  is  advantageously  used  to  facilitate  the  satura- 
tion of  the  first  portion  of  hydrochloric  acid ; the  metal,  in  combining  with  the  chlorine 
of  the  acid,  will. produce  ferrous  chloride,  FeCl2,  hydrogen  being  given  off.  The  whole 
liquid  should  be  passed  through  a paper  filter,  and  the  filtrate  at  once  mixed  with  hydro- 
chloric acid  to  prevent  the  deposition  of  ferric  oxychloride,  which  would  be  formed  by 
the  oxidizing  influence  of  the  atmospheric  air.  The  mixture  may  now  be  heated  to  near 
boiling,  and  the  nitric  acid  poured  in  small  portions  down  the  side  of  the  porcelain  cap- 
sule, and  the  mixture  continually  stirred;  or,  to  avoid  loss  of  hydrochloric  acid,  the  cold 
acid  solution  is  now  directed  to  be  poured  into  nitric  acid,  when  effervescence  will  com- 
mence and  the  oxidation  be  completed  on  applying  heat.  The  extrication  of  the  red 
vapors  causes  the  liquid  to  froth  considerably,  hence  the  necessity  of  using  a capsule 
holding  at  least  three  times  the  measure  of  the  liquid.  Diehl  (1867)  prefers  to  heat 
about  three-fourths  of  the  nitric  aeid,  and  to  add  to  it  gradually  the  hot  mixture  of  fer- 
rous chloride  and  hydrochloric  acid,;  afterward  more  nitric  acid  as  required ; frothing  is 
avoided  by  this  manipulation.  The  object  of  this  part  of  the  process  is  to  transform  the 
ferrous  into  ferric  chloride ; the  hydrochloric  and  nitric  acids  react  upon  each  other, 
with  the  production  of  chlorine,  which  unites  with  the  ferrous  chloride,  and  of  nitric 
oxide,  which  escapes,  water  being  formed  at  the  same  time,  according  to  the  equation 
6FeCl2  -f-  6HC1  + 2HN03  = 3Fe2Cl6  + 2NO  -f-  4II20.  The  liquid  should  now  be  tested 
for  ferrous  salt  by  placing  a drop  upon  a porcelain  plate  and  adding  a drop  of  freshly- 
dissolved  potassium  ferricyanide.  If  a blue  color  or  precipitate  is  produced  a little  more 
nitric  acid  is  required.  Should  the  brown  color  be  merely  darkened,  the  iron  has  been 
all  oxidized ; but  there  may  be  an  excess  of  nitric  acid,  which  is  detected  by  placing  a 
drop  of  the  liquid  upon  a plate  in  contact  with  a little  ferrous  sulphate  and  adding 
a drop  of  strong  sulphuric  acid.  The  production  of  a black  color  indicates  the  presence 
of  free  nitric  acid,  which  cannot  be  completely  removed  by  boiling,  but  requires  the 
addition  of  a little  hydrochloric  acid  and  the  application  of  heat  to  expel  the  nitric  oxide 
and  chlorine  formed,  until  no  more  nitric  acid  is  shown  by  the  test.  During  this  and  the 


720 


FERRI  CHLORIDUM. 


subsequent  operation  the  use  of  iron  spatulas  or  stirrers  must  be  carefully  avoided  ; only 
porcelain  or  glass  should  be  used. 

On  evaporating  a solution  of  ferric  chloride  to  the  crystallizing-point,  vapors  containing 
hydrochloric  acid  are  given  off  as  soon  as  the  temperature  reaches  a certain  point,  which 
varies  with  the  strength  of  the  solution  : and  if  the  heat  is  raised  to  the  boiling-point 
ferric  chloride  is  mechanically  carried  off.  Should  evaporation  become  necessary,  it 
should  be  done  at  a gentle  heat,  and  it  will  be  found  of  advantage  to  have  a slight  excess 
of  hydrochloric  acid  at  the  beginning  of  the  evaporation.  If  this  acid  has  been  of  the 
official  strength,  about  63  Gm.  of  crystallized  ferric  chloride  will  be  finally  obtained. 
The  crystallization  may  be  effected  by  keeping  the  capsule  in  a warm  place  until  the 
contents  solidify,  but  the  crystals  will  then  be  very  damp  from  enclosed  moisture.  It  is 
far  better  to  follow  the  directions  of  the  Pharmacopoeia,  and  have  the  liquid  of  less 
weight  than  the  expected  salt ; on  cooling,  the  mass  will  now  remain  liquid,  and  is  set 
aside  loosely  covered  to  protect  it  from  dust  and  other  impurities,  and  at  the  same  time 
to  admit  the  atmosphere,  from  which  it  will  attract  moisture  and  gradually  crystallize. 
The  crystals  begin  to  form  as  small  circular  nodules  having  a radiated  appearance,  float- 
ing upon  the  liquid,  and  increasing  in  size  until  the  entire  liquid  forms  a solid  mass, 
which  adheres  firmly  to  the  vessel.  By  warming  it  slightly  the  mass  is  readily  detached, 
and  should  be  at  once  broken  into  pieces  and  put  into  dry,  well-stoppered  bottles. 

Properties. — The  official  ferric  chloride  forms  orange-colored  wart-like  pieces  which 
have  a crystalline  texture  and  a slight  odor  of  hydrochloric  acid,  are  very  deliquescent, 
forming  a thick  red-brown  liquid  having  a density  of  about  1.55,  and  formerly  known  as 
Oleum  martis  per  deliquium.  The  salt  is  readily  and  completely  soluble  in  water  and 
alcohol,  also  in  a mixture  of  1 part  of  ether  and  3 parts  of  alcohol,  yielding  yellowish- 
brown  solutions  of  an  acid  reaction  and  a strongly  styptic  ferruginous  taste.  The  crys- 
tals fuse  at  35.5°  C.  (96°  F.) ; at  a higher  temperature  they  are  decomposed  and  partly 
volatilized.  The  aqueous  solution  shows  the  reactions  of  ferric  salts  and  chlorides  in 
yielding  a red-brown  precipitate  with  ammonia-water  or  other  alkalies,  a blue  one  with 
potassium  ferrocyanide,  and  a white  one,  insoluble  in  nitric  acid,  with  silver  nitrate. 

Tests. — The  complete  solubility  in  the  solvents  mentioned  is  generally  an  indication 
of  the  absence  of  other  metallic  salts.  The  presence  of  nitric  acid  or  of  ferrous  salt  is 
detected  as  described  above.  A moderately  dilute  aqueous  solution  of  the  salt,  to  which 
a small  crystal  of  ferrous  sulphate  has  been  added,  should,  on  the  addition  of  an  equal 
volume  of  strong  sulphuric  acid,  not  show  a black  or  brown-black  color,  and  a few  drops 
of  a similar  solution  should,  on  the  addition  of  a drop  of  freshly-prepared  solution  of 
potassium  ferricyanide,  produce  a pure  brown  color,  without  a tinge  of  green  or  greenish- 
blue.  A solution  of  the  chloride  in  water  should  not  be  precipitated  by  barium  chloride 
(absence  of  sulphate),  and  when  precipitated  by  an  excess  of  ammonia  the  filtrate,  on 
evaporation  to  dryness,  should  leave  only  ammonium  chloride,  which  is  completely  volatil- 
ized at  a red  heat  (absence  of  alkalies,  alkaline  earths,  zinc,  etc.).  Copper,  if  present, 
is  detected  by  the  black  precipitate  formed  in  the  ammoniacal  filtrate  with  hydrogen 
sulphide,  and  zinc  by  the  white  precipitate  formed  under  the  same  condition.  A 1 per 
cent,  solution  of  the  salt  in  distilled  water,  when  heated  to  boiling  in  a test-tube,  should 
remain  clear  (absence  of  oxychloride)  ; the  hot  liquid  is  of  a dark  red-brown  color,  and 
is  precipitated  by  sodium  chloride,  the  precipitate  being  soluble  again  in  pure  water,  but 
on  continuing  the  heat  the  liquid  becomes  permanently  soluble  (Krecke,  Jour.  Prah. 
Chem.,  1871,  iii.  p.  286).  “If  0.56  (0.5588)  Gm.  of  the  salt  be  dissolved  in  a glass- 
stoppered  bottle  (having  a capacity  of  about  100  Cc.),  in  10  Cc.  of  water  and  2 Cc.  of 
hydrochloric  acid,  and,  after  the  addition  of  1 Gm.  of  potassium  iodide,  the  mixture  kept 
for  half  an  hour  at  a temperature  of  40°  Cc.  (104°  F.),  and  then  allowed  to  cool,  it 
should,  after  the  addition  of  a few  drops  of  starch  test-solution,  require  20  Cc.  of  deci- 
normal  sodium  thiosulphate  solution  to  discharge  the  blue  or  greenish  color  of  the  liquid 
(each  Cc.  of  the  volumetric  solution  indicating  1 per  cent,  of  metallic  iron).” — U.  S. 

The  volumetric  determination  of  iron  by  means  of  potassium  iodide  and  sodium  thio- 
sulphate depends  upon  the  well-known  reaction  of  the  former  salt  and  ferric  chloride, 
whereby  iodine  is  liberated  in  proportion  to  the  chlorine  present  ; thus  Fe2Cl6  + 2KI 
= I2  + 2FeCl2+  2KC1,  the  ferric  salt  being  at  the  same  time  reduced  to  the  ferrous 
state  ; 323.98  parts  of  anhydrous  or  539.5  parts  of  official  ferric  chloride  correspond  to 
253.06  parts  of  iodine,  and  hence  each  cubic  centimeter  of  sodium  thiosulphate  solution 
necessary  to  discharge  the  blue  color  caused  by  the  action  of  iodine  on  the  starch  will 
represent  0.05395  Gm.  of  Fe2Cl6.12H20,  corresponding  to  0.005588  Gm.  of  metallic 
iron.  The  iodine  liberated  is  held,  in  solution  by  an  excess  of  potassium  iodide. 


FERRI  CITRAS. 


721 


Allied  Salt. — Ferrum  chloratum,  P.  G.  1872;  Ferrum  muriaticum  oxydulatum,  Chloridum 
ferrosum. — Ferrous  chloride,  E.;  Protochlorure  de  fer,  Fr. ; Eisenchlorlir,  G.  Formula  FeCl2.2H20. 
Molecular  weight  162.7 — 520  parts  of  hydrochloric  acid  are  allowed  to  act  upon  110  parts  of 
iron  wire,  finally  with  the  application  of  heat,  until  hydrogen  gas  ceases  to  be  given  off,  when 
the  solution  is  rapidly  filtered.  If  now  1 part  of  hydrochloric  acid  and  sufficient  distilled 
water  to  make  the  whole  weigh  1000  parts  are  added,  Liquor  f err  i chlorati  (s.  muriatici  oxi/dulati) 
is  obtained.  The  salt  is  prepared  by  evaporating  the  solution  immediately  after  filtration,  and 
very  rapidly,  until  a pellicle  is  formed,  when  1 part  of  hydrochloric  acid  is  added,  and  the 
evaporation  continued  with  stirring  until  the  mass  becomes  rather  stiff ; the  capsule  is  now 
removed  from  the  fire,  and  the  salt,  after  it  has  solidified,  is  powdered.  It  is  a greenish-white 
powder,  and  dissolves  in  its  own  weight  of  water,  affording  a green  solution,  which,  on  being 
mixed  with  three  times  its  measure  of  alcohol,  yields  no  precipitate  (absence  of  ferrous  sulphate, 
etc.).  Since  ferrous  chloride  is  very  easily  oxidized  on  exposure  to  air,  Hager  recommended  to 
deoxidize  the  recently-prepared  and  powdered  salt  by  exposing  it  in  a thin  layer  for  several 
hours  to  the  direct  sunlight.  It  contains  34.3  per  cent,  of  iron,  43.6  of  chlorine,  and  22.1  of 
water  of  crystallization.  Its  concentrated  aqueous  solution  yields  crystals  containing  411,0 
= 36.2  per  cent.,  which  are  deliquescent  in  moist  air  and  on  exposure  rapidly  turn  yellowish-green. 

Action  and  Uses. — Chloride  of  iron  is  a powerful  astringent  and  haemostatic.  It 
is  chiefly  used  topically  for  stanching  haemorrhage , as  in  epistaxis,  in  haemoptysis  (by 
inhaling  an  atomized  solution),  in  bleeding  from  leech-bites,  from  the  jaw  after  the 
extraction  of  teeth,  from  the  tonsils,  from  ulcers  of  the  neck  of  the  uterus,  from  the 
umbilical  cord,  from  the  uterus  during  and  subsequent  to  abortion,  from  fungous  tumors 
of  various  parts,  etc.  It  is  reported  to  have  acted  favorably  as  a caustic  upon  lupoid  or 
scrofulous  ulcers  when  dissolved  in  2 parts  of  water,  and  upon  various  chronic  diseases  of 
the  skin  when  applied  in  an  ointment  (1 : 20).  St.  Germain  claims  to  have  cured  vascular 
nsevi  by  injecting  them  once  a week  with  a single  drop  of  a solution  made  with  5 parts 
of  “perchloride  of  iron,”  3 parts  of  chloride  of  sodium,  and  12  parts  of  distilled  water 
( Practitioner , xxvi.  261).  Chloride  of  iron,  if  kept  in  a bottle,  gradually  deliquesces, 
and  may  then  be  applied  with  a glass  rod  or  brush.  As  a haemostatic  5 parts  of  the 
chloride  may  be  dissolved  in  100  parts  of  distilled  water  and  applied  on  lint. 

(A  more  detailed  account  of  the  action  and  uses  of  this  preparation  will  be  found  in 
the  article  on  Solution  of  Chloride  of  Iron.) 

Ferrous  chloride , it  is  stated  by  German  authorities,  may  be  given  internally  in  doses 
of  from  Gm.  0.06-0.20  (gr.  j-iv). 


FERRI  CITRAS,  TJ.  Ferric  Citrate. 


Ferrum  citricum  oxy  datum,  P.  G. ; Citras  ferricus. — Citrate  of  iron , E.  ; Citrate  de 
sesquioxide  de  fer , Citrate  ferrique , Fr. ; Eisencitrat , Citronensaures  Eisenoxyd , Ferri- 

i citrat , G. 

Formula  Fe2(C6H507)2  (anhydrous).  Molecular  weight  488.84. 

Preparation. — Solution  of  Ferric  Citrate  a convenient  quantity.  Evaporate  the 
solution  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  60°  C.  (140°  F.)  to  the  consistence  of  syrup, 
and  spread  it  on  plates  of  glass,  so  that,  when  dry,  the  salt  may  be  obtained  in  scales. — 
i U.  S. 


At  a higher  temperature  than  indicated  by  the  formula  the  salt  is  slowly  reduced  to 
a ferrous  compound.  When  the  solution  is  concentrated  to  a thick,  syrupy  liquid  it  is 
spread  on  plates,  and  then  dried  in  a dry  or  warm  place.  Failure  in  scaling  is  usually 
due  to  the  incomplete  saturation  of  the  citric  acid  with  ferric  hydroxide,  occasionally  to 
the  presence  of  saline  impurities  retained  by  the  carelessly  washed  hydroxide.  The 
yield  is  from  42  to  44  per  cent. 

The  amount  of  water  of  hydration  varies  considerably,  and  hence  no  definite  formula 
can  be  assigned  to  the  official  scale  salt ; much  confusion  exists  in  the  literature  upon  the 
subject,  some  authors  assigning  as  low  as  3.5  per  cent.,  while  others  claim  18-20  per  cent, 
of  water.  F.  B.  Power  (1891)  found  the  amount  of  water  present  in  scales  of  ferric  citrate, 
carefully  prepared  by  himself,  to  average  31.9  per  cent. ; the  same  author  also  determined 
that  all  water  of  hydration  is  eliminated  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.).  The  variable  proportion 
of  water  may  be  due  to  difference  in  temperature  employed,  subsequent  exposure,  etc. 
The  U.  S.  Ph.  requires  the  presence  of  at  least  16  per  cent,  of  metallic  iron,  which  is 
somewhat  less  than  the  last  Pharmacopoeia  (26  per  cent.  Fe203  = 18.2  per  cent,  metallic 
iron)  ; the  Germ.  Pharm.  requires  19-20  per  cent,  of  iron. 

Properties. — If  of  the  proper  composition,  the  salt  readily  comes  off  the  plates  in  the 
form  of  thin,  transparent,  garnet-red  scales  which  yield  a red-brown  powder,  are  perma- 
nent in  the  air,  inodorous,  and  have  a faint  ferruginous  taste  and  an  acid  reaction.  It  is 
46 


722 


FERRI  ET  AMMO  Nil  C1TRAS. 


insoluble  in  alcohol,  and  dissolves  completely  but  slowly  in  cold  water,  and  easily  in  boil- 
ing water,  but  diminishing  in  solubility  by  age.  Its  solution  is  darkened,  but  not  pre- 
cipitated, by  ammonia.  When  strongly  heated  the  salt  is  decomposed,  emitting  fumes 
having  the  odor  of  burnt  sugar  and  leaving  an  ash  consisting  of  ferric  oxide.  On  being 
boiled  with  an  exqess  of  potassa  solution  the  salt  or  its  solution  yields  a precipitate  of 
ferric  hydroxide,  and  the  filtrate,  on  being  neutralized  with  acetic  acid  and  then  boiled 
with  test-solution  of  calcium  chloride,  gives  a white  granular  precipitate  of  calcium 
citrate.  With  potassium  ferrocyanide  test-solution  it  affords  a bluish-green  color  or  pre- 
cipitate, which  is  increased  and  rendered  dark  blue  by  the  subsequent  addition  of  hydro- 
chloric acid  (difference  from  soluble  citrate  of  iron).  If  heated  with  potassium  hydroxide 
test-solution,  it  affords  a brownish-red  precipitate,  without  evolving  any  vapor  of  am- 
monia. 

Tests. — Ferric  citrate  is  not  liable  to  adulteration.  The  presence  of  tartaric  acid 
would  be  detected  by  acidulating  the  solution  with  a few  drops  of  hydrochloric  acid,  and 
then  adding  some  potassium  acetate,  when  cream  of  tartar  would  be  precipitated.  The 
ash  obtained  by  incinerating  the  salt  should  not  have  an  alkaline  reaction  (absence  of 
fixed  alkalies).  “ If  0.56  (0.5588)  Gm.  of  the  salt  be  dissolved  in  a glass-stoppered 
bottle  (having  a capacity  of  about  100  Cc.)  in  15  Cc.  of  water  and  2 Cc.  of  hydro- 
chloric acid,  with  the  aid  of  a gentle  heat,  and,  after  the  addition  of  1 Gm.  of  potassium 
iodide,  the  mixture  kept  for  half  an  hour  at  a temperature  of  40°  C.  (104°  F.),  and  then 
allowed  to  cool,  it  should,  after  the  addition  of  a few  drops  of  starch  test-solution,  require 
about  16  Cc.  of  decinormal  sodium  thiosulphate  solution,  before  the  blue  or  greenish 
color  of  the  liquid  is  discharged  (each  Cc.  of  the  volumetric  solution  indicating  1 per 
cent,  of  metallic  iron.” — JJ.  S. 

The  object  of  heating  the  ferric  citrate  with  hydrochloric  acid  is  to  convert  the  citrate 
into  chloride,  after  which  the  determination  proceeds  as  explained  under  that  salt. 

Iron  and  ammonium  citrate  is  sometimes  sold  as  soluble  citrate  of  iron ; it  resembles 
the  former  in  appearance  and  behavior,  except  that  it  has  a neutral  reaction,  is  more 
readily  soluble  in  cold  water,  gives  off  the  odor  of  ammonia  when  heated  with  an  excess 
of  potassa  solution,  and  does  not  strike  a blue  color  on  mixing  its  solution  with  potassium 
ferrocyanide  unless  it  be  acidulated  with  hydrochloric  acid. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  is  a mild  preparation,  and  suitable  for  children  and  per- 
sons of  delicate  stomach.  It  should  be  given  in  a watery  solution  and  in  the  dose  of 
Gm.  0.30-1.20  (gr.  v-xx).  Citrate  of  iron,  employed  hypodermically  in  the  treatment 
of  ansemia  and  chlorosis , has  been  proved  by  competent  observers  to  be  as  useless  in 
practice  as  the  notion  of  its  employment  was  physiologically  crude  (Hirschfeld,  Bull, 
de  Therap .,  cxl.  19,  79). 

FERRI  ET  AMMONII  CITRAS,  IT.  S.,  Br. — Iron  and  Ammonium 

Citrate. 

Citras  ammonicoferricus , F.  Cod. ; Ferrum  citricum  ammoniatum,  Ferri  ammonio-citrasy 
Ferro-ammonium  citricum. — Ammonio-ferric  citrate , Ammonio-citrate  of  iron,  Soluble  citrate 
of  iron , E.  ; Citrate  de  fer  et  dammoniaque  (de  fer  ammoniacal),  Citrate  ferrique  amnw- 
niacal , Fr. ; Ferriammoncitrat , Citronensaures  Eisenoxyd- Ammonium  (. Ammoniak ),  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Solution  of  Ferric  Citrate  100  Cc. ; Ammonia-water  40  Cc. 
Mix  the  solution  of  iron  with  the  ammonia-water,  evaporate  the  mixture,  at  a tempera- 
ture not  exceeding  60°  C.  (140°  F.),  to  the  consistence  of  syrup,  and  spread  it  on  plates 
of  glass,  so  that  when  dry  the  salt  may  be  obtained  in  scales.  Keep  the  product  in  well- 
stoppered  bottles  in  a dark  place. — U.  S. 

5 fluidounces  of  solution  of  ferric  citrate  require  the  addition  of  2 fluidounces  of 
ammonia-water. 

Mix  16  fl.  oz.  of  solution  of  ammonia  with  40  oz.  of  distilled  water,  and  to  this  add 
gradually  10  fl.  oz.  of  solution  of  persulphate  of  iron,  previously  diluted  with  40  oz.  of 
distilled  water,  stirring  them  constantly  and  briskly,  and  taking  care  that  the  ammonia 
is,  even  finally,  in  slight  excess,  as  indicated  by  the  odor.  Let  the  mixture  stand  for  two 
hours,  stirring  it  occasionally  ; then  put  it  on  a calico  filter,  and  when  the  liquor  has 
drained  away  wash  the  precipitate  with  distilled  water  until  that  which  passes  through 
the  filter  ceases  to  give  a precipitate  with  barium  chloride.  Dissolve  4 oz.  of  citric  acid 
in  4 oz.  of  distilled  water,  and,  having  applied  the  heat  of  a water-bath,  add  the  ferric 
hydroxide,  previously  well  drained,  and  stir  them  together  until  nearly  the  whole  of  the 
hydroxide  has  dissolved,  or  until  the  citric  acid  is  saturated  (more  ferric  hydroxide  being 


FERRI  ET  AMMON II  SULPHAS. 


723 


added  if  necessary).  Let  the  solution  cool,  add  5?  fl.  oz.  of  solution  of  ammonia,  filter 
through  flannel  (adding  some  distilled  water  if  necessary),  evaporate  to  the  consistency 
of  a syrup,  the  presence  of  a very  slight  excess  of  ammonia  being  maintained,  and  dry 
in  thin  layers  on  flat  porcelain  or  glass  plates  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  37.8°  C. 
(100°  F.).  Remove  the  dry  salt  in  flakes,  and  keep  it  in  a stoppered  bottle. — Br. 

The  second  formula  requires  the  preparation  of  ferric  hydroxide  by  decomposing  ferric 
sulphate  with  ammonia.  It  is  washed,  and  then  dissolved  in  citric  acid  to  obtain  a solu- 
tion of  ferric  citrate,  which,  without  being  filtered,  is  mixed  with  ammonia.  The  turbid 
liquid  at  once  becomes  deeper-colored,  and  is  filtered  and  concentrated.  The  United 
States  Pharmacopoeia,  recognizing  a solution  of  ferric  citrate,  simply  requires  it  to  be 
mixed  with  ammonia  and  concentrated. 

Properties  and  Tests. — The  salt  closely  resembles  ferric  citrate  in  appearance 
and  behavior,  except  as  stated  above.  Impurities,  if  present,  may  be  determined  in  the 
same  manner.  On  ignition  the  salt  yields  about  30  per  cent.,  Br .,  of  ferric  oxide.  Being 
made  from  normal  ferric  citrate  with  the  addition  of  ammonia,  it  is  probably  a mixture 
or  compound  of  ammonio-ferric  citrate  with  ferric  oxycitrate.  As  in  the  case  of  ferric 
citrate,  so  also  here,  the  Pharmacopoeia  requires  the  presence  of  at  least  16  per  cent.,  of 
metallic  iron,  which  is  determined  as  follows : “ If  0.56  (0.5588)  Gm.  of  the  salt  be  dis- 
solved in  a glass-stoppered  bottle  (having  a capacity  of  about  100  Cc.)  in  15  Cc.  of 
water  and  2 Cc.  of  hydrochloric  acid,  and,  after  the  addition  of  1 Gm.  of  potassium 
iodide,  the  mixture  be  kept  for  half  an  hour  at  a temperature  of  40°  C.  (104°  F.),  and 
then  allowed  to  cool,  it  should,  after  the  addition  of  a few  drops  of  starch  test-solution, 
require  about  16  Cc.  of  decinormal  sodium  thiosulphate  solution,  before  the  blue  or 
greenish  color  of  the  liquid  is  discharged  (each  Cc.  of  the  volumetric  solution  indicating 
1 per  cent,  of  metallic  iron).” — U.  S. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  advantages  of  an  iron  salt  containing  ammonia  are  more 
than  contestible  upon  theoretical  grounds,  and  there  is  no  clinical  evidence  of  its  special 
value.  The  addition  to  a solution  of  the  salt  of  a solution  of  citric  acid  causes  effer- 
vescence. The  close  is  Gm.  0.30  (gr.  v).  The  case  is  recorded  of  a man  who,  after 
taking  Gm.  1.30  (gr.  xx)  three  times  a day  of  this  preparation  for  several  weeks,  was 
seized  with  symptoms  of  intestinal  obstruction.  Under  treatment  he  evacuated  a large 
quantity  of  insoluble  sulphide  of  iron  ( Practitioner , xl.  54).  It  has  been  used  hypo- 
dermically with  success  in  chlorosis  (Ther.  Gaz .,  xv.  766). 

FERRI  ET  AMMONE  SULPHAS,  U.  S.— Iron  and  Ammonium  Sul- 

phate. 

Ferrum  sulfuricum  oxydatum  ammoniatum , Ferrurn  ammonio-sulphuricum , Ferri  ammo- 
nio-sulphas , Sidphas  ammonico-ferricus , Ahtmen  ammoniacale  ferricum. — Ammonio-ferric 
sulphate , Ammonio-ferric  alum,  E. ; Sulfate  de  fer  et  cV  ammoviaque,  Sulfate  ferrique  ammo - 
niacal , Alun  de  fer  ammoniacal,  Fr. ; Ferriammonsulfat,  Schwefelsaures  Eisenoxyd- Ammo- 
nium, Ammoniakalischer  Eisenalaun , G. 

Formula  (NH4)2Fe2(S04)4.24H20.  Molecular  weight  962.1. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Solution  of  Ferric  Sulphate  2 pints ; Ammonium  Sulphate 
41  troyounces.  Heat  the  solution  of  ferric  sulphate  to  the  boiling-point,  add  the  ammo- 
nium sulphate,  stirring  until  it  is  dissolved,  and  set  the  liquid  aside  to  crystallize.  Wash 
the  crystals  quickly  with  very  cold  water,  wrap  them  in  bibulous  paper,  and  dry  them  in 
the  open  air. — U.  S.  1870. 

On  dissolving  the  ammonium  sulphate  in  the  liquid  with  the  aid  of  heat  a double  salt 
is  formed  which  crystallizes  on  cooling ; the  mother  liquor  will  yield  another  crop  of 
crystals  on  being  concentrated  to  about  one-half. 

Properties. — This  salt  crystallizes,  like  alum  in  regular  octahedrons,  which  are 
transparent  and  colorless  or  of  a pale  amethyst  or  violet  color,  particularly  if  crystallized 
from  a solution  containing  a little  free  acid.  They  have  the  spec.  grav.  1.712,  are  inodor- 
ous, of  an  acid  and  strongly  astringent  taste,  and  efflorescent  on  exposure  to  air.  The 
salt  suffers  decomposition  when  continually  heated  in  the  water-bath  or  kept  in  the 
melted  state,  even  in  closed  vessels.  On  the  application  of  heat  it  melts,  parts  with  its 
water  of  crystallization,  and  is  further  decomposed,  leaving  ultimately  a light-brown  or 
red-brown  residue.  The  salt  is  insoluble  in  alcohol  and  ether;  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  it 
requires  3 parts,  and  at  the  boiling  temperature  0.8  part,  of  water  for  solution.  The 
aqu  ious  solution  has  an  acid  reaction  and  is  of  a brown-yellow  color,  which  gradually 
changes  to  red,  a basic  salt  being  afterward  deposited,  and  the  decomposition  being  has- 


724 


FEBBI  ET  AMM0N1I  TABTRAS. 


tened  by  continued  boiling  of  the  solution.  This  shows  the  chemical  reactions  of  ferric 
salts,  sulphuric  acid,  and  ammonia,  yielding  a blue  precipitate  with  potassium  ferrocya- 
nide,  a white  one  insoluble  in  hydrochloric  acid  with  barium  chloride,  and  a red-brown 
one  with  potassa  solution,  an  excess  of  which  on  heating  causing  the  evolution  of  vapors 
of  ammonia. 

Tests. — If  the  solution  be  boiled  with  an  excess  of  potassa  solution,  and  the  colorless 
alkaline  filtrate  heated,  with  excess  of  ammonium  chloride,  or  neutralized  with  hydro- 
chloric acid  and  again  rendered  alkaline  by  ammonia,  it  should  not  yield  a white  gelatinous 
precipitate  of  aluminum  hydroxide.  The  Pharmacopoeia  requires  an  amount  of  ferric 
sulphate  corresponding  to  at  least  11.6  per  cent,  of  metallic  iron,  as  shown  by  the  fol- 
lowing test : “ If  0.56  (0.5588)  Gm.  of  the  salt  be  dissolved  in  a glass-stoppered  bottle 
(having  a capacity  of  about  100  Cc.)  in  15  Cc.  of  water  and  2 Cc.  of  hydrochloric  acid 
and,  after  the  addition  of  1 Gm.  of  potassium  iodide,  the  mixture  is  kept  for  half  an 
hour  at  a temperature  of  40°  C.  (104°  F.),  and  then  allowed  to  cool,  it  should,  after  the 
addition  of  a few  drops  of  starch  test  solution,  require  not  less  than  11.6  Cc.  of  deci- 
normal  sodium  thiosulphate  solution  before  the  blue  or  greenish  color  of  the  liquid  is 
discharged  (each  Cc.  of  the  volumetric  solution  indicating  1 per  cent,  of  metallic  iron)/’ — 
U.  S. 

Action  and  Uses. — Like  most  of  the  compounds  of  sulphuric  acid  with  metals, 
this  one  is  astringent,  but  its  astringency  appears  to  be  modified  by  the  ammonia  in  its 
composition.  Crystals  of  the  salt  have  been  applied  within  the  neck  of  the  uterus  in 
various  cases  of  haemorrhage  from  that  organ.  It  may  be  advantageously  used  in 
chronic  mucous  fluxes  of  the  bowels,  vagina,  and  bronchia  when  these  affections  are  pro- 
longed by  general  feebleness  and  a relaxation  of  the  tissues.  Dose,  Gm.  0.30-1.0  (gr. 
v-xv). 

FERRI  ET  AMMONII  TARTRAS,  IT.  S. — Iron  and  Ammonium 

Tartrate. 

Ferri  ammonio-tartras , Ferrum  tartaricum  ammoniatum. — Ammonio-ferric  tartrate , 
Ammonio-tartrate  of  iron , E. ; Tartrate  de  fer  et  d' ammoniaque,  Tartrate  ferrique  ammo- 
niacal , Fr. ) Ferriammonlartrat,  Weinsaures  Eisenoxyd- Ammonium,  G. 

Preparation. — Solution  of  Ferric  Sulphate,  100  Cc. ; Tartaric  Acid,  29  Gm. ; Dis- 
tilled Water,  200  Cc. ; Ammonia-water,  Water,  each  a sufficient  quantity.  To  110  Cc. 
of  ammonia-water,  previously  diluted  with  250  Cc.  of  cold  water,  add,  under  constant 
stirring,  the  solution  of  ferric  sulphate,  previously  diluted  with  1300  Cc.  of  cold  water. 
When  the  precipitate  has  subsided,  draw  off  the  clear,  supernatant  liquid  by  means  of  a 
siphon,  then  mix  the  precipitate  intimately  with  about  1500  Cc.  of  cold  water,  again 
draw  off  the  clear  liquid,  and  repeat  the  washing  in  the  same  manner  until  the  decanted 
liquid  gives  not  more  than  a slight  cloudiness  with  barium  chloride  test-solution.  Then 
bring  the  precipitate  on  a wet  muslin  strainer,  allow  it  to  drain,  and  express  the  water  as 
completely  as  possible.  Dissolve  one-half  of  the  tartaric  acid  in  the  distilled  water, 
neutralize  the  solution  exactly  with  ammonia-water,  then  add  the  other  half  of  the 
tartaric  acid,  and  dissolve  it  by  the  application  of  a gentle  heat.  Now  bring  in  the  moist 
ferric  hydroxide,  in  successive  portions,  stirring  constantly,  and  continuing  the  heat  which 
should  not  exceed  60°  C.  (140°  F.),  until  the  hydroxide  is  dissolved.  Filter  the  solution 
while  hot,  evaporate  it  in  a porcelain  vessel,  at  or  below  the  above-mentioned  tempera- 
ture, to  the  consistence  of  syrup,  and  spread  it  on  plates  of  glass,  so  that,  when  dry,  the 
salt  may  be  obtained  in  scales.  Keep  the  product  in  well-stoppered  bottles,  in  a dark 
place. — U.  S. 

If  5 fluidounces  of  solution  of  ferric  sulphate  be  used,  it  will  require  662  grains  of 
tartaric  acid,  16  fluidounces  of  distilled  water  and  ammonia-water  a sufficient  quantity. 

This  formula  is  essentially  that  suggested  by  Prof.  Procter  (1841).  By  neutralizing 
one-half  of  the  tartaric  acid  with  ammonia-water,  ammonium  tartrate  is  formed,  which  is 
converted  into  the  acid  salt  by  the  addition  of  reserved  tartaric  acid.  On  digesting  this 
with  ferric  hydroxide  a solution  is  obtained,  which,  by  careful  evaporation  and  drying 
upon  plates,  yields  the  official  salt  in  scales. 

Properties. — It  is  in  transparent,  garnet-red,  inodorous  scales  of  a sweetish  and 
slightly  ferruginous  taste,  and  yields  a rust-colored  powder.  The  Pharmacopoeia  permits 
the  salt  if  of  a reddish-brown  color.  In  dry  air  it  is  permanent ; in  a moist  atmosphere 
it  is  hygroscopic,  but  scarcely  deliquescent.  When  heated  it  gives  off  water  and  ammo- 
nia, is  then  charred,  with  the  odor  of  burning  sugar,  and  finally  leaves  a residue  of  ferric 


FERRI  ET  POTASSII  TART  BAS. 


725 


oxide.  The  salt  is  not  soluble  in  alcohol  or  ether,  but  dissolves  slowly  and  freely  in 
glycerin  and  water.  The  latter  solution  is  neutral  to  test-paper,  is  darkened,  but  not 
precipitated  by  ammonia  or  by  cold  solutions  of  fixed  alkalies  or  their  carbonates,  and  is 
not  colored  blue  by  potassium  ferrocyauide  unless  acidulated.  When  acidulated  with 
hydrochloric  acid  and  mixed  with  potassium  acetate,  potassium  bitartrate  is  precipitated. 
When  heated  with  potassa  solution  in  excess,  a red-brown  precipitate  of  ferric  hydroxide 
is  deposited,  ammonia  is  given  off,  and  the  colorless  filtrate,  when  cooled  and  strongly 
acidulated  with  acetic  acid,  yields  a white  crystalline  precipitate  of  potassium  bitartrate. 

Tests. — The  ash  obtained  on  incineration  should  not  have  an  alkaline  reaction  ; this 
test  readily  distinguishes  this  salt  from  the  next.  The  amount  of  iron  present  is  deter- 
mined volumetrically  and  should  correspond  to  about  17  per  cent,  of  metallic  iron,  as 
may  be  seen  from  the  pbarmacopoeial  test:  “If  0.56  (0.5588)  Gm.  of  the  salt  be  dis- 
solved in  a glass-stoppered  bottle  (having  a capacity  of  about  100  Cc.)  in  15  Cc.  of  water 
and  2 Cc.  of  hydrochloric  acid,  and,  after  the  addition  of  1 Gm.  of  potassium  iodide,  the 
mixture  be  kept  for  half  an  hour  at  a temperature  of  40°  C.  (104°  F.),  and  then  allowed 
to  cool,  it  should,  after  the  addition  of  a few  drops  of  starch  test-solution,  require  about 
17  Cc.  of  decinormal  sodium  thiosulphate  solution  before  the  blue  or  greenish  color  of 
the  liquid  is  discharged  (each  Cc.  of  the  volumetric  solution  indicating  1 per  cent,  of 
metallic  iron.” — U.  S. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  only  advantage  of  this  salt  is  the  one  it  shares  with  the 
other  ammonium  salts — viz.  that  of  great  solubility.  In  proportion  to  its  bulk,  like 
them  also,  it  contains  but  little  iron.  Its  dose  is  Gm.  0.60-2.0  (gr.  x-xxx). 

FERRI  ET  POTASSH  TARTRAS,  V.  £.-Iron  and  Potassium 

Tartrate. 

Ferrum  tartaratum , Br. ; Ferri  potassio-tartr  as,  Ferri-Kali  tartaricnm , Ferrum  tartariza- 
tum , Tartras  ferrico-potassicus,  s.  potassio-ferricus,  s.  ferrico-halicus. — Potassio-ferric  tartrate , 
Tartarated  ( tartarized ) iron , Ferro-tartrate  of  potassium.  E. ; Tartrate  de  fer  et  de  potasse, 
Tartrate  ferrico-potassique , Tartre  chalybe , Tartre  martial , Fr. ; Ferrikalitartrat,  Wein- 
saures  Eisenoxyd-Kali , Eisenwein  stein,  G. 

Preparation. — Solution  of  Ferric  Sulphate,  100  Cc. ; Potassium  Bitartrate,  38  Gm. ; 
Distilled  Water,  300  Cc.  ; Ammonia-water,  Water,  each  a sufficient  quantity.  To  110 
Cc.  of  ammonia,  previously  diluted  with  250  Cc.  of  cold  water,  add,  under  constant 
stirring,  the  solution  of  ferric  sulphate,  previously  diluted  with  1300  Cc.  of  cold  water. 
When  the  precipitate  has  subsided,  draw  off  the  clear,  supernatant  liquid  by  means  of  a 
siphon,  then  mix  the  precipitate  intimately  with  about  1500  Cc.  of  cold  water,  again 
draw  off  the  clear  liquid,  and  repeat  the  washing  with  water  in  the  same  manner  until 
the  decanted  liquid  gives  not  more  than  a slight  cloudiness  with  barium  chloride  test- 
solution.  Then  bring  the  precipitate  on  a wet  muslin  strainer,  allow  it  to  drain,  and 
express  the  water  as  completely  as  possible.  Mix  the  potassium  bitartrate,  in  a porcelain 
vessel,  with  the  distilled  water,  heat  the  mixture  on  a water-bath,  to  a temperature  not 
exceeding  60°  C.  (140°  F.),  and  gradually  add  the  moist  ferric  hydroxide,  stirring  con- 
stantly until  it  is  dissolved.  Filter  the  liquid  while  hot,  and  let  the  filtrate  stand  in  a 
cool,  dark  place  for  twenty-four  hours.  Then  stir  it  well  with  a porcelain  or  glass 
spatula,  so  that  the  precipitate  which  has  formed  in  it  may  be  thoroughly  incorporated 
with  the  liquid.  Now  add,  very  cautiously,  just  enough  ammonia-water  to  dissolve  the 
precipitate,  evaporate  the  solution  in  a porcelain  vessel,  at  or  below  the  above-mentioned 
temperature,  to  the  consistence  of  syrup,  and  spread  it  on  plates  of  glass,  so  that,  when 
dry,  the  salt  may  be  obtained  in  scales.  Keep  the  product  in  well-stoppered  bottles,  in 
a dark  place. — IT.  S. 

If  5 fluidounces  of  solution  of  ferric  sulphate  be  used,  it  will  require  867  grains  of 
acid  potassium  tartrate,  15  fluidounces  of  distilled  water,  and  ammonia-water  a sufficient 
quantity. 

The  formula  of  the  British  Pharmacopoeia  is  like  the  above,  the  proportions  used  being 
solution  of  persulphate  of  iron  6 fluidounces,  solution  of  ammonia  11  fluidounces,  and 
acid  potassium  tartrate  2 ounces.  As  in  the  preceding  case,  ferric  hydroxide  is  first 
formed,  and  this  is  used  for  saturating  the  potassium  salt.  A salt  of  the  formula 
K6Fe2(C4H406  '6  is  probably  first  formed,  which  would  yield  somewhat  over  12  per  cent. 
(Dulk  found  12.78  per  cent.)  of  ferric  oxide  ; the  British  Pharmacopoeia  requires  about 
30  ; Soubeiran  and  Capitaine  obtained  30.8  per  cent,  of  ferric  oxide,  and  regarded  the 
salt  as  having  the  composition  K(Fe0)C4H406.  It  is  likely  that  different  basic  com- 


726 


FERRI  ET  Q UININJE  CITRAS. 


pounds  may  be  formed  by  prolonged  digestion.  To  render  the  salt  perfectly  and  readily 
soluble  in  water,  the  U.  S.  P.  now  directs  the  addition  of  a little  ammonia-water  to  the 
filtered  solution  before  evaporation — a course  recommended  for  this  and  analogous  salts 
by  Mr.  G.  H.  C.  Klie  in  1876. 

Properties  and  Tests. — In  its  physical  properties,  as  well  as  in  its  behavior  to 
solvents,  alkalies,  and  potassium  ferrocyanide,  it  resembles  iron  and  ammonium  tartrate, 
from  which  it  differs  in  giving  off  a slight  odor  of  ammonia  when  heated  with  potassa 
solution,  and,  when  incinerated,  in  leaving  ash  which  has  an  alkaline  reaction  to  test- 
paper  and  effervesces  on  the  addition  of  hydrochloric  acid.  As  indicated  by  the  follow- 
ing test,  the  Pharmacopoeia  requires  for  this  compound  an  amount  of  ferric  tartrate  equi- 
valent to  15  per  cent,  of  metallic  iron  : “ If  0.56  (0.5588)  Gm.  of  the  salt  be  dissolved 
in  a glass-stoppered  bottle  (having  a capacity  of  about  100  Cc.),  in  15  Cc.  of  water  and 
2 Cc.  of  hydrochloric  acid,  and,  after  the  addition  of  1 Gm.  of  potassium  iodide,  the 
mixture  be  kept  for  half  an  hour  at  a temperature  of  40°  C.  (104°  F.),  and  then  allowed 
to  cool,  it  should,  after  the  addition  of  a few  drops  of  starch  test-solution,  require  about 
15  Cc.  of  decinormal  sodium  thiosulphate  solution  before  the  blue  or  greenish  color  of 
the  liquid  is  discharged  (each  Cc.  of  the  volumetric  solution  indicating  1 per  cent,  of 
metallic  iron).” — U.  S. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  salt  is  one  of  the  richest  in  iron,  the  most  agreeable  to  the 
taste,  the  least  irritating  to  the  bowels  and  oppressive  to  the  stomach,  and  the  least  apt- 
to  occasion  constipation,  of  all  the  ferruginous  preparations.  Dose , Gm.  0.30-1.20  (gr. 
v-xx)  three  times  a day  before  meals. 

Tartarus  f err  atm , as  above  stated,  is  made  into  balls  which  in  France  are  known  as 
boules  de  Mars  and  boides  de  Nancy , and,  dissolved  in  hot  water,  are  added  to  baths  as  a 
substitute  for  natural  chalybeate  waters.  It  is  also  given  internally  in  carbonated  water, 
sherry  wine,  or  syrup. 

FERRI  ET  QUININE  CITRAS,  U.  S.,  Br.— Iron  and  Quinine 

Citrate. 

Ferri  et  quinise  citras,  Br.  ; Ghininum  ferro-cilricum , P.  G. ; Citras  ferri co-quinicus .. — 
Citrate  de  fer  et  de  quinine , Fr.  ; Ferrichinincitrat , Eisenchinincitrat , Citronsaures  Eisen- 
Chinin,  G. 

Preparation. — Ferric  Citrate,  85  Gm. ; Quinine,  dried  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  to  a 
constant  weight,  12  Gm. ; Citric  Acid,  3 Gm. ; Distilled  Water,  a sufficient  quantity, 
to  make  100  Gm.  Dissolve  the  Ferric  Citrate  in  160  Cc.  of  distilled  water  by  heating 
on  a water-bath  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  60°  C.  (140°  F.).  To  this  solution  add 
the  quinine  and  citric  acid,  previously  triturated  with  20  Cc.  of  distilled  water,  and  stir 
constantly  until  the  quinine  is  dissolved.  Lastly,  evaporate  the  solution,  on  a water-bath, 
at  a temperature  not  exceeding  60°  C.  (140  F.),  to  the  consistence  of  syrup,  and  spread  it 
on  plates  of  glass,  so  that  when  dry,  the  salt  may  be  obtained  in  scales.  Keep  the  pro- 
duct in  well-stoppered  bottles,  in  a dark  place. — U.  S. 

To  make  2 av.  ozs.  of  this  compound  dissolve  744  grains  of  ferric  citrate  in  3£  fluid- 
ounces  of  warm  distilled  water;  to  the  solution  add  105  grains  of  quinine  dried  at  100° 
C.,  and  26  grains  of  citric  acid  previously  triturated  with  3 fluidrachms  of  distilled 
water.  When  the  quinine  has  all  been  dissolved  evaporate  as  directed  above. 

Take  of  solution  of  persulphate  of  iron  A\  fluidounces ; sulphate  of  quinia  1 ounce ; 
diluted  sulphuric  acid  12  fluidrachms ; citric  acid  3 oz.  30  gr. ; solution  of  ammonia,  dis- 
tilled water,  each  a sufficiency.  Mix  8 fluidounces  of  the  solution  of  ammonia  with  2 
pints  of  distilled  water,  and  to  this  add  the  solution  of  persulphate  of  iron,  previously 
diluted  with  2 pints  of  distilled  water,  stirring  them  constantly  and  briskly.  Let  the 
mixture  stand  for  2 hours,  stirring  it  occasionally,  then  put  it  on  a calico  filter,  and  when 
the  liquid  has  drained  away  wash  the  precipitate  with  distilled  water  until  that  which 
passes  through  the  filter  ceases  to  give  a precipitate  with  chloride  of  barium.  Mix  the 
sulphate  of  quinia  with  8 ounces  of  distilled  water,  add  the  diluted  sulphuric  acid,  and 
when  the  salt  is  dissolved  precipitate  the  quinia  with  a slight  excess  of  solution  of 
ammonia.  Collect  the  precipitate  on  a filter  and  wash  it  with  1J  pints  of  distilled  water. 
Dissolve  the  citric  acid  in  5 ounces  of  distilled  water,  and,  having  applied  the  heat  of  a 
water-bath,  add  the  oxide  of  iron  previously  well  drained  ; stir  them  together,  and  when 
the  oxide  has  dissolved  add  the  precipitated  quinia,  continuing  the  agitation  until  this 
also  has  dissolved.  Let  the  solution  cool,  then  add,  in  small  quantities  at  a time,  12  fluid- 
drachms  of  solution  of  ammonia  diluted  with  2 fluidounces  of  distilled  water,  stirring 


FERRI  ET  QUIXINJE  CITRAS. 


727 


the  solution  briskly,  and  allowing  the  quinia,  which  separates  with  each  addition  of 
ammonia,  to  dissolve  before  the  next  addition  is  made.  Filter  the  solution,  evaporate  it 
to  the  consistence  of  a thin  syrup,  and  then  dry  it  in  thin  layers  on  flat  porcelain  or  glass 
plates  at  a temperature  of  100°  F.  Remove  the  dry  salt  in  flakes  and  keep  it  in  a stop- 
pered bottle. — Br. 

The  process  of  the  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia  consists  simply  in  dissolving  quinine  in  solu- 
tion of  ferric  citrate  with  the  aid  of  citric  acid.  The  apparently  complicated  process  of 
the  British  Pharmacopoeia  in  its  first  part  directs  the  preparation  of  ferric  hydroxide  and 
quinine,  which  are  successively  dissolved  in  citric  acid  ; it  corresponds  closely  to  the 
next  following  preparation  in  the  subsequent  addition  of  ammonium  citrate,  by  which  the 
physical  properties  of  the  resulting  scales  are  changed. 

The  corresponding  salt  of  the  German  Pharmacopoeia  again  differs  in  containing,  besides 
quinine,  both  ferric  and  ferrous  salt,  but  no  ammonia  ; it  is  made  by  digesting  powdered 
iron  3 parts  with  citric  acid  6 parts  and  water  500  parts,  adding  afterward  quinine  1 part, 
freshly  precipitated  by  soda  solution  from  1.3  parts  of  quinine  sulphate;  the  solution  is 
then  evaporated  and  scaled. 

Properties. — The  product  of  the  first  process  is  in  transparent,  inodorous  scales 
of  a yellowish  green-brown  to  reddish-brown  color,  varying  according  to  their  thick- 
ness. When  heated  to  near  redness,  like  other  citrates,  it  emits  fumes  having  the 
odor  of  burnt  sugar,  and  it  finally  leaves  a brown  ash  free  from  alkaline  reaction  to  test- 
paper.  Tbe  salt,  according  to  the  U.  S.  P.,  is  slowly  deliquescent  in  damp  air  ; it  dis- 
solves slowly  in  cold,  more  readily  in  hot,  water,  is  slightly  soluble  in  alcohol,  and  insol- 
uble in  ether ; its  solubility  diminishes  by  age.  The  solution  is  slightly  acid  to  test- 
paper,  has  a bitter  and  mildly  chalybeate  taste,  and  yields  with  tannin  a grayish-black 
precipitate  consisting  of  the  mixed  tannates  of  iron  and  quinine.  On  the  addition  of 
ammonia  the  liquid  darkens  in  color,  yields  a 'white  curdy  precipitate  of  quinine,  and  the 
filtrate  gives  a blue  precipitate  with  potassium  ferrocyanide  after  the  addition  of  hydro- 
chloric acid.  The  solution  of  the  salt  on  being  heated  with  excess  of  potassa  solution 
gives  a precipitate  of  ferric  hydroxide  and  quinine,  without  evolving  vapors  of  ammonia, 
and  the  filtrate  after  the  addition  of  calcium  chloride,  again  filtering,  and  then  boiling, 
yields  a white  granular  precipitate  of  calcium  citrate. 

The  product  of  the  British  Pharmacopoeia  corresponds  with  the  behavior  and  tests 
described  above,  except  that  it  is  readily  soluble  in  cold  water  ; it  is  of  a greenish-golden 
yellow  color  and  in  the  air  somewhat  deliquescent. 

Tests. — “Dissolve  1.12  (1.1176)  Gm.  of  iron  and  quinine  citrate  in  a capsule,  with 
the  aid  of  a gentle  heat,  in  20  Cc.  of  water.  Transfer  the  solution,  together  with  the 
rinsings  of  the  capsule,  to  a separating  funnel,  allow  the  liquid  to  become  cold,  then  add 
5 Cc.  of  ammonia  water,  and  10  Cc.  of  chloroform,  and  shake.  Allow  the  liquids  to  sepa- 
rate, remove  the  chloroform  layer,  and  shake  the  residuary  liquid  twice  more  with  10  Cc. 
of  chloroform.  Allow  the  combined  chloroformic  extracts  to  evaporate  spontaneously  in 
a tared  capsule,  and  dry  the  residue  at  a temperature  of  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  to  a constant 
weight.  This  residue  should  weigh  not  less  than  0.1288  Gm.  (corresponding  to  at  least 
11.5  per  cent,  of  dried  quinine),  and  should  correspond  to  the  reactions  and  tests  of 
quinine.  (See  Quinina.)  Heat  the  aqueous  liquid,  from  which  the  quinine  lias  been 
removed  in  the  manner  just  described,  on  a water-bath,  until  the  odor  of  chloroform  and 
ammonia  has  disappeared,  and  allow  it  to  cool.  Then  dilute  it  with  water  to  the  volume 
of  50  Cc.,  transfer  25  Cc.  of  the  liquid  to  a glass-stoppered  bottle  (having  the  capacity 
of  about  100  Cc.),  add  2 Cc.  of  hydrochloric  acid  and  1 Gm.  of  potassium  iodide,  and 
allow  the  mixture  to  stand  for  half  an  hour  at  a temperature  of  40°  C.  (104°  F.).  After 
it  has  been  allowed  to  cool,  and  been  mixed  with  a few  drops  of  starch  test-solution,  it 
should  require  about  14.5  Cc.  of  decinormal  sodium  thiosulphate  solution  before  the  blue 
or  greenish  color  of  the  liquid  is  discharged  (each  Cc.  of  the  volumetric  solution  indicating 
1 per  cent,  of  metallic  iron). — U.  S. 

“ 50  grains  dissolved  in  a fluidounce  of  water  and  treated  with  a slight  excess  of 
ammonia  give  a white  precipitate  which,  when  dissolved  by  chloroform,  and  this  evapor- 
ated, weighs  8 grains  ; the  precipitate  is  almost  entirely  soluble  in  ether,  and  when  burned 
leaves  but  a minute  residue.” — Br.  “ If  the  solution  of  1 Gm.  of  the  salt  in  4 Cc.  of 
water  be  precipitated  with  soda  solution,  and  then  agitated  with  10  parts  of  ether,  the 
ethereal  liquid  on  being  evaporated  should  leave  behind  at  least  0.09  Gm.  of  quinine.  — 
P.  G.  The  salt  contains  16  per  cent.  Br..  12  per  cent.  V.  S.,  10  per  cent.  P.  G.  of 
quinine. 

The  pharmacopoeial  method  prescribed  for  the  determination  of  quinine  and  iron  is 


728 


FERRI  ET  Q UININJE  CITRAS  SOLUBILIS. 


identically  that  proposed  by  Prof.  Power,  and  possesses  the  great  advantage  of  using 
the  same  weighed  sample  for  both  operations;  although  12  per  cent,  of  quinine  is 
directed  in  the  formula,  a little  allowance  for  shortage  is  very  properly  made,  owing  to 
the  variable  quantity  of  water  present.  The  amount  of  anhydrous  ferric  citrate  repre- 
sented by  14.5  per  cent,  of  metallic  iron  is  63.42  per  cent. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  preparation  has  no  demonstrable  advantage  over  an  extem- 
poraneous union  of  its  components  except  in  the  convenience  of  dispensing  it.  5 parts 
of  it  contain  about  1 part  of  quinine,  and  it  may  be  prescribed  in  pill  or  solution,  before 
meals,  in  the  dose  of  about  Gm.  0.30  (gr.  v). 

FERRI  ET  QUININES  CITRAS  SOLUBILIS,  U.  S.— Soluble  iRon 

and  Quinine  Citrate. 

Preparation. — Ferric  Citrate,  85  Gm. ; Quinine,  dried  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  to  a 
constant  weight,  12  Gm. ; Citric  Acid,  3 Gm. ; Ammonia-water,  Distilled  Water,  each 
a sufficient  quantity,  to  make  100  Gm.  Dissolve  the  Ferric  Citrate  in  160  Cc.  of  Distilled 
Water,  by  heating  on  a water-bath,  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  60°  C.  (140°  F.). 
To  this  solution  add  the  Quinine  and  Citric  Acid  previously  triturated  with  20  Cc.  of 
Distilled  Water,  and  stir  constantly  until  the  Quinine  is  dissolved.  Then  add  grad- 
ually, and  with  constant  stirring,  50  Cc.,  or  a sufficient  quantity  of  ammonia-water,  so 
that,  after  the  addition  of  each  portion  of  the  latter,  the  precipitated  quinine  will  be 
redissolved  and  the  liquid  acquire  a greenish-yellow  tint.  Lastly,  evaporate  the  solution 
on  a water-bath,  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  60°  C.  (140°  F.),  to  the  consistence  of 
syrup,  and  spread  it  on  plates  of  glass,  so  that,  when  dry,  the  salt  may  be  obtained  in 
scales.  Keep  the  product  in  well-stoppered  bottles,  in  a dark  place. — U.  S. 

This  preparation  dilfers  from  the  preceding  in  the  addition  of  ammonia-water  prior  to 
evaporation  of  the  liquid,  whereby  the  solubility  of  the  scale  compound  is  vastly  increased  ; 
whenever  iron  and  quinine  citrate  is  to  be  dispensed  in  form  of  solution  the  “ soluble  ” 
should  be  used,  whereas  the  official  salt  without  ammonia  is  to  be  employed  for  pill 
masses,  tablet  form,  etc.,  on  account  of  its  lesser  tendency  4o  absorb  moisture  on  exposure 
to  air. 

Properties  and  Tests. — Soluble  iron  and  quinine  citrate  occurs  in  thin  transpar- 
ent scales  of  a greenish,  golden-yellow  color,  and  is  rapidly  soluble  in  cold  water  ; if  a 
portion  of  the  salt  be  heated  with  potassa  solution,  vapor  of  ammonia  is  evolved.  In  all 
other  respects  it  corresponds  to  the  preceding  compound,  and  should  contain  exactly  the 
same  amount  of  quinine  and  iron  when  assayed  by  the  method  there  prescribed. 

Uses. — This  compound  is  of  the  same  strength  as  Ferri  et  Quininae  Citras,  and  may 
be  used  in  the  same  manner  as  this.  It  is  intended  especially  for  solutions. 

FERRI  ET  STRYCHNINE  CITRAS,  U.  S.— Iron  and  Strychnine 

Citrate. 

Citrate  de  fer  et  de  strychnine , Fr. ; Citronensaures  Eisen- Strychnin,  G. 

Preparation. — Iron  and  Ammonium  Citrate  98  Gm.  ; Strychnine  1 Gm.  ; Citric 
Acid  1 Gm. ; Distilled  Water  120  Cc.  ; to  make  100  Gm.  Dissolve  the  iron  and  ammo- 
nium citrate  in  100  Cc.  of  distilled  water,  and  the  strychnine,  together  with  the  citric 
acid,  in  20  Cc.  of  distilled  water.  Mix  the  two  solutions,  evaporate  the  mixture  by 
means  of  a water-bath,  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  60°  C.  (140°  F.),  to  the  consist- 
ence of  syrup,  and  spread  it  on  plates  of  glass,  so  that  when  dry  the  salt  may  be  obtained 
in  scales.  Keep  the  product  in  well-stoppered  bottles  in  a dark  place. — U.  S. 

A small  quantity  of  this  scale  salt  may  be  prepared  by  dissolving  490  grains  of  iron 
and  ammonium  citrate  in  1J  fluidounces  of  distilled  water,  adding  a solution  of  5 grains 
of  strychnine  and  5 grains  of  citric  acid  in  1 fluidrachm  of  distilled  water,  and  evaporat- 
ing as  directed. 

This  is  simply  a mixture  of  strychnine  citrate  with  ammonio-ferric  citrate,  scaled  in  pre- 
cisely the  same  manner  as  the  other  iron  preparations. 

Properties. — It  closely  resembles  ammonio-citrate  of  iron  in  appearance,  and  has 
the  same  behavior  to  reagents  as  described  above,  but  differs  from  it  in  the  distinctly 
bitter  taste  and  in  the  white  precipitate  produced  by  ammonia,  the  precipitate  being  solu- 
ble in  boiling  alcohol,  from  which,  if  the  solution  is  sufficiently  concentrated,  crystals  will 
be  obtained  giving  the  peculiar  reactions  of  strychnine.  The  alkaloid  will  also  be  obtained 


FERRI  FERROCYANIDUM. 


729 


by  adding  potassa  solution  to  the  salt,  agitating  with  chloroform,  and  evaporating  the 
chloroform  solution. 

Tests. — “ Dissolve  2.24  (2.2352)  Gm.  of  Iron  and  Strychnine  Citrate,  in  a glass  sepa- 
rator, in  15  Cc.  of  water,  add  5 Cc.  of  ammonia  water  and  10  Cc.  of  chloroform,  and  shake. 
Allow  the  liquids  to  separate,  remove  the  chloroform  layer,  and  shake  the  residuary 
liquid  twice  more  with  10  Cc.  of  chloroform.  Allow  the  combined  chloroformic  extracts 
to  evaporate  spontaneously  in  a tared  capsule,  and  dry  the  residue  at  a temperature  of 
100°  C.  (212°  F.)  to  a constant  weight.  This  residue  should  weigh  not  less  than  0.02 
Gm.,  nor  more  than  0.0224  Gm.  (corresponding  to  not  less  than  0.9,  nor  more  than  1 per 
cent,  of  strychnine),  and  should  respond  to  the  reactions  and  tests  of  strychnine.  (See 
Strychnine).  Heat  the  aqueous  liquid,  from  which  the  strychnine  has  been  removed 
in  the  manner  just  described,  on  a water-bath,  until  the  odor  of  chloroform  and  ammonia 
has  disappeared,  and  allow  it  to  cool.  Then  dilute  it  with  water  to  the  volume  of  50  Cc., 
transfer  25  Cc.  of  the  liquid  to  a glass-stoppered  bottle  (having  the  capacity  of  about  100 
Cc.),  add  2 Cc.  of  hydrochloric  acid  and  1 Gm.  of  potassium  iodide,  and  allow  the  mix- 
ture to  stand  for  half  an  hour,  at  a temperature  of  40°  C.  (104°  F.).  After  it  has  been 
allowed  to  cool,  and  been  mixed  with  a few  drops  of  starch  test-solution,  it  should  require 
about  16  Cc.  of  decinormal  sodium  thiosulphate  solution  before  the  blue  or  greenish  color 
of  the  liquid  is  discharged  (each  Cc.  of  the  volumetric  solution  indicating  1 per  cent,  of 
metallic  iron).” — U.  S. 

These  tests,  also  suggested  by  Prof.  Power,  demand  about  1 per  cent,  of  strychnine, 
and  practically  79  per  cent,  of  anhydrous  ferric  citrate,  corresponding  to  16  per  cent,  of 
metallic  iron.  The  limits  of  0.9  and  1.0  per  cent,  are  bas^d  on  the  variability  of  water 
present. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  very  unnecessary  officinal  compound  may  be  prescribed 
in  Roses  of  Gm.  0.05-0.10  (gr.  j-ij),  and  cautiously  increased.  Dr.  Squibb  has  pointed 
out  that  its  solution  is  not  permanent,  and  its  decomposition  may  lead  to  alarming  if  not 
dangerous  effects. 

FERRI  FERROCYANIDUM.— Ferric  Ferrocyanide. 

Ferri  ferrocyanuretum , Ferrum  ferrocyanatum  s.  borussicum , s.  zooticum ),  Ferrocyani - 
dum  ferric  um,  Cycinuretum  ferrroso-ferricum , Coer  uleum  borussicum. — Ferrocyanuret  of  irony 
Prussian  blue,  Williamsons  blue , Paris  blue , E.  ; Ferrocyanure  ( Prussiate , Cyanure ) defer , 
Bleu  de  Prusse  (de  Berlin ),  Fr. ; Ferrocyaneisen,  Berliner  Blau , G. 

Formula,  Fe4(FeCy6)3  = Fe43Fe(CN)6.  Molecular  weight  858.8. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Potassium  Ferrocyanide  9 troyounces ; Solution  of  Ferric 
Sulphate  a pint;  Water  3 pints.  Dissolve  the  potassium  ferrocyanide  in  2 pints  of  the 
water,  and  add  the  solution  gradually  to  the  solution  of  ferric  sulphate  previously  diluted 
with  the  remainder  of  the  water,  stirring  the  mixture  during  the  addition.  Then  filter 
the  liquid,  and  wash  the  precipitate  on  the  filter  with  boiling  water  until  the  washings 
pass  nearly  tasteless.  Lastly,  dry  it  and  rub  it  into  powder. — U.  S.  1870. 

The  process  is  one  of  simple  decomposition,  the  basylous  radicals  exchanging  their 
acids  ; thus,  3K4FeCy6  -f  2Fe2(S04)3  = 6K2S04  + Fe4(FeCy6)3.  The  precipitate  requires 
considerable  washing  to  free  it  from  the  potassium  salt,  and  when  dried  at  a temperature 
of  about  40°  C.  (104°  F.)  or  less  it  retains  18H20  in  combination,  which  it  gradually 
loses  at  a higher  temperature. 

For  uses  in  the  arts  Prussian  blue  is  made  by  precipitating  ferrous  sulphate  with  potas- 
sium ferrocyanide,  and  exposing  the  bluish-white  precipitate  to  the  air  or  treating  it  with 
oxidizing  agents  until  it  has  acquired  the  proper  shade ; the  commoner  varieties  contain 
alumina  and  other  impurities.  The  pigment  was  accidentally  discovered  by  Diesbach,  a 
manufacturer  of  colors  in  Berlin,  and  a notice  of  the  discovery  published  in  1710;  but 
processes  for  preparing  it  were  first  published  by  Woodward,  John  Brown,  and  Stephane 
F.  Geoffroy  (1724—25)  ; most  of  the  noted  chemists  of  the  past  and  of  the  early  part  of 
the  present  century  were  engaged  in  the  investigation  of  its  composition  and  of  that  of 
allied  compounds. 

Properties. — Ferric  ferrocyanide  is  in  hard  dark -blue  masses  which  exhibit  upon 
the  fresh  somewhat  conchoidal  fracture  a reddish  metallic  lustre  and  yield  a deep-blue 
powder.  It  is  inodorous,  tasteless,  insoluble  in  water,  alcohol,  and  dilute  mineral  acids, 
but  dissolves  while  moist  in  solution  of  ammonium  nitrate  with  a violet-blue  color,  and 
yields  with  oxalic  acid,  equal  to  one-sixth  or  upward  of  its  own  weight,  a powder  which 
dissolves  completely  in  water,  and  which  has  been  used  as  wash-blue  and  blue  ink ; the 


730 


FERRI  H Y POPH  OS  PHIS. 


residue  left  on  evaporating  the  solution  to  dryness  has  been  known  as  Bleu  suisse  or 
Swiss  blue.  Commercial  Prussian  blue  should  be  previously  purified  for  this  purpose  by 
treating  it  with  dilute  hydrochloric  or  sulphuric  acid  and  washing  it  with  water.  Con- 
centrated mineral  acids  decomposs  it,  with  the  liberation  of  hydrocyanic  acid ; when 
boiled  with  alkalies  ferric  hydroxide  is  separated  and  alkali  ferrocyanide  dissolved  ; and 
when  heated  in  contact  with  air  ammoniacal  vapors  are  given  off  and  a rust-colored  resi- 
due is  left  containing  ferric  oxide  and  potassium  cyanate,  the  latter  resulting  from  potas- 
sium compounds  present  in  the  pigment.  Prussian  blue  is  hygroscopic,  and  contains 
about  28  per  cent,  of  water. 

Impurities  and  Adulterations. — On  boiling  impure  Prussian  blue  with  dilute 
hydrochloric  acid,  the  presence  of  carbonates  will  be  indicated  by  effervescence,  and  the 
potassium  sulphate,  alumina,  and  ferric  hydroxide  will  enter  into  solution.  Ammonia- 
water  added  to  the  solution  will  precipitate  some  of  these  impurities,  and  the  filtrate  may  be 
tested  for  calcium  by  oxalic  acid  or  evaporated  to  dryness  and  ignited,  when  no  residue 
should  be  left.  The  ammonia,  if  any,  is  evolved  when  boiled  with  potassa  solution,  which 
leaves  ferric  hydroxide  behind,  and,  if  alumina  should  have  been  present,  the  clear  liquid 
will  yield  a white  precipitate  on  being  neutralized  with  hydrochloric  acid  and  again  ren- 
dered alkaline  by  ammonia.  On  incinerating  Prussian  blue  and  treating  the  residue  with 
strong  hydrochloric  acid,  barium  sulphate  (heavy  spar)  will  be  left  undissolved,  and  the 
clear  acid  filtrate,  when  diluted  with  water,  will  yield  a black  precipitate  with  hydrogen 
sulphide  should  lead  or  allied  metals  have  been  present. 

Allied  Compounds. — Soluble  Prussian  Blue.  On  adding  a solution  of  a ferric  salt  (anhy- 
drous ferric  chloride  1 part)  to  a solution  of  potassium  ferrocyanide  3 parts  (not  the  reverse), 
keeping  the  latter  in  excess,  the  deep  blue  precipitate  will  become  soluble  in  water  as  soon  as  the 
greater  portion  of  the  foreign  salts  has  been  washed  out;  the  precipitate  is  potassium  ferri-f err  o- 
cyanide  K2Fe2///(Fe//Cy6)2.  A similar  soluble  precipitate  is  obtained  by  adding  a ferrous  salt 
(ferrous  sulphate  11  parts)  to  a solution  of  red  prussiate  of  potash  (potassium  ferricyanide),  but 
it  has  the  composition  K2F2//(Fe2///Cy12),  and  is  potassium  ferro-ferricyanide. 

Turnbull’s  Blue,  Ferricyanidum  ferrosum,  Fe3(Fe2Cy12),  was  discovered  by  Gmelin  (1827), 
and  is  obtained  by  adding  potassium  ferricyanide  to  the  solution  of  a ferrous  salt. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  daily  dose  of  this  preparation  is  stated  by  certain  author- 
ities to  be  from  Gm.  2-20  (3ss-v).  It  is  probably  inert.  To  this  statement,  contained 
in  the  first  edition  of  the  present  work,  may  be  added  the  more  recent  conclusions  of 
Hayem  from  a series  of  careful  and  minute  observations.  Ferrocyanide  of  potassium 
is  valueless  as  a chalybeate,  and  has  no  influence  in  regenerating  the  blood.  Its  iron 
remains  inert,  and  the  elements  of  the  cyanogen  exert  no  poisonous  action.  It  may  be 
taken  for  weeks  and  months  in  the  daily  dose  of  several  Gm.  without  in  the  least  affect- 
ing the  health,  and  in  doses  of  from  2 to  6 Gm.  it  neither  alters  the  quantity  of  the 
urine  nor  the  elimination  of  urea.  A case,  however,  is  recorded  ( Zeitschrift  f Min. 
Med.,  xiv.  515)  in  which  a quantity  of  it  taken  in  milk  produced  severe  gastro-enteric 
symptoms.  Cases  of  anaemia  which,  after  a prolonged  trial  it  failed  entirely  to  benefit, 
were  readily  and  permanently  cured  by  the  soluble  salts  of  iron — the  chloride,  for 
example. 

FERRI  HYPOPHOSPHIS,  TJ.  Ferric  Hypophosphite. 

Ferrum  hyp  op  h osp  horosum , Hypophosphis  ferricus. — Hypophosphite  of  iron , E. ; Hypo- 
phosphite  de  fer.  Fr.  ; Fe rrihyp op hosph it , Unterphosphorigsaures  Eisenoxyd , G. 

Formula  Fe2(PH202)6.  Molecular  weight  501.04. 

Preparation. — A solution  of  sodium  hypophosphite  which  is  free  from  carbonate 
is  added  to  a solution  of  ferric  chloride  or  ferric  sulphate,  which  should  not  contain  any 
excess  of  acid.  The  precipitate  is  well  washed  with  distilled  water  and  dried  with  a 
moderate  heat.  It  is  a process  of  double  decomposition  between  the  sodium  and  ferric 
salts.  The  presence  of  carbonate  in  the  former  would  contaminate  the  salt  with  a cor- 
responding quantity  of  ferric  hydroxide,  while  an  excess  of  acid  would  occasion  loss  by 
preventing  the  ferric  hyphosphite  from  being  precipitated. 

By  this  method  a slight  loss  is  occasioned  by  the  partial  solubility  of  the  freshly  pre- 
cipitated ferric  hypophosphite  in  water.  Moerk  suggests  to  prepare  the  salt  as  follows : 
Place  30  Gm.  of  calcium  hypophosphite  into  a flask  with  100  Cc.  of  distilled  water;  add 
gradually  49.5  Gm.  of  ferric  chloride  solution,  shaking  well  after  each  addition.  Allow 
the  mixture  to  stand  three  days  with  frequent  agitation,  then  filter  and  wash  until  all 
calcium  has  been  removed.  This  is  said  to  yield  about  93  per  cent,  of  a very  pure  salt, 
based  upon  the  quantity  of  ferric  chloride  used. 


FEBRI  10 DID  UM  SACCHARA  TUM. 


731 


Properties. — It  is  a white  or  grayish  powder,  inodorous,  nearly  tasteless,  slightly 
soluble  in  water,  more  so  in  hypophospliorous  acid,  but  freely  so  in  hydrochloric  acid. 
Like  other  insoluble  or  sparingly-soluble  ferric  salts,  it  dissolves  in  solutions  of  an  alkali 
citrate,  with  a green  color.  It  is  readily  oxidized  by  nitric  acid  and  other  oxidizing 
agents,  and  when  heated  in  the  dry  state  evolves  inflammable  hydrogen  phosphide  and 
leaves  ferric  pyrophosphate.  Its  formula  is  given  above  ; it  contains,  in  addition,  water  of 
hydration,  the  amount  of  which  has  not  been  determined. 

Tests. — “ If  to  0.5  Gm.  of  the  salt  5 Cc.  of  acetic  acid  be  added,  no  effervesence 
should  occur  (absence  of  carbonate),  and  if  the  mixture  be  subsequently  heated  to  boil- 
ing, the  filtrate  upon  cooling,  should  afford  no  turbidity  with  ammonium  oxalate  test- 
solution  (absence  of  calcium).  If  0.5  Gm.  of  the  salt  be  boiled  with  10  Cc.  of  sodium 
hydroxide  test-solution,  a reddish-brown  precipitate  is  produced,  and  if  to  the  filtrate  from 
the  latter  slightly  acidulated  with  hydrochloric  acid,  magnesia  mixture  be  added,  and 
subsequently  an  excess  of  ammonia  water,  no  crystalline  precipitate  should  be  produced 
(absence  of  phosphate).  If  0.1  Gm.  of  ferric  hypophosphite  be  mixed  with  10  Cc.  of 
water,  then  10  Cc.  of  diluted  sulphuric  acid  and  50  Cc.  of  decinormal  potassium  perman- 
ganate solution  added,  and  the  mixture  boiled  for  fifteen  minutes,  it  should  require  not 
more  than  3 Cc.  of  decinormal  oxalic  acid  solution  to  discharge  the  red  color  (correspond- 
ing to  at  least  98.1  per  cent,  of  the  pure  salt).” — U.  S. 

The  volumetric  determination  of  ferric  hypophosphite  depends  upon  the  oxidation  of 
hypophosphorous  into  phosphoric  acid  by  means  of  potassium  permanganate ; in  this 
case  some  free  phosphoric  acid  is  formed  along  with  the  ferric  phosphate ; thus  5Fe2 
(PH.A)6  + 12K2Mn208  -f  36H2S04  - 5Fe2(P04)2  + 20H3PO4  + 12K2S04  + 24 
MnS04  + 36H20.  2505.2  parts  of  ferric  hypophosphite  requiring  3784.08  parts  of 

potassium  permanganate  for  complete  oxidation,  each  tCc.  of  decinormal  KMn04  solu- 
tion must  represent  0.0020877  Gm.  of  Fe2(PH202)6,  and  hence  50 — 3 — 47,  multiplied 
by  this  factor,  will  show  0.0981219  or  98.1  per  cent,  in  the  above  test. 

Action  and  Uses.— It  is  theoretically  assumed  to  possess  virtues  belonging  to 
phosphorus  as  well  as  iron — an  assumption  which  nothing  justifies.  It  may  be  given  in 
doses  of  from  Gm.  0.30-0.60  (gr.  v-x). 

FERRI  IODIDUM  SACCHARATUM,  77.  S.— Saccharated  Ferrous 

Iodide. 

Ferrum  iodatum  saccharatum. — Saccharated  iodide  of  iron , E. ; Saccharure  d'wdure  de 
fer , Fr. ; Eisenjodiirzucker,  G. 

Formula  of  ferrous  iodide  Fel2.  Molecular  weight  308.94. 

Preparation. — Iron,  in  the  form  of  fine  bright  wire,  and  cut  into  small  pieces,  6 Gm. ; 
Reduced  Iron,  1 Gm. ; Iodine,  17  Gm. ; Distilled  Water,  Sugar  of  Milk,  recently  dried,  each 
a sufficient  quantity  to  make  100  Gm.  Mix  the  iron  wire, iodine,  and  20  Cc.  of  distilled  water 
in  a flask  of  thin  glass,  shake  the  mixture  occasionally,  until  the  reaction  ceases  and  the 
solution  has  acquired  a green  color  and  lost  the  smell  of  iodine ; then  filter  it  through  a 
small  wetted  filter  into  a porcelain  capsule  containing  40  Gm.  of  sugar  of  milk.  Rinse 
the  flask  and  iron  wire  with  a little  distilled  water,  pass  the  rinsings  through  the  filter 
into  the  capsule,  and  evaporate,  on  a water-bath,  with  frequent  stirring,  until  a dry  mass 
remains.  Transfer  this  quickly  to  a heated  iron  mortar,  reduce  it  to  powder,  and  mix  it 
intimately,  by  trituration,  with  the  reduced  iron  and  enough  sugar  of  milk  to  make  the 
final  product  weigh  100  Gm.  Transfer  the  powder  at  once  to  small  and  perfectly  dry 
bottles,  which  should  be  securely  stoppered  and  kept  in  a cool  and  dark  place. — U.  S. 

If  the  above  quantities  be  multiplied  by  17£  and  then  reckoned  as  grains,  the  result- 
ing finished  product  will  weigh  4 av.  ozs. 

This  is  the  process  of  the  German  Pharmacopoeia  of  1872,  modified  only  by  slightly 
increasing  the  iodine,  so  that  the  finished  preparation  may  contain  fully  20  per  cent,  of 
ferrous  iodide.  Iodine  unites  with  the  iron  in  the  presence  of  water,  heat  being  pro- 
duced, which  may  increase  to  such  an  extent  that  some  iodine  may  be  volatilized  ; should 
violet-colored  vapors  make  their  appearance  in  the  flask,  the  violence  of  the  reaction 
should  be  checked  by  immersing  the  flask  in  cold  water ; toward  the  end  of  the  process 
it  may,  on  the  other  hand,  become  necessary  to  hasten  the  combination  of  the  last  por- 
tions of  iodine  by  the  application  of  a gentle  heat.  Instead  of  bringing  the  whole  of  the 
iodine  in  contact  with  the  whole  amount  of  iron,  as  directed  in  the  formula,  it  is  better 
to  add  one  of  these  in  several  portions,  waiting  after  each  addition  until  the  reaction  has 
nearly  ceased.  In  warm  weather  especially  it  will  be  preferable,  in  order  to  avoid  loss 


732 


FERRI  10 DID UM  SACCHARATUM. 


by  evaporation,  to  introduce  the  iodine  and  water  into  the  flask  and  to  add  the  iron  grad- 
ually. The  green  liquid,  being  a very  concentrated  solution  of  ferrous  iodide,  should  be 
passed  through  a small  wetted  filter,  and  the  flask  and  filter  should  be  well  rinsed  twice 
with  a small  quantity  of  distilled  water  to  recover  all  the  iodide.  17  parts  of  iodine 
will  yield  20.75  parts  of  ferrous  iodide  if  all  loss  has  been  avoided. 

Properties. — Saccharated  ferrous  iodide  is  a yellowish  or  grayish-white  powder,  very 
hygroscopic,  odorless,  having  a sweetish  ferruginous  taste  and  a slightly  acid  reaction. 
It  is  soluble  in  7 parts  of  water  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  forming  an  almost  clear  and  nearly 
colorless  solution,  and  is  only  partially  soluble  in  alcohol.  When  strongly  heated  the 
compound  swells  up,  chars,  evolves  the  odor  of  iodine  and  of  burnt  sugar,  and  on  ignition 
leaves  a residue  which  should  yield  nothing  soluble  to  water  (absence  of  alkali  salts). 
The  aqueous  solution  yields  a light-greenish  precipitate  with  ammonia,  and  a blue  precipi- 
tate with  test-solution  of  potassium  ferricyanide.  If  mixed  with  some  gelatinized  starch, 
and  afterward  with  a little  chlorine-water,  the  solution  assumes  a blue  color. 

Tests. — The  aqueous  solution  of  saccharated  ferrous  iodide  should  not  be  colored  blue 
on  the  addition  of  gelatinized  starch  (absence  of  free  iodine). 

“ If  1.55  (1.5447)  Gm.  of  saccharated  ferrous  iodide  be  dissolved  in  about  20  Cc.  of 
water,  in  a small  flask,  and  the  liquid  well  mixed  with  22  Cc.  of  decinormal  silver  nitrate 
solution,  it  should,  after  the  addition  of  5 Cc.  each  of  diluted  nitric  acid  and  of  ferric 
ammonium  sulphate  test-solution,  require  not  more  than  2 Cc.  of  decinormal  potassium 
sulphocyanate  solution  to  produce  a reddish-brown  tint  which  does  not  completely  disap- 
pear on  shaking  (corresponding  to  about  20  per  cent,  of  pure  ferrous  iodide).” — U.  S. 

This  volumetric  test  depends  upon  the  formation  of  insoluble  silver  iodide,  and,  as  it 
is  somewhat  difficult  to  determine  exactly  when  the  precipitate  ceases  to  form,  the  Phar- 
macopoeia purposely  directs  the  addition  of  an  excess  of  silver  nitrate  solution,  which 
excess  is  to  be  ascertained  by  residual  titration  with  potassium  sulphocyanate  solution, 
ammonio-ferric  alum  being  used  as  an  indicator ; the  reddish-brown  tint  produced  by 
formation  of  ferric  sulphocyanate  will  not  be  permanent  until  all  the  silver  nitrate  in 
excess  has  been  changed  to  sulphocyanate.  Each  Cc.  of  decinormal  AgN03  solution  cor- 
responds to  0.015447  Gm.  of  ferrous  iodide. 

Allied  Preparations. — Ferri  iodidum,  Ferrum  iodatum,  P.  G. ; Ioduretum  ferrosum. — Fer- 
rous iodide,  Iodide  of  iron,  E.  ; Iodure  de  fer,  Fr. ; Eisenjodiir,  G. — This  unstable  salt  has  been 
dismissed  from  the  Pharmacopoeia.  It  may  be  made  by  uniting  iodine  and  iron  in  the  propor- 
tion given  above  and  in  the  presence  of  water,  filtering  the  green  solution,  and  evaporating 
it  rapidly  in  a dish  of  polished  iron  until  a drop  of  the  solution  taken  out  on  the  end  of  an  iron 
wire  solidifies  on  cooling.  The  liquid  should  now  be  poured  out  on  a porcelain  dish,  and  as  soon 
as  it  has  solidified  should  be  broken  into  fragments  and  enclosed  in  a well-stopped  bottle.  The 
solution  of  ferrous  iodide,  on  evaporation,  is  readily  oxidized  ; hence  the  direction  to  evaporate 
in  a polished  iron  dish,  which,  however,  cannot  prevent  the  formation  of  oxide,  or  possibly  oxy- 
iodide,  of  iron.  The  residuary  salt  is  therefore  never  completely  soluble  in  water.  The  German 
Pharmacopoeia  orders  the  salt  to  be  prepared  extemporaneously  by  combining  iodine  82  parts  and 
powdered  iron  30  parts  under  distilled  water  100  parts  ; the  filtered  liquid  contains  100  parts  of 
ferrous  iodide,  and  is  used  in  this  condition  for  liquid  preparations,  or  if  required  in  pills  the 
solution  is  rapidly  evaporated  in  an  iron  dish. 

According  to  De  Luca,  pure  anhydrous  ferrous  iodide  is  white,  and  in  the  presence  of  moisture 
greenish.  The  Pharmacopoeias  require  it  to  be  green  with  a tinge  of  brown.  By  the  above 
process,  however,  it  is  usually  obtained  as  a steel-gray  laminated  mass,  with  a metallic  lustre, 
fusing  at  about  177°  C.  (350°  F.)  and  evolving  vapors  of  iodine.  It  is  deliquescent  when  pure, 
dissolves  readily  with  a green  color  in  water,  also  in  glycerin  and  alcohol,  the  solution  yielding 
a dark-blue  precipitate  with  potassium  ferricyanide,  and  separating  iodine  on  the  addition  of  a 
little  chlorine-water,  when  on  the  further  addition  of  mucilage  of  starch  a blue  color  will  be 
produced. 

Solid  ferrous  iodide  is  at  best  a very  unsatisfactory  medicinal  preparation,  owing  to  the  una- 
voidable changes  occurring  under  ordinary  circumstances.  It  would  be  better,  by  far,  when 
ferrous  iodide  is  desired  in  a solid  form,  to  evaporate  a definite  quantity  of  the  official  syrup, 
and  convert  that  at  once  into  pills  by  the  addition  of  some  vegetable  powder.  The  saccharated 
ferrous  iodide  is  to  a certain  extent,  though  not  indefinitely,  protected  by  the  sugar. 

Action  and  Uses. — They  are  sufficiently  described  under  Syrupus  Ferri  Iodipi> 
which,  with  Pilulse  ferri  iodidi , is  the  only  other  officinal  preparation  ( U S.  P.)  that 
contains  iodine  and  iron  in  combination.  The  dose  of  this  iodide  may  be  stated  at  Gm. 
0.30  (gr.  v)  three  times  a day.  It  should  be  prescribed  in  pilular  form  and  taken  after 
meals. 


FERR1  L ACT AS. 


733 


FERRI  LACTAS,  77.  S, — Ferrous  Lactate. 

Ferrum  lacticum , P.  G. ; Lactas  ferrosus. — Lactate  of  iron , E. ; Lactate  ferreux , Lac- 
tate tie  fer , Fr.  ; Eisenlactat , Milch saures  Fisenoxi/dul , G. 

Formula  Fe(C3H503)2.3H20.  Molecular  weight  287.34. 

Preparation. — A formula  for  the  preparation  of  this  salt  was  given  by  the  U.  S.  P. 
1870  : a fluidounce  of  lactic  acid  diluted  with  a pint  of  distilled  water  is  digested  in  an 
iron  vessel  with  § ounce  of  iron  filings  until  the  action  has  ceased,  when  the  hot  solution 
is  filtered  and  crystallized.  In  this  process  the  iron  unites  directly  with  the  acid,  dis- 
placing the  basylous  hydrogen,  the  solution  of  ferrous  lactate  merely  requiring  to  be 
evaporated  and  crystallized.  It  may  also  be  prepared  from  crystalline  calcium  lactate, 
03(0511503)2.51120,  obtained  in  the  preparation  of  lactic  acid  (see  page  69)  by  dissolving 
31  parts  of  it  in  750  or  800  parts  of  water,  and  mixing  this  with  a solution  of  28  parts 
of  crystallized  ferrous  sulphate ; by  double  decomposition  ferrous  lactate  is  formed  and 
remains  in  solution,  while  most  of  the  calcium  sulphate  is  precipitated,  the  remainder 
being  removed  by  mixing  the  liquid  with  one-tenth  volume  of  alcohol ; the  filtrate  is 
finally  evaporated  and  crystallized.  A similar  process  has  been  adopted  by  the  French 
Codex. 

Both  these  processes  involve  considerable  evaporation,  which  may  be  avoided,  according 
to  Pagenstecher  (1842),  by  mixing  an  alcoholic  solution  of  sodium  lactate  (see  Boutron 
and  Fremy’s  process  for  lactic  acid,  page  69)  with  a freshly-prepared  solution  of  ferrous 
chloride,  when  nearly  the  whole  of  the  ferrous  lactate  will  crystallize  out,  and  the  alcohol 
used  may  be  recovered  by  distilling  the  mother-liquor.  Thus  prepared,  the  salt  is  less 
prone  to  oxidation. 

Properties. — Ferrous  lactate  forms  a greenish-white  or  yellowish  crystalline  powder 
or  crusts  consisting  of  small  needle-shaped  crystals  containing  19  per  cent,  of  water  of  crys- 
tallization, and  having  a slight  peculiar  odor,  a sweetish  and  mild  chalybeate  taste,  and  a 
slightly  acid  reaction.  The  dry  salt  is  nearly  permanent  in  dry  air,  but  in  a damp  atmo- 
sphere is  gradually  converted  into  ferric  salt.  It  is  almost  insoluble  in  cold  alcohol,  but 
may  be  crystallized  from  boiling  diluted  alcohol ; it  dissolves  slowly  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.) 
in  40  parts,  U.  $.,  P.  G .,  of  water,  and  in  12  parts  of  boiling  water,  the  solutions  being 
of  a greenish-yellow  color,  and  it  is  freely  soluble  with  a green  color  in  solutions  of 
alkali  citrates.  On  the  application  of  heat  it  turns  brown  and  black,  and  then,  with 
frothing,  emits  white  acid  vapors  having  the  odor  of  burnt  sugar,  and  finally  leaves 
brownish-red  ferric  oxide,  amounting  to  about  27.7  per  cent.  The  aqueous  solution 
yields  a dark-blue  precipitate  with  potassium  ferricyanide,  and  a light-blue  one  with 
potassium  ferrocyanide ; in  contact  with  the  air  it  turns  speedily  brown,  forming  ferric 
lactate,  and  then  yields  at  once  a dark-blue  precipitate  with  potassium  ferrocyanide.  The 
salt,  boiled  for  fifteen  minutes  with  an  excess  of  nitric  acid  diluted  with  an  equal  bulk 
of  water,  yields  on  cooling  white  granules  of  mucic  acid. 

Ferrous  lactate  should  be  kept  in  well-stoppered  bottles. 

Tests. — “A  2-per-cent,  aqueous  solution  of  the  salt  should  not  afford,  with  lead  ace- 
tate test-solution,  or  after  acidulation  with  hydrochloric  acid,  with  hydrogen  sulphide 
test-solution,  more  than  a whitish  opalescence  (limit  or  absence  of  sulphate,  chloride, 
citrate,  tartrate,  malate,  etc.,  and  of  foreign  metals).  The  aqueous  solution,  acidulated 
with  nitric  acid,  should  not  afford  more  than  a slight  opalescence  with  barium  chloride 
test-solution,  or  with  silver  nitrate  test-solution  (limit  of  sulphate  or  chloride).  If  25 
Cc.  of  the  aqueous  solution  (1  in  50)  be  boiled  for  a few  minutes  with  5 Cc.  of  diluted 
sulphuric  acid,  then  an  excess  of  potassium  or  sodium  hydroxide  test-solution  added,  the 
filtrate,  after  the  addition  of  a few  drops  of  alkaline  cupric  tartrate  solution,  and  heated 
to  boiling,  should  not  afford  a red  precipitate  (absence  of  sugar).  If  a portion  of  the 
salt  be  triturated  with  strong  sulphuric  acid,  no  odor  of  butyric  acid,  or  gas  should  be 
evolved  (absence  of  carbonate),  and  the  mixture,  after  standing  for  some  time,  should 
not  assume  a brown  color  (absence  of  sugar,  gum,  or  other  organic  impurities).  If  1 
Gm.  of  the  salt,  contained  in  a porcelain  crucible,  be  moistened  with  nitric  acid,  and  care- 
fully  ignited,  it  should  leave  a residue  of  ferric  oxide  weighing  not  less  than  0.270  nor 
more  than  0.278  Gm.  This  residue  should  not  have  an  alkaline  reaction  to  litmus  paper, 
nor  yield  anything  soluble  to  water  (absence  of  foreign  salts).” — U 8. 

Action  and  Uses. — Lactate  of  iron  has  been  alleged  to  be  more  assimilable  than 
other  ferruginous  salts,  upon  the  ground  that  lactic  acid  is  a normal  secretion  of  the 
stomach.  Admitting  this  ground  to  be  settled,  the  inference  is  illogical.  Clinically,  it 


734 


FERRI  OXIDUM  HYDRATUM. 


may  be  said  that  lactate  of  iron  is  a very  unirritating  salt,  and  that  owing  to  its  feeble 
flavor  it  is  taken  without  repugnance.  The  statements  made  of  its  curative  powers  are 
neither  more  nor  less  than  may  be  made  of  other  mild  salts  of  iron.  It  may  be  given 
in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.06  (1  or  more  grains)  in  pill  or  solution.  Owing  to  its  difficult 
solution  in  water  and  its  liability  to  oxidation,  it  should  not  be  dispensed  in  a liquid 
form,  but  it  may  be  dissolved  in  hot  syrup  to  the  extent  of  about  4 grains  to  the  fluid- 
ounce.  Attempts  have  been  made  to  cure  erectile  tumors  by  injecting  them  with  a solu- 
tion of  “ 8 grains  of  lactate  of  iron  to  a drachm  of  distilled  water.”  The  statement  is 
incorrect,  since  the  salt  requires  48  parts  of  cold  water  to  dissolve  it. 

Albuminate  of  iron  has  been  recommended  upon  the  same  grounds  as  the  lactate.  It 
is  claimed  to  be  very  digestible  and  unirritating,  and  hence  peculiarly  adapted  to  the 
treatment  of  gastric  ulcer  and  irritable  dyspepsia  occurring  in  anaemic  persons,  and  to  the 
derangements  of  the  menopause  under  like  conditions.  The  average, dose  is  stated  as 
about  Gm.  0.06  (gr.  j),  of  which  one  half  is  oxide  of  iron.  Like  the  citrate,  this  prep- 
aration has  been  injected  hypodermically. 

FERRI  OXIDUM  HYDRATUM,  TJ. . S. — Ferric  Hydroxide  (Hydrate), 

Ferri  peroxidum , Hydras  ferricus. — Hydrated  oxide  of  iron  ; Moist  peroxide  of  irony 
E. ; Sesquioxide  ( Peroxyde ) de  fer  hydrate  humide ; Hydrate  de  peroxyde  de  fer  gela- 
tineux,  Fr. ; Feuchtes  Eisenoxydhydrat , G. 

Formula  of  freshly-prepared  ferric  hydroxide  Fe.2(OH)6.  Molecular  weight  213.52. 

Preparation. — Solution  of  Ferric  Sulphate  100  Cc. ; Ammonia-water  110  Cc. ; 
Water  a sufficient  quantity.  To  the  ammonia-water,  previously  diluted  with  250  Cc.  of 
cold  water,  add,  under  constant  stirring,  the  solution  of  ferric  sulphate,  previously  diluted 
with  1000  Cc.  of  cold  water.  As  soon  as  the  precipitate  has  subsided,  draw  off  the  clear 
liquid  by  means  of  a siphon,  then  mix  the  precipitate  intimately  with  about  1000  Cc.  of 
cold  water,  again  draw  off  the  clear  liquid  after  subsidence  of  the  precipitate,  and  repeat 
this  operation,  until  a portion  of  the  decanted  liquid  gives  not  more  than  a slight  cloud- 
iness with  barium  chloride  test-solution.  Finally  transfer  the  precipitate  to  a wet  muslin 
strainer,  and,  after  it  has  drained,  mix  it  with  sufficient  cold  water  to  make  the  mixture 
weigh  250  Gm. 

When  ferric  hydroxide  is  to  be  made  in  haste  for  use  as  an  antidote,  the  washing  may 
be  performed  more  quickly,  though  less  perfectly,  by  bringing  the  precipitate  at  once  on 
a wet  muslin  strainer,  pressing  forcibly  with  the  hands  until  no  more  liquid  passes,  and 
then  adding  enough  water  to  make  the  whole  weight  about  250  Gm. 

Note. — The  ingredients  for  preparing  ferric  hydroxide  as  an  antidote  should  always  be 
kept  on  hand  in  bottles  containing,  respectively,  200  Cc.  of  the  solution  of  ferric  sul- 
phate, and  220  Cc.  of  ammonia-water. — U.  S. 

The  official  ferric  hydroxide  may  also  be  prepared  by  adding  a mixture  of  3J  fluid- 
ounces  of  solution  of  ferric  sulphate  and  2 pints  of  water,  with  constant  stirring,  to  4 
fluidounces  of  ammonia-water  previously  diluted  with  10  fluidounces  of  water. 

Ferric  hydroxide  is  prepared  from  the  solution  of  the  sulphate  by  decomposing  the  salt 
with  ammonia  (£7  S.  P or  with  soda  ( Br . 1867),  the  latter  authority  ordering  4 fluid- 
ounces  of  its  solution  of  persulphate  after  diluting  with  a pint  (Imp.)  of  distilled  water, 
to  be  gradually  poured  into  33  fluidounces  of  soda  solution,  and  to  set  aside  for  2 hours 
before  straining  and  washing  the  precipitate  upon  the  strainer.  In  the  one  case  ammo- 
nium sulphate,  in  the  other  sodium  sulphate,  is  formed — salts  which  are  readily  soluble 
in  water  and  almost  completely  removed  by  washing  and  decantation,  as  directed  above. 
The  brown  ferric  hydroxide  remaining  behind  has  the  formula  Fe2(OH)6.  It  combines 
very  easily  with  weak  acids,  and  for  this  reason  is  an  effectual  antidote  to  arsenic,  which 
forms  with  it  an  insoluble  salt.  It  cannot  be  dried  without  losing  water  and  being  con- 
verted into  oxyhydrate  of  the  formula  Fe202(0H)2,  which  has  a more  decided  reddish  tint 
and  combines  less  readily  with  acids,  and  not  at  all  with  arsenous  acid.  This  change  is 
retarded  by  keeping  the  hydroxide,  as  obtained  by  the  above  process,  mixed  with  water 
in  the  form  of  a magma;  but  after  some  time  it  parts  with  half  its  water  of  hydration, 
forming  the  reddish-brown  ferric  oxyhydrate,  Fe203.Fe2(0H)6,  which  has  lost  the  power 
of  combining  with  weak  acids,  such  as  arsenous  or  acetic  acid.  A similar  effect  may  be 
wholly  or  partly  obtained  during  the  preparation  of  the  hydroxide  if  the  mixture  be 
allowed  to  become  hot.  Its  effectiveness  as  an  antidote  is  due  to  two  conditions — the 
making  of  the  hydroxide  at  the  ordinary , not  at  an  elevated,  temperature,  and  its  recent 
preparation  ; the  magma  with  water  should  be  smooth,  not  granular,  and  should  be  easily 


FERRI  OXIDUM  HYDRA  TUM. 


735 


soluble  in  acetic  acid  without  effervescence;  if  insoluble, it  is  not  effectual  as  an  antidote 
to  arsenic. 

But  since  the  apothecary  does  not  receive  previous  notice  when  the  antidote  will  be 
required,  it  is  best  to  make  it  fresh,  when  needed,  by  a process  which  will  occupy  but  a 
few  minutes.  This  may  be  accomplished  by  at  once  collecting  upon  a strainer  and 
expressing  as  directed  by  the  United  States  Pharmacopoeia  ; the  mixture  will  then  con- 
tain some  ammonium  sulphate  and  a little  ammonia ; the  latter,  however,  should  be 
scarcely  recognizable  by  the  odor.  The  same  object  is  attained  extemporaneously  by 
substituting  magnesia  for  the  more  caustic  ammonia  or  soda.  (See  Ferri  Oxid.  Hydrat. 
c.  Magn.) 

Other  Forms  of  Ferric  Oxide. — Ferri  peroxidum  hydratum,  Br. ; Ferrum  oxy datum  fuscum, 
Ferrum  hydricum,  Oxydum  ferricum  hydratum,  Ferrugo,  Rubigo. — Hydrous  peroxide  of  iron, 
Ferric  oxyhydrate,  E. : Hydrate  ferrique,  Sesquioxyde  de  fer  hydrate,  Hydrate  de  sesquioxyde  de 
fer  sec,  Fr. ; Eisenoxydhydrat,  Ferrihydrat,  G.  Formula  Fe203.II20  = Fe202(0II)2.  Molecular 
weight  177.60. — It  is  obtained  by  drying  the  moist  ferric  hydroxide  described  above  at  a tempera- 
ture not  exceeding  100°  C.  (212°  F.),  and  is  identical  with  the  ferric  hydroxide  used  by  the  U.  S. 
P.  for  preparing  iron  plaster  and  troches  of  iron.  It  is  of  a dark  red-brown  color,  and  is  nearly 
insoluble  in  acetic  acid,  but  should  dissolve  freely  and  without  effervescence  in  diluted  hydro- 
chloric acid,  and  when  heated  to  dull  redness  should  yield  about  10  per  cent,  of  moisture. 

Ferri  subcarbonas,  U.  S.  1870,  Crocus  martis  aperitivus  (aperiens). — Subcarbonate  of  iron, 
E.  : Safran  de  mars  aperitif,  Fr. ; Eisensafran,  G. — It  is  prepared  by  mixing  solutions  of  8 ounces 
of  ferrous  sulphate  and  9 ounces  of  sodium  carbonate,  washing  thoroughly  with  water,  and  dry- 
ing without  heat.  The  French  Codex  directs  ferrous  sulphate  15  parts  and  sodium  carbonate  18 
parts. 

On  mixing  a solution  of  sodium  carbonate  with  a solution  of  pure  ferrous  sulphate  in  boiled 
water,  a white  precipitate  of  ferrous  carbonate  is  obtained,  which  in  contact  with  the  air  rapidly 
darkens,  changing  in  color  through  various  shades  of  green,  blue,  and  olive  into  brown,  carbon 
dioxide  being  at  the  same  time  given  off.  This  change  of  color  is  accompanied  with  its  conver- 
sion into  ferric  hydroxide,  with  the  exception  of  small  and  variable  proportions  of  ferrous  car- 
bonate, which  escape  oxidation.  This  preparation  must  therefore  be  regarded  as  identical,  or 
nearly  so,  with  ferric  hydroxide. 

It  is  an  amorphous  reddish-brown  powder,  inodorous  and  almost  tasteless,  and  closely  resem- 
bling ferric  hydroxide.  Dilute  hydrochloric  acid  dissolves  it  with  slight  effervescence,  the  yellow 
liquid  yielding  blue  precipitates  with  ferricyanide  (difference  from  pure  ferric  hydroxide)  and 
ferrocyanide  of  potassium,  but  not  with  barium  chloride  (absence  of  sulphates).  If  it  has  been 
dried  at  an  elevated  temperature  it  is  of  a brighter  red  color,  does  not  readily  dissolve  in  warm 
dilute  hydrochloric  acid,  and  consists  mainly  of  the  oxyhydrate,  Fe202.(0II)2.  Dried  at  ordinary 
temperature,  it  consists  chiefly  of  the  oxyhydrate,  Fe203.Fc2(0II)6. 

Ferri  oxydum  rubrum,  Crocus  martis  adstringexs,  Colcotiiar,  Caput  mortuum. — Ferric 
oxide,  E. ; Colcothar,  Safran  de  mars  astringent,  Fr. ; Eisenoxyd,  Rother  Eisensafran,  Englisch- 
Roth,  Todtenkopf,  G. — It  is  obtained  by  heating  to  redness  either  one  of  the  above  hydroxides  or 
by  igniting  ferrous  sulphate  in  contact  with  air,  when  the  salt  is  decomposed,  water  and  sulphuric 
and  sulphurous  acids  being  given  off.  It  is  brown-red,  more  or  less  gritty,  inodorous,  tasteless, 
and  insoluble  in  diluted  acids.  It  is  no  longer  employed  medicinally,  the  ferric  hydroxide  being 
used  instead,  but  it  is  extensively  used  in  the  arts.  It  forms  the  main  constituent  of  iron  paint, 
which  is  sold  as  English  red , Berlin  red  (Minium  de  fer,  Fr. ; Eisenmennige,  6'.),  and  under 
various  other  names,  and  usually  consists  of  ferric  oxide  mixed  with  from  5 to  50  per  cent,  of 
alumina  or  other  insoluble  compound.  When  obtained  as  a fine  powder  by  elutriation  it  is 
known  as  polishing  rouge , terre  douce  de  vitriol , rouge  anglais , Polirroth , and  employed  for  polish- 
ing metals.  The  mineral  hematite  or  red  hematite,  ferret  d'  Espagnc,  sanguine, Blutstein,  is  ferric 
oxide,  while  the  various  brown  hematites  are  different  ferric  hydroxides. 

Ferri  oxidum  magneticum,  Ferrum  oxydatum  magxeticum,  Oxydum  perroso-ferricum. — 
Ferroso-ferric  oxide,  Black  oxide  of  iron,  Magnetic  oxide  of  iron,  E. ; Oxyde  ferroso-ferrique, 
Oxyde  de  fer  noir  (magnetique),  Ethiops  martial,  Fr. ; Magneteisen,  Ferroferrioxyd,  Eisen-oxyd- 
Oxydul,  G.  Formula  Fe30,  — Fe0.Fe203.  Molecular  weight  231.48. — Take  of  solution  of  per- 
sulphate of  iron  5£  fluidounces ; sulphate  of  iron  2 ounces;  solution  of  soda  4 pints;  distilled 
water  a sufficiency.  Dissolve  the  sulphate  of  iron  in  2 pints  of  the  water,  and  add  to  it  the  solu- 
tion of  persulphate  of  iron  ; then  mix  this  with  the  solution  of  soda,  stirring  them  well  together. 
Boil  the  mixture;  let  it  stand  for  two  hours,  stirring  it  occasionally;  then  put  it  on  a calico 
filter,  and  when  the  liquid  has  drained  away,  wash  the  precipitate  with  distilled  water  until  what 
passes  through  the  filter  ceases  to  give  a precipitate  with  chloride  of  barium.  Lastly,  dry  the 
precipitate  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  120°  F. — Br.  1867. 

Magnetic  oxide,  which  is  found  in  Sweden  as  magnetic  iron  ore,  consists  of  1 molecule  each 
of  ferrous  and  ferric  oxides.  When  solutions  of  ferrous  and  ferric  salts  are  mixed  in  molecular 
proportions,  and  then  precipitated  by  a caustic  alkali,  the  same  compound  is  thrown  down  in  the 
form  of  hydroxide.  The  mixture  should  without  delay  be  boiled  for  some  time  until  the  pre- 
cipitate has  become  denser  and  settles  readily.  It  may  then  without  difficulty  be  washed  by 
decantation,  and  finally  upon  the  filter,  without  being  prone  to  oxidation,  as  before  the  boiling. 
It  is  an  inodorous  and  tasteless  brownish-black  powder,  which  is  strongly  attracted  by  the  mag- 


736 


FERRI  OXIDUM  HYDRATE M. 


net  and  dissolves  without  effervescence  in  warm  hydrochloric  acid  diluted  with  half  its  volume 
of  water.  This  solution  yields  blue  precipitates  with  both  potassium  ferrocyanide  and  ferri- 
cyanide.  When  heated  in  a test-tube  it  gives  off  moisture,  and  when  the  heat  is  continued  in 
contact  with  the  air  red  ferric  oxide  is  left.  Lefort  (1852)  found  magnetic  oxide  of  iron  to  con- 
tain 1 molecule,  or  7.2  per  cent.,  of  water.  According  to  the  British  Pharmacopoeia,  it  contains 
about  20  per  cent.  Its  purity  is  ascertained  by  the  tests  given,  and  by  hydrogen  sulphide  added 
to  the  dilute  solution  in  hydrochloric  acid,  which  should  produce  only  a white  turbidity  from 
separated  sulphur,  but  not  a black  precipitate  (absence  of  copper,  etc.).  Should  it  have  been 
insufficiently  washed,  the  alkali  sulphates  or  chlorides  may  be  detected  in  the  distilled  water 
shaken  with  a portion  of  the  oxide.  Under  the  name  of  JEthiops  martialis  various  pharmaco- 
poeias formerly  recognized  black  ferroso-ferric  oxide,  which  varied  in  composition  according  to 
the  different  methods  of  preparation. 

Ferrum  oxidatum  saccharatum,  P.  G. — Saccharated  oxide  of  iron,  Saccharated  iron,  A'.; 
Saccharate  de  fer,  Saccharure  d’oxyde  de  fer  soluble,  Fr. ; Eisenzucker,  Losliches  Eisenoxyd, 
G. — To  a mixture  of  30  parts  of  solution  of  ferric  chloride  (sp.  gr.  1.281)  and  150  parts  of  water 
add  gradually  and  with  frequent  stirring  a solution  of  26  parts  of  sodium  carbonate  in  150  parts 
of  water  until  precipitation  has  been  completed  ; the  precipitate  is  repeatedly  washed  with  water 
by  decantation  until  all  chlorides  have  been  removed,  then  drained  and  expressed  on  a muslin 
filter.  50  parts  of  powdered  sugar  and  5 parts  of  solution  of  soda  (sp.  gr.  1.70)  are  added  to  the 
residue,  the  mixture  is  heated  to  perfect  solution,  and  then  evaporated  to  dryness  and  powdered ; 
finally  sufficient  powdered  sugar  is  added  to  make  the  weight  of  the  finished  product  100  parts. 

It  is  a reddish-brown  powder,  has  a sweet  and  mild  chalybeate  taste,  and  is  entirely  soluble  in 
distilled  water,  yielding  a deep  reddish-brown  solution  of  a feeble  alkaline  reaction.  It  contains 
3 per  cent,  of  metallic  iron.  The  aqueous  solution  is  not  altered  by  potassium  ferrocyanide, 
except  after  the  addition  of  hydrochloric  acid,  when  it  is  colored  a dingy  green,  then  dark-blue, 
a precipitate  being  slowly  produced. 

Syrupus  ferri  oxydati,  P.  G. — Syrup  of  soluble  ferric  oxide,  E. ; Sirop  d’oxyde  de  fer  solu- 
ble, Sirop  de  saccharate  de  fer,  Fr. ; Eisenzuckersyrup,  G. — Saccharated  oxide  of  iron,  dis- 
tilled water,  and  simple  syrup,  of  each  equal  parts  ; dissolve.  It  is  of  a deep  red-brown  color 
and  contains  1 per  cent,  of  iron. 

Action  and  Uses. — Hydrated  oxide  of  iron  is  chiefly  used  as  an  antidote  to 
arsenic.  But  although  the  chemical  relations  of  an  arsenical  solution  may  favor  the  pre- 
cipitation of  its  arsenic  by  freshly-prepared  hydrated  oxide  of  iron,  there  is  good  reason 
to  suppose  that  in  ordinary  cases  of  arsenical  poisoning  the  greater  part  of  the  poison 
remains  in  the  stomach  undissolved,  and  the  iron,  so  far  as  it  is  useful,  operates  chiefly 
as  a mechanical  antidote  by  enveloping  the  arsenic  and  shielding  the  stomach  until  the 
bulk  of  the  mass  or  an  emetic  causes  its  discharge,  in  the  same  manner  as  the  subcar- 
bonate of  iron  does  in  similar  cases.  This  statement  is  inferred  from  the  fact  that  a 
very  large  excess  of  the  oxide  is  essential  to  its  efficiency. 

The  subcarbonate  of  iron  of  the  earlier  editions  of  the  Pharmacopoeia  seems  to  have  been 
discarded  on  account  of  its  speedily  losing  its  original  character  by  the  action  of  the 
oxygen  of  the  atmosphere.  Whether  or  not  that  change  impairs  its  therapeutic  virtues 
cannot  perhaps  be  so  readily  determined.  At  all  events,  it  is  one  of  the  oldest  pharma- 
ceutical preparations  of  iron,  and  was  intended  to  imitate  and  take  the  place  of  rust  of 
iron,  which  from  time  immemorial  had  been  used  in  medicine.  It  continues  to  be  one 
of  the  most  employed  members  of  its  class,  but  is  ineligible  whenever  it  is  desired  to 
introduce  a large  amount  of  iron  into  the  blood.  It  has  been  used  in  all  forms  of 
anaemia  and  anaemic  chlorosis , and  in  neuralgia , chorea , and  other  nervous  affections 
depending  upon  a deficiency  of  red  corpuscles  in  the  blood.  In  a disease  of  a different 
order,  tetanus , a number  of  cures  have  been  attributed  to  this  medicine,  but  of  late  years 
it  has  been  entirely  supplanted  by  other  means,  and  the  question  of  its  utility  is  unset- 
tled. Subcarbonate  of  iron  in  large  doses,  mixed  with  water,  may  be  resorted  to  when 
the  hydrated  oxide  cannot  be  procured  in  cases  of  poisoning  by  arsenious  acid.  Four 
grave  cases  of  poisoning  by  very  large  doses  of  arsenious  acid  were  treated  in  this 
manner  by  Leale,  and  all  recovered  (Am.  Jour,  of  Med.  Sci .,  Jan.  1880,  p.  80).  The 
dose  of  subcarbonate  of  iron  is  from  Gm.  0.30  (gr.  v)  upward.  In  some  cases  of  neural- 
gia it  has  been  taken  by  the  teaspoonful.  Caution  should  be  exercised,  lest  it  accumu- 
late in  the  bowels  and  obstruct  them.  Powdered  “ subcarbonate  of  iron  ” is  one  of  the 
many  dry  powders  which  have  been  used  in  the  treatment  of  indolent  ulcers. 

For  the  reasons  now  given  the  subcarbonate  has  been  supplanted  by  the  oxide  of  iron, 
protected  by  the  sugar  surrounding  it  from  peroxidation.  It  is  probable  that  from  this 
cause  it  more  readily  combines  with  the  acids  of  the  stomach  and  enters  the  circulation, 
so  that  for  all  the  purposes  above  mentioned  it  is  more  suitable  than  the  old  subcarbonate 
of  iron,  the  case  of  arsenical  poisoning  alone  excepted.  In  that  case  the  subcarbonate 
no  doubt  acts  partly  by  its  mass  in  a mechanical  manner,  and  partly  by  combining  with 


! 

FERRI  OXIDUM  HYDRATUM  CUM  MA  GXESIA .—PIIOSPHA S SOLUBIIJS.  737 


the  arsenious  acid.  The  soluble  saccharated  carbonate  is  one  of  the  most  efficient  of  all 
the  ferruginous  preparations,  and  one  of  the  most  acceptable  to  the  stomach.  It  should 
be  taken  a short  time  before  meals  to  ensure  its  thorough  solution  and  absorption,  and 
in  doses  of  from  Gm.  0.20—1  (gr.  iij—  xv).  Syrup  of  soluble  oxide  of  iron  is  a convenient 
form  for  the  administration  of  iron  to  children,  and  in  teasponful  doses. 

Ferri  oxidum  magneticum  has  been  but  little  used  of  late,  owing  to  the  want  of 
uniformity  in  its  composition.  It  is,  however,  rich  in  iron,  and  may  be  prescribed  in  all 
cases  for  which  the  subcarbonate  is  employed.  The  dose  is  Gm.  0.30-1.30  (gr.  v-xx), 
and  should  be  taken  after  meals. 


FERRI  OXIDUM  HYDRATUM  CUM  MAGNESIA,  U Ferric 
Hydroxide  (Hydrate)  with  Magnesia. 

Antidotum  arsenici. — Arsenic  antidote,  E.  ; Contre-poison.de  Farsenic,  Fr.  ; Gegengift 
des  Arsemks,  G. 

Preparation. — Solution  of  Ferric  Sulphate,  50  Cc. ; Magnesia,  10  Gm. ; Water,  a 
sufficient  quantity.  Mix  the  solution  of  ferric  sulphate  with  100  Cc.  of  water,  and  keep 
the  liquid  in  a Well-stoppered  bottle.  Rub  the  magnesia  with  cold  water  to  a smooth  and 
thin  mixture,  transfer  this  to  a bottle  capable  of  holding  about  1000  Cc.,  and  fill  it  up 
with  water.  When  the  preparation  is  wanted  for  use,  mix  the  two  liquids  by  adding  the 
magnesia  mixture,  and  making  it  thoroughly  homogeneous  by  shaking,  gradually,  to  the 
iron  solution,  and  shake  them  together  until  a homogeneous  mass  results.  Note. — The 
diluted  solution  of  ferric  sulphate,  and  the  mixture  of  magnesia  with  water,  should  always 
be  kept  on  hand,  ready  for  immediate  use. — U.  S. 

Using  wine-measure,  it  will  be  found  convenient  to  keep  on  hand,  in  separate  bottles, 
2 fluidounces  of  ferric  sulphate  solution,  diluted  with  4 fluidounces  of  water,  and  180 
grains  of  magnesia  made  into  a smooth  mixture  with  one-half  pint  of  water;  the  amount 
of  water  to  be  mixed  with  the  magnesia  will  be  found  quite  sufficient. 

The  magnesia  is  used  in  excess,  more  than  is  necessary  for  separating  all  the  ferric 
hydroxide,  and  the  mixture  is  prevented  from  becoming  heated  by  the  previous  diffusion 
of  the  magnesia  in  water.  Neither  filtration  nor  straining  is  requisite,  the  compounds  of 
the  mixture  being  ferric  and  magnesium  hydroxides  and  magnesium  sulphate,  none  of 
which  has  any  caustic  or  otherwise  injurious  effect  nor  forms  a soluble  compound  with 
arsenic.  The  mixture  being  made  only  when  needed,  the  ferric  hydroxide  is  in  that  con- 
dition in  which  it  readily  combines  with  arsenous  acid  and  has  not  become  inert  for  the 
purpose  by  long  keeping. 

Uses. — -If  freshly  made  and  promptly  administered  in  large  doses,  it  is  probable 
that  this  mixture  is  a more  efficient  antidote  to  arsenic  than  either  of  its  ingredients 
would  be  alone. 


FERRI  PHOSPHAS  SOLUBILIS,  V.  S.-  Soluble  Ferric  Phosphate. 

Ferri  Phosphas , U.  S,  1880. — Ferri  et  sodii  citro-phosphas  ; Ftrrum  phosphor intm  cum 
natrio  citrico. — Soluble  phosphate  of  iron , Sodio- ferric  citro-phosphate , E. ; Citro-phos- 
phate  de  fer  et  de  soude , Fr.  ; Natrium ferricitrophosphat,  G. 

Preparation. — Ferric  Citrate,  50  Gin.  ; Sodium  Phosphate,  uneffloresced,  55  Gm. ; 
Distilled  Water,  100  Cc.  Dissolve  the  ferric  citrate  in  the  distilled  water  by  heating  on 
a water-bath.  To  this  solution  add  the  sodium  phosphate,  and  stir  constantly  until  it  is 
dissolved.  Evaporate  the  solution  on  a water-bath,  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  G0° 
C.  (140°  F.),  to  the  consistence  of  thick  syrup,  and  spread  it  on  plates  of  glass,  so  that 
when  dry  the  salt  may  be  obtained  in  scales.  Keep  the  product  in  dark  amber-colored, 
well-stoppered  bottles. — U.  S. 

To  prepare  a small  quantity  of  soluble  ferric  phosphate  1 av.  oz.  of  ferric  citrate  should 
be  dissolved  in  2 fluidounces  of  hot  distilled  water;  to  the  solution  add  481  grains  of 
uneffloresced  sodium  phosphate  and  proceed  as  stated  above. 

The  official  title  of  this  preparation  has  very  appropriately  been  changed  by  addition 
of  the  adjective,  to  distinguish  it  at  once  from  other  commercial  varieties  of  ferric  phos- 
phate which  are  insoluble  in  water.  The  formula  has  also  been  changed,  and  the  pro- 
portion of  the  two  salts  is  based  upon  the  assumption  that  carefully  prepared  ferric 
citratein  scales  contains  10  molecules  of  water,  and  has  the  formula  Fe2(C6H5O7)2,I0H.JO  ; 
it  is  important  that  uneffloresced  sodium  phosphate  be  used,  as  otherwise  the  excessive 
amount  of  the  latter  will  cause  the  scales  to  become  white  on  standing. 


738 


FERRI  PHOSPHAS  SOLUBILIS. 


Properties  and  Tests. — “ Thin,  bright  green,  transparent  scales,  without  odor,  and 
having  an  acidulous,  slightly  saline  taste.  The  salt  is  permanent  in  dry  air  when  excluded 
from  light,  but  becomes  dark  and  discolored  on  exposure  to  light.  Freely  and  completely 
soluble  in  water,  but  insoluble  in  alcohol.  The  aqueous  solution  of  the  salt  has  a slightly 
acid  reaction.  With  potassium  ferrocyanide  test-solution,  the  solution  affords  a blue 
color,  but  does  not  yield  a blue  precipitate,  unless  it  has  been  acidulated  with  hydro- 
chloric acid.  If  1 Gm.  of  the  salt  be  boiled  with  10  Cc.  of  potassium  or  sodium  hydroxide 
test-solution,  a reddish-brown  precipitate  is  produced,  and  if  the  colorless  filtrate  from 
the  latter  be  strongly  acidulated  with  hydrochloric  acid,  then  magnesia  mixture  added, 
and  subsequently  a slight  excess  of  ammonia  water,  an  abundant,  white,  crystalline  pre- 
cipitate is  produced.  If  the  filtrate  from  this  precipitate  be  acidulated  with  acetic  acid, 
and  heated  to  boiling,  no  further  precipitate  should  be  produced  (absence  of  pyrophos- 
phate). If  0.56  (0.5588)  Gm.  of  the  salt  be  dissolved  in  a glass-stoppered  bottle  (having 
a capacity  of  about  100  Cc.)  in  15  Cc.  of  water  and  2 Cc.  of  hydrochloric  acid,  and,  after 
the  addition  of  1 Gm.  of  potassium  iodide,  the  mixture  be  allowed  to  stand  for  half  an 
hour  at  a temperature  of  40°  Cc.  (104°  F.),  and  then  allowed  to  cool  and  mixed  with  a 
few  drops  of  starch  test-solution,  it  should  require  about  12  Cc.  of  decinormal  sodium 
thiosulphate  solution  to  discharge  the  blue  or  greenish  color  of  the  liquid  (each  Cc.  of 
the  volumetric  solution  indicating  1 per  cent,  of  the  metallic  iron/’ — U.  S. 

This  compound  is  required  to  contain  2 per  cent,  more  of  metallic  iron  than  the  next 
following. 

Composition. — The  exact  composition  of  the  soluble  ferric  phosphate  cannot  be 
stated,  and  it  is  possible  that  no  less  than  four  salts  are  present — viz. : sodium  and  ferric 
phosphates  and  sodium  and  ferric  citrates  ; if  the  interchange  of  acid  radicals  were  com- 
plete, the  chemical  formula  might  be  written  as  Fe2(P04).22Na.2HC6H507  -f  Aq. 

True  Phosphates  of  Iron. — Ferri  PHOSPHAS,  Br. — Ferrum  phosphoricum, 
Phosphas  ferroso-ferricus. — Phosphate  of  iron,  Ferroso-ferric  phosphate,  E.  ; Phosphate 
de  fer,  Phosphate  ferroso-ferrique,  Fr.  ; Ferroferriphosphat,  Phosphorsaures  Eisenoxydul- 
Oxyd,  G.  Formula  Fe3(P04)2.FeP04.I2H20.  Dissolve  3 ounces  of  ferrous  sulphate  in  30 
ounces  of  boiling  distilled  water,  and  2f  ounces  of  sodium  phosphate  in  a similar  quan- 
tity of  water.  When  each  solution  has  cooled  to  between  37.8°  and  54.4°  C.  (100°  and 
130°  F.)  add  the  latter  to  the  former,  pouring  in  also  a solution  of  f ounce  of  sodium 
bicarbonate  in  a little  distilled  water.  Mix  thoroughly.  Transfer  the  precipitate  to  a 
calico  filter,  and  wash  it  with  hot  distilled  water  till  the  filtrate  ceases  to  give  a precip- 
itate with  barium  chloride.  Finally,  dry  the  precipitate  at  a temperature  not  exceeding 
48.9°  C.  (120°  F.). — Br. 

The  mineral  vivianite,  which  forms  pale-blue  crystals,  is  mainly  ferrous  phosphate.  On 
bringing  together  solutions  of  ferrous  sulphate  and  sodium  phosphate  a white  precipitate 
of  ferrous  phosphate  is  produced,  which  on  exposure  and  during  the  washing  is  oxidized, 
and  acquires  a more  or  less  blue,  greenish-blue,  or  grayish-blue  color.  During  the  reaction 
a portion  of  the  sulphuric  acid  is  set  free,  and  retains  phosphates  of  iron  in  solution,  to 
obtain  which  sodium  acetate  is  added,  which,  reacting  with  the  free  sulphuric  acid,  forms 
sodium  sulphate  and  free  acetic  acid,  in  which  the  phosphates  of  iron  are  insoluble.  Or 
the  free  acid  may  be  nearly  neutralized  with  sodium  carbonate  or  bicarbonate,  as  directed 
above.  The  washing  of  the  precipitate  must  be  continued  until  the  filtrate  fails  to  give 
a reaction  for  sulphuric  acid. 

Thus  prepared,  it  is  a tasteless  and  inodorous  bluish  powder,  varying  somewhat  in 
shade.  It  is  insoluble  in  water,  but  dissolves  in  hydrochloric  acid,  yielding  a yellow 
solution  in  which  dark  blue  precipitates  are  produced  by  both  potassium  ferro-  and  fer- 
ricyanide.  If  the  acid  solution  is  treated  with  sufficient  tartaric  acid,  and  then  with  an 
excess  of  ammonia,  no  precipitate  is  produced,  but  on  the  addition  of  magnesium  sul- 
phate a white  precipitate  of  ammonio-magnesium  phosphate  falls.  When  the  powder 
is  boiled  with  caustic  soda  the  filtrate,  after  being  neutralized,  yields  a yellow  precipitate 
with  silver  nitrate.  Both  precipitates  indicate  phosphoric  acid.  The  chemical  composi- 
tion varies  to  some  extent,  and  is  influenced  by  its  exposure  to  the  atmosphere  while 
moist,  the  temperature  at  which  it  is  dried,  etc.  The  above  formula  is  that  of  Rammels- 
berg.  Wittstein  obtained  a somewhat  different  result.  The  British  Pharmacopoeia  regards 
it  as  containing  at  least  47  per  cent,  of  ferrous  phosphate  (Fe3(P04)28H20)  ; 3 Gm.  dis- 
solved in  hydrochloric  acid  should  require  for  complete  oxidation  not  less  than  27.9  Cc. 
of  the  volumetric  solution  of  potassium  dichromate,  which  indicates  46.7  per  cent,  of  the 
ferrous  salt. 

The  salt  should  yield  nothing  to  hot  distilled  water  (insufficient  washing),  and  the 


FERRI  PYROPHOSPHAS  SOLUBILIS. 


739 


solution  in  hydrochloric  acid  should  yield  only  a white  turbidity  of  sulphur  with  hydro- 
gen sulphide,  but  not  a black  (copper,  etc.)  or  a yellow  (arsenic)  precipitate.  The  same 
solution,  digested  with  bright  copper,  should  not  form  a dark  deposit  of  arsenic  upon  the 
metal. 

Ferri  phosphas  albus,  Phospiias  ferricus. — Ferric  phosphate,  White  phosphate  of 
iron,  2?.  ; Phosphate  ferrique,  Fr. ; Ferriphosphat,  G.  Fe2(P04).24II20  ; molecular  weight 
373.8. — On  mixing  4 fluidou-nces  of  solution  of  ferric  sulphate  with  a solution  of 
1 ounce  of  sodium  acetate,  and  adding  solution  of  sodium  phosphate,  a white  precipitate 
of  ferric  phosphate  is  obtained.  After  washing  and  drying  at  100°  C.  it  is  a white  or 
yellowish-white  tasteless  powder  having  the  composition  stated,  is  decomposed  by  alkalies, 
and  dissolves  readily  in  dilute  mineral  acids,  in  citric  and  tartaric  acid,  and  in  alkali 
citrates,  the  latter  solutions  having  a green  color.  The  freshly  precipitated  and  washed 
salt,  mixed  with  water  until  the  mixture  contains  1.0  or  1.2  per  cent,  of  ferric  phosphate, 
has  been  used  under  the  name  of  Lac  ferri , milk  of  iron. 

Action  and  Uses. — Owing  to  its  insolubility  in  water  phosphate  of  iron  must  be 
given  in  pill  or  in  powder,  of  which  the  latter  is  preferable,  in  the  dose  of  from  Gm. 
0.30-0.60  (gr.  v-x).  It  is  extremely  doubtful  whether  the  phosphoric  acid  in  its  com- 
position confers  any  special  virtues  upon  it. 

FERRI  PYROPHOSPHAS  SOLUBILIS.  TJ.  ^.-Soluble  Ferric  Pyro- 
phosphate. 

Ferri pyrophosphas,  U.  S.  1880. — Ferri  et  sodii  citro -pyrop hosphas , Ferrum  pyrophos- 
phoricum  cum  sodio  citrico,  Pyrophosphas  ferricus  cum  citrate  sodico. — Pyrophosphate  of 
iron  with  sodium  citrate , Sodio-ferric  citro- pyrophosphate,  E.  ; Citro-pyrophosphate  de  far 
et  de  soude,  Fr.  ; Py rophosphorsaures  Eisenoxyd  mil  Citronensaurem  Natron , G. 

Preparation. — Ferric  Citrate,  50  Gm. ; Sodium  Pyrophosphate,  uneffloresced,  50 
Gm. ; Distilled  Water,  100  Cc.  Dissolve  the  Ferric  Citrate  in  the  Distilled  Water,  by 
heating  on  a water -bath.  To  this  solution  add  the  Sodium  Pyrophosphate,  and  stir  con- 
stantly, until  it  is  dissolved.  Evaporate  the  solution,  on  a water-bath,  at  a temperature 
not  exceeding  60°  C.  (140°  F.),  to  the  consistence  of  thick  syrup,  and  spread  it  on. 
plates  of  glass,  so  that,  when  dry,  the  salt  may  be  obtained  in  scales.  Keep  the  product 
in  dark  amber  colored,  well-stoppered  bottles. — U.  S. 

As  seen  by  the  above  formnla,  ferric  citrate  and  sodium  pyrophosphate  are  used  in  the 
proportion  of  equal  weights ; this  change  from  the  last  Pharmacopoeia  is  based  on  the 
recommendations  of  Lake  and  Power,  in  order  to  ensure  better  scaling  of  the  compound. 
In  view  of  the  insolubility  in  water  of  true  ferric  pyrophosphate,  the  addition  of  the 
word  “ soluble  ” to  the  official  title  was  desirable. 

On  precipitating  a solution  of  sodium  pyrophosphate  by  ferric  sulphate  a white  precip- 
itate of  ferric  pyrophosphate,  Fe4(P.207)3,  is  obtained,  which,  like  other  insoluble  ferric  salts, 
is  readily  soluble  in  alkali  citrates,  forming  green  solutions.  Formerly  ammonium  citrate 
was  used  for  this  purpose,  but  owing  to  the  slow  volatilization  of  the  ammonia,  the  salt 
gradually  became  insoluble. 

Properties  and  Tests. — The  salt  is  obtained  in  inodorous  transparent  apple-green 
scales,  which  are  permanent  in  dry  air  when  excluded  from  the  light,  but  turn  dark  on 
exposure  to  light.  The  salt  has  an  acidulous,  slightly  saline,  and  scarcely  chalybeate 
taste  and  a slightly  acid  reaction,  is  insoluble  in  alcohol,  but  dissolves  freely  in  water 
yielding  a greenish  solution  ; this  gives  with  potassium  ferrocyanide  a blue  color,  but  no 
precipitate  unless  acidulated  with  hydrochloric  acid.  “If  1 Gm.  of  the  salt  be  boiled 
with  lOCc.  of  potassium  or  sodium  hydroxide  test-solution,  a reddish-brown  precipitate 
is  produced,  and,  if  the  colorless  filtrate  from  the  latter  be  strongly  acidulated  with 
hydrochloric  acid,  then  magnesia  mixture  test-solution  added,  and  subsequently  a slight 
excess  of  ammonia  water,  no  precipitate  should  be  produced  (distinction  from  and 
absence  of  ferric  phosphate).  If  the  liquid  be  then  acidulated  with  acetic  acid,  and 
heated  to  boiling,  an  abundant,  white,  flocculent  precipitate  (pyrophosphate)  is  produced. 
If  0.56  (.05588)  Gm.  of  the  salt  be  dissolved  in  a glass-stoppered  bottle  (having  a 
capacity  of  about  100  Cc.)  in  10  Cc.  of  water,  then  10  Cc.  of  hydrochloric  acid,  and 
subsequently  40  Cc.  of  water  added,  and,  after  the  addition  of  1 Gm.  of  potassium  iodide, 
the  mixture  be  allowed  to  stand  for  half  an  hour  at  a temperature  of  40°  C.  (104°  F.), 
and  then  allowed  to  cool,  and  mixed  with  a few  drops  of  starch  test-solution,  it  should 
require  about  10  Cc.  of  decinormal  sodium  thiosulphate  test-solution  to  discharge  the 


740 


FERRI  SULPHAS. 


blue  or  greenish  color  of  the  liquid  (each  Cc.  of  the  volumetric  solution  indicating  1 per 
cent,  of  metallic  iron).” — U.  S. 

Like  the  soluble  ferric  phosphate,  this  preparation  is  evidently  of  a complex  nature, 
and  as  in  all  the  scale  compounds  of  iron  the  amount  ot  water  of  hydration  is  variable. 

Composition. — Regarding  the  chemical  composition  of  this  and  similar  preparations 
two  views  have  been  entertained.  According  to  the  one,  they  are  double  salts  of  ferric 
pyrophosphate  and  alkali  citrate  ; according  to  the  other,  which  has  been  advocated  by 
Rother  (1876),  they  should  be  regarded  as  mixtures  of  alkali-ferric  pyrophosphate,  Fe4- 
(P207)33Na4P207,  with  alkali-ferric  citrate  and  ferric  citrate.  The  formula  given  for  the 
double  pyrophosphate  corresponds  with  that  of  Gladstone  for  sodio-ferric  pyrophosphate, 
for  which  Fleitmann  and  Persoz  (1848)  gave  the  formula  Fe4(P207)3.2Na4P207. 

Allied  Salt — Ferri  et  sodii  pyrophosphas,  Natrium  pyrophosphoricum  ferratum. — Sodio- 
ferric  pyrophosphate,  E. ; Pyrophosphate  de  fer  et  de  soude,  Fr. ; Natrium  terri-pyrophosphat, 
G. — It  is  prepared  hy  adding  to  a solution  of  200  parts  of  sodium  pyrophosphate  in  400  parts  of 
water  so  much  ferric  chloride  in  aqueous  solution  that  a permanent  precipitate  is  not  produced, 
and  mixing  with  the  greenish  liquid  1000  parts  of  alcohol.  A white  amorphous  powder  is  thus 
obtained,  which  according  to  Fleitmann,  contains  7 molecules  (9  per  cent.)  of  water,  and  dis- 
solves slowdy  in  water,  yielding  a greenish  solution  ; this  on  boiling  separates  a white  precipitate, 
acquires  with  ammonia  a red  color,  is  not  precipitated  by  alkali  carbonates,  phosphates,  or 
acetates,  but  with  sodium  chloride  yields  a precipitate  of  the  double  salt,  while  the  addition  of 
ferric  chloride  causes  the  precipitation  of  ferric  pyrophosphate. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  tastelessness,  solubility,  and  richness  in  iron  of  this  salt 
render  it  one  of  the  best  ferruginous  preparations.  Hose , Gm.  0.13-0.30  (gr.  ij-v). 
The  dose  of  pyrophosphate  of  iron  and  sodium  is  stated  at  from  Gm.  0.10-0.30 

(gr-  ■j-v)- 

Salicylate  of  iron  has  had  attributed  to  it  qualities  which  are  unlike  those  of  any 
other  iron  salt,  such  as  “promoting  secretion  and  stimulating  the  skin,”  while  it  “pro- 
motes perspiration,  lowers  the  temperature,  and  reduces  the  pulse.”  It  has  been  recom- 
mended for  diphtheria , aphthae , erysipelas , etc.  (White,  Glasgow  Med.  Jour.,  Aug.  1879). 
It  has  also  been  thought  to  possess  peculiar  advantages  in  infantile  diarrhoea  accompanied 
by  fetid  stools,  which  is  credible,  and  to  cure  acute  articular  rheumatism,  which  is  much 
less  so.  Sosio  claims  that  it  is  the  best  ferruginous  salt  for  hypodermic  use. 

FERRI  SULPHAS,  TI.  S.  Br.— Ferrous  Sulphate. 

Ferrum  sulfuricum , P.  G. ; Sulfas  ferrosus , Ferrum  vitriolatum  purum,  Vitriolum  martis 
purum. — Sulphate  of  iron , E.  ; Sulfate  (. Protosulfate ) de  fer,  Sulfate  ferreux , Fr. ; Ferrosul- 
fat,  Schwefelsaures  Eisenoxydul , G. 

Formula  of  crystallized  or  precipitated  ferrous  sulphate  FeS04.7H20;  molecular  weight 
277.42;  of  exsiccated  ferrous  sulphate,  approximately,  2FeS04-f-3H20 ; mol.  weight 
357.28. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Iron  Wire  4 ounces ; Sulphuric  Acid  4 fluidounces ; Dis- 
tilled Water  1J  pints.  Pour  the  water  on  the  iron  placed  in  a porcelain  dish,  add  the 
sulphuric  acid,  and  when  the  disengagement  of  gas  has  nearly  ceased  boil  for  ten  minutes. 
Filter  now  through  paper,  and  after  the  lapse  of  twenty-four  hours  separate  the  crystals 
which  have  been  deposited  from  the  solution.  Let  these  be  dried  on  filtering-paper 
placed  on  porous  bricks,  and  preserved  in  a stoppered  bottle. — Br. 

Ferrous  sulphate  is  obtained  on  a large  scale  from  alum  shale  and  by  roasting  iron 
pyrites,  exposing  it  to  the  air,  and  exhausting  the  mass  with  water ; also  by  passing 
solutions  of  copper  sulphate  over  scraps  of  iron,  whereby  copper  is  precipitated,  the  iron 
entering  into  solution.  It  is  also  obtained  as  a by-product  in  various  manufactures  where 
sulphuric  acid  is  used  for  the  purpose  of  purifying  certain  products.  The  article  thus 
obtained  is  usually  impure  and  not  fit  for  medicinal  purposes,  except  for  disinfecting,  and 
in  this  impure  state  is  known  in  commerce  as  Copperas , or  green  vitriol  (Ferrum  sul- 
phuricum  crudum,  P.  G.  ; Couperose  verte,  Vitriol  vert,  Fr.  ; Kupferwasser,  Eisenvitriol, 
Griiner  Vitriol,  Gi).  For  medicinal  use  it  should  be  prepared  directly  from  sulphuric 
acid  acting  upon  iron  wire  or  clean  iron  filings  in  the  presence  of  water,  when  hydrogen 
is  evolved,  ferrous  sulphate  remaining  in  solution  ; Fe2-f-2H2S04  yields  2H2-|-2FeS04. 
The  salt  is  prone  to  oxidation  if  its  chemically  neutral  solution  is  evaporated  to  crystalli- 
zation, but  in  the  presence  of  some  free  sulphuric  acid  yields  crystals  which  are  far  more 
permanent.  This  explains  the  necessity  of  having  some  free  sulphuric  acid  in  the  liquid 
from  which  ferrous  sulphate  is  crystallized.  The  crystals  are  collected  upon  a diaphragm, 


FERRI  SULPHAS. 


741 


I washed  rapidly  with  a little  water,  and,  according-  to  the  French  Codex,  with  a little 
I alcohol,  1o  remove  the  mother-liquor,  and  then  dried. 

I Properties. — Ferrous  sulphate  is  in  transparent  bluish-green  monoclinic  prisms,  or 

sometimes  in  rhombic  crystals  having  the  specific  gravity  1.9.  When 
crystallized  from  neutral  solutions  the  salt  is  pale-green,  and  in  the 

I presence  of  ferric  salt  of  deeper,  more  emerald-green,  color.  It  is 
inodorous,  has  a styptic  and  somewhat  saline  taste,  a slight  acid 
| reaction,  melts  by  heat  in  its  water  of  crystallization,  leaving  finally 

I a whitish  residue,  and  when  exposed  to  the  air  effloresces  and  is 
gradually  oxidized  ; the  efflorescence  takes  place  more  rapidly  above 
I 35°  C.  (95°  F.),  and  when  finally  heated  to  115°  C.  (239°  F.)  the 
loss  of  water  of  crystallization  amounts  to  38.84  per  cent.  The  salt 
is  insoluble  in  alcohol  and  ether,  but  dissolves  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  in 
1.8  and  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  in  0.3  parts  of  water,  U.  S.  The 
aqueous  solution  yields  a white  precipitate  insoluble  in  hydrochloric 
acid  with  barium  chloride,  a dark-blue  one  with  potassium  ferri- 
cyanide,  and  a bluish-white  one  with  potassium  ferrocyanide. 

Tests— Impurities  are  rarely  present  if  the  salt  has  been  pre- 
pared from  iron  and  sulphuric  acid.  The  aqueous  solution  treated 
with  hydrogen  sulphide  should  not  give  a blackish  precipitate  (copper),  and  when  completely 
precipitated  by  ammonium  sulphide  the  filtrate,  on  evaporation  and  ignition,  should  not 
leave  more  than  a trace  of  residue  (limit  of  salts  of  the  fixed  alkalies—  V.  S.).  The 
aqueous  solution,  after  being  oxidized  with  nitric  acid  and  supersaturated  with  ammo- 
nia, should  yield  a filtrate  which  is  not  affected  by  hydrogen  sulphide  (zinc,  manganese)  ; 
and  if  the  oxidized  liquid  be  supersaturated  with  potassa  solution,  the  filtrate  neutral- 
ized with  hydrochloric  acid  and  again  supersaturated  with  ammonia,  no  precipitate 
(alumina)  should  occur.  “ If  1.39  (1.3871)  Gm.  of  the  salt  be  dissolved'in  about  25  Cc. 
of  water,  and  the  solution  acidulated  with  sulphuric  acid,  not  less  than  50  Cc.  of  deci- 
normal  potassium  permanganate  solution  should  be  required  to  impart  to  the  liquid  a 
permanent  pink  color  (each  Cc.  of  the  volumetric  solution  indicating  2 per  cent,  of 
crystallized  ferrous  sulphate).” — TJ.  S. 

Each  molecule  of  potassium  permanganate  is  capable  of  converting  10  molecules  of 
ferrous  salt  into  ferric  salt;  thus,  10  FeS04.7H20  + K2Mn208  + 8H2S04  = 5 Fe2(S04)3 
+ K2S04  -f-  2MnS04  + 78H20  ; hence  each  Cc.  permanganate  solution  used  in  the 
I above  test  corresponds  to  0.027742  Gm.  of  ferrous  sulphate  (crystals),  which  is  equal 
to  2 per  cent,  of  the  weight  of  the  sample  used,  for  1.3871  : 0.027742  : : 100  : 2. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Nearly  all  the  official  compounds  of  iron,  with  the  excep- 
tion  of  the  chloride,  iodide,  sulphide,  and  nitrate,  are  prepared  from  the  sulphate,  either 
I directly  or  indirectly. 

Ferri  sulphas  granulatus,  TJ.  S. } Ferri  sulphas  granulata,  Br.  / Ferri  sul- 
phas prjecipitatus,  U.  S.  1880. — Precipitated  or  granulated  ferrous  sulphate  or  sul- 
phate of  iron,  E.;  Sulfate  ferreux  precipite,  Fr. ; Praecipitirtes  Ferrosulfat,  Ferrous 
Sulphate,  100  Gm. ; Distilled  Water,  100  Cc. ; Diluted  Sulphuric  Acid,  5 Cc. ; Alcohol, 
-o  Cc.  Dissolve  the  ferrous  sulphate  in  the  distilled  water  previously  heated  to  boiling’ 
i add  the  diluted  sulphuric  acid,  and  filter  the  solution  while  hot.  Evaporate  the  solution’ 
immediately  in  a tared  porcelain  capsule,  on  a sand-bath,  until  it  weighs  150  Gm.,  and 
then  cool  it  quickly,  under  constant  stirring.  Place  the  product  into  a glass  funnel 
stopped  with  a plug  of  absorbent  cotton,  and,  when  it  has  thoroughly  drained,  pour  upon 
it  the  alcohol.  When  this  has  also  drained,  spread  the  crystalline  powder  on  bibulous 
paper  dry  it  quickly  in  the  sunlight  or  in  a dry  room,  at  the  ordinary  temperature,  and 
transfer  it  at  once  to  perfectly  dry  well-stoppered  bottles. — U.  S. 

Granulated  ferrous  sulphate  may  also  be  prepared  by  dissolving  8 av.  ozs.  of  the  pure 
salt  m 8 fluidounces  of  boiling  distilled  water,  and  adding  2\  fluidrachms  of  diluted  sul- 
phuric acid.  After  filtration  the  solution  is  evaporated  to  12  av.  ozs.,  as  directed  above, 
and  the  granules  are  washed  with  2 fluidounces  of  alcohol. 

| The  P/es.ent  official  directions  differ  materially  from  those  of  1880,  when  the  precipi- 
tation o t e salt  was  directed  with  a large  volume  of  alcohol,  and  also  a subsequent 
was  ing  with  alcohol  until  all  free  acid  was  removed.  The  addition  of  sulphuric  acid 
(as  already  stated  on  the  preceding  page)  is  to  prevent  the  oxidation  of  the  ferrous  salt, 

and  the  washing  of  the  granular  product  with  alcohol  removes  acid  and  water,  but  not 
entirely. 

The  British  Pharmacopoeia  gives  the  same  directions  as  for  the  crystallized  salt,  except 


Fig.  123. 


Crystal  of  Ferrous  Sul- 
phate. 


742 


FERRI  SULPHIDUM. 


that  on  filtering  the  solution  is  collected  in  a jar  containing  8 fluidounces  of  alcohol, 
which  quantity  is  insufficient  for  precipitating  all  the  ferrous  sulphate.  The  German 
Pharmacopoeia  likewise  directs  the  salt  to  be  prepared  from  iron  wire,  but  directs  the 
aqueous  solution  to  be  filtered  into  about  half  its  volume  of  alcohol  under  constant  agi- 
tation ; the  granular  precipitate  is  transferred  to  a filter,  washed  with  alcohol,  expressed, 
and  dried  rapidly.  The  salt  thus  prepared  is  a very  pale  bluish-green  powder,  which, 
if  it  has  been  properly  dried,  is  less  readily  oxidized  on  exposure  than  the  crystals,  but 
in  other  respects  shows  precisely  the  same  behavior  as  the  crystallized  salt,  and  is  tested 
in  the  same  manner. 

Ferri  sulphas  exsiccatus,  U.  S. ; Ferri  sulphas  exsiccata,  Br, ; Ferrum  sul- 
furicum  siccum,  P.  G. — Dried  (exsiccated)  ferrous  sulphate  or  sulphate  of  iron,  E. ; 
Sulfate  ferreux  desseche,  Fr. ; Entwassertes  Ferrosulfat,  G. — Ferrous  Sulphate,  in  coarse 
powder,  100  Gm.  Allow  the  salt  to  effloresce  at  a temperature  of  about  40°  C.  (104°  F.), 
and  then  heat  it  in  a porcelain  dish,  on  a water-bath,  until  the  product  weighs  from  64  to 
65  Gm.  Lastly,  reduce  the  residue  to  a fine  powder,  and  transfer  it  at  once  to  perfectly 
dry  well-stoppered  bottles. — U.  S. 

The  British  Pharmacopoeia  directs  the  use  of  a porcelain  or  iron  dish,  and  the  heat  to 
be  raised  only  to  100°  C.  (212°  F.).  At  a somewhat  higher  temperature  the  yield  is 
about  61  per  cent.  The  German  Pharmacopoeia  employs  the  same  method  as  the  U.  S. 
Crystallized  ferrous  sulphate  contains  45.3  per  cent,  of  water  of  crystallization,  a portion 
of  which  is  lost  in  a dry  atmosphere  at  the  ordinary  temperature,  the  remainder,  except 
1 molecule,  at  115°  C.  (239°  F.).  The  last  molecule  of  water  is  expelled  only  at  about 
280°  C.  (536°  F.),  and,  if  proper  care  be  taken,  without  the  loss  of  sulphuric  acid. 

Exsiccated  ferrous  sulphate  forms  a grayish-white  powder  which  dissolves  slowly  in 
cold,  more  rapidly  in  hot,  water,  leaving  only  a small  quantity  of  ferric  oxysulphate. 
Otherwise,  the  behavior  and  tests  of  purity  are  the  same  as  for  the  crystalline  salt,  nearly 
10  parts  of  which  are  represented  by  6 parts  of  the  exsiccated  salt. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  intense  astringency  of  the  sulphates  of  iron  renders 
them,  as  a rule,  ineligible  for  internal  administration,  except  when  it  is  intended  to  exert 
a directly  constringing  action  upon  the  capillaries  either  of  the  alimentary  canal  or  of 
remote  organs.  If  the  dose  much  exceeds  Gm.  0.06-0.12  (gr.  j-ij),  it  is  apt  to  occasion 
gastric  pain  and  vomiting,  and  the  prolonged  use  of  even  smaller  doses  is  not  free  from 
the  risk  of  impairing  the  digestive  function.  This  preparation  is  one  of  the  iron  com- 
pounds most  liable  to  remain  undissolved  in  the  bowels  and  occasion  their  obstruction. 
It  is  best  removed  by  means  of  saline  purges.  Yet  in  small  doses  it  is  one  of  the  best 
adjuncts  of  aloes  in  relieving  constipation  caused  by  torpor  of  the  colon.  Besides  passive 
hemorrhages,  it  is  well  adapted  to  control  excessive  secretions  produced  by  debility,  as 
sweating , gastric  catarrh , gastric  ulcer , chronic  diarrhoea,  leucorrhoea,  gleet,  and  hydruria. 
Externally,  it  has  been  applied  to  the  skin  in  superficial  traumatic  erysipelas,  but  it  is 
quite  useless  in  the  idiopathic  form  of  the  disease.  A solution  of  Gm.  16  (J  ounce)  of 
the  salt  in  a pint  of  water,  or  an  ointment  containing  Gm.  8 (2  drachms)  to  the  ounce 
of  lard,  may  be  employed  in  the  former  affection.  An  ointment  made  with  1 or  2 parts 
of  the  dried  sulphate  to  30  of  lard  is  a useful  application  in  cases  of  obstinate  local 
diseases  of  the  skin,  such  as  eczema,  intertrigo,  and  impetigo.  It  may  also  aid  in  healing 
the  sores  occasioned  by  rupia,  ecthyma,  syphilis,  and  scrofula,  but  has  no  advantage  over 
zinc  ointment  for  this  purpose. 


FERRI  SULPHIDUM.— Ferrous  Sulphide. 

Sulphuretum  ferrosum. — Sidphide  of  iron , E. ; Sulfure  de  fer,  Fr. ; Seine ef eleisen , G. 
Formula  FeS.  Molecular  weight  87.86. 


Preparation. — Iron  unites  with  sulphur  in  various  proportions,  some  of  the  com- 
pounds, like  iron  pyrites,  FeS2,  being  found  in  nature.  The  monosulphide,  which  is  em- 
ployed for  generating  hydrogen  sulphide,  is  made  by  mixing  3 parts  of  iron  filings 
with  2 parts  of  sublimed  sulphur,  introducing  the  mixture  in  small  portions  into  a 
crucible  heated  to  bright  redness  and  kept  covered  after  each  addition  ; or  a rod  of  iron 
is  raised  nearly  to  a white  heat  and  then  brought  into  contact  with  sulphur;  ferrous 
sulphide  will  at  once  form  and  melt,  and  should  be  permitted  to  drop  into  cold  water  to 
solidify.  • _ j 

Properties. — It  is  in  yellowish-black  or  blackish  masses  or  irregular  pieces,  which 
have  a metallic  lustre  and  are  permanent  in  dry  air,  but  are  oxidized  when  kept  in  a 
damp  atmosphere.  It  dissolves  readily  in  dilute  sulphuric  or  hydrochloric  acid,  with  the 


FERRI  VALERI  ANAS. 


743 


evolution  of  hydrogen  sulphide,  and  without  leaving  any  residue  when  the  sulphide  is 
pure.  As  met  with,  it  sometimes  contains  an  excess  of  sulphur,  but  usually  has  an 
excess  of  iron,  and  the  hydrogen  sulphide  evolved  is  mixed  with  hydrogen. 

Hydrogen  sulphide,  or  hydrosufphuric  acid  is  a colorless  gas  having  a disgusting  odor 
suggesting  that  of  rotten  eggs.  Its  specific  gravity  is  1.19  ; water  dissolves  three  times 
its  volume  of  the  gas  ; the  solution  is  not  permanent  in  the  air,  but  is  oxidized,  water 
being  formed  and  white  sulphur  deposited.  The  formula  of  hydrogen  sulphide  is  II2S, 
its  molecular  weight  33.98. 

This  compound  has  no  direct  medicinal  value.  It  is  used  solely  for  the  production  of 
hydrogen  sulphide. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  alleged  cure  of  phthisis  by  injecting  the  bowel  with  sul- 
phuretted hydrogen,  which  was  much  in  vogue  about  1885,  proved  it  to  be  not  only  de- 
ceptive, but  injurious.  The  mineral  spring  waters  impregnated  with  this  gas  and  with 
iron  are  used  with  advantage  in  many  cutaneous  diseases  and  in  chronic  bronchitis.  In 
the  latter  affection  pulverized  sulphur  waters  are  much  employed  in  Europe. 

FERRI  VALERI  AN  AS,  U,  S. — Ferric  Valerianate. 

Ferrum  valerianicum. — Valerianate  of  iron,  E. ; Valerianate  de  fer,  Fr.  ; Ferrivaleri- 
anat,  Baldriansaures  Eisenoxyd,  G. 

Ferric  valerianate  should  be  kept  in  small  well-stoppered  bottles,  in  a cool  and  dark 
place. 

Preparation. — This  salt  is  best  obtained  by  adding  to  a cold  solution  of  ferric  sul- 
phate or  ferric  chloride  a cold  solution  of  sodium  valerianate  as  long  as  a precipitate  is 
produced,  collecting  this  upon  a filter,  washing  it  with  a little  water,  and  drying  it  at  a 
temperature  not  exceeding  20°  C.  (68°  F.).  The  salt  is  formed  by  double  decomposition, 
sodium  sulphate  or  chloride  remaining  in  solution,  while  ferric  valerianate  is  precipitated. 
An  elevated  temperature  and  continued  washing  should  be  avoided,  since  valerianic  acid 
would  be  removed  and  a more  basic  salt  remain  behind. 

Properties. — The  salt  is  a dark  brick-red  light  amorphous  powder  of  somewhat 
varying  chemical  composition,  which  has  a slight  odor  and  a taste  of  valerianic  acid. 
It  is  insoluble  in  cold  wrater,  but  readily  soluble  in  alcohol.  Mineral  acids  decompose 
the  salt  with  liberation  of  valerianic  acid.  When  slowly  heated  it  gradually  parts  with 
all  its  acid  without  melting,  but  when  rapidly  heated  it  fuses  and  gives  off  dense  inflam- 
mable vapors  having  only  a faint  odor  of  valerianic  acid,  but  a strong  odor  of  butyric 
acid.  The  salt  is  with  difficulty  moistened  with  cold  water,  but  boiling  water  decomposes 
it,  gradually  setting  free  all  the  acid  and  leaving  ferric  hydroxide.  The  salt  is  easily 
soluble  in  hydrochloric  acid  (Wittstein,  1845).  On  treating  freshly-precipitated  ferric 
hydroxide  with  valerianic  acid,  Ludwig  (1S49)  obtained  a granular  dark  red-brown  pow- 
der  which  was  only  partly  soluble  in  alcohol,  leaving  a basic  salt  behind. 

Test. — “ If  0.56  (0.5588)  Gm.  of  the  salt  be  dissolved  in  a glass-stoppered  bottle 
(having  a capacity  of  about  100  Cc.)  in  2 Cc.  of  hydrochloric  acid  and  15  Cc.  of  water, 
and  subsequently  1 Gm.  of  potassium  iodide  added,  the  mixture  allowed  to  stand  for  half 
an  hour  at  a temperature  of  40°  C.  (104°  F.),  and  then  allowed  to  cool,  and  mixed  with 
a few  drops  of  starch  test-solution,  it  should  require  not  less  than  15,  nor  more  than  20 
Cc.  of  decinormal  sodium  thiosulphate  solution,  to  discharge  the  blue  or  greenish  color 
of  the  liquid  (each  Cc.  of  the  volumetric  solution  indicating  1 per  cent,  of  metallic  iron)/’ 
— U.  S. 

From  the  foregoing  test  (which  is  the  same  as  that  recommended  for  the  ferric  scale 
compounds)  it  will  be  seen  that  the  U.  S.  P.  requires  a salt  containing  between  15  and 
20  per  cent,  of  metallic  iron  ; such  a salt  upon  complete  ignition  will  leave  a residue  of 
between  21.42  and  28.57  per  cent,  of  ferric  oxide. 

Composition. — The  formula  Fe2(C5H902)6,  mol.  weight  716.38,  requires  22.28  per 
cent.  Fe203.  Ludwig’s  alcoholic  solution,  when  spontaneously  evaporated,  left  a salt 
yielding  21.5  per  cent.  Fe203 ; the  formula  Fe2(C5H902)fi.H20  requires  21.77  percent. 
Dried  at  50°  C.  (122°  F.),  the  same  salt  yielded  30  per  cent.,  and  Wittstein’s  salt,  dried 
at  20°  C.  (68°  F.),  gave  27  per  cent.  Fe203 ; the  formula  Fe2(C5H902)6.Fe0C5H902  re- 
quires 26.22. per  cent.  The  variable  composition  of  the  salt  depends  on  the  process,  the 
care  with  which  it  has  been  washed,  and  the  temperature  at  which  it  has  been  dried. 

Action  and  Uses. — It  was  expressly  stated,  when  this  preparation  was  first 
introduced  into  medicine,  that  it  would  be  an  error  to  regard  it  as  a true  antispasmodic, 
on  account  of  the  valerianic  acid  in  its  composition,  and  that  its  value  depended  mainly 


744 


FERRUM. 


upon  the  iron  it  contained,  the  acid  acting  only  as  an  adjuvant.  It  should  have  been 
added  that  the  iron  might  be  introduced  into  the  system  under  many  more  eligible 
forms  and  in  more  suitable  doses  than  were  recommended  for  this  salt.  It  is  probably 
but  little  used,  even  for  the  affections  for  which  it  was  originally  recommended,  and 
which  were  described  as  “ chlorosis  with  hysterical  or  epileptiform  attacks.”  It  was 
prescribed  in  pills  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.05-0.15  (gr.  j-iij)  several  times  a day. 

FERRUM,  U.  S.,  Br.—  Iron. 

Mars. — Fer , Fr.  ; Eisen , G. 

Symbol  Fe.  Atomicity  bivalent  and  sexivalent  (Fe2).  Atomic  weight  55.88. 

Metallic  iron,  in  the  form  of  fine,  bright,  and  non-elastic  wire,  U.  S. ; wrought  iron  in 
the  form  of  wire  or  nails  free  from  oxide,  Br. 

Origin. — Iron  is  the  most  useful  and  one  of  the  most  widely-diffused  metals  in  nature, 
being  present  in  most  rocks  and  soils,  and  generally  forming  one  of  the  constituents  of 
the  ashes  of  plants  and  animals.  It  is  rarely  found  in  the  metallic  state.  It  is  often 
combined  with  sulphur,  as  iron  pyrites,  more  frequently  oxidized,  as  magnetic  iron,  spathic 
iron , hematite,  and  other  ores,  and  likewise  in  combination  with  mineral  acids.  It  is  found 
in  large  quantities  in  several  states  of  North  America  and  in  Great  Britain,  Sweden,  Ger- 
many, France,  and  other  European  countries. 

The  manufacture  of  metallic  iron  must  of  necessity  vary  with  the  nature  of  the  ore, 
but  the  principle  is  in  all  cases  the  same.  The  ore  frequently  requires  roasting  or  calci- 
nation, mainly  for  the  purpose  of  rendering  it  more  porous  and  better  adapted  for  the 
smelting  process ; this  process  is  conducted  in  blast-furnaces,  the  ore  being  mixed  with 
carbonaceous  matter — coke  and  the  like — some  flux,  either  lime  or  clay,  being  added  at 
the  same  time,  whereby  a more  readily  fusible  silicate  of  aluminum  and  calcium  is 
formed,  which  on  cooling  forms  the  glass-like  slag.  The  crude  iron  obtained  from  the 
blast-furnace  is  called  pig  or  cast  iron,  and  contains  various  proportions  of  carbon,  silicon, 
sulphur,  phosphorus,  and  other  impurities,  from  which  it  must  be  purified  to  adapt  it  for 
various  uses  in  the  arts.  In  the  refining  or  puddling  process  it  is  fused,  and  by  stirring 
brought  into  contact  with  a blast  of  air,  by  which  the  impurities  are  oxidized,  or  the  oxi- 
dation is  effected  with  the  aid  of  an  impure  oxide  of  iron  (iron  scales).  The  slag  still 
remaining  in  the  iron  is  then  at  a white  heat  pressed  out  under  a steam-hammer,  and  the 
iron  thus  purified  rolled  out  into  bars.  For  many  purposes  a further  purification  is 
requisite. 

Properties. — Iron  is  a grayish  metal  of  the  spec.  grav.  7.7  to  7.9.  Its  tenacity  or 
strength  is  nearly  twice  as  great  as  that  of  any  other  metal  commonly  used,  and  when 
heated  to  redness  it  possesses  a ductility  admitting  of  its  being  drawn  into  the  thinnest 
wire.  At  a white  heat  it  becomes  pasty  and  may  be  welded,  but  it  can  be  fused  only  by 
the  full  heat  of  a blast-furnace,  and  on  congealing  it  expands  somewhat  in  volume.  Iron 
remains  unchanged  in  dry  air,  but  in  the  presence  of  moisture  its  surface  becomes  cov- 
ered with  brown-red  oxide  (rust').  It  enters  into  combination  with  nearly  all  the  elements, 
and  forms  the  base  of  two  important  series  of  salts,  the  ferrous  and  ferric , in  the  former 
of  which  it  is  bivalent.  Fe",  in  the  latter  sexivalent  FeVI  = (Fe2)"'. 

Ferrous  salts , when  anhydrous,  are  mostly  white,  and  bluish-green  in  the  hydrated 
state ; the  oxalate  is  yellow.  When  moist  or  in  solution  they  are  easily  oxidized  on 
exposure  to  the  air  or  under  the  influence  of  oxidizing  agents.  Their  aqueous  solutions 
are  colored  brownish-black  by  nitric  oxide,  and  yield  black  precipitates  with  ammonium 
sulphide  and  white  ones,  changing  to  green,  black,  and  brown,  with  alkalies  and  their 
carbonates  ; the  precipitation,  particularly  with  ammonia,  is  incomplete.  Soluble  phos- 
phates precipitate  white  ferrous  phosphate,  changing  to  greenish-blue  ; potassium  ferrocy- 
anide  produces  a bluish-white  precipitate,  changing  to  dark-blue,  and  potassium  ferricy- 
anide  a dark-blue  one.  Ferrous  solutions  free  from  ferric  salt  are  not  affected  by  potassium 
sulphocyanate  or  tannin.  The  soluble  normal  ferrous  salts  have  an  acid  reaction  to  test- 
paper  ; those  insoluble  in  water  dissolve  is  hydrochloric  acid. 

Ferric  salts  are  either  normal  or  basic : the  normal  salts,  when  soluble,  have  an  acid 
reaction,  are  mostly  white  when  anhydrous,  and  brown  or  brown-yellow  when  hydrated: 
the  basic  salts  are  of  a darker  brown  or  reddish-brown  color.  Those  insoluble  in  water 
dissolve  in  hydrochloric  acid.  Hydrogen  sulphide  reduces  ferric  to  ferrous  salts,  sulphur 
being  separated  ; ammonium  sulphide  produces  the  same  reduction,  and  afterward  a black 
precipitate.  Alkalies  and  alkali  carbonates  added  in  excess  separate  brown  ferric 
hydroxide,  in  the  latter  case  with  the  evolution  of  carbon  dioxide ; the  precipitation  is 


FERRUM. 


745 


prevented  by  the  presence  of  tartaric  acid  and  some  other  organic  compounds.  Alkali 
acetate,  added  in  the  cold,  colors  the  solutions  deep  brown-red,  the  color  disappearing  on 
the  addition  of  hydrochloric  acid ; on  boiling  a brown  precipitate  of  basic  ferric  acetate 
or  ferric  hydroxide  is  deposited.  Solutions  of  ferric  salts  treated  with  metallic  iron,  sul- 
phurous acid,  or  other  deoxidizing  agents  are  reduced  to  ferrous  salts.  Sodium  phosphate 
precipitates  white  ferric  phosphate,  which  is  insoluble  in  acetic  acid,  becomes  brown  by 
ammonia,  and  if  excess  of  sodium  phosphate  be  present  dissolves  in  ammonia  with  a red- 
brown  color.  Sodium  arsenate  has  a behavior  similar  to  that  of  the  phosphate.  Gallo- 
tannic  acid  causes  a blue-black  color  and  precipitate  (writing  ink).  Meconic  acid  and 
sulphocyanates  color  the  solutions  blood-red,  the  color  produced  by  the  latter  reagent 
being  destroyed  by  corrosive  sublimate  and  by  strong  mineral  acids.  Potassium  ferri- 
cyanide  darkens  the  solutions  of  ferric  salts  to  an  olive-brown  color ; potassium  ferro- 
cvanide  precipitates  Prussian  blue. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Besides  the  salts  of  iron  treated  of  elsewhere,  the  follow- 
ing may  be  noticed  : 

Ferri  benzoas. — Ferric  benzoate,  E.  Fe2(C7II502)66H20  ; mol.  weight  945.8. — Solution  of 
ferric  sulphate  is  precipitated  by  a concentrated  solution  of  sodium  or  ammonium  benzoate,  the 
precipitate  collected  on  a filter,  washed  with  a little  cold  water,  pressed,  and  dried.  It  is  a 
brownish  orange-colored  powder  having  little  taste,  and  turning  brown  when  heated  to  about 
135°  C.  (275°  F.),  with  the  loss  of  water ; at  a higher  temperature  benzoic  acid  sublimes  and  the 
salt  is  decomposed.  Water  and  alcohol  dissolve  a portion  of  the  compound,  leaving  a basic  salt. 
Basic  ferric  benzoates  of  a reddish  or  pale-brownish  color  are  obtained  from  solution  of  subsul- 
phate  of  iron  or  of  ferric  chloride  mixed  with  ammonia-water  insufficient  in  quantity  for  precipi- 
tation by  adding  solution  of  ammonium  benzoate. 

Ferri  malas. — Ferrous  malate,  E.  Impure  malate  of  iron  is  recognized  by  several  European 
pharmacopoeias  as  Extractum  ferri  pomatum,  which  is  prepared  by  digesting  the  expressed 
juice  of  sour  apples  with  3 or  4 per  cent,  of  iron  filings  until  the  reaction  has  ceased,  filtering, 
and  evaporating.  It  has  a blackish-green  color,  and  contains  a variable  quantity  of  iron,  some- 
times as  much  as  8 per  cent.  1 part  of  it  dissolved  in  9 parts  of  cinnamon-water,  containing 
one-tenth  its  weight  of  alcohol,  is  known  as  Tinctura  ferri  pomata,  P.  G. 

Ferri  oxalas. — Ferrous  oxalate,  E.  FeC204.II20  ; mol.  weight  161.62. — This  salt  may  be  pre- 
pared by  mixing  solutions  of  oxalic  acid  and  ferrous  sulphate,  but  as  the  ferrous  oxalate  is 
somewhat  soluble  in  diluted  sulphuric  acid,  it  is  best  to  neutralize  the  oxalic  acid  in  part  with 
ammonia  before  adding  the  iron  solution,  in  order  to  increase  the  yield  of  precipitate.  The  fol- 
lowing formula  will  answer : Dissolve  436  grains  of  oxalic  acid  in  1 pint  of  water  5 to  two-thirds 
of  the  solution  add  enough  ammonia-water  to  exactly  neutralize  it ; then  add  the  remaining 
third,  thus  forming  an  acid  ammonium  oxalate  ; having  dissolved  960  grains  of  ferrous  sulphate 
in  two  pints  of  distilled  water,  filter  and  mix  with  the  solution  of  ammonium  oxalate.  Set  aside 
for  a while,  and  wash  the  precipitate  well  with  water  until  free  from  acid.  It  occurs  as  a pale 
lemon-yellow,  inodorous,  crystalline  powder,  sparingly  soluble  in  cold  as  well  as  boiling  water 
(about  1 part  in  4500).  It  dissolves  in  cold  hydrochloric  acid  and  in  hot  dilute  sulphuric 
acid. 

Ferri  salicylas. — Ferrous  salicylate,  E.  According  to  Eberle  (1886)  this  salt  is  best  pre- 
pared by  dissolving  freshly  precipitated  ferrous  carbonate  in  water  by  means  of  salicylic  acid 
with  the  aid  of  a gentle  heat,  filtering  and  evaporating  the  solution  to  dryness  on  a water-bath. 
The  ferrous  carbonate  can  be  readily  prepared  by  dissolving  100  parts  of  ferrous  sulphate  and 
110  parts  of  sodium  carbonate  each  in  200  parts  of  boiling  water,  filtering,  and  mixing  when 
cold ; the  precipitate  is  washed  by  decantation  until  free  from  sulphate,  transferred  to  a porce- 
lain dish  and  dissolved  as  above  directed. 

Ferri  tannas. — Ferric  tannate,  E.  Ferric  tannates,  free  from  gallate  and  containing  but  little 
of  ferrous  compound,  are  produced  by  precipitating  cold  solutions  of  ferric  salts  with  tannin  ; 
a mixture  of  ferrous  salt  and  tannin  exposed  to  the  air  likewise  deposits  ferric  tannate.  Witt- 
stein  (1874)  found  these  precipitates  to  contain  between  8.4  and  56.25  per  cent,  of  ferric  oxide, 
the  nature  of  the  iron  salt  and  the  order  of  mixing  the  solutions  influencing  the  composition  of 
the  precipitate.  A compound  containing  about  one-third  its  weight  of  ferric  oxide  is  obtained 
by  preparing  the  hydroxide  from  3 fluidounces  of  solution  of  ferric  sulphate,  and  triturating  the 
washed  and  pressed  precipitate  with  1 troyounce  of  tannin  and  sufficient  alcohol,  after  which  it 
is  dried  in  a water-bath.  Tannate  of  iron  is  a black  or  bluish-black  powder  which  is  decomposed 
by  mineral  and  the  stronger  organic  acids.  When  boiled  with  water  the  ferric  is  reduced  to 
ferrous  salt. 

Action  and  Uses. — Naturally,  iron  is  indicated  chiefly  when  the  proportion  of  red 
corpuscles  in  the  blood  is  permanently  diminished.  Their  transient  loss  by  haemorrhage 
is  better  repaired  by  food,  out  of  which  the  constituents  of  the  blood  are  normally  elab- 
orated, supposing  that  the  assimilative  functions  are  not  impaired.  But  when  such 
impairment  exists  the  speediest  and  the  surest  cure  is  brought  about  by  the  introduction 
of  iron  into  the  economy.  By  its  means  the  proportion  of  red  corpuscles  in  the  blood 
appears  to  be,  if  it  is  not  actually,  increased,  and  their  condition,  as  seen  under  the  micro- 


746 


FERRUM. 


scope,  is  changed  from  pale  and  shrivelled  to  red  and  full ; through  them  more  oxygen  is 
introduced  into  the  system,  and  a more  active  assimilation  of  nutriment,  as  well  as  a more 
perfect  renewal  of  tissue,  is  secured.  The  cases  in  which  anaemia  may  be  thus  remedied 
comprise  those  associated  or  not  with  chlorosis,  hypochondria,  convalescence  from  pro- 
longed and  exhausting  diseases,  malarial  and  saturnine  and  some  other  cacliexiae  attended 
with  imperfect  elaboration  of  the  blood  or  its  habitual  waste,  certain  varieties  of  dyspep- 
sia, some  forms  of  albuminuria,  etc.  But  in  these  and  other  diseases  which  do  not  involve 
incurable  organic  lesions  it  often  happens  that  iron  remains  inoperative — in  all  probability 
because  it  is  not  digested,  and  not  received,  if  at  all,  into  the  system  in  such  a form  as  to 
make  it  an  efficient  oxygen-bearer  in  the  blood.  It  has  been  proved  that  in  such  cases 
the  inhalation  of  oxygen  gas  exerts  a powerful  although  a transient  stimulating  influence 
upon  the  nutritive  and  animal  functions,  and  that  to  render  its  action  more  permanent  a 
prolonged  systematic  treatment  by  iron  is  essential.  Conversely,  it  is  a fact  familiar  to 
practitioners  that  the  mere  administration  of  iron  forms  but  one  element  of  the  treat- 
ment in  all  cases  of  chronic  anaemia.  What  may  be  accomplished  medicinally  by  means 
of  oxygen  is  more  effectually  and  certainly  attained  by  those  various  hygienic  measures, 
including  exercise,  active  and  passive,  change  of  scene,  etc.,  which  increase  the  activity 
of  the  respiratory  act  while  stimulating  the  whole  nervous  system.  Although  in  the 
greater  number  of  chronic  nervous  diseases  distinguished  by  morbid  susceptibility  the  con- 
dition of  the  blood  is  impaired,  and  the  restoration  of  this  fluid  to  its  normal  state  is  an 
essential  element  of  the  cure,  yet  it  often  happens  that  the  disorder  is  apparently  limited 
to  the  nervous  system,  especially  when  the  latter  has  been  directly  affected  by  the  morbid 
cause.  In  such  cases  the  use  of  iron  is  more  prejudicial  than  profitable  ; it  oppresses  and 
does  not  invigorate ; it  impairs  the  appetite,  constipates  the  bowels,  and  induces  a dan- 
gerous plethora.  Such  a mode  of  action  doubtless  explains  the  injurious  effect  of  iron 
in  the  greater  number  of  cases  of  epilepsy — a disease  which  experience  shows  to  be 
benefited,  as  a rule,  by  agents  that  diminish  the  amount  of  blood  in  the  brain  (vegetable 
diet,  belladonna,  the  alkaline  bromides),  and  not  by  those  which,  like  iron,  increase  it. 
There  may  be  cases  of  the  disease  in  which  the  attacks  are  rendered  more  frequent  by  a 
morbid  susceptibility  of  the  nervous  system  induced  by  sexual,  and  especially  by  unnat- 
ural sexual,  excitement,  and  an  associated  anaemia  ; in  these  it  is  quite  intelligible  that 
iron  should  be  salutary,  especially  in  conjunction  with  appropriate  hygienic  measures. 
It  was  probably  such  cases  that  Gowers  has  reported  to  have  been  ameliorated  or  cured 
by  means  of  iron  ( Times  and'  Gaz.,  April,  1880,  p.  447).  When  anaemia  constitutes  only 
one  out  of  many  symptoms  of  a disease,  the  use  of  iron  will  be  more  or  less  efficient 
in  proportion  as  the  anaemia  depends  or  not  upon  removable  causes.  The  anaemia 
of  tuberculosis,  of  cancer,  the  interstitial  form  of  Bright’s  disease,  and  some  other  affec- 
tions is  subordinate  to  an  incurable  lesion,  and  iron  can  therefore  act  only  as  a palliative. 
In  these,  and  indeed  in  nearly  all  forms  of  anaemia,  iron  is  food,  and,  like  other  food, 
must  be  productive  of  good  or  evil  according  to  the  patient’s  need  of  it  and  his  power  of 
assimilating  it. 

Scanty  as  well  as  excessive  menstruation  may  be  appropriately  treated  by  iron,  for 
either  may  be  due  to  a deficiency  of  normal  blood.  When  the  catamenia  are  profuse  but 
watery,  they  are  diminished  by  iron  and  the  proportion  of  solids  in  the  discharge  is 
increased ; on  the  other  hand,  when  they  are  both  scanty  and  pale  iron  is  the  best  agent 
for  increasing  them.  The  former  case  is  the  more  hopeful  one,  because  it  shows  a cer- 
tain energy,  with  a due  supply  of  material ; the  latter,  in  its  chronic  type,  is  usually  a 
sign  of  progressive  and  incurable  exhaustion,  but  sometimes  also  it  results  from  uterine 
congestion,  which  must  first  be  treated  before  iron  can  be  of  much  avail.  This  object  is 
usually  sought  by  means  of  aloetic  purges  and  other  stimulant  and  derivative  agencies. 
In  all  cases  of  active  uterine  haemorrhage , if  there  be  any  such  independently  of  disease 
of  the  womb,  iron  should  not  be  given  internally,  no  matter  how  great  may  be  the  anae- 
mia which  excessive  and  repeated  losses  occasion  ; but  when  the  flow  is  passive  the  case 
enters  the  category  of  passive  haemorrhages  generally  ; and  for  these,  whether  they  take 
place  from  the  organ  named,  from  the  rectum,  bladder,  kidneys,  or  other  part,  iron 
becomes  one  of  the  best  remedies — not  as  iron  merely,  but  iron  in  combination  with 
a mineral  acid,  in  which  the  astringency  is  derived  from  the  acid  rather  than 
from  the  ferruginous  base.  The  combinations  of  hydrochloric  and  of  sulphuric  acid 
with  iron  are  in  this  respect  the  most  efficient.  The  stimulant  action  of  iron  salts  ren- 
ders them  less  appropriate  for  pulmonary  than  for  other  internal  haemorrhages,  except 
in  the  form  of  astringent  atomized  solutions.  Iron  is  useful  in  regulating  the  heart 
when  it  becomes  irregular  through  weakness,  whether  or  not  the  condition  be  aggravated 


FERR  UM. 


747 


by  valvular  disease.  By  giving  tone  to  this,  as  well  as  to  other  organs,  it  sometimes 
promotes  the  removal  of  dropsies  dependent  upon  cardiac  obstruction. 

Various  nervous  disorders  more  or  less  dependent  upon  impoverishment  of  the  blood 
may  be  cured  by  iron.  Of  these  the  most  directly  amenable  to  its  operation  is  neuralgia , 
especially  of  the  fifth  pair,  and  next  to  this  of  the  gastric  nerves,  and  chorea , which  very 
often,  like  neuralgia,  is  the  result  of  debility  and,  remotely,  of  impoverishment  of  the 
blood.  Among  other  nervous  affections  for  which  iron  is  appropriate  are  various  irrita- 
tions of  the  bladder  and  urethra  tending  to  occasion  retention  or  incontinence  of  urine,  in 
which  the  tincture  of  the  chloride  or  the  syrup  of  iodide  of  iron  may  be  used  with  much 
confidence  in  its  virtues.  Seminal  emissions  in  weak,  nervous,  and  excitable  persons  may 
sometimes  be  prevented  by  the  same  agent,  especially  if  associated  with  belladonna  or 
ergot,  which,  indeed,  renders  the  cure  more  prompt  and  certain.  The  same  is  true  of  the 
use  of  iron  in  certain  cases  of  incontinence  of  urine. 

The  cure  of  insanity  and  of  whooping  cough  may  be  promoted  by  iron,  like  that  of 
neuralgia  and  chorea,  when  associated  with  exhaustion  of  the  nervous  system.  One 
of  the  most  valuable  results  of  recent  experience  in  regard  to  insanity  consists  in  the 
proof  that  good  food  and  other  hygienic  means  are  essential  elements  of  its  proper  treat- 
ment. In  like  manner,  iron  is  not  a specific  for  whooping  cough  ; it  only  changes  the 
soil  in  which  that  disease  tends  to  gain  strength.  Iron  is  contraindicated  in  epilepsy, 
with  the  proviso  above  mentioned  ; that  is  to  say,  unless  the  patient’s  condition,  upon 
other  grounds,  requires  the  use  of  chalybeate  medicines. 

Intermittent  fever  is  cured  by  iron  only  when  the  disease  is  prolonged  by  exhaustion 
of  the  system  and  impoverishment  of  the  blood,  and  this  occurs  especially  when  the  sick 
remain  in  malarial  localities  and  when  an  appropriate  antiperiodic  treatment  has  not 
been  employed.  Hence  the  use  of  quinine  after  a course  of  iron  is  found  to  be  more 
efficient  than  before  it  in  the  cases  alluded  to.  Enlargement  of  the  spleen  may  be  rap- 
idly lessened  by  iron  if  the  affection  be  not  inveterate.  In  a word,  the  efficacy  of  iron 
in  malarial  affections  is  wholly  subordinate  to  its  renovating  action  upon  the  blood. 

The  same  statement  is,  in  the  main,  true  respecting  the  use  of  iron  in  dyspepsia.  The 
medicine  acts  chiefly  by  improving  the  blood,  and  thereby  increasing  the  secretion  of 
gastric  juice  and  the  muscular  power  of  the  stomach.  But  if  acid  preparations  are  used, 
they  act  also  as  local  stimulants.  Hence  the  latter  should  be  given  immediately  before 
meals,  but  other  martial  preparations  either  along  with  the  food  or  directly  after  meals. 
In  either  case  cinchona  and  its  derivatives  are  important  adjuvants. 

The  salutary  action  of  iron  in  albuminuria  probably  is  mainly  due  to  its  lessening  the 
destruction  of  the  red  blood-disks,  and  in  a subordinate  degree  to  its  local  action  upon 
the  kidneys.  The  latter  is,  however,  less  probable  than  the  former,  since  it  is  alleged 
that  the  iron  cannot  be  detected  in  the  urine.  It  nevertheless  lessens  the  proportion  of 
albumen  discharged,  and  in  the  desquamative  forms  of  Bright’s  disease  often  effects  a 
stable  cure.  This  is  particularly  evident  in  albuminuria  and  dropsy  occurring  after  scar- 
latina or  from  the  action  of  cold  and  dampness  upon  the  skin.  But  the  medicine  is  still 
the  best  even  in  granular  and  in  amyloid  degeneration  of  the  kidney.  The  form  of  its 
administration  is  of  secondary  importance,  but  probably  a solution  of  muriated  tincture 
of  iron  in  acetate  of  ammonia,  with  an  excess  of  acetic  acid,  is  to  be  preferred. 

Iron  is  one  of  the  most  important  aids  to  a proper  diet  in  the  treatment  of  diabetes ; 
it  tends  to  sustain  the  general  health  even  when  it  does  not  directly  cause  a diminution 
in  the  proportion  of  sugar  excreted.  Basham’s  mixture  (which  represents  the  solution 
mentioned  in  the  last  paragraph)  appears  to  be  the  best  form  for  its  administration.  In 
chronic  mucous  fluxes  of  every  description  iron  is  invaluable — in  those  of  the  bowels,  by 
its  direct  application  partly,  and  in  the  rest  by  its  influence  upon  the  blood,  and  perhaps 
also  by  constringing  the  capillary  vessels.  It  is  of  great  value  in  the  treatment  of 
intestinal  worms — not  so  much,  probably,  by  directly  destroying  them  as  by  rendering 
the  intestinal  secretions  more  healthy,  and  thereby  depriving  the  parasites  of  their  nidus. 
Among  mucous  proflu  via,  chronic  bronchitis  is  often  cured  by  iron,  especially  when  the 
sputa  are  muco-purulent.  Hence  the  reputation  of  the  compound  iron  mixture  as  an 
antihectic  medicine,  and  hence  also  the  error  of  applying  the  same  treatment  to  con- 
sumption of  the  lungs.  True  pulmonary  phthisis , with  tissue-degeneration,  is  benefited 
by  iron  mainly  in  so  far  as  its  use  is  proportioned  to  the  diminished  blood-formation 
belonging  to  that  affection.  It  may  be  not  only  tolerated,  but  useful,  while  active  exer- 
cise can  be  taken,  but  unless  great  care  is  exercised  it  increases  the  tendency  to  haemop- 
tysis and  possibly  hastens  the  progress  of  the  disease.  It  is  most  readily  borne  by  the 
dull  and  lymphatic,  when  there  is  but  little  tendency  to  febrile  irritation,  and  when  the 


748 


FERRUM. 


consumption  is  essentially  chronic.  As  iron  is  a constituent  of  the  body,  and  by  its 
function  in  the  blood  one  of  its  most  important  constituents,  the  amount  of  it  consumed 
in  food  or  medicine  must  bear  a certain  relation  to  the  needs  of  the  economy.  It  is  just 
as  possible  to  create  a surfeit  of  iron  as  of  meat  and  drink,  of  fatty  food,  or  of  cod-liver 
oil.  Doubtless  in  every  case  there  is  a physical  reason  for  the  repugnance  which  one 
may  acquire  for  certain  articles  of  diet — the  saturation,  that  is,  of  the  system  by  their 
peculiar  constituents ; and  in  the  case  of  iron  it  is  evident  that  if  the  demand  for  it  is 
not  sustained  by  such  a physiological  tissue-waste  as  exercise,  etc.  produce,  it  will  more 
or  less  speedily  induce  an  oppressive  and  dangerous  plethora.  Iron  is  more  appropriate 
in  scrofula , a disease  histologically  allied  to,  but  clinically  quite  different  from,  phthisis ; 
but  even  in  this  affection  its  value,  except  to  meet  incidental  conditions,  such  as  anaemia 
and  dyspepsia,  is  not  great.  The  iodide  of  iron  is  probably  useful  in  glandular  scrofula 
in  virtue  of  the  iodine  it  contains.  In  syphilis  and  cancer , for  which  iron  has  been 
recommended,  it  has  no  other  virtues  than  arise  from  its  power  of  sustaining  the  general 
health,  or,  in  the  case  of  the  former  disease,  of  mitigating  the  mischiefs  of  an  excessive 
use  of  mercury. 

The  most  efficient  remedy  in  idiopathic  erysipelas  is  the  tincture  of  the  chloride  of 
iron  given  in  full  and  repeated  doses,  such  as  from  G-m.  1.30-2.60  (20  to  40  drops), 
every  two  or  three  hours,  properly  diluted.  Smaller  doses  are  quite  useless.  Its  action 
is  probably  to  constringe  the  capillary  blood-vessels,  although  its  acid  element  may  di- 
rectly tend  to  antagonize  the  febrile  poison. 

The  same  preparation  has  been  reported  to  act  very  favorably  in  low  forms  of  scarla- 
tina, measles , and  puerperal  fever,  but,  although  there  is  no  reason  to  reject  its  use,  there 
is  not  enough  to  recommend  it.  The  use  of  iron  as  an  internal  remedy  in  diphtheria 
has  been  highly  commended  by  several  physicians,  but  a critical  examination  of  their 
reports  demonstrates  that  there  is  no  more  reason  to  attribute  the  measure  of  success 
they  achieved  to  the  tincture  of  the  chloride  or  the  subsulphate  of  iron  they  employed, 
the  one  internally  and  the  other  topically,  than  to  the  quinine  and  chlorate  of  potassium 
and  inhalations  of  lime-water  that  were  used  at  the  same  time.  While  there  are  good 
grounds,  therefore,  for  using  this  compound  treatment,  there  are  none  whatever  for 
assigning  to  iron  a controlling  share  in  the  results  obtained.  The  sulphuret  of  iron  has 
been  proposed  as  an  antidote  to  constitutional  poisoning  by  lead  and  as  a means  of  neu- 
tralizing the  salts  of  mercury , lead,  antimony , copper , and  especially  arsenic , in  the  stom- 
ach. For  the  last  named  the  hydrated  oxide  is  generally  employed,  but,  as  elsewhere 
stated,  it  probably  acts  by  mechanically  enveloping  the  particles  of  arsenic  rather  than 
as  a chemical  antidote.  The  same  remark  applies  to  the  insoluble  saccharated  oxide  of 
iron,  and  less  absolutely  to  the  hydrated  oxide  of  iron  with  magnesia. 

The  contraindications  to  the  use  of  iron  it  is  essential  to  keep  in  mind.  The  one  which 
surpasses  all  others  in  importance  is  feverishness.  Almost  the  only  exception  to  this 
statement  is  that  tincture  of  chloride  of  iron  cures  erysipelas , but  it  doubtless  acts,  not 
as  an  haematic,  but  as  a powerful  astringent.  In  nearly  all  other  cases  fever  (several 
exceptions  were  noted  in  the  last  paragraph),  or  even  feverishness,  should  exclude  iron, 
whether  it  be  produced  by  chronic  disease,  as  phthisis,  or  by  local  irritations,  such  as 
dyspepsia  with  constipation.  In  the  last-named  affection  the  complexion  is  often  muddy 
and  the  tongue  coated,  not  by  continuous  or  any  other  “ sympathy  ” with  the  gastro- 
intestinal disorder,  but  because  the  local  affection  produces  general  feverishness.  Under 
such  circumstances  purgation  is  an  essential  preliminary  to  the  favorable  action  of 
iron,  and  hence  the  saline  chalybeate  mineral  waters  are  very  efficient  in  curing  this 
condition. 

The  local  therapeutical  uses  of  iron  are  numerous,  but  they  owe  their  value  to  the  astrin- 
gency  of  the  acid  compounds  of  the  metal  rather  than  to  the  metal  itself.  Solutions  and 
ointments  of  the  sulphate  have  been  applied  with  apparent  advantage  in  traumatic  erysip- 
elas, in  phlegmasia  alba,  and  in  various  chronic  eruptions  of  the  shin  occurring  in  persons 
in  whom  these  affections  tend  to -ulcerate  or  to  persist  unchanged.  The  subsulphate, 
in  strong  solution,  has  been  applied  to  the  cure  of  nasal,  aural,  and  other  polypi,  and  in 
weak  solution  to  arrest  chronic  mucous  discharges  from  the  urethra,  vagina,  etc.  Solution 
of  chloride  of  iron  represses  fungous  granulations  in  cases  of  ingrown  toe-nail , ulcerated 
gums,  etc. 

Like  other  astringents,  mineral  salts  of  iron  are  used  in  treating  varicose  or  simply 
dilated  blood-vessels  of  the  conjunctiva  and  relaxed  conditions  of  the  fauces.  Solution 
of  chloride  of  iron  is  said  to  be  useful  as  a local  application  in  diphtheria , and  it  probably 
is  most  so  when  the  exudation  is  in  its  forming  stage  and  of  limited  extent.  In  the 


FERRUM  RED UCTUM. 


749 


decline  of  the  disease  gargles  containing  a small  proportion  of  the  solution  tend  to  con- 
stringe  the  part  and  renew  its  healthy  action.  The  subsulphate  has  been  applied  in  the 
same  manner.  The  chlorides  and  the  sulphates  of  iron  are  haemostatics,  and  have  often 
arrested  threatening  haemorrhage  in  epistaxis,  haemorrhage  from  the  stomach,  from  the 
extraction  of  teeth,  leech-bites,  the  excision  of  tonsils,  cancerous  ulceration,  and  after 
delivery.  In  the  last  case  it  has  been  sufficiently  diluted  with  water  and  carefully  pumped 
into  the  uterine  cavity.  In  pulmonary  haemorrhage  an  atomized  weak  solution  (1  part 
of  the  tincture  to  10  parts  of  water)  has  been  inhaled  with  prompt  effect.  The  injection 
of  solutions  of  the  lactate,  the  perchloride,  and  other  salts  of  iron  into  varicose  and  other 
aneurisms  would  form  an  eligible  method  of  treatment  if  it  were  not  extremely  dangerous. 
In  a number  of  instances  the  operation  has  been  speedily  followed  by  the  patient’s  death, 
either  suddenly  by  embolism  or  later  by  ulceration. 

T annate  of  iron  is  an  astringent  resembling,  but  milder  than,  sulphate  of  iron.  Malate 
of  iron  and  its  tincture  are  adapted  to  cases  requiring  the  use  of  mild  chalybeates,  and 
their  taste  renders  them  suitable  to  children  and  fastidious  females.  They  do  not  stain 
the  teeth.  The  former  is  recommended  to  be  given  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.20-0.30  (4  or  5 
grains),  and  the  latter  in  doses  of  Gm.  1.20  (20  or  more  drops). 

In  this  place  may  perhaps  be  most  conveniently  mentioned  the  relative  value  of  different 
preparations  of  iron  used  by  subcutaneous  injection.  The  experiments  of  Neuss  upon 
this  subject  led  him  to  the  following  conclusions:  “The  citro-sodic  pyrophosphate  of 
iron  is  superior  to  all  other  preparations  of  iron  for  this  purpose.  It  contains  26.6  per 
cent,  of  iron,  is  soluble  in  6 parts  of  distilled  water,  causes  no  annoyance,  and  may  be 
detected  in  the  urine  within  half  an  hour.  Next  in  value  comes  Friedlander’s  albuminate, 
which  contains  less  iron,  however,  and  is  more  apt  to  undergo  decomposition.  After 
these  must  be  ranked  pyrophosphate  of  iron  with  citrate  of  ammonia,  which,  at  least  in 
one  patient  out  of  three,  occasioned  considerable  irritation.  According  to  these  experi- 
ments the  following  compounds  are  unfit  for  hypodermic  use : the  oxycitrate  of  iron,  the 
citrate  of  iron  and  quinine,  the  soluble  saccharate  of  iron  oxide,  and  dialyzed  iron 
(glycerinated)  ” ( Zeitschrift  f Min . Med.,  iii.  9).  Rosenthal  has  recommended  the  pep- 
tonate  and  also  the  oleate  of  iron  for  subcutaneous  use  ( ibid .,  viii.  95). 

The  special  therapeutical  uses  of  Ferri  oxalas  are  not  generally  recognized,  but 
according  to  Hayem,  whose  authority  cannot  be  doubted,  it  is  preferable  to  all  other 
ferruginous  compounds  ( Bull . de  Therap .,  cxviii.  538).  ? The  dose  is  stated  to  be  Gm. 
0.10-0.15  (gr.  ii-iij). 

FERRUM  REDUCTUM,  U.  S.,  T.  Reduced  Iron. 

Ferrum  redactum , Br. ; Ferrum  hydrogenio  reductum , Ferrum  ope  hydrogenii  paratum. 
— Iron  reduced  by  hydrogen , Iron  by  hydrogen , E.  ; Fer  reduit  par  l' hydrogene , Fr.  ; Redu- 
cirtcs  Eisen , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Strong  Solution  of  Perchloride  of  Iron,  Solution  of  Ammo- 
nia. Zinc  (granulated),  Sulphuric  Acid,  Calcium  Chloride,  Distilled  Water,  of  each  a 
sufficiency.  Dilute  the  solution  of  iron  with  5 volumes  of  water;  pour  the  mixture  into 
such  a quantity  of  solution  of  ammonia,  diluted  with  5 volumes  of  water,  that  the  whole 
after  thorough  stirring  has  a distinct  odor  of  ammonia.  Wash  the  precipitate  until  the 
washings  are  no  longer  rendered  cloudy  by  solution  of  silver  nitrate.  Dry  the  precip- 
itate and  introduce  the  resulting  ferric  oxyhydrate  into  an  iron  tube,  confining  it  to  the 
middle  part  of  the  tube  by  plugs  of  asbestos.  Pass  the  tube  through  a furnace,  and 
when  it  has  been  raised  to  a strong  but  not  bright  red  heat  cause  it  to  be  traversed  by  a 
stream  of  hydrogen  gas  developed  by  the  action  on  the  zinc  of  some  of  the  sulphuric 
acid  diluted  with  eight  times  its  volume  of  water.  The  gas  before  entering  the  tube 
must  be  rendered  quite  dry  by  being  made  to  pass  first  through  the  remainder  of  the 
sulphuric  acid,  and  then  through  a tube  18  inches  long  packed  with  small  fragments  of 
the  calcium  chloride.  The  farther  end  of  the  tube  is  to  be  connected  by  a cork  with  a 
bent  tube  dipping  under  water,  and  when  the  hydrogen  is  observed  to  pass  through  the 
water  at  the  same  rate  that  it  bubbles  through  the  sulphuric  acid  the  furnace  is  to  be 
allowed  to  cool  down  to  the  temperature  of  the  atmosphere,  a slow  current  of  hydrogen 
being  still  continued.  The  reduced  iron  is  then  to  be  withdrawn  and  enclosed  in  a dry, 
stoppered  bottle. — Br. 

The  present  process  differs  merely  in  the  use  of  freshly-prepared  peroxide  of  iron, 
and  in  all  essential  details  is  identical  with  the  one  of  the  U.  S.  P.  1876,  which 
was  elaborated  by  Prof.  Procter.  The  drying  of  the  hydrogen  is  unnecessary,  but  pro- 


750 


EERRTJM  REDUCTUM. 


vision  must  be  made  to  prevent  tlie  acid  liquid  in  which  hydrogen  is  generated  from  being 
mechanically  carried  over  ; this  is  effected  by  passing  the  gas  through  an  empty  vessel 
before  it  enters  the  reduction-tube,  or  through  basic  lead  acetate,  which  will  retain  also 
gaseous  impurities  with  which  the  hydrogen  may  be  contaminated  from  impurities  of  the 
zinc  or  acid.  The  reduction-tube,  we  think,  should  be  filled  with  hydrogen  gas  before  it 
is  heated  to  redness,  and  the  heat  is  best  kept  at  dull  redness,  so  as  to  obtain  the  metal 
in  a finely-divided  state,  and  not  more  or  less  granular,  which  would  result  from  carrying 
on  the  operation  at  a bright-red  heat.  At  the  high  temperature  the  ferric  hydroxide  is 
converted  into  ferric  oxide,  and  this  is  decomposed  by  the  hydrogen,  with  the  liberation 
of  iron  and  the  production  of  water;  Fe203  -}-  3H2  yields  Fe2  and  3H20.  That  the 
reduction  has  been  completed  is  ascertained  from  the  absence  of  aqueous  vapor  in  the 
bubbles  breaking  through  the  water,  or  from  the  uniform  rapidity  with  which  the  bubbles 
pass  both  through  the  water  and  through  the  liquid  placed  between  the  generator  and 
reduction-tube.  After  the  fire  is  withdrawn  the  reduced  iron  would  burn  again  to  ferric 
oxide  if  it  were  allowed  to  come  into  contact  with  oxygen  while  warm  ; the  hydrogen 
must  therefore  be  continually  passed  through  the  reduction-tube  until  the  temperature 
has  been  lowered  to  that  of  the  surrounding  atmosphere.  Using  2 pounds  of  ferric 
hydroxide,  the  process  occupies  from  five  to  eight  hours.  It  is  scarcely  necessary  to 
state  that  the  ferric  hydroxide  should  have  been  well  washed. 

Various  other  methods  have  been  suggested  for  obtaining  reduced  iron,  but  they  do 
not  appear  to  be  used  on  a large  scale.  For  reduction  in  a current  of  hydrogen  Peligot 
(1844)  proposed  ferrous  chloride,  and  Woehler  (1855)  ferrous  oxalate,  or  an  oxide 
obtained  by  strongly  heating  a mixture  of  ferrous  sulphate  and  sodium  chloride  and 
washing  out  the  soluble  salt.  A.  Morgan  (1854)  recommended  the  calcination  of  a mix- 
ture of  ferric  oxide,  potassium  ferrocyanide,  and  potassium  carbonate,  each  previously 
deprived  of  water.  Zaengerle  (1857)  used  ferrous  oxalate  instead  of  ferric  oxide.  After 
cooling,  the  mass  requires  to  be  well  washed  and  dried.  The  metallic  iron  reduced  by 
electricity  from  ferrous  sulphate  (Boettger,  1846),  or  from  ferrous  chloride  (Collas),  has 
no  advantage  over  that  prepared  with  hydrogen. 

Properties. — Reduced  iron  is  a very  fine  gray  (grayish-black,  U.  S.,  Br. ) powder, 
free  from  metallic  lustre,  but  exhibiting  metallic  streaks  when  rubbed  with  firm  pressure 
in  a mortar,  and  yielding  a lustrous  scale  when  struck  on  an  anvil  with  a hammer.  It  is 
without  odor  or  taste,  and  is  not  altered  in  dry  air,  but  is  gradually  oxidized  and  becomes 
rust-colored  in  a damp  atmosphere,  and  when  touched  with  a lighted  taper  ignites  and  is 
converted  into  black  ferroso-ferric  oxide.  It  is  strongly  attracted  by  a magnet,  and  is 
insoluble  in  all  simple  solvents,  but  is  wholly  dissolved  by  dilute  hydrochloric  or  sul- 
phuric acid,  with  the  evolution  of  hydrogen,  the  solution  showing  the  reactions  of  ferrous 
salts. 

Tests. — On  treating  reduced  iron  with  diluted  hydrochloric  acid,  the  undissolved 
residue  should  not  weigh  more  than  1 per  cent,  (carbon),  U.  S.,  P.  G.  The  hydrogen 
should  be  free  from  noxious  odor,  and  should  not  impart  a black  color  to  filtering-paper 
moistened  with  solution  of  lead  acetate  and  stretched  over  the  orifice  of  the  test-tube ; 
the  black  color  would  be  due  to  the  presence  of  sulphur,  resulting  from  the  sulphate 
which  remains  in  incompletely-washed  ferric  hydroxide.  The  solution  in  hydrochloric 
acid  should  not  assume  a red  color  when  tested  with  potassium  sulphocyanate  (absence 
of  ferric  or  magnetic  oxide).  The  presence  of  magnetic  oxide  is  also  indicated  by  the 
black  instead  of  gray  color  of  the  powder.  “ If  1 Gm.  of  reduced  iron  be  shaken  with 
5 Cc.  of  water,  the  liquid  should  not  change  the  color  of  litmus-paper.  If  0.5  Gm.  of 
reduced  iron  be  added  to  5 Cc.  of  arsenic-free  hydrochloric  acid,  and  the  mixture  be 
poured  upon  a filter  while  still  effervescing,  1 Cc.  of  the  clear  filtrate  should,  after  the 
addition  of  2 Cc.  of  stannous  chloride  test-solution,  together  with  a small  piece  of  pure 
tin-foil,  and  gentle  heating,  show  no  brown  coloration  within  half  an  hour  (limit  of 
arsenic).  Introduce  0.56  (0.559)  Gm.  of  reduced  iron  into  a glass-stoppered  bottle,  add 
50  Cc.  of  mercuric  chloride  test-solution,  and  heat  the  bottle,  well  stoppered,  during  one 
hour  on  a water-bath,  frequently  agitating.  Then  allow  it  to  cool,  dilute  the  contents 
with  water  to  the  volume  of  100  Cc.,  and  filter.  To  10  Cc.  of  the  filtrate,  contained  in 
a glass-stoppered  bottle  (having  a capacity  of  about  100  Cc.),  add  10  Cc.  of  diluted  sul- 
phuric acid,  and  subsequently  decinormal  potassium  permanganate  solution,  until  a per- 
manent red  color  is  produced.  The  number  of  Cc.  of  the  volumetric  solution  required, 
when  multiplied  by  ten  (10),  will  indicate  the  percentage  of  metallic  iron.  To  confirm 
the  assay,  decolorize  the  liquid  by  a few  drops  of  alcohol,  then  add  1 Gm.  of  potassium 
iodide,  and  digest  for  half  an  hour  at  a temperature  of  40°  C.  (104°  F.).  The  cooled 


FICUS. 


751 


solution,  mixed  with  a few  drops  of  starch  test-solution,  should  require  not  less  than  8 
Cc.  of  decinormal  sodium  thiosulphate  solution  to  discharge  the  blue  or  greenish  color 
(each  Cc.  of  the  volumetric  solution  indicating  10  per  cent,  of  metallic  iron).” — U.  B. 

The  reactions  in  the  foregoing  test  involve,  first,  reduction  of  mercuric  to  mercurous 
chloride  with  formation  of  ferrous  chloride,  which  enters  into  solution,  2HgCl2  + Fe  = 
FeCl2  + Hg2Cl2,  the  ferrous  chloride  is  then  oxidized  by  means  of  potassium  perman- 
ganate and  converted  into  ferric  chloride,  and  this  is  finally  determined  iodometrically, 
as  explained  under  Ferric  chloride.  The  U.  S.  P.,  as  stated  in  the  test,  requires  at 
least  80  per  cent,  of  metallic  iron  ; the  Germ.  Ph.  requires  at  least  90  per  cent,  by  the 
same  test. 

Treated  with  iodine  or  bromine,  dissolved  in  solution  of  potassium  iodide  or  bromide, 
the  black  oxide  remains  behind,  and  its  weight  should  not  exceed  50  per  cent. ; this 
residue  should  be  completely  soluble  in  hydrochloric  acid. — Br. 

Mr.  Creuse  (. Proc . Amer.  Phar.  Assoc.,  1874,  p.  435)  suggested  to  determine  the 
amount  of  pure  iron  from  the  measure  of  the  hydrogen  given  off;  the  presence  of  oxides, 
however,  appears  to  interfere  with  the  correctness  of  the  results.  Schacht  (1877)  regards 
the  following  as  sufficient  evidence  of  purity  : It  is  “ a very  fine  gray  powder  without 
gloss ; when  heated  in  the  air  it  burns  to  ferric  oxide.  It  is  completely  soluble  in  warm 
diluted  pure  hydrochloric  acid,  with  the  evolution  of  hydrogen,  which  is  indifferent  to 
lead-paper.  When  treated  for  half  an  hour,  at  the  ordinary  temperature  and  with  occa- 
sional agitation,  with  twenty-five  times  its  weight  of  solution  of  ferric  chloride  sp.  gr. 
1.30,  it  is  completely  dissolved.” 

Ferrum  pulveratum,  s.  alcoholisatum,  s.  porphyrisatum,  P.  G .,  or  pulverized  iron, 
may  be  mistaken  for  reduced  iron.  It  is  made  in  Europe  on  a large  scale  from  a good 
quality  of  cast  iron,  and  therefore  contains  carbon.  It  has  the  general  properties  of 
reduced  iron,  from  which  it  differs  in  being  denser,  having  a distinct  metallic  lustre,  and 
in  not  igniting  when  touched  with  a lighted  taper ; the  hydrogen  evolved  by  it  has  a 
distinct  odor,  but  should  contain  traces  only  of  hydrogen  sulphide.  The  solution  of  iron 
in  hydrochloric  acid  should  not  yield  a dark  color  or  precipitate  with  hydrogen  sulphide 
(absence  of  lead,  copper,  etc.),  and  when  oxidized  with  nitric  acid  and  treated  with 
ammonia  in  excess  the  filtrate  should  be  colorless  (copper,  etc.),  and  not  be  rendered 
turbid  by  ammonium  sulphide. 

When  tested  by  the  method  given  under  Reduced  iron,  pulverized  iron  should  con- 
tain at  least  98  per  cent,  of  pure  metallic  iron. — P.  G. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  preparation  was  originally  proposed  as  a substitute  for 
subcarbonate  of  iron.  It  was  less  bulky,  aad  therefore  more  likely  to  agree  with  the 
stomach  ; but  not  improbably  there  happened  in  this  case  what  has  often  been  observed 
when  the  nutritious  elements  of  food  are  substituted  for  those  forms  of  it  which  Nature 
has  provided.  In  point  of  fact,  it  is  even  more  likely  to  derange  the  stomach  than  the 
preparation  mentioned,  partly  on  account  of  the  impurities  it  sometimes  contains  to  the 
extent  of  50  per  cent.,  and  partly  because  it  is  very  apt  to  cause  the  formation  in  the 
stomach,  and  the  eructation,  of  sulphuretted  hydrogen.  Moreover,  when  given  in  pills 
and  pastilles  they  often  escape  the  solvent  power  of  the  digestive  juices,  and  are 
evacuated  in  the  same  form  in  which  they  were  swallowed.  The  only  way  in  which  it 
can  be  administered  with  an  assurance  of  its  solution  and  absorption  is  to  give  it  at  meal- 
times or  immediately  afterward  in  a wafer  or  suspended  in  a little  water.  It  may  be 
prescribed  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.05-0.30  (gr.  j-v). 

FICUS,  U.  S.,  Br.— Fig. 

Caricse;  Ficus  passa,  Fid,  Fructus  caricse. — Figue,  Fr. ; Feige,  G. ; Higo,  Sp, 

The  fleshy  receptacle,  bearing  fruits  upon  its  inner  surface,  of  Ficus  Carica,  Linni. 
Steph.  and  Church,  Med.  Bot.  plate  154;  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  228. 

Nat  Ord. — Urticaceae,  Artocarpese. 

Origin. — The  fig  tree  is  indignous  to  Western  Asia,  from  Asia  Minor  and  Syria  east- 
ward to  Lake  Aral,  and  has  been  under  cultivation  from  a very  remote  period.  At 
present  it  is  cultivated  in  most  countries  of  the  Old  and  New  Worlds  which  lie  in  the 
warmer  temperate  regions,  in  many  of  which  it  is  also  found  wild.  It  attains  a height 
of  about  7.5  M.  (25  feet),  is  irregularly  branched,  has  rough  palmately-lobed,  irregularly- 
toothed  subcordate  leaves,  in  the  axils  of  which  appear  the  fleshy  hollow  receptacles, 
upon  the  inner  surface  of  which  the  minute  flowers  are  situated,  the  few  staminate 
flowers  being  placed  near  the  mouth. 


752 


FCENICUL  TIM. 


Description. — The  receptacle,  erroneously  called  fruit,  is  pear-shaped,  short-stalked, 

or  with  a circular  stalk-scar  at  the  base,  and  about 
75  M.  (3  inches)  long;  in  the  green  state  it  con- 
tains a milky,  acrid  juice,  which  changes  to  sac- 
charine, the  color  of  the  receptacle  becoming  yel- 
lowish and  purplish.  The  orifice  is  surrounded 
by  several  fleshy  scales,  and  the  greater  portion 
of  the  inner  surface  is  covered  in  the  ripe  fig  by 
numerous  small  yellowish  akenes,  popularly  called 
seeds.  Figs  have  a peculiar  fruity  odor  and  a 
very  sweet  somewhat  mucilaginous  taste.  A 
warm  and  dry  climate  is  best  adapted  for  grow- 
ing figs  with  the  view  of  preserving  them  in  the 
dry  state. 

They  are  dried  either  by  artificial  heat  or  by 
exposure  to  the  sun,  and  packed  in  this  condition 
(natural  figs'),  or  they  are  rendered  pliant  by 
kneading  and  squeezing,  and  then  packed  and 
pressed  into  boxes  ( pulled  figs').  In  the  latter 
condition  they  are  always  of  a very  irregular 
shape,  yellowish,  somewhat  translucent,  and  cov- 
ered with  effloresced  sugar.  The  large  puffy  figs 
are  known  as  Turkey  or  Smyrna  figs , the  small 
and  dried  ones  as  Greek  figs.  In  Italy  the  early 
figs  which  appear  in  the  axils  of  the  previous 
year’s  leaf  scars  are  known  as  grossi  and  orni , while  those  produced  in  the  axils  of  leaves 
are  known  as  forniti  or  as  cratiri , the  latter  name  being  given  to  those  which  ripen  after 
the  fall  of  the  leaves. 

Constituents. — Exclusive  of  the  akenes,  which,  together  with  the  cellular  tissue,  Bley 
(1831)  found  to  constitute  about  15  per  cent,  of  the  weight  of  figs,  he  obtained  16  percent,  of 
water,  62.5  per  cent,  of  sugar  (glucose),  the  remainder  being  gum,  fat,  and  saline  constituents. 

Allied  Plants. — Brosimum  alicastrum,  Swartz.  This  large  tree  bears  a globular  fruit  of  the 
size  of  a nutmeg,  imbedded  in  the  receptacle.  The  seeds  are  known  in  Jamaica  as  bread-nuts , 
and  have  a taste  resembling  that  of  chestnuts.  The  milk-juice  of  old  branches  is  acrid. 

Brosimum  Galactodendron,  Don , s.  Galactodendron  utile,  Kunth , is  the  cow  tree,  palo  de  vaca, 
or  palo  de  leche , of  tropical  America.  On  making  incisions  into  the  bark  it  yields  a milk-juice 
which  resembles,  and  is  used  like,  cow’s  milk ; this  contains,  according  to  Boussingault,  58  per 
cent,  of  water  and  42  per  cent,  of  fixed  matter,  the  latter  consisting  of  wax  and  fat  32.2,  sugar 
2.8,  proteids  1.7,  salts  0.5,  and  undetermined  substances  1.8  parts. 

Artocarpus  incisa,  Linn£,  is  indigenous  to  the  Moluccas  and  the  islands  of  the  Southern 
Pacific.  The  nearly-ripe  pistillate  inflorescence,  known  as  bread-fruit , forms  a globular  sorosis 
about  6 inches  (15  Cm.)  in  diameter,  and  consists  of  a mealy  and  spongy  receptacle  in  which  the 
oblong  angular  akenes  are  imbedded.  A similar  product,  known  as  jack-fruit , is  yielded  by 
Artocarpus  integrifolia,  Linn6 ; it  is  nearly  pear-shaped,  and  is  largely  used  in  India  and  the 
East  Indian  islands. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  saccharine  and  mucilaginous  constituents  of  figs  render 
them  nutritive,  and  in  their  fresh  state  laxative.  The  latter  operation  of  dried  figs  is 
mainly  due  to  the  indigestibility  of  their  seeds  and  tough  skins,  which  also  tend  to  occa 
sion  flatulence.  They  form  an  agreeable  addition  to  the  various  ptisans  employed  in 
catarrhal  affections  of  the  air-passages  and  other  mucous  canals,  and  roasted  figs  have 
from  time  immemorial  formed  convenient  cataplasms  for  gum-boils , abscesses  of  the  anus, 
vulva,  etc.  (Isaiah  xxxviii.  21).  It  is  stated  by  Billroth  that  poultices  made  with  dried 
figs  and  milk  neutralized  th e fetor  of  cancerous  and  other  ulcers  which  resisted  all  the 
usual  deodorizers  (Med.  Record , xix.  308). 


Fig.  124. 


Ficus  carica,  Linne ; a,  section  of  fig  b,  stami- 
nate  flower ; c,  pistillate  flower. 


FCENICULUM,  V . Fennel. 

Fceniculi  fructus,  Br.  ; Fructus  foeniculi,  P.  G.  ; Semen  foeniculi. — Fennel-fruit,  Fennel- 
seed,  E.  ; Fenouil , Fr.  ; Fenchel,  G.  ; Hinojo , Sp. 

The  fruit  of  Foeniculum  capillaceum  Gilibert  (s.  F.  officinale,  Allioni , s.  F.  vulgare, 
Gaertner,  s.  Anethum  (Meum,  SprengeT)  Foeniculum,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med. 
Plants , 123. 

Nat.  Ord. — Umbelliferae,  Orthospermae, 


FCENUM  GR2ECUM. 


753 


Fig.  125. 


Fceniculum:  fruit,  3 
diameters;  trans- 
verse section,  8 di- 
ameters. 


Origin. — The  fennel  is  indigenous  to  Southern  Europe,  and  is  frequently  found  wild 
in  Western  and  South-eastern  Europe  and  in  Western  Asia.  Com- 
merce is  mainly  supplied  with  the  fruit  from  Germany  and  France, 
where  the  plant  is  extensively  cultivated.  It  is  an  herbaceous  annual 
or  perennial,  varying  in  cultivation  considerably  in  size  and  in  its 
fruit.  The  stem  is  0.9— 1.8  M.  (3  to  to  6 feet)  high,  somewhat  fur- 
rowed, green,  and  glaucous  ; the  leaves  are  decompound  or  twice- 
pinnate,  with  the  pinnae  very  narrow  ; the  umbels  are  at  the  top  of 
the  stem  or  branches,  compound,  large,  and  without  involucre  or 
involucel.  All  parts  have  an  agreeable,  aromatic  odor  and  a sweetish- 
aromatic  taste. 

Description. — Fennel-fruit  is  about  4 to  8 Mm.  (i  to  ^ inch) 
long,  oblong  in  shape,  nearly  cylindrical,  and  readily  splitting  at  matur- 
ity into  the  two  mericarps,  which  often  become  somewhat  curved.  The  face  is  broad  and 
flat,  the  back  rounded,  and  has  five  prominent  obtuse  ribs  of  a light-brown  color,  the 
intervening  furrows  being  almost  blackish-brown.  There  are  usually  six  oil-tubes,  one 
under  each  furrow,  and  two,  or  in  some  varieties  two  pairs,  on  the  face.  The  odor  and 
taste  of  fennel  are  agreeably  sweetish-aromatic  and  anise-like. 

The  commercial  varieties  are  Saxon  or  German  fennel , which  is  about  J inch  (6  Mm.) 
long  and  of  a brownish  tint ; and  Roman  fennel , which  is  nearly  twice  as  large,  mostly 
strongly  curved,  of  a distinct  greenish  tint,  with  broader  and  rather  sharper  ribs,  and  of 
.a  stronger  and  more  pleasant  odor.  The  latter  is  often  referred  to  Foen.  dulce,  Be  Can- 
dolle, but  appears  to  be  merely  a variety  of  F.  vulgare,  produced  by  cultivation. 

Fennel-root  is  somewhat  employed  in  Europe.  It  is  15  to  25  Cm.  (6  to  10  inches) 
long,  above  nearly  25  Mm.  (one  inch)  thick,  several  headed,  cylindrical,  little-branched, 
but  beset  with  numerous  thin  and  wrinkled  radicles.  The  root  is  externally  light- 
brown,  annulate,  and  longitudinally  wrinkled,  internally  white ; the  bark  thick,  fleshy, 
with  several  circles  of  brown  resin-cells,  and  the  meditullium  yellowish  and  radially  stri- 
ate. It  has  an  aromatic  odor  and  a sweet  fennel-like  taste. 

Constituents. — Fennel  contains  about  12.5  per  cent,  of  fixed  oil,  some  sugar,  and 
from  2 to  4 per  cent,  of  volatile  oil,  to  which  the  sweet  taste  of  the  fruit  is  chiefly  due. 
(See  Oleum  FtENicuLi.)  The  root  contains  a small  quantity  of  volatile  oil,  more  sugar, 
and  considerable  starch. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Syrupus  fceniculi. — Syrup  of  fennel,  E. — Digest  for  3 
hours  2 parts  of  bruised  fennel  with  12  parts  of  hot  water  in  a closed  vessel,  and  dissolve 
in  10  parts  of  the  infusion  18  parts  of  sugar. — P.  G.  1872. 

Action  and  Uses. — Employed  by  the  ancients  as  a carminative  and  digestive 
stimulant  and  to  promote  the  secretions,  it  continues  to  be  used  for  like  purposes  at  the 
present  day.  It  is  still  alleged  to  increase  the  secretion  of  milk,  urine,  perspiration,  and 
mucus,  and  to  be  an  active  emmenagogue.  It  is  most  commonly  used  as  an  ingredient 
of  carminative  compounds  or  in  a simple  infusion  for  the  relief  of  nausea  and  coUc.  It 
is  very  appropriate  in  hot  infusion,  as  an  adjuvant,  in  the  treatment  of  amenorrlicea  from 
uterine  congestion  and  for  re-establishing  the  lacteal  secretion  when  suppressed  An 
infusion  of  fennel  may  be  made  with  Gm.  4 (gr.  lx)  of  the  bruised  seed  in  Gm.  250 
(4-  a pint)  of  boiling  water.  Of  this  a teaspoonful  may  be  given  at  short  intervals  to  an 
infant  and  a wineglassful  to  an  adult. 


FCENUM  GR^ECUM.— Fenugreek. 

Semen  fstnugrseci , P.  G.  ; Fenugrec , Senegrain , Fr. ; Bockshornsamen , G.  ; Alholva , Sp. 

The  seeds  of  Trigonella  Foenum  graecum,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants ., 

71. 

Nat.  Ord. — Leguminosae,  Papilionaceae. 

Origin. — Fenugreek  is  an  annual  herb  indigenous  to  Western  Asia  and  naturalized  in 
India,  Eastern  and  Northern  Africa,  and  Southern  Europe ; it  is  extensively  cultivated 
in  Asia  and  Africa.  The  plant  is  about  30  Cm.  (1  foot)  high,  nearly  simple,  has  trifo- 
liate leaves  with  articulated  obovate  or  wedge  oblong  denticulate  leaflets,  solitary  sessile 
pale  yellowish  flowers,  and  produces  linear-curved  compressed  legumes  with  a slender 
beak  and  containing  about  sixteen  seeds. 

Description. — The  seeds  are  3 Mm.  (J  inch)  long  and  broad,  2 Mm.  (y1^  inch)  thick, 
of  an  oblique  rhombic  shape,  flattened,  pale  brownish-yellow,  on  both  flat  surfaces  with 
a deep  groove  extending  in  a diagonal  direction,  very  hard,  of  a strong,  unpleasantly  aro- 
48 


754 


FRANCISCEA. 


matic  odor,  suggesting  that  of  melilot,  and  a mucilaginous  and  bitterish  taste.  The 
thin  hard  testa  encloses  a yellowish  embryo  having  a thick  radicle,  which  is  strongly 
bent  upon  the  edges  of  the  cotyledons  and  has  its  position  externally  indicated  by  the 
grooves.  The  embryo  is  surrounded  by  a colorless  hornlike  tissue,  which  is  regarded  as 
the  inner  seed-coat  or  by  some  authors  as  a thin  layer  of  albumen. 

Constituents. — Fenugreek  was  examined  by  Bassou,  who  ascertained  the  presence 
of  volatile  and  fixed  oil,  mucilage,  and  a bitter  principle  which  was  not  obtained  pure. 
*The  mucilage  is  contained  in  the  integuments  of  the  seeds,  and  amounts  to  about  28  per 
cent. ; the  fixed  oil,  about  6 per  cent.,  resides  in  the  embryo.  Jahns  obtained  3.4  per 
cent,  of  nitrogen,  which  would  indicate  22  per  cent,  of  albumen.  A small  amount  of 
tannin  is  present  in  the  testa,  but  no  starch. 

Adulterations. — Being  usually  kept  in  the  ground  condition,  fenugreek  is  liable  to 
be  adulterated  with  farinaceous  substances,  in  which  case  it  will  acquire  a blue  color  on 
the  addition  of  iodine. 

Allied  Plants. — The  seeds  of  other  species  of  Trigonella  have  similar  properties,  but  are 
much  smaller. 

Action  and  Uses. — Fcenum  grsecum  is  one  of  those  simple  medicines  which 
figured  largely  in  the  materia  medica  of  the  Greeks  and  their  successors,  and  which 
possessed  hardly  any  other  than  emollient  virtues.  Like  flaxseed,  marshmallow,  and 
slippery  elm,  it  was  used  to  prepare  cataplasms  for  inflamed  parts  and  soothing  pessaries 
for  the  uterus  and  vagina  ; its  decoction  was  similarly  employed,  and  injected  into  the 
rectum,  and  also  formed  a ptisan  for  affections  of  the  throat  and  air-passages.  Its  oil, 
like  linseed  and  olive  oil,  was  applied  to  burns,  excoriations,  etc.  It  may  be  used  in  a 
decoction  prepared  with  Gm.  30  to  Gm.  500  (gj  to  Oj).  Poultices  may  be  made  of  the 
ground  seeds. 

FRAN  OISCE  A. — Franciscea. 

Franciscea  uniflora,  Pohl. 

Nat.  Ord. — Solanaceae.  Salpiglossidese. 

Origin  and  Description. — This  shrub  is  indigenous  to  Brazil,  and,  according  to 
Martius  (1829),  is  known  there  as  manacan , and  in  some  parts  as  gerafacaca  or  cam- 
gambd  ; in  Para  it  is  called  mercurio  vegetal.  The  stem,  which  is  about  1.8  M.  (6  feet) 
high,  together  with  the  root,  has  been  introduced  under  the  name  of  manaca , and  is  seen 
in  commerce  in  pieces  15-20  Cm.  (6  or  8 inches)  long  and  6-25  Mm.  (J  to  1 inch)  thick. 
The  bark  is  quite  thin,  adheres  firmly  to  the  wood,  is  smooth  and  dark-brown,  and  on  older 
parts  scaly  and  rust-brown  ; the  wood  is  reddish-yellow,  tough  and  hard,  and  encloses  a 
thin  pith  ; the  drug  is  inodorous  and  has  a bitter  taste.  The  leaves,  which  are  also 
employed,  are  short-petioled,  about  5 Cm.  (2  inches)  long,  12  Mm.  (1  inch)  broad, 
elliptic,  acute,  entire,  and  on  the  lower  side  grayish -green.  The  bell-shaped  corolla  is 
white  and  purplish,  the  fruit  capsular,  two-celled,  and  the  seeds  somewhat  triangular  and 
finely  pitted.  White  and  red  manaca  have  been  met  with  in  commerce,  the  two  kinds 
being  probably  of  different  origin  ; and  in  some  parts  of  South  America  the  bark  of 
Piscidia  Erythrina,  Jacquin , is  said  to  be  known  as  manaca. 

Constituents. — B.  Lenardson  (1884)  analyzed  red  manaca,  which,  from  the  micro- 
scopic structure,  he  believes  may  belong  to  the  Apocynaceae.  Besides  fat,  resin,  1.07 
per  cent,  of  ash,  11.25  starch,  and  various  other  compounds,  a poisonous  alkaloid, 
manacine,  and  a fluorescent  compound  were  isolated.  The  latter  is  readily  soluble  in 
alcohol,  chloroform,  and  spirit  of  ether,  less  freely  in  water,  benzene,  and  ether,  reduces 
alkaline  copper  solution,  is  not  a glucoside,  and  is  probably  identical  with  gelsemic  acid; 
the  aqueous  solution  has  an  acid  reaction,  is  yellow  in  transmitted  light  and  blue  in 
reflected  light,  the  fluorescence  being  increased  by  ammonia.  Manacine  is  a weak  base, 
has  a slight  bitter  taste,  dialyzes  readily,  but  has  not  been  obtained  in  crystals ; it  dis- 
solves readily  in  water,  alcohol,  and  methyl  alcohol,  is  insoluble  or  nearly  so  in  other 
liquids,  is  easily  decomposed  in  solution,  with  separation  of  a brown  resin,  the  hydro- 
chloric acid  solution  being  more  stable  than  others,  and  is  precipitated  from  its  more  or 
less  concentrated  solution  by  the  reagents  for  alkaloids,  but  not  by  alkalies;  the  precipi- 
tate by  phospho-molybdic  acid  dissolves  in  potassa  with  a blue  color.  Characteristic 
color  reactions  were  not  observed.  The  alkaloid  francisceine , which  is  stated  to  have 
been  recently  extracted  from  manaca,  is  probably  the  same  as  that  just  described. 

Action  and  Uses. — In  1867,  Edmon,  who  lived  on  the  Amazon,  reported  that  at 
Para  the  flowers  of  manaca,  or  franciscea,  were  applied  to  indolent  ulcers,  and  that  a 


FRANGULA. 


755 


decoction  of  the  root  was  regarded  as  a sovereign  remedy  for  “ rheumatism.”  It  was 
given  in  a decoction,  which  at  first  produced  pains  in  the  head  and  back,  and  afterward  a 
profuse  critical  perspiration.  Manaca,  we  are  further  told,  is  in  small  doses  emeto- 
cathartic  diaphoretic  and  diuretic,  and  in  large  doses  an  acrid  poison.  It  was  employed 
not  only  in  rheumatism,  but  in  syphilis  and  other  diseases  “ in  which  mercury  is  indi- 
cated” ( Therap . Gaz.,x.  24).  This  description  suggests  the  operation  of  sarsaparilla, 
guaiacum,  and  mezereon.  From  other  sources  we  learn  that  the  “ rheumatism  ” here 
spoken  of  was  the  muscular  and  tendinous  form  of  the  disease,  and  also  that  the  whole 
plant,  but  the  root  especially,  acts  as  an  irritant  of  the  stomach  and  bowels,  causing 
vomiting  and  purging,  abortion  in  pregnancy,  and  even  death  {Robert's  Jahrcsbericht, 
1885,  p.  310). 

Franciscea  has  been  employed  almost  exclusively  in  the  treatment  of  “ rheumatism,” 
but  the  reporters  have  not  always  distinguished  between  muscular  and  articular  rheuma- 
tism, nor  between  the  acute  and  chronic  forms  of  both,  between  the  simple  and  the 
syphilitic  forms,  etc.,  nor  between  the  effects  of  the  medicine  and  the  natural  tendency 
of  the  disease  under  favorable  hygienic  conditions  to  get  well.  The  chief  contributors 
to  the  history  of  this  matter  are  Gottheil  {Med.  Record , xxiv.  258)  Pepper  {Therap. 
Gaz.,  Sept.,  1882),  Rogers  {ibid.,  Dec.  1884,  p.  532),  Garland  {Boston  Med.  and  Surg. 
Jour.,  July,  1885,  p.  80),  and  Caldwell  {Med.  Record,  xxvi.  31).  After  a careful  com- 
parison of  the  statements  of  these  witnesses,  we  have  reached  the  conclusion  that 
manaca  has  little  or  no  influence  on  the  course  or  issue  of  articular  rheumatism,  and 
that  it  may  be  used,  as  numberless  other  diaphoretics,  sedatives,  etc.  are  employed,  with 
more  or  less  advantage  in  the  so-called  muscular  form  of  the  disease.  The  fluid  extract 
of  manaca  may  be  given  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.60-4  (npx-f^j). 


FRANGULA,  U.  S. — Frangula. 


Fig.  126. 


Rhamni  frangulse  cortex , Br. ; Cortex  frangulse , P.  G. — Alder  buckthorn , E. ; ficorce 
de  Bourdaine , Bourgene,  Fr. ; Faulbaumrinde , G. 

The  bark  of  Rhamnus  Frangula,  Linne , s.  Frangula  vulgaris,  Reichenbach , s.  Frangula 
Alnus,  Miller , collected  at  least  one  year  before  being  used.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med. 
Plants,  65. 

Nat.  Ord. — Rhamneae. 

Origin. — The  alder  buckthorn  is  a shrub  about  3 to  4.5  M.  (10  to  15  feet)  high, 
which  grows  in  wet  places  from  the  northern  coast  of 
Africa  throughout  Europe,  and  extending  eastward  into 
Siberia.  It  has  alternate  elliptic,  oval,  or  obovate  entire 
leaves,  which  are  obtuse  or  slightly  pointed  at  the  apex ; 
greenish  hermaphrodite  flowers  in  axillary  clusters  of 
three  or  five,  and  red,  finally  black,  berries  of  the  size  of 
a pea  and  containing  two  or  three  roundish-angular  seeds. 

The  bark  is  collected  in  the  spring  from  the  younger 
trunks  and  large  branches.  The  Norwegian  and  the 
United  States  Pharmacopoeias  require  it  to  be  used  not 
sooner  than  a year  after  it  has  been  collected.  The  shrub 
is  also  known  in  different  parts  of  Europe  as  black  alder , 
aune  noir,  and  Schwarzerle,  which  names  are  perhaps  more 
properly  restricted  to  species  of  Alnus  (see  page  155). 

Description. — Frangula-bark  is  in  small  quills  about 
1 or  1.5  Mm.  (^U  or  y1^  inch)  thick,  externally  gray  or 
grayish-brown,  or  from  the  younger  branches  blackish- 
brown,  marked  with  numerous  small,  whitish,  transversely- 
elongated  suberous  warts ; the  inner  surface  is  smooth, 
orange-yellow  or  brownish-yellow.  When  fresh  it  has  a 
disagreeable  odor  and  taste,  but  in  the  dried  state  it  has 
scarcely  any  odor,  a sweet  and  bitterish  taste,  and  breaks 
in  the  inner  layer  with  a fibrous  fracture,  showing  the 
yellow  bast-fibres,  a greenish  middle  layer,  and  a purplish- 
colored  corky  layer.  When  moistened  with  lime-water  it 
acquires  a red  color.  With  cold  water  it  yields  a yellow, 
and  with  hot  water  a brown,  infusion,  which  is  colored 
dark-brown,  but  not  precipitated,  by  ferric  chloride. 


Frangula-bark:  transverre  section, 
magnified  80  diameters. 


756 


FRAXINUS. 


Constituents. — The  bark  was  analyzed  by  Gerber  (1828),  Binswanger  (1849),  L. 
A.  Buchner  (1853),  Casselmann  (1857),  Phipson  (1859),  and  others.  The  constituent 
which  possesses  most  interest  is  frangulin  or  rhamnoxanthin , C20H20O10,  which  is  extracted 
from  the  bark  by  carbon  disulphide  and  obtained  pure  by  recrystallization  from  alcohol 
and  ether.  It  is  a lemon. yellow  crystalline  mass  of  a slightly  silky  lustre,  without  odor 
and  taste ; by  sublimation  it  is  obtained  in  yellow  nedles.  It  is  insoluble  in  water, 
slightly  soluble  in  cold  alcohol  and  ether,  and  freely  soluble  in  alkalies,  with  a bright- 
purple  color.  It  dyes  silk,  wool,  and  cotton,  and  is  resolved  by  acids  into  sugar  and 
frangulic  acid,  C14Hi0O5.  The  bark  contains  also  a yellow  resinous  principle,  tannin,  an 
amorphous  bitter  principle  which  appears  to  have  a purgative  action,  and  various  ordi- 
nary principles.  It  yields  5 or  6 per  cent,  of  ash.  The  odor  of  the  fresh  bark  is  due  to 
a volatile  principle  which  has  not  been  isolated.  Liebermann  and  Waldstein  (1876) 
obtained  emodin , Cj5H10O5,  from  old  frangula  bark,  by  boiling  with  diluted  sulphuric  acid 
those  constituents  which  are  soluble  in  soda  and  are  reprecipitated  from  this  solution  by 
hydrochloric  acid.  Kubly’s  avornin  was  impure  frangulin. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  fresh  bark  excites  nausea,  colic,  vomiting  and  violent 
purging,  but  by  drying  it  loses  in  some  degree  its  acrid  qualities,  and  is  then  used  in 
Germany  as  a domestic  purgative.  A lad,  after  eating  and  chewing  some  of  the  berries, 
including  the  stones,  was  seized  with  vertigo,  headache,  convulsions,  unconsciousness, 
dilatation  of  the  pupil,  rapid,  full  pulse,  and  faint  respiration.  The  poisonous  effects 
were  attributed  to  hydrocyanic  acid  contained  in  the  seeds  ( Amer . Jour.  Phar .,  lviii.  252). 
It  gives  a deep-yellow  color  to  the  faeces  and  urine.  It  is  stated  to  be  employed  as  a 
substitute  for  rhubarb,  but  its  action  is  much  harsher,  and  indeed  it  may  be  ranked 
among  the  drastic  cathartics.  Its  active  properties  are  ascribed  to  frangulin,  a substance 
analogous  to  cathartin,  or  to  frangulic  acid,  which  is  said  to  be  purgative  in  the  dose  of 
1 grain.  In  Germany  frangula  is  a popular  purgative,  and  is  said  to  resemble  senna  in 
its  operation.  Dr.  Squibb  claims  that  its  action  is  milder  than  that  of  senna  or  rhubarb 
(Ephemeris,  iii.  1051)  ; that  it  is  a laxative  rather  than  a purgative,  especially  for  deli- 
cate organisms ; that  a teaspoonful  of  the  fluid  extract  at  bed-time  is  the  proper  dose  for 
temporary  costiveness ; and  that  for  habitual  constipation  20  minims  in  a little  water, 
one,  two,  or  three  times  a day,  is  the  better  dosage,  especially  for  females.  He  does 
not  recommend  it  as  an  evacuant  to  supplant  senna,  castor  oil,  etc.  A decoction  of  it  is 
sometimes  used  in  dropsy , and  the  same  preparation,  as  well  as  an  ointment  prepared 
with  the  fresh  bark,  is  employed  in  treating  the  itch.  The  decoction  may  be  prepared 
with  half  an  ounce  of  the  bark  or  Gin.  15  to  Gm.  250  (-J  a pint)  of  water,  and  given 
in  tablespoonful  doses. 


FRAXINUS.— Ash. 

Frene , Fr.  ; Esche , G.  ; Fresco , Sp. 

Nat.  Ord. — Oleaceae,  Fraxineae. 

Description. — Fraxinus  excelsior,  Linne , the  European  ash,  which  is  sometimes 
cultivated  in  the  United  States  as  a shade  tree,  attains  a height  of  30  to  45  M.  (100  to 
150  feet),  has  a straight  trunk,  a tough,  whitish,  elastic  wood,  which  is  difficult  to  split 
and  very  durable,  and  lax  racemes  of  polygamous  flowers  without  calyx  or  corolla.  The 
hark , which  is  collected  from  the  branches  in  spring,  is  in  quills  having  a gray  or  green- 
ish-gray color  externally,  numerous  small  gray  or  brownish-white  suberous  warts,  and  a 
smooth  inner  surface  of  a yellowish  or  yellowish-brown  color.  It  is  inodorous,  has  a 
bitter,  astringent  taste,  and  breaks  with  a smooth  and,  in  the  inner  layer,  fibrous  frac- 
ture. The  leaves  are  pinnate,  composed  of  eleven  or  thirteen  nearly  sessile  leaflets, 
which  are  almost  smooth,  about  5 Cm.  (2  inches)  long,  vary  in  shape  between  elliptic- 
oblong  and  oblong-lanceolate,  have  a wedge-shaped  and  entire  base,  and  are  sharply  ser- 
rate above ; in  some  varieties  the  leaves  have  a crisp  margin  or  a whitish  or  variegated 
color.  The  fruit  is  a linear-oblong  samara  about  37  Mm.  (II  inches)  long  and  6 Mm. 
(i  inch)  broad,  brownish,  round  at  the  base,  at  the  apex  extended  into  a long  many- 
nerved,  somewhat  oblique  wing,  and  contains  a single  pendulous  seed  having  an  astringent, 
bitter,  and  acrid  taste. 

Fraxinus  Americana,  Linne , s.  Fr.  alba,  Marsh , s.  Fr.  epiptera,  Michaux , the 
North  American  white  ash , is  a handsome  forest  tree  growing  from  Nova  Scotia  south- 
ward to  the  Mexican  Gulf  and  westward  to  Lake  Superior  and  Eastern  Kansas.  It 
attains  a height  of  18  to  24  M.  (60  to  80  feet),  has  a durable,  tough  wood,  seven  or  nine 
ovate-oblong,  acuminate  leaflets,  and  a terete  fruit  extended  above  into  a spatulate-linear 


FUCUS  VESICULOSUS. 


757 


wing.  The  bark,  which  has  been  employed,  is  collected  from  the  trunk  and  the  root,  the 
latter  being  preferred.  It  is  3 to  6 Mm.  (i  to  J inch)  in  thickness,  usually  freed  from 
the  corky  layer,  whitish  or  yellowish,  sometimes  brownish,  frequently  with  ridges  of  a 
warty  cork  adhering,  and  upon  the  inner  surface  yellowish  and  smooth  ; it  breaks  with  a 
very  fibrous  fracture,  and  has  a slight  aromatic  odor  and  a bitter  and  somewhat  acrid 
taste. 

Fraxinus  yiridis,  Michaux.  The  green  ash  of  North  America  is  used  in  Mexico,  the 
bark  and  leaves  being  considered  tonic  and  the  root  diuretic. 

Constituents. — The  European  ash  contains  in  the  bark  tannin,  the  bitter  glucoside 
fraxin  (see  Hippocastanum),  and  a crystalline  principle  obtained  by  Keller  by  a process 
similar  to  that  by  which  salicin  may  be  obtained  ; it  was  at  first  named  fraxinin , but  was 
recognized  as  mannit  by  Stenhouse  and  Rochleder.  Garot  (1853)  found  in  the  leaves 
calcium  malate ; and  in  addition  to  this  Gintl  and  Reinitzer  (1882)  obtained  free 
malic  acid,  tannin,  mannit,  inosit,  a little  quercitrin,  glucose,  gum,  and  volatile  oil  of 
the  formula  C10H20O2.  Mouchon’s  fraxinit  is  extract-like  and  said  to  be  purgative.  The 
fruit  contains,  according  to  Keller,  a green  oil  of  a disagreeable  odor,  an  acrid  resin, 
a bitter  principle,  tannin,  and  mucilaginous  matter. 

The  white-ash  hark , examined  by  Howard  M.  Edwards  (1882),  contains  a mild  aromatic 
volatile  oil,  an  alkaloid  which  has  not  been  investigated,  resin,  starch,  sugar,  and  coloring 
matter  producing  a blue-black  color  with  ferric  chloride.  J.  M.  Bradford  (1882)  believes 
that  tannin  is  also  present. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Extractum  fraxini  Americans.  Made  with  alcohol, 
the  yield  is  about  22  per  cent. ; with  weaker  alcohol  30  to  32  per  cent,  of  extract  may  be 
obtained. 

Extractum  fraxini  Americans  fluidum.  Edwards  proposed  as  the  menstruum 
alcohol  containing  20  per  cent,  of  glycerin ; it  is  of  a blackish-red  color. 

Vinum  fraxini  Americans  has  been  made  by  T.  S.  Wiegand  (1882)  with  sherry 
wine,  and  represents  4 troyounces  of  the  bark  in  the  pint. 

Action  and  Uses. — No  accurate  description  of  the  operation  of  this  medicine  has 
been  published.  Infusions  of  the  leaves  are  said  to  be  either  diaphoretic  or  diuretic. 
The  bark  at  one  time  enjoyed  a certain  vogue  in  Europe  as  a remedy  for  intermittent 
fever , and  there  seems  to  be  no  doubt  that  it  was  often  used  with  success  in  cases  which 
had  proved  rebellious  to  cinchona,  so  that  it  may  be  included  in  the  large  class  of  suc- 
cedanea  for  Peruvian  bark  and  its  derivatives.  The  leaves  are  more  or  less  purgative, 
and  are  said  to  operate  like  senna,  but  their  more  important  use  appears  to  have  been  in 
the  treatment  of  gout.  There  seems  to  be  conclusive  evidence  of  their  efficacy  when 
administered  in  an  infusion  made  with  Gm.  2 (30  grains)  of  the  leaves  in  half  a pint  of 
water,  strained  and  sweetened,  and  taken  twice  or  thrice  daily.  A similar  method  is  said 
to  have  been  successful  in  articular  rheumatism  (Pouget  and  Peyraud.  Amer.  Jour,  of  Med. 
Sci.,  April,  1853,  p.  492).  According  to  Pliny,  serpents  will  avoid  even  the  shadow  of 
the  ash,  and  he  affirms  as  of  his  own  knowledge  that  if  a snake  is  enclosed  in  a circle  of 
ash-leaves  in  the  centre  of  which  is  burning  coals,  it  will  plunge  into  the  fire  rather  than 
touch  the  leaves.  A similar  fact  or  superstition  exists  in  regard  to  the  white  ash  (F. 
afnericana).  On  the  land  where  it  grows  no  rattlesnake  will  be  found,  “ and  it  is  the 
practice  of  hunters  and  others  having  occasion  to  traverse  the  woods  in  the  summer 
months  to  stuff  their  boots  or  shoes  with  white-ash  leaves  as  a preventive  of  the  bite 
of  the  rattlesnake.”  We  have  several  times  known  this  precaution  to  be  taken  with 
full  faith  in  its  efficacy.  A vinous  preparation  of  the  white  ash  is  alleged  to  be  useful 
in  dysmenorrhcea  and  associated  uterine  disorders. 

Of  Chionanthns  virginica , says  Griffith,  the  root-bark  is  tonic  and  febrifuge,  with  some 
acro-narcotic  properties  which  gave  the  shrub  the  name  of  poison  ash  ; this  bark  is  used 
in  a cataplasm  as  an  application  to  wounds  and  ulcers.  Porcber  states  that  he  has  heard 
it  spoken  of  as  diuretic  and  as  a lotion  for  yaws  and  ulcers  occurring  in  native  Africans. 
More  recently  it  has  been  described  as  purgative  and  cholagogue  (Henning,  Therap. 
Gaz.,  x.  230).  The  leaves  and  bark  of  Ligustrum  vulgare , or  privet,  were  formerly  used 
as  astringents  in  diarrhoea , haemorrhage , sore  mouth , sore  throat,  etc.  The  leaves  of  L. 
alalerinus , as  well  as  of  L.  vulgare , have  been  used  to  repress  the  secretion  of  milk. 


FUCUS  VESICULOSUS.— Bladder-wrack. 

Quercus  marina. — Sea-wrack,  Kelp-ware , Blacktang,  Cut-weed , E. ; Varech  vesiculeux , 
Fr.  Cod. ; Blasentang,  Seetang,  Meereiche , G. ; Encina  de  mar , Fuco  avejigado,  Sp. 


758 


FUMARIA. 


Fucus  vesiculosus,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  304. 

Mat.  Ord. — Algae,  Fucoideae. 

Description. — It  grows  on  the  rocky  shores  of  the  North  Atlantic  and  of  the  North 
Pacific  Ocean,  attains  a length  of  0.6  to  1.2  M.  (2-4  feet),  and  has  a flat  branching 


Fig.  127. 


Fucus  vesiculosus ; fruiting  branch,  natural  size. 


thallus  12  to  25  Mm.  (J-l  inch)  wide,  with  the  margin  entire  and  a distinct  midrib 
through  its  entire  length.  The  air-vesicles  are  usually  in  pairs,  separated  by  the  midrib, 
spherical  or  oblong  in  shape,  and  occasionally  attaining  the  size  of  a hazel-nut.  The 
reproductive  organs  are  found  at  the  ends  of  the  branches,  forming  more  or  less  elongated 
receptacles,  with  many  spherical  conceptacles  containing  the  numerous  minute  oblong 
antheridia  and  few  larger  globose  sporangia.  In  the  fresh  state  bladder-wrack  is  of  a 
brownish-green  color,  which  becomes  nearly  black  on  drying.  It  has  the  peculiar  odor 
of  sea-weeds  and  a mucilaginous  and  saline  taste. 

Allied  Species. — Fucus  nodosus,  Linnd  (Fucodium  nodosum,  Agardh ),  is  1.2  to  1.8  M.  (4-6 
feet)  long,  and  has  a narrower  frond  or  thallus  without  midrib,  and  with  single  vesicles,  which 
are  ovate  or  oblong,  and  usually  large. 

Fucus  serratus,  Linne,  has  a veined  and  serrate  frond  without  vesicles. 

Fucus  siliquosus,  Linnd,  s.  Cystoseira  (Ilalidrys,  Lyngbye ) siliquosa,  Agardh.  The  frond  is 
very  narrow,  0.6  to  1 .2  M.  (2-4  feet)  long,  with  short  branches,  articulated  vesicles  of  a pod-like 
appearance,  and  lanceolate  flattened  tubercular  fructification.  This  and  the  preceding  species 
are  permitted  by  the  French  Codex  to  be  employed  in  the  place  of  F.  vesiculosus. 

Fucus  natans,  Linn6,  s.  Sargassum  bacciferum,  Agardh , is  the  Gulf-weed  of  the  Atlantic 
Ocean,  and  is  often  found  in  immense  masses  floating  in  the  sea.  The  frond  is  terete,  and  has 
linear  and  serrate  branches  and  globular  aculeate  and  stipitate  vesicles  of  the  size  of  a pea. 

Constituents. — These  plants  are  very  similar  in  composition.  They  contain  muci- 
lage, mannit,  odorous  oil,  a bitter  principle,  and  between  14  and  20  per  cent,  of  ash,  cal- 
culated for  the  dried  plant.  Godeschen,  James,  and  others  found  the  mineral  constitu- 
ents of  the  bladder-wrack,  as  collected  from  different  places,  to  vary  to  the  same  extent. 
Marchand  (1865)  obtained  from  the  ash  of  the  bladder-wrrack  0.719  per  cent,  of  iodine 
and  0.603  of  bromine,  and  from  F.  serratus  0.834  iodine  and  1.007  bromine.  Frisby 
(1880)  obtained  from  anhydrous  bladder-wrack  .72  per  cent,  iodine,  .84  bromine,  and  .47 
chlorine ; the  ash  amounted  to  15.9  per  cent. 

Action  and  -Uses. — The  medicinal  virtues  of  F.  vesiculosus  depend  apparently 
upon  the  iodine  and  bromine  which  it  contains  in  common  with  the  allied  species  of 
sea-weed.  It  has  been  applied  externally,  bruised,  to  enlarged  scrofulous  glands,  and 
internally  it  was  at  one  time  recommended  as  a means  of  lessening  obesity.  It  was 
administered  chiefly  in  a decoction  made  with  from  Gm.  8 to  16  (317 — iv)  of  the  plant 
in  a pint  of  water,  and  was  alleged  not  to  occasion  atrophy  of  the  mammae  or  testes, 
while  it  reduced  the  fat  in  a notable  degree.  For  this  purpose  it  had  a brief  vogue,  but 
is  now  almost  forgotten. 

FUMARIA.— Fumitory. 

Fumeterre,  Fr. ; Erdrauch,  Feldraute , G. ; Hiel  de  tierra , Pajarilla,  Sp. 

Fumaria  officinalis,  Linne. 


FUNGUS  CHIRURGORUM. 


759 


Nat.  Ord. — Fuuiariaceae. 

Description. — Fumitory  is  a low  annual  about  30  Cm.  (12  inches)  high,  and  is  com- 
mon in  the  fields  throughout  Europe  and  more  or  less  naturalized  in  most  civilized  coun- 
tries. The  entire  plant  is  of  a glaucous  gray-green  color ; the  stem  is  angular  and  much 
branched  ; the  leaves  are  alternate,  finely-dissected,  compound,  with  spatulate  or  obovate- 
oblong  rather  acute  lobes;  the  flowers  are  in  terminal  and  axillary  racemes,  and  have 
short,  acute,  and  sharply-toothed  sepals,  and  a pale-red  and  crimson  or  purplish  corolla, 
which  is  one-spurred  at  the  base.  The  fresh  plant  has  a somewhat  heavy  odor  and  a 
saline,  bitter,  and  rather  acrid  taste. 

Constituents. — AVinckler  (1831)  isolated  fumaric  acid , C4H404,  which  had  been 
obtained  by  Lassaigne  (1819)  from  malic  acid,  C4II605 ; the  latter,  heated  to  150°  C. 
(302°  F.),  is  almost  completely  resolved  into  fumaric  acid  and  water.  Fumaric  acid 
crystallizes  in  colorless  prisms,  volatilizes  partly  unaltered  above  200°  C.  (392°  F.),  and 
when  heated  with  hydriodic  acid  or  under  the  influence  of  nascent  hydrogen  is  converted 
into  succinic  acid.  Peschier  discovered  the  alkaloid  fumarine.  Pommier  (1853)  obtained 
it  by  exhausting  the  fresh  herb  with  water  acidulated  with  acetic  acid  and  precipitating 
with  ammonia.  It  is  white,  crystalline,  bitter,  not  freely  soluble  in  water,  but  soluble  in 
alcohol.  The  analysis  of  Merck  proved  the  presence  of  the  usual  constituents  of 
herbs. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  is  one  of  many  medicines  reputed  to  be  purifiers  of  the 
blood.  Its  bitter  taste  and  slightly  laxative  and  diuretic  qualities  suggest  its  analogies 
with  dandelion.  Its  reputation  also  is  partly  of  the  same  kind  as  a remedy  for  dyspeptic 
derangements  attributed  to  torpor  of  the  liver,  but  generally  due  to  constipation.  But 
its  greatest  credit  has  been  acquired  in  the  treatment  of  diseases  of  the  skin  depending 
on  scrofulous  and  diuretic  disorders.  For  crusta  lactea  a decoction  of  the  plant  in  milk 
has  been  used  topically.  The  expressed  juice  of  the  fresh  plant  is  its  most  efficient 
preparation.  A decoction  or  infusion  may  be  made  with  Gm.  32  (an  ounce)  of  the  herb 
to  Gm.  500  (gj  to  Oj)  of  water. 

FUNGUS  CHIRURGORUM,  JP.  A P.  G.— Surgeon’s  Agaric. 

Agaricus  (s.  Boletus ) chirurgorum , s.  igniarius. — Spunk , Touchwood , E. ; Amadou 
(Codex),  Agaric  de  chene , Bolet  amadouvier , Fr. ; Wundsch warn m , Feuerschwamm , Zander , 
G.  ; Esca  focaja , It.  ; Agarico  yesca.  Sp. 

Polyporus  (Boletus,  Linne ) fomentarius,  Fries. 

Nat.  Ord. — Fungi,  Hymenomycetes. 

Origin. — This  fungus  grows  on  beech  and  oak  trees  in  Southern  and  Middle  Europe  ; 
it  is  sessile,  obliquely  triangular,  and  hoof-shaped,  10  to  30  Cm.  (4—12  inches)  broad,  at 
the  base  5 to  10  Cm.  (2-4  inches)  thick,  brown-gray  or  whitish  externally  and  yellowish- 
brown  internally  ; the  hymenium  on  the  lower  side  is  in  the  form  of  small  tubular  pores. 
This  and  the  hard  rind  are  removed  and  the  fungus  is  cut  into  thin  slices,  which  are 
soaked  in  water,  boiled  in  weak  lye,  washed,  and  beaten  with  mallets  until  soft.  It  is 
then  ready  for  surgical  purposes.  For  use  as  tinder  it  is  soaked  in  a saturated  solution 
of  potassium  nitrate  before  it  is  dried. 

Description. — Surgeon’s  agaric  is  in  thin,  flat  pieces,  tasteless,  inodorous  or  of  a 
faint  odor,  of  a cinnamon-brown  color,  glossy,  very  soft  and  velvety.  Under  the  micro- 
scope it  is  seen  to  consist  of  interlaced  filiform  cells.  It  readily  absorbs  twice  its  weight 
of  water,  and  when  this  is  expressed  and  evaporated  only  a minute  residue  should  be  left. 

Allied  Drugs. — Polyporus  (Boletus,  Linnt)  igniarius  and  marginatus,  Fries , yield  a sim- 
ilar but  harder  product;  the  former  is  internally  rust-brown  or  dark  cinnamon-brown,  and  very 
hard,  while  the  latter  is  yellowish,  and  not  spongy. 

Cibotium  Baromez,  ./.  Smith , C.  djambianum,  HassTcarl , and  other  large  ferns  (Nat.  Ord. 
j Cyatheace  se)of  Sumatra  and  South-eastern  Asia,  are  covered  at  the  base  of  the  fronds  with  chaffy 
hairs,  2 or  3 Cm.  (about  1 inch)  long,  soft,  glossy,  brown  or  yellowish,  flat,  inodorous  and  taste- 
less ; these  are  known  in  the  East  as  penghawar  djambi. 

Cib.  Schiedei,  Schlechtendal,  and  perhaps  some  allied  species  yield  ocopetate  or  cola  de  mono 
of  Mexico,  which  resembles  the  preceding  drug.  Fulu  or  pulu-pulu,  from  Cib.  glaucum,  Hooker , 
i and  allied  species  of  the  Sandwich  Islands,  is  very  soft  and  slightly  curly. 

Alsophila  lurida,  Hooker , and  allied  ferns  of  Java,  yield  paku  kidang , the  hairs  being  about 
5 Cm.  (2  inches)  long,  thicker,  more  stiff  and  less  soft  than  the  preceding  drugs. 

Surgical  Action  and  Uses. — On  account  of  its  combined  lightness,  elasticity, 
toughness,  and  porosity  this  substance  has  long  been  used  to  arrest  haemorrhage  from 


760 


FUNGUS  MUSCARIUS. 


slight  wounds,  and  especially  from  leech-bites.  It  should  be  secured  in  its  place  by  a 
bandage  or  other  pressure.  When  prepared  with  nitrate  or  with  chlorate  of  potassium 
it  may  be  formed  into  cylinders  and  used  as  a moxa.  Its  physical  qualities  give  it  a 
superiority  over  all  other  substances  to  be  insinuated  between  the  ulcerated  skin  and  an 
ingrown  toe-nail.  The  success  of  this  treatment  depends  upon  preventing  any  movement 
of  the  parts  by  means  of  a narrow  strip  of  adhesive  plaster  wound  around  the  toe. 

Pinghawar  djambi  has  been  used  as  a haemostatic  in  Sumatra  from  time  imme- 
morial. Its  power  of  coagulating  freshly-drawn  blood  is  greater  than  that  of  several 
other  absorbents  employed  as  haemostatics,  and  is  due  to  the  capillarity  of  its  fibres, 
which  absorb  the  serum  of  the  blood  ( Med . Record , xxxiv.  478).  Many  years  ago  this 
property  was  described  by  Vinke  (N.  Amer.  Med. -Chi.  Rev.,  iv.  736).  He,  however, 
stated  that  the  plant  acts  more  efficiently  when  crumbled  than  when  entire.  Gm.  0.30 
(gr.  v)  are  said  to  arrest  a considerable  hsemorrhage , and  more  than  Gm.  1.30  (gr.  xx) 
is  never  applied.  It  is  pressed  for  two  or  three  minutes  against  the  bleeding  surface 
and  secured  in  its  place.  During  the  Franco-German  War,  according  to  Junker,  it 
proved  useful  in  capillary  haemorrhage  and  in  bleeding  from  small  vessels  ( London  Med. 
Rec .,  Dec.  15,  1885). 


FUNGUS  MUSCARIUS.— Fly  Agaric. 

Fly  fungus , E.  ; Agaric  mouche , Fausse  oronge , Fr.  ; Fliegenschwamm,  G. 

Amanita  muscaria,  Per  soon,  s.  Agaricus  muscarius,  Linne. 

Mat.  Ord. — Fungi,  Agaricini. 

Origin. — This  European  fungus  grows  in  autumn,  chiefly  under  pine  trees ; allied 
poisonous  species  are  met  with  in  most  countries.  Some  species  of  the  same  genus  are 
edible. 

Description. — The  stalk  is  tuberous  at  the  base,  7 to  15  Cm.  (3  to  6 inches)  high, 
and  about  18  Mm.  (f  inch)  thick,  white.  The  cap  (pileus)  is  10-15  Cm.  (4  to  6 inches) 
broad,  at  first  globular,  afterward  flattish  or  convex,  scarlet  or  orange-red,  more  or  less 
covered  with  white  warts,  internally  yellowish,  and  on  the  under  side  with  white  lamel- 
late gills  (hymenium).  It  has  a disagreeable  odor  and  a burning,  acrid  taste.  Infused 
with  milk,  it  is  used  for  poisoning  flies  ; hence  the  name. 

Constituents. — The  poisonous  principle,  according  to  Apoiger  (1851),  is  a crystal- 
lizable  acid  soluble  in  ether  and  precipitated  by  lead  acetate.  Leteiller  (1866)  called 
it  amanitin , which  is  a brown,  amorphous,  tasteless  glucoside,  insoluble  in  ether,  and 
not  precipitated  by  lead  salts  or  gallic  acid.  Schoenbrodt  (1864)  isolated  a white  crys- 
talline powder,  agaricin,  by  exhausting  the  alcoholic  extract  with  50  per  cent,  alcohol, 
evaporating  and  crystallizing  from  a mixture  of  alcohol  and  ether;  it  is  insoluble  in  ether 
and  sparingly  soluble  in  water,  and  has  at  first  an  insipid,  afterward  sweet,  bitter,  and 
acrid  taste.  Sicard  and  Schoras  (1865)  announced  that  various  toadstools  contain  a 
poisonous  volatile  alkaloid  ; the  volatile  alkaloid  obtained  by  Apoiger  had  a very  disagree- 
able odor,  but  was  not  poisonous.  Schmiedeberg  and  Koppe  (1869)  separated  a poison- 
ous alkaloid,  muscarine,  C5H15NOh,  which  is  colorless,  inodorous,  crystalline,  very  deliques- 
cent, insoluble  in  ether,  and  sparingly  soluble  in  chloroform  ; it  is  5 strong  base,  and  yields 
deliquescent  salts,  which  are  precipitated  by  mercuric  chloride,  auric  chloride,  and  potassio- 
mercuric  iodide.  It  is  accompanied  by  choline , C5H15N02,  which  was  isolated  by  Harnack 
(1876)  as  amanitine,  and  was  afterward  found  by  him  identical  with  the  choline  of  hog- 
bile. 

Action  and  Uses. — At  one  time  this  fungus  had  a doubtful  reputation  for  the 
cure  of  epdepsy.  It  was  also  used  externally  in  the  treatment  of  chronic  eruptions  and 
ulcers  of  the  skin.  Its  most  important  use  is  to  combat  profuse  sweating,  for  which 
purpose  the  related  white  agaric  has  long  been  employed,  as  is  elsewhere  stated.  Dr. 
Murrell  successfully  used  Agaricus  muscarius  in  the  treatment  of  26  cases  of  the  night- 
sweating of  phthisis.  He  found  that  5 minims  of  the  1 per  cent,  solution  of  the  extract 
was  the  smallest  dose  on  which  reliance  could  be  placed.  It  was  given  three  times  a 
day,  or  at  intervals  of  about  an  hour  before  bed-time.  It  did  not  begin  to  act  on  the 
first  night,  but  on  each  successive  night  became  more  efficient,  and  it  stopped  the  sweat- 
ing without  producing  any  abnormal  dryness  of  the  skin.  Even  in  the  dose  of  15  min- 
ims it  produces  no  bad  effects.  But  care  should  be  taken  to  test  the  activity  of  the 
preparation  used  by  its  power  of  arresting  the  action  of  the  frog’s  heart  (Joe.  sup.  cit .). 


GALANGA. — GALBANUM. 


761 


GAL  AN  GA. — Galangal. 

Rhizoma  (Radix)  galangse  ( minoris ),  P.  G. ; Galanga,  Fr.,  Sp.  ; Galgant , G. 

The  rhizome  of  Alpinia  officinarum,  Hance.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  271. 
Rat.  Ord. — Scitaminese  (Zingiberaceae),  Zingiberese. 

Origin. — The  galangal-plant  resembles  a flag,  and  has  stems  about  1.2  M.  (4  feet)  high, 
and  white  flowers,  veined  with  red,  in  terminal  racemes.  It  is  indigenous  to  the  island  of 
Hainan  in  the  south  of  China,  and  probably  also  to  the  adjacent  mainland. 

Description. — The  rhizome  appears  in  commerce  in  sections  about  5 Cm.  (2  inches) 
long.  0.5  to  2 Cm.  (|-4  inch)  in  diameter,  frequently  with  one  or  two  short  branches. 

Fig.  129. 

Fig.  128. 


Galanga.  Galanga  : transverse  section,  magnified  6 chain. 

It  has  externally  a rust-brown  color,  and  is  somewhat  wrinkled  and  transversely  annu- 
lated  with  the  short  remnants  of  the  leaf-sheaths.  It  is  rather  tough,  breaks  with  a 
somewhat  fibrous  fracture,  is  internally  pale  grayish-brown,  and  on  transverse  section 
shows  the  endoderm  as  a dark-colored  circular  line,  enclosing  a central  portion  of  about 
the  same  width  as  the  cortical  layer  ; the  tissue  contains  starch-grains  and  scattered  oil- 
cells  and  wood-bundles,  the  latter  being  more  numerous  in  the  central  portion.  Galan- 
gal has  an  agreeable  aromatic  odor,  which  becomes  more  prominent  on  bruising  the  rhizome, 
and  a pungent  taste  somewhat  resembling  that  of  ginger. 

Constituents. — Galangal  contains  about  \ per  cent,  of  a pale-yellow  or  brownish- 
yellow  volatile  oil  which  has  the  density  0.921  at  15°  C.,  boils  between  170°  and  275°  C., 
and  contains  considerable  cineol , to  which  the  oil  ofaes  its  camphor-like  odor  (Schimmel 
and  Co.,  1890).  The  water  distilled  from  galangal  contains  ammonium  carbonate  (Vogel, 
1844).  The  pungent  taste  of  the  rhizome,  according  to  Bucholz,  is  due  to  a soft  resin 
which  has  not  been  fnrther  examined.  Brandes  (1839)  obtained  tasteless  and  inodorous 
crystals  of  ksempferid , which  by  crystallization  from  alcohol  yielded  to  Jah  ns  (1881)  three 
yellow  compounds, — ksempferid , gala  n gin,  and  alpinin , crystallizing  in  the  order  named, 
and  melting  respectively  at  221°,  214°,  and  173°  C.  Mucilage,  starch,  fat,  and  extractive 
matter  are  likewise  present. 

Allied  Drug. — Alpinia  Galanga,  Willclenow,  of  Java,  yields  the  greater  galangal , Radix 
galangce  majoris , which  is  rarely  seen  in  our  commerce.  It  resembles  the  preceding,  but  is 
longer  and  thicker,  externally  brown-red,  internally  buff-colored,  and  is  weaker  in  odor  and  taste. 

Medical  Action  and  Uses. — Galangal  is  an  aromatic,  and  therefore  a local  and 
general  stimulant.  It  resembles  ginger  in  its  qualities  and  effects.  It  was  formerly  held 
in  high  repute  as  a stomachic  for  promoting  digestion  and  relieving  flatulence , and  was 
employed  to  correct  nausea  and  prevent  vomiting  due  to  indigestible  food,  and  also  when 
they  occurred  in  febrile  diseases  of  a typhoid  type.  Its  somewhat  acrid  taste  renders  it 
unsuitable  for  administration  in  powder,  which  may,  however,  be  prescribed  in  the  close 
of  Gm.  1.30  or  2.00  (20-30  grains).  It  may  also  be  given  in  an  infusion  made  with 
Gm.  32  (an  ounce)  of  the  bruised  root  to  a pint  of  water.  A tincture  is  also  employed 
in  the  dose  of  Gm.  4 (f^j ). 

GALBANUM,  Br.,  P.  Galbanum. 

Giimmi-resina  galhanum. — Galbanum , F. ; Mutterharz , Gallon,  G. ; Galbano,  Sp. 

The  gum-resin  obtained  from  Ferula  galbaniflua,  Boissier  et  Buhse , and  probably  from 
other  allied  plants.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 128. 

Nat.  Ord. — Umbelliferae,  Orthospermse. 

Origin. — This  plant  is  indigenous  to  Northern  Persia.  The  stem  is  about  1.5  M.  (5 
feet)  high  ; the  radical  leaves  are  large,  triangular,  decompound  pinnate,  and  pinnatifid, 
with  the  ultimate  sections  linear  and  obtuse  ; the  stem-leaves  are  small ; the  fruit  is  some- 
what winged  near  the  face  of  the  mericarps ; the  ribs  are  prominent  and  slender,  and  the 


762 


GALBANUM. 


oil-tubes  solitary  in  each  groove  and  absent  in  the  commissure,  or  often  there  are  two 
narrow  ones.  The  plant,  with  the  one  noticed  below,  was  originally  (1844)  described  by 
Boissier  under  the  name  of  Fer.  erubescens,  subsequently  (1856)  as  F.  gummosa. 

Fer.  rubricaulis,  Boissier , grows  in  Southern  (and  probably  also  in  Northern)  Persia, 
and  has  the  leaves  with  wider  segments  and  the  oil-tubes  narrower  and  more  numerous 
than  the  preceding.  Fer.  Schair,  Borszczow , a native  of  the  Kirgheez  country,  yields 
also  a gum-resin  similar  to  galbanum,  which,  however,  does  not  appear  to  be  collected. 
The  gum-resin  exudes  spontaneously,  and,  as  far  as  known,  no  incisions  are  made  to  pro- 
mote the  exudation.  It  enters  commerce  chiefly  through  Russia  and  from  the  Levant. 

Description.— The  best  quality  of  galbanum  is  met  with  in  tears  varying  in  size 
from  a pin’s  head  to  a pea  and  larger  ; sometimes  it  is  soft  and  semifluid.  The  tears 
adhere  to  one  another,  forming  a more  or  less  compact  mass ; they  are  of  a reddish-, 
brownish-,  or  greenish-yellow  color  externally,  internally  whitish  or  yellowish,  with  a 
waxy  gloss,  and  are  somewhat  translucent.  It  has  a peculiar,  unpleasant  balsamic  odor 
and  a disagreeable,  bitter,  and  acrid  taste.  Moistened  with  alcohol,  a fine  purple  color 
will  be  produced  on  the  addition  of  a little  strong  hydrochloric  or  nitric  acid.  Hydro- 
chloric acid  remaining  in  contact  with  galbanum  for  about  an  hour  acquires  a red  color, 
and  on  the  gradual  addition  of  alcohol  and  warming  the  mixture  to  60°  C.  (140°  F.) 
becomes  transiently  dark  violet-colored  (difference  from  ammoniac,  which  is  not  colored). 
Water  in  contact  with  galbanum  shows  a blue  fluorescence  on  the  addition  of  a minute 
quantity  of  ammonia-water. 

Lump  galbanum  consists  sometimes  of  soft  or  harder  masses,  in  which  some  tears  are 
distinctly  observed ; sometimes  a mass  is  offered  which  from  its  odor  and  behavior  seems 
to  be  of  a different  origin. 

For  medicinal  use  galbanum  should  be  exposed  to  a low  temperature  until  brittle,  then 
powdered,  and  by  sifting  freed  from  the  impurities. — P.  G. 

Constituents. — According  to  the  older  analyses  by  Neumann,  Pelletier,  and  others, 
galbanum  contains  6 to  8.5  per  cent,  of  volatile  oil,  15  to  20  per  cent,  of  gummy  matter, 
and  60  to  66  per  cent,  of  resin,  besides  7 to  14  per  cent,  of  impurities.  Volatile  fatty 
acids  were  found  by  Moessmer  (1861)  in  the  emulsion  remaining  after  distilling  off  the 
volatile  oil.  The  volatile  oil  is  colorless,  turns  yellowish  and  thick  on  exposure,  varies  in 
specific  gravity  between  .88  and  .92,  has  the  boiling-point  160°  to  165°  C.  (320°  to  329° 
F.),  is  dextrogyre,  and  consists  of  several  hydrocarbons  of  the  composition  C10H16.  The 
resin  is  yellowish-brown,  soluble  in  ether,  alcohol,  carbon  disulphide,  and  alkalies.  On 
being  heated  it  yields  a beautiful  indigo-blue  volatile  oil  which,  according  to  Kachler 
(1871),  consists  of  a colorless  oil,  C10H16,  boiling  at  240°  C.  (364°  F.),  and  of  a deep-blue 
oil,  C30H48O3,  which  boils  at  281°  C.  (538°  F.),  appears  to  be  identical  with  the  blue  por- 
tion of  the  oil  of  German  chamomile,  and  yields  with  potassium  a hydrocarbon,  C30H48, 
the  solution  of  which  in  much  aqueous  ether  gives  with  an  ethereal  solution  of  bromine 
an  azure-blue  color,  changing  to  green  and  brown.  Galbanum  resin,  treated  with  fusing 
potassa,  yields  several  volatile  fatty  acids  and  resorcin , the  solution  of  which  is  colored 
dark-purple  by  ferric  chloride  (Illasiwetz  and  Barth,  1864). 

An  aqueous  infusion  of  galbanum  on  the  addition  of  ammonia  assumes  a blue  fluores- 
cence, which  disappears  again  on  the  addition  of  an  acid.  This  reaction  is  due  to  umbel- 
liferon , C9H603,  which  may  be  obtained  in  colorless  needles  by  heating  galbanum  with 
hydrochloric  acid  to  100°  C.  (212°  F.),  agitating  the  liquid  with  ether  or  chloroform,  and 
evaporating  the  latter  solution.  It  was  first  obtained  by  C.  Sommer  (1859)  from  sumbul- 
root,  and  has  since  been  procured  from  various  umbelliferous  resins  and  from  mezereon. 
It  crystallizes  from  hot  water  in  colorless  rhombic  prisms  which  melt  at  240°  C.  (464° 
F.)  and  sublime  without  decomposition.  It  is  easily  soluble  in  ether  and  alcohol,  but  dis- 
solves sparingly  in  cold  water,  the  latter  solution  showing  a blue  color  in  reflected  light ; 
when  fused  with  potassa  it  yields  resorcin. 

Action  and  Uses. — Galbanum  is  generally  described  as  partaking  of  the  virtues 
both  of  asafcetida  and  ammoniac,  affecting  the  nervous  system  like  the  former,  and  acting 
as  a local  irritant  like  the  latter.  Applied  to  the  skin,  it  occasions  a papular  eruption, 
and,  if  the  true  skin  is  exposed,  causes  it  to  ulcerate.  Upon  the  system  generally  it 
probably  acts  as  a stimulant,  for  in  large  doses  it  is  said  to  cause  fulness  of  the  head  and 
tension  of  the  pulse.  Moreover,  its  therapeutical  virtues  are  observed  only  in  cases  that 
call  for  stimulation  ; these  are  such  as  the  resins  and  gum-resins  are  applicable  to,  and, 
especially  chronic  bronchitis , chronic  intestinal , uterine , and  vaginal  catarrh,  amenorrhcea, 
etc.  In  most  of  these  cases  its  effect  is  to  lessen  excessive  mucous  secretion.  It  is  sel- 
dom given  alone,  and  hence  virtues  are  apt  to  be  attributed  to  it  that  belong  to  its  associated 


GALEGA.-GALIUM  VERUM. 


763 


medicines.  In  the  compound  galbanum  pill  it  is  united  with  asafetida  and  myrrh.  Even 
for  external  use  it  is  associated  with  other  irritants.  The  dose  of  galbanum  is  Gm.  0.30- 
1.30  (gr.  v-xx).  It  is  best  administered  in  emulsion. 


GALEGA. — Goat’s  Rue. 

Herba  rutse  capr  arise. — Galega , Rue  de  clievre , Fr. ; Geisraute , G. 

Galega  officinalis,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Leguminosse,  Papilionacese. 

Description. — Goat’s  rue  is  found  in  the  countries  bordering  on  the  Mediterranean 
and  northward  to  Central  Europe.  It  has  a perennial  several-headed  root  and  an  erect 
stem  about  90  Cm.  (3  feet)  high  ; the  smooth,  oddly-pinnate  leaves  are  furnished  with 
six  or  eight  pairs  of  lanceolate  or  ovate-lanceolate,  obtuse,  and  finely  mucronate  leaflets. 
2-5  Cm.  (f  to  2 inches)  long,  and  with  lanceolate  stipules,  which  are  sagittate  on  one 
side.  The  purplish  or  whitish  flowers  are  in  axillary  racemes,  and  produce  narrow  almost 
cylindrical  legumes.  The  herb  is  inodorous  and  has  a mucilaginous  and  somewhat  bitter 
and  astringent  taste.  Its  constituents  have  not  been  investigated. 

Action  and  Uses.— Galega  was  at  one  time  held  to  be  diaphoretic,  diuretic,  and 
anthelmintic,  and  was  used  as  a stimulant  in  nervous  affections  of  an  hysterical  ox  spasmodic 
nature,  in  low  fevers , and  especially  in  the  plague.  It  is  said,  also,  to  favor  the  mammary 
secretion  ( Therap . Gaz .,  xv.  216;  Univ.  Med.  Mag.,  iii.  430). 


GALIUM  VERUM. — Yellow  Bedstraw. 

Caille-lait  jaune , F.  Cod.  ; Megerhraut , Liebfrauenstroh , Labkraut,  G. ; Guajaleche , Sp. 

Nat.  Ord. — Rubiaceas,  Galieae. 

Origin  and  Description. — Galium  verum,  Linne , is  a perennial  herb  indigenous 
to  Europe  and  Northern  Asia,  and  naturalized  in  New  England.  It  has  a light-reddish 
root,  an  ascending  smoothish  stem,  whorls  of  eight  narrow  linear  roughish  leaves,  com- 
pact panicles  of  small  yellow  odorous  flowers,  and  a smoothish  akene-like  twin-fruit.  The 
herb  has  a somewhat  astringent,  acidulous,  and  bitter  taste. 

Constituents. — The  iron-greening  tannin  of  this  and  allied  herbs  was  described 
(1852)  by  R.  Schwarz  as  galitannic  acid ; citric  and  rubichloric  acid  are  likewise  present, 
besides  starch  and  other  common  principles  of  herbs. 

Allied  Plants. — G.  mollugo,  Linn6. — Whiptongue,  E. ; Caille-lait  blanc,  F.  Cod.;  Waldstroh, 
G.  It  is  indigenous  to  Europe,  somewhat  naturalized  in  the  United  States,  has  a smooth  stem, 
oblanceolate  or  oblong-linear,  somewhat  rough  and  mucronate  leaves  in  wrhorls  of  eight,  and  long 
panicles  of  whitish  flowers  yielding  smooth  fruits. 

Galium  Aparine,  Linnt. — Cleavers,  E. ; Grateron,  Riebel,  Fr. ; Klebkraut,  G. — It  grows 
in  thickets  in  North  America,  Europe,  and  Northern  Asia,  has  a weak,  retrorsely  prickly, 
quadrangular  stem  1 M.  (40  inches)  long ; linear  lanceolate  and  mucronate-prickly  leaves  in 
whorls  of  six  or  eight ; small  whitish  flowers,  and  one-seeded  twin-carpels,  armed  with  hooked 
prickles. 

G.  triflorum,  Michaux. — Sweet-scented  bedstraw,  E. — It  is  indigenous  to  North  America, 
resembles  the  preceding,  but  has  elliptic-lanceolate  slightly  rough  bristle-pointed  leaves  in  wrhorls 
of  six,  three-flowered  peduncles,  and  acquires  an  agreeable  odor  on  drying. 

The  constituents  of  these  plants  appear  to  be  the  same  as  those  of  the  first  species  ; oxalic  acid 
is  sometimes  present,  and  aspertannic  acid  in  species  of  asperula. 

Yon  Cotzhausen  (1876)  determined  the  odorous  principle  of  Galium  triflorum  to  be  coumarin, 
to  which  is  also  due  the  agreeable  odor  of  the  nearly-allied  Asperula  odorata,  Linn6 , known  in 
France  as  asp6rule  odorante  and  in  German  as  Waldmeister.  The  roots  of  several  species,  like 
Galium  tinctorium,  Linnt,  contain  red  coloring  matter  resembling  that  of  Madder,  and  are 
popularly  known  as  wild  madder.  The  leaves  of  others,  like  Galium  circsezans,  Michaux , and 
G.  lanceolatum,  Torrey , have  a sweet  liquorice-like  taste,  and  the  plants  are  sometimes  called 
wild  liquorice. 

Rubia  tinctorum,  IAnnt. — Madder,  Dyer’s  madder,  E. ; Garance,  F.  Cod. ; Krapp,  Farber- 
rothe,  G. ; Granza,  Sp. — This  herbaceous  perennial  is  indigenous  to  the  Levant  and  largely  culti- 
vated for  its  creeping  rhizome  and  numerous  long,  light  blood-red,  cylindrical  roots  of  the  thick- 
ness of  a quill,  which  have  an  easily  separable  gray-red  corky  layer,  a thin  dark  brown-red  inner 
bark,  and  a spongy  red  wood,  with  irregular  medullary  rays,  a feeble  color,  and  a sweetish,  bit- 
terish, somewhat  acrid  and  astringent  taste.  Madder  is  usually  found  in  the  shops  in  the  form 
of  a coarse  powder.  The  fresh  root  contains  a yellow  coloring  matter,  while  the  commercial 
article  contains  the  decomposition-products,  many  being  glucosides,  yielding  alizarin.  Rubian 


764 


GALLA. 


is  amorphous,  dark-yellow,  bitter.  Rubihydran  and  rubidehydran  are  gum-like  (Schunck  1847- 
56).  Rochleder’s  ruberythrinic  acid , (1855,  etc.),  crystallizes  in  silky  yellow  prisms. 

The  most  important  constituent  is  alizarin , C14H804,  which  crystallizes  in  orange-red  sublimable 
needles,  is  soluble  in  boiling  water,  alcohol,  and  ether,  and  yields  purple  or  red-colored  com- 
pounds with  bases.  Other  compounds  obtained  from  madder  are  rubitannic  acid , rubichloric 
acid , purpurin , rubiretin,  etc.  The  artificial  production  of  alizarin  was  discovered  by  Graebe 
and  Liebermann,  and  it  is  now  manufactured  from  anthracene , C14H10,  a crystalline  constituent 
of  coal-tar,  which  is  oxidized  to  anthraqtiinone,  C14H802 ; this  is  then  converted  into  a sulphonic 
acid  or  a bromo-compound,  which  by  the  action  of  alkalies  yields  alizarin. 

Action  and  Uses. — Galium  verum  and  G.  aparinum  have  been  used  in  Europe 
chiefly  in  dropsy  and  jaundice , and  for  scaly  skin  diseases , especially  of  a scrofulous  nature. 
They  have  been  alleged  to  cure  epilepsy  and  cancer  of  the  tongue.  Fresh  G.  verum,  re- 
duced to  a paste  in  a mortar,  is  used  in  Great  Britain  as  a poultice  for  chronic  ulcers 
( Edinb . Med.  Jour.,  xxix.  173  ; Med.  Press , June  16,  1886).  Notwithstanding  the  virtues 
attributed  to  galium  at  various  times,  it  does  not  seem  to  have  established  its  claims  to 
confidence.  A decoction  is  prepared  with  Gm.  16  to  Gm.  500  (half  an  ounce  of  the  plant 
to  a pint  of  water)  and  given  in  wineglassfnl  doses.  The  fresh  inspissated  juice  is  pre- 
ferable, given  in  f^ij  doses  three  times  a day. 

Madder  is  an  obsolete  medicine,  but  was  formerly  in  high  repute  as  an  emmenagogue. 
It  was  administered  in  doses  of  Gm.  2-4  (3ss~3j)  four  times  a day. 


GALLA,  V.  8.,  Br. — Nutgall. 

Gallse , P.  G. ; Galla  halepense,  G.  turcica , G.  levantica , G.  tinctoria , G.  quercina. — 
Galls,  E. ; Galle  de  chene , Noix  de  galle , Fr.  Cod. ; Gallapfel , Gallen,  G. ; Agallas  de 
Levante , Sp. 

Excrescences  on  Quercus  lusitanica,  Lamarck  (Q.  infectoria,  Olivier ),  caused  by  the 
punctures  and  deposited  ova  of  Cynips  (Diplolepis,  Latreille)  Gallse  tinctoriae,  Olivier 
(Class  Insecta,  Order  Hymenoptera).  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 249. 

Nat.  Ord. — Cupuliferae. 

Origin. — Quercus  lusitanica  is  a polymorphous  species  indigenous  to  the  basin  of  the 
Mediterranean,  the  leaves  varying  between  ovate  and  obovate,  mostly  rounded  at  base 
and  acute  at  apex,  variously  and  either  obtusely  or  acutely  toothed  or  lobed.  The  dyer’s 
oak  is  a small  tree,  or  oftener  a shrub,  1.2-1. 8 M.  (4  to  6 feet)  high,  and  is  found  in  the 
eastern  section  of  the  Mediterranean  basin  from  Greece  to  Persia.  The  tender  bark  of 
the  young  branches  is  punctured  by  the  female  of  the  hymenopterous  insect  named 
above,  and  one  or  more  eggs  are  deposited  in  the  wound.  The  irritation  produced  by 
this  operation  causes  the  formation  of  an  excrescence  enclosing  the  larva,  which  under- 
goes therein  its  transformations.  The  term  gall  is  generally  used  to  designate  such 
excrescences  formed  upon  any  part  of  a plant  in  consequence  of  the  puncture  of  an 
insect. 

Description. — Nutgalls  are  sub-globular,  about  25  Mm.  (one  inch)  or  less  in 
diameter,  with  a short  stipe  and  a nearly  smooth  surface,  or,  more  frequently,  more  or 

less  tuberculated  in  the  upper  portion.  They  are 

Fig.  130.  Fig.  131.  dense,  and  in  color  externally  of  a deep  blackish 

olive-green  or  blackish -gray ; if  the  gall  remains 
upon  the  branch,  it  gradually  becomes  lighter,  and 
finally  of  a pale  yellowish-brown  tint,  the  texture 
becoming  spongy  and  the  weight  decreasing  at  the 
same  time.  Galls  are  hard,  but  are  readily  broken 
with  a hammer,  exhibiting  a more  or  less  close  gran- 
ular fracture,  which  has  sometimes  a waxy  lustre. 
Internally,  they  are  yellowish-  or  pale  brownish-gray, 
with  a central  nucleus  or  cavity  containing  either  the 
Entire  Nutga11,  Section  more  or  less  fully  developed  insect  or  pulverulent 

fragments  of  the  cellular  tissue.  In  the  latter  case 
the  insect  has  usually  escaped  through  a cylindrical  canal  which  it  has  bored  from  the 
cavity  to  the  surface,  the  outer  aperture  being  just  below  the  middle  and  having  a 
diameter  of  2-3  Mm.  (y1-^  to  i inch).  The  cellular  tissue  of  the  nucleus,  if  still  present, 
is  mostly  filled  with  small  starch-granules  and  surrounded  by  a layer  of  thick-walled  cells 
forming  a shell,  on  the  outside  of  which  is  the  cellular  tissue  containing  the  tannin. 
This  tissue  has  often  a radiated  appearance  near  the  shell,  and  contains  toward  the  sur- 


GALL  A. 


765 


face  small  scattered  bundles  of  vas- 
cular tissue.  Nutgalls  are  nearly 
inodorous  and  have  a very  astrin- 
gent taste.  Light,  spongy,  and 
whitish-colored  nutgalls  should  be 
rejected. 

Nutgalls  are  distinguished  in  com- 
merce according  to  their  color,  the 
blue  or  black  galls  of  Syria  (Aleppo) 
being  preferred.  Smyrna  galls  are 
usually  of  a grayish  olive-green, 
more  spongy  in  texture,  and  inter- 
mixed with  white  galls;  the  latter 
are  the  least  valuable.  Soria, n galls 
are  of  the  size  of  a pea,  blackish, 
and  internally  not  radiate.  The 
galls  which  are  produced  upon  the  European  oaks  by  different  species  of  Cynips  are  of  a 
lighter  color  and  more  spongy  texture,  but  have  an  astringent  taste  and  contain  tannin. 

Constituents. — The  principal  constituent  of  nutgalls  is  tannin  or  gallotannic  acid , 
of  which  they  contain  about  60  per  cent.  Bowman  (1869)  assayed  selected  galls,  finding 
80  per  cent.,  and  in  white  galls  only  30.7  per  cent.  2 or  3 per  cent,  of  gallic  acid  is  like- 
wise found,  together  with  some  sugar,  resinous  and  albuminous  matter,  and,  as  stated 
before,  starch  in  the  nucleus. 

Allied  Drugs. — Chinese  and  Japanese  Galls,  although  known  from  a much  earlier  period, 
were  not  a regular  article  of  commerce  until  Pereira  (1844)  directed  attention  to  them  again. 

They  are  produced  upon  the  leaves  or  leaf- 
stalks of  Rhus  semialata,  Murray,  by  an 
insect  provisionally  named  Aphis  ehinensis, 
Bell , and  usually  contain  between  70  and  80 
per  cent,  of  tannin.  They  are  of  a very  irreg- 
ular shape,  mostly  thin,  as  if  stalked,  toward 
the  base,  much  inflated  above,  irregularly 
lobed,  and  with  few  or  many  protuberances  ; 
they  are  of  a reddish-brown  color,  but  densely 
covered  with  a gray  down,  consist  of  a thin 
fragile  shell,  and  contain  in  the  interior 
numerous  small  dead  insects.  The  Japanese 
nutgalls  agree  in  all  essential  characteristics 
with  this  description,  but  are  usually  more 
slender  and  have  a larger  number  of  lobes 
and  protuberances  ; their  origin  has  been  referred  to  Rhus  japonica,  Siebold.  C.  Hartwich  (1881) 
found  also  their  pubescence  quite  dense  and  light-brown,  and  the  tissue  to  contain  unaltered 
starch-granules ; while  Chinese  galls  have  the  pubescence  less  dense  and  greenish-brown,  and 
the  starch  is  pasty. 

Vallonea. — Valonia,  Acorn-cups,  E.  ; Vallone,  Velanede,  Gallon,  Fr. ; Knoppern,  Walonen, 
G. — Several  varieties  are  occasionally  met  with.  Hungaria  valonia  are  the  cups  of  Quercus 
Robur,  Linn£,  rendered  irregular  in  shape  and  more  or  less  winged  by  the  excrescences  pro- 
duced from  the  sting  of  Cynips  Quercus  calycis.  Oriental  valonia  consist  of  the  unaltered  fruit- 
cups  of  Quercus  Vallonea,  Kotschy , and  of  several  allied  species  or  varieties  of  Qu.  iEgilops, 
Linni , indigenous  to  Southeastern  Europe  and  the  Levant;  they  are  about  25  Min.  (an  inch) 
or  more  in  diameter,  have  thick  spreading  or  recurved  scales,  possess  a strongly  astringent 
taste,  and  are  largely  employed  for  tanning.  The  cups  of  our  indigenous  species  are  likewise 
astringent. 

American  Nutgalls,  as  obtained  from  Quercus  alba,  Linn& , and  other  species,  are  light  and 
spongy,  and  generally  not  very  rich  in  tannin.  The  galls  from  Quercus  virens,  Aiion,  produced 
in  Texas,  are  more  analogous  to  Aleppo  galls,  but  not  tuberculate  ; they  contain  about  40  per  cent, 
of  tannin.  The  so-called  California  oak-balls , recently  indroduced,  are  derived  from  Quercus 
lobata,  Engelmann , are  about  5 Cm.  (2  inches)  in  diameter,  orange-brown  and  somewhat  glossy 
externally,  soft  and  spongy  within,  and  appear  to  contain  much  tannin. 

Tamarisk  Galls  are  collected  from  Tamarix  orientalis,  Forskal , which  grows  in  Southern 
and  South-western  Asia.  They  are  3-12  Mm.  (I  to  \ inch)  thick,  subglobular,  knotty,  and  are 
said  to  contain  from  40  to  50  per  cent,  of  tannin.  Similar  galls  are  obtained  in  Algeria  and 
Morocco  from  Tam.  africana,  Poiret.  The  brown-red,  fibrous,  bitter,  and  astringent  bark  of 
Tam.  gallica,  Linn£,  and  the  leaves  of  the  same  plant,  are  used  in  Southern  Europe. 

Action  and  Uses. — From  the  most  ancient  times  nutgall  has  been  used  in  medicine, 
for  its  astringency.  This  property  is  due  to  gallotannic  acid,  but  a bitter  extractive 


Fig.  133. 


Japanese  Nutgalls. 


Fig.  132. 


Chinese  Nutgalls. 


766 


GARCINIA. 


ascribed  to  nutgall  gives  it  a tonic  action.  These  qualities  account  for  its  efficacy  in  the 
treatment  of  chronic  diarrhoea.  It  has  been  used  as  an  antidote  to  tartar  emetic  and 
poisonous  vegetable  alkaloids  ; and  whatever  degree  of  efficacy  it  then  exerts  is  partly 
due  to  its  constringing  the  stomach  and  delaying  the  absorption  of  its  contents.  An 
infusion  made  from  6m.  16-32  (half  an  ounce  to  an  ounce)  of  coarsely-powdered  nutgall 
in  Gm.  500  (a  pint)  of  boiling  water  may  be  given  in  the  dose  of  a wineglassful  three  or 
four  times  a day,  for  the  purposes  referred  to  ; and  it  may  be  locally  applied  to  the  relaxed 
mucous  membrane  of  the  mouth,  throat,  vagina,  and  rectum. 

GARCINIA. — Mangosteen. 

Mangostane , Fr.,  G. 

Several  species  of  Garcinia. 

Nat.  Ord. — Guttiferae  (Clusiaceae). 

Origin. — The  trees  belonging  to  the  genus  Garcinia  inhabit  tropical  countries,  and 
are  chiefly  found  in  India  and  the  East  Indian  islands.  They  have  unisexual  or  sub- 
dioecious  flowers  with  four  sepals,  four  petals,  and  numerous  stamens,  which  in  the  pistil- 
late flowers  are  often  reduced  to  staminodes ; the  ovary  is  four-  to  ten-celled,  each  cell 
containing  one  seed ; the  fruit  is  a fleshy  berry. 

Description. — Garcinia  mangostana,  Linne,  is  a large  tree  witb  a bitter  and  very 
astringent  bark,  and  glossy  elliptic-oblong  or  oblong-lanceolate  leaves.  The  fruit  is  of 
the  size  of  an  ordinary  orange,  of  a brown  or  brown-gray  color,  mottled  with  yellow  and 
crowned  by  the  sessile  four-lobed  stigma.  The  pericarp  is  bitterish  and  astringent,  some- 
what spongy,  and  encloses  six  or  eight  seeds,  which  are  covered  with  a white  juicy  pulp 
of  a delicious  odor  and  taste.  W.  Schmid  (1855)  isolated  from  the  pericarp,  besides 
tannin,  golden-yellow  mangostin , C20H22O5,  which  crystallizes  in  scales,  is  fusible,  soluble 
in  alcohol  and  ether,  and  colored  yellowish-brown  by  alkalies  and  green-black  by  ferric 
salts. 

The  fruit  of  Garcinia  Kydia,  Roxburgh , which  is  dark-yellow  and  of  the  size  of  a small 
orange,  and  of  Garc.  pedunculata,  Roxburgh , which  is  much  larger  and  of  a yellow  color, 
contain  an  acidulous  pulp  which  is  very  inferior  to  that  of  the  first  species. 

Garcinia  indica,  Choisy , s.  G.  purpurea,  Roxburgh , s.  Brindonia  indica,  Du  Petit - 
Thouars  (Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 32),  is  a medium-sized  tree,  with  oblong- 
lanceolate  or  oblong-oval,  glabrous  leaves,  and  with  a dull-red  or  purplish  fruit  of  the 
size  of  a small  orange  and  containing  from  five  to  eight  seeds  imbedded  in  an  acid  purple 
pulp,  which  is  used  in  India  in  curries  and  in  the  dried  state.  The  seeds  are  about  12 
Mm.  (J  inch)  long,  oblong-reniform,  somewhat  compressed  and  wrinkled,  and  contain  an 
oily  embryo.  After  bruising  the  seeds  and  boiling  them  with  water  an  oil  collects  on  the 
surface,  which  is  moulded  by  hand  into  egg-shaped  balls,  and  is  known  as  kokum-butter 
or  concrete  oil  of  mangosteen  (Beurre  de  Kokum,  Suif  de  Goa,  Fr. ; Kokum-butter,  G .) 
This  oil  is  in  various-shaped  cakes,  has  a whitish  or  yellowish  color,  and  is  firm,  friable, 
and  crystalline.  J.  Bouis  and  D’Oliveira  Pimentel  (1857)  obtained  from  the  seeds  by 
ether  30  per  cent,  of  oil,  melting  near  40°  C.  (104°  F.),  and  containing  about  50  per 
cent,  of  tristearin.  Fliickiger  found  after  saponification  also  myristic  and  oleic  acid. 
After  filtration,  whereby  brown  tannic  matters  are  removed,  the  oil  begins  to  melt  at 
42.5°  C.,  fuses  entirely  at  45°  C.,  and  concretes  again  at  27.5°  C.  {Pharma  cogr  aphid). 

Allied  Fruits. — Mammea  Americana,  Linne,  a guttiferous  tree  of  the  West  Indies,  has  a brown- 
yellow,  subglobular  fruit  about  12  Cm.  (5  inches)  in  diameter  and  containing  three  or  four 
ovate-oblong  rough  seeds.  The  fruit,  which  is  known  as  mammee-apple , has  a leathery  bitter 
rind  and  contains  a yellow  aromatic  pulp  of  a very  agreeable  taste.  The  fruit  of  Lucuma 
(Achras,  Linnd)  mammosa,  Jussieu , Nat.  Ord.  Sapotaceae,  is  likewise  known  in  the  West  Indies 
as  mammee ; it  is  an  ovoid-oblong,  rust-brown,  and  rough  berry  about  15  Cm.  (6  inches)  long, 
having  a yellow  or  reddish  sweet,  mucilaginous  pulp,  and  containing  usually  one  large  yellow- 
ish-brown polished  seed. 

Garcinia  Kola,  Heckel , is  the  male  kola  or  kola  bitter  of  Western  Africa.  The  somewhat 
triangular  seeds  contain  a yellowish-white  embryo,  which  consists  of  a large  radial,  and  has  a 
bitter,  astringent,  and  somewhat  coffee-like  taste. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  bark,  the  wood,  and  also  the  rind  of  the  fruit  of  G.  man- 
gostana are  very  astringent,  and  have  been  employed  in  the  treatment  of  diarrhoea , 
dysentery , leucorrhoea , and  gonorrhoea,  as  a gargle  in  tonsillitis , in  decoction  as  a lotion  for 
foul  ulcers  and  j prolapsus  of  the  rectum  and  vagina , etc.  The  concrete  oil  of  G.  indica  has 
been  chiefly  used  in  some  pharmaceutical  preparations. 


GA  ULTHERTA.—GELA  TINA. 


767 


GAULTHERIA . — G aultheri  a . 

Folia  gaidtherise. — Winter  green,  Teoberry , Partridgeberry , Boxberry , Checherberry , E. ; 
Feuilles  de  gaultherie  (de  palommier),  The  du  Canada , The  de  Terre-neuve,  Fr.;  Canadischer 
Thee,  Berg  thee,  G. 

The  leaves  of  Gaultheria  procumbens,  Linne  (s.  G.  humilis,  Salisbury  ; Gaultiera  repens. 
Rajinesque).  Bigelow,  Med.  Bot.,  t.  22 ; Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 164. 

Mat.  Ord. — Ericaceae,  Ericineae. 

Origin. — Teaberry  is  found  in  cool  damp  woods,  usually  in  the  shade  of  evergreens, 
in  Canada  and  the  United  States.  The  plant  is  a small  shrub  with  a slender  creeping 
stem  and  ascending  branches,  about  12  Cm.  (5  inches)  high,  bear- 
ing the  alternate  evergreen  leaves  near  the  summit,  axillary,  nod- 
ding, whitish  flowers,  and  five-celled  berry-like  pods,  which  are  en- 
closed in  the  bright-red  fleshy  calyx.  The  leaves  are  collected  late 
in  summer  or  in  autumn. 

Description. — The  leaves  are  short-petiolate,  about  4 Cm.  (II 
inches)  long  and  19-25  Mm.  (f  to  1 inch)  wide,  obovate  or  round- 
ish-oval in  shape,  with  a wedge-shaped  base,  coriaceous  in  texture, 
mucronate  and  slightly  toothed,  the  teeth  haVing  the  elongated 
points  appressed  to  the  thickish  margin  ; they  are  smooth,  of  a 
glossy-green  color  above,  and  paler  beneath.  The  odor  is  agreeably 
aromatic,  taste  astringent  and  aromatic. 

Constituents. — We  are  not  acquainted  with  a complete 

analysis  of  the  leaves.  They  contain  a volatile  oil  (see  Oleum 

Gaultheriae)  and  tannin.  Jefferson  Oxley  (1872)  found,  besides 

grape-sugar,  gum,  coloring  matter,  and  a principle  analogous  to 

° j . ’ 7.  • • i " ° r]  Leaf  of  Gaultheria  pro- 

gallic  acid,  arbutm , urson,  and  encoim — principles  which  are  like-  cumbens,  natural  size. 

wise  present  in  the  leaves  of  chimaphila  and  in  uva  ursi. 

Action  and  Uses. — Gaultheria  is  stimulant  and  somewhat  astringent.  It  has 
sometimes  been  employed  as  a substitute  for  Chinese  tea  in  country  places,  where  it  is 
also  popularly  used  as  an  emmenagogue  and  galactagogne  and  in  chronic  bowel  complaints. 
In  the  former  cases  a hot  infusion  of  the  leaves  is  best;  in  the  latter  a cold  infusion, 
made  with  the  leaves  in  water  Gm.  32  to  Gm.  500  (^j  in  Oj)  may  be  taken  freely.  The 
action  and  most  important  use  of  gaultheria  are  described  in  connection  with  its  oil. 

GELATINA.  Br.— Gelatin. 

Gelatine,  Fr.  ; Gelatin,  G. ; Gelatina,  Sp. 

Origin  and  Preparation. — When  bone-cartilage,  animal  skin,  tendons,  and 
ligaments  are  boiled  for  a long  time  with  water,  they  become  soluble  therein,  and  on 
cooling  the  solution  forms  a jelly.  During  the  boiling  the  animal  tissues  are  placed 
upon  a sieve  or  perforated  diaphragm  which  is  inserted  above  the  bottom  of  the  boiler. 
When  sufficiently  saturated  the  solution  is  drawn  off  and  allowed  to  cool,  the  jelly  being 
then  cut  into  thin  cakes,  and  these  are  placed  upon  nettings  to  dry.  When  made  from 
carefully-selected  material  (fresh  bones)  it  constitutes  the  gelatin  of  6ommerce,  known 
also  as  artificial  isinglass.  The  offal  of  slaughter-houses  and  of  tanneries  yields  an 
impurer  gelatin,  known  as  colla , s.  colfa  a.nimalis,  s.  glutinum — glue,  E.;  colle,  colle  forte, 
Fr. ; Leim,  G.  The  importation  into  the  United  States  of  gelatin  has  increased  from 
139,000  pounds  in  1876  to  476,000  pounds  in  1882. 

Properties. — Gelatin  is  met  with  in  commerce  in  very  thin,  rectangular,  transparent 
pieces  bearing  the  impressions  of  the  netting  upon  which  it  has  been  dried,  or  in  smooth 
sheets  which  are  either  thin  and  transparent,  or  thicker,  more  or  less  porous,  and  opaque. 
It  is  not  unfrequently  cut  into  shreds,  and  the  transparent  kind  is  often  variously  colored 
Glue  is  in  similar  pieces,  but  usually  thicker,  and  varies  in  color  between  pale-yellowish 
and  dark-brown,  or  nearly  black  in  the  commonest  varieties,  and  has  an  offensive  animal 
odor,  which  is  more  apparent  after  it  has  been  dissolved  in  hot  water.  To  be  adapted 
for  dietetic  or  pharmaceutical  purposes  gelatin  should  not  alter  in  color  after  being 
digested  in  hot  water,  nnd  the  solution  should  be  free  from  smell. 

It  is  to  a small  extent  soluble  in  cold  glycerin,  dissolves  frqely  in  hot  water,  forming 
on  cooling  a tremulous  transparent  jelly,  and  is  insoluble  in  alcohol  and  ether.  Its  solu- 
tion in  water  is  not  precipitated  by  dilute  solutions  of  alum,  ferric  chloride,  or  lead  sub- 


Fig.  134. 


768 


GELATIN  A. 


acetate  (distinction  from  chondrin ),  but  yields  precipitates  with  tannin,  chlorine-water, 
corrosive  sublimate,  and  platinic  chloride.  The  tissues  yielding  gelatin  likewise  unite 
with  tannin,  forming  leather.  Gelatin  dissolves  in  acetic  and  in  dilute  mineral  acids,  the 
solutions  being  known  as  liquid  glue.  When  its  solution  in  water  is  boiled  for  a long 
time  it  loses  the  property  of  gelatinizing  on  cooling.  By  dry  distillation  gelatin  yields 
ammonium  carbonate  and  a number  of  volatile  bases,  which  are  contained  in  Dippels 
animal  oil.  Boiled  with  solution  of  potassa  or  with  sulphuric  acid,  ammonia,  glgcocoll , 
C2H5N02,  and  leucin , C6H13N02,  are  obtained  among  other  products. 

Composition. — Gelatin,  also  called  glutin,  consists  of  about  50  per  cent,  of  carbon, 
18  of  nitrogen,  6.5  of  hydrogen,  25  of  oxygen,  and  0.5  of  sulphur. 

Chondrin , which  is  obtained  from  the  permanent  cartilages  by  boiling  with  water,  has 
a similar  composition,  but  contains  less  nitrogen  and  more  oxygen.  In  addition  to  the 
differences  pointed  out  above,  it  is  distinguished  from  gelatin  by  being  precipitated  by 
acetic  and  the  mineral  acids. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Gelatin  is  employed  as  a reagent  for  estimating  tannin , a 
convenient  solution  for  the  purpose  being  made  by  dissolving  about  50  Gm.  of  it,  together 
with  8 or  10  Gm.  of  alum,  in  a liter  of  distilled  water;  before  use  the  strength  of  the 
solution  must  be  determined  with  a fresh  solution  of  pure  tannin.  It  should,  however, 
be  remembered  that  the  different  tannins  require  for  complete  precipitation  different 
amounts  of  gelatin,  so  that  the  results  obtained  are  not  absolutely  correct.  The  pectic 
acid  of  oak-bark,  according  to  P.  Buchner  (1867),  is  likewise  precipitated  by  a solution 
containing  both  gelatin  and  alum. 

Gelatin  is  used  for  preparing  the  ordinary  court  plaster  ( see  p.  603)  and  for  the  coating 
of  pills.  (See  Pilul^e.)  Dried  in  very  thin  layers,  it  has  been  recommended,  under  the 
name  of  devorative  or  folding  capsules , for  the  administration  of  powders,  the  thin  sheets 
being  used  in  precisely  the  same  manner  as  paper,  except  that  after  the  introduction  of 
the  powder  they  are  permanently  closed  by  moistening  the  edges,  and  are  swallowed, 
together  with  the  powder,  after  having  been  softened  by  being  dipped  in  water.  Medi- 
cated gelatin  is  prepared  by  pouring  a concentrated  solution  of  gelatin,  in  which  the 
medicinal  substance  has  been  dissolved,  upon  a polished  and  perfectly  level  surface ; the 
sheet  thus  obtained  is  then  divided  into  squares  or  disks  in  such  a manner  that  each  rep- 
resents a definite  weight  of  the  medicine.  Gelatin  capsules  are  made  by  dipping  oblong 
moulds  of  the  desired  size  and  shape  into  a gelatin  solution;  after  the  surface  has  been 
sufficiently  coated,  the  capsule,  while  still  pliant,  is  removed,  filled  with  the  powder  or 
liquid,  and  the  orifice  closed  by  a drop  of  solidifying  gelatin ; or  for  extemporaneous  use 
an  empty  capsule  is  slipped  over  the  open  end  of  another  containing  the  medicine. 

Within  a few  years  so-called  medicinal  pearls , containing  ether  or  other  liquid,  have 
been  introduced.  Hager  recommends  them  to  be  made  of  gelatin,  gum-arabic,  sugar,  and 
honey  rolled  out  into  sheets,  one  of  which,  while  still  rather  soft,  is  placed  upon  an  iron 
plate  containing  suitable  cavities,  into  which  the  mass  sinks  ; the  liquid  is  then  introduced, 
the  orifices  are  closed  by  another  sheet  of  the  gelatin  compound,  the  whole  covered  by  a 
second  iron  plate  having  depressions  exactly  corresponding  to  those  of  the  first,  and  after 
screwing  the  plates  together  their  position  is  reversed.  The  pearls  are  finally  separated 
by  subjecting  the  entire  arrangement  to  powerful  pressure. 

Gelatin  has  also  been  used  as  a base  for  the  preparation  of  medicated  suppositories , 
vaginal  as  well  as  rectal,  and  for  bougies.  The  material  consists  of  about  3 parts  of 
gelatin,  which,  after  having  been  soaked  in  water,  is  dissolved  in  7 parts  of  glycerin. 
The  medicating  substance  should  be  soluble  in  the  vehicle.  Substances  containing  tannin 
are  evidently  not  adapted  for  this  mode  of  medication. 

Liquid,  glue  may  be  made  in  various  ways,  either  by  dissolving  glue  in  acetic  acid  or  by 
adding  to  a strong  aqueous  solution  of  glue,  nitric  acid,  equal  to  one-sixth  or  one-seventh 
of  the  weight  of  the  glue.  A solution  of  glue  in  spirit  of  nitrous  ether  is  stated  to  be 
very  serviceable,  particularly  if  a little  caoutchouc  has  been  added  to  it.  A solution  of 
phosphoric  acid  in  water,  nearly  neutralized  by  ammonium  carbonate,  has  likewise  been 
recommended  for  preparing  liquid  glue.  The  glue  becomes  water-proof  by  the  addition 
of  about  2 per  cent,  of  potassium  bichromate  immediately  preceding  the  application  of 
its  solution,  and  afterward  exposing  to  the  sunlight. 

Gelatin  also  forms  the  chief  constituent  of  the  mass  of  which  hectographs  are  made: 
40  parts  of  gelatin  or  light-colored  glue,  after  having  been  softened  by  water,  are  dis- 
solved with  the  aid  of  heat  in  100  parts  of  glycerin,  to  which  10  parts  of  simple  syrup 
and  5 parts  of  mucilage  of  gum-arabic  have  been  added  ; the  scum  is  removed  and  the 
mass  poured  out.  Finely-powdered  whiting  or  terra-alba  is  sometimes  added  to  the  mass. 


GELSEMITJM. 


7G9 

Hectograph  inks  are  made  by  dissolving  1 part  of  aniline  violet  or  other  similar  compound 
in  10  parts  each  of  acetic  acid  and  water.  After  copying,  the  ink  which  is  still  adhering 
to  the  mass  is  removed  with  a sponge  moistened  with  diluted  vinegar. 

Action  and  Uses. — Veit  ( Zeitsch . f.  Biologie,  1872,  S.  297)  concluded  from  his 
experiments  that  gelatin  contributes  nothing  directly  to  the  growth  of  the  tissues,  but 
that  owing  to  its  ready  decomposition  it  may,  by  substitution  for  the  albumen,  limit  the 
destruction  of  albuminous  tissues,  and  in  some  degree  also  the  waste  of  fat,  whose  func- 
tion is  analogous  to  its  own.  In  the  form  of  calves’-feet  jelly  it  is  employed  during 
convalescnece  from  acute  disease,  but  its  utility  probably  depends  in  part  upon  the  sugar, 
wine,  and  spices  that  season  it.  Solutions  of  gelatin  are  sometimes  used  to  allay  the 
irritation  of  the  mouth,  stomach,  etc.  produced  by  corrosive  poisons.  It  has  been  given 
by  enema  as  a lenitive  in  ulceration  of  the  rectum , and  a coating  of  it  has  been  applied  to 
cutaneous  eruptions  to  protect  them  from  the  air.  It  is  also  dissolved  in  baths  for  chronic 
diseases  of  the  skin,  to  remove  the  crusts  or  epidermic  scales,  or  simply  to  render  the  skin 
soft  and  pliable.  For  this  purpose  about  Gm.  500  (a  pound)  of  gelatin  dissolved  by 
boiling  water  is  added  to  the  bath  when  it  is  taken.  Gelatin  has  also  been  used  in  the 
same  manner  as  starch  to  prepare  an  immovable  apparatus  for  fractures , etc.  Catti  has 
proposed  the  introduction  of  gelatinous  cylinders  or  pencils  charged  with  astringent  or 
disinfecting  agents  into  the  nostrils  in  the  treatment  of  chronic  coryza , ozsena , etc. ; and 
Pick  strongly  advocates  the  use  of  medicated  gelatin,  instead  of  ointments,  in  the  treat- 
ment of  diseases  of  the  skin,  and  especially  of  eczema  { Central h.  f T/ier.,  i.  147). 

Gelosine  has  the  property  of  imbibing  liquids  with  great  increase  of  bulk,  and  of 
retracting  again  by  drying.  This  quality  has  been  made  use  of  in  bougies  formed  with 
it  for  the  treatment  of  strictures  {Bull,  et  Mem.  Soc.  Therap.,  1886,  p.  193).  A jelly 
obtained  from  it  by  hot  water  has  been  used  as  an  excipient  for  many  medicines  {Bull, 
de  Therap.,  cxi.  31). 

GELSEMIUM,  JJ.  S.,  Br, — Gelsemium. 

Radix  gelsemii. — Yellow  jessamine  or  jasmine,  E.  ; Jasmin  sauvage,  Fr.  ; Gelsemie , Gift- 
jasmin,  G. ; Gelsemio , Sp. 

The  rhizome  and  roots  of  Gelsemium  (Bignonia,  Linne;  Lisianthus,  Miller  ; Anonymos, 
Walter)  sempervirens,  Persoon , s.  Gels,  nitidum,  Michaux , s.  G.  lucidum,  Poiret.  Bentley 
and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  181  ; Meehan,  Native  Flowers,  i.  9. 

Nat.  Ord. — Loganiaceae,  Gelsemiese. 

Origin. — The  yellow  jessamine  is  indigenous  to  the  Southern  United  States,  growing 
in  moist  woods  from  Virginia  to  Florida  and  Alabama,  and  flowering  early  in  the  spring, 
beginning  to  bloom  in  Florida  in  January,  and  farther  north  in  March  or  April.  It  has 
a high  climbing  stem  with  opposite,  ovate-lanceolate,  entire,  smooth,  and  coriaceous  leaves, 
and  solitary  or  axillary  clusters  of  very  fragrant  flowers,  which  have  a bright-yellow, 
funnel-form,  five-lobed  corolla  25-38  Mm.  (1  to  1|  inches)  long,  and  produce  a flattened 
two-celled  fruit  containing  four  to  six  winged  seeds  in  each  cell.  The  root  and  the  sub- 
terraneous stem  are  the  parts  used  in  medicine. 

Description. — The  rhizome  is  about  25  Mm.  (one  inch)  or  more  in  diameter,  is 
externally  brown-yellow  with  purplish-brown  longitudinal  lines,  and  pTG  135 
breaks  with  a tough  splintery  fracture,  showing  silky  bast-fibres 
in  the  inner  closely-adhering  bark,  a porous  yellowish  wood  which  is 
traversed  by  whitish  medullary  rays,  and  a darker-colored  central  pith. 

The  roots  are  thinner,  similar  in  color  externally,  beset  with  numerous 
thin  fibres,  and  marked  by  irregular  longitudinal  wrinkles  and  small 
scars.  A transverse  section  shows  a thin  yellowish-brown  bark  cover- 
ing a hard,  pale-yellowish  meditullium  without  a central  pith,  but 
radially  striate  by  numerous  whitish  medullary  rays.  Fragments  of 
1 the  thin  purplish  over-ground  stem  are  occasionally  present  in  the 

commercial  article.  The  drug  has  a peculiar  heavy  aromatic  odor,  verse  section  °f  root- 
which  is  more  marked  when  a larger  quantity  is  examined.  The  taste  of  the  bark  is  not 
unpleasantly  bitter ; that  of  the  wood  is  but  slight. 

Constituents. — An  analysis  made  by  M.  II.  Kollock  (1855)  proved  the  existence 
of  an  alkaloid,  gelsemine,  besides  volatile  oil,  starch,  and  gummy  pectinaceous  and  resin- 
ous principles.  The  existence  of  the  alkaloid  was  corroborated  by  C.  L.  Eberle  (1868) 
and  Prof.  Wormley  (1870)  ; the  latter  obtained  it  (1877)  by  acidulating  a concentrated 
tincture  with  acetic  acid,  precipitating  the  resin  by  water,  concentrating  the  aqueous  fil- 
49 


770 


GELSEMTUM. 


trate,  removing  from  the  solution  gelsemic  or  gelseminic  acid  by  ether,  liberating  the  alka- 
loid by  sodium  carbonate,  and  extracting  it  by  ether  or  chloroform.  Dragendorff  (1878) 
recommended  a similar  process,  removing  gelsemic  acid  from  the  acid  liquid  by  chloro- 
form, and,  after  rendering  the  liquid  alkaline,  extracting  the  alkaloid  with  benzin  and 
chloroform.  It  is  amorphous,  white,  intensely  bitter,  strongly  alkaline,  and  slightly 
soluble  in  cold  water,  in  which  its  salts  dissolve  quite  readily.  Sulphuric  acid  produces 
a red  color,  changing  to  purple  when  heated,  nitric  acid  a greenish,  and  hydrochloric  acid 
a yellowish,  color.  C.  A.  Robbins  (1876)  obtained  for  it  the  empirical  formula  CnH19N02, 
and  observed  that  ceroso-ceric  oxide  imparts  to  the  sulphuric  acid  solution  a rose-cherry- 
red  color.  E.  Schwarz  (1882)  has  studied  its  reactions,  and  considers  the  most  charac^ 
teristic  one  to  be  with  sulphuric  trihydrate  in  excess,  followed  by  potassium  chromate 
(or  in  place  thereof  manganese  dioxide,  ceric  oxide,  or  lead  dioxide),  when  a cherry-red 
color  is  produced,  changing  to  dingy  gray-brown,  and  finally  to  green.  Frbhde’s  reagent 
colors  roe-brown  or  red-brown,  finally  yellowish-green.  Brouardet-Boutmy’s  reagent 
(potassium  ferricyanide,  followed  by  weak  solution  of  ferric  chloride ; this  produces 
Prussian  blue  with  most  of  the  ptomaines  or  cadaver  alkaloids)  gives  an  intense  green 
color ; Schneider  s reagent  (sugar  and  strong  sulphuric  acid)  colors  cherry -red ; and 
Selmi’s  reagent  (iodic  acid  suspended  in  sulphuric  acid),  rose-red. 

Robbins  regarded  the  gelsemic  acid  to  be  identical  with  sesculin , C15H]609,  a principle 
present  in  the  bark  of  the  horse-chestnut  (iEsculus  hippocastanum,  Linne ),  in  quassia,  red 
saunders,  etc.  It  crystallizes  in  colorless  prisms,  is  soluble  in  400  parts  of  cold  water, 
and  nearly  insoluble  in  chloroform  and  ether,  possesses  a bitterish  taste,  and  yields  with 
alkalies  in  extremely  dilute  solutions  a characteristic  fluorescence,  being  yellow  in  trans- 
mitted and  blue  in  reflected  light,  and  destroyed  by  acids.  iEsculin  is  a glucoside,  being 
split  by  dilute  acids  into  glucose  and  sesculetin , C9H604,  which  is  colored  yellow  by  alka- 
lies and  dark-green  by  ferric  chloride.  Dragendorff  and  Schwarz  noticed  the  strong 
fluorescence  of  gelsemic  acid,  but  did  not  examine  into  its  alleged  identity  with  aesculin. 
But  Prof.  Wormley  (1882)  has  shown  the  former  to  be  quite  distinct;  it  crystallizes 
very  readily,  dissolves  in  2912  parts  of  water,  in  330  parts  of  ether,  and,  with  a yellow- 
ish color,  in  cold  or  warm  sulphuric  acid,  and  is  insoluble  in  hydrochloric  acid ; its  solu- 
tion is  precipitated  by  silver  nitrate,  brownish-yellow,  darkening  to  blue-black  ; by  corro- 
sive sublimate,  yellowish,  crystallizing  in  needles ; by  bromine,  green,  turning  bluish  and 
brownish ; by  copper  sulphate,  dirty  brown,  turning  dull  red  and  crystallizing ; and  by 
lead  acetate,  yellow,  crystallizing.  Wormley  obtained  on  an  average  0.2  per  cent,  of  the 
alkaloid  and  0.4  per  cent,  of  the  acid.  The  ash  of  air-dry  root  amounts  to  4 per  cent. 
(Kollock). 

Action  and  Uses. — Gelsemine  induces  paralysis  both  of  sensation  and  motion, 
sometimes  of  the  one  first,  and  sometimes  of  the  other,  lowers  the  force  and  rate  of  the 
pulse  and  respiration,  reduces  the  temperature,  dilates  the  pupils,  projects  the  eyeballs, 
and  does  not  suspend  the  heart’s  action  until  after  respiration  has  ceased.  Death  is  apt 
to  be  preceded  by  intermittent  tetanoid  convulsions,  which  cannot  be  immediately  repro- 
duced like  those  excited  by  strychnine.  Dr.  Wormley  found  that  & grain  given  subcu- 
taneously to  a strong  cat  caused  death  in  one  and  a half  hours,  with  symptoms  of  great 
debility  ; that  £ grain  given  to  a frog  caused  prostration,  followed  by  tetanic  convulsions 
and  death  in  four  hours;  and  when  § grain  was  injected  into  the  peritoneum  of  a frog 
the  animal  opened  its  mouth  convulsively,  the  jaws  fell  at  intervals,  and  there  was  great 
muscular  prostration.  In  twenty  minutes  the  body  was  completely  relaxed,  and  reflex 
irritability  of  the  muscles  was  abolished,  including  that  of  the  heart,  which  was  arrested 
in  diastole  (Am.  Jour,  of  Phar .,  July,  1882,  p.  343).  According  to  Dr.  C.  G.  Davis,  the 
alkaloid  hastens  and  intensifies  the  tetanizing  action  of  strychnine  (Jour.  Amer.  Med. 
Assoc.,  ii.  128),  doubtless  by  lowering  the  tone  of  the  nervous  system,  just  as  it  causes 
tetany  when  given  alone.  The  results  of  Moritz’s  experiments  may  be  summarized  thus : 
Gelsemine  produces  in  warm-blooded  animals  excitation,  followed  by  depression,  and  even 
paralysis  of  the  brain  and  spinal  marrow.  It  first  quickens,  and  afterward  slows,  the 
respiration  and  renders  it  shallower.  On  the  heart  it  acts  only  through  the  respiration. 
Applied  to  one  eye,  it  dilates  the  pupil  and  disturbs  visual  accommodation.  The  peculiar 
tremor  caused  by  it  in  cold-blooded  animals  is  of  spinal  origin,  as  are  also  its  influence  on 
the  mode  of  respiration,  as  just  described,  and  the  slowing  of  the  heart  in  the  last  stage 
of  the  lethal  action  of  the  poison  (Archiv  f.  Pathol,  u.  Physiol.,  xi.  299  ; compare  Rouch, 
Bull,  de  Therap.,  civ.  527). 

Gelsemium  appears  to  be  one  of  the  toc-numerous  remedies  which  have  been  used  in  a 
great  variety  of  sthenic  febrile  diseases  upon  no  better  ground  than  their  power  of  lower- 


GENTIAN  A. 


771 


ing  the  pulse  and  depressing  the  nervous  system.  Incalculable  mischief  has  been  caused 
by  them,  and  still  more  is  likely  to  be  occasioned  by  gelsemium  in  febrile  affections. 
Some  persons  who  have  loudly  eulogized  it  as  an  antipyretic  have  been  at  great  pains  to 
explain,  in  opposition  to  the  popular  doctrine,  that  heat  is  death  and  cold  is  life ; that  we 
have  only  to  reduce  the  fever  temperature  to  the  normal  standard  or  below  it  to  cure 
febrile  disease ; and,  that,  therefore,  gelsemium  will  cure  fever.  Unfortunately  for  this 
mode  of  medical  reasoning,  gelsemium  does  not  reduce  the  temperature,  except  in  so  far 
as  it  threatens  to  destroy  life  through  its  poisonous  operation.  But  such  is  probably  not 
the  reduction  that  its  advocates  had  in  view.  Among  a host  of  incongruous  diseases 
which  are  said  to  have  been  “cured”  by  this  agent,  the  one  in  regard  to  which  very 
positive  testimony  exists  is  acute  or  rheumatic  neuralgia,  especially  of  the  first  and  second 
branches  of  the  fifth  nerve  ( Times  and  Gaz .,  Sept.  1886,  p.  421  ; Boston  Med.  and 
Surg.  Jour.,  Sept.  1888,  p.  243).  The  most  usual  testimony  is,  that  the  medicine  is  nearly 
inoperative  when  the  pain  affects  the  third  branch  of  the  fifth  pair  or  the  intercostal 
nerves.  And  there  are  cases  in  which,  when  the  trigeminus  alone  is  involved,  it  relieves 
the  inferior  dental  even  more  than  the  other  branches.  Undoubtedly,  acute  attacks  pro- 
duced by  cold  are  more  promptly  cured  than  others,  as,  indeed,  they  are  by  all  remedies 

that  cure  neuralgia  at  all.  But  some  physicians  have  abandoned  its  use,  because  it  was 
found  necessary  to  push  it  until  its  physiological  effects  are  produced  ( Therap . Gaz.,  ix. 

69).  It  has  also  been  employed  in  tetanus  {Med.  Record,  xxvi.  34)  and  in  torticollis 

{Med.  News , lv.  543).  Dr.  Bulkley  recommends  the  tincture  of  gelsemium  for  the  relief 
of  itching  in  chronic  eczema,  giving  it  in  10-drop  doses  every  half  hour  or  hour  until  the 
pruritus  is  relieved  {New  York  Med.  Jour.,  Jan.  1881).  It  is  claimed  to  relieve  the 
suffering  in  chronic  inflammation  of  the  neck  of  the  bladder  {Med.  Record,  xxx.  68). 
Dr.  Edson  claims  that  the  following  lotion  is  of  great  service  in  poisoning  by  Rhus  radi- 
cans  : R.  Acid,  carbolic.  £ss  ; Ext.  gelsemii  ff^ij  ; Glycerinae  ^ss  ; Aquae  ad.  !§iv. — S.  To 
be  kept  applied  on  cloths,  while  internally  2 minims  of  fluid  extract  of  gelsemium  are 
given  every  three  hours  {Med.  Record,  xxii.  121).  Gm.  0.20-60  (npiij-x)  of  the  fluid 
extract,  or  three  times  that  quantity  of  the  tincture,  may  be  given  every  two  hours. 
Like  digitalis,  aconite,  veratrum,  and  antimony,  it  may,  by  reducing  the  pulse,  prove 
useful  in  some  attacks  of  coryza,  congestion  of  the  brain,  mania,  and  meningitis.  To  the 
same  category  belongs  the  excited  stage  of  poisoning  by  opium  {Ther.  Gaz.,  xi.  429)  and 
of  sunstroke  {ibid.,  p.  645).  It  has  been  claimed  that  gelsemium  produces  tolerance  of 
quinine  in  certain  cases  intolerant  of  the  antiperiodic  alone ; that  it  is  efficient  in  convul- 
sions produced  by  teething  or  by  indigestion ; that  it  exhibits  peculiar  virtues  in  rattle- 
snake-bites ; that  it  expedites  labor  due  to  uterine  rigidity,  and  relieves  various  forms  of 
uterine  congestion,  etc.  (Davis,  loc.  cit.).  The  evidence  in  favor  of  these  claims  does  not 
uppear  to  be  sufficient.  The  proper  antidote  to  poisoning  by  gelsemium  is  morphine 
hypodermically  administered.  The  experiments  of  Rehfuss  {Inaug.  Thesis , Univ.  Pa., 
1884;  Ther.  Gaz.,  ix.  655)  ascribe  an  equal  efficacy  to  atropine,  but  deny  to  both  a power 
of  neutralizing  a lethal  dose  of  gelsemium.  Tincture  of  nux  vomica  is  said  to  have  had 
a similar  effect  {Canad.  Phar.  Jour,  and  Ann.  de  Therap.,  1888,  p.  321).  General 
stimulation  by  mechanical  means,  rubefacients,  and  heat,  and  the  administration  of 
ammonia,  coffee,  and  alcohol,  the  last  hypodermically,  should  be  employed  after  the 
stomach  has  been  evacuated  by  mustard  and  water,  sulphate  of  zinc,  tickling  the  fauces, 
etc.  Behfuss,  however,  found  that  in  animals  alcohol  displayed  but  feeble  antidotal 
powers,  and  that  ammonium  carbonate  intensified  the  action  of  the  poison. 

GENTIAN  A,  U.  S.— Gentian. 

Gentianse  radix,  Br. ; Radix  gentianse,  P.  A.,  P.  G. ; Radix  genfianse  rnhrse  vel  lutese  {vel 
majoris). — Gentian-root,  E.  ; Racine  degentiane  {de gentiaue  jaune ),  Fr. ; Enzianwurzel,  Bit- 
terwurzel,  Rother  {Gelber')  Enzian,  G.  ; Genciana,  Sp. 

The  root  of  Gentiana  lutea,  Liane.  Steph.  and  Church,  Med.  Bot.,  plate  132  ; Bentley 
and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  182. 

Nat.  Ord. — Gentianaceae. 

Origin. — Gentian  is  indigenous  to  the  mountainous  regions  of  Southern  and  Central 
Europe,  from  Portugal  eastward  to  Bosnia,  and  as  far  north  as  Central  Germany.  It  has 
a thick  hollow  stem  0.6  to  1.2  M.  (2-4  feet)  high,  opposite,  entire,  five-  to  seven-nerved 
leaves,  and  axillary  clusters  of  pedicellate  flowers  with  a bright-yellow,  five-lobed,  spotted 
corolla,  and  producing  a one-celled,  ovate  capsule  containing  numerous  oval,  compressed, 
and  winged  seeds. 


772 


GENTIAN  A. 


The  following  species  agree  in  medicinal  properties  with  the  preceding,  and  their  roots 
are  recognized  by  different  pharmacopoeias,  and  are  collected  indiscriminately  in  localities 
where  the  plants  grow.  Gent,  purpurea,  Linne , has  yellowish-purple  flowers,  and  grows 
in  the  Alps  and  Carpathian  Mountains  and  in  Southern  Norway.  Gent,  pannonica, 
Scopoli , has  dark-purple  flowers,  and  is  met  with  in  the  mountains  of  Austria.  Gent, 
punctata,  Linne , with  yellow7,  but  purple-dotted,  flowers,  is  indigenous  to  the  Alps  and 
eastward  to  the  Balkan  Mountains. 

Description. — The  fleshy  and  branching  usually  several-headed  root  attains  a length 
of  over  60  Cm.  (2  feet)  and  a diameter  of  about  38  Mm.  (1J  inches),  but  appears  in 
commerce  always  in  shorter  pieces,  the  thicker  ones  being  longitudinally  sliced  before 
drying.  The  abrupt  or  concave  somewhat  conical  heads  are  closely  annulated  ; below 
this  portion  the  root  is  deeply  wrinkled  longitudinally,  with  an  overlapping  bark  in  the 
longitudinally  split  pieces;  it  is  of  a yellowish-brown  color,  the  surface  darker  and  gray- 
ish and  the  fracture  short,  of  a slight  waxy  lustre,  and  with  numerous  minute  brown 
dots.  The  transverse  section  shows  a faint  radiating  arrangement  only  near  the  dark 
cambium-line,  and  a fleshy  meditullium  which  is  about  six  times  thicker  than  the  bark. 
Liber-fibres  and  wood-fibres  are  wanting,  and  are  replaced  by  axially  somewhat  elongated 
parenchyma ; the  spiral  and  scalariform  ducts  are  accompanied  by  sieve-tubes.  The  root 
is  vefy  hygroscopic,  contains  14  to  18  per  cent,  of  water,  and  is  tough  and  flexible  in 
damp  weather.  It  has  a faint  but  heavy  characteristic  odor,  which  is  more  prominent 
in  a hot  infusion ; its  taste  is  sweetish,  then  strongly  bitter,  but  free  from  astringency  or 
acridity.  The  importation  of  gentian  into-  the  United  States  averages  about  200,000 
pounds  annually. 

The  roots  of  the  other  species  of  Gentiana  mentioned  above  are  rather  shorter  and 
thinner,  and  those  of  G.  pannonica  are  scarcely  annulate. 

Constituents. — Kromayer  (1862)  was  the  first  who  isolated  the  pure  bitter  princi- 
ple, which  in  many  previous  analyses  had  been  obtained  in  an  impure  extract-like  form. 
The  yellow  crystalline  gentianin  of  Henry  and  Caventou  (1821)  was  in  1837  proven,  by 
Trommsdorff  and  by  Leconte,  to  be  tasteless,  and  merely  contaminated  with  some  of  the 
bitter  matter.  This  gentisin , gentisic  or  gentiavic  acid , may  be  obtained  by  washing  the 
alcoholic  extract  of  gentian  with  cold  water  to  remove  the  bitter  principle,  afterward 
with  some  cold  ether  to  remove  fat,  and  crystallizing  from  alcohol.  Its  composition  is 
Ci4H10O5.  It  forms  bright-yellow,  tasteless  crystals  requiring  5000  parts  of  water,  200(1. 
parts  of  ether,  and  nearly  500  parts  of  cold  alcohol  for  solution  ; it  is  soluble  in  alkalies 
and  by  ferric  chloride  colored  brown  (Leconte).  Patch  (1881)  determined  it  to  be  solu- 
ble in  280  parts  of  cold  and  120  parts  of  hot  alcohol  and  in  400  parts  of  ether,  to  become 
dark-green  with  nitric  acid,  and  to  dissolve  unchanged  in  sulphuric  acid  ; it  melts  above 
100°  0.,  and  on  cooling  congeals  crystalline.  Hlasiwetz  and  Habermann  (1875)  obtained 
from  it,  by  fusion  with  caustic  potassa,  phloroglucm , acetic  and  oxysalicylic  (gentmnic) 
acid , the  latter  being  C7H604,  and  isomeric  with  protocatechuic  acid.  The  infusion  of 
gentian  yields  with  gelatin  a slight  precipitate,  which,  after  having  been  washed  with 
water,  is  not  colored  dark  with  ferric  chloride.  We  showed  (1876)  the  absence  of  tan- 
nin from  gentian-root,  and  this  was  corroborated  by  Van  Itallie  (1888).  J.  Yille  (1877) 
was  inclined  to  regard  gentisin  as  gentio-tanmc  acid.  But  after  the  separation  of  pectin 
compounds  the  infusion  yields  no  precipitate  with  gelatin,  and  fresh  hide  fails  to  remove 
any  principle  reacting  with  ferric  salts.  Prof.  Patch  (1881),  however,  has  shown  that 
the  resinous  matter  is  associated  with  a principle  giving  a greenish-black  color  with  ferric 
chloride,  and  precipitates  with  cinchonidine  sulphate,  tartar  emetic,  and  gelatin  after, 
respectively,  two,  six,  and  twenty-four  hours ; this  principle  has  not  been  isolated. 

Gentiopicrin , C30H30O12,  the  bitter  principle  of  gentian,  is  contained  in  the  aqueous  solu- 
tion of  the  alcoholic  extract,  from  which  it  is  absorbed  by  animal  charcoal ; this  is  boiled 
with  alcohol,  the  solution  concentrated,  treated  with  lead  oxide  to  remove  color,  freed 
from  lead  by  hydrogen  sulphide,  agitated  with  ether,  and  crystallized.  It  is  very 
soluble  in  water  and  diluted  alcohol,  insoluble  in  ether,  dissolves  with  alteration  in  alka- 
lies, and  by  dilute  acids  is  split  into  glucose  and  gentiogenin , C14H]605,  which  is  vellowish- 
brown,  bitter,  insoluble  in  water,  and  has  the  same  composition  as  physalin  (from  Physalis 
Alkekengi).  Kromayer  states  that  crystallizable  gentiopicrin  is  obtainable  only  from 
fresh,  not  from  dried,  gentian-root. 

Gentian  contains  no  starch,  but  a considerable  amount  of  pectin  and  12  to  15  per  cent, 
of  amorphous  sugar,  to  which  the  hygroscopic  nature  of  the  root  is  due.  A.  Meyer  (1882) 
obtained  a slightly-sweet,  fermentable  crystalline  sugar,  gentianose, C16H6603],  which  does 
not  reduce  Fehling’s  solution.  By  fermentation  a potable  spirit  is  obtained  from  it  in 


GERANIUM. 


773 


Switzerland  and  Southern  Germany.  The  air-dry  root  yields  8.28  per  cent,  of  ash,  con- 
sisting mainly  of  calcium  carbonate  (Fliickiger). 

American  Gentians. — Several  of  the  blue-flowering  gentians  of  North  America  are  botanically 
very  similar,  and  some  confusion  has  existed  concerning  their  identity,  which  is  best  shown  by 
placing  the  species  and  their  synonyms  together,  as  at  present  recognized.  We  thus  have — 

(1)  G.  puberula,  Michaux;  G.  Saponaria,  var.  puberula  (Gray's  Man.,  edit.  1);  G.  Catesbaei, 
Elliott;  and  G.  Elliottii,  Chapman. 

(2)  G.  Saponaria,  Limit;  G.  Catesbaei,  Walter. 

(3)  G.  Andrewsii,  Grisebach ; G.  Saponaria,  Frcelich ; G.  fimbriata,  Vahl. 

The  first  species  is  indigenous  to  the  States  south  of  North  Carolina,  and  to  most  States  from 
the  Alleghanies  to  the  Mississippi ; the  second  is  met  with  from  the  mountains  of  North  Caro- 
lina to  New  York  and  westward  to  Minnesota-,  the  third  species  is  common  in  the  Middle 
States  and  northward.  We  believe  that  the  blue  gentian-root , as  found  in  commerce,  is  collected 
indiscriminately  from  the  above  three  species.  It  is  the  Gentiana  Catesbaei,  U.  S.  1870. 

The  subterraneous  part  of  these  plants  consists  of  an  indistinctly  annulated  head  about  13  Mm. 
(J  inch)  long  and  3 Mm.  inch)  thick,  which,  at  its  base,  is  furnished  with  a number  of  fleshy 
nearly  simple  rootlets  about  37  Mm.  (3  inches)  or  more  in  length.  When  dry  they  are  of  a pale- 
brownish  color,  with  a distinct  yellow  or  orange  hue,  and  short,  deep  longitudinal  wrinkles,  devoid 
of  fibres,  quite  brittle,  and  breaking  with  a short  or  somewhat  spongy  fracture,  which  is  pale-yel- 
low. The  bark  is  thick  and  the  ligneous  cord  quite  thin.  The  odor  and  taste  are  gentian-like. 
We  have  found  it  occasionally  mixed  with  a root  of  unknown  origin  of  similar  dimensions  and 
appearance,  but  having  a gray  hue,  a tough  fibrous  bark,  and  a sweetish  scarcely  bitter  taste. 
From  experiments  made  with  the  root  we  conclude  that  its  constituents  are  probably  identical 
with  those  of  G.  lutea. 

Frasera  Carolinensis,  Walter  (Fr.  Walteri,  Michaux ),  is  a tall  biennial  or  triennial  herb  grow- 
ing from  the  Alleghany  Mountains  westward  to  the  Mississippi.  From  the  appearance  of  the  dried 
transverse  slices  the  root  became  known  as  American  Colombo  ( Radix  Colombo  americance ; Racine 
de  Colombo  de  Mariette  (d' Amtrique),  Fr. ; Amerikanische  Colombowurzel , G.).  It  is  easily  distin- 
guished from  calumba  by  the  absence  of  the  projecting  vascular  bundles  in  the  interior  and  of 
the  radiating  zone  near  the  cambium.  It  is  now  generally  dried  in  longitudinal  slices,  the  bark 
overlapping.  The  tissue  upon  transverse  section  is  pretty  uniform  in  appearance,  the  vascular 
bundles  being  nearly  imperceptible  in  the  fleshy  parenchyma;  the  rather  thick  bark  shows  two 
different  colored  layers,  and  a dark-brown  cambium-line  separates  it  from  the  meditullium. 
When  dry  it  has  a slight  odor ; the  odor  of  the  infusion  is  similar  to  that  of  gentian ; its  taste 
is  sweet  and  bitter  and  free  from  astringency.  G.  W.  Kennedy  (1873)  obtained  from  the  drug 
gentiopicrin.  Prof.  J.  U.  Lloyd  (1880)  prepared  the  coloring  matter  in  tufts  of  lemon-yellow 
isilky  needles;  Prof.  Patch  (1881)  proved  it  to  differ  from  gentisic  acid  of  gentian  ; and  Trimble 
and  Lloyd  (1891)  separated  it  into  two  principles,  melting  at  114°  and  178°  C.  respectively, 
both  being  nearly  insoluble  in  water,  sparingly  soluble  in  benzin  and  benzol,  soluble  in  alcohol, 
ether,  and  chloroform,  colored  dark-green  by  ferric  salts,  and  not  precipitated  by  lead  acetate. 
American  Colombo  is  therefore  closely  analogous  to  gentian,  from  which  it  appears  to  differ 
chemically  in  containing  less  of  the  bitter  principle  than  the  latter,  and  a larger  proportion  of 
two  distinct  yellow  coloring  matters. 

Medical  Action  and  Uses. — Gentian  is  a pure  and  simple  bitter.  In  mode- 
rate doses  it  excites  the  appetite  and  strengthens  the  digestion  and  does  not  constipate. 
If  used  too  long  or  too  freely,  it  is  apt  to  occasion  headache  and  a full  pulse  and  to  ren- 
der the  sweat  and  urine  bitter.  It  is  a valuable  remedy  for  atonic  dyspepsia,  such  as 
accompanies  general  debility,  and  especially  that  which  is  apt  to  occur  in  persons  of  a 
gouty  habit.  It  was  formerly  used  in  the  cure  of  mild  intermittent  fevers.  The  nomi- 
nal dose  of  gentian  in  powder  is  from  Gm.  0.60  to  2.00  (10-30  grains),  but  it  is  always  pre- 
scribed in  the  form  of  extract,  fluid  extract,  or  compound  tincture,  all  of  which  are  officinal. 

American  gentian  is  employed  to  some  extent  in  popular  practice  in  the  southern  por- 
tion of  the  United  States  for  the  same  diseases  and  in  the  same  manner  as  European 
gentian.  Frasera,  when  fresh,  is  said  to  have  emetic  and  purgative  properties,  and  has 
been  compared  in  its  action  to  rhubarb.  The  dried  root  is  also  reputed  to  have  the  tonic 
properties  of  simple  bitters,  and  may  be  given  in  an  infusion  made  with  Gm.  32  to  Gm. 
500  (^i  to  Oj)  of  boiling  water.  Dose,  Gm.  30-60  (1  to  2 fluidounces). 

GERANIUM,  U.  S. — Geranium. 

Cranesbill-root , E. ; Racine  de  geranium  macule,  Bec-de-grue  tachete , Pied-de-corneillr , 
Fr.  ; Fleckstorchschnabel,  G. ; Geranio,  Sp. 

The  rhizome  of  Geranium  maculatum,  Linne.  Bigelow,  Med.  Bot.,  i.  t.  8 ; Bentley  and 
Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  42. 

Nat.  Ord. — Geraniaceae. 

Origin. — This  perennial  herb  is  very  common  in  rich  woods  in  most  parts  of  Canada 
and  the  United  States  westward  to  Kansas,  and  it  flowers  from  April  to  July.  The  stem 


774 


GERANIUM. 


is  from  30  to  60  Cm.  (1-2  feet)  high ; the 
hairy  leaves,  when  old,  become  blotched  with 
white,  and  are  palmately  five-  or  seven-lobed, 
with  wedge-shaped  divisions,  which  are  coarse- 
ly toothed  above ; the  light-purple  flowers  are 
in  loose  terminal  umbels ; the  fruit  is  long- 
beaked,  with  five  one-seeded  carpels,  which 
separate  when  ripe,  curving  upward  together 
with  the  style,  which  separates  from  the  beak. 
The  horizontal  rhizome  should  be  collected  late  in  summer  or  in  autumn. 

Description. — It  is  5 to  7 Cm.  (2-3  inches)  long,  6 to  12  Mm.  Q— \ inch)  in  diam- 
eter when  fresh,  little  branched,  but  tuberculated  with  the  remnants  of  the  stems,  longi- 
tudinally wrinkled,  with  indistinct  nodes,  dark -brown  externally,  pale  red-brown  internally. 
It  breaks  with  a nearly  smooth  fracture,  showing  a thin  bark  and  the  small,  yellowish, 
broadly  wedge-shaped  wood-bundles  arranged  in  a circle  near  the  cambium,  separated  by 
broad  medullary  rays,  and  enclosing  a large  central  pith.  It  has  no  odor ; its  taste  is 
purely  astringent.  The  rootlets  are  mostly  on  the  lower  side,  and  are  much  shrunken, 
fragile,  and  branched  into  hair-like  fibres. 

Constituents. — The  analyses  of  Staples  (1829),  Bigelow  (1833),  and  Mayers  (1889) 
indicate,  besides  tannin,  the  presence  of  gallic  acid,  starch,  resin,  sugar,  mucilage,  etc. 
Bowman  (1869)  found  13  to  17  per  cent.,  and  Mayers  11.5  per  cent.,  of  tannin,  which  has  not 
been  further  investigated.  A crystalline  principle,  observed  by  Staples,  was  ascertained 
by  Mayers  to  be  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  and  petroleum  benzin.  The  red  color  of  the  tissue 
is  due  to  phlobaphen. 

Allied  Plants  and  Drugs. — Geranium  Robertianum,  Linne. — Herb  Robert,  E. ; Herbe  a 
Robert,  Fr. ; Rupreehtskraut,  G. — It  grows  in  shady  thickets  and  woods  in  Europe, . in  Canada, 
and  from  New  England  westward  to  Missouri ; has  an  erect  branching  stem,  deeply  dissected  and 
pinnatifid  leaves,  and  rose-  or  purplish-colored  flowers.  It  has  a strong  rather  unpleasant  odor 
and  a bitterish,  saline,  and  astringent  taste.  It  contains  tannin  and  a bitter  principle. 

Erodium  (Geranium,  Linne)  cicutarium,  V HGritier — Storksbill — indigenous  to  the  Levant 
and  Southern  Europe,  is  sparingly  naturalized  in  the  Eastern  United  States,  but  is  common  :n 
Utah  and  west  of  the  Rocky  Mountains,  where  it  is  known  as  alfilaria,  pinclover,  and  pingrass. 
It  has  a low  spreading  stem,  pinnate  leaves  with  the  leaflets  sessile  and  pinnatifid,  and  pale- 
reddish  flowers.  The  odor  of  the  bruised  plant  resembles  that  of  carrot. 

Erodium  mosciiatum,  Alton , is  found  near  the  Mediterranean  and  in  Southern  Africa,  and 
resembles  the  preceding,  but  has  a rather  strong  musk-like  odor. 

Rhizoma  tormentilla;  Tormentil,  E. ; Tormentille,  Fr. ; Tormentillwurzel,  G. — .Potentilla 
Tormentilla,  Schrank  (Tormentilla  erecta,  Linne),  order  Rosacese,  Potentilleae,  is  indigenous  to 
Europe  and  Northern  Asia,  and  resembles  our  cinquefoil.  The  rhizome,  which  is  recognized  by 
the  pharmacopoeias  of  Southern  and  Western  Europe,  is  about  5 Cm.  (2  inches)  long,  of  the  thick- 
ness of  a finger,  dark  gray-brown,  with  numerous  irregular  protuberances,  internally  light 
brownish-red  ; fracture  short,  somewhat  resinous,  showing  a thin  bark,  one  or  two  circles  of 


Tormentilla  : rhizome  and  transverse  section. 


Fig.  136. 


Geranium  maculatum  : rhizome  and  transverse  section 
of  rhizome  and  rootlets,  natural  size. 


small  yellowish  wood-wedges,  broad  medullary  rays,  and  a large  pith.  The  faint  rose-like  odor 
of  fresh  tormentil  disappears  on  drying;  the  taste  is  strongly  astringent. 

According  to  Meissner  (1822),  tormentil  contains  17.5  per  cent.  (24  to  30  per  cent.,  Bowman, 
1869)  of  tannin,  18  tormentil-red,  also  some  wax,  resin,  etc.  Rembold  (1867)  found  ellagic  and 
kinovic  acids  ; the  tannin  yields  tormentil-red,  and  this,  with  potassium  hydrate,  gives  protoeate- 
clmic  acid  and  phloroglucin.  The  presence  of  calcium  oxalate  was  proven  by  Scheele. 

Potentilla  anserina,  Linnd. — Silverwecd,  E. : Argentine,  Anserine,  Fr. : Giinserich,  Sill>er- 

kraut  G. This  plant  has  solitary,  long-peduncled  flowers,  and  radical,  interruptedly  pinnate 

leaves,  composed  of  nine  to  nineteen  oblong,  deeply  serrate  leaflets,  which  are  silvery  white  and 

1 Pot!  argentea,  Limit,  Silvery  cinquefoil,  has  an  ascending  stem,  palmately  five-foliate  leaves, 


GERANIUM. 


775 


Fig.  138. 


Bistorta,  natural  size. 


and  wedge-oblong,  incised,  and  beneath  silvery  canescent  leaflets.  This  and  the  preceding  species 
are  recognized  by  the  French  Codex. 

Pot.  fruticosa,  Linnt,  Shrubby  cinquefoil,  is  shrubby,  about  0.9  M.  (3  feet)  high,  has  pin- 
nate leaves,  with  five  to  seven  linear  or  lance-oblong,  entire,  and  silky  leaflets,  and  numerous 

flowers. 

Pot.  palustris,  Scopoli , s.  Comarum  palustre,  Limit,  Marsh  cinquefoil,  has  the  leaves  with  five 
or  seven  lance-oblong  underneath-whitish  leaflets  and  purple-colored  flowers.  Like  the  three  pre- 
ceding species,  it  is  indigenous  to  Europe  and  North  America. 

Pot.  reptaxs,  Linnt. — Creeping  cinquefoil,  E. ; Potentille  rampante,  Quintefeuille,  Fr. ; Fiinf- 
fingerkraut,  G. — It  grows  in  moist  fields  in  Europe  and  Asia  ; has  slender,  creeping  stems,  long- 
petiolate,  palmately  five-foliate  leaves,  oblong-obovate,  deeply  serrate  leaflets,  and  single,  axillary, 
long-stalked  flowers.  It  resembles  the  indigenous  Pot.  canadensis,  Linnt , which  has  been  employed 
in  its  stead. 

With  the  exception  noted,  all  the  above  species  of  Potentilla  have  yellow  flowers ; they  are 
inodorous,  and  their  roots  and  herbaceous  portions  have  a slightly  astringent  and  bitterish  taste. 
They  contain  some  tannin,  a small  quantity  of  bitter  principle,  mucilage,  and  other  common 
constituents. 

BrsTORTA,  Bistort.  Snakeweed,  E. ; Bistorte,  Couleuvrine,  Fr. ; Wiesenknoterich,  Natterwurz, 
G. — Polygonum  Bistorta,  Limit,  order  Polygonaceae,  grows  in  the  northern  hemisphere,  in  swampy 
meadows,  in  the  United  States  from 
Colorado  northward.  The  rhizome, 
which  is  recognized  by  the  pharma- 
copoeias of  Western  Europe,  is  about 
12  M.  (?  inch)  broad,  S-shaped,  some- 
what annulate  from  the  leaf-scars, 
blackish-brown,  internally  reddish; 
fracture  nearly  smooth,  showing  a 
moderately  thick  bark,  numerous 
small  wood-bundles  in  one  circle,  and 
a large  pith ; it  is  inodorous,  and 
has  a strongly  astringent  taste.  Bis- 
tort contains  starch,  calcium  oxalate, 
phlobaphen,  tannin  (21  per  cent., 
according  to  Bowman,  1869),  and  probably  gallic  acid. 

Extraction  Bistortce , Fr.  Cod.,  is  prepared  with  cold  water. 

The  herbs  of  most  species  of  Polygonum  have  a slight  astringent  and.  more  or  less  saline  or 
acidulous  taste,  and  have  been  occasionally  employed  as  mild  astringents.  Pol.  Persicaria,  Linnt, 
the  spotted  knotweed  or  lady's  thumb,  has  the  lanceolate  leaves  usually  marked  near  the  middle 
with  a brown  semilunar  or  triangular  spot.  Pol.  amphibium,  Linnt,  or  water-knotweed , grows 
in  ponds,  swamps,  and  in  damp  sandy  soil,  is  variable  in  appearance,  and  has  the  rose-red  flowers 
in  dense  spikes.  Pol.  aviculare,  Linnt , known  as  knot-grass,  birdweed,  or  goose-grass,  is  occa- 
sionally erect,  but  usually  has  the  slender  branches  prostrate  or  ascending,  and  bears  two  to  four 
inconspicuous  greenish  and  reddish  flowers  in  the  axils  of  the  small  leaves.  Pol.  hydropiperoides, 
Michaux , or  mild  water-pepper , has  narrow  lanceolate  leaves  and  slender  spikes  of  whitish  flowers  • 
it  is  indigenous  to  North  America,  while  the  three  preceding  species  are  common  in  both  hemi- 
spheres. 

Medical  Action  and  Uses. — Geranium  is  a pure  astringent,  and  may  be  profitably 
used  in  the  treatment  of  subacute  and  chronic  diarrhoea.  A decoction  of  it  in  milk  is 
employed  in  cholera  infantum.  A decoction,  made  with  an  ounce  of  the  root  in  H pints 
of  water  boiled  to  a pint,  is  sometimes  used  in  aphthae  of  the  mouth  and  fauces,  in  relaxed 
conditions  of  the  throat , vagina,  and  rectum,  to  restrain  internal  haemorrhages,  and  to  cure 
h ncorrhcea,  gleet,  prolapsus  ani,p.  uteri,  fissures  of  the  rectum , etc.  The  dose  may  be  stated 
at  from  Gm.  1.30  to  2.60  (grs.  xx-xl)  of  the  powdered  rhizome  or  from  Gm.  32  to  64 
03Hj)  of  the  decoction.  The  fluid  extract  is  to  be  preferred. 

Geranium  Ptobertianum.  like  the  officinal  plant,  has  been  much  valued  in  Europe  for  its 
astringent  and  cleansing  virtues,  and  employed  in  the  treatment  of  sore  throat,  superficial 
inflammations  and  eruptions  of  the  skin,  in  engorgement  of  glands,  ophthalmia,  etc.  Inter- 
nally, it  was  given  as  a diuretic  for  the  relief  of  gravel,  also  for  haemorrhages,  etc. 

Erodium  moschatum  was  used  as  a diaphoretic. 

Erodium  cicutarium  attracted  some  attention  in  1859  as  a diuretic  in  dropsy,  and  in 
1863  similar  reports  of  its  efficacy  were  published.  A decoction  was  made  with  2 ounces 
of  the  whole  plant  in  3 pints  of  water  reduced  to  2 pints,  and  it  was  prescribed  in  doses 
of  4 or  5 fluidounces  three  times  a day. 

Bistorta,  Potentilla,  and  Tormentilla  are  used  for  the  same  purposes  as  geranium. 
Other  species  of  Polygonum  (e.  g.  hydropiper)  have  a decidedly  stimulant  quality. 


776 


G El] M.— GILL  EN I A . 


GEUM. — W ater- Avens. 

Radix  caryophyllatse  aquaticse,  Radix  benedictse  sylvestris. — Racine  de  benoite  aquatique 
(de  benoite  des  ruisseaux ),  Fr. ; Sumpfnelkenwurzel , Wasser-Benedikten-  Wurzel,  G. 

The  rhizome,  with  the  rootlets,  of  Geuin  rivale,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Rosaceae,  Dryadeae. 

Origin.— This  perennial  plant  grows  in  wet  meadows  and  moist  woods  in  hilly  local- 
ities of  North  America  from  Pennsylvania  northward,  and  is  likewise  indigenous  to  Cen- 
tral and  Northern  Europe  and  Northern  Asia.  It  has  a stem  30-60  Cm.  (1  to  2 feet) 
high,  with  lyrate  or  interruptedly  pinnate  root-leaves  and  trifoliate  or  three-lobed  stem- 
leaves,  the  leaflets  or  lobes  being  obovate  or  cuneate-oblong ; the  bell-shaped  calyx  is 
purplish-brown  ; the  five  petals  are  clawed,  purplish-yellow,  and  veined. 

Description. — The  rhizome  is  nearly  horizontal,  5-7  Cm.  (2  to  3 inches)  long,  about 
6 Mm.  (i  inch)  thick,  somewhat  branched,  tuberculate  above  from  the  bases  of  the  stems, 
and  there  densely  beset  with  red-brown  hairy  leaf-sheaths.  It  is  externally  blackish- 
brown,  breaks  with  a rather  short  and  waxy  fracture,  and  has  a thin  purplish-brown  bark, 
brown-gray  pith,  and  small  distant  light-colored  wood-wedges.  It  has  a very  faint  some- 
what clove-like  odor  and  a bitterish-astringent  taste. 

Water-avens  has  not  been  analyzed  ; its  constituents  are  probably  similar  to  those  of 
the  yellow-flowered  Geum  urbanum,  Linne , or  avens , which  grows  in  Europe  in  woods  and 
shady  places,  and  has  an  oblique  or  perpendicular  rhizome  25-50  Mm.  (1  or  2 inches)  in 
length,  abrupt  below,  or  passing  into  the  main  or  tap-root ; it  is  hard,  dark-brown,  tuber- 
culate, and  beset  with  dark-brown  membranous  scales ; the  numerous  thin  fibres  are 
pale-brown,  and  7-10  Cm.  (3  to  4 inches)  long ; the  wood  is  in  five  or  six  broad  and 
rounded  wedges  and  encloses  a large  purplish  pith.  It  has  a distinct  clove-like  odor 
and  a bitter  astringent  taste.  It  is  known  in  Europe  as  radix  caryophyllatse.  Geum 
japonicum,  Thunberg , resembles  it  in  appearance  and  properties,  but  has  a brown  horny 
centre. 

Constituents. — Avens,  according  to  Buchner  (1844),  contains  a .small  quantity  of 
a volatile  oil  possessing  acid  properties,  about  3 per  cent,  of  tannin,  and  a bitter  princi- 
ple which  appears  likewise  to  possess  acid  properties.  The  remaining  constituents,  sugar, 
fat,  resin,  etc.,  are  not  of  medicinal  importance. 

Action  and  Uses. — Water-avens  is  in  its  action  very  like  avens,  G.  urbanum. 
Both  are  very  astringent  and  more  or  less  tonic.  Like  other  agents  with  these  qualities, 
it  is  apt  to  derange  the  digestion  and  cause  vomiting  if  too  freely  given.  It  has  been 
employed  in  all  forms  of  diseases  of  the  mucous  membranes  depending  upon  relaxation 
and  attended  with  excessive  and  altered  secretions,  including  atonic  dyspepsia,  diarrhoea , 
bronchorrhcea,  leucorrhcea , etc.  It  has  also  been  used  in  chronic  rheumatism , scrofula. 
slight  intermittent  fever , and  in  menstrual  derangements  depending  on  debility.  The  dose 
is  represented  by  about  Gm.  2 (gr.  xxx)  of  the  powdered  root,  but  it  is  best  adminis- 
tered in  a decoction  made  by  boiling  Gm.  32  (an  ounce)  of  the  root  in  a pint  of  water, 
which  may  be  given  in  doses  of  1 or  2 fluidounces. 


GILLENIA.— Gillenia, 

Indian  physic , Indian  hippo , American  ipecac , Bowman's  root , E. ; GilUnie , Fr. ; Gd- 
lenie , G. 

The  rhizome,  with  the  rootlets,  of  Gillenia  (Spiraea,  Linne ) trifoliata,  Moench,  and  of 
Gillenia  stipulacea,  Nuttall  (Spir.  stipulate,  W illdenow). 

Nat.  Ord. — Rosaceae,  Spiraeeae. 

Origin. — Both  species  are  perennial  herbs  indigenous  to  the  United  States,  the  first 
being  found  almost  exclusively  east  of  the  Alleghanies  from  New  York  south  to  Georgia  ; 
the  other  is  found  from  New  York  westward  and  southward  to  Alabama.  The  plants  are 
60  to  90  Cm.  (2  to  3 feet)  high,  branched,  with  nearly  sessile,  trifoliate,  doubly  serrate, 
or  incised  leaves,  and  loose  corymbs  of  pale  rose-colored  or  white  flowers,  the  calyx  of 
which  is  tubular  and  constricted  at  the  throat,  the  five  unequal  petals  being  long  linear- 
lanceolate.  The  two  plants  are  readily  distinguished  by  their  stipules,  which  in  G.  trifo- 
liata are  awl-shaped  and  entire,  and  in  G.  stipulacea  are  large,  leaf-like,  ovate,  and  incised. 
The  rhizome  and  rootlets  are  employed. 

Description. — The  rhizome  of  G.  stipulacea,  which  is  usually  found  in  commerce, 


GLECHOMA. 


777 


is  nearly  horizontal,  about  25  Mm.  (1  inch) 
thick,  very  knotty  from  the  numerous  branches' 
and  remnants  of  stems.  The  larger  rootlets  are 
9 Mm.  (|  inch)  thick  near  the  base,  tortuous, 
irregularly  branched ; the  smaller  rootlets  are 
undulated,  and  have  a knotty  or  annulated  ap- 
pearance from  the  semicircular  constrictions  and 
the  transverse  fissure  of  the  bark  on  one  side 
and  the  depressions  on  the  opposite  side.  The 
rhizome  and  rootlets  of  G.  trifoliata  are  smaller 
and  less  knotty,  the  rootlets  often  smooth  or 
indistinctly  annulated,  and  with  few  or  no  trans- 
verse fissures.  Both  have  a reddish-  or  grayish- 
brown  color  externally,  and  are  hard  and  very 
woody,  breaking  with  some  difficulty  except 
through  the  brittle  bark.  The  bark  of  the 
rhizome  is  thin,  the  wood,  about  eight  times 
thicker,  of  a whitish  color,  with  several  annual 
rings  enclosing  a thin  pith  and  traversed  by  fine 
medullary  rays.  The  bark  of  the  root  is  of 
uneven  thickness,  in  its  outer  layer  brownish- 
red,  the  inner  layer  reddish-white,  with  numerous 
minute  red  resinous  dots.  The  odor  is  very  slight ; 
the  taste  of  the  bark  is  bitter,  not  unpleasant, 
exciting  the  flow  of  saliva  ; the  wood  is  tasteless. 

Constituents. — The  various  analyses  made  of  Gillenia  have  established  the  pres- 
ence of  starch,  tannin,  gum,  albumen,  fat,  resin,  etc.  The  bitter  principle,  gillenin,  not 
quite  pure  yet,  has  been  obtained  by  W.  B.  Stanhope  (1856)  in  the  form  of  a whitish 
powder  having  a slight  odor  and  a very  bitter  taste,  neutral  to  test-paper,  soluble  in 
water,  alcohol,  ether,  and  dilute  acids,  and  colored  blood-red  by  nitric  acid.  Its  watery 
solution  is  stated  to  be  precipitated  by  lead  subacetate,  tartar  emetic,  and  potassa,  but 
not  by  tannin  ; \ grain  caused  much  nausea.  It  was  prepared  by  washing  the  alcoholic 
extract  with  water,  treating  the  residue  with  very  dilute  sulphuric  acid,  adding  magnesia, 
evaporating  and  exhausting  the  dry  mass  with  alcohol. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  popular  title  of  “ American  ipecacuanha  ” sufficiently 
indicates  the  prominent  virtue  of  this  medicine.  It  is  a mild  emetic.  The  dose  is  Gm. 
1.30-2.00  (gr.  xx-xxx).  The  allied  species,  G.  stipulacea,  has  identical  qualities.  Its 
dust,  like  that  of  ipecacuanha,  irritates  the  nostrils,  throat,  and  larynx.  Gillenin,  when 
pure,  will  produce  nausea  and  vomiting  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.03-0.06  (gr.  ss-j).  Injected 
into  the  femoral  vein  of  a dog,  it  excited  vomiting. 

GLECHOMA. — Ground-Ivy. 

Herba  hederse  terrestris. — Lierre  terrestre , Fr.  ; Guilder mann,  Gundelrebe,  G. ; Hiedra 
terrestre , Sp. 

Glechoma  hederacea,  Linne , s.  Nepeta  Glechoma,  Bentham. 

Nat.  Ord. — Labiatse,  Nepeteae. 

Description. — Ground-ivy  is  a creeping  and  trailing  perennial  which  is  common  in 
Europe  and  naturalized  in  various  parts  of  North  America.  The  ascending  branches  are 
from  15-25  Cm.  (6  to  10  inches)  long,  quadrangular,  and  have  opposite  petiolate  leaves, 
which  are  25-38  Mm.  (1  or  II  inches)  long,  round-reniform,  deeply  crenate,  green,  and 
underneath  often  purplish.  The  blue  or  purplish  flowers  are  in  small  axillary  clusters, 
from  two  to  five  in  number.  The  plant  has  a slight  balsamic  odor  and  a bitter  somewhat 
acrid  taste. 

Constituents. — Like  other  plants  of  the  same  natural  order,  ground-ivy  contains 
volatile  oil,  resin,  fat,  gum,  sugar,  and  tannin  ; the  bitter  and  acrid  principle  has  not  been 
investigated. 

Action  and  Uses. — Ground-ivy  is  said  to  act  poisonously  upon  horses  and  sheep. 
It  has  been  chiefly  used  in  medicine  in  the  treatment  of  chronic  bronchitis , and  its  virtues 
in  this  affection  are  attested  by  medical  evidence  as  well  as  by  popular  faith.  It  was  at 
one  time  reputed  to  be  a cure  for  consumption,  by  which  was  meant  not  the  incurable 
disease  which  depends  upon  tuberculosis,  but  chronic  bronchitis  with  muco-purulent 


778 


GLYCERINTJM. 


sputa.  It  had  also  some  reputation  in  catarrhal  affections  of  the  urinary  organs  and  in 
atonic  dyspepsia.  Externally  the  bruised  herb  has  been  applied  in  poultices  or  alone  to 
indolent  ulcers.  An  infusion  may  be  made  with  Gm.  32  (§j)  of  the  herb  to  Gm.  500 
(Oj)  of  boiling  water  and  given  in  wineglassful  doses. 

GLYCERINUM,  V.  S.,  Br B.  G.— Glycerin. 

Glycerine U.  S.,  1870. — Glycerine , E. ; Glycerine , Fr. ; Glycerin , Oelsuss , G. 

Formula  C3H5(OH)3.  Molecular  weight  91.79. 

A liquid  sweet  principle  obtained  from  fat  and  fixed  oils,  and  containing  not  less  than 
95  per  cent,  of  absolute  glycerin. 

Origin. — Glycerin,  which  is  not  found  in  the  free  state  except  in  some  rancid  fats, 
exists  in  combination  with  the  so-called  fatty  acids,  forming  compound  ethers,  which 
constitute  most  of  the  animal  and  vegetable  solid  and  liquid  fats.  It  is  formed  in  small 
quantities  (about  3 per  cent,  of  the  glucose  present)  during  the  fermentation  of  sac- 
charine liquids.  Scheele,  who  discovered  it  in  1779,  called  it  sweet  principle  of  oils. 
In  the  United  States  it  was  first  manufactured  in  Philadelphia  by  Robert  Shoemaker  in 
1846 ; at  present  it  is  extensively  obtained  by  distillation  in  several  cities,  and  in  addi- 
tion over  6,000,000  pounds  are  now  annually  imported,  against  about  2,000,000  pounds 
in  1878. 

Preparation. — To  obtain  glycerin,  fat  must  be  decomposed  into  its  proximate  con- 
stituents, either  by  a caustic  alkali,  as  in  the  manufacture  of  soap,  or  by  lead  oxide, 
as  in  the  preparation  of  lead  plaster,  or  by  the  action  of  water  at  an  elevated  tempera- 
ture under  high  pressure.  The  latter  process,  which  was  patented  in  1854  by  R.  A. 
Tilghman,  yields  the  acids  of  the  fat  and  an  aqueous  solution  of  glycerin.  Water  which 
has  been  agitated  with  recently-prepared  lead  plaster  is  likewise  such  a solution,  and  the 
liquid  from  which  soap  has  been  separated  contains  glycerin,  saline  matters,  and  various 
organic  impurities,  which  may  be  removed  by  treatment  with  the  necessary  precipitants 
and  with  charcoal,  the  solutions  being  finally  evaporated  and  distilled  with  steam  under 
pressure.  By  fractional  condensation  most  of  the  glycerin  is  obtained  in  a nearly  anhy- 
drous state. 

Large  quantities  of  crude  glycerin  are  obtained  by  treating  fats  with  concentrated  sul- 
phuric acid,  adding  boiling  water,  and  afterward  removing  the  acid  by  means  of  barium 
or  calcium  carbonate  ; the  glycerin  remains  in  aqueous  solution,  is  always  highly  colored, 
and  constitutes  the  impurest  variety  of  crude  glycerin. 

The  best  results  in  the  manufacture  of  glycerin  are  those  obtained  by  what  is  known 
as  “ aqueous  saponification.”  This  process  consists  in  mixing  the  fats  with  certain  pro- 
portions of  water  in  closed  boilers  provided  with  stirrers,  and  then  treating  the  mixture 
with  superheated  steam  at  a pressure  of  15  atmospheres  (225  pounds);  the  temperature 
is  maintained  at  about  200°  G.  (392°  F.),  and  the  mixture  kept  in  constant  motion. 
This  treatment  decomposes  the  fat  into  glycerin  and  free  fatty  acids,  which  latter  float  on 
the  surface,  and  may  be  removed  mechanically,  while  the  glycerin  enters  into  solution  in 
the  water,  and  is  subsequently  purified  and  concentrated.  The  purest  glycerin  is  that 
obtained  by  distillation  of  the  concentrated  crude  product  in  specially  constructed  stills, 
where  the  liquid  is  first  heated  to  100°  or  110°  C.  to  remove  all  volatile  fatty  acids; 
when  the  distillate  ceases  to  show  an  acid  reaction  the  temperature  is  raised  to  170°  or 
180°  C.,  and  glycerin  will  distil  over  with  aqueous  vapor  into  a series  of  condensers. 
Repeated  distillations  may  be  necessary. 

Synthetic  or  artificial  glycerin  has  been  prepared  from  tribromopropane,  C3H5Br3,  and 
also  trichloropropane,  C3H5C13 ; the  former  compound  is  treated  with  silver  acetate,  and 
the  resulting  glyceryl  acetate  or  triacetin  is  decomposed  by  potassium  hydroxide,  yielding 
glycerin  and  potassium  acetate ; thus,  C3H5Br3  -f  3AgC2H302  = C3H5(C2H302)3  + 
3AgBr — C3H5  (C2H302)3  + 3KOH  = C3H5(OH)3  + 3KC2H302.  When  trichloropropane 
is  heated  with  water  to  180°  C.  it  also  yields  glycerin. 

In  subjecting  soap-liquors  to  dialysis  the  glycerin  passes  quite  freely  with  the  salts 
through  parchment-paper,  but  not  through  “ gutta-percha  paper,”  which  has  been  (1882) 
recommended  for  the  purification  of  such  impure  glycerin.  The  purification  of  glycerin 
by  distillation  was  patented  by  Wilson  and  Payne  in  1854. 

Properties. — Glycerin  is  a syrupy  liquid  having  the  specific  gravity  1.28  at  15°  C. 
(59°  F.)  (Pelouze).  The  following  table,  furnished  by  Dr.  A.  B.  Lyons  (1888)  shows  the 
percentage  of  absolute  glycerin  contained  in  aqueous  solutions  of  different  densities  at 
15°C.  (59°  F.)  ; the  figures  differ  but  slightly  in  the  third  and  fourth  decimal  places  from 


GLYCERINUM. 


779 


those  obtained  by  W. 

Lenz  (1880)  in 

determin 

ing 

the  carbon  in 

various 

dilutions  of 

glycerin. 

100  per  ct.,  1.26596  sp.  gr. 
95  “ 1.25285  “ 

75  per  ct.,  1.19857 

sp.  gr.  50  per.  ct.,  1.1 2990  sp.  gr. 

25  perct., 

, 1.06236  sp.  gr. 

70  “ 

1.18487 

“ 45 

it 

1.11618  “ 

20  “ 

1.04930  “ 

90  “ 1.23945  “ 

65  “ 

1.17113 

“ 40 

« 

1.10253  “ 

15  “ 

1.03652  “ 

85  “ 1.22583  “ 

60  “ 

1.15737 

“ 35 

a 

1.08908  “ 

10  “ 

1.02409  “ 

80  “ 1.21221  “ 

55  “ 

1.14362 

“ 30 

it 

1.07564  “ 

5 “ 

1.01189  “ 

The  pharmacopoeias  require  glycerin  to  have  the  density  1.250,  U S.  Br .,  1.225-1.235, 
P.  Gr.’,  which,  according  to  the  above  table,  corresponds  to  about  95  and  to  85-90  per 
cent,  of  absolute  glycerin.  It  is  transparent,  colorless,  inodorous,  very  sweet  and  some- 
what warm  to  the  taste,  owing  to  its  affinity  for  water,  oily  to  the  touch,  without  action 
upon  litmus,  and  soluble  in  all  proportions  in  water  and  alcohol ; also  in  spirit  of  ether,  but 
not  in  ether,  chloroform,  benzene,  fixed  oils,  or  volatile  oils.  Its  great  affinity  for  water 
has  been  long  known  ; W.  Willmott  (1879)  ascertained  that  this  continues  in  a moist 
atmosphere  until  about  twice  its  bulk  of  water  has  been  absorbed.  Heintz,  Berthelot 
(1854),  and  others  observed  that  at  about  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  glycerin  volatilizes  in 
appreciable  quantity,  more  readily,  it  seems,  with  the  vapors  of  water  ; in  a current  of 
superheated  steam  it  distils  readily  between  170°  and  200°  C (338°  and  392°  F.).  In 
contact  with  the  air  it  distils  only  partially  unchanged,  the  greater  portion  being 
destroyed,  with  the  production  «of  very  acrid  acrolein  among  the  empyreumatic  liquids. 
Its  boiling-point  is  290°  C.  (554°  F.).  When  anhydrous,  it  takes  fire  at  150°  C.  (302° 
F.)  and  burns  quietly  with  a blue  non-luminous  flame,  without  giving  off  any  disagree- 
able odor  and  without  leaving  any  residue.  It  dissolves  all  deliquescent  salts,  increases 
the  solubility  of  many  organic  and  inorganic  compounds  which  are  soluble  in  water  or 
alcohol,  and  prevents  the  precipitation  of  some  salts  by  alkalies  and  other  reagents.  By 
cooling  glycerin  to — 40°  C.  ( — 40°  F.)  Berthelot  could  obtain  it  only  as  a nearly  solid 
gummy  mass.  In  1867,  Crooks  saw  it  crystallized,  after  it  had  been  exposed  to  cold 
weather  while  being  transported,  and  Sarg  obtained  it  in  crystals  by  long-continued  expo- 
sure to  cold.  The  crystallization  takes  place  slowly,  but  is  greatly  promoted  even  between 
0°  and  5°  C.  (32  and  41°  F.)  by  the  addition  of  a solid  crystal  to  the  cold  glycerin.  This 
behavior  has  been  utilized  for  the  purification  of  glycerin.  The  crystals  are  very  deli- 
quescent and  melt  at  22°  C.  (71.6°  F.).  Glycerin  remains  unfrozen  at — 35°  C.  ( — 3i°  F.), 
and  even  if  it  contained  28  per  cent,  of  water  it  can  be  cooled  to — 31°  C.  ( — 23.8°  F.) 
without  freezing. 

Chemically,  glycerin  is  a triatomic  alcohol  and  known  as  propenyl  alcohol ; hence  chem- 
ists often  designate  it  glycerol , in  analogy  with  other  alcohols.  It  forms  with  acids  three 
series  of  ethers,  in  which  1,  2,  or  3 atoms  of  hydrogen  are  replaced  by  the  corresponding 
number  of  univalent  acidulous  radicals.  The  so-called  neutral  fats  are  saturated  ethers, 
like  tripalmitin , C3H5(C16H3102)3.  A similar  compound  is  nitroglycerin  or  glonoin , 
C3H5(N02)303  (which  see). 

When  1 part  of  glycerin  is  heated  with  2 parts  of  acid  potassium  sulphate,  2 molecules 
of  water  are  split  off  and  the  glycerin  is  converted  into  acrolein  or  allylaldehyde , thus, 
CA(OH), — 2H20=C3H40  ; the  same  effect  is  produced  when  glycerin  is  heated  with  an 
excess  of  phosphoric  anhydride,  or  even  rapidly  heated  by  itself  to  a temperature  of  about 
290°  C.  (554°  F.).  Acrolein  is  a light,  very  refractive,  and  volatile  oily  liquid,  the 
vapors  of  which  are  extremely  irritating  to  the  eyes 

Glycerin  dissolved  in  water  and  kept,  with  yeast,  at  a temperature  of  about  25°  C. 
(77°  F.),  is  converted  into  propionic  acid and  with  chalk  aud  old  cheese  at  40°  C.  (104° 
F.)  it  yields  alcohol  and  butyric  acid.  When  slightly  diluted  with  water  and  heated  to 
just  above  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  in  the  presence  of  oxalic  acid,  the  latter  will  be  decomposed 
into  carbon  dioxide  and  formic  acids.  C2H204  yields  C02  + CH202 ; the  formic  acid  tnay  be 
afterward  obtained  by  repeatedly  diluting  with  water  and  distilling.  Glycerin  unites  with 
the  alkalies  and  alkaline  earths  to  compounds  soluble  in  water,  the  former  also  in  alcohol ; 
the  latter  are  not  precipitated  by  carbonic  acid.  It  unites  also  with  sulphuric  and  other 
acids.  “If  a fused  bead  of  borax  on  a loop  of  platinum  wire  be  moistened  with  glycerin 
and  then  held  in  a colorless  flame,  the  latter  will  be  transiently  tinted  deep-green.” — U. 

This  behavior  was  observed  by  lies  (1877),  and  recommended  as  a test  for  borates 
or  for  glycerin,  but  Klein  (1878)  showed  that  the  reaction  with  borax  takes  place  not  only 
with  glycerin,  but  with  other  polyhydric  alcohols;  and  the  conditions  for  these  reactions 
have  been  elaborately  investigated  by  Dunstan  (1883),  proving  that  sodium  pyroborate 
is  decomposed,  with  the  formation  of  sodium  metaborate  and  a boric  ether,  or,  if  water  be 
present,  free  boric  acid,  the  alcohol  being  regenerated. 


780 


OLYGER1NVM. 


Tests. — Glycerin  is  now  rarely  adulterated,  but  much  being  prepared  for  uses  in  the 
arts,  where  purity  is  not  necessary,  impure  glycerin  may  at  all  times  be  met  with  in  the 
market.  Water,  mucilage,  dextrin,  glucose,  and  perhaps  cane-sugar  syrup,  would  be  used 
as  adulterants.  The  first  is  detected  by  the  specific  gravity  of  the  sample,  the  others  by 
the  brown  color  produced  on  mixing  the  sample  with  twice  its  bulk  of  concentrated  sul- 
phuric acid.  Since  cane-sugar  syrup  which  has  been  exposed  to  the  light  for  some  time 
contains  appreciable  quantities  of  glucose,  glycerin  adulterated  with  either  kind  of  sugar 
will  become  brown  on  being  heated  with  solution  of  potassa  or  soda,  and  will  yield  a red 
precipitate  when  heated  to  boiling  with  a drop  of  solution  of  copper  sulphate  and  an 
excess  of  potassa.  The  impurities  may  consist  of  saline  matters  should  the  glycerin 
have  not  been  distilled,  or  of  odorous  compounds  if  insufficiently  purified  by  distillation. 
The  odor  becomes  apparent  on  warming  the  glycerin  or  rubbing  it  well  upon  the  hand. 
Most  of  these  compounds  reduce  nitrate  of  silver,  and  produce  a more  or  less  deep  color 
when  glycerin  is  diluted  with  a little  distilled  water  and  after  the  addition  of  a few  drops 
of  nitrate  of  silver  heated  to  boiling.  The  same  reagent  will  detect  chlorides  by  the 
white  precipitate  produced.  Diluted  glycerin  should  not  be  colored  or  rendered  turbid  on 
being  tested  with  hydrogen  sulphide  or  ammonium  sulphide  (metallic  salts),  ammonium 
oxalate  (calcium),  or  barium  chloride  (sulphuric  or  oxalic  acid).  The  presence 
of  butyric  acid  is  readily  determined  by  warming  a mixture  of  glycerin  with  one- 
fourth  its  measure  each  of  alcohol  and  sulphuric  acid,  when  butyric  ether,  recognized  by 
its  odor  of  pineapple,  will  be  given  off.  The  most  important  tests  for  practical  purposes 
are  those  with  sulphuric  acid  and  silver  nitrate.  Goddefroy  (1874)  recommended  the 
heating  of  glycerin  in  an  open  crucible  to  boiling,  and  then  igniting  it,  when  it  should 
burn  without  diffusing  the  least  smell  or  leaving  the  least  residue.  From  these  reactions 
the  following  tests  have  been  formulated : “ Glycerin  should  be  neutral  to  litmus-paper. 
Upon  warming  a portion  of  5 or  6 Gm.  with  half  its  weight  of  diluted  sulphuric  acid  no 
butyric  or  other  acidulous  odor  should  be  developed.  A portion  of  2 or  3 Gm..  gently 
warmed  with  an  equal  volume  of  sulphuric  acid  in  a test-tube,  should  not  become  dark 
colored  (absence  of  cane-sugar).  A portion  of  about  2 Gm.,  heated  in  a small  open  por- 
celain or  platinum  capsule  upon  a sand-bath  until  it  boils,  and  then  ignited,  should  burn 
and  vaporize,  so  as  to  leave  not  more  than  a dark  stain  (absence  of  sugars  and  dextrin, 
which  leave  a porous  coal).  A portion  heated  to  about  85°  C.  (185°  F.)  with  test  solu- 
tion of  potassio-cupric  tartrate  should  not  give  a decided  yellowish-brown  precipitate,  and 
the  same  result  should  be  obtained  if,  before  applying  this  test,  another  portion  be  boiled 
with  a little  diluted  hydrochloric  acid  for  half  an  hour  (absence  of  sugars).  After  full 
combustion  no  residue  should  be  left  (metallic  salts).  Diluted  with  ten  times  its  volume 
of  distilled  water,  portions  should  give  no  precipitates  or  colors  when  treated  with  test 
solutions  of  silver  nitrate,  barium  chloride,  calcium  chloride,  ammonium  sulphide  or 
ammonium  oxalate,  (acrylic,  hydrochloric,  sulphuric,  or  oxalic  acids,  iron,  and  calcium 
salts.)  If  a mixture  of  2 Cc.  of  glycerin  with  10  Cc.  of  water,  contained  in  a 
perfectly  clean,  glass-stoppered  cylinder,  be  heated  for  five  minutes  in  a water-bath  at  a 
temperature  of  60°— 65°  C.  (140°-149°  F.),  then  mixed  with  10  drops  of  silver  nitrate 
test-solution,  and  the  cylinder  set  aside,  well  stoppered,  in  diffused  daylight,  no  change  of 
transparency  or  color  should  occur  in  the  mixture  within  five  minutes  (absence  of  chlo- 
rides, and  limit  of  impurities  having  reducing  properties.).” — U.  S.  1 Cc.  of  glycerin  mixed 
with  3 Cc.  of  stannous  chloride  solution  should  not  become  colored  within  one  hour 
(absence  of  arsenic). — P.  G. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Glycerin  forms  the  base  of  the  official  glycerita  (glyce- 
rin a)  and  glycerin  suppositories,  and  is  a constituent  of  a number  of  official  fluid 
extracts  ; also  of  Linimentum  potassii  iodidi  cum  sapone,  Br .,  and  of  Mucilago  traga- 
canthse,  U.  S.  It  is  used  for  preserving  pill-masses  and  certain  extracts  in  a plastic  con- 
dition, and  for  preventing  fermentation  and  other  changes  in  aqueous  liquids  containing 
organic  matter  in  solution. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  purest  glycerin  is  irritating,  on  account  of  the  avidity 
with  which  it  abstracts  moisture  from  the  tissues,  but  commercial  glycerin  has  some- 
times a similar  defect  from  containing  nitric,  sulphuric,  or  organic  acids  and  other 
impurities.  It  is  alleged  that  glycerin  mixed  with  the  food  of  animals  tends  to  fatten 
them,  while  it  diminishes  the  proportion  of  urea  excreted.  Catillon  has  shown  that  it 
sometimes  augments  and  sometimes  diminishes  this  excretion  (Bull,  et  Mem.,  etc.,  1883, 
p.  133),  but  that,  on  the  whole,  the  latter  action  prevails,  and  that  during  the  use  of  the 
medicine  the  weight  of  the  body  increases.  On  the  other  hand  the  careful  experiments 
of  Munk  led  him  to  the  conclusion  that  glycerin  is  not  in  the  least  degree  nutritious 


GLYCERTNUM. 


781 


( Virchow’s  Archiv,  lxxvi.  119).  If  given  in  larger  doses  than  can  be  digested,  it  may  be 
detected  in  the  urine,  but  it  cannot  be  recognized  in  the  faeces  (?)  or  the  sweat.  In 
excessive  doses  (such  as  f^ss  for  every  21  pounds  of  the  animal’s  weight)  its  effects 
resembles  those  of  alcoholic  poisoning,  including  the  gastric  lesions  found  after  death. 
Injected  hypodermically,  the  same  symptoms  and  lesions  are  produced.  Similarly 
administered  to  frogs  or  injected  into  the  veins  of  rabbits,  it  induces  tetanic  rigidity 
(Archives  of  Medicine , Oct.  1881). 

Its  richness  in  carbon  suggested  its  use  as  a medicinal  food,  and  especially  as  a substi- 
tute for  cod-liver  oil  in  phthisis,  but,  as  in  so  many  other  instances,  a little  clinical 
experience  showed  the  so-called  scientific  induction  to  be  untrue.  On  theoretical  grounds 
also  it  has  been  employed  in  the  treatment  of  diabetes , but  without  striking  advantage, 
although  when  the  amount  of  sugar  excreted  is  very  small  the  use  of  glycerin  may  cause 
it  to  disappear  from  the  urine,  at  least  in  its  usual  form.  It  may  be  used  in  this  disease 
as  a substitute  for  sugar,  and  has  been  thought  to  retard  emaciation.  (Compare  Ransom, 
Journal  of  Physiology , viii.  No.  2.)  Prof.  Semmola  of  Naples,  inveighing  against  both 
the  stimulant  and  the  antipyretic  treatment  of  typhoid  fever,  urgently  advises  in  their 
stead  the  repeated  administration  of  small  doses  of  glycerin  in  water  acidulated  with 
citric  or  tartaric  acid  (Bull,  de  Therap.,  civ.  481),  apparently  not  perceiving  that  this 
method  is  essentially  an  expectant  treatment.  Glycerin  is  an  eligible  adjunct  to  castor 
oil.  It  is  said  that  a teaspoonful  of  both  mixed  together  will  act  as  a laxative.  In  1887 
a proprietary  medicine  for  constipation  was  found  to  consist  chiefly  of  glycerin  (Amer. 
Jour,  of  Med.  Sci.,  -Aug.  1888,  p.  175).  Numberless  clinical  observations  have  been 
made  leading  to  substantially  identical  conclusions.  These  have  been  distinctly  formu- 
lated by  Ullmann  (Centralbl.  f Ther.,  v.  449),  and  by  Poliibinsky  (Med.  News,  liv.  463). 
The  most  important  of  them  are  these : Glycerin  enemas  or  suppositories  are  more 
efficient  in  habitual  than  in  occasional  constipation,  and  when  the  faecal  mass  is  in  the 
rectum  rather  than  at  the  sigmoid  flexure  or  above  it.  It  is  more  generally  applicable 
to  females  than  to  males.  It  rarely  gives  rise  to  pain  in  the  abdomen  or  burning  in  the 
healthy  rectum,  but  it  aggravates  lesions  of  this  and  the  adjacent  parts.  The  enema 
generally  acts  in  from  five  to  ten  minutes,  causing  a semiliquid  or  hard  stool.  The 
quantity  which  has  been  generally  administered  in  this  manner  has  been  from  n^.SO  to 
n^60.  It  may  be  given  with  a syringe  or  in  hollow  suppositories  of  cocoa  butter.  A 
pledget  of  cotton  saturated  with  glycerin  has  been  found  equally  efficient.  If  a syringe 
is  used,  its  contents  may  be  injected  through  a slender  catheter  passed,  if  possible, 
between  the  faecal  mass  and  the  rectum.  Similar  enemas  have  been  found  efficient  in 
destroying  rectal  ascarides.  Its  medicinal  virtues  depend  mainly  upon  its  having  no 
tendency  to  evaporate  and  to  its  undergoing  no  change  by  exposure  to  the  air.  Hence 
it  may  be  advantageously  used  where  oil  has  from  time  immemorial  been  employed,  and, 
owing  to  its  solubility  in  water,  with  more  effect.  Thus  it  has  been  applied  with  good 
results  to  the  rectum  in  dysentery , to  the  pharynx,  to  the  larynx,  trachea,  and  bronchia 
(by  atomization  and  vaporization)  in  various  diseases  of  these  parts  exciting  cough  and 
spasm  or  causing  their  obstruction.  The  vapor  given  off  by  glycerin  heated  to  the 
boiling-point  of  water  is  very  perceptible,  and  at  266°  F.  is  very  abundant,  almost  odor- 
less, and  of  a sweetish  taste.  In  a woman  suffering  from  haemorrhoids  it  was  observed 
that  while  she  was  taking  glycerin  for  diabetes  she  obtained  great  relief  from  the  haemor- 
rhoidal  affection.  In  other  cases  a complete  cure  of  the  rectal  disease  was  accomplished 
by  the  continued  use  of  glycerin  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  8-12  (2  or  4 drachms),  taken 
morning  and  evening  (Young).  Several  subsequent  reports  are  equally  favorable  to  the 
efficiency  of  this  treatment,  which  is  applicable  to  both  blind  and  bleeding  piles. 
Possibly  the  slight  digestibility  of  the  glycerin  permits  it  to  reach  the  rectum  and  act 
as  an  emollient  and  protective.  Mixed  with  water  or  pure,  according  to  circumstances, 
it  forms  the  best  solvent  for  hardened  cerumen  and  concreted  epithelial  scales,  and  is 
much  used  for  keeping  the  tympanum  moist.  It  has  been  applied  to  the  treatment  of 
recent  wounds,  but  with  far  less  satisfactory  results  than  are  obtained  by  dry  dressings 
that  exclude  the  air.  When  these  cannot  be  employed,  glycerin  may  be  profitably  sub- 
stituted. Its  affinity  for  moisture  tends  in  certain  cases  to  limit  the  secretion  of  pus  by 
drying  and  constringing  the  secreting  surface.  This  is  strikingly  the  case  in  leucorrhoea. 
The  addition  of  an  astringent — tannic  acid,  for  example — increases  the  efficiency  of  the 
glycerin,  which  should  be  applied  upon  a tampon  of  charpie.  A similar  application  may 
be  used  for  fssure  of  the  anus  and  for  fissured  nipples.  For  the  latter,  however,  a mix- 
ture of  compound  tincture  of  benzoin  and  glycerin  is  preferable.  Fissured  tongue  is 
curable  by  a solution  of  40  grains  of  borax  in  about  an  ounce  of  glycerin  and  4 ounces 


782 


GLYCERITA.—  GL YCER1TUM  ACIDI  GALLICI. 


of  water.  Absorbent  cotton,  squeezed  out  of  hot  water  and  then  saturated  with  glycerin, 
has  been  strongly  recommended  by  Gordon  as  an  efficient  dressing  for  wounds , under 
which  they  heal  by  the  first  intention  ( Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour .,  Dec.  1885,  p.  642). 
Later  on,  Fleming  ( British  Med.  Jour.,  Sept.  22,  1888)  used  in  the  same  manner  a 
mixture  of  glycerin  and  starch,  which  prevents  adhesion  of  the  dressings  and  allows  the 
free  discharge  of  the  secretions  of  the  part.  Pure  glycerin  applied  to  carbuncles,  boils. 
and  abscesses  is  said  to  promote  their  cure,  but  it  is  unsuited  for  application  over  a large 
surface,  owing  to  its  affinity  for  the  moisture  of  the  air.  This  affinity  for  moisture 
renders  glycerin  available  for  reducing  oedema  of  the  prepuce  and  similar  parts.  It 
should  be  applied  on  absorbent  cotton  or  charpie.  Also  to  lessen  catarrhal  secretion,  as 
in  coryza , pharyngitis , otarrhoea,  etc.  It  allays  itching  in  most  affections  of  the  skin 
attended  with  this  symptom,  and  hence  it  is  an  appropriate  ingredient  of  ointments  and 
washes  used  in  their  treatment.  To  prevent  the  laryngeal  mirror  from  becoming  obscured 
by  the  condensation  of  vapor  upon  its  surface,  it  has  been  recommended  to  pass  lightly 
over  it  a cloth  wet  with  glycerin.  Dryness  of  the  mouth  from  fever  or  any  other  cause 
may  be  lessened  by  a mixture  of  glycerin  and  water  far  better  than  by  water  alone. 

The  solvent  powers  of  glycerin  have  suggested  the  glycerites  as  officinal  forms  of 
certain  medicines,  but  many  others  are  prescribed  extemporaneously.  One  part  of  alum 
dissolved  in  5 parts  of  glycerin  by  means  of  gentle  heat  is  a powerful  local  astringent. 
Diluted,  it  can  be  used  as  a gargle,  injection,  or  lotion.  A solution  of  iodide  of  potas- 
sium in  2 parts  of  glycerin,  with  the  addition  of  1 part  of  iodine,  makes  an  almost 
caustic  preparation.  A solution  of  1 part  of  iodine  in  5 parts  of  glycerin  is  used  as  a 
resolvent  of  enlarged  and  indurated  glands,  and  as  a revulsive  over  inflamed  joints, 
abscesses,  etc.  1 part  of  glycerin  and  8 parts  of  sulphate  of  zinc  forms  an  energetic 
caustic.  Vaccine  lymph  may  be  preserved  from  decomposition  by  mixing  it  with 
glycerin. 


GLYCERITA,  U.  S.— GLYCERITES,  GLYCERINA, 

Hr. — Glycerines. 

Glycerata , Glycerolata. — Glycerols , E.  ; Glyceres,  Glycerats , Glyceroles , Fr. ; Glycente , 
Glycerolate , G. 

This  class  of  preparations  consists  mostly  of  solutions  of  1 part  of  a chemical  com- 
pound in  4 or  5 parts  by  weight  of  undiluted  glycerin,  which  are  readily  made  by  tritur- 
ation in  the  mortar.  Two  of  the  official  glycerites  require  different  manipulations, 
which  will  be  noticed  in  the  proper  place.  These  preparations  were  suggested  in  1854  by 
Cap  and  Garot,  and  soon  after  became  favorably  known  and  have  become  much  used. 

GLYCERITUM  ACIDI  CARBOLICI,  U.  S.— Glycerite  of  Carbolic 

Acid. 

Glycerinum  acidi  carbolic/,  Br. ; Glycerin  of  carbolic  acid , E. ; Glycere  d ’ acxde 
phenique,  Glycerine  pheniquee,  Fr.  ; Phenol-  ( Plxenyl -)  Glycerit,  G. 

Preparation. — Carbolic  Acid,  20  Gm.  ; Glycerin,  80  Gm. ; to  make  100  Gm.  Weigh 
the  carbolic  acid  and  glycerin,  successively,  into  a tared  capsule,  and  stir  them  together 
until  the  acid  is  dissolved. — U.  S.  (480  grains  of  carbolic  acid  may  be  dissolved  in  2 t 
fluidrachms  of  glycerin.) 

Take  of  Carbolic  Acid  1 ounce ; Glycerin  4 fluidounces.  Rub  them  together  in  a 
mortar  until  the  acid  is  dissolved. — Br. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  is  a convenient  form  of  application  of  carbolic  acid  in 
certain  eruptions  of  the  skin , such  as  scabies,  prurigo,  etc.,  in  which  the  itching  is 
tormenting. 

GLYCERITUM  ACIDI  GALLICI.— Glycerite  of  Gallic  Acid. 

Glycerinum  acidi  gattici,  Br. — Glycerin  of  gallic  acid,  E. ; Glycerl  d'acide  galhque,  Fr.  : 
Gallussdure-  Glycerit,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Gallic  Acid  1 ounce ; Glycerin  4 fluidounces.  Rub  them 
together  in  a mortar  ; then  transfer  the  mixture  to  a porcelaiu  dish  and  apply  a gentle 
heat  until  complete  solution  is  effected, — Br, 


GLYCEBITUM  ACIDI  TANNICI. — GL YCERITUM  AMYLI. 


783 


Action  and  Uses. — This  preparation,  taken  internally,  has  the  advantage  over 
gallic  acid  in  substance  of  being  more  readily  absorbable.  The  dose  is  Gm.  1.30-4.0 
(rrpxx-lx). 

GLYCERITUM  ACIDI  TANNICI,  U.  S.— Glycerite  of  Tannic  Acid. 

Glycerinum  acidi  tannici , Br.  ; Glycerin  of  tannic  acid  (of  tannin ),  E.  ; Glycere  de  tan- 
nin, Glycerin  tannique , Fr. ; Tannin-  Glycerit,  G. 

Preparation. — Tannic  Acid,  20  Gui.  ; Glycerin,  80  Gm  ; to  make  100  Gm.  Weigh 
the  tannic  acid  and  glycerin,  successively,  into  a tared  porcelain  capsule,  avoiding  con- 
tact with  metallic  utensils,  and  apply  the  heat  of  a water-bath,  until  the  acid  is  com- 
pletely dissolved. — U.  S.  (480  grains  of  tannic  acid  may  be  dissolved  in  27  fluidrachms 
of  glycerin.) 

Take  of  Tannic  Acid  1 ounce ; Glycerin  4 fluidounces.  Rub  them  together  in  a 
mortar  ; then  transfer  the  mixture  to  a porcelain  dish  and  apply  a gentle  heat  until 
complete  solution  is  effected. — Br. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  glycerite  is  not  so  often  used  internally  as  that  of  gallic 
acid,  but  as  a local  application  to  suppurating  surfaces  of  limited  extent  is  more  efficient 
— e.  g.  to  the  nostrils  in  chronic  coryza  and  ozaena , to  the  ear  in  chronic  catarrh,  to  the 
throat  in  chronic  relaxation  of  the  mucous  membrane,  etc.  It  is  a useful  dressing  for 
certain  chronic  but  irritable  cutaneous  eruptions,  such  as  eczema , impetigo , intertrigo , etc. 
Dose , Gm.  1-4  (gr.  xv-lx). 

GLYCERITUM  ALUMINIS.— Glycerite  of  Alum. 

Glycerinum  Aluminis , Br. — Glycerin  of  alum , E. ; Glycere  d'alun , Fr.  ; Alaun- 
Glycerit,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Alum  1 ounce  ; Glycerin  5 fluidounces.  Stir  them  together 
in  a porcelain  dish,  gently  applying  heat  until  solution  is  effected.  Set  aside,  and  pour 
off  the  clear  fluid  from  any  deposited  matter. — Br. 

Action  and  Uses. — Like  all  solutions  of  astringents  in  glycerin,  this  one  is  of  infe- 
rior value  to  that  of  a watery  solution  of  alum.  It  is,  however,  used,  like  other  astrin- 
gent glycerins,  to  check  mucous  secretions  and  slight  passive  haemorrhages,  to  constringe 
soft  granulations,  relaxed  membranes,  etc. 

GLYCERITUM  AMYLI,  U.  S.— Glycerite  of  Starch. 

Glycerinum  amyli , Br. ; Unguentum  glycerini , P.  G. — Glycerin  of  starch , Glycamyl , 
Plasma,  E.  ; Glycere  d'amidon,  Glycerat  simple  ( d'amidon ),  Fr.  ; Starke- Glycerit,  G. 

Preparation. — Starch,  10  Gm. ; Water,  10  Cc.  ; Glycerin,  80  Gm.  To  the  starch, 
contained  in  a porcelain  capsule  add  the  water  and  glycerin,  and  stir  until  a homogeneous 
mixture  is  produced.  Then  apply  a heat  gradually  raised  to  140°  C.  (284°  F.)  and  not 
exceeding  144°  C.  (291°  F.),  stirring  constantly  until  the  starch-granules  are  completely 
dissolved  and  a translucent  jelly  is  formed. — V.  S. 

Starch,  1 ounce ; glycerin,  5 fluidounces  ; distilled  water,  3 fluidounces.  Stir  and 
heat. — Br.  Starch,  1 part;  glycerin,  14  parts.  Heat  carefully. — F.  Cod. 

This  preparation  was  introduced  into  British  pharmacy  by  G.  F.  Schacht  in  1858,  and 
soon  after  became  known  in  the  United  States.  To  obtain  a uniform  jelly-like  mass,  the 
starch  should  be  first  rubbed  into  a fine  powder  free  from  lumps,  then  intimately  mixed 
with  the  glycerin  and  water,  which  may  be  done  in  the  porcelain  capsule,  thus  avoiding 
the  unavoidable  loss  when  done  in  a mortar ; and  finally  the  mixture  is  heated  until  all 
starch-granules  are  ruptured  and  the  liquid  is  thickened  to  a translucent  mass  free  from 
white  spots.  Prepared  in  this  manner,  the  glycerite  must  be  preserved  in  well-stoppered 
bottles,  for  in  contact  with  the  air  it  attracts  moisture  and  gradually  becomes  soft.  This 
tendency  is  entirely  removed,  according  to  W.  Willmott  (1879),  by  substituting  for  one- 
third  of  the  glycerin  an  equal  measure  of  water. 

For  the  same  purpose  T.  B.  Groves  (1867)  introduced  a preparation  under  the  name 
of  glycelceum,  which,  besides  glycerin,  contains  fixed  oil ; it  is  made  by  triturating  \ ounce 
of  fine  almond  meal  with  1 ounce  of  glycerin,  and  then  incorporating  with  it  3 ounces  of 
olive  oil,  gradually  added.  The  oil  may  wholly  or  in  part  be  replaced  by  volatile  oil  or 
oleoresins.  The  preparation  is  a soft  semi-gelatinous  paste,  which  admits  of  the  further 
addition  of  powders,  and  when  mixed  gradually  with  water  forms  readily  an  emulsion, 


784 


GLYCERITUM  BELLADONNJE. — GL  YCERITUM  BOROGL  YCERINI. 


Zulkowsky  (1880)  has  shown  that  on  heating  starch  to  130°  C.  (266°  F.)  the  starch- 
granules  are  ruptured  and  the  mixture  becomes  thick  and  translucent,  and  at  a higher 
temperature  again  thinner;  at  170°  C.  (339°  F.)  it  is  quite  limpid,  and  at  190°  C.  (374° 
F.)  the  starch  is  converted  into  the  soluble  modification — quite  readily  if  potato  starch 
had  been  used,  but  more  slowly  with  wheat  or  rice  starch.  If  now  cooled,  the  mixture 
becomes  thicker,  but  not  gelatinous ; on  being  poured  into  water  the  insoluble  starch  will 
precipitate,  and  the  soluble  starch  may  afterward  be  thrown  down  on  the  addition  of 
alcohol. 

The  corresponding  preparation  of  the  German  Pharmacopoeia  contains  tragacanth  in 
addition  to  starch,  and  is  made  by  triturating  10  parts  of  wheat  starch  with  15  parts  of 
water  and  100  parts  of  glycerin,  adding  2 parts  of  powdered  tragacanth  and  5 parts  of 
alcohol  and  heating  in  a stpam-bath  until  the  odor  of  alcohol  has  disappeared  and  a trans- 
lucent jelly-like  mass  results. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  preparation  forms  a transparent,  unchangeable,  and 
unirritating  compound.  It  has  been  much  used  in  ophthalmic  surgery,  especially  when 
medicinal  agents  were  to  be  applied  to  the  conjunctiva.  Ordinary  ointments  are  still  to 
be  preferred  in  affections  of  the  eyelids.  It  answers  the  purpose  of  a light  poultice  in 
burns , erythema , erysipelas , furuncle , intertrigo , and  various  other  local  inflammations  of 
the  skin. 

GLYCERITUM  BELLADONNAS. — Glycerite  of  Belladonna. 

Glycerin um  belladonnse,  Br.  Ph.  Conf. — Glycerin  of  Belladonna , E. ; Belladonna- 
Glycent,  G. 

Preparation. — Bub  1 ounce  of  Extract  of  Belladonna  into  a smooth  paste  with  1 
fluidrachm  of  boiling  Distilled  Water,  and  add  enough  Glycerin  to  produce  2 fluid- 
ounces.  (The  extract  of  belladonna  prescribed  is  the  inspissated  juice  prepared  according 
to  the  British  Pharmacopoeia.) 

Glyc£r£  d’extrait  de  belladone,  F.  Cod.  Soften  extract  of  belladonna  1 part 
with  a little  glycerin,  and  mix  with  glycerite  of  starch  9 parts.  Other  narcotic  extracts 
are  used  in  the  same  proportion. 

GLYCERITUM  BOR  A CIS.— Glycerite  of  Borax. 

Glycerinum  boracis , Br. — Glycerin  of  borax , E.  ; Glycere  de  borax,  Fr. ; Borax- 
Glycerit , G. 

Preparation. — Rub  together  Borax,  in  powder,  1 ounce,  Glycerin  4 fluidounces, 
and  Distilled  Water  2 fluidounces,  until  the  Borax  is  dissolved  ; or  heat  gently  until  solu- 
tion is  effected. — Br. 

From  the  investigations  of  W.  B.  Dunstan,  it  appears  that  this  preparation  will  contain 
some  free  boric  acid. 

Action  and  Uses. — In  this  preparation  the  glycerin  forms  a convenient  but  imper- 
fect substitute  for  the  honey  usually  employed  along  with  borax  in  aphthous  and  other 
ulcerative  affections  of  the  mouth , nipples , vulva . etc.,  but  is  probably  less  efficient.  It 
is  more  suitable  for  pityriasis  of  the  scalp. 

GLYCERITUM  BOROGL  YCERINI,  U.  Glycerite  of  Boro- 

glycerin. 

Glycerite  of  glyceryl  borate , Solution  of  boroglyceride , E, ; Liqueur  ( Solute ) de  boro- 
glyceride,  Fr. ; Boroglyceridlosung,  G. 

Preparation. — Boric  acid,  in  powder,  310  Gm. ; Glycerin,  a sufficient  quantity,  to 
make  1000  Gm.  Heat  460  Gm.  of  glycerin  in  a tared  porcelain  capsule  to  a temperature 
not  exceeding  150°  C.  (302°  F.),  and  add  the  boric  acid  in  portions,  constantly  stirring. 
When  all  is  added  and  dissolved,  continue  the  heat  at  the  same  temperature,  frequently 
stirring  and  breaking  up  the  film  which  forms  on  the  surface.  When  the  mixture  has 
been  reduced  to  the  weight  of  500  Gm.,  add  to  it  500  Gm.  of  glycerin,  mix  thoroughly, 
and  transfer  it  to  suitable  vessels. — U.  S. 

1 pint  of  this  solution,  containing  50  per  cent,  by  weight  of  boroglycerin,  weighs  about 
23  av.  ozs.  (22.7544),  and  hence  may  be  prepared  by  heating  4600  grains  of  glycerin 
with  3100  grains  of  boric  acid  at  the  above-mentioned  temperature  until  the  mixture 
weighs  5000  grains,  and  then  adding  an  equal  weight  of  glycerin.  (10,000  grains  = 22.85 


GLYCERITUM  HYDRASTIS.— GLYCER1TUM  TRA GA CA NTHJE. 


785 


av.  ozs.)  When  glycerin  and  boric  acid  are  heated  together  for  some  time,  chemical 
union  takes  place,  with  the  elimination  of  aqueous  vapor,  and,  according  to  Dr.  James,  the 
reaction  may  be  illustrated  as  follows : C3H5(OH)3  (glycerin)  -(-  H3B03  (boric  acid)  = 
C3H5B03  (boroglycerin)  -f-  3H.,0  (water).  Care  must  be  observed  not  to  exceed  the  pre- 
scribed temperature,  lest  the  product  become  discolored  (yellowish  or  even  darker). 
Attention  was  first  called  to  boro<rlyceride  and  its  remarkable  preservative  properties  by 
F.  S.  Barff  in  1881. 

GLYCERITUM  HYDRASTIS,  U.  $. — Glycerite  of  Hydrastis. 

Glycere  d' hydrastis  du  Canada , Fr.  ; Gilbwurzel-  Glycerit , G. 

Preparation. — Hydrastis,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Glycerin,  500  Cc. ; Alcohol, 
Water,  each  a sufficient  quantity,  to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  hydrastis  with  350  Cc. 
of  alcohol,  pack  it  firmly  in  a percolator,  and  percolate  with  alcohol  until  the  hydrastis 
is  practically  exhausted.  To  the  percolate  add  250  Cc.  of  water,  and  then  remove  the 
alcohol  by  evaporation  or  distillation.  After  the  alcohol  is  driven  off,  add  enough  water 
to  the  residue  to  make  it  measure  500  Cc.,  and  set  it  aside  for  twenty-four  hours.  Then 
filter,  pass  enough  water  through  the  filter  to  make  the  filtrate  measure  500  Cc.,  add 
the  glycerin,  and  mix  thoroughly. 

25  av.  ozs.  of  hydrastis  should  be  moistened  with  about  9 fluidounces  of  alcohol,  and 
percolated  to  exhaustion  with  the  same  menstruum  ; after  addition  of  6 fluidounces  of 
water  to  the  percolate,  the  alcohol  is  distilled  off"  and  enough  water  added  to  bring  the 
volume  up  to  12  fluidounces.  The  mixture  should  be  filtered  after  twenty-four  hours, 
the  filter  washed  with  enough  water  to  restore  the  volume  to  12  fluidounces ; finally  12 
fluidounces  of  glycerin  are  added  and  the  whole  thoroughly  mixed. 

The  filtration  of  the  aqueous  mixture  is  by  no  means  as  simple  as  it  appears,  and  we 
would  suggest  the  addition  of  i av.  oz.  of  calcium  phosphate  and  some  paper  pulp  or 
finely  shredded  filtering-paper. 

GLYCERITUM  PLUMBI  SUBACETATIS.— Glycerite  of  Lead 

Subacetate. 

Glycerinum  plumbi  svbacetafis,  Br. — Glycerin  of  lead  subacetate , E. ; Glycere  de  sous- 
acetate  de  plomb,  Fr. ; Bleiglycerit , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Lead  Acetate  5 ounces  ; Lead  Oxide,  in  powder,  3?  ounces; 
Glycerin  20  fluidounces;  Distilled  Water,  12  fluidounces.  Mix  together  and  boil  for 
fifteen  minutes  ; then  filter  and  evaporate  until  the  water  is  dissipated. — Br. 

Action  and  Uses. — It  is  said  to  be  preferable  to  the  simple  solution  of  subacetate 
of  lead  in  that  it  does  not  form  a dry  crust  when  it  is  applied  to  ulcers , eczema , etc. 

GLYCERITUM  SAPONIS.— Glycerite  of  Soap. 

Glycerinum  saponatum. — Glycere  de  savon , Fr. ; Seifen-  Glycerit,  G. 

Preparation. — Dissolve  1 part  of  perfectly  neutral  cocoanut  oil-soda  soap  or  tallow- 
soda  soap,  dried  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.),  in  four  parts  of  glycerin,  sp.  gr.  1.250,  by  means 
of  a water-bath,  and  filter  the  solution  while  hot ; after  cooling  it  forms  a pale-yellow, 
odorless,  elastic  mass,  melting  at  the  temperature  of  the  body,  and  completely  soluble  in 
water.  It  is  hygroscopic. 

Action  and  Uses. — Glycerite  of  soap  has  been  recommended  by  Dr.  Hebra  as  a 
new  base  for  ointments,  and  may  be  medicated  as  desired.  (See  Proc.  A.  P.  A.,  1891.) 

GLYCERITUM  TR  AG  ACANTHI. —Glycerite  of  Tragacanth. 

Glycerinum  tragacanthse , Br. — Glycerin  of  tragacanth , E.  ; Glycere  de  aomme  adra- 
yante,  Fr.  ; Traganth-  Glycerit,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Tragacanth,  in  powder,  110  grains;  Glycerin  1 fluidounce  ; 

istilled  Mater  74  fluidgrains.  Mix  the  tragacanth  with  the  glycerin  in  a mortar,  add 
the  water,  and  rub  until  a translucent,  homogenous  jelly  is  produced. — Br. 

This  preparation  is  useful  as  an  excipient  for  many  pill-masses. 

50 


786 


GLYCERITUM  VITELLI. — GLYCYRRHIZA . 


GLYCERITUM  VITELLI,  77.  S.— Glycerite  op  Yolk  of  Egg. 

Glyconinum. — Glyconin , E.,  G. ; Gly coniine , Fr. 

Preparation. — Fresh  Yolk  of  Egg,  45  Gm. ; Glycerin,  55  Gm. ; to  make  100  Gm. 
Rub  the  yolk  of  egg  with  the  glycerin,  gradually  added,  until  they  are  thoroughly 
mixed — U.  S. 

If  720  grains  of  yolk  of  egg  be  triturated  with  880  grains  of  glycerin,  the  resulting 
mixture  will  measure  about  2£  fluidounces,  dependent,  of  course,  upon  the  density  of  the 
glycerin  used. 

This  glycerite  was  introduced  by  E.  Sichel  (1866),  who  recommended  4 parts  of  ^olk 
to  5 parts  of  glycerin.  It  has  the  consistence  of  honey,  and  keeps  unaltered  for  a long 
time  if  kept  in  stoppered  bottles  to  prevent  absorption  of  moisture.  G.  C.  Close  (1874) 
recommended  it  as  an  excellent  agent  for  emulsionizing  cod-liver  oil  and  other  fats. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  preparation  is  a protective,  and,  although  less  emollient 
than  glycerite  of  starch,  is  adapted  to  many  of  the  same  purposes,  and  is  useful  in 
burns , erythema , erysipelas , intertrigo , and  other  local  irritations. 


GLYCYRRHIZA,  77.  S.- Glycyrrhiza. 

Glycyrrhizse  radix,  Br.  ; Radix  liquiritise,  P.  G. ; Radix  glycyrrhizse  hispanicse . — 
Liquorice-  or  Licorice-root , Spanish  liquorice-root , E. ; Reglisse , Bois  de  reglisse,  Bois  doux , 
Racine  douce , Fr. ; Spanisches  Silssholz , G. ; Orozuz,  Regaliz , Palo  dulce,  Sp. 

The  root  (and  underground  stem)  of  Glycyrrhiza  glabra,  Linne , (Liquiritia  officinalis, 
Moench ),  and  of  the  variety  glandulifera  ( Waldstein  et  Kittaibel)  Regel  et  Herder. 
Bentley,  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  74. 

Nat.  Ord. — Leguminosae,  Papilionaceae. 

Origin. — This  perennial  in  several  well-marked  varieties  is  indigenous  to  the  countries 
on  the  northern  and  southern  shores  of  the  Mediterranean  and  farther  east,  through  the 
Caucasus,  Northern  Persia,  Afghanistan,  and  Southern  Siberia,  to  China.  The  typical 
form,  var.  typica,  Regel  et  Herder , grows  wild  as  far  east  as  Persia,  and  is  cultivated  in 
England,  France,  and  Germany,  and  also  to  a limited  extent  in  the  United  States.  The 
stout  roots  penetrate  deeply  into  the  ground,  while  long  horizontal  rhizomes  or  runners 
are  produced  near  the  surface.  The  herbaceous  overground  stems  are  1.2-1. 8 M.  (4  to  6 
feet)  high,  and  have  imparipinnate  leaves  with  oval-oblong  mucronate  leaflets,  which  are 
glutinous  beneath,  and  racemes  of  white  and  purplish  flowers  producing  brown  legumes 
containing  about  four  seeds.  The  variety  glandulifera  (Gl.  glandulifera,  Waldstein  ei 
Kittaibel,  Gl.  hirsuta,  Pallas')  has  the  leaves  glandular-hairy  beneath,  and  the  legumes 
more  or  less  glandular-prickly  ; it  grows  wild  and  is  cultivated  from  Turkey  and  Hungary 
eastward  to  Turkestan.  The  roots  and  rhizomes  are  collected  together  and  assorted  before 
being  brought  into  commerce. 

Description. — Liquorice-root  consists  of  long  cylindrical  pieces  varying  in  thickness 
from  6-25  Min.  (|  to  1 inch).  It  is  longitudinally  wrinkled,  covered  with  a grayish- 

brown  warty  cork,  pliable,  tough,  and 
Fig.  141.  Fig.  142.  breaks  with  a coarsely  fibrous  frac- 

ture. The  transverse  section  shows 
a bark  about  one-sixth  the  diameter 
of  the  root  in  thickness,  underneath 
the  cork  of  the  dull  or  bright  gray- 
ish-yellow color  of  the  wood,  and  in 
its  inner  layer  radiately  striate  from 
Russian  root.  the  long,  narrow,  and  somewhat  wavy 

Glycyrrhiza  glabra : transverse  section  of  rhizome  and  main  root..  kast-Wedges.  The  woody  medul- 

lium  consists  of  tough  fibro-vascular  tissue,  appearing  porous  from  the  large  vessels,  and 
forming  narrow  wedges  separated  from  one  another  by  still  narrower  medullary  rays. 
The  rhizome  has  the  same  appearance  and  structure,  and,  in  addition,  a thin  central  pith. 
Liquorice-root  has  a peculiar  odor  and  a strongly  sweet  somewhat  acrid  taste. 

Radix  liquiritia:  ( P . G.),  s.  russica,  Russian  liquorice-root,  is  mainly,  if  not  entirely, 
derived  from  the  var.  glandulifera.  It  consists  chiefly  of  the  main  root  and  its  branches, 
with  few  rhizomes,  and  is  about  30  Cm.  (a  foot)  long  and  2-10  Cm.  (1  to  4 inches)  thick, 
often  hollow  above,  usually  deprived  of  the  brown  corky  layer,  and  furnished  with  a light 
grayish-yellow,  thin  bark  covering  a more  porous  wood,  which  is  often,  fissured  in  the 
direction  of  the  medullary  rays,  is  softer,  and  breaks  with  a more  fibrous  fracture,  than 
the  preceding.  It  has  a very  sweet  and  somewhat  bitterish  taste,  and  yields  a lighter- 


Spanish  root  (rhizome). 


GLYCYRRHIZA. 


787 


colored  powder  than  the  former  kind.  Underneath  the  thin  corky  layer  is  the  thin,  small- 
celled  primary  bark  ; the  cells  of  the  medullary  rays  are  larger  and  radially  elongated  ; 
the  long,  tough,  and  somewhat  wavy  bast-fibres  are  surrounded  by  cells  containing  a 
crystal  of  calcium  oxalate  and  accompanied  by  horn-like  sieve-tubes  ; the  ducts  of  the 
wood-tissue  are  usually  in  small  groups,  and  are  large,  rather  thick-walled,  and  dotted. 
The  parenchyma  of  both  the  meditullium  and  bark  contains  much  starch. 

Constituents. — Robiquet  (1809),  Plisson  (1828),  and  others  obtained  from  liquor- 
ice-root starch,  asparagin,  albumen,  a resinous  oily  matter,  to  which  the  slight  acrid  taste 
of  the  root  is  due,  coloring  matter,  sugar,  and  glycyrrhizin.  Roussin  (1875)  found  the 
latter  to  be  present  in  the  root  as  ammonium  glycyrrhizate , which  he  obtained  pure  from 
the  cold  infusion,  after  removing  the  albumen  by  heat,  by  precipitating  with  sulphuric 
acid,  washing  the  precipitate  well  with  water,  dissolving  it  in  strong  alcohol,  and  adding 
ether,  whereby  a blackish  mass  is  precipitated  ; the  clear  liquid  is  then  carefully  mixed 
with  small  quantities  of  alcoholic  solution  of  ammonia.  The  precipitate  is  yellowish, 
very  light,  and  its  hot  aqueous  solution  on  cooling  forms  a jelly-like  mass,  and  on  evap- 
oration leaves  glycyrrhizin  in  brittle,  translucent,  shining  scales.  Prepared  by  the  same 
process,  with  the  exception  of  the  final  treatment  with  ammonia,  it  was  found  by  Gorup- 
Bensanez  (1861)  to  have  the  composition  C24H3609 ; to  be  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  and 
hot  water,  and  on  boiling  with  dilute  acids,  to  be  split  into  glucose  and  a bitter  resinous 
substance  named  glycyrretin.  Habermann  (1880)  gives  to  glycyrrhizin  or  glycyrrhizic 
acid  the  formula  C^H^NO^,  and  states  that  by  heating  with  diluted  sulphuric  acid  it  is 
decomposed  into  glycyrretin,  C32H47N04,  and  parasaccharic  acid,  C6HI0O8,  the  latter  yield- 
ing amorphous  salts,  and  the  former  being  a white  crystalline  powder  insoluble  in  water, 
alkalies,  and  ether,  easily  soluble  in  alcohol,  glacial  acetic  acid,  and  strong  sulphuric  acid, 
fusible  at  200°  C.,  and  not  yielding  any  paraoxybenzoic  acid  with  fusing  potassa,  as  had 
been  stated  by  Weselski  and  Benedict  (1876).  In  purifying  ammoniacal  glycyrrhizin 
the  amorphous  bitter  principle  glycyramarin , C36H57N013,  was  obtained,  soluble  in  ether- 
alcohol,  and  a resin  soluble  in  glacial  acetic  acid  and  yielding  paraoxybenzoic  acid,  C7H603, 
on  melting  it  together  with  potassa. 

Allied  Drugs. — Ononis  spinosa,  Linne,  Radix  ononidis,  P.  G. — Rest-harrow,  i?. ; Bugrane, 
Bougrane,  Fr. ; Hauhechel,  G. — This  is  a perennial  herb  common  in  sandy  soil  in  Europe.  The 
root,  which  is  the  part  employed,  is  about  60  Cm.  (2  feet)  long,  1-2  Cm.  (§  to  f inch)  thick,  slightly 
branched,  many  headed,  tough-woody,  and  mostly  curved  and  of  a flattened  and  twisted  appear- 
ance. It  has  a deeply-wrinkled,  dark  gray-brown,  thin  bark  and  an  irregular  whitish,  tough, 
fibrous  meditullium  with  numerous  medullary  rays.  It  has  a faint  odor  resembling  that  of 
liquorice-root,  and  a mucilaginous,  sweetish  afterward  bitterish,  and  disagreeable  taste.  It  was 
analyzed  by  Reinsch  (1842)  and  Hlasiwetz  (1855).  Ononin,  C30H34O13,  is  a crystalline,  colorless, 
and  tasteless  glucoside  slightly  soluble  in  boiling  water,  more  so  in  alcohol.  Onocerin , C12H20O, 
is  crystalline,  fusible,  colorless,  and  tasteless.  Reinsch’s  ononid  is  considered  by  Hlasiwetz  to 
be  altered  glycyrrhizin  ; like  the  latter,  it  is  precipitated  by  acids  from  its  aqueous  solutions. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparations. — Syrupus  glycyrrhiza,  Syr.  liquiritiae,  P.  G. 
— Syrup  of  liquorice-root,  E. — Macerate  for  12  hours  20  parts  of  peeled  liquorice-root 
with  ammonia- water  10  parts  and  water  100  parts,  express,  heat  to  boiling,  evaporate  to 
10  parts,  and  add  alcohol  10  parts,  filter  after  12  hours,  and  add  sufficient  simple  syrup 
to  make  100  parts. — P.  G.  A syrup  of  the  same  strength  will  be  obtained  by  mixing  2 
parts  of  fluid  extract  of  liquorice-root  with  8 parts  of  simple  syrup. 

Pasta  glycyrrhiza  (s.  liquiritiae).  Macerate  1 part  of  cut  liquorice-root  in  20 
parts  of  water  for  12  hours,  strain  and  filter;  add  10  parts  of  water,  15  of  gum-arabic, 
and  9 of  sugar;  dissolve,  strain,  and  heat,  removing  the  scum  ; then  evaporate  until  on 
cooling  it  will  form  a translucent  mass,  which  is  cut  into  suitable  pieces.  The  French 
Codex  recognizes  a Pate  de  reglisse  noire  made  with  extract  of  liquorice  and  sugar  each  5 
parts,  gum-arabic  10  parts,  and  water  33  parts;  and  a Pate  de  reglisse  brune , made  with 
100  parts  of  extract  of  liquorice,  1500  parts  of  gum-arabic,  1000  of  sugar,  2500  of  water, 
and  1 part  extract  of  opium.  The  finished  paste  will  weigh  3000  parts. 

Action  and  Uses. — Liquorice-root  is  demulcent  and  laxative,  and  locally  is  slightly 
stimulant;  it  is  supposed  to  promote  the  secretions  of  the  congested  mucous  membrane 
of  the  air-passages.  The  infusion  is  a useful  drink  in  febrile  catarrhal  affections , espe- 
cially those  attended  with  much  thirst,  and  in  febrile  and  irritative  disorders  of  the 
hoicels  and  urinary  organs.  In  these  cases  it  it  usually  prepared  with  flaxseed-,  rice-, 
barley-,  or  gum-water.  It  is  said  that  an  infusion  of  liquorice-root  may  be  used  by  dia- 
betic patients  without  aggravating  their  disease.  Liquorice-root  is  an  ingredient  of  the 
very  excellent  laxative  which  is  now  officinal  as  the  compound  powder  of  glycyrrhiza. 
It  is  also  used  to  correct  the  acrid  or  bitter  flavor  of  certain  medicines,  such  as  quinine, 


788 


GL  YCYRRHIZIN UM  A MMONIA  TUM. 


colocynth,  aloes,  quassia,  senega,  mezereon,  guaiacum,  and  sal-ammoniac,  but  for  this 
purpose  the  extracts  are  more  convenient. 

It  is  recorded  that  some  children  who  chewed  the  roots  of  “ glycine  ” in  mistake  for 
Spanish  liquorice-root  presented  symptoms  of  gastric  inflammation,  general  collapse,  and 
somnolence  {Med.  News  and  Abstract , May,  1881,  p.  308). 

Abrus  precatorius  furnishes  the  seeds  which  are  treated  of  elsewhere  (page  1)  ; its 
“ root  has  been  used  in  the  place  of  liquorice,  for  which,  in  our  opinion,  it  is  a very  bad 
substitute  ” (Fliickiger  and  Hanbury). 

Ononis  spinosa,  or  rest-harrow  (“  aratro-inimicus,”  Plinius),  so  called  from  its  tangled 
roots  impeding  the  harrow,  was  much  esteemed  until  quite  recent  times  as  a diuretic  and 
lithontriptic  in  decoctions  made  with  vinegar  or  water ; also  as  a stimulant  for  unhealthy 
ulcers  and  as  a mouth-wash  in  toothache.  More  recently  it  was  used  to  “ remove  obstruc- 
tions ” of  the  liver  and  spleen  in  jaundice  and  dropsy , and  externally  in  the  treatment  of 
haemorrhoids , hydrocele , and  eruptions  of  the  scalp.  It  was  credited  with  the  cure  of 
goitre  and  of  hydrocele , but,  on  the  whole,  has  been  most  esteemed  as  a diuretic  in  dropsy, 
although  less  frequently  prescribed  alone  than  associated  with  squill,  juniper,  parsley, 
etc.  Its  glucoside,  ononin,  given  by  Schroff  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.2— 0.3  (gr.  iij-v),  occa- 
sioned a persistent  feeling  of  irritation  and  rawness  in  the  throat  and  mouth,  but  no 
other  effects. 

Rest-harrow  continues  to  be  employed,  by  country  physicians  especially  and  in  domes- 
tic practice  in  Germany  and  France,  for  the  cure  of  dropsy , and,  we  are  assured  (Cazin), 
sometimes  successfully  when  more  accredited  diuretics  fail.  But  usually  it  forms  only 
one  of  the  ingredients  of  a compound  infusion,  the  others  consisting  of  the  articles 
before  mentioned,  with  the  addition  of  cream  of  tartar  or  acetate  of  potassium.  A 
decoction  of  the  root  is  administered  internally  in  chronic  gout  and  rheumatism , espe- 
cially where  the  local  lesions  are  slight,  and  is  also  applied  in  poultices  to  enlarged,  glands . 
The  decoction  is  prepared  with  Gm.  32-64  to  Gm.  500  (1  or  2 ounces  of  the  root 
in  a pint  of  water),  of  which  a wineglassful  or  more  may  be  taken  every  two  or  three 
hours. 

GLYCYRRHIZINUM  AMMONIATUM,  U.  S.— Ammoniated  Glycyr- 

RHIZIN. 

Glycyrrhizinum  ammoniacale , Glycyrrhizine  ammoniacale , Fr. ; Ammoniah-  Glycyrrhi- 
zin , G. 

Preparation. — Glycyrrhiza,  in  No.  20  powder,  500  Gm. ; Water,  Ammonia- water, 
Sulphuric  Acid,  each  a sufficient  quantity.  Mix  475  Cc.  of  water  with  25  Cc.  of  ammo- 
nia-water, and,  having  moistened  the  powder  with  the  mixture,  macerate  for  twenty-four 
hours.  Then  pack  it  moderately  in  a conical  glass  percolator,  and  gradually  pour  water 
upon  it  until  500  Cc.  of  percolate  are  obtained.  Add  sulphuric  acid  slowly  to  the  per- 
colate, with  constant  stirring,  so  long  as  a precipitate  is  produced.  Collect  this  on  a 
strainer,  wash  it  with  cold  water  until  the  washings  no  longer  have  an  acid  reaction, 
redissolve  it  in  water  with  the  aid  of  ammonia-water,  filter  if  necessary,  and  again  add 
sulphuric  acid  so  long  as  a precipitate  is  produced.  Collect  this,  wash  it,  dissolve  it  in 
sufficient  ammonia-water  previously  diluted  with  an  equal  volume  of  water,  and  spread 
the  clear  solution  upon  plates  of  glass,  so  that  when  dry  the  product  may  be  obtained  in 
scales. — U.  S. 

Using  20  oz.  av.  of  glycyrrhiza  and  1 fluidounce  of  ammonia-water  would  preserve 
the  proportion  of  the  Pharmacopoeia. 

This  is  Roussin’s  process  (see  Glycyrrhiza),  as  modified  by  Appenzeller  (1876),  who 
noticed  that  a considerably  larger  quantity,  somewhat  darker  in  color,  is  obtained  03  ex- 
hausting the  root  with  ammonia-water,  and  that  the  scales  have  a more  pleasant  taste  1 
liquorice-root  deprived  of  the  brown  corky  layer  be  used.  Commercial  extract  of  liquorice 
yields  a still  darker  and  less  pleasant  product.  The  cold  percolate,  if  not  too  strong  y 
alkaline,  when  heated  to  boiling  deposits  most  of  the  albumen;  this  and  other  impurities 
are  removed  by  again  dissolving  the  precipitated  glycyrrhizic  acid  in  ammonia  and  *epic- 
cipitating  it  by  an  acid  before  its  ammoniacal  solution  is  finally  evaporated  and  sea  cc . 
The  yield  is  about  10  per  cent.  . , 

Properties. — Ammoniated  glycyrrhizin  is  in  transparent  “ dark-brown  or  browms  - 
red  scales,  inodorous,  of  a very  sweet  taste,  and  readily  soluble  in  water  and  in  alco  10  . 
The  aqueous  solution,  when  heated  with  potassa  or  soda,  evolves  vapor  of  ammonia.  n 
supersaturating  the  aqueous  solution  with  an  acid,  a substance  (glycyrrhizin)  is  precipi- 


GNAPHALIUM.—GOSSYPII  R A DIC1S  CORTEX. 


789 


tated  which,  when  dissolved  in  hot  water,  forms  a jelly  on  cooling.  This  substance,  when 
washed  with  diluted  alcohol  and  dried,  appears  as  an  amorphous  yellow  powder  of  a strong, 
bitter-sweet  taste  and  an  acid  reaction.  On  ignition  glycyrrhizin  should  leave  not  more 
than  a trace  of  ash.” — U.  S.  The  scales  consist  mainly  of  ammonium  glycyrrhizate, 
(NH4)C44H62N018  (Habermann),  with  a variable  quantity  of  glycyramarin.  They  are 
insoluble  in  ether,  sparingly  soluble  in  strong  alcohol,  become  darker  colored  at  100°  C. 
(212°  F.),  and  at.  a higher  heat  melt,  being  decomposed  at  the  same  time.  Glycyrrhizic 
acid  is  tribasic ; the  taste  of  its  alkali  salts  is  very  sweet,  and  in  the  pure  state  free  from 
the  characteristic  after-taste  of  liquorice ; their  solutions  in  water  foam  strongly  on  agita- 
tion and  produce  voluminous  precipitates  with  most  salts  of  the  heavy  metals. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  superiority  of  this  preparation  over  pure  extract  of 
liquorice  is  not  apparent.  Possibly  it  may  be  more  useful  in  the  dry  stage  of  inflamma- 
tion of  the  respiratory  mucous  membrane. 

GNAPHALIUM. — Life-Everlasting. 

Pied  de  chat , Immortelle , Fr. ; Katzenpfotchen , Immerschon , G.  ; Gordolobo , Sp. 

The  flowers  and  flowering  herb  of  different  species  of  Gnaphalium  and  allied  genera. 

Nat.  Ord. — Compositae,  Senecionidese. 

Description. — Gnaphalium  polycephalum,  Linne , grows  in  woods  and  fields  of 
North  America.  It  is  a woolly  annual,  with  lanceolate  nearly  entire  leaves,  and  with  the 
numerous  ovate  and  obovate  flower-heads  in  dense  corymbose  clusters  terminating  the 
branches ; the  involucral  scales  are  dry,  scarious,  and  whitish,  the  tubular  florets  yellow- 
ish. The  plant  is  quite  fragrant,  and  has  a bitterish  and  aromatic  taste.  On  drying,  the 
loss  in  weight  of  the  flowering-tops  amounts  to  about  65  per  cent. 

Gnaph.  margaritaceum,  Linne , s.  Antennaria  margaritacea,  R.  Brown , grows  in  sim- 
ilar localities  with  the  preceding,  chiefly  northward,  and  has  larger,  roundish-ovate  heads, 
which  are  of  a pearly  whiteness  and  slight  odor. 

Gnaph.  (Helichrysum,  De  Candolle')  arenarium,  Linne , grows  in  Europe  and  Asia. 
The  heads  are  globular-oblong,  of  a lemon-  or  orange-yellow  color  and  agreeable  odor. 

Gnaph.  dioicum,  Linne , s.  Antennaria  dioica,  Gaertner , is  indigenous  to  Europe.  The 
barren  flower-heads  are  hemispherical  and  whitish,  the  fertile  ones  more  top-shaped  and 
reddish  or  purplish.  The  species  is  very  closely  related  to  Antennaria  plantaginifolia, 
Hooker , which  is  common  in  North  America,  where  it  is  known  as  mouse-ear. 

Constituents. — These  plants  appear  to  contain  a little  volatile  oil  and  bitter  principle. 

Action  and  Uses. — In  Europe  an  infusion  of  the  leaves  and  flowers  of  several 
species  of  Gnaphalium,  which  have,  when  chewed,  an  agreeable  aromatic  and  slightly 
bitter  and  astringent  taste,  is  used  in  chronic  bronchitis  and  diarrhoea  and  in  poultices  to 
unhealthy  ulcers.  All  the  species  are  employed  under  similar  circumstances.  They  may 
be  given  in  an  infusion  made  with  half  an  ounce  of  the  plant  to  a pint  of  water — Gm.  16 
in  Gm.  500. 


GOSSYPII  RADICIS  CORTEX,  U.  S.— Cottonroot-bark. 

Ecorce  de  la  racine  de  cotonnier , Fr. ; Baumwoll-  Wurzelrinde , G. ; Corteza  de  la  raiz 
d\dgodon , Sp. 

The  bark  of  the  root  of  Gossypium  herbaceum,  Linnl , and  of  other  species  of  Gossy- 
pium.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 37. 

Nat.  Ord. — Malvaceae. 

Origin. — The  different  species  of  Gossypium  are  indigenous  to  the  tropical  and  sub- 
tropical countries  of  Asia  and  Africa,  and  have  been  cultivated  from  a very  early  period, 
whereby  many  characteristic  varieties  have  been  produced.  They  are  herbaceous  or 
shrubby  plants  or  small  trees,  with  three-  to  five-lobed  leaves  and  showy  axillary  flowers, 
having  a three-leaved  involucre,  a cup-shaped  calyx,  five  petals,  numerous  stamens,  and 
producing  a three-  to  five-celled  capsule,  which  opens  by  as  many  valves ; the  numerous 
seeds  are  densely  covered  with  long  woolly  hairs.  Bentley  and  Trimen  refer  the  Sea 
Island  cotton  to  Goss,  barbadense,  Linne , and  to  this  the  following  as  synonyms  : G.  viti- 
folium,  Lamarck , G.  peruvianum,  De  Candolle , G.  punctatum,  Schumacher  et.  Thonning , 
G.  acuminatum,  Roxburgh , G.  religiosum,  Parlatore , non  Linne.  According  to  A.  W. 
Chapman,  the  long-staple  or  Sea  Island  cotton  cultivated  in  the  United  States  is  referred 
to  Goss,  nigrum,  Haworth , and  the  short-staple  or  upland  cotton  to  Goss,  album,  Haw. 
The  seeds  of  Goss,  religiosum,  Linne , are  invested  with  a yellow  wool.  Cottonroot  is 


790 


GOSSYPIUM  PUBIF1CATUM. 


conical,  nearly  simple  or  little  branched,  bard  and  woody,  and  covered  with  a thin  hark, 
which  is  official.  Goss,  arboreum,  Linne,  is  cultivated  in  some  tropical  countries  for  cotton. 

Description. — Cottonroot-bark  is  in  thin,  flexible  bands  or  quilled  pieces  covered 
with  a brownish-yellow,  satiny,  very  thin  cork,  by  the  abrasion  of  which  irregular 
dull  brownish-orange  patches  appear.  The  cork  forms  slight  longitudinal  ridges 
which  are  often  confluent  into  elongated  meshes  and  marked  with  black  circular  dots  or 
short  transverse  lines.  The  inner  surface  is  whitish  or  reddish-white,  of  a nearly  silky 
lustre,  and  finely  striate  in  a longitudinal  direction  by  the  thin  medullary  rays.  The  bast- 
fibres  are  long  and  tough,  arranged  in  tangential  rows,  and  are  separated  without  difficulty 
in  very  thin  layers.  The  bark  breaks  with  difficulty  in  a transverse  direction,  but  is 
readily  torn  longitudinally.  It  is  without  odor  and  without  taste,  with  the  exception  of 
a very  slight  acridity  and  faint  astringency.  < It  bears  a pretty  close  resemblance  to  meze- 
reon-bark,  except  in  color  and  taste. 

Constituents. — The  bark  contains  starch , and*  when  fresh,  according  to  W.  A. 
Taylor  (1876),  & chromogene  which  dissolves  in  alcohol  with  a pale-yellow  color,  gradually 
changing  to  a bright  brownish-red.  The  same  change  takes  place  on  keeping  the  bark 
for  some  time,  which  then  yields  a red  tincture  with  alcohol.  This  substance  was  exam- 
ined by  Prof.  Wayne  (1872)  and  W.  C.  Staehle  (1875),  who  regard  it  as  of  a resinous 
nature.  The  latter  obtained  about  8 per  cent,  of  this  substance,  which  is  soluble  in  11 
parts  of  alcohol,  15  of  chloroform,  23  of  ether,  and  122  of  benzene ; also  in  alkalies,  from 
which  solutions  it  is  again  precipitated  by  acids.  The  potassa  solution  diluted  with 
water  is  of  a sage-green  tint.  Glucose  was  likewise  observed,  and  the  aqueous  solution 
of  the  alcoholic  extract  contained  a principle  which  gave  a purplish-black  precipitate 
with  ferric  chloride.  C.  C.  Drueding  (1877)  obtained  also  a yellow  resin  soluble  in 
petroleum  benzin,  fixed  oil,  little  tannin,  and  6 per  cent,  of  ash. 

Substitutions. — In  1875  a false  cottonroot-bark,  evidently  obtained  from  the  root 
of  a tree,  was  found  in  the  market;  it  was  3 to  6 Mm.  (£«to  \ inch)  thick,  pale-brown 
to  rust-brown  in  color,  covered  with  a soft  fissured  cork,  inodorous,  and  of  a slight  astrin- 
gent afterward  bitterish  and  acrid  taste,  and  yielded  with  alcohol  a brown  tincture.  Its 
origin  has  not  been  ascertained. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  only  virtue  of  cottonroot-bark  consists  in  its  action  upon 
the  uterine  system.  It  is  reputed  to  have  long  been  used  by  the  female  negroes  of  the 
Southern  States  for  producing  abortion.  There  appears  to  be  little  doubt  that  it  acts 
like  ergot  upon  the  uterus,  and  that  it  displays  its  virtues  in  dysmenorrhoea  and  scanty 
menstruation,  and  particularly  in  suppression  of  the  menses  produced  by  cold.  According 
to  Prochawnick,  it  is  less  efficient  during  labor  than  ergot,  but  more  so  in  the  treatment 
of  uterine  tumors  and  in  subinvolution  of  the  uterus.  Garrigues  claims  that  its  action  is 
identical  with  that  of  ergot  in  nature,  but  is  inferior  in  certainty  of  action  {Med.  News, 
1.  185).  It  is  generally  used  in  a decoction,  prepared  by  boiling  Gm.  128  (4  ounces)  of 
the  bark  in  2 pints  of  water,  to  the  reduction  of  one-half.  Of  this  a wineglassful  is 
given  every  twenty  or  thirty  minutes  as  an  oxytocic.  The  fluid  extract,  which  is  officinal, 
is  a more  convenient  but  apparently  a less  active  form  of  the  medicine,  and  may  be 
prescribed  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  2-4  (npxxx-lx).  A tea  made  from  the  fresh  leaves  of 
the  cotton-plant  is  used  in  Jamaica  as  a galactagogue  {Med.  Times  and  Gaz .,  Feb.  1880, 
p.  194).  It  is  true  that  experiments  performed  on  frogs  and  rabbits  by  Dr.  Martin 
{Amer.  Jour,  of  Med.  Sci .,  Jan.  1882,  p.  82),  so  far  from  indicating  any  action  that 
would  explain  the  facts  just  mentioned,  only  denote  a narcotic  and  paralyzing  operation. 
It  is  sufficient  to  remark  that  the  results  of  such  physiological  experiments  by  no  means 
invalidate  those  of  clinical  experience.  Cotton-seed  tea  is  a mucilaginous  liquid  which 
forms  an  appropriate  drink  in  dysentery.  The  seeds  have  also  been  recommended  as 
galactagogue,  but  the  evidence  of  their  value  in  this  respect  is  insufficient. 

GOSSYPIUM  PURIFICATUM,  U.  S.— Purified  Cotton. 

Gossypium , Br. ; G.  depur  atum,  P.  G. ; Bombyx , Lana  ( Lanugo , s.  Pdi  ) gossypn.  Ab- 
sorbent cotton , E. ; Coton  absorbant,  Fr.  ; Gereinigte  Baumwolle , G. ; Algodon , Sp. 

The  hairs  of  the  seed  of  Gossypium  herbaceum,  Linne , and  other  species  of  Gossypium, 
freed  from  adhering  impurities  and  deprived  of  fatty  matter. 

Description. — Cotton  consists  of  soft,  narrow-filiform,  thin-walled,  simple  cells, 
which  are  about  12  to  38  Mm.  (£  to  inches)  long,  and  appear  under  the  microscope 
as  flattened  hollow  and  twisted  bands,  which  are  slightly  thickened. at  the  edges,  finely 
and  spirally  striate,  and  nearly  cylindrical  at  the  apex.  Its  specific  gravity  was  by 


GOSSYPIUM  PURIFICATUM. 


791 


Schuhmeister  (1877)  ascertained  to  be  1.707,  while  Kopp  had  previously  determined  it 
1.27,  and  Grasi  1.979.  It  is  without  odor  or  taste,  insoluble  in  the 
ordinary  solvents,  but  soluble  in  ammoniacal  solution  of  oxide  of 
copper,  and  is  colored  blue  by  solution  of  zinc  chloride  and  iodine, 
but  not  by  solution  of  iodine.  It  consists  of  nearly  pure  cellulose, 
and  yields  with  nitric  acid  an  explosive  nitro-compound  (see 
Pyroxylin)  which  is  used  in  preparing  collodion. 

The  cotton-hairs  are  so  thoroughly  impregnated  with  fat  that  this 
cannot  be  removed  by  simple  solvents.  F.  L.  Slocum  (1881)  found 
the  following  process  effectual : Boil  carded  cotton  for  half  an  hour 

with  a 5 per  cent,  solution  of  caustic  potassa  or  soda ; wash 
thoroughly  to  remove  all  soap ; express  and  immerse  the  cotton  in  a 
5 per  cent,  solution  of  chlorinated  lime  for  fifteen  or  twenty  minutes  ; 
again  wash,  first  with  water ; then  dip  into  water  acidulated  with 
hydrochloric  acid,  and  thoroughly  wash  with  water ; express,  and 
again  boil  for  fifteen  or  twenty  minutes  in  a 5 per  cent,  solution  of 
alkali,  wash  well  with  water,  acidulated  water,  and  water ; express 
and  dry  quickly.  By  boiling  once  with  alkali  the  cotton  becomes 
somewhat  absorbent,  but  the  whole  of  the  fat  is  not  removed  until  it  has  been  boiled  a 
second  time  with  alkali.  The  loss  by  this  process  is  about  7 per  cent.,  and  represents 
mainly  fat. 

“ Purified  cotton  should  be  perfectly  free  from  all  visible  impurities,  and  on  com- 
bustion should  not  leave  more  than  0.8  per  cent,  of  ash.  When  thrown  upon  water  it 
should  immediately  absorb  the  latter  and  sink,  and  the  water  should  not  acquire  either  an 
acid  or  an  alkaline  reaction.” — V.  S.  By  the  absorption  of  water  the  hairs  of  the  puri- 
fied cotton  distend  and  become  more  cylindrical,  losing  their  band-like  appearance.  The 
untwisting  of  the  flattened  tubes  of  cotton  filaments  by  caustic  soda  was  noticed  by  Mr. 
Mercer  (1867). 

Pharmaceutical  Preparations. — Salicylic  ( Salicylated ) Cotton.  According 
to  Bruns  (1878),  cotton  should  be  impregnated  with  5 and  with  10  per  cent,  of  salicylic 
acid.  50  or  100  Gms.  of  salicylic  acid  and  10  or  20  Gms.  each  of  castor  oil  and  resin 
are  dissolved  in  4 liters  of  alcohol,  and  1 Kgm.  of  clean  absorbent  cotton  is  immersed  in 
the  solution  and  dried. 

Benzoic  Cotton  is  made  by  the  same  processes,  substituting  benzoic  acid  for  salicylic 
acid ; the  addition  of  a small  quantity  of  glycerin  to  the  alcohol  serves  to  fix  these  acids 
more  permanently  to  the  cotton. 

Iodoform  Cotton  is  made  in  a similar  manner,  using  an  ethereal  solution  of  iodo- 
form. 

Haemostatic  Cotton  is  absorbent  cotton  impregnated  with  Monsel’s  solution  or  with 
a mixture  of  ferric  chloride  and  alum. 

Chlorinated  Cotton  is  made  by  Pavesi  (1880)  by  suspending  cotton  slightly  damp- 
ened with  glycerin  over  a mixture  of  chlorinated  lime,  water,  and  sulphuric  acid. 

Action  and.  Uses. — Cotton  has  long  been  employed  as  a dressing  for  burns , scalds, 
blitters,  excoriations,  erysipelas,  and  similar  inflammations.  If  the  burn,  scald,  or  blister  is 
superficial,  there  is  no  better  dressing  for  it.  No  other  application  more  speedily  and  com- 
pletely allays  the  pain  of  the  injury.  Even  when  the  tissue  of  the  skin  is  more  deeply 
interested  the  dressing  is  unsurpassed.  It  should  consist  of  very  thin  layers  of  carded 
or  absorbent  cotton,  successively  applied  and  secured  by  a bandage,  and  should  not  be 
removed  until  the  cure  is  complete.  Cotton  impregnated  with  carbolic,  boracic,  salicylic, 
and  benzoic  acids,  iodine,  iodoform,  etc.,  has  sometimes  been  employed.  (For  details  see 
A oakes,  Practitioner , xxv.  47).  The  fibre  has  been  used  as  a substitute  for  lint,  and 
also  for  sponge,  after  being  thoroughly  freed  from  the  unctuous  matter  which  in  its 
natural  condition  renders  cotton  inapt  for  absorbing  the  secretions.  As  a dressing  for 
surgical  wounds  cotton  is  said  to  be  one  of  the  most  perfect  preventives  of  purulent 
infection,  as  well  as  of  prolonged  suppuration,  if  it  is  properly  applied  in  the  manner 
described  above.  Washed,  or  absorbent,  cotton  is  especially  applicable  to  this  purpose, 
and  is  still  more  efficient  if  it  has  been  washed  in  carbolic-acid  water.  Vaginal  pessaries 
have  been  made  of  carded  cotton,  chiefly  for  cases  of  uterine  displacement  in  which 
instruments  or  harder  materials  cannot  be  tolerated.  They  are  so  shaped  as  to  fill  the 
upper  part  of  the  vagina,  and  usually  are  rendered  somewhat  firmer  by  holding  in  their 
centre  a bent  rod  of  gutta-percha.  They  require,  of  course,  daily  or  frequent  removal ; 
to  obviate  which  difficulty  they  have  sometimes  been  dipped  into  a solution  of  caout- 


Fig.  143. 


Cotton  fibres. 


792 


GRANATUM. 


chouc,  which  gives  them  a thin,  and  for  a time  impermeable,  coating.  Absorbent  cotton, 
medicated  variously  as  above,  is  a convenient  substance  for  introducing  into  the  ears  and 
nostrils. 

Boehmeria  nivea  furnishes  a fibre  which  is  employed  for  many  of  the  purposes  of  cot- 
ton, and  has  been  recommended  as  a substitute  for  absorbent  cotton,  lint,  etc.  (Annuaire 
de  Therap .,  1889,  p.  143). 

GRANATUM,  U.  S. — Pomegranate. 

Granati  radicis  cortex , Br. ; Cortex  granati , P.  A.,  P.  G. — Bark  of  pomegranate-root , E. ; 
Grenadier , F.  Cod. ; Ecorce  de  balaustier,  Fr.  ; Granatrinde , G.  ; Corteza  de  granado , Sp 

The  bark  of  the  root  of  Punica  Granatum,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 113. 

Nat.  Ord. — Lythrarceae. 

Origin. — The  pomegranate  is  indigenous  to  South-western  Asia  from  Northern  India 
to  Palestine ; it  has  been  cultivated  from  remote  antiquity,  and  is  now  met  with  in  all 
subtropical  countries.  It  is  a shrub  or  small  tree  about  6 M.  (20  feet)  high,  with  lance- 
olate or  oblong,  pointed,  entire,  and  shining  leaves,  and  producing  a depressed  globose  fruit 
of  the  size  of  an  orange,  irregularly  divided  by  a transverse  dissepiment  into  two  unequal 
parts,  the  lower  and  smaller  of  which  is  about  three-celled  and  the  upper  five-  to  nine- 
celled.  The  numerous  seeds  are  oblong,  irregularly  angular  from  pressure,  each  invested 
with  a fleshy  pink-colored  translucent  coating.  The  bark  of  the  root  is  alone  recognized 
by  the  British  and  French  Pharmacopoeias,  but  the  other  pharmacopoeias  admit  also  the 
stem-bark,  which  was  shown  by  Nagelvoort  (1878)  to  be  equally  effective.  The  flowers 
(. Balaustia , Balanote , Fr. ; Balaustrias,  Sp.),  the  sweet  acidulous  seed-coating,  and  the 
rind  of  the  fruit  are  likewise  used. 

Description. — The  bark  of  pomegranate-root  is  met  with  in  commerce  in  curved 
pieces  or  quills  5-10  Cm.  (2  to  4 inches)  long  and  1—2  Mm.  (y1^-  inch)  thick,  which  are 
externally  of  a yellowish  gray  color,  marked  with  longitudinal 
Fig.  144.  or  reticulate  corky  ridges,  or  irregular  warts,  and  conchoidal 

depressions ; the  inner  surface  is  smooth,  finely  striate,  of  a 
grayish  or  reddish-yellow  color,  frequently  with  fragments  of  the 
whitish  wood  adhering.  It  breaks  with  a short,  granular  frac- 
ture, which  is  of  a greenish-yellow  hue  and  indistinctly  rad 
iate  in  the  inner  layer ; it  has  no  odor  and  a purely  astringent 
scarcely  bitter  taste.  The  trunk-bark,  which  is  usually  found  in 
the  commercial  article,  and  is  admitted  by  the  German  Pharma- 
copoeia, is  externally  of  a more  yellowish-gray  hue,  is  more  reg- 
ularly marked  with  corky  ridges,  has  no  conchoidal  depressions 
upon  the  outer  surface,  and  is  frequently  covered  with  blackish 
lichens,  which  are  wanting  on  the  root-bark.  Both  barks  consist 
mainly  of  the  bast-layer,  and  this  is  destitute  of  bast-fibres,  but 
contains  a number  of  scattered,  thick-walled  stone-cells,  and  con- 
sists of  tangential  rowrs  of  parenchyma-cells,  which  contain  starch 
and  tannin,  and  alternate  with  rows  of  crystal-cells  containing 
calcium  oxalate ; the  medullary  rays  are  very  numerous  and  del- 
icate ; the  layer  of  primary  bark  is  thin,  and  is  covered  with  a 
thin  layer  of  cork. 

Constituents. — The  principal  constituent  is  tannin,  of  which 
Wackenroder  (1824)  found  about  22  per  cent.,  and  which  was 
recognized  as  peculiar  by  Stenhouse  (1843).  By  fractional  pre- 
cipitation of  the  decoction  with  lead  acetate,  Ramdohr  (1867) 
obtained  some  gallotannic  acid,  which  could  be  converted  into 
gallic  acid,  and  punico-tannic  acid , C20H16O13,  which  is  insoluble 
in  alcohol  and  ether,  reduces  silver  and  alkaline  copper  solutions, 
and  precipitates  gelatin,  tartar  emetic,  and  ferric  salts,  the  latter 
black.  When  boiled  with  dilute  acids  it  is  split  into  sugar  and 
ellagic  acid , C]4H608.  Stenhouse  did  not  succeed  in  obtaining 
indications  of  the  presence  of  gallic  acid.  Boutron-Charlard  and 
Punica  Granatum : root-bark,  Guillemette  (1835)  isolated  mannit,  which  Latour  de  Trie  (1830) 
tied  40  diameters.  had  named  granatin,  and  Guiart  (1831)  granato-manmt.  Ceneaella 

(1835)  obtained  also  sugar  and  mucilaginous  and  pectin  com- 
pounds. Tanret  (1878)  announced  the  discovery  in  the  root-bark  and  stem-bark  of  an 


GHANA  TUM. 


793 


alkaloid,  which,  in  honor  of  Pelletier,  he  proposed  to  call  pelletierine  ; it  is  obtained  by  mix- 
ing the  bark  with  milk  of  lime,  displacing  with  water,  and  exhausting  the  percolate  with 
chloroform.  Thus  obtained,  it  is  colorless,  oily,  aromatic,  and  very  soluble  in  water,  alco- 
hol, ether,  and  chloroform  ; it  precipitates  the  salts  of  most  metals,  and  unites  with  acids  to 
form  crystallizable  salts.  4 parts  of  the  alkaloid  were  obtained  from  1000  parts  of  the 
bark.  Shortly  afterward  Tanret  proved  that  it  was  a mixture  of  three  liquid  and  one 
solid  alkaloid,  which  may  be  separated  by  fractional  treatment  with  sodium  bicarbonate. 
Pelletierine,  C«H15NO,  has  the  spec.  grav.  .988  at  0°  C.  (32°  F.),  boils  at  125°  C.  (257° 
F.).  dissolves  its  own  weight  of  water,  is  soluble  in  20  parts  of  water,  and  shows  a left 
rotation  to  polarized  light.  Isopelletierine  has  the  same  composition  and  properties,  but 
is  optically  inactive,  and  its  sulphate  is  deliquescent.  Methylpelletierine  requires  25 
parts  of  water  for  solution,  boils  at  215°  C.  (419°  F.),  is  dextrogyre,  and  its  salts  are 
very  hygroscopic.  Pseudopelletierine,  C9H15NO.  crystallizes  from  ether  or  chloroform 
in  long  prisms,  melts  at  46°  C.  (114°.8  F.),  boils  at  246°  C.  (475°  F.),  and  is  easily 
soluble. 

Adulterations  and  Substitutions. — The  hark  of  hoxicood  has  an  exfoliating 
corky  layer,  a yellowish-brown  color,  and  a sweetish-bitter  taste ; its  infusion  is  not 
affected  by  ferric  salts.  Barber ry-bark  is  readily  distinguished  by  the  bright  yellow  color 
of  its  tissue.  (See  Berberis,  p.  314.)  Both  these  barks  are  free  from  tannin.  The 
infusion  of  pomegranate-bark  in  100  parts  of  cold  water  has  a yellowish  color,  and  yields 
with  lime-water  a red  flocculent  precipitate,  and  with  ferric  chloride  a dark-blue  or  blue- 
black  color. 


(s.  malicorii),  Pericarpium 
grenade,  Cuir  de  pomme  de 

Fig.  145. 


Allied  Drug. — Granati  fructus  cortex;  Cortex  grenatoruin 
granati. — Pomegranate-rind,  Pomegranate-bark,  E. ; kicorce  de 
grenadier,  Fr. ; Granatenschalen,  G. — Pomegranate- 
rind  forms  irregular  curved  fragments,  which  are  about 
2 Mm.  inch)  thick,  externally  somewhat  tubercular 
and  rough,  of  a brownish  color  with  a yellowish  or  red- 
dish tint,  internally  of  a lighter  color,  marked  with 
meshes  indicating  the  depressions  caused  by  the  seeds. 

Some  of  the  pieces  are  crowned  by  the  thick,  tubular,  six- 
to  nine-toothed  persistent  calyx,  enclosing  the  remains  of 
the  style  aud  numerous  stamens.  They  break  with  a 
short  granular  fracture,  are  nearly  devoid  of  odor,  and 
possess  a strongly  astringent  taste.  Examined  by  Reuss, 
pomegranate-rind  was  found  to  contain  about  25  per  cent, 
tannin,  21  extractive,  and  34  gummy  matter.  Bowman 
(1869)  obtained  23.8  per  cent,  of  tannin,  which  gives  with 
ferric  salts  a blue-black  precipitate.  Fliicker  obtained  5.9  per  cent,  of  ash,  calculated  for  the 
rind  dried  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.),  also  some  sugar. 


Fruit  of  Punica  Granatuni  and  longitudinal 
section. 


Action  and  Uses. — The  bark  of  the  root  was  known  by  the  ancients  to  be  anthel- 
mintic, and  since  the  beginning  of  the  present  century  it  has  been  distinguished  as  an  effi- 
cient tseniafuge  and  tseniacide.  Its  specific  operation  upon  the  system  is  manifested  by  gid- 
diness, dimness  of  vision,  drowsiness,  faintness,  numbness  of  the  limbs,  and  even  convul- 
sions. The  bark  is  most  efficient  when  fresh.  It  is  best  administered  in  a decoction 
prepared  as  follows : Take  Gm.  64  (2  ounces)  of  the  fresh  bark,  hashed,  and  let  it  soak 
over  night  in  Gm.  750  (1?  pints)  of  water,  and  then  by  gently  boiling  reduce  it  to  a pint. 
Strain  off  the  liquor,  expressing  the  grounds,  and  give  it  lukewarm  in  three  doses,  at 
intervals  of  an  hour,  before  the  patient  has  broken  his  fast.  If  the  first  dose  is  vomited, 
the  others  should  still  be  administered,  and  will  generally  be  retained.  No  purgative  or 
other  treatment  need  precede  or  follow : it  is,  however,  more  prudent  to  administer  an 
ounce  of  castor  oil  as  soon  as  the  gurgling  and  colic  provoked  by  the  decoction  begin  to 
appear.  Bettelheim  used  a strong  decoction  made  with  10  ounces  of  the  root-bark  and 
2 pints  of  water,  of  which  from  $ pint  to  a pint  was  injected  through  an  oesophageal 
tube  into  the  patient’s  stomach.  This  method,  which  is  claimed  to  be  very  prompt  and 
efficient  in  its  action,  is  certainly  as  barbarous  as  it  is  superfluous.  The  bark  of  the 
trunk  and  of  the  branches  of  medium  size  has  recently  been  shown  to  equal  the  bark 
of  the  root  in  medicinal  virtues.  Indeed,  according  to  some  reports  (Berenger-Feraud), 
it  is  more  efficient  than  the  bark  of  the  root  in  expelling  the  unarmed  taenia.  It  may  be 
administered  it  the  same  manner  as  the  latter. 

It  has  been  suggested  that  the  superiority  of  fresh  over  dried  pomegranate-bark  is  due 
to  the  evaporation  from  the  latter  of  a portion  of  its  pelletierine  ; but  if  such  were  the 
reason,  it  would  be  difficult  to  understand  why  the  most  efficient  preparation  of  the  bark 
is  that  which  has  been  subjected  to  prolonged  boiling. 


794 


GRATIOLA. 


Pelletierine  was  first  used  in  the  form  of  a sulphate  as  a taeniacide  in  1878,  but  soon 
afterward  the  tannate  was  employed  in  the  dose  of  about  Gm.  0.40  (gr.  vij).  This 
quantity  was  given  originally  in  divided  doses,  but  later  in  a single  dose,  preceded  and  fol- 
lowed by  a draught  of  water  at  short  intervals,  the  patient  remaining  quiet  and  recum- 
bent to  repress  nausea.  At  the  end  of  about  two  hours  a purgative  was  administered. 
Dujardin-Beaumetz  prescribed  a mixture  of  Gm.  0.33  (gr.  v)  of  the  sulphate  in  a solution 
containing  Gm.  0.90  (14  grains)  of  tannin.  It  was  given  on  an  empty  stomach, 
and  followed  by  Gm.  32  (an  ounce)  of  compound  tincture  of  jalap.  After  comparing 
the  results  furnished  by  the  sulphate  and  the  tannate  of  pelletierine,  the  superiority  of 
the  latter  became  manifest.  Moreover,  it  is  tasteless,  and  incites  neither  repugnance,  nau- 
sea, nor  vomiting.  Berenger-Feraud,  who  made  a comparative  study  of  various  taenia 
medicines,  concluded  that  pomegranate  is  the  surest  and  best,  and  that  it  is  most  efficient 
under  the  form  of  pelletierine ; and  this  last,  it  may  be  added,  is  to  be  preferred  as  a 
tannate,  and  should  always  be  followed  by  a purgative  dose  of  castor  oil.  Owing  to  the 
slowness  of  its  action,  which  allowed  the  taeniae  to  recover  if  not  killed,  brisker  cathar- 
tics were  by  some  preferred,  as  the  sulphates  of  sodium  or  magnesium  or  jalap,  or  the 
infusion  of  senna  with  the  addition  of  the  saline  or  jalap.  The  “black  draught,”  or 
compound  infusion  of  senna,  is  very  suitable  for  this  purpose.  It  is  desirable  that  the 
patient  should  diet  very  strictly  for  a day,  taking  only  a moderate  amount  of  milk  in 
the  evening,  and  on  the  following  morning  the  medicine  should  be  administered  as  above 
indicated.  His  stools  should  be  received  in  a vessel  filled  with  warm  water,  to  facilitate 
the  passage  of  the  worm  without  breaking.  Generally,  it  is  discharged  in  the  form  of  a 
knotted  mass. 

Pomegranate-rind  is  an  astringent,  and,  although  possessed  of  some  anthelmintic  vir- 
tues, is  chiefly  employed  in  a gargle  for  relaxed  states  of  the  fauces  and  in  the  treatment 
of  chronic  diarrhoea , leucorrhcea , passive  haemorrhages,  and  cancerous  and  other  ulcers  of 
the  uterus  and  rectum.  The  dose  in  powder  is  Gm.  1.30-2.00  (gr.  xx-xxx)  ; a decoction 
prepared  with  Gm.  32  to  500  (§j  to  Oj)  may  be  given  in  the  dose  of  a fluidounce. 

GRATIOLA— Hedge-Hyssop. 

Herha  gratiolse. — Gratiole , Fr. ; Gnadenkraut , Gottesgnadenkraut , G. ; Graciola , Sp. 

Gratiola  officinalis,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord  — Scrophulariacese. 

Description. — The  stem  grows  from  a creeping  scaly  rhizome  to  the  height  of  15  to 
30  Cm.  (6  to  12  inches),  has  opposite,  sessile,  lanceolate,  finely  serrate,  three-nerved, 
smooth,  pale-green  leaves,  and  solitary  axillary  whitish  or  reddish  two-lipped  flowers,  with 
yellow  hairs  in  the  tube.  The  plant  is  inodorous  and  has  a very  bitter  somewhat  acrid 

taste.  i # . 

Constituents. — E.  Marchand  (1845)  obtained  the  white  crystalline  bitter  principle 
gratiolin , which  is  little  soluble  in  water  and  ether.  Walz  afterward  (1852,  etc.)  proved 
it  to  be  a glucoside,  splitting  under  the  influence  of  acids  into  sugar,  amorphous  gratiola- 
retin,  and  scaly  gratioletin.  Walz  also  isolated  the  reddish  amorphous  bitter  principle 
gratiosolin,  which  is  soluble  in  water  and  alcohol,  and  is  likewise  a glucoside.  Gratioloic 
acid  crystallizes  in  white  scales  of  a fatty  odor. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparation. — Extractum  gratiolad  is  the  inspissated  juice 
of  the  plant  freed  from  mucilaginous  matter  by  mixing  with  alcohol. 

Physiological  Action. — Experiments  upon  animals  and  observations  upon  man 
show  that  gratiola  is  a powerful  local  irritant,  and  that  when  taken  internally  it  causes 
retching,  vomiting,  colic,  purging,  even  bloody  stools,  and  inflammation  of  the  stomach 
and  bowels,  especially  of  the  rectum.  Given  by  enema,  it  has  occasioned  so  much  pelvic 
irritation  as  to  excite  nymphomania,  probably  in  predisposed  persons.  In  one  such  case 
it  is  reported  to  have  been  fatal.  In  smaller  (not  purgative)  doses  it  is  said  to  be 

diuretic.  . , . 

Action  and  Uses. — The  chief,  if  not  the  only,  use  to  which  gratiola  is  applied  in 
medicine  is  the  treatment  of  dropsy  by  hydragogue  purgation,  as  jalap,  colocynth,  and 
elaterium  are  employed.  As  it  tends  only  to  remove  the  dropsical  effusion,  and  not  its 
organic  causes  in  the  kidneys,  heart,  liver,  etc.,  the  main  point  to  be  regarded  is  that  the 
effects  of  the  medicine  should  not  be  so  violent  as  to  cause  the  patient’s  collapse.  Like 
other  drastics,  gratiola  has  been  used  in  the  treatment  of  insane  melancholy  and  mania , 
and  also  to  expel  intestinal  worms,  remove  jaundice , cure  amenorrhcea , etc.  To  expel 
ascarides  the  infusion  has  been  given  as  an  enema,  prepared  with  Gm.  2 in  Gm.  250 


GRINDELIA. 


795 


(3SS  to  Oss).  As  a drastic  purgative  the  dose  of  the  root  may  be  stated  at  Gm.  0.60— 
2.00  (gr.  x-xxx). 


GRINDELIA,  U.  S.—  Grindelia. 

Grindelia , Fr.  ; Grindelie , G. 

The  leaves  and  flowering  tops  of  Grindelia  robusta,  Nuttall , and  of  Grindelia  squar- 
rosa,  Dunal. 

Nat.  Ord. — Composite,  Asteroideae. 

Description. — The  genus  Grindelia  consists  of  herbaceous  or  suffruticose  perennials 
which  are  indigenous  to  the  western  part  of  North  America  and  to  Mexico.  They  are 
characterized  by  their  heads  being  many-flowered;  the  ray-florets  yellow,  ligulate,  and 
pistillate  ; the  disk-florets  yellow,  tubular,  five-toothed,  and  perfect ; the  involucre  hem- 
ispherical, with  the  scales  imbricated  in  many  rows,  often  with  squarrose  tips ; the  recep- 
tacle flat  alveolate;  and  the  akenes  smooth  and  crowned  with  a pappus  consisting  of 
a few  rigid  deciduous  awns  of  the  length  of  the  disk  florets. 

The  leaves  are  50  Mm.  (2  inches)  or  less  long,  brittle  when  dry,  vary  from  broadly 
spatulate  or  oblong  to  lanceolate,  are  sessile,  the  upper  ones  often  clasping,  with  a heart- 
shaped  base ; obtuse  at  the  apex,  more  or  less  sharply  serrate  on  the  margin,  often 
spinosely  toothed  or  even  laciniate  pinnatifid,  nearly  smooth  or  bearing  scattered 
glandular  hairs  of  a pale-green  color,  finely  dotted,  and  the  upper  surface  sometimes 
covered  with  patches  of  a glossy  resin.  The  involucre  is  about  12  Mm.  (J  inch)  broad, 
and  near  the  tips  of  the  scales  beset  with  short,  flattish,  many-celled  glands.  The  akenes 
are  from  one-  to  three-toothed  at  the  apex,  and  have  two  or  three,  rarely  five,  awns  for 
the  pappus.  The  odor  is  balsamic,  the  taste  pungently  aromatic  and  bitter.  The  variety 
latifolia  is  the  robust  and  broad-leaved  form,  the  leaves  being  often  7 to  10  Cm.  (3  to  4 
inches)  long.  The  variety  angustifolia  has  rather  fleshy  and  narrower  leaves,  the  upper 
ones  being  nearly  entire,  and  all  narrowed  at  the  base.  The  variety  (?)  rigida  is  more 
glutinous,  the  leaves  rigid  and  coriaceous,  some  of  them  sharply  serrate.  All  these 
plants  have  the  tips  of  the  involucral  scales  at  length  rigidly  spreading.  The  plant  is 
common  along  the  Pacific  coast  and  inland  on  the  mountains. 

Allied  Species. — Gr.  hirsutula,  Hooker  et  Arnott,  is  pubescent  or  tomentose,  the  stem  often 
reddish  or  purplish,  the  leaves  varying  between  spatulate,  oblong,  and  lanceolate,  the  upper  ones 
clasping.  It  is  met  with  along  the  coast  northward  to  Puget  Sound. 

Gr.  glutinosa,  Dunal , has  been  introduced  near  the  coast  of  California.  It  is  glabrous,  has 
the  leaves  rounded  at  the  apex,  the  involucral  scales  with  short  tips,  and  the  pappus  of  five  to 
eight  rigid  awns,  with  thin  serrulate  edges.  It  is  the  calancapatle  de  Pueblo  of  Mexico. 

These  plants  resemble  the  former  in  odor  and  taste,  and  appear  to  be  indiscriminately  col- 
lected, particularly  the  last  one. 

Constituents. — As  far  as  may  be  judged  from  the  sensible  properties,  these  species 
contain  volatile  oil,  a bitter  principle,  and  resin,  the  latter  not  unfrequently  coating  the 
involucre  and  leaves,  rendering  them  glutinous  ; hence  the  name  gum-plant  commonly 
applied  to  them.  The  principles  mentioned  seem  to  be  deserving  of  a thorough  investi- 
gation. Fischer  (1888)  isolated  a fixed  oil,  volatile  oil,  robustic  acid,  gr  indeline ; the  lat- 
ter is  crystalline,  bitter,  soluble  in  ether,  alcohol,  and  water,  and  yields  precipitates  with 
tannin,  potassium  iodohydrargyrate,  picric  acid,  potassium  dichromate,  iodopotassium 
iodide,  platinum  chloride,  and  gold  chloride. 

Action  and  Uses. — Grindelia  has  a persistent  acrid  and  bitter  taste,  and  excites 
the  secretion  of  saliva.  It  is  said  to  reduce  the  respiration-rate,  to  stimulate  the  brain 
and  the  spinal  cord,  and  subsequently  to  produce  a tendency  to  repose  or  sleep,  with 
impaired  power  of  the  legs.  In  experiments  on  frogs  it  appeared  to  arrest  breathing  and 
to  cause  engorgement  of  the  heart.  It  increases  the  secretion  of  urine  and  irritates  the 
kidneys.  The  herb  of  this  plant  is  reported  to  be  useful  in  whooping  cough  and  bron- 
chitis, and  of  singular  efficacy  in  asthma.  We  have  been  informed  of  several  cases  of 
asthma  occurring  in  aged  persons  in  which  half  a teaspoonful  of  the  fluid  extract 
afforded  almost  instantaneous  relief.  It  does  not,  however,  prevent  the  return  of  the 
paroxysms.  It  has  been  used  with  alleged  advantage  in  catarrh  of  the  bladder  and  of 
the  uterus , as  a dressing  for  burns  and  blisters , and  to  allay  the  pain  of  herpes  zoster.  The 
dose  for  a child  two  years  old  is  stated  to  be  Gm.  0.60  (gtt.  x)  of  the  fluid  extract  every 
two  hours.  It  is  added  that  no  unpleasant  symptoms  have  been  observed  after  large 
(loses.  It  is  alleged  that  the  tincture  or  fluid  extract  of  G.  squarrosa  has  been  used 
topically  with  advantage  in  cases  of  poisoning  by  Rhus  toxicodendron. 


796 


GUAIACI  LIGNUM.— GUAIACI  RESINA. 


Hysterionica  Baylahuen  owes  its  medicinal  qualities  to  the  resin  and  volatile  oil  it 
contains,  the  former  acting  chiefly  on  the  bowels  and  the  urinary  passages,  and  the 
latter  like  the  terebinthinates  and  their  products  upon  the  lungs.  It  is  said  to  possess 
an  advantage  over  these  medicines  that  it  does  not  disorder  the  stomach  and  bowels.  It 
has  been  found  useful  in  chronic  diarrhoea , and  especially  of  the  tuberculous  variety, 
and  in  chronic  cystitis.  The  tincture  by  its  stimulant  and  protective  action  has  served 
(like  tincture  of  benzoin)  as  a dressing  for  wounds  and  ulcers.  An  infusion  of  the  leaves 
and  twigs  (1  : 150)  has  been  advised,  and  also  a tincture  (100  : 500)  in  the  dose  of 
15-25  drops  (Bailie,  Bull,  de  Tlierap .,  cxvi.  160). 

GUAIACI  LIGNUM,  U.  S.,  Br.  -Guaiacum-Wood. 

Lignum  guajaci , P.  G. ; Lignum  sanctum  ( vel  henedictum , vel  vitae). — Lignum  vitae , E. ; 
Gayac , Fr.  Cod. ; Bois  de  gaiac , Fr. ; Guajakholz , Pockholz,  Franzosenholz,  G. ; Guayaco , 
Pcilo  santo , Sp. 

The  heart-wood  of  Guaiacum  officinale,  Linne , and  of  Guaiacum  sanctum,  Linne. 
Steph.  and  Church,  Med.  Bot .,  plate  90;  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 41. 

Nat.  Ord. — Zygophyllacese. 

Origin. — These  species  are  indigenous  to  the  West  Indian  islands  and  to  the  northern 
coast  of  South  America ; the  second  extends  also  to  Southern  Florida.  The  former  is 
about  12  M.  (40  feet)  high,  has  evergreen  pinnate  leaves,  with  two,  rarely  three,  pairs  of 
smooth  oval  and  obtuse  leaflets,  blue  flowers,  and  two-celled  obcordate  capsules,  each  cell 
containing  one  black  seed.  G.  sanctum  is  smaller,  has  leaves  with  four  or  five  pairs  of 
oblorig  mucronulate  leaflets,  and  a winged  four-  or  five-celled  fruit  writh  red  seeds.  The 
wood  of  both  species  consists  of  heavy  dark-colored  heart-wood,  surrounded  by  a yellow- 
ish zone  of  sap-wood,  which  is  generally  relatively  broader  in  the  second  species.  Guaiac- 
wood  became  known  in  Europe  early  in  the  sixteenth  century. 

Description. — The  heart-wood  is  of  a brown  color,  turning  olive-green  on  exposure, 
and  is  composed  of  alternately  darker  and  lighter  zones,  which  form  incomplete  circles 
and  resemble  annual  rings,  the  tissue  being  well  filled  with  resin.  The  central  pith  is 
quite  indistinct ; the  medullary  rays  are  very  fine,  the  vessels  scattered.  The  wood  is 
very  heavy,  of  specific  gravity  1.3,  hard,  tenacious,  and  splitting  very  irregularly,  caused 
by  the  much-interwoven  wood-bundles.  In  the  shops  it  is  usually  seen  in  the  form  of 
raspings  and  shavings,  which  should  be  free  or  nearly  so  from  the  lighter  sap-wood. 
Guaiacum-wood  has  a slight  aromatic  odor,  which  is  more  apparent  on  warming  or  rub- 
bing it,  and  a somewhat  acrid  taste.  The  shavings  acquire  a dark  blue-green  color  on 
being  moistened  with  nitric  acid  or  other  oxidizing  agents. 

Constituents. — The  wood  contains  from  20  to  25  per  cent,  of  resin,  which  is  the 
most  important  constituent,  and  yields  about  3 to  4 per  cent,  of  aqueous  extract. 
Fremy  and  Urbain  (1881)  found  in  the  wood,  besides  21  per  cent,  of  cellulose,  also  36 
per  cent,  of  vasculose,  which  is  not  soluble  in  ammoniacal  copper  solution,  even  after 
treatment  with  sulphuric  acid. 

Allied  Species. — Guaiacum  angustifolium,  Englemann,  s.  Porliera  angustifolia,  Gray , is  a 
small  tree  of  Southern  Texas  and  Mexico,  with  a hard,  heavy,  and  irregularly  splitting  wood  of 
a yellowish-brown  color,  and  used  like  the  preceding. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparations. — Species  lignorum,  P.  G. ; Species  ad  decoc- 
tum  lignorum. — Wood  tea,  E. ; Especes  (Bois)  sudorifiques.  Fr. ; Holzthee,  G. — Guaia- 
cum-wood  5 parts ; rest-harrow-root  (ononis),  3 parts ; peeled  liquorice-root,  sassafras- 
root,  each  1 part;  cut  and  mix. — P.  G.  Guaiac-wood,  sassafras-root,  sarsaparilla,  and 
china-root,  of  each  equal  parts. — F.  Cod. 

GUAIACI  RESINA,  U.  S.,  Br.— Guaiac. 

Resina  guajaci , Guaiacum. — Guaiacum  resin , E. ; Resine  de  gayac,  Fr.  Cod. ; Guajak- 
harz , G. ; Resina  de  guayaco,  Sp. 

The  resin  of  the  wood  of  Guaiacum  officinale,  Linne.  (See  Guaiaci  Lignum.) 

Origin. — Tile  resin  is  obtained  partly  as  a natural  exudation  or  from  incisions,  partly 
by  setting  fire  to  a billet  of  the  wood  which  has  been  grooved  or  pierced  lengthwise  on 
the  side,  the  resin  as  it  melts  running  from  the  opening. 

Description. — The  resin  is  in  separate  or  agglutinate  tears,  varying  in  size  from 
6 to  25  Mm.  (I  to  1 inch)  in  diameter,  or  more  generally  in  irregular  masses,  intermixed 


GUAIACI  RESINA. 


797 


with  fragments  of  wood  and  bark.  It  is  of  a greenish-  or  reddish-brown  color,  brittle, 
breaks  with  a somewhat  conchoidal  fracture  having  a glassy  lustre,  and  is  transparent  in 
thin  splinters.  It  yields  a whitish  powder  which  turns  rapidly  green  on  exposure  to  the 
air,  has  the  specific  gravity  1.2,  fuses  at  about  85°  C.  (185°  F.),  emitting  an  agreeable 
odor,  suggesting  that  of  vanilla,  and  at  a higher  temperature  gives  off  irritating  vapors. 
Its  taste  is  not  strong,  but  distinctly  acrid.  The  resin  is  soluble  in  caustic  potassa  and 
in  nearly  all  the  ordinary  solvents  for  resins,  except  carbon  disulphide,  benzene,  and  oil  of 
turpentine;  it  is  nearly  insoluble  in  benzin  and  fats.  The  solutions,  as  well  as  the  powder, 
are  colored  green  or  blue  by  nitric  acid,  chlorine,  ferric  chloride,  and  other  oxidizing 
agents ; the  same  color  is  produced  by  ozone  and  upon  the  inner  surface  of  the  paring 
of  a raw  potato.  Guaiacum  resin  should  be  soluble  in  alcohol,  leaving  but  a slight 
residue;  sometimes  it  is  very  impure,  containing  as  much  as  16  per  cent,  of  wood  and 
bark.  Its  alcoholic  solution  has  a slight  acid  reaction,  and  when  dissolved  in  solution 
of  potassa  or  soda  it  is  reprecipitated  on  the  addition  of  an  acid. 

Constituents. — On  boiling  guaiac  resin  with  milk  of  lime  gucdacic  acid  and  guaiac- 
yeUoio  are  dissolved.  If  the  residue  is  treated  with  hot  alcohol,  the  tincture  evaporated, 
and  this  residue  dissolved  in  hot  solution  of  caustic  soda  specific  gravity  1.3,  the  sodium 
salt  of  guaiaretic  acid  will  crystallize  on  cooling,  and  the  mother-liquor  contains  guaia- 
conic  acid  and  beta  resin , which  after  the  removal  of  the  alkali  are  separated  by  ether, 
in  which  the  former  only  is  soluble. 

Guaiacic  acid , C12H1606,  was  discovered  in  guaiac-wood  by  Thierry  (1841),  and  is  pres- 
ent in  very  minute  quantity  ; it  crystallizes  in  white  needles  and  is  sublimable  and  sol- 
uble in  water,  alcohol,  and  ether.  Guaiaretic  acid , C2oH2604,  discovered  by  Hlasiwetz 
(1859),  crystallizes  in  warts  and  scales,  is  of  a faint  vanilla  odor,  and  is  soluble  in 
alcohol,  ether,  chloroform,  benzene,  etc.,  and  sparingly  soluble  in  cold  water  and  ammonia. 
Guaiaconic  acid , C38H40O10,  discovered  by  Hadelich  (1862),  is  light-brown,  amorphous, 
insoluble  in  water,  benzene,  and  carbon  disulphide,  easily  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  chloro- 
form, and  acetic  acid ; it  acquires  a transient  blue  color  with  oxidizing  agents.  Hade- 
lich’s  guaiac-beta  resin  is  a red-brown  powder ; his  guaiac-yellow , which  was  first  noticed 
by  Pelletier,  has  a bitter  tastfe,  forms  pale-yellow  octahedra,  and  dissolves  in  oil  of  vitriol 
with  a handsome  blue  color  and  in  alkaline  liquids  with  a deep-yellow  color.  Hadelich 
obtained  about  70  per  cent,  of  guaiaconic  acid,  10  per  cent,  each  of  guaiaretic  acid  and 
beta  resin,  and  nearly  4 per  cent,  of  gum,  the  remainder  being  the  other  constituents, 
including  some  impurities  and  0.8  per  cent,  of  ash. 

On  subjecting  guaiaretic  acid  to  dry  distillation,  a thick  yellow  oil  is  obtained,  consist- 
ing of  guaiacol,  C:II802,  the  methylic  ether  of  pyrocatechin,  which  is  a colorless  oil  of 
agreeable  odor,  and  forms  with  alkalies  crystallizable  salts ; guaiacene , C5II80,  which  is  thin, 
oily,  of  a bitter  almond  odor  and  hot  aromatic  taste ; and  pyroguaiacin  ( pyroguaiacol ), 
C19H2203,  which  crystallizes  in  inodorous  and  tasteless  scales.  H.  Wiesner  (1880)  gives 
to  the  last-named  compound  the  formula  C18H1803,  and  states  that  while  it  dissolves 
in  sulphuric  acid  with  a dark-blue  color,  its  alcoholic  solution  gives  no  reaction  with  ferric 
chloride,  contrary  to  the  observation  of  Hlasiwetz,  who  found  it  to  be  colored  green  by 
ferric  chloride,  and  regarded  the  similar  reaction  of  the  official  resin  to  be  probably  due 
to  this  compound.  By  dry  distillation  guaiac  resin  yields  creosol , C8H10O2,  in  addition  to 
the  decomposition  product  mentioned  ; it  and  the  allied  guaiacol  are  colored  green  by  caus- 
tic alkalies  and  blue  by  alkaline  earths  ; both  have  been  observed  in  creosote.  See  page 
547.)  On  distilling  pyroguaiacin  with  zinc-dust,  Wiesner  obtained  guaiene , C12H12,  in 
bluish  fluorescing  scales.  Boetsch  (1880)  observed  this  to  melt  near  98°  C.  (208.4°  F.), 
and  to  dissolve  in  sulphuric  acid  with  a green  color.  He  obtained  this  compound  also 
from  the  resin  by  treatment  with  zinc-dust,  and  in  addition  thereto  50  per  cent,  of  creo- 
sol and  30  per  cent,  of  toluene,  xylene,  and  pseudocumene.  Hirschsohn  (1877)  found 
guaiacum  resin  to  be  free  from  cinnamic  acid,  umbelliferon,  sulphur,  and  nitrogenated 
compounds. 

Tests. — In  addition  to  the  properties  mentioned  above,  Hirschsohn  states  that  guaia- 
cum  resin  should  yield  to  petroleum  benzin  not  more  than  2 to  4 per  cent,  of  its  weight ; 
colophony  and  damar  dissolve  to  the  extent  of  77  to  90  per  cent.  The  so-called  Peruvian 
guaiac  resin , of  undetermined  origin,  has  an  odor  resembling  a mixture  of  rue  and 
anise,  and  about  42  per  cent  of  it  is  soluble  in  benzin.  The  alcoholic  solution  of 
guaiacum  resin  is  precipitated  by  lead  acetate  (difference  from  carana  resin),  and  with 
potassa  solution  gives  a precipitate  easily  soluble  in  excess  of  the  alkali  (difference  from 
colophony). 

Action  and  Uses. — Guaiac  is  most  renowned  for  the  cure  of  constitutional  syphilis , 


798 


GUAIACOLUM. 


and  the  records  of  its  use  during  nearly  three  hundred  years  were  accepted  as  true  until 
the  scepticism  of  the  nineteenth  century  condemned  it.  The  vain  and  frivolous  methods 
of  employing  it  which  prevailed  among  modern  physicians  fully  account  for  its  want  of 
success  in  their  hands.  While  it  was  in  vogue  the  treatment  by  it  was  serious.  The 
patient  was  obliged  to  observe  a very  strict  regimen,  to  drink  enormous  quantities  of  a 
stronger  and  of  a weaker  decoction  of  the  wood,  to  live  upon  a very  sparing  and  simple 
diet,  and  in  every  manner  to  promote  perspiration.  The  question  of  its  efficiency  has, 
however,  possessed  a very  subordinate  interest  since  the  introduction  of  iodide  of  potas- 
sium. Like  other  vascular  stimulants,  guaiac  resin  has  been  found  efficient  in  promoting 
menstruation  in  all  atonic  conditions  of  the  uterine  system,  and  hence  in  dysmenorrhmi 
as  well  as  in  amenorrhoea  of  that  origin.  For  the  same  reason,  doubtless,  it  is  a valuable 
remedy  for  chronic  muscular  rheumatism.  For  these  purposes  the  ammoniated  tincture 
is  to  be  preferred.  In  simple  tonsillitis  and  in  diphtheria  it  is  alleged  to  be  very  effica- 
cious, but  the  former  disease  often  gets  well  spontaneously,  and  the  evidence  of  the 
value  of  guaiac  in  the  latter  is  inconclusive.  Rheumatic  pharyngitis , which  is  often 
confounded  with  tonsillitis,  may  very  possibly  be  palliated  by  guaiac. 

Guaiacum-wood  is  prescribed  only  in  decoction  ( Pharm . 1870),  simple  or  compound, 
of  which  the  latter  is  the  more  efficient.  The  resin  may  be  given  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.60- 
2.00  (gr.  x-xxx).  The  guaiac  mixture  (Br.  P.)  is  a convenient  form  for  its  adminis- 
tration. 

When  the  red  coloring  matter  of  the  blood  is  brought  into  contact  first  with  tincture 
of  guaiac,  and  then  with  peroxide  of  hydrogen,  the  guaiac  is  instantly  turned  blue.  On 
testing  suspected  stains  in  this  manner  “ it  will  be  safe  to  say  that  if  there  is  no  bluing 
of  the  guaiac  resin  in  the  presence  of  the  peroxide,  the  mark  or  stain  is  not  owing  to 
blood  ” (Taylor). 

Guaiacol  has  been  used  as  a substitute  for  creasote  in  the  treatment  of  phthisis  by 
Schiiller,  Sahli  ( Gentralhl.  f Therap .,  v.  691),  Horner  (ibid.,  vi.  338),  Schetelig  (ibid., 
vii.  539  ; Iherap.  Monatshefte,  iii.  400),  and  some  others,  who  claim  for  it  virtues  which 
are  also  attributed  to  creasote  in  this  disease — i.  e.  of  lessening  the  fever,  cough,  sputa, 
and,  in  general,  the  progress  of  decline,  and  also  of  correcting  the  diarrhoeal  tendency. 
Sahli  used  it  as  follows:  R Guaiacol,  Gm.  1-2;  water,  Gm.  180;  spirit  of  wine,  Gm. 
20.  M.  S.-f^j-f^iv  in  a glass  of  water  after  meals.  Schetelig  used  guaiacol  hypodermi- 
cally, in  the  daily  dose  of  Gm.  0.5-1  (grs.  7-15).  Others  have  preferred,  as  less  irritat- 
ing, benzoate  or  carbonate  of  guaiacol  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.20-0.40  (gr.  iij-vj).  (Com- 
pare Jacobi,  Proceedings  of  Amer.  Clima.tolog . Assoc.,  1892.) 

GUAIACOLUM.-Guaiacol. 

Methyl-pyrocatechin  (catechol  monometliyl  ether'). 

Formula  C7H802=C6H40H0CH3,  Molecular  weight,  123.71. 

Source. — Beechwood  creosote  consists  chiefly  of  guaiacol,  creosol,  and  cresols,  as 
stated  elsewhere,  and  of  these  guaiacol  is  present  to  the  extent  of  from  60  to  90  per  cent. 

Preparation. — Crude  guaiacol  is  obtained  by  fractional  distillation  of  beechwood-tar 
creosote,  that  portion  passing  over  between  200°  and  205°  C.  (392° — 401°  F.)  being 
collected ; this  is  treated  with  ammonia  to  remove  acid  compounds,  and  then  again  frac- 
tionated. The  lower  boiling  fraction  is  dissolved  in  ether  and  treated  with  a concentrated 
alcoholic  solution  of  potassa,  which  causes  the  separation  of  potassium-guaiacol,  the  latter 
being  insoluble  in  ether.  After  thorough  washing  with  ether  the  salt  is  crystallized 
from  alcohol,  and  decomposed  by  treatment  with  dilute  sulphuric  acid ; the  guaiacol  thus 
set  free  is  again  rectified. 

Guaiacol  is  rarely  met  with  absolutely  pure  ; the  latter  is  obtained  from  benzoylguaiacol 
(which  has  been  repeatedly  recrystallized)  by  saponification  with  alcoholic  potassa,  subse- 
quent washing,  drying,  and  rectifying.  The  so-called  “ absolute  guaiacol  ” of  commerce 
frequently  contains  notable  quantities  of  cresols. 

Properties  and  Tests. — Pure  guaiacol  is  a colorless,  slightly  refractive  liquid  of 
strongly  aromatic  odor.  Its  specific  gravity  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  is  1.117  (Fischer), 
(1.133,  Helbing),  and  its  boiling  point  at  200°-202°  C.  (392°-395.6°  F.)  (Fischer). 
(206°-207°  C.  Helbing) ; it  requires  200  parts  of  water  (Fischer)  (85  parts,  Helbing) 
for  solution,  but  is  readily  soluble  in  alcohol  and  ether.  Guaiacol  is  soluble  in  solutions 
of  sodium  and  potassium  hydroxides,  forming  compounds  known  as  sodium- and  potassium- 
guaiacol  (C6H4OCH3Na  and  C6H4OCH3K),  which,  however,  are  unstable  and  decomposed, 
even  upon  addition  of  much  water.  If  a trace  of  ferric  chloride  is  added  to  an  alcoholic 


GUATACOLUM. 


799 


solution  of  guaiacol,  a blue  color  is  developed,  which  changes  to  emerald-green  upon  the 
addition  of  more  ferric  chloride ; this  is  a characteristic  reaction.  Shaken  with  twice  its 
volume  of  benzene  at  20°  C.  (68°  F.),  pure  guaiacol  will  separate  rapidly  and  completely, 
whereas  the  impure  article  forms  a clear  solution.  If  2 Cc.  of  guaiacol  be  added  to  2 
Cc.  of  sodium  hydroxide  solution  of  1.30  sp.  grav.,  the  mixture  becomes  heated,  and 
when  cooled  to  normal  temperature  congeals  to  a white  crystalline  mass  in  case  the 
guaiacol  is  pure,  but  remains  fluid  if  it  is  impure  (important  test).  With  concentrated 
sulphuric  acid  perfectly  pure  guaiacol  produces  a yellow  coloration  which  changes  to 
cherry-red  upon  addition  of  a very  small  quantity  of  acetone ; this  same  red  color  is  pro- 
duced without  acetone  if  only  a trace  of  creosote  is  present  (Bougartz). 

The  following  derivatives  of  guaiacol  have  been  introduced  : 

Guaiacol  benzoate,  Benzosol,  Benzoyl-guaiacol.  CeH40IIC6H5C02.  When  potas- 
sium-guaiacol,  prepared  by  adding  to  an  alcoholic  solution  of  guaiacol  the  necessary 
quantity  of  potassium  hydroxide,  is  heated  on  a water-bath  with  benzoyl-chloride, 
benzoyl-guaiacol  is  formed,  together  with  potassium  chloride ; the  former  is  purified  by 
recrystallization  from  alcohol.  It  is  a colorless,  odorless,  and  tasteless  crystalline  powder, 
almost  insoluble  in  water,  but  readily  soluble  in  ether,  chloroform  and  hot  alcohol.  It 
melts  at  56°  C.  (Fischer),  45°  C.  (Helbing),  sulphuric  acid  colors  the  salt  lemon-yellow, 
but  ferric  chloride  does  not  produce  the  characteristic  color  reaction  in  an  alcoholic  solu- 
tion. The  dose  is  1-10  Gm.  (15-150  grains)  daily. 

Guaiacol  carbonate.  (C6H40CH3)2C02.  This  compound  is  prepared  by  slowly 
passing  1 molecule  of  phosgene  gas,  COCl2  (carbonyl  chloride),  into  2 molecules  of 
guaiacol  previously  dissolved  in  soda  solution,  when  sodium  chloride  and  guaiacol  car- 
bonate will  be  formed : the  latter  is  washed  with  soda  solution  and  crystallized  from 
alcohol.  It  is  a white  neutral  crystalline  powder,  nearly  void  of  odor  and  taste,  insoluble 
in  water,  slightly  soluble  in  cold,  but  readily  in  hot  alcohol,  also  in  ether,  chloroform,  and 
benzene,  and  sparingly  soluble  in  glycerin  and  fixed  oils.  Its  melting-point  is  78°-84° 
C.  (Fischer),  86°-90°  C.  (Helbing).  The  dose  of  guaiacol  carbonate  is  gradually 
increased  from  0.2-0. 5 Gm.  (3-71  grains)  daily  to  2-4  Gm.  (30-60  grains). 

Guaiacol  cinnamate,  Styracol,  Cinnamyl-guaiacol.  C6H5.CH:CH.C02C6H40CH3. 
If  equal  molecular  weights  of  guaiacol  and  cinnamyl-chloride  are  brought  together  at 
ordinary  temperature,  and  after  two  hours  heated  for  some  time  on  the  water-bath,  hydro- 
chloric acid  is  formed  and  also  cinnamyl-guaiacol.  The  salt  is  crystallized  from  boiling 
alcohol.  It  occurs  as  colorless  needle-shaped  crystals  which  melt  at  130°  C.  and  are 
practically  insoluble  in  water. 

Guaiacol  di-iodide  was  first  proposed  by  Vicario  (1892)  as  a pulmonary  antiseptic. 
It  is  obtained  when  a solution  of  iodine  in  potassium  iodide  is  added  to  an  aqueous  solu- 
tion of  sodium-guaiacol  as  long  as  precipitation  continues  ; it  is  of  a reddish-brown  color, 
possessing  the  odor  of  iodine,  melts  on  the  water-bath,  is  soluble  in  alcohol  and  fixed  oils, 
and  is  readily  decomposable. 

Guaiacol  salicylate,  Guaiacol-salol,  Salicyl-guaiacol.  C6H40HC02.C6H40CH3. 
This  compound  is  analogous  to  salol,  and  is  the  result  of  the  action  of  phosphorus 
oxychloride  on  a mixture  of  sodium-guaiacol  and  salicylate,  when  guaiacol  salicylate, 
sodium  chloride,  and  sodium  phosphite  are  formed.  It  is  a white  crystalline  odorless 
and  tasteless  powder,  insoluble  in  water,  but  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  and  chloroform. 
It  melts  at  65°  C.  An  alcoholic  solution  of  the  salt  is  colored  wine-red  by  ferric  chloride. 
The  dose  is  the  same  as  that  of  the  benzoate  (see  above). 

Guaiacolcarbonic  acid,  Methoxysalicylic  acid.  C6H30H0CH3.C02H-f-2H20.  It 
is  prepared  by  a patented  process  in  a manner  somewhat  similar  to  that  of  the  salicylic- 
acid  manufacture ; carbon  dioxide  is  made  to  act  on  sodium-guaiacol  previously  heated, 
whereby  guaiacol-sodium  carbonate  is  formed ; continued  heating  converts  this  into 
sodium  guaiacol-carbonate,  from  which  the  free  acid  is  obtained  by  acidifying  with  hydro- 
chloric acid,  and  finally  recrystallizing  from  hot  water  or  diluted  alcohol.  It  is  a white, 
odorless  crystalline  powder  of  a bitter  taste,  difficultly  soluble  in  cold,  but  readily  in  hot 
water,  also  in  alcohol  and  ether,  and  likewise  in  a solution  of  sodium  bicarbonate.  The 
anhydrous  acid  melts  at  148°— 150°  C.  A cold  aqueous  solution  of  the  acid  is  colored 
by  ferric  chloride  solution. 

Action  and  Uses. — Guaiacol  and  the  compounds  into  which  it  enters,  including  the 
carbonate , iodide,  salicylate , and  cinnamate  (styracol),  and  benzosol , have,  since  1891,  been 
a good  deal  employed  in  the  treatment  of  pulmonary  phthisis  and  other  wasting  forms  of 
tuberculosis.  Its  effects  have  been  mainly  such  as  were  long  attributed  to  the  prepara- 
tions of  tar — i.  e.  a diminution  of  the  bronchitic  and  intestinal  disorders  proper  to  con- 


800 


G UANO.—G  U ARANA. 


sumption  of  the  lungs — viz.  cough,  expectoration,  sweating,  and  diarrhoea.  Styracol  has 
been  especially  employed  in  the  treatment  of  gleet , vesical  catarrh , and  chronic  diarrhoea. 
Some  have  dared  to  inject  these  compounds  into  pulmonary  cavities  through  the  chest- 
walls.  Guaiacol  carbonate  has  been  given  in  gradually  increasing  doses  from  Gm.  0.2 
(gr.  £)  until  Gm.  2 (gr.  xxx),  and  then  Gm.  7 (gr.  xc),  a day  were  reached. 

GUANO.-Guano. 

Origin. — Guano  consists  of  the  partially-decomposed  excrements  of  the  penguin  and 
other  sea-birds,  which  congregate  in  large  numbers  on  the  barren  and  uninhabited  islands 
on  the  western  coast  of  South  America,  in  Western  Africa,  and  Australia.  It  is  princi- 
pally exported  from  the  islands  oft’  the  coast  of  Peru  and  Bolivia. 

Description. — It  is  in  the  form  of  crystalline  or  amorphous  masses,  or  more  fre- 
quently of  an  irregular  powder,  having  a grayish  or  pale-brown  color  and  an  offensive, 
usually  ammoniacal,  odor.  Its  spec.  grav.  is  about  1.64;  its  reaction  is  mostly  alkaline, 
though  occasionally  acid.  It  contains  hygroscopic  water  varying  between  6 and  20  per 
cent.,  which  is  expelled  by  the  heat  of  a water-batli;  when  exposed  to  a higher  tempera- 
ture it  blackens  and  burns,  leaving  a white  ash  varying  in  amount  between  25  and  38  per 
cent. 

Constituents. — Guano  contains,  besides  the  moisture,  25  to  52  per  cent,  of 
organic  matter  and  ammonium  salts,  19  to  42  per  cent,  of  tricalcic  phosphate,  and  5 
to  15  per  cent,  of  alkaline  salts;  the  nitrogen  varies  in  amount  from  7 to  15  per  cent. 
The  organic  constituents  of  guano  are  chiefly  uric  acid , ammonium  urate , and  various 
oxalates.  The  chief  inorganic  constituents  are  phosphates  of  calcium,  magnesium,  and 
the  alkalies,  some  sulphates,  chlorides,  and  a very  little  sand ; occasionally  also  ammo- 
nium carbonate.  B.  Unger  (1845)  discovered  in  guano  the  alkaloid  guanine , C5H5N50, 
which  has  since  been  proved  to  exist  also  in  the  pancreatic  juice  of  mammals;  it  forms  a 
white  crystalline  powder  , which  is  insoluble  in  water,  alcohol,  ether,  and  ammonia,  but 
soluble  in  acids  and  in  potassa  solution. 

In  estimating  the  value  of  guano  as  a manure  the  amount  of  the  following  constituents, 
besides  moisture  and  ash,  is  determined  : ready-formed  ammonia  (present  as  ammonium 
salts),  latent  ammonia  (generated  in  the  soil  from  nitrogenous  compounds),  uric  acid,  and 
phosphates. 

Action  and  Uses. — Under  the  singular  delusion  that  the  ammonia  in  guano  pos- 
sesses some  special  mode  of  action  different  from  that  of  officinal  ammonium  compounds, 
this  substance,  mixed  with  potter’s  clay,  was  used  as  a dressing  for  several  diseases  of  the 
skin,  and  afterward  in  baths  and  lotions.  But  it  speedily  exhibited  the  irritating  effects 
proper  to  the  salts  of  ammonia  in  common  use,  aud  is  now  quite  abandoned.  It  will 
hardly  be  believed  that  this  bird-dung  should  have  been  introduced  into  a syrup  and 
administered  internally. 


GUARANA,  V.  8.— Guarana. 

Pasta  guarang. — Guarana , Fr. ; G.,  Sp. 

A dried  paste  chiefly  consisting  of  the  crushed  and  pounded  seeds  of  Paullinia  cupana, 
Kunth , s.  P.  sorbilis  Martins.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 67. 

Nat.  Ord. — Sapindacese. 

Origin. — Paullinia  cupana  is  a climbing  shrub  with  pinnate  leaves  composed  of  five 
oval-oblong  toothed  leaflets,  small  flowers  in  narrow  spicate  panicles,  and  pyriform  beaked 
capsules  containing  one  to  three  shiny  blackish-brown  subglobular  seeds.  It  is  indi- 
genous to  the  northern  and  western  provinces  of  Brazil. 

Preparation. — The  dry  seeds  are  powdered,  moistened  by  water  or  by  exposure  to 
the. dew,  and  then  kneaded  into  a kind  of  stiff  paste,  which  is  formed  into  globular  or 
cylindrical  masses ; these  are  well  dried  near  a fire  or  by  exposure  to  the  sun. 

Description. — Guarana  is  met  with  in  subglobular,  cylindrical,  or  elliptic  cakes 

which  have  an  uneven  surface,  are  hard,  of  a reddish-brown  color,  somewhat  lighter  inter- 
nally, and  breaking  with  an  uneven,  slightly  glossy  fracture,  showing  angular  fragments 
of  seeds  with  a brittle,  blackish-brown  tegument  and  with  thickish  white  cotyledons.  It 
has  a peculiar  slight  chocolate-like  odor  and  an  astringent  and  bitter  taste.  It  is  partly 
soluble  in  water  and  in  alcohol. 

Constituents. — Martius  found  guarana  to  contain  starch,  gum,  a greenish  fat,  tan- 
nin which  precipitates  iron  salts  dark-green,  and  a crystalline  substance,  guaranine,  whieli 


GUTTA-PERCHA. 


801 


was  afterward  proved  to  be  identical  with  caffeine  (p.  342)  by  Martius  and  by  Berthemot 
and  Dechastelus  (1840).  The  latter  obtained  4 per  cent.,  Stenhouse  5.07  per  cent.,  and 
Feemster  (1882)  between  3.9  and  5 per  cent.,  of  caffeine.  Saponin  and  volatile  oil  are 
likewise  present  in  guarana.  The  alkaloid  is  best  obtained,  according  to  Dr.  F.  V.  Greene 
(1877),  by  Prof.  Wayne’s  process,  by  prolonged  boiling  with  litharge;  and  Mr.  Feemster 
found  it  of  advantage  to  add  near  the  end  of  the  process  a few  drops  of  lead  subacetate, 
which  facilitates  the  settling  of  the  insoluble  matter.  The  tannin,  paullinitannic  acid , 
was  shown  by  Dr.  Greene  to  give  precipitates  with  ferric  salts  (green,  brown),  gelatin, 
most  alkaloidal  salts,  and  barium  salts,  to  give  no  precipitate  with  tartar  emetic  or  copper 
sulphate,  and  to  reduce  salts  of  silver  and  gold. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  curative  powers  of  guarana  at  first  appeared  to  be  not 
less  wonderful  than  those  of  many  other  new  remedies.  It  was  a specific  for  diarrhoea 
( Amer . Jour.  Phar.,  lxii.  69)  and  dysentery,  gonorrhoea,  leucorrhoea,  and  passive  haem- 
orrhages, was  lauded  as  a stomachic  tonic,  and  was  even  put  forward  as  remarkably  effi- 
cacious in  lumbago.  Of  all  these  virtues  of  the  drug  none  survive,  and  the  only  affec- 
tion in  which  it  continues  to  be  found  useful  is  one  which  its  congeners,  tea  (and  espe- 
cially green  tea)  and  coffee,  have  never  lost  the  reputation  of  relieving — headache.  The 
particular  forms  of  headache  in  which  it  is  useful  are  the  nervous  sick  headache  which 
recurs  frequently  in  the  same  person,  and  especially  in  females  at  the  menstrual  periods, 
and  that  which  follows  a debauch,  when  the  head  throbs  and  the  eyes  are  bloodshot. 
Like  the  other  more  popular  remedies,  guarana  gradually  loses  its  power  over  such 
attacks,  and  even  appears  to  render  them  more  frequent  and  severe.  It  may  be  admin- 
istered in  substance  in  the  dose  of  from  Gm.  1-4  (gr.  xv-lx)  in  powder,  but  in  this  form 
it  is  repulsive,  and  the  doses  mentioned  are  better  given  in  infusion.  The  most  efficient 
preparation  is,  however,  the  alcoholic  extract  dissolved  in  alcohol  to  form  a tincture  in 
the  proportion  of  1 part  to  30.  From  Gm.  0.10—0.30  (gr.  ij— v)  of  the  extract  may  be 
given  at  a dose.  A fluid  extract,  which  is  officinal,  and  a syrup,  have  been  made,  and 
are  convenient  forms  for  administration. 


GUTTA-PERCHA,  Br.,  B.  G.— Gutta-Percha. 

Gutta-percha  depurata , Gutta-taban , Gummi plasticum. — Gutta-percha , Fr.,  G. 

The  concrete  exudation,  obtained  by  incisions,  of  Isonandra  (Dichopsis,  Bentley)  Gutta, 
Hooker.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 167. 

Nat.  Ord. — Sapotacae. 

Origin  and  Preparation. — The  taban  is  a stately  tree,  12-18  M.  (40  to  60  feet) 
high,  with  few  branches,  with  evergreen  oblong  or  obovate,  entire,  glossy,  and  under- 
neath brownish-yellow  scaly  leaves,  and  small  white  flowers  aggregated  in  little  clusters 
near  the  top  of  the  branches.  It  is  common  in  jungles  of  the  Malay  peninsula  and  of 
the  Malayan  Archipelago ; it  is  now  extinct  in  Singapore,  having  been  destroyed  in  the 
collection  of  the  juice.  To  obtain  the  gutta-percha  the  tree  is  felled  and  circular  incisions 
are  made  through  the  bark  at  distances  of  15—30  Cm.  (6  to  12  inches)  along  the  whole 
trunk,  from  which  the  milky  juice  slowly  exudes  and  hardens  on  exposure.  The  yield 
from  one  tree  is  stated  to  be  from  6 to  10  pounds;  others  claim  a yield  of  over  20 
pounds.  Several  other  sapotaceous  trees  of  the  genera  Dichopsis,  Payena,  and  Cerato- 
phorus  yield  similar  products. 

Description. — Gutta-percha  is  grayish  or  yellowish,  frequently  with  red-brown 
streaks  from  fragments  of  bark  and  other  impurities.  It  is  hard  and  rather  leathery  or 
horny,  in  thin  pieces  somewhat  flexible,  is  readily  cut  with  the  knife,  between  45°  and 
60°  C.  (113°  to  140°  F.)  sufficiently  soft  to  be  rolled  into  sheets,  quite  plastic  at  65°  C. 
(149°  F.),  and  very  soft  at  the  temperature  of  boiling  water.  Its  specific  gravity  is 
about  0.98,  but  it  is  heavier  than  water  after  the  removal  of  all  air-cavities  (Payen).  It 
is  insoluble  in  water,  alcohol,  acids,  alkalies,  and  fixed  oils,  dissolves  in  boiling  ether, 
chloroform,  benzene,  coal-tar  oils,  carbon  disulphide,  and  oil  of  turpentine  ; on  evaporating 
these  solutions  it  is  left  behind  with  its  original  properties.  It  is  purified  for  dental  and 
other  purposes  by  agitating  its  solution  with  gypsum.  If  purified  by  treatment  with 
water  and  hydrochloric  acid,  and  then  repeatedly  dissolved  in  boiling  ether  and  washed 
with  cold  ether  and  alcohol,  a fine  white  powder  is  obtained  of  the  composition  C20H32, 
which  is  probably  the  composition  of  the  recent  juice  (Baumhauer,  1859).  It  absorbs 
and  combines  with  oxygen  from  the  air,  yielding  white  crystalline  resin,  Payen’s  albane , 
bjoH^O,  and  yellow  amorphous  jluavd,  C20H32O2,  which  are  contained  in  commercial  gutta- 
percha sometimes  to  the  amount  of  20  per  cent.  Subjected  to  dry  distillation,  various 
51 


802 


GYNOCARDIA. 


gases,  water,  and  volatile  acids  are  obtained,  and  two  oils,  one  yellow,  the  other  red-brown, 
both  of  the  composition  C10H,6. 

Pure  gutta-percha  is  inodorous  and  tasteless ; ignited,  it  burns  with  a bright  flame. 
Its  mixture  with  caoutchouc  is  readily  vulcanized,  and  after  the  incorporation  of  insol- 
uble earthy  or  metallic  compounds  is  largely  used  in  the  preparation  of  various  instru- 
ments. 

Percha  lamellata,  P.  G. — Gutta-percha  paper — is  in  thin,  brown,  translucent  sheets, 
which  are  prepared  by  softening  gutta-percha  in  hot  water  and  pressing  it  between 
rollers. 

Allied  Products. — Murton  (1878)  describes  four  additional  guttas  : 

Gutta-soosoo  of  Perak  is  firmer  than  gutta-taban,  and  contains  a little  oil,  but  gutta-soosoo  of 
Borneo  is  a caoutchouc. 

Gutta-rambong  of  Perak  is  reddish-brown,  closely  resembles  caoutchouc,  and  is  probably 
obtained  from  the  milk-juice  of  the  roots  of  Ficus  elastica. 

Gutta-singgarip  seems  to  be  produced  from  a woody  apocynaceous  climber,  and  enters  com- 
merce as  a soft,  spongy,  and  wet  mass. 

Gutta-putih  or  Gutta-sundek  comes  from  a species  of  Dichopsis,  having  shorter  and  broader 
leaves  than  the  taban  tree,  and  is  whiter  and  more  spongy  than  gutta-percha. 

Other  similar  products  from  different  species  of  Ficus  and  Isonandra  are  used  in  the  Malayan 
islands  for  adulterating  gutta-percha. 

Balata — in  Central  America  called  chicle , tuno  gum , and  leche  de  popa — is  the  milky  exuda- 
tion of  Mimusops  globosa,  Gaertner  (Mimusops  Balata,  Crueger ; Achras  Balata,  Aublet : Sapota 
Muelleri,  Belkrode),  a tree  called  bully  tree,  growing  on  the  banks  of  the  Orinoco  and  Amazon 
Bivers.  It  resembles  gutta-percha,  becomes  soft  at  50°  C.  (122°  F.),  melts  at  150°  C.  (302°  F.),  is 
soluble  in  benzene,  carbon  disulphide,  and  hot  oil  of  turpentine,  and  partly  soluble  in  absolute 
alcohol  and  ether.  It  is  not  acted  on  by  alkalies  or  hydrochloric  acid,  but  is  decomposed  by  strong 
nitric  and  sulphuric  acids.  It  has  been  used  as  an  addition  to  plasters. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  qualities  which  render  this  substance  of  value  in  the 
surgical  and  mechanical  treatment  of  diseases  are — its  flexibility  when  warm,  its  firm- 
ness at  ordinary  temperatures,  and  its  solubility  in  menstrua  which  do  not  alter  its 
essential  qualities.  The  facility  with  which  it  is  bent  and  moulded  when  warm  adapts 
it  to  making  splints,  whose  size,  shape,  and  weight  can  readily  be  changed.  It  has  in  a 
great  degree  supplanted  the  old  and  costly  carved  splint,  to  which,  indeed,  it  is  in  all 
respects  superior.  Its  lightness,  firmness,  smoothness,  and  unalterable  character  render 
it  admirably  adapted  for  the  manufacture  of  syringes,  specula,  bougies,  pessaries,  stetho- 
scopes, etc.  Like  collodion,  the  solution  of  gutta-percha  in  bisulphide  of  carbon  or  in 
chloroform  may  be  used  to  retain  the  edges  of  incised  wounds  in  apposition,  and  also  as 
a protective  of  the  abraded  shin  against  mechanical  injury  or  the  absorption  of  poisons. 
In  this  manner  it  has  been  used  as  a coating  for  sore  nipples.  The  solution  in  chloro- 
form, which  is  officinal,  is  a very  convenient  agent  for  protecting  portions  of  the  skin 
from  the  air.  while  it  exerts  a slight  degree  of  compression  which  is  modified  by  the 
flexibility  of  the  film  formed  by  the  dried  solution.  It  has  been  used  with  more  or  less 
advantage  in  the  treatment  of  lepra  and  psoriasis , herpes  tonsurans , eczema  marginatum. 
and  prurigo , to  prevent  pitting  in  small-pox,  and  to  limit  the  efflorescence  in  erysipelas. 
This  method  has  been  recommended  by  numerous  dermatologists,  and  among  them 
Auspitz  in  Germany  and  Morrow  in  this  country  ( Wiener  med.  Wochenschrift , 1883 ; 
Med.  News,  xliv.  257).  The  solution  generally  used  by  the  former  is  one  part  of 
gutta  percha  to  ten  of  chloroform,  which  corresponds  nearly  to  Liquor  gutta-perehae  U. 
S.  P.  (1880)  Its  advantages  are  stated  to  be  that  it  excludes  air  from  the  diseased  skin, 
prevents  crusts  from  forming,  which  hinder  medicinal  applications,  lessens  the  secretions, 
and  limits  to  the  affected  part  the  action  of  the  agent  employed.  It  is  not  easily 
removed  by  the  friction  of  clothing  or  by  muscular  action.  It  is,  also,  unirritating  and 
easily  prepared  for  use.  It  seems  to  be  the  best  agent  for  concentrating  and  limiting  the 
action  of  chrysarobin.  Gutta-percha  is  also  found  to  be  a convenient  vehicle  with  which 
to  incorporate  certain  caustics,  as  potassa  and  chloride  of  zinc,  for  the  purpose  of  limit- 
ing and  mitigating  their  action. 

GYNOCARDIA. — Chaulmugra. 

The  seed  of  Gynocardia  (Chaulmoogra,  Roxburgh,  Hydnocarpus,  Bindley ) odorata,  R. 
Brown.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  28. 

Nat.  Ord. — Bixaceae. 

Origin. — The  chaulmugra  is  a large  tree  of  the  Malayan  peninsula,  growing  nort.i- 
ward  to  Assam  and  westward  to  Sikkim,  It  has  alternate  oblong  and  acuminate  leaves 


GYNOCARDIA. 


803 


and  dioecious  yellowish  flowers,  each  petal  having  a dark-yellow  spreading  scale  at  the 
base.  The  fruit  is  globular,  gray,  one-celled,  pulpy,  and  many-seeded. 

Description. — Tile  seeds  are  irregular  ovoid,  about  an  inch  (25  Mm.)  long,  some- 
what angular,  dull-gray,  have  a brittle  testa,  and  contain  a large  embryo  with  a thick 
radicle  and  a pair  of  leafy  cordate  cotyledons  imbedded  in  a brown  oily  albumen.  The 
kernel  has  a faint,  peculiar,  somewhat  unpleasant  odor  and  taste. 

Constituents. — By  subjecting  the  seeds  to  pressure  or  by  boiling  them  in  water 
chaulmugra  oil  is  obtained,  which,  when  pure,  is  of  a pale  or  golden-sherry  color,  melts 
at  about  40°  C.  (104°  F.),  and  on  keeping  frequently  deposits  a granular  fat;  that 
obtained  by  boiling  is  said  to  remain  clear,  and,  according  to  Dymock,  does  not  form 
a o-reen  tenacious  mass  on  stirring  20  minims  of  it  with  1 minim  of  sulphuric  acid.  On 
the  contrary,  when  the  expressed  oil  is  thus  treated  a reddish-brown  resin-like  mass  is 
formed  around  the  acid.  John  Moss  (1879)  ascertained  that  the  acid  reaction  of  the  oil 
is  due  to  palmitic  and  gynocardic  acids,  and  that  the  oil  consists  of  glycerides  of  palmitic 
and  about  11.7  per  cent,  of  gynocardic  acid,  with  small  proportions  of  hypogaeic  and 
cocinic  acids.  Gynocardic  acid  has  a yellowish  color,  crystallizes  readily  in  plates,  melts 
at  29.5°  C.  (85°  F.),  has  an  acrid  burning  taste,  is  probably  of  the  formula  CuH.,40.2,  and 
gives  a green  color  with  sulphuric  acid ; a similar  color  is  also  produced  by  the  same 
reagent  with  palm  oil. 

Allied  Species. — Hvdnocarpus  venenata,  Gaertner , a large  tree  of  Western  India,  has  a 
tomentose  fruit  containing  longitudinally  striate,  and  on  the  edges  rugose,  seeds. 

Hydnocarpus  Wightiana,  Blume , a large  tree,  a native  of  Ceylon,  has  a fruit  of  the  size  of 
a small  apple  and  obtusely-angular  seeds.  The  seeds  of  both  species  yield  a fatty  oil  which  is 
used  like  chaulmugra  oil. 

Action  and  Uses. — Chaulmugra  oil  has  from  time  immemorial  been  held  in  great 
esteem  by  the  native  races  of  India  as  a potent  medicine  in  the  treatment  of  leprosy , 
scrofula,  phthisis,  syphilis,  rheumatism,  itch,  and  various  diseases  of  the  shin.  For  the  first 
named  of  these  diseases  it  is  held  in  the  Mauritius  to  be  a specific  remedy.  Of  its  mode 
of  action  nothing  is  known  beyond  the  fact  that  when  given  in  excessive  doses  it  causes 
vomiting.  Of  its  utility  in  leprosy  we  have  the  report  of  Dr.  Young,  who  treated  fifty- 
three  cases,  of  which  four  belonged  to  the  macular,  twenty-three  to  the  anaesthetic,  fif- 
teen to  the  tubercular,  and  eleven  to  mixed  forms  of  the  disease.  He  concluded  that 
in  the  macular  and  in  the  early  stage  of  the  anaesthetic  forms  of  leprosy  chaulmugra 
appears  to  be  of  decided  value.  Several  of  the  cases  treated  were  complicated  with 
bronchial  affections,  which  were  quite  relieved  during  the  treatment.  The  oil  was  given 
in  gradually  increasing  doses,  beginning  with  5 drops  three  times  a day,  but  the  good 
effects  of  the  treatment  were  seen  earlier  in  cases  treated  with  the  powdered  seeds.  A 
liberal  milk  diet  seemed  to  be  a valuable  auxiliary.  These  results  have,  on  the  whole, 
been  confirmed  by  the  later  experience  of  competent  judges.  Thus,  Dr.  Liveing  draws 
attention  to  the  fact  that  leprosy  (E.  graecorum),  like  many  other  fatal  diseases,  is  liable 
to  long  periods  of  comparative  rest  or  subsidence  quite  apart  from  any  special  treatment. 
After  a study  of  twenty  cases  he  concludes  that  neither  gurjun  oil  nor  chaulmugra  oil 
can  be  regarded  as  a specific  for  the  disease ; some  cases  improved  under  the  latter,  but 
he  adds,  “ I have  never  met  with  one  well-authenticated  case  of  complete  cure  under ‘its 
influence”  ( Times  and  Gazette,  Aug.  1879,  p.  205).  Mr.  C.  T.  Peters  found  this  oil 
useful  in  relieving  the  dyspeptic  symptoms  of  lepers  and  in  promoting  the  absorption  of 
the  leprous  tubercles  ( Edin . Med.  Jour.,  xxviii.  214).  It  seems  to  form  a convenient 
and  useful  local  application,  for  its  unctuous  smoothness  has  been  compared  to  that  of 
goose-grease.  It  was  employed  in  England  (1879)  in  the  treatment  of  pulmonary 
phthisis.  The  patients  showed  an  unusual  degree  of  objection  to  taking  it  on  account 
of  its  nauseous  odor  and  taste,  and  when  mixed  with  cod-liver  oil  it  became  particularly 
repugnant  to  them.  The  result  of  the  trial  was  altogether  unfavorable  (Yeo).  These 
adverse  results  have  been  confirmed  by  the  subsequent  observations  of  Murrell. 
' The  oil  has  a deserved  reputation  in  cases  of  itch  and  parasitic  pediculi.”  In  skin  dis- 
eases, except,  perhaps,  in  chronic  psoriasis  and  eczema,  it  has  proved  irritating.  Rheu- 
matism and  gout  have  been  alleged  (Cottle)  to  improve  rapidly  under  the  use  of  chaul- 
mugra  oil,  but  confirmatory  evidence  is  wanting.  It  may  be  administered  in  the  dose  of 
Dm.  0.30  (npv.)  enclosed  in  gelatin  capsules,  or  in  an  emulsion  with  milk,  glycerin,  or 
almond  oil.  The  seeds,  coarsely  powdered,  are  given  in  pills  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.30- 
0.40  (gr.  v-vj).  The  ointment  is  officinal  in  India. 


804 


H2EMA  TOXYLON.— HAMAMELIS. 


H^EMATOXYLON,  U.  Logwood. 

Hsematoxyli  lignum , Br.  ; Lignum  Campechianum,  Lignum  coeruleum. — Bois  de  Cam- 
peche, Bois  d’  Iride,  Bois  de  sang,  Fr. ; Blauholz,  Blutholz,  Campecheholz,  G. ; Falo  de 
Campeche,  Sp. 

The  heart-wood  of  Haematoxylon  campechianum,  Linne.  Woodville,  Med.  Bot.,  plate 
17  ; Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 86. 

Nat.  Ord. — Leguminosae,  Caesalpineae. 

Origin. — The  logwood  tree  is  indigenous  to  the  shores  of  the  Gulf  of  Campeachy  and 
to  other  parts  of  Central  America,  and  has  been  introduced  into,  and  perfectly  natural- 
ized in,  Jamaica,  St.  Domingo,  and  other  West  Indian  islands.  It  is  9-12  M.  (30  to  40 
feet)  high,  has  many  spreading  and  crooked  branches,  alternate  leaves  with  four  pairs  of 
obcordate  leaflets,  small  yellow  flowers  in  lax  racemes,  and  two-seeded  legumes.  The 
tree  is  felled  when  about  ten  years  old  ; the  bark  and  light-colored  sap-wood  are  removed, 
the  red  heart-wood  alone  entering  commerce. 

Description. — Logwood  is  met  with  in  logs  about  90  Cm.  (3  feet)  long,  which  con- 
sist of  the  heart-wood,  and,  from  exposure,  are  externally  of  a blackish-purple  darkened 
by  chlorine,  internally  of  a brown-red  color.  Irregular  concentric  circles  of  darker  and 
lighter  red  color,  resembling  annual  rings,  are  observed  upon  cross-section  ; the  vessels 
are  distinct  to  the  naked  eye,  the  medullary  rays  very  fine.  The  wood  is  heavier  than 
water,  specific  gravity  about  1.06,  splits  irregularly,  has  a slight  agreeable  odor  and 
a sweetish  and  astringent  taste,  and  imparts  a dark  pink  color  to  the  saliva.  In  the  shops 
it  is  found  in  the  form  of  chips  and  ground  into  a coarse  powder,  upon  both  of  which  a 
greenish  lustre  ( hsematein ) is  often  observed.  Under  the  microscope  the  cell-walls  are 
seen  to  have  a red  color,  and  the  ducts  and  wood-fibres  to  be  filled  with  a red  resin-like 
mass,  occasionally  forming  in  the  ducts  crystals  of  a green  metallic  lustre. 

Constituents. — Analyzed  by  Chevreul  (1812),  it  was  found  to  contain  a little  vola- 
tile oil,  brown  extractive  containing  tannin,  fatty  or  resinous  and  glutinous  matter,  and  a 
crystalline  substance  which  he  named  hsematin , but  which  is  now  more  properly  called 
hsematoxylin.  According  to  Erdmann  (1842),  it  is  best  obtained  from  powdered  extract 
of  logwood  by  mixing  it  with  much  sand  and  exhausting  with  ether ; the  ether  is  mostly 
recovered  by  distillation,  and  the  residue  mixed  with  some  water  and  crystallized,  a little 
sulphurous  acid  or  solution  of  a sulphite  being  added  to  prevent  oxidation  ; the  yield  is 
about  12  per  cent.  When  pure,  hsematoxylin  is  C16H1406,  and  crystallizes  with  1 or 
3H20  in  colorless  or  pale  yellow  prisms  which  have  a strongly  sweet  taste  of  liquorice, 
acquire  a red  color  on  exposure  to  the  light,  are  freely  soluble  in  hot  water,  in  alcohol,  and 
ether,  and,  fused  with  potassa,  yield  pyrogallol.  The  aqueous  solution  is  slightly  pre- 
cipitated by  solution  of  isinglass,  and  produces  with  baryta  solution,  lead  acetate,  and  with 
copper  salts  white  or  grayish  precipitates  which  rapidly  turn  blue.  Ammonia  dissolves 
hsematoxylin,  the  solution  being  rose-red,  then  purple,  and  finally  blackish-red;  the  fixed 
alkalies  produce  similar  solutions,  and  the  color  ultimately  becomes  yellowish-brown. 
The  blackish  ammonia  solution  contains  hsematein-ammonia , from  which  acetic  acid  sep- 
arates hsematein , C16H]206 ; this  is  soluble  in  alcohol  and  hot  water,  slightly  so  in  ether, 
and  forms  a blackish-violet  crystalline  powder  having  a green  metallic  lustre.  Hmmatein- 
ammonia  causes,  in  a warm  solution  of  a small  amount  of  alum  and  with  ferric  chloride, 
deep-violet  precipitates ; with  lead  acetate,  a brown  one. 

Action  and  Uses.— Logwood  is  mildly  astringent  and  has  been  reputed  to  possess 
tonic  virtues.  Its  preparations  darken  the  faeces,  and  sometimes  turn  the  urine  blood- 
red  and  give  it  a sweetish  taste.  They  constipate  less  than  the  pure  astringents.  They 
are  used  to  check  diarrhoea , hsemorrhage,  and  sweat ; their  mildness  renders  them  appro- 
priate for  infantile  diarrhoea.  Externally,  logwood  is  said  to  display  antiseptic  and 
healing  qualities  in  the  treatment  of  gangrenous  and  ill-conditioned  sores. 

HAMAMELIS,  V.  S.— Hamamelis. 

Witch-hazel , E. ; Hamamelis,  Fr.  ; Hamamelis,  Zauherhasel,  G. 

The  leaves  of  Hamamelis  virginica,  Linne,  collected  in  autumn. 

Nat.  Ord. — Hamamelaceae. 

Origin. — The  witch-hazel  is  a shrub  from  1.8-3  M.  (6  to  10  feet)  high,  growing  in 
damp  woods  and  thickets  in  Canada  and  the  United  States.  It  has  a rather  crooked 
stem,  with  a close  white  wood  and  with  flexuose  branches,  which  are  covered  with  a 


HAMAMELIS. 


805 


smooth  brown  bark,  the  older  bark  being  brown-gray  and  somewhat  fissured,  and  inter- 
nally whitish  and  smooth.  The  flowers  are  in  clusters  of  three  or  four  with  an  invo- 
lucre of  three  ovate  leaflets,  have  a four-cleft  calyx  and  four  long  linear,  greenish-yellow 
petals,  and  appear  in  September  and  October,  the  nut-like  two-celled  and  two-beaked  cap- 
sule, containing  two  black  oily  edible  seeds,  not  ripening  until  September  of  the  next 
year.  The  bark,  which  has  been  medicinally  employed,  has  a bitter,  astringent,  and 
somewhat  pungent  taste. 

Description. — The  leaves  are  alternate,  short  petiolate,  thickish,  10-15  Cm.  (4  to  6 
inches)  long,  oval  or  obovate,  feathered- veined,  wavy- toothed  on  the  margin,  slightly 
heart-shaped  and  oblique  at  the  base,  stellate-pubescent  when  young  and  nearly  smooth 
when  old ; they  are  inodorous,  and  have  an  astringent  and  bitter  taste. 

Constituents. — H.  K.  Bowman  (1869)  ascertained  the  bark  to  contain  8.10  per 
cent,  of  tannin,  which  was  determined  by  means  of  gelatin.  The  leaves  have  not  been 
analyzed ; they  contain  tannin  and  a bitter  principle. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Tinctura  IIamamelidis,  Br.  Add. — Tincture  of  Hamamelis,  E.  ; 
Hamamelisrinden-Tinktur,  G. — Take  of  hamamelis  bark,  in  No.  20  powder,  2 ounces,  proof 
spirit  a sufficiency.  Moisten  the  powder  with  a suitable  quantity  of  the  menstruum,  and 
macerate  for  twenty-four  hours  5 pack  in  a percolator,  and  gradually  add  proof  spirit  until  one 
pint  of  tincture  is  obtained. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  accounts  published  of  the  remedial  virtues  of  witch- 
hazel  seem  to  be  as  hard  to  accept  as  the  popular  faith  in  it  as  an  infallible  divining-rod. 
Yet  through  the  extravagant  statements  concerning  it  there  runs  a thread  of  truth,  for 
all  the  conditions  it  is  said  to  relieve  are  those  of  morbid  excitement,  such  as  inflamma- 
tions, congestions , haemorrhages , and  even  the  action  of  the  gravid  uterus  in  threatened 
miscarnage.  To  the  tannin  and  essential  oil  it  contains,  and  to  a peculiar  bitter  principle, 
some  of  its  alleged  sedative  virtues  may  be  attributed.  In  America/  it  was  very  early 
used  as  a medicine.  Coxe  (Amer.  Dispensatory , 1814)  quotes  from  Thacher,  who,  in  his 
turn,  borrows  from  Cutler  the  following : “ The  Indians  applied  the  bark,  which  is 

sedative  and  discutient,  to  painful  tumors  and  internal  inflammations.  A cataplasm  of 
the  inner  rind  of  the  bark  is  found  to  be  very  efficacious  in  removing  painful  inflamma- 
tions of  the  eyes.  The  bark  chewed  in  the  mouth  is,  at  first,  somewhat  bitter,  very 
sensibly  astringent,  and  then  leaves  a pungent  sweetish  taste,  which  will  remain  for  a 
considerable  time.”  Herat  and  De  Lens  (1831)  quoted  from  Coxe  the  substance  of  the 
preceding  passage.  In  1868,  Dr.  Lee  declared  witch-hazel  to  contain  a larger  proportion 
of  tannin  than  geranium  or  sumach.  Dr.  Hector  Guy  ( Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour .,  April, 
1885,  p.  361)  found  in  it  only  “ tannin,  an  essential  oil,  waxy  matter,  and  extractive.”  Of 
these  constituents,  tannin  is  evidently  the  most  important,  and  necessarily  is  not  con- 
tained in  the  distillate  which  is  popularly  known  as  extract  of  witch-hazel.  Experi- 
ments on  animals  and  man  by  Guy  prove  that  the  preparations  of  this  plant  are  totally 
devoid  of  poisonous  properties,  and  that  there  is  no  evidence  that  they  can  exert  any 
physiological  action  at  all.  These  results  were  fully  confirmed  by  the  investigations 
made  by  Drs.  H.  C.  Wood  and  John  Marshall,  who  also  concluded  that  whatever  virtues 
the  medicine  may  possess  depend  upon  “ the  very  large  percentage  of  tannic  or  gallic 
acid  in  the  fluid  extract”  (Thtrap.  Gaz.,  x.  295).  When  the  negro  slaves  endeavored 
to  produce  abortion  by  means  of  cotton-root,  miscarriage  is  said  to  have  been  prevented 
by  the  use  of  hamamelis  (Porcher,  Resources  of  the  Southern  Fields , etc.,  1869,  p.  62). 
Recent  observations  (1882)  appear  to  justify  the  use  of  witch-hazel  to  check  hemor- 
rhage, relieve  tender  and  painful  piles,  and  promote  the  healing  of  unhealthy  wounds 
and  irritable  and  varicose  ulcers.  But  they  do  not  demonstrate  its  possession  of  other 
qualities  than  such  as  belong  to  tannin  and  the  plants  containing  it.  The  published 
reports  often  exhibit  more  faith  in  the  physician  than  virtue  in  the  medicine.  They 
overlook  the  natural  tendency  of  haemorrhage  to  cease,  which  has  led  into  error  the 
advocates  of  many  haemostatics,  and  their  statements  are  mutually  destructive.  For 
while  one  reporter  states  that  he  cured  “ bleeding  piles,  menorrhagia,  and  continued 
oozing  from  the  uterus  four  weeks  after  confinement  ” by  giving  ‘£  two  drops  of  the  fluid 
extract  hourly,”  another  arrested  haemoptisis  by  “ 40  to  60  drops  of  the  extract  repeated 
three  times  a day,”  and  a third  boasts  of  arresting  haemorrhage  from  the  bladder  by  this 
medicine,  when  in  fact  he  employed  “ 1 drachm  of  tincture  of  hamamelis  and  \ drachm 
of  carbolic  acid”  There  can  be  little  doubt  that  haemorrhoid al  swellings  and  haemor- 
rhage have  been  palliated  by  hamamelis  as  they  are  by  preparations  of  gallic  or  of 
tannic  acid  ; but  when  we  are  assured  that  varicose  veins  and  ulcers  are  curable  by  this 
agent  applied  locally,  and  we  are  disposed  to  accept  the  assurance,  we  hesitate  on  being 


806 


HEDEOMA . -HELEN I UM. 


told  of  the  efficacy  in  varicose  veins  of  1 grain  twice  a day  of  its  extract,  internally 
administered  ( Therap . Gaz .,  ix.  336).  Hamamelis  may  be  used  in  a decoction  made 
with  Gm.  32  to  Gm.  500  (^j  in  Oj),  and  given  in  wineglassful  doses  every  three  or  four 
hours,  or  oftener,  according  to  the  urgency  of  the  case.  We  have  known  a decoction 
or  infusion  of  it  to  be  applied  as  a lotion  with  apparent  benefit  in  crusta  lactea.  The 
fluid  extract  is  officinal,  and  an  ointment  may  be  made  with  this  extract  evaporated  to 
dryness  or  with  the  fresh  bruised  bark  boiled  in  lard.  The  last  is  used  for  haemorrhoids. 

HEDEOMA,  77.  S. — Hedeoma. 

American  pennyroyal,  E. ; Pouliot  americain , Fr. ; Amerikanischer  Polei , G. 

The  leaves  and  tops  of  Hedeoma  (Melissa,  Linne , Cunila,  Willdenoiv , Ziziphora,  Des- 
fontaines ) pulegioides,  Persoon.  Barton,  Med.  Hot.,  t.  41  ; Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med. 
Plants , 200. 

Nat.  Ord. — Labiatae,  Satureiese. 

Origin. — Pennyroyal  is  an  annual  herb  indigenous  to  North  America,  from  Canada 
south  through  the  United  States.  It  grows  in  barren  and  sandy  fields,  on  hills,  and  along 
the  open  border  of  woods,  always  in  dry  places. 

Description. — It  has  an  erect,  obscurely  quadrangular,  branched,  and  hairy  stem 
about  15-30  Cm.  (6  to  12  inches)  high ; opposite,  shortly-petioled,  oblong-ovate,  and 

obscurely  serrate  leaves,  which  are  about  12  Mm. 
(I  inch)  long  and  glandular  dotted  on  the  lower 
side,  and  axillary  cymules  of  about  three  flowers. 
The  calyx  is  tubular-ovoid,  hairy  in  the  throat,  and 
somewhat  two-lipped,  the  upper  lip  divided  into 
three  lanceolate  teeth,  the  two  lower  teeth  subulate. 
The  corolla  is  small,  the  tube  scarcely  exceeding  the 
calyx,  pale-blue  with  purplish  spots,  two-lipped,  the 
upper  lip  erect  and  emarginate,  the  lower  lip  spread- 
ing and  nearly  equally  three-lobed.  It  has  two  sterile 
and  two  fertile  somewhat  exserted  stamens,  a bifid 
style,  and  produces  four  small  smooth  akenes  at  the 
base  of  the  persistent  calyx.  It  has  a strong  aro- 
matic mint-like  odor  and  a warm  and  pungent  taste. 

Constituents. — Its  virtues  depend  upon  the 
volatile  oil.  (See  Oleum  Hedeoma:.)  Its  other 
constituents  are  probably  those  generally  found  in  plants  of  this  natural  order. 

Allied  Plants. — Mentha  Pulegium,  Linn6  (s.  Pulegium  vulgare,  Millei)  is  the  European 
pennyroyal,  Menthe  pouliot,  Pouliot  commun,  Fr. ; Polei,  G. ; Poleo,  Sp.  It  grows  in  moist 
sandy  localities  in  Central  and  Southern  Europe,  has  oval-obtuse  and  crenately-serrate  leaves, 
many-flowered  axillary  cymes  forming  globular  whorls,  and  a purplish-colored  four-lobed  corolla. 
It  resembles  the  former  in  odor,  while  the  taste  is  somewhat  bitter  and  acrid. 

Hedeoma  thymoides,  Gray,  of  Texas,  possesses  similar  properties,  but  has  a more  agreeable 
odor.  • 

Action  and  Uses. — Hedeoma  is  an  aromatic  stimulant.  It  may  be  prescribed, 
like  other  medicines  of  its  class,  to  relieve  flatulent  colic  or  painful  digestion,  to  correct 
the  nauseating  or  griping  operation  of  certain  purgatives,  etc.  For  these  purposes  it  is 
less  eligible  than  mint,  anise,  etc.  In  the  form  of  hot  infusion  it  is  much  used  to  dissi- 
pate the  congestions  tending  to  diarrhoea  and  to  inflammation  of  the  throat  or  bronchia, 
also  in  muscular  rheumatism , etc.,  and,  in  conjunction  with  the  hot  hip-  and  foot-baths, 
to  bring  on  retarded  or  suspended  menstruation.  An  infusion  made  with  Gm.  16  (sss) 
of  the  plant  to  Gm.  500  (Oj)  of  water  may  be  given  in  the  dose  of  2 fluidounces  or 
more  every  hour.  Mentha  pulegium  possesses  similar  virtues,  and  in  Europe  its  oil  is 
a popular  medicine  for  bringing  on  the  menses  and  even  for  producing  abortion. 

HELENIUM. — Sneezeweed. 

Helenium  autumnale,  Linni.  Meehan,  Native  Flowers,  ii.  113. 

Nat.  Ord. — Composite,  Senecionidese. 

Description. — The  sneezeweed  or  sneezewort  is  an  herbaceous  perennial  which  is 
common  in  damp  places  in  the  United  States,  in  British  Columbia,  and  in  Mexico,  where 
it  is  called  rosilla  de  Puebla.  It  is  of  a grayish-green  color,  nearly  smooth,  .9  to  l.a 


Fig.  146. 


Hedeoma  pulegioides,  Persoon  : flower  and  co- 
rolla, cut  open ; magnified. 


HELIANTHEM  UM.-HELIANTH  US. 


807 


M.  (3  to  5 feet)  high,  has  a branching  quadrangular,  winged  stem,  and  lanceolate-serrate 
leaves  which  are  pointed  above  and  narrowed  toward  the  base.  The  flower-heads  are 
rather  large,  numerous,  and  have  the  involucral  scales  in  two  rows,  the  outer  one  folia- 
ceous  and  reflexed;  the  ray -florets  are  ligulate,  drooping,  yellow,  veined,  and  obtusely 
three-toothed  at  the  apex.  It  flowers  in  August  and  September.  The  plant  has  scarcely 
any  odor  and  possesses  a very  bitter  taste. 

Constituents. — It  was  analyzed  by  F.  J.  Koch  (1874).  Besides  the  principles  com- 
mon to  herbs,  it  contains  malic  acid  and  traces  of  tannin  ; the  bitter  taste  is  due  to  a 
principle  which  was  obtained  in  an  amorphous  condition,  is  soluble  in  ether,  alcohol,  and 
boiling  water,  and  on  being  boiled  with  dilute  sulphuric  acid  is  resolved  into  sugar  and 
an  amorphous  bitter  substance  having  an  acid  reaction. 

Allied  Plants. — Hel.  parviflorum,  Nuttall , indigenous  to  Georgia,  has  lanceolate,  nearly 
entire,  scarcely  decurrent  leaves,  and  smaller  flower-heads  than  the  preceding. 

Hel.  tenuifolium,  Nuttall  (Meehan,  Nat.  Flow.,  ii.  37),  has  numerous  linear  or  filiform  entire 
leaves  and  small  flower-heads.  It  is  found  in  the  Southern  United  States  from  Georgia  west- 
ward to  Texas,  Arkansas,  and  Southern  Kansas.  The  properties  of  these  two  species  appear  to 
be  similar  to  those  of  the  first. 

Action  and  Uses. — Common  sneezewort  is  so  called  on  account  of  the  acrid 
quality  of  its  flowers  and  leaves,  which  when  dried  and  powdered  have  been  used  as  an 
errhine  for  the  purpose  of  dissipating  incipient  coryza  and  relieving  headache.  H.  tenui- 
folium is  said  to  be  very  poisonous  to  animals,  producing  in  them  muscular  twitchings, 
passing  into  violent  convulsions,  and  terminating  in  death.  In  four  negroes  it  produced 
spasms,  with  more  or  less  delirium  and  loss  of  consciousness  (Galloway). 

HELIANTHEMUM. — Frostwort. 

Herbe  de  heliantheme  de  Canada , Fr.  ; Canadisches  Sonnenroschen , G. 

The  herb  of  Helianthemum  canadense,  Michaux , s.  Cistus  canadensis,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Cistaceae. 

Frostwort  or  rock-rose  is  a perennial  herb  indigenous  to  dry  and  rocky  hills  and  sandy 
or  gravelly  soil  of  Canada  and  of  the  United  States  south  to  Florida. 

Description. — The  rigid  slender  stem  is  about  30  Cm.  (2  inches)  high,  has  alter- 
nate elliptic  or  linear  lanceolate  entire  leaves,  which  are  nearly  25  Mm.  (1  inch)  long 
and  woolly  beneath.  The  flowers  are  of  two  kinds : the  earlier  ones,  appearing  in  June, 
are  solitary,  stalked,  with  five  unequal  hairy  sepals,  and  the  same  number  of  large  yellow 
petals,  which  unfold  in  sunshine  only  once.  Somewhat  later  smaller  apetalous  and  nearly 
sessile  flowers  make  their  appearance  in  axillary  hoary  clusters.  The  fruit  is  a three- 
valved,  one-celled  capsule,  which  is  shorter  than  the  calyx  and  contains  few  brown  seeds. 
The  herb,  which  varies  much  in  habit,  is  inodorous  and  has  a bitterish-astringent  taste. 
Hel.  corymbosum,  Michaux , is  mainly  distinguished  by  the  petal-bearing  and  apetalous 
flowers  being  in  crowded  cymes  near  the  top  of  the  branches,  the  former  being  on  elon- 
gated, filiform  stalks.  It  grows  from  New  Jersey  southward  near  the  coast,  in  similar 
localities  with  the  former.  It  is  called  frostwort  and  frostweed  from  the  crystals  of  ice 
which  shoot  from  the  cracked  bark  at  the  base  of  the  stem  during  freezing  weather  in 
autumn.  Hel.  yulgare,  Gaertner , Cistus  helianthemum,  Linne , indigenous  to  Europe, 
resembles  the  preceding  and  possesses  similar  properties.  Frostwort  has  not  been  anal- 
yzed. It  seems  to  contain  tannin  and  a bitter  principle. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  bitter,  astringent,  and  slightly  aromatic  taste  of  this 
plant  may  explain  its  alleged  utility  in  scrofula , diarrhoea , and  secondary  syphilis.  A 
strong  decoction  of  it  is  apt  to  produce  vomiting,  but  is  employed  as  a gargle  in  sore 
throat , especially  as  it  occurs  in  scarlatina , and  also  as  a wash  for  prurigo.  An  extract  is 
prepared  which  may  be  given  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.12  (gr.  ij). 

HELIANTHUS.— Sunflower. 

Helianthe , Grand  Soleil,  Fr. ; Sonnenblume , G.  ; Elianto , Sp. 

Helianthus  annuus,  Linne. 

A at.  Ord. — Compositae,  Senecionideae. 

Description. — The  sunflower  is  indigenous  to  tropical  America  and  cultivated  in 
most  civilized  countries,  in  many  of  which  it  has  become  naturalized  or  grows  spontane- 
ously. It  has  a straight  stem  from  3-4.5  M.  (10  to  15  feet)  high,  which  contains  a large 
white  pith.  The  leaves  are  alternate,  petiolate,  25  Cm.  (10  inches)  long,  broadly  ovate 
or  heart-shaped,  three-ribbed,  serrate,  and  rough.  The  flower-heads  are  from  20-30  Cm. 


808 


HELLEBORTJS. 


(8  to  12  inches)  in  diameter,  with  bright-yellow  ligulate  ray-florets  and  a flat  brownish 
disk.  The  akenes  are  obovate-oblong,  somewhat  quadrangular,  flattened,  vary  in  color 
between  whitish  and  black  or  are  striped,  are  at  the  base  embraced  by  the  chaff,  and 
crowned  with  a very  deciduous  pappus  of  two  chaffy  scales.  On  being  triturated  with 
water  the  kernels  yield  a bland  emulsion. 

Constituents. — Wittstein  (1876)  obtained  from  the  fresh  plant,  deprived  of  the 
fruit,  1.9  per  cent,  of  ash,  nearly  two-thirds  of  which  were  potassium  carbonate,  and 
from  the  fruit  between  16  and  28  per  cent,  of  fixed  oil.  Sun  flow  er-oil  is  pale-yellow, 
limpid,  bland,  has  the  sp.  gr.  0.962,  and  dries  slowly  on  exposure  to  air;  under  the  influ- 
ence of  nitrous  acid  it  forms  a soft  yellow  mass ; with  strong  sulphuric  acid  it  turns  red 
and  brown,  but  is  not  altered  by  a weak  acid.  The  kernels  contain  also,  according  to 
Ludwig  and  Kromayer,  helianthic  acid , C7H904;  which  reacts  dark-green  with  ferric  salts, 
is  soluble  in  water  and  alcohol,  and  not  precipitated  by  gelatin  or  potassium  ferrocyanide. 
The  dried  pith,  according  to  John,  contains  9 per  cent,  of  potassium  nitrate. 

Allied  Plants. — The  numerous  species  of  this  genus  have  yellow  flowers,  rough  and  frequently 
opposite  leaves,  and  generally  possess  little  odor.  The  next  is  occasionally  cultivated  for  culi- 
nary purposes : 

Helianthus  tuberosus,  Linne. — Jerusalem  artichoke,  E.;  Topinambour,  Fr.;  Erdartischocke, 
G. — Indigenous  to  Brazil.  The  tubers  are  thick,  oblong,  externally  reddish,  internally  white, 
and  resemble  the  artichoke  in  flavor,  but  are  less  pleasant.  Examined  by  Braconnot,  Payen,  and 
others,  they  were  found  to  contain  76  to  77  water,  14.7  sugar,  mucilage,  inulin,  1 to  3 per  cent, 
albumen,  etc. 

Actinomeris  squarrosa,  Nuttall,  is  a coarse-looking  herb,  with  a winged  stem,  and  with  alter- 
nate, or  sometimes  opposite,  oblong-lanceolate,  and  tapering  leaves.  The  involucre  consists  of 
two  rows  of  spreading  or  reflexed  scales  ; the  receptacle  is  small,  hemispherical ; the  ray-florets, 
about  six,  are  short,  yellow,  and  neutral ; the  flat,  broadly-winged,  and  two-awned  akenes  are 
partly  enclosed  by  chaff.  The  plant  grows  in  moist  ground  in  the  Middle  and  Western  United 
States. 

Action  and  Uses. — Sunflower  is  scarcely  a medicinal  agent.  Its  oil  was  largely 
used  by  the  aborigines  of  North  America.  It  serves  many  of  the  purposes  of  olive  oil; 
the  seeds  are  employed  in  fattening  poultry  and,  after  expression  of  the  oil,  for  cattle, 
the  pith  of  the  stalk  for  making  moxas,  and  the  growing  plant  for  drying  damp  soils  on 
account  of  its  remarkable  power  of  absorbing  water.  The  preposterous  assertion  has 
been  made  that  the  dried  stems  infused  in  whiskey  cure  intermittent  fever.  Quite  pos- 
sibly the  alcohol  of  the  preparation  may  have  some  such  effect.  A similar  statement 
regarding  the  leaves  and  the  flowers  is  not  proven  (Bull,  de  Therapy  cxvii.  333). 

Actinomeris  helianthoides,  or  gravel-weed,  is  said  to  be  diuretic  and  to  have  been 
used  with  advantage  in  cases  of  gravel,  and  also  in  dropsy  ( Therap . Gaz .,  Sept.  1881), 
The  evidence  in  its  favor  is  not,  however,  very  conclusive. 

HELLEBORUS. — Black  Hellebore. 

Radix  hellebori  nigri , Radix  melampodii. — Hellebore  noir , Fr.  Cod. ; Schwarze  Nies- 
wurzel , Weinachtswurzel,  W interrose,  Gr. ; Eleboro  negro , Sp. 

The  rhizome,  with  the  rootlets,  of  Helleborus  niger,  Linne.  Woodville,  Med.  Bot ., 
169  ; Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 2. 

Nat.  Ord. — Ranunculaceae,  Helleborese. 

Origin. — Black  hellebore,  also  called  Christmas  rose , is  a native  of  Europe,  and  is 
met  with  in  mountainous  woods  from  Southern  Germany  and  Central  France  southward 

Fig.  147. 


Fig.  148. 


Helleborus  viridis,  Linne : transverse 
section  of  rhizome  and  root. 

to  Italy  and  eastward  to  Greece.  It  flowers  in  winter,  from  December  to  March.  The 


HELLEBORUS. 


809 


plant  is  acaulescent,  and  has  coriaceous,  smooth,  pedately  seven-  to  nine-lobed  leaves,  and 
pale-green  petioles  and  flower-stalks  mottled  with  red ; the  single  flowers  have  five  large 
white  or  pinkish  sepals  and  ten  or  more  small  greenish  petals.  The  fruit  consists  of  five 
to  nine  follicles,  having  the  black  shining  seeds  in  two  rows. 

Description. — The  rhizome,  with  branches,  has  an  irregular  knotty  appearance,  is 
25-75  Mm.  (1  to  3 inches)  long,  6-12  Mm.  (f  to  ? inch)  thick  ; the  branches  are  annulate 
from  leaf-sheaths  and  terminate  with  a concave  (or  when  more  recent  with  a convex)  scar. 
The  numerous  rootlets  are  long,  but,  being  very  brittle,  are  always  more  or  less  broken 
off  in  the  commercial  article,  about  2.5  Mm.  inch)  thick,  longitudinally  wrinkled,  and, 
like  the  rhizome,  of  a brown-black  color.  The  transverse  section  of  the  rhizome  shows 
a thick  brownish-gray  bark  occupying  about  one-sixth  of  the  diameter,  a somewhat  thicker 
whitish  pith,  and  six  to  ten  small  wedge-shaped  wood-bundles  placed  in  a circle  and  sepa- 
rated by  broad  medullary  rays.  The  rootlets  have  a thick  bark  and  a central  slightly 
pentagonal  or  hexagonal  wood.  In  the  dry  state  black  hellebore  has  scarcely  any  odor ; 
its  taste  is  sweetish,  then  bitterish-acrid. 

The  rhizome  and  roots  of  Helleborus  viridis,  Linne , which  are  officially  recognized  in 
several  European  countries  and  considered  to  be  more  efficacious,  are  gathered,  together 
with  the  radical  leaves,  in  the  autumn  or  in  early  spring,  before  flowering,  the  leaves  being 
removed  when  used.  The  plant,  which  is  indigenous  to  Central  and  Southern  Europe 
and  grows  wild  on  Long  Island,  produces  its  greenish  flowers  in  March  and  April,  and 
has  pedately  seven-lobed  radical  leaves  with  the  lobes  lanceolate-acute  and  serrate.  The 
rhizome  is  about  5 Cm.  (2  inches)  long  and  6 Mm.  (f  inch)  thick,  above  knotty  from  the 
numerous  stem-remnants,  and  annulate  by  the  leaf-scars ; the  numerous  nearly  simple 
rootlets  are  10  Cm.  (4  inches)  long,  brittle,  and  usually  broken  off  in  the  commercial 
article.  In  color,  odor,  and  taste  it  resembles  black  hellebore.  The  transverse  section 
of  the  rhizome  shows  a large  pith  with  broad  branches,  and  a woody  ring  consisting  of 
four  broad  and  short  wedges,  each  composed  of  several  smaller  ones.  The  rootlets  have 
a thick  bark  and  a central  obtusely  four-branched  ligneous  cord.  This  drug  is  known  in 
Europe,  and  prescribed  as  Radix  hellebori  viridis , or  green  hellebore ; it  should  not  be 
confounded  with  Veratrum  viride,  to  which  the  same  common  name  is  sometimes  given. 
It  is  not  often  met  with  in  the  American  market. 

Constituents. — The  two  rhizomes  appear  to  have  the  same  constituents.  Aside 
from  those  more  generally  met  with,  like  resin,  gum,  etc.,  they  contain  helleborin , 
C36H4,06,  discovered  by  Bastick  (1852),  and  helleborein,  C26H44015,  discovered  by  Huse- 
mann  and  Marme  (1865)  ; the  latter  principle  is  more  abundant  in  black,  the  former  in 
green,  hellebore.  On  exhausting  the  concentrated  tincture  with  hot  water  and  filtering 
from  the  resin  and  oil,  helleborin  will  crystallize ; it  is  very  poisonous,  scarcely  soluble  in 
cold  water,  little  so  in  ether  and  fixed  oil,  and  freely  soluble  in  alcohol  and  chloroform  ; 
its  alcoholic  solution  has  a burning  taste,  and  it  yields  grayish  amorphous  and  tasteless 
helleboresin , C3oH3804,  on  being  boiled  with  solution  of  zinc  chloride.  Helleborein  is 
obtained  from  the  decoction  by  precipitating  with  basic  lead  acetate,  then  with  sodium 
sulphate,  and  finally  with  tannin  ; the  latter  precipitate  is  decomposed  by  lead  oxide, 
the  dry  mass  exhausted  with  alcohol,  the  tincture  concentrated  and  mixed  with  ether. 
It  forms  colorless  nodules  of  minute  needles,  is  readily  soluble  in  water,  less  so  in  alcohol, 
and  insoluble  in  ether,  and  has  a sweetish  taste  and  a poisonous  action.  Boiling  with 
dilute  acids  converts  it  into  sugar  and  greenish  amorphous  and  tasteless  helleboretin , 

c,Ao°3.  . . . . . 

Hellebore  contains  no  tannin  ; an  organic  acid  present  is  probably  identical  with  aco- 
nitic  acid. 

Adulterations. — Black  hellebore  of  commerce  has  been  sometimes  mixed  with  the 
rhizomes  and  roots  of  other,  mainly  ranunculaceous,  plants,  the  most  frequently  occur- 
ring being  Actaea  spicata,  Linne , which  has  a close  resemblance  to  cimicifuga,  but  merely 
the  dimensions  of  black  hellebore.  (See  page  122.)  The  rhizome  of  Adonis  vernalis, 
Linne , is  subconical,  almost  simple,  tufted  above,  not  annulated,  and  has  brittle  rootlets 
with  a cross-shaped  wood.  At  one  time  we  observed  a black,  forked,  monocotyledonous 
rhizome  of  unknown  origin  offered  as  black  hellebore. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Extractum  hellebori. — Extract  of  black  hellebore, 
E. ; Extrait  d’ellebore  noir,  Fr. ; Nieswurzextrakt,  G. — The  drug  is  exhausted  with 
alcohol  and  diluted  alcohol  (£7!  S.  P.  1870),  or  preferably  with  alcohol  of  60-70  per 
cent. ; the  yield  is  about  14  per  cent. 

Tinctura  hellebori. — Tincture  of  hellebore,  E. ; Teinture  d’ellebore  noir,  I r. ; 


810 


PEMWESMI  RADIX. 


.Nieswurztinktur,  G.— Black  hellebore  2 troyounces;  displace  with  diluted  alcohol  suf- 
ficient for  obtaining  1 pint. — TJ.  S.  P.  1870. 

Action  and  Uses. — Hellebore  and  helleborein  are  violent  gastro-intestinal  irritants, 
producing  vomiting  and  purging,  with  copious  bilious  evacuations,  and  killing  through 
exhaustion  and  convulsions.  Vittorio  and  Elvidio  have  shown  that  even  a very  small 
quantity  of  helleborein  applied  to  the  eye  produces  local  anaesthesia  ( CentralLl . /. 
Therap .,  vi.  443),  and  Van  der  Heide  states  that  in  dogs  its  continued  administration 
slows  the  pulse  and  finally  arrests  it  ( Practitioner , xxxvi.  298).  It  acts  chiefly  on  the 
nervous  system  as  a powerful  depressant.  In  man  small  and  repeated  doses  of  hellebore 
produce  liquid  alvine  evacuations  and  increase  the  menstrual  and  haemorrhoidal  flows. 
In  larger  doses  it  causes  vomiting,  colic,  spasm  of  the  throat,  thirst  with  heat  in  the 
abdomen,  exhaustion,  failing  pulse,  dilated  pupils,  cold  sweats,  and  collapse  with  spasms. 
In  the  fatal  cases  reported  nothing  is  said  of  its  having  purged. 

The  reputation  of  this  medicine  rests  chiefly  upon  the  cures  attributed  to  it  of  mania 
and  melancholy , for  which  it  was  anciently  held  to  be  a specific.  Possibly  it  may  have 
been  useful  in  cases  of  mental  disorder  connected  with  constipation  and  congestion  of  the 
liver  and  the  abdominal  organs  generally.  Yet  the  form  of  insanity  which  it  seems  most 
to  have  benefited  in  modern  times  is  acute  mania  with  febrile  excitement.  Like  all 
drastic  purgatives,  black  hellebore  is  sometimes  curative  of  amenorrhcea  either  of  the 
congestive  or  the  atonic  form,  and  is  often  a palliative  of  ascites  by  removing  more  or  less 
of  the  dropsical  fluid  through  the  bowels.  For  this  purpose  it  is  inferior  to  jalap.  The 
dose  of  the  powdered  root  as  a purgative  is  Gm.  0.30-1.30  (gr.  v-xx).  A decoction  may 
be  prepared  by  boiling  Gm.  4 (60  grains)  of  the  bruised  root  in  Gm.  500  (a  pint)  of 
water,  of  which  a fluidounce  may  be  given  every  two  or  three  hours  until  it  operates. 
The  antidotes  to  poisoning  by  black  hellebore  are  diffusible  stimulants,  given  after  the 
evacuation  of  the  poison. 

Adonis  vernalis  acts  upon  the  frog’s  heart  very  much  like  digitalis,  producing  a tonic 
contraction  of  the  organ  and  a diminished  pulse-rate  (Bubnoff,  1880;  Cervello,  1882; 
Huchard ; Durand,  1885).  Clinical  observation  leads  to  a similar  conclusion,  for  the 
medicine  restores  its  rhythm  to  the  arhythmical  heart,  rendering  the  pulse  slower,  fuller, 
tenser,  and  stronger.  It  augments  the  urinary  secretion  by  increasing  the  proportion  of 
water  in  it  while  diminishing  its  solid  ingredients.  The  observations  of  DaCosta  ( Phila . 
Med.  Times , xvii.  551),  Hermann  ( Therap . Gaz.,  xi.  215),  Albertoni  ( Centralhl . f Ther., 
v.  341),  Huchard  (Jour,  de  Med .,  Nos.  1 and  2,  1888),  Borgiotti  (Therap.  Gaz .,  xii.  854), 
and  Oliver  ( Lancet , Nov.  24,  1888)  agree  substantially  with  these  statements  and  with 
one  another,  but  it  would  seem  that,  as  in  the  case  of  digitalis  and  digitaline,  there  is  a 
difference  in  the  actions  of  the  herb  and  the  glucoside  of  adonis ; that  the  former  is  a 
cardiac  sedative  and  a diuretic,  while  the  action  of  the  latter  on  the  kidneys  appears  to 
be  less  than  that  of  the  former.  It  seems  also  to  differ  from  digitalis  in  exhibiting  no 
cumulative  action.  Huchard  pronounced  it  an  energetic  poison,  requiring  to  be  cautiously 
used,  and  considered  it  preferable  to  digitaline  only  where  a prompt  and  vigorous  action 
is  required.  On  the  other  hand,  Bubnoff,  Lublinski,  and  others  object  to  the  glucoside 
and  to  adonis  itself,  that  they  are  extremely  bitter,  and  more  apt  than  digitalis  and  digi- 
taline to  occasion  vomiting  and  diarrhoea,  while  they  admit  that  the  former  sometimes 
succeed  in  regulating  an  arhythmical  heart  when  the  latter  has  failed  to  do  so  (Therap. 
Gaz.,  1884,  p.  47  ; Med.  Record,  xxvi.  192  ; Bull,  de  Therap.,  cx.  63).  In  cardiac  dropsy 
it  therefore  palliates  all  the  symptoms  depending  upon  obstruction  of  the  heart — viz. 
those  due  to  the  heart  itself  and  those  occasioned  by  the  dropsy — and  measurably  it  has 
analogous  effects  in  renal  dropsy,  unless  the  effusion  is  very  large  and  the  kidney  lesion 
very  general.  The  same  is  true  of  it  in  hepatic  and  splenic  dropsy.  Adonis  is  useless 
in  functional  disease  of  the  heart.  The  infusion  is  made  with  from  Gm.  2-8  (gr.  xxx- 
cxx)  in  Gm.  150  (6  fluidounces)  of  water.  Bose,  a tablespoonful  every  one,  two,  or 
three  hours  (Bubnoff,  Centralhlatt  f.  Ther.,  i.  361).  Adonidin  is  generally  prescribed  in 
divided  doses,  beginning  with  Gm.  0.01  (gr.  J),  and  so  as  not  to  exceed  in  twenty-four 
hours  Gm.  0.02-0.03  (gr.  3-1),  but  some  have  found  that  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.02  (gr.  1) 
given  four  times  a day  it  had  an  excellent  effect  upon  the  circulation  and  upon  the  action 
of  the  kidneys. 

HEMIDESMI  RADIX,  JBr, — Hemidesmus-Root. 

Indian  sarsaparilla,  Nunnari,  E. ; Hemidesmus,  Fr.,  G.,  It.,  Sp. 

The  root  of  Hemidesmus  indicus,  R.  Brown  (Periploca  indica,  Willdenow  ; P.  emetica 


HEPATICA. 


811 


Retzius;  Asclepias  pseudo -sarsa,  Roxburgh).  Wight,  Icon.  Plant.  Ind.  Orient.,  ii.  p.  594; 
Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 174. 

Nat.  Ord. — Asclepiadaceae,  Periplocene. 

Origin. — This  slender  climbing  shrub  is  a native  of  the  Indian  peninsula,  growing  in 
uncultivated  places.  It  has  opposite  entire  leaves,  varying  between  linear-lanceolate  and 
ovate,  the  broadest  being  on  the  upper  branches,  axillary  clusters  of  small  purple  flowers, 
Ion"  linear  follicles,  and  numerous  seeds  with  tufts  of  slender  hairs. 

Description. — The  root  is  met  with  in  pieces  about  15  Cm.  (6  inches)  long  and  5 to 
15  Mm.  (4— | inch)  thick,  cylindrical,  tortuous,  longitudinally  wrinkled,  and  transversely 
fissured,  forming  annulations.  It  is  covered  with  a thin  dark-brown  corky  layer,  followed 
by  a whitish  mealy  thin  bark  containing  in  its  inner  layer  scattered  laticiferous  ducts. 
The  cambium-line  is  dark,  wavy,  and  the  wood  yellowish,  with  narrow  medullary  rays, 
which  are  best  observed  in  the  thin  roots.  Hemidesmus-root  has  an  agreeable  odor,  sug- 
gesting that  of  tonka,  and  a sweetish,  slightly  acrid,  not  unpleasant  taste. 

Constituents. — The  root  contains  starch,  and  in  the  suberous  layer  some  tannin. 
Scott  (1843)  obtained  a stearopten  by  distillation  with  water.  Its  other  constituents  are 
unknown. 

Allied  Plant. — Gymnema  sylvestre,  R.  Brown  (Asclepias  geminata,  Roxburgh ),  a native  of 
India  and  Africa,  is  a woody  climber,  bearing  small  yellow  flowers.  The  root  is  of  the  thick- 
ness of  a finger,  has  a spongy  reddish-brown  bark,  and  possesses  a saline  and  acrid  taste.  The 
leaves  are  4 to  7 Cm.  (1^-3  inches)  long,  entire,  elliptic  or  obovate,  thin,  coriaceous,  and  puberu- 
lent.  Besides  resins,  carbohydrates,  albuminous  and  coloring-matters,  D.  Hooper  (1887)  deter- 
mined the  presence  of  a neutral  bitter  principle,  tartaric  acid,  and  gymnemic  acid , the  latter 
somewhat  resembling  chrysophanic  acid. 

Action  and  Uses. — In  India,  whence  it  was  introduced  into  England,  this  medi- 
cine has  some  reputation  for  efficacy  in  the  constitutional  disorders  supposed  to  be  bene- 
fited by  sarsaparilla.  But  its  syrup,  which  is  also  officinal,  is,  like  the  syrup  of  sarsa- 
parilla, chiefly  used  as  a flavoring  ingredient  of  mixtures. 

Gymnema  sylvestre. — The  powdered  root  has  long  been  used  in  certain  parts  of 
Hindostan  as  a remedy  for  snake-bites.  The  leaves,  when  chewed,  have  the  curious 
property  of  suspending  for  several  hours  the  perception  of  sweet  and  bitter  tastes. 
These  properties  are  ascribed  to  the  gymnemic  acid  of  the  plant  (j Practitioner, 
xxxviii.  457). 


HEPATICA. — Liverwort. 

Herbe  de  hepatique , Fr.  ; Edelleberhraut , G. ; Hepatica,  Sp. 

The  leaves  of  Hepatica  triloba,  Chaix  (Hep.  nobilis,  Moench ; Anemone  Hepatica, 
Linne). 

Nat.  Ord. — Ranunculacese,  Anemoidese. 

Origin. — A perennial  acaulescent  herb  flowering  in  March  and  April,  and  indigenous 
to  Europe  and  North  America  south  to  Georgia,  growing  in  shady  woods.  The  flowers 
are  on  villous  scapes  10-15  Cm.  (4  to  6 inches)  long,  and  have  a three-leaved  involucre 
and  six  to  nine  petal-like  blue  or  purplish,  or  sometimes  white,  sepals.  The  radical  leaves 
are  the  portion  used ; the  loss  in  drying  amounts  to  from  70  to  75  per  cent. 

Description. — The  leaves  are  subcoriaceous,  smooth,  dark -green,  and  shining  above, 
paler  beneath,  broadly  heart-shaped  or  somewhat  kidney-shaped  in  outline,  and  divided 
into  three  lobes,  which  are  obtuse  or  rounded  (Hep.  americana,  De  Candolle)  or  pointed 
f Hep.  acutiloba,  De  Candolle).  A similar  distinction  is  also  observed  in  the  involucral 
leaves,  the  two  forms  being  probably  mere  varieties  of  one  species,  the  acute-lobed  pre- 
ferring a northern  exposure.  The  leaves  are  inodorous  and  have  an  insipid,  slightly 
astringent,  and  bitterish  taste. 

Constituents. — As  far  as  may  be  judged  from  the  sensible  properties,  liverwort 
does  not  appear  to  contain  any  important  characteristic  principle.  Mucilage,  sugar,  and 
a small  amount  of  tannin  are  present. 

Action  and  Uses. — Liverwort  passes  for  being  tonic  and  deobstruent.  It  once 
bad  a transient  vogue  in  the  treatment  of  chronic  bronchitis  and  phthisis.  But  its  medi- 
cinal value  is  very  small,  and  hardly  entitles  it  to  a place  in  the  materia  medica.  It  may 
be  given  freely  in  infusion. 


812 


HERA  CLE  UM.~  HIERA  Cl  UAL 


HER  ACLEUM. — Cow-Parsnip. 

Heracleum  lanatum,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Umbelliferse,  Orthospermae. 

Description. — The  cow-parsnip,  also  called  masterwort , is  a woolly  perennial  herb 
growing  from  1.5-3  M.  (5  to  10  feet)  high  in  most  of  the  northern  and  middle  parts  of 
the  United  States  westward  to  the  Pacific.  The  root  is  many-headed,  fleshy,  nearly  sim- 
ple, or  composed  of  many  thinner  branches,  12  Mm.  (2  inch)  or  less,  in  diameter, 
brownish  yellow  externally,  white  internally,  with  a rather  thick  bark  containing  resin- 
cells.  The  leaves  are  large,  ternately  dissected,  on  very  broad  and  sheathing  petioles, 
the  segments  often  25  Cm.  (10  inches)  long,  the  middle  one  usually  three-lobed.  The 
umbels  are  from  30  to  38  Cm.  (12-15  inches)  broad,  with  an  involucre  of  oblong  lance- 
olate leaves  and  involucels  composed  of  five  or  eight  lanceolate,  slender,  acuminate  leaves. 
The  flowers  are  white.  The  fruit  is  8 Mm.  (i  inch)  long,  oval,  flattened  on  the  back 
broadly  winged  on  the  margin,  each  mericarp  with  five  slender  ribs,  the  lateral  ones  being 
close  to  the  margin,  and  in  the  upper  half  with  six  clavate  oil-tubes,  two  of  which  are  on 
the  commissure.  All  parts  of  it  have  a rank  odor  and  a pungently  acrid  taste.  The  root, 
leaves,  and  fruit  have  been  employed. 

Heracleum  sphondylium,  Linne,  the  cow-parsnip  of  Europe  and  Northern  Asia 
(Berce,  Fausse  acanthe,  Fr. ; Baerenklaue,  6r.),  is  a similar  but  smaller  plant,  and  pos- 
sesses similar  properties. 

Constituents. — These  plants  appear  to  contain  volatile  oil  and  resin  ; their  acrid 
principles  have  not  been  investigated. 

Action  and  Uses. — In  their  fresh  state  the  leaves  and  also  the  root,  applied  to  the 
skin,  may  produce  vesication  and  have  been  used  as  counter-irritants.  Some  of  the 
European  species  are  still  more  irritant,  and  contain  a juice  which  has  been  applied  to 
loarts  as  an  escharotic.  The  American  plant  has  been  used  with  alleged  curative  effect 
in  epilepsy  apparently  depending  upon  gastro-intestinal  irritation.  It  is  given  both  in 
substance  and  in  infusion,  and  is  thought  to  correct  dyspeptic  disorder.  Gm.  4 (33)  of 
the  root  or  its  equivalent  in  infusion  may  be  taken  several  times  a day. 

HEUCHERA.— Alum-root. 

The  root  of  Heuchera  americana,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Saxifragacese. 

Origin. — This  is  a perennial  herbaceous  plant,  with  a tuft  of  orbicular-heart-shaped, 
slightly  lobed,  and  crenately-toothed  hairy  leaves  and  glandular  hairy  scapes  about  60 
Cm.  (2  feet)  high,  bearing  loose  panicles  of  small  flowers  with  short,  white,  narrow 
petals  and  exserted  stamens  and  styles.  It  is  common  in  rich  woodlands  of  the  United 
States  from  the  New  England  States  west  to  Wisconsin  and  the  Mississippi  and  south  to 
Georgia.  It  flowers  in  June,  and  the  root  is  probably  best  collected  in  September. 

Description. — The  root  is  about  15  Cm.  (6  inches)  long  and  about  12  Mm.’  (J  inch) 
thick,  with  several  short  cylindrical  heads  terminating  with  a concave  scar,  tapering,  and 
somewhat  branched  below,  and  beset  with  some  thin  radicles.  In  its  fresh  state  it  is 
fleshy ; when  dry,  irregularly  shrivelled,  tuberculate,  the  brittle  fibres  usually  broken  off. 
It  is  externally  of  a purplish-brown  color,  has  a thin  bark  and  a thick,  fleshy  meditul- 
lium  of  a pale-reddish  or  brownish  tint,  and  breaks  with  a short  somewhat  spongy  or 
granular,  not  fibrous  fracture,  often  showing  internal  cavities.  It  is  inodorous,  and  has  a 
strongly  astringent,  slightly  bitterish  taste.  The  rootlets  agree  with*  the  main  root  in 
color  and  taste,  but  have  a thick  bark  and  thin,  spongy  centre.  It  has  not  been  fully 
analyzed.  II.  K.  Bowman  (1869)  found  it  to  contain  from  18  to  20  per  cent,  of  tannin. 

The  root  of  Heuchera  villosa,  Michaux , and  probably  other  species  may  possess  virtues 
similar  to  those  of  the  above. 

Action  and  Uses. — Alum-root,  as  its  name  implies,  is  astringent.  It  is  sometimes 
used  in  domestic  medicine  as  a remedy  for  diarrhoea  and  menorrhagia , as  a mouth-wash 
for  aphthae,  and  as  an  application  to  ulcers , haemorrhoids , etc.  It  may  be  used  in  decoction. 

HIERACIUM.— Hawkweed. 

Eperviere,  Fr.  ; Habichtskraut,  G. 

Nat.  Ord. — Composite,  Cichoracese. 


HIPPOCASTANTJM. 


813 


Description. — The  following  species  have  been  used  : 

Hieracium  venosum,  Jjinne. — Rattlesnake-weed. — It  is  a perennial  herb,  common  in 
dry  woods  and  plains  of  North  America,  with  oblong-obovate,  purple-veined,  entire,  and 
scarcely  petiolate  radical  leaves,  and  with  a naked  or  one-leaved  smooth  scape  bearing  a 
loose  paniculate  corymb  of  yellow  flower-heads,  which  have  slender  peduncles,  a nearly 
cylindrical  involucre,  and  linear  akenes  with  a tawny,  fragile,  bristly  pappus.  The  plant 
is  inodorous,  and  has  a bitter  and  somewhat  acrid  taste. 

Hier.  gronovii,  Linne , likewise  a North  American  species  and  growing  in  similar 
localities,  has  a wand-like  simple  stem  which  is  leafy  and  hairy  below.  The  leaves  are 
petiolate,  lance-  or  obovate-oblong,  the  peduncles  slender,  and,  like  the  involucre,  gland- 
ular-pilose. The  akenes  are  tapering  at  the  summit.  This  and  the  next  species  are 
sometimes  used  for  toothache. 

Hier.  scabrum,  Linne. — It  is  stouter  than  the  preceding,  rough-hairy,  more  branched, 
the  involucre  glandular-hirsute  and  the  akenes  not  taper-pointed. 

Hier.  pilosella,  Linne. — Piloselle,  Oreille  de  souris,  Fr. ; Mauseohrchen,  G. — A 
European  plant,  with  white  hairy  leaves  and  a hairy,  naked,  or  one-leaved  scape.  Its 
taste  is  bitter  and  astringent. 

Hier.  murorum,  Linne. — Pulmonaire  des  Franyais,  Fr.  ; Gelbes  Lungenkraut,  G. — 
It  has  ovate,  pale-green,  sometimes  spotted  radical  leaves,  and  a hairy,  few-leaved  stem, 
bearing  several  yellow  flower-heads.  Its  taste  is  slightly  bitter  and  astringent.  It  has 
been  used  as  a vulnerary  and  in  pectoral  complaints. 

Prenanthes  (Harpalyce,  Don ) alba,  Linne,  s.  Nabalus  albus,  Hooker. — Rattle- 
snake-root.— Lion’s-foot,  White  lettuce,  Cancer-weed,  Gall  of  the  earth  ; this  North 
American  perennial  has  a purplish  and  glaucous  stem,  branched  above,  and  growing  from 
a tuberous,  spindle-shaped  root.  The  leaves  are  petiolate,  angular,  hastate,  the  radical 
ones  palmately  five-  or  seven-lobed,  those  of  the  stem  ovate  roundish  and  sinuate-toothed; 
the  flower-heads  are  in  loose,  racemose  cymes,  drooping,  have  a cylindrical  involucre,  with 
the  linear,  purplish,  and  white  scales  in  a single  row,  and  a few  bractlets  at  the  base,  and 
contain  from  eight  to  twelve  ochroleucous  or  purplish  florets,  with  linear-oblong,  striate, 
and  unbeaked  akenes,  and  a pale-brownish  pappus  composed  of  several  rows  of  rough 
hairs.  All  parts  of  the  plant  contain  a milky  juice  and  have  a bitter  taste.  No  analysis 
of  its  constituents  has  been  made. 

Action  and  Uses. — Although  hawkweed  has  been  used  in  several  diseases,  such 
as  scrofula  and  chronic  catarrh,  its  chief  claim  to  notice  rests  on  its  reputed  power  of 
curing  the  bites  of  venomous  snakes.  The  late  Hr.  Griffith  of  Philadelphia,  in  his  Medical 
Botany , relates  the  following  : “ Some  years  ago  a person  brought  a collection  of  rattle- 
snakes to  this  city,  and  professed  to  be  in  possession  of  a certain  cure  for  the  symptoms 
arising  from  their  bite,  which  he  offered  to  divulge  for  a moderate  compensation.  This 
being  paid  him,  he  suffered  himself  to  be  bitten  several  times,  and  after  the  poisonous 
effects  had  displayed  themselves  was  completely  relieved  by  taking  a few  ounces  of  the 
decoction  of  a plant  which  was  identified  as  Hieracium  venosum.  The  same  snake  was 
suffered  to  bite  a small  puppy,  which  died  from  the  poison  in  about  five  hours.  These 
experiments  were  made  in  the  presence  of  a number  of  distinguished  medical  and 
scientific  persons.”  It  appears  that  H.  Gronovii  has  been  employed  with  like  results 
( Ther . Gaz.,  xl.  566). 

HIPPOCASTANUM.— Horse-Chestnut. 

Marronnier  ( chataignier ) d Inde,  Fr.  ; Rosskastanie , G. ; Castagno  d India,  It. ; Castano 
de  Indias,  Sp. 

iEsculus  Hippocastanum,  Linne , s.  Hippocastanum  vulgare,  Gaertner. 

Nat.  Ord. — Sapindaceae,  Hippocastaneae. 

Origin. — The  horse-chestnut  is  a well-known  stately  tree  which  is  a native  of  Persia 
and  Northern  India,  became  known  in  Europe  in  the  latter  half  of  the  sixteenth  century, 
and  is  at  present  cultivated  as  an  ornamental  tree  and  grows  spontaneously  in  many 
countries  of  the  temperate  and  subtropical  zones.  The  bark  of  the  smaller  branches  and 
the  seeds  have  been  employed. 

Description. — The  bark  ( cortex  hippocastani,  cortex  castaneae  equinae ) is  thin, 
externally  of  a brown-gray  color,  has  some  small  scattered  warts,  and  shows  opposite 
leaf-scars,  which  have  the  lower  rounded  margin  marked  with  five  or  seven  small  warts. 
The  inner  surface  is  smooth  and  whitish,  the  internal  color  brownish.  The  inner  bark  is 
rather  tough,  breaks  with  a fibrous  fracture,  has  a slight  odor,  and  a bitter,  astringent 
taste. 


814 


HIRTJDO. 


The  seeds  are  subglobular,  smooth,  glossy,  reddish-brown  ; the  hilum  marked  by  a 
large  grayish  spot ; the  leathery  testa  enclosing  a white  embryy  with  two  hemispherical 
cotyledons,  having  a sweetish  and  bitter  acrid  taste.  By  prolonged  washing  the  starch 
may  be  obtained  pure. 

Constituents. — The  tannin  of  horse-chestnut  bark  colors  iron  salts  green.  Besides 
some  fat,  chlorophyll,  and  other  common  compounds,  the  bark  contains  aesculin,  C15II1609, 
and  fraxin  ( paviin ),  C16H18O10,  both  principles  being  inodorous,  of  a slightly  bitter  taste, 
and  showing  a blue  fluorescence  when  dissolved  in  water,  particularly  in  the  presence  of 
some  alkali.  iEsculin  is  obtained  by  precipitating  the  decoction  with  lead  acetate,  treat- 
ing the  filtrate  with  H2S,  evaporating,  and  recrystallizing.  It  forms  small  white  needles 
containing  1JH20,  which  are  insoluble  in  ether  and  have  a slight  acid  reaction  upon  lit- 
mus. On  boiling  with  dilute  acids  it  is  split  into  glucose  and  sesculetin.  Baryta  solution 
produces  the  same  decomposition,  and  then  yields  glucinic , opoglucinic , and  aesculetinic 
acids.  iEseuletin,  C9Hn04.H20,  crystallizes  in  colorless  needles,  is  with  difficulty  soluble 
in  cold  water  and  alcohol,  the  solutions  coloring  ferric  salts  dark -green,  dissolves  in  alka- 
lies with  a golden-yellow  color,  and  on  boiling  with  potassa  is  decomposed  into  oxalic, 
formic,  and  protocatechuic  acids.  Fraxin  is  obtained  by  precipitating  the  alcoholic  tinc- 
ture with  an  alcoholic  solution  of  lead  acetate,  diffusing  the  precipitate  in  water,  decom- 
posing by  hydrogen  sulphide  evaporating  over  sulphuric  acid  to  dryness,  and  remov- 
ing the  tannin  by  washing  wTith  ice-cold  water ; it  dissolves  in  alkalies  with  a yellow 
color,  colors  ferric  chloride  green,  and  then  produces  a lemon-yellow  precipitate. 

The  integuments  of  the  seeds  contain  some  aesculin  and  quercitrin , which  are  likewise 
present  in  the  flowers,  but  the  leaves  contain  yellow  quersescitrin.  The  cotyledons  con- 
tain, besides  starch  and  gummy  matter,  2 to  4 per  cent,  of  fixed  oil,  oleum  hippocastani , 
which  is  greenish-brown  or  yellow,  has  a turnip-like  odor,  a somewhat  bitter  taste,  and 
the  specific  gravity  .927,  and  congeals  near  the  freezing-point  of  water.  Argyrsescin  and 
aphrodsescin  are  two  amorphous  acrid  bodies  discovered  by  Bochleder  (1862),  which  are 
insoluble  in  ether,  soluble  in  alcohol,  and  yield  with  water  solutions  foaming  like  a soap 
solution  ; the  latter  is  precipitated  by  baryta-water,  and  boiled  with  alkalies  yields  buty- 
ric and  amorphous  sescinic  acids  ; the  former  is  a glucoside. 

iEscuLUS  Pavia,  Linne. — Bed  buckeye. — B.  C.  Batchelor  (1873)  obtained  from  the 
testa  tannin,  3 per  cent,  of  resin,  a tasteless  crystalline  principle,  and  coloring  matter. 
The  cotyledons  were  found  to  contain  5 per  cent,  of  greenish-brown  fixed  oil,  21  per  cent. 
cane-sugar  and  syrup,  and  a brownish,  bitter,  and  acrid  glucoside  different  from  argyraes- 
cin,  and  apparently  poisonous. 

Medical  Uses. — In  1787  Murray  ( Apparat . Med .,  iv.  62)  gave  a detailed  account 
of  the  utility  of  the  flowers,  leaves,  bark,  and  fruit;  spoke  of  the  virtues  of  the  last  in 
epilepsy,  of  its  powder  as  a sternutatory  and  as  a preventative  of  fermentation  and  putre- 
faction, and  of  the  bark  for  intermittent  fever.  According  to  him,  its  decoction  with 
lime-water  allays  inflammation,  heals  ulcers,  and  arrests  gangrene.  Much  more  recently 
it  was  asserted  that  the  bark  of  the  branches,  and  also  the  aesculin  obtained  from  it,  have 
cured  periodical  fevers  in  which  even  quinine  failed.  The  same  statement  is  made 
respecting  numberless  bitter  vegetable  products.  It  is  also  alleged  that  aesculin  will  cure 
neuralgia.  Oil  of  horse-chestnut  has  been  used  as  an  embrocation  for  joints  affected  with 
chronic  gout  or  rheumatism , with  the  same  effect,  probably,  as  any  other  bland  oil,  and  a 
decoction  of  the  leaves  has  had  some  reputation  as  a remedy  for  whooping  cough.  It  is 
said  to  be  still  employed  as  a popular  remedy  for  this  disease  (Amer.  Jour.  Phnrm.,  lix. 
152).  These  medicines  are  of  little  value — as  little,  probably,  as  the  entire  horse-chest- 
nut, to  which,  if  constantly  worn  in  the  pocket,  a vulgar  superstition  ascribes  the  power 
of  curing  haemorrhoids.  This  is  evidently  a survival  of  the  doctrine  of  signatures.  A 
decoction  may  be  prepared  with  Gm.  32-64  in  water  Gm.  500  (^i-ij  in  Oj),  boiled  for 
10  minutes.  Dose,  a wine-glassful.  iEsculin  may  be  given  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.30  (gr.  v). 

HIRUDO,  Br. — Leech. 

Hirudines , P.  A.,  P.  G. — Sangsue  medicinale , Fr.  Cod. ; Blutegel,  G. ; Sanguisuga , Mig- 
natta , F.  It. ; Sanguijuela , Sp. 

Sanguisuga  medicinalis,  Savigny,  and  Sang,  officinalis,  Savigny. 

Class  Vermes;  Ord.  Annulata ; Sub-ord.  Apoda ; Family  llirudineae. 

Description. — Leeches  are  invertebrate  animals  with  an  elongated,  roundish,  or 
somewhat  flattened  body,  which  has  numerous  transverse  wrinkles,  and  is  generally 
attenuate  toward  both  ends;  the  posterior  one  always  terminates  by  a broad  and  mus- 
cular disk,  by  means  of  which  the  animal  fastens  itself  upon  objects.  The  blood-sucking 


HIR  U DO. 


815 


leeches  have  their  anterior  end  or  head  likewise  terminated  by  a narrower  disk,  in  the 
centre  of  which  is  placed  the  mouth  containing  three  jaws,  which  are  provided  with  two 
rows  of  numerous  pointed  teeth,  and  are  mutually  inclined  at  an  acute  angle,  so  as  to 
make  a triangular  incision  through  the  skin.  Respiration  is  carried  on  through  small 
apertures  or  stigmata  arranged  in  two  rows  on  the  abdominal  surface  and  found  at  every 
fifth  ring.  Leeches  are  hermaphrodites,  but  mutually  impregnate  each  other.  Several 
pairs  of  testicles  are  located  in  the  fore  and  middle  part  of  the  body ; the  filiform  penis 
is  projected  from  an  abdominal  orifice  about  one-third  distant  from  the  head,  and  the 
female  organs  with  two  ovaries  have  their  aperture  or  vagina  five  rings  below  the  penis. 
The  ova  are  deposited  near  the  edge  of  the  water,  invested  with  a kind  of  a jelly  or 
mucus,  which  contracts  into  a capsular  or  cocoon-like  body  having  a spongy  appearance 
and  containing  about  ten  or  more  eggs.  Leeches  are  aquatic  animals,  and  swim  with  a 
vertical  undulating  motion.  For  medicinal  use  their  weight  should  be  between  1 and  5 
Gm.  (15  and  75  grains).  The  two  species  named  have  a soft  smooth  body,  5 Cm.  (2 
inches)  or  more  in  length,  and  have  the  back  of  an  olive-green  color,  with  six  rusty-red 
longitudinal  stripes,  which  are  sometimes  spotted  with  black. 

Sang.  (Hirudo,  Linne)  medicinalis,  Savigny , has  the  belly  greenish-yellow,  more  or 
less  spotted  with  black,  occasionally  to  such  an  extent  that  the  prevailing  color  is  black. 
The  animal  is  indigenous  to  Central  and  Northern  Europe,  and  is  known  in  commerce  as 
the  speckled , Swedish , or  German  leech. 

Sang,  officinalis,  Savigny  (Hirudo  pro vinci alis,  Carena ).  The  belly  is  light 

olive-green,  unspotted,  but  marked  with  a black  stripe  on  each  side ; the  dorsal  stripes 
are  somewhat  variable  in  width.  This  leech  is  indigenous  to  the  southern  part  of 
Europe,  and  is  known  in  commerce  as  the  green  or  Hungarian  leech. 

Several  other  species  of  Sanguisuga  of  Southern  Europe  are  occasionally  employed, 
but  are  not  an  article  of  commerce.  Leeches  are  generally  kept  in  ponds  by  the  whole- 
sale dealer,  and  even  cultivated  in  this  manner.  They  are  usually  transported  imbedded 
in  moist  turf. 

The  American  leech , Hirudo  decora,  Say,  which  draws  less  blood,  is  sometimes  employed. 
Its  back  is  of  a dark-green  color  and  marked  with  one  row  of  orange-brown  and  two  lat- 
eral rows  of  black  spots ; the  belly  is  of  a light  orange-brown  color  spotted  with  black. 

Preservation. — Leeches  require  some  attention  to  keep  them  healthy  and  in  good 
condition.  They  are  kept  in  clean  river-water  in  a glass  jar  covered  with  a linen  cloth 
and  put  in  a shady  place  which  is  free  from  ammoniacal  and  other  noxious  vapors.  The 
temperature  is  best  kept  between  about  10°  and  20°  C.  (50°  and  68°  F.),  sudden  changes 
being  carefully  prevented.  As  soon  as  the  water  begins  to  get  turbid  or  colored  the 
leeches  should  be  placed  in  clean  water  of  the  same  temperature  and  the  jar  well  cleaned 
from  the  slimy  deposit,  which  is  caused  by  the  transparent  epidermis  being  thrown  off 
every  four  or  five  days.  To  facilitate  this  removal  some  material  is  often  put  into  the 
jar  through  which  the  leech  may  draw  itself,  and  which,  by  retaining  this  slime,  will  tend 
to  keep  the  water  clean  ; charcoal,  pebbles,  clay  free  from  lime,  moss,  and  Irish  moss  have 
been  recommended  and  found  advantageous  for  the  purpose,  and  apparatuses  have  been 
constructed  in  which  leeches  may  be  kept  on  a bed  of  material  which  permits  of  a fre- 
quent renewal  of  the  water  without  handling  the  leeches.  If  they  are  kept  in  moist 
earth,  turf,  or  clay,  this  should  be  examined  from  time  to  time  and  dead  animals  removed. 
The  water  should  be  changed  at  least  once  a week,  and  oftener  in  warm  weather.  It 
will  be  observed  that  the  conditions  for  the  preservation  of  leeches  are  pure  air,  pure 
water,  and  a pretty  uniform  temperature.  Leeches  are  subject  to  several  diseases  which 
may  become  epidemic,  and  which  are  recognized  by  an  excessive  separation  of  mucus, 
ulcerations,  tumors,  or  a flaccid  appearance  of  the  body ; those  thus  attacked  should  be 
at  once  removed  from  the  healthy  ones,  and  placed  in  a separate  vessel  in  clean  water 
upon  a layer  of  washed  charcoal. 

Medical  History. — Leeches  have  been  used  from  time  immemorial  in  Asia,  but 
particularly  in  Bengal,  where  they  are  considered  the  best  means  of  local  depletion. 
They  are  especially  preferred  for  rayahs,  for  women  and  timid  persons,  and  for  the  very 
young  and  very  old  (Wise).  In  Greek  medicine  they  were  apparently  not  known  until 
a late  date,  the  first  mention  of  them  being  made  by  Themison,  who  lived  in  the  century 
preceding  the  Christian  era.  They  are  scarcely  alluded  to  by  Pliny,  who  flourished  a 
century  later  in  Rome,  but  subsequently  their  uses  were  described  by  all  the  Latin  and 
Arabian  medical  writers,  as  well  as  the  mode  of  applying  and  preserving  them  and  the 
accidents  that  may  occur  from  their  getting  into  the  throat  or  stomach. 

Action  and  Uses. — Depletion  by  leeches  is  by  no  means  identical  with  taking 


816 


HIRTJDO. 


blood  by  venesection,  even  in  its  action  upon  the  general  system,  for  the  rapidity  of 
the  loss  in  the  one  case  and  the  slowness  in  the  other  produce  quite  different  effects ; 
in  the  former  the  impression  is  direct  and  sudden,  in  the  other  indirect  and  gradual.  In 
their  local  action  the  difference  is  still  more  evident,  for  while  in  the  one  case  the  whole 
of  the  blood  is  despoiled  to  make  a limited  and  local  impression,  in  the  other  the  object 
is  attained  by  a very  small  loss  of  blood.  It  must  be  remembered  that  the  circulatory 
apparatus  is  not  a mere  hydraulic  machine,  but  that  the  blood-vessels,  and  especially  the 
capillaries,  are  endowed  with  a vital  contractility  which  may  be  modified  within  a limited 
area  and  excited  by  a local  irritation.  All  active  congestions  and  inflammations  are,  in 
their  origin,  local  diseases,  and  are  therefore  more  or  less  amenable  to  local  treatment,  of 
which  one  of  the  most  powerful  forms  is  the  abstraction  of  blood,  the  essential  pabulum 
of  all  inflammatory  processes.  Hence  the  utility  of  leeches  in  inflammations  in  whose 
immediate  neighborhood  these  animals  can  be  applied ; it  is  not  so  intelligible  when  they 
operate  upon  the  surface  of  the  body  immediately  over  inflamed  organs  which  have  no 
direct  communication  with  the  skin,  as  in  pneumonia,  metritis,  gastritis,  enteritis,  menin- 
gitis, etc.  The  mere  loss  of  so  small  a quantity  of  blood  as  they  abstract  from  the  gen- 
eral circulation  does  not  appear  to  be  a satisfactory  explanation.  The  superiority  of 
leeches  over  cups  as  a means  of  local  depletion  consists  not  only  in  the  advantages 
referred  to  above,  but  also  in  their  being  applicable  to  various  parts  to  which  cups  could 
not  be  applied,  as  the  eye,  the  mouth,  the  anus,  vagina,  etc. 

Large  leeches  should  be  used  only  when  blood  is  to  be  freely  abstracted  and  when  the 
part  is  not  very  sensitive  or  exposed.  The  wounds  they  make  are  apt  to  become  ecchy- 
mosed  and  leave  visible  scars.  Small  leeches  are  always  preferable  for  application  to  the 
face  and  neck,  for  the  reasons  just  given,  and  also  because  the  bleeding  from  their  wounds 
is  more  easily  controlled.  The  number  to  be  used  will  depend  upon  the  size  of  the  leeches, 
the  quantity  of  blood  to  be  abstracted,  and  the  vascularity  of  the  part.  The  part  to 
which  leeches  are  to  be  applied  should  be  thoroughly  washed  with  warm  water,  and  even 
with  hot  water,  if  it  is  not  sufficiently  vascular.  Sometimes  a hot-water  fomentation  is 
applied  to  stimulate  the  skin.  In  order  to  induce  the  animals  to  bite  it  is  customary  to 
moisten  the  part  with  sugared  water  or  milk  or  to  rub  it  with  a piece  of  raw  meat,  or  the 
leecher  pricks  the  part  with  a fine  needle  and  smears  the  blood  over  the.  skin,  or  he  draws 
from  his  own  finger  a drop  of  blood  for  this  purpose.  A common  method  of  applying 
leeches  to  a free  surface  is  to  put  them  in  a small  tumbler  or  wine-glass  and  invert  it 
over  the  part.  Others  place  the  creatures  in  a cup  and  direct  them,  as  they  crawl  over 
its  edge,  to  the  part  where  they  should  bite.  For  application  to  the  nostril,  throat,  or 
vagina  the  leech  may  be  enclosed  in  a tube  open  at  both  ends. 

A healthy  leech  of  medium  size  will  draw  from  1 to  2 fluidrachms  of  blood,  and  as 
much  more  will  usually  flow  after  the  animal  has  fallen.  When  a strong  and  rapid 
impression  is  to  be  made  by  leeches  the  number  applied  at  once  should  be  considerable, 
but  when  a slow  though  continuous  action  is  desired  a succession  of  them  may  be  used. 
This  is  often  the  case  in  traumatic  and  other  inflammations  within  the  cranium.  It  is  an 
ancient  custom,  instead  of  applying  many  leeches,  to  apply  one  or  two  or  a comparatively 
small  number,  and  when  they  are  nearly  gorged  to  puncture  their  bodies  near  the  tail 
with  a needle  or  fine  lancet,  when  they  will  often  continue  to  draw  blood  indefinitely.  In 
any  case  the  punctures  will  not  soon  cease  bleeding  if  they  are  kept  sponged  with  warm 
water.  Sometimes  there  is  a difficulty  in  stopping  the  flow  of  blood,  particularly  if  the 
wound  is  in  the  epigastrium,  on  the  neck,  or  on  some  other  part  where  firm  pressure  can- 
not readily  be  made.  The  various  haemostatics  may  here  be  applied,  several  of  them 
being  of  common  use  in  domestic  medicine,  such  as  scraped  lint,  burned  rag,  agaric,  cob- 
web, powdered  rosin,  India-rubber  softened  by  heat,  vinegar  and  water,  etc.  If  these  fail, 
or  in  their  stead,  a saturated  solution  of  alum  in  hot  water  may  be  applied  on  lint  while 
the  liquid  is  hot,  or  lint  saturated  with  a solution  of  perchloride  of  iron  or  of  tannic  acid, 
or  the  lunar-caustic  pencil  reduced  to  a fine  point,  may  be  inserted  in  the  wound,  or, 
finally,  the  point  of  a red-hot  knitting-needle  may  be  used  in  the  same  way.  In  all  these 
cases  the  action  of  the  haemostatic  should  be  aided  by  pressure  with  the  hand  or  with  a 
small  clamp  or  pincers  made  for  the  purpose,  or  by  passing  a needle  through  the  skin, 
including  the  wound,  and  surrounding  it  with  a ligature  in  the  form  of  a figure-of-eight. 
The  continued  flow  from  leech-bites  has  been  variously  explained.  The  investigations 
of  Haycraft  show  that  the  blood  sucked  by  the  leech  remains  liquid,  because  the  animal 
secretes  a ferment  that  prevents  its  coagulation  without  impairing  its  cell-organization 
(. Archiv f.  exp.  Pathol.,  etc.,  xviii.  209). 

Small  leeches  are  sometimes  taken  in  drinking-water,  and  attach  themselves  to  the 


HORDEUM  DECORTICATUM. 


817 


fauces  or  pharynx  ( Times  and  Gaz .,  Apr.,  1884,  p.  463),  and  have  even  penetrated  into 
the  larynx  and  fatally  obstructed  it.  A strong  gargle  of  salt  and  water  usually  suffices 
to  make  them  quit  their  hold,  and  vinegar  will  have  the  same  effect.  These  liquids  have 
been  used,  and  also  wine,  when  leeches  have  been  swallowed,  but  the  creatures  would 
probably  be  unable  to  live  under  the  action  of  the  gastric  juice.  In  some  cases,  and 
especially  when  the  leech  has  entered  the  larynx,  its  presence  has  been  discovered  by 
the  laryngeal  mirror,  and  in  several  cases  laryngotomy  has  been  performed  for  its 
removal  ( Times  and  Gaz.,  Apr.,  1884,  p.  463;  Therap.  Gaz.,  xii.  419).  The  case  is 
recorded  of  a leech  that  entered  the  urethra  and  caused  haemorrhage  {Jour.  Amer.  Med. 
Assoc.,  iv.  375). 

When  leeches  have  been  gorged  with  blood  they  are  not,  if  left  to  themselves,  fit  to  be 
used  again  for  several  months.  But  by  placing  them  in  a weak  solution  of  salt  and  water 
or  of  vinegar  and  water  they  may  be  made  to  disgorge  the  blood  they  have  swallowed, 
and  they  soon  regain  their  vigor  if  they  are  then  placed  in  fresh  water.  They  may  also 
be  emptied  of  their  blood  by  stripping  them.  Such  leeches  are  more  subject  to  disease, 
and  they  should  be  kept  separate  from  the  fresh  ones. 


HORDEUM  DECORTICATUM,  Br.— Pearl  Barley. 

Hordeum  perlatum. — Orge  perle,  Fr.  Cod.  ; Perlgerste , Perlgraupen , G. ; Orzo  perlado, 
F.  It. ; Cebada  perla,  Sp. 

Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants, 


The  husked  seeds  of  Hordeum  distichon,  Linne. 


Fig.  1 49. 


293. 

Nat.  Ord. — Graminaceae,  Hordeae. 

Origin. — Barley  is  probably  indigenous  to  Western  Asia,  and  has  been  cultivated 
from  a very  early  period.  It  is  now  raised  in  most  parts  of  the  temperate  zones,  and  in 
Europe  within  the  Arctic  Circle.  Besides  the  two-rowed  or  long-eared  barley,  Hord.  vul- 
gare,  Linne,  the  four-rowed  or  spring  barley,  and  H.  hexastichon,  Linne , or  six-rowed  bar- 
ley, are  the  principal  species  cultivated.  The  fruit  of  these  species  is  used  indiscrimin- 
ately in  the  preparation  of  malt,  and,  when  deprived  in  suitable  mills  of  the  integuments 
and  rounded  at  the  ends,  constitutes  the  officinal  pearl  barley. 

Description. — Pearl  barley  is  nearly  globular,  of  a white  color  and  mealy  appear- 
ance, with  the  exception  of  a groove  in  which  fragments  of  the  integuments  are  present. 
The  larger  pearls  still  contain  externally  a layer  of  gluten  ; the 
smaller  ones  consist  altogether  of  the  mealy  albumen,  and  are 
formed  of  a cellular  tissue  filled  with  starch-granules,  which 
resemble  wheat  starch,  and  are  made  up  of  small  and  large 
grains  with  few  intermediate  ones.  They  are  irregularly  cir- 
cular or  elliptical  in  shape,  with  the  nucleus  or  hilum  rarely 
perceptible  and  the  layers  indistinct.  Pearl  barley  is  inodor- 
ous and  has  an  insipid  taste. 

Constituents. — The  average  of  the  various  analyses  made 
by  different  chemists  gives  to  barley  60  to  68  per  cent,  starch, 

12  to  16  per  cent,  of  protein  compounds  consisting  of  gluten  and 
albumen,  2 to  3 per  cent,  of  oil,  the  same  of  ash,  10  to  14  per 
cent,  of  moisture,  and  8 to  12  per  cent,  of  cellulose.  Lermer  (1863)  found  also  traces  of 
tannin  and  bitter  principle,  and  Lintner  (1868)  a little  cholesterin.  Kuhnemann  (1875) 
showed  the  absence  of  dextrin,  and  the  presence  of  sinistrin  and  crystallizable  sugar, 
the  latter  being,  in  heated  or  germinating  barley,  converted  into  uncrystallizable  sugar, 
reducing  Fehling’s  solution.  O’Sullivan  (1882)  showed  the  presence  of  several  carbo- 
hydrates ; and  Mills  and  Pettigrew  (1882)  observed  that  water  containing  calcium  car- 
bonate or  sulphate  dissolves  from  barley  an  increased  amount  of  extractive  matter,  while 
the  albuminoids  are  decreased.  Proust’s  hordein  was  proven  by  Braconnot  and  Guibourt 
to  be  a mixture  of  cellular  tissue,  starch,  and  gluten.  The  fat  contained  in  barley, 
according  to  Hanemann,  consists  of  glycerides  of  palmitic  and  lauric  acids,  the  latter 
being  Beckmann’s  (1855)  hordeic  acid. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparations. — Farina  hordei  praiparata  is  prepared  by 
heating  barley  flour  in  a well-closed  vessel  in  a steam-bath  for  thirty  hours.  It  is  a 
yellowish  or  pale-reddish  powder,  having  a sweetish  and  mucilaginous  taste,  and  contains 
dextrin  and  other  derivatives  of  starch  and  of  gluten. 

Action  and  Uses. — From  the  earliest  times  barley  has  been  used  not  only  as  food, 
but  to  prepare  drinks  for  the  sick,  especially  in  febrile  diseases  and  in  pulmonary  and 


Barley  starch-granules. 


818 


HUM  ULUS. 


urinary  disorders.  Jacobi  recommends  the  addition  of  barley  mucilage  to  all  the  milk  used 
by  children  who  are  brought  up  by  hand.  Barley  is  now  seldom  employed  externally,  but 
continues  to  be  given  internally  and  for  the  same  purposes  as  of  old.  The  addition  of 
honey  makes  barley-water  more  efficient  in  bronchial  affections  and  sore  throat.  Formulae 
for  preparing  it  are  given  under  Decoctum  Hordei. 


HUMULUS,  U.  8.— Hops. 

Lupulus , Br. ; Strobili  humnli , s.  lupuli. — Hop,  E. ; Houblon , Fr.  Cod. ; Hopfen , G. ; 
Lupudo , Hombrecilles,  Sp. 

The  strobiles  of  Humulus  Lupulus,  Linne.  Steph.  and  Church,  Med.  Bot.,  plate  41  ; 
Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 230. 

Nat.  Ord. — Urticaceae,  Cannabineae. 

Origin. — The  hop  is  distributed  over  a great  portion  of  the  northern  temperate  zone, 
and  has  been  introduced  into  Brazil  and  Australia.  It  grows  in  hedges  and  thickets,  and 
is  indigenous  to  North  America,  where  it  is  particularly  common  in  the  northern  and 
western  regions,  and  is  found  in  the  Sierra  Madre  range  of  Colorado  at  an  altitude  of 
10,000  feet ; it  is  met  with  also  in  Middle  and  Southern  Siberia  and  throughout  the 
greater  portion  of  Europe.  It  is  perennial,  producing  rough,  long,  and  twining  stems, 
which  have  the  leaves  mostly  opposite,  heart-shaped,  and  three-  to  five-lobed.  The  sta- 
minate  flowers  are  in  short  racemes,  and  the  pistillate  flowers  in  densely-leafy,  cone-like 
spikes  upon  different  plants  ; the  spikes  or  strobiles  are  the  parts  used. 

Description. — The  strobiles  are  ovate  in  shape  25-38  Mm.  (1  to  1?  inches)  longi 
and  consist  of  a grayish,  hairy,  zigzag-shaped,  somewhat  glandular  axis,  to  the  angles 
of  which  the  enlarged  leafy  bracts  and  scales  are  attached ; these  are  obliquely  ovate, 
membranous,  parallel-veined  below,  reticulately  veined  above,  and  at  the  base  glandular 
and  surrounding  a subglobular  akene,  which  is  likewise  covered  with  numerous  yellow 
and  shining  glands  ( lupulin ).  Hops  are  of  a yellowish-green  color,  of  an  agreeable  aro- 
matic odor,  and  of  a bitter,  aromatic,  slightly  astringent  taste.  When  kept  for  some  time 
hops  acquire  a brownish  color,  and  an  unpleasant  odor  from  the  formation  of  some  vale- 
rianic acid ; these  changes  are  prevented,  or  at  least  retarded,  by  exposure  to  sulphurous 
acid  gas,  and  the  color  of  brown  hops  is  to  some  extent  restored  by  the  same  means. 

(For  an  account  of  the  culture  of  hops  in  the  United  States  consult  papers  by  W.  H. 
Bamsey  in  Amer.  Jour.  Phar .,  1875,  p.  241,  and  E.  G.  Bissell,  1877,  p.  538.)  In  the 
fiscal  year  1876-77,  20,177  pounds  of  hops  were  imported  into  the  United  States,  and 
874,559  pounds  in  1882. 

Constituents. — Besides  the  principles  contained  in  the  yellow  glands  (see  Lupu- 
linum),  hops  contain  about  4 per  cent,  of  tannin , which,  according  to  B.  Wagner,  resem- 
bles moritannic  acid.  Bissell  (1877),  however,  found  its  behavior  to  mineral  acids  entirely 
distinct,  and  noticed  that  only  a small  portion  of  it  is  precipitated  by  gelatin.  Bowman 
(1869)  obtained  by  means  of  this  reagent  3.67  per  cent,  of  tannin.  Hops,  entirely  freed 
from  lupulin,  gave  to  Bissell,  with  water,  a neutral  distillate  having  an  odor  distinct  from 
that  of  hops,  and  containing  mere  traces  of  organic  matter;  the  extract  was  but  slightly 
bitter.  Hops  contain  0.8  per  cent,  of  volatile  oil  (B.  Wagner,  1853),  between  9 and  18 
per  cent,  of  resin  (Siewert,  1870),  some  trimethylamine,  and  a volatile  alkaloid,  lupidine 
(Griessmayer,  1874)  ; this  alkaloid  is  liquid,  has  a strong  coniine-like  odor  and  an  alkaline 
not  bitter  taste,  and  gives  with  phosphomolybdic  acid  a white  or  yellow  precipitate  which 
dissolves  with  a blue  color  in  an  excess  of  ammonia.  Sacc  (1876)  asserted  that  hops 
contain  a peculiar  fermentative  principle,  which  was  disproven  by  Soxhlet  and  Pasteur 
(1876).  C.  G.  Wheeler  (1865)  found  hops  to  contain  1.7  per  cent,  of  nitrogen,  and  to 
yield  7 to  10  per  cent,  of  ash,  in  which  potassa,  lime,  phosphoric  acid,  and  silica  predom- 
inate. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  association  in  hops  of  a bitter  tonic  with  a direct  seda- 
tive of  abnormal  nervous  action  renders  them  peculiarly  fitted  to  relieve  those  numerous 
cases  of  dyspepsia  which  are  due  to  an  abuse  of  the  stomach  which  both  irritates  and 
exhausts  it.  Hence  at  one  time  they  were  celebrated  in  the  treatment  of  atonic  govt,  a 
disease  in  which  such  conditions  are  prominent.  These  qualities  also  explain  their  repu- 
tation in  the  treatment  of  the  forms  of  constitutional  derangement  which  exists  m 
scrofula,  and  rickets  when  anaemia,  glandular  swellings,  cutaneous  eruptions,  and  dropsy, 
especially  of  the  abdomen,  are  present.  Ilop-tea  is  one  of  the  best  remedies  for  delirium 
tremens,  tending  to  restore  its  tone  to  the  irritated  and  exhausted  stomach,  and  directly 
to  allay  the  characteristic  nervous  excitement  of  the  attack.  In  various  affections 


HIJRA. 


819 


attended  with  genitourinary  irritation,  as  priapism,  seminal  emissions,  nocturnal  inconti- 
nence of  urine,  and  irritable  bladder,  hops  are  often  salutary.  As  an  external  application 
to  relieve  the  pain  of  muscular  rheumatism,  abscesses,  spasms,  toothache,  colic,  bruises,  etc., 
hops  form  an  excellent  application.  They  may  be  incorporated  in  a poultice,  or  the  stro- 
biles, enclosed  in  a bag,  may  be  moistened  with  hot  water,  vinegar,  or  alcohol,  and  applied 
to  the  painful  part.  In  this  way  hops  are  often  associated  with  chamomile,  thyme,  lav- 
ender, mint,  etc.  The  infusion  of  hops  is  the  best  preparation  for  internal  use,  although 
so  much  more  bulky  than  the  tincture  or  the  fluid  extract  of  lupulin.  Its  dose  is  Gm. 
32-64  (f^j-ij).  A pure  and  strongly  hopped  beer  contains  all  the  virtues  of  this  agent, 
but  ordinary  malt  liquors  are  too  often  fraudulently  adulterated  to  deserve  such  praise. 

A drug  called  “ hopine,”  and  which  was  alleged  to  be  the  alkaloid  of  American  wild 
hops,  proved  to  be  an  artificial  product  whose  chief  ingredient  was  morphine. 

HURA.— Sand  Boxtree. 

Sablier , Fr. ; Sandbiichsenbaum,  G. 

Nat.  Ord. — Euphorbiaceae. 

Description. — The  following  species  have  attracted  some  attention  : 

Hura  crepitans,  Linne,  indigenous  to  the  West  Indies  and  Central  and  some  portions 
of  South  America,  and  known  there  as  ajuapar.  It  is  a straight  tree,  about  21  M.  (70 
feet),  high,  with  long  petiolate,  cordate-ovate,  and  serrate  smooth  leaves,  pendulous  ovate 
staminate  catkins,  erect  dark-red  or  purple  pistillate  flowers,  and  depressed  globular 
twelve-  to  eighteen-celled  capsules,  which  when  ripe  break  with  some  violence,  scattering 
the  roundish  flattened  seeds,  which  have  an  agreeable  sweetish  taste.  The  tree  contains 
a very  acrid  milk-juice.  The  leaves,  steeped  in  oil,  are  used  in  rheumatic  complaints. 
In  Mexico  the  seeds  are  known  as  habilla  ( pepita ) de  San  Ignacio , and  are  used  for  their 
drastic  properties. 

Hura  brasiliensis,  Willdenow,  known  in  Brazil  as  assacou  or  ussacu,  resembles  the 
preceding  in  appearance  and  properties,  but  has  oblong  catkins.  The  thick,  hard,  grayish, 
inodorous,  and  slightly  acrid  bark,  casca  de  assacou,  is  employed  in  South  America. 

Constituents. — Boussingault  and  Rivero  (1825)  ascertained  that  one  of  the  acrid 
principles  of  the  milk-juice  is  oily  and  volatile — the  other,  hurin,  is  crystallizable  ; the 
other  constituents  found  were  malates,  nitrates,  etc.  Bonastre  found  in  the  integuments 
of  the  seeds  much  coloring  matter,  tannin,  and  gallic  acid,  and  in  the  kernel  51  per  cent, 
of  fixed  oil  soluble  in  alcohol,  solid  fat,  albumen,  and  salts.  The  oil  is  purgative. 

Allied  Plant. — Hippomane  mancinella,  Linne. — Manchineel,  E. — A large  West  Indian  tree, 
with  ovate,  acute,  finely  serrate  leaves.  The  fruit  resembles  a small  apple  in  size  and  color,  is 
internally  white  and  soft-fleshy,  and  contains  from  three  to  seven  woody  cells,  each  with  a 
roundish-triangular  silvery  seed.  All  parts  contain  an  acrid  poisonous  milk-juice  ; the  poisonous 
principle  appears  to  be  volatile.  Ricord-Madianna  (1827)  found,  in  addition  to  this  mancinellin, 
volatile  oil,  fat,  resin,  caoutchouc,  and  gummy  matter. 

Action  and  Uses. — Like  several  other  Euphorbiaceae,  hura  is  a powerful  irritant, 
and  taken  internally  in  large  doses  occasions  violent  vomiting  and  purging.  For  these 
reasons,  probably,  it  has  been  used  as  an  anthelmintic.  Applied  to  the  skin  in  decoction, 
it  causes  irritation  and  even  vesication.  In  Brazil,  where  it  is  native,  it  is  much  used  in 
the  treatment  of  leprosy,  but  there  is  no  evidence  of  its  having  cured  the  disease.  It  is 
given  in  the  form  of  a decoction,  made  by  boiling  half  an  oujice  of  the  bark  in  a pint  of 
water  to  half  a pint  (Gm.  16  in  Gm.  500).  Baths  made  with  a saturated  infusion  of  the 
bark  are  also  employed.  It  is  almost  unnecessary  to  add  that  neither  this  medicine  nor 
any  other  ever  cured  leprosy,  and  that  the  use  of  a drastic  medicine  like  hura  cannot  fail 
to  hasten  the  inevitable  progress  of  the  disease. 

Manchineel  was  early  described  as  a fatal  poison.  If,  say  the  authors  of  the 
History  of  the  Antilles,  (2d  ed.,  1665,  p.  257),  the  fruit  falls  into  the  water  and  is  eaten 
by  fish,  they  invariably  die.  Land-crabs  are  rendered  poisonous  by  eating  it.  The  juice 
of  the  tree  blisters  the  skin,  and  a single  drop  of  it  in  the  eye  occasions  a violent  inflam- 
mation. Dew  or  rain  dripping  from  the  leaves  produces  a similar  effect.  Sleeping  under 
the  tree  will  cause  the  whole  body  to  swell.  The  aborigines  used  the  juice  to  poison 
their  arrows.  Later  observations  and  experiments  have  for  the  most  part  confirmed  these 
statements,  and  shown  that  the  fruit,  and  also  the  juice  of  the  tree,  when  taken  inter- 
nally, are  emeto-cathartic  and  inflame  the  alimentary  canal  (Wibmer,  Die  Wirkung,  etc., 
1837,  iii.  20).  More  recently  a writer  has  corroborated  the  original  accounts  of  the 
poisonous  qualities  of  manchineel  ( XIX  Century,  May,  1888,  p.  683). 


820 


HYDRANGEA.— HYDRARGYRI  CHLORIDUM  CORROS1VUM. 


HYDRANGEA.— Hydrangea. 

The  root  of  Hydrangea  arborescens,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Saxifragaceae,  Hydrangeae. 

Origin  and  Description. — The  wild  hydrangea  grows  near  the  banks  of  rivers, 
preferring  rocky  places,  from  Pennsylvania  westward  to  Illinois  and  southward.  It  has 
a pale-brown,  internally  whitish,  woody,  and  much-branching  root,  which  is  of  a sweetish 
and  pungent  taste.  The  stem  has  a grayish,  or  on  the  branches  a light  reddish-brown, 
bark,  which  is  detached  in  thin  concentric  layers,  from  which  circumstance  the  shrub  is 
known  as  seven  harks.  The  leaves  are  opposite,  nearly  smooth,  ovate,  pointed,  rounded 
or  slightly  heart-shaped  at  the  base  and  serrate  on  the  margin.  The  flowers,  which 
appear  in  July,  are  in  flat  cymes,  whitish,  the  marginal  ones  often  sterile  and  radiant, 
with  four  or  five  petals,  and  stamens  twice  that  number.  The  fruit  is  a two-celled  and 
two-beaked  capsule,  containing  numerous  seeds. 

Constituents. — Nothing  is  known  about  the  principles  to  which  the  medicinal  prop- 
erties of  the  root  might  be  due.  Laidley’s  analysis  (1850)  merely  proves  the  presence 
of  the  common  vegetable  principles — gum,  starch,  resin,  etc. 

Action  and  Uses. — We  are  told  that  hydrangea-root  was  employed  by  the  Cherokee 
Indians  for  the  relief  of  calculous  complaints,  and  that  when  duly  administered  to  persons 
suffering  from  urinary  concretions  in  the  kidneys  and  bladder  it  provokes  their  dis- 
charge. We  are  also  informed  that  in  over-doses  it  occasions  vertigo,  oppression  of  the 
chest,  etc.  ( V.  S.  Dispensatory , 12th  ed.).  If  these  qualities  really  belong  to  the  med- 
icine, it  presents  the  singular  case  of  being  at  once  diuretic  and  narcotic.  However  this 
may  be,  there  seems  to  be  good  reason  to  believe  that  hydrangea  has  been  found  useful 
in  gravel  and  its  associate  disorders.  In  1880  it  was  reported  that  the  fluid  extract  had 
“ a solvent  effect  on  lithate  of  ammonia,”  and  in  the  following  year  that  it  put  an  end  to 
attacks  of  renal  colic  which  had  beset  a patient  for  years  (Edson).  A little  later  several 
aggravated  cases  of  this  affection  were  reported  by  N.  F.  Brown,  in  which  the  medicine 
seemed  to  be  perfectly  successful  (Med.  Record , xvii.  471  ; xx.  652  ; xxi.  39).  The 
best  form  in  which  it  can  be  administered  is  a fluid  extract,  which  may  be  given  in  tea- 
spoonful doses. 

HYDRARGYRI  CHLORIDUM  CORROSIVUM,  V.  8.— Corrosive 

Mercuric  Chloride. 

Hydrargyri  perchlondum , Br. ; Hydrargyrum  bichloratum , P.  G.  ; Hydrargyrum  muri- 
aticum  corrosivum , Hydrargyrum  corrosivum  suhlimatum , Hydrargyri  bichloridum , Subhma- 
tus  corrosivus , Suhlimatum  corrosivum , Mercurius  suhlimatus  corrosivus,  Chloruretum  ( Cl  do- 
return)  hydrargyricum. — Mercuric  chloride , Perchloride  of  mercury , Corrosive  sublimate , 
Bichloride  of  mercury , E. ; Deutochlorure  de  mercure , Sublime  corrosif  Chlorure  mercu- 
rique , Fr.  ; Quecksilberchlorid  JEtzendes  Quecksilbersublimat,  G. 

Formula  HgCl2.  Molecular  weight  270.54. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Mercuric  Sulphate  20  ounces;  Sodium  Chloride  dried,  16 
ounces  ; Black  Manganese  Oxide  in  fine  powder,  1 ounce.  Beduce  the  mercuric  sulphate 
and  the  sodium  chloride  each  to  fine  powder,  and,  having  mixed  them  and  the  manganese 
oxide  thoroughly  by  trituration  in  a mortar,  put  the  mixture  into  an  apparatus  adapted 
for  sublimation,  and  apply  sufficient  heat  to  cause  vapors  of  perchloride  of  mercury  to 
rise  into  the  less  heated  part  of  the  apparatus,  which  has  been  arranged  for  their  conden- 
sation.— Br. 

Mercuric  chloride  is  formed  by  the  mutual  decomposition  of  mercuric  sulphate  and 
sodium  chloride  ; HgS04+2NaCl  yields  HgCl2-(-Na2S04.  By  heat,  mercuric  sulphate  is 
partly  decomposed  (see  Hydrargyri  Sulphas),  and  the  product  of  the  above  process  is 
thereby  apt  to  become  contaminated  with  mercurous  chloride  or  calomel ; to  prevent  such 
a result,  the  British  Pharmacopoeia  directs  the  addition  of  a little  manganese  dioxide, 
which,  reacting  with  some  of  the  sodium  salt,  generates  chlorine  sufficient  to  reconvert 
any  mercurous  into  mercuric  salt.  On  conducting  the  vapors  into  a large  chamber  they 
are  condensed  in  the  form  of  a heavy  white  crystalline  powder. 

Properties. — Corrosive  sublimate  forms  colorless  rhombic  prismatic  crystals,  or, 
more  generally  heavy  white  crystalline  masses.  It  has  the  density  5.4,  and  when  heated 
to  about  265°  C.  (509°  F.)  fuses  to  a colorless  liquid,  and  at  a higher  temperature  sub- 
limes without  leaving  any  residue.  It  is  permanent  in  the  air,  is  inodorous,  has  a dis- 


HYDRARGYRI  CHLORIDUM  CORROSTVUM. 


821 


Fig.  150. 


Crystal  of  Corrosive  Sublimate. 


agreeable  acrid  metallic  taste,  and  dissolves  in  about  2 parts  of  boiling  water  and  16 
parts  of  water  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  ; also  in  3 parts  (2.3  parts,  Simon)  of  alcohol,  in  4 
parts  of  ether,  freely  in  volatile  oils,  in  1.2  parts  of  boiling  alcohol  and  about  14  parts 
of  glycerin  (U.  S.).  In  the  presence  of  camphor  the  solu- 
bility is  increased,  so  that  4 parts  of  ether  and  16  parts  of  cam- 
phor will  dissolve  8 parts  of  corrosive  sublimate,  and  4 parts 
of  alcohol,  with  25  parts  of  camphor,  will  dissolve  16.5  parts 
of  corrosive  sublimate  (Karls,  1827 ; Simon,  1836).  The 
aqueous  solution  has  an  acid  reaction,  becomes  neutral  on  the 
addition  of  sodium  chloride,  and  when  exposed  to  the  light  is 
partly  decomposed,  with  the  precipitation  of  calomel  and  the 
liberation  of  hydrochloric  acid  ; the  decomposition  is  prevented 
by  the  presence  of  free  hydrochloric  acid  or  of  ammonium 
chloride.  The  aqueous  solution  yields  yellow  precipitates  of 
mercuric  oxide  with  an  excess  of  lime-water  (see  Lotio 
Hydrargyri  Flay  a)  or  potassa  solution,  a white  precipitate 
of  ammoniated  mercury  with  ammonia,  and  on  the  addition  of 
silver  nitrate  a white  curdy  precipitate  of  silver  chloride,  insol- 
uble in  nitric  acid,  but  soluble  in  ammonia.  Phosphorous  and 
sulphurous  acids  separate  calomel  from  the  solutions;  hypophosphorous  acid  and  stannous 
chloride  produce  the  same  change,  but  when  in  excess  and  heated  liberate  metallic  mer- 
cury. The  salt  is  soluble  without  decomposition  in  sulphuric,  hydrochloric,  or  nitric  acid, 
and  crystallizes  again  on  cooling.  Solutions  of  albumen  or  of  tannin,  forming  insoluble 
compounds,  are  used  as  antidotes  to  corrosive  sublimate. 

Tests. — Corrosive  sublimate  should  volatilize  when  heated  without  leaving  any  resi- 
due (absence  of  fixed  impurities),  and  should  be  completely  soluble  in  water  or  alcohol 
(absence  of  calomel).  It  often  contains  traces  of  arsenic,  which  are  probably  derived 
from  the  sulphuric  acid  with  which  the  sulphate  was  prepared  ; this  may  be  readily 
detected  by  mixing  the  solution  with  an  excess  of  potassa  solution,  adding  some  zinc,  and 
heating,  the  test-tube  being  covered  with  filtering-paper  moistened  with  a drop  of  solu- 
tion of  silver  nitrate  ; the  appearance  of  a black  spot  indicates  arsenic.  “ If  a saturated, 
aqueous  solution  of  the  salt  be  heated  nearly  to  boiling,  then  completely  saturated 
with  hydrogen  sulphide,  and  allowed  to  stand  in  a well-corked  flask  for  several  hours,  it 
should  afford  a colorless  filtrate  which,  on  evaporation,  should  leave  no  residue  (absence 
of  many  foreign  salts.)  If  the  precipitated  mercuric  sulphide  obtained  in  the  last-men- 
tioned test  be  washed  with  water,  then  shaken  for  a few  minutes  with  ammonia-water, 
and  filtered,  the  colorless  filtrate,  on  the  addition  of  a slight  excess  of  hydrochloric  acid, 
should  afford  neither  a yellow  color,  nor  a yellow  precipitate  (absence  of  arsenic ).” — LJ.  S., 
P.  G.  This  test  for  arsenic  depends  upon  the  solubility  of  arsenic  sulphide  in  ammo- 
nia-water, and  its  subsequent  precipitation  by  hydrochloric  acid,  mercuric  sulphide 
being  insoluble  in  ammonia. 

Action  and  Uses. — A solution  of  1 part  of  this  salt  in  1000  of  water  prevents 
the  germination  of  seeds  and  the  communicability  of  the  vaccine  virus,  and  destroys  the 
life  of  plants,  leeches,  and  fish  immersed  in  it.  Marcy’s  experiments  led  him  to  conclude 
that  no  other  agent  possesses  a germicide  power  equal  to  that  of  corrosive  sublimate. 
“To-day,”  he  remarks,  “it  clearly  ranks  first  of  all  the  known  agents  as  a disinfectant” 
(Jour.  Am.  Med.  Assoc.,  i.  199).  Investigation  by  experiment  has  proved  that  the  con- 
tinued use  of  all  mercurials  induces  diuresis  (Rosenheim,  Zeitschrift  f.  hlin.  Med.,  xiv. 
170),  and  this  result  has  been  confirmed  clinically  (e.  g.  Centralb.  f.  Ther.,  v.  476 ; vi. 
716).  In  the  connective  tissue  corrosive  sublimate  is  absorbed,  and  occasions  the  same 
symptoms  and  lesions  of  gastro-intestinal  inflammation  as  if  it  had  been  given  by  the 
mouth.  The  symptoms  include  gastric  pain,  thirst,  vomiting  of  mucus  and  blood,  and 
death  by  convulsion  or  exhaustion.  The  lesions  vary  from  slight  redness  to  complete 
softening  of  the  mucous  membrane  of  the  stomach ; similar  ones,  with  the  addition  of 
eschars,  ecchymoses,  and  ulcers,  may  be  found  in  the  intestine,  and  especially  in  the 
rectum. 

Poisoning  by  corrosive  sublimate  may  be  produced  by  its  external  application  as  well 
as  by  its  being  taken  internally.  A solution  of  it  applied  to  the  unbroken  skin  has 
repeatedly  caused  symptoms  of  poisoning,  such  as  an  acrid  taste  in  the  mouth,  irritation 
of  the  oesophagus,  vomiting,  epigastric  pain,  constriction  of  the  chest,  and  a small  and 
irregular  pulse.  We  have  known  a strong  solution  of  corrosive  sublimate  applied  for 
many  weeks  and  extensively  to  the  sound  skin  occasion  a copious  diuresis,  (which  only 


822 


BYDRARGYRI  CBLORIDUM  CORROSIVUM. 


ceased  with  the  suspension  of  the  lotion),  and  at  the  same  time  a looseness  of  the  bowels 
which  recurred  at  intervals  for  years.  Hospital  nurses  have  been  salivated  and  other- 
wise poisoned  by  applying  the  solution  used  to  disinfect  wounds,  etc.  ( e . g.  Phila.  Med. 
Times , xiv.  952).  When  the  skin  is  not  whole  the  same  and  more  aggravated  effects 
arise,  including  those  of  severe  local  irritation  of  an  eczematous  nature,  and  the  absorp- 
tion of  mercury  is  sometimes  proved  by  the  salivation  that  ensues,  and  sometimes  by 
a deposit  of  mercury  upon  articles  of  gold  worn  next  the  skin. 

The  use  of  corrosive  sublimate  as  a disinfectant  in  surgery  and  obstetries  has  occasioned 
many  grave  and  fatal  accidents.  In  1884,  Mikulicz  recorded  cases  of  poisonous  effects 
produced  in  physicians,  patients,  and  nurses  by  irrigating  solutions  of  1 : 1000  and 
1 : 2000.  Often  albuminuria  was  developed.  Frankel  collected  fourteen  cases  of  death 
from  this  cause.  In  all  of  them  inflammation,  ulceration,  or  gangrene  of  the  large  intes- 
tine was  found  ( Virchow's  Archiv , xcix.  2).  Demme,  Belfield,  and  others  have  reported 
like  cases  ( Centralbl.  f.  Ther .,  iv.  330;  Jour.  Amer.  Med.  Assoc.,  vii.  273).  Peabody 
reported  eleven  cases,  of  which  seven  were  fatal  (. Med . Record , xxvii.  291),  and  Garrigues 
stated  that  he  had  collected  22  cases  of  death  from  this  cause  in  obstetrical  practice 
(. Boston  Med.  and  Burg.  Jour.,  Oct.  1889.  p.  434.  Compare  also  Keller,  Med.  Record,  xxviii. 
516  ; Stadtfeld,  Boston  Med.  and  Burg.  Jour.,  July,  1884,  p.  93  ; Winter,  Therap.  Gaz., 
viii.  555;  Fleischmann,  ibid.,  xi.  126;  Clark,  Med.  Record,  xxx.  345;  Virchow,  Prac- 
titioner, xl.  288  ; A.  J.  Pepper,  Boston  Jour.,  Nov.  1887,  p.  516  ; Steffeck,  Amer.  Jour.  Med. 
Sci .,  Apr.  1888,  p.  427 ; Legrand,  Med.  Record,  xxxvi.  517).  In  1887,  Butte  showed 
that  corrosive  sublimate,  used  in  sufficient  quantities,  for  dressing  wounds  and  washing 
cavities  is  liable  to  occasion  watery  and  bloody  diarrhoea,  nausea  and  vomiting,  colic,  tenes- 
mus, etc.,  and  occasionally  salivation  and  stomatitis.  Sometimes  the  urine  is  albuminous. 
After  death,  which  takes  place  in  collapse,  the  chief  lesion  is  diphtherial  inflammation  of 
the  large  intestine.  These  effects  occur  whether  the  poison  be  introduced  by  the  mouth, 
the  rectum,  vagina,  peritoneum,  or  skin  ( Med . Record,  xxxi.  520).  A solution  of  1 : 6000 
injected  into  the  peritoneum  has  caused  fatal  poisoning  ( Practitioner , xxxix.  46).  An 
enema  composed  of  about  f^v  of  water  and  an  equal  quantity  of  a 5 per  cent,  solution 
of  the  bichloride  was,  by  mistake,  given  to  an  adult  female,  producing  diarrhoea,  vomiting, 
collapse,  and  death  in  five  days  (Haber,  Zeitsch.  Min.  Med.,  xiv,  459).  Bepeated  small 
doses  taken  internally  may  involve  danger.  A.  H.  Smith  (Med.  Record,  xxvi.  312) 
relates  that  in  eleven  cases  the  bichloride  was  given,  at  intervals  of  one  or  two  hours,  in 
doses  varying  from  ^ to  yL  grain.  In  five  cases  no  disturbance  ensued,  but  in  six  grip- 
ing occurred,  with  bloody  diarrhoea  or  ptyalism,  and  in  three  cases  there  was  diuresis. 

Corrosive  sublimate  has  never  lost  the  pre-eminence  which  it  shared  with  calomel  of 
being  one  of  the  best  internal  remedies  for  syphilis.  In  general,  it  is  found  not  to  salivate 
unless  given  in  doses  of  at  least  Grin.  0.03  (A  grain)  twice  a day,  but  even  in  smaller 
doses  its  tendency  to  irritate  should  be  guarded  by  its  being  associated  with  some  syrup, 
bitter  extract,  or  opium,  and  taken  directly  after  meals.  To  prevent  its  decomposition  in 
solution,  it  should  be  given  along  with  muriate  of  ammonia,  in  the  proportion  of  Gm.  0.06 
to  Gm.  0.33  (1  grain  of  the  bichloride  to  5 grains  of  the  latter  salt).  To  this  solution 
alcohol  should  be  added  in  the  proportion  of  1 part  to  10.  It  is  preferable  to  prescribe 
as  many  daily  doses  of  the  medicine  as  the  patient  takes  meals,  in  order  to  lessen  the 
chances  of  gastro-intestinal  irritation.  In  appropriate  quantities  this  preparation  is 
undoubtedly  the  best  in  infantile  syphilis.  In  it  about  Gm.  0.003  grain)  should  be 
given  in  solution  three  times  a day,  and  generally  prescribed  in  a syrup  or  mixed  with  one 
when  administered.  If  diarrhoea  occurs,  it  should  be  corrected  by  diminishing  the  fre- 
quency or  the  size  of  the  dose  and  by  adding  to  it  a minute  proportion  of  laudanum. 
Baths  of  the  bichloride  have  been  used  to  cure  syphilis,  and  with  very  great  success ; 
they  are  not  apt  to  salivate,  but  the  irritation  of  the  skin  they  occasion  renders  them 
objectionable.  The  salt  has  also  been  employed  hypodermically.  Some  believe  that  the 
subcutaneous  injection  of  mercury  will  supersede  all  other  methods  of  treating  syphilis, 
because  it  enables  the  physician  to  graduate  the  dose  of  the  medicine — because,  also,  it 
dispenses  with  baths  and  frequent  changes  of  linen,  does  not  hinder  the  patient  from  pur- 
suing his  usual  calling,  and  shortens  the  duration  of  the  treatment.  On  the  other  hand, 
it  is  not  demonstrated  that  this  method  of  cure  is  as  certain  as  the  internal  use  of  mer- 
cury, unless  the  duration  of  the  treatment  is  prolonged  beyond  the  disappearance  of  the 
symptoms  for  which  it  was  administered.  And  it  certainly  has  been  fruitful  in  painful 
and  often  extensive  abscesses  even  when  it  was  cautiously  used.  Kobner  lays  great 
stress  on  the  efficacy  of  hypodermic  mercurial  injections  in  curing  local  manifestations  of 
syphilis,  such  as  condylomata  and  papular  syphilides , engorged  glands,  etc.  He  holds  that 


HYVRARGYRI  CHLORIDUM  CORROSIVUM. 


823 


in  this  manner  the  antidote  is  brought  into  contact  with  the  poison  more  immediately  than 
when  it  is  otherwise  administered  {Jour,  of  Cutan.  and  Venereal  Vis.,  May,  1885). 
While  hypodermic  injections  were  employed  superficially  they  were  found  to  occasion 
much  local  irritation  and  even  abscess.  But  it  is  now  agreed  that  they  should  be  deep 
and  intramuscular,  and  that  the  most  eligible  region  for  making  them  is  the  buttocks. 
The  needle  of  the  syringe  is  liable  to  become  corroded,  and  should  therefore  from  time  to 
time  be  renewed.  It  is  recommended  that  the  injections  should  be  repeated  about  once  a 
week,  and  should  each  contain  about  Gm.  0.02  (one-third  of  a grain)  of  the  salt  on  an 
average,  and  that  they  should  be  continued  for  about  a year  (Bloxam  ; Schadeck).  Or  a 
solution  of  1 : 100  may  be  used,  of  which  from  10  to  20  minims  may  be  injected  daily  for 
about  a month,  or  until  the  mouth  becomes  sore.  The  quantity  employed  during  the 
treatment  is  usually  from  Gm.  0.20-0.40  (3  to  6 grains)  (Wolff,  Therap.  Gaz.,  xiii.  729  ; 
Kaposi,  Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  May,  1890,  p.  499).  The  salt  preferred  by  Letnik 
was  “chloride  of  mercury  with  sodium  chloride,”  but  he  did  not  make  any  experiments 
with  mercurial  albuminate  {Edinb.  Med.  Jour.,  xxviii.  370).  The  peptonated  bichloride 
was  claimed  by  Terillon  in  1880,  and  was  still  maintained  by  Martineau  in  1882,  to 
possess  all  the  advantages  hitherto  attributed  to  it,  including  a rapid  improvement  in  the 
general  nutrition  and  the  constitution  of  the  blood ; but  it  has  been  alleged,  on  the  other 
hand,  that  its  use  hypodermically  is  very  painful  and  irritating,  and  that  its  cures  are  not 
more  radical  than  those  obtained  by  inunction  or  by  the  internal  administration  of  mercury 
(j Bull,  de  Therap.,  xcix.  150;  Med.  Record,  xx.  684;  Bull,  et  Memoires  de  la  Soc.  de 
Therap.,  Oct.  1882,  p.  188).  In  1881  the  albuminate  was  introduced,  and  its  efficacy 
was  stated  to  have  been  equal,  if  not  superior,  to  that  of  the  peptonate,  while  it  was  free 
from  the  objections  urged  against  that  preparation  (Gourgues,  Bull.  de  Therap.,  cii.  49). 
Another  preparation  of  the  same  order  is  the  gluten-peptonate,  which  is  claimed  to  be 
unirritating  and  efficient  ( Therap.  Monatsch .,  iv.  437).  On  the  whole,  the  soluble  mercu- 
rials are  preferable  for  hypodermic  use,  and  among  these  the  bichloride  is  the  best.  (Com- 
pare Lesser,  Centralbl.  f.  Ther.,\ iii.  47;  Horovitz,  ibid. , p.  193;  editorial,  Univ.  Med. 
Mag.,  ii.  382.) 

It  is  claimed  that  a solution  of  Gm.  0.016  (1  gr.)  of  the  bichloride  in  Gm.  32  (an 
ounce)  of  water  is  of  great  efficacy,  both  topically  and  internally,  in  the  treatment  of 
diphtheria.  The  dose  used  internally  varied  from  1 of  a grain  to  1 grain  in  twenty -four 
hours,  given  in  divided  doses  at  short  intervals.  In  this  disease  and  in  pseudo-mem- 
branous laryngitis  Jacobi  advocates  the  same  treatment  {Med.  Record,  xxv.  573),  and 
more  emphatically  in  1888  {Med.  News,  Hi.  662).  It  was  used  by  Stumpf  {Centralb.  f. 
Med.,  1887,  v.  598),  who  sprayed  in  the  fances  about  1 fluiddrachm  of  a sublimate 
solution  I— 1 per  mill,  strong,  and  cured  twenty-nine  out  of  thirty-one  cases.  Arrest  of 
the  deposit  and  subsidence  of  the  fever  promptly  followed.  The  injection  was  at  first 
made  five  times  an  hour,  and  its  frequency  was  then  gradually  reduced.  In  every  case 
salivation  took  place.  These  results  have  been  confirmed  by  others,  and  notably  by 
Rennert  {Med.  News,  lv.  348),  who  limited  the  application  of  1 part  sublimate,  5 parts 
tartaric  acid,  and  1000  parts  water  to  the  existing  and  accessible  false  membranes.  The 
solution  was  applied  every  six  to  twelve  hours  on  fresh  wads  of  cotton,  and  so  as  to 
remove,  if  possible,  the  exudation  and  to  saturate  it  if  it  could  not  be  removed.  No 
poisonous  effects  occurred,  probably  on  account  of  the  weakness  of  the  solution.  Lunin 
of  St.  Petersburg  made  comparative  trials  of  various  remedies  in  the  treatment  of  the 
fibrinous  and  septic  phlegmonous  forms  of  diphtheria,  and  found  as  a general  result  that 
the  percentage  of  deaths  was  less  under  the  use  of  corrosive  sublimate  than  under  that 
of  other  agents  employed,  except  turpentine  {Jour.  Am.  Med.  Assoc.,  x.  127).  Led  by 
the  bacillar  doctrine  of  phthisis  and  the  antizymotic  properties  of  corrosive  sublimate, 
some  have  made  claims  for  the  efficacy  of  this  agent  as  an  internal  medicine  that  have  not 
been  substantiated.  But  others  who  used  it  in  atomized  solutions  have  found  that,  like 
many  other  local  stimulants  applied  in  this  manner,  it  only  diminished  the  bronchial 
secretion,  and  therefore  the  sputa  and  the  cough ; and  others,  again,  that  it  was  not 
tolerated  (Cs&tary,  Centralbl.  f.  Ther .,  viii.  542).  In  all  the  forms  of  chronic  bronchitis, 
and  especially  in  foetid  bronchitis,  whether  or  not  associated  with  pulmonary  tubercle, 
this  method  should  not  be  overlooked.  Solutions  for  this  purpose  should  contain  about 
Gm.  0.01  in  Gm.  100  (gr.  £ in  f^iij)  of  distilled  water,  of  which  4 or  5 fluidrachms  may 
be  inhaled  twice  a day.  It  has  been  proposed  to  treat  acute  'pneumonia  by  perenchy- 
matous  injections  of  this  salt  ( Practitioner , xxxv.  377).  Fortunately,  the  proposition 
did  not  commend  itself  to  the  judgment  of  physicians. 

In  various  diseases  of  the  skin  solutions  of  corrosive  sublimate  are  useful  topical 


824 


HYDRARGYRI  CHLORIDVM  CJORROSIVUM. 


applications,  but  the  strength  of  the  preparation  should  be  carefully  regulated,  and  none 
should  be  employed  if  the  skin  is  broken.  Psoriasis,  when  inveterate,  has  been  success- 
fully treated  by  baths  containing  corrosive  sublimate,  the  patients  taking  from  30  to  40 
baths,  kept  at  a lukewarm  temperature,  and  remaining  immersed  from  a half  to  three- 
quarters  of  an  hour  (Voss  and  Sperk,  Med.  News  and  A&s.,  June,  1881,  p.  356).  A 
solution  of  Gm.  1 (15  grains)  of  the  salt  in  a pint  of  water,  or,  still  better,  in  2 fluid- 
ounces  of  dilute  alcohol  and  14  fluidounces  of  water,  forms  a very  efficacious  lotion  in 
many  cases  of  acne , especially  in  the  form  which  affects  the  noses  of  certain  women  at 
their  menstrual  periods  ; in  chloasma ; in  lentigo  and  the  discolorations  of  the  skin 
which  go  under  the  general  name  of  freckles  ; in  prurigo  pudendi  as  a palliative,  and  in 
pityriasis,  it  usually  serves  as  a cure.  In  various  forms  of  ophthalmia  Chabret  states  that 
irrigation  of  the  eye  with  a solution  of  1 part  of  the  bichloride  to  2000  of  water  promptly 
secures  a reduction  or  an  arrest  of  the  inflammation  ( Practitioner , xxxv.  55).  Similar 
statements  have  been  made  by  Below  ( Med . News,  xlviii.  38),  and  Arnauts  recommends 
that  in  granular  conjunctivitis  a collyrium  of  the  strength  of  1 : 500  or  1 : 400  should 
be  instilled  into  the  eye  three  times  a day,  while  twice  a week  the  conjunctiva  should  be 
brushed  over  with  a solution  of  1 : 120  or  1 : 100.  Essentially  the  same  method  was 
advocated  by  Staderini  ( Univ . Med.  Mag.,  i.  702).  Progressive  suppuration  of  the  cornea 
has  been  treated  successfully  by  Hotz  with  solutions  of  the  bichloride,  1 : 5000  ( Journ . 
Amer.  Med.  Assoc.,  ix.  773).  The  efficiency  of  corrosive  sublimate  in  the  treatment  of 
lupus  has  been  proven  by  Doutrelepont,  Unna,  Payne,  White,  and  others,  either  as  an 
exclusive  or  as  an  associated  agent.  It  is  claimed  to  destroy  the  morbid  growth  without 
injuring  the  surrounding  tissues.  It  has  been  used  in  watery  solution,  in  an  ointment, 
with  collodion,  etc.,  and  of  the  strength  of  from  half  a grain  up  to  four  grains  to  the 
ounce.  It  is  usually  applied  twice  a day,  or  less  frequently  or  in  a mitigated  form  if 
signs  arise  of  mercurial  poisoning.  Warts  may  be  destroyed  by  a solution  of  15  grains 
of  corrosive  sublimate  in  an  ounce  of  collodion.  A solution  containing  from  10  to  20 
grains  of  the  salt  to  the  ounce  of  water  is  claimed  to  be  a specific  remedy  for  the  inflam- 
mation caused  by  Rhus  radicans,  or  poison  ivy.  A solution  of  2 grains  in  an  ounce  of 
water  is  one  of  the  best  agents  for  destroying  pediculi  pubis,  and  is  most  efficiently  applied 
with  a fine-tooth  comb.  Malignant  pustule  is  said  to  be  treated  more  efficiently  than  by 
any  other  method  with  corrosive  sublimate  applied  to  the  raw  surface  of  a crucial  incision 
made  through  the  hardened  tissues.  Ozsena,  especially  of  syphilitic  origin,  is  benefited 
by  the  injection  into  the  nostrils  of  weak  solutions  of  the  bichloride  containing  Gm. 
0.06-0.12  (1  or  2 grains)  to  Gm.  32  (1  ounce)  of  water,  or  by  a weaker  solution  applied 
with  the  nasal  douche.  The  nasal  injection  is  objectionable,  owing  to  the  danger  of  the 
medicine  being  swallowed.  More  than  half  a century  ago  injections  of  corrosive  subli- 
mate were  used  in  the  treatment  of  leucorrhoea  and  gonorrhoea,  both  simple  and  syphilitic. 
Bichter  ( Ausfurliche  Arzneimittellehre , 1830,  v.  636)  especially  advised  that  they  should 
not  be  stronger  than  about  one  grain  in  six  ounces,  and  refers  to  their  employment  by 
Plisson,  Swediaur,  and  others  in  these  affections  and  in  balanitis.  Others  afterward 
employed  the  same  treatment  occasionally,  but  in  1884  it  was  revived  for  its  supposed 
specific  action  on  the  gonococcus  or  germ  of  gonorrhoea.  Injections  were  used  contain- 
ing the  bichloride  in  the  proportion  of  1 : 20,000.  Paul  employed  Van  Swieten’s  solution, 
1 part,  and  water  190  parts.  From  comparative  trials  made  by  Firth  ( Therap . Gaz .,  x. 
331)  it  appears  that  injections  of  corrosive  sublimate  (gr.  -fa  to  fgj)  cured  gonorrhoea 
sooner  than  any  others  except  solutions  of  permanganate  of  potassium,  and  that  such 
injections  were  more  efficient  when  warmed  than  when  cold.  But  under  either  agent  the 
average  duration  of  the  disease  was  from  seventeen  to  twenty  days.  (Compare  Band,  New 
York  Med.  Jour.,  Dec.  2,  1887).  Theorists  have  ventured  to  treat  typhoid  fever  with 
repeated  small  doses  of  the  bichloride,  and  even  to  proclaim  its  success,  but  experience 
has  altogether  condemned  the  method  and  refuted  its  supporters.  (Compare  Glaser,  Prac- 
titioner, xxxviii.  455.)  On  similar  grounds  solution  of  perchloride  of  mercury  (Br.  P.) 
has  been  used  in  dysentery  ( Lancet , Nov.  1889,  p.  901)  and  cholera  ( Therap . Gaz.,  xiii. 
753),  and  calomel  as  well  as  corrosive  sublimate  internally  for  the  same  disease  (Bull,  de 
Therap.,  cxviii.  49).  A solution  of  the  salt  (1 : 1000)  has  been  used  in  the  operation  for 
the  radical  cure  of  hydrocele  (Bull,  de  Iherap.,  cxii.  179).  Syphilitic  condylomata  have 
been  successfnlly  treated  by  washing  them  with  a solution  of  common  salt,  and  then 
sprinkling  calomel  powder  over  them.  This  method  is  said  to  be  less  painful  than  the 
direct  application  of  corrosive  sublimate  (Nussbaum),  especially  in  the  form  of  Plenck’s 
solution.  This  preparation  has  occasioned  grave  effects  (Therap.  MoJiatsli.,  iv.  371). 

In  the  subacute  and  chronic  forms  of  muscular  and  also  of  articular  rheumatism  a very 


HYDRARGYRI  CI1L0RIDUM  MITE. 


825 


gentle  but  sustained  mercurial  action  will  sometimes  put  an  end  to  the  lingering  stiffness 
of  the  joints.  For  this  purpose  minute  doses  of  the  bichloride  in  compound  syrup  of 
sarsaparilla  will  be  found  appropriate.  In  chronic  rheumatic  arthritis  it  is  said  that 
baths  of  the  bichloride  and  compresses  wet  with  solution  of  the  salt  have  sometimes 
produced  cures  of  this  intractable  disease.  It  is  recommended  that  a full  bath  should 
contain  from  Gm.  12-32  (3  to  8 drachms)  of  the  salt.  The  many  possible  dangers  from 
so  large  a quantity  of  a poisonous  liquid  should  condemn  its  use  fora  disease  in  which  its 
utility  is  so  questionable. 

The  most  striking  among  the  recent  applications  of  corrosive  sublimate  is  its  use  as 
a dressing  for  wounds.  No  doubt  can  be  entertained  that  it  greatly  diminished  the 
mortality  from  surgical  as  well  as  accidental  wounds,  especially  in  hospital  practice 
and  when  the  sublimate  solution  was  applied,  to  the  injured  part  itself,  and  to  the 
surgeon’s  hands,  his  instruments,  and  his  dressings,  so  that  not  only  was  the  specific  action 
of  the  solution  utilized,  but  the  utmost  and  most  scrupulous  cleanliness  was  enjoined. 
The  latter  element  is  of  capital  importance  in  estimating  the  value  of  the  method.  Its 
leading  advantages  were  that  the  dressings  need  not  be  frequently  changed ; there  were 
no  discharges,  offensive  or  otherwise ; the  pain  and  fever  were  reduced  to  a minimum  ; 
and  a rapid  and  perfect  union  of  the  several  parts  was  secured.  The  solution  never  was 
stronger  than  1 part  of  the  salt  in  1000  of  the  water,  and  one  of  half  this  strength  was 
found  best  during  operations  ; while  a solution  of  1 : 10,000  was  held  to  be  sufficient  for 
ordinary  dressings  that  were  to  remain  in  place.  Naturally  also  the  strength  of  the  solu- 
tion had  to  be  less  when  it  was  frequently  removed  than  when  a single  and  permanent 
application  was  made.  The  repeated  use  of  the  stronger  liquid  sometimes  (as  has 
already  been  stated)  occasioned  poisonous  and  even  fatal  effects,  including  vomiting, 
ptyalism,  tenesmus,  diarrhoea,  and  collapse,  as  well  as  local  signs  of  irritation,  such  as 
erythema,  eczema,  etc. 

It  was  claimed  that  in  the  ordinary  manoeuvres  required  in  obstetrics,  and  also  in  ob- 
stetrical operations,  the  same  method  greatly  reduced  the  mortality  of  lying-in  hospitals. 
Especially  was  it  found  that  irrigations  of  the  vagina  and  uterus  after  delivery  with  a 
solution  varying  in  strength  from  1 : 12,000  to  1 : 1500  were  very  efficient.  But  they 
were  not  free  from  danger.  Richardson  relates  ( Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  April, 
1885,  p.  413)  five  cases  in  which  the  uterine  injection  of  solutions  of  1 : 2000  and 
1 : 2500  occasioned  sore  mouth.  In  a previous  paragraph  of  this  present  article  the 
dangers  of  using  this  solution  have  been  pointed  out.  They  have  also  been  dwelt  upon 
by  Braun  ( Centralbl . f.  Therap.,  v.  589),  and  in  this  country  by  Davis  {Med.  News , 1. 
309),  though  Winternitz  maintains  {ibid.,  liv.  545)  that  solutions  of  1 : 2000  are  not 
dangerous  if  immediately  after  their  injection  they  are  allowed  to  escape  from  the 
vagina.  A mercurial  sublimate  prepared  with  an  ounce  of  fatty  acids  has  been  found 
of  especial  service  in  the  treatment  of  parasitic  skin  affections,  anthrax , etc.,  and  a 
mixture  of  3 parts  of  bichloride  of  mercury  and  20  parts  of  collodion  has  been  applied 
to  flat  vascular  tumors  of  the  skin. 

The  combination  of  corrosive  sublimate  with  chloride  of  ammonium,  which  was  for- 
merly known  as  sal  alembroth,  has  been  used  by  Lister  in  a 1 per  cent,  solution  to  pre- 
pare surgical  antiseptic  dressings,  but  was  found  practically  objectionable. 

Administration. — The  dose  of  corrosive  sublimate  internally  is  from  Gm.  0.004- 
0.008  to  J grain).  It  should  not  be  given  when  the  stomach  is  empty  unless  in  a 
very  weak  solution.  It  is  recommended  that  for  hypodermic  use  a 90  per  cent,  solution 
should  be  prepared,  with  the  addition  of  0 per  cent,  of  common  salt,  and  the  equivalent 
of  Gm.  0.06  (gr.  J)  employed  as  a single  dose  {Med.  News , lv.  521).  Sigmund  used 
Gm.  0.25  and  Gm.  2 in  Gm.  32  (4  grs.  of  sublimate  and  30  grs.  of  salt)  in  an  ounce  of 
water,  of  which  one  dose  was  Gm.  1.30-2.00  (20-30  minims).  It  is  claimed,  though  not 
admitted,  that  ammoniated peptonate  of  mercury  deeply  injected  into  a muscular  part  is 
superior  to  other  modes  of  administration. 

HYDRARGYRI  CHLORIDUM  MITE,  TJ.  S. — Mild  Mercurous 

Chloride. 

Hydrargyri  subchloridum,  Br. ; Hydrargyrum  chloratum,  P.  G.  ; Hydrargyri  chloridum, 
Hydrargyrum  chloratum  {muriaticum)  dulce,  Mercurius  dulcis,  Calomelas,  Chloruretum 
{ Chloretum ) hydrargyrosum. — Calomel,  E.  ; Fr.  ; G.  ; Mercurous  chloride,  Subchloride  { Pro- 
tochloride) of  mercury,  E. ; Protochlorure  {So us- muriate)  de  mercure,  Mercure  doux,  Fr.  ; 
Quecksilberchloriir , G. 

Formula  HgCl  or  Hg2Cl2.  Molecular  weight  235.17  or  470.34. 


826 


IIYDRARGYRI  CHLORIDVM  MITE. 


Preparation.— Take  of  Mercuric  Sulphate  10  ounces  ; Mercury  7 ounces ; Sodium 
Chloride,  dried.  5 ounces;  Boiling  Distilled  Water  a sufficiency.  Moisten  the  mercuric 
sulphate  with  some  of  the  water,  and  rub  it  and  the  mercury  together  until  globules  are 
no  longer  visible  ; add  the  sodium  chloride  and  thoroughly  mix  the  whole  by  continued 
trituration.  Sublime  by  a suitable  apparatus  into  a chamber  of  such  size  that  the 
calomel,  instead  of  adhering  to  its  sides  as  a crystalline  crust,  shall  fall  as  a fine  powder 
on  its  floor.  Wash  this  powder  with  boiling  distilled  water  until  the  washings  cease  to 
be  darkened  by  a drop  of  ammonium  sulphide.  Finally,  dry  at  a heat  not  exceeding 
212°  F.,  and  preserve  in  ajar  or  bottle  impervious  to  light. — Br. 

Mercuric  sulphate  is  first  mixed  with  the  requisite  quantity  of  mercury  to  form  mer- 
curous sulphate,  Hg2S04,  and  afterward  with  sodium  chloride.  On  heating  the  mix- 
ture reaction  takes  place  between  the  two  salts,  resulting  in  the  production  of  mercurous 
chloride,  which  sublimes,  and  sodium  sulphate,  which  remains  behind ; Hg2S04  + 2NaCl 
yields  IIg2Cl2  4-  Na2S04.  If  these  vapors  are  cooled  and  condensed  in  a small  space, 
white  or  yellowish-white  crystalline  masses  are  obtained,  which  should  be  finely  pow- 
dered. To  avoid  this  operation,  the  condensation  is  directed  to  be  effected  in  a large 
chamber,  whereby  a fine  crystalline  powder  is  obtained ; it  is  condensed  in  a similar  form, 
but  still  finer  and  as  a still  softer  powder,  by  injecting  steam  into  the  condensing-chamber 
while  the  sublimation  is  in  progress.  Calomel  prepared  in  this  way  is  designated  in  the 
German  Pharmacopoeia  as  Hydrargyrum  chloratum  vapore  paratum,  and  is  known  in 
France  as  Calomel  a la  vapeur.  Water  being  at  the  same  time  condensed,  it  will  hold 
any  corrosive  sublimate  in  solution  which  may  have  sublimed  with  the  vapors  of  calomel. 
It  is  for  the  purpose  of  removing  the  same  impurity  that  the  ordinarily-condensed  cal- 
omel requires  to  be  washed  with  water  as  long  as  mercuric  chloride  is  dissolved,  which  is 
indicated  by  the  filtrate  producing  a white  turbidity  with  ammonia  or  a black  one  with 
ammonium  sulphide.  A current  of  cold  air  injected  into  the  condensing-chamber  will 
precipitate  the  calomel  vapors  as  a soft  powder  in  a manner  similar  to  that  produced 
by  steam. 

Very  finely-divided  calomel,  Hydrargyri  chloridum  mite  prsecipitat lone  paratum,  known 
in  France  as  Precipite  blanc  (which  should  not  he  confounded  with  ammoniated  mercury), 
is  obtained  by  gradually  adding  a not  too  concentrated  solution  of  mercurous  nitrate  to  a 
solution  containing  an  excess  of  sodium  chloride,  digesting  the  mixture  for  a short  time, 
and  washing  the  precipitate  thoroughly  with  water.  Wohler  (1854)  proposed  the  reduc- 
tion of  corrosive  sublimate  in  solution  by  sulphurous  acid  and  by  warming  the  mixture. 
Good  results  and  nearly  the  theoretical  quantity  of  calomel  are  obtained,  according  to 
Sartorius  (1855),  if  the  corrosive  sublimate  has  been  dissolved  in  80  parts,  or,  according 
to  Stein  (1857),  in  45  parts,  of  water.  Concentrated  solutions  yield  only  one-half  the 
mercury  as  calomel. 

Besides  calomel  manufactured  in  the  United  States,  2400  pounds  were  imported  in 
1875,  and  8177  pounds  in  1881. 

Properties. — Calomel  is  a heavy,  fine,  smooth,  and  impalpable  white  powder,  which 
under  the  microscope  is  observed  to  consist  of  minute  needle-shaped  crystals,  but  when 
prepared  by  levigating  the  crystallized  mass  it  forms  irregular  fragments  of  crystals. 
These  two  varieties  are  usually  met  with  in  commerce.  Calomel  obtained  by  precipitation 
is  in  very  minute  particles,  either  crystalline  or  amorphous,  but  on  account  of  its  more 
energetic  action  is  rarely  used.  The  salt  is  without  action  on  test-paper,  is  entirely 
inodorous  and  tasteless,  and  is  not  altered  in  the  dark  on  exposure  to  the  air ; hut  if  kept 
in  the  light  it  gradually  acquires  a gray  or  blackish  color,  indicating  decomposition.  Its 
density  is  about  7.0,  hut  varies  somewhat  as  prepared  by  different  processes.  When 
heated  it  sublimes  completely  without  previous  fusion.  It  is  insoluble  in  water  and  other 
simple  solvents,  but  boiled  with  water  it  is  slowly  decomposed  into  metallic  mercury  and 
mercuric  chloride.  Solutions  of  the  fixed  alkalies  and  alkaline  earths  decompose  it,  with 
the  formation  of  soluble  chlorides  and  black  mercurous  oxide  Hg20  (see  Lotio  Hydrar- 
gyri Nigra)  ; ammonia-water  also  colors  it  black,  but  the  resulting  compound  has  the 
composition  NH2Hg2Cl.  When  mixed  with  a dry  caustic  alkali,  alkaline  earth,  or  an 
alkali  carbonate,  and  heated,  decomposition  takes  place,  metallic  mercury  being  produced. 
Moist  calomel  is  reduced  to  the  metallic  state  by  many  metals  either  in  the  cold  or  on 
being  warmed,  soluble  chlorides  and  metallic  mercury  being  formed.  Boiling  nitric  or 
sulphuric  acid  dissolves  calomel,  with  disengagement  of  nitric  oxide  or  sulphurous  acid 
vapors  and  the  production  of  mercuric  chloride  and  nitrate  or  sulphate.  Boiling  concen- 
trated hydrochloric  acid  dissolves  mercuric  chloride  and  leaves  mercury ; in  the  diluted 
state,  and  heated  in  contact  with  the  air,  mercuric  chloride  is  slowly  dissolved  without 


HYDRARGYRl  CHLORIDVM  MITE. 


827 


separation  of  mercury.  Calomel  left  in  contact  with  solution  of  ammonium  chloride  is 
j gradually  converted  into  mercuric  chloride,  which  dissolves ; the  decomposition  occurs 
more  rapidly  with  a concentrated  solution  and  at  a somewhat  elevated  temperature. 
Potassium  and  sodium  chlorides  have  a similar  effect,  but  react  more  slowly.  According 
1 to  Jolly’s  observations  (1878),  corrosive  sublimate  is  also  formed  from  calomel  in  the 
presence  of  hydrochloric  acid,  citric  acid,  alkalies,  their  carbonates,  and  alkaline  earths, 
but  not  with  calcium  carbonate  or  with  sugar  which  is  absolutely  free  from  lime.  Chlorine- 
i water  converts  calomel  into  corrosive  sublimate.  With  potassium  iodide  a green  powder 
is  produced  containing  mercurous  iodide.  When  triturated  with  impure  sugar  some  cor- 
rosive sublimate  is  formed. 

Tests. — Calomel  should  volatilize  when  heated,  without  leaving  any  residue  (absence 
of  fixed  impurities).  Heated  with  potassa  solution,  it  should  turn  black,  without  evolv- 
ing the  odor  of  ammonia  (absence  of  ammonium  compounds).  Agitated  with  warm  dis- 
tilled water  or  alcohol,  the  filtrate  should  not  be  colored  by  hydrogen  sulphide  or  yield  a 
white  precipitate  with  silver  nitrate  (absence  of  mercuric  chloride),  nor  should  it  on 
evaporation  leave  any  residue  (absence  of  fixed  soluble  impurities).  Agitated  with 
diluted  acetic  acid,  the  filtrate  should  not  be  affected  by  hydrogen  sulphide  or  silver 
nitrate  (absence  of  ammoniated  mercury). 

Action  and  Uses. — The  action  of  calomel  does  not  materially  differ  from  that  of 
uncombined  mercury  (see  Hydrargyrum)  ; it  is,  however,  rather  more  irritating,  and 
in  excessive  doses  may  cause  active  vomiting  and  purging.  But  some  alleged  instances 
of  its  irritating  action  may  be  attributed  to  the  calomel  having  been  partially  converted 
into  corrosive  sublimate;  but  as  Trasbot  (Bull.  etc.  Soc.  Therap.,  1890,  p.  121)  and 
others  have  shown,  such  a change  must  be  very  slight  if  it  occurs  at  all.  Among  the 
anomalous  effects  of  calomel  is  a cutaneous  erythema. 

The  experiments  of  Wassilieff  led  him  to  conclude  that  calomel  in  the  stomach  does 
not  hinder  the  digestive  process,  while  it  tends  to  prevent  putrefactive  changes  in  the 
food.  The  cholagogue  action  ascribed  to  mercury,  and  especially  to  calomel,  was  an 
invention  of  the  British  physicians  in  India,  who  long  accepted  the  doctrine  that  large 
doses  of  calomel  diminish  the  vascularity  of  the  gastro-duodenal  mucous  membrane,  and 
dissolve  the  inspissated  mucus  investing  it  and  obstructing  the  gall-ducts,  and  that  small 
doses  of  the  medicine  are  absorbed  and  through  the  blood  promote  the  secretion  of  bile. 
But  a careful  repetition  of  their  experiments  proved  that  large  doses  of  calomel , as  well  as 
small  doses , lessen  the  biliary  secretion , and  that  among  purgative  medicines  mercury  in 
every  form  is  the  one  that  tends  least  to  augment  the  discharge  of  bile.  The  experiments  of 
Prevost  and  Binet  in  1888  confirmed  the  conclusion  here  stated  ( Boston  Med.  and  Surg. 
Jour.,  Nov.  1888,  p.  439).  Like  other  mercurials,  calomel  is  diuretic  (Jendrassik,  Uni- 
I versify  Med.  Mag.,  iii.  330). 

When  the  cure  of  syphilis  was  believed  to  depend  upon  profuse  mercurial  salivation, 
calomel  was  generally  employed  to  produce  that  effect.  But  at  the  present  day  this 
action  of  calomel,  along  with  its  tendency  to  purge,  has  caused  it  to  be  less  frequently 
used  than  formerly.  If  prescribed  at  all,  it  should  be  in  very  small  and  repeated  doses, 
and  the  frequency  of  its  administration  determined  by  its  effects  upon  the  mouth,  the 
bowels,  and  the  course  of  the  disease.  These  remarks  apply  to  indurated  chancres  as 
well  as  to  secondary  symptoms.  Of  late  years  (for  the  history  of  the  method,  see 
Guelpa,  Bull,  de  Therap.,  cxii.  289;  Zeissl,  Cent r alb.  f.  Ther.,  v.  288)  calomel  has  been 
administered  for  the  cure  of  constitutional  syphilis  by  deep  muscular  injections.  One 
formula  was  as  follows : calomel,  common  salt,  of  each  5 parts,  distilled  water  50  parts, 
gum  arabic  mucilage  2.5  parts  ; each  injection  contained  about  one  grain  of  calomel. 
Another  was  calomel  1 part,  olive  oil  10  parts;  and  a third  calomel  and  lanolin,  of  each 
three  parts,  olive  oil  4 parts ; glycerin  has  been  used  as  a vehicle.  Albuminate  of  mer- 
cury has  been  recommended  for  this  purpose.  The  injections  have  usually  been  made 
in  the  gluteal  region  behind  the  great  trochanter,  on  the  two  buttocks  alternately,  and 
at  intervals  of  from  one  to  three  weeks  ( Central!,  f.  Ther.,  iv.  37).  The  advantages 
claimed  for  this  method  are  that  the  patient’s  disease  is  less  apt  to  be  known  than  it  is 
under  other  treatment ; that  less  mercury  is  required  for  a cure ; that  the  cure  is  more 
speedy ; that  relapses  after  it  are  not  more  frequent ; that  salivation  and  ulceration  fol- 
lowing it  are  rare  and  slight ; that  it  is  adapted  to  primary  as  well  as  constitutional  syph- 
ilis; that  it  permits  an  accurate  estimate  of  the  amount  of  mercury  used  ; and  that 
it  does  not  derange  the  digestive  organs.  On  the  other  hand,  it  is  accused  of  being 
extremely  painful  and  liable  to  occasion  abscess  or  purulent  infiltration,  pyaemia,  and 
stomatitis  (Schopf ; Bender ; Besnier),  and  that  relapses  are  more  frequent  and  graver 


828 


HYDRARGYRI  CHLORIDUM  MITE. 


than  after  other  mercurial  modes  of  treatment.  (Compare  Leloir  and  Tavernier,  Therap. 
Gaz.  xiv.  617.)  Two  cases  of  death  caused  by  the  hypodermic  use  of  calomel  are  on 
record  ( Archiv . gen.,  Juin,  1889,  p.  732) ; and  the  like  issue  occurred  after  a similar  use 
of  oleum  cinereum  ( Therap . Monatshefte .,  iii,  436).  Other  and  similar  results  have  been 
noted  by  Kaposi  ( Amer . Jour.  Med.  Sci.,  March,  1870,  p.  305).  The  latter  preparation, 
or  “ gray  oil,”  is  composed  of  mercury  and  lanolin,  each  3 parts,  and  olive  oil  4 parts. 
Calomel  1 part  and  olive  oil  10  parts  form  a similar  preparation  which  is  claimed  to  be 
comparatively  unirritating  in  quantities  containing  one  grain  of  the  chloride. 

Much  has  been  written  both  for  and  against  the  use  of  calomel  in  typhoid  fever , but  a 
careful  study  of  its  history  seems  to  show — 1,  that  it  is  most  useful  when  given  in  the 
forming  stage  of  the  disease  and  in  purgative  doses ; and  2,  that  it  is  peculiarly  mis- 
chievous in  all  cases  which  tend  to  assume  an  ataxic  or  an  adynamic  type.  In  other 
words,  it  is  to  be  placed,  in  relation  to  typhoid  fever,  in  the  same  category  as  other  pur- 
gatives, among  which  the  salines  have  been  proved  to  be  eminently  useful  in  the  first 
period  of  the  disease.  It  is  very  probable  that  calomel,  acting  as  a purgative,  assists  in 
removing  the  poisonous  material  from  the  bowel,  and  possibly  tends  to  destroy  it  if  it  be 
a ferment,  while,  owing  to  its  imperfect  solubility,  the  medicine  may  serve  as  a protective 
to  the  mucous  glands  of  the  small  intestine.  It  has  been  recommended  to  administer 
calomel  in  small  and  repeated  doses,  and  so  as  slightly  to  affect  the  gums,  about  the 
height  of  the  disease,  when  the  tongue  grows  dry,  the  abdomen  tympanitic,  and  the 
mind  dull ; but  if  we  know  anything  about  the  nature  of  these  symptoms,  it  is  that  they 
are  signs  of  increased  exhaustion  of  the  nervous  system  and  poisoning  of  the  blood,  and 
therefore  the  very  last  to  be  treated  by  a medicine  which  tends  directly  to  aggravate 
such  conditions.  The  period  at  which  these  phenomena  appear,  only  to  subside  again  in 
three  or  four  days  in  the  natural  course  of  the  disease  when  it  tends  to  recovery,  is  the 
one  in  which  the  medicine  is  supposed  to  be  indicated,  and  the  reason  assigned  for  its 
use  probably  results,  therefore,  from  an  error  of  observation.  Dr.  J.  C.  Wilson  has  used 
calomel  hypodermically  in  this  disease  ( Therap . Gaz.,  xii.  729),  1 or  2 grains  every  four 
or  five  days  suspended  in  glycerin  and  water. 

At  one  time  calomel  was  held  to  be  a specific  in  yellow  fever — according  to  some,  if 
prescribed  in  large  doses ; according  to  others,  if  given  in  small  doses  intended  to  pro- 
duce its  constitutional  effects.  Experience  has  condemned  both  methods  as  not  only 
useless,  but  injurious.  The  same  may  be  said,  but  not  so  absolutely,  in  regard  to  remit- 
tent fever ; the  necessity  of  “ unloading  the  portal  circulation,”  which  purgative  doses  of 
calomel  were  supposed  to  effect,  does  not  now  appear  so  imperative  as  it  did  to  the 
theorists  of  thirty  or  forty  years  ago ; but  the  gastro-duodenal  inflammation  and  the 
engorged  state  of  the  liver  are  undoubtedly  allayed  by  alvine  evacuants,  among  which 
calomel  is  one  of  the  best,  because  it  is  one  of  the  least  irritating,  particularly  if  followed 
by  copious  but  weak  saline  draughts  in  divided  portions.  The  constitutional  action  of 
calomel  in  this  disease  is  no  longer  sought  by  judicious  physicians. 

During  the  last  century,  and  indeed  until  within  a few  years,  calomel  was  used  by 
English  and  American  physicians  in  all  inflammatory  diseases  with  complete  faith  in  its 
efficacy.  Borrowed  originally  from  the  treatment  of  acute  hepatitis  in  hot  climates,  it 
was  applied  in  England  to  a totally  different  order  of  diseases  (plastic  inflammations),  and 
gradually  came  to  be  regarded  as  a specific  in  most  of  them.  Subsequently,  this  empir- 
ical practice  was  supposed  to  find  a rational  justification  when  it  appeared  that  mercury 
diminished  the  coagulability  of  the  blood  by  lessening  the  proportion  of  its  fibrin,  and 
still  later,  when  it  appeared  that  the  medicine  directly  diminished  the  proportion  of  red 
globules  in  the  blood.  The  former  effect  was  probably,  indeed,  only  a consequence  of  the 
latter.  But,  although  it  seemed  to  be  proved  that  mercury  thus  restricted  inflammatory 
action  and  its  consequences,  it  was  not  proved  that  their  restriction  by  this  means  was 
necessary  to  cure  the  disease,  and  it  was  even  rendered  probable  that  the  antiphlogistic 
use  of  calomel  involved  more  danger  than  advantages.  Extensive  observation  has  now 
demonstrated  that,  with  one  or  two  possible  exceptions,  inflammatory  affections  may  be 
cured  quite  as  rapidly,  and  much  more  safely  and  agreeably,  without  mercury,than  with 
it,  while  the  dangers  involved  in  the  antiphlogistic  use  of  the  medicine  are  so  serious  as 
to  condemn  it  whenever  a safer  remedy  can  be  substituted  for  it. 

Of  acute  inflammations,  for  whose  treatment  calomel  has  long  been  supposed  essential, 
may  be  mentioned  pericarditis , endocarditis , pleurisy , pneumonia,  meningitis,  and  hepatitis. 
It  is  now  apparently  determined  that  none  of  these  diseases,  as  a rule,  require  calomel 
for  their  cure,  and  that  most  of  them  are  aggravated  by  it.  In  regard  to  peritonitis , it 
may  be  added  that  as  the  disease  is  never  idiopathic,  at  least  in  adults,  and  never  primary 


HYDRARGYRI  CHLORIDUM  MITE. 


829 


unless  traumatic,  pathology  confirms  what  clinical  observation  demonstrates — that 
mercury  is  unsuited  to  its  cure.  Acute  hepatitis  is  not  now,  as  formerly,  indiscriminately 
treated  by  calomel  in  tropical  climates,  where  alone  the  disease  is  frequently  observed. 
The  use  of  mercurial  and  other  purgatives  appears  to  be  beneficial  in  the  early  stages  of 
the  disease,  but  not  through  any  specific  operation.  There  are  good  grounds  for  suspect- 
ing that  in  hot  climates  the  repeated  administration  of  calomel  in  divided  doses  leads  to 
the  formation  of  abscesses  of  the  liver.  Meningitis , like  peritonitis,  is  always  a secondary 
disease  when  not  traumatic,  depending  upon  a specific  poison  in  epidemic  cerebro-spinal 
meningitis,  upon  the  rheumatic  poison  in  another  class  of  cases,  upon  tubercle  in  a third, 
etc.  In  no  form  of  meningitis  is  calomel  of  any  avail,  unless  it  may  be  so  in  certain 
exceptional  cases  of  the  tubercular  variety ; and,  although  it  must  be  confessed  that 
diagnostic  difficulties  obscure  the  subject,  still,  in  the  present  state  of  our  knowledge, 
mercury  stands  next  to  iodine  in  the  promise  of  doing  good.  In  regard  to  pleurisy, 
pneumonia,  pericarditis,  and  endocarditis  the  case  is  somewhat  different.  In  their  acute 
forms  mercury  is  probably  unnecessary,  and,  considering  its  liability  to  abuse,  should  not 
be  employed  except  as  a purgative ; but  when  their  acute  stage  has  passed  and  the  prod- 
ucts of  inflammation  show  no  tendency  to  be  absorbed,  mercury  sometimes  hastens  this 
consummation  in  a remarkable  degree,  even  when  all  other  medicines  have  failed  to  abate 
the  hectic  or  asthenic  symptoms  or  diminish  the  physical  evidences  of  the  causes  that 
produce  them.  Especially  is  this  the  case  when  the  local  lesion  is  engrafted  upon  a 
syphilitic  constitution.  When  under  this  dyscrasia  alone  the  lung  becomes  solidified, 
simulating  tubercular  infiltration,  a carefully-conducted  course  of  mercury  will  often  dis- 
sipate the  local  signs  of  disease  and  restore  the  general  health. 

Formerly  calomel  formed  part  of  the  established  treatment  of  dropsy , and  only  fell 
into  disuse  when  clinical  were  supplanted  by  so-called  rational  therapeutics.  Richter  in 
his  Materia  Medica  (1830)  declared  that  “ in  dropsy  calomel  is  of  almost  inestimable 
value,”  especially  when  neither  diuretics,  emetics,  nor  cathartics  avail.  He  advised  it  to 
be  given  in  divided  doses  amounting  to  4-6  grains  a day,  or  in  still  smaller  doses,  asso- 
ciated with  squill  and  digitalis.  This  method  was  the  usual  one  during  many  years,  and 
was  familiar  to  the  present  writer  between  1833  and  1840,  but  it  seems  to  have  been 
forgotten  until  it  was,  in  1885—86,  revived  by  Jendrassik.  He  found  it  most  beneficial  in 
cardiac  dropsy,  but  not  useless  in  others  of  like  mechanical  origin  ; and  observed  that 
there  was  no  uniform  relation  between  the  mercurial  sore  mouth  and  the  occurrence  of 
diuresis,  and  that  it  was  not  necessary  to  continue  the  medicine  after  the  diuretic  action 
began.  The  urine  discharged  was  always  watery  and  contained  a large  proportion  of 
cylindroid  cells.  In  healthy  persons  no  diuresis  was  occasioned  by  calomel  administered 
as  above.  It  also  failed  in  chronic  pleurisy  and  in  Bright’s  disease,  and  even  in  some 
cases  of  aortic  stenosis  and  mitral  insufficiency  ( Centralbl.  f.  d.  g.  Therap. ,\\.  74;  viii. 
549).  These  conclusions  have  been  in  the  main  confirmed  by  Koranyi  ( ibid .,  iv.  197), 
by  Stiller  and  by  Mendelsohn  ( Archives  gen.,  7 eme,  ser.  xix.  738),  by  Meyjes  ( Therap . 
Gaz.,  xi.  751),  Bird  (Centralbl.  f.  Med.,  v.  184),  Rosenheim  (ibid. , p.  366),  Leyden 
(ibid.,  p.  476),  Weinstein  (ibid.,  p.  560),  Meyes  (ibid.,  p.  635),  who  insisted  that  saliva- 
tion was  not  necessary  to  the  success  of  the  treatment,  and  is  also  unsuited  to  renal 
dropsies ; Stintzing  (ibid.,  vi.  85),  who  advocated  the  combination  of  calomel  and  digi- 
talis, as  did  also  Schwass  (Amer.  Jour,  of  Med  Sci.,  March,  1889,  p.  294),  Snyers  (Bull, 
de  Therap.,  cxvi.  189),  Ignatiew  (Centralbl.  f.  Therap.,  vii.  14),  who  considered  the 
medicine  of  little  avail  in  all  dropsies  that  were  not  of  cardiac  origin — a statement  made 
also  by  Huchard  (ibid.,  vii.  408),  and  more  recently  by  Pal  (ibid.,  vii.  65).  When 
formerly  employed  in  dropsy,  calomel  was,  as  before  mentioned,  usually  associated  with 
digitalis  and  squill ; and  a hospital  physician  of  the  day  was  in  the  habit  of  prescribing, 
the  combination  “to  gently  touch  the  mouth.”  The  above  results  have  been  more 
recently  confirmed  by  Fachler  (Jour.  Amer.  Med.  Assoc.,  xv.  233),  and  by  Garvens 
( Therap . Monatsh .,  iv.  180).  All  observers  agree  that  the  method  requires  caution, 
partly  to  limit  salivation,  and  partly  to  guard  against  cardiac  failure. 

Calomel  is  worse  than  useless  in  acute  articular  rheumatism;  it  neither  mitigates  the 
disease  nor  prevents  its  complications.  In  certain  cases  of  subacute  and  chronic  rheuma- 
tism involving  the  ligaments  of  the  joints  and  rendering  the  latter  stiff  and  painful  on 
motion,  a course  of  very  small  doses  of  calomel  will  sometimes  act  beneficially,  but 
more  advantage  will  be  derived  from  iodide  of  potassium.  Several  cases  published  by 
Dr.  Ormsby  illustrate  the  advantages  of  calomel  in  membranous  dysmenorrhcea  when 
given  so  as  lightly  to  affect  the  gums  (Med.  Record,  xx.  597).  Simpson  formerly 
attained  the  same  end  by  means  of  pessaries  medicated  with  mercurial  ointment  (Clinical 


830 


IIYDRARGYRI  CHLORIDTJM  MITE. 


Lectures , Amer.  ed.,  1863,  p.  109).  In  metritis , both  acute  and  chronic,  calomel  and 
opium  are  generally  administered  with  supposed  advantage.  In  diseases  of  the  kidney , 
whether  acute  or  chronic,  mercury  is  a mischievous  medicine.  Iritis , although  it  may, 
in  its  simple  form,  recover  without  mercury,  is  more  readily  cured  by  calomel  and  opium 
internally,  and  mercurial  ointment,  with  extract  of  belladonna  or  the  instillation  of 
atropine,  topically.  Syphilitic  iritis  should  always  be  treated  by  the  internal  use  of 
calomel,  if  not  by  mercurial  inunctions. 

In  jaundice  depending  upon  engorgement  of  the  liver  or  upon  obstruction  of  its  ducts 
with  thick  bile  saline  purgatives  are  the  appropriate  remedies,  but  the  English  custom  of 
first  administering  calomel  or  blue  pill  prevails  in  this  country.  It  is  by  no  means  cer- 
tain that  the  mercurial  renders  the  purgative  treatment  more  efficient.  It  can  do  no 
harm  as  an  occasional  remedy,  but  is  very  mischievous  if  habitually  taken. 

Among  mucous  inflammations,  pseudo-membranous  laryngitis , or  true  croup  (and  not 
diphtheria,  which  we  hold  to  be  a totally  different  affection,  vid.  Hydrargyrum),  is 
treated  by  calomel  internally  and  by  mercurial  inunctions,  in  the  belief  that  under  its 
operation  exudation-matter  will  form  less  densely  and  adhere  less  tenaciously,  and  hence 
be  rejected  by  coughing  or  by  vomiting  more  readily.  The  question  of  their  efficacy  is 
difficult  to  solve,  for  the  cases  of  the  disease  differ  widely  among  themselves  in  the  thick- 
ness and  tenacity  of  the  membrane  and  in  the  extent  of  its  deposit.  But  in  a disease 
with  such  fatal  tendencies  even  a doubtful  remedy  should  not  be  rejected.  But  that 
cannot  be  truly  called  a “ doubtful  ” remedy  of  which  we  read  that  it  was  given  to  a 
child  twenty-eight  months  old  in  a primary  dose  of  20  grains,  which  was  followed  every 
hour  by  10-grain  doses  until  during  three  days  720  grains  had  been  taken.  The  child 
recovered  from  the  treatment  (Med.  Record , xxvi.  36 : compare  Med.  News , xlvi..  672). 
In  syphilitic  laryngitis , which  is  generally  ulcerative,  calomel  or  mercury  in  some  form  is 
indispensable.  In  acute  bronchitis,  which  shows  no  tendency  to  decline  at  the  usual 
period  of  subsidence,  small  doses  of  calomel  repeated  until  the  mouth  begins  to  feel  its 
effects  will  often  promote  the  cure ; and  in  the  chronic  form  of  the  same  disease,  with 
dyspnoea  and  bronchorrhoea  depending  upon  thickening  of  the  bronchial  mucous  mem- 
brane, the  same  method  is  often  very  efficient.  In  acute  dysentery  calomel  has  been  used 
as  a purgative  and  in  small  or  so-called  alterative  doses.  There  appears  to  be  no  doubt 
that  in  the  asthenic  form  of  the  disease  purgative  doses  of  calomel,  if  given  in  the  form- 
ing stage,  will  modify  the  course  of  the  disease,  just  as  salines,  rhubarb,  and  ipecacuanha 
will.  There  is  no  reason  to  attach  any  special  importance  to  calomel  as  such.  Its  virtue 
resides  chiefly  in  its  mild  evacuant  and  protective  action.  In  this  disease  calomel  in 
small  or  fractional  doses  is  most  useful  when  associated  with  ipecacuanha,  and  least  so 
when  combined  with  opium.  The  advantage  of  the  latter  combination  consists  mainly 
in  its  negative  virtue  of  protecting  the  patient  from  perturbative  measures.  It  is  most 
suitable  when  the  acute  stage  has  begun  to  decline,  and  after  a judicious  evacuant  treat- 
ment has  mitigated  the  severity  of  the  attack.  A similar  remark  is  perhaps  justifiable 
in  regard  to  the  calomel  treatment  of  epidemic  cholera.  The  huge  doses  of  the  drug 
which  were  originally  used  by  the  British  East  India  surgeons  have  long  ago  been  con- 
demned, as  well  as  the  other  elements  of  their  crude  therapeutics.  Nevertheless,  they 
have  been  from  time  to  time  revived  by  persons  unacquainted  with  their  history.  If 
calomel  has  shown  any  special  virtues  in  epidemic  cholera,  it  has  only  been  when  it  was 
administered  in  doses  of  1 or  2 grains  every  five  or  ten  minutes,  with  1 or  2 drops  of 
laudanum  in  each  of  the  first  few  doses.  Knowing,  as  we  do,  the  stomach’s  complete 
loss  of  its  absorbing  functions  in  this  disease,  the  method  in  question  really  amounts 
to  a negative  treatment,  and  this,  it  is  pretty  well  settled,  is  more  efficient  than  any  of 
the  active  methods  which  have  prevailed.  No  doubt  that  calomel  has  been,  and  will 
again  be,  employed  in  cholera  as  a specific  destroyer  of  microbes,  but  the  validity  or 
invalidity  of  the  theory  cannot  alter  the  clinical  results.  The  hostile  influence  of 
mercury  upon  the  lower  forms  of  animal  life  explains  the  propriety  of  using  calomel 
purges  in  some  cases  of  lumbricoid  worms.  But  the  possibility  of  its  poisonous  action 
on  the  system  renders  it  less  eligible  for  this  purpose  than  other  direct  vermicides. 

It  is  perhaps  even  truer  of  calomel  than  of  other  mercurials,  that  it  should  be  very 
cautiously  exhibited  to  persons  suffering  under  a scrofulous,  tuberculous,  or  cancerous 
cachexia,  or  to  those  who  have  begun  to  exhibit  the  infirmities  of  old  age  or  who  are 
known  to  be  morbidly  susceptible  to  its  poisonous  influence. 

In  an  ointment — calomel  Gm.  4 to  Gm.  32  (3j,  lard  ^j) — calomel  is  sometimes  applied 
to  condylomata  and  to  limited  scaly  eruptions , and  in  powder  it  has  been  used  to  destroy 
maggots  infesting  wounds  in  hot  weather.  In  the  latter  form  also  it  has  been  applied  to 


HYDRARGYRI  CYANIDUM. 


831 


ulcers  of  the  cornea,  but  is  not  strongly  to  be  recommended  for  this  purpose.  Sclilaefke 
warns  against  the  application  of  calomel  to  the  conjunctiva  of  patients  taking  iodide  of 
potassium.  This  salt  is  then  abundantly  contained  in  the  tears,  and  converts  the  calomel 
into  iodate  and  iodide  of  mercury,  which  in  solution  exert  a caustic  action  ( Med . News 
and  Abst.,  April,  1880,  p.  211).  Calomel  alone,  or  mixed  with  starch,  has  been  applied 
to  the  face  in  the  forming  stage  of  small-pox  pustules  to  prevent  pitting. 

Calomel  is  most  conveniently  given  mixed  with  a little  syrup  or  enclosed  in  wafers. 
As  a purgative  dose , from  Gm.  0.30-1.30  (gr.  v-xx)  may  be  administered.  Children 
require  larger  doses,  in  proportion  to  their  age,  thftn  adults.  To  produce  its  constitu- 
tional action,  of  which  the  first  sign  is  usually  a metallic  taste  in  the  mouth  or  soreness 
of  the  gums,  Gm.  0.05-0.10  (gr.  j-ij)  may  be  given  three  times  a day,  with  l grain  of 
opium  ; but  still  smaller  doses,  more  frequently  repeated,  as  Gm.  0.005-0.006  (y1^-  or  y1^ 
grain)  every  hour,  will  affect  the  system  more  promptly.  Hypodermically,  1 grain  is  the 
average  dose.  It  is  recommended  that  calomel  should  not  be  applied  to  the  glans  penis 
for  balanitis  if  the  patient  is  taking  potassium  iodide. 


HYDRARGYRI  CYANIDUM,  TJ.  ^.-Mercuric  Cyanide. 

Hydrargyrum  cyanatum , P.  G. ; Hydrargyrum  borussicum , Mercurius  cyanatus  s.  borus- 
sicus,  Gyanuretum  hydrargyricum. — Mercuric  cyanide , Cyanuret  of  mercury , E. ; Cyanure 
(Bicyanure,  Prussiate')  de  mercure , Fr.  ; Cyanquecksilber,  QuecJcsilber- Cyanid,  G. 

Formula  HgCy2  or  Hg(CN)2.  Molecular  weight  251.76. 

Mercuric  cyanide  should  be  kept  in  well-stoppered  bottles,  protected  from  light. 

Preparation. — The  process  recommended  by  the  U.  S.  P.  1870  consists  in  dissolving 
mercuric  oxide  in  hydrocyanic  acid,  the  latter  being  prepared  as  the  first  step  by  acting 
upon  potassium  ferrocyanide  with  sulphuric  acid.  (See  Acid.  Hydrocyanicum,  page 
63.)  On  agitating  it  with  mercuric  oxide  a combination  is  effected,  resulting  in  the 
production  of  mercuric  cyanide  and  water  ; 2 H Cy  + HgO  yields  HgCy2 -f- H20.  Should 
an  excess  of  mercuric  oxide  be  present,  it  will  combine  with  the  cyanide  to  mercuric 
oxy cyanide,  HgO.HgCy2,  which  is  converted  into  cyanide  by  the  addition  of  a reserved 
portion  of  hydrocyanic  acid ; an  excess  of  the  latter  does  not  change  the  nature  of  the 
product,  and  is  volatilized  on  evaporating  the  liquid.  When  the  clear  liquid  has  been 
sufficiently  concentrated  it  is  set  aside  in  a cool  and  dark  place  to  crystallize,  and  the 
crystals  are  dried,  protected  from  the  light. 

This  is  not  the  only  process,  but  the  most  convenient  one,  by  which  mercuric  cyanide 
may  be  obtained.  On  boiling  pure  ferrocyanide  of  iron  with  mercuric  oxide,  mercuric 
cyanide  enters  into  solution  ; should  the  filtrate  contain  iron,  it  must  be  evaporated  to 
dryness,  the  residue  again  taken  up  with  water,  and  the  solution  evaporated  to  crystalli- 
zation. On  boiling  potassium  ferrocyanide  with  a proper  quantity  of  mercuric  sulphate, 
a complex  reaction  will  take  place,  resulting  finally  in  the  production  of  metallic  mercury 
and  of  a solution  containing  mercuric  cyanide,  potassium  sulphate,  and  ferric  sulphate, 
to  be  separated  by  crystallization  from  diluted  alcohol.  7HgS04  + 2'K4FeCy6  = Hg 
+ 6HgCy2  + 4K2S04  + Fe23S04. 

Properties. — Mercuric  cyanide  is  in  colorless  or  white  quadrangular  prisms,  which 
are  inodorous,  have  a bitter  metallic  taste,  and  are  permanent  in  the  air  if  the  light  be 
excluded.  The  salt  is  soluble  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  in  12.8  parts  of 
water  (U.  S.,  P.  G.)  and  in  14.5  ( P . G.)  or  15  (H.  S.)  parts  of  alco- 
hol, also  in  3 parts  of  boiling  water  and  in  6 parts  of  boiling  alcohol, 
but  is  very  sparingly  soluble  in  ether.  The  solutions  have  a neutral 
reaction  to  test-paper.  The  aqueous  solution  is  not  decomposed  by 
nitric  or  dilute  sulphuric  acid,  but  hydrochloric  acid  liberates  hydro- 
cyanic acid,  recognizable  by  its  odor,  and  mercuric  chloride  remains 
in  solution  ; it  yields  a black  precipitate  with  hydrogen  sulphide,  but 
does  not  give  the  ordinary  reactions  for  mercuric  salt  or  cyanide  when 
tested  with  alkalies,  potassium  iodide,  or  silver  nitrate,  double  com- 
pounds, mostly  crystalline,  being  formed,  which  are  more  or  less 
freely  soluble  in  water.  The  salt  is  blackened  by  exposure  to  the 
light,  and  when  carefully  dried  and  heated  is  decomposed  into  mer- 
cury and  cyanogen,  which  is  inflammable,  burning  with  a purplish 
flame ; but  when  rapidly  and  strongly  heated  the  crystals  decrepitate 
violently,  and  black  paracyanog^i  is  first  produced  before  the  whole 
is  finally  dissipated,  and  in  the  presence  of  moisture  carbon  dioxide,  ammonia,  and  hydro- 


Fig.  151. 


Crystal  of  Mercuric 
Cyanide. 


832 


HYDRARG YRI  IODIDUM  FLAVUM. 


cyanic  acid  are  evolved.  When  mixed  with  an  equal  weight  of  iodine,  and  heated  in  a 
dry  test-tube,  two  crystalline  sublimates  are  obtained,  the  lower  one  consisting  of  mer- 
curic iodide,  being  yellow  and  becoming  red  on  cooling,  while  the  upper  one,  consisting 
of  cyanogen  iodide,  is  white  and  has  a penetrating  acrid  odor. 

Tests. — Mercuric  cyanide  dissolved  in  water  should  not  impart  a brown  color  to  tur- 
meric-paper (absence  of  mercuric  oxycyanide).  “A  5 per  cent,  aqueous  solution  of  the 
salt,  when  mixed  with  a dilute  aqueous  solution  of  potassium  iodide,  should  not  yield  a 
red  or  reddish  precipitate  soluble  in  excess  of  the  precipitant  (absence  of  mercuric  chlo- 
ride).”— U.  S.  In  the  presence  of"  a little  chloride  this  test  is  apt  to  fail  unless  the 
potassium  iodide  solution  be  very  cautiously  added.  A much  better  test  is  the  follow- 
ing : The  solution  of  the  salt  in  twenty  parts  of  water  slightly  acidulated  with  nitric 
acid,  should  not  produce  a white  precipitate  on  the  addition  of  test-solution  of  silver 
nitrate.  The  absence  of  salts  of  other  metals  is  shown  by  the  complete  volatility  by 
heat. 

Action  and  Uses. — Mercury  cyanide  is  a violent  irritant  poison,  producing  also 
extreme  prostration  and  partial  cyanosis,  and  death  by  exhaustion.  In  other  words,  its 
action  includes  that  of  hydrocyanic  acid  as  well  as  that  of  the  irritant  mercurial  salts. 
It  has  been  used  in  the  treatment  of  constitutional  syphilis,  and  is  strongly  recommended 
by  Dr.  Macnaughton  Jones  in  doses  of  y1^  grain  three  times  a day,  but  not  to  the  exclu- 
sion of  arsenic  and  iodine  { Practitioner , xxxiv.  410).  A German  physician  claims 
that,  when  all  the  usual  remedies  for  diphtheria  had  failed,  he  succeeded  in  curing  nearly 
all  his  cases  by  administering  every  hour  grain  of  cyanide  of  mercury  (Times  and 
Gaz .,  Jan.  1881,  p.  101).  A similar  claim  is  made  by  Bree,  who  used  a solution  of  Gm. 
0.01  to  Gm.  10  (gr.  £ in  f^iiss)  of  diluted  alcohol,  of  which  2 or  3 drops  were  given  at  first 
every  quarter  of  an  hour  {Centralb.  f Ther .,  v.  403).  The  share  of  the  medicine  in  the 
alleged  result  is  more  than  problematical.  No  sufficient  reason  appears  for  retaining  so 
dangerous  a preparation  among  officinal  medicines.  Gm.  1.30  (20  grains)  of  it  caused 
death  in  ten  days,  and  Gm.  0.10  (2  grains)  a severe  illness  which  lasted  for  three  weeks. 

“ Cyanide  of  mercury  ” (HgOHgCn2)  was  proposed  by  Chibret  as  being  less  poison- 
ous and  more  antiseptic  than  the  bichloride.  Boer  claims  that  when  administered  hypo- 
dermically it  does  not  coagulate  albumen,  that  its  solution  is  neutral,  that  it  is  neither 
poisonous  nor  corrosive,  that  it  does  not  attack  surgical  instruments  as  much  as  corrosive 
sublimate,  and  that  it  is  not  decomposed  by  light  ( Therag . Monatsh .,  iv.  332). 

The  double  cyanide  of  mercury  and  zinc  was  proposed  by  Sir  Joseph  Lister  in  1889  as 
an  antiseptic  dressing  superior  to  all  others  ( Lancet , Nov.  1889,  p.  945  ; White  {Med. 
Mews , lv.  608;  lvi.  130),  but  it  was  soon  declared  to  show  no  superiority  to  the  pre- 
viously used  mixture  of  corrosive  sublimate  and  sal  ammoniac  (sal  alembroth),  and, 
indeed,  was  alleged  to  consist  essentially  of  cyanide  of  zinc  (Dott,  Lancet , Nov.  1889, 
p.  1133). 

HYDRARGYRI  IODIDUM  FLAVUM,  U.  8.— Yellow  Mercurous 

Iodide. 

Hydran/yri  Iodidum  Viride,  U.  S.  1880. — Hydrargyrum  iodatum  Jlavnm , Hydrargyni 
proto-ioduretum , loduretum  hydrargyrosum. — Protoiodide  of  mercury , yellow  {or  green'), 
iodide  of  mercury,  E.  ; Proto-iodure  de  mercure , Iodure  mercureux,  Fr. ; Queckstlberjodur, 
Gelbes  IodquecJcsilber,  G. 

Formula  Hgl  or  Hg2I2.  Molecular  weight  326.33  or  652.66. 

Preparation. — Mercury,  50  Gm. ; Nitric  Acid,  Potassium  Iodide,  Distilled  Water, 
Alcohol,  each,  a sufficient  quantity.  Mix  20  Cc.  each  of  nitric  acid  and  distilled  water, 
and,  when  the  liquid  is  cold,  pour  it  upon  the  mercury  contained  in  a small  glass  flask. 
Set  the  mixture  aside  in  a cool  and  dark  place,  and  agitate  it  occasionally  until  the  reaction 
ceases  and  a little  mercury  still  remains  undissolved.  Separate  the  crystals  of  mercurous 
nitrate,  which  will  have  formed  from  the  mother-liquid,  allow  them  to  drain  in  a glass  fun- 
nel, and  dry  them  on  bibulous  paper  in  a dark  place.  When  the  salt  is  dry,  weigh  oft 
40  Gm.  of  it,  and  dissolve  it  in  1000  Cc.  of  distilled  water  to  which  10  Cc.  of  nitric 
acid  had  previously  been  added.  Having  prepared  a solution  of  24  Gm.  of  potassium 
iodide  in  1000  Cc.  of  distilled  water,  slowly  pour  the  solution  of  potassium  iodide  into 
that  of  the  mercurous  nitrate,  under  constant  stirring ; allow  the  precipitate  to  subside, 
decant  the  supernatant  liquid,  and  transfer  the  precipitate,  together  with  the  remainder 
of  the  liquid,  to  a filter.  When  the  precipitate  has'  drained,  wash  it  with  distilled 
water  until  the  washings  no  longer  have  an  acid  reaction  upon  litmus  paper,  and  after- 


HYDRARGYRI  IODIDUM  RUB  RUM. 


833 


ward  wash  it  with  alcohol  as  long  as  the  clear,  colorless  washings  afford  any  color  with 
hydrogen  sulphide  test-solution.  Lastly,  dry  the  product  in  a dark  place,  between  sheets 
of  bibulous  paper,  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  40°  C.  (104°  F.).  Keep  it  in  dark 
amber-colored  vials,  and  expose  it  to  light  as  little  as  possible.  Instead  of  weighing  off 
40  Gm.  of  the  mercurous  nitrate  as  above  directed,  the  whole  of  the  crystallized  salt 
may  be  taken  and  the  amount  of  potassium  iodide,  etc.,  adjusted  on  the  proportions  given 
above. — U.  S. 

When  solutions  of  a mercurous  salt  and  potassium  iodide  are  brought  together,  mutual 
decomposition  results,  and  mercurous  iodide  is  formed,  together  with  a salt  of  the  alkali, 
as  shown  by  the  following  reaction  : Hg2(N03)2  -f-  2KI  = 2(HgI)  or  Hg2I2  + 2KN03. 

The  object  of  adding  the  potassium  iodide  to  the  mercurous  nitrate  in  the  official  pro- 
cess is  to  avoid  the  formation  of  mercuric  salt,  which  is  apt  to  occur  if  the  process  were 
reversed ; it  is  well  known  that  solutions  of  alkali  iodides  and  also  ferrous  iodide  will 
decompose  mercurous  iodide  into  mercuric  iodide  and  mercury,  the  mercuric  salt  being 
held  in  solution  by  the  alkali  iodide  as  the  so-called  iodohydrargyrate  of  the  alkali,  while 
the  mercury  is  precipitated  in  a finely-divided  state.  The  decomposition  is  readily  under- 
stood from  the  equation,  2HgI  + 2KI  = HgI2.2KI  + Hg. 

The  former  U.  S.,  Br.,  and  G.  Pharmacopoeias  all  directed  the  preparation  of  mercurous 
iodide  by  triturating  iodine  and  mercury  together  in  proper  proportions  in  the  presence 
of  a little  alcohol ; any  mercuric  iodide  formed  was  removed  by  washing  with  alcohol. 
The  Br.  P.  and  P.  G.  have  dismissed  this  compound  entirely  in  their  recent  issues,  1885 
and  1890.  When  prepared  by  direct  union  mercurous  iodide  is  much  more  green  in 
color,  and  this  is  also  the  case  if  appreciable  quantities  of  mercuric  iodide  are  present,  as 
may  be  seen  from  the  change  of  color  caused  by  exposure  of  the  yellow  iodide  to  sun- 
light, which  causes  decomposition  into  mercuric  iodide  and  metallic  mercury. 

Properties. — Mercurous  iodide  (official)  is  a bright-yellow,  amorphous  powder,  odor- 
less and  tasteless,  and  becoming  darker  by  exposure  to  light,  in  proportion  as  it  under- 
goes decomposition  into  mercuric  iodide  and  mercury.  It  is  wholly  insoluble  in  alco- 
hol or  ether,  and  almost  insoluble  in  water.  When  slowly  heated  it  assumes  at  first 
an  orange,  and  then  a red  or  red-brown  color,  becoming  yellow  again  on  cooling ; but 
when  quickly  and  strongly  heated,  it  is  at  first  partially  decomposed  into  mercury  and 
mercuric  iodide,  and  is  finally  completely  volatilized.  Mercurous  iodide  dissolves  in 
ammonia-water,  leaving  a gray  residue,  and  in  sodium  thiosulphate  solution,  leaving 
mercury,  and  yielding  a colorless  liquid,  which  on  heating  deposits  dark-red  mercuric 
sulphide.  When  it  is  heated  with  sulphuric  acid  and  a little  manganese  dioxide,  vapors 
of  iodine  are  evolved. 

Tests. — “ If  0.5  Gm.  of  the  salt  be  shaken  with  10  Cc.  of  alcohol,  and  filtered,  a 
portion  of  the  filtrate  should  be  scarcely  affected  by  hydrogen  sulphide  test-solution,  nor 
should  it  produce  more  than  a very  faint,  transient  opalescence  when  dropped  into  water  ; 
and  if  5 Cc.  of  the  filtrate  be  evaporated  from  a white  porcelain  surface,  not  more  than 
a very  faint  red  stain  should  remain  (absence  of  more  than  traces  of  mercuric  iodide. )” — 
U.  S.  Fixed  impurities,  if  present,  remain  behind  if  a portion  is  heated  to  redness  in  a 
porcelain  crucible. 

Action  and  Uses. — Green  iodide  or  protiodide  of  mercury  is  chiefly  used  in  the 
treatment  of  constitutional  syphilis , and  is  preferred  above  other  preparations  by  several 
eminent  syphilographers.  It  should  be  given  in  doses  of  from  Gm.  0.04-0.06  (gr.  f-1) 
three  times  a day,  and  gradually  increased  until  these  doses  are  trebled  or  more,  provided 
that  neither  salivation  nor  diarrhoea  occurs.  It  is  less  apt  than  calomel  to  produce  such 
effects.  The  following  formula  is  much  employed:  B.  Protiodide  of  mercury,  extract 
of  lettuce,  each  Gm.  3 (45  grains);  extract  of  opium  Gm.  1 (15  grains);  confection 
of  roses  Gm.  6 (90  grains).  Mix,  and  divide  into  sixty  pills,  one,  two,  or  three  to  be 
taken  daily. 

HYDRARGYRI  IODIDUM  RUBRUM,  U.  Br.— Red  Mercuric 

Iodide. 

Hydrargyrum  hiiodatum , P.  G.  ; Deutoioduretum  ( Biniodidum ) hydrargyria  Mercurius 
lodatus  ruber , Ioduretum  hydrargyricum. — Biniodide  of  mercury , Mercuric  iodide , E.  ; 
Deuto-iodure  ( Bi-iodure ) de  mercure , Iodurc  mercurique,  Fr. ; Rothes  Jodquecknlber , 
Quecksilberjodid,  G. 

Formula  Hgl2.  Molecular  weight  452.86. 

Preparation. — Corrosive  Mercuric  Chloride,  40  Gm.  ; Potassium  Iodide,  50  Gm.; 

53 


834 


IIYDRARGYRI  IODIDUM  RUB  RUM. 


Distilled  Water,  a sufficient  quantity.  Dissolve  the  corrosive  mercuric  chloride  and  the 
potassium  iodide  each  in  800  Cc.  of  distilled  water,  and  filter  the  solutions  separately. 
Pour  both  solutions  simultaneously  and  in  a thin  stream,  under  constant  stirring,  into 
2000  Cc.  of  distilled  water.  When  the  precipitate  has  subsided,  decant  the  supernatant 
liquid,  collect  the  precipitate  on  a filter,  and  wash  it  with  cold  distilled  water,  until  the 
washings  give  not  more  than  a slight  opalescence  with  silver  nitrate  test-solution. 
Finally,  dry  it  in  a dark  place,  between  sheets  of  bibulous  paper,  at  a temperature  not 
exceeding  40°  C.  (104°  F.).  Keep  the  product  in  well-stoppered  bottles,  protected  from 
light. — U.  S. 

Take  of  perchloride  of  mercury  4 ounces ; potassium  iodide  5 ounces  ; boiling  distilled 
water  4 pints.  Dissolve  the  perchloride  of  mercury  in  3 pints,  and  the  potassium  iodide 
in  the  remainder  of  the  water,  and  mix  the  two  solutions.  When  the  temperature  of  the 
mixture  has  fallen  to  that  of  the  atmosphere,  decant  the  supernatant  liquor  from  the 
precipitate,  and,  having  collected  the  latter  on  a filter,  wash  it  twice  with  cold  distilled 
water  and  dry  it  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  212°  F. — Br. 

Mercuric  chloride  and  potassium  iodide,  when  mixed  in  the  proportion  of  the  weight 
of  1 molecule  of  the  former  to  2 of  the  latter  salt,  decompose  each  other  into  mercuric 
iodide,  which  precipitates,  and  potassium  chloride,  which  remains  in  solution  : HgCl2 
-j-  2KI  yields  Hgl2+2KC1.  The  U.  S.  and  British  Pharmacopoeias  use  the  two  salts  in 
the  proportion  of  4 to  5,  which  is  a slight  excess  of  the  potassium  salt  over  the  theoret- 
ical quantity,  but  is  generally  necessary  in  practice,  owing  to  the  small  percentage  of 
impurities  always  present  in  commercial  potassium  iodide.  By  calculation  it  is  found 
that  4 parts  of  mercuric  chloride  require  for  complete  decomposition  4.898  parts  of  potas- 
sium iodide,  or  9 parts  of  the  former  require  11.02  parts  of  the  latter  salt.  By  mixing 
the  two  solutions  cold  the  red  iodide  is  separated  in  the  form  of  powder,  but  when 
the  hot  solutions  are  mixed  and  slowly  cooled  beautiful  crystals  are  obtained.  In  either 
case  the  yield  should  be  about  60  per  cent,  over  the  weight  of  the  corrosive  sublimate 
used. 

Properties. — Mercuric  iodide  is  a scarlet-red  amorphous  or  crystalline  powder  or  is 
in  brilliant  crystals.  It  is  permanent  in  the  air  if  kept  in  the  dark  or  in  diffused  day- 
light, but  acquires  a brownish  tint  in  the  sunlight.  It  is  inodorous  and  nearly  tasteless, 
a metallic  taste  being  slowly  developed  when  kept  upon  the  tongue.  On  being  heated, 
to  above  150°  C.  (302°  F.),  it  turns  yellow,  but  on  cooling  readily  resumes  its  red  color 
under  various  influences.  It  fuses  near  240°  C.  (464°  F.)  to  an  amber-colored  liquid, 
and  at  a higher  heat  sublimes  to  bright-yellow  tabular  crystals  which  after  cooling  are 
again  converted  into  the  prismatic  or  octahedral  red  crystals.  The  salt  is  very  spar- 
ingly soluble  in  cold  or  hot  water,  little  so  in  ether  and  diluted  nitric  acid,  but  more  freely 
soluble  in  hydriodic  or  hydrochloric  acid,  in  potassium  iodide  or  chloride,  in  many  ammo- 
nium salts,  in  solutions  of  mercuric  salts,  in  chloroform,  fixed  oils,  hot  carbon  disulphide,  etc. 
It  dissolves  in  130  parts  of  cold  and  in  15  (£7!  /S'.)  or  20  (jP.  G.)  parts  of  hot  alcohol,  crys- 
tallizing on  cooling  ; on  pouring  the  alcoholic  solution  into  cold  water  the  salt  separates 
as  a fine  yellow  powder,  remaining  suspended  in  the  liquid  and  gradually  turning  red. 
The  solutions  are  colorless,  and  are  partly  decomposed  by  potassa  solution,  a portion  of 
the  mercury  being  deposited  as  mercuric  oxide,  the  remainder  forming  a soluble  iodide  ot 
potassium  and  mercury.  On  heating  the  salt  with  solution  of  soda  and  glucose  or  sugar 
of  milk,  metallic  mercury  will  be  precipitated,  and  on  heating  it  with  sulphuric  acid  and 
black  manganese  oxide,  vapors  of  iodine  will  be  given  off.  When  a hot  solution  of  potas- 
sium iodide  is  saturated  with  mercuric  iodide  and  then  allowed  to  cool,  one-third  of  the 
latter  salt  crystallizes  on  cooling;  the  remainder  is  obtained,  on  further  concentration,  as 
yellow  prisms,  which  are  soluble  in  alcohol  and  ether,  but  are  partly  decomposed  by 
water.  The  crystals  are  mercuric  potassium  iodide  (2KI.HgI2)3H20,  more  generally 
known  as  potassium  iodohydraryyrate.  and  are  likewise  formed  on  adding  mercuric  chlo- 
ride to  an  excess  of  potassium  iodide. 

Tests. — Impurities,  if  present,  are  readily  detected  by  the  residue  left  on  subliming 
the  salt  (red  oxide  of  lead  and  other  non-volatile  compounds)  and  on  dissolving  it  in  hot 
alcohol  (vermillion,  etc.).  The  cold  alcoholic  solution  should  be  colorless  and  without 
acid  reaction  (mercuric  chloride),  and  on  the  addition  of  ammonia  should  merely  acquire 
a brown  color,  but  not  be  precipitated  (mercuric  chloride).  “ If  about  0.5  Gm.  of  the 
salt  be  shaken  with  10  Cc.  of  water,  the  filtered  liquid  should  not  become  more  than  very 
slightly  colored  by  hydrogen  sulphide  test-solution,  nor  afford  more  than  a slight^  opal- 
escence with  silver  nitrate  test-solution  (limit  of  soluble  chlorides  or  iodides')."  U.  /S. 
Pharmaceutical  Uses. — The  observation  of  Nessler  (1856)  of  the  effect  of 


HYDRARGYRI  IODIDUM  RUBRTJM. 


835 


Ammonia  upon  solutions  of  mercuric  iodide  has  resulted  in  the  discovery  of  a very 
delicate  reagent  for  minute  quantities  of  ammonia  or  ammonia  salts,  known  as  the 

Nessler  Reagent . — It  is  made  by  dissolving  50  Gm.  of  potassium  iodide  in  a little  boil- 
ing distilled  water,  and  adding  to  it,  carefully,  sufficient  boiling  hot  concentrated  solution 
of  mercuric  chloride  until  the  red  precipitate  formed  is  no  longer  redissolved  on  agitation ; 
the  liquid  is  decanted  and  filtered,  and  the  filtrate  mixed  with  200  Gm.  of  potassa  dis- 
solved in  a small  q'uantity  of  water ; when  cold  the  mixture  is  diluted  to  the  measure  of 
1 liter  by  the  addition  of  distilled  water.  The  addition  of  5 Cc.  of  cold  saturated  solu- 
tion of  corrosive  sublimate  is  recommended  by  some,  but  is  not  necessary.  (See  also 
Aqua  Ammonite,  p.  250.)  It  will  be  observed  that  this  is  a solution  of  mercuric  potas- 
sium iodide  in  caustic  potassa.  On  the  addition  of  ammonium  salt  this  is  decomposed  by 
the  potassa,  ammonia  is  liberated,  and  reacts  now  with  the  double  iodide  and  another  por- 
tion of  the  potassa,  resulting  in  the  formation  of  brown  insoluble  dimercur-ammonium 
(XHg2)  iodide,  potassium  iodide,  and  water,  as  will  be  seen  from  the  equation  NH3 
+ 2(HgI2.2KI)  -f-  3KOH  = NHg2I  -|-  7KI  -f  3H20.  If  the  ammonia  is  present  in  minute 
quantity,  the  color  is  best  observed  by  looking  through  the  column  of  the  liquid  contained 
in  a tall  test-tube  and  placed  on  white  paper. 

Y inckler  (1830),  Von  Planta  (1846),  and  Groves  (1858)  observed  the  beha  vior  of 
solutions  of  the  double  iodide  upon  solutions  of  vegetable  alkaloids,  which  led  F.  F. 
Mayer  (1862)  to  the  adoption  of  a tenth  normal  solution,  now  known  as 

Mayer  s Solution. — It  is  prepared  by  dissolving  13.546  Gm.  of  mercuric  chloride  and 
49.8  potassium  iodide  in  sufficient  distilled  water  to  obtain  1 liter  of  liquid.  The  present 
test-solution  of  mercuric  potassium  iodide  (see  List  of  Reagents ) is  identical  with  this. 
The  test  is  applied  in  acidulated  aqueous  solutions,  since  ammonia  would  also  be 
precipitated  if  an  alkaline  liquid  were  used.  1 Cc.  of  this  test  liquid  precipitates  of 


Aconitine,  0.0267  Gm, 
Atropine,  0.0145  “ 
Brucine,  0.0233  u 
Cinchonine,  0.0102  “ 


Coniine,  0.00416  Gm, 
Morphine,  0.020  “ 

Narcotine,  0.0213  u 
Nicotine,  0.00405  “ 


Quinine,  0.0108  Gm, 
Quinidine,  0.0120  “ 
Strychnine,  0.0167  “ 
Veratrine,  0.0269  “ 


The  end  of  the  precipitation  is  determined  by  filtering  a few  drops  of  the  liquid  tested 
upon  a watch-crystal,  and  by  placing  a small  drop  of  the  test  solution  alongside,  allowing 
the  two  to  run  together.  For  colorless  solutions  which  are  free  from  chlorides,  etc.  an 
excess  of  the  test  liquid  may  be  used,  and  the  excess  determined  in  the  filtrate  by  a 
standard  solution  of  silver  nitrate. 

Leifs  Reagent  (1854)  is  a solution  of  potassium  iodide  saturated  with  mercuric  iodide  ; 
its  behavior  to  alkaloids  appears  to  differ  to  a certain  extent  from  the  preceding. 

Action  and  Uses. — Biniodide  of  mercury  is  a powerful  irritant  poison;  Gm.  0.12 
(gr.  ij)  of  it  taken  with  Gm.  4 (gj)  of  iodide  of  potassium  caused  violent  gastric  pain, 
coma,  stertor,  opisthotonos,  and  convulsions.  As  an  internal  remedy  it  is  superfluous, 
and  dangerous  unless  very  cautiously  used.  It  may,  however,  be  given  in  constitutional 
syphilis  in  a solution  of  iodi*de  of  potassium,  and  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.004  (T\  grain), 
cautiously  increased.  As  a caustic  it  has  been  applied  to  the  treatment  of  lupus,  but  is 
inferior  to  other  preparations  used  for  this  purpose.  It  has  also  been  employed  in  oint- 
ments in  the  proportion  of  1 : 20,  and  from  that  to  1 : 5,  as  a stimulant  or  almost  caustic 
application  to  syphilitic  diseases  of  the  shin , goitres,  (vid.  Ung.  Hydrargyri  Iodidi  Rubri), 
chronic  glandular  indurations,  fistulous  ulcers,  and  chronic  inflammation  of  the  joints  ; in 
the  proportion  of  1 : 100  for  granular  eyelids,  etc.  A solution  of  biniodide  of  mercury 
one  part  in  absolute  alcohol  400  parts  and  water  20,000  parts  is  recommended  as  pref- 
ix. ,*e.to  a solution  of  the  bichloride  in  iridectomies , cataract  extractions,  etc.  ( Med.  News, 
hn.  i 20).  It  has  been  administered  subcutaneously.  Y von  claimed  for  the  solution  made 
according  to  the  following  formula  that  it  does  not  irritate  and  that  it  is  readily  absorbed  : 
biniodide  of  mercury  1 Gm. ; iodide  of  potassium  1 Gm. ; neutral  phosphate  of  soda  2 
; distilled  water  50  Ccm.  ( Practitioner , xxvii.  207).  It  has  been  used  as  an  obstetri- 
(<a  and  surgical  disinfectant  in  solutions  of  from  1 : 12,000  to  1 : 4000.  Levis  pro- 
nounced  it  “ four  or  five  times  more  powerful  as  a disinfectant  or  germicide  than  mercuric 
; c ori  e.  This  estimate  is  sustained  by  various  clinicians,  and  among  them  Bernardy 
( runs.  Phila.  Co.  Med.  Soc.,  Jan.  23,  1889),  who  also  claims  for  the  compound  a con- 
ro  ing  action  in  acute  and  chronic  bronchitis  when  applied  to  the  chest  or  inhaled  in  a 
; spray,  and  as  a disinfectant  or  deodorizer  of  typhoid-fever  stools. 


i 


836 


HYDRAEGYRI  OXIDUM  FLAVUM. 


HYDRARGYRI  OXIDUM  FLAVUM,  77.  S.,  Br.— Yellow  Mercuric 

Oxide. 

Hydrargyrum  oxydatum  via  humida  paratum , P.  G.  ; Hydrargyrum  oxydatum  prsecip- 
itatum  (yel  jlavum). — Precipitated  oxide  of  mercury , or  Mercuric  oxide , E. ; Oxyde  mer- 
curiquejaune  (precipite),  Deutoxyde  jaune  de  mer  cure,  Fr.  ; Pracipitirtes  ( Gelbes ) Queek- 
silberoxyd , G. 

Formula  HgO.  Molecular  weight  215.76. 

Preparation. — Corrosive  Mercuric  Chloride,  100  Gm. ; Soda,  40  Gm.  ; Distilled 
Water,  a sufficient  quantity.  Dissolve  the  corrosive  mercuric  chloride  in  1000  Cc.  of  warm 
distilled  water,  and  filter  the  solution.  Dissolve  the  soda  (which  should  contain  90  per 
cent,  of  sodium  hydroxide)  in  1000  Cc.  of  cold  distilled  water,  and  into  this  solution  pour 
gradually,  and  with  constant  stirring,  the  solution  of  corrosive  mercuric  chloride.  Allow 
the  mixture  to  stand  for  an  hour  at  a temperature  of  about  30°  C.  (86°  F.),  stirring  fre- 
quently. Then  decant  the  supernatant,  clear  liquid  from  the  precipitate,  and  wash  the 
latter  repeatedly  by  the  affusion  and  decantation  of  distilled  water,  using  1000  Cc.  of 
water  each  time.  Collect  the  precipitate  on  a strainer,  and  continue  the  washing  with 
warm  distilled  water,  until  a small  portion  of  the  washings,  when  poured  on  a little  mer 
curie  chloride  test-solution,  no  longer  affords  a yellowish  turbidity  at  the  line  of  contact 
of  the  two  liquids.  Then  allow  the  precipitate  to  drain,  and  dry  it  between  sheets  of  bibul- 
ous paper,  in  a dark  place,  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  30°  C.  (86°  F.).  Keep  the 
product  in  well-stoppered  bottles,  protected  from  light. — U.  S. 

Take  of  perchloride  of  mercury  4 ounces  ; solution  of  soda  2 pints ; distilled  water  a 
sufficiency.  Dissolve  the  perchloride  of  mercury  in  4 pints  of  distilled  water,  aiding  the  1 
solution  by  the  application  of  heat,  and  add  this  to  the  solution  of  soda.  Stir  them 
together  ; allow  the  yellow  precipitate  to  subside ; remove  the  supernatant  liquor  by 
decantation  ; thoroughly  wash  the  precipitated  oxide  on  a calico  filter  with  distilled  water,  ; 
and  finally  dry  it  by  the  heat  of  a water-bath. — Br. 

On  mixing  solutions  of  mercuric  chloride  and  soda,  sodium  chloride,  water,  and  mer-  . 
curie  oxide  are  formed,  the  latter  being  precipitated ; HgCl2  + 2NaOH  yields  2NaCl  + i 
H20  + HgO.  The  alkali  must  be  in  excess,  lest  some  mercuric  oxychloride  be  precip  ; 
itated  with  the  oxide,  and  it  is  essential  to  pour  the  mercuric  solution  into  the  alkali. 

The  foregoing  equation  shows  that  270.54  parts  of  mercuric  chloride  require  79.92 
parts  of  sodium  hydroxide  for  complete  decomposition  and  as  the  Pharmacopoeia  orders 
for  100  parts  of  mercuric  chloride,  40  parts  of  soda  containing  at  least  90  per  cent,  of  \ 
NaOH,  the  necessary  excess  is  assured,  for  40  @.  90  ==  36,  and  100  parts  HgCl2  require  { 
only  29.5  parts  of  NaOH.  If  the  soda  is  contaminated  with  carbonate  brown  mercuric  j 
carbonate  will  also  be  precipitated  and  it  is  therefore  essential  that  pure  alkali  be  used.  S 

Of  great  importance  for  the  appearance  of  the  oxide  is  the  temperature  at  which  it  is  j 
prepared ; the  lower  it  be  kept  the  brighter  will  be  the  yellow  color,  while  with  an  eleva-  , 
tion  of  temperature  the  red  tint  will  become  more  decided.  The  yield  is  nearly  80  per 
cent. 

Properties  and  Tests. — Yellow  mercuric  oxide  is  a heavy,  smooth,  impalpable, 
amorphous,  yellow  or  reddish-yellow  powder,  which  is  not  altered  in  the  air,  but  on  expo- 
sure to  light  becomes  dark,  in  consequence  of  partial  reduction  to  mercurous  oxide;  when 
heated  it  assumes  a red  color,  and  at  a sufficiently  strong  heat  is  decomposed  and  volatilized 
like  red  mercuric  oxide.  It  has  the  specific  gravity  11.0,  is  without  odor  or  taste,  and  is 
insoluble  in  water  and  other  simple  solvents,  but  dissolves  readily  and  completely  without 
effervescence  in  diluted  hydrochloric  or  nitric  acid.  When  digested  or  agitated  with  a 
solution  of  oxalic  acid  it  forms  white  mercuric  oxalate  (difference  from  red  oxidej. 
Heated  with  an  alcoholic  solution  of  mercuric  chloride,  it  speedily  turns  black  from  the 
formation  of  an  oxychloride  ; red  mercuric  oxide  slowly  undergoes  a similar  change  (Rou- 
cher).  It  should  be  completely  volatilized  by  heat,  and  its  solution  in  diluted  nitric  acid 
should  become  merely  opalescent  on  the  addition  of  test  solution  of  silver  nitrate  (limit 
of  chloride).  - 7$ 

Action  and  Uses. — This  preparation  is  used  chiefly  as  an  external  remedy  to 
stimulate  indolent  ulcers , especially  of  venereal  origin,  and  as  an  application  in  granular 
and  ulcerated  conditions  of  the  eyes.  It  is  applied  in  an  ointment,  which  is  officinal.  It 
has  also  been  given  internally  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.001  (gr.  g-1^-)  twice  a day  in  certain  ill- 
defined  dyspeptic  derangements.  In  1887,  Rosenthal  employed  in  treating  syphilis  hypoder- 
mic injections  of  1 part  of  the  yellow  oxide  in  20  parts  of  oil,  of  which  about  15  grains 


HYDRARGYRI  OXIDUM  RUB  RUM. 


837 


were  used  for  an  average  injection.  No  abscesses  followed  its  use,  and  he  concluded 
that  it  was  quite  as  efficient  as  calomel  ( Centralhl.  f Med.,  vi.  170)  Kuhn,  on  the  other 
hand,  found  it  less  so  (Med.  News , liii.  300).  Chernoguboff  considered  Gm.  0.12  (gr.  ij) 
doses  more  efficient  than  smaller  ones  ( Lancet , Oct.  1889,  p.  757). 


HYDRARGYRI  OXIDUM  RUBRUM, 

Oxide. 


XI.  S ,,  JBr, — Red  Mercuric 


Hydrargyrum  oxydatum.  P.  G. ; Hydrargyri  nitrico-oxidum , mercurius  corrosivus  (prse- 
cipitatus ) ruber , Oxydum  hydrargyricum — Peroxide  of  mercury , Red  precipitate,  E.  ; Deu- 
toxide  ( Peroxyde ) rouge  de  mercure , Oxyde  mercurique,  Precipite  rouge , Poudre  de  Jean  de 
Mg°,  Fr. ; Rothes  Quecksilberoxyd , Rother  Prdcipitat  ( Quecksilber-Prdcipitat ),  G. 

Formula  HgO.  Molecular  weight  215.76. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Mercury,  by  weight,  8 ounces  ; Nitric  Acid  4J  fluidounces  ; 
Water,  2 fluidounces.  Dissolve  half  the  mercury  in  the  nitric  acid  diluted  with  the  water, 
evaporate  the  solution  to  dryness,  and  with  the  dry  salt  thus  obtained  triturate  the  remain- 
der of  the  mercury  until  the  two  are  uniformly  blended  together.  Heat  the  mixture  in 
a porcelain  dish,  with  repeated  stirring,  until  acid  vapors  cease  to  be  evolved,  and  when 
cold  enclose  the  product  in  a bottle. — Br. 

In  this  process  mercuric  nitrate  is  formed  at  the  first  step;  this  may  be  directly 
decomposed  by  heat,  or,  as  directed  above,  it  is  previously  mixed  with  an  additional 
quantity  of  mercury,  which,  during  the  subsequent  heating  is  oxidized  at  the  expense 
of  the  nitrate.  In  both  cases  the  color  changes  to  yellow  and  then  to  red,  red  fumes  of 
nitric  peroxide  being  given  off.  Occasionally  a minute  quantity  of  nitrate  remains  unde- 
composed. The  decomposition  is  as  follows:  2Hg(N03)2  + Hg2  = 4HgO  + 2N204. 
Should  the  nitric  acid  employed  be  contaminated  with  hydrochloric  acid,  a corresponding 
quantity  of  mercuric  chloride,  and  finally  oxychloride,  would  be  formed,  the  latter 
remaining  with  the  mercuric  oxide  as  an  impurity.  The  last  traces  of  acid  may  be 
removed  by  boiling  with  diluted  soda  solution.  J 

Properties.— When  made  on  a small  scale  it  is  a finely  granular  powder  of  a yel- 
lowish-red color  without  lustre,  but  made  in  larger  quantities  it  is  obtained  in  the  form 
of  bright  brownish-red  shining  crystalline  scales,  which  on  trituration  yield  a fine 
orange-red  powder,  the  yellow  tint  increasing  with  the  fineness  of  the  powder.  It  is 
inodorous,  and  at  first  tasteless,  but  slowly  develops  a metallic  taste.  It  is  insoluble  in 
water  and  other  simple  solvents,  but  completely  soluble  in  diluted  hydrochloric  and 
nitric  acids.  It  is  permanent  in  the  air  if  kept  in  the  dark,  but  on  exposure  to  lio-ht  it 
becomes  superficially  black — however,  much  more  slowly  than  the  yellow  oxide.  When 
heated  its  color  is  changed  to  dark-red,  brown,  and  near  400°  C.  (750°  F.)  to  black  the 
original  color  reappearing  on  cooling ; but  at  a red  heat  it  is  completely  decomposed  ’into 
metal  and  oxygen. 

Tests.— When  strongly  heated,  mercuric  oxide  should  not  give  off  red  nitrous  vapors 
(absence  of  nitrate),  and  when  heated  to  full  redness  it  should  be  decomposed  and  vola- 
tilized without  leaving  any  residue  (absence  of  non-volatile  impurities).  On  bein«* 
agi.ated  or  digested  with  a solution  of  oxalic  acid  in  10  parts  of  water,  the  red  color 
■should  not  be  changed  (difference  from  yellow  mercuric  oxide).  Treated  with  diluted 
mtnc  aeid  in  excess,  it  should  yield  a colorless  solution.  A red-colored  residue  would 
ndicate  the  presence  of  brick-dust  or  of  vermilion,  the  latter  being  volatilizable  by  heat  • 
a brown  residue  (of  puce-colored  oxide  of  lead)  would  prove  an  adulteration  with  red 
•cati,  and  the  nitric  acid  solution  would  contain  lead,  recognizable  by  the  white  precin- 
lr!:!ppea1nng  ?n  ,the  additi?n  a little  sulphuric  acid.  The  nitric  acid  solution  should 

test  solu- 
mercuric  oxide  5 

ppntrotnri  c w yz  ,7  " V'  aim  alter  cooling  1 Cc.  of  con- 

lu1 bl,°°  0f  fcrrous  su^ate  be  carefully  poured  upon  the  acid  mixture,  a brown 
color  should  not  be  produced  between  the  two  liquids  (absence  of  nitrate). 

np  vi  pieParat10.n  formerly  official  in  various  pharmacopoeias  as  Mercurius  prsecipitatus 
ihieh  ca^lr}atus.  was  red  oxide  of  mercury  in  the  form  of  crystalline  scales, 

a temnl  f obtalned  by  keeping  metallic  mercury  in  a loosely-covered  flask  or  retort  at 
pletion  a UFe  near  ltS  bo1^ ling-point.  The  process  required  several  weeks  for  its  com- 

Qiaf^l°n  and  Uses'~ Red  Precipitate  is  a powerful  irritant,  and  taken  internally 
) act  as  a corrosive  poison.  Its  application  to  ulcers,  wounds,  etc.  has  been  frequently 


838 


HYDRARGYRI  SUBSULPHAS  FLAVUS. 


followed  by  its  constitutional  operation,  including  salivation.  The  last-named  effect  is 
said  to  be  unusual  when  the  medicine  is  administered  internally,  as  it  sometimes  has  been 
in  the  treatment  of  syphilis , in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.006  (y1^  of  a grain)  twice  a day  and 
gradually  increased.  Notwithstanding  its  irritant  action  and  its  tendency  to  salivate 
when  applied  to  ulcers,  this  preparation  has  been  used  hypodermically  by  Watraszewski 
in  the  treatment  of  syphilis.  He  alleges  that  in  doses  of  one  grain,  so  administered,  it 
causes  neither  local  irritation  nor  constitutional  derangement.  He  uses  from  two  to  five 
injections  at  intervals  of  six  or  eight  days  ( Tlierap.Gaz .,  x.  186).  Externally  it  is  gen- 
erally, used  in  the  form  of  an  ointment,  but  sometimes  it  is  also  applied  as  a fine  powder, 
mixed  with  sugar,  to  indolent  syphilitic  ulcers , condylomata , etc.,  and  even  to  granular 
eyelids , pannus , ulcers,  and  opacities  of  the  cornea.  But  for  the  latter  purposes  the 
officinal  ointment  of  red  precipitate  diluted  one-half,  or  more,  is  generally  preferable. 
A mixture  of  1 part  of  red  oxide  of  mercury  with  50  parts  of  finely-powdered  white 
sugar  was  much  used  by  Trousseau  as  a snuff  in  cases  of  ozsena , especially  when 
of  syphilitic  origin.  Before  it  is  applied  the  nostrils  should  be  cleansed  by  the  nasal 
douche. 


HYDRARGYRI  SUBSULPHAS  FLAVUS,  U.  S.— Yellow  Mercuric 

Subsulphate. 

Hydrargyri.  sulphas  flava,  U.  S.  1870  ; Hydrargyri  subsulphas , Hydrargyrum  sulphuri- 
cum  flavum , Mercurius  emeticus  Jlavus , Sulphas  hydrargyricus  Jlavus , Turpethum  miner  ale. — 
Basic  mercuric  sulphate , Oxymer curie  sulphate , Subsulphate  of  mercury,  Turpeth  mineral , 
E. ; Sulfate  trimercurique,  Sulfate  jaune  de  mercure,  Turbith  mineral,  Fr.  ; Basisches  Queck- 
silberoxydsulfat , Mercurioxydsulfat , Mineralischer  Turpeth,  G. 

Formula  Hg(Hg0)2S04,  Molecular  weight  727.14. 

Preparation. — Mercury  100  Gm. ; Sulphuric  Acid,  30  Cc. ; Nitric  Acid,  25  Cc. ; 
Distilled  Water  a sufficient  quantity.  Upon  the  mercury,  contained  in  a capacious  flask, 
pour  the  sulphuric  acid,  previously  mixed  with  15  Cc.  of  distilled  water,  then  gradually 
add  the  nitric  acid  previously  mixed  with  25  Cc.  of  distilled  water>  and  digest  at  a gentle 
heat  until  reddish  fumes  are  no  longer  given  off.  Transfer  the  mixture  to  a porcelain 
capsule,  and  heat  it  on  a sand-bath,  frequently  stirring,  until  a dry,  white  mass  remains. 
Reduce  this  to  a fine  powder,  and  throw  it,  in  small  portions  at  a time  and  constantly 
stirring,  into  2000  Cc.  of  boiling  distilled  water.  When  all  has  been  added  continue  the 
boiling  for  10  minutes,  then  allow  the  mixture  to  settle,  decant  the  supernatant  liquid, 
transfer  the  precipitate  to  a strainer,  wash  it  with  warm  distilled  water  until  the  wash- 
ings no  longer  have  an  acid  reaction,  and  dry  it  in  a moderately  warm  place. — U.  S. 

Mercuric  sulphate  is  formed  by  the  action  of  hot  sulphuric  acid  upon  metallic  mercury, 
the  combination  being  effected  with  decomposition  of  a portion  of  the  sulphuric  acid 
(see  Hydrargyri  Sulphas),  or,  as  in  the  above  process,  with  decomposition  of  nitric 
acid  ; Hg3  + 3H2S04  + 2HN03  yields  3HgS04  + 4H20  + 2NO.  On  adding  this  normal 
sulphate  to  boiling  water  it  is  converted  into  basic  sulphate,  while  an  acid  sulphate 
remains  in  solution.  The  result  varies  somewhat,  depending  upon  the  amount  and  the 
temperature  of  the  water.  Using  boiling  water  in  the  above  proportions,  the  yield  will 
be  about  75  per  cent,  of  the  weight  of  the  dry  mercuric  sulphate  used.  The  same  com- 
pound is  also  formed  by  slowly  pouring  a solution  of  mercuric  nitrate  into  an  excess  of  a 
boiling  solution  of  sodium  sulphate. 

Properties. — Yellow  mercuric  subsulphate  is  a heavy  bright  lemon-yellow  powder 
which  has  the  specific  gravity  6.44,  is  permanent  in  the  air,  inodorous,  has  a slight 
metallic  taste,  on  heating  becomes  red,  and  yellow  again  on  cooling ; at  a red  heat  it  is 
completely  volatilized,  being  at  the  same  time  decomposed  into  metallic  mercury,  oxygen, 
and  sulphurous  acid.  It  is  insoluble  in  alcohol  and  ether,  requires  2000  parts  of  cold 
and  600  parts  of  boiling  water  for  solution,  is  decomposed  by  potassa  solution,  yellow 
mercuric  oxide  being  formed,  and  dissolves  completely  in  sulphuric,  nitric,  or  hydro- 
chloric acid,  the  latter  solution,  according  to  Mohr,  containing  corrosive  sublimate  and 
free  sulphuric  acid. 

Tests. — “ The  salt  should  be  soluble  in  10  parts  of  hydrochloric  acid  without  residue 
(absence  of  mercurous  salt  or  of  lead).” — U.  S.  The  presence  of  nitrate  is  detected  by 
sulphuric  acid  and  ferrous  sulphate  in  the  same  manner  as  stated  for  red  mercuric  oxide. 
Non-volatile  impurities  are  left  behind  on  heating  to  bright  redness. 

Action  and  Uses. — Turpeth  mineral  is  a powerful  irritant,  and  in  sufficient  doses 
may  act  as  a corrosive  poison,  causing  active  erosion  of  the  fauces,  oesophagus,  and 


HYDRARGYRI  SULPHAS.— HYDRARG  YRI  S ULP1I ID  UM  RUB  RUM.  839 


stomach,  and  even  sloughing  of  the  first-named  parts,  as  well  as  salivation.  In  spite  of 
its  grave  effects,  turpeth  mineral  has  been  used  as  an  emetic  in  “ croup,”  by  which  was 
probably  meant  spasmodic  laryngitis.  The  employment  of  so  dangerous  a remedy  in  a 
disease  which  involves  no  danger  to  life  is  inexcusable.  The  emetic  action  of  this  pre- 
paration is  the  first  stage  of  its  poisonous  operation.  The  dose  fitted  to  produce  that 
effect  is  Gm.  0.13-0.20  (gr.  ij-iij)  for  a child.  Owing  to  its  tendency  to  salivate,  it 
should  not  be  employed  as  an  errhine.  It  seems  to  be  a superfluous  article  of  the 
materia  medica. 

HYDRARGYRI  SULPHAS,  Br. — Mercuric  Sulphate. 

Hydrargyrum  sulphuricum,  Mercurius  vitriolatus , Sulfas  mercuricus. — Persidphate  of 
mercury , Normal  mercuric  sulphate , E.  ; Deuto-sulfate  ( Persulfate ) de  mercure , Sulfate 
mercurique , Fr. ; Schwefelsaures  Queclcsilberoxyd,  Mercurisulfat , G. 

Formula  HgS04.  Molecular  weight  295.62. 

Preparation. — Take  of  mercury,  by  weight,  20  ounces ; Sulphuric  Acid  12  fluid- 
ounces.  Heat  the  mercury  with  the  sulphuric  acid  in  a porcelain  vessel,  stirring  con- 
stantly until  the  metal  disappears,  then  continue  the  heat  until  a dry  white  salt  remains. 
—Br. 

Mercury  does  not  dissolve  in  cold  sulphuric  acid,  but  on  heating  the  mixture  sulphur 
dioxide  and  watery  vapors  are  disengaged,  any  excess  of  sulphuric  acid  is  driven  off, 
and  the  residue  consists  of  mercuric  sulphate;  Hg2-j-4H2S04  yields  2S02  + 4H20 
-f-2HgS04.  This  is  now  named  Hy  dear gyri  per  sulphas,  with  the  above  title  as  synonym. 

Properties  and  Tests. — Mercuric  sulphate  is  a heavy  white  crystalline  powder 
which,  on  being  mixed  with  a small  quantity  of  water,  is  at  first  colored  yellow,  but 
after  some  time  is  converted  into  colorless  shining  prisms  or  silvery  scales  of  the  hydrated 
salt,  HgS04.H20.  A larger  quantity  of  water  decomposes  it  permanently  into  yellow 
basic  sulphate.  When  heated  to  redness  it  is  decomposed  into  mercury,  oxygen,  sulphur- 
ous acid,  and  mercurous  sulphate,  and  is  finally  completely  volatilized. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — It  is  employed  for  the  preparation  of  turpeth  mineral, 
corrosive  sublimate,  and  calomel. 

It  is  not  used  in  medicine. 

HYDRARGYRI  SULPHIDUM  RUBRUM. -Red  Mercuric  Sulphide. 

Hydrargyri  sulphuretum  rubrum , U.  S.  1870. ; Hydrargyrum  sulfuratum  rubrum  ; China- 
baris,  Sulfuretum  hydrargyricum  — Red  sulphuret  of  mercury , Cinnabar , Vermilion , Paris 
red , E. ; Sulfure  rouge  de  mercure , Cinnabre , Fr. ; Rothes  Schwefelquecksilber , Quechsilber- 
sulfid , Zinnober , G. 

Formula  HgS.  Molecular  weight  231.78. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Mercury  40  troyounces ; Sublimed  Sulphur  8 troyounces, 
To  the  sulphur,  previously  melted,  gradually  add  the  mercury,  with  constant  stirring, 
and  continue  the  heat  until  the  mass  begins  to  swell.  Then  remove  the  vessel  from  the 
fire  and  cover  it  closely  to  prevent  the  contents  from  inflaming.  When  the  mass  is  cold 
rub  it  into  powder  and  sublime. — U.  S.  1870. 

The  preparation  of  vermilion  is  carried  on  in  large  establishments,  and  will  hardly  ever 
be  attempted  by  the  pharmacist  except  as  an  experiment.  It  may  be  obtained  in  the  dry 
or  humid  way.  The  above  process  belongs  to  the  former  class,  but  a large  excess  of 
sulphur  is  directed,  61  troyounces  being  sufficient  for  the  quantity  of  mercury;  the 
excess  is  volatilized  before  the  cinnabar  is  condensed.  If  the  black  mass  obtained  in 
the  first  part  of  this  process  is  digested  with  solution  of  potassa  and  potassium  sul- 
phide at  a temperature  of  about  45°  C.  (113°  F.),  it  will  be  gradually  converted  into 
vermilion.  This  is  also  produced  by  digesting  white  precipitate  with  a solution  of  sul- 
phur in  ammonium  sulphide  or  of  sodium  thiosulphate. 

Cinnabar,  native  as  well  as  artificially  prepared,  has  been  known  from  a remote  period. 
Although  in  the  early  part  of  the  eighteenth  century  it  was  stated  to  consist  solely  of 
mercury  and  sulphur,  this  was  not  conclusively  proven  until  the  beginning  of  the  present 
century.  Fuchs  afterward  showed  that  it  has  the  same  composition  as  the  amorphous 
black  mercuric  sulphide,  differing  from  it  in  being  crystalline. 

Properties. — Sublimed  mercuric  sulphide  forms  brilliant  dark-red  crystalline  masses 
having  a fibrous  fracture  ; after  levigation  it  is  seen  in  commerce  in  the  form  of  a bright 
scarlet-red,  fine,  inodorous,  and  tasteless  powder.  It  has  the  spec.  grav.  8.12,  acquires 


840 


HYDRARGYRUM. 


a darker  color  on  exposure  to  the  sunlight,  hut  remains  unaltered  in  the  dark.  When 
heated  to  above  250°  C.  (482°  F.)  it  becomes  brown,  then  black,  and  finally  volatilizes, 
and  assumes  its  red  color  again  on  cooling ; heated  in  contact  with  the  air,  it  burns  with 
a blue  flame,  emitting  the  odor  of  sulphur  dioxide.  It  is  insoluble  in  water,  alcohol, 
ether,  hydrochloric  or  nitric  or  diluted  sulphuric  acid,  cold  concentrated  sulphuric  acid, 
or  diluted  alkaline  solutions.  Nitro-muriatic  acid  dissolves  it  without  heat,  with  the 
separation  of  sulphur  and  the  production  of  sulphuric  acid  and  mercuric  chloride.  It 
dissolves  in  boiling  sulphuric  acid,  forming  mercuric  sulphate  and  separating  sulphur ; 
also  in  alkali  sulphides  containing  potassa  or  soda.  Metallic  mercury  is  separated  by 
heating  vermilion  with  soda  to  redness ; by  boiling  with  water  and  iron  or  zinc ; by  zinc 
and  warm  diluted  sulphuric  acid,  etc. 

Tests. — Its  complete  volatility  by  heat  ensures  the  absence  of  red  lead  and  basic  lead 
chromate  (American  vermilion)  ; and  when  it  is  treated  with  warm  solution  of  potassa 
the  colorless  solution,  on  being  acidulated,  should  not  yield  a yellow  or  orange  precipitate 
(absence  of  arsenic  or  antimony),  nor  should  it  produce  a colored  precipitate  with  lead 
acetate  (absence  of  chromates,  iodides,  or  other  sulphides).  If  agitated  with  warm 
diluted  nitric  acid,  it  should  not  turn  brown  (absence  of  red  lead),  nor  should  the  filtrate 
be  colored  or  become  dark-colored  on  the  addition  of  hydrogen  sulphide  (lead)  or  of 
ammonia  and  ammonium  sulphide  (iron). 

Hydrargyri  sulphidum  nigrum,  s.  JEthiops  mineralis.  This  preparation  has  been 
very  properly  discarded  by  the  United  States  and  British  Pharmacopoeias,  but  is  still 
employed  on  the  continent  of  Europe.  It  is  made  by  triturating  equal  weights  of 
mercury  and  sulphur  until  all  metallic  globules  have  disappeared.  It  forms  a fine  black 
and  heavy  powder,  which,  when  viewed  with  a lens,  does  not  show  any  globules  of  uncom- 
bined mercury.  When  heated  upon  a plate  it  takes  fire  and  burns  with  a blue  flame, 
without  leaving  any  residue ; heated  in  a test-tube,  it  yields  a red  sublimate  of  vermilion. 
When  digested  with  hydrochloric  acid,  the  acid  liquid  does  not  yield  a white  precipitate 
on  being  diluted  with  water  (absence  of  antimony).  Ethiops  mineral  is  a mixture  of 
black  amorphous  mercuric  sulphide,  HgS,  with  a large  excess  of  sulphur.  Triturated 
with  an  equal  weight  of  antimony  sulphide  dzthiops  antimonialis  is  obtained. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  red,  like  other  metallic  sulphides,  is  less  irritating  than 
the  sulphates  of  the  same  metal.  Indeed,  there  is  much  reason  for  believing  that  in  its 
natural  state  it  has  no  action  at  all.  It  is  seldom  used,  and  then  only  by  fumigation, 
powdered  cinnabar  being  strewn  upon  hot  coals ; the  sulphuret  is  decomposed,  and  the 
fumes  contain  metallic  mercury  and  sulphurous  acid.  The  irritating  action  of  the  latter 
renders  the  method  objectionable.  As  occasionally  employed,  the  patient  is  enclosed  in 
a wooden  box  with  an  aperture  through  which  his  head  passes,  so  that  he  is  not  obliged 
to  inhale  the  irritating  fumes.  This  method  is  said  to  be  a very  efficient  one,  although 
not  without  the  risk  of  salivating,  causing  congestion  of  the  brain,  etc. 

Black  sulphuret  of  mercury  is  no  longer  officinal  in  the  German  Pharmacopoeia,  and  its 
activity  as  a mercurial  has  been  doubted.  It  was  considered  to  be  especially  adapted  to 
persons  of  delicate  constitution  or  feeble  health,  and  was  given  in  (relatively)  very  large 
doses,  such  as  from  Gm.  0.30-1.30  (gr.  v-xx)  several  times  a day. 

HYDRARGYRUM,  U.  8.,  Br B.  G.— Mercury. 

Hydrargyrum  vivum , Mercurius  vivus,  Argentum  vivum. — Quicksilver , E. ; Mercure , I if- 
argent , Fr.  ; Quecksilber , G. 

Symbol  Hg.  Atomicity  bivalent.  Atomic  weight  199.8. 

Origin. — Mercury  became  known  before  the  Christian  era,  but  long  after  silver  and 
gold  had  been  in  use.  It  is  principally  obtained  from  New  Almaden  in  California,  from 
Peru,  China,  Idria  in  Austria,  and  Almaden  in  Spain.  It  is  found  to  some  extent  in  the 
metallic  state  in  the  form  of  minute  or  large  globules,  also  in  combination  with  oxygen, 
chlorine,  selenium,  etc. ; but  the  principal  ore  for  extracting  it  is  cinnabar.  38,250 
pounds  of  mercury  were  imported  into  the  United  States  in  1877,  and  597,898  pounds  in 
1882. 

Preparation. — Most  of  the  mercury  is  obtained  by  roasting  the  ore  in  a kiln.  It 
is  placed  upon  an  arch  of  brickwork  containing  several  openings,  through  which  the 
flames  pass,  whereby  the  sulphur  of  the  ore  is  ignited  and  burns,  air  being  admitted  at 
the  same  time ; the  heat  thus  produced  volatilizes  the  mercury,  the  vapors  of  which, 
mingled  with  the  smoke  and  sulphur  dioxide  gas,  are  passed  through  a series  of  condens- 
ing-chambers,  where  the  metal  is  condensed,  the  incondensable  gases  finally  escaping 


HYDRARGYRUM. 


841 


through  the  flue.  This  is  essentially  the  process  as  carried  on  at  Idria  and  New  Almaden  ; 
likewise  at  Almaden,  except  that  the  vapors  are  passed  through  the  so-called  aludels , con- 
sisting of  cylinders  adapted  to  each  other,  first  in  a descending  and  then  in  an  ascending 
direction,  where  most  of  the  mercury  is  condensed  and  collects  in  a gutter  placed  under 
the  angle,  the  remainder  being  condensed  in  a large  terminal  chamber,  from  which  the 
gases  pass  into  the  flue.  In  the  Palatinate  the  cinnabar  is  mixed  with  lime,  and  in  Bohemia 
with  hammerslag,  and  then  distilled,  calcium  sulphide  remaining  behind  in  the  former, 
and  sulphide  of  iron  in  the  latter,  case. 

Mercury  appears  in  commerce  in  cylindrical  iron  flasks  containing  75  pounds  each.  In 
this  condition  it  still  contains  small  quantities  of  other  metals,  principally  lead,  which, 
however,  do  not  interfere  with  its  uses  in  the  silvering  of  looking-glasses,  in  the  amalga- 
mation process  for  the  extraction  of  gold  and  silver,  nor  in  the  preparation  of  some  chem- 
icals. For  barometers  and  thermometers,  as  well  as  for  some  pharmaceutical  preparations, 
a purification  of  the  metal  is  required  or  advisable,  and  may  be  effected  by  distillation  or 
by  the  following  process  directed  in  several  European  pharmacopoeias : 

Hydrargyrum  depuratum,  s.  purificatum.  Take  of  Mercury  100  parts ; Nitric 
Acid,  Distilled  Water,  each  5 parts.  Digest  in  a suitable  vessel  for  3 days,  shaking 
frequently.  Having  poured  off  the  acid  liquid,  wash  well  the  mercury  with  distilled 
water,  and  dry  it  completely. 

The  operation  is  best  conducted  in  a broad  glass  or  porcelain  vessel,  so  as  to  expose  a 
very  large  surface  of  the  metal  to  the  action  of  the  dilute  acid ; or,  as  proposed  by  L. 
Meyer,  by  allowing  the  mercury  to  run  slowly  in  a fine  stream  into  a long  glass  tube  con- 
taining the  diluted  acid.  Lead,  iron,  and  other  metals,  being  far  more  easily  oxidized  and 
dissolved  than  the  mercury,  are  thereby  removed,  though  a little  of  the  latter  likewise 
passes  into  solution.  After  washing,  most  of  the  water  may  be  removed  by  bibulous 
paper.  These  metals  may  also  be  removed  by  agitating  the  crude  mercury  with  concen- 
trated sulphuric  acid  or  with  solution  of  ferric  chloride,  the  latter  process  being  preferable 
for  operations  on  a small  scale. 

Properties. — Mercury  is  solid  at  a temperature  of  — 39.44°  C.  (—39°  F.),  and  crys- 
tallizes in  octahedrons  and  needles,  which  are  ductile  and  may  be  cut  with  a knife.  At 
the  ordinary  temperature  it  forms  a bright  silvery,  lustrous,  inodorous,  and  tasteless  liquid, 
which  is  very  cohering,  and  not  adhering  to  glass  or  paper  unless  it  be  impure,  when 
small  globules  will  tail  or  leave  a streak  upon  it.  When  triturated  with  sugar,  fat,  vari- 
ous salts,  oil  of  turpentine,  etc.,  it  is  converted  into  a gray  powder  consisting  of  minute 
globules  separated  by  the  foreign  substances  and  running  together  again  on  their  removal ; 
this  finely-divided  state  is  called  the  extinction  or  hilling  of  mercury,  and  is  accomplished 
in  making  mercurial  ointment  and  several  other  official  preparations.  Mercury  has  at 
4°  C.  (39.2°  F.)  the  specific  gravity  13.59,  and  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  13.5584.  It  boils  at 
about  357.2°  C.  (675°  F.),  giving  a colorless  vapor  of  6.98  spec,  grav.,  and  leaving  no 
residue;  it  volatilizes  very  slowly  even  at  the  ordinary  temperature.  It. is  permanent  at 
the  ordinary  temperature,  the  whitish  pellicle  which  forms  upon  the  surface  of  commercial 
mercury  being  due  to  the  presence  of  foreign  metals  (lead,  zinc,  etc.).  It  unites  directly 
with  chlorine,  bromine,  and  iodine,  and  dissolves  completely  even  in  dilute  nitric  acid, 
with  the  evolution  of  nitric  oxide.  All  simple  solvents  and  boiling  hydrochloric  and 
dilute  sulphuric  acids  are  without  action  upon  it,  but  hot  concentrated  sulphuric  acid  dis- 
solves the  metal,  sulphur  dioxide  being  given  off.  When  heated  to  near  its  boiling-point 
in  contact  with  the  atmosphere  it  combines  with  oxygen,  forming  scales  of  red  oxide. 

Tests. — The  purity  of  mercury  is  ascertained  from  its  behavior  and  properties  as 
described  above.  When  mercury  is  agitated  for  a few  minutes  with  the  official  solution 
of  ferric  chloride,  which  is  free  from  ferrous  chloride,  the  liquid  should  afterward  not 
yield  a blue  precipitate  on  the  addition  of  potassium  ferricyanide,  which  would  result 
through  the  solution  of  a foreign  metal  and  the  reduction  of  some  ferric  to  ferrous 
chloride  ; nor  should  the  liquid,  if  necessary,  after  being  acidulated  with  hydrochloric 
acid  yield  more  than  a mere  trace  of  a colored  precipitate  on  the  addition  of  hydrogen 
sulphide.  Hager’s  test  for  distinguishing  the  purified  from  crude  mercury  has  been 
adopted  by  the  U.  S.  P.,  as  follows : “ On  boiling  5 Gin.  of  distilled  water  with  5 Gm.  of 
mercury,  and  4.5  Gm.  (1.5  Gm.,  Hager)  of  sodium  thiosulphate  in  a test-tube  for  about 
1 minute,  the  mercury  should  not  lose  its  lustre,  and  should  not  acquire  more  than  a 
slightly  yellowish  shade  (absence  of  more  than  slight  traces  of  foreign  metals).” 

Oxides  and  Salts. — Mercury  unites  with  oxygen  in  two  proportions,  and  forms  two 
series  of  salts,  the  mercurous  and  mercuric.  All  soluble  salts  of  mercury  are  poisonous, 
have  a strong  metallic  taste,  and  mostly  an  acrid  reaction  upon  test-paper.  The  normal 


842 


HYDRARGYRUM. 


salts  are  usually  white,  and  the  basic  salts  yellow  ; treated  with  stannous  chloride,  phos- 
phorous or  sulphurous  acid,  or  other  deoxidizing  agents,  they  are  blackened,  and  finally 
reduced  to  metal.  Their  solutions  deposit  a silvery  coating  of  metallic  mercury  upon  a 
bright  piece  of  metallic  copper,  and  yield  black  precipitates  with  hydrogen  sulphide  and 
white  ones  with  sodium  phosphate.  Mercurous  salts  yield  black  precipitates  with  potassa, 
ammonia,  and,  on  boiling,  also  with  alkali  carbonates.  Hydrochloric  acid  causes  a white 
precipitate  of  calomel,  and  potassium  iodide  separates  a greenish-yellow  deposit.  Mercuric 
salts  yield  with  potassa  or  soda,  if  added  in  insufficient  quantity,  brown-red,  and  if  added 
in  excess  yellow,  precipitates — with  ammonia  and  ammonium  carbonate  white,  and  with 
potassium  or  sodium  carbonate  red-brown,  precipitates.  Hydrochloric  acid  does  not  dis- 
turb the  solutions ; potassium  iodide  causes  a scarlet-red  precipitate,  which  is  soluble  in 
an  excess  of  either  solution.  All  compounds  of  mercury  are  either  volatilized  or  decom- 
posed by  heat. 

Besides  the  mercury  compounds  mentioned  elsewhere,  the  following  are  in  use : 

Hydrargyrum  formamidatum  solutum.  Solution  of  mercuric  formamide,  was  first 
introduced  by  Liebreich  for  hypodermic  use  in  the  treatment  of  syphilis,  in  daily  doses 
of  1 Cc.  (about  16  minims)  which  corresponds  to  about  0.01  Gm.  (4  grain)  of  mercuric 
chloride.  It  is  prepared  by  dissolving  the  freshly  precipitated  oxide  obtained  from  10 
Gm.  of  mercuric  chloride  in  a sufficient  quantity  of  formamide  and  adding  enough 
distilled  water  to  bring  the  volume  up  to  1000  Cc. 

Hydrargyrum  bichloratum  carbamidatum  solutum.  Solution  of  mercuric  chloride 
and  urea,  a similar  preparation  to  the  preceding,  introduced  for  hypodermic  use  by 
Schiitz  and  Doutrelepont.  As  the  solution  readily  changes  it  should  be  prepared  extem- 
poraneously as  follows:  1.0  Gm.  of  mercuric  chloride  is  dissolved  in  100  Cc.  of  hot 
water  and  when  cold  5.0  Gm.  of  urea  are  added  and  the  liquid  filtered.  The  daily  dose 
is  1 Cc.  corresponding  to  0.01  Gm.  grain)  of  mercuric  chloride. 

Hydrargyrum  peptonatum  solutum.  Solution  of  mercuric  peptonate.  The  mercury 
compound  is  first  obtained  by  mixing  a solution  of  1.0  Gm.  mercuric  chloride  in  20  Cc.  of 
water  with  a solution  of  3.0  Gm.  dry  peptone  in  10  Cc.  of  water;  after  lapse  of  an  hour 
the  precipitate  is  collected  on  a filter,  drained,  and  added  to  a solution  of  3.0  Gm.  of 
sodium  chloride  in  47  Cc.  of  water ; solution  is  effected  by  agitation  and  enough  water 
then  added  to  bring  the  final  volume  up  to  100  Cc.  The  solution  should  only  be  used 
when  clear  and  free  from  sediment ; the  daily  dose  hypodermically  is  1 Cc.  corresponding 
to  0.01  Gm.  (4  grain)  of  mercuric  chloride. 

Hydrargyrum  phenylicum.  Mercuric  phenate  (carbolate).  Two  preparations 
occur  under  this  name,  Gamberini' s basic  mercuric  phenate,  HgOHOC6H5  and  Merck's 
normal  mercuric  phenate  or  mercuric  diphenate,  Hg(OC6H5)2 ; the  latter  is  a stable  com- 
bination and  should  be  dispensed  whenever  mercuric  phenate  is  prescribed.  It  is  prepared 
by  dissolving  188  parts  of  liquefied  carbolic  acid  and  56  parts  of  potassium  hydroxide  in 
just  sufficient  alcohol  with  the  aid  of  heat  and  adding  to  this  under  constant  stirring  an 
alcoholic  solution  of  135  parts  of  mercuric  chloride  ; a yellowish-colored  precipitate  is 
formed  which  becomes  almost  colorless  as  the  mass  is  evaporated  to  dryness.  After 
washing  with  hot  water  slightly  acidulated  with  acetic  acid  the  salt  is  crystallized  from 
hot  alcohol.  It  is  usually  given  in  pill  form  to  adults  in  doses  of  0.02-0.03  Gm.  (4  to  £ 
grain)  twice  daily. 

Hydrargyri  salicylas.  Secondary  mercuric  salicylate.  HgC7H403— Hg0C6H4C02. 
This  salt  has  been  prepared  by  adding  15  parts  of  salicylic  acid  to  the  freshly  precipitated 
and  well  washed  oxide  obtained  from  27  parts  of  mercuric  chloride,  previously  rubbed 
into  a soft  magma  with  water ; the  mixture  is  heated  with  frequent  agitation,  on  a water- 
bath  until  the  yellow  color  gradually  disappears  and  snow-white  salicylate  results.  The 
salt  is  washed  with  warm  water  to  remove  excess  of  acid,  then  drained  and  dried  ; it  is 
amorphous,  odorless  and  tasteless  and  insoluble  in  alcohol  and  water,  but  soluble  in  soda 
solution,  forming  a double  salt,  and  also  in  sodium  chloride  solution.  Mercuric  salicylate 
is  administered  in  pill  form  in  doses  of  0.01-0.03  Gm.  (4-4  grain)  three  times  a day, 
gradually  increased  to  0.06  or  0.075  Gm.(l  or  14  grains). 

Hydrargyrum  tannicum  oxydulatum.  Mercurous  tannate  has  been  proposed  by 
Lustgarten  as  a substitute  for  the  other  mercurials  in  the  treatment  of  syphilis,  etc.  In 
the  dose  of  from  3 to  5 gr.  (Gm.  0.25—0.30)  a day  it  appears  as  mercury  in  the  urine 
after  the  lapse  of  24  hours.  It  does  not  salivate  or  disturb  the  stomach  or  bowels.  In 
ten  cases  of  various  forms  of  constitutional  syphilis  its  effects  were  quite  as  favorable  as 
those  of  mercurial  ointment  ( Centralblatt  f d.  ges.  Ther.,  ii.  93). 

It  is  prepared  as  follows : 50  parts  of  freshly  prepared  mercurous  nitrate  (free  from 


HYDRARGYRUM. 


843 


oxide)  are  triturated  in  a mortar  to  an  impalpable  powder ; to  this  is  added  a carefully 
prepared  mixture  of  30  parts  of  tannin  and  50  parts  of  distilled  water.  The  whole  is 
then  triturated  until  a homogeneous  mass  is  obtained,  entirely  free  from  grittiness.  3000  or 
4000  parts  of  water  are  gradually  added  and  the  green  precipitate  repeatedly  washed 
with  cold  water  as  long  as  a trace  of  nitric  acid  remains ; finally  the  mass  is  drained  and 
dried  on  porous  tiles  at  a temperature  not  above  30°  or  40°  C.  (86°  or  104°  F.).  The 
compound  contains  about  50  per  cent,  of  metallic  mercury,  is  odorless  and  tasteless  and 
insoluble  in  ordinary  simple  solvents  ; when  treated  with  alcohol  or  water,  it  gives  up  tan- 
nin, however,  to  these  liquids. 

Metallic  writing-pencils  have  been  prepared  by  melting  together  bismuth  90  parts  and 
lead  70  parts,  then  adding  mercury  8 parts,  and  casting  in  suitable  moulds.  By  increas- 
ing the  proportion  of  lead  and  mercury  softer  pencils,  producing  darker  marks,  are 
obtained. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  mode  of  action  of  mercury  may  be  regarded  as  the  fol- 
lowing : Being  essentially  non-nutritive,  yet  penetrating  every  tissue,  it  probably  acts  in 
small  and  transient  doses  as  a stimulant  of  all  organic  processes,  but  in  a little  greater  pro- 
portion and  by  continued  use  it  impairs  nutrition,  hindering  the  formation  of  tissue  on 
the  one  hand,  and  on  the  other  hastening  its  destruction  and  elimination.  At  the  same 
time  it  augments  more  or  less  the  glandular  secretions.  It  diminishes  the  proportion  of 
fibrin,  and,  by  its  toxical  action,  the  proportion  and  probably  also  the  constitution  of  the 
red  corpuscles  in  the  blood.  Thus,  hindering  nutrition  at  every  step  of  the  latter 
action,  mercury  causes  the  waste  of  all  the  tissues,  and  especially  of  those  least  organ- 
ized, as  cicatrices  and  callus,  and  favors  the  removal  of  all  plastic  exudations.  These 
effects  are  essentially  morbid  and  destructive,  and  only  incidentally  and  within  varying 
limits  can  they  become  salutary. 

It  is  probable  that  as  much  injury  has  been  inflicted  by  the  use  of  mercury  in  pri- 
mary syphilis  as  good  has  been  accomplished  by  its  administration  in  the  constitutional 
forms  of  the  disease.  And  when  it  is  considered  that  every  simple  sore  following  a sus, 
pected  coition  was  apt  to  be  treated  as  syphilitic  by  mercurialization  of  the  system,  it 
may  be  a question  whether,  on  the  whole,  the  medicine  has  not  been  more  mischievous 
than  useful.  In  regard  even  to  true  chancres,  although  mercurials  will  sometimes 
hasten  their  cure  by  lessening  their  induration,  and  may  thereby  postpone  constitutional 
infection,  it  does  not  in  any  case  prevent  that  result,  nor  even  the  enlargement  of  the 
inguinal  glands.  Moreover,  in  certain  states  of  the  primary  sore  and  of  the  patient’s 
system  mercury  aggravates  the  disease.  Such  is  the  case  when  the  skin  around  the  sore 
is  very  red,  swollen,  tense,  and  painful,  or  shows  a tendency  to  gangrene — when  the 
patient  is  anaemic,  scrofulous,  tuberculous,  or  scorbutic,  or  has  been  an  habitual  drunk- 
ard. Opinions  differ  in  regard  to  treating  pregnant  syphilitic  women  with  mercury ; 
the  better  opinion  is  in  favor  of  the  measure  for  the  sake  of  the  child  as  well  as  the  mother. 
But  this  judgment  refers  to  secondary,  not  to  primary,  syphilis. 

Until  comparatively  recent  times  the  treatment  of  constitutional  syphilis  consisted  in 
the  administration  of  mercury  for  the  purpose  of  exciting  profuse  salivation,  which  was 
maintained  for  four  or  five  weeks  at  a time.  The  disastrous  consequences  of  this  method, 
which  had  no  other  reason  for  its  use  than  the  hypothesis  that  the  syphilitic  poison  was 
to  be  eliminated  with  the  saliva,  and  which  thus  illustrated  the  folly  and  dangers  of 
a-priori  therapeutics,  caused  it  at  last  to  be  abandoned,  and  it  is  now  certain  that  mer- 
cury cures  syphilis  without  salivation  better  than  by  means  of  it.  The  dose  of  mer- 
cury, however  used,  should  at  first  always  be  small,  and  gradually  increased  until  its 
effects  on  the  disease  begin  to  appear  or  slight  soreness  of  the  gums  occurs ; it  should 
then  be  continued  in  a diminished  quantity,  or  even  temporarily  suspended  if  the  symp- 
toms begin  to  decline,  but  it  should  never  be  abandoned  as  long  as  any  trace  of  the  dis- 
ease remains.  This  often  involves  a course  of  six  months’,  or  even  of  several  years’, 
duration  ; but  it  is  safe,  while  the  method  of  treatment  with  large  doses  of  mercury  is 
always  hazardous.  (Compare  Gougenheim,  Ball,  et  Mem.  de  la  Soc.  de  Therap .,  1883,  p. 
97.)  The  idea  that  rules  the  modern  use  of  mercury  in  syphilis  is  that  the  medicine  is 
strictly  antidotal  to  the  morbid  poison,  and  that  the  latter  is  not  to  be  removed  by 
heroic  attacks,  but  by  gradual  and  steady  undermining.  It  is  generally  recognized  as  a 
fundamental  precept  that  when  the  treatment  is  internal  a course  of  mercurials  lasting 
for  at  least  six  months  is  indispensable,  and  that  even  then  the  permanent  cure  of  the 
disease  can  only  be  determined  by  watching  the  result  of  a temporary  suspension  of  the 
medicine.  Hypodermic  treatment  of  much  shorter  duration  is  held  to  secure  immu- 
nity. 


844 


HYDRARGYRUM. 


The  treatment  by  inunction  with  mercurial  ointment  may  be  referred  to  here.  It  is 
one  of  the  oldest  modes  of  employing  mercury  in  this  disease,  and  is  still  a favorite 
hospital  method,  but  it  is  too  filthy  for  private  practice,  and  it  necessarily  betrays  the 
nature  of  the  patient’s  disease.  It,  moreover,  ruins  all  the  body-  and  bed-clothing  that 
is  used.  The  advantages  attributed  to  it  are  that  it  is  much  less  likely  to  disorder  the 
bowels  than  mercury  taken  by  the  mouth  ; it  cures,  also,  more  quickly  and  with  less  risk 
of  injuring  the  constitution.  It  is  chiefly  appropriate  to  the  treatment  of  syphilitic 
affections  of  the  skin,  and,  next  to  these,  but  far  less  efficiently,  to  ulcerated  states  of 
the  mouth  and  throat,  and  still  less  to  syphilitic  disorders  of  the  nervous  system. 
Syphilis  of  the  bones  and  their  annexes  is  more  successfully  treated  with  iodide  of 
potassium.  Before  commencing  mercurial  inunction  the  patient  should  live  for  some  days 
on  simple  food,  use  laxative  medicine,  and  cleanse  the  skin  thoroughly  by  warm  bathing. 
Immediately  afterward,  in  bed  or  near  a warm  fire  in  winter,  the  ointment  should  be 
methodically  rubbed  into  the  skin  with  the  hand  protected  by  a caoutchouc  glove  or  a 
piece  of  softened  pig’s  bladder.  The  places  selected  for  friction  should  be  used  alter- 
nately or  in  succession,  as  the  thighs,  the  armpits,  the  legs,  the  arms,  etc.,  and  if  the 
part  is  hairy  it  should  be  shaven  and  the  friction  made  in  the  direction  of  the  hairs. 
About  Gm.  8 (2  drachms)  should  be  rubbed  in  daily  for  five  or  six  days,  at  the  end  of 
which  time  the  patient  should  have  a warm  bath  with  soap  and  be  allowed  to  quit  his 
bed,  but  warmly  clothed.  After  an  interval  of  a week  the  same  discipline  should  be 
renewed,  and  this  generally  suffices  for  a cure.  The  result  is  supposed  to  be  quick- 
ened by  the  use  of  sudorific  diet-drinks,  such  as  the  compound  decoction  of  sarsaparilla. 
Mercurial  inunction  of  syphilitic  infants  is  conveniently  performed  by  enveloping  the 
trunk  of  the  patient  with  a flannel  band  that  has  been  smeared  with  mercurial  ointment. 
The  use  of  other  mercurial  compounds  in  syphilis  is  treated  of  in  connection  with  the 
several  preparations  of  the  medicine,  and  also  the  hypodermic  use  of  mercurial  salts, 
which  possesses  all  the  advantages,  with  none  of  the  special  disadvantages,  belonging  to 
the  method  by  inunction  ( Centralbl . /.  Ther .,  i.  355).  These  include  a possibly  fatal 
result.  Two  such  cases  occurred  in  1887  ( Arch . gen.,  Sept.  1887,  p.  364).  Mercurial 
soap  has  been  used  in  place  of  mercurial  ointment,  with  alleged  success.  It  has  a great 
advantage  over  the  ointment  in  cleanliness  (Oberlander,  Centralbl.  f Ther.,  i.  150  ; Shus- 
ter, Therap.  Gaz.,  x.  47.) 

In  the  greater  number  of  febrile  and  inflammatory  affections  calomel  is  the  form  of 
mercury  usually  selected  by  those  who  believe  mercurials  appropriate  to  these  diseases, 
but  sometimes  its  action  is  supplemented  by  the  use  of  mercurial  ointment,  as  in  acute 
meningitis,  pericarditis,  hepatitis , etc.  In  these  cases  it  is  generally  applied  upon  a blis- 
tered surface.  But  mercurial  ointment  used  by  inunction  of  the  abdomen  has  been 
claimed  by  Kalb  to  be  an  efficient  remedy  for  typhoid  fever  ( Berlin . Min.  Wochensch .,  Jan. 
19,  1885).  No  other  clinician  appears  to  have  adopted  this  unreasonable  practice. 
Berthel  and  Moritz  claim  a great  improvement  in  the  mortality  from  pneumonia,  which 
they  ascribe  to  the  use  of  inunctions  of  from  one  to  three  drachms  of  mercurial  oint- 
ment daily  into  the  abdomen,  loins,  and  limbs  of  the  patients.  It  caused  but  little  if 
any  salivation  ( Centralbl.  f d.  g.  Therap.,  iv.  128).  This  filthy  method  with  its  very 
questionable  results  does  not  commend  itself  to  acceptance.  Gray  oil  (ol.  cinereum  — 
mercury,  and  lanolin,  each  3 parts  ; olive  oil,  4 parts)  has  been  used  subcutaneously  in  mild 
cases  of  syphilis,  Gm.  0.25  (about  4 minims)  weekly  (Hartmann,  Therap.  Monatsh.,  iv. 
210;  Centralbl.  f Therap.,  viii.  313).  In  acute  dyspepsia , often  accompanied  with  jaun- 
dice and  produced  by  excesses  in  eating  and  drinking  and  a constipated  habit,  a super- 
stitious belief  prevails  among  English  physicians  and  their  American  copyists  that  the 
sovereign  remedy  is  blue  pill,  followed  by  a saline  cathartic.  Other  nations,  it  is  true, 
relieve  such  symptoms  by  the  saline  alone  or  by  rhubarb  and  aloes  along  with  it. 
Whenever  congestion  of  the  liver  is  associated  with  enlargement  of  the  spleen,  the 
administration  of  blue  pill  or  other  mercurial  is  extremely  apt  to  be  followed  by  profuse 
salivation,  and  even  by  gangrene  of  the  mouth.  An  apparent  exception  to  this  rule  is 
the  cure  of  malarial  enlargement  of  the  spleen  by  the  external  use  of  biniodide  of  mer- 
cury. Mercury  in  various  forms  and  combinations  has  been  used  advantageously  in  the 
treatment  of  dropsy.  Indeed,  it  is  distinctly  diuretic.  According  as  the  dropsy  is  of 
cardiac,  hepatic,  or  splenic  origin  the  mercury  should  be  associated  with  digitalis,  squill, 
salines,  etc.  In  renal  dropsy  it  is  apt  to  salivate.  Metallic  mercury  has  been  used  to 
overcome  intestinal  obstructions  supposed  to  be  formed  by  invagination,  and  also  to  expel 
intestinal  worms.  A case  of  the  former  sort  in  which  the  expedient  was  successful 
occurred  in  1879  (Med.  Record , xvii.  121  ; another  in  1884,  Jour . Amer.  Med.  Jsso., 


HYDRARGYRUM. 


845 


iii.  578).  Bettelheim  has  reported  seventy  cases  “ of  intestinal  stenosis,  of  which  fifty- 
seven  were  relieved”  by  this  expedient  alone,  and  in  six  it  saved  the  lives  of  the  patients 
(Phila.  Med.  Times , xiv.  174).  Mercurial  ointment  is  probably  the  best  remedy  for 
ascarides  of  the  rectum.  It  is  generally  used  as  an  application  around  the  eye  in  the 
treatment  of  acute  iritis,  along  with  the  internal  use  of  calomel.  It  is  a valuable  aux- 
iliary also  in  the  treatment  of  true  croup  (pseudo-membranous  laryngitis),  when  it  should, 
from  the  commencement  of  the  attack,  but  only  in  primary  and  sthenic  cases,  be  rubbed 
into  the  axillae  and  the  groins.  It  is  of  all  medicines  the  least  to  be  advised  in  diph- 
theria, which  is  always  an  asthenic  disease.  And  yet  that  it  has  been  so  is  shown  by  the 
sharp  and  well-merited  criticism  of  Jacobi,  who  says:  u That  it  should  be  recommended 
as  a panacea  in  all  classes  and  forms  of  diphtheria  shows  that  common  sense  and  sound 
judgment  do  not  always  prevail  in  the  treatment  of  a disease  where  individualizing  is 
of  the  utmost  importance  ” (A  Treatise  on  Diphtheria , p.  188).  The  source  of  this 
deplorable  error  is  in  confounding  epidemic  diphtheria  with  true  membranous  croup. 
Mercurial  ointment  relieves  the  pain  and  is  said  to  subdue  inflammation  in  paronychia  ; 
it  has  an  analogous  effect  in  erysipelas;  and  there  is  reason  to  believe  that  it  checks  the 
development  of  small-pox  pustules,  and  thereby  tends  to  prevent  their  pitting.  Metallic 
mercury  has  been  successfully  used  to  amalgamate  with  a gold  ring  which  had  become 
too  tight  for  the  finger,  and  to  render  it  so  brittle  that  it  readily  broke  under  pressure. 
The  ring  in  such  cases  should  first  be  cleansed  with  alcohol  or  ether. 

Metallic  mercury  is  seldom  given  internally,  except  as  above  mentioned  and  in  the 
modified  form  of  blue  pill.  (See  Pil.  Hydrargyri.) 

Carbolate  of  mercury,  recommended  by  Gamberini  and  Shadek,  has  been  found  an 
efficient  remedy  for  syphilis  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.008  (gr.  J)  three  or  four  times  a day  ( Cen - 
trail,  f.  Therap.,  iv.  397  ; Med.  Record , xxxii.  217). 

Formamidate  of  mercury  has  been  recommended  for  treating  syphilis  hypodermically 
by  Liebreich  (1882).  In  solution  it  causes  neither  local  irritation  nor  salivation,  accord- 
ing to  this  authority ; but  others  have  not  found  it  so  innocuous,  and,  indeed,  object  to 
it  on  account  of  the  inflammation  it  excites  ( Therap . Gaz.,  ix.  557).  It  has  been  used 
in  a solution  of  1 : 100,  of  which  the  amount  injected  daily  varied  from  Gm.  0.5-1, 
equal  to  Gm.  0.005-0.010,  or  gr.  to  ?>  of  the  salt. 

Iodotannate  of  mercury  is  claimed  to  be  not  only  soluble,  but  also  to  have  very  little 
taste,  and  to  occasion  neither  abscess  nor  induration  when  given  hypodermically,  and  yet 
to  act  rapidly  and  powerfully  on  the  system,  occasioning,  however,  disorder  rof  the 
stomach  {Bull,  de  Therap.,  cxiv.  365). 

Oxycyanide  of  mercury  is  said  to  be  superior  to  corrosive  sublimate  as  an  antiseptic, 
and  to  be  especially  adapted  for  operations  on  the  eye. 

Salicylate  of  mercury  has  been  examined  by  Dr.  Caldwell  ( Therap . Gaz.,x ii.  225), 
who  obtained  the  following  among  other  results  : Three  grains  daily,  for  a week  or  two 
at  least,  usually  will  not  affect  the  gastro-intestinal  tract,  though  in  one  case  f of  a grain 
three  times  daily  produced  salivation.  It  tends  to  arrest  putrefaction  in  wounds  and 
ulcers,  besides  acting  as  a mild  stimulant ; 2WU-  prevents  putrefaction  nearly  as  com- 
pletely as  the  bichloride,  while  does  not  disturb  digestion  nearly  as  much  as  the 

bichloride.  It  irritates  very  slightly  the  gastro-intestinal  mucous  membrane.  (Compare 
Muller,  Therap.  Monatsh .,  iii.  577.)  It  has  been  applied  by  Plumert  ( Centralbl . f 
Therap.,  vii.  47,  693;  Therap.  Monatsh .,  iii.  287  ; iv.  513)  in  a solution  of  1-3  : 1000 
in  the  treatment  of  gonorrhoea,  but  without  shortening  the  attack;  also  in  powder  to 
syphilitic  ulcers ; and  has  been  administered  by  intramuscular  injection  in  doses  of  Gm. 
0.01  (gr.  Y),  repeated  daily.  It  occasioned  neither  persistent  swelling,  nor  inflammation, 
nor  abscess,  and,  very  rarely,  stomatitis.  The  injections  were  given  daily,  and  on  an 
average  about  thirty  in  each  case  during  the  treatment.  It  was  also  administered  inter- 
nally in  pills,  each  containing  Gm.  0.025  (gr.  -|),  of  which  from  two  to  four  are  given 
daily.  No  gastro-intestinal  disorder  was  produced,  and  once  only  a slight  stomatitis. 
Similar  results  were  obtained  by  Aranjo  {Med.  News , liv.  297)  in  syphilis,  and  by  Schwim- 
mer  in  gonorrhoea  (ibid.,  p.  603).  Hahn  confirmed  previous  results.  He  made  use  of 
Neisser’s  mixture,  containing  1 part  of  the  salicylate  in  10  parts  of  liquid  paraffin,  for 
deep  muscular  injections.  About  Gm.  0.06  (1  grain)  of  the  salt  was  injected  every 
three  days  (Therap.,  Monatshefte,  iii.  480).  Confirmatory  reports  have  been  made  by 
Epstein,  Judassohn,  Zeising,  Neumann,  and  Schreus  (Therap.  Gaz.,  xiii.  391),  by 
Tchistiakoff  (Bidl  de  Therap.,  cxvi.  43)  and  Vacher  (Amer.  Jour.  Phar.,  lxiii.  129). 

Succinamide  of  mercury  has  been  proposed  by  Yollert  as  being  a suitable  preparation 
for  hypodermic  and  intramuscular  injection.  Its  solution  is  clear,  and  does  not  become 


8-46 


HYDRARGYRUM  AMMONIATUM. 


clouded  nor  precipitate  on  standing,  nor  does  it  coagulate  albumen  nor  precipitate  it  from 
its  solutions.  It  is  said  to  rarely  give  rise  to  abscess.  According  to  Wolff,  the  injections 
of  a 2 per  cent,  solution  should  be  made  subcutaneously  and  obliquely  in  the  buttock. 
Each  injection,  or  Pravaz  syringe-ful  contains  dm.  0.01  (gr.  1)  of  mercury.  The  abdo- 
men has  been  suggested  as  preferable  to  the  back  or  the  thighs  for  this  operation  (Bull, 
de  Therap .,  cxvi.  380).  According  to  Julien,  the  treatment  by  this  salt  is  well  borne, 
but  nothing  denotes  its  superiority  to  other  mercurials. 

Tannate  of  the  protoxide  of  mercury,  was  proposed  by  Lustgarten  as  a substitute 
for  other  mercurials  in  the  treatment  of  syphilis,  etc.  In  the  dose  of  from  Gin.  0.20-0.30 
(3  to  5 gr.)  a day  it  appears  as  mercury  in  the  urine  after  the  lapse  of  twenty-four  hours. 
It  does  not  salivate  or  disturb  the  stomach  or  bowels.  In  ten  cases  of  various  forms  of 
constitutional  syphilis  its  effects  were  quite  as  favorable  as  those  of  mercurial  ointment 
( Centralblatt  f.  Ther .,  ii.  93).  These  statements  have  been  confirmed  by  Doming 
( Therap . Gaz.,  ix.  607),  and  in  England  by  Parsons,  who  used  the  medicine  in  treating 
chancres  as  well  as  syphilitic  eruptions  ( Times  and  Gaz .,  Dec.  1885,  p.  869).  The  dose 
given  by  the  latter  varied  from  1£  to  2 grains  three  times  a day. 

HYDRARGYRUM  AMMONIATUM,  U.  S.,  Br.—  Ammoniated  Mer- 
cury. 

Hydrargyrum  prsecipitatum  album , P.  G.  ; Hydrargyrum  amidato-bichloratum  (ammo- 
n ia to-muriaticum') , Hydrargyri  ammonio-chloridum , Mercurius  prsecipitatus  albus. — White 
precipitate , Mer  cur -ammonium  chloride , E.  ; C hloramidure  de  mercure , Oxychlorure  ammo- 
niacal  de  mercure , Lait  mercuriel , Mercure  precipite  blanc , Fr. ; Weisser  Quecksilberprdcipitat, 
Quecksilber-  Chloridamidid , G. 

Formula  NH.fflgCl.  Molecular  weight,  251.18. 

Preparation. — Corrosive  Mercuric  Chloride  100  Gm.  ; Ammonia-water,  Distilled 
Water,  each  a sufficient  quantity.  Dissolve  the  corrosive  mercuric  chloride  in  2000  Cc. 
of  warm  distilled  water  ; filter  the  solution,  and  allow  it  to  cool.  Pour  the  filtrate  grad- 
ually, and  constantly  stirring,  into  150  Cc.  of  ammonia-water,  taking  care  that  the  latter 
shall  remain  in  slight  excess.  Collect  the  precipitate  upon  a filter,  and  when  the  liquid 
has  drained  from  it  as  much  as  possible  wash  it  twice  with  a mixture  of  400  Cc.  of  dis- 
tilled water  and  20  Cc.  of  ammonia-water.  Finally,  dry  the  precipitate  between  sheets 
of  bibulous  paper  in  a dark  place,  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  30°  C.  (86°  F.) — U.  S. 

The  process  of  the  German  Pharmacopoeia  is  in  all  respects  identical  with  the  fore- 
going, except  that  the  washing  of  the  precipitate  is  accomplished  with  distilled  water 
instead  of  diluted  ammonia.  The  process  of  the  British  Pharmacopoeia  is  like  the  last, 
but  a somewhat  smaller  quantity  of  ammonia  is  directed,  and  the  precipitate  is  dried  at  a 
temperature  not  exceeding  100°  C.  (212°  F.).  The  French  Codex  no  longer  recognizes 
this  preparation  ; it  should,  however,  be  remembered  that  the  precipite  blanc  of  French 
pharmacy  is  calomel  prepared  by  precipitation  (see  page  826). 

In  following  the  above  processes  one-half  of  the  ammonium  has  2 atoms  of  the  univa- 
lent hydrogen  replaced  by  1 atom  of  the  bivalent  mercury,  producing  the  radical  mercur- 
ammonium  (NII.,Hg),  which  is  a monad  like  ammonium,  and  combines  with  1 atom  of 
chlorine  to  form  the  white  precipitate ; the  other  half  of  the  ammonium  unites  with  the 
other  atom  of  chlorine  contained  in  the  mercuric  chloride  to  form  ammonium  chloride, 
which  remains  dissolved ; water  is  likewise  produced  by  the  reaction,  which  is  explained 
by  the  equation  HgCl2  + 2NH4OH  = NH2HgCl  -j-  NH4C1  + 2H20.  The  ammonium 
chloride  requires  to  be  washed  out,  for  which  purpose  the  Pharmacopoeia  very  properly 
uses  a very  dilute  ammonia  to  prevent  decomposition.  If  water  be  used,  it  should  be 
cold,  and  the  washing  should  not  be  continued  too  long,  to  prevent  the  precipitate  from 
acquiring  a yellowish  tint  in  consequence  of  the  formation  of  oxidi-mercur-ainmonium 
chloride,  NH2(Hg20)Cl.  The  above  formula  yields  nearly  93  Gm.  of  ammoniated 
mercury. 

Properties. — Ammoniated  mercury  is  a white,  amorphous,  inodorous  powder  or  is 
often  in  friable  masses,  permanent  in  the  air  and  having  an  earthy  afterward  metallic 
taste.  It  is  insoluble  in  ether,  alcohol,  and  ammonia-water,  but  is  slowly  decomposed  by 
cold  water,  and  yields  with  boiling  water  a lemon-yellow  basic  compound,  NH2(Hg20)Cl, 
ammonium  chloride  being  dissolved.  When  rapidly  heated  it  turns  yellow,  and  above 
360°  C.  (680°  F.)  is  decomposed  and  completely  volatilized  without  fusion,  yielding  nitro- 
gen, ammonia,  and  calomel;  when  slowly  heated  intermediate  compounds  are  first  formed. 
It  is  completely  soluble  in  a cold  solution  of  sodium  thiosulphate,  with  evolution  of 


HYDRARGYRUM  CUM  CRETA. 


847 


ammonia ; on  digesting  this  solution  for  a short  time  it  separates  red  mercuric  sulphide, 
or  vermilion,  which  on  protracted  boiling  turns  black.  Ammoniated  mercury  is  decom- 
posed by  potassa  solution  or  lime-water,  ammonia  being  evolved  and  a yellow  compound 
separated.  It  is  soluble  in  hot  solutions  of  ammonium  salts  and  in  hydrochloric  as  well 
as  in  nitric  and  acetic  acids  ; these  solutions  yield  white  precipitates  with  potassa  (ammo- 
niated mercury)  and  silver  nitrate  (silver  chloride).  When  ammoniated  mercury  is  tritu- 
rated with  iodine  the  mixture  will  after  some  time  puff  up,  from  the  spontaneous  decom- 
position of  nitrogen  iodide  or  iodamine  formed  in  it,  but  in  the  presence  of  alcohol  the 
decomposition  takes  place  suddenly  and  with  violent  explosion. 

Tests. — Ammoniated  mercury  should  dissolve  in  hydrochloric  acid  without  efferves- 
cence (absence  of  carbonate),  and  without  leaving  any  residue  (absence  of  mercurous 
salt,  calcium  sulphate,  starch,  etc.).  Its  solution  in  acetic  acid  should  not  yield  a precip- 
itate with  sulphuric  acid  (absence  of  lead),  and,  after  treating  it  with  an  excess  of  hydro- 
gen sulphide  a colorless  filtrate  should  be  obtained,  which,  on  being  acidulated  with 
hydrochloric  acid,  evaporated  to  dryness,  and  ignited,  should  not  leave  a fixed  residue 
(absence  of  zinc,  calcium,  etc.  salts). 

Fusible  white  precipitate,  which  was  formerly  considered  to  be  identical  with  the 
preceding,  until  Wohler  and  Kane  proved  its  difference,  was  prepared  by  dissolving  ammo- 
nium and  mercuric  chlorides  in  water  and  precipitating  with  sodium  carbonate.  Thus 
obtained,  it  has  the  composition  (NH3)2HgCl2,  or  perhaps  NH2Cl.NH2HgCl,  and  differs 
from  the  official  ammoniated  mercury  in  fusing,  when  heated,  to  a yellowish  liquid, 
evolving  nitrogen  and  ammonia  and  yielding  a transparent  and  an  opaque  white  subli- 
mate. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  insolubility  of  ammoniated  mercury  in  water,  and  even 
in  the  normal  acid  contents  of  the  stomach,  renders  it  a less  active  irritant  than  some 
other  mercurial  salts.  Sometimes  its  harsh  operation  seems  to  be  attributable  to  defects 
in  its  manufacture  or  to  its  exposure  to  light,  whereby  a portion  of  it  is  converted  into 
corrosive  sublimate.  Certainly  in  several  cases  it  has  occasioned  all  the  symptoms  of 
an  active  poison,  with  the  specific  effects  of  mercury,  and  a fatal  result  at  last.  This 
preparation  is  not  used  internally  as  a medicine,  but  its  ointment,  which  is  officinal,  is 
employed  in  ophthalmia  and  skin  diseases. 

HYDRARGYRUM  CUM  CRETA,  U.  S.,  Br.— Mercury  with  Chalk. 

JEtliiops  cretaceus. — Mercure  avec  la  craie , Poudre  de  mercure  crayeux , Fr. ) Quecksilber 
mit  Kreide , G. 

Preparation. — Mercury  38  Gm. ; Clarified  Honey  10  Gm.  ; Prepared  Chalk  57  Gm. ; 
Water  a sufficient  quantity,  to  make  100  Gm.  Weigh  the  mercury  and  clarified  honey 
successively  into  a strong  vial  of  the  capacity  of  100  Cc.  and  add  3 Cc.  of  water.  Cork 
the  vial,  and  shake  it  for  fifteen  to  thirty  minutes  at  a time,  until  the  aggregate  time  of 
shaking  reaches  six  hours,  or  until  the  globules  of  mercury  are  no  longer  visible  under  a 
lens  magnifying  4 diameters,  llub  the  precipitated  chalk  to  a stiff  paste,  in  a mortar, 
with  water,  and,  having  added  the  contents  of  the  vial,  washing  the  last  portions  in  with 
a little  water,  triturate  the  whole  to  a uniform  mixture.  Finally,  dry  the  mixture  between 
ample  layers  of  bibulous  paper,  at  the  ordinary  temperature,  until  it  weighs  100  Gm. 
Then  reduce  it  to  a uniform  powder,  and  keep  it  in  well-stoppered  bottles,  protected  from 
light.—  U.  S. 

Take  of  mercury,  by  weight,  1 ounce ; prepared  chalk  2 ounces,  llub  the  mercury 
and  chalk  in  a porcelain  mortar  until  metallic  globules  cease  to  be  visible  to  the  naked 
eye  and  the  mixture  acquires  a uniform  gray  color. — Br. 

When  certain  substances  are  triturated  with  metallic  mercury  they  acquire  a gray  tint, 
and  the  metallic  lustre  of  the  mercury  gradually  disappears  in  consequence  of  its  fine 
division.  (See  Hydrargyrum.)  To  effect  this  with  chalk  alone  is  a tedious  operation,  to 
shorten  which  Dr.  Stewart  (1843)  proposed  to  triturate  first  with  resin,  then  with  chalk, 
and  finally  to  remove  the  resin  by  alcohol ; Dr.  Mettauer  suggested  the  use  of  a mixture 
of  starch  and  chalk,  kept  damp  by  a little  water  during  the  trituration  ; and  W.  Hewson 
(1850)  proposed  to  shake  the  metal  with  a portion  of  the  chalk  in  a bottle  until  extin- 
guished, and  then  to  add  the  remaining  powder.  This  process  is  followed  on  a large  scale, 
a barrel  or  other  suitable  vessel  containing  the  mixture  being  turned  on  its  axis,  or  it  is 
combined  with  trituration,  a ball  being  also  introduced  into  a vessel  having  a somewhat 
eccentric  motion.  Dr.  Squibb  (1857)  constructed  an  apparatus  in  which  the  mercury  is 
shaken  with  honey  or  syrup,  and  when  completely  extinguished  mixed  with  the  chalk, 


848 


HYDRASTININJE  HYDROCIILORAS. 


most  of  the  sugar  being  afterward  washed  out  with  cold  water ; this  process  yields  a very 
pure  product,  but  the  globules  are  larger  than  in  the  products  of  the  other  processes,  and 
the  powder  cannot  be  triturated  with  pressure  without  separating  some  metallic  globules. 
This  plan  of  succussion  has  been  adopted  by  the  Pharmacopoeia ; it  is  probably  better 
adapted  for  large  manufacturers  than  the  retail  pharmacist.  W.  E.  Bibby  (1876)  sug- 
gested a method  which  enables  the  pharmacist  to  prepare  this  medicament  without  the 
expenditure  of  much  time  by  substituting  sugar  of  milk  for  about  one-fifth  of  the  chalk, 
which  greatly  facilitates  the  fine  division  of  the  metal ; this  was  the  process  adopted  by 
the  last  U.  S.  P.,  with  the  additional  improvement  to  keep  the  material  moist  with  alco- 
hol and  ether  until  the  mercury  has  been  finely  divided. 

Properties  and  Tests. — Mercury  with  chalk  is  a gray,  uniform,  non-gri tty,  inodor- 
ous, and  nearly  tasteless  powder,  from  which  the  mercury  may  be  volatilized  by  heat. 
When  treated  with  an  excess  of  diluted  acetic  acid  the  chalk  dissolves  with  effervescence, 
finely  divided  metallic  mercury  being  left  behind ; the  solution  thus  obtained  should  not 
become  more  than  slightly  opalescent  on  the  addition  of  a few  drops  of  hydrochloric  acid 
(limit  of  mercurous  oxide). — U.  S.  The  presence  of  this  oxide  is  disregarded  by  the 
British  Pharmacopoeia,  which  requires  the  preparation  to  be  partly  dissolved  by  dilute 
hydrochloric  acid  ; any  mercurous  oxide  present  would  be  converted  into  calomel  and 
remain  with  the  finely-divided,  undissolved  mercury  ; but  it  insists  on  the  total  absence 
of  mercuric  oxide,  which  is  detected  in  the  clear  solution  in  hydrochloric  acid  by  a white 
or  gray  precipitate  with  stannous  chloride  or  by  a black  one  with  hydrogen  sulphide. 
Arsenic  may  be  detected  in  this  solution  in  the  same  manner  as  in  corrosive  sublimate. 
Dr.  Squibb  (1857)  determined  in  a sample  the  presence  of  1.2  per  cent,  of  mercurous 
and  1.44  per  cent,  of  mercuric  oxide  ; Joseph  P.  Remington  (1869)  found  even  14.3  and 
25.7  per  cent,  of  the  latter  in  two  samples  taken  from  dispensing-bottles.  These  results 
fully  explain  the  violent  action  which  has  been  occasionally  observed.  The  preparation 
should  be  examined  from  time  to  time  to  ensure  its  fitness  for  medicinal  use. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  preparation  seems  to  be  only  metallic  mercury  main- 
tained in  a state  of  minute  subdivision  by  chalk.  The  proportion  of  the  latter  ingre- 
dient is  too  small  to  be  regarded  as  of  any  direct  therapeutic  value,  for  in  8 grains  of 
the  compound  there  are  3 of  mercury  and  5 of  chalk;  and  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.13- 
0.20  (2  or  3 grains),  in  which  it  is  generally  administered,  any  immediate  action  except 
that  which  belongs  to  an  unirritating  insoluble  powder  can  scarcely  be  admitted.  Mer- 
cury with  chalk  is  chiefly  used  in  the  bowel  complaints  of  children,  especially  when  the 
discharges  are  colorless  and  sour,  and  is  very  generally  believed  to  cause  a secretion  of 
bile,  and  thus  restore  the  normal  action  of  the  alimentary  canal.  Of  this  action,  as 
elsewhere  stated  (see  Hydrargyrum),  no  proof  exists.  The  chief  good  it  does  is  very 
probably  to  take  the  place  of  larger  doses  of  more  perturbative  medicines.  Dose  (Gm. 
0.15-0.50  (gr.  iij-x).  Mr.  Jonathan  Hutchinson  recommends  this  preparation  of  mer- 
cury as  the  best  in  constitutional  syphilis,  and  in  the  dose  of  one  grain  from  three  to  six 
times  in  twenty -four  hours  for  not  less  than  six  months  (British  Med.  Jour.,  Jan.  1886, 
p.  143). 

HYDRASTININ^E  HYDROCHLORAS,  77.  S.— Hydrastinine  Hydro- 
chlorate. 

The  hydrochlorate  of  an  artificial  alkaloid  derived  from  hydrastine,  a colorless  alkaloid 
obtained  from  hydrastis. 

Formula  CnHnN02.HCl.  Molecular  weight  224.97. 

Preparation. — Schmidt  and  Wilhelm  (1888)  found  that  when  they  oxidized  hydras- 
tine, the  colorless  ^alkaloid  of  hydrastis  canadensis,  with  manganese  dioxide  and  sul- 
phuric acid,  platinum  chloride,  chromic  acid,  or  potassium  permanganate  in  acid  solution 
they  obtained  opianic  acid  and  hydrastinine. 

Properties. — The  hydrochlorate  forms  light  yellow,  amorphous  granules,  or  a pale 
yellow  crystalline  powder.  It  is  odorless  and  possesses  a bitter  saline  taste  and  is 
deliquescent  in  moist  air.  At  15°  C.  (58°  F.)  it  is  soluble  in  0.3  part  of  water,  an^  ^ 
parts  of  alcohol,  and  difficultly  soluble  in  ether  or  chloroform.  When  heated  to  173°  C. 
(343.4°  F.)  the  salt  undergoes  partial  fusion  but  does  not  liquefy  ; on  ignition  it  is 
wholly  consumed.  Towards  litmus-paper  the  salt  shows  an  acid  reaction.  A dilute 
aqueous  solution  shows  a blue  fluorescence  even  in  a dilution  of  1 to  100,000.  sul- 
phuric acid  dissolves  the  salt  with  effervescence  and  is  colored  yellowish-red  thereby. 
An  aqueous  solution  is  not  precipitated  by  ammonia-water,  but  yields  a precipitate  with 


HYDRASTIS. 


849 


solution  of  silver  nitrate  which  is  insoluble  in  nitric  acid  but  dissolves  in  ammonia-water. 
“ On  adding  to  2 Cc.  of  an  aqueous  solution  of  the  salt  (1  to  100)  an  excess  of  bromine 
water,  a yellow  precipitate  is  produced,  which  dissolves  in  ammonia-water  to  a nearly 
colorless  liquid  (difference  from  hydrastine,  with  which  the  ammonia-water  produces  a 
brick-red  precipitate).” — U.  S. 

Action  and  Uses. — Hydrastinine  hydrochlorate  is  recommended  for  controling 
uterine  hemorrhages.  It  is  said  to  act  with  greater  certainty  than  ergot.  Dose  is  0.025 
Gm.  (|  gr.),  about  three  or  four  times  a day,  or  exhibited  as  hypodermic  injection  in 
doses  of  J-l  Cc.  of  a 10-per-cent,  solution. 

HYDRASTIS,  77.  Hydrastis. 

Golden  seal , Yellow-root , Yellow  puccoon , Orange-root , Indian  dye , Indian  turmeric , E. ; 
Racine  orange , Sceau  d'or,  Fr. ; Canadische  Gilbwurzel , Gr.  ; Raizamarilla  sello  de  oro , Sp. 

The  rhizome,  with  the  rootlets,  of  Hydrastis  canadensis,  Linne , s.  Warnera  canadensis, 
Miller.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 1. 

Nat.  Ord. — Ranunculaceae,  Helleborese. 

Origin. — This  perennial  is  indigenous  to  Canada  and  the  United  States  east  of  the 
Mississippi  ; it  grows  in  rich  woodlands,  and  in  the  Southern  States  is  confined  to  the 
mountainous  districts.  It  has  a low  stem,  and  at  the  summit  two  round  heart-shaped, 
palmately-lobed  leaves  and  a single  greenish-white  flower,  and  produces  a crimson  fruit 
composed  of  twelve  or  more  one-  or  two-seeded  berries. 

Description. — The  rhizome  is  2 to  5 Cm.  (1  to  2 inches)  long,  about  6 Mm.  (finch) 
thick,  oblique,  with  several  short  branches,  terminated  by  a broad  concave  scar,  some 
what  flattened,  annulate  from  the  leaf-scars,  longitudi- 
nally wrinkled,  and  below  beset  with  many  thin  fragile 
rootlets  75-125  Mm.  (3  to  5 inches)  long,  containing  a 
thin  triangular  or  quadrangular  ligneous  cord  and  a 
thick  bright-yellow  bark.  The  rhizome  is  externally 
brownish-gray  with  a yellow  hue,  hard,  and  breaks  with 
a short  waxy  fracture  of  a bright  reddish-  or  brownish- 
yellow  color  ; the  bark  is  about  one-eighth  the  thickness 
of  the  rhizome ; the  central  pith  and  medullary  rays 
are  broad,  and  the  yellowish  wood  consists  of  eight  to 
twelve  narrow  wedges,  or,  near  the  base  of  the  branches,  of  a few  linear  and  several 
larger  irregular  bundles.  Golden  seal  has  a slight  odor,  and  a bitter  taste  free  from  any 
marked  astringency. 

Constituents. — Besides  the  common  constituents,  like  starch,  sugar,  etc.,  A.  B. 
Durand  (1851)  found  in  it  a yellow  coloring  matter  and  a white  alkaloid,  hydrastine. 
The  former  was  recognized  by  Mahla  (1862)  as  berberine,  the  hydrochlorate  of  which 
has  been  used  by  eclectic  practitioners  under  the  incorrect  name  of  hydrastine.  Perrins 
(1862)  obtained  4 per  cent,  of  the  crude  hydrochlorate  (see  Berberis,  p.  336)  and  1.5 
per  cent,  of  hydrastine,  which  was  analyzed  by  Mahla  (1863).  Hydrastine , C22NH2306, 
is  contained  in  the  mother-liquor  from  the  preparation  of  berberine,  and  obtained  by 
diluting  the  liquid  with  water,  evaporating  the  alcohol,  neutralizing  carefully  with 
ammonia,  filtering  from  the  precipitated  resin,  etc.,  and  precipitating  with  ammonia  ; the 
fawn-colored  deposit  is  purified  by  animal  charcoal  and  recrystallization  from  hot  alcohol. 
It  is  in  white,  shining  quadrangular  prisms  which  fuse  at  135°  C.  (275°  F.),  are  readily 
soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  chloroform,  and  benzene,  insoluble  in  water,  colored  red  by  nitric 
acid,  brown-red  by  sulphuric  acid  and  potassium  chromate,  and  yield  with  acids  soluble 
and  very  bitter  salts.  Oxidized  in  acid  solution  hydrastine  yields  hydrastinine  and 
opianic  acid  and  in  alkaline  solution,  hemipinic  acid,  nicotinic  acid,  and  methylamine. 
From  the  investigations  of  A.  K.  Hale  (1873)  and  J.  C.  Burt  (1875)  it  appears  that  the 
hydrastine  of  former  investigators  was  not  quite  pure,  but  probably  mixed  with  a third 
alkaloid,  which  Hale  obtained,  of  a dark-yellow  color,  and  Burt  crystallized  as  sulphate 
in  colorless  needles ; warmed  with  nitric  acid,  it  turns  red,  with  sulphuric  acid  reddish- 
brown,  and  the  solution  of  its  hydrochlorate  is  colored  dark-brown  to  black  by  ferric 
chloride  ; it  is  present  in  smaller  quantities  than  hydrastine.  Lerchen  (1878),  who  pro- 
posed to  call  it  xanthopuccine , found  it  insoluble  in  ether  and  chloroform,  but  soluble  in 
alcohol  and  hot  water,  and  the  hot  alcoholic  solution,  treated  with  iodine  in  potassium 
iodide,  avoiding  an  excess  of  iodine,  to  yield  light  brown-colored  spangles.  Schmidt  and 
Wilhelm  (1888)  isolated  a third  alkaloid  which  they  called  canadine ; it  differs  from 


Fig.  152. 


Hydrastis. 


850 


HYDRASTIS. 


hydrastine  by  being  more  soluble  in  acetic  ether  and  absolute  alcohol.  From  the  former 
it  crystallizes  in  radiating  crystals,  and  from  the  latter  as  flat,  faintly  yellow,  warty  crys- 
tals. It  melts  at  120°  C.  (248°  F.).  In  the  preparation  of  the  alkaloids  Dr.  L.  Wolff 
(1881)  has  found  it  of  considerable  advantage  to  deprive  the  powdered  hydrastis  of  the 
fixed  oil  by  means  of  gasolin,  and  thus  lessen  the  trouble  of  purification. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  experiments  of  King,  Bartholow,  Slavatinski,  Fellner, 
Heinrich,  and  others  have  been  in  the  main  confirmed  by  the  elaborate  and  careful 
experiments  of  Cerna  ( Therap . Gaz.,  xv.  289),  but  none  of  them  have  furnished  the 
least  rational  explanation  of  the  usefulness  of  this  medicine  in  disease. 

Hydrastis  is  one  of  the  many  medicines  borrowed  from  the  aborigines  of  this  country. 
It  was  afterward  long  in  use  as  a domestic  remedy  and  by  irregular  practitioners  before 
it  became  officinal  in  1860.  Various  incongruous  virtues  were  ascribed  to  it  by  the 
vulgar,  such  as  being  at  once  tonic,  aperient,  diuretic,  and  antiseptic,  besides  being  of 
use  in  haemorrhoids,  jaundice,  and  chronic  diarrhoea  and  all  affections  of  the  urinary 
tract,  as  well  as  for  ophthalmia  and  cancer.  Butherford  decided  that  it  was  “ an  hepatic 
stimulant  of  considerable  power  and  a feeble  intestinal  stimulant.”  It  is  alleged  to  be 
“ one  of  the  best  remedies  for  the  gastric  catarrh  of  chronic  alcoholism,  and  probably 
the  best  substitute  for  alcoholic  stimulants  when  their  use  has  to  be  abandoned.  For 
habitual  constipation  depending  on  inaction  of  the  liver  it  is  undoubtedly  a valuable 
remedy”  (Practitioner,  xxvi.  121).  The  fluid  extract  has,  indeed,  been  employed  in 
various  affections  of  the  alimentary  canal,  but  especially  in  those  which  are  ranked  under 
dyspepsia  and  atonic  diarrhoea , and  for  which  the  vegetable  bitters,  and  especially  Co- 
lombo, are  habitually  used.  The  physiological  investigations  made  with  hydrastis 
neither  indicate  nor  explain  its  most  conspicuous  virtues.  It  has  been  applied  as  an 
infusion  or  tincture,  or  in  solutions  of  hydrastine,  to  a variety  of  local  affections.  A 
solution  of  muriate  of  hydrastine  (gr.  ij-iij  to  f^j)  applied  to  the  conjunctiva  excites 
lachrymation,  redness,  and  a moderate  degree  of  pain,  and  has  been  used,  like  other  local 
stimulants,  to  produce  a substitutive  and  salutary  irritation  (Sattler,  Med.  News , xlvi. 
119).  This  was  one  of  its  earliest  applications  (1864)  by  King,  who  also  used  it  in  the 
treatment  of  gonorrhoea  and  diseases  of  the  rectum.  Subsequently  it  was  employed  for 
fissure  of  the  nipples,  stomatitis , otorrhoea,  ozaena,  leucorrhoea,  cancerous  and  other  idcers , 
fissure  of  the  anus,  prolapse  of  the  rectum , and  ulcers  of  the  throat.  Felsenberg  found 
that  the  fluid  extract  was  a useful  application  to  the  throat  in  chronic  pharyngitis 
whether  associated  with  tonsillitis  or  not  ( Lancet , Mar.  1889,  p.  549).  It  has  been 
claimed  that  this  medicine  controls  haemoptysis  ( Ther . Gaz.,  xiii.  119),  but  the  proof  is 
wanting.  The  action  of  hydrastis  upon  the  uterus,  of  late  demonstrated  experimentally, 
was  long  ago  recognized  clinically.  In  1877,  Gordon  employed  the  tincture  in  menor- 
rhagia, uterine  haemorrhage , and  dysmenorrhoea  ( Chicago  Med.  Jour,  and  Exam.,  Aug. 
1877),  and  Dr.  Bartholow  published  his  observations  in  1884,  In  1886,  Slavatinski  (loc . 
cit .)  confirmed  the  previous  results,  and  used  the  medicine  to  bring  on  premature  labor 
in  a case  of  contracted  pelvis,  using  hypodermic  injections  of  one  grain  each  of  muriate 
of  hydrastine.  For  other  purposes  he  suggested  as  the  maximum  daily  dose  Gm.  0.3 
(5  grains)  hypodermically  and  Gm.  0.5  (8  grains)  internally.  Akuloff  reported  a case 
of  profuse  menorrhagia  due  to  chronic  uterine  congestion,  cured  by  the  fluid  extract 
given  in  the  dose  of  20  minims  three  times  a day  for  three  months  ( Bond . Med.  Record , 
Feb.  1886,  p.  71).  In  1887,  Givopiszew  found  that  it  stimulated  the  gravid  uterus  in 
the  latter  half  of  pregnancy,  but  less  energetically  than  ergot  (Bull,  de  Therap.,  cxiv 
189).  Schatz,  however  (Edinh.  Jour.,  xxxiii.  861),  maintained  that  it  neither  orig- 
inated nor  increased  uterine  contractions  (see  also  Heinricus,  Med.  News , lv.  126),  but 
that  it  acted  on  the  vascular  system  of  the  organ  so  as  to  restrain  hemorrhages  from  it 
due  to  various  causes,  but  especially  those  which  are  independent  of  material  disease  of 
the  uterus  (compare  Bataud,  Med.  News , lviii.  362.)  Wilcox  also  (Med.  Record,  xxxi. 
712)  formed  a similar  judgment,  adding,  however,  to  the  cases  of  hemorrhage  controlled 
by  the  medicine  those  of  fungous  uterine  growths  producing  hemorrhage,  which  the 
curette  failed  to  control.  The  experience  of  Dr.  A.  Beeves  Jackson,  moreover,  was  not 
as  satisfactory  as  that  of  some  among  the  promoters  of  the  medicine.  He  found  it  to 
act  best  where  ergot  had  failed  (Med.  News , liv.  375).  Yet  the  general  result  that 
hydrastine  is  a uterine  stimulant  of  considerable  value  appears  to  be  established  by  the 
evidence  here  given,  to  which  might  be  added  the  testimony  of  Fuchs  (Therap.  Gaz.. 
xi.  863);  Oliver  (ibid.,  xii.  388);  Butherford  (ibid.,  p.  647);  Akuloff  (Philada.  Med. 
Times,  xvi.  478)  ; Mendes  and  others  (Repert.  de  Pharm.,  1887,  p.  93)  ; Jordan  ( Lancet , 
Oct.  1889,  p.  811)  ; Falk  (Ther.  Gaz.,  xiv.  86)  and  Marfori  (ibid.,  p.  483);  Czempin 


BY  DR 0 CO TYLE.—H YOSCINjB  HYDROBROMAS. 


851 


(. Amer . Jour.  Med.  Sci.,  Feb.  1892,  p.  322);  Faber  ( University  Med.  Mag.,  iv.  840); 
Emmanuel  ( Ther . Gaz .,  xvi.  188);  Gottschalk  (ibid.,  p.  699).  A decoction  of  hydras- 
tis,  made  by  boiling  Gm.  32  (^j)  of  the  bruised  rhizome  in  Gm.  500  (Oj)  of  water  for 
fifteen  minutes,  may  be  given  in  doses  of  1 or  2 fluidoupces  several  times  a day.  Of  the 
fluid  extract  the  dose  is  about  Gm.  4 (f3j)  several  times  a day,  and  of  the  tincture  about 
the  same.  The  dose  of  hydrastine  (internally)  is  Gm.  0.13-0.40  (gr.  ij-vj ),  and  hypo- 
dermically Gm.  0.01-0.03  (gr.  i-),  and  of  hydrochlorate  of  hydrastine,  Gm.  0.008-0.016 
(gr.  £).  Falk  recommends  the  hypodermic  use  of  hydrastinine  muriate,  Gm.  0.05 
(gr.  J)  to  Gm.  0.1  (gr.  1-J-),  or  Hydrastinine  muriate,  Gm.  1 (15  gr.),  Distilled  water 
Gm.  x (f^iiss).  S.  One-half  to  one  syringeful  for  an  injection. 

HYDROCOT YLE,  F.  Cod. — Water-Pennywort. 

Indian  pennywort,  E. ; Bcvilacqua,  Fr. ; Wassernabel,  G. ; Hidrocotila,  Sp. 

Hydrocotyle  asiatica , Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 117. 

Nat.  Ord. — Umbelliferae,  Orthospermae. 

Description. — A low,  creeping  perennial  which  is  indigenous  to  the  tropical  and 
subtropical  regions  of  Asia,  Africa,  and  America.  The  leaves  are  smooth,  situated^  in 
tufts  on  the  nodes  of  the  stem,  have  petioles  with  a sheathing  base,  are  roundish-reniform 
in  outline  with  a somewhat  crenate  margin,  about  25  Mm.  (1  inch)  broad,  rather  thick, 
radiately  veined,  and  dark-green.  The  pink-colored  flowers  are  in  small  umbellate  clusters 
of  about  three,  and  produce  small,  laterally  flattened,  suborbicular  fruits  without  oil-tubes. 
The  plant  is  inodorous,  but  in  bruising  the  fresh  leaves  a peculiar  odor  is  developed ; the 
taste  is  bitterish  and  pungent. 

Constituents.— Lepine  (1855)  isolated  vellarin,  which  he  regarded  as  the  active 
principle.  It  is  an  oily  liquid  having  a bitter  taste,  a strong,  peculiar  odor,  becoming 
viscous  on  exposure,  insoluble  in  potassa  solution,  and  soluble  in  ammonia,  diluted 
alcohol,  and  ether.  He  obtained  from  the  dried  leaves  13  per  cent,  of  ash. 

Allied  Plants. — Most  other  species  of  this  genus  appear  to  possess  somewhat  similar  sensible 
properties.  The  North  American  species,  H.  ranunculoides,  Linn6,  and  H.  americana,  Linn6 , 
have  likewise  reniform  leaves,  those  of  the  former  being  three-  to  seven-cleft ; those  of  the  latter, 
thin,  crenate-lobed,  the  lobes  of  both  being  crenate. 

Peltate  leaves,  with  doubly  crenate  margins,  are  met  with  in  the  European  H.  vulgaris,  Linnt, 
which  has  five-flowered  umbellate  clusters,  and  in  the  American  H.  umbellata,  Linn 6 which  has 
the  umbellate  clusters  about  twenty-flowered,  and  in  Mexico  is  called  ombligo  de  Venus. 

Action  and  Uses. — About  1852  this  medicine,  which  had  long  been  employed  in 
India  in  the  treatment  of  febrile  diseases  and  as  a diuretic,  was  incorrectly  announced  by 
a French  physician  in  the  Mauritius  to  have  cured  a case  of  leprosy.  It,  appears,  how- 
ever, to  stimulate  the  skin,  occasioning  severe  itching,  and  in  large  doses  producing 
vertigo,  headache,  and  stupor,  as  well  as  bloody  stools.  It  has  been  said  to  be  an  efficient 
remedy  in  scaly  and  pruriginous  diseases  of  the  skin , including  those  of  a syphilitic  origin, 
in  chronic  eczema , lichen , prurigo , in  scrofulous  and  other  ulcers,  and  in  chronic  rheumatism. 
The  powdered  root  has  been  prescribed  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.20  (3  grains)  several  times  a 
day,  and  an  alcoholic  extract  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.03  Q-  grain). 

HYOSCIN-ffi  HYDROBROMAS,  V.  S.— Hyoscine  Hydrobromate. 

Ilyoscinum  hydrobromicum. — Bromure  d' hyoscine,  Fr. ; Hyoscinbromid,  G. 

Formula  017H21N04.HBr  + 3H20.  Molecular  weight  436.98. 

The  hydrobromate  of  an  alkaloid  obtained  from  hyoscyamus. 

Preparation. — Ladenburg(1880)  found  that  hyoscyamus  contained,  besides  hyoscy- 
amine,  another  alkaloid,  hyoscine,  which  he  isolated  from  the  mother-liquors  of  the  former. 
It  is  separated  by  converting  it  into  the  gold  double  salt,  as  this  is  less  soluble  than  the 
corresponding  salt  of  hyoscyamine.  This  double  salt  differs  furthermore  from  the  other 
in  that  it  has  a duller  lustre,  forms  better  crystals,  and  has  a higher  melting-point. 

Properties. — Hyoscine  forms  a thick  syrupy  liquid  which,  when  heated  with  solu- 
tion of  barium  hydroxide,  is  decomposed  into  tropic  acid  and  pseud otr opine.  The  Phar- 
macopoeia characterizes  the  hydrobromate  as  follows  : It  forms  “ colorless,  transparent, 
rhombic  crystals,  having  an  acrid,  slightly  bitter  taste,  and  permanent  in  the  air.  Solu- 
ble, at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  in  1.9  parts  of  water,  and  in  13  parts  of  alcohol;  very  little 
soluble  in  ether  or  chloroform.  When  heated  to  100°  C.  (212°  F.),  the  salt  loses  its 
water  of  crystallization,  fusing  to  a thick,  syrupy  mass,  which  becomes  quite  fluid  at 


852 


HYOSCYAMINE  hydrobromas.—hyoscya mine  sulphas. 


160°  C.  (320°  F.).  When  ignited  it  is  consumed  without  leaving  a residue.  The  salt 
is  neutral  to  litmus-paper.  Addition  of  ammonia-water  to  the  aqueous  solution  (1  in  60) 
of  the  salt  produces  no  change,  but  sodium  or  potassium  hydroxide  test-solution  causes  a 
white  turbidity.  If  5 drops  of  fuming  nitric  acid  be  added  to  0.01  Gm.  of  the  salt,  in 
a small  porcelain  capsule,  and  evaporated  to  dryness  on  a water-bath,  a scarcely  tinted 
residue  will  be  left  which,  when  treated,  after  cooling,  with  a few  drops  of  an  alcoholic 
solution  of  potassium  hydroxide,  will  assume  a violet  color.  Addition  of  silver  nitrate  test- 
solution  to  the  aqueous  solution  produces  a yellowish-white  precipitate  which  is  insoluble 
in  nitric  acid,  but,  when  filtered  off  and  washed,  soluble  in  ammonia-water  diluted  with 
its  own  volume  of  water. — U.  S. 

Uses. — “ It  has  been  used  in  asthma,  enteralgia,  trigeminal  neuralgia,  colliquative 
sweats,  insomnia,  motor  disorders  of  the  insane,  paralysis  agitans,  spasmodic  torticollis, 
and  hypochondriacal  neurasthenia”  (Erb).  Dose,  internally,  0.0005-0.0075  (gr.  y^o~ tV)* 

HY OSCY  AMINE  HYDROBROMAS,  U.  S.— Hyoscyamine  Hydro- 

BROMATE. 

Hyoscyaminum  hydro b romicu m . — Bromure  dC  hyoscyamine,  Fr. ; Hyoscyaminhromid , G. 

Formula  C17H23N03HBr.  Molecular  weight  369.14. 

The  hydrobromate  of  an  alkaloid  obtained  from  hyoscyamus. 

Preparation. — It  is  equal  to  that  of  the  sulphate  given  below,  using  hydrobromic 
acid  in  place  of  sulphuric  acid. 

Properties  and  Tests. — The  requirements  of  the  present  Pharmacopoeia  are  quite 
as  stringent  as  with  the  sulphate.  It  is  described  as  “ a yellowish-white,  amorphous, 
resin-like  mass  or  prismatic  crystals,  having,  particularly  when  damp,  a tobacco-like  odor 
and  an  acrid,  nauseous,  and  bitter  taste  ; deliquescent  on  exposure  to  air.  Soluble,  at  15° 
C.  (59°  F.),  in  about  0.3  parts  of  water,  2 parts  of  alcohol,  3000  parts  of  ether,  or  250 
parts  of  chloroform.  At  78°  C.  (172.4°  F.)  the  salt  melts,  forming  a nearly  colorless 
liquid.  When  ignited  it  is  consumed  without  leaving  a residue.  The  salt  is  neutral  to 
litmus-paper.  An  aqueous  solution  of  the  salt  is  not  precipitated  by  platinic  chloride 
test-solution  (difference  from  most  other  alkaloids).  With  gold  chloride  test-solution  it 
yields  a precipitate  which,  when  recrystallized  from  a small  quantity  of  boiling  water 
acidulated  with  hydrochloric  acid,  is  deposited,  on  cooling,  in  minute,  lustrous,  golden- 
yellow  scales  (difference  from  atropine).  The  aqueous  solution  of  the  salt  yields,  with 
silver  nitrate  test-solution,  a yellowish-white  precipitate  which  is  insoluble  in  nitric  acid, 
but,  when  filtered  off  and  washed,  soluble  in  ammonia-water  diluted  with  its  own  volume 
of  water.” — U.  S. 

Uses. — This  compound  appears  to  have  been  used  principally  in  the  treatment  of 
excited  states  of  insanity.  It  has  been  regarded  as  less  apt  than  hyoscine  to  produce 
mental  excitement,  as  well  as  other  accidents  chargeable  to  the  latter.  The  dose  has  been 
stated  at  Gm.  0.0005  (y^  grain)  and  should  never  exceed  twice  that  quantity. 

HYOSCYAMINE  SULPHAS,  V.  Hyoscyamine  Sulphate. 

Hyoscyaminum  sulfuricum. — Sulfate  d’ hyoscyamine,  Fr.  ; Hyoscyaminsulfat,  G. 

Formula  (C17H23N03)2.II2S04.  Molecular  weight  674.58. 

The  neutral  sulphate  of  an  alkaloid  prepared  from  hyoscyamus. 

Preparation.— Hyoscyamine  is  dissolved  in  alcohol,  and  the  solution  carefully  neu- 
tralized with  diluted  sulphuric  acid  and  evaporated  at  a low  temperature ; or  the  solution  of 
the  alkaloid  in  diluted  sulphuric  acid  is  concentrated  under  a bell-glass  over  sulphuric  acid. 

Properties  and  Tests. — Hyoscyamine  sulphate  is  described  by  E.  Rennard  (1868) 
as  forming  bundles  of  microscopic  crystals ; by  Thorey  (1869)  as  crystallizing  in  long 
satiny  prisms,  united  in  bundles  or  sheaf-like  groups  ; and  by  Hohn  and  Reichardt  (1871) 
as  radiating  groups  of  white  glossy  needles.  But,  according  to  Ladenburg  ( Annalen , vol. 
ccvi.),  the  salts  of  hyoscyamine  are  uncrystallizable,  while  those  of  hyoscine,  or  amor- 
phous hyoscine,  are  crystallizable ; most  of  the  salts  of  both  alkaloids  are  colorless  or 
white  if  pure,  but  as  ordinarily  obtained  are  usually  more  or  less  colored  (see  Hyoscy- 
amus) ; and  no  method  is  known  for  separating  the  two  alkaloids  except  by  the  recrys- 
tallization of  their  gold  double  salts.  The  pharmacopoeial  description  of  hyoscyamine 
sulphate  (1880)  admitted  a mixture  with  hyoscine  sulphate  more  or  less  contaminated 
with  coloring  matter ; but  in  the  present  revision  the  requirements  are  more  stringent, 
it  being  described  as  “ white  indistinct  crystals,  or  a white  powder,  without  odor,  having 
a bitter,  acrid  taste,  and  deliquescent  in  damp  air.  Soluble,  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  in  0.5 


HYOSCYAMUS. 


853 


parts  of  water,  and  in  2.5  parts  of  alcohol.  Very  slightly  soluble  in  ether  or  chloroform. 

At  140°  to  160°  C.  (284°  to  320°  F.)  the  salt  melts,  and  upon  ignition  it  is  consumed 
without  leaving  a residue.  The  salt  is  neutral  to  litmus-paper.  An  aqueous  solution  of 
the  salt  is  not  precipitated  by  platinic  chloride  test-solution  (difference  from  most  other 
alkaloids).  With  gold  chloride  test-solution  it  gives  a precipitate  which,  when  recrystal- 
lized from  a small  quantity  of  boiling  water  acidulated  with  hydrochloric  acid,  is  deposited, 
on  cooling,  in  minute,  lustrous,  golden-yellow  scales  (difference  from  atropine).  The 
aqueous  solution  of  the  salt  yields,  with  barium  chloride  test-solution,  a white  precipitate 
insoluble  in  hydrochloric  acid.” — U.  S. 

Action  and  Uses. — These  are  detailed  in  the  following  article  on  Hyoscyamus.  # 

The  dose  of  the  sulphate  is  about  the  same  as  that  of  the  alkaloid,  hyoscyamine,  Gm. 

0.001  {fa  grain)  ; but  in  urgent  cases  Gm.  0.016-0.06  (i  grain,  and  even  a grain)  has 
been  given  by  the  mouth,  and  Gm.  0.001  {fa  grain)  hypodermically.  The  Brit.  Pharm. 

Extra  states  the  dose  as  to  fa  grain  increased,  but  that  of  hyoscine  hydrobromate 
3 o o i l~o  &r- 


HYOSCYAMUS,  77.  & -Hyoscyamus. 

Hyoscyami  folia , Br. ; Herba  hyoscyami , P.  G. ; Henbane , E.  ; Jusquiame  noir , Fr. 
Cod. ; Bilsenkraut,  G. ; Beleno  negro , Sp. 


Fig.  153. 


The  leaves  (and  seeds)  of  Hyoscyamus  niger,  Linne , collected  from  plants*  of  the 
second  year’s  growth.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 194. 

Nat.  Ord. — Solan aceae. 

Origin. — The  typical  form  of  henbane  is  biennial,  grows  in  sandy  soil  and  waste 
places  throughout  the  greater  portion  of  Europe  and  eastward  and  southward  to  Siberia, 
Northern  India,  and  Egypt,  and  has  been  naturalized  in  North  America  from  the  New 
England  States  to  Michigan.  It  is  60-90  Cm.  (2  to  3 feet)  high,  covered  with  long, 
jointed,  glandular  hairs,  and  has  the  numerous  nearly  sessile  flowers  in  a long,  leafy, 
one-sided  spike-like  raceme.  The  funnel-shaped  five-lobed  corolla  is  about  3 Cm.  (1? 
inches)  long  and  wide,  pale  yellow,  with  purple  veins  and  a similar  colored  base.  The 
capsule  (pyxis)  is  enclosed  in  the  bell-shaped  calyx,  about  12  Mm.  (f  inch)  long,  dehiscent 
near  the  top  by  a cap,  two-celied,  and  contains  numerous  seeds.  An  annual  variety, 
H.  agrestis.  Kitiabel , is  not  over  30  Cm.  (1  foot)  high,  less  villous,  and  has  smaller  leaves 
and  fewer  flowers;  if  the  latter  are  veinless,  the  plant  is  H.  pallidus,  Willdenow. 

H.  albus,  Linne , and  H.  aureus,  Linne , of  Southern  Europe,  are  occasionally  employed 
there,  but  are  less  active.  H.  physaloides,  Linne , is  used  in  Siberia. 

Description. — Taken  from  different  parts  of  the  stem,  the  leaves  vary  from  5-25  Cm. 
(2  to  10  inches)  in  length  and  2-10  Cm.  (1 
to  4 inches)  in  width,  the  lower  leaves  being 
stalked,  the  upper  sessile  and  amplexicaul. 

They  are  ovate  to  ovate-oblong  in  shape, 
on  each  side  with  one  (upper  leaves)  to  five 
coarse,  sinuate  teeth  or  lobes,  which  are 
rather  acute  and  oblong  or  triangular.  In 
the  dry  state  they  are  of  a grayish-green 
color,  glandular-hairy  above,  more  densely 
so  on  the  lower  surface  and  upon  the  promi- 
nent broad  midrib.  Some  of  the  character- 
istic flowers  or  capsules,  or  both,  may  usually 
be  found  with  the  drug,  the  heavy  narcotic 
odor  of  which  is  diminished  by  drying,  but 
becomes  more  prominent  again  when  the 
leaves  are  moist.  The  taste  is  bitter  and 
somewhat  acrid.  Being  very  hygroscopic, 
the  leaves  should  be  kept  in  a dry  place. 

The  German  and  British  Pharmacopoeias  ad- 
mit the  leaves  and  flowering-tops. 

Hyoscyami  semen,  U.  S.  1870. — Hyos- 
cyamus-seed,  Henbane-seed,  E.;  Semences  de 
jusquiame  noir,  Fr. ; Bilsensamen,  G. — The 
seeds  are  no  longer  recognized  by  the  phar- 
macopoeias, but  are  employed  for  preparing 


Hyoscyamus  niger,  Linne. 


854 


HYOSCYAMUS. 


Fig.  154. 


Hyoscyamus-seed  and  lon- 
gitudinal section,  magni- 
fied 7 diameters. 


the  alkaloid.  They  are  roundish-reniform,  flattened  ; have  a gray-brown,  finely  and 
densely  rough-pitted  testa,  and  contain  a whitish  oily  albumen  which  encloses  a curved 
embryo  of  the  shape  of  the  figure  9.  The  hilum  is  in  the  con- 
cave side  of  the  seed.  The  seeds  are  without  odor  and  have  an 
oily,  bitter,  and  acrid  taste. 

Constituents. — Brandes  (1820)  obtained  from  the  seeds  25 
per  cent,  of  a bland,  limpid,  and  colorless  oil,  of  which  absolute 
alcohol  dissolves  about  20  parts.  Their  most  important  con- 
stituent, like  that  of  the  leaves,  is  the  alkaloid  hyoscyamine , 
observed  by  Brandes,  and  again  obtained  by  Geiger  and  Hesse 
(1833)  and  by  Kemper  (1866).  Completer  investigations  were 
made  by  Holm  (1870  and  1871),  and  the  composition  of  the  alkaloid,  its  identity  with 
duboisine,  and  its  isomerism  with  atropine  were  determined  by  Ladenburg  (1880).  Thi- 
bault  (1875)  received  it  in  silky  crystals  from  the  chloroformic  solution.  Thorey 
obtains  the  alkaloid  at  once  pure  by  exhausting  the  powdered  seeds  deprived  of  oil  with 
alcohol  acidulated  with  hydrochloric  acid.  The  dried  seeds  yield  from  0.08  to  0.16  per 
cent.,  and  the  leaves  0.042  to  0.224  per  cent. 

Pure  hyoscyamine,  Ci7H23N03,  crystallizes  in  colorless  silky  needles  or  is  left  as  a white 
gelatinous  mass  ; it  is  permanent  in  the  air,  melts  at  108.5°  C.  (227.3°  F.),  is  levogyre,  and 
dissolves  sparingly  in  cold  water,  but  freely  in  alcohol,  ether,  and  chloroform.  The  gold 
double  salt  forms  lustrous  golden-yellow  scales  which  do  not  melt  under  boiling  water, 
and  in  the  dry  state  fuse  at  160°  C.  (320°  F.)  (difference  from  atropine).  Boiled  with 
baryta-water,  as  was  proven  by  Ladenburg,  it  yields  tropine  and  tropic  acid  (see  page  306). 

Commercial  hyoscyamine  frequently  contains  a second  alkaloid,  which  Ladenburg 
(1880)  named  hyoscine , and  for  which  Buchheim  (1876)  proposed  the  name  sikeranine. 
It  is  isomeric  with  hyoscyamine,  is  semi-liquid  and  uncrystallizable,  but  its  double  salt 
with  chloride  of  gold  is  less  lustrous,  less  freely  soluble,  and  melts  at  198°  C.  (388.4° 
F.)  ; heated  with  baryta-water,  the  alkaloid  yields  tropic  acid  and  pseudotropine,  C8H15NO. 

Hohn  (1870)  obtained  from  the  seeds  also  a bitter  glucoside,  hyoscypicrin , C.27H52014, 
which  is  neutral,  soluble  in  alcohol  and  water,  and  precipitated  by  tannin  ; by  boiling 
with  diluted  hydrochloric  acid  it  is  decomposed  into  fermentable  sugar  and  a yellowish- 
white  resin.  In  addition  to  this,  a yellow,  amorphous,  somewhat  bitter  and  slightly  acid 
resin  containing  nitrogen  was  found,  and  on  distilling  the  mother-liquors  with  soda  some 
volatile  bases  were  obtained — among  them,  probably,  methylamine  and  ammonia. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparations. — Oleum  hyoscyami  infusum.  Mix  hyoscya- 
mus  2 parts  with  alcohol  1 part ; after  absorption  has  taken  place  digest  with  olive  oil  20 
parts  until  the  alcohol  has  evaporated  ; express  and  filter. — P.  G.  1872. — Dieterich  (1888) 

the  powder  with  ammonia  and  spirit  of  ether,  extracting  it 

Thus  prepared  it 

contains  all  the  alkaloids  present  in  the  leaves. 

Baume  tranquille  of  the  French  Codex  is  a similar  preparation,  made  from  the  fresh 
leaves  of  hyoscyamus,  belladonna,  stramonium,  black  nightshade,  tobacco,  and  poppy,  of 
each  40  parts,  and  of  120  parts  of  dry  aromatic  herbs  and  flowers,  comprising  twelve 
kinds,  with  1000  parts  of  olive  oil. 


recommended  moistening 


with  ether,  mixing;  this  tincture  with  olive  oil  and  distilling  the  ether. 


Allied  Drug. — Duboisia  myoporoides,  R.  Brown , (Nat.  Ord.  Solanaceae,)  is  a tree-like  shrub. 
Its  leaves  are  alternate,  short-stalked,  smooth,  lanceolate,  entire  and  slightly  revolute  on  the 
margin,  narrow  toward  the  apex  and  base,  inodorous  and  of  a bitter  taste.  The  prominent 
midrib  is  marked  on  the  upper  side  by  a slight  ridge.  The  flowers  are  wrhitish  or  lilac-colored, 
bell-shaped,  and  have  four  didynamous  stamens  with  reniform  anthers  ; the  fruit  is  a small 
roundish  black  berry,  resting  with  its  lower  half  in  the  five-toothed,  persistent  calyx,  and  con- 
taining in  each  of  the  two  cells  two  to  four  oblong-reniform  and  reticulate  brown  seeds.  It  was 
examined  by  A.  W.  Gerrard  and  A.  Petit  (1878),  who  isolated  the  alkaloid  duboisine  as  a yellow 
viscous  mass,  which  is  colored  red  by  sulphuric  acid,  and  on  warming  the  mixture  gives  off  an 
unpleasant  odor,  suggestive  of  butyric  acid.  Duqucsnel  subsequently  obtained  the  alkaloid  in 
crystals,  and  Ladenburg  (1880)  proved  it  to  be  identical  with  hyoscyamine,  and  that  the  com- 
mercial duboisine  sulphate,  which  is  brown,  amorphous,  and  hygroscopic,  is  identical  with 
hyoscyamine  sulphate,  but  contaminated  with  a resin-like  body.  A volatile  alkaloid  contained 
in  these  leaves  is  probably  identical  with  piturine. 

Duboisia  IIopvvoodii,  F.  von  Midler.  This  tree-like  or  shrubby  plant  is  called  pituvi  or 
pedgery ; it  is  rare  and  its  fruit  is  unknown.  The  leaves  are  short-petiolate,  smooth,  glossy,  and 
rather  thick,  narrow  and  linear  or  somewhat  lanceolate,  narrowed  at  the  base,  and  finely  acumin- 
ate, with  the  end  often  bent. 

Pituri-leaves,  examined  by  Mueller  and  Rummel,  Petit  (1879),  Liversidge  (1881),  and  others, 
were  found  to  contain  a volatile  alkaloid,  piturine , C6II8N,  which  when  pure  is  a colorless  liquid, 


HYOSCYAM  US. 


855 


but  on  exposure  to  light  or  air  turns  yellow  and  brown ; it  is  very  freely  soluble  in  water, 
alcohol,  and  ether,  has  a nicotine-like  odor,  which  changes  to  pyridine-like,  and  has  an  acrid  and 
persistent  pungent  taste  ; its  salts  are  bitter,  mostly  amorphous  or  with  difficulty  crystallizable, 
and  readily  part  with  a portion  of  the  alkaloid.  . Sulphuric  acid  and  potassium  bichromate  cause 
an  orange  color,  changing  to  brown  and  green. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  following  effects  are  produced  by  henbane  and  by  hvos- 
cyamine : In  full  medicinal  dose  the  former  occasions  headache,  pasty  mouth,  hoarse 
voice,  dry  throat,  a warm  skin,  and  a slower  and  then  an  accelerated  pulse,  while  the 
pupil  becomes  dilated  and  vision  indistinct,  and  the  limbs  give  way  under  the  body. 
The  sense  of  touch  is  blunted,  and  the  voluntary  muscles  are  apt  to  be  cramped  or  to  be 
affected  alternately  with  spasms  and  paralysis.  No  direct  narcotic  effect  is  produced  in 
the  greater  number  of  cases,  but  rather  a loquacious  subdelirium,  with  hallucinations, 
which  may  merge  into  a restless  and  dreamy  sleep.  Only  in  large  doses  is  henbane 
decidedly  hypnotic.  Its  power  to  produce  a peculiar  talkative  and  pugnacious  delirium 
was  fully  described  by  ancient  writers,  and  some  modern  observers  have  witnessed  similar 
effects  (Stille,  Therapeutics , 4th  ed.,  i.  891).  A more  recent  illustration  occurred  in 
Algeria  in  1883  (Bull,  de  Therap .,  cix.  33(3).  It  is  curious  that  in  certain  cases,  although 
the  general  sensibility  is  impaired,  severe  neuralgic  pains  may  be  felt  in  the  limbs. 
Continued  medicinal  doses  tend  to  produce  a reddish  efflorescence  upon  the  skin,  which 
is  dry  and  itching.  When  poisonous  doses,  on  the  other  hand,  have  been  taken,  the  skin 
is  sometimes  cool  and  clammy,  the  face  pale,  and  the  lips  bluish. 

According  to  Gnauck,  hyoscine  is  tenfold  stronger  than  hyoscyamine,  even  a very 
minute  dose  (gr.  ¥ J ¥)  invariably  producing  its  characteristic  effects,  and  subcutaneously 
acting  twice  as  powerfully  as  by  the  mouth.  He  thinks  that  it  tends  directly  to  slow  the 
pulse  ( Philo . Med.  News , xl.  323). 

At  one  time  hyoscyamus  was  believed  to  be  a valuable  remedy  for  epilepsy,  but 
experience  has  shown  that  the  doses  formerly  given  were  quite  inert,  and  that  even  in 
really  operative  doses  its  utility  is  limited  to  cases  of  emotional  origin.  Dr.  Lawson  in 
England  found  hyoscyamine  very  useful  in  controlling  violent  outbreaks  of  mania, 
especially  of  the  recurrent  acute  and  subacute  forms,  the  monomania  of  suspicion,  and 
the  excitement  of  senile  dementia.  He  regarded  it  as  essential  to  the  success  of  the 
treatment  that  the  medicine  should  be  given  in  a dose  not  less  than  1 grain.  If  a smaller 
dose  is  taken,  it  is  said  cerebral  excitement,  without  complete  motor  paralysis,  is  pro- 
duced, and  remains  through  the  whole  period  of  the  operation  of  the  medicine.  Mr.  Gill, 
physician  to  the  Lunatic  Hospital,  York  (Eng.),  on  the  other  hand,  recommended  a dose 
varying  from  & to  f grain  ; and  that  in  exceptional  cases  f grain,  or  even  a grain,  might 
be  given  with  safety.  In  some  forms  of  hypochondriasis  it  seems  to  have  been  useful  as 
a means  of  calming  agitation.  Prolonged  experience  has  confirmed  these  statements. 
Thus  we  learn  from  Prideaux  ( Practitioner , xxiii.  446)  that  it  produces  sleep,  sometimes 
of  considerable  duration,  in  excited  conditions  of  the  brain,  as  in  mania , delirium  tremens, 
meningitis , and  where  ordinary  hypnotics,  and  especially  opiates,  are  inadmissible.  In 
such  cases  small  doses  (y1^  gr.)  suffice,  but  in  chronic  mania  large  doses  (£  grain,  or  even 
1 grain)  are  necessary,  and  are  very  useful  in  cutting  short  exhibitions  of  temper  and 
excitement  of  a violent  and  destructive  character.  It  would  appear  to  be  particularly 
useful  in  delusional  insanity;  the  illusions  which  it  conjures  up  overlie  and  gradually 
obliterate  those  which  belong  to  the  disease.  “ In  chronic  dementia,  associated  with 
destructive  tendencies,  bad  habits,  and  sleeplessness,”  the  patients  are  said  to  be  much 
improved  by  a course  of  small  doses  of  the  drug.  Dr.  Gray,  when  superintendent  of 
the  State  Medical  Asylum  of  New  York,  confirmed  these  observations  by  his  own 
experience,  but  recommended  a combination  of  hyoscyamine  and  morphine  where  there 
is  a failure  of  cerebral  energy ; and,  on  the  other  hand,  when  violence  predominated  he 
associated  the  hypodermic  use  of  hyoscyamine  with  the  internal  exhibition  of  the 
bromides  ( Practitioner , xxvi.  299).  These  results  are  confirmed  by  those  of  Bacon 
( Practitioner , xxvii.  367),  Seguin  (Med.  Record , xvii.  354),  Gnauck  (Amer.  Jour,  of  Med. 
Sci.,  Oct.  1863,  p.  556),  by  Ewart  (Lancet,  Aug.  18,  1884,  p.  273),  Schmidt  (Therap. 
Gaz.,  ix.  808),  and  others  (ibid.,  xi.  51  ; Med.  Record , xxxiii.  608)  ; but  on  the  whole, 
and  the  greater  the  knowledge  of  its  effects  gained  by  experience,  the  less  reliance  is 
placed  upon  it  as  a remedy,  and  the  greater  the  distrust  of  it  due  to  the  serious  and  even 
fatal  accidents  attributed  to  it.  Seguin  particularly  maintains  the  favorable  action  of 
the  drug  in  delusional  insanity  with  insomnia  (Med.  Record , xix.  712).  In  puerperal 
insanity  the  action  of  the  medicine  is  most  advantageous.  In  functional  palpitation  of 
the  heart  of  a purely  nervous  nature  it  has  been  found  beneficial,  when  used  hypoder- 


856 


HYOSCYAMUS. 


mically,in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.001  ( grain).  The  same  means  relieve  cardiac  and  pul- 
monary asthma  ( Lancet , Aug.  20,  1887).  Hyoscyamine  has  been  used  in  trembling 
palsy  and  mercurial  trembling , epilepsy , chorea , locomotor  ataxia and  tetanus.  In  the 
first  it  exerts  a marked  power  in  moderating  the  tremulousness  and  in  the  second  it  is 
alleged  to  have  effected  cures.  In  the  epileptic  status  in  epileptic  mania  it  diminishes 
the  number,  frequency,  and  severity  of  the  attacks  (Prideaux),  and  it  is  one  of  the  most 
efficient  means  of  procuring  sleep  in  delirium  tremens  when  the  patient  is  at  the  same 
time  properly  fed.  The  hypodermic  dose  has  varied  from  ^ to  ^ gr.  It  seems  to 
have  cured  a number  of  cases  of  chorea , of  which  several  occurred  in  adults,  but  other 
preparations  of  hyoscyamus  have  but  little  influence  on  the  disease  ; in  locomotor  ataxia 
it  palliates  the  spasms  and  the  neuralgic  pains,  and  in  tetanus  it  moderates  the  severity  of 
the  paroxysms.  In  these  affections,  and  notably  in  chorea,  its  therapeutical  action  may 
be  explained  by  its  paralyzing  influence  upon  the  spinal  cord,  which  seems  to  be  of 
the  same  nature  as  that  produced  by  conium.  (Compare  DaCosta,  Philada.  Med.  Times , 
xvi.  312.)  The  vomiting  of  pregnancy,  a symptom  of  reflex  origin,  has  been  controlled 
by  it,  It  was  prescribed  in  a solution  containing  5 Mgs.  (gr.  TL)  of  the  alkaloid  in  125 
Gm.  (f^iv)  of  liquid,  of  which  a teaspoonful  was  given  every  hour. 

Hyoscine  has  been  used  in  the  same  diseases  as  hyoscyamine,  and  with  essentially  the 
same  results.  At  first  it  was  alleged  to  aggravate  insanity  ( Med . Record , xxviii.  309) ; 
then  its  hypnotic  power  in  repressing  excitement  in  mania  and  melancholy  was  demon- 
strated (ibid.,  xxix.  376).  The  danger  of  its  causing  oedema  of  the  lungs  where  renal 
obstruction  exists  was  early  pointed  out  (Therap.  Gaz .,  ix.  8).  Some  would  use  it  only 
when  less  powerful  hypnotics,  such  as  chloral,  the  bromides,  urethan,  and  hyoscyamine, 
had  failed  (Robert)  ; some  would  restrict  its  use  to  cases  of  excited  or  violent  insanity, 
whether  acute  or  chronic  (Salgo,  Pitcairn,  Wetherill)  ; while  others  repeat  the  original 
charge  that  it  sometimes,  instead  of  calming,  excites,  and  in  epilepsy  particularly  it  is 
apt  to  bring  on  hallucinations  and  maniacal  violence  (Konrad,  Klenche,  Malfilate,  and 
Lemoine).  On  the  whole,  hyoscine  seems  to  be  little  more  than  a substitute  for  the 
various  sedatives  and  methods  of  physical  restraint  that  have  been  long  employed  in 
treating  insanity,  and  to  have  only  an  indirect  and  incidental  influence  on  the  essential 
cause  and  nature  of  the  disease.  It  prevents  more  or  less  the  waste  of  strength  in  the 
insane,  and  lessens  the  noisy  and  destructive  habits  of  many  among  them.  (Compare 
Robert,  Centralbl.  f.  Therapie , x.  340  ; Erb,  ibid.,  vi.  23  ; Salgo,  ibid.,  p.  325  ; Pitcairn, 
British  Med.  Jour.,  July,  1888,  p.  75;  Konrad,  Centralbl.  f Therap.,  viii.  660;  Wetherill, 
Jour.  Nerv.  and  Ment.  Bis.,  1887  ; Thompson,  Lancet , Feb.  4, 1888  ; Colman  and  Taylor, 
ibid.,  Oct.  1889,  p.  736;  Lloyd,  Therap.  Gaz.,  xii.  101;  Erb,  ibid.,  p.  173;  Malfilate, 
ibid.,  p.  743 ; Dornbluth,  Med.  News , liv.  518 ; Therap.  Monatsheft.,  iii.  282,  361.) 
Hyoscine  has  been  found  useful  as  a palliative  of  the  dominant  symptoms  in  paralysis 
agitans,  spasmodic  torticollis,  tetany,  chorea , asthma,  whooping  cough,  epilepsy,  insomnia, 
mania  a potu,  delirium  tremens,  neuralgia,  and  the  morphine  habit.  It  is  said  to  moderate 
the  sweats  of  phthisis,  and  in  several  cases  of  spermatorrhoea  it  was  used  with  advantage 
by  Dr.  H.  C.  Wood  (Therap.  Gaz.,  ix.  594). 

There  is  no  doubt  that  hyoscyamus  is  anodyne,  and  apparently  by  its  operation  upon 
the  sensitive  nerves  and  ganglia,  and  not  upon  the  cerebral  organs  of  perception.  The 
crushed  leaves  of  fresh  henbane  are  popularly  applied  where  the  plant  abounds  for  the 
relief  of  local  pains,  and  internally  its  preparations  are  of  common  use  to  allay  neuralgic 
and  other  pains  that  hinder  sleep.  It  is  also  used  to  lessen  the  tendency  to  gripe  of 
certain  cathartics  given  in  a pilular  form,  for  it  has  the  advantage  of  relaxing  rather 
than  confining  the  bowels.  Like  the  other  mydriatics,  henbane  (hyoscyamine,  hyoscine) 
is  used  to  dilate  the  pupil.  Poisoning  by  ether  should  be  treated  by  evacuating  the 
stomach,  applying  warmth  to  the  extremities  and  cold  to  the  head,  and  administering 
stimulants,  particularly  coffee,  and  morphine  hypodermically  in  small  and  repeated  doses. 
In  a case  of  poisoning  by  hyoscine  recovery  followed  repeated  doses  of  chloral.  It  is 
recommended  not  to  give  hyoscyamine  or  hyoscine  to  patients  with  degenerate  arteries 
or  chronic  cardiac  disease,  or  to  very  old  people. 

The  dose  of  powdered  henbane  is  stated  at  Gm.  0.30-0.60  (gr.  v— x),  but  this  form  of 
the  medicine  is  rarely  used.  Hyoscyamine  may  be  given  in  the  dose  of  1 Mgm.  (-£-% 
gr.),  repeated  at  intervals  of  several  hours,  or,  if  not  for  a temporary  purpose,  the  dose 
should  be  prescribed  twice  a day,  and  gradually  increased  until  its  characteristic  effects 
are  observed  in  the  pupils  and  in  the  throat.  But  in  cases  of  great  functional  excite- 
ment or  disorder  from  Gm.  0.016-0.06  (1  grain  to  1 grain)  may  be  given  by  the  mouth. 
But  in  every  case  it  should  be  administered  tentatively.  Hypodermically,  its  action  is 


HYPERICUM. 


857 


relatively  far  more  powerful  than  when  it  is  given  by  the  stomach,  but  the  dose  of  ^ 
gr.  can  generally  be  administered  in  the  cases  here  referred  to. 

In  addition  to  the  formula  given  above,  the  following  is  recommended  (Gill)  : R.  Hyos- 
cyaminae  gr.  x ; spt.  vin.  rect.  5j  ; aetheris  sulph.  fi^iv.  The  two  latter  are  mixed,  and 
the  mixture  will  fully  dissolve  the  hyoscyamine ; then  water  is  added  to  make  the  whole 
20  ounces.  This  solution  contains  I grain  of  hyoscyamine  to  the  ounce. 

Hyoscine  may  be  given  subcutaneously  or  internally.  The  commencing  dose  by  the 
former  method  should  not,  in  chronic  cases  of  insanity,  exceed  Gm.  0.0005-0.001  (gr. 
T¥7) ~ rn> ) ) nor  be  continued  longer  than  a few  days  at  a time.  By  the  mouth  the  dose 
should  be  about  twice  as  great  as  that  given  hypodermically.  In  this  manner  it  acts 
more  slowly,  but  maintains  its  action  longer,  and  is  less  dangerous  (Darnbluth,  Kry, 
Rabow)  both  in  its  primary  action  and  when  given  continuously.  As  it  is  tasteless,  it 
can  be  concealed  in  various  drinks  without  being  recognized  by  patients,  especially  when 
they  revolt,  as  they  are  apt  to  do,  against  the  hypodermic  syringe.  Iodide  of  hyoscin, 
Gm.  0.01  (gr.  l),  distilled  water,  Gm.  10  (f^iiss),  S.  Gm.  0.50  (8  drops),  in  water, 
milk,  or  wine  (Rabow).  R.  Iodide  of  hyoscine,  gr.  j,  distilled  water,  11^200.  Each 
minim  contains  gr.  of  the  salt,  which  is  held  t(Bruce)  to  be  sufficient  for  the  first 
hypodermic  injection. 

The  best  antidote  for  hyoscine  is  said  to  be  chloral. 

Duboisia. — The  first  experiments  made  with  the  extract  of  duboisia  and  the  sulphate 
of  duboisine  showed  them  to  be  powerful  mydriatics,  dilating  the  pupil  more  promptly 
and  energetically  than  atropine,  and  sustaining  this  influence  for  a longer  time.  In  its 
action  on  the  eye  duboisine  differs  from  atropine  in  this,  that  it  rapidly  produces  dilata- 
tion of  the  pupil  and  almost  simultaneously  total  paralysis  of  accommodation,  while 
repeated  applications  of  atropine  are  necessary  to  paralyze  the  ciliary  muscle  completely. 

Duboisia  Hopwoodii  furnishes  pituri , whose  action  differs  from  that  of  duboisine. 
According  to  Ringer,  “ it  produces  faintness,  pallor,  giddiness,  tremor,  hurried  and  super- 
ficial breathing,  and  increased  frequency  of  the  pulse,  with  perspiration  ; in  large  doses, 
salivation,  drowsiness,  convulsive  twitching,  and  spasmodic  rigidity  of  the  extremities.  In 
small  doses,  internally,  it  contracts,  and  in  large  doses  widely  dilates,  the  pupils ; locally 
applied,  also,  it  contracts,  and  then  widely  dilates,  the  pupils.”  It  seems  to  be  a feeble 
mydriatic  ( Amer . Jour . of  Med.  Sci .,  Apr.  1879,  p.  539). 

Duboisine  may  be  used  as  a substitute  for  atropine  in  all  affections  of  the  eye  for  which 
the  latter  is  employed,  including  disorders  of  accommodation , iritis , and  diseases  of  the 
cornea.  u The  greater  rapidity  with  which  the  dilatation  of  the  pupil,  and  the  paralysis 
of  accommodation  caused  by  it,  pass  off,  renders  it  superior  to  atropine  for  use  in  deter- 
mining the  refraction  ; while,  on  the  other  hand,  its  greater  tendency  to  produce  consti- 
tutional disturbance  should  cause  it  to  be  carefully  used  ” (Norris).  According  to  Little, 
the  only  superiority  of  duboisine  over  atropine  consists  £:  in  gaining  time  in  the  study  of 
refraction  ” ( Phila . Med.  Times , x.  321).  According  to  Jones,  it  is  more  certain  than 
atropine,  and  less  liable  to  be  followed  by  irritable  conjunctiva.  It  appears  to  have  the 
same  effect  as  atropine  in  moderating  the  sweats  of  phthisis,  and  the  additional  merit  of 
reducing  instead  of  accelerating  the  pulse.  Dujardin-Beaumetz,  Desnos,  and  others  have 
used  this  preparation  in  the  treatment  of  exophthalmic  goitre , causing  a marked  diminu- 
tion of  the  cardiac  palpitation  and  vascular  throbbing.  It  does  not,  however,  lessen  the 
tumor  nor  permanently  suspend  the  symptoms  of  the  disease  ( Bull . de  Therap.,  xcix.  89 ; 
c.  59).  It  has  been  alleged  to  be  a valuable  remedy  in  the  typhoid  state  and  for  the 
somnolence  produced  by  dentition.  Such  erroneous  conceptions  of  therapeutics  cannot 
be  too  strongly  condemned. 

Duboisine  may  be  given  hypodermically  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.0005  to  0.001  (y^-g-  to 
V grain),  and  for  ophthalmological  purposes  a solution  is  used  of  Gm.  0.20-0.25  (3  or  4 
grains)  in  Gm.  32  (a  fluidounce)  of  distilled  water. 

HYPERICUM  Fr . Cod.— St.  John’s  Wort. 

Millepertuis,  Casse-diable , Fr. ; Johanniskraut , llartheu , G. ; Hyper  icon,  Sp. 

Hypericum  perforatum,  Linni. 

Nat.  Ord. — Hypericaceae. 

Description. — This  plant  grows,  in  fields  and  on  roadsides  throughout  Europe, 
Northern  Africa,  and  a considerable  portion  of  Asia,  and  has  been  extensively  naturalized 
in  North  America  and  in  other  countries.  It  has  a perennial  woody  and  branching  dark- 
brown  root  and  a somewhat  two-edged  stem  about  60  Cm.  (2  feet)  high.  The  leaves  are 


858 


HYSSOPUS. 


opposite,  sessile,  oblong  or  linear-oblong,  nearly  25  Mm.  (one  inch)  long,  obtuse,  entire  on 
the  margin,  and  pellucid-punctate.  The  flowers  are  in  open  terminal  cymes,  deep-yellow, 
nearly  25  Mm.  (one  inch)  broad,  and  are  furnished  with  numerous  stamens  clustered  in 
three  groups,  and  with  a three-celled  ovary.  The  petals,  anthers,  leaves,  and  stem  are 
more  or  less  marked  with  black  dots.  When  bruised  the  herb  has  a slight  balsamic  odor  ; 
its  taste  is  somewhat  resinous,  bitter,  and  slightly  astringent.  The  flowering-tops,  on 
drying,  lose  from  60  to  65  per  cent,  in  weight. 

Constituents. — Buchner  (1830)  found  in  the  flowers  a little  tannin,  producing  a 
dark-green  color  with  ferric  salts,  some  pectin,  and  8 per  cent,  of  a red  coloring  principle, 
hypericum  red , which  is  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  volatile  oils,  and  warm  olive  oil,  and 
dissolves  with  a green  color  in  ammonia  and  other  alkalies  ; calcium  and  lead  salts  pro- 
duce yellow  precipitates,  ferric  chloride  a yellowish-green  one.  According  to  Clamor- 
Marquart,  this  coloring  matter  is  a mixture  of  a red  and  a yellow  principle,  and  is  mainly 
contained  in  the  black  glands. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — The  fresh  flowering-tops,  digested  with  olive  oil  sufficient 
to  cover  them,  yield  a yellowish-red  liquid,  Oleum  hyperid , which  is  popularly  known  as 
red  oil.  Linseed  oil  is  sometimes  used  in  place  of  olive  oil. 

Allied  Plants. — Several  other  European  species  of  Hypericum  possess  similar  properties,  and 
some  of  our  North  American  species  may  be  equally  effective. 

Hypericum  sarothra,  Michaux  (Sarothra  gentianoides,  LinnJ,  s.  Sar.  hypericoides,  Nuttall), 
has  thin  almost  thread-like  branches,  opposite  awl-shaped  scaly  leaves,  and  minute  sessile  yellow 
flowers.  It  is  common  in  sandy  fields  in  the  United  States,  where  it  is  known  as  orange-grass 
or  pine-weed,  and  is  sometimes  used  like  the  preceding. 

Ascyrum  crux-Andre^e,  Linn6  (St.  Andrew's  cross),  is  a decumbent  North  American  herb 
with  narrow  oblong-obovate  leaves  and  solitary  flowers,  having  the  four  linear-oblong  yellow 
petals  arranged  in  the  form  of  a cross. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  aromatic  and  terebinthinate  odor  of  this  plant  when  it  is 
crushed  in  the  hand,  and  its  resinous  and  bitter  taste,  sufficiently  account  for  the  vogue 
which  it  enjoyed  in  certain  diseases  even  from  ancient  times.  The  ancients  attributed 
to  it  stimulating,  drying,  cleansing,  and  cicatrizing  powers,  and  held  it  to  be  diuretic  and 
emmenagogue  and  a specific  remedy  for  wounds,  ulcers,  and  burns.  In  the  Middle  Ages 
analogous  virtues  were  ascribed  to  it,  as  well  as  curative  powers  in  calculous  affections, 
intestinal  worms,  and  mental  disorders.  In  more  recent  times  it  was  given  for  the  relief 
of  chronic  catarrh  of  the  lungs,  bowels,  and  urinary  passages , and  was  especially  esteemed 
in  the  last.  It  was  also  used  in  hot  infusion  to  bring  on  retarded  menses.  Externally,  it 
was  applied  in  the  fresh  state,  bruised,  as  a discutient  for  recent  contusions  and  for  the 
relief  of  local  pains.  Red  oil,  above  described,  is  one  of  the  most  popular  applications 
made  to  excoriations , icounds,  and  bruises  both  in  Europe  and  in  this  country.  In  1883 
(British  Med.  Jour.,  Dec.  8)  it  was  recommended  by  Snow  as  an  application  to  bed-sores. 
An  infusion  may  be  prepared  with  Gm.  32  (an  ounce)  of  the  plant  in  a pint  of  hot 
water.  H.  Sarothra  is  said  to  be  an  aperient,  and  the  bruised  root  of  Ascyrum  Crux- 
Andrese  has  been  applied  as  a resolvent  to  enlarged  and  indurated  glands. 

HYSSOPUS. — Hyssop. 

Hysope,  Fr.  Cod. ; Isop,  Ysop,  G. ; Hissopo , Sp. 

Hyssopus  officinalis,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Labiatae,  Satureieae. 

Description. — Hyssop  is  an  herbaceous  perennial  indigenous  to  Southern  Europe, 
frequently  cultivated  and  sparingly  naturalized  in  the  United  States.  It  is  about  30 
Cm.  (1  foot)  high,  with  wand-like  simple  quadrangular  branches  and  opposite,  sessile, 
linear-lanceolate,  entire,  and  nearly  obtuse  leaves,  which  are  about  25  Mm.  (one  inch)  long, 
nearly  smooth,  and  finely  punctate  on  both  sides.  The  purplish-blue  flowers  are  in  small 
clusters,  and  have  a fifteen-ribbed  calyx,  a two-lipped  corolla  with  a rather  short  and 
notched  upper  lip,  and  four  exserted  and  divergent  stamens.  Hyssop  has  an  aromatic 
somewhat  camphoraceous  odor  and  a pungent,  aromatic,  and  bitterish  taste. 

Constituents. — Aside  from  tannin,  resin,  fat,  sugar,  mucilage,  etc.,  the  most  im- 
portant constituent  is  oil  of  hyssop,  of  which  the  fresh  herb  yields  \ to  £ per  cent.  It  is 
pale-yellow  or  greenish,  limpid,  of  about  the  specific  gravity  0.94,  and  freely  soluble  in 
alcohol  ; it  contains  oxygen,  and  commences  to  boil  at  142°  C.  (287.6°  F.),  the  boiling- 
point  rising  to  180°  C.  (356°  F.).  It  has  the  odor  and  taste  of  the  herb.  The  hyssopin 
of  Herberger  (1829)  was  found  by  Trommsdorff  to  be  impure  calcium  sulphate. 


HYSSOPUS. 


859 


Allied  Plants. — Cuxila  Mariana,  Limit,  {Dittany),  a North  American  plant,  grows  in  dry 
soil,  has  a thin,  purplish,  much-branched  stem  and  nearly  sessile,  ovate,  serrate,  smooth  leaves, 
which  are  rounded  or  subcordate  at  the  base.  The  pale-purple  flowers  are  in  small  pedunculate 
clusters  and  have  two  exserted  stamens. 

Satureja  hortexsis,  Linnt . — Summer  savory,  E. ; Sarriette,  Fr.  ; Saturei,  Bohnenkraut,  G. — 
This  South  European  annual  is  cultivated  as  a culinary  herb.  The  stem  is  much-branched, 
roughish-pubescent ; the  leaves  are  linear-lanceolate  or  oblong-linear,  entire,  acute,  and  tapering 
into  a very  short  petiole ; the  cymules  are  about  three-flowered,  with  the  corolla  pale-purplish, 
and  with  four  diverging  rather  included  stamens. 

Satureja  Montana,  Limit,  (Micromeria,  Reichenbach) . — Winter  savory,  E. — It  is  suffruticose, 
retrorsely  hairy,  and  has  hairy  whitish  or  reddish  flowers  in  small  axillary  clusters,  and  linear- 
lanceolate,  mucronate  leaves,  pellucid  punctate  and  rough  on  the  margin.  Haller  (1882)  ob- 
tained from  it  0.83  per  cent,  of  volatile  oil  having  an  orange-yellow  color,  an  odor  resembling 
that  of  origanum,  and  the  density  0.7394  at  17°  C.  • it  is  levogyre,  and  contains  two  hydrocarbons 
and  two  phenols,  one  of  the  latter  being  identical  with  carvacrol. 

Salvia  axillaris,  Sesse,  is  the  hyssop  of  Mexico. 

Pvcnanthemum  linifolium,  Pursh  ( Virginia  thyme),  has  rigid,  narrowly  linear  sessile  crowded 
leaves,  which  are  entire  and  three-nerved ; the  flowers  are  in  terminal  hemispherical  clusters, 
supported  by  imbricate,  rigidly-pointed  bracts.  It  has  been  popularly  regarded  as  useful  in 
hydrophobia,  and  has  been  employed  in  atonic  dyspepsia. 

Pycn.  lanceolatum,  Pursh , resembles  the  preceding,  but  has  lanceolate  or  lance-linear  leaves  5 
both  have  a resinous  and  bitter  taste. 

Pycn.  incanum,  Michaux , has  broader  ovate-oblong,  hoary,  pubescent  leaves  and  an  aromatic 
mint-like  taste.  It  is  known  as  mountain-mint,  wild-basil , and  in  some  places  as  horse-mint , and 
is  used  like  Monarda. 

Ch.  Mohr  (1876)  isolated  from  Pycn.  linifolium  a tannin  which  is  very  similar  to,  if  not  identical 
with  caffeo- tannic  acid  ; volatile  oil,  resin,  bitter  principle,  etc.  were  likewise  obtained. 

Thymus  vulgaris,  Linnt  (Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  205)  ; Ilerba  thymi,  P.  G. — Gar- 
den thyme,  E. ; Thym,  F.  Cod. ; Thymian,  Rbmischer  Quendel,  G. ; Tomillo,  Sp. — A small  South 
European  suffruticose  plant  which  is  often  cultivated  for  culinary  purposes.  The  leaves  are 
ovate-oblong  or  linear,  revolute  on  the  margin,  grayish-green,  glandular,  punctate  on  both  sides 
and  pubescent  beneath,  the  upper  ones  bearing  in  their  axils  small  clusters  of  whitish  or  reddish 
flowers  with  exserted  stamens. 

Thymus  serpyllum,  Linnt;  Ilerba  serpylli,  P.  G. — Wild  thyme,  E. ; Serpolet,  F.  Cod.; 
Quendel,  Feldthymian,  G. ; Serpol,  Sp. — It  is  a common  prostrate  suffruticose  plant  indigenous 
to  Europe  and  Northern  Asia  and  to  some  extent  naturalized  in  North  America.  The  leaves  are 
petiolate,  flat,  ovate  or  roundish-lanceolate,  occasionally  linear,  entire,  ciliate  near  the  base, 
glandular  on  both  sides,  otherwise  smooth.  The  purple  or  rose-colored  flowers  are  aggregated 
heads  or  dense  spikes  terminating  the  branches,  and  have  the  four  stamens  included  or  some- 
times exserted.  It  is  a variable  plant,  including  several  nominal  species,  among  them 
Thymus  citriodorus,  Schreber,  the  lemon-thyme,  which  has  an  agreeable  odor  resembling  that  of 
melissa  and  of  lemon.  Both  thymes  have  a strong  aromatic  odor  due  to  volatile  oil.  (See 
Oleum  Thymi.) 

Micromeria  Douglasii,  Bentham , s.  Mic.  barbata,  Fischer  et  Meyer.  It  is  a perennial  creep- 
ing or  trailing,  sweet-scented  herb  of  the  Pacific  coast  from  California  to  Washington  Territory, 
and  is  known  as  yerba  buena.  The  leaves  are  roundish- ovate,  thin,  sparingly  toothed  and 
short-petioled ; the  purplish  flowers  are  mostly  solitary  in  the  axils  on  long  and  filiform 
peduncles. 

Action  and  Uses. — Anciently  hyssop  seems  to  have  been  used  as  a cathartic,  for 
we  read  in  Scripture,  “ Purge  me  with  hyssop,  and  I shall  be  clean  and,  if  this  passage 
be  thought  to  apply  only  to  external  cleansing,  Pliny  says  expressly  that  “ mixed  with 
figs  it  purges,  and  with  honey  vomits.”  He  also  refers  to  its  external  use  in  phthiriasis. 
Nevertheless,  it  is  by  no  means  certain  what  plant  or  plants  were  anciently  called  hyssop. 
Down  to  a quite  recent  period  hyssop  was  used  to  improve  digestion,  particularly  in  atonic 
and  flatulent  dyspepsia,  and,  like  other  plants  which  are  so  employed  and  contain  an 
essential  oil  associated  with  a bitter  and  astringent  principle,  it  is  found  useful  in  subacute 
and  chronic  bronchitis , especially  in  old  persons,  also  in  amenorrhcea,  and  externally  as  a 
stimulant  application  to  bruises  and  in  muscular  rheumatism.  Its  infusion  was  also 
employed  as  a gargle  in  sore  throat  of  the  diphtheritic  form.  Plyssop  may  be  given  in  an 
infusion  made  with  Gm.  4 (gj)  of  the  herb  to  a pint  of  water.  The  essential  oil  was 
formerly  given  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.06—0.12  (gtt.  j-ij). 

Maryland  cunila  (dittany)  is  employed  as  a diaphoretic  in  slight  fevers  and  colds. 
Summer  savory  and  Winter  savory  have  essentially  the  same  medicinal  virtues  as  the  other 
plants  in  this  group.  They  are  used  as  vermifuges  and  for  the  itch,  and  also  for  dyspeptic 
disorders.  Ditana  digitifolia,  a native  plant  of  Brazil,  is  reputed  to  be  a galactagogue 
{Med.  Record,,  xx.  420;  Therap.  Gaz.,  x.  100;  xi.  122). 


860 


ICHTHYOCOLLA. — ICHTHYOL  UM. 


ICHTHYOCOLL A,  U.  S.—  Isinglass. 

Colla  piscium. — Fish  glue , E. ; Ichthyocolle , Colie  de  poisson , F.  Cod. ; Hansenblase , 
Fischleim , G\  ; Col  de  pescado , Sp. 

The  swimming-bladder  of  Acipenser  Huso,  Linne , and  of  other  species  of  Acipenser. 

Class  Pisces.  Ord.  Sturiones. 

Origin. — Isinglass  is  mentioned  by  the  British  Pharmacopoeia  among  the  articles 
employed  in  chemical  testing.  The  kind  preferred  is  that  known  in  commerce  as  Russian 
isinglass , which  is  obtained  from  several  sturgeons,  species  of  Acipenser,  which  inhabit  the 
Caspian  and  Black  Seas  and  their  tributary  rivers,  and  the  most  important  of  which  are 
Ac.  Huso,  Linne , or  belugo  ; Ac.  Guldenst'adtii,  Ratzeburg , or  ossefer  ; Ac.  ruthenus,  Linne , 
or  sterlet ; and  Ac.  stellatus,  Pallas , or  sewruga.  It  is  prepared  by  cutting  the  air-bag  or 
swimming-bladder  open,  washing  and  soaking  it  in  water,  and  spreading  it  upon  boards, 
the  outer  silvery  membrane  being  turned  upward  and  removed  by  rubbing.  The  bladder 
is  then  merely  dried  in  sheets,  and  constitutes  leaf  isinglass , or  several  are  put  together 
and  folded  before  they  are  completely  dry,  forming  book  isinglass , or  each  bladder  is  rolled 
up  and  folded  around  a few  pegs  in  the  form  of  a horseshoe,  heart,  or  lyre,  in  which  shape 
it  is  dried.  The  latter  is  the  staple  isinglass,  which,  according  to  its  dimensions,  is  again 
divided  into  long  and  short  staple.  The  kind  now  most  commonly  met  with  in  our  com- 
merce is  the  leaf  isinglass. 

Description. — Bussian  isinglass  is  a somewhat  horny  and  tough  membranous  tissue, 
which  is  semi-transparent,  of  a whitish  or  pale-yellowish  color,  pearly  appearance,  and 
iridescent ; it  is  best  torn  in  the  direction  of  its  fibres,  is  inodorous,  and  quite  insipid  in 
taste.  Immersed  in  water  or  diluted  alcohol,  it  swells,  becomes  opaque,  and  dissolves  at 
a somewhat  elevated  temperature,  leaving  a flocculent  residue  not  exceeding  2 per  cent. ; 
on  cooling,  its  solution  with  24  parts  of  water  congeals  to  a transparent  jelly.  On  incin 
eration,  it  leaves  0.5  per  cent,  of  ash.  Isinglass  which  is  discolored  or  less  soluble  in 
water  is  not  adapted  for  medicinal  purposes. 

Constituents. — Besides  membranous  matter  and  some  salts,  isinglass  consists  of 
that  variety  of  gelatin  known  to  chemists  as  glufin.  (See  Gelatina,  page  167.) 

Adulterations. — In  the  place  of  Bussian  isinglass  the  swimming-bladder  of  other 
fishes  is  sometimes  sold,  and  the  intestines  of  various  animals  are  said  to  be  coated  wit-li 
gelatin  and  used  for  a like  purpose.  Such  substitutions  or  adulterations  are  easily  recog- 
nized by  the  larger  amount  of  ash  (3  to  10  per  cent.)  left  on  incineration  or  by  the  larger 
proportion  of  matter  insoluble  in  hot  water.  Gelatin  immersed  in  cold  water  swells, 
retains  its  transparency,  and  becomes  soft  and  easily  disintegrated. 

Other  Varieties  of  Isinglass.— The  air-bags  of  most  large  fishes  appear  to  be  adapted  for  some 
of  the  purposes  for  which  isinglass  is  used  in  the  arts ; when  they  are  dried  without  being  split 
open  they  are  known  as  purse  or  pipe  isinglass. 

American  isinglass , according  to  C.  T.  Carney  (1857),  is  prepared  from  the  sounds  of  Badus 
merluccius,  Linne,  or  hake : they  are  cleansed,  soaked  in  water,  passed  through  rollers,  and  dried 
in  the  form  of  ribbons  or  thin  and  transparent  sheets.  C.  C.  Meyer  (1873)  found  the  former  to 
leave  30  per  cent.,  and  the  latter  only  18  per  cent.,  of  matter  insoluble  in  water;  the  fresh  blad- 
der of  a hake  weighing  15  ounces  left  1 ounce  undissolved.  Storer  states  that  the  swimming- 
bladder  of  Otolithus  regalis,  Cuvier , the  weakfsh,  likewise  furnishes  some  isinglass. 

Brazilian  isinglass  comes  from  species  of  the  genera  Pimelodus  and  Silurus,  the  entire  sounds 
being  often  dried  so  as  to  adhere  together  (lump  isinglass),  and  the  lumps  are  sometimes  split 
open  (honeycomb  isinglass).  A false  isinglass  from  Para  consisted,  according  to  Pereira  (lo5o), 
of  the  ovaries  of  a fish,  probably  Sudas  gigas.  . 

Fast  Indian  isinglass  is  produced  from  several  large  fishes,  and  is  met  with  in  the  form  ot 
purses  and  of  leaves. 

Japanese  or  Chinese  isinglass  is  a vegetable  product.  (See  Chondrus.) 

Action  and  Uses. — Isinglass  was  anciently  applied  as  a protective  to  the  skin 
when  it  was  abraded  or  affected  with  eruptions.  It  is  emollient  and  nutritive,  and  orms 
a valuable  addition  to  boiled  milk  or  to  farinacea  prepared  with  milk  in  treating  t e 
chronic  bowel  complaints  of  children.  In  court-plaster  it  is  used  for  its  adhesive  qua  lties. 


ICHTHYOLUM— Ichthyol. 

Source  and  Preparation.— The  various  compounds  at  present  on  the  market  under 
such  names  as  ammonium  ichthyol,  sodium  ichthyol,  zinc  ichthyol,  etc.,  are  all  salts  o 
bibasic  acid  known  as  ichthyolsulphonic  or  sulphoichthyolic  acid.  When  no  specihcatio 
is  made  the  simple  term  ichthyol  is  understood  to  refer  to  the  ammonium  sa  t 
source  of  this  class  of  preparations  is  a crude  oil,  obtained  by  destructive  distilla 


ILEX. 


861 


bituminous  rock  found  in  immense  quantities  near  Seefeld  in  the  Tyrol  mountains  of 
Europe  at  an  elevation  of  3000-4000  feet ; the  rock  is  filled  with  petrified  remnants  of  pre- 
historic fish  and  marine  animals — hence  the  name — ichthyol  oil  from  the  Greek  word  i/Ous 
(fish).  The  crude  oil  is  a brownish-yellow  transparent  liquid  of  0.865  specific  gravity, 
boiling  between  100°  and  225°  C.  (212°-437°  F.),  and  possessing  a peculiar  penetrating 
somewhat  aromatic  odor.  If  subjected  to  fractional  distillation  about  6 per  cent,  will 
pass  over  between  100°-120°  C.,  53  per  cent,  between  120°-160°  C.,  33  per  cent,  between 
160°-225°  C.,  and  about  6 per  cent,  between  225°-255°  C.  The  crude  oil  mixed  with  an 
excess  of  concentrated  sulphuric  acid,  becomes  heated,  reaching  a temperature  of  100° 
C.  (212°  F.),  and  forms  ichthyolsulphonic  acid  with  copious  evolution  of  sulphur  dioxide. 
After  the  reaction  has  ended  the  mixture  is  repeatedly  treated  with  concentrated  solution 
of  sodium  chloride,  whereby  sulphurous  and  sulphuric  acids  are  removed,  while  the 
newly-formed  sulphonic  acid  separates  in  form  of  a dark  extract-like  mass  which  retains 
a small  quantity  of  unchanged  oil,  and  hence  its  odor. 

Ichthyol  contains  a large  proportion  of  sulphur — about  10  per  cent — combined  in  a 
manner  not  yet  understood ; it  cannot  be  extracted  with  boiling  soda  or  potassa  solution 
nor  by  treatment  with  sodium-amalgam. 

Ammonium  ichthyolsulphonate  or  ammonium  ichthyol  is  obtained  by  saturating  the 
acid  with  ammonia,  and  occurs  as  a clear,  reddish-brown  syrupy  liquid  with  a bituminous 
odor  and  taste.  It  is  soluble  in  water  and  in  a mixture  of  equal  volumes  of  ether  and 
alcohol  (the  solution  being  faintly  acid)  ; alcohol  or  ether  alone  take  up  only  a part  of  it, 
so  also  petroleum  benzin.  Dried  on  a water-bath,  ammonium  ichthyol  loses  about  45  per 
cent,  of  its  weight.  It  is  chiefly  employed  in  form  of  an  ointment  (10  to  50  per  cent.), 
made  with  lanolin  or  petrolatum,  and  has  been  found  serviceable  in  the  treatment  of  erysip- 
elas and  rheumatism.  Internally  it  has  been  given  in  doses  of  5 to  20  minims  in  milk. 

Other  salts  of  ichthyolsulphonic  acid  such  as  sodium,  lithium,  zinc,  and  mercury  are 
prepared  by  saturating  the  acid  with  the  respective  oxides  or  carbonates.  They  all  occur 
as  brownish,  black,  tar-like  masses,  but  the  sodium  salt  is  the  only  one  of  importance, 
being  employed  when  it  is  desired  to  give  ichthyol  in  pill  form. 

Allied  Drugs. — Thiolum — Thiol. — This  compound  has  been  proposed  as  a substitute 
for  ichthyol,  and  occurs  both  in  dry  and  liquid  form.  It  is  prepared  by  heating  brown- 
colored  paraffin  or  gas  oils  of  0.890  to  0.900  spec.  grav.  with  sulphur  and  extracting  the 
sulphurated  unsaturated  hydrocarbons  with  alcohol.  Upon  removing  the  alcohol  by  dis- 
tillation a dark  brown  oily  liquid  remains  ; this  oil  when  treated  with  concentrated  sul- 
phuric acid  is  changed  into  a water-soluble  compound,  which  is  then  purified  by  ammonia 
to  remove  free  acid,  and  finally  precipitated  by  sodium  chloride  or  sulphate.  Pure  thiol 
is  a neutral  solid  body  non-hvgroscopic  and  soluble  in  water  ; it  occurs  in  powder  form 
and  also  in  aqueous  solution,  the  former  of  dark  brown  color,  and  the  latter  a dark  red- 
dish-brown syrupy  liquid,  containing  about  40  per  cent,  of  thiol. 

Tumenolum — Tumenol. — This  is  a mixture  of  sulphones  and  sulphonic  acids,  obtained 
from  purified  mineral  oils  by  the  direct  action  of  concentrated  sulphuric  acid,  without 
previous  sulphuration.  It  occurs  as  a dark -colored  acid  syrup  ; the  separated  sulphones 
(extracted  by  ether  from  a neutral  mixture  prepared  with  soda)  are  known  as  tumenol 
oil,  a dark-yellow  thick  liquid,  insoluble  in  water  but  readily  soluble  in  ether  and  ben- 
zene. Crude  tumenol  may  be  freed  from  adhering  acid  by  repeated  solution  in  water 
and  precipitation  by  sodium  chloride  ; it  is  a tough  brown  mass,  resembling  ichthyol,  and 
consists  of  a mixture  of  tumenol  sulphone  and  tumenolsulphonic  acid  ; the  latter  sub- 
stance occurs  as  a dark-colored  faintly  bitter  powder,  readily  soluble  in  water.  Like 
ichthyol  and  thiol,  tumenol  has  been  successfully  employed  in  eczema,  pruritus,  etc. 

(For  Action  and  Uses,  see  page  1209). 

ILEX.— Holly. 

Houx,  Fr. ; Stechpaline,  Christ  dorn,  G. ; Aceho , Sp. 

The  leaves  of  different  species  of  Ilex. 

Nat.  Ord. — Aquifoliaceae. 

Origin  and  Description. — Ilex  opaca,  Aiton  ( American  Holly).  It  is  indigenous 
to  the  United  States,  and  is  either  shrubby  or  a tree  9 or  12  M.  (30  or  40  feet)  high. 
The  leaves  are  petiolate,  coriaceous,  and  evergreen,  about  5 Cm.  (2  inches)  long,  oval  in 
shape,  and  with  a wavy-toothed  margin,  the  teeth  being  furnished  with  rigid  and  sharp 
spines.  They  are  without  odor  and  have  a mucilaginous,  bitterish,  and  astringent  taste. 

Ilex  aquifolium,  Linne  ( European  Holly ),  is  very  closely  related  to  the  preceding. 
The  leaves  differ  in  being  rather  ovate,  dark-green  and  glossy  on  the  upper  surface. 


862 


ILEX. 


Ilex  cassine  Linne  (known  as  yaupon , youpon , or  cassena').  It  grows  in  the  United 
States  from  Virginia  southward.  The  leaves  are  shortly  petiolate,  about  25  Mm.  (1  inch) 
long,  coriaceous,  varying  in  shape  between  lance-ovate,  ovate,  and  oblong,  crenate  on  the 
margin,  smooth,  dark-green,  and  glossy  above,  and  paler  beneath.  They  are  inodorous, 
and  have  an  astringent  and  bitterish  taste. 

The  following  two  species  are  likewise  known  as  cassena  in  the  Southern  States : 

Ilex  dahoon,  Walter , has  leaves  about  5 Cm.  (2  inches)  long,  which  are  oblong  or 
oblanceolate,  with  the  margin  revolute  or  entire  or  sharply  serrate  toward  the  apex. 

Ilex  myrtifolia.  Walter.  The  leaves  are  linear-lanceolate  or  linear-oblong,  25  Mm. 
(1  inch)  long,  entire  on  the  margin  or  furnished  with  a few  sharp  teeth. 

The  fruit  of  these  species  is  a red  drupe,  usually  containing  four  one-seeded  ribbed  or 
grooved  nutlets. 

Ilex  paraguayensis,  St.  Hilaire , is  a small  tree  indigenous  to  Brazil  and  the  Argen- 
tine Republic.  The  leaves  are  oblong  or  lanceolate,  wedge-shaped  at  the  base,  rather 
obtuse  at  the  apex,  and  with  distant  teeth  on  the  margin.  They  furnish  the  yerba  mate 
or  Paraguay  tea , also  known  as  Jesuits'  tea  and  St.  Bartholomew' s tea , which  is  exten- 
sively used  in  South  America,  the  annual  consumption  in  the  Argentine  Republic  alone 
being  estimated  at  27,000,000  pounds,  or  about  13  pounds  per  head.  It  is  prepared  as 
follows : The  small  branches  with  the  leaves  are  placed  in  the  tatacua,  a plot  of  earth 
about  6 feet  (1.8  M.)  square,  surrounded  by  fire,  where  they  undergo  their  first  roasting. 
They  are  thence  taken  to  the  barbaeda , which  is  a grating  underneath  which  burns  a fire, 
where  they  are  somewhat  torrefied  to  develope  the  aromatic  principle.  The  leaves  are 
subsequently  reduced  to  powder  in  a sort  of  mortar  formed  of  pits  dug  in  the  earth  and 
well  rammed.  More  recently,  suitable  furnaces  have  been  erected  for  drying  and  torre- 
faction,  and  mills  are  used  for  powdering.  According  to  Peckolt,  the  leaves  possess 
most  aroma  when  the  fruit  is  nearly  ripe,  and  are  collected  in  different  parts  of  South 
America  from  December  or  January  till  the  following  August  or  September. 

Constituents. — The  leaves  of  the  European  holly  were  examined  by  Lassaigne 
(1822),  Deleschamps  (1832),  Lebourdais  (1841),  Moldenhauer  (1857),  and  Bennemann 
(1858).  The  four  first-named  investigators  obtained  the  bitter  principle  as  a more  or 
less  colored  amorphous  mass ; Bennemann,  in  the  form  of  feathery  crystals  too  small  in 
quantity  for  further  investigation.  Deleschamps’  ilicin  was  not , but  Moldenhauer’s  and 
Benneman’s  was , precipitated  by  lead  subacetate  ; Lebourdais’s  ilicin  was  absorbed  from 
the  decoction  by  animal  charcoal  and  extracted  from  it  by  boiling  alcohol.  D.  P. 
Pancoast’s  (1856)  ilicin  was  obtained  by  Lebourdais’s  process  from  the  fruit  of  the 
American  holly,  and  is  described  as  being  in  minute  needles ; the  same  process  applied  to 
the  leaves  yielded  an  amorphous  green  mass. 

Moldenhauer  isolated  ilixanthin , C17H22On,  the  yellow  coloring  matter  of  the  leaves,  in 
the  form  of  straw-yellow  needles  which  are  soluble  in  alcohol  and  boiling  water,  but 
insoluble  in  ether.  Hide  acid  is  syrupy  ; its  barium  salt  is  amorphous ; the  calcium 
salt  crystallizes  in  scales. 

The  yaupon  contains  0.122  per  cent,  of  caffeine , 2.409  per  cent,  of  tannin,  4 per  cent, 
of  ash,  besides  wax,  resin,  etc.,  according  to  the  analysis  of  H.  M.  Smith  (1872). 
Caffeine  was  also  found  in  mate  by  Stenhouse  (1843),  who  regards  the  tannin  as  differing 
somewhat  from  caffeo-tannic  acid.  Rochleder,  on  the  contrary,  considered  the  tannin 
from  the  two  sources  as  identical,  but,  according  to  Arata  (1877),  matetanmc  acid  gives 
with  baryta-water  a green,  and  with  lead  acetate  a yellow-greenish,  precipitate,  and  its 
precipitate  with  gelatin  is  insoluble  in  the  tannin  solution  ; like  cafleo-tannin,  it  is  not 
precipitated  by  tartar  emetic,  and  on  dry  distillation  yields  pyrocatechin.  Alonzo 
Robbins  (1878)  examined  seven  samples  of  mate,  and  found  the  caffeine  to  vary  between 
0.2  and  1.6  per  cent,  and  the  tannin  between  10  and  16  per  cent. ; the  samples  contain- 
ing the  largest  amount  of  caffeine  yielded  the  least  tannin,  and  vice  versa.  Stenhouse 
had  found  0.13  (in  1843)  and  1.2  (in  1851)  per  cent,  of  caffeine.  According  to  Peckolt, 
the  average  is  0.5  per  cent.,  and  the  air-dried  leaves  vary  to  about  the  same  extent  as 
mate  in  the  percentage  of  caffeine  ; 0.24  per  cent,  of  crystallizable  mateviridic  acid  is 
present  in  both,  also  a minute  quantity  of  volatile  oil  and  stearopten. 

Action  and  Uses. — According  to  Barbier,  holly-leaves  (/.  aquifolium)  and  their 
preparations  produce  a sense  of  heat  and  oppression  in  the  stomach,  with  some  nausea, 
followed  by  colic  without  diarrhoea.  The  berries  vomit  and  purge,  and  at  least  one  case 
is  recorded  of  their  proving  fatal  to  a child.  The  leaves,  being  bitter,  were  naturally 
employed  for  the  cure  of  intermittent  fever , but  clinical  observations  by  competent 
physicians  have  proved  that  the  curative  power  of  the  medicine  in  this  disease  is  abso- 


ILLICIUM. 


863 


lutely  null.  The  leaves  have  been  used  in  rheumatism , internally  and  topically,  and  the 
berries  as  cathartics  in  dropsy.  The  leaves  of  I.  Cassine  are  reported  to  be  diuretic,  and 
are  employed  in  calculous  disorders,  and  also  as  a mild  emetic.  They  were  formerly  used 
by  American  Indians  ^for  the  latter  purpose  ( Therap . Gaz .,  lx.  504).  An  American 
species,  I.  opaca , is  demulcent,  and  is  used  in  decoction  to  palliate  cough  and  promote 
expectoration.  I.  para guayen  sis,  or  Paraguay  tea,  is  employed  in  its  native  country  very 
much  as  Chinese  tea  is  used  elsewhere,  and  for  similar  purposes  and  with  like  effects,  or, 
more  precisely,  with  effects  like  those  of  coca.  According  to  Couty  (1879),  when  its 
infusion  was  injected  into  an  animal’s  stomach  it  excited  efforts  to  urinate,  with  priapism 
and  quickening  of  the  pulse  ( Archives  gen.  de  Med.,  7 ser.  iii.  239).  In  1881,  Couty  and 
Arsonval  declared  that  it  “ diminished  the  carbonic  acid  and  the  oxygen  of  the  arterial 
blood  to  the  extent  of  one-third  or  even  one-half,”  and  that  thus  it  exerted  a powerful 
influence  upon  the  nutritive  function  (Bull,  de  Therap.,  ci.  81).  Its  infusion  is  said  to  be 
sudorific  or  diuretic,  and  in  large  doses  drastic. 

ILLICIUM,  V.  S. — Illicium. 

Anisi  stella ti  fructus,  Br. ; Semen  hadiani. — Star-anise,  Chinese  anise , E. ; Badiane , 
Anise  etoile,  Fr. ; Sternanis,  G. ; Semen  estrellado,  Sp. 

The  fruit  of  Illicium  verum,  Hooker  Jilius.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 10. 

Nat.  Ord. — Magnoliacese. 

Origin. — This  is  a shrub  or  small  tree  2.4  or  3.0  M.  (8  or  10  feet)  high,  with  ever- 
green lanceolate,  entire,  pellucid-punctate  leaves  and  greenish-yellow  polypetalous  flowers. 
It  is  indigenous  to  the  high  mountains  of  Yunnan  in  South-western  China  and  to  the 
west  of  Canton. 

Description. — Star-anise  consists  of  about  eight  boat-shaped  follicles,  which  are 
horizontally  arranged  in  one  circle  around  a pedunculate  short  axis.  The  follicles  are 
about  12-15  Mm.  (J  to  § inch)  long,  have  a shallow  depression  above 
near  the  apex,  and  a straight  beak,  which  in  the  commercial  article  is 
usually  partly  broken  off ; they  are  rather  woody,  externally  wrinkled 
and  brown,  internally  smooth,  red-brown,  and  glossy,  and  on  the 
upper  margin  usually  split  open.  Each  carpel  has  a single  seed, 
which  is  oval,  flattened,  oblique  at  the  base,  smooth,  and  of  a polished 
brown-yellow  color,  and  contains  a large  oily  albumen  enclosing  the 
small  embryo.  Star-anise  yields  about  78  per  cent,  of  capsular 
integuments,  which  have  a very  agreeable  anise-like  odor  and  a sweet- 
ish aromatic  taste.  The  seeds  weigh  about  22  per  cent.,  are  but 
slightly  aromatic,  and  have  an  oily  taste.  The  poisonous  fruit  of 
111.  religiosum,  described  below,  has  been  occasionally  mixed  with  star-anise. 

Constituents. — The  fruit  and  seeds  were  separately  examined  by  Meissner  (1818), 
who  obtained  from  the  former  5.3  per  cent,  of  volatile  oil,  2.8  of  fat,  10.7  of  resin,  etc.  ; 
the  fruit  seems  also  to  contain  a little  tannin,  mucilage,  and  pectin.  The  seeds  were 
found  by  Meissner  to  yield  only  1.8  per  cent,  of  volatile  oil  and  2.6  per  cent,  of  resin, 
but  about  20  per  cent,  of  fixed  oil.  The  volatile  oil  is  chemically  identical  with  that 
of  Pimpinella  Anisum.  (See  Oleum  Anisi.)  According  to  Eykman  (1880),  the  fruit 
contains  an  alkaloid,  which  has  not  been  further  examined. 

Allied  Plants. — Illicium  religiosum,  Siebold.  This  has  usually  been  regarded  as  identical 
with  the  preceding,  until  attention  was  directed  to  the  important  distinctions  by  Geerts,  Eyk- 
man, and  Holmes  in  1880.  The  plant  is  indigenous  to  Eastern  Asia, 
and  is  often  cultivated  in  Japan  near  the  temples ; it  is  a tree  7.5-9  M. 

(25  to  30  feet)  high,  with  broader  and  more  glaucous  leaves  and  with 
an  aromatic  bark.  The  fruit,  like  the  preceding,  consists  of  eight 
follicles  spreading  horizontally,  but  only  a portion  of  these  are  usually 
developed  to  maturity  ; each  follicle  is  about  3 or  10  Mm.  (£  or  § inch) 
long,  is  woody,  often  shrivelled,  has  near  the  apex  a short  and  rather 
deep  depression,  terminates  with  a short  curved  beak,  and  has  a faint 
clove-like  odor  and  an  unpleasant  taste.  The  plant  is  known  in 
Japan  as  sikimi  or  shikimi.  Eykman  found  in  the  fruit  an  alkaloid 
and  a poisonous  neutral  principle,  sikimin , which  crystallizes  in  hard 
prisms  or  needles,  is  insoluble  in  petroleum  benzin,  slightly  soluble  in 
cold  water,  more  freely  soluble  in  hot  water,  ether,  and  chloroform,  and  easily  soluble  in  alcohol 
and  glacial  acetic  acid.  The  volatile  oil  is  somewhat  heavier  than  water,  slightly  levogyre, 
reduces  ammoniacal  silver  solution,  and  consists  of  a terpene  boiling  near  175°  C.  (347°  F.)  and 
of  liquid  anethol  boiling  at  232°  C.  (450°  F.). 

III.  parviflorum,  Michaux,  a native  of  Florida  and  Georgia,  has  yellow  flowers  and  an  eight- 


Fig.  156. 


Ulirium  religiosum. 


Fig.  155. 


Star-anise. 


864 


IMPERA  TORI  A. 


carpelled  fruit,  with  a sassafras-like  flavor ; according  to  R.  E.  Griffith,  the  bark  may  be  used  as 
a substitute  for  cascarilla. 

III.  floridanum,  Ellis , grows  in  Florida  and  westward  to  Louisiana,  and  has  purple  flowers. 
The  fruit  consists  of  thirteen  carpels,  has  a rather  unpleasant  terebinthinate  taste,  and,  like  the 
leaves,  is  poisonous.  The  plant  is  known  in  Alabama  as  poison-bSj,  and  in  Louisiana  as 
stink-bush. 

III.  Griffithii,  Hooker  films  et  Thomson , a native  of  Eastern  Bengal,  has  a thirteen-carpelled 
fruit  of  a bitter  and  somewhat  acrid  taste. 

III.  majus,  Hooker  Jilius  et  Thomson , grows  in  the  Malayan  Peninsula,  and  has  a black-brown 
fruit  consisting  of  eleven  or  thirteen  carpels,  and  is  of  a mace-like  taste. 

Action  and  Uses. — Star-anise  has  the  same  qualities  as  the  officinal  anise,  and  in 
the  East  its  seeds  and  oil  are  used  for  similar  purposes — viz.  as  carminative,  anodyne, 
stimulant,  and  diuretic,  and  as  condiments  for  vegetable  food.  Externally,  they  are 
applied  to  allay  local  pains,  such  as  colic , rheumatism , earache , etc.  In  Germany  they  are 
employed  in  a similar  manner  internally  and  for  the  relief  of  bronchitis.  The  native 
species,  I.  floridanum , is  aromatic  in  its  leaves,  bark,  and  seeds ; the  bark  has  been 
suggested  as  a substitute  for  cascarilla,  and  the  seeds  for  those  of  anise.  The  root  of  1. 
parvifiorum  is  said  to  resemble  that  of  sassafras  in  its  properties,  but  the  properties  of 
the  seeds  seem  to  be  identical  with  those  of  I.  religiosum.  The  officinal  illicium  may  be 
administered  in  the  same  manner  as  anise. 

7.  religiosum  has  attracted  attention  within  several  years  on  account  of  its  poisonous 
properties  and  its  close  resemblance  to  star-anise.  In  1880  cases  of  poisoning  by  the 
former  occurred  in  Holland,  owing  to  its  having  been  mistaken  for  the  latter  (Am. 
Jour.  Phar .,  Aug.  1881,  p.  407)  ; and  in  the  same  year  in  Japan,  of  five  children 
between  two  and  five  years  old  who  had  eaten  of  the  fruit,  three  died,  unconscious, 
in  convulsions,  and  foaming  at  the  mouth.  Dr.  Langgaard,  who  relates  this  case  ( Vir- 
chow's Archiv , lxxxvi.  222),  states  that  the  Japanese  use  the  powder  of  the  plant,  every 
part  of  which  is  poisonous,  to  destroy  rats,  and  also  to  kill  fish,  which  are  edible  in 
spite  of  their  mode  of  death. 


IMPERATORIA. — Masterwort. 


Fig.  157. 


Rhizoma  ( Radix ) imperatorise , P.  G. ; Imperatoire , Fr.  Cod. ; Meisterwurz , Kaiser- 
wurz , G. 

The  root-stock  of  Peucedanum  (Imperatoria, 
Linne,')  Ostruthium,  Koch. 

Nat.  Ord. — Umbelliferae,  Peucedanese. 

Origin. — Masterwort  is  indigenous  to  the 
mountainous  regions  of  Southern  and  Central 
Europe,  grows  60  or  90  Cm.  (2  or  3 feet)  high,  and 
has  large  umbels  of  many  white  or  reddish  flowers. 
The  root-stocks  are  produced  at  the  termination  of 
thin  rhizomes  which  are  about  15  Cm.  (6  inches) 
long. 

Description. — The  horizontal  root-stock  is  5 — 
10  Cm.  (2  to  4 inches)  long,  of  the  thickness  of  a 
finger,  somewhat  conical,  and  slightly  flattened. 
Externally,  it  is  dark  brownish-gray,  wrinkled,  with 
warty  protuberances  or  scars,  and  finely  annulate. 
Internally,  it  is  brownish-white,  and  exhibits  upon 
the  transverse  section  a thin  bark  and  a large  cen- 
tral pith,  both  containing  many7  brown-yellow  resin- 
cells  ; the  wood-bundles  are  small,  yellowish,  and 
form  a loose  circle.  Masterwort  has  a strong 
balsamic  odor  and  an  aromatic,  pungent,  and  bitter 
taste.  It  has  been  noticed  by  Holmes  (1877)  as  an 
adulteration  of  aconite-root. 

Constituents. — Masterwort  contains  about  $ 
per  cent,  of  volatile  oil,  which,  according  to  Hirzel 
(1849)  is  a mixture  of  several  hydrates  of  a hydro- 
carbon, C10Hi6.  Wackenroder  (183l)  obtained  colorless  shining  crystals  of  imperatorin , 
Ci2Hi203,  which,  in  alcoholic  solution  only,  have  a pungent  taste.  Schlatter  (1833) 
obtained  peucedanin  from  the  root  of  Peucedanum  officinale,  Limit,  which  was  after- 


Imperatoria  Ostruthium,  Linne : root-stock 
natural  size;  and  transverse  section,  natural 
size  and  magnified. 


INDIGO. 


865 


ward  proved  by  R.  Wagner  to  be  identical  with  imperatorin.  Both  principles,  when 
boiled  with  an  alcoholic  solution  of  potassa,  are  resolved  into  angelic  acid  and  oreoselin , 
C14H1504.  The  latter  body  may  also  be  obtained  from  athamantin , C34H30O7,  which  was 
discovered  by  Winckler  (1842),  in  the  root  of  Athamanta  (Peucedanum,  Mcench) 
Oreoselinum,  Linne.  Athamantin  resembles  imperatorin,  unites  with  dry  hydrochloric 
acid,  and  on  boiling  this  compound  with  alcohol  is  split  into  valerianic  acid  and 
oreoselon,  C40H10O3,  which  crystallizes  in  needles,  and  on  being  boiled  with  water  and 
an  acid  yields  the  crystalline  oreoselin. 

Allied  Drug. — Peucedanum  officinale,  Linni. — The  root  is  blackish,  internally  brownish- 
yellow,  and  has  a rather  thick  bark  containing  numerous  orange-colored  resin-cells  in  radial 
rows,  and  enclosing  a soft  porous  wood,  with  resin-cells  in  the  medullary  rays. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  acrid  and  aromatic  taste  of  this  plant  and  its  odor 
resembling  that  of  angelica,  depend  upon  its  essential  oil,  and  to  the  stimulating  operation 
of  this  oil  nearly  all  the  medicinal  virtues  of  the  medicine  are  due.  It  is  but  little  used 
at  the  present  day,  but  it  was  formerly  prescribed  in  various  conditions  of  local  or  general 
debility.  Among  these  were  the  typhoid  state  of  fevers  and  inflammations,  intermittent 
fever , delirium  tremens,  and  some  forms  of  dropsy,  atonic  dyspepsia,  flatulent  colic,  hysteria, 
and  asthma  ; and  locally  it  was  used  as  a masticatory  to  relieve  toothache  and  paralysis 
of  the  tongue  or  palate  and  as  a stimulant  of  unhealthy  ulcers.  It  may  be  administered 
in  an  infusion  made  with  from  5 to  10  parts  of  the  root  and  100  parts  of  hot  water. 

INDIGO . — Indigo. 

Indicum,  Pigmentum  indicum. — Indigo , Fr.,  G.,  Sp.  ; Indaco,  It. ; Anil,  Sp. 

A blue  dyestuff  extracted  from  different  species  of  Indigofera.  Bentley  and  Trimen, 
Med.  Plants , 72. 

Nat.  Ord. — Leguminosae,  Papilionaceae,  Galegeae. 

Origin. — The  genus  consists  of  herbaceous  or  suffruticose  plants  which  are  indigenous 
to  and  cultivated  in  tropical  and  subtropical  countries.  The  most  important  species  are 
Indigofera  tinctoria,  Linne  (s.  I.  indica,  Lamarck ),  I.  Anil,  Linne,  and  I.  argentea,  Linne 
(s.  I.  glauca,  Lamarck,  I.  coerulea,  Roxburgh).  The  same  coloring  matter  is  also  con- 
tained in  the  woad , Isatis  tinctoria,  Linne  (Cruciferae),  of  Europe,  in  Polygonum  tinc- 
torium,  Linne  (Polygonaceae),  of  China,  in  Gymnema  (Asclepias)  tingens,  Sprengel , and  in 
Wrightia  (Nerium)  tinctoria,  R.  Brown,  of  Hindostan,  which  plants  are  employed  for  dyeing. 

Preparation. — The  plants  are  immersed  in  water  until  fermentation  has  set  in, 
whereby  the  chromogene  is  dissolved.  When  the  liquid  has  assumed  a sherry  color  it  is 
drawn  off  and  briskly  stirred,  so  as  to  bring  it  freely  into  contact  with  air.  As  the  chro- 
mogene becomes  oxidized  the  newly-formed  coloring  matter,  which  is  insoluble  in  water, 
subsides.  The  supernatant  liquid  is  then  decanted,  and  the  deposit  heated  to  boiling  to 
arrest  fermentation,  after  which  the  precipitate  is  collected,  pressed,  and  dried.  About 
3,000,000  pounds  of  indigo  are  imported  into  the  United  States  annually. 

Properties. — Indigo  is  met  with  in  porous,  hard,  but  brittle  lumps  or  cubical  cakes, 
which  are  inodorous,  tasteless,  and  of  a deep-blue  color,  assuming  a coppery  lustre  when 
scratched  or  rubbed  with  a hard  body ; inferior  qualities  are  of  a dull  hue,  with  a green- 
ish or  grayish  tint,  dense,  firm,  and  not  brittle.  It  is  insoluble  in  the  ordinary  solvents, 
dissolves  freely  in  concentrated  sulphuric  acid,  and  when  rapidly  heated  sublimes  partly 
in  purple-colored  vapors  which  condense  into  copper-colored  needles.  The  blue  color  of 
indigo  is  destroyed  by  reducing  agents  in  the  presence  of  alkali  and  by  oxidizing  agents. 

Constituents. — Indigo  of  good  quality  yields  about  7 per  cent,  of  ash,  and  contains 
the  proteid  indigo-gluten,  which  is  soluble  in  warm  diluted  acids,  and  various  brown,  red, 
and  yellow  coloring  matters,  besides  from  50  to  70  per  cent,  of  the  most  important  prin- 
ciple, indigo-blue  or  indigotin,  which  does  not  pre-exist  in  the  plant,  but  is  formed  from 
a colorless  syrupy  bitterish  compound  called  indican,  C26H3iNOn.  During  the  treatment 
described  above  indican  is  split,  mainly,  into  a saccharine  body,  indiglucin,  C6H10O6,  and 
indigotin,  C16H10N2O2.  On  treating  indigo  with  an  alkali  and  grape-sugar  or  ferrous  salt, 
a yellow  solution  containing  indigo-white,  C16H12N202,  is  obtained,  from  which,  on  exposure 
to  air,  pure  indigotin  is  deposited ; and  this,  by  oxidation  with  nitric  acid,  forms  yellow- 
ish-red, bitter  prisms  of  isatm , CI6Hi0N2O4,  which  on  distillation  with  potassa  yield  ani- 
line. Indigotin  is  soluble  in  hot  phenol,  aniline,  nitrobenzene,  paraffin,  fixed  oils,  and 
chloroform. 

Soluble  indigo,  or  sulphate  of  indigo,  is  prepared  by  gradually  adding  1 part  of  powdered 
indigo  to  5 parts  of  Nordhausen  sulphuric  acid  or  8 parts  of  oil  of  vitriol,  and  preventing 
55 


866 


INFUSA. 


a rise  of  temperature  by  immersing  the  vessel  in  cold  water.  In  the  course  of  2 or  3 
days  it  becomes  a dark-blue  pasty  mass,  the  solution  of  which  in  about  2 parts  of  water  is 
liquid  blue.  The  solution  contains  sulphopurpuric  acid  or  indigo-purple , C16H9N202.HS03, 
and  sulphindigotic  or  sulphocoerulic  acid,  C16H8N202(HS03)2 ; the  first  one  of  these  is 
insoluble  in  dilute  acids,  in  which  the  second  remains  dissolved,  and  is  obtained  pure  by 
transferring  it  from  its  dilute  solution  to  wool  and  dissolving  it  from  the  latter  by  means 
of  a weak  alkali.  Its  salts  are  amorphous  ; the  sodium  salt  is  sold  in  commerce  as  indigo- 
carmine , and  is  usually  obtained  by  adding  a sodium  salt  to  a solution  of  sulphate  of 
indigo,  washing  the  precipitate  with  a solution  of  the  same  salt,  and  expressing ; the 
product  is  soluble  in  pure  water. 

The  synthetical  preparation  of  indigo-blue  has  been  accomplished  by  Prof.  Adolf 
Baeyer  (1878)  by  converting  toluene,  through  a number  of  intermediate  products,  into 
isatin,  and  finally  into  indigotin.  But  for  use  in  the  arts  it  is  manufactured  from  cin- 
namic acid  by  converting  it  into  nitro-cinnamic  acid  ; then  into  nitrodibrom-cinnamic  acid, 
and  by  the  action  of  caustic  alkali  into  orthonitrophenyl-propiolic  acid,  C6H4(N02)C2C00II. 
On  heating  this  with  an  alkaline  solution  of  grape-sugar,  which  acts  as  a reducing  agent, 
oxygen  and  carbon  dioxide  are  eliminated,  and  indigotin  (C6H4NCHCO)2  is  produced. 

Valuation. — This  is  based  upon  determining  approximately  the  amount  of  indigotin 
contained  in  indigo  by  the  process  given  above,  or  by  exhausting  powdered  indigo  suc- 
cessively with  boiling  water,  dilute  hydrochloric  acid,  dilute  potassa  or  soda  (to  remove 
indigo-brown),  and  alcohol  (to  dissolve  indigo-red)  ; the  residue  consists  of  indigotin, 
from  which  the  ash  must  still  be  deducted.  Oxidizing  agents  are  also  employed  for  the 
valuation  of  indigo ; but  they  affect  also  other  constituents  besides  indigotin. 

Adulteration. — Indigo  when  dried  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  should  lose  not  over  6 per 
cent,  of  moisture,  and  yield  not  over  8 per  cent,  of  ash  when  incinerated.  Gum  or  starch, 
if  present,  forms  with  hot  water  a mucilaginous  liquid  or  paste,  and  if  treated  with  strong 
sulphuric  acid  is  carbonized,  coloring  the  indigo  black.  Adulteration  with  Prussian  blue  is 
detected  with  caustic  potassa  or  soda,  which  does  not  alter  indigo,  but  liberates  from  Prus- 
sian blue  ferric  hydroxide,  while  potassium  or  sodium  ferrocyanide  remains  in  solution. 

Action  and  Uses. — -During  the  experiments  made  many  years  ago  with  indigo 
in  the  treatment  of  epilepsy,  it  was  given  in  very  large  doses,  and,  as  a consequence, 
deranged  the  digestive  organs,  causing  vomiting  and  purging,  with  debility  and  some  nerv- 
ous disorder.  In  some  instances  the  urine  and  sweat  acquired  a bluish  color.  There  is 
not  the  slightest  ground  for  believing  that  it  exhibits  curative  virtues  in  epilepsy  or  in 
any  other  disease.  Its  dose  is  usually  stated  to  be  from  Gm.  0.30  to  1 (gr.  v-xv)  and 
upward.  Sulphate  of  indigo  has  been  alleged  to  be  a powerful  emmenagogue  (Med. 
Record , xxxii.  47). 


INFUSA,  U.  S.,  Be.,  P.  G. 

Infusions,  E.,  Fr.  ; Infuses,  Fr. ; Infusionen,  Aufgusse,  G. 

Infusions  are  aqueous  solutions  of  the  soluble  principles  of  vegetable  or  animal  drugs 
obtained  by  maceration  or  digestion  in  hot  or  cold  water,  and  differ  from  decoctions  only 
in  the  lower  degree  of  heat  employed  in  their  preparation.  Substances  containing  vola- 
tile or  other  principles  which  would  be  dissipated  or  injured  by  boiling  are  particularly 
adapted  for  this  purpose.  Except  in  a few  cases  in  which  percolation  is  directed,  the 
pharmacopceial  infusions  are  prepared  by  pouring  boiling  or  cold  water  upon  the  material 

and  allowing  them  to  remain  in  contact  tor  a 
definite  length  of  time,  at  the  expiration  of 
which  the  solution  is  poured  upon  a strainer, 
and  the  solid  material  expressed  to  recover 
the-  liquid  absorbed  by  it.  A convenient  ap- 
paratus, well  adapted  for  making  these  prep- 
arations, is  Squire’s  infusion-pot:  this  consists 
of  a jar  A,  with  a projecting  ledge  near  the 
top,  which  supports  a strainer,  B or  D,  con- 
taining the  material  to  be  exhausted,  the  jai 
is  closed  by  a well-fitting  cover,  C.  The  « 
vantages  of  this  contrivance  are— that  the 
material  is  exhausted  by  circulatory  displace- 

ment,  the  liquid,  as  it  becomes  charged  with 

Squire’s  infusion-Pot.  the  soluble  ingredients  descending  to  the  bot- 


INFUSA. 


867 


tom,  giving  place  to  fresh  portions  of  less  saturated  menstruum,  and  that  no  further 
straining  is  required  should  care  have  been  taken  not  to  use  too  fine  a powder. 

The  drugs  are  best  adapted  for  exhaustion  with  water  if  cut  into  thin  slices  by  a suit- 
able knife,  so  that  they  may  be  easily  permeated  by  the  liquid ; when  cutting  is  inadmis- 
sible they  should  be  bruised  to  a coarse  powder.  Ligneous  drugs,  however,  should  be  in 
a fine  or  moderately  fine  powder,  which  is  also  best  adapted  for  most  of  those  which  may 
be  made  by  percolation. 

The  time  directed  for  the  maceration  with  boiling  water  is,  in  the  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia, 
usually  a half  hour,  and  in  the  British  Pharmacopoeia  fifteen  or  thirty  minutes. 

The  strength  of  the  infusions  of  the  British  Pharmacopoeia  is  usually  such  that  the 
virtues  of  1 part  of  the  drug  are  represented  by  20  or  40  parts  of  the  infusion ; the  sim- 
ple infusions  for  which  special  directions  are  given  in  the  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia  are  made 
in  the  proportion  of  If,  4,  or  6 parts  to  100  parts  by  weight.  The  French  Codex  classi- 
fies these  preparations  according  to  their  strength,  and  designates  such,  100  or  200  parts 
of  which  represent  1 part  of  the  drug,  as  tisanes , ptisans e ; they  are  made  either  by 
maceration,  infusion,  or  decoction,  and  are  intended  to  be  used  freely.  Bouillons  are  sim- 
ilar preparations  made  from  lean  meat,  with  or  without  the  addition  of  aromatics  and 
other  substances.  Apozemes  are  infusions  or  decoctions  differing  from  tisanes  only  in 
being  more  concentrated. 

Infusions  are  not  intended  to  be  kept,  except  for  a very  limited  period.  Exposed  to 
air,  as  they  necessarily  must  be  in  the  sick  chamber  through  the  vial  containing  them 
being  opened  from  time  to  time,  decomposition  must  ensue  after  a day  or  two,  and  may 
be  retarded  somewhat  only  by  keeping  the  vessel  in  a cool  place,  or,  better  still,  on  ice. 
When  desirable  to  have  a larger  quantity  prepared  the  liquid  may  be  preserved  by 
Appert's  method:  it  is  put  into  convenient-sized  vials,  which  are  heated  by  a water- 
bath  gradually  to  the  boiling-point,  and  stopped  at  that  temperature.  However,  consid- 
ering that  infusions  are  rarely  made  by  the  pharmacist,  but  are  usually  prepared  by  the 
attendants  of  the  patient,  and  may  be  frequently  made  as  required,  there  is  little  neces- 
sity for  such  a course  or  for  any  of  the  various  contrivances  that  have  been  proposed  for 
obviating  fermentation  and  other  changes  in  infusions.  But  for  the  physician  it  may  be 
useful  to  know  that  most  of  the  infusions  may  be  prepared  in  a more  concentrated  form, 
or  reduced  in  volume  by  evaporation  at  a moderate  heat,  and  then  be  kept  unaltered  for 
a considerable  time  by  the  addition  of  one-third  their  volume  of  alcohol.  Dissolving  I 
grain  of  salicylic  acid  in  each  fluidounce  of  the  infusion  will  have  a similar  preservative 
effect. 

Nearly  all  the  infusions  will  yield  precipitates  or  become  discolored  with  the  salts  of 
iron,  lead,  mercury,  silver,  and  other  heavy  metals,  and  are  therefore  incompatible  with 
them. 

The  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia  has  adopted  the  plan  of  ordering  all  infusions  unless  other- 
wise directed  by  the  physician,  and  with  the  exception  of  four  specially  enumerated,  to  be 
made  of  I part  of  material  to  20  parts  of  infusion  according  to  the  following  directions : 
“An  ordinary  infusion,  the  strength  of  which  is  not  directed  by  the  physician  nor  speci- 
fied by  the  pharmacopoeia,  shall  be  prepared  by  the  following  formula  : Take  of  the  sub- 
stance, coarsely  comminuted,  50  Gm.  ; boiling  water,  1000  Cc.  ; water  a sufficient  quan- 
tity, to  make  1000  Cc.  Put  the  substance  into  a suitable  vessel  provided  with  a cover, 
pour  upon  it  the  boiling  water,  cover  the  vessel  tightly,  and  let  it  stand  for  \ hour. 
Then  strain,  and  pass  enough  water  through  the  strainer  to  make  the  infusion  measure 
1000  Cc.  Caution. — The  strength  of  infusions  of  energetic  or  powerful  substances  should 
be  specially  prescribed  by  the  physician.” 

The  official  strength  of  infusions  is  equal  to  about  23  grains  of  drug  for  each  fluid- 
ounce. 

The  Pharmacopoeia  omits  to  direct  the  expression  of  the  drug  after  infusion,  but  it  is 
evident  that  bulky  herbs  and  flowers,  which  are  best  adapted  to  this  process,  would  retain 
a considerable  proportion  of  the  liquid,  which  cannot  be  washed  out  simply  by  passing 
water  through  the  strainer  to  make  up  the  deficiency  in  volume. 

The  strength  of  infusions  of  the  German  Pharmacopoeia  is  double  that  of  our  own,  but 
the  general  directions  given  for  their  preparation  are  nearly  identical  with  the  above,  from 
which  they  differ  only  in  this,  that  the  mixture  of  drug  and  boiling  water  is  heated 
or  fi,ve  minutes  in  a vapor-bath  of  boiling  water,  occasionally  stirred,  allowed  to  cool, 
and  strained.  The  concentrated  and  highly -concentrated  infusions , made  respectively  with 
lj  and  2 parts  of  drug  to  10  parts  of  infusion,  are  no  longer  recognized. 


868 


INFUSUM  ANTHEMIDIS.—INFUSUM  CARY OPHYLLI. 


INFUSUM  ANTHEMIDIS,  Br . — Infusion  of  Chamomile. 

Infusum  chamomillse  romanse. — Thane  de  chamomille  romaine , Fr. ; Rbmhch-Kamillen- 
thee , G-. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Chamomille-flowers  i ounce;  Boiling  Distilled  Water  10 
fluidounces.  Infuse  in  a covered  vessel  for  fifteen  minutes  and  strain. — Br. 

A fluidounce  of  this  infusion  represents  22  grains  Br .,  or  23  grains  of  chamomile,, 
if  made  by  the  general  formula  above. 

Uses. — The  dose  of  this  infusion  is  about  a wine-glassful  (Gm.  64)  before  meals  ; it 
is  more  apt  to  agree  with  the  stomach  when  made  with  cold  water.  The  infusion,  when 
warm,  is  an  efficient  and  gentle  emetic.  When  cold  it  has  been  particularly  recommended 
in  the  diarrhoea  connected  with  dentition,  when  the  stools  are  many,  green,  slimy  and 
streaked  with  blood  (Elliott). 

INFUSUM  AURANTII,  Br. — Infusion  of  Orange-peel. 

Tisane  d'ecorce  d’ orange,  Fr. ; Pomeranzenschalen-Anfguss , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Bitter  Orange-peel,  cut  small  \ ounce ; Boiling  Distilled 
water  10  fluidounces.  Infuse  in  a covered  vessel  for  fifteen  minutes,  and  strain. — Br. 

Uses. — This  infusion  may  be  prescribed  to  allay  pain  and  flatulence  in  colic  and  as  a 
vehicle  for  other  medicines,  particularly  magnesia.  Dose , Gm.  32-64  (f^j-ij). 

INFUSUM  AURANTII  COMPOSITUM,  Br.— Compound  iNFusion 

of  Orange-peel. 

Tisane  decorce  d'  orange  composee , Fr.  ; Pomeranzen-  und  Citro  n en  schalen  - A ufguss , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Bitter  Orange-peel,  cut  small,  i ounce ; Fresh  Lemon-peel, 
cut  small,  56  grains;  Cloves,  bruised,  28  grains;  Boiling  Distilled  Water,  10  fluidounces. 
Infuse  in  a covered  vessel  for  fifteen  minutes  and  strain. — Br. 

Uses. — The  compound  infusion  of  orange-peel  is  a grateful  carminative,  appropriate 
in  flatulence  and  also  in  slight  diarrhoea  caused  by  indigestion.  Dose , Gm.  32-64  (fjj-ij). 

INFUSUM  BUCHU,  Br.— Infusion  of  Buchu. 

Infusum  diosmse  s.  barosmse. — Tisane  de  bucco , Fr. ; Buchuaufguss , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Buchu-Leaves,  bruised,  J ounce ; Boiling  Distilled  Water 
10  fluidounces.  Infuse  in  a covered  vessel  for  thirty  minutes,  and  strain. — Br. 

A fluidounce  of  this  infusion  represents  22  grains,  Br .,  or  23  grains  of  buchu  if  made 
by  the  general  formula  given  above. 

Uses. — This  preparation  contains  all  the  virtues  of  buchu,  and  is  preferable  to  more 
concentrated  forms  of  the  medicine.  Dose,  Gm.  32-64  (Dy-ij).  It  is  usual  to  make  an 
infusion  with  equal  proportions  of  buchu  and  uva  ursi. 

INFUSUM  CALUMBiE,  Br. — Infusion  of  Calumba. 

Infusion  of  columbo , E.  ; Tisane  de  Colombo , Fr. ; Kolombo-Ir fusion , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Calumba-root,  cut  small,  4 ounce;  Cold  Distilled  Water, 
10  fluidounces.  Macerate  in  a covered  vessel  for  thirty  minutes,  and  strain. — Br. 

The  infusion  made  with  hot  water  is  much  more  mucilaginous  and  unsightly  than  if 
made  with  cold  water,  either  by  maceration  or  percolation.  Each  fluidounce  represents 
22  grains  Br .,  or  23  grains  if  made  by  the  above  general  formula. 

Uses. — This  is  probably  the  most  useful  preparation  of  Colombo  if  made  with  due 
precautions  and  care  be  taken  to  prevent  its  fermentation.  Dose , Gm.  64  (f^ij)  before 
meals. 

INFUSUM  CARYOPHYLLI,  Br.— Infusion  of  Cloves. 

Tisane  de  giroflc,  Fr. ; Gewiirznelken- Infusion , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Cloves,  bruised,  i ounce  ; Boiling  Distilled  Water  10  fluid- 
ounces.  Macerate  in  a covered  vessel  for  thirty  minutes,  and  strain. — Br. 

1 fluidounce  of  this  infusion  represents  11  grains  Br.,  and  if  made  by  the  general  for- 
mula, 23  grains. 

Uses. — Infusion  of  cloves  is  used  to  allay  flatulent  colic  and  nausea  from  exhaustion. 
Dose,  Gm.  16  (f^ss). 


INFUSUM  CASCA RILLHJ.—INFUS  UM  CINCHONAS. 


869 


INFUSUM  CASCARELLiE,  Br, — Infusion  of  Cascarilla. 

Tisane  de  cascarille , Fr.  ; Kaskarilla-Aufguss , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Cascarilla-bark,  in  No.  20  powder,  1 ounce ; Boiling  Dis- 
tilled Water  10  fluidounces  (Imperial  measure).  Infuse  in  a covered  vessel  for  thirty 
minutes,  and  strain. — Br. 

This  is  of  precisely  double  the  strength  as  indicated  by  the  general  formula  on  page 
867. 

Uses. — Cascarilla  is  best  administered  in  this  form.  It  may  be  given  in  doses  of  Gm. 
64  (f^ij)  two  or  three  times  a day. 

INFUSUM  CATECHU,  ^.—Infusion  of  Catechu. 

Infusum  catechu  composition,  U.  S.  1870. — Compound  infusion  of  catechu , E.  ; Tisane 
de  cachou  composee , Fr. ; Catechuaufguss  mit  Zimmt , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Catechu,  in  coarse  powder,  160  grains  ; Cinnamon-bark, 
bruised,  30  grains  ; Boiling  Distilled  Water  10  fluidounces.  Infuse  in  a covered  vessel 
for  thirty  minutes,  and  strain. — Br. 

Made  by  the  present  general  formula,  it  would  be  about  50  per  cent,  stronger. 

Uses. — The  addition  of  cinnamon  to  catechu  in  this  preparation  increases  its  astrin- 
■gency,  and  renders  it  stimulant  and  anodyne  at  the  same  time.  It  is  a convenient  remedy 
for  diarrhoea  with  flatulent  colic,  provided  the  bowels  are  free  from  irritating  ingesta. 
Dose , from  Gm.  32-96  (f^j-iij). 

INFUSUM  CHIRAT^l,  Br, — Infusion  of  Chiretta. 

' Tisane  de  chirette , Fr. ; Chiretta- Thee,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Chiretta,  cut  small,  \ ounce ; Distilled  Water,  at  120°  F., 
10  ounces.  Infuse  in  a covered  vessel  for  thirty  minutes,  and  strain. — Br. 

Uses. — This  infusion  resembles  that  of  quassia  in  its  qualities,  and  may  be  used  where 
simple  bitters  are  needed,  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  64-96  (gij— iij). 

INFUSUM  CINCHONiE,  JJ,  S, — Infusion  of  Cinchona. 

Infusum  cinchonse  acidum , Br.  ; Acid  infusion  of  cinchona , E.  ; Tisane  acidulee  de 
quinquina , Fr.  ; JSaurer  China- Aufguss,  G. 

Preparation. — Cinchona,  in  No.  40  powder,  60  Gm.  ; Aromatic  Sulphuric  Acid  10 
Cc.  ; Water  a sufficient  quantity,  to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  acid  with  500  Cc.  of  water, 
and  moisten  the  powder  with  30  Cc.  of  the  mixture ; pack  it  firmly  in  a conical  glass 
percolator,  and  gradually  pour  upon  it  first  the  remainder  of  the  mixture,  and  afterward 
water  until  the  infusion  measures  1000  Cc. — U.  S.  When  no  variety  of  cinchona  is 
specified  by  the  physician  directing  this  infusion,  use  yellow  cinchona. 

To  make  1 pint  of  the  infusion  would  require  438  grains  of  cinchona  and  about  80 
minims  of  aromatic  sulphuric  acid ; the  acid  should  be  mixed  with  8 fluidounces  of 
water. 

Red  cinchona-bark,  in  No.  20  powder,  \ oz.  (1  part)  ; aromatic  sulphuric  acid  1 fl. 
drachm  (1  fl.  part)  ; boiling  distilled  water  10  fl.  oz.  (20  fl.  parts).  Infuse  in  a covered 
vessel  for  one  hour  and  strain. — Br. 

The  first  process,  if  well  conducted,  obtains  all  the  alkaloids  of  the  bark  in  a soluble 
condition,  and  is,  in  point  of  fact,  simply  a solution  of  the  sulphates  of  these  alkaloids 
slightly  weaker  than  that  made  by  the  Pharmacopoeia  of  1870.  The  second  process  will 
yield  a very  similar  preparation,  the  straining  being  effected  when  cold.  The  chief  differ- 
ence between  the  two  preparations  is  that  in  the  former  any  good  variety  of  cinchona  may 
be  employed,  while  for  the  latter  red  bark  from  cultivated  plants  is  used. 

Infusum  cinchonse  flavse , Br.  1867,  was  made  with  boiling  water,  no  acid  having  been 
used.  Such  infusions,  if  strained  while  hot,  will  become  turbid ; and  if  strained  after 
cooling  are  clear,  but  retain  merely  those  alkaloids  which  in  the  natural  combination  are 
soluble  in  cold  water. 

Uses.  The  infusion  of  cinchona  is  used  only  as  a tonic,  and  not  as  an  anti-periodic, 
and  may  be  prescribed  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  64  (f^ij)  three  times  a day. 


870 


INFUSUM  CUSP  A RIJE.—INFUS  UM  DULCAMARA. 


INFUSUM  CUSPARL33,  Br.— Infusion  of  Ousparia. 

Infusum  angusturae,  U.  S.  1870. — Infusion  of  angustura  E. ; Tisane  d'angusture,  Fr. ; 
An gustura- Infusion,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Cusparia-bark,  No.  40  powder,  i ounce  ; Distilled  Water,  at 
120°  F.,  10  fluidounces.  Infuse  in  a covered  vessel  for  one  hour,  and  strain. — Br. 

1 fluidounce  of  this  infusion  contains  the  virtues  of  nearly  22  grains,  Br.,  23  grains 
U.  S.  1890  (15  grains  U.  S.  1870),  of  angustura-bark. 

Uses. — It  may  be  used  in  the  treatment  of  atonic  dyspepsia,  and  in  feeble  digestion, 
generally,  in  doses  of  Gm.  32-64  (fsj-ij). 

INFUSUM  CUSSO,  Br.—  Infusion  of  Kousso. 

Infusum  brayerae,  U.  S.,  1880  ; Apozeme  de  cousso , Fr. ; Kossotrank,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Kousso,  in  coarse  powder,  1 ounce;  Boiling  Distilled  Water 
8 fluidounces.  Infuse  in  a covered  vessel  for  fifteen  minutes.  Not  to  be  strained. — Br. 
Kousso  20  Gm. ; boiling  water  150  Gm. — Fr.  Cod. 

Uses. — Following  the  Abyssinian  mode  of  administering  this  vermifuge,  the  coarsely- 
powdered  flowers  are  taken  along  with  the  water  in  which  they  are  infused.  The  8 fluid- 
ounces  should  be  divided  into  two  portions,  and  used  with  an  interval  of  an  hour  be- 
tween them  in  the  morning  fasting. 

INFUSUM  DIGITALIS,  77.  S.,  Br  — Infusion  of  Digitalis. 

Tisane  de  digital , Fr.  ; Finger  hut  aufguss,  G. 

Preparation. — Digitalis,  bruised,  15  Gm. ; Alcohol,  100  Cc. ; Cinnamon-water,  150 
Cc.  ; Boiling  Water,  500  Cc.  ; Water,  cold,  a sufficient  quantity  to  make  1000  Cc.  Upon 
the  digitalis,  contained  in  a suitable  vessel,  pour  the  boiling  water,  and  allow  it  to  mace- 
rate until  the  mixture  is  cold.  Then  strain,  add  the  alcohol  and  cinnamon  water  to  the 
strained  liquid,  and  pass  enough  cold  water  through  the  residue  on  the  strainer  to  make 
the  product  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  B. 

To  make  1 pint  of  the  infusion  110  grains  of  digitalis  should  be  macerated  in  8 fluid- 
ounces  of  boiling  water  until  cold  ; after  straining  13  fluidrachms  of  alcohol,  2J  fluid- 
ounces  of  cinnamon-water  and  sufficient  cold  water  are  to  be  added  to  bring  the  volume 
of  the  liquid  up  to  16  fluidounces. 

Take  of  digitalis-leaves,  dried  28  grains  ; boiling  distilled  water  10  fluidounces.  Infuse 
in  a covered  vessel  for  15  minutes,  and  strain. — Br. 

The  bitter  taste  of  digitalis  is  masked  in  the  first  preparation  by  the  cinnamon,  and 
the  small  quantity  of  alcohol  and  oil  of  cinnamon  will  preserve  the  infusion  for  several 
days  before  a precipitate  makes  its  appearance,  which  probably  contains  a portion  of  the 
digitalin.  D.  E.  Prall  (1878),  however,  did  not  succeed  in  isolating  digitalin  from  the 
precipitate.  1 fluidounce  of  the  infusion  represents  7 grains,  U.  S.  P.,  3 grains,  Br.  of 
digitalis. 

Uses. — The  infusion  is  probably  the  most  certain  diuretic  preparation  of  digitalis.  In 
the  treatment  of  dropsy  it  should  be  steadily  continued  until  it  begins  to  act  either  upon 
the  kidneys,  the  stomach,  the  pulse,  or  the  bowels.  Then,  however,  it  ought  at  once  to 
be  suspended  or  the  dose  greatly  lessened.  Its  physiological  effects,  it  should  be  remem- 
bered, continue  for  several  days  after  the  medicine  is  discontinued,  and  its  diuretic  action 
occurs  most  readily  during  a state  of  rest.  Dose , Gm.  16-32  (f^ss-j)  two  or  three  times 
a day.  A compound  vinous  infusion  is  a more  efficient  diuretic  than  the  simpler  officinal 
preparation  ; thus : White  wine  750  parts  ; juniper-berries,  bruised,  50  parts  ; digitalis  10 
parts;  squill  5 parts.  Macerate  for  4 days,  and  add  potassium  acetate  15  parts.  Dose , 
Gm.  16  (fgss)  three  times  a day. 

INFUSUM  DULCAMARA. — Infusion  of  Dulcamara. 

Tisane  de  douce-amere,  Fr. ; Bittersiissaufguss,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Dulcamara,  bruised,  1 ounce;  Boiling  Distilled  Water  10 
fluidounces.  Infuse  in  a covered  vessel  for  one  hour,  and  strain. — Br.  1867 

Uses. — The  infusion  is  probably  the  most  efficient  preparation  of  dulcamara.  Its 
very  dilution  increases  its  activity.  Dose,  Gm.  32-64  (fgi-ij). 


INFUSUM  ERG  01  'JE. — INF  US  UM  LINI. 


871 


INFUSUM  ERGOTiE,  Br. — Imfusion  of  Ergot. 

Tisane  de  seigle  ergote , Fr.  ; Mutterkornaufguss , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Ergot,  in  coarse  powder,  \ ounce;  Boiling  Distilled  Water 
10  fluidounces.  Infuse  in  a covered  vessel  for  thirty  minutes,  and  strain. — Br. 

Uses. — The  dose  of  this  preparation  for  a woman  in  labor  is  Gm.  32-64  (f^i-ij). 
Each  fluidounce  (Gm.  32)  contains  about  10  grains  (Gm.  0.60)  of  ergot. 

INFUSUM  GENTIANS  COMPOSITUM,  Br.— Compound  Infusion  of 

Gentian. 

Tisane  de  gentiane  composee,  Fr.  ; Enzianaufguss , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Gentian-root,  sliced,  Bitter  Orange-peel,  cut  small,  each  55 
grains;  Fresh  Lemon-peel,  cut  small,  £ ounce;  Boiling  Distilled  Water  10  fluidounces. 
Infuse  in  a covered  vessel  for  thirty  minutes,  and  strain. — Br. 

Take  of  gentian,  in  moderately  coarse  powder,  % troyounce  ; bitter  orange-peel,  in 
moderately  coarse  powder,  coriander,  in  moderately  coarse  powder,  each  60  grains ; alco- 
hol 2 fluidounces ; water  a sufficient  quantity.  Mix  the  alcohol  with  14  fluidounces  of 
water,  and,  having  moistened  the  mixed  powders  with  3 fluidrachms  of  the  menstruum, 
pack  them  firmly  in  a conical  percolator,  and  gradually  pour  upon  them  first  the  remainder 
of  the  menstruum,  and  then  water,  until  the  filtered  liquid  measures  a pint. — U.  S.  1870. 

The  first  formula  yields  an  agreeable  preparation,  which,  however,  does  not  keep  as  well 
as  that  made  by  the  second  formula,  in  which  alcohol  is  present  in  sufficient  quantity  to 
preserve  it  unaltered  for  some  days.  As  it  is  an  elegant  preparation,  frequently  prescribed 
in  small  quantities,  J.  T.  Shinn  (1862)  proposed  to  exhaust  four  times  the  weight  of  mate- 
rial directed  by  percolation  with  diluted  alcohol  sufficient  for  obtaining  1 pint  of  tincture, 
4 fluidounces  of  which,  diluted  with  12  fluidounces  of  water,  will  exactly  represent  1 pint 
of  the  infusion,  as  directed  by  the  U.  S.  P.  1870.  (See  also  Mistura  Gentians). 

Uses. — This  is  an  agreeable  and  efficient  stomachic  tonic,  and  may  be  used  in  doses  of 
Gm.  32  (f^j)  two  or  three  times  a day. 

INFUSUM  KRAMERLE,,  Br. — Infusion  of  Rhatany. 

Tisane  de  ratanhia , Fr. ; Ratanha-Aufguss , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Rhatany-root,  in  No.  40  powder,  § ounce  ; Boiling  Distilled 
Water  10  fluidounces.  Infuse  in  a covered  vessel  for  thirty  minutes,  and  strain. — Br. 

A fluidounce  of  this  infusion,  made  by  the  U.  S.  P.  1870,  represented  30  grains  ; made 
by  the  present  general  formula,  23  grains. 

Uses. — In  all  cases  of  internal  haemorrhage  to  which  astringents  are  applicable  this 
infusion  may  be  advantageously  employed,  the  more  so  the  more  passive  the  bleeding. 
It  is  also  useful  in  mucous  profluvia  of  the  bronchia i and  the  g astro-intestinal  tube.  A 
watery  solution  of  extract  of  rhatany  is,  however,  generally  preferable.  Bose,  Gm.  64 

(®j). 


INFUSUM  LINI,  Br. — Infusion  of  Linseed. 

Infusum  Uni  compositum , U.  S.,  1870 — Infusion  of  flaxseed,  E. ; Tisane  de  lin,  Fr.  \Lein- 
samenaufguss,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Linseed  150  grains  ; Dried  Liquorice-root,  in  No.  20  powder, 
50  grains;  Boiling  Distilled  Water  10  fluidounces.  Infuse  in  a covered  vessel  for  two 
hours,  and  strain. — Br. 

Liquorice-root  is  added  in  this  infusion  with  the  view  of  improving  its  flavor.  As  the 
mucilage  is  contained  in  the  covering  of  the  seed,  it  should  not  be  bruised,  otherwise  the 
oil  will  be  emulsionized,  and  the  swelling  of  the  entire  tissue  will  prevent  the  straining 
of  the  liquid. 

Uses. — The  apparent  intention  of  this  preparation  is  to  provide  an  appropriate  remedy 
for  acute  mucous  inflammations  of  the  respiratory  tract,  an  object  which  scarcely  required 
a special  formula,  since  in  domestic  practice  it  is  customary  to  add  extract  of  liquorice, 
sugar,  or  lemon-juice  to  flaxseed  tea  for  these  affections.  The  liquorice  also  renders  the 
infusion  less  appropriate  for  bowel  and  urinary  disorders,  to  which  the  simple  flaxseed  tea 
is  generally  well  adapted.  It  may  be  drunk  freely. 


872 


1NFUSUM  LUPULI.— INFUSUM  RHEI. 


INFUSUM  LUPULI,  Br  — Infusion  of  Hop. 

Infusum  humuli , U.  S.  1870. — Tisane  de  houblon , Fr. ; Hopfenaufguss , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Hop  J ounce  ; Boiling  Distilled  Water  10  fluidounces. 
Infuse  in  a covered  vessel  for  one  hour,  and  strain. — Br. 

If  made  by  the  present  general  formula,  the  infusion  will  be  of  about  the  same 
strength. 

Uses. — It  is  the  most  eligible  form  for  the  administration  of  hop  when  alcohol  is  con- 
traindicated. Bose,  Gm.  61-128  (fgij-iv)  every  two  or  three  hours. 

INFUSUM  MATIC^,  Br. — Infusion  of  Matico. 

Tisane  de  matico , Fr. ; Matico- Aufguss,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Matico-leaves,  cut  small,  1 ounce;  Boiling  Distilled  Water 

10  fluidounces.  Infuse  in  a covered  vessel  for  thirty  minutes,  and  strain. — Br. 
Uses* — This  astringent  but  not  very  efficient  preparation  may  be  prescribed  in  doses 

of  Gm.  32  (f^j)  or  more. 

INFUSUM  PRUNI  VIRGINIAN,®,  U.  Infusion  of  Wild  Cherry. 

Tisane  d'ecorce  de  cerisier  sauvage , Fr. ; Wildkirschen-  Thee,  G. 

Preparation. — Wild  Cherry,  in  No.  40  powder,  40  Gm. ; Water  a sufficient  quantity, 
to  make  100  parts.  Moisten  the  powder  with  60  Cc.  of  water  and  macerate  for  one  hour  ; 
then  pack  it  firmly  in  a conical  glass  percolator,  and  gradually  pour  water  upon  it  until 
the  infusion  measures  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 pint  of  the  infusion  293  grains  of  wild-cherry  bark  should  be  macerated 
with  a fluidounce  of  water  for  an  hour,  and  then  percolated  with  water  until  16  fluid- 
ounces  have  been  obtained. 

Made  with  cold  water  as  directed  by  the  Pharmacopoeia,  this  infusion  contains  volatile 

011  and  hydrocyanic  acid,  which  are  not  generated  by  the  use  of  hot  water. 

Uses. — This  is  the  best  form  in  which  wild-cherry-bark  can  be  used,  as  a mild  tonic 
and  a sedative  of  the  irritable  heart.  It  is  also  applicable  to  the  treatment  of  irritative 
dyspepsia , nervous  cough,  the  cough  of  early  pulmonary  phthisis , and  the  hectic  irritation 
of  the  decline  of  that  disease.  Dose , Gm.  64-96  (f^ij-iij)  several  times  a day. 

INFUSUM  QUASSL®,  Br.— Infusion  of  Quassia. 

Tisane  de  quassie,  Fr. ; Quassia- Aufguss,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Quassia-wood,  in  chips,  55  grains;  Cold  Distilled  Water,  10 
fluidounces.  Macerate  in  a covered  vessel  for  thirty  minutes,  and  strain. — Br. 

We  can  perceive  no  objection  to  the  use  of  warm  water  in  making  this  infusion, 
whereby  time  might  be  materially  economized  without  interfering  with  the  appearance 
or  efficiency  of  the  preparation  ; maceration,  as  directed  above,  will  yield  a very  bitter 
infusion,  containing,  however,  only  a portion  of  the  quassia.  If  made  by  the  general 
formula  (see  page  867),  the  infusion  will  be  about  four  times  the  strength  of  the  above. 

Uses. — Infusion  of  quassia  is  the  purest  of  bitter  infusions,  and  is  the  best  form 
for  administering  this  useful  stomachic  tonic.  The  dose  is  Gm.  64  (f^ij)  three  times 
a day. 


INFUSUM  RHEI,  Br. — Infusion  of  Rhubarb. 

Tisane  de  rhubarbe,  Fr. ; Rliabarber aufguss,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Bhubarb-root,  in  thin  slices,  4 ounce  ; Boiling  Distilled 
Water,  10  fluidounces.  Infuse  in  a covered  vessel  for  thirty  minutes,  and  strain. — Br. 

Bhubarb  being  easily  permeated  by  water,  it  is  preferable  to  employ  it  for  this  purpose 
cut  into  thin  slices,  instead  of  bruising  it;  in  the  latter  case  the  finer  powder  should  be 
sifted  off.  But  in  either  case  the  preparation  is  unsightly,  and  becomes  still  more  so 
by  long-continued  digestion.  A handsomer  though  weaker  infusion  is  obtained  by  the 
formula  of  the  French  Codex,  by  maceration  for  four  hours  with  cold  water.  In  Germany 
a preparation  has  long  been  in  use  under  the  name  of  Infusum  rhei  lcalinum  or  Tinctura 
rhei  aquosa,  which  is  now  prepared  as  follows : Bhubarb,  sliced,  100  parts ; borax  and 
potassium  carbonate,  each  10  parts  ; boiling  distilled  water,  900  parts.  Infuse  for  fifteen 


INFUStTM  MOSuF  A CID  UM.— INDUS  UM  SENNJE  COMPOSITUM. 


873 

minutes,  add  alcohol  90  parts,  and  macerate  for  one  hour ; then  express  lightly,  and  to 
850  parts  of  the  liquid  add  cinnamon-water  150  parts.  The  finished  preparation  represents 
nearly  10  per  cent,  of  rhubarb,  is  of  a dark  red-brown  color,  transparent  in  thin  layers, 
mixes  clear  with  aqueous  liquids,  and  has  not  an  alkaline  reaction,  but  is  incompatible 
with  all  preparations  which  are  decomposed  by  alkalies.  It  may  be  preserved  for  several 
months  if  kept  in  small  vials  and  in  a cool  place. 

Uses. — This  infusion  is  seldom  prescribed,  either  alone  or  as  a vehicle  for  other  pur- 
gatives. In  the  latter  case  it  has  been  associated  with  salines,  such  as  sodium  tartrate  or 
potassium  bitartrate.  The  diluted  form  of  this  preparation  is  probably  not  without  its 
advantages  in  maintaining  a moderate  and  sustained  operation  on  the  bowels.  Dose , Gm. 
33—64  (f&j-ij),  repeated,  if  necessary,  in  three  or  four  hours. 

» 

INFUSUM  ROS.ZE  ACIDUM,  Ur.— Acid  Infusion  of  Rose. 

Infusion  rosse  compositum,  U.  S.,  1870. — Compound  infusion  of  rose,  E. ; Tisane  de  rose 
composee , Fr. ; Saurer  Rosenaufguss , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Dried  Red  Rose  Petals,  broken  up,  4 ounce ; Diluted  Sul- 
phuric Acid,  1 fluidrachm  ; Boiling  Distilled  Water,  10  fluidounces.  Infuse  in  a covered 
vessel  for  thirty  minutes,  and  strain. — Br. 

The  U.  S.  P.  of  1870  ordered  red  rose  ^ troyounce ; diluted  sulphuric  acid  3 fluid- 
drachms;  sugar  li  troyounces ; boiling  water  2J  pints. 

This  infusion  should  not  be  made  in  a metallic  vessel ; it  has  a fine  red  color  and 
agreeable  flavor. 

Uses. — The  compound  infusion  of  rose  is  employed  as  a coloring  and  flavoring  in- 
gredient of  mixtures,  and  as  an  excipient  and  solvent  for  quinine  sulphate  and  magne- 
sium sulphate,  whose  bitterness  it  partially  covers.  It  forms  an  agreeable  gargle  for 
inflamed  and  ulcerated  states  of  the  mouth  and  fauces , and  may  be  used  to  moderate 
profuse  sweats.  Its  virtues  are  largely  due  to  the  sulphuric  acid  it  contains.  Dose, 
Gm.  64-128  (fgij-iv). 

INFUSUM  SENEGiE,  Br. — Infusion  of  Senega. 

Tisane  de  polygale  de  Virginie,  Fr. ; Senega- Avfguss,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Senega-root,  in  No.  20  powder,  % ounce ; Boiling  Distilled 
Water,  10  fluidounces.  Infuse  in  a covered  vessel  for  thirty  minutes,  and  strain. — Br. 

Uses. — This  preparation  is  supposed  to  possess  certain  advantages  over  the  decoction 
of  seneka  ( U.  S.  P.  1870),  which  was  originally  prescribed,  and  continues  to  be  pre- 
ferred in  this  country  ; but  as  the  senegin  is  not  altered  by  the  heat  of  boiling  water,  it 
is  probable  that  the  decoction  extracts  a larger  proportion  of  it  than  infusion  does.  Dose, 
Gm.  32-64  (fgj-ij). 

INFUSUM  SENN^E  COMPOSITUM,  77.  8.,  JP.  G.- Compound  Infusion 

of  Senna. 

Infusum  sennse , Br. — Infusion  of  senna,  Blach  Draught,  E. ; Tisane  de  sene  composee, 
Fr. ; Senna- Aufguss,  G. 

Preparation. — Senna,  60  Gm.  ; Manna,  120  Gm. ; Magnesium  Sulphate,  120  Gm. ; 
Fennel,  bruised,  20  Gm. ; Boiling  Water,  800  Cc. ; Water,  a sufficient  quantity  to  make 
1000  Cc.  Upon  the  senna  and  fennel,  contained  in  a suitable  vessel,  pour  the  boiling 
water,  and  macerate  until  the  mixture  is  cold.  Then  strain  with  expression,  dissolve  in 
the  infusion  the  magnesium  sulphate  and  manna,  and  strain  again.  Lastly,  add  enough 
water  through  the  strainer  containing  the  senna  and  fennel  to  make  the  infusion  measure 
1000  Cc. — JJ.  S. 

To  make  1 pint  of  the  infusion  445  grains  of  senna  and  148  grains  of  fennel  should 
be  macerated  with  13  fluidounces  of  boiling  water  until  cold  ; after  expression  and  strain- 
ing 890  grains  each  of  manna  and  magnesium  sulphate  should  be  dissolved  in  the  infu- 
sion and  enough  water  added  to  make  the  liquid  measure  16  fluidounces. 

Take  of  senna  1 ounce  ; ginger,  sliced,  28  grains  ; boiling  distilled  water  10  fluidounces. 
Infuse  in  a covered  vessel  for  thirty  minutes,  and  strain. — Br. 

The  first  formula  yields  a preparation  which  is  equivalent  to  the  blade  draught  of  Brit- 
ish pharmacy,  and  is  recognized  as  such  by  the  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia.  The  second  formula 
may  be  regarded  as  yielding  a simple  senna  infusion,  containing  merely  a corrective. 
Long-continued  contact  with  hot  water  appears  to  increase  the  tendency  of  the  senna  to 


874 


INFUSUM  SERPENT  A RITE.  - INF  US  UM  VALERIANAE. 


produce  griping,  particularly  if  digestion  be  resorted  to.  If  the  leaves  have  been  cut  or 
bruised,  digestion  for  not  over  ten  minutes  will  yield  an  active  infusion.  The  flavor 
being  a matter  of  taste,  the  selection  of  aromatics  had  probably  best  be  left  to  the 
physician 

Mistura  senna;  composita,  Br. ; Potio  purgans  anglorum,  s.  Potio  nigra.  By 
these  titles  black  draught  is  sometimes  prescribed,  which  in  Great  Britain  is  made  by  dis- 
solving 4 ounces  of  magnesium  sulphate  in  15  fluidounces  of  infusion  of  senna,  and 
adding  1 fluidounce  of  liquid  extract  of  liquorice,  2J  fluidounces  of  tincture  of  senna, 
and  1J  fluidounces  of  compound  tincture  of  cardamoms. 

Potion  purgative,  Medecine  noir,  F.  Cod.  Senna  10  Gm. ; rhubarb  5 Gm. ; boiling 
water  120  Gm. ; infuse  for  thirty  minutes,  express,  and  dissolve  sodium  sulphate  15  Gm. 
and  manna  60  Gm. 

Tisane  royale,  F.  Cod.  Senna,  sodium  sulphate,  and  fresh  parsley-leaves,  each  16 
Gm.  ; anise  and  coriander,  each  5 Gm. ; 1 lemon,  sliced  ; cold  water,  1000  Gm. ; macerate 
for  twenty-four  hours. 

Infusum  senna:  COMPOSITUM,  P.  G. , also  known  as  Aqua  (s.  Potio)  laxativa  Viennensis 
— Vienna  draught,  E. ; Eau  laxative  de  Vienne,  Fr.  ; Wiener  Trank,  G. — is  made  by 
macerating  5 parts  of  cut  senna  with  35  parts  of  boiling  water,  and  exposing  it  to  the 
heat  of  a steam-bath  for  five  minutes;  when  cold  the  liquid  is  expressed,  and  5 parts  of 
sodium  and  potassium  tartrate  and  15  parts  of  manna  are  dissolved  in  it;  after  straining 
it  should  weigh  50  parts. 

Uses. — The  fennel-seed  or  other  carminative  in  the  official  and  analogous  prepara- 
tions lessens  the  tendency  of  the  senna  to  gripe.  If  the  infusion  is  allowed  to  macerate 
too  long  this  tendency  is  increased.  It  is  a very  thorough  purgative,  and  should  be 
given  in  doses  of  from  Gm.  64-128  (fgij-iv)  every  hour,  or  at  longer  intervals,  until  it 
begins  to  operate. 

INFUSUM  SERPENT ARIAE,  Br. — Infusion  of  Serpentary. 

Tisane  de  serpentaire , Fr.  ; Schlangenwurzel-Aufguss,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Serpentary-rhizome,  in  No.  20  powder,  bruised,  \ oz. ; 
Boiling  Distilled  Water  10  fl.  oz.  Infuse  in  a covered  vessel  for  thirty  minutes,  and 
strain. — Br. 

The  infusion  recognized  under  the  same  name  by  the  U.  S.  P.  1870  was  slightly 
stronger,  and  contained  15  grains  of  serpentaria  to  the  fluidounce. 

Uses. — This  preparation  is  preferable  to  the  fluid  extract  and  to  the  tincture  of  ser- 
pentaria. Its  uses  are  fully  detailed  under  Serpentaria.  Dose,  Gm.  32-53  (f^i-ii) 
every  two  or  three  hours  in  typhoid  conditions. 

INFUSUM  UVAE  URSI,  Br.— Infusion  of  Bearberry. 

Tisane  d ’ uva  ursi , Fr. ; Bdrentraubenblatter-Aufguss , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Bearberry-leaves,  bruised,  i ounce  ; Boiling  Distilled  Water 
10  fluidounces.  Infuse  in  a covered  vessel  for  1 hour,  and  strain, — Br. 

The  medicinal  principles  of  uva  ursi  are  not  volatile  or  decomposed  by  boiling  water ; 
a decoction  may  therefore  be  prepared. 

Uses. — This  is  a more  convenient  form  than  the  decoction  for  extemporaneous  use, 
and  is  perhaps  sufficiently  active,  since  it  is  certain  that  the  amount  of  tannic  and  gallic 
acids  which  can  be  profitably  absorbed  from  the  stomach  is  not  unlimited.  Dose,  Gm. 
32-64  (f^i-ii). 


INFUSUM  VALERIANAE,  Br. — Infusion  of  Valerian. 

Tisane  de  valeriane , Fr. ; Baldrian- Au/guss,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Valerian-rhizome,  bruised,  I ounce;  Boiling  Distilled  Water 
10  fluidounces.  Infuse  in  a covered  vessel  for  one  hour,  and  strain. — Br. 

Infusion  of  valerian,  U.  S.  P.  1870,  represented  15  grains  of  the  root  in  the  fluidounce, 
but  made  by  the  present  general  formula  it  contains  23  grains. 

Uses. — Although  partially  superseded  by  the  more  convenient  fluid  extract  and 
tinctures,  the  infusion  of  valerian  is,  nevertheless,  an  efficient  preparation,  particularly 
where  the  medicine  be  continuously  given.  Dose,  Gm.64  (fgii). 


INJECTIO  APOMORPHINjE  HYPODERMICA.— INULA . 


875 


INJECTIO  APOMORPHINiE  HYPODERMICA.— Br. 

Hypodermic  injection  of  apomorphine , E. ; Ejection  hypodermique  d'  apomorphine , Fr. ; 
Subcutane  Apomorphin-Einspritzung , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Apomorphine  Hydrochlorate,  2 grains;  Camphor  water,  100 
minims.  Dissolve  and  filter.  The  solution  should  be  made  as  required  for  use.  Dose , 
by  subcutaneous  injection,  2-8  minims,  representing  about  gr.  of  the  salt. 

INJECTIO  ERGOTINI  HYPODERMICA.— Br. 

Hypodermic  injection  of  ergotin , E. ; Injection  hypodermique  d'ergotine,  Fr. ; Subcutane 
Ergotin-Einspritzung , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Ergotin  1 part  (or  100  grains)  ; Camphor  water  2 fluid 
parts  (or  200  fluid  grains).  Dissolve  by  stirring  them  together.  The  solution  should 
be  made  as  required  for  use.  Dose,  by  subcutaneous  injection,  3-10  minims,  representing 
about  1-3?  grains  of  ergotin. 

INJECTIO  MORPHINE  HYPODERMICA.— Br. 

Hypodermic  injection  of  morphia,  E.  ; Injection  hypodermique  de  morphine , Fr.  ; Subcu- 
tane Morphin-Einspritzung , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Morphine  Hydrochlorate,  92  grains  ; Solution  of  Ammonia- 
Acetic  Acid,  Distilled  Water,  of  each  a sufficiency.  Dissolve  the  morphine  hydrochlorate 
in  2 ounces  of  distilled  water,  aiding  the  solution  by  a gentle  heat;  then  add  solution 
of  ammonia,  so  as  to  precipitate  the  morphia  and  render  the  liquid  slightly  alkaline ; 
allow  it  to  cool ; collect  the  precipitate  on  a filter,  wash  it  with  distilled  water,  and  allow 
it  to  drain ; then  transfer  the  morphia  to  a small  porcelain  dish  with  about  an  ounce  of 
distilled  water,  apply  a gentle  heat,  and  carefully  add  acetic  acid  until  the  morphia  is 
dissolved  and  a very  slightly  acid  solution  is  formed.  Add  now  sufficient  distilled  water 
to  make  the  solution  measure  exactly  2 fluidounces.  Filter,  and  preserve  the  product  in 
a stoppered  bottle  excluded  from  the  light. — Br. 

The  object  of  the  above  process  is  the  preparation  of  morphine  acetate  in  solution  of 
definite  strength,  so  that  each  fluidrachm  shall  contain  6 grains  of  that  salt.  On  keeping, 
the  solution  decomposes,  acquiring  a brown  color  and  slowly  separating  morphia,  the 
crystals  being  very  long  if  the  solution  remain  undisturbed.  To  prevent  this  decomposi- 
tion, Prof.  C.  Johnston  (1873)  recommended  sulphurous  acid,  5 drops  of  which  were 
found  by  Jennings  sufficient  to  protect  a fluidounce.  Squibb  (1873)  observed  that  4 per 
cent,  of  pure  carbolic  acid  would  preserve  such  solutions,  and  Limousin  (1876)  has 
obtained  satisfactory  results  by  using  per  cent  of  salicylic  acid. 

Uses. — The  average  hypodermic  dose  of  this  preparation  is  Gm.  0.06-0.40,  (n^i— vi) 
equal  to  from  grain  to  ? grain  or  Gm.  0.005-1.003  of  the  salt. 


INULA,  Z7.  S. — Elecampane. 

Radix  helenii , s.  inulse,  s.  enulse. — Aunee  officinale,  Grande  aunee , Fr.  Cod.  ; Elenio , It. ; 
Alantwurzel,  Helenenwurzel,  G. ; Enula , Sp. 

The  root  of  Inula  (Corvisartia,  Merat)  Helenium,  Linnt.  Woodville,  Med.  Bot.,  t.  26; 
Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  150. 

Nat.  Ord. — Compositae,  Inuloideae. 

Origin. — Elecampane  is  a native  of  Central  Asia  and  Southern  Siberia,  and  is  found 
westward  to  Southern  and  Central  Europe.  It  is  not  unfrequently  cultivated,  and  has  in 

many  places  escaped  from  gardens  and  become  natural- 
ized. In  the  United  States  it  grows  spontaneously 
along  roadsides  and  in  pastures  from  New  England 
south  to  the  mountains  of  North  Carolina  and  west- 
ward to  Illinois.  It  has  a thick,  solid  stem  0.9  to  1.8 
M.  (3-6  feet)  high,  large  radical  leaves  decurrent  on 
the  long  petioles,  and  sessile  clasping  stem-leaves,  all 
being  acute,  somewhat  toothed,  and  grayish-hairy  on 
the  lower  surface.  The  large  flower-heads  are  termi- 
nal, and  have  a loosely-imbricated  involucre,  with  an 
outer  series  of  foliaceous  ovate  bracts ; the  numerous 


Fig.  159. 


Elecampane-root:  transverse  sections. 


876 


INULA. 


yellow  pistillate  ray-florets  are  ligulate,  linear,  and  three-toothed,  and  the  yellow  disk- 
florets  tubular  and  five-toothed.  The  akenes  are  smooth,  pale-brown,  four-sided,  and 
crowned  with  a hairy  pappus.  The  root  is  collected  in  the  fall  of  the  second  or  the 
spring  of  the  third  year. 

Description. — The  root  is  about  15  Cm.  (6  inches)  long  and  25  to  50  Mm.  (1-2 
inches)  thick,  divided  below  into  branches  15  to  30  Cm.  (6-12  inches)  long  and  12  to  25 
Mm.  (J-l  inch)  thick,  very  fleshy  ; in  commerce  usually  sliced  either  longitudinally  or 
transversely.  The  longitudinal  slices  have  the  bark  overlapping;  the  transverse  slices 
are  concave,  somewhat  radially  striate ; externally  irregularly  wrinkled  and  brownish,, 
internally  white  when  fresh ; grayish  after  drying,  of  a peculiar  aromatic  odor  and  am 
aromatic,  bitterish,  and  pungent  taste.  The  root  is  hygroscopic  and  flexible  in  damp 
weather,  but  when  dry  breaks  with  a short  fracture.  The  bark  is  3 Mm.  (£  inch)  and 
more  thick,  the  inner  portion  radiate  near  the  cambium-line ; the  meditullium  has  small 
vascular  bundles  and  broad  medullary  rays,  and  all  parts  of  the  root  are  dotted  with 
shining  yellowish-brown  resin-cells. 

Constituents. — Elecampane  contains  a little  volatile  oil , inula  or  alant  camphor y 
some  acrid  resin , a hitter  principle  not  known  as  yet  in  the  isolated  state,  waxy  matter , 
inulin , etc.  On  investigating  the  body  formerly  known  as  helenin  and  elecampane  cam- 
phor, crystallizing  from  the  concentrated  tincture  mixed  with  water,  Kallen  (1873)  iso- 
lated helenin , 06H80,  which  is  insipid,  almost  insoluble  in  water,  crystallizes  in  needles, 
fuses  at  110°  C.  (230°  F.),  and  is  by  nitric  acid  converted  into  oxalic  acid  and  a resin- 
ous body.  The  volatile  oil  of  elecampane  was  by  Kallen  (1876)  separated  into  needles 
of  alantic  anhydride , C15H20O2,  and  inulol  or  alantol , C10H16O,  which  is  a yellowish  liquid 
having  the  odor  of  peppermint,  an  aromatic  taste,  and  boiling  near  200°  C.  (392°  F.). 
Inulin,  C12H20Oio,  is  contained  in  biennial  and  perennial  Composite,  and  is  obtained  by 
forcibly  expressing  the  grated  juicy  roots,  when  a portion  will  deposit  on  standing,  and 
the  remainder  may  be  precipitated  by  alcohol.  Kiliani  (1881)  recommends  boiling  the 
roots  with  water  containing  sodium  carbonate;  the  liquid  is  cooled  by  a freezing  mixture, 
and  the  precipitate  repeatedly  dissolved  in  hot  water  and  reprecipitated  by  cooling.  The 
autumn  roots  contain  the  largest  percentage  (elecampane  44  per  cent.)  of  inulin,  which 
by  the  following  spring  is  to  a considerable  extent  changed  into  mucilage,  sugar,  and 
levulin,  and  in  some  cases  to  glucosides.  Inulin  is  a fine  white  hygroscopic  powder, 
tasteless  and  inodorous,  insoluble  in  alcohol,  slightly  soluble  in  cold  water,  more  so  in 
hot  water,  and  then  partly  altered,  but  mostly  reprecipitated  on  cooling ; on  the  slow 
evaporation  of  its  aqueous  solution  it  may  be  obtained  in  crystalline  spheres,  and  by 
hydration  it  is  converted  into  gum-like  and  horny  modifications.  It  appears  to  be  the 
anhydride  of  levulose,  its  formula  being  (C6H10O5)6H2O,  but  it  does  not  reduce  Fehling’s 
solution.  Heated  with  water  in  sealed  tubes,  it  yields  levulose ; with  hot  baryta-water 
lactic  acid  is  formed ; diluted  nitric  acid  oxidizes  it  to  formic,  oxalic,  racemic,  glycollic, 
and  probably  glyoxylic  acids.  Inulin  differs  from  starch  by  the  absence  of  concentric 
layers,  does  not  yield  a jelly  with  water,  and  it  is  colored  yellow  (not  blue)  by  iodine. 
(Two  monographs  on  inulin  were  published  in  1870 — one  by  Prof.  Dragendorff,  the  other 
by  Dr.  K.  Prantl.) 

Allied  Drugs. — Inula  (Conyza,  Linne)  squarrosa,  Bernhardt , s.  I.  Conyza,  De  Candolle; 
Conyze,  Fr. ; D'urrwurz,  G. — Leaves  ovate,  crenate,  tomentose,  and  rugose ; flower-heads  with 
an  imbricate  involucre  and  tubular  three-cleft  ray-florets ; odor  unpleasant ; taste  bitter.  The 
herb  is  used  in  Southern  Europe  as  an  emmenagogue  and  diuretic,  and,  when  burned,  for 
destroying  insects. 

Pulicaria  (Inula,  Linn6)  dysenterica,  Gcertner ; Fleawort,  E. ; Pulicaire,  Fr. ; Flohkraut, 
G. — Stem  and  leaves  woolly  or  tomentose  ; involucral  scales  narrow  ; ray-florets  band-like  ; pap- 
pus double  : the  outer  row  short,  crown-like  ; the  inner  row  bristly.  Used  like  the  preceding. 

Cryptochcetis  andicola,  Raim.,  grows  in  the  Andes  near  the  snow-line,  and  is  known  as 
huamanripa.  Leaves  oblong  or  lanceolate,  serrate,  narrowed  into  a petiole ; involucre  with 
about  24  scales,  having  a membranous  margin.  Bignon  (1886)  noticed  the  presence  of  an  aro- 
matic resin  and  of  considerable  volatile  oil. 

Carlina  acaulis,  Linn6  (tribe  Cynaroidese)  ; Carline  thistle,  E.;  Chardon  dore,  Carline,  Fr. ; 
Eberwurz,  G. — A perennial  plant  of  Middle  Europe.  The  root,  radix  carlince , is  long,  fleshy, 
about  25  Mm.  (1  inch)  thick,  usually  cut  lengthwise,  deeply  wrinkled,  and  has  a rather  thin 
light-brown  bark  and  a grayish  meditullium,  with  broad  medullary  rays.  Rather  large  brown- 
red  resin-cells  are  found  in  all  parts  of  the  parenchyma.  It  has  a penetrating,  unpleasant  odor 
and  a sweetish,  burning,  and  bitter  taste ; its  principal  constituents  are  a little  resin  and  a vol- 
atile oil,  to  which  the  odor  and  taste  are  due. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparation. — Extractum  helenii. — Extract  of  elecampane, 


IODOFORMUM. 


877 


E. ; Extrait  d’aunee,  Fr.  Cod. — It  is  made  by  extracting  the  cut  root  with  cold  dis- 
tilled water. 

Action  and  Uses. — Inula  was  one  of  the  most  famous  of  ancient  medicines, 
and  continued  in  vogue  until  very  recent  times.  It  owed  this  reputation  to  its  stim- 
ulant qualities.  Even  in  the  Hippocratic  writings  it  is  stated  to  be  a stimulant  of 
the  brain,  the  stomach,  the  kidneys,  and  the  uterus — qualities  which  continued  to  be 
ascribed  to  it — as  well  as  to  exert  a rubefacient  action  upon  the  skin.  It  had  a special 
reputation  in  all  pulmonary  affections  and  as  a topical  application  in  sciatica,  gout,  gravel, 
facial  neuralgia,  etc.  One  of  its  chief  constituents,  inulin,  is  probably  quite  negative,  and 
whatever  virtues  the  plant  possesses  must  be  due  to  the  elecampane  camphor  which  it 
contains  in  small  proportion,  a very  minute  quantity  of  volatile  oil,  and  the  bitter  extrac- 
tive, which  it  holds  in  as  large  a proportion  as  of  inulin.  These  elements  are  apparently 
too  insignificant  to  justify  the  ancient  repute  of  elecampane.  It  continues  to  be  used  as 
a domestic  remedy,  rather  than  by  physicians,  in  the  treatment  of  chronic  bronchitis , dys- 
pepsia, vesical  catarrh , amenorrhcea  and  other  menstrual  disorders,  and  internally  in 
chronic  eruptions  of  the  skin.  Korab  claims  for  helenin  a power  of  destroying  bacilli, 
and  especially  those  of  tubercle  (Bull,  de  Therap.,  ciii.  271).  The  same  has  been  affirmed 
by  Blocq  (Med.  News , xliii.  655)  and  by  Baeza  (Med.  Record ’,  xxvii.  377).  Inulin  has 
been  employed  in  the  treatment  of  diphtheria  (Therap.  Gaz.,  x.  314),  and  of  whooping 
tough,  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.01  (gr.  4)  ten  times  a day.  Inula  is  preserved  as  a candy, 
like  calamus,  and  is  used  to  flavor  the  alcoholic  beverage  absinthe.  Its  retention  in  the 
United  States  Pharmacopoeia  seems  quite  superfluous.  Elecampane  is  generally  admin- 
istered in  a decoction  prepared  by  boiling  Gm.  16  in  Gm.  500  (^ss  in  Oj)  of  water,  and 
’which  may  be  given  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  64  (f§ij,  or  more).  Some  German  writers  direct 
from  5 to  15  parts  of  elecampane  to  100  parts  of  hot  water. 

Carlina  acaulis  had  formerly  a reputation  not  inferior  to  that  of  inula  for  very  sim- 
ilar virtues.  It  was  held  to  be  powerfully  diaphoretic  or  diuretic,  according  to  the  man- 
ner of  its  administration,  and  in  large  doses  purgative.  It  was  prescribed  in  typhoid 
states  of  acute  diseases,  in  amenorrhcea,  to  overcome  sexual  impotence , and  relieve  local 
paralysis , especially  of  the  tongue.  It  was  administered  in  powder  in  doses  of  from  Gm. 
0.60  to  1.30  (gr.  x-xx),  in  decoction,  etc. 

IODOFORMUM,  U.  S.,  Br.,  F.  Cod.— Iodoform. 

lodoformium,  P.  G. — Carboneum  jodatum , loduretum  carbonici,  Triiodomethane,  Iodure 
de  formyle,  Iodo forme,  Fr. ; Jodoform,  G. 

Formula  CHI3.  Molecular  weight  392.56. 

Iodoform  should  be  kept  in  well-stoppered  bottles  in  a cool  and  dark  place. 

Origin. — Iodoform  was  discovered  by  Serullas  in  1822,  and  its  composition  was 
determined  by  Dumas  in  1834.  It  is  formed  by  the  action  of  iodine  in  the  presence  of 
fixed  alkalies  or  alkali  carbonates  upon  alcohol,  acetic  and  other  easily-saponifiable  ethers, 
aldehyde,  acetone,  amylene,  butyl,  capryl,  and  propyl  alcohols,  kinic,  meconic,  and  lactic 
acids,  oil  of  turpentine,  and  some  other  compounds  (Lieben,  1870).  Millon  (1846)  ascer- 
tained that  it  is  also  produced,  to  a limited  extent,  by  the  action  of  the  same  agents, 
aided  by  heat,  upon  aqueous  solutions  of  sugars,  dextrin,  and  gum,  and  upon  alkaline 
solutions  of  albumen,  fibrin,  casein,  and  other  proteids.  Pure  ethyl  ether,  ethyl  iodide, 
and  allied  compounds,  methyl  and  amyl  alcohol,  chloral,  chloroform,  the  fruit  acids, 
lower  fatty  acids,  various  aromatic  acids,  glycerin,  and  other  compounds,  according  to 
Lieben,  do  not  yield  iodoform  under  the  conditions  mentioned  above. 

Preparation. — Wilder  (1875)  recommends  Bouchardat’s  process  as  an  easy  one,  and 
Filhol’s  as  one  giving  a large  yield.  By  following  the  former,  100  parts  iodine,  100 
potasssium  bicarbonate,  1200  water,  and  250  alcohol  are  mixed  in  a flask  with  a long  neck 
and  slowly  heated  to  between  60°  and  80°  C.  (140°  and  176°  F.)  until  the  color  has  dis- 
appeared, when  25,  20,  and  10  parts  of  iodine  are  to  be  added,  waiting  after  each  addition 
until  the  iodine  color  has  disappeared,  and  adding  at  the  close,  if  necessary,  a little  potassa ; 
after  setting  aside  for  twenty-four  hours  the  crystals  are  collected  upon  a filter.  About 
one-third  of  the  iodine  is  recovered  as  iodoform,  the  remainder  appearing  in  the  mother- 
liquor  chiefly  as  potassium  iodide,  and  may  be  obtained  by  supersaturating  with  sulphuric, 
and  then  adding  a little  nitric  acid. 

In  Filhol’s  process  this  iodine  is  utilized  by  liberating  it  by  means  of  chlorine  and  con- 
verting it  into  iodoform.  The  proportions  recommended  are  2 parts  of  crystallized  sodium 
carbonate,  10  of  water,  and  1 of  alcohol,  warmed  as  before ; 1 part  of  iodine  is  added  in 


878 


IODOFORMUM. 


small  portions,  and  after  cooling  the  crystals  are  collected.  The  filtrate  is  again  warmed, 
2 parts  of  sodium  carbonate  are  added,  and  a rapid  current  of  chlorine  gas  is  passed 
through  the  liquid  as  long  as  iodoform  is  separated,  which  is  again  collected,  while  the 
filtrate  may  be  made  to  yield  a little  more  iodoform  by  repeating  the  treatment.  As  much 
as  72  per  cent,  of  crystals  may  thus  be  obtained. 

Rother  (1873)  recommended  acidulating  the  mother-liquid  with  hydrochloric  acid,  add- 
ing some  potassium  dichromate  to  generate  chlorine,  then  potassium  carbonate  to  render 
the  liquid  alkaline,  and  some  iodine  and  alcohol,  and  finally  warming  the  mixture.  The 
process  will  thus  be  continuous  until  the  accumulation  of  the  salts  becomes  too  great. 
More  recently  (1882)  he  recommended  bromine  in  place  of  chlorine. 

The  production  of  iodoform  may  be  explained  by  the  simultaneous  formation  of  potas- 
sium iodide,  water,  and  carbon  dioxide,  as  follows  : C2H60  -{-  4I2  -f-  2KHC03  yields  2CHI3 
-j-  2KI  + 3H20  + 2C02.  The  reaction,  however,  is  never  so  simple,  potassium  formate 
being  perhaps  always  one  of  the  products,  in  which  case  the  reaction,  according  to  Liebig, 
is  thus  explained:  C2H60  + 4I2  + 6KHC03  yields  CHI3  + 5KI  -j-  KCHO*  + 5H20 
--j-  6C02.  At  the  same  time  other  reactions  take  place — one  resulting  in  the  formation  of 
acetic  ether,  another  in  the  production  of  ethyl  iodide  and  hydriodic  acid  ; and  from  great 
variations  of  the  yield  observed  it  is  evident  that  the  result  is  greatly  influenced  by  the 
relative  proportion  of  the  material  and  the  temperature. 

In  1889  Sulliot  and  Raynaud  devised  a process  for  the  preparation  of  iodoform  direct 
from  the  ash  of  sea-weed  (kelp),  and  this  is  now  largely  used  in  France.  The  ash  is 
lixiviated,  the  sulphides  and  sulphites  entering  into  solution  are  removed,  and  the  amount 
of  iodine  present  then  determined  ; from  the  latter  the  necessary  quantity  of  the  other  ingre- 
dients is  calculated,  thus  a solution  of  50  parts  of  sodium  or  potassium  iodide  is  prepared, 
and  to  it  are  added  6 parts  of  acetone  and  two  parts  of  caustic  soda  in  1000  to  2000  parts 
of  water ; finally  a dilute  solution  of  sodium  hypochlorite  is  added,  drop  by  drop,  as 
long  as  iodoform  is  produced.  The  yield  is  about  the  theoretical  quantity  according  to 
the  following  equation  : 3NaI  -j-  3NaC10  -}-  C3H60  = CHI3  -j-  3NaCl  -f-  NaC2H302  -j- 
2NaOH.  Iodoform  thus  prepared  is  called  by  Casthelaz  “ absolute  iodoform  ” since  it  is 
obtained  in  a state  of  great  purity,  without  production  of  free  iodine  capable  of  giving 
rise  to  iodic  compounds. 

Iodoform  can  also  be  produced  by  subjecting  to  electrolysis  a solution  of  50  parts  of 
potassium  iodide  in  300  parts  of  water  and  30  parts  of  alcohol,  while  a constant  current 
of  carbon  dioxide  is  led  into  the  liquid.  The  iodoform  will  separate  as  a crystalline 
powder.  A patent  was  granted  for  this  process  in  Germany  in  1884. 

Properties. — Iodoform  is  in  small,  lemon-yellow,  scale-like,  hexagonal  crystals,  which 
have  a pearly  lustre,  are  somewhat  fatty  to  the  touch,  and  have  a strong  saffron-like  odor 
and  a peculiar  sweetish  and  unpleasantly  iodine-like  taste.  It  is  nearly  insoluble  in  water, 
but  by  heating  it  with  water  for  about  thirty  minutes  to  between  80°  and  90°  C.  (176°  and 
194°  F.)  a permanent  yellow  solution  is  obtained,  which,  according  to  Schadewald  (1882), 
contains  between  .5  and  .7  per  cent,  of  iodine.  Iodoform  dissolves  in  52  parts  ( U.  S.)t 
50  parts  (P.  G .),  of  alcohol  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  in  12  parts  ( U.  S.),  about  10  parts  (P.  G.), 
of  boiling  alcohol,  in  5.2  parts  (17.  S.,  P.  G)  of  ether,  and,  according  to  Vulpius  (1881), 
in  100  parts  of  petroleum  benzin,  in  67  parts  of  benzene,  in  25  parts  of  oil  of  turpentine, 
in  14.3  parts  of  oil  of  lavender,  in  12.5  parts  of  oil  of  cloves,  in  11  parts  of  oil  of  fennel, 
lemon,  or  rosemary,  in  7 parts  of  oil  of  cinnamon,  and  in  6 parts  of  oil  of  caraway;  it  is 
readily  soluble  in  chloroform,  carbon  disulphide,  and  fixed  oils ; the  solutions  have  a neu- 
tral reaction  to  test-paper,  but  when  exposed  to  sunlight  liberate  iodine.  Iodoform  has 
the  spec.  grav.  2.0,  volatilizes  slowly  on  exposure  at  ordinary  temperatures,  fuses  at  about 
115°  C.  (239°  F.)  to  a brown  liquid,  and  sublimes  partly  unaltered,  but  at  a higher  heat 
is  mostly  decomposed  into  iodine  and  hydriodic  acid,  with  a residue  of  glossy  charcoal, 
which  finally  burns  without  leaving  any  residue.  Heated  with  water,  it  volatilizes  with 
the  vapors  without  decomposition  ; but  when  boiled  with  potassa  solution  a portion  of  it 
is  decomposed,  yielding  potassium  formate  and  iodide,  and  when  distilled  with  alcoholic 
solution  of  potassa  an  oily  liquid  of  an  ethereal  odor  and  containing  iodine  is  obtained 
in  the  distillate ; both  the  aqueous  and  alcoholic  solutions  thus  obtained  on  the  addition 
of  nitric  acid  liberate  iodine,  recognizable  by  the  blue  color  produced  with  starch-paste. 

Iodoform  contains  96.69  per  cent,  of  its  weight  of  iodine,  and  the  amount  present  in 
any  of  its  preparations  may  be  estimated  gravimetrically  with  silver  nitrate  solution, 
insoluble  silver  iodide  being  formed:  CHT3+3AgN03+H20=3AgI+3HN03-{-C0— 

392.56  grains  of  iodoform  requiring  508.65  grains  of  silver  nitrate  for  complete  decompo- 
sition and  yielding  702.57  grains  of  silver  iodide. 


IODOFORMUM. 


879 


The  odor  of  iodoform  in  mixtures  and  ointments  is  unpleasant,  and  may  be  disguised 
by  the  addition  to  1 ounce  of  from  3 to  5 drops  of  oil  of  peppermint ; Peru  balsam,  cou- 
marin,  the  oils  of  fennel,  anise,  and  others,  have  also  been  recommended.  The  odor 
adheres  persistently  to  the  vessels  in  which  preparations  of  iodoform  have  been  made, 
and  may  be  removed  by  a few  drops  of  oil  of  turpentine,  followed  by  soap  and  water. 

Impurities  are  not  likely  to  be  present ; the  physical  properties,  and  particularly  its 
odor,  behavior  to  solvents,  neutral  reaction,  and  complete  volatility,  determine  the  absence 
of  impurities  which  might  result  from  the  process  of  manufacture.  Fixed  impurities 
would  be  left  behind  on  heating  a portion  upon  platinum-foil  until  the  charcoal  has  been 
consumed.  “If  2 Gm.  of  iodoform  be  thoroughly  shaken  with  10  Cc.  of  water,  the 
filtrate  should  be  colorless  and  free  from  bitter  taste  (absence  of  soluble  yellow  coloring 
matters,  picric  acid,  etc.),  should  not  affect  the  color  of  litmus  paper  (absence  of  free 
acids),  and  remain  unaffected  by  silver  nitrate  test-solution  (absence  of  soluble  iodides.”) 
—IT.  S. 

Allied  Compounds. — 1.  Aristol.  Dithymoldiiodide,  Annidalin,  C20H24O2I2. — This  substitute 
for  iodoform  was  introduced  in  1889,  and  is  prepared  by  adding  to  a solution  of  600  Gm.  of 
iodine  and  900  Gm.  of  potassium  iodide  in  1000  Cc.  of  water  under  constant  stirring  at  15°-20° 
C.  (59°-68°  F.)  another  solution  made  of  500  Gm.  of  thymol  in  1000  Cc.  of  a 12-per-cent,  solu- 
tion of  sodium  hydroxide ; a copious  dark  brownish-red  precipitate  is  formed,  which  is  washed 
with  water  and  subsequently  dried  at  ordinary  temperature.  Aristol  is  an  amorphous,  almost 
tasteless  powder,  of  a slight  peculiar  iodine-like  odor,  insoluble  in  water  and  glycerin,  difficultly 
soluble  in  alcohol,  but  readily  soluble  in  ether,  collodion,  and  chloroform  ; it  is  also  taken  up  by 
fixed  oils,  petrolatum,  vaseline,  etc.,  but  is  not  soluble  in  solution  of  the  caustic  alkalies,  whether 
hot  or  cold.  Heat  and  light  decompose  aristol,  as  does  also  sulphuric  acid.  The  chief  value  of 
aristol  lies  in  the  large  percentage  (45.8)  of  iodine  present  and  the  absence  of  much  odor. 

2.  Europhen.  Diisobutylorthocresoliodide,  C22II2902I  = C4II9OCH3C6H3C6H2.C4H9CII3OI. — 
This  compound  also  belongs  to  the  class  of  iodoform  substitutes,  and  is  prepared  in  a manner 
analogous  to  aristol,  except  that  isobutylorthocresol  is  used  in-  place  of  thymol.  It  is  an  amor- 
phous yellow  powder,  of  a slightly  saffron-like  odor,  insoluble  in  water  and  glycerin,  but  readily 
soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  chloroform,  and  fixed  oils.  It  is  permanent  when  dry,  but  when  moist- 
ened with  water  splits  up  into  iodine  and  a new  soluble  iodine  compound  5 alkali  hydroxides 
and  carbonates  likewise  liberate  iodine.  When  heated  europhen  runs  together,  and  at  110°  C. 
(230°  F.)  forms  a clear  brown  liquid.  It  is  five  times  as  bulky  as  iodoform. 

The  substitution  of  carvacrol  for  thymol  in  the  manufacture  of  aristol  results  in  the  formation 
of  carvacrol  iodide,  C13II13OI,  a yellowish-brown  powder,  which  softens  at  50°  C.  (122°  F.),  and 
is  decomposed  at  temperatures  above  100°  C.  (212°  F.). 

3.  Antiseptol.  Cinchonine-iodosulphate.  Cinchonine  herapathite.  This  compound  was 
added  to  the  list  of  iodoform  substitutes  by  Yvon  in  1891.  It  is  prepared  by  adding  a solution 
of  25  Gm.  of  cinchonine  sulphate  in  2000  Cc.  of  water  to  a solution  of  10  Gm.  each  of  iodine 
and  potassium  iodide  in  water  5 the  resulting  precipitate  is  washed  with  water  and  dried  at  a 
moderate  heat.  Antiseptol  occurs  as  a light  powder  of  reddish-brown  color,  insoluble  in  water, 
but  soluble  in  alcohol  and  chloroform.  It  contains  about  50  per  cent,  of  iodine,  and  its  chem- 
ical formula  is  uncertain,  varying  with  the  mode  of  preparation. 

4.  Antiseptin.  Borothymol  zinc-iodide. — Although  claimed  by  the  originator,  Dr.  Radlauer, 
to  be  of  a definite  chemical  composition,  antiseptiri  has  been  shown  by  Goldmann  to  be  simply  a 
mixture  of  zinc  sulphate  85  parts,  zinc  iodide  2.5  parts,  thymol  2.5  parts,  and  boric  acid  10  parts. 

5.  Losophane.  Triiodometacresol,  C6HI3OII.CII3. — Introduced  in  1892.  It  is  prepared  by 
adding  an  aqueous  solution  of  iodine  and  potassium  iodide  slowly  and  under  constant  stirring  to 
a solution  of  orthooxyparatoluic  acid  in  sodium  bicarbonate  and  water ; after  twenty-four  hours 
the  triiodometacresol  will  have  separated,  and  may  be  washed  with  water  and  recrystallized 
from  alcohol.  Losophane  occurs  as  colorless,  odorless,  needle-shaped  crystals,  which  are  almost 
insoluble  in  water,  very  difficultly  in  alcohol,  but  readily  in  ether,  benzene,  and  chloroform,  and 
at  60°  C.  (140°  F.)  also  in  fixed  oils.  It  contains  78.39  per  cent,  of  iodine,  and  melts  at  121.5° 
C.  (250.7°  F.). 

6.  Iodol.  Tetraiodopyrrol,  C4I4N1I. — This  is  the  oldest  of  the  iodoform  substitutes,  having 
been  introduced  by  Ciamician  and  Silber  in  1885.  It  is  obtained  by  the  interaction  of  iodine 
and  pyrrol  in  alcoholic  solution  during  twenty-four  hours ; upon  the  addition  of  water  iodol  is 
separated  in  the  form  of  yellow  crystalline  flocculi.  In  place  of  alcohol,  methylic  alcohol  and 
other  liquids  can  be  used  as  solvents  for  the  iodine.  Iodol  may  also  be  obtained  by  following 
the  process  mentioned  under  Aristol-,  simply  using  pyrrol  in  place  of  thymol.  Pure  iodol  is  a 
pale-yellow,  bulky  powder,  more  or  less  crystalline,  which  should  be  free  from  odor  and  taste. 
It  is  practically  insoluble  in  water,  slightly  soluble  in  diluted  alcohol,  and  readily  soluble  in 
alcohol  (3  parts),  ether  (1  part),  and  fixed  oils  (15  parts);  the  alcoholic  solution  is  miscible  with 
glycerin.  When  heated,  iodol  remains  unaffected  up  to  100°  or  120°  C.  (212°-240°  F.),  but  at 
145°  C.  (293°  F.)  it  is  decomposed,  and  finally  burns  away  without  residue.  Iodol  contains 
88.97  per  cent,  of  iodine  ; it  has  been  used  internally  in  doses  of  8 to  15  grains,  two  or  four  times 
a day,  in  wafers,  but  is  usually  employed  either  as  a dusting-powder  or  in  the  form  of  iodol 
gauze  or  ointment,  and  is  believed  to  stimulate  granulation. 


880 


IODOFORMUM. 


7.  Sozoiodol.  Sozoiodolic  acid.  Diiodoparaphenylsulphonic  acid.  C6H2I20HS03H-|-3H20. 
This  acid  and  its  salts  have  been  especially  recommended  on  account  of  the  large  proportions  of 
iodine,  phenol,  and  sulphur  present.  It  is  prepared  by  heating  2 parts  of  phenol  and  1 part 
of  strong  sulphuric  acid  to  about  110°  C.  (230°  F.)  for  two  or  three  days,  whereby  paraphenyl- 
sulphonic  (sozonic)  acid  is  formed.  Any  excess  of  carbolic  acid  is  removed,  and  then  iodine  is 
added  to  form  sozo-iodolic  acid.  It  contains  about  54  per  cent,  of  iodine,  20  per  cent,  of  carbolic 
acid,  and  7 per  cent,  of  sulphur.  The  ammonium,  lead,  mercury,  potassium,  sodium,  and  zinc 
salts  of  this  acid  are  the  agents  mostly  employed,  being  recommended  as  substitutes  for  iodoform 
on  account  of  their  complete  lack  of  odor ; the  lithium,  aluminum,  and  magnesium  salts  have 
also  been  prepared.  The  sodium  sozoiodolate,  however,  is  most  preferred,  on  account  of  its 
ready  solubility  in  water  and  glycerin  (13-14  parts)  ; it  occurs  in  bright  prismatic  needle-shaped 
crystals.  A 3 to  10  per  cent,  solution  in  water  is  found  to  be  most  desirable. 

8.  Sozal  is  the  name  applied  to  the  aluminum  salt  of  sozonic  acid  (paraphenylsulphonic  acid), 
(which  see  above).  It  is  very  soluble  in  water  and  keeps  well.  It  occurs  in  crystals  with  an 
astringent  taste  and  slight  carbolic  odor,  and  has  been  recommended  for  surgical  dressings. 

9.  Sulphaminol.  Thioxydiphenylamine.  C12H9OS2N. — This  compound  has  been  especially 
recommended  on  account  of  the  entire  absence  of  odor  and  taste,  although  it  is  insoluble  in  water- 
it  is  supposed  to  be  decomposed  into  carbolic  acid  and  sulphur  compounds  by  the  digestive 
fluids.  Sulphaminol  is  prepared  as  follows : Metaoxydiphenylamine  is  boiled  with  sodium 
hydroxide  solution  and  sulphur ; the  filtered  solution  is  treated  with  ammonium  chloride,  yield- 
ing sodium  chloride  in  solution,  and  a yellow  precipitate  of  sulphaminol  which  does  not  combine 
with  ammonia,  and  which  is  washed  with  water  and  dried.  It  is  a yellow  powder,  insoluble  in 
water,  readily  soluble  in  alkalies,  alcohol,  and  glacial  acetic  acid.  When  heated  it  turns  brown 
and  softens,  melting  at  155°  C.  (311°  F.).  Under  the  names  Sulphaminol — menthol,  S.  creosote, 
S.  guaiacol  and  S.  eucalyptol  solutions  of  the  compound  in  the  different  liquids  have  been 
introduced  to  the  medical  profession,  especially  for  use  in  laryngeal  tuberculosis. 

10.  Thiophene.  C4II4S. — This  hydro-carbon  was  discovered  in  1883  by  V.  Meyer  ; it  occurs  in 
all  commercial  benzenes,  and  is  isolated  by  active  agitation  with  concentrated  sulphuric  acid : it 
is  a colorless,  mobile,  oily  liquid,  with  a feeble  odor,  boiling  at  84°  C.  (183.2°  F.),  and  not 
miscible  with  water.  Thiophene  itself  has  not  been  used  in  medicine,  but  two  of  its  compounds 
have  been  successfully  employed  in  Europe.  Thiophene  diiodide,  04H2I2S,  has  been  used  as  a 
substitute  for  iodoform  in  many  surgical  cases ; it  occurs  in  crystalline  plates,  is  insoluble  in 
water,  but  soluble  in  the  other  usual  solvents ; it  contains  about  9.5  per  cent,  of  sulphur,  melts 
at  40.5°  C.,  and  is  volatile  at  ordinary  temperatures.  Sodium  thiophene  sulphonate,  C4H3SNaS 
03,  is  a white  crystalline  powder,  containing  33  per  cent,  of  sulphur ; it  has  been  used  with  favor- 
able result  in  prurigo,  proving  superior  to  beta-naphtol,  being  non-toxic  and  non-irritating. 

Action  and  Uses. — In  man  doses  of  from  2 to  5 grains  occasion  no  distinct  effects, 
but  7 or  8 grains  have  caused  a decline  of  the  pulse-rate  from  72  to  60.  Applied  to  the 
sound  skin  and  mucous  membranes  and  to  ulcers,  it  is  not  irritating ; on  the  contrary,  it 
appears  to  allay  all  local  painful  sensations  in  them,  and  even  to  blunt  common  sensibility. 
Thus  it  may  render  the  anus  so  insensible  that  the  passage  of  the  fecal  mass  will  not  be 
perceived.  Sometimes,  however,  its  application  has  excited  a severe  eczematous  eruption 
( Boston  Med . and  Surg.  Jour.,  March,  1882,  p.  250).  Sometimes  this  eruption  is  papular 
or  erythematous.  Iodoform  appears  to  be  eliminated  with  the  breath  and  all  the  secretions, 
and  very  speedily  after  its  administration.  According  to  Fehling  and  others,  iodoform  is 
decomposed  in  the  blood  and  its  constituents  are  secreted  with  the  mother’s  milk,  with 
danger  to  the  nursing  infant  ( Therap . Gaz.,  xii.  459),  and  in  the  form  of  an  iodide  (ibid., 
xiii.  773).  When  employed  to  dress  wounds  its  odor  may  be  perceived  upon  the  breath, 
and  its  taste  in  the  mouth,  while  the  urine  is  colored  yellow  ; and  if  applied  to  a large 
surface  it  may  occasion  headache,  nausea,  and  vomiting,  and  even  decided  symptoms  of 
poisoning.  In  two  children  after  the  application  of  iodoform  dressings,  the  symptoms 
assumed  in  the  one  a comatose  and  in  the  other  a meningitic  type  (Cazin),  and  in  another 
choreic  movements  accompanied  the  digestive  and  nervous  disorder.  Duret  describes 
three  forms  of  poisoning  by  this  preparation — viz.  the  eruptive,  the  cerebral,  and  the 
syncopal. 

In  1882,  according  to  Dentu,  there  had  already  been  published  eleven  cases  of  death 
following  the  use  of  iodoform  as  a surgical  dressing,  and  many  others  had  been  reported 
in  which  dangerous  or  disagreeable  phenomena  were  observed.  In  1886,  Dr.  E.  G.  Cutler 
collected,  chiefly  from  German  sources,  77  cases  of  iodoform-poisoning. 

After  having  been  used  in  1846  by  Bouchardat  in  cases  of  lymphatic  glandular  swell- 
ing, goitre,  and  amenorrhoea,  it  was  employed  ten  years  later  by  Maitre  for  similar  affec- 
tions, syphilis,  diseases  of  the  skin,  and  of  the  bladder,  etc.  This  physician  drew 
attention  to  its  anodyne  virtues,  and  administered  it  internally  to  the  extent  of  40  or  50 
grains  daily.  Its  value  was  more  fully  declared  in  1862  by  Righini,  who  demonstrated 
the  presence  of  iodine  in  all  the  secretions  after  the  administration  of  iodoform,  and  in 
the  urine  even  after  its  external  application.  He  stated,  however,  that,  unlike  iodine,  it 


IODOFORMTJM. 


881 


did  not  cause  emaciation  or  stimulate  the  glands  or  act  as  a local  irritant.  He  enlarged 
somewhat  the  sphere  of  its  therapeutical  uses.  Its  most  important  agency  was  first 
announced  by  Yon  Mosetig-Moorhof  in  1879  to  be  that  of  a dressing  for  surgical  wounds, 
and  for  this  purpose  it  has  been  widely  and  successfully  used,  especially  in  Germany. 
Its  anodyne  quality  was  conspicuously  displayed  in  the  treatment  of  cancer  of  the  uterus, 
breast,  and  other  parts,  for  the  progress  of  the  local  disease  was  rendered  slower  and  the 
exhaustion  of  the  patient’s  strength  was  retarded.  Indeed,  not  a few  tumors  (cancroid), 
supposed  to  be  cancers,  were  entirely  cured  under  this  treatment.  Its  special  value  as  a 
dressing  in  cases  of  cancer  consists  in  its  relieving  the  pain  and  correcting  the  offensive 
smell  of  the  discharges.  But  it  also  retards  the  progress  of  ulceration.  Simple  ulcers 
of  the  cervix  uteri  are  most  efficiently  treated  by  its  means,  although  some  persons 
associate  with  it  a carbolic-acid  lotion.  No  agent  is  more  successful  in  promoting  the 
removal  of  exudations  in  metritis,  'parametritis,  endometritis,  and  perimetritis,  as  well  as  in 
relieving  the  pain  of  these  affections.  It  may  be  applied  directly  by  means  of  a tampon 
in  the  vagina  or  introduced  into  the  rectum  in  a suppository,  or,  by  insufflation,  into  the 
dilated  cervix  uteri.  The  absorption  of  the  medicine  in  these  cases  is  demonstrated  by 
the  taste  in  the  mouth  of  which  the  patients  complain.  Moleschott  praises  highly  a 
mixture  of  1 part  of  iodoform  and  15  parts  of  flexible  collodion,  applied  night  and  morn- 
ing with  a brush,  as  a aiscutient  of  swollen  glands  in  the  neck  and  elsewhere,  as  well  as 
of  effusions  in  the  pleura,  pericardium,  peritoneum,  and  even  the  arachnoid,  and  as  a cura- 
tive application  to  chronically -inflamed  joints.  He  ascribes  the  cure  of  several  cases  of 
tubercular  meningitis  to  the  use  of  this  compound,  which  was  painted  three  or  four  times 
daily  over  the  nape  of  the  neck,  the  mastoid  processes,  the  temples,  and  the  forehead. 

Warfwinge  gives  equal  credit  to  friction  of  the  scalp  with  an  ointment  composed  of  1 
part  of  iodoform  to  5 of  vaseline  applied  twice  a day  ( Med . News.,  liii.  531)  ; and  Bruns 
claims  the  cure  of  many  tubercular  abscesses  by  injecting  them  with  a mixture  of  equal 
parts  of  iodoform,  glycerin,  and  alcohol  (Centralb.  f.  Med.  v.  636  ; vii.  351),  and  equally 
favorable  results  have  been  obtained  by  Billroth,  Wendelstadt,  etc.  Others  have  used 
for  surgical  abscesses  an  ethereal  solution,  5-10  per  cent,  strong  according  to  the  size  of 
the  abscess.  The  severe  pain  of  the  distension  produced  by  the  volatilized  ether  led  to 
the  disuse  of  this  preparation  and  the  substitution  of  olive  oil  as  a solvent  (1  : 10),  or  of 
an  emulsion  made  with  oil  and  alcohol  ( Centralbl . f.  Ther.,  vii.  680).  A solution  in 
eucalyptus  oil  has  been  used  by  Ransome  and  others  for  injecting  pulmonary  cavities — a 
method  more  remarkable  for  its  boldness  than  for  its  reasonableness  or  its  success.  (For 
the  treatment  of  cold  abscesses  see  below.)  Bindley  claims  remarkable  success  in  the 
treatment  of  diphtheria  by  the  “ liberal  application  ” of  iodoform  ( Boston  Med.  and  Svrg. 
Jour.,  Sert.,  1889,  p.  252).  Chandeleux  injected  iodoform  dissolved  in  ether  (1  : 8)  into 
the  bladder  for  the  relief  of  chronic  cgstitis  ( Therap . Gaz.,  xi.  622),  and  Frey  employed  a 
solution  of  iodoform  in  glycerin  and  water  ( Annuaire  de  Ther.,  1889,  p.  317).  Mosetig- 
Moorhof,  Schiff,  and  others  have  found  that  iodoform  powder  is  a very  soothing  applica- 
tion to  burns.  When  they  involve  the  face  a vaseline  ointment  (1  : 20)  is  preferred.  The 
parenchymatous  injection  of  a 5 per  cent,  ethereal  solution  of  iodoform  has  been  used 
successfully  by  Mosetig-Moorhof  in  the  treatment  of  goitre. 

Iodoform  has  been  used  topically  in  the  treatment  of  gonorrhoea,  especially  in  females, 
but  without  favorable  results,  except,  perhaps,  as  a palliative  of  chordee.  Venereal 
ulcers,  however,  of  the  cervix  uteri  and  vagina  are  benefited  by  it,  and  sometimes  in  a 
remarkable  degree.  Venereal  and  all  other  ulcers  are  most  favorably  influenced  by  iodo- 
form, the  more  so  in  proportion  as  they  are  irritable  and  painful.  “ Under  its  use 
healthy  sores  heal  rapidly,  creeping  sores  generally  cease  to  spread,  and  sluggish  ones 
take  on  healthy  action  ” (Hill).  Another  declares  its  effects  to  be  almost  magical 
( Practitioner , xxii.  321).  Mr.  Miller  says  of  his  treatment  of  “chancroids:”  “I  simply 
dust  them  with  iodoform  powder  and  keep  them  dry,  and  they  invariably  heal  up  in  a 
few  days”  ( Edinb . Med.  Jour.,  xxviii.  390).  This  surgeon  especially  lauds  the  virtues 
of  the  application  to  venereal  sores  of  the  female  genitals ; he  also  uses  it  for  buboes 
after  evacuation  and  for  syphilitic  ulcers  of  the  mouth,  nose,  etc.  In  these  encomiums 
almost  all  syphilographers  unite.  A later  writer  declares  that  iodoform  “ will  not 
retard  the  growth  of  a large,  indurated,  infecting  chancre,  and  will  not  arrest  phage- 
dena ; it  will  not  remove  venereal  warts  nor  materially  affect  an  inflamed  gland  ” {Med. 
A eics,  xli.  98);  but,  as  Brockhardt  summarizes  the  matter,  iodoform  “ is  a specific  against 
the  virus  of  soft  chancre ;”  or,  as  Unna  declares,  “ it  destroys  the  venereal  virus  in  the 
tissues,  and,  if  early  applied,  prevents  suppurating  buboes .”  It  seems  also  to  be  the 
most  efficient  agent  in  treating  the  last-named  abscesses  if  they  are  filled  with  iodoform 
56 


882 


IODOFORM  UM. 


gauze  after  having  been  evacuated  and  cleaned.  According  to  Brockhardt,  under  iodo- 
form dressing  suppurating  buboes  heal  twice  as  rapidly  as  under  the  more  usual  methods, 
and  with  due  antiseptic  precautions  “ opened  bubo  never  becomes  phagedenic,  diphthe- 
ritic, or  chancrous.”  It  is  alleged  to  exert  a favorable  influence  upon  the  later  constitu- 
tional symptoms  of  syphilis  when  given  internally  in  doses  of  from  \ to  $ grain  several 
times  a day,  and  has  also  been  administered  hypodermically,  suspended  in  glycerin,  for 
a similar  purpose.  A solution  of  1 part  of  iodoform  in  6 or  7 of  ether  is  considered  by 
some  surgeons  preferable  to  the  former  agent  alone,  since  it  acts  in  smaller  quantity  and 
also  as  a protective  to  the  sore.  Whitehead  and  others  also  prefer  an  ethereal  solution 
of  iodoform  to  the  powdered  drug,  or  a solution  of  1 part  of  iodoform  in  2 parts  of  ether 
and  seven  parts  of  collodion.  It  is  by  no  means  determined  that  iodoform  given  inter- 
nally is  beneficial  in  constitutional  syphilis ; some  affirm  and  others  deny  it.  There  is 
more  unanimity  respecting  its  subcutaneous  administration,  and  indeed,  Brockhardt 
declares  that  it  “ produces  a far  more  constant  and  effective  action  than  iodide  of  potas- 
sium.” Carded  cotton  thoroughly  impregnated  with  iodoform  has  also  been  found  very 
useful  for  application  to  the  nostrils,  vagina,  and  rectum.  In  the  simple  as  well  as  in 
the  syphilitic  form  of  ozaena  this  treatment  has  been  found  successful,  and  an  ointment 
of  iodoform  prepared  with  vaseline  has  been  used  with  equally  good  results.  The  same 
statement  is  true  regarding  syphilitic  ulcers  of  the  pharynx , to  which  the  ethereal  solution 
or  the  powder  has  been  applied,  or  which  have  been  treated  with  gelatin  lozenges,  each 
containing  1 or  2 grains  of  iodoform  and  allowed  to  dissolve  slowly  in  the  mouth. 
When  the  liquid  preparations  have  been  used  for  the  purposes  under  notice,  it  has  been 
recommended  to  administer  at  the  same  time  pills,  each  containing  1J  grains  of  iodo- 
form, three  times  a day  in  the  beginning,  the  dose  being  gradually  increased  until  8 or  10 
pills  are  taken  in  twenty-four  hours.  This  combined  local  and  general  treatment  is  strongly 
recommended  in  cases  of  syphilitic  fissured  ulcer  of  the  tongue.  The  application  of  iodo- 
form as  a dressing  for  open  buboes , and  especially  for  such  as  have  indurated  walls  and 
sinuses,  has  been  singularly  efficacious,  as  it  also  has  in  the  treatment  of  chronic  otorrhcea. 
In  all  of  the  cases  now  named  it  deodorizes,  while  it  tends  to  heal,  the  ulcerated  sur- 
faces. In  some  of  these  cases  the  action  of  nitrate  of  silver  may  be  associated  with 
that  of  iodoform,  the  latter  lessening  the  pain  of  the  former,  while  the  caustic  stim- 
ulates more  actively  than  the  iodoform. 

It  is  reputed  to  be  an  efficient  application  to  ringworm  of  the  scalp  and  in  the  treat- 
ment of  purulent  ophthalmia , granular  or  ulcerated  eyelids , ciliary  blepharitis , pannus,  and 
phlyctenulae  and  ulcers  of  the  cornea.  In  these  affections  of  the  eyeball  it  is  recom- 
mended to  apply  finely-powdered  iodoform  by  means  of  a camel’s-hair  brush,  and  to  use 
for  the  eyelids  an  ointment  made  with  1 part  of  iodoform  to  4 parts,  and  for  the  eye- 
ball 1 part  to  10  or  15  parts  of  vaseline.  It  allays  the  pain  and  promotes  the  healing  of  blis- 
tered surfaces  and  of  ulcers  left  by  burns.  In  some  cases  of  ulcerated  fissure  of  the 
anus  it  has  proved  a very  useful  palliative,  as  well  as  in  certain  haemorrhoidal  affections 
attended  with  pain  in  defecation.  In  both  it  acts  by  promoting  a more  healthy  nutri- 
tion, while  it  prevents  the  irritation  and  pain  which  tend  to  perpetuate  them.  Iodoform 
suppositories  used  in  these  affections  are  apt  to  cause  general  toxical  symptoms.  Pruri- 
tus vaginae  may  be  palliated  by  similar  means.  Biehl  has  successfully  treated  lupus  vul- 
garis with  iodoform  after  removing  the  cuticle  with  caustic  potassa.  The  latter  agent 
occasions  pain  which  the  subsequent  application  of  the  iodoform  neutralizes,  while  it 
causes  a gradual  shrivelling  and  disappearance  of  the  morbid  growth  (Boston  Med.  and 
Surg.  Jour.,  May,  1882,  p.  415).  It  appears  to  act  in  a similar  manner  upon  various 
local  inflammatory  swellings  of  the  lymphatic  glands  and  the  testes , and  to  diminish  the 
size  of  the  goitrous  tumors.  In  diseases  of  the  skm  it  seems  to  have  been  found  more 
useful  in  dry  and  chronic  affections  than  in  others  ; thus  in  psoriasis  and  prurigo,  rather 
than  in  eczema.  It  has,  however,  been  declared  by  Squire  to  be  a very  convenient  and 
efficient  remedy  for  impetigo  larvalis  ( British  Med.  Jour.,  May  14,  1881).  Frazer  found 
it  useful  both  in  local  eczema  and  impetigo  and  in  prurigo  decalvans  ( Practitioner , xxvn. 
280)  ; and  it  has  been  applied  in  an  ointment  or  liniment  to  prevent  pitting  in  small-pox. 
A solution  of  one  part  of  iodoform  in  ten  of  collodion  has  been  represented  to  be  effi- 
cient in  arresting  erysipelas  (Burman.)  But  the  examples  published  seem  to  have  been 
chiefly  cases  of  erythema,  such  as  various  stimulants  and  protectives  cure.  An  injection 
of  iodoform  25  grs.  starch  80  grs.,  and  water  3 fl.  oz.  has  been  successfully  used  to  coin 
bat  the  vesical  pain  and  irritability  caused  by  chronic  cystitis.  The  symptoms  caused  by 
ulcers  of  the  larynx  have  been  palliated  by  a glycerate  of  iodoform,  and  also  by  insuffla- 
tion of  the  powdered  medicine.  On  the  ground  that  iodoform  is  eliminated  through  the 


IODOFORMUM. 


883 


lungs,  Bruns  proposed  its  use  in  the  treatment  of  phthisis,  and  believed  that  his  view  was 
confirmed  by  clinical  experience.  Dr.  R.  Singleton  Smith  (1884)  also  brought  a series 
of  cases  to  confirm  this  view,  but  later  confirmation  is  wanting.  In  chronic  nasal  catarrh 
powdered  iodoform,  diluted  with  a neutral  powder,  has  been  successful  not  only  in  de- 
odorizing the  discharge,  but  also  in  arresting  it.  A similar  application,  or  one  of 
iodoform  dissolved  in  ether,  has  been  found  salutary  in  specific  and  other  ulcers  of  the 
throat , vagina , etc.  In  chronic  suppuration  of  the  middle  ear , but  more  especially  of 
the  internal  auditory  canal , iodoform  excels  all  other  applications  in  diminishing  the 
discharge,  correcting  its  fetor,  and  restoring  the  part  to  its  normal  condition.  Some 
claims  have  been  made  for  this  medicine  as  a topical  remedy  in  diphtheria , but  they 
rest  upon  very  inadequate  grounds.  It  may  be  applied  in  spray  or  powder,  or  in  a solu- 
tion of  1 part  of  iodoform  and  2 parts  of  balsam  of  Tolu  in  10  parts  of  ether. 

The  gangrenous  vulvitis  which  is  so  common  under  certain  conditions  of  constitution 
and  recent  sickness  in  hospital  practice  is  more  successfully  controlled  by  powdered 
iodoform  than  by  any  other  agent.  According  to  Parrot  (Bull,  de  Ther .,  c.  382),  noth- 
ing so  easily  and  promptly  cures  that  aphthous  forms  of  vulvitis  which  attacks  feeble 
and  ill-fed  children.  In  other  forms  of  hospital  gangrene  it  is  efficacious.  It  is  one  of 
the  best  palliatives  of  pruritus  pudendi  when  applied  in  an  ointment  containing  about  Gm. 
1.20  in  Gm.  30  (20  grains  to  the  ounce).  The  anodyne  virtues  of  iodoform  displayed 
in  these  affections,  as  well  as  in  various  other  painful  disorders  of  the  rectum,  bladder, 
and  uterus,  the  mouth  and  the  nasal  passages,  are  also  exhibited  in  some  internal  dis- 
orders, and  particularly  in  those  of  the  stomach.  Gastralgia , alone  or  associated  with 
simple  gastric  ulcer , is  relieved  by  it,  and  sometimes  permanently  cured.  In  cases  of 
vaginal  hypersesthesia  and  vaginismus  its  action  is  favorably  exhibited,  especially  when 
these  conditions  depend  upon  a lesion  of  the  mucous  membrane.  In  the  absence  of  the 
latter,  belladonna  may  be  usefully  associated  with  iodoform.  External  neuralgise  have, 
it  is  said,  been  cured  by  iodoform,  but  as  in  every  case  iron  was  used  internally, 
the  cure  was  very  probably  due  to  the  latter  medicine.  But  there  can  be  no  doubt  of  its 
anodyne  action  in  these  affections.  Topically,  it  is,  like  many  other  anodynes,  a palli- 
ative of  neuralgia  if  applied  over  the  tender  points  of  the  nerves.  For  this  purpose 
iodoform  collodion  is  convenient.  According  to  Moleschott,  it  has  often  relieved  the 
most  intense  pains  and  other  symptoms  of  gouty  inflammation  within  fwenty-four  hours  after 
painting  the  affected  part  with  the  solution  of  iodoform  in  collodion.  Testa  recommends 
it  in  this  disease  internally,  provided  that  the  kidneys  be  not  obstructed,  and  also  as  a 
palliative  of  arythmia  in  diseases  of  the  heart.  An  ointment  made  with  1 part  of  iodo- 
form and  4 parts  of  vaseline  is  said  to  have  promptly  reduced  the  pain  and  swelling  in 
acute  orchitis  (Med.  Record , xix.  463).  Iodoform  has  also  been  recommended  to  relieve 
the  pain  of  a carious  tooth , but  it  was  used  along  with  carbolic  acid,  oil  of  peppermint, 
or  other  anaesthetic,  to  which,  probably,  the  relief  was  mainly  due.  Owing  to  the  use 
by  German  writers  of  the  word  “ tubercle  ” in  its  generic  sense,  it  has  been  supposed 
that  iodoform  was  claimed  to  be  a remedy  for  pulmonary  tubercular  phthisis ; no  reason- 
able physician  has  preferred  so  proposterous  a claim.  Some,  however,  allege  that  the 
medicine  is  a palliative  of  the  cough,  expectoration,  fever,  and  sweating  in  this  disease, 
and  attribute  this  favorable  action  to  its  elimination  in  part  through  the  lungs. 

The  application  of  iodoform  as  a dressing  for  surgical  and  other  wounds , which  was 
introduced  by  Mosetig-Moorhof  in  1879,  became  very  general  in  1880,  especially  in 
Germany.  It  was  claimed  to  be  absolutely  unirritating ; wounds  were  said  to  be  stimu- 
lated by  it  even  less  than  by  carbolic-acid  lotions,  and  the  granulating  process  was 
thought  by  Mikulicz  ( Wiener  Klinik , Jan.  1882)  to  be  rather  retarded  than  quickened 
by  it.  It  has  a remarkable  anaesthetic  action,  and  when  kept  applied  to  wounds  is  a 
disinfectant  which  has  the  advantage  of  being  altogether  unirritating.  According  to 
the  surgeon  just  named,  it  is  neither  as  prompt  nor  as  energetic  as  some  other  antisep- 
tics, and  is  quite  unsuited  for  disinfecting  the  surgeon’s  hands,  instruments,  etc.  Owing 
to  its  mild  action,  it  is  recommended  as  a permanent  dressing  for  recent  wounds,  and 
especially  for  such  as  are  attended  with  a loss  of  substance.  It  is  said  to  be  less  eligible 
for  granulating  wounds.  In  penetrating  wounds  and  deep  cavities  the  whole  interior 
surface  should  be  coated  with  iodoform  powder,  but  in  recent  wounds  which  are  to  be 
healed  by  the  first  intention  it  is,  according  to  this  authority,  superfluous,  if  not  inju- 
rious, to  apply  the  powder  to  the  raw  surface,  but  the  part  should  be  dressed  with  iodo- 
form gauze.  In  contused,  complicated,  and  other  analogous  wounds  due  drainage  pre- 
cautions should  be  observed.  An  iodoform  gauze  dressing  is  also  recommended  in  all 
operations  involving  the  peritoneum,  intestine,  etc.,  and  in  those  interesting  the  nasal 


884 


IODOFORMUM. 


cavities,  the  mouth,  pharynx,  rectum,  vagina,  etc.  A great  value  is  claimed  for  iodo- 
form gauze  in  some  of  these  cases — e.  g.  in  excision  of  the  tongue  for  cancer  of  that 
organ,  as  reported  by  Billroth  ( Amer . Jour,  of  Med.  Sci.,  April,  1882,  p.  567).  Its  advan- 
tages are  very  conspicuous  in  the  treatment  of  open  cancer,  septic  and  gangrenous  wounds, 
and  ulcers , in  panarities  and  paronychia,  in  boils  and  carbuncles  after  incision,  and  in  the 
lesions  connected  with  scrofula,  lupus , and  syphilis.  Whitehead  claims  to  have  aborted 
carbuncles  by  injecting  into  them  a saturated  solution  of  iodoform  in  ether  (Brit.  Med. 
Jour.,  Mar.  9,  1889).  A similar  treatment  of  malignant  pustule  has  been  employed  by 
Binonapoli  ( Therap.  Gaz .,  xiii.  788). 

The  treatment  of  cold  abscesses  by  injections  of  solutions  of  iodoform  is  said  to  ensure 
their  contraction  and  cure  without  marked  symptoms  of  reaction.  Practised  first  by 
Mickulicz  and  by  Fr'ankel,  others  have  found  the  method  radically  curative.  The  origi- 
nal solution  contained  about  Gm.  2.60  (gr.  xl),  of  iodoform  in  glycerin  Gm.  32  (^j), 
and  was  required  to  be  used  only  once  to  effect  a cure  in  the  most  favorable  cases  (Med. 
Neivs , xlv.  491.)  Verneuil  used  Gm.  100-300  (f^iij-ix)  of  an  ethereal  solution  1 : 20, 
and  from  that  to  1 : 5,  after  aspirating  the  abscess.  It  is  said  that  no  toxical  symptoms 
were  induced  unless  the  quantity  of  the  solution  was  greatly  in  excess  of  the  doses 
mentioned.  The  absorption  of  iodoform  from  abscesses  appear  to  be  very  slow  (Bull, 
de  Therap.,  cviii.  191.)  Verchere  recommends  that  for  large  abscesses  a 5 per  cent, 
solution  should  be  used  and  either  a 10  per  cent,  or  a saturated  solution  for  small  ones. 
The  distension  of  the  abscess-walls  by  the  vaporized  ether  soon  subsides  (Med.  News. 
xlix.  403.)  These  conclusions  have  been  confirmed  by  Billroth  (Therap.  Monatsh.,  iv. 
253),  Bruns  (Amer.  Jour.  Med.  Sci .,  Aug.  1890,  p.  194),  Kirschner  (ibid.,  p.  523.) 

At  the  risk  of  some  repetition,  a brief  summary  may  here  be  given  of  the  conclusions 
of  Mosetig-Moorhof,  the  most  enthusiastic  promoter  of  the  surgical  applications  of  iodo- 
form (1882)  : It  is  a specific  against  the  formation  of  exuberant  granulations,  and 
represses  them  when  they  already  exist,  transforming  them  into  a firm  and  healthy  tis- 
sue. To  affect  this  purpose  it  is  necessary  to  scrape  the  indolent  growth  so  as  to  expose 
a raw  surface.  After  this  operation  and  the  dressing  the  discharge  ceases  to  be  puru- 
lent. Iodoform  is  the  most  certain  antiseptic  of  every  description  of  wound,  and  in  a 
moderate  amount  is  not  hurtful  to  the  system,  although  it  is  absorbed  and  is  found 
excreted  with  the  urine.  Its  primary  action  is,  indeed,  anaesthetic,  but  secondarily  it 
quickens  granulation  and  absolutely  prevents  all  septic  processes  in  wounds.  Under  its 
use  the  healing  process  is  apyretic,  or  if  at  first  the  evening  temperature  is  raised  it  does 
not  present  the  characters  of  septic  fever.  Introduced  into  a wound,  it  does  not  prevent 
union  by  the  first  intention.  Still,  with  the  iodoform  dressing,  as  with  all  others,  pro- 
vision must  be  made  for  the  escape  of  the  secretions.  Their  discharge  does  not  impair 
the  antiseptic  quality  of  the  application,  but  the  rise  of  temperature  that  attends  their 
accumulation  demands  the  renewal  of  the  dressing,  which  also  permits  an  inspection 
of  the  wound.  If  after  a few  days  traumatic  fever  does  not  arise,  a fresh  dressing, 
although  desirable  for  the  sake  of  cleanliness,  is  not  absolutely  necessary.  Under  this 
method  traumatic  erysipelas  is  very  rare.  Iodoform  as  an  antiseptic  renders  other  anti- 
septics unnecessary.  Besides  it,  only  pure  water  is  required.  Perfect  cleanliness  of  the 
hands  and  instruments  that  touch  the  wounds  is  essential.  Iodoform  is  the  cheapest, 
surest,  and  most  permanent  of  all  antiseptic  dressings.  The  materials  are  easy  to  man- 
age. Iodoform  powder  and  gauze  may  be  preserved  for  years  without  the  slightest  loss 
of  activity.  They  may  be  applied  antiseptically  to  the  buccal  cavity  and  in  or  near  the 
rectum  and  bladder. 

The  judgments  now  given  are  substantially  the  same  as  those  of  all  the  leading  sur- 
geons of  Germany.  (Compare  Centralbl.  f.  d.  g.  Therap.,  i.  49.)  The  results  ob- 
tained by  Prof.  Boeckel  of  Strassburg  are  scarcely  less  remarkable  than  those  now 
recorded  (Bull,  de  Therap.,  cii.  265,  321).  In  England  most  of  the  reports  of  the  Ger- 
man surgeons  have  been  confirmed  (Med.  Record,  xxi.  400),  and  in  this  country,  although 
the  published  accounts  of  iodoform  in  surgery  are  of  the  same  character,  they  are  less 
numerous  than  might  have  been  expected  (ibid.,  xxi.  309).  It  is  highly  probable  that 
the  offensive  smell  of  the  preparation  is  the  chief  cause  of  its  comparatively  limited  use 
outside  of  Germany.  This  is  the  more  remarkable  in  view  of  the  language  of  hyperbole 
which  its  German  promoters  adopt.  Von  Mosetig-Moorhof  in  his  enthusiasm  exclaims: 
“ The  hymn  of  praise  that  I have  sung  to  iodoform  is  not  pitched  upon  too  high  a key. 
The  most  eminent  German  surgeons  join  in  the  chorus  that  soon  will  echo  around  the 
world.  Only  let  not  impossibilities  be  expected  from  this  agent ; it  cannot  work  mira- 
cles.” 


IODOFORMTJM. 


885 


In  1881,  Spaeth  introduced  into  the  womb  of  lying-in  women  threatened  with  puerperal 
fever  ( septicaemia ) pencils  containing  iodoform  (powdered  iodoform  20  parts;  gum  acacia 
and  starch,  of  each  2 parts).  The  cases  in  which  they  were  employed  comprised  opera- 
tions on  the  uterus,  abortion,  partial  retention  of  the  placenta,  endometritis,  etc.  This 
treatment  was  found  to  allay  pain,  prevent  putrefaction  of  and  diminish  the  discharges, 
and  also  to  promote  the  healing  of  lesions,  while  it  spared  the  patient  the  frequent  injec- 
tions required  by  the  use  of  carbolic-acid  and  corrosive-sublimate  solutions.  One,  or  at 
most  two,  applications  in  each  case  sufficed  {Gentralbl.  f d.  g.  Therap .,  ii.  80).  The  con- 
clusions of  Spaeth  were  confirmed  by  various  gynaecologists,  including  Ehrendorfer 
( Times  and  Gaz .,  May  31,  1884),  and  in  the  United  States  by  Boardman,  who  employed 
insufflation  of  powdered  iodoform  into  the  uterus  and  vagina  ( Boston  Med.  aad  Surg. 
Jour , Sept.  1884,  p.  246). 

The  dose  of  iodoform  is  Gm.  0.06-0.20  (1  to  3 grains)  three  times  a day,  in  pill.  It 
may  be  applied  in  a very  fine  powder,  the  part  having  been  thoroughly  dried,  but  this 
method  diffuses  the  preparation  and  decreases  its  effectiveness.  It  is  better  used  in  oint- 
ments, liniments,  or  suppositories,  each  application  containing  about  Gm.  0.10  (2  grains) 
of  iodoform.  For  some  of  these  purposes  it  may  be  dissolved  in  alcohol,  chloroform, 
ether,  collodion,  oil,  glycerin,  or  vaseline.  It  may  be  used  for  insufflation  or  sprinkling 
mixed  with  lycopodium,  powdered  sugar,  or  starch.  As  already  described,  it  has  been 
incorporated  with  gelatin  to  form  pastilles.  The  following  formulae  have  been  recom- 
mended: R.  Iodoform  ^j-giss ; glycerin  f^xij  ; alcohol  f^iv. — M.  R.  Iodoform  gr.  xxx  ; 
alcohol  q.  s. ; lard  ^j. — M.  The  following  may  be  used  for  making  suppositories : R. 
Iodoform  Gm.  2.50  (gr.  xxxviij)  ; cocoa-butter  Gm.  40  (^j,  ^ij)  ; yellow  wax  Gm.  5 (gr. 
Ixxv).  Mix  at  a gentle  heat  and  make  ten  suppositories.  Cylinders  made  with  cocoa- 
butter, mucilage,  and  glycerin,  or  gelatin  are  used  in  the  treatment  of  sinuses  and  other 
deep  and  narrow  cavities.  A solution  for  topical  application  may  be  prepared  by  dis- 
solving 1 Gm.  (15  gr.)  of  crystallized  iodoform  in  4 Gm.  (60  gr.)  of  sulphuric  ether  (60° 
Baume).  The  gauze  used  as  a surgical  dressing  contains  from  10  to  20  per  cent,  of 
iodoform  (Billroth),  or  from  30  to  50  per  cent.  (Mosetig-Moorhof).  It  is  essential  that 
neither  the  gauze,  the  powder,  nor  any  other  preparation  of  iodoform  should  be  applied 
very  frequently,  for  such  repetition  multiplies  the  dangers  of  poisoning. 

A 20  per  cent,  solution  of  iodoform  in  ether  has  been  used  hypodermically.  Thomann 
recommends  a 30  per  cent,  solution  in  glycerin,  of  which  Gm.  0.30-0.75  (5  gr.  or  later  on 
12  grs.)  are  employed  in  each  injection  for  constitutional  syphilis.  A 25  per  cent  solu- 
tion in  olive  oil  and  a 10  per  cent,  solution  in  glycerin  have  been  injected  into  the  nasal 
and  other  natural  cavities,  into  cold  abscesses  after  their  evacuation,  etc.  Iodoform  oint- 
ments generally  contain  from  5 to  10  per  cent,  of  iodoform.  Elastic  collodion,  contain- 
ing from  6 to  10  per  cent,  of  iodoform,  is  a very  useful  application  to  inflammatory 
swellings  of  various  kinds,  enlarged  lymphatic  glands , the  tender  points  in  neuralgia , etc. 

The  smell  of  iodoform  is  intolerable  to  many  and  offensive  to  all,  and  the  ingenuity  of 
surgeons  and  pharmacists  has  been  taxed  to  devise  methods  of  neutralizing  or  concealing 
it.  The  latter  object  has  been  sought  by  the  use  of  fragrant  substances,  such  as 
cumarin,  musk,  and  the  oils  of  bergamot,  peppermint,  lavender,  sassafras,  turpentine, 
cinnamon,  thyme,  and  eucalyptus.  Oil  of  southernwood  (Artemisia  abrotanum),  has 
been  proposed  for  the  same  purpose.  The  following  formula  has  been  employed  : 
Iodoform  gij  ; oil  of  eucalyptus  rr^xv;  oils  of  verbena,  mirbane,  lavender,  and  lemon,  of 
each  npv  (Arthur).  When  the  powdered  drug  is  kept  in  a jar  with  several  Tonqua 
beans  its  odor  is  greatly  diminished.  An  ointment  recommended  by  Auspitz  contains 
iodoform  and  carbolic  acid,  of  each  2 parts ; lard  7 or  8 parts.  Lindernann  claims  that 
2 parts  of  balsam  of  Peru  to  1 of  iodoform  completely  mask  the  smell  of  the  latter. 
This  mixture  can  be  conveniently  made  up  in  an  ointment  with  vaseline.  Tannin  is  also 
stated  to  lessen  the  smell  of  iodoform.  Oppler  has  proposed  iodoform  2 parts;  finely 
powdered  roasted  coffee  1 part;  oil  of  sassafras  and  oil  of  Evoida  fraxinifolia ; and 
powdered  camphor  1 part  to  3 parts  of  iodoform.  Dr.  Stout  claims  that  9 parts  of  this 
product  may  be  deodorized  by  1 of  coumarin  or  of  vanillin,  or  by  2 parts  of  cinnamic 
Napthalin,  tar,  and  creolin  have  also  been  used  for  the  same  purpose. 


acid. 


The  poisonous  effects  of  iodoform  are  to  be  met  by  suspending  its  use,  removing  all 
of  it  that  may  have  been  applied,  and  washing  the  part  with  a solution  of  sodium  bicar- 
bonate ; at  the  same  time  solutions  of  potassium  acetate,  lemonade,  and  analogous 
drinks  should  be  freely  given. 

Annidalin,  a combination  of  thymol  and  iodine,  has  been  used  under  the  name  of 
anstol.  It  is  not  an  irritant  nor  poisonous  when  taken  internally  (Seifert).  Its  con- 


886 


IODOFORMUM. 


stituents  do  not  appear  in  the  urine.  It  was  introduced  by  Eichhoff  in  1889  ( Ther . 
Monatsh .,  iv.  85),  who  recommended  it  as  being  inodorous  as  well  as  non-irritant,  and  as 
an  efficient  remedy  in  various  cutaneous  diseases , including  psoriasis , syphilitic  sores,  lupus, 
etc.  Similar  testimony  was  furnished  by  Schirren,  and  Seifert  ( ibid .,  pp.  207,  312). 
Swiecicki  stated  it  to  be  useful  in  curing  uterine  discharges  (ibid.),  and  Brocq  confirmed 
most  of  these  statements.  Lowenstein  used  insufflations  of  the  powder  in  ozsena  ( Lancet , 
July,  1890,  p.  549),  and  Rohrer  in  various  affections  of  the  ear — a practice  condemned 
by  Szenes  ( Therap.  Monatsh.,  iv.  543).  Poliak  claimed  that  ointments  made  with  it 
were  very  efficient  in  reducing  the  size  of  goitres , scrofulous  glands,  swelled  testicles,  etc. 
(Therap.  Monatsh.,  iv.  340).  Neisser,  on  the  other  hand  (Centralb.  f.  Ther.,  viii.  428), 
did  not  find  it  a useful  application  to  soft  chancres  or  in  chronic  indurated  eczema,  in 
lupus,  syphilitic  ulcers  of  the  skin,  and  various  cutaneous  affections.  It  is  reported  to 
act  very  favorably  as  a dressing  for  wounds,  ulcers,  and  various  diseases  of  the  eye 
(Wallace,  University  Med.  Mag.,  iii.  472),  and  it  is  one  of  the  numberless  applications 
recommended  in  poisoning  by  Rhus  toxicodendron.  Aristol  has  been  applied  in  powder 
with  sugar  of  milk,  1 : 10,  and  in  the  same  proportion  in  an  ointment  with  cocoa-butter, 
lard,  vaseline,  or  lanoline.  (Compare  Egasse,  Bull,  de  Therap.,  cxix.  263,  314 ; Lar- 
muth,  Amer.  Jour.  Phar .,  lxii.  495 ; Allen,  Med.  Record,  xxxviii.  404.) 

Antisepsin  is  antipyretic  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.02-0.05  (gr.  J)  every  three  hours ; 
and  as  a topical  application  to  wounds  and  ulcers  it  may  be  used  in  powder  for  the  relief 
of  pain  and  regulating  the  granulating  process.  It  has  been  used  in  suppositories  for 
the  relief  of  hsemorrhoids,  in  the  proportion  of  Gm.  0. 2-0.4  to  cocoa-butter  Gm.  3-4 
(gr.  3-6  to  gr.  45-60). 

Antiseptol,  another  of  the  many  substitutes  for  iodoform,  and  recommended  for  the 
same  purposes,  is  thought  to  be  inferior  to  carbolic  acid  as  an  antiseptic,  and  is  far 
less  poisonous.  Its  clinical  uses  are  the  same  as  those  of  antisepsin.  For  external  use 
a 1-10  per  cent,  solution  is  recommended,  and  internally  it  has  been  given  in  a solution 
of  Gm.  6 in  water  Gm.  1000  (f^iss  in  Oij). 

Cresol,  says  Dr.  Squibb,  and  all  its  compounds,  “are  powerful  antiseptics,  but  have 
the  disadvantage  ....  of  adhering  to  or  rendering  slippery  the  operating  instruments 
and  hands,  and  of  readily  oxidizing  in  the  air.”  According  to  Frankel,  it  is  only  half 
as  poisonous  as  carbolic  acid  and  far  excels  it  in  disinfecting  power. 

Europhen  depends  for  its  virtues  essentially  upon  the  iodine  in  its  composition, 
which  is  gradually  exhaled.  Its  solubility  in  oils,  and  its  freedom  from  offensive  smell 
and  poisonous  qualities  recommend  it.  It  has  been  extensively  used  and  commended  in 
the  treatment  of  chancres  and  other  ulcers  of  the  skin  and  mucous  membranes,  and  espe- 
cially those  which  secrete  a fetid  discharge,  including  burns , lupus,  eczema,  etc.  A k 
to  1 per  cent,  ointment  with  vaseline  has  been  applied  to  the  conjunctiva,  and  one  o\ 

5 to  10  per  cent,  strength  to  other  parts.  Internally  doses  of  Gm.  0.01  (gr.  ^)  have  not 
been  found  to  occasion  any  disorder;  but  a dose  of  Gm.  0.10  (gr.  1?)  is  said  to  have 
caused  pains  in  the  head  and  abdomen. 

Iodol. — In  1885-86  iodol  was  used  in  the  syphilitic  wards  of  Rome  by  Silber,  Cia- 
miccian,  and  Mazzini  as  a dressing  for  ulcers,  and  was  found  to  act  as  a wholesome 
stimulant,  deodorant,  and  anodyne,  like  iodoform,  without  the  disagreeable  smell  of  the 
latter.  It  appears  to  act  as  a superficial  caustic,  forming  a whitish  film  on  the  ulcerated 
surface,  but  not  a scab.  It  does  not  act  favorably  upon  sloughing  sores.  Injected  into 
the  tissue  of  lupus,  it  shows  a healing  power,  and  in  fungous  disease  of  the  joints  its 
alcoholic  solution  has  caused  a cure  with  shrivelling  of  the  vegetations.  In  cancer  of 
the  rectum  and  of  the  uterus  it  has  been  applied  on  tampons  with  excellent  palliative 
effect ; in  like  manner  it  has  cured  mucous  fluxes  of  the  vagina,  reduced  condyl- 
omata,  and,  in  general,  palliated  the  local  manifestations  of  syphilis,  scrofula,  lupus,  etc. 
(Centralb.  f.  Ther.,  iv.  515  ; Therap.  Gaz .,  x.  703).  It  has  been  injected  into  the  cavity 
after  the  evacuation  of  hydrocele,  aud  also  into  abscesses.  Applied  as  a fine  powder  or  a 
20-30  per  cent,  vaseline  salve  by  Glassner,  it  was  found  useful  in  pannus,  corneal  opa- 
cities, serous  iritis,  and  blepharitis,  but  not  in  phlyctenous  conjunctivitis.  Trousseau  em- 
ployed in  these  affections  a 2-3  per  cent,  ointment.  Lublinski,  Seifert,  Wolfenden,  and 
others  applied  powdered  iodol  to  the  treatment  of  laryngeal  phthisis  and  atrophic  ca- 
tarrhs of  the  nostrils  and  pharynx.  Stembo  claims  for  this  method  the  cure  of  diphtheria 
(Brit.  Med.  Jour.,  Apr.  9,  1887).  The  alleged  virtues  of  its  internal  use  in  scrofula, 
chronic  bronchitis,  and  phthisis  have  not  been  confirmed  (Med.  News,  liv.  17 ; Therap. 
Gaz..  xiii.  72).  Stetler  claims  for  it  exceptional  efficacy  in  the  treatment  of  carious 
suppuration  of  the  auditory  canal.  He  used  1 to  2 parts  of  iodol  in  a mixture  of  16  parts 


IODUM. 


887 


of  alcohol  and  34  of  glycerin  ( Am . Jour.  Med.  Sci .,  xciv.  266).  The  dose  of  iodol 
internally  has  been  stated  at  Gin.  0.13-0.20  (gr.  ij — iij) *a  day,  but  ten  times  as  much  has 
been  given  without  injury.  In  chronic  laryngitis  lozenges,  each  containing  one  grain 
of  iodol,  have  been  used.  Usually  it  is  directly  applied,  by  insufflation,  as  a powder, 
mixed  with  boric  acid  or  with  powdered  talc,  etc.  It  may  also  be  used  in  a vaseline 
ointment  or  on  prepared  gauze. 

Iodonaphthol  has  been  applied  in  the  same  class  of  cases  and  in  the  same  manner  as 
the  preceding  preparations. 

Iodophenin,  like  the  preceding  iodous  compounds,  depends  for  its  virtues  upon  the 
iodine  in  its  composition,  but  owing,  it  is  said,  to  its  yielding  its  iodine  very  rapidly,  it 
lacks  the  characteristic  qualities  of  the  preparations  above  considered. 

Soziodol.  This  compound  causes  little  or  no  local  irritation,  and  does  not  act  as  a 
poison.  Neither  Langgaard  nor  Seifert  found  any  potassium  iodide  in  the  urine  after  its 
internal  use.  According  to  Lassar  ( Therap . Monatsh .,  Nov.  1887),  and  Nitchmann  (ib., 
Jan.  1889),  as  a powder  or  in  an  ointment  with  vaseline  or  lanoline  it  is  a useful  appli- 
cation to  wounds , ulcers , cutaneous  eruptions , including  the  parasitic  forms,  in  diseases  of 
the  nasal  passages , etc.  (Fritsche).  Larmuth  commends  its  sodium  salt  in  watery  solu- 
tion (3-10  per  cent.),  on  gauze,  wool,  etc.  It  has  been  employed  in  various  forms  of 
conjunctivitis.  Herzog,  Seifert,  and  others  used  compounds  of  soziodol  with  sodium, 
potassium,  zinc,  and  mercury,  generally  mixed  with  talc  and  administered  by  insufflation, 
the  first  two  with  equal  parts  of  talc.  The  salt  of  mercury  is  seldom  employed  in 
greater  proportion  than  1 : 20,  and,  in  the  nares,  for  instance,  after  the  application  of 
cocaine.  Both  metallic  salts  of  soziodol  are  irritating  to  mucous  membranes.  All  the 
preparations  are  more  or  less  antiseptic.  Soziodol  zinc  has  been  used  in  2 per  cent, 
solutions  to  restrain  purulent  discharges — e.  g.  gonorrhoea , leucorrhoea,  etc.  (Compare 
Fritschmann,  University  Med.  Mag.,  iii.  434.) 

IODUM,  U.  S.,  Br B.  G.— Iodine. 

lode , Fr. ; Jod,  G. 

Symbol  I.  Atomicity  univalent.  Atomic  weight  126.53. 

A non-metallic  element,  obtained  principally  from  the  ashes  of  sea-weeds  and  from  the 
mother-liquor  of  Chilian  sodium  nitrate.  Iodine  should  be  preserved  in  glass-stoppered 
bottles  in  a cool  place. 

Origin. — Iodine  was  discovered  in  1811  by  Courtois  in  the  ash  of  sea-weeds,  and  was 
soon  afterward  thoroughly  investigated  by  Gay-Lussac ; also  by  Davy,  Soubeiran,  and  others. 
It  is  very  widely  distributed  in  nature,  but  is  usually  met  with  #in  small,  and  even  quite 
minute,  quantity,  almost  invariably  in  combination.  It  is  found  in  some  minerals  com- 
bined with  mercury,  silver,  lead,  and  other  metals  ; in  Chili  saltpetre,  principally  as  sodium 
iodate ; in  many  mineral  spring-waters,  in  sea-water,  in  coal,  and  in  many  plants  and 
animals  living  in  sea-water  or  near  the  sea-coast.  It  is  often  a constituent  of  the  atmo- 
sphere in  minute  quantities,  and  occasionally  of  the  ashes  of  some  plants  growing  inland. 
During  the  fiscal  year  1866-67  the  United  States  imported  10,701  pounds  of  crude  and 
889  pounds  of  resublimed  iodine  ; in  1878  the  amount  was  73,687  pounds,  and  in  1881 
182,863  pounds,  of  the  crude  article. 

Preparation. — KJp  is  the  ash  left  on  the  burning  of  sea-weeds.  The  weeds  are  first 
dried,  and  then  charred  or  burned  at  as  low  a temperature  as  possible,  to  avoid  loss  of 
iodine.  The  ash  is  exhausted  with  hot  water,  and  the  solution  concentrated  and  cooled 
to  remove  by  crystallization  potassium  chloride  and  sodium  carbonate  and  sulphate. 
More  of  the  latter  salt  will  crystallize  after  the  addition  of  some  sulphuric  acid,  whereby 
the  sulphides  and  thiosulphates  present  are  decomposed.  To  the  mother-liquor1  heated 
in  lead  retorts  to  a temperature  a little  over  60°  C.  (140°  F.)  manganese  dioxide  is 
added  in  small  quantities,  when  iodine  will  distil  over,  and  is  collected  in  glass  receivers, 
several  of  which  are  connected  with  each  other.  The  liberation  of  iodine  from  the 
sodium  iodide  of  the  liquor  is  explained  by  the  following  equation:  2NaI-|-3H2S04 
+ Mn02=I2-f- 2NaHS04+  MnS04-b 2H20,  acid  sodium  sulphate  and  manganous  sulphate 
being  formed  at  the  same  time.  The  mother-liquor  obtained  on  the  purification  of  Chili 
saltpetre  contains  sodium  iodate  and  iodide ; from  the  latter  the  iodine  is  separated  by 
chlorine  gas ; from  the  former,  by  sulphurous,  or  preferably  by  nitrous,  acid,  in  which 
case  sodium  sulphate  or  nitrate  is  produced. 

Purification. — In  the  crude  state  iodine  is  chiefly  contaminated  with  water,  but  it 
sometimes  contains  also  cyanogen  iodide,  and  occasionally  iodine  chloride,  IC1.  Purifica- 


888 


IODUM. 


tion  is  effected  by  drying  the  product  as  much  as  possible  by  mechanical  means,  and  then 
subliming  it  carefully,  so  that  the  more  volatile  compounds  named  may  first  sublime ; 
afterward  the  heat  is  raised  and  the  receiver  changed.  The  product  is  the  resublimed 
iodine  of  commerce. 

Properties. — Iodine  is  in  flat,  scale-like  rhombic  crystals  of  a grayish-black  or 
bluish-black  color  and  a bright  metallic  lustre,  in  thin  splinters  transparent  with  a red 
color.  It  is  soft  and  friable,  and  has  a peculiar  odor,  suggestive  of  chlorine,  and  a very 
caustic  and  acrid  taste.  The  skin  or  paper  is  colored  red-brown  to  dark-brown,  the  stain 
disappearing  gradually.  Iodine  has  neither  an  acid  nor  alkaline  reaction,  but  slowly 
destroys  all  vegetable  colors.  It  has  the  specific  gravity  4.95,  vaporizes  slowly  and 
without  leaving  any  residue  at  ordinary  temperatures,  fuses  near  115°  C.  (239°  F.), 
congeals  at  113.6°  C.  (236.5°  F.),  and  boils  above  115°  C.  (347°  F.),  according 
to  Stas,  when  quite  pure  at  250°  C.  (482°  F.)  ; its  vapor  has  the  density  8.7,  and 
a reddish  or  purple,  or  above  the  boiling-point  a deep-blue,  color.  Iodine  dissolves 
with  a brown-yellow  color  in  about  60  parts  of  glycerin,  and  in  7000  parts  (Gay-Lussac) 
(5000  parts,  according  to  U.  S.  P.)  of  water,  and  forms  with  it  gradually  hydriodic  acid, 
which  dissolves  more  iodine;  its  solubility  in  water  is  also  increased  by  tannin  and  by 
many  salts,  and  particularly  by  iodides.  It  requires  for  solution  about  10  parts  of 
alcohol  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  and  dissolves  freely  in  ether,  both  solutions  having  a brown 
color ; it  is  easily  soluble  in  chloroform,  carbon  disulphide,  benzene,  and  other  hydrocar- 
bons with  a purplish  or  violet  color. 

Iodine  is  readily  recognized  by  the  blue  color  which  it  imparts  to  starch-paste,  by 
which  test  4o~oVo'o  Part  f*ree  iodine  is  recognized.  Water  containing  traces  of  free 
iodine  will  yield  it  to  carbon  disulphide,  etc.,  in  which  solution  it  is  recognized  by  the 
purplish  color  and  by  the  blue  color  produced  with  starch-paste.  Iodine  in  combination 
must  previously  be  liberated  by  chlorine  gas,  avoiding  an  excess  of  the  latter,  or,  if  pre- 
sent as  iodate,  sulphurous  acid  or  other  deoxidizing  agent  will  set  it  free. 

Impurities  and  Adulterations. — At  present  iodine  is  usually  met  with  in  com- 
merce in  a very  pure  condition,  containing  but  minute  quantities  of  impurities.  An 
excessive  proportion  of  water  is  indicated  by  the  iodine  adhering  to  the  bottle,  and  may 
be  removed  by  placing  it  under  a bell-glass  over  oil  of  vitriol  at  a low  temperature ; 
moist  iodine  yields  with  benzene  or  chloroform  a turbid  solution,  from  which  the  water 
gradually  separates,  the  solution  becoming  clear.  Iodine  cyanide  and  iodine  chloride  are 
rather  freely  soluble  in  water,  and  their  solutions  dissolve  iodine  with  a brown  color ; 
they  maybe  separated  by  heating  the  iodine  in  a suitable  apparatus  for  about  15  minutes 
to  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  and  cooling  the  vapors  well  ; the  former  impurity  will  sublime  as 
white  or  yellowish  needles,  the  latter  as  hyacinthine-red  prisms  or  red-brown  oil ; both 
have  a pungent  odor.  For  their  detection  the  following  processes  are  given  : “ If  0.5 
6m.  of  iodine  be  triturated  to  a fine  powder,  then  shaken  with  20  Cc.  of  water  for  a few 
minutes,  the  liquid  filtered,  and  to  one-half  of  the  filtrate,  contained  in  a test-tube, 
decinormal  sodium  thiosulphate  solution  carefully  added,  until  the  liquid  becomes  decolor- 
ized, then  a few  drops  of  solution  of  ferrous  sulphate,  and  subsequently  a little  soda  test- 
solution  added,  and  the  mixture  gently  heated,  on  finally  adding  a slight  excess  of  hydro- 
chloric acid  the  liquid  should  not  assume  a blue  color  (absence  of  iodine  cyanide').  If  to 
the  other  half  of  the  above-mentioned  filtrate,  contained  in  a test-tube,  a slight  excess  of 
silver  nitrate  test-solution  be  added,  and  the  mixture  actively  shaken,  then,  after  sub- 
sidence of  the  precipitate,  the  clear,  supernatant  liquid  be  carefully  and  completely 
decanted,  and  the  precipitate  shaken  with  a mixture  of  1 Cc.  of  ammonia-water  and  9 Cc. 
of  water,  the  filtered  liquid,  after  the  addition  of  a slight  excess  of  nitric  acid,  should  not 
become  more  than  slightly  opalescent  (absence  of  more  than  traces  of  chlorine  or  bro- 
mine).1'— U.  S.  The  following  is  the  same  test  somewhat  modified  : If  iodine  be  dissolved 
in  sulphurous  acid,  the  solution  strongly  supersaturated  with  ammonia,  and  completely 
precipitated  by  silver  nitrate,  the  filtrate,  on  being  supersaturated  with  nitric  acid, 
should  not  at  once  become  more  than  faintly  cloudy  (absence  of  more  than  traces 
of  chlorine  or  bromine).  The  amount  of  iodine  is  estimated  in  solution  with  potas- 
sium iodide  and  water  by  decolorizing  with  volumetric  solution  of  sodium  thiosulphate, 
as  follows : 

0.32  Gm.  iodine,  1.0  Gm.  potassium  iodide,  20  Cc.  water  require  25  Cc.  vol.  solution,  U.  S. 

0.20  “ “ 1.0  “ “ “ 20  “ “ “ 15  “ “ “ P.  G. 

12.7  gr.  “ 15  gr.  “ “ 1 oz.  u 11  1000  grain-measures,  Br. 

By  this  test  absolutely  pure  iodine  is  required  by  the  Br.  P.,  while  impurities  not  ex- 


10  D UM. 


889 


ceeding  1.15  per  cent,  are  permitted  by  the  U.  S.  P.  and  P.  G.  Fixed  impurities,  such 
as  graphite,  charcoal,  sawdust,  metallic  compounds,  etc.,  are  left  behind  on  volatilizing  a 
little  iodine  from  a porcelain  capsule. 

Compounds  of  Iodine. — Iodine  combines  in  several  proportions  with  oxygen,  the  most  import- 
ant compound  being  iodic  acid ; it  unites  with  hydrogen  to  hydriodic  acid,  and  combines  with 
most  of  the  other  elements  and  with  many  organic  compounds. 

The  iodides  of  metals  are  partly  crystallizable,  and  are  either  white  or  not  unfrequently  of  a 
bright  color.  With  the  exception  of  those  of  gold  and  allied  metals,  they  are  mostly  not  decom- 
posed by  heat,  except  in  contact  with  air  or  with  oxidizing  agents.  The  alkali  iodides  are  more 
volatile  than  the  corresponding  chlorides,  and  on  being  heated  with  calcium  sulphate  in  the  air 
evolve  iodine,  while  alkali  sulphate  and  calcium  oxide  remain  behind.  The  iodides  are  decom- 
posed by  chlorine,  bromine,  nitric  acid,  and  strong  sulphuric  acid,  and  on  being  heated  with  acid 
sulphates.  Most  of  the  iodides  are  soluble  in  water,  and  these  solutions  are  precipitated  dingy 
white  by  cuprous  and  cupric  salts,  the  latter  liberating  a portion  of  the  iodine  ; bright  yellow 
by  lead  salts ; brown  by  bismuth  salts ; green-yellow  by  mercurous  salts ; scarlet-red  by 
mercuric  salts ; yellowish-white  by  silver  salts  ; yellow  or  green  with  gold  salts  ; black  with 
palladium  salts  ; and  dark-brown  by  platinum  salts,  the  solution  acquiring  at  first  a deep  brown- 
purple  color. 

1.  Iodi  bromidum.  Bromide  of  iodine,  Iodine  pentabromide,  Bromure  d'iode,  Fr. ; Jodbromid, 
G.  I Br5. — Iodine  pentabromide  is  prepared  by  dissolving  20  parts  of  iodine  in  63  parts  of 
bromine,  and  heating  the  solution  for  sometime  in  a large  flask  to  about  60°  C.  (140°  F.)  until  it 
yields  a clear  solution  with  6 or  8 parts  of  water.  It  is  a dark  reddish-brown  liquid,  resembling 
bromine  in  appearance  and  sensible  properties,  but  yielding  a perfectly  transparent  brown-red 
solution  with  less  than  6 parts  of  water.  In  the  presence  of  a small  quantity  of  water  and  at  a 
low  temperature  the  hydrate  crystallizes  in  brown-yellow  needles  or  prisms,  melting  again  at 
4°  C.  (39.2°  F.),  with  separation  of  water.  A solution  containing  15  percent,  of  the  bromide  is 
found  in  commerce.  When  the  compound  is  kept  for  sometime  at  or  above  63°  C.  (145.4°  F.), 
the  boiling-point  of  bromine,  a portion  of  the  latter  distils  off,  and  iodine  monobromide,  IBr.,  is 
left  as  a dark-brown  sublimable  crystalline  mass.  Iodine  tribromide,  IBr3,  may  be  prepared  by 
using  only  37.8  parts  of  bromine  for  every  20  parts  of  iodine.  The  pentabromide  is  used  locally 
in  diphtheria  in  solution  of  2 drops  to  a fluid  ounce  of  mucilage. 

2.  Iodi  chloridum.  Chloride  of  iodine,  Iodine  trichloride,  E. ; Chlorure  d'iode,  Fr. ; 
Jodtrichlorid,  Dreifach-Chlorjod,  G.  IC13. — If  dry  chlorine  gas  be  passed  over  dry  iodine  union 
of  the  two  elements  takes  place,  a liquid  results,  and  iodine  monochloride  will  have  been  formed  ; 
the  end  of  the  reaction  may  be  determined  by  ascertaining  the  proper  increase  in  weight  of  the 
iodine.  IC13  is  a reddish-brown  liquid  which  in  the  course  of  time  deposits  crystals,  melting  at 
25°  C.  (77°  F.).  If  the  process  be  somewhat  modified,  so  that  dry  iodine  be  sublimed  in  vessels 
containing  a constant  excess  of  dry  chlorine  gas,  iodine  trichloride  will  be  formed,  and  is  obtained 
in  the  form  of  orange-yellow  needles  having  the  spec,  gravity  3.11,  and  gradually  changing  to 
large  transparent  rhombic  plates.  It  has  a penetrating,  pungent  odor,  resembling  bromine  ; 
when  heated  to  25°  C.  (77°  F.)  it  liquefies,  and  is  decomposed,  chlorine  being  given  off  and 
iodine  monochloride  formed.  Iodine  trichloride  is  soluble  in  5 parts  of  water  and  also  in  alcohol 
and  ether ; a concentrated  aqueous  solution  keeps  well,  but  a diluted  aqueous  or  an  alcoholic 
solution  gradually  changes  even  in  the  cold.  If  concentrated  sulphuric  acid  be  added  to  a strong 
aqueous  solution,  a white  curdy  precipitate  will  form,  which  is  iodine  trichloride,  and  soon 
assumes  the  characteristic  orange-yellow  color.  Iodine  trichloride  contains  54.39  per  cent  of 
iodine  and  45.61  per  cent,  of  chlorine,  and  has  been  employed  internally  in  doses  of  about  £ 
grain  and  externally  in  aqueous  solution  (tn-F  per  cent.)  as  lotion  or  injection. 

3.  Iodozoxe  is  the  name  given  by  Robin  to  a solution  of  iodine  in  ozone.  It  is  recommended 
to  be  used  as  a spray  in  pulmonary  tuberculosis  and  on  open  wounds. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Phenolum  iodatum.  Iodized  phenol,  recommended  by 
Hr.  R.  Battey  (1876),  is  prepared  by  combining  with  a gentle  heat  1 part  of  iodine  with 
2 parts  of  crystallized  carbolic  acid.  It  is  solid  in  cool  weather.  (See  also  page  39). 

Syrup  of  Iodotannin.  Debauque  observed  that  a solution  of  tannin  will  dissolve  a 
considerable  amount  of  iodine  without  reacting  with  starch.  Demolon  has  suggested  a 
syrup  containing  this  compound,  which  is  made  by  dissolving  3 Gm.  of  iodine  and  18  Gm. 
of  tannin  in  300  Gm.  of  water,  evaporating  the  solution  until  60  Gm.  are  left,  which  are 
mixed  with  960  Gm.  of  simple  syrup. 

Action  and  Uses. — Applied  to  the  skin  in  ointment  or  in  solution,  iodine  occasions 
a sense  of  warmth  in  the  part,  which,  if  the  preparation  be  very  strong,  may  amount  to 
painful  burning  and  cause  redness  and  swelling  of  the  surrounding  integument.  The 
tincture  stains  the  skin  a brownish-yellow  ; the  color  is  more  or  less  permanent,  and  may 
only  disappear  with  exfoliation  of  the  cuticle.  It  may  be  removed  by  solution  of 
ammonia  and  by  other  articles  mentioned  below.  It  has  generally  been  believed  that 
iodine  is  absorbed  by  the  skin,  but  carefully-conducted  experiments  appear  to  show  that, 
at  least  in  adults,  when  efficient  means  are  taken  to  prevent  the  iodine  vapors  from  reach- 
ing the  mouth  and  nostrils,  no  trace  of  the  substance  can  be  found  in  the  secretions. 


890 


10DUM. 


The  rare  cases  of  alleged  poisoning  by  the  application  of  iodine  to  the  unbroken  skin  are 
contradicted  by  the  experiments  referred  to.  Dr.  Culpepper  of  Barbadoes  has  reported 
the  case  of  a negro  boy,  eleven  years  old,  whose  legs  from  the  knees  to  the  ankles  were 
painted  with  tincture  of  iodine  for  the  relief  of  eczema.  Not  until  twenty-four  hours 
later  did  constitutional  symptoms  arise.  They  consisted  of  headache  and  pain  over  the 
loins  and  bladder.  Then  followed  vomiting,  thirst,  diarrhoea,  suppression  of  urine,  pri- 
apism, and  hiccough.  Later,  diarrhoea  set  in  ; the  temperature  was  not  raised  and  the 
skin  was  dry.  Then  the  stools  became  bloody,  without  pain.  At  the  end  of  about  six 
days  death  by  exhaustion  took  place  ( Therap . Gaz .,  xii.  225).  In  children,  however,  the 
tincture  of  iodine  applied  to  the  unbroken  scalp  is  said  to  have  been  absorbed,  since  its 
presence  was  detected  in  the  urine,  which,  at  the  same  time,  became  slightly  albuminous. 
The  case  of  a woman  who  on  the  light  application  of  tincture  of  iodine  to  a tumor 
between  tbe  scapulae  was  seized  with  epigastric  pain  and  oppression,  weakness,  trembling, 
sweating,  dribbling  of  urine,  and  inability  to  stand  erect  ( Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour., 
July,  1884,  p.  4),  seems  to  have  been  one  of  nervous  apprehension  merely.  A case  in 
which  “ iodine  ” was  rubbed  into  the  skin,  producing  great  depression  and  sickness,  besides 
a bullar  eruption,  is  wanting  in  details  (Med.  Record , xxxviii.  43). 

The  raw  cutis,  the  mucous  and  the  serous  membranes,  and  the  connective  tissue  give 
iodine  ready  access  to  the  blood.  It  does  not  usually  occasion  severe  inflammation  when 
so  applied,  perhaps  from  the  rapidity  of  its  absorption.  When  the  vapors  of  iodine  are 
inhaled  they  irritate  the  mucous  membranes  and  occasion  headache,  coryza,  lachrymation, 
and  cough.  Their  prolonged  operation,  as  in  certain  manufactures,  gives  rise  to  dryness 
of  the  respiratory  tract,  dizziness,  nervous  disorder,  etc.  Absorbed  iodine  is  readily 
detected,  combined  with  sodium  or  potassium,  in  the  blood,  milk,  tears,  saliva,  urine,  ser- 
ous effusions  in  closed  cavities,  etc.  It  is  excreted  chiefly  by  the  kidneys  as  an  alkaline 
iodide,  even  when  it  is  taken  into  the  stomach,  and  sometimes  it  occasions  a temporary 
albuminuria.  When  given  in  full  doses  the  tincture  of  iodine  will  sometimes  occasion 
the  coryza  which  is  one  of  the  usual  effects  of  potassium  iodide. 

The  direct  effects  of  large  doses  of  iodine  Gm.  0.30  (gr.  v-vj),  taken  internally,  are 
those  of  an  irritant  poison,  such  as  heat  and  constriction  of  the  throat,  nausea,  eructa- 
tion, salivation,  epigastric  pain,  vomiting,  diarrhoea,  and  collapse.  If  reaction  takes 
place,  the  skin  is  apt  to  become  intensely  red.  Notwithstanding  the  great  severity  of  the 
symptoms,  the  death  of  a previously  healthy  person  by  the  internal  use  of  iodine  is 
extremely  rare.  In  1888  it  was  said  that  to  that  date  only  six  fatal  cases  of  iodine- 
poisoning were  known  ( Zeitsch . f Idin.  Med.,  xiv.  472).  Dr.  Collins  in  1889  reported 
the  case  of  a young  woman  who  had  swallowed  half  an  ounce  of  tincture  of  iodine  when 
the  stomach  was  empty.  Almost  immediately  starch  was  administered,  followed  by  a 
mustard  emetic  and  warm  water.  No  untoward  consequences  resulted  (Med.  Record , 
xxxvi.  98). 

In  the  following  description  of  the  internal  uses  of  iodine  its  tinctures  are  intended 
unless  it  is  otherwise  stated.  In  intermittent  fever  iodine  has  been  thought  to  display 
decidedly  curative  virtues  both  in  the  malarial  regions  of  the  tropics  and  in  those  of  the 
temperate  zones  (Concetti,  Centralbl.  f.  d.g.  Ther .,  xx.  73  ; Hendricks,  Ther.  Gaz.,  x.  193). 
The  tincture  was  given  in  doses  of  from  Gm.  0.30-1.00  (5  to  15  minims)  three  times 
a day,  largely  diluted.  The  compound  tincture  may  be  given  in  doses  one-half  larger. 
The  reports  published  by  Gibbons,  Grinnell,  Wadsworth,  Atkinson,  and  Woods  do  not 
justify  a favorable  judgment  of  iodine  in  this  disease.  The  two  last-named  physicians, 
whose  field  of  observation  was  Baltimore,  concluded  that  in  intermittent  and  remittent 
fevers  iodine  “ is  infinitely  inferior  to  either  cinchonidine  or  quinine  ” (Amer.  Jour,  of 
Med.  Sci .,  July,  1883,  p.  77).  TgpJioid  fever  and  other  febrile  affections  have  been 
treated  by  iodine,  but  without  evident  advantage.  A physician  has  so  far  forgotten  what 
is  due  to  the  authority  of  experience  as  to  allege  that  “ in  simple,  uncomplicated  croupous 
pneumonia  ” half-drop  doses  of  tincture  of  iodine  given  hourly  “ will  arrest  the  further 
progress  of  the  disease”  (London  Med.  Record,  May  15,  1881).  Mercurial  salivation 
may  be  diminished  by  its  internal  use.  Iodide  of  potassium  is  less  certain  in  its 
effects ; if  we  might  reason  from  its  evident  power  of  reviving  mercury  long  quiescent, 
in  the  system,  its  action  should  be  mischievous  when  mercurial  salivation  already  exists. 
Constitutional  syphilis  has  sometimes  been  treated  with  iodine,  but  the  potassic  iodide  has 
supplanted  it  in  this  respect.  Hypertrophy  of  glandular  organs  is  often  reduced  by 
iodine,  especially  of  the  mammae,  testes,  liver,  and  spleen,  and  of  the  thyroid  gland  in 
goitre.  Indeed,  it  is  probable  that  all  cases  of  true  goitre  in  persons  under  middle  age  are 


IODUM. 


891 


curable  by  the  internal  administration  of  iodine.  For  this  purpose  the  compound  solu- 
tion should  be  administered  in  doses  of  from  5 to  10  drops  (Gm.  0.30-0.60)  three  times 
a day.  Its  topical  use  is  considered  below.  Its  action  upon  the  other  organs  mentioned, 
unless  perhaps  the  mammae,  is  more  equivocal.  It  has  been  used  to  reduce  polysarcia. 
In  all  cases  care  should  be  taken  to  prevent  the  medicine  from  injuring  the  stomach  by 
giving  it  largely  diluted,  while  its  internal  is  supplemented  by  its  external  use  in  proper 
cases.  In  scrofula  iodine  is  most  efficient  in  the  glandular  forms  unconnected  with  a 
characteristic  deposit;  over  the  latter  it  has  no  direct  influence.  On  the  other  hand,  it 
is  of  great  service  in  promoting  the  healing  of  scrofulous  ulcers  and  curing  caries  of  the 
same  nature,  especially  in  the  chronic  stages  of  that  process.  Anderson  recommends 
iodide  of  starch  (iodine  gr.  xxiv  ; starch  ^j),  in  doses  of  a heaped  teaspoonful  three  times 
daily,  as  a remedy  for  lupus  erythematodes , but  not  for  lupus  vulgaris.  There  is  reason 
to  believe  that  even  tabes  mesenterica , or  scrofula  of  the  mesenteric  glands,  may  some- 
times be  cured,  and  often  palliated,  by  this  medicine,  especially  if  it  is  given,  as  in  other 
scrofulous  affections,  with  cod-liver  oil.  In  some  cases  of  ascites  depending  upon  obstruc- 
tion of  the  spleen,  liver,  or  mesenteric  glands  iodine  has  proved  curative,  but  in  such 
cases  iodide  of  potassium  is  preferable.  Chronic  articular  rheumatism , and  that 
peculiar  disease  known  as  nodosity  of  the  joints , have* been  treated  with  iodine  internally, 
the  former  more  successfully  than  the  latter.  Excessive  lactation  has  been  controlled  by 
this  agent  in  small  and  repeated  doses,  which  are  also  sometimes  successful  in  arresting 
the  vomiting  of  pregnancy.  The  dose  in  the  latter  case  should  not  exceed  Gm.  0.10— 
0.15  (2  or  3 drops)  of  the  tincture,  and  should  be  largely  diluted.  (Compare  Stille, 
Therapeutics , 1874,  ii.  875  ; Med.  Record , xxxii.  422.)  Gaunt  (Amer.  Jour,  of  Med. 
Sci .,  Apr.  1883,  p.  413)  used  this  method  in  almost  every  other  form  of  vomiting , 
whether  arising  from  indigestion,  phthisis,  hysteria,  intoxication,  nephritis,  or  cholera 
infantum,  etc.,  and  with  uniform  success.  (Compare  Darthier,  Lancet , Jan.  1890,  p.  144  ; 
Roques,  Amer.  Jour,  of  Med.  Sci.,  Mar.  1890,  p.  285.)  Uterine  disorders  indicating 
impaired  activity  of  function  sometimes  appear  to  be  benefited  by  the  use  of  iodine. 

As  a topical  application  it  is  used  both  for  its  counter-irritant  and  its  constitutional 
effects.  Erysipelas , when  superficial,  has  often  been  arrested  by  the  use  of  the  tinctures 
of  iodine,  and,  as  far  as  any  local  treatment  can  go,  they  would  seem  preferable  to  solu- 
tions of  nitrate  of  silver  and  other  more  or  less  caustic  lotions.  In  small-pox  it  appears 
to  retard  the  maturation  of  the  vesicles,  or  even  to  prevent  it  altogether,  and  in  addition 
to  avert  pitting.  But  its  operation  is  not  too  confidently  to  be  relied  on.  For  this  pur- 
pose a solution  of  tincture  of  iodine  30  parts,  glycerin  60  parts,  and  iodide  of  potassium 
i part  has  been  recommended.  Lieutenant  Payer  states  that  a mixture  of  iodine  and 
collodion  proved  most  efficacious  against  frost-bite  during  the  Arctic  voyage  of  the 
Tegethoff  in  1872.  In  burns  and  scalds  its  stimulant,  substitutive,  and  protective  opera- 
tions are  often  useful,  and  the  same  may  be  said  of  certain  cutaneous  diseases,  as 
psoriasis , herpes , acne,  favus,  and  lupus.  Its  substitutive  action  in  the  case  of  acne  seems 
to  be  proven  by  the  fact  that  when  this  eruption  is  caused  by  iodine  the  contents  of  the 
pustules  have  been  found  to  give  the  iodic  reaction  with  starch  (Bull,  de  Tlierap., 
xcvii.  335).  It  is  most  efficient  before  the  suppurative  stage,  and  introduced  upon  a 
probe  through  an  aperture  made  by  a needle  in  the  papule.  In  favus  and  lupus  a 
saturated  solution  of  iodine  in  alcohol  must  be  employed.  The  stimulant  operation  of 
iodine,  as  well  as  its  deodorizing  influence,  is  useful  in  ozsena  ; it  is  a valuable  agent  for 
inhalation  in  chronic  affections  of  the  air-passages,  and  especially  in  laryngitis  and  bron- 
chitis, both  in  their  original  form  and  in  that  which  accompanies  phthisis.  Like  other 
local  irritants,  it  may  cure  aphonia  depending  upon  relaxation  of  the  vocal  cords  or  upon 
nervous  debility.  For  laryngeal  ulcers  the  direct  application  of  the  compound  or  the 
simple  tincture  is  preferable  to  the  inhalation  of  iodic  spray  or  vapor.  Iodine  has  been 
used  topically  in  diphtheria,  and  probably  with  more  advantage  in  this  way  than  nitrate 
of  silver.  It  is  claimed  that  doses  of  from  5 to  7 minims  of  tincture  of  iodine  every 
hour  or  two  hours  for  adults,  and  for  children  between  six  and  twelve  years  2 or  3 
minims  every  two  hours  in  quince  or  orange  syrup,  produce  a striking  improvement  of 
the  general  and  local  symptoms  of  the  disease  within  thirty-six  hours  ( Practitioner , 
xxx.v.  16).  It  is  a most  valuable  topical  agent  in  leucorrhcea , vaginal  or  uterine,  and  in 
chronic  engorgements  of  the  uterus.  The  same  may  be  said  of  its  utility  in  gleet,  chronic 
vesical  catarrh,  and  chronic  dysentery.  A gargle  made  with  half  an  ounce  of  compound 
tincture  of  iodine  in  half  a pint  of  water  is  efficient  in  mercurial  ptyalism,  and  a weak 
solution,  as  of  1 grain  of  iodine  in  an  ounce  of  water,  is  one  of  the  best  means  of  retard- 
ing or  curing  retraction  of  the  gums.  A strong  solution  of  iodine  forms  one  of  the  best 


892 


IODUM. 


applications  to  chronic  ulcers  of  the  tonsils,  fauces,  and  uterus,  in  granular  pharyngitis  and 
conjunctivitis,  and  in  blepharitis. 

As  a topical  application,  also,  it  sometimes  promotes  the  removal  of  pleural  effusions, 
and  is  adapted  to  relieve  muscular  rheumatism  and  neuralgia  of  the  chest,  and  probably 
to  mitigate  chronic  peritonitis.  Injected  into  the  tunica  vaginalis  testis,  the  tincture  of 
iodine,  diluted  with  2 parts,  or,  as  Billroth  prefers,  1 part,  of  water,  has  long  been  used 
for  the  cure  of  hydrocele.  Its  superiority  has,  however,  been  contested  (Allis,  Med.  News , 
lvii.  503).  In  like  manner,  it  has  been  employed  to  procure  adhesion  of  the  opposite 
sides  of  other  serous  cavities,  such  as  hernial  sacs,  synovial  bursae,  and  even  large  joints, 
as  in  the  cases  of  white  swelling  or  hydrarthrosis.  But  in  the  last-named  affection 
the  weight  of  authority  is  against  its  use  as  tending  to  a fatal  result.  Ascites  independent 
of  organic  mechanical  causes  has  been  cured  in  this  manner,  but,  as  such  cases  are 
extremely  rare,  the  evidence  in  regard  to  the  value  of  the  operation  is  scanty.  When 
paracentesis  is  practised  in  chronic  pleurisy,  tincture  of  iodine  is  often  injected,  either  to 
hasten  the  adhesion  of  the  opposite  pleural  surfaces  or  to  correct  the  fetor  of  the  pleural 
secretion,  or  both  at  once.  In  recent  cases  the  injection  may  consist  of  a solution  of  iodine 
in  the  proportion  of  2 to  5 grains  in  a pint  (Gm.  0.10—0.30  in  Gm.  500)  of  water;  in 
more  chronic  ones  a solution  of  1 part  of  the  compound  tincture  of  iodine  to  4 or  5 of 
water  has  sometimes  been  used.  A similar  method  has  been  employed  unsuccessfully  in 
hydrocephalus.  Numerous  cases  are  recorded  of  the  cure  of  spina  bifida  by  means  of 
iodic  injections,  and,  among  the  more  notable,  those  of  McWhatt  ( Edinb . Med.  Jour., 
xxvi.  321),  Gould  and  Clutton  ( Trans . of  Clinical  Soc.  of  London,  xi.  75;  xv.  191; 
xvi.  34),  and  Thiersch  ( Boston  Med.  and  Sure/.  Jour.,  May,  1881,  p.  502).  In  England 
the  following  solution  was  employed : Iodine  gr.  x ; iodide  of  potassium  gr.  xxx ; 
glycerin  ^j.  Of  this  about  1 drachm  was  injected  at  each  operation,  and  gentle  but  firm 
pressure  by  means  of  collodion  and  bandages  constantly  maintained.  A portion  of  the 
liquid  was  first  removed  by  aspiration.  According  to  a report  made  to  the  Clinical 
Society  of  London  in  1886,  out  of  71  cases  35  recovered,  27  died,  4 were  relieved,  and 
5 were  unrelieved.  Injection  of  the  tinctures  of  iodine  has  been  extensively  used  in  the 
case  of  cysts  containing  either  serum,  pus,  blood,  hydatids,  or  melicerous  or  atheromatous 
matter.  In  the  case  of  ovarian  serous  cysts  the  operation  has  been  remarkably  success- 
ful when  the  tumor  was  unilocular.  The  puncture  for  evacuating  the  cyst  and  injecting 
the  iodic  liquid  should  be  made  above  Poupart’s  ligament.  Fibrous  tumors  of  the  uterus 
have  been  treated  with  iodine  both  topically  and  internally,  and,  although  in  some  cases 
there  has  appeared  to  be  an  arrest  or  even  a subsidence  of  the  growth,  the  treatment 
cannot  be  depended  upon  to  secure  either.  Since  1863,  when  Luton  made  better  known 
the  treatment  of  penchymatous  and  fibrous  goitres,  they  have  been  frequently  cured  by 
injections  of  tincture  of  iodine  (French  Codex).  As  long  as  the  liquid  does  not  reach 
the  loose  connective  tissue  it  causes,  but  little  reaction.  In  most  cases  the  cure  proceeds 
slowly  during  weeks  or  even  months,  and  necessitates  repeated  injections  at  intervals  of 
from  five  to  fifteen  days.  In  fibrous  goitres  the  results  are  less  favorable  than  in  the 
parenchymatous  variety,  but,  even  where  the  operation  does  not  remove  the  tumor,  it 
often  improves  the  power  of  breathing,  etc.  (Terrillon  et  Sebileau,  Archives  gen.,  Janv. 
and  Fev.  1887,  p.  22,  167 : compare  Stoudentsky,  Therap.  Gaz.,  xiii.  72 ; Thyssen, 
Centralbl.  f Therap.,  vii.  277 ; Terrillon,  Bull,  de  Therap .,  cxvii.  241).  Indolent 
abscesses  and  fistulae  of  all  kinds  are  curable  by  injections  of  a solution  of  iodine,  which 
appears  to  act  by  covering  the  diseased  surface  with  a protecting  film,  by  stimulating  the 
curative  processes,  and  by  correcting  the  fetor  of  the  secretions.  In  the  first  and  last 
respects  iodine  is  superior  to  nitrate  of  silver.  It  has  been  found  a valuable  application 
to  carbuncles.  The  tincture  of  iodine  has  also  been  injected  into  pulmonary  cavities  by 
means  of  the  needles  usually  attached  to  aspirators,  and  the  result  appears  to  be  that  the 
operation  is  less  mischievous  than  might  have  been  expected.  Indeed,  in  some  cases 
where  a single  superficial  cavity  existed  the  expectoration  and  general  symptoms  have 
for  a time  abated.  In  malignant  pustule  tincture  of  iodine  has  been  administered 
internally,  and  also  injected  subcutaneously  around  the  inflamed  part,  and  apparently 
with  excellent  results  (j Practitioner,  xxix.  290  ; Archives  gen.,  Feb.  1882,  p.  204).  A 
case  is  reported  in  which  severe  inflammation  produced  by  the  fumes  of  cashew-nut 
(Anacardium  occidentale)  was  treated  without  advantage  with  lotions  of  bicarbonate  of 
sodium  and  cold  water,  but  at  once  subsided  under  the  topical  use  of  tincture  of  iodine. 
The  application  was  very  painful  (Amer.  Jour.  Pliar.,  June,  1881,  p.  281).  Iodine  has 
been  used  in  the  treatment  of  poisoned  wounds,  and  is  probably  one  of  the  most  trust- 
worthy applications  to  wounds  made  by  venomous  serpents.  Brainard  formerly  testified 


IPECACUANHA. 


893 


to  the  efficacy  of  iodine  as  a local  antidote  to  the  rattlesnake’s  venom,  but  Dr.  S.  W. 
Mitchell’s  experiments  led  him  to  an  opposite  conclusion.  Dr.  G.  H.  Carpenter  of  West 
Virginia  published  several  cases  in  which  the  use  of  iodine  locally  and  internally  seemed 
to  counteract  the  poison  of  the  copperhead  snake  {Med.  News , xlii.  441).  One  physician 
refers  to  twenty-five  cases  of  bites  by  rabid  animals  in  which  the  wounds  were  treated  by 
a strong  solution  of  iodine  until  active  suppuration  took  place.  In  not  one  of  these 
cases  did  rabies  occur  (Mussey).  Although  the  evidence  so  far  is  entirely  negative, 
there  is  much  reason  to  believe  that  iodine  must  be  superior  to  the  other  caustics  used 
in  such  cases  with  the  hope  of  preventing  hydrophobia.  Iodide  of  starch  has  been 
recommended  by  Bellini  as  an  antidote  to  ingested  poisons  generally.  It  is  free  from  any 
disagreeable  taste,  and,  not  being  an  irritant,  can  be  administered  in  large  doses  {Boston 
Med,  and  Surg.  Jour.,  Aug.  1879,  p.  267).  Diluted  compound  tincture  of  iodine  is  said 
to  have  been  used  successfully  to  dissolve  a splinter  of  iron  imbedded  in  the  cornea 
( Practitioner , xxviii.  377). 

The  best  antidote  for  a poisonous  dose  of  an  iodic  preparation  is  starch  or  wheaten 
flour  mixed  with  tepid  water.  White  of  egg  and  also  milk  are  efficient.  A solution  of 
carbonate  or  bicarbonate  of  sodium  may  be  given  as  a chemical  antidote.  Free  vomiting 
should  be  encouraged  as  long  as  the  liquid  rejected  tinges  blue  a solution  of  starch.  Opi- 
ates, counter-irritants,  and  repose  of  the  stomach  are  indicated  to  allay  gastric  irritation. 

The  dose  of  iodine  is  represented  by  about  Gm.  0.016  (gr.  i).  It  is  seldom  given,  in 
substance,  by  the  stomach.  Its  vapors  are  sometimes  inhaled  in  laryngeal  and  pulmonary 
affections,  and  externally  it  is  applied  to  the  skin  as  iodized  cotton  or  in  bags  or  pads 
containing  it  in  powder,  and  without  an  impermeable  covering.  To  attenuate  the  local 
action  of  iodized  cotton  applied  to  the  ear,  vagina,  etc.,  a wad  of  this  material  may  be 
wrapped  in  simple  cotton  wadding  and  left  in  situ.  These  methods  are  more  efficient  than 
painting  the  part  with  solutions  of  iodine.  The  discoloration  of  the  skin  produced  by  it 
may  be  removed  by  ammonia,  carbolic  acid,  soap  liniment,  or  the  sulphites,  the  bisul- 
phites, or  the  alkaline  hyposulphites.  For  internal  administration  the  compound  tincture 
is  to  be  preferred,  for  the  simple  tincture  is  precipitated  by  water.  The  remarkable 
solubility  of  iodine  in  oil  of  bitter  almonds,  and  the  permanency  of  their  union,  render  this 
solution  convenient  for  topical  application  and  for  addition  to  other  preparations  for 
internal  administration,  and  especially  to  cod-liver  oil.  Gm.  1.30  (gr.  xx)  of  iodine  will 
in  the  course  of  two  months  become  perfectly  dissolved  in  Gm.  4 (60  grains)  of  oil  of 
bitter  almonds.  Of  this  solution  Gm.  1 (gr.  xv)  may  be  added  to  cod-liver  oil  Gm.  500 
(1  pint).  A teaspoonful  of  this  solution  contains  about  Gm.  0.002  (gr.  of  iodine  and 
Gm.  0.006  (gr.  ^)  of  oil  of  bitter  almonds  (Blackwell). 

Iodozone,  a solution  of  iodine  in  ozone,  has  been  suggested  to  be  used  as  a spray  for 
unhealthy  wounds  and  for  pulmonary  diseases. 

Iodopyrine  has  been  found  objectionable  on  account  of  the  rapid  disengagement  of 
iodine  from  it. 


IPECACUANHA,  U.  S.,  Br.— Ipecacuanha. 

Radix  ipecacuanhas , P.  G. — Ipecac , E.  : Ipecacuanha  annele  {officinale),  Fr.  Cod. — Ra- 
cine bresilienne,  Fr.  ; Brechwurzel,  Ruhrwurzel , G. ; Ipecacuanha  officinal,  Sp. 

The  root  of  Cephaelis  (Uragoga,  Baillon ) Ipecacuanha,  A.  Richard,  C.  emetica,  Per- 
soon,  Callicocca  Ipecacuanha,  Brotero.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  145. 

Nat.  Ord. — Rubiaceae,  Coffeae. 

Origin. — The  drug  first  became  known  in  Europe  in  1672,  and  a few  years  after  was 
successully  employed  by  Helvetius,  a Dutch  physician  living  in  Paris,  from  whom  (in 
1688)  Louis  XIV.  purchased  the  secret  for  1000  louisdors  and  made  it  public.  Two 
varieties  of  the  plant  are  known — one  with  a woody  and  the  other  with  an  herbaceous 
stem — both  being  indigenous  to  the  damp  forests  of  Brazil,  New  Granada,  and  the  north- 
eastern portion  of  Bolivia,  between  about  8°  and  22°  S.  lat.  The  plant  has  a spreading 
root,  a stem  30  to  45  Cm.  (12  to  18  inches)  high,  opposite,  nearly  entire,  and  somewhat 
hairy  leaves,  and  small  white  flowers  in  a dense  head,  followed  by  a cluster  of  dark 
purplish-blue  berry-like  fruits,  each  containing  two  plano-convex  hard  nuts.  The  plant 
has  been  introduced  into  India,  and  is  cultivated  to  some  extent  in  Sikkim  with  but 
moderate  success.  In  Brazil  the  roots  are  collected  at  all  seasons,  but  principally  from 
January  to  March  ; they  are  dug  up  by  means  of  a stick  and  pulling  the  stems,  frag- 
ments of  the  roots  remaining,  which  again  produce  plants  from  adventitious  buds.  The 
roots  are  dried  in  the  sun,  and  finally  packed  in  bales. 


894 


IPECACUANHA. 


Description. — The  young,  thin,  and  thread-like  Fig.  161. 

roots  are  rejected ; the  older  roots  are  in 
pieces  of  2 to  6 inches  (5-15  Cm.)  in 
length  and  about  jr  inch  (4  Mm.)  thick ; 
are  mostly  simple,  bent,  and  contorted, 
and  externally  usually  of  a dull-gray 
color,  but  occasionally  of  a reddish  or 
blackish  tint.  The  root  consists  of  a 
thin,  toughish,  white,  and  finely-porous 
ligneous  cord,  with  no  distinct  medullary 
rays,  and  of  a thick,  brittle  bark,  which 
is  finely  wrinkled  and  closely  annulated 
by  projecting  circles,  the  depressions 
between  the  rings  being  often  fissured 
to  the  wood.  The  root  breaks  with  a 
whitish  granular  and  waxy  fracture  in 
the  bark,  which  constitutes  75  to  80  per 
cent,  of  the  weight  and  is  easily  sep- 
arable from  the  wood.  The  bark  con- 
sists, aside  from  the  thin  cork-layer, 
ipecacuanha.  altogether  of  parenchyma,  without  any 
radiating  arrangement,  the  cells  being  filled  with  small 
starch-granules  and  becoming  smaller  near  the  wood  ; the 
latter  has  a radiating  arrangement,  and  is  composed  of 
more  or  less  elongated  and  fusiform,  rather  thick-walled, 
and  pitted  wood-cells,  containing  starch  and  having  upon 
transverse  section  a nearly  quadrangular  shape.  A va- ipecacuanha-root,  transverse  section,  mag- 
riety  imported  from  Carthagena  is  usually  thicker,  about 

6 Mm.  (i  inch)  in  diameter,  less  conspicuously  annulated,  and  with  more  distinct  medul- 
lary rays.  Small  portions  of  the  thin  non-annulated  stem  are  not  unfrequently  found 
attached  to  some  of  the  commercial  roots.  The  odor  of  ipecacuanha  is  slight,  but  heavy 
and  nauseous,  and  the  taste  bitterish,  somewhat  acrid,  and  nauseating.  The  root  yields 
a light  brown-gray  powder.  When  ipecac  is  sound  and  free  from  mouldiness,  its  quality 
is  proportionate  to  the  thickness  of  the  bark  and  the  thinness  of  the  ligneous  portion. 

Constituents. — The  important  principle  of  the  root  is  the  alkaloid  emetia  or  eme- 
tine, which  is  combined  with  ipecacuanhic  acid.  Emetine  was  discovered  in  1817  by 
Pelletier  and  Magendie,  and  is  obtained  by  evaporating  the  alcoholic  tincture  of  the  root 
to  a syrupy  consistence,  adding  potassa  in  excess  and  in  a well-filled  bottle  to  prevent 
access  of  air,  and  agitating  with  chloroform  ; the  chloroformic  solution  is  evaporated,  the 
residue  treated  with  a weak  acid,  filtered  from  the  resinous  matter,  and  precipitated  by 
ammonia.  Lefort  takes  advantage  of  the  insolubility  of  the  nitrate,  which  is  thrown  down 
from  a strong  solution  of  the  extract  by  a concentrated  solution  of  potassium  nitrate ; it 
is  dissolved  in  alcohol,  decomposed  by  milk  of  lime,  the  alkaloid  taken  up  by  ether,  and 
purified  as  above.  It  is  a grayish  or  whitish  inodorous  powder  having  a bitter  taste  and 
an  alkaline  reaction  to  test-paper.  It  is  sparingly  soluble  in  cold  water,  freely  so  in 
alcohol  and  chloroform,  less  soluble  in  ether,  benzene,  benzin,  and  fixed  oils.  Nitric  acid 
or  nitrates  yield  with  it  a slightly  soluble  brown  salt ; other  dilute  acids  dissolve  it 
readily,  and  yield  mostly  non-crystallizable  salts,  the  solutions  of  which  are  precipitated  by 
the  general  reagents  for  alkaloids  and  by  potassium  nitrate  at  70°  0.  (158°  F.).  Emetine 
fuses  like  wax,  and  at  a higher  heat  burns  without  leaving  a residue.  Its  formula, 
according  to  Lefort  and  Wiirtz  (1877),  is  C28H40N2O5,  and  from  a concentrated  alcoholic 
solution  it  may  be  obtained  in  groups  of  fine  needles ; the  yield  is  little  over  1 per  cent. 
By  titration  with  Mayer’s  solution  Zenoffsky  (1872)  found  3.75  per  cent,  of  emetine; 
much  larger  yields  have  occasionally  been  reported,  but  are  probably  over-estimated. 
Power  (1877)  observed  that  emetine  is  colored  bright-yellow  or  orange  by  chlorinated 
lime ; a little  acetic  acid  favors  the  reaction,  which  is  still  observable  when  dissolved  in 
6000  parts  of  water. 

Ipecacuanhic  acid,  C14H1807,  was  by  former  investigators  supposed  to  be  identical  with 
gallic  acid.  Willigk  separated  it  from  the  precipitate  obtained  in  the  decoction  by  lead 
acetate,  by  dissolving  in  acetic  acid  and  precipitating  with  subacetate  of  lead.  It  is 
amorphous,  brown,  very  bitter,  hygroscopic,  soluble  in  alcohol,  little  so  in  ether,  colors 
ferric  salts  green,  and  is  a glucoside.  It  appears  to  be  related  to  caffeo-tannic  acid. 


IPECACUANHA. 


895 


Podwyssotzki  (1880)  named  the  coloring  principle  of  ipecacuanha  erythrocephalein , 
because  it  acquires  a deep  purple-red  color  with  alkalies.  According  to  Reich,  the  bark 
contains  about  40  per  cent,  and  the  wood  over  7 per  cent,  of  starch. 

Arndt  (1889)  obtained  a volatile  alkaloid  which  forms  colorless  cross-like  crystals  by 
distilling  ipecac,  potassium  carbonate,  ferric  chloride,  and  water.  Crystals  form  in  the 
condensor  while  the  distillate  is  alkaline  in  reaction.  The  crystals  are  fluorescent  on  the 
edges,  and  are  deliquescent.  Heated  with  sodium  hydroxide,  the  odor  of  trimethylamine 
is  evolved.  Kunz  (1887)  showed  the  presence  of  choline. 

Tests. — Mix  10  grains  of  ipecac  with  3 grains  of  lime  and  a few  drops  of  water; 
dry  in  a water-bath,  exhaust  with  2 fluidrachms  of  chloroform  containing  a minute  quan- 
tity of  acetic  acid,  evaporate  the  chloroformic  solution ; add  to  the  residue  2 drops  of 
water,  and  add  a saturated  solution  of  potassium  nitrate,  which  will  give  an  amorphous 
precipitate  to  which  Power’s  test  may  be  applied ; the  wood  treated  in  the  same  way 
gives  no  precipitate,  but  yields  with  tannin  or  potassio-mercuric  iodide  a slight  turbidity 
(Fliickiger).  “Agitate  the  powdered  root  with  5 parts  of  warm  water,  filter  after  1 hour, 
and  add  potassio-mercuric  iodide,  which  should  produce  a copious  white  amorphous  pre- 
cipitate. If  0.2  Gm.  of  ipecac  be  agitated  with  10  Gm.  of  hydrochloric  acid,  a portion 
of  the  filtrate  should  become  blue  on  the  addition  of  iodine-water,  and  another  portion 
should  become  bright-red  when  a little  chlorinated  lime  is  sprinkled  upon  it.” — P.  G. 

Adulterations. — Besides  small  portions  of  the  stem,  the  commercial  root  is  usually 
free  from  impurities,  and  the  false  ipecacuanhas  described  below  are  easily  distinguished 
from  the  above.  But  powdered  ipecacuanha  is  said  to  be  sometimes  adulterated  with 
various  farinaceous  substances  and  with  the  powder  of  other  roots,  which  may  be  detected 
by  the  microscope.  Almond  meal  has  also  been  mentioned  ; the  large  oblong  cells  of  the 
scurfy  testa  and  the  hexagonal  cells  of  the  embryo  which  are  free  from  starch,  but  con- 
tain oil-drops,  readily  characterize  it  under  the  microscope. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Emetinum  coloratum,  which  is  sometimes  used,  is  made 
by  exhausting  ipecacuanha  with  alcohol,  evaporating  the  tincture  to  a syrupy  consistence, 
diluting  with  water,  filtering,  evaporating  the  filtrate  to  dryness,  and  powdering.  The 
yield  is  about  3 per  cent. 


Fig.  162. 


Fig.  1 63. 


Allied  Drugs. — Several  emetic  roots,  known  in  South  America  as  ipecacuanha  or  by  the  Bra- 
zilian designation  poaya , have  occasionally  been  sent  to  this  country  as  substitutes ; none,  how- 
ever, have  any  particular  resemblance  to  the  cephaelis-root.  The  following,  of  which  the  plants 
yielding  the  first  three  belong  to  the  natural  order  of  Rubiaceae,  are  the  most  important : 

1.  Striated  Ipecacuanha,  from  Psychotria  (Ronobea,  Richard)  emetica,  Mutis,  is  blackish- 
gray,  longitudinally  striate  ; the  bark  has  deep  circular  fissures  at  irregular  distances  ; is  thick, 
internally  purplish-brown.  The  root  is  free  from  starch,  contains  much  sugar,  and  has  a sweet 
afterward  bitter  taste.  The  bark  consists  of  parenchyma,  which  is  not  radiating,  some  of  the 
cells  containing  acicular  crystals ; the  wood  resembles  that  of  ipecacuanha,  but  the  cells  are 
larger  and  the  cell-walls  thinner.  It  is  employed  in  New  Granada  and  Peru. 

2.  Small  Striated  Ipecacuanha,  noticed  by  Planchon  (1872), 
probably  obtained  from  a species  of  Richardsonia,  resembles  the 
preceding,  but  is  much  smaller,  grav-brown  or  blackish-brown, 
finely  striate,  has  a thick  bark,  containing  starch  ; a thin  some- 
what radiating  bast-layer  and  a thick  wood  with  thick-walled 
wood-fibres,  large  dotted  ducts,  and  very  fine  medullary  rays. 

Its  taste  is  somewhat  acrid,  not  sweet. 

3.  Undulated  Or  Farinaceous  Ipecacuanha,  from  Richard- 
sonia scabra,  Linn£,  a native  of  Brazil,  is,  in  the  fresh  state, 
white  when  dry,  brownish  externally,  and  white  farinaceous 
internally ; it  is  irregular  undulate,  fissured  on  alternate  sides, 
and  of  a somewhat  knotty  appearance.  The  non-radiating  bark- 
tissue  consists  of  parenchyma  containing  starch  ; the  wood  is 
striate  by  medullary  rays,  and  consists  of  thick-walled  wood- 
fibres  and  large  dotted  ducts. 

4.  White  Ligneous  Ipecacuanha,  from  Ionidium  Ipecacuanha, 

Ventenat  (Nat.  Ord.  Violaceae),  indigenous  to  Brazil.  The  root 
is  several-headed,  somewhat  tortuous,  not  annulate,  light-gray 
or  yellowish,  internally  whitish,  and  with  a yellowish,  finely- 
porous  wood,  traversed  by  delicate  medullary  rays.  In  Mexico 
Ionidium  polygalge  folium,  Ventenat,  s.  Solea  verticillata,  Spren- 
gel , is  employed. 

Ipecacuanha,  from  Asclepias  currasavica,  Linn6  (see  Ascle- 


Striated  Ipecac- 
uanha. 


5.  Bastard 
pi  as). 

6.  Indian  Ipecacuanha,  from  Tylophora  (Asclepias,  Linnt)  asthmatica, 

Wight  et  Arnott  (Nat.  Ord.  Asclepiadaceae),  (Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 177) 


Undulated  Ipecac- 
uanha. 


The  root- 


896 


IPECACUANHA . 


stock  is  short,  knotty,  emitting  a considerable  number  of  thin,  wiry,  brittle,  and  pale  yellowish- 
brown  rootlets.  The  outer  portion  of  the  bark  contains  large  parenchyma-cells,  filled  with 
starch  and  with  crystals  of  calcium  oxalate.  The  drug  has  little  odor ; its  taste  is  sweetish 
afterward  acrid.  It  is  free  from  tannin,  but  contains  an  alkaloid,  tylophorine,  isolated  by  D. 
Hooper  (1891)  which  yields  precipitates  with  the  usual  reagents. 

Batiator,  a Senegambian  root  from  an  undetermined  plant,  is  said  to  have  properties  similar 
to  those  of  ipecac.  It  consists  of  a knotty  and  hairy  root-stock  with  fascicles  of  thick  rootlets, 
which  are  somewhat  flexuose,  longitudinally  wrinkled,  more  or  less  transversely  fissured,  yellow- 
ish- or  grayish-brown,  breaking  with  a smooth  fracture,  inodorous,  slightly  acrid,  and  nauseous. 

Gardenia  campanulata,  Roxburgh  (Rubiacese).  The  shrub  is  indigenous  to  India.  The 
roundish-ovate,  slightly  five-furrowed  yellow  berries  are  said  to  be  cathartic  and  anthelmintic. 

Action  and  Uses. — In  man  the  effluvium  or  dust  of  ipecacuanha  is  apt  to  occasion 
coryza  and  congestion  of  the  larynx  and  bronchia,  causing  dyspnoea,  cough,  and  sometimes 
the  rejection  of  fibrinous  sputa.  Some  persons  have  a special  susceptibility  to  these 
effects.  In  exceptional  cases  the  conjunctival  inflammation  reaches  a high  grade  and  is 
accompanied  by  neuralgia  of  the  face  and  scalp.  These  anomalous  effects  have  been 
occasioned  by  soiling  the  hand  with  a drop  or  two  of  the  tincture  of  the  drug. 
Internally  and  in  small  and  repeated  doses  ipecacuanha  occasions  malaise,  depression, 
yawning,  salivation,  eructation,  and  nausea,  with  retching  or  vomiting.  Its  emetic  opera- 
tion is  not  protracted  and  distressing  like  that  of  tartar  emetic,  but  it  tends  to  relax  the 
bowels  if  they  were  previously  in  a normal  state,  and  to  augment  the  purgative  action 
of  cathartics. 

Like  many  other  medicines,  ipecacuanha  in  repeated  doses  sooner  or  later  brings  about 
toleration,  and  produces  very  different  effects  from  the  primary  emetic  phenomena.  But 
the  dose  of  ipecacuanha  is  not,  at  any  time,  a sure  criterion  of  the  effects  to  be  expected 
from  it.  Often  4 or  5 grains  of  it  will  vomit  as  much  as  12  grains.  While  grain  of 
emetine  given  to  an  adult  occasioned  vomiting,  in  another  case  12  grains  were  adminis- 
tered within  twenty-four  hours  without  exciting  either  vomiting  or  diarrhoea.  Allowance 
must  be  made  for  the  varying  degrees  of  activity  of  the  preparations  employed,  as  well 
as  for  the  state  of  the  patients  who  received  them. 

Although  experimental  investigations  indicate  very  little  if  any  action  of  ipecacuanha 
upon  the  lungs,  it  is  in  affections  of  these  organs  that  the  medicine  has  been  so  gener- 
ally employed  that  it  has  come  to  be  classed  among  expectorants.  The  conditions 
to  which  it  is  appropriate  are  dryness  of  the  respiratory  mucous  membrane  on  the 
one  hand,  and  excessive  secretion  and  obstruction  upon  the  other.  Its  mode  of  action 
in  the  two  cases  is  different.  In  the  former,  given  in  small  doses  and  in  the  first  stage  of 
ordinary  bronchitis , it  promotes  the  bronchial  and  laryngeal  secretions,  and  thereby  renders 
the  cough  less  painful  and  frequent  and  more  productive ; in  the  latter,  administered  in 
large  doses,  it  acts  as  an  emetic,  producing  an  expulsion  of  the  contents  of  the  air-tubes, 
while  it  renders  their  secretions  less  tenacious.  It  is  in  the  former  of  these  ways  that  it 
is  so  efficient  in  the  commencement  of  the  attacks  referred  to,  and  in  the  latter  when  the 
bronchia  become  filled  with  mucus,  serum,  or  fibrin,  as  in  whooping  cough,  suffocative 
catarrh , capillary  and  chronic  bronchitis , bronchorrhcea , etc.  In  addition,  perhaps,  to  these 
two  modes  of  action  a third  or  antispasmodic  action  may  be  recognized  in  its  cure  of 
spasmodic  croup  (spasmodic  laryngitis),  but  quite  as  probably  the  relaxation  of  spasm  it 
occasions  is  secondary  to  its  sedative,  and,  therefore,  so  far  as  the  local  disorder  is  con- 
cerned, its  depletory  action.  Like  other  nauseants,  it  has  been  found  efficient  in  expediting 
labor  by  relieving  rigidity  of  the  os  uteri.  A similar  operation,  no  doubt,  explains  the 
reputation  of  the  medicine  in  spasmodic  asthma.  In  membranous  croup  it  is  not  without 
utility  in  virtue  of  the  same  influences,  which,  however,  are  inadequate  to  the  occasion. 
It  is  far  more  efficient  in  the  several  diseases  mentioned  when  they  occur  in  children  than 
in  adults.  The  utility  of  ipecacuanha  in  jmeumonia,  which  has  been  affirmed,  is  probably 
limited  to  two  occasions — the  forming  or  congestive  stage  of  the  disease,  before  solidifi- 
cation has  taken  place,  and  the  declining  stage,  when  the  bronchia  are  apt  to  become 
obstructed  with  softened  exudation-matter  and  mucus.  In  both  conditions  the  emetic 
action  of  the  drug  is  appropriate — in  the  former  by  diminishing  the  quantity  of  blood  in 
the  lung  and  the  force  of  its  propulsion  by  the  heart,  and  in  the  latter  by  mechanically 
evacuating  the  obstructed  bronchia.  It  is  probable  that  the  utility  of  ipecacuanha  in 
haemoptysis , which  formerly  was  admitted  by  Stoll,  Trousseau,  and  others,  depends  upon 
this  mode  of  action.  It  is  true  that  some  reporters  have  not  found  it  useful  in  this 
haemorrhage  (Verardini,  Phila.  Med.  Times , xi.  430),  but  their  results  are  contradicted 
by  theory  as  well  as  experience — by  theory  based  on  experiment  as  above  described,  and 
by  the  clinical  results  of  using  large  doses  so  as  to  induce  speedy  toleration  ; e.  g.  90 


IPECACUANHA. 


897 


grains  infused  in  4 fluidounces  of  boiling  water  and  sweetened,  of  which  a tablespoonful 
may  be  given  every  hour  or  two  (Pecholier). 

The  utility  of  ipecacuanha  emetics  in  haemorrhage  from  the  stomach , uterus , etc.  has 
long  been  known.  In  the  seventeenth  century  Mangetus  imputed  to  this  drug  the  sub- 
sidence of  uterine  haemorrhage.  In  recent  times  Trousseau  stated  that  his  habit  was  to 
administer  it  to  all  lying-in  women  in  his  hospital  service,  and  he  cited  Baglivi  and 
others  to  illustrate  its  efficiency  in  haemorrhage,  especially  from  the  uterus,  and,  in 
particular,  after  confinement.  The  practice  has  been  followed  in  this  country  by  Carriger 
and  others,  who  also  noted  its  power,  mentioned  above,  of  relaxing  the  rigid  os  uteri  (New 
York  Med.  Jour.,  Nov.  1878  ; Med.  Record , xxi.  601).  It  it  is  probable  that  for  the  former 
purpose  small  and  repeated  doses,  Gm.  0.06-0.12  (gr.  j-ii),  are  appropriate,  and  for  the 
latter  nauseant  doses  of  Gm.  0.30-0.40  (gr.  v-vi).  In  haematemesis  a full  emetic  dose 
should  be  first  prescribed,  after  which  smaller  and  only  nauseating  doses  may  be  substi- 
tuted. According  to  the  modern  view  of  the  action  of  the  medicine,  it  may  be  supposed 
to  control  haemorrhage  by  contracting  the  capillaries,  but  the  earlier  explanation,  that 
the  heart  was  depressed  and  the  blood  no  longer  circulated  so  vigorously,  should  not  be 
lost  sight  of. 

Whether  by  direct  stimulation  or  by  indirectly  promoting  secretion,  there  is  no  doubt 
that  this  medicine  has  proved  advantageous  in  atonic  dyspepsia  ; that  is  to  say,  when 
digestion  is  laborious,  painful,  attended  with  flatulence,  depression  of  spirits,  cold  extrem- 
ities, etc.  The  dose  should  not  exceed  1 grain,  in  pilular  form,  and  may  be  taken  in  the 
morning  fasting  or  else  immediately  after  meals.  The  vomiting  in  pregnancy  has  some- 
times been  controlled  by  hourly  doses  of  a single  drop  of  wine  of  ipecacuanha.  We  have 
known  it  in  a single  day  to  arrest  this  symptom  after  it  had  continued  for  several  weeks. 
There  is  some  reason  to  believe,  apart  from  the  experiments  above  described,  that  ipecac- 
uanha increases  the  secretion  of  bile,  for  large  doses  of  it  (20  grains),  repeated  daily,  have 
relieved  cases  of  catarrhal  jaundice  that  had  resisted  other  remedies  (Cook,  Practitioner , 
xxv.  104). 

The  title,  Radix  antidysenterica , originally  applied  to  ipecacuanha,  denotes  the  esti- 
mate then  held  of  its  dominant  virtue.  It  was  first  used  in  Europe,  about  1686,  as  a 
secret  remedy  for  dysentery,  and  secured  for  its  propagator,  Helvetius,  celebrity  as  well 
as  pecuniary  rewards.  In  Brazil  it  was  the  specific  for  dysentery,  and  its  mode  of 
administration  was  such  as  to  produce  vomiting  first,  and  afterward  tolerance  of  the 
medicine.  The  efficiency  of  such  a method  is  intelligible  in  a country  where  dysentery 
is  apt  to  assume  a bilious  type,  and  an  analogy  with  it  is  found  in  a like  treatment  of 
the  acute  febrile  diseases  of  hot  climates  which  is  everywhere  adopted.  In  the  present 
instance  antibilious  and  antipyretic  virtues  are  united  in  the  same  remedy.  Other 
forms  of  acute  dysentery  than  the  bilious  are  not  always  as  advantageously  treated  by 
ipecacuanha,  and  where  in  such  forms  the  medicine  has  appeared  to  be  most  useful  it  has 
usually  been  combined  with  opium,  whose  share  in  the  cure  should  not  be  overlooked. 
Of  whatever  type  the  dysentery  may  be,  the  remedy  is  most  efficient  the  nearer  to  the 
commencement  of  the  attack  it  is  administered.  It  ought  to  be  given  on  an  empty  stom- 
ach, and  no  liquid  should  be  taken  for  an  hour  or  two  after  it  is  swallowed,  the  patient 
meanwhile  keeping  as  still  as  possible.  The  original  Brazilian  method  of  administration 
was  as  follows:  An  infusion  was  made  with  120  grains  of  the  bruised'  root  in  6 ounces  of 
boiling  water,  and  allowed  to  stand  for  12  hours  before  the  decanted  liquid  was  used.  A 
similar  quantity  of  fresh  water  was  then  added  to  the  dregs  for  the  second  day,  arid  the 
same  process  was  repeated  on  the  third  day.  Each  infusion  was  divided  into  two  or  more 
portions,  one  of  which  was  given  at  intervals  of  two  or  three  hours  if  the  attack  was 
mild,  but  the  whole  at  one  dose  if  the  attack  was  severe.  If  vomiting  occurred,  the 
medicine  was,  after  an  interval,  repeated.  There  can  be  no  doubt  that  when  it  operates 
favorably  the  stools  soon  lose  their  dysenteric  character  and  are  voided  without  pain.  In 
Peru  it  has  been  the  custom  to  administer  the  powdered  root  mixed  with  a little  syrup, 
and  at  the  same  time  enemas  made  with  an  infusion  of  the  root  with  the  addition  of  laud- 
anum. The  enema  has  been  found  by  many  practioners  in  Europe  and  elsewhere  to  be 
sufficient  by  itself  when  prepared  in  the  following  manner : “ Take  of  bruised  ipecacuanha 
150  grains,  and  boil  it  in  5 fluidounces  of  water  for  10  minutes;  strain  off  the  liquid,  and 
repeat  the  operation  with  a fresh  portion  of  water  a second  and  a third  time  ; mix  the 
three  portions  of  liquid  and  evaporate  them  in  a sand-bath  to  4 ounces ; divide  this  prod- 
uct into  two  equal  parts,  and  administer  one  night  and  morning  by  enema,  directing  them 
to  be  retained  as  long  as  possible  ” ( Polichronie ).  A simpler  and,  apparently,  as  efficient 
a formula  is  to  boil  60  grains  of  bruised  ipecacuanha  for  10  minutes  in  5 ounces  of  water; 


898 


IPECACUANHA. 


let  it  infuse  for  1 or  2 hours,  and  strain  off  the  decoction.  It  is  only  in  chronic  cases 
with  decided  ulceration  that  any  nausea  is  excited  by  these  enemas.  In  so  important  a 
matter  it  is  desirable  to  know  something  of  the  treatment  of  dysentery  by  ipecacuanha 
in  India,  where  the  disease  is  endemic  and  often  very  fatal.  No  higher  authority  on  the 
subject  could  be  cited  than  Surgeon-General  Fayrer.  His  directions,  somewhat  condensed, 
are  these : “ The  treatment  of  an  attack  of  ordinary  acute  dysentery  is  to  be  conducted 
on  the  following  plan  : The  patient  should  remain  in  a recumbent  posture.  A dose  of  20 
or  30  grains  of  ipecacuanha  powder  should  be  given  to  an  adult  at  once  in  water,  and 
the  patient  should  resist  vomiting  as  long  as  possible.  It  is  recommended  by  some  to 
give  a dose  of  15  or  20  drops  of  laudanum  before  the  ipecacuanha,  and  apply  a sinapism 
to  the  epigastrium.  He  must  abstain  from  all  fluids  except  occasional  mouthfuls  of  iced 
water  or  bits  of  ice.  My  own  plan  has  generally  been  to  repeat  the  dose  of  ipecacuanha 
in  4 or  6 hours  a second  or  third  time,  according  to  the  effects,  and  especially  if  the  first 
dose  has  been  rejected,  as  it  often  is.  I have  generally  found  that  if  this  treatment  be 
resorted  to  early  in  acute  dysentery  it  is  most  effective,  and  nothing  else  is  needed.  The 
pain  diminishes,  the  tormina  and  tenesmus  are  alleviated,  the  restlessness  is  abated,  the 
sense  of  fulness  and  desire  to  go  to  stool  passes  away,  the  skin  becomes  moist  and  the 
motions  feculent  and  assume  a peculiar  yellow  appearance.”  “ When  the  disease  has 
advanced  to  ulceration,  and  when  the  chronic  stage  has  been  fully  established,  the  ipecac- 
uanha is  no  longer  useful  ” ( Med . Times  and  Gaz .,  Feb.  1881,  p.  143).  The  advantages 
claimed  for  the  treatment  of  acute  dysentery  by  ipecacuanha  are — the  simplicity,  safety, 
and  promptness  of  its  operation,  its  efficiency  in  curing,  and  the  rapidity  of  the  cure. 
Even  in  chronic  dysentery  the  same  method  of  employing  it  has  been  very  successful, 
although  it  is  not  recommended  by  Fayrer. 

This  medicine  has  long  been  used  in  the  treatment  of  chronic  diarrhoea , either  alone  or 
associated  with  calomel  and  opium.  Of  late  it  has  been  administered  alone,  or  guarded 
with  opium  to  prevent  its  rejection,  in  infantile  diarrhoea , in  tuberculous  diarrhoea , and  in 
chronic  dyspeptic  diarrhoea.  Of  these  forms,  the  one  most  beneficially  influenced  by  the 
medicine  is  the  infantile.  If  the  patient  is  not  much  exhausted  the  medicine  may  be 
given  at  first  by  the  mouth,  otherwise  by  enema  and  in  the  form  of  infusion.  The  diar- 
rhoea of  consumption,  being  due  sometimes  to  intestinal  ulcers  and  sometimes  to  debility, 
as  well  as  in  both  cases  to  the  swallowing  of  sputa,  the  results  of  any  treatment  must 
vary  with  the  cause  of  the  symptom.  In  this  case  the  utility  of  the  medicine  is  least 
when  the  cause  is  most  permanent.  If  it  is  too  long  employed  it  may  create  an  irritation 
as  great  as  that  which  it  is  intended  to  relieve.  Whether  it  acts  by  substitution  or  astrin- 
gency,  or  as  a stimulant  of  the  vaso-motor  nerves,  it  very  certainly  diminishes  the  secre- 
tions of  the  affected  part,  and  apparently  does  so  during  its  elimination  after  absorption. 
The  same  mode  of  operation  is  probable  in  the  case  of  hectic  sweats , which  are  sometimes 
completely  suspended  by  enemas  of  ipecacuanha  infusion  when  other  remedies  have 
proved  ineffectual.  The  treatment  of  cholera  m,orbus  and  of  epidemic  cholera  by  this 
medicine  has  been  advocated  by  numerous  physicians,  who  presented  ingenious  reasons 
for  its  use,  but  neither  their  opinion  nor  their  practice  has  stood  the  test  of  experience. 

In  bilious  remittent  and  intermittent  fevers , when  gastro-hepatic  congestion  is  indicated 
by  the  muddy  eye  and  skin,  and  foul  tongue,  nausea,  bitter  taste,  distended  epigastrium 
and  hypochondria,  and  perhaps  bilious  vomiting  and  diarrhoea,  an  emetic  dose  of  ipecac- 
uanha promptly  palliates  these  symptoms  and  renders  the  action  of  quinine  more  imme- 
diate and  certain.  Ordinary  intermittent  fever  is  alleged  to  have  been  cured  by  doses 
of  1 or  2 grains  every  three  or  four  hours.  In  all  cases  of  indigestion  due  to  the  presence 
of  food  in  the  stomach,  of  urticaria  produced  by  the  same  cause,  and  of  poisoning  where 
it  is  desired  to  expel  the  offending  substance,  ipecacuanha  emetics  may  be  advantageously 
employed. 

As  a local  application  to  the  eye  in  purulent  ophthalmia  when  the  active  inflammatory 
symptoms  have  subsided,  but  chemosis  remains,  with  a red  and  flabby  state  of  the  con- 
junctiva and  cloudiness  of  the  cornea,  a decoction  of  ipecacuanha  has  been  found  effi- 
cient. It  may  be  made  by  boiling  Gm.  2 (gr.  xxx)  of  bruised  ipecacuanha  for  ten 
minutes  in  Gm  160  Q§v)  of  water.  When  cool  the  liquid  should  be  strained  off  and 
instilled  into  the  eye. 

As  an  emetic  the  dose  of  powdered  ipecacuanha  is  Gm.  1.30  (gr.  xx);  or  Gm.  0.30-0.60 
(gr.  v— x)  may  be  repeated  every  ten  minutes,  the  patient  drinking  freely  of  warm 
chamomile  tea,  or  simply  of  warm  water,  as  soon  as  the  first  signs  of  nausea  appear.  Or 
an  infusion , prepared  with  Gm.  8 (gr.  120)  of  the  bruised  root  in  Gm.  190  (6  fluid- 
ounces)  of  boiling  water,  may  be  given  in  doses  of  Gm.  32  (1  fluidounce)  at  intervals  of 


IRIS. 


899 


four  or  five  minutes.  A decoction  and  its  uses  have  been  already  described.  As  a 
nauseant  Gm.  0.06—0.12  (gr.  j — ij ) of  the  powder  may  be  repeated  at  short  intervals ; the 
same  dose,  at  longer  intervals,  may  be  used  as  a diaphoretic  and  expectorant.  For 
infants  the  syrup  is  preferable. 

Batiatior  is  used  in  its  native  country  for  the  same  purposes  as  ipecacuanha,  as  an 
emetic,  and  in  the  treatment  of  dysentery , as  ipecacuanha  is  employed  in  Brazil.  The 
negroes  are  said  to  regard  it  as  a sovereign  remedy  for  haemorrhoids.  Its  glucoside,  and 
ernonin,  is  said  to  be  a heart  poison. 

Ixora  (I.  bandhuca  and  1.  coccinea ),  an  East  Indian  plant,  is  said  to  be  very  efficacious 
in  dysentery , and  has  been  compared  with  ipecacuanha,  although  it  has  no  nauseating 
effect.  The  whole  of  the  fresh  root  is  used  to  prepare  a tincture  which  has  an  agreeable 
aromatic  taste  and  is  given  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.75  (10  drops)  three  or  four  times  a day 
(Bull,  de  Therap .,  xcvii.  45). 

Naregamia  alata,  the  Goanese  ipecacuanha,  is  almost  identical  in  its  action  and 
uses  with  the  officinal  ipecacuanha.  It  is  emetic,  expectorant,  and  antidysenteric  (Am. 
Jour.  Phar.,  lix.  575). 

Cocillana  bark,  as  tested  by  Dr.  Busby  (Therap.  Gaz .,  xii.  518),  appears  to  resemble 
ipecacuanha  in  its  action  upon  the  nasal  passages,  throat,  bronchia,  and  digestive  canal, 
and,  like  it,  has  been  used  in  various  forms  of  bronchitis  (Stewart,  Med.  Mews,  lv.  197 ; 
Wilcox,  Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  Jan.  1890,  p.  13  ; Rusby,  Mittler,  Therap  Gaz., 
xiv.  97,  333). 

Hedysarum  gangeticum,  about  1879,  acquired  some  reputation  in  the  treatment  of 
acute  dysentery.  The  powder  of  the  root  was  administered,  as  ipecacuanha  had  been 
previously,  but  it  occasioned  neither  nausea  nor  vomiting,  and  gradually  restored  the 
stools  to  a normal  condition  (Bull,  de  Therap.,  xcviii.  46). 


IRIS,  U.  S. — Iris. 


Blue  flag,  Water  flag , E. ; Rhizome  d’iris  varie,  Flarnbe  variee,  Gla'ieul  bleu , Fr. ; Ver- 
schiedenfarbige  Schwertlilie , Amerikanischer  Schwertel , G. ; Liria  americana , Sp. 

The  rhizome  of  Iris  versicolor,  Linne.  Meehan,  Native  Flowers,  i.  141. 

Nat.  Ord. — Iridaceae. 


Origin. — The  blue  flag  is  common  in  wet  and  swampy  meadows  from  Canada  south- 
ward to  Florida  and  westward  to  Minnesota  and  Arkansas,  and  flowers  in  the  latter  part 
of  spring.  The  sword-shaped  leaves  are  about  as  long  as  the  stout  stem,  which  bears  a 
few  showy  blue  flowers,  having  the  three  outer  lobes  of  the  corolla  with  a yellow  blue- 
veined  base,  and  the  inner  lobes  paler. 

Description. — The  rhizome  is  horizontal,  and  grows  in  annual  shoots  or  joints,  bear- 
ing a flowering  stem  at  their  end  and  producing  two,  or  often  four,  lateral  branches. 
The  joints  are  5-10  Cm.  (2 
to  4 inches)  long,  cylindrical 
at  the  base,  the  upper  portion 
vertically  flattened  and  18- 
25  Mm.  (|  to  1 inch)  broad ; 
they  have  an  annulated  ap- 
pearance from  the  projecting 
leaf-scars,  and  at  the  lower 
side  are  beset  with  simple 
rootlets,  10-15  Cm.  (4  to  6 
inches)  long,  and  crowded 
near  the  broader  end  of  the 
joint.  The  color  of  the  fresh 
rhizome  is  yellowish-brown,  Iris  versicolor*  Unn°  : j°int  of  rhizome  and  section  of  branches. 

when  dry  gray-brown,  and  internally  gray  or  brownish.  A distinct  nucleus-sheath  sepa- 
rates the  cortical  layer  from  the  central  portion,  in  which  nearly  all  the  scattered  wood- 
bundles  are  contained ; the  parenchyma  contains  mainly  starch  and  some  crystals.  The 
dry  rhizome  has  no  marked  odor ; its  taste  is  acrid  and  nauseous. 

Constituents. — The  rhizome  contains  starch,  gum,  tannin,  fat,  and  acrid  resinous 
matter;  the  latter  may  probably  represent  its  medicinal  virtues.  D.  W.  Cressler’s 
experiments  (1881)  render  it  probable  that  blue  flag  contains  a brownish  viscid  alkaloid 
which  is  soluble  in  amyl  alcohol  and  in  dilute  acetic  acid,  and  may  be  obtained  from  the 


900 


IRIS  FLORENTINA. 


alcoholic  extract  by  treatment  with  acetic  acid.  The  resin,  amounting  to  about  25  per 
cent.,  is  soluble  in  ether,  chloroform,  and  hot  alkalies,  and  from  the  latter  solution  repre- 
cipitated by  acids. 

Allied  Plants. — Iris  virginica,  Linne  (Meehan,  Native  Flowers , i.  189),  the  slender  blue  flag 
or  Boston  iris , and  Iris  verna,  Linn€,  the  divarf  iris , have  much  smaller  rhizomes  than  the  phar- 
macopoeial  species,  but  they  are  otherwise  of  the  same  appearance  and  possess  similar  properties. 
The  Boston  iris  grows  near  the  coast  southward  to  South  Carolina ; the  dwarf  iris  is  found  on 
hillsides  from  Virginia  and  Kentucky  southward. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  fresh  root  has  an  acrid  taste,  and  its  expressed  juice  is 
emetic  and  cathartic,  producing  great  prostration.  Diuretic  and  cholagogue  virtues  are 
also  ascribed  to  it.  It  was  a medicine  highly  esteemed  by  the  aborigines  of  this  country. 
Its  activity  appears  to  depend  upon  its  acrid  resin  (“  iridin  ”)  which  may  be  used  as  a 
purgative  in  the  dose  of  Grin.  0.05-0.10  (gr.  j-ij).  According  to  the  experiments  of 
Rutherford  and  Vignal,  5 grains  of  iridin,  when  mixed  with  a little  bile  and  water  and 
placed  in  the  duodenum  of  a dog,  very  powerfully  stimulated  the  liver.  It  is  also  a 
decided  stimulant  of  the  intestinal  glands.  It  appears  to  be  less  irritant  than  podophyl- 
lin  and  a less  active  cholagogue,  but  its  purgative  effects  are  greater  than  those  of 
euonymin.  It  may  be  used  as  a cathartic  in  constipation  associated  with  evidences  of 
imperfect  hepatic  action.  The  dose  of  the  dried  root  is  stated  to  be  Gm.  0.60-1.30  (gr. 
x-xx). 

IRIS  FLORENTINA. — Florentine  Orris. 

Rhizoma  iridis , P.  G. : Radix  iridis  Florentine,  Radix  ireos. — Orris-root , E.  ; Iris  de 
Florence , Fr.  Cod. ; Veilchenwurzel , G. ; Liria  de  Florencia , Sp. 

The  rhizome  of  Iris  germanica,  Linne , I.  pallida,  Lamarch , and  I.  florentina,  Linne. 
Stephenson  and  Church,  Med.  Bot.,  i.  t.  27 ; Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  273. 

Nat.  Ord. — Iridaceae. 

Origin. — Florentine  orris,  or  white  flag , is  found  in  dry  localities  from  the  southern 
shores  of  the  Black  Sea  westward  along  the  north  shore  of  the  Mediterranean  : though 
wild  near  Florence  and  Luca,  Hanbury  does  not  regard  it  as  indigenous  to  those  places. 
It  has  large  sweet-scented  white  flowers,  the  sepals  with  a yellow  beard  and  brownish 
veins.  It  is  cultivated  together  with  Iris  pallida,  which  is  likewise  indigenous  to  Southern 
and  South-eastern  Europe,  has  a rather  tall  stem,  and  pale-blue  or  purplish  flowers,  and 
with  Iris  germanica,  which  is  indigenous  to  Southern  Europe,  and  is  met  with  in  Northern 
Africa  and  Northern  India ; this  has  a lower  stem,  bears  deep-blue  or  purplish-blue 
flowers,  and  is  known  in  England  as  blue  flag,  in  France  as  flambe , and  in  Germany  as 
Blauer  Schwertel  or  Schwertlilie.  The  rhizomes  of  the  three  species  are  collected,  and, 
as  it  appears,  those  of  the  last  two  much  more  frequently  than  of  the  first.  They  resem- 
ble each  other  very  closely,  and,  though  the  branches  of  the  second  species  are  usually 
broad  and  stout,  there  are  no  permanent  characters  by  which  they  may  be  distinguished. 
The  rhizomes  are  collected  in  the  latter  part  of  summer,  peeled,  and  dried  in  the  sun. 

Description. — The  horizontal  rhizome  is  composed  of  joints,  which  are  5 to  10  or 
15  Cm.  (2  to  4 or  6 inches)  long,  the  broadest  part  near  the  apex,  about  25  to  40  Mm. 
(1  to  1J  inches)  wide,  tapering  below,  and  abruptly  narrowed  above  to  the  circular  stem- 
scar,  from  two  sides  of  which  similar  joints  are  produced.  The  rhizome  is  vertically 
compressed,  and  when  peeled  of  a white  or  whitish  color  externally  and  internally.  The 
leaf-scars  on  the  upper  side  are  indicated  by  transverse  lines  of  fibro-vascular  bundles, 
and  the  rootlets  on  the  lower  surface  by  circular  brownish  scars,  which  are  more  crowded 
near  the  upper  end.  The  texture  is  firm,  the  rhizome  breaks  irregularly,  and  shows  upon 
the  transverse  fracture,  near  the  surface  and  parallel  with  it,  a distinct  nucleus-sheath 
enclosing  a number  of  scattered  wood-bundles.  The  parenchyma-cells  enclose  mainly 
small  oblong  or  elliptic  starch-granules  and  few  crystals.  Orris-root  has  an  agreeable 
violet-like  odor,  which  is  slowly  developed  on  drying,  and  a mealy  afterward  bitterish  and 
somewhat  acrid  taste.  The  powder  has  a whitish  color. 

Constituents. — Orris-root  contains  a minute  quantity  of  volatile  oil,  which  is  solid, 
crystalline,  and  of  a pearly  lustre,  as  described  by  Dumas  (1835).  By  distillation  with 
steam  about  .8  per  cent,  of  a solid  crystallizable  substance  is  obtained,  which  Fliickiger 
found  to  consist  mainly  of  myristic  acid  impregnated  with  a little  volatile  oil;  this  acid, 
however,  does  not  pre-exist  in  the  rhizome.  This  constitutes  the  commercial  oil  of  orris- 
root,  but  a liquid  oil  of  orris  has  appeared  in  the  market,  which  is  said  to  be  made  by 
adding  oil  of  cedar-wood  to  the  crushed  rhizome  and  distilling  the  mixture  with  water. 


JA  CARA  NDA  .—JA  LA  PA . 


901 


Orris-root  contains  also  a large  quantity  of  starch,  some  soft  brownish  resin  of  an  acrid 
taste,  and  a little  tannin  which  colors  ferric  salts  green. 

Adulterations. — The  rhizomes  of  other  species  of  Iris  in  most  cases  resemble  the 
officinal  one  in  shape,  but  are  destitute  of  its  agreeable  odor ; those  of  Iris  pseudacorus, 
Linne , and  I.  fcetidissima,  Limit , which  are  indigenous  to  Europe,  have  a dark  color  and  a 
more  astringent  and  acrid  taste,  and  cannot  be  mistaken  for  Florentine  orris.  The  adul- 
teration of  powdered  orris  is  best  detected  by  the  microscope  from  the  different  shape  of 
the  starch-granules  contained  in  the  material  employed  for  the  purpose. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  fresh  root  is  said  to  possess  irritant  properties,  and,  taken 
internally,  to  cause  colic,  vomiting,  and  purging,  while  the  dry  root  acts  as  a moderate 
digestive  stimulant.  When  powdered  and  applied  to  the  nostrils  it  excites  sneezing  and 
increased  secretion,  and  in  the  mouth  a flow  of  saliva.  It  is  said  that  when  freely 
sprinkled  in  the  hair  it  has  caused  alarming  nervous  symptoms.  It  was  formerly  used 
along  with  more  active  medicines  in  the  treatment  of  chronic  diarrhoea  and  bronchitis , 
and  also  as  a diuretic  and  sternutatory.  A piece  of  the  root  was,  and  occasionally  is 
still,  employed  for  children  to  bite  upon  while  teething ; it  probably  excites  salivation 
and  mitigates  the  pain  of  dentition.  Iris  is  also  used  to  make  issue  “ peas,”  is  often 
added  to  dentifrices  on  account  of  its  aromatic  flavor  and  its  favorable  action  on  the 
gums,  and  is  an  ingredient  in  pastilles  used  for  the  same  purpose  or  to  conceal  fetor 
of  the  breath.  Its  liability  to  be  attacked  by  insects  renders  care  in  its  use  as  an  issue 
u pea”  desirable.  The  dose  of  the  powdered  rhizome  may  be  stated  at  Gm.  0.30—1  (gr. 
v-xv). 

JACARANDA. — Jacaranda. 

Jacaranda  procera,  Sprengel,  s.  Bignonia  Copaia,  Aublet , s.  B.  Caroba,  Velloso. 

Nat.  Ord. — Bignoniaceae. 

Description. — This  tree,  which  grows  to  the  height  of  about  12  M.  (40  feet),  is 
found  in  the  forests  of  Guiana  and  southward,  and  is  known  in  Brazil  as  caroba.  The 
root  is  of  a deep  red-brown  and  internally  yellowish  color ; the  bark  is  ash-gray  ; the 
leaves  are  bipinnate,  the  leaflets  nearly  sessile,  varying  in  length  between  about  0.9  and 
6 Cm.  (f  and  2 1 inches),  elliptic,  oblong  or  lance-oblong,  rather  obtuse,  or  more  fre- 
quently acute,  the  base  uneven  and  oblique,  the  margin  entire  or  occasionally  with  one 
or  two  irregular  teeth,  the  texture  rather  leathery,  the  lower  surface  somewhat  velvety 
near  the  veins,  both  sides  with  short  hairs  and  glands ; the  odor  is  slight  and  the  taste 
bitter  and  astringent. 

Constituents. — Hesse  (1880)  fouud  the  leaves  to  be  free  from  alkaloid  and  to  con- 
tain mainly  aromatic  resin,  which  Peckolt  (1881)  named  carobone ; it  exists  in  the  leaves 
to  the  extent  of  2.67  per  cent.,  is  greenish,  amorphous,  and  has  slight  acid  properties. 
Peckolt  found  also  1.44  caroba-balsam  of  a tonka-like  odor,  a bitter  principle,  tannin, 
crystallizable  inodorous  carobin , tasteless  resin,  and  several  acids.  The  bark  likewise  con- 
tains carobin,  bitter  principle,  tannin,  resin,  etc. 

Allied  Plants. — Several  plants  of  the  same  order  are  known  in  Brazil  as  caroba,  and  are  more 
or  less  employed  like  the  preceding — namely,  Jacaranda  subrhombea,  De  Cand. ; Jac.  oxyphylla, 
Chamisso ; Bignonia  nodosa,  Manso ; Cybistax  antisyphilitica,  Martins,  Caroba  de  flor  verde, 
Sp. ; and  Sparottosperma  lithontripticum,  Martius,  Jacaranda  branca,  Sp. 

Action  and  Uses. — Mennell  (Brit.  Med.  Jour.,  Feb.  14,  1885)  and  Wright  ( Lan- 
cet, Feb.  18,  1885)  employed  this  drug,  the  latter  in  gonorrhoea  alone,  and  the  former  also 
in  affections  of  the  bladder  with  purulent  urine.  In  its  native  country,  Colombia,  S.  A., 
it  is  said  to  be  used  in  venereal  diseases  without  causing  nausea  or  other  inconvenience. 
The  dose  of  the  fluid-extract  prepared  from  the  leaf  is  stated  at  20  or  30  minims  several 
times  a day.  Its  active  principle,  carobin,  resembles  sarsaparillin.  Peckoldt  prescribed  it 
in  Gm.  0.06  (one  grain)  doses  for  scrofula  and  syphilis. 

JALAP  A,  U.  S.,  Hr. — Jalap. 

Tuber  a jalap  se,  P.  G.  ; Radix  jalapse. — Jalap  tubireux,  J.  officinal,  Fr.  Cod.  ; Jalape, 
Jalapenlcnollen,  G. ; Jalapa,  Sp. 

The  tuberous  root  (tubercles)  of  Ipomoea  (Exogonium  Baillon ) Jalapa,  Nuttall , Ip. 
Purga,  llayne , Ip.  Schiedeana,  Zuccarini,  E.  Purga,  Bentham  (Bot.  Mag.,  vol.  lxxiii. 
plate  4280  ; Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  186),  Convolvulus  Purga,  Wenderoth,  C. 
Jalapa,  Schiede. 

Nat.  Ord. — Convolvulaceae,  Convolvuleae. 


902 


JALA  PA. 


Fig.  166. 


Fig.  165. 


Origin  and  Collection. — This  twining  herbaceous  perennial  is  indigenous  to  the 
damp  and  shady  woods  on  the  eastern  slope  of  the  Mexican  Andes,  at  an  altitude  of  from 
1520-2440  M.  (5000  to  8000  feet).  It  has  been  introduced  into  India,  and  flourishes 
well  in  the  Nilgherry  Mountains.  Its  cultivation  has  also  been  carried  on  to  some  extent 
in  Jamaica.  The  plant  has  alternate  cordate  leaves,  acute  at  the  apex  and  the  basal  lobes, 
and  axillary  cymes  of  three  to  five  dark  pink-colored  flowers,  with  a long  tube,  spreading 
border,  and  protruding  stamens.  The  tubers  (hypertrophied  roots,  Bentley)  are  collected 
during  the  whole  year,  but  principally  in  the  spring.  Owing  to  the  wet  climate,  the  drying 
cannot  be  effected  by  exposure  to  the  sun,  but  is  accomplished  by  suspending  the  tubers 
in  a net  over  a wood-fire  ; the  smaller  pieces  are  dried  entire,  the  larger  ones  are  incised 
to  facilitate  the  drying.  The  supply  of  jalap  is  very  variable. 

Description. — Jalap,  when  fully  developed,  is  napiform  or  depressed  globose  in 
shape,  above  marked  by  the  scar  of  the  overground  stem,  below  suddenly  contracted  into 
a thin  root.  The  tubers  are  often  pyriform,  ovate,  oblong,  or  nearly  cylindrical  in  shape, 
and  vary  in  size  from  that  of  a walnut  to  37-50  Mm.  (3  to  4 inches)  in  diameter.  They 
are  externally  of  a dark-brown  color,  and  usually  of  a smoky  appearance,  more  or  less 
longitudinally  wrinkled,  and  beset  with  brown,  broad,  corky  warts,  becoming  transversely 
confluent.  Jalap  is  hard  and  compact,  and  breaks  irregularly  ; the  transverse  fracture  is 
not  fibrous,  and  shows  a distinct  concentric  arrangement.  The  bark  is  quite  thin,  gray- 
brown,  with  a large  number  of  resin-cells  forming  a dense  zone  near  the  cambium-line. 
The  central  portion  of  jalap  has  the  resin-cells  arranged  in  concentric  circles,  which  vary 
in  width,  a zone  of  two  or  four  rows  of  resin-cells  usually 
alternating  with  one  of  a single  row.  The  parenchyma  con- 
sists of  smaller  cells  containing  sub- 
globular  starch-granules,  which,  par- 
ticularly in  the  outer  layers,  are  more 
or  less  transformed  into  a pasty  mass  ; 
crystals  of  calcium  oxalate  are  spar- 
ingly met  with.  The  vascular  tis- 
sue exists  in  small  circularly-arranged 
groups  of  spiral  vessels.  Jalap  has 
a very  faint  radiate  appearance,  the 
fibro-vascular  bundles  being  small  and 
„ . , T , not  very  numerous.  It  has  a slight 

Transverse  saaion  of  Jalap.  J ° 

smoky  and  sweetish  odor  and  a sweet- 
ish afterward  acrid  taste.  Good  jalap  should  not  be  deeply 
wrinkled  or  sticky  internally,  but  should  be  plump,  heavy, 
and  hard,  and  when  fractured  should  present  a resinous  appearance. 

Impurities  and  Substitutions. — Jalap  appears  to  be  sometimes  collected  in  an 
immature  state  or  at  an  improper  season  ; at  least  many  of  the  tubers  frequently  contain 
little  resin,  but  otherwise  present  all  the  characteristics  of  genuine  jalap.  Occasionally 
jalap  has  been  met  with  which  has  been  previously  deprived  of  the  resin,  and  is  then 
sticky  upon  the  surface  and  of  a dark  color  internally.  Hager  (1882)  states  that  good 
jalap  will  sink  in  a solution  of  sodium  chloride  of  spec.  grav.  1.140,  while  if  exhausted 
by  alcohol  it  will  float  in  this  liquid.  A mealy  jalap  has  been  observed  which  resembles 
true  jalap  externally,  but  has  few  scattered  resin-cells  and  a mealy  fracture. 

Valuation. — “ On  exhausting  100  parts  of  jalap  with  alcohol,  concentrating  the  tinc- 
ture to  40  parts,  and  pouring  it  into  water,  a precipitate  of  resin  should  be  obtained 
which,  when  washed  with  water  and  dried,  should  weigh  not  less  than  12  parts  (10  p.,  Br ., 
P.  G.),  and  of  which  not  over  10  per  cent,  should  be  soluble  in  ether. — U.  S. 

Constituents. — Jalap  contains  starch,  gum,  uncrystallizable  sugar,  and  extracts  e 

. . • . 1*  • 11  • I I * i 1 1 . , . . , h •»  rtll  C A I 0/1  m OP  PS 


vCV’ 


jfefl&'J  5*  il 

->y  ;jJ/,  wM 


Jalap:  transverse  section,  nat.  size. 


cent.  Ot  resin.  ivooui,  one-iwenui  or  one-tentn  ^occasionally  uue-cigimi;  - — 

ble  in  ether,  of  a brown  color,  acid  reaction,  and  acrid  taste;  it  is  soluble  in  alkalies,  and  re- 
precipitated from  these  by  acids.  It  is  contained  in  the  pharmacopoeial  resin  of  jalap,  the 
main  constituent  of  which  is  the  resin  insoluble  in  ether ; this,  investigated  by  Kayser 
(1844)?  Was  named  rhodeoretin , and  by  W.  Mayer  (1852)  convolvulin.  Pure  convolyulm 
\ colorless,  transparent  in  thin  layers,  inodorous,  and  tasteless,  but  in  alcoholic  solution  it 
as  an  acrid  taste.  It  is  insoluble,  or  nearly  so,  in  carbon  disulphide,  chloroform,  petroleum, 


is 

has 


benzin,  and  volatile  oils,  but  dissolves  in  acetic  and  cold  nitric  acid ; when  dry  it  melts  at 


JALAPA. 


903 


150°  C.  (302°  F.),  but  at  a much  lower  temperature  if  mixed  with  water.  It  consists 
of  C62H100O32,  dissolves  readily  in  caustic  alkalies,  and  is  not  repreciptated  by  acids,  but 
converted  into  coniolvulic  acid.  C62H106O35,  of  which  convolvulin  is  the  anhydride.  Both 
are  glucosides,  and  when  boiled  with  dilute  acids  yield  sugar  and  convolvulinol , C26H50O7, 
which  crystallizes  in  needles,  is  bitter  and  acrid,  and  when  treated  with  alkalies  loses 
water  and  is  converted  into  convolvulinolic  acid , C2BH480,;.  Convolvulin  and  its  derivatives, 
on  being  oxidized  with  nitric  acid,  are  finally  converted  into  oxalic  and  ipomic  acids , the 
tatter  being  C10H18O4.  and,  according  to  Neison  and  Bayne  (1874),  identical  with  selacic 
acid , one  of  the  products  of  the  destructive  distillation  of  olein. 

W.  Mayer  (1855)  has  very  improperly  given  the  name  of  jalapin  to  the  resin  obtained 
from  orizaba-root,  which,  with  all  its  derivatives,  is  homologous  to  the  preceding.  Jalapin , 
C6,HmO;{2,  closely  resembles  convolvulin,  but  is  soluble  in  ether  and  chloroform,  also  in 
acetone,  benzene,  and  phenol.  Dissolved  in  alkalies,  it  is  converted  into  jalapic  acid , 
C68H118035,  which  is  soluble  in  water ; when  treated  with  dilute  acids,  into  sugar  and 
jalapinol , C:i2II6207,  which  is  acrid ; and  with  alkalies  yields  jalapinolic  acid , C32H60O6. 
Nitric  acid  oxidizes  these  compounds  to  oxalic  and  sebacic  acids.  Spirgatis  (18(30)  con- 
siders jalapin  chemically  identical  with  scammonin. 

The  resin  of  tampico-root  is  likewise  homologous.  Spirgatis  (1870)  calls  it  tampicin , 
C68H10sO28,  which  yields  with  alkalies  tampicic  acid , CB8H120O34,  and  with  diluted  acids 
sugar  and  tampicolic  acid , C32H6406. 

Allied  Drugs. — The  so-called  jalap-stalks , male,  fusiform , or  woody  jalap,  consist  of  the 
tuberous  root  of  Ipomoea  orizabensis,  Ledanois  (Convolvulus,  Pelletan),  often  cut  into  transverse 
slices  50-75  Mm.  (2  to  3 inches)  broad,  light-brown,  compact,  often  horny,  distinctly  radiate  and 
more  fibrous  in  texture  ; it  is  spindle-shaped  60  Cm.  (2  feet)  long,  and  contains  resin  which  is 
entirely  soluble  in  ether.  Tampico  jalap,  from  Ipomoea  simulans,  Hanbury,  forms  globular  or 
elongated  tuberous  pieces  which  are  often  smaller,  but  occasionally  larger,  than  true  jalap,  deeply 
wrinkled,  destitute  of  transverse  scars,  and  of  a more  woody  fracture  ; the  resin  contained  in  it 
is  completely  soluble  in  ether. 

The  tuberous  root  of  Mirabilis  Jalapa,  Limit,  or  Four -o'1  clock,  resembles  jalap  somewhat  in 
shape,  but  is  darker  externally  and  contains  a large  number  of  acicular  crystals. 

Radix  mechoacannce , probably  obtained  from  a Convolvulacea,  is  found  always  in  sections,  of 
whitish  or  gray  color,  destitute  of  resinous  circles  ; it  cannot  be  mistaken  for  jalap. 

The  following  are  among  the  numerous  species  of  Ipomoea  which  have  been  used  like  jalap  : 

Ipoxkea  orizabensis,  Ledanois,  (Convolvulus,  Pelletan)  grows  near  Orizaba  and  in  Mechoacan. 

Ipomoea  pandurata,  Meyer,  (Convolvulus,  Linnt)  grows  on  sandy  banks  in  the  United  States, 
and  is  known  by  its  pointed,  heart-shaped  leaves,  which  are  sometimes  contracted  near  the 
middle  and  fiddle-shaped.  The  root  is  elongated,  cylindrical,  abruptly  contracted  above  to  the 
thickness  of  a finger.  It  is  pale-browrnish  externally,  grayish-white  internally,  and  emits  when 
wmunded  a resinous  milk-juice.  The  resin-cells  form  a dense  zone  in  the  inner  portion  of  the 
thin  bark,  and  are  irregularly  scattered  in  the  medullary  rays.  It  is  knowm  as  man-root,  man 
of  the  earth,  wild  jalap,  and  wild  potato,  and  is  feebly  cathartic.  Analyzed  by  C.  Manz  (1881), 
sugar,  gum,  starch,  a tannin-like  body,  and  1.5  per  cent,  of  resin  were  obtained.  The  latter  is 
purgative,  completely  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  chloroform,  and  potassa,  and  from  the  latter  solu- 
tion again  precipitated  by  acids ; it  consists  of  an  acid  resin  soluble  in  methyl  alcohol  and  pre- 
cipitated by  lead  salt,  and  of  a non-acid  resin,  which,  like  the  former,  is  a glucoside. 

Five  or  six  Brazilian  Convolvulaceae  have  tuberous  roots  containing  purgative  resins ; though 
employed  in  their  native  country  like  jalap,  they  are  not  articles  of  general  commerce.  They  are 
popularly  known  as  purga,  batata  purgante,  jalapinha,  jeticucii  and  emburerembo,  and  are 
obtained  from  plants  of  the  genera  Convolvulus,  Ipomoea  and  Piptostegia. 

Ipomoea  turpethum,  R.  Brown,  turpeth-root,  (Turbith  vtgttal,  Fr.  Cod.)  is  indigenous  to  India 
and  East  Indian  Islands.  The  root  is  met  with  in  commerce  in  pieces  of  various  length,  fre- 
quently with  pieces  of  the  woody  stem  attached,  reddish-brown  externally,  internally  grayish  or 
browmish.  The  bark  is  thick,  mealy,  and  contains  numerous  small  brown  resin-cells  in  concen- 
tric rows,  and  several,  or  in  older  roots  numerous,  w'oody  groups.  The  central  wood  is  pale- 
brown,  porous,  and  divided  by  narrow  medullary  rays  into  four  or  six  parts.  The  resin  amounts 
to  about  4 per  cent.,  a portion  of  which  is  soluble  in  ether;  the  insoluble  portion,  turpethin, 
^34^56^16^  resembles  jalap  resin  in  its  behavior  to  alkalies  and  dilute  acids. 

Ipomiea  Nil,  Roth,  s.  Convolvulus  (Pharbitis,  Choisy)  Nil,  Linnt  (Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med. 
Plants , 185),  is  indigenous  to  the  tropics,  and  grows  spontaneously  in  the  Southern  United 
States.  The  seeds  are  black,  somewhat  triangular,  rounded  on  the  back,  of  a rather  heavy  odor 
while  fresh,  and  of  a sweetish  afterwmrd  acrid  taste.  The  seeds  are  known  in  Indians  kaladana, 
and  roasted  or  in  powder  are  used  as  a purgative,  like,  but  somewrhat  weaker  than,  jalap  ; they 
contain  a fixed  oil  and  8 per  cent,  of  pharbitisin,  w'hich  appears  to  be  identical  writh  convolvulin 
(Pharmacographia).  In  Japan  the  seeds  of  Pharbitis  triloba,  knowrn  as  Kengashi , are  employed 
in  a similar  manner;  they  contain  convolvulin. 

Action,  and  Uses. — Jalap  and  its  resinous  principle,  convolvulin,  act  as  local 
irritants,  and  taken  into  the  stomach,  excite  irritation  of  that  organ,  with  nausea,  vomit- 


904 


JEFFERSONIA.— JUGLANS. 


ing,  colic,  and  mucous,  watery,  and  even  bloody  dejections,  according  to  the  dose.  The 
experiments  of  Rutherford  and  Vignal  led  them  to  conclude  that  jalap  is  an  hepatic  stim- 
ulant of  considerable  power,  rendering  the  bile  more  watery,  but  at  the  same  time  increas- 
ing the  secretion  of  biliary  matter.  Its  action  on  the  liver  is,  however,  far  less  apparent 
than  its  effects  on  the  intestinal  glands.  Its  medicinal  virtues  depend  upon  its  being  a 
hydragogue  cathartic  whose  operation  is  not  rendered  less  decided  by  a repetition  of  the 
medicine.  Hence  it  is  profitably  employed  for  the  removal  of  dropsical  effusions  from 
whatever  cause  they  arise,  the  duration  of  its  usefulness  depending  upon  the  nature 
of  the  cause  of  dropsy.  It  is  usually  associated  with  potassium  bitartrate  for  this 
purpose,  and  with  calomel  in  congested  states  of  the  liver  or  spleen.  It  is  to  be  com- 
mended in  constipation  attended  with  habitual  dryness  of  the  intestine,  when  it  should 
be  given  in  a dose  of  Gm.  0.10—0.20  (gr.  ij-iij)  in  the  morning,  fasting,  and  followed 
within  an  hour  by  a draught  of  cool  water.  A grain  or  two  of  aloes  given  the  night 
before  renders  its  operation  more  certain,  and  apparently  promotes  the  biliary  secretion. 
Jalap  is  not  an  anthelmintic,  but  a vermifuge , and  is  associated  habitually  with  proper 
anthelmintic  medicines. 

The  purgative  dose  of  jalap  is  Gm.  1—1.30  (gr.  xv-xx).  Its  powder  should  be 
thoroughly  triturated  with  sugar  and  flavored  with  an  aromatic  oil.  The  resin  is  esti- 
mated to  be  from  two  to  four  times  as  strong  as  jalap.  The  syrup  of  rhubarb  is  said  to 
completely  dissolve  it  and  to  increase  its  efficiency. 

JEFFERSONIA— Twinleaf. 

Jeffersonia  diphylla,  Barton. 

Nat.  Ord. — Berberidaceae. 

Origin. — The  twinleaf  is  an  herbaceous,  acaulescent  perennial  growing  in  woods  in 
the  Middle,  Southern,  and  Western  United  States.  The  leaves  are  on  long  petioles  com- 
posed of  two  obliquely  ovate  leaflets  ; the  scape  is  about  25  Cm.  (10  inches)  high  bearing  a 
white  flower  25  Mm.  (1  inch)  broad,  which  has  four  fugacious  sepals,  eight  spreading  petals, 
and  eight  stamens,  and  produces  an  obovate  capsule  with  many  seeds.  It  flowers  in  April 
and  May. 

Description. — The  rhizome  is  horizontal,  knotty,  beset  with  long,  fibrous,  and  matted 
roots  of  a yellowish  or  dark-brown  color,  somewhat  corrugated  and  transversely  fissured ; 
the  bark  is  brown,  of  a resinous  appearance,  and  has  a bitter  and  acrid  taste.  The  pale- 
yellowish  wood  is  destitute  of  taste. 

Constituents. — The  rhizome  was  analyzed  by  E.  S.  Wayne  (1855),  and  contains, 
besides  the  ordinary  vegetable  principles,  tannin,  precipitating  ferric  salts  dark-green,  a 
bitter  principle  and  an  acrid  acid  analogous  to  polygalic  acid.  F.  F.  Mayer  (1863)  states 
that  the  rhizome  contains  a small  quantity  of  berberine,  a larger  proportion  of  a white  alka- 
loid, and  a considerable  amount  of  saponin. 

Action  and  Uses. — No  recent  observations  seem  to  have  been  made  of  the  virtues 
of  this  plant,  which  is  said  to  be  diuretic,  tonic,  and  expectorant  in  •small,  and  emetic 
in  large,  doses.  It  has  been  compared  to  seneka. 

JUGLANS,  77.  S. — Butternut-Bark. 

Ecorce  de  noyer  gris,  Fr. ; Graue  Wallnussrinde , G. ; No  gal,  Sp. 

The  bark  of  the  root  of  Juglans  cinerea,  Linne  (J.  cathartica,  Michaux , J.  oblonga, 
Miller ) collected  in  autumn.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 247. 

Nat.  Ord. — Juglandaceae. 

Origin. — A handsome  tree,  9—12  M.  (30  to  40  feet)  high,  growing  in  forest  and  bot- 
tom-lands in  Canada  and  the  greater  portion  of  the  United  States  westward  to  Missouri 
and  Arkansas.  It  has  a brown,  soft,  but  durable  and  easily-worked  wood  ; the  leaves  are 
composed  of  about  fifteen  sessile,  oblong-lanceolate,  serrate,  and  underneath  pubescent 
leaflets;  the  staminate  flowers  are  in  aments  about  10  Cm.  (4  inches)  long;  the  pistillate 
flowers,  to  the  number  of  about  five,  form  a spike ; the  fruit  is  ovoid-oblong  and  viscid 
pubescent.  The  tree  flowers  in  April  and  May,  and  ripens  its  fruit  in  September  and 
October.  The  bark  is  collected  in  May  or  June,  or,  according  to  the  Pharmacopoeia,  in 
autumn,  and  is  deprived  of  its  corky  layer. 

Description. — The  liber,  of  which  the  medicinal  article  exclusively  consists,  is  white 
when  fresh,  but  rapidly  turns  yellow  and  deep-brown  on  drying.  It  is  met  with  in  com- 
merce in  flat  or  in  curved  pieces,  about  3 or  6 Mm.  (£  or  1 inch)  thick,  and  varying  in 


JUJUBA. 


905 


length,  both  ends  being  usually  cut  off  obliquely.  The  outer  surface  has  often  thin 
patches  of  cork  adhering ; the  inner  surface  is  smooth  and  striate.  The  tangential 
arrangement  of  the  brownish  bast-fibres,  alternating  with  white  parenchyma  and  crossed 
by  the  numerous  fine  white  medullary  rays,  gives  the  cross-section  a delicately  checkered 
appearance.  The  bark  breaks  readily  with  a short  fracture  both  transversely  and  longi- 
tudinally. It  has  a feeble  odor  and  a bitter  somewhat  acrid  taste.  If  collected  in  April 
it  has  a sweetish,  insipid  taste,  and  is  said  to  be  less  active. 

Constituents. — The  bark  has  been  examined  by  Thiebaud  (1872)  and  by  Dawson 
(1874).  The  latter  found  a little  tannin,  trace  of  volatile  oil,  a little  resin,  and  14  per 
cent,  of  fixed  oil ; also  a volatile  acid,  called  by  Thiebaud  juglandic  arid,  but  which  is 
doubtless  identical  with  the  nucin  of  Reischauer  and  Vogel  (1856),  discovered  by  them 
in  the  pericarp  and  leaves  of  Juglans  regia,  Linne.  Nucin,  or  juglone , which  seems  to 
have  the  composition  C36H12O10,  has  an  acrid  taste,  an  acid  reaction  to  test-paper,  and  is 
sparingly  soluble  in  water,  more  so  in  alcohol,  and  readily  so  in  ether,  chloroform,  and 
carbon  disulphide  ; it  crystallizes  as  orange-yellow  needles,  and  acquires,  with  alkalies 
and  with  the  alkali  borates  and  phosphates,  a handsome  purple  color.  If  the  properties 
of  the  bark  depend  wholly  or  in  part  on  this  principle,  it  is  easily  explained  why  continued 
boiling  should  render  it  less  efficacious.  Tanret  and  Villiers  (1877)  obtained  from  the 
leaves  of  the  European  walnut  a crystallizable  non-fermentable  sugar,  nucit,  C6H1206.2H20, 
and  Tanret  (1876)  reported  having  isolated  a crystallizable  alkaloid.  According  to  Ses- 
tini,  the  root  of  the  European  walnut  contains  glycyrrhizin. 

Allied  Plants. — -Juglans  regia,  Linne , English  walnut.  The  green  pericarp  (Cortex  fructus 
juglandis)  and  the  leaves  (Folia  juglandis,  P.  G .)  have  a peculiar  odor  and  a somewhat  astrin- 
gent and  bitter  taste.  The  young  fruit  of  both  species  is  used  for  pickles,  and  when  ripe  the 
kernels  yield  a bland  and  drying  fixed  oil  known  as  nut  oil;  it  is  greenish  or  pale-yellow,  con- 
geals like  lard  at  about  —18°  C.  (0°  F.),  and  acquires  a red  color  with  nitric  acid  and  a dark- 
brown  one  with  a mixture  of  nitric  and  sulphuric  acids.  Similar  oils  are  contained  in  the  but- 
ternut and  in  the  seeds  of  Juglans  nigra,  Linn6 , Carya  olivaeformis,  Nuttall  {pecan-nut),  and 
other  species  of  Carya,  the  various  hickory-nuts. 

Action  and  Uses. — Butternut  is  employed  medicinally  in  the  form  of  the  officinal 
extract  alone,  which,  according  to  Rutherford’s  experiments,  is  a “ moderately  powerful 
hepatic  and  a mild  intestinal  stimulant.” 

Juglans  regia,  or  English  walnut,  was  once  reputed  to  be  a remedy  for  scrofula , and  in 
France  about  1840  it  was  actively  advertised  for  this  purpose  by  Negrier  and  others,  but 
its  credit  was  not  sustained.  The  leaves  are  a popular  cure  for  leucorrhoca  when  used  in 
decoction  as  an  injection,  and  for  other  mucous  profluvia  internally.  An  extract  of  the 
leaves  has  been  claimed  by  Luton  to  be  curative  of  tubercular  meningitis  ( Etudes  de  thera- 
peutique,  1882)  ; and  his  reports  are  more  or  less  sustained  by  those  of  Tanret,  Meslier, 
and  Guenot  {Bull,  de  Therap.,  tom.  xc.  xci.),  but  they  have  not  been  confirmed  by  ulterior 
observation.  In  France  the  leaves,  the  rind  of  the  fruit,  and  the  inner  bark  of  J.  regia 
have  long  been  in  popular  and  medical  use  for  repressing  the  mammary  secretion,  for  curing 
ulcers  of  all  parts,  including  the  uterus,  for  treating  diarrhoea,  leucorrhoea,  ulcerated  sore 
mouth , affections  of  the  tonsils,  uterine  haemorrhage,  etc.  In  1853,  Pomeyrol  treated  with 
singular  success  carbuncle  and  malignant  pustule  by  the  simple  application  of  the  fresh 
leaves  of  black  walnut  frequently  renewed  (Cazin,  Plantes  medicinales,  p.  640).  Juglans 
nigra,  or  black  walnut,  says  Griffith,  has  a styptic  and  acrid  bark,  seldom  used  except  in 
dyeing.  The  rind  of  the  unripe  fruit  is  said  to  remove  ringworm  and  tetter , and  a decoc- 
tion of  it  has  been  given  as  a vermifuge.  A decoction  of  black  walnut  leaves  was  also 
advantageously  substituted  for  a complex  and  perturbative  treatment  of  diphtheria  by 
Dr.  Curtis  {Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  March,  1881,  p.  226). 

In  England  a preparation  known  as  “ spirit  of  walnut  ” is  made  by  distilling  alcohol 
from  fresh  walnuts,  and  is  stated  to  be  very  efficient  in  “ hysterical  vomiting,  the  vomiting 
of  pregnancy,  and  even  for  cerebral  vomiting”  (Mackey,  Practitioner,  xxi.  401). 

JU  JUBA . — J U JUBE  - BERRIES. 

Jujube , F.  Cod. ; Brustbeeren,  Judendornbeeren , G. ; Azufayfas , Sp. 

The  fruit  of  Zizyphus  vulgaris  and  Z.  Lotus,  Lamarck. 

Nat.  Ord. — Rhamnaceae. 

Origin. — The  jujube-shrubs  are  indigenous,  the  former  to  Asia  Minor  and  Syria,  the 
latter  to  Northern  Africa,  and  are  cultivated  in  Southern  Europe.  They  are  shrubby  or 
sometimes  tree-like,  and  have  alternate  ovate  and  serrate  three-nerved  leaves,  at  the  base 


906 


JUNIPERUS. 


with  two  prickly  afterward  spiny  stipules.  The  fruit  is  a two-celled  and  two-seeded,  or 
by  abortion  one-celled  and  one-seeded,  drupe. 

Description. — Jujubes  are  roundish  oblong  and  nearly  25  Mm.  (one  inch)  long,  but 
obtained  from  the  second  species  are  subglobular  and  about  15  Mm.  (4  inch)  long;  they 
are  bright-red,  or  after  drying  brownish-red,  wrinkled,  with  a thin  leathery  pericarp,  a 
soft  mucilaginous  and  sweet  sarcocarp,  and  an  ovate,  acute,  wrinkled,  and  usually  one- 
seeded  endocarp. 

The  fruits  of  Ziz.  Jujuba,  Lamarck , a slender  East  Indian  tree,  and  of  several  other 
species,  possess  similar  properties. 

Constituents. — Jujubes  contain  mucilage  and  sugar.  The  bark  contains  tannin. 
Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Massa  de  jujubis — Jujube  paste,  E.;  Pate  de  jujubes, 
Fr. — is  prepared  by  extracting  5 parts  of  jujubes  with  sufficient  water  to  obtain  35  parts 
of  infusion,  in  which  are  dissolved  gum-arabic  30  parts  and  sugar  20  parts  ; the  solution 
is  evaporated,  2 parts  of  orange-flower  water  added,  kept  slowly  boiling  for  12  hours,  and 
then  poured  into  moulds. — F.  Cod.  In  the  jujube  paste,  as  sold  in  the  United  States, 
the  jujubes  are  usually  omitted. 

Action  and  Uses. — In  the  native  countries  of  the  jujube  its  fruit  is  ranked  with 
figs  and  raisins  and  other  more  or  less  saccharine  and  acidulous  fruits  which  are  used  in 
tisanes  for  acute  irritations  of  the  throat  and  air-passages , as  in  this  country  we  employ 
the  syrup  and  jelly  of  currants,  blackberries,  etc. 


Fig.  167. 


JUNIPERUS.— Juniper. 

Fructus  juniperi , P.  G.  ; Baccse,  s.  Galhuli  juniperi. — Juniper-berries , E.  ; Genievre , 
Baie  ( Fruit ) de  genievre,  F.  Cod.  ; Wachholderbeeren , Kaddigbeeren , G. ; Enebro , Sp. 

The  fruit  of  Juniperus  communis,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 255. 

Nat.  Ord. — Coniferae,  Cupresseae. 

Origin. — Juniper  is  indigenous  to  the  northern  hemisphere,  and  is  found  in  North 
America  from  the  Southern  United  States  and  Canada  to  Greenland,  and  westward  to  the 
Pacific,  throughout  Asia  from  the  Himalayas  northward,  in 
Northern  Africa,  and  throughout  Europe.  It  is  commonly  a 
shrub,  sometimes  arborescent,  or  in  the  variety  alpiria  (Jun. 
nana,  Willdenow ),  prostrate  and  spreading,  the  latter  being 
met  with  in  Arctic  and  mountainous  localities.  The  numerous 
leaves  are  persistent,  spreading,  in  whorls  of  three,  linear  and 
sharp-pointed  ; the  staminate  flowers  are  arranged  in  short 
ovate  catkins;  the  pistillate  form  a short  cone  consisting  of 
about  five  imbricate  whorls,  each  of  three  scales.  Three  naked 
ovules  are  situated  at  the  base  of  the  upper  whorl,  and,  after 
fructification,  these  scales  enlarge,  coalesce,  become  fleshy,  and 
ultimately  enclose  the  seeds,  forming  the  official  berry-like 
galbulus,  which  ripens  during  the  second  year. 

Description. — Juniper-berries  are  nearly  globular,  about 
8 Mm.  (i  inch)  in  diameter,  dark-purplish,  and  covered  with,  a 
bluish-gray  bloom  ; the  short  stalk  at  the  base  contains  one  or 
two  whorls  of  the  small  scales,  and  the  apex  is  marked  by 
three  radiating  furrows,  which  are  surrounded  by  ridges  en- 
^ closing  a triangular  space.  The  three,  or  by  abortion  one  or 
sect i (Tiff ft? gaibuhis" a n d ' tr ans-  two,  bony  seeds  are  ovate  in  shape,  triangular  above,  have  six 
tS5MC£SSoi^!ffl^Lngi’  to  ten  large  oil-sacs  on  their  surface,  and  are  imbedded  in  a 
brownish  pulp  which  likewise  contains  oil-cells.  Juniper- 
berries  have  an  aromatic  somewhat  balsamic  odor  and  a sweet,  terebinthinate,  bitterish, 
and  slightly  acrid  taste. 

Constituents. — Juniper-berries  were  analyzed  by  Trommsdorff  (1822),  Nicolet 
(1831),  Steer  (1856).  and  Donath  (1873).  They  contain  from  ? to  21  per  cent,  of  vola- 
tile oil  (see  Oleum  Juniperi),  about  30  per  cent,  of  sugar,  resins  amounting  to  10  per 
cent.,  4 of  protein  compounds,  fat,  wax,  formic  and  acetic  acids,  malates,  and  juniperm, 
which  is  light-yellow,  slightly  soluble  in  water,  freely  so  in  alcohol  and  ether,  and  with  a 
golden-yellow  color  in  ammonia.  Bitthausen  (1877)  obtained  from  juniper-berries,  con- 
taining 10.77  per  cent,  of  water,  only  14.36  per  cent,  of  sugar,  3.77  of  ash,  and  31.60 
of  cellulose. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Infusum  juniperi. — Infusion  of  juniper-berries,  F.; 


Juniperus  communis,  Linne 
fertile  catkin  and  longitudinal 


KALMIA. 


907 


Tisane  de  genievre,  Fr.;  Wacliholderbeeren-Aufguss,  G. — Bruised  juniper-berries  a troy- 
ounce,  boiling-water  a pint;  macerate  for  an  bour  in  a covered  vessel,  and  strain. — U.  S. 
P.  1870. 

Species  diureticum. — Harntreibender  Thee,  G. — Lovage,  rest-harrow,  liquorice-root, 
cut,  of  each  1 part,  and  bruised  juniper-berries  1 part. — P.  G. 

Action  and  Uses. — Juniper  is  stimulant,  stomachic,  carminative,  diuretic,  and 
emmenagogue.  It  communicates  a special  odor  to  the  urine.  It  is  much  used  in  the 
treatment  of  dropsies,  and  especially  of  scarlatinous  and  other  forms  of  dropsy  due  to 
tubular  obstruction  of  the  kidneys.  (Juniperi  contus.,  Potassii  bitart,  aa  ^ss ; Aquae 
fervent.  Oj.  Make  an  infusion,  to  be  used  in  divided  doses  during  twenty  four  hours. 
Potassium  acetate  may  be  substituted  for  the  bitartrate  in  this  formula  but  in  half 
the  quantity.  The  diuretic  virtues  of  the  infusion  may  be  increased  by  the  addition  of 
parsley,  buchu,  horse-radish,  etc.)  In  chronic  catarrhal  affections  of  the  urinary  pas- 
sages juniper  is  useful,  and  also  when  sabulous  matter  is  habitually  voided.  The  inspis- 
sated juice  of  fresh  juniper  berries  diluted  with  water  and  sweetened  is  recommended  as 
an  agreeable  and  efficient  diuretic  for  children  (Goldschmid).  As  an  anodyne  for  painful 
swellings , and  generally  for  local  pains , bruised  juniper-berries  are  sometimes  used,  and 
fumigations  made  by  throwing  the  berries  upon  hot  coals  may  be  employed  to  relieve 
rheumatic  pains.  Haydon  states  that  the  Hudson’s  Bay  Indians  apply  the  bruised  inner 
bark  to  wounds  and  especially  to  foul  wounds  and  sores. 

KALMIA. — Mountain  Laurel. 

Calico-hush , Spoon-wood , E. ; Kalmie , Fr.,  G. 

The  leaves  of  Kalmia  latifolia,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Ericaceae,  Bhodoreae. 

Origin. — This  shrub  is  found  from  Canada  south  along  the  mountains  to  West 
Florida  and  Alabama,  and  is  usually  about  1.8  M.  (6  feet)  high,  but  sometimes  tree-like 
and  about  9 M.  (30  feet)  high.  The  wood  is  yellowish,  close-grained,  very  hard  and 
strong  ; the  elegant  but  inodorous  flowers  appear  in  May  and  June,  are  in  dense  race- 
mose corymbs,  and  have  a rose-red  or  whitish  subcampanulate  corolla,  which,  in  the  lower 
part,  is  furnished  with  ten  cavities  holding  the  ten  anthers  until  they  begin  to  shed  their 
pollen.  The  Indians  are  said  to  have  made  spoons  from  the  wood. 

Description. — The  leaves  are  alternate,  5-8  Cm.  (2  or  3 inches)  long,  petiolate, 
coriaceous,  oval-lanceolate,  or  elliptic,  entire,  acute  at  both  ends,  smooth  and  green  on  both 
sides.  They  are  without  odor  and  have  an  astringent  and  bitterish  taste. 

Constituents. — Charles  Bullock  (1848)  proved  the  leaves  to  contain  tannin,  a prin- 
ciple resembling  mannit,  an  acrid  principle,  resin,  gum,  and  other  common  constituents  of 
plants.  Kennedy  (1875)  isolated  a small  proportion  of  arhutin.  The  poisonous  principle 
is  andromedotoxin,  C3lH51O10  (Plugge,  1889),  which  is  prepared  by  precipitating  the  infu- 
sion with  normal  and  basic  lead  acetate,  treating  the  filtrate  with  hydrogen  sulphide,  con- 
centrating and  extracting  with  chloroform  ; it  is  soluble  in  400  parts  of  chloroform,  35  of 
water,  and  9 of  alcohol,  sparingly  soluble  in  ether,  and  by  mineral  acids  is  colored  red  ; 
evaporation  with  dilute  sulphuric  acid  causes  a rose-red  color;  reagents  for  alkaloids  do 
not  precipitate.  The  same  principle  has  been  shown  to  exist  in  a number  of  poisonous 
Ericaceae. 

Allied  Plants. — Kalmia  angustifolia,  Linne , known  as  sheep-laurel , sheep-poison , and  lamb- 
hill , has  petiolate  opposite  or  ternate  linear-elliptic  leaves,  2 to  5 Cm.  (1  or  2 inches)  long,  and  whitish 
or  brownish  beneath.  The  small  flowers  are  of  a crimson  color  (Meehan,  Nat.  Flowers  [2],  ii. 
181).  Lasche  (1889)  determined  the  presence  of  andromedotoxin. 

Kalmia  glauca,  Alton , Swamp-laurel , has  two-edged  branches,  pale  purple  flowers,  and  oppo- 
site subsessile  lanceolate  and  glaucous  leaves.  It  grows  westward  to  Colorado. 

Ledum  palustre,  Linne,  Marsh  tea , Marsh  cistus , Wild  rosemary , E.  ; L6don , Romarin 
sauvage,  Fr. ; Porsch,  Sumpfporst,  Wilder  Rosmarin , G. ; a shrub  growing  in  marshy  locations 
in  the  northern  sections  of  the  northern  hemisphere.  The  leaves  are  coriaceous,  25  Mm.  (1  inch) 
long,  linear,  obtuse,  revolute  on  the  margin,  dark-green,  and  smooth  above,  and  rusty  woolly 
beneath  ; odor,  peculiar  heavy  aromatic;  taste  bitter  aromatic,  somewhat  camphoraceous.  They 
contain  leditannic  acid , about  1 per  cent,  of  volatile  oil,  ledum  camphor , ericolin,  citric  acid,  resin, 
etc.  Andromedotoxin  is  absent  (Plugge,  1889). 

Ledum  latifolium,  Aiton,  known  as  Labrador  tea  and  James  tea , is  indigenous  to  North 
America  and  Minnesota  eastward.  The  leaves  resemble  the  preceding,  but  are  broader,  elliptic- 
oblong,  and  occasionally  slightly  heart-shaped  at  the  base.  West  of  the  Rocky  Mountains  it  is 
replaced  by  L.  glandulosa,  Nuttall. 


908  KALMIA. 

Rhododendron,  Rosebay,  Snow  rose,  E. ; Rosage , Fr. ; Alpenrose , Schneerose,  Gichtrose,  G. ; 
This  genus  contains  evergreen  shrubs  and  low  trees  inhabiting  mountainous  localities  of  the 
northern  hemisphere.  They  have  leathery,  entire,  somewhat  revolute  and  petiolate  leaves,  often 
crowded  near  the  end  of  the  branches,  and  showy  flowers  in  compact  terminal  clusters  or  cor- 
ymbs. The  leaves  of  the  following  species  have  been  used : 

Rhod.  chrysanthum,  LinnS,  indigenous  to  Siberia,  has  yellow  flowers.  The  leaves  are  pale 
rust-colored  beneath,  and  when  fresh  have  a slight  rhubarb-like  odor ; their  taste  is  astringent 
and  unpleasantly  bitter,  and  they  contain  a little  volatile  oil,  tannin,  and  andromedotoxin. 

Rhod.  maximum,  Linne , grows  in  North  America,  and  has  rose-colored  and  whitish  flowers.  Its 
leaves  are  about  18  Cm.  (7  inches)  long,  elliptic-oblong,  or  obovate-oblong,  acute,  smooth,  dark- 
green,  shining  paler  beneath.  Their  taste  is  astringent  and  somewhat  pungent.  G.  F.  Kuehnel 
(1885)  found  in  the  leaves  tannin,  arbutin,  ericolin,  ursone,  etc.  \ Plugge  (1889)  showed  the 
presence  of  andromedotoxin. 

Rhod.  ferrugineum,  Linne , a European  species,  has  purple  glandular-dotted  flowers,  and 
lance-oblong,  rust-colored,  and  beneath  scaly  leaves,  an  astringent  and  bitter  taste,  due  to  tannin 
and  ericolin. 

Andromeda  polifolia,  Linn£  (Ericaceae,  Andromedeae),  growing  in  marshes  of  the  northern 
hemisphere,  is  known  as  wild  rosemary.  The  leaves  are  about  25  Mm.  (1  inch)  long,  linear- 
lanceolate,  strongly  revolute  at  the  margin,  greenish-white  beneath,  not  aromatic,  of  a somewhat 
acrid  taste.  They  contain  andromedotoxin,  which  is  probably  also  present  in 

Andromeda  mariana,  Linn£,  or  stagger-bush  (Meehan,  Native  Flowers,  ii.  185),  reported  to  be 
poisonous  to  lambs  and  calves.  It  is  a shrub,  produces  clusters  of  white,  nodding,  ovate- 
cylindrical  flowers,  and  has  thickish  but  deciduous,  smooth,  oval  or  oblong,  entire  leaves,  about 
5 Cm.  (2  inches)  long.  It  grows  in  the  seaboard  States  from  New  England  to  Florida,  Tennessee 
and  Arkansas. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  leaves  and  berries  of  mountain-laurel  have  long  been 
known  to  be  poisonous,  but  their  action  has  chiefly  been  learned  through  the  effects  pro- 
duced in  man  by  eating  the  flesh  of  partridges  (Tetrao  umbellus)  that  have  fed  upon  the 
berries.  From  a number  of  cases  observed  or  collected  by  Dr.  Jacob  Bigelow  he  prepared 
(1857)  the  following  summary  of  the  symptoms  of  this  poisoning:  The  flesh  of  the  bird 
“ acts  as  a direct  sedative  poison,  impairing  the  functions  of  the  brain,  and,  in  connec- 
tion, those  of  the  digestive  and  circulatory  systems.  The  cerebral  symptoms,  in  a 
majority  of  the  cases,  have  been  vertigo,  loss  of  sight,  tinnitus  aurium,  and  in  bad  cases 
general  loss  of  the  power  of  sensation  and  voluntary  motion.  Respiration  has  been 
slow,  sometimes  to  a great  degree.  In  the  circulatory  system  there  has  been  syncope, 
feeble  and  sometimes  irregular  action  of  the  heart,  weak,  slow,  and  sometimes  imper- 
ceptible pulse,  cold  surface,  and  pale  or  livid  complexion.  In  the  digestive  system  there 
are  oppression,  nausea  with  a tendency  to  vomit,  and  in  many  cases  pain  in  the  abdomen, 
extending  through  to  the  back.  In  more  rare  cases  pain  has  been  felt  in  the  head  and 
limbs.  . . . The  poison  of  the  partridge  has  never,  to  my  knowledge,  proved  fatal.” 
The  medicinal  value  of  this  plant  is  almost  entirely  conjectural.  The  bruised  leaves, 
and  also  a decoction,  are  said  to  have  been  applied  to  certain  cutaneous  eruptions , and  it 
is  added  that  alarming  s}7mptoms  have  sometimes  resulted,  probably  because  the  skin 
was  not  whole.  It  might  be  profitable  to  test  their  efficacy  in  neuralgic  and  other  local 
pains  by  applying  them  in  the  same  manner. 

“ The  twigs  with  leaves  and  flowers  ” of  K.  angustifolia  “ are  used  in  bowel  com- 
plaints and  as  a tonic  ” by  the  Cree  Indians  of  Hudson’s  Bay  Territory  (Amer.  Jour. 
Phar.  lvi.  617). 

Ledum  has  been  ranked  with  acrid-narcotic  medicines,  and  is  stated,  in  large  doses,  to 
occasion  headache,  restlessness,  sleeplessness,  dyspnoea,  cough,  dilatation  of  the  pupils,  a 
sort  of  intoxication,  with  pain  in  the  limbs,  increased  secretion  of  the  urine,  saliva,  and 
especially  of  sweat,  with  itching  and  an  eruption  of  papules  or  pustules  on  the  skin.  It  is 
said  to  have  been  used  in  the  manufacture  of  beer  to  make  it  more  intoxicating.  It  was 
formerly  employed  in  diarrhoea,  dysentery,  whooping  cough,  croup,  gouty  and  rheumatic 
pains,  and  all  sorts  of  chronic  cutaneous  eruptions.  Its  use  for  such  purposes  is,  how- 
ever, obsolete.  Hilbert  extols  it  in  acute  and  chronic  bronchitis.  The  dose  is  stated  to 
be  Gm.  0.30-1  (gr.  v-xv).  An  infusion  may  be  prepared  with  from  5 to  10  parts  of  the 
leaves  in  from  100  to  200  parts  of  hot  water.  A strong  decoction  of  the  plant  is  used 
to  destroy  cutaneous  parasites  in  horses  and  neat  cattle  and  to  cleanse  bedsteads  of  vermin , 
and  the  leaves  and  twigs  of  the  fresh  plants  are  laid  among  woollen  clothing  to  protect  it 
against  moths. 

Ledum  latifolium  is  said  to  be  expectorant  and  tonic  and  to  allay  the  pain  of  insects’ 
stings. 

Andromeda  polifolium  was  formerly  used  as  a sedative. 

Rhododendron,  the  Siberian  or  snow  rose,  is  said  to  be  an  active  medicine.  It  is  re- 


KAMALA. 


909 


lated  that  a goat  after  eating  its  leaves  became  excited,  tottered  and  fell  upon  its  knees, 
and  did  not  recover  for  two  hours.  In  man  small  doses  appear  to  increase  the  secretions 
and  especially  to  act  as  a diaphoretic.  Larger  doses  render  the  mouth  and  throat  dry 
and  constringe  them,  promote  the  alvine  and  cutaneous  secretions,  and  excite  a sense  of 
formication  and  prickling  of  the  skin,  which  also  exhales  an  aromatic  smell.  In  still 
larger  doses  it  causes  giddiness,  confusion  of  the  senses  and  ideas,  dimness  of  vision, 
constriction  of  the  throat,  dyspnoea,  hebetude,  paralysis  of  sensibility  and  motility,  and 
even  convulsions.  Sometimes  it  acts  principally  as  an  evacuant  upon  the  stomach  and 
bowels,  and  in  other  cases  excites  profuse  diuresis  or  sweating,  itching  or  eruptions  of 
the  skin,  pain  and  twitching  of  the  limbs,  etc.  It  is  said  to  reduce  the  pulse  and  render 
it  intermittent. 

Rosebay  has  been  almost  exclusively  employed  in  the  treatment  of  rheumatism  and 
gout,  a hot  infusion  being  made  at  the  commencement  of  the  attack  when  acute  ; but  in 
the  chronic  forms  of  these  diseases  a moderate  but  steady  action  of  the  medicine  is  main- 
tained for  weeks,  and  even  months,  the  evidence  of  its  utility  being  furnished  by  painful 
sensations  in  the  affected  parts.  It  has  also  been  used  in  sciatica , in  chronic  diseases  of 
the  shin,  and  chronic  diarrhoea  and  dysentery.  It  is  given  in  powder  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.60 
(gr.  x)  several  times  a day,  or  in  a decoction  made  with  Gm.  8-16  in  Gm.  320  (^ij— iv 
in  fgx)  of  water. 


KAMALA,  U.  S.t  Br.,  JP.  G.— Kamala. 

Rottlera , U.  S.  1870;  Glandidse  rotilerse. — Kameela , Kamala , Fr.,  G. ; Sp. 

The  glands  and  hairs  obtained  from  the  capsules  of  Mallotus  (Echinus,  Baillon)  philip- 
pinensis,  Muller  Ary.,  s.  Croton  philippense,  Lamarck , s.  Rottlera  tinctoria,  Roxburgh. 
Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 236. 

Nat.  Ord. — Euphorbiaceae. 

Origin. — The  kamala  grows  wild  in  Australia,  Eastern  China,  India,  Southern  Arabia, 
and  Abyssinia,  and  in  most  of  the  islands  lying  between  these  countries  from  the  Philip- 
pines westward.  It  is  a large  shrub  or  small  tree,  with  petiolate,  ovate,  acute,  and  entire 
leaves,  and  produces  globular  tricoccous  three-seeded  capsules,  from  which  the  glands  are 
obtained  by  rubbing  and  sifting  in  baskets. 

Description. — Kamala  is  a fine  granular,  mobile  powder  of  a brick-red  or  brownish-red 
color,  somewhat  resinous  appearance,  inodorous,  and  nearly  tasteless.  It  is  with  difficulty 
mixed  with  water,  imparts  to  boiling  water  only  a yellow  tinge,  but  a deep-red  color  to  alka- 
line solutions,  alcohol,  ether,  chloroform,  and  benzene.  When  thrown  into  a flame  it  burns 
similar  to,  but  less  rapidly  than,  lycopodium,  and  when  heated  in  a crucible  it  leaves  a 
small  amount  of  ash,  which  weighs  from  pure  kamala  1.37  per  cent.  ( Pharmacographia ) 
Examined  under  the  microscope,  the  glands  are  seen  to  be  depressed-globular,  and  to  con- 
sist of  a thin  transparent  membrane  enclosing  a yellowish  mass  in  which  are  imbedded 
many  club-shaped  vesicles  radiating  from  a common  centre, 
and  containing  a red  substance  ; this  structure  becomes  more 
apparent  after  treating  the  glands  with  potassa  and  pressing 
them  between  glass.  The  glands  are  always  mixed  with 
colorless  stellately-arranged  simple  hairs,  but  fragments  of 
leaves  and  stems  should  not  be  present.  When  heated  in 
a crucible  to  redness,  kamala  should  leave  not  more  than  8 
per  cent.  (U.  S. ; 6 per  cent.  P.  G. ; at  most  10  per  cent. 

Br.)  of  ash,  having  a gray,  not  a red,  color. 

Constituents. — Pure  kamala  contains  only  between  .5 
and  3.5  per  cent,  of  moisture,  and  yields  to  ether,  alcohol, 
amyl  alcohol,  glacial  acetic  acid,  or  carbon  disulphide  about 
80  per  cent,  of  resin,  which  is  also  soluble  in  alkalies,  but  not  in  benzin,  and  whose  alco- 
holic solution  is  colored  dingy-green  by  ferric  chloride  (Fliickiger).  Leube  (1860)  ana- 
lyzed a sample  of  kamala  which  yielded  nearly  29  per  cent,  of  ash,  47.6  of  resin,  and  19.7 
of  other  soluble  matters,  consisting  of  citric,  oxalic,  and  tannic  acids,  gums,  etc.  Cold 
alcohol  dissolved  a resin,  Ci5H1804,  fusible  at  80°  C.  (176°  F.),  and  left  a more  sparingly 
soluble  resin,  C8H1205.  melting  at  191°  C.  (376°  F.).  Both  resins  are  brittle,  red-yellow, 
soluble  in  alkalies  with  a red  color,  not  altered  by  dilute  acids,  and  when  treated  with 
nitric  acid  yield  oxalic  acid.  Leube  could  not  obtain  Anderson’s  rottlerin , C22H20O6 
(1855),  which  crystallized  from  the  concentrated  ethereal  tincture  in  yellow  silky  needles. 
Groves  (1872)  ascertained  that  it  is  easily  modified  by  exposure  to  air,  and  is  consequently 


Fig.  168. 


Kamala,  magnified  190  diameters. 


910 


KAMALA. 


obtained  only  from  the  recent  drug.  Fliickiger  subsequently  observed  that  on  being 
fused  with  potassa  rottlerin  yields  paraoxybenzoic  acid.  Anderson’s  resinous  coloring 
matter  has  the  composition  C30H30Ov,  melts  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.),  is  easily  soluble  in  alco- 
hol and  ether,  and  yields  with  lead  acetate  an  orange-colored  precipitate.  By  treating 
kamala  with  boiling  alcohol,  and  cooling,  amorphous  floccules  of  the  composition  C20H34O4 
are  obtained,  which  are  sparingly  soluble  in  cold  alcohol  and  ether,  and  are  not  precipitated 
by  lead  or  silver  salts. 

A.  G.  and  W.  H.  Perkins  (1886)  by  extracting  with  carbon  disulphide  obtained  mal- 
lotoxin  Ci9H10O3  or  C18H1605,  which  crystallizes  in  flesh-colored  needles,  readily  soluble  in 
alkalies,  with  a yellowish-red  solution  from  which  it  is  precipitated  by  acids. 

Allied  Drugs. — Mesenna,  Mussena,  Bussena,  and  Bisinna  are  the  Abyssinian  names  for  the 
bark  of  Acacia  (Albizzia,  C our  don  ; Besenna,  Richard ) anthelmintica,  Baillon  (Nat.  Ord.  Legu- 
minosae,  Mimosese),  which  was  first  sent  to  Europe  in  1838.  It  comes  in  flat  or  bent  pieces  2 to 
5 Cm.  (1-2  inches)  wide,  and  5 Mm.  inch)  thick,  and  30  Cm.  (12  inches)  long,  gray  or  yellow- 
ish-brown, smooth  or  somewhat  fissured,  the  middle  bark  granular  yellowish  and  the  tough  bast 
pale  yellow : it  is  inodorous,  and  the  inner  layers  have  a nauseous  sweet,  bitterish,  and  persist- 
ently acrid  taste.  Thiel  (1862)  showed  the  presence  of  a saponin-like  amorphous  body,  Musenin , 
bitter,  saccharine,  and  coloring  principles,  and  about  5.5  per  cent,  of  ash.  The  infusion  is 
colored  yellow  by  ferric  chloride. 

Saoria,  from  Abyssinia,  is  the  fruit  of  Maesa  lanceolata,  Forskal,  s.  M.  pieta,  Hochstetter 
(Nat.  Ord.  Myrsineae).  It  is  drupaceous,  globular-ovate,  about  4 Mm.  (£  inch)  thick,  partly 
united  with  the  calyx,  brownish-green,  and  contains  a resinous  pulp  with  many  turbinate 
angular  seeds  attached  to  the  central  placenta ; the  taste  is  bitterish,  pungent,  and  acrid. 
Apoiger  (1857)  met  with  an  acrid  principle,  some  iron-greening  tannin,  volatile  oil,  fat,  pectin,  etc. 

Satze  or  Tatze,  the  fruit  of  Myrsine  africana,  Schimper , differs  from  the  preceding  in  being 
more  globular,  not  united  with  the  calyx,  of  a reddish-brown  color,  and  in  containing  only  one 
nearly  globular  seed,  which  is  grooved  at  the  base.  The  taste  of  the  fruit  is  more  disagreeable 
than  that  of  saoria. 

Embelia  Ribes,  Burmann,  Nat.  Ord.  Myrsineae,  grows  in  India.  The  dark-red  drupe  is  of 
the  size  of  black  pepper,  but  is  very  aromatic.  Warden  (1887,  1888)  isolated  from  it  embelic 
acid,  C9H1402,  which  crystallizes  in  brilliant  golden  spangles  and  is  insoluble  in  water  • its  alco- 
holic solution  combined  with  ammonia  turns  red,  and  on  spontaneous  evaporation  yields  the  salt 
crystalline  and  tasteless. 

Wars,  Warras,  or  Wurrus.  This  name,  which  is  the  Arabian  for  saffron,  has  occasionally 
been  given  to  kamala,  but  in  Eastern  Africa  is  given  to  a distinct  drug  of  unknown  origin,  but 
used  for  dyeing,  and  medicinally  like  kamala.  It  forms  a rather  coarse  powder  of  a deep-purple 
color  and  slight  odor,  becomes  black  at  the  temperature  of  a water-bath,  yields  from  6 to  12  per 
cent,  of  ash,  and  under  the  microscope  is  seen  to  consist  of  cylindrical  or  subconical  glands 
enclosing  oblong  vesicles  arranged  in  three  or  four  tiers ; the  glands  are  mixed  with  rather  long, 
simple  hairs. 

Action  and  Uses. — Kamala  has  long  been  employed  in  Hindostan  as  a remedy 
for  tsenia.  It  does  not  occasion  much  nausea,  colic,  or  purging.  British  soldiers  in 
India,  it  is  said,  often  apply  for  a dose  of  the  medicine,  “ after  which  they  invariably  part 
with  the  worm  in  the  course  of  a few  hours,  and  then  go  on  with  their  military  duty  as 
if  nothing  had  happened.”  In  general,  the  parasite  seems  to  have  been  discharged  dead. 
On  the  other  hand,  Berenger-Feraud  states  that  it  is  apt  to  occasion  nausea,  colic,  vertigo, 
and  headache,  and  that  it  does  not  cause  the  discharge  of  the  head  of  taeniae  (Bull,  de 
Therap.,  cxvi.  103).  The  medicine  appears  to  be  efficient  in  removing  lumbricoid  worms 
and  rectal  ascarides. 

The  dose  of  powdered  kamala  is  Gm.  4-8  fej-ij).  To  prevent  its  griping  hyoscyamus 
may  be  associated  with  it.  A saturated  tincture  has  been  found  efficient  in  doses  of 
from  Gm.  4-12  (fsj-iij),  diluted  with  cinnamon-water,  or  the  extract  produced  by  evap- 
orating the  tincture  may  be  employed.  The  dose  of  either  preparation  should  be 
repeated  several  times  at  intervals  of  about  three  hours. 

Musenna  is  used  by  the  Abyssinians  to  expel  taeniae.  They  take  Gm.  90-120 
(^iij-iv)  of  the  powdered  bark  made  into  an  electuary  with  honey,  after  fasting  for 
twenty-four  hours.  The  parasite  is  discharged,  neither  whole  nor  in  fragments,  but 
reduced  to  a sort  of  pulp.  The  medicine  thus  administered  is  apt  to  occasion  nausea, 
but  neither  colic  nor  diarrhoea,  and  its  use  is  followed  after  several  hours  by  a purgative, 
usually  of  castor  oil.  When  musenna  has  been  employed  in  Europe  it  generally  failed 
to  produce  the  results  as  a taenicide  which  are  attributed  to  it  in  its  native  country. 

Saoria  gives  a violet  tint  to  the  urine  and  occasions  slight  nausea  and  liquid  stools. 
According  to  some  authorities,  it  is  a more  certain  remedy  for  taenia  than  the  indigenous 
taenifuges  of  France,  but  others  regard  its  action  as  uncertain.  It  may  be  given  in 
powder,  mixed  with  porridge,  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  32-48  (^j-^iss). 


KINO. 


911 


Tatz£  has  a persistently  acrid  and  disagreeable  taste,  and  is  apt  to  produce  vomiting 
and  purging.  Dr.  Strohl  found  it  partially  successful  in  six  cases  of  taenia.  He  admin- 
istered from  Gm.  128-192  (4  to  6 drachms)  of  the  powder  in  a liquid  vehicle. 

Embelia  Ribes.  The  berries  of  this  plant  are  stated  to  be  efficacious  against  tape- 
worm. Gm.  8-12  (^ij-iij),  powdered,  are  given  with  milk  before  breakfast,  and  followed 
some  hours  later  by  a dose  of  castor  oil  or  other  purgative  ( Amer . Jour,  of  Phar.,  lx. 
340). 

KINO,  U.  S.,  Br—  Kino. 

Gummi  (s.  Resina ) Kino. — Kino  de  Unde , Fr.  Cod. ; Kino , G.  ; Goma  quino , Sp. 

The  inspissated  juice  of  Pterocarpus  Marsupium,  Roxburgh.  Bentley  and  Trimen, 
Med.  Plants , 81. 

Nut.  Ord. — Leguminosae,  Papilionaceae. 

Origin. — The  kino  tree,  called  buja  in  Bengal,  is  18-24  M.  (60  to  80  feet)  high,  has 
numerous  spreading  branches,  a red  inner  bark,  unequally  pinnate  deciduous  leaves,  yel- 
lowish flowers  in  loose  racemes,  and  nearly  orbicular  and  winged  pods,  which  contain  a 
single  kidney -shaped  seed.  It  is  indigenous  to  India  and  Ceylon,  and  on  incisions  being 
made  through  the  bark  yields  a red  juice,  which  is  dried  by  exposure  to  the  air  and  sun. 
Pter.  indicus,  Willdenow , a native  of  Southern  India  and  of  the  Philippine  Islands,  yields 
kino  of  a fetid  odor. 

Description. — East  India  or  Malabar  kino  is  met  within  small,  angular,  dark  brown- 
ish-red, glistening,  and  brittle  pieces,  which  in  thin  layers  are  transparent  and  of  a ruby- 
red  color,  and  tinge  the  saliva  deep-red;  it  softens  between  the  teeth,  is  inodorous,  and 
has  a very  astringent  and  sweetish  taste.  It  is  partly  soluble  in  cold  water,  leaving  a 
flocculent  residue,  and  is  entirely  soluble  in  alcohol  and  nearly  insoluble  in  ether.  The 
solutions  have  an  acid  reaction  ; the  aqueous  solution  is  precipitated  green-black  by  ferric 
salts,  gray-purplish  by  lead  acetate,  light-brown  by  tartar  emetic,  and  reddish  by  mercuric 
chloride.  The  solution  in  diluted  alcohol  is  apt  to  gelatinize. 

Constituents. — By  treating  kino  with  ether  Eissfeldt  (1854)  obtained  a minute 
quantity  of  pyrocatechin  which  Kremel  (1883)  could  not  obtain.  The  products  of  the 
dry  distillation  of  kino  contain  a larger  quantity  of  the  same  substance,  which  may  be 
obtained  pure  by  subliming  in  a benzoic  acid  apparatus.  Kino  contains  no  catechuic  acid , 
but  its  tannin,  kino-tannic  acid , seems  to  be  chemically  related  to  catechu  tannin,  since  it 
yields  similar  decomposition-products ; but  it  has  not  yet  been  obtained  in  a pure  condi- 
tion, being  accompanied  by  red  coloring  matter,  and,  according  to  Hennig  (1853),  by  a 
pectin  compound  from  which  it  cannot  easily  be  freed.  The  aqueous  solution  of  the  acid 
gives  with  pure  ferrous  salts  when  carefully  neutralized  a violet  color,  and  with  ferric 
salts  a blackish-green  one.  Mineral  acids  and  many  metallic  salts  produce  precipitates ; 
hot  nitric  acid  converts  it  into  oxalic  acid.  In  solution  it  is  darkened  by  alkalies,  and 
when  treated  with  potassa  it  is  decomposed  into  protocatechuic  acid  and  phloroglucin.  On 
exposure  to  air  the  aqueous  solution  yields  a red  precipitate,  slowly  at  the  ordinary,  more 
rapidly  at  the  boiling,  temperature ; this  is  kino-red , an  amorphous,  tasteless  mass,  the 
alcoholic  solution  of  which  has  a slight  acid  reaction.  Kino-red,  C28H2.2On,  is  also  pro- 
duced by  heating  kinoin  to  130°  C.  (266°  F.).  This  compound  was  obtained  by  Etti 
(1879)  by  boiling  kino  with  diluted  hydrochloric  acid  and  agitating  the  clear  liquid  with 
ether;  it  forms  white  crystals,  the  solution  of  which  in  water  becomes  red  with  ferric 
chloride.  The  compound  which  yields  pyrocatechin  and  gallic  acid  was  obtained  by 
Fliickiger  from  Australian,  but  not  from  Malabar,  kino.  Kino  yields  about  1.3  per  cent, 
of  ash. 

Other  Varieties  of  Kino. — African  or  Gambia  Kino  exudes  naturally  from  Pter.  erinaceus, 
Poiret , of  Western  Africa,  and  agrees  with  the  Bengal  kino  in  behavior;  it  is  not  an  article  of 
commerce. 

Australian  or  Botany  Bay  Kino  is  usually  referred  to  Eucalyptus  resinifera,  Smith  (Myrta- 
ceae),  but  F.  von  Mueller  sent  exudations  from  sixteen  different  species  to  Wiesner  (1871),  who 
found  the  products  of  E.  rostrata.  Schlechtendal , E.  corymbosa,  Smith , E.  piperita,  Smith , and 
of  some  others,  to  agree  well  with  Malabar  kino,  while  the  exudation  of  E.  resinifera,  E.  gigantea, 
Hooker,  and  others  contains  much  gum,  which  is  colored  red  by  a kino-like  substance.  A kino- 
like substance  is  occasionally  obtained  from  E.  globulus,  Labillardiere. 

Bengal  or  Palas  Kino,  Butea  gum,  from  Butea  frondosa,  Roxburgh  (Leguminosae),  is  in  dark 
ruby-colored  tears  and  fragments,  of  which  only  about  one-half  or  less  is  soluble  in  hot  alcohol, 
the  remainder  being  mucilaginous  matter.  According  to  Eissfeldt,  it  does  not  contain  pyrocate- 
chin, but  yields  this  compound  on  dry  distillation.  When  incinerated,  Butea  gum  leaves  about 
1.8  per  cent,  of  ash. 


912 


KRAMERIA. 


Jamaica,  West  Indian,  or  Caracas  Kino,  from  Coccoloba  uvifera,  Linn£,  or  seaside  grape 
(Polygonacese),  is  obtained  by  boiling  the  wood  and  bark  and  evaporating  the  decoction.  It 
resembles  Malabar  kino  in  appearance,  but  is  of  a brown  tint,  less  glossy,  and  has  a bitterish 
rather  than  a sweetish  taste ; it  is  soluble  in  both  alcohol  and  water  to  the  extent  of  about  90  or 
93  per  cent.  The  tannin  of  this  kino  seems  to  be  closely  related  to,  if  not  identical  with,  that 
of  the  officinal  article.  The  plant  named  is  a large  tree  of  the  West  Indies  and  Southern  Florida, 
and  has  a heavy,  hard,  and  durable  violet-brown  wood.  Whether  the  wood  of  Coccoloba  flori- 
dana,  Meissner  (C.  parvifolia,  Nuttall ),  or  pigeon  plum,  of  Southern  Florida,  may  yield  kino  has 
not  been  ascertained. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  medicine  is  more  lenitive  than  other  astringents,  in  con- 
sequence, probably,  of  the  pectin  it  contains.  Its  modified  astringency  renders  it  in 
some  degree  a local  tonic.  It  is  chiefly  used  in  the  treatment  of  diarrhoea  and  of  that 
form  of  gastric  disorder  known  as  pyrosis.  In  the  former  it  may  be  profitably  employed 
when  pure  astringents  would  be  too  irritating,  and  is  generally  associated  with  opium,  as 
it  also  should  be  in  the  treatment  of  water-brash.  It  has  sometimes  been  given  with 
apparent  advantage  to  check  sweating  in  phthisis,  urination  in  diabetes , and  bleeding  in 
menorrhagia.  Its  solution  may  be  used  as  an  injection  in  diarrhoea,  dysentery,  and 
leucorrhoea , as  a dressing  for  flabby  ulcers , and  as  a gargle  in  ulcerated  sore  throat.  In 
powder  it  has  been  employed  as  a haemostatic.  But  as  a local  application  it  is  inferior  to 
other  astringents,  and  especially  to  tannin. 

Kino  may  be  prescribed  in  powder  in  the  dose  of  from  Gm.  0.60-1.30  (gr.  x-xx).  An 
infusion  may  be  made  with  Gm.  8 (3H)  of  kino  in  Gm.  250  (f^viij)  of  boiling  water. 
When  cool  it  should  be  strained  and  given  in  doses  of  1 or  2 tablespoonfuls.  Owing  to 
the  tendency  of  its  gummy  matter  to  coagulate,  it  is  less  eligible  than  catechu  as  an 
ingredient  of  chalk  mixture. 

KRAMERIA,  U.  S. — Rhatany. 

Krameriae  radix,  Br. ; Radix  ratanhiae,  P.  G. ; Radix  ratanhae. — Rhatany-root,  E. ; 
Ratanhia,  Fr. ; Ratanhawurzel,  G. ; Ratania,  Crameria,  Sp. 

The  root  of  Krameria  triandra,  Ruiz  et  Pavon  ( Flor . Peruv. ; Bentley  and  Trimen, 
Med.  Plants , 30,  31),  and  of  Krameria  Ixina,  IAnne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Polygalaceae,  Kramerieae. 

Origin. — Tile  ratanhia  is  a low  shrub  with  spreading  branches,  a native  of  Bolivia 
and  Peru,  and  grows  in  sandy  localities  in  the  mountains  at  an  altitude  of  900-2440  M. 
(3000  to  8000  feet)  ; it  has  a striking  appearance  from  the  sessile  leaves,  which  are 
densely  covered  with  silvery  hairs,  and  from  the  flowers,  which  have  four  scarlet  sepals 
arranged  in  the  form  of  a cross  and  four  small  dissimilar  red  petals.  The  root  is  chiefly 
exported  from  Payta.  and  is.  therefore  distinguished  in  commerce  as  Payta  or  Peruvian 
rhatany. 

The  species  Kr.  Ixina,  as  recognized  by  most  botanists,  extends  from  North-eastern 
Brazil  northward  to  Mexico,  Venezuela,  and  the  West  Indian  islands,  and  exists  in 
several  well-marked  varieties  ; it  has  longer  petiolate  leaves  and  loose  terminal  racemes 
of  red  flowers  with  five  dissimilar  petals.  The  root  is  exported  from  the  Columbian  ports 
of  Sabanilla,  Cartagena,  and  Santa  Marta,  and  is  known  in  commerce  as  Savanilla  or  New 
Granada  rhatany. 

Description. — Payta  rhatany-root  has  several  knotty  heads,  and  consists  of  a 
woody  main  root,  which  is  25-38  Mm.  (1  or  1£  inches)  thick  and  from  5-10  Cm.  (2  to 

4 inches)  long,  wrhen  it  divides  into  several  spreading  and  bent 
branches,  25—45  Cm.  (10  to  18  inches)  long  and  varying  in 
thickness  from  3—12  Mm.  (£  to  i inch).  The  latter  constitute 
what  is  sometimes  called  long  rhatany , while  the  less  desirable 
heads  and  main  root  are  called  short  or  stumpy  rhatany.  The 
bark  is  smooth,  or  in  the  older  roots  scaly ; of  a peculiar  rust- 
brown  or  blackish-brown  color ; from  2-3  Mm.  (Jy  to  i inch) 
thick  ; somewhat  resinous  in  the  outer,  and  rather  fibrous  and 
brownish-red  in  the  inner  layer.  The  wood  is  from  six  to  ten 
times  thicker  than  the  bark,  of  a pale-brownish  or  reddish  color,  and  is  radially  striate  by 
numerous  fine  medullary  rays,  very  tough,  and  nearly  tasteless.  The  bark,  like  the  wood, 
is  inodorous,  but  has  a strongly  astringent  taste,  which  accounts  for  the  superiority  of 
the  long  root.  The  tincture  made  with  alcohol  gives  with  an  alcoholic  solution  of  lead 
acetate,  a brownish-red  precipitate  and  a brown-red  filtrate  (Fliickiger). 

Savanilla  rhatany-root  resembles  the  Peruvian  rhatany,  but  is  always  less  knotty 


Fig.  169. 

a b 


Rhatany -Root:  a,  Payta  root; 
b,  Savanilla  root. 


KRAMERTA. 


913 


and  more  slender ; its  bark  has  a distinct  purplish  hue,  is  smooth  or  longitudinally  some- 
what wrinkled,  occasionally  deep-fissured,  and  3-4  Mm.  (£  to  4 inch)  thick;  the  wood  is 
only  three  or  four  times  thicker  than  the  bark,  the  tannin  of  which  appears  to  differ  some- 
what from  that  of  the  first  variety.  The  alcoholic  tincture  yields  with  alcoholic  solution 
of  lead  acetate  a purplish-gray  precipitate  and  a colorless  filtrate.  Both  roots  tinge  the 
saliva  brown-red  ; the  coloring  matter  is  contained  in  the  bark-parenchyma,  in  which  also 
small  subglobular  starch-granules  are  found ; the  small  bundles  of  bast-fibres  are  radially 
arranged,  and  accompanied  by  cells  with  fine  crystals  of  calcium  oxalate. 

Payta  rhatany  alone  is  recognized  by  the  German  Pharmacopoeia,  while  those  of  the 
United  States,  Great  Britain,  and  France  admit  also  the  Savanilla  variety. 

Constituents. — The  most  important  constituent  is  ratanliia-tannic  acid , of  which 
Wittstein  (1854)  obtained  nearly  18  per  cent,  from  the  bark  of  Payta  rhatany  in  the  form 
of  a red  amorphous  powder.  It  is  precipitated  dark-green  by  ferric  salts  and  flesh-colored 
by  gelatin,  but  not  precipitated  by  tartar  emetic ; on  dry  distillation  pyrocatechin  distils 
over.  Grabowski  (1867)  observed  that  by  fusion  with  potassa  the  tannin  is  decomposed 
into  protocatechnic  acid  and  phloroglucin , and  that  the  ratanhia-red  of  Wittstein,  which  is 
obtained  by  boiling  with  dilute  sulphuric  acid,  has  the  same  composition,  C26H22Ou,  as  the 
similar  product  obtained  by  Bochleder  (1866)  from  the  tannin  of  the  horse-chestnut,  and 
by  Rembold  (1868)  from  that  of  tormentil.  The  tannins  obtained  from  the  three  plants 
appear  to  have  the  composition  C26H24On.  The  other  constituents  of  rhatany-root  are 
wax,  gum,  and  uncrystallizable  sugar. 

Savanilla  rhatany  contains  essentially  the  same  constituents.  Wittstein  obtained  from 
the  bark  of  Payta  rhatany,  by  means  of  ether,  17.8  per  cent.,  and  subsequently,  by  alco- 
hol, 17  per  cent.,  of  extract,  while  Savanilla  rhatany  yielded  respectively  3.2  and  34  per 
cent.  The  ethereal  extracts  contained  the  tannin  described  above,  but  the  tannins  of  the 
alcoholic  extracts  appeared  to  differ  in  several  reactions. 

From  an  extract  of  rhatany  formerly  exported  from  South  America,  Wittstein  isolated 
a crystalline  body  which  he  regarded  as  identical  with  tyrosin , but  which  Stadeler  and 
Huge  (1862)  found  to  be  C10H13NO3 ; they  named  it  ratanhin.  Gintl  (1869)  proved  it  to 
be  identical  with  the  angeline  of  Peckolt,  obtained  from  the  resina  d’angelim  pedra,  the 
exudation  of  Ferreira  (Andira,  SaldanJui)  spectabilis,  Allemao,  and  suggested  that  some 
kino-like  extracts  from  this  and  allied  plants  had  been  used  as  substitutes  or  adulterations 
of  the  extract  of  rhatany. 

Other  Rhatany  Roots  have  occasionally  appeared  in  commerce. 

Para,  Brazilian,  or  Ceara  Rhatany  was  described  by  Berg  (1865)  and  by  J.  G.  S.  Cotton 
(1868)  in  two  varieties  as  rhatanhia  des  Antilles.  It  has  a dark  gray-brown  or  blackish  bark, 
which  adheres  firmly  to  the  flexible  vTood,  and  is  longitudinally  striate  or  transversely  short- 
fissured,  sometimes  dotted  with  circular  warts,  and  breaks  with  a glossy  somewrhat  resinous  frac- 
ture. The  relative  proportion  of  bark  to  wood  is  about  the  same  as  in  the  Savanilla  variety,  but 
the  bark  is  not  deep-fissured  and  is  destitute  of  a purple  tint.  Its  alcoholic  tincture  behaves 
nearly  like  that  of  the  former  root.  Fluckiger  and  Hanbury  refer  it  to  Krameria  argentea, 
Mart ius , which  is  known  in  Brazil  as  ratanhia  da  terra.  Several  other  species  of  Krameria 
besides  the  two  named  are  indigenous  to  Brazil. 

Krameria  cistoidea,  Hooker , a native  of  Chili,  produces  a root  which,  according  to  Schroff 
(1869),  closely  resembles  Payta  rhatany ; the  wood  of  the  thick  main  root  is  pale-reddish  in  the 
outer  layer  and  brown-red  in  the  centre. 

Texas  rhatany  has  been  described  by  Berg;  it  is  derived  from  Kr.  secundiflora,  De  Candolle , 
and  consists  of  a roundish  root-stock  about  2 inches  (5  Cm.)  thick,  from  wdiich  a number  of  lonn- 
roots  emanate  which  have  a blackish-brown,  internally  reddish,  bark  of  the  same  thickness  as 

the  wood. 

Action  and  Uses. — In  small  doses  slightly  tonic,  in  larger  doses  astringent,  in 
still  larger  doses  rhatany  causes  dyspeptic  uneasiness  and  oppression,  with  constipation — 
effects  probably  due  to  its  astringent  qualities.  It  has  been  chiefly  employed  to  restrain 
hemorrhages  of  every  variety,  but  is  most  efficient  in  those  of  the  passive  sort,  and  par- 
ticularly in  that  form  of  uterine  haemorrhage  in  wdiich  the  flow,  without  being  profuse, 
is  habitual.  It  is  not  without  utility,  as  an  internal  medicine,  in  uterine  leucorrheea.  It 
may  be  used  with  benefit  in  atonic  and  chronic  diarrhoea , and  in  incontinence  of  urine 
from  debility  of  the  urinary  organs. 

Locally,  it  is  applied  by  injection  to  the  treatment  of  dysentery , vaginal  leucorrhoea , and 
gleet,  and  has  enjoyed  considerable  reputation  as  a remedy  for  fissure  of  the  anus.  Its 
mode  of  action  is  thought  to  consist  partly  in  constringing  the  walls  of  the  rectum,  and 
thereby  preventing  the  formation  there  of  a large  fecal  mass,  which  tends  to  stretch  the 
fissures  and  render  defecation  more  painful.  But  it  appears  also  to  promote  directly  the 
58 


914 


LABDANUM.-LAB  URNUM. 


healing  of  the  fissures  by  limiting  the  amount  of  blood  that  reaches  them.  The  applica- 
tion of  it  consists  merely  in  emptying  the  rectum  with  an  emollient  enema,  and  half  an 
hour  later  throwing  into  the  bowel  a solution  of  Gm.  4-6  (gr.  lx-xc)  of  extract  of 
rhatany  in  5 ounces  of  water.  This  enema  is  employed  night  and  morning,  and  on  both 
occasions  it  is  retained  for  only  a few  moments,  or  else  it  is  allowed  to  run  out  at  once, 
and  is  again  thrown  into  the  bowel ; and  this  process  is  renewed  for  several  minutes  at  a 
time.  The  bowels  are  meanwhile  prevented  from  becoming  confined  by  the  use  of  appro- 
priate food  or  of  gentle  laxative,  such  as  sulphur,  cassia,  etc.,  or,  as  has  been  especially 
recommended,  the  administration  of  powdered  belladona-root  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.06  (1 
grain)  or  less,  given  at  night.  The  administration  of  the  enema,  which  is  painful  at 
first,  gradually  and  indeed  rapidly  ceases  to  be  so,  and  if  steadily  persevered  in  a cure  is 
usually  effected. 

A watery  solution  of  rhatany  or  its  extract  is  of  service  in  the  treatment  of  fissured 
nipples.  A mixture  of  the  extract  with  white  of  egg  may  also  be  employed.  The  part 
should  be  cleansed  when  the  child  nurses,  which  ought  to  be  as  seldom  as  possible.  In 
non-syphilitic  ozsena  an  infusion  of  rhatany  is  sometimes  serviceable,  introduced  into  the 
nostrils  with  a sponge  or  injected  with  a nasal  douche  several  times  a day.  The  addition 
of  chlorinated  soda  is  advantageous,  or  chloride  of  lime  may  be  added  to  the  infusion  in 
the  proportion  of  Gm.  0.30-0.60  (gr.  v-x)  to  Gm.  32  (f^j)  of  liquid,  which,  after 
standing  for  a time,  should  be  strained. 

Powdered  rhatany  is  seldom  employed,  but  may  be  prescribed  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.50- 
2.0  (gr.  viii-xxx)  ; the  extract,  fluid  extract,  and  tincture  are  officinal. 

LABDANUM. — Labdanum. 

Resina  ladanum. — Labdanum , Ladanum , E.,  Fr.,  G.,  Sp. 

A resinous  exudation  of  Cistus  creticus,  Linne , C.  cyprius,  Lamarck , C.  ladaniferus, 
Linne,  and  of  other  species  of  Cistus.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 24. 

Nat.  Ord. — Cistaceae. 

Collection. — The  resinous  exudation  of  these  handsome  shrubs,  indigenous  to  Greece 
and  the  Levant,  is  collected  during  hot  weather  by  means  of  the  labdanisterion , consist- 
ing of  a wooden  handle  with  many  narrow  leather  bands  on  one  end,  which  are  drawn 
over  the  branches,  the  resin  being  afterward  scraped  off,  and  often  kneaded  together  with 
sand  and  other  material.  An  inferior  kind  is  obtained  from  the  wool,  and  hairs  of  sheep 
and  goats  which  feed  on  the  plants,  either  by  combing  or  after  shearing,  by  boiling  with 
water. 

Description. — Labdanum  is  met  with  in  two  forms — either  as  blackish  or  dark- 
brown  masses,  which  soften  and  become  glutinous  in  the  hands,  and  are  gray  upon  the 
fresh  fracture,  the  color  soon  becoming  darker,  or  as  cylindrical  rolls  about  the  thickness 
of  a finger  and  rolled  spirally  into  flat  pieces.  Sometimes  it  is  also  in  cylindrical  sticks 
somewhat  of  the  shape  of  liquorice.  Good  labdanum  is  insoluble  in  water,  almost  com- 
pletely soluble  in  alcohol,  fusible,  burns  when  ignited  with  a bright  flame,  and  has  an 
agreeable  balsamic  odor  and  a bitter  taste.  The  roll  and  stick  labdanum  are  frequently 
adulterated  or  artificially  made. 

Constituents. — According  to  Guibourt,  cake  labdanum  contains  86  per  cent,  of 
resin  and  volatile  oil,  7 of  wax,  1 of  extractive  matter,  and  6 per  cent,  of  insoluble 
impurities.  Pelletier  found  in  roll  labdanum  only  20  per  cent,  of  resin  and  72  per  cent, 
of  sand. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  singularly  grateful  odor  of  this  resin  led  to  its  being 
made  use  of  in  the  most  ancient  times  for  the  fumigation  of  rooms  and  clothing,  and  as 
a medicine  both  internally  and  externally  for  the  same  purposes  as  other  aromatic  resins. 
It  was  prescribed  internally  and  by  fumigation  for  chronic  bronchitis,  and  locally  in  leu- 
corrhoea  and  other  uterine  affections ; it  was  also  prized  as  a diuretic.  Later  it  became 
an  ingredient  of  various  stimulant  plasters.  Its  use  is  now  obsolete. 

LABURNUM. — Laburnum. 

Golden  chain , Bean  trefoil,  E. ; Faux  ebenier,  Cytise , Fr. ; Goldregen,  Bohnenbaam,  G. 

Cytisus  Laburnum,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Leguminosas,  Papilionaceae. 

Description. — This  is  a tall  shrub  or  low  tree  indigenous  to  Southern  Europe,  and 
planted  in  this  country  for  ornament.  It  grows  to  the  height  of  4,  5 or  6 M.  (15  or  20 


LA  B URNUM.—LA  C. 


915 


feet),  and  has  a smooth  bark.  The  leaves  are  on  slender  petioles,  trifoliate,  with  nearly 
sessile,  oval-oblong,  obtuse,  and  mucronate  leaflets,  which  are  about  5 Cm.  (2  inches) 
long,  smooth  and  dark -green  above,  soft  hairy  and  grayish  beneath  ; they  have  a some- 
what saline,  bitterish,  and  slightly  acrid  taste.  The  golden-yellow  flowers  are  in  long 
hanging  racemes,  and  produce  linear,  obtuse  legumes  containing  glossy,  dark-brown, 
nearly  reniform  seeds  of  a disagreeable  bitter  and  acrid  taste. 

Constituents. — Chevallier  and  Lassaigne  obtained  the  bitter  principle  of  the  ripe 
seed  in  an  amorphous  condition  and  named  it  cytisiii.  T.  Scott  Gray  (1862)  obtained,  in 
addition  thereto,  laburnic  acid  and  two  neutral  bitter  principles,  cystin  ( cytistin  ?)  and 
labnrnin , which  are  present  chiefly  in  the  seed  and  bark.  These  principles  appear  to  be 
the  more  or  less  impure  alkaloid  citysine  of  Husemann  and  Marme  (1865).  This  is  white, 
crystallizable,  inodorous,  of  a bitterish  and  somewhat  caustic  taste  and  strong  alkaline 
reaction,  easily  soluble  in  water  and  alcohol,  but  nearly  insoluble  in  ether,  chloroform, 
benzene,  and  carbon  disulphide;  it  melts  at  154.5°  C.  (310°  F.),  and  is  sublimable  in  thin 
needles  or  scales.  Warm  nitric  acid  colors  it  orange-yellow  ; sulphuric  acid  and  potas- 
sium dichromate,  yellow,  brown,  and  green.  The  salts  are  mostly  deliquescent,  and  crys- 
tallize with  difficulty.  Its  composition  is  C2oH27N30.  The  leaves  contain  only  traces  of 
it ; it  is  likewise  found  in  the  seeds  of  other  species  of  Cytisus. 

Action  and  Uses. — 4n  medicinal  doses  laburnum  induces  a degree  of  languor  and 
tendency  to  sleep,  rather  confines  than  relaxes  the  bowels,  and  very  slightly,  if  at  all, 
increases  the  urinary  secretion.  Larger  doses  are  very  apt  to  produce  a somewhat  sopo- 
rific effect,  and  are  sure  to  excite  vomiting,  and  sometimes  purging,  as  well  as  some 
quickness  of  the  pulse  and  giddiness.  The  same  effects  are  induced  by  cytisin,  and  each 
of  its  other  alleged  proximate  principles  appears  to  cause  some  drowsiness  and  contrac- 
tion of  the  pupils.  In  cases  of  poisoning  by  the  bark  or  berries,  which  have  been  very 
numerous  in  Europe,  the  effects  observed  are  remarkably  uniform.  They  comprise  the 
following  phenomena:  Vomiting;  pain  in  the  stomach,  which  is  sometimes  excruciating; 
purging ; dryness,  heat,  and  constriction  of  the  throat ; faintness,  languor,  vertigo,  drow- 
siness, or  a narcotic  sleep,  with  slow  and  stertorous  breathing,  followed  by  insomnia  ; 
the  eyes  are  dull  and  sunken,  the  pupils  dilated,  and  the  eyelids  dusky ; the  pulse  is 
very  weak  or  fluttering,  varying  between  90  and  100 ; thirst  is  usually  marked,  and  in 
the  worst  cases  muscular  twitching  of  the  neck  and  face  is  observed.  No  headache  or 
other  pain,  except  that  in  the  stomach,  is  complained  of,  nor  do  general  convulsions 
occur.  In  one  or  two  instances  the  urine  has  been  temporarily  grass-green  ( Med . Record , 
xii.  696).  In  no  case  has  death  been  observed. 

Laburnum  was  recommended  by  Dr.  Gray  in  bilious  dyspepsia , with  periodical  attacks 
of  bilious  vomiting,  diarrhoea,  and  constipation  in  the  intervals,  to  be  taken  in  such 
small  doses  as  not  to  sicken  the  patient,  thrice  daily  before  meals  and  continued  for  six 
or  eight  weeks.  He  also  regarded  it  as  an  efficient  medicine  for  children  who  vomit 
after  eating,  as  a palliative  of  ichooping  cough , of  the  nausea  and  sickness  of  pregnancy, 
of  asthma  connected  with  emphysema  of  the  lungs,  etc.  These  recommendations  have 
not,  as  yet,  been  confirmed  by  experience.  Their  author  proposed  for  use  a decoction 
of  laburnum  concentrated  until  it  attains  a specific  gravity  of  1.034,  to  be  given  in  doses 
of  from  2 to  40  minims.  The  dose  of  the  extract  is  stated  to  be  Gm.  0.006-0.06  (gr. 
j1^— 1)  ; of  laburnic  acid,  Gm.  0.06-0.35  (gr  j-vj);  of  laburnin,  Gm.  0.30-0.70  (gr.  v- 
xij).  Cytisine  or  its  nitrate  has  been  used  in  congestive  headache  (migraine)  in  doses 
of  Gm.  0.003-0.005  (gr.  tY)>  hypodermically.  Many  cases  of  poisoning  by  Lathy- 
RUS  cicera  are  on  record.  The  prominent  symptoms  are  lumbar  pain,  paresis  or  abnor- 
mal reflexes,  spasm  of  the  lower  limbs,  incontinence  of  urine,  etc.  (. Archives  gen.,  1883, 
ii.  230 ; Med.  Record , xxxi.  130 ; Therap.  Gaz.,  xii.  557). 

In  cases  of  poisoning  by  laburnum  the  stomach  should  be  evacuated  by  warm  water 
and  ammonia,  and  alcohol  administered  internally. 

LAC,  Br.— Milk. 

Lac  vacdnum. — Lait  de  vache , Fr.  Cod.  ; Milch , G. ; Latte , It. ; Leche , Sp. 

The  fresh  milk  of  the  cow,  Bos  Taurus,  Linni. 

Class  Mammalia  ; Order  Ruminantia. 

Description. — Cow’s  milk  is  an  opaque  white  liquid  having  a faint  alkaline  or  neu- 
tral reaction,  a slight  peculiar  odor,  and  a bland  and  sweet  taste ; its  specific  gravity  is 
about  1.030.  Viewed  under  the  microscope,  it  is  seen  to  be  a clear  and  transparent  liquid 
in  which  a large  number  of  minute  globules  are  suspended.  On  standing,  these  rise  to 


916 


LAC : 


the  surface  as  a yellowish  stratum,  the  cream,  which  constitutes  about  5.0  per  cent,  of 
the  milk,  and  consists  mainly  of  fat  mixed  with  some  casein  and  retaining  some  serum. 
By  churning  the  globules  unite  to  form  butter,  and  the  liquid  which  separates,  and  is 
known  as  buttermilk,  is  essentially  a solution  of  milk-sugar  and  the  saline  constituents  of 
milk,  and  contains  some  casein  and  butter.  The  milk  from  which  the  cream  has  been 
separated  is  called  skim  milk.  If  left  to  itself,  it  becomes  acid  and  separates  the  casein 
in  a coagulated  condition  called  curds ; the  same  effect  is  produced  by  rennet  and  by 
acids.  The  liquid  separated  from  the  coagulum  is  called  whey , and  contains  chiefly  milk- 
sugar  and  some  salts.  The  blue  color  sometimes  observed  in  milk,  according  to  Beiset 
(1883),  is  due  to  a blue  fungus. 

Milk  possesses  great  emulsifying  capacity,  forming  permanent  emulsions  on  agitation 
with  ether,  chloroform,  alcohol,  benzin,  carbon  disulphide,  etc.,  as  was  shown  by  Gust. 
Pile  (1883)  ; a mixture  of  equal  volumes  of  milk  and  chloroform  separates  but  slightly 
after  several  hours.  Milk  produces  a blue  color  with  tincture  of  guaiacum,  unless  it 
had  been  heated  to  about  80°  C.  (176°  F.)  or  a mineral  acid  or  caustic  alkali  had  been 
added. 

Constituents. — The  chemical  constituents  of  the  milk  of  mammals  are  qualita- 
tively alike,  but  quantitatively  vary  very  much  for  different  species,  for  different  indi- 
viduals, and  even  for  the  same  individual,  depending  in  the  latter  case  upon  the  length 
of  time  since  the  last  birth,  upon  the  kind  and  quantity  of  food,  and  upon  the  exertion 
or  rest  of  the  individual.  The  following  table  is  compiled  from  the  averages  given  by 
Lehmann  and  others  ( Physiol . Chemistry ) : 


Milk 

OF 

Woman. 

Cow. 

Mare. 

Goat. 

Sheep. 

Sow. 

Albuminoids  (protein  compounds) 

2.5 

4.1 

1.7 

5.0 

4.5 

6.2 

Fat  (butter) 

3.6 

4.0 

0.8 

3.7 

4.2 

5.8 

Milk-sugar 

6.5 

4.2 

8.8 

4.5 

5.0 

5.3 

Salts  (chiefly’phospliates) 

0.5 

0.7 

0.4 

0.6 

0.7 

0.9 

Total  solids 

2 3.1 

13.0 

11.7 

13.8 

14.4 

18.2 

Water 

86.9 

87.0 

88.3 

86.2 

85.6 

81.8 

The  albuminoids  consist  of  casein  and  lactoprotein.  Casein  is  not  coagulated  by  heat, 
but  on  evaporating  its  aqueous  solution  it  becomes  insoluble  and  separates  in  the  form 
of  a thin  skin  ; acetic  and  other  acids  coagulate  it ; so  does  rennet,  and  after  this  ceases 
to  have  any  further  effect,  acetic  acid  will  produce  another  coagulation.  The  protein  com- 
pounds of  the  different  milks,  however,  vary  slightly  in  their  behavior  to  some  reagents. 
Schmidt-Muehlheim  (1883)  showed  that  fresh  milk  contains  between  .08  and  .19  per  cent, 
of  peptone , and  that  this  quantity  is  increased  at  the  expense  of  the  casein  by  digestion 
at  40°  C.  (104°  F.).  To  obtain  the  peptone  the  protein  is  precipitated  with  table-salt 
and  acetic  acid,  and  afterward  the  peptone  by  phosphotungstic  acid ; this  precipitate,  dis- 
solved in  caustic  soda,  shows  the  reactions  of  peptone.  (See  Ovum.) 

Butter,  as  obtained  by  the  churning  of  cream,  is  a very  complex  mixture  of  fats  with 
small  quantities  of  an  odorous  principle,  casein,  milk-sugar,  salts,  and  water ; the  fats  are 
glycerides  of  butyric,  capronic,  caprinic,  myristic,  palmitic,  stearic,  and  oleic  acids,  some 
of  which  are  gradually  decomposed,  whereby  the  liquid  fatty  acids  are  liberated  and  the 
butter  turns  rancid. 

As  stated  above,  milk  left  to  itself  becomes  acid ; the  change  takes  place  in  conse- 
quence of  the  fermentation  of  milk-sugar  (see  Saccharum  Lactis)  induced  by  the  casein, 
whereby  lactic  acid  is  generated.  The  change  is  prevented,  for  some  time  at  least,  by  the 
addition  of  certain  compounds,  for  which  purpose  borax  has  been  recommended ; but 
boric  acid,  in  the  proportion  of  1 to  1000  milk,  as  recommended  by  Hirschberg  (1871), 
is  preferable,  as  not  altering  the  taste.  Salicylic  acid  (1  to  about  5000  milk)  has  also 
been  found  serviceable.  If  kept  in  vessels  closed  by  Appert’s  method,  it  separates  into 
several  strata,  but  remains  unchanged,  provided  it  had  been  heated  for  some  time  to  120° 
C.  (248°  F.).  Naegeli,  and  afterward  C.  Loew  (1882),  showed  that  milk  preserved  at  a 
lower  heat  gradually  becomes  intensely  bitter  and  brown,  the  albuminoids  being  pepton- 
ized and  partly  converted  into  leucin,  tyrosin,  and  ammonia,  and  the  milk-sugar  into  lac- 
tose and  glucose.  More  recently,  concentrated  or  condensed  milk  has  been  introduced, 
which  is  simply  fresh  milk  mixed  with  a certain  proportion  of  sugar  and  evaporated  at  a 
low  temperature  to  the  consistence  of  a thick  syrup  or  soft  extract,  in  which  condition  it 
will  keep  well. 

Adulteration. — When  milk  is  mixed  with  water  its  specific  gravity  is  lowered; 
skim  milk,  on  the  other  hand,  has  a higher  density.  To  detect  adulterations,  the  quan- 
tity of  the  solids  is  determined  by  evaporation  to  dryness ; from  this  the  amount  of  fat 


LAC. 


917 


is  ascertained  by  treating  with  ether  or  petroleum  benzin,  and  the  residue  is  either  incin- 
erated to  determine  the  amount  of  mineral  constituents  and  estimate  the  albuminoids 
and  sugar  combined  by  the  loss  in  weight,  or  the  residue  insoluble  in  ether  is  treated 
with  alcohol  and  water,  which  leave  casein  and  dissolve  the  sugar  and  salts.  Since  the 
milk  residue  is  dried  and  afterward  exhausted  with  difficulty,  some  chemists  prefer  to 
evaporate  the  milk  mixed  with  a known  quantity  of  dry  sand,  calcium  sulphate,  or  upon 
filtering-paper. 

Various  instruments,  called  lactometers , have  been  constructed  with  the  view  of  ascer- 
taining rapidly  the  purity  of  milk  by  determining  either  the  density,  the  degree  of  opa- 
city, the  percentage  of  cream,  or  the  amount  of  butter. 

Preparations  of  Milk. — Serum  lactis  dulce. — Whey,  E. ; Petit-lait,  Fr.;  Molken,  G. ; Siero 
di  latte,  It. ; Suero,  Sp. — Mix  fresh  cow’s  milk  200  parts  with  rennet  wine  1 part ; warm  to  35° 
or  40°  C.  (95°  or  104°  F.),  and  after  coagulation  strain  from  the  curd. 

Serum  lactis,  F.  Cod.  (Serum  lactis  acidum,  P.  A.). — Acid  whey,  E. ; Petit-lait  acidule, 
Fr.;  Saure  Molken,  G. — Heat  skim  milk  (fresh  milk.  P.  A.)  100  parts  to  boiling,  add  0.1  part 
of  citric  acid  dissolved  in  1 part  of  water  (or  1 part  of  vinegar,  P.  A.),  and  when  completely 
coagulated  strain  ; mix  the  strained  liquid  with  white  of  egg,  heat  to  boiling,  and  filter. 

Serum  lactis  aluminatum. — Alum  whey,  E. ; Petit-lait  alumineux,  Fr. ; Alaunmolken,  G. — 
Milk  100  parts,  powdered  alum  1 part : heat  to  boiling  and  strain. 

Serum  lactis  tamarindinatum. — Tamarind  whey,  E. ; Petit-lait  tamarind,  Fr. ; Tamarinden- 
Molken,  G. — Milk  100  parts,  tamarinds  4 parts ; heat  and  strain.  The  whey  has  a brownish 
color. 

Serum  lactis  D.  Weiss  (Petit-lait  de  Weiss,  F.  Cod.). — Senna-pods  2 Gm..  magnesium  sulphate 
2 Gm..  St.  Johnswort  1 Gm.,  Galium  Mollugo  1 Gm.,  elder-flowers  1 Gm.,  boiling  whey  500  Gm., 
digest  for  half  an  hour,  strain,  and  filter. 

Koumys  or  Kumiss  is  fermented  mare’s  milk,  which  is  extensively  employed  as  a beverage  and 
for  medicinal  purposes  by  the  Kirgheez,  Kalmucks,  Turkomans,  Nogays,  and  other  nomad  tribes 
of  the  Russian  Empire.  The  process  for  preparing  it  differs  somewhat  with  the  different  tribes, 
but  in  all  cases  consists  in  inducing  fermentation  by  the  addition  of  yeast  to  fresh  mare’s  milk, 
and  in  stirring  this  occasionally ; the  product  obtained  in  about  12  hours  is  known  as  ssaumal 
or  staumgal ; on  being  kept  for  several  days  it  becomes  much  stronger,  of  a more  decided  acid 
taste,  and  very  sparkling  from  the  confined  carbonic  acid  gas.  For  the  preparation  of  lac  fer- 
mentation or  milk  wine  from  cow's  milk  the  following  directions  are  given  by  the  National 
Formulary , based  upon  the  formula  recommended  by  Wilckens  (1874) : Dissolve  sugar,  1 troy 
oz.,  in  fresh  cow’s  milk,  1 quart,  contained  in  a strong  bottle,  add  semi-liquid  yeast,  60  minims, 
cork  the  bottle  securely  and  keep  it  at  a temperature  between  23°  and  32°  C,  (75°  to  90°  F.)  for 
6 hours ; then  transfer  it  to  a cold  place.  The  proportions  used  by  Dr.  L.  Wolff  (1880)  are : 
Grape-sugar  £ ounce,  water  4 ounces,  compressed  yeast  20  grains,  cow's  milk  sufficient  for  a 
quart  champagne-bottle ; ferment  for  3 or  4 days  at  10°  C.  (50°  F.)  or  less ; this  koumys  will 
keep  4 or  5 days.  According  to  Jagielski  (1874),  the  fermentation,  once  started,  will  continue 
in  corked  bottles  and  at  a low  temperature,  resulting  in  an  increase  of  alcohol,  carbonic  acid, 
and  lactic  acid ; cow’s  milk  is  preferable  for  the  preparation  of  koumys,  this  being  free  from 
disagreeable  odor  and  taste.  For  special  purposes  the  milk  is  somewhat  diluted  before  fermenta- 
tion or  the  whey  only  used  in  making  koumys. 

Kephir  or  Kefir,  the  milk  wine  of  certain  Caucasian  tribes,  is  prepared  by  them  from  sheep’s 
and  goat's  milk  with  a ferment  consisting  of  yeast  and  a species  of  bacteria.  Diospora  caucasica, 
Kern  (1881),  possibly  a species  of  Leptothrix  : the  fermentation  takes  place  in  leather  bags.  The 
peculiarity  of  kephir,  according  to  Biel  (1885),  depends  mainly  upon  changes  in  the  casein. 
According  to  Kugelmann  (1886),  a milk  wine  closely  resembling  kephir  is  obtained  by  ferment- 
ing in  bottles  a mixture  of  1 volume  of  buttermilk  with  1 or  2 volumes  of  sweet  milk. 

Medical  History. — In  the  Hebrew  Scriptures  milk  is  constantly  referred  to  for  its 
precious  qualities  as  food,  and  no  more  striking  figure  could  be  employed  to  represent  the 
exuberant  riches  of  a country  than  that  it  was  a “ land  flowing  with  milk  and  honey 
that  is  to  say,  suitable  for  raising  herds  and  grain.  Milk  is  the  most  essential  article  of 
food  for  man  before  his  teeth  are  matured  for  mastication,  as  well  as  in  that  second  child- 
hood when  “ the  grinders  cease  because  they  are  few,*’  especially  when  it  is  associated 
with  wine,  which  is  “ the  milk  of  old  age.”  Not  less  does  it  become  the  essential  and 
most  salutary  food  of  man  when  at  any  period  of  his  life  he  is  enfeebled  by  disease. 
The  qualities  that  adapt  it  to  these  several  states  or  conditions  of  life  are — the  facility 
of  eating  it,  for  it  requires  no  mastication  ; the  rapidity  of  digesting  it,  since  it  needs  but 
little  change  to  convert  it  into  assimilable  material ; and  the  small  amount  of  waste 
which  it  involves  and  of  digestive  power  which  it  requires,  since  the  fecal  residue  of  its 
digestion  is  less  than  is  left  by  any  other  food. 

The  ancients  used  milk  from  the  cow,  the  camel,  the  mare,  the  ass,  the  goat,  and  the 
sheep,  and  attributed  to  several  of  these  products  special  virtues  or  defects ; thus,  sheep’s 
milk  was  considered  binding,  ass’s  and  goat’s  milk  rather  relaxing,  and  to  cow’s  milk 


918 


LAC. 


intermediate  qualities  were  ascribed.  A full  summary  of  the  subject  is  furnished  by 
Pliny,  who  represents  human  milk  as  the  most  nutritious,  and  goat’s  milk  as  next  in 
strength,  and  he  calls  to  memory  the  myth  that  Jupiter  was  suckled  by  a goat.  The 
mildest  milk,  according  to  Pliny,  is  the  camel’s.  He  very  correctly  remarks  that  crude 
miik  is  more  flatulent  and  less  wholesome  than  boiled  milk.  lie  states  that  milk  is  used 
for  all  manner  of  internal  inflammations,  including  those  of  the  kidneys,  bladder,  bowels, 
throat,  and  lungs,  and  externally  for  itching  and  watery  eruptions  of  the  skin,  and  refers 
to  its  employment,  as  Celsus  also  did,  in  the  cure  of  phthisis.  He  speaks  of  its  value  in 
other  cachexise,  and  especially  of  the  cure  of  chronic  gout  by  ass’s  milk,  and  also  of  milk 
in  general  in  the  treatment  of  dysentery  and  of  poisoning  by  colchicum,  conium,  etc.  He 
refers  particularly  to  ass’s  milk  in  marasmus  and  other  wasting  diseases,  and  to  the  use 
in  affections  of  the  spleen  of  milk  from  goats  that  had  fed  on  ivy.  He  describes  the 
mode  of  preparing  whey,  and  its  uses  in  epilepsy,  melancholy,  paralysis,  and  diseases  of 
the  skin.  Milk  was  also  applied  topically  in  ophthalmia  and  in  ulcerations  of  the  mouth, 
throat,  and  uterus.  According  to  Galen,  cows  were  fed  with  certain  medicinal  plants  in 
order  to  render  their  milk  curative  of  particular  diseases.  Arabian  physicians  used  a milk 
diet  in  consumption.  About  the  beginning  of  the  eighteenth  century  the  milk  treatment 
enjoyed  a great  vogue  under  the  influence  of  F.  Hoffmann.  Since  1865,  when  Karell 
prescribed  the  systematic  use  of  skim  milk  as  the  sole  remedy  for  various  chronic  diseases, 
his  method  has  been  adopted  by  prominent  physicians  in  several  countries.  The  secretion 
with  the  milk  of  various  drugs  and  medicines  is  a subject  of  much  importance,  but  can- 
not occupy  us  here.  (See  Stumpf,  Deutsches  Archie  fur  klinische  Medicin , Jan.  18,  1882  ; 
Dolan,  Practitioner , xxvi.  85,  165,  251,  381,  477.) 

Medical  Action  and  Uses. — According  to  Randolph  and  Roussell,  and  also  to 
Jessen,  raw  milk  is  more  readily  acted  upon  by  rennet  than  boiled  milk,  while  acids  more 
promptly  dissolve  the  latter.  From  their  numerous  observations  it  also  followed  that 
boiled  milk  is  digested  more  slowly  than  raw  milk  ( Med . News , xliv.  725;  Vasilieff,  ib., 
lvi.  100).  Reichmann,  however,  reached  an  opposite  conclusion,  finding  that  raw  milk  was 
detained  in  the  stomach  longer  than  boiled  milk  (Zeitsch.  f h.  Med.,  ix.  565);  while 
Dujardin-Beaumetz  contended  that  boiled  and  raw  milk  are  equally  digestible  (Bull,  de 
Therap .,  cxi.  15).  We  cannot  doubt  that  warm  is  more  acceptable  to  the  stomach  than 
cold  milk,  whether  it  require  a longer  or  a shorter  time  to  be  digested.  The  latter  is  a 
scientific,  the  former  a practical  and  clinical,  question.  A capital  point  has  been  insisted 
upon  by  Hoffmann  (Zeitschrift  f.  k.  Med.,  vii.  (Suppl.)  19,  viz.  that  different  specimens 
of  pure  milk  possess  very  unequal  nutritive  powers ; that  they  vary  with  the  season  of 
the  year  and  the  food,  etc.  of  the  cows ; that  the  quantity  of  the  milk  which  is  ample  for 
the  child  in  arms  or  for  the  adult  confined  to  bed  is  insufficient  for  the  child  that  has 
learned  to  walk  or  for  the  adult  that  leads  an  active  or  laborious  life ; and  that  all  rules 
are  worthless  that  fix  beforehand  a certain  quantity  for  individual  patients.  In  connection 
with  the  use  of  mother’s  milk  for  food,  it  should  be  remembered  that  this  secretion  may 
convey  certain  substances  from  the  mother  to  the  child,  among  which  may  be  mentioned 
various  purgatives  and  nearly  all  narcotics,  ferrocyanide  and  iodide  of  potassium,  several 
preparations  of  mercury,  salicylate  of  sodium,  iodoform,  etc.  The  special  action  of  milk, 
considered  as  a therapeutical  agent,  is  that,  while  it  affords  sufficient  nutriment,  it  mod- 
erates the  stimulating  action  of  the  blood  and  restricts  the  excrementitious  waste  derived 
from  the  food,  thereby  enabling  the  organs  which  are  obstructed  by  blood,  by  secretions, 
or  by  more  or  less  plastic  exudations  to  purge  themselves  of  these  hindrances  to  a free  and 
normal  action.  In  a word,  it  gives  rest,  which  is  the  primary  condition  of  cure,  and 
removes  hindrances  to  a return  of  that  functional  activity  which  is  an  essential  condition 
of  health.  The  milk  treatment  is  essentially  a “hunger  treatment,”  and  is  analogous  to 
that  natural  ‘and  instinctive  abstinence  from  food  which  is  observed  in  all  acute  febrile 
diseases  and  in  the  greater  number  of  chronic  disorders,  and  which  is  the  cry  of  Nature 
to  be  let  alone — to  be  spared  that  officious  assiduity  which  is  as  mischievous  in  dietetics 
as  in  medicinal  therapeutics.  This  we  conceive  to  be  the  simple  explanation  of  the  cura- 
tive powers  of  milk.  Dr.  S.  Weir  Mitchell  has  stated  that  during  the  treatment  by  skim 
milk  patients  always  lose  weight  at  first,  and  that  so  long  as  its  use  is  continued  uric  acid 
completely  disappears  from  the  urine,  which  becomes  pale  and  whey-like,  while  the  feces 
grow  pale,  hard,  and  odorless.  According  to  Chibret,  an  exclusive  milk  diet  increases  by 
60  per  cent,  the  urea  excreted  ( Boston  Jour.,  Nov.,  1887,  p.  486),  while  augmenting  the 
secretion  of  urine.  Its  diuretic  action  is  attributed  by  See  to  the  sugar  it  contains  ( Jour- 
nal de  Med.,  Juin,  1889).  Tortured  as  it  may  be  by  physiological  experiment,  milk 
reveals  no  special  action  upon  this  or  that  organ  or  anatomical  element,  but  so  modifies 


LAC. 


919 


the  whole  system  as  to  restore  its  soundness  without  the  aid  of  drugs,  or  else  enables 
them  to  produce  results  which  without  its  aid  they  would  have  been  unable  to  accom- 
plish. It  is  perhaps  not  always  remembered  that  milk  and  alcohol  in  the  form  ol  “ milk 
punch”  contain  at  once  the  most  perfect  nutrient  and  the  most  efficient  condiment  that 
could  possibly  be  used  under  the  circumstances  in  which  this  preparation  is  usually 
employed. 

Of  all  forms  of  food  that  can  be  used  in  fevers  and  inflammations , there  is  no  doubt 
that  milk  is  the  best  whenever  the  decline  of  the  fever  and  the  process  of  wasting  have 
begun.  Before  this  period  watery  preparations  of  starchy  products,  especially  of  barley 
and  rice,  are  sufficient,  but  as  soon  as  tissue-waste  shows  itself  a portion  of  milk  should 
be  added  to  them,  and  gradually  increased  until  it  forms  the  principal  part  of  the  nour- 
ishment or  is  supplemented  by  the  stimulant  operation  of  beef-tea  or  the  nutriment  of 
meat-soup.  A theoretical  objection  has  been  urged  against  milk  as  food  in  acute  articular 
rheumatism , that  it  tends  directly  to  increase  the  lactic  acid  which  is  assumed  to  be  the 
morbid  material  of  the  disease.  But  the  theory,  however  plausible,  is  not  proven.  The 
use  of  milk,  either  in  the  form  of  whey,  skimmed  milk,  or  milk  diluted  with  water,  is 
commended  by  most  clinicians  in  this  affection,  Bartholow  saying  ( Times  and  Gazette , 
Mar.,  1880,  p.  326),  “ Large  draughts  of  milk  are  useful  in  maintaining  the  free  action 
of  the  kidneys  and  Howard  (Pepper’s  System  of  Medicine , ii.  69),  that  “ the  diet  in  the 
early  actively  febrile  stage  should  consist  of  panada,  ....  milk  and  barley-water,  or 
even  pure  milk.”  In  less  acute  affections,  and  especially  in  those  attended  with  suppura- 
tion or  an  excessive  discharge  of  blood,  serum,  or  mucus,  nothing  so  well  as  milk  main- 
tains the  strength  without  tending  to  excite  fever.  When  inflammatory  or  ulcerative 
lesions  exist  in  the  stomach  or  bowels,  the  use  of  milk  can  hardly  be  dispensed  with. 
With  regard  to  the  former,  it  may  be  remarked  that  a milk  diet  is  almost  a matter  of 
necessity,  and  is  the  surest  means  of  nourishing  the  patient  while  nature  gradually 
restores  the  normal  condition  of  the  stomach.  In  simple  gastric  ulcer  it  is  the  one  remedy 
which  may  be  depended  upon  for  a permanent  cure ; and  in  cancer  of  the  stomach  or 
bowels  it  is  infinitely  the  best  palliative,  and  the  only  one  by  means  of  which  life  may 
with  any  certainty  be  prolonged.  But  in  these  and  similar  cases  the  quantity  of  the 
milk  employed  must  be  carefully  adjusted  to  the  tolerance  of  the  digestive  organs,  and, 
if  necessary,  its  retention  favored  and  its  assimilation  promoted  by  the  addition  of  lime- 
water  or  by  preceding  the  administration  of  each  portion  with  a dose  of  bismuth  ; but  along 
with  these  articles  must  be  given,  according  to  circumstances,  the  more  nutritious  articles 
already  indicated.  The  same  remarks  apply  to  diarrhoea  and  dysentery , both  in  their 
acute  and  chronic  forms,  provided  that  in  the  acute  disease  whey  or  milk-and-water  or 
buttermilk  is  employed  rather  than  pure  milk.  The  last  is  most  efficient  in  the  chronic 
affection,  if  it  be  administered  with  a due  regard  to  its  tolerance  by  the  patient.  In  cir- 
rhosis of  the  liver  a diet  largely  composed  of  skimmed  milk  renders  an  important  service 
both  as  a nutrient  and  a diuretic  and  depurant  (Bartholow).  Semmola  says  that  as  long 
as  the  hepatic  lesion  is  limited  to  an  embryonal  neo-formation  a good  result  may  be 
hoped  for  from  a rigorous  milk  diet  ( Therap.  Gaz.,  xiii.  644).  In  almost  all  of  the  gas- 
tric disorders  in  which  vomiting  depends  upon  irritability  of  the  stomach  lime-water  and 
milk  in  equal  proportions,  and  in  small  doses , form  one  of  the  most  efficient  remedies.  M. 
Debove  has  proposed  that  in  order  to  introduce  into  the  stomach  the  largest  necessary 
quantity  of  milk  there  should  be  added  to  the  skim  milk  to  be  given  a proportion  of 
desiccated  milk  in  pulverulent  form,  so  that  the  percentage  of  nutritive  matter  in  the 
mixture  shall  be  much  greater  than  in  milk  alone.  When  feeding  by  the  stomach  is  no 
longer  possible,  milk  may  be  given  by  enema  with  some,  even  if  small,  advantage,  pro- 
vided it  has  added  to  it  sodium  bicarbonate  and  pancreatic  emulsion.  In  not  a few  cases 
albuminuria  due  to  desquamative  nephritis  has  been  cured  by  the  persistent  use  of  an 
exclusive  milk  diet,  and  in  others  by  an  association  with  it  of  ferruginous-saline  mineral 
waters  or  of  officinal  preparations  of  iron.  Even  in  those  less  curable  cases  of  interstitial 
nephritis  associated  with  hepatic  and  cardiac  lesions  there  can  be  no  doubt  that  this 
method  tends  to  remove  the  dropsy,  and  at  the  same  time  to  quiet  the  morbid  violence 
of  the  heart’s  action,  while  it  greatly  improves  the  nutrition  of  the  system.  (Compare 
llobinson,  Therap . Gaz.,  xiii.  101  ; Senator,  Therap.  Monatsch.,  iv.  351.)  Some  years 
ago  several  physicians  announced  the  cure  of  diabetes  by  a skim-milk  diet,  but  others 
found  that  this  mode  of  treatment  aggravated  the  disease  (Bull,  de  Therap .,  cxvi.  509). 
Nevertheless,  prolonged  experience  has  proved,  however  contrary  it  may  be  to  scientific 
prevision,  that  this  method  sometimes  causes  a complete  disappearance  of  sugar  from  the 
urine,  and  in  a majority  of  cases  reduces  it  greatly,  moderating,  of  course  and  at  the 


920 


LAC. 


same  time,  the  thirst,  dryness  of  the  skin,  etc.  It  seems  probable  also  that  skimmed  is 
much  more  salutary  than  unskimmed  milk.  Through  a somewhat  similar  mode  of  action 
a milk  diet  becomes  a palliative  or  a cure  of  gall-stones  and  of  urinary  calculi.  In  regard 
to  a milk  diet  in  chronic  diseases  of  the  lungs,  whether  tuberculous  or  bronchitic,  with 
their  associated  affections  pleurisy  and  emphysema,  it  suffices  to  say  that,  as  a rule,  it  is 
contraindicated,  as  affording  too  little  nutriment  when  there  is  need  of  all  that  can  be 
assimilated.  In  point  of  fact,  a milk  diet,  as  such,  never  cured,  or  even  ameliorated,  any 
one  of  them  ; but  its  use  has  been  followed  by  favorable  results,  even  in  consumption,  when 
it  has  been  associated  with  other  favorable  hygienic  influences,  such  as  a pure,  dry  atmo- 
sphere, active  and  regular  exercise,  a complete  change  in  the  habits  of  living,  abstention 
from  the  use  of  perturbative  drugs,  and  a nutritious  diet  fitted  to  compensate  for  the 
defects  of  the  milk  regimen  in  this  respect.  In  diseases  of  the  heart , and  especially  in 
mitral  obstruction,  a milk  diet  goes  far  to  palliate  the  effects  of  that  mechanical  obstruc- 
tion of  the  circulation;  that  is  to  say,  it  relieves  dyspnoea,  lessens  palpitation,  pain,  and 
dropsy,  and  increases  the  urine,  and,  in  a word,  lessens  all  the  consequences  of  passive 
congestion,  whether  in  brain,  lungs,  stomach,  bowels,  kidneys,  etc.  (Hoegerstedt,  Zeitscli. 
Min.  Med.,  xvi.  16).  In  almost  every  cachectic  condition  milk  is  the  most  reliable  article 
of  food.  Different  kinds  of  milk,  and  especially  ass’s  and  goat’s  milk,  have  been  reputed 
to  be  remedies  for  consumption  and  scrofula  ; and  beyond  a doubt  a milk  diet,  with  an 
appropriate  regimen  in  other  respects,  is  a very  efficient  means  of  invigorating  the  stru- 
mous constitution.  Lime-water,  which  has  always  had  a similar  reputation,  should  be 
associated  with  the  milk.  A milk-and-vegetable  diet  has  long  been  used  in  the  treatment 
of  epilepsy,  and  its  operation  is  intelligible  by  analogy  when  we  consider  that  every  rem- 
edy that  has  been  most  useful  in  this  disease,  from  the  time  of  Aretaeus,  who  declared, 
“ from  flesh  in  particular  the  patient  is  to  be  entirely  restricted,”  down  to  the  introduction 
of  the  bromides,  has  been  a sedative  of  the  nervous  and  circulatory  systems.  Milk  is 
one  of  the  most  convenient  and  efficient  antidotes  for  nearly  all  corrosive  poisons,  acids, 
alkalies,  and  metallic  salts,  because  with  some  of  them  it  forms  compounds  that  are  not 
readily  soluble,  and  all  of  them  it  envelopes  in  its  curd,  and  thus  tends  to  prevent  inflam- 
mation or  absorption  until  proper  emetics  can  be  administered. 

The  close  analogies  of  milk  and  chyle  led  to  the  use  of  the  former  by  its  injection  into 
the  veins,  which  was  tried  by  Donne  in  1842,  and  without  causing  any  alarming  symp- 
toms. Later  it  was  employed  fruitlessly  by  Bovell  and  by  Herepath  in  cholera,  and  about 
1860  by  Hodder  of  Toronto  in  a case  of  complete  collapse,  in  which  reaction  and  recovery 
followed.  Subsequently,  Dr.  Howe,  and  then  Dr.  Thomas  of  New  York,  made  use  of  the 
same  method,  the  one  in  phthisis,  the  other  in  traumatic  hsemorrhage,  and  in  no  case  did 
any  threatening  symptoms  arise  when  the  milk  employed  was  perfectly  fresh.  The  latter 
physician  pronounced  it  a safe  and  legitimate  remedy,  expressing  his  conviction  that  the 
intravenous  injection  of  milk  will  answer  nearly  as  good  a purpose  as  that  of  blood,  and 
predicting  for  it  a brilliant  and  useful  future.  Subsequently,  however,  Dr.  Howe  per- 
formed a number  of  experiments  upon  dogs,  depleting  the  animals,  and  then  injecting 
into  the  veins  or  the  arteries  a less  amount  of  milk  than  that  of  the  blood  abstracted. 
Thus  he  removed  by  depletion  from  8 to  16  ounces  of  blood,  and  replaced  it  with  from  6 
to  10  ounces  of  milk.  All  of  the  animals  died,  but  two  dogs  bled  in  the  same  manner, 
and  not  injected,  recovered.  Certain  experiments  of  Brown-Sequard  proved  that  much 
smaller  quantities  of  milk,  such  as  95  Gm.  (§iij),  might,  under  similar  circumstances,  be 
tolerated.  Afterward,  Wolfsberg  found  that  animals  would  bear  the  injection  of  milk  to 
the  extent  of  three-fourths  of  1 per  cent,  of  the  quantity  of  blood  abstracted,  but  that 
more  than  this  speedily  destroyed  them.  He  also  was  unable  to  preserve  the  life  of  dogs 
by  this  treatment ; their  weight  declined,  and  they  died  of  inanition  without  obvious  dis- 
ease. Meanwhile,  attempts  were  made  to  preserve  or  prolong  life  by  this  treatment  in 
patients  affected  with  various  diseases  by  Hunter  and  Pepper  in  America  and  Macdon- 
nell  and  Meldon  in  Europe,  with  results  which  did  not  sustain  the  favorable  anticipations 
referred  to  above,  and  which  had  led  Dr.  Thomas  to  state  that  intravenous  injection  of 
milk  should  be  used  not  only  in  hsemorrhage,  but  also  in  Asiatic  cholera,  pernicious 
anaemia,  typhoid  fever,  and  puerperal  convulsions.  Dr.  Howe,  who  was  the  first  in  this 
country  to  employ  it,  declares  not  only  that  his  own  experience  gives  him  little  faith  in 
its  utility,  but  that  “ it  is  a dangerous  operation,  and  one  that  should  only  be  resorted  to 
when  blood  cannot  be  obtained.”  In  several  cases  the  patient  was  attacked  with  vertigo, 
dimness  of  vision,  twitching  of  the  eyeballs,  and  dyspnoea.  In  other  cases  it  conferred 
no  sensible  or  lasting  advantage,  but  only  postponed  the  fatal  result.  Dr.  Pepper,  who 
employed  it  in  a case  of  progressive  organic  anaemia,  effected  no  material  relief,  and  was 


LAC. 


921 


of  opinion  that  in  cases  of  intense  anaemia  connected  with  serious  but  curable  disease, 
although  doubtless  of  much  service,  the  severe  symptoms  following  the  operation  and  its 
more  immediate  dangers  render  it  improper  until  all  other  remedies  have  failed.  Jen- 
nings claimed  that  the  intravenous  injection  of  “ a small  quantity  of  newly-drawn  milk 
is  harmless”  {Brit.  Med.  Jour .,  June,  1885).  It  is  difficult  to  conceive  on  what  rational 
grounds  such  an  operation  should  ever  have  been  undertaken.  Its  proposers  would  seem 
to  have  considered  that  the  elaborate  mechanism  provided  by  nature  for  the  digestion  of 
milk  in  infancy  is  useless  or  superfluous — that  the  casein  which  requires  the  action  of 
the  gastric  juice,  and  the  butter  which  needs  the  bile  and  pancreatic  secretions,  to  fit 
them  for  absorption  and  nutrition,  need  not  be  subjected  to  any  such  preparation,  but 
might  at  once  be  mixed  with  the  blood  and  converted  directly  into  tissue ! That  the 
water  and  salts,  and  possibly  even  the  sugar,  may,  when  so  introduced,  be  capable  of  sus- 
taining life  for  a short  time,  is  rendered  probable  by  the  results  of  saline  injections  into 
the  veins  in  epidemic  cholera ; but  in  regard  to  milk  as  a whole  experience  has  confirmed 
the  plainest  deductions  from  physiological  law,  and  proved  the  operation  to  be  dangerous 
as  well  as  irrational.  These  conclusions  have  been  confirmed  by  the  more  recent  experi- 
ments of  Moutard-Martin  and  Richet,  and  of  Demetre  Culcer  {Bull,  de  Therap .,  xcvii. 
136;  xcviii.  89),  who  found  that  death  was  caused  by  caseous  emboli  in  the  medulla 
oblongata ; and  by  Bechamp  and  Baltus,  who  conclude  that  the  operation  cannot  form  a 
substitute  for  the  transfusion  of  blood  {Archives  gen .,  Aout,  1879,  p.  228).  It  should 
perhaps  be  added  that  Dr.  Meldon  of  Dublin  claims  to  have  rescued  a phthisical  patient 
from  death  for  at  least  6 months  by  a single  intravenous  injection  of  3J  ounces  of  milk. 
He  performed  the  operation,  only  as  a last  resort,  in  ten  cases,  four  of  which  were  cured, 
and  were  all  of  them  cases  of  “ pernicious  anaemia  ” {Med.  News  and  Abstract , xxxviii. 
265).  Such  a result  was  unparalleled  when  it  was  announced  in  1880,  and  has  not  been 
matched  since  then.  In  1885  this  treatment  was  suggested  and  employed  in  a case  of 
opium  and  chloral  poisoning.  The  patient  at  first  seemed  to  revive,  but  afterward  died 
{Med.  Record , xxvii.  679). 

Milk  may  be  used  topically  as  an  emollient  and  demulcent.  It  is  a popular  remedy  for 
ophthalmia  in  infants,  and  especially  in  nursing  infants,  to  instil  the  mother’s  milk  in  the 
eyes,  and  human  as  well  as  cow’s  milk  is  applied  to  various  local  cutaneous  inflammations, 
such  as  erythema , intertrigo , otorrhoea , etc.  A poultice  made  by  stirring  bread-crumb  in 
hot  milk  is  in  common  use  to  promote  suppuration  in  abscesses.  If  its  application  is  long 
continued,  it  is  apt  to  render  the  skin  sodden  and  wrinkled.  It  should  be  prevented  from 
adhering  by  the  addition  of  a little  lard  or  glycerin. 

Administration. — According  to  Karell,  a chief  apostle  of  the  “ milk  cure,”  it  is 
essential  that  the  patient  abstain  from  all  other  food  but  milk,  and  that  he  should  take  it 
at  fixed  hours  and  in  determinate  quantities.  The  milk,  we  are  told,  must  be  skimmed, 
but  that  degree  of  exaction  is  not  required  by  others  who  employ  the  method.  It  should 
be  warmed,  not  hot,  in  winter,  cool,  but  not  iced,  in  summer,  and  should  be  swallowed 
by  small  mouthfuls  and  slowly.  If  the  stools  are  consistent,  the  quantity  of  milk  may 
be  gradually  increased  until  from  4 to  6 pints  a day  are  taken.  Almost  always  a primary 
effect  of  the  treatment  is  to  produce  constipation,  which  may  be  overcome  by  a little 
castor  oil  or  rhubarb  or  by  a roasted  apple  or  stewed  prunes.  Sometimes  much  more 
energetic  modes  of  treatment  are  called  for.  If,  on  the  other  hand,  the  milk  food  under- 
goes decomposition,  producing  flatulence  or  diarrhoea,  a certain  proportion  of  lime-water 
should  be  mixed  with  it,  or  the  milk  should  not  be  taken  unless  it  has  been  boiled.  When 
its  use  is  attended  with  a coated  tongue  and  dyspeptic  symptoms,  the  cause  is  generally  a 
febrile  condition,  originating  in  the  imperfectly-digested  milk  contained  in  the  alimentary 
canal.  If  the  patient  is  thirsty,  he  may  drink  pure  water  or  carbonated  water.  Toward 
the  third  week  of  this  process,  if  he  grows  .weary  of  it,  he  may  be  allowed  a little  stale 
bread  once  a day,  or  grits  or  other  analogous  preparations  may  be  added  to  the  milk.  To 
carry  out  this  discipline  requires  the  patient  to  be  endowed  with  a degree  of  courage 
approaching  heroism  ; but  in  certain  cases  it  brings  a due  reward : the  flesh  and  strength, 
which  had  before  been  declining  under  the  combined  influence  of  pain,  indigestion,  and 
scanty  nourishment,  begin  to  improve,  and  thus  persons  of  resolution  are  encouraged  to 
endure  their  martyrdom. 

It  may  be  stated  here  that  condensed  milk  is  in  many  cases  a valuable  substitute  for 
fresh  milk  in  all  cases  of  sickness  calling  for  the  use  of  milk,  and  especially  when  good 
milk  cannot  be  procured  from  the  cow.  This  is  notoriously  the  case  at  most  of  our  sea- 
side resorts,  and  it  occurs  also  where  the  drinking-water  is  unduly  mineralized. 

Serum  lactis,  Whey.  This  preparation,  which  contains  little  else  than  sugar  of  milk 


922 


LAC. 


and  a fractional  percentage  of  salts,  and  is  nutritious  chiefly  through  its  watery  element, 
has  been  used  from  time  immemorial  as  a drink  in  fevers.  It  is  agreeable  to  the  taste, 
or  may  be  rendered  so  by  lemon-juice  or  by  tamarinds,  as  was  the  custom  in  Sydenham’s 
day,  and  is  also  more  or  less  diuretic  and  laxative.  Taken  copiously  and  hot,  it  was  at 
that  time  the  favorite  diaphoretic  at  the  commencement  of  febrile  attacks  due  to  cold. 
When  whey  is  drunk  to  the  extent  of  a pint  or  two  every  day  and  for  several  weeks 
together,  it  tends  to  derange  the  stomach,  impair  the  appetite,  and  produce  diarrhoea,  and 
is  therefore  improper  in  all  chronic  diseases  in  which  the  digestive  organs  are  already 
enfeebled.  On  the  other  hand,  it  may,  as  far  as  it  goes,  prove  useful  in  chronic  blood 
disorders  like  gout,  rheumatism , and  gravel,  with  congestion  of  the  brain  or  of  the  portal 
circulation,  owing  to  its  depurative  and  somewhat  diuretic  qualities,  which  it  owes  to  the 
salts  which  it  contains.  But  in  Germany,  where  alone  the  “whey  cure”  is  systematically 
employed,  it  is  pursued  in  localities  in  which  pure  air  and  exercise  and  the  change  of  food, 
to  say  nothing  of  the  mineral  waters  usually  taken  at  the  same  time,  doubtless  have 
much  more  to  do  with  the  cure  of  disease  than  the  systematic  drinking  of  whey.  Wine- 
whey  is  made  by  adding  to  a pint  of  milk,  at  a boiling  heat,  from  2 to  8 ounces  of  sherry 
wine,  straining  off  the  whey,  and  sweetening  it.  It  is  a mildly  stimulant  and  nutritive 
drink,  much  used  in  the  typhoid  state  of  febrile  diseases. 

Buttermilk,  or  the  thin  sour  milk  separated  from  the  cream  by  churning,  contains 
casein,  but  very  little  butter.  Even  by  many  persons  in  health  it  is  considered  a most 
refreshing  drink,  and  there  is  no  form  of  fever  in  which  it  is  not  apt  to  be  relished,  prob- 
ably on  account  of  its  acidulous  taste.  It  is  one  of  the  very  best  remedies  that  can  be 
employed  in  acute  and  even  in  chronic  dysentery , promptly  allaying  the  tenesmus  and 
modifying  the  bloody  and  mucous  stools  of  the  acute  form,  and  lessening  the  frequency 
of  the  evacuations  in  the  chronic  disease.  Dr.  Young  of  Chester,  Pa.,  introduced  this 
treatment  in  1842,  allowing  his  patients  to  drink  even  a gallon  of  buttermilk  daily  if 
they  desired  it.  It  was  afterward  used  by  Dr.  Jackson  (of  Northumberland)  and  others 
with  emphatic  approval  ( Philad . Med.  Exam.,  v.  717).  Its  effects  in  typhoid  fever  are  strik- 
ing. It  renders  the  discharges  less  numerous  and  moderates  the  tympanites.  It  should 
be  given  in  doses  of  from  2 to  4 ounces  every  three  or  four  hours,  and  always  as  fresh  as 
possible.  In  many  of  those  cases  of  vomiting  for  which  milk  in  very  small  and  repeated 
doses  is  a familiar  remedy  buttermilk  is  even  more  acceptable  to  the  stomach ; and  it  is 
one  of  the  best  forms  in  which  milk  can  be  given  in  either  form  of  kidney  disease. 

Koumys  is  a drink  imitated  from  the  Tartars,  and  which  may  be  considered  a peculiar 
form  of  milk  punch,  since  it  contains  the  saline  and  protein  constituents  along  with  the 
sugar,  fat,  and  lactic  acid  of  the  milk,  together  with  carbonic  acid  and  alcohol,  the  latter 
constituents  varying  with  the  time  employed  in  the  fermentation.  It  is  therefore  a 
nourishing  and  stimulating  drink,  sometimes  even  an  intoxicating  one,  since  the  longer  it 
is  kept  the  more  alcohol  it  contains.  One  analysis  states  that  at  the  end  of  16  days  it 
yields  upward  of  20  parts  of  alcohol  in  1000.  The  effects  of  drinking  2 or  3 glasses  of 
koumys  are  identical  with  those  of  alcohol — a general  diffusive  glow,  a quickening  of  the 
pulse,  a pleasurable  excitement  of  mind  and  body.  Like  alcohol,  indulged  in  overmuch 
it  impairs  the  appetite  for  food,  tends  to  constipate  the  bowels,  renders  one  dull  and 
sleepy,  and  augments  the  urinary  solids.  Moderately  used,  it  promotes  digestion  and 
nutrition,  or  at  least  increases  the  weight  by  augmenting  the  fat,  precisely  like  milk 
punch.  Like  that  familiar  drink,  it  is  of  more  or  less  use  in  various  wasting  diseases, 
including  consumption  and  nervous  exhaustion , chronic  dyspeptic  disorders,  chronic  diar- 
rhoea, anaemia,  chlorosis,  malarial  cachexise,  etc.  In  the  second  edition  of  the  Dispensatory 
we  made  use  of  the  following  words : “ It  is  not  to  be  wondered  at  that  in  Germany  a 
counterfeit  koumys  is  prepared  with  milk,  lemon,  and  rum.  There  is  good  reason  to  fear 
that  the  general  fondness  for  sparkling  wines  and  other  effervescing  drinks  may  tend  to 
render  fashionable  a draught  which,  under  the  disguise  of  a medicine,  partakes  more  or 
less  of  their  inebriating  qualities,  and  may  become  the  prime  cause  of  a baleful  habit 
of  intoxication.  There  is  much  danger  also  lest  its  votaries  overlook  the  essential  con- 
ditions of  its  utility — active  exercise  in  the  open  air  and  the  various  hygienic  measures 
upon  which  the  utility  of  alcohol  and  other  hydrocarbons  in  all  chronic  wasting  diseases 
essentially  depends.”  More  recently,  as  we  learn  from  Stange  ( Von  Ziemssen's  Hand- 
huch  der  Allgemeinen  Therapie , 1883,  i.  403),  “favorable  results  from  the  koumys  treat- 
ment can  be  expected  only  in  the  steppes  of  Russia,  where  not  only  is  the  preparation 
properly  made,  but  a dry,  hot  climate  exists,  which  is  essential  to  the  success  of  the 
method.  The  proper  koumys  can  only  be  prepared  from  the  milk  of  a special  race  of 
mares  fed  on  the  peculiar  grasses  of  the  steppes  alone  and  subjected  to  no  labor.”  And 


LA  CCA. 


923 


Dr.  Carrick  of  St.  Petersburg  stated  to  the  Medico-Chirurgical  Society  of  Edinburgh  that 
11  the  best  effect  of  the  kouinys  cure  was  to  be  got  not  only  by  taking  the  remedy  itself, 
but  by  going  to  the  Russian  steppes  to  partake  of  it  there  ” ( Edinb . Med.  Jour.,  xxvii. 
167). 

Kephir,  a drink  made  by  the  action  of  a peculiar  ferment  (a  species  of  mushroom) 
upon  cow’s  milk  by  the  mountaineers  of  the  Caucasus,  was  brought  into  notice  in  1881. 
It  was  said  to  be  nutritious  as  well  as  remedial  in  anaemia,  scrofula,  phthisis , and  in  pul- 
monary and  gastro-intestinal  catarrh — i.  e.  in  dyspeptic  disorders  due  either  to  general 
debility,  or  to  various  diseases  of  the  alimentary  canal,  or  to  either  of  the  enumerated 
affections.  In  a word,  its  uses  are  identical  with  those  of  koumys.  It  contains  less  alcohol 
than  that  preparation,  and  is  therefore  less  stimulating.  By  some  it  is  represented  as  less 
agreeable,  and  is  indeed  apt  to  excite  aversion.  Others  state  it  to  be  more  palatable  than 
the  similar  beverage.  It  renders  the  urine  more  watery,  and  improves  the  digestion, 
assimilation  and  strength,  while  palliating  or  removing  the  special  disease  for  which  it  is 
given.  It  is  recommended  to  be  taken  in  the  morning,  fasting,  beginning  with  two  glasses 
and  gradually  increasing  to  ten  or  twelve. 

LACCA.— Lac. 

Resina  lacca. — Laque,  Gomme  lacque,  Fr.  ; Lack,  Gummilack,  G. ; Goma  laca,  Sp. 

A resinous  exudation  produced  by  the  puncture  of  Coccus  Lacca,  Kerr. 

Origin. — The  hemipterous  insects  thus  named  congregate  in  large  numbers  upon  the 
tender  branchlets  of  various  East  Indian  (mostly  laticiferous)  trees,  and  become  sur- 
rounded with  the  resinous  exudation,  which  gradually  hardens.  The  impregnated,  much- 
enlarged  female  insects,  imbedded  in  the  resin,  in  which  the  young  larvae  are  developed, 
contain  a red  coloring  matter.  These  finally  eat  a passage  through  the  incrustating 
material  and  escape.  The  branches  are  collected  with  the  incrustation,  which  is  con- 
sidered more  valuable  if  still  containing  the  red  coloring  matter.  Among  the  trees  yield- 
ing lac  are  the  following : Aleurites  laccifera,  Willdenow  (Croton,  Linne ) (Nat.  Ord. 
Euphorbiaceae)  ; Ficus  indica,  Roxburgh , F.  bengalensis,  Linne,  F.  religiosa,  Linne,  F. 
Tsjela,  Hamilton  (Nat.  Ord.  Urticaceae)  ; Schleichera  trijuga,  Willdenow  (Nat.  Ord.  Sapin- 
daceae) ; Butea  frondosa,  Roxburgh,  s.  Erythrina  monosperma,  Lamarck  (Nat.  Ord. 
Leguminosae).  According  to  Stillman  (1880),  lac  may  also  be  collected  from  Acacia 
Greggii,  Gray,  and  from  the  creasote-bush  or  stinkweed,  Larrea  mexicana,  Moricand,  s.  L. 
glutinosa,  Engelmann , which  plants  grow  from  Western  Texas  to  Mexico  and  Southern 
California. 

Description. — The  thin  branches,  almost  completely  covered  with  numerous  small 
resin-nodules,  constitute  the  stick-lac.  The  separate  nodules  or  tears  are  red-brown,  and 
contain  in  the  interior  a dark  blackish-red  powder ; after  the  escape  of  the  young  insects 
the  resin  if  brown.  The  same  resin,  after  having  been  detached  from  the  twigs,  consti- 
tutes the  seed-lac  or  grain-lac.  It  is  in  irregular  fragments  of  the  size  of  a pea  and 
smaller,  yellowish-brown  or  reddish,  somewhat  shiny,  and  nearly  tasteless.  After  boiling 
the  stick-lac  or  seed-lac  with  water,  fusing  the  resin,  and  congealing  it  upon  a smooth 
surface,  shellac  is  obtained  ; it  comes  in  thin,  glossy,  and  more  or  less  transparent  frag- 
ments. Sometimes  grape-lac  and  lump-lac  have  been  distinguished,  the  former  of  which 
consists  of  agglutinated  incrustations  separated  from  the  twigs  ; the  latter  is  identical  with 
shellac,  except  that  it  has  not  been  congealed  in  thin  layers.  When  chewed,  sticklac 
softens  and  colors  the  saliva  purplish-red,  a slight  bitterish  and  astringent  taste  being  per- 
ceived ; when  burned,  it  gives  off  a strong  and  agreeable  odor.  The  water  in  which  red 
stick-lac  has  been  boiled  on  being  treated  with  alum  yields  lac-dye. 

Shellac  is  soluble  in  potassa,  soda,  borax,  and  hydrochloric  and  acetic  acids,  and  when 
digested  with  ammonia  in  close  vessels  swells  to  a gelatinous  mass.  By  treating  the 
alkaline  solution  with  chlorine  or  sulphurous  acid  bleached  shellac  is  obtained. 

Constituents. — Lac  is  a complex  body,  containing,  according  to  Unverdorben.  five 
distinct  resins,  besides  wax,  fat,  and  poloring  and  extractive  matter,  The  resins  which 
may  be  separated  by  their  different  behavior  to  alcohol,  ether,  and  alkalies  are  present  in 
seed-lac,  according  to  Hatchett  and  John,  to  the  amount  of  66  or  68  per  cent.,  but  shellac 
contains  fully  90  per  cent,  of  resin.  The  wax  has  been  found  to  vary  in  amount  between 
about  2 and  6 per  cent. 

Uses. — Shellac  is  used  in  the  preparation  of  varnish  and  of  sealing-wax,  the  latter  by 
fusing  from  5 to  8 parts  of  it  with  1 part  of  turpentine  and  coloring  the  mixture  with  a 
suitable  pigment.  Varnish  suitable  for  blackboards  is  made  by  digesting  and  intimately 


924 


LACMUS. 


mixing  shellac,  mastic,  sandarac,  white  turpentine,  emery-flour,  and  lampblack,  of  each 
1 ounce,  and  alcohol  2 pints.  A solution,  made  without  heat,  of  1 part  of  powdered 
bleached  shellac  in  2 or  3 parts  of  a saturated  solution  of  borax  is  recommended  by 
Geissler  (1880)  as  an  excellent  starch-gloss , also  as  a varnish  for  maps  and  prints.  An 
ink  useful  for  laboratory  purposes  is  obtained  by  mixing  lampblack  with  a solution  of 
100  grains  of  shellac  and  20  grains  of  borax  in  4 ounces  of  water. 

Action  and  Uses.  — Having  in  a slight  degree  some  of  the  qualities  of  the  resins, 
lac  has  been  used  in  combination  with  astringents  as  an  application  to  indolent  ulcers , 
especially  of  a scrofulous  and  scorbutic  sort.  It  is  rarely  employed  in  medicine. 

Erythrina  corallodendron  is  reported  to  be  sedative,  anodyne,  and  soporific.  In 
Brazil  its  flowers  are  used  in  pulmonary  affections ; the  leaves  are  diuretic  and  laxative, 
and  externally  emollient ; the  bark  is  expectorant  and  narcotic.  It  is  employed  in 
coughs,  asthma,  neuralgia,  etc.,  and  its  alkaloid  is  stated  by  Bey  to  be  useful  in  mental 
disorders  ( Centralblatt  f Therapie , iii.  431).  Erythrina  Mulungu  is  used  in  Brazil  as  an 
anodyne  and  sedative.  In  large  doses  it  produces  sleep  without  causing  excitement. 
It  is  also  employed  in  cases  of  hypertrophy  (?  of  the  heart),  and  in  baths  for  rheuma- 
tism ( Am . Jour.  Phar.,  Dec.  1884,  p.  626.) 

LACMUS.— Litmus. 

Lacca  coerulea , Lacca  musica. — Tournesol , Laquebleu , Fr, ; Lackmus , Gr. 

A blue  pigment  obtained  from  Lecanora  tartarea,  Acharius , Boccella  tinctoria,  Ach .,  B. 
fusiformis,  Ach.,  and  from  other  lichens. 

Preparation. — The  lichens  are  powdered,  mixed  with  some  potash  and  urine  or 
other  ammoniacal  liquid,  and  exposed  to  the  air.  The  liquid  acquires  gradually  a red, 
purple,  and  finally  blue  color,  and  is  mixed  with  sufficient  chalk  to  be  formed  into  small 
rectangular  cakes.  It  is  manufactured  in  Holland. 

Description. — Litmus  is  in  earthy,  friable  cakes  of  a deep-blue  or  purplish-blue 
color  and  a slight  saline  and  somewhat  pungent  taste.  It  effervesces  with  acids,  and  is 
partly  soluble  in  water  with  a blue,  and  in  dilute  alcohol  with  a purplish-blue  color,  which 
is  changed  to  red  by  acids.  The  aqueous  solution  kept  in  a closed  vessel  becomes  mouldy 
and  colorless,  but  on  exposure  to  the  air  turns  blue. 

Constituents. — Besides  the  earthy  matter,  Kane  (1841)  separated  from  litmus  four 
coloring  matters — namely,  erythrolein , a purplish-red  fatty  matter,  soluble  in  ether,  fusi- 
ble at  38°  C.  (100°  F.),  and  yielding  with  ammonia  a purple-colored  solution  ; erythrolit- 
min , red,  crystalline,  insoluble  in  ether,  soluble  in  alcohol,  and  changed  to  blue  by  alka- 
lies ; azolitmin , brown-red,  amorphous,  insoluble  in  alcohol,  turned  blue  by  ammonia ; and 
spaniolitmin , present  in  minute  quantity  only,  light-red,  soluble  in  water. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Litmus  is  employed  as  a reagent  for  acids  and  alkalies. 
Litmus-paper  is  made  by  making  a strong  aqueous  solution  of  the  coloring  matter  ( tinc- 
ture of  litmus ),  and  dipping  white  unsized  paper  into  it.  To  make  red  litmus-paper , dilute 
hydrochloric  acid  is  carefully  added  to  the  blue  solution  until  the  color  has  just  changed 
to  red,  carefully  avoiding  excess  of  the  acid.  When  litmus  is  used  for  testing  by  gas- 
light the  change  of  color  is  best  observed  through  a green  glass.  By  treating  litmus 
with  alcohol,  afterward  with  water,  purifying  the  aqueous  extract  with  alcohol  acidulated 
with  acetic  acid,  and  removing  every  trace  of  the  acid  by  dissolving  in  water  and  evapo- 
rating repeatedly  with  alcohol,  nearly  pure  brown-red  azolitmin  is  obtained,  from  which 
test-paper  extremely  sensitive  to  both  acids  and  alkalies  may  be  prepared. 

Allied  Pigments. — Archil  or  orchil,  E.,  Orseille,  Fr.,  G.,  is  made  from  the  same  lichens  Avhich 
yield  litmus.  The  lichens  are  heated  for  a week  with  diluted  ammonia,  when  sulphuric  acid  and 
table-salt  are  added.  Archil  is  a pasty  mass  of  a deep-purple  color. 

Cudbear,  E .,  Orseille  de  terre,  Fr.,  Persio,  G .,  is  made  in  precisely  the  same  manner,  except 
that,  instead  of  adding  acid  and  salt,  the  mixture  is  dried  and  powdered. 

The  lichens  which  are  used  for  the  production  of  the  above  pigments  contain  a number  of 
chromogenes,  which  are  ternary  compounds,  and  in  the  presence  of  water  and  ammonia  are  con- 
verted into  various  nitrogenated  red  pigments.  The  most  important  of  these  chromogenes,  as 
far  as  they  have  been  investigated,  are — erythric  acid,  C20H22O20,  alphaorsellic  acid , C32II28014, 
betaorsellic  acid,  C34II32015,  and  evernic  acid , C34II32014.  On  being  boiled  for  a long  time  with 
water  or  baryta  they  yield  lecanoric  acid,  C16li1407,  afterward  orsellic  acid , C8II804,  and  finally 
orcin , C7II802,  which  crystallizes  in  large  colorless  needles,  has  a sweet  taste,  turns  red  in  con- 
tact with  air,  and  yields  with  ammonia  orcein , C7II7N03 ; this  is  brown,  and  dissolves  in  alkalies 
with  a beautiful  red  color.  Orcin  is  also  obtained  from  aloes  by  fusing  it  with  caustic  potassa. 

Uses. — The  only  use  of  litmus  in  medicine  is  to  determine  the  acidity  or  alkalinity 


LA  CTUCA. — LA  CTUCARIUM. 


925 


of  the  animal  fluids.  Litmus-paper  is  a necessary  adjunct  of  all  apparatus  for  examining 
the  urine. 

LACTUCA,  Br. — -Lettuce. 

Hebra  lactucae , s. ; lactucse  virosse. — Laitue  vireuse , Fr.  Cod. ; Giftlattich , G. ; Lechuga . Sp. 

The  flowering  herb  of  Lactuca  virosa,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 
160,  161. 

Nat.  Ord. — Compositae,  Liguliflorae. 

Description. — This  biennial  herb,  which  grows  to  the  height  of  .9-1.8  M.  (3  to  6 
feet),  has  a cylindrical,  somewhat  prickly,  pale-green,  and  often  purplish-spotted  stem. 
The  large  radical  leaves  are  petiolate,  obovate-oblong,  obtuse,  irregularly  spinously 
toothed,  wavy  or  nearly  entire  at  the  margin,  pale-green  beneath,  and  prickly  on  the 
midrib.  The  stem-leaves  are  smaller,  alternate,  horizontal,  sessile,  with  a sagittate 
amplexicaul  base  and  an  acute  spinous  apex,  otherwise  resembling  the  radical  leaves, 
the  floral  ones  reduced  to  small  pointed  bracts.  The  flower-heads  form  a loose  terminal 
panicle  and  are  on  short  axillary  peduncles ; the  involucre  is  oblong  or  conical,  and  com- 
posed of  imbricated  lanceolate  bracts  in  about  three  rows ; the  florets  are  neutral,  pale- 
yellow,  ligulate ; the  akenes  are  oval,  flattened,  black,  and  prolonged  into  a long  whitish 
beak,  bearing  at  its  apex  a pappus  consisting  of  numerous  soft  white  capillary  bristles. 
The  plant  has  a disagreeable  rather  narcotic  odor  and  a bitter  and  saline  taste. 

It  is  indigenous  to  Western  and  Southern  Europe,  is  less  frequent  in  Central  Europe, 
and  has  been  naturalized  in  some  parts  of  New  England.  It  is  closely  allied  to  L.  Sca- 
riola,  Linne , which  is  indigenous  to  Europe,  but  is  found  more  frequently  in  the  central 
part,  and  is  distinguished  from  the  preceding  mainly  by  its  spinescent,  deeply-cut,  toothed 
or  pinnatifid  vertical  leaves,  but  possesses  the  same  disagreeable  odor  and  taste,  though 
in  a rather  milder  degree. 

Constituents. — The  older  analyses  by  PfafF,  Dublanc,  and  others  have  demonstrated 
the  presence  of  principles  common  in  herbs ; among  the  inorganic  constituents  potassium 
nitrate  was  found  by  PfafF  and  Bley.  More  recently,  the  investigations  have  been  con- 
fined to  lactucarium,  which  is  partly  obtained  from  this  plant. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  ancients  ascribed  to  strong-scented  lettuce  soporific  and 
anaphrodisiac  properties,  and  its  juice  was  even  used  by  them  for  adulterating  opium. 
It  was  held  to  be  peculiarly  adapted  to  allay  wakefulness  produced  by  over-stimulation 
of  the  mind.  Whatever  may  have  been  the  virtues  of  lettuce  in  ancient  Greece,  they 
are  certainly  very  faintly  represented  by  the  plant  which  grows  in  this  country  and  in 
Western  Europe.  They  are  contained  in  their  most  concentrated  and  available  form 
in  lactucarium. 

LACTUCARIUM,  U.  S.,  Fr.  Cod. — Lactucarium. 

Lactucarium , Fr.,  G.  ; Gi/tlattichsa/t,  G. ; Lactucario , Sp. 

The  concrete  milk-juice  of  Lactuca  virosa,  Linne , obtained  by  incision  and  spontaneous 
evaporation. 

Origin  and  Collection. — Lactuca  virosa  and  L.  Scariola,  Linne , have  been 
described  above.  L.  sativa,  Linne , is  the  common  garden  lettuce.  L.  altissima,  Bieber - 
stein , a tall  Caucasian  herb,  is  cultivated  in  Auvergne  in  France  for  lactucarium  ; Plan- 
chon  regards  it  as  a variety  of  L.  Scariola,  Linne.  We  prepared  (1867)  very  efficient 
lactucarium  from  several  varieties  of  L.  canadensis,  Linne , of  this  country,  but  found 
the  milky  juice,  which  yielded  from  22  to  32  per  cent,  of  air-dry  residue,  to  congeal  rap- 
idly and  to  dry  into  irregular  tears.  Commerce  is  supplied  with  lactucarium  almost 
exclusively  from  Germany  and  Great  Britain  from  plants  cultivated  for  the  purpose ; a 
small  quantity  is  also  produced  in  Austria.  Thomas  Fairgrieve,  who  described  the  prep- 
aration in  1873,  states  that  he  cultivates  L.  virosa,  var.  montana.  The  collection  of  the 
milky  juice  is  commenced  about  the  middle  of  July  or  beginning  of  August,  when  the 
flowers  are  just  appearing,  and  is  continued  for  6 or  8 weeks  (until  the  latter  part  of 
September).  The  collectors  proceed  over  the  field,  cutting  the  head  of  each  stalk  and 
scraping  the  juice  into  their  vessels,  one  person  who  cuts  being  followed  by  two  who  col- 
lect the  juice.  This  process  is  repeated  six  or  seven  times  a day,  a new  cut  being  made 
each  time  a little  lower  down  the  stalk.  In  the  evening,  when  the  juice  has  thickened 
into  a viscous  mass,  it  is  turned  out  of  the  vessels,  suitably  divided,  and  dried  by  the  aid 
of  heat,  about  5 days  being  required  for  it. 


926 


LA  CTUCABIUM. 


In  Germany,  near  the  town  of  Zell  on  the  Mosel,  the  collection  lasts  from  May  to  Sep- 
tember; the  milky  juice  is  taken  up  by  the  finger  and  transferred  to  hemispherical  earthen 
cups,  in  which  it  quickly  hardens,  so  that  it  can  be  turned  out.  It  is  then  dried  in  the 
sunshine  until  it  can  be  cut  into  four  pieces,  when  the  drying  is  completed  by  exposure 
to  the  air  for  some  weeks  on  frames  ( Pharmacogr aphid ). 

The  lactucarium  prepared  in  France  by  Aubergier  is  rarely  if  ever  met  with  in  this 
country.  Fairgrieve  obtained  1 pound  of  lactucarium  from  4 pounds  of  juice,  and  esti- 
mates the  average  yield  of  each  plant  to  be  between  40  and  50  grains.  By  frequently 
puncturing  the  stems,  Schiitz  (1823)  obtained  from  L.  sativa,  scariola,  and  virosa,  respec- 
tively, 17,  25,  and  56  grains  of  lactucarium.  The  extract  of  lettuce-leaves  was  medici- 
nally employed  by  Dr.  H.  J.  Collin  of  Vienna  (1780),  but  lactucarium  was  first  introduced 
into  medicine  by  Dr.  J.  R.  Coxe  of  Philadelphia  (1799). 

Description. — German  lactucarium  generally  comes  in  sections  of  plano-convex  cir- 
cular cakes  which  are  of  a gray-brown  color  externally,  usually  white  or  yellowish,  and 
of  a waxy  lustre  internally.  English  or  Scotch  lactucarium  is  met  with  in  irregular-sized 
angular  pieces  of  a brown  color  and  earthy  appearance.  Both  kinds  have  a strongly  bit- 
ter taste  and  a strong  narcotic  odor,  suggesting  that  of  opium  ; they  are  powdered  with 
difficulty,  and  on  trituration  with  water  are  not  emulsionized,  except  after  the  addition  of 
gum-arabic.  When  lactucarium  is  prescribed  in  mixtures,  A.  Vogeler  (1881)  recommends 
triturating  it  with  a little  spirit  of  nitrous  ether  before  adding  the  water,  when  it  is  readily 
divided  in  the  liquid. 

What  is  usually  sold  here  as  French  lactucarium  is  Extractum  Lactuc^e  (see  p.  683). 

Tests. — Lactucarium  on  being  treated  with  boiling  water  should  become  soft  without 
melting,  and  yield  a bitter  filtrate,  which  while  hot  should  be  clear,  and  on  cooling  become 
turbid  ; this  liquid  should  not  be  colored  blue  by  iodine  (absence  of  starch),  but  should 
become  clear  on  the  addition  of  ammonia  or  of  alcohol ; the  ammoniacal  liquid  should 
yield  a copious  precipitate  with  solution  of  calcium  sulphate  (presence  of  oxalic  acid), 
and  the  alcoholic  solution  should  not  be  affected  by  ferric  chloride  (absence  of  tannin, 
etc.) — P.  G. 

Constituents. — Lactucarium  has  been  analyzed  by  Walz  (1840),  Aubergier  (1842), 
Wackenroder  (1844),  Lenoir  (1847),  Ludwig  (1847),  Kromayer  (1861),  and  0.  Schmidt 
(1875, 1879).  Nearly  one-half  the  weight  of  lactucarium  is  soluble  in  alcohol,  but  dilute 
alcohol  dissolves  only  between  36  and  44  per  cent.  50  to  60  per  cent,  of  lactucarium 
consists  of  lactucerin  or  lactucon , C16H260,  which  was  obtained  crystallized  by  Lenoir  (1847) 
by  exhausting  lactucarium  with  boiling  alcohol  and  recrystallizing  the  product ; it  forms 
thin  colorless  needles,  which  are  inodorous  and  tasteless,  insoluble  in  water,  soluble  in  alco- 
hol, and  more  freely  so  in  ether,  chloroform,  benzin,  and  fixed  and  volatile  oils ; it  appears 
to  vary  somewhat  in  different  lactucariums.  The  bitter  taste  of  lactucarium  is  due  to 
three  principles,  two  of  which  are  usually  amorphous  and  freely  soluble  in  water,  while  the 
crystallizable  lactucin , CnH1203.H20,  requires  over  60  parts  of  cold  water  for  solution,  but 
dissolves  more  readily  in  hot  water  and  in  alcohol.  Kromayer  (1861)  obtained  only  0.3 
per  cent.,  which  does  not  perhaps  represent  the  whole  amount  present,  but  the  much 
larger  yields  (18  to  28  per  cent.)  previously  observed  by  Buchner  and  Ludwig  must  be 
due  to  impurities.  Lactucin  forms  pearly  scales  or  rhombic  plates  when  crystallized  from 
very  dilute  alcohol,  has  a neutral  reaction,  turns  red  and  brown  with  alkalies,  and  is 
deprived  of  bitter  taste ; it  is  not  a glucoside,  but  reduces  from  alkaline  cupric  solutions 
cuprous  oxide.  Lactucic  acid  and  lactucopicrin  have  been  found  in  the  mother-liquor  of 
lactucin  ; the  former  is  light-yellow,  amorphous,  crystallizes  on  long  standing,  is  colored 
red  by  alkalies,  reduces  alkaline  copper  solutions,  is  precipitated  by  lead  subacetate,  and 
is  insoluble  in  carbon  disulphide,  petroleum  benzin,  ether,  and  chloroform.  Lactucopicrin 
is  brown,  amorphous,  insoluble  in  ether,  soluble  in  alcohol,  not  precipitated  by  lead  sub- 
acetate, and  appears  to  be  produced  by  oxidation  of  lactucin. 

The  other  constituents  of  lactucarium  which  have  been  observed  by  different  investi- 
gators are — a trace  of  volatile  oil,  asparagin,  mannit,  sugar,  albumen,  gum,  caoutchouc, 
resin,  oxalic,  citric,  and  malic  acids,  and  between  8 and  10  per  cent,  of  ash.  Fliickiger 
obtained  from  German  lactucarium,  by  means  of  carbon  disulphide,  an  amorphous  mass 
which  is  fusible  below  100°  C.  and  separates  from  alcohol  as  a syrupy  liquid. 

Ililand  Flowers  (1879)  noticed  that  the  milk-juice  of  L.  canadensis  does  not  possess  a 
bitter  taste  until  the  plant  is  in  bloom,  when  the  lactucarium  collected  from  it  has  the 
same  constituents  as  European  lactucarium. 

Action  and  Uses. — Tile  utility  of  retaining  lactucarium  as  an  officinal  medicine 
is  very  doubtful.  It  may  possibly  be  desirable  as  a hypnotic  for  very  impressionable 


LA  MELLJE. — LA  MINA  RIA. 


927 


persons,  with  whom  faith  in  a remedy  supplies  its  want  of  intrinsic  efficiency.  If  it 
have  any  virtues  of  the  sort  ascribed  to  it,  they  would  peculiarly  adapt  it  to  cases  of 
infantile  disease.  The  dose  of  lactucarium  is  indefinite.  Gm.  0.10  (gr.  ij)  may  be  given 
to  an  infant. 

LAMELLuE,  Br. — Discs,  Gelatin-discs. 

Laminae  gelatinosse. — Bisques  de  gelatine , Fr. ; Gelatinplatten , G. 

The  preparation  of  gelatin-discs  or  medicated  gelatin  has  been  briefly  described  on  page 
725.  They  are  usually  made  about  1 Mm.  inch)  thick,  and  a small  quantity  of 
glycerin  is  added  to  the  mixture  to  prevent  the  discs  from  becoming  hard  and  brittle  on 
keeping.  The  British  Pharmacopoeia  has  admitted  three  kinds  of  medicated  gelatin- 
discs,  but  does  not  give  formulas  for  their  preparation.  In  each  case  the  discs  are  to  be 
of  gelatin,  with  some  glycerin,  and  each  is  to  weigh  about  1.3  Mgm.  (-gL-  grain). 

Lamellae  atropine,  Br.  Discs  of  atropine,  E.;  Disques  d’atropine,  Fr.;  Atropin- 
plattchen,  G. — Each  disc  is  to  contain  0.00013  Gm.  = 0.13  Mgm.  (g-l-^  grain)  of  atropine 
sulphate. 

Lamella:  cocaina:,  Br.  Discs  of  cocaine,  E. ; Disques  de  cocaine,  Fr. ; Cocain- 
plattchen,  G. — Each  disc  is  to  contain  0.00032  Gm.  = 0.32  Mgm.  (^-J-^-  grain)  of  cocaine 
hydrochlorate. 

Lamella:  physostigmina:,  Br.  Discs  of  physostigmine,  E.  ; Disques  d’eserine,  Fr.  ; 
Physostigmin-plattchen,  G.  Each  disc  is  to  contain  0.000064  Gm.  = 0.064  Mgm. 
grain)  of  physostigmine. 

LAMINARIA.— Laminaria. 

Laminaire  digitee , Fr. ; Laminaria , Riementang , G. 

Laminaria  Cloustoni,  Edmonston , s.  L.  digitata,  Lamouroux. 

Nat.  Ord. — Algae,  Fucoidese. 

Origin. — The  Linnaean  name,  Fucus  digitatus , has,  according  to  Ferd.  Cohn  (1864), 
been  applied  to  two  different  algae  of  the  North  Atlantic  Ocean.  Laminaria  flexicaulis, 
Le  Jolts  (s.  L.  stenophylla,  Harvey ),  has  a glossy,  dark-brown,  flexible  stem,  which  on 
drying  becomes  thin  like  a fibre.  Laminaria  Cloustoni,  however,  has  an  erect,  rigid, 
light-brown  stem,  0.9  to  1.8  M.  (3-6  feet)  long,  at  the  base  5 Cm.  (2  inches)  thick, 
divided  below  into  spreading  root-like  branches,  and  at  the  apex  prolonged  into  a flat  and 
digitately  divided,  leathery,  and  olive-green  frond.  The  plant  grows  upon  rocks  at  a 
depth  of  10  to  15  fathoms  in  the  Atlantic  and  Pacific  oceans  and  northward  in  the 
Arctic  Sea.  The  lower  cylindrical  portion  only  is  employed. 

Description. — Laminaria  is  met  with  in  commerce  in  irregular  cylindrical  pieces, 
which  are  12  Mm.  (J  inch)  or  less  thick,  deeply  wrinkled,  of  a brown  or  gray-brown 
color  externally,  lighter  and  darker  brown  internally,  of  a horn-like  texture,  and  break- 
ing with  a smooth  and  horny  fracture.  Immersed  in  water,  it  becomes  softer  and  swells 
to  from  four  to  six  times  its  usual  diameter.  Two  layers  are  readily  distinguished,  the 
central  one  being  whitish  and  composed  of  large  cells,  while  the  outer  one  is  formed  of 
smaller  cells,  has  a brownish  color,  and  contains  a zone  of  axially  somewhat  elongated 
large  mucilage-cells.  For  medical  use  it  is  turned  into  cylindrical  or  conical  pieces. 

Constituents. — Laminaria  contains  the  usual  constituents  of  marine  Algae.  (See 
Chondrus.)  Stenhouse  isolated  from  it  mannit. 

Allied  Plants. — Laminaria  saccharina,  Lamouroux , has  a flattish  stem  and  linear  or  oblong 
entire  fronds.  After  having  been  washed  with  water  it  acquires  a sweet  taste,  and,  like  Lam. 
esculenta,  Lamouroux , is  eaten.  The  ash  of  all  these  species  may  be  used  for  obtaining  iodine. 

For  some  years  past  the  soft  root  of  one  or  two  species  of  tupelo,  Nyssa  (Nat.  Ord.  Cornacese), 
has  been  used  in  Europe  for  tents.  The  species  adapted  for  this  purpose  are  Nyssa  grandiden- 
tata,  Michaux  Jilius,  and  N.  capitata,  Walter  (N.  candicans,  Michaux ) ; both  grow  in  the  South- 
ern United  States  not  far  from  the  sea-coast.  The  first  species  is  known  as  cotton-gum , large 
tupelo,  and,  in  Louisiana,  olivier  a larges  feuilles ; the  second  species  is  called  tupelo-gum , sour- 
gum,  and  Ogeechee  lime.  The  wood  is  light,  white,  of  a spongy  texture,  and  when  dry  swells  to 
about  double  its  usual  thickness  from  the  absorption  of  water. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  porosity  of  its  stalks  and  the  quality  they  possess, 
when  dried,  of  absorbing  water,  and  thereby  increasing  in  bulk  even  as  much  as 
fourfold,  have  rendered  laminaria  a very  convenient  substitute  for  compressed  sponge. 
The  following  summary  of  the  qualities  of  sea-weed  tents,  applied  particularly  to  the 
uterus,  was  made  by  Dr.  J.  Braxton  Hicks : 1,  they  may  be  made  of  any  size,  but  much 


928 


LAPPA. 


smaller  than  sponge  tents ; 2,  they  have  more  distending  power ; 3,  they  do  not  retain 
the  secretions  so  as  to  produce  much  offensiveness ; 4,  by  their  greater  rigidity  they  can 
be  more  readily  applied,  especially  in  a tortuous  canal.  On  the  other  hand,  their  rigidity 
makes  them  less  suitable  in  cases  where  the  uterus  readily  bleeds  or  is  very  tender,  and 
in  cases  where  the  os  is  somewhat  dilated  by  a polypus  or  growth  distending  it.  These 
tents  have  sometimes  perforated  the  uterine  walls.  For  dilatation  of  the  os  uteri  in  its 
natural  state,  and  for  the  induction  of  premature  labor,  these  tents  are  less  suitable  than 
sponge  tents  or  the  India-rubber  bag.  In  cleanliness,  certainty  of  action,  ease  of  intro- 
duction, and  small  size  they  are  not  equalled  by  those  made  of  any  other  material.  By 
fastening  several  together  the  physician  is  enabled  to  effect  any  degree  of  dilatation  he 
may  desire.  They  are,  however,  no  less  likely  than  other  uterine  tents  to  produce 
metritis.  According  to  Landau,  the  tupelo  tents  recommended  by  Tiemann  are  superior 
to  any  other  for  the  same  reasons  above  assigned  in  favor  of  laminaria  tents  ( Times  and 
Gaz.,  Mar.  1881,  p.  327).  Bougies  of  laminaria  have  been  employed  to  dilate  strictures 
of  the  urethra.  For  this  purpose  they  were  covered  with  several  coats  of  varnish  or  with 
glycerin  before  introduction,  and  allowed  to  remain  in  place  for  several  hours.  Similar 
instruments  have  been  made  use  of  for  dilating  the  Eustachian  tube. 


LAPPA,  U.  Burdock. 

Radix  hardanse , P.  A. — Bardane , Glouteron , Fr. ; Klettenwurzel , Gr. ; Bardana , It.,  Sp. 


Fig.  170 


The  root  of  Arctium  Lappa,  Linne  ; Lappa  officinalis,  Allioni , s.  L.  vulgaris,  Neilreich. 

Nat.  Ord. — Composite,  Cynaroideae. 

Origin. — Several  forms  of  these  plants  are  often  regarded  as  distinct,  and  described 
as  Arctium,  Schkuhr,  s.  Lappa  major,  Gsertner,  L.  tomentosa,  Lamarck , and  L.  minor, 
De  Candolle.  They  are  found  in  waste  places  and  along 
roadsides  in  Northern  Asia  and  throughout  Europe,  and 
have  been  naturalized  in  North  America,  where  the 
variety  tomentosuin  is  rather  scarce.  They  are  coarse- 
looking  biennial  weeds,  with  branching  stems  1 to  1.8  M. 

(3-6  feet)  high,  and  cordate-oblong,  nearly  entire  or 
toothed,  rough,  petiolate  leaves.  The  globose  involucre 
has  the  numerous  scales  appressed  at  the  base  and  con- 
tracted to  a recurved  sharp  point  above.  The  numerous 
tubular  florets  are  purplish,  or,  rarely,  whitish  ; the 
akenes  are  flattened  and  have  a pappus  of  numerous 
short  bristles.  The  variety  major  has  rather  large  heads 
with  a smoothish  involucre ; var.  tomentosum  has  the 
involucre  and  peduncles  woolly ; var.  minor  has  the 
heads  much  smaller,  the  involucre  at  first  cottony,  finally 
smooth,  and  the  leaves  usually  unequally  rounded  or 
tapering  at  base.  They  bloom  from  July  to  September. 


Burdock-root:  transverse  section. 


The  root  should  be  collected 


in  the  autumn  of  the  first  year’s  growth  or  early  in  the  succeeding  spring ; 6 or  7 parts 


of  the  fresh  yield  1 part  of  air-dry  root. 

Description. — The  root  is  nearly  simple,  25  to  50  Cm.  (10-20  inches)  long,  about 
25  Mm.  (1  inch)  thick,  fusiform,  gradually  tapering,  fleshy,  and  when  dry  longitudinally 
wrinkled,  rounded  at  the  top,  and  often  with  a tuft  of  white,  soft-hairy  leaf-stalks.  It 
has  a grayish-brown  color  externally,  pale-brownish  internally,  the  cross-section  display- 
ing a thickish  bark,  which  in  the  inner  layer  is  radially  striate  and  by  a dark  cambium- 
line separated  from  the  medit.ullium  ; this  is  about  four  times  thicker,  has  finely  porous 
ligneous  rays,  and  the  medullary  rays  of  about  the  same  width.  The  latter,  as  well  as 
the  parenchyma  of  the  bark,  are  frequently  partly  destroyed,  leaving  merely  the  white 
dead  tissue,  which  is  spongy  and  full  of  holes.  Burdock  has  a rather  disagreeable  but 
weak  odor,  and  a mucilaginous  afterward  sweetish  and  bitterish  taste. 

Constituents. — Burdock-root  is  free  from  starch,  but  contains  in  its  stead  imdvi. 
(See  Inula.)  Mucilage,  sugar,  albuminoids,  and  little  resin,  tannin,  fat,  and  wax,  have 
been  observed  in  it.  Weckler  ( Am . Jour.  Phar .,  1887,  p.  393)  found  also  3.7  per  cent, 
of  ash  and  indications  of  a glucoside. 


Allied  Drugs. — Fructus  lappa:,  s.  Semen  bardana:.  Burdock-fruit  is  about  6 Mm.  (*  inch) 
long,  obovate-oblong,  somewhat  curved,  angular,  and  flattened,  roughish  wrinkled,  brown-gray 
mottled  with  black,  mostly  deprived  of  the  setaceous  pappus,  the  short  base  of  the  style  project- 
ing from  the  centre  of  the  apical  scar ; inodorous ; taste  oily  and  bitter.  The  fruit  contains, 


LAPPA. 


929 


according  to  Trimble  and  Macfarland  {Am.  Jour.  Phar.,  1885,  p.  127  ; 1888,  p.  79),  15.4  per 
cent,  of  drying  oil,  5.5  of  resins,  and  a small  quantity  of  the  crystalline  glucoside  lappin , which 
is  very  bitter,  and  soluble  in  water,  alcohol,  and  chloroform.  Tinctura  lappce  fructus  has  been 
proposed  to  be  made  from  4 troyounces  of  the  ground  fruit  by  percolating  with  a mixture  of 
alcohol  3 parts  and  water  1 part  until  a pint  of  percolate  is  obtained. 

Fructus  sily'bi,  s.  Semen  cardui  marine. — Mary  thistle,  E. ; Chardon  Marie,  Fr. ; Stechkor- 
ner,  Frauendistel,  G. — from  Silybum  marianum,  Gcertner , s.  Carduus  marianus,  Lining,  a synge- 
nesious  biennial  of  Southern  Europe.  The  akenes  are  4 or  5 Mm.  (£  or  it  inch)  long,  not  curved, 
obovate,  flattened,  smooth,  glossy,  light-brown  with  black  or  blackish  striae,  oblique  at  the  apex, 
and  crowned  by  a yellowish  margin,  from  the  centre  of  which  the  base  of  the  style  projects ; 
inodorous ; taste  mucilaginous,  oily,  and  somewhat  bitter. 

Xanthium  strumarium,  Linne , tribe  Helianthoideae. — Cocklebur,  E. ; Lampourde,  Petit  glou- 
teron,  Fr. ; Spitzklette,  Knopfklette,  G. — This  coarse-looking  weed  is  common  in  waste  places 
throughout  North  America,  Europe,  and  Northern  Asia.  The  leaves  are  alternate,  long-peti- 
olate,  triangular  heart-shaped,  and  rough-hairy.  The  sterile  flowers  are  in  short  terminal  spikes. 
The  fertile  flowers  are  numerous,  in  axillary  clusters,  and  produce  flat,  oblong  akenes,  without 
pappus  and  enclosed  in  the  enlarged  involucre,  which  is  oval  or  oblong  in  shape,  nearly  25  Mm. 
(1  inch)  long,  and  densely  beset  with  hooked  prickles.  The  indigenous  species  and  variety,  X. 
canadense.  Miller , and  variety  echinatum,  Gray , have  also  the  two  stout  beaks  hooked.  Zander 
(1881)  obtained  from  100  parts  of  the  fruit  5.2  ash,  38.6  fat,  36.6  albuminoids,  1.3  xanthostru- 
marin  and  organic  acids,  besides  sugar,  resin,  etc.  Xanthostrumarin  seems  to  be  a glucoside,  is 
yellow,  amorphous,  soluble  in  water,  alcohol,  ether,  benzol,  and  chloroform,  and  yields  precip- 
itates with  group  reagents  for  alkaloids  and  with  ferric  chloride,  lead  acetate,  and  salts  of  other 
metals,  but  not  with  tannin  or  gelatin.  M.  V.  Cheatham  (1884)  obtained  only  14.5  per  cent,  of 
fixed  oil,  and  a principle  which  was  precipitated  by  tannin. 

Xanthium  spinosUxM,  Linne , Spiny  clotbur.  It  is  indigenous  to  Southern  Europe,  but  has 
become  somewhat  naturalized  in  waste  places  of  the  United  States  and  most  civilized  countries. 
It  has  shortly  petiolate,  lanceolate,  or  ovate-lanceolate  leaves,  which  are  either  cut-toothed  or  the 
upper  ones  entire,  and  have  at  the  base  sharp,  three-forked,  yellowish,  stipulate  spines,  nearly 
25  Mm.  (1  inch)  long.  The  fertile  axillary  burs  are  crowned  with  one  inconspicuous  beak.  The 
alkaloid,  the  presence  of  which  was  announced  by  Guichard  (1877),  is  regarded  by  Yvon  as  a 
little  resin,  soluble  both  in  alcohol  and  ether. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparation. — Extractum  baRdan^ ; Extrait  de  bardane, 
Fr.  Cod. ; Extract  of  burdock,  E .,  is  prepared  by  exhausting  the  root  with  cold  distilled 
water. 

Action  and  Uses. — Burdock  has  had  the  reputation  in  Europe  and  in  this 
country  of  being  a depurative  through  its  diaphoretic  and  diuretic  virtues,  and  by 
a gradual  and  insensible  modification  of  nutrition.  It  has  been  in  vogue  for  the  cure  of 
rheumatism , gout , cbronic  cutaneous  diseases , and  chronic  pulmonary  catarrhs  ; it  has  been 
reputed  to  be  diuretic  (especially  its  seeds),  and  to  promote  the  discharge  of  urinary 
deposits ; to  be  alterative  also,  and  beneficial  in  constitutional  syphilis  and  scrofula.  These 
virtues,  if  they  are  real,  would  indicate  that  the  medicine  operates  by  promoting  all  the 
secretions,  much  as  sarsaparilla  is  supposed  to  do.  But,  like  that  medicine,  burdock  is 
seldom  given  unless  associated  with  more  active  agents.  Externally,  the  expressed  juice 
of  the  leaves,  the  fresh  leaves  bruised,  and  liniments  made  by  boiling  the  leaves  or  the 
roots  with  oil  have  been  much  used  as  popular  remedies  for  burns , wounds,  idcers,  and 
eruptions.  Although  an  agent  of  secondary  value,  it  is  not  quite  just,  as  has  been  done, 
to  call  it  “ one  of  the  illusions  of  the  materia  medica.”  Burdock  is  generally  given  in  a 
decoction  prepared  by  boiling  Gm.  64  (^ij)  of  the  recent  bruised  root  in  Gm.  500  (Oij) 
to  a reduction  of  one-third.  At  least  Gm.  500  (1  pint)  of  this  decoction  should  be 
taken  daily.  Possibly  the  concentrated  syrup  or  fluid  extract,  equally  diluted,  would 
answer  quite  as  well.  According  to  Dr.  Squibb,  a tincture  made  with  1 pound  of  the 
ground  seed  to  a gallon  of  whiskey,  and  allowed  to  stand  for  two  weeks  before  decanting, 
may  be  taken  in  doses  of  two  or  three  teaspoonfuls  immediately  after  meals.  He  cites  a 
case  in  which  a similar  preparation  cured  an  inveterate  psoriasis  ( Ephemeris , Sept.,  1882, 
p.  115).  The  fluid  extract  is  reported  to  have  cured  this  disease,  and  also  epilepsy 
{Therap.  Gaz.,  viii.  108,  552).  Mary  thistle  was  formerly  used  as  an  expectorant  and 
tonic,  but  has  become  obsolete  in  medicine. 

Xanthium  spinosum.  In  some  parts  of  Germany  the  powder  or  infusion  of  this 
plant  has  a popular  reputation  for  the  cure  of  intermittent  fever.  In  Russia  it  is  held 
to  be  a prophylactic  against  hydrophobia.  Its  efficacy  is  attested  by  Dr.  Grzymala  of 
Podolia,  who  states  that  when  several  animals  or  men  had  been  bitten  by  a rabid  dog, 
those  only  escaped  who  were  treated  with  this  medicine,  and  that  such  results  are  usual, 
not  exceptional.  These  statements,  made  in  1876,  have  not  been  confirmed.  The  physio- 
logical effects  of  the  plant  are  said  to  resemble  those  of  jaborandi,  in  being  sudorific,  siala- 
gogue,  and  slightly  diuretic.  The  dose  of  the  dried  powder  of  the  leaves,  repeated  three 
times  a day  and  continued  for  three  weeks,  is  about  Gm.  0.66  (gr.  x). 

59 


930 


LARIGIS  CORTEX.— LA  UROCERASI  FOLIA. 


LARICIS  CORTEX,  Br. — Larch-Bark. 

Ecorce  de  meleze , Fr.  ; Larchenrinde , G. ; Corteza  de  alerce , Sp. 

The  bark,  deprived  of  its  outer  rough  portion,  of  Larix  europaea,  De  Candolle  (Abies 
Larix,  Lamarck , Pinus  Larix,  Linne).  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 260. 

Nat.  Ord. — Coniferae,  Abietineae. 

Origin. — The  European  larch  is  a forest  tree  of  Southern  and  Central  Europe,  where 
it  grows  chiefly  in  mountainous  localities  up  to  an  altitude  of  about  1500  M.  (5000  feet). 
It  is  often  cultivated  in  Europe,  and  has  been  introduced  into  North  America  as  an  orna- 
mental tree.  It  attains  a height  of  24  to  30  M.  (80-100  feet),  has  the  narrow  linear 
deciduous  leaves  in  fascicles  of  twenty  to  forty,  and  oblong  ovoid  erect  cones  which  are 
about  25  Mm.  (1  inch)  long.  The  bark  is  collected  in  spring  from  the  trunk  and  the 
branches.  The  tree  yields  Venice  turpentine  and  Brian§on  manna. 

Description. — After  the  removal  of  the  reddish-brown,  fissured,  corky  layer,  the  bark 
forms  flattish  or  quilled  pieces,  having  the  outer  surface  dark  red  or  rosy,  and  the  inner 
surface  smooth,  yellowish  white  or  pinkish  red,  according  to  age.  It  breaks  with  a short 
somewhat  fibrous  fracture,  having  a deep  carmine-red  color  except  internally,  and  dis- 
playing rather  indistinct  medullary  rays  and  some  resin-ducts.  Larch-bark  has  a slightly 
balsamic  and  terebinthinate  odor  and  an  astringent  taste. 

Constituents. — Stenhouse  (1861)  found  larch-bark  to  contain  a peculiar  tannin , 
which  yields  olive-green  precipitates  with  salts  of  iron,  turns  red  on  being  boiled  with 
dilute  sulphuric  acid,  but  does  not  yield  any  sugar , which,  however,  is  contained  in  the 
decoction  of  the  bark,  together  with  a considerable  quantity  of  mucilage  and  resinous 
matter.  By  evaporating  the  warm  infusion  of  the  bark  to  a syrupy  consistence  and  then 
distilling  it,  larixinic  acid , C10H10O5,  crystallizes  partly  in  the  neck  of  the  retort,  the 
remainder  being  obtained  by  carefully  concentrating  the  distillate  and  purifying  the 
product  by  sublimation.  The  bark  of  the  branches  and  of  trees  not  over  thirty  years  old 
yields  the  largest  proportion.  It  forms  long  colorless  crystals  resembling  those  of  benzoic 
acid,  sublimes  at  93°  C.  (199.4°  F.),  fuses  at  150°  0.  (302°  F.),  and  has  a bitterish  and 
astringent  taste  and  a camphoraceous  odor.  Its  combinations  with  alkalies  are  red-brown 
and  decomposed  by  carbonic  acid  ; baryta  solution  causes  a bulky  precipitate  ; ferric  salts 
produce  a purple  color,  and  on  boiling  it  with  silver  salts  the  metal  is  separated ; nitric 
acid  oxidizes  it  to  oxalic  acid.  It  is  sparingly  soluble  in  ether  and  freely  soluble  in 
alcohol  and  hot  water.  It  is  allied  to  pyrogallol  and  pyrocatechin. 

Allied  Products. — The  bark  of  the  American  larch,  Larix  americana,  Michaux.  which  is  more 
slender  and  has  shorter  leaves  and  smaller  cones,  deserves  to  be  investigated. 

Hemlock-bark  is  the  inner  layer  of  the  bark  of  Tsuga  (Abies,  Michaux ) canadensis,  CarriZre; 
it  resembles  larch-bark,  but  the  surfaces  are  orange-brown  or  brownish-red,  the  inner  one  having 
a yellowish  and  paler  tint ; the  short-fibrous  fracture  is  mottled  whitish  and  brownish  ; the  taste 
strongly  astringent. 

Action  and  Uses. — Its  action  does  not  differ  from  that  of  other  terebinthinate 
and  balsamic  remedies,  but  its  flavor  is  less  disagreeable.  With  the  inner  bark  a 
saturated  tincture  has  been  prepared,  and  highly  recommended  in  chronic  bronchitis 
and  in  chronic  inflammation  of  the  urinary  mucous  membrane.  It  has  also  been 
used  in  passive  haemorrhages  and  in  purpura  hsemorrhagica . The  dose  of  the  tincture  is 
from  Gm.  1.30  to  2 (n^  xx-xxx). 

LAUROCERASI  FOLIA,  Br. — Cherry-Laurel  Leaves. 

Laurier -cerise,  Fr.  Cod. ; Kirschlorbeerbliitter , G.  ; Lauroceraso , F.  I.  ; Laurel  cerezo,  Sp. 

The  fresh  leaves  of  Prunus  Laurocerasus,  Linne  (Cerasus  Laurocerasus,  Loiselt-ur). 
Steph.  and  Church,  Med.  Bot .,  plate  117  ; Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 98. 

Nat.  Ord. — Rosaceae,  Pruneae. 

Origin.— The  cherry-laurel  is  a small  evergreen  tree,  or  is  frequently  a shrub  3 to 
6 M.  (9-20  feet)  high,  with  a smooth  brownish  bark  and  pale-green  branches,  and  pro- 
duces pendulous  racemes  of  dark-purple,  shining,  cherry-like  drupes.  It  is  a native  of 
Western  Asia  from  Northern  Persia  to  Asia  Minor,  but  it  has  been  naturalized  in  Southern 
Europe,  and  is  cultivated  in  the  open  air  as  an  ornamental  shrub  northward  to  Southern 
Germany  and  England. 

Description. — The  leaves  are  leathery,  glossy,  and  dark-green  above,  pale-green 
beneath,  oblong  in  outline,  narrowed  above  to  an  obtuse  point  and  below  to  a short  petiole. 
They  are  about  15  Cm.  (6  inches)  long  and  5 Cm.  (2  inches)  wide,  somewhat  revolute 


LA  UR  US. 


931 


on  the  margin,  with  distant  and  small  but  sharp  serratures.  The  midrib  is  quite  prom- 
inent on  the  lower  surface,  and  has  near  its  base  one  or  two  pairs  of  depressed  glands. 
The  unbroken  fresh  leaves  are  inodorous,  but  when  broken  they  have  a strong  bitter- 
almond  odor ; their  taste  is  aromatic,  bitter,  and  somewhat  astringent. 

Constituents. — Cherry-laurel  leaves  contain  some  sugar,  tannin,  wax,  fat,  and, 
according  to  Stange  (1823),  an  acid  allied  to,  if  not  identical  with,  malic  acid.  The  same 
author  recognized  also  the  production  of  benzoic  acid  from  the  volatile  oil  in  the  presence 
of  oxygen.  Liebig  and  Wohler  did  not  succeed  in  isolating  amygdalin.  F.  L.  Winckler 
(1839)  obtained  the  bitter  principle  as  a soft,  transparent,  wine-yellow  mass,  which,  when 
treated  with  dilute  sulphuric  acid  and  manganese  dioxide,  yielded  a distillate  of  a very 
agreeable  odor  which  did  not  contain  hydrocyanic  acid.  When  treated  with  emulsion  of 
sweet  almonds  the  taste  became  gradually  less  bitter,  and  the  odor  of  bitter  almonds  was 
developed.  The  leaves  seem  to  contain  a compound  from  which  amygdalin  must  be  first 
produced  before  the  volatile  oil  can  be  obtained,  which  has  the  same  composition  as  oil  of 
bitter  almonds.  Broeker  (1867)  observed  that  the  watery  distillate  is  strongest  in  hydro- 
cyanic acid  if  the  leaves  were  collected  in  the  summer.  Schoonbroodt  (1869)  obtained 
from  the  aqueous  extract,  on  treatment  with  ether,  some  bitter  crystals  which  reduced 
cupric  oxide. 

Action  and  Uses. — Cherry-laurel  leaves  are  official  in  the  British  Pharmacopoeia, 
chiefly  as  the  source  from  which  cherry-laurel  water  is  obtained.  Their  medicinal 
virtues  depend  upon  the  hydrocyanic  acid  which  they  furnish,  and  are  treated  of  under 
Aqua  Laurocerasi  and  Acidum  Hydrocyanicum.  The  bruised  fresh  leaves  are 
used  as  anodyne  applications  to  painful  parts. 

LAURUS. — Laurel. 

Bay,  Sweet  bay,  E. ; Laurier  commun,  Fr.  Cod.  ; Lorbeer,  G. ; Alloro,  It. ; Laurel , Sp. 

European  pharmacopoeias  recognize  the  leaves,  fruit,  and  expressed  oil  of  Laurus 
nobilis,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  221. 

Nat.  Ord. — Laurineae,  Litseaceae. 

Origin. — The  bay  tree  is  indigenous  to  the  Levant,  grows  wild  in  the  countries  bor- 
dering the  Mediterranean,  and  is  cultivated  in  Mexico.  It  is  a small  tree  or  large  shrub 
with  umbellate  clusters  of  yellowish  flowers. 

Description. — 1.  Folia  lauri.  They  are  7 to  10  Cm.  (3-4  inches)  long,  25  Mm. 
(1  inch)  or  more  broad,  shortly  petiolate,  coriaceous,  smooth,  pellucid-punctate,  oblong 
or  oblong-lanceolate,  rather  acute  at  both  ends,  entire,  glossy  above  and  veined  beneath. 
The  veins  form,  with  the  midrib,  an  acute  angle,  send  off  numerous  lateral  branches 
forming  a network  of  small  meshes,  and  disappear  near  the  margin  of  the  leaf  without 
prominently  anastomosing.  The  dry  leaves  are  of  a yellowish-  or  brownish-green  color. 
They  have  a pleasant  aromatic  odor  and  an  aromatic  and  bitterish  taste. 

2.  Fructus  (Baccle)  lauri,  P.  A.,  P.  G.  The  so-called  bay-berries  are  oval  or  sub- 
globular  drupes  about  13  Mm.  (I  inch)  long.  When  dry,  they  are  greenish-black  or 
blackish-brown,  slightly  wrinkled,  and  fragile,  the  integuments,  including  the  reddish- 
brown  endocarp,  being  thin  and  brittle.  The  large  oval  seed  is  easily  separated  into  the 
two  plano-convex  brownish  cotyledons,  which  have  an  aromatic  oily  and  bitter  taste. 

3.  Oleum  lauri  (s.  laurinum,  s.  lauri  expressum,  s.  lauri  unguinosum),  P.  A., 
P.  G. ; Oleum  e fructu  lauri,  Fr.  Cod. ; Olio  di  lauro,  F.  It.  It  is  obtained  in  Southern 
Europe  by  expressing  the  bruised  fruit  between  warm  plates  after  steeping  it  in  hot 
water.  It  has  the  consistence  of  lard,  a granular  appearance,  a green  color,  and  an  aro- 
matic odor  and  taste.  It  melts  near  40°  C.  (104°  F.)  to  a clear  dark-green  liquid,  is 
soluble  in  II  parts  of  ether,  partly  soluble  in  alcohol,  and  does  not  yield  its  coloring 
matter  to  water.  When  agitated  with  warm  alcohol  the  alcoholic  solution  should  not 
become  red  on  the  addition  of  ammonia  (absence  of  turmeric).  Fictitious  oils,  if  colored 
with  curcuma  and  indigo,  leave  these  behind  when  dissolved  in  ether. 

Constituents. — The  leaves  and  fruit  contain  volatile  oil,  of  the  spec.  grav.  0.91  to 
0.924.  Bley  (1834)  obtained  from  old  berries  .22  per  cent.  Gladstone  (1863)  found 
eugenol,  while  Bias  (1865)  could  not  detect  this,  but  proved  the  presence  of  a little  lauric 
acid.  Wallach  (1883)  showed  both  oils  to  yield  pinene  and  cineol  below  180°  C.,  while 
the  higher-boiling  fraction  of  the  leaf  oil  has  the  odor  of  anethol.  The  seeds  contain, 
according  to  Bonastre  (1824),  about  20  per  cent,  of  fat,  2 per  cent,  of  volatile  oil,  and 
15  per  cent,  of  resin.  The  expressed  fat  was  analyzed  by  A.  Staub  (1879),  who  deter- 
mined, besides  volatile  oil  and  chlorophyll,  the  presence  of  a little  acetic  acid  and  the 


932 


LAVANDULA. 


glycerides  of  oleic,  linoleic,  lauric,  myristic,  palmitic,  and  stearic  acids.  Laurie  acid , 
Ci2H.2A,  discovered  by  Marsson  (1842),  has  been  found  in  many  vegetable  and  a few 
animal  fats;  it  melts  at  43.5°  C.  (110.3°  F.),  and  volatilizes  with  the  vapors  of  boiling 
water  (Goergey,  1848).  Schmidt  and  Roemer  found  little  free  acid  in  the  freshly- 
expressed  oil,  but  the  fruit  contained  2 to  3 per  cent,  of  fatty  acids. 

Allied  Plants. — Lindera  (Laurus,  Linnt)  Benzoin,  Blume  (Benzoin  odoriferum,  Nees ); 
Spicebush , wild  allspice , feverbush , E.  ; Laurier-benzoin , Fr. ; Benzoelorbeer,  G.  This  shrub 
grows  in  damp  woods  from  Canada  southward  to  Florida  and  westward  to  Kansas,  and  produces 
in  March  and  April  lateral  clusters  of  four  or  five  yellow  inconspicuous  flowers.  The  bark  forms 
thin  quills,  is  yellowish  or  pale-brown  and  smooth  upon  the  inner  surface,  blackish-brown  ancl 
minutely  dotted  with  corky  warts  upon  the  outer  surface,  breaks  with  a short  granular  fracture, 
has  an  agreeable  though  not  very  strong  odor,  and  an  aromatic  somewhat  pungent  and  astringent 
taste.  Older  bark  has  a brown-gray  or  dark-ash  color  and  more  prominent  corky  warts.  The 
fruit  is  an  obovate  red  drupe  about  8 Mm.  (f  inch)  long,  after  drying  blackish  and  granular 
upon  the  surface,  and  contains  a single  large  white  seed  having  an  oily  taste,  while  the  fragile 
integuments  of  the  fruit  have  a spicy  taste,  and  when  bruised  an  agreeable  odor. 

The  bark  yields  0.43  per  cent,  of  volatile  oil  of  spec.  grav.  0.923  (Schimmel  & Co.,  1890).  T. 
Morris  Jones  (1873)  observed  that  oxidizing  agents,  acting  upon  the  oil,  develop  a bitter-almond 
odor ; a little  tannin,  starch,  sugar,  fat,  and  tasteless  resin  are  also  present  in  the  bark.  The 
berries  contain  nearly  50  per  cent,  of  fat,  and  yield  about  5 per  cent,  of  very  fragrant  volatile  oil, 
spec.  grav.  0.855  (Gleim,  1875;  A.  W.  Miller,  1878  ; Schimmel  & Co.).  The  volatile  oil  of  the 
leaves  has  an  agreeable  lavender  odor. 

Lindera  sericea,  Blume , L.  triloba,  Bl .,  and  several  other  species  of  Japan  possess  tonic  and 
stimulating  properties ; and  the  former  yields  a fragrant  volatile  oil  which  has  been  introduced 
under  the  Japanese  name  of  kuromoji  oil. 

PerseA  gratissima,  Gcertner  (Laurus  Persea,  Linne );  Avocado,  E.,  G. ; Avocatier,  Fr. ; 
Aguacata,  Sp. — A small  tree  indigenous  to  South  America,  and  cultivated  in  the  tropics.  The 
leaves  are  about  12  Cm.  (5  inches)  long,  elliptic  or  obovate,  entire,  obtuse,  nearly  glabrous,  cori-  ; 
aceous  and  dark-green  above.  The  fruit,  known  as  alligator  pear , is  of  the  size  and  shape  of  a 
pear,  dark  purplish  or  brownish,  internally  green,  butyraceous,  has  an  agreeable  taste,  and  is 
eaten  like  butter  with  other  aliments ; hence  the  name  beurre  vtgttal  or  vegetable  butter.  The 
globose  seed  is  of  the  size  of  a walnut,  and  contains  a milk  juice  which  becomes  red  on  contact 
with  air,  and  is  used  like  indelible  ink.  According  to  Betancourt  (Thesis,  Mexico),  the  princi-  . 
pal  constituents  of  the  fruit  pulp  are  fixed  oils,  malates,  sugar,  gum,  etc. ; and  the  seed  contains  . 
starch,  mannit,  sugar,  fat,  etc.,  also  amygdalin  and  a ferment  yielding  hydrocyanic  acid. 

Action  and  Uses. — Bay  leaves  and  berries  were  anciently  held  in  high  esteem 
as  stimulant,  stomachic,  and  astringent,  and  in  substance  or  decoction  were  much 
used  for  the  stings  of  insects,  eruptions  of  the  scalp,  and  vaginal  relaxation  with  leucor- 
rhoea  ; a decoction  of  the  root-bark  was  given  internally  in  diseases  of  the  urinary  organs  { 
and  in  dropsy,  and  was  regarded  as  a powerful  emmenagogue.  More  efficient  medicines  j 
have  supplanted  it,  and  it  is  now  seldom  prescribed  except  in  the  form  of  its  volatile  and 
fixed  oils  for  relieving  local  rheumatic  and  other  pains.  In  Europe  the  fresh  leaves  con-  ‘ 
tinue  to  be  employed  for  flavoring  pastry  and  rendering  it  more  digestible. 

Benzoin  odoriferum  depends  for  its  stimulant  and  diaphoretic  virtues  upon  its  volatile 
oil,  which  has  been  used  in  the  forming  stage  of  acute  pulmonary  inflammations  and  rheu- 
matism, and  in  chronic  forms  of  the  latter  affection.  It  has  also  been  employed  as  a 
vermifuge.  The  bark  has  been  used  in  intermittent  fever.  During  the  Revolutionary  Mar 
the  berries  are  said  to  have  been  employed  as  a substitute  for  allspice,  and  in  the  late 
Civil  War  a similar  use  was  made  of  them  in  the  Southern  States.  The  oil  has  served  as 
an  ingredient  of  embrocations  for  rheumatism , contusions , and  other  local  painful  affections, 
and  internally  to  relieve  flatulent  colic.  It  has  also  been  applied  in  scabies.  The  bark  and 
the  berries  are  usually  administered  in  decoction  ; the  oil  may  be  prescribed  in  alcoholic 
solution  or  suspended  in  water  by  magnesia. 

A lligator  pear,  in  the  form  of  a fluid  extract  of  the  seeds,  has  had  anthelmintic  virtues 
ascribed  to  it,  but  upon  insufficient  grounds.  It  has  also  been  employed,  as  a fluid  extract, 
both  internally  and  topically,  for  neuralgia  and  muscular  rheumatism. 

LAV  ANDUL  A. — Lavender. 

Flores  lavandidse , P.  G. ; Flores  lavendidse. — Lavender-flowers , E. ; Lavande  officinale, 

Fr.  Cod. ; Lavendelbliithen , G.  ; Alhucema , Espliego , Sp. 

The  flowers  of  Lavandula  vera,  Be  Candolle  (L.  Spica,  var.  a,  Linne ; L.  angustifolia, 
Ehrhart ; L.  officinalis,  Chaix).  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 199. 

Nat.  Ord. — Labiatse,  Ocymoidem. 

Origin. — Lavender  is  a native  of  Southern  Europe  from  Italy  to  Spain,  and  of  North- 


LEON  UR  US. 


933 


western  Africa,  growing  upon  sunny  hillsides  and  mountains.  It  is  extensively  cultivated 
as  an  ornamental  garden-plant,  and  in  Europe 
also  for  the  purpose  of  distilling  the  volatile 
oil.  (For  an  account  of  the  cultivation  of  lav- 
ender at  Hitchin,  England,  see  Proc.  Amer. 

Phar.  Assoc.,  1876,  pp.  819-821.)  The  plant  is 
shrubby,  about  2 feet  (60  Cm.)  high,  has  a 
brown-gray  bark,  which  is  much  cleft  when  old, 
opposite,  sessile,  entire,  and  linear  leaves,  with 
revolute  margins  and  long  - stalked  terminal 
spikes,  with  the  lower  whorls  of  flowers  re- 
mote from  the  others.  The  flowers  are  collected 
in  June  and  July  before  fully  expanded,  and  re- 
quire to  be  carefully  dried. 

Description. — The  flowers  grow  in  the  axil 
of  rhombic-obovate,  pointed,  brownish,  and  glan- 
dular bracts  of  nearly  the  length  of  the  calyx. 

The  latter  is  about  l inch  (4  Mm.)  long,  tubular,  thirteen-nerved,  contracted  and  naked 
at  the  mouth,  with  the  upper  tooth  roundish-rhomboid  and  the  remaining  four  teeth  obso- 
lete, densely  covered  with  short  hairs  and  minute  glands,  and  of  a blue-gray  color.  The 
corolla  exceeds  the  calyx,  and  is  violet-blue,  tubular,  enlarged  above,  hairy  and  glandular 
on  the  outside,  and  two-lipped,  the  upper  lip  being  erect  and  two-lobed,  and  the  smaller 
lower  lip  spreading  and  three-lobed.  The  four  stamens  are  quite  short  and  inserted  in 
the  middle  of  the  hairy  corolla-tube.  Lavender-flowers  have  an  agreeable  aroma,  which 
becomes  more  apparent  on  bruising  and  rubbing  them,  and  a bitterish  aromatic  somewhat 
camphoraceous  taste. 

Constituents. — Besides  some  tannin,  resin,  and  other  widely-diffused  principles, 
lavender-flowers  contain  volatile  oil,  when  fresh  yielding  about  1 per  cent.  (See  Oleum 
Lavandulae.) 

Allied  Plants. — Lavandula  spica,  Chaix , s.  L.  latifolia,  Ehrhart. — Spike  lavender,  E.; 
Spic,  Lavande  commune,  Fr.  Cod.;  Spiklavendel,  G. — The  plant  has  spatulate  leaves,  rather 
short  and  dense  spikes,  and  lance-linear  bracts.  The  calyx  is  finely  velvety-hairy,  not  blue,  and 
about  the  same  length  as  the  calyx-tube.  The  plant  is  cultivated  in  Southern  France  and 
Northern  Africa,  and  volatile  oil  is  distilled  from  it. 

Lavandula  stcechas,  Linn£. — Arabian  or  French  lavender,  E. ; Stoechas,  Fr. ; Schopflaven- 
del,  G. ; Cantuesa,  Sp. — This  small  shrub  grows  near  the  Mediterranean,  where  the  flowering 
spikes  are  used.  These  are  short-stalked,  and  have  the  small  dark-purple  flowers  in  the  axil  of 
conspicuous  rhombic  or  obovate,  sometimes  three-lobed,  purple-colored  bracts ; the  odor  is 
strongly  aromatic,  camphoraceous. 

Ocymum  Basilicum,  Linn6. — Sweet  basil,  E. ; Basilic,  Fr.  Cod. ; Basilienkraut,  G. ; Albahaca, 
Sp. — This  annual  herb  is  indigenous  to  tropical  Asia  and  Africa,  and  is  frequently  cultivated  in 
gardens.  The  stem  is  branching  and  more  or  less  pilose ; the  long  petiolate  leaves  are  oblong- 
ovate,  somewhat  toothed,  smooth,  and  beneath  glandular-punctate  ; the  flowers  are  in  somewhat 
interrupted  spikes,  the  calyx  short  and  ciliate,  and  the  corolla  white  or  reddish,  with  a short 
tube,  a broad  four-lobed  upper  lip,  and  a descending  spatulate  lower  lip.  The  herb  has  a strong 
and  agreeable  aromatic  odor  and  a balsamic  and  cooling  taste  ; it  contains  volatile  oil  and  a little 
tannin. 

Action  and  Uses. — Lavender  is  a stimulant  aromatic,  remarkable  for  its  refresh- 
ing perfume.  It  is  seldom  used  internally,  unless  in  the  form  of  oil  or  spirit,  and  then 
associated  with  other  medicines.  The  infusion  (Gm.  4 to  60  = 5j  to  Oj)  is  said, 
when  too  freely  taken,  to  occasion  colic.  Fomentations  made  with  lavender  enclosed  in 
bags  allay  local  pains,  like  other  plants  of  the  Labiate  family. 

Ocymum  basilicum  (basil  or  sweet  basil)  is  a well-known  potherb  used  for  seasoning 
certain  kinds  of  food,  and  has  the  same  general  qualities  as  thyme,  sage,  etc.  It  has 
long  been  a popular  remedy  for  mild  nervous  or  hysterical  disorders,  and  in  Buenos 
Ayres  its  fresh  juice  is  said  to  be  used  as  an  anthelmintic , and  to  possess  the  advantage 
of  not  tending  to  produce  unpleasant  symptoms.  Its  essential  oil  was  formerly  in  vogue 
as  a carminative  and  nervine  {Med.  Record , xvi.  325). 

LEONURU  S . — Motherwort. 

Agripaumet  Car  diair  e,  Fr  \ Herzgespann , Wolfstrapp , G. 

Leonurus  Cardiaca,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Labiatae,  Stachydeae. 


Fig.  171 . 


Lavender-flower,  with  bract  and  corolla  cut  open; 
magnified  4 diameters. 


934 


LEPTANDRA. 


Description. — Motherwort  is  a perennial  herb  growing  in  waste  places  and  near 
dwellings  throughout  Europe,  Northern  Asia,  and  North  America.  It  is  .9  or  1.2  M.  (3 
or  4 feet)  high,  and  has  a quadrangular  rather  rough  stem.  The  lower  leaves  are  round- 
ish, often  heart-shaped  at  the  base,  and  palmately  five-  to  seven-lobed  ; the  upper  ones 
are  oblong,  acutely  three-lobed,  and  have  a wedge-shaped  base.  The  pale-purplish  flowers 
have  awl-shaped  or  spiny-toothed  calyx-teeth,  and  are  in  dense  axillary  cymules.  The 
plant  has  a rather  unpleasant  aromatic  odor  and  a bitter  taste. 

Constituents. — It  evidently  contains  volatile  oil ; the  bitter  principle  has  not  been 
isolated. 

Allied  Plants. — Of  the  numerous  plants  belonging  to  the  tribe  Stachydese,  the  following  seem 
to  deserve  a brief  notice  (see  also  Marrubium  and  Scutellaria)  : 

Stachys  palustris,  Linn6 . — Hedge  nettle,  E. ; Ortie  rouge,  Fr. ; Stinknessel,  Sumpfziest,  G. 

— Grows  in  wet  places  in  Europe  and  North  America,  is  stiff-hairy,  and  has  nearly  sessile,  ovate 
lanceolate,  somewhat  heart-shaped  leaves.  Other  species  of  Stachys  have  been  used  ; all  have 
subulate  calyx  teeth  and  purplish  corollas  with  a large  middle  lobe  of  the  lower  lip,  and  have  a 
rather  unpleasant  odor.  They  are  known  as  hedge-nettle,  E.,  epiaire,  Fr .,  Ziest,  G. , and  yerba 
de  la  feridura,  Sp. 

Betonica  officinalis,  Linne. — Wood-betony,  E. ; Betoine,  Fr.  Cod. — Is  a native  of  Southern 
Europe  and  grows  sparingly  in  Massachusetts.  It  is  rough-hairy,  has  cordate-oblong  leaves, 
the  cauline  ones  few,  and  purplish  or  whitish  soft-hairy  flowers  in  whorls  of  six  to  ten. 

Galeopsis  tetrahit,  Linne. — Hemp  nettle,  E. ; Chanvre  batard,  Galeopside,  Fr. ; Hanfnessel, 
Ilohlzahn,  G. — Introduced  from  Europe  into  North  America.  The  stem  is  densely  bristly, 
hairy  below  the  joints ; the  leaves  are  ovate,  usually  acute,  rather  rounded  at  the  base,  coarsely 
serrate.  The  flowers  are  in  dense  axillary  clusters,  have  long  spiny-toothed  calyx-teeth,  and  a 
white  or  yellowish  corolla,  with  a purple  spot  on  the  lower  lip. 

The  allied  species,  Gal.  ochroleuca,  Lamarck , and  G.  grandiflora,  Roth , at  one  time  attracted 
attention  in  Europe  as  the  principal  ingredients  of  a nostrum  sold  as  Blankenheim  tea  or  Lieber's 
consumption  herbs ; the  former  species  is  the  Herba  galeopsidis  of  European  pharmacopoeias. 

Ballota  nigra,  Linne. — Black  horehound,  E. ; Marrube  noil*  (fetide),  Fr. ; Schwarzer  Andorn, 

G. — Sparingly  naturalized  in  New  England.  The  stem  is  hairy,  often  red-brown ; the  leaves 
are  wrinkled,  hairy,  ovate,  slightly  heart-shaped,  acute,  and  crenately  toothed.  The  reddish- 
purple  flowers  are  in  axillary  clusters  of  five  to  nine. 

Lamium  album,  Linn6. — Dead  nettle,  i?.;  Ortie  blanche,  Fr.  Cod.;  Taubnessel,  G.  It  has  t 
likewise  been  introduced  from  Europe ; has  ovate,  heart-shaped,  and  coarsely  serrate,  petiolate 
leaves,  and  white  or  whitish  flowers  in  dense  axillary  clusters.  Lamium  amplexicaule,  Linn6, 
and  L.  purpureum,  Linn& , are  more  frequent  in  the  United  States ; they  have  roundish  leaves 
and  smaller  purplish  flowers. 

Many  other  species  of  the  above  genera  have  been  employed  in  Europe  and  Asia,  and,  like  the 
above,  contain  volatile  oil  and  a bitter  principle. 

Action  and  Uses. — A decoction  of  motherwort  is  sometimes  used  in  Europe  to 
promote  digestion  and  quicken  the  functions  of  the  skin.  There  also  L.  lanatus  is  re-  l 

garded  as  a vascular  stimulant  and  diuretic,  and  as  a general  tonic;  it  is  employed  in  ; 

dropsy , especially  of  hepatic  origin,  and  is  stated  to  impart  to  the  urine  a dark-brown 
color ; it  is  also  used  in  chronic  gout  and  rheumatism  and  to  relieve  uterine  obstructions.  I 
A hot  infusion  may  be  prepared  with  Gm.  16-32  in  Gm.  500  (^ss-i  in  Oj)  of  water. 

The  several  species  of  Stachys  have  been  used  as  local  and  general  stimulants ; Beton- 
ica officinalis  and  Galeopsis  were  employed  for  the  cure  of  intermittent  fever  and  chrome 
bronchitis  ; Ballota  nigra  was  esteemed  a stimulant  and  antispasmodic  and  prescribed  as 
a vermifuge,  and  Lamium  album , which  is  bitter  and  astringent,  was  thought  to  be  a 
valuable  remedy  for  chronic  diarrhoea  and  leucorrhoea,  passive  haemorrhages,  etc. 

LEPTANDRA,  TJ.  S. — Leptandra. 

Culver's  Root , Culver1  s Physic , Black-root , E.  ; Racine  de  leptandra , s.  de  veronique  de 
Virginie , Fr. ; Leptandra-  Wurzel,  G. 

The  rhizome,  with  the  rootlets,  of  Veronica  virginica,  Linne  (Leptandra  virginica. 
Nutt-all.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 196. 

Nat.  Ord. — Scrophularineae. 

Origin. — Leptandra  is  indigenous  to  Canada,  and  to  the  United  States  as  far  west  as 
the  Mississippi  Valley  ; in  its  southern  locations  it  grows  in  mountain-valleys,  and  farther 
north  in  low  grounds  and  rich  woodlands.  It  sends  up  an  obtusely-angular  stem  0.9-1. 8 
M.  (3  to  6 feet)  high,  has  the  sliort-petioled,  lanceolate,  and  serrate  leaves  in  verticils 
of  four  or  five,  and  the  white  flowers  with  the  two  much-exserted  stamens  in  panicled 
spikes  7-15  Cm.  (3  to  6 inches)  long.  It  flowers  in  July  and  August,  and  produces 
ovate,  two-celled,  and  many-seeded  capsules. 


LEV1STICUM. 


935 


Description. — The  rhizome  is  10-15  Cm.  (4  to  G inches)  long,  and  about  6 Mm.  (1 
inch)  thick,  horizontal,  somewhat  bent,  and  branched,  blackish-brown  to  brown-black, 
nearly  free  from  wrinkles,  but  the  bark  is  sometimes  transversely 
fissured.  The  upper  side  has  short  remnants  of  the  stems  or  cup- 
shaped scars  2-5  Cm.  (|  to  2 inches)  apart ; the  numerous  root- 
lets, which  are  chiefly  attached  to  the  lower  side,  are  blackish, 
about  1.5  Mm.  (jL  inch)  thick,  longitudinally  wrinkled,  quite 
fragile,  and  therefore  usually  detached  and  much  broken.  The 
rhizome  is  hard,  and  breaks  with  a woody  fracture,  showing  a Leptandra  virginica:  trans- 
large  purplish-brown  pith  and  a few  medullary  rays  dissecting  the  ver® e^secUons  of  rhizomes 
yellowish  wood,  which  is  eight  to  ten  times  thicker  than  the  black- 
ish-gray bark.  The  ligneous  cord  of  the  rootlets  is  of  about  the  same  thickness  as  the 
bark.  Leptandra  has  no  odor  ; its  taste  is  bitter  and  feebly  acrid. 

Constituents. — According  to  the  analysis  of  Prof.  Wayne  (1856),  leptandra  con- 
tains, besides  widely-diffused  principles,  like  tannin,  gum,  resin,  and  a trace  of  volatile  oil, 
a principle  having  the  nauseous  bitter  taste  of  the  drug,  and  therefore  deserving  to  be 
called  leptandrin.  It  is  soluble  in  water,  alcohol,  and  ether,  and  was  obtained  by  precipi- 
tating the  infusion  with  lead  subacetate,  removing  the  excess  of  lead  from  the  filtrate, 
by  sodium  carbonate,  and  passing  the  liquid  through  a column  of  animal  charcoal ; this 
was  washed  with  water  and  then  treated  with  boiling  alcohol,  and  the  extract  left  on 
evaporation  treated  with  ether ; on  evaporating  the  -ether  spontaneously  a portion  of  lep- 
tandrin crystallized ; the  remainder  was  contaminated  with  coloring  matter,  which  pre- 
vented it  from  crystallizing.  The  so-called  leptandrin  of  the  eclectics,  which  is  obtained 
by  precipitating  the  concentrated  tincture  with  water,  appears  to  owe  its  efficacy  to  the 
accidental  presence  of  the  principle  described.  From  the  mother-liquor  of  this  eclectic 
preparation  Wayne  (1859)  obtained  mannit.  F.  F.  Mayer  (1863)  observed  the  bitter 
principle  to  be  at  least  partly  precipitated  by  tannin,  and  that  portion  to  be  a glucoside  ; 
he  also  found  saponin , some  citric  acid , and  a small  quantity  of  a volatile  alkaloid.  Prof. 
Lloyd  (1880)  reported  the  presence  of  a considerable  amount  of  glucose,  and  that  the 
bitter  taste  of  the  tincture  is  destroyed  by  boiling  with  dilute  sulphuric  acid. 

Action  and  Uses. — Although  this  medicine  has  long  been  in  use  and  is  officinal, 
we  do  not  learn  that  it  has  commended  itself  to  educated  physicians  by  its  peculiar 
virtues,  although  they  are  sufficiently  marked  to  merit  greater  attention.  The  root, 
when  fresh  or  recent,  acts  violently  as  an  emeto-cathartic,  and  the  impure  resin  obtained 
from  it,  and  ignorantly  called  leptandrin,  as  if  it  were  itself  the  proximate  active  prin- 
ciple of  the  plant,  produces  similar  effects  when  the  dose  is  excessive.  Like  all  gastro- 
intestinal irritants,  it  probably  promotes  the  secretions  of  the  mucous  glands,  the  pan- 
creas, and  the  liver,  but  has  no  specific  influence  upon  the  last-named  organ,  as  has  been 
confidently  assumed.  According  to  Rutherford,  its  stimulant  action  on  the  liver  is 
“ very  feeble,”  and  it  resembles  podophyllin  in  its  operation.  The  dose  of  the  powder 
is  stated  to  be  Gm.  1.30-4  (gr.  xx-lx),  and  of  leptandrin  Gm.  0.10-0.20  (gr.  ij-iv).  It 
has  also  been  given  in  tincture  and  fluid  extract. 

LEVISTICUM.— Lovage. 

Radix  levistici , P.  G.  ; Li  veche,  Fr.  Cod. ; Ache  de  montagne,  Fr.  ; Liehstockel , G. 

The  root  of  Levisticum  officinalo,  Koch , s.  Ligusticum  Levisticum,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Umbelliferae,  Seselineae. 

Origin. — Lovage  is  indigenous  to  the  mountainous  districts  of  Southern  Europe,  and 
has  a stem  about  1.2  M.  (4  feet)  high,  terminal  umbels  of  yellow  flowers,  and  elliptical 
or  oval  fruits  with  winged  ribs,  and  one  or  more  oil-tubes  in  each  groove.  The  plant  is 
sometimes  cultivated  in  gardens. 

Description. — The  root  is  altogether  about  40  Cm.  (16  inches)  long,  25-38  Mm.  (1 
or  lh  inches)  thick,  several-headed,  indistinctly  annulate,  longitudinally  wrinkled,  some- 
what branched  below,  and  is  yellowish-brown  externally  and  pale-yellowish  internally.  It 
has  a thick  bark,  which  is  radially  striate  from  the  medullary  rays,  fissured  in  the  outer 
portion,  and  contains  numerous  orange-yellow  resin-cells  arranged  in  irregular  concentric 
circles.  The  meditullium  is  denser,  but  soft,  and  has  narrow  medullary  rays  and  in  the 
upper  portion  a central  pith.  It  has  a strong  balsamic  odor,  somewhat  resembling  that 
of  angelica,  and  a mucilaginous,  aromatic,  and  pungent  taste. 

Constituents. — Lovage  was  analyzed  by  Trommsdorff  (1836),  Riegel  (1840),  and 
others,  and  found  to  yield  a thickish  volatile  oil  containing  much  stearopten,  various 


936 


LI  A THIS. 


resins,  some  soft,  others  hard' (one  having  a bitter  and  pungent  taste),  sugar,  mucilage, 
and  other  common  principles. 

Allied  Drugs. — Ligusticum  filicinum,  Watson. — It  grows  in  the  Rocky  Mountains  and  has  a 
root  resembling  lovage  in  appearance  and  properties,  which  is  known  as  Colorado  cough-root , 
and  to  the  Indians  as  osha.  Lig.  actaeifolium,  Michaux , is  indigenous  to  the  Southern  states 
and  has  similar  properties. 

Pimpinella  Saxifraga  and  P.  magnA,  Linne,  Radix  pimpinellae,  P.  G. — Small  burnet  saxi- 
frage, E.;  Grand  boucage,  Fr. ; Pimpinell,  Bibernell,  G. — Indigenous  to  Europe  and  Asia. 
The  root  resembles  the  preceding,  but  is  brown-yellow  or  blackish,  usually  one-headed,  not  over 
15  Mm.  (finch)  thick,  finely  annulate  above  and  wrinkled  and  verrucose  below;  the  bark  is 
very  thick,  spongy,  either  white  or  yellowish,  contains  numerous  resin-cells  (in  the  medullary 
rays),  and  encloses  a porous  radiate  yellow  wood.  The  constituents  are  similar  to  those  of  the 
preceding. 

Tinctura  pimpinella:,  P.  G.,  is  made  with  1 part  of  the  root  to  5 parts  of  alcohol  sp.  grav. 
0.892. 

Laserpitium  latifolium,  Linn6.  The  root  was  formerly  known  as  Radix  gentiance  albas , from 
its  resemblance  in  shape  to  that  of  gentian-root,  but  it  is  externally  brownish-white,  internally 
white,  and  contains  yellow  resin-cells  in  the  thick  spongy  bark.  Kiitz  (1883)  isolated  from  it 
bitter  laserpitin , C15H2204,  which  separates  from  hot  benzin  in  monoclinic  crystals,  and  is  easily 
soluble  in  chloroform,  ether,  benzol,  and  carbon  disulphide. 

Peucedanum  officinale,  Linn6.  The  root  is  externally  blackish,  internally  brownish-yellow, 
and  enclosing  a soft  porous  wood,  with  resin-cells  in  the  medullary  rays.  (For  peucedanin , see 
p.  864. 

Action  and  Uses. — Levisticum  belongs  to  the  large  class  of  plants  containing  an 
essential  oil  and  a resin,  which  have  always  been  employed  as  carminatives,  diuretics, 
emmenagogues,  and  digestive  stimulants.  It  has  been  much  used  in  flatulent  dyspepsia , 
amenorrhoea , and  dropsy , especially  in  Germany,  where  it  is  prescribed  as  a substitute 
for  angelica.  It  is  administered  in  decoction  or  infusion  (Gm.  5-10  in  Gm.  100),  in 
tablespoonful  doses.  Pimpinella  saxifraga,  is  endowed  with  similar  properties,  and  was 
formerly  much  used  to  expel  the  mercury  remaining  in  the  system  after  the  treatment 
of  syphilis.  The  root  of  Laserpitium  latifolium  is  an  active  cathartic.  Peucedanum 
officinale  was  in  ancient,  and  even  in  modern  times,  employed  as  a diuretic,  aromatic, 
and  nervine  medicine. 


LI  ATRIS . — Li  atris  . 

Nat.  Ord. — Composite,  Eupatoriese. 

Description. — The  genus  Liatris  embraces  principally  North  American  perennial 
herbs  with  tuberous  roots,  simple  and  erect  stems,  alternate  and  entire  leaves,  and  hand- 
some rose-purple  flower-heads  with  an  oblong  imbricate  involucre,  naked  receptacle,  and 
a pappus  composed  of  many  bristles.  The  flowers  are  usually  in  terminal  spikes  or 
racemes. 

Liatris  spicata,  Willdenow.  The  tuberous  rhizome  is  known  as  Button  snake-root, 
Devil's  bit , and  Colic-root.  It  is  \ inch  (12  Mm.)  or  more  in  diameter,  somewhat  tuber- 
culate  from  short  branches,  and  marked  with  several  cup-shaped  stem-scars.  It  is 
slightly  wrinkled  and  of  a brown  color  externally,  and  internally  of  a dingy  white,  with 
streaks  of  brown.  Its  odor  is  somewhat  balsamic  and  its  taste  warm  and  bitterish. 

L.  squarrosa,  Willdenow,  and  L.  scariosa,  Willdenow , are  known  as  Rattlesnake' s mas- 
ter. The  rhizomes  resemble  the  preceding,  but  are  more  elongated,  irregularly  ovate,  and 
beset  with  a few  wiry  rootlets.  Internally  they  are  of  a brownish  color. 

L.  odoratissima,  Willdenow , Vanilla-plant  o*r  Deer's  tongue.  The  radical  leaves  are 
obovate-spatulate,  obtuse,  about  seven-veined,  narrowed  below  ; the  stem-leaves  are  oval 
or  oblong,  and  clasping  at  the  base.  All  the  leaves  are  rather  fleshy,  pale-green,  and 
smooth,  and  after  drying  have  a very  agreeable  odor. 

Constituents. — The  rhizomes  appear  to  contain  volatile  oil  and  resin.  The  leaves 
of  the  deer’s  tongue  were  found  by  Procter  (1859)  to  contain  coumarin,  which  is  fre- 
quently separated  upon  the  surface  in  crystals. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Their  agreeable  and  persistent  odor  renders  deer’s  tongue 
leaves  serviceable  in  the  preparation  of  sachet  powders,  etc.,  as  suggested  by  Dr.  A.  W. 
Miller  (1875). 

Action  and  Uses. — L.  spicata  is  one  of  the  numerous  “ snake-roots,”  which  owe 
whatever  virtue  they  possess  to  being  diaphoretic  when  administered  in  hot  decoction  in 
consequence  of  the  acrid  or  stimulant  principles  they  contain.  Its  qualities  adapt  it  to 


LI  MON. 


937 


relieve  flatulent  colic.  It  is  also  diuretic,  and  is  used  in  nephritic  complaints.  L.  odor- 
atissima  has  an  odor  resembling  that  of  vanilla,  for  which  reason  it  is  sometimes  mixed 
with  smoking  tobacco  and  introduced  into  cigars.  Other  species,  L.  scariosa  and  L. 
squarrosa,  are  especially  high  in  popular  esteem  as  antidotes  to  the  rattlesnake's  bite , 
both  internally  and  locally,  and  are  employed  in  gonorrhoea  and  also  to  prepare  gargles 
for  sore  throat.  Liatris  is  administered  in  decoction  and  tincture. 

LIMON,  Fr.  Cod.— Lemon. 

Citron , Fr. ; Citrone , Limone , G. ; Limon , Sp. 

Citrus  Limonum,  Risso  (C.  medica,  var.  /?,  Linne).  Bentley  and  Trimem  Med. 
Plants , 54. 

Nat.  Ord. — Rutaceee. 

Official  Parts.; — 1.  Limonis  cortex,  U.  S.,  Br. ; Cortex  fructus  citri,  P.  G.  ; 
Lemon-peel,  E. ; Ecorce  (Zeste)  de#citron  (de  limon),  Fr. ; Citronenschale,  Limonen- 
schale,  G. 

The  rind  of  the  recent  fruit. 

2.  Limonis  succus,  U.  S.,  Br. ; Succus  ciiro,  Lemon-juice,  Lime-juice,  E. ; Sue  de 
citron  (de  limon),  Fr. ; Citronensaft,  Limonensaft,  G. 

The  freshly-expressed  juice  of  the  ripe  fruit. 

Origin. — The  lemon  is  a native  of  the  north-western  part  of  India,  where  it  is  found 
in  the  forests  up  to  an  altitude  of  about  1200  M.  (4000  feet).  It  is  extensively  culti- 
vated in  the  basin  of  the  Mediterranean,  and  the  culture  has  also  been  introduced  into 
the  southern  parts  of  the  United  States,  into  Australia,  and  into  most  tropical  and  sub- 
tropical countries.  Several  varieties  have  been  produced  from  the  original  stock,  of 
which,  besides  the  lemon,  the  following  are  quite  distinct : 

C.  medica,  Risso , Citron  or  Cedrat  (Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 53).  Its  flowers 
are  purplish  externally ; the  fruit  is  10-15  Cm.  (4  to  6 inches)  long,  ovate-oblong,  has  a 
rugged  and  thick  rind,  and  contains  an  acid  juice. 

C.  limetta,  Risso,  Sweet  lime.  Its  flowers  are  white  ; the  fruit  is  smaller  than  the 
lemon,  oval  or  roundish,  has  a smoother  and  thin  rind,  and  contains  an  insipidly  sweet 
juice. 

C.  Lumia,  Risso , has  likewise  a sweet  pulp.  The  sour  lime  is  the  fruit  of  Citrus  acida, 
Roxburgh , C.  acris,  Miller,  and  perhaps  other  varieties. 

The  lemon  tree  is  3.5-4.5  M.  (12  to  15  feet)  high,  irregularly  branched,  and  spiny  in 
the  leaf-axils;  the  leaves  are  oval  or  ovate-oblong,  somewhat  serrate,  leathery,  glossy 
above,  and  articulated  with  the  wingless  or  slightly-winged  petiole.  The  flowers  are 
mostly  solitary,  have  a small  calyx,  five  petals,  which  are  purplish-pink  externally,  and 
numerous  stamens.  The  fruit,  50-75  Mm.  (2  to  3 inches)  long,  varies  in  shape  between 
oval  and  obovate,  has  a nipple-shaped  apex,  a yellow  nearly  smooth  but  glandular  peri- 
carp, and  is  divided  into  eight  to  twelve  cells,  each  with  two  or  three  seeds. 

Description. — The  Peel. — Lemon-peel  forms  either  narrow  bands  or  oblong  and 
curved  sections  with  little  of  a spongy,  white  inner  layer  adhering  to  them  ; the  outer 
surface  has  a deep  lemon-yellow  color,  and  is  somewhat  uneven  from  numerous  oil-glands 
imbedded  in  the  tissue.  This  portion  has  an  agreeable  odor  and  an  aromatic  slightly 
bitter  taste  ; it  is  the  only  part  which  possesses  any  medicinal  value.  The  white  spongy 
tissue  underneath,  which  is  inodorous  and  nearly  tasteless,  should  be  rejected.  The 
Pharmacopoeia  now  directs  that  the  spongy  white  inner  layer  adhering  to  the  segments 
should  be  removed  before  use. 

The  Juice. — Lemon-juice  is  a slightly  turbid,  yellowish  liquid,  which  has  the  agreeable 
odor  of  lemon  and  an  acid  taste.  The  odor  is  usually  due  to  the  presence  of  a little 
volatile  oil  from  the  rind,  but  even  without  the  latter  lemon-juice  has  a slight  odor  dis- 
tinct from  that  of  the  peel.  Stoddard  determined  its  usual  specific  gravity  to  be  1.044, 
and  each  fluidounce  to  contain  44  grains  of  citric  acid  (about  9f  per  cent.  = 42.5  grains 
in  1 Imperial  fluidounce);  its  acid  strength,  however,  is  subject  to  variation.  The 
U.  S.  P.  requires  it  to  contain  about  7 per  cent,  of  citric  acid,  and  to  have  a specific  gravity 
not  less  than  1.030  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.).  According  to  II.  M.  Witt  (1854).  lemon-juice 
yields  from  0.2  to  0.7  per  cent,  of  ash ; W.  W.  Stoddart  (1868)  obtained  between  0.26 
and  0.6  per  cent.,  and  the  Pharmacopoeia  accepts  a juice  with  0.5  per  cent.  Lemon- 
juice  speedily  undergoes  decomposition,  the  citric  acid  decreasing  in  quantity,  at  first 
slowly,  afterward  rapidly,  as  shown  by  Stoddard.  Various  methods  for  its  preservation 
have  been  suggested,  most  of  which,  however,  fail  to  preserve  the  juice  in  condition  for 


938 


LIN  ARIA.— LINIMENT  UM  ACONITL 


medicinal  use.  It  has  been  proposed  to  concentrate  it  by  evaporation  or  freezing  before 
bottling  it,  or  to  exclude  the  air  by  a stratum  of  fixed  oil ; the  flavor,  however,  is  con- 
siderably modified.  A better  method  is  to  clarify  the  juice  by  adding  half  its  volume 
of  strong  alcohol ; the  decanted  liquid  is  then  freed  from  alcohol  at  a very  moderate  heat, 
and  the  remaining  liquid  put  into  suitable  bottles,  which  are  heated  to  near  the  boiling- 
point  for  about  an  hour,  and  then  hermetically  sealed.  The  juice  may  be  preserved  by 
the  same  method  without  the  previous  treatment  with  alcohol,  but  the  flavor  will  be 
impaired  on  keeping. 

Constituents. — The  principal  constituent  is  volatile  oil.  (See  Oleum  Limonis.) 

The  bitter  taste  is  probably  due  to  hesperidin  (see  page  312).  The  white  portion  is 
colored  black  by  ferric  salts ; the  principle  which  gives  rise  to  this  color  has  not  yet  been 
isolated. 

Lemon-juice  contains  from  7 to  10  per  cent,  of  citric  acid  and  0.5  to  1 per  cent,  of 
gum  and  sugar.  Witt  found  the  principal  constituents  of  the  ash  to  be  potassa  44.34 
lime  7.61,  and  phosphoric  acid  7.56  per  cent.  Cossa  (1872)  obtained  15  per  cent,  of 
phosphoric  acid. 

Uses.  Lemon-peel  is  used  in  medicine,  as  in  cookery,  for  the  sake  of  its  flavor. 

LIN  ARIA.— Toad  Flax. 

Herba  linarise. — Snapdragon , Ramsted , Butt  er-and- Eggs , E. ; Linaire  commune , Fr. ; 
Leinkraut , Flachskraut , Lowenmaul,  G.  ; Linaria , Sp. 

Linaria  vulgaris,  Miller , s.  Antirrhinum  Linaria,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Scrophulariaceae.  i®, 

Description. — The  toad  flax  is  a European  perennial,  now  extensively  naturalized  in 
North  America.  It  is  30-45  Cm.  (1  or  1J  feet)  high,  has  alternate,  sessile,  lance-linear, 
almost  three-nerved,  smooth,  and  light-green  leaves,  25-38  Mm.  (1  or  1$  inches)  long  ; 
and  terminal  racemes  of  showy  yellow  flowers,  which  have  a personate  corolla  and  at  the 
base  continued  into  a curved  spur  of  the  same  length.  When  fresh  the  herb  has  a slight 
disagreeable  odor  and  a bitterish  somewhat  acrid  taste.  t 

Constituents. — The  flowers  were  analyzed  by  Riegel  (1843).;  they  contain  a yellow 
coloring  matter,  mucilage,  sugar,  and  tannin.  Walz  obtained  an  acrid  principle,  resin,  and 
volatile  linarosmin  and  antirrhinic  acid. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparation. — Unguentum  linaria.  2 parts  of  the  dry 
plant  are  macerated  with  1 part  of  alcohol,  and  then  digested  with  10  parts  of  lard 
until  the  alcohol  has  evaporated  ; the  fat  is  expressed,  strained,  and  stirred  until  con- 
gealed. 

Action  and  Uses. — Common  toad  flax  is  used  in  Germany  for  jaundice , dropsy , •' 

and  diseases  of  the  skin , and  an  ointment  is  made  with  it  for  the  cure  of  hsemorrhoids.  A 
decoction  is  prepared  with  Gm.  15-30  in  water,  Gm.  250-500  (^ss-j  in  f^viij-xvi.) 


LINIMENTA. — Liniments. 

Embrocations , E.,  Fr.  ; Linimente , Einreibungen,  G. 

Liniments  are  liquid  or  semi-liquid  preparations  which  are  intended  for  external  use 
and  are  applied  to  the  skin  by  friction.  The  vehicle  may  be  oil  or  alcohol,  or  sometimes 
water  ; many  are  perfect  solutions,  others  mechanical  mixtures  which  should  be  well  agi- 
tated before  they  are  used ; a few  are  of  a soft  solid  consistence  at  the  ordinary  tempera- 
ture, but  become  liquid  when  applied  to  the  skin.  The  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia  since  1880 
uses  cotton-seed  oil  in  place  of  olive  oil,  formerly  directed. 

LINIMENTUM  ACONITI,  llr, — Liniment  of  Aconite. 

Liniment  d' aconite,  Fr. ; Akonitliniment , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Aconite-root,  in  No.  40  powder,  20  ounces ; Camphor  1 
ounce  ; Rectified  Spirit  a sufficiency.  Moisten  the  aconite  with  20  fluidounces  of  spirit, 
and  macerate  in  a closed  vessel  for  three  days  ; then  transfer  to  a percolator,  and,  when  the 
liquor  ceases  to  pass,  continue  the  percolation  with  more  of  the  spirit,  allowing  the  liquor 
to  drop  into  a receiver  containing  the  camphor  until  the  product  measures  30  fl.  oz. — Br. 

This  liniment  is  one-third  weaker  than  the  fluid  extract,  and  differs  also  in  containing 


L1NIMENTUM  A MMONIM—  BELL  AD  ONNJE. 


939 


camphor.  With  proper  manipulation  the  aconite-root  is  practically  exhausted  by  the  above 
process.  Procter  (1853)  had  suggested  an  aconite  liniment  which  has  been  dropped  from 
the  Pharmacopoeia  since  1880,  but  may  be  prepared  from  the  fluid  extract  of  aconite-root 
by  mixing  4 fluidounces  of  it  with  I fluidounce  of  glycerin  and  evaporating  the  mixture 
to  4 fluidounces. 

Uses. — This  liniment  is  convenient  for  using  aconite  locally  and  as  an  addition  to 
other  anodyne  applications.  It  is  chiefly  employed  for  the  relief  of  neuralgia  by  satur- 
ating it  with  disks  or  pledgets  of  cloth,  which  are  then  applied  to  the  painful  part. 
Mixed  with  an  equal  quantity  of  soap  liniment,  it  is  said  effectually  to  remove  the  pain 
of  dry  gangrene. 

LINIMENTUM  AMMONIA,  77.  S,9  Br. — Ammonia  Liniment. 

Linimentum  ammoniatum.  P.  G. ; Linimentum  volatile , Linimentum  ammoniacale. — Vol- 
atile liniment , E. ; Liniment  ammoniacal  ( yolatil ),  Savon  ammoniacal , F. ; Fliichtiges  Lini- 
ment. Fliichtige  Salbe,  G. 

Preparation. — Ammonia  water  350  Cc. ; Alcohol  50  Cc. ; Cotton-seed  oil  600  Cc. ; 
to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  them. — U.  S. 

Take  of  solution  of  ammonia  1 fluidounce  ; olive  oil  3 fluidounces.  Mix  together  with 
agitation. — Br. 

The  German  Pharmacopoeia  directs  3 parts  of  olive  oil  and  1 part  of  poppy-seed  oil, 
and  the  French  Codex  9 parts  of  expressed  oil  of  almonds  to  1 part  of  ammonia  water. 
The  fixed  oil  is  partly  decomposed,  with  the  formation  of  an  ammonia  soap,  by  means  of 
which  the  water  and  oil  are  kept  well  mixed  forming  an  opaque  emulsion.  Ammonia 
liniment  may  be  prepared  by  shaking  together  in  a bottle  3J  fluidounces  of  ammonia 
water,  \ fluidounce  of  alcohol,  and  6 fluidounces  of  cotton-seed  oil.  When  made  by  the 
present  official  formula  ammonia  liniment  is  sure  to  separate  into  two  distinct  layers  ; in 
our  experience  more  satisfactory  results  will  be  obtained  if  about  one-sixth  of  the  volume 
of  cotton-seed  oil  be  replaced  by  a like  quantity  of  common  olive  oil.  Old  cotton-seed 
oil  will  also  give  better  results  than  the  fresh  oil.  The  addition  of  alcohol  in  the  official 
formula  is  intended  to  preserve  the  fluidity  of  the  liniment,  as  the  latter  has  a tendency 
to  thicken  considerably  if  kept  on  hand  for  some  time.  On  being  kept,  the  liniment 
becomes  thicker,  and  finally  forms  a stiff  and  even  granular  mass,  which  Pother  prevents 
by  the  addition  of  a minute  quantity  of  oleic  acid. 

Linimentum  ammonite  camphoratum. — Camphorated  volatile  liniment,  E. ; Lini- 
ment ammoniacal  camphre,  Fr.  ; Fliichtiges  Kampher-liniment,  G. — The  French  Codex 
and  German  Pharmacopoeia  direct  it  to  be  made  precisely  like  volatile  liniment,  except 
that  camphor  liniment  is  substituted  for  the  almond  and  olive  oil. 

Uses. — This  preparation  represents  the  stimulant  rather  than  the  counter-irritant 
virtues  of  ammonia.  It  is  used  to  relieve  local  pains  of  a neuralgic  or  rheumatic  nature, 
and  to  palliate  both  pain  and  congestion  in  the  forming  stage  of  various  inflammations, 
as  sore  throat , laryngitis , bronchitis , and  pleurisy.  If  prevented  from  evaporating  it  may 
vesicate  the  skin. 

LINIMENTUM  BELLADONNA,  77.  S,9  Br, — Belladonna  Liniment. 

Liniment  de  belladone , Fr. ; Belladonna -Liniment,  G. 

Preparation. — Camphor,  50  Gm. ; Fluid  Extract  of  Belladonna,  a sufficient  quan- 
tity to  make  1000  Cc.  Dissolve  the  camphor  in  about  200  Cc.  of  the  fluid  extract,  and 
then  add  enough  of  the  latter  to  make  the  product  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 pint  of  the  official  liniment  dissolve  365  grains  of  camphor  in  4 ounces  of 
fluid  extract  of  belladonna-root,  and  add  enough  fluid  extract  to  bring  the  volume  up 
to  16  fluidounces. 

Take  of  belladonna-root,  in  No.  40  powder,  20  ounces ; camphor  1 ounce ; rectified 
spirit  a sufficiency.  Moisten  the  belladonna  with  20  fluidounces  of  spirit,  and  macerate 
in  a closed  vessel  for  three  days ; then  transfer  to  a percolator,  and,  when  the  liquor 
ceases  to  pass,  continue  the  percolation  with  more  of  the  spirit,  allowing  the  liquor  to  drop 
into  a receiver  containing  the  camphor  until  the  product  measures  30  fluidounces. — Br. 

Considering  the  belladonna-root  used  in  both  formulas  to  be  of  equal  efficiency,  the 
second  liniment  is  one-third  weaker. 

Uses.  Belladonna  liniment  is  a convenient  and  efficient  preparation  for  allaying  the 
local  pains  which  belong  to  neuralgia,  rheumatism,  sprains,  eta.  It  is  advantageously 

associated  with  aconite  liniment. 


940 


LINIMENTUM  CALCIS.— CHLOROFORMI. 


LINIMENTUM  CALCIS,  U.  S.,  Lime  Liniment. 

Liniment  of  lime , Carron  oil , E. ; Liniment  calcaire , Savon  calcaire , Fr. ; Kalkliniment,  G. 

Preparation. — Solution  of  Lime,  Linseed  Oil,  each  1 volume.  Mix  them. — U.  S. 

Take  of  solution  of  lime,  olive  oil,  each  2 fluidounces.  Mix  together,  with  agitation. 
—Br. 

A lime  soap  is  formed  by  this  process,  which  keeps  the  excess  of  the  oil  emulsionized 
for  a short  time,  the  two  separating  together  from  the  aqueous  liquid. 

The  French  Codex  directs  the  separation  of  the  soft  saponaceous  mass  resulting  from 
the  agitation  of  9 parts  of  lime-water  with  1 part  of  expressed  oil  of  almonds,  and  its 
preservation  for  use. 

Uses. — This  liniment  is  much  employed  in  the  treatment  of  burns,  both  those  which 
are  recent  and  superficial  and  those  which  involve  the  skin,  in  their  ulcerative  stage. 
It  is  not  only  a protective,  but,  as  an  astringent  of  a special  kind,  it  hastens  the  restora- 
tion of  the  injured  tissues.  It  may  be  used  to  prevent  pitting  in  confluent  small-pox. 
It  is  applied  most  efficiently  on  cloths,  which  should  not  be  allowed  to  get  dry. 

LINIMENTUM  CAMPHORS,  U.  S.,  ^.—Camphor  Liniment. 

Oleum  camphoratum,  P.  Gr. ; Linimentum  camphoratum. — Camphorated  oil,  E. ; Lini- 
ment camphre,  Huile  camphre,  Fr. ; Kampherliniment , G. 

Preparation. — Camphor,  in  coarse  powder,  200  Gm. ; Cotton-seed  oil,  800  Gm. ; 
to  make  1000  Gm.  Introduce  the  camphor  and  the  cotton-seed  oil  into  a suitable  flask, 
and  apply  a gentle  heat,  by  means  of  a water-bath,  loosely  stoppering  the  flask  during 
the  operation.  Agitate  from  time  to  time,  until  the  camphor  is  dissolved. — U.  S. 

To  make  about  1 pint  of  camphor  liniment  dissolve  2 av.  ozs.  of  camphor  in  14? 
fluidounces  of  cotton-seed  oil. 

Take  of  camphor  1 ounce ; olive  oil  4 fluidounces.  Dissolve  the  camphor  in  the  oil. 
— Br.  Dissolve  camphor  1 part  in  olive  oil  9 parts. — F.  Cod.,  P.  G. 

A simple  solution  of  camphor  in  oil,  which  is  best  obtained  by  employing  the  camphor 
as  a fine  powder  or  by  digesting  the  mixture  in  a closed  bottle  at  a moderate  heat. 

Souley’s  carbolized  camphor  liniment  is  made  by  dissolving  pure  carbolic  acid  9 parts 
and  camphor  25  parts  in  absolute  alcohol  9 parts  and  adding  oil  35  parts. 

Uses. — It  is  used  as  an  anodyne  and  discutient  for  sprains,  bruises,  and  glandular 
swellings  and  for  the  relief  of  rheumatic  pains.  It  is  also  serviceable  in  preventing  the 
ill  effects  of  pressure  by  surgical  apparatus  and  by  decubitus. 

LINIMENTUM  CAMPHORS  COMPOSITUM,  Br.— Compound  Lini- 

ment  of  Camphor. 

Liniment  ammoniacal  camphre  anglais,  Fr. ; Ammoniak-  und  Kampher- Liniment,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  camphor  2 \ ounces  ; Oil  of  Lavender,  1 fluidrachm  ; Strong 
Solution  of  Ammonia,  5 fluidounces  ; Rectified  Spirit,  15  fluidounces.  Dissolve  the  cam- 
phor and  oil  of  lavender  in  the  spirit ; then  add  the  solution  of  ammonia  gradually,  shak- 
ing them  together  until  a clear  solution  is  formed. — Br. 

Uses. — The  characteristic  of  this  preparation,  as  distinguished  from  simple  liniment 
of  camphor,  is  that  it  is  rendered  stimulant,  and  even  rubefacient,  by  the  strong  water 
of  ammonia  it  contains.  It  is  a convenient  liniment  in  cases  of  local  rheumatic , neural- 
gic, and  traumatic  pains. 

LINIMENTUM  CHLOROFORMI,  U.  S.,  Br.— Chloroform  Liniment. 

Liniment  au  chloroforme , Fr. ; Chloroform- Liniment,  G. 

Preparation. — Chloroform,  300  Cc. ; Soap  Liniment,  700  Cc. ; to  make  1000  Cc. 
Mix  them. — U.  S. 

Take  of  chloroform,  liniment  of  camphor,  each  2 fluidounces.  Mix. — Br. 

Chloroform  1 part,  expressed  oil  of  almond  9 parts. — F.  Cod.  The  preparation  bear- 
ing the  same  name  in  the  three  pharmacopoeias  differs  essentially  in  composition  as  well 
as  in  the  proportion  of  chloroform. 

Uses. — The  purpose  of  this  preparation  was  probably  to  prolong,  and  at  the  same 
time  mitigate,  the  local  anaesthetic  action  of  chloroform.  But  the  object  is  better  accom- 
plished by  a mixture  of  chloroform  and  soap  liniment,  to  which  tincture  of  aconite-root 
may  be  added. 


LINIMENTUM  CR 0 TONIS. -POT A SS II  I0D1DI  CUM  SAPONE. 


941 


LINIMENTUM  CROTONIS,  Br.— Liniment  of  Croton  Oil. 

Liniment  crotone , Fr. ; Krotondl- Liniment,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Croton  Oil  1 flnidounce ; Oil  of  Cajeput,  Rectified  Spirit, 
each  31  fluidounces.  Mix. — Br. 

This  is  simply  a solution  of  croton  oil  in  alcohol  and  oil  of  cajeput,  and  has  the  odor 
of  the  latter. 

Uses. — There  is  an  apparent  incongruity  in  associating  a prompt  but  transient  irritant, 
like  oil  of  cajeput,  with  one  whose  operation  is  slow  and  is  scarcely  active  until  the  cha- 
racteristic croton  pustulation  is  produced.  Possibly,  the  rubefaction  of  the  skin  by  the 
one  oil  was  intended  to  hasten  the  more  permanent  action  of  the  other.  But  the  prepara- 
tion has  little  to  recommend  it  before  an  extemporaneous  solution  of  croton  oil  in  olive 
oil,  with  or  without  the  addition  of  oil  of  cajeput,  cloves,  or  cassia. 

LINIMENTUM  HYDRARGYRI,  Br. — Liniment  of  Mercury. 

Linimentum  mercuriale. — Liniment  mercuriel , Fr.  ; Quecksilber-Lmiment , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Ointment  of  Mercury  1 ounce  ; Solution  of  Ammonia,  Lini- 
ment of  Camphor,  each  1 fluidounce.  Rub  the  ointment  of  mercury  with  one-half  of  the 
liniment  of  camphor ; mix  the  solution  of  ammonia  with  the  other  half ; then  mix  them 
together. — Br. 

This  may  be  prepared  in  a wide-mouthed  vial  if  the  ointment  and  liniment  are  digested 
together  and  frequently  agitated  until  the  lumps  have  disappeared,  when  the  second 
mixture  should  be  added  and  well  incorporated  by  shaking.  The  liniment  has  a gray 
color  from  the  finely-divided  mercury. 

Uses. — The  camphor  and  ammonia  in  this  preparation  are  intended  by  their  stimulant 
action  to  promote  the  discutient  and  absorbent  action  of  the  mercury.  As  it  must  be 
applied  with  friction,  there  is  great  danger  of  its  causing  salivation.  It  is  less  efficient 
in  promoting  the  resolution  of  enlarged  and  indurated  glands , etc.,  than  are  mercurial 
ointments  and  plasters,  especially  those  containing  the  iodides  of  mercury. 

LINIMENTUM  IODI,  Br. — Liniment  of  Iodine. 

Liniment  iodure , Fr. ; Jodliniment , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Iodine  I?  ounces;  Potassium  Iodide,  \ ounce;  Glycerin,  I 
ounce ; Rectified  Spirit,  10  fluidounces.  Dissolve  the  iodine,  potassium  iodide,  and 
glycerin  in  the  spirit. — Br. 

This  is  much  stronger  than  the  Tinctura  iodi,  from  which  it  also  differs  in  containing 
about  21  per  cent  of  glycerin.  The  potassium  iodide  adapts  the  liniment  for  use  with  a 
small  quantity  of  aqueous  liquids  by  preventing  the  precipitation  of  the  iodine. 

Uses. — As  it  is  probable  that  a very  minute  proportion,  if  any,  either  of  iodine  or  of 
potassium  iodide  is  absorbed  by  the  sound  skin,  it  must  be  concluded  that  this  liniment 
will  be  less  efficient  as  a local  application  than  either  the  simple  or  compound  iodine  oint- 
ment, in  both  of  which  the  active  ingredients  are  kept  longer  in  contact  with  the  integu- 
ment than  they  can  be  in  a liniment. 

LINIMENTUM  OPR,  Br, — Liniment  of  Opium. 

Anodyne  liniment , E. ; Liniment  opiace , Fr. ; Opiumliniment , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Tincture  of  Opium,  Soap  Liniment,  each  2 fluidounces. 
Mix. — Br. 

The  liniment  savonneux  opiace  of  the  French  Codex  was  made  by  triturating  5 parts  of 
powdered  soap  with  90  parts  of  expressed  oil  of  almonds,  and  adding  5 parts  of  tincture 
of  opium  ; it  must  be  well  agitated. 

Uses. — Being  merely  a mixture  of  laudanum  and  soap  liniment,  its  fixed  proportions 
are  rather  embarrassing  than  convenient.  The  quantity  of  laudanum  used  should  vary 
with  the  condition  of  the  affected  part  as  to  delicacy,  the  degree  of  pain,  etc. 

LINIMENTUM  POTASSH  IODIDI  CUM  SAPONE,  Br,—  Liniment  of 
Potassium  Iodide  and  Soap. 

Liniment  savonneux  iodure , Fr. ; Jodkalium-Seifenliniment , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Curd  Soap,  cut  small,  2 ounces  (16  parts)  ; Potassium 
Iodide,  l\  ounces  (12  parts);  Glycerin,  1 fluidounce  (8  fluid  parts);  Oil  of  Lemon,  1 


942 


LINIMENT  UM  S4  PON  IS. 


fluidrachm  (1  fluid  part);  Distilled  Water,  10  fluidounces  (80  fluid  parts).  Deduce  the 
soap  to  fine  shreds,  and  mix  this  with  the  water  and  glycerin  in  a porcelain  dish  over  the 
water-bath.  When  the  soap  is  dissolved  pour  the  liquid  into  a mortar  in  which  the  potas- 
sium iodide  has  previously  been  powdered.  Mix  briskly,  and  continue  the  trituration 
until  the  mixture  is  cold.  Set  aside  for  an  hour ; then  rub  well  the  oil  of  lemon  into  the 
cream-like  product. — Br. 

Uses. — This  liniment  is  even  more  objectionable  than  liniment  of  iodine,  since  it  con- 
tains only  the  iodic  salt,  and  no  iodine,  as  the  latter  preparation  does.  The  clinical  evi- 
dence of  any  real  benefit  being  derived  from  it  through  its  potassium  iodide  has  never 
been  furnished.  If  cutaneous  absorption  of  the  potassium  iodide  be  desired,  it  will  be 
secured  much  more  readily  by  the  prolonged  application  of  compresses  saturated  with 
strong  solution  of  the  iodide  and  their  protection  by  a waterproof  covering. 

LINIMENTUM  SAPONIS,  TJ.  S.,  Br.— Soap  Liniment. 

Linimentum  saponato-camphoratum  liquidum , P.  G. — Spiritus  nervinus  camphor atas ; 
Liquid  opodeldoc , E.  ; Liniment  savonneux  camphre,  Fr.  ; Fliissiger  Opodeldok , Gr. 

Preparation. — Soap,  in  fine  powder,  70  Gm. ; Camphor,  in  small  pieces,  45  Gm. ; 
Oil  of  Rosemary,  10  Cc. ; Alcohol,  750  Cc.  ; Water,  a sufficient  quantity,  to  make  1000 
Cc.  Introduce  the  camphor  and  the  alcohol  into  a graduated  bottle,  and  shake  this 
until  the  camphor  is  dissolved.  Then  add  the  soap  and  oil  of  rosemary,  and  shake  the 
bottle  well  for  a few  minutes.  Lastly,  add  enough  water  to  make  1000  Cc.,  and  agitate 
until  a clear  liquid  results.  Set  the  bottle  aside,  in  a cool  place,  for  twenty-four  hours, 
then  filter. — TJ.  S. 

To  prepare  2 pints  of  soap  liniment  will  require  soap,  in  fine  powder  1022  grains,  cam- 
phor 663  grains,  oil  of  rosemary  154  minims,  alcohol  24  fluidounces,  and  finally  enough 
water  to  make  the  solution  measure  32  fluidounces. 

The  present  formula  is  an  improvement  over  that  of  1880,  and  the  liniment  will  keep 
better,  because  a larger  proportion  of  water  is  present ; the  amount  of  soap  now  used 
will  be  uniform,  as  it  is  ordered  in  fine  powder  and  must  therefore  be  dry. 

Take  of  hard  soap,  in  fine  shavings,  2 ounces  ; camphor  1 ounce ; oil  of  rosemary  3 
fluidrachms  ; rectified  spirit  16  fluidounces  ; distilled  water  4 fluidounces.  Mix  the  water 
with  the  spirit,  and  add  the  oil  of  rosemary,  the  soap,  and  the  camphor.  Macerate  for 
seven  days  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  70°  F.,  with  occasional  agitation,  and  filter. 
—Br. 

Both  Pharmacopoeias  use  soap  made  with  olive  oil  and  soda,  which  is  more  soluble  in 
the  alcohol  than  soap  made  with  animal  fat,  but  the  Br.  omits  to  state  whether  or  not 
the  soap  is  to  be  dried  before  being  weighed.  If  white  Castile  soap  is  used,  the  liniment 
will  have  a pale-yellowish  color,  and  is  at  once  ready  for  use,  but  if  mottled  soap  is 
employed  the  preparation  will  be  turbid,  and  should  be  filtered,  when  it  will  have  a 
brownish  color,  due  to  the  iron  held  in  solution.  Barckhausen  (1872)  suggested  the  use 
of  a potassa  soap  made  of  rape-seed  oil,  which  has  the  advantage  of  not  separating  from 
the  alcohol  even  at  the  freezing  temperature  ; and  a soap  made  from  castor  oil  has  been 
suggested  by  C.  H.  Clark  and  L.  E.  Sayre  in  1872.  To  accomplish  the  same  result,  the 
German  Pharmacopoeia  uses  a potassa  soap  of  olive  oil. 

Allied  Preparations. — Linimentum  saponato-camphoratum,  s.  Balsamum  opodeldoc. — Opo- 
deldoc, Steer’s  opodeldoc,  E. ; Baume  opodeldoch,  Baume  de  savon,  Fr. ; Opodeldok,  G. — Digest, 
in  a suitable  vessel,  of  tallow  soap  30  parts,  camphor  24  parts,  and  90  per  cent,  alcohol  250  parts ; 
when  dissolved  add  oil  of  thyme  2 parts,  oil  of  rosemary  6 parts ; agitate  with  10  parts  of  ani- 
mal charcoal,  add  ammonia-water  10  parts ; filter  rapidly  by  means  of  a well-covered  funnel,  col- 
lect the  filtrate  in  suitable  wide-mouthed  vials,  and  allow  it  to  congeal. — F.  Cod. 

The  German  Pharmacopoeia  uses  soap  8 parts,  camphor  2 parts,  alcohol  84  parts  ; the  warm 
solution  is  filtered ; then  it  adds  oil  of  thyme  0.4  part,  oil  of  rosemary  0.6  part,  and  ammonia- 
water  5 parts.  The  liniment  is  solid  at  the  ordinary  temperature,  but  readily  liquefies  at  the 
temperature  of  the  body,  and  is  white  or  yellowish,  opalescent,  and  somewhat  translucent. 

Action  and  Uses. — An  anodyne  and  discutient  preparation,  used  for  the  same 
purposes  as  camphor  liniment,  but  more  efficient  because  more  stimulant  than  that 
preparation.  The  opodeldoc  balsam , the  liniment,  and  the  spirit  (P.  G.)  are  more  stim- 
ulant than  the  official  preparation. 


LINIMENTUM  SAPONIS  M OLLIS.— TEREB IN THIN JE. 


943 


LINIMENTUM  SAPONIS  MOLLIS,  77.  Liniment  of  Soft  Soap. 

Tinctura  saponis  viridis , U.  S.  1880.  Spiritus  saponis  Jcalinus  Hebra. — Teincture  de 
savon  vert,  Fr. ; Hebra1  s Seifenspiritus , G. 

Preparation. — Soft  Soap,  650  Gm. ; Oil  of  Lavender,  20  Cc.  ; Alcohol,  300  Cc. ; 
Water,  a sufficient  quantity,  to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  oil  of  lavender  with  the 
alcohol,  dissolve  in  this  the  soft  soap  by  stirring  or  agitation,  and  set  the  solution  aside 
for  twenty-four  hours.  Then  filter  it  through  paper,  and  pass  enough  water  through  the 
filter  to  make  the  product  measure  1000  Cc. — 17.  S. 

To  make  1 pint  of  liniment  of  soft  soap  will  require  soft  soap  10f  av.  ounces,  oil  of 
lavender  3 fluidrachms,  alcohol  4f  fluidounces,  and  water  enough  to  make  the  solution 
measure  16  fluidounces. 

Uses. — This  solution  of  green  soap  is  more  convenient  than  the  soap  itself,  because 
its  smell  is  not  offensive  and  because  it  is  free  from  the  gritty  particles  often  contained  in 
the  soap.  It  is  used  chiefly  in  the  treatment  of  psoriasis,  lichen,  eczema,  and  prurigo. 

LINIMENTUM  SINAPIS  COMPOSITUM,  77.  S.,  Br.— Compound  Lini- 
ment of  Mustard. 

Liniment  sinapise  compose , Fr.  ; Zusammengesetztes  SenJUniment,  G. 

Preparation. — -Volatile  Oil  of  Mustard,  30  Cc. ; Fluid  Extract  of  Mezereum  200 
Cc. ; Camphor  60  Gm. ; Castor  Oil  150  Cc.  ; Alcohol  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000 
Cc.  Dissolve  the  camphor  in  500  Cc.  of  alcohol ; then  add  the  fluid  extract  of  meze- 
reum, the  oil  of  mustard,  and  the  castor  oil,  and  finally  enough  alcohol  to  make  the 
product  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  B. 

To  make  8 fluidounces  220  grains  of  camphor  should  be  dissolved  in  4 fluidounces  of 
alcohol,  then  add  13  fluidrachms  of  fluid  extract  of  mezereum,  115  minims  of  volatile 
oil  of  mustard,  9|  fluidrachms  of  castor  oil,  and  finally  enough  alcohol  to  bring  the 
volume  of  the  solution  up  to  8 fluidounces. 

Take  of  oil  of  mustard  1 fluidrachm  ; ethereal  extract  of  mezereon  40  grains  ; camphor 
120  grains  ; castor  oil  5 fluidrachms  ; rectified  spirit  4 fluidounces.  Dissolve  the  extract 
of  mezereon  and  camphor  in  the  spirit,  and  add  the  oil  of  mustard  and  castor  oil. — Br. 

The  solution  is  readily  effected  by  agitation  in  a vial. 

Action  and  Uses. — It  was  doubtless  intended  in  this  compound  to  provide  a 
powerful  counter-irritant  and  revulsive,  and  it  is  described  as  a useful  embrocation.  We 
should  hesitate  to  employ  it  without  feeling  more  assured  than  at  present  of  its  being 
safe.  The  sores  made  by  mezereon  or  by  mustard  are  very  intractable.  Moreover,  if 
the  oil  of  mustard  is  in  such  proportion  as  to  produce  its  proper  effect,  it  will  do  so  long 
before  the  mezereon  has  begun  to  act.  Hence  one  or  the  other  ingredient  of  the  lini- 
ment would  seem  to  be  superfluous. 

LINIMENTUM  TEREBINTHINiE,  77 • S.,  Br. — Turpentine  Liniment. 

Linimentum  terebinthinatum,  P.  G. — Liniment  terebenthine,  Fr. ; Terpentinlinimenf , G. 
Preparation. — Kesin  Cerate  650  Gm.  ; Oil  of  Turpentine  350  Gm.;  to  make  1000 
Gm.  Add  the  oil  to  the  cerate,  previously  melted,  and  mix  them  thoroughly. — U.  S. 

To  make  about  1 pint  of  this  liniment  it  will  require  lOf  av.  ozs.  of  resin  cerate  and  6£ 
fluidounces  of  oil  of  turpentine. 

Take  of  soft  soap  2 ounces;  camphor  1 ounce;  oil  of  turpentine  16  fluidounces.  Dis- 
solve the  camphor  in  the  oil  of  turpentine;  mix  the  soap  with  2 fluidounces  of  water; 
then  rub  these  fluids  together  until  they  are  thoroughly  mixed. — Br. 

Oleol  of  chamomile,  oil  of  turpentine,  equal  parts. — F.  Cod. 

The  first  formula  yields  what  is  known  as  Kentish  liniment ; the  cerate  should  be  melted 
at  a low  heat,  and  then  the  oil  gradually  added,  with  continued  stirring.  The  second 
process  is  a considerable  modification  of  the  former,  and  requires  continued  trituration  of 
the  soap  in  a mortar,  with  the  gradual  addition  of  the  oil.  in  order  to  obtain  a uniform 
mass.  The  liniment  of  the  French  Pharmacopoeia  differs  from  the  foregoing. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  preparation  was  originally  employed  in  the  treatment  of 
burns  and  scalds,  which  it  protects  from  the  irritating  influence  of  the  air,  while  it  main- 
tains a moderate  stimulation  which  tends  to  prevent  the  ulterior  effects  of  those  injuries 
in  which  the  vitality  of  the  tissues  is  more  or  less  impaired.  It  is  essential  for  its.  suc- 
cessful use  that  the  primary  dressing  should  not  be  removed  for  twenty-four  hours,  and 


944 


LINIMENTUM  TEREBIN THINJE  A CETICUM.—LINTE UM. 


that  the  liniment  should  not  he  continued  longer  than  is  necessary  to  establish  a healthy 
action  in  the  part.  This  preparation  is  also  serviceable  in  superficial  erysipelas  or  cry-  1 
thema  arising  from  traumatic  causes,  and  in  frost-bite  without  active  inflammatory  phe- 
nomena. 

LINIMENTUM  TEREBINTHINiE  ACETICUM,  Br.— Liniment  of 

Turpentine  and  Acetic  Acid. 

Liniment  terebenthine  acetique , Fr.  ; Terpenthin-  und  Essig- Liniment,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Oil  of  Turpentine  4 fluidounces  (4  fluid  parts)  ; Glacial  Acetic  \ 
Acid  1 ounce  (1  part)  ; Liniment  of  Camphor  4 fluidounces  (4  fluid  parts).  Mix. — Br. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  preparation  is  essentially  “ St.  John  Long’s  liniment,” 
which  name  it  derived  from  a quack  who  professed  to  cure  almost  every  painful  local 
disease  by  its  application.  It  is  particularly  efficient  in  neuralgia  when  applied  over  the 
points  of  exit  of  the  trunks  or  the  terminal  distribution  of  the  affected  nerves.  It  should 
then  be  employed  so  as  to  vesicate  the  part  superficially  and  over  a small  area.  It  may 
also  be  applied  to  relieve  other  local  pains  and  inflammations,  such  as  limited  muscular 
rheumatism , and  to  the  epigastrium  to  allay  vomiting  depending  on  inflammation  of  the 
stomach. 

LINTEUM.— Lint. 

Linteum  carptum. — Char  pie,  Fr.,  G. 

Preparation  and  Description. — Lint  was  originally  made  from  bleached  linen 
cloth  by  scraping  it  until  it  became  soft  and  woolly.  At  the  present  time  it  is  almost 
exclusively  prepared  by  means  of  machinery  from  a fabric  woven  for  this  purpose,  and 
is  known  as  patent  lint  in  distinction  to  the  hand-made  lint.  It  is  in  rather  thick  but  very 
soft  and  fleecy  sheets,  and  when  viewed  under  the  microscope  shows  the  bast-cells  of  flax  ] 
as  long  cylindrical  tubes,  which  are  slightly  thickened  in  a few  places  and  somewhat 
pointed  toward  both  ends.  The  cell-walls  are  very  thick  by  concentric  deposits,  leaving 
only  a small  central  cavity.  Immersed  in  an  ammoniacal  solution  of  copper,  they  swell  i 
considerably,  and  are  ultimately  dissolved  without  leaving  any  residue.  These  cells 
resemble  the  bast-fibres  of  hemp,  but  the  latter  are  thinner,  blunt  at  the  ends,  with  a still 
smaller  cavity  in  the  centre,  and  adhere  more  firmly  together,  hence  the  coarser  appear- 
ance of  hemp  fabrics. 

Cotton  is  now  often  more  or  less  substituted  for  linen,  and  lint  made  in  this  way  is 
known  as  cotton  lint.  The  fibre  of  cotton  is  described  on  page  *79 1,  and  may  be  readily  ! 

distinguished  from  linen  fibre  by  the  microscope. 

Tests  for  Linen  and  Cotton. — Boiled  with  a concentrated  solution  of  potassa, 
the  linen  fibre  turns  bright  yellow  within  2 minutes,  while  cotton  fibre  remains  white  or  .j 
becomes  pale-yellowish.  Dipped  in  a solution  of  rosolic  acid , which  is  known  in  com-  jj 
merce  as  aurin  or  yellow  corallin,  and  afterward  in  a concentrated  solution  of  sodium 
carbonate,  linen  fibre  is  dyed  rose-red,  while  cotton  fibre  remains  white.  When  immersed 
in  a tincture  of  madder , linen  fibre  acquires  a yellowish-red,  but  cotton  fibre  a light-yellow, 
color.  Cold  concentrated  sulphuric  acid  does  not  materially  alter  linen  fibre  within  1 or 
2 minutes,  while  cotton  fibre  is  destroyed  in  the  same  time.  When  rubbed  with  a fixed 
oil , linen  fabric  remains  white  and  opaque,  but  cotton  becomes  translucent. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  purpose  of  lint  is  to  provide  a soft  and  unirritating 
covering  for  wounds ; to  protect  them  from  the  air  and  the  foreign  particles  floating  in 
it ; to  moderate  and  graduate  the  pressure  of  bandages  and  other  surgical  apparatus  ; to 
absorb  the  more  liquid  discharges,  and  to  be  introduced  into  wounds  which  are  not  in- 
tended to  heal  immediately.  Of  the  different  forms  of  lint,  that  which  is  made  of  old 
linen  by  picking  apart  its  threads  is  the  most  elastic  and  absorbent,  and  by  far  the  most 
comfortable  to  the  patient ; that  which  is  made  by  scraping  old  linen  is  very  suitable  for 
small  wounds  and  abrasions ; and  the  so-called  patent  lint  is  the  least  eligible  unless  its 
threads  are  unravelled  so  as  to  form  a soft  mass.  But  the  last-mentioned  lint,  when 
made  of  cotton,  as  it  usually  is,  does  not  absorb  discharges  nearly  as  well  as  that  derived 
from  linen,  chiefly  on  account  of  the  oil  which  adheres  to  it.  Of  late  years  cotton  lint 
has  been  prepared  entirely  free  from  oil,  and  therefore  possessing  a greater  absorbent 
power,  and  is  at  the  same  time  impregnated  with  carbolic  acid,  so  as  to  render  it  disin- 
fectant. But  a defect  of  all  cotton  lint  is,  that  as  soon  as  it  becomes  saturated  with 
liquids  it  entirely  loses  its  elasticity,  which  is  not  the  case  with  old  linen  lint  or  charpie. 


LINUM.— LINI  FARINA. 


945 


A substance  analogous  to  charpie  is  oakum,  which  consists  of  tarred  ropes  picked  into 
shreds.  Its  value,  derived  from  the  tar  impregnating  it  and  the  greater  looseness  of  its 
texture,  is  counterbalanced  by  the  harshness  of  the  material.  It  was  first  suggested  by 
Surgeon  Ruschenberger,  U.  S.  N.,  in  1862.  Several  kinds  of  wood-fibre  have  been  con- 
verted into  a spongy  tissue  known  as  wood-wool  or  wood-cloth,  and  which  is  very  ab- 
sorbent. It  is  sometimes  impregnated  with  corrosive  sublimate  or  other  antiseptic 
solution.  Peat-moss  and  Spanish  moss  have  been  similarly  applied. 

LINUM,  U.  8.— Flaxseed. 

Lint  semina , Br. ; Semen  Lini,  P.  G. — Linseed,  E. ; Semence  ( Graine ) de  lin,  Fr. ; 
Leinsamen , Flachssamen , Gr. ; Linaza , Sp. 

The  seed  of  Linum  usitatissimum,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 39. 

Nat  Ord. — Linaceae. 

LINI  FARINA,  Br. — Flaxseed  Meal. 

Linseed  meal , E. ; Farine  de  I'm,  Fr. ; Leinsamenmehl , Leinmehl , Gr. ; Polvo  ( Hai'ina ) de 
linaza , Sp. 

Origin. — Flax  is  probably  indigenous  to  the  Mediterranean  basin,  but  has  been  cul- 
tivated for  a long  period,  and  grows  so  spontaneously  wherever  it  has  been  introduced, 
that  it  is  difficult  to  determine  its  native  country.  It  has 
an  annual  stem  about  60  Cm.  (2  feet)  high,  alternate  lin- 
ear-lanceolate leaves,  and  terminal  flowers  with  five  ovate, 
pointed  and  three-nerved  sepals  and  five  fugacious  blue- 
veined  and  short-clawed  petals.  The  fruit  is  an  ovate  five- 
celled  and  ten-seeded  capsule,  each  cell  being  again  im- 
perfectly divided.  As  cultivated  in  the  various  tropical 
and  temperate  countries,  several  varieties  have  been  ob- 
served, differing  in  the  shape  and  size  of  the  seeds  and 
more  markedly  in  other  characters.  The  seeds  are  princi- 
pally imported  from  Russia  and  Germany.  (See  Oleum 
Lini). 

Description. — Flaxseed  is  4-6  Mm.  (i  to  I inch) 
long,  oblong-ovate,  considerably  flattened,  but  the  sides 
convex  and  the  edges  obtuse,  rounded  below  and  oblique 
at  the  apex,  beneath  which  the  hilum  is  located  in  a slight  depression.  The  testa  is  of  a 
yellowish-brown  color,  glossy,  and  covered  with  a transparent  epithelium,  which  swells 
very  considerably  in  water ; the  kernel  consists  of  a very  thin  endosperm  and  two  large 
plano-convex  oily  greenish  or  yellowish  cotyledons  having  the  shape  of  the  seed,  with 
the  radicle  projecting  into  the  pointed  end.  The  brown  coloring  matter  is  contained  in 
the  inner  cell-row  of  the  testa ; the  albumen  and  cotyledons  are  composed  of  thin-walled 
parenchyma,  the  cells  being  filled  with  proteids  and  oil,  but  are  free  from  starch.  The 
seed  is  inodorous,  and  has  a mucilaginous,  bitterish,  and  oily  taste. 

Placenta:  seminis  lini,  P.  G.,  are  the  press-cakes  obtained  in  preparing  linseed  oil, 
and  on  grinding  yield  the  so-called  cake  meal.  These  press-cakes  are  of  a dingy-gray 
color,  and  their  powder  shows  under  the  microscope  fragments  of  the  brown-yellow  testa 
of  linseed,  but  none  of  the  blackish-brown  testa  of  rape-seed,  and  yields  with  boiling 
water  and  on  filtering  an  insipid  mucilaginous  liquid,  which  when  cold  is  not  colored  blue 
by  iodine.  But  cake  meal  is  not  recognized  by  the  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia,  which  requires 
that  Aground  linseed,  for  medicinal  purposes,  should  be  recently  prepared,  free  from 
unpleasant  or  rancid  odor,  and,  when  extracted  with  carbon  disulphide,  should  yield  not 
less  than  25  per  cent,  of  fixed  oil.”  The  Br.  P.  and  F.  Cod.  likewise  order  the  ground 
seeds. 

Constituents. — The  most  important  constituents  of  flaxseed  are  the  mucilage  and 
fixed  oil , the  latter1  (see  Oleum  Lini),  according  to  Chevallier  (1844),  being  contained  in 
the  embryo  to  the  extent  of  about  30  to  37  per  cent.,  the  former  in  the  epithelium  to  the 
extent  of  about  15  per  cent.  The  mucilage  is  C12H20O]0,  and  by  nitric  acid  is  converted 
into  mucic  acid.  Besides  the  above,  Leo  Meyer  (1826)  found  protein  compounds,  a small 
portion  of  wax,  resin,  sugar,  malates,  acetates,  and  other  salts,  which  are  dissolved  with 
the  mucilage.  The  ash  amounts  to  about  3 per  cent.,  and  consists  of  phosphates,  with 
some  sulphates  and  chlorides  of  potassium,  calcium  and  magnesium. 


Fig.  173. 


Flaxseed,  magnif.  a diam.,  and  trans- 
verse section  near  edge,  magnif.  65 
diam. 


946 


LIQUIDAMBAR. 


Action  and.  Uses. — The  union  of  oil  and  mucilage  in  flaxseed  adapts  it  for  exter- 
nal application  in  the  many  cases  in  which  an  emollient  is  required,  and  the  ready 
absorption  of  at  least  the  water  in  its  infusion  has  led  to  its  internal  use  as  a diluent 
and  diuretic.  Flaxseed  tea  is  universally  employed  in  inflammations  of  the  mucous 
membranes  of  the  respiratory , digestive , and  urinary  organs.  It  serves  as  the  basis  of 
numerous  ptisans,  and  is  injected  into  the  rectum,  vagina,  and  bladder  in  irritations  of 
those  organs.  It  forms  an  ordinary  drink  in  renal  and  vesical  irritations.  The  tea  is 
made  with  i an  ounce  of  flaxseed  to  a pint  of  boiling  water,  macerated  for  two  hours  and 
strained.  It  may  be  taken  in  any  convenient  quantity.  The  compound  infusion 
(U.  S.  P.  1870)  contains  liquorice,  which  adapts  it  to  bronchial  affections.  Flaxseed 
mucilage  is  prepared  by  boiling  the  seed.  It  is  commonly  used  to  cover  erysipelatous 
and  other  inflammations  of  the  skin,  burns , etc.,  but  is  objectionable  if  allowed  to  get 
dry,  by  rendering  the  skin  stiff ; it  is  also  apt  to  become  sour  and  irritating.  For  the 
purposes  last  mentioned  lead  acetate  is  sometimes  dissolved  in  it.  It  precipitates  the 
solution  of  lead  subacetate. 

The  flaxseed  poultice  is  prepared  by  gradually  pouring  boiling  water  upon  flaxseed 
meal  and  stirring  the  mixture  until  it  acquires  the  proper  consistence.  As  it  tends  to 
render  the  skin  white,  wrinkled,  and  sodden,  and  to  excite  a pustular  eruption,  the  part 
to  which  it  is  applied  should  first  be  covered  with  sweet  oil,  fresh  lard,  or  glycerin  ; or, 
as  directed  officially  (British  Pharmacopoeia),  olive  oil  should  be  mixed  with  the  meal 
of  which  the  poultice  is  made.  Wherever  applied,  it  should  be  kept  in  close  contact 
with  the  skin.  It  may  be  medicated  by  the  addition  of  narcotic  tinctures  or  watery 
solutions,  of  astringents,  stimulants,  etc. 

LIQUIDAMBAR. — Sweet  Gum. 

A balsamic  exudation  from  Liquidambar  styraciflua,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Hamamelaceae,  Balsamifluae. 

Origin. — The  sweet-gum  tree,  also  called  bilsted  and  copalm , is  a handsome  North 
American  tree,  from  12-18  M.  (40  to  60  feet)  high,  growing  from  Connecticut  and 
Illinois  southward  to  Florida  and  westward  to  Mexico.  It  has  a reddish,  fine-grained, 
and  compact  wood,  and  a thick  gray  deeply-furrowed  astringent  bark,  that  of  the  branches 
being  usually  furnished  with  thick  wing-like  ridges  of  cork.  The  leaves  are  dark -green, 
round  in  outline,  palmately  five-  to  seven-lobed,  and  the  lobes  serrate.  The  fruit  is  cap- 
sular, beaked,  aggregated  in  globular  heads,  together  with  the  indurated  scales.  The 
leaves,  fruit,  and  bark  when  bruised  have  an  agreeable  odor ; the  taste  of  the  bark  is 
balsamic  and  astringent,  and  that  of  the  other  parts  mentioned  aromatic  and  acidulous. 
In  its  southern  locations  the  tree  yields  a balsamic  exudation  from  incisions  made  in  the 
bark. 

Description. — Sweet  gum,  also  called,  gum  wax  ( Balsamo  de  liquidambar , Sp.),  ex- 
udes in  the  form  of  a thick  liquid  having  the  density  of  syrup  and  a yellowish  color.  On 
standing  it  thickens,  becomes  darker  in  color,  and  finally  hard  at  the  ordinary  tempera- 
ture, and  breaks  with  a resinous  fracture,  which  is  of  a variegated  appearance,  the  color 
being  brown,  with  lighter  (and  even  white)  spots  and  streaks.  It  softens  somewhat  by 
the  warmth  of  the  hand,  and  when  heated  fuses  to  a yellowish-brown  liquid.  It  has  a 
very  pleasant  balsamic  odor  and  taste,  the  latter  being  followed  by  pungency.  It  dis- 
solves completely,  fragments  of  bark  excepted,  in  alcohol,  ether,  and  chloroform,  the 
alcoholic  solution  having  a slight  acid  reaction. 

Constituents. — A pretty  complete  analysis  of  sweet  gum  was  made  by  William  L. 
Har  rison  (1874).  He  obtained,  by  distillation  with  a solution  of  sodium  carbonate  in 
water,  3J  per  cent,  of  an  aromatic  oily  hydrocarbon,  having  the  properties  of  styrene,  but 
which  was  found  by  Fliickiger  to  be  not  converted  into  inetastyrene ; the  aqueous  liquor 
in  the  retort,  on  being  supersaturated  with  acid,  yielded  5J  per  cent,  of  cinnamic  add. 
The  portion  insoluble  in  the  alkaline  liquor  was  partly  dissolved  in  hot  petroleum  benzin, 
the  solution  yielding  styracin  on  cooling,  and  finally  left  a dark -brown  nearly  tasteless 
and  inodorous  resin.  The  sweet  gum  examined  contained  9 per  cent/of  impurities.  On 
treating  sweet  gum  with  warm  petroleum  benzin,  cinnamic  acid  and  styracin  are  taken 
up,  and  crystallize  together  on  cooling ; they  may  then  be  separated  with  weak  ammonia, 
which  dissolves  the  cinnamic  acid  only.  Harrison  observed  also  that  by  heating  sweet 
gum  with  a small  quantity  of  water  and  stirring  frequently  a gray-colored  mixture  is 
obtained  resembling  storax.  The  presence  of  cinnamic  acid  in  sweet  gum  was  previously 
proved  by  Hanbury  (1857)  and  Procter  (1866).  It  will  be  observed  that  sweet  gum 


LIQUORES.— LIQUOR  ACID  I ARSENOSI.  947 

agrees  in  composition  with  storax,  which  in  addition  contains  water  mechanically  mixed 
with  it. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — A syrup  of  sweet  gum  is  made  by  the  official  process  for 
syrup  of  tolu,  and  is  much  employed  in  some  parts  of  the  Southern  States.  A syrup  of 
siceet-gum  bark  is  likewise  used  and  prepared  by  the  official  process  for  syrup  of  wild 
cherry  (Dr.  C.  W.  Wright,  1856).  According  to  L.  Hughes  (1876),  an  ethereal  solution 
of  sweet  gum  is  very  serviceable  for  extinguishing  the  mercury  in  preparing  mercurial 
ointment. 

Action  and  Uses. — These  appear  to  be  identical  with  those  of  storax  ; and  indeed 
the  latter  is  defined  by  the  United  States  Pharmacopoeia  to  be  “ a balsam  prepared  from 
the  inner  bark  of  Liquidambar  orientalis.”  Its  action  is  that  of  an  aromatic  resin,  ope- 
rating particularly  upon  the  respiratory  and  urinary  mucous  membranes.  It  is  employed 
in  the  treatment  of  chronic  profluvia  of  these  parts^uch  as  bronchitis , cystitis,  pyelitis, 
and  gleet.  Externally,  it  was  used  formerly  in  an  ointment  for  the  treatment  of  scabies 
(as  storax  now  is),  and  for  various  purposes  to  which  resin  cerate  is  applied,  including 
frost-bite,  indolent  ulcers,  and  burns.  A decoction,  and  also  a syrup  prepared  from  the 
bark,  are  said  to  be  employed  in  the  Western  and  Southern  States  in  the  treatment  of 
infantile  diarrhoea  and  dysentery.  The  former  is  sometimes  made  with  milk.  The  bark, 
like  the  leaves,  is  astringent. 


LIQU  ORES . — Solutions. 

Solutes, Fr.  ; Losungen,  G. 

With  the  exception  of  infusions,  decoctions,  and  syrups,  and  of  those  aqueous  liquids 
containing  volatile  oils  or  gases,  all  aqueous  solutions  are,  by  the  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia,* 
designated  Liquor es  ; the  British  and  some  other  pharmacopoeias  embrace  under  the  same 
head  also  aqueous  solutions  <$f  gases.  The  German  Pharmacopoeia  is  inconsistent  in  its 
designation,  lime-water,  chlorine-water,  and  lead-water  being  placed  among  Aquae,  while 
ammonia-water  is  regarded  as  a liquor.  Gutta-percha  solutions  and  blistering  liquids  alone 
have  a menstruum  other  than  water.  Many  saline  solutions  develop  a cryptogamic 
vegetation  altering  the  nature  and  properties  of  the  dissolved  compounds,  this  is  par- 
ticularly the  case  with  phosphates  in  the  presence  of  organic  substances,  through  the 
rapid  growth  of  an  alga,  Hygrocrocis  phosphaticus,  which,  according  to  Jacquemaire 
(1888),  is  prevented  by  the  presence  of  carbon  dioxide  in  excess. 

LIQUOR  ACIDI  ARSENOSI,  XI,  Solution  of  Arsenous  Acid. 

Liquor  arsenici  chloridi,  U.  S.  1870. — Liquor  arsenici  hydrochloricus,  Br. — Solution  of 
arsenic  chloride,  Hydrochloric  solution  of  arsenic , E.  ; Liqueur  arsenicale  liydrochlorique,  Fr.  ; 
Chlorarsenik-Losung,  G. 

Preparation. — Arsenous  Acid,  in  small  pieces,  10  Gm.  ; Diluted  Hydrochloric  Acid  50 
Cc. ; Distilled  Water  a sufficient  quantity,  to  make  1000  Cc.  Boil  the  arsenous  acid  with  the 
hydrochloric  acid  and  250  Cc.  of  distilled  water,  until  solution  has  been  effected.  Filter 
the  liquid,  and  pass  enough  distilled  water  through  the  filter  to  make  the  solution  measure 
1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

To  make  one  pint  of  the  official  solution  of  arsenous  acid,  boil  73  grains  of  arsenous 
acid  and  384  minims  of  diluted  hydrochloric  acid  with  4 ounces  of  distilled  water  until 
dissolved;  filter  and  add  enough  distilled  water  to  make  16  fluidounces. 

Arsenous  acid  in  powder  87  grains:  hydrochloric  acid  2 fluidrachms ; distilled  water 
sufficient  to  make  1 pint  (Imperial). — Br. 

Arsenous  and  hydrochloric  acids,  when  heated  together,  and  then  distilled,  unite  to 
form  volatile  arsenous  chloride , As2C16,  which,  on  being  dissolved  in  water,  is  decomposed 
again  into  the  compounds  from  which  it  was  prepared.  The  official  solutions,  therefore, 
contain  simply  the  two  acids. 

Properties. — The  solution  is  colorless,  has  an  acid  reaction,  and  an  acidulous  taste. 
Hydrogen  sulphide  yields  at  once  a bright-yellow  precipitate  of  arsenic  sulphide.  In 
arsenic  strength  it  corresponds  with  Fowler’s  solution,  containing  1 per  cent,  of  arsenous 
acid,  or  4.56  grains  to  the  fluidounce,  or  4.35  grains  (4  grains,  Br.  1867)  to  the  Imperial 
fluidounce  ; Valangin’s  solution  contained  0.38  per  cent,  of  arsenous  acid,  or  If  grains  to 
1010  UB^°UnCe  P^11^00?06^  solutions  have  the  specific  gravity  1.009  U.  S., 


948 


LIQUOR  AMMONII  ACE  TATIS. 


The  strength  is  determined  as  follows : “ If  24.7  Cc.  of  solution  of  arsenous  acid  be 
boiled  for  a few  minutes  with  2 Gm.  of  sodium  bicarbonate,  the  liquid,  when  cold,  diluted 
with  water  to  100  Cc.  and  mixed  with  a little  starch  test-solution,  it  should  require  from 
49.4  to  50  Cc.  of  decinormal  iodine  volumetric  solution,  until  the  blue  tint  of  iodide  of 
starch  makes  its  appearance  (corresponding  to  1 per  cent,  of  arsenous  acid  of  the  required 
degree  of  purity).” — U.  S.  “ 442  grains  boiled  for  five  minutes  with  20  grains  of  sodium 
bicarbonate,  and  then  diluted  with  6 fluidounces  of  distilled  water,  to  which  a little  muci- 
lage of  starch  has  been  added,  does  not  give  with  the  volumetric  solution  of  iodine  a per- 
manent blue  color  until  875  grain-measurers  have  been  added.” — Br. 

Allied  Preparation. — Liquor  arsenici  bromidi.  Clemens’  formula  (1876),  somewhat  modified 
in  the  manipulation,  is  as  follows  : Mix  1 part  each  of  powdered  arsenous  acid  and  pure  potas- 
sium carbonate,  and  dissolve  in  about  10  parts  of  boiling  water  ; then  add  80  parts  of  water  and 
2 parts  of  bromine,  set  aside  at  a moderate  temperature  until  the  liquid  has  become  colorless,  and 
add  sufficient  water  to  make  the  solution  weigh  100  parts.  It  is  said  to  improve  by  age.  Arsenic 
bromide , AsBr3,  is  crystalline,  melts  near  25°  C.  (77°  F.),  boils  and  volatilizes  without  decompo- 
sition near  220°  C.  (428°  F.),  and  is  decomposed  by  water,  with  the  formation  of  arsenous  and 
hydrobromic  acids.  The  above  solution  probably  contains  potassium  bromide  and  arsenate. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  advantages  of  this  preparation,  which  contains  the  same 
proportion  of  arsenic  as  Fowler’s  solution,  are  far  from  being  apparent.  Indeed,  its 
action  has  been  pronounced  very  uncertain.  It  may  be  given  in  doses  of  from  3 to  5 
drops,  largely  diluted  and  after  meals. 

LIQUOR  AMMONII  ACETATIS,  U.  S ,,  Br. — Solution  of  Ammonium 

Acetate. 

Liquor  ammonite  acetatis , Liquor  ammonii  acetici , P.  G.  ; Acetas  ammonicus  liquidus , 
Spiritus  Mindereri. — Spirit  of  Mindererus , E. ; Acetate  Lammoniaque  liquide , Esprit  de 
Mindererus , Fr.  ; Ammoniumacetat-Losung , Essigsaure  Anw^onium-Lbsung,  G. 

An  aqueous  solution  of  ammonium  acetate,  containing  about  7 per  cent,  of  the  salt, 
together  with  small  amounts  of  acetic  and  carbonic  acids. 

Preparation. — Ammonium  Carbonate,  5 Gm. ; Diluted  Acetic  Acid,  100  Cc.  Add 
the  ammonium  carbonate  (which  should  be  in  translucent  pieces,  free  from  white,  pulve- 
rulent bicarbonate)  gradually  to  the  cold  diluted  acetic  acid,  and  stir  until  it  is  dissolved. 
This  preparation  should  be  freshly  made  when  wanted. — U.  S. 

Each  fluidounce  of  diluted  acetic  acid  U.  S.  P.  would  require  about  23  grains  (22.84) 
of  official  ammonium  carbonate  in  the  preparation  of  spirit  of  Mindererus,  as  directed 
above. 

Strong  solution  of  ammonium  acetate  4 fl.  oz.,  distilled  water  sufficient  for  20  fluid- 
ounces. — Br.  Spec.  grav.  1.022. 

Liquor  ammonii  acetatis  fortior. — Add  crushed  ammonium  carbonate  17  J oz.  gra- 
dually to  45  oz.  of  acetic  acid ; then  add  more  of  the  acid  (about  5 oz.)  until  a neutral 
liquid  results,  and  add  sufficient  water  to  yield  60  fluidounces  of  product.  Preserve  in 
bottles  free  from  lead. — Br.  Spec.  grav.  1.073. 

The  present  official  formula  is  greatly  to  be  preferred  to  former  ones,  a definite  amount 
of  ammonium  acetate  is  assured,  together  with  an  excess  of  acetic  acid ; in  following  the 
pharmacopoeal  directions  the  dispenser  will  be  sure  that  no  excess  of  alkali  can  possibly 
be  present,  which  latter  frequently  happened  heretofore,  when  it  was  impossible  to  ascer- 
tain the  exact  point  of  neutrality  and  the  operator’s  experience  and  sense  of  taste  were 
his  only  guides.  The  100  Cc.  of  diluted  acetic  acid  ordered  in  the  above  formula  contain 
6.048  + Gm.  of  absolute  acetic  acid,  of  which  5.727  4-  Gm.  will  be  required  to  neutra- 
lize the  5 Gm.  of  official  ammonium  carbonate  (consisting  of  ammonium  acid  carbonate 
and  carbamate),  as  may  be  see  from  the  equation,  NH4HC03NH4NH2C02  + 3HC2H302  = 
3NH4C2H302  + H20  + 2C02— 156.77  : 179.58  : : 5 : x,  x = 5.7274  + . 

Solution  of  ammonium  acetate  should  never  be  kept  on  hand  for  dispensing  purposes, 
as  it  absorbs  ammonia  from  the  air,  and  finally  acquires  an  alkaline  reaction. 

Properties. — It  is  a “ clear,  colorless  liquid,  free  from  empyreuma,  of  a mildly  saline 
taste  and  acid  reaction.  It  is  wholly  volatilized  by  heat.  When  heated  with  potassa  it 
evolves  vapors  of  ammonia,  and  when  heated  with  sulphuric  acid  it  gives  out  vapor  ot 
acetic  acid. — U.  S. 

The  British  Pharmacopoeia  directs  the  preparation  of  a neutral  solution  which  is  some- 
what stronger  : the  undiluted  acetic  acid  being  used,  less  carbonic  acid  is  retained  by  the 
liquid,  and  may  be  expelled  by  trituration  or  stirring  at  first,  and  toward  the  close  of  the 


LIQUOR  AM  MO  Nil  CITRA  TIS.—ANTIMONII  CHLORIDI. 


949 


reaction  by  warming  the  liquid  until  it  has  no  effect  upon  test-paper,  after  which  it  is  to 
he  properly  diluted.  In  place  of  ammonium  carbonate,  ammonia-water  may  be  used  to 
effect  the  neutralization,  as  directed  by  the  German  Pharmacopoeia,  which  requires  the 
neutralized  liquid  to  be  heated  to  boiling  for  a short  time,  in  order  to  expel  traces  of 
empyreumatic  matter  likely  to  be  present  in  the  ammonia-water.  The  description  corre- 
sponds with  the  one  given  above,  but  the  solution  is  to  have  the  specific  gravity  1.032- 
1.034,  to  contain  15  per  cent,  of  ammonium  acetate,  and  to  be  not  rendered  turbid  by 
barium  nitrate  (absence  of  sulphate),  nor,  after  acidulation  with  nitric  acid,  by  silver 
nitrate  (absence  of  chloride). 

Action  and  Uses. — It  is  generally  held  to  be  efficient  in  the  forming  stage  of 
catarrh , sore  throat , and  muscular  rheumatism , and  in  the  eruptive  fevers  when  the  eruption 
is  slow  to  appear.  It  is  the  best  diaphoretic  in  epidemic  catarrh  or  influenza.  In  low 
forms  of  fever  it  often  of  signal  advantage,  helping  to  sustain  the  powers  of  life  until 
the  crisis  is  past.  In  this  way  it  is  peculiarly  valuable  in  typhus , in  which,  like  other 
appropriate  stimulants,  it  lowers  the  pulse  and  temperature,  moistens  the  dry  tongue,  and 
moderates  the  delirium.  It  is  reported  to  have  been  peculiarly  efficacious  in  the  treatment 
of  epidemic  pseudo-membranous  bronchitis. 

In  sick  headache  few  remedies  are  so  successful  as  a teaspoonful  or  two  of  this  solution 
repeated  every  hour.  In  alcoholic  intoxication  it  frequently  dissipates  at  once  the  signs 
of  drunkenness.  It  is  reported  to  be  an  efficient  remedy  in  dysmenorrhoea  and  menor- 
rhagia. It  is  an  adjuvant  in  the  treatment  of  scarlatinous  dropsy , and  is  perhaps  not 
without  advantage  in  chronic  eruptions  of  the  skin. 

Externally,  it  is  a valuable  discutient  in  contusions , glandular  swellings , mammary 
engorgements , commencing  abscesses,  hydrarthrosis,  and  even  acute  hydrocele.  It  has  been 
found  beneficial  in  impetigo  capitis. 

The  dose  of  the  official  solution  is  from  Gm.  8-16  (2  to  4 fluidrachms),  diluted  with 
sweetened  water. 

LIQUOR  AMMONII  CITRATIS,  Br. — Solution  of  Citrate  of 

Ammonium. 

Citrate  d' ammoniaque  hquide,  Fr. ; Ammoniumcitrat-Losung,  G. 

Preparation. — Strong  Solution  of  Ammonium  Citrate  5 fl.  oz.;  Distilled  Water 
sufficient  for  20  fluidounces. — Br.  Spec.  grav.  1.062. 

Liquor  ammonii  citratis  fortior. — Neutralize  citric  acid  12  oz.  with  ammonia  11 
fluidounces  or  sufficient,  and  add  distilled  water  sufficient  to  yield  20  fluidounces  of 
product.  Store  in  bottles  free  from  lead. — Br.  Spec.  grav.  1.209. 

Citric  acid  combines  with  ammonia,  forming  ammonium  citrate  and  water.  The  two 
solutions  are  clear  and  colorless,  have  a saline  taste,  and  should  not  change  either  litmus- 
or  turmeric-paper. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  solution  is  perhaps  more  palatable  than  solution  of  am- 
monium acetate,  but  its  medicinal  effects  are  not  perceptibly  different.  Dose,  from  Gm. 
8-16  (2  to  4 fluidrachms). 

LIQUOR  ANTIMONII  CHLORIDI,  Br. — Solution  of  Antimony 

Chloride. 

Liquor  stibii  chlorati , Antitnonium  muriaticum  liquidum,  Butyrum  antimonii  (s.  stibii ), 
Chloridum  ($.  Chloruretum ) stibicum. — Liquid  butter  of  antimony , E. ; Chlorure  ( Beurre ) 
d'  antimoine  liquide , Huile  d'  antimoirie,  Fr.  ; Spiessglanzbutter , G. 

A solution  of  SbCl3  (molecular  weight  225.71)  in  hydrochloric  acid. 

Preparation. — Purified  Black  Antimony  1 pound ; Hydrochloric  Acid  4 pints. 
Llace  the  black  antimony  in  a porcelain  vessel,  pour  upon  it  the  hydrochloric  acid,  and 
constantly  stirring,  apply  to  the  mixture,  beneath  a flue  with  a good  draught,  a gentle 
heat,  which  must  be  gradually  augmented  as  the  evolution  of  gas  begins  to  slacken, 
until  the  liquid  boils.  Maintain  it  at  this  temperature  for  fifteen  minutes ; then  remove 
the  vessel  from  the  fire,  and  filter  the  liquid  through  .calico  into  another  vessel,  returning 
what  passes  through  first,  that  a perfectly  clear  solution  may  be  obtained.  Boil  this 
down  to  the  bulk  of  2 pints  (Imperial),  and  preserve  it  in  a stoppered  bottle. — Br. 

Hydrochloric  acid  decomposes  antimony  sulphide  with  the  product  of  antimonous 
chloride,  which  dissolves  in  the  acid  liquid,  and  hydrogen  sulphide,  which  escapes;  Sb2S3 
+ 6HC1  yields  2SbCl3+3H2S.  Provision  must  be  made  to  carry  off  the  offensive  gas 


950 


LIQUOR  ARSENI  ET  HYDRARGYRI  IODIDI. 


either  through  a flue  or  by  working  in  the  open  air.  The  powdered  sulphide  and  the  acid 
may  be  left  in  contact  for  several  hours,  during  which  time  the  reaction  will  partly  take 
place  ; the  mixture  -should  afterward  be  slowly  heated  until  the  boiling-point  is  reached 
and  the  disengagement  of  hydrogen  sulphide  ceases.  The  insoluble  mineral  impurities 
are  then  filtered  otf,  either  through  calico,  or,  preferably,  through  a material  which  is  not 
corroded  by  the  acid  liquid,  such  as  gun-cotton,  asbestos,  or  glass-wool.  The  arsenic 
naturally  contained  in  the  antimony  is  partly  evolved,  and  the  remainder  is  removed 
as  arsenous  chloride  by  boiling  the  filtered  liquid  and  concentrating  it  as  directed,  this 
arsenic  compound  being  much  more  volatile  than  the  antimonous  chloride.  The  French 
Codex  directs  the  liquid  to  be  concentrated  by  evaporation,  and  the  residue  to  be  dis- 
tilled— an  operation  requiring  great  care  in  case  notable  quantities  of  lead  chloride  be 
present. 

Properties. — It  is  a yellowish  or  yellowish-red  liquid  having  the  spec.  gr.  1.47,  and 
yielding  with  water  a white  precipitate  of  antimonous  oxychloride  ( powder  of  Algarotli), 
2SbCl3.5Sb203.  This  precipitate  is  completely  soluble  in  an  aqueous  solution  of  tartaric 
acid,  and  the  solution,  when  treated  with  hydrogen  sulphide,  yields  an  orange-brown 
precipitate  of  antimony  sulphide,  which,  when  dried  at  100°  C.,  should  weigh  about  22 
grains  for  every  fluidrachm  of  the  official  solution.  When  free  from  other  metals  the 
solution  is  colorless ; as  prepared  from  the  crude  sulphide,  however,  it  always  contains 
ferric  chloride. 

Antimonium  chloride  of  the  French  Codex  is  a soft  white,  translucent,  crystalline,  and 
very  caustic  mass,  which  melts  to  a clear  liquid  at  73°  C.  (163.5°  F.)  and  boils  at  223° 
C.  (433.5°  F.).  On  exposure  to  the  air  it  fumes  and  absorbs  moisture,  deliquescing  to  a 
clear  oily  liquid,  which  is  precipitated  by  more  water.  The  salt  is  soluble  in  cold  alcohol, 
and  this  solution,  when  boiled,  precipitates  antimonous  oxychloride. 

Impurities. — Lead , if  present,  will  mostly  crystallize  from  the  cold  liquid ; what 
remains  dissolved  may  be  recognized  by  a drop  of  dilute  sulphuric  acid,  which  will  cause 
a white  precipitate.  Copper  is  recognized  by  the  blue  color  obtained  on  treating  the 
liquid  with  an  excess  of  ammonia.  Arsenic  is  detected  by  rendering  the  liquid  strongly 
alkaline  with  potassa,  adding  a little  pure  zinc,  and  heating  to  boiling.  The  vapors,  on 
coming  in  contact  with  filtering-paper  moistened  with  a drop  of  solution  of  silver  nitrate, 
will  then  color  the  latter  black. 

Action  and  Uses. — Butter  of  antimony  is  one  of  the  most  powerful  caustics 
employed  in  surgery,  and  from  its  readily  penetrating  into  wounds  has  been  used  to  cauter- 
ize those  inflicted  by  rabid  animals  and  venomous  serpents.  It  has  also  been  applied  to 
malignant  pustule,  warts , condylomata , and  chancres.  “ Pure  chloride  of  antimony  has  been 
used  as  an  application  to  staphyloma  by  some  German  surgeons ; a camel’s-hair  pencil  or 
a point  of  lint  is  dipped  in  the  deliquescent  salt  and  applied  to  the  tumor  until  a whitish 
crust  is  perceived,  when  the  whole  is  washed  away  by  means  of  a large  camel’s-hair  pencil 
dipped  first  in  milk  and  afterward  into  milk  and  water  ” (Neligan). 

Several  instances  of  poisoning  by  this  preparation  are  on  record  in  which,  besides  abra- 
sions of  the  mouth  and  throat,  or  even  a charred  appearance  of  these  parts,  there  was 
more  or  less  complete  general  collapse.  In  one  case  recovery  took  place  after  4 or  5 
drachms,  and  in  another  after  an  ounce  had  been  taken.  In  a fatal  case  the  dose  was  3 
ounces,  and  on  inspection  after  death  the  interior  of  the  alimentary  canal  from  the  mouth 
down  to  the  jejunum  presented  a black  appearance,  as  if  the  parts  had  been  charred 
(Taylor).  . _ # 4 

The  proper  antidotes  for  poisoning  by  chloride  of  antimony  are  chalk  and  magnesia  or 
their  carbonates,  followed  by  demulcent  drinks.  Tannic  acid  and  the  substances  containing 
it  are  also  recommended. 

LIQUOR  ARSENI  ET  HYDRARGYRI  IODIDI,  U.  S.,  Br.— Solution 

of  Arsenic  and  Mercuric  Iodide. 

Solutio  Donovani. — Donovan's  solution , E. ; Solute  d' iodo-arsenite  de  mercure , Liqueur 
de  Donovan , Fr. ; Jodquecksilber-Arsenik-Lbsung , Donovansche  Tropfen , G. 

Preparation. — Arsenic  Iodide  10  Gm. ; Red  Mercuric  Iodide,  10  Gm. ; Distilled 
Water,  a sufficient  quantity,  to  make  1000  Cc.  Triturate  the  iodides  with  150  Cc.  ot 
distilled  water  until  they  are  dissolved.  Filter  the  liquid,  and  pass  enough  distilled  water 
through  the  filter  to  make  the  solution  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

A tiuidounce  of  Donovan's  solution  contains  4.56  grains  each  of  arsenic  iodide  and  red 


LIQUOR  ATROPINJE  SULPHA  TIS.—BISMUTHI  ET  AM  MONTI  CITRATIS.  951 


mercuric  iodide ; the  liquid  should  be  kept  in  a dark  place,  and  should  not  be  dispensed 
if  the  color  has  changed  to  yellowish -red  and  the  odor  of  iodine  become  apparent. 

Iodide  of  arsenium,  mercuric  iodide,  each  45  grains;  distilled  water  sufficient  for  10 
fluidounces  (Imperial). — -Br. 

This  is  a solution  of  the  two  iodides  in  very  nearly  the  proportion  of  their  molecular 
weights,  and  containing  them  mixed,  but  not  chemically  combined.  The  present  prepara- 
tion contains  about  the  same  quantity  of  each  of  the  two  iodides  as  that  of.  1880. 

Properties. — It  is  of  a light-yellow  color,  has  a metallic  taste,  and  gives  precipitates 
with  solutions  of  silver,  alkalies,  and  salts  of  the  alkaloids. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  combination  of  arsenic  and  mercury  in  this  preparation 
was  proposed  for  the  treatment  of  syphilitic  diseases  of  the  skin,  and  was  thought  to  be 
especially  useful  in  those  of  the  squamous  form,  although  mercury  alone  is  apt  to  aggra- 
vate them.  Yet  many  consider  that  in  these  cases  the  compound  is  more  injurious  than 
useful.  The  efficacy  of  Donovan’s  solution  is  shown  in  cutaneous  affections  apparently 
free  from  syphilitic  taint  when  they  have  become  chronic  and  have  resisted  arsenic 
alone.  Among  these  may  be  mentioned  impetigo  and  sycosis  ; in  the  latter  it  should  be 
associated  with  epilation.  The  best  authorities  deny  that  it  has  any  curative  influence  in 
lupus.  The  dose  is  Gm.  0.30  (gtt-v),  gradually  increased  and  taken  after  meals,  well 
diluted. 

LIQUOR  ATROPINE  SULPHATIS,  Hr. — Solution  of  Atropine 

Sulphate. 

Solute  de  sulfate  dl  atropine,  Fr.  ; Schwefelsaure  Atr  opinio  sung,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Atropine  Sulphate  9 grains  (1  part)  ; Camphor-water  16| 
fluidrachms  (99  fluid  parts).  Dissolve. — Br. 

This  solution  is  best  prepared  in  small  quantity  only,  that  decomposition,  which  is  likely 
to  result  from  long  keeping,  may  be  prevented.  Combining  the  atropine  with  benzoic  or 
boracic  acid  does  not,  in  the  experience  of  Tichborne  (1877),  prevent  the  appearance  of 
fungoid  growth,  but  solution  of  atropine  salicylate  made  of  2.7  grains  of  atropine  and  JL3 
grains  of  salicylic  acid  to  1 ounce  of  distilled  water,  was  found  to  keep  indefinitely. 
Camphor-water  prevents  decomposition  better  than  distilled  water. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  preparation  is  identical  with  solution  of  atropine  in  its 
strength,  action,  uses,  dose,  and  mode  of  application.  For  acting  upon  the  iris  disks  of 
paper  or  gelatin  impregnated  with  either  solution  may  be  introduced  between  the  eyelid 
and  the  eyeball. 

LIQUOR  BISMUTHI  ET  AMMONII  CITRATIS,  Hr. — Solution  of 
Bismuth  and  Ammonium  Citrate. 

Liquor  bismuthi. — Solution  of  ammonio-citrate  of  bismuth,  E.  ; Solute  de  citrate  de  bis- 
muth ammoniacal , Fr. ; Wismuth-Ammoniak-Citrat-Losung,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Bismuth  Citrate  800  grains ; Solution  of  Ammonia,  Distilled 
Water,  of  each  a sufficiency.  Bub  the  Bismuth  citrate  to  a paste  with  a little  of  the 
water;  add  the  solution  of  ammonia,  gradually  and  with  stirring,  until  the  salt  is  just 
dissolved.  Dilute  with  distilled  water  to  form  1 pint  (Imperial). — Br. 

In  the  former  edition  of  the  Br.  P.  a concentrated  solution  of  bismuth  nitrate  in  nitric 
acid  was  mixed  with  double  the  quantity  of  citric  acid  theoretically  necessary  for  the 
formation  of  bismuthous  citrate ; and  this  acid  liquid  was  neutralized  with  ammonia. 
Thus  prepared,  the  solution  contained  ammonium  citrate  and  bismuthous  citrate,  or  a 
double  salt  of  these  two  compounds,  and  in  addition  thereto  a notable  quantity  of 
ammonium  nitrate.  N.  G.  Bartlett  (1865),  however,  showed — and  his  observations  were 
corroborated  by  Mehu  (1873)— that  the  neutral  bismuthous  citrate  dissolves  in  ammonia, 
and  that  on  evaporation  a dry  salt  is  obtained  which  is  again  soluble  in  water,  and  for 
which  Bother  (1876)  gives  the  formula  (NH4)3C6H507.Bi30H.  These  observations  have 
ed  to  several  modifications  of  the  former  formula,  by  which  contamination  with  ammonium 
nitrate  is  at  the  same  time  avoided.  These  modifications  are  based  upon  the  preparation 
of  bismuth  citrate — 1,  by  double  decomposition  between  bismuth  nitrate  and  potassium 
or  sodium  citrate  ; or  2,  by  first  preparing  bismuthous  hydroxide  or  subcarbonate,  and 
treating  this  with  the  equivalent  quantity  of  citric  acid  ; or  3,  as  suggested  by  Bother, 
by  boiling  for^a  short  period  equivalent  quantities  (10  parts)  of  bismuth  subnitrate  and 
(7  parts)  of  citric  acid  with  some  water.  This  latter  process  has  been  adopted  by  the 


952 


LIQUOR  C ALOIS. 


U.  S.  P.  (see  page  339),  while  the  Br.  P.  prepares  its  Bismuthi  citras  from  a solution  of 
bismuthous  nitrate  in  nitric  acid,  diluted  with  water  as  much  as  possible,  by  precipitating 
it  with  sodium  citrate.  These  precipitated  citrates  frequently  contain  small  quantities 
of  bismuthous  chloride  and  sulphate  as  impurities,  and  these  two  salts  remain  insoluble 
on  treating  the  citrate  with  ammonia,  which  should  be  added  merely  until  it  remains  per- 
manently in  slight  excess.  By  filtering,  weighing  the  dried  undissolved  residue,  and 
deducting  it  from  the  original  weight  of  the  bismuthous  citrate,  the  actual  weight  of  the 
latter  is  readily  ascertained,  and  the  strength  of  the  solution  may  thus  be  adjusted. 

Bismuthi  et  ammonii  citras,  Br .,  is  prepared  from  the  above  solution  (see  p.  339),  the 
heat  for  drying  in  scales  being  limited  to  37.8°  C.  (100°  F.)  to  avoid  loss  of  ammonia. 

Properties. — The  solution  of  the  British  Pharmacopoeia  is  colorless,  and  has  a saline 
slightly  styptic  taste  and  the  specific  gravity  1.07.  It  is  neutral  or  slightly  alkaline  to 
test-paper,  and  mixes  with  water  without  change.  Potassa  yields  a precipitate  of  bismuth 
hydroxide  and  liberates  ammonia;  hydrochloric  acid  produces  a precipitate  of  basic  salt, 
which  is  redissolved  by  an  excess  of  acid.  2 fluidrachms  of  the  official  solution,  treated 
with  hydrogen  sulphide  yield  a black  precipitate,  which  after  drying  weighs  about  7 
grains.  Each  fluidrachm  represents  3 grains  of  bismuthous  oxide. 

Action  and  Uses. — If,  as  we  have  endeavored  to  show  elsewhere,  the  action  of 
bismuth  is  entirely  local  and  depends  upon  its  insolubility,  the  use  of  its  soluble  salts  is 
irrational.  Yet  the  solubility  of  this  preparation  is  set  forth  as  a ground  of  its  superior- 
ity over  the  oxide  and  the  subnitrate  ! As  an  astringent  it  is  quite  superfluous,  although 
it  seems  to  have  been  employed  in  cases  of  flaccidity  of  the  vagina,  rectum,  z tc.  The 
official  dose  is  stated  to  be  from  Gm.  2-4  (f^ss-j). 

LIQUOR  CALCIS,  XJ.  S.9  Br. — Solution  of  Lime. 

Aqua  calcarise,  P.  G.  ; Aqua  calcarise,  ustse , A qua  calcis , Calcaria  soluta,  Oxydum  calci- 
cum  aqua  solutum. — Lime-water,  E.  ; Eau  ( Liqueur ) de  chaux,  Fr. ; Kalkwasser , G. 

A saturated,  aqueous  solution  of  calcium  hydroxide. 

The  percentage  of  calcium  hydroxide  varies  with  the  temperature,  being  somewhat 
over  0.17  per  cent,  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  and  diminishing  as  the  temperature  rises. 

Preparation. — Lime  12  Gm.,  Distilled  Water  a sufficient  quantity.  Slake  the  lime 
by  the  gradual  addition  of  70  Cc.  of  the  water,  then  add  360  Cc.  of  water,  and  stir 
occasionally  during  half  an  hour.  Allow  the  mixture  to  settle,  decant  the  liquid,  and 
throw  this  away.  Now  add  to  the  residue  3600  Cc.  of  distilled  water,  stir  well,  wait  a 
short  time  for  the  coarser  particles  to  subside,  and  pour  the  liquid,  holding  the  undis- 
solved lime  in  suspension,  into  a glass-stoppered  bottle.  Pour  off  the  clear  liquid  when 
wanted  for  use. — IT.  S. 

Wash  slaked  lime  2 oz.  with  distilled  water  until  the  filtrate  acidulated  with  nitric  acid 
is  not  rendered  turbid  by  silver  nitrate.  Put  the  washed  lime  into  a stoppered  bottle 
containing  1 gallon  of  distilled  water,  and  shake  well  for  two  or  three  minutes.  After 
12  hours  the  excess  of  lime  will  have  subsided,  and  the  clear  solution  may  be  drawn  off 
with  a siphon  as  it  is  required  for  use,  or  transferred  to  a green  glass  bottle  furnished 
with  a well-ground  stopper.— Br. 

When  water  is  added  to  burned  lime  or  calcium  oxide,  this  is  converted  into  calcium 
hydroxide,  Ca(OIl)2  which  dissolves  in  the  excess  of  water.  If  used  for  this  purpose,  the 
lime  should  be  prepared  from  marble,  when  it  will  be  nearly  pure : but  if  made  from 
ordinary  limestone  it  usually  contains  alkalies  which  are  readily  soluble  in  water,  hence 
it  should  be  treated  with  a portion  of  the  water,  and  this  rejected  to  remove  the  impuri- 
ties mentioned.  The  water  should  be  kept,  at  a low  temperature,  upon  the  lime  to  retain 
the  solution  saturated,  and  this  should  be  drawn  off  as  needed. 

Properties. — Lime-water  is  a clear,  colorless,  inodorous  solution  of  a slight  alkaline 
disagreeable  taste,  but  of  a strong  alkaline  reaction  to  test-paper ; its  specific  gravity  is 
1.0015  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  When  exposed  to  air  it  becomes  covered  with  a pellicle  of 
calcium  carbonate  ; the  same  compound  is  formed  with  the  loss  of  the  alkaline  reaction 
if  carbon  dioxide  is  passed  through  the  solution  and  the  solution  heated  to  expel  the 
excess  of  the  gas  (absence  of  alkalies  or  alkali  carbonates).  If  lime-water  is  heated  to 
boiling,  it  becomes  turbid  from  the  separation  of  some  calcium  hydroxide,  which  dissolves 
again  on  cooling.  On  the  addition  of  test-solution  of  oxalic  acid,  lime-water  yields  a 
white  precipitate  of  calcium  oxalate,  which  is  insoluble  in  acetic,  but  soluble  in  hydro- 
chloric, acid. 

Tests. — Since  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  lime  requires  about  780  parts  of  water  for  solution, 


LIQUOR  CALC  IS. 


953 


1 ffuidounce  (U.  S.  measure)  of  lime-water  contains  0.57  grain  of  lime  or  0.75  grain  of 
calcium  hydroxide,  which  is  equal  to  0.125  and  0.165  per  cent,  respectively.  At  21°  C. 
(70°  F.)  800  parts  of  water  are  required  for  solution,  indicating  0.125  per  cent,  of  calcium 
oxide  or  0.166  per  cent,  of  calcium  hydroxide  ; a solution  of  lime  of  this  strength  is 
obtained  at  32°  C.  (89.6°  F.).  According  to  Thomas  Maben  (1883),- 1 part  of  CaO  is 
soluble 


at 

10° 

20° 

30° 

40° 

60° 

80° 

99°C. 

in 

770 

791 

862 

932 

1136 

1362 

1650  parts  of  water. 

equal  to 

0.129 

0.126 

0.116 

0.107 

0.088 

0.073 

0.06  per  cent.  CaO. 

On  mixing  100  Cc.  of  lime-water  with  40  Cc.  of  decinormal  volumetric  solution  of  oxalic 
acid,  the  liquid  should  not  acquire  an  acid  reaction,  indicating  at  least  0.148  per  cent,  of 
Ca(OH)2. — U.  S.  “ 10  ounces  require  for  neutralization  at  least  180  grain-measures  of  the 
volumetric  solution  of  oxalic  acid,  which  corresponds  to  5 grains  of  calcium  oxide 
(CaO).” — Br. 

Action  and  Uses. — Lime-water  is  destitute  of  caustic  qualities,  but  is  astringent 
and  styptic,  diminishing  more  or  less  the  secretion  of  parts  to  which  it  is  direetly  applied 
and  of  the  mucous  membranes  and  glands  when  taken  internally.  It  is  a valuable  lotion 
in  various  diseases  of  the  skin,  especially  in  eczema  capitis , and  ulcers.  In  the  former 
the  affected  part  should  be  thoroughly  cleansed  with  warm  water  and  soap  before  the 
lime-water  is  applied.  In  all  cases  of  chronic  mucous  or  purulent  discharges  from  the 
nostrils,  fauces,  auditory  canal,  vagina,  urethra,  or  rectum,  it  is  one  of  the  simplest  and 
best  washes.  It  is  said  to  destroy  ascarides  of  the  rectum* . With  flaxseed  oil  or  sweet  oil 
it  forms  the  official  liniment  so  useful  in  the  treatment  of  hums.  Equal  parts  of  lime- 
water  and  cod-liver  oil  have  been  given  with  great  advantage  in  teaspoonful  doses  in  a 
case  of  scalded  throat  produced  by  hot  steam. 

Internally,  as  already  indicated,  it  appears  to  escape  in  part  the  neutralizing  influence 
of  the  gastric  acids,  for  it  has  long  been  used  to  diminish  the  mucous  secretion  in  chronic 
bronchitis,  and  to  modify  the  urine  and  the  lining  membrane  of  the  urinary  passages  in 
calculous  and  other  disorders  of  the  urino-genital  organs.  In  vesical  diseases  lime-water 
is  sometimes  injected  into  the  bladder  through  a catheter  after  properly  cleansing  the 
organ.  It  would  seem,  whether  employed  in  the  one  or  the  other  manner,  to  act  by 
diminishing  the  irritability  of  the  vesical  mucous  membrane.  Lime-water  is  one  of  the 
most  useful  remedies  for  excessive  vomiting  produced  by  irritability  or  ulcer  of  the  stom- 
ach, especially  when  the  matters  rejected  are  very  acid.  In  the  vomiting  of  tubercular 
phthisis  and  of  simple  and  cancerous  gastric  ulcer  milk  with  lime-water  is  sometimes  the 
only  nutriment  that  can  be  retained.  The  constipation  that  results  from  the  internal  use 
of  lime-water,  as  well  as  its  beneficial  operation  in  chronic  bronchitis,  proves  that  it  is  not 
fully  acidified  in  the  stomach.  In  diarrhoea  attended  with  acid  stools  and  the  associated 
colic  and  tympanites  belonging  to  acid  gastro-intestinal  fermentation,  and  which  is  so 
prevalent  during  hot  seasons,  especially  among  infants,  lime-water  added  to  milk  in  the 
proportion  of  from  one-fourth  to  one-half  is  a very  efficient  remedy.  The  aphthous 
condition  of  the  mouth  and  fauces,  and  the  thrush  fungus  that  forms  there  under  these 
circumstances,  are  often  removable  by  lime-water.  In  chronic  diarrhoea , dependent  on 
whatever  cause,  this  solution,  given  with  milk  as  the  almost  exclusive  food,  will  usually 
mitigate,  and  in  appropriate  cases  cure,  the  disease.  The  most  signal  triumphs  of  this 
simple  method  are  achieved  in  chronic  dysentery  and  in  cases  of  typhoid  fever  protracted 
by  the  persistence  of  the  intestinal  ulcers.  Even  in  tubercular  phthisis  it  sometimes  sus- 
pends the  discharges  for  a considerable  time.  In  all  these  affections  it  diminishes  tym- 
panites, and  in  certain  cases  in  which  that  symptom  appears  to  be  the  result  of  intes- 
tinal fermentation,  lime-water  is  one  of  the  best  remedies.  This  preparation  has  been 
extolled  as  a remedy  for  diabetes , and  the  highest  testimony  in  its  favor  exists,  so  far  as 
relates  to  its  power  of  lessening  the  secretion  of  sugar.  It  in  like  proportion  diminishes 
thirst  and  voracious  appetite.  It  should  be  given  with  milk,  or,  if  that  is  contraindicated, 
with  cream,  and  in  quality  not  less  than  1 or  2 pints  daily.  In  hydruria  or  diabetes 
insipidus  it  is  more  efficacious  still.  It  has  been  recommended  in  rachitis  and  osteomala- 
cia, and  is  very  useful  in  gouty  (acid)  dyspepsia,  especially  when  taken  during  the  first 
stages  of  digestion.  The  cutaneous  eruptions  so  often  associated  with  gouty  disorders  are 
usefully  treated  by  the  internal  use  of  lime-water. 

The  demonstration  that  false  membranes  are  soluble  in  lime-water  led  to  the  use  of 
gargles  and  the  spray  of  this  liquid  and  the  vapors  of  slaked  lime  in  pseudo-membranous 
pharyngitis  (diphtheria)  and  in  laryngitis  and  bronchitis  of  the  same  type.  The  result 
has  been  the  cure  of  a large  number  of  cases  in  which  the  nature  of  the  disease  was 


954 


LIQUOR  CALCIS  CHLORINA TIE.—EP1SPA STICUS. 


abundantly  demonstrated  by  inspection  or  by  the  rejection  of  false  membranes.  To  be 
successful  the  gargle  or  inhalation  should  be  frequently  repeated.  As  often  as  possible 
the  patient  should  be  confined  in  a dense  vapor  of  slaking  lime,  and  with  this  the  use  of 
atomized  lime-water  should  be  alternated,  while  the  room  is  kept  filled  with  the  vapor. 
Other  treatment,  except  stimulants,  is  of  little  use.  It  may  perhaps  be  questioned  whether 
the  good  results  of  this  method  are  due  to  the  solvent  action  of  the  lime  or  to  the  soften- 
ing influence  of  the  watery  vapor  which  holds  it  in  solution.  Possibly,  both  influences 
contribute  to  the  result,  but  the  latter  is  probably  the  most  efficient. 

Lime-water  is  an  appropriate  antidote  to  arsenous  acid , with  which  it  forms  an  innocu- 
ous compound. 

The  dose  of  lime-water  is  Gm.  16-120  (f^ss-iv)  given  from  one  to  four  times  a day 
with  an  equal  quantity  of  milk  or  weak  animal  broth. 

LIQUOR  CALCIS  CHLORINATE,  Br. — Solution  of  Chlorinated 

Lime. 

Chlorure  de  chaux  liquide , Fr.  ; Chlorkalk-Ldsung , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Chlorinated  Lime  1 pound;  Distilled  Water  1 gallon.  Mix 
well  the  water  and  the  chlorinated  lime  by  trituration  in  a large  mortar,  and,  having  trans- 
terred  the  mixture  to  a stoppered  bottle,  let  it  be  well  shaken  several  times  for  the  space 
of  3 hours.  Pour  out  now  the  contents  of  the  bottle  on  a calico  filter,  and  let  the  solu- 
tion wThich  passes  through  be  preserved  in  a stoppered  bottle. — Br. 

The  solution  has  the  odor,  taste,  and  general  properties  of  chlorinated  lime  (see  page 
382).  The  Br.  P.  requires  the  solution  to  contain  at  least  1.9  (about  2)  per  cent,  of 
available  chlorine,  which  is  ascertained  by  the  following  test : 80  grains  by  weight,  mixed 
with  20  grains  of  potassium  iodide  dissolved  in  4 fluidounces  of  water,  when  acidulated 
with  2 fluidrachms  of  hydrochloric  acid  give  a red  solution,  which  requires  for  the  dis- 
charge of  its  color  450  grain-measures  of  the  volumetric  solution  of  sodium  thiosulphate. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  solution  is  convenient  as  a deodorizer  of  decomposing 
organic  matter,  as  an  excitant  of  the  skin  in  low  fevers,  as  a stimulant  of  chronic  cutane- 
ous eruptions , and  for  the  various  purposes  enumerated  under  Chlorinated  Lime. 

LIQUOR  COCAINE  HYDROCHLORATIS,  Br.  Add.  — Solution  of 

Cocaine  Hydrochlorate. 

Preparation. — Cocaine  Hydrochlorate  33  grains  ; Salicylic  Acid  i grain  ; Distilled 
Water,  sufficient  to  produce  6 fluidrachms.  Boil  the  water,  add  the  salicylic  acid,  and 
then  the  cocaine  hydrochlorate  ; cool,  and  add  water  if  necessary,  to  produce  the  required 
volume. — Br.  Add. 

This  is  a very  strong  solution  of  cocaine  hydrochlorate,  and  therefore  should  be  used 
with  care.  Each  fluidrachm  contains  5.5  grains  of  the  salt,  or  each  minim  about  Jy  of  a 
grain.  The  dose  is  stated  to  be  2 to  10  minims.  The  salicylic  acid  is  added  as  a pre- 
servative. 


LIQUOR  EPISPASTICUS,  Br.— Blistering  Liquid. 

Linimentum  cantharidis , Br.  1864. — Liqueur  vesicant , Fr.  ; Blasenziehende  Fliissig- 
keit , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Cantharides,  in  powder,  5 ounces  ; Acetic  Ether  a sufficiency, 
Mix  the  cantharides  with  3 fluidounces  of  acetic  ether  ; pack  in  a percolator,  and  at  the 
expiration  of  24  hours  pour  acetic  ether  over  the  contents  of  the  percolator,  and  allow 
the  solution  to  pass  slowly  through  until  20  fluidounces  are  obtained.  Keep  the  liquid 
in  a stoppered  bottle. — Br. 

As  formerly  made  with  acetic  acid  and  ether,  the  blistering  liquid  contained  the 
entire  amount  of  cantharidin  in  solution.  Tichborne  preferred  to  use  in  place  of 
acetic  acid  an  equivalent  amount  of  glacial  acetic  acid,  as  thereby  less  water  is  intro- 
duced into  the  powder.  Brady  has  shown  that  when  spontaneously  evaporated  from  the 
skin  the  film  left  is  not  uniform,  but  thickest  at  the  circumference.  Deane  (1876)  recom- 
mended the  discarding  of  the  official  solvents,  and  the  substitution  of  acetic  ether,  which 
dries  more  uniformly  and  takes  up  a larger  amount  of  cantharidin. 

Uses. — This  liquid  is  intended  to  produce  a rapid  vesication,  which  is  effected  chiefly 
by  the  acetic  acid,  although  the  irritation  is  maintained  by  the  cantharides.  It  should 


LIQUOR  FERRI  ACE  TATIS. 


955 


be  well  rubbed  into  the  skin  with  a small  mop  or  piece  of  sponge  attached  to  a handle, 
until  redness  is  produced,  and  should  be  used  only  on  limited  portions  of  the  skin. 

LIQUOR  FERRI  ACETATIS,  U.  S.,  Br.— Solution  of  Ferric  Acetate. 

Liquor  ferri  acetici,  P.  G. — Solution  of  ferric  acetate , E. ; Acetate  ferrique  liquicle,  Fr.  ; 
Ferriacetat-Ldsung , Gr. 

An  aqueous  solution  of  ferric  acetate  Fe.^C^HgO.^e ; molecular  weight  464.92 — con- 
taining about  33  per  cent,  of  the  anhydrous  salt  and  corresponding  to  about  7.5  per  cent, 
of  metallic  iron. 

Preparation. — Solution  of  Ferric  Sulphate,  1000  Grin.  ; Glacial  Acetic  Acid,  260 
Gm. ; Ammonia-water,  850  Cc. ; Water,  Distilled  Water,  each  a sufficient  quantity  to 
make  1000  Gm.  Mix  the  ammonia-water  with  3000  Cc.  of  cold  water,  and  the  solution 
of  ferric  sulphate  with  10,000  Cc.  of  cold  water.  Add  the  latter  solution  slowly  to  the 
diluted  ammonia-water,  stirring  constantly.  Let  the  mixture  stand  until  the  precipitate 
has  subsided  as  far  as  practicable,  and  then  decant  the  supernatant  liquid.  Add  to  the 
precipitate  6000  Cc.  of  boiling  water,  mix  well,  and  again  set  the  mixture  aside,  as  before. 
Repeat  the  washing  with  successive  portions  of  boiling  water,  in  the  same  manner,  until 
the  washings  are  no  longer  affected  by  sodium  cobaltic  nitrite  test-solution  (showing  the 
removal  of  ammonia  and  its  salts).  Transfer  the  mixture  to  a wet  muslin  strainer,  allow 
the  precipitate  to  drain  completely,  and  press  it,  folded  in  the  strainer,  until  its  weight 
is  reduced  to  700  Gm.  or  less.  Now  add  the  precipitate  gradually  to  the  glacial  acetic 
acid  contained  in  a jar  provided  with  a glass  stopper,  stirring  the  mixture  after  each 
addition  until  each  portion  added  is  nearly  dissolved  before  adding  another  portion. 
Finally,  add  enough  distilled  water  to  make  the  product  weigh  1000  Gm.,  mix  thoroughly, 
allow  it  to  become  clear  by  subsidence,  and  decant  the  clear  solution.  Keep  the  product 
in  well-stoppered  bottles,  in  a cool  place,  protected  from  light. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 pint  of  this  solution  14  fluidounces  of  solution  of  ferric  sulphate  should  be 
diluted  with  10  pints  of  water,  and  then  poured  slowly  into  a mixture  of  151  fluidounces 
of  ammonia-water  and  4 pints  of  water.  The  well-washed  and  drained  precipitate,  free 
from  ammonium  salts,  should  be  dissolved  in  4 fluidounces  of  glacial  acetic  acid,  as 
directed  above,  and  finally  enough  distilled  water  added  to  bring  the  volume  of  finished 
product  up  to  16  fluidounces. 

This  formula  is  modelled  after  that  of  the  German  Pharmacopoeia  for  1872,  but  yields 
a product  differing  from  it  not  only  in  strength,  but  also  in  composition.  The  first  step 
is  the  precipitation  of  ferric  hydroxide,  which  must  be  accomplished  at  a low  temperature, 
the  iron  solution  being  poured  slowly,  and  with  continued  stirring,  into  the  aminoniacal 
liquid,  which  must  remain  in  slight  excess,  and  the  precipitate  being  washed  with  boil- 
ing water  by  decantation  until  ammonium  salts  can  no  longer  be  detected.  After  drain- 
ing the  precipitate  upon  a strainer  this  is  folded  and  pressure  applied  to  it  very  gradually 
— an  operation  which  requires  patience  to  avoid  bursting  of  the  press-cloth.  The  pressure 
should  be  very  slowly  increased  until  the  residue  no  longer  adheres  to  the  cloth  as  a soft 
pulpy  mass,  but  may  be  readily  removed  in  the  form  of  a somewhat  firm  cake. 

The  change  in  the  directions  for  washing  the  precipitate  from  cold  to  boiling  water 
will  prove  of  great  benefit,  as  it  is  almost  impossible  to  remove  the  alkali  salts  by  the 
former  treatment,  and  the  presence  of  these  has  been  shown  to  be  the  cause  of  the  in- 
stability of  the  solution.  If  carefully  prepared  by  the  present  official  formula,  the 
liquid  will  keep  perfectly,  and  can  even  be  exposed  to  a temperature  of  100°  Cc.  (212° 
F.)  without  undergoing  decomposition.  Some  years  ago  Oldtmann  recommended  the 
removal  of  water  and  alkali  by  freezing,  but  the  washing  by  hot  water  is  far  less  trouble- 
some and  has  been  found  by  us  thoroughly  satisfactory. 

Liquor  ferri  acetatis  fortior,  Br. — Strong  solution  of  ferric  acetate.  Take  of 
solution  of  persulphate  of  iron  5 fluidounces ; glacial  acetic  acid  3 fluidounces ; solution 
of  ammonia,  distilled  water,  of  each  sufficient.  Mix  8 fluidounces  of  solution  of  ammonia 
with  1 pint  of  distilled  water;  to  this  gradually  add  the  solution  of  persulphate  of  iron, 
previously  diluted  with  about  a pint  of  distilled  water;  stir  the  whole  thoroughly,  taking 
care  that  the  ammonia  is,  even  finally,  in  slight  excess,  as  indicated  by  the  odor  of  the 
mixture.  Let  the  whole  stand  for  two  hours,  stirring  occasionally;  then  put  it  on  a 
calico  filter,  and  when  the  liquid  has  drained  away,  wash  the  precipitated  ferric  hydroxide 
with  distilled  water  until  the  liquid  which  passes  through  the  filter  ceases  to  give  a pre- 
cipitate with  solution  of  barium  chloride.  Let  the  ferric  hydroxide  drain  ; squeeze  to 
remove  superfluous  moisture  ; dissolve  it  in  the  glacial  acetic  acid  ; and  make  the  volume 


956  LIQUOR  FERRI  ACETATTS. 

up  to  10  fluidounces  with  distilled  water.  Allow  any  insoluble  matter  to  subside,  and 
pour  off  the  clear  solution. 

The  strong  solution  of  the  Br.  P.  is  somewhat  weaker  than  the  liquor  of  the  IT.  S., 
and  contains  a larger  excess  of  acetic  acid.  Its  specific  gravity  is  1.127,  and  it  contains 
6.4  per  cent,  of  metallic  iron  or  9.2  per  cent,  of  Fe203.  1 fluidrachm  of  it,  diluted  with 

water,  yields  with  ammonia  5.7  grains  of  ferric  oxide. 

Liquor  ferri  acetatis,  Br. — This  is  made  by  mixing  5 fluidounces  of  strong  solu- 
tion of  ferric  acetate  with  sufficient  distilled  water  to  make  20  fluidounces.  It  has  the 
specific  gravity  1.031. 

Properties. — Solution  of  ferric  acetate  is  “a  dark  red-brown,  transparent  liquid, 
of  an  acetous  odor,  a sweetish,  faintly  styptic  taste,  and  a slightly  acid  reaction  ; sp.  gr. 
1.160  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  The  diluted  solution  forms  a brown-red  precipitate  with  am- 
monia-water, and  a blue  precipitate  with  test-solution  of  potassium  ferrocyanide.  When 
heated  with  sulphuric  acid  the  solution  evolves  acetous  vapors.” — U.  S.  If  the  solution 
be  largely  diluted  with  water  until  it  has  a mere  yellowish  color,  the  addition  of  solution 
of  potassium  sulphocyanate  will  occasion  a blood-red  color.  On  exposure  to  the  light  a 
partial  reduction  to  ferrous  salt  takes  place.  As  prepared  by  the  pharmacopceial  direc- 
tions, and  provided  the  acetic  acid  be  of  the  proper  strength,  the  liquid  will  be  a solution 
of  normal  ferric  acetate  having  the  composition  given  above.  The  ferric  hydroxide, 
however,  will  completely  dissolve  in  two-thirds  the  quantity  of  acid  ordered,  the  salt 
then  dissolved  having  the  composition  Fe2(0H)2(C2H302)4 ; and  this  is  the  compound 
which  has  been  largely  employed  in  Europe.  It  is  more  readily  affected  than  the  pre- 
ceding by  the  influence  of  light  and  heat,  and  is  more  easily  decomposed,  even  in  the 
dark,  with  the  formation  of  a brown  precipitate,  if  the  ferric  hydroxide  had  not  been 
thoroughly  washed ; precipitates  which  have  been  produced  under  the  circumstances 
indicated  are  not  dissolved  on  the  addition  of  acetic  acid. 

The  German  Pharmacopoeia  recognizes  a solution  of  the  basic  acetate,  mixed  with 
about  12  per  cent,  of  the  normal  acetate ; this  solution  has  the  specific  gravity  1.087- 
1.091,  and  contains  between  4.8  and  5 per  cent,  of  iron. 

Tests. — The  tests  of  purity  are  in  both  pharmacopoeias  substantially  alike.  If  a few 
drops  of  the  liquid  be  added  to  freshly-prepared  test-solution  of  potassium  ferricyanide, 
the  mixture  should  acquire  a pure  brown  color  without  a trace  of  green  or  greenish- 
blue  (absence  of  ferrous  salt).  If  the  iron  be  completely  precipitated  from  the  solu- 
tion by  an  excess  of  ammonia,  a portion  of  the  filtrate  should  not  yield  a white  or  a 
dark-colored  precipitate  with  hydrogen  sulphide  (zinc,  copper)  ; another  portion  should 
leave  no  fixed  residue  on  evaporation  and  gentle  ignition  (fixed  alkalies,  alkaline  earths, 
zinc,  copper)  ; and  a third  portion  of  the  filtrate  on  being  acidulated  with  nitric  acid 
should  not  be  rendered  turbid  by  test-solution  of  barium  nitrate  (sulphate)  or  of  silver 
nitrate  (chloride).  “If  1.12  (1.1176)  Gm.  of  the  solution  be  introduced  into  a glass- 
stoppered  bottle  (having  a capacity  of  about  100  Cc.),  together  with  15  Cc.  of  water 
and  2 Cc.  of  hydrochloric  acid,  and,  after  the  addition  of  1 Gm.  of  potassium  iodide,  the 
mixture  be  kept  for  half  an  hour  at  a temperature  of  40°  C.  (104°  F.),  and  then  allowed 
to  cool  and  mixed  with  a few  drops  of  starch  test-solution,  it  should  require  about  15  Cc. 
of  decinormal  sodium  thiosulphate  volumetric  solution  to  discharge  the  blue  or  greenish 
color  of  the  liquid  (each  Cc.  of  the  volumetric  solution  consumed  representing  0.5  per 
cent,  of  metallic  iron.” — U.  S. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Solution  of  ferric  acetate,  diluted  with  water,  may  be 
used  as  a test  for  free  mineral  acids,  which  change  the  color  from  red  to  brown. 

Ferri  acetas.  The  clear  solution  obtained  in  the  cold  by  saturating  acetic  acid  with 
ferric  hydroxide,  decanting  instead  of  filtering  from  the  insoluble  matter,  and  evaporated 
at  a temperature  of  about  60°  C.  (140°  F.),  leaves  a scaly  basic  salt,  which  is  again  sol- 
uble in  cold  water. 

Uses. — Besides  possessing  the  special  virtues  of  chalybeate  preparations,  this  com- 
pound is  astringent,  and  indeed  may  be  used  as  a styptic,  both  internally  and  topically. 
The  dose  of  the  German  preparation  after  which  this  one  is  formed  is  Gm.  0.03-1  (gr. 
v-xv)  as  a tonic  or  internal  astringent.  In  much  larger  doses  and  well  diluted  with  water 
it  has  been  given  as  an  antidote  to  arsenous  acid. 

The  dose  of  Liq.  Ferri  Acetatis,  Br.  P.  is  from  Gm.  0.3  to  2 (5-30  minims)  and  that 
of  the  stronger  solution  Gm.  0.06-0.5  (1-8  minims). 


LIQUOR  FERRI  CHLORIDI. 


957 


LIQUOR  FERRI  CHLORIDI,  77.  S. — Solution  of  Ferric  Chloride. 

Liquor  ferri  perchloridi  fortior , Br.  ; Liquor  ferri  sesquichlorati,  P.  G. ; Liquor  ferri 
muriatici  oxydati , Ferrum  sesquichloratum  solutum. — Solution  of  chloride  of  iron , Strong 
solution  of  per  chloride  of  iron , E.  ; Solution  de  perchlorure  de  fer , Chlorure  ferrique 
liquide , Fr. ; Eisenchloridlosung , Fliissiges  Fisenchloj'id , Gr. 

The  specific  gravities  of  the  official  solutions  of  ferric  chloride  are — 1.387  U.  S., 
1.42  j&r.,  1.280  to  1.282  P.  G .,  1.26  F.  Coe?.,  and  they  contain  37.8  per  cent.  U.  S. 
(with  some  free  hydrochloric  acid),  about  39  per  cent.  Fr.,  29.8  per  cent.  P.  G .,  and 
26  per  cent.  F.  Cod .,  of  anhydrous  ferric  chloride. 

Preparation. — Iron,  ill  the  form  of  fine  wire  and  cut  into  small  pieces,  150  Gm.  ; 
Hydrochloric  Acid,  870  Gm.  ; Nitric  Acid,  Distilled  Water,  each  a sufficient  quantity, 
to  make  1000  Gm.  Put  the  iron  wire  into  a flask  capable  of  holding  double  the  volume 
of  the  intended  product.  Pour  upon  it  540  Gm.  of  hydrochloric  acid  previously  diluted 
with  250  Cc.  of  distilled  water,  and  let  the  mixture  stand  until  effervescence  ceases  ; 
then  heat  it  to  the  boiling-point,  filter  through  paper,  and,  having  rinsed  the  flask  and 
iron  wire  with  a little  boiling  distilled  water,  pass  the  washings  through  the  filter.  To 
the  filtered  liquid  add  280  Gm.  of  hydrochloric  acid,  and  pour  the  mixture,  slowly  and 
gradually,  in  a stream,  into  80  Gm.  of  nitric  acid  contained  in  a capacious  porcelain  ves- 
sel. After  effervescence  ceases  apply  heat,  by  means  of  a sand-bath,  until  the  liquid  is 
free  from  nitrous  odor.  Test  a small  portion  with  freshly-prepared  test-solution  of  potas- 
sium ferricyanide.  Should  this  reagent  produce  a blue  color,  add  a* little  more  nitric 
acid,  drop  by  drop,  as  long  as  effervescence  is  observed,  and  evaporate  off  the  excess. 
Finally,  add  the  remaining  50  Gm.  of  hydrochloric  acid  and  enough  distilled  water  to 
make  the  whole  weigh  1000  Gm. — U.  S. 

To  prepare  1 pint  of  solution  of  ferric  chloride  would  require  1550  grains  of  iron 
wire,  134  fluidrachms  of  hydrochloric  acid  (divided  into  three  portions  of  82.5,  44,  and 
7?  fluidrachms  respectively)  and  8£  fluidrachms  of  nitric  acid.  The  first  portion  of 
hydrochloric  acid  should  be  diluted  with  6 fluidounces  of  distilled  water. 

Liquor  ferri  perchloridi  fortior,  Br. — Mix  iron  wire  4 oz.,  hydrochloric  acid  12? 
fl.  oz.,  and  water  7 oz. ; when  effervescence  ceases,  heat  to  boiling,  filter,  rinse  the  flask 
and  contents  with  a little  water,  and  pour  this  over  the  filter ; add  to  the  filtrate  hydro- 
chloric acid  7 fl.  oz. ; then  pour  the  solution  in  a slow,  continuous  stream  into  1 \ fl.  oz. 
of  nitric  acid,  the  evolution  of  red  fumes  being  promoted,  if  necessary,  by  a slight 
application  of  heat.  Evaporate  the  product  until  no  more  nitrous  fumes  escape  and  a 
precipitate  begins  to  form  ; then  add  hydrochloric  acid  1 fl.  oz.  and  sufficient  water  to 
produce  17 i fl.  oz.  of  the  solution. — Br. 

Liquor  ferri  perchloridi,  Br.  Mix  strong  solution  of  perchloride  of  iron  1 fluid- 
ounce  with  distilled  water  sufficient  for  4 fluidounces.  Its  spec.  grav.  is  1.11. 

The  reactions  which  take  place  in  the  preparation  of  ferric  chloride  and  the  proper 
manipulations  to  ensure  success  have  been  described.  (See  Ferri  Chloridum,  page  719.) 
The  solution  of  the  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia  differs  from  the  similar  solutions  of  the  other 
pharmacopoeias  in  containing  about  1.6  per  cent,  uncombined  HC1,  or  500  grains  of 
official  hydrochloric  acid,  to  the  pint : the  difference  in  density  has  been  stated  above. 

Properties. — Solution  of  ferric  chloride  is  a reddish-brown  liquid,  which  has  a faint 
odor  of  hydrochloric  acid,  an  acid  reaction,  and  a strongly  styptic  taste.  It  may  be  mixed 
with  water  and  alcohol  in  all  proportions  without  producing  a precipitate.  Diluted  with 
water,  it  gives  a brown  precipitate  with  ammonia  or  potassa,  a white  one  with  silver 
nitrate  (chloride),  and  a dark-blue  precipitate  of  Prussian  blue  with  potassium  ferrocya- 
nide.  It  is  not  altered  by  exposure  to  the  sunlight,  except  in  the  presence  of  various 
organic  matters,  by  which  the  salt  is  partly  reduced  to  ferrous  chloride  ; and  it  remains 
clear  when  heated  to  boiling  unless  ferric  oxychloride  be  present,  when  it  becomes  turbid, 
a slight  turbidity  being  best  observed  in  reflected  light.  On  being  evaporated  to  dryness 
a reddish-brown  salt  is  left,  which  at  a red  heat  is  partly  decomposed  and  partly  vola- 
tilized. 

Tests.— The  same  reactions  which  are  used  for  determining  the  purity  of  the  salt 
(see  Ferri  Chloridum,  page  719)  are  likewise  employed  for  this  solution.  On  adding 
a crystal  of  ferrous  sulphate  to  a cooled  mixture  of  equal  volumes  of  concentrated  sul- 
phuric acid  and  a moderately  dilute  portion  of  the  solution,  a black  color  should  not  be 
produced  near  the  crystal  (absence  of  nitric  acid).  A freshly-prepared  solution  of  potas- 
sium ferricyanide  should  color  the  solution  olive-brown,  but  not  blue  (ferrous  salt). 
Diluted  with  water  and  boiled,  it  acquires  a darker  color,  but  remains  clear  (oxychloride). 


958 


LIQUOR  FERRI  CHLORIDI. 


Test-solution  of  barium  chloride  should  not  cause  a precipitate  (sulphate).  Mixed  with 
excess  of  ammonia-water  and  filtered,  the  liquid  should  be  colorless  (copper)  ; a portion 
of  the  filtrate,  tested  with  hydrogen  sulphide  or  acidulated  with  acetic  acid  and  tested 
with  potassium  ferrocyanide,  should  not  be  precipitated  (copper,  zinc)  ; another  portion 
of  the  filtrate,  evaporated  to  dryness  and  ignited,  should  leave  no  residue  (alkalies,  alka- 
line earths,  zinc,  copper).  Paper  saturated  with  solution  of  starch  and  zinc  iodide  on 
being  held  near  the  surface  of  the  solution  should  not  acquire  a blue  color  (free  chlorine). 
“ If  1.12  (1.1176)  Gm.  of  the  solution  be  introduced  into  a glass-stoppered  bottle  (having 
a capacity  of  about  100  Cc.),  together  with  15  Cc.  of  water  and  2 Cc.  of  hydrochloric 
acid,  and,  after  the  addition  of  1 Gm.  of  potassium  iodide,  the  mixture  be  allowed  to 
stand  for  half  an  hour  at  a temperature  of  40°  C.  (104°  F.),  and  then  allowed  to  cool, 
and  mixed  with  a few  drops  of  starch  test-solution,  it  should  require  about  26  Cc.  of 
decinormal  sodium  thiosulphate  solution  to  discharge  the  blue  or  greenish  color  of  the 
liquid  (each  Cc.  of  the  volumetric  solution  consumed  corresponding  to  0.5  per  cent,  of 
metallic  iron). — U.  S.  2 fluidrachms  of  the  solution,  diluted  with  water,  and  mixed  with 
an  excess  of  ammonia-water,  yield  a reddish-brown  precipitate  which,  when  washed  and 
ignited,  weighs  between  30  and  32  grains. — Br. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Martin’s  hemostatic,  which  is  used  in  France,  con- 
sists of  selected  pieces  of  spunk  which  are  saturated  with  ferric  chloride. 

Adrian’s  hemostatic  is  made  by  dissolving  15  Gm.  of  sodium  chloride  in  60  Gm.  of 
water,  and  adding  25  Gm.  of  solution  of  ferric  chloride,  specific  gravity,  1.26. 

Ferrum  dialysatum,  Liqu<*r  ferri  dialysatus,  Br. ; Liquor  ferri  oxychlorati,  P.  G. ; 
Dialyzed  iron,  E. ; Fer  dialyse,  Fr. ; Fliissiges  Eisenoxychlorid,  G. 

Dialyzed  iron  is  made  by  saturating  an  aqueous  solution  of  ferric  chloride  with  ferric 
hydroxide,  putting  the  liquid  into  a dialyzer  and  suspending  this  in  water,  which  is  often 
renewed — as  long,  indeed,  as  it  acquires  an  acid  reaction.  Very  little  iron  will  pass 
through  the  parchment  septum  ; when  dialysis  is  completed  the  ferric  solution  is  diluted, 
so  that  100  grains  of  it,  when  evaporated  and  dried  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  100° 
C.  (212°  F.),  will  leave  a solid  residue  weighing  5 grains.  In  France  the  following 
process  has  been  adopted:  100  Gm.  of  solution  of  ferric  chloride  of  30°  B.  are  mixed  in 
small  quantities  with  35  Gm.  of  ammonia-water  of  22°  B.  The  precipitate  dissolves  at 
first  rapidly,  afterward  very  slowly.  When  the  liquid  has  become  transparent  it  is  intro- 
duced into  a dialysator  and  treated  as  stated  before ; eight  to  ten  days  are  required  in 
the  preparation. 

Similar  solutions  were  obtained  by  Ordway  (1858)  and  Bechamp  (1859)  by  leaving 
pure  ferric  hydroxide  in  contact  with  ferric  chloride  for  a prolonged  time.  Th.  Graham 
(1861)  subjected  this  to  dialysis,  and  succeeded  in  removing  the  acid  until  chlorine  cor- 
responding to  1.5  per  cent,  of  HC1  was  left.  Such  a solution,  however,  which  would 
correspond  to  Fe2Cl6.95Fe203,  gelatinized  ultimately.  Hager  (1868)  found  dialyzed  iron 
to  have  the  composition  Fe2Cl6.12Fe203 ; Ordway’s  oxychloride  was  Fe2Cl6.23Fe203. 
H.  Trimble  (1878)  has  analyzed  six  samples  met  with  in  commerce,  and  found  the 
saline  portion  to  vary  in  amount  between  2.51  and  4.83  per  cent.,  and  in  composition 
between  Fe2Cl6.l  lFe2Q3  and  Fe2Cl6.31Fe203. 

Prof.  E.  Schefier  (1878)  showed  that  by  precipitation  with  ammonia  very  basic  oxy- 
chlorides of  iron  may  be  obtained,  which,  after  having  been  thoroughly  washed,  will 
slowly  dissolve  in  distilled  water.  The  limits  at  which  a soluble  precipitate  is  obtained 
appear  to  have  been  reached  on  mixing  150  volumes  of  the  official  solution  of  ferric 
chloride  with  91.5  volumes  of  ammonia-water.  The  washed  precipitate  contained  97.83 
per  cent.  Fe203  to  2.17  per  cent.  Fe2Clfi,  and  required  over  7 weeks  for  effecting  solution 
in  distilled  water.  The  preparation  known  in  some  parts  of  Europe  as  Ferrum  catalyticmn 
is  probably  made  by  a similar  process.  The  German  Pharmacopoeia  has  adopted  the  fol- 
lowing process:  Dilute  solution  of  ferric  chloride  (spec.  grav.  1.281)  35  parts  with  water 
160  parts,  and  pour  the  mixture  slowly  into  ammonia-water  35  parts,  previously  diluted 
with  water  320  parts ; wash  the  precipitate,  express,  and  add  hydrochloric  acid  (spec, 
grav.  1.124)  3 parts;  agitate  occasionally  for  3 days,  then  warm  gently  until  solution 
has  been  effected,  and  dilute  with  water  until  the  liquid  has  the  spec.  grav.  1.050. 

According  to  the  Br.  P.,  6 fl.  oz.  of  strong  solution  of  iron  perchloride  are  precipitated 
with  ammonia  ; the  washed  and  squeezed  ferric  hydroxide  is  dissolved  in  1 fl.  oz.  of  the 
perchloride  solution,  the  liquid  filtered,  dialyzed,  and  made  to  measure  28  fl.  oz. 

Owing  to  the  retention  of  ammonia  by  ferric  hydroxide,  solutions  of  the  latter  in  acid 
or  ferric  chloride  must  vary  somewhat  in  character,  and  therefore  are  properly  subjected 


LIQUOR  FERRI  CHLORIDI.  959 

to  dialysis  for  separating  ammonium  chloride  and  increasing  the  basic  character  of  the 
ferric  oxychloride. 

Liquid  oxychloride  or  dialyzed  iron  is  perfectly  transparent  in  thin  layers  of  a deep 
brown-red  color,  inodorous,  and  almost  destitute  of  styptic  taste.  It  is  miscible  with 
alcohol,  glycerin,  syrup,  and  distilled  water,  but  not  with  spring  water  or  other,  even 
dilute  saline,  solutions.  A small  quantity  of  tannin  merely  darkens  the  liquid ; a larger 
quantity  causes  a deep-brown  gelatinous  precipitate.  A minute  quantity  of  silver 
nitrate  will  not  disturb  the  liquid ; a larger  quantity  will  cause  a gelatinous  brown  pre- 
cipitate, which  is  again  soluble  in  distilled  water ; but  on  adding  first  a slight  excess 
of  ammonia,  filtering  from  the  ferric  hydroxide,  acidulating  with  nitric  acid,  and  then 
testing  with  silver  nitrate,  a white  precipitate  of  silver  chloride  is  formed.  “ If  to  1 Cc. 
of  the  liquid,  diluted  with  19  Cc.  of  distilled  water,  1 drop  of  nitric  acid  be  added  and  2 
drops  of  volumetric  (decinormal)  solution  of  silver  nitrate,  the  mixture  should  be  clear 
in  transmitted  light. — P.  G.  This  test  indicates  the  thorough  washing  of  the  ferric 
hydroxide  and  the  absence  of  ammonium  chloride  from  the  solution  ; a few  drops  more 
of  either  the  acid  or  test-solution  will  cause  a turbidity  or  precipitate.  Prepared  by  the 
P.  G.  process,  it  has  the  specific  gravity  1 .050,  and  contains  nearly  3.5  per  cent,  of  iron 
or  about  7 per  cent,  of  oxychloride,  having  approximately  the  composition  Fe2Cl6.8Fe2- 
(OH)6.  A solution  which,  when  evaporated  on  a water-bath  until  the  residue  is  pulveru- 
lent and  weighs  5 per  cent.,  has,  according  to  E.  B.  Shuttleworth  (1877),  the  spec.  grav. 
1.034.  If  5 per  cent,  of  residue  is  left  after  completely  drying  in  a water-bath,  the  spec, 
grav.  is  1.040,  and  if  the  same  amount  of  residue  is  left  after  ignition,  the  spec.  grav.  of 
the  solution  is  1.046.  The  British  Pharmacopoeia  requires  the  spec.  grav.  1.047. 

Ferrum  albuminatum,  albuminate  of  iron,  is  a compound  of  ferric  chloride  and 
albumen  largely  used  in  Europe,  and  for  which  J.  Biel  (1878)  has  given  the  following 
process:  10  6m.  of  dry  soluble  egg-albumen  are  dissolved  in  100  Gin.  of  distilled  water; 
the  clear  solution  is  mixed  with  1.75  Gm.  of  crystallized  ferric  chloride  (see  page  719) 
previously  dissolved  in  24  Gm.  of  distilled  water;  20  Gm.  of  90  per  cent,  alcohol  are 
now  added,  and  sufficient  water  to  make  200  Gm.  This  concentrated  solution  will  keep 
in  the  dark  without  alteration ; for  dispensing,  to  obtain  the  Liquor  ferri  albuminati, , 1 
part  of  it  is  diluted  with  4 parts  of  distilled  water,  and  then  contains  0.033  per  cent,  of 
metallic  iron,  the  strength  generally  adopted  in  Europe.  It  is  more  convenient,  however, 
to  evaporate  the  concentrated  solution  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  40°  C.  (104°  F.), 
when  the  compound  is  obtained  in  golden-yellow  transparent  scales  containing  3.34  per 
cent,  of  iron,  and  yielding  the  solution  by  dissolving  them  in  one  hundred  times  their 
weight  of  distilled  water. 

Liquor  ferri  albumin ati,  P.  G .,  is  prepared  as  follows : 35  parts  of  dry  egg-albu- 
men are  dissolved  in  1000  parts  of  water,  the  solution  strained  and  poured  slowly  and  in 
a thin  stream,  under  constant  stirring,  into  a mixture  of  120  parts  of  oxychloride-of-iron 
solution  and  1000  parts  of  water  ; the  precipitate  is  well  washed  with  water  until  all 
chlorine  is  removed,  and  then  dissolved  in  a mixture  of  3 parts  of  soda  solution,  spec, 
grav.  1.170,  and  50  parts  of  water.  To  the  solution  are  added  150  parts  of  alcohol,  100 
parts  of  cinnamon-water,  2 parts  of  aromatic  tincture,  and  sufficient  water  to  make  the 
finished  product  weigh  1000  parts.  It  contains  about  4 per  cent,  of  metallic  iron. 

Ferrum  peptonatum,  peptonate  of  iron,  is  best  prepared  according  to  E.  Dietrich 
(1888)  as  follows:  10  Gm.  of  dried  or  75.0  Gm.  of  fresh  egg-albumen  are  dissolved  in 
1000  Cc.  of  distilled  water ; to  this  are  added  18  Gm.  of  hydrochloric  acid  (sp.  gr.  1.124) 
and  0.5  of  pepsin,  and  the  mixture  digested  at  40°  C.  (104°  F.)  until  a portion  produces 
only  a faint  turbidity  with  nitric  acid ; allow  to  cool,  neutralize  with  soda-solution,  strain 
and  mix  the  liquid  with  120  Gm.  of  solution  of  ferric  oxychloride  (sp.  gr.  1.050)  and 
1000  Cc.  of  distilled  water.  The  fluid  is  now  exactly  neutralized  with  soda-solution  and 
the  precipitate  washed  by  decantation  with  distilled  water  until  the  washings  are  no 
longer  affected  by  silver  nitrate.  The  precipitate  is  drained  on  a well-wetted  calico 
strainer,  transferred  to  a porcelain  dish,  1.5  Gm.  hydrochloric  acid  added  and  heat  applied 
with  stirring  on  a water-bath  until  a clear  solution  results,  which  is  concentrated,  spread 
on  plates  of  glass,  and  dried  between  20°  and  30°  C.  (68°  and  86°  F.)  to  yield  a scale 
preparation.  Liq.  Ferri  Peptonati  is  made  by  dissolving  the  whole  scale  product,  or  the 
clear  solution  before  drying,  in  sufficient  distilled  water  to  make  900  Gm.  of  solution  to 
which  add  100  Gm.  of  brandy. 

These  so-called  in  different  iron  preparations  are  very  sensitive  to  carbonic  acid  and 
sodium  chloride  and  hence  they  must  be  prepared  as  rapidly  as  possible  and  with  distilled 
water  previously  boiled  and  cooled  again. 


960 


LIQUOR  FERRI  CHLORIDI. 


Action  and  Uses. — The  action  of  a poisonous  dose  of  ferric  chloride  is  described 
by  Beranger-Feraud  and  Porte  as  follows : An  acrid  and  styptic  taste  in  the  mouth  is 
followed  by  epigastric  distress,  vomiting,  colic,  diarrhoea  with  bloody  stools,  diminution 
or  suppression  of  urine,  cramps  and  paresis  of  the  legs,  cerebral  congestion  with  delirium 
or  collapse,  labored  breathing,  and  general  cyanosis.  It  is  employed  chiefly  for  the 
styptic  and  astringent  qualities  which  it  possesses  in  a high  degree.  Its  efficiency  as  an 
internal  medicine  is  displayed  in  various  passive  haemorrhages , particularly  of  the  stomach, 
bowels,  uterus,  and  urinary  passages.  It  is  useful  in  several  profluvia,  as  leucorrlioea , 
hydruria , nocturnal  incontinence  of  urine , and  vesical  catarrh.  It  is  reported  to  control 
seminal  emissions  due  to  irritability  of  the  urethra  or  spermatic  ducts.  In  chronic 
dysentery  it  is  one  of  the  best  of  the  astringent  medicines  appropriate  in  that  affection  ; 
it  may  be  prescribed  internally  and  by  enema.  This  preparation  is  more  frequently 
employed  locally  as  a styptic  and  astringent  in  epistaxis , haemorrhage  from  leech-bites , 
from  the  jaw  after  the  extraction  of  teeth , from  the  tonsils , from  cancer  of  the  uterus , from 
the  umbilical  cord,  from  the  rectum  in  haemorrhoids , from  the  uterus  after  abortion , and 
from  vascular  growths  in  the  cavity  of  that  organ.  It  is  of  interest  to  learn,  if  possible, 
in  what  manner  the  solution  acts  in  arresting  haemorrhage.  Undoubtedly  it  coagulates 
the  blood  itself.  If  a small  artery  is  allowed  to  bleed  into  saucer  containing  a mixture 
of  2 parts  liq.  ferri  perchlor.  ( B . P.)  and  1 of  water,  this  mixture  converts  almost  instan- 
taneously six  or  eight  times  its  bulk  of  blood  into  a tough,  hard  clot,  and  for  a long 
time  preserves  it  from  putrefaction  (Connel).  But  Broca  has  shown  that  this  coagulat- 
ing action  is  not  instantaneous,  but  needs  about  half  a minute  for  its  completion  ; so 
that  if  the  liquid  is  applied  to  a part  from  which  the  blood  is  flowing  freely,  its  styptic 
influence  cannot  be  exerted  upon  the  vessels  from  which  the  blood  escapes.  But  such 
an  influence  is  essential  to  an  arrest  of  the  haemorrhage.  Hence  in  applying  it  with  this 
object  every  effort  must  be  made  by  pressure  and  otherwise  to  suspend  for  a time  the 
escape  of  blood. 

One  of  its  most  valuable  applications  is  that  for  the  arrest  *of  post.-partum  haemorrhage 
caused  by  uterine  inertia.  Dr.  Barnes,  who  first  brought  it  into  vogue,  made  use  of  a 
mixture  of  ^ pint  of  the  stronger  solution  of  the  chloride  ( B . P .)  with  1J  pints  of 
water.  He  directed  that  a tube  about  9 inches  long  should  be  carried  by  the  hand  to 
the  fundus  of  the  uterus,  previously  freed  from  coagula,  and  that  the  liquid  should  be 
very  slowly  injected,  care  being  taken  that  no  air  accompanied  it.  Basing  his  judgment 
on  clinical  observation  alone,  he  declared  that  his  conviction  of  the  utility  of  this  opera- 
tion was  too  deep  to  permit  him  to  hesitate  to  pursue  it  or  to  urge  others  to  do  the  same. 
Such  appears  to  have  been  the  general  estimate  of  the  operation  by  the  gynaecologists 
of  London,  although  even  in  that  city  several  cases  of  death  were  attributed  to  its  use 
by  Drs.  Bantock,  Protheroe  Smith,  and  Snow  Beck.  Indeed,  the  last-named  gentleman 
stated  that  he  had  seen  nine  or  ten  cases  in  which  death  resulted  from  the  injection  of 
solution  of  chloride  of  iron  into  the  uterus  to  arrest  haemorrhage.  In  Edinburgh  the 
great  majority  of  leading  obstetrical  practitioners  agreed  that  its  employment  for  this 
purpose  is  either  useless  or  worse  than  useless.  Some  of  those  who  condemn  the  injec- 
tion into  the  uterus  of  a solution  of  chloride  of  iron  advocate  the  introduction  into  the 
organ  of  the  hand  containing  a sponge  saturated  with  a solution  of  equal  parts  of  the 
tincture  and  water,  and  the  expression  there  of  the  liquid  after  the  removal  of  the  clots 
as  far  as  possible.  Pollard  ascribes  the  grave  consequences  of  the  injection  of  the  solu- 
tion into  the  uterus  to  its  escaping  into  the  peritoneal  cavity  through  the  Fallopian  tubes, 
or  to  its  entering  the  uterine  veins  and  causing  either  embolism  or  phlegmasia  alba 
dolens  ( British  Med.  Jour.,  Apr.  24  and  May  1,  1880).  In  pulmonary  haemorrhage  a 
weak  solution  of  the  chloride  has  been  successfully  used  in  the  form  of  an  atomized 
spray.  It  may  be  employed  to  check  gastric  haemorrhage  in  any  of  the  various  conditions 
in  which  that  accident  occurs.  This  powerful  styptic  has  been  used  to  cure  aneurism , 
varicose,  sacculated,  and  others ; but,  although  the  operation  is  successful  in  coagulating 
the  blood  in  the  tumor,  it  has  so  often  happened  either  that  the  tumor  suppurated,  or 
that  purulent  infiltration  took  place  around  it,  or  that  fatal  embolism  occurred,  that  the 
operation  is  no  longer  considered  warrantable.  (Compare  Med.  Record , xxiii.  672.)  It 
has  been  most  successful  in  erectile  tumors  of  the  scalp,  and  safest  when  the  tumors, 
previously  blistered  or  not,  have  been  covered  with  compresses  wet  with  the  astringent 
solution.  Varicose  veins  have  been  treated  by  injections  of  this  preparation,  pressure 
being  maintained  between  the  point  operated  upon  and  the  heart.  In  chronic  ophthalmia 
with  varicose  enlargement  of  the  blood-vessels  it  affords  probably  the  best  chance  of 
cure.  As  a local  application  in  pharyngeal  diphtheria  it  appears  to  excel  all  other  stimu- 


LIQUOR  FERRI  CHLORIDI. 


961 


lants  and  caustics.  Goldschmidt  recommends  that  every  two  hours  should  be  given 
about  5 ounces  of  water  holding  in  solution  Gm.  1 (20  drops)  of  solution  of  perchloride 
of  iron  (at  20  degrees),  followed  by  a mouthful  or  two  of  cold  milk  ( Bull . de  Therap., 
cxv.  19),  and  that  milk  should  be  the  only  food  allowed.  In  the  same  manner  it  cures 
chilblains  and  is  advantageous  in  zona.  It  is  useful  in  repressing  fungous  granulations 
everywhere,  but  especially  in  cases  of  ingrown  toe-nail  and  in  ulceration  of  the  gums. 
It  forms  one  of  the  best  dressings  for  hospital  gangrene , hardening  the  tissues  and 
correcting  the  fetor,  and  has  a like  effect  in  sweating  of  the  feet.  A solution  of  1 part  of 
the  chloride  in  2 of  water  has  been  applied  with  alleged  curative  effects  in  certain 
scrofulous  ulcers  that  had  resisted  all  other  treatment  (_ Bull . de  Therap.,  xcix.  190).  A 
weak  solution  (one-sixteenth)  has  been  used  as  an  injection  for  the  radical  cure  of 
hydrocele.  In  prolapsus  of  the  rectum  it  has  been  efficiently  employed,  the  protruding 
bowel  being  well  painted  with  the  solution  and  then  reduced,  after  which  it  is  retained  by 
means  of  a tampon  moistened  with  a diluted  solution  of  the  medicine.  Dose , Gm. 
0.06-0.60  (npj-x),  mixed  with  syrup  and  largely  diluted. 

As  the  teeth  are  very  actively  and  injuriously  attacked  by  this  preparation,  they 
should  be  carefully  guarded  against  its  action  by  administering  the  liquid  through  a 
glass  tube  and  by  thoroughly  washing  the  mouth  after  its  use. 

Albuminate  of  iron  has  been  used  by  Donitz  in  Japan,  both  internally  and  hypodermi- 
cally, in  the  treatment  of  “ kakke  ” ( Medical  Record , xvi.  515).  The  preparation  does 
not  seem  to  have  been  approved  elsewhere. 

Ferrum  Dialysatum. — The  merits  of  dialyzed  iron  are  claimed  to  be  that  it  has  no 
styptic  taste,  mixes  well  with  water  in  any  proportion,  and  does  not  stain  the  teeth  or 
cause  constipation.  On  pharmaceutical  grounds  “ the  action  of  dialyzed  iron  upon  animal 
products  forbids  us  to  suppose  a priori  that  it  acts  like  other  ferruginous  preparations  ” 
(Depaire).  A very  competent  judge  (Bouchardat)  has  declared  that,  “ theoretically, 
dialyzed  iron  must  be  regarded  as  an  inert,  or  at  least  a very  feeble,  preparation  of  iron.” 
Personne  has  said  concerning  it,  “ It  is  completely  insoluble  in  the  gastric  juices.  When 
it  was  injected  into  a dog’s  stomach  during  active  digestion,  and  an  examination  was  made 
two  hours  later,  flakes  of  oxide  of  iron  adhered  to  the  undigested  food,  and  not  a trace  of 
iron  was  discoverable  either  in  the  gastric  liquids  or  on  the  surface  of  the  alimentary 
canal.  Its  inactivity  may  be  inferred  from  its  insolubility  ” (Archives  gen.,  7 ser.,  iv. 
491).  We  have  found  it  utterly  to  fail  in  cases  for  which  iron  appeared  to  be  the  proper 
remedy,  and  which  other  preparations  of  the  metal  caused  to  speedily  improve.  Dr.  B. 
V.  Mattison  has  shown  that  dialyzed  iron  is  probably  insoluble  in  the  gastric  secretions, 
for  he  attempted  unsuccessfully  to  dissolve  the  precipitate  of  ferric  hydrate  in  an  artificial 
gastric  juice.  Neither  could  he  find  a trace  of  iron  in  the  urine  of  patients  who  were 
taking  dialyzed  iron.  On  the  other  hand,  Dr.  Gowers  of  London  ascertained,  by  count- 
ing the  red  corpuscles  of  the  blood  before  and  after  the  use  of  the  medicine  in  anaemia, 
that  they  rose  from  46  to  102  per  cent,  of  the  normal  proportion  in  34  days  in  one  case, 
and  in  a second  case  from  26  per  cent,  of  the  normal  proportion  to  92  per  cent,  in  63 
days.  So  Dr.  Robert  Amory  of  Boston  reports  that  he  also  counted  the  red  corpuscles 
in  anaemic  cases  treated  by  this  preparation,  and  found  the  proportion  increased  in  them 
! severally  as  follows : No.  1,  from  83  to  97  per  cent. : No.  2,  from  80  to  90  per  cent. ; No. 

I 3,  from  74  to  92  per  cent. ; No.  4,  from  76  to  90  per  cent.  ; and  No.  5,  from  76  to  83  per 
cent.  In  1878,  Dr.  DaCosta  used  hypodermic  injections  of  dialyzed  iron  in  a case  of 
chlorotic  anaemia:  15  minims  of  the  pure  liquid  were  given  without  any  unpleasant  after- 
effects, and  with  a very  rapid  restoration  of  the  patient  to  health  ( Phila . Med.  Times, 
viii.  251).  In  one  or  two  cases  Dr.  Lamadrid  also  reported  the  success  of  this  treatment 
(Med.  Record , xiv.  17).  In  1879,  Luton  stated  that  25  or  30  drops  of  the  solution  may 
be  injected  without  producing  the  slightest  disturbance ; that  it  causes  a diffusive  sense 
of  warmth,  a determination  of  blood  to  the  face,  a sort  of  intoxication,  in  fine:  and  he 
compared  its  effects  to  those  of  transfusion  of  blood  ( Mouvement  med.,  Juin,  1879).  In 
1881,  Neuss  classed  this  preparation  of  iron  among  those  unsuited  to  hypodermic  use 
(Zeifsch.  f Min.  Med.,  iii.  9),  and  Kemp  found  alarming  symptoms  immediately  following 
its  use,  and  the  subsequent  formation  of  abscess  at  the  point  of  puncture  (Med.  Record, 
xiii.  481).  We  cannot  learn  that  any  later  experience  has  confirmed  the  very  favorable 
judgment  originally  expressed  of  the  hypodermic  use  of  dialyzed  iron.  The  observations 
on  which  that  judgment  rests  would  be  conclusive  of  the  haematogenous  virtues  of 
dialyzed  iron  had  we  not  the  positive  declaration  of  Hayem,  who  pursued  the  very  same 
method  of  investigation  (see  Ferrum),  that,  at  least  in  saturnine  anaemia,  “ iron  does  not 
influence  the  number,  but  only  the  development,  of  the  red  corpuscles.”  But  in  Dr. 


962 


LIQUOR  FERRI  CITRATIS . 


Prosser  James’s  opinion,  “ The  testimony  of  physicians  to  the  activity  of  dialyzed  iron  is 
so  abundant  that  it  is  unnecessary  to  add  to  it  ” ( Times  and  Gaz .,  Dec.  1882,  p.  659).  In 
relation  to  the  value  of  iron  employed  hypodermically,  it  may  be  added  that  Glaevecke 
found  the  citrate  of  iron  very  efficient  in  anaemia  wben  used  in  this  manner  in  the  dose 
of  Gm.  0.10  (2  grains)  ( Archiv  f Exper.  Pathol .,  efc.,  xvii.  466). 

Numerous  cases  have  been  published  which  appear  to  prove  that  dialyzed  iron  is  an 
efficient  antidote  to  the  poisonous  action  of  arsenic  in  the  stomach.  Dr.  Mattison,  having 
performed  some  experiments  to  determine  the  conditions  of  its  efficacy,  fgund — 1,  that  a 
solution  of  dialyzed  iron  to  be  of  value  as  an  arsenical  antidote  must  be  precipitated  by 
the  action  of  some  neutral  or  alkaline  salt ; 2,  that  such  precipitation,  and  the  consequent 
production  of  ferric  hydrate,  are  accomplished  when  this  preparation  is  taken  into  the 
stomach  ; and  3,  that,  therefore,  the  solution  of  dialyzed  iron  is  a valuable  antidote  in 
arsenical  poisoning ; 4,  that  to  ensure  the  formation  from  it  of  ferric  hydrate  its  adminis- 
tration should  be  followed  by  that  of  a teaspoonful  of  common  salt. 

Dialyzed  iron  may  be  given  internally  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.30-2.0  (gtt.  v-xxx)  several 
times  a day,  simply  diluted  with  water  or  in  some  sweetened  and  aromatic  vehicle. 

LIQUOR  FERRI  CITRATIS,  TJ.  Solution  of  Ferric  Citrate. 

Liquor  ferri  citrici , Citras  ferricus  liquidus. — Citrate  de  fer  liquide , Fr.  ; Eisencitrat- 
Losung , Fliissiges  Eisencitrat , G. 

An  aqueous  solution  of  ferric  citrate,  corresponding  to  about  7.5  per  cent,  of  metallic 
iron. 

Preparation. — Solution  of  Ferric  Sulphate,  1050  Gm  ; Citric  Acid,  300  Gm. ; Ammo- 
nia-water, 880  Cc. ; Water,  a sufficient  quantity,  to  make  1000  Gm.  Mix  the  ammonia- 
water  with  3000  Cc.  of  cold  water,  and  the  solution  of  ferric  sulphate  with  10,000  Cc.  of 
cold  water.  Add  the  latter  solution  slowly  to  the  diluted  ammonia-water,  constantly 
stirring.  Pour  the  mixture  on  a wet  muslin  strainer,  and  allow  the  liquid  to  run  off  and 
the  precipitate  to  drain.  Then  remove  the  moist  mass  from  the  strainer,  mix  it  well 
with  6000  Cc.  of  cold  water,  again  pour  it  on  the  strainer,  and  let  it  drain.  Repeat  this 
washing  with  several  successive  portions  of  cold  water  in  the  same  manner,  until  the 
washings  cease  to  produce  more  than  a slight  cloudiness  with  barium  chloride  test-solu- 
tion. Then  allow  the  precipitate  to  drain  completely,  transfer  it  to  a porcelain  dish,  add 
the  citric  acid,  and  heat  the  mixture,  on  a water-bath,  to  60°  C.  (140°  F.),  stirring  con- 
stantly, until  the  precipitate  is  dissolved.  Lastly,  filter  the  liquid,  and  evaporate  it  at 
the  above-mentioned  temperature,  until  it  weighs  1000  Gm. — U.  S. 

To  prepare  1 pint  of  solution  of  ferric  citrate  the  following  quantities  should  be 
used:  16  fluidounces  of  solution  of  ferric  sulphate  diluted  with  12  pints  of  water,  171 
fluidounces  of  ammonia-water  diluted  with  4 pints  of  water,  and  64  av.  ozs.  of  citric 
acid.  j 

The  first  part  of  the  process  consists  in  preparing  ferric  hydroxide ; the  reaction  has  ' 
been  explained  (see  page  734).  The  hydroxide  retains  a considerable  quantity  of  water, 
so  that  on  the  addition  of  citric  acid  the  mixture  becomes  liquid  as  the  acid  is  dissolved 
and  ferric  citrate  is  formed.  The  solution  is  aided  by  the  application  of  heat,  which  should 
never  exceed  66°  C.  (151°  F.),  but  is  best  kept  at  60°  C.  (140°  F.)  to  prevent  decompo- 
sition. The  digestion  must  be  continued  for  several  hours  until  the  acid  has  taken  up  as 
much  iron  as  can  combine  with  it,  when  it  is  filtered  and  evaporated  as  directed. 

Properties. — The  solution  is  inodorous,  has  a dark -brown  color,  a slightly  ferruginous 
taste,  an  acid  reaction,  and  the  specific  gravity  1.250  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.).  When  evapo- 
rated spontaneously  or  at  a moderate  heat  in  thin  layers  it  forms  transparent,  garnet- 
red  scales,  which  are  readily  detached  from  the  glass  or  porcelain  plate ; 100  parts  of  the 
solution  should  yield  42.5  to  43  parts  of  scales.  The  solution  is  rendered  darker,  but  is 
not  precipitated,  by  alkalies  in  the  cold,  but  when  boiled  with  potassa  or  soda  a red-brown 
precipitate  of  ferric  hydroxide  is  produced,  and  the  filtrate,  if  neutralized  with  acetic 
acid  and  then  boiled  with  test-solution  of  calcium  chloride,  yields  a white  granular  pre- 
cipitate of  calcium  citrate.  The  solution  gives  with  potassium  ferrocyanide  a greenish- 
blue  precipitate,  which  becomes  dark-blue  on  the  addition  of  hydrochloric  acid. 

Tests. — On  boiling  the  solution  with  potassa  or  soda,  ammoniacal  vapors  should  not 
be  given  off.  On  the  addition  of  a few  drops  of  hydrochloric  acid,  followed  by  a con- 
centrated solution  of  potassium  acetate,  a crystalline  precipitate  should  not  be  produced 
(absence  of  tartrate).  On  evaporating  the  solution  to  dryness  and  igniting  the  residue, 
the  ash  left  should  not  have  an  alkaline  reaction  (alkalies).  If  1.12  (1.1176)  Gm.  of 


LIQUOR  FERRI  ET  AMMONII  A CETA TIS. — FERRI  NITRATIS. 


963 


the  solution  be  introduced  into  a glass-stoppered  bottle  (having  a capacity  of  about  100 
Cc.),  together  with  15  Cc.  of  water  and  2 Cc.  of  hydrochloric  acid,  and  after  the  addi- 
tion of  1 Gm.  of  potassium  iodide  the  mixture  be  kept  for  half  an  hour  at  a tempera- 
ture of  40°  C.  (104°  F.),  then  cooled,  and  mixed  with  a few  drops  of  starch  test-solu- 
tion, it  should  require  about  15  Cc.  of  decinormal  sodium  thiosulphate  solution  to 
discharge  the  blue  or  greenish  color  of  the  liquid  (each  Cc.  of  the  volumetric  solution 
indicating  0.5  per  cent,  of  metallic  iron). — U.  S. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  solution  forms  a convenient  mode  of  dispensing  citrate 
of  iron.  Bose,  Gm.  0.60  (n^x)  or  Gm.  0.30  (gr.  v)  of  the  salt. 

LIQUOR  FERRI  ET  AMMONII  ACETATIS,  77.  S.— Solution  of  Iron 

and  Ammonium  Acetate. 

Mistura  ferri  et  ammonii  acetatis , U.  S.  P.,  1880. — Basham's  Mixture. 

Preparation. — Tincture  of  Ferric  Chloride,  20  Cc. ; Diluted  Acetic  Acid,  30  Cc. ; 
Solution  of  Ammonium  Acetate,  200  Cc. ; Aromatic  Elixir,  100  Cc. ; Glycerin,  120  Cc. ; 
Water,  a sufficient  quantity,  to  make  1000  Cc.  To  the  solution  of  ammonium  acetate 
(which  should  not  be  alkaline)  add,  successively,  the  diluted  acetic  acid,  the  tincture  of 
ferric  chloride,  the  aromatic  elixir,  and  the  glycerin,  and  lastly,  enough  water  to  make  the 
product  measure  1000  Cc.  This  preparation  should  be  freshly  made  when  wanted.—  U.  S. 

To  prepare  1 pint  of  Basham's  mixture  would  require  154  minims  of  tincture  of  ferric 
chloride,  230  minims  of  diluted  acetic  acid,  3 fluidounces  and  96  minims  of  solution  of 
ammonium  acetate,  13  fluidrachms  of  aromatic  elixir,  2 fluidounces  of  glycerin,  and 
sufficient  water  to  bring  the  volume  up  to  16  fluidounces. 

This  preparation  has  been  the  cause  of  much  annoyance  to  the  pharmacist  on  account 
of  its  instability  as  prepared  by  the  formula  of  1880.  As  now  made  it  keeps  perfectly  ; 
although  the  Pharmacopoeia  directs  that  it  shall  be  freshly  made  when  wanted,  this  is 
scarcely  necessary  : we  have  found  it  to  remain  unchanged  for  a period  of  seventy-five 
days,  exposed  to  diffused  light  at  summer  temperature.  The  use  of  glycerin  in  place 
of  simple  syrup  was  first  suggested  by  H.  R.  LeValley  ( Drugg . Circ.,  1887). 

Ferric  chloride  and  ammonium  acetate  mutually  decompose  each  other,  forming  ferric 
acetate  and  ammonium  chloride,  some  of  the  .ammonium  acetate  remaining  unchanged. 
The  deep-red  color  of  the  liquid  is  due  to  the  newly-formed  ferric  acetate. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  preparation  has  long  been  used  in  the  treatment  of  vari- 
ous forms  of  albuminuria,  but  chiefly  in  that  which  attends  tubular  nephritis.  Its 
recommendations  are  its  agreeable  appearance,  its  not  unpleasant  taste,  its  acceptability 
by  the  stomach,  and  its  diuretic  action.  Bose,  from  15-30  Cc.  (1  to  1 fluidounce). 

LIQUOR  FERRI  NITRATIS,  77.  S.~ Solution  of  Ferric  Nitrate. 

Liquor  ferri pernitratis,  Br. — Solution  of  pernitr ate  of  iron,  E. ; Azotate  ( Pernitrate ) de 
fer  liquide , Fr. ; Eisennitrat-Losung,  Ferrinitrat-Losung , G. 

An  aqueous  solution  of  ferric  nitrate,  Fe2(N03)6;  molecular  weight  483.1 — containing 
about  6.2  per  cent,  of  the  anhydrous  salt,  and  corresponding  to  about  1.4  per  cent,  of 
metallic  iron. 

Preparation. — Solution  of  Ferric  Sulphate,  180  Gm. ; Ammonia-water,  160  Cc. ; 
Nitric  Acid,  71  Gm. ; Distilled  Water,  Water,  each,  a sufficient  quantity  to  make  1000 
Gm.  Mix  the  ammonia- water  with  500  Cc.  of  cold  water,  and  the  solution  of  ferric  sul- 
phate with  1500  Cc.  of  cold  water.  Add  the  latter  solution  slowly  to  the  diluted  ammo- 
nia-water, constantly  stirring.  Let  the  mixture  stand  until  the  precipitate  has  subsided 
as  far  as  practicable,  and  then  decant  the  supernatant  liquid.  Add  to  the  precipitate 
1000  Cc.  of  cold  water,  mix  well,  and  again  set  the  mixture  aside,  as  before.  Repeat 
the  washing  with  successive  portions  of  cold  water,  in  the  same  manner,  until  the  wash- 
ings produce  but  a slight  cloudiness  with  barium  chloride  test-solution.  Transfer  the 
washed  ferric  hydroxide  to  a wet  muslin  strainer,  and  let  it  drain  thoroughly.  Then  put  it 
into  a porcelain  dish,  add  the  nitric  acid,  and  stir  with  a glass  rod  until  a clear  solution 
is  obtained.  Finally,  add  enough  distilled  water  to  make  the  finished  product  weigh  1000 
Gm.  Filter,  if  necessary — U.  S 

To  prepare  1 pint  of  solution  of  ferric  nitrate  would  require  21  fluidounces  of  solution 
ol  ferric  sulphate,  2f  fluidounces  of  amm.onia-water,  and  405  minims  of  nitric  acid  ; the 
erric-sulphate  solution  should  be  diluted  with  1 \ pints  of  water,  and  the  ammonia-water 
with  8 ounces  of  water. 


964 


LIQUOR  FERRI  NITRATIS. 


Take  of  fine  iron  wire,  free  from  rust,  1 ounce  ; nitric  acid  4J  fluidounces ; distilled 
water  a sufficiency.  Dilute  the  nitric  acid  with  16  ounces  of  the  water,  introduce  the 
iron  wire  into  the  mixture,  and  leave  them  in  contact  until  the  metal  is  dissolved,  taking 
care  to  moderate  the  action,  should  it  become  too  violent,  by  the  addition  of  a little  more 
distilled  water.  Filter  the  solution,  and  add  to  it  as  much  distilled  water  as  will  make 
its  bulk  lj  pints  (30  fluidounces).  — Br. 

Both  formulas  aim  at  the  production  of  ferric  nitrate,  Fe2(N03)6.  If  the  directions  of 
the  British  Pharmacopoeia  are  followed,  the  iron  is  taken  up,  with  the  evolution  of  red 
vapors,  the  reaction  being  as  follows:  Fe24-8HN03  yields  Fe2(N03)6+2N04-4H20. 

Considerable  heat  is  produced,  and  may  rise  to  such  a degree  that  nitric  acid  is  vapor- 
ized ; the  reaction  must  therefore  be  closely  watched,  and,  if  it  should  become  too  violent, 
moderated  by  the  addition  of  some  cold  water.  This  difficulty  was  sought  to  be  avoided 
in  the  process  of  the  U.  S.  P.  1870  by  first  forming  ferrous  nitrate  and  converting  this 
into  the  ferric  salt.  Berzelius  observed  that,  besides  ferrous  nitrate,  ammonium  nitrate 
is  also  formed  and  no  gas  evolved  if  admixture  of  iron,  water,  and  nitric  acid  is  kept  below 
the  temperature  of  50°  C.  (122°  F.),  when  2Fe2-J- 10HNO3  yields  4Fe(N03)2+NH4N03 
4-3H20.  The  formation  of  ammonia  is  a secondary  reaction,  and  depends  upon  the  action 
of  the  nascent  hydrogen  upon  the  excess  of  nitric  acid ; it  is  lessened,  but  not  entirely 
prevented,  by  a stronger  acid  and  at  a higher  temperature,  and  augmented  as  the  temper- 
ature and  the  acid  strength  are  decreased,  sometimes  to  such  a degree  that  considerable 
ferrous  hydroxide  is  separated.  It  follows  from  this  that  solutions  thus  prepared  are  apt 
to  vary  in  their  composition. 

The  present  formula  of  the  U.  S.  P.  is  essentially  that  of  F.  T.  Bower  (1876).  Ferric 
hydroxide  is  first  prepared,  and,  after  washing  it  well,  is  dissolved  in  the  nitric  acid.  Care 
should  be  taken  that  the  latter  has  the  proper  specific  gravity ; weaker  acids  will  yield 
darker-colored  basic  compounds,  some  of  which  are  insoluble  or  sparingly  soluble  in  water. 

Ordway  (1865)  found  that  weak  solutions  of  ferrous  nitrate , which  are  free  from  excess 
of  acid,  may  be  concentrated  at  60°  C.  (140°  F.),  but  must  then  be  evaporated  at  a lower 
temperature  to  prevent  oxidation.  The  green  crystals  obtained  in  the  cold  cannot  be  dried 
without  decomposition.  Ferric  nitrate  has  been  obtained  in  deliquescent  colorless  or  pur- 
plish crystals,  which  are  cubes  when  containing  12H20,  or  prisms  with  18H20. 

Properties. — The  solution  has  a reddish-brown,  or,  if  the  acid  is  somewhat  in 
excess,  a pale-amber,  color,  which  becomes  darker  on  heating  and  lighter  again  on  cool- 
ing. It  is  perfectly  transparent,  inodorous,  has  a strongly  styptic  taste  and  an  acid 
reaction,  and  remains  unaltered  on  exposure  to  light  and  air,  except  in  the  presence  of 
organic  compounds,  by  many  of  which  it  is  deoxidized.  It  gives  a red-brown  precipitate 
with  ammonia  and  other  alkalies  and  alkali  carbonates,  and  a dark-blue  precipitate  with 
ootassium  ferrocyanide.  When  mixed  with  a solution  of  ferrous  sulphate,  and  then  with 
strong  sulphuric  acid,  it  assumes  a blackish-brown  color.  The  specific  gravity  is  1.050 
U.  S.  1.107  Br.  F. 

Tests. — Potassium  ferricyanide,  silver  nitrate,  and  barium  nitrate  should  not  disturb 
the  solution,  proving  the  absence  of  ferrous  salt,  chloride,  and  sulphate.  If  precipitated 
with  an  excess  of  ammonia,  the  filtrate  evaporated  to  dryness,  and  the  salt  heated  to  red- 
ness, no  residue  should  be  left  (other  metals).  “ If  1.12  (1.1176)  Gm.  of  the  solution  be 
introduced  into  a glass-stoppered  bottle  (having  a capacity  of  about  100  Cc.),  together 
with  15  Cc.  of  water  and  2 Cc.  of  hydrochloric  acid,  and,  after  the  addition  of  1 Gm.  of 
potassium  iodide,  the  mixture  be  allowed  to  stand  for  half  an  hour  at  a temperature  of 
40°  C.  (104°  F.),  and  then  allowed  to  cool  and  mixed  with  a few  drops  of  starch  test- 
solution,  it  should  require  about  2.8  Cc.  of  decinormal  sodium  thiosulphate  solution  to 
discharge  the  blue  or  greenish  color  of  the  liquid  (each  Cc.  of  the  volumetric  solution 
consumed  corresponding  to  0.5  per  cent,  of  metallic  iron).”  U.  S.  The  ferric  oxide  ob- 
tained from  a fluidrachm  of  the  solution  by  precipitating  with  ammonia,  washing,  and 
igniting,  is  required  to  weigh  2.6  grains. — Br.  P. 

Action  and  Uses. — Solution  of  the  nitrate  differs  in  its  properties  from  the  other 
acid  compounds  of  iron.  It  is  much  more  astringent  than  the  vegetable  acid  salts  or 
than  the  iodide  of  iron,  and  less  harsh  than  the  sulphuric  and  muriatic  acid  compounds. 
It  is  used  chiefly  in  chronic  diarrhoea  dependent  upon  debility  of  the  system  or  following 
dysentery,  when  no  febrile  complication  exists.  It  is  also  profitably  employed  in  leucor- 
rhoea  affecting  feeble  and  lymphatic  females,  both  internally  and  locally,  and  in  menor- 
rhagia occurring  under  similar  conditions.  The  dose  is  about  Gm.  0.60  (gtt.  x),  largely 
diluted.  As  an  injection  Gm.  0.60-2  (gtt.  x-xxx)  in  a fluidounce  of  water  may  be 
employed. 


LIQUOR  FERRI  SUBSULPHATIS. 


965 


. LIQUOR  FERRI  SUBSULPHATIS,  U.  Solution  of  Ferric  Sub- 
sulphate. 

Solution  of  basic  ferric  sulphate , Solution  of  persulphate  of  iron,  Mouse! s solution,  E. ; 
Liqueur  hemostatique  de  Monsel,  Fr. ; Basisch-schwefelsaure  Eisenoxy  dlo  sung,  Mouse!  s 
Eisenlosung,  G. 

An  aqueous  solution  of  basic  ferric  sulphate  (of  variable  chemical  composition), 
representing  about  13.6  per  cent,  of  metallic  iron. 

Preparation. — Ferrous  Sulphate,  in  clear  crystals,  675  6m.;  Sulphuric  Acid,  65 
Gm. ; Nitric  Acid,  Distilled  Water,  each,  a sufficient  quantity  to  make  1000  Gm.  Add 
the  sulphuric  acid  to  500  Cc.  of  water  in  a capacious  porcelain  dish,  heat  the  mixture  to 
nearly  100°  C.  (212°  F.),  and  then  add  65  Gm.  of  nitric  acid,  and  mix  well.  Divide  the 
coarsely  powdered  ferrous  sulphate  into  four  equal  portions,  and  add  one  of  these  por- 
tions. at  a time,  to  the  hot  liquid,  stirring  after  each  addition  until  effervescence  ceases. 
When  all  of  the  ferrous  sulphate  has  been  dissolved,  add  a few  drops  of  nitric  acid  and 
if  this  causes  a further  evolution  of  red  fumes,  continue  to  add  nitric  acid,  a few  drops  at 
a time,  until  it  no  longer  causes  red  fumes  to  be  evolved  ; then  boil  the  solution  until  it 
assumes  a ruby-red  color  and  is  free  from  nitrous  odor.  Lastly,  add  enough  distilled 
water  to  make  the  product  weigh  1000  Gm.  Keep  the  product  in  well-stoppered 
bottles,  in  a moderately  warm  place  (not  under  22°  C.  or  71.6°  F.),  protected  from  the 
light. — U.  S. 

Note. — Solution  of  subsulphate  of  iron  is  to  be  dispensed  when  solution  of  persulphate 
of  iron  is  prescribed  by  the  physician. 

To  prepare  one  pint  of  Monsel’s  solution  would  require  1 pound  and  650  grains  of  fer- 
rous sulphate,  736  grains  each  of  sulphuric  and  nitric  acid  and  a sufficient  quantity  of 
distilled  water,  12  fluidounces  being  used  to  dilute  the  acids  in  the  first  instance. 

This  process  is  a slight  modification  of  that  proposed  by  Dr.  Squibb  (1860).  On  intro- 
ducing the  ferrous  sulphate  in  small  portions  into  the  heated  acids  a black  color  is  pro- 
duced from  the  union  of  nitric  oxide  with  ferrous  sulphate,  which  disappears  with  the 
copious  evolution  of  red  nitrous  vapors  as  fast  as  the  sulphate  dissolves  in  the  hot  liquid. 
The  mixture  foams  most  toward  the  end  of  the  process,  and  after  the  liquid  has  again 
subsided  a little  of  it  should  be  tested  with  nitric  acid  to  ensure  its  complete  oxidation. 
The  amount  of  sulphuric  acid  used  is  insufficient  for  forming  the  normal  ferric  sulphate. 
A basic  or  oxysulphate  is  the  result,  which  has  the  composition  Fe40(S04)5+ Aq,  or 
5Fe2(S04)3.Fe2(0H)6.  The  mineral  copiapite  is  a crystallized  hydrate  of  the  same  com- 
bination. Other  more  basic  ferric  sulphates  are  known,  some  being  soluble,  others  insol- 
uble in  water. 

Properties. — Monsel’s  solution  is  a deep  red-brown  liquid,  being  nearly  of  a syrupy 
consistence,  and  of  the  spec.  grav.  1.550.  It  is  almost  inodorous,  has  a very  astringent 
but  not  caustic  taste,  and  an  acid  reaction,  and  mixes  with  water  and  alcohol  in  all  pro- 
portions without  decomposition.  On  dropping  sulphuric  acid  into  it  the  color  becomes 
lighter,  and  with  a larger  quantity  (£  volume)  of  the  acid  a separation  of  whitish  anhy- 
drous ferric  sulphate  takes  place  (difference  from  solution  of  tersulphate).  Diluted  with 
distilled  water,  it  yields  a red-brown  precipitate  with  ammonia  or  potassa,  a dark-blue  one 
with  potassium  ferrocyanide,  and  a white  one  insoluble  in  nitric  or  hydrochloric  acid  with 
barium  chloride.  When  evaporated  at  a moderate  heat  upon  a glass  or  porcelain  plate,  it 
yields  transparent,  deliquescent  scales,  and  at  a somewhat  higher  temperature  is  converted 
into  a yellowish  powder  which  is  less  deliquescent. 

Tests. — The  solution,  diluted  with  5 parts  of  water,  should  be  colored  olive-brown, 
but  not  blue,  with  freshly-prepared  solution  of  potassium  ferricyanide,  and  it  should  not 
yield  a white  precipitate  with  silver  nitrate  (absence  of  ferrous  salt  and  chloride).  On 
adding  a clear  crystal  of  ferrous  sulphate  to  a cooled  mixture  of  equal  volumes  of  concen- 
trated sulphuric  acid  and  a diluted  portion  of  the  solution,  the  crystal  should  not  become 
brown,  nor  should  there  be  a brownish-black  zone  developed  around  it  (absence  of  nitric 
acid).  “If  1.12  (1.1176)  Gm.  of  the  solution  be  introduced  into  a glass-stoppered  bottle 
(having  a capacity  of  about  100  Cc.),  together  with  15  Cc.  of  water  and  2 Cc.  of  hydro- 
chloric acid,  and,  after  the  addition  of  1 Gm.  of  potassium  iodide,  the  mixture  be  allowed 
to  stand  for  half  an  hour  at  a temperature  of  40°  C.  (104°  F.),  and  then  allowed  to  cool, 
and  mixed  with  a few  drops  of  starch  test-solution,  it  should  require  about  27.2  Cc.  of 
decinormal  sodium  thiosulphate  solution  to  discharge  the  blue  or  greenish  color  of  the 
liquid  (each  Cc.  of  the  volumetric  solution  consumed  corresponding  to  0.5  per  cent,  of 
metallic  iron).”—  U.  S. 


9 66 


LIQUOR  FERRI  TERSULPHA  TIS. 


Action  and  Uses. — This  preparation  is  chiefly  used  as  a local  styptic  in  cases  of  hem- 
orrhage from  parts  not.readily  subjected  to  pressure,  as  the  nasal  cavities,  the  sockets  from 
which  teeth  have  been  extracted,  the  uterus,  vagina,  rectum,  etc.  It  has  the  advantage 
of  being  less  irritating  than  other  acid  salts  of  iron.  But  its  very  power  of  coagulat- 
ing blood  may  be  mischievous.  A child  had  an  aneurism  of  the  palmar  arch  following 
a wound.  It  was  injected  with  about  ten  drops  of  Monsel’s  solution.  Gangrene  fol- 
lowed, and  the  hand  had  to  be  amputated  (Keen,  Med.  News , xl.  298).  The  solution  is 
generally  applied  by  means  of  a wooden  or  glass  brush  or  a fragment  of  compact  sponge. 

A fluidrachm  of  the  solution  in  an  ounce  of  water  has  been  used  with  an  ear  syringe  to 
arrest  epistaxis.  Where  pressure  can  also  be  made  it  should  not  be  omitted.  An  atom- 
ized solution  of  it  has  been  found  successful  in  some  cases  of  haemoptysis.  For  this  pur- 
pose Gm.  0.06-0.60  (ny-x)  should  be  added  to  Gm.  32.  (a  fluidounce)  of  distilled 
water.  Internally,  it  may  be  prescribed  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.30-0.60  (npv-x),  properly 
diluted.  The  solution  may  be  evaporated  to  dryness,  and  the  powdered  residue  given  in 
pills  containing  about  one  grain  of  the  salt.  It  may  be  used  in  chronic  and  in  acute 
watery  diarrhoea. 

LIQUOR  FERRI  TERSULPHATIS,  U.  S.— Solution  of  Ferric 

Sulphate. 

Liquor  ferri  persulphatis , Br. — Solution  of  normal  ferric  sulphate , Solution  of  persul- 
phate of  iron,  E. ; Persulfate  de  fer  liquide , Fr. ; Ferrisulfatlosung , Schwefelsaure  Eisenoxyd- 
Losung , G. 

An  aqueous  solution  of  normal  ferric  sulphate  Fe2(S04)3,  containing  about  28.7  per 
cent,  of  the  salt,  and  representing  about  8 per  cent,  of  metallic  iron. 

Preparation. — Ferrous  Sulphate,  in  clear  crystals,  400  Gm. ; Sulphuric  Acid,  78 
Gm. ; Nitric  Acid,  Distilled  Water,  each,  a sufficient  quantity,  to  make  1000  Gm.  Add 
the  sulphuric  acid  to  200  Cc.  of  water  in  a capacious  porcelain  dish,  heat  the  mixture 
to  nearly  100°  C.  (212°  F.),  then  add  55  Gm.  of  nitric  acid,  and  mix  well.  Divide  the 
coarsely  powdered  ferrous  sulphate  into  four  equal  portions,  and  add  these  portions, 
one  at  a time,  to  the  hot  liquid,  stirring  after  each  addition  until  effervescence  ceases. 
When  all  of  the  ferrous  sulphate  has  been  dissolved,  add  a few  drops  of  nitric  acid,  and, 
if  this  causes  a further  evolution  of  red  fumes,  continue  to  add  nitric  acid,  a few  drops 
at  a time,  until  it  no  longer  causes  red  fumes  to  be  evolved;  then  boil  the  solution  until 
it  assumes  a reddish-brown  color  and  is  free  from  nitrous  fumes.  Lastly,  add  enough 
distilled  water  to  make  the  product  weigh  1000  Gm.  Filter,  if  necessary. — U.  S. 

To  prepare  1 pint  of  solution  of  ferric  sulphate  would  require  8f  av.  ozs.  of  ferrous 
sulphate,  752  grains  of  sulphuric  acid,  530  grains  of  nitric  acid,  and  a sufficient  quantity  ; 

of  distilled  water,  of  which  4^  fluidounces  should  be  used  for  dilution  of  the  acids. 

Take  of  sulphate  of  iron  8 ounces ; sulphuric  acid,  nitric  acid,  each  6 fluidrachms ; 
distilled  water  12  fluidounces  or  a sufficiency.  Add  the  sulphuric  acid  to  10  ounces  of  | 
the  wrater,  and  dissolve  the  sulphate  of  iron  in  the  mixture  with  the  aid  of  heat.  Mix 
the  nitric  acid  with  the  remaining  2 ounces  of  the  water,  and  add  to  this  acid,  warmed,  the 
solution  of  sulphate  of  iron.  Concentrate  the  whole  by  boiling,  until,  by  the  sudden 
disengagement  of  ruddy  vapors,  the  liquid  ceases  to  be  black  and  acquires  a red  color. 

A drop  of  the  solution  is  now  to  be  tested  with  red  prussiate  of  potash,  and  if  a blue 
precipitate  forms,  a few  additional  drops  of  nitric  acid  should  be  added  and  the  boiling 
renewed,  in  order  that  the  whole  of  the  sulphate  may  be  converted  into  persulphate  of 
iron.  When  the  solution  is  cold,  make  the  quantity  11  fluidounces  (Imperial  measure) 
by  the  addition,  if  necessary,  of  distilled  water. — Br. 

The  reaction  which  takes  place  in  these  processes  is  precisely  the  same  as  in  making 
the  subsulphate  of  iron,  the  only  difference  being  that  the  sulphuric  acid  is  used  in  suffi- 
cient quantity  to  form  normal  ferric  sulphate,  Fe2(S04)3.  The  reaction  is  explained  by 
the  equation  6FeS04  + 3H2S04  + 2HN03  = 3Fe2(S04)3  + N202  -f  4H20.  From  80  parts 
of  ferrous  sulphate,  200  parts  U.  S.  (160  parts  P.  G.,  158.5  parts  Br.)  of  the  solution  are 
prepared. 

Properties. — Solution  of  normal  ferric  sulphate  is  a dark  reddish-brown  liquid, 
having  no  odor,  a very  astringent  and  at  the  same  time  acid  taste,  and  an  acid  reaction. 

It  is  miscible  in  all  proportions  with  alcohol  and  water  without  causing  decomposition. 

Its  behavior  to  ammonia,  potassium  ferrocyanide,  and  barium  chloride  is  the  same  as  that 
of  the  subsulphate,  but  for  the  precipitation  of  the  anhydrous  salt  about  3 volumes 
(instead  of  £ volume)  of  sulphuric  acid  is  required.  The  pharmacopceial  solution  con- 


LIQUOR  GUTTA-PERCHA.— HYDRARGYRI  NITRATES. 


967 


tains  28.76  per  cent.  U.  S.,  36.3  per  cent.,  Br.,  of  anhydrous  ferric  sulphate,  and  has  the 
spec.  grav.  1.320  U.  S.,  1.441  Br.  Hager  gives  the  following  densities  for  solutions  con- 
taining of  the  anhydrous  salt — 

25  26  27  28  28.5  29  29.5  30  31  32  per  cent. 

1.271  1.284  1.297  1.310  1.316  1.323  1.330  1.337  1.351  1.365. 

Tests. — The  absence  of  ferrous  salt,  chloride,  nitric  acid,  and  foreign  salts  is  deter- 
mined in  precisely  the  same  manner  as  for  the  subsulphate  (see  above).  “If  1.12 
(1.1176)  Gm.  of  the  solution  be  introduced  into  a glass-stoppered  bottle  (having  a 
capacity  of  about  100  Cc.),  together  with  15  Cc.  of  water  and  2 Cc.  of  hydrochloric 
acid,  and,  after  the  addition  of  1 Gm.  of  potassium  iodide,  the  mixture  be  allowed  to 
stand  for  half  an  hour  at  a temperature  of  40°  C.  (104°  F.),  and  then  allowed  to  cool, 
and  mixed  with  a few  drops  of  starch  test-solution,  it  should  require  about  16  Cc.  of 
decinormal  sodium  thiosulphate  solution  to  discharge  the  blue  or  greenish  color  of  the 
liquid  (each  Cc.  of  the  volumetric  solution  consumed  corresponding  to  0.5  per  cent,  of 
metallic  iron).” — U.  S.  1 fluidrachm  of  the  solution,  diluted  with  water  and  mixed  with 
an  excess  of  ammonia-water,  should  yield  a precipitate  which,  when  washed  and  ignited, 
weighs  11.44  grains. — Br. 

Action  and  Uses. — It  may  be  used  for  the  same  purpose  as  the  subsulphate,  but 
is  not  as  eligible,  because  it  is  more  irritating  and  less  astringent. 

LIQUOR  GUTTA-PERCHA,  Br. — Solution  of  Gutta-percha. 

Liqueur  de  gutta-percha , Fr. ; Guttapercha- Losung,  Traumaticin,  G. 

Preparation. — Gutta-percha,  in  thin  slices,  1 ounce ; Chloroform,  8 fluidounces  ; 
Lead  Carbonate,  in  fine  powder,  1 ounce.  Add  the  gutta-percha  to  6 fluidounces  of 
chloroform  in  a stoppered  bottle,  and  shake  them  together  frequently  until  solution  has 
been  effected.  Then  add  the  lead  carbonate  previously  mixed  with  the  remainder  of 
the  chloroform,  and,  having  several  times  shaken  the  whole  together,  set  the  mixture 
aside,  and  let  it  remain  at  rest  until  the  insoluble  matter  has  subsided.  Lastly,  decant 
the  clear  liquid,  and  keep  it  in  a well-stoppered  bottle. — Br. 

This  preparation  has  been  dismissed  from  the  present  edition  of  the  U.  S.  P. ; the 
formula  of  1880  was  almost  identical  with  the  above,  the  only  difference  being  in  the 
relative  proportions  by  weight — the  U.  S.  P.  1880  directing  9 parts  of  gutta-percha  to 
91  of  chloroform,  while  the  Br.  Ph.  orders  1 to  11.92  or  9 to  107.2  parts. 

Crude  gutta-percha  does  not  yield  a clear  solution  with  chloroform,  but  on  standing 
the  impurities  will  rise  to  the  surface  more  rapidly  if,  according  to  Maschke  (1857),  the 
solution  is  agitated  with  1 or  H per  cent,  of  water.  Hodgson  (1861)  proposed  lead  car- 
bonate with  the  same  .object  in  view,  the  impurities  subsiding  with  the  lead  compound. 
Other  heavy  and  insoluble  compounds  may  be  used  with  the  same  result,  of  rendering 
the  solution  clear  and  almost  or  entirely  colorless.  Other  solvents,  which  are  cheaper 
than  chloroform,  are  employed  for  the  purification  of  gutta-percha  on  the  large  scale 
(see  page  801). 

Action  and  Uses. — The  various  applications  of  this  solution  are  enumerated 
under  Gutta-Percha.  They  consist,  briefly,  in  the  adhesive  and  protective  qualities 
of  the  film  formed  by  the  rapid  evaporation  of  the  solvent,  and  the  faculty  with  which 
the  solution  is  applied. 

LIQUOR  HYDRARGYRI  NITRATIS,  U.  S.— Solution  of  Mercuric 

Nitrate. 

Liquor  hydrargyri  nitratis  acidus , Br.  ; Liquor  hydrargyri  nitrici  oxydati , Hydrargyrum 
oxydatum  nitricum  solutum. — Acid  solution  of  nitrate  of  mercury , Solution  of  per  nitrate  of 
mercury.  E. ; Azotate  ( Nitrate ) mercurique  liquide,  Nitrate  acide  (Per nitrate)  de  mercure , 
Ir. : Mercurinitrat-Losung,  Quecksilberoxydnitr  at- Losung,  G. 

A liquid  containing  about  60  per  cent,  of  mercuric  nitrate  Hg(N03)2,  together  with 
about  11  per  cent,  of  free  nitric  acid. 

Preparation. — Bed  Mercuric  Oxide  40  Gm. ; Nitric  Acid  45  Gm. ; Distilled  Water 
15  Gm. ; to  make  100  Gm.  Mix  the  nitric  acid  with  the  distilled  water,  and  dissolve 
the^red  mercuric  oxide  in  the  mixture.  Keep  the  solution  in  glass-stoppered  bottles. 

The  foregoing  formula  will  yield  a little  over  II  fluidounces  (1.61+)  of  solution. 


968 


LIQUOR  HYDRA RGYRI  NITRATIS. 


Take  of  mercury  4 ounces;  nitric  acid  5 fluidounces  ; distilled  water  \\  fluidounces. 
Mix  the  nitric  acid  with  water  in  a flask,  and  dissolve  the  mercury  in  the  mixture  with- 
out the  application  of  heat.  Boil  gently  for  fifteen  minutes,  cool,  and  preserve  the  solu- 
tion in  a stoppered  bottle. — Br. 

Mercury  100  parts  ; nitric  acid  150  parts  ; water  50  parts.  Dissolve  and  evaporate  to 
225  parts. — F.  Cod. 

The  mercury  is  dissolved  in  the  two  last  processes  by  the  action  of  nitric  acid,  with 
the  extrication  of  red  nitrous  vapors  to  form  mercuric  nitrate ; 3Hg2  -f-  16HN03  yields 
6Hg  (N03)2  -+■  2N202  + 8H20.  It  is  necessary  to  apply  some  heat,  particularly  at  the 
close  of  the  reaction,  to  convert  into  mercuric  any  mercurous  salt  which  may  be  present. 
The  United  States  process  yields  the  same  solution  more  rapidly,  and  involves  simply  a 
combination  of  the  mercuric  oxide  with  nitric  acid,  water  being  liberated  ; HgO  + 2HN03 
yields  llg(N03)2  + H20.  The  present  pharmacopoeial  solution  is  a little  weaker  than 
that  of  1870,  the  latter  requiring  43.66  parts  of  mercuric  oxide  and  48.66  parts  of  nitric 
acid  to  obtain  100  parts;  it  was  nearly  identical  with  that  of  the  French  Codex,  which 
represents  43.5  per  cent,  of  mercuric  oxide  against  about  35  per  cent,  of  the  British 
preparation. 

Properties. — The  solution  is  colorless,  and  has  a slight  odor  of  nitric  acid,  a strong 
acid  reaction,  and  a caustic  and  metallic  taste.  Its  specific  gravity  is  2.100  U S.  P., 
about  2.0  Br.  A crystal  of  ferrous  sulphate  dropped  into  it  soon  becomes  surrounded  with 
a dark-colored  liquid  (nitrate).  Dropped  upon  copper,  a deposit  of  mercury  is  at  once  pro- 
duced, and  the  diluted  solution  gives  a yellow  precipitate  with  soda  or  potassa  solution 
and  a scarlet-red  precipitate  with  potassium  iodide  ; this  latter  precipitate  is  soluble  in  an 
excess  of  the  precipitant.  Nearly  one-fourth  of  the  nitric  acid  is  uncombined,  and  pre- 
vents the  separation  of  a basic  salt  on  dilution  with  water.  Evaporated  by  heat  on  a 
glass  or  porcelain  dish,  a white  salt  is  left,  which  on  the  further  application  of  heat  is 
decomposed,  assuming  a yellow,  red,  and  brown  color,  and  is  finally  completely  volati- 
lized. The  solution,  mixed  with  alcohol  and  heated,  produces  fulminating  mercury , which 
is  very  explosive. 

If  the  solution  is  kept  over  sulphuric  acid  until  crystals  have  been  separated,  the  syrupy 
liquid  will  have  the  composition  Hg(N03)2.2H20,  and  the  crystals  of  mercuric  nitrate  con- 
tain less  water,  their  composition  being  2Hg(N03)2.H20.  If  the  liquid  is  further  con- 
centrated by  heat,  nitric  acid  is  given  off,  and  the  solution  contains  then  basic  nitrates, 
which  are  crystallizable,  but  when  largely  diluted  with  water  are  converted  into  more 
basic  insoluble  white  or  yellowish  compounds. 

Tests. — The  characters  given  are  sufficient  to  determine  the  quality  of  the  prepara- 
tion. On  the  addition  of  water  no  precipitation  should  occur  (free  nitric  acid).  Diluted 
hydrochloric  acid  should  occasion  no  precipitate,  potassa  solution  a yellow  (not  black), 
and  potassium  iodide  a scarlet-red  (not  yellow  or  green)  precipitate. (absence  of  mercurous 
salt). 

Allied  Preparations. — Millon’s  Test  Solution.  Dissolve  with  a gentle  heat  mercury  in  an 
equal  weight  of  strong  nitric  acid,  dilute  the  solution  with  twice  its  bulk  of  water,  and  decant 
from  the  precipitate ; the  liquid  must  contain  some  free  nitric  and  nitrous  acid.  A solution  of 
nearly  the  same  mercury  strength,  but  containing  no  nitrous  acid,  is  obtained  by  diluting  the 
pharmacopoeial  (U.  S .)  solution  of  mercuric  nitrate  with  an  equal  bulk  of  water.  Millon’s 
reagent  is  used  as  a reagent  for  proteids,  the  mixture,  as  well  as  the  precipitate,  acquiring  a red 
color  on  boiling. 

IIydrargyri  protonitras  ; Nitras  (azotas)  hydrargyrosus,  F.  Cod. — Mercurous  nitrate,  E.; 
Azotate  mercureux,  Fr. ; Mercuronitrat,  Salpetersaures  Quecksilberoxydul,  G. — Mercury  4 parts, 
nitric  acid  3 parts,  water  1 part ; after  24  hours  collect  the  crystals,  wash  them  with  a little 
diluted  nitric  acid,  and  dry. — F.  Cod.  The  salt  forms  colorless  monoclinic  plates  or  prisms  hav- 
ing the  composition  Hg2(N03)22H20,  mol.  weight  559.4  ; it  melts  at  70°  C.  (158°  F.),  is  completely 
soluble  in  a little  warm  water,  but  is  by  more  water  decomposed  into  a soluble  acid  and  an  in- 
soluble basic  salt ; the  solution  imparts  to  the  skin  a purplish-red  color,  turning  black. 

Liquor  iiydrargyri  nitrici  oxydulati,  s.  Hydrargyrum  oxydulatum  solutum,  s.  Liquor  Bel- 
lostii. — Solution  of  mercurous  nitrate,  E. ; Liqueur  de  Belloste,  Fr. ; Mercuronitrat-Losung,  G. 

— Dissolve  without  heat  mercurous  nitrate  100  parts  in  nitric  acid  15  parts  and  water  885  parts. 

On  exposure  to  the  air  oxidation  to  mercuric  nitrate  takes  place. 

Action  and  Uses. — Solution  of  nitrate  of  mercury  is  not  used  internally.  Locally, 
its  action  is  powerfully  caustic,  destroying  the  life  of  the  tissue  to  which  it  is  directly 
applied  and  inflaming  the  surrounding  parts.  The  slough  separates  as  a yellowish  scab. 
When  swallowed  by  mistake,  it  produces  the  effect  of  a powerful  corrosive  poison, 
including  intense  pain,  vomiting,  purging,  collapse,  and  speedy  death,  after  which  the  ? 


> 


LIQUOR  HYDRARGYRI  PERCHLORIDI.—IODI  COMPOSITUS. 


969 


fauces  have  been  found  vesicated  and  discolored  and  the  stomach  presenting  brown 
eschars.  Applied  to  an  ulcerated  surface,  even  of  small  extent,  it  has  caused  salivation, 
and  a weak  solution  of  it  used  in  the  treatment  of  itch  has  occasioned  fatal  poisoning, 
with  symptoms  of  corrosion  and  salivation  also. 

This  preparation  is  employed  to  stimulate  sluggish  restorative  processes  and  to  remove 
indurated  tissues.  It  is  a valuable  application  in  chronic  and  indurated  ulcers  of  the 
neck  of  the  uterus  of  whatever  nature,  but  most  so,  of  course,  in  simple  ulcers.  Tuber- 
cles and  ulcers  of  the  skin  belonging  to  lupus  have  sometimes  been  treated  advanta- 
geously by  this  caustic  while  appropriate  internal  medicines  were  administered.  It  is 
advised  that  it  should  be  applied  daily.  It  is  an  efficient  remedy  for  acne  by  destroying 
the  diseased  sebaceous  follicles.  It  has  been  recommended  as  the  most  successful  of 
local  applications  to  all  forms > of  syphilitic  sores  of  the  skin,  tongue,  throat,  etc.  The 
strength  of  the  solution  employed  must  vary  with  the  object  in  view.  In  lupus  and 
acne  the  pure  liquid  must  be  used,  and  applied  by  means  of  a pointed  glass  rod  or  brush 
or  a wooden  splinter,  so  as  accurately  to  limit  the  caustic  action  to  the  diseased  tissue. 
When  ulcers  of  the  throat  are  to  be  treated,  1 or  2 minims  of  the  acid  in  an  ounce  of 
water  (Gm.  0.06-0.12  to  Gm.  32)  may  be  used  as  a gargle  or  with  an  atomizer,  care 
being  taken  that  the  spray  is  not  inhaled ; or  by  means  of  a sponge-mop  a mixture  of  a 
fluidrachm  of  the  solution  with  an  ounce  of  water  (Gm.  4 to  Gm.  32)  may  be  applied. 
For  cutaneous  ulcers  a lotion  may  be  made  with  30  minims  of  the  solution  and  an  ounce 
(Gm.  2 to  Gm.  32)  of  water. 

LIQUOR  HYDRARGYRI  PERCHLORIDI,  ^/’.—Solution  op 
Perchloride  of  Mercury. 

Liquor  hydrargyri  hichloridi. — Solution  of  corrosive  sublimate , Solution  of  mercuric 
chloride , E.  ; Chlorure  de  mercure  et  d’ammoniaque  liquide , Solute  de  sel  Alembroth , Fr.  ; 
Sublimat-Lbsung , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Perchloride  of  Mercury,  Chloride  of  Ammonium,  each  10 
grains  ; Distilled  Water  1 pint  (Imperial).  Dissolve. — Br. 

This  is  a colorless  solution  of  the  sal  Alembroth  of  the  alchymists,  having  the  saline  and 
metallic  taste  of  the  salts  from  which  it  is  made.  It  yields  white  precipitates  with  alka- 
lies and  their  carbonates,  and  is  decomposed  by  vegetable  juices  and  the  medicinal 
extracts.  It  contains  J grain  of  corrosive  sublimate  to  the  (Imperial)  fluidounce,  and  is 
of  one-half  the  strength  of  the  similar  solution  which  was  formerly  recognized  by  the 
Prussian  and  other  European  pharmacopoeias.  By  substituting  emulsion  of  bitter 
almond  for  the  water  Gowlandis  cosmetic  lotion  is  obtained. 

Liqueur  de  Van  Swieten,  F.  Cod.,  is  a solution  of  1 part  of  corrosive  sublimate  in 
100  parts  of  alcohol  and  900  parts  of  water. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  object  of  this  preparation  appears  to  be  to  render  the 
solution  of  corrosive  sublimate  more  perfect  than  that  in  water  alone.  The  average 
dose  is  Gm.  4 (f^j),  containing  Gm.  0.004  (gr.  ^L)  0f  corrosive  sublimate. 

LIQUOR  IODI  COMPOSITUS,  77.  S. — Compound  Solution  of  Iodine. 

Ipquor  iodi , Br. — Solution  of  iodine , LugoVs  solution , E. ; Solute  iodure  de  Lugol , Fr.  \ 
Lugol  \che  Jodlosung , G. 

Preparation. — Iodine  5 Gm.  ; Potassium  Iodide  10  Gm. ; Distilled  Water  85  Gm. ; 
to  make  100  Gm.  Dissolve  the  iodine  and  potassium  iodide  in  the  distilled  water.  Keep 
the  solution  in  well-stoppered  bottles. — U.  S. 

To  prepare  4 fluidounces  of  Lugol’s  solution  108  grains  of  iodine  and  216  grains  of 
potassium  iodide  should  be  dissolved  in  4 ounces  of  distilled  water. 

Take  of  iodine  22  grains  ; potassium  iodide  33  grains ; distilled  water  1 fluidounce. 
Dissolve. — Br. 

Solutions  of  potassium  iodide  dissolve  iodine  in  different  proportions,  weak  solutions 
taking  up  1 atom  of  I for  each  molecule  of  KI,  or  76.5  parts  for  100  parts  of  the  salt. 
The  dissolved  portion,  therefore,  has  the  composition  KI2.  The  proportion  of  iodine  to 
potassium  iodide  in  the  second  formula  approaches  the  composition  given,  but  the  formula 
of  the  United  States  Pharmacopoeia  directs  a larger  amount  of  the  salt,  and  its  iodine 
strength  is  greater.  Viewed  as  free  iodine  held  in  solution  by  potassium  iodide,  1 part 
of  the  former  is  represented  by  20.0  parts  (77!  S.  Pi)  and  22.4  parts  ( B . P.)  of  the 
solution. 


970 


LIQUOR  LITHIM  EFFER VESCENS.—MA GNESII  CARBON ATIS. 


Properties. — The  solution  is  of  a dark  brown-red  color,  having  the  caustic  taste  of 
iodine  and  imparting  to  starch-paste  a dark-blue  color.  When  boiled,  iodine  is  given  off, 
but  the  whole  of  it  does  not  volatilize  until  the  liquid  is  evaporated  to  dryness  and  the 
residuary  mass  heated  nearly  to  redness.  When  agitated  with  chloroform,  ether,  or 
carbon  disulphide,  the  solution  is  decolorized.  “ 12.66  Gm.  of  the  solution,  mixed  with 
a little  gelatinized  starch,  should  require  for  complete  decoloration  from  49.3  to  50  Cc. 
of  decinormal  solution  of  sodium  thiosulphate.” — U.  S. 

Allied  Preparations. — Liquor  iodi  causticus,  N.  F. ; Caustic  solution  of  iodine  •,  Churchill’s 
iodine  caustic. — Iodine  480  grains,  Potassium  iodide  960  grains,  Distilled  water  4 fluidounces. 

Causticum  iodi,  Lugol’s  caustic. — Iodine  and  potassium  iodide,  of  each  1 part,  water  2 parts. 
By  substituting  glycerin  for  the  water,  Hebrews  iodine  caustic  is  obtained. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  preparation  is  considerably  stronger  in  the  proportion  of 
its  active  ingredients  than  the  compound  tincture  of  iodine,  and  is  thought  to  be  more 
efficient,  although  there  is  no  satisfactory  evidence  in  favor  of  that  opinion.  20  minims 
(Gm.  1.15)  of  it  contain  about  1 grain  (Om.  0.06)  of  iodine.  The  average  dose  is  Gm. 
0.25  (gtt.  iv).  It  should  be  administered  in  a large  portion  of  water. 

LIQUOR  LITHLE  EFFER VESOENS,  Br. — Effervescing  Solution 

of  Lithia. 

Aqua  Utilise  effervescens. — Lithia-water,  E.  ; Eau  de  lithine , Fr. ; Lithian- Wasser , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Lithium  Carbonate  10  grains  ; Water  1 pint.  Mix  in  a suit- 
able apparatus,  and  pass  into  it  as  much  pure  washed  carbon  dioxide  gas,  obtained  by 
the  action  of  sulphuric  acid  on  chalk,  as  can  be  introduced  with  a pressure  of  four 
atmospheres.  Keep  the  solution  in  bottles  securely  closed  to  prevent  the  escape  of  the 
compressed  gas. — Br. 

This  is  a solution  of  lithium  carbonate  in  water  rendered  more  agreeable  by  the  free 
carbonic  acid  present.  Each  fluidounce  contains  ^ grain  of  the  carbonate,  the  amount 
of  which  is  best  ascertained  by  evaporating  a known  measure  of  it.  The  residue  should 
answer  to  the  tests  for  lithium  carbonate. 

Medical  Uses. — This  is  merely  an  agreeable  form  for  the  administration  of  lithia ; 
it  may  be  given  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  120-360  (f  giv-xii). 

LIQUOR  MAGNESII  CARBON  ATIS,  Br. — Solution  of  Magnesium 

Carbonate. 

Aqua  magnesio-effervescens. — Fluid  magnesia , E. ; Eau  magnesienne , Magnesie  liquide , 
Fr.  ; Magnesiaicasser , Kohlensaure  Magnes  laid  sung , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Magnesium  Sulphate  2 ounces  ; Sodium  Carbonate  2J 
ounces;  Distilled  Water  a sufficiency.  Dissolve  the  two  salts  separately,  each  in  J pint 
of  water.  Heat  the  solution  of  magnesium  sulphate  to  the  boiling-point,  then  add  to  it 
the  solution  of  sodium  carbonate,  and  boil  them  together  until  carbon  dioxide  ceases 
to  be  evolved.  Collect  the  precipitated  magnesium  carbonate  on  a calico  filter,  and  wash 
it  with  distilled  water  until  what  passes  ceases  to  give  a precipitate  with  barium  chloride. 
Mix  the  washed  precipitate  with  a pint  of  distilled  water,  and,  putting  them  into  a suit- 
able apparatus,  pass  into  it  pure  washed  carbon  dioxide,  obtained  by  the  action  of  sul- 
phuric acid  on  chalk.  Let  the  mixture  remain  in  contact  with  excess  of  carbonic  acid, 
retained  there  under  pressure,  for  about  twenty-four  hours ; then  filter  the  liquid  to 
remove  any  undissolved  magnesium  carbonate,  and  again  pass  carbon  dioxide  into  the 
filtered  solution.  Finally,  keep  the  solution  in  a bottle  securely  closed  to  prevent  the 
escape  of  carbon  dioxide.  The  solution  contains  about  10  grains  of  magnesium  carbonate 
in  a fluidounce. — Br. 

The  first  part  of  the  above  process  embraces  the  preparation  of  magnesium  oxycar- 
bonate,  4(MgC03).Mg(0H)2,  which  is  the  official  Magnesii  carbonas.  By  the  subsequent 
operation  this  is  dissolved  in  water  by  the  aid  of  carbon  dioxide  in  excess,  whereby  mag- 
nesium carbonate,  MgCOs,  and  bicarbonate,  MgH22C03,  are  formed. 

Properties  and  Tests. — It  is  a colorless  solution,  which  should  effervesce  on  open- 
ing the  vessel,  carbon  dioxide  escaping,  and  has  a slightly  acidulous  taste  free  from  bitter- 
ness. The  white  mass  left  by  evaporating  a fluidounce  and  calcining  the  residue  should 
weigh  5 grains  and  answer  to  the  tests  for  magnesia.  When  the  solution  is  exposed  to 
cold,  prismatic  crystals  of  magnesium  carbonate,  MgC03.5H20,  appear,  which  on  exposure 
to  the  air  lose  water  and  become  MgC03.3H20. 


LIQUOR  M AGNESI  1 CITRATIS. 


971 


Medical  Uses. — The  intention  of  this  preparation  is  apparently  to  provide  an  agree- 
able form  of  magnesia  for  administration  in  cases  of  constitutional  gout  and  other  disor- 
ders attended  with  an  excess  of  add  in  the  system  and  acid  urinary  deposits.  An  extem- 
poraneous mixture  of  magnesia  with  carbonated  water  answers  the  same  purpose,  and  so 
do  the  granular  effervescing  vegetable  salts  of  magnesia.  The  dose  is  Gm.  32-64 

(fsHD- 

LIQUOR  MAGNESII  CITRATIS,  U.  S.9  Br  — Solution  of  Magnesium 

Citrate. 

Liquor  magnesii  dtrid. — Limonade  au  dtrate  de  magnesie , Limonade  purgative  citro- 
magnesienne , Fr.  ; Magnesiumcitrat-Losung , Magnesia- Limonade,  G. 

Preparation. — Magnesium  Carbonate  15  Gm.  ; Citric  Acid  30  Gm.  ; Syrup  of 
Citric  Acid  120  Cc. ; Potassium  Bicarbonate,  in  crystals,  2.5  Gm. ; Water  a sufficient 
quantity.  Dissolve  the  citric  acid  in  120  Cc.  of  water,  and,  having  added  the  magne- 
sium carbonate,  stir  until  it  is  dissolved.  Filter  the  solution  into  a strong  bottle  of  the 
capacity  of  360  Cc.,  containing  the  syrup  of  citric  acid.  Then  add  enough  of  water  to 
nearly  fill  the  bottle,  drop  in  the  potassium  bicarbonate,  and  immediately  close  the  bottle 
with  a cork,  which  must  be  secured  with  twine.  Lastly,  shake  the  mixture  occasionally 
until  the  potassium  bicarbonate  is  dissolved. — U.  S. 

Take  of  magnesium  carbonate  100  grains  ; citric  acid  200  grains  ; syrup  of  lemon  4 
fluidounce ; magnesium  bicarbonate,  in  crystals,  40  grains;  water  a sufficiency.  Dissolve 
the  citric  acid  in  2 ounces  of  the  water,  and,  having  added  the  potassium  carbonate, 
stir  it  until  it  is  dissolved.  Filter  the  solution  into  a strong  half-pint  bottle,  add  the 
syrup  and  sufficient  water  to  nearly  fill  the  bottle ; then  introduce  the  potassium  bicar- 
bonate, and  immediately  close  the  bottle  with  the  cork,  which  should  be  secured  with 
string  or  wire.  Afterward  shake  the  bottle  until  the  potassium  bicarbonate  has  dis- 
solved.— Br. 

The  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia  has  increased  the  quantities  of  magnesium  carbonate  and 
citric  acid,  but  not  the  relative  proportions,  and  hence  it  is  doubtful  whether  the 
official  solution  will  keep  any  better  than  that  of  1880.  Effervescent  solution  of  magne- 
sium citrate  has  been  the  source  of  frequent  annoyance  to  the  pharmacist,  and  it  is  to  be 
regretted  that  the  pharmacopoeia  did  not  prescribe  either  a formula  for  extemporaneous 
preparation  only , or  a formula  by  which  a solution  can  be  prepared  which  will  not  deposit 
even  after  lapse  of  some  time.  When  magnesium  carbonate  and  citric  acid  are  brought 
together  in  the  presence  of  water,  carbon  dioxide  is  eliminated  and  magnesium  citrate  is 
formed ; the  exact  composition  of  the  latter  salt  depends  upon  the  amount  of  base  or 
acid  present.  Normal  magnesium  citrate  of  the  composition  Mg3(C6H507)2  is  but  slightly 
soluble  in  water,  and  crystallizes  from  its  solutions  with  14  molecules  of  water  ; it  is 
formed  whenever  10  molecules  of  citric  acid  are  allowed  to  react  with  3 molecules  of  offi- 
cial magnesium  carbonate,  as  follows  : 3[4(MgC03).Mg(0H)2.5H20]  +10H3C6H5O7.H2O= 
5Mg3(CfiH507)2-f  12C02-f  43H20.  The  acid  magnesium  citrate,  MgHC6H507,  is  very 
soluble  in  water,  and  is  the  compound  aimed  at  by  the  formula  of  both  pharmacopoeias  ; 
it  is  produced  by  the  following  reaction  : 4(MgC03).Mg(0H)2.5H20-|-5H3C6H507.H20= 
5MgHC6H507-f-4C02+16H20,  which  shows  that  each  molecule  of  official  magnesium 
carbonate  requires  5 molecules  of  citric  acid.  The  15  Gm.  of  magnesium  carbonate 
ordered  in  the  official  formula  require  21.61  -j-Gm.  of  citric  acid  to  form  the  normal,  or 
32.43  Gm.  to  form  the  acid  salt;  the  Pharmacopoeia  orders  30  Gm.  of  acid,  of  which  only 
29.45  Gm.  are  available  for  the  magnesium  salt,  as  even  the  large  quantity  of  syrup  of 
citric  acid  ordered  does  not  contain  sufficient  acid  to  decompose  the  2.5  Gm.  of  potassium 
bicarbonate  subsequently  added.  The  official  solution  must  contain,  therefore,  a mixture 
of  acid  and  normal  salts,  to  which  its  instability  may  be  ascribed.  If  a solution  of  acid 
magnesium  citrate  only  is  desired  which  will  not  deposit  in  the  course  of  time,  the 
quantity  of  citric  acid  in  the  official  formula  must  be  increased  to  32.98(32.43-}-  0.55) 
Gm.,  which  includes  the  necessary  amount  of  acid  to  supply  the  deficiency  in  the  syrup 
stated  above ; this,  however,  produces  a very  acid  liquid,  and  may  be  objected  to  by 
many  persons  on  that  account.  The  120  Cc.  of  syrup  ordered  will  fail  to  cover  the  acid 
taste  sufficiently,  besides  which  it  is  questionable  whether  it  is  advisable  to  combine  102 
Gm.  (nearly  4 av.  ozs.)  of  sugar  with  one  purgative  dose  of  any  medicine.  A solution 
of  normal  magnesium  citrate  is  admirably  adapted  for  extemporaneous  preparation,  but 
it  does  not  keep  well  for  any  length  of  time  : the  following  formula,  in  which  the 
quantity  of  magnesium  carbonate  directed  by  the  Pharmacopoeia  has  been  retained,  but 


972 


LIQUOR  MORPHINE  ACETATI1S. 


the  syrup  of  citric  acid  has  been  reduced  to  one-half,  will  be  found  to  yield  a very  satis- 
factory solution  for  use  within  twenty-four  hours,  and  contains  just  sufficient  excess  of 
citric  acid  (2.24  Gm.)  to  make  the  taste  agreeably  acidulous:  Mix  25  G-m.  of  citric  acid 
in  powder  with  15  Gm.  of  magnesium  carbonate,  and  add  180  Cc.  of  water;  stir  well 
until  dissolved,  and  filter  the  solution  into  a strong  bottle  of  360  Cc.  capacity  containing 
60  Cc.  of  syrup  of  citric  acid.  Add  enough  water  to  nearly  fill  the  bottle,  and  drop  in 
2.5  Gm.  of  potassium  bicarbonate  in  crystals ; the  bottle  should  be  immediately  closed 
with  a perfect  soft  cork,  which  is  to  be  secured  with  wire  or  twine.  Finally  shake  the 
bottle  until  all  crystals  are  dissolved. 

The  Pharmacopoeia  orders  plain  water  to  be  used,  but  if  the  solution  is  to  be  kept  on 
hand,  distilled,  or,  better  yet,  recently  boiled  and  filtered,  water  will  be  found  preferable, 
so  as  to  avoid  the  formation  of  fungi.  The  potassium  bicarbonate  added  is  converted 
into  neutral  potassium  citrate,  the  carbon  dioxide,  which  is  eliminated,  remaining  in  solu- 
tion. Magnesium  carbonate  is  preferable  to  the  oxide,  as  it  is  less  apt  to  vary  in  com- 
position, but  if  the  latter  is  chosen  6.23  Gm.  of  magnesium  oxide  may  be  used  in  place  of 
15  Gm.  of  the  official  carbonate. 

To  prepare  the  solution,  ten  times  (or  any  other  convenient  multiple)  of  the  quantities 
of  citric  acid  and  magnesium  carbonate  are  weighed  out  and  mixed  with  the  corre- 
sponding quantity  of  water  ; after  the  magnesia  is  dissolved  the  liquid  is  passed  through 
a paper-filter,  equally  divided  among  the  requisite  number  of  bottles,  each  containing  the 
necessary  quantity  of  syrup ; sufficient  water  is  then  added  to  each  bottle,  after  which 
the  potassium  bicarbonate  in  crystals  is  dropped  in.  The  corks  are  then  inserted  and 
securely  fastened  by  twine,  and  the  bottles  laid  upon  their  sides  in  a cool  place.  Pre- 
pared in  this  way,  the  crystals  will  gradually  dissolve  in  the  syrup,  and  this  will  slowly 
mix  with  the  lighter  saline  solution,  unless  it  be  wanted  for  immediate  use,  when,  by  , 
slight  agitation,  the  syrup  and  bicarbonate  are  dissolved  in  the  aqueous  fluid. 

The  solution  is  colorless,  free  from  sediment,  and  of  a pleasant  acidulous  taste  free 
from  bitterness.  The  present  formula  differs  from  that  of  1880  chiefly  in  ordering  larger 
quantities  of  syrup  of  citric  acid  and  potassium  bicarbonate ; hence  a more  effervescent  : 
solution  is  obtained. 

' 

Allied  Preparations. — Liquor  magnesii  acetatis. — Solution  of  magnesium  acetate,  E. ; Solute  ! 
d’ acetate  de  magnesie,  Fr. ; Magnesiumacetat-Losung,  G. — Renaud  proposed  a solution  made  by  f 
dissolving  40  parts  of  magnesium  carbonate  in  sufficient  acetic  acid  (l37  parts),  filtering,  and 
evaporating  to  100  parts.  It  is  a colorless  syrupy  liquid,  having  a bitterish  taste  less  pleasant 
than  the  citrate,  and  containing  nearly  60  per  cent,  of  the  dry  acetate,  Mg(C2H302)2  (mol.  weight 
142.02).  The  dry  salt  is  white,  gum-like,  very  deliquescent,  and  freely  soluble  in  wrater  and  : 
alcohol. 

Elixir  magnesii  acetatis. — Solution  of  magnesium  acetate  66  parts  ; alcohol  14  parts  ; syrup  • 
of  orange-peel  (or  of  lemon-peel)  70  parts.  This  contains  25  per  cent,  of  the  dry  salt,  but  less  ; 
alcohol  than  directed  by  Garot's  formula. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  medicine  has  come  into  popular  use  as  a purgative,  and, 
if  its  constitution  could  be  depended  upon,  would  answer  a useful  purpose.  But  as  it  t 
sometimes  purges  violently,  and  in  other  cases  fails  of  any  purgative  effect,  it  ought  not 
to  be  employed  where  certainty  and  uniformity  of  action  are  important.  It  should  gen-  | 
erally  be  given  in  divided  doses  of  Gm.  120-190  (f^iv-vi)  every  hour  until  the  desired  j 
operation  is  produced. 

Magnesium  acetate  was  introduced  as  a substitute  for  magnesium  citrate,  probably  on 
account  of  its  greater  cheapness,  it  being  assumed  to  possess  the  same  mode  of  action  as  I 
the  citrate.  A committee  of  the  Pharmaceutical  Society  of  Paris  reported  it  to  be  a purga- 
tive whose  slight  taste  and  great  solubility  recommended  it.  It  is,  however,  less  soluble  j 
than  the  citrate  and  of  a less  agreeable  taste.  It  does  not  seem  to  have  been  approved 
by  physicians. 

LIQUOR  MORPHINiE  ACETATIS,  JBr. — Solution  of  Morphine 

Acetate. 

Solute  cC acetate  de  morphine , Fr. ; Essigsaure  Morphinlomng , G. 

Preparation. —Take  of  Morphine  Acetate  9 grains;  Diluted  Acetic  Acid  18  j 
minims  ; Rectified  Spirit  l fluidounce ; Distilled  Water  1?  fluidounces.  Mix  the  acid, 
the  spirit,  and  the  water,  and  dissolve  the  acetate  of  morphine  in  the  mixture. — Br. 

Uses. — Each  fluidrachm  contains  ? grain  (Gm.  4 contain  Gm.  0.03)  of  morphine 
acetate,  the  decomposition  of  which  is  prevented  by  the  spirit. 


LIQUOR  MORPHIXJE  BIMECONA  TIS.—PL  UMBI  SUBACE  TATIS. 


973 


LIQUOR  MORPHINES  BIMECONATIS,  Bp—  Solution  of  Morphine 

Bimeconate. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Morphine  Hydrochlorate,  9 grains ; Solution  of  Ammonia, 
a sufficiency  ; Meconic  Acid,  6 grains ; Rectified  Spirit,  i fluidounce  ; Distilled  Water,  a 
sufficiency.  Dissolve  the  morphine  hydrochlorate  in  two  or  three  drachms  of  distilled 
water,  aiding  solution  by  warmth  ; then  add  solution  of  ammonia  until  morphine  ceases 
to  be  precipitated ; cool ; filter ; wash  the  precipitate  with  distilled  water  until  the  wash- 
ings cease  to  give  a precipitate  with  silver  nitrate ; drain  ; mix  the  precipitate  with  suf- 
ficient water  to  produce  an  ounce  and  a half ; add  the  rectified  spirit  and  meconic  acid ; 
dissolve. — Br. 

Each  fluidounce  of  this  solution  contains  about  5 grains  of  morphine  bimeconate,  and 
its  dose  is  5 to  40  minims. 

LIQUOR  MORPHHSLE  HYDROCHLORATIS,  Br.— Solution  of  Mor- 
phine Hydrochlorate. 

Solute  de  hydrochlorate  de  morphine , Fr. ; Salzsaure  Morphinlosung , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Morphine  Hydrochlorate,  9 grains ; Diluted  Hydrochloric 
Acid,  18  minims;  Rectified  Spirit,  \ fluidounce;  Distilled  Water,  1?  fluidounces.  Mix 
the  hydrochloric  acid,  the  spirit,  and  the  water,  and  dissolve  the  morphine  hydrochlorate 
in  the  mixture. — Br. 

Uses. — Each  fluidrachm  of  this  solution  contains  I grain  of  morphine  hydrochlorate, 
and  its  dose  is  from  10  to  60  minims.  Trousseau  recommended,  for  hypodermic  injection, 
a solution  of  morphine  hydrochlorate  in  glycerin,  which  preserves  the  salt  from  de- 
composition 

LIQUOR  MORPHINE  SULPHATIS,  Br.  Add.— Solution  of  Mor- 
phine Sulphate. 

Solute  de  sulfate  de  morphine , Fr.  ; Schwefelsaure  Morphinlosung  Gi. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Morphine  Sulphate,  35  grains ; Rectified  Spirit,  2 fluidounces; 
Distilled  Water,  sufficient  to  produce  8 fluidounces.  Dissolve  the  morphine  sulphate  in 
part  of  the  water,  add  the  rectified  spirit,  and  finally  the  remainder  of  the  water. — Br. 

Add. 

This  and  the  preceding  solution  are  about  four  times  as  strong  as  the  Liquor  morphise 
sulphatis , U.  S.  P.,  1870,  which  was  made  by  dissolving  1 grain  of  morphine  sulphate  in 
1 fluidounce  of  water. 

In  some  parts  of  the  United  States  a much  stronger  solution  is  prescribed  under  the 
name  of  Magendie's  solution  of  morphine.  It  is  prepared  by  dissolving  16  grains  of  mor- 
phine sulphate  in  sufficient  water  to  produce  1 fluidounce,  and  is  therefore  sixteen  times 
as  strong  as  the  preceding  Magendie's  solution  is  prepared  in  France  by  dissolving  0.8 
Gm.  (12^  grains)  of  morphine  acetate  in  30  Gm.  (about  1 fluidounce)  of  water,  and  is 
therefore  considerably  weaker  than  the  solution  known  by  the  same  name  in  the  United 
States. 

Uses. — Each  fluidrachm  of  this  solution  contains  about  £ grain  of  morphine  sulphate, 
and  the  dose  is  from  10  to  60  minims. 

LIQUOR  PLUMBI  SUBAOETATIS,  U.  S.,  Br.— Solution  of  Lead 

Sub  ACETATE. 

Liquor  plumbi  subacetici , P.  G.  ; Acetum  plumbicum,  Acetum  saturni , Plumbum  hydrico- 
aceticum  solutum , Subacetas  plumbicus  liquidus. — Goulard's  extract , E. ; Sous-acetate  de 
plomb  liquide , Extrait  de  saturne  (de  Goulard ),  Vinaigre  de  plomb  (de  saturne) , F. ; 

Bleiessig , G. 

An  aqueous  liquid  containing  in  solution  about  25  per  cent,  of  lead  subacetate  (ap- 
proximately, Pb20(C2H302)2  546.48), — U.  S.  Specific  gravity  1.195  U.  S 1.275  Br., 
1-235  to  1.240  P.  G.,  1.32  F.  God. 

Preparation. — Lead  Acetate,  170  Gm. ; Lead  Oxide,  100  Gm. ; Distilled  Water,  a 
sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Gm.  Dissolve  the  lead  acetate  in  800  Gm.  of  boiling 
distilled  water  in  a glass  or  porcelain  vessel.  Then  add  the  lead  oxide,  and  boil  for  half 
an  hour,  occasionally  adding  hot  distilled-water  to  make  up  the  loss  by  evaporation. 
Remove  the  heat,  allow  the  liquid  to  cool,  and  add  enough  distilled  water,  previously 


974 


LIQUOR  PLUMB  I SUBACE  TATIS. 


boiled  and  cooled,  to  make  the  product  weigh  1000  Gm.  Finally,  filter  the  liquid  in  a 
well-covered  funnel.  Solution  of  lead  subacetate  should  be  kept  in  well-stoppered  bottles. 

— U.  S. 

Lead  Acetate,  5 oz.  av.  ; Lead  Oxide,  3J  oz.  av. ; Distilled  water,  20  oz.  av.  Boil  as 
above,  and  make  the  filtrate  measure  20  Imperial  fluidounces. — Br. 

Lead  Acetate,  3 parts;  Lead  Oxide,  1 part;  Distilled  Water,  8 parts.  Boil  and  pre- 
serve the  weight. — F.  Cod. 

Lead  Acetate,  3 parts;  Lead  Oxide,  1 part;  Water,  J part.  Mix  at  the  heat  of  a 
water  bath  until  the  mixture  has  become  white  or  nearly  so  ; then  add  9J  parts  of  water, 
set  aside  to  settle  and  filter. — P.  G. 

Several  basic  lead  acetates,  soluble  or  insoluble  in  water,  are  known,  which  may  be 
obtained  by  treating  solutions  of  the  neutral  acetate  with  the  requisite  quantity  of  lead 
oxide.  The  exact  composition  of  the  pharmacopoeial  solutions  depends,  therefore,  upon 
the  proportion  of  the  two  compounds  named.  Dobereiner,  Berzelius,  and  others  suggested  to 
use  them  in  the  proportion  of  their  molecular  weights,  so  as  to  form  Pb(C2H302)2.Pb(0H)2. 
This  proportion  is  closely  adhered  to  by  the  U.  S.  and  Br.  Pharmacopoeias,  both  authorities 
using  nearly  6 molecules  of  the  oxide  to  5 of  the  acetate,  so  that  the  solutions  must  con- 
tain chiefly  the  acetate  named,  and  in  addition  thereto  a small  quantity  of  the  triplumbic 
acetate,  2Pb(C2H302)2.Pb(0H)2.  On  the  other  hand,  the  French  and  German  prepara- 
tions are  made  with  very  nearly  3 molecules  of  acetate  to  2 of  lead  oxide  and  contain, 
therefore,  about  equal  molecules  of  the  two  basic  acetates.  Both  these  salts  are  crystai- 
lizable  from  alcohol,  in  which  solvent  they  are  less  freely  soluble  than  in  water.  A still 
more  basic  triplumbic  acetate,  Pb(C2H302)2.2Pb(0H)2,  may  also  be  obtained  in  white 
needles,  but  is  insoluble  in  strong  alcohol.  In  preparing  these  compounds  a nearly  insol- 
uble sexplumbic  acetate,  Pb(C2H302)2.5Pb(0H)2,  is  formed  in  variable  proportions,  and  is 
filtered  off.  This  insoluble  compound  is  included  in  the  total  weight  directed  by  three 
of  the  above  formulas,  while  that  of  the  British  Pharmacopoeia  orders  the  filtrate  to  be 
brought  to  a definite  measure.  The  filtered  product,  U.  S.  P.,  weighs  about  950  Gm. 
(about  27  fluidounces). 

The  combination  of  the  chemicals  may  be  effected  at  the  ordinary  temperature  by 
macerating  the  finely-levigated  litharge  with  the  solution  of  lead  acetate  in  a corked 
bottle,  and  agitating  occasionally  until  the  sediment  has  become  white ; from  two  to  four 
days  are  usually  required.  By  boiling  all  the  ingredients  the  same  result  is  obtained  in 
a much  shorter  time,  and  the  process  is  preferable  to  that  of  the  German  Pharmacopoeia. 

Properties. — Solution  of  lead  subacetate  is  a colorless  liquid  having  a sweet,  astrin- 
gent taste  and  an  alkaline  reaction  to  test-paper ; the  specific  gravity  has  been  given 
above.  On  exposure  to  air,  or  on  being  mixed  with  water  containing  air  in  solution,  the  j 
solution  yields  a white  precipitate  of  lead  carbonate.  It  unites  readily  with  liquid  and 
solid  fats,  and  may  be  mixed  with  an  equal  bulk  of  alcohol  without  precipitating.  Added  i 

to  a solution  of  gum-arabic,  a dense  white  precipitate  is  produced ; otherwise  it  has  the  \ 

reactions  of  lead  acetate. 

Tests. — After  acidulating  the  solution  with  acetic  acid,  potassium  ferrocyanide  should 
produce  a white  precipitate  free  from  any  blue  (iron)  or  red  (copper)  tint.  When  com- 
pletely precipitated  by  an  excess  of  sulphuric  acid  the  filtrate,  on  being  evaporated  to 
dryness,  should  leave  no  residue  or  only  a very  slight  one  (absence  of  other  salts). 
When  precipitated  by  an  excess  of  ammonia  the  filtrate  should  not  have  a blue  color 
(absence  of  copper).  “ 13.67  Gm.  of  the  solution  diluted  with  50  Cc.  of  water  should 
require  for  complete  precipitation  25  Cc.  of  the  normal  volumetric  solution  of  sulphuric 
acid.” — U.  S.  284.5  grains  of  the  solution  and  500  grain-measures  of  the  volumetric 
solution  of  oxalic  acid,  Br. 

Linimentum  plumbi  subacetatis,  U.  S.,  1880. — Mix  4 parts  of  solution  of  lead 
subacetate  with  6 parts  of  cotton-seed  oil  (all  by  weight),  and  shake  well  together. 

Action,  and  Uses. — This  solution  has  occasioned  violent  toxical  symptoms  when 
taken  internally,  which  it  never  should  be  for  medicinal  purposes.  It  is  employed  when- 
ever an  astringent  and  local  sedative  action  is  required  to  allay  pain  or  inflammation,  to 
constringe  flaccid  tissues,  or  to  lessen  secretion.  When  applied  to  the  denuded  cutis  its 
use  should  not  be  continued  long,  lest  acute  poisonous  effects  be  developed.  It  is  of 
common  use,  diluted,  in  the  treatment  of  contusions , sprains , excoriations,  fractures,  burns, 
wounds,  abscesses,  hernia,  haemorrhoids,  and  various  cutaneous  eruptions  of  an  inflamma- 
tory sort.  It  is  best  applied  on  soft  cloths,  lint,  etc.,  which  should  be  covered  with  a 
waterproof  tissue.  Spongio-piline  is  a convenient  vehicle  for  its  use.  The  mucilage  oi 
slippery  elm  or  of  quince-seeds  causes  a precipitation  of  the  lead  from  this  solution  f 


LIQUOR  PLUMBI  SUBACETATIS  DIL UTUS.—P0TASS2E. 


975 


flaxseed  and  sassafras-pith  mucilages  are  less  objectionable.  For  practical  use  the  diluted 
solution  is  in  most  cases  preferable. 

LIQUOR  PLUMBI  SUBACETATIS  DILUTUS,  U.  S.,  Br.— Diluted 
Solution  of  Lead  Subacetate. 

Aqua  plumb i,  P.  G. ; Aqua  plumbica  {vel  saturnina ). — Lead-water , E. ; Eau  de  saturne , 
Eau  blanche , Fr. ; Bleiwasser,  Kiihlwasser , G. 

Preparation. — Solution  of  Lead  Subacetate  30  Cc. ; Distilled  Water  970  Cc. ; to 
make  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  solution  of  lead  subacetate  with  the  distilled  water,  previously 
boiled  and  cooled.  Keep  the  liquid  in  well-stopped  bottles. — U.  S. 

To  prepare  a pint  of  lead-water,  230  minims  of  solution  of  lead  subacetate  should  be 
mixed  with  sufficient  distilled  water,  previously  boiled,  to  make  16  fluidounces. 

Take  of  solution  of  lead  subacetate,  rectified  spirit,  each  2 fluidrachms ; distilled  water 
191  fluidounces.  Mix,  and  filter  through  paper.  Keep  the  clear  solution  in  a stoppered 
bottle. — Br. 

The  use  of  distilled  water  does  not  prevent  the  mixture  from  becoming  turbid  at  once, 
the  carbonic  acid  held  in  solution  or  contained  in  the  atmosphere  producing  some  lead 
carbonate ; this  gas  is  therefore  expelled  by  the  previous  boiling  of  water.  Since,  how- 
ever, the  decomposition  will  again  take  place  when  exposed  to  the  atmosphere,  it  is  best 
to  prepare  lead-water  only  in  small  quantities  ; for  preparing  4 fluidounces  of  it  56  minims 
of  Goulard’s  extract  are  required ; the  French  and  German  Pharmacopoeias  order  2 per 
cent. 

Aqua  plumbi  Goulardi,  Aqua  yegeto-mineralis  Goulardi  vel  Lotio  plumbea. — 
Goulard’s  lead-water,  E. ; Eau  de  Goulard,  Fr. ; Goulardsches  Wasser,  G. — This  con- 
tains a little  alcohol  (. Br .)  or  vulnerary  spirit  (A7.  Cod .),  the  latter  being  an  aromatic 

alcohol. 

Uses. — It  is  this  rather  than  the  stronger  solution  of  subacetate  of  lead  that  is  com- 
monly employed  for  the  various  purposes  above  indicated.  When  it  is  used  as  a lotion 
merely,  and  is  not  confined  by  dressings,  it  is  rendered  more  efficient  by  the  addition  of 
alcohol,  in  the  proportion  of  3 or  4 drachms  to  a pint  (Gm.  12-16  in  Gm.  500)  of  the 
solution,  as  in  Goulard’s  lead-water. 

LIQUOR  POTASS-®,  JJ.  S.,  Br. — Solution  of  Potassa. 

Liquor  kali  caustici , P.  G. ; Kali  hydricum  solutum , Lixivium  causticum. — Solution  of 
potash , E. ; Potasse  caustique  liquide , Lessive  caustique,  Fr. ; Aetzkalilauge , Kalilauge , G. 

An  aqueous  solution  of  potassium  hydroxide,  KOH ; molecular  weight  55.99 — con- 
taining about  5 per  cent.  U.  S.,  5.84  per  cent.  Br .,  15  per  cent.  P.  G.,  of  the  hydroxide. 
Specific  gravity  1.036  U.  S.,  1.058  Br.,  1.126  to  1.130  P.  G. 

Preparation. — Potassium  Bicarbonate  85  Gm. : Lime  40  Gm. ; Distilled  Water  a 
sufficient  quantity.  Dissolve  the  potassium  bicarbonate  in  400  Cc.  of  distilled  water ; 
heat  the  solution  until  effervescence  ceases,  and  then  raise  it  to  boiling.  Slake  the  lime 
and  make  it  into  a smooth  mixture  with  400  Cc.  of  distilled  water,  and  heat  it  to  boiling. 
Then  gradually  add  the  first  liquid  to  the  second,  and  continue  the  boiling  for  10  minutes. 
Remove  the  heat,  cover  the  vessel  tightly,  and  when  the  contents  are  cold  add  enough 
distilled  water  to  make  the  whole  mixture  weigh  1000  Gm.  Lastly,  strain  it  through 
linen,  set  the  liquid  aside  in  a well-stoppered  bottle  until  it  is  clear,  and  remove  the  clear 
solution  by  means  of  a siphon. 

Solution  of  potassa  may  also  be  prepared  in  the  following  manner:  potassa  56  Gm. ; 
distilled  water  944  Gm. ; to  make  1000  Gm.  Dissolve  the  potassa  in  the  distilled  water. 

The  potassa  used  in  this  process  should  be  of  the  full  strength  directed  by  the  Phar- 
macopoeia (90  per  cent.).  Potassa  of  any  other  strength,  however,  may  be  used  if  a 
proportionately  larger  or  smaller  quantity  be  taken,  the  proper  amount  for  the  above 
formula  being  ascertained  by  dividing  5000  by  the  percentage  of  absolute  potassa  (potas- 
sium hydroxide)  contained  therein.  Solution  of  potassa  should  be  kept  in  well-stoppered 
bottles. — U.  S. 

To  prepare  1 pint  of  solution  of  potassa  423  grains  of  the  official  potassium  hydroxide 
may  be  dissolved  in  sufficient  distilled  water  to  obtain  16  fluidounces  of  finished  product. 

Take  of  potassium  carbonate  1 pound  ; slaked  lime  12  ounces  ; distilled  water  1 gallon 
(Imperial).  Dissolve  the  potassium  carbonate  in  the  water,  and,  having  heated  the  solu- 
tion to  the  boiling-point  in  a clean  iron  vessel,  gradually  add  the  washed  slaked  lime,  and 


976 


LIQUOR  POT ASS M 


continue  the  ebullition  for  ten  minutes  with  constant  stirring.  Then  remove  the  vessel 
from  the  fire,  and  when,  by  the  subsidence  of  the  insoluble  matter,  the  supernatant  liquor 
has  become  perfectly  clear,  transfer  it  by  means  of  a siphon  to  a green  glass  bottle  fur- 
nished with  an  air-tight  stopper,  and  add  distilled  water  if  necessary  to  make  it  correspond 
with  the  tests  of  specific  gravity  and  neutralizing  power. — Br. 

On  bringing  together  potassium  carbonate  and  slaked  lime  in  the  presence  of  water  a 
double  decomposition  is  effected,  resulting  in  the  formation  of  potassium  hydroxide  and 
calcium  carbonate  ; K2C03  + Ca(OH)2  yields  2KOH  -f-  CaC03.  This  reaction  cannot  be 
completed  in  concentrated  solutions,  but  occurs  promptly  in  diluted  liquids.  The  smallest 
quantity  necessary  for  1 part  of  potassium  carbonate,  according  to  Watson,  is  8 parts  of 
water ; Mohr,  however,  prefers  to  use  not  less  than  12  parts,  and  to  concentrate  the 
caustic  liquor,  if  necessary,  by  evaporation.  The  decomposition  may  be  effected  in  the 
cold  by  frequent  agitation,  but  the  resulting  calcium  carbonate  is  then  light  and  retains 
much  of  the  liquor,  while  at  the  same  time  silica,  if  present  in  the  carbonate,  is  not  com- 
pletely removed.  The  British  Pharmacopoeia  uses  potassium  carbonate  and  water  in  the 
proportion  of  1 to  10  ; the  United  States  Pharmacopoeia,  nearly  in  the  proportion  of  1 to 
121,  having  substituted  the  much  purer  bicarbonate  for  the  carbonate.  1 part  of  slaked 
lime  is  sufficient  to  decompose  2.5  parts  of  potassium  carbonate,  containing  81  per  cent, 
of  the  pure  anhydrous  salt,  and  for  1.8  parts  of  potassium  bicarbonate  if  in  boiling  the 
solution  of  the  latter  carbon  dioxide  was  not  given  off,  or  for  3.6  parts  of  the  latter  salt 
if  previously  converted  into  normal  carbonate  by  boiling.  An  excess  of  lime  is,  however, 
preferable  to  ensure  complete  decomposition  ; but  the  employment  of  an  unnecessarily 
large  quantity  may  be  avoided  by  following  the  directions  of  the  Pharmacopoeia  to  add 
the  milk  of  lime  gradually  in  small  portions  to  the  boiling  alkaline  liquid ; when  this 
addition  amounts  to  a quantity  of  lime  equal  to  about  one-half  the  weight  of  the  potas- 
sium salt,  a little  of  the  boiling  mixture  may  be  poured  upon  a small  moistened  filter, 
and  the  filtrate  collected  in  a test-tube  containing  some  hydrochloric  acid.  Should  effer- 
vescence occur,  the  boiling  must  be  continued  and  more  lime  added,  until  on  testing  as 
before,  a new  filter  being  used  each  time,  no  effervescence  is  observed.  The  removal 
of  the  caustic  liquor  may  be  effected  either  by  filtering  it  at  once  through  muslin,  or, 
better  still,  we  think,  by  allowing  the  insoluble  matter  to  subside,  drawing  off  the  clear 
liquor  by  means  of  a siphon,  and  transferring  the  sediment  before  it  has  become  hard  ! 
upon  a muslin  strainer,  and  washing  the  potassa  out  by  means  of  distilled  water.  In  all 
cases  the  liquid  should  be  brought  to  the  proper  density  by  the  addition  of  water,  or,  if 
necessary,  by  evaporation  ; if  largely  diluted  by  washing,  the  potassa  solution  may  be 
employed  for  various  chemical  operations.  A well-cleaned  iron  vessel  is  best  adapted  for 
the  above  operation. 

Other  methods  for  obtaining  potassa  solution  adapted  for  special  purposes  have  been 
recommended.  Schubert  decomposed  potassium  sulphate  accurately  by  a hot  solution  of  { 
baryta.  Hunter  (1866)  arrived  at  the  same  result  by  substituting  lime  for  the  baryta,  \ 
and  by  boiling  and  filtering  under  a pressure  of  about  40  pounds  to  the  square  inch.  ■: 
F.  Schulze  (1861)  heated  a mixture  of  1 part  of  pure  potassium  nitrate  with  3 parts  of  j 
ferrous  oxalate  to  dull  redness  while  hydrogen  gas  was  being  conducted  to  the  bottom 
of  the  crucible.  Wohler’s  process  (1853),  to  heat  a mixture  of  1 part  of  potassium 
nitrate  and  2 of  copper  to  dull  redness,  is  apt  to  yield  a product  containing  potassium 
nitrite  if  the  mixture  has  not  been  intimate  or  if  the  heat  is  not  continued  long  enough  ; 
Polacci  (1872)  found  the  solution  in  water  to  contain  a little  copper. 

The  table  on  page  977,  computed  by  Gerlach  (1869),  gives  the  specific  gravity  of 
potassa  solution  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  containing  from  1 to  60  per  cent,  of  potassium  oxide, 
and  the  same  percentage  of  potassium  hydroxide : 

Properties. — Potassa  solution  is  a clear  and  colorless  liquid  of  the  specific  gravity 
stated  above,  and  has  a strong  alkaline  reaction  and  a very  caustic  taste.  The  slight 
peculiar  odor  which  it  usually  has  is  due  to  its  action  upon  organic  bodies  which  may 
have  been  derived  from  the  atmosphere.  It  dissolves  wool,  skin,  and  other  animal  and 
many  vegetable  substances,  and  decomposes  fats,  forming  therewith  soluble  soaps.  It 
attracts  carbon  dioxide  from  the  air  with  great  avidity,  and  must  therefore  be  preserved  in 
well-stoppered  bottles.  Green  glass,  free  from  lead,  is  best  adapted  for  the  purpose,  but 
is  likewise  somewhat  decomposed  by  alkalies,  which  cause  the  stopper  to  become  firmly 
fastened  into  the  bottle  unless  protected  by  a thin  layer  of  paraffin.  Potassa  solution 
decomposes  the  salts  of  ammonium,  of  the  metals,  and  of  all  the  alkaloids,  and  induces 
the  decomposition  of  tannin  and  its  derivatives  ; a drop  taken  by  a platinum  loop  and 
held  in  a non-luminous  flame  imparts  to  it  a violent  tint.  As  a test  of  identity,  and  con- 


LIQUOR  POTASS  M. 


977 


sidering  the  strong  yellow  color  given  by  sodium  compounds,  the  flame  may  be  examined 
through  a blue  glass  to  cut  off  the  color  of  sodium.  It  differs  from  soda  solution  in 
yielding  a white"  crystalline  precipitate  with  excess  of  concentrated  solution  of  tartaric 
acid,  and  a yellow  one  on  the  addition  of  hydrochloric  acid  and  platinic  chloride. 


Per- 

centage. 

k2o. 

KHO. 

Per- 

centage. 

K>0. 

KHO. 

Per- 

centage. 

k2o. 

KHO. 

1 

1.010 

1.009 

21 

1.230 

1.188 

41 

1.522 

1.425 

2 

1.020 

1.017 

22 

1.242 

1.198 

42 

1.539 

1.438 

3 

1.030 

1.025 

23 

1.256 

1.209 

43 

1.554 

1.450 

4 

1.039 

1.033 

24 

1.270 

1.220 

44 

1.570 

1.462 

5 

1.048 

1.041 

25 

1.285 

1.230 

45 

1.584 

1.474 

6 

1.058 

1.049 

26 

1.300 

1.241 

46 

1.600 

1.488 

7 

1.068 

1.058 

27 

1.312 

1.252 

47 

1.615 

1.499 

8 

1.078 

1.065 

28 

1.326 

1.264 

48 

1.630 

1.511 

9 

1.089 

1.074 

29 

1.340 

1.276 

49 

1.645 

1.527 

10 

1.099 

1.083 

30 

1.355 

1.288 

50 

1.660 

1.539 

11 

1.110 

1.092 

31 

1.370 

1.300 

51 

1.676 

1.552 

12 

1.121 

1.101 

32 

1.385 

1.311 

52 

1.690 

1.565 

13 

1.132 

1.111 

33 

1.402 

1.324 

53 

1.705 

1.578 

14 

1.143 

1.119 

34 

1.418 

1.336 

54 

1.720 

1.590 

15 

1.154 

1.128 

35 

1.431 

1.349 

55 

1.733 

1.604 

16 

1.166 

1.137 

36 

1.445 

1.361 

56 

1.746 

1.618 

17 

1.178 

1.146 

37 

1.460 

1.374 

57 

1.762 

1.630 

18 

1.190 

1.155 

38 

1.475 

1.387 

58 

1.780 

1.641 

19 

1.202 

1.166 

! 39 

1.490 

1.400 

59 

1.795 

1.655 

20 

1.215 

1.177  ! 

1 40 

1 .504  ! 

1.411 

! 60 

1.810 

! 1.667 

Tests. — The  solution  should  not  effervesce,  or  at  most  should  give  off  only  isolated 
bubbles,  when  dropped  into  an  excess  of  dilute  hydrochloric  acid  (limit  of  carbonate). 
Carbonic  acid  is  limited  to  about  ^ per  cent,  by  the  following  test : Mix  1 part  of  potassa 
solution  with  4 parts  of  lime-water ; boil,  and  filter  into  nitric  acid,  when  no  effervescence 
should  be  observed. — P.  G.  When  acidulated  with  nitric  acid,  potassa  solution  should 
give  "not  more  than  a very  slight  turbidity  with  barium  nitrate  (sulphate),  silver  nitrate 
(chloride),  or  sodium  carbonate  (alumina,  lime)  ; and  when  the  acidulated  solution  is 
evaporated  to  dryness  the  residue  should  form  a clear  or  merely  a slightly  turbid  (from 
presence  of  silica)  solution  in  water,  which  should  not  be  disturbed  by  test  solution  of 
magnesium  (absence  of  phosphate).  If  neutralized  with  sulphuric  acid,  and  then  mixed 
with  half  its  bulk  of  concentrated  sulphuric  acid  and  allowed  to  cool,  the  addition  of 
ferrous  sulphate  should  not  produce  a black  or  blackish-brown  color  (nitrate).  Potassa 
solution  should  not  be  precipitated  or  colored  black  by  hydrogen  sulphide,  either  before 
or  after  being  acidulated  (absence  of  metals).  The  British  Pharmacopoeia  demands  that 
462.9  grains  (1  fluidounce  Imperial)  should  require  for  neutralization  482  grain-measures 
of  the  volumetric  solution  of  oxalic  acid,  which  corresponds  to  5.84  per  cent,  by  weight 
of  potassium  hydrate,  or  27  grains  in  1 (Imperial)  fluidounce.  The  solution  of  the 
United  States  Pharmacopoeia  should  require  for  28  Gm.  not  less  than  25  Cc.  of  the  normal 
volumetric  solution  of  sulphuric  acid,  and  the  ( U.  S .)  fluidounce  should  contain  about 
26.5  grains  of  pure  potassium  hydroxide. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — By  evaporating  the  solution  it  yields  Potassa  (Potassa 
caustica),  U.  /S'.,  Br. 

Action  and  Uses. — Solution  of  potassa  possesses  in  a degree  the  caustic  proper- 
ties of  the  pure  alkali,  since  it  contains  nearly  6 per  cent  of  the  latter.  The  soapy  feel 
which  it  gives  to  the  fingers  is  due  to  its  combination  with  the  unctuous  secretion  of  the 
skin.  In  medicinal  doses  and  taken  during  or  after  a meal  it  speedily  combines  with  the 
acids  then  abundantly  secreted  by  the  stomach,  but  if  properly  diluted  and  used  when 
the  stomach  is  empty  it  is  absorbed,  and  tends  to  neutralize  the  acid  secretions,  especially 
the  urine,  along  with  which  it  is  chiefly  eliminated.  Used  habitually,  it  lessens  the 
coagulability  of  the  blood  and  dissolves  out  the  haematin  from  the  red  corpuscles,  giving 
rise  to  paleness  and  puffiness  of  the  skin,  passive  haemorrhages,  general  emaciation,  and, 
in  a word,  to  the  ordinary  phenomena  of  scurvy.  Its  poisonous  effects  are  treated  of 
under  Potassa.  This  aplastic  operation  explains  its  efficacy  in  moderating  a tendency 
to  plastic  exudations,  in  promoting  the  absorption  of  those  already  existing,  and  in 
modifying  nutrition  generally. 

Solution  of  potassa  limits  or  suspends  the  formation  of  acid  urinary  deposits  and  con- 
cretions by  neutralizing  the  free  acids  through  which  they  are  formed,  while  it  spares 
the  urinary  passages  the  irritation  of  their  contact.  But  since  these  acids  always  pro- 


978 


LIQUOR  POTASS M EFFER VESCENS. 


ceed  from  some  defect  of  primary  assimilation,  the  mere  neutralization  of  them  when 
formed  does  not  necessarily  effect  a radical  cure,  which  must  be  sought  by  the  use  of 
remedies  tending  to  bring  the  digestive  powers  and  the  work  of  digestion  into  due  pro- 
portion and  harmony.  For  this  purpose  dietetic  and  hygienic  measures  are  the  most 
efficient.  The  dyspeptic  symptoms  which  call  for  solution  of  potassa  and  other  antacid 
medicines  are  heartburn,  sour  eructations,  aphthae,  oesophageal  spasm,  vomiting,  cramp 
in  the  stomach,  colic,  and  irregular  diarrhoea.  It  is  probable  that  such  medicines,  by 
correcting  acidity,  tend  to  promote  the  due  digestion  of  food,  and  thereby  indirectly  to 
remove  the  debility  of  the  system  upon  which  acid  dyspepsia  depends.  Certain  if  is 
that  in  cases  of  “ uric-acid  diathesis,”  as  it  has  been  called,  the  alkaline  treatment,  duly 
carried  out,  will  sometimes  suspend  the  faulty  secretions  for  an  indefinite  period.  It  is 
true  that  this  result  is  more  usual  after  the  liberal  use  of  diuretic  mineral  waters,  which 
probably  cleanse  the  urinary  channels  of  accumulated  deposits,  than  from  the  use  of 
solution  of  potassa  or  of  any  other  alkali  alone.  The  tympanites  incident  to  this  form 
of  dyspepsia  is  best  palliated  by  the  medicine  when  it  is  given  in  a bitter  infusion. 
Strangury  from  cantharides  is  said  to  be  both  prevented  and  relieved  by  20  minims  of 
solution  of  potassa,  largely  diluted.  In  acne  of  the  face  (gutta  rosacea)  the  internal 
use  of  the  medicine  is  sometimes  very  efficient,  and  it  has  been  equally  recommended  for 
the  prevention  and  cure  of  boils  when  they  occur  in  successive  crops.  Scrofulous  glan- 
dular swellings  are  doubtless  diminished  during  a course  of  this  medicine,  but  its  debili- 
tating effects  upon  the  system  should  at  the  same  time  be  counteracted  by  appropriate 
food  and  cod-liver  oil.  It  is  injurious  in  phthisis , but,  on  the  other  hand,  useful  jn 
chronic  bronchitis , especially  when  associated  with  emphysema  and  when  expectoration  is 
difficult  and  the  sputa  are  scanty  and  tenacious.  The  mode  of  action  implied  in  some  of 
the  preceding  statements  receives  a further  support  from  the  successful  use  of  solution 
of  potassa  in  moderate  obesity.  The  hypothesis  invoked  to  explain  its  action  is  that  lk  it 
increases  the  vital  powers  of  metamorphosis,  by  saponifying  in  part  the  fat  contained  in. 
the  blood  and  enabling  it  to  be  burnt  off  as  carbonic  acid.”  We  should  incline  to  the 
opinion  that  it  acts  by  slowly  poisoning  the  victim,  radically  disorganizing  his  blood,  and  ; 
hindering  his  nutrition.  For  the  purpose  intended  it  has  been  given  in  the  dose  of  1 or 
2 fluidrachms  three  times  a day — a dose  which  probably  no  stomach  could  long  receive 
with  impunity.  Experiments  and  observations  in  India  furnish  some  reason  for  think- 
ing that  solution  of  potassa  is  an  antidote  to  serpents’  bites.  They  are  not,  however, 
conclusive.  Nor  is  the  statement  more  probable  that  if  used  to  cauterize  the  bites  of 
rabid  animals  it  will  prevent  hydrophobia.  The  power  of  this  solution  to  dissolve 
organic  products  has  been  used  to  soften  the  nail  in  cases  of  ingrown  nail , and  gradually 
to  permit  its  removal,  leaving  the  fungous  granulations  free  from  its  irritation.  In  like  ■ 
manner  it  softens  the  callosities  of  corns , bunions,  and  similar  effects  of  local  pressure. 

It  has  been  recommended  to  add  solution  of  potassa  to  the  lime-water  used  for  atomized  | 
inhalations  in  diphtheritic  affections  of  the  throat  and  larynx,  in  the  proportion  of  10  or  • 
15  drops  to  5 or  6 ounces  of  lime-water  diluted  one-half  with  pure  water.  When  swal- 
lowed  in  poisonous  doses  the  proper  antidote  against  its  effects  is  vinegar  or  lemon-juice,  l 
followed  by  some  bland  oil. 

Solution  of  potassa  may  be  administered  internally  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.60-4  (npx- 
fgj),  largely  diluted  with  a mucilaginous  or  sweetened  aromatic  or  a bitter  infusion.  It 
should  not  be  prescribed  along  with  henbane,  belladonna,  or  stramonium,  whose  medicinal 
properties  it  destroys. 

LIQUOR  POTASSA  EFFERVESCENS,  Br. — Effervescing  Solution 

of  Potash. 

Aqua  potassa s effervescens. — Potash-water , E. ; Eau  alcaline  gazeuse , Fr. ; Alkahsches 
Mineralwasser , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Potassium  Bicarbonate  30  grains  ; Water  1 pint  (Imperial). 
Dissolve  the  bicarbonate  in  the  water  and  filter  the  solution  ; then  pass  into  it  as  much 
pure  washed  carbon  dioxide  gas,  obtained  by  the  action  of  sulphuric  acid  on  chalk,  as 
can  be  introduced  with  a pressure  of  four  atmospheres.  Keep  the  solution  in  bottles 
securely  closed  to  prevent  the  escape  of  the  compressed  gas. — Br. 

Properties  and  Tests. — The  solution  effervesces  strongly  when  the  containing 
vessel  is  opened,  carbon  dioxide  escaping ; it  is  clear  and  sparkling,  and  has  an  agree- 
able acidulous  taste.  10  fluidounces,  after  being  boiled  for  five  minutes,  require  for  neu- 
tralization 150  grain-measures  of  the  volumetric  solution  of  oxalic  acid.  5 fluidounces, 


LIQUOR  P0TASSI1  ARSEN ITIS. 


979 


evaporated  to  one-fifth,  and  12  grains  of  tartaric  acid  added,  yield  a crystalline  precipitate 
which,  when  dried,  weighs  not  less  than  12  grains. 

Uses. — The  remarks  made  under  Liquor  Magnesite  Carbonatis  are  applicable  to 
this  preparation. 

LIQUOR  POTASSII  ARSENITIS,  U.  S.— Solution  of  Potassium 

Arsenite. 

Liquor  arsenicalis , Br. ; Liquor  kalii  arsenicosi , P.  G. ; Solutio  arsenicalis  Fowleri , Kali 
arsenicosum  solutum. — Arsenical  solution , Fowler  s solution , E.  ; Liqueur  ( solution ) arse- 
nicale  de  Fowler , Fr. ; Fowler  sche  Tropfen , G. 

The  official  solutions  contain  1 Gm.  of  arsenous  acid  in  100  Cc.,  U.  S. ; 1 part  in  100 
by  weight,  Br.,  F.  Cod.,  P.  G. 

Preparation. — Arsenous  Acid,  in  fine  powder  10  Gm.  ; Potassium  Bicarbonate  20 
Gm. ; Compound  Tincture  of  Lavender  30  Cc. ; Distilled  Water,  a sufficient  quantity  to 
make  1000  Cc.  Boil  the  arsenous  acid  and  potassium  bicarbonate  with  100  Cc.  of  dis- 
tilled water,  until  solution  has  been  effected.  Then  add  enough  distilled  water  to  make 
the  solution,  when  cold,  measure  970  Cc.,  and  lastly,  add  the  compound  tincture  of  lav- 
ender. Filter  through  paper. — U.  S. 

To  prepare  i pint  of  Fowler’s  solution  37  grains  of  arsenous  acid  and  74  grains  of 
potassium  bicarbonate  should  be  boiled  with  6 fluidrachms  of  distilled  water  until  dis- 
solved ; when  cool,  sufficient  distilled  water  should  be  added  to  bring  the  volume  up  to 
7f  fluidounces,  and  finally  1 fluidounce  of  compound  spirit  of  lavender  is  to  be  added. 

Take  of  arsenous  acid,  in  powder,  potassium  carbonate,  each  87  grains  ; compound 
tincture  of  lavender  5 fluidrachms ; distilled  water  a sufficiency.  Place  the  arsenous 
acid  and  the  potassium  carbonate  in  a flask  with  10  ounces  of  the  water  and  apply  heat 
until  a clear  solution  is  obtained.  Allow  this  to  cool.  Then  add  the  compound  tincture 
of  lavender  and  as  much  distilled  water  as  will  make  the  bulk  1 pint  (Imperial). — Br. 

The  United  States  Pharmacopoeia  very  properly  directs  the  mixture  of  potassium  salt 
and  arsenous  acid  to  be  boiled  in  a small  quantity  of  water,  whereby  a combination  and 
solution  is  readily  effected.  When  arsenous  acid  and  potassium  bicarbonate  are  boiled 
together  with  water  in  the  proportion  directed  by  the  U.  S.  P.,  the  following  reaction 
probably  takes  place  : 4 KHC03  -f  As203  -f  3H20  = 2 K2HAs03  -f  4H20  -f  4C02. 
Since  the  Br.  and  G.  P.  order  equal  weights  of  arsenous  acid  and  normal  potassium 
carbonate  to  be  used,  a different  reaction  must  ensue,  and  potassium  meta-arsenite  is 
probably  present  in  the  solution,  according  to  the  equation  As203  -f  K2C03  = 2 KAsO* 
4-  C02 ; an  excess  of  potassium  carbonate  is  also  present,  as  1 part  of  arsenous  acid 
requires  less  than  f part  of  potassium  carbonate  to  form  the  meta-arsenite.  Some 
authorities  even  claim  that  the  solution  is  not  that  of  a definite  arsenical  compound  at 
all,  but  simply  a solution  of  the  arsenous  acid  in  the  alkaline  liquid,  and  that  the  U.  S. 
P.  solution  will  likewise  be  changed  to  this  condition  by  the  absorption  of  carbon  diox- 
ide from  the  atmosphere. 

Observations  made  by  Fresenius,  Dannenberg,  and  others  indicate  that  in  partially 
filled  bottles  the  arsenous  acid  is  gradually  oxidized  to  arsenic  acid,  which  is  considered 
to  be  far  less  poisonous  than  the  former.  It  is  evident,  therefore,  that  Fowler’s  solution 
cannot  be  kept  unchanged  for  an  indefinite  period,  and  it  is  advisable  that  it  be  prepared 
in  no  larger  quantities  than  will  be  sufficient  for  a few  months  or  a year,  or  that  it  be 
kept  in  small  well-sealed  bottles,  whereby  oxidation  is  prevented,  as  well  as  the  appear- 
ance of  a fungous  growth  which  often  takes  place  in  Fowler’s  solution  on  exposure  to  the 
air.  Delahaye  (1882)  regards  the  excess  of  alkali  used  as  favoring  this  growth,  and 
recommends  reducing  the  potassium  to  the  quantity  absolutely  necessary  for  retaining 
the  arsenic  in  permanent  solution,  or,  better  still,  replacing  it  by  sodium  bicarbonate,  2 
parts  of  which  will  be  sufficient  for  3 parts  of  arsenous  acid  ; these  changes,  however, 
do  not  prevent  the  development  of  mould,  though  they  may  possibly  retard  it. 

Properties. — Fowler’s  solution  is  a reddish  liquid,  at  first  somewhat  opalescent,  hav- 
ing an  alkaline  reaction  to  test-paper  and  the  odor  of  lavender ; that  of  the  French  and 
German  Pharmacopoeias  is  colorless,  and  is  flavored  with  compound  spirit  of  melissa.  Its 
specific  gravity  is  1.009.  It  gives  the  usual  reactions  of  arsenic,  and  requires  to  be  acid- 
ulated with  hydrochloric  acid  before  it  will  be  precipitated  by  hydrogen  sulphide. 

Tests.  On  being  acidulated  with  hydrochloric  acid  the  solution  should  not  acquire  a 
yej2w  c°lor  or  deposit  a yellow  precipitate  (absence  of  arsenic  sulphide). 

The  amount  of  arsenous  acid  contained  in  it  is  conveniently  ascertained  with  iodine. 


980 


LIQUOR  POTASSII  CITRATIS. 


with  starch-paste  as  an  indicator,  which  is  not  permanently  colored  blue  until  the  arsen- 
ous has  all  been  oxidized  to  arsenic  acid,  hydriodic  acid  being  formed  at  the  same  time* 
As203  + 5H20  -f-  2I2  yields  2H3As04  -j-  4HI.  “ If  24.7  Cc.  of  the  solution  are  boiled 
with  2 Gm.  of  sodium  bicarbonate,  the  liquid,  when  cold,  diluted  with  100  Cc.  of  water, 
and  some  gelatinized  starch  added,  it  should  require  from  49.4  to  50  Cc.  of  decinormal 
solution  of  iodine  until  the  blue  color  ceases  to  disappear  on  stirring  (corresponding  to 

1 Gm.  of  arsenous  acid  in  100  Cc.  of  the  solution.” — U.  S.  Or,  a5  Gm.  of  solution, 
mixed  with  20  Gm.  of  water,  1 Gm.  of  sodium  bicarbonate,  and  a few  drops  of  starch 
solution,  should  decolorize  10  Cc.  of  the  volumetric  solution  of  iodine,  and  on  the  fur- 
ther addition  of  0.1  Cc.  of  the  latter  should  acquire  a blue  color.” — P.  G.  “442  grains 
(1  fluidounce),  10  grains  of  sodium  bicarbonate,  and  6 fluidounces  of  distilled  water  con- 
taining a little  mucilage  of  starch,  treated  as  described,  require  875  grain-measures  of 
the  volumetric  solution  of  iodine,  indicating  4£  grains  of  arsenous  acid.” — Br. 

The  addition  of  sodium  bicarbonate  in  the  official  tests  is  for  the  purpose  of  neutral- 
izing the  newly-formed  arsenic  and  hydriodic  acids,  thus  preventing  decomposition  of 
the  latter  by  the  former,  which  would  vitiate  the  results  by  constantly  liberating  iodine. 

Uses. — The  action  and  uses  of  this  medicine  have  been  sufficiently  discussed  else- 
where. (See  Acidum  Arsenosum.)  It  is  sufficient  in  this  place  to  state  that  its  effi- 
cacy is  most  conspicuous  in  squamous  diseases  of  the  skin,  intermittent  fever,  neuralgia, 
especially  the  trifacial  nerve,  and  in  nervous  asthma.  The  commencing  dose  should  not 
exceed  Gm.  0.30  (gtt  v),  nor  should  it  be  given  when  the  stomach  is  empty,  nor  unless 
greatly  diluted. 

LIQUOR  POTASSII  CITRATIS,  U.  ^.-Solution  of  Potassium 

Citrate. 

Mistura  potassii  citratis  ; Liquor  kali  citrici. — Citrate  de  potasse  liquide,  Fr.  ; Kalium- 
citrat-Ldsung , G. 

Preparation. — Citric  Acid  6 Gm. ; Potassium  Bicarbonate  8 Gm. ; Water  a sufficient 
quantity.  Dissolve  the  citric  acid  and  the  potassium  bicarbonate  each  in  40  Cc.  of  water. 
Filter  the  solutions  separately,  and  wash  the  filters  with  enough  water  to  obtain  in  each 
case  50  Cc.  of  solution.  Finally,  mix  the  two  solutions,  and  when  effervescence  has 
ceased  transfer  the  liquid  to  a bottle.  This  preparation  should  be  freshly  made  when 
wanted  for  use. — U.  S. 

To  make  4 fluidounces  of  the  official  solution  use  111  grains  of  citric  acid  and  148 
grains  of  potassium  bicarbonate,  dissolving  each  separately  in  2 ounces  of  water. 

This  solution  of  potassium  citrate  differs  from  Mistura  potassi  citratis  U.  S.  1880, 
in  the  absence  of  the  yellowish  color  and  the  agreeable  lemon  flavor.  It  contains 
about  9 per  cent,  of  anhydrous  potassium  citrate  and  small  amounts  of  citric  and 
carbonic  acids,  which  latter  impart  to  the  liquid  a pleasant  acidulous  taste. 

The  direction  to  make  the  solution  fresh  as  wanted  is  a commendable  one,  since  aque- 
ous solutions  of  citric  acid  undergo  decomposition  (see  page  51). 

Potio  Riveri,  P.  G.,  is  less  than  one-third  the  strength  of  the  preceding ; it  is  made 
from  citric  acid  4 parts,  water  190  parts,  and  crystalized  sodium  carbonate  9 parts. 

Potio  de  Riviere,  F.  Cod.  Dissolve  citric  acid  and  potassium  bicarbonate,  of  each 

2 Gm.,  separately  in  water  50  Gm.  and  syrup  15  Gm.  ; the  solutions  are  often  dispensed 
in  separate  vials. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  preparation  is  nearly  identical  in  its  action  with  Liq. 
potassii  effervescens,  Br.  P.,  and  with  the  effervescing  draught  prepared  extemporane- 
ously. When  the  intention  is  solely  to  affect  the  system  after  the  absorption  of  the  salt, 
either  of  the  first  two  will  lessen  the  tension  of  the  capillaries  and  promote  diaphoresis ; 
but  when  it  is  intended  at  the  same  time  to  make  an  impression  upon  the  stomach  itself, 
the  carbondioxide  extricated  during  effervescence  becomes  an  important  part  of  the  dose. 
The  primary  action  of  the  gas  is  to  stimulate  organically,  while  it  perhaps  anaesthetizes, 
the  gastric  mucous  membrane,  as  may  be  inferred  from  the  many  cases  of  gastric  hyper- 
aemia  and  irritation  in  which  it  allays  nausea  and  vomiting.  It  may  therefore  be  some- 
times used  with  advantage  when  the  stomach  is  disordered,  although  fever  may  be  absent. 
Either  solution  may  have  its  diaphoretic  power  increased  by  the  addition  of  spirit  of 
nitrous  ether,  of  solution  of  morphine,  or  of  antimonial  wine  or  tartar  emetic,  in  very 
small,  non-nauseating  doses. 

The  dose  of  the  neutral  mixture  is  a tablespoonful  (Gm.  16)  ; of  the  effervescing  mix- 
ture, a tablespoonful  (Gm.  16)  of  each  of  the  two  solutions  should  be  mixed,  and  swal- 


LIQUOR  POTASSII  PERMANGANA TIS.—SO DM. 


981 


lowed  while  effervescing.  The  dose  should  be  repeated  every  hour  until  the  object  in 
view  is  attained  or  defeated. 

LIQUOR  POTASSII  PERMANGANATIS,  Hr, — Solution  op  Potassium 

Permanganate  . 

Liquor  potassse  permanganate. — Solute  de  permanganate  de  potasse,  Fr. ; Kalium-per- 
manganaf-Ldsung  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Potassium  Permanganate  88  grains ; Distilled  Water  1 pint 
(Imperial).  Dissolve. — Br. 

The  solution  contains  1 per  cent,  of  potassium  permanganate,  and  has  the  purple  color 
and  the  chemical  behaviour  of  the  salt. 

Uses, — The  official  solution,  of  4 grains  of  the  salt  to  an  ounce  of  distilled  water, 
appears  unnecessary,  since  it  is  too  weak  for  many  purposes  and  too  strong  for  others. 
(For  its  uses  and  doses,  see  Potassii  Permanganas.) 

LIQUOR  SOD^E,  77.  S.,  Hr, — Solution  of  Soda. 

# Liquor  natri  caustici , P.  G. ; Natrum  hydricum  solutum. — Soude  caustique  liquide,  Les- 
sive  des  savonniers , Fr. ; Aetznatronlauge , G. 

An  aqueous  solution  of  sodium  hydroxide,  NaOH ; molecular  weight  39.96— contain- 
ing 5 per  cent.  U.  S.,  4.1  per  cent.  Br .,  15  per  cent.  P.  G.,  23  per  cent.  F.  Cod,,  of  the 
hydroxide.  Specific  gravity  of  the  official  solutions:  1.059  U.  S.,  1.047  Br 1.33  F. 
Cod.,  1.168  to  1.172  P.  G. 

Preparation.  Sodium  Carbonate  170  Gm.  ; Lime  50  Gm. ; Distilled  Water  a suffi- 
cient quantity.  Dissolve  the  sodium  carbonate  in  400  Cc.  of  boiling  distilled  water. 
Slake  the  lime,  and  make  it  into  a smooth  mixture  with  400  Cc.  of  distilled  water,  and 
heat  it  to  boiling.  Then  gradually  add  the  first  liquid  to  the  second,  and  continue  the 
boiling  for  ten  minutes.  Remove  the  heat,  cover  the  vessel  tightly,  and  when  the  con- 
tents are  cold  add  enough  distilled  water  to  make  the  whole  mixture  weigh  1000  Gm. 
Lastly,  strain  it  through  linen,  set  the  liquid  aside  in  a well-stoppered  bottle  until  it  is  clear, 
and  remove  the  clear  solution  by  means  of  a siphon. 

Solution  of  Soda  may  also  be  prepared  in  the  following  manner  : Soda  56  Gm. ; dis- 
tilled water  944  Gm. ; to  make  1000  Gm.  Dissolve  the  soda  in  the  distilled  water.  The 
soda  used  in  this  process  should  be  of  the  full  strength  directed  by  the  Pharmacopoeia 
(90  per  cent.).  Soda  of  any  other  strength,  however,  many  be  used  if  a proportionately 
larger  or  smaller  quantity  be  taken,  the  proper  amount  for  the  above  formula  being  ascer- 
tained by  dividing  5000  by  the  percentage  of  absolute  sodium  hydroxide  contained 
therein.  Solution  of  soda  should  be  kept  in  well-stoppered  bottles. — U.  S. 

To  prepare  1 pint  of  solution  of  soda  432  grains  of  the  official  sodium  hydroxide  may 
be  dissolved  in  sufficient  distilled  water  to  obtain  16  fluidounces  of  finished  product. 

Take  of  carbonate  of  soda  28  ounces;  slaked  lime  12  ounces;  distilled  water  1 gallon. 
Dissolve  the  carbonate  of  soda  in  the  water,  and,  having  heated  the  solution  to  the  boil- 
ing-point in  a clean  iron  vessel,  gradually  add  the  washed  slaked  lime,  and  continue  the 
ebullition  for  10  minutes,  with  constant  stirring.  Then  remove  the  vessel  from  the  fire, 
and  when,  by  the  subsidence  of  the  insoluble  matter,  the  supernatant  liquor  has  become 
perfectly  clear,  transfer  it  by  means  of  a siphon  to  a green  glass  bottle  furnished  with  an 
air-tight  stopper,  and  add  distilled  water,  if  necessary,  to  make  it  correspond  with  the 
tests  of  specific  gravity  and  neutralizing  power. — Br. 

The  process  is  quite  analogous  to  that  for  the  preparation  of  caustic  potassa,  and  what 
has  been  said  about  the  manipulation  (see  Liquor  Potassa:)  applies  equally  well  in  this 
f ase.  1 part  of  burned  lime,  if  pure,  is  sufficient  to  decompose  5 parts  of  crystallized 
sodium  carbonate ; in  both  the  above  formulas  the  quantity  of  the  former  ordered  may 
without  disadvantage  be  reduced. 

Properties. — Soda  solution  is  a clear  and  colorless  liquid  of  the  density  given  above, 
and  has  a strong  alkaline  reaction  and  a very  caustic  taste  ; the  peculiar  slight  odor  which 
it  usually  has  is  solely  due  to  the  accidental  presence  of  organic  matters,  which  are  likely 
to  impart  also  a yellowish  color.  It  dissolves  various  organic  matters  and  tissues,  and 
decomposes  fats,  forming  soaps.  It  has  a great  affinity  for  carbonic  acid,  and  should  be 
preserved  in  well-stopped  bottles  made  of  glass  free  from  lead,  the  stopper  being  pro- 
tected by  a thin  layer  of  paraffin.  In  its  chemical  behavior  it  closely  resembles  potassa 

utl?n>  unlike  the  latter,  it  does  not  yield  a crystalline  precipitate  with  excess  of 
tartanc  acid,  except  in  concentrated  solutions ; with  hydrochloric  acid  and  platinum 


982 


LIQUOR  SODjE. 


chloride  it  does  not  yield  a yellow  precipitate,  and  when,  by  means  of  a platinum  wire,  a 
drop  of  it  is  held  in  a non-luminous  flame,  an  intense  yellow  color  is  imparted  to  the 
latter. 

Tests. — Soda  solution  should  not  effervesce,  or  at  most  should  evolve  only  isolated 
bubbles  of  carbon  dioxide,  on  being  dropped  into  an  acid.  “ If  1 part  of  it  be  boiled  with 
4 parts  of  lime-water,  the  liquid  filtered  into  nitric  acid  should  not  cause  any  efferves- 
cence (not  over  per  cent,  carbonic  acid  as  carbonate).” — P.  G.  The  solution  acidu- 
lated with  nitric  acid  should  not  cause  more  than  a slight  cloudiness  with  barium  nitrate 
(sulphate),  silver  nitrate  (chloride),  or  sodium  carbonate  (alumina,  earths),  and  when 
evaporated  to  dryness  and  redissolved  in  water  should  leave  only  a minute  quantity  of 
insoluble  matter  (silica),  and  furnish  a liquid  which  is  not  precipitated  by  test  solution 
of  magnesium  (phosphate).  The  absence  of  nitrate  and  of  heavy  metals  is  shown  as 
described  for  Liquor  Potass^e.  £:  To  neutralize  20  Gm.  of  solution  of  soda  should 
require  not  less  than  25  Cc.  of  the  normal  solution  of  sulphuric  acid.” — U.  S.  458 
grains  (1  fluidounce)  of  the  solution  require  470  grain-measures  of  the  volumetric 
solution. — Br. 

The  following  table  by  Gerlach  (1869)  gives  the  specific  gravity  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  of 
soda  solution  containing  from  1 to  60  per  cent,  of  sodium  oxide  and  the  same  percentage 
of  sodium  hydroxide. 


Per- 

centage. 

Na20. 

NaOH. 

Per- 

centage. 

Na20. 

NaOH. 

Per- 

centage. 

Na20. 

NaOH. 

1 

1.015 

1.012 

21 

1.300 

1.236 

41 

1.570 

1.447 

2 

1.029 

1.023 

22 

1.315 

1.247 

42 

1.583 

1.456 

3 

1.043 

1.035 

23 

1.329 

1.258 

43 

1.597 

1.468 

4 

1.058 

1.046 

24 

1.341 

1.269 

44 

1.610 

1.478 

5 

1.074 

1.059 

25 

1.355 

1.279 

45 

1.623 

1.488 

6 

1.089 

1.070 

26 

1.369 

1.290 

46 

1.637 

1.499 

7 

1.104 

1.081 

27 

1.381 

1.300 

47 

1.650 

1.508 

8 

1.119 

1.092 

28 

1.395 

1.310 

48 

1.663 

1.519 

9 

1.132 

1.103 

29 

1.410 

1.321 

49 

1.678 

1.529 

10 

1.145 

1.115 

30 

1.422 

1.332 

50 

1.690 

1.540 

11 

1.160 

1.126 

31 

1.438 

1.343 

51 

1.705 

1.550 

12 

1 1.175 

1.137 

32 

1.450 

1.351 

52 

1.719 

1.560 

13 

I 1.190 

1.148 

33 

1.462 

1.363 

53 

1.730 

1.570 

14 

1.203 

1.159 

34 

1.475 

1.374 

54 

1.745 

1.580 

15 

1.219 

1.170 

35 

1.480 

1.384 

55 

1.760 

1.591 

16 

1.233 

1.181 

36 

1.500 

1.395 

56 

1.770 

1.601 

17 

1.245 

1.191 

37 

1.515 

1.405 

57 

1.785 

1.611 

18 

1.258 

1.202 

38 

1.530 

1.415 

58 

1.800 

1.622 

19 

1.270 

1.213 

39 

1.543 

1.420 

59 

1.815 

1.633 

20 

1.285 

1.225 

40 

1.558 

1.437 

1 60 

1.830 

1.643 

Allied  Preparation. — Sodium  ethylate,  C2H5NaO,  or  caustic  alcohol , was  recommended  by  T)r. 
B.  W.  Richardson  (1870).  Half  a fluidounce  of  absolute  alcohol  is  put  into  a two-ounce  test-tube, 
immersed  in  water  of  10°  C.  (50°  F.),  and  metallic  sodium  is  added  in  small  pieces  until  the  evo- 
lution of  hydrogen  ceases,  when  the  temperature  is  raised  to  37.8°  C.  (100°  F.),  and  the  addition 
of  sodium  continued  until  hydrogen  ceases  to  be  given  off ; the  compound  is  then  dissolved  in  half 
a fluidounce  of  absolute  alcohol.  According  to  Liebig  (1837),  the  action  is  rapidly  completed  at 
509  C.  (122°  F.),  and  on  cooling  the  sodium  ethylate  crystallizes  in  large  colorless  laminae  It 
may  be  rubbed  into  powder  and  preserved  in  well-stoppered  vials. 

Liquor  sodii  ethylatis,  Br .,  is  made  by  dissolving  metallic  sodium  22  grains  in  ethylic  (abso- 
lute) alcohol  1 fluidounce,  contained  in  a flask  and  kept  cool  by  water.  It  is  a colorless,  syrupy 
liquid,  of  spec.  grav.  0.867,  becomes  brown  by  keeping,  and  contains  19  per  cent  of  NaC2II50. 

Action  and  Uses. — Solution  of  soda  is  seldom  used  therapeutically,  and  then 
chiefly  in  cases  of  “torpor  of  the  liver.”  Dose , Gm.  0.60-4  (gtt.  x-lx),  largely  diluted. 

Sodium  ethylate. — According  to  Dr.  Richardson,  the  following  are  the  results  of 
applying  sodium  ethylate  to  living  tissues : 1,  a removal  of  water  from  the  tissue ; 2,  the 
destructive  action  of  the  resulting  caustic  soda ; 3,  coagulation  from  the  alcohol  that  is 
reproduced ; 4,  prevention  of  decomposition  in  the  resulting  dead  tissue.  It  was  em- 
ployed by  Dr.  Brunton  in  the  treatment  of  nsevus  in  1871.  He  describes  its  action  as 
follows : u Laid  on  dry  parts  of  the  body,  the  sodium  ethylate  is  comparatively  inert, 
creating  no  more  change  than  the  redness  and  tingling  caused  by  common  alcohol ; but 
as  soon  as  the  part  to  which  the  substance  is  applied  gives  up  a little  water,  the  trans- 
formation described  above  occurs,  caustic  soda  is  produced  in  contact  with  the  skin  in 
proportion  as  water  is  eliminated,  and  there  proceeds  a gradual  destruction  of  tissues 
which  may  be  moderated  so  as  hardly  to  be  perceptible  or  may  be  so  intensified  as  to  act 


LIQUOR  SODjE  CHLORATE. 


983 


almost  like  a cutting  instrument.”  “ Applied  direct  to  the  unbroken  skin,  the  destruc- 
tive action  is  less  painful  than  would  be  expected,  and  when  pain  is  felt  it  may  be 
checked  quickly  by  dropping  upon  the  part  a little  chloroform,  which  decomposes  the 
alcohol,  converting  it  into  a chloride  salt  and  ether.”  “ The  caustic  alcohols  may  be 
used  in  combination  with  local  anaesthesia  from  cold.  A part  rendered  quite  dead  to 
pain  by  freezing  with  ether  spray  may  be  directly  destroyed  by  the  subcutaneous  injec- 
tion of  caustic  alcohol — a practice  very  important  in  the  treatment  of  poisoned  bounds. 
It  is  by  no  means  improbable  that  cystic  tumors  may  be  cured  by  the  simple  subcuta- 
neous injection  of  a little  of  those  fluids  after  destruction  of  their  sensibility  by  cold. 
Potassium  and  sodium  alcohol,  added  to  the  volatile  hydride  of  amyl,  dissolve  the 
hydride  and  produce  a caustic  solution.”  Dr.  Brunton  states  that,  compared  with  the 
action  of  nitric  acid,  there  is  but  little  destruction  of  the  epidermis,  and  he  considers 
that  sodium  ethylate  acts  as  an  astringent,  and  that  the  pain  is  not  so  severe  as  that 
caused  by  nitric  acid.  In  his  cases  hardly  any  scarring  ensued.  The  ethylate  affects 
but  little  the  healthy  skin  ; it  restricts  its  action  to  the  spot  on  which  it  is  applied.  Dr. 
Richardson  (London  Lancet,  Feb.  12,  1881)  has  reported  cases  of  tattoo  and  mother's 
marks,  hypertrichosis,  nasal  polypus , ozena,  and  lupus  in  which  the  caustic  produced  good 
results,  as  well  as  in  minor  affections,  such  as  warts , small  melanotic  growths,  ringworm, 
and  hemorrhoids.  (Compare  Welsh,  British  Med.  Jour.,  Aug.  22,  1885  ; Taylor,  ibid., 
Oct.  6,  1888;  Startin,  Practitioner,  xxxiv.  370;  Jamison,  ibid.,  xliii.  1,  81.) 

Dr.  Richardson  states  that  the  liberated  alcohol  coagulates  the  albuminous  compounds 
in  its  neighborhood,  and  thus  limits  the  caustic  action  of  the  soda.  The  red  corpuscles 
become  disintegrated,  and  then  crystalline,  while  the  white  are  for  a time  left  unaffected. 
The  risk  of  too  great  haemorrhage  from  the  rapid  action  of  the  ethylate  in  cases  of  pend- 
ent vascular  tumors  may  be  met  by  diluting  the  ethylate  with  alcohol,  so  as  to  promote 
coagulation  ; and  the  pain  caused  by  it  may  be  mitigated  by  mixing  it  with  laudanum. 
It  should  be  applied  with  a camel’s-hair  brush. 

LIQUOR  SOD.ZE  CHLORATE,  U.  S. — Solution  of  Chlorinated 

Soda. 

Liquor  sode  chlorinate,  Br. ; Liquor  natri  chlorati , Liquor  natri  hypochlorosi. — Labar- 
raques  solution , E. ; Chlorure  de  soude  liquide,  Liqueur  de  Labarraque,  Fr. ; Chlornatron- 
losung,  Bleichfliissigkeit , G. 


An  aqueous  solution  of  several  chlorine  compounds  of  sodium,  chiefly  NaCIO  and  NaCl, 
and  containing  at  least  2.6  per  cent,  by  weight  of  available  chlorine. 

Preparation. — Sodium  Carbonate  150  Gm. ; Chlorinated  Lime  75  Gm. ; Water,  a 
sufficient  quantity;  to  make  1000  Gm.  Triturate  the  chlorinated  lime  with  200  Cc.  of 
water,  gradually  added,  until  a uniform  mixture  results.  Allow  the  heavier  particles  to 
subside,  and  transfer  the  thinner,  supernatant  portion  to  a filter.  Then  triturate  the 
residue  again  with  200  Cc.  of  water,  transfer  the  whole  to  the  filter,  and  when  the  liquid 
has  drained  off,  wash  the  filter  and  contents  with  100  Cc.  of  water.  Dissolve  the  sodium 
carbonate  in  300  Cc.  of  hot  water,  and  add  this  solution  to  the  previously  obtained 
filtrate  contained  in  a suitable  vessel.  Stir  or  shake  the  mixture  thoroughly,  and,  if  it 
should  become  gelatinous,  warm  the  vessel  until  the  contents  liquefy.  Then  transfer 
the  mixture  to  a new  filter,  and,  when  no  more  liquid  drains  from  it.  wash  the  filter  and 
contents  with  enough  water  to  make  the  product  weigh  1000  Gm.  Keep  the  solution  in 
well-stoppered  bottles,  protected  from  the  light. — U.  S. 

To  prepare  1 gallon  of  Labarraque’s  solution  21  av.  ozs.  of  sodium  carbonate,  dissolved 
in  44  fluidounces  of  hot  water,  should  be  added  to  a solution  of  101  av.  ozs.  of  chlorin- 
ated lime  in  64  fluidounces  of  water  (prepared  as  directed  above)  ; after  the  mixture  has 
been  well  shaken  and  filtered  enough  water  should  be  passed  through  the  filter  to  bring 
the  volume  of  the  solution  up  to  8 pints. 

Take  of  chlorinated  lime  16  ounces;  sodium  carbonate  24  ounces;  distilled  water  1 
gallon.  Dissolve  the  sodium  carbonate  in  2 pints  of  the  distilled  water ; thoroughly 
triturate  the  chlorinated  lime  with  6 pints  of  the  water  and  filter  ; mix  well  the  solutions  ; 
again  filter.  Keep  the  solution  in  a stoppered  bottle  in  a cool  and  dark  place. — Br. 

Dry  chlorinated  lime  100  Gm. ; crystallized  sodium  carbonate  200  Gm. ; distilled  water 
4o00  Gm.  Triturate  the  chlorinated  lime  in  a porcelain  mortar  with  a portion  of  the 
water,  and  separate  by  decantation  the  finest  portion  ; triturate  the  residue,  add  more  of 
the  water,  and  decant  as  before ; repeat  this  operation  until  two-thirds  of  the  water  have 
een  used.  Dissolve  the  sodium  salt  in  the  remaining  water,  mix  the  two  liquids,  let  settle, 
and  filter. — F.  Cod.  ^ 


984 


LIQUOR  SOD^E  CHLORATE. 


The  process  of  the  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia  yields  the  chlorinated  soda  by  double  decom- 
position of  chlorinated  lime  with  sodium  carbonate,  whereby  calcium  carbonate  is  precip- 
itated, the  chlorinated  soda  remaining  in  solution,  together  with  the  sodium  chloride 
resulting  from  the  decomposition  of  calcium  chloride  present  in  the  lime  compound  and 
with  the  excess  of  sodium  carbonate  employed.  The  solution  of  sodium  carbonate  is  now 
directed  to  be  boiling  hot  when  added  to  the  mixture  of  chlorinated  lime  and  water,  the 
object  being  the  precipitation  of  a dense  calcium  corbonate.  If  no  heat  is  employed,  the  pre- 
cipitate will  be  very  light  and  retain  a very  large  proportion  of  the  liquid.  But  heat  should 
not  be  applied  after  the  mixture  has  been  made,  since  the  solutions  of  chlorinated  alkalies 
are  decomposed  thereby  into  chloride  and  chlorate,  oxygen  being  at  the  same  time 
evolved ; in  the  presence  of  much  free  alkali  the  decomposition  takes  place  less  readily. 
The  French  Codex  directs  the  same  process,  the  liquids  being  mixed  without  heating. 
For  75  parts  of  chlorinated  lime,  150  parts  U.  a S'.,  F.  Cod , of  crystallized  sodium  car- 
bonate are  used,  and  sufficient  water  to  make  a total  weight  of  1000  parts  U.  3375 
parts  F.  Cod. ; the  chlorine  strength  of  the  former  is  therefore  nearly  3J  times  that  of 
the  latter.  The  liquid  which  remains  mechanically  enclosed  in  the  precipitate  may  be 
washed  out  upon  a strainer  by  water  and  utilized  for  bleaching  purposes,  but  owing  to 
its  uncertain  strength  is  not  adapted  for  medicinal  use. 

The  Br.  P.  process  differs  from  the  preceding  ones  mainly  in  this,  that  although  the 
solution  of  chlorinated  lime  is  filtered,  an  uncertain  quantity  of  this  liquid  remains  with 
the  insoluble  portion.  The  former  directed  chlorine  gas  to  be  passed  into  the  dissolved 
sodium  carbonate,  whereby  one-half  of  the  salt  is  acted  upon,  resulting  in  the  production 
of  sodium  chloride  and  hypochlorite  and  the  liberation  of  carbon  dioxide,  which  unites 
with  the  other  half  of  the  salt  to  form  sodium  bicarbonate  ; 2Na2C03  + Cl2  + H20  yields 
NaCl.NaCIO  + 2NaHC03.  If  the  action  of  chlorine  is  continued,  the  sodium  hypo- 
chlorite is  decomposed,  sodium  chloride  and  hypochlorous  anhydride  being  formed ; Na- 
CIO  -f-  Cl2  yields  NaCI  -f-  C120.  The  last-mentioned  compound,  which  has  a yellowish 
color,  seems  to  decompose  the  bicarbonate  with  difficulty. 

Properties. — The  solution  is  clear  and  colorless,  not  pale-greenish,  as  described  by 
the  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia,  a yellowish  color  being  imparted  only  when  the  process  of  the 
British  Pharmacopoeia  has  been  followed  and  an  excess  of  chlorine  has  been  used.  Its 
specific  gravity  is  1.052.  It  has  a feeble  odor  of  chlorine,  and  a saline  somewhat  styptic 
and  sharp  alkaline  taste,  and  bleaches  indigo,  litmus,  and  vegetable  colors  like  chlorine, 
but  less  energetically.  With  solution  of  ferrous  sulphate  it  produces  a brown  precipitate 
of  ferric  hydroxide,  and  with  solution  of  lead  salt  a brown  one  of  lead  dioxide ; the  color 
of  both  precipitates  is  lighter,  from  carbonate  present,  if  an  excess  of  the  metallic  salts 
be  used.  On  the  addition  of  hydrochloric  acid  effervescence  takes  place,  the  gas  consist- 
ing of  carbon  dioxide  and  chlorine,  the  latter  resulting  from  the  mutual  reaction  of  the 
hydrochloric  and  hypochlorous  acids  ; thus  : NaCl.NaCIO  + 2HC1  = 2NaCl  -f-  HC1  + 
HCIO,  and  HC1  + HCIO  = Cl2  + H20.  It  is  upon  the  amount  of  this  available  chlorine 
that  the  value  of  this  preparation  depends. 

Tests. — Solution  of  chlorinated  soda  is  not  precipitated  by  ammonium  oxalate  (absence 
of  calcium).  “ If  6.7  (6.74)  Gm.  of  the  solution  be  mixed  with  50  Cc.  of  water,  then  2 
Gm.  of  potassium  iodide  and  10  Cc.  of  hydrochloric  acid  added,  together  with  a few  drops 
of  starch  test-solution,  it  should  require  not  less  than  50  Cc.  of  decinormal  sodium  thio- 
sulphate solution  to  discharge  the  blue  or  greenish  tint  of  the  liquid  (each  Cc.  of  the 
volumetric  solution  corresponding  to  0.052  per  cent,  of  available  chlorine).” — U.  S.  The 
chlorine  set  free  liberates  an  equivalent  quantity  of  iodine,  which  imparts  a blue  color  to 
the  solution  containing  starch,  and  this  color  disappears  on  the  addition  of  the  thiosul- 
phate. The  same  process,  but  without  starch,  is  used  by  the  British  Pharmacopoeia,  70 
grains  of  the  chlorinated  solution  being  mixed  with  a solution  of  20  grains  of  potassium 
iodide  in  4 fluidounces  of  water  and  acidulated  with  2 fluidrachms  of  hydrochloric  acid ; 
the  brown  color  should  be  discharged  by  500  grain-measures  of  the  volumetric  solution 
of  sodium  thiosulphate  (2£  per  cent.  Cl). 

A preparation  analogous  to  the  preceding  in  composition  and  identical  in  bleaching 
effects  is  Liquor  potassee  chloratse , Chlorinated  potassa  solution  (Chlorure  de  potasse,  I r. ; 
Chlorkaiilosung,  G .),  which  is  perhaps  better  known  by  its  French  designation,  Eau  de 
javelle.  It  is  obtained  by  substituting  equivalent  quantities  of  potassium  carbonate  for 
the  sodium  carbonate  ordered  in  the  above  processes. 

Action  and  Uses. — Under  the  impression  that  its  antiseptic  qualities  fitted  it  to 
counteract  morbid  processes  which  were  theoretically  supposed  to  depend  upon  putridity, 
it  has  been  largely  employed  in  typhoid  fever  and  typhoid  diseases  generally,  but  without 


LIQUOR  SODJE  EFFER VESCENS. — SOD II  SILICA TIS. 


985 


obvious  advantage.  But  as  a topical  application  to  gangrenous  sores  and  to  other  un- 
healthy ulcers , such  as  affect  the  mouth  in  inercurialization , in  diphtheria , scarlatina , and 
scurvy , the  nostrils  in  ozsena,  the  uterus , the  vagina , and  the  auditory  canal , it  corrects  the 
offensive  odor  of  the  secretions  and  stimulates  the  parts  to  separate  dead  tissue  and 
assume  a healthy  action.  For  simple  ulcers  of  an  indolent  aspect,  especially  such  as 
result  from  burns,  or  which  affect  the  nipples  and  the  genital  organs  of  females,  this  liquid 
generally  acts  as  a wholesome  stimulant. 

It  may  be  given  internally  in  doses  varying  from  Gm.  2-4  (gtt.  xxx-lx)  in  water  or 
some  mild  liquid,  and  repeated  every  two  or  three  hours.  As  a gargle  it  should  be 
diluted  with  8 or  10  parts  of  water,  and  used  of  the  same  strength  for  an  injection  into 
the  vagina,  uterus,  or  bladder,  and  as  a lotion  for  burns,  excoriations,  and  cutaneous 
eruptions. 

LIQUOR  SODJE  EFFERVESCENS,  Br. — Effervescing  Solution  of 

Soda. 

Aqua  sodae  effervescens , Aqua  alcalina  effervescens. — Soda-water , E.  ; Eau  alcaline  gazeuse , 
Fr. ; Sodaicasser,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Sodium  Bicarbonate  30  grains:  Water  1 pint.  Dissolve 
the  sodium  bicarbonate  in  the  water  and  filter  the  solution  ; then  pass  into  it  as  much 
pure  washed  carbon  dioxide  gas,  obtained  by  the  action  of  sulphuric  acid  on  chalk,  as  can 
be  introduced  with  a pressure  of  four  atmospheres.  Keep  the  solution  in  bottles  securely 
closed  to  prevent  the  escape  of  the  compressed  gas. — Br. 

This  corresponds  to  the  effervescing  solution  of  potash,  and  has  the  same  physical  prop- 
erties. 10  fluidounces,  after  being  boiled  for  five  minutes,  require  for  neutralizing  178 
grain-measures  of  the  volumetric  solution  of  oxalic  acid. — Br. 

The  corresponding  solution  of  the  French  Codex  is  made  by  dissolving  3.12  Gm.  (48 
grains)  of  sodium  bicarbonate,  0.23  Gm.  (31  grains)  of  potassium  bicarbonate,  0.35  Gm. 
(5?  grains)  of  magnesium  sulphate,  and  0.08  Gm.  (II  grains)  of  sodium  chloride  in  650 
Gm.  (21  troyounces)  of  water,  and  impregnating  the  solution  with  carbon  dioxide  gas. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  preparation  appears  to  be  superfluous.  The  quantity  of 
sodium  bicarbonate  required  in  any  particular  case  can  be  administered  in  carbonated 
water,  or  can  be  supplied  by  Soda  or  Seidlitz  powders. 

LIQUOR  SODH  ARSENATIS,  77.  S. — Solution  of  Sodium  Arsenate. 

Liquor  sodii  arseniatis , Br. — Solution  of  arseniate  of  sodium , E. ; Liqueur  ( Solute ) 
d'arseniate  de  soude , Fr. ; Arsensaure  Natronlosung , G. 

Preparation. — Sodium  Arsenate,  deprived  of  its  water  of  crystallization  by  a heat 
not  exceeding  149°  C.  (300°  F.),  1 Gm. ; Distilled  Water  a sufficient  quantity,  to  make 
100  Cc.  Dissolve  the  sodium  arsenate  in  the  distilled  water. — U.  S. 

The  above  formula  yields  nearly  31  fluidounces  of  solution,  and  hence  each  fluidrachm 
contains  about  I grain  of  the  anhydrous  salt. 

Take  of  sodium  arsenate  (rendered  anhydrous  by  a heat  not  exceeding  300°  F.)  9 
grains  ; distilled  water  2 fluidounces.  Dissolve. — Br. 

The  Liqueur  arsenicale  de  Pearson  of  the  French  Codex  is  made  by  dissolving  1 part 
of  crystallized  sodium  arsenate  in  600  parts  of  distilled  water,  and  is,  therefore,  only 
about  one-tenth  the  strength  of  the  above.  1 part  of  the  exsiccated  salt  is  contained  in 
100  U.  S.,  Br.,  and  about  1000  F.  Cod.  parts. 

The  solutions  are  colorless,  and  give  the  reactions  of  Sodium  Arsenate,  which  see. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  preparation  does  not  appear  to  possess  any  demonstrable 
advantages  over  the  solution  of  potassium  arsenate.  It  may  be  employed  in  similar  doses , 
or  from  Gm.  0.15-0.30  (gtt.  iij-vj),  largely  diluted  and  after  meals. 

LIQUOR  SODH  SILICATIS,  77.  Solution  of  Sodium  Silicate. 

Liquor  natrii  silicici , P.  G.  ; Natrum  silicium  solutum,  Vitrium  solubile. — Liquid  glass , 
Soluble  glass,  E. ; Silicate  de  soude  liquid e,  Verre  soluble,  Verre  liquule,  Fr. ; Natriumsili- 
kat-Losung , Wasserglas,  Natronwasserglas , G. 

Origin. — The  element  silicon  or  silicium  (Si  ; atomic  weight  28.3)  is  an  important  con- 
stituent of  many  minerals  and  rocks.  Rock-crystal  is  pure  silica  or  silicic  oxide,  Si02,  and 
quartz , sand , amethyst,  chalcedony,  agate,  flint,  and  other  minerals  are  chiefly  composed 


986 


LIQUOR  SOI) II  SILICATIS. 


of  the  same  oxide.  A combination  of  this  oxide  with  alkali  and  other  bases  became 
known  at  an  early  date  with  the  discovery  of  glass ; and  about  1640,  Van  Helmont 
noticed  that  the  compound  of  silex  and  salt  of  tartar  (potassium  carbonate)  would  liquefy 
in  a damp  atmosphere.  This  liquid  became  known  as  Liquor  silicum — Liquor  of  flints, 
E. ; Liqueur  des  cailloux,  Fr. ; Kieselfeuchtigkeit,  G.  The  usefulness  of  such  a solu- 
tion for  rendering  inflammable  substances  incombustible  was  proved  by  J.  N.  Fuchs 
(1818).  In  its  preparation  soda  was  soon  substituted  for  potash,  and  the  designation 
“ liquid’’  or  “soluble  glass”  applied  indiscriminately  to  both  compounds,  which  are  used 
in  calico-printing,  as  an  addition  to  cheap  soaps,  in  fresco-painting,  for  manufacturing  arti- 
ficial stone,  for  cements,  and  for  other  purposes.  In  1880  the  United  States  imported 
over  1,000,000  pounds,  in  1882  only  106,101  pounds,  of  sodium  silicate. 

Preparation.— Sodium  silicate  is  usually  made  by  fusing  together  a mixture  of  1 
part  of  fine  sand  or  powdered  flint  and  2 parts  of  exsiccated  sodium  carbonate  dissolving 
the  product  in  boiling  water,  filtering,  and  evaporating  ; or  8 parts  of  exsiccated  sodium 
carbonate,  15  parts  of  fine  sand,  and  1 part  of  charcoal  are  used,  the  latter  merely  serv- 
ing as  a means  for  facilitating  the  decomposition  of  the  carbonate,  the  gas  evolved  being 
partly  carbonic  oxide.  L.  Buchner  recommended  as  a cheap  material  for  its  preparation 
10  parts  of  powdered  quartz,  6 parts  of  calcined  sodium  sulphate,  and  11  or  2 parts  of 
charcoal.  A mixture  of  soda  and  potash  with  silica  is  more  rapidly  fusible  than  the 
former.  The  proportion  of  the  ingredients,  however,  is  varied  according  to  the  use  to  be 
made  of  the  compound,  and  a more  glass-like  and  less-readily  soluble  mass  is  obtained  by 
the  fusion  of  2 parts  of  silica  and  3 parts  of  calcined  soda. 

Properties. — Sodium  silicate  is  a transparent  glass-like  mass,  which  may  be  obtained 
in  crystals,  Na2Si03,  with  variable  amounts  of  water  of  crystallization.  On  exposure  the 
salt  becomes  superficially  opaque,  and  it  is  slowly  soluble  in  boiling  water ; but  the  alka- 
line solution  may  be  evaporated  to  a thick  syrupy  consistence  without  separating  a deposit 
on  cooling.  The  solution,  as  met  with  in  commerce,  usually  contains  about  10  to  12  per 
cent,  of  soda  (NaOH),#and  20  to  24  per  cent,  of  silica  (Si02),  and  is  a transparent  or 
semi-transparent  colorless  or  yellowish  viscid  liquid,  which  is  inodorous,  and  has  a saline 
and  sharp  alkaline  taste  and  an  alkaline  reaction  to  test-paper.  Its  specific  gravity  varies 
between  1.30  and  1.40.  On  acidulating  the  solution  with  hydrochloric  acid  the  mixture 
remains  transparent,  but  the  colorless  silicic  acid  forms  gradually  a dense  jelly.  If  the 
solution  be  previously  diluted  with  10  to  15  parts  of  water,  the  silicic  acid  liberated  by 
the  hydrochloric  acid  will  remain  dissolved  or  suspended  until  the  liquid  is  boiled  or 
evaporated.  Alcohol  added  to  the  solution  produces  a gelatinous  precipitate  of  sodium 
silicate.  A drop  of  the  liquid  held  in  a non-luminous  flame  by  means  of  a loop  of  plat- 
inum wire  burns  with  the  intense  yellow  color  of  sodium  compounds. 

Solution  of  sodium  silicate  should  be  preserved  in  glass  or  stone  vessels,  securely  stop- 
pered with  cork  or  caoutchouc  to  prevent  access  of  air  and  decomposition  by  carbon  diox- 
ide gas.  Stoppers  of  glass  or  stone  may  be  used,  but  should  be  well  coated  with  paraffin 
to  prevent  their  becoming  cemented  to  the  neck  of  the  vessel. 

Tests. — When  mixed  with  an  equal  bulk  of  alcohol  any  caustic  alkali  present  will 
remain  in  solution,  and  may  be  recognized  by  test-paper  or  estimated  by  volumetric  solu- 
tion of  oxalic  acid.  On  adding  excess  of  hydrochloric  acid  to  the  solution,  only  a mod- 
erate effervescence  should  take  place,  showing  that  it  has  not  been  injuriously  affected  by 
exposure  ; and  on  evaporating  the  acid  mixture  to  dryness  a residue  partly  soluble  in 
water  should  be  left,  which  is  not  colored  dark  by  hydrogen  sulphide.  Should  the  solu- 
tion of  sodium  silicate  be  strongly  alkaline,  it  may  be  boiled  with  gelatinous  silicic  acid, 
which  will  be  dissolved  by  the  free  alkali. 

Other  Silicates. — Potassium  silicate  is  obtained  by  fusing  a mixture  of  10  parts  of  potas- 
sium carbonate,  15  parts  of  fine  sand,  and  1 part  of  charcoal.  It  closely  resembles  sodium  sili- 
cate in  all  its  properties,  but  is  more  easily  fusible. 

Magnesium  Silicate.  This  is  found  native,  and  constitutes  several  well-known  minerals, 
such  as  soapstone  or  steatite , which  consists  of  magnesium  and  aluminum  silicate  ; talc , or  French 
chalk  (Talcum,  F.  G.),  also  called  steatite,  having  the  composition  4MgSi03.Si024II20 ; Meer- 
schaum, having  the  formula  2Mg0.3Si02 ; and  several  others.  These  minerals  are  insoluble, 
tasteless,  and  yield  a soft,  slippery  powder.  Asbestos  is  likewise  magnesium  silicate. 

Pulvis  salicylicus  cum  talco,  P.  G.  An  intimate  mixture  of  finely-powdered  salicylic  acid 
3 parts,  wheat  starch  10  parts,  and  talc  87  parts. 

Action  and  Uses. — Sodium  silicate  is  remarkable  for  its  power  of  arresting  the 
putrefaction  of  organic  matter.  This  salt  has  been  applied  to  correcting  the  odor  and 
preventing  the  consequences  of  putrefactive  fermentation.  But  Lowenhaupt  asserts 


LIQUOR  STRYCHNINE  HYDROCHLORATIS.-ZINCI  CHL0RID1.  987 

that  the  preparation  has  no  influence  upon  putrefaction  ( Therap.  Gaz .,  xiii.  466).  Its 
solutions  have  been  injected  into  the  vagina  in  certain  cases  of  leucorrhoea  and  uterine 
ulceration , into  the  urethra  in  gonorrhoea , into  the  bladder  in  chronic  cystitis , and  into  the 
nostrils  in  ozaena  ; but  for  all  these  purposes  it  is  inferior  to  other  stimulant  antiseptics 
and  astringents.  Solutions  containing  the  salt  in  the  proportion  of  % of  1 per  cent,  are 
employed.  It  has  been  applied  in  the  same  manner  as  collodion  to  the  treatment  of 
erysipelas  of  the  face  and  other  parts,  care  being  taken  that  the  preparation  is  neutral  in 
its  reaction.  It  has  also  been  used,  like  starch  and  other  substances  whose  solutions 
harden  in  drying,  to  prepare  the  so-called  immovable  bandages  used  in  treating  fractures 
and  other  surgical  injuries.  Potassium  silicate  has  been  employed  for  the  same  pur- 
pose, and  the  solutions  of  both  have  been  known  as  soluble  glass.  It  is  brushed  over 
the  part,  previously  covered  with  a dry  bandage,  and  then  bandages  saturated  with  the 
solution  are  rapidly  applied  in  as  many  layers  as  may  be  necessary.  The  part  should 
remain  at  rest  for  an  hour  to  two.  Owing  to  the  risk  of  strangulating  the  limb  by  the 
contraction  of  the  solution  in  drying,  it  has  been  advised  to  use  only  washed  bandages, 
and  also  to  apply  a thin  layer  of  carded  cotton  over  the  roller  that  lies  next  the  skin. 
The  bandage  may  be  easily  removed  with  scissors  when  it  has  been  softened  with  warm 
water. 

Sodium  fluosilicate  was  in  1887  proposed  by  Mr.  Thomson  ( Amer.  Jour.  Phar.,  lix. 
606)  as  an  antiseptic  and  deodorizer  which  was  not  poisonous  and  had  no  smell.  The 
experiments  of  Mr.  Robson,  however,  showed  {Brit.  Med.  Jour .,  May  19,  1888)  that 
the  undiluted  preparation  is  an  irritant,  and  may  act  as  a caustic  upon  raw  tissues,  and 
that  a solution  of  1 grain  to  the  ounce,  although  antiseptic  without  being  irritant, 
corrodes  steel  instruments.  In  1888,  Dr.  Berens  ( Therap . Gaz.,  xii.  443)  performed 
with  it  a number  of  experiments,  and  found  it  superior  to  corrosive  sublimate  as  a 
deodorizer  and  an  antiseptic.  He  took  three  times  a day  for  a week  doses  of  ten  grains 
without  noticeable  effect,  and  found  that  as  an  obstetrical  and  surgical  deodorizer  and 
antiseptic,  and  in  various  catarrhal  affections  of  the  eye,  ear,  throat,  nose,  larynx, 
vagina,  urethra,  etc.,  it  acted  promptly  and  efficiently  when  applied  in  solutions  of 
1-2  : 1000.  The  germicide  powers  of  this  compound  have  been  questioned  by  Foote, 
who  found  it  inferior  to  bichloride  of  mercury,  carbolic  acid,  thymol,  creolin,  and 
hydronaphtol  (. Amer . Jour,  of  Med.  Sci.,  xcviii.  243);  the  latter  judgment  is  confirmed 
by  the  observations  of  Bokenham  (Brit.  Med.  Jour.,  1890,  i.  356). 

Talc  in  powder  has  been  used  by  Debove  to  counteract  chronic  diarrhoea , especially 
when  of  tuberculous  origin.  It  was  given  in  enormous  doses  diffused  in  milk  (Therap. 
Gaz.,  xii.  489).  As  it  is  insoluble  and  can  only  act  mechanically  and  in  mass,  the  incon- 
veniences and  probable  dangers  of  such  a treatment  are  palpable. 

LIQUOR  STRYCHNINE  HYDROCHLORATIS,  ^.—Solution  of 

Strychnine  Hydrochlorate. 

Liquor  strychninse. — Solute  de  strychnine , Fr.  ; Strychninlosung , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Strychnine  in  crystals  9 grains  ; Diluted  Hydrochloric  Acid 
14  minims  ; Rectified  Spirit  \ fluidounce  ; Distilled  Water  1£  fluidounces.  Mix  the 
hydrochloric  acid  with  4 drachms  of  the  water,  and  dissolve  the  strychnine  in  the  mix- 
ture bv  the  aid  of  heat.  Then  add  the  spirit  and  the  remainder  of  the  water. — Br. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  solution,  being  stable,  is  convenient  for  medical  prescrip- 
tion. The  dose  is  from  5 to  10  minims,  i.  e.  from  Gm.  0.002—0.005  =■%-%  to  grain  of 
strychnine  hydrochlorate. 

LIQUOR  ZINCI  CHLORIDI,  U.  S,9  Ui\ — Solution  of  Zinc  Chloride. 

Chlorure  de  zinc  liquide,  Solution  de  Burnett,  Fr. ; C hlorzinh-Losung,  Fliissiges  Chlor- 

zink , G. 

An  aqueous  solution  of  zinc  chloride,  ZnCl2 — containing  about  50  per  cent,  by  weight 
of  the  salt. 

Preparation. — Zinc,  granulated,  240  Gm.  ; Hydrochloric  Acid,  840  Gm. ; Nitric 
Acid,  12  Gm.  ; Precipitated  Zinc  Carbonate,  12  Gm. ; Distilled  Water,  a sufficient  quan- 
tity. To  the  zinc,  contained  in  a glass  or  porcelain  vessel,  add  150  Cc.  of  distilled  water ; 
then  gradually  add  the  hydrochloric  acid,  and  digest,  until  the  acid  is  saturated.  Pour 
off  the  solution,  add  the  nitric  acid,  evaporate  the  solution  to  dryness,  and  heat  the  dry 
mass  to  fusion  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  115°  C.  (239°  F.).  Let  it  cool,  and  dis- 


988 


LITHII  BENZOAS. 


solve  it  in  a sufficient  amount  of  distilled  water  to  make  the  product  weigh  1000  Gm. 
Then  add  the  precipitated  zinc  carbonate,  agitate  the  mixture  occasionally  during  twenty- 
four  hours,  and  then  set  it  aside  until  it  has  become  clear  by  subsidence.  Finally,  sep- 
arate the  clear  solution  by  decantation  or  by  means  of  a siphon. — V.  S. 

The  above  formula  will  yield  about  22  fluidounces  of  solution. 

Take  of  granulated  zinc  1 pound  ; hydrochloric  acid  44  fluidounces  ; solution  of  chlo- 
rine a sufficiency;  zinc  carbonate  i ounce  or  a sufficiency;  distilled  water  1 pint.  Mix 
the  hydrochloric  acid  and  water  in  a porcelain  dish,  add  the  zinc,  and  apply  a gentle  heat 
to  promote  the  action  until  gas  is  no  longer  evolved.  Boil  for  half  an  hour,  supplying 
the  water  lost  by  evaporation,  and  allow  the  product  to  cool.  Filter  it  into  a bottle,  and 
add  solution  of  chlorine  by  degrees,  with  frequent  agitation,  until  the  fluid  acquires  a 
permanent  odor  of  chlorine.  Add  the  zinc  carbonate  in  small  quantities  at  a time  and 
with  renewed  agitation  until  a brown  sediment  appears.  Filter  the  liquid  into  a porcelain 
basin,  and  evaporate  until  it  is  reduced  to  the  bulk  of  2 pints. — Br. 

Zinc  dissolves  in  hydrochloric  acid  with  the  evolution  of  hydrogen  gas,  Zn2+4HC1 
yields  2ZnCl2  + 2H,.  The  iron  contained  in  the  solution  is  first  oxidized  in  the  one  case 
by  nitric  acid,  and  in  the  other  by  chlorine  gas.  To  avoid  contamination  with  nitrate,  the 
former  solution  is  evaporated  to  dryness,  redissolved  in  water,  and  then  treated  with  zine 
carbonate,  whereby  ferric  oxide  is  precipitated.  The  process  of  the  British  Pharmacopoeia 
arrives  at  the  same  result  in  a similar  manner,  except  that  an  evaporation  of  the  liquid 
to  dryness  is  not  necessary.  1 pound  of  zinc  yields  about  33J  ounces  of  zinc  chloride, 
which  are  contained  in  40  (Imperial)  fluidounces  of  the  solution.  The  spec.  grav.  is 
stated  to  be  1.535  U.  S.,  1.460  Br. 

Properties. — The  solution  is  a colorless  and  inodorous  liquid  which  has  the  disagree- 
able metallic  taste  of  zinc  salts,  and  an  acid  reaction,  and  is  miscible  with  alcohol  and 
water  without  producing  a precipitate.  Its  reactions  and  tests  are  those  of  Zinci  chlo- 
ridum  which  see. 

The  French  Codex  directs  1 part  of  fused  zinc  chloride  to  be  dissolved  in  2 parts  of 
water,  the  solution  to  be  of  specific  gravity  1.33.  Sir  William  Burnett’s  liquid  contained 
200  grains  of  zinc  in  the  Imperial  fluidounce,  and  was  stated  to  have  the  specific  gravity 
2.0  and  to  contain  about  50  per  cent,  of  ZnCl2. 

Action  and  Uses. — Rohe  states  that  zinc  chloride,  in  the  proportion  of  5 per  cent., 
added  to  the  material  to  be  disinfected,  can  be  relied  upon  for  the  destruction  of  micro- 
organisms in  the  absence  of  spores.  To  destroy  the  vitality  of  anthrax  spores  a 20  per 
cent,  solution  is  necessary  {Med.  News,  xlvii.  346).  Under  the  name  of  Burners  disin- 
fecting fluid  a solution  of  chloride  of  zinc  was  extensively  employed,  and  its  utility 
probably  suggested  an  officinal  preparation  for  similar  purposes.  That  liquid  has  in 
numerous  cases  produced  fatal  mischief  by  being  taken  internally,  occasioning  all  the 
phenomena  due  to  a violent  irritant  poison.  The  chief  application  of  this  solution  is  to 
deodorize  and  disinfect  sinks,  sewers,  water-closets,  dissecting-rooms,  hospitals,  etc. 
It  has  been  made  use  of  to  preserve  dead  bodies  by  injecting  it  into  the  blood-vessels, 
but  owing  to  its  corrosive  action  upon  steel  such  bodies  are  not  suitable  for  dissection. 
Largely  diluted,  Gm.  0.60—1.30  in  Gm.  120  (gtt.  x to  gtt.  xx  in  water  f^iv),  it  has  been 
used  as  an  injection  for  gonorrhoea  in  both  sexes  and  for  leucorrhoea  ; also  as  a collyrium 
in  gonorrhoeal  and  in  diphtheritic  ophthalmia.  It  should  be  employed,  if  at  all,  with 
extreme  caution,  the  weakest  solution  being  first  applied  to  test  the  susceptibility  of  the 
parts.  (For  the  use  of  zinc  compounds  as  caustics  see  Zinci  Chloridum). 

LITHII  BENZOAS,  77.  S. — Lithium  Benzoate. 

Lithium  henzoicum , Benzoas  lithicus. — Benzoate  de  lithine,  Fr. ; Lithiumbenzoat , Benzoe- 
saures  Lit  hi  on,  G. 

Formula,  LiC7H502.  Molecular  weight  127.72. 

Preparation. — This  salt  is  made  by  decomposing  lithium  carbonate  with  benzoic 
acid,  and  according  to  Shuttleworth  (1875),  it  is  most  advantageous  to  add  the  acid  to 
the  carbonate.  100  grains  of  the  latter  are  heated  with  900  grains*  (2  fluidounces)  of  dis- 
tilled water,  when  330  grains  of  benzoic  acid  or  a sufficient  quantity  of  it  is  added  in 
small  portions  until  effervescence  is  no  longer  produced.  The  filtrate  is  evaporated  to 
dryness  with  constant  stirring,  and  the  salt  rubbed  to  powder,  or  the  hot  somewhat  con- 
centrated solution  may  be  set  aside  to  crystallize  on  spontaneous  evaporation.  The  yield 
will  be  346  grains. 

Properties. — Lithium  benzoate  is  a white  salt,  forming  either  a light  crystalline 


LITHI1  BR0M1DUM. 


989 


powder  or  small  glistening  pearly  scales,  which  feel  greasy  to  the  touch  and  are  some- 
times aggregated  to  moss-like  forms.  Berzelius  stated  the  salt  to  be  hygroscopic,  but 
Shuttleworth,  and  afterward  Raskowsky  (1886),  showed  it  to  be  permanent  in  the  air. 
It  has  a slight  odor,  like  that  of  medicinal  benzoic  acid,  or  if  free  from  aromatic  com- 
pounds is  inodorous ; its  taste  is  alkaline,  somewhat  cooling  and  sweetish  ; its  reaction  to 
test-paper  is  slightly  acid.  It  dissolves  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  in  4 parts  ( TJ.  $.),  3 \ parts 
(Shuttleworth),  3 parts  (Raskowsky),  of  water,  and  in  12  parts  ( U . S .),  10  parts  (Shut- 
tleworth), of  alcohol,  and  at  the  boiling  temperature  in  2.5  parts  ( U.  S .),  2 parts  (Ras- 
kowsky), of  water,  and  in  10  parts  of  alcohol  (£/".  S .).  When  heated  the  salt  melts, 
and  at  a higher  temperature  chars  and  emits  aromatic  inflammable  vapors  of  benzene 
and  other  decomposition-products  of  benzoic  acid,  a portion  of  the  latter  subliming  unal- 
tered ; the  black  residue  left  behind  contains  charcoal  and  lithium  carbonate.  The 
aqueous  solution  of  the  salt  is  decomposed  by  mineral  acids,  but  not  by  carbon  dioxide, 
and  yields  with  ferric  chloride  a flesli-colored  precipitate  soluble  in  hydrochloric  acid  and 
in  alcohol. 

Tests. — “ If  1 Cc.  of  diluted  nitric  acid  be  added  to  0.2  Gm.  of  lithium  benzoate,  dis- 
solved in  2 Cc.  of  water,  and  the  precipitated  benzoic  acid  removed  by  filtration,  the  clear 
filtrate  should  not  be  rendered  turbid  on  addition  of  silver  nitrate  test-solution  (absence 
of  chloride),  or  of  barium  nitrate  test-solution  (absence  of  sulphate).  If  a concentrated 
solution  of  the  salt  be  mixed  with  hydrochloric  acid,  a white  precipitate  of  benzoic  acid 
will  be  formed,  which,  after  being  separated  from  the  liquid  and  thoroughly  washed  and 
■dried,  should  conform  to  the  tests  of  purity  given  under  Acidum  Benzoicum.  If  the  filtrate 
from  this  precipitate  be  evaporated  to  dryness  and  ignited,  1 part  of  the  residue  should 
be  soluble  in  5 parts  of  absolute  alcohol.  If  to  this  solution  an  equal  volume  of  ether  be 
added,  no  precipitate  or  turbidity  should  appear  (limit  of  other  alkalies).  The  aqueous 
solution  (1  in  20)  should  remain  unaffected  by  hydrogen  sulphide  test-solution  or  ammo- 
nium sulphide  test-solution  (absence  of  arsenic,  lead,  iron,  aluminum,  etc.),  or  by  ammo- 
nium oxalate  test-solution  (absence  of  calcium),  or  by  sodium-cobaltic  nitrite  test-solution 
(limit  of  potassium)  ; nor  should  silver  nitrate  test-solution  or  barium  nitrate  test-solu- 
tion produce  in  it  more  than  a very  slight  turbidity  (limit  of  chloride  and  sulphate). 
If  1 Gm.  of  dry  lithium  benzoate  be  thoroughly  ignited  in  a porcelain  crucible,  so  as  to 
destroy  most  of  the  carbonaceous  matter,  and  the  residue  be  mixed  with  20  Cc.  of  water, 
it  should  require,  for  complete  neutralization,  not  less  than  7.8  Cc.  of  normal  sulphuric 
acid  (corresponding  to  not  less  than  99.6  per  cent,  of  the  pure  salt),  methyl-orange  being 
used  as  indicator.” — IT.  S. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  medicinal  effects  of  this  compound  rest  upon  theoretical 
expectation  rather  than  clinical  observation,  in  so  far  as  they  depend  upon  the  lithia  it 
contains.  In  1874,  Dalkiewicz  and  Mallez  ( Practitioner , xiii.  274)  reminded  the  profes- 
sion of  the  well-known  doctrine  that  benzoic  acid  is  converted  into  hippuric  acid  in  the 
system,  forming  soluble  salts,  whereas  the  urates  of  the  same  bases  are  more  or  less 
insoluble.  Undoubtedly,  this  view  explained  the  efficacy  of  benzoic  acid  and  of  the 
sodium  benzoate  in  various  calculous  disorders.  Lithium  was  then  substituted  for  sodium 
in  the  compound  on  account  of  its  greater  solubility.  There  is  not,  however,  a shadow 
of  proof  that  this  substitution  is  advantageous,  or  that  the  merits  of  the  medicine,  what- 
ever they  may  be,  are  not  due  to  the  benzoic  acid  it  contains.  So  far  as  laboratory  ex- 
periments may  have  weight  in  such  a question,  it  should  be  stated  that  the  solvent  power 
of  lithium  benzoate  has  been  found  far  inferior  to  that  of  magnesium  borocitrate  upon 
uric-acid  calculi  (Madsen,  Bull,  de  Therap .,  xcviii.  68). 

LITHII  BROMIDUM,  IT.  S. — Lithium  Bromide. 

Lithium  bromatum,  Bromuretum  lithicum. — Bromure  de  lithium , Fr. ; Bromlithium , 
Lithiumbromid , G. 

Formula  LiBr.  Molecular  weight  86.77. 

Lithium  bromide  should  be  kept  in  well-stoppered  bottles. 

Preparation. — Yvon  (1875)  prepared  the  salt  by  dissolving  lithium  carbonate  in 
hydrobromic  acid  and  evaporating  ; or,  37  Gm.  of  the  carbonate  are  converted  into  neu- 
tral sulphate,  dissolved  in  a small  portion  of  water,  and  mixed  with  a concentrated  aque- 
ous solution  of  119  Gm.  of  potassium  bromide;  the  mixture  is  well  stirred,  the  liquid 
separated  by  filtration,  evaporated  to  dryness,  and  treated  with  alcohol,  which  leaves 
potassium  sulphate  undissolved  ; the  alcoholic  solution  is  evaporated  to  dryness.  A con- 
venient method  for  preparing  the  salt  consists  in  forming,  first,  ferrous  bromide  by  gradu- 


990 


LITHII  BROMIDUM. 


ally  adding  399  grains  of  bromine  to  300  grains  of  iron  and  900  grains  (2  fluidounces)  of 
water ; the  green  solution  is  filtered,  heated,  and  in  a flask  agitated  with  186  grains  of 
lithium  carbonate  ; when  cool  the  liquid  is  filtered  and  evaporated,  yielding  434  grains 
of  lithium  bromide.  Lithium  bromide  may  be  obtained  in  crystals  by  evaporating  its 
syrupy  solution  over  sulphuric  acid.  The  anhydrous  salt  contains  nearly  92  per  cent,  of 
bromine. 

Properties. — Lithium  bromide  is  a very  deliquescent  salt,  and  on  this  account  not 
readily  obtainable  in  crystals,  but  usually  kept  in  the  form  of  a white  powder  more  or  less 
granular.  It  is  inodorous,  and  has  a somewhat  pungent  (sharp,  U.  S.)  and  bitterish 
taste  and  a neutral  reaction.  It  imparts  a crimson  color  to  flame,  melts  at  a dull  red 
heat,  and  at  a white  heat  is  slowly  volatilized.  It  is  freely  soluble  in  alcohol,  also  in 
ether,  and  dissolves  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  in  0.6  part  and  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  in  0.3  part 
of  water  ( U.  $.).  The  concentrated,  but  not  the  largely  diluted,  aqueous  solution  yields 
a white  precipitate  with  ammonium  carbonate.  On  the  addition  of  a few  drops  of  chlo- 
rine-water bromine  is  liberated,  which  dissolves  in  carbon  disulphide  with  a brown-yellow 
or  yellowish-brown  color  without  a violet  tint  (absence  of  and  difference  from  iodide). 

Tests. — “ 1 part  of  the  salt  should  be  completely  soluble  in  5 parts  of  absolute  alco- 
cohol,  and  the  addition  of  an  equal  volume  of  stronger  ether  to  the  alcoholic  solution 
should  produce  no  precipitate  (limit  of  other  alkalies).  If  0.5  Cc.  of  sodium-cobaltie 
nitrite  test-solution  be  added  to  5 Cc.  of  the  aqueous  solution,  no  precipitate  or  turbidity 
should  occur  within  ten  minutes  (limit  of  potassium).  The  aqueous  solution  (1  in  20) 
should  not  be  affected  by  hydrogen  sulphide  test-solution,  either  before  or  after  acidu- 
lation  with  a drop  of  hydrochloric  acid  (absence  of  arsenic,  lead,  copper,  etc.),  nor  by 
ammonium  sulphide  test-solution  (absence  of  iron,  aluminum,  etc.)  In  the  aqueous 
solution  no  turbidity  should  be  produced  by  the  addition  of  barium  chloride  test-solution 
(absence  of  sulphate).  If  a few  drops  of  starch  test-  solution  be  added  to  5 Cc.  of  the 
aqueous  solution,  and  then  a drop  or  two  of  chlorine  water,  no  blue  color  should  appear 
(absence  of  iodide).  If  0.3  Gm.  of  dry  lithium  bromide  be  dissolved  in  10  Cc.  of  water 
and  2 drops  of  potassium  chromate  test-solution  be  added,  it  should  require  35.3  Cc.  of 
decinormal  silver  nitrate  solution  to  produce  a permanent  red  color  of  silver  chromate 
(corresponding  to  at  least  98  per  cent,  of  the  pure  salt).” — U.  S. 

Allied  Salts. — Lithii  iodidum,  Lithium  iodide,  Lil ; mol.  weight  133.54.  It  is  obtained  by 
dissolving  lithium  carbonate  in  hydriodic  acid  or  by  digesting  a solution  of  calcium  iodide  or 
ferrous  iodide  with  lithium  carbonate  in  slight  excess,  filtering,  and  evaporating  to  dryness.  It 
is  a white  crystalline  salt,  crystallizing  with  3H20  in  deliquescent  prisms,  and  on  exposure 
acquires  a yellow  tint  from  liberated  iodine.  1 Gm.  of  the  dry  salt  requires  for  complete  precip- 
itation 1.27  Gm.  of  silver  nitrate. 

Lithii  chloridum,  Lithium  chloride,  LiCl ; mol.  weight  42.38.  The  process  for  preparing 
it  from  lepidolite  is  given  below.  It  crystallizes  in  anhydrous  cubes  or  octahedrons  having  a 
saline  taste  and  melting  at  a red  heat,  and  is  freely  soluble  in  alcohol  and  in  spirit  of  ether. 
Exposed  to  the  atmosphere,  it  forms  prisms  or  needies  containing  2H20,  and  then  deliquesces ; 
at  0°  C.  (32°  F.)  it  requires  1.6  parts,  at  20°  C.  (68°  F.)  1.24  parts,  and  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  0. i7 
part,  of  water  for  solution.  1 Gm.  of  the  dry  salt  requires  4 Gm.  of  silver  nitrate  for  complete 
precipitation. 

Action  and  Uses. — In  1870,  Dr.  S.  Weir  Mitchell  accidentally  found  that  lithium 
bromide  seemed  to  cause  a more  rapid  and  intense  sleepiness  than  the  other  bromides. 
He  observed,  moreover,  that  it  was  the  most  soluble  salt  of  its  class,  that  it  contained  a 
larger  proportion  of  bromine  than  any  other,  and  that,  clinically,  it  excels  them  all  as  a 
hypnotic,  and  is  efficient  in  smaller  doses  than  the  potassium  bromide  as  an  anti-epileptic. 
In  1877  he  declared  of  this  salt  that  it  stood  the  test  of  his  own  experience,  as  well  as 
that  of  many  French  and  German  therapeutists,  who  had  come  to  regard  it  as  the  most 
valuable  of  the  bromides.  According  to  Levy,  its  action,  compared  with  that  of  potassium 
bromide,  is  as  follows : It  acts  with  greater  force  and  rapidity  upon  the  spinal  cord  and 
nerves ; the  anaesthesia  it  produces  begins  in  the  nerves  and  is  propagated  to  the  cord  ; 
in  other  words,  it  is  a sedative  of  morbid  excitement  in  the  spinal  cord.  It  does  not 
appear  to  act  upon  the  heart. 

Lithium  bromide  was  used  in  the  treatment  of  epilepsy , as  already  stated,  ana  appa- 
rently with  very  remarkable  advantages,  but  its  efficiency  was  differently  estimated  b} 
some*  other  physicians,  of  whom  Echeverria  regarded  it  as  inferior  to  the  potassium  bro- 
mide and  See  prescribed  it  without  any  favorable  results.  The  dose  has  been  variously 
stated  at  Gm.  0.30-0.60  (gr.  v-x)  and  Gm.  0.60-1.30  (gr.  x-xx)  three  times  a day  in  a 
simple  bitter  infusion.  But  much  larger  doses  may  be  prescribed.  It  has  also  been  used 
in  gout  with  no  demonstrable  advantage. 


LITHII  CARBON  AS. 


991 


This  preparation  has  been  proposed  and  used  by  Martineau  ( Lancet , Mar.  26,  1887)  as 
a remedy  for  diabetes , in  conjunction  with  arsenic,  and  was  tried  by  the  late  Dr.  Austin 
Flint  without  any  marked  effects  upon  the  disease  ( Med . News , li.  29). 

LITHII  CARBONAS,  U.  S.,  Br. — Lithium  Carbonate. 

Lithise  carbonas  ; Lithium  carbcmicum , P.  G.  ; Carbonas  lithicus. — Carbonate  of  lithia7 
E. ; Carbonate  de  lithine , Carbonate  lithique , F.  ; Lithicumcarbonat , Kohlensaures  Lithion , G. 

Formula  Li2C03.  Molecular  weight  73.87. 

Origin  and  Preparation. — Lithium  was  discovered  by  Arfvedson  (1817)  in  peta- 
lite  and  other  Swedish  minerals,  and  by  Berzelius  (1822)  in  the  mineral  waters  of  Carls- 
bad, Marienbad,  and  Franzensbrunn.  It  is  met  with  as  phosphate  in  montebrasite  and 
several  other  minerals,  and  as  fluoride  or  silicate  in  lepidolite , spodumene , and  others.  It 
is  found  in  minute  quantities  in  the  ashes  of  some  plants  and  in  many  minerals  springs, 
often  as  carbonate  ; the  waters  of  the  Mur  spring  at  Baden-Baden  and  of  a hot  spring  at 
Wheel-Clifford  in  Cornwall  are  the  richest  known,  the  latter,  according  to  W.  A.  Miller 
(1864),  containing  26.05  grains  LiCl  in  the  Imperial  gallon.  To  prepare  the  carbonate, 
lepidolite  is  heated  with  sulphuric  acid;  the  aqueous  solution,  containing  impure  lithium 
sulphate,  may  be  freed  from  most  of  the  sulphates  of  aluminum  and  the  alkalies  by  crys- 
tallizing them  as  alum,  or  it  is  treated  with  lime  to  separate  metallic  oxides  and 
earths,  and  then  precipitated  by  barium  chloride  to  remove  sulphate,  and  by  ammonium 
oxalate  to  remove  calcium.  After  evaporating  to  dryness,  lithium  chloride  is  dissolved  by 
a mixture  of  alcohol  and  ether,  and  thus  freed  from  the  chlorides  of  rubidum,  caesium, 
sodium,  and  potassium,  with  which  metals  it  is  associated  in  the  lepidolite.  The  con- 
centrated aqueous  solution  of  lithium  chloride,  treated  with  ammonium  carbonate,  yields 
a precipitate  of  lithium  carbonate,  which  is  washed  with  alcohol ; the  filtrate  from  the 
precipitate  on  being  evaporated  to  dryness  and  ignited  yields  as  chloride  the  lithium  which 
had  remained  in  solution. 

Properties. — Lithium  carbonate  is  a light  white  amorphous  powder  or  is  in  minute 
crystalline  grains.  It  has  the  specific  gravity  2.11,  is  permanent  in  the  air,  inodorous, 
has  a mild  alkaline  taste  and  a distinct  alkaline  reaction,  and  imparts  a carmine  color  to 
flame.  It  is  insoluble  in  alcohol,  but  soluble  in  140  parts  of  boiling  water  and  in  80  parts 
at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  ; much  more  soluble  in  water  saturated  with  carbon  dioxide  ( U.  S.,  P. 
£.),  150  parts  of  cold  water  (J9r.).  The  solution  has  an  alkaline  reaction,  precipitates 
the  salts  of  the  heavy  metals,  and  on  boiling  decomposes  ammonium  salts.  On  heat- 
ing the  salt  to  dull  redness  it  melts  to  a transparent  liquid,  loses  a portion  of  its  carbon - 
dioxide,  and  congeals  on  cooling  to  pearly  oxycarbonate,  which  is  permanent  in  the  air ; 
the  fused  salt  corrodes  glass,  silver,  and  platinum.  It  dissolves  with  effervescence  in 
dilute  hydrochloric  acid,  and  the  solution,  evaporated  to  dryness,  leaves  a residue  of 
lithium  chloride,  which  is  soluble  in  spirit  of  ether,  and  the  neutral  solution  of  which 
yields  a white  precipitate  with  sodium  phosphate. 

Tests. — *£  If  1 Gm.  of  lithium  carbonate  be  dissolved  in  40  Cc.  of  diluted  acetic  acid, 
no  insoluble  residue  should  remain.  Portions  of  this  solution  should  not  be  rendered 
turbid  by  hydrogen  sulphide  test-solution  (absence  of  arsenic,  lead,  etc.)  ; nor  by  ammonium 
sulphide  test-solution  (absence  of  iron,  aluminum,  etc.)  ; nor  by  ammonium  oxalate  test-solu- 
tion (absence  of  calcium)  ; nor  by  silver  nitrate  test-solution  (absence  of  chloride)  nor  by 
barium  chloride  test-solution  (absence  of  sulphate)  ; nor  by  sodium-cobaltic  nitrite  test- 
solution  (limit  of  potassium).  If  0.5  Gm.  of  lithium  carbonate  be  dissolved  in  2 Cc.  of 
hydrochloric  acid,  and  the  clear  solution  evaporated  to  dryness,  the  residue  should  com- 
pletely dissolve  in  3 Cc.  of  absolute  alcohol,  and  an  addition  of  3 Cc.  of  ether  should  not 
render  the  solution  turbid  (limit  of  other  alkalies).  If  0.5  Gm.  of  the  dry  salt  be  mixed 
with  20  Cc.  of  water,  it  should  require,  for  complete  neutralization,  not  less  than  13.4 
Cc.  of  normal  sulphuric  acid  solution  (corresponding  to  at  least  98.98  per  cent,  of  the  pure 
salt),  methyl-orange  being  used  as  indicator.” — U.  S. 

Chemical  Action. — When  a calculus  composed  of  uric  acid  and  oxalate  of  lime  is 
suspended  in  a warm  solution  of  lithium  carbonate,  it  loses  sensibly  in  weight ; and 
when  a portion  of  bone  infiltrated  with  gouty  concretions  is  placed  in  a solution  of  the 
salt,  after  two  or  three  days  the  whole  of  the  deposit  disappears.  In  fact,  the  urate  of 
lithium  is  the  most  soluble  salt  formed  with  uric  acid.  Garrod  (TYraes  and  Gaz .,  June, 
1883,  p.  691)  and  Jahns  (Amer.  Jour,  of  Med.  Sci.,  Jan.  1884,  p.  262)  show  that,  in 
laboratory  experiments  at  least,  lithium  carbonate  is  a much  better  solvent  of  uric  acid 
concretions  than  sodium  or  magnesium  salts.  These  facts  have  been  adduced  to  explain 


992 


LITHII  CITRAS. 


the  efficacy  in  chronic  gout  of*  numerous  mineral  springs  in  Europe  and  of  the  Gettys-  i 
burg  Spring  in  Pennsylvania. 

Action  and  Uses. — Opinions  are  by  no  means  uniform  in  regard  to  the  value  of 
lithium  carbonate  in  removing  uric  acid  deposits  and  gouty  concretions.  On  the  one 
hand,  it  is  asserted  that  when  patients  are  voiding  uric  acid  gravel  it  causes  the  deposit  I 
to  diminish  or  to  cease  altogether,  and  that  in  gout  it  often  diminishes  the  frequency  of 
the  attacks.  At  the  same  time  it  is  stated  to  be  powerfully  diuretic.  On  the  other 
hand,  some  authorities  confidently  affirm  that  they  have  seen  no  benefit  arise  from  its 
use.  Others,  again,  declare  that  it  is  suitable  only  for  the  treatment  of  chronic  gout, 
that  the  daily  dose  of  it  should  be  small,  and  that  its  good  effects  become  apparent  only 
after  several  weeks’  use.  On  the  whole,  there  appears  to  be  no  substantial  ground  for  a 
belief  in  its  alleged  virtues  in  gout  and  calculous  diseases.  Of  late  years  sundry  min- 
eral waters  have  been  vaunted  as  efficacious  in  these  affections  because  they  contained 
from  ToSo  o Srain  to  1 grain  in  a Pint  of  sPrinS  water-  Such  pretentions  tend  to  bring  j 
the  art  of  therapeutics  into  discredit.  When  the  physicians  who  have  professed  faith  in 
natural  mineral  waters  because  they  contained  so  minute  a proportion  of  lithium, have 
compared  their  curative  effects  with  those  of  non-mineralized  spring  waters,  they  will 
perhaps  be  disposed  to  attribute  their  therapeutic  results  rather  to  the  diuretic  and 
detergent  action  of  the  waters  than  to  the  lithium  salt  they  held  in  solution. 

Lithium  carbonate  is  said  to  exhibit  extraordinary  powers  in  the  solution  of  false 
membrane. 

This  medicine  may  be  given  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.06-0.20  (gr.  i-iij)  three  times  a day, 
dissolved  in  3 or  4 ounces  of  hot  water  or  preferably  in  carbonated  water.  Externally, 
it  has  been  applied  in  an  ointment  or  glycerite  containing  1 part  of  the  salt  to  8 of  the 
excipient. 

Poulet  (1885),  having  convinced  himself  that  hippuric  acid  is  the  real  gastric  juice, 
readily  found  that  the  hippurates  of  lime  and  of  lithia  are  specifics  for  all  digestive  dis- 
orders and  gouty  affections,  and  their  dependencies,  including  the  so-called  rheumatic  gout. 
He  published  the  following  formula : R Lithium  carbonate,  8 parts  ; hippuric  acid,  35  ! 
parts;  tepid  water,  1000  parts;  sugar,  1200  parts.  Add  the  acid  to  the  carbonate  dis- 
solved in  a small  part  of  the  water,  producing  an  alkaline  solution,  from  which  prepare  a 
syrup.  Each  dose  should  contain  about  5 grains  of  the  salt  (Bull,  de  Therap .,  cix.  153 ; . 
273). 

LITHII  CITRAS,  U.  S.,  Br.— Lithium  Citrate. 

Lithise  citras , Lithium  citricum. — Citrate  of  lithia , E. ; Citrate  de  lithine , Fr. ; Lithium - 
citrat , Citronsaures  Lithion , G. 

Formula  Li3C6H507-  Molecular  weight  209.57. 

Lithium  citrate  should  be  kept  in  well-stoppered  bottles.  i 

Preparation.— Take  of  Lithium  Carbonate  50  grains;  Citric  Acid,  in  crystals,  90 
grains ; warm  Distilled  Water  1 fluidounce.  Dissolve  the  citric  acid  in  the  water,  anu  1 
add  the  lithium  carbonate  in  successive  portions,  applying  heat  until  effervescence  ceases  | 
and  a perfect  solution  is  obtained.  Evaporate  by  steam-  or  sand-bath  until  the  product 
has  a specific  gravity  of  about  1.230,  and  set  aside  for  crystals  to  form.  Dry  the  crys- 
tals and  preserve  them  in  a stoppered  bottle.— -Sr.  Thus  prepared  the  salt  is  crystal- 
line, contains  4H20,  and  has  the  molecular  weight  281.41.  ... 

On  adding  lithium  carbonate  to  a solution  of  citric  acid,  carbon  dioxide  is  given  oil 
and  lithium  citrate  remains  in  solution,  the  reaction  being  explained  by  the  equation : 
3Li2C03  + 2H3C6H507  yields  2Li3C6H507  + 3C02  -f  3H20.  The  yield  is  equal  to  the 
weight  of  citric  acid  used.  The  U.  S.  P.  1870  directed  a slight  excess  of  citric  acic, 
while  the  above  formula  orders  a slight  excess  of  lithium  carbonate,  for  50  grains  of  the 
latter  require  90.46  grains  of  the  acid.  For  dispensing  in  solution  the  salt  may  well 
be  prepared  extemporaneously,  the  proportion  of  citric  acid  to  lithium  carbonate  being 
1000  : 528.6  (or  10  : 5.3),  with  a yield  of  1000  (or  10)  parts  ; on  triturating  in  a mortar 
with  a small  quantity  of  hot  water  the  decomposition  is  readily  effected.  Hager  reconi-  j 
mends  precipitation  of  the  concentrated  slightly  acid  solution  with  alcohol,  when  the  j 
normal  salt,  containing  two  molecules  or  14.63  per  cent,  of  water,  is  precipitated. 

Properties  and  Tests. — Lithium  citrate  is  a white  amorphous  powder  which  dis- 
solves in  2.5  parts  of  water  and  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  in  0.5  parts  of  boiling  water 
(U.  S.),  and  may  be  obtained  crystallized  from  a concentrated  solution  on  standing. 
According  to  C.  Umney  (1876),  this  salt  contains  4H20,  three  of  which  are  gi\en  o 


LITHI1  CITE  AS  EFFER  VESCENS. 


993 


at  100°  C.  and  the  fourth  molecule  at  115°  C. ; the  crystallized  as  well  as  the  anhydrous 
salt  is  fairly  permanent  in  the  air,  and  not  deliquescent,  as  stated  by  the  Pharmacopoeia. 
The  salt  has  a neutral  reaction  to  test-paper,  is  inodorous,  has  a saline  somewhat  cooling 
taste,  is  soluble  in  glycerin,  and  insoluble  or  nearly  so  in  alcohol.  When  heated  it 
blackens,  gives  off  the  odor  of  burning  citric  acid,  inflammable  gases  are  evolved,  and 
finally  a white  residue  is  left,  which,  if  neutralized  with  hydrochloric  acid,  is  soluble  in 
alcohol,  and  the  solution,  ignited,  burns  with  a carmine  color.  The  salt  is  recognized  as 
a citrate  by  mixing  its  aqueous  solution  with  calcium  chloride,  filtering  if  necessary, 
and  heating  the  clear  liquid,  when  a precipitate  of  calcium  citrate  will  be  deposited. 

The  aqueous  solution,  slightly  acidulated  with  acetic  acid,  should  not  be  rendered  turbid 
by  hydrogen  sulphide  test-solution  (absence  of  arsenic,  lead,  etc.)  ; nor  by  ammonium 
sulphide  test-solution  (absence  of  iron,  aluminum,  etc.);  nor  by  ammonium  oxalate  test- 
solution  (absence  of  calcium)  ; nor  by  sodium-cobaltic  nitrite  test-solution  (limit  of  potas- 
sium). With  barium  nitrate  test-solution,  or  with  silver  nitrate  test-solution,  not  more 
than  a slight  turbidity  should  appear  (limit  of  sulphate  and  of  chloride).  If  the  residue 
obtained  after  calcining  the  salt  at  a red  heat  be  dissolved  in  a slight  excess  of  diluted 
hydrochloric  acid,  and  the  filtrate  evaporated  to  dryness,  a portion  of  the  residue,  when 
treated  with  5 parts  of  absolute  alcohol,  should  completely  dissolve,  and  the  addition  of 
an  equal  volume  of  stronger  ether  should  not  render  the  solution  turbid  (limit  of  alkalies). 
If  1 Gm.  of  dry  lithium  citrate  be  thoroughly  ignited  in  a porcelain  crucible,  so  as  to 
destroy  most  of  the  carbonaceous  matter,  and  the  residue  be  mixed  with  30  Cc.  of  water, 
it  should  require,  for  complete  neutralization,  not  less  than  14.2  Cc.  of  normal  sulphuric 
acid  solution  (corresponding  to  at  least  99.2  per  cent,  of  the  pure  salt),  methyl-orange 
being  used  as  indicator.” — U.  S. 

Other  acids  besides  citric  are  detected  by  their  several  tests.  Basylous  impurities  are 
recognized  by  igniting  some  of  the  salt,  dissolving  the  residue  in  hydrochloric  acid, 
evaporating  to  dryness,  and  testing  as  described  in  the  preceding  article.  “ 20  gr.  lose 
at  100°  C.  3.8  grs.,  at  115.5°  C.  additional  1.3  gr.,  and  at  a low  red  heat  leave  7.8  gr. 
of  white  residue.” — Br.  On  heating  a mixture  of  20  grains  of  the  salt  with  about  40 
grains  of  sulphuric  acid  until  carbonized,  then  evaporating  to  dryness  and  igniting,  a 
white  residue  of  lithium  sulphate  should  be  obtained  weighing  15.7  grains. 

Allied  Salts. — Lithii  borocitras.  Edmund  Scheibe  (1880)  has  prepared  three  of  these  com- 
pounds, but  regards  the  following  two  as  most  suitable  for  medicinal  use.  They  are  prepared  by 
dissolving  the  ingredients  in  boiling  water,  evaporating  the  solution  to  dryness,  and  powdering 
or  spreading  the  concentrated  liquid  upon  glass  for  obtaining  the  salt  in  scales.  For  lithium 
cliborocitrate , citric  acid  20  parts,  lithium  carbonate  7 parts,  and  boric  acid  12  parts  are  used  ; 
for  lithium  monoborocitrate , citric  acid  20  parts,  lithium  carbonate  4 parts,  and  boric  acid  6 parts. 

Action  and  Uses. — Like  the  vegetable  salts  of  sodium  and  potassium,  lithium 
citrate  is  decomposed  in  the  body  and  excreted  as  a carbonate  with  the  urine.  Its  opera- 
tion is  the  same  as  that  of  lithium  carbonate.  Its  dose  may  be  stated  at  Gm.  0.30—1.30 
(gr.  v — xx). 

LITHH  CITRAS  EFFERVESCENS,  V.  Effervescent  Lithium 

Citrate. 

Limonade  seche  au  citrate  de  lithine , Fr. ; Brauselithioncitrat , G. 

Preparation. — Lithium  Carbonate,  70  Gm. ; Sodium  Bicarbonate,  280  Gm. ; Citric 
Acid,  370  Gm. ; Sugar,  in  fine  powder,  a sufficient  quantity,  to  make  1000  Gm.  Tritu- 
rate the  citric  acid  with  about  200  Gm.  of  sugar,  and  dry  the  mixture  thoroughly ; then 
incorporate  with  it,  by  trituration,  the  lithium  carbonate  and  sodium  bicarbonate,  and 
enough  sugar  to  make  the  product  weigh  1000  Gm.  Keep  the  product  in  well-stoppered 
bottles. — U.  S. 

To  prepare  4 av.  ozs.  of  the  effervescent  salt  use  122  grains  of  lithium  carbonate,  490 
grains  each  of  sodium  bicarbonate  and  sugar,  and  648  grains  of  citric  acid,  and  proceed 
as  directed  above. 

In  the  official  formula,  of  the  370  Gm.  of  citric  acid  ordered  127  Gm.  will  be  required 
for  the  conversion  of  the  lithium  carbonate  into  the  citrate,  thus  leaving  243  Gm.  free 
to  react  with  the  sodium  bicarbonate  ; but  since  280  Gm.  of  the  sodium  salt  require  only 
233  Gm.  of  the  acid,  a slight  excess  of  the  latter,  equal  to  1 per  cent,  of  the  total  weight 
of  the  finished  product,  will  be  present.  The  free  citric  acid,  together  with  the  liberated 
carbonic  acid  when  the  salt  is  in  solution,  renders  the  taste  agreeably  acidulous. 

Bose , Gm.  4 to  8 (3!— i j ) . 


994 


LITH1I  SALICYLAS. 


LITHII  SALICYLAS,  U.  Lithium  Salicylate. 

Lithium  salicylicum. — Salicylate  de  lithine , Fr. ; Lithiumsalicylat,  G. 

Formula  LiC7H503.  Molecular  weight  143.68. 

Preparation. — Heat  a mixture  of  11  parts  of  salicylic  acid,  3 of  lithium  carbonate, 
and  25  of  water  until  effervescence  ceases ; filter,  wash  the  filter  with  water,  evaporate, 
and  keep  in  well-stoppered  bottles. 

Properties. — The  salt  may  be  obtained  crystallized  in  needles,  but  is  usually  met 
with  as  a white  powder,  deliquescent  on  exposure  to  air,  odorless  or  nearly  so,  having 
a sweetish  taste  and  a faintly  acid  reaction  ; very  soluble  in  water  and  alcohol.  When 
heated  the  salt  is  decomposed,  emitting  the  odor  of  phenol,  and  finally  leaves  a black 
residue  having  an  alkaline  reaction-,  which  imparts  a crimson  color  to  a non-luminous 
flame.  On  supersaturating  the  dilute  aqueous  solution  with  hydrochloric  acid  a bulky 
white  precipitate  is  obtained  which  is  soluble  in  boiling  water,  from  which  it  crystallizes 
on  cooling ; also  soluble  in  ether,  and  producing  an  intense  violet  color  with  ferric  salts. 
On  adding  to  a small  portion  of  the  salt,  in  a test-tube,  about  1 Cc.  of  concentrated  sul- 
phuric acid,  and  then,  cautiously,  about  1 Cc.  of  methylic  alcohol  in  drops,  on  heating 
the  mixture  to  boiling  the  odor  of  oil  of  gaultheria  will  be  evolved. 

Tests. — “ The  aqueous  solution  should  be  colorless  and  not  effervesce  on  the  addition 
•of  an  acid  (absence  of  carbonate).  When  agitated  with  15  parts  of  concentrated  sul- 
phuric acid  the  salt  should  not  impart  any  color  to  the  acid  within  fifteen  minutes  (ab- 
sence of  foreign  organic  matters).  If  a portion  of  the  residue  left  after  ignition  be 
dissolved  in  diluted  acetic  acid,  portions  of  the  filtrate  should  not  be  rendered  turbid  on 
addition  of  a few  drops  of  barium  chloride  test-solution  (absence  of  sulphate),  nor  be 
rendered  more  than  very  slightly  turbid  by  silver  nitrate  test-solution  (limit  of  chlo- 
ride). Other  portions  of  the  same  filtrate  should  not  be  affected  by  hydrogen  sulphide 
test-solution  (absence  of  arsenic,  lead,  etc.),  nor  by  ammonium  sulphide  test-solution 
(absence  of  aluminum,  etc.),  nor  by  ammonium  oxalate  test-solution  (absence  of  calcium), 
nor  by  sodium-cobaltic  nitrite  test-solution  (limit  of  potassium).  If  another  portion  of 
the  residue  left  after  ignition  be  dissolved  in  diluted  hydrochloric  acid  and  the  filtrate 
evaporated  to  dryness,  a portion  of  the  residue,  when  treated  with  5 parts  of  absolute 
alcohol,  should  completely  dissolve,  and  the  addition  of  an  equal  volume  of  ether  should 
nor,  render  the  solution  turbid  (limit  of  alkalies).  If  2 Gm.  of  dry  lithium  salicylate 
be  thoroughly  ignited  in  a porcelain  crucible,  so  as  to  destroy  most  of  the  carbonaceous 
matter,  and  the  residue  be  mixed  with  20  Cc.  of  water,  it  should  require  for  complete 
neutralization  not  less  than  13.8  Cc.  of  normal  sulphuric  acid  solution  (corresponding 
to  at  least  99.13  per  cent,  of  the  pure  salt),  methyl-orange  being  used  as  indicator.” — 
U.  S. 

Action  and  Uses. — There  is  no  reason  to  believe  that  this  salt  possesses  any  quali- 
ties that  do  not  belong  equally,  if  not  much  more  decidedly,  to  sodium  salicylate.  The 
two  salts  are  equally  soluble  in  water,  and  there  is  no  proof  that  lithium  salicylate  dis- 
plays any  peculiar  physiological  or  therapeutical  action.  Lithium  salicylate  is  richer 
than  the  corresponding  sodium  salt  in  salicylic  acid,  and,  like  it,  may  produce  morbid 
effects,  such  as  headache,  giddiness,  dulness  of  hearing,  and  noises  in  the  ears.  They 
may  last  for  twenty-four  hours,  but  the  headache  is  the  first  to  cease.  Yulpian  has  also 
observed  persistent  colic  and  diarrhoea  as  an  effect  of  large  doses  of  the  salt.  He  admits 
that  the  salicylic  acid  in  this  compound  is  its  most  efficient  factor.  He  employed  it  in 
acute  articular  rheumatism  and  acute  gout , and  found  that  it  sometimes  completed  a cure 
left  incomplete  by  sodium  salicylate,  or  accomplished  one  where  other  preparations 
failed.  He  conceived  that  the  relief,  even  of  chronic  articular  rheumatism  with  mis- 
shapen, stiffened,  and  painful  joints  was  not  entirely  unattainable  by  means  of  this 
medicine  ( Centralbl . f.d.g.  Therap .,  iv.  122).  The  average  dose  is  variously  stated  at 
from  Gm.  0.30-2.60  (5  to  40  grains).  According  to  Yulpian  the  maximum  efficient  dose 
amounts  to  Gm.  5 (75  grains)  daily,  while  Gm.  4 (60  grains)  are  generally  sufficient.  A 
single  dose  may  be  reckoned  at  Gm.  0.5  (7  or  8 grains).  It  is  worthy  of  remark  that 
while  the  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia  contains  no  less  than  six  lithium  compounds,  the  German 
Pharmacopoeia  (1882)  presents  but  one — the  carbonate.  It  may  well  be  doubted  whether 
even  this  one  be  not  superfluous. 


LOBELIA . 


995 


LOBELIA,  77.  S.9  Br. — Lobelia. 

Herba  lobeliae,  P.  A.,  P.  G. — Indian  tobacco , E. ; Lobelie  enjlee , Fr.  Cod.  ; Lobelien- 
kraut , G. 

The  leaves  and  tops  of  Lobelia  inflata,  Linne,  collected  after  a portion  of  the  capsules 
have  become  inflated.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 162. 

Nat.  Ord. — Lobeliaceae. 

Origin. — The  inflated  lobelia  is  an  annual  herb,  native  of  the  North  American  conti- 
nent, growing  in  dry  open  fields  and  on  the  borders  of  woods  from  the  northern  parts  of 
Canada  southward  throughout  the  United  States  to  Georgia  and  Mississippi.  It  flowers 
from  July  to  September,  and  should  be  collected  when  some  of  the  capsules  have  become 
inflated;  the  fresh  herb,  on  drying,  loses  from  75  to  80  per  cent,  of  moisture. 

Description. — The  herb  grows  from  20-50  Cm.* (12  to  20  inches)  high,  and  has  a 
branching  stem,  which  is  somewhat  furrowed  and  beset  with  spreading  hairs.  The  leaves 
are  alternate,  50-75  Mm.  (2  to  3 inches)  long,  ovate  or  oblong,  irregularly  toothed,  pubes- 
cent, and  pale  green ; the  lower  ones  petiolate,  the  upper  sessile  and  gradually  reduced 
to  bracts.  The  flowers  are  in  long  racemes,  terminating  the  stem  and  branches.  The 
calyx-tube  is  adherent  to  the  ovary,  has  the  limb  divided  into  five  narrow  teeth,  and 
becomes  inflated  in  fruit.  The  pale-blue  corolla  is  somewhat  two-lipped  and  has  the  upper 
side  of  the  tube  split  to  the  base.  The  five  stamens  are  free  from  the  corolla,  and  by  the 
union  of  the  filaments  and  anthers  form  a tube  which  encloses  the  single  style.  The  fruit 
is  a thin  subglobular  capsule  which  is  two-celled,  opens  at  the  apex,  and  contains  a large 
number  of  minute  brown  oblong  seeds,  the  surface  of  which  has,  under  the  microscope,  a 
reticulated  appearance.  It  has  an  herbaceous  somewhat  irritating  odor,  and  an  herbaceous 
afterward  burning  and  acrid  tobacco-like  taste. 

Constituents. — Lobelia  owes  its  virtues,  at  least  in  part,  to  an  alkaloid,  lobeline , 
which  was  first  recognized  by  Calhoun  (1833),  but  isolated  by  Procter  (1838).  To 
obtain  it,  the  tincture  made  with  alcohol  containing  acetic  acid  is  evaporated  to  a syrupy 
consistence,  triturated  with  excess  of  magnesia,  the  filtrate  agitated  with  ether,  and  the 
ethereal  solution  evaporated  ; the  impure  alkaloid 

requires  purification  by  combining  with  an  acid,  Fig.  175. 

treating  with  animal  charcoal,  and  again  decom- 
posing with  magnesia.  W.  D.  Richardson  (1872) 
obtained  more  alkaloid  from  the  above  mother- 
liquor  by  precipitation  with  potassium  iodo-hydrar- 
gyrate.  Lobeline  is  a yellow  somewhat  aromatic 
liquid  (amorphous  solid,  Lloyd  Bros. 


1886)  having  an  acrid  taste  ; it 


lighter 


Lobelia-seed, 

magnified. 


Lobelia  inflata,  Linn?,  and  section  through 
mens  and  pistil,  magnified  5 diameters. 


sta- 


) 

iS 

than  water,  is  soluble  in 
alcohol,  ether  and  fixed  oils,  and  less 
so  in  water.  Its  salts,  except  the 
acetate  are  crystallizable,  are  freely 
soluble  in  water,  scarcely  so  in  ether, 
and  not  altered  at  a boiling  tempera- 
ture, whereas  the  alkaloid  is  thereby 
deprived  of  its  acrid  taste.  Richard- 
son found  it  even  to  be  altered  by 
simple  exposure  to  air,  whereby  it 
became  resinified  and  unable  to  com- 
bine with  acids.  Bastick  (1850)  considered  it  volatile-,  but  to  evaporate  not  entirely 
unchanged.  Lewis  (1878)  corroborated  Richardson’s  observations,  and  observed  that 
sulphuric  acid  and  Frohde’s  reagent  impart  a brown-red  color,  and  that  on  boiling  with 
dilute  sulphuric  acid  or  with  potassa,  glucose  is  liberated  from  the  alkaloid.  V.  Rosen 
(1886)  obtained  both  a liquid  and  a solid  alkaloid  from  lobelia  herb. 

In  1871,  Enders  obtained  the  acrid  principle  lobelacrin  by  concentrating  the  tincture  in 
the  presence  of  charcoal,  washing  this  with  water,  and  exhausting  with  boiling  alcohol 
( Phamiacoyraphia) . It  forms  warty  tufts  of  a brown  color,  is  soluble  in  ether  and  chlo- 
roform, slightly  so  in  water,  is  decomposed  by  boiling  with  water,  and  yields  sugar  and 
lobelie  acid  under  the  influence  of  acids  and  alkalies.  It  is  possible  that  the  alkaloid,  as 
heretofore  obtained,  has  been  more  or  less  contaminated  with  this  body,  which,  according 
to  Lewis,  is  lobelate  of  lobeline. 

The  lobelie  acid  of  Enders  is  probably  identical  with  the  compound  of  Pereira  (1842), 


996 


LOBELIA. 


Procter,  and  Lewis  bearing  the  same  name.  Procter  obtained  it  from  the  decoction  of 
the  leaves  by  precipitating  it  with  copper  sulphate  and  decomposing  with  hydrogen 
sulphide.  It  is  crystallizable,  soluble  in  ether,  alcohol,  and  water,  and  yields  with  fer- 
ric salts  an  olive-brown,  with  copper  sulphate  a light-green,  with  lead  acetate  and  baryta- 
wTater  a yellow,  and  with  silver  nitrate  a white  afterward  brown  precipitate.  The  barium 
compound  of  Enders’s  acid  is  soluble  in  water. 

Inflating  obtained  by  Lloyd  Bros.  (1886)  from  the  herb  and  seeds  is  a crystallizable, 
neutral  principle,  soluble  in  most  simple  solvents. 

Reinsch  (1848)  obtained  from  the  herb  also  waxy,  resinous,  fatty,  and  gummy  matters, 
and  Procter  from  the  seeds  about  30  per  cent,  of  rapidly-drying  fixed  oil. 

Allied  Species. — Lobelia  syphilitica,  LinnS  ( Great  lobelia).  It  has  acute  elliptic-oblong, 
irregularly-serrate  leaves,  and  showy  blue  flowers  in  the  axils  of  the  upper  leaves,  forming  a 
terminal  raceme:  the  calyx  has  a short  hemispherical  tube,  five  long  acute  lobes,  and  at  their 
base  conspicuous  deflexed  appendages.  It  is  met  with  in  low  grounds  in  the  United  States. 

Lobelia  cardinalis,  Linn£  ( Cardinal-plant I).  It  is  common  in  marshy  and  low  grounds 
throughout  the  greater  portion  of  the  United  States,  nearly  smooth,  has  oblong-lanceolate,  acute, 
and  slightly-toothed  leaves,  and  bears  long  racemes  of  large  showy  scarlet-red  flowers  on  short 
pedicels  in  the  axils  of  the  leaf-like  bracts. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  action  of  lobelia  and  its  alkaloid  upon  animals  is  almost 
identical  with  that  of  tobacco  and  nicotine,  but  larger  doses  are  required  to  develop  it. 
Lobelia  is  ranked  as  a respiratory  poison,  and  in  the  cat  it  greatly  reduces  the  tempera- 
ture. Dr.  Bartholow,  using  the  hydrobromate  of  lobeline  in  his  experiments,  confirmed 
previous  results  by  showing  that  it  causes  death  by  respiratory  failure.  He  did  not  find 
that  it  depressed  the  heart  (Amer.  Jour,  of  Med.  Sci.,  xciii.  526). 

Cases  have  been  published  of  death  from  the  maladministration  of  this  drug  by  ignor- 
ant persons  assuming  to  be  practitioners  of  medicine.  Lobeline  sulphate  is  said  to  be  an 
emetic  after  the  manner  of  apomorphine. 

The  chief  medicinal  value  of  lobelia  is  in  the  treatment  of  asthma , wheher  the  disease 
be  purely  spasmodic  or  associated  with  pulmonary  emphysema,  or  chronic  bronchitis,  heart 
disease,  etc.  It  eliminates  from  the  attack  the  bronchial  spasm,  which  in  the  first-named 
affection  constitutes  the  whole  disease  and  in  the  others  is  a complication  only.  Gm.  4 
(a  fluidrachm)  of  the  tincture  should  be  given  every  hour,  or,  if  the  symptoms  are  urgent, 
every  half  hour  until  relief  is  obtained  or  the  characteristic  effects  of  the  medicine  are 
produced.  This  dose  (for  adults)  has  been  greatly  exceeded  by  Nunes  ( Bull . de  Ther ., 
cx.  161)  and  by  Moncorvo  ( ibid .,  cxi.  321)  who  prescribed  from  Gm.  8-16  (f^ij— iv)  of 
the  tincture.  It  sometimes  occasioned  vomiting,  but  no  alarming  effects.  Its  efficacy  in 
the  other  diseases  mentioned,  as  well  as  in  whooping  cough,  will  depend  mainly  upon  the 
predominance  of  the  nervous  element  in  them.  Yet,  when  dyspnoea  is  due  to  inflamma- 
tory changes  in  the  bronchia,  or  to  the  presence  in  these  tubes  of  secreted  matter,  rather 
than  to  spasm,  lobelia  displays  special  virtues  that  entitle  it  to  be  preferred  before  numer- 
ous “ expectorants.”  It  is  of  no  more  advantage  in  inflammatory  laryngitis  than  various 
other  nauseants  and  emetics,  but  it  is  decidedly  more  efficacious  in  spasmodic  laryngitis 
than  most  other  remedies  of  the  same  class.  In  almost  all  cases  of  distress  in  breathing 
arising  from  a want  of  proper  balance  between  tho  lungs  and  the  heart,  this  medicine 
affords  relieff ; as,  for  instance,  when  the  lungs  are  congested  by  mitral  obstruction  and 
there  is  a tendency  to  oedema  of  those  organs;  and,  again,  when  the  lungs  are  themselves 
diseased  so  as  to  interfere  with  the  cardiac  circulation,  as  occasionally  happens  even  in 
tuberculous  consumption.  Hoemostatic  virtues  have  been  ascribed  to  the  tincture  of 
lobelia  which  probably  belonged  only  to  the  alcohol  of  the  preparation. 

The  dose  of  lobelia  as  an  emetic  is  Gm.  0.60-1.30  (gr.  x-xx)  but  this  use  of  it  is 
unnecessary,  and  may  be  dangerous.  As  an  expectorant  the  dose  is  from  Gm.  0.06—0.30 
(gr.  i— v).  The  preparations  most  frequently  employed  are  the  tincture  and  the  vinegar 
of  lobelia,  of  either  of  which  the  dose  as  an  expectorant  is  from  Gm.  0.60—5  (npx-lx). 
In  asthmatic  attacks  Gm.  4—8  (%i— ii)  should  be  administered  every  half  hour  or  hour, 
according  to  the  urgency  of  the  symptoms.  The  dose  of  the  fluid  extract  as  a nauseant 
or  expectorant  is  Gm.  0.06—0.30  (n^i— v).  Moncorvo  prescribed  lobeline  in  doses  of  Gm. 
0.01  (gr.  £)  gradually  increasing  it  until  Gm.  0.40  (6  grains)  a day  were  taken.  No 
toxic  action  resulted.  He  also  administered  it  hypodermically  ( Therap . Gaz.,  xiii.  466). 
Bartholow  says  “ the  dose  of  the  salts  of  lobeline  will  vary  from  gr.  to  gr.,”  which 
appears  to  be  too  small  for  efficiency. 

Lobelia  syphilitica  was  formerly  used  by  the  aborigines  for  the  cure  of  syphilis, 
probably  on  account  of  its  diaphoretic  action,  and  at  one  time  its  virtues  were  maintained 


LOLITJM. 


997 


by  several  eminent  physicians  in  Europe.  They  are  not  any  longer  believed  in  ; never- 
theless, there  can  be  no  doubt  that,  in  so  far  as  diaphoresis  tends  to  cure  syphilis,  the 
disease  may  be  palliated  by  lobelia.  Older  authorities  describe  it  as  being  diaphoretic, 
and  hence  depurative.  L.  cardinalis  possesses  similar  virtues,  but  in  a less  degree.  It 
was  used  by  the  American  Indians  as  an  anthelmintic. 

Acetum  Lobelia  (Pharmacop.  1880). — Vinegar  of  lobelia  is  especially  indicated  in  con- 
gested states  of  the  bronchial  mucous  membrane,  with  imperfect  secretion  and  spasmodic 
constriction  of  the  air-tubes.  It  may  be  appropriately  associated  with  preparations  of 
antimony,  squill,  seneka,  or  ipecacuanha.  The  dose  for  an  adult  is  Gm.  2-4  (npxxx-f^j) 
when  a merely  expectorant  operation  is  desired ; but  as  a nauseant  and  antispasmodic 
Gm.  4-8  (f*3j— ii)  should  be  given  at  intervals  of  an  hour  until  its  characteristic  effects  are 
produced. 


LOLIUM. — Darnel. 

Bearded  darnel , E. ; Ivraie:  Fr. ; Lolch,  Taumelkorn , G. 

The  fruit  (caryopsis)  of  Lolium  temulentum,  Linne , s.  L.  arvense,  Withering.  Bentley 
and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 295. 

Nat.  Ord. — Graminese. 

Origin. — The  bearded  darnel  grows  on  waysides  and  in  grain-fields  in  Western  Asia 
and  throughout  Europe,  and  has  been  introduced  to  some  extent  in  most  grain-growing 
countries;  it  is  rare  in  the  United  States.  It  is  an  annual  about  75  Cm.  (2|  feet)  high, 
with  rather  large  leaves,  and  has  an  elongated  inflorescence,  the  spikelets  being  nearly 
25  Mm.  (1  inch)  long,  about  seven-flowered,  somewhat  suppressed,  alternate,  sessile, 
appressed  to  the  concave  rachis,  and  about  as  long  as  the  glumes. 

Description. — The  fruit  is  oblong-ovoid,  nearly  6 Mm.  (I  inch)  long,  enclosed  in 
the  paleae,  grooved  on  the  inner  and  convex  on  the  outer  surface,  smooth,  pale-brown,  inter- 
nally white,  inodorous,  and  of  a farinaceous  afterward  bitterish  taste. 

Constituents. — The  chemical  investigations  undertaken  for  the  purpose  of  isolat- 
ing the  poisonous  principle  have  been  reviewed  by  Wittstein  (1875).  The  delete- 
rious properties  of  the  plant,  according  to  Ludwig  and  Stahl  (1864)  appear  to  be  due  to 
an  acrid  fixed  oil  and  to  an  amorphous  yellowish  glucoside,  which  is  soluble  in  water, 
alcohol  and  ether,  and  has  a bitter  and  acrid  taste.  Bley  (1834)  and  Muratori  (1837) 
ascribed  them  to  an  acid  body,  and  Baillet  and  Fihol  (1863)  to  a non-saponifiable  oily 
compound.  Bley  (1838)  obtained  his  loliin  by  precipitating  the  alcoholic  solution  of 
the  aqueous  extract  with  ether  ; the  yield  was  only  per  cent,  of  a dingy- white  powder 
having  an  acrid  taste.  Antze  (1891)  obtained  a volatile  alkaloid,  loliin e , forming  crys- 
tallizable  salts  with  acids  and  temulentic  acid , crystalline  and  melting  at  234°  C.  The 
fruit  contains  the  ordinary  constituents  of  grain,  among  them  from  30  to  50  per  cent,  of 
starch,  the  granules  of  which,  according  to  Schwerdtfeger  (1853)  are  about  one-third 
the  size  of  wheat  starch,  circular,  with  a moderately  white  margin  and  a bright,  strongly 
translucent  surface  without  marks.  On  incineration,  darnel  fruit  leaves  about  5 per 
cent,  of  ash. 

Lolium  perenne,  Linne , ray-  or  rye-grass , is  a pasture-grass,  has  a perennial  creeping 
rhizome,  the  glumes  shorter  than  the  spikelets,  and  awnless  or  short-awned  flowers.  It 
is  not  poisonous. 

Action  and  Uses. — A large  number  of  persons  have  at  different  times  been  poi- 
soned by  bread  made  with  flour  containing  lolium.  Upon  different  animals  it  acts  dif- 
ferently : it  is  poisonous  to  dogs,  sheep,  and  horses,  but  not  to  hogs,  cows,  and  ducks, 
and  quails  are  said  to  be  fond  of  the  seeds  as  food.  Its  effects  have  been  known  from 
ancient  times  to  be  narcotic  and  anaesthetic.  They  comprise  the  following  symptoms  : 
headache,  vertigo,  disturbed  and  sometimes  yellow  vision,  ringing  in  the  ears,  paresis  of 
the  tongue,  oppression  in  breathing,  anxiety,  vomiting,  and  sometimes  purging,  urina- 
tion, general  muscular  trembling,  cold  sweating,  and  overpowering  and  deep  sleep.  In 
several  cases  the  poisoning  has  proved  fatal.  There  is  reason  to  suspect  that  the  old 
custom  of  using  darnel  to  adulterate  malt  and  distilled  liquors  is  not  wholly  obsolete. 
Ihe  peculiar  intoxication  produced  by  some  of  these  drinks  strongly  suggests  such 
a fraudulent  and  wicked  addition  to  them.  Lolium  has  been  mixed  with  poultices 
applied  for  the  relief  of  local  pains , pleuritic,  neuralgic,  and  rheumatic,  and,  although  it 
has  been  given  internally,  neither  the  grounds  of  its  administration  nor  its  alleged  results 
are  entitled  to  any  confidence. 


998 


LOTIONES. — L U PIN  US. 


LOTIONES. — Lotions. 

Washes , E. ; Lotions , Fr. ; Waschungen , G. 

Lotions  are  liquid  preparations,  usually  containing  water  as  their  principal  vehicle,  and 
are  ordinarily  applied  by  wetting  lint  or  muslin  with  them,  and  keeping  this  upon  the 
affected  part. 

LOTIO  HYDRARGYRI  FLAVA,  Br, — Yellow  Mercurial  Lotion. 

Aqua  phagedsenica. — Yellow  wash , E.  ; Eau  phagedenique , Eau  divine  de  Fernel , Fr. ; 
Phagedanisches  Wasser , Altschadenwasser , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Perchloride  of  Mercury  18  grains;  Solution  of  Lime  10 
fluidounces.  Mix. — Br. 

A double  decomposition  takes  place,  resulting  in  the  formation  of  calcium  chloride  and 
finely-divided  yellow  mercuric  oxide.  It  should  be  well  shaken  when  used. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  preparation  is  stimulant,  and  even  caustic.  Its  use  is 
restricted  almost  exclusively  to  the  treatment  of  indolent  chancres  and  other  syphilitic 
ulcers.  It  should  be  applied  upon  lint. 

LOTIO  HYDRARGYRI  NIGRA,  Br, — Black  Mercurial  Lotion. 

Aqua  phagedsenica  nigra,  Aqua  nigra , Aqua  mercurialis  nigra. — Black  wash , E.  ; Eau 
phagedenique  noir , Fr. ; Schwarzes  Wasser , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Subchloride  of  Mercury  30  grains;  Solution  of  Lime  10 
fluidounces.  Mix. — Br. 

The  chemical  reaction  between  the  two  substances  results  in  producing  calcium  chlo- 
ride and  black  mercurous  oxide.  It  must  be  well  shaken  when  used. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  action  of  black  wash  appears  to  be  mildly  stimulant  and 
astringent  as  well  as  protective.  It  may  be  applied  on  lint  to  syphilitic  ulcers. 

LUPINUS.— Lupin. 

Lrupin , Fr. ; Feighohne , Wolfsbohne , G. ; Altramuz , Chochos , Sp. 

The  seed  of  Lupinus  albus,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Leguminosas,  Papilionaceae. 

Origin  and  Description. — This  annual  is  a native  of  Southern  Europe  and 
Western  Asia,  and  is  cultivated  in  gardens.  It  is  about  50  Cm.  (20  inches)  high,  and 
has  palmately  five-  or  seven-foliate  leaves,  with  the  leaflets  obovate-oblong,  25-50  Mm. 
(1  or  2 inches)  long,  smooth  above  and  white  hairy  beneath;  the  flowers  are  in  terminal 
racemes  on  short  pedicels,  white  and  rather  large  ; the  legume  is  7-10  Cm.  (3-4  inches) 
long,  flattish,  and  contains  three  to  six  white  circular  and  flattened  seeds,  which  are 
inodorous  and  have  a somewhat  bitter  taste. 

Allied  Plants. — L.  hirsutus,  Linn6 , has  spatulate-oblong  leaflets  and  blue  or  rose-colored 
flowers. 

L.  luteus,  LinnS,  is  distinguished  by  its  yellow  flowers;  like  the  preceding,  it  is  of  South 
European  origin. 

A large  number  of  lupins  are  indigenous  to  the  Western  section  and  the  Pacific  coast  of  the 
United  States,  some  of  which,  like  L.  polyphyllus  and  densiflorus,  Nuttall , are  cultivated  in 
gardens.  These,  as  well  as  the  blue-flowered  L.  perennis,  Linnt which  grows  in  sandy  soil  in 
the  Eastern  portion  of  the  United  States,  may  possess  similar  properties. 

Constituents. — Cassola  (1835),  and  afterward  Reinsch  (1849),  found  the  bitter 
principle  of  lupin  to  be  insoluble  in  ether.  Schulze  and  Barbieri  (1878)  obtained  it 
crystalline  from  Lupinus  luteus  by  preparing  a tincture  with  diluted  alcohol,  precipita- 
ting with  lead  subacetate,  decomposing  the  precipitate  with  hydrogen  sulphide,  ami 
treating  with  hot  water,  on  the  cooling  of  which  the  bitter  principle  crystallizes  in  yel- 
lowish-white fine  needles.  This  lupinin , C29Il32016,  is  soluble  in  alkalies  with  a dark- 
yellow  color,  and  on  being  boiled  with  dilute  acids  is  split  into  sugar  and  lupigenin , 
C17H1206.  Eichhorn  (1867)  obtained  an  alkaloid  which  was  further  investigated  by 
Beyer,  Siewert,  Liebscher  (1880),  and  Baumert  (1881).  Lupinine,  C21H40N2O2,  prepared 
from  yellow  lupin-seed,  forms  colorless  rhombic  prisms  of  a fruit-like  odor  and  intensely 
bitter  taste.  Campani  and  Bettelli  (1881)  isolated  an  alkaloid  from  white  lupin-seed. 
These  seeds  appear  to  contain  several  alkaloids. 


L UPULINUM. 


999 


Action  and  Uses. — In  recent  times  they  have  almost  ceased  to  be  employed  in 
medicine,  but  in  1877,  Donnabella  (. Practitioner , xxi.  211)  reported  that,  having  thrown 
into  the  rectum  about  5 ounces  of  a decoction  of  lupins  he  soon  began  to  feel  general 
malaise,  uneasiness  of  the  head,  obscuration  of  vision,  heaviness  of  the  eyelids,  vertigo, 
excitement  of  mind,  and  a sense  of  constriction  of  the  larynx  and  pharynx.  Several 
months  afterward  he  repeated  the  experiment  with  the  same  results.  It  is  probable  that 
this  reporter  used  in  his  experiments  some  very  different  seeds  from  those  of  white  lupin, 
since  none  of  the  ancient  writers  who  treat  of  them  at  length  make  the  least  allusion  to 
their  being  poisonous. 


LUPULINUM,  U.  Br. — Lupulin. 

Glandulse  lupuli , P.  G. — Lupuline , Fr.  Cod.  ; Hopfenmehl,  Lupulin,  G. ; Lupulina,  Sp. 

The  yellow  glandular  powder  separated  from  the  strobiles  of  Hum  ulus  Lupulus, 
Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Urticacese,  Cannabineae. 

Origin. — (See  Humulus,  page  818).  On  handling  dry  hops  the  glandular  powder 
becomes  detached,  and  is  freed  from  fragments  of  the  bracts,  etc.  by  sifting;  about  10 
per  cent,  of  the  weight  of  the  hops  may  be  obtained. 

Description. — Lupulin  has  also  been  called  lupulite.  When  fresh  it  is  a bright, 
brownish-yellow,  afterward  yellowish-brown,  granular  resinous  powder,  which  has  the 
aromatic  odor  and  bitter  and  aromatic  taste  of  hops.  Under 
the  microscope  it  is  seen  to  consist  of  two  hemispheres,  the 
lower  and  firmer  of  which  is  somewhat  obtusely  conical  or  top- 
shaped,  the  upper  one  rounded,  the  surface  of  both  reticulate. 

In  the  dry  state  the  lower  one  nearly  retains  its  shape,  but  the 
more  delicate  upper  part  collapses  and  forms  a flattish  hood. 

The  glands  contain  a brown-yellow  liquid  which  dries  up  to  a 
resinous  mass.  Lupulin  should  be  free  from  sand,  which  readily 
subsides  from  it  when  agitated  with  water. 

Constituents. — On  distilling  hops  with  water,  Personne  (1854)  obtained  valerianic 
acid  and  a volatile  oil , which  boils  between  140°  and  300°  C.  (284°  and  572°  F.),  is  color- 
less and  neutral,  but  becomes  resinous  and  acid  on  exposure,  and  consists  of  a lighter 
portion,  C10H16,  and  valerol,  C6H10O,  from  which  by  gradual  oxidation  valerianic  acid  is 
formed.  The  residue  from  the  distillation  when  treated  with  lime  yields  a distillate  of 
valeral , C5Hi0O.  The  resin  of  lupulin  was  examined  by  Ylaanderen  (1858),  who  found 
it  tasteless,  combining  with  metals,  and  becoming  more  hydrated  in  the  course  of  purifi- 
cation. The  principal  constituent  of  lupulin  is  wax,  which  Lermer  (1863)  found  to  be 
myricin  (myricylic  palmitate).  He  also  isolated  the  bitter  principle  and  called  it  lupama- 
ric  acid  (Hopfenbittersaure).  To  prepare  it,  the  ethereal  extract.of  fresh  hops  is  treated 
with  90  per  cent,  alcohol,  which  leaves  the  wax  behind ; the  alcohol  is  evaporated,  the 
residue  dissolved  in  ether,  and  this  solution  agitated  with  strong  potassa  solution  to 
remove  resin ; agitation  with  water  now  dissolves  the  potassium  lupamarate,  which  is  pre- 
cipitated with  copper  sulphate,  and  the  precipitate,  decomposed  by  hydrogen  sulphide, 
yields  the  acid  in  white  crystals,  becoming  yellow  on  exposure,  insoluble  in  wTater,  but 
soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  chloroform,  carbon  disulphide,  and  oil  of  turpentine.  Its  com- 
position is  C32H50O7. 

Tests. — “ On  incineration,  lupulin  should  yield  less  than  10  per  cent,  of  ash.  If  ex- 
hausted with  ether,  lupulin  should  leave  a residue  weighing  not  over  30  per  cent.,  and 
the  ethereal  tincture  on  being  evaporated  at  a moderate  temperature  should  leave  a brown, 
soft  extract  having  the  odor  of  hop  in  a high  degree.” — P.  G. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Tinctura  lupulin^,  U.  S.  1870.  Lupulin  4 troyounces; 
alcohol  sufficient  to  obtain  2 pints  of  tincture ; prepare  by  percolation. 

Tinctura  lupulin^:  ammoniata.  Lupulin  2 ounces;  aromatic  spirit  of  ammonia 
sufficient  to  obtain  1 Imperial  pint  (194  fluid  ounces  U.  S. ; Dr.  Dyce  Duckworth,  1868.) 

Pills  of  lupulin  may  be  prepared  by  triturating  lupulin  with  a little  ether  until  a 
plastic  mass  is  obtained,  which  may  be  incorporated  with  camphor  or  with  resins  or 
oleoresins. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  account  given  of  the  operation  of  hop  (see  Humulus) 
makes  an  extended  discussion  of  lupulin  unnecessary,  since  it  is  upon  this  product  that 
the  virtues  of  hop  chiefly  depend.  In  doses  of  Gm.  1.30—1.60  (gr.  xx-xxv)  lupulin 
occasions  a lively  sense  of  warmth  at  the  epigastrium,  which  afterward  extends  to  the 


Fig.  176. 


Lupulin  (fresh). 


1000 


LYCOPERDON. 


whole  abdomen.  Constipation,  with  colicky  pain,  is  apt  to  ensue,  but  the  appetite  and 
digestion  appear  to  be  invigorated.  It  is  alleged  that  full  doses  of  lupulin  diminish  the 
frequency  of  the  pulse.  It  tends  to  allay  the  susceptibility  which  is  a frequent  cause  of  an 
excited  circulation.  Probably  in  this  manner,  rather  than  by  a direct  action  upon  the 
brain,  it  favors  sleep  and  tends  to  repress  that  excitement  which  occasions  priapism , sem- 
inal emissions , and  nocturnal  incontinence  of  urine.  It  has  seemed  to  allay  irritability  of 
the  bladder  when  opium  was  not  tolerated.  It  may  be  prescribed  in  doses  of  from  Gm. 
0.30-0.60  (gr.v-x)  and  upward,  mixed  with  jelly  or  syrup. 

LYCOPERDON.— Puff-Ball. 

Lycoperdon  solidum,  Gronovius , s.  Pachyma  Cocos,  Fries. 

Nat.  Ord. — Fungi,  Gasteromycetes. 

Origin. — This  curious  product  is  found  attached  to  the  roots  of  fir  trees  in  the  south- 
ern part  of  the  United  States  from  Virginia  westward  to  Kansas,  and  is  known  as  Indian 
bread  or  tuckahoe.  It  likewise  grows  in  China,  where  it  is  used  under  the  name  of  fnh- 
ling.  Currey  and  Kelley  consider  it  to  be  an  altered  state  of  the  root  of  the  tree  occa- 
sioned by  the  presence  of  a fungus,  the  mycelium  of  which  traverses,  disintegrates,  and 
even  obliterates,  the  wood  and  bark.  This  view  is  sustained  by  the  result  of  the  analy- 
ses made  by  R.  T.  Brown  (1871)  and  J.  L.  Keller  (1876). 

Description. — The  tuckahoe  is  an  irregularly  globular  or  elongated  body,  attaining 
30  Cm.  (1  foot)  or  more  in  diameter,  and  from  a few  ounces  to  several  pounds  in  weight. 
It  is  externally  of  an  ashy-black,  and  has  a rugose  surface ; internally  it  is  whitish,  fis- 
sured, more  or  less  spongy,  but  firm,  of  a somewhat  farinaceous  appearance,  sometimes 
quite  compact,  and  breaks  into  irregular  masses.  It  is  without  odor  and  has  an  insipid 
taste. 

Constituents. — Brown  found  it  to  contain  14  per  cent,  of  water,  0.93  of  glucose, 
2.63  of  gum,  17.34  of  pectose,  64.45  of  cellulose,  and  0.16  per  cent,  of  ash  ; the  nitrogen 
amounted  only  to  0.36  per  cent.  Keller’s  specimen  yielded  77.27  per  cent,  of  pectose, 
3.76  of  cellulose,  and  3.64  of  ash,  the  other  constituents  being  nearly  in  the  same  pro- 
portion as  in  the  former  analysis. 

Allied  Plants. — Lycoperdon  Bovista,  Linne , s.  Lycoperdon  (Bovista,  Nees ) giganteum,  Batsch. 
— Giant  puff-ball,  E. ; Vesse-loup,  Fr. ; Bovist,  G. — This  fungus  forms  globular  or  obconical 
masses  of  a more  or  less  yellow,  or  when  old  dark-brown,  color,  and  attaining  a diameter  of 
about  60  Cm.  (2  feet).  The  inner  part  has  a spongy  texture,  and  was  formerly  known  as  Fungus 
chirurgorum,  and  used  for  arresting  haemorrhages. 

Elaphomyces  granulatus,  Fries  (Lycoperdon  cervinum,  Linn£,  Scleroderma,  Persoon). — Puff- 
ball, Hart’s  truffle,  E. ; Truffe  de  cerf,  Fr. ; Ilirschbrunst,  G. — Its  size  is  about  that  of  a wal- 
nut. It  is  brown,  verrucose,  internally  purplish-brown,  and  was  considered  to  possess  stimulant 
properties. 

Tuber  cibarium,  Sibthorp  (Lycoperdon  Tuber,  Linn£) — Truffle,  E. ; Truffe,  Fr. ; Triiffel,  G. 
— It  is  of  subterraneous  growth,  subglobular,  aboutfthe  size  of  a walnut,  externally  blackish  and 
verrucose,  internally  white,  marbled  with  brown,  fleshy.  Like  some  allied  species,  it  is  edible. 

Action  and  Uses. — In  1853,  Dr.  B.  W.  Richardson’s  attention  having  been 
directed  to  the  fact  that  the  smoke  of  the  common  puff-ball  had  been  used  in  the 
country  for  stupefying  bees  in  order  to  secure  the  contents  of  their  hive  without  sac- 
rificing the  insects,  he  conceived  the  idea  that  it  might  be  made  use  of  as  a surgical 
anaesthetic.  He  accordingly  experimented  upon  dogs,  cats,  and  rabbits,  and  in  one 
case  removed  a tumor  from  a dog  without  any  sign  of  pain  being  shown  during  the 
operation.  When  a moderate  quantity  was  inhaled  gradually,  the  narcotism  came  on  and 
passed  off  slowly,  the  animal  exhibiting  all  the  symptoms  of  intoxication,  with  convul- 
sions, and  sometimes  vomiting.  It  destroyed  life  slowly ; a dog  would  inhale  the  fumes 
for  twenty  minutes  or  half  an  hour  after  being  completely  narcotized  previous  to  expiring. 
The  heart’s  beat  in  all  cases  survived  the  respiration.  The  lungs  after  death  were  pale; 
there  was  no  sign  of  congestion  in  any  organ  ; the  blood  retained  its  red  color,  but  did  not 
coagulate  quickly  ; cadaveric  rigidity  set  in  within  two  or  three  hours.  During  recovery 
from  protracted  narcotism  an  animal  would  sometimes  be  quite  conscious,  although  insen- 
sible to  pain.  Ilerapath  made  experiments  which  proved  that  the  gas  which  is  the  active 
agent  in  producing  the  preceding  phenomena  is  carbonic  oxide,  and  his  conclusion,  con- 
firmed by  Snow,  was  accepted  by  Dr.  Richardson.  No  practical  application  has  been 
made  of  this  curious  discovery. 

L.  Bovista  has  long  been  employed  in  Europe  as  a topical  means  of  arresting  haemor- 
rhages. In  1869,  Dr.  Porcher  stated  concerning  L.  giganteum  (L.  Bovista)  that  it  is 


LYCOPODIUM. 


1001 


found  in  abundance  near  Charleston,  S.  C.,  particularly  where  the  cattle  are  driven  to 
graze.  It  is  used  sliced  and  fried  in  butter  or  stewed  in  milk  like  the  common  mush- 
room. A correspondent  wrote  to  him,  “ I and  a number  of  others  have  made  several 
meals  on  lycoperdon,  and  I think  I have  discovered  in  myself  well-marked  evidences  of 
its  narcotic  influence,  and  two  other  experimenters  have  described  similar  sensations  to 
me.”  A case  is  also  referred  to  in  which  a person  “ had  been  seriously  affected  in  this 
way  by  too  large  a meal  of  lycoperdon.”  Dr.  E.  Thompson  of  Tyrone  has  reported  its 
remarkable  virtues  as  a haemostatic,  antiseptic,  and  anodyne  dressing  for  cancerous  ulcers 
and  bleeding  wounds  ( Practitioner , xxix.  288). 

The  powder  of  this  fungus  has  been  applied  as  a haemostatic  in  slight  and  superficial 
wounds,  and,  like  other  dry  absorbing  powders,  in  intertrigo. 

It  is  said  to  have  been  used  as  food  by  the  Indians  of  the  Southern  States. 

LYCOPODIUM,  U.  S.,  P.  GL— Lycopodium. 

Semen  lycopodii , Pulvis  lycopodii,  Sulphur  vegetabile. — Vegetable  sulphur , E.  ; Lyco- 
pode,  Soufre  vegetal , Fr. ; Bdrlappsamen , Streupulver , Hexenmehl , Bhtzpulver , G.  ; Lico- 
podia , Sp. 

The  sporules  of  Lycopodium  clavatum,  Linne , and  of  other  species  of  Lycopodium. 
Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 299. 

Nat.  Ord. — Lycopodiaceae. 

Origin. — The  common  club-moss  is  a low  creeping  perennial  which  is  found  in  dry 
woods  distributed  over  the  greater  portion  of  the  globe,  but  is  most  frequent  in  northern 
countries.  The  stem  is  0.6-1. 2 M.  (2  to  4 feet)  long,  with  evergreen  imbricated  linear 
awl-shaped  inflexed  leaves,  and  with  ascending  very  leafy  branches  5-10  Cm.  (2  to  4 
inches)  high,  the  fertile  ones  terminated  by  a long  peduncle  bearing  two  or  three  erect 
linear  cylindrical  spikes  3-5  Cm.  (11  to  2 inches)  in  length,  with  roundish  ovate  bristly- 
pointed  bracts,  in  the  axils  of  which  are  kidney-shaped  sporangia  containing  the  sporules. 
The  spikes  are  collected  before  they  are  fully  matured,  and  after  the  powder  has  fallen 
out,  it  is  separated  by  a sieve  from  the  other  parts.  It  is  collected  in  Germany  and  other 
countries  of  Central  Europe. 


Fig.  177. 


Sporules  of  Lycopodium. 


Description. — Lycopodium  is  a fine,  very  mobile,  pale  yellowish  powder  which  is 
free  from  odor  and  taste.  It  floats  upon  water,  and  is  wetted  by  it  with  difficulty  and 
only  after  continued  trituration,  unless  it  has  been  previously  washed  with  alcohol,  ether, 
or  chloroform  to  remove  a superficial  layer  of  oily  matter  ; after  boiling  it  sinks  in  water. 
When  triturated  it  acquires  a darker  tint,  becoming  more  coherent  and  greasy ; when 
slowly  heated  it  burns  quietly,  but  when  thrown  into  a flame  it  burns  suddenly  and  with 
a hissing  noise ; when  ignited  it  should  leave  not  more  than  5 percent,  of  ash.  Ex- 
amined by  the  microscope,  it  is  found  to  be  rounded  on  one  side  while  the  other  forms  a 
three-sided  pyramid.  The  entire  surface  is  covered  by  fine  polyhedric  meshes  except  at 
the  edges  of  the  pyramid;  but  at  its  intersection  with  the  rounded  base  short  projections 
are  observed. 

Constituents. — Fliickiger  (1872)  determined  the  presence  in  lycopodium  of  a much 
larger  amount  of  fixed  oil  than  the  6 per  cent,  observed  by  Bucholz  (1807),  and  after  rup- 
turing the  granules  by  long  trituration  with  sand  obtained  47  per  cent,  of  a bland  oil  which 
does  not  solidify  at  — 15°  C.  (5°  F.).  Bucholz  found  also  in  it  3 per  cent,  of  sugar.  Sten- 
house  obtained  minute  quantities  of  volatile  bases,  and  Fliickiger  determined  the  ash  to 
amount  to  4 per  cent.,  to  be  not  alkaline,  and  to  contain  alumina  and  1 per  cent,  of  phos- 
phoric acid.  The  substance  of  the  cell-wall  has  been  called  pollenin  ; on  treatment  with 
potassa  it  is  colored  yellow,  and  then  acquires  a blue  color  with  sulphuric  acid  and 
iodine. 

Impurities  and  Adulterations. — The  sporules  of  allied  species  of  Lycopodium, 
particularly  of  L.  complanatum,  annotinum,  and  i-nnundatum,  Linne , which  are  found  in 
both  hemispheres,  are  sometimes  collected ; they  are  very  similar  in  appearance  and 


1002 


LYCOPUS. 


properties.  Mineral  substances  like  powdered  talc,  gypsum,  etc.  are  detected  by  tbe 
larger  amount  of  ash,  and  will  readily  subside  when  a little  is  agitated  with  carbon 
disulphide  or  chloroform.  Powdered  rosin  is  detected  by  treatment  with  alcohol  and 
evaporation  of  the  tincture.  Dextrin  is  soluble  in  water ; its  concentrated  solution  is 
precipitated  by  strong  alcohol,  and  after  having  been  boiled  with  dilute  sulphuric  acid  it 
reduces  red  cuprous  oxide  from  Trommer’s  solution.  Starch  is  separated  by  carbon 

disulphide,  in  which  it  sinks, 
Fig.  178.  and  sublimed  sulphur ? if  pres- 

ent, will  be  dissolved  by  the 
liquid,  and  afterward  obtained 
on  evaporating  it.  Starch  is 
also  recognized  by  the  blue 
color  it  acquires  with  solution 
of  iodine.  All  admixtures  are, 
Pollen  of  Pine.  however,  easily  detected  by 

means  of  the  microscope ; the 
pollen  of  pine,  which  is  sometimes  found  mixed  with  it,  consists  of  an  oval  plano-convex 
cell,  at  each  end  of  which  is  a smaller  globular  one  projecting  on  the  flat  side. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  powder,  on  account  of  its  extreme  lightness  and  dryness, 
is  used  as  a convenient  protective  for  tender  and  raw  surfaces  of  the  skin  in  intertrigo, 
erysipelas,  eczema , herpes , superficial  ulcers,  etc.,  and  by  druggists  to  place  in  boxes  contain- 
ing pills  to  prevent  them  from  adhering  to  one  another.  Lycopodium  was  formerly 
used  as  a dressing  for  unhealthy  ulcers  as  well  as  in  various  affections  which  required 
both  stimulant  and  demulcent  agents,  particularly  diseases  of  the  urinary  organs  and 
dysentery,  and  we  have  known  it  to  be  credited  with  diuretic  power.  Mr.  Fenwick 
( Ther . Gaz.,  xi.  703)  reports  its  tincture  of  value  in  cases  of  irritable  bladder  not 
due  to  actual  disease,  such  as  the  spasmodic  retention  of  urine  in  children  in  the  dose  of 
15  minims  to  1 fluidrachm.  It  has  been  given  for  the  relief  of  chronic  bronchitis  and 
rheumatism.  It  is  said  (Cazin)  that  in  Poland  it  is  used  upon  the  hair  of  persons  af- 
fected with  plica  Polonica.  But  since  it  has  been  shown  that  this  affection  is  not  a 
disease,  but  only  a result  of  filthiness  (Kaposi),  it  has  been  cured  by  the  free  use  of 
oil  and  the  comb. 

Lycopodium  saururus.  In  1886  Dujardin-Beaumetz  {Bull,  et  Mem.  Soc.  Tlier.,  p.  139) 
drew  attention  to  the  emeto-cathartic  properties  of  this  plant  which  furnishes  an  alkaloid 
(piliganine)  of  which  two  grains  killed  a dog.  Its  alcoholic  extract  was  purgative  in 
the  dose  of  Gm.  0.35  (gr.  vi),  and  the  hydrochlorate  of  piliganine  in  doses  of  Gm. 
0.01-02  (gr.  W). 


LYCOPUS.— Bugleweed. 

Lycope  de  Virginie,  Fr. ; Virginischer  Wolfsfuss,  G. 

The  herb  of  Lycopus  virginicus,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Labiatas,  Satureiese. 

Origin. — Bugleweed  is  a perennial  herb  growing  in  woods  and  shady  moist  places  in 
Canada  and  in  the  United  States  southward  to  South  Carolina.  It  flowers  from  July  to 
September. 

Description. — The  stem  is  nearly  smooth,  about  30-45  Cm.  (12  to  18  inches)  high, 
obtusely  quadrangular,  and  with  slender  runners  at  the  base ; the  leaves  are  opposite, 
short-petioled,  elliptic-lanceolate,  toothed,  wedge-shaped,  and  entire  at  the  base,  and 
glandular-punctate  beneath ; the  flowers  are  small,  in  axillary  clusters,  purplish,  and 
have  a calyx  with  four  ovate  and  bluntish  but  pointless  teeth.  The  herb  has  a some- 
what mint-like  odor  and  a bitter  and  slightly  aromatic  taste. 

Constituents. — The  plant  has  most  likely  the  general  constituents  of  the  Labiatae, 
prominent  among  which  is  volatile  oil,  some  resin,  and  a little  tannin  ; in  this  case  per- 
haps also  a bitter  principle.  We  know  of  no  analysis  of  the  plant. 

Lycopus  europ^eus,  Linne  (Water  horehound,  E. ; Lycope  d’Europe,  Fr. ; Wasser- 
andorn,  6r.),  has  been  used  in  Europe  as  Herba  marrubii  aquatici.  It  is  indigenous  to 
Europe  and  North  America,  and  resembles  the  bugleweed,  being  mainly  distinguished  by 
the  often  taller,  sharply  four-angled  stem,  the  more  deeply  and  sinuate-toothed,  at  the 
base  often  pinnatifid,  leaves,  and  the  five  triangular,  sharp-pointed  calyx-teeth.  It  varies 
somewhat  in  its  foliage,  and  is  not  unfrequently  collected  with  the  preceding. 


L YTHR  UM.—MA  CIS. 


1003 


Action  and  Uses. — Bugleweed  is  reputed  to  be  astringent  and  sedative,  to 
reduce  the  frequency  of  the  pulse,  to  arrest  haemorrhage  from  the  lungs,  to  allay  cough- 
ing, and  to  be  a mild  narcotic.  It  has  been  compared  with  digitalis.  As  more  than 
half  a century  has  elapsed  since  such  virtues  were  first  ascribed  to  it,  and  it  still  con- 
tinues to  be  neglected  and  generally  unknown,  it  may  be  inferred  that  its  supposed 
powers  were  in  a great  part  imaginary.  It  may  be  used  in  an  infusion  made  with  an 
ounce  of  the  herb  in  a pint  Gm.  16  in  Gm.  500  of  boiling  water.  This  quantity  may 
be  taken  in  a day.  In  1886  it  was  stated  that  a decoction  of  bugleweed  prevented  the 
effects  of  the  bites  or  stings  of  venomous  serpents  and  insects  {Jour.  Am.  Med.  Assoc., 
viii.  40). 

L.  europaeus  is  said  to  have  been  used  from  time  immemorial  by  the  Piedmontese  as  a 
remedy  for  intermittent  fever.  It  has  also  been  employed  to  arrest  passive  haemorrhages 
and  mucous  discharges. 

LYTHRUM. — Loosestrife. 

Herba  salicariae. — Purple  willow-herb , E. ; Salicaire , Fr.  ; Rotlier  Weiderich,  G. 

Lythrum  Salicaria,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Lythracese. 

Origin  and  Description. — Loosestrife  is  a tall  perennial  downy  herb,  indigenous 
to  Europe  and  Asia,  naturalized  in  moist  places  from  New  England  northeastward,  and  is 
sometimes  cultivated  in  gardens.  It  flowers  in  July  and  August.  The  leaves  are  oppo- 
site or  whorled  in  threes,  about  75  Mm.  (3  inches)  long,  lanceolate,  sessile,  clasping  with 
the  heart-shaped  base.  The  flowers  are  apparently  whorled,  form  a long,  interrupted, 
wand-like  spike,  and  have  six  showy  purple  or  sometimes  whitish  petals  and  twelve 
stamens.  The  herb  has  a mucilaginous,  mildly  astringent  taste.  The  blackish-brown, 
branching,  and  fibrous  root  is  astringent.  The  principal  constituents  of  loosestrife  are 
mucilage  and  tannin. 

Allied  Plants. — Lythrum  alatum,  Pursh,  is  a smooth  perennial,  has  smaller  purple  flowers 
with  six  stamens,  and  is  characterized  by  the  marginal  angles  of  the  branches ; it  grows  in 
North  America,  and  with  the  allied  forms  L.  lanceolatum,  Elliott , and  L.  album,  Kunth , growing 
in  Texas,  is  used  in  Mexico  in. cataplasms  as  yerba  del  cancer. 

Cuphea  viscosissima,  Jacquin  (Meehan,  Nat.  Flowers , i.  p.  41),  is  said  to  be  useful  in  diar- 
rhoea. It  grows  in  dry  fields  southwestward  to  Louisiana,  and  is  a viscidly-hairy  annual,  about 
50  Cm.  (20  inches)  high,  with  opposite  petiolate  ovate-lanceolate  leaves,  a somewhat  inflated 
tubular  six-toothed  calyx,  six  unequal  bluish  purple  petals,  and  twelve  included  stamens.  The 
Mexican  atlanchana , C.  lanceolata,  Kunth , is  employed  in  similar  complaints. 

The  genus  is  mostly  confined  to  tropical  America,  and  several  species  are  cultivated  for  orna- 
ment, among  which  the  so-called  cigar-plant  (C.  platvcentra,  Kunth),  with  its  scarlet-red  tubular 
calyx,  is  best  known.  The  leaves  and  branches  of  C.  antisyphilitica,  Kunth,  and  C.  microphylla, 
Kunth , are  used  in  South  America  in  syphilitic  complaints. 

Action  and  Uses. — Loosestrife  unites  in  itself  demulcent  and  astringent  qualities. 
It  has  been  much  used  in  Europe  in  chronic  diarrhoea  and  dysentery,  leucorrhoea,  blenor- 
rhcea,  and  passive  haemorrhages,  and  for  various  local  cutaneous  irritations.  It  is  gen- 
erally given  in  a decoction  prepared  with  Gm.  32  in  Gm.  500  (5 i in  Oi)  of  water  and  in 
doses  of  Gm.  32—64  (Sj— ij)- 

An  infusion  is,  however,  preferable  to  the  decoction,  and  may  be  made  with  the  leaves 
and  stems  Gm.  15  to  Gm.  500  (gss  in  Oj).  (Campardon,  Bull,  de  therap .,  cv.,  337). 

MAOIS,  Z7,  S. ; Fr.  Cod.,  F.  A.— Mace. 

AriUus  myristicae. — Fleur  de  muscade,  Fr. ; MusJcatbliithe , G.  ; Macias,  Sp. 

The  arillus  of  the  fruit  of  Myristica  fragrans,  Houttuyn. 

Nat.  Ord. — Myristicaceae. 

Origin. — (See  Myristica.)  When  the  nutmeg  is  gathered,  the  arillus,  which  envel- 
ops the  seed,  is  cut  off  and  dried  in  the  sun,  whereby  its  bright  red  color  is  changed  to 
brownish-orange.  With  the  view  of  its  better  preservation  it  is  often  sprinkled  with  sea- 
water. It  is  principally  obtained  from  the  Banda  Islands. 

Description. — Mace  is  about  25  Mm.  (1  inch)  or  more  long,  smooth,  flat,  about 
2 Mm.  (-jL  inch)  thick  at  the  base,  thinner  above,  longitudinally  slit  into  irregular,  nar- 
row, and  somewhat  branching  bands  of  a brownish-orange  and  nearly  dull  color,  some- 
what translucent,  and  fatty  when  pressed  or  scratched.  It  breaks  readily  with  a short 
fracture,  but  cannot  be  triturated  to  powder  on  account  of  the  oil.  It  has  a very  agree- 
able aromatic  odor,  closely  analogous  to  that  of  nutmeg,  and  a warm  aromatic  taste. 


1004 


MAGNESIA. 


Constituents. — The  most  important  constituent  is  the  volatile  oil  (Oleum  macidis,  • 
P.  6r.),  which  is  present  to  the  amount  of  about  8 per  cent.,  but  occasionally  as  much  as 
17  per  cent,  may  be  obtained  (JPharmacogr aphid).  Schacht  (1862)  found  it  to  consist 
mainly  of  a hydrocarbon,  C10H16,  called  macene , which  yields  a crystallized  compound 
with  hydrochloric  acid  gas,  and  appears  to  be  related  to,  and  by  Roller  (1865)  considered 
identical  with,  the  myristicene  of  oil  of  nutmeg.  The  oxygenated  portion  of  the  volatile 
oil  is  still  less  known  than  the  hydrocarbon.  Henry  (1824)  found  red  fat  soluble,  and 
yellow  fat  insoluble,  in  alcohol,  but  the  24.5  per  cent,  residue  obtained  by  Fliickiger 
(Pharmacographia ) with  boiling  ether  and  drying  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  appeared  to  have 
consisted  solely  of  resin  and  semi-resinified  volatile  oil.  The  same  author  obtained 
with  alcohol  1.04  per  cent,  of  uncrystallizable  sugar,  and  with  hot  water  1.8  per  cent,  of 
a body  which  turned  blue,  and  after  drying  reddish-violet,  with  iodine,  and  is  probably 
intermediate  between  starch  and  mucilage. 

Adulterations  are  not  likely  to  be  met  with,  at  least  not  of  the  unpowdered  mace. 
The  mace  of  the  wild  nutmeg  (M.  fatua)  is  of  a darker  red  color,  less  divided  at  the  base, 
with  more  slender  bands,  and  destitute  of  the  grateful  fragrance  and  taste  of  true  mace. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparation. — Tinctura  macidis.  Digest  1 part  of  mace 
with  5 parts  of  alcohol,  and  filter. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  operation  of  mace  appears  to  be  the  same  as  that  of  nut- 
meg, and  there  is  reason  to  believe  that  an  excessive  dose  of  it  may  induce  dangerous 
narcotism.  It  is  used  to  impart  an  aromatic  taste  to  medicines,  but  more  commonly  as  a 
condiment  for  flavoring  food  and  promoting  its  digestion. 

MAGNESIA,  U.  S.,  Br.— Magnesia. 

Magnesia  usta , P.  G. ; Magnesia  calcinata. — Calcined  magnesia , E. ; Magnesie , Magnesie 
calcinee,  Fr.  ; Gebrannte  Magnesia G. 

Formula  MgO.  Molecular  weight  40.26. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Magnesium  Carbonate  4 ounces.  Put  it  into  a Cornish  or 
Hessian  crucible  closed  loosely  by  a lid,  and  expose  it  to  a low  red  heat  until  a small 
quantity,  taken  from  the  centre  of  the  crucible  when  it  has  cooled  and  dropped  into  diluted 
sulphuric  acid,  causes  no  effervescence. — Br. 

The  Br.  Ph.  recognizes  two  varieties  of  magnesia — the  heavy  as  Magnesia  ponderosa , 
made  from  the  heavy  magnesium  carbonate  by  the  process  just  given,  and  Magnesia  levis 
or  light  magnesia , which  is  made  in  precisely  the  same  manner  from  the  light  magnesium 
carbonate.  In  the  United  States  both  kinds  are  extensively  used,  but  when  the  heavy 
variety  is  desired  it  is  usually  designated  in  prescriptions  as  Magnesia  ponderosa , under 
which  title  it  has  been  admitted  into  the  present  Pharmacopoeia,  while  the  light  magnesia 
is  designated  as  Magnesia.  Nearly  9000  pounds  of  calcined  magnesia  were  imported  into 
the  United  States  in  1876,  and  afterward  about  20,000  pounds  annually. 

The  official  magnesium  carbonate  consists  of  magnesium  carbonate  and  hydroxide. 
On  heating  it,  water  and  carbon  dioxide  are  given  off  and  magnesium  oxide  remains 
behind;  4(MgC03).Mg(0H)2.5H20  yields  5Mg0-f4C02-f  6H20.  The  magnesium  carbo- 
nate is  pressed  somewhat  firmly  into  a crucible,  and  this  is  placed  in  a suitable  furnace, 
loosely  covered  with  a lid  to  prevent  the  product  from  becomming  contaminated  with 
ashes  and  other  impurities,  and  then  heated  to  dull  redness.  The  expulsion  of  the  water 
and  carbon  dioxide  keeps  the  surface  of  the  powder  continually  in  motion,  and  there  is 
no  necessity  of  testing  it  as  long  as  that  motion  is  kept  up  ; when  the  motion  ceases  a 
small  quantity  of  the  powder  is  taken  from  beneath  the  surface  and  near  the  centre, 
mixed  with  sufficient  water  to  displace  the  air,  and  then  poured  into  an  excess  of  dilute 
sulphuric  acid.  If  no  evolution  of  carbon  dioxide  takes  place,  the  product  is  finished, 
and  may  be  dipped  out  with  a ladle,  and  the  crucible  filled  with  a fresh  portion  of  mag- 
nesium carbonate  without  removing  it  from  the  furnace.  Made  by  the  process  formerly 
recommended  in  the  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia,  a large  and  rather  flat  earthen  vessel  is 
used,  to  allow  of  the  magnesia  being  stirred  continuously,  in  which  case  the  heat  may  be 
raised  to  full  redness ; but  it  should  never  be  raised  to  that  degree  if  the  stirring  is 
omitted,  because  the  magnesia  would  become  dense  and  granular,  and  with  difficulty 
soluble  in  dilute  acids.  The  yield  is  between  40  and  43  per  cent,  of  the  weight  of  the 
magnesium  carbonate.  . j 

Properties. — The  two  varieties  of  magnesia  have  the  same  composition  and  chemical 
properties,  and  differ  from  each  other  only  in  the  degree  of  aggregation  of  the  mole- 
cules. Heavy  magnesia  is  more  readily  miscible  with  water  than  the  light  kind,  and,  like 


MA  GNESIA. 


1005 


the  latter,  should  remain  suspended  in  the  water  for  some  time,  and  settle  gradually. 
Should  it  subside  very  rapidly,  the  probability  is  that  it  was  exposed  to  too  high  a degree 
of  heat.  It  may  be  obtained  from  the  light  variety  by  triturating  the  latter  for  some 
time  in  the  presence  of  strong  alcohol,  drying,  and  rubbing  to  powder.  Magnesia  is  a 
white,  very  fine  powder,  without  odor,  and  of  an  earthy,  but  destitute  of  a saline,  taste. 
Exposed  to  a high  heat,  it  becomes  more  compact,  but  does  not  fuse  except  before  the 
oxyhydrogen  blowpipe.  According  to  Fresenius,  it  requires  55,000  parts  of  water  for 
solution,  but  the  liquid,  like  the  moistened  magnesia,  has  a distinct  alkaline  reaction.  Its 
specific  gravity  varies  between  2.3  and  3.3.  When  mixed  with  water  it  unites  with  it 
forming  a hydroxide  having  the  composition  Mg(OH)2,  and  when  heated  losing  31  per  cent, 
of  its  weight.  Exposed  to  the  atmosphere,  a similar  change  takes  place,  but  carbon 
dioxide  is  also  absorbed  and  a corresponding  quantity  of  oxycarbonate  is  formed.  It 
should  therefore  be  preserved  in  well-stoppered  bottles.  t:  On  stirring  1 part  of  magnesia 
with  15  parts  of  water  in  a breaker,  and  allowing  the  mixture  to  stand  for  about  half  an 
hour,  it  will  form  a gelatinous  mass  of  sufficient  firmness  to  prevent  it  from  falling  out 
when  the  glass  is  inverted.” — U S. 

Tests. — “A  filtered  solution  of  magnesia  in  diluted  sulphuric  acid,  mixed  with  ammo- 
nium chloride  test-solution  and  an  excess  of  ammonia-water,  yields,  with  sodium  phos- 
phate test-solution,  a white,  crystalline  precipitate.  If  a mixture  of  0.2  Gm.  of  mag- 
nesia with  10  Cc.  of  water  be  heated  to  boiling,  and,  after  cooling,  5 Cc.  of  the  super- 
natant liquid  be  filtered  off,  this  filtrate  should  not  have  more  than  a faintly  alkaline 
reaction  to  litmus-paper,  and,  when  evaporated  to  dryness,  should  not  leave  more  than  a 
very  slight  residue  (limit  of  foreign  soluble  salts).  The  magnesia  mixed  with  water 
remaining  from  the  preceding  test,  when  poured  into  5 Cc.  of  acetic  acid,  should  dissolve 
without  the  evolution  of  more  than  a few  isolated  gas-bubbles  (limit  of  carbonate).  This 
latter  solution,  when  filtered,  should  not  afford  more  than  a slight  opalescence  with  ammo- 
nium oxalate  test-solution  (limit  of  calcium),  or  with  barium  chloride  test-solution  (limit 
of  sulphate),  or,  after  the  addition  of  a few  drops  of  nitric  acid,  with  silver  nitrate  test- 
solution  (limit  of  chloride).  If  0.4  Gm.  of  magnesia  be  dissolved  in  .10  Cc.  of  diluted 
hydrochloric  acid,  the  solution  should  be  colorless,  and  should  not  be  affected  by  hydro- 
gen sulphide  test-solution,  nor,  after  the  addition  of  a slight  excess  of  ammonia-water, 
should  it  be  immediately  affected  by  ammonium  sulphide  test-solution  (absence  of  metal- 
lic impurities).  If  magnesia  be  exposed  to  a low  red  heat  in  a porcelain  crucible,  it 
should  not  lose  more  than  5 per  cent,  of  its  weight  (limit  of  water  of  hydration).” — U.  S. 

Several  proprietary  articles  consisting  of  heavy  magnesia  are  occasionally  met  with  ; 
this  magnesia  is  generally  characterized  by  freedom  from  grittiness  and  ready  miscibility 
with  water,  but  is  not  superior  to  a dense  magnesia  obtainable  by  careful  manipulation 
from  a properly-prepared  magnesium  carbonate. 

Magnesium. — The  metal  magnesium  is  widely  distributed,  but  is  less  abundant  than 
calcium  ; it  is  found  as  silicate  in  meerschaum,  olivine , mica , serpentine , and  other  min- 
erals ; as  chloride  in  sea-water  and  the  waters  of  saline  springs  ; and  as  carbonate  in  most 
spring  and  mineral  waters,  in  magnesite , and  in  dolomite  or  magnesian  limestone.  Black 
(1755)  first  proved  magnesia  to  be  distinct  from  lime,  and  Davy  (1808)  isolated  the 
metal,  which  is  now  generally  prepared  by  modifications  of  the  process  elaborated  by  St. 
Claire-Deville  and  Caron  (1856),  by  heating  sodium  with  anhydrous  magnesium  chloride; 
the  resulting  sodium  chloride  is  dissolved  by  water,  and  the  magnesium  left  behind  in  the 
form  of  a gray  powder,  which  is  fused  and  moulded  as  desired.  It  is  a silver-white  metal, 
of  a strong  metallic  lustre,  malleable,  fusing  at  a red  and  volatilizing  at  a white  heat,  but 
burning  with  a bright  white  light  when  held  in  the  flame  of  a gasjet.  Its  density  is  only 
1.78  ; it  is  not  altered  in  dry  air  and  but  slightly  tarnished  in  a damp  atmosphere.  Soap- 
stone or  French  chalk  is  a double  silicate  of  magnesium  and  aluminum. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  action  of  magnesia  and  of  its  carbonates  consists  partly 
in  neutralizing  the  acid  in  the  alimentary  canal,  and  partly  in  rendering  acid  secretions, 
as  the  urine,  either  neutral  or  alkaline.  If  a sufficient  quantity  of  acid  exists  in  the 
stomach  or  is  attracted  thither  by  the  magnesia,  a neutral  purgative  salt  is  formed  ; but 
in  default  of  such  a combination  the  magnesia  may  pass  into  the  intestine  unchanged  in 
part,  and  if  it  be  taken  habitually  may  accumulate  there  and  form  concretions  large 
enough  to  obstruct  the  bowel  ( Bull . et  Mem.  de  la  Soc.  de  Therap .,  1879,  p.  77). 

Magnesia  has  the  advantage  over  other  laxatives  in  being  almost  tasteless  and  in  rarely 
causing  nausea  or  colic.  It  produces  feculent  rather  than  watery  stools,  which  are  remark- 
able for  their  slight  degree  of  fetor.  It  is  slower  than  salines  in  its  operation,  but  nearly 
as  thorough.  Its  use  is  distinctly  indicated  in  whatever  condition  is  attended  with 


1006 


MAGNESII  CARBON  AS. 


gastro-intestinal  acidity,  witli  heartburn , sour  eructations , and  flatulence.  It  has  even 
arrested  the  vomiting  of  'pregnancy  when  the  liquid  rejected  was  acid.  Although  it  cor- 
rects gastric  acidity,  it  does  not  remove  the  cause  of  that  symptom,  for  which  purpose 
aromatics  and  bitter  tonics  are  usually  required.  It  is  ordinarily  associated  with  rhubarb 
in  the  treatment  of  dyspeptic  diarrhoea , especially  in  children,  and  is  a very  appropriate 
laxative  in  hsemorrhoidal  cases  attended  with  constipation.  It  is  useful  in  the  aphthous 
affections  of  the  mouth  which  attend  infantile  diarrhoea.  In  gout  and  its  allied  disorders 
its  antacid  qualities  render  it  appropriate ; the  following  formula  is  commonly  employed : 
It.  Magnesii  sulpli.  5j-ij  ; Aquae  menthae  virid.  f^x  ; Yin.  colchici  seminis,  Syrup,  simpl. 
aa  f 3j  ; Magnesiae  3ij- — M.  S. — From  1 to  3 tablespoonfuls  every  2 hours  until  from 
four  to  six  stools  are  produced  in  the  24  hours.  In  infantile  colic  the  following  carmina- 
tive mixture  is  used  : It.  Magnesiae  gr.  xxx  ; Tinct.  asafoetidae  gtt.  xl ; Tinct.  opii  gtt.  xx  ; 
Sacch.  alb.  gr.  lx;  Aquae  f5j. — M.  S. — 20  drops  and  upward  every  hour  until  relief 
occurs.  Magnesia  is  appropriate,  as  already  stated,  in  cases  of  uric  acid  gravel , but  is 
probably  less  so  than  the  carbonates  of  sodium  and  potassium ; but  in  such  cases,  when 
marked  by  gastric  acidity,  it  should  not  be  neglected.  Like  its  carbonate,  magnesia  taken 
internally  will  sometimes  entirely  remove  marts.  Dujardin-Beaumetz  has  reported  a strik- 
ing example  of  the  efficacy  of  this  treatment  ( Bull . de  therap .,  civ.  232). 

As  a purgative  the  dose  of  magnesia  is  about  Gm.  3 (gr.  xl)  and  Gm.  0.30  (gr.  iv)  for 
infants.  As  an  antacid  it  may  be  taken  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.60  (gr.  x)  after  meals,  sus- 
pended in  water.  Mixture  with  milk,  which  is  usual  to  disguise  its  taste,  renders  its 
operations  slower. 

The  medicinal  action  and  uses  of  Magnesia  ponderosa  are  identical  with  those  of 
magnesia. 


MAGNESII  CARBONAS,  U,  S. — Magnesium  Carbonate. 

Magnesiae  carhonas , Magnesium  carbonicum , P.  G. ; Magnesia,  alba , Magnesia  hydrico- 
carbonica , Carbonicas  magnesicus. — Carbonate  of  Magnesia , E.  ; Carbonate  de  magnesie , 
Magnesie  blanche , Fr. ; Magnesiumkarbonat , Weisse  Magnesia.  G. 

Formula  4(MgC03).Mg(0H)2.5H20.  Molecular  weight  484.62. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Magnesium  Sulphate  10  ounces  ; Sodium  Carbonate  12 
ounces  ; Boiling  Distilled  Water  a sufficiency.  Dissolve  the  magnesium  sulphate  and 
the  sodium  carbonate  each  in  a pint  of  the  water,  mix  the  two  solutions,  and  evaporate 
the  whole  to  perfect  dryness  by  means  of  a sand-bath.  Digest  the  residue  for  half  an 
hour  with  2 pints  of  the  water,  and,  having  collected  the  insoluble  matter  on  a calico 
filter,  wash  it  repeatedly  with  distilled  water  until  the  washings  cease  to  give  a precipi- 
tate with  barium  chloride.  Finally,  dry  the  product  at  a temperature  not  exceeding 
212°  F. — Br. 

This  process  yields  Magnesii  carbonas  ponderosa,  Br. ; if  the  two  solutions  are  mixed 
and  then  boiled  for  ten  or  fifteen  minutes,  but  not  evaporated,  the  precipitate  will  be 
more  bulky,  and  after  washing  and  drying  constitutes  the  Magnesii  carbonas  levis  or  light 
magnesium  carbonate  of  the  British  Pharmacopoeia. 

On  mixing  cold  solutions  of  magnesium  sulphate  and  sodium  carbonate  a white  volu- 
minous precipitate  results,  which  in  the  course  of  several  days  is  gradually  converted 
into  the  compound  MgC03.3H20,  identical  with  that  which  often  crystallizes  from  the 
effervescing  solution  of  magnesia  (see  page  971)  ; but  when  heat  is  applied  carbon  diox- 
ide is  given  off,  and  the  insoluble  portion  remaining  is  a hydrocarbonate,  the  composition 
of  which  varies  somewhat,  a larger  amount  af  carbon  dioxide  being  given  off  if  the  heat 
be  continued ; and  the  heavy  magnesium  carbonate  obtained  as  described  above  has 
probably  the  formula  determined  by  Berzelius,  3MgC03.Mg(0H)2.3H20;  which  compound 
on  ignition  would  yield  nearly  44  per  cent,  of  magnesia,  MgO,  as  required  by  the  British 
Pharmacopoeia.  Light  magnesium  carbonate  yields  less  (between  40.3  and  41.7  per  cent.) 
magnesia,  according  to  Otto  and  Laake.  The  formula  3MgC03.Mg(0H)2.4H20  requires 
41.9  per  cent.  MgO.  A compound  of  the  composition  4MgC03.Mg(0H)2-5H20  would 
yield  41.3,  and  with  an  additional  H20  only  40  per  cent.  MgO.  Magnesium  carbonate 
may  be  obtained  from  the  mother-liquors  or  bittern  of  salt-works,  and  is  prepared  on  an 
extensive  scale  in  England  from  magnesian  limestone  by  treating  it  in  the  state  of  powder 
with  cold  water  and  carbon  dioxide  under  a pressure  of  five  or  six  atmospheres  ; magnesium 
bicarbonate  is  first  dissolved,  removed  from  the  calcium  salt,  and  by  boiling  converted 
into  the  official  carbonate.  The  importation  of  magnesium  carbonate  into  the  United 


M AGNES II  CITRAS  EFFER VESCENS. 


1007 


States  increased  from  134,000  pounds  in  1867  to  357,447  in  1878,  but  since  that  time 
has  been  less. 

Properties. — Besides  the  slight  difference  in  composition  just  referred  to,  the  heavy 
and  light  magnesium  carbonates  differ  only  in  the  degree  of  aggregation  of  their  rnole- 
cules.  the  former  being  slightly  glandular,  the  latter  a smooth  and  less  dense  powder,  both 
bein"  inodorous  and  of  a slight  earthy  taste.  It  is  almost  insoluble  in  water,  requiring, 
according  to  Fyfe,  2500  parts  of  cold  and  9000  parts  of  boiling  water  for  solution,  and 
when  it  is  moistened  with  water  and  applied  to  turmeric-paper  a brown  color  is  gradually 
produced.  When  heated  to  dull  redness  water  and  carbon  dioxide  are  given  off,  and 
magnesia  remains.  It  dissolves  with  copious  effervescence  in  dilute  sulphuric,  hydro- 
chloric, and  other  acids,  and  the  solutions  have  the  chemical  behavior  of  magnesium  salts. 

Tests. — Magnesium  carbonate  may  be  contaminated  with  calcium  compounds,  and 
from  incomplete  washing  also  with  the  acidulous  radicals  contained  in  the  mother-liquor 
more  particularly  with  chlorides,  bromides,  and  sulphates.  These  impurities  are  detected 
by  dissolving  the  carbonate  in  dilute  nitric  acid,  and  this  solution  should  not  be  precipi- 
tated by  silver  nitrate  (chloride  and  bromide)  or  barium  nitrate  (sulphate)  ; neutralized 
with  ammonia,  it  should  not  be  precipitated  by  ammonium  oxalate  (calcium).  On  the 
addition  of  ammonia  or  ammonium  carbonate  a white  precipitate  is  produced,  which 
should  be  completely  soluble  in  an  excess  of  the  precipitant  and  in  ammonium  chloride 
(an  insoluble  portion  would  indicate  alumina),  and  the  ammoniacal  solution  should  not 
yield  a white  precipitate  with  hydrogen  sulphide  (zinc). 

The  following  tests  have  been  adopted  by  the  United  States  and  German  Pharmaco- 
poeias : Distilled  water,  boiled  with  the  salt,  and  after  filtration  evaporated  to  dryness, 
should  not  have  more  than  a trace  of  a fixed  residue.  The  salt  should  be  soluble  in 
diluted  hydrochloric  acid  to  a colorless  liquid.  A 2 per  cent,  solution  of  the  salt 
prepared  with  the  aid  of  acetic  acid  should  not  be  affected  by  hydrogen  sulphide  (P.  G.). 
Another  portion  of  the  2 per  cent,  solution  should  not  at  once  (within  two  minutes, 
P.  G .)  be  rendered  more  than  faintly  opalescent  by  test-solution  of  barium  nitrate 
(limit  of  sulphate)  of  silver  nitrate  (limit  of  chloride),  or  of  ammonium  oxalate  (limit 
of  calcium).  “ If  0.4  Gm.  of  the  salt  be  dissolved  in  5 Cc.  of  diluted  hydrochloric  acid, 
the  solution  should  be  colorless,  and  should  not  be  affected  by  hydrogen  sulphide  test- 
solution,  nor, after  the  addition  of  an  excess  of  ammonia-water,  should  it  be  immediately 
affected  by  ammonium  sulphide  test-solution  (absence  of  metallic  impurities).  1.0  Gm. 
of  the  salt  should  leave,  on  ignition,  not  less  than  0.4  Gm.  of  residue.” — U.  S. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  carbonate  is  less  efficient  than  magnesia  itself,  but  its  action 
and  uses  are  the  same.  It  is  said  to  remove  warts  from  the  skin,  when  taken  night  and 
morning  in  teaspoonful  doses  and  continued  for  several  weeks.  Several  important  wit- 
nesses to  the  apparent  truth  of  this  statement  might  now  be  cited  ( Phila . Med.  Times , 
xvii.  125),  and  to  theirs  we  may  add  our  own  testimony. 

Magnesium  carbonate  may  be  given  as  a laxative  in  doses  of  Gm.  2-8  (gr.  xxx- 
cxx) ; as  an  an  acid  Gm.  0.30-1.30  (gr.  v-xx)  may  be  taken  after  meals.  It  may  be 
agreeably  administered  in  carbonic  acid  water. 

MAGNESH  CITRAS  EFFERVESCENS,  V.  Effervescent  Magne- 
sium Citrate. 

Magnesium  citricum  effervescens , P.  G. — Limonade  seche  au  citrate  de  magnesie , Fr. ; 
Brausemagnesia , Magnesium-citrat  in  Kornern , G. 

Preparation. — Magnesium  Carbonate  10  Gm. ; Citric  Acid  46  Gm. ; Sodium  Bicar- 
bonate 34  Gm. ; Sugar  in  No.  60  powder,  8 Gm.  ; Alcohol,  Distilled  Water,  each  a suffi- 
cient quantity.  Mix  the  magnesium  carbonate  intimately  with  30  Gm.  of  citric  acid,  and 
4 Cc.  of  distilled  water,  so  as  to  make  a thick  paste ; dry  this  at  a temperature  not 
exceeding  30°  C.  (86°  F.),  and  reduce  it  to  a fine  powder.  Then  mix  it  intimately  with 
the  sugar,  the  sodium  bicarbonate,  and  the  'remainder  of  the  citric  acid,  previously 
reduced  to  a very  fine  powder.  Dampen  the  mass  with  a sufficient  quantity  of  alcohol, 
and  rub  it  through  a No.  6,  tinned-iron  sieve,  to  form  a coarse  granular  powder.  Lastly, 
dry  it  in  a moderately  warm  place,  and  keep  in  well-closed  bottles. — U.  S. 

To  prepare  1 pound  of  effervescent  magnesium  citrate  the  following  quantities  should 
be  used:  Magnesium  carbonate  714  grains;  citric  acid  7 av.  ozs.  and  223  grains;  sodium 
bicarbonate  5 av.  ozs.  and  241  grains ; sugar,  in  fine  powder,  572  grains ; 4 av.  ozs.  and 
390  grains  of  the  citric  acid  should  be  used  together  with  5 drachms  of  distilled  water 
to  form  the  thick  paste  of  acid  magnesium  citrate. 


1008 


M AGNESI!  SULPHAS. 


The  addition  of  alcohol  to  the  mixed  powder  must  be  cautiously  made,  only  sufficient 
being  used  to  enable  the  operator  to  form  a mass  which  will  permit  of  being  rubbed 
through  the  meshes  of  the  sieve.  The  subsequent  drying  of  the  granules  must  also 
be  conducted  with  care,  as  the  use  of  too  high  a heat  will  cause  effervescence  to  take 
place  and  thus  spoil  the  granular  condition  of  the  salt. 

All  granular  effervescent  salts  containing  sugar  are  apt  to  become  discolored  if  made 
by  the  process  recommended  by  the  British  Pharmacopoeia,  unless  the  heat  necessary  be 
carefully  controlled. 

The  formula  of  the  German  Pharmacopoeia  is  like  the  preceding.  The  French  Codex 
uses  calcined  magnesia  65,  magnesium  carbonate  60,  citric  acid  300,  and  sugar  600 
parts. 

The  first  step  is  the  preparation  at  as  low  a temperature  as  possible  of  an  acid  magne- 
sium citrate,  a little  less  than  one-half  the  citric  acid  ordered  for  this  manipulation  being 
sufficient  for  the  formation  of  the  normal  salt.  The  remaining  operation  has  for  its 
object  the  incorporation  with  this  salt  of  sodium  bicarbonate  and  citric  acid  in  such  a 
manner  as  to  avoid  mutual  decomposition,  which  is  designed  to  take  place  only  when  the 
mixture  is  to  be  used  and  is  stirred  with  water.  Sieves  of  different  degrees  of  fineness 
are  usually  used,  so  as  to  obtain  granules  nearly  uniform  in  size. 

Properties. — This  preparation  forms  white  granules  or  a white  granular  inodorous 
powder  having  an  acid  reaction  and  a pleasantly  saline  and  mildly  acidulous  refreshing 
taste.  On  exposure  to  air  it  attracts  moisture,  resulting  in  the  decomposition  of  the 
bicarbonate  and  the  evolution  of  carbon  dioxide,  and  afterwards  becomes  damp  without, 
however,  completely  deliquescing.  It  is  nearly  insoluble,  or  rather  only  partly  soluble, 
in  alcohol,  but  dissolves  slowly  and  with  copious,  long-continued  but  not  vehement  effer- 
vescence in  2 parts  of  water  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  ; this  solution  is  rarely  perfectly  clear, 
but  usually  is  more  or  less  opalescent  from  traces  of  impurities  contained  in  the  magne- 
sium carbonate,  and  in  the  course  of  several  days  deposits  crystals  of  magnesium  citrate. 
Boiling  water  dissolves  more  rapidly  a larger  amount  of  the  granules,  and  this  solution 
separates  on  cooling  a portion  of  the  magnesium  citrate  in  crystals.  The  total  amonnt 
of  citric  acid  ordered  by  the  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia  is  somewhat  in  excess  (about  3.28  Gm.) 
of  that  required  for  the  production  of  normal  salts  ; this  renders  the  taste  pleasantly 
acidulous  and  the  solution  more  permanent.  The  aqueous  solution  shows  the  reactions 
of  citric  acid  and  of  magnesium  salts ; on  boiling  with  test  solution  of  calcium  chloride 
a white  precipitate  is  produced,  and  the  cold  solution,  on  being  rendered  alkaline  with 
ammonia-water,  yields  with  test  solution  of  sodium  or  ammonium  phosphate  a white  pre- 
cipitate which  is  readily  soluble  in  acetic  acid. 

Tests. — “ The  saturated  aqueous  solution  of  the  salt,  when  mixed  with  a saturated 
solution  of  potassium  acetate  and  some  acetic  acid,  should  not  yield  a white  crystal- 
line precipitate  (absence  of  tartrate).” — U.  S.  A solution  of  1 Gm.  of  the  granules, 
on  being  treated  with  ammonia-water  and  ammonium  phosphate,  should  yield  a precipi- 
tate, which,  after  having  been  thoroughly  washed  with  diluted  ammonia-water,  then 
dried,  and  ignited  in  a porcelain  crucible,  should  leave  a white  residue  of  magnesium 
pyrophosphate  weighing  not  less  than  1.22  Gm.,  showing  the  presence  of  at  least  4.4  per 
cent,  of  MgO. 

Uses. — In  the  dose  of  from  Gm.  8-30  (gr-  cxx-^j)  this  compound  forms  an  agreeable 
laxative  in  mild  febrile  disorders. 

MAGNESII  SULPHAS,  77.  S.,  2fr\— Magnesium  Sulphate. 

Magnesise  sulphas , Br. ; Magnesium  sulfuricum , P.  G.  ; Sal  am  arum,  Sal  Epsom  ense , 
Sal  anglicum , Sal  Sedlicense,  Sulfas  magnesicus. — Sidphate  of  magnesia , Epsom  salt,  E. ; 
Sulfate  de  magnesie , Sel  7’ Epsom,  Sel  de  Sedlitz,  Sel  amer , Fr.  ; Magnesmmsulfat,  Bitter- 
salz , Schwefelsaure  Magnesia , G. 

Formula  MgS04.7H20.  Molecular  weight  245.84. 

Origin  and  Preparation. — Magnesium  sulphate  is  contained  in  sea-water  and 
in  the  waters  of  many  mineral  springs,  which  thereby  acquire  a bitter  taste.  The  Crab 
Orchard  salt  of  Kentucky  is  the  same  salt  in  an  impure  state,  and,  as  analyzed  by  J-  T. 
Yiley  (1871),  contains  about  65  per  cent,  of  magnesium  sulphate  after  having  been  dried 
at  120°C.  It  probably  results  from  the  mutual  decomposition  of  gypsum  and  magnesium 
limestone,  and  is  obtained  by  evaporating  the  water  which  collects  in  wells  dug  in  the 
ground.  The  pure  salt  is  made  on  the  large  scale  from  magnesite,  which  is  principally 
MgC03,  by  dissolving  it  in  dilute  sulphuric  acid  and  crystallizing ; large  quantities  of 


MAGNESII  SULPHAS. 


1009 


Fig.  179. 


Crystal  of  Magnesium 
Sulphate. 


the  salt  are  made  by  various  processes  from  magnesian  limestone,  and  more  recently  it  is 
extensively  obtained  at  the  Stassfurt  salt-works,  principally  from  the  mineral  kieserite , 
which  is  MgS04  combined  with  varying  quantities  of  water,  and  in  its  natural  state  as 
insoluble  as  gypsum. 

Properties. — As  found  in  the  market,  magnesium  sulphate  has  generally  been  puri- 
fied by  re-solution  in  water  and  rapid  crystallization,  and  forms  small  rhombic  prisms  or 
needles,  which  resemble  those  of  oxalic  acid  and  zinc  sulphate,  are  perfectly  transparent, 
without  odor,  and  have  a cooling  and  bitter  saline  taste  and  a neutral  reaction.  It  dissolves 
at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  in  one  and  a half  times  its  weight  of  water,  and  in  seven-tenths  of  its 
own  weight  of  boiling  water  ( U S.)  ; it  is  also  soluble  in  diluted  alcohol,  but  insoluble  in 
strong  alcohol.  The  German  Pharmacopoeia  gives  the  solubility  of 
crystallized  magnesium  sulphate  as  1 part  in  1.0  part  of  water  at 
15°  C.,  and  in  0.3  parts  of  boiling  water;  but  a solution  saturated 
at  15°  C.  contains  for  100  parts  of  water,  according  to  Mulder  (1864), 

69.29  parts  ; according  to  Gerlach  (1859),  107.1  parts ; and  accord- 
ing to  Michel  and  Krafft  (1854),  108.44  parts;  and  at  100°  C., 
according  to  Mulder,  151.29  parts  of  the  crystallized  salt.  Exposed 
to  air,  the  crystals  slowly  effloresce,  becoming  superficially  opaque ; 
when  heated  to  52°  C.  (125.6°  F.)  the  salt  loses  1 molecule  (7.3  per 
cent.)  of  water,  and  is  converted  into  a white  powder.  At  about  132° 

C.  (269.6°  F.)  it  still  retains  1 molecule  of  water,  and  at  a tempera- 
ture of  200°-238°  C.  (392°-460.4°  F.)  it  is  rendered  anhydrous 
(£7  S.) ; the  total  weight  of  water  amounts  to  51.34  per  cent.  The 
aqueous  solution  on  the  addition  of  barium  chloride  yields  a white 
precipitate  of  barium  sulphate  insoluble  in  hydrochloric  acid.  It  is 
not  precipitated  in  the  cold  by  potassium  bicarbonate  or  ammonium 
carbonate,  but  gives  white  precipitates  with  the  carbonates  and  the  hydroxides  of  sodium 
and  potassium,  which  are  redissolved  by  ammonium  chloride.  Ammonia  added  to  its 
solution  likewise  causes  a white  precipitate  soluble  in  ammonium  chloride,  and  this  solu- 
tion, on  the  addition  of  ammonium  phosphate,  deposits  all  magnesium  in  the  form  of  a 
crystalline  powder,  which  is  magnesium  and  ammonium  phosphate,  MgNH4P04.6H20.  and 
is  insoluble  in  diluted  ammonia,  sparingly  soluble  in  water,  and  freely  soluble  in  diluted 
acetic  and  other  acids ; the  precipitate,  after  having  been  well  washed  with  diluted 
ammonia,  then  dried,  and  ignited  in  a porcelain  crucible,  is  converted  into  magnesium 
pyrophosphate,  Mg2P207  (mol.  weight  222.24),  which  represents  21.86  per  cent.  Mg  or 
36.21  per  cent,  of  MgO. 

Tests. — Impurities  are  detected  in  precisely  the  same  manner  as  in  the  nitric  acid 
solution  of  magnesium  carbonate  (see  above).  The  following  tests  have  been  adopted 
by  the  U.  S.  P. : “ When  a small  portion  of  the  salt  is  introduced,  on  a clean  platinum 
wire,  into  a non-luminous  flame,  it  should  not  impart  to  the  latter  a persistent  yellow  color 
(limit  of  sodium).  A 5 per  cent,  aqueous  solution  of  the  salt  should  not  be  affected  by 
hydrogen  sulphide  test-solution  (absence  of  metallic  impurities)  ; nor  afford  more  than  a 
slight  opalescence  with  silver  nitrate  test-solution  (limit  of  chloride)  ; nor  should  20  Cc. 
of  the  same  solution  afford  any  coloration  or  precipitate  on  the  addition  of  0.5  Cc.  of 
potassium  ferrocyanide  test-solution  (absence  of  iron,  zinc,  or  copper).  If  1 Gm.  of  the 
powdered  salt  be  shaken  with  3 Cc.  of  stannous  chloride  test-solution,  a small  piece  of 
pure  tin-foil  added,  and  the  test-tube  then  set  aside,  no  coloration  should  appear  within 
one  hour  (limit  of  arsenic).” 

Magnesii  sulphas  effervescens,  Br.  Add. — Effervescent  magnesium  sulphate, 
Effervescent  Epsom  salt.  Dry  10  parts  of  magnesium  sulphate  at  about  54.4°  C.  (130° 
F.)  until  it  has  lost  nearly  one-fourth  (23  per  cent.)  of  its  weight  ; powder  the  product, 
mix  it  with  2.1  parts  of  powdered  sugar,  then  with  2.5  parts  of  citric  and  3.8  parts  of 
tartaric  acid,  both  in  fine  powder,  and  finally  add  7.2  parts  of  sodium  bicarbonate.  Place 
the  mixture  in  a dish  or  pan  heated  to  between  93.3°  and  104.4°  C.  (200°  and  220°  F.), 
and  when  the  particles  of  the  powder  begin  to  aggregate,  stir  them  assiduously  until  they 
assume  a granular  form  ; then  by  means  of  suitable  sieves  separate  the  granules  of  uni- 
form size  and  preserve  them  in  well-closed  bottles. 

Magnesii  sulphas  exsiccatus,  Magnesium  sulfuricum  siccum,  P.  G.  The  crys- 
tallized sulphate  is  exposed  in  a warm  place  until  it  has  lost  from  35  to  37  per  cent, 
of  its  weight,  and  is  then  passed  through  a sieve.  It  is  a white  powder  having  the  prop- 
erties of  the  crystallized  salt,  except  that  it  contains  less  water ; on  exposure  to  air  it 
gradually  attracts  moisture,  aud  should  therefore  be  kept  in  well-stoppered  bottles.  The 
64 


1010 


MAGNESII  SULPHAS. 


German  Pharmacopoeia  directs  it  to  be  dispensed  when  powdered  magnesium  sulphate  is 
prescribed. 

Magnesii  lactas,  Magnesium  lactate,  Mg(C3H503)2.3II20 ; mol.  weight  255.76.  6 

parts  of  calcium  lactate  (see  page  71)  and  5 parts  of  magnesium  sulphate  are  separately 
dissolved  in  hot  water,  the  solutions  mixed  and  filtered  from  the  precipitated  calcium  sul- 
phate, the  last  traces  of  which  are  removed  by  digesting  with  a little  magnesium  carbo- 
nate ; the  filtrate  is  then  evaporated  and  crystallized.  Magnesium  lactate  may  also  be 
conveniently  prepared  by  adding  an  excess  of  magnesium  carbonate  to  lactic  acid  diluted 
with  water,  filtering  and  evaporating  the  solution  to  dryness  on  a water-bath.  The  salt 
forms  white  granular  crystals  or  needles,  is  insoluble  in  alcohol,  soluble  in  about  30  parts 
of  cold  and  6 parts  of  boiling  water,  and  when  heated  is  decomposed  without  melting. 
Its  solution  in  water  is  not  precipitated  by  barium  nitrate,  ammonium  carbonate,  or  am- 
monium sulphide. 

Magnesii  sulphis,  Magnesium  sulphite,  MgS03.6H20  ; mol.  weight  211.87.  Sulphur 
dioxide  in  excess  is  passed  through  a mixture  of  magnesium  carbonate  and  water,  or  a 
solution  of  sulphurous  acid  is  added  to  an  aqueous  suspension  of  magnesia  ; the  mixture 
is  filtered  and  the  solution  carefully  concentrated.  The  salt  occurs  as  a white  crystalline 
inodorous  powder,  is  insoluble  in  alcohol,  but  soluble  in  20  parts  of  water  at  15°  C.  (59° 
F.) ; at  about  200°  C.  (392°  F.)  it  softens,  and  parts  with  its  water  of  crystallization, 
and  at  a higher  heat  is  converted  into  magnesia  and  anhydrous  magnesium  sulphate.  The 
aqueous  solution  shows  with  alkali  carbonates  and  phosphates  the  same  behavior  as  the 
sulphate. 

Action  and  Uses. — Magnesium  sulphate,  dissolved  in  a large  quantity  of  water 
and  taken  on  an  empty  stomach,  is  very  prompt  in  its  operation,  producing  copious 
watery  dejections  and  generally  diuresis.  Indeed,  if  the  skin  be  kept  cool  the  latter 
mode  of  operation  may  exceed  the  purgative  effect,  particularly  if  the  dose  be  not  large. 
Delicate  persons,  especially  in  cool  weather,  are  apt  to  feel  chilly  and  weak  during  its. 
operation.  This  refrigerant  influence  renders  it  appropriate  in  warm  weather  and  in 
febrile  affections.  If  the  dose  be  excessive  and  largely  diluted,  hypercatharsis  may 
occur.  On  the  other  hand,  large  doses  not  thus  diluted  have  sometimes  occasioned  an 
alarming  sedation,  with  pallor,  debility,  coldness,  and  even  syncope,  although  no  purga- 
tion whatever  occurred.  In  at  least  one  case,  that  of  a boy  ten  years  old,  death  result- 
ed. These  effects,  according  to  the  dose  and  degree  of  dilution  with  water,  are  more  or 
less  produced  by  all  saline  cathartics.  There  is  good  reason  for  believing  that  this  prep- 
aration, like  other  saline  cathartics,  purges  by  causing  a profuse  transudation  into  the 
intestine  of  the  watery  constituents  of  the  blood.  According  to  Rutherford,  magnesium 
sulphate  has  no  cholagogue  action.  laworski  finds  that  a solution  of  sodium  sulphate  is 
much  more  rapidly  absorbed  from  the  stomach  than  one  of  magnesium  sulphate  (Bull,  de 
Therap.  cvi.  228). 

When  properly  administered  it  is  nearly  always  a safe  and  harmless  purgative ; indeed, 
it  is  generally  used  without  medical  advice  by  persons  affected  with  constipation , slight 
febrile  attacks , etc.  It  is  highly  objectionable  when  habitually  employed  for  the  former 
purpose  in  a full  purgative  dose,  for  it  soon  ceases  to  act  purgatively  and  confirms  the 
evil  it  was  used  to  cure.  It  is  also  one  of  the  least  eligible  cathartics  in  cold  weather. 
On  the  other  hand,  if  used  in  small  doses  largely  diluted,  as  1 drachm  in  I a pint  of 
water,  it  may  be  continued  for  a long  time  without  sensibly  diminishing  in  activity. 
As  an  antiphlogistic  purgative  at  the  commencement  of  fevers , especially  of  malarial 
fevers,  it  is  justly  esteemed,  whether  or  not  it  is  preceded  by  a dose  of  8 or  10  grains 
of  calomel,  which  many  think  essential  to  the  result.  In  typhoid  fever  there  is  much 
reason  to  believe  that  a gentle  purgative  action  maintained  during  the  first  week  of  the 
attack  by  this  medicine  tends  to  moderate  the  fever,  mitigate  the  special  typhoid  phe- 
nomena of  the  disease,  and  lessen  the  danger  of  intestinal  perforation.  Tait  and  others 
have  employed  this  saline  to  prevent  septic  fever  (Med.  Record , xxxi.  629).  In  acute 
dysentery  of  a sthenic  type  saline  laxatives,  and  this  one  among  the  number,  have  a 
decided  influence  in  lessening  the  tormina,  tenesmus,  and  bloody  and  mucous  stools,  and 
reducing  the  febrile  action.  But  to  be  efficient  its  administration  ought  to  commence  as 
early  as  possible  in  the  attack  and  before  ulcers  form  in  the  rectum.  In  both  of  the 
last-mentioned  affections  an  ounce  of  the  salt  may  be  dissolved  in  a pint  of  water,  and 
a wineglassful  of  the  solution  administered  every  two  or  three  hours.  When  this  treat- 
ment has  been  pursued  for  twenty-four  or  forty-eight  hours  it  should  be  suspended  for 
about  twelve  hours,  and  then  resumed.  The  use  of  a saturated  solution  of  the  salt  has 
also  been  advocated  (Leahy,  Lancet , Oct.  1890,  p.  711).  In  various  inflammations , 


MAGNOLIA. 


1011 


serous  and  parenchymatous,  it  was  formerly  the  custom  to  administer  Epsom  salt  in 
small  doses,  largely  diluted,  with  the  addition  of  half  a grain  of  tartar  emetic  to  each 
pint  of  the  solution,  which  was  given  in  wineglassful  doses  at  intervals  of  three  hours. 
The  method,  temporarily  supplanted  by  the  use  of  medicines  which  reduce  the  pulse- 
rate  and  temperature  without  providing  any  outlet  for  the  effete  products  of  morbid 
action,  has  been  revived  in  the  case  of  pleurisy  with  effusion  ( Practitioner , xli.  368). 

In  all  cases  of  intestinal  obstruction  not  clearly  due  to  organic  causes  the  use  of  this 
or  some  similar  medicine  should  have  a fair  trial,  care  being  taken  to  employ  a weak 
solution  and  to  administer  it  in  moderate  doses  at  proper  intervals.  In  painter  s colic 
magnesium  sulphate,  with  the  addition  of  sulphuric  acid,  has  been  regarded  as  a specific 
for  the  disease,  but  erroneously. 

From  Gm.  16-32  (^ss— j)  of  Epsom  salt  dissolved  in  Gm.  250  half  a pint  of  water 
is  a full  purgative  dose,  but  even  a less  proportion  of  salt  and  a larger  proportion  of 
water  will  produce  nearly  an  equal  effect.  Its  taste  may  be  partially  disguised  by  aro- 
matic sulphuric  acid  in  the  proportion  of  half  a fluidrachm  to  the  half  pint  of  liquid. 
The  addition  to  the  saline  solution  of  a little  strong  coffee  helps  to  mask  its  nau- 
seous flavor.  It  is  frequently  given  in  an  infusion  of  senna  when  a prompt  and  vig- 
orous operation  is  required.  This  mixture  forms  the  basis  of  the  so-called  “ black 
draught.” 


MAGNOLIA. — Magnolia-bark. 

Ecorce  de  magnolier , Fr. ; Magnolienrinde , G. ; Corteza  de  laurel-tulipan , Sp. 

The  bark  of  different  species  of  Magnolia. 

Nat.  Ord. — Magnoliaceae,  Magnolieae. 

Origin. — Two  of  the  species  indigenous  to  the  United  States  are  evergreen  in  South- 
ern localities.  M.  glauca,  Linne,  which  is  known  as  sweet  bay , white  bay , beaver  tree,  or 
swamp  sassafras , grows  in  swampy  localities  near  the  coast  eastward  to  Massachusetts, 
and  has  oval-oblong  leaves,  which  are  white,  glaucous  beneath,  and  may  be  used  for 
marking  by  placing  the  white  surface  upon  the  fabric  and  writing  with  some  pressure 
upon  the  upper  surface ; the  roots  yield  a yellow  dye.  M.  grandiflora,  Linne,  grows  from 
South  Carolina  westward,  and  has  the  obovate-oblong  leaves,  rusty  pubescent  beneath. 
Both  species  have  large  white  and  fragrant  flowers. 

Of  the  deciduous-leaved  species,  M.  macrophylla,  Michaux , has  the  flowers  white,  and 
at  the  base  purple;  M.  acuminata,  Linne,  is  called  cucumber  tree,  from  the  appearance  of 
the  young  fruit ; it  has  light  bluish-green  flowers  tinged  with  yellow  ; and  M.  Umbrella, 
Lamarck,  umbrella  tree,  so  called  from  the  large  leaves  appearing  whorled  at  the  ends  of 
the  branches,  has  white  flowers.  The  last  two  species  are  found  in  mountainous  districts 
of  the  Southern  States,  and  northward  to  Illinois  and  New  York,  the  latter  to  Southern 
Pennsylvania. 

The  magnolias  produce  their  flowers  in  May  and  June;  they  have  a white  or  greenish 
calyx  of  three  sepals,  many  stamens  with  short  filaments,  and  many  ovaries  collected  on 
an  elongated  receptacle,  forming  a cone-like  aggregation  of  fruits  which  open  at  maturity, 
the  berry-like  seeds  being  suspended  by  a thread-like  funiculus. 

Description. — The  bark  necessarily  varies  as  obtained  from  the  different  species. 
The  young  bark  of  M.  glauca  is  light  orange-brown,  glossy,  with  some  gray  spots,  and 
underneath  the  thin  corky  layer  of  a green  color.  The  bark  of  the  larger  branches  is 
nearly  smooth,  externally  of  a light-gray  or  whitish  color,  marked  with  scattered  warts 
and  some  longitudinal  cracks.  Older  bark  has  the  warts  somewhat  confluent  and  the 
cracks  deepened  into  fissures.  The  inner  surface  is  whitish,  or,  after  drying,  yellowish  or 
pale-brownish,  smooth,  and  very  finely  and  closely  striate.  The  bark  of  the  other  species 
is  thicker,  of  a pale-brown  underneath  the  ash-gray  outer  layer,  and  has  a thick  liber  with 
rather  tough  bast-fibres.  Magnolia-bark  breaks  in  the  outer  layer  with  a smooth  frac- 
ture, and  with  a more  or  less  fibrous  fracture  in  the  bast-layer,  and  exhibits  upon  the 
light-brownish  transverse  section  rather  broad  wedges  of  the  bast  and  medullary  rays. 
The  dried  bark  has  scarcely  any  odor,  but  its  taste  is  warm,  spicy,  somewhat  astringent, 
and  bitter,  particularly  in  the  young  bark. 

Constituents. — The  bark  of  Magnolia  grandiflora  was  examined  by  Stephen  Proc- 
ter (1842),  who  found  in  it  a little  volatile  oil,  resin,  and  a crystalline  principle  resem- 
bling liriodendrin.  The  bark  of  M.  glauca  was  investigated  by  W.  D.  Harrison  (1862), 
and  by  Lloyd  (1886),  the  latter  showing  the  presence  of  three  resins  separable  by  a sol- 
vent; of  a crystalline  glucoside,  soluble  in  alcohol  and  ether;  and  a crystalline  tasteless 


1012 


MAGNOLIA. 


compound,  soluble  in  alcohol,  chloroform,  ether,  and  alkalies,  the  solutions  showing  a blue 
fluorescence.  Crystalline  compounds  were  obtained  from  the  leaves  by  W.  F.  Rawlins 
(1889),  but  were  not  further  examined.  By  treating  the  alcoholic  extract  of  the  fruit 
of  M.  Umbrella  with  hot  petroleum  benzin,  Wallace  Procter  (1872)  obtained  colorless 
crystals  of  magnolin , which  are  soluble  in  alkalies,  alcohol,  ether,  chloroform,  carbon 
disulphide,  and  fixed  oils,  but  sparingly  so  in  boiling  water,  in  which  they  fuse ; the  solu- 
tions have  an  irritating  taste.  The  crystals  are  colored  red  by  sulphuric  acid  and  brown 
by  nitric  acid.  The  pungent  taste  of  the  fruit  is  due  to  a soft  resin  and  the  odor  to  a 
little  volatile  oil. 

Allied  Plants. — Talauma  mexicana,  Don , the  yoloxochitl  of  Mexico,  has  properties  analogous 
to  those  of  magnolia.  The  white  fragrant  flowers  contain  qUercitrin,  and  are  regarded  as  tonic 
and  antispasmodic,  while  the  bark  is  employed  as  an  antiperiodic. 

Lirioden  dron  Tulipifera,  Linne  ; Tulip  tree,  white  poplar,  yellow  poplar,  whitewood,  E. ; 
Tulipier,  Fr. ; Tulpenbaum,  G. — It  grows  from  Vermont  to  Wisconsin,  and  southward  to  the 
Gulf  of  Mexico;  also  in  Western  China;  has  broad,  three-lobed,  and  emarginately  truncate 
leaves,  and  in  May  produces  tulip-shaped,  greenish-yellow  flowers  striped  with  orange-red.  The 
bark  is  collected  from  the  branches  and  also  from  the  trunk.  The  branch-bark  is  brown-gray  or 
blackish-gray  to  purplish-brown,  and  marked  with  numerous  small  warts,  their  shallow  scars  or 
confluent  lines  forming  more  or  less  regular  elongated  meshes,  which  become  longitudinally  cleft 
in  the  older  bark.  The  fissured,  gray,  corky  layer,  removed  from  the  trunk-bark,  leaves  the  liber, 
which  has  a pale-yellowish  color  and  a smooth  very  finely  and  closely  striate  inner  surface.  The 
fracture  is  short,  in  old  bark  fibrous,  and  shows  broad  wedges  of  medullary  rays  and  in  the  inner 
layers  tangential  rows  of  bast-fibres.  The  root-bark  has  a darker  color.  The  bark  is  almost 
inodorous ; the  taste  is  somewhat  pungently  aromatic,  bitter,  and  slightly  astringent.  When 
long  kept  the  bark  is  said  to  become  insipid ; bark  collected  by  us,  and  kept  in  a dry  place  for 
fifteen  years  without  special  precaution,  has  still  the  characteristic  taste  in  a marked  degree. 
The  bitter  and  pungent  principle  is  the  liriodendrin  of  Prof.  Emmet  (1831),  which  he  obtained 
crystallized  by  concentrating  the  alcoholic  tincture,  adding  water  until  a permanent  turbidity 
commenced  to  appear,  and  evaporating  spontaneously.  It  forms  white  needles  or  small  scales,  I 
a portion  remaining  amorphous,  is  insoluble  in  water,  soluble  in  alcohol  and  ether,  fusible  at  < 
about  82°  C.  (180°  F.),  and  volatilizes,  partly  undecomposed,  near  132°  C.  (270°  F.).  Wallace 
Procter  (1872)  obtained  it  from  the  alcoholic  extract  with  petroleum  benzin  in  transparent  yei-  .( 
lowish  globules  of  a persistently  bitter  and  acrid  taste.  Lloyd  (1886)  determined  the  presence  ? 
of  a little  volatile  oil,  brown  resin,  bitter  extractive,  and  tulipiferin,  which  is  colored  yellow  by 
sulphuric  acid,  changing  to  red. 

Calycanthus,  Ord.  Calycanthacese. — The  three  species,  C.  floridus,  Linn6,  C.  laevigatus  and 
C.  glaucus,  Willdenow , are  indigenous  to  North  America  from  Virginia  and  Carolina  soutfnvard 
and  westward,  are  frequently  cultivated  for  ornament,  and,  owing  to  their  pungent  aromatic 
properties,  are  known  as  Carolina  allspice  or  sweet-scented  shrub.  The  dark-purple  flowers  have 
a strawberry-like  odor.  C.  occidentalis,  Hooker  et  Arnott , is  known  in  California  as  spice-bush,  f 
The  fruit  of  these  plants  resembles  a rose-hip,  but  is  dry  when  ripe,  and  consists  of  the  closed  i 
calyx-tube  enclosing  several  akenes,  about  8 Mm.  (J  inch)  long.  Muller  (1831)  found  the  bark  l 
to  contain  volatile  oil,  resin,  acrid  principle,  tannin,  etc.  Dr.  Eccles  (1888)  showed  the  akenes  ,, 
to  contain  a fixed  oil,  starch,  albumin,  and  calycanthine , a crystalline  alkaloid,  slightly  soluble  '« 
in  water,  freely  soluble  in  ether  and  chloroform,  the  salts  very  soluble  in  water,  colored  green  ? 
by  strong  nitric  acid.  H.  W.  Wiley  (1889)  obtained  47  per  cent,  of  oil  and  4.25  per  cent,  of 
calycanthine  from  the  embryo,  while  the  integuments  of  the  akenes  yielded  .83  per  cent,  of 
amorphous  alkaloid  with  traces  of  calycanthine. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  bark  of  the  several  medicinal  species  of  magnolia  is  bitter 
and  aromatic  without  astringencv.  Like  numerous  other  plants  of  similar  qualities, it  has 
been  used  in  hot  decoction  to  produce  diaphoresis  in  fevers , bronchial  catarrhs , rheu- 
matism, and  gout , and  in  cold  decoction  or  tincture  as  a tonic.  The  tree  is  said  to  render 
clear  the  waters  near  which  it  grows,  and  to  prevent  malarial  affections.  The  prepara- 
tions of  the  bark  spoken  of  above  are  used  in  the  cure  of  intermittent  fevers.  The  dose 
of  the  recently-dried  bark  in  powder  is  stated  to  be  from  Gm.  2 to  4 (gr.  xxx-lx),  fre- 
quently repeated.  The  infusion  or  decoction  is  less  eligible  than  the  tincture,  which  is 
not,  however,  officinal. 

Tulip  poplar , used  as  a domestic  tonic  by  the  country  people,  was  first  introduced  into 
medicine  as  a tonic  by  Dr.  Benjamin  Rush,  who  ascribed  to  it  only  the  virtues  of  a sim- 
ple bitter.  Like  other  bitters,  it  has  had  some  repute  as  a vermifuge  and  as  an  anti- 
periodic, and  in  warm  infusion  as  a diuretic  and  sudorific.  The  dose  of  the  powder  is 
Gm.  4 to  8 (sj-ij)-  An  infusion  or  decoction  may  be  prepared  with  Gm.  32  in  Gm.  500, 
and  given  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  64  (f^ij).  A saturated  tincture  may  be  prescribed  in  the 
dose  of  a Gm.  4 (f^j).  According  to  Dr.  Bartholow,  the  hydrochlorate  of  the  alkaloid 
tulipiferin  in  the  dose  of  one-eighth  of  a grain  affects  frogs,  and  one  grain  rabbits.  “ It 
causes  paresis,  muscular  trembling,  convulsions,  partly  clonic,  partly  tonic  in  character. 


MALTUM. 


1013 


heightened  cutaneous  and  ocular  reflexes,  followed  by  stupor,  increasing  paralysis,  and 
finally  complete  suspension  of  motility  and  sensibility.”  In  frogs  the  heart  appeared  to 
be  the  last  organ  to  die ; it  seemed  to  lessen  the  irritability  of  the  motor  and  sensory 
nerves,  and  in  warm-blooded  animals  to  induce  a soporose  state  deepening  into  coma 
(Amer.  Jour.  Med.  Sci .,  Oct.  1886,  p.  524). 

Ccilycanthus  glaucus  has  been  used  in  a decoction  of  the  root,  leaves,  and  bark  as  a 
remedy  for  intermittent  fever.  The  seeds  are  said  to  be  poisonous  to  cattle.  An  alkaloid, 
it  is  stated,  has  been  separated  from  the  seed,  but  its  medicinal  properties,  if  any,  have 
not  been  determined. 

MALTUM,  P.  A.— Malt. 

Maltum  liordei. — Barley  malt , E. ; Malt  Jorge,  Dreche , Fr.  ; Malz , Gerstenmalz , G. 

The  seed  of  Hordeum  distichum,  Linne  (Nat.  Ord.  Graminacese),  caused  to  enter  the 
incipient  stage  of  germination  by  artificial  means,  and  dried. 

Preparation  and  Properties. — Different  kinds  of  grain  may  be  employed  for  the 
preparation  of  malt,  but  the  kind  most  generally  used  is  barley.  The  grain  is  soaked  in 
water,  and  then  placed  in  heaps  ; heat  is  spontaneously  generated,  and  by  occasional 
turning  prevented  from  rising  too  high.  Under  these  conditions  germination  takes  place, 
and  when  the  germ  has  acquired  the  desired  length  the  grain  is  rapidly  dried,  and  con- 
stitutes malt.  According  to  the  degree  of  heat  employed  in  drying  the  color  of  the  malt 
varies  somewhat,  and  is  known  as  either  pale , pale  amber , amber , or  amber-brown.  For 
some  purposes  malt  is  made  to  undergo  a roasting  process  in  revolving  cylinders,  to 
obtain  roasted  or  black  malt  if  the  integuments  are  of  a dark-brown  color,  or  crystallized 
malt  if  the  interior  of  the  grain  has  become  dark -brown.  Malt  has  an  agreeable  odor 
and  a sweet  taste,  and  yields  with  water  a more  or  less  deep  yellowish-brown  or  brown 
infusion.  Only  pale  or  pale  amber-colored  malt  is  employed  medicinally. 

Constituents. — The  chemical  changes  taking  place  in  germinating  grain  and  sprout- 
ing potatoes  were  explained  by  Payen  and  Persoz  (1833),  who  discovered  a peculiar  fer- 
ment, diastase , which  exists  in  the  vicinity  of  the  embryo,  but  not  in  the  radicle  of  the 
germ ; on  making  an  infusion  of  fresh  malt,  precipitating  salts  and  some  proteids  with  a 
little  alcohol,  and  then  adding  more  alcohol,  diastase  in  an  approximately  pure  condition 
is  precipitated,  but,  according  to  Dubrunfaut  (1868),  is  a mixture  which  contains  the  true 
fermentative  principle,  maltin.  The  remaining  constituents  of  malt  are  those  of  barley, 
with  the  exception  of  dextrin  (see  pp.  203  and  817)  and  sugar , which  have  been  formed 
from  a portion  of  the  starch,  the  remainder  of  which,  still  present  in  the  malt,  is  likewise 
converted  into  the  same  compounds  by  the  process  of  mashing , which  consists  in  prepar- 
ing an  infusion  of  ground  malt,  called  wort , and  keeping  it  at  a temperature  of  about  70° 
C.  (158°  F.). 

During  the  process  of  malting  good  barley  increases  about  9 per  cent,  in  volume,  but 
loses  about  20  per  cent,  in  weight,  and  good  malt  should  yield  to  water  soluble  principles 
amounting  to  two-thirds  of  its  weight.  Diastase  has  the  property  of  converting  starch 
into  dextrin  and  sugar,  and  in  this  respect  resembles  ptyalin , a ferment  met  with  in  the 
salivary  glands  of  animals.  Coutaret  (1870)  regards  the  two  ferments  as  being  identical. 

Action  and.  Uses. — Liquid  and  semiliquid  extracts  of  malt  were  much  used  a few 
years  ago  in  Germany,  where  they  were  first  introduced,  as  tonic  and  nutritious  substi- 
tutes for  malt  liquors.  Thence  they  were  diffused  to  every  part  of  the  world,  until  their 
local  manufacture  displaced  the  imported  preparations,  and  both  were  superseded  by 
some  later  fashionable  medicine.  Although  their  mode  of  action  is  by  no  means  clear, 
in  many  cases  they  were  found  quite  beneficial  in  states  of  chronic  debility  and  dyspep- 
sia due  to  organic  disease  or  infirmity  or  to  mere  nervous  exhaustion,  but  seldom  more, 
and  often  less,  than  good  malt  liquors  into  the  composition  of  which  hops  enter. 
Malt  appears  to  be  especially  adapted  to  promote  the  digestion  of  amylaceous  food  by 
hastening  its  conversion  into  dextrin  and  glucose,  and  preventing  the  fermentation 
which  would  otherwise  take  place,  and  which  would  arrest  or  impair  digestion.  The 
semiliquid  preparation,  which  is  a true  extract  of  malt,  is  very  difficult  to  take,  owing 
1 t0.lts  tenacious  and  adhesive  qualities,  and  is  generally  prescribed  in  teaspoonful  doses 
mixed  with  soup,  wine,  beer,  or  milk.  It  should  be  used  at  the  beginning  of  or  during 
a mea  . Malt  preparations  are  of  use  in  tubercular  phthisis  and  other  wasting  diseases, 
on  y because  they  enable  the  digestive  organs  to  assimilate  more  food  than  it  would 
ot  erwise  be  possible  to  digest,  whether  this  be  supplied  by  the  malt  itself  or  by  other 
nutritious  articles,  the  digestion  of  which  it  promotes. 


1014 


MANGANI  DIOXWUM. 


An  infusion  of  malt  made  with  cold  water  is  an  energetic  diastatic  agent.  The  follow- 
ing directions  may  be  followed  in  its  preparation  : “ 3 ounces  (or  heaped  tablespoonfuls) 
of  crushed  malt  are  thoroughly  well  mixed  in  a suitable  vessel  with  2 pint  of  cold  water. 
The  mixture  is  allowed  to  stand  over  night — that  is  to  say,  for  twelve  or  fifteen  hours. 

It  is  then  filtered  through  paper  until  it  becomes  perfectly  bright.  The  above  quantities 
yield  about  7 ounces  of  product  of  a sherry-brown  color  and  a faint  sweetish  taste.  It 
is  nearly  neutral,  and  its  sp.  gr.  about  1.025.  Its  chief  solid  constituent  is  maltose,  and  is 

rich  in  diastase It  is  very  prone  to  fermentation,  and  ought  to  be  prepared  fresh 

every  day  ” (Roberts,  Practitioner , xxiii.  405).  A tablespoonful  of  this  liquid,  added  to 
2 pint  of  gruel  prepared  from  wheat  or  other  flour,  or  from  oatmeal,  groats,  pearl-barley, 
arrow-root,  or  another  farina,  and  at  a temperature  not  too  high  for  being  eaten,  will 
immediately  transform  the  starchy  ingredients  of  the  mixture  into  sugar  and  dextrin. 

In  this  manner  a food  may  be  formed  which  will  save  or  prolong  the  life  of  patients 
affected  with  tubercle,  marasmus,  or  any  wasting  disease  in  which  all  other  forms  of 
nutriment  are  either  vomited  or  passed  by  stool.  Above  all,  it  is  valuable  in  the  treat- 
ment of  two  of  the  most  fatal  diseases  of  infancy — cholera  infantum  and  summer  diar- 
rhoea. 

It  appears  that  in  Japan  malt  ( [midzu  ame ) has  long  been  used  for  similar  purposes 
(Eldridge,  Med.  News , xliv.  114). 

MANGANI  DIOXIDUM,  U.  S. — Manganese  Dioxide. 

Mangani  oxidum  nigrum , U.  S.  1880  ; Manganesii  oxidum  nigrum , Br.  ; Manganum 
hyperoxydatnm , Oxidum  manganicum , Magnesia  vitriariorum. — Manganese  peroxide , Black 
Oxide  of  Manganese , Pyrolusite , E. ; Oxyde  ( Peroxyde ) de  manganese , Fr. ; Braunstein  ' 
Mangansuperoxyd,  Gr. 

Native,  crude  manganese  dioxide  containing  at  least  66  per.  cent,  of  the  pure  dioxide 
(Formula  MnG2.  Molecular  weight  86.72). 

Origin. — Pyrolusite. — or,  as  it  is  commercially  called,  black  manganese  or  manga- 
nese— is  found  in  different  parts  of  Germany,  France,  Spain,  and  Great  Britain,  and  also 
in  Nova  Scotia,  Vermont,  Pennsylvania,  and  other  parts  of  North  America.  Sometimes  ! 
it  is  found  nearly  pure,  but  it  is  generally  associated  with  other  manganic  ores,  particu- 
larly with  the  inferior  brown  manganite , and  often  with  iron,  lime,  baryta,  silica,  etc.  It 
may  also  be  obtained  artificially  by  carefully  fusing  manganous  carbonate  with  potassium 
chlorate  and  washing  the  mass,  or,  according  to  Walter  Weldon  (1867),  by  exposing  a ; 
mixture  of  manganous  hydroxide  and  lime  to  the  air  at  a temperature  of  about  55°  C.  t 
(131°  F.).  The  average  importation  of  ore  and  manganese  oxide  into  the  United  States  j 
for  the  eight  years  ending  1880  was  nearly  1,700,000  pounds  annually.  [ 

Properties. — It  is  amorphous,  and  is  then  of  a dull  gray-black  color,  or  in  masses 
composed  of  tabular,  fibrous,  or  radiating  crystals  having  a bright  metallic  lustre  and  yield- 
ing a black  or  grayish-black,  somewhat  gritty,  tasteless  powder.  Its  specific  gravity  is  I 
4.7  to  4.94.  It  is  insoluble  in  water  and  in  all  simple  solvents,  as  well  as  in  weak  acids ; 
it  dissolves  in  hot  hydrochloric  acid  to  manganous  chloride,  while  chlorine  is  given  off; 
Mn02  + 4HC1  yields  MnCl2  -f-  2II20  + Cl2.  When  it  is  treated  with  diluted  sulphuric 
acid  in  the  presence  of  oxalic  acid,  the  latter  is  oxidized  to  carbon  dioxide,  manganous  sul- 
phate being  dissolved  ; Mn02  + H2S04  + H2C204  yields  2C02  + MnS04  + 2H20.  When 
heated  to  redness  the  black  oxide  parts  with  a portion  of  its  oxygen,  leaving  brown  man- 
ganic oxide,  Mn203,  or  at  a bright-red  heat  red  manganoso-manganic  oxide,  MnO.Mn,Os ; 
and  wThen  mixed  with  potassa  and  potassium  chlorate  and  heated  to  dull  redness,  a black- 
green  mass  of  potassium  manganate  is  obtained,  which  yields  with  cold  water  a deep-green 
solution,  the  color  changing  to  purple  on  the  addition  of  an  acid  or  on  boiling,  potassium 
permanganate  being  produced. 

Valuation. — The  value  of  black  manganese  oxide  for  the  production  of  chlorine,  may 
be  determined  in  various  ways,  either  by  ascertaining  directly  the  loss  in  weight  occa- 
sioned by  the  evolution  of  carbon  dioxide  in  the  reaction  just  described,  when  the  weight 
of  2C02  (87.78)  will  indicate  1 molecule  of  Mn02  (86.72),  or  after  the  reaction  has  been 
completed  the  excess  of  the  oxalic  acid  added  is  estimated  by  a standardized  solution  ot 
potassium  permanganate,  which  is  added  until  it  ceases  to  be  decolorized.  The  generation 
of  chlorine  and  its  oxidizing  effect  upon  ferrous  salts  are  utilized  for  the  same  purpose  in 
the  following  manner  : 5 Gm.  of  the  finely-powdered  oxide  are  mixed  in  a flask  with  about 
15  Gm.  of  water  and  35  Gm.  of  strong  hydrochloric  acid ; 32.3  Gm.  of  pure  granular  fer- 
rous sulphate  are  likewise  weighed  out  and  added,  at  first  in  larger,  afterward  in  smaller, 


MANGA XI  SULPHAS. 


1015 


portions,  until,  after  some  digestion,  the  odor  of  chlorine  has  entirely  disappeared  and  a 
drop  of  the  liquid  is  colored  blue  by  potassium  ferricyanide  from  the  excess  of  ferrous 
salt.  If  the  oxide  was  pure  Mn02  it  would  require  32.3  Gm.  of  ferrous  sulphate  ; from 
the  exact  quantity  of  the  latter  used  the  percentage  of  the  former  is  easily  calculated. 
The  Pharmacopoeia  requires  black  manganese  to  contain  at  least  66  per  cent,  of  Mn02, 
and  if  of  this  strength  the  above  quantity,  after  the  addition  of  21.3  Gm.,  will  give  no 
blue  reaction  with  the  ferricyanide.  This  is  the  process  of  assay  adopted  by  the  Phar- 
macopoeia, the  quantities  directed  being  black  oxide  of  manganese  1 Gm.,  water  5 Gm., 
hydrochloric  acid  5 Cc.,  and  ferrous  sulphate  4.22  Gm.  The  32.3  Gm.  of  the  ferrous  sul- 
phate may  also  be  added  at  once,  and  after  the  completion  of  the  reaction  its  excess 
ascertained  by  standardized  potassium  permanganate. 

Impurities. — If  a portion  of  the  dioxide  be  strongly  heated  in  a dry  test-tube,  no 
combustion  should  ensue,  nor  should  carbon  dioxide  be  evolved  (absence  of  organic  impu- 
rities.) If  to  another  portion  of  the  dioxide,  contained  in  a test-tube,  a small  quantity  of 
diluted  hydrochloric  acid  be  added,  no  odor  of  hydrogen  sulphide  should  be  developed, 
nor  should  a strip  of  paper,  moistened  with  lead  acetate  test-solution  and  suspended  over 
the  mixture,  become  blackened  (absence  of  metallic  sulphides).  After  the  mixture  of 
the  dioxide  with  hydrochloric  acid  has  been  raised  to  boiling  and  filtered,  the  filtered 
liquid  should  not  afford,  with  hydrogen  sulphide  test-solution,  an  orange-colored  precipi- 
tate (absence  of  antimony  sulphide).”, — U.  S. 

Composition. — Manganese  dioxide  consists  of  63.19  per  cent,  of  manganum  and 
36.81  per  cent,  of  oxygen. 

The  metal  manganum , manganium  or  manganesium  was  first  isolated  by  Gahn  (1774) 
after  Pott,  Scheele,  Bergmann,  and  others  had  shown  black  manganese  to  be  free  from 
iron ; it  may  be  obtained  by  reducing  one  of  its  oxides  with  carbon  at  a very  high  temper- 
ature. It  resembles  iron,  but  is  harder,  more  brittle,  and  has  a lighter  or  darker,  some- 
times a reddish,  tint ; its  specific  gravity  is  7.13-7.21  (Brunner),  and  it  melts  at  a white 
heat.  Besides  the  oxygen  compounds  mentioned  above  it  unites  with  this  element  also 
in  several  other  proportions.  Manganous  oxide , MnO,  is  a grayish-green  powder  which 
readily  oxidizes  in  contact  with  the  air.  Manganic  acid , H2Mn04,  is  not  known  in  the 
free  state,  but  only  in  the  form  of  salts,  which  have  a green  color.  Manganic  heptoxide , 
Mn207,  is  a heavy,  dark  red-brown,  oily  liquid  which  detonates  violently  when  heated  to 
between  30°  and  40°  C.  (86°  and  104°  F.).  Permanganic  acid , H2Mn208,  is  a deep  violet- 
colored  liquid  which  is  a powerful  oxidizing  agent.  (See  Potassium  Permanganate.) 

Uses. — Manganese  dioxide  is  used  for  the  preparation  of  oxygen  and  largely  in  the 
manufacture  of  chlorine,  and  the  solution  obtained  in  this  process  may  be  employed  for 
preparing  other  compounds  of  manganum. 

Action  and  Uses. — Black  oxide  of  manganese  was  introduced  into  medicine  when 
its  chemical  affinities  were  found  to  be  nearly  analogous  to  those  of  iron.  But  the 
chemical  ground  of  judgment  proved,  as  it  usually  does  in  therapeutics,  a fallacious  one, 
and  none  of  the  curative  effects  anticipated  were  secured.  The  experiments  of  Cahn 
( Arch.  f.  exper.  Pathol,  u.  Phar.,  xviii.  129)  led  him  to  conclude  that  when  manganese 
is  thrown  into  the  circulation  it  is  not  appropriated  by  the  red  corpuscles  ; that  when 
introduced  into  parenchymatous  organs  it  is  absorbed,  and  the  greater  part  excreted 
into  the  intestine  to  be  discharged  with  the  faeces ; and  that  it  is  not  absorbed  from  the 
sound  gastro-intestinal  mucous  membrane  in  appreciable  quantity.  The  black  oxide  has 
been  substituted  by  some  practitioners  for  the  permanganate  on  account  of  the  irritant 
operation  of  the  latter  {Med.  News,  liv.  367,  516).  It  has  been  employed  in  the  treat- 
ment of  morbid  sensibility  of  the  stomach — an  affection  which  was  doubtless,  in  some 
cases,  gastralgia,  and  in  others  simple  ulcer.  When  it  was  of  service  in  such  cases  it 
probably  acted  as  bismuth  subcarbonate  or  subnitrate  acts,  by  furnishing  an  inert  and 
insoluble  coating  to  the  part.  It  was  given  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.30-3  (gr.  v-xl). 

MANG-ANI  SULPHAS,  TI.  S. — Manganese  Sulphate. 

Manganesii  sulphas , Manganum  sulfuricum , Sulfas  manganosus. — Manganous  sulphate , 
E. ; Sulfate  de  manganese , Sulfate  manganeux,  Fr. ; Manganosulfat,  Schwefelsaures  Mangan- 

oxgdul , G. 

Formula  MnS04.4H20.  Molecular  weight  222.46. 

Preparation. — Manganese  dioxide  is  mixed  with  sufficient  strong  sulphuric  acid 
to  obtain  a thin  magma,  which  is  heated  to  boiling  and  evaporated  to  dryness  ; the  mass 
is  now  heated  in  a crucible  to  dull  redness  for  some  time  for  the  purpose  of  decom- 


1016 


MANGANI  SULPHAS. 


posing  the  iron  sulphate.  When  cool  it  is  treated  with  water,  and  the  solution,  if  iron 
be  still  present,  digested  with  manganous  carbonate,  then  filtered,  and  evaporated  to 
crystallize. 

Properties. — When  crystallized  below  6°  C.  (43°  F.)  the  salt  contains  7H.20,  and  is 
isomorphous  with  ferrous  sulphate ; above  that  temperature  and  below  20°  C.  (68°  F.)  it 
contains  only  5H20  and  has  the  form  of  copper  sulphate.  But  the  salt  usually  met  with 
is  crystallized  between  20°  and  30°  C.  (86°  F.),  and  forms  right  rhombic — or,  according 
to  Marignac,  monoclinic — prisms,  containing  4H20,  three  of  which  are  given  off  at  a 
temperature  of  115°  C.  (239°  F.).  A salt  of  the  same  composition  as  this  residue  is 
also  obtained  by  adding  sulphuric  acid  to  a solution  of  manganous  sulphate  and  evaporat- 
ing ; it  forms  a granular  powder.  The  crystals  of  the  official  salt  are  transparent  and 
colorless,  or  more  frequently  of  a pale  rose-red  color,  slightly  efflorescent  in  a dry  atmo- 
sphere, insoluble  in  strong  alcohol,  but  dissolve  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  in  150  parts  of  60 
per  cent.,  in  50  parts  of  50  per  cent.,  and  in  2 parts  of  10  per  cent.,  alcohol.  The  salt 
requires  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  0.8  (U.  S.),  1.06  parts  (Mulder)  of  water,  and  1.08  (U.  S.) 
1.28  (Mulder)  parts  of  boiling  water  ; at  55°  C.  (131°  F.)  0.9  part  of  water  is  required. 
The  solution  has  a styptic  and  slightly  bitter  taste,  a neutral  or  faintly  acid  reaction,  and 
yields  with  ammonium  sulphide  a flesh-colored  precipitate,  with  ferrocyanide  a white  one,  and 
with  ferricyanide  a grayish-brown  one,  but  is  not  disturbed  by  tannic  acid.  The  fixed 
alkalies  and  alkali  carbonates  produce  white  precipitates,  which  on  exposure  to  air  are 
rapidly  oxidized,  turning  brown.  Barium  chloride  yields  an  insoluble  white  precipitate. 
If  a fragment  of  the  salt  be  mixed  with  a little  sodium  hydroxide  test-solution,  and  the 
mixture  then  dried  and  fused,  it  will  yield  a dark -green  mass,  dissolving  in  water  with  a 
green  color. 

Tests. — The  most  common  impurity  likely  to  be  met  with  is  sulphate  of  iron,  the 
presence  of  which  would  be  indicated  by  the  blue-black  color  produced  with  solution  of 
tannin  or  by  the  more  or  less  deep-blue  color  of  the  precipitate  with  potassium  ferro- 
cyanide. Sulphate  of  copper  would  in  the  slightly  acidulated  solution  produce  a black 
precipitate  with  hydrogen  sulphide.  The  precipitate  with  ammonium  sulphide  should  be 
completely  soluble  in  acetic  acid,  proving  the  absence  of  zinc  salt.  The  sulphates  of 
magnesium  and  the  fixed  alkalies  are  indicated  by  the  residue  left  after  precipitating  the 
solution  completely  with  ammonium  sulphide  or  carbonate,  evaporating  the  filtrate  to 
dryness,  and  igniting.  When  heated  to  dull  redness  the  salt  should  lose  not  more  than 
32.4  per  cent,  of  its  weight  (proper  (official)  amount  of  water  of  crystallization). 

Other  Compounds. — Mangani  carbonas.  Manganese  carbonate  is  prepared  by  precipitat- 
ing in  the  presence  of  a little  syrup  a solution  of  manganous  sulphate  with  sodium  carbonate, 
washing  the  precipitate  well,  and  drying  it  rapidly  with  a moderate  heat.  It  is  a white  powder 
having  a brownish  tinge  and  dissolving  in  carbonic  acid  water,  leaving  only  a slight  residue  of 
brown  manganic  oxide. 

Mangani  chloridum.  Manganese  chloride  is  most  economically  obtained  when  preparing 
chlorine  from  black  oxide  of  manganese  and  hydrochloric  acid ; the  resulting  liquid  is  digested 
with  manganese  carbonate  until  the  iron  has  been  completely  precipitated ; the  filtrate  is  evapo- 
rated, crystallized,  and  by  recrystallization  purified  from  calcium  chloride  if  present.  The  salt 
is  in  granular,  or  when  slowly  evaporated  in  tabular,  crystals  of  a pale  rose-red  color,  and  has 
the  composition  MnCl2.4H20  (mol.  weight  197.38).  It  is  soluble  in  alcohol,  and  requires  at  ordi- 
nary temperature  about  2\  parts  of  water  for  solution. 

Mangani  iodidum.  Manganese  iodide  is  a very  deliquescent  salt,  and  is  best  administered  in 
the  form  of  syrup , which  may  be  prepared  by  dissolving  manganese  carbonate  in  hydriodic  acid, 
or  by  the  following  formula  proposed  by  Prof.  Procter  (1850) : Take  of  manganese  sulphate 
16  drachms*,  potassium  iodide  19  drachms;  sugar,  water,  each  sufficient.  Dissolve  each  of 
the  salts  in  3 fluidounces  of  water  containing  2 drachms  of  syrup ; mix,  and  after  precipitation 
filter  the  solution  into  a bottle  containing  12  ounces  of  sugar ; add  water  to  make  a pint,  and 
shake  the  bottle  till  the  sugar  is  dissolved.  Each  fluidounce  contains  1 drachm  of  manganese 
iodide ; it  may  be  given  in  doses  of  10  drops  to  ^ fluidrachm. 

The  same  author  has  also  proposed  a syrup  of  the  iodides  of  iron  and  manganese , to  be  pre- 
pared as  follows : Take  of  potassium  iodide  1000  grains ; ferrous  sulphate  630  grains ; manga- 
nese sulphate  210  grains;  clean  iron  filings  100  grains;  powdered  sugar  4800  grains;  distilled 
water  sufficient.  Rub  the  sulphates  and  iodide  separately  to  powder,  mix  with  the  iron  filings, 
add  J fluidounce  of  water,  and  rub  to  a uniform  paste ; add  the  same  quantity  of  water  a second 
and  a third  time  at  intervals  of  fifteen  minutes,  and  rub.  Place  the  sugar  in  a bottle,  and  drain 
the  dense  solution  into  it  through  a filter,  adding  water  slowly  to  the  magma,  until  the  solution 
of  the  iodides  is  displaced  and  the  liquid  measures  12  fluidounces.  Lastly,  agitate  the  bottle 
till  the  sugar  is  dissolved.  Each  fluidounce  contains  50  grains  of  the  iodides  in  the  proportion 
of  3 parts  of  ferrous  iodide  to  1 of  manganous  iodide.  The  dose  is  the  same  as  the  preceding. 
Both  syrups  contain  some  potassium  sulphate. 


MANNA. 


1017 


Maxgani  lactas.  Manganese  lactate  is  formed  by  adding  manganese  carbonate  to  hot 
lactic  acid ; on  evaporating  the  filtrate  the  salt  is  obtained  in  pale  rose-red  shining  crystals, 
which  contain  19  per  cent,  of  water  of  crystallization,  are  soluble  in  12  parts  of  cold  water,  and 
dissolve  likewise  in  hot  alcohol,  crystallizing  again  on  cooling. 

Maxgani  phosphas.  Manganese  phosphate  is  obtained  by  precipitating  10  parts  of  mangan- 
ese sulphate  with  1 1 parts  or  sufficient  of  sodium  phosphate,  each  separately  dissolved  in  about 
80  parts  of  water,  washing  the  precipitate  well  to  remove  the  sodium  sulphate,  and  drying.  It 
is  a white  crystalline  powder,  sometimes  with  a reddish  tint,  having  the  composition  Mn3(P04)2. 
411,0,  and  dissolving  readily  in  dilute  acids.  A syrup  has  been  recommended  by  T.  S.  Wiegand 
(1834);  the  salt  may  be  dissolved  in  dilute  hydrochloric,  or,  better  still,  in  phosphoric  acid,  and 
sufficient  sugar  dissolved  in  the  cold  solution. 

Maxgani  taxxas.  Manganese  tannate  was  recommended  by  Marietta  (1865).  It  is  obtained 
bv  adding  recently-precipitated  manganese  carbonate  to  a hot  solution  of  tannic  acid  in  distilled 
water  until  it  ceases  to  dissolve,  filtering,  and  evaporating  to  dryness.  The  carbonate  must  be 
absolutely  free  from  iron,  and  the  solution  must  be  protected  from  contact  with  iron,  otherwise 
it  will  acquire  an  inky  color.  The  salt  is  soluble  in  water,  and  when  prescribed  in  solution 
syrup  or  glycerin  should  be  added  for  preservation. 

Maxgani  tartras,  Manganese  tartrate.  On  dissolving  10  parts  of  Rochelle  salt  and  8 
parts  of  manganese  sulphate,  each  in  its  own  weight  of  hot  water,  and  mixing  the  solutions, 
small  white  or  pale-reddish  crystals  of  manganese  tartrate  are  obtained  on  cooling,  which  must 
be  washed  with  cold  water,  since  hot  water  decomposes  them  into  a soluble  acid  and  an  insoluble 
basic  salt. 

Action  and  Uses. — Experiments  prove  that  all  the  soluble  manganic  com- 
pounds are  poisonous,  and  act  as  powerful  sedatives  of  the  nervous  and  circulatory 
systems.  Apparently  ignorant  of  these  experiments  or  of  their  bearing,  a non-medical 
scientist  on  the  one  hand,  and  on  the  other  a pharmacist  and  a surgeon,  drew  the 
conclusion  that  because  manganese  had  been  detected  in  the  blood,  and  because  in  its 
chemical  habitudes  it  closely  resembles  iron,  therefore  it  must  possess  therapeutical 
virtues  analogous  to  those  of  iron,  and  might  be  used  at  least  to  reinforce  the  latter 
metal.  These  theorists  went  even  so  far  as  to  suggest  the  idea  that,  inasmuch  as  in 
nearly  all  martial  preparations  there  is  some  manganese,  they  may  possibly  derive  their 
virtues  from  it,  and  not  from  the  iron  they  contain.  But  the  physiological  action  of 
manganese  exhibits  the  absolute  antagonism  of  its  operation  to  that  of  iron  in  every 
point. 

Sulphate  of  manganese  has  been  employed  as  a cholagogue  purgative  in  jaundice  and 
other  affections  associated  with  hepatic  engorgement,  but  it  is  not  a cholagogue,  and  its 
irritating  qualities  render  it  an  unsafe  remedy.  The  dose  of  susphate  of  manganese  is 
from  Gm.  0.10-0.30  (2  to  5 grains).  Its  advantage  as  a substitute  for  iron  are  quite 
illusory.  An  ointment  made  with  this  salt  which  acts  as  an  irritant  upon  the  skin  has 
been  applied  by  friction  to  glandular  indurations  and  swelling  of  the  joints.  The  chloride 
has  occasionally  been  used  to  stimulate  indolent  ulcer $,  especially  those  of  syphilitic 
origin,  but  it  possesses  no  superiority  over  the  usual  topical  applications  made  for  this 
purpose.  Of  the  other  manganic  compounds  above  described  it  need  only  be  said  that 
they  possess  no  recognized  therapeutical  value.  (A  further  consideration  of  manganic 
compounds  will  be  found  under  Potassium  Permanganate.) 

MANNA,  U.  S.,  Br.,  B.  A B.  G.— Manna. 

Manne,  Fr.  Cod. ; Manna,  G. ; Manna , Sp. 

The  concrete  saccharine  exudation,  in  flakes,  of  Fraxinus  Ornus,  Linne , s.  Ornus 
europaea,  Persoon.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 170. 

Nat.  Ord. — Oleaceae. 

Origin. — The  manna  ash,  or  flowering  ash,  is  a slender  tree  with  opposite  pinnate 
leaves  and  small  white  diandrous  flowers  grouped  together  on  a terminal,  drooping,  very 
elegant  panicle.  It  is  indigenous  to  the  countries  bordering  the  Mediterranean  on  the 
north  from  Asia  Minor  west  to  Spain,  and  has  been  introduced  into  Central  Europe  and 
England  as  an  ornamental  tree.  The  foliage,  even  on  the  same  tree,  is  very  variable,  and 
Fraxinus  rotundifolia,  Lamarck , cannot  be  regarded  as  a distinct  species  nor  even  as  a 
well-marked  variety. 

Collection. — Manna  is  at  present  collected  for  commercial  purposes  solely  in  Sicily, 
as  was  ascertained  by  Hanbury,  the  plantations  or  frassinetti  being  chiefly  on  the  northern 
shore  of  that  island.  When  the  tree  is  about  eight  years  old  and  its  trunk  at  least  75 
Mm.  (3  inches)  in  diameter,  it  will  yield  manna  and  remain  productive  for  from  twelve 
to  twenty  years,  when  the  stem  is  cut  down  and  replaced  by  a shoot  from  the  stump. 


1018 


MANNA. 


The  incisions  are  made  in  dry  weather  with  a hooked  knife,  one  each  day,  commencing 
near  the  root  and  directly  above  each  other ; they  are  transverse,  5 Cm.  (2  inches)  or  less 
in  length,  and  penetrate  through  the  bark  to  the  wood.  In  the  following  year  the  same 
operation  is  repeated  on  the  untouched  side,  and  this  is  continued  from  year  to  year  until 
the  tree  ceases  to  be  productive.  The  juice  flowing  from  the  lower  incisions  is  collected 
on  tiles  or  in  receptacles  made  from  the  stem  of  an  Opuntia ; that  from  the  upper  inci- 
sions hardens  on  the  stem,  or.  for  producing  a superior  variety  called  manna  a cannolo 
which  is  rarely  seen  in  commerce,  is  allowed  to  harden  on  sticks  or  straws  inserted  into 
the  cuts.  When  sufficiently  hard  the  large  pieces  are  gathered,  and  completely  dried 
before  being  packed,  while  the  smaller  ones  are  afterward  scraped  from  the  stem  and  sold 
separately. 

Description. — The  varieties  of  manna  generally  distinguished  in  our  commerce  are 
large  flake , small  flake,  and  sorts.  Flake  manna  (. Manna,  cannulata ) consists  of  three- 
edged  pieces  varying  in  length  from  1 to  15  or  20  Cm.  (J  inch  to  6 or  8 inches),  1 to  5 
Cm.  (2  to  1 or  2 inches)  wide,  and  somewhat  less  in  thickness,  flat  or  curved  on  one  side 
where  it  adhered  to  the  tree,  and  uneven  from  roundish  projections  on  the  others, 
showing  the  marks  of  different  layers.  It  is  externally  of  a yellowish -white,  in  some 
places  pale-brownish  color,  friable,  internally  porous,  and  the  cavities  filled  with  white 
glistening  crystals  of  mannit.  Its  odor  is  honey-like,  somewhat  nauseous,  and  its  taste 
sweet,  but  combined  with  a very  slight  bitterness  and  acridity.  Large  and  small  flake 
manna  differ  only  in  size,  the  latter,  however,  being  often  of  a darker  shade.  Manna  in 
sorts  ( Manna  communis , s.  geracina ) consists  of  the  scrapings,  and  is  met  with  in  frag- 
ments of  the  size  of  a pin’s  head  to  about  12  Mm.  (2  inch)  in  diameter,  with  a rather 
adhesive  surface  and  of  a brownish  color  outside,  but  internally  nearly  white  and  crystal- 
line ; not  unfrequently  the  fragments  are  united  by  a viscid  brownish  matter,  which, 
without  the  flakes,  constitutes  fat  manna  ( Manna  pinguis , s.  crassa , s.  de  Puglia)  a 
variety  rarely  seen  in  this  country,  and  rejected  by  the  pharmacopoeias.  It  flows  from 
the  incisions  late  in  autumn,  and  is  more  particularly  yielded  by  old  trees ; it  is  soft  and  . 
glutinous,  entirely  devoid  of  crystals,  and  less  agreeable  in  odor  and  taste  than  flake 
manna,  from  which  it  differs  in  containing  much  less  mannit  and  more  gum,  sugar,  and 
coloring  matter. 

Sophistication. — Manna  has  occasionally  been  sophisticated  by  mixtures  made 
of  bread-crumb,  starch,  glucose,  etc.,  which  are  very  readily  discovered  if  practised  with 
flake  manna  ; starchy  substances  can  also  be  readily  detected  in  manna  sorts  by  the  iodine 
tests. 

Tests. — On  boiling  5 parts  of  manna  with  100  parts  of  alcohol  a solution  should  be 
obtained  which  does  not  affect  the  color  of  litmus,  and  while  cooling  deposits  many  crys-  ; 
tals  of  mannit. 

Constituents. — The  best  dry  flake  manna  contains  about  90  per  cent,  of  mannit , the 
remainder  being  fermentable  sugar , resin , and  mucilage.  Mannit  (mannitol),  C6H8(OH)6  — 
C6Hu06,  was  discovered  by  Proust  (1806),  and  may  be  obtained  by  treating  manna  with  } 
boiling  alcohol  and  recrystallizing  several  times  from  hot  alcohol.  Charles  T.  Bonsall 
(1853)  recommends  the  dissolving  of  manna  in  three  times  its  weight  of  boiling  water, 
precipitating  gum  and  coloring  matter  by  a little  lead  subacetate,  removing  excess  of 
lead  by  hydrogen  sulphide  or  a little  sulphuric  acid,  concentrating  the  filtrate,  and 
pouring  the  hot  syrupy  liquid  into  twice  its  bulk  of  cold  alcohol : the  mannit  will  crys- 
tallize on  cooling.  It  crystallizes  in  colorless  needles  or  glossy  rhombic  prisms  which 
fuse  at  165°  C.  (329°  F.)  and  boil  near  200°  C.  (392°  F.),  when  a portion  sublimes  unal- 
tered, but  most  of  it  is  converted  into  mannit  an , C6H1205,  a sweetish,  syrupy  liquid. 
Mannit  dissolves  in  about  6 parts  of  cold  and  in  much  less  hot  water,  in  90  parts  of  cold 
67  per  cent,  alcohol,  and  is  insoluble  in  ether  and  nearly  so  in  absolute  alcohol.  The 
solutions  scarcely  affect  polarized  light,  are  not  altered  by  boiling  with  dilute  acids,  and 
do  not  reduce  Fehling’s  solution.  It  unites  with  bases,  forming  compounds  which  are 
insoluble  in  alcohol.  Nitric  acid  converts  it  into  racemic  acid  and  sugar,  and  ultimately 
into  saccharic  and  oxalic  acids.  Gorup-Besanez  (1861)  observed  that  moist  platinum- 
black  converts  it  into  mannitic  acid , C6H1207,  and  mannit ose , C6H1206,  which  is  ferment- 
able, but  optically  inactive.  Berthelot  (1856)  has  shown  that  under  certain  circumstances 
mannit  will  undergo  alcoholic  fermentation.  Mannit  has  been  found  in  a large  number 
of  plants,  is  formed  in  small  quantity  during  the  alcoholic  fermentation  of  sugar,  and 
may  be  obtained  artificially  by  acting  upon  glucose  with  sodium  amalgam. 

The  fermentable  sugar  present  in  manna  reduces  Fehling’s  solution  very  readily,  and 
the  mucilaginous  matter  is  partly  precipitated  by  lead  acetate,  partly  by  subacetate. 


M ARM  OR  ALBUM. 


1019 


The  resin  is  soluble  in  ether,  and  has  a brown-red  color  and  an  acrid  taste.  The  green 
color  observed  in  some  pieces  of  manna  is  due  to  fraxin , C32H3602o,  which  was  discovered 
by  Salm-Horstmar  (1857)  in  the  bark  of  Fraxinus  excelsior,  the  European  ash  (see  pp. 
756  and  813),  and  splits  with  dilute  acids  into  glucose  and  fraxetin , C10H8O5. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparation—  Syrupus  manna:,  Syrup  of  manna.  Dissolve 
1 part  of  manna  in  4 parts  of  distilled  water,  filter,  and  add  5 parts  of  sugar  and  10  parts 
of  syrup. — P.  G. 

Other  Mannas. — The  sweet  exudations  of  various  trees  have  received  the  name  of  manna ; that 
sometimes  obtained  in  Southern  Europe  from  incisions  into  the  trunk  of  Fraxinus  excelsior, 
Limit,  is  identical  with  the  foregoing.  The  young  shoots  of  the  European  larch,  Pinus  Larix, 
Limit , yield  in  the  middle  of  summer  a white  exudation  known  as  Briangon  manna  and  contain- 
ing the  sugar  melezitose,  C12H220n.3H20.  The  leaves  of  Eucalyptus  viminalis,  Labillardiere , and 
other  species  of  Australia,  yield  Australian  manna,  containing  melitose,  C,2H28Ou.  Persian 
manna  comes  from  Alhagi  Camelorum,  Fischer  (Leguminosae),  and  contains  spines  and  leaflets  of 
the  plant ; other  varieties  are  produced  by  Salix  fragilis,  Limit,  and  different  species  of  Astraga- 
lus. Tamarisk  manna  exudes  from  Tamarix  mannifera,  Ehrenberg , in  consequence  of  the  punc- 
ture made  by  an  insect,  Coccus  manniparus,  Ehrenberg , and  is  collected  near  Mount  Sinai,  and 
sold  by  the  monks  of  the  convent  of  St.  Catharine  ; it  contains  cane-sugar,  glucose,  and  dextrin. 
Armenian  (oak)  manna  results  from  the  puncture  of  a Coccus  upon  the  leaves  of  Quercus  Yah 
lonea,  Kotschy,  and  Q.  persica,  Jaubert  et  Spach  ; it  is  either  dissolved  from  the  leaves  by  water, 
which  is  evaporated,  or  else  scraped  off,  and  then  is  mixed  with  numerous  small  fragments  of  the 
leaves  ; it  consists  chiefly  of  grape-sugar.  Lebanon  manna  is  in  small  sweet  grains  obtained  from 
Cedrus  libanotica,  Link.  Saccharine  exudations  have  been  observed  upon  a number  of  other 
plants,  and  the  saccharine  products  of  some  insects,  like  the  trehala  (tigala)  of  Syria,  containing 
the  peculiar  sugar  trehalose , and  the  lerp  of  Australia,  have  sometimes  been  classed  with  the 
mannas ; they  are  not  entirely  soluble  in  water. 

Action  and  Uses. — Manna  is  a laxative  peculiarly  adapted  to  children  and  pregnant 
women ; it  is  also  a gentle  cholagogue , and  at  the  same  time  a suitable  expectorant  in 
febrile  affections  of  the  lungs.  Some  writers  have  held  it  to  be  peculiarly  fitted,  owing 
to  the  mildness  of  its  action,  to  be  employed  in  cases  of  piles  and  of  genito-ur  inary  irrita- 
tion. It  is  slow  in  its  operation,  and  is  not  apt  to  leave  the  bowels  confined,  but  it  tends 
to  occasion  flatulence  and  colic.  It  may  be  given  in  doses  of  Gm.  16-32  (^s-Jj),  dis- 
solved in  hot  water.  Formerly,  as  at  the  present  day,  it  was  often  associated  with  rhu- 
barb, tamarinds,  or  senna,  and  it  forms  one  of  the  ingredients  of  the  black  draught:  R. 
Sennae  §ss ; Magnesiae  sulph.,  Mannae  aa  ^ss ; Sem.  foeniculi  contus.  gj  ; Aquae  bull. 
Oss. — M.  Macerate  in  a covered  vessel  until  the  liquid  cools.  One-third  of  it  may  be 
given  every  four  or  five  hours  until  it  operates.  The  same  infusion  may  be  made  with 
cold  water  by  percolation.  It  is  less  nauseous  and  has  a slighter  tendency  to  gripe. 


MARMOR  ALBUM,  Br. — White  Marble. 

Marmor. — Marble , E.  ; Marbre , Fr.  ; Marmor , G. 

Formula  CaC03.  Molecular  weight  99.76. 

Native  white  granular  calcium  carbonate. 

Properties. — Marble  is  found  in  various  parts  of  the  globe,  the  white  kind  being 
nearly  pure  calcium  carbonate,  while  the  colored  varieties  are  more  or  less  tinged  or 
variegated  by  the  presence  of  oxides  of  iron  and  manganese  or  by  bituminous  matter. 
It  is  met  with  in  masses  which  are  an  aggregation  of  minute  crystals,  imparting  a gran- 
ular and  glistening  appearance.  It  has  the  specific  gravity  2.7,  is  brittle,  hard,  insoluble 
in  the  ordinary  solvents,  but  entirely  soluble  in  dilute  hydrochloric  acid,  carbon  dioxide 
being  given  off.  It  is  used  in  pharmacy  for  generating  the  gas  mentioned,  for  which 
purpose  black  marble  containing  bituminous  compounds  is  inadmissible,  but  other 
varieties  may  be  used.  In  case  the  solution  in  hydrochloric  acid  is  to  be  used  for  the 
preparation  of  other  calcium  compounds,  it  must  be  completely  freed  from  iron  by  digest- 
ing it  with  milk  of  lime,  and  after  filtration  should  not  be  precipitated  by  a solution  of 
calcium  sulphate  (absence  of  barium  and  strontium),  nor  by  ammonium  phosphate  after 
the  previous  addition  of  excess  of  ammonium  chloride  and  ammonium  carbonate  and 
filtration  (absence  of  magnesium). 

Marble  has  the  same  composition  as  chalk,  and  when  heated  to  redness  parts  with  car- 
bon dioxide,  leaving  lime  or  calcium  oxide,  CaO. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — In  producing  carbon  dioxide  and  for  preparing  Liquor 
calcii  chloridi. 


1020 


MARR  UBIUM.—MASSA  COPAIBJE. 


MARRUBIUM,  JJ.  S. — Horehound,  Hoarhound. 

Herba  murrubii. — Herbe  de  marrube  blanc , Fr.  Cod. ; Andornkraut , Weisser  Andorn , 
G. ; Marrubia , Sp. 

The  leaves  and  tops  of  Marrubium  vulgare,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 

210. 

Nat.  Ord. — Labiatse,  Stachydeae. 

Origin. — Horehound  is  a perennial  herb,  and  is  found  in  waste  places  in  Asia  from 
Northern  India  westward  to  the  Mediterranean,  and  throughout  Europe  except  the 
extreme  north  ; it  has  been  naturalized  in  Canada  and  in  many  parts  of  the  United  States 
westward  to  California,  also  in  some  parts  of  South  America.  It  is  not  unfrequently  met 
with  in  gardens,  and  it  flowers  from  June  to  September. 

Description. — The  branching  stem  is  about  30  Cm.  (1  foot)  high,  quadrangular, 
much-branched,  and  covered  with  a white  felt.  The  leaves  are  opposite,  petiolate,  about 
25  Mm.  (1  inch)  long,  roundish-ovate,  somewhat  heart-shaped  or  rounded  at  the  base, 
obtuse,  serrate  or  coarsely  crenate,  wrinkled  by  the  prominent  veins  below,  pale-green  and 
downy  above  and  white-hairy  beneath.  The  flowers  are  in  dense  axillary  whorls,  with 
woolly,  linear,  and  hooked  bracts,  a tubular  ten-ribbed  calyx  divided  into  ten  short,  spread- 
ing, stiff,  and  hooked  teeth,  and  a white  bilabiate  corolla  enclosing  four  stamens.  The  four 
akenes  are  dark-brown. 

Horehound  has  a strong,  peculiar,  and  aromatic  odor  and  an  aromatic  and  persistent 
bitter  taste. 

Constituents. — Horehound  contains,  besides  some  resin,  tannin,  and  other  common 
principles,  a small  quantity  of  volatile  oil,  and  marrubiin , a bitter  principle  discovered  by 
Mein  (1855).  Harms  obtained  30  grains  from  25  pounds  of  the  dry  herb  by  treating  the 
aqueous  extract  with  alcohol,  distilling  the  latter,  and  agitating  the  residue  with  ether, 
which  dissolves  the  marrubiin.  Kromer  (1801)  agitated  the  infusion  with  charcoal  and 
exhausted  the  latter  with  hot  alcohol,  which  dissolves  the  bitter  principle  and  tannin ; 
the  latter  is  removed  by  lead  oxide.  Marrubiin  is  slightly  soluble  in  cold  water,  crystal- 
lizes from  alcohol  in  prismatic  and  from  ether  in  tabular  crystals,  is  not  precipitated  by 
tannin,  and  has  a very  bitter  and  somewhat  acrid  taste. 

Action  and  Uses. — Anciently  regarded  as  a general  stimulant,  expectorant,  deob- 
struent, carminative,  and  local  anodyne,  hoarhound  continues  to  be  employed  as  a 
stomachic  tonic  in  dyspepsia,  and  in  chronic  bronchitis  to  restrain  secretion.  It  has  also 
been  used  in  chronic  rheumatism,  hepatic  and  uterine  disorders,  and,  like  other  bitter 
herbs,  in  intermittent  fever.  It  has  some  reputation  as  an  anthelmintic , and  is  said  to 
diminish  salivation.  The  dose  of  the  powder  is  stated  to  be  from  Gm.  2-4  (gr.  xxx-lx). 
An  infusion  made  with  Gm.  32  to  Gm.  500  (^j-Oj)  of  hot  water  may  be  given  in  doses 
of  a wineglassful.  The  expressed  juice  should  be  administered  with  honey  or  milk  in 
the  dose  of  Gm.  4 (a  teaspoonful  or  two)  several  times  a day.  An  extract  is  prepared  in 
Europe. 


MASSES  PILULARUM.— Pill  Masses. 

Masses  pilulaires,  Fr.  ; Pillenmassen,  G. 

The  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia  of  1890,  in  accordance  with  general  custom,  orders  three 
pill  masses  to  be  kept  in  bulk,  and  designates  such  a pill  mass  as  Massa , which  is  equiv- 
alent to  Pilula  adopted  by  the  British  Pharmacopoeia.  (For  general  remarks  on  the 
preparation  of  pill  masses  see  Pilule.) 

MASSA  COPAIBiE,  U.  S.~ Mass  of  Copaiba. 

Pilulse  copaibse. — Solidified  copaiba,  E. ; Masse  pilulaire  de  copahu,  Fr. ; Copaiva- 
Pillenmasse,  G. 

Preparation. — Copaiba,  94  Gm. ; Magnesia,  6 Gm. ; Water,  a sufficient  quantity. 
Upon  the  magnesia,  contained  in  an  enamelled  iron  capsule,  sprinkle  a sufficient  quantity 
of  water  to  make  it  distinctly  damp,  and  render  it  homogeneous  by  trituration.  Then 
gradually  incorporate  with  it  the  copaiba  so  that  a uniform  mixture  may  result,  place 
the  capsule  on  a water-bath  and  heat  during  half  an  hour,  frequently  stirring.  Lastly, 
transfer  the  mixture  to  a suitable  vessel  and  set  this  aside  until  the  mass  has  acquired  a 
pilular  consistence. — U.  S. 


MASS  A FERRI  CARBON ATTS. 


1021 


The  official  directions  to  sprinkle  the  magnesia  with  water  are  for  the  purpose  of 
properly  hydrating  the  same,  as  it  is  well  known  that  anhydrous  magnesia  does  not 
readily  combine  with  the  acid  resin.  The  combination  may  be  looked  upon  as  magne- 
sium copaivate  with  volatile  oil  of  copaiba. 

The  variety  of  copaiba  best  adapted  for  this  mass  is  Maracaibo  copaiba  (p.  537), 
since  it  contains  a larger  proportion  of  resin  ; this  enters  into  combination  with  the 
magnesia,  forming  a resin  soap,  which  gradually  becomes  dry  and  hard.  If  thin  Para 
copaiba  is  to  be  used,  it  is  advisable  to  evaporate  sufficient  of  the  volatile  oil  until  the 
residue,  after  cooling,  forms  a viscid  liquid,  when  it  may  be  mixed  with  the  magnesia. 
The  pilules  de  copo.hu  (F.  Cod.)  are  made  in  the  same  manner,  and  contain  3.86  grains 
(0.25  Gm.)  of  copaiba;  those  of  the  U.  S.  P.  1870  contain  4.8  grains. 

In  Europe  pills  of  copaiba  and  powdered  cubebs  are  sometimes  used,  and  made  into  a 
mass  by  means  of  wax.  The  quantities  necessary  are  1 part  of  each  of  the  ingredients 
named,  or  3 parts  of  copaiba,  5 of  cubebs,  and  1 of  wax.  This  mass  retains  its  plasticity 
for  a long  time. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  efficiency  of  copaiba  must  necessarily  be  very  much 
impaired  by  being  given  in  so  insoluble  a combination.  Each  pill  should  contain  about 
5 grains  of  copaiba,  and  the  average  dose  would  be  two  or  three  pills. 


MASSA  FERRI  CARBONATIS,  U.  S.—Mass  of  Ferrous  Carbonate. 

Pilula  ferri  carhonatis , Br. — V alleys  mass,  Vallet's  pill  mass , E. ; Masse  pihdaire  de 
Yallet,  de  carbonate  ferreux,  Fr.  ; Vallet’sche  Pillenmasse.  G. 

Preparation — Ferrous  Sulphate,  in  clear  crystals,  100  Gm.  ; Sodium  Carbonate, 
100  Gm. ; Clarified  Honey,  38  Gm. ; Sugar,  in  coarse  powder,  25  Gm. ; Syrup,  Distilled 
Water,  each,  a sufficient  quantity,  to  make  100  Gm.  Dissolve  the  ferrous  sulphate  and 
the  sodium  carbonate,  each  separately,  in  200  Cc.  of  boiling  distilled  water,  and,  having 
added  20  Cc.  of  syrup  to  the  solution  of  iron  salt,  filter  both  solutions,  and  allow  them  to  be- 
come cold.  Introduce  the  solution  of  sodium  carbonate  into  a bottle  having  a capacity  of 
about  500  Cc.,  and  gradually  add  the  solution  of  the  iron  salt,  rotating  the  flask  con- 
stantly or  frequently  until  carbon  dioxide  no  longer  escapes.  Add  a sufficient  quantity 
of  distilled  water  to  fill  the  bottle  ; then  cork  the  bottle  and  set  it  aside,  so  that  the 
ferrous  carbonate  may  subside.  Pour  off  the  supernatant  liquid,  and,  having  mixed 
syrup  and  distilled  water  in  the  proportion  of  1 volume  of  syrup  to  19  volumes  of  dis- 
tilled water,  wash  the  precipitate  with  the  mixture  by  decantation  until  the  washings  no 
longer  have  a saline  taste.  Drain  the  precipitate  on  a muslin  strainer,  and  express  as 
much  of  the  water  as  possible.  Lastly,  mix  the  precipitate  at  once  with  the  honey  and 
sugar,  and,  by  means  of  a water-bath,  evaporate  the  mixture  in  a tared  capsule,  with 
constant  stirring,  until  it  is  reduced  to  100  Gm. — V,  S. 

To  make  4 av.  ozs.  of  Vallet’s  mass  will  require  the  following  quantities:  Ferrous  sul- 
phate, crystals,  and  sodium  carbonate,  of  each  4 av.  ozs. ; clarified  honey,  665  grains, 
sugar  in  coarse  powder,  438  grains. 

Take  of  saccharated  carbonate  of  iron  1 ounce  ; confection  of  roses  \ ounce.  Beat 
them  into  a uniform  mass. — Br. 

On  mixing  solutions  of  ferrous  sulphate  and  sodium  carbonate,  ferrous  carbonate  and 
sodium  sulphate  are  formed  by  mutual  decomposition  (see  p.  735).  In  contact  with  air 
the  white  iron  precipitate  rapidly  oxidizes.  The  change  is  prevented  by  washing  the 
precipitate  in  bottles  by  decantation  with  water  recently  boiled,  and  excluding  the  air ; 
an  additional  protection  is  afforded  by  dissolving  some  sugar  in  the  water.  The  pill  mass, 
when  recently  made,  is  of  a greenish-gray  color,  but  on  exposure  becomes  superficially 
greenish-black. 

The  quantity  of  ferrous  sulphate  ordered  in  the  official  formula  is  capable  of  yielding 
very  nearly  42  Gm.  of  ferrous  carbonate,  but  as  some  of  the  precipitate  is  lost  by  washing, 
and  as  the  weight  of  the  finished  product  is  directed  to  be  brought  to  100  Gm.,  scarcely 
more  than  35  or  36  Gm.  of  ferrous  carbonate  will  be  present,  equal  to  35  or  36  per 

cent. 

Pilule  ferri  carbonici,  P.  G. ; Pil.  ferratae  Valleti. — Pills  of  ferrous  carbonate, 
E. ; Pilules  de  Vallet,  Pilules  ferrugineuses,  Fr. ; Eisenpillen,  Vallet’sche  Pillen,  G. — 
Ferrous  sulphate  100  parts  is  converted  into  carbonate  with  sodium  bicarbonate  by  the 
process  described  on  page  717 ; the  washed  precipitate  is  mixed  with  sugar  16  parts, 
honey  52  parts,  and  the  mixture  evaporated  to  108  parts.  10  Gm.  of  this  mass,  with  the 


1022 


MASS  A HYDRARGYRI. 


requisite  quantity  of  powdered  marshmallow-root,  are  made  into  100  pills,  which  are 
rolled  in  powdered  cinnamon,  and  each  of  which  represents  .025  Gm.  iron. — P.  G. 

The  formula  of  the  French  Codex  is  almost  identical  with  that  of  the  United  States 
Pharmacopoeia,  except  that  milk-sugar  is  used  in  place  of  sugar  ; 6 parts  of  the  mass  are 
mixed  with  1 part  each  of  powdered  marshmallow-  and  liquorice-root,  and  divided  into 
pills,  each  weighing  0.25  Gm.,  which  are  to  be  silvered. 

Action  and  Uses. — Mass  of  carbonate  of  iron  is  one  of  the  most  efficient  forms 
in  which  iron  can  be  exhibited.  It  is  especially  indicated  in  pure  ansemia  and  in  anaemic 
chlorosis,  and  in  all  affections  in  which  the  red  corpuscles  of  the  blood  are  deficient,  par- 
ticularly when  the  digestive  function  is  not  greatly  impaired.  When  dyspeptic  disorders 
attend,  the  soluble  preparations  of  iron  are  usually  more  efficient.  The  dose  of  mass  of 
carbonate  of  iron  is  Gm.  0.15-0.30  (gr.  iij-v),  and  should  usually  he  taken  at  meal-time. 

MASSA  HYDRARGYRI,  U.  8.— Mass  of  Mercury. 

Pilula  hydrargyri,  Br.  ; Massa  coerulea. — Blue  mass , Blue  pill,  E.  ; Masse  pilulaire  hleue, 
Fr.  ; Mercurial-  Pillenmasse,  G. 

Preparation. — Mercury  33  Gm. ; Glycyrrhiza,  in  No.  60  powder,  5 Gm.;  Althaea, 
in  No.  60  powder,  25  Gm. ; Glycerin  3 Gm. ; Honey  of  Rose  34  Gm.  ; to  make  100  Gm. 
Triturate  the  mercury  with  honey  of  rose  and  glycerin  until  it  is  extinguished.  Then 
gradually  add  the  glycyrrhiza  and  althaea,  and  continue  the  trituration  until  globules  of 
mercury  cease  to  be  visible  under  a lens  magnifying  ten  diameters. — TJ.  S. 

To  prepare  4 av.  ozs.  of  blue  mass  will  require  578  grains  of  mercury,  87  grains  of 
glycyrrhiza.  437  grains  of  althaea,  53  grains  of  glycerin,  and  595  grains  of  honey  of  rose. 

Mercury  2 parts ; confection  of  roses  3 parts ; liquorice-root,  in  fine  powder,  1 part. — 
Br.,  F.  Cod. 

The  British  Pharmacopoeia  still  directs  the  mercury  to  be  extinguished  by  trituration 
with  confection  of  roses,  and  the  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia  recommends  trituration  with  a 
saccharine  liquid  (honey)  containing  a little  glycerin,  which  facilitates  the  division  of  the 
metal.  W.  W.  Stoddart  (1855)  has  shown  that  the  globules  of  mercury  rapidly  disap- 
pear on  being  triturated  with  powdered  liquorice-root  kept  moist  by  a liquid ; the  direc- 
tions above  given  may  be  conveniently  modified  in  accordance  with  this  suggestion,  so 
that  the  mercury  is  first  completely  extinguished  with  the  powdered  glycyrrhiza  and  suf- 
ficient of  the  mixed  liquids  before  the  remaining  powder  and  liquid  are  incorporated. 
The  use  of  a considerable  proportion  of  powdered  althaea  is  an  improvement,  the  mass 
being  of  a lighter  color  and  of  a purer  blue  tint ; but  the  large  amount  of  mucilage  pres- 
ent in  marshmallow-root  favors  the  production  of  mould  in  a damp  atmosphere ; which 
tendency  is  in  a measure  counteracted  by  the  glycerin. 

The  U.  S.  P.  prescribes  the  following  tests  : “ If  a portion  of  the  mass  be  triturated  in 
a mortar,  with  warm  acetic  acid,  the  filtrate  should  not  become  more  than  slightly 
opalescent  on  the  addition  of  a few  drops  of  hydrochloric  acid  (limit  of  mercurous 
oxide).  If  another  portion  of  the  mass  be  digested  with  warm,  diluted  hydrochloric 
acid  and  a little  purified  animal  charcoal,  the  filtrate  should  not  be  affected  by  hydrogen 
sulphide  test-solution  or  by  stannous  chloride  test-solution  (absence  of  mercuric  oxide).'1 

When  properly  prepared,  blue  mass  contains  metallic  mercury  in  the  state  of  very  fine 
division.  It  is  not  impossible  that  when  kept  on  hand  for  a long  time  a change,  due  to 
the  partial  oxidation  of  mercury,  may  gradually  take  place,  as  has  been  repeatedly 
observed.  Such  a change,  however,  could  only  be  very  superficial,  since  the  metal  is  well 
protected  by  the  other  ingredients  of  the  pill  mass. 

Pulvis  mass.®  hydrargyri,  ^Ethiops  saccharatus. — Powdered  blue  mass,  E. ; 
Poudre  de  mercure  saccharin,  Mercure  (Ethiops)  saccharin,  Fr. ; Wurmzucker,  G. 

Blue  mass  or  blue  pill  is  not  unfrequently  ordered  in  powders,  but  is  unsuited  for 
the  purpose  unless  mixed  with  other  absorbent  powders.  It  may,  however,  be  readily 
obtained  in  the  state  of  a permanent  powder  having  the  same  relative  composition  as  the 
pill  mass  by  substituting  in  the  above  directions  for  the  glycerin  and  honey  of  rose  an 
equal  weight  of  milk-sugar,  using  a drop  of  oil  of  roses  to  impart  the  requisite  flavor, 
and  keeping  the  mixture  moist  by  the  addition  of  alcohol ; after  a uniform  mass  has  been 
obtained  it  is  spread  out  to  allow  the  alcohol  to  evaporate  spontaneously,  after  which  it 
may  be  reduced  to  a permanent  powder.  W.  E.  Bibby  (1876)  recommended  1 part  of 
mercury  to  be  triturated  with  2 parts  of  sugar  of  milk,  without  adding  any  liquid,  the 
metal  being  rapidly  extinguished. 

Pilule  hydrargyri  ; Pilul^e  ccerule^e,  F.  Cod. — Blue  pills,  E. ; Pilules  de  mer- 


MASTICHE. 


1023 


cure.  Pilules  bleues,  Fr. ; Mercurialpillen,  G. — Each  pill  contains  0.05  Gm.  (f  grain)  of 
mercury,  F.  Cod.  The  pills  of  U.  S.  P.  1870  contained  1 grain  of  mercury. 

Action  and  Uses. — Mass  of  mercury,  or  blue  mass,  differs  from  other  mercurials 
in  irritating  the  stomach  and  bowels  less,  and,  therefore,  in  being  less  apt  to  act  as  a 
cathartic.  For  this  reason,  probably,  it  is  more  apt  than  they  are  to  form  combinations 
in  the  primse  vise  which  are  readily  absorbed  and  produce  constitutional  effects.  Such 
effects  are  commonly  sought  from  mercury  in  this  form  when  it  is  given  in  doses  of  Gm. 
0.20  (gr.  iij)  or  less,  and  repeated  several  times  a day  until  the  characteristic  soreness  of  the 
gums  is  observed.  To  prevent  its  acting  as  a laxative  it  is  usually  associated  with  Gm. 
0.016  (gr.  1)  or  less  of  opium  in  each  dose,  or  the  mercurial  is  repeated  at  intervals  of  an 
hour  or  two  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.016-0.02  (gr.  1-J).  When  it  is  desired  to  increase  the 
secretions  of  the  liver  and  pancreas , a dose  of  Gm.  0.15-0.30  (gr.  iij— vj)  is  usually 
administered  at  night,  and  is  followed  the  next  morning  by  a saline,  or,  still  better,  a 
senna  draught,  or  some  other  brisk  cathartic.  Whether  the  mercury  does  or  does  not 
specifically  promote  the  secretion  of  the  glands  referred  to  is  a question  discussed  else- 
where. (See  Hydrargyrum.) 


MASTICHE,  77.  S,9  Br.,  P.  A,—  Mastic,  Mastich. 

Mast ix,  Resina  mastiche. — Mastic,  Fr. ; Mastix,  G. ; Almaciga,  Sp. 


The  concrete  resinous  exudation  from  Pistacia  Lentiscus,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen, 
Med.  Plants,  68. 

Nat.  Ord. — Anacardiese. 

Origin. — A small  tree  or  shrub  which  is  indigenous  to  the  basin  of  the  Mediterranean, 
has  pinnate  leaves  with  leathery  sessile  leaflets  varying  in  form  between  linear  and  ovate, 
short-stalked,  reddish-yellow7  pistillate,  and  larger  greenish  staminate,  flowers,  and  small 
blackish  drupes.  Mastic  is  obtained  in  a few  islands  of  the  Grecian  Archipelago,  princi- 
pally in  Scio,  from  the  var.  y Chia,  which  is  tree-like  and  has  broad  leaves. 

Collection. — The  resin  is  contained  in  the  bast-layer  of  the  bark  in  elongated  ducts 
having  a large  elliptic  cavity  and  surrounded  by  one  or  more  layers  of  small  cells,  in 
which  the  resin  is  secreted.  To  obtain  it  vertical  incisions  are  made  in  June  and  July  in 
the  bark  of  the  trunk  and  larger  branches,  and  in  July  and  August,  after  the  exuding 
resin  has  hardened,  it  is  carefully  removed  from  the  tree  and  collected  in  baskets ; this  is 
the  finest  quality.  An  inferior  quality  consists  of  the  tears  which  have  dropped  from 
the  incisions  upon  tiles  or  flat  stones  kept  under  the  tree.  A vigorous  tree  may  yield 
10  pounds  of  mastic ; the  total  harvest  is  very  variable,  and  occasionally  reaches  50,000 
cwt..  ‘but  is  generally  considerably  less. 

Description. — The  best  quality  of  mastic  is  in  globular  or  more  or  less  elongated 
brittle  tears  of  the  size  of  a pea,  which  are  externally  covered  with  a whitish  dust  or 
have  been  freed  from  it  by  washing,  and  are  then  of  a pale-yellow  color,  perfectly  trans- 
parent, of  a glass-like  lustre,  and  break  readily  with  a conchoidal  fracture.  Placed 
between  the  teeth,  it  is  easily  crushed,  and  then  softens  into  a plastic  mass.  Its  specific 
gravity  is  about  1.07  ; it  becomes  soft  below  the  boiling-point  of  water,  but  fuses  at  some 
degrees  above  it.  It  has  a balsamic  odor,  more  apparent  on  being  heated,  and  a si  ight 
terebinthinous  taste.  It  dissolves  partly  in  alcohol,  and  is  also  soluble  in  benzene,  acetone, 
volatile  oils,  cold  creosote,  and  warm  petroleum,  leaving  a whitish  residue.  The  alcoholic 
solution  reddens  litmus. 


The  inferior  kinds  of  mastic  consist  of  similar  tears,  to  which  sand  and  fragments  of 
bark  adhere,  mixed  with  gray-  or  brown-colored  pieces. 

Constituents. — Mastic  contains  a minute  quantity  of  volatile  oil  and  about  90  per 
cent,  of  alpha-resin  or  mastichic  acid,  which  is  soluble  in  cold  alcohol,  combines  with  bases, 
and,  according  to  Johnston,  has  the  composition  C.2oH3202.  The  portion  insoluble  in 
alcohol  is  white,  tenacious,  soluble  in  ether  and  oil  of  turpentine,  and  has  been  named 
beta-resin  or  masticin  ; its  composition  is  C2oH3102.  Hot  water  dissolves  the  bitter  princi- 
ple, acquires  an  acid  reaction,  and  the  solution  gives  a precipitate  with  tannin. 

Varieties  and  Adulterations. — Bombay  Mastic.  Under  this  name  a drug  has 
appeared  in  the  market  which,  when  well  selected  and  clean,  closely  resembles  the  Scio 
mastic,  but  is  usually  in  less  clean  and  more  opaque  tears.  It  is  obtained  from  Pistacia 
cabulica  and  Khinjuk,  Stocks,  which  are  indigenous  to  North-western  India  and  Beloo- 
chistan.  Pist.  atlantica,  Desfontaines,  a variety  of  Pist.  Terebinthus,  Linne,  growing  in 
Algeria  and  other  parts  of  Northern  Africa,  yields  likewise  a mastic-like  resin. 

Sandaraca. — Sandarac,  E. ; Sandaraque,  Fr. ; Sandarak,  G. — It  is  the  exudation  of 


1024 


M A TICO. 


Callitris  quadrivalvis,  Ventenaf , s.  Thuja  articulata,  Vahl  (Nat.  Ord.  Coniferse,  Cupres- 
sineae),  a small  tree  of  North-western  Africa.  It  forms  brittle  elongated  tears  of  a pale- 
yellowish  color,  with  a dusty  surface,  the  fracture  glass-like  and  transparent,  almost 
wholly  soluble  in  alcohol,  and  becoming  pulverulent  when  masticated. 

The  tears  of  oUbanum  are  generally  larger,  translucent,  and  destitute  of  glassy  lustre. 
The  exudation  of  Atractylis  gummifera  is  sold  in  Greece  as  pseud o-mastich  or  acantho - 
mastich , and  consists  of  agglutinated  tears  which  are  oblong  in  shape  and  about  2 inches 
(5  Cm.)  long  by  1 inch  (25  Mm.)  in  thickness. 

Action  and  Uses. — Formerly  employed  internally  for  purposes  similar  to  those 
for  which  other  terebinthinates  are  prescribed,  as  catarrh  of  the  bronchia  and  urinary 
passages,  its  medicinal  use  is  now  almost  entirely  restricted  to  forming  a solution  in  ether 
with  which  cotton  may  be  saturated  for  the  purpose  of  filling  carious  teeth  and  protecting 
their  tender  surface  from  the  influence  of  cold  and  the  contact  of  food  during  mastication. 
Sandarac  may  be  employed  in  a similar  manner.  A solution  of  mastic  in  alcohol  may 
be  applied  to  arrest  bleeding  from  leech-bites  and  other  slight  wounds.  Mastic  is  an 
ingredient  of  the  “ dinner  pill  ” (Pil.  aloes  et  inastiches).  At  a time  when  Chian  tur- 
pentine was  supposed  to  be  a remedy  for  uterine  cancer,  mastic  was  substituted  for  it 
with  equally  negative  results  ( Med . Record , xviii.  518). 

Sandarac  has  been  used  for  the  same  purposes  as  mastic. 


MATICO,  U.  S.,  Fr.  Cod.— Matico. 

Maticse  folia , Br.  ; Feuilles  de  matico , Fr.  ; Maticoblatter , G. 

The  leaves  of  Piper  angustifolium,  Ruiz  et  Pavon,  s.  Piper  elongatum,  Vahl , s.  Ar- 
tanthe  elongata,  Miguel,  s.  Steffensia  elongata,  Kunth.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 
242. 

Nat.  Ord. — Piperaceae. 

Origin.- — A shrubby  plant  about  2.4  M.  (8  feet)  high,  sometimes  cultivated,  and 
found  in  moist  woods  of  tropical  America  from  Mexico  southward  to  Vene- 
Fig.  180.  zuela,  Brazil,  and  Peru.  The  minute  yellowish  flowers  are  very  numerous. 

aggregated  into  a solid,  cylindrical,  slender  spike  about  15  Cm.  (6  inches) 
long,  and  produce  blackish  fruits  of  the  size  of  a poppy-seed. 

Description. — The  leaves,  which  are  very  frequently  mixed  with 
branches  and  spikes  of  flowers  or  fruits,  are  rather  thick,  about  15  Cm. 
(6  inches)  long,  oblong-lanceolate,  very  finely  serrulate,  narrowed  at  the 
apex  to  a blunt  point  heart-shaped,  and  somewhat  unequal  at  the  base, 
having  a very  short  petiole.  The  upper  surface  is  nearly  glabrous,  of  a 
green  color,  and  very  uneven  or  tessellated  in  appearance  from  the  depressed 
veins,  which  are  prominent  beneath,  making  the  downy  lower  surface  retic- 
ulate, the  meshes  being  small,  and  the  veins  densely  covered  with  brown- 
ish hairs.  The  leaves,  particularly  when  rubbed  between  the  fingers,  have 
an  aromatic  odor  and  a warm,  aromatic,  bitterish  taste. 

Constituents. — Matico  contains  about  1J  per  cent,  of  a thickish,  pale- 
yellow,  volatile  oil,  consisting  of  two  oils,  one  of  which  is  sometimes  heav- 
ier than  water,  and  containing  a crystalline  camphor  melting  at  94°  C. 
Wiegand  (1846)  proved  the  non-existence  of  Hodge’s  maticin,  which  is  a 
potassium  salt.  Stell  (1858)  showed  the  absence  of  piperin  and  cubebin 
and  obtained  a ruby-colored  resin  of  a very  acrid  and  pungent  taste.  Sub- 
Matico -leaf.  sequently  Marcotte  isolated  a crystallized  acid  named  artanthic  acid.  Ma- 
tico contains  also  some  tannin  and  other  principles  common  to  vegetables. 

Substitutions. — In  different  parts  of  South  and  Central  America  the  Spanish 
names  matico  and  yerba  or  palo  del.  soldado  (soldier’s  herb  or  tree)  are  given  to  other 
plants  besides  the  one  described  above — namely,  to  Eupatorium  glutinosum,  Kunth  (Com- 
posite), and  Waltheria  glomerata,  Presl  (Sterculiacese),  the  leaves  of  which  are  likewise 
used  for  arresting  hemorrhage.  The  first-named  species  has  opposite  petiolate,  ovate- 
lanceolate  leaves,  which  are  more  or  less  heart-shaped  at  the  base,  acuminate,  crenately 
serrate,  roughish  above  and  tomentose  beneath.  The  leaves  of  the  second  species  are 
ovate,  serrate,  rounded  or  subcordate  at  the  base  and  soft-hairy  on  both  sides.  Artanthe 
(s.  Piper)  lancesefolia,  Miguel , is  similarly  used  in  New  Granada.  Bentley  (1864)  met 
with  the  leaves  of  Artanthe  adunca,  Miguel , Piper  aduncum,  Linne , which  were  offered  as 
matico.  They  are  similar  in  shape,  and  the  upper  surface  is  marked  by  some  sunken, 
ascending,  and  parallel  nerves,  and  the  lower  surface  by  corresponding  reticulations,  but 


MA  TICO. 


1025 


they  have  not  the  tessellated  appearance  nor  the  roughness  and  hairiness  on  the  lower 
surface  observed  on  the  official  inatico-leaves  ; their  properties  appear  to  be  the  same. 

Allied  Products. — Piper  Betle,  LinnS. — Betel,  E .,  G. ; Betel,  Fr. — It  is  a climbing  shrub, 
indigenous  to  India  and  cultivated  in  various  tropical  countries.  The  leaves  are  broadly  ovate, 
acuminate,  obliquely  cordate  at  the  base,  five-  to  seven-nerved,  coriaceous,  and  above  glossy. 
They  have  a burning  aromatic  and  bitter  taste,  and  are  largely  employed  by  the  Malays  for 
chewing  with  slaked  lime  and  scrapings  of  the  areca-nut  (p.  276). 

Piper  Carpunya,  Ruiz  et  Pavon.  A small  tree  indigenous  to  Chili  and  Peru,  the  leaves  of 
which  are  used.  They  are  cordate-ovate,  acute,  coriaceous  and  glossy,  and  when  dry  have  an 
agreeable  odor,  and  are  used  in  affections  of  the  digestive  organs. 

"Piper  peltatum  and  P.  umbellatum,  Linn6.  Both  plants  are  known  in  some  parts  of  tropical 
America  as  caapeba , in  others  as  periparabo  ; the  roots  are  used  as  diuretics  and  the  leaves  in 
skin  diseases  and  tumors.  The  rhizome  is  tuberous,  with  dark-brown  woody  rootlets  and  con- 
taining reddish  oil-glands. 

Piper  methysticum,  Forster.  It  is  a shrub,  with  cordate,  acuminate,  and  many-nerved  leaves, 
indigenous  to  the  Sandwich  and  other  islands  of  the  Pacific  Ocean.  The  root  is  the  part  employed, 
and  is  known  as  ava  and  kava-kava.  It  is  large,  woody,  but  spongy  and  light,  has  a thin  grayish- 
brown  bark,  and  a meditullium  consisting  of  a yellowish  or  yellow,  occasionally  pale-reddish, 
cellular  tissue,  and  of  numerous  radiating  linear  wood-bundles.  It  has  an  agreeable  odor,  recall- 
ing that  of  lilac  and  of  meadow-sweet,  and  a faintly  pungent  and  slightly  bitter  taste.  Cuzent 
(1860)  found  in  the  root  some  volatile  oil  of  a lemon-yellow  color,  a large  amount  of  starch,  an 
acrid  resin,  and  a principle  called  kavahen  or  methysticin,  which  crystallizes  in  needles  on  con- 
centrating the  tincture  of  kava-root,  and  is  purified  by  treatment  with  animal  charcoal  and 
recrystallization  from  alcohol.  It  is  colorless,  tasteless,  fusible  above  120°  C.  (248°  F.),  sparingly 
soluble  in  cold  water,  and  readily  soluble  in  alcohol  and  ether.  The  masticated  root,  subjected 
to  fermentation,  yields  an  intoxicating  beverage  called  kava. 

Action  and  Uses. — In  its  nature  and  operation  matico  closely  resembles  the 
terebinthinate  medicines,  while  its  odorous  and  special  stimulant  qualities  rank  it  with 
cubeb  and  copaiva.  Like  these  substances,  it  is  absorbed  into  the  blood,  and  appears  to 
produce  a constriction  of  the  capillary  vessels,  whereby  it  controls  mucous  fluxes  and 
haemorrhages,  while  it  occasions  more  or  less  diuresis.  It  has  been  employed,  like 
copaiva,  in  the  treatment  of  bronchitis,  gonorrhoea , leucorrhoea , vesical  catarrh , incontinence 
of  urine , and  chronic  diarrhoea  and  dysentery , and  in  hsemorrhage  from  the  lungs , stomach , 
bowels , rectum , and  kidneys.  Like  oil  of  turpentime,  it  has  been  used  as  a topical 
haemostatic.  The  dose  of  the  powder  is  Gm.  2-12  (3SS-2-3)  several  times  a day.  An 
extract  has  been  made,  of  which  the  dose  is  Gm.  4-5  (gr.  lx-lxxv).  The  fluid  extract 
and  tincture  are  officinal.  Betel-leaves  are  chewed  in  Malabar,  as  above  stated,  and  it  is 
said  that  in  Java  their  juice  is  used  to  cure  obstinate  and  dry  coughs. 

Kava-kava  (Piper  methysticum)  is  said  to  have  long  been  used  by  the  inhabitants  of 
the  South  Sea  islands  as  an  intoxicant  and  as  a remedy  for  gonorrhoea.  In  1879,  Dupuy 
(Med.  Record , xvi.  106)  stated  in  regard  to  it  that  it  is  a sialogogue,  a tonic  to  the 
digestive  organs,  a stimulant  of  the  nervous  system,  a diuretic,  and  a sedative  of  genital 
excitement.  He  found  that  it  rapidly  cured,  after  having  increased,  gonorrhoeal  dis- 
charges, and  that  it  allayed  vesical  and  urethral  irritation.  In  1882,  Mr.  Kesteven 
( Practitioner , xxviii.  199)  related  that  the  Fiji  Islanders  prepare  from  it  a drink  which 
has  several  of  the  qualities  of  tea  and  coffee,  and  is  not  intoxicating,  for,  although  it 
impairs  the  muscular  power  and  causes  a staggering  gait,  the  mind  is  not  clouded.  It 
does  not  raise  the  temperature,  and  steadies  without  exciting  the  pulse ; its  habitual  and 
excessive  use  was  said  to  impair  the  eyesight  and  produce  leprous  ulcers.  Mr.  Kesteven 
also  refers  to  its  use  in  the  treatment  of  vesical  and  urethral  disorders.  In  1885,  Lewin 
found  that  its  resin  applied  to  the  tongue  destroyed  the  perception  of  the  bitterness  of 
quinine,  and  that  injected  into  the  connective  tissue  it  produced  a local  anaesthesia  which, 
in  some  of  the  animals  used,  lasted  for  nine  days.  He  noted  that  when  taken  internally 
it  produced  the  intoxication  above  mentioned,  and  in  excessive  doses,  moreover,  malaise, 
headache,  paresis  of  the  limbs,  and  general  nervous  tremor.  He  also  observed  among 
its  effects  desquamation  of  the  cuticle  and  inflammation  of  the  eyes  (Bull,  de  Therap) ., 
cx.  228;  Therap.  Gaz..  x.  253).  In  1882,  Dr.  Boardman  Reed  (Therap.  Gaz.,  iii.  47) 
reported  the  rapid  and  painless  cure  of  acute  gonorrhoea,  as  Dupuy  and  others  had  already 
done,  but  with  the  co-operation  of  diet,  saline  laxatives,  and  astringent  injections.  Later 
observers,  however,  are  in  agreement  with  Sanne  (Bull,  de  Therap .,  cx.  199)  and  Rogers 
(Med.  Record , xxix.  525)  who  found,  that  the  cure  was  as  long  as  by  ordinary  methods, 
but  less  annoying  and  perturbating  than  that  by  cubebs  or  copaiba.  The  dose  of  the 
alcoholic  extract  given  by  Sanne  was  Gm.  0.13  (gr.  ij)  several  times  a day  ; and  that  of 
the  fluid  extract  from  Gm.  1.30-2  (npxx-xxx)  with  like  frequency. 


1026 


MATRICARIA. 


MATRICARIA,  U.  S. — Matricaria,  German  Chamomile. 

Flores  chamomillse^  P.  G;  Flores  chamomillse  vulgaris. — Camomille  commune  (d' Alle- 
magne ),  Fr.  Cod.  ; Kamille , Kamillen Hitmen . G. ; Manzanilla  comun , Sp. 

The  flowers  of  Matricaria  (Chrysanthemum,  j Bernhard!)  Chamomilla,  Linne , s.  Chamo- 
milla  oflicinalis,  Koch.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants.  155. 

Nat.  Ord. — Composite,  Senecionidese. 

Origin. — An  annual  herb,  with  a branching  stem  about  30  Cm.  (1  foot)  high,  smooth, 
twice-  or  thrice  pinnatifld  leaves,  with  spreading  setaceous  segments  and  numerous  flower- 
heads  terminating  the  slender  branches.  The  plant  is  common  in  fields  and  wraste  places 
throughout  Europe  as  far  north  as  Finland,  and  in  the  temperate  parts  of  Asia  ; it  has 
been  completely  naturalized  in  Australia,  and  is  occasionally  cultivated  in  German  settle- 


Fig.  181. 


ments  in  the  United  States.  The  flowers  appear  from  May  till  August ; on  drying,  from 
20  to  25  per  cent,  of  the  drug  is  obtained. 

Description. — The  flower-heads  are  12—18  Mm.  (|  to  f inch)  broad,  and  have  a flat- 
tish  involucre,  with  two  or  three  rows  of  small,  oblong-linear,  obtuse  scales  having  the 
margin  membranous.  The  receptacle  is  at  first  convex,  but  becomes  strongly  conical  and 
hollow,  and  is  free  from  chaff.  The  ray-florets  are  about  fifteen  in  number,  soon  reflexed, 
white,  ligulate-oblong,  with  two  notches  at  the  apex  and  enclosing  the  bifid  style,  but  no 
stamens.  The  numerous  yellow  disk-florets  are  tubular,  five-toothed,  somewhat  glandular, 
hermaphrodite,  and  have  the  anthers  united  into  a tube  through  which  the  bifid  style 
projects.  The  akenes  are  small,  curved,  finely  five-ribbed  on  the  inner  surface,  brownish, 
without  pappus,  but  with  a slightly  elevated  margin  at  the  apex.  German  chamomile- 
flowers  have  a peculiar  aromatic  odor  and  a bitterish  aromatic  taste.  They  are  easily  dis- 
tinguished from  allied  composite  plants  by  their  smooth,  conical,  and  hollow  disks,  which 
shrink  very  considerably  on  drying. 

The  similar  flower-heads  of  Anthemis  arvensis,  Linne , and  Maruta  Cotula,  De  Candolle. 
have  conical,  solid,  and  chaffy  receptacles. 

Constituents. — German  chamomile-flowers  contain  about  ? per  cent,  of  volatile  oil, 
some  bitter  extractive,  malates,  tannates,  and  a little  tannin,  besides  the  principles  common 
to  vegetables.  Pattone’s  anthemic  acid , isolated  (1859)  from  Anthemis  arvensis,  Linne, 
was  obtained  by  Werner  (1867)  from  the  official  flowers  by  exhausting  them  with  hot 
water  acidulated  with  acetic  acid,  concentrating,  precipitating  with  alcohol,  evaporating 
the  filtrate,  and  treating  with  chloroform.  It  is  described  as  colorless  silky  needles  hav- 
ing an  agreeable  odor  of  chamomile,  a strongly  bitter  taste,  and  dissolving  in  water, 
alcohol,  ether,  and  chloroform.  The  precipitate  obtained  with  alcohol  is  stated  to  contain 
a tasteless  crystalline  principle,  anthemidin , which  is  insoluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  and 
chloroform,  but  soluble  in  acetic  acid. 

The  volatile  oil,  Oleum  chamomillse  athereum,  is  a dark-blue,  in  thi 
parent,  thickish  liquid,  which  gradually  turns  green  and  brown  when 
and  air,  and  more  rapidly  if  obtained  from  dried  flowers ; it  has  a st: 
flowers  and  a warm,  aromatic  taste ; dissolves  in  about  8 parts  of  80  per  cent,  alcohol, 
has  the  specific  gravity  0.93,  and  seems  to  consist  of  a terpene,  C10HI6,  associated  with 
C10H18O.  The  volatile  oil  becomes  dark-brown  or  green  with  strong  or  diluted  nitric  acid, 
and  deep  red-brown  with  sulphuric  acid.  The  blue  color  is  due  to  the  presence  of  a 


n layers  trans- 
posed to  light 
ig  odor  of  the 


MEDEOLA  .—MEL. 


1027 


volatile  principle  which  was  named  azulene  by  Piesse  and  coerulein  by  Gladstone  (1863), 
and  which,  according  to  both  investigators,  is  present  in  all  other  volatile  oils  having  a 
blue  or  green  color — in  the  latter  associated  with  a yellow  principle. 

An  oil  of  German  chamomile,  containing  oil  of  lemon,  is  still  sometimes  met  with  in  our 
market  • it  was  formerly  official  in  Europe  as  Oleum  chamomillse  citratum , and  prepared 
bv  adding  to  180  parts  of  recently-collected  flowers  1 part  of  oil  of  lemon,  and  then  dis- 
tilling with  water  ; it  has  a deep-blue  color,  but  is  more  limpid  than  the  pure  oil  and 
more  prone  to  change  in  color. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparations.— Oleum  chamomillse  infusum  is  employed 
externally,  and  made  like  oleol  of  anthemis  (p.  216) ; it  has  a yellowish-green  color. 

Syrupus  chamomillse.  Prepare  an  infusion  from  3 parts  of  German  chamomile  with 
sufficient  hot  water  to  obtain  10  parts  of  filtered  liquid,  and  dissolve  in  this  18  parts  of 
sugar. — P.  G.  1872. 

Action  and  Uses. — German  chamomile  has  less  agreeable  qualities  than  English 
chamomile  (Anthemis),  but  medicinally  may  be  substituted  for  it. 

MEDEOLA. — Medeola. 

The  rhizome  of  Medeola  (Gyromia,  Nuttall ) virginica,  Linne.  Meehan,  Native  flowers, 

ii.  157. 

Nat.  Ord. — Liliacese. 

Origin. — The  medeola  or  Indian  cucumber  grows  in  damp  soil  in  woods  and  shady 
places  of  the  United  States  east  of  the  Mississippi,  and  flowers  in  May  and  June.  It  has 
a slender  stem,  about  45  Cm.  (18  inches)  high,  beset  with  a deciduous  fine  wool,  and 
bearing  above  its  middle  a whorl  of  six  or  eight  spreading  oblong-lanceolate  leaves,  which 
are  about  75  Mm.  (3  inches)  long,  and  acute  at  both  ends.  Near  the  top  is  a whorl  of 
three  or  four  smaller  ovate  pointed  leaves,  and  above  them  three  or  four  greenish-yellow 
recurved  flowers  having  six  sepals  and  stamens,  and  producing  a purplish-blue  three-celled 
berry,  each  cell  containing  about  five  triangular  seeds. 

Description. — The  rhizome  is  horizontal,  25-38  Mm.  (1  or  1J  inches)  long,  about 
6 Mm.  (I  inch)  thick,  pointed  at  the  lower  end,  beset  with  hair-like  simple  rootlets,  pale 
brown-yellowish  externally,  white  internally,  and  with  a few  small  wood-bundles.  It  is 
without  odor,  and  has  a sweetish,  in  the  fresh  state  somewhat  cucumber-like,  taste.  Its 
constituents,  among  which  is  starch,  have  not  been  investigated. 

Action  and  Uses. — Nothing  appears  to  have  been  added  for  many  years  to  the 
scanty  knowledge  originally  possessed  of  this  root — viz.  that  it  was  reputed  to  be  hydra- 
gogue  and  diuretic  and  therefore  useful  in  dropsies. 

MEL,  U.  S.,  Br.— Honey. 

Mid,  Fr.  Cod. ; Honig,  G. ; Mid,  Sp. 

A saccharine  secretion  deposited  in  the  honey-comb  by  Apis  mellifica,  Linne,  the  hive 
bee. 

(Mass  Insecta  ; Order  Hymenoptera. 

Properties. — When  recently  prepared,  honey  is  a translucent  or  nearly  transparent, 
pale-yellowish  or  brownish,  thick,  syrupy  liquid,  which,  on  keeping,  separates  a granular 
deposit,  and  is  ultimately  changed  into  a crystalline  mass  intermixed  with  some  liquid. 
It  is  stated  that  California  honey  gathered  in  May  becomes  granular  in  a few  days,  but 
if  taken  later  in  the  season  remains  liquid  for  a long  time.  It  has  a slight  acid  reaction, 
an  agreeable  odor,  varying  more  or  less  from  causes  mentioned  above,  and  a sweet  taste, 
followed  by  a slight  acridity.  E.  Dieterich  (1877)  ascertained  that,  by  dialyzing  honey 
into  water  the  dialyzed  portion,  on  concentration,  had  a golden-yellow  color  and  a remark- 
ably fine  floral  odor,  while  the  residue  upon  the  dialyzer  was  destitute  of  honey  odor  and 
had  a sweet  but  insipid  taste.  In  some  parts  of  Africa  a brown,  and  even  greenish, 
honey  has  been  observed,  which  may  be  produced  by  different  species  of  Apis. 

Honey  dissolves  readily  in  water,  also  in  diluted  alcohol,  yielding  in  both  cases  slightly 
turbid  solutions  which  have  a faint  acid  reaction.  A mixture  of  honey  with  2 parts  of 
water  should  have  a specific  gravity  not  lower  than  1.100  ( U.  S.),  which  corresponds  to  a 
specific  gravity  of  1.375  for  the  original  honey. 

Constituents. — The  odor  of  honey  is  doubtless  due  to  a minute  quantity  of  volatile 
oil,  which,  according  to  Calloud,  is  intimately  associated  with  a yellow  coloring  matter, 
mclichroin,  separated  by  the  nectaries  and  bleached  on  exposure  to  sunlight.  Small 


1028 


MEL. 


quantities  of  wax  and  gummy  matter  are  usually  present,  and  A.  Vogel  (1882)  found  in 
crude  honey  about  .1  per  cent,  of  formic  acid*  which  appears  to  preserve  it  from  decompo- 
sition ; but  the  main  constituents  are  grape-sugar  or  dextrose  and  fruit-sugar  or  levulose,  of 
each  of  which  from  32  to  42  per  cent.,  or  a total  of  about  72  to  78  or  80  per  cent.,  is 
present.  The  honey  of  an  American  wasp,  Polybia  apicipennis,  Saussure , according  to 
Karsten  (1857),  contains  cane-sugar,  and  the  same  may  be  the  case  with  honey  from 
other  sources ; this  constituent,  however,  is  gradually  changed  to  invert-sugar , which  is 
a mixture  of  grape-  and  fruit-sugars.  It  is  the  grape-sugar  which  renders  honey  gran- 
ular, while  the  fruit-sugar  remains  liquid  ; the  former  turns  polarized  light  to  the  right, 
the  latter  to  the  left.  The  albuminates,  mucilaginous  matter,  pollen,  and  wax  present 
in  honey  vary  between  about  0.5  and  1 or  2 per  cent. ; the  ash  left  on  incineration  is 
generally  between  .12  and  .16  per  cent.,  and,  according  to  Hager,  should  not  exceed  .5 
per  cent. 

Adulterations. — The  coarse  adulteration  with  starchy  substances  is  easily  recog- 
nized in  the  soluble  matter  left  on  treating  with  alcohol,  and  by  the  blue  color  produced 
on  the  addition  of  solution  of  iodine.  Adulterations  with  artificial  grape-sugar  prepared 
from  starch  by  boiling  with  sulphuric  acid  are  difficult  to  establish ; aside  from  the  phys- 
ical properties,  the  presence  of  soluble  sulphate  (of  calcium)  affords  the  best  criterion. 
Beet-root  molasses  contains  chlorides,  and  if  used  for  adulterating  honey  causes  a white 
precipitate  with  silver  nitrate.  Starch-paste,  added  with  the  view  of  rendering  honey 
thick,  is  deposited  as  a jelly-like,  stringy  mass  on  dilution  with  water.  Neither  crude 
honey  nor  honey  clarified  by  the  process  of  the  U.  S.  P.  yields  with  water  an  absolutely 
clear  solution.  The  tests  given  by  the  pharmacopoeias  are  as  follows : “ If  1 part  of 
honey  be  dissolved  in  4 parts  of  water,  a clear  solution  should  result,  which  should  not 
be  rendered  more  than  faintly  opalescent  by  a few  drops  of  test  solution  of  silver  nitrate 
(limit  of  chlorides)  or  of  barium  nitrate  (limit  of  sulphates).  If  a small  portion  of  honey 
be  diluted  with  1 volume  of  water  and  then  gradually  mixed  with  5 volumes  of  absolute 
alcohol,  it  should  not  become  more  than  faintly  opalescent,  and  should  neither  become 
opaque  nor  deposit  a slimy  substance  at  the  bottom  and  along  the  sides  of  the  test-tube 
(starch,  dextrin).  When  incinerated  in  small  portions  at  a time  in  a platinum  crucible, 
it  should  not  leave  more  than  0.2  per  cent,  of  ash  (any  larger  percentage  of  ash  and  fail- 
ure to  respond  to  the  preceding  tests  indicating  the  presence  of  glucose  or  other  foreign 
admixtures).  Water  boiled  with  honey  and  allowed  to  cool  should  not  be  rendered  blue 
or  green  on  the  addition  of  test  solution  of  iodine  (absence  of  starch).” — XJ.  S. 

Action  and  Uses. — Honey  is  one  of  the  most  ancient  of  medicines,  and  its  nutri- 
tious qualities  were  always  well  known.  Medical  history  shows  that  the  Greeks  and 
Arabians  were  well  acquainted  with  its  uses  and  the  noxious  qualities  of  certain  kinds 
of  it.  Honey  may  be  used  with  other  food  without  any  unpleasant  effects  in  most 
instances,  but  there  are  persons  who  cannot  take  even  a small  quantity  of  it  without 
feeling  the  head  heavy  or  confused,  while  in  others  it  causes  flatulence  or  diarrhoea. 
Among  the  plants  which  are  frequented  by  bees  producing  poisonous  honey  are  Nerium 
oleander,  Azalea  pontica,  Daphne  mezereum,  Aconitum,  and  Kalmia  latifolia.  The  last,  or 
mountain-laurel,  is  the  chief  source  of  poisonous  honey  in  this  country.  The  symptoms 
it  produces  are  dimness  of  sight,  vertigo,  a mild  or  furious  delirium,  abdominal  pain,  vom- 
iting and  purging,  perspiration,  convulsions,  foaming  at  the  mouth,  and,  in  a few  instances, 
death.  In  some  cases  an  eruption  also  appears  upon  the  skin,  and  there  is  soreness  of  the 
throat  with  hoarseness  of  the  voice.  Eucalyptus  honey  is  reported  to  reduce  the  pulse 
and  temperature  in  dogs,  but  in  man  to  incite  a glow  throughout  the  body,  and  to 
increase  the  respiratory  power  and  the  urinary  secretion ; and  to  have  been  used  with 
advantage  in  diseases  of  the  urinary  tract  ( Amer . Journ.  Pharm .,  lix.  471).  Its  peculiar 
virtues  appear  to  depend  on  the  eucalyptus  oil  it  contains. 

Anciently,  honey  was  employed  for  most  of  the  medicinal  purposes  for  which  sugar  is 
now  used,  and  especially  with  barley-water  for  bronchial  affections  and  sore  throats.  Its 
present  use  is  almost  exclusively  local  and  for  the  same  purposes  as  of  old,  and  particu- 
larly to  stimulate  mucous  surfaces,  and  even  cutaneous  soTes,  when  their  condition  denotes 
impaired  vitality.  It  is  habitually  employed  in  gargles  to  cure  aphthae , thrush , and  pseudo- 
membranous deposits , but  its  efficacy  is  increased  by  the  addition  of  muriatic  acid,  sodium 
borate,  potassium  chlorate,  etc.  Honey  of  rose  is  official.  Sodium  borate,  in  the  propor- 
tion of  60  grains  to  an  ounce  of  honey,  is  a very  convenient  application  to  aphthm,  etc. 
of  the  female  genital  organs.  Honey  is  sometimes  used  as  an  ingredient  of  poultices  tor 
boils  and  carbuncles , as  an  application  to  fssures  of  the  nipple , etc.,  and  is  applied  in 
plasters  to  the  mammae  for  drying  up  the  milk. 


MEL  D ESP UM A T UM.—MEL  ROSM 


1029 


In  this  connection  it  may  be  mentioned  that  propolis , a resinous  exudation  with  which 
bees  cover  the  bottom  of  their  hive,  is  reported  to  be  beneficial  in  the  treatment  of  acute 
and  chronic  diarrhoea. 


MEL  DESPUMATUM,  V.  Clarified  Honey. 

Mel  depuration , Br.,  P.  G. — Miel  despume , Mellite  simple , Sirop  de  miel , Fr. ; Gereimgter 

Honig,  G. 

Preparation. — Honey,  a convenient  quantity  ; Glycerin,  a sufficient  quantity.  Mix 
the  honey  intimately  with  2 per  cent,  of  its  weight  of  paper-pulp,  which  has  been  pre- 
viously reduced  to  shreds,  thoroughly  washed  and  soaked  in  water  and  then  strongly 
expressed  and  again  shredded.  Then  apply  the  heat  of  a water-batli,  and,  as  long  as  any 
scum  rises  to  the  surface,  carefully  remove  this.  Finally,  strain  and  mix  the  strained 
liquid  with  5 per  cent,  of  its  weight  of  glycerin. — U.  S. 

The  object  of  clarification  is  to  remove  the  wax  and  other  impurities  of  honey,  which 
rise  to  the  surface  when  the  honey  is  kept  for  a while  in  the  condition  of  a thin  fluid  by 
exposing  it  to  the  heat  of  a water-bath  ; in  the  above  process  the  impurities  are  more 
effectually  removed  by  aid  of  the  paper-pulp,  and  the  final  addition  of  glycerin  is  for  the 
purpose  of  better  preservation. 

The  Br.  Ph.  simply  directs  that  honey  shall  be  melted  in  a water-bath  and  strained 
while  hot  through  flannel  previously  moistened  with  warm  water.  The  process  of  the 
French  Codex  is  similar  to  that  of  the  U.  S.  P.,  except  that  the  honey  is  first  diluted 
with  one-fourth  its  weight  of  water ; no  glycerin  is  used.  The  Ger.  Ph.  orders  that 
honey  (of  which  10  Gm.  require  not  more  than  0.5  Cc.  of  normal  potassa  solution  for 
neutralization),  mixed  with  one  and  a half  times  its  weight  of  water,  shall  be  digested  at 
100°  C.  (212°  F.)  for  one  hour,  cooled  to  50°  C.  (122°  F.),  then  strained  through  flannel, 
and  rapidly  concentrated  on  a water-bath  until  a density  of  1.33  is  obtained.  Various 
other  methods  have  been  suggested  involving  the  use  of  different  clarifying  agents,  such 
as  white  of  egg,  gelatin  and  tannin,  animal  charcoal,  aluminum  hydroxide,  Irish  moss, 
etc.,  but  all  require  dilution  of  the  honey  with  water  and  subsequent  concentration  by 
heat,  which  is  apt  to  darken  the  color  and  impair  the  aroma.  In  our  experience  the  first- 
mentioned  process  yields  quite  a satisfactory  result. 

Properties  and  Tests. — These  should  correspond  to  those  mentioned  under  Crude 
Honey.  „ 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Clarified  honey  is  used  as  an  excipient  for  some  pill  masses 
and  confections,  and  also  as  a basis  of  mellita. 

Mellita. — Medicated  honeys,  E. ; Mellites,  Fr. ; Honige,  G. — These  are  simply  mix- 
tures of  honey  with  certain  medical  substances.  Owing  to  their  proneness  to  change, 
the  number  of  these  official  mixtures  has  been  considerably  diminished,  and  with  but 
few  exceptions  none  are  kept  on  hand,  but  are  prepared  extemporaneously  when  required 
by  the  physician. 

Oxymellita. — Oxymels,  E .,  Fr. ; Sauerhonige,  G. — are  medicated  honeys  containing 
acetic  acid.  (See  Oxymel.) 

MEL  BORACIS,  Br . — Borax  Honey. 

Mel  sodii  boratis. — Honey  of  sodium  borate , E. ; Mellite  de  borax , Miel  borate , Fr. ; 
Boraxhonig , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Borax,  in  fine  powder,  60  grains  (2  parts) ; Glycerin  30 
grains  (1  part) ; Clarified  Honey  480  grains  (16  parts).  Mix. — Br. 

Uses. — It  is  made  extemporaneously,  and  is  applied  to  most  of  the  local  affections 
enumerated  in  the  article  on  honey. 


MEL  ROSiE,  U.  S. — Honey  of  Rose. 

Mel  rosatum , P.  G. ; Mellitum  rosatum. — Mellite  de  roses  rouges , Miel  rosat , Fr. ; Rosen- 

honig , G. 

Preparation. — Fluid  Extract  of  Rose,  120  Cc. ; Clarified  Honey,  a sufficient  quantity  ; 
to  make  1000  Gm.  Into  a tared  vessel  introduce  the  fluid  extract  of  Rose,  then  add 
enough  clarified  honey  to  make  the  contents  weigh  1000  Gm.,  and  mix  them  thoroughly. 

If  it  is  desired  to  make  this  preparation  entirely  by  measure,  120  Cc.  of  fluid  extract 
of  rose  should  be  mixed  with  630  Cc.  of  clarified  honey,  or  if  12  fluidrachms  of  the  fluid 


1030 


MELILOTUS. 


extract  be  mixed  with  8 fluidounces  of  clarified  honey,  the  official  strength  will  be  practi- 
cally maintained. 

The  present  official  honey  of  rose  is  50  per  cent,  stronger  than  that  of  1880,  the  latter 
Pharmacopoeia  having  directed  only  8 parts  of  rose  for  every  100  of  finished  product. 
The  French  Codex  directs  rose-leaves  to  be  infused  in  water  (1  part  in  6 of  water),  and 
the  infusion,  after  straining,  to  be  mixed  with  6 parts  of  honey  and  evaporated  to  a den- 
sity of  1.27.  The  Ger.  Ph.  requires  that  1 part  of  rose-petals  shall  be  macerated  with 
5 parts  of  diluted  alcohol  for  twenty-four  hours ; the  expressed  liquid  to  be  mixed  with 
9 parts  of  clarified  honey  and  1 part  of  glycerin,  and  evaporated  to  10  parts. 

Action  and  Uses. — Its  agreeable  flavor  and  slight  astringent  and  stimulant  virtues 
render  it  a very  pleasant  and  useful  addition  to  water  as  a mouth-wash  and  gargle  in  cases 
of  sore  mouth  and  sore  throat , or  it  may  be  applied  undiluted  to  the  affected  part.  It  is  a 
convenient  vehicle  for  the  administration  of  aromatic  sulphuric  acid  and  other  acids. 


MELILOTUS, — Melilot. 

Herba  ( Summitates ) meliloti , P.  G. ; Sweet  clover , E. ; Melilot  officinal , Fr.  Cod. ; Steinklee , 
Melilotenklee , G. ; Meliloto , Trebol  oloroso , Sp. 


Nat.  Ord. — Leguminosae,  Papilionaceae. 

The  leaves  and  flowering  branches  of  Melilotus  officinalis,  Desrousseaux  (Mel.  arvensis, 
Wallroth , Mel.  diffusa,  Koch),  and  of  Mel.  altissimus,  Thuilliers  (Mel.  officinalis,  Willdenow, 
Mel.  macrorrhizus,  Per  soon). 

Origin— Both  plants  are  indigenous  to  Europe,  the  first  species  having  an  ascending 
stem  0*5-1  M.  (20  to  40  inches)  long,  and  growing  in  dry  fields  and  along  roadsides ; its 
pale  yellow  flowers  have  a short  carina  and  produce  obovate,  transversely-wrinkled,  mostly 
one-seeded  legumes.  The  second  species  has  been  naturalized  in  the  United  States,  grows 
in  meadows  and  damp  places,  has  an  erect  stem  0.9— 1.5  M.  (3  to  five  feet)  high,  the  flowers 
bright  yellow,  with  the  carina  as  long  as  the  standard  and  wings,  and  the  legume  obliquely 
oval,  pointed,  pubescent,  reticulately  wrinkled,  and  two-seeded.^  Both  plants  flower  from 
July  to  September,  and  on  drying  acquire  an  agreeable  odor  of  coumarin. 

Description. — The  stipules  are  entire,  awl-shaped  ; the  petiolate  trifoliate  leaves  have 
oval  or  obovate-oblong  leaflets,  the  lower  ones  notched,  the  upper  ones  truncate  at  the 
apex,  entire  near  the  base,  and  somewhat  sharply  serrate  above,  about  2 to  b Cm.  (4  to  1| 
inches)  long ; th%  flowers  are  in  spreading  or  ascending  racemes,  and  the  reflexed  legumes 
are  brown  or  blackish.  The  drug  has  a strong  agreeable  odor  and  a bitterish,  aromatic, 
and  somewhat  pungent  taste. 


Allied  Plant  —Melilotus  albus,  Desrousseaux  (M.  vulgaris,  Willdenow).  White  melilot  is 
indigenous  to  Europe  and  naturalized  in  the  United  States-,  it  resembles  the  preceding  species, 
but  has  white  flowers,  the  petals  of  which  are  unequal,  the  standard  being  longest. 

Constituents  — The  odorous  principle  was  observed  by  Vogel  (1820)  and  supposed 
to  be  benzoic  acid.  Guillemette  (1835)  proved  it  to  be  identical  with  Guibourt’s  cou- 
marin, obtained  from  tonka  beans,  and  which  exists  also  in  some  rubiaceous  plants.  (See 
Galium  ) It  may  be  prepared  by  exhausting  the  herb  with  strong  alcohol,  distilling  oil 
most  of  the  solvent,  separating  the  fat,  crystallizing,  and  purifying  by  recry stallization 
from  alcohol.  Coumarin,  C9H602,  which  has  since  been  isolated  from  many  odorous 
plants  (see  pp.  763  and  936),  crystallizes  in  colorless  shining  prisms,  which  fuse  at  6 i 
C (152  6°  F ) and  are  readily  soluble  in  fixed  and  volatile  oils,  alcohol,  and  hot  water. 
It  was  obtained  artificially  by  W.  H.  Perkin  (1867)  by  treating  salicyl-aldehyde  with 
sodium,  and  decomposing  the  compound  with  acetic  anhydride.  When  treated  with 
sodium  amalgam  it  is  converted  into  melilotic  and  coumaric  acids,  which  are  also  present 
in  the  herb,  sometimes  in  combination  with  coumarin.  Both  acids  are  crystallizable.  and 
have  a bitter  taste.  Melilotic  acid,  C9H10O3,  fuses  at  82°  C.  (179.6°  F.),  and  its  salts, 
when  strongly  heated,  yield  phenol.  Coumaric  acid,  C9H803,  is  also  obtained  from  cou- 
marin by  boiling  it  with  concentrated  potassa  solution ; it  fuses  at  195°  C.  (383  4.),  ana 
the  solutions  of  its  salts  are  fluorescent.  , , , 

Tonka  beans,  E.,  F&ve  tonka,  Fr.,  Tonkabohnen,  G .,  Haba  tonka,  Sp.,  are  seeds 
of  a papilionaceous  tree  of  Guiana,  Dipteryx  (Coumarouna,  Aublet)  odorata,  Willdenow. 
They  are  nearly  5 Cm.  (2  inches)  long,  somewhat  two-edged,  deeply  wrinkled,  blackisn- 
brown  of  a fatty  lustre,  and  usually  covered  with  a crystalline  eflloresence  of  coumarin. 
The  so-called  English  tonka  beans,  from  Dip.  oppositifolia,  Willdenow,  are  smaller,  about 
an  inch  (25  Mm.)  long,  smoother,  and  contain  less  coumarin. 


MELISSA. 


1031 


Pharmaceutical  Preparation. — Emplastrum  meliloti.  Melt  together  4 parts 
of  yellow  wax  and  1 part  each  of  turpentine  and  olive  oil,  and  while  cooling  add  2 parts 
of  powdered  melilot. — P.  G .,  1872. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  peculiar  odor  of  melilot,  which  is  closely  analogous  to  that 
of  tonka  bean,  of  vanilla-grass,  etc.,  as  well  as  its  active  properties,  are  attributed  to  a 
proximate  principle,  coumarin.  In  Europe  melilot  is  sometimes  strewn  among  clothing 
to  protect  them  from  moths,  and  is  mixed  with  snuff  to  scent  it.  Formerly  it  was  used 
in  a variety  of  disorders,  including  colic,  diarrhoea,  dysury,  dysmenorrhoea,  and  rheuma- 
tism. but  at  present  it  is  only  applied  externally,  in  decoction  or  infusion  or  in  plasters  or 
or  ointments,  to  allay  local  pains,  especially  in  the  abdomen  and  joints.  The  liquid  prepa- 
rations named  are  made  with  the  flowering-tops  in  water  Gm.  16-32  to  Gm.  500  (^ss-j 
in  Oj). 


MELISSA,  U.  S. — Melissa. 


Folia  ( Herba ) melissse,  P.  G. — Balm,  Lemon  balm , E. ; Melisse  officinale,  Fr.  Cod.  ; 
Celine , Herbe  au  citron,  Fr.  ; Melissenblatter,  Citronenkraut,  G. ; Toronjil , Sp. 


The  leaves  and  tops  of  Melissa  officinalis,  Linne. 

Nat.  Orel. — Labiatae,  Satureineae. 

Origin. — Balm  is  a perennial  herb,  from  the  woody  root-stock  of  which  a number  of 
branching,  pubescent  stems  0.6-1. 2 M.  (2  to  4 feet)  high,  are  produced.  The  plant  is 
indigenous  to  Western  Asia  and  Southern  Europe,  has  become  naturalized  to  some  extent 
in  the  United  States,  and  is  not  unfrequently  cultivated.  The  variety  a citrata,  Bischoff, 
or  lemon  balm,  is  generally  preferred,  and  is  alone  recognized  by  some  of  the  European 
pharmacopoeias.  On  drying,  the  fresh  leaves  lose  about  75  per  cent,  of  their  weight. 

Description. — The  leaves  are  3-5  Cm.  (11  to  2 inches)  long,  petiolate,  ovate,  with 
a rounded  or  somewhat  heart-shaped  base,  coarsely  crenate-serrate  at  the  margin,  obtusely 
pointed  at  the  apex,  the  upper  surface  with  scattered  hairs,  the  lower  surface  glandular 
in  the  axils  of  the  nerves.  The  upper  leaves  are  smaller,  often  slowly  pubescent  on  both 
sides,  and  at  the  base  rather  wedge-shaped.  The  axillary  cymules  are  about  four-flow- 
ered ; the  calyx  is  hairy,  tubular  bell-shaped,  with  the  upper  lip  three-toothed  and  the 
lower  two-cleft.  The  milk-white  or  pale-purplish  corolla  has  the  tube  curved  upward, 
the  upper  lip  notched  and  the  lower  three-lobed,  with  the  lowest  lobe  largest ; the 
stamens  are  four  in  number,  the  lower  pair  longer,  all  converging  toward  the  upper  lip. 
The  dried  herb  has  a mild  agreeable  odor,  in  the  variety  mentioned  above  somewhat  like 
that  of  lemon  ; the  taste  is  slightly  bitter. 

Melissa  cordifolia,  Persoon,  of  Southern  Europe  has  larger  and  more  woolly  leaves  of  a 
rather  disagreeable  odor ; it  is  now  regarded  as  a variety  of  M.  officinalis. 

Cedronella  Mexicana,  Bentham,  and  C.  pallida,  Lindley,  are  used  as  substitutes  for 
melissa  in  Mexico. 


Adulterations  are  not  likely  to  be  met  with.  The  leaves  of  Nepeta  cataria,  Linne , 
var.  /S  citriodora,  have  an  odor  resembling  that  of  lemon  balm,  but  they  are  cordate-ovate, 
of  a gray-green  color,  soft  downy  above  and  tomentose  beneath,  and  by  these  characters 
are  easily  distinguished  from  melissa. 

Constituents. — The  leaves  contain,  besides  the  common  constituents  of  plants,  a 
small  quantity  of  tannin  and  bitter  principle  and  about  £ to  \ per  cent,  of  volatile  oil, 
which  is  colorless  or  yellowish,  has  a spec.  grav.  of  about  0.89,  dissolves  in  about  5 parts 
of  alcohol,  spec.  grav.  0.85,  and  contains  a stearopten. 

Pogostemon  Patchouly,  Pelletier  (Pog.  suave,  Tenore ),  is  an  East  Indian,  hairy,  suf- 
fruticose  plant,  with  petiolate  ovate  or  rhombic-ovate,  doubly  crenate-serrate  leaves  of  a 
strong,  aromatic  odor.  The  volatile  oil  of  patchouly  is  brownish-yellow,  and  begins  to 
boil  at  about  257°  C.  (495°  F.),  but  the  greater  part  distils  near  285°  C.  (545°  F.).  It 
contains  a hydrocarbon  (Gladstone)  and  a liquid  oil,  having  the  same  composition  as  the 
the  stearopten  present,  C15H.260  (Montgolfier,  1877),  which  after  purification  melts  at  55° 
C . (131°  I . ) . 

Pharmaceutical  Preparations. — Aqua  melissse,  P.  G.  Take  1 part  of  balm- 
leaves  and  sufficient  water;  distil  10  parts. 

Spiritus  melissje  composites. — Compound  spirit  of  balm,  E.  ; Eau  des  Carmes,  Fr. ; 
Karmelitergeist,  6r. — Take  of  balm  14  parts;  lemon-peel,  12  parts;  nutmeg,  6 parts;  cin- 
namon and  cloves,  each  3 parts  ; alcohol,  150  parts  ; and  water,  250  parts  ; distil  200  parts. 
-~I . G.  The  French  Codex  gives  a similar  formula,  and  directs  for  the  above  quantity 
of  spirit  nearly  2 parts  each  of  coriander  and  angelica  in  addition  to  the  other  ingredients 


1032 


MENISPERM  UM.— MENTHA  PIPERITA. 


Action  and  Uses. — Balm  tea  is  a popular  and  refreshing  drink  when  made  with 
the  fresh  plant  and  taken  cold.  A hot  infusion  of  the  dried  plant,  Gm.  5—10  in  Gm.  100 
(gli-21?  in  giij)  is  one  of  the  mildest  that  can  be  used  to  favor  the  operation  of  diapho- 
retic medicines. 


MENISPERMUM,  TJ.  S% — Menispermum. 

Canadian  moonseed , Yellow  parilla,  E. ; Menisperme  du  Canada , Fr. ; Canadisches  Mond- 
korn , G. 

The  rhizome  and  roots  of  Menispermum  canadense,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Memspermaceae. 

Origin. — This  is  a North  American  climber,  with  peltate,  roundish-cordate,  and  angu- 
lar leaves,  small  clusters  of  greenish-yellow  flowers,  and  black,  glaucous,  roundish  kidney- 
shaped drupes.  The  rhizome  was  formerly  brought  into  commerce  as  Texas  sarsaparilla , 
and  its  botanical  source  was  established  by  R.  P.  Thomas  (1855). 

Description. — The  rhizome  is  several  feet  long,  about  5 Mm.  (-J-  inch)  thick,  of  a 
yellowish-brown  color,  cylindrical  when  dry,  with  numerous  fine  longitudinal  wrinkles,  and 
beset  with  thin  branching  rather  brittle  rootlets.  Internally  it  is  yellowish,  breaks  with 
a tough  fibrous  fracture,  and  exhibits  on  transverse  section  a bark  of  about  one-tenth  the 
diameter  of  the  rhizome  and  composed  of  two  distinct  layers,  a woody  zone  consisting  of 
about  fourteen  rather  broad  porous  wood-wedges  separated  by  medullary  rays  of  nearly 
the  same  width,  and  a large  central  pith.  The  rhizome  has  a slight  odor  and  a bitter 
taste. 

Constituents. — We  found  (1863)  the  rhizome  to  contain  a small  quantity  of  ber- 
berine  and  a larger  proportion  of  a white  alkaloid,  which  has  a bitter  taste,  neutralizes 
acids  completely,  and  yields  precipitates  with  the  group  reagents  for  alkaloids.  H.  L. 
Barber  (1884)  found  this  alkaloid  to  differ  from  oxyacanthine  and  menispermine,  and  to 
be  insoluble  in  benzene  and  alkaline  liquids;  it  dissolves  in  75  parts  of  water,  in  6 parts 
of  alcohol,  in  40  parts  of  ether,  and  in  20  parts  of  chloroform,  and  gives  with  sulphuric 
acid  a brown  color,  gradually  fading ; with  nitric  acid,  a yellow  color ; and  with  fused 
zinc  chloride,  a brownish-yellow  color.  We  propose  for  this  alkaloid  the  name  menispine. 
The  rhizome  also  contains  starch,  gum,  resin,  tannin,  and  other  common  constituents 
of  plants. 

Action  and  Uses. — It  has  been  reputed  for  many  years  that  menispermum  is 
tonic,  alterative,  and  diuretic,  and  that  its  medicinal  qualities  are  similar  to  those  of  sar- 
saparilla. It  much  more  probably  resembles  calumba,  not  so  much  because,  like  that 
medicine,  it  yields  berberine,  as  because  it  is  bitter.  We  read  that  it  is  used  in  scrofulous 
affections  as  a substitute  for  sarsaparilla,  but  without  the  assurance  that  the  latter  medi- 
cine is  itself  of  demonstrable  utility  in  their  treatment.  Whatever  virtues  it  may 
possess  await  discovery  by  intelligent  investigation. 

MENTHA  PIPERITA,  TJ.  Peppermint. 

Folia  ( Herba ) menthse  piperitse , P.  G. ; Menthe  poivree , Fr.  Cod. ; Pfejferminze , G. ; 
Yerba  buena  piperita , Sp. 

The  leaves  and  tops  of  Mentha  piperita,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants, 
203. 

Nat.  Ord. — Labiatae,  Satureieae. 

Origin. — Peppermint  is  a perennial  plant,  readily  multiplying  by  runners,  and  with  a 
square  frequently  purplish  stem,  about  90  Cm.  (3  feet)  high.  Its  native  country  is 
unknown ; it  is  regarded  as  a mere  variety  of  M.  hirsuta,  Linne , with  which  it  is  con- 
nected by  many  intermediate  forms,  and  from  which  it  was  probably  produced  by  cultiva- 
tion. It  is  now  found  wild  in  wet  places  in  England,  in  other  countries  of  Europe,  and 
in  North  America  ; it  is  largely  cultivated.  It  flowers  in  August  and  September.  The 
moisture  of  the  fresh  herb  amounts  to  about  80  per  cent. 

Description. — The  leaves  are  50-75  Mm.  (2  to  3 inches)  long,  and  all  petiolate,  the 
petioles  being  about  12  Mm.  (^  inch)  long;  they  vary  in  shape  between  lanceolate  and 
ovate  lanceolate,  have  a rounded  base,  an  acute  apex,  and  a sharply  serrate  margin ; the 
upper  surface  is  dark-green  and  smooth,  the  lower  surface  paler  with  numerous  glands, 
and  upon  the  nerves  sparingly  pubescent.  The  inflorescence  is  terminal,  and  consists  of 
twelve  to  sixteen  whorls,  the  lowest  of  which  are  somewhat  distant ; it  is  conical  in  shape, 
rounded  or  somewhat  acute  above,  and  5 Cm.  (2  inches)  long ; the  cymules  of  each 


MENTHA  VIRIDIS. 


1033 


Mentha  piperita,  Linne : 


flower  and  corolla  cut  open,  magi 
8 diameters. 


ified 


whorl  contain  about  twenty  or  thirty  flowers.  The  calyx,  is  often  purplish,  tubular, 
five-toothed,  ten-ribbed,  glabrous,  but 

dotted  with  yellowish  glands.  The  co-  FlG* 

rolla  is  pale  purplish-red  and  smooth, 
with  the  tube  about  as  long  as  the 
calyx,  and  the  limb  nearly  equally 
four-lobed,  and  the  upper  lobe  emar- 
ginate.  The  four  short  stamens  are 
equal  in  length,  and  included  in  the 
tube.  The  fruit  consists  of  four 
brownish  smooth  or  rugose  akenes. 

The  herb  has  a strong  peculiar  aro- 
matic odor  and  a pungent  and  cool- 
ing taste. 

Several  varieties  are  known,  differ- 
ing in  the  width  of  the  leaves,  the 
amount  of  pubescence,  and  the  com- 
pactness of  the  flowering  spikes.  In 
Mexico  Hedroma  piperita,  Bentham , is  used  in  the  same  manner  as  peppermint. 

Constituents. — The  most  important  constituent  is  the  volatile  oil  to  which  the 
drug  owes  its  odor  and  taste,  and  of  which  the  dried  herb  yields  in  the  neighborhood  of  1 
per  cent.  (See  Ol.  Menth^e  Piperita.)  A little  tannin  and  the  other  constituents  are 
of  no  medicinal  importance.  (For  Menthol,  see  page  1034.) 

Pharmaceutical  Preparations. — Species  aromatics,  P.  G. — Aromatic  herbs, 
E. ; Especes  (Herbes)  aromatique,  Fr. ; Aromatische  Krauter,  G. — Peppermint,  wild 
thyme,  garden  thyme,  and  lavender-flowers,  of  each  2 parts ; cloves  and  cubebs,  of  each 
1 part.  Cut  and  bruise  separately,  separate  the  fine  powder,  and  mix. — P.  G.  Pepper- 
mint, sage,  wild  thyme,  garden  thyme,  rosemary,  hyssop,  origanum,  and  wormwood,  of 
each  1 part. — F.  P. 

Syrupus  MENTHiE  (piperita). — Syrup  of  peppermint,  E.;  Sirop  de  menthe  poivree, 
Fr. ; Pfefferminzsyrup,  G. — Dissolve  60  parts  of  sugar  in  40  parts  of  infusion  prepared 
from  10  parts  of  peppermint,  50  parts  of  water  and  5 parts  of  alcohol. — P.  G. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  name,  “peppermint,”  describes  the  sharp,  biting  taste  of 
this  plant,  whose  odor  when  fresh  is  likewise  very  powerful,  but  refreshing.  In  the 
mouth  it  produces  a pungent  sensation,  followed  by  a sense  of  coolness  and  numbness, 
increased  by  inhaling  strongly.  The  essential  oil  occasions  this  feeling  more  sensibly,  as 
well  as  a diffusive  warmth  in  the  abdomen,  when  it  is  swallowed.  The  action  of  pepper- 
mint is  mainly  that  of  a carminative  stimulant,  with  a certain  degree  of  anodyne  power, 
which  last  is  especially  recognized  by  the  popular  use  of  the  bruised  fresh  leaves  to  allay 
colic , headache , and  other  local  pains.  A hot  infusion  is  commonly  employed  to  relieve 
colic , flatulence , diarrhoea , vomiting , cholera  morbus , dysmenorrhoea , and  the  associated 
abdominal  pains.  Nervous  headache,  palpitation  of  the  heart , hiccup , and  other  phenomena 
of  difficult  digestion  are  palliated  by  this  medicine.  The  hot  or  warm  infusion,  especially 
when  made  with  from  half  an  ounce  to  an  ounce  of  the  fresh  herb  to  a pint  6m.  15— 
32  to  Gm.  500,  (,^ss— j in  Oj)  of  water  is  a very  excellent  preparation.  It  may  be  given 
in  tablespoonful  doses.  Usually  the  water  or  the  spirit  is  more  convenient,  given  in 
sweetened  hot  water.  The  special  virtues  of  the  oil  are  described  elsewhere. 


MENTHA  VIRIDIS,  77.  S.— Spearmint. 

Herba  menthse  acutae  (yel  romanae). — Menthe  verte , Fr.  Cod.  ; Menthe  romaine , Baume 
vert , Fr. ; Griine  Minze , Romische  Minze , G. ; Yerba  buena,  Sp. 

The  leaves  and  tops  of  Mentha  viridis,  Linne,  s.  M.  sylvestris,  var.  glabra,  Koch. 
Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 202. 

Nat.  Ord. — Labiatae,  Satureieae. 

Origin. — Spearmint  is  a perennial  herb  with  a square  green  or  sometimes  purplish 
stem  about  90  Cm.  (3  feet)  high,  and  multiplying  extensively  by  long  runners.  It  is 
probably  a cultivated  variety  of  M.  sylvestris,  Jjinne,  the  typical  form  of  which  has 
broader  woolly  leaves  and  a cylindrical  or  subconical  inflorescence,  and  is  frequently 
found  in  moist  and  swampy  localities  throughout  the  greater  portion  of  Europe.  Spear- 
mint appears  to  be  indigenous  to  England,  but  it  is  cultivated  and  has  been  naturalized 


1034 


MENTHOL. 


in  the  United  States  and  most  civilized  countries.  It  flowers  from  July  to  September; 
on  drying,  its  weight  diminishes  from  80  to  85  per  cent. 

Description. — The  leaves  are  sessile,  or  only  the  lowest  with  a very  short  petiole, 
about  5 Cm.  (2  inches)  long,  lanceolate,  acute,  serrate,  smooth  or  sparingly  hairy,  and 
densely  glandular  beneath.  The  inflorescence  is  in  terminal,  narrow,  acute  spikes,  with 
distant  whorls  of  about  fifteen  to  twenty  flowers  in  each.  The  glandular  calyx  is  tubular- 
bell-shaped,  with  five  sharp  and  ciliate  teeth  : the  corolla  is  light-purplish,  naked,  four- 
lobed,  and  bears  upon  its  tube  four  long  and  nearly  equal  stamens.  Spearmint  has  a 
strong  aromatic  odor  and  a warm  aromatic  taste,  which  resembles  that  of  peppermint,  but 
is  less  pungent,  and  scarcely  cooling. 

Folia  (herba)  menth^e  crisp^e. — Crisped  (curled)  mint,  E.  ; Menthe  crepue,  Fr. ; 
Krauseminze,  G. 

The  German  and  other  pharmacopoeias  recognize,  instead  of  spearmint,  this  cultivated 
variety,  known  as  Mentha  crispa,  Linne , which  is  by  different  botanists  referred  to  M. 
aquatica,  M.  sylvestris,  or  M.  piperita,  Linne.  The  leaves  are  sessile  or  short-petiolate. 
smooth  or  somewhat  pubescent,  heart-shaped  or  roundish-ovate,  acute  or  pointed,  and 
sharply  toothed  and  crisped  on  the  margin.  Other  species  of  mint,  like  M.  viridis,  sativa, 
arvensis,  and  rotundifolia,  Linne , frequently  produce  in  cultivation  forms  with  crisped 
leaves,  and  the  crisped  mints  cultivated  in  different  parts  of  continental  Europe  probably 
belong  to  several  of  these  species. 

Constituents. — The  principal  constituent  of  spearmint  is  volatile  oil  (see  Ol. 
Menth^e  Viridis)  ; the  others,  like  a little  tannin,  are  of  no  medicinal  or  pharmaceutical 
importance. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  action  of  spearmint  is  generally  described  as  identical 
with  that  of  peppermint,  but  it  is  really  much  less  intense.  Its  uses  are  the  same  as 
those  of  peppermint,  but  its  milder  action  has  led  to  its  being  preferred  for  infantile 
cases.  An  infusion  of  spearmint  may  be  made  with  the  proportions  mentioned  under 
Peppermint. 


MENTHOL,  U.  S.,  Br.— Menthol. 

Menthol , Fr.,  G. 

A stearopten  (having  the  nature  of  a secondary  alcohol),  obtained  from  the  official  oil 
of  peppermint  (from  Mentha  piperita , Smith),  or  from  the  Japanese  or  Chinese  oil  of 
peppermint  (from  Menthcv  arvensis , Linne,  var.  piperascens , Malinvaud,  and  Mentha  cana- 
densis, Linne,  var.  glabrata , Bentham  ; nat.  ord.  Labiatae). 

Formula  C10H19OH.  Molecular  weight  155.66. 

Origin  and  Preparation. — The  Chinese  and  Japanese  solid  oil  of  peppermint, 
which  consists  mainly  of  menthol,  was  shown  by  E.  M.  Holmes  to  be  prepared  from  the 
varieties  glabrata  and  piperascens  of  Mentha  arvensis,  De  Candolle.  Within  the  past  few 
years  A.  M.  Todd  has  prepared  a very  handsomely  crystallized  and  perfectly  dry  menthol 
from  oil  of  peppermint  distilled  from  Mentha  piperita  grown  in  the  United  States.  This 
volatile  oil,  carefully  rectified  by  steam,  is  cooled  by  means  of  ice  and  salt  to  — 22.2°  C. 
( — 8°  F.),  and  after  it  has  solidified  the  temperature  is  allowed  to  rise  very  slowly,  the 
liquid  portion  being  drained  off  from  time  to  time.  This  article  has  become  known  in 
our  commerce  as  pipmenthol.  The  yield  is  about  20  per  cent,  of  the  weight  of  the  oil. 

Properties. — Menthol  forms  colorless,  acicular  or  prismatic  glossy  crystals,  which, 
seen  in  quantity,  have  a white  appearance ; if  rapidly  congealed  the  crystals  are  thin, 
stellately  arranged,  and  of  a satiny  lustre.  They  melt  at  43°  C.  (109.4°  F.)  to  a colorless 
liquid,  boiling  at  212°  C.  (413.6°  F.),  and  have  an  agreeable  odor  and  taste  of  peppermint, 
producing,  if  air  is  inhaled,  a sensation  of  coolness.  The  Chinese  menthol  appears  either 
in  fused  crystalline  masses  or  in  colorless  acicular  crystals,  which  are  more  or  less  moist 
from  adhering  oil,  and  differ  somewhat  in  odor  from  that  of  pipmenthol.  Menthol  dis- 
solves sparingly  in  water,  but  is  freely  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  chloroform,  and  other 
solvents  of  volatile  oils  ; the  solutions  have  a neutral  reaction  to  test-paper.  Boiled  with 
sulphuric  acid  diluted  with  half  its  volume  of  water,  menthol  acquires  an  indigo-blue  or 
ultramarine  color,  the  acid  becoming  brown.  Menthol  should  be  entirely  volatilized  by 
the  heat  of  a water-bath  (absence  of  magnesium  sulphate  and  other  saline  or  waxy  im- 
purities). In  contact  with  thymol,  which  has  a higher  melting-point,  it  becomes  liquid 
(Fliickiger,  1885).  Triturated  with  an  equal  weight  of  chloral,  thymol,  or  camphor,  an 
oily  colorless  liquid  is  produced,  soluble  in  alcohol,  benzin,  chloroform,  ether,  and  carbon 


MENYANTHES. 


1035 


disulphide,  and  on  being  mixed  with  sulphuric  acid  acquiring  a blue  color,  the  mixture 
yielding  with  alcohol  a nearly  colorless  solution  (H.  V.  Becker,  1886). 

If  a little  menthol  be  heated  in  an  open  capsule  on  a water-bath,  it  should  gradually 
volatilize  without  leaving  any  residue  (absence  of  wax,  paraffin,  and  inorganic  sub- 
stances). If  a few  crystals  of  menthol  be  dissolved  in  1 Cc.  of  glacial  acetic  acid,  and 
then  3 drops  of  sulphuric  acid  and  1 drop  of  nitric  acid  added,  no  green  color  should  be 
produced  (absence  of  thymol).” — U.  S. 

Action  and  Uses. — Menthol  in  a solid  form  has  but  a trifling  advantage,  if  any,  over 
pure  oil  of  peppermint,  and  may  be  employed  for  the  same  purposes.  Rtibbed  upon  the  skin 
or  mucous  membrane  as  a crystal  or  in  the  form  of  a “pencil,”  it  occasions  a sense  of  cool- 
ness, followed  by  one  of  burning.  It  is  said  to  have  powerful  antibacterial  properties.  It 
has  been  largely  used  to  palliate  zona , eczema , bites  of  insects , burns,  scalds,  carbuncles , 
local  pains,  including  neuralgia,  toothache,  earache,  furuncle  of  the  auditory  canal  (Sze'nes, 
Therap.  Monatsh.,  iv.  488)  (a  20  per  cent,  solution  in  oil  being  applied  on  cotton), 
pruritus  vulvse,  p.  ani,  and  other  forms  of  pruritus  ( Therap  Monatsh.,  iii.  262);  to  cure 
ringworm  of  the  scalp  (a  solution  of  1 : 12),  hay-fever , and  coryza  by  applying  a 10—20 
per  cent,  solution  to  the  nostrils  or  simply  inhaling  its  vapor,  etc.  In  1887,  S.  and  A. 
Rosenberg  asserted  that  nebulized  menthol  had  a remarkable  power  of  controlling,  if  not 
of  arresting,  the  progress  of  phthisis,  whether  laryngeal  or  pulmonary.  In  1888  this 
praise  was  repeated  by  Beehag  ( Edinb . Med.  Jour.,  xxxiii.  625),  who,  as  well  as 
others,  applied  menthol  to  the  treatment  of  affections  of  the  ear  and  Eustachian  tube, 
ozsena,  catarrhal  angina , chronic  pharyngitis , and  even  diphtheria  (Wolf,  Therap. 
Monatsh.,  lv.  446).  In  1889  the  palliative  influence  of  the  medicine  in  vapor  or  spray 
was  illustrated  by  Potter  and  by  Knight  ( Therap . Gaz .,  xiii.  556),  who  used  it  in  chronic 
bronchitis , asthma,  whoopmg  cough,  etc.  (Compare  Bishop,  Med.  News,  lvii.  81  ; 197.) 
Menthol  has  been  given  internally  to  relieve  vomiting,  including  that  of  pregnancy,  by 
Gottschalk  and  others  (R.  Menthol,  1 part,  dissolved  in  spirit  of  wine  and  simple  syrup, 
of  each  20  parts.  Bose,  a teaspoonful  ( Therap . Monatsh .,  iv.  375).  Added  to  chloro- 
form or  ether,  it  may  be  applied  in  spray  to  produce  local  anaesthesia.  Liniments  or  oint- 
ments of  the  strength  of  1 : 10-20  have  been  employed  ; and  internally  menthol  has 
been  given  in  doses  of  one  or  two  grains,  Gm.  0.06-0.12,  in  pill  or  olive  oil. 

MENYANTHES. — Buckbean,  Bogbean. 

Folia  (Herbal)  trifolii  fibrini , P.  G. ; Marsh  trefoil , Wafer  shamrock,  E. ; Menyanthe, 
Trifle  d'eau  (de  marais),  Fr.  Cod. ; Fieberklee,  Bitterklee , Dreiblatt,  G. ; Trebal  acuatico,  Sp. 

The  leaves  of  Menyanthes  trifoliata,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 184. 

Nat.  Ord. — Gentianaceae. 

Origin. — The  buckbean  is  a perennial  indigenous  to  North  America  from  Pennsyl- 
vania northward  and  to  Europe  and  Northern  Asia.  It  grows  in  boggy  places,  has  a 
fleshy  rhizome  of  the  thickness  of  a finger  and  sheathed  by  the  remnants  of  the  leaf- 
stalks, and  bears  a naked  scape  with  about  fifteen  rose-colored  or  whitish  flowers.  It 
blooms  in  May  and  June.  The  leaves  are  collected  in  spring,  and  on  drying  lose  about 
80  per  cent,  in  weight. 

Description. — The  leaves  are  on  petioles  10-15  Cm.  (4  or  6 inches)  long,  ternate, 
the  leaflets  sessile,  5-8  Cm.  (2  to  3 inches)  long,  obtuse,  oblong  or  obovate,  entire  or 
slightly  crenate,  smooth,  and  pale-green.  They  are  inodorous,  and  have  a very  bitter 
taste,  free  from  astringency. 

Constituents. — Trommsdorff  found  in  the  leaves  the  principles  usually  present  in 
herbaceous  parts  of  plants,  and  obtained  the  bitter  principle  in  the  form  of  an  extract-like 
mass.  Brandes  (1830  and  1842)  succeeded  in  gaining  it  partly  as  a thick  amorphous 
mass,  partly  in  yellowish-white  granules.  Landerer  (1839)  found  an  ethereal  extract  of 
buckbean  to  contain  white  bitter  needles,  which  were  soluble  in  water  and  alcohol  and 
precipitated  by  alkalies  from  their  acid  solution  (?).  Kromayer  and  Ludwig  (1861) 
obtained  menyanthin,  which  has  probably  the  composition  C33H54016.  It  dries  over  sul- 
phuric acid  to  an  amorphous  whitish  mass,  which  on  the  application  of  heat  softens,  and 
at  115°  C.  (239°  F.)  is  limpid  and  transparent.  It  is  sparingly  soluble  in  cold  water, 
soluble  in  alkalies  and  alcohol,  but  insoluble  in  ether.  It  has  a very  bitter  taste,  and 
when  boiled  with  dilute  acids  is  resolved  into  sugar,  a brown  resin,  and  menyantliol , the 
latter  being  oily,  volatile,  heavier  than  water,  and  of  an  agreeable  odor  resembling  that 
of  bitter  almonds.  The  leaves  contain  a pectin  compound,  which  causes  the  infusion, 


1036 


METHYLENI  BICHLORIDUM. 


sweetened  with  sugar,  to  gelatinize  in  a few  days ; this  compound  is  insoluble  in  diluted 
alcohol. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Extractum  menyanthis,  s.  trifolii  fibrini.  The 
French  preparation  is  the  inspissated  juice.  In  Germany  it  is  made  by  hot  infusion  of 
the  dry  leaves  with  water. 

Action  and  Uses. — Water  shamrock  or  marsh  trefoil  is  a bitter  tonic  which  is 
reputed  to  be  also  antiscorbutic,  emmenagogue,  and  vermifuge,  and  was  anciently  used 
in  dropsy,  urinary  disorders,  etc.  In  large  doses,  like  other  bitters,  it  acts  as  an  emetic, 
and  some  observers  have  attributed  to  it  narcotic  qualities.  It  is  chiefly  used  in  atonic 
dyspepsia  and  those  hepatic  and  digestive  derangements  which  are  apt  to  prevail  in  damp 
malarial  localities.  It  is  a popular  remedy  for  chronic  cutaneous  eruptions,  both  internally 
and  externally.  Its  ancient  use  in  ammorrhoea  has  been  revived  by  White  ( Lancet , Jan. 
31,  1885,  p.  235).  The  most  efficient  form  of  the  medicine  is  the  expressed  juice,  which 
is  administered  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  64-96  (fgij-iij)  daily,  in  whey  or  thin  broth.  An 
infusion  is  made  with  Gm.  16  to  Gm.  500  (3SS  in  Oj)  both  for  internal  and  external 
use. 


METHYLENI  BICHLORIDUM. — Methylene  Bichloride. 

Dichlormethane , Chloro-methyl , E. ; Chlorure  de  methyle  monochlore,  Ether  chlorhydrique 
monochlorure  de  V esprit  de  hois,  Fr. ; Methylenchlorid , Chlormethylchloriir , G. 

Formula  CH2C12.  Molecular  weight  84.71. 

Preparation. — Chlorine  gas  is  conducted  into  a glass  globe  containing  methyl 
chloride,  CH3C1,  which  glass  is  drawn  out  below  so  as  to  form  a thin  tube,  passing  into 
one  aperture  of  a Woulfe’s  bottle,  the  second  tubulure  being  connected,  by  means  of  a 
bent  glass  tube,  with  a second  Woulfe’s  bottle  placed  in  ice,  and  this  with  a flask  cooled 
by  means  of  a freezing  mixture;  the  liquid  condensed  in  the  Woulfe’s  bottles  is  chiefly 
chloroform,  while  that  condensing  in  the  flask  will  be  pure  methylene  bichloride.  This  is 
Regnault’s  process,  by  whom  the  compound  was  discovered  (1840).  It  can  also  be 
obtained  by  the  reduction  of  chloroform  (in  alcoholic  solution)  by  zinc  and  hydrochloric 
acid  ; the  heavier  liquid  is  separated  and  purified  by  successive  treatment  with  soda  solu- 
tion, sulphuric  acid,  water,  calcium  chloride,  and  fractional  distillation. 

Properties. — Methylene  bichloride  is  a colorless  liquid,  having  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.) 
the  spec.  grav.  1.360,  and  boiling  at  30.5°  C.  (87°  F.)  or  41.6°  C.  (106.88°  F.)  (Helbing). 
The  same  compound,  obtained  by  Butlerow  (1859)  by  heating  methylene  biniodide  in  a 
current  of  chlorine  gas,  boiled  at  40.5°  C.  (105°  F.).  Its  odor  resembles  that  of  chloro- 
form. It  has  no  action  upon  test-paper,  is  soluble  in  alcohol  and  ether,  and  scarcely 
affected  by  alcoholic  solution  of  potassa.  It  is  decomposed  when  exposed  to  light  and 
air,  the  change  being  prevented  by  the  addition  of  a little  alcohol.  Its  vapor  has  the 
density  3.012  and  burns  with  a bright  flame. 

In  composition  it  may  be  regarded  as  the  chloride  of  methylene  (CH2)  or  as  a deriva- 
tive of  methyl,  CH3 ; the  following  shows  its  relation  to  allied  compounds : 


Marsh  gas  .... 
Methyl  chloride  . . 
Methylene  bichloride 
Chloroform  .... 
Chlorocarbon  . . . 


Methyl,  CH3.  Methylene,  CH2. 

CHg.H  

CH3.C1  

CH2.C1.C1  CH2C12 

chci2.ci  chci.ci2 

CCI3.CI  CC12.C12 


English  methylene  chloride,  or  methylene,  is  a mixture  of  methylene  chloride  and 
ether ; it  was  recommended  as  a safe  anaesthetic  in  doses  of  from  1—4  drachms  (Richard- 
son), but  is  not  as  free  from  danger  as  its  originator  believed.  Care  should  be  taken  to 
distinguish  between  this  mixture  and  the  definite  chemical  compound  above  mentioned. 

A mixture  of  chloroform  and  methyl  chloride  has  also  figured  in  commerce  as  “ methylene 
chloride  ” (Helbing). 


Allied  Compounds. — Methyl  chloride,  Chlormethyl,  Monochlormethane,  CH3  Cl.  Mol.  weight, 
50.34.  A gaseous  compound  first  proposed  by  Berthelot,  and  obtained  by  the  reaction  between 
methyl  alcohol  and  hydrochloric  acid  in  the  presence  of  zinc  chloride.  After  purification  by 
means  of  water,  acid,  and  alkali,  it  occurs  as  a colorless  gas  with  an  ethereal  odor ; it  is  soluble 
in  one-fourth  its  volume  of  water,  much  more  so  in  alcohol,  and  freely  in  ether  and  chloroform. 
Under  a pressure  of  five  atmospheres  at  normal  temperature  methyl  chloride  is  a liquid  which 
should  be  neutral  to  test-paper  and  unaffected  by  silver  nitrate  or  potassium  iodide  and  starch 
paste.  The  compressed  liquid  form  of  methyl  chloride  has  been  recommended  for  use  as  a spray 
to  produce  local  anaesthesia. 


METHYLENI  B1CHL0RTDUM. 


1037 


Carbox  Tetrachloride,  Tetrachlormethane,  CC14.  Mol.  weight,  153.45.  A transparent,  color- 
less liquid,  of  the  specific  gravity,  1.599,  boiling  at  77°  C.  (170.6°  F.),  and  an  agreeable  aromatic 
flavor.  It  is  obtained  in  an  impure  form  when  dry  chlorine  is  first  passed  through  a bottle  con- 
taining carbon  disulphide,  and  then  through  a porcelain  tube,  filled  with  pieces  of  porcelain, 
and  kept  at  a bright-red  heat ; the  vapors  are  condensed  in  a cooled  receiver,  forming  a yellowish- 
red  liquid,  which  is  a mixture  of  carbon  tetrachloride  and  sulphur  chloride.  The  sulphur  chloride 
is  removed  by  slowly  adding  the  liquid  to  an  excess  of  potash  lye  or  milk  of  lime,  the  mixture 
being  set  aside  and  agitated  from  time  to  time  till  the  sulphur  compound  is  decomposed,  and 
then  distilled.  Carbon  tetrachloride  passes  over,  and,  if  necessary,  may  be  freed  from  remaining 
carbon  disulphide  by  further  treatment  with  caustic  potash. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  inhalation  of  the  vapor  is  described  as  being  very  pleasant 
and  but  slightly  irritating,  drowsiness  and  unconsciousness  coming  on  without  any  noise 
in  the  head  or  oppression,  and  recovery  taking  place  at  once  and  completely,  without  any 
sense  of  depression.  Like  chloroform,  it  is  very  apt  to  occasion  vomiting,  and  like  ether 
it  sometimes  causes  a stage  of  excitement  and  struggling  which  may  be  difficult  to  subdue. 
Although  it  does  not  produce  fatal  effects  as  frequently  as  chloroform,  it  is  not  exempt 
from  that  danger.  Up  to  1874  at  least  four  cases  had  been  reported  in  which  death  was 
directly  traceable  to  this  anaesthetic,  and  in  the  following  year  a fifth  occurred  in  London. 
In  the  last  case  the  breathing  became  suddenly  loud  and  stertorous,  deep,  full,  and  exag- 
gerated : the  lips  and  cheeks  retained  their  color ; the  pulse  at  the  wrist  failed  rapidly, 
and  then  ceased  almost  abruptly.  A sixth  case  occurred  at  Ipswich,  England,  in  which 
the  stertor  was  preceded  by  rather  violent  struggling.  Up  to  1881  nine  deaths  were 
attributed  to  this  anaesthetic,  in  some  of  which  the  abrupt  occurrence  of  death  seems  to 
prove  that  it  was  due  to  syncope.  In  several,  also,  it  followed  doses  of  | drachm  (Rei- 
chert, Amer.  Jour,  of  Med.  Sci .,  July,  1881,  p.  52).  In  1884  a death  by  syncope  due  to 
this  agent  occurred  in  Plymouth,  England.  The  operation  for  which  it  was  administered 
was  a slight  one,  and  only  ten  minims  of  the  preparation  were  given  ( Lancet , June  28, 
1884).  A similar  accident  occurred  in  the  same  place  in  1890  (ibid.,  Oc-t.,  1890.  p.  768). 
A further,  although  a subordinate,  objection  to  this  compound  is  its  volatility,  which 
renders  its  use  difficult  in  a hot  atmosphere. 

In  1877,  Mr.  Spencer  Wells  made  the  following  statement  (and  substantially  repeated 
it  in  1888),  which,  in  relation  to  the  particular  class  of  cases  referred  to,  appears  conclu- 
sive as  to  the  superiority  of  this  anaesthetic  : “ In  1872,  I made  known  my  opinion  that 
all  the  advantages  of  complete  anaesthesia,  with  fewer  drawbacks,  could  be  obtained 
better  by  the  use  of  bichloride  of  methylene  than  by  any  other  known  anaesthetic.  This 
was  the  result  of  the  experience  of  five  years  and  of  three  hundred  and  fifty  serious 
operations.  The  experience  of  the  five  succeeding  years,  with  more  than  six  hundred 
additional  cases  of  ovariotomy  and  many  other  cases  of  surgical  operations,  has  fully 
confirmed  me  in  this  belief.  Given  properly  diluted  with  air,  it  has,  in  my  experience  of 
ten  years,  with  more  than  one  thousand  operations  of  a nature  unusually  severe  as  tests 
of  an  anaesthetic,  proved  to  be,  without  a single  exception,  applicable  to  every  patient, 
perfectly  certain  to  produce  complete  anaesthesia,  relieving  the  surgeon  from  all  alarm 
and  even  anxiety,  and  its  use  has  never  been  followed  by  any  dangerous  symptoms  which 
could  be  fairly  attributed  to  it.”  Other  surgeons  have  testified  to  its  efficiency  in  a great 
variety  of  surgical  operations,  both  capital  and  trivial,  yet,  from  whatever  cause,  it  does 
not  seem  to  have  supplanted  to  any  great  extent  either  chloroform  or  ether.  Perhaps  it 
may  be,  as  Mr  Wells  remarks,  that  the  fluid  sold  as  bichloride  of  methylene  may  have 
been  only  chloroform  mixed  with  some  spirit  or  ether  ; perhaps  the  reason  may  be  found 
in  the  opinions  expressed  by  Dr.  Richardson,  that  “ he  was  not  favorably  impressed  with 
the  application  of  the  bichloride  to  quick  general  anaesthesia,”  and  that  “ it  belongs  to  a 
dangerous  family  of  chemical  substances,  and  cannot  therefore  be  played  with  without 
risk.”  J 

In  administering  the  vapor  a sufficient  proportion  of  atmospheric  air  should  be  admitted 
i along  with  it.  For  this  purpose  a hollow  cone  made  of  pasteboard  pierced  w7ith  holes, 
should  contain  the  cloth  or  sponge  upon  which  the  liquid  has  heen  poured.  The  quantity 
used  should  not  exceed,  fora  first  inhalation,  30  or  40  minims;  half  as  much  may  be  used 
each  time  that  signs  of  returning  consciousness  appear. 

Methylene  blue  is  an  anodyne  for  the  pain  of  neuralgia  and  rheumatism , and 
neuralgic  headache.  It  is  reported  to  be  ineffectual  to  relieve  osteocopic  (syphilitic)  pain , 
gastralgia  from  ulcers,  mental  excitement,  hallucinations,  and  insomnia.  Its  anodyne 
e ect  is  perceptible  about  two  hours  after  its  administration,  and  is  said  to  be  sustained 
or  about  an  equal  time.  During  its  use  the  urine  acquires  a greenish  hue.  It  does  not 
seem  to  affect  the  pulse,  appetite,  or  digestion.  Its  alleged  efficacy  in  phthisis  and  diph- 


1038 


METHYLI  IODIDUM. 


theria  has  not  been  confirmed  (Erlich  and  Lepmann,  Centralblatt f.  Therap.,  viu.  401). 
It  has  been  given  hypodermically  in  doses  of  6m.  0.02-0.08  (gr.  3-l) ; and  internally  in 
doses  of  6m.  0.10-0.50  (gr.  11-8)  in  gelatin  capsules. 

Methyli  Chloridum. — Methyl  chloride  was  first  employed  in  1884,  in  Paris,  by 
Debove,  who  treated  neuralgia  by  directing  upon  the  seats  of  pain  a stream  of  the : com- 
pound from  a vessel  where  under  pressure  it  remained  liquid,  but  on  escaping  into  the  air 
was  converted  into  a vapor.  When  this  stream  impinges  upon  the  skin  it  produces 
smarting  and  burning,  followed  by  congelation  of  the  part  and,  if  continued,  by  vesica- 
tion and  even  sphacelus.  Hence  it  was  soon  recommended  not  to  allow  the  vapor  to  tall 
upon  the  same  spot  longer  than  four  or  five  seconds  at  a time  nor  to  strike  it  vertically. 
The  vesicated  skin  on  healing  is  apt  to  be  stained  brown,  but  less  frequently  on  the  face 

thl Thetrltment  of  neuralgia  by  cold  is  far  from  novel.  In  1851  it  was  successfully 
used  by  Arnott  in  England  and  by  Nelaton  in  France,  who  both  employed  freezing 
mixtures  for  the  purpose.  Methyl  chloride  is  only  a new  agent  for  effecting  a familiar 

°bjThe  cases  first  treated  by  Debove  were  of  sciatica  from  cold  and  in  these  the  method 
was  most  successful.  Sciatica  due  to  disease  of  the  spine  or  of  the  spinal  cord  has  been 
palliated,  but  not  cured,  by  congelation.  Witness  also  the  results  of  this  treatment  in 
Ihorea  and  locomotor  ataxia.  Trigeminal  neuralgia  has  sometimes  been  palliated  or  even 
removed  by  it.  Its  use  in  articular  rheumatism  has  been  advocated,  but  we  must  regard 
it  as  of  doubtful  value  if  not  dangerous ; and  the  same  remark  applies  to  internal  inflam- 
mations for  which  it  has  been  used,  if  only  to  relieve  the  element  pain.  Many  other 
agents  exist  for  this  purpose,  and  do  not,  like  this  one,  involve  danger.  It  has  been  also 
uled  to  suspend  the  sensibility  of  parts  to  which  the  actual  cautery  was  applied,  fo 
lessen  the  danger  of  causing  a slough  by  freezing  the  skin  Debove.  suggested  that  the 
point  on  which  the  spray  is  to  fall  should  be  first  coated  with  glycerin.  Instead  of  the 
spray,  tampons  of  wool  or  floss  silk  saturated  with  the  liquid  and  covered  with  thin  si.k 
tissue  may  be  applied  to  the  skin  with  wooden  or  vulcanite  holders. 

METHYLI  IODIDUM  — Methyl  Iodide. 

Iodure  de  methyle , Fr. ; Jodmethyl,  Gr. 

Formula  CH3I.  Molecular  weight  141.50.  „ r nooK\  }lV 

Preparation— This  compound  was  first  obtained  by  Dumas  and  Pehgot  (1835)  by 
adding  very  gradually  1 part  of  phosphorus  to  a solution  of  8 parts  of  iodine  in  L 01 
parts  of  methylic  alcohol,  agitating  the  distillate  with  water  and  rectifying.  According 
to  Wanklyn  (1867),  potassium  iodide  and  anhydrous  methylic  alcohol  are  mixed 
retort  in  equivalent  proportions ; dry  hydrochloric  acid  gas  is  passed  into  the  mixture, 
which  is  then  distilled,  and  the  distillate  purified  as  betore. 

Properties— Methyl  iodide  is  a colorless  liquid  of  an  ethereal  odor  and  the  spree. 

gr^  2P199  at  6°  C.  (32°  F.).  It  boils  at  43.8°  C.  (111°  F.),  and  by  the  aid  of  a wick 
burns  with  difficulty,  giving  off  violet  vapors. . , , . , , ofi7 

Allied  Compound. — Methyleni  iodidum,  s.  biniodidum,  CH.2I2  (mo  . weig  , *,i 

nrenared  bv  Butlerow  (1859)  by  acting  upon  iodoform  with  sodium  ethylate.  It  is  readily  fo  ^ 
flv^eatinff  chloroform  with  very  concentrated  hydriodic  acid  for  several  hours  to  near  130  0. 
1266°  F I It  is  a v™ow  liquid  having  the  spec.  grav.  3.34,  congealing  to  glossy  scales  near  the 
freezing-point,  and  boiling  at  180°  C.  (356°  F.),  at  the  same  time  suffering  partial  decomposing 
Action  and  Uses  —Proposed  in  1868  by  Dr.  B.  W.  Richardson,  iodide  of  methyl 

wafstated  to  be  respirable  and^mestbetic  when  pure,  but  to  give  rise  to  great  exm^men 
ot  the  heart  and  circulation,  and  when  decomposed,  as  it  was  apt  to  become . “ P" 
the  irritating  effects  of  iodine,  including  lachrymation,  salivation,  and  bronchial isec  • 

In  experiments  upon  animals  inhalation  of  the  vapor  produced  fatal  engorgement  of  be 

bronchia.  Of  it  Sir  James  Y.  Simpson  wrote : “ I found  it  very  powerfully  an*sthet,c 
but  dangerously  so.  After  inhaling  a very  small  quantity  for  two  or  ^r«e  “'nut“t0 
remained  for  some  seconds  without  feeling  much  effect,  but  objects  I““e^  for 

multiply  before  my  eyes,  and  I fell  down  in  a state  of  insensibi  1 y,  ., 

upward  of  an  hour.  I did  not  completely  recover  from  the  effects  of  it  for  some « 1 
In  1884,  Dr.  Richardson  used  methyl  iodide  internally,  by  giving  10  minims  of  a solut 

of  6 grains  of  the  iodide  in  60  minims  of  absolute  alcohol.  Th.s  dose  he  found  to  be 
amesthetic  and  sedative  in  cases  of  hyperesthesia  and  attending  mam  y 

uterine  cancer.  Similar  effects  were  noted  by  Kirk  (Asclepiad,  1884,  Lancet, 

1885). 


METHYL  SA  LIC YL A S.—MEZERE UM. 


1039 


METHYL  SALICYLAS,  V.  8.— Methyl  Salicylate. 

Artificial  or  synthetical  oil  of  wintergreen , E. ; Mcthylsalicylat , Kiinstliches  Winter  - 
griinoel , G. 

Formula  CH3C7H503.  Molecular  weight  151.64. 

Preparation. — The  process  probably  most  used  is  the  one  which  is  used  extensively 
for  the  preparation  of  ethers,  and  consists  in  the  heating  of  the  acid  in  methylic  alcohol 
with  concentrated  sulphuric  acid. 

Properties. — Methyl  salicylate  is  “ a colorless,  or  slightly  yellowish  liquid,  having 
the  characteristic,  strongly  aromatic  odor,  and  the  sweetish,  warm,  and  aromatic  taste  of 
oil  of  wintergreen,  with  the  essential  constituent  of  which  it  is  identical,  and  in  place  of 
which  it  may  be  used.  Specific  gravity,  1.183-1.185  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.).  Boiling-point, 
219°-221°  C.  (462.2°-429.8°  F.).  It  is  optically  inactive.  Soluble,  in  all  proportions, 
in  alcohol,  glacial  acetic  acid,  and  carbon  disulphide.  The  alcohol  solution  is  neutral  or 
slightly  acid  to  litmus-paper.  If  a drop  of  methyl  salicylate  be  shaken  with  a little 
water,  and  a drop  of  ferric  chloride  test-solution  subsequently  added,  a deep  violet  color 
will  be  produced.  When  heated  on  a water-bath,  in  a flask  provided  with  a suitable  con- 
denser. it  should  yield  no  distillate  having  the  characteristics  of  alcohol  or  chloroform. 
If  to  1 Cc.  of  methyl  salicylate,  contained  in  a capacious  test-tube,  10  Cc.  of  sodium 
hydroxide  test-solution  be  added,  and  the  mixture  agitated,  a bulky,  white,  crystalline  pre- 
cipitate will  be  produced ; and,  if  the  test-tube,  loosely  corked,  be  subsequently  allowed 
to  stand  in  boiling  water  for  about  five  minutes,  with  occasional  agitation,  a clear,  color- 
less or  faintly  yellowish  and  complete  solution  should  be  obtained  without  the  separation 
of  any  oily  drops,  either  on  the  surface  or  at  the  bottom  of  the  liquid  (absence  of  other 
volatile  oils  or  of  petroleum).  If  the  alkaline  liquid  thus  obtained  be  subsequently 
diluted  with  about  three  times  its  volume  of  water,  and  a slight  excess  of  hydrochloric 
acid  added,  a white,  crystalline  precipitate  will  be  produced  which,  when  collected  on  a 
filter,  washed  with  a little  water,  and  recrystallized  from  hot  water,  should  respond  to  the 
tests  of  identity  and  purity  described  under  Acidum  Salicylicum  (absence  of  methyl 
benzoate,  etc.).” — U.  S. 

Uses.— The  virtues  of  this  compound  appear  to  be  the  same  as  those  of  oil  of  winter- 
green, from  which  it  is  derived.  (Yid.  Oleum  Gaultherle.) 

MEZEREUM,  U.  S. — Mezereon. 

Mezerei  cortex , Br. ; Cortex  mezerei , Cortex  thymeleae  (yel  coccognidii) . — Mezer eon-bark, 
E. ; Mezereon , Bois  gentil , Garou  sanbois , Fr.  Cod. ; Laureole , Thy  melee,  Fr.  ; Seidelbast , 
Kellerhals,  G. ; Macereon,  Torviso , Sp. 

The  bark  of  Daphne  Mezereum,  Linne,  Daphne  Gnidium,  Linne , and  Daphne  Laureola, 
Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  225,  226,  227. 

Nat.  Ord. — Thymelaeacese. 

Origin. — The  three  plants  named  above  are  small  shrubs  about  0.6-1. 2 M.  (2  to  4 
feet ) high.  The  mezereon  has  rose-red,  sessile,  fragrant  flowers  in  small  clusters  pre- 
ceding the  deciduous  leaves,  and  is  indigenous  to  hilly  and  mountainous  regions  of 
Europe,  extending  to  the  Arctic  Circle,  and  eastward  to  Siberia.  The  other  two  species 
are  found  in  Southern  Europe ; D.  Laureola,  or  spurge  laurel,  is  also  met  with  eastward  to 
Asia  Minor.  This  species  has  large  evergreen  leaves  and  yellowish-green  flowers  in  axil- 
lary clusters,  while  the  spurge  flax  (D.  Gnidium)  has  narrow  annual  leaves  and  small 
white  flowers  in  terminal,  corymbose  racemes.  The  bark  is  usually  collected  during  the 
winter. 

Description. — Mezereon-bark  is  in  long  bands  about  12  Mm.  (J  inch)  wide,  1 
Mm.  (-jL  inch)  thick,  either  folded  and  tied  together  in  bundles  or  rolled  up  into  flat 
| disks  with  the  inner  surface  outward.  The  outer 
surface  varies  in  color  from  pale-yellowish  or  brown- 
ish to  brown-yellow,  with  a coppery  lustre,  and  is 
marked  with  numerous  minute  blackish  warts  and 
transversely  elongated  leaf-scars,  in  the  axils  of 
which  is  found  a cluster  of  blackish  spots.  Older 
bark  shows  some  transverse  fissures.  The  corky 
layer  is  easily  separated  from  the  pale-greenish  Mezereon-bark:  transverse  section,  magnified, 
outer  bark,  and  with  this  from  the  bast-layer.  The  inner  surface  is  whitish,  of  a silky 
lustre,  and  from  loosened  bast-fibres  has  a hairy  appearance.  The  bark  tears  somewhat 


Fig.  183. 


1040 


MEZEREUM. 


irregularly  in  a longitudinal  direction,  but  with  difficulty  transversely.  The  fine  and 
tough  bast-fibres  are  in  tangential  rows  and  alternate  with  layers  of  parenchyma,  this  tis- 
sue being  radially  striate  by  narrow  one-rowed  medullary  rays.  The  dried  bark  is 
inodorous  and  has  a persistently  acrid  and  burning  taste. 

The  bark  of  the  spurge  flax  is  of  a darker  brown  color,  and  has  numerous  spirally 
arranged  leaf-scars  ; that  of  the  spurge  laurel  is  more  of  a gray  or  brown-gray  color,  not 
prominently  marked  with  leaf-scars,  and  has  a greenish  bast ; both  agree  with  mezereon- 
bark  in  acridity.  The  root-bark  of  the  three  species  is  regarded  as  the  strongest,  but 
the  stem-bark  is  most  generally  met  with. 

Constituents. — Landerer  observed  (1836)  that  mezereon-bark  contains  a neutral 
acrid  principle  which  volatilizes  with  the  vapors  of  water ; a similar  observation  was 
made  by  Squire  (1842)  with  mezereon-root,  and  by  Yauquelin  (1808)  with  the  distillate 
from  water  which  had  been  used  for  washing  the  resin.  The  acrimony  is,  however, 
mainly  due  to  a soft  resin  or  oil,  which,  according  to  C.  G.  Gmelin  (1822),  is  not  precip- 
itated by  lead  acetate  from  its  alcoholic  solution.  This  acrid  principle  deserves  further 
investigation.  Yauquelin  (1808)  discovered  daphnin  in  the  bark  of  spurge  flax,  and  the 
same  principle  was  isolated  by  Gmelin  and  Bar  (1822)  from  mezereon-bark.  Rochleder 
(1864)  obtained  it  from  the  aqueous  decoction  of  the  alcoholic  extract,  after  precipitating 
with  sugar  of  lead,  by  precipitating  it  with  lead  subacetate,  decomposing  with  hydrogen 
sulphide,  washing  with  ether,  and  crystallizing  from  water.  It  has  a persistently  bitter, 
not  acrid,  taste,  and  an  acid  reaction,  dissolves  readily  in  hot  water  and  alcohol,  is 
insoluble  in  ether,  yields  with  alkalies  yellow  solutions,  and  colors  ferric  chloride  blue. 
Zwenger  (1860)  ascertained  it  to  be  a glucoside  of  the  composition  C3jH34Oj9.4H.2O,  yield- 
ing daphnetin , C19II14O9,  which  has  a coumarin-like  odor.  On  the  dry  distillation  of  the 
alcoholic  extract  umbelliferon  is  obtained. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — The  comminution  of  the  bark  requires  some  precaution 
to  avoid  the  injurious  effects  of  the  dust.  The  bark  may  be  readily  cut  into  small  pieces, 
and  should  then  be  moistened  with  a little  water,  which  should  also  be  added  on  bruising 
the  bark  in  a mortar. 

Unguentum  mezerei,  U.  S.  1880. — Mezereon  ointment.  Melt  together  12  parts  of 
yellow  wax  and  80  parts  of  lard,  add  25  parts  of  fluid  extract  of  mezereon,  and  heat 
moderately  on  a water-bath  until  the  alcohol  has  evaporated ; then  stir  the  mixture  until 
cool. 

Allied  Drugs. — Fructus  (Grana)  mezerei,  s.  gnidii,  s.  coccognidii.— Mezereon-fruit,  E.; 
Grains  de  garou,  Fr. ; Kellerhalskorner,  G. — The  berry-like  fruit  of  the  above  species  is  in  the 
fresh  state  red  or  of  the  spurge  laurel  blackish,  globular-ovate  or  oval,  about  5 Mm.  (4  inch) 
thick  5 after  drying,  brown  or  black,  wrinkled ; contains  a black  glossy  seed,  is  inodorous,  and 
has  a strongly  acrid  and  burning  taste.  Besides  gum,  vegetable  acids,  protein  compounds,  and 
other  medicinally  unimportant  principles,  Casselmann  obtained  from  the  fruit  31  per  cent,  of 
drying  oil,  0.22  per  cent,  of  acrid  resin,  and  0.38  per  cent,  of  cocc.ognin , which  differs  from  daphnin 
in  having  a neutral  reaction,  in  being  very  sparingly  soluble  in  hot  water,  and  in  not  being  a 
glucoside  •,  when  heated  it  melts,  and  sublimes  apparently  unchanged,  giving  off  a coumarin-like 
odor. 

Daphne  salicifolia,  Kiinth , grows  in  Mexico  ; the  leaves,  hojas  at  San  Pedro , are  used  for 
their  epispastic  properties. 

Action  and  Uses. — Excessive  doses  of  mezereon  give  rise  to  symptoms  of  gastro- 
intestinal irritation,  with  violent  pain  and  sometimes  very  severe  urinary  irritation. 
When  the  bark  is  fresh  or  has  been  soaked  in  water  or  in  vinegar,  it  reddens  the  skin, 
and  at  length  occasions  vesicles,  followed  by  moist  and  painful  ulcers  which  are  difficult 
to  heal.  We  have  elsewhere  furnished  illustrations  of  the  narcotico-acrid  action  of 
mezereon  berries  and  of  their  use  in  medicine  ( Therapeutics,  4th  ed.,  i.  407). 

At  one  time  mezereon  was  much  in  vogue  as  a remedy  for  syphilis,  and  to  this  day  it 
is  an  ingredient  of  the  compound  decoction  of  sarsaparilla.  But  the  evidence  in  its 
favor  is  not  adapted  to  convince.  In  chronic  non-syphilitic  cutaneous  diseases  its  reputa- 
tion was  equally  ill-founded.  In  chronic  rheumatism  it  seems  to  have  been  more  useful, 
but  here  also  its  real  value  in  a complex  system  of  treatment  is  difficult  to  determine. 
It  is  seldom  used  alone,  except  as  a local  irritant  in  the  form  of  the  recent  or  moistened 
bark  above  referred  to.  In  this  respect  it  may  more  or  less  take  the  place  of  cantharides. 
It  has  been  applied  to  improve  the  condition  of  foul  or  indolent  ulcers  and  to  maintain 
the  discharge  from  issues  and  setons.  For  these  purposes  mezereon  ointment  is  conve- 
nient. To  excite  vesication  the  bark,  prepared  as  already  described  and  bound  firmly  to 
the  skin  with  a roller,  should  be  freshly  applied  twice  every  day  until  vesication  begins. 


MICA  PA  NIS.—MISTURIE. 


1041 


Mezereon  ointment  may  be  used  to  prolong  and  renew  the  suppuration  originally  pro- 
duced by  cantharides. 

When  poisoning  by  mezereon  occurs  the  stomach  should  be  evacuated  by  lukewarm 
albuminous  or  mucilaginous  liquids.  Milk  and  fatty  oils  may  also  be  administered. 

MICA  PANIS,  Bp. — Bread-Crumb. 

Mie  du pain,  Fr. ; Brodkrumen , G. 

The  soft  part  of  bread  made  with  wheat  flour. 

It  is  employed  as  an  excipient  in  the  preparation  of  certain  pills,  like  those  of  corro- 
sive sublimate,  etc.,  and  externally  for  emollient  poultices.  It  is  a constituent  of  Cata - 
plasma  car  bonis. 

Action  and  Uses. — It  may  be  presumed  that  this  article  was  made  officinal  in 
order  that  only  wheaten  bread  should  be  used.  But  in  the  only  preparation  for  which  it 
is  directed,  charcoal  poultice,  any  other  form  of  bread  would  answer  equally  well.  In  this 
country  Indian  corn  meal  is  generally  employed. 


MISTUR^J  VEL  MIXTURE. 

Mixtures , E.  ; Potions , Mixtures , Fr.  ; Mixturen , G. 

Liquid  medicines  which  contain  insoluble  substances  in  suspension,  or  which  are  com- 
posed of  two  or  more  liquids,  with  or  without  the  addition  of  saline  or  other  material, 
are  termed  “ mixtures,”  and  in  its  more  limited  application  the  term  is  restricted  to  mix- 
tures intended  for  internal  use.  They  are  most  frequently  prepared  extemporaneously 
and  upon  the  prescriptions  of  physicians,  since  even  among  the  official  ones  but  few 
possess  sufficient  stability  to  permit  them  to  be  kept  on  hand  for  a longer  period  than  a 
few  days.  Insoluble  substances,  when  light  and  readily  diffusible  in  water,  do  not  gen- 
erally require  the  addition  of  gum-arabic  or  other  mucilaginous  body  to  ensure  their 
uniform  suspension  and  the  equalization  of  the  dose;  such  an  addition  is  desirable  in  all 
cases  where  the  insoluble  bodies  are  much  heavier  than  water.  However,  some  judicious 
restrictions  are  necessary,  lest  the  insoluble  compound  form  a compact  deposit  which  can- 
not be  readily  suspended  again  by  agitation.  This  difficulty  may  be  avoided  by  reducing 
the  gum  to  a very  small  proportion,  and  increasing  the  suspending  power  of  the  vehicle 
by  the  addition  of  sugar  or  glycerin. 

The  term  Saturations  is  applied  in  Europe  to  effervescing  draughts  made  from  lemon- 
juice,  vinegar,  tartaric  or  citric  acid,  to  which  is  added  a sufficient  quantity  of  a carbonate 
to  afford  a nearly  neutral  salt,  the  solution  remaining  charged  with  as  much  carbonic  acid 
gas  as  it  will  retain  without  being  filtered.  The  weight  of  official  alkalies  required  for 
the  neutralization  of  100  parts  of  official  acid  will  be  seen  from  the  following  table : 


ACIDS. 

AMMONIUM. 

POTASSIUM. 

SODIUM. 

Ammon, 
carbon., 
100  <t' . 

Ammo- 
nia- 
water, 
10  *. 

Potassa, 
90  i . 

Potas- 
sium bi- 
carbon., 
100 

Potas- 

sium 

carbon., 

95 

Soda, 

90#. 

Sodium 
bicar- 
bon., 
98.6  ^ . 

Sodium 
carbon., 
98.9  $ . 

Acetic 

102.30 

37.41 

60.07 

43.65 

26.70 

51.14 

86.79 

“ diluted 

5.24 

17.05 

6.22 

10.01 

7.27 

4.45 

8.52 

14.46 

“ glacial  

86.43 

281.32 

102.89 

165.19 

120.00 

73.43 

140.65 

238.66 

Renzoic 

! 42.94 

139.76 

51.11 

82.06 

59.63 

36.48 

69.87 

118.57 

Citric 

! 74.83 

243.58 

89.09 

143.03 

103.93 

63.58 

121.78 

206.65 

Hydrobromic,  diluted  . . 

6.47 

21.06 

7.70 

12.37 

8.99 

5.50 

10.53 

17.87 

Hydrochloric 

45.84 

149.19 

54.57 

87.60 

63.66 

38.94 

74.59 

126.57 

“ diluted  . . 

14.37 

46.77 

17.10 

27.46 

19.96 

12.21 

23.38 

39.68 

Lactic 

43.65 

142.08 

51.96 

83.43 

60.62 

37.09 

71.03 

120.54 

Nitric  .... 

56.51 

183.92 

67.27 

108.00 

78.48 

48.01 

91.95 

! 156.03 

“ diluted 

8.31 

27.05 

9.89 

15.88 

11.54 

7.06 

13.52 

22.95 

Phosphoric 

90.83 

295.67 

108.14 

173.62 

126.16 

77.18 

147.82 

250.84 

“ diluted  . . 

10.69 

34.78 

12.72 

20.43 

14.84 

9.08 

17.39 

29.51 

Salicylic 

37.96 

123.55 

45.19 

72.55 

52.72 

32.25 

61.77 

104.82 

Sulphuric 

98.83 

321.70 

117.65 

188.90 

137.26 

83.97 

160.83 

272.92 

“ diluted  . . . 

10.68 

34.78 

12.72 

20.42 

14.84 

9.08 

17.39 

29.50 

Tartaric 

69.84 

227.35 

83.15 

i 133.49 

97.00 

59.34 

113.66 

192.87 

L ' 


1042 


MISTURA  CREOSO  TI.—MIST  UR  A F'ERRI  AROMATICA. 


Mixtures  are  usually  taken  by  the  teaspoonful  or  tajblespoonful ; occasionally  they  are 
made  of  such  a strength  that  they  require-  to  be  taken  by  drops,  and  are  then  often  dis- 
tinguished as  GuTTiE  (Drops,  E. ; Gouttes,  Fr. ; Tropfen,  Gi).  If  intended  to  be  taken 
at  once  or  in  a few  divided  doses,  the  mixture  is  designated  as  Haustus  s.  Potio 
(Draught,  E. ; Tisane,  Potion,  Fr. ; Triinkchen,  G.).  Julapium  (Julep,  E.,  Fr.,  G.)  is 
a sweet  mixture  rendered  aromatic  by  the  addition  of  volatile  oil  or  medicated  water,  and 
occasionally  colored  by  the  use  of  a fruit  syrup  or  a little  cochineal,  etc.  A sweet  mix- 
ture prepared  so  as  to  have  a thick  syrupy  consistence  is  still  occasionally  distinguished 
as  Linctus  ( vel  Looch,  Lohoch,  Eclegma). 

MISTURA  CREOSOTI,  Creosote  Mixture. 

Mixture  de  creosote,  Fr. ; Kreosot-Mixtur,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Creosote,  Glacial  Acetic  Acid,  each  15  minims  ; Spirit  of 
Juniper  4 fluidrachm  ; Syrup  1 fluidounce ; Distilled  Water  15  fluidounces.  Mix  the 
creosote  with  the  acetic  acid,  gradually  add  the  water,  and  lastly  the  syrup  and  spirit  of 
juniper. — Br. 

Uses. — Creosote  mixture,  it  is  stated,  is  intended  to  allay  vomiting,  but  the  bulk  of 
its  dose  and  the  spirit  of  juniper  and  syrup  contained  in  it  render  it  peculiarly  unfit  to 
relieve  the  cases  of  vomiting  in  which  creosote  is  most  useful.  The  purpose  of  the 
glacial  acetic  acid  in  this  mixture  is  not  evident.  The  dose  is  stated  to  be  from  Gm.  32- 

64  (fgj-ij). 

MISTURA  CRETiE,  U.  8.,  Ui*.— Chalk  Mixture. 

Mixture  avec  la  craie,  Fr. ; Kreidemixtur , G. 

Preparation. — Compound  Chalk  Powder,  200  Gm. ; Cinnamon-water,  400  Cc. ; 
Water,  a sufficient  quantity,  to  make  1000  Cc.  Rub  the  compound  chalk  powder,  in  a 
mortar,  with  the  cinnamon-water  and  about  200  Cc.  of  water,  gradually  added,  to  a uni- 
form mixture ; transfer  this  to  a graduated  vessel,  and  rinse  the  mortar  with  enough 
water  to  make  the  product  measure  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  whole  thoroughly.  This  prepa- 
ration should  be  freshly  made,  when  wanted. — U.  S. 

To  prepare  4 fluidounces  of  chalk  mixture  will  require  365  grains  of  compound  chalk 
powder,  13  fluidrachms  of  cinnamon-water,  and  sufficient  water  to  make  32  fluidrachms. 

Take  of  prepared  chalk  1 ounce ; gum  acacia,  in  powder,  \ ounce ; syrup  4 fluidounce ; 
cinnamon-water  7 4 fluidounces.  Triturate  the  chalk  and  gum  acacia  with  the  cinnamon- 
water,  then  add  the  syrup,  and  mix.- — Br. 

This  mixture  spoils  readily  during  warm  weather ; the  addition  of  a little  glycerin  or  ) 
the  substitution  of  glycerin  for  the  sugar,  as  recommended  by  G.  W.  Kennedy  (1872),  \ 
would  tend  to  preserve  it  for  several  days  while  in  the  hands  of  the  patient,  but  it  should 
be  dispensed  only  freshly  made. 

Uses. — Chalk  mixture  is  one  of  the  most  convenient  forms  in  which  chalk  can  be 
administered  in  the  diarrhoeas  both  of  adults  and  children,  especially  when  the  discharges 
are  yeasty  or  greenish  and  there  is  flatulent  distension  of  the  abdomen  with  sour  eructa- 
tions. If  there  is  reason  to  suspect  the  presence  of  undigested  food  in  the  bowels,  a dose 
of  magnesia  should  first  be  given.  For  the  watery  diarrhoea  which  often  precedes  the 
attack  of  epidemic  cholera  there  is  no  better  medicine  than  this.  In  most  cases  laudanum 
should  be  added  to  the  mixture  or  given  along  with  it,  and  ordinarily  its  efficiency  is 
much  increased  by  the  addition  of  kino,  krameria,  or  catechu.  The  dose  is  Gm.  16 
(fgss). 

MISTURA  FERRI  AROMATICA,  Br. — Aromatic  Mixture  of  Iron. 

Potion  ( Mixture ) de  fer  aromatique,  Fr. ; Aromatische  Eisenmixtur , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Red  Cinchona-bark,  in  powder,  1 ounce ; Calumba-root,  in  j 
coarse  powder,  4 ounce ; Cloves,  bruised,  \ ounce ; Fine  Iron  Wire  4 ounce ; Compound  I 
Tincture  of  Cardamoms  3 fluidounces;  Tincture  of  Orange-peel  4 fluidounce;  Pepper- 
mint-water a sufficiency.  Macerate  the  cinchona-bark,  calumba-root,  cloves,  and  iron 
with  12  fluidounces  of  peppermint-water  in  a closed  vessel  for  three  days,  agitating  occa- 
sionally; then  filter  the  liquid,  adding  as  much  peppermint-water  to  the  filter  as  will 
make  the  product  measure  124  fluidounces;  to  this  add  the  tinctures,  and  preserve  the 
mixture  in  a well-stoppered  bottle, — Br. 


MISTURA  FERRI  COM  POSIT  A .—MISTURA  GLYCYRRHIZJE  COMPOSITA.  1043 


This  has  been  introduced  into  the  British  from  the  old  Dublin  Pharmacopoeia.  During 
the  maceration  a portion  of  the  iron  is  dissolved  by  the  organic  acids  contained  in  the 

drugs. 

Uses. — This  is  a mixture  of  bitter  tonics  and  aromatic  stimulants  with  a modicum  of 
iron.  Many  years  ago  it  was  appropriately  described  by  Neligon,  who  said ; “ In  conse- 
quence of  its  black  color  it  is  commonly  known  as  Heberderis  ink.”  It  is  an  unchemical 
compound,  but  an  excellent  tonic  ; it  is  very  generally  used  in  Dublin  in  the  various  states 
of  debility  attended  with  anaemia.  Bose , Gm.  32-64  (^j-ij). 

MISTURA  FERRI  COMPOSITA,  U.  S.9  T$v. — Compound  Iron  Mixture. 

Griffith  s mixture , E ; Mixture  de  Griffith , Fr. ; Griffith’s  Eisenmixtur , G. 

Preparation. — Ferrous  Sulphate,  in  crystals,  6 Gm. ; Myrrh,  in  small  pieces,  18  Gm. ; 
Sugar,  18  Gm. ; Potassium  Carbonate,  8 Gm. ; Spirit  of  Lavender,  60  Cc. ; llose-water, 
a sufficient  quantity,  to  make  1000  Cc.  Rub  the  myrrh,  sugar,  and  potassium  carbonate, 
in  a mortar,  with  700  Cc.  of  rose-water,  at  first  very  gradually  added,  so  that  a uniform 
mixture  may  result.  Transfer  this  to  a graduated  vessel,  add  the  spirit  of  lavender,  then 
the  ferrous  sulphate,  previously  dissolved  in  about  50  Cc.  of  rose-water,  and  lastly,  enough 
rose-water  to  make  the  product  measure  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  whole  thoroughly.  This, 
preparation  should  be  freshly  made,  when  wanted. — U.  S. 

Each  fluidounce  of  this  preparation  contains  about  3 grains  of  ferrous  sulphate,  91 
grains  each  of  myrrh  and  sugar,  4 grains  of  potassium  carbonate,  J fluidrachm  of  spirit 
of  lavender,  and  71  fluidrachms  of  rose-water. 

In  the  formula  directed  by  the  British  Pharmacopoeia  the  ingredients  are  sulphate  of 
iron  25  grains ; potassium  carbonate  30  grains ; myrrh  and  refined  sugar,  each  60  grains ; 
spirit  of  nutmeg  4 fluidrachms;  and  rose-water  9J  fluidounces  (Imperial). 

The  prepaiation  of  this  mixture  presents  no  difficulty  if  good  tears  of  myrrh  are 
selected  and  the  directions  are  strictly  followed.  The  reaction  between  the  iron  and 
potassium  salts,  resulting  in  the  formation  of  ferrous  carbonate  and  potassium  sulphate, 
takes  place  in  the  myrrh  emulsion,  by  which  the  insoluble  ferrous  carbonate  is  kept  in 
suspension.  Unless  in  full  and  well-corked  bottles,  the  mixture,  at  first  of  a dirty  green- 
ish color,  is  hardly  protected  against  oxidation  by  the  small  quantity  of  sugar  present 
and  should  be  freshly  made  when  needed. 

Uses.  This  preparation  has  special  advantages  over  other  ferruginous  medicines  in 
several  chronic  affections,  and  especially  in  chlorotic  ansemia,  chronic  bronchitis , albuminuria , 
and  certain  chronic  diseases  of  the  skin  (eczema,  psoriasis).  These  disorders  have  in  com- 
mon a deteriorated  condition  of  the  blood  and  a debility  of  the  nervous  system,  which 
t ic  lion  of  the  mixture  is  adapted  to  correct,  and  several  among  them  present  in  addition 
a relaxed  state  of  the  secretory  organs,  which  the  myrrh  and  the  sulphuric  acid  tend  to 
counteract.  The  first-named  two  are  those  which  usually  exhibit  the  most  favorable 
results  of  its  use.  The  mixture  was  originally  called  antihectic  from  the  utility  it  man- 
ifested in  hectical  conditions  of  pulmonary  disease — not  those,  however,  as  is  sometimes 
erroneously  supposed,  which  belong  to  tubercular  consumption,  but  those  of  chronic 
ironchitis  attended  with  purulent  expectoration,  and  usually  associated  with  dilatation 
of  the  bronchia.  The  dose  is  from  I ounce  to  U Gm.  16-40  (fgss-iss)  two  or  three 
times  a day.  v J 


MISTURA  GLYCYRRHIZA  COMPOSITA,  U.  S.- 

of  Glycyrrhiza. 


-Compound  Mixture 


Brown  Mixture , E. ; Mixture  de  reglisse , Fr. ; Lakritzen-Mixtur , G. 

Preparaticn  — Pure  Extract  of  Glycyrrhiza,  30  Gm. ; Syrup,  50  Cc. ; Mucilage  of 
;Sa’  ' ’ Camphorated  Tincture  of  Opium,  120  Cc. ; Wine  of  Antimony,  60  Cc. ; 

■ pint  of  Nitrous  Ether,  30  Cc. ; Water,  a sufficient  quantity,  to  make  1000  Cc.  Rub 
Tr!  P"re  ract,  . g>ycyrrhiza  in  a mortar,  with  500  Cc.  of  water,  until  it  is  dissolved, 
tip  m Gf  e.  solution  f°  a graduated  vessel  containing  the  other  ingredients,  and  rinse 
thoroughly  ^^e™ugh  water  t0  make  the  P^duct  measure  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  whole 

dvptrU  ?u^ck)Iinc®  .°f  ‘ brown  mixture  contains  about  15  grains  of  pure  extract  of 
eiycyrrhiza,  25  minims  of  syrup,  50  minims  of  mucilage  of  acacia,  1 fluidrachm  of  cam- 


1044  MISTURA  MAGNESIA  ET  ASA  FCETIDJE.— MISTURA  RHEI  ET  SODjE. 

phorated  tincture  of  opium,  30  minims  of  wine  of  antimony,  and  15  minims  of  spirit 
of  nitrous  ether. 

The  present  official  formula  differs  from  that  of  1880  in  ordering  syrup  and  mucilage 
in  place  of  sugar  and  powdered  acacia,  whereby  the  preparation  of  the  mixture  is  expe- 
dited. The  appearance  of  the  finished  product  is  still  very  unsightly  and  by  no  means 
in  keeping  with  modern  elegant  pharmacy.  The  formula  suggested  by  C.  Tilyard  in  1860 
yields  an  equally  efficient  and  far  handsomer  preparation : it  prescribes  a larger  propor- 
tion of  sugar  (by  no  means  a disadvantage),  and  can  be  still  further  improved  upon  by 
the  use  of  purified  extract  of  licorice,  as  now  ordered  by  the  Pharmacopoeia.  The 
formula  as  modified  and  adapted  to  the  proportions  of  the  Pharmacopoeia  is  as  follows : 
Dissolve  1 av.  oz.  of  purified  extract  of  glycyrrhiza  in  10  ounces  of  water;  add  4 fluid- 
ounces  of  camphorated  tincture  of  opium,  2 fluidounces  of  antimonial  wine,  and  1 fluid- 
ounce  of  spirit  of  nitrous  ether,  and  set  the  mixture  aside  for  twelve  or  twenty -four  hours 
with  occasional  agitation ; filter  the  liquid  into  a bottle  containing  3 fluidounces  of  muci- 
lage of  acacia  and  20  av.  ozs.  of  granulated  sugar,  and  wash  the  filter  with  sufficient 
water  to  bring  the  volume  of  the  finished  product  up  to  2 pints.  The  sugar  is  readily 
dissolved  by  agitation,  and  the  result  is  a thin,  rich-looking,  clear  syrup  which  keeps 
admirably. 

Uses. — Compound  liquorice  mixture,  or  brown  mixture , as  it  is  frequently  called,  is  an 
agreeable  and  efficient  remedy  in  the  early  stages  of  acute  bronchitis  and  catarrhal  laryn- 
gitis. It  hastens  and  promotes  expectoration,  chiefly  by  reducing  the  febrile  tension  of 
the  vascular  system.  The  average  dose  for  an  adult  is  dm.  16  (fjss). 

MISTURA  MAGNESITE  ET  A SAFCETID^].—  Mixture  of  Magnesia 

AND  ASAFETIDA. 

Mistura  carminativa  Dewees- — Dewees1  carminative , E. ; Mixture  carminative  de  Dewees, 
Fr. ; Dewees'  Carminativ , G. 

Preparation. — Magnesium  carbonate,  5 parts  (350  grains) ; Tincture  of  Asafetida, 
7 parts  (490  grains  or  81  fluidraclims)  ; Tincture  of  Opium,  1 part  (70  grains  or  75 
minims) ; Sugar,  10  parts  (700  grains  or  If  oz.  av.) ; Distilled  Water,  a sufficient 
quantity,  to  make  100  parts  (7000  grains).  Pub  the  magnesium  carbonate  and  sugar 
in  a mortar  with  the  tincture  of  asafetida  and  tincture  of  opium.  Then  gradually  add 
enough  distilled  water  to  make  the  mixture  weigh  100  parts  (7000  grains  = 16  oz.  av.  or 
about  15  fluidounces). 

Uses.— It  is  to  be  regretted  that  this  mixture  was  made  official.  An  intelligent 
physician  would  desire  to  vary  the  proportions  of  its  several  constituents,  and  especially 
of  its  narcotic  ingredient,  for  almost  every  case  of  infantile  colic  under  his  care.  Such 
mixtures  do  not  tend  to  promote  rational  medicine.  It  will  be  observed  that  the  laudanum 
in  this  mixture  forms  one-hundredth  of  the  whole.  The  average  dose  is  Gm.  1.25 
(nixx). 

MISTURA  OLEI  RICINI,  Br.  Add. — Castor-oil  Mixture- 

Mixture  d'huile  de  ricin , Fr. ; Ridnusoel  Mixtur , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Castor  Oil,  6 fluidrachms ; Oil  of  Lemon,  10  minims ; Oil 
of  Cloves,  2 minims;  Syrup,  II  fluidrachms;  Solution  of  Potash,  1 fluidrachm  ; Orange- 
flower  water  sufficient,  to  produce  2 fluidounces.  Mix  the  oils  in  a mortar  ; then  incor- 
porate one-third  of  the  solution  of  potash,  and  afterward  the  syrup,  then  an  additional 
third  of  the  solution  of  potash,  then,  gradually,  half  of  the  orange-flower  water,  rhe 
remainder  of  the  solution  of  potash,  and  lastly,  enough  orange-flower  water  to  produce 
the  required  volume. — Br.  Add. 

This  mixture  cannot  be  strictly  classed  among  the  emulsions,  since  partial  saponification 
of  the  oil  is  effected  by  aid  of  the  potassium  hydroxide,  and  this  facilitates  the  suspension 
of  the  remaining  oil  in  the  aqueous  liquid.  Each  fluidrachm  of  the  preparation  contains 
221  minims  of  castor  oil. 

Dose , I to  2 fluidounces. 

MISTURA  RHEI  ET  SOD.ZE,  U.  S. — Mixture  of  Rhubarb  and  Soda. 

Potion  d la  rhubarbe  alcaline,  Fr. ; Alkalische  Rhabarbcr mixtur,  G. 

Preparation. — Sodium  Bicarbonate,  35  Gm. ; Fluid  Extract  of  Rhubarb,  15  Cc. ; 


MIST  UR  A SENNTE  COM  POSIT  A . -MON ARD  A . 


1045 


Fluid  Extract  of  Ipecac,  3 Cc. ; Glycerin,  350  Cc. ; Spirit  of  Peppermint,  35  Cc. ; Water, 
a sufficient  quantity,  to  make  1000  Cc.  Dissolve  the  sodium  bicarbonate  in  about  400 
Cc.  of  water.  Then  add  the  fluid  extracts,  the  glycerin,  and  the  spirit  of  peppermint, 
and,  lastly,  enough  water  to  make  1000  Cc. — U.  IS. 

To  prepare  4 fluidounees  of  this  mixture  dissolve  64  grains  of  sodium  bicarbonate  in 
14  fluidrachms  of  water,  add  30  minims  of  fluid  extract  of  rhubarb,  6 minims  of  fluid 
extract  of  ipecac,  12  fluidrachms  of  glycerin,  72  minims  of  spirit  of  peppermint,  and, 
finally,  enough  water  to  make  the  volume  as  desired. 

The  mixture  has  a deep  brown-red  color. 

Uses. — Like  the  mixture  of  magnesia  and  asafetida,  this  preparation  is  much  more 
appropriate  for  magistral  than  for  official  prescription.  The  Pharmacopoeia  already  pos- 
sesses the  aromatic  syrup  of  rhubarb,  which  is  purgative  and  carminative,  and  to  it 
bicarbonate  of  sodium  is  commonly  added  when  required.  The  dose  of  this  mixture  is 
variously  stated  at  from  4 drachm  ( U.  S.  D.')  to  3 ounces  (Ede’s  Handbook ).  For  infantile 
dyspeptic  colic  and  diarrhoea  about  Gm.  2 (f^ss)  may  be  given,  and  repeated,  if  necessary, 
at  hourly  intervals. 


MISTURA  SENN^E  COMPOSITA,  Br. 

(See  Compound  Mixture  of  Senna,  under  Infusum  Senna:,  p.  873.) 

MISTURA  SPIRITUS  VINI  GALLICI,  Br. 

Mixture  of  spirit  of  French  brandy , Brandy  mixture , E. ; Mixture  de  cognac , Fr. ; Brannt- 
wein-Mixtur , G. 

Preparation. — -Take  of  French  Brandy,  Cinnamon-water,  each  4 fluidounees ; the 
Yolks  of  2 Eggs ; Refined  Sugar,  4 an  ounce.  Rub  the  yolks  and  sugar  together,  then 
add  the  cinnamon-water  and  spirit. — Br. 

In  our  opinion  this  preparation  scarcely  deserves  a place  in  a pharmacopoeia. 

Uses. — As  a nutritious  and  stimulant  draught  this  preparation  is  often  useful  in 
typhoid  states  of  fever  and  in  exhaustion  from  nervous  excitement,  haemorrhage,  and 
other  conditions  which  do  not  contraindicate  the  use  of  alcohol.  “ Eggnog  ” made  with 
milk  is  much  more  efficient  than  this  preparation. 

MITCHELL  A. — Mitchella. 

Partridgeberry , Oheckerberry , Squaw-vine , Winterclover,  E. 

Mitchella  repens,  Innne. 

Mat.  Ord. — Rubiaceae,  Cinchoneae. 

Description. — This  pretty  North  American  evergreen,  which  is  found  in  woods,  has 
a creeping  and  branching  stem  25-30  Cm.  (10  to  12  inches)  long,  and  opposite  petiolate, 
roundish-ovate,  entire  leaves,  which  are  about  12  Mm.  (4  inch)  long,  and  often  marked 
with  white  lines.  The  flowers  are  in  pairs,  often  dioecious,  have  a white  or  pale-purplish 
funnel-shaped  corolla,  and  four  exserted  or  included  stamens,  and  produce  a rather  dry 
berry-like  scarlet-red  fruit,  which  is  composed  of  two  united  ovaries  and  contains  four 
bony  nutlets.  The  flowers  are  fragrant ; the  leaves  are  inodorous,  somewhat  astringent, 
and  bitter. 

Constituents. — Brenneiser  (1887),  besides  the  usual  constituents  of  plants,  found  a 
saponin-like  body,  precipitable  by  baryta,  and  frothing  in  aqueous  solution,  and  also  a 
principle  yielding  precipitates  with  tannin  and  picric  acid,  but  being  neither  alkaloid  nor 
glucoside. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  virtues  of  this  plant  are  exceedingly  indefinite,  for  it  is 
reputed  to  be  diuretic,  tonic,  and  astringent,  and  capable  of  facilitating  childbirth  if  taken 
for  several  weeks  before  the  close  of  pregnancy.  It  very  probably  may  be  useful  in 
chronic  disorders  of  the  urinary  passages  when  given  in  decoction. 

MONARDA. — Horsemint. 

American  horsemint,  E. ; Menthe  de  cheval , Fr. : Pferdeminze , G. 

^The  leaves  and  tops  of  Monarda  punctata,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 

Mat.  Ord. — Labiatae,  Monardeae. 


1046 


MON  ESI  A. 


Fig.  1S4. 


Origin. — Horsemint  is  a perennial  herb  30-60  Cm.  (1  to  2 feet)  high,  which  is  indig- 
enous to  the  United  States,  where  it  grows  in  dry  sandy 
fields  from  New  York  westward  to  Illinois,  and  southward 
to  near  the  Gulf  of  Mexico.  It  flowers  in  the  latter  part 
of  summer  until  September,  and  should  be  collected  with 
the  flowering  tops. 

Description. — The  leaves  are  about  5 Cm.  (2  inches) 
long,  lanceolate,  somewhat  toothed,  acute,  narrowed  at  the 
base  into  a petiole,  smooth  above,  and  glandular  dotted 
beneath.  The  whorls  of  cymules  are  about  ten-flowered, 
situated  in  the  axils  of  the  upper  leaves,  and  surrounded 
by  about  eight  leafy,  sessile,  and  entire  bracts,  which  are 
pale-yellow  and  purple  in  color.  The  tubular,  downy 
calyx  is  divided  into  five  short  and  rigid  teeth.  The 
Flower  of  Monarda  punctata,  Linne.  corolla  is  prominent,  yellowish,  with  the  large  arched 

upper  lip  spotted  with  purple,  and  a small,  three-lobed, 
somewhat  crisped  lower  lip.  The  two  slender  exserted  stamens  are  inserted  in  the  throat 
above  the  narrow  corolla-tube.  Horsemint  has  a strong  aromatic  odor  and  a warm,  pun- 
gent. somewhat  bitterish  taste. 


Other  Species  of  Monarda. — M.  didyma,  Linne , or  Oswego  tea,  is  found  in  the  Alleghanies 
and  northward  to  Canada  and  Wisconsin.  It  has  the  larger  bracts  and  floral  leaves  tinged  with 
red,  and  showy  bright-red  corollas,  with  the  stamens  exserted  beyond  the  narrow  upper  lip. 

M.  fistulosa,  Limit,  or  wild  bergamot,  has  the  larger  bracts  and  floral  leaves  of  a grayish  tint, 
and  whitish  or  pale-purplish  flowers  with  exserted  stamens ; it  grows  in  woodlands  from  New 
England  to  Wisconsin  southward. 

Substitutions. — 111  some  counties  of  Pennsylvania  Pycnanthemum  incanum, 
Michaux,  or  wild  basil , is  known  and  popularly  used  as  horsemint ; the  plant  is  downy 
to  hoary,  has  acute,  ovate,  or  oblong  leaves,  the  upper  ones  whitened,  and  the  flowers  in 
dense  heads  with  narrow  linear  bracts  and  awned  calyx-lobes.  In  Great  Britain,  Mentha 
sylvestris,  Linne,  is  known  as  horsemint. 

Constituents. — The  important  constituent  is  the  volatile  oil,  which  is  contained  in 
the  leaves  and  flowers ; nothing  is  known  about  the  other  principles,  among  which  are 
doubtless  those  commonly  met  with  in  herbaceous  plants. 

Oleum  monarch,  V S.  1810. — Oil  of  horsemint,  E.;  Essence  de  menthe  de  cheval, 
Ft.  ; Pferdeminzol,  G. — This  volatile  oil  is  obtained  in  the  United  States  from  fresh 
horsemint  by  distillation  with  water  or  steam.  It  is  yellowish  or  usually  of  a reddish  or 
brownish-red  color,  lighter  than  water,  readily  soluble  in  alcohol,  crystallizing  below  5° 
C.  (39°  F.),  and  of  a peculiar  fragrant  odor  and  pungent  taste.  Boiled  with  nitro-prus- 
;side  of  copper,  it  becomes  colorless,  greenish,  brown,  and  finally  nearly  black.  Iodine 
dissolves  quietly,  turning  the  oil  bright  red,  afterward  blackish  and  pitchy.  The  elaeop- 
ten  is  probably  a hydrocarbon,  but  has  not  been  examined.  The  stearopten  is  tligmol, 
C10HuO,  identical  with  that  obtained  from  oil  of  thyme.  (See  Thymol.) 

Action  and  Uses. — Horsemint  is  regarded  as  being  diaphoretic,  diuretic,  carmina- 
tive, and  emmenagogue,  like  most  other  plants  of  its  class  containing  an  acrid  essential 
oil.  It  may  be  used  in  hot  infusion  to  prevent  the  formation  of  catarrhal,  rheumatic,  and 
diarrhoeal  affections  occasioned  by  cold.  The  infusion  is  usually  made  with  Gm.  16 
in  Gm.  500,  half  an  ounce  of  the  herb  in  a pint  of  hot  water,  and  may  be  given  in 
wineglassful  doses.  The  smallest  drop  of  the  oil  of  horsemint  diffuses  a pungent, 
aromatic,  and  persistent  heat  over  the  tongue  and  fauces ; when  applied  to  the  skin  it 
excites  redness  and  heat,  and,  if  the  application  is  continued,  pain  and  vesication  also. 
It  may  be  used  for  the  same  purposes  as  oil  of  pepermint,  etc.,  but  is  more  frequently 
employed  with  soap  liniment  or  camphorated  oil  in  embrocations  to  relieve  the  pain  of 
muscular  rheumatism , chronic  articular  rheumatism,  and  neuralgia.  It  is  also  applied  in 
liniments  for  local  paralysis,  flatulent  colic,  cholera  infantum,  and  even  in  low  forms  of 
fever.  For  these  purposes  1 part  of  oil  to  3 or  four  of  the  excipient  may  be  prescribed. 
In  neuralgia  it  may  be  applied  pure.  Internally  the  oil  may  be  given  in  doses  of  Gm. 
0.06-0.15  (npi-iij),  properly  diluted  with  sweetened  water. 


MONESIA. — Monesia-Bark. 

The  bark  of  Chrysophyllum  glyciphloeum,  Casaretti. 

Nat.  Ord. — Sapotaceae. 


MO  NEST  A. 


1047 


Origin. — The  tree  yielding  monesia-bark  is  indigenous  to  the  forests  of  Brazil,  and 
has  alternate,  coriaceous,  and  entire  leaves.  The  berry-like  fruits  of  several  species  of 
Chrysophyllum  are  edible,  Ch.  Cainito,  Linne , being  known  as  star-apple. 

Description. — The  bark  is  ir>  flat  or  curved  pieces  3 to  nearly  6 Mm.  (fi  to  1 inch) 
thick,  often  5 to  7 Cm.  (2  or  3 inches)  broad,  externally  marked  with  confluent  ridges, 
forming  large  irregularly  quadrangular  or  hexagonal  meshes,  which  are  covered  with  a 
thin,  smooth,  whitish  tissue  while  the  bark  is  young.  The  inner  surface  is  cinnamon- 
colored  and  longitudinally  striate,  otherwise  smooth.  The  bark  is  very  hard,  breaks  with 
a granular  fracture,  and  shows  in  the  interior  alternate  layers  of  brown  and  pale-reddish 
tissue.  It  is  inodorous  and  has  a peculiar  taste,  which  is  at  first  sweet  like  liquorice, 
afterward  bitterish,  somewhat  acrid  and  astringent. 

Constituents. — Monesia-bark  was  examined  by  Derosne,  Henry,  and  Payen  (1840), 
who  announced  the  presence  of  glycyrrliizin , monesin , which  appears  to  be  identical  with 
saponin,  tannin , red-coloring  matter  resembling  kinic  red,  trace  of  volatile  oil,  pectin,  3 
per  cent,  of  ash,  etc.  Heydenreich  (1839)  separated  from  the  aqueous  extract  52  per 
cent,  of  tannin  and  36  per  cent,  of  a sweet  principle,  which  was  not  precipitated  by  sul- 
phuric acid  or  lead  acetate,  and  was  not  fermentable. 

Extractum  monesi^e,  Monesia , comes  from  Brazil  in  irregular  dark-brown  friable 
angular  pieces,  destitute  of  any  red  hue.  It  is  soluble  in  water,  and  has  a sweet  after- 
ward astringent  taste,  followed  by  slight  but  persistent  acridity. 

Allied  Trees. — Achras  Sapota,  Linne , s.  Sapota  Achras,  Miller , is  known  in  the  West  Indies 
and  South  America  as  sapota  ( zapotillo , Sp.) ; it  has  large  whitish  flowers  and  globular-oval 
somewhat  angular  fruits,  which  are  externally  rust-brown  and  rough,  internally  whitish,  and 
soft-pulpy,  and  contain  several  glossy  black  seeds.  The  tree  contains  a bitter  milk-juice.  The 
bark  has  a bitter  and  strongly  astringent  taste,  and  is  employed  as  a febrifuge.  Bernou  (1882) 
found  in  it  two  resins,  11.8  per  cent,  of  tannin,  and  the  alkaloid  sapotine , which  is  soluble  in 
alcohol,  ether,  and  chloroform,  and  is  precipitated  from  its  salts  by  ammonia.  The  ripe  fruit 
has  a quince-like  flavor,  and  is  known  as  sapodilla  plum.  The  very  bitter  seeds  possess  diuretic 
and  aperient  properties;  they  contain  an  acrid,  white  crystalline  glucoside,  sapotin , c29h52o 

20) 

which  is  soluble  in  water  and  hot  alcohol,  but  insoluble  in  ether,  chloroform,  and  benzene  (G. 
Michaud,  1891). 

Lucuma  salicifolia,  Kunth , is  the  zapote  borracho  (z.  amarillo ) of  Mexico,  the  fruit  being 
considered  soporific,  and  the  seed  useful  in  pleurisy. 

Mimusops  Elengi,  Linne.  The  bark  and  root  are  used  in  India  as  a tonic  and  astringent ; 
the  flowers  yield  by  distillation  with  water  a very  fragrant  perfume ; the  fruit  is  sweet  and 
edible ; the  seeds  yield  a fixed  drying  oil,  and  the  timber  is  durable  and  heavy. 

Bassia  lo.ngifolia,  Linn£.  The  East  Indian  elloopa  tree  yields  valuable  timber,  and  from  the 
flowers  and  fruits  a nourishing  jelly  ; the  leaves  and  bark,  like  the  fixed  oil  of  the  seed,  are 
used  in  rheumatic  and  cutaneous  diseases.  A similar  use  is  made  of fiulwa-butter,  a butyraceous 
fat  prepared  from  the  pale-brown  glossy  seeds  of  Bassia  butyracea,  Roxburgh. 

Action  and. Uses. — Internally  and  in  small  doses,  as  from  4 to  8 grains,  monesia 
gives  tone  to  the  stomach  and  increases  the  appetite,  but  in  doses  of  20  or  30  grains  it 
occasions  gastric  oppression  and  constipation.  Upon  recent  sores  it  causes  a burning  and 
stinging  pain  of  brief  duration,  lessening  their  secretions  and  promoting  granulation  and 
citatrization.  Monesin  acts  upon  such  sores  as  a more  active  irritant,  inducing  rapidly  a 
plastic  exudation. 

The  medicinal  uses  of  monesia  denote  its  possession  of  a stimulant  as  well  as  an  astrin- 
gent property.  It  has  been  found  useful  in  atonic  dyspepsia , in  vomiting  produced  by 
atony  rather  than  by  active  irritation  of  the  stomach,  and  in  all  forms  of  diarrhoea  unat- 
tended with  fever.  It  has  been  employed  with  profit  in  chronic  bronchitis , in  various 
forms  of  haemorrhage,  especially  hsemoptysis  and  menorrhagia , and  locally  by  injection  in 
episfaxis.  In  various  ecchymoses  depending  upon  scurvy  its  internal  administration  is 
said  to  have  been  advantageous.  As  a topical  application  it  has  been  recommended  in 
ulcers  and  pseudo-membranous  exudations  of  the  mouth  and  fauces  and  of  many  other 
parts ; also  in  leucorrhoea  and  gleet , and  especially  in  fissures  of  the  mouth  and  anus. 
Although  these  virtues  of  monesia  appear  to  have  been  demonstrated  by  clinical  obser- 
vation, the  medicine  seems  to  have  been  neglected  and  almost  fallen  into  disuse. 

The  dose  of  monesia  may  be  stated  at  from  Gm.  0.15-1.30  (gr.  iij-xx)  or  Gm.  0.60-4 
(gr.  x-lx)  a day.  Monesin  has  been  recommended  in  the  dose  of  I grain.  For  local 
applications  the  tincture  diluted  with  from  10  to  20  parts  of  water  has  been  used  ; also 
an  ointment  made  with  1 part  of  the  extract  to  7 of  lard,  and  a glycerole  of  similar  pro- 
portions 


1048 


MORI  S UCC  US.  —MORPH IN  A . 


MORI  SUCCUS,  Br, — Mulberry- juice. 

Succus  mororum. — Sue  de  mures , Fr.  ; Maulbeersaft , G. ; Jugo  del  moras , Sp. 

The  juice  of  the  ripe  fruit  of  Morus  nigra,  Linne.  Steph.  and  Church,  Med.  Bot ., 
plate  39  ; Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 229. 

Nat.  Ord. — Urticaceae,  Artocarpeae. 

Origin  — The  black  like  the  white  mulberry,  Morus  alba,  Linne , is  indigenous  to  the 
Levant;  both  are  rather  small  trees,  about  9 M.  (30  feet)  high,  and  are  cultivated  and 
partly  naturalized  in  Europe,  where  the  leaves  of  both,  more  generally  of  the  white,  are 
employed  for  feeding  the  silkworm.  Both  species  are  also  occasionally  seen  in  cultiva- 
tion in  the  United  States ; alba,  however,  is  alone  naturalized.  The  mulberry  is 
usually  monoecious  ; the  staminate  flowers  are  in  loose  catkins,  the  pistillate  flowers  in 
short  dense  spikes  ; the  latter  flowers  contain  a two-celled  ovary  with  two  thread-like 
styles,  one  of  the  cells  disappearing  after  fructification,  while  the  four-lobed  calyx 
becomes  fleshy. 

Description. — Through  the  coalescence  of  the  fleshy  calyces  the  pistillate  spikes  of 
the  mulberry  ripen  into  what  appears  to  be  a compound  berry  or  drupe  having  some 
resemblance  to  the  blackberry.  The  mulberry  is  of  an  oblong  or  ovate  form,  about  25 
M.  (1  inch)  long,  fleshy  and  juicy,  purplish-black,  each  fruit  crowned  with  the  filiform 
styles.  The  fruit  proper  is  a lenticular  akene  enclosed  in  the  fleshy  calyx.  Mulberries 
contain  a dark  reddish-purple  juice,  and  have  scarcely  any  odor,  but  possess  a very 
agreeable  acidulous  taste. 

Morus  rubra,  Linne , is  common  in  rich  woods  in  the  United  States  from  Western 
New  England  southward  to  Florida,  and  westward  to  Dakota  and  New  Mexico.  It  is 
usually  from  6 M.  (20  feet),  but  occasionally  18  (60  feet)  high,  and  has  a durable,  hard, 
yellowish  wood.  The  fruit  is  dark-purple,  25-38  Mm.  (1  to  1J  inches)  long,  and  other- 
wise resembles  the  preceding. 

Constituents. — From  comparative  experiments  made  in  the  laboratory  of  Fresenius 
(1857),  it  appears  that  mulberries  contain  more  sugar  than  gooseberries,  currants,  straw- 
berries, raspberries,  blackberries,  and  huckleberries,  while  in  the  free  acid  they  are  about 
intermediate  between  wild  and  cultivated  raspberries.  The  analytical  results,  as  ob- 
tained by  Van  Hees,  were  as  follows,  caculated  for  100  parts  of  the  fruit : sugar,  9.192, 
free  acid  (estimated  as  malic  acid)  1.860,  albuminous  compounds  0.394,  pectin,  gum,  and 
other  organic  compounds  2.031,  ashes  0.566,  and  water  84.707  parts,  the  remaining  1,250 
parts  consisting  of  the  akenes  and  other  tissues,  with  the  insoluble  organic  compounds 
and  ash. 

C.  B.  A.  Wright  and  G.  Patterson  (1878)  examined  the  juice  expressed  from  mul- 
berries not  quite  ripe,  and  obtained  from  one  liter  26.83  Gm.  of  citric  acid,  7.82  malic 
acid,  2.74  glucose,  23.37  other  organic  constituents,  and  9.40  ash — a total  of  76.16  Gm. 
of  solids.  The  juice  had  slightly  fermented,  and  contained  a trace  of  volatile,  probably 
acetic,  acid. 

Action  and  Uses. — -Mulberries  are  refreshing  to  the  taste  like  all  subacid  fruits, 
and  slightly  laxative.  Their  fresh  juice,  or  a syrup  prepared  with  it,  is  frequently  em- 
ployed in  Europe  for  the  same  purposes  to  which  in  this  country  the  juice  and  jelly  of 
currants  are  applied — viz.  in  inflammations  with  fever , and  especially  sore  throat.  The 
bark  of  the  root  of  Morus  nigra  has  been  found  an  efficient  substitute  for  pomegranate- 
root  in  the  treatment  of  taenia. 

MORPHINA,  U.  S. — Morphine. 

Morphia , Morphinum , Morphium. — Morphia , E.  ; Morphine, Fr. ; Morpliin , G. 

Formula  CnH19N03.H20.  Molecular  weight  302.34. 

Origin. — Morphine  is  an  alkaloid  which  has  thus  far  only  been  found  in  opium,  in  the 
capsules  of  the  different  varieties  of  Papaver  somniferum,  Linne , and  in  the  milk-juice 
of  the  red-flowering  Pap.  orientale,  Linne  ; according  to  Charbonnier  (1868),  it  is  also 
present  in  Argemone  mexicana,  Linne.  Although  obtained  by  Derosne  (1803)  in  an 
impure  condition  by  precipitating  a concentrated  infusion  of  opium  with  ammonia,  it  was 
confounded  by  him  with  narcotine.  Sertiirner  (1816),  however,  not  only  established  its 
difference  from  that  body,  but  also  proved  its  basic  nature  and  its  poisonous  effects. 
Morphine  was  the  first  organic  alkaloid  known. 

Preparation. — The  process  of  Dr.  E.  Staples  (1829)  is  essentially  the  following: 
Opium,  sliced,  12  troyounces ; Water  of  Ammonia,  6 fluiaounces ; Animal  Charcoal,  m 


MORPHINA. 


1049 


fine  powder,  Alcohol,  Distilled  Water,  each  a sufficient  quantity.  Macerate  the  opium 
with  4 pints  of  distilled  water  for  twenty-four  hours,  and,  having  worked  it  with  the 
hands,  again  macerate  for  twenty-four  hours,  and  strain.  In  like  manner,  macerate  the 
residue  twice  successively  with  the  same  quantity  of  distilled  water,  and  strain.  Mix 
the  infusions,  evaporate  to  6 pints,  and  filter ; then  add  5 pints  of  alcohol,  and  afterward 
3 fluidounces  of  the  water  of  ammonia,  mixed,  as  before,  with  £ pint  of  alcohol,  and  set 
the  liquid  aside  for  twenty-four  hours  that  crystals  may  form.  To  purify  these,  boil 
them  with  2 pints  of  alcohol  until  they  are  dissolved,  filter  the  solution  while  hot 
through  animal  charcoal,  and  set  it  aside  to  crystallize. 

On  maceration  with  water,  the  morphine,  minute  traces  excepted,  is  readily  dissolved, 
together  with  other  constituents.  To  decompose  the  morphine  salt  ammonia  is  added  ; 
by  this  process  the  morphine  is  rapidly  deposited,  together  with  narcotine  and  some  of 
the  other  alkaloids,  and  mixed  with  considerable  coloring  matter,  from  which  it  may  be 
freed  by  repeatedly  recrystallizing  from  dilute  hydrochloric  acid  and  expressing.  Most 
of  the  coloring  matter  and  narcotine  remains  in  solution,  and  at  the  same  time  not 
an  inconsiderable  amount  of  morphine  hydrochlorate  enters  the  mother-liquors,  from 
which  it  may  be  subsequently  recovered.  If,  however,  the  concentrated  infusion  of 
opium  is  mixed  with  not  more  than  an  equal  bulk  of  the  alcohol,  and  a sufficient  amount 
of  ammonia-water  is  added,  the  morphine  will  be  more  slowly  precipitated  in  a crystalline 
condition,  while  the  great  bulk  of  the  coloring  matter  remains  in  solution.  The  slower 
the  separation  of  the  alkaloid,  the  larger  and  purer  will  be  its  crystals  ; hence  the 
advantage  of  adding  the  ammonia  in  separate  portions.  Since  morphine  is  soluble  in 
ammonia,  only  sufficient  of  the  latter  should  be  added  to  unite  with  the  acids,  and  if 
in  slight  excess  it  should  be  allowed  to  evaporate  by  exposure.  The  mother-liquor  from 
this  evaporation  contains  a small  amount  of  morphine,  which,  when  working  on  a larger 
scale,  it  is  important  to*  recover.  The  alcohol  may  be  distilled  off,  and  if  not  otherwise 
purified  may  be  reserved  for  a similar  purpose.  If  the  process  has  been  well,  conducted, 
the  crude  morphine  has  a light-brownish  color,  which  is  removed  by  dissolving  in  hot 
alcohol  and  treating  with  animal  charcoal.  The  mother-liquor  from  this  crystallization 
retains  a portion  of  the  morphine,  together  with  the  narcotine  first  precipitated.  On 
distilling  off  the  alcohol  the  alkaloids  are  obtained,  and  may  be  preserved  until  sufficiently 
accumulated  for  further  purification.  Narcotine  may  be  separated  from  morphine  by 
treatment  with  ether,  in  which  the  former  is  readily  soluble,  the  latter  entirely  insoluble. 

Many  other  processes  have  been  proposed.  As  a rule,  the  treatment  of  opium  with 
acidulated  water  or  alcohol  offers  no  advantages,  since  more  narcotine  and  other  organic 
compounds  are  thereby  dissolved.  Wittstock  proposed  to  separate  the  narcotine  from 
the  infusion  of  opium  by  sodium  chloride,  in  which  the  narcotine  is  insoluble,  but  a little 
morphine  is  likewise  liable  to  be  deposited.  The  first  precipitation  with  ammonia  is  some- 
times effected  at  a boiling  temperature  ; after  cooling  the  morphine  will  be  granular,  and 
may  be  more  advantageously  washed  with  cold  water  and  expressed.  Precipitation  with 
sodium  carbonate  does  not  appear  to  ensure  a larger  yield.  Pelletier  observed  that 
when  acetic  acid  is  added  to  crude  powdered  morphine  until  the  liquid  begins  to  retain  an 
acid  reaction,  all  the  morphine  will  be  dissolved,  while  the  narcotine  remains  behind  ; and 
this  behavior  may  be  used  for  separating  the  two  alkaloids ; or  the  impure  morphine  may 
be  completely  dissolved  in  dilute  acetic  acid,  the  solution  evaporated  to  dryness,  and  the 
residue  treated  with  water,  which  leaves  narcotine.  Gregory  has  proposed  a process 
which  has  been  adopted  by  the  British  Pharmacopoeia  for  preparing  morphine  hydro- 
chlorate from  opium,  and  which  has  the  advantage  of  dispensing  with  alcohol  in  the 
purification  of  the  alkaloid.  To  obtain  this  in  a pure  state  the  following  directions  are 
given:  Take  of  opium,  sliced,  1 pound;  calcium  chloride  f ounce;  purified  animal  char- 
coal £ ounce  ; solution  of  ammonia,  distilled  water,  each  a sufficiency.  Macerate  the  opium 
for  twenty-four  hours  with  2 pints  of  the  water,  and  decant.  Macerate  the  residue  for 
twelve  hours  with  2 pints  of  the  water,  decant,  and  repeat  the  process  with  the  same 
quantity  of  the  water,  subjecting  the  insoluble  residue  to  strong  pressure.  Unite  the 
liquors,  evaporate  in  a water-bath  to  the  bulk  of  1 pint,  and  strain  through  calico.  Pour 
in  now  the  calcium  chloricPe,  previously  dissolved  in  4 fluidounces  of  distilled  water, 
and  evaporate  until  the  solution  is  so  far  concentrated  that  upon  cooling  it  becomes  solid. 
Envelop  the  mass  in  a double  fold  of  strong  calico  and  subject  it  to  powerful  pres- 
sure, preserving  the  dark  fluid  which  exudes.  Triturate  the  squeezed  cake  with  about 
2 pint  of  boiling  distilled  water,  and,  the  whole  being  thrown  upon  a paper  filter,  wash 
the  residue  well  with  boiling  distilled  water.  The  filtered  fluids  having  been  evaporated 
as  before,  cooled,  and  solidified,  again  subject  the  mass  to  pressure;  and,  if  it  be  still 


1050 


MORPH  IN  A. 


much  colored,  repeat  this  process  a third  time,  the  expressed  liquids  being  always  pre- 
served. Dissolve  the  pressed  cake  in  6 fluidounces  of  boiling  distilled  water ; add  the 
animal  charcoal  and  digest  for  20  minutes ; wash  the  filter  and  charcoal  with  boiling  dis- 
tilled water,  and  to  the  solution  thus  obtained  add  the  solution  of  ammonia  in  slight 
excess.  Let  the  pure  crystalline  morphia,  which  separates  as  the  liquids  cool,  be  col- 
lected on  a paper  filter  and  washed  with  cold  distilled  water  until  the  washings  cease  to 
give  a precipitate  with  solution  of  silver  nitrate  acidulated  by  nitric  acid.  From  the 
dark  liquids  expressed  in  the  above  process  an  additional  product  may  be  obtained  by 
diluting  them  with  distilled  water,  precipitating  with  solution  of  potash  added  in  con- 
siderable excess,  filtering,  and  supersaturating  the  filtrate  with  hydrochloric  acid.  This 
acid  liquid,  digested  with  a little  animal  charcoal  and  again  filtered,  gives,  upon  the  addi- 
tion of  ammonia,  a small  quantity  of  pure  morphia. — Br. 

In  this  process  the  morphine  salts,  as  naturally  obtained  in  the  opium,  are  decomposed 
by  an  excess  of  calcium  chloride,  with  the  formation  of  morphine  hydrochlorate,  which, 
crystallizing  on  cooling  from  the  sufficiently  concentrated  solution,  produces  with  the 
calcium  meconate  a solid  mass,  from  which  the  mother-liquor  is  removed  by  strong  pres- 
sure. The  pressed  cake,  on  being  treated  with  boiling  water,  yields  up  the  morphine  (and 
codeine)  hydrochlorate,  while  the  calcium  meconate  remains  upon  the  filter.  The  evapo- 
ration, expression,  and  resolution  are  repeated  until  most  of  the  coloring  matter  has 
entered  the  mother-liquors  and  nearly  the  whole  of  the  calcium  meconate  remains  upon 
the  filter.  The  removal  of  the  last  traces  of  color  is  then  effected  by  animal  charcoal, 
and  the  morphine  precipitated  in  a granular  condition  by  adding  a slight  excess  of  ammo- 
nia to  the  boiling  solution.  The  dark-colored  mother-liquors  contain,  besides  coloring 
matter  and  calcium  salts,  narcotine  and  morphine,  which  are  precipitated  by  potassa,  an 
excess  of  which  dissolves  the  latter  readily  and  completely,  but  narcotine  sparingly  and 
slowly,  as  observed  by  Robiquet,  Wittstock,  and  others.  The  filtration  of  the  strongly 
alkaline  liquid  must,  therefore,  not  be  long  delayed ; and  when  the  clear  liquid  is  acidu- 
lated with  hydrochloric  acid  it  contains  morphine  hydrochlorate,  potassium  chloride,  and 
some  coloring  matter,  from  the  last  of  which  it  is  freed  by  animal  charcoal ; ammonia 
then  precipitates  the  nearly  pure  alkaloid.  The  decoloration  of  the  morphine  salt  by 
means  of  animal  charcoal  is  more  readily  effected  when  in  aqueous  solution,  as  here 
directed,  than  when  dissolved  in  alcohol. 

Lime  has  an  action  upon  morphine  and  narcotine  similar  to  that  of  potassa.  Couerbe 
has  founded  upon  this  behavior  a method  for  preparing  morphine  which  was  somewhat 
modified  by  Mohr  (1840),  who  directs  4 parts  of  opuim  to  be  exhausted  by  repeated  boil- 
ing with  water ; the  strained  and  expressed  decoction  is  gradually  added  to  boiling  milk 
of  lime,  made  of  1 part  of  burned  lime  and  8 parts  of  water ; and  after  boiling  for  a few 
minutes  the  mixture  is  strained,  pressed,  and  the  undissolved  portion  twice  boiled  with 
a fresh  portion  of  water.  The  liquid,  containing  mainly  morphine,  lime,  and  coloring 
matter,  is  concentrated  to  8 parts,  filtered,  and  the  filtrate,  while  boiling,  mixed  with  suf- 
ficient powdered  sal  ammoniac  to  convert  all  the  lime  into  calcium  chloride,  while  ammo- 
nia is  given  off,  and  the  morphine  on  cooling  separated  as  a granular  mass ; this  is  washed 
with  cold  water,  dissolved  in  hydrochloric  acid,  purified  with  animal  charcoal,  and  crys- 
tallized as  morphine  hydrochlorate,  or  the  alkaloid  precipitated  by  ammonia.  The  mor- 
phine precipitated  from  the  lime  solution  is  darker  in  color  than  the  first  morphine  precip- 
itate obtained  by  Staples’  process,  but  much  lighter  than  the  corresponding  precipitate 
by  Gregory’s  process. 

Properties. — Morphine  crystallizes  in  short,  transparent,  and  colorless  or  white  prisms 
or  needles,  which  require  for  solution  4350  parts  of  water  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  and  455 
parts  at  100°  C.  (212  F.).  Chastaing  (1882)  ascertained  that  1 liter  of  water  dissolves 
at  10°  C.  (50°  F.)  0.1  Gm.,  at  20°  C.  (68°  F.)  0.2  Gm,  at  30°  C.  (86°  F.)  0.3  Gm.,and 
at  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  2.17  Gm.,  of  morphine.  At  or  near  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  the  alkaloid 
is  stated  to  be  soluble  in  300  parts  ( U.  S.),  90  parts  (Merck),  42  parts  (Choulant)  of 
alcohol,  and  at  the  boiling  temperature  in  36  parts  (£7.  $.,  Choulant),  24  parts,  of  alco- 
hol (Bucholz).  It  is  also  soluble  in  4000  parts  of  ether.  Duflos  found  it  soluble  in  20 
parts  of  cold  and  13.3  parts  of  boiling  absolute  alcohol ; Pefetenkofer,  in  40  and  30  parts 
respectively.  Prof.  Prescott  (1875)  determined  morphine  to  be  soluble  in  the  following 
quantities  of  hot  liquids  : in  6146  parts  of  ether  sp.  gr.  0.729,  in  4379  parts  of  chloro- 
form sp.  gr.  1.4953,  in  8930  parts  of  benzene  sp.  gr.  0.8766,  and  in  91  parts  of  amylic 
alcohol  sp.  gr.  0.8136;  all  except  the  last  liquid  dissolved  from  four  to  five  times  more 
of  the  nascent  alkaloid.  Chloroform  containing  7 per  cent,  of  alcohol  dissolves  of 
morphine  (Vander  Burg,  1879).  Reveil  (1863)  found  morphine  to  be  soluble  in  220 


MORPHINA. 


1051 


parts  vjf  glycerin.  It  is  soluble  in  400  parts  of  cold  amylic  alcohol  and  500  parts  of 
acetic  ether,  in  fixed  alkalies  and  alkaline  earths,  less  so  in  ammonia  (117  parts),  and 
still  less  in  ammoniacal  salts,  but  nearly  insoluble  in  fixed  oils.  The  alkaloid  is  not 
altered  by  exposure  to  air,  and  is  inodorous,  and  at  first  tasteless,  developing,  however, 
a bitter  taste.  Its  solutions  have  an  alkaline  reaction  upon  test-paper,  and  with  acids 
it  yields  salts,  most  of  which  are  crystallizable.  Heated  to  about  75°  C.  (167°  F.)  it 
begins  to  lose  its  water  of  crystallization,  and  becomes  anhydrous  when  heated  for  some 
time  to  200°  C.  (212°  F.).  At  254°  C.  (489°  F.)  it  melts,  forming  a black  liquid,  and 
on  ignition  is  completely  dissipated. 

Reactions. — Commercial  concentrated  sulphuric  acid  dissolves  morphine  with  a yel- 
lowish afterward  gray  color.  Mixed  with  six  or  eight  times  its  weight  of  sugar,  mor- 
phine acquires  with  sulphuric  acid  a bright  purple-red  color,  gradually  changing  to 
violet-blue,  blue-green,  and  dingy-yellow  (Schneider,  1872).  The  delicacy  of  this  test 
is  increased  by  the  addition  of  a little  bromine-water,  so  that  .00001  Gm.  of  morphine 
will  still  show  a rose-red  color  (Weppen,  1874).  Dissolved  in  sulphuric  acid  and  the 
solution  heated  to  near  150°  C.  (302°  F.),  the  addition  of  a little  nitric  acid  colors  violet- 
blue,  changing  quickly  to  blood-red,  and  afterward  to  deep  orange  (Husemann,  1863). 
Frohde's  reagent  (1866)  (0.001  to  0.005  sodium  molybdate  in  1 Cc.  H2S04)  acquires  a 
beautiful  violet  color,  changing  to  blue,  olive-green,  yellow,  and  in  twenty-fonr  hours  to 
purplish-blue.  In  the  reaction  of  this  reagent  upon  many  alkaloids  and  other  organic 
substances  a light-  or  dark-blue  or  more  or  less  green  color  is  produced ; the  changes  in 
color  must,  therefore,  be  noticed,  and  a larger  amount  of  the  molybdate  in  the  test  care- 
fully avoided.  (See  papers  by  Buckingham,  Wellcome,  and  Prescott  in  Amer.  Jour. 
Phar .,  1873,  p.  150;  1876,  pp.  21,  59.)  Morphine  decomposes  iodic  (Serullus)  and  peri- 
odic (Boedeker)  acids,  liberating  iodine;  in  dilute  solutions  the  addition  of  sulphuric 
acid  is  advisable  ; ammonia  deepens  the  yellow  color  of  the  solution.  Solutions  of  silver 
nitrate,  gold  chloride,  potassium  ferricyanide,  cuprammonium,  and  chromic  acid  are 
reduced  by  morphine  and  its  salts.  Pellagri  (1877)  recommended  a test  which  depends 
upon  the  production  of  apomorphine  (see  page  234),  and  is  applied  as  follows  : The  sus- 
pected substance  is  dissolved  in  concentrated  hydrochloric  acid,  a little  sulphuric  acid  is 
added,  and  the  solution  evaporated  at  100°  C.  ; a purple  color  will  be  produced.  To  the 
residue  is  added  a little  hydrochloric  acid, .then  sodium  bicarbonate,  and  finally  a strong 
solution  of  iodine  in  hydriodic  acid,  when  a green  compound  is  produced,  dissolving  in 
ether  with  a purple  color. 

The  salts  of  morphine  are  precipitated  from  their  solutions  by  the  alkalies  and  alkaline 
earths,  the  precipitates  being  soluble  in  an  excess  of  the  precipitant.  Similar  precipitates 
are  produced  by  the  alkali  carbonates  and  cyanides,  but  the  alkali  bicarbonates  fail 
to  precipitate  acid  solutions  in  the  cold.  Tannin  causes  a white  precipitate  soluble  in 
acetic  acid,  in  mineral  acids,  and  in  alcohol.  Auric  or  platinic,  but  not  mercuric,  chloride 
occasions  a yellow  precipitate.  Codeine  causes  a precipitate  of  morphine  in  the  solution 
of  the  salts.  The  acidulated  solutions  of  morphine  are  precipitated  by  potassio-mercuric 
iodide,  potassio-cadmium  iodide,  and  other  general  reagents  for  alkaloids  ; the  precipitate 
with  phosphomolybdic  acid  turns  blue  with  cold  sulphuric  acid  and  brown  on  warming. 
1 Cc.  of  Mayer’s  test-solution  precipitates  0.020  Gm.  morphine.  When  a salt  of  mor- 
phine is  heated  with  an  excess  of  sulphuric  or  hydrochloric  acid  to  near  150°  C.  (302° 
F.),  the  alkaloid  parts  with  II., O and  is  converted  into  apomorphine,  CJ7H17N02  (see  page 
234). 

Beckett  and  Wright  (1875)  ascertained  that  morphine  treated  with  acetic,  benzoic,  or 
butyric  anhydride  is  converted  into  derivatives  containing  acetyl,  benzoyl,  or  butyryl  in 
the  place  of  1 or  2H.  Hesse  (1883)  obtained  similar  compounds  with  propionic  anhy- 
dride at  85°  C.  (185°  F.).  Diacetyl-morphine  and  the  analogous  derivatives  are  not  col- 
ored by  ferric  chloride,  and  are  decomposed  into  morphine  and  the  corresponding  acids  on 
being  warmed  with  alcoholic  solution  of  potassa. 

Tests. — When  heated  upon  platinum-foil,  no  fixed  residue  should  be  left  (lime,  mag- 
nesia, etc.).  “ When  crystals  of  morphine  are  sprinkled  upon  nitric  acid  (specific  gravity 
1.250  to  1.300),  they  will  assume  an  orange-red  color,  and  then  produce  a reddish  solu- 
tion gradually  changing  to  yellow.  On  shaking  a small  portion  of  morphine,  in  a test- 
tube,  with  10  Cc.  of  chlorine-water,  the  latter  will  acquire  a yellowish  color.  On  now 
carefully  pouring  a small  amount  of  ammonia-water  on  the  surface  of  the  liquid,  a brown 
or  reddish-brown  zone  will  develop  at  the  line  of  contact  of  the  two  liquids.  Addition  of 
a few  drops  of  solution  of  ferric  chloride  to  a 1 per  cent,  solution  of  morphine  prepared 
by  the  aid  of  dilute  sulphuric  acid  but  carefully  neutralized,  produces  a blue  color  which 


1052 


MORPHINA. 


is  destroyed  by  acids,  alcohol,  or  heating  (but  not  by  alkalies).  On  treating  morphine 
with  cold,  concentrated  sulphuric  acid  free  from  nitric  acid,  the  liquid  should  not  at  once 
acquire  more  than  a faintly  yellowish  tinge  [when  heated  to  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  for  half 
an  hour  a pink-red  color  is  developed  (Prescott)]  (absence  of  more  than  traces  of  narco- 
tine, papaverine,  etc.),  nor  should  a purple  or  violet,  but  merely  a greenish  color  be  pro- 
duced by  the  subsequent  addition  of  a small  crystal  of  potassium  permanganate  (difference 
from  strychnine).  On  precipitating  a solution  of  any  of  the  salts  of  morphine  by  ammo- 
nia-water, dissolving  the  washed  precipitate  in  solution  of  sodium  hydroxide,  and  shaking 
the  solution  with  an  equal  volume  of  ether,  upon  evaporation  of  the  ethereal  solution,  no 
appreciable  residue  should  remain  (absence  of  narcotine,  codeine,  etc.).  On  adding  4 Cc. 
of  solution  of  potassium  or  sodium  hydroxide  to  0.2  Gm.  of  morphine,  a clear,  colorless, 
solution  should  result,  free  from  any  undissolved  residue  (absence  of  and  difference  from 
various  other  alkaloids).  ” — U.  S. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — The  alkaloid  is  used  in  preparing  morphine  salts. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  general  effects  of  morphine  on  the  system  are  almost 
identical  with  those  of  opium,  but  there  are  some  points  of  difference  which  call  for 
notice,  and  some  peculiarities  depending  upon  the  manner  in  which  morphine  is 
administered.  It  does  not  appear  to  stimulate  the  nervous  system  or  the  circulation  as 
much  as  opium,  nor  display  so  decided  a narcotic  influence.  It  has  been  remarked 
that  although  2 or  even  3 grains  of  opium  certainly  contain  less  than  a grain  of  mor- 
phine, yet  their  action  is  more  intense,  rapidly  occasioning  a degree  of  narcotism  bor- 
dering upon  coma,  but  soon  subsiding  without  leaving  decided  secondary  effects  behind  ; 
while  morphine  does  not  so  readily  produce  narcotism,  but  its  after-effects  are  of  longer 
duration.  Opium  also  increases  the  temperature  as  well  as  the  sense  of  heat,  but  mor- 
phine, while  agreeing  in  the  latter  effect,  lowers  the  temperature.  So,  too,  opium  pri- 
marily increases  the  frequency  of  the  pulse,  but  morphine  diminishes  it.  Opium  is  less 
apt  to  excite  nausea  and  vomiting  than  morphine.  Of  this  operation  it  has  been 
remarked  that  women  are  much  more  liable  to  it  than  men,  and  especially  to  vomiting. 
When  morphine  is  used  hypodermically,  such  effects  usually  take  place  immediately,  but 
when  given  by  the  stomach  they  may  not  appear  for  several  days.  A corresponding 
contrast  is  presented  by  its  action  on  the  bowels : by  the  hypodermic  method  morphine 
continues  to  constipate,  but  by  the  mouth  it  tends  to  occasion  diarrhoea  after  a few  days. 
Under  like  circumstances  opium  does  not  cause  looseness  of  the  bowels,  but  ceases  to 
confine  them.  Contrary  to  the  general  opinion,  morphine  does  not,  according  to  Ruther- 
ford’s experiments,  affect  the  secretion  of  bile  ; and  equally  opposed  to  professional  belief 
is  the  statement  of  Filhene  and  Pinzani  that  doses  of  morphine  varying  from  Gm.  0.01- 
0.02  (i  to  ^ of  a grain)  may  be  given  to  a nursing  mother  without  injury  to  the  child 
( Therap.  Gaz .,  xii.  460  ; Centralbl.  f.  Ther.,  viii.  569).  The  experiments  of  Filhene 
(Archiv  f Pathol,  u.  Pharmakol .,  xi.  60)  led  him  to  a conclusion  in  harmony  with 
general  clinical  experience — viz.  that  when  respiration  is  interfered  with  by  anaemia  of 
the  medulla  oblongata,  without  previous  pulmonary  obstruction,  the  use  of  morphine 
in  doses  capable  of  restoring  the  act  of  respiration  to  its  normal  type  is  thoroughly 
indicated.  But  when,  on  the  other  hand,  an  obstacle  to  the  arterialization  of  the  blood 
exists  in  the  lungs  themselves,  morphine  must  be  circumspectly  used.  Berkart,  in  like 
manner,  teaches  that  when  the  pulmonary  obstruction  originates  in  the  heart  itself,  it  may 
often  be  overcome  by  stimulation  of  the  heart;  and  no  better  agent  can  be  resorted  to 
for  that  purpose  than  morphine  in  small  doses,  administered  hypodermically.  Morphine 
is  very  apt  to  occasion  ardor  urinrn,  with  vesical  irritation  and  diminished  secretion  of 
urine.  The  last  symptoms  may  be  accounted  for,  in  part,  by  the  profuse  sweating  that 
often  follows  the  administration  of  morphine  in  full  doses.  It  is  said  to  be  more  marked 
in  females  than  in  males.  A portion  of  the  morphine  may  be  recovered  from  the  urine 
( Asclepiad , 1885)  where  the  quantity  consumed  is  not  very  large ; but  the  failure  to 
detect  it  does  not  prove  that  morphine  was  not  used.  Although  itching  of  the  skin 
sometimes  attends  the  action  of  opium,  it  is  usually  insignificant  compared  with  that 
which  morphine  frequently  causes.  It  generally  begins  in  the  eyes  and  nose,  and  often 
extends  to  the  whole  surface  of  the  body,  causing  great  restlessness  and  distress.  Along 
with  this  symptom,  or  independently  of  it,  various  fugitive  eruptions  appear  of  a papu- 
lar or  erythematous  description,  and  especially  urticaria.  They  probably  depend  upon 
the  same  immediate  cause  that  provokes  diaphoresis,  and  they  have  been  oftener  noticed 
after  the  hypodermic  use  of  morphine  than  otherwise.  Among  many  instances  the  fol- 
lowing may  be  cited  in  illustration  : In  a case  of  sciatica  Comanos  used  a hypodermic 
injection  of  Gm.  0.02  (£  grain)  of  morphine.  The  next  day  the  whole  skin  was  covered 


MORPHINA. 


1053 


with  a scarlet  rash,  the  temperature  was  102°  F.,  and  at  the  end  of  four  days  desqua- 
mation took  place.  Some  time  afterward  the  same  dose  was  given  by  the  mouth,  and 
produced  a similar  febrile  eruption  ; and  later  an  ointment  containing  morphine  was 
rubbed  into  the  skin  over  the  painful  nerve,  and  after  several  days  an  eruption  broke 
out  as  before,  and  then  a large  carbuncle  formed  ( Berlin . Min.  Wochensch .,  No.  42, 
18S2).  Other  abnormal  effects  may  be  met  with  : for  instance,  A hypodermic  injec- 
tion of  T9^  of  a grain  of  morphine  caused  a prolonged  and  deep  sleep,  followed  by  con- 
vulsive movements,  cyanosis,  dry  tongue,  dyspnoea,  tracheal  rales,  incontinence  of  urine 
and  fseces,  lowered'  temperature,  and,  after  these  phenomena  ceased,  with  aphasia,  agra- 
phia, and  mental  irritability  (Scheiber,  Zeitsch.  f.  Min.  Med .,  xiv.  39).  As  with  all  nar- 
cotics, so  with  morphine : if  it  is  left'  off  abruptly,  wakefulness  and  restlessness,  with 
nervous  depression,  are  apt  to  ensue.  These  effects  sometimes  closely  resemble  delirium 
tremens.  The  fatal  dose  of  morphine  cannot  be  determined ; it  may  not  exceeed  a sin- 
gle grain,  and,  on  the  other  hand,  a case  is  recorded  in  which  7 grains  of  morphine  were 
taken  in  the  form  of  Magendie’s  solution,  and  yet  by  dint  of  powerful  excitation,  chiefly 
electrical,  the  patient  recovered  (Schweig).  An  infant  fourteen  days  old  recovered  after 
taking  i grain  of  morphine,  and  another  three  weeks  old  after  taking  a teaspoonful  of 
wine  of  opium  ( Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  July,  1880,  p.  57).  In  another  case  it  is 
said  that  10  grains  were  taken,  but  the  patient  recovered  after  the  hypodermic  injection 
of  atropine  (Med.  News , xli.  592).  Still  more  remarkable  are  the  cases  of  a woman  who 
recovered  after  taking  25  grains  ( Therap . Gaz .,  xiii.  93)  ; of  a man  who  also  recovered 
after  taking  about  36  grains  ( Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  May,  1887,  p.  443)  ; and  of 
a woman  who  also  survived  a dose  of  51  grains  (ibid.,  June,  1887,  p.  603).  On  the 
other  hand,  two  cases  are  recorded  of  sudden  death  after  the  subcutaneous  injection  of 
Gm.  0.005  (y1^  gr.)  (Therap.  Monatsh.,  iii.  436). 

The  influence  of  morphine  used  habitually  is  most  pernicious.  Even  in  dogs,  after  a 
time  emaciation  sets  in  and  ultimately  reaches  an  extreme  degree ; the  animal  is  habit- 
ually torpid,  the  skin  of  the  feet  grows  morbidly  sensitive,  and  the  temperature  is  very 
low.  After  death  the  brain  and  spinal  marrow  are  anaemic  and  the  lungs  and  liver  engorged. 
In  man  the  disturbances  are  similar,  but  those  of  the  intellectual  sphere  predominate. 
They  include  nervousness,  tremor,  hyperaesthesia,  spasms,  neuralgia,  insomnia,  anxiety, 
hypochondria  alternating  with  excitement,  hallucinations,  and  a suicidal  tendency.  A devotee 
to  the  hypodermic  use  of  morphine  thus  described  to  us  its  occasional  effects  : “ My  head 
and  buttocks  begin  to  throb  and  bump  like  trip-hammers ; my  teeth  are  set ; a metallic 
taste  is  in  my  mouth  ; my  face,  neck,  hands  and  arms  are  as  red  as  fire,  and  all  the  veins 
stand  out  swollen.  The  worst  is  the  awful  throbbing  pain  in  my  head.  It  is  terrible.” 
Among  the  physical  symptoms  are  dryness  of  the  tongue,  constipation,  and  scanty  urine, 
with  vesical  irritation,  and  occasionally  albuminous  urine.  Sometimes  excessive  sweats 
occur ; the  respiratory  passages  and  throat  are  dry  ; impotence  is  usual.  Caries  of  the 
teeth  has  also  been  observed,  and  suspension  of  the  catamenia  is  an  ordinary  occurrence. 
The  morphine  habit  also  blunts  the  perception  of  duty,  gratitude,  and  even  delicacy,  and 
perverts  the  sense  of  truth.  No  doubt  these  effects  are  due  in  part  to  the  efforts  made 
by  its  slave  to  conceal  his  illicit  indulgence  or  the  degree  of  it,  but  they  are  chiefly 
attributable  to  the  obtuseness  which  it  creates  in  the  moral  faculties  as  well  as  the  senses. 
If  the  drug  is  abruptly  withdrawn,  the  patients  suffer  a collapse,  with  indescribable  dis- 
tress from  nervousness  and  loss  of  self-control,  profuse  sweats,  or  diarrhoea,  and  a dusky 
discoloration  of  the  face.  The  tolerance  of  morphine  in  some  cases  of  its  habitual  use 
is  extremely  remarkable,  as  the  following  summary  will  prove : A man  gradually 
increased  his  daily  dose  until  at  the  end  of  two  years  it  reached  40  grains  (Siredey).  A 
woman  who  used  morphine  hypodermically  at  last  took  14  grains  every  day.  Except 
habitual  lassitude  of  mind  and  body  no  bad  effect  of  any  kind  was  produced  (Braith- 
waite).  But  the  most  singular  instance  of  this  nature  is  one  reported  by  Dr.  Lyman  of 
Boston  : A woman  forty-seven  years  of  age  had  been  addicted  to  the  morphine  habit 
since  the  age  of  eighteen.  She  was  in  good  flesh,  though  a small  eater  and  with  an 
indifferent  appetite ; she  experienced  no  disorder  of  the  heart  or  kidneys,  her  bowels 
were  moved  by  the  help  of  injections,  and  her  catamenia  were  always  regular.  Yet 
throughout  this  long  period  of  twenty-eight  or  twenty-nine  years  her  daily  dose  of  mor- 
phine averaged  about  16  grains.  A woman  aged  sixty-six  years  often  had  three  hypo- 
dermic injections  daily,  each  of  6 grains  of  morphine  (Practitioner,  xxv.  66).  Another 
habitually  took  this  amount  internally,  and  occasionally  doubled  it.  During  one  period 
of  three  years  she  took  a drachm  of  morphine  daily,  and  on  several  days  80  grains  (Boston 
Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  Feb.  1882,  p.  128).  A lady  addicted  to  the  habit  would  take  hypo- 


1054 


MORPH  IN  A. 


dermically  25  grains  of  morphine  at  a single  sitting  (New  York  Med.  Jour.,  Mar.  29, 
1884).  A man  during  seventeen  years  used  on  an  average  24  grains  of  morphine  daily 
( Lancet , Dec.  29,  1883).  Burkart  gives  as  the  maximum  daily  dose  Gm.  3.5  (50  grains). 
In  some  persons  almost  every  hypodermic  injection  is  followed  by  an  abscess.  We  are 
familiar  with  the  case  of  a lady  who  for  several  years  was  subject  to  violent  attacks  of 
neuralgia  of  the  face  and  head,  for  which  she  was  treated  by  hypodermic  injections  of 
morphine.  Almost  all  the  punctures  were  followed  by  abscesses,  and  both  of  her  arms 
from  the  shoulders  almost  to  the  wrists  are  deformed  by  the  scars  they  left  behind  them. 
According  to  Obersteiner,  about  74  per  cent,  of  the  victims  of  the  morphine  habit  are 
males,  and  of  these  nearly  47  per  cent,  are  medical  men. 

Many  cases  occur  in  which  idiosyncrasies  modify  the  usual  effects  of  morphine.  In 
some  it  causes  violent  mental  excitement,  hallucinations,  and  a total  inability  to  sleep; 
in  others  it  occasions  nervous  depression,  syncope,  pallor  of  the  skin,  feebleness  of  the 
pulse,  dyspnoea,  insensibility,  urgent  vomiting,  etc. ; in  others,  again,  spasmodic  move- 
ments or  a fully-formed  tetanoid  paroxysm  ( British  Med.  Jour.,  Oct.  18,  1879).  No 
doubt  some  of  the  most  alarming  examples  of  this  nature  have  followed  the  hypodermic 
injection  of  morphine,  either  because  of  the  swift  absorption  of  the  narcotic  or  from  its 
having  been  thrown  into  a vein.  Hence  the  wisdom  of  the  rule  to  introduce  morphine 
hypodermically  with  great  deliberation,  and  of  the  advice  that  has  been  given  to  associate 
with  each  injection  grain  of  atropine  to  counteract  the  depressing  and  nauseating 
effects  of  the  morphine.  This  dose  should  never  be  repeated  while  the  effects  of  a 
previous  dose  appear  to  be  increasing.  In  all  cases  the  condition  of  the  pulse  and  the 
heart  should  be  considered.  Not  a few  examples  are  recorded  of  death  by  syncope 
immediately  after  the  administration  of  morphine  hypodermically,  and  many  also  in  which 
death  seemed  imminent.  In  one  case,  among  others,  a case  of  lumbago,  this  effect 
resulted  from  the  hypodermic  injection  of  i grain  of  morphine  at  a spot  midway  between 
the  spine  and  the  crest  of  the  ilium.  In  about  ten  minutes  collapse  with  syncope  occurred, 
and  the  patient  was  with  difficulty  saved  ( Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  Oct.  1879,  p. 
619).  A case  is  on  record  in  which  fatal  narcotism  followed  the  hypodermic  use  of  gr.  \ 
(Med.  News , xlvi.  18),  but  the  circumstances  make  the  cause  of  death  doubtful.  In 
several  instances  of  angina  pectoris  death  has  seemed  to  be  the  consequence  of  morphine 
injections  (Centralbl.  f.  d.  g.  Therap.,  iii.  71).  It  is  stated  under  Opium  that  all  prepara- 
tions of  that  narcotic  are  peculiarly  dangerous  in  very  early  or  in  advanced  life.  The 
use  of  morphine  hypodermically  is  even  more  so  because  it  cannot  be  removed  from  the 
system  as  an  overdose  of  opium  may  be.  One-sixth,  and  even  one-eighth,  of  a grain  so 
administered  has  proved  fatal  to  old  and  feeble  patients,  and  even  without  producing 
narcotic  symptoms  until  a repetition  of  the  dose  has  suddenly  developed  them  (Boston 
Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  May,  1884,  p.  427).  The  administration  of  chloroform  to  a person 
under  the  full  influence  of  morphine  is  peculiarly  dangerous.  Even  ether  should  be 
cautiously  employed,  especially  if  severe  pain  is  suffered  (Med.  Record,  xxii.  274).  The 
immediate  and  remote  effects  of  the  hypodermic  use  of  morphine  and  of  the  “ morphine 
habit  ” have  been  fully  depicted  by  numerous  writers.  To  their  works  the  reader  is 
referred  (Burkart,  Die  chron.  Morphium  Vergiftung , 1877-78  ; Petit,  Bull,  de  Tlierap., 
vol.  xcvi. ; Levinstein,  Die  Morphiumsucht,  1880  ; Obersteiner,  Med.  News  and  Abst., 
July,  1880,  438,  Wiener  Klinik,  M'arz,  1883;  Kane,  Morphia  Hypodermically,  1880; 
Burkart,  Die  Wesen,  etc.  der  chronischen  Morphiumvergiftung,  1884). 

Although  morphine  may,  in  general  terms,  be  used  for  the  same  purposes  as  opium, 
which  are  fully  treated  of  elsewhere  (see  Opium),  and  especially  as  an  internal  medicine, 
it  is  true,  nevertheless,  that  the  introduction  of  the  hypodermic  method  of  employing  it 
has  shown  its  fitness  for  certain  special  conditions.  This  method  is  superior  to  any  other 
when  the  prompt  action  of  the  medicine  is  necessary  to  save  life  or  lessen  pain,  wh*en 
the  patient  is  unable  or  unwilling  to  swallow,  and  when  a local  rather  than  a general 
influence  is  sought.  The  use  of  morphine,  and  especially  its  hypodermic  use,  in  the 
treatment  of  insanity,  while  it  is  unquestionally  preferable  to  allowing  the  insane  to 
become  exhausted  by  excessive  mental  and  physical  exertion,  is  just  as  certainly  abused 
to  save  trouble  for  physicians  and  attendants.  Very  often  the  disease,  whether  it  have 
a physical  basis  or  not,  is  fostered  and  prolonged  by  this  method,  which  is  really  but 
little  better  than  the  strait-jacket,  the  tranquillizing-chair,  and  other  instruments  of 
torture  now  seldom  used  in  asylums  managed  by  a sound  intelligence.  Hardly  less 
mournful  is  it  to  know  that  in  these  institutions  the  baleful  habit  of  morphine-intoxica- 
tion has  often  been  formed.  Undoubtedly,  a wise  and  prudent  use  of  this  remedy  is 
most  advantageous,  especially  in  cases  of  transient  or  of  periodical  mania,  or  when  it 


MORPH  IN  A. 


1055 


is  attended  by  severe  bodily  pain,  provided  that  the  administration  be  absolutely  con- 
trolled by  a responsible  physician  and  not  trusted  to  inexperienced  assistants  or  ignorant 
or  unfaithful  nurses.  (Compare  Voisin,  Bull,  de  Therap.,  c.  385,  443.)  In  sunstroke 
attended  with  convulsions,  jactitation,  delirium,  and  general  excitement  the  hypodermic 
injection  of  a salt  of  morphine,  in  the  dose  of  1 grain,  affords  prompt  relief.  Infantile 
convulsions  have  been  successfully  treated  by  means  of  hypodermic  morphine,  but  the 
dose  of  it  should  not  exceed  gr.  In  epileptiform  convulsions  due  to  mental  excite- 
ment, in  pregnancy  and  One  puerperal  state , in  hysteria  and  aggravated  chorea , in  various 
local  spasms , as  of  the  face,  glottis,  diaphragm,  etc.,  this  remedy  should  always  be  borne 
in  mind.  Morphine  hypodermically  employed  is  perhaps  the  best  remedy  in  tetanus , even 
of  the  traumatic  form,  and  a like  statement  is  true  of  the  analogous  condition  caused  by 
strychnine-poisoning.  It  is  the  proper  antidote  in  poisoning  by  belladonna  or  atropine. 
Of  all  the  remedies  for  spasmodic  asthma , this  one  procures  incomparably  the  most  speedy 
relief.  Nor  is  it  only  in  spasmodic  dyspnoea  that  the  treatment  is  efficient.  Huchard, 
among  others,  contends  that,  with  rare  exceptions,  this  symptom  is  by  itself  an  indication 
for  the  use  of  hypodermic  injections  of  morphine  (Bull,  de  Therap .,  xcvi.  477).  Attacks 
of  dyspnoea  due  to  mitral  obstruction  are  less  amenable  to  this  medicine  than  any  other, 
whether  cardiac,  pulmonary,  or  nervous  (ibid.,  c.  173).  Morphine  may  be  sometimes 
used  to  lessen  the  violence  of  the  paroxysms  in  whooping  cough.  The  pain  of  neuralgia , 
especially  in  its  severe  forms,  such  as  affect  the  fifth  nerve,  the  sciatic,  and  the  gastric 
nerves,  is  promptly  palliated  by  it.  In  neuralgia  of  the  superficial  nerves  rapid  vesica- 
tion of  the  skin  over  the  painful  points,  and  the  application  to  the  cutis  of  a strong  solu- 
tion or  ointment  containing  a morphine  salt,  may  also  be  employed,  but  its  effect  is  less 
prompt  and  sure  than  the  hypodermic  plan.  Of  all  palliatives  employed  in  that  most 
terrible  of  pains,  angina  pectoris , none  (except  perhaps  nitrite  of  amyl)  affords  more 
prompt  and  sure  relief,  not  only  subduing  the  neuralgic  anguish,  but  calming  the 
tumultuous  and  disordered  movements  of  the  heart.  It  has  the  advantage  over  some 
other  methods  of  being  almost  free  from  danger,  so  long  as  the  dose  of  the  palliative 
does  not  become  narcotic.  In  that  case  all  opium  preparations  embarrass  a weakened  or 
obstructed  heart.  One  of  the  best  occasional  remedies  for  nervous  headache  which 
females  are  apt  to  experience  during  the  menstrual  periods  is  a cup  of  strong  coffee  with 
4 grain  of  morphine  salt,  but  it  is  a remedy  which  is  not  to  be  recommended  for  general 
or  frequent  use.  The  hypodermic  injection  of  morphine  is  the  promptest  of  all  pallia- 
tives for  muscular  rheumatism , and  especially  for  lumbago.  In  the  various  forms  of 
abdominal  pain  hypodermic  injections  of  morphine  afford  prompt  and  sure  relief,  whether 
the  cause  of  it  be  colic  due  to  indigestion  with  flatulence,  to  cholera  morbus,  to  obstipa- 
tion, to  intestinal  displacements,  to  lead-poisoning,  or  even  to  inflammatory  conditions : 
to  biliary  or  renal  or  vesical  calculi , etc.  Of  all  the  methods  of  using  opiates  in 
epidemic  cholera , this  is  the  least  disappointing ; but  although  it  is  of  little  value  when 
once  collapse  has  set  in,  it  is  probably  more  useful  than  the  internal  administration  of 
morphine.  In  some  cases  the  hypodermic  use  of  morphine  has  been  signally  successful 
in  curing  sea-sickness  (Pietra-Santa,  Bull,  de  Therap.,  cv.  47 2 ; Vincent,  Therap.  Gaz., 
viii.  479).  It  is  important  to  note  that  the  established  value  of  opiates  in  diabetes 
depends  upon  their  administration  by  the  mouth.  They  seem  not  to  lessen  the  sugar  in 
the  urine  when  given  hypodermically  (Bruce,  Practitioner , xxxviii.  20).  Fraser  found 
it  generally  superior  to  codeine  in  this  disease  (ibid.,  xlii.  374).  The  use  of  morphine  as 
an  antidote  to  poisoning  by  Belladonna,  Atropine,  and  Piiysostigmine  is  considered 
under  these  several  titles.  It  may,  however,  be  mentioned  in  this  place  that  the  antago- 
nism in  question  may  sometimes  be  usefully  employed  to  meet  special  indications.  Thus, 
morphine,  which  is  so  essential  to  moderate  cough  in  phthisis,  and  which  is  at  the  same 
time  contraindicated  by  its  tendency  to  produce  sweating,  may,  if  associated  with  a minute 
proportion  of  atropine,  fulfil  its  important  object  without  inducing  profuse  diaphoresis. 
In  like  manner,  the  depressing  influence  of  morphine,  which  renders  it  dangerous  in 
certain  cases  of  extreme  exhaustion  accompanied  with  severe  pain,  may  be  counteracted 
by  giving  atropine  along  with  it  (Fothergill). 

The  hypodermic  use  of  morphine  has  been  greatly  perverted  ; the  prompt  alleviation 
of  pain  and  the  pleasing  intoxication  which  follows  form  too  strong  a temptation  to  its 
use  for  all  persons  to  resist  successfully.  Like  alcohol,  it  leaves  behind  it  a sense  of 
debility  and  depression  which  nothing  but  a fresh  resort  to  the  medicine  relieves.  If 
continuously  employed,  it  creates  an  artificial  necessity  for  resorting  to  its  powerful  and 
genial  support,  and  the  longer  it  is  used  the  larger  is  the  dose  of  it  required.  A peculiar 
allurement  of  the  habit  as  compared  with  that  of  taking  opiates  by  the  mouth  is  that  in 


1056 


MORPHINJE  ACETAS. 


many  cases  it  does  not  so  readily  derange  the  stomach,  impair  the  appetite,  or  produce 
constipation.  These  effects  should  be  borne  in  mind,  but  it  is  equally  important  to 
remember  that  in  cases  of  hopeless  disease  the  duty  of  the  physician  is,  above  every- 
thing else,  to  relieve  his  patient’s  suffering. 

The  treatment  of  the  morphine  habit  cannot  be  fully  discussed  here.  Suffice  it  to  say 
that  it  consists  essentially  in  the  withdrawal  of  the  drug — abruptly  if  the  constitutional 
symptoms  are  not  grave,  gradually  if  they  are  serious,  while  by  food,  passive  and  active 
exercise,  and  occupation  the  body  is  strengthened  and  the  mind  diverted.  (Compare 
Opium.)  Whatever  plan  may  be  adopted,  its  success  depends  mainly  upon  the  patient 
being  restrained  from  indulging  his  vicious  habit.  The  treatment  of  poisoning  by 
morphine  is  the  same  as  that  used  for  opium-poisoning. 

The  average  dose  of  morphine  or  of  its  salts  is  about  G-m.  0.013  (i  grain),  but  mor- 
phine uncombined  is  seldom  prescribed.  For  hypodermic  uses  an  officinal  solution  of 
acetate  of  morphine  has  been  provided  by  the  British  Pharmacopoeia.  (See  Injectio 
MoRPHiNiE  Hypodermica.)  It  is  said  that  if  the  morphine  solution  is  heated  in  a 
spoon  before  being  injected,  organic  growths  that  may  have  formed  in  it  will  be  destroyed, 
and  the  solution  will  then  become  less  irritating.  The  recommendation  that  the  phy- 
sician carry  with  him  powders  of  morphine  of  1 grain  and  dissolve  them  as  just 
suggested  when  required  for  use,  appears  to  be  judicious  and  practical.  The  so-called 
“sterilized”  solutions  of  the  salt  may  be  employed.  (See  Therap.  Gaz .,  x.  541.)  The 
tartrate  has  been  proposed  as  superior  to  any  other  salt  of  morphine  for  hypodermic 
injections.  It  is  said  to  be  entirely  bland  and  unirritating,  and  that  its  solution  can  be 
kept  fresh  for  any  length  of  time  (Stuart). 

MORPHINiE  ACETAS,  77.  S.,  Br.— Morphine  Acetate. 

Morphine  acetas , Morphinum.  ( s . Morphium)  aceticum , Acetas  morphinae,  Acetas  mor- 
vhicus. — Acetate  of  morphia , E. ; Acetate  de  morphine , Fr. ; Morphinacetat , Essigsaures 
Morphin , Gr. 

Formula  CnHj9NO3.HO2H3O2.3H2O.  Molecular  weight  398.12. 

Preparation. — The  British  Pharmacopoeia,  not  recognizing  morphine  officially, 
directs  that  alkaloid  to  be  prepared  from  2 ounces  of  the  hydrochlorate  by  precipitating 
its  solution  with  ammonia  and  washing  the  precipitate  with  distilled  water  ; the  moist 
morphine  is  diffused  in  4 ounces  of  water,  dissolved  by  neutralizing  with  acetic  acid,  the 
solution  evaporated  on  a water-bath  until  it  concretes  on  cooling,  and  the  mass  dried  with 
a gentle  heat  and  reduced  to  powder.  The  salt  should  be  kept  in  small  well-stoppered 
vials.  A very  slight  excess  of  acetic  acid  is  rather  of  advantage,  since  the  salt  begins  to 
decompose  during  the  evaporation  by  the  liberation  of  a little  acid  ; it  is  therefore  advis- 
able to  facilitate  evaporation  at  a rather  low  temperature  by  means  of  a current  of  air. 
The  salt  may  be  crystallized  with  some  difficulty  in  the  form  of  white  silky  needles,  but  is 
very  generally  obtained  in  powder  as  directed  above. 

For  obtaining  the  salt  of  very  handsome  appearance  Hager  gives  the  following  direc- 
tions : Bub  10  parts  of  pure  morphine  to  powder,  keeping  it  moist  by  the  addition  of  a 
little  alcohol,  and  add  25  parts  of  glacial  acetic  acid,  triturating  constantly ; then  drop 
alcohol  into  the  mixture  until  it  has  become  of  a syrupy  consistence,  and  afterward  ether 
until  the  color  of  the  mixture  has  changed  to  milk-white  ; after  two  or  three  days  the 
solidified  mass  is  loosened  in  the  mortar  and  turned,  and  when  completely  dry  is  rubbed 
to  powder  and  preserved. 

Properties. — Morphine  acetate  forms  a white  or  faintly  yellowish,  crystalline  or 
amorphous  powder  which  has  a slight  acetous  odor  and  a very  bitter  taste.  Belohoubek 
(1880)  found  in  the  crystallized  salt  two  forms  of  needles — the  first  transparent  and  dis- 
tinct, the  other  white,  opaque,  and  aggregated  to  tufts.  When  freshly  prepared,  the 
salt  dissolves  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  in  25  parts  of  water  and  476  parts  of  alcohol  ( U.  S.  P.), 
in  45  parts  of  alcohol  (Hager),  and  at  the  boiling-point  requires  1.5  parts  of  water  and 
14  parts  of  alcohol  ( U.  S.  P),  2 parts  of  alcohol  (Hager).  The  salt  is  soluble  in  2.44 
parts  of  water  (Dott,  1881-82),  in  2100  of  cold  and  60  parts  of  boiling  chloroform,  and 
in  1700  parts  of  ether.  The  alcoholic  solution,  mixed  with  an  excess  of  ether,  deposits 
crystals  of  morphine,  free  acetic  acid  remaining  in  solution.  Cold  strong  sulphuric  acid 
dissolves  the  salt  without  color  only  when  recently  made.  When  kept  on  hand  it  slowly 
loses  acetic  acid  ; its  reaction  to  test-paper  changes  from  neutral  to  alkaline,  and  the  salt 
becomes  incompletely  soluble  in  water  unless  a little  acid  be  added ; it  gradually  acquires 
a yellowish-gray,  and  finally  brownish,  color,  and  should  then.be  redissolved  in  acetic  acid 


morphine:  hydrochloras.— morphinjs  sulphas. 


1057 


and  evaporated  or  converted  into  another  salt  of  morphine.  Its  aqueous  solution  under- 
goes similar  changes,  the  acetic  acid  being  slowly  decomposed,  with  the  separation  of 
brown  flocculent  compounds,  while  the  morphine  crystallizes  out,  forming  long  prisms  if 
the  solution  is  not  disturbed.  The  formula  given  by  the  Pharmacopoeia  is  that  of  Oude- 
manns  (1857),  and  requires  71.4  per  cent,  of  anhydrous  or  75.94  per  cent,  of  crystallized 
morphine.  Kieffer  (1857)  found  the  salt  to  contain  79.8  per  cent,  of  morphine. 

Tests. — The  salt  responds  to  the  morphine  tests  described  above,  and  leaves  no  resi- 
due when  ignited.  If  its  solution  is  precipitated  by  tannin,  the  addition  of  dilute  hydro- 
chloric acid  redissolves  the  precipitate  ; solution  of  potassa  or  soda  gives  a white  pre- 
cipitate soluble  in  excess  of  the  alkali ; a remaining  turbidity  would  indicate  the  presence 
of  narcotine.  Sulphuric  acid  added  to  the  salt  liberates  acetous  vapors. — U.  S. 

Uses. — The  action  and  uses  of  the  acetate  are  the  same  that  have  been  described  in 
the  article  on  Morphine.  The  dose  of  the  acetate  is  about  Gm.  0.01  (gr.  ^). 

MORPHINE  HYDROCHLORAS,  U.  S.,  Br.—  Morphine  Hydro- 
chlorate. 

Morphine  hydrochloras , Morphine  murias,  Morphinum  hydrochloricum,  P.  G. ; Murias 
( Hydrochloras ) morphicus. — Muriate  of  morphia , E.  ; Chlorhydra.te  de  morphine , Fr. ; 
Morphi.nhyd rochlorat , Salzsaures  Morphin , G. 

Formula  C17H19N03HC1.3H20.  Molecular  weight  374.64. 

Preparation. — The  British  Pharmacopoeia  has  a process  for  preparing  this  salt  from 
opium,  which  was  given  under  Morpiiina,  as  far  as  the  precipitation  of  pure  morphine. 
The  remaining  steps  are  as  follows : “ Diffuse  the  pure  morphine  (obtained  from  1 pound 
of  opium)  through  2 fluidounces  of  boiling  distilled  water  placed  in  a porcelain  capsule 
kept  hot,  and  add,  constantly  stirring,  the  diluted  hydrochloric  acid,  proceeding  with  cau- 
tion, so  that  the  morphine  may  be  entirely  dissolved  and  a neutral  solution  obtained.  Set 
aside  to  cool  aud  crystallize.  Drain  the  crystals,  and  dry  them  on  filtering-paper.  By 
further  evaporating  the  mother-liquor  and  again  cooling  additional  crystals  are  obtained.” 
If  pure  morphine  has  been  used  and  an  excess  of  hydrochloric  acid  avoided,  the  salt  may 
be  wholly  obtained  in  crystals  by  judicious  evaporation  of  the  mother-liquor.  On  account 
of  the  greater  stability  of  this  salt  and  of  its  solution,  the  German  Pharmacopoeia  directs 
it  to  be  dispensed  whenever  morphine  acetate  is  prescribed. 

Properties. — Morphine  hydrochlorate  crystallizes  in  white  silky,  flexible,  and 
inodorous  needles  or  minute,  colorless,  cubical  crystals  having  a bitter  taste  and  neutral 
reaction.  It  is  soluble  in  20  parts  of  cold  (24  parts  at  15°  C.  U.  S.  P. ; 25  parts  P.  G. ; 
23.9  parts,  Dott,  1882)  and  in  less  than  its  own  weight  (about  0.5  parts  U S.  P.)  of 
boiling  water;  in  62  parts  (48  parts,  Candidus,  1882)  of  alcohol  at  15°  C. ; and  in  30 
parts  of  boiling  alcohol ; in  50  parts  of  alcohol  sp.  gr.  0.832  (P.  G.)  ; in  19  parts  of 
glycerin  and  in  800  parts  of  olive  oil;  it  is  slightly  soluble  in  ether  or  chloroform. 
Heated  to  100°  C.  (212°  F.),  it  loses  14.38  per  cent,  of  water  of  crystallization  at  300° 
C.  (512°  F.)  it  coheres  slightly,  but  does  not  completely  melt.  It  yields  75.9  per  cent,  of 
anhydrous  and  80.7  per  cent,  of  crystallized  morphine.  On  triturating  the  salt  with  sul- 
phuric acid  and  sprinkling  bismuth  subnitrate  upon  the  mixture,  a dark-brown  color  is 
produced  ( P . G .). 

Tests. — The  salt  should  not  have  an  acid  reaction,  and  should  answer  to  all  the  mor- 
phine tests  described  before : its  aqueous  solution  yields  with  silver  nitrate  a white 
precipitate,  which  is  insoluble  in  nitric  acid,  but  dissolves  in  ammonia.  With  solution  of 
potassium  or  sodium  hydroxide  it  should  yield  a precipitate  soluble  in  excess  of  alkalies 
and  corresponding  to  the  tests  for  morphine.  When  heated  to  130°  C.  (266°  F.)  the 
pure  salt  remains  white,  while  the  commercial  salt  generally  turns  brown  or  black  from 
the  decomposition  of  resinous  substances  present  (Tauseh,  1880).  When  ignited,  the 
salt  should  leave  no  fixed  residue. 

Uses- — The  operation  of  the  hydrochlorate  of  morphine  is  identical  with  that  of  the 
acetate,  and  its  dose  is  the  same,  or  about  Gm.  0.01  (gr.  ^). 

MORPHIN iE  SULPHAS,  U.  Morphine  Sulphate. 

Morphine  sulphas  ; Morphinum  sulfuricum , P.  G. ; Sulfas  morphicus. — Sulphate  of  mor- 
phia, E. ; Sulfate  de  morphine , Fr. ; Morphinsulfat,  Schwefelsaures  Morphin , G. 

Formula  (C17H19N03)2H2S04.5H20.  Molecular  weight  756.38. 

67 


1058 


MOSCHUS. 


Preparation. — This  salt  may  be  prepared  in  the  same  manner  as  the  hydrochlorate. 
1 ounce  of  pure  morphine  is  diffused  in  2 ounces  of  boiling  distilled  water,  and  diluted 
sulphuric  acid  is  cautiously  added  until  the  alkaloid  is  dissolved  and  the  liquid  has  a 
neutral  reaction  to  test-paper ; it  is  then  allowed  to  cool  and  crystallize ; the  crystals  are 
drained  and  dried,  and  the  mother-liquor  concentrated  to  obtain  an  additional  crop  of 
crystals. 

The  importation  of  morphine  and  its  salts  into  the  United  States  amounted  to  some- 
what over  3000  ounces  annually  in  1879  and  for  some  years  previous,  but  has  been  much 
larger  since,  and  was  23,239  ounces  in  1882. 

Properties. — Morphine  sulphate  crystallizes  in  white  fasicles  of  transparent, 
silky,  inodorous,  and  bitter  needles,  which  are  neutral  to  test-paper,  and  are  not  altered 
on  exposure  to  air.  At  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  it  parts  with  3 molecules  of  water  (7.48  per 
cent.) ; but  on  being  heated  to  130°  C.  (266°  F.)  it  loses  the  remaining  two  molecules 
(4.39  per  cent.).  On  raising  the  heat  to  255°  C.  (491°  F.)  the  salt  melts,  and  at  a higher 
temperature  is  consumed  without  leaving  a residue ; the  exsiccated  salt  absorbs  water  on 
exposure  (Liebig).  The  official  salt  dissolves  in  21  parts  of  water  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  in 
0.75  parts  of  boiling  water,  in  702  parts  of  alcohol  at  15°  C.,  and  in  144  parts  of  boiling 
alcohol  ( U.  S.  P .)  ; Hager  states  it  as  readily  soluble,  and  P.  C.  Candidus  (1882)  found 
it  to  dissolve  in  40  parts  of  alcohol.  It  dissolves  in  5 parts  of  glycerin  (Reveil,  1863), 
but  is  insoluble  in  ether.  The  salt  represents  75.2  per  cent,  of  anhydrous  and  79.94  per 
cent,  of  crystallized  morphine.  Its  aqueous  solution  yields  a white  precipitate  with 
barium  chloride  insoluble  in  nitric  acid.  Dott  (1877)  noticed  an  article  sold  in  Eng- 
land which  was  adulterated  with  34.63  per  cent,  of  anhydrous  sodium  sulphate. 

Tests. — Morphine  sulphate  should  have  a neutral  reaction  to  test-paper,  should 
show  the  behavior  of  morphine  salts  described  in  the  article  on  Morphina. 

Other  Salts  of  Morphine. — Morphina:  iiydrqbromas,  C17H19N03HBr.2H20 ; mol.  weight, 
401.06.  This  salt  is  prepared  by  dissolving  the  alkaloid  in  warm  hydrobromic  acid  or  by  double 
decomposition  between  alcoholic  solutions  of  six  parts  of  potassium  bromide  and  19  parts  of 
morphine  sulphate,  and  by  evaporating  the  filtrate  from  the  precipitated  potassium  sulphate. 
E.  Schmidt  (1877)  found  it  to  crystallize  in  long  white  needles,  which  are  more  soluble  in  water 
than  the  hydriodate,  and  become  anhydrous  at  100°  C.  According  to  Latour,  it  contains  3H20, 
and  requires  25  parts  of  water  at  15°  C.  for  solution. 

Morphina:  hydriodas,  C17H19N03.HI.2H20  ; mol.  weight,  447.83.  It  is  prepared,  like  the 
preceding,  from  morphine  and  hydriodic  acid,  or  from  4 parts  of  potassium  iodide  and  9 parts 
of  morphine  sulphate.  A concentrated  solution  of  potassium  iodide,  added  to  a solution  of 
morphine  acetate  or  hydrochlorate,  separates  the  same*  salt.  It  crystallizes  in  long  silky 
needles,  parts  with  its  water  at  100°  C.,  and  recombines  with  it  on  exposure  to  air.  Prepared 
by  either  process,  Schmidt  found  it  to  have  the  above  formula  and  to  be  sparingly  soluble  in  cold 
water. 

Morphina:  tartras  (C17H19N03)2C4II606.3H20 ; mol.  weight,  772.28.  On  dissolving  4 parts  of 
morphine  with  1 part  of  tartaric  acid  in  20  parts  of  hot  water,  the  greater  portion  of  the  salt 
crystallizes  on  cooling  in  small  needles.  It  is  somewhat  efflorescent  in  dry  air,  loses  at  130°  C. 
6.76  per  cent,  of  water,  is  soluble  in  alcohol,  and  dissolves  in  9.7  parts  of  water  at  15°  C.  (Dott, 
1882)  *,  the  aqueous  solution  is  not  precipitated  by  alkalies,  alkali  carbonates,  or  calcium  chloride 
(Arppe).  The  salt  represents  78.3  per  cent,  of  crystallized  morphine. 

Morphina:  meconas  (Cj7H19N03)2C7H407.5H20  , mol.  weight,  858.07.  This  salt  is  present  in 
opium,  and  may  be  prepared  by  neutralizing  morphine  with  meconic  acid.  According  to  Robi- 
quet,  it  is  uncrystallizable  and  is  readily  soluble  in  alcohol,  and,  according  to  Dott  (1882),  dis- 
solves in  33.9  parts  of  water  at  15.5°  C.  (60°  F.). 

Uses. — Sulphate  of  morphine  is  more  generally  used  than  any  of  the  other  salts  of 
this  alkaloid.  Its  dose  is  about  Gm.  0.01  (gr.  1). 

MOSCHUS,  U.  8.,  Br. — Musk. 

Muse,  Fr.  Cod. ; Moschus,  G. ; Almizell,  Sp. 

The  dried  secretion  from  the  preputial  follicles  of  Moschus  moschiferus,  Linne. 

Class  Mammalia.  Ord.  Ruminantia. 

Origin. — The  musk  deer  resembles  the  deer  (Cervus),  but  differs  from  it  in  the  want 
of  horns,  and  in  the  canines,  which  are  long  and  project  considerably  downward  from  the 
lips  of  the  male.  It  inhabits  chiefly  the  mountainous  regions  and  elevated  table-lands 
of  Central  Asia,  and  is  met  with  from  Anam,  in  Farther  India,  north-westward  to 
Thibet,  and  northward  in  China  and  Tartary  to  Mantchooria  and  Southern  Siberia.  It 
lives  in  pine  forests  in  the  Himalayas,  frequently  at  an  altitude  of  3000-4260  M. 
(10,000  to  14,000  feet).  The  musk-sac  is  found  in  the  male  only,  and  is  located  on  the 


MOSCH  US. 


1059 


Musk  Deer. 


Fig.  186. 


Fig.  187. 


abdomen,  immediately  before  the  preputial  orifice  and  to  the  rear  of  the  umbilicus.  The 
animal  has  nocturnal  habits  and  is  taken  by  snares  and  pit-  pIG 

falls,  or  sometimes  by  shooting ; the  sac  is  cut  off  as  soon 
as  possible,  and  rapidly  dried  by  pressing  it  against  heated 
stones. 

Description. — The  musk-bag  (called  sac,  pod,  or 
pouch)  is  oval  in  shape,  about  5 Cm.  (2  inches)  long  and 
38  Mm.  (II  inches)  wide,  with  a thickness  of  about  13 
Mm.  (I  inch).  The  upper  surface  is  smooth  and  flat,  the 
lower  surface  convex  and  hairy.  The  hairs  are  grayish 
and  brown,  rather  stiff"  and  appressed,  and  arranged  in  a 
circle  toward  the  aperture  near  the  centre  of  the  bag,  and  in  the  form  of  a pencil  toward 
the  preputial  orifice,  which  is  about  6 Mm.  (-4-  inch)  in  the  rear  of  the  former.  From  this 

orifice,  underneath  the  hairy  skin  between 
the  strata  of  the  muscular  coat  and  toward 
the  posterior  end  of  the  sac,  is  a canal  con- 
taining the  front  portion  of  the  thin  penis. 
Following  the  muscular  coat  is  the  musk- 
pouch  proper,  with  an  external  fibrous  coat, 
having  on  the  inner  surface  numerous  de- 
pressions resembling  meshes  and  surrounded 
by  folds,  and  covered  by  two  coats — the 
one  soft  and  pearly,  and  the  other  very  deli- 
cate, silvery-white  on  the  outside,  and  yel- 
lowish or  brownish  on  the  inside.  The 

Chinese  Musk-sac.  musk  is  supposed  to  be  separated  by  a 

Lower  surface.  Upper  surface.  , n i j r t*  r . 

number  ot  glands,  01  which  two  or  more 
are  situated  in  each  depression.  In  the  young  animal  the  secretion  is  slight  and  of  a 
milky  appearance,  but  after  it  has  passed  its  third  year  the  musk  is  of  better  quality ; 
in  the  fresh  state  it  is  of  an  unctuous  consistence. 

From  a record  kept  by  Messrs.  Cramer  and  Small  (Amer.  Jour.  Phar .,  1872,  p.  565)  the 
average  weight  of  Chinese  musk-bags  was  found  to  be  394  grains,  and  of  the  musk  in 
each  157  grains. 

Musk  is  of  a crummy  appearance,  near  the  musk-orifice  mixed  with  grayish  hairs  of  a 
reddish-brown  color  or  darker  brown,  and  irregularly  granular,  somewhat  unctuous  to  the 
touch,  of  a strong,  diffusible,  and  persistent  odor,  and  of  a bitterish  taste.  When  entirely 
exsiccated  it  is  almost  inodorous,  but  the  odor  reappears  on  moistening,  and  is  increased 
by  the  addition  of  a little  alkali.  Musk  should  be  kept  in  not  too  warm  a place,  where 
the  air  has  some  access  to  it.  The  German  Pharmacopoeia  now  requires  it,  for  medicinal 
use,  to  be  dried  over  sulphuric  acid  until  it  ceases  to  lose  weight.  Its  odor  disappears  or 
is  more  or  less  modified  on  triturating  the  musk  with  camphor,  oil  of  bitter  almond,  fennel, 
ergot,  mustard,  sulphur,  acids,  various  salts,  etc. 

Varieties. — Several  varieties  are  known  in  commerce,  the  best  being  the  Chinese , 
Thibet , or  Tonquin  musk.  It  is  usually  imported  in  small  boxes,  internally  lined  with 
sheet  lead  and  containing  about  twenty-five  sacs,  each  wrapped  in  paper.  The  outer  hairs 
are  trimmed  short,  and  are  of  a yellowish  or  grayish  color.  Musk  enters  commerce  through 
the  Chinese  ports.  Siberian  musk  comes  by  way  of  St.  Petersburg,  hence  the  name  Rus- 
sian musk;  it  often  resembles  and  has  the  same  quality  as  the  preceding ; when  in  flatter 
ovate  sacs  with  thinner  and  paler  hairs,  and  of  fainter,  less  aromatic,  and  more  urinous 
odor,  it  is  called  Cabardine  musk.  The  small  and  inferior  Bucharian  and  Assam  musk- 
sacs  rarely,  if  ever,  reach  this  country.  Chinese  musk  only  should  be  employed  in  medi- 
cine, and  should  always  be  purchased  in  sacs. 

Substitutions  and  Adulterations. — The  substitution  of  artificial  musk-bags, 
made  from  a piece  of  the  hide  stitched  to  a membrane,  is  readily  recognized  by  the 
absence  of  the  circular  arrangement  of  the  hairs  and  of  the  central  aperture.  Genuine 
sacs  are  sometimes  slit  open,  the  musk  partly  removed,  and  other  substances  introduced 
in  place  thereof.  This  may  usually  be  detected  by  being  stitched  together  on  the  edge 
of  the  hide  and  inside  membrane.  There  is  no  means  of  detecting  the  fraudulent  intro- 
duction through  the  orifice  of  pieces  of  lead,  etc.  until  after  the  bags  have  been  opened. 

Tests. — Musk  should  not  have  an  ammoniacal  odor.  Cold  water  dissolves  about  one- 
naif  the  weight  of  the  musk ; the  solution  should  be  deep-brown,  faintly  acid,  and 
scarcely  disturbed  by  solution  of  corrosive  sublimate  (ammonium  carbonate).  Weak 


1060 


MOSCHUS. 


alcohol  yields  a similar  solution.  Strong  alcohol  dissolves  about  10  per  cent.,  yielding  a 
slightly  colored  tincture,  which  should  scarcely  become  turbid  on  the  addition  of  water 
(resins,  etc.).  Carefully  freed  from  fragments  of  skin  and  hairs  and  heated  upon 
platinum-foil,  musk  should  give  off  a slightly  urinous  odor,  but  very  distinct  from  the 
odor  of  burning  blood,  and  should  leave  about  6 to  8 per  cent,  of  a gray  (not  red)  ash. 
The  German  Pharmacopoeia  has  adopted  the  examination  of  musk  by  the  method  sug- 
gested by  Bernatzik  : A small  quantity  of  musk,  kept  in  a thin  layer  under  oil  of  turpen- 
tine (or  warmed  with  a little  glycerin),  and  examined  under  the  microscope,  is  seen  to 
consist  of  diaphanous  brown  amorphous  splinters  and  lumps,  without  being  mixed  with 
other  foreign  substances. 

Constituents. — Musk,  treated  with  potassa,  gives  off  ammonia ; it  contains  choles- 
terin,  various  fatty  and  waxy  substances,  gelatinous  and  albuminous  compounds,  and  salts. 
The  odorous  principle  volatilizes  partly  with  the  vapors  of  water,  but  is  not  a volatile  oil ; 
it  is  most  probably  formed  in  the  presence  of  moisture  by  the  slow  and  continuous  decom- 
position of  one  of  the  constituents. 

Allied  Drugs. — Antilope  Dorcas,  Linni.  This  is  a deer-like  ruminant  inhabiting  Northern 
Africa.  Its  small  globular  excrements  have  a strong  musk-like  odor,  and  have  been  recommended 
as  a substitute  for  musk,  more  especially  in  perfumery.  Jacqueme  obtained  from  them  7 per  cent, 
of  alcoholic  extract,  consisting  of  biliary  substances,  of  a crystallizable  acid,  and  of  an  odorous 
resin,  which  is  also  soluble  in  carbon  disulphide.  Water  dissolves  ammonium  and  sodium  salts, 
and  the  insoluble  portion  contains  calcium  phosphate. 

IIyraceum  is  supposed  to  be  the  dry  excrements  of  the  klipdas  or  badger  (Hyrax  capensis,  Cuvier ), 
a mammal  of  the  order  Hyracoidea,  inhabiting  Southern  Africa  and  attaining  a length  of  about 
18  inches  (45  Cm.).  Hyraceum  is  in  irregular  tough  but  plastic  pieces  of  a black-brown  color-, 
when  warmed  of  a castor-like  odor  and  having  a bitter  nauseous  taste.  It  is  partly  soluble  in 
water,  less  soluble  in  alcohol  and  ether,  and  when  heated  becomes  soft,  and  afterward  burns, 
giving  off  acrid  vapors.  It  contains  a volatile  oily  matter,  resin,  fat,  various  acids,  biliary  con- 
stituents, etc. 

Civetta,  Zibethum. — Civet,  E. ; Civette,  Fr.  Cod.;  Zibeth,  G. ; Zibeto,  Sp.  This  is 
an  unctuous  secretion  contained  in  a pouch  located  between  the  anus  and  genitals  of  both  the 
males  and  females  of  Viverra  Civetta,  Schreber , and  V.  Zibetha,  Schreber  (class  Mammalia,  ord. 
Carnivora).  The  former  animal  inhabits  Africa,  the  latter  Southern  Asia,  and  they  are  occa- 
sionally kept  captive  for  collecting  the  secretion,  which  is  removed  by  means  of  a small  ladle. 
It  is  at  first  yellowish,  but  becomes  dark-brown,  is  fusible,  nearly  insoluble  in  water,  partly 
soluble  in  ether  and  in  hot  alcohol,  and  has  a strong  musk-like  odor  and  a bitterish,  acrid, 
nauseous  taste.  It  contains  volatile  oil,  different  fats,  resin,  coloring  matters,  and  salts. 

The  above  substances  are  sometimes,  though  rarely,  employed  as  stimulants  and  anti- 
spasmodics,  but  are  more  or  less  used  in  perfumery. 

Action  and  Uses. — In  man  it  produces  an  effect  comparable  to  that  of  alcohol, 
since,  after  stimulating  the  brain  and  heart  and  raising  the  temperature,  it  occasions, 
according  to  some,  drowsiness  and  thoracic  oppression,  but,  according  to  others,  leaves  no 
reactionary  effects  behind..  Its  odor  continues  for  several  days  to  impregnate  the  breath 
and  all  the  secretions. 

The  scarcity,  high  price,  and  falsification  of  musk  have  caused  its  use  to  be  compara- 
tively restricted,  and  explain  the  varying  and  often  contradictory  estimates  of  its  value 
as  a medicine  Yet,  on  the  whole,  the  conditions  it  is  adapted  to  remedy  are  pretty  well 
defined.  They  include  all  those  nervous  phenomena  which  are  represented  by  the  term 
ataxia , and  among  them  subsultus  tendinum,  mild  muttering  delirium,  floccitation,  muscas 
volitantes,  and  hiccough,  with  a small,  frequent,  tremulous  or  irregular  pulse,  without 
coma  and  without  collapse.  Under  these  circumstances  musk  tends  to  produce  refreshing 
sleep,  while  it  calms  muscular  spasm  and  favors  perspiration,  while  the  pulse  grows 
fuller,  more  regular,  and  less  frequent.  These  are  phenomena  which  may  occur  in  all 
febrile  diseases  originally  of  a typhoid  type  or  tending  to  assume  it,  and  notably  in 
typhus , typhoid  fever , generally  at  an  advanced  stage,  the  eruptive  fevers , and  certain 
inflammations  also,  but  particularly  pneumonia.  In  proportion  as  ataxic  prevail  over 
adynamic  phenomena  is  musk  advantageous.  The  former  are  often  met  with  in  the 
advanced  stages  of  cholera  infantum , besides  others  that  indicate  serous  effusion  upon  the 
brain  ; and  they  are  sometimes  dissipated  by  the  administration  of  musk.  Yet  it  occa- 
sionally avails  in  more  typically  adynamic  cases,  in  which  exhaustion  involves  all  the 
functions,  and  there  does  not  seem  to  remain  enough  strength  to  manifest  disorder. 

Its  fitness  to  combat  the  special  phenomena  above  indicated  is  illustrated  by  its  efficacy 
in  purely  nervous  and  non-febrile  affections.  There  can  be  no  doubt  of  its  having 
repeatedly  effected  a cure  in  cases  of  hiccough , pharyngeal  spasm , laryngismus  stridulus , 
spasmodic  croup  (spasmodic  laryngitis),  spasmodic  cough , whooping  cough , vomiting , and 


MOXA. 


1061 


colic.  Even  chorea , hysterical  convulsions , and  tetanus  have  occasionally  been  cured  by  its 
means.  Its  power  as  a nervine  is  also  shown  by  its  relieving  wakefulness  resulting  from 
combined  mental  and  bodily  fatigue — such  cases,  in  fact,  as  are  benefited  by  valerian, 
camphor,  asafoetida,  and  ammonia.  Among  these  may  be  mentioned  delirium  tremens. 
Macgowan  confirms  the  belief  of  the  Chinese  that  musk  is  anodyne,  and  recommends  its 
use  in  plasters  for  muscular  rheumatism,  sprains,  etc. 

Musk  is  usually  administered  in  pill  or  emulsion  and  in  doses  of  6m.  0.60  (10  grains) 
or  upward,  every  two  or  three  hours.  It  may  also  be  employed  in  suppositories.  To 
children  it  may  be  given  in  doses  of  6m.  0.06  (gr.  j+)  in  the  above-mentioned  forms  or 
in  a small  enema. 


MOXA.-Moxa. 

Moxa,  Fr.,  Sp. ; Brenncy Under,  G. 

Moxas  are  vegetable  substances,  either  cut  or  formed  into  short  cylinders,  and  wrhich 
when  united  will  burn  without  fusing.  In  China  and  Japan  moxas  are  made  of  the  felt- 
like down  covering  the  leaves  of  Artemisia  chinensis,  Linne,  and  perhaps  of  other  plants. 
In  other  countries  paper,  cotton,  or  hemp  impregnated  with  a weak  solution  of  potassium 
nitrate  has  been  employed  for  the  purpose,  or  the  pith  of  some  plants  containing  sufficient 
nitrates  to  sustain  an  even  combustion,  like  that  of  the  sunflower.  Occasionally  mixtures 
have  been  made  of  potassium  nitrate  with  substances  like  lycopodium,  beaten  together 
with  some  adhesive  material  and  rolled  into  cylinders  of  convenient  size.  Instead  of 
nitrate,  potassium  chlorate  or  chromate  has  been  employed.  Cylinders  made  of  saltpetre- 
paper  (see  Charts)  have  been  used  for  the  same  purpose. 

Action  and  Uses.— The  moxa  is  said  to  have  been  employed  as  a form  of  cau- 
tery from  time  immemorial  by  Oriental  nations,  and  particularly  by  the  Chinese  and 
Japanese,  from  whom  it  was  introduced  into  Europe  by  the  Portuguese ; but  it  was  also 
used  by  the  Egyptians,  the  Persians,  and  the  Laplanders.  The  moxa  cylinder  should 
be  about  an  inch  long  and  from  | to  I inch  in  diameter.  One  end  of  it  is  applied  to  the 
skin  and  held  in  its  place  by  a pair  of  forceps  or  a porte-moxa , while  the  opposite  end  is 
lighted  and  the  surrounding  skin  protected  by  a damp  rag,  adhesive  plaster,  or  paper 
saturated  with  a solution  of  alum  and  dried  aud  having  an  aperture  in  its  centre.  Com- 
bustion is  maintained  by  the  breath  or  by  a pair  of  bellows  until  the  whole  cylinder  is 
consumed.  To  prevent  deep  cauterization  liquor  ammonias  is  applied  immediately  after 
the  burning.  Sometimes  the  cylinder  is  moved  about  within  a small  area,  without  permit- 
ting any  one  spot  to  become  deeply  involved ; or  it  may  be  held  very  near,  but  without 
touching  the  skin  ; or,  finally,  it  may  be  removed  when  the  combustion  of  the  moxa  has 
reached  to  within  a line  or  two  of  the  skin.  It  should  not  usually  be  applied  where  the 
skin  is  the  only  covering  of  bone,  tendon,  ligament,  or  cartilage,  nor  to  the  mammae, 
genital  organs,  or  abdomen.  The  first  sensation  of  heat  is  apt  to  be  considered  agreeable 
rather  than  painful,  but  it  increases  and  grows  tolerably  severe.  Yet  we  are  assured  that 
it  causes  less  pain  than  either  blisters  or  caustic  issues. 

In  regard  to  the  modus  operandi  of  the  moxa,  those  who  have  most  employed  it  con- 
sider that  its  action  differs  from  that  of  the  hot  iron.  Some  have  suggested  that  a very 
volatile  (anesthetic)  principle  is  given  off  by  the  burning  fibres,  and  in  point  of  fact  an 
empyreumatic  oil  must  be  formed  by  their  combustion  upon  or  near  the  skin  ; others 
consider  that  the  operation  is  most  elficient  when  there  is  really  no  burning  of  the 
integument  or  any  serous  or  purulent  discharge. 

The  remedial  uses  of  moxa  are  those  of  counter-irritant  agents  in  general.  It  seems 
to  have  been  most  efficient  in  affections  of  the  superficial  joints,  as  the  knee  and  the  wrist ; 
in  white  swelling  and  coxalgia  ; in  diseases  of  the  vertebrae  and  their  ligaments,  and  in  lum- 
bar abscess ; in  neuralgia,  and  especially  in  sciatica  ; in  lumbago,  rheumatic  gout,  and  par- 
alysis; and  finally  in  hypertrophy  of  the  spleen  and  in  chronic  bronchitis.  Of  late  years 
most  of  the  applications  of  the  moxa  have  been  superseded  by  those  of  the  galvanic  cau- 
tery. This  cautery  has  the  advantage  of  being  under  the  control  of  the  surgeon  more 
completely  than  any  other,  and  also  of  being  applicable  to  deep-seated  lesions  even  of  the 
bones. 


1062 


MUCILA  GINES.—MUCILA  G 0 AMYLI. 


MUOILAGINES.— Mucilages. 

Mucilages , Fr. ; Schleime , G. 

These  preparations  consist  of  viscid,  more  or  less  tenacious,  and  adhesive  liquids,  or  of 
opaque  semi-liquid  jellies  ; in  all  cases  the  solvent  vehicle  is  water.  All  mucilages  as 
directed  by  the  pharmacopoeias  are  prone  to  change,  and  gradually  acquire  an  acid  reac- 
tion and  offensive  odor,  at  the  same  time  becoming  more  liquid.  If  not  intended  for 
medicinal  use  the  change  may  be  retarded  or  prevented  by  the  addition  of  alum,  creosote, 
or  glycerin. 

MUCILAGO  AC ACIiE,  77.  S.,  Br.— Mucilage  of  Acacia. 

Mucilago  gummi  arabici,  P.  Gr. — Mucilage  of  gum-arabic , E. ; Mucilage  de  gomme  ara- 
bique , Mucilage  arabique , Fr.  ; Gummischleim , G. 

Preparation. — Acacia,  in  small  fragments,  340  Gm. ; Water  a sufficient  quantity, 
to  make  1000  Gm.  Wash  the  acacia  with  cold  water,  then  add  to  it  enough  water  to 
make  the  mixture  weigh  1000  Gm.  ; agitate  or  stir  occasionally  until  it  is  dissolved  and 
strain. — U.  JS. 

To  prepare  1 pint  of  mucilage  of  acacia  use  6 av.  ozs.  and  175  grains  of  select  acacia 
and  12  fluidounees  of  water;  after  solution  lias  been  effected  add  sufficient  water  to  make 
the  required  volume. 

Gum-arabic  4 oz.  av.  ; distilled  water  6 fluidounees  (Imperial). — Br.  Gum-arabic  1 
part ; distilled  water  2 parts. — P.  G.  Powdered  gum-arabic  1 part ; cold  water  1 part ; 
dissolve  in  a mortar. — F.  Cod. 

Owing  to  the  fact  that  the  solution  of  acacia  becomes  denser  as  it  progresses,  stirring 
or  agitation  of  the  mixture  will  be  found  somewhat  difficult,  and  solution  can  be  more 
readily  effected  by  what  is  known  as  circulatory  displacement,  namely,  the  suspension 
of  the  washed  acacia  in  the  water  in  a bag  of  loosely  textured  cloth  ; if  the  bag  be  occa- 
sionally moved  about  in  the  liquid,  fresh  portions  of  water  will  continually  displace  the 
solution  formed,  which  latter  will  sink  to  the  bottom  by  reason  of  its  own  gravity. 
Mucilage  of  acacia  should  be  kept  in  well-stoppered,  completely  filled  bottles  in  a cool 
place. 

White  and  clear  pieces  of  gum-arabic  should  be  selected  for  preparing  this  mucilage. 
The  impurities  which  necessitate  the  subsequent  straining  are  generally  accidental  admix- 
tures of  the  gum,  and  may  mostly  be  removed  by  rapid  washing  with  cold  water  before 
dissolving  it.  It  is  a nearly  transparent,  colorless,  or  scarcely  yellowish,  viscid  liquid, 
having  a faint  rather  agreeable  odor  and  an  insipid  taste. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — This  mucilage  serves  for  the  suspension  of  insoluble 
substances  in  mixtures  and  to  impart  adhesiveness  to  pill  masses.  The  British  Pharma- 
copoeia directs  it  to  be  used  as  an  excipient  in  the  preparation  of  troches. 

Mistura  gummosa. — Gum  mixture,  E.  ; Potion  gommeuse,  Julep  gommeux,  Fr  ; 
Gummimixtur,  G. — Powdered  gum  10  parts,  syrup  of  gum  30  parts,  water  100  parts 
and  orange-flower  water  10  parts. — F.  Cod. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  mucilage,  diluted  according  to  the  taste  or  the  condition 
of  the  patient,  and,  sweetened  and  flavored,  forms  a customary  drink  in  fevers  and  in 
inflammatory  affections  of  the  respiratory  and  digestive  organs.  It  is  probably  not  directly 
nutritive,  but  it  possibly  retards  tissue-waste. 

MUCILAGO  AMYLI,  Br. — Mucilage  of  Starch. 

Mucilage  d'amidon , Fr.  ; Starkeschleim , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Starch  120  grains;  Distilled  Water  10  fluidounees.  Tritu- 
rate the  starch  with  the  water  gradually  added,  then  boil  for  a few  minutes,  constantly 
stirring. — Br. 

It  should  always  be  made  fresh  when  needed. 

Action  and  Uses. — Mucilage  of  starch  is  generally  entrusted  to  domestic  manu- 
facture, but  it  may  be  worth  while  for  physicians  to  know  that  this  mucilage  is  of  the 
proper  density  for  an  enema,  such  as  may  be  used  in  dysentery.  In  that  disease,  if  opiates 
or  any  other  medicines  intended  to  be  retained  are  to  be  added  to  the  mucilage,  the  quantity 
of  it  injected  should  not  exceed  3 ounces. 


MTJCILAGO  CYD0XI1. — M UCUNA. 


1063 


MUCILAGO  CYDONIL— Mucilage  of  Cydonium. 

Mudlago  cydonie. — Mucilage  of  quince-seed , E. ; Mucilage  de  coing , Fr.  ; Quittenschleim , G . 

Preparation. — Cydonium  18  grains;  Distilled  Water  2 fluidounces.  Macerate  the 
cydonium  for  thirty  minutes  in  a covered  vessel  with  the  distilled  water,  frequently  agi- 
tating. Then  strain  the  liquid  through  muslin,  without  pressure.  This  preparation 
should  be  freshly  made  when  required  for  use. 

The  P.  G.  1872  recognized  the  same  formula,  hut  employed  rose-water.  The  French 
Codex  directs  quince-seed  1 part  and  tepid  water  50  parts,  to  be  left  in  contact  for  six 
hours,  after  which  the  mucilage  is  strained  with  pressure. 

Bandolin  is  a-mucilage  of  quince-seeds  used  for  dressing  the  hair,  and  is  made  by 
macerating  2 drachms  of  unbroken  quince-seeds  in  a pint  of  water,  and  adding  about  an 
ounce  of  cologne-water,  with  some  other  scent  to  suit. 

Action  and  Uses. — Quince-seed  mucilage  is  lenitive  and  protective,  and,  like  other 
mucilages,  may  be  applied  to  the  inflamed  skin  or  conjunctive , and  may  be  administered 
internally  in  gastro-intestinal  and  urinary  inflammations,  and  to  allay  cough , irritation  of 
the  air-passages,  etc. 

MUCILAGO  SASSAFRAS  MEDULLA  77.  S.— Mucilage  of  Sassa- 
fras-pith. 

Mucilage  de  moelle  de  sassafras,  Fr.  ; Sassafrasmark-Schleim , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Sassafras-pith  2 Gm.  ; Water  100  Cc.  Macerate  for  three 
hours,  and  strain.  It  should  be  freshly  made  when  wanted. — U.  S. 

It  is  a colorless,  thickish,  transparent  liquid  of  a bland  taste. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  mucilage  of  sassafras-pith  is  a refreshing  and  useful 
application  to  the  eye  in  acute  conjunctivitis , and  may  serve  as  a vehicle  for  more  active 
agents.  It  is  equally  appropriate  as  a soothing  lotion  in  erythematous  and  other  inflam- 
mations of  the  skin.  Internally,  it  may  be  freely  used  as  a drink  in  dysentery  and  other 
bowel  complaints,  and  in  febrile  affections  generally. 

MUCILAGO  TRAGACANTHiE,  77.  S.,  Br.~ Mucilage  of  Tragacanth. 

Mucilage  de  gomme  adragante , Mucilage  adragant,  Fr.  ; Traganthschleim , G. 

Preparation. — Tragacanth  6 Gm. ; Glycerin  18  Gm. ; Water  a sufficient  quantity, 
to  make  100  Gm.  Mix  the  glycerin  with  75  Cc.  of  water;  heat  the  mixture  to  boiling, 
add  the  tragacanth,  and  let  it  macerate  for  twrenty-four  hours,  stirring  occasionally. 
Then  add  enough  water  to  make  the  mixture  weigh  100  Gm.,  beat  it  so  as  to  render  it 
of  uniform  consistence,  and  strain  forcibly  through  muslin. — U.  S. 

Action  and  Uses. — Tragacanth  mucilage  has  scarcely  any  medicinal  qualities 
peculiar  to  itself.  It  is  seldom  used  unless  as  an  excipient  in  lenitive  mixtures,  and  in 
troches  and  lozenges  which  are  intended  to  dissolve  slowly  in  the  mouth.  Its  tenacity 
has  led  to  its  occasional  use  as  a protective  for  burns  and  ulcers. 

MUCILAGO  ULMI,  U.  S.— Mucilage  of  Elm. 

Mucilage  d'ecorce  dlorme  fauve,  Fr. ; Ulmenrinden-Schleim,  G. 

Preparation. — Elm,  bruised,  6 Gm.  ; Boiling  Water  100  Cc.  Digest  for  one  hour  in 
a covered  vessel  on  a water-bath,  and  strain. — U.  S. 

The  mucilage  contains  at  least  a portion  of  the  starch  of  the  bark  ; if  intended  to  be 
free  from  starch,  cold  water  should  be  used.  (See  also  Decoctum  ulmi.) 

Action  and  Uses. — As  a demulcent,  mucilage  of  slippery  elm  is  employed  in  acute 
affections  of  the  respiratory,  digestive,  and  urinary  organs.  As  a lenitive  for  external 
use  it  is  frequently  applied  to  erysipelatous  and  other  acute  cutaneous  eruptions , abscesses , 
rheumatic  joints , etc.  It  is  very  apt  to  grow  sour,  and,  if  allowed  to  get  dry,  renders  the 
skin  painfully  hard  and  stiff. 


MUCUNA. — Cowhage. 

Setse  silique  hirsute. — Cowhage , E. ; Pois  veins,  Pois  d gratter,  Fr.  ; Kratzbohnen,  Kuh- 
krdtze,  G.  ; Pica-pica,  Sp. 

The  hairs  of  the  pods  of  Mucuna  (Dolichos,  Linne,  Stizolobium,  Persoon,  Carpopagon, 


1064 


MY  RICA. 


Roxburgh)  pruriens,  De  Candolle , s.  Mucuna  prurita,  Hooker.  Woodville,  Med.  Bot .,  t. 
153;  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 78. 

Nat.  Ord. — Leguminosse,  Papilionaceae. 

Origin. — This  is  a long,  slender,  twining  plant,  with  large  trifoliate,  nearly  smooth 
leaves,  and  showy  dark-purple  and  greenish  flowers  in  pendulous  axillary  racemes,  pro- 
ducing flattish,  hairy,  S-shaped  legumes,  with  about  four  brownish  seeds  mottled  with 
black.  It  is  cultivated  and  wild  both  in  the  East  and  AVest  Indies. 

Description. — The  hairs  covering  the  legumes  are  about  3 Mm.  (4  inch)  long,  of  a 
glossy-brown  color,  straight,  quadrangular  prismatic,  sharply  pointed  at  the  apex,  some- 
what retrorsely  serrate  on  the  upper  half,  and  partly  empty,  partly  filled  with  a brown 
granular  matter.  They  easily  penetrate  the  skin,  and  occasion  an  intolerable  itching, 
which  is  greatly  increased  by  washing  and  rubbing. 

The  fruits  of  Stizolobium  (Mucuna,  De  Candolle , Dolichos,  Linne)  urens,  Persoon , are 
shorter,  less  bent,  and  covered  with  shorter  and  darker  hairs,  which  are  used  like  the  pre- 
ceding. An  emulsion  of  the  seeds  is  used  in  the  West  Indies  in  dysuria,  and  an  infusion 
of  the  root  of  the  first  species  is  considered  to  possess  diuretic  properties,  and  in  India  is 
employed  as  a remedy  in  cholera. 

Constituents. — Nothing  is  known  of  the  composition  of  cowhage,  except  that  it 
contains  a little  tannin  and  resin  (Martius,  182V). 

Action  and  Uses. — Cowhage  was  originally  employed  as  a vermifuge  under  the 
idea  that  its  prickly  setae,  which  irritate  the  skin  so  severely  and  are  so  difficult  to  detach, 
would  wound  and  injure  the  worms,  and  either  kill  them  or  promote  their  expulsion. 
Observation  showed,  however,  that  when  the  spiculae  are  moistened  they  are  quite  innoc- 
uous, and  there  is  much  reason  for  believing  that  the  supposed  vermicide  virtues  of  this 
substance  are  imaginary.  It  is  difficult  to  imagine  that  an  agent  which  has  actually 
been  employed  to  produce  a painful  irritation  and  eruption  upon  'paralyzed  limbs  for  the 
purpose  of  arousing  their  dormant  functions  should  cripple  or  destroy  intestinal  worms 
and  leave  the  intestine  itself  uninjured.  As  a vermifuge  the  setae  were  mixed  with  honey 
or  molasses  by  dipping  the  pods  in  the  liquid,  and  when  it  reached  the  consistence  of 
an  electuary  it  was  given,  fasting,  in  doses  of  one  or  more  teaspoonfuls  for  several 
successive  days.  Subsequently  a purge  of  calomel  and  jalap  was  prescribed,  and 
this  was,  doubtless,  the  most  efficient  part  of  the  treatment.  When  formerly  used  to 
relieve  paralysis,  it  was  applied  in  a layer  upon  the  affected  part,  supported  by  thin  paper 
or  a similar  substance,  or  else  incorporated  in  simple  ointment  or  lard. 

M YRIC  A . — W ax-Myrtle. 

Bayberry , Candleberry,  E.  ; Arbre  a suif  Fr. ; Wachsbaum,  Wachsgagel , Gr. ; Arbal  del 
la  cera , Sp. 

Myrica  cerifera,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Myricaceae. 

Origin. — The  wax-myrtle  is  shrubby  or  arborescent,  and  grows  near  Lake  Erie,  but 
chiefly  along  the  Atlantic  coast  of  North  America.  It  has  alternate,  oblong-lanceolate, 
entire  or  near  the  apex  sparingly  toothed  leaves,  which  are  nearly  smooth,  on  both  sides 
covered  with  resinous  dots,  and  fragrant  when  bruised.  The  flowers  are  dioecious,  the 
staminate  ones  in  nearly  cylindrical  catkins  about  18  Mm.  (f  inch)  long,  the  pistillate 
ones  shorter,  and  producing  globular  one-seeded  nuts,  which  are  of  the  size  of  a pea, 
blackish,  and  covered  with  a white  waxy  incrustation. 

The  bark  and  waxy  incrustation  of  the  fruit  have  been  employed. 

Description. — 1.  The  bark  is  in  quills  or  curved  pieces  about  1.5  Mm.  (y1^  inch) 
thick,  externally  covered  with  a whitish,  slightly  wrinkled,  thin,  corky  layer,  which  sepa- 
rates in  small  fragments,  underneath  of  which  the  bark  is  dark  reddish-brown  and  nearly 
smooth,  resembling  the  inner  surface,  except  that  the  latter  is  slightly  striate.  The  frac- 
ture is  granular,  of  a pale-reddish  color,  and  scarcely  fibrous  in  the  inner  layer.  The  bark 
yields  a light  reddish-brown  irritating  powder,  which  has  a peculiar  aromatic  odor  and  an 
astringent  somewhat  bitter  and  pungently  acrid  taste. 

2.  Myrtle-wax,  or  bayberry  tallow , is  prepared  by  boiling  the  fruit  with  water  until  the 
fat  collects  on  the  surface.  It  has  a balsamic  odor,  is  harder  and  more  brittle  than  bees- 
wax, varies  in  color  between  green,  yellowish,  and  gray,  and  breaks  with  a shallow  con- 
choidal  fracture.  Gr.  E.  Moore  (1862)  found  its  specific  gravity  to  range  from  1.004  to 
1.006,  its  fusing-point  from  47°  to  49°  C.  (116.6°  to  120.2°  F.),  and  four-fifths  of  it  to  be 
soluble  in  hot  alcohol. 


MYRISTICA. 


1065 


Constituents. — The  constituents  of  bayberry-bark,  as  determined  by  G.  M.  Ham- 
bright  (1863),  are,  besides  those  more  generally  met  with,  a trace  of  volatile  oil,  tannin, 
an  acrid  resin  soluble  in  alcohol  and  ether,  an  astringent  resin  insoluble  in  ether,  and 
myricinic  acid,  the  latter  obtained  from  the  alcoholic  extract,  after  having  been  treated 
with  ether,  by  exhausting  it  with  hot  absolute  alcohol.  It  forms  small  granules,  which 
produce  a thick  froth  on  being  agitated  with  water,  and  on  the  addition  of  ammonia  a 
deep-green  color,  rapidly  changing  to  red  and  yellow.  It  has  a lastingly  acrid  taste. 
Dana  obtained  from  the  fruit  32  per  cent,  of  solid  fat,  5 of  resin,  and  45  of  starch.  The 
myrtle-wax  consists,  according  to  G.  E.  Moore,  of  about  one-fifth  palmitin,  the  remainder 
being  palmitic  acid,  with  a small  quantity  of  lauric  acid. 

Allied  Plants. — Myrica  Gale,  Linn<?. — Sweet  gale,  Dutch  myrtle,  E. ; Piment  royal,  Gale 
odorant,  Fr. ; Gagel,  Brabanter  Myrte,  G.— This  is  a smaller  shrub  than  the  preceding,  growing 
in  swampy  places  from  the  mountains  of  North  Carolina  northward  to  Canada,  and  in  the 
northern  parts  of  Europe  and  Asia.  The  leaves  are  on  short  petioles  obovate-lanceolate,  wedge- 
shaped  at  the  base,  serrate  near  the  apex,  subcoriaceous,  softly  pubescent  beneath,  and  on  both 
sides  with  yellow  resinous  dots.  The  fruit  is  likewise  resinous-dotted.  The  leaves  and  brown 
branches  have  a strong  balsamic  odor  and  an  aromatic,  astringent,  and  bitterish  taste.  Raben- 
horst  (1836)  obtained  from  3000  parts  of  leaves  1 part  of  a thickish  volatile  oil  containing  70  per 
cent,  of  stearopten.  A solid  fat  similar  to  myrtle-wax  is  obtained  from  the  fruit  of  other  species 
of  Myrica  indigenous  to  different  countries. 

Myrica  jalapensis,  Kunth , the  root  bark  is  quite  acrid  and  astringent.  The  fruit  yields  a 

firm  fat. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  bark  of  the  root  is  acrid  and  stimulant,  and  in  doses  of  a 
drachm  causes  a sensation  of  heat  in  the  stomach,  followed  by  vomiting  and  sometimes 
bv  diuresis.  When  chewed  it  acts  as  a sialagogue,  and  has  proved  useful  in  toothache. 
The  powder  is  an  active  errhine.  The  leaves  have  some  celebrity  in  domestic  practice  as 
an  antispasmodic,  antiscorbutic,  and  astringent  medicine.  They  have  been  used  to  check 
haemoptysis.  The  other  native  species  are  very  similar  in  their  properties.  The  “ myrtle- 
wax  ” which  covers  the  berries  appears  to  have  astringent  and  slightly  narcotic  proper- 
ties, and  was  used  with  alleged  success  in  an  epidemic  of  typhoid  dysentery  when  it  was 
administered  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  4-8  (1  or  2 drachms)  (Griffith). 


MYRISTICA,  77.  S.,  Br.—  Nutmeg. 

Semen  myristicse,  P.  G. ; Nux  moschata. — Muscade , Noix  Muscade , Fr.  Cod.  ; Muskat- 
nuss , G. ; Nuez  mosedda , Sp. 

The  kernel  of  the  seed  of  Myristica  fragrans,  Houttuyn , s.  M.  moschata,  Thunherg , M. 
aromatica,  Lamarck , M.  officinalis,  Linne  jilius.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 218. 

Nat.  Ord. — Myristicacese. 

Origin. — The  nutmeg  tree  is  indigenous  to  the  Molucca  Islands,  but  is  at  present 
cultivated  in  various  parts  of  India,  in  the  Philippines,  West  Indies,  and  South  America. 
It  is  a tree  having  alternate,  smooth,  entire,  and  prominently  veined,  leathery  leaves,  and 
small,  yellowish,  dioecious  flowers,  and  the  stamens  united  into  a fleshy  column,  and 
a superior  ovary,  ripening  into  a dehiscent,  pear-shaped,  tough,  one-seeded  berry.  It 
commences  to  yield  fruit  when  about  nine  years  old,  and  continues  productive  for  sixty 
or  seventy  years. 

Collection. — The  fruit,  when  split  on  one  side,  is  gathered  by  means  of  a long  hook 
fastened  to  a long  stick;  the  pericarp  is  removed,  and  the  arillus  (see  Macis,  p.  1003) 
dptached  from  the  nut-like  seed,  which  on  the  Banda 
Islands  is  carefully  dried  first  by  solar  heat  for  a few 
days,  or  in  Bencoolen  at  once  on  frames  over  a slow 
wood-fire  at  a temperature  of  about  140°  F.  This 
requires  about  two  months,  during  which  time  the  seeds 
are  frequently  turned,  and  when  the  kernels  rattle  in 
the  shell  they  are  packed  for  the  Chinese  market.  The 
entire  seeds  do  not  enter  the  European  and  American 
commerce,  but  only  the  kernels,  which  are  removed 
from  the  shell  by  cracking  the  latter  with  a wooden 
mallet,  carefully  garbled  and  packed  ( unlimed  nutmegs ), 
sometimes  mixed  with  cloves,  in  casks  which  have 
been  smoked  and  whitewashed  on  the  inside.  In  the  Dutch  colonies  the  kernels  are 
dipped  in  a thick  milk  of  lime  ( limed  nutmegs ) — a custom  which  originated  in  the  desire 


Fig.  188. 


Nutmeg  with  mace,  and  transverse  section. 


1066 


MYRISTICA. 


to  destroy  the  vitality  of  the  embryo,  and  thus  limit  this  culture  to  their  own  pos- 
sessions. Small  and  worm-eaten  nutmegs  are  usually  used  for  obtaining  the  fixed 
oil. 

Description. — Nutmeg  in  the  shell  is  an  oval  or  elliptical  seed  about  25  Mm.  (1  inch) 
or  more  in  length,  with  a brown,  somewhat  glossy,  woody  but  brittle  testa,  light-brown 
raphe,  and  bearing  the  shallow  impression  of  the  mace.  The  nutmegs  of  our  commerce 
are  deprived  of  the  testa  or  shell,  oval  or  ovate  in  shape  25  Mm.  (1  inch)  or  a little  less 
in  length,  and  marked  on  the  broad  end  with  a circular  scar,  from  which  proceeds  a shal- 
low furrow  to  a deeper  depression  near  the  upper  end.  The  entire  surface  is  reticulately 
furrowed  and  of  a light-brown  color,  or  covered,  particularly  in  the  furrows,  with  a white 
powder  (lime).  The  embryo  is  located  near  the  broad  end  in  a small  conical  cavity  of 
the  albumen  or  endosperm,  which  constitutes  the  remainder  of  the  commercial  article,  is 
of  a pale  brownish-yellow  color,  has  a fatty  lustre,  and  is  dissected  by  numerous  curved 
channels  filled  with  brown  tissue  and  penetrated  by  the  inner  seed-coat  (tegmen).  Nut- 
megs have  a strong  and  pleasant  aromatic  odor  and  a warm,  aromatic, 
Fig.  189.  somewhat  bitter  taste. 

The  Penang  and  Singapore  nutmegs  are  unlimed ; the  Dutch  are 
limed. 

False  Nutmegs. — The  long , wild  or  male  nutmeg  resembles  the  foregoing, 
but  is  oblong,  about  4-5  Cm.  (1J  to  2 inches)  long ; the  mace  inodorous,  less 
deeply  lobed,  the  kernel  of  a paler  color  than  nutmeg,  and  scarcely  aromatic. 
It  is  obtained  from  Myristica  fatua,  Honttuyn , and  is  rarely  seen  in  our 
commerce. 

The  so-called  California  nutmeg  is  the  seed  of  Torreya  californica,  Tor- 
rey , s.  T.  Myristica,  Hooker ; nat.  ord.  Coniferae,  sub-ord.  Taxineae.  It  is 
oblong,  with  a smooth,  brownish,  thin  testa,  enclosing  a kernel  of  the  same 
shape,  which  has  upon  cross-section  a marbled  appearance  similar  to  that 
of  the  nutmeg,  but  has  a terebinthinate  odor  and  taste.  The  tree  grows  to 
the  height  of  21  M.  (70  feet),  and  has  an  odorous  light  colored  and  close- 
grained  wood. 

Constituents. — Nutmegs  contain  between  2 and  8 per  cent,  of 
volatile  oil  (see  Oleum  Myristkle),  between  25  and  30  per  cent. 
Wild Nutmeg.with mace,  of  fat  (see  Oleum  Myristica  Expressum),  some  starch,  protein 
compounds,  and  other  principles  of  no  medicinal  importance. 

Action  and  Uses. — Observation  and  experiment  agree  in  showing  that  nutmeg 
has  a narcotic  and  intoxicating  power.  A woman  took  1 pint  of  whiskey  in  which  an 
ounce  of  finely-powdered  nutmeg  was  mixed.  She  suffered  various  symptoms,  probably 
due  to  the  alcohol  in  the  draught.  It  is  stated  that  after  these  subsided  she  had  pain  in 
the  ovaries,  a leucorrhoeal  discharge,  and  sexual  excitement  ( Phila . Med.  Times , x.  438). 
In  this  case  the  intoxication  might  be  attributed  to  the  alcohol,  which  was  also  taken ; 
but  in  the  following  this  confusing  element  was  absent : “ A lady  ate  one  and  a half 
nutmegs  (about  135  grains).  Two  hours  afterward  she  became  drowsy,  and  remained 
so  nearly  an  hour.  This  was  followed  by  excitement  with  sharp  pain  in  the  head,  and 
then  involuntary  laughter,  wild  fancies,  and  incessant  talking,  without  loss  of  conscious- 
ness. Presently  pain  was  felt  in  the  region  of  the  heart,  with  cold  extremities  and  a 
depressing  sensation.  Her  face  was  very  pale  and  her  pulse  weak  and  thready.  These 
alarming  symptoms  lasted  more  than  an  hour”  (Palmer,  Amer.  Jour.  Phar .,  Ivii.  23). 
Very  similar  symptoms  were  presented  in  the  case  of  a pregnant  woman  who  took  five 
grated  nutmegs  at  one  dose.  She  suffered  headache,  giddiness,  itching,  flushing  and 
swelling  of  the  face  ; there  was  frequent  micturition  and  copious  perspiration  ; the  pupils 
were  contracted,  the  pulse  130  and  full ; there  was  also  nausea,  but  no  vomiting  or 
purging.  Collapse  followed,  with  pallor  and  rapid  pulse,  but  no  drowsiness  at  any  time. 
The  patient  recovered  ( Phila . Med.  Times,  xvii.  726).  A boy  three  years  old  ate  the 
greater  part  of  five  nutmegs.  He  was  comatose,  but  not  delirious,  and  urinated  twice. 
The  pupils  were  dilated.  He  also  recovered  (Med.  News,  lv.  408).  A boy  of  four  years 
ate  two  nutmegs ; he  became  comatose,  and  had  suppression  of  urine.  Death  took 
place  within  twenty-four  hours  ( Med . Record,  xxxii.  624).  These  cases  suffice  to  prove 
that  neither  the  symptoms  nor  the  issues  of  nutmeg-poisoning  are  uniform.  The  treat- 
ment of  poisoning  by  nutmeg  should  consist  of  stimulant  evacuants  (mustard)  and 
ammoniated  stimulants.  Nutmeg  is  but  little  used  as  a medicine,  except  for  flavoring  pur- 
poses, but  extensively  as  a condiment  to  qualify  the  action  of  oleraceous  vegetables, 
soups,  and  pastry.  It  may  be  given  in  cases  of  simple  debility  of  the  stomach  in  doses 
of  from  Gm.  0.30-1.30  (gr.  v-xx). 


MYR  OB  A LANUS. — MYRRH  A . 


1067 


MYROBALANUS. — Myrobalan. 

Myrobalans , E.,  F. ; Myrobalanen , G. ; Myrobalani , Sp. 

The  fruit  of  Terrainalia  (Myrobalanus,  Gsertner ) Chebula,  Retzius. 

Nat.  Ord. — Combretaceae. 

Origin. — A large  tree,  indigenous  to  India,  with  coriaceous  entire  leaves,  decandrous 
whitish  or  yellowish  racemose  flowers,  and  one-seeded  drupaceous  fruits  ; several  varieties 
are  known,  T.  citrina,  Roxburgh , being  one  of  them. 

Description. — Tile  ehebidic  myrobalans  are  2 to  4 Cm.  (1  to  II  inches)  long,  oblong 
or  ovoid  in  shape,  obtusely  five-  or  six-angled  and  ribbed,  yellowish-brown,  the  endocarp 
pale-brown  and  resinous-dotted,  and  contain  a white  seed.  The  yellow  myrobalans,  M. 
citrinse , are  externally  of  an  orange-  or  ochrey-yellow  color.  The  black  myrobalans  are 
the  shrivelled  unripe  fruits,  blackish,  brittle,  glossy  upon  the  fractured  surface,  and  con- 
tain a rudimentary  seed. 

Constituents. — The  astringent  taste  of  myrobalans  is  due  to  tannin  ; Stenhouse 
(1843)  found  in  the  first  variety  also  gallic  acid,  muilage,  and  brown-yellow  color.  The 
last  variety  contains  notable  quantities  of  sugar.  According  to  Hennig  (1869),  myro- 
balans yield  about  45  per  cent,  of  tannin.  This  is  a mixture  of  two  tannins  (Zoelffel, 
1891),  of  which  one  yields  gallic , and  the  other  ellagic  acid.  Both  decomposition  prod- 
ucts were  observed  by  Fridolin  (1884),  who  also  isolated  chebidinic  acid , C28H24O10,  which 
crystallizes  in  colorless  sweet  prisms,  and  by  heating  with  water  in  a closed  tube  splits 
into  gallic  acid  and  a tannin.  The  myrobalanin  of  Apery  (1887),  obtained  from  black 
myrobalans,  appears  to  be  the  ethereal  extract.  The  seeds  contain  fixed  oil. 

Allied  Plants  and  Products. — Terminalia  bellerica,  Roxburgh , yields  the  belleric  myrobalans, 
which  are  of  about  the  size  of  a nutmeg,  subglobular,  and  contracted  into  a short  stalk,  reddish- 
brown,  tomentose,  and  contain  a hard  pentagonal  putamen. 

Other  species  of  Terminalia  yield  barks,  which  in  tropical  countries  are  employed  for  their 
astringent  properties  and  in  tanning. 

Phyllanthus  Emblica,  Linn6  (Emblica  officinalis,  Gcertner ),  a euphorbiaceous  tree  of  India, 
yields  emblic  myrobalans , which  are  drupaceous,  subglobular,  six-grooved,  and  three-celled,  eaeh 
cell  containing  two  small  brown-red  glossy  seeds. 

Action  and  Uses. — These  fruits  were  once  held  in  high  esteem  as  medicines 
{Paulus  jEgineta  (Adams),  iii.  440).  Pliny  speaks  of  one  species  as  an  astringent 
in  diarrhoea  and  menorrhagia  and  as  a vulnerary.  The  Arabian  physicians  abound  in 
their  praise.  Some  species  appear  to  have  been  cholagogue  and  others  astringent.  Rhazes 
declares  that  they  act  as  emetics  and  cathartics,  purge  away  the  excrement,  remove  humid- 
ity, strengthen  the  senses  and  the  understanding,  and  are  useful  in  cutaneous  eruptions, 
colic,  mental  debility,  obstinate  fevers,  headache,  dropsy,  and  splenic  disorders.  Mesue 
embellishes  this  statement  by  adding,  among  other  things,  “ that  they  restore  youth, 
improve  the  complexion,  the  breath,  and  the  perspiration,  impart  joy  and  hilarity,”  etc. 
They  continued  to  be  used  by  European  physicians  as  late  as  the  last  century.  In  1887 
attention  was  recalled  to  this  ancient  medicine  by  M.  Apery  of  Constantinople  {Bull,  et 
Mem.  Soc.  therap .,  1887,  p.  237),  who  pointed  out  their  possession  at  once  of  purgative 
and  astringent  qualities,  in  which  respect  they  resemble  rhubarb,  and  also  in  the  former 
action  being  destroyed  by  heat.  They  have  a styptic  and  acidulous  taste,  and  color  the 
saliva  green.  Their  astringency  depends  on  the  large  proportion  of  tannin  they  contain, 
which  is  qualified  by  the  resin  myrobalanin.  The  observations  above  referred  to  were 
made  in  the  treatment  of  diarrhoea  and  dysentery , especially  in  their  chronic  forms.  The 
dose  is  stated  at  Gm.  0.25  (4  or  5 grs.),  which  should  be  given  at  appropriate  intervals 
from  four  to  twelve  times  a day.  It  may  be  administered  in  pill  or  in  powder  enclosed 
in  a wafer. 

MYRRHA,  U.  Br.,  B.  G.— Myrrh. 

Gummi-resina  myrrha. — Myrrhc,  Fr.  Cod.,  G. ; Mirra,  Sp. 

A gum -resinous  exudation  from  Commiphora  Balsamodendron  ( Nees ) Myrrha,  Bugler; 
Berg  and  Schmidt,  Off.  Gew.,  t.  29 ; Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  59. 

Nat.  Ord. — Burseraceae. 

Origin. — Myrrh  exudes  spontaneously  from  large  shrubs  or  small  trees,  growing  in 
the  Somali  country  and  in  south-western  Arabia,  and  is  collected  by  the  Somalis,  who 
cross  the  Gulf  of  Aden  for  the  purpose ; but  the  principal  supply  of  myrrh  comes  from 
Eastern  Africa,  from  the  country  of  the  Somalis.  The  plant  was  collected  by  Ehrenberg 


1068 


MYRRH  A. 


(1820-26)  in  Arabia,  and  a second  species  found  in  Africa  was  subsequently  named  Bals. 
Ehrenbergianum,  Berg , but  is  by  Oliver  and  Bentley  considered  identical  with  B.  Opo- 
balsainum,  Kunth , which  grows  northward  into  Abyssinia,  and  is  the  source  of  balm  of 
Gilead  (see  below).  Formerly,  myrrh  entered  commerce  through  Egypt  and  the  ports  of 
the  Levant,  hence  the  term  Turkey  myrrh  ; at  present  it  is  mostly  taken  from  Aden  and 
Berbera  to  Bombay,  where  it  is  assorted  before  being  shipped  to  Europe  and  America. 
From  the  observations  of  Marchand  (1866),  it  seems  to  be  chiefly  produced  in  the  bark 
and  to  a small  extent  in  the  pith.  About  20,000  pounds  of  myrrh  are  imported  into  the 
United  States. 

Description. — Myrrh  is  in  roundish  or  irregular  tears,  or  in  larger  masses  having  an 
uneven  surface  of  a lighter  or  darker  reddish-brown  color  and  dull  musty  appearance. 
These  break  readily  with  an  uneven  somewhat  splintery  fracture,  which  is  of  a waxy 
lustre,  apparently  fatty  to  the  touch,  often  marked  with  semicircular  whitish  lines  of  a 
brownish-yellow  or  reddish  color,  and  translucent,  at  least  when  in  thin  layers.  In  cold 
weather  myrrh  may  be  readily  powdered,  but  in  warm  weather  it  cannot  be  reduced  to  a 
fine  powder  until  after  it  has  been  well  dried  and  deprived  of  some  volatile  oil.  When 
triturated  with  water  it  yields  a brown  yellow  emulsion.  Alcohol  dissolves  it  partly, 
leaving  the  gum  behind  and  yielding  a brownish-yellow  tincture,  which  acquires  a purple 
tint  with  nitric  acid.  The  alcoholic  extract  dissolved  in  ether  acquires  a red  or  violet 
color  in  the  presence  of  bromine  vapor.  Myrrh  has  a peculiar  rather  agreeable  odor  and 
an  aromatic,  acrid,  and  bitter *taste. 

“ Dark-colored  pieces,  the  alcoholic  solution  of  which  is  not  rendered  purple  by  nitric 
acid,  and  pieces  of  gum  which  dissolve  completely,  as  well  as  those  which  nearly  swell  in 
water,  should  be  rejected.” — U.  S. 

Other  Varieties  of  Myrrh. — According  to  Vaughan  (1853),  there  are  two  other  varieties  of 
myrrh  found  in  the  Arabian  commerce  at  Aden — one  called  by  Arabs  rawr,  or  by  the  Somalis 
mulmul , also  known  as  heera  bul , by  which  names  African  myrrh  is  likewise  known  ; it  resembles 
the  latter  in  all  sensible  properties,  and  is  considered  identical  with  it,  although  it  is  usually  upon 
the  fractured  surface  destitute  of  the  whitish  lines  and  dissolves  in  alcohol,  sometimes  to  the  extent 
of  25  per  cent.  The  other  variety  is  known  as  bissa  bul , or  by  the  Somalis  as  hebbakhade.  Han- 
bury  (1853)  states  that  it  is  the  Myrrha  indica  of  Martigny,  and  was  formerly,  but  is  not  now, 
distinguished  in  commerce  as  Indian  myrrh ; it  has  the  appearance  of  an  inferior  dark-colored 
myrrh,  and  is  chiefly  distinguishable  by  its  different  odor,  which  is  likened  to  that  of  mushrooms. 

Admixtures. — Myrrh  is  not  unfrequently  mixed  with  dark-colored  pieces  of  various 
gums,  some  of  which  merely  swell  with  water,  and  with  East  India  bdellium.  The  latter 
is  referred  to  Balsamodendron  (Balsamea,  Engler ) Mukul,  Hooker , and,  according  to  Dymock 
(1876),  a similar  exudation  is  yielded  by  B.  lloxburghii,  both  species  indigenous  to  India, 
but  perhaps  also  growing  in  Southern  Arabia.  It  is  in  large  pieces,  rounded  and  dusty  on 
the  surface,  breaks  with  a flat  conchoidal  fracture,  has  a dark  sometimes  blackish-brown 
color,  is  translucent  in  thin  layers,  and  has  an  odor  somewhat  resembling  myrrh ; its 
tincture  does  not  acquire  a purplish  color  on  the  addition  of  nitric  acid. 

Constituents  and  Tests. — Myrrh  contains  a small  quantity  of  volatile  oil  which 
may  reach  2 or  21  per  cent.,  from  25  to  40  per  cent,  of  resin,  40  to  65  (or  in  Arabian 
myrrh  75)  per  cent,  of  gum,  and  yields  about  31  per  cent,  of  ash,  mostly  CaC03.  Oil 
of  myrrh  is  a pale-yellow,  thick  liquid,  of  specific  gravity  0.98,  but,  according  to 
Brandes  (1819),  sometimes  heavier  than  water.  The  variable  yield  is  explained  by  Bley 
and  Diesel  (1845)  by  oxidation,  whereby,  among  other  products,  formic  acid  is  formed. 
From  the  same  cause,  probably,  the  composition  may  vary : Kuickholdt  (1845)  obtained 
results  leading  to  the  formula  C10HuO,  which  would  make  it  isomeric  with  thymol  and 
carvol ; Heldt  (1847)  found  C22H3202  ; Buri  ( Pharmacographia ) obtained  C22H320.  Dis- 
solved in  carbon  disulphide,  the  oil  gradually  assumes  a permanent  violet  or  blue  color 
after  the  addition  of  nitric  acid  or  bromine.  The  resin  is  entirely  soluble  in  alcohol, 
ether,  and  chloroform.  Hager  (1865)  found  it  only  partly  soluble  in  carbon  disulphide, 
the  soluble  portion  acquiring  a violet  color  with  nitric  acid  and  with  bromine.  Hydro- 
chloric acid  produces  the  same  color  with  the  resin,  after  previously  moistening  it  with 
alcohol.  The  bitter  principle,  according  to  Flitckiger,  is  sparingly  soluble  in  water, 
partly  soluble  in  carbon  disulphide,  soluble  in  ether  and  in  alcohol,  and  from  the  latter 
solution  precipitated  by  lead  acetate  ; its  alkaline  solution  reduces  Fehling’s  test-liquid 
and  precipitates  floccules  on  the  addition  of  acids.  The  gum  consists,  according  to 
Hekemeijer  (1858),  of  two  kinds — one  being  precipitated  by  neutral,  the  other  by  basic 
lead  acetate.  Shuttleworth  (1871)  recommends  it  as  making  a good  paste  of  unlimited 
keeping  qualities;  its  adhesiveness  is  increased  by  the  addition  of  a little  molasses. 


MYRTUS. 


1069 


Myrrh  melts  together  with  caustic  potassa  with  some  difficulty  ; Hlasiwetz  and  Barth 
(1866)  found  among  the  products  protocatechuic  acid  and  a little  pyrocatechin. 

Allied  Drugs. — Balsamum  gileadense,  Balm  of  Gilead , Meccabalsam,  or  Opobalsamum , though 
differing  greatly  from  myrrh,  is  referred  to  Balsamodendron  Opobalsamum,  Kunth.  It  is  said  to 
exude  spontaneously,  and  is  an  opaque  yellowish  or  whitish,  fragrant,  viscid  liquid,  in  which 
Trommsdorff  found  30  per  cent,  of  volatile  oil  and  64  per  cent,  of  hard  resin,  while  Bonastre 
obtained  only  10  per  cent,  of  volatile  oil,  70  per  cent,  of  adhesive,  and  12  of  hard  resin.  It  is  at 
present  rarely,  if  ever,  met  with  in  our  commerce. 

Bdellium.  Indian  bdellium  is  described  above.  African  bdellium  is  the  exudation  of  Bal- 
samodendron (Balsamea,  Bugler;  lleudelotia,  Richard)  africanum,  Arnott . a shrub  indigenous 
to  West  Africa,  and  is  used  in  France  chiefly  as  an  addition  to  some  plasters.  It  is  met  with 
in  irregular  roundish  or  oval  tears,  and  varying  in  color  from  pale  yellowish  to  brown-red.  It 
is  translucent,  breaks  with  a waxy  fracture,  and  resembles  myrrh  in  odor  and  taste,  but  its  tinct- 
ure does  not  become  purple  on  the  addition  of  nitric  acid. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparation. — Extractum  myrrh^e,  Extract  of  myrrh,  made 
with  cold  distilled  water,  contains  chiefly  gummy  matter  and  the  bitter  principle. 

Action  and  Uses. — Myrrh  is  both  stimulant  and  tonic.  In  small  doses  it  appears 
to  quicken  the  appetite  and  digestion  ; in  larger  doses  it  irritates  the  stomach,  occasion- 
ing nausea,  and  even  vomiting  and  diarrhoea,  quickening  the  pulse,  stimulating  the 
bronchial  mucous  membrane,  and  probably  exerting  a special  influence  of  the  same  sort 
upon  the  uterine  system.  It  has  been  found  useful  in  atonic  dyspepsia  with  flatulence, 
mucous  evacuations,  constipation,  and  associated  nervous  disorders  of  a hysterical  or 
hypochondriacal  description.  In  such  affections  it  is  profitably  combined  with  vegetable 
bitters  and  iron.  The  compound  iron  mixture  is  a valuable  preparation  of  this  nature 
which  is  extensively  employed  in  amenorrhoea  connected  with  anaemia  and  general  torpor 
of  the  functions.  In  like  manner  it  may  be  employed  in  chronic  uterine  and  vaginal 
leucorrhcea.  Myrrh  is  especially  useful  in  chronic  bronchitis  with  profuse  expectoration, 
but  if  fever  is  present  its  dose  should  at  first  be  small.  In  ancient  times  it  was  much 
used  as  a vulnerary  to  promote  the  healing  of  wounds , ulcers , etc.  of  an  indolent  type. 
Its  stimulant  and  astringent  qualities  are  manifested  in  cases  of  spongy  and  ulcerated 
gums.  Its  dose  is  from  Gm.  0.30-2  (gr.  v— xv),  but  it  is  seldom  used  in  substance.  It 
may  be  prescribed  in  emulsion  as  an  enema. 

Balm  of  Gilead  and  Indian  bdellium  are  both  obsolete  in  Western  medicine.  The 
former  was  once  famous  as  a vulnerary,  and  more  recently  entered  into  a stimulant 
balsamic  application  for  gout ; the  latter  was,  besides,  in  great  repute  as  an  expectorant 
and  emmenagogue. 


MYRTUS.— Myrtle. 

Myrte , Fr.,  G. 

Myrtus  communis,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Myrtaceae. 

Origin  and  Description. — The  myrtle  is  a shrub  or  small  tree  inhabiting  the 
countries  near  the  Mediterranean,  and  frequently  cultivated.  It  has  a dark  grayish- 
brown,  fissured,  astringent  bark,  and  opposite,  smooth  and  glossy,  entire  leaves,  varying 
in  length  from  \ inch  to  2 inches  (12-50  Mm.),  and  in  shape  from  ovate  to  linear-lance- 
olate and  mucronate ; they  are  on  very  short  petioles,  arc  densely  pellucid-punctate,  and 
bear  in  their  axils  a white  or  light-pinkish  flower  with  numerous  stamens.  The  fruit  is  a 
roundish-oval  or  subglobular,  fleshy,  bluish-black  berry  of  the  size  of  a pea,  with  two 
cells,  each  containing  four  or  five  whitish  kidney-shaped  seeds.  The  leaves,  flowers,  and 
fruit  have  a very  agreeable  odor. 

Constituents. — Kiegel  (1849)  obtained  from  the  ripe  berries  volatile  oil,  resin,  tan- 
nin, citric  acid,  malic  acid,  sugar,  etc.  llaybaud  (1834)  found  the  volatile  oil,  as  dis- 
tilled from  the  leaves,  flowers,  and  fruit,  to  have  a yellowish  or  greenish-yellow  color,  and 
to  be  lighter  than  water.  Gladstone  (1863)  ascertained  it  to  have  the  specific  gravity 
.891,  to  be  dextrogyre,  and  to  consist  mostly  of  a hydrocarbon,  C10H,6,  boiling  between 
160°  and  170°  C.  (E.  Jahns,  1889).  The  bitter  principle  has  not  been  investigated. 

The  fragrant  water  distilled  from  the  flowers  and  leaves  is  known  in  France  as  eau 
(Range. 

Allied  Plants. — Myrtus  Arragon,  Kunth , is  used  in  Mexico  in  place  of  the  preceding. 

Myrtus  Chekan,  Sprengel , s.  Eugenia  Cheken,  Molina , is  a shrub  with  a rough  brown 
astringent  bark,  and  indigenous  to  Chili,  where  it  is  known  as  cheken , chekan , or  chequen.  The 
leaves  are  collected  with  the  brown-gray  branches,  and  are  nearly  sessile,  about  2 Cm.  (£  inch) 


1070 


MYRTUS. 


long,  oval-lanceolate  or  elliptic,  somewhat  revolute  on  the  margin,  rather  light-green,  smooth, 
delicately  feather-veined,  and  dotted  with  minute  oil-glands  ; they  have  a slight  aromatic  odor 
and  an  aromatic,  pungent,  and  slightly  hitter  taste.  C.  H.  Hutchinson  (1879)  found  tannin  and 
volatile  oil,  but  no  alkaloid.  J.  Hohn  (1882)  obtained  4.2  per  cent,  of  tannin  and  indications  of 
the  presence  of  a glucoside.  J.  W.  England  (1883)  isolated  from  the  distillate  with  potassa  small 
white  crystals,  which  he  believes  to  be  the  acetate  of  a volatile  alkaloid,  chekenine ; this  supposed 
salt  is  insoluble  in  ether,  soluble  in  alcohol  and  water,  not  precipitated  by  iodine  or  by  Mayer’s 
solution,  has  a feeble  bitter  taste,  and  with  nitric  acid  and  potassium  ferrocyanide  gives  a green 
color.  The  leaves  yield  from  2 to  4 per  cent,  of  volatile  oil  and  from  8 to  10  per  cent,  of  ash. 
Mr.  England  proposed  for  th z fluid  extract  of  cheken  a menstruum  composed  of  3 parts  of  alcohol 
and  1 part  of  water. 

Psidium  pyriferum,  Linne , and  Ps.  pomiferum,  Linnt,  are  small  trees  of  the  West  Indies  and 
other  tropical  countries,  having  an  astringent  bark,  aromatic  and  astringent  leaves,  and  fragrant 
flowers.  The  acidulous  fruit  is  known  as  guava  ( guayaba , Sp.),  and  is  used  in  the  form  of  jelly, 
marmalade,  etc.  F.  L.  Bertrand  (1888)  obtained  from  the  bark  and  leaves  a resinous  principle, 
guavin , which  is  said  to  possess  febrifuge  properties. 

Jambosa  vulgaris,  De  Candolle  (Eugenia  Jambos,  Linn6),  and  J.  malaccensis,  De  Candolle , 
are  larger  East  Indian  trees,  of  which  the  flowers,  leaves,  and  bark  are  employed.  The  fruit, 
known  as  rose-apple , has  an  acidulous  rose-like  flavor. 

Action  and  Uses. — It  is  remarkable  that  a plant  which  was  formerly  used  for  so 
many  medicinal  purposes  should  have  become  almost  obsolete  as  a medicine,  In  1876 
attention  was  directed  toward  it  by  Delioux  de  Savignac,  from  whose  essay  the  following 
particulars  are  taken  : He  used  the  infusion  of  the  leaves  or  a dilution  of  the  tincture  as 
an  injection  in  leucorrhoea  and  prolapsus  of  the  uterus.  Its  agreeable  odor  renders  it  more 
acceptable  than  other  analogous  preparations  to  delicate  women,  and,  besides  arresting  the 
discharge,  it  renders  firm  the  parts  to  which  it  is  applied.  A fine  powder  prepared  with 
the  dried  leaves  was  applied  on  tampons  of  cotton  wadding  with  excellent  results  in  cases 
of  ulcers  of  the  uterus , especially  when  the  cotton  was  previously  moistened  with  glycerin. 
The  same  powder  was  used  with  striking  advantage  as  a dressing  for  recent  and  suppur- 
ating wounds  and  ulcers , for  eczema  and  intertrigo , and  was  confined  by  carded  cotton  and 
a bandage.  The  infusion  of  the  fruit  or  of  the  leaves  was  found  equally  efficacious  in 
similar  cases,  and  as  a lotion  for  sinuses  and  other  ulcers  not  readily  accessible  to  the 
powder.  Where  fetid  discharges  or  a tendency  to  gangrene  existed,  myrtle  wine  was 
used  to  destroy  the  fetor  and  promote  granulation  and  the  cure.  It  was  also  injected 
with  excellent  results  into  deep,  suppurating  sinuses.  The  essential  oil  and  its  alcoholic 
solution  appear  not  to  possess  to  an  equal  degree  the  anaesthetic  properties  of  oil  of 
peppermint,  etc.,  but  they  nevertheless  are  somewhat  anodyne. 

In  catarrhal  affections  of  the  kidneys  and  bladder  powder  of  myrtle-leaves  is  recom- 
mended in  doses  of  from  Gm.  1-4  (gr.  xv— lx),  and  the  same  prescription  is  stated  to 
lessen  the  colliquative  sweats  of  phthisis.  The  infusion  would  be  more  suitable  in  such 
cases,  but  its  taste  is  repugnant  to  most  patients.  It  is  more  applicable  to  the  treatment 
of  dysentery  by  enema.  The  powder,  given  to  the  extent  of  Gm.  1-2  (gr.  xv-xxx)  a day, 
was  used  with  great  benefit  in  menorrhagia.  The  author  whom  we  cite  recommends  the 
infusion  as  a collyrium  in  conjunctivitis , as  a gargle  in  various  forms  of  pharyngitis , and 
to  be  used  like  rhatany  in  the  treatment  of  hsemorrhoids  For  the  last-mentioned  purpose 
he  also  found  it  remarkably  useful  when  given  internally  with  Venice  turpentine  in  a 
bolus.  Finally,  the  infusion  was  of  service  in  chronic  bronchitis.  The  essential  oil  is, 
however,  more  efficient.  Linarix  ( These , 1878;  Brit.  Med.  Jour.,  Apr.  10,  1890)  attri- 
buted to  it  antiseptic  virtues,  and  claimed  that  it  was  a stimulant  of  the  digestive, 
pulmonary,  and  urinary  organs.  This  judgment  has  been  confirmed  by  Eiclihorst,  who 
was  impressed  by  its  prompt  and  complete  disinfecting  action  in  gangrene  of  the  lung  and 
foetid  bronchitis , as  well  as  by  its  rapidly  curative  power  in  these  diseases.  He  exhibited 
it  in  capsules,  each  containing  about  Gm.  0.12  (gr.  ij)  of  the  oil,  and  of  these  prescribed 
two  or  three  every  two  hours  ( Therap . Monatsheft .,  iii.  22). 

An  infusion  of  myrtle  for  topical  use  may  be  prepared  with  Gm.  8-16  (^ij-iv)  of  the 
leaves  to  a pint  of  water ; for  internal  administration  it  should  be  diluted.  An  infu- 
sion of  the  berries  may  be  made  with  similar  proportions  for  internal  as  well  as  external 
administration.  The  finely-powdered  and  sifted  leaves  may  be  prescribed  in  doses  of  Gm. 
1-2  (gr.  xv-xxx).  An  infusion  of  the  bark  may  be  prepared  with  Gm.  32—64  (§i-ij) 
in  Gm.  250  (half  a pint)  of  water.  The  essential  oil  has  also  been  used  in  the  catarrhal 
affections  above  mentioned.  It  is  best  administered  in  capsules  containing  4 or  5 drops 
of  the  oil. 

Cheken , or  chequen,  is  represented  by  Murrell  ( Practitioner , xxiv.  321)  to  be  an  effica- 
cious remedy  for  mucous  profluvia  of  the  air-passages  and  the  urinary  tract.  A fluid 


NAPHTA  LINUM. 


1071 


extract  of  it  was  given  in  doses  of  a teaspoonful  three  or  four  times  a day.  These  state- 
ments have  failed  of  confirmation  by  Gottheil  ( Med . Record,  xxiv.  258). 

NAPHTALINUM,  V.  S.,  JP.  G.— Naphtalin. 

Naphtalene,  Naphthalin,  E. ; Naphthaline , Naphthalene , Fr. ; Naphthalin,  G. 

Formula  Ci0H8.  Molecular  weight  127.7. 

A hydrocarbon  obtained  from  coal-tar. 

Origin. — Naphtalene  was  discovered  by  Garden  (1820)  in  coal-tar  oil,  and  recognized 
by  Reichenbach  as  resulting  from  the  decomposition  of  the  products  of  distillation  of 
coal.  It  has  since  been  obtained  from  a large  number  of  organic  bodies,  particularly  if 
the  distillation-products  are  conducted  through  a red-hot  tube,  and  is  a constituent  of  the 
petroleum  of  Burmah. 

Preparation. — The  fraction  of  coal-tar  oil  collected  during  the  distillation  of  coal 
tar,  between  180°-250°  C.  (356°-482°  F.)  gradually  deposits  a dark  crystalline  substance, 
which  consists  chiefly  of  impure  naphtalene.  By  treatment  successively  with  sodium 
hydroxide  solution  and  sulphuric  acid  certain  acid  and  basic  by-products  (phenols,  aniline, 
etc.)  are  removed,  and  the  residue  after  distillation  in  the  presence  of  steam,  is  further 
purified  by  repeatedly  heating  with  concentrated  sulphuric  acid  to  188°  C.  (356°  F.)  and 
redistilling.  Finally,  a white  product  is  obtained  which  is  practically  pure  naphtalene, 
but  has  a tendency  to  darken  when  exposed  to  air  and  light,  owing  to  slight  contamina- 
tion with  some  remaining  phenols ; to  remove  these  the  oxidizing  effect  of  a mixture  of 
sulphuric  acid  and  manganese  dioxide  is  resorted  to  for  fifteen  or  twenty  minutes  at  a 
water-bath  heat,  and  the  mixture  is  then  washed  with  water  and  sodium  hydroxide,  and 
finally  resublimed. 

Naphtalene  recrystallized  from  alcohol  should  alone  be  used  for  pharmaceutical  pur- 
poses, and  should  be  kept  in  well-stoppered  bottles. 

Properties  and  Tests. — On  dissolving  naphtalene  and  picric  acid  together  in  hot 
alcohol  the  two  unite,  forming  on  cooling  golden-yellow  needles  having  the  composition 
C,0H8.C6H.2(NO2)3OH,  and  yielding  all  the  picric  acid  to  ammonia.  Naphtalene  yields 
with  chlorine  and  bromine  numerous  products  of  addition  and  substitution  and  with  sul- 
phuric acid  well-defined  sulpho-acids.  When  treated  with  strong  nitric  acid,  nitronaph- 
talenes  are  generated,  which  by  the  action  of  reducing  agents  are  converted  into  naphtyl- 
amine , C10H7.NH2,  which  is  crystallizable,  turns  red  in  the  air,  and  the  salts  of  which 
yield  blue,  and  finally  purple-colored,  precipitates  with  ferric  chloride,  chromic  acid,  and 
other  oxidizing  agents.  By  means  of  diluted  nitric  acid  it  is  converted  into  phtalic  acid, 
C8H604.  “ Colorless,  shining,  transparent  laminae,  having  a strong,  characteristic  odor 

resembling  that  of  coal-tar,  and  a burning  aromatic  taste ; slowly  volatilized  on  exposure 
to  air.  Insoluble  in  water,  but  when  boiled  with  the.  latter,  imparting  to  it  a faint  odor 
and  taste.  Soluble  in  15  parts  of  alcohol  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  and  very  soluble  in  boiling 
alcohol ; also  very  soluble  in  ether,  chloroform,  carbon  disulphide,  fixed  and  volatile  oils. 
Naphtalene  volatilizes  slowly  even  at  the  ordinary  temperature  ; rapidly  when  heated.  It 
also  volatilizes  with  the  vapors  of  water  or  alcohol.  At  80°  C.  (176°  F.)  it  melts,  and  at 
218°  C.  (424.4°  F.)  it  boils.  Its  vapor  is  inflammable,  burning  with  a luminous  and 
smoky  flame.  When  ignited,  it  is  consumed,  leaving  no  residue.  Naphtalene  is  neutra\ 
to  litmus-paper  moistened  with  alcohol.  On  shaking  a small  portion  of  naphtalene  with 
concentrated  sulphuric  acid,  the  acid  should  remain  colorless ; nor  should  it  acquire  more 
than  a pale  reddish  tint,  if  the  mixture  be  heated  for  five  minutes  in  a water-bath  (absence 
of  contaminations  derived  from  coal-tar).” — U.  S. 

Action  and  Uses. — Applied  to  the  tongue,  naphthalin  gradually  develops  a strong, 
acrid,  burning  taste  in  the  mouth  and  throat  and  the  expectoration  of  ropy  or  frothy 
sputa  (Dupasquier,  1842-43).  On  the  sound  skin  it  produces  no  irritation,  but  it  causes 
smarting  and  burning  on  raw  surfaces,  although  it  does  not  inflame  them,  and  it  arrests 
the  decomposition  of  their  secretions  : 20  grains  of  it  mixed  with  8 ounces  of  urine  have 
preserved  the  liquid  unchanged  for  three  weeks.  It  is  found  to  destroy  animal  and  vege- 
table parasites.  Much  has  been  said  of  its  insolubility,  but  taken  internally  it  turns  the 
urine  of  a dark  color,  and  doses  of  15  grains  daily  have  occasioned  frequent  micturition 
with  burning  pain,  vesical  tenesmus,  and  redness  of  the  urethral  orifice.  Purdy  states 
that  in  certain  cases  of  genito-urinary  disease  he  has  known  a dose  of  5 grains  to  cause 
severe  suffering  along  the  whole  urinary  tract  {Jour.  Amer.  Med.  Assoc.,  vii.  504).  The 
urine  voided  is  not  stated  to  be  albuminous.  Used  in  cases  of  infantile  diarrhoea,  it  has 
produced  a tendency  to  collapse,  with  sallowness  of  the  face,  which  ceased  upon  the  sus- 


1072 


NAPHTOL. 


pension  of  the  medicine.  These  poisonous  effects  of  naphthalin  directly  contradict  the 
statement  of  Rossbach,  that  it  may  be  given  for  weeks  together  to  the  extent  of  75 
grains  a day  without  injury  of  any  sort,  and  that  it  is  very  slightly  absorbable  ( Berlin . 
klin.  Wochenschr.,  No.  42,  1884).  It  has  been  employed  with  reputed  advantage  in 
whooping  cough  (in  the  form  of  vapor),  and  also  in  chronic  bronchitis  and  bronchorrhoca , 
particularly  as  they  occur  in  advanced  life.  In  other  Words,  its  operation  in  these  affec- 
tions resembles  that  of  the  terebinthinate  and  balsamic  medicines.  Although  the  claims 
made  by  Rossbach  for  the  virtues  of  this  medicine  in  diarrhoea  have  not  been  substan- 
tiated, it  would  seem  to  be  useful  in  various  forms  of  the  disorder,  especially  in  such  as 
are  directly  due  to  intestinal  irritation,  caused  by  fermentation  of  the  food,  in  summer 
diarrhoea,  by  ulcers  of  the  intestine  in  typhoid  fever,  and  dysentery,  etc.  The  com- 
parative insolubility  of  naphthalin  is  regarded  as  an  advantage  in  these  affections, 
but  especially  in  the  chronic  forms  of  bowel  complaint.  The  doses  which  have  been 
regarded  as  efficient  have  varied  from  Gm.  1 to  Gm.  4 (gr.  xv-lx)  a day,  and  were 
given  in  gelatin  capsules.  In  1885,  Gotze  attributed  to  it  the  power  of  shortening  the 
duration  of  typhoid  fever  and  ameliorating  all  of  its  symptoms,  as  well  as  reducing  its 
mortality  ( Zeitsch . f.  klin.  Med.,  ix.  71).  Neither  more  nor  less  than  the  antipyretics 
proper  has  naphthalin  accomplished  this  object.  Fischer  ( Times  and  Gazette , Dec.  1881, 
p.  718)  was  one  of  the  first  to  state  that  naphthalin  is  a powerful  antiseptic,  preventing 
putrefaction  and  correcting  the  putrid  exhalations  from  wounds , ulcers,  and  mucous  canals, 
without  irritating  the  exposed  tissues  or  exciting  eczema  in  the  surrounding  skin.  It 
stains  neither  the  skin  nor  the  linen,  and  is  said  to  have  no  unpleasant  smell  of  its  own, 
but  after  remaining  for  a while  upon  the  skin  it  exhales  a peculiar,  but  not  a very  strong, 
odor.  In  the  main,  experience  has  confirmed  these  statements.  Continued  application  of 
it  to  raw  surfaces  or  to  mucous  membranes,  or  to  the  skin  by  friction,  is  sometimes 
followed  by  irritation  in  the  urinary  passages,  and  even  by  hsematuria  (Ftirbinger  Bull, 
de  Therap .,  ciii.  47).  Djankonow  states  that  a solution  of  1 part  of  naphthalin  in  4 parts 
each  of  alcohol  and  ether,  when  applied  to  foul  and  indolent  ulcers  and  wounds,  causes  ! 
them  to  granulate  and  cicatrize  rapidly  {Amer.  Jour,  of  Med.  Sci.,  Jan.  1883,  p.  247). 
Although  condemned  by  Fronmiiller  as  liable  to  excite  eczema,  the  disease  in  which  !| 
naphthalin  has  been  found  most  useful  is  scabies.  Its  use  was  first  suggested  by  the  fact  J 
that  furriers  employed  it  to  protect  their  goods  from  insects.  Kaposi  recommends  for 
this  affection  the  following  ointment:  R.  Naphthalin,  15  parts;  lard,  100;  green  soap, 

50  ; powdered  chalk,  40.  Except  in  aggravated  cases,  a single  thorough  friction  is 
declared  to  be  sufficient  for  the  cure.  In  severer  cases  two  frictions  suffice.  After 
friction  the  patient  is  made  to  lie  between  blankets  for  several  hours  ( Centralblatt  f.  d.  j 
gesammfe  Ther.,  i.  69).  The  same  dermatologist  strongly  commends  the  use  of  a 5 per  ; 
cent,  ointment  of  naphthalin  in  prurigo  as  the  most  efficient  remedy  for  that  distress-  \ 
ing  affection.  It  certainly  does  not  cure  the  disease  radically,  for  prurigo  is  an  outward 
expression  of  a constitutional  disorder.  In  eczema,  psoriasis  (Emery,  1842),  tinea  ton- 
surans, and  various  other  cutaneous  diseases  in  which  it  has  been  employed  this  f 
preparation  is  of  very  subordinate  efficiency.  Dissolved  in  alcohol,  it  serves  as  a sub- 
stitute for  tincture  of  camphor  in  treating  sprains,  contusions,  etc.  It  has  been  administered 
internally  for  intestinal  worms.  The  dose  is  Gm.  0.50-2  (gr.  viii.-xxx)  given  in  some 
aromatic  and  alcoholic  vehicle.  An  ointment  is  made  with  Gm.  1.60  to  Gm.  32  (gr. 
xxv.  in  £j). 

Fluorescein  and  Fluorescin  in  solution  are  used  for  coloring  lesions  of  the  cornea, 
and  thereby  rendering  them  more  visible,  and  for  testing  the  permeability  of  strictures 
of  the  nasal  duct.  They  are  not  irritating  {Jour.  Amer.  Med.  Assoc.,  xvii.  462).  The 
solution  recommended  consists  of  water  Gm.  32  (gj),  sodium  bicarbonate,  Gm.  0.50  (gr. 
vij),  fluorescein,  Gm.  0.66  (gr.  x). 

NAPHTOL,  U.  S. — Naphtol. 

Naphtholum,  P.  G.  ; Naphthol,  Beta- Naphtol,  / 3- Naphtol , Iso-Naphtol. 

Formula  C10H7OH.  Molecular  weight  143.66. 

A phenol  occurring  in  coal-tar,  but  usually  prepared  artificially  from  naphtalene.  It 
should  be  preserved  in  dark  amber-colored,  well-stoppered  bottles. 

Naphtol  was  first  prepared  by  Schaffer  (1869)  by  fusing  beta-naphtalene  sulphonic 
acid  with  potassa,  and  later  on  (1876)  by  Liebermann  by  action  of  nitrous  acid  on  beta- 
naphtylamine. 

Preparation- — Concentrated  sulphuric  acid  is  allowed  to  act  on  naphtalene  for 


NAPHTOL. 


1073 

several  hours  at  a temperature  of  200°  C.  (392°  F.),  whereby  /?.-naphtalene  sulphonic 
acid  is  formed  (C10H7.HSO3)  ; during  the  early  stage  of  the  process,  and  particularly 
at  80°-90°  C.  (176°-194°  F.),  much  alpha  acid  is  produced,  but  at  a higher  heat  this 
is  converted  into  the  beta  variety.  The  acid  is  next  dissolved  in  water,  saturated  with 
milk  of  lime,  and  the  resulting  calcium  salt  separated  by  crystallization  ; this  is  redis- 
solved in  water  and  decomposed  by  sodium  carbonate  yielding  sodium  naphtalene-sul- 
phonate,  C10H7SO3Na.  The  sodium-salt  is  next  added  to  fused  sodium  hydroxide,  and 
thus  sodium-naphtol,  C10H7ONa,  and  sodium  sulphite,  Na2S03,  are  obtained  ; the  former 
is  treated  with  hydrochloric  acid,  yielding  naphtol  and  sodium  chloride.  Beta-naphtol 
thus  obtained  is  purified  by  sublimation  and  final  recrystallization  from  hot  water  or 
benzin  (petroleum  ether).  Medicinal  naphtol  should  be  from  alpha-naphtol,  with  which 
the  commercial  varieties  are  frequently  contaminated  (to  the  extent  of  5 per  cent,  or 
more. 

Properties  and  Tests. — “ Colorless  or  pale  buff-colored,  shining,  crystalline 
laminae,  or  a white  or  yellowish-white  crystalline  powder,  having  a faint  phenol-like  odor, 
and  a sharp  and  pungent,  but  not  persistent  taste.  Permanent  in  the  air.  Soluble  at 
15°  C.  (59°  F.),  in  about  1000  parts  of  water,  and  in  0.75  part  of  alcohol ; in  about  75 
parts  of  boiling  water,  and  very  soluble  in  boiling  alcohol.  Also  very  soluble  in  ether, 
chloroform,  or  solutions  of  caustic  alkalies.  When  heated,  naphtol  sublimes  easily.  It 
is  also  volatilized  with  the  vapors  of  alcohol  or  water.  It  melts  at  122°  C.  (251.6°  F.), 
and  boils  at  286°  C.  (546.8°  F.).  On  ignition  it  is  consumed,  leaving  no  residue.  It  is 
neutral  to  litmus-paper  moistened  with  alcohol.  A cold,  saturated,  aqueous  solution  of 
naphtol,  when  mixed  with  ammonia  water,  exhibits  a faint  bluish  fluorescence.  Chlorine 
or  bromine-water,  added  to  the  aqueous  solution,  produces  a white  turbidity,  which  dis- 
appears on  adding  ammonia-water  in  excess.  On  adding  about  0.1  Gm.  of  naphtol  to  a 
few  Cc.  of  a concentrated,  aqueous  solution  (1  in  4)  of  potassium  hydroxide,  then  about  1 
Cc.  of  chloroform,  and  gently  warming,  the  aqueous  layer  will  acquire  a blue  tint,  chang- 
ing after  a while  to  green  and  brown.  Ferric  chloride  test-solution  colors  the  aqueous 
solution  of  naphtol  greenish,  and,  after  some  time,  causes  the  separation  of  white  flakes, 
which  turn  brown  on  heating  the  liquid.  A piece  of  pine  wood  dipped  into  an  aqueous 
solution  of  naphtol,  and  afterward  moistened  with  dilute  hydrochloric  acid,  becomes  green 
on  exposure  to  daylight.  On  dissolving  naphtol  in  50  parts  of  ammonia-water,  no 
residue  should  be  left  (absence  of  naphtalene),  and  the  solution  should  not  have  a deeper 
tint  than  pale  yellow  (absence  of  other  organic  impurities).  If  0.1  Gm.  of  naphtol  be 
mixed,  in  a test-tube,  with  1 drop  of  syrup  and  5 Cc.  of  water,  and  about  3 Cc.  of  con- 
centrated sulphuric  acid  be  then  poured  into  the  tube  held  in  a slanting  position,  so  that 
the  liquids  may  form  separate  layers,  a yellowish-brown  color  will  appear  at  the  zone  of 
contact,  which  becomes  darker  on  standing  (absence  of,  and  distinction  from  alpha-naph- 
tol, which  produces  at  once  a crimson  color,  turning  deep  blue  in  the  upper  part  of  the 
zone  on  standing).” — U S. 

Derivative  and  Allied  Compounds. — Microcidin. — Under  this  name  a compound  was  recom- 
mended by  Polaillon  as  an  antiseptic,  which  is  practically  sodium-naphtol,  and  is  obtained  as  a 
white  powder  by  fusing  beta-naphtol  with  half  its  weight  of  sodium  hydroxide,  and  cooling.  It 
is  soluble  in  water  (about  3 parts)  and  is  non-caustic. 

Benzonaphtol  or  /3,-naphtol  benzoate  is  obtained  by  action  of  benzoyl  chloride  on  beta- 
naphtol  in  a sand-bath  ; the  reaction  begins  at  125°  C.  (257°  F.),  and  is  completed  in  half  an 
hour  at  170°  C.  (408°  F.).  A hard  crystalline  mass  results,  which  yields  the  benzonaphtol  to 
boiling  alcohol.  It  occurs  as  a wrhite  crystalline  powder  or  in  form  of  long  needles,  is  odorless 
and  tasteless,  and  insoluble  in  cold  water.  Its  chemical  formula  is  C6II5CO2C10II7,  and  it  melts 
at  110°  C.  (230°  F.).  When  internally  administered  it  causes  diuresis,  lowering  of  temperature 
and  of  cardiac  and  respiratory  action.  Benzonaphtol  has  been  given  to  children  to  the  extent 
of  30  grains  a day  in  frequently  repeated  small  doses. 

Betol  or  /3-naphtol  salicylate,  Napiitalol,  Naphtosalol,  Salinaphtol. — C6II40IIC02.- 
'-uoBT. — A crystalline  compound  analogous  to  salol  and  prepared  in  a manner  identical  with  that 
employed  for  the  latter  substance,  except  that  sodium-naphtol  is  used  instead  of  sodium-phenol. 
In  order  to  free  the  crude  product  from  the  accompanying  sodium  chloride  and  meta-phosphate, 
it  is  well  washed  with  water  and  then  crystallized  from  its  solution  in  alcohol.  Pure  betol 
a>aUoS  aS  a.C0J°^ess  lustrous  crystalline  powder,  without  odor  and  taste  and  melting  at  95°  C. 
(203°  F.) ; it  is  insoluble  in  water  or  glycerin,  difficultly  soluble  in  turpentine  and  cold  alcohol, 
hut  readily  soluble  in  boiling  alcohol,  ether,  benzene,  and  warm  linseed  oil.  Betol  is  not 
affected  in  the  cold  by  moderately  strong  acids  or  solutions  of  the  caustic  alkalies,  but  when 
heated  with  concentrated  solutions  it  is  split  up  into  salicylic  acid  and  beta-naphtol.  As  in  the 
case  of  salol,  the  same  effect  is  produced  by  the  alkaline  pancreatic  juice  and  other  intestinal 
ferments,  but  gastric  juice  has  no  effect  upon  it.  Betol  is  readily  distinguished  from  salol  by  its 
much  higher  melting  point  (salol  melts  at  43°  C.  (109.4°  F.)),  and  by  the  production  of  a pure 


1074 


NAPHTOL. 


lemon-yellow  colored  solution  with  pure  concentrated  sulphuric  acid,  which  a trace  of  nitric  acid 
changes  to  olive  brownish-green  ; salol  gives  no  such  color  reactions.  Betol  has  been  admin- 
istered in  cases  of  vesical  catarrh  and  articular  rheumatism  in  doses  of  5 or  6 grains  four  times 
a day. 

Diiodo-beta-naphtol  or  Naphtol-aristol. — A greenish-yellow  compound,  odorless  and  taste- 
less, insoluble  in  water,  sparingly  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  or  acetic  acid,  but  freely  soluble  in 
chloroform ; when  heated  it  evolves  violet  fumes.  It  is  made  by  mixing  a solution  of  2.4  parts 
each  of  iodine  and  potassium  iodide  with  a solution  of  1 1 parts  of  beta-naphtol  and  4 parts  of 
sodium  carbonate,  and  then  adding  to  the  mixture  a solution  of  sodium  hypochlorite,  which  pre- 
cipitates the  new  compound. 

Asaprol,  Calcium  beta-naphtol-alpha-monosulphonate  (010II6.OH.SO3)2Ca  + 3H20.  This 
compound  was  introduced  by  Stackler  and  Dubief  as  an  antiseptic  in  1892.  It  is  obtained  by 
neutralizing  the  free  acid  with  calcium  carbonate,  concentrating  the  solution  and  crystallizing. 
Asaprol  occurs  as  a colorless  neutral  crystalline  powder,  soluble  in  one  and  a half  parts  of  water 
and  in  3 parts  of  alcohol ; it  has  been  given  internally  in  doses  of  1-4  Gm.  (15-60  grains)  a day. 

Alumnol,  Aluminum  naphtolsulphonate.  Introduced  by  Heinz  and  Liebrecht  toward  the  close 
of  the  year  1892  as  an  astringent  antiseptic.  It  is  probably  obtained  by  mutual  decomposition 
between  aluminum  sulphate  and  barium  naphtolsulphonate.  An  almost  colorless  non-hygros- 
copic  powder  readily  soluble  in  cold  water  or  glycerin  •,  it  is  less  soluble  in  alcohol  and  insoluble 
in  ether.  The  aqueous  and  alcoholic  solutions  show  a blue  fluorescence  and  have  an  acid  reaction. 
A peculiar  reaction  of  alumnol  consists  in  the  precipitation  of  solutions  of  albumen  and  gelatin, 
the  precipitate  being  redissolved  by  an  excess  of  the  latter  substances.  A 40  per  cent,  solution 
prepared  with  hot  water  remains  clear  upon  cooling ; an  aqueous  solution  of  alumnol  is  colored 
blue  by  ferric  chloride. 

Hydronaphtol  is  the  name  given  to  a derivative  of  beta-naphtol  obtained  by  the  action  of 
reducing  agents.  It  occurs  in  scale-like  crystals  of  a silvery  white  or  grayish  hue  ; it  is  sparingly 
soluble  in  water  (1  in  1100),  but  dissolves  freely  in  alcohol,  ether,  glycerin,  benzene,  chloroform, 
and  fixed  oils.  Odor  and  taste  are  slightly  aromatic.  Hydronaphtol  may  be  distinguished  from 
beta-naphtol  by  the  following  tests:  melting-point  at  117°  C.  (242.6°  F.) ; a drop  of  tincture  of 
chloride  of  iron  added  to  1 fluidrachm  of  a 5 per  cent,  alcoholic  solution  of  hydronaphtol  produces 
a deep  yellow-brown  color,  and  dark-brown  flocculi  will  separate  ; in  the  case  of  beta-naphtol  the 
color  is  bright  green,  and  nothing  separates  5 hydronaphtol  forms  a yellowish-brown  solution 
with  alcohol  or  a cold  dilute  solution  of  soda,  beta-naphtol  forms  a colorless  solution  with  alcohol, 
but  is  insoluble  in  cold  dilute  soda  solution.  Hydronaphtol  is  non-poisonous,  non-irritant,  and 
non-corrosive ; its  minimum  antiseptic  action  lies  very  nearly  at  1 in  7200,  while  the  maximum 
lies  between  1 in  2500  and  1 in  3000.  It  is  used  in  the  form  of  powder  diluted  with  50  parts  of 
Fuller’s  earth  or  starch  as  a dry  dressing,  also  in  form  of  ointment,  jelly,  plaster,  soap,  and  solu- 
tion. Internally  it  has  been  used  in  the  treatment  of  enteric  fever,  diarrhoea,  etc.,  in  doses  of  2 
or  3 grains  in  capsules  three  or  four  times  a day. 

Alpha-naphtol,  isomeric  with  the  beta-compound,  may  be  obtained  in  the  manner  already 
stated  above  ; its  chief  use  has  been  as  a test  for  sugar  in  urine,  as  follows  : If  one  drop  of  urine 

with  one  drop  of  a 10  per  cent,  solution  of  alpha-naphtol  in  chloroform  is  placed  in  a test-tube 
with  15  minims  of  water  and  concentrated  sulphuric  acid  be  then  carefully  poured  in  so  that 
the  chloroformic  solution  floats  on  it,  a beautiful  violet  ring  is  formed  at  the  line  of  contact  of 
the  two  liquids  if  only  per  cent,  of  sugar  be  present  (Molish  and  Luther).  It  resembles 
/2-naphtol,  but  is  more  readily  soluble  in  water,  and  is  more  poisonous  than  the  latter ; its  melt- 
ing-point is  at  95°  C.  (203°  F.),  and  boiling  point  between  278°-280°  C.  (532.4°-536°  F.). 

Camphorated  naphtol  is  a brownish  transparent,  syrupy  liquid,  obtained  by  mixing  1 part 
of  beta-naphtol  with  two  parts  of  camphor ; it  has  been  used  with  success  in  the  antiseptic  treat- 
ment of  boils,  coryza,  etc.  The  pain  caused  by  painting  the  diseased  parts  with  camphor-naphtol 
may  be  alleviated  by  the  addition  of  cocaine. 

Alpha-oxynaphtoic  acid  (C10H6OHCOOH)  is  obtained  by  a method  analogous  to  that  employed 
in  the  manufacture  of  synthetic  salicylic  acid — namely,  by  the  action  of  carbon  dioxide  upon  sodium 
alpha-naphtol.  The  acid  occurs  in  acicular  crystals  of  a naphtol-like  odor,  free  from  color  and 
melting  at  185°  C.  (365°  F.)  ; it  is  slightly  soluble  in  cold  and  more  readily  in  hot  water ; glycerin 
takes  up  0.5  per  cent.,  and  alcohol  and  ether  10  per  cent.  It  forms  soluble  salts  with  the  alkalies. 
Alpha-oxynaphtoic  acid  has  been  recommended  as  a disinfectant  and  antiseptic,  and  has  been 
used  in  form  of  a 10  per  cent,  ointment  in  skin  diseases  and  scabies. 

Action  and  Uses. — Beta-naphtol  was  introduced  by  Kaposi  into  the  therapeu- 
tics of  skin  diseases.  He  says  of  it : “A  weak  solution  in  water  and  alcohol  imparts  an 
agreeable  pliancy  to  the  sound  skin  ; when  stronger  and  repeated,  it  occasions  slight  fis- 
sures and  a delicate  brownish-yellow  staining  of  the  outer  epidermic  layers.  It  is  absorbed 
by  the  skin,  and  excreted,  in  part  at  least,  as  naphtol  by  the  kidneys.  It  possesses  hardly 
any  smell,  does  not  stain  the  skin  or  hair,  and  its  slight  discoloration  of  linen  washes  out 
( Edinb.  Med.  Jour.,  xxvii.  184).  Allen  states  that  several  patients  with  itch,  and  who 
had  a naphthol  ointment  applied  to  the  whole  body,  appeared  to  be  affected  with  gay 
intoxication  (Med.  Record , xxxi.  568).  This  naphthol  has  been  given  internally  in 
typhoid  fever  to  the  extent  of  Gm.  2.50  (gr.  xl)  a day  as  an  antifermentative — i.  e.  on 
purely  speculative  grounds.  No  practical  benefits  from  it  have  been  demonstrated, 


NAPHTOL. 


1075 


although  they  have  been  claimed  for  it  ( Practitioner , xli.  421).  Like  its  congeners,  beta- 
naphthol  is  a powerful  deodorizer,  and,  as  it  is  also  a wholesome  stimulant,  it  has  been 
applied  to  many  ulcerated  and  secreting  surfaces,  and  notably  in  ozsena.  Rualt  recom- 
mended for  irrigating  the  nostrils  a teaspoonful  of  beta-naphthol  12  parts,  in  alcohol  (90 
per  cent.)  84  parts,  in  a quart  of  water  to  which  has  been  added  a teaspoonful  of  equal 
parts  of  borate  of  sodium  and  bicarbonate  of  sodium.  In  obstinate  cases  this  lotion  was 
supplemented  by  the  introduction  into  the  nostrils  of  cotton  tampons  saturated  with  the 
following  solution  : Beta-naphthol,  12  parts  ; tincture  of  quillaia,  88  ; distilled  water,  400 
(Med.  Neics , liii.  102).  Among  diseases  of  the  skin , Kaposi  found  that  scabies  could  be 
cured  by  two  frictions  with  a 10-15  per  cent,  beta-naphthol  ointment.  In  various  other 
cutaneous  affections,  as  morbus  pediculosus,  pruritus , psoriasis , acne,  prurigo , lupus  -ery- 
thematosus, etc.,  in  all  from  which  active  inflammation  is  absent,  it  was  of  signal  advan- 
tage ; but  in  eczema  Kaposi  found  it  less  useful  or  positively  irritating,  and  so  have  other 
dermatologists  (Van  Harlingen,  Amer.  Jour.  Med.  Sci .,  Oct.  1883,  p.  479  ; Allen,  Med. 
Record,  xxxi.  567). 

Microcidin. — The  antiseptic  virtue  of  this  compound,  as  set  forth  by  Berlioz,  is  that 
“it  is  somewhat  inferior  to  corrosive  sublimate  and  naphthol,  and  ten  times  greater  than 
carbolic  acid,  and  twenty  times  greater  than  boric  acid.  Ulcers  and  suppurating  wounds 
rapidly  cicatrize,  and  gangrenous  surfaces  are  effectually  deodorized  after  washing  with 
a 0.3  per  cent,  solution  (Squibb).  Others  give  the  proper  strength  of  its  solution 
as  3 to  5 per  1000. 

Benzonaphthol  is  regarded  as  antiseptic  and  diuretic,  and  but  slightly  poisonous.  Its 
daily  dose  has  been  stated  to  be  Gm.  4-5  (gr.  lx-lxxv),  (Med.  News , lx.  423)  ; but  others 
recommend  doses  of  Gm.  0.25-0.50  (gr.  iv-viij),  suspended  in  syrup  and  water. 

Xaphthalol  or  naphthosalol  was  studied  by  Kobert  (1887),  who  found  that  it  was 
decomposed  by  pancreatic  juice  and  the  secretions  of  the  caecum  and  colon,  but  not  by 
the  gastric  juices.  Doses  of  from  Gm.  0.3-0. 5 (gr.  v— viij)  caused  no  disagreeable  symp- 
toms, and  no  poisonous  effects  of  it  were  met  with.  The  urine  discharged  while  it  was 
taken  turned  violet  with  perchloride  of  iron.  It  was  found  useful  in  various  forms  of 
catarrh  of  the  bladder,  especially  in  gonorrheal  cystitis  with  ammoniacal  urine.  It  seemed 
to  act  well  in  acute  articular  rheumatism , and  in  the  same  manner  as  phenolsalol.  It 
does  not  counteract  putridity  as  well  as  that  preparation  (Am.  Jour.  Phar.,  Aug.  1887, 
p.  418). 

Betol  has  been  used  chiefly  in  the  bowel  complaints  of  children,  but  also  in  those  of 
adults ; as  well  as  in  acute  articular  rheumatism  and  bladder  affections.  It  is  but  little  if 
at  ail  poisonous,  and  its  taste  is  rather  agreeable  than  otherwise.  It  may  be  administered 
by  the  rectum  as  well  as  by  the  mouth,  and  associated  with  bismuth  or  with  antacids. 
Dose,  Gm.  0.50  (gr.  viij)  suspended  in  mucilage  or  syrup. 

Asaprol,  as  its  name  implies,  is  antiseptic,  and  is  said  to  destroy  the  bacilli  of  typhoid 
fever,  etc.  It  is  held  to  be  antipyretic  and  analgesic,  and  more  rapidly  and  efficiently 
than  the  salicylates,  with  the  advantage  of  neither  exciting  vomiting  nor  disturbing  the 
brain  or  the  auditory  apparatus.  It  has  been  especially  commended  for  its  action  in  acute 
rheumatism,  influenza,  and  typhoid  fever.  It  has  been  prescribed  in  gradually  increased 
and  divided  doses — Gm.  2 the  first,  Gm.  3 the  second,  andGm.  4 the  third  day — with  a 
considerable  quantity  of  water. 

Hydronaphthol  is  stated  by  Dr.  Fowler  (New  York  Med.  Jour.,  Oct.  3,  1885)  to 
possess  antiseptic  properties  fifteen  times  greater  than  carbolic  acid,  over  which  it  is  said 
to  possess  the  advantages  of  being  neither  corrosive,  nor  poisonous,  nor  odorous,  nor 
injurious  to  textile  fabrics  or  their  colors,  nor  to  steel  instruments.  A saturated  watery 
solution  of  1 : 1000  is  completely  antiseptic.  It  can  be  mixed  with  dry  powders  and 
render  them  antiseptic,  and  is  not  decomposed  by  organic  matters.  According  to  Dr. 
Levis,  “ its  germicidal  and  proper  disinfectant  power  is  ineffective,  but  it  prevents  the  for- 
mation of  putrescent  germs,  and  it  is  adapted  to  take  the  place  of  carbolic  acid  in  surgery  ” 
(Therap.  Gaz.,  ix.  825).  Dr.  Dockrell,  however,  applauds  it  as  one  of  the  surest  agents 
for  destroying  the  tricophyton  fungus  of  tinea  tonsurans  (Lancet,  Nov.  1889,  p.  1110). 

Hydroxylamine  was  shown  by  Brunton  and  Bokenham  to  produce  a fall  of  blood- 
pressure  almost  exactly  similar  to  that  produced  by  nitrite  of  amyl  (Proceedings  of  the 
Royal  Society,  vol.  xlv.).  Binz  held  that  it  does  not  directly  affect  the  brain,  but  only 
through  the  changes  it  occasions  in  the  constitution  of  the  blood  (Therap.  Monatsh .,  iv. 
136),  which  turns  of  a deep  brown  color  through  the  dissolution  of  the  red  corpuscles. 
As  effects  of  this  disorganization  the  urine  becomes  blood-red  and  a narcotic  action  on 
the  brain  is  produced.  Hydroxylamine  is,  however,  not  given  internally,  but  is  applied 


1076 


NARCISSUS. 


to  the  treatment  of  certain  diseases  of  the  skin,  especially  lupus, parasitic  sycosis , herpes 
tonsurans , and  psoriasis . It  has  the  advantage  over  chrysarobin  and  pyrogallic  acid  of  not 
staining  the  skin  or  the  clothing,  but  it  is  sometimes  very  irritating,  and  by  absorption  has 
occasioned  albuminuria.  A 10  per  cent,  solution  of  it  has  vesicated  the  skin.  Eichoff 
( Therap . Monatsh .,  iii.  137)  has  recommended  the  following:  Hydroxylamin.  hydrochlor. 
Gm.  0.1,  spirit,  vini,  glycerini,  aa  Gm.  50  : to  be  applied  several  times  a day  after  cleans- 
ing the  part  with  soap  and  water.  Doutrelepont  and  Fabry  (Centralbl.  f.  Therap .,  vii. 
376)  prescribe:  Hydroxylamin.  hydrochlor.  Gm.  0.2-0. 5,  spt.  vini.  Gm.  100,  calcis  carb. 
q.  s.  ad  neutral. — M.  For  painting  on  the  eruption ; and  for  a lotion  to  be  applied  on 
cloths,  1 : 1000. 

NARCISSUS.— Daffodil. 

Narcisse  des  pres,  Porrillon , Fr. ; Gelbe  Narcisse,  G. 

Narcissus  Pseudonarcissus,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Amaryllidaceae. 

Description. — Daffodil  is  found  wild  in  moist  and  shady  places  in  Southern  Europe, 
and  is  frequently  cultivated  in  gardens.  It  has  an  ovate,  tunicated,  whitish  bulb , which 
is  covered  by  brown  leaf-scales  and  has  a mucilaginous  and  bitter  taste.  The  leaves  are 
flat,  linear,  erect.  The  flowers  are  single  on  the  scape,  nodding,  large,  yellow,  with  a top- 
shaped tube  and  a large  bell-shaped  cup,  wavy  or  crisped  at  the  margin,  and  equal  to  the 
six  spreading  divisions  of  the  perianth  ; they  have  an  unpleasant  odor  and  a nauseous, 
bitter,  and  acrid  taste. 

Constituents. — The  acrid  and  bitter  principles  of  daffodil  have  not  been  investi- 
gated. Caventou  obtained  from  the  flowers  by  ether  a yellow,  and  by  alcohol  a brown- 
yellow,  coloring  matter.  Jourdain  (1840)  gave  the  name  narcitin  to  an  emetic,  probably 
extractive,  substance,  of  which  he  obtained  37  per  cent,  from  the  bulb  and  25  per  cent, 
from  the  flowers ; it  is  described  as  white,  translucent,  of  a slight  odor  and  taste,  deli- 
quescent and  soluble  in  water,  alcohol,  and  vinegar.  He  also  found  6 per  cent,  of  gum 
and  24  per  cent,  of  tannin.  Gerrard  obtained  a crystalline  neutral  principle  and  pseudo- 
narcissine,  an  amorphous  alkaloid. 

Narcissus  jonquilla,  Linne,  Jonquil.  The  scape  bears  two  to  five  small,  yellow, 
fragrant  flowers,  from  which  ether  takes  up  a yellow,  butyraceous,  volatile  oil  of  a very 
agreeable  odor ; afterward  alcohol  dissolves  a brown,  viscid  oil  of  an  unpleasant  odor 
(Robiquet,  1835). 

Action  and  Uses. — M.  Gerrard  extracted  from  the  flowering  bulbs  an  alkaloid 
which  in  many  respects  resembles  atropine.  It  dries  the  mouth ; checks  the  cutaneous 
circulation  ; dilates  the  pupil,  especially  in  topical  applications  to  the  eye,  the  dilatation 
being  preceded  for  a short  time  by  contraction  ; quickens  the  pulse ; in  a great  measure 
antagonizes  the  effects  of  muscarine  and  pilocarpine  on  the  heart  of  frogs,  and,  directly 
applied  to  the  frog’s  heart,  slows  and  weakens  its  contractions.  The  alkaloid  extracted 
from  the  bulb  after  flowering  causes  copious  salivation,  and  probably  increases  cutaneous 
secretion  ; given  internally,  contracts  the  pupils ; topically  applied,  dilates  the  pupils, 
but  less  so  than  the  alkaloid  of  the  flowering  plant ; slightly  relaxes  the  bowels,  and 
causes  some  faintness  and  nausea.  An  extract  of  the  flowered  bulbs  exhibits  emetic 
and  purgative  properties  not  possessed  by  the  alkaloids.  In  man  the  most  noticeable 
effect  of  narcissus  is  vomiting.  Gm.  1—2  (gr.  xv-xxx)  of  wild  narcissus-flowers  are  said 
to  act  as  an  emetic,  especially  if  given  in  a decoction  prepared  from  the  flowers  dried 
slowly  in  the  sun.  In  1876  the  infusion  was  strongly  recommended  for  children  when 
prepared  in  the  following  manner:  Gm.  2-3.30  (gr.  xxx— 1)  of  narcissus-flowers  are 
infused  for  fifteen  or  twenty  minutes  in  Gm.  160-190  (^v-vj)  of  hot  water,  and  strained. 
When  slightly  sweetened,  children  take  it  without  repugnance  and  vomit  within  ten  or 
twelve  minutes.  The  emetic  action  of  narcissus  has  been  used  to  break  up  intermittent 
fever  and  relieve  bronchial  catarrh  with  congestion  or  obstruction  of  the  air-tubes.  Like 
ipecacuanha,  it  has  also  been  prescribed  in  dysentery,  especially  of  the  epidemic  form. 
Its  influence  on  the  nervous  system  is  attested  by  the  vogue  it  has  enjoyed  in  hysteria, 
chorea,  whooping  cough  and  even  epilepsy.  The  dose  of  the  powdered  flowers  is  Gm. 
1-2  (gr.  xv-xxx) ; of  the  powdered  bulb  from  Gm.  2-8  (^ss-ij)  may  be  given  as  an 
emetic. 


NECTA  NDRJE  CORTEX. 


1077 


NECTANDRiE  CORTEX,  Br  — Bebeeru-Bark. 

Cortex  beberu,  s.  bibiru. — Green-heart  bark , E. ; Ecorce  de  bebeeru , Fr. ; Bibirurinde , G. 


The  bark  of  Nectandra  Rodisei,  Scliomburgk.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 219. 

Nat.  Ord. — Lauraceae,  Perseaceae. 

Origin.— The  greenheart  is  a tree  from  18  to  30  M.  (G0-100  feet)  high,  growing  in 
British  Guiana  on  hillsides  a short  distance  from  the  sea,  and  disappearing  farther  inland. 
The  small  compound  racemes  of  white  flowers  are  situated  in  the  axils  of  the  coriaceous 
oblong  elliptical  and  acuminate  leaves,  and  produce  a subglobular  berry  about  5 Cm.  (2 
inches)  in  diameter,  supported  by  the  enlarged  cup-shaped  tube  of  the  calyx,  and  con 
taining  a single  seed  nearly  the  size  of  the  fruit.  The  wood  is  very  durable  and  useful 
in  shipbuilding. 

Description. — The  bark  is  in  flat  or  somewhat  curved  pieces,  sometimes  30  to  60 
Cm.  (1-2  feet)  long  and  10  to  15  Cm.  (4-6  inches)  wide  by  6 Mm.  Q-  inch)  thick,  is  heavy, 
hard,  and  brittle,  and  consists  of  fiber  only.  The  outer  surface  is  gray-brown,  with 
numerous  irregular  conchoidal  depressions,  the  ridges  between  consisting  of  soft  cork, 
sometimes  with  light  reddish-gray  patches  containing  small  suberous  warts.  The  inner 
surface  is  cinnamon-brown  and  rather  coarsely  striate.  The  bark  breaks  with  a short  and 
rough  granular  fracture,  which  is  somewhat  fibrous  in  the  inner  layer.  It  has  no  odor ; 
its  taste  is  astringent  and  persistently  bitter. 

Constituents. — Besides  tannin,  producing  green  precipitates  with  iron  salts,  some 
starch,  and  other  common  constituents,  the  bark  contains  an  alkaloid,  beberine , C19H21N03, 
discovered  by  Rodie  (1834).  In  its  pure  state  it  is  a white  bitter  fusible  powder,  soluble 
in  alcohol  and  ether,  according  to  Walz  (1860)  identical  with  buxine,  the  alkaloid  of  Buxus 
sempervirens,  Linne , and,  according  to  Fliickiger  (1869),  also  with  pelosine  and  paracine. 
(See  Pareira  Brava.)  The  commercial  beberine  sulphate  was  found  by  Maclagan 
(1843)  to  contain  another  alkaloid,  sipirine,  which  is  red-brown,  resin-like,  and  insoluble 
in  ether.  Maclagan  obtained  the  alkaloid  also  from  the  fruit.  It  is  combined  with  bebiric 
acid , which  forms  white  deliquescent  crystals,  fuses  at  150°  C.,  and  sublimes  at  200°  C. 
Together  with  Gamgee  (1870),  he  examined  the  wood  and  obtained  several  alkaloids,  one 
of  which,  nectandrine , C20H23NO4,  fuses  in  boiling  water,  is  very  soluble  in  chloroform, 
little  so  in  ether ; sulphuric  acid  and  manganese  dioxide  produce  a green  color,  changing 
to  violet.  The  others  have  not  been  further  examined.  It  has  not  been  determined 
whether  any  one  of  these  alkaloids  is  identical  with  parabuxine,  C24H48N20,  which  was 
found  by  Pavia  in  box-bark ; according  to  Pavesi  and  Rotondi  (T874)  its  sulphate  is 
insoluble  in  alcohol,  its  nitrate  crystallizes  in  pearly  scales,  and  its  hydrochloride  in 
minute  needles. 


Allied  Drugs. — Nectandra  (Ocotea,  Martins ) Puchurv  major  and  N.  Puchury  minor,  Nees. — 
Pichury  bean,  E. ; Fbve  pichurim,  Noix  de  sassafras,  Fr. ; Pichurimbohnen,  Sassafrasniisse,  G. 
— This  Brazilian  drug  consists  of  the  cotyledons,  which  are  oblong  or  roundish  ovate,  convex  on 
one,  and  flattish  concave  on  the  other  side,  marked  near  one  end  with  a depressed  scar  left  by  the 
detached  radicle ; about  4 Cm.  (II  inches)  long  and  12  Mm.  (I  inch)  broad,  externally  blackish- 
brown,  internally  light-brown,  and  with  yellow  oil-cells;  of  an  aromatic  odor  and  taste,  resem- 
bling that  of  nutmeg  with  an  admixture  of  sassafras.  Small  pichurim  beans  rarely  exceed  18 
Mm.  (f  inch)  in  length.  The  chief  constituents  are  starch,  gum,  about  30  per  cent,  of  fat,  partly 
butyraceous  and  partly  solid,  and  2 to  3 per  cent,  of  volatile  oil,  which  was  examined  by  Alex. 
Muller  (1853),  and  contains  a little  lauric  acid,  probably  also  safrol. 

Ocotea  (Oreodaphne,  Nees ) opifera,  Aublet , of  Brazil,  yields  canella  de  cheiro , and  from  the 
fruit  is  obtained  considerable  fragrant  volatile  oil,  which  is  used  in  embrocations. 

Ocotea  guianensis,  Aublet. — The  bark  is  employed  in  decoctions  in  the  treatment  of  abscesses. 

Mespilodaphne  (Cryptocaria,  Martius)  pretiosa,  Nees,  yields  the  casca  pretiosa  of  Brazil, 
which  bark  is  externally  yellowish-brown,  smooth  and  somewhat  warty,  internally  cinnamon- 
brown,  of  an  odor  resembling  cinnamon  and  sassafras,  and  has  a sweetish,  warm,  and  aromatic 
taste. 

Cryptocaria  australis,  Bentham. — The  bark  of  this  Australian  species  is  persistently  bitter 
and  poisonous.  T.  L.  Bancroft  (1887)  isolated  a very  bitter  alkaloid  crystallizing  in  needles. 

Coto-bark  was  sent  from  Bolivia  to  Europe  in  1875.  Its  origin  has  not  been  determined,  but 
it  is  probably  derived  from  a lauraceous  tree.  However,  Schuchardt  succeeded  (1890)  in 
tracing  a coto-bark  received  from  Venezuela  to  Primys  Winteri,  Forster , var.  granatensis,  Eichler. 
Coto-bark  is  met  with  in  flat  or  curved  pieces  6 Mm.  (I  inch)  or  more  thick,  of  a cinnamon-brown 
color,  externally  smooth,  the  inner  surface  usually  darker,  and  upon  the  transverse  section  show- 
ing numerous  yellow  dots  of  groups  of  stone-cells  and  bast  fibres  ; the  bark  breaks  with  a short, 
granular,  and  in  the  inner  layer  irregular  and  coarsely  splintery,  fracture,  and  has  an  aromatic 
odor  resembling  a mixture  of  cardamom,  cajuput,  and  camphor,  and  a bitterish  aromatic  and 
pungent  taste. 


1078 


NECTANDRM  CORTEX. 


By  extracting  the  bark  with  ether  Jobst  and  Hesse  (1876,  1877)  isolated  a number  of  new 
proximate  principles.  Cotoin , C2.2H1806,  crystallizes  in  white  fusible  prisms,  has  a biting  taste, 
is  readily  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  chloroform,  and  carbon  disulphide,  and  with  difficulty  solu- 
ble in  benzene,  petroleum  benzin,  and  cold  water.  Nitric  acid  dissolves  it  with  a blood-red, 
sulphuric  acid  with  a brown-yellow,  and  hydrochloric  acid  with  a yellow  color.  Ferric  salts 
precipitate  its  concentrated  solutions  hlackisb-brown,  while  dicotoin  is  colored  brown-red.  Witt- 
stein  found  in  coto-bark  also  pale-yellow  volatile  oil  of  a peppery  taste,  a volatile  alkaloid,  proba- 
bly propylamine,  resin,  starch,  etc.,  and  1.8  per  cent,  of  ash. 

Paracoto-bark  resembles  the  bark  described  above  in  color  and  appearance^  except  that  the 
outer  layer  consists  of  whitish  deeply-fissured  cork,  and  that  the  odor  resembles  that  of  nutmeg. 

Paracotoin , C19H1206,  crystallizes  in  yellowish-white  scales,  is  tasteless,  and  dissolves  in  sul- 
phuric and  nitric  acids  with  a yellow  color ; solution  of  potassa  converts  it  into  paracotoic  acid, 
paracumarhydrin,  and  other  products.  Leucotin , C34H32O,0,  is  tasteless,  dissolves  in  sulphuric 
acid  with  a dark-yellow,  in  nitric  acid  with  a blue-green  color,  and  is  freely  soluble  in  alcohol, 
ether,  and  chloroform.  Oxyleucotin , C34H32012,  hydrocotoin , C15I11404,  and  protocotoin , C16H1406, 
have  also  been  isolated,  the  latter  by  Ciamician  and  Silber  (1891).  Both  barks  contain  piper- 
onylic  acid,  C8H604,  which  has  been  obtained  by  Mielck  (1869)  among  the  products  of  oxidation 
of  piperic  acid,  and  was  shown  by  Fittig  and  Remsen  (1871)  to  be  methylene-protocatechuic 
acid  •,  it  is  sublimable,  and  crystallizes  in  needles  melting  at  228°  0.  (442.4°  F.). 

Tincture  of  coto-bark  has  been  made  from  1 part  of  the  bark  and  9 parts  of  alcohol. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  bitterness  and  astringency  of  nectandra  are  due  in  a 
great  measure  to  its  alkaloid,  beberina.  According  to  its  original  promoters,  beberine 
had  all  the  virtues  without  the  objectionable  qualities  of  quinine,  such  as  the  production 
of  tinnitus,  headache,  etc.  In  small  doses  it  appeared  to  be  a stomachic  tonic.  In  experi- 
ments upon  the  frog,  in  which  the  alkaloid  was  used  hypodermically,  it  caused  tetanic 
retraction  of  the  limbs  in  the  same  manner  as  quinine,  but  these  effects  were  not  produced 
by  either  substance  when  given  by  the  stomach.  Nor  did  the  tetanism  resemble  that  of 
strychnine,  since  it  was  not  intensified  by  external  excitation. 

In  the  treatment  of  periodical  fevers  this  substance  proves  to  be  very  inferior  in  efficacy 
to  quinine,  since  it  fails  in  at  least  one-half  of  the  cases.  It  has  also  been  vaunted  in  the 
treatment  of  periodical  headache  and  neuralgia , as  an  antihectic  remedy  in  consumption , 
as  a tonic  in  atonic  dyspepsia , in  menorrhagia , leucorrhoea.,  etc.  It  may,  on  the  whole,  be 
regarded  as  an  imperfect  substitute  for  quinine.  The  dose  of  beberine  is  from  Gm.  0.06 
to  0.18  (gr.  1-3)  as  a tonic,  and  from  Gm.  0.30  to  0.60  (gr.  5-10)  as  an  antiperiodic 
medicine.  (See  Beberine  Sulphas.) 

Coto-Bark.  Burkart  observes  that  from  Gm.  0.5  to  1 (gr.  8-15)  of  coto-bark  pro- 
duces eructations,  nausea,  a continued  feeling  of  warmth  in  the  stomach,  and  even  vomit- 
ing. The  tincture,  applied  to  the  skin,  causes  redness  and  heat.  Cotoin  and  paracotoin 
are  excreted  with  the  urine  (Amer.  Jour.  Phar.,  Jan.  1880,  p.  26). 

Coto,  although  belonging  to  the  same  natural  family  as  Nectandra,  does  not  in  the 
least  resemble  it  in  its  properties  or  medicinal  uses.  Indeed,  there  is  nothing  whatever 
in  its  sensible  qualities,  and  especially  no  astringency,  to  denote  its  possession  of  a power 
to  control  sweating  and  diarrhoea,  the  affections  for  which  it  is  chiefly  used.  Its  smell  is 
rather  aromatic  and  its  taste  acrid  and  somewhat  bitter.  Its  preparations,  including  cotoin, 
given  to  rabbits,  occasioned  no  definite  symptoms.  It  seems  to  be  stomachic  without 
constipating.  In  Germany  it  has  been  clinically  studied  by  several  physicians,  whose 
results  substantially  agree  with  one  another.  The  most  elaborate  reports  of  them  have 
been  furnished  by  Fronmiiller  and  Albertoni.  Of  diarrhoea , against  which  other  remedies 
had  for  the  most  part  proved  useless,  colliquative  forms  following  typhoid  fever  or  accom- 
panying phthisis,  it  cured  the  greater  number  of  cases  in  the  former  category  and  palliated 
all  in  both  diseases.  Even  when  most  efficient  the  medicine  could  not  be  abruptly  dis- 
continued without  risking  a return  of  the  symptoms.  In  the  successful  cases  the  quantity 
of  the  tincture  taken  during  the  day  varied  from  10  to  500  drops,  but  the  most  usual 
quantity  was  Gm.  3.30  (50  drops)  three  times  a day.  Similar  results  have  been  reported 
by  Yeo  ( Practitioner , xxiii.  257),  but  Dr.  Gee  gave  the  “ liquid  extract  of  coto-bark  for 
the  diarrhoea  of  phthisis,  typhoid  fever,  and  lardaceous  disease  without  the  least  benefit 
(St.  Bards  Pep.,  xv.  232).  Large  doses  are  evidently  more  efficient  than  small  ones. 
Unless  the  tincture  is  well  prepared,  it  occasions  an  unpleasant  burning  in  the  throat ; 
but,  properly  made,  the  stomach  not  only  tolerates  it,  but  the  appetite  improves  under  its 
use:  which  is  not  apt  to  be  the  case  when  opium,  tannic  acid,  acetate  of  lead,  etc.  are  used 
for  a similar  purpose.  Albertoni  ascribes  the  medicinal  power  of  cotoin  to  a power  of 
dilating  the  blood-vessels,  and  thereby  increasing  absorption.  But  this  rationale  would 
scarcely  apply  to  its  utility  in  sweating.  Indeed,  its  mode  of  action  is  unknown. 

As  regards  immoderate  sweating,  Fronmiiller  observed  in  the  case  of  a phthisical  patient 


NICCOLI  SULPHAS. 


1079 


suffering  at  the  same  time  from  colliquative  diarrhoea  that  both  symptoms  disappeared 
under  full  doses  of  tincture  of  coto.  He  prescribed  it  in  ninety-one  cases  of  excessive 
sweating — in  thirty-four  with  complete,  in  thirty-six  with  partial  success,  and  in  twenty- 
one  without  result.  Its  beneficial  effects  generally  lasted  only  one  night.  It  appeared  to 
be  more  efficient  than  other  medicines  commonly  used  under  such  circumstances.  These 
results  are  substantially  confirmed  by  Burkart,  Bohne,  and  Stewart  ( Edinb . Med.  Jour., 
xxvii.  750),  who,  as  well  as  Fronmiiller,  found  that  cotoin  and  paracotoin  produced  analo- 
gous effects.  The  latter  has  been  tried  subcutaneously  in  cholera  in  Gm.  0.20  (3-grain) 
doses.  The  urine  of  patients  taking  cotoin  is  said  to  assume  a red  color  on  the  addition 
of  concentrated  nitric  acid,  at  least  during  a few  hours  after  the  medicine  has  been  used. 
In  the  summer  complaint  of  this  country,  or  cholera  infantum , the  medicine  is  reported  to 
have  been  efficacious  when  used  in  an  elixir  (Parsons).  Its  chief,  if  not  its  sole,  medi- 
cinal virtue  consists  in  its  checking  diarrhoea  of  the  atonic  sort  and  without  regard  to  its 
origin.  It  is  said  to  be  well  borne  even  by  feeble  stomachs,  but  to  irritate  powerfully, 
though  transiently,  the  mucous  membrane  of  the  nose  and  pharynx.  Shurley  advises  its 
application  diluted  with  starch  (1  : 3 or  4)  in  atrophic  nasal  and  pharyngeal  cataiHi. 

Coto-bark  is  not  conveniently  given  in  powder  on  account  of  its  persistently  acrid  taste, 
but  the  proper  dose  is  stated  to  be  from  Gm.  0.30  to  0.50  (gr.  5-10),  given  three  or  four 
times  a day.  Cotoin  has  been  used  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.10  to  0.20  (gr.  1|— 3),  and  paracotoin 
in  doses  of  Gm.  0.30  (gr.  4-5),  three  times  a day.  The  tincture  appears  to  have  been 
found  the  most  convenient  preparation  of  coto-bark.  It  was  made  with  1 part  of  the  bark 
to  9 of  85  per  cent,  alcohol,  and  given  in  average  doses  of  about  Gm.  8 (f^ij)  sufficiently 
diluted.  Yeo  states  that  as  the  resin  is  precipitated  from  the  tincture  or  fluid  extract  on 
the  addition  of  water,  either  preparation  should  be  given  in  an  emulsion,  so  that  each 
dose  should  contain  about  5 minims  of  the  active  ingredient. 

Cryptocaria  australis  furnishes  an  alkaloid  which  in  warm-blooded  animals  causes 
dyspnoea  and  asphyxia  ( Therap . Gaz.,  xi.  747). 

Pichurim  beans  were  introduced  a century  ago  into  Europe  by  the  Portuguese,  and 
were  for  a long  time  regarded  as  possessing  a great  medicinal  value,  and  even  very  recently 
were  included  in  the  lists  of  the  German,  Spanish,  and  Portuguese  Pharmacopoeias.  They 
appear  to  depend  for  their  virtues  upon  a concrete  volatile  oil,  and  are  sometimes  used  as 
substitutes  for  nutmeg.  They  have  been  chiefly  used  as  stimulants  and  tonics  in  mild, 
subacute,  and  chronic  diarrhoea  and  dysentery , and  in  habitual  debility  of  the  intestinal 
canal  tending  to  produce  flatulence  and  diarrhoea.  Pichurim-bark,  which  has  an  aromatic 
smell  resembling  that  of  nutmegs  and  an  astringent  taste,  is  employed  in  Panama  in  the 
treatment  of  typhoid  states  of  the  system,  in  atonic  dyspepsia , chronic  vomiting , intermittent 
fever,  and  menstrual  disorders.  The  beans  are  given  in  powder  in  doses  of  from  Gm.  0.G0 
to  1.30  (gr.  x-xx),  or  else  in  an  infusion  ; the  bark  is  used  in  the  same  manner  and  in 
doses  twice  as  great  as  these. 


NICCOLI  SULPHAS.— Nickel  Sulphate. 

Sulfate  de  nickel , Fr. ; Nickelsulfat , G. 

Formula  NiS04.7H20.  Molecular  weight  280.14. 

Origin. — The  metal  nickel  was  first  obtained  in  1751  by  Cronstedt  from  niccolite  or 
kiip fer nickel,  a pale,  copper-colored  mineral,  the  composition  of  which  is  NiAs.  The  metal 
exists  in  various  ores  found  in  Sweden,  Germany,  and  other  parts  of  Europe,  and  in 
North  America  in  Pennsylvania  and  near  Lakes  Huron  and  Superior ; it  is  also  present  in 
a few  mineral  waters.  It  is  prepared  from  the  oxide  or  carbonate  by  reducing  it  at  a 
white  heat  in  the  presence  of  charcoal  or  organic  matters. 

Preparation. — Nickel  sulphate  may  be  prepared  by  dissolving  pure  nickel  carbon- 
ate in  diluted  sulphuric  acid,  concentrating  the  solution  and  crystallizing  at  or  below  20° 
C.  (68°  F.),  or  precipitating  it  with  alcohol.  The  salt  is  extensively  manufactured  on 
the  large  scale  from  impure  carbonate,  the  process  involving  the  separation  of  other 
metals,  like  arsenic,  iron,  copper,  and  cobalt. 

Properties. — The  salt  forms  either  a green  crystalline  powder  or  it  is  generally  seen 
in  emerald-green,  transparent,  rhombic  prisms,  which  effloresce  on  exposure,  losing  1 If, O, 
and  being  at  the  same  time  converted  into  an  aggregation  of  octahedral  crystals.  A salt 
containing  6H20  is  also  obtained  by  crystallization  from  an  acid  solution  at  above  20°  C. 
(68°  F.).  The  salt  has  a sweetish  and  styptic  taste  and  a slight  acid  reaction,  is  soluble 
in  about  3 parts  of  water  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  insoluble  in  alcohol  and  ether,  and  loses  at 
103.3  C.  (218°  F.)  38.5  per  cent,  (the  salt  with  6II20,  34.2  per  cent.)  of  water,  the  remain- 


1080 


NICCOLI  SULPHAS. 


ing  molecule  of  water  being  expelled  above  250°  C.  (482°  F.).  The  solution  of  nickel 
sulphate,  on  being  mixed  with  a saturated  solution  of  ammonium  sulphate  in  excess, 
gives  a precipitate  of  nickel-ammonium  sulphate,  (NH4)2Ni(S04)2.6H20.  This  salt  is  blue- 
green,  almost  insoluble  in  solutions  of  alkali  sulphates,  but  soluble  in  about  8 parts  of 
water ; it,  like  the  sulphate,  is  largely  used  for  the  electro-plating  of  iron,  copper,  and 
other  metals  with  nickel. 

Allied  Salts  and  Metallic  Nickel. — Niccoli  carbonas — Nickel  carbonate,  E. ; Carbonate  nic- 
colique,  Fr. ; Nickelkarbonat,  G. — It  is  pale-green  or  blackish-green,  of  variable  composi- 
tion, and  is  prepared  by  precipitating  the  solution  of  a nickel  salt  with  sodium  or  potassium 
carbonate. 

Niccoli  Bromidum. — Nickel  bromide,  E. ; Bromure  de  nickel,  Fr, ; Nickelbromlir,  G.  NiBr2- 
3H20  ; mol.  weight  272. — It  is  prepared  by  digesting  nickel  with  bromine  and  water,  or  by  dis- 
solving nickel  carbonate  in  hydrobromic  acid  and  crystallizing.  It  crystallizes  in  green  deli- 
quescent needles  or  prisms,  which  are  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  and  water  ; the  latter  solution 
on  exposure  is  decomposed,  depositing  nickel  hydroxide. 

Niccoli  CHLORiDUM. — Nickel  chloride,  E.;  Chlorure  de  nickel,  Fr. ; Nickelchlorlir.  G. — The 
hydrated  salt  is  green,  very  deliquescent,  and  contains  6H20  = 45.4  per  cent.  The  anhydrous 
chloride  is  yellow,  or,  in  the  presence  of  cobalt,  has  a green  tint;  it  sublimes  in  yellow  lustrous 
scales. 

Nickel  is  a malleable  metal,  resembling  silver  in  color  and  lustre.  It  is  attracted  by  the  mag- 
net, has  the  density  8.8,  melts  at  a somewhat  lower  temperature  than  iron  or  cobalt,  does  not 
readily  tarnish  on  exposure,  and  is  but  little  attacked  by  dilute  acids.  The  sesquioxide,  Ni203, 
and  its  hydrates  are  black  or  black-brown,  and  dissolve  in  acids  with  the  evolution  of  oxygen. 
The  monoxide,  NiO,  is  greenish-gray  or  yellowish-gray ; its  hydrate  is  a green  crystalline  pow- 
der, and  its  salts  are  likewise  gre’en,  or  in  the  anhydrous  state  yellow,  and  have  a slight  acid 
reaction.  The  solution  of  the  acetate  gives  a black  precipitate  with  hydrogen  sulphide ; other 
nickel  salts  with  ammonium  sulphide.  Alkalies  and  alkali  carbonates  produce  green  or  pale- 
green  precipitates,  which  dissolve  in  ammonia  with  a blue,  and  in  ammonium  carbonate  with  a 
greenish-blue,  color.  Potassium  ferrocyanide  produces  greenish-white  precipitates ; potassium 
cyanide,  a similar  precipitate  soluble  in  excess  of  the  cyanide  ; and  if  to  this  solution  caustic 
soda  and  chloride  be  added  and  heat  applied,  a precipitate  of  black  nickel  hydroxide  is  produced 
(difference  from  cobalt).  A concentrated  solution  of  oxalic  acid  precipitates  nearly  all  the  metal 
as  nickel  oxalate  from  simple  salts,  but  not  from  solutions  of  the  double  salts. 

Action  and  Uses. — In  1852,  Simpson  stated  that  this  preparation  appeared  to  act 
as  a gentle  tonic,  that  it  does  not  occasion  nausea  and  vomiting  like  the  sulphates  of  zinc 
and  copper,  and  that  its  action  and  that  of  manganese  were  comparable  to  the  action  of 
iron.  He  reported  the  cure  by  it  of  inveterate  periodical  neuralgia  of  the  face  after  it 
had  resisted  iron,  quinine,  and  many  other  medicines.  He  prescribed  it  in  doses  of  from 
\ to  1 grain  three  times  a day  ( Month . Jour,  of  Med.  Sci.,  3d  Ser.,  vi.  136).  In  1869, 
Broadbent  attributed  the  cure  of  anaemia  and  amenorrhoea  to  the  chloride  of  nickel  in 
2-grain  doses  {Trans.  Clin.  Soc.  Lond .,  ii.  125).  By  Bernatzik  it  was  compared  to 
cerium,  and  by  Schuhhardt  to  iron  and  manganese  ( Arzneimittellehre , ii.  106,  283).  Dr.  J. 
M.  DaCosta  (pamphlet,  1883)  found  that  in  doses  of  5 grains  the  sulphate  caused  giddi- 
ness as  well  as  nausea,  but  no  such  soporific  effect  as  had  been  attributed  to  it.  The 
doses  employed  by  him  varied  from  1 to  3 grains.  He  thought  that  it  relieved  the  pains 
of  rheumatism,  checked  diarrhoea,  and  allayed  irregularity  due  to  valvular  disease  of  the 
heart.  In  some  instances  it  appeared  to  him  beneficial  in  chronic  gastric  catarrh.  It 
was  of  no  use  in  night-sweats  nor  in  typhoid  fever.  In,  1886  Dr.  H.  A.  Hare  ( Therap. 
Gaz.,  x.  297)  from  experiments  on  the  lower  animals  concluded  that  the  bromide  of 
nickel  is  soporific  anaesthetic — that  it  suppresses  spinal  reflexes  and  motility,  lowers  the 
force  and  frequency  of  the  heart’s  beats,  and  arrests  that  organ  when  directly  applied  to 
it.  As  these  effects  are  widely  different  from  those  of  other  nickel  salts,  and  as  they  are 
identical  with  those  produced  by  familiar  bromine  compounds,  the  conclusion  seems  to  be 
justified  that  the  metallic  base  of  such  nickel  compounds  can  have  little  to  do  with  their 
remedial  action.  Nickel  bromide,  used  by  Dr.  DaCosta  in  doses  of  from  5 to  10  grains, 
seemed  to  him  to  exert  the  peculiar  power  of  other  bromides  and  in  smaller  doses.  In 
several  cases  it  suspended  epileptic  seizures  after  the  failure  to  do  so  of  the  alkaline 
bromides.  He  found  that  it  slightly  lowered  the  temperature,  affected  the  pulse  but 
little  if  at  all,  did  not  act  on  the  bowels  or  the  skin,  and  perhaps  increased  the  urine  a 
little.  He  concluded  that  “ its  effect  on  the  nervous  system  is  that  of  a sedative,  with 
out,  however,  producing  a weakening  or  depressing  influence.”  Dr.  Leaman,  who 
obtained  substantially  the  same  results,  estimated  that  ten  grains  of  the  nickel  salt  were 
equal  in  efficacy  to  30  grains  of  potassium  bromide.  He  found  it  most  efficient  when 
the  fits  took  place  regularly  at  long  interval,  and  that,  especially  when  given  as  a gran- 
ular effervescent  salt,  it  disordered  the  digestion  less  than  the  alkaline  bromides  {Med. 


NIG  ELLA. — NITR  OBENZEN  VM. 


1081 


News,  xlvi.  427).  On  the  other  hand,  Bourne ville  found  that  it  did  not  diminish,  but 
increased  the  epileptic  attacks  (. Practitioner , xliii.  208). 

NIGELLA. — Fennel-Flower. 

Faux  cumin,  Fr.  ; Schwarzkiimmel.  G. 

The  seeds  of  Nigella  sativa,  Linne , and  of  Nig.  damascena,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Ranunculaceae,  Helleboreae. 

Origin. — Both  plants  are  annuals,  indigenous  to  Southern  Europe  and  the  Levant. 
They  have  finely-divided  leaves  like  fennel ; the  second  species  has  also  a similar  involu- 
cre. The  fruit  consists  of  five  united  follicles,  which  contain  numerous  seeds.  Both 
plants  are  cultivated  in  gardens,  and  are  known  respectively  as  nutmeg-flower  and  ragged 
lady. 

Description. — The  seeds  are  about  2.5  Mm.  (yL  inch)  long,  triangular*ovate,  rough, 
of  a dull-black  color,  internally  white,  contain  a fleshy  albumen  enclosing  a small  straight 
embryo,  and  have  a somewhat  acrid  taste.  When  rubbed  the  seeds  exhale  a peculiar 
odor,  that  of  the  first  species  being  camphoraceous  and  resembling  cajeput,  while  that 
of  the  second  species  resembles  the  odor  of  strawberries.  The  latter  are  sometimes  sold 
as  magnolia-seeds ; they  differ  from  the  former  also  in  being  rounded  at  the  angles  and 
having  the  testa  deeply  netted-wrinkled. 

Constituents. — Reinsch  (1841)  obtained  from  the  seeds  N.  Sativa  35  per  cent,  of 
fixed  oil,  which,  according  to  Fliickiger  (1871)  contains  myristin,  palmitin,  and  stearin. 
The  volatile  oil  is  lighter  than  water,  colorless,  shows  a blue  fluorescence,  has  an  odor 
different  from  that  of  the  seed,  and,  according  to  Fliickiger,  consists  of  a terpene  and  of 
the  compound  C20H24O.  Reinsch’s  nigellin  is  an  extract-like  yellow  mass  having  the  con- 
sistence of  turpentine  and  a bitter  taste.  H.  Gr.  Greenish  (1880)  isolated  melantnin, 
which  is  nearly  insoluble  in  water,  ether,  benzene,  benzin,  and  carbon  disulphide,  very 
soluble  in  alcohol,  is  acrid,  foams  similar  to  parillin,  consists  of  C2oH3307,  and  by  acids  is 
split  into  sugar  and  melantliigenin , C14H2302 ; both  principles  are  colored  dark-violet  by 
warm  sulphuric  acid  and  rose-red  by  cold  pure  sulphuric  acid.  Greenish  (1882)  observed 
that  the  seeds  of  N.  damascena  impart  fluorescence  to  petroleum  benzin.  A.  Schneider 
(1890)  recognized  this  principle  as  a crystalline  alkaloid  damascenine,  present  to  the 
extent  of  about  0.1  per  cent.,  and  the  salts  of  which  are  not  fluorescent. 

Action  and  Uses. — Nigella  is  closely  analogous  in  its  properties  to  coriander, 
anise,  and  cumin,  and  like  them  is  used  in  the  East  as  a condiment  for  food,  and 
medicinally  as  a carminative,  aphrodisiac,  emmenagogue,  galactagogue,  diuretic,  and 
expectorant. 

NITROBENZENUM. — Nitrobenzene. 

Oil  of  mirbane , E. ; Nitrobenzene , Essence  de  mirbane,  Fr. ; Mirbanbl,  G. 

Formula  C6H3N02.  Molecular  weight  122.75. 

Preparation. — Benzene  is  added  in  small  portions  to  warm  fuming  nitric  acid,  when 
a violent  action  takes  place  and  a dark-red  liquid  is  formed,  which  is  mixed  with  water 
and  the  oily  precipitate  washed  with  the  same  liquid.  100  parts  of  benzene  yield  between 
135  and  140  parts  of  nitrobenzene. 

Properties. — Nitrobenzene  is  a yellowish  oily  liquid  having  the  spec.  grav.  1.209 
crystallizing  in  needles  at  3°  C.  (37.4°  F.),  and  boiling  at  205°  C.  (401°  F.).  It  has  a 
strong  odor  resembling  that  of  oil  of  bitter  almond — hence  the  incorrect  name  artificial 
oil  of  bitter  almonds — a sweet  taste,  and  dissolves  in  concentrated  sulphuric  and  nitric 
acids,  and  in  all  proportions  in  alcohol  and  ether.  In  its  alcoholic  solution  it  is  readily 
converted  into  aniline  through  the  influence  of  nascent  hydrogen. 

The  different  benzenes  yield  also  different  nitro-products.  One  has  the  specific  gravity 
1.19,  boils  between  210°  and  220°  C.  (410°  and  428°  F.),  and  has  a cinnamon-like  or 
unpleasant  fatty  odor,  which  is  still  more  unpleasant  in  nitrobenzene  boiling  between 
225°  and  335°  C.  (437°  and  455°  F.). 

Pharmaceutical  Uses.-^The  low-boiling  nitrobenzene  is  often  used  for  scenting 
soaps  and  in  various  perfumes  as  a tolerably  good  substitute  for  the  more  costly  oil  of 
bitter  almond,  which  is  sometimes  adulterated  with  it  (See  Ol.  Amygd.  Amar^),  but  its 
most  important  use  is  in  the  manufacture  of  aniline  (see  page  211). 

Action  and  Uses. — Numerous  cases  have  been  published  of  poisoning  by  nitro- 
benzene— sometimes  by  its  being  swallowed,  sometimes  by  the  inhalation  of  its  fumes, 


1082 


NITROGENII  MONOXIDUM. 


and  sometimes  by  its  application  to  the  skin.  Boehm  collected  42  cases,  of  which  14 
were  fatal  (1883),  Elaberg  says  that  34  per  cent,  die ; and  White  observed  about  50 
(Practitioner,  xliii.  14),  but  does  not  state  their  issue.  A remarkable  illustration  of  the 
potency  of  this  poison  is  furnished  by  several  cases  of  females  affected  by  the  odor  of 
the  so-called  “ almond  glycerin  soap,”  and  by  that  of  a person  who,  by  usihg  such  a 
soap  in  a warm  bath,  fainted  from  the  the  effects  of  nitrobenzene  set  free  by  the  heat, 
and  was  ill  for  some  time  afterward.  A case  is  also  recorded  of  a man  who,  having 
used  a liniment  containing  this  product  in  the  treatment  of  scabies,  became  partially 
paralyzed,  while  his  head  was  drawn  back,  and  his  face,  hands,  mouth,  and  pharynx 
were  all  cyanosed,  and  the  breath  and  matters  vomited  smelled  of  bitter  almonds.  In 
this  case,  as  in  some  others,  the  blue  tint  remained  for  at  least  a week.  The  pulse  is 
generally  small  and  frequent.  The  sight  is  sometimes  cloudy.  The  symptoms  produced 
in  man  are  identical  with  those  observed  in  animals,  except  the  purple  color  of  the  skin, 
which  appears  to  be  due  in  part  to  venous  congestion,  but  in  part  also  to  the  inability 
of  the  blood  to  absorb  oxygen.  This  condition  of  the  blood  helps  to  explain  the  dys- 
pnoea which  attends  some  cases  of  poisoning  by  this  substance,  and  also  the  extreme  cya- 
nosis, which  so  far  surpasses  both  in  degree  and  duration  that  which  is  due  to  merely 
asphyxiating  causes.  The  opinion  that  this  blue  color  of  the  skin  is  in  part  due  to  the 
presence  of  aniline  derived  from  the  decomposition  of  the  nitrobenzene  in  the  body  is 
ascribed  by  Filehne  to  an  error  of  manipulation  by  which  anilin  was  developed.  The 
lesions  found  post-mortem  are  tarry  dark  blood,  congested  lungs,  heart  and  brain,  etc. 
In  one  case  the  liver  is  described  as  being  of  a deep-purple  color.  All  these  phenomena 
and  lesions  support  the  conclusion  of  Lewin  ( Virchow' s Archiv,  lx'xv. ; 443),  that  the  poi- 
sonous action  of  nitrobenzene  depends  upon  its  destructive  effect  upon  the  red  blood-cor- 
puscles, which  prevents  the  supply  of  oxygen  essential  to  life.  This  opinion  seems  more 
probable  than  that  the  symptoms  are  primarily  due  to  the  action  of  the  poison  on  the 
nervous  system,  as  maintained  by  T.  Prosser  White.  Whether  recovery  or  death  occur, 
the  peculiar  odor  of  nitrobenzene  persists  for  many  days.  The  probable  fatal  dose  of 
nitrobenzene  may  be  stated  to  be  between  a few  drops  and  2 drachms. 

The  only  disease,  so  far  as  we  are  informed,  in  which  the  preparation  has  been  used  is 
scabies , but  its  dangerous  effects  from  accidental  conditions,  and  the  case  of  poisoning  by 
it  in  this  very  disease  to  which  reference  has  been  made,  ought  to  exclude  it  altogether 
from  medical  practice. 

In  poisoning  by  nitrobenzene  the  proper  remedies  consist  of  emetics  to  remove  the  poi- 
son in  the  stomach,  and  of  stimulants,  internally  and  externally,  carbonate  of  ammonia, 
electricity,  artificial  respiration,  the  hot  bath,  and  a simultaneous  cold  douche  upon  the 
head  and  spine,  friction  of  the  skin,  etc.  Oil  and  alcohol,  which  dissolve  the  poison,  are 
contraindicated. 

Nitropentane  has  been  the  subject  of  some  physiological  experiments.  In  dogs  and 
cats,  when  the  inhalations  were  continued  from  eight  minutes  to  one  hour,  convulsions 
began  to  occur  which  gradually  increased  in  intensity  until  they  passed  into  true  epilep- 
sy. The  peristaltic  movements  of  the  intestines  were  quickened  and  the  faeces  were 
evacuated.  The  urine  was  also  discharged;  sometimes  the  saliva  flowed  profusely,  and 
the  pupils  were  dilated.  The  pulse  was  not  materially  affected,  and  the  vessels  of  the 
pia  mater  underwent  no  change  during  the  inhalation  (Schadow). 

NITROGENII  MONOXIDUM.— Nitrous  Oxide. 

Laughing  gas,  E. ; Oxyde  nitreux,  Protoxyde  d' azote,  Fr. ; Stickstoffoxydid,  Lachgas,  G. 

Formula  N20.  Molecular  weight  43.98. 

Origin. — Nitrous  oxide  was  first  obtained  by  Priestly  (1772)  by  acting  upon  nitric 
oxide  with  moist  iron  filings ; he  also  noticed  that  ignited  bodies  burn  in  this  gas  with  a 
brighter  flame  than  in  atmospheric  air.  The  composition  of  the  gas  was  determined  by 
Deimann  and  Troostwijk  (1793),  who  prepared  it  from  ammonium  nitrate.  II.  Davy 
(1800)  observed  its  exhilarating  effects. 

Preparation. — Ammonium  nitrate  which  is  absolutely  free  from  chloride  is  gradually 
heated  to  about  200°  C.  (392°  F.),  when  the  decomposition  commences,  and  the  heat  may 
be  slowly  increased.  The  salt  yields  then  water  and  nitrous  oxide,  without  other  products 
of  decomposition ; NH4N03  yields  2H20-FN20.  The  gas  is  passed  through  a little  warm 
water,  which  will  retain  any  undecomposed  salt  or  other  product  without  retaining  much 
of  the  gas.  (For  other  precautions  in  the  preparation  of  this  gas  refer  to  the  decomposi- 
tion of  Ammonii  Nitras,  on  page  190. 


NITR  0 GENII  MONOXID  UM. 


1083 


Properties. — Nitrous  oxide  is  a colorless  gas  of  a very  slight  agreeable  odor  and  a 
sweetish  taste.  It  has  the  specific  gravity  1.6  (Dalton),  and  a liter  of  it  at  0°  C.  (32° 
F.)  weighs  1.97  Gm.  It  is  not  inflammable,  but  supports  the  combustion  of  ignited 
bodies,  which  burn  more  vigorously  than  in  the  open  air.  By  the  aid  of  pressure  and 
cold  it  may  be  condensed  into  a thin,  very  mobile,  colorless  liquid,  which  at  a tempera- 
ture of  about  — 100°  C.  (—  148°  F.)  congeals  to  colorless  crystals.  The  gas  is  soluble 
in  water,  alcohol,  ether,  volatile  and  fixed  oils. 

Nitrous  Oxide  Water. — The  solubility  of  nitrous  oxide  in  water  has  been  determined 
by  Carius  (1855)  as  follows:  Water  absorbs  at  a barometric  pressure  of  .76  meter  and  a 
temperature  of 

0°  5°  10°  15°  20°  25°  C., 

1.3052  1.0954  .9196  .7778  .6700  .5963  measures  of  the  gas. 

Such  an  aqueous  solution,  prepared  under  a pressure  of  about  five  atmospheres,  has 
been  employed  under  the  name  of  oxygenous  aerated  water. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  primary  effect  of  inhaling  nitrous  oxide  gas  is  stimula- 
tion of  the  whole  system  ; a tingling  sensation  is  felt  all  over  the  body,  the  senses  seem 
unnaturally  acute,  the  pulse  becomes  stronger  and  more  frequent,  the  breathing  is  more 
rapid  and  shallow,  and  the  face  grows  pale.  If  the  inhalation  is  interrupted  at  this 
period  a lively  intoxication  is  developed.  It  was  formerly  the  custom  to  have  semi-pub- 
lic exhibitions  of  this  appropriately  called  “ laughing  gas,”  in  which  one  of  the  most 
familiar  phenomena  was  a high  degree  of  mental  excitement,  generally  exhibited  in 
rhapsodical  declamation  or  singing,  but  sometimes  also  in  a sudden  fit  of  violent  pug- 
nacity, which  subsided  abruptly  when  the  vapor  had  exhaled.  But  if  the  inspiration  is 
not  interrupted,  the  breathing  in  about  one  and  a half  minutes  begins  to  be  stertorous ; 
at  the  same  time  the  pallor  of  the  face  is  replaced  by  a cyanotic  hue,  and  complete 
unconsciousness  and  anaesthesia  ensue.  Without  a renewal  of  the  inhalation  it  does  not 
last  more  than  a minute  or  two.  Unlike  ether  or  chloroform,  it  is  apt  to  occasion  rhythmical 
movements,  muscular  twitching,  or  even  rigidity.  Like  ether  it  sometimes  causes  hys- 
terical or  erotic  manifestations.  In  general,  feeble  persons  are  more  quickly  affected  than 
the  strong — children,  females,  and  the  aged  more  speedily  than  adult  males. 

The  number  of  deaths  due  to  the  administration  of  this  gas  is  surprisingly  small  when 
compared  with  those  following  chloroform,  and  even  ether,  and,  as  in  the  case  of  the 
latter  agent,  they  may  always,  or  nearly  so,  be  fairly  ascribed  to  the  special  condition 
of  the  patient  or  to  the  mode  of  administration  of  the  anaesthetic.  According  to  the  sta- 
tistics of  Darin,  53  deaths  occurred  in  152,260  administrations  of  chloroform,  or  1 : 
2872;  4 in  92,815  of  ether,  or  1 : 23,203;  and  3 in  300,000  of  gas,  or  1 : 100,000,  one 
of  which  was  due  to  an  accident — namely,  the  falling  of  a cork  into  the  air-passages. 
In  a case  that  occurred  in  Paris,  1884,  death  took  place  by  syncope  during  the  extrac- 
tion of  a tooth  (Brit.  Med.  Jour.,  Jan.  24,  1885).  A similar  one  happened  in  Montreal 
in  1890,  under  like  conditions  (Med.  Record , xxxviii.  103).  In  1889  one  occurred  in 
England  under  conditions  that  should  have  forbidden  the  use  of  any  anaesthetic  ( Lancet , 
Oct.  1889,  p.  804).  Other  ill  effects  have  occasionally  been  noticed ; e.  g.  coma  of  sev- 
eral days’  duration,  hemiplegia,  temporary  catalepsy,  or  hysteria,  clonic  convulsions,  etc. 
It  sometimes  also  produces  a transient  albuminuria  or  even  glycosuria,  according  to 
Lafont,  but  the  statement  has  not  been  confirmed  ( University  Med.  Mag.,  ii.  428).  Ac- 
cording to  Dr.  Silk’s  analysis  of  1000  cases  in  which  this  anaesthetic  was  administered, 
no  serious  accident  occurred  in  any  ( Lancet , June,  1890,  p.  1327). 

Nitrous  oxide  has  been  used  in  surgical  operations,  but  chiefly  in  those  requiring  a 
comparatively  short  time  for  their  performance.  Teeth  have  been  extracted  with  its  aid 
in  cases  innumerable  in  this  country  and  in  Europe,  and  whoever  has  experienced  its 
effects  must  be  satisfied  with  its  efficiency  and  convenience.  All  surgical  operations  which 
can  be  quickly  completed,  from  the  opening  of  abscesses  to  the  operation  for  cataract, 
have  been  successfully  performed  with  its  aid ; and  in  numerous  instances  it  has  sufficed 
for  operations  lasting  from  fifteen  to  twenty  minutes.  Dr.  J.  M.  Barton  has  illustrated 
the  great  aid  it  gives  to  the  surgeon  in  examining  fractures,  dislocations,  etc.  He  notes 
particularly  the  muscular  relaxation  that  remains  after  the  anaesthesia  has  passed  off. 
(Phila.  Med.  Times.,  xvi.  108).  In  1865,  Ziegler  of  Philadelphia  proposed  the  inhalation 
of  this  gas  for  a variety  of  disorders,  the  chief  of  which  were  nervous  and  asthenic,  and 
included  neuralgia , anaesthesia,  hypochondria,  insomnia,  etc.,  and  it  was  so  employed  soon 
afterward  by  Dr.  Benjamin  Lee  (Med.  Record,  xvii.  494).  It  did  not,  however,  seem  to 
find  many  advocates.  In  1880  attention  was  directed  to  it  anew  by  Drs.  Blake  and 


1084 


NUX  VOMICA. 


Hamilton  (Med.  Record , xvii.  118;  Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour .,  May,  1880,  p.  469). 
In  all  of  these  instances  the  exhilarating,  and  not  the  anaesthetic,  action  of  the  gas  was 
sought,  and  it  was  believed  to  act  as  a stimulant  of  the  nervous  system  and  the  heart, 
very  much  as  a moderate  dose  of  alcohol  does.  It,  however,  did  not  retain  its  vogue. 
Nitrous  oxide  has  also  been  employed  as  an  anaesthetic  in  labor.  According  to  Klike- 
witsch,  four  or  five  inhalations  abolish  sensation,  but  not  consciousness ; it  involves 
neither  danger  nor  inconvenience,  and  may  be  administered  by  an  intelligent  nurse  ( Med . 
Record,  xxi.  514).  He  has  more  recently  used  a mixture  of  80  parts  of  this  gas  with 
20  of  oxygen,  and  Zweifel  administered  it  continuously  during  the  latter  stage  of  labor. 
It  did  not  at  all  retard  this  process  (. Med . News,  xlvii.  598). 

Mr.  Woodhouse  Braine,  comparing  the  several  anaesthetics  in  use,  says : “Of  all 
anaesthetics,  the  quickest  and  safest,  but  the  most  difficult  to  administer  really  well,  is 
nitrous  oxide ; deep  snoring  and  an  insensitive  conjunctivitis  are  the  best  signs  of  in- 
sensibility.” No  age  and  hardly  any  physical  condition  forbids  its  use  ( Times  and  Gaz ., 
Nov.  1884,  p.  758.)  The  nostrils  being  closed,  the  gas  may  be  inspired  from  the 
reservoir  in  which  it  is  collected  or  from  caoutchouc  bags  through  a tube  and  mouth- 
piece furnished  with  valves  opening  outward  to  permit  the  breathed  air  to  escape  during 
expiration.  It  is  also  kept  in  wrought-iron  vessels  in  a highly  condensed  or  even  a 
liquid  state,  and  may  thus  be  conveniently  transported  from  place  to  place. 

Bert  proposed  to  prevent  the  “asphyxia”  produced  by  nitrous  oxide  by  mixing  85 
parts  of  this  gas  with  15  of  oxygen  in  a chamber  filled  with  compressed  air.  Several 
surgical  operations  of  considerable  duration  were  successfully  performed  under  these 
circumstances  {Bull,  et  Mem.  de  la  Soc.  de  Therap .,  1879,  p.  71).  Others  have  experi- 
mented in  the  same  direction  (Witzinger,  Centralbl.  f.  Med.,  vi.  96 ; Hewett,  Lancet , 
Apr.  1889,  p.  832),  but  without  notable  advantage. 

NUX  VOMICA,  V.  S.,  Br.— Nux  Vomica. 

Semen  strychni,  P.  Gr.  ; Semen  nucis  vomicae. — Poison-nut , Quaker  buttons , E. ; Noix 
vomique , Fr.  Cod.  ; Krdhenaugen , Brechuuss,  Gr.  ; Nuez  vomica,  Sp. 

The  seeds  of  Strychnos  Nux  vomica,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  178. 

Nat.  Ord. — Loganiaceae. 

Origin. — The  tree  has  a short,  thick,  often  crooked  trunk,  opposite,  oval,  glossy,  three- 
to  five-nerved  leaves,  and  small,  funnel-shaped  whitish  flowers  in  small,  terminal,  panicu- 
late cymes ; the  smooth, 
orange-colored  berry  is 
globular,  and  contains  about 
five  seeds.  The  tree  is  com- 
mon in  many  parts  of  Hin- 
dostan,  Farther  India,  some 
of  the  East  India  Islands, 
and  as  St.  Lucida,  R.  Brown , 
is  also  found  in  Northern 
Australia.  All  parts  of  the 

, „ , . , , , , plant  possess  a bitter  taste, 

JNuxvomica:  surface  with  raphe ; longitudinal  section,  showing  albumen  and  1 , 1 i ii 

embryo;  and  transverse  section,  showing  central  cavity.  and  are  proDaDly  pOlSOnOUS  . 

the  bark  has  at  one  time 

been  sold  in  place  of  angustura-bark  (see  page  211).  The  white,  gelatinous  pulp  of  the 
fruit,  it  has  been  stated,  is  eaten  in  India  by  birds ; it,  however,  contains  strychnine 
( Pharmacogr aphid ).  The  seed  is  the  only  official  portion. 

Description. — Nux  vomica  is  in  the  form  of  an  orbicular  disk  25  Mm.  (1  inch)  or 
less  in  diameter,  and  4 to  6 Mm.  (4  to  i inch)  thick,  nearly  flat,  or  convex  on  one  side 
and  concave  on  the  other,  with  the  margin  frequently  thickened.  The  surface  is  of  a 
grayish  or  greenish-gray  color,  and  has  a slight  silky  lustre  from  the  closely-appressed 
soft  hairs,  directed  toward  the  circumference  and  forming  a soft  ridge  on  the  edge. 
Where  the  hairs  have  been  rubbed  off  the  dull-brownisli  testa  becomes  visible.  On 
the  concave  side  is  a slight  ridge  running  from  the  hilum  to  a point  on  the  circumfer- 
ence, where  the  radicle  is  located.  The  thin  testa  encloses  a yellowish -gray,  some- 
what translucent,  horny,  and  very  hard  albumen  (endosperm),  which  is  of  the  same 
form  as  the  seed,  but  has  within  it  a large,  flat,  circular  cavity.  After  softening  the 
seed  in  hot  water  the  edge  may  be  readily  trimmed  down  with  a knife  and  the  albumen 
split  into  two  disks,  which  were  united  with  each  other  merely  on  the  margin  to  the 


NUX  VOMICA. 


1085 


width  of  about  2 Mm.  (A^  inch).  The  embryo  is  about  9 Mm.  (f  inch)  long,  and  has 
a thick,  club-shaped  radicle  and  a pair  of 
pale-greenish  delicately  seven-nerved,  heart- 
shaped  cotyledons  5 Mm.  (A  inch)  in  length, 
and  projecting  into  the  circular  cavity.  The 
seed  is  inodorous,  but  possesses  a persist- 
ently bitter  taste. 

Nux  vomica  is  very  difficult  to  powder, 
owing  to  the  horny  condition  of  the  albu- 
men. The  powdering  is  considerably  facili- 
tated by  drying  the  entire  seeds  for  two  or 
three  days  and  breaking  them  up  into  sev- 
eral pieces,  which  are  again  dried  for  sev- 
eral days  by  means  of  warm  air.  and  then 
reduced  to  powder  of  the  desired  fineness. 

If  a drug-mill  with  chilled  iron  grinding- 
plates,  admitting  of  regulation  as  to  differ- 
ent degrees  of  fineness,  be  used,  much  labor 
may  be  saved  in  the  final  powdering  in  an 
iron  mortar  provided  with  a heavy  pestle. 

Powdered  nux  vomica  is  of  a light  gray- 
greenish  color. 

Constituents. — The  horny  nature  of  nux  vomica  is  probably  due  to  protein  com- 
pounds, of  which  it  contains  about  11.3  per  cent.  {Pliarmacogr aphid).  Gummy  matter, 
fat,  sugar,  and  igasuric  acid,  besides  the  alkaloids,  are  also  contained  in  it.  The  acid  was 
discovered  by  Pelletier  and  Caventou  (1819),  and  by  Holm  (1873)  was  regarded  as  a 
kind  of  tannin  ; the  latter  obtained  it  as  an  amorphous,  yellowish-wThite  mass  of  a strongly 
acid  and  somewhat  astringent  taste  ; its  solution  is  colored  dark-green  by  ferric  salts, 
precipitated  yellow  by  lead  acetate,  and  rapidly  reduces  an  ammoniacal  solution  of 
silver. 

The  bitter  and  poisonous  alkaloids  strychnine  and  brucine  are  the  medically  important 
constituents  of  nux  vomica,  and  are  present  in  variable  quantity  ; Hunstan  and  Short 
(1883)  analyzed  seven  different  commercial  samples,  in  which  the  total  amount  of  alka- 
loids varied  between  2.74  per  cent,  in  small  Madras  nux  vomica  and  3.90  per  cent, 
in  large  silky  Bombay  nux  vomica.  (For  an  account  of  the  first  alkaloid,  which  is 
present  to  the  amount  of  1 to  ^ per  cent.,  see  the  article  Strychnina  in  this  work.) 

Brucine,  C23H26N204,  likewise  varies  in  quantity;  Merck  obtained  only  0.12,  Wittstein 
0.5,  Mayer  1.10  per  cent. ; by  the  latter  it  was  estimated  by  means  of  potassio-mercuric 
iodide,  and  the  presence  of  igasurine  (see  below)  was  not  taken  into  account.  The  alkaloid 
was  discovered  by  Pelletier  and  Caventou  (1819)  in  the  false  angustura-bark,  which  was 
then  supposed  to  be  derived  from  Brucea  antidysenterica,  Miller , an  Abyssinian  shrub.  It 
is  one  of  the  by-proditfcts  of  the  manufacture  of  strychnine,  and  is  obtained  from  the 
mother-liquor  and  alcoholic  washings  by  neutralizing  them  with  sulphuric  acid,  evapor- 
ating to  crystallization,  removing  the  mother-liquor,  purifying  the  crystals  by  treatment 
with  animal  charcoal,  precipitating  with  ammonia,  and  recrystallizing  from  boiling  80  per 
cent,  alcohol ; it  contains  then  4H20.  The  anhydrous  alkaloid  dissolves  in  850  parts  of 
cold  and  500  parts  of  boiling  water  (Pelletier  and  Caventou),  while,  according  to  Duflos, 
the  crystallized  alkaloid  requires  only  320  and  150  parts  of  water  respectively.  It  is 
soluble  in  7 parts  of  chloroform  (Schlimpert),  in  1.5  parts  of  alcohol,  and  in  70  parts  of 
glycerin  (Cap  and  Garot).  It  is  soluble  also  in  ammonia,  creosote,  amylic  alcohol,  and 
very  slightly  so  in  benzin,  volatile  and  fixed  oils,  and  is  insoluble  in  ether.  It  fuses  in  its 
water  of  crystallization  at  a little  over  100°  C.  (212°  F.),  and  the  anhydrous  alkaloid, 
according  to  Claus  and  Roehre  (1881),  at  178°  C.  (352.4°  F.),  yielding  a colorless  liquid  : 
at  a higher  heat  it  burns,  leaving  voluminous  charcoal.  In  contact  with  strong  nitric 
acid  brucine  acquires  a blood-red  color,  which  changes  to  orange,  and  finally  yellow ; if 
now  stannous  chloride  be  added,  a beautiful  violet-red  is  produced.  A similar  color  is 
obtained  by  using  sulphurous  acid,  and  lustrous  brick-red  needles  are  formed  by  using 
ammonium  sulphide  in  place  of  stannous  chloride.  These  reactions  are  not  interfered 
with  by  the  presence  of  a little  strychnine.  A number  of  the  colored  compounds 
thus  produced  appear  to  possess  little  stability;  but  Roehre  (1878,  1881)  isolated  the 
red  compound,  which  is  dinitrobrucine , forms  a bright  vermilion-red  amorphous  powder, 
and  is  insoluble  in  ether,  very  sparingly  soluble  in  alcohol,  but  freely  soluble  in  water. 


Fig.  191. 


Nux  Vomica:  section  through  hilum  and  albumen, 
magnified  65  diameters. 


1086 


NUX  VOMICA. 


The  end-product  of  the  reaction  of  nitric  acid  upon  brucine  was  ascertained  by  Strecker 
(1854)  to  be  a weak  base,  kalcotelme , C20H2.2N4O5,  which  forms  orange-colored  scales 
insoluble  in  water,  but  dissolving  with  a yellow  color  in  ammonia,  becoming  green  and 
brown  on  heating.  Commercial  brucine  generally  contains  traces  of  strychnine,  as  proven 
by  Cownley  (1876)  and  Shenstone  (1877),  and,  according  to  the  latter,  may  be  completely 
freed  from  it  by  partial  precipitation,  brucine  being  precipitated  from  its  solutions  by 
strychnine. 

Igasurine  was  discovered  by  Desnoix  (1854)  by  concentrating  the  filtrate  and  washings 
of  the  lime  precipitate  in  the  decoction  of  nux  vomica.  The  crystals  thus  obtained  are 
stated  by  Schiitzenberger  (1858)  to  be  a mixture  of  not  less  than  nine  different  alkaloids, 
which  he  distinguished  by  prefixing  to  igasurine  the  letters  a,  b,  e,  etc.  However, 
Jorgensen  (1871)  and  Shenstone  (1877, 1881)  found  the  supposed  igasurine  to  be  impure 
brucine,  though  it  is  not  unlikely  that  one  or  more  other  alkaloids  may  be  present.  (See 
Strychnina.) 


Other  Species  of  Strychnos. — Strychnos  Tieute,  Leschenault , is  indigenous  in  Java;  the 
seeds  closely  resemble  nux  vomica,  but  are  smaller  and  whiter  in  color.  The  decoction  of  the 
root-bark,  evaporated  to  an  extract,  is  the  principal  ingredient  of  the  arrow-poison,  upas-tieute ; 
it  contains  strychnine  and  brucine. 

Str.  potatorum,  Linn#,  is  indigenous  to  India.  The  seeds  are  subglobose,  brownish-gray  in 
color,  and  of  an  insipid  not  bitter  taste.  They  do  not  contain  strychnine,  and  are  used  in  India 
as  clearing  nuts  for  cleansing  muddy  water,  also  in  diabetes  and  as  an  emetic.  In  1871  they 
were  sent  to  the  United  States  as  Indian-gum  nuts. 

Str.  colubrina,  Limit.  This  yields  the  true  lignum  colubrinum , in  place  of  which  the 
branches  of  the  nux  vomica  tree  are  often  sold  in  India.  It  differs  from  the  latter  in  being  more 
crooked  and  knotty  ; the  wood  is  harder  and  darker  colored  ; the  bark  has  bright  rust-colored 
warts,  is  thicker,  and  has  more  scattered  stone-cells  of  a bright-yellow  color.  All  parts  of  the 
plant  are  bitter  and  poisonous  ; the  wood  was  found  by  Pelletier  and  Caventou  to  contain  strych- 
nine and  brucine. 

Str.  Gaulthieriana,  Pierre.  The  bark  is  used  in  China  as  hoang-nan ; it  resembles  nux- 
vomica  bark,  but  is  thinner,  blackish-gray,  more  verrucose,  and  upon  transverse  section  shows 
more  irregular  striae  and  fewer  stone-cells ; it  contains  strychnine  and  brucine. 

Akazga — M'boundou , Boundou , Ikaju , or  Quai — is  a shrubby  plant  indigenous  to  the  equa- 
torial region  of  Western  Africa,  and  appears  to  be  a hitherto  unknown  species  of  Strychnos. 
The  dense  hard  wood  is  covered  with  a firmly-adhering  bark  having  sometimes  numerous  yellow 
tubercles,  of  a yellowish-orange  or  light-red  color,  with  a light-brown  inner  surface,  and  charac- 
terized by  a continuous  layer,  three  or  four  cells  deep,  of  indurated  parenchyma.  The  leaves 
are  opposite  and  oval-acuminate  in  shape.  The  seeds  are  subglobular,  downy,  and  consist  of 
albumen,  with  a central  cavity  into  which  the  embryo  with  its  five-ribbed  cotyledons  projects. 
The  bark  has  a strongly  bitter,  faintly  aromatic  taste,  and  a distinct  bitterness  is  also  perceived 
in  the  other  parts  of  the  plant. 

Thomas  R.  Fraser  (1867)  has  obtained  an  alkaloid,  akazgine , which  crystallizes  from  its  alco- 
holic solution,  is  readily  soluble  in  chloroform,  carbon  disulphide,  benzene,  and  ordinary  ether,  is 
colored  brown  by  concentrated  mineral  acids,  and  dissolves  in  dilute  acids,  yielding  colorless 
salts,  which  are  rather  less  persistently  bitter  than  strychnine  salts,  and  are  precipitated  by  the 
bicarbonates  of  potassium  and  sodium  ; the  precipitates  occurring  with  the  usual  reagents  for 
alkaloids  are  not  crystalline.  Heckel  and  Schlagdenhauffen  (1881)  obtained  from  the  drug  an 
alkaloid  having  the  color-reactions  of  strychnine. 

(See  also  Curare.) 


Fig.  192. 


Allied  Drug. — Ignatia,  U.  S.  1880  (Semen  Ignatioe,  Faba  Ignatii). — Bean  of  St.  Ignatius,  E. ; 
F&ve  de  Saint-Ignace,  Fr.  Cod. ; F&ve  igasurique,  Fr. ; Ignazbohne,  G. ; Haba  de  San  Ignacio, 
Sp. — Strychnos  Ignatia,  Lindley  (Str.  Ignatii,  Bergius , s.  Str.  philippensis,  Blanco , s.  Ignatiana 
philippinica,  Loureiro , s.  Ignatia  amara,  Linn6  films').  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 179. 

This  is  a large  climbing  shrub  indigenous  to  the  Philippine  Islands  and  natural- 
ized in  Cochin  China,  with  opposite  ovate  leaves  and  an  oblong  or  subglobular 
berry-like  fruit  having  a brittle  pericarp  and  containing  a'bout  twenty-four  seeds 
imbedded  in  a bitter  pulp.  The  seeds  are  from  25-31  Mm.  (1  to  14  inches)  long, 
12-20  Mm.  (4  to  ^ inch)  broad,  oblong,  ovate  or  roundish-ovate  in  shape,  by 
mutual  pressure  irregularly  angular ; the  hilum  is  on  one  of  the  edges  in  a 
small  depression,  and  the  surface  of  the  seeds  is  of  a dull  reddish-gray  or 
brownish,  when  old  even  blackish,  color,  and  granular  or  partly  covered  by  gray 
or  light-brown  silky  hairs.  Ignatia  consists  of  a very  hard,  horny  albumen, 
which  is  of  the  shape  of  the  seeds  and  translucent  at  the  edges,  and  surrounds 
an  irregular  cavity.  The  embryo  projects  into  this  cavity,  and  consists  of  a 
rather  long  radicle  and  oblong-ovate  acute  cotyledons.  The  seeds  break  under 
the  hammer  with  a granular  and  irregular  fracture,  and  soften  after  prolonged 
digestion.  They  are  inodorous  and  have  a very  persistent  bitter  taste.  Pelletier 
and  Caventou  (1819)  found  the  seeds  to  contain  the  same  constituents,  though 
in  different  proportions,  as  nux  vomica;  they  stated  the  yield  of  strychnine  (still  containing 


Ignatia:  vertical 
section  of  seed. 


NYMPHJEA. 


1087 


brucine)  to  be  1.4  per  cent.  Geiseler  (1837)  likewise  found  1.5  per  cent,  of  this  alkaloid.  F.  F. 
Mayer  (1863),  on  assaying  ignatia  with  his  solution,  obtained  from  2 troy  ounces  of  the  seeds 
4.5  grains  of  strychnine  and  13.73  grains  of  brucine,  which  correspond  to  0.52  per  cent,  of  the 
former  and  1.43  per  cent,  of  the  latter.  The  dried  seeds  yield  1.78  per  cent,  of  nitrogen,  indi- 
cating about  10  per  cent,  of  albuminoids  ( Pharmacographia ). 

Action  and  Uses. — The  action  and  uses  of  nux  vomica  are  identical  in  kind  with 
those  of  strychnine,  and  will  be  treated  of  in  connection  with  the  latter.  It  may  be 
mentioned  in  this  place,  however,  that  the  action  of  nux  vomica  is  too  variable  to  render 
it  eligible  as  a medicine.  It  may  be  prescribed  in  the  dose  of  Om.  0.06-0.30  (gr.  i-v) 
three  times  a day,  and  gradually  increased  from  the  minimum  quantity  until  its  charac- 
teristic effects  begin  to  be  manifested.  The  extracts  and  the  tincture  are  best  adapted 
for  its  administration. 

Ignatia. — This  may  be  used  like  nux  vomica,  its  dose  ranging  from  Gm.  0.03-0.10 
(gr.  ss-ij). 

Hoang-nan. — Dr.  Livon  has  made  some  experiments  upon  animals  with  a bark  brought 
from  Thibet,  from  which  is  prepared  lioang-nan , and  which  contains  brucine.  Vulpian 
(Les  Substances  toxiques , etc.,  p.  613)  declares  that  on  frogs,  at  least,  the  action  of  hoang- 
nan  is  identical  with  that  of  strychnine  and  brucine.  The  conclusions  of  this  eminent 
investigator  and  of  Galippe  in  regard  to  the  preparation  as  a medicine  agree  with  what 
we  have  drawn  from  the  published  records  concerning  it  (Lisserteur,  1879;  Piffard  ; 
Barthelemy,  etc.),  “ The  reports  of  its  virtues  are,  to  say  the  least,  greatly  exaggerated. 
As  to  its  use  in  rabies,  one  must  have  an  inordinate  dose  of  credulity  to  believe  in  it  as 
a cure  of  this  terrible  affection.”  Several  reports  upon  the  subject  have  appeared  since 
the  last  edition  of  this  work,  but  they  do  not  modify  the  estimate  just  given.  That 
hoang-nan  is  a compound  medicine,  and  that  it  contains  arsenic,  may  very  well  account 
for  its  reported  efficacy  in  certain  diseases  of  the  skin,  and  even  in  leprosy. 

Akazga. — It  appears  from  the  narrative  of  Prof.  Frazer  of  Edinburgh,  who  carefully 
investigated  the  nature  and  action  of  akazga,  that  it  is  used  as  an  ordeal  inWest  Africa: 
“The  supposed  witch  is  obliged  to  drink  a certain  quantity  of  the  infusion  prepared  from 
the  bark,  and  to  step  over  a number  of  akazga-sticks  placed  parallel  to  one  another  at  the 
distance  of  2 feet.  If  this  can  be  done,  the  person  is  pronounced  innocent ; if  guilty, 
difficulty  is  experienced  in  stepping  over  the  sticks ; they  appear  like  large  logs,  to  sur- 
mount which  suitable  efforts  are  made,  and  these  are  rendered  more  and  more  difficult  by 
spasmodic  muscular  twitches,  until  the  victim  staggers,  and  ultimately  falls  in  tetanic  con- 
vulsions  In  those  cases  in  which  the  trial  is  successfully  undergone  a copious 

flow  of  urine  is  described  as  occurring,  and  by  this  means  the  poison  is  supposed  to  be 
removed.”  The  physiological  action  of  the  alcoholic  extract  of  akazga,  and  that  of  the 
alkaloid  akazgin,  correspond  to  those  of  nux  vomica  and  strychnine.  Each  grain  of  the 
alkaloid  is  equal  to  about  7 grains  of  the  extract  or  50  grains  of  the  dried  bark  in  physi- 
ological effects,  which  consist  essentially  of  tetanic  convulsions.  As  yet  no  therapeutical 
applications  appear  to  have  been  made  of  akazga  or  its  alkaloid. 

M’boundou  was  found  by  Testut  to  exhibit  different  modes  of  action  according  to 
its  dose,  the  smaller  doses  causing  convulsive,  the  larger  paralytic,  phenomena.  He 
therefore  concluded  that  it  contained  two  principles — the  one  exciting  the  reflex  function, 
the  other  paralyzing  it  (Amer.  Jour.  Phar.,  li.  323).  But  Heckel  and  Schlagendauffen 
inferred  that  its  only  active  constituent  is  strychnine,  and  that  it  occasions  tetanic  or 
paralytic  phenomena  according  to  the  dose  of  it  administered.  Their  conclusion  agrees 
with  the  previous  one  of  Bichet  {Bull,  de  Therap.,  c.  223),  and  is  confirmed  by  the  later 
observations  of  Vulpian  ( Cours  de  Pathol,  exper.,  p.  616),  who  found  in  experiments  upon 
frogs  that  a period  of  relaxation  preceded  the  convulsive  phenomena,  often  by  several 
hours  or  even  days. 


NYMPHiEA. — Water  Lily,  Pond  Lily. 

A enuphar,  Prune  d'eau,  Fr. ; Seerose,  Wasserlilie,  G. ; Ninfea , Ninfa , Sp. 

Nymphaea  Odorata,  Alton. 

Nat.  Ord. — Nymphaeaceae. 

Description. — The  Sweet-scented  water-lily  is  indigenous  to  North  America  and  has 
a horizontal  immersed  rhizome  about  5 Cm.  thick,  marked  on  the  upper  side  with  broad 
subcircular  or  oblong  leaf-scarfs,  and  on  the  lower  side  with  the  remnants  or  scars  of  the 
thick  fleshy  rootlets,  brown  externally,  yellowish-white  internally,  fleshy,  with  irregular 
wood-bundles ; after  drying  deeply  wrinkled,  spongy,  and  light.  It  is  without  odor,  and 


1088 


CE NO  THERA. 


has  a hitter  mucilaginous  somewhat  astringent  taste.  The  leaves  are  large,  orbicular- 
cordate,  and  entire;  the  flowers  are  10  or  12  Cm.  (4—5  inches)  broad,  many-petalous, 
white,  and  very  fragrant.  The  root  and  flowers  (petals)  have  been  employed. 

Allied  Plants. — Nymph^ea  alba,  Linn6 , the  European  water-lily,  resembles  the  preceding,  the 
flowers,  Nenuphar  blanc,  are  recognized  by  the  French  Codex. 

Nuphar  ad  vena,  Alton  (Nymphsea,  Michaux ),  Yellow  pond-lily,  Spatterdock.  The  leaves  are 
heart-shaped  at  the  base,  and  ovate  or  roundish  in  outline.  The  flowers  have  six  yellow  sepals 
and  numerous  small  yellow  petals,  which  resemble  the  stamens.  From  Colorado  westward  its 
place  is  taken  by  Nuphar  polysepalum,  Engelmann , which  has  eight  or  more  sepals  and  numer- 
ous short  dilated  petals.  The  rhizomes  of  these  species  and  of  the  European  N.  lutea,  De  Can- 
dolle (Nenuphar  jaune,  Fr.  Cod.),  resemble  that  of  Nymphata  in  size  and  structure. 

Constituents. — The  rhizome  of  Nymphsea  alba  was  examined  by  Morin  (1819)  and 
Carminati,  and  that  of  N.  odorata  by  Bigelow.  Tannin,  mucilage,  etc.  were  found,  but 
the  bitter  principle  was  not  isolated.  W.  Gruening  ( Thesis , Dorpat,  1881)  examined  the 
rhizome  and  seeds  of  Nymphaea  alba  and  of  Nuphar  luteum,  Smith.  The  principal  con- 
stituents are  tannin  and  gallic  acid,  besides  starch,  gum,  resin,  albumen,  etc.  The  alka- 
loids previously  observed  by  DragendorfF  were  obtained  amorphous ; that  from  Nymphaea 
was  pale  reddish-brown,  readily  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  and  diluted  acids  ; and  by  Frohde’s 
reagent  colored  red,  then  green.  Nupharine  is  white,  soft  above  40°  C.  (104°  F.),  easily 
soluble  in  alcohol,  chloroform,  ether,  amylic  alcohol,  acetone,  and  diluted  acids  ; on  heating 
the  solution  in  diluted  sulphuric  acid  in  a steam -bath,  it  gradually  turns  brown,  and  finally 
blackish-green.  The  alkaloids  appear  to  be  not  poisonous. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  root  of  our  native  pond-lily  is  astringent  and  demulcent, 
and  is  used  internally  for  the  cure  of  bowel  complaints , topically  in  cataplasm  for  ulcers , 
and  in  decoction  for  leucorrhoea  and  dysentery.  The  European  species,  N.  alba,  was  once 
reputed  to  be  anaphrodisiac,  and  the  juice  of  the  fresh  root  is  said  to  be  acrid,  and  even 
capable  of  reddening  the  skin.  An  ointment  prepared  with  it  is  used  to  stimulate  the 
scalp  when  the  hair  tends  to  fall  out. 

CENOTHER A. —Evening  Primrose. 

Onagre , Fr. ; Nachtkerze , G. 

(Enothera  biennis,  Linn6. 

Nat.  Ord. — Onagracese. 

Description. — This  very  variable  plant  is  common  throughout  North  America  in 
fields  and  waste  places,  and  has  been  naturalized  in  Europe.  It  has  a conical  root , which 
is  12  to  25  Mm.  (1-1  inch)  thick  at  the  base,  10  to  15  Cm.  (4-6  inches)  long,  with 
spreading  branches,  externally  pale-brown  or  sometimes  reddish,  with  a thin  bark,  inter- 
nally white,  fleshy,  inodorous,  of  a sweetish  taste,  and  in  the  second  year  woody  and 
tough.  The  stem  is  from  0.9— 1.8  M.  (3  to  6 feet)  high,  rough,  hairy,  often  purplish. 
The  leaves  are  alternate,  ovate-oblong  or  oblong-lanceolate,  7—12  Cm.  (3  to  5 inches)  long, 
somewhat  petiolate,  acute,  nearly  entire,  and  short-hairy.  The  Jlowers  are  in  terminal  leafy 
spikes,  have  a sessile  cylindrical  ovary  united  with  the  long  tubular  calyx,  four  obcordate 
yellow  petals,  and  eight  stamens,  and  produce  a four-valved  capsule  containing  numerous 
seeds.  The  herb  is  inodorous  and  has  a mucilaginous  and  mild  astringent  taste.  The 
root  and  the  flowering  plant  are  used. 

Constituents. — Biot  Chicoisneau  (1834)  found  the  plant  to  contain  much  mucilage  , 
his  oenotherin  was  a mixture  of  several  bodies,  which  have  not  been  separated  from  one 
another.  Braconnot  found  tannin  in  the  stem. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  late  Dr.  R.  E.  Griffith,  in  his  Medical  Botany,  after  speak- 
ing of  the  mucilaginous  and  acrid  qualities  of  the  herb  and  leaves,  states  that  he  made 
use  of  it  in  several  cases  of  infantile  eruptions  which  had  resisted  other  modes  of  treat- 
ment, and  became  satisfied  that  it  was  highly  beneficial — a judgment  which  his  subsequent 
experience  confirmed.  It  is  advised  that  about  the  flowering  season  the  small  twigs  with 
the  bark  of  the  large  branches  and  stem,  retaining  their  leaves,  should  be  dried  in  the 
shade.  Of  these  a strong  decoction  is  made,  with  which  the  eruptions  should  be  bathed 
several  times  a day.  It  has  also  been  used  in  diarrhoea  and  in  asthma.  We  are  not  ac- 
quainted with  any  later  and  confirmatory  reports  upon  this  plant. 


OLE  A DESTILL  ATA. 


1089 


OLE  A DESTILL  AT  A. — Volatile  Oils. 

Olea  setherea  s.  volatilia , JEtherolea. — Essential  ( ethereal  or  distilled ) oils , E. ; Huiles 
volatiles  ( etherees , essentielles , distillees ),  Essences , Fr. ; Fluchtige  ( AEtherische ) Oe/e,  Gr. 

Characters. — Volatile  oils  are  those  proximate  principles  to  which  in  the  majority 
of  cases  the  odor  of  plants  is  due.  They  have  no  chemical,  and  but  few  physical,  prop- 
erties in  common  with  the  fixed  oils,  but,  like  the  latter,  they  are  generally  soluble  in 
ether,  chloroform,  carbon  disulphide,  etc.,  and  when  dropped  upon  paper  leave  a stain 
resembling  that  produced  by  fat,  but  which,  unlike  the  latter,  disappears  upon  the  appli- 
cation of  heat.  Freshly-prepared  volatile  oils  are  generally  freely  soluble  in  petroleum 
benzin,  but,  according  to  Belohoubek  (1882),  after  exposure  and  partial  oxidation  yield 
with  this  solvent  a more  or  less  turbid  mixture.  Their  specific  gravity  usually  ranges 
between  0.85  and  0.99  ; a few  are  still  lighter,  and  some  are  heavier  than  water,  one 
reaching  the  specific  gravity  1.180.  All  are  inflammable  and  burn  with  a bright  but 
very  sooty  flame.  They  possess  the  odor  of  the  plants  from  which  they  have  been 
obtained,  but  are  usually  less  fragrant,  which  is  probably  due  to  the  presence  in  the 
plants  of  other  odoriferous  compounds,  perhaps  compound  ethers,  which,  being  more 
soluble  in  water,  are  removed  during  the  distillation  ; it  is  on  this  account  that  medicated 
waters  distilled  from  the  drug,  almost  without  exception,  possess  a more  agreeable  odor 
and  taste  than  when  prepared  from  the  volatile  oil. 

When  exposed  to  the  air  volatile  oils  become  ozonized,  and  are  more  or  less  rapidly 
converted  into  a viscid  oil  or  even  solid  resin  ; to  the  presence  of  ozone  is  due  their 
bleaching  effect  upon  corks,  indigo  solution,  etc.  (See  a paper  by  Dr.  J.  L.  Plummer  in 
# Amer.  Jour.  Phar .,  1853,  pp.  398  and  508 ; also,  1860,  p.  46.) 

Origin. — Volatile  oils  are  met  with  in  a large  number  of  plants,  and  may  exist  in 
every  part  thereof,  from  the  root  to  the  seed.  If  found  in  several  parts  of  the  same 
plant,  the  volatile  oils  obtained  from  them  generally  differ  more  or  less,  not  only  in  odor 
and  other  physical  properties,  but  frequently  also  in  chemical  composition.  They  are 
often  separated  in  the  plant  in  distinct  cells,  appearing  as  glands  in  the  herbaceous  por- 
tion, or  distributed  throughout  the  interior  tissue,  or  forming  tubes,  as  in  the  fruits  of  the 
Uinbelliferae.  Very  frequently  they  are  associated  with  resins,  and  even  exude  either 
naturally  or  from  incisions,  holding  resins  in  solution  (oleoresins  and  many  gum-resins). 
In  a number  of  plants  they  are  known  to  be  produced  under  the  action  of  a ferment,  like 
emulsin  and  myrosin,  upon  other  compounds,  such  as  amygdalin  and  myronic  acid ; but 
in  most  cases  it  has  been  impossible  to  demonstrate  either  the  precise  tissue  where  they 
are  produced  or  the  compounds  which  yield  them.  There  is,  however,  reason  to  believe 
that,  at  least  in  some  cases,  they  result  from  the  splitting  of  glucosides,  resins,  and  sim- 
ilar principles.  All  volatile  oils  yield  by  spontaneous  oxidation  resinous  compounds, 
which,  however,  have  thus  far  been  found  to  be  entirely  distinct  from  the  resins  with 
which  the  former  have  been  naturally  associated. 

Among  the  products  of  the  destructive  distillation  of  organic  bodies  compounds  are 
often  found  which  possess  the  general  characters  of  volatile  oils,  but  usually  have  an 
empyreumatic  odor  persistently  adhering  to  them  ; they  are  called  empyreumatic  volatile 
oils.  Odorous  compounds,  sometimes  known  as  ferment  oils  ( fermentolea ),  are  also  pro- 
duced during  the  fermentation  of  bruised  vegetables  or  their  expressed  juice  ; they  are 
probably  alcohols  or  compound  ethers. 

Preparation. — In  a few  instances,  where  the  volatile  oils  are  separated  in  cells  of 
the  epidermal  tissue  and  not  associated  with  resinous  or  fatty  matters,  as  in  the  fruits  of 
many  Aurantiaceae,  they  may  be  prepared  by  expressing  that  tissue  after  removing  it  by 
grating.  By  far  the  largest  number,  however,  require  to  be  distilled  with  water.  Her- 
baceous plants,  flowers,  and  leaves  which  are  not  of  a leathery  nature  usually  need  no 
previous  comminution,  but  firmer  parts  of  plants,  and  those  containing  the  volatile  oil  in 
the  inner  tissues,  must  be  more  or  less  ground  or  broken.  Though  fresh  plants  are 
usually  readily  softened  and  permeated  by  water,  a short  maceration  before  the  distilla- 
tion begins  is  rather  advantageous,  and  may  be  regarded  as  very  desirable  if  dried  plants 
are  employed ; it  is  unnecessary  in  case  the  volatile  oils  are  to  be  distilled  off  from  resin- 
ous compounds ; but  whenever  the  volatile  oil  does  not  pre-exist,  but  is  produced  by  the 
reaction  of  two  principles  in  the  presence  of  water,  a prolonged  maceration  in  cool  or 
lukewarm  water  is  required. 

The  distillation  is  accomplished  in  stills  made  of  copper  or  iron,  a sufficient  quantity  of 


1090 


OLE  A DESTILL  AT  A. 


water  being  introduced  to  cover  the  material  and  prevent  empyreuma ; the  latter  object 
is  more  completely  attained  if  a perforated  false  bottom  is  placed  a few  inches  above  the 
bottom  of  the  still  and  the  material  packed  upon  it.  Direct  heat  is  then  applied  until 
the  water  boils  briskly,  and  is  maintained  at  this  temperature  until  the  distillate  is  no 
longer  charged  with  volatile  oil.  Some  volatile  oils  are  obtained  of  better  quality  and 
greater  fragrance  if  the  direct  application  of  fire  to  the  still  is  avoided  and  the  volatiliza- 
tion is  accomplished  by  the  introduction,  near  the  bottom,  of  steam  under  pressure ; a 
wooden  tank  may  then  be  converted  into  a still  by  cutting  a suitable  aperture  in  the  top 
and  surmounting  it  with  a still-head.  Steam  distillation  is  particularly  applicable  for 
flowers  like  those  of  the  orange,  lavender,  chamomile,  etc.,  and  for  the  labiate  and  other 
herbs. 

Although  volatile  oils  have  a higher  boiling-point  than  water,  the  majority  boiling 
above  140°  0.  (284°  F.),  their  vapors  diffuse  readily  in  the  vapors  of  water  at  the  boil- 
ing temperature  of  the  latter,  and  are  thus  easily  carried  over.  Greater  difficulty,  how- 
ever, is  experienced  with  those  volatile  oils  which  have  either  an  exceptionally  high  boil- 
ing-point or  a specific  gravity  near  or  exceeding  that  of  water ; the  addition  to  the  water 
of  about  3 per  cent,  of  table-salt  is  then  advisable,  whereby  the  boiling-point  is  some- 
what raised,  and,  as  the  water  distils  over,  it  may  be  gradually  increased  to  about  109.5° 
C.  (229°  F.).  The  volatile  oils  of  cloves,  cinnamon,  santal-wood,  etc.  are  thus  more 
readily  obtained  than  with  water  alone. 


Ftg.  193. 


Fig.  194. 


Coliobation  is  the  returning  of  the  aqueous  distillate  from  which  the  volatile  oil  has 
been  separated,  either  upon  the  same  or  upon  fresh  portions  of  material,  and  distilling 
again.  The  process  is  rendered  necessary  with  cloves,  santal-wood,  etc.,  the  firm  tissue 
of  which,  containing  the  volatile  oils,  is  not  easily  ruptured  or  thoroughly  permeated  by 
water,  and  with  the  petals  qf  rose  and  similar  articles  which  contain  only  a minute  pro- 
portion of  volatile  oil. 

Separation. — On  cooling,  the  distillate  separates  into  two  layers,  one  being  a solution 
of  the  volatile  oil  in  water,  the  other  the  pure  oil.  A tall  cylinder  or  flask  is  used,  which 
near  the  bottom  has  a glass  or  other  tube  inserted  and  curved  upward  to  a short  distance 
below  the  top.  The  heavy  water  separating  at  the  bottom  will  commence  to  discharge 
through  the  lateral  tube  b as  soon  as  the  vessel  is  nearly  filled  with  the  distillate,  upon 
which  will  float  a layer  of  volatile  oil ; this  layer  may  be  withdrawn  by  means  of  a small 
siphon,  or,  better  still,  through  a lateral  tube  e inserted  near  the  top  of  the  vessel.  It  the 
volatile  oil,  however,  is  heavier  than  water,  the  conditions  will  be  reversed,  and  the  on 
will  flow  through  a and  run  off  at  b.  The  last  portions  of  volatile  oil  are  removed  from 
the  water  by  means  of  a separating-funnel  (Fig.  194),  the  separation  being  effected  with 
a perforated  glass  stopper  inserted  in  the  neck  or  by  inclining  the  vessel  (Fig.  194)  through 
the  tube  a . For  very  small  quantities  a bulb-pipette  or  syringe-pipette  will  be  found  use- 
ful, the  tube  of  which  is  drawn  out  to  a fine  point.  By  a suitable  arrangement  the  sep- 
arated odorous  water  may  be  returned  to  the  still  while  the  distillation  is  progressing. 

If  volatile  oils  are  present  only  in  minute  quantities,  frequent  cohobation  is  required, 
but  even  then  too  much  is  often  lost  by  being  retained  in  the  water,  as  in  the  case  of 


OLE  A DESTILL  A TA. 


1091 


violets,  tuberoses,  etc.  To  obtain  these  delicate  perfumes,  Millon  and  Commaille  (1868) 
employed  purified  bisulphide  of  carbon,  with  which  the  material  is  exhausted,  and  on  the 
spontaneous  evaporation  of  which  all  the  odoriferous  com- 
pounds are  left  behind. 

The  process  of  enfleurage  is  likewise  adapted  for  obtaining 
delicate  perfumes : A number  of  trays  or  frames  are  covered 
with  a layer  of  purified  tallow  or  other  inodorous  fat,  and 
then  with  flowers,  the  latter,  if  necessary,  being  replaced 
by  fresh  flowers  in  a few  days ; when  the  fat  is  sufficiently 
charged  with  the  perfume  it  constitutes  the  pommades  used 
by  perfumers.  Liquid  fats  may  be  used  in  a similar  manner 
for  extracting  such  perfumes,  the  liquid  portion  of  oil  of 
ben  being  employed,  because  it  resists  rancidity  for  a long 
time ; the  huiles  antiques  are  obtained  in  this  manner.  By 
digesting  the  solid  or  liquid  perfumed  fat  with  pure  alcohol 
the  odorous  principles  are  taken  up  by  the  latter,  the  spirit 
then  constituting  the  extracts  of  perfumers ; the  small  por- 
tion of  fat  entering  solution  separates  on  exposure  to  a low 
temperature. 

L.  Wolff  (1877)  proposed  a process  for  preparing  volatile 
oils  whereby  distillation  may  either  be  entirely  avoided  or 
materially  shortened.  Petroleum  benzin  dissolves  from  plants 
chiefly  the  volatile  and  fixed  oils  and  wax  which  are  left 
after  evaporating  the  solvent.  The  volatile  and  fixed  oils 
may  then  be  separated  either  by  distillation  with  water  or  by  agitation  with  alcohol, 
removing  the  fat  and  wax,  and  separating  the  volatile  oil  from  the  alcohol  by  mixing 
with  water. 

Rectification  is  not  unfrequently  desirable,  since  resinous  compounds  and  coloring  mat- 
ter may  thereby  be  removed  and  the  odor  improved  ; it  is  best  accomplished  by  mixing 
the  volatile  oil  with  half  of  its  own  weight  of  an  inodorous  liquid  fat,  and  distilling  the 
mixture  from  a solution  of  table-salt,  as  stated  above. 

Composition. — C and  H,  or  C,  H,  and  0,  are  the  elements  forming  the  large  major- 
ity of  the  volatile  oils ; a few  (oil  of  mustard,  asafetida,  etc.)  consist  of  sulphuretted 
compounds,  and  are  generally  characterized  by  a disagreeable  penetrating  odor ; some 
others  (oil  of  bitter  almonds,  cherry-laurel,  etc.)  contain  hydrocyanic  acid,  from  which, 
however,  they  may  be  freed  without  otherwise  altering  their  composition  or  modifying 
their  odor.  The  first  class  mentioned,  the  hydrocarbons,  are  mostly  terpenes , consisting  of 
two  or  more  isomeric  modifications  having  the  composition  of  C,0H16  or  a multiple  thereof. 
The  oxygenated  volatile  oils  likewise  consist  proximately  of  at  least  two  principles,  boil- 
ing at  different  temperatures.  The  one  having  the  lowest  boiling-point  is  called  elreopten 
and  very  often  is  a hydrocarbon  of  the  composition  C10H)r,  or  C,0Hh-  Stearopten  is  that 
portion  which  volatilizes  last  and  congeals  at  about  the  ordinary  temperature  ; in  composi- 
tion it  is  not  unfrequently  an  oxide  or  hydrate  of  the  hydrocarbon.  The  stearopten  of 
oil  of  rose  is  a hydrocarbon,  CnH2n,  and  has  a lower  boiling-point  than  the  fragrant  oxy- 
genated portion.  Stearoptens — or  camphors , as  they  are  sometimes  called — crystallize 
from  the  volatile  oils  on  exposure  to  a low  temperature,  the  crystallizing-point  depending 
partly  on  the  fusing-point  of  the  stearopten  and  partly  on  the  amount  of  the  solvent 
elaeopten.  The  variation  in  the  proportion  of  the  two  proximate  constituents  is  due  to 
the  influence  of  climate,  soil,  and  cultivation,  and  modifies  to  some  extent  the  effect  upon 
polarized  light. 

The  color  of  volatile  oils  appears  to  be  due  to  distinct  compounds.  Piesse  (1863) 
separated  from  oil  of  wormwood,  patchouly,  etc.  a volatile  dark-blue  body,  azulene  (accord- 
ing to  Gladstone  [1863]  coeruleiri ),  of  the  composition  C16H260,  which  he  stated  to  be 
present  in  all  blue-colored  volatile  oils,  while  those  having  a different  color  are  free  from 
it  or  contain  it  in  smaller  proportion,  mixed  with  more  or  less  of  yellow  or  brown  resin. 

Preservation. — Since  volatile  oils  oxidize  when  in  contact  with  air,  and  the  oxida- 
tion is  accelerated  in  the  light,  they  should  be  kept  in  well-stopped  vessels  protected 
from  the  light.  Various  contrivances,  which  readily  suggest  themselves,  have  been  recom- 
mended. Bottles  of  amber-colored  glass,  which  excludes  the  actinic  rays,  are  very  suit- 
able ; and  the  addition  of  a small  quantity  of  alcohol,  which  in  our  experience  need  not 
exceed  3 per  cent.,  will  prevent  for  a long  time,  if  not  the  oxidation,  at  least  the  marked 
change  of  odor,  which  oils  of  orange,  lemon,  peppermint,  and  others  undergo.  Menigaut 


Fig.  195. 


1092 


OLE  A PING  TJIA. 


as  early  as  1835  proposed  for  the  same  purpose  the  addition  of  an  equal  weight  of 
alcohol. 

Restoration. — Resinified  volatile  oils,  the  flavor  of  which  has  not  been  impaired, 
may  be  restored  to  their  former  limpidity  by  rectification  (see  above).  Small  quantities 
of  such  volatile  oils  Curieux  (1858)  recommended  to  be  agitated  for  fifteen  or  twenty 
minutes  with  a magma  formed  by  mixing  solution  of  borax  with  animal  charcoal,  when 
the  resinified  portion  will  unite  with  the  borax,  leaving  the  oil  limpid  and  the  odor  restored. 

Adulterations. — Among  the  numerous  methods  which  have  been  recommended  for 
detecting  the  principal  adulterations  to  which  volatile  oils  are  subject,  the  following  are 
simple,  reliable,  and  easily  executed: 

(a)  Fixed  oils  are  indicated  by  the  permanent  greasy  stain  left  upon  paper  or  by  the 
residue  left  on  distilling  the  suspected  oil  with  water.  Since  the  fats  are  mostly  insoluble, 
and  the  volatile  oils  mostly  soluble  in  85  per  cent,  alcohol,  this  solvent  will  leave  the 
former  behind ; minute  quantities  of  fixed  oils,  however,  will  escape  detection  by  this 
method. 

( b ) Alcohol  will  cause  a diminution  of  the  volume  of  the  volatile  oil  when  this  is  agi- 
tated with  an  equal  bulk  of  water  or  glycerin  (according  to  Hager,  1888,  diluted  with  20 
per  cent,  of  water),  in  a graduated  tube;  the  difference  indicates  approximately  the 
amount  of  the  adulteration.  If  olive  oil  is  used  in  place  of  water,  the  alcohol,  unless 
present  in  a very  small  quantity,  will  separate.  Fused  calcium  chloride  and  dry  potas- 
sium acetate  are  insoluble  in  volatile  oils,  but  in  the  presence  of  alcohol  become  either 
soft  or  liquid.  Tannin,  which  has  been  recommended  for  the  same  purpose,  is  soluble  in 
oil  of  bitter  almonds,  cinnamon,  and  a few  others.  Dragendorff  recommends  metallic 
sodium,  which  produces  a brisk  evolution  of  gas  in  the  presence  of  even  5 or  10  per  cent, 
of  alcohol,  while  hydrocarbons  are  not  at  all,  and  oxygenated  oils  but  slightly,  acted  on 
in  the  cold.  Aniline-red  is  soluble  in  alcohol  and  insoluble  in  volatile  oils,  but  if  the  oils 
contain  alcohol  they  are  colored  red  by  the  dry  aniline  color. 

(c)  Cheap  volatile  oils  are  often  difficult  to  detect.  On  rubbing  a few  drops  of  the 
volatile  oil  between  the  hands,  or  heating  them  gradually  in  a dish,  or  evaporating  them 
from  bibulous  paper,  and  observing  the  odor  from  time  to  time,  a marked  difference  of  it 
is  indicative  of  such  adulteration.  The  hydrocarbons  being  mostly  cheaper  and  less 
freely  soluble  in  85  per  cent,  alcohol  than  the  oxygenated  oils,  an  adulteration  with  the 
former  will  generally  be  recognized  by  the  solvent  mentioned. 

The  solubility  of  santal-red  in  some  volatile  oils  (Voget),  the  different  reaction  of  these 
oils  with  iodine  (Tuchen),  the  change  of  color  produced  on  heating  oxygenated  volatile 
oils  with  a little  nitro-prusside  of  copper,  and  the  prevention  of  this  reaction  by  oil  of 
turpentine  and  other  hydrocarbons  (Heppe,  1856),  and  the  behavior  of  the  volatile  oils 
toward  strong  mineral  acids,  potassa,  bromine,  sulphide  of  lead,  and  other  chemicals, — 
may,  at  least  occasionally,  be  utilized  for  the  purpose  of  detecting  adulterations.  (See 
Proceedings  Amer.  Phar.  Assoc .,  1858,  p.  344,  and  1859,  p.  338.) 

OLEA  PINGUIA.— Fixed  Oils. 

Fats,  Fatty  oils,  E. ; Huiles  grasses,  Huiles  fixes,  Fr. ; Fette,  Fette  (Fie,  Gr. 

Characters. — Fats  are  peculiar  compounds  obtained  both  from  the  animal  and  the 
vegetable  kingdom.  In  their  pure  state  they  are  often  colorless,  inodorous,  and  tasteless. 
Many  are  liquid  at  the  ordinary  temperature  {oils  or  fixed  oils  proper),  but  by  cautious 
cooling  may  generally  be  separated  into  fats  of  different  fusibility.  Others  have  a soft 
consistence  { fats  proper,  or  butters ),  and  mostly  yield  liquid  fats  when  subjected  to  a 
gradually  increased  pressure,  while  a fat  of  a higher  fusing-point  remains  in  the  press- 
cloth.  Those  of  a firmer  consistence  are  sometimes  termed  tallows,  and  when  hard  and 
more  or  less  brittle  at  the  common  temperature  they  are  often  popularly  and  commer- 
cially known  as  waxes.  They  are  all  lighter  than  water,  and  vary  in  specific  gravity 
generally  between  .913  and  .956,  though  some  are  as  light  as  .860.  They  are  insoluble 
in  water,  sparingly  soluble  in  cold  alcohol,  but  generally  freely  soluble  in  ether,  chloro- 
form, carbon  disulphide,  benzene,  and  light  petroleum  oils.  The  hot  alcoholic  solution  of 
the  solid  fats  separates  them  on  cooling,  generally  in  a crystalline  form.  When  heated, 
the  solid  fats  fuse  to  transparent  oils  and  solidify  again  on  cooling.  Heintz  observed  that 
by  raising  the  heat  very  slowly  some  fats  show  two  fusing-points,  which  for  pure  stearin 
were  found  at  55°  C.  (131°  F.)  and  71.6°  C.  (160.9°  F.),  and  also  two  congealing-points, 
the  latter  depending  upon  the  temperature  to  which  the  fat  had  been  heated  and  upon 
the  rapidity  with  which  it  had  cooled,  After  having  been  heated  considerably  beyond 


OLEA  PING  VIA. 


1093 


the  fusing-point  some  solid  fats  remain  liquid  for  a long  time  after  cooling;  at  a higher 
temperature,  usually  in  the  neighborhood  of  300°  C.  (573°  F.),  an  ebullition  is  observed, 
accompanied  by  decomposition,  the  boiling-point  gradually  rises,  and  extremely  acrid  and 
irritating  vapors  are  evolved,  causing  a copious  flow  of  tears,  and  containing  acrolein. 
(See  Glycerin,  p.  779.) 

Fats  are  more  or  less  unctuous  to  the  touch,  and  when  in  a liquid  condition  dropped 
upon  paper  leave  a permanent  grease-spot  unless  they  are  crystalline  and  so  hard  that 
they  may  be  rubbed  off.  They  are  not  inflammable  at  the  ordinary  temperature,  but 
when  heated  to  incipient  decomposition  burn  more  or  less  readily  by  the  aid  of  wick  and 
with  a sooty  flame.  When  their  surface  is  considerably  increased  by  being  spread  over 
porous  bodies  they  are  rapidly  oxidized,  whereby  the  heat  may  be  increased  to  such  an 
extent  as  to  ignite  the  entire  mass. 

Origin. — All  plants,  and  perhaps  all  parts  of  plants,  contain  fat,  though  often  in 
minute  quantity.  The  liquid  and  solid  fats  are  most  likely  generated  from  starch  and 
other  carbohydrates  and  allied  compounds;  De  Luca  (1862)  proved  that  the  fixed  oil  of 
olives  increases  in  quantity  as  the  mannit  of  the  green  olives  disappears,  and  that  the  access 
of  air  and  light  facilitates  the  conversion.  It  is  not  unlikely  that  certain  protein  com- 
pounds may  likewise  be  the  source  of  fats.  In  the  animal  economy  fats  are,  at  least 
partly,  produced  in  a similar  manner. 

Preparation. — From  animal  tissues  rich  in  fat  the  latter  is  obtained  by  fusion  either 
by  itself  or  in  the  presence  of  water,  and  removal  of  the  tissue  by  skimming  or  straining. 
Vegetable  tissues  containing  notable  quantities  of  fat  yield  it  on  being  subjected  to  pow- 
erful pressure,  either  at  the  ordinary  temperature  or  between  plates  which  are  heated  to 
a little  beyond  the  fusing-point  of  the  fat;  but  since  a certain  quantity  of  the  fat  i,s 
mechanically  retained  by  the  tissues,  a larger  yield  is  had  by  the  use  of  a solvent,  such 
as  carbon  disulphide  or  petroleum  benzin,  which  on  being  distilled  off  leaves  the  fat 
behind.  When  the  bruised  or  cut  vegetables  are  boiled  with  water,  the  fused  fat  rises  to 
the  surface,  and  may  either  be  skimmed  off  or  obtained  by 
straining,  expression,  and  subsequent  separation  from  the  water  ; 
such  fats  are  usually  inferior  to  those  obtained  from  the  dried 
article  by  pressure  alone. 

Purification. — The  impurities  contained  in  fats  are  protein 
and  mucilaginous  compounds  derived  from  the  vegetable  tissue, 
and  may  be  removed  through  a well-dried  filter ; the  filtration 
is  facilitated  by  a somewhat  elevated  temperature.  An  appara- 
tus suitable  for  this  purpose,  and  for  filtering  through  flannel 
in  an  upward  direction  and  under  pressure  of  a column  of  the 
oil,  was  constructed  by  W.  R.  Warner  (1861) : A is  the  reser- 
voir containing  the  oil ; B,  the  recipient  of  the  filtered  oil.  On 
the  large  scale  the  purification  is  effected  by  the  gradual 
addition  to  the  oil  of  i to  2 per  cent,  of  sulphuric  acid, 
whereby  the  impurities  are  carbonized  ; the  oil  is  then  agitated 
with  water  to  remove  adhering  acid,  decanted,  and  often  filtered 
through  charcoal,  or  through  tow,  moss,  or  similar  material, 
upward  filtration  being  preferred.  The  use  of  sulphuric  acid 
for  the  purification  of  oils  was  introduced  in  England  by 
Gowen  (1790).  Chloride  of  zinc  has  a similar  effect,  accord- 
ing to  R.  Wagner,  if  used  in  concentrated  solution,  1 to  11 
per  cent,  being  required  ; and  Barreswill  (1858)  recommended 
for  the  same  purpose  the  saponification  of  a small  proportion 
of  the  fat  by  means  of  a weak  solution  of  potassa  or  soda. 

From  1 to  2 per  cent,  of  ammonia  will  often  be  effectual,  and 
as  mechanical  agents  for  separating  the  impurities  powdered 
clay  and  plaster  of  Paris  have  been  found  to  serve  a good  pur- 
pose. The  loss  sustained  in  purification  varies  with  the  nature 
and  amount  of  the  impurities,  and  in  some  cases  reaches  15  or 
20  per  cent,  of  the  crude  oil. 

Bleaching. — The  treatment  of  fats  with  sulphuric  acid 
usually  destroys  also  the  coloring  matter  wholly  or  in  part ; treatment  with  animal  char- 
coal renders  the  fats  lighter,  and  many  are  bleached  (and  often  become  rancid)  by  exposure 
to  the  direct  sunlight,  a strip  of  lead  being  sometimes  introduced  into  the  fat  if  liquid,  or 
this  is  occasionally  agitated  with  an  aqueous  solution  of  ferrous  sulphate.  Palm  oil  is 


Fig.  196. 


1094 


OLE  A PING  ITIA. 


bleached  by  being  rapidly  heated  to  240°  C.  (464°  F.)  and  keeping  it  at  this  temperature 
for  ten  minutes.  The  same  effect  is  produced  upon  oil  of  poppy-seed  by  heating  it  for  five 
hours  to  between  90°  and  95°  C.  (194°  and  203°  F.)  Oxidation  of  the  coloring  principle 
by  means  of  permanganic  or  chromic  acid  or  hypochlorites  has  likewise  been  recommended. 

Composition. — Nearly  all  animal  and  vegetable  fats  are  mixtures  of  two  or  more 
fats  having  a different  fusing-point ; those  which  are  liquid  at  the  ordinary  temperature 
separate  in  the  cold  granular  masses  of  the  solid  fats  contained  in  them,  while  those  which 
are  solid  at  the  common  temperature  often  yield  by  expression  a liquid  oil.  With  com- 
paratively few  exceptions,  fats  are  compound  ethers  of  the  triatomic  alcohol  glycerin  (see 
page  778),  and  the  acids  contained  in  them  belong  to  two  series,  the  fatty  acid  group  of  the 
general  formula  CnH2u02,  and  the  oleic  acid  group  of  the  formula  CnH2n_202.  The  most  im- 
portant members  of  the  first  group  are  stearic  (C18H3602),  palmitic  (C16H3202),  myristic 
(C14H2802),  lauric  (C12H2402),  and  butyric  (C4H802)  acids.  To  the  second  group  belong, 
besides  oleic  acid  (C18H;u02),  erucic  (C22H4202)  and  hypogseic  (C16H30O2)  acids,  the  former 
being  found  in  oil  of  mustard,  the  latter  in  oil  of  ground-nut.  Ali  these  acids  are  mono- 
basic, and  the  neutral  fats  therefore  contain  3 molecules  of  the  acid  to  1 of  the  ether 
radical,  C3H5;  these  compounds  are  conveniently  named  from  the  acid  by  changing  the 
termination  to  in;  thus  stearin  or  tristearin  is  C3H5.(C]8H3502)3,  and  olein  or  triolein  has 
the  formula  C3H5.(C18H3302)3.  , The  fats  most  widely  distributed  are  olein,  stearin,  pal- 
mitin,  myristin,  and  laurin,  which  are  inodorous  when  pure,  while  the  fats  of  the  volatile 
acids  have  a distinct  odor,  the  most  important  being  butyrin.  Fats  which  on  exposure  to 
air  gradually  solidify  through  the  absorption  to  oxygen,  the  so-called  drying  oils , are  sup- 
posed to  contain  o?m,  the  composition  of  which  is  not  known  ; the  drying  fat  of  linseed 
oil  has  been  named  linolein. 

The  fusing-points  of  the  above-named  pure  fats  are  as  follows:  Stearin,  55°  C.  (131°  F.); 
palmitin,  48°  C.  (118.4°  F.)  ; myristin,  31°  C.  (87.8°  F.)  ; laurin,  44°  C.  (111.2°  F.).  The 
margarin  of  older  chemists  is  a mixture  of  palmitin  and  stearin;  olein  and  butyrin  are 
liquid  at  common  temperatures. 

Preservation. — Fats  should  be  kept  in  a dry  place  at  a low  temperature,  and  pro- 
tected from  light  and  air.  On  being  exposed  to  the  atmosphere  the  fats  gradually  become 
rancid,  and  this  change  is  accelerated  by  the  presence  of  animal  and  vegetable  tissue,  pro- 
tein, and  mucilaginous  compounds;  hence  the  importance  of  careful  purification.  The 
rancidity  is  due  to  the  generation  of  odorous  compounds,  perhaps  some  acrolein  and  vola- 
tile fatty  acids,  besides  some  coloring  matter.  Rancid  fats  may  be  improved,  and  to  a 
certain  extent  restored,  by  washing  with  warm  water  or  by  treating  them  with  magnesia 
or  other  weak  alkali,  and  afterward  washing  them  well.  Treatment  with  strong  alcohol 
or  agitation  of  the  oil  with  a little  powdered  borax  and  exsiccated  sodium  carbonate  has 
likewise  been  recommended. 

Adulterations. — The  higher-priced  fats  are  not  unfrequently  adulterated  with 
cheaper  ones,  and,  owing  to  the  similarity  of  composition,  such  admixtures  are  difficult 
to  recognize.  A change  of  the  fusing-point  in  the  solid  and  of  the  congealing-point  in 
the  liquid  fats  is  not  unfrequently  produced  by  addition  of  other  fats,  and  other  criteria 
are  afforded  by  the  color,  consistence,  odor,  and  taste,  sometimes  also  by  the  specific  grav- 
ity. The  non-drying  oils  when  subjected  to  the  influence  of  nitrous  acid  become  solid, 
the  olein  being  converted  into  the  solid  isomeric  compound  elaidin , which  fuses  beiween 
25°  and  28°  C.  (77°  and  82°  F.),  and  solidifies  again  on  cooling.  The  test  is  made  by 
agitating  for  a short  time  1 part  of  copper  in  small  pieces  with  about  5 parts  each  of 
nitric  acid  and  the  oil,  and  setting  the  mixture  aside;  the  separation  of  elaidin  commences 
in  about  an  hour,  and  the  solidification  is  generally  completed  in  about  6 hours.  Almond 
oil  and  olive  oil  are  scarcely  colored  thereby,  but  become  opaque ; the  drying  oils  (linseed, 
poppy-seed,  hemp-seed,  and  nut  oils)  remain  liquid,  while  the  following  become  thicker, 
but  not  solid : castor,  cotton-seed,  sunflower-seed,  and  benne-seed  oil,  the  latter  acquiring 
also  a red  color. 

On  carefully  placing  a drop  of  oil  or  oleoresin  upon  the  surface  of  chemically  pure 
water  contained  in  a perfectly  clean  glass  vessel,  distinct  figures  are  formed,  which  were 
termed  cohesion-figures  by  C.  Tomlinson  (1864),  and  which  have  a distinct  character  for 
the  different  liquids.  These  cohesion-figures  have  been  recommended  as  a means  of  iden- 
tifying the  liquids,  and  possibly  also  of  determining  the  presence  of  admixtures. 

The  character  of  the  soda  soap  may  likewise  serve  to  indicate  an  adulteration  with  dry- 
ing oils ; for  this  purpose  the  oil  is  agitated  with  one-third  of  its  weight  or  more  of  soda 
solution,  specific  gravity  1.33  (containing  30  per  cent.  NaOH),  and  the  mixture  boiled 
until  saponification  has  been  effected ; after  cooling,  the  soap  of  the  drying  oils  will  be 


OLEANDER. 


1095 


soft,  and  should  oils  of  Cruciferae  (mustard,  etc.)  have  been  present,  the  aqueous  filtrate 
will  impart  a black  color  to  paper  moistened  with  solution  of  lead  acetate,  owing  to  the 
sulphur  present  in  the  oil.  The  melting-point  of  the  mixed  fatty  acids  separated  from 
the  soap  by  hydrochloric  acid  has  been  suggested  by  0.  Bach  (1883)  as  a means  for  recog- 
nizing the  purity  of  the*  fats ; the  results  with  the  acids  were  as  follows : 


From  cotton-seed  oil,  melting  at  38°  C.,  congealing  at  35°  C. ; 


n 

sesame  oil, 

“ 

35°  C., 

u 

ll 

32.5°  C, 

a 

ground-nut  oil, 

u 

a 

33°  C., 

ll 

ll 

31°  C.; 

n 

olive  oil, 

a 

ti 

26.5°-28.5°  C., 

ll 

ll 

22°  C. ; 

a 

sunflower  oil, 

it 

a 

23°  C., 

ll 

ll 

17°  C.; 

a 

rape-seed  oil, 

a 

a 

20.7°  C., 

ll 

ll 

15°  C.; 

u 

castor  oil, 

u 

u 

13°  C., 

ll 

ll 

2°  C. 

Concentrated  sulphuric  acid  produces  with  different  fixed  oils  mixtures  varying  in 
color : 8 or  10  drops  of  the  oil  are  placed  upon  a china  plate,  2 or  3 drops  of  sulphuric 
acid  are  added,  and  after  a few  seconds  mixed  by  stirring ; the  color  of  the  mixture  will 
be  as  follows : with  almond  oil,  yellow,  changing  to  pale  brownish-yellow ; with  olive  oil, 
yellow,  turning  brownish  ; with  lard  oil,  yellow  and  brown  ; with  cotton-seed  oil,  yellow 
and  brown  ; with  ground-nut  oil,  yellow  and  green-brown  ; with  benne  oil,  brown-red, 
becoming  gelatinous;  with  sunflower  oil,  red-brown  and  brown  ; with  hemp-seed  oil,  brown, 
black,  and  solid;  with  linseed  oil,  brown-red  to  blackish-brown;  with  rape-seed  oil,  green- 
ish-blue or  brownish-green ; with  poppy-seed  oil,  yellow  to  brownish-green ; with  castor 
oil , brownish  to  gray-brown.  When  larger  quantities  of  oil  are  mixed  with  sulphuric 
acid  a rise  of  temperature  takes  place,  which  is  not  alike  for  different  oils.  According  to 
Behrens  (1852),  when  a cold  mixture  of  equal  parts  of  nitric  and  sulphuric  acid  is  added 
to  an  equal  weight  of  oil,  benne  oil  acquires  a green,  ground-nut  oil  a red,  and  olive  oil  a 
yellow  color.  (See  also  Ol.  Amygdal.  Express.) 

The  effect  of  nitric  acid  upon  the  oils  depends  not  only  upon  the  composition  of  the 
latter,  the  presence  of  coloring  matter,  etc.,  but  likewise  upon  the  strength  of  the  acid 
and  the  temperature.  Bach  (1883)  recommends  testing  the  oils  by  agitating  for  1 minute 
5 Cc.  each  of  oil  and  nitric  acid ; the  test-tube  is  afterward  placed  in  boiling  water  for 
5 minutes,  and  finally  set  aside  for  18  hours  at  about  15°  C. ; the  results  obtained  were, 
with — 


Olive  oil,  cold,  pale-green  ; 
Cotton-seed  oil,  “ yellowish-brown ; 
Sesame  oil,  “ white ; 

Ground-nut  oil,  “ pale  rose-color  ; 

Sunflower  oil,  “ dingy-white ; 
Rape-seed  oil,  “ pale  rose-color ; 

Castor  oil,  “ pale  rose-color  ; 


hot,  orange-yellow ; 

“ reddish-brown ; 

“ brownish-yellow ; 
“ brownish-yellow ; 
“ reddish-yellow. 

“ orange-yellow  ; 

“ golden-yellow ; 


final  result,  solid. 

u “ butyraceous. 

“ “ liquid. 

“ “ solid. 


“ “ solid. 

“ 11  butyraceous. 


Lipowitz  (1868)  observed  that  the  admixture  of  drying  in  non-drying  oils  may  be 
detected  by  triturating  8 parts  of  the  oil  with  1 part  of  chlorinated  lime ; in  the  course 
of  a few  hours  the  mixture,  if  made  with  non-drying  oils,  will  separate  a layer  of  limpid 
oil,  while  no  oily  layer  will  separate  from  the  mixture  containing  a drying  oil.  This 
appears  to  be  due  to  the  rapid  oxidation  of  the  latter. 

Since  most  of  the  fats  are  without  action  upon  it,  polarized  light  does  not  afford  a 
means  of  distinguishing  them  ; of  the  official  oils,  only  castor  oil  has  a decided  rotation 
to  the  right. 


OLEANDER. — Oleander. 


Launer  rose,  Laurose,  Fr. ; Oleander,  Rosenlorbeer 


G. 


Adelfo , Sp. 

The  leaves  of  Nerium  Oleander,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Apocynaceae. 

Origin. — This  well-known  ornamental  shrub  grows  wild  in  Southern  Europe,  Northern 
Africa,  and  Western  Asia,  and  thrives  best  in  moist  ground.  It  is  arborescent,  with  a gray 
or  greenish-gray  nearly  smooth  bark,  ternately-divided  branches,  and  showy  dark  rose- 
colored  or  white  flowers.  All  parts  are  reputed  to  possess  poisonous  properties. 

Description. — The  leaves  are  whorled  in  threes,  leathery,  smooth,  dark-green  and 
glossy  above,  nearly  sessile,  linear-lanceolate  10-15  Cm.  (4  to  6 inches)  long,  finely  pointed 
at  the  apex,  entire  on  the  margin,  and  delicately  feather-veined.  They  are  without  odor 
and  have  a nauseous  and  bitter  taste. 

Constituents. — Lukowski  (1861)  obtained  two  alkaloids  from  the  leaves  and 


1096 


OLEANDER. 


branches  by  carefully  precipitating  their  decoction  with  tannin ; the  tannate  of  pseudo- 
curarine  is  soluble  in  an  excess  of  tannin,  and  the  alkaloid  liberated  by  lead  oxide. 
Pseudocurarine  is  amorphous,  yellowish,  tasteless,  and  inodorous,  insoluble  in  ether,  freely 
soluble  in  water  and  alcohol,  and  yields  uncrystallizable  salts.  Oleandrine  is  a yellowish 
resinous  body,  slightly  soluble  in  water,  very  soluble  in  alcohol,  chloroform,  and  ether,  of 
a strongly  bitter  taste,  and  poisonous.  Its  salts  are  uncrystallizable,  Bitteli  (1875) 
observed  that  oleandrine  loses  its  poisonous  properties  when  heated  to  240°  C.  (464°  F.), 
and  that  the  hydrochlorate  is  crystalline  ; he  regards  the  pseudocurarine  as  a mixture  of 
different  principles  containing  a little  oleandrine.  Schmiedeberg  (1882)  ascribes  the 
poisonous  action  to  oleandrine,  while  a second  principle,  neriantin , is  stated  to  be  a gluco- 
side  and  to  possess  only  a feeble  action.  Pelikan  (1866)  considered  the  poisonous  prin- 
ciple to  be  a yellow  acrid  resin,  which,  according  to  Lato.ur  (1857),  possesses  acid  proper- 
ties. The  latter  chemist  determined  also  the  presence  of  tannin,  fat,  and  other  common 
principles. 

Allied  Plants. — Nerium  odorum,  Alton  (N.  odoratum,  Lamarck).  It  is  indigenous  to  and  cul- 
tivated in  India,  and  resembles  the  oleander,  but  has  longer  leaves  and  fragrant  flowers  with  a 
fringed  paracorolla.  The  bark  somewhat  resembles  mezereon-bark,  but  breaks  with  a short  frac- 
ture. H.  G.  Greenish  (1881)  isolated  a fixed  oil  and  two  bitter  poisonous  glucosides,  both  of 
which  are  insoluble  in  benzin,  benzene,  and  carbon  disulphide.  Neriodorin  is  a transparent 
yellow  tenacious  mass,  readily  soluble  in  chloroform,  colored  deep  reddish-brown  by  ferric  chlo- 
ride, and  precipitated  by  basic  lead  acetate  and  by  potassio-mercuric  iodide.  Neriodorein  is  a 
lemon-yellow  powder,  insoluble  in  chloroform,  colored  slightly  brown  by  ferric  acetate,  and  not 
precipitated  by  potassio-mercuric  iodide  nor  by  basic  lead  acetate  until  a little  ammonia  has  been 
added. 

Thevetia  yccotli,  De  Candolle  (Cerebera  thevetioides,  Kanth ),  is  an  elegant  tree  with  dark- 
green  foliage  and  golden-colored  flowers,  indigenous  to  the  damp  hot  regions  of  the  Mexican 
Cordilleras,  where  it  is  known  as  joyote.  It  bears  an  ovoid-globular  crested  and  laticiferous 
drupe  containing  four  (or  by  abortion  two)  seeds,  which  have  a thin  papery  testa,  a reticulate 
tegmen,  two  orbicular,  unequal,  crested  cotyledons,  and  a short  conical  radicle.  The  joyote- 
seeds  are  extremely  acrid,  and,  according  to  Herrera  (1877),  yielded  by  pressure  40  per  cent,  of  oil 
resembling  almond  oil.  The  expressed  seeds  yielded  to  ether  more  oil,  to  distilled  water  albumi- 
nous and  extractive  matter,  and  to  alcohol  a crystalline  acrid  principle,  tlievetosin , which  is  spar- 
ingly soluble  in  ether,  carbon  bisulphide,  and  fixed  and  volatile  oils,  is  insoluble  in  water,  and 
on  being  treated  with  dilute  nitric  acid  is  split  into  glucose  and  a resinoid  substance. 

Thevetia  (Cerbera,  KuntK)  cuneifolia  and  Th.  ovata,  De  Candolle , are  likewise  known  as 
joyote  and  as  narcisos  amarillos , and  probably  possess  similar  properties. 

Thev.  neriifolia,  De  Candolle  (Cerbera  Thevetia,  Linne),  is  a West  Indian  shrub,  the  bark  of 
which  is  used  as  an  anti-periodic. 

Parameria  vulneraria,  Radlkofer , a climbing  plant  of  the  Philippine  Islands,  furnishes 
Cebu  balsam,  which  is  prepared  by  boiling  the  bark  and  leaves  in  cocoanutoil,  and  is  of  a yellow 
color  and  of  a peculiar  odor.  The  root-bark  yields,  according  to  Zipperer  (1885),  8.5  per  cent, 
caoutchouc,  3 per  cent,  aromatic  resin,  and  14  per  cent,  of  ash. 

Geissospermum  l,£VE,  Baillon , known  in  Brazil  as  pad  pareira , is  a tree  the  intensely  bitter 
bark  of  which  has  been  much  used  in  that  country.  Santos  (1838)  separated  from  it  an  alkaloid, 
pereirine , which  in  its  impure  state,  as  a brown-yellow  amorphous  powder,  is  employed  in  Brazil. 
Bochefontaine  and  De  Freitas  (1877)  proposed  to  call  it  geissospermine , and  Hesse  (1877)  adopted 
this  name  for  the  alkaloid,  which  is  nearly  insoluble  in  ether  and  water  and  readily  soluble  in 
alcohol  and  dilute  acids,  crystallizes  in  small  white  prisms,  dissolves  in  strong  nitric  acid  with 
a purple-red  color,  becoming  orange-yellow  on  heating,  and  in  concentrated  sulphuric  acid  at 
first  colorless,  rapidly  changing  to  blue,  and  gradually  to  a pale  color;  its  composition  is 
C19H24N202.H20.  A second  alkaloid , pereirine,  is  easily  soluble  in  ether,  forms  a grayish-white 
amorphous  powder,  and  is  colored  blood-red  by  nitric  and  violet-red  by  sulphuric  acid  ; it  appears 
to  be  present  in  larger  proportion  than  the  preceding  one.  The  leaves  of  this  tree,  which  were 
sent  to  Europe  as  caroba-leaves , have  also  a bitter  taste,  and  probably  contain  the  same  alkaloids. 

Action  and  Uses. — Oleander  is  one  of  the  plants  whose  flowers  are  said  to  render 
honey  poisonous,  and  experiments  seem  to  show  that  its  active  principle  is  a heart-poison, 
It  has  been  used  in  epilepsy , but  fruitlessly. 

Tanghine,  the  active  principle  of  Tanghinia  venenifera,  an  ordeal  bean  of  Madagascar, 
contains  an  element  which,  according  to  Quinquaud,  arrests  the  respiration  and  then  the 
heart,  destroying  the  muscular  irritability,  and  causing  death  without  convulsions,  but 
with  dyspnoea  and  vomiting.  Gley,  on  the  other  hand,  states  that  it  differs  from  stroph- 
antine  and  oubaine  by  causing  convulsions.  The  poison,  says  Quinquaud,  “ appears 
likely  to  be  useful  in  toxic  paralysis,  trembling  palsy,  and  want  of  tone  in  the  intestines, 
and  in  two  cases  of  nocturnal  incontinence  of  urine  it  has  proved  of  service”  ( Pharm 
Jour,  and  Trans.,  Oct.  5,  1885).  Quinquaud  gave  an  extract  of  the  seeds  in  doses  of 
Gm.  0.06-0.10  (1  to  1|  grains). 


OLE  AT  A. 


1097 


Muriate  of  pereirine  has  had  antiperiodic  virtues  ascribed  to  it,  by  Ferrara  and  by 
Baeker,  when  given  to  the  extent  of  Gm.  2 (30  grains)  a day  {Bull,  de  Therap .,  cix.  238  ; 
cx.  319). 


OLEATA. — Oleates. 

Oleates , Olees , Fr. ; Oleate , G. 

This  class  of  preparations  was  first  proposed  by  Lliermite  (Jour.  Pliar.  Chimie,  Oct., 
1854,  p.  301)  but  did  not  attract  attention  until  recommended  by  Prof.  John  Marshall 
(1872).  They  are  combinations  of  oleic  acid  with  metallic  bases  or  alkaloids,  but  as 
medicinally  employed  they  are  usually  solutions  of  the  true  or  normal  oleates  in  an  excess 
of  oleic  acid.  In  the  case  of  the  alkaloids  the  respective  oleates  are  prepared  by  direct 
solution  in  oleic  acid,  and  to  facilitate  which  a moderate  degree  of  heat  may  be  employed. 
In  the  case  of  metallic  oleates,  however,  mutual  decomposition  is  frequently  resorted  to 
for  which  purpose  either  a specially  prepared  sodium  or  potassium  oleate  is  employed,  or 
a solution  of  castile  soap,  which  latter,  being  a sodium  oleo-palmitate,  will  of  course 
yield  also  an  impure  oleate ; but  for  all  practical  purposes  this  slight  impurity  may  gen- 
erally be  disregarded,  particularly  in  the  case  of  lead,  zinc,  and  copper.  The  proportion 
of  alkaloids  or  metallic  oxide  to  be  dissolved  in  oleic  acid  may  vary  to  suit  the  particular 
views  of  the  practitioner,  but  since  the  union  of  oleic  acid  with  the  base  results  in  a 
definite  chemical  compound,  the  limit  set  by  nature  cannot  be  exceeded ; this  limit  repre- 
sents the  following  proportions  of  base  represented  by  normal  oleates,  calculated  for 
anhydrous  alkaloids  and  metallic  oxides  respectively  : atropine  50.6  per  cent.,  cocaine 
51.8  per  cent.,  morphine  50.3  per  cent.,  quinine  53.46  per  cent.,  strychnine  54.22  per 
cent.,  bismuth  22.2  per  cent.,  copper  12.7  per  cent.,  lead  29  per  cent.,  iron  (ferric)  8.9 
per  cent.,  mercury  (mercuric)  28.4  per  cent.,  zinc  12.9  per  cent.  Assuming  the  molecular 
weights  of  aconitine  and  veratrine  (based  on  the  formula  given  by  Prescott)  to  be  correct, 
the  normal  oleates  of  these  two  alkaloids  would  contain  69.6  and  61.15  per  cent,  respec- 
tively ; but  it  must  be  remembered  that  the  commercial  aconitine  and  veratrine  are  both 
very  impure.  The  solutions  of  alkaloidal  oleates  are  usually  made  of  the  strength  of 
2 per  cent.,  except  morphine  and  cocaine  (usually  5 per  cent.)  and  quinine  (25  per  cent.)  ; 
a typical  formula  for  their  preparation  is  given  in  the  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia  under  Oleatum 
Yeratrinae.  In  the  case  of  metallic  oleates  the  use  to  which  they  are  to  be  put  must  be 
considered  in  the  choice  of  proper  diluents : for  mercuric  oleates  and  all  those  intended 
for  epidermic  medication  only  oleic  acid  should  be  employed,  as  it  is  more  readily 
absorbed  than  fats  and  solid  hydrocarbons ; for  those  oleates  intended  for  use  in  skin 
diseases,  petrolatum  or  benzoinated  lard  may  be  used.  The  more  nearly  oleic  acid  is 
saturated  with  mercuric  oxide  the  better  will  the  preparation  keep,  and  hence  either  the 
normal  or, the  official  oleate  should  be  kept  in  stock  for  dilution  as  wanted,  the  necessary 
oleic  acid  being  readily  incorporated.  10  parts  of  normal  mercuric  oleate  diluted  with 
18.4  parts  of  oleic  acid  will  produce  the  10  per  cent,  oleate,  and  if  diluted  with  46.8 
parts  of  acid  the  5 per  cent,  oleate  will  be  obtained. 

Although  a solution  of  castile  soap  has  been  strongly  recommended  for  the  prepara- 
tion of  normal  metallic  oleates,  a purer  product  can  be  obtained  by  using  sodium  or 
potassium  oleate  prepared  direct  from  oleic  acid,  as  follows:  Warm  in  a capacious  vessel 
2000  grains  of  purified  oleic  acid  (U.  S.  P.  1890)  to  about  60°  or  66°  C.  (140°— 150. 8°F.), 
and  add  slowly  a solution  of  320  grains  of  soda  (U.  S.  90  per  cent.)  in  a mixture  of  1? 
fluidounces  of  alcohol  and  4 ounces  of  water,  stirring  constantly  until  the  acid  is  neutral- 
ized, and  a small  portion  of  the  resulting  soap  dissolved  in  alcohol  yields  but  a faint  pink 
tint  on  the  addition  of  a few  drops  of  alcoholic  solution  of  phenolphtalein.  The  soap 
is  then  dissolved  in  6 pints  of  warm  water  and  filtered ; this  neutral  solution  may  be 
used  for  the  decomposition  of  metallic  salts,  and  will  yield  very  satisfactory  normal 
oleates ; for  instance,  to  the  above  quantity  (6  pints)  may  be  added,  slowly  and  with 
constant  stirring,  a warm  solution  of  884  grains  of  cupric  sulphate  in  2 pints  of  water, 
or  of  1350  grains  of  pure  lead  acetate  in  4 pints  of  warm  water,  etc.  More  extended 
information,  together  with  working  formulas  for  the  various  oleates,  will  be  found  in  the 
Amer.  Jour.  Phar.  for  1881  and  1889,  and  Drugg.  Circ.  1885. 

Ointments  of  the  Oleates.  Manufacturers  have  for  some  time  offered  a class  of 
preparations  under  the  name  of  ointments  of  the  various  oleates,  in  regard  to  which 
some  confusion  exists,  since  the  base  used  by  different  manufacturers  varies,  as  well  as 


1098 


OLEATUM  HYDRARGYRI. 


the  proportion  of  oleate  : physicians  may  therefore  find  these  ointments  of  varying  com- 
position and  consistence,  as  either  benzoinated  lard  or  petrolatum  (soft  or  hard)  has  been 
used  in  their  preparation.  The  term  ‘‘  ointment  of  any  oleate,  5 or  10  per  cent.”  can 
have  but  one  meaning  as  far  as  the  active  ingredient  is  concerned — namely,  that  the  fin- 
ished product  contains  5 or  10  parts  of  the  respective  normal  oleates  in  every  100  parts 
of  the  ointment,  and  not  5 or  10  parts  of  the  alkaloid  or  metallic  oxide,  as  is  frequently 
supposed  : this  of  course  makes  a considerable  difference  in  the  strength  of  the  oleate 
ointments,  and  should  be  borne  in  mind  whenever  they  are  prescribed.  Ointments  of 
oleates  are  not  recognized  in  any  of  the  pharmacopoeias  (except  Unguentum  Zinci  Oleati, 
Br.  Phar .,  which  see),  and  physicians  may  save  themselves  and  the  pharmacists  much 
annoyance  by  either  specifying  the  name  of  the  manufacturer  whose  product  they  desire, 
or  by  designating  the  amount  of  oleate  (normal  or  of  a stated  percentage  strength),  as 
well  as  the  kind  of  base  they  wish  to  have  used  in  the  preparation  of  the  ointments  of  the 
various  oleates. 

OLEATUM  HYDRARGYRI,  U.  S.,  Br. — Oleate  of  Mercury. 

Hydrargyrum  oleicum , s.  ole'inicum,  s.  elainicum. — Mercuric  oleate , E. ; Oleate  mer- 
curique,  Fr. ; Quecksilberoleat , Mercurioleat , G. 

Preparation. — Yellow  Mercuric  Oxide,  thoroughly  dried,  200  Gm. ; Oleic  Acid,  800 
Gm. ; to  make  1000  Gm.  Introduce  the  oleic  acid  into  a capacious  mortar,  and  gradu- 
ally add  to  it  the  yellow  mercuric  oxide,  by  sifting  it  upon  the  surface  of  the  acid  and 
incorporating  it  by  continuous  stirring.  Then  set  the  mixture  aside  in  a warm  place,  at 
a temperature  not  exceeding  40°  C.  (104°  F.),  and  stir  frequently  until  the  oxide  is  dis- 
solved. 

To  prepare  4 av.  ozs.  of  the  official  mercuric  oleate  use  350  grains  of  well  dried  mercuric 
oxide  and  1400  grains  of  oleic  acid. 

To  9 ounces  of  oleic  acid  gradually  add  1 ounce  of  yellow  mercuric  oxide,  and  triturate 
occasionally  until  it  is  all  dissolved. — Br. 

The  U.  S.  preparation  constitutes  a 20  per  cent,  oleate,  and  is  of  the  consistence  of  firm 
butter  with  a yellowish  color ; when  made  by  mutual  decomposition  between  potassium 
oleate  and  mercuric  nitrate,  as  first  suggested  in  1873  by  Louis  Dohme,  it  is  of  a pale 
cream  color.  Heat  must  be  avoided  as  much  as  possible  in  its  preparation,  as  it  is  readily 
decomposed  at  increased  temperatures,  but  will  keep  for  a long  time  in  a cool  place  pro- 
tected against  light  and  air.  The  use  of  metallic  spatulas  should  be  carefully  avoided,  and 
only  glass  or  porcelain  utensils  employed. 

The  20  per  cent,  oleate  of  mercury  may  be  readily  converted  into  the  10  per  cent, 
oleate  by  mixing  with  an  equal  weight  of  oleic  acid,  or  into  the  5 per  cent,  oleate  by 
adding  three  times  its  weight  of  oleic  acid. 

Oleate  of  bismuth  has  been  prescribed  to  some  extent,  and  may  be  conveniently  pre- 
pared by  Beringer’s  method,  as  follows  : Take  of  oxide  of  bismuth,  dried  at  100°  C., 
until  it  ceases  to  lose  weight,  480  grains ; purified  oleic  acid,  1735  grains.  Rub  the  oxide 
to  fine  powder,  mix  thoroughly  with  the  oleic  acid,  add  2 parts  of  water,  and  boil  the 
mixture  until  saponification  is  complete  (replacing  water  as  it  evaporates),  and  a small 
quantity  dropped  into  water  yields  an  ointment-like  mass  without  separation  of  oleic 
acid. 

Action  and  Uses. — Oleate  of  mercury  was  proposed  and  introduced  by  Marshall 
(1872)  for  making  an  ointment  more  cleanly  and  at  the  same  time  more  efficient  than 
mercurial  ointment,  because  more  readily  absorbed  after  its  mere  application  to  the  integu- 
ment without  friction.  It,  however,  was  liable  to  the  objection  of  smelling  unpleasantly, 
and  of  irritating  the  skin  in  many  cases  unless  diluted  with  olive  oil  or  lard.  In  order 
to  proportion  the  strength  of  the  preparation  to  the  susceptibility  of  the  skin,  it  has  been 
made  with  different  percentages  of  the  oxide  of  mercury,  from  3 up  to  20  per  cent.,  and 
as  the  stronger  were  apt  to  produce  pain,  Gm.  0.06  (gr.  j)  of  morphine  was  combined  with 
each  drachm  of  the  preparation.  It  was  painted  on  the  affected  part  with  a brush  or 
mop,  and  not  rubbed  in  like  ordinary  liniments  or  embrocations. 

It  was  originally  applied  to  joints  affected  with  chronic  inflammations,  synovial  or  rheu- 
matic ; to  indurations  of  the  mammae  and  lymphatic  glands  ; to  the  pustules  of  sycosis ; 
to  the  seat  of  itching  in  pruritus  pudendi  et  ani ; and  to  destroy  lice  infesting  the  genitals. 
A mass  as  large  as  a pea  or  bean  of  the  20  per  cent,  oleate  was  placed  in  the  child’s 
axilla  in  cases  of  congenital  syphilis;  the  application,  repeated  night  and  morning  for  five 
or  six  days,  produced  its  constitutional  effects  without  any  sign  of  uncleanliness.  But, 


OLEATUM  VERATRINJE.— OLEATUM  ZINCI. 


1099 


on  the  whole,  experience  has  proven  this  preparation  to  be  inferior  to  mercurial  ointment. 
In  the  non-ulcerated  forms  of  syphiloderma  affecting  the  face,  neck,  or  hands  the  10  per 
cent,  solution  was  found  a valuable  adjunct  to  their  treatment.  This  solution  was  also 
applied  to  non-ulcerated  indurations  and  condylomata , to  the  eyelids  in  syphilitic  iritis , and 
to  hard  nodes  and  certain  forms  of  syphilitic  testicle.  It  is  alleged  to  have  cured  bromi- 
drosis,  or  fetid  sweating  of  the  axilla  ( Lancet , May  8,  1880).  Most  of  these  results  were 
soon  after  their  announcement  confirmed  (Hill,  Martini,  1873),  but  not  those  relating  to 
non-syphilitic  inflammatory  affections.  With  the  exception  of  a suggestion  that  it  would 
form  an  excellent  substitute  for  the  ointment  of  yellow  oxide  of  mercury  in  the  treatment 
of  diseases  of  the  eye  (1878),  it  does  not  appear  that  any  favorable  account  has  been  pub- 
lished of  this  preparation,  from  which  it  may  be  inferred  that  experience  has  not  confirmed 
the  estimate  of  its  value  entertained  by  its  proposer. 

OLEATUM  VERATRINJE,  U.  S.— Oleate  of  Veratrine. 

Veratrinum  oleicum. — Oleate  de  veratrine , Fr. ; Veratrinoleat , G. 

Preparation. — Veratrine,  2 Gm. ; Oleic  Acid,  98  Gm. ; to  make  100  Om.  Rub  the 
veratrine  with  a small  quantity  of  the  oleic  acid  in  a warm  mortar  to  a smooth  paste. 
Add  this  to  the  remainder  of  the  oleic  acid,  previously  warmed,  and  stir  until  it  is  dis- 
solved.— U.  S. 

In  like  manner  other  alkaloidal  oleates  may  be  prepared,  the  above  formula  yielding  a 
2 per  cent,  solution ; when  a stronger  oleate  is  ordered  a decreased  quantity  of  oleic  acid 
should  be  taken ; thus  for  5 per  cent,  use  5 Gm.  of  alkaloid  and  95  Gm.  of  oleic  acid ; 
for  25  per  cent.,  use  25  Gm.  and  75  Gm.  respectively,  etc.  Since  each  minim  of  the 
2 per  cent,  oleate  weighs  about  t8q  of  a grain,  100  grains  of  it  will  measure  about  2 
fluidrachms. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  preparation  contains  half  as  much  of  the  alkaloid  as  vera 
trine  ointment.  Like  that  compound,  it  is  useful  as  an  application  to  neuralgic  centres. 
It  should  be  applied  with  a mop. 

OLEATUM  ZINCI,  U.  S.,  Br.— Oleate  of  Zinc. 

Zincum  oleicum. — Oleate  de  zinc , Fr. ; Zinkoleat , G. 

Preparation. — Zinc  Oxide,  50  Gm. ; Oleic  Acid,  950  Gm. ; to  make  1000  Gm. 
Introduce  the  oleic  acid  into  a capacious  capsule,  and  gradually  add  to  it  the  zinc  oxide, 
by  sifting  it  upon  the  surface  of  the  acid,  and  incorporating  it  by  continuous  stirring. 
Set  the  mixture  aside  for  a few  hours,  and  then  heat  it  on  a water-bath,  frequently 
stirring,  until  the  oxide  is  dissolved. — JJ.  S. 

To  prepare  4 av.  ozs.  of  oleate  of  zinc  871  grains  of  zinc  oxide  and  16621  grains  of 
oleic  acid  should  be  used. 

Add  1 ounce  of  zinc  oxide  to  9 ounces  of  oleic  acid,  and  allow  the  mixture  to  stand 
for  two  hours ; then  heat  on  a water-bath  until  the  oxide  is  dissolved. — Br. 

The  U.  S.  preparation,  being  a 5 per  cent,  oleate,  is  of  the  consistence  of  a soft  oint- 
ment, whereas  the  Br.  oleate,  containing  twice  as  much  oxide,  is  very  much  firmer.  The 
so-called  20  per  cent,  oleate  of  zinc  is  a hard  friable  mass,  containing  a considerable  excess 
of  zinc  oxide,  the  normal  compound  representing  only  12.9  per  cent. 

Powdered  oleate  of  zinc  may  be  prepared  by  either  of  the  two  following  methods : 
Add  a cold  solution  of  1 oz.  of  castile  soap  in  2 pints  of  water,  slowly  to  a cold  solution 
of  360  grains  of  zinc  acetate  in  4 pints  of  water,  constantly  stirring ; wash  the  precipi- 
tate with  cold  water  and  dry  without  heat  (Parsons).  Make  6 pints  of  neutral  soap  solu- 
tion from  oleic  acid  and  soda  (see  page  1097),  warm  to  43°  C.  (109.4°  F.),  and  to  it  add 
slowly  a solution  of  1100  grains  of  zinc  sulphate  in  2 pints  of  water,  stirring  constantly — 
collect  the  precipitate  on  a moist  filter,  wash  thoroughly  with  water,  and  dry  on  bibulous 
paper  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  38°  C.  (100°  F.).  It  is  important  that  the  tem- 
perature during  precipitation  be  maintained  between  38°  and  43°  C.  (100°— 110°  F.),  so 
that  the  oleate  when  dry  may  be  obtained  in  white  friable  masses  which  can  easily  be 
passed  through  a sieve  as  an  impalpable  unctuous  slippery  powder  (Beringer). 


1100 


OLEORESINJE. — OLEORESINA  ASPIDII. 


Fig.  197. 


OLE  ORE  SIN  JE . — Oleoresins, 

Oleo-resines , Extraits  ether es,  Fr.  ; (Elliarze , JEtherische  Extrakte , G. 

These  preparations  consist  mainly  of  fixed  or  volatile  oils  associated  with  resin  and 
some  other  constituents,  and  are  directed  to  be  prepared  by  exhausting  the  powdered 

drug  with  ether.  The  great  volatility  of  this  solvent  renders 
it  necessary  to  percolate  in  a well-closed  apparatus,  in  which 
the  pressure  is  equalized  by  connecting  the  receiving  vessel 
with  the  top  of  the  percolator  by  means  of  a tube  (see  page 
642).  The  ethereal  tincture  is  afterward  transferred  to  a 
suitable  still,  and  the  ether  distilled  off  from  a water-bath  with 
a moderate  heat.  Various  apparatuses  have  been  constructed 
to  accomplish  the  exhaustion  with  the  smallest  possible  quan- 
tity of  ether  by  using  the  same  liquid  over  again  until  the 
material  has  been  exhausted ; for  this  purpose  the  recipient 
is  placed  in  water  of  about  50°  C.  (122°  F.) ; the  ether 
vapors  ascending  through  the  connecting  tube  mentioned 
above  are  condensed  in  a suitable  refrigerator,  and  the  ether 
is  again  passed  into  the  percolator,  the  operation  being  repeated 
as  often  as  required.  The  annexed  cut,  taken  from  Parrish’s 
Pharmacy , represents  such  an  apparatus,  which  is  best  made 
of  tinned  sheet  iron,  or  preferably  of  copper  well  tinned  on  the  inside ; it  explains 
itself,  and  it  is  merely  necessary  to  state  that  the  head  is  perforated  at  the  bottom  for  the 
equal  distribution  of  the  menstruum,  and  jacketed  above  for  the  condensation  of  the 
ether.  The  percolator  being  likewise  jacketed,  it  may  be  immersed  in  warm  water,  and 
the  ether  recovered  which  remains  in  the  powder  after  exhaustion  ; or,  if  distillation  be 
inconvenient,  the  greater  portion  of  the  ether  may  be  displaced  by  means  of  alcohol. 

If  the  operation  has  been  carefully  conducted,  the  ether  thus  regained  is  not  at  all  or 
but  very  slightly  impregnated  with  volatile  oil ; nevertheless,  it  must  be  regarded  as  unfit 
for  internal  use,  and  should  be  reserved  for  a similar  subsequent  operation. 

In  1892  Geo.  M.  Beringer  suggested  the  use  of  acetone  as  a menstruum  in  place  of 
ether,  and  made  a series  of  experiments  in  which  he  established  the  value  of  the  former 
solvent.  As  acetone  can  now  be  obtained  of  great  purity  at  a cost  considerably  below 
that  of  pure  ether,  and  as  its  boiling-point  is  at  least  18°  or  20°  C.  above  that  of  ether, 
it  seems  a pity  that  the  Pharmacopoeia  failed  to  recognize  its  merits. 

The  usual  directions  for  the  preparation  of  oleoresins  are  to  continue  percolation  of 
the  drug  to  complete  exhaustion,  but,  as  already  pointed  out  by  Procter  nearly  30  years 
ago,  the  first  portions  of  percolate  contain  practically  the  whole  of  the  oleoresinous  con- 
stituents, and  hence  2 cubic  centimeters  of  percolate  for  each  gramme  of  drug  operated 
upon  would  appear  sufficient:  in  the  case  of  capsicum  even  less  (1.5  Cc.)  has  been  found 
advantageous,  in  order  to  avoid  the  extraction  of  large  quantities  of  fat. 


OLEORESINA  ASPIDII,  TJ.  S. — Oleoresin  of  Aspidium. 

Oleoresina  filicis , Extractum  filicis  liquidum , Br. ; Extractum  filicis , P.  G. ; Oleum  filicis 
marts. — Oleoresin  or  Liquid  extract  of  male  fern , E. ; Extrait  ethere  (Huile)  de  fougere  male , 
Fr. ; Wurmfarnextrakt , Wurmfarnbl , G. 

Preparation. — ikspidium,  recently  reduced  to  a No.  60  powder,  500  Gm. ; Ether,  a 
sufficient  quantity.  Put  the  aspidium  into  a cylindrical  glass  percolator,  provided  with 
a stopcock,  and  arranged  with  cover  and  receptacle  suitable  for  volatile  liquids.  Press 
the  drug  firmly,  and  percolate  slowly  with  ether,  added  in  successive  portions,  until  the 
drug  is  exhausted.  Recover  the  greater  part  of  the  ether  from  the  percolate  by  distilla- 
tion on  a water-bath,  and,  having  transferred  the  residue  to  a capsule,  allow  the  remain- 
ing ether  to  evaporate  spontaneously.  Keep  the  oleoresin  in  a well-stoppered  bottle. 

Note. — Oleoresin  of  aspidium  usually  deposits,  on  standing,  a granular-crystalline 
substance.  This  should  be  thoroughly  mixed  with  the  liquid  portion  before  use. — U.  S. 

The  processes  of  the  other  pharmacopoeias  are  essentially  identical  with  the  above, 
except  that  maceration  instead  of  percolation  is  directed  by  the  P.  G.  It  should  be 
remembered  that  only  that  portion  of  the  rhizome  is  to  be  used  which  has  still  a greenish 


OLEORESINA  CAPSTCI.—OLEORESTNA  CUBEBM. 


1101 


color ; the  oleoresin  will  then  have  a greenish  or  brownish-green  color,  while  the  entire 
rhizome  with  the  stipes  yields  a brown  preparation,  which  not  unfrequently  forms  a 
jelly,  probably  from  the  separation  of  pectin  compounds.  The  official  oleoresin  sepa- 
rates a granular  deposit  of  filicic  acid,  which  must  be  well  mixed  with  the  liquid  portion 
on  dispensing.  The  yield  is  about  10  to  15  per  cent. 

“ The  oleoresin,  well  stirred  and  diluted  with  glycerin,  should  not  show  any  starch- 
granules  when  examined  under  the  microscope.” — P.  G. 

Action  and  Uses. — Since  the  introduction  into  practice  of  this  preparation,  whose 
activity  depends  upon  the  filicic  acid  it  contains,  the  treatment  of  taeniae  has  been 
rendered  prompt  and  certain,  at  least  so  far  as  relates  to  the  armed  taenia  and  T.  bothrio- 
cephalus.  It  appears  to  act  as  a poison  to  the  parasites,  which  are  discharged  dead.  The 
medicine  may  occasion  nausea,  griping,  and  even  vomiting,  but  usually  acts  without 
causing  either  pain  or  uneasiness.  It  is  well  to  prepare  the  patient  by  administering  a 
purgative  dose  of  castor  oil  or  of  calomel,  or  a saline  cathartic,  in  order  to  remove  the 
mucus  in  which  the  head  of  the  parasite  is  imbedded.  This  should  be  done  about  twelve 
hours  before  the  oleoresin  is  administered,  and  the  diet  at  the  same  time  restricted  to  milk 
and  light  broths.  Duchesne  advises  that  the  extract  should  be  administered  along  with 
calomel:  R.  01.  resinge  aspidii  f*3ij , calomel  gr.  xij.  S.  Make  16  capsules,  of  which  2 
are  to  be  taken  every  ten  minutes  until  all  are  used.  The  oleoresin  is  best  prescribed  in 
capsules  each  containing  Gm.  0.40-0.46  (gr.  vj-vij).  Some  advise  that  an  equal  quantity 
of  ether  should  be  contained  in  every  one.  Of  these  capsules  two  should  be  taken  every 
fifteen  minutes  until  Gm.  6-8  (f^iss-ij)  of  the  oleoresin  have  been  used.  In  the  course 
of  two  or  three  hours  purging  begins,  and  after  several  stools  the  worm  is  generally 
expelled,  dead.  It  has  been  suggested  that  the  patient  should  evacuate  the  bowel  in  a 
vessel  nearly  full  of  water,  so  that  the  parasite  need  not  break  and  that  its  parts  may  be 
readily  distinguished.  The  oleoresin  of  Aspidium  viarginale,  a common  fern  of  this 
country,  has  been  successfully  used  for  tape-worm  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.20  (gr.  iij). 

OLEORESINA  CAPSICI,  TJ.  S. — Oleoresin  of  Capsicum. 

Oleoresine  ( Extrait  etheree ) de  capsique , Fr. ; Spanischpfeffer-Oelharz , G. 

Preparation. — Capsicum,  in  No.  60  powder,  500  Gm. ; Ether,  a sufficient  quantity. 
Put  the  capsicum  into  a cylindrical  glass  percolator,  provided  with  a stopcock,  and 
arranged  with  cover  and  receptacle  suitable  for  volatile  liquids.  Press  the  drug  firmly, 
and  percolate  slowly  with  ether,  added  in  successive  portions,  until  the  drug  is  exhausted. 
Recover  the  greater  part  of  the  ether  from  the  percolate  by  distillation  on  a water-bath, 
and  having  transferred  the  residue  to  a capsule,  allow  the  remaining  ether  to  evaporate 
spontaneously.  Now  pour  off  the  liquid  portion,  transfer  the  remainder  to  a strainer, 
and  when  the  separated  fatty  matter  (which  is  to  be  rejected)  has  been  completely 
drained,  mix  the  liquid  portions  together.  Keep  the  oleoresin  in  a well-stoppered 
bottle. — U.  S. 

It  is  a dark  brown-red  rather  thick  liquid,  separating  on  standing  a granular  deposit 
of  fat,  which  mechanically  encloses  a portion  of  the  oleoresin,  that  may  be  recovered  by 
washing . several  times  with  small  quantities  of  ether.  Instead  of  draining  the  fat,  we 
prefer  to  decant  the  clear  oleoresin  and  wash  the  remainder  as  stated.  The  yield  is  about 
5 per  cent.,  but  as  much  as  10  or  12  per  cent,  has  been  obtained.  The  oleoresin  has  little 
odor,  but  possesses  an  extremely  hot  and  fiery  taste. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  preparation  appears  to  be  nearly  superfluous  as  an  internal 
medicine,  since  all  the  virtues  it  can  exert  in  that  manner  are  sufficiently  exhibited  by 
capsicum.  It  is  occasionally  added  to  liniments  to  increase  their  rubefacient  action,  but 
is  more  beneficially  incorporated  in  plasters,  such  as  soap  or  lead  plaster,  for  a similar 
purpose.  The  dose  may  be  stated  at  Gm.  0.06  (try),  well  diluted. 

OLEORESINA  CUBEB.ZE,  TJ,  S •,  Tiv, — Oleoresin  of  Cubeb. 

Extractum  cuhebarum , P.  G. ; Extractum  cubebse  sethereum. — OUoresine  de  cubebe , Fr. ; 
Kubebenextrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Cubeb,  in  No.  30  powder,  500  Gm. ; Ether,  a sufficient  quantity. 
Put  the  cubeb  into  a cylindrical  glass  percolator,  provided  with  a stopcock,  and  arranged 
with  cover  and  receptacle  suitable  for  volatile  liquids.  Press  the  drug  firmly,  and  perco- 
late slowly  with  ether,  added  in  successive  portions,  until  the  drug  is  exhausted.  Recover 
the  greater  part  of  the  ether  from  the  percolate  by  distillation  on  a water-bath,  arid,  having 


1102 


OLEORES1NA  LUPULINI.—OLEORES1NA  PIPERIS. 


transferred  the  residue  to  a capsule,  allow  the  remaining  ether  to  evaporate  spontaneously. 
Keep  the  product  in  a well-stoppered  bottle. 

Note. — Oleoresin  of  cubeb  deposits,  after  standing  for  some  time,  a waxy  and  crys- 
talline matter,  which  should  be  rejected,  only  the  liquid  portion  being  used. — U S. 

The  formula  of  Br.  is  practically  identical  with  this. 

The  German  Pharmacopoeia  has  a similar  preparation,  made,  however,  by  extracting 
the  cubebs  with  a mixture  of  equal  weights  of  ether  and  alcohol ; it  probably  contains 
less  volatile  oil,  a portion  of  which  must  volatilize  with  the  last  portions  of  alcohol.  The 
oleoresin,  as  prepared  by  the  above  formula,  is  of  a brown-green,  or  sometimes  of  a grass- 
green,  color,  the  difference  being  due  to  the  presence  of  more  or  less  chlorophyll.  On 
standing  it  deposits  some  waxy  matter  and  cubebin,  which  are  removed  by  decantation. 
The  remaining  liquid,  amounting  to  between  18  and  25  per  cent,  of  the  cubebs  used, 
consists  mainly  of  fixed  and  volatile  oils,  the  active  resins,  and  chlorophyll.  An  alco- 
holic ether  dissolves  more  brown  coloring  matter. 

Action  and  Uses. — Investigations  for  the  purpose  of  discovering  upon  which  of 
the  constituents  of  cubeb  its' medicinal  value  depends  have  not  reached  a perfectly  definite 
conclusion,  but  it  may  be  considered  that  its  most  active  element  is  the  soft  resin, 
which,  when  taken  in  doses  of  from  Gm.  4.60—6  (gr.  lxx-xc),  produces  a lively  sensa- 
tion of  heat  in  the  stomach,  increases  the  urine,  and  renders  it  hot  and  irritating.  In 
the  dose  of  Gm.  10  (gr.  cl)  it  occasions  also  eructation,  flatulence,  a pervading  sense 
of  warmth,  and  some  quickening  of  the  pulse.  The  dose  of  the  oleoresin  is  stated  to  be 
Gm.  0.30-2  (npv-xxx),  which  may  be  given  on  sugar  or  preferably  enclosed  in  gelatin 
capsules. 

OLEORESINA  LUPULINI,  U.  S. — Oleoresin  of  Lupulin. 

Oleoresina  lupidinae,  Extractum  lupulini  sethereum — Oleoresine  de  lupuline,  Fr. ; JEther- 
iscJies  Lupulinextrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Lupulin,  100  Gm. ; Ether,  a sufficient  quantity.  Put  the  lupulin 
into  a cylindrical  glass  percolator,  provided  with  a stopcock,  and  arranged  with  cover  and 
receptacle  suitable  for  volatile  liquids.  Press  the  drug  very  lightly , and  percolate  slowly 
with  ether,  added  in  successive  portions,  until  the  drug  is  exhausted.  Recover  the  greater 
part  of  the  ether  from  the  percolate  by  distillation  on  a water-bath,  and,  having  trans- 
ferred the  residue  to  a capsule,  allow  the  remaining  ether  to  evaporate  spontaneously. 
Keep  the  oleoresin  in  a well-stoppered  bottle. — U.  S. 

The  yield  is  variable,  often  amounting  to  50  or  60  per  cent.  It  is  of  a dark  reddish- 
brown  color  and  semi-fluid  in  consistence,  and  has  the  odor  and  taste  of  the  drug. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  preparation  probably  contains  all  the  medicinal  virtues 
of  hop.  It  is,  however,  seldom  used.  It  may  be  prescribed  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.10-0.60 
(gr.  ij— x),  or  more,  in  pill  or  capsule. 

OLEORESINA  PIPERIS,  U.  S. — Oleoresin  of  Pepper. 

Oleoresin  de  poivre  noir , Fr. ; JEtherisches  Pfefferextrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Pepper,  in  No.  60  powder,  500  Gm. ; Ether,  a sufficient  quantity. 
Put  the  pepper  into  a cylindrical  glass  percolator,  provided  with  a stopcock,  and  arranged 
with  a cover  and  receptacle  for  volatile  liquids.  Press  the  drug  firmly,  and  percolate 
slowly  with  ether,  added  in  successive  portions,  until  the  drug  is  exhausted.  Recover 
the  greater  part  of  the  ether  from  the  percolate  by  evaporation  on  a water-bath,  and, 
having  transferred  the  residue  to  a capsule,  set  this  aside  until  the  remaining  ether  has 
evaporated,  and  the  deposition  of  crystals  of  piperin  has  ceased.  Lastly,  separate  the 
oleoresin  from  the  piperin  by  expression  through  a muslin  strainer.  Keep  the  oleoresin 
in  a well-stoppered  bottle. — U.  S. 

The  official  process  yields  from  5 to  6.5  per  cent,  of  a greenish-black  oleoresin,  consist- 
ing of  a mixture  of  volatile  and  fixed  oil  holding  the  pungent  resin  and  some  piperin 
in  solution.  It  is  an  official  substitute  for  the  so-called  oil  of  black  pepper , which  is 
obtained  as  a by-product  in  the  manufacture  of  piperin,  and  has  essentially  the  same 
composition,  except  that  the  volatile  oil  is  present  in  small  quantities  only. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  medical  uses  of  this  oleoresin  are  probably  few  and  unim- 
portant, since  it  contains  but  a small  proportion  of  piperine,  which  is  of  some  value  as 
a medicine.  Its  dose  is  Gm.  0.05—010  (try— ij)- 


OLEORESINA  ZINGIBERIS.— OLEUM  JE THERE UM. 


1103 


OLEORESINA  ZINGIBERIS,  77.  S. — Oleoresin  of  Ginger. 

Extractum  zingiberis  sethereum. — Oleoresine  ( Piperoide ) de  gingembre,  Fr. ; Zingiberin , 
jEtherisches  Ingwerextrakt , G. 

Preparation. — Ginger,  in  No.  60  powder,  500  Gm. ; Ether,  a sufficient  quantity. 
Put  the  ginger  into  a cylindrical  glass  percolator,  provided  with  a stopcock,  and  arranged 
with  cover  and  receptacle  suitable  for  volatile  liquids.  Press  the  drug  firmly,  and  perco- 
late slowly  with  ether,  added  in  successive  portions,  until  the  drug  is  exhausted.  Recover 
the  greater  part  of  the  ether  from  the  percolate  by  distillation  on  a water-bath,  and  having 
transferred  the  residue  to  a capsule,  allow  the  remaining  ether  to  evaporate  spontaneously. 
Keep  the  oleoresin  in  a well-stoppered  bottle. — U.  S. 

Coated  ginger  yields  between  8 and  10  per  cent.,  and  the  uncoated  (Jamaica)  ginger 
between  5 and  7 per  cent,  of  oleoresin,  which,  as  prepared  from  the  latter,  is  lighter  in 
color,  rather  more  limpid,  and  perhaps  more  agreeable  in  flavor.  The  appellation  piperoid 
originated  with  Beral.  Using  acetone  as  a solvent,  nearly  10  per  cent,  of  oleoresin  has 
been  obtained,  which  was  completely  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  and  chloroform. 

Uses. — This  oleoresin  may  possibly  fulfil  some  useful  purpose  for  which  ginger  in 
substance  and  its  tincture  are  inadequate.  It  is,  in  fact,  only  a concentrated  ethereal 
solution.  The  dose  is  Gm.  0.06  (ny),  largely  diluted. 

OLEUM  ADIPIS,  77.  S.— Lard  Oil. 

Huile  de  graxsse , Fr. ; Schmalzol,  Speckol , G. 

A fixed  oil  expressed  from  lard  at  a low  temperature. 

Preparation. — Lard,  enclosed  in  strong  canvas  bags,  is  kept  for  some  time  near  the 
freezing-point  of  water,  and  then  subjected  to  a gradually-increased  pressure.  About  60 
or  62  per  cent,  of  oil  is  obtained. 

Properties  and  Tests. — Lard  oil  is  a colorless  or  pale  yellow,  oily  liquid,  having 
a slightly  fatty  odor,  a bland  taste,  and  showing  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  the  specific  gravity 
of  0.910  to  0.920.  At  a temperature  a little  below  10°  C.  (50°  F.)  it  usually  commences 
to  separate  a white  granular  fat,  and  at  or  near  0°  C.  (32°  F.)  it  forms  a solid,  white 
mass.  When  it  is  brought  in  contact  with  concentrated  sulphuric  acid  a dark  reddish- 
brown  color  is  instantly  produced.  If  5 Cc.  of  the  oil  be  thoroughly  shaken,  in  a 
test-tube,  with  5 Cc.  of  an  acidulated,  1 per  cent,  alcoholic  solution  of  silver  nitrate 
(made  by  dissolving  1 Gm.  of  silver  nitrate  in  100  Cc.  of  deodorized  alcohol,  and  adding 
0.5  Cc.  of  nitric  acid),  and  the  mixture  heated  for  about  five  minutes  in  a water-bath,  the 
oil  should  remain  nearly  or  quite  colorless,  not  acquiring  a reddish  or  brown  color,  nor 
should  any  dark  color  be  produced  at  the  line  of  contact  of  the  two  liquids  (absence  of 
more  than  about  5 per  cent,  of  cotton-seed  oil).  If  5 Cc.  of  the  oil,  contained  in  a small 
flask,  be  mixed  with  a solution  of  2 Gm.  of  potassium  hydroxide  in  2 Cc.  of  water,  then 
5 Cc.  of  alcohol  added,  and  the  mixture  heated  for  about  five  minutes  on  a water-bath, 
with  occasional  agitation,  a perfectly  clear  and  complete  solution  should  result,  which, 
after  dilution  with  water  to  the  volume  of  50  Cc.,  should  form  a transparent,  light  yellow 
liquid,  without  the  separation  of  any  oily  layer  (absence  of  appreciable  quantities  of 
paraffin  oils). — U.  S. 

Composition. — It  consists  mainly  of  olein,  with  variable  quantities  of  palmitin  and 
stearin. 

OLEUM  .SETHEREUM,  77.  S. — Ethereal  Oil. 

A volatile  liquid  consisting  of  equal  volumes  of  heavy  oil  of  wine  and  ether. — U.  S. 

Heavy  oil  of  wine  is  a complex  mixture  of  ethyl  sulphate,  (C2H5)2S04,  and  varying 
proportions  of  certain  polymeric  hydrocarbons  (etherin  and  etherol),  and  no  definite 
chemical  formula  can  therefore  be  accepted  for  the  same. 

Preparation. — Alcohol,  1000  Cc. ; Sulphuric  Acid,  1000  Cc. ; Distilled  Water,  25 
Cc. ; Ether;  a sufficient  quantity.  Add  the  acid  slowly  to  the  alcohol,  mix  them  thor- 
oughly, and  allow  the  mixture  to  stand,  in  a closed  flask,  for  twenty-four  hours ; then 
pour  the  clear  liquid  into  a tubulated  retort  of  such  capacity  that  the  mixture  shall 
nearly  fill  it.  Insert  a thermometer  through  the  tubulure,  so  that  the  bulb  shall  be 
deeply  immersed  in  the  liquid,  and,  having  connected  the  retort  with  a well-cooled  con- 
denser, and  also  having  connected  with  the  receiver  a bent  glass  tube  for  conducting  the 
uncondensed  gases  into  water,  distil,  by  means  of  a sand-bath,  at  a temperature  between 


1104 


OLEUM  jETIIEREUM. 


150°  and  160°  C.  (302°  and  320°  F.),  until  the  liquid  ceases  to  come  over  or  until  a 
black  froth  begins  to  rise  in  the  retort.  Separate  the  yellow,  ethereal  liquid  from  the 
distillate,  and  expose  it  to  the  air  for  twenty-four  hours  in  a shallow  capsule.  Then 
transfer  it  to  a wet  filter,  and,  when  the  watery  portion  has  drained  off,  wash  the  oil 
which  is  left  on  the  filter  with  the  distilled  water,  which  should  be  as  cold  as  possible. 
When  this  also  has  drained  off,  transfer  the  oil  to  a graduated  measure,  and  add  to  it  an 
equal  volume  of  ether. — U.  S. 

The  reaction  upon  each  other  of  alcohol  and  sulphuric  acid  in  the  production  of  ether 
is  explained  under  ^Ether,  page  129,  sulphovinic  acid,  HC2H5S04,  being  first  formed. 

When  this  acid  is  heated  with  a further  supply  of  alcohol,  ether  distils  over ; if  water 
instead  of  alcohol  be  added  and  then  heat  applied,  alcohol  distils  over  and  sulphuric  acid 
is  set  free ; on  heating  the  sulphovinic  acid  by  itself,  gas  is  copiously  given  off,  consisting 
chiefly  of  ethylene  ( sethene , elayl , olefiant  gas),  C2H4,  sulphuric  acid  being  regenerated; 
HC2H5S04  yields  C2H4  and  H2S04,  while  the  free  sulphuric  acid  determines  further  decom- 
position, the  mass  becomes  charred,  and  carbonic  and  sulphur  dioxides  are  met  with 
among  the  gaseous  products.  On  heating  sulphuric  acid  to  about  150°  C.  (302°  F.)  and 
adding  slowly  sulphovinic  acid,  heavy  oil  of  wine  is  produced,  besides  other  gaseous  com- 
pounds and  carbonaceous  matter. 

Instead  of  operating  with  pure  sulphovinic  acid,  alcohol  and  sulphuric  acid  may  be 
allowed  to  react  upon  each  other,  whereby  the  products  must  necessarily  be  still  more 
complicated,  owing  to  the  presence  of  uncombined  alcohol  and  sulphuric  acid,  together 
with  water  and  sulphovinic  acid,  which  have  resulted  from  the  reaction  of  the  two  former ; 
in  all  cases  the  temperature  to  which  such  mixtures  are  heated  exerts  an  important  influ- 
ence, determining,  as  it  rises,  further  decomposition.  On  keeping  sulphuric  acid  at  a tem- 
perature of  160°  C.  (320°  F.)  and  passing  the  vapors  of  absolute  alcohol  into  it,  Lose 
obtained  ethylene,  sulphurous  acid,  water,  and  heavy  oil  of  wine,  while  the  retort  con- 
tained sulphuric,  isaethionic,  and  thiomelanic  acids ; but  on  previously  diluting  the  acid 
with  water  to  the  amount  of  30  per  cent,  and  using  80  per  cent,  alcohol,  Mitscherlich 
obtained  in  the  distillate  only  water  and  ethylene,  with  traces  of  alcohol  and  ether.  The 
carbonaceous  mass  mentioned  before  has  been  named  thiomelanic  acid ; it  is  a black, 
rather  dense,  glossy  mass,  forming  with  bases  insoluble  compounds,  and  having  a complex 
composition,  approaching  the  empirical  formula  C28H16S07.  Issethionic  acid,  C2H5HS04, 
is  syrupy,  and  isomeric  with  sulphovinic  acid. 

The  production  of  heavy  oil  of  wine  evidently  depends  upon  the  absence  of  water  and 
the  generation  of  sulphurous  acid,  the  latter  being  accompanied  by  the  production  of  thio- 
melanic acid.  An  excess  of  sulphuric  acid  is  required  for  this  purpose,  and  this  is 
directed  in  the  above  formula,  the  quantity  of  acid  being  about  four  times  greater  than 
is  theoretically  necessary  for  the  production  of  sulphovinic  acid.  On  mixing  the  acid  and 
alcohol  a turbidity  is  seen,  and  subsequently  a white  precipitation  takes  place,  consisting 
of  lead  sulphate,  which  was  dissolved  in  the  sulphuric  acid ; this  should  be  removed  to 
avoid  the  concussions,  which  would  endanger  the  safety  of  the  retort.  When  distillation 
begins,  ether  and  water  come  over,  which  are  followed  by  sulphur  dioxide  gas,  ethylene, 
and  heavy  oil  of  wine,  and  the  distillate  finally  consists  of  an  aqueous  solution  of  sulphur- 
ous acid  and  a yellowish  ethereal  solution  of  the  oil.  The  gaseous  acid  should  be  con- 
ducted into  the  open  air  or  may  be  utilized  for  the  preparation  of  sulphites.  By  exposing 
the  ethereal  portion  of  the  distillate  to  the  air,  the  ether  evaporates,  leaving  the  oil  con- 
taminated with  some  acid  watery  liquid,  which  is  removed  by  draining  upon  a wet  filter 
and  washing,  after  which  the  oil  is  measured  and  dissolved  in  an  equal  volume  of  ether. 
This  has  been  found  necessary  to  avoid  the  spontaneous  decomposition  and  separation 
into  two  liquids  which  would  otherwise  take  place. 

The  process  now  official  is  essentially  that  devised  by  Squibb  (1858),  with  some  modi- 
fications suggested  by  C.  L.  Diehl  (1864).  The  proper  management  of  the  heat  influences 
the  yield  very  considerably  ; to  reduce  the  formation  of  ether  to  its  smallest  quantity, 
the  mixture  should  be  rapidly  heated  to  near  the  lowest  temperature  mentioned  in  the 
directions  (302°  F.),  and  should  never  be  permitted  to  fall  much  below  it ; if  it  should 
arise  above  160°  C.  (320°  F.),  there  is  great  danger  of  foaming  to  such  to  such  an  extent 
that  the  mixture  will  run  over  and  the  charge  be  lost.  Diehl  found  it  of  advantage  to 
let  the  temperature  rise  to  157°  or  158°  C.  (314.6°  or  316.4°  F.),  then  to  dampen  the  fire 
and  allow  the  distillation  to  proceed  spontaneously  until  the  temperature  is  reduced  to 
150°  C.,  when  heat  is  again  cautiously  applied  as  before,  and  then  heating  repeated  four 
or  five  times  until  the  charge  is  nearly  exhausted,  which  requires  from  10  to  12  hours 
when  working  with  5 to  7 gallons  of  the  mixture.  The  attention  required  for  smaller 


OLEUM  AMYGDALAE  AMARJE. 


1105 


quantities  is  nearly  the  same.  With  good  management  the  yield  varies  between  about 
1.6  and  2.3  per  cent.,  and  averages  about  2 per  cent,  of  the  weight  of  the  alcohol 
employed.  (See  also  a paper  in  Amer.  Jour.  Phar .,  1865,  p.  100.) 

Properties. — Pure  heavy  oil  of  wine  is  a yellowish,  thickish,  oily  liquid  of  a 
peculiar  aromatic  odor  and  pungent,  refreshing,  bitterish  taste  somewhat  like  that  of 
mint.  It  is  neutral  to  dry  paper,  and  has  the  specific  gravity  1.129,  or,  according  to 
Serullas,  1.133,  when  quite  pure.  It  is  very  slightly  soluble  in  water,  but  dissolves 
readily  in  alcohol  and  ether.  On  being  kept  for  some  time  crystals  of  etherin  are  sepa- 
rated, which  have  the  same  elementary  composition  as  ethylene,  are  nearly  tasteless,  and 
on  warming  have  an  odor  similar  to  that  of  oil  of  wine ; the  crystals  have  the  spec.  grav. 
0.98,  melt  at  110°  C.  (230°  F.),  and  distil  at  260°  C.  (500°  F.)  without  leaving  any  resi- 
due. In  contact  with  cold  water  the  oil  of  wine  is  slowly,  with  warm  water  rapidly, 
decomposed  into  sulphovinic  acid  and  light  oil  of  wine  containing  etherin  in  solution. 
This  light  oil  of  urine,  or  etherol,  has  likewise  the  elementary  composition  of  ethylene,  but 
its  formula  is  probably  C8H16 ; it  is  yellowish,  of  a peculiar  odor,  specific  gravity  0.921, 
insoluble  in  water,  soluble  in  alcohol.  It  boils  at  280°  C.  (536°  F.),  is  tough  like  tur- 
pentine at  — 25°  C.  ( — 13°  F.),  and  solid  at  — 35°  C.  ( — 31°  F.). 

Diluted  with  ether,  as  directed  by  the  Pharmacopoeia,  oil  of  wine  is  a pale-yellowish, 
nearly  colorless  liquid  of  an  ethereal  and  aromatic  odor,  besides  that  peculiar  to  the  pure 
oil,  and  of  a pungent  and  refreshing  taste.  At  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  its  spec.  grav.  is  0.910. 

Composition. — The  analyses  of  Serullas,  Liebig,  and  others  lead  to  the  empirical 
formula  C8H18S207.  Serullas  regarded  heavy  oil  of  wine  as  the  double  sulphate  of  ethyl 
and  ethylene ; Liebig,  as  ethylsulphate  (sulphovinate)  of  etherol : the  latter  view  appears 
to  be  the  more  correct  one  if  the  decomposition  with  water  is  taken  into  consideration. 
Alkalies  also  decompose  it  into  sulphovinate  of  the  alkali,  liberating  etherol.  Or  it  may 
be  related  to  sulphuric  ether  or  ethyl  sulphate , discovered  by  Wetherill  (1848),  which  is  a 
yellowish  oil  of  the  specific  gravity  1.120,  has  a peppermint-like  odor  and  pungent  taste, 
and  the  composition  of  which  is  expressed  by  the  formula  (C2H5)2S04.  Sulphurous  ether 
or  ethylsulphite , (C2H5)2S03,  which  was  discovered  by  Ebelmen  and  Bouquet  (1845),  has 
the  spec.  grav.  1.17  at  0°,  boils  at  208°  C.  (406.4°  F.),  and  is  decomposed  by  potassa  into 
potassium  sulphite  and  alcohol. 

E.  C.  Hartwig  (1881)  examined  the  oily  liquid  which  may  be  obtained  by  distilling  the 
acid  residue  left  in  the  distillation  of  ether.  This  oil  has  been  sold  as  oil  of  wine,  but  is 
totally  different  from  both  the  heavy  and  light  oils  of  wine  mentioned  above,  and  consists 
of  hydrocarbons,  ethers,  and  ketones,  among  them  ethylamylic  ether , C2H5.C5HnO,  which 
boils  at  112°  C.  (233.6°  F.);  diisoamylene , C10H20,  boiling  at  157°  C. ; ethylamyl  ketone , 
C2H5.C5Hn.CO,  boiling  near  155°  C.  (311°  F.);  and  several  others  having  a higher 
boiling-point. 

Uses. — Ethereal  oil  is  used  in  medicine  only  as  an  ingredient  of  the  compound  spirit 
of  ether. 

OLEUM  AMYGDALAE  AMARiE,  U.  £.-Oil  of  Bitter  Almond. 

Oleum  amygdalarum  ( amararum ) as thereum. — Essence  d’  amandes  ameres , Fr. ; Bitter - 

mandelol , G. 

The  volatile  oil  obtained  from  the  seeds  of  Amygdalus  communis,  var.  amara,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Rosaceae,  Amygdaleae  (see  page  193). 

Preparation. — Bitter  almonds  are  deprived  of  most  of  their  fixed  oil  by  pressure 
between  warm  plates;  the  press-cake  is  powdered,  mixed  with  about  six  times  its  weight 
of  water,  the  mixture  digested  for  a day  or  two  at  a temperature  of  about  50°  C. 
(122°  F.),  and  then  distilled. 

The  oil  does  not  pre-exist  in  the  almonds,  but  is  produced  through  the  decomposition 
of  amygdalin  by  emulsin,  hydrocyanic  acid  and  sugar  being  at  the  same  time  formed; 
C20H27NOn  (amygdalin)  and  2H20  yield  C12H24012  (glucose),  C7II60  (oil  of  bitter  almond), 
and  HCN  (hydrocyanic  acid).  This  decomposition  must  first  be  effected  before  distilla- 
tion is  resorted  to ; but  while  digesting  the  mixture  too  high  a heat  must  be  avoided, 
which  would  coagulate  the  emulsin  and  render  it  ineffective.  Distillation  by  superheated 
steam  is  preferable  to  the  use  of  the  naked  fire,  in  order  to  avoid  empyreuma.  The 
water  from  which  the  volatile  oil  has  been  separated  still  retains  notable  quantities  of  it 
m solution,  which  may  be  recovered  by  fractional  distillation.  To  avoid  the  troublesome 
concussions  during  distillation,  and  to  bring  all  the  amygdalin  under  the  influence  of 
emulsin,  Michael  Pettenkofer  (1861)  recommends  the  exhaustion  of  the  greater  portion 


1106 


OLEUM  AMYGDALAE  AM  A RYE. 


of  the  bitter-almond  cake  with  boiling  water,  whereby  the  albuminoids  are  coagulated  and 
the  amygdalin  is  dissolved  from  the  softened  tissue ; one-twelfth  of  the  press-cake, 
unboiled,  is  then  added  to  the  cold  mixture,  and  after  sufficient  maceration  distillation  is 
proceeded  with.  The  yield  varies  considerably,  but  is  usually  over  1 per  cent.,  and 
occasionally  reaches  3 per  cent.  The  importation  of  the  oil  into  the  United  States 
amounted  to  1602  pounds  in  1877,  and  to  4093  pounds  in  1883. 

Properties. — Oil  of  bitter  almond  is  colorless  or  yellowish,  limpid,  and  strongly 
refractive,  has  a peculiar  aromatic  odor,  resembling  that  of  hydrocyanic  acid,  and  a bitter 
and  burning  taste.  Freshly  prepared,  it  has  in  alcoholic  solution  a neutral  reaction  to 
test-paper,  but  old  oil  changes  the  color  of  blue  litmus  to  red.  It  varies  in  spec.  grav. 
between  1.06  and  1.075,  and  boils  at  about  180°  C.  (356°  F.).  When  freed  from  hydro- 
cyanic acid  and  rectified,  its  spec.  grav.  is  lowered  to  1.043  or  1.049,  but  it  retains  the 
aromatic  almond  odor.  It  is  soluble  in  300  parts  of  water  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  and  in  all 
proportions  of  alcohol  and  ether.  It  also  dissolves  without  change  of  composition  in 
cold  nitric  or  sulphuric  acid,  but  with  fuming  or  with  warm  nitric  acid  it  is  first  converted 
into  crystallizable  nitrobenzaldehyde,  and  finally  into  benzoic  acid,  red  nitrous  vapors 
being  evolved.  With  concentrated  sulphuric  acid  bitter-almond  oil  turns  deep-red,  and 
on  warming  black,  with  evolution  of  carbonic  acid  gas.  On  being  agitated  with  an 
aqueous  solution  of  potassium  bisulphite  a crystalline  compound  is  formed. 

Composition. — Pure  oil  of  bitter  almond  was  formerly  regarded  as  the  hydride  of 
the  radical  benzoyl  (C7H50),  but  in  its  chemical  relation  it  is  the  aldehyde  of  benzalcoliol , 
C7H80,  which  was  discovered  by  Cannizaro  (1853),  is  a colorless,  faintly  aromatic  oil,  and 
by  careful  oxidation  yields  benzaldehyde  or  bitter-almond  oil,  C7H60,  and  this,  by  further 
oxidation  on  exposure  to  the  air  or  by  means  of  oxidizing  agents,  is  converted  into  ben- 
zoic acid,  C7H602.  It  is  this  latter  compound  which  crystallizes  from  old  oil  of  bitter 
almonds. 

Pure  benzaldehyde  (artificial  oil  of  bitter  almond ) is  now  largely  made  in  Europe  from 
toluene , C7H8,  a liquid  hydrocarbon  contained  among  the  products  of  the  destructive  dis- 
tillation of  coal. 

The  crude  oil  contains  variable  quantities  of  benzimid , benzoin , and  hydrocyanic  acid , 
from  the  latter  of  which  it  may  be  freed  by  agitation  with  mercuric  oxide,  or,  preferably, 
ferrous  hydroxide  (a  mixture  of  lime  with  solution  of  ferrous  sulphate),  and  subsequent 
distillation.  Potassa  and  other  alkalies  may  likewise  be  employed,  but  an  excess  is  apt 
to  decompose  the  oil  with  the  production  of  benzoic  acid  and  benzalcohol.  According  to 
Volkel,  hydrocyanic  acid  is  contained  in  the  crude  oil  in  the  form  of  a compound, 
C7H6O.HNC,  which  is  a yellowish,  nearly  inodorous,  bitter  oil  of  spec.  grav.  1.124,  and 
boiling  at  170°  C.  (338°  F.).  Benzimid  has  the  composition  2C7H6O.C7H6(CN)2,  and 
forms  in  the  pure  state  colorless,  pearly,  inodorous  crystals,  which  on  being  boiled  with  i 
water  and  hydrochloric  acid  are  decomposed  into  oil  of  bitter  almond,  formic  acid,  and  j 
ammonia.  Benzoin , CuH]202,  crystallizes  in  inodorous  and  tasteless,  colorless  prisms 
which  are  polymeric  with  oil  of  bitter  almond,  and  are  converted  into  the  latter  by  pass-  I 
ing  their  vapor  through  a red-hot  tube. 

Adulterations.— The  principal  adulterations  are  nitrobenzene,  alcohol,  and  chloro- 
form, the  last  two  being  sometimes  used  together  to  leave  the  specific  gravity  unchanged. 

By  distilling  a little  of  the  suspected  oil  from  a test-tube  placed  in  a water-bath  kept  at 
a temperature  not  exceeding  65°  C.  (149°  F.),  the  chloroform  will  distil  over,  while 
alcohol  will  distil  at  about  80°  C.  (176°  F.),  the  distillates  showing  the  behavior  of  these 
compounds.  On  dropping  oil  of  bitter  almond  containing  alcohol  into  water,  the  drops, 
while  floating  or  subsiding  in  the  water,  will  become  milk-white.  Nitrobenzene  (see  Nitro- 
benzenum)  has  an  odor  similar  to  that  of  bitter-almond  oil  and  a sweet  taste,  and  is  nearly 
insoluble  in  water.  We  found  it  convenient  (1857)  to  test  for  it  by  dissolving  15  grains 
of  the  oil  in  2 drachms  of  alcohol,  adding  15  grains  of  caustic  potassa,  heating  for  a few 
minutes,  evaporating  to  one-third,  and  cooling.  The  pure  oil  will  leave  a brownish-yellow 
liquid,  soluble  in  water,  with  but  slight  turbidity  ; while  if  nitrobenzene  be  present  the 
residue  will  be  dark-brown,  sometimes  crystalline,  and  not  dissolve  clear  in  water,  deposit- 
ing a brown-yellow  sediment  in  proportion  to  the  amount  of  the  adulterant.  The  test 
depends  upon  the  conversion  of  nitrobenzene,  C6H5N02,  into  azoxybenzid , C12Hi0N2O, 
which  dissolves  in  alcohol  and  ether,  but  is  insoluble  in  water.  Wagner  (1866)  proposed 
to  agitate  5 Cc.  of  the  suspected  oil  with  10  Cc.  of  solution  of  sodium  bisulphite  spec, 
grav.  1.225,  and  dilute  with  water  to  50  Cc.  in  a graduated  tube ; pure  bitter-almond  oil 
will  dissolve,  while  the  nitrobenzene  (spec.  grav.  1.20)  will  separate  as  an  oily  layer. 
More  delicate  tests  for  this  substance  depend  upon  its  reduction  to  aniline.  According 


OLEUM  AMYGDALAE  EXPRESSTJM. 


1107 


to  Hoffmann  (1845),  the  oil  is  diluted  with  ether  and  some  alcohol,  after  which  some  zinc 
and  hydrochloric  acid  are  added ; after  the  evolution  of  hydrogen  has  ceased  the  ethereal 
layer  is  evaporated  spontaneously,  and  the  residue  mixed  with  a few  drops  of  solution  of 
chlorinated  lime,  when  a purplish-blue  color  will  be  produced.  Jacquemin  (1876)  recom- 
mended adding  a few  drops  of  the  oil  to  a solution  of  stannous  chloride  in  caustic  soda, 
and  afterward  a drop  of  carbolic  acid  and  some  solution  of  chlorinated  soda,  when  the 
blue  color  of  sodium  erythrophenate  will  appear.  Boyveau  (1879)  noticed  an  adultera- 
tion with  a substance  of  undetermined  origin,  which  gives  with  an  equal  volume  of  sul- 
phuric acid  a red  mixture,  changing  to  brown,  turbid,  becoming  thick,  and  in  a few  days 
solidifying,  while  a similar  mixture  with  pure  bitter-almond  oil  darkens  in  color,  but 
remains  liquid  and  clear. 

Tests. — “ If  10  drops  of  the  oil,  dissolved  in  a little  alcohol,  be  shaken  with  a few 
drops  of  a strong  solution  of  sodium  hydroxide,  then  with  a little  ferrous  sulphate  test- 
solution,  and  finally  mixed  with  a slight  excess  of  hydrochloric  acid,  a blue  precipitate 
will  be  produced  (presence  of  hydrocyanic  acid.)  If  a small  strip  of  filter-paper,  folded 
in  the  form  of  a taper,  be  saturated  with  the  oil,  and  placed  in  a small  porcelain  capsule 
resting  within  a larger  porcelain  plate  or  dish,  and,  after  the  taper  is  ignited,  there  be 
immediately  inverted  over  the  capsule  a large  beaker,  the  inner  surface  of  which  is  mois- 
tened with  distilled  water,  the  products  of  combustion  will  be  absorbed  by  the  latter.  If 
the  heaker  be  now  rinsed  with  a little  distilled  water  and  the  liquid  filtered,  the  filtrate 
should  yield  no  turbidity  with  silver  nitrate  test-solution  (absence  of  artificial  oil,  con- 
taining chlorinated  products).  If  5 Cc.  of  the  oil  be  vigorously  shaken,  in  a flask,  with 
50  Cc.  of  a cold,  saturated  solution  of  sodium  bisulphite,  and  the  mixture  heated  for  a 
few  minutes  on  a water-bath,  the  odor  of  the  oil  should  disappear,  and  a nearly  clear 
solution  result,  without  the  separation  of  any  oily  drops  on  the  surface  of  the  liquid 
(absence  of  most  other  volatile  oils  and  of  nitro-benzene). — U.  S. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparations. — Iodinized  oil  of  bitter  almonds  was  pro- 
posed by  Hr.  Blackwell  (1878).  It  is  prepared  by  leaving  in  contact  for  two  or  three 
months  1 part  of  iodine  and  2 parts  of  oil  of  bitter  almond,  and  dissolves  easily  in  alco- 
hol, ether,  glycerin,  fats,  etc.  It  probably  contains  benzoyl  iodide , C7IH50,  which  was  dis- 
covered by  Liebig  and  Wohler  (1832),  and  when  pure  crystallizes  in  colorless  fusible 
laminae  having  a somewhat  pungent  aromatic  odor. 

Action  and  Uses. — Oil  of  bitter  almond  exceeds  diluted  hydrocyanic  acid  in  its 
poisonous  power,  since  100  parts  of  the  oil  contain  nearly  13  parts  of  anhydrous  hydro- 
cyanic acid,  while  the  diluted  acid  contains  but  2 per  cent,  of  the  latter  compound.  1 
drop  of  the  anhydrous  oil  has  been  known  to  kill  a cat.  In  man  grave  and  even  fatal 
effects  have  resulted  from  a dose  of  17  drops,  but  on  the  other  hand,  recovery  has  taken 
place  after  the  swallowing  of  £ ounce  or  more  when  remedial  measures  were  at  once 
applied.  Medicinally,  it  is  one  of  the  best  forms  in  which  hydrocyanic  acid  can  be 
administered,  owing  to  its  comparatively  stable  composition.  The  proper  occasions  for 
its  use  are  indicated  under  Hydrocyanic  Acid.  It  may  be  prescribed  in  doses  Gm.  0.015- 
0.05  (gtt.  i-j.) 

OLEUM  AMYGDALAE  EXPRESSUM,  U.  S.— Almond  Oil. 

Oleum  amygdalae , Br. ; Ol.  amygdalarum , P.  G. ; Ol.  amygdalae  dulcis. — Expressed  (sweet) 
oil  of  almond , E. ; Huile  d'amande  (douce),  Fr. ; Mandelol,  Siissmandelol,  G. 

The  fixed  oil  expressed  from  the  seed  of  Amygdalus  communis,  var.  amara  or  dulcis, 
Linne. 

Mat.  Ord. — Rosaceae,  Amygdaleae  (see  page  193). 

Preparation. — Almond  oil  is  made  both  from  sweet  and  bitter  almonds.  To  obtain 
an  unobjectionable  oil,  the  almonds  are  freed  from  adhering  dust  by  agitating  them  upon  a 
sieve  and  removing  discolored  pieces,  after  which  they  are  ground  or  well  bruised  in  an 
iron  or  stone  mortar,  enclosed  in  canvas  bags,  and  subjected  to  considerable  pressure 
between  polished  steel  plates,  which  should  not  be  heated  beyond  about  30°  C.  (86°  F.). 
The  oily  edges  of  the  press-cake  may  be  powdered  and  again  expressed,  when  an  addi- 
tional quantity  of  oil  will  be  obtained.  The  yield  is  40  to  45  per  cent,  from  sweet,  and 
35  to  38  per  cent,  from  bitter,  almonds;  a little  more  when  a hydraulic  press  is  used. 
Expressing  the  residue  at  a higher  temperature  will  yield  more  oil,  which,  however,  is  of 
inferior  quality.  The  expressed  turbid  oil  is  set  aside  in  a cool  place,  and  then  decanted 
from  the  sediment,  which  may  be  filtered. 

Properties. — The  oil  is  nearly  colorless  or  of  a pale  straw  color,  almost  inodorous, 


1108 


OLEUM  ANETHI. 


and  has  a bland  slightly  nutty  taste.  It  is  a thin  oily  fluid,  remaining  clear  at — 10°  C. 
(18°  F.),  and  not  congealing  until  cooled  to  about — 20°  C.  ( — 4°  F.)  ; its  specific  gravity 
is  0.915  to  0.920  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  ; exposed  to  air,  it  readily  turns  rancid,  acquiring  an 
acrid  odor  and  taste,  dissolving  in  all  proportions  in  pure  ether,  chloroform,  benzin,  fixed 
oils,  etc.,  and  only  sparingly  in  alcohol ; it  is  not  a drying  oil.  Alcohol  on  being  agitated 
with  the  oil  dissolves  most  of  the  coloring  matter  of  the  latter,  together  with  a small  pro- 
portion of  the  oil. 

Composition. — It  consists  mainly  of  olein,  with  a minute  quantity  of  palmitin. 
(See  Oleum  Oliv^e.) 

Tests. — “ If  2 Cc.  of  the  oil  be  vigorously  shaken  with  1 Cc.  of  fuming  nitric  acid 
and  1 Cc.  of  water,  a whitish  not  red  or  brownish  mixture  should  be  produced,  which, 
after  standing  for  some  hours  at  about  10°  C.  (50°  F.),  should  separate  into  a solid,  white 
mass,  and  a scarcely  colored  liquid  (distinction  from  the  fixed  oils  of  apricot-  and  peach- 
kernels  and  from  sesamum,  cotton-seed,  and  poppy-seed  oils).  If  10  Cc.  of  the  oil  be 
mixed  with  15  Cc.  of  a 15  per  cent,  solution  of  sodium  hydroxide  and  10  Cc.  of  alcohol, 
the  mixture  allowed  to  stand  at  a temperature  of  35°  to  40°  C.  (95°  to  104°  F.),  with  occa- 
sional agitation,  until  it  becomes  clear,  and  then  diluted  with  100  Cc.  of  water,  the  clear 
solution  thus  obtained,  upon  the  subsequent  addition  of  an  excess  of  hydrochloric  acid, 
will  separate  a layer  of  oleic  acid.  This,  when  separated  from  the  aqueous  liquid,  washed 
with  warm  water,  and  clarified  in  a warm-bath,  will  remain  liquid  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.), 
although  sometimes  separating  particles  of  solid  matter  and  becoming  turbid.  1 part  of 
this  oleic  acid,  when  mixed  with  1 volume  of  alcohol,  should  afford  a clear  solution, 
which,  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  should  separate  no  fatty  acids,  and  which  should  not  become 
turbid  on  the  further  addition  of  1 volume  of  alcohol  (distinction  from  olive,  arachis, 
cotton-seed,  sesamum,  and  other  fixed  oils).” — U.  S. 

Allied  Drug. — Terminalia  catappa,  Linn£,  has  an  almond-like  edible  seed,  yielding  by 
expression  a bland  fixed  oil  which  does  not  readily  turn  rancid.  At  5°  C.  (41°  F.)  it  begins  to 
separate  stearin. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  expressed  oil  of  almond  is  a singularly  bland  and  agree- 
able oil  and  very  useful  as  a demulcent.  It  was  formerly  used  to  allay  cough  and  all 
irritations  of  the  respiratory  passages.  It  may  be  prescribed  in  doses  of  Gm.  4-16 
(fgix)  in  an  emulsion  made  with  mucilage  or  yelk  of  egg  and  white  sugar. 


OLEUM  ANETHI,  Bv.—Oil  of  Dill. 

Essence  d’ aneth,  Fr. ; Dillol , G. 

Preparation. — The  volatile  oil  is  obtained  from  the  fruit  of  Anethum  graveolens, 
Linne  (nat.  ord.  Umbelliferae),  by  distillation  with  water.  The  yield  is  about  3 to  5 per 
cent. 

Properties. — Oil  of  dill  has  a pale-yellow  color,  gradually  changing  to  reddish- 
brown,  the  peculiar  aromatic  odor  of  the  fruit,  and  a sweetish  and  warm  afterward  pun- 
gent taste.  Its  specific  gravity  varies  between  .85  and  .89,  and  its  rotating  power  is  about 
206°  to  the  right.  It  dissolves  iodine  with  the  evolution  of  some  vapors,  and  is  colored 
red-brown  by  sulphuric  acid. 

Composition. — The  oil  contains  a hydrocarbon,  anethene , C10H16,  which  has  an  odor 
resembling  that  of  lemon,  and  an  oxygenated  portion  which,  according  to  Gladstone 
(1872),  is  isomeric  with  the  carvol  of  oil  of  caraway.  This  carvol  is  obtained  by  treating 
the  oil  with  alcoholic  solution  of  ammonium  sulphide  and  decomposing  the  crystalline 
compound  with  an  alkali.  Both  fractions  are  dextrogyre.  According  to  Nietzki  (1874) 
the  oxygenated  oil  is  identical  with  carvol,  and  amounts  to  about  30  per  cent.,  while  the 
terpene  consists  of  two  compounds — one  boiling  between  155°  and  160°  C.  (311°  and 
320°  F.),  and  having  the  odor  of  turpentine:  it  amounts  to  about  10  per  cent,  of  the 
oil,  the  remaining  fraction  of  60  per  cent,  boils  between  170°  and  175°  C.  (338°  and 
347°  F.),  has  a mace-like  odor,  and  acquires  the  characteristic  dill  odor  on  the  addition 
of  a little  carvol. 

Uses. — Oil  of  dill  is  very  seldom  used  in  this  country  ; like  anise  oil,  etc.,  it  may  be 
employed  to  relieve  flatulent  colic  and  externally  as  an  anodyne.  Dose , Gm.  0.10-0.30 
(gtt.  ii-v),  in  hot  water  and  sugar. 


OLEUM  ANIMALE  JET1IERE UM. 


1109 


OLEUM  ANIMALE  iETHEREUM.— Animal  Oil. 

Oleum  animale  Dippelii. — DippeT s animal  oil , E. ; Huile  animate  de  Dippel , Fr. ; 
JEtherisches  Thierol , G. 

Preparation. — On  the  dry  distillation  of  bones  and  other  animal  substances  a fetid, 
brown,  thick,  oily  liquid  is  obtained,  known  as  bone  oil,  crude,  or  fetid  animal  oil.  This 
is  purified  for  medicinal  use  by  distilling  it  in  a retort  or  flask,  which  is  heated  by  a sand- 
bath,  as  long  as  a thin  oil  passes  over.  This  is  then  mixed  with  four  times  its  weight  of 
water,  and  rectified  in  a metallic  still  as  long  as  the  distillate  is  colorless  or  but  slightly 
yellow.  The  oily  liquid  is  separated  from  the  water,  and  at  once  put  into  small  vials, 
well  corked  and  preserved  in  a dark  place.  Though  previously  known  and  medicinally 
employed,  it  was  first  prepared  from  dried  blood  by  J.  C.  Dippel  in  1711. 

Properties. — Rectified  animal  oil  is  a colorless  or  yellowish,  thin,  oily  liquid  which 
has  the  average  spec.  grav.  0.80.  It  has  a very  penetrating  empyreumatic  and  ethereal 
but  not  a fetid  odor,  and  a pungent,  acrid,  afterward  cooling  and  bitter  taste.  It  has  a 
slight  alkaline  reaction  to  test-paper,  dissolves  in  about  80  parts  of  water,  and  is  readily 
soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  and  fixed  and  volatile  oils.  Exposed  to  light  and  air,  it  rapidly 
darkens  in  color  and  acquires  a thicker  consistence. 

Constituents. — This  is  a very  complex  mixture,  containing  a large  number  of  vola- 
tile bases  like  pyrrol,  C4H5N,  pyridine,  C5H5N,  picoline,  C5H-0,  lutidine,  C7H9N,  collidine, 
C8HnN ; also  methylamine,  propylamine,  butylamine,  and  others.  It  contains  also  a neu- 
tral liquid  which  boils  at  65.5°  C.  (150°  F.),  and  different  hydrocarbons. 

Pyridine,  C5H5N,  a colorless  liquid  base  obtained  from  crude  bone-oil  by  treatment 
with  sulphuric  acid  and  subsequent  decomposition  with  soda ; the  mixture  of  liberated 
bases  is  subjected  to  fractional  distillation,  and  the  distillate,  freed  from  aniline  by  means 
of  oxidizing  agents  is  again  fractionated.  It  has  been  prepared  synthetically  by  action 
of  phosphorus  pentoxide  on  amyl  nitrate,  reduction  of  azoamidonaphtalene  in  alcoholic 
solution  by  means  of  stannous  chloride,  and  also  by  union  of  hydrocyanic  acid  and  acety- 
lene. Pyridine  when  pure  has  a peculiar  sharp  empyreumatic  taste,  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.) 
the  specific  gravity  0.980,  and  boils  at  117°  C.  (242.6°  F.).  It  is  readily  miscible  with 
water,  alcohol,  ether,  and  fixed  oils  in  all  proportions,  and  forms  salts  with  acids.  Its 
chief  use  medicinally  has  been  in  the  treatment  of  asthmatic  affections,  where  it  appears 
to  have  exerted  a palliative  action  when  administered  by  inhalation. 

Pyridine  should  not  be  confounded  with  Pyrodin,  the  name  given  to  an  impure 
hydracetin,  a coal-tar  derivative,  which  occurs  in  form  of  a white  powder,  and  for  which 
antipyretic  properties  have  been  claimed. 

Action  and  Uses. — Given  to  man  in  medicinal  doses,  it  excites  a sense  of  warmth 
in  the  abdomen,  renders  the  pulse  stronger  and  more  frequent  and  increases  the  sweat 
and  urine.  A tablespoonful  of  it  (Gm.  16),  is  said  to  have  killed  a man  almost  instanta- 
neously, and  H ounces  (Gm.  48),  taken  by  a woman  with  suicidal  intent,  caused  violent 
vomiting  and  intense  pain.  After  death  the  mouth  and  throat  were  dry  and  shrivelled 
and  the  stomach  inflamed  and  ecchymosed  (Werber,  Archiv  d.  Heilkunde,  xi.  544). 
Formerly,  the  oil  was  used  in  the  typhoid  state  of  febrile  affections,  in  hysteria , chorea , 
epilepsy,  paralysis,  chronic  rheumatism,  and  sciatica,  and  to  expel  tape-worms.  Internally, 
it  was  prescribed  in  doses  of  from  5 to  10  drops,  and  from  that  to  Gm.  0.30-2.60  (30  or 
40  drops),  mixed  with  powdered  sugar  or  in  sulphuric  ether  or  Hoffmann’s  anodyne. 
Externally,  it  was  applied  by  friction,  pure  or  in  liniments. 

Formerly,  a preparation  known  as  Chabert’s  oil,  and  which  was  procured  from  a mix- 
ture of  impure  empyreumatic  oil  with  oil  of  turpentine  by  distillation,  was  in  high  repute 
as  a cure  for  tape-worm.  Its  offensive  taste  and  smell  and  harsh  action  caused  it  to  be 
laid  aside  when  the  various  tseniacide  medicines  now  in  use  began  to  be  employed. 

Pyridine. — According  to  See,  the  special  virtue  of  pyridine  lies  in  its  power  of 
obtunding  the  reflex  sensibility,  and  he  adds  that  this  attribute  does  not  belong  in 
a like  degree  to  nicotine  or  to  atropine,  from  which  pyridine  is  derived.  But  this 
peculiar  soothing,  tranquillizing,  and,  in  excess,  paralyzing,  effect  belongs  to  tobacco, 
and  is  the  very  cause  of  its  universal  use.  See  further  states  that  when  an  asthmatic 
employs  the  inhalation  of  pyridine  several  times,  the  dry  rhonchi  in  his  lungs  give  place 
to  moist  rales,  the  breathing  and  expectoration  grow  freer,  and  the  attacks  less  frequent 
and  severe.  Naturally,  the  purely  nervous  cases  of  asthma  are  the  most  distinctly 
benefited,  although  a palliation  may  be  gained  in  others  attended  with  chronic  bronchial, 
and  even  by  cardiac,  lesions  {Bull,  de  Therap.,  cviii.  529  ; cix.  304).  De  Renzi  has 


1110 


OLEUM  A NISI. 


advocated  its  use  in  heart-failure  and  angina  pectoris  {Med.  Record , xxxiv.  647).  These 
conclusions  have  been  more  or  less  confirmed  by  Lublinski  {Centralhl.  f.  Ther.,  iii.  547), 
who,  however,  has  called  attention  to  certain  symptoms  occasionally  induced  by  the  medi- 
cine, such  as  nausea,  vomiting,  vertigo,  headache,  fainting,  and  oppression  at  the  prae- 
cordia ; also  by  Neff  {New  York  Med.  Jour.,  Mar.  1886)  and  by  Silva,  who,  besides  the 
untoward  effects  just  enumerated,  mentions  bitterness  of  the  mouth,  salivation,  coryza, 
and  roughness  of  the  throat  {Med.  Record , xxxi.  383),  and  also  by  Kelemin  {Ther.  Gaz ., 
xl.  189),  and  Zerner  {Centralhl.  f.  Med.,  vii.  214).  Lemaire  points  out  that  its  poison- 
ous effects  resemble  those  of  antipyrine,  and  include  cyanosis,  general  coldness,  sweating, 
and  collapse  (1888),  and  the  discharge  of  dark-red  or  brown  urine  containing  bile-acids 
and  salts,  renal  tube-casts,  lymph-cells,  and  red  blood-corpuscles.  (Compare  Egasse,  Bull, 
de  Therap.,  cix.  359.)  Dreschfeld  in  1888  pronounced  pyridine  a powerful  antipyretic 
which  was  easily  administered,  stimulated  the  skin,  and  occasioned  neither  nausea,  vomit- 
ing, nor  collapse,  and  possessing  over  antifebrin  and  antipyrine  the  advantage  of  not 
requiring  such  frequent  administration  ; but  he  admitted  it  to  be  more  poisonous  than 
those  preparations  {Mecl.  News,  liv.  74).  Its  destructive  action  on  the  red  blood-disks, 
the  element  of  the  blood  most  essential  to  life,  was  insisted  on  by  Zerner  {Centralhl.  f 
Ther.,  vii.  141,  214),  who  rejected  its  use  in  typhoid  fever,  and  regarded  it  as  useless  in 
all  other  acute  febrile  diseases  and  as  an  analgesic,  and  therefore  unworthy  of  being  retained 
as  a medicine.  To  these  conclusions  Pashkis  subscribed  {ibid.,  viii.  55). 

Pyridine  has  sometimes  been  administered  by  allowing  Gm.  4-5  (gr.  lx-lxxv)  to  evap- 
orate in  a small  room  occupied  by  the  patient.  Dreschfeld  stated  the  dose  at  Gm.  0.12- 
0.24  (gr.  ij-iv)  for  children,  and  at  Gm.  0.50-0.75  (gr.  viij-xij)  for  adults ; but  Lie- 
breich  pointed  out  that  this  dosage  applies  only  to  impure  pyridine,  while  of  the  pure 
article  (acetalphenylhydracin)  the  daily  dose  should,  for  children,  not  exceed  Gm.  0.03- 
0.06  (gr.  4-j),  and  for  adults  Gm.  0.12-0.18  (gr.  ij-iij),  {Therap.  Monatsh.,  iii.  23).  He 
reckons  the  pure  preparation  to  be  four  times  stronger  than  the  commercial  pyridine. 

Pyridine  tricarboxylic  acid  is  represented  by  Rademacher  {Therap.  Gaz.,  xi.  486)  as 
lowering  temperature  and  heart-action  without  causing  muscular  debility,  and  also  as  an 
antizymotic.  It  is  claimed  to  act  better  than  quinine  in  malarial  diseases , causing  none 
of  the  nervous  symptoms  occasioned  by  that  drug,  and  that  it  is  singularly  efficient  in 
nervous  asthma,  preventing  or  arresting  its  paroxysms.  These  statements,  made  in  1887, 
have  not  been  confirmed. 

OLEUM  ANISI,  U.  S.,  Br,— Oil  of  Anise. 

Essence  d'anis , Fr. ; Anisol,  G. 

The  volatile  oil  distilled  from  the  fruit  of  Pimpinella  Anisum,  Lime  (nat.  ord.  Umbel- 

liferae  ; see  p.  214. 

Preparation. — The  oil  is  obtained  by  distillation  of  the  fruit  with  water.  The 
yield  from  anise  is  14  to  24  per  cent.  ; from  star-anise,  24  to  4 per  cent. 

Properties. — The  oil  of  anise  is  colorless  or  pale-yellow,  becoming  darker  by  age, 
and  has  a sweet  aromatic  taste  and  an  agreeable  aromatic  odor.  The  spec.  grav.  is  0.98 
to  0.99,  rising  in  old  oils  sometimes  to  1.028  (Zeller).  At  a low  temperature  the  oils 
solidify  into  a crystallizing  mass,  the  freezing-point  of  the  true  anise  oil  being  usually 
near  10°  C.  (50°  F.).  It  varies,  however,  very  considerably,  not  only  in  oils  as  obtained 
from  different  material,  but  because  it  changes  on  keeping  and  becomes  lower.  The 
volatile  oil  distilled  from  anise-chaff  (pedicels,  unripe  fruit,  etc.)  is  said  to  contain 
more  stearopten  and  to  congeal  at  a higher  temperature  than  the  oil  of  the  ripe  fruit 
(Martius).  The  reactions  of  the  oils  of  anise  and  of  illicium  are  so  similar  that  they  do 
not  afford  any  reliable  means  for  distinguishing  them,  the  congealing  point  of  the  latter 
being,  however,  at  2°  C.  (35°  F.).  Both  oils  are  entirely  neutral  to  test-paper,  have  a 
very  slight  right  or  left  rotating  power,  are  freely  soluble  in  alcohol,  and  with  strong 
alcohol  form  clear  solutions  in  all  proportions. 

Composition. — Oil  of  anise  contains  a small  quantity  of  a hydrocarbon  having  the 
composition  Ci0H16,  but  consists  mainly  of  anethol,  C10H12O,  sp.  grav.  0.98  ; this  exists  in 
two  modifications — one  liquid,  the  other  solid,  at  the  ordinary  temperature  and  fusing  at 
about  20°  C.  (68°  F.),  and  both  boiling  between  220°  and  225°  C.  (428°  and  437°  F-) ; 
they  are  present  also  in  oil  of  fennel,  and  a liquid  modification  in  the  oil  of  Artemisia 
Dracunculus,  Lime,  or  tarragon , has  the  spec.  grav.  0.945  and  boils  at  206°  C.  (402.8°  F.). 
Anethol  has  a fainter  but  more  agreeable  odor  than  oil  of  anise.  It  is  not  altered  on 
being  boiled  with  potassa  solution ; chromic  acid  converts  it  into  colorless,  inodorous,  and 


OLEUM  A NTHEMID1S.  -OLE  UM  A UR  A NTH  C0RT1C1S. 


1111 


nearly  tasteless  crystals  of  anisic  acid , C8H803 ; nitric  acid  yields  the  same  compound,  or 
anisoic,  anisylic,  and  oxalic  acids,  according  to  its  concentration  and  duration  of  action. 
Sulphuric  acid  colors  it  red,  and  water  separates  afterward  inodorous  anisoin ; this  is 
isomeric  with  anethol,  like  metanethol  and  metanethol  camphor , which  are  produced  under 
certain  conditions.  Landolph  (1875)  found  Russian  oil  of  anise  to  contain  90  per  cent,  of 
a mixture  of  anisic  aldehyde  and  anise  camphor,  to  which  he  gives  the  formula  C10H16O. 

Adulterations. — Oil  of  anise  has  been  met  with  adulterated  with  alcohol,  camphor, 
wax,  and  spermaceti,  the  last  three  for  the  purpose  of  raising  its  congealing-point.  Anise 
oil  adulterated  with  alcohol  becomes  milk-white  on  being  dropped  into  water.  Camphor 
is  detected  in  the  pressed  crystalline  mass  by  its  odor,  the  other  two  by  their  insolubility 
in  80  per  cent,  of  alcohol.  Leonhardi  (1878)  reports  the  oil  to  be  sometimes  largely  adul- 
terated with  the  stearopten  of  Russian  fennel  oil,  which  is  detected  by  the  fennel  odor 
developed  on  heating. 

Tests. — Soluble  in  an  equal  volume  of  alcohol,  affording  a clear  solution  (absence  of 
most  fixed  oils  and  of  oil  of  turpentine).  This  solution  is  neutral  to  litmus-paper,  and 
should  not  assume  a blue  or  brownish  color  on  the  addition  of  a drop  of  ferric  chloride 
test-solution  (absence  of  some  volatile  oils  containing  phenols).  When  the  oil  is  dropped 
into  water  without  agitation,  it  should  not  produce  a milky  turbidity  (absence  of  alcohol). 
1 drop  of  anise  oil,  triturated  with  sugar  and  afterward  agitated  with  500  Gm.  of  water, 
should  impart  to  the  latter  the  pure  flavor  of  anise  (absence  of  other  volatile  oils). — P.  G. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparations. — Liquor  ammonii  anisatus,  P.  G.  Dissolve 
1 part  of  oil  of  anise  in  24  parts  of  alcohol,  and  add  5 parts  of  ammonia-water.  The 
liquid  is  yellowish  and  clear. 

Action  and  Uses. — Like  other  aromatic  essential  oils,  when  given  to  animals  in 
large  doses  it  occasions  lethargy  and  insensibility.  In  medicinal  doses  it  acts  as  a local 
and  general  stimulant,  and  is  used  to  expel  flatus , allay  colic , and  prevent  the  griping  of 
drastic  purgatives.  It  has  also  been  employed  in  the  treatment  of  chronic  bronchitis , 
associated  with  ammonium  carbonate  or  muriate.  It  may  be  prescribed  in  doses  of  Gm. 
0.12-0.40  (gtt.  ij-vj),  on  sugar  or  in  emulsion. 

OLEUM  ANTHEMIDIS,  Br. — Oil  of  Chamomile.. 

Oleum  chamomillse  romanse. — Essence  de  camomille  romaine , Fr.  ; Romischkamillenbl , G. 

Preparation. — The  volatile  oil  is  obtained  from  the  flowers  of  Anthemis  nobilis, 
Linne  (nat.  ord.  Compositae),  by  distillation  with  water.  The  yield  is  variable,  between 
about  4 and  £ per  cent. 

Properties. — Fresh  flowers  seem  to  yield  a blue-colored  oil,  while  that  obtained  from 
dried  flowers  has  a green  or  yellow  color,  or  if  blue  changes  rapidly  to  green  and  yellow. 
It  has  the  odor  of  the  flowers  and  a warm,  aromatic  taste  ; it  imparts  a red  color  to 
litmus-paper,  and  begins  to  boil  at  about  160°  C.  (320°  F.),  the  boiling-point  rising  grad- 
ually to  above  200°  C.  (392°  F.).  It  is  sometimes  distilled  from  the  entire  plant,  and 
has  then  a greenish  color,  which  on  exposure  changes  to  yellow.  Its  specific  gravity 
is  .90. 

Composition. — The  oil  does  not  combine  with  sodium  bisulphite.  Potassa  decom- 
poses it,  and  B.  Jaffe  (1865)  separated  in  this  way  58  per  cent,  of  impure  and  30  per 
cent,  of  pure  angelicic  acid.  Demar§ay  (1875)  arrived  at  the  conclusion  that  it  is  a mix- 
ture of  several  compound  ethers,  among  which  the  butylic  and  amylic  angelates  and 
valerianates  preponderate.  Koebig  (1873)  did  not  find  valerianic  acid,  but  besides  ange- 
latc  isolated  isobutylate  and  tiglinate  of  anthemol  and  of  a new  hexyl  ether ; these  ethers 
appear  to  be  present  in  the  fresh  oil.  Demargay  had  noticed  that  under  the  influence  of 
heat  angelicic  acid  is  converted  into  the  isomeric  tiglinic  acid. 

Action  and  Uses. — Oil  of  chamomile  is  stimulant  and  anti-spasmodic,  and  is  used 
to  allay  vomiting  and  relieve  flatulent  colic  and  to  modify  the  irritant  action  of  cathartics 
in  pill  or  mixture.  It  is  sometimes  added  to  liniments  used  for  sprains , rheumatic  pains , 
etc.  Dose , Gm.  0.05—0.30  (gtt.  i-v.). 

OLEUM  AURANTII  CORTICIS,  U.  S.— Oil  of  Orange-Peel. 

Oleum  aurantiorum. — Essence  d' orange,  Fr. ; Pomeranzenschalenbl , G. 

A volatile  oil  obtained  by  expression  from  the  fresh  peel  of  either  the  bitter  orange, 
Citrus  vulgaris,  Risso , or  the  sweet  orange,  Citrus  aurantium,  Linni. 

Nat.  Ord. — Rutaceae. 


1112 


OLEUM  A URANTII  FLORUM. 


Preparation. — The  volatile  oils  of  both  the  bitter  and  sweet  orange-peel  are  articles 
of  commerce,  and  both  are  prepared  in  the  southern  part  of  Europe  by  superficially  rup- 
turing the  ripe  fruit,  so  as  to  puncture  only  the  oil  glands  imbedded  under  the  yellow 
rind  ; or  the  fresh  peel  is  forcibly  twisted,  which  operation  causes  the  glands  to  discharge 
the  oil,  this  being  collected  first  upon  a sponge,  and  by  wringing  the  same  when  saturated 
in  a suitable  bowl.  A third  method  of  preparing  oil  of  orange-peel  consists  in  super- 
ficially grating  the  fruit,  so  as  to  remove  only  a thin  layer  of  the  rind  containing  the  oil- 
glands  ; the  grated  mass  is  then  deprived  of  the  greater  part  of  the  volatile  oil  by  pres- 
sure, and  the  residue  is  sometimes  distilled  with  water,  whereby  it  yields  a less  fragrant 
volatile  oil. 

Properties.— The  volatile  oils  of  the  two  orange  peels  are  distinguished  as — 

Oleum  aurantii  dulcis. — Oil  of  sweet  orange-peel,  E. ; Essence  d’  orange  douce, 
Essence  de  Portugal,  Ft.;  Apfelsinenol,  Portugalol,  G. 

Oleum  aurantii  amari. — Oil  of  bitter  orange-peel,  E. ; Essence  de  Bigarade,  Fr. ; 
Pomeranzenbl,  G. 

The  first  one  is  usually  employed  in  making  elixir  of  orange,  but,  though  it  differs 
from  the  latter  somewhat  in  flavor  and  in  being  more  readily  altered  by  exposure  to  air, 
the  two  oils  are  alike  in  chemical  composition  and  in  all  their  essential  properties.  Oil 
of  orange  is  of  a pale  or  greenish-yellow  color,  limpid,  its  specific  gravity  is  about  0.850 
at  15°  C.,  (59°  F.),  boils  near  180°  C.  (356°  F.),  and  rotates  polarized  light  considerably 
to  the  right.  It  has  a neutral  reaction  to  test-paper,  an  agreeable  orange  odor,  and  an 
aromatic  slightly  bitter  taste.  It  dissolves  freely  in  absolute  alcohol  and  in  carbon  disul- 
phide, in  an  equal  volume  of  acetic  acid,  and  requires  about  4 parts  of  alcohol  and  about 
8 or  10  parts  of  alcohol  spec.  grav.  0.850  for  solution ; oil  of  sweet  orange-peel  dissolves 
more  readily  than  the  bitter  variety.  Powdered  iodine  acts  energetically  upon  the  fresh 
oil,  producing  orange-colored  vapors.  Sulphuric  acid  causes  a deep-red  or  red-brown 
color.  Nitric  acid  colors  greenish -yellow,  and  on  warming  leaves  a brown-yellow  resin. 
Exposed  to  the  air,  oil  of  orange  gradually  becomes  thicker  and  acquires  a teribinthinate 
odor.  This  change  is  prevented,  or  at  least  considerably  retarded,  by  adding  to  the  oil  5 
per  cent,  of  strong  alcohol,  and  decanting  or  filtering,  if  necessary,  from  the  precipitate. 

Test. — When  kept  for  some  time,  the  oil  should  not  develop  a terebinthinate  odor  or 
taste  (absence  of  oil  of  turpentine  or  of  other  oils  containing  pinene). 

Composition. — Oil  of  orange  consists  mainly  of  the  hydrocarbon  hesperidene,  C10H16, 
and  contains  a small  portion  of  an  oxygenated  body,  C10Hi6O,  boiling  near  220°  (428° 
F.).  Hesperidene  yields  with  hydrochloric  acid  gas  a crystallizable  compound  having 
the  composition  C10H]62HC1.  C.  R.  A.  Wright  (1874)  obtained  also  a liquid  compound 
with  hydriodic  acid,  and  by  oxidation  with  nitric  acid  a slowly-crystallizing  hexabasic 
acid,  hesperisic  acid , C20H26O17.2H2O,  was  produced.  By  combining  hesperidene  with  bro- 
mine and  distilling  the  compound,  cymene , C10H14,  passes  over,  identical  with  that  con- 
tained in  cumin  oil  and  with  that  obtainable  from  camphor.  Wright  found  also  small 
proportions  of  a substance,  C40H64O5,  boiling  above  240°  C.  (464°  F.),  and  of  a non-vola- 
tile resin,  C2oH3003. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  essential  oil  of  orange-peel  is  irritant  and  narcotic.  Per- 
sons employed  in  manufacturing  it  suffer  greatly  from  erythematous,  papular,  and 
vesicular  eruptions  of  the  skin,  especially  of  the  hands  and  face,  and  also  from  nausea, 
vomiting,  and  other  dyspeptic  symptoms,  headache,  neuralgia,  and  a sort  of  intoxication 
denoted  by  confusion  of  the  mind  and  senses,  and  impaired  muscular  power.  Oil  of  orange- 
peel  is  used  almost  exclusively  as  a flavoring  or  perfuming  ingredient  of  medicinal  compounds. 


OLEUM  AURANTH  FLORUM,  V.  Oil  of  Orange-Flowers. 

Oleum  jlorum  naphse , Oleum  neroli,  s.  naphse. — Oil  of  neroli,  E. ; Essence  de  fleur 
For  anger,  Neroli , Fr. ; Pomeranzenbliithenol , Nerolibl , G. 

A volatile  oil  distilled  from  the  fresh  flowers  of  the  bitter  orange,  Citrus  vulgaris, 
Risso. 

Nat.  Ord. — Rutacem. 

Preparation. — This  volatile  oil  is  obtained  in  the  preparation  of  orange-flower  water, 
upon  the  surface  of  which  it  separates  in  small  proportion.  It  is  manufactured  chiefly  in 
the  southern  part  of  France  from  the  flowers  of  the  bitter  orange,  which  yields  about  0.0 
per  cent,  of  oil.  The  flowers  of  the  sweet  orange  and  of  allied  plants  are  far  less  aro- 
matic and  have  a more  or  less  different  odor. 


OLEUM  BERGAMOTTJE. 


1113 


Properties. — According  to  Fliickiger  and  Hanbury,  pure  oil  of  neroli  is  of  brownish 
hue,  a bitterish  aromatic  taste,  neutral  to  test-paper,  and  of  the  density  of  0.889  at  11° 
C.  (51.8°  F.).  It  shows  a bright  violet  fluorescence  when  mixed  with  alcohol,  or  more 
distinctly  by  pouring  a little  alcohol  on  the  surface  of  the  oil  and  causing  the  liquid  to 
gently  undulate.  The  oil  assumes  an  intense  permanent  crimson  hue  on  being  shaken 
with  a concentrated  solution  of  sodium  bisulphite.  Although  very  fragrant,  the  odor 
of  the  volatile  oil  differs  somewhat  from  that  of  orange-flowers  and  of  distilled  orange- 
flower  water.  The  oil  dissolves,  according  to  Zeller,  in  from  1 to  3 parts  of  alcohol  spec, 
grav.  .850,  the  solution  becoming  opalescent  or  turbid  with  more  alcohol.  Carbon  disul- 
phide likewise  yields  a turbid  solution  (Fliickiger).  Iodine  acts  energetically  upon  neroli 
oil,  colored  vapors  being  given  oft';  sulphuric  acid  colors  it  dark  orange-red  or  red-brown  ; 
nitric  acid  changes  the  color  to  yellow  and  rust-brown.  The  oil  deviates  polarized  light 
somewhat  to  the  right.  The  commercial  oil  is  usually  yellowish  or  reddish-yellow,  and  is 
frequently  adulterated  with  oil  of  bergamot  and  orange-leaves.  Old  resinified  oil  is  less 
fragrant,  but  may,  in  a measure,  be  restored  by  rectification  with  water. 

Composition. — Oil  of  neroli  is  a hydrocarbon,  C10H16,  containing  a small  quantity 
of  inodorous  crystallizable  camphor.  The  former  distils  between  185°  and  195°  C. 
(365°  and  383°  F.),  displays  the  violet  fluorescence  in  a marked  manner,  and  retains  the 
odor  of  the  original  oil  (Fliickiger).  Neroli  camphor  was  observed  by  Boullay  (1828), 
and,  according  to  Plisson  (1829),  may  be  obtained  from  the  oil  by  treatment  with  alcohol 
of  spec.  grav.  .850,  in  which  it  is  nearly  insoluble.  It  crystallizes  from  ether  or  hot 
alcohol  in  pearly  needles  or  prisms,  melts  at  55°  C.  (131°  F.),  and  when  pure  is  inodor- 
ous and  tasteless. 

Uses. — Oil  of  orange-flowers  belongs  rather  to  the  perfumer’s  than  to  the  pharmaceu- 
tist’s art,  but  it  may  be  employed  to  mask  the  smell  of  mixtures,  ointments,  etc. 

OLEUM  BERGAMOTTjE,  TJ.  S. — Oil  of  Bergamot. 

Oleum,  bergamottae . — Essence  de  bergamotte , Fr. ; Bergamottol , G. 

The  volatile  oil  obtained  by  expression,  from  the  fresh  rind  of  the  fruit  of  Citrus  Ber- 
garnia,  Risso  et  Poiteau , s.  C.  Aurantium,  var.  Bergamia,  Wight  et  Arnott.  Bentley  and 
Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 52. 

Nat.  Ord. — Butaceae. 

Origin. — The  fruit  is  of  a lemon-yellow  color,  and  grows  upon  a small  tree  in  South- 
ern Italy,  evidently  a variety  produced  by  cultivation  ; it  is  by  some  botanists  regarded  as 
closely  related  to  Citrus  Limetta,  Risso,  or  with  this  plant  as  a variety  of  C.  Limonum, 
Risso , while  others  regard  it  as  a hybrid  of  C.  medica  and  C.  Aurantium,  Risso.  The 
juice  of  the  fruit  has  a bitter  and  acrid  taste. 

Preparation. — The  oil-vessels  contained  in  the  rind  of  the  fruit  are  ruptured  by 
means  of  a machine  wherein  the  fruit  is  subjected  to  a rotatory  motion  ; the  oil  thus 
obtained  deposits  on  standing  a waxy  matter,  from  which  it  is  decanted.  The  amount 
imported  into  the  United  States  was  40,460  pounds  in  1858,  and  51.782  pounds  in  1882. 

Properties. — Oil  of  bergamot  has  a green  or  greenish,  sometimes  a yellowish,  color, 
and  after  rectification  is  colorless.  Its  specific  gravity  varies  between  0.880  and  0.885  at 
15°  C.  (59°  F.),  and  its  boiling-point  between  180°  and  195°  C.  (356°  and  383°  F.).  It 
has  a bitterish  aromatic  taste  and  an  agreeable  odor,  less  pleasant  after  rectification.  It 
has  a neutral  or  slightly  acid  reaction  to  test-paper.  It  dissolves  25  per  cent,  of  carbon 
disulphide  and  8 per  cent,  of  alcohol  0.966,  and  is  soluble  in  half  its  weight  of  alcohol  sp. 
gr.  0.85,  and  in  all  proportions  in  strong  alcohol  and  in  glacial  acetic  acid  ; the  alcoholic 
solution  becomes  dingy-brown  with  ferric  chloride.  It  deviates  polarized  light  to  the 
right  from  7°  ( Pharmacographia ) to  40°  (Gladstone),  and  reacts  briskly  with  iodine,  giv- 
ing off  purplish  and  yellow  vapors. 

Composition. — The  amount  of  oxygen  has  been  found  to  vary  between  2.6  and 
16.14  per  cent,  in  different  portions  of  the  distillate.  The  oil  appears  to  be  a mixture  of 
hydrocarbons  of  the  formula  C10H16  with  various  hydrates.  Distilled  with  phosphoric 
anhydride,  a volatile  oil  of  the  odor  of  turpentine  is  obtained.  The  waxy  matter  men- 
tioned above  crystallizes  from  alcohol  in  silky,  colorless,  inodorous,  and  tasteless  needles ; 
this  bergamot  camphor  or  bergaptene  has  the  composition  C9H603. 

Adulterations. — Oil  of  bergamot  is  often  adulterated  with  oil  of  orange,  and  occa- 
sionally with  oil  of  turpentine,  and  requires  then  a larger  amount  of  alcohol  for  solution. 
The  volatile  oils  obtained  by  distillation  with  water  of  the  leaves  and  of  the  nearly 
exhausted  rind,  when  mixed  with  oil  of  bergamot,  render  it  less  fragrant. 


1114 


OLEUM  BUBULUM.— OLEUM  CAJUPUTI. 


Tests. — 2 volumes  of  the  oil,  when  mixed  with  1 volume  of  alcohol,  should  afford  a 
clear  solution  of  a slightly  acid  reaction,  and  this  solution  should  not  become  turbid  on 
the  further  addition  of  alcohol  (distinction  from  the  oils  of  orange  and  of  lemon).  The 
oil  is  also  soluble,  in  all  proportions,  in  glacial  acetic  acid.  If  about  2 Gm.  of  the  oil  be 
evaporated  in  a small,  tared  capsule,  on  a water-bath,  until  the  odor  has  completely  dis- 
appeared, a soft,  green,  homogeneous  residue  should  be  left,  amounting  to  not  more  than 
about  6 per  cent,  of  the  oil  (absence  of  fatty  oils). 

Action  and  Uses. — It  is  a stimulant  like  other  volatile  oils,  but  is  seldom  employed 
except  for  the  purpose  of  scenting  ointments  and  toilet  tinctures. 

OLEUM  BUBULUM.— Neat’s-foot  Oil. 

Oleum  pedum  tauri , Axungia  pedum  tauri. — Huile  ( Graisse ) des  pieds  dugros  betail , Fr. ; 
Klauenol , Ochsenklauenfett , G. 

Preparation. — It  is  made  by  boiling  neat’s  feet,  deprived  of  their  hoofs,  with  water, 
skimming  off  the  oil  which  rises  to  the  surface,  and  keeping  it  for  some  time  on  warm 
water.  After  the  impurities  have  settled  it  is  ready  for  use. 

Properties. — Neat’s-foot  oil  is  a pale-yellow  and  (when  of  good  quality)  nearly  ino- 
dorous and  bland,  liquid  oil,  which  has  the  specific  gravity  .915  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  is 
but  slightly  thickened  on  exposure,  does  not  readily  turn  rancid,  and  requires  to  be  cooled 
to  below  the  freezing-point  of  water  before  it  congeals  to  a soft  white  mass.  On  saponi- 
fication it  yields  glycerin  and  oleic  acid  with  a little  stearic  acid.  Neat’s-foot  oil  is  turned 
brown  by  sulphuric  acid  or  a mixture  of  sulphuric  and  nitric  acids ; nitric  acid  colors  it 
yellow ; and  it  gradually  congeals  when  in  contact  with  nitroso-nitric  acid. 

Action  and  Uses. — Neat’s-foot  oil  is  much  used  in  softening  leather  and  rendering 
it  pliable.  Perhaps  this  operation  may  have  suggested  its  administration  in  medicine  as 
a substitute  for  cod-liver  oil.  If  it  had  been  efficient,  of  which  there  is  no  proof,  its 
singularly  repulsive  smell  and  taste  as  it  is  usually  met  with,  and  its  tendency  to  cause 
diarrhoea,  must  speedily  have  condemned  it. 

OLEUM  CADINUM,  V.  S.— Oil  of  Cade. 

Oleum  Juniperi  Empyreumaticum. — Huile  de  cade , Fr. ; Kade  Oel , G. 

A product  of  the  dry  distillation  of  the  wood  of  Juniperus  Oxycedrus,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Coniferae. 

Description. — Oil  of  cade  is  an  empyreumatic,  brownish  or  dark -brown,  clear,  thick 
liquid  possessing  a tarry  odor  and  an  empyreumatic,  burning,  somewhat  bitter  taste.  Its 
specific  gravity  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  is  about  0.990.  It  is  almost  insoluble  in  water,  but 
imparts  to  it  an  acid  reaction  ; alcohol  dissolves  it  only  partially,  but  ether  or  carbon 
disulphide  dissolves  it  completely.  The  empyreumatic  oil  of  common  juniper-wood  is 
said  to  be  often  sold  in  its  place. 

Action  and  Uses. — Oil  of  cade  is  extensively  used  in  Europe  in  the  treatment  of 
psoriasis,  pityriasis  rubra , chronic  eczema,  prurigo,  etc.  It  is  applied  either  in  liniments 
or  in  soft  potash  soaps,  pure  or  dissolved  in  alcohol.  The  preparations  have  the  same 
effect  as  the  analogous  ones  made  with  tar,  but  are  less  irritating,  have  less  smell,  and 
are  less  injurious  to  the  clothing.  Oil  of  cade  has  been  given  internally  as  an  anthel- 
mintic in  doses  of  Gm.  0.15-0.30  (gtt.  iij-vj)  several  times  a day.  Haarlem  oil , which 
is  said  to  be  composed  of  equal  parts  of  oil  of  cade  and  oil  of  juniper  berries,  has 
enjoyed  a great  vogue  in  chronic  affections  of  the  kidneys  and  bladder. 

OLEUM  CAJUPUTI,  U.  S.,  Br.— Oil  of  Oajuput. 

Oleum  cajeputi. — Oil  of  cajeput,  E. ; Essence  de  cajeput , Fr. ; Cajeputol , G. 

The  volatile  oil  obtained  from  the  leaves  of  Melaleuca  Leucadendron,  Linne.  Bentley 
and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  108. 

Nat.  Ord. — Myrtaceae. 

Origin. — The  species  mentioned  is  a small  tree,  which  has  lanceolate  entire  leaves  and 
terminal  spikes  of  small  white  flowers  with  exserted  stamens.  It  is  indigenous  to  the 
East  Indian  Islands.  Bentham  regards  it  as  a mere  variety  of  M.  Leucadendron,  Linnf , 
which  extends  into  Farther  India,  the  Philippines,  and  a considerable  portion  of  Australia, 
and  often  attains  a moderately  large  size,  sometimes  growing  to  the  height  of  27  M. 
(90  feet).  The  oil  is  prepared  in  Celebes,  Bouro,  and  other  islands  of  the  Molucca  Sea  by 
distilling  the  leaves  with  water. 


OLEUM  CAJUPUTI. 


1115 


Properties. — Oil  of  cajeput  is  limpid,  of  a green  or  bluish -green  color,  a penetrating 
odor,  suggesting  that  of  camphor,  rosemary,  and  mint,  and  a bitterish,  aromatic,  cam- 
phoraceous,  afterward  cooling  taste.  The  specific  gravity  varies  between  0.924  and  0.929  ; 
its  boiling-point  is  near  173°  C.  (343.4°  F.).  It  does  not  congeal  at  — 25°  C.  ( — 13°  F.), 
is  freely  soluble  in  alcohol,  and  affects  blue  litmus-paper.  It  dissolves  iodine  quietly  or 
with  the  evolution  of  few  reddish  vapors  ; ammonia  turns  it  yellowish,  and  sulphuric  acid 
colors  it  brown,  reddish,  and  finally  purplish-brown.  On  heating  5 parts  of  cajeput  oil  to 
50°  C.  (122°  F.),  and  then  adding  1 part  of  powdered  iodine,  the  solution  on  cooling  con- 
geals to  a magma  of  black  crystals,  which  by  recrystallization  from  alcohol  or  ether  may 
be  obtained  as  yellowish-green  prisms  having  a metallic  lustre,  and  which  liquefy  on  keep- 
ing (Schmidl).  By  rectification  the  oil  becomes  colorless. 

On  shaking  5 Cc.  of  the  green  oil  with  5 Cc.  of  water  acidulated  with  a drop  of  diluted 
hydrochloric  acid,  tne  oil  becomes  nearly  colorless.  If  to  this  acid  liquid  a drop  of  solu- 
tion of  potassium  ferrocyanide  be  added,  a red-brown  color  will  usually  be  produced 
(presence  of  traces  of  copper). 

Composition. — Blanchet  determined  its  composition  to  be  C10H16.H2O.  Schmidl 
(1860)  obtained,  between  175°  and  178°  C.  (347°  and  352.4°  F.),  two-thirds  of  the  oil 
as  a colorless  distillate  which  has  the  composition  stated,  and  is  the  hydrate  of  a hydro- 
carbon named  cajeputene , the  latter  obtainable  by  repeated  distillation  over  phosphoric 
anhydride.  Cajeputene,  C10H16,  boils  between  160°  and  165°  C.  (320°  and  329°  F.),  has 
an  agreeable  odor  of  hyacinth,  and  is  slightly  soluble  in  alcohol.  Two  other  hydrocarbons 
of  the  same  composition  and  sparing  solubility  in  alcohol  are  obtained  at  the  same  time, 
of  which  isocajeputene  boils  at  176°  C.  (348.8°  F.)  and  has  a less  agreeable  odor,  while 
paraca/eputene  is  thick,  yellow,  and  shows  a blue  fluorescence.  Gladstone  (1872)  found 
the  hydrate  of  cajeputene,  or  cajepuiol , also  in  the  volatile  oils  of  Melaleuca  ericifolia  and 
linarifolia,  Smith , and  of  Eucalyptus  oleosa,  F.  Mueller ; it  is  dextrogyre,  its  rotating  power 
varying  between  10°  and  30°. 

The  green  color  of  the  oil  is  sometimes,  at  least,  in  part  due  to  copper,  the  presence  of 
which  may  be  proven  by  agitating  the  oil  with  dilute  hydrochloric  acid,  when  its  green 
color  disappears,  and  testing  the  watery  liquid  with  potassium  ferrocyanide,  when  a red- 
brown  color  or  precipitate  will  occur.  However,  cajeput  oils  have  been  observed  which 
were  entirely  free  from  copper,  the  green  being  due  to  chlorophyll. 

Adulterations.— The  admixture  of  oil  of  turpentine  is  indicated  by  decreased  solu- 
bility in  alcohol  and  the  more  violent  reaction  with  iodine.  Imitations  made  by  mixing 
various  volatile  oils  are  detected  by  the  same  means  and  by  their  different  odor ; such 
mixtures  remain  liquid  when  treated  with  one-fifth  of  iodine,  as  described  above.  The 
oils  examined  by  Gladstone  cannot,  it  seems,  be  distinguished  from  the  official. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  oil  has  long  been  prized  in  the  East  as  a stimulant  and 
diaphoretic  medicine,  and  employed  in  dropsy,  flatulent  colic,  chronic  rheumatism,  paraly- 
sis, hysteria,  etc.  It  may  be  used  internally  as  a remedy  for  flatulent  colic , particularly 
when  it  is  produced  by  cold  or  by  the  retrocession  of  gout  or  rheumatism,  in  dysmenor- 
rhoea  occasioned  by  temporary  uterine  congestion,  in  cholera  morbus , and  in  epidemic 
cholera.  In  the  last-named  disease  it  has  been  largely  employed  by  Oriental  physicians. 
It  is  of  marked  utility  in  cases  of  nervous  vomiting , nervous  dysphagia , dyspnoea , and  hic- 
cough. It  has  also  been  used  as  a vermifuge.  As  a local  stimulant  and  rubefacient  it  is 
useful,  when  diluted  with  olive  oil  or  added  to  camphorated  liniments,  in  cases  of  func- 
tional paralysis  and  muscular  rheumatism . With  olive  oil  or  glycerin  it  is  introduced  on 
cotton  into  the  auditory  canal  for  the  relief  of  otalgia  and  of  deafness.  It  is  one  of  the 
best  remedies  for  toothache  depending  upon  caries,  when  a drop  of  it  upon  cotton  is 
introduced  into  the  hollow  tooth,  and  a few  drops  of  it  rubbed  upon  the  painful  part 
relieve  nervous  headache  and  local  neuralgia.  It  is  a useful  stimulant  in  chronic  scaly 
affections  of  the  skin  and  in  acne  rosacea.  It  may  be  given  internally  in  doses  of  Gm. 
0.10-0.60  (gtt.  ij-x)  on  sugar,  with  Hoffmann’s  anodyne,  or  with  tinctures  or  infusions 
of  antispasmodic  medicines.  As  a vermifuge  it  may  be  mixed  with  honey  in  the  pro- 
portion of  1 part  to  30  or  more,  and  dessert-spoonful  doses  of  the  mixture  may  be  given 
every  hour  or  two.  It  may  also  be  administered  by  enema. 

Melaleuca  flavi flora  yields  an  oil  which  is  closely  analogous  to  cajuput  oil,  and  is  used 
for  similar  purposes  by  the  people  of  New  Caledonia — viz.  externally  for  the  relief  of 
neuralgia,  muscular  rheumatism,  and  gout,  and  internally  as  a vermifuge,  especially  for 
rectal  ascarides,  in  enema  {Bull,  de  Therap .,  xcvii.  402).  M.  paraguayensis  is  said  to  be 
a sudorific.  An  extract  prepared  from  it  has  been  employed  in  the  treatment  of  rheu- 
matism, gout,  syphilis,  yellow  fever,  and  cholera  {Med.  Record , xvi.  132). 


1116  OLEUM  CARL— OLEUM  CARYOPHYLLL 


OLEUM  CARI,  77.  S.— Oil  of  Caraway. 

Oleum  carui,  Br. ; Oleum  carvi,  P.  G. — Essence  de  carvi , Fr. ; Kummelol , G. 

The  volatile  oil  distilled  from  the  fruit  of  Carum  Carui,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Umbelliferae. 

Preparation. — The  bruised  fruit  is  distilled  with  superheated  steam  ; the  yield  is 
variable,  but  averages  about  4 per  cent.,  and  may  be  as  high  as  7 per  cent.  The  fruit 
which  is  grown  in  northern  countries  is  generally  richer  in  oil  than  that  from  more 
southern  localities.  The  first  portion  of  the  distillate  contains  mainly  carvene,  the  odor- 
ous carvol  coming  over  last.  3600  pounds  passed  into  the  United  States  in  1867,  and 
9143  pounds  in  1882. 

Properties. — Oil  of  caraway  is  limpid,  colorless,  or  pale-yellow,  becoming  brown 
and  viscid  on  exposure.  Its  specific  gravity  is  usually  between  0.91  and  0.92,  at  15°  C. 
(59°  F.),  but  in  old  oil  may  rise  to  0.97.  When  fresh  it  has  no  action  on  litmus ; its 
odor  is  agreeable,  its  taste  aromatic.  It  dissolves  in  an  equal  volume  of  alcohol,  turns 
polarized  light  to  the  right,  and  commences  to  boil  at  175°  C.  (347°  F.).  The  German 
Pharmacopoeia  recognizes  only  oil  of  caraway  which  has  been  deprived  of  much  of  the 
carvene ; such  oil  should  have  a specific  gravity  of  not  less  than  0.910,  and  should  boil 
briskly  at  224°  C.  (435.2°  F.)  ; its  solution  in  an  equal  weight  of  alcohol  should  acquire  a 
reddish  or  pale-violet  color  on  the  addition  of  a drop  of  test-solution  of  ferric  chloride ; 
and  a mixture  of  10  parts  of  the  oil,  8 parts  of  alcohol,  and  1 part  of  ammonia-water,  on 
being  saturated  with  liydrosulphuric  acid  gas,  should  congeal  to  a white  crystalline  mass. 

An  inferior  oil  of  caraway  is  made  from  the  refuse  or  “ chaff”  of  the  fruit ; it  is  less 
agreeable  in  odor,  and  not  unfrequently  mixed  with  oil  of  turpentine. 

Composition. — By  repeated  fractional  distillation  Volkel  (1840)  separated  carvene , 
Ci0H16.  wnich  has  little  odor  and  taste,  boils  at  173°  C.  (343.4°  F.),  and  has  a strong  dex- 
trogyrate rotation.  The  higher  boiling  fraction  contains  carvol , C10HuO,  which  is  liquid, 
has  an  agreeable  caraway  odor,  boils  at  227°  C.  (440.6°  F.)  (Gladstone),  or  at  250°  C. 
(482°  F.)  (Varrentrapp),  and  has  a levogyrate  rotation.  In  contact  with  alcoholic  solu- 
tion of  ammonium  sulphide  carvol  yields  white  silky  needles  of  (C10H14O)2.H2S,  from 
which  it  is  again  separated  by  potassa.  Carvol  (see  also  Ol.  Anethi)  is  isomeric  with 
menthol  of  spearmint,  myristicol  of  nutmeg,  thymol,  cuminic  alcohol,  and  carvacrol ; the 
latter  is  a rather  viscid,  colorless,  or  yellowish  oil  resembling  creasote  in  odor  and  taste, 
and  may  be  obtained  by  distilling  a mixture  of  oil  of  caraway  and  potassa  until  carvene 
has  been  expelled,  decomposing  the  residue  by  sulphuric  acid,  and  rectifying  the  oil. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  properties  of  this  oil  are  nearly  identical  with  those  of  oil 
of  anise.  Given  to  animals  in  large  doses,  it  causes  death  by  asthenia.  It  may  be  used 
in  the  treatment  of  flatulent  colic  and  whenever  a gastric  stimulant  or  a carminative  is 
required.  Locally,  it  acts,  like  other  essential  oils,  as  an  ansesthetic.  It  may  be  admin- 
istered in  sweetened  water,  ether,  or  Hoffmann’s  anodyne,  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.05—0.60 
(gtt.  j-x). 

OLEUM  CARYOPHYLLI,  77.  S.,  Br.— Oil  of  Cloves. 

Oleum  caryophyllorum , P.  G. — Essence  de  girofle , Fr. ; Nelkenbl , G. 

The  volatile  oil  distilled  from  the  flower-buds  of  Eugenia  caryophyllata,  Thunberg. 

Nat.  Ord. — Myrtaceae. 

Preparation. — The  volatile  oil  is  obtained  from  cloves  by  distilling  them  with  water 
For  this  purpose  the  cloves  require  to  be  bruised  ; cohobation  should  be  repeatedly  resorted 
to,  and  salt  may  be  added  (see  Olea  Destillata)  in  order  to  raise  the  boiling-point.  If 
the  cloves  have  been  properly  bruised,  the  three  or  four  times  repeated  distillation  of  the 
water  from  the  same  cloves  is  usually  sufficient ; but  if  the  powder  be  very  coarse  the 
distillation  will  have  to  be  repeated  more  frequntly.  At  present  the  distillation  is  usually 
effected  with  superheated  steam.  At  first,  the  oil  coming  over  is  chiefly  the  light  portion 
which  floats  on  the  water ; afterward  the  heavy  portion  distils,  and  the  two  portions 
united  constitute  the  commercial  article.  The  yield  is  15  to  20  per  cent.  Clove-stalks 
are  said  to  be  sometimes  used  in  Europe  in  the  distillation  of  this  oil.  In  the  United 
States  cloves  from  South  America  are  employed  for  distilling  the  oil,  and  the  entire  want 
is  now  supplied  in  this  country.  In  1867  the  amount  imported  was  956  pounds,  whicn 
decreased  in  1877  and  1878  to  2 pounds,  and  was  302  pounds  in  1881. 

Properties. — When  recently  distilled,  oil  of  cloves  is  somewhat  thicker  than  most 


OLEUM  CARY OPH YL LI. 


1117 


other  volatile  oils,  and  has  a pale-yellow  color,  but  may  be  obtained  colorless  by  rectifica- 
tion, and  becomes  thicker,  darker,  and  finally  yellowish-brown,  on  keeping.  It  has  a 
strong  odor  of  cloves,  a burning  aromatic  taste,  and  boils  at  240°  C.  (455°  F.).  Its 
specific  gravity  varies  between  1.060  and  1.067  ; oil  of  clove-stalks,  though  agreeing  in 
odor,  has  a density  of  about  1.009.  Oil  of  cloves  dissolves  freely  in  alcohol,  the  solution 
having  a slight  acid  reaction  and  yielding  with  ferric  chloride  a purplish-blue  color.  Sul- 
phuric acid  colors  the  oil  blood-red,  finally  blue  ; and  it  acquires  also  a blue  or  violet 
color  when  exposed  in  a thin  layer  to  bromine  vapor ; iodine  dissolves  in  it  quietly  ; 
strong  potassa  solution  or  strong  ammonia-water  converts  it  into  a crystalline  mass  of 
potassium  eugenol ; a soft  yellowish  crystalline  mass  is  also  obtained  on  agitating  the  oil 
with  an  equal  volume  of  stronger  water  of  ammonia ; fuming  nitric  acid  acts  violently 
upon  the  oil,  sometimes  with  ignition.  The  oil  is  without  action  or  with  but  slight  action 
( — 4°,  Gladstone)  upon  polarized  light. 

Composition. — On  distilling  a mixture  of  cloves  with  excess  of  potassa  the  color- 
less distillate  is  the  light  oil  of  doves , and  has  the  composition  C15H24 ; its  odor  is  dis- 
tinct from  that  of  cloves — more  terebinthinate  ; it  has  the  density  0.918,  and  boils  at  251° 
C.  (483.8°  F.)  On  decomposing  the  potassium  eugenol  with  sulphuric  acid  and  rectify- 
ing the  separated  oil,  eugenol , C6H3.C3H5(OH)(OCH3).  is  obtained  as  a colorless  oil 
having  the  odor  of  cloves,  the  specific  gravity  1.076  (Stenhouse),  1.0785  (Pettit),  and 
boiling  at  247.5°  C.  (477.5°  F.)  ; it  yields  with  bases  crystallizable  salts,  which,  with  the 
exception  of  the  barium  compound,  are  decomposed  by  much  water  or  alcohol,  and  are 
colored  blue  or  purple  by  ferric  salts.  By  fusion  with  potassa,  eugenol  is  decomposed 
into  protecatechuic  and  acetic  acids.  L.  C.  Pettit  (1880)  obtained  72  per  cent,  of 
eugenol,  which  became  red,  and  then  purple,  with  sulphuric  acid  ; the  potassium  com- 
pound was  found  to  be  soluble  without  decomposition  in  alcohol  and  gtycerin,  and 
sparingly  soluble  in  benzin.  On  boiling  acetic  anhydride  with  eugenic  acid,  aceto-eugenol 
is  formed,  and  from  this  compound  vanillin  may  be  obtained  by  treating  it  carefully  with 
a weak  solution  of  potassium  permanganate,  rendering  the  liquid  alkaline,  concentrating, 
and  acidulating,  when  the  vanillin  may  be  extracted  with  ether  (Tiemann,  1878).  By 
treating  eugenic  acid  in  an  atmosphere  of  carbon  dioxide  with  sodium,  Scheuch  (1863) 
obtained  the  sodium  salt  of  eugetmic  acid , CnH^O^  which  is  crystallizable,  soluble  in 
water,  colors  ferric  salts  deep-blue,  and  is  decomposed  by  heat  into  carbonic  and  eugenic 
acids.  The  same  author  proved  likewise  the  presence  in  oil  of  cloves  of  salicylic  acid, 
most  probably  in  the  form  of  an  ether. 

Several  derivatives  of  eugenol  have  recently  been  brought  to  notice — namely  : 

Benzoyl-eugenol,  C6H3.C3H5(0CH3)C02C6H5,  is  obtained  by  a patented  process,  and 
occurs  in  neutral  acicular  crystals,  without  color  and  odor,  and  feebly  bitter  taste.  It 
melts  at  70.5°  C.  (158.9°  F.),is  scarcely  soluble  in  water,  but  freely  soluble  in  hot  alcohol, 
chloroform,  ether,  and  acetone. 

Ci.vxamyl-eugenol,  C6H3.  C3H5(0CH3)C02(CH)2C6H5,  forms  lustrous  needles,  which 
are  free  from  color,  odor,  and  taste,  and  melt  at  90°— 91°  C.  (194°— 195.8°  F.).  Its  sol- 
ubility corresponds  to  that  of  the  preceding  compound. 

Eugenol-acetamide  is  a patented  anaesthetic,  analogous  in  action  to  cocaine ; it 
occurs  as  a crystalline  powder,  and  is  obtained  from  eugenol-acetic-ethyl-ether  by  treat- 
ment with  strong  solution  of  ammonia. 

Adulterations. — The  determination  of  the  boiling-point  and  the  specific  gravity 
are  sufficient  for  detecting  most  adulterations  to  which  oil  of  cloves  is  sometimes  sub- 
ject ; on  treating  the  suspected  oil  with  alcoholic  solution  of  potassa  the  odor  of  cloves 
disappears  and  the  nature  of  the  adulteration  is  established.  For  the  detection  of  car- 
bolic acid  Jacquemin  (1875)  recommended  adding  a trace  of  aniline,  shaking  with 
water,  and  adding  a little  chlorinated  soda,  when  a blue  color  will  be  produced. 
Fliickiger  (1870)  proposed  to  shake  1 part  of  oil  with  50  parts  of  hot  water,  concentrate 
the  aqueous  liquid  by  evaporation  at  a moderate  heat,  add  a drop  of  ammonia  and  a 
little  chlorinated  lime  ; in  the  presence  of  carbolic  acid  a green  color,  passing  into  blue, 
will  be  produced.  - Hot  water,  on  being  agitated  with  oil  of  cloves,  should  not  acquire 
an  acid  reaction,  and  after  cooling  the  clear  filtrate  should  not  turn  blue  or  green 
on  the  addition  of  a drop  of  solution  of  ferric  chloride  (carbolic  acid),  but  it  should 
become  yellow  with  lime-water.  The  oil  should  yield  a clear  solution  with  an  equal 
weight  or  a little  more  of  alcohol  spec.  grav.  0.894  (oil  of  turpentine,  copaiva,  etc.”) 
— U.  S.,  P.  Ur.  If  2 drops  of  the  oil  be  dissolved  in  4 Cc.  of  alcohol,  and  a drop  of  ferric 
chloride  test  solution  added,  a bright  green  color  will  be  produced  ; and  if  the  same  test  be 
made  with  a drop  of  dilute  ferric  chloride,  prepared  by  diluting  the  test-solution  with  four 


1118 


OLEUM  CHENOPODII.— OLEUM  CINNAMOMI. 


times  its  volume  of  water,  a blue  color  will  be  produced,  which  soon  changes  to  yellow. 
If  1 Cc.  of  the  oil  be  mixed  with  2 Cc.  of  a mixture  of  2 volumes  of  alcohol  and  1 
volume  of  water,  it  should  form  a clear  and  perfect  solution  (absence  of  petroleum,  most 
fatty  oils,  oil  of  turpentine,  and  similar  oils).” — U.  S. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  action  and  uses  of  oil  of  cloves  are  essentially  the  same 
as  those  of  the  oils  of  caraway  and  anise.  It  is  seldom  employed  internally,  but  is 
sometimes  used  to  allay  the  pain  of  carious  teeth  and  of  earache.  The  dose  is  Gm.  0.10- 
0.30  (gtt.  ij-v). 

Benzoyl  eugenol  has  been  proposed  for  treating  tuberculous  affections,  but  there  is 
no  clinical  evidence  of  its  value. 

Eugenol  acetamide  is  said  to  be  a local  anaesthetic  applicable  in  minor  surgery. 

OLEUM  CHENOPODII,  TJ.  S. — Oil  of  Chenopodium. 

Oil  of  American  wormseed , E. ; Essence  de  chenopode  anthelmintique,  Fr. ; Chenopo- 
diumol , Amerikanisches  Wurmsamenol,  G. 

The  volatile  oil  is  obtained  from  the  fruit  of  Chenopodium  anthelminticum,  Linne . 

Nat.  Ord. — Chenopodiaceae  (see  page  446). 

Preparation. — Distillation  with  water  or  by  means  of  superheated  steam  yields  this 
volatile  oil.  Much  of  it  is  distilled  in  Maryland  and  in  some  of  the  Western  States.  The 
fruit  yields  about  3 to  3|  per  cent.,  the  fresh  herb  I to  1 per  cent.  The  Western  oil  is 
rather  less  pungent  than  the  Baltimore  oil  of  wormseed. 

Properties. — Oil  of  wormseed  is  colorless  or  yellowish,  limpid,  becoming  brown  and 
thick  on  exposure.  It  has  the  peculiar  odor  of  wormseed  and  a bitterish,  pungent,  and 
somewhat  cooling,  aromatic  taste.  Its  specific  gravity  is  about  0.970  ( U.  S.)  (0.920 
U.  S.,  1880)  ; when  fresh  it  is  0.902  to  0.91,  and  increases  by  age  to  .960.  It  is  readily 
soluble  in  alcohol,  the  solution  having  a neutral  reaction.  1 Cc.  of  the  oil  should  form 
a perfectly  clear  solution  with  10  Cc.  of  a mixture  of  3 volumes  of  alcohol  and  1 volume 
of  water. — U.  S.  It  boils  at  180°  to  190°  C.  (356°  to  374°  F.),  dissolves  iodine  slowly, 
and  turns  brown-red  when  boiled  with  nitro-prusside  of  copper. 

Composition. — Garrigues  (1854)  found  oil  of  wormseed  to  be  a mixture  of  a hydro- 
carbon, C10H16,  and  a liquid  oxygenated  oil,  C10H]6O.  The  former  has  the  density  0.932, 
boils  near  176°  C.  (350.6°  F.),  and  yields  a liquid  and  a crystalline  compound  with  chlo- 
rine. The  specific  gravity  of  the  latter  is  0.987,  its  boiling-point  245°  C.  (473°  F.). 

Action  and  Uses. — Many  cases  of  poisoning  by  this  oil  are  recorded.  A child 
six  years  old  took  several  successive  doses  of  15  drops  each  for  worms.  The  symptoms 
were  insensibility,  stertor,  rattling  in  the  throat,  a small,  feeble,  and  frequent  pulse,  con- 
vulsions of  one  side  of  the  body,  cold  extremities,  and  death  in  thirty-six  hours  ( Boston 
Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  xlv.  373).  Wormseed  oil  is  chiefly  used  as  an  anthelmintic, 
although  occasionally  employed  for  the  cure  of  intermittent  fever , hysteria , chorea,  and 
other  nervous  affections.  In  America  it  is  one  of  the  most  popular  remedies  for  lumhri- 
coid  worms,  but  it  has  also  been  used  successfully  to  expel  taeniae.  It  is  true  that  in 
Europe  some  observers  have  tended  to  discredit  its  efficacy,  and  even  in  this  country 
there  is  more  evidence  of  its  utility  in  cases  of  gastro-intestinal  dyspepsia  among 
children,  which  is  often  mistaken  for  verminous  disease,  than  of  its  direct  vermifuge 
powers.  It  may  be  given  to  children  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.30-0.60  (gtt.  v-x)  on  sugar,  and 
twice  daily  for  several  days,  when  it  should  be  followed  by  a dose  of  castor  oil,  or 
in  an  emulsion  flavored  with  extract  of  licorice.  (For  a formula  see  Amer.  Jour.  Phar ., 
lx.  545). 

OLEUM  CINNAMOMI,  U.  S.,  Br.,  P.  G.— Oil  of  Cinnamon. 

Oil  of  Cassia,  E. ; Essence  de  cannelle , Fr. ; Zimmtol,  G. 

The  volatile  oil  distilled  from  Cassia  cinnamon. 

Preparation.— The  British  and  French  Pharmacopoeias  recognize  only  the  volatile 
oil  of  Ceylon  cinnamon,  which  is  almost  exclusively  prepared  in  Ceylon  by  distilling  the 
chips  and  refuse  bark  with  water,  while  the  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia  and  the  German  Phar- 
macopoeia have  admitted  only  the  oil  of  Chinese  cinnamon.  Judging  from  the  custom- 
house entries,  but  little  of  the  Ceylon  oil  is  imported  into  the  United  States.  Ceylon 
cinnamon  yields  \ to  1 per  cent.,  Cassia  cinnamon  £ to  H per  cent.,  of  volatile  oil. 

Properties. — Oleum  CINNAMOMI  zeylanici. — Oil  of  Ceylon  cinnamon,  E. ; Essence 
de  cannelle  de  Ceylon,  Fr. ; Zeylonzimmtol,  G. — It  is  a pale-yellow  or  reddish  liquid, 


OLEUM  CINNAMOMI. 


1119 


becoming  red-brown  and  thicker  on  exposure,  finally  separating  crystals  of  cinnamic  acid. 
It  has  a strong  but  agreeable  cinnamon  odor  and  a sweet  and  at  the  same  time  hot, 
aromatic  taste.  Its  specific  gravity  is  about  1.035  (1.0097,  Jackson,  1882),  and  increases 
by  age.  It  remains  clear  at  the  freezing-point  of  water  (at  — 10°  C.  = 14°  F.,  U.  S.  P .), 
but  at  a still  lower  temperature  (at  — 20°  C.  = — 4°  F.,  Bizio)  separates  a stearopten  ; it 
has  no  action  on  polarized  light  or  shows  a slight  left  rotation,  is  readily  soluble  in 
alcohol,  sparingly  soluble  in  benzin,  and  has  a neutral  reaction  on  litmus-paper  when 
fresh,  and  an  acid  reaction  when  old.  It  dissolves  iodine  almost  quietly,  and  soon  forms 
a thick  mass ; fuming  nitric  acid  imparts  to  it  a carmine  color  without  causing  effer- 
vescence ; boiling  with  nitro-prusside  of  copper  turns  it  red,  then  dark -brown  ; its  alco- 
holic solution  is  somewhat  darkened  by  ferric  chloride.  Good  oil  of  cinnamon  does  not 
congeal  when  agitated  with  strong  solution  of  potassa. 

Oleum  cinnamomi  cassia,  s.  Oleum  cassia. — Oil  of  Chinese  cinnamon,  Oil  of 
cassia,  E. ; Essence  de  cannelle  de  Chine,  Fr. ; Zimmtkassienol,  G. — It  resembles  the 
preceding  oil  very  closely  in  all  its  properties,  except  that  its  color  is  more  brownish,  its 
odor  less  delicate,  its  taste  less  sweet,  and  its  specific  gravity  greater,  being  usually  1.055 
to  1.065  (1.0366,  Jackson,  1882)  ; sometimes  it  is  slightly  dextrogyre.  It  is  soluble  in 
an  equal  volume  of  alcohol,  and  this  sometimes  shows  an  acid  reaction  ; it  is  also  soluble 
in  an  equal  volume  of  glacial  acetic  acid.  A saturated  solution  of  sodium  bisulphite 
when  shaken  with  it  causes  solidification,  due  to  the  presence  of  cinnamic  aldehyde. 

Composition. — Both  oils  contain  variable  quantities  of  hydrocarbon,  but  consist 
chiefly  of  cinnamic  aldehyde , C9H80,  and  when  old  also  resin  and  cinnamic  acid,  C9H802. 
In  its  pure  state  cinnamaldehyde  is  a colorless  oil,  heavier  than  water,  combines  with 
strong  nitric  acid  in  the  cold,  forming  crystals,  which  are  soluble  in  alcohol  and  ether, 
decomposed  by  water,  and  when  heated  yield  oil  of  bitter  almond  and  benzoic  acid. 
Oxidizing  agents  generally,  when  acting  upon  cinnamaldehyde  generate  the  odor  of  bit- 
ter almonds,  and  finally  produce  benzoic  acid ; heated  with  solid  potassium  hydroxide, 
potassium  cinnamate  is  formed,  hydrogen  being  given  off ; C9H80  + KOH  yields  C9H7K02 
-|-  H2.  Cinnamic  acid  crystallizes  in  shining,  colorless  prisms,  which  are  inodorous,  dis- 
solve freely  in  alcohol,  ether,  and  boiling  water,  fuse  at  about  130°  C.  (266°  F.),  boil 
and  volatilize  without  decomposition  at  about  295°  C.  (563°  F.),  and  it  is  oxidized  by 
chlorinated  lime  and  hot  dilute  nitric  acid  to  oil  of  bitter  almond  and  benzoic  acid. 

Adulterations. — An  adulteration  with  oil  of  cloves  or  oil  of  cinnamon-leaves  can- 
not be  detected  by  the  odor,  except  on  heating,  when  acrid  vapors  will  be  given  off. 
The  behavior  to  ferric  chloride,  strong  potassa  solution,  and  cold  fuming  nitric  acid 
affords  additional  means  for  detection. 

“ If  4 drops  of  the  oil  be  diluted  with  10  Cc.  of  alcohol,  the  subsequent  addition  of  a 
drop  of  ferric  chloride  test-solution  should  produce  a brown,  but  not  a green  or  blue 
color  (absence  of  oil  of  cloves  or  carbolic  acid). — U.  S.,  P.  G.  If  4 drops  of  the  oil, 
contained  in  a test-tube,  be  cooled  to  0°  C.  (32°  F.),  and  then  shaken  with  4 drops  of 
fuming  nitric  acid,  crystalline  needles  or  plates  will  be  formed.  If  a portion  of  the  oil 
be  shaken  with  water,  and  the  liquid  passed  through  a wet  filter,  the  clear  filtrate  should 
afford,  with  a few  drops  of  basic  lead  acetate  test-solution,  a white  turbidity,  without  a 
yellow  color  (absence  of  oil  of  cloves).  If  1 Cc.  of  the  oil  be  mixed  with  3 Cc.  of  a 
mixture  of  3 volumes  of  alcohol  and  1 volume  of  water,  it  should  form  a clear  solution  ; 
and  if  to  the  latter  2 Cc.  of  a saturated  solution  of  lead  acetate  in  a mixture  of  3 volumes 
of  alcohol  and  1 volume  of  water  be  gradually  added,  no  precipitate  should  be  produced 
(absence  of  petroleum,  or  of  colophony).” — U.  S. 

Allied  Oils. — Oleum  cinnamomi  foliorum. — Oil  of  cinnamon-leaves,  E.;  Essence  de  feuilles  de 
cannellier,  Fr. ; Zimmtblatterol,  G. — The  leaves  are  distilled  in  Ceylon  with  sea-water.  The  oil 
is  a rather  viscid  brown  liquid,  having  the  specific  gravity  1.053  and  a strong  clove-like  and  faint 
nutmeg-like  odor;  after  treatment  with  potassa  the  odor  resembles  that  of  cinnamon.  Stenhouse 
(1854)  found  in  the  oil  a terpene  and  eugenol,  with  a small  quantity  of  benzoic  acid;  the  latter 
could  not  be  detected  by  Schaer  (1882).  N.  A.  Kuhn  (1877)  showed  the  presence  of  cinnamic 
acid. 

Oleum  cinnamomi  radicis. — Oil  of  cinnamon-root,  E. ; Essence  de  racine  de  cannellier,  Fr.; 
Zimmtwurzelol,  G. — It  is  yellow,  lighter  than  water,  and  has  an  odor  like  that  of  a mixture  of 
cinnamon  and  camphor  and  a camphoraceous  taste. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  oil  is  much  employed  to  impart  an  agreeable  flavor  to 
medicinal  compounds  and  render  them  acceptable  to  the  stomach.  If  the  virtues 
attributed  to  cinnamon  (see  Cinnamomum)  in  uterine  haemorrhage  are  real,  they  would 
probably  be  displayed  more  efficiently  by  the  oil  than  by  any  other  preparation  of  the 
medicine.  The  dose  is  Gm.  0.05-0.10  (gtt.  j-ij). 


1120 


OLEUM  COCOS.— OLEUM  COPAIBJE. 


OLEUM  COCOS.— Oocoanut  Oil. 

Oleum  cocois. — Oocoanut  butter , E. ; Beurre  de  coco , Er. ; Rokosnussol,  G. 

From  Cocos  nucifera,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord, — Palmse. 

Origin. — The  cocoanut  tree  is  how  met  with  in  all  tropical  countries.  It  has  at  the 
apex  a tuft  of  leaves  which  are  3.6  M.  (12  feet)  and  more  long  and  have  numerous 
narrow  rigid  and  long  leaflets.  The  yellowish-white  flowers  produce  the  well-known 
cocoanuts,  which  in  their  unripe  state  contain  a sweetish  liquid.  The  seeds  contain  much 
fixed  oil,  which  is  obtained  by  hot  pressure  or  on  being  boiled  in  water.  The  seeds  of 
Cocos  butyracea,  Linne , of  Brazil,  yield  a similar  oil. 

Properties. — Cocoanut  oil  is  of  a butyraceous  consistence,  white,  and  has  a peculiar 
not  agreeable  odor,  which  is  also  observed  in  the  soap  prepared  with  it ; its  taste  is  mild 
and  bland,  but  on  exposure  to  the  air  it  becomes  rancid  and  acquires  an  acrid  taste.  Its 
melting-point  varies  between  22°  and  28°  or  30°  C.  (71.6°— 82.4°— 86°  F.)  ; the  cold 
pressed  oil  melts  at  20°  C.  (68°  F.)  or  less.  The  fused,  thin,  transparent,  yellowish  oil 
congeals  between  18°  and  12°  C.  (64.4°  and  53.6°  F.).  After  having  been  heated  to 
240°  C.  (464°  F.)  it  remains  liquid  for  several  days.  The  oil  is  readily  saponified  at  a 
low  temperature,  the  soap  being  white,  hard,  and  capable  of  uniting  with  much  water 
near  18°  C.  (64.4°  F.). 

Composition. — By  cold  pressure  it  may  be  separated  into  a liquid  and  solid  portion, 
both  of  which  are  glycerides.  According  to  Gorgey  and  Oudemans,  the  acids  contained 
in  cocoanut  oil  are  palmitic  and  myristic,  but  principally  lauric,  acid,  together  with 
caprinic,  caprylic,  and  capronic  acids. 

Action  and  Uses. — Cocoanut  oil  has  been  tried  as  a substitute  for  cod-liver  oil, 
but,  like  other  succedanea  for  that  product,  was  found  inefficient.  It  was  given  in  doses 
of  Gm.  16  (a  tablespoonful).  It  is  chiefly  valuable  for  its  economical  and  pharmaceu- 
tical uses.  In  Abyssinia  and  in  India  the  juice  and  pulp  of  the  cocanut  are  used  to 
expel  taeniae  ( Amer . Jour,  of  Med  Set.,  xcvii.  281). 

OLEUM  GOPAIBiE,  U.  S.,  Bv.—Oil  of  Copaiba. 

Oleum  balsami  copaioae. — Essence  de  copaliu , Fr. ; Copaibabl , G. 

The  volatile  oil  distilled  from  copaiba. 

Preparation. — The  oil  is  obtained  by  distilling  copaiba  with  water,  a metallic  still 
being  preferable  to  a glass  retort ; a considerable  quantity  of  water,  or  preferably  steam, 
should  be  used,  or  the  distilled  water  returned  to  the  still  until  all  the  oil  has  been 
obtained.  All  that  is  consumed  in  the  United  States  is  prepared  here  from  Para  copaiba, 
which  yields  50  to  60  per  cent.,  or  even  more. 

Properties. — Oil  of  copaiba  is  limpid,  colorless,  or  pale-yellowish,  and  on  exposure 
becomes  slowly  thicker  and  yellow.  It  has  the  odor  of  copaiba,  a pungent,  aromatic  and 
bitterish  taste,  neutral  reaction  to  test-paper,  spec.  grav.  0.89  to  0.91,  and  increasing  with 
age ; it  boils  at  about  250°  C.  (482°  F).  It  is  soluble  in  ten  times  its  volume  of  alcohol 
(U  S.  P .),  dissolves  in  about  40  parts  of  alcohol  spec.  grav.  0.85,  mixes  with  iodine  with- 
out violent  reaction,  and  yields  with  hydrochloric  acid  gas  a liquid  and  a crystallizable 
compound.  It  deviates  polarized  light  to  the  left. 

Composition. — The  oil  has  the  elementary  composition  of  oil  of  turpentine,  and 
consists  of  several  isomeric  modifications  of  C15H24,  differing  in  boiling-point,  in  the  beha- 
vior to  polarized  light,  and  probably  in  other  properties. 

Adulterations. — The  addition  of  oil  of  turpentine  is  detected  by  the  odor  and  by 
the  more  violent  reaction  with  iodine. 

Action  and  Uses. — Oil  of  copaiba  acts  upon  the  human  skin  very  feebly  as  an 
irritant.  When  taken  internally  it  is  excreted  by  the  urine,  which  then  furnishes  a pre- 
cipitate with  nitric  or  muriatic  acid.  It  is  very  doubtful  whether  it  exerts  any  efficient 
control  over  gonorrhoea , the  disease  for  which  copaiba  itself  is  chiefly  employed.  It 
probably  is  more  useful  in  chronic  pulmonary  catarrh  or  chronic  bronchitis , since  it  is 
apparently  through  the  lungs  that  the  odorous  constituent  of  all  oleoresins  is  eliminated. 
But  clinical  evidence  upon  this  point  is  wanting,  unless,  indeed,  the  negative  proof 
afforded  by  the  silence  of  all  competent  authorities  be  accepted  as  sufficient.  The  dose 
of  the  oil  is  Gm.  0.60-1  (gtt.  x-xv). 


OLEUM  CORIANDRI.— OLEUM  ERIGERONTIS  CANADENSIS. 


1121 


OLEUM  OORIANDRI,  V.  S.,  Br.— Oil  of  Coriander. 

Essence  de  coriandre , Fr. ; Korianderol , G. 

The  volatile  oil  distilled  from  the  fruit  of  Coriandrum  sativum,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Umbelliferae. 

Preparation.. — Coriander-fruit  is  ground,  and  then  distilled  with  water  or  by  means 
of  steam.  The  yield  varies  between  f and  1 per  cent. 

Properties. — It  is  colorless  or  pale-yellow,  has  a mild  and  agreeable  aromatic  odor 
of  coriander,  and  a warm,  spicy  taste,  a spec.  grav.  of  0.87  to  0.885,  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.) 
commences  to  boil  at  about  150°  C.  (302°  F.),  and  dissolves  readily  in  alcohol  and  glacial 
acetic  acid.  Iodine  and  fuming  nitric  acid  act  energetically  upon  it,  the  latter  producing 
a greenish  resin. 

Composition. — The  oil  has  the  composition  C10H,8O,  and  is  isomeric  with  borneol. 
From  Ivawalier’s  investigations  (1852)  it  appears  sometimes  to  contain  also  a hydrocar- 
bon, C10H16. 

Adulteration. — Leonhardi  (1878)  mentions  oil  of  orange,  which  is  detected  by  its 
insolubility  in  an  equal  bulk  of  85  per  cent,  alcohol. 

Action  and  Uses. — Like  oil  of  anise,  fennel,  etc.,  this  oil  is  aromatic  and  carmina- 
tive, and  is  used  in  flatulent  colic , to  relieve  the  pain  of  rheumatism , neuralgia , etc.,  and 
to  mitigate  the  griping  operation  of  certain  purgatives.  It  corrects  the  odor  and  taste 
of  fluid  extract  of  senna  better  than  any  other  aromatic.  Dose  Gm.  0.05-0.25  (gtt.  j-v). 

OLEUM  CUBEB^E,  U.  S.,  Br . — Oil  of  Cubeb. 

Oleum  cubebarum. — Oil  of  cubebs,  E. ; Essence  de  cubebe , Fr. ; Kubebenbl , G. 

The  volatile  oil  distilled  from  the  fruit  of  Cubeba  officinalis,  Miquel  (nat.  ord.  Pipera- 
ceae). 

Preparation. — Cubebs  are  ground,  and  then  distilled  with  steam  or  hot  water,  when 
repeated  cohobation  is  necessary.  The  yield  is  about  10  per  cent.,  but  varies  considerably 
with  the  quality  of  the  fruit.  It  is  distilled  in  the  United  States,  little  being  imported 
— 558  pounds  in  1867,  and  only  5 pounds  in  1877. 

Properties. — Oil  of  cubebs  has  a greenish  or  yellowish  tint,  but  after  rectification 
is  colorless,  and  on  exposure  becomes  thick  like  olive  oil.  It  has  the  odor  of  cubebs, 
a Warm,  camphoraceous,  aromatic  taste,  spec.  grav.  0.92,  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  a natural 
reaction,  boils  at  about  250°  C.  (482°  F.),  dissolves  in  25  parts  of  alcohol  sp.  gr.  0.85, 
and  turns  polarized  light  to  the  left.  Iodine  dissolves  in  the  oil  quietly,  but  evolves 
some  vapors ; concentrated  sulphuric  acid  colors  it  yellow,  and,  on  warming,  red.  It  is 
soluble  in  an  equal  volume  of  alcohol,  the  solution  being  neutral  to  test  paper. 

Composition. — Oglialoro  (1875)  showed  the  oil  to  be  a mixture  of  three  levogyrate 
hydrocarbons,  of  which  one  C10H16,  is  present  in  small  quantity  and  boils  between  158° 
and  163°  C.  (316.4°  and  325.4°  F.) ; the  remaining  two  have  the  composition  CI5H24,  and 
boil  between  262°  and  265°  C.  (503.6°  and  509°  F.) ; only  one  of  these  yields  a crys- 
tallizable  compound  with  HC1,  melting  at  118°  C.  (244.4°  F.).  At  a low  temperature 
the  oil  sometimes  separates  inodorous  crystals  of  cubeb  camphor , which  has  the  formula 
C30H482H2O,  and  fuses  at  65°  C.  (149°  F.). 

Action  and  Uses. — Oil  of  cubeb  produces  symptoms  almost  identical  with  those 
of  oil  of  copaiva,  but  more  strongly  marked.  It  causes,  occasionally,  an  eruption,  as 
copaiva  does.  It  displays  no  curative  virtues  in  gonorrhoea.  The  dose  is  Gm.  0.60-1 
(gtt-  x-xv)  or  more. 

OLEUM  ERIGERONTIS  CANADENSIS,  U.  8.— Oil  of  Canada 

Erigeron. 

The  volatile  oil  distilled  from  the  fresh  flowering  herb  of  Erigeron  canadense,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Compositae. 

Preparation. — The  fresh  herb  is  distilled  in  the  United  States  with  water  or  by 
means  of  steam. 

Properties. — Oil  of  erigeron  is  a limpid,  pale-yellow  liquid  of  a peculiar  aromatic, 
persistent  odor,  somewhat  like  that  of  hemlock  (Abies  canadensis),  and  of  an  aromatic 
not  very  pungent  taste.  It  has  the  spec.  grav.  0.850,  and  commences  to  boil  at  about 
155°  C.  (311°  F.),  the  largest  part  distilling  between  175°  to  180°  C.  (347°  F.) ; the 

71 


1122 


OLEUM  EUCALYPTI— OLEUM  FCENICULL 


redistilled  oil  is  colorless,  and  neutral  to  test-paper.  It  dissolves  iodine  without  explo- 
sion, is  gradually  colored  reddish  by  potassa,  and  slowly  acted  on  in  the  cold  by  fuming 
nitric  acid.  The  oil  becomes  thick  and  reddish-brown  by  age,  dissolves  freely  in  ether 
and  absolute  alcohol,  but  is  only  moderately  soluble  in  80  per  cent,  alcohol.  “ Soluble 
in  an  equal  volume  of  alcohol  (distinction  from  the  oil  of  fireweed  derived  from  Erechthites 
liieracifolia,  Rafinesque , nat.  ord.  Composite,  and  from  oil  of  turpentine),  this  solution 
being  neutral  or  slightly  acid  to  litmus ; also  soluble  in  an  equal  volume  of  glacial  acetic 
acid.” — U.  S. 

Composition. — The  oil  contains  oxygen,  as  ascertained  by  Procter  (1854),  but, 
according  to  Beilstein  and  E.  Wiegand  (1882),  it  consists  mainly  of  a terpene,  C10H16, 
boiling  at  176°  C.  (349°  F.),  and  yielding  a crystalline  compound  with  HC1,  which  melts 
near  48°  C.  (118.4°  F.). 

Action  and  Uses. — This  oil  has  had  a certain  reputation  for  controlling  uterine 
haemorrhage , and  the  plant  from  which  it  is  derived  was  held  by  the  aborigines  to  quicken 
uterine  contractions.  The  evidence  respecting  its  virtues  is  conflicting,  and  seems,  on  the 
whole,  not  adapted  to  inspire  much  confidence.  Like  other  nervo-vascular  stimulants,  it 
is  said  to  have  been  useful  in  the  typhoid  state.  The  dose  is  Gm.  0.30—0.60  (gtt.  v— x). 

OLEUM  EUCALYPTI,  U.  S.,  Br.—Ou,  of  Eucalyptus. 

Essence  d' eucalyptus,  Fr.  ; Eucalyptusol , G. 

The  volatile  oil  distilled  from  the  fresh  leaves  of  Eucalyptus  globulus,  Labillardiere, 
E.  oleosa,  F.  V.  Mueller , and  some  other  species  of  Eucalyptus. 

Nat.  Ord. — Myrtacese. 

Origin  and  Preparation. — The  first  species  mentioned  above  is  described  on  page 
626.  Bosisto  states  (see  Am.  Jour.  Phar .,  1876,  p.  372)  that  1000  pounds  of  the  fresh 
leaves  of  the  following  species  yield  the  quantities  of  oil  stated : E.  obliqua,  E Heritier, 
called  stringy  hark , 80  oz. ; E.  globulus,  Labillardiere , 120  oz. ; E.  sideroxylon,  Bentham , 
called  iron  hark , 160  oz. ; E.  oleosa,  Mueller , known  as  malice , 200  oz. ; while  E.  amygda- 
lina  yields  500  oz.  of  volatile  oil. 

Properties. — These  volatile  oils  are  colorless  or  pale-yellow,  thin  liquids,  becoming 
thicker  and  somewhat  darker  by  age.  They  are  neutral  to  test-paper,  are  more  or  less 
pungently  aromatic  and  camphoraceous  in  odor  and  taste,  that  of  Euc.  persicifolia,  or 
peach  gum , like  the  oil  of  bitter  almonds,  with  which  it  agrees  in  containing  hydrocyanic 
acid.  The  specific  gravity  of  these  oils  varies  between  0.915  and  0.925  at  15°  C.  (59°F.) 
and  their  boiling  points  between  about  130°  and  200°  C.  (266°  and  392°  F.). 

The  oils  are  soluble  in  alcohol,  carbon  disulphide,  or  glacial  acetic  acid  in  all  propor- 
tions. The  alcoholic  solution  being  neutral  or  slightly  acid  to  litmus-paper.  “ If  1 Cc. 
of  the  oil  be  mixed  with  2 Cc.  of  glacial  acetic  acid,  and  1 or  2 Cc.  of  a saturated, 
aqueous  solution  of  sodium  nitrite  gradually  added,  the  mixture,  when  gently  stirred, 
should  not  form  a crystalline  mass  (distinction  from  oils  of  eucalyptus  containing  a con- 
siderable proportion  of  phellandrene).”—  U.  S. 

Composition. — The  dextrogyre  oil  of  E.  globulus  was  examined  by  Cloez  (1870) 
and  by  Faust  and  Homeyer  (1874).  Cloez  regarded  the  oil  as  being  chiefly  composed  of 
eucdlyptol , C12H20O,  boiling  at  178°  C.  (352.4°  F.),  and  yielding  with  phosphoric  anhydride 
two  compounds,  C12II18,  of  which  eucalyptene  boils  at  165°  C.  (329°  F.),  and  eucalyptolene 
at  above  300°  C.  (572°  F.).  Faust  and  Homeyer,  however,  obtained  from  the  oil  about 
60  per  cent,  of  a terpene , C10Hi6,  boiling  between  172°  and  175°  C.  (342.6°  and  347°  F ), 
30  per  cent,  of  cymene , C10HU,  the  remainder  being  a terpene  boiling  at  150°  C.  (302°  F. }, 
and  an  oxygenated  compound,  probably  C10H]6O,  which  they  named  eucalyptol,  Cloez’s 
compound  of  the  same  name  being  a mixture  of  the  first  two  hydrocarbons,  which  rapidly 
combine  with  oxygen.  The  oil  of  E.  amygdalina  does  not  appear  to  contain  eucalyptol. 

Action  and  Uses. — For  an  account  of  the  virtues  ascribed  to  this  oil  the  reader  is 
referred  to  the  article  Eucalyptus.  The  dose  of  the  oil  is  Gm.  0.10-0.25  (gtt.  ij— v). 

OLEUM  FCENICULI,  U.  S.,  B.  G.— Oil  of  Fennel. 

Essence  de  fenouil , Fr. ; Fenchelol , G.  . ' 

The  volatile  oil  distilled  from  the  fruit  of  Foeniculum  vulgare,  Gaertner. 

Nat.  Ord. — Umbelliferae. 

Preparation. — Bruised  fennel  is  distilled  with  water,  or,  preferably,  by  means  of 


OLEUM  GA  ULTHERIjE. 


1123 


superheated  steam.  The  yield  is  about  3£  or  4 per  cent.  The  oil  used  in  the  United 
States  is  chiefly  procured  from  Germany  and  France. 

Properties. — Oil  of  fennel  is  colorless  or  yellowish,  has  a neutral  reaction,  an  agree- 
able fennel  odor,  a sweetish  aromatic  taste  ( oil  of  sweet  fennel ),  and  is  of  the  spec.  gray. 
0.90  to  0.99  (not  less  than  0.900,  U.  &);  it  congeals  below  10°  C.  (50°  F.),  sometimes 
not  until  cooled  below  the  freezing-point  of  water,  and  Zeller  obtained  an  oil  which 
remained  liquid  at  — 20°  C.  ( — 4°  F.)  , moreover,  the  congealing-point  of  the  oil  becomes 
lower  by  age.  An  oil  which  does  not  congeal  between  5°  and  10°  C.  (41°  and  50°  F.) 
cannot,  for  this  reason  alone,  be  considered  impure.  (See  also  Ol.  Anisi.)  Boiled  with 
nitro-prusside  of  copper,  oil  of  fennel  turns  yellowish-brown  or  red-brown  ; on  the  addi- 
tion of  iodine  it  becomes  thick  like  an  extract,  or  even  brittle.  It  is  soluble  in  alcohol 
in  all  proportions  in  an  equal  volume  of  glacial  acetic  acid,  and  turns  the  ray  of  polarized 
light  to  the  right. 

Composition. — The  difference  in  the  physical  properties  is  due  to  the  variable  pro- 
portion of  liquid  and  solid  anethol  contained  in  it.  (See  Ol.  Anisi.)  The  oil  also  con- 
tains a hydrocarbon  isomeric  with  oil  of  turpentine. 

Tests. — The  solution  in  alcohol  should  not  become  dark -colored  on  the  addition  of  a 
little  ferric  chloride  (phenol,  etc.).  1 drop  of  the  oil,  triturated  with  sugar  and  afterward 
with  500  Gm.  of  water,  should  impart  to  the  latter  the  pure  flavor  of  fennel  (other  vola- 
tile oils). — P.  G.  If  the  oil  be  dropped  into  water  without  agitation,  it  should  not  pro- 
duce a milky  turbidity  (absence  of  alcohol). 

Action  and  Uses. — The  action  of  fennel  oil  when  given  to  animals  in  large  doses 
appears  to  be  identical  with  that  of  oil  of  anise.  In  medicinal  operation  it  closely 
resembles  the  same  oil.  It  is  used  in  flatulent  disorders  and  to  qualify  the  action  of 
harsh  purgatives,  and  is  sometimes  employed  as  a galactagogue  and  as  an  emmenagogue. 
The  dose  is  Gm.  0.30—0.60  (gtt.  v— x). 

OLEUM  GAULTHERLE,  U.  S. — Oil  of  Gaultheria. 

Oil  of  Wintergreen , E ; Essence  de  gaultherie , Fr.  ; BergtJieeol , G. 

A volatile  oil,  consisting  almost  entirely  of  methyl  salicylate,  distilled  from  the  leaves 
of  Gaultheria  procumbens,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Ericaceae. 

Preparation. — The  entire  plant  is  generally  collected,  and  while  fresh  distilled  with 
water  or  with  the  aid  of  steam.  It  is  largely  made  in  New  York,  Pennsylvania,  and 
some  of  the  New  England  States.  The  average  yield  is  about  .5  per  cent.,  and  varies 
between  .4  and  .8  per  cent.  G.  W.  Kennedy  (1882)  showed  that  much  of  the  commercial 
oil  of  wintergreen  is  obtained  from  Betula  lenta  (see  page  338),  the  young  shoots  being 
distilled  after  having  been  cut  into  short  pieces  and  subjected  to  brief  maceration  with 
water ; the  yield  is  about  .23  per  cent. 

Properties. — Oil  of  gaultheria  is  usually  of  a reddish  color,  but  may  be  obtained 
colorless  by  rectification.  According  to  I.  E.  Leonard  (1884),  the  color  is  usually  due 
to  the  presence  of  a little  iron,  and  is  readily  removed  by  citric  acid.  It  has  a strong 
and  agreeable  aromatic  odor  and  a sweetish,  warm,  aromatic  taste,  and  begins  to  boil  at 
218°  to  221°  C.  (424.4°  to  429.8°  F.).  It  is  the  heaviest  of  the  volatile  oils,  its  density 
being  1.175  to  1.185  at  15°  C.,  which  is  also  that  of  oleum  betulae  volatile,  now  official  in 
the  Pharmacopoeia.  Occasionally,  oil  of  gaultheria  is  lighter  (1.170),  in  consequence  of 
containing  a light  hydrocarbon,  but  the  extent  of  this  variation  has  not  been  fully  deter- 
mined. The  oil  is  neutral  or  faintly  acid  to  test-paper;  has  a slight  dextrogyre  rotation, 
and  dissolves  readily  in  alcohol  and  but  to  a small  degree  in  water ; the  solutions  acquire 
a dark-purple  color  on  the  addition  of  ferric  chloride.  The  pure  oil  is  not  colored  on  the 
addition  of  strong  nitric  acid,  but  soon  congeals  into  colorless  crystals  of  a nitro-com- 
pound.  A solid  crystalline  mass  is  also  obtained  on  agitating  the  oil  with  concentrated 
solution  of  potassa  or  soda.  When  oil  of  gaultheria  is  prescribed,  the  Pharmacopoeia 
permits  the  use  of  methyl  salicylate  or  of  oil  of  sweet  birch. 

Composition. — Procter  (1842)  recognized  the  presence  in  this  oil  of  salicylic  acid. 
Cahours  subsequently  (1843)  proved  it  to  consist  to  the  amount  of  about  90  per  cent,  of 
methylsalicylic  acid  {methyl  salicylate  or  mono-methylsalicylic  ether),  CH3.C7H603,  which  with 
some  other  salicylic  ethers  is  now  also  artificially  prepared  for  use  in  the  arts.  II.  P. 
Pettigrew  (1883)  showed  the  oil  of  sweet  birch  to  be  pure  methyl  salicylate,  to  boil  con- 
stantly at  218°  C.  (424.4°  F.),  and  on  saponification  to  yield  methyl  alcohol  and  salicylic 
acid.  Pure  methyl  salicylate  is  a colorless  oil,  has  the  spec.  grav.  1.18,  boils  at  222°  C. 


1124 


OLEUM  GA  ULTHERIjE. 


(431.6°  F.)  (Cahours),  and  forms  crystalline  compounds  with  the  alkalies.  The  remain- 
ing constituent  of  oil  of  wintergreen — of  which  Pettigrew  (1884)  obtained  only  0.3  per 
cent. — is  gaultlierilene , a colorless  thin  hydrocarbon  of  the  formula  C10H,6,  boiling  at 
160°  C.  (320°  F.),  and  having  a strong  peculiar  odor,  described  as  pepper-like  by  Cahours. 
Volatile  oils  of  similar  composition  have  been  obtained  from  Gaultheria  liispidula,  G.  punc- 
tata, G.  leucocarpa,  Polygala  pauciflora,  and  Monotropa  Hypopitys. 

Adulterations. — The  great  density  of  this  volatile  oil  prevents  its  adulteration  with 
most  cheaper  ones,  which  would  reduce  its  specific  gravity.  A mixture  of  alcohol  and 
chloroform  has  been  employed  for  the  purpose,  but  is  readily  detected  by  the  low  boiling- 
point  and  the  character  of  the  first  fractional  distillate.  The  most  common  adulterant  is 
oil  of  sassafras,  which  is  colored  dark-red  and  converted  into  a brown-red  resinous  mass 
by  strong  nitric  acid.  The  pure  oil  yields  nearly  colorless  crystals  of  methyl  nitrosalicy- 
late.  When  heated  to  about  80°  C.  (176°  F.)  the  oil  should  not  yield  a colorless  distil- 
late having  the  characteristics  of  chloroform  or  of  alcohol.  On  mixing  5 drops  of  the 
oil  with  5 drops  of  nitric  acid  the  mixture  should  not  acquire  a deep-red  color,  and  should 
not  solidify  to  a dark-red,  resinous  mass  (absence  of  oil  of  sassafras). 

For  other  properties  and  tests  see  the  article  Methyl  Salic ylas. 

Oleum  Betula  Volatile,  U.  S.,  Volatile  oil  of  betula,  Oil  of  sweet  birch,  E.  A 
volatile  oil,  identical  with  synthetic  methyl  salicylate,  obtained  by  distillation  from  the 
bark  of  sweet  birch,  Betula  lenta,  Linne.  Nat.  Ord.  Betulaceae. 

Action  and  Uses. — Mixed  with  putrescible  liquids,  this  oil  is  said  to  preserve 
them  from  putrefaction.  Its  action  in  large  doses  closely  resembles  that  of  other 
aromatic  essential  oils.  A woman  who  had  swallowed  half  an  ounce  of  oil  of  winter- 
green,  with  as  much  cod-liver  oil,  was  presently  seized  with  drowsiness,  delirium,  conges- 
tion of  the  head,  and  throbbing  of  the  arteries.  The  face  was  swollen,  the  eyes  bright, 
the  pupils  contracted ; visual  hallucinations  occurred,  with  a tendency  to  sleep  or  coma, 
and  yet  there  was  “ extreme  irritability  of  the  nervous  system.”  Buzzing  noises  were 
in  the  ears ; there  was  profuse  salivation  ; the  hands  and  feet  were  cold ; and  there  was 
paresis  of  the  left  side.  Impaired  vision  and  slight  hallucinations  remained  during  con- 
valescence. Gastric  symptoms  were  almost  entirely  wanting  (Hamilton,  New  York  Med . 
Jour .,  xxi.  602).  Besides  the  symptoms  above  detailed  there  have  been  noted  in  certain 
cases  profuse  perspiration,  extreme  thirst,  dilated  pupils,  feeble  vision,  ringing  in  the 
ears,  tonic  spasms,  hemiparesis,  painful  or  involuntary  urination.  Death  has  followed 
taking  one  ounce  of  the  oil  in  fifteen  hours,  and  apparently  in  less  time  after  half  an 
ounce  had  been  swallowed  (Pinkham,  Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour .,  Dec.  1887,  p.  548). 
In  one  of  these  cases  after  death  the  blood  was  black  and  fluid,  and  the  stomach, 
duodenum,  and  kidneys  were  congested. 

A mixture  of  oil  of  sassafrass  and  oil  of  gaultheria  used  as  a flavoring  ingredient  of 
“ sarsaparilla  syrup  ” has  produced  severe  gastro-intestinal  disorder  and  drowsiness 
(Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  May,  1885,  p.  471).  A radical  difference  between  the 
actions  of  the  salicylates  and  oil  of  gaultheria  is  that  the  latter  causes  death  in  the 
human  race  by  coma,  while  the  former  produce  it  by  asthenia.  In  the  lower  animals, 
according  to  Wood  and  Hare,  the  oil  induces  convulsions  without  stupor  ( Therap . Gaz., 
x.  73). 

In  1880,  Perier  made  use  of  a mixture  of  essence  of  wintergreen  and  tincture  of  quil- 
laia  in  the  direct  treatment  of  chronic  cystitis,  and  a 1 per  cent,  solution  of  the  former 
in  vaseline  as  an  antiseptic  (Med.  Record , xviii.  262).  In  1881,  Gosselin  and  Bergeron 
determined  that,  like  alcohol  and  salicylic  acid,  this  oil  prevents  putrefactive  fermenta- 
tion, and  that  when  duly  diluted  with  an  alcoholic  solution  it  does  not  irritate  the  tissues, 
but  hastens  the  healing  of  their  wounds  and  other  lesions.  These  surgeons  made  use 
chiefly  of  a solution  consisting  of  100  parts  each  of  alcohol  and  water  with  21  parts  of 
oil  of  gaultheria  (Archives  gen.,  Jan.  1881,  p.  16).  The  analgesic  power  of  this  oil  was 
shown  by  its  efficacy  in  a case  of  neuralgia  (tic  douloureux)  of  the  face  which  for  years 
had  resisted  other  remedies.  The  oil  was  prescribed  in  15-minim  doses  every  three 
hours  (Dercum,  Phila.  Med.  Times,  xvii.  471).  The  large  proportion  of  methyl  salicy- 
late contained  in  the  oil  naturally  led  to  its  employment  in  rheumatism.  It  was  appar- 
ently first  used  for  this  purpose  by  Casamayor  ( Ephemeris , i.  30),  and  next  by  Kinnicutt 
(Med.  Record , xxii.  505).  Twelve  cases  of  acute  [articular]  rheumatism  treated  by  the 
latter  gave  an  average  duration  of  the  pyrexia  of  three  and  a half  days;  of  the  joint- 
pains,  four  and  a half  days  ; of  the  stay  in  hospital,  twenty-four  and  a half  days.  The 
oil  was  given  at  first  in  doses  of  10  minims  every  two  hours  until  eight  doses  had  been 
taken,  and  afterward  the  doses  were  increased  as  well  as  their  frequency.  The  reporter 


OLEUM  G OSS  Y PI  I SEMINIS. 


1125 


believed  that  his  cases  presented  less  than  the  usual  proportion  of  heart-complications, 
but  if  so  the  oil  must  differ  in  its  effects  from  its  active  element,  salicylic  acid.  The 
late  Dr.  Flint  (Philo.  Med.  Times,  xiii.  846),  Gottheil  (Med.  Record,  xxiv.  258),  and 
Seelye  (New  York  Med.  Jour.,  Nov.  1884)  have  reported  analogous  results.  Seelye 
admits  that  the  oil  is  as  apt  as  salicylic  acid  to  induce  depression  and  disorder  of  the 
nervous  system,  especially  in  the  intemperate.  Indeed,  there  seems  to  be  no  clinical 
ground  for  employing  it  as  a substitute  for  salicylic  acid  and  sodium  salicylate.  Its  use, 
or  that  of  the  oil  of  birch,  has  been  advocated  upon  the  ground  of  its  chemical  com- 
position, as  a methyl-salicylate  (Squibb),  although  an  exception  is  made  in  the  case  of 
acute  articular  rheumatism.  In  nine  out  of  twenty  cases  of  gonorrhceal  rheumatism  in 
its  early  stage,  large  doses  of  this  oil  were  found  decidedly  beneficial  (Taylor,  Boston 
Med.  and  Sun/.  Jour.,  Jan.  1887,  p.  558).  This  oil  forms  a useful  addition  to  liniments 
employed  for  muscular  and  articular  rheumatism  and  other  local  pains.  It  is  sometimes 
used  as  a carminative,  but  most  frequently  to  conceal  the  taste  of  nauseous  medicines. 
It  assists  in  flavoring  the  compound  syrup  of  sarsaparilla.  The  dose  may  be  stated  at 
Gm.  0.30-0.60  (n^v-x)  every  three  to  six  hours,  and  gradually  increased  until  some 
ringing  in  the  ears  is  perceived.  It  may  be  given  in  powdered  sugar  or  floated  on  water, 
or  in  gelatin  capsules.  It  does  not  readily  cause  disgust.  The  poisonous  effects  of  this 
oil  may  be  combated  by  stimulant  emetics,  ammonia,  and  hypodermic  injections  of 
alcoholic  liquors  or  ether. 


OLEUM  GOSSYPH  SEMINIS,  U.  S.— Cotton-seed  Oil. 

Oleum  gossyjni. — Cotton  oil , E. ; Huile  de  coton , Huile  de  semences  de  cotonnier , Fr. ; 
Bn  u m wollsa  rnen/jl , G . 

A fixed  oil  expressed  from  the  seed  of  Gossypium  herbaceum,  Urine , and  of  other  species 
of  Gossypium,  and  subsequently  purified. 

Nat.  Ord. — Malvaceae. 

Origin  and  Preparation. — (For  remarks  on  the  cotton-plant  see  page  790).  After 
the  seeds  have  been  deprived  of  the  cotton  they  are  about  8 Mm.  (^  inch)  in  length  and 
4 Mm.  (£,  inchj  in  width,  of  an  irregular  ovoid  shape,  have  a brown,  hard,  somewhat  brittle 
testa  with  a prominent  raphe  along  its  entire  length,  and  contain  a whitish  embryo  with 
large,  folded  cotyledons  and  numerous  blackish  resin-glands  imbedded  in  its  tissue.  For 
obtaining  the  oil  the  testa  is  crushed  in  a suitable  machine  and  removed  by  winnowing; 
the  kernels  (embryo)  are  then  ground,  and,  enclosed  in  bags,  are  subjected  to  hydraulic 
pressure.  A bushel  of  seeds  yields  about  2 gallons  of  oil,  or,  by  weight,  100  parts  of 
seeds  give  shells  arid  cotton-fibre  47,  press-cake  38,  and  oil  15  parts.  The  air-dry  seeds 
contain  oil  21.5,  albuminoids  28,  other  organic  substances  33.5,  ash  9,  and  water  8 per 
cent.  The  average  composition  of  the  press-cakes  is  oil  7.5,  albuminoids  20,  other  organic 
compounds  51,  ash  8.5,  and  moisture  13  per  cent. 

Purification. — The  crude  oil  is  of  a more  or  less  deep-brown  color,  turbid,  thickish, 
and  contains  a large  percentage  of  albuminous  matter.  On  standing,  a portion  of  the 
impurities  subside,  and  the  oil,  now  termed  “clarified,”  becomes  clear  and  of  an  orange 
color.  On  treating  it  with  boiling  water  or  superheated  steam  the  albuminoids  are  coagu- 
lated, arid  a still  lighter  colored  or  refined  oil  is  obtained.  The  final  bleaching  is  effected 
by  agitating  the  oil  well  with  a small  portion  of  alkali  solution  and  heating. 

Properties. — Bleached  cotton-seed  oil  is  perfectly  transparent,  and  has  a pale  straw- 
yellow  color,  a bland  nut-like  taste,  and  a neutral  reaction.  Its  specific  gravity  at  15°  C. 
('•*\)°  F.)  is  .925— .927  (.920— .930  U.  S.  P.)  ; that  of  the  crude  oil,  .930— .932.  It  is  very 
sparingly  soluble  in  alcohol,  but  dissolves  readily  in  ether,  chloroform,  benzin,  etc.  Near 
12°  C.  (56°  F.)  the  oil  begins  to  deposit  palmitin,  but  it  does  not  congeal  until  cooled  to 
9°  or — 5°  C.  ("32°  or  23°  F.).  Exposed  to  the  air,  the  oil  gradually  thickens,  but  it 
does  not  solidify ; by  the  elaidin  test  it  is  converted  into  a yellow  or  brownish  soft  mass. 
Sulphuric  acid,  sp.  grav.  1.75  or  more,  imparts  at  once  a dark,  reddish-brown  color,  and 
gradually  forms  a thick  jelly-like  mass ; weaker  sulphuric  acid  applied  in  the  cold  causes 
a deeper  yellow  or  orange  color.  Nitric  or  hydrochloric  acid  scarcely  affects  the  color, 
but  fuming  nitric  acid  colors  orange-brown.  Warmed  with  concentrated  solution  of  zinc 
chloride,  a brown  color  is  produced.  When  agitated  with  concentrated  solution  of  lead 
sub'icetate,  S.  S.  Bradford  (1882)  noticed  after  some  time  the  production  of  a red  tint, 
and  considers  this  behavior  as  a reliable  test  for  the  detection  of  cotton-seed  oil  in  olive 
oil.  The  oil  is  readily  saponified  by  strong  solutions  of  alkali,  with  the  exception  of  a 
bright-yellow  coloring  matter,  which  may  be  obtained  by  agitating  the  soap  with  benzin. 


1126 


OLEUM  HEDEOMM 


Composition. — Cotton-seed  oil  consists  chiefly  of  olein  and  palmitin,  and  about  1.8 
per  cent,  of  a bright-yellow  liquid  hydrocarbon.  According  to  0.  Bach  (1883),  the  fatty 
acids  of  this  oil  melt  at  38°  C.  (100.4°  F.)  and  congeal  again  at  35°  C.  (95°  F.).  From 
that  portion  of  the  oil  saponified  in  the  bleaching  process  F.  Kuhlmann  (1861)  obtained 
a pigment  by  heating  the  soapy  sediment  with  4 per  cent,  of  sulphuric  acid  for  several 
hours  to  100°  C.  (212°  F.),  washing  with  water,  and  dissolving  in  alcohol.  This  cotton- 
seed  blue,  C17H2404,  is  amorphous,  readily  destroyed  by  oxidizing  agents,  insoluble  in  water, 
diluted  acids,  and  alkalies,  sparingly  soluble  in  carbon  disulphide  and  chloroform,  soluble 
in  77  parts  of  alcohol  and  8.4  parts  of  ether,  and  dissolves  with  a purple  color  in  sulphuric 
acid ; it  is  bleached  on  exposure  to  light  and  air. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — The  oil  is  used  by  the  U.  S.  P.  for  liniments  in  the  place 
of  olive  oil. 

Tests. — “ If  6 Gm.  of  the  oil  be  thoroughly  shaken,  in  a test-tube,  for  about  two 
minutes,  with  a mixture  of  1.5  Gm.  of  nitric  acid  and  0.5  Gm.  of  water,  then  heated  in 
a bath  of  boiling  water  for  not  more  than  fifteen  minutes,  the  oil  will  assume  an  orange 
or  reddish-brown  color,  and,  after  standing  for  twelve  hours  at  the  ordinary  temperature, 
will  form  a semi-solid  mass.  If  5 Cc.  of  the  oil  be  thoroughly  shaken,  in  a test-tube, 
with  5 Cc.  of  an  alcoholic  solution  of  silver  nitrate  (made  by  dissolving  1 Gm.  of  silver 
nitrate  in  100  Cc.  of  deodorized  alcohol  and  adding  0.5  Cc.  of  nitric  acid),  and  the 
mixture  heated  for  about  five  minutes  in  a water-bath,  the  oil  will  assume  a red  or  red- 
dish-brown color.” — U.  S. 

Allied  Oils. — Oleum  fagi. — Beech  oil,  E. ; Huile  de  faines,  Fr. ; Buchelol,  Bucheckerol,  G. — 
The  fruit  of  the  European  beech  tree,  Fagus  sylvatica,  Linn6  (nat.  ord.  Cupuliferae),  is  in  some 
parts  of  Europe  used  for  the  preparation  of  oil,  of  which,  after  the  removal  of  the  integuments, 
about  22  per  cent,  is  obtained.  The  press-cake  is  said  to  have  a deleterious  effect  when  eaten  by 
cattle  or  horses,  but  is  used  for  feeding  hogs  and  poultry.  The  oil  is  yellow  and  of  a mild  odor 
and  taste,  or,  if  expressed  with  heat,  somewhat  acrid,  but  becomes  mild  by  age.  It  does  not 
easily  turn  rancid,  has  the  spec.  grav.  .921  to  .923,  congeals  at  about  — 17.5°  C.  (.5°  F.),  consists 
mainly  of  olein  with  little  palmitin  and  stearin,  and  behaves  to  nitric,  fuming  nitric,  and  sul- 
phuric acids  in  a similar  manner  as  cotton-seed  oil,  but  assumes  a flesh  color  with  zinc  chloride. 
On  saponification  it  yields  a rather  soft  soap. 

Oil  of  Brazil  Nuts.  Bertholletia  excelsa,  Humboldt  et  Bo  upland  ( nat.  ord.  Lecythidacese),  is 
a large  tree  indigenous  to  Brazil,  where  it  is  known  as  castanheiro  de  Para.  The  globular  fruit 
is  about  10  inches  (25  Cm.)  in  diameter,  and  contains  sixteen  to  twenty  seeds,  called  Brazil  nuts 
or  Para  nuts — Chataigne  du  Bresil,  Fr.;  Paranuss,  G.  These  are  1J  to  2 inches  (3-5  Cm.)  long, 
three-edged,  convex  upon  the  back,  have  a rough,  brown-gray,  hard  testa,  and  contain  a white 
kernel  of  an  almond-like  taste  and  yielding  about  60  per  cent,  of  fixed  oil.  This  is  pale-yellow, 
bland,  easily  turns  rancid,  congeals  at  —1°  C.  (30°  F.),  becomes  red  and  red-brown  by  sulphuric 
acid  and  rose-colored  by  zinc  chloride,  and  consists  of  olein  with  palmitin  and  stearin.  A simi- 
lar oil  is  yielded  by  the  Sapucaya  nuts , the  seeds  of  Lecythis  Zabucajo,  Aublet,  of  Brazil. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  oil  has  been  substituted  for  olive  oil  in  several  officinal 
preparations,  and  may  be  employed  in  all  the  surgical  manipulations  in  which  the  latter 
was  originally  used.  It  is  extensively  used  as  food  and  is  esteemed  digestible  and  whole- 
some. 


OLEUM  HEDEOMiE,  U.  S. — Oil  op  Hedeoma. 

Oil  of  pennyroyal,  E. ; Essence  de  pouliot  americain , Fr. ; Polevoi,  G. 

The  volatile  oil  distilled  from  the  fresh  herb  of  Hedeoma  pulegioides,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Labiatae. 

Preparation. — The  fresh  herb  (p.  806)  is  distilled  with  water  or  by  means  of  steam. 

Properties. — The  oil  is  a limpid,  colorless,  or  yellowish  volatile  liquid  of  a peculiar 
pungent,  mint-like  odor  and  taste,  and  has  a specific  gravity  of  0.93  to  0.94  at  15°  C. 
(59°  F.).  It  has  a neutral  or  slightly  acid  reaction,  is  soluble  in  an  equal  volume  of 
alcohol  and  also  in  carbon  disulphide  or  glacial  acetic  acid.  It  dissolves  iodine  with  a 
brisk  explosive  reaction,  yielding  a viscous  liquid.  A mixture  of  the  oil  with  chloral 
hydrate  and  sulphuric  acid  acquires  a brownish-green  color. 

Fresh  European  pennyroyal  (Pouliot,  Fr. ; Polei,  G.),  Mentha  Pulegium,  Linne , s. 
Pulegium  vulgare,  Miller  (Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 201),  yields  about  1 per 
cent,  of  a volatile  oil  having  a similar  odor,  according  to  Kane  a density  of  .925  to  .927, 
a boiling-point  near  185°  C.  (365°  F.),  and  the  composition  C10H16O.  The  volatile  oil  of 
Pulegium  micranthum,  Claus , of  Southern  Russia,  examined  by  Buttlerow  (1854),  has 
the  same  composition,  but  a greater  density  and  higher  boiling-point. 


OLEUM  JUNIPER!.— OLEUM  LAVANDULAE  FLO  RUM. 


1127 


Composition. — Oil  of  hedeoma  contains  oxygen,  but  its  exact  composition  has  not 
been  ascertained. 

Action  and  Uses. — It  has  essentially  the  same  action  and  virtues  as  the  associated 
volatile  oils ; that  is  to  say,  it  is  an  aromatic  stimulant,  carminative,  and  emmenagogue 
under  fit  conditions,  and  is  added  to  embrocations  to  increase  their  anodyne  and  rube- 
facient action.  The  dose  is  from  Gm.  0.10—0.60  (2  to  10  drops). 

OLEUM  JUNIPERI,  U.  8.,  Br.,  B.  G.—Oil  of  Juniper. 

Oleum  fructus  (pel  baccse)  juniperi. — Oil  of  juniper -berries,  E. ; Essence  de  genievre , 
Fr. ; Wachholderbeerol , G. 

The  volatile  oil  distilled  from  the  fruit  of  Juniperus  communis,  Linne  (see  p.  906). 

Nat.  Ord. — Coniferae. 

Preparation. — Bipe  or  nearly  ripe  juniper-berries  are  well  bruised,  mixed  with 
table-salt  and  water,  and  distilled  either  over  the  naked  fire  or  by  the  aid  of  steam.  The 
yield  is  usually  1 to  | per  cent.,  and  sometimes  exceeds  1 per  cent. 

Properties. — Oil  of  juniper-berries  is  colorless  or  pale  greenish-yellow,  limpid,  but 
on  exposure  rapidly  thickens  and  turns  yellow,  and  ultimately  reddish-brown,  at  the  same 
time  acquiring  an  acid  reaction ; the  fresh-distilled  oil  from  old  juniper-berries  is  thickish 
and  light-yellow.  Its  specific  gravity  is  about  0.850  to  0.890  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  ; it 
begins  to  boil  at  155°  C.  (311°  F.),  or  if  obtained  from  ripe  berries  at  205°  C.  (401°  F.) 
(Blanchet),  has  the  peculiar  odor  of  the  berries,  and  a warm,  aromatic,  somewhat  sweet- 
ish and  terebinthinate  taste,  shows  a neutral  reaction  to  test-paper,  turns  polarized  light 
slightly  to  the  left,  and  is  soluble  in  four  times  its  volume  of  alcohol,  forming  a more  or  less 
turbid  solution ; but  it  yields  clear  mixtures  with  carbon  disulphide  or  glacial  acetic  acid 
in  all  proportions.  Iodine  dissolves  slowly  in  the  limpid  oil,  but  acts  more  energetically 
upon  the  thickened  oil,  sometimes  producing  fulmination  ; sulphuric  acid  colors  it  brown 
and  red.  Old  oil  of  juniper  contains  formic  acid,  from  which  it  may  be  freed  by  sodium 
carbonate  and  rectification. 

Composition. — The  oil  is  a mixture  of  hydrocarbons  of  the  general  formula  C10H](i, 
which  differ  in  their  boiling-point  (see  above),  a portion  boiling  at  282°  C.  (539.6°  F.) 
(Souberain  and  Capitaine).  It  yields  with  hydrochloric  acid  gas  a liquid  compound. 

Adulteration. — The  similarity  of  oil  of  juniper  and  oil  of  turpentine  in  specific 
gravity,  boiling-point,  and  behavior  to  solvents  and  reagents  renders  the  detection  of  an 
adulteration  with  the  latter  rather  difficult,  except  by  the  formation  of  a solid  compound 
with  hydrochloric  acid  gas,  and  by  its  different  odor,  particularly  after  exposure.  “ 1 
drop  of  the  oil,  triturated  with  sugar  and  agitated  with  500  Gm.  of  water,  should  not 
impart  a sharp  taste  to  the  latter.” — P.  G. 

The  oil  of  juniper -wood,  obtained  by  distillation  with  water,  has  a different,  more  tere- 
binthinate odor,  and  is  at  first  limpid  and  colorless,  but  on  exposure  becomes  thick, 
yellow,  and  finally  dark-brown. 

Action  and  Uses. — Oil  of  juniper  is  stomachic,  carminative,  and  diuretic.  In  large 
doses  it  occasions  in  animals  the  same  effects  upon  the  nervous  and  vascular  systems  as 
other  essential  oils,  with  the  addition  of  diuresis.  The  last-mentioned  operation  is  evident 
in  man  as  an  effect  of  medicinal  doses.  It  reddens,  and  may  even  blister,  the  skin.  It  is 
an  efficient  ingredient  of  diuretic  infusions  and  mixtures,  is  much  used  to  promote  urina- 
tion in  the  form  of  Holland  gin,  and  when  inhaled  from  an  atomized  solution  its  diuretic 
virtues  are  sometimes  promptly  and  distinctly  manifested.  The  dose  is  Gm.  0.30-1  (gtt. 
v-xv). 

OLEUM  LAVANDULAE  FLORUM,  IT.  S.,  Br.,  B.  G.—Oiu  of  Laven- 
der-flowers. 

Essence  de  lavande,  Fr. ; Lavandelol,  G. 

The  volatile  oil  distilled  from  the  fresh  flowers  of  Lavandula  officinalis  De  Candolle 
(see  p.  932). 

Nat.  Ord. — Labiatae. 

Preparation. — Oil  of  lavender  is  distilled  in  Great  Britain  and  France  from  the 
flowers  alone  or  from  the  flowering-tops  or  the  entire  plant,  steam  heat  being  usually 
resorted  to.  The  flowers  yield  about  \ per  cent,  of  the  oil ; the  quantity,  however,  varies, 
and  seems  to  increase  in  plants  grown  in  southern  localities.  Stem  and  leaves  yield  a 
small  portion  of  less  fragrant  oil. 


1128 


OLEUM  LI  MON  IS. 


Properties. — The  oil  is  very  limpid,  colorless,  yellowish  or  greenish-yellow,  and  neu- 
tral, and  acquires  by  age  an  acid  reaction  and  viscid  consistence.  Its  specific  gravity  is 
0.885  to  0.897  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  ; it  commences  to  boil  at  about  185°  C.  (365°  F.).  " It 
has  a levogyre  action,  reacts  briskly  and  with  some  detonation  on  the  addition  of  iodine, 
and  acquires  a brown  color  when  agitated  with  corrosive  sublimate.  Exposed  to  a low 
temperature,  it  sometimes  separates  stearopten.  Its  fragrance  varies  with  the  part  of  the 
plant  used  for  distillation  ; its  taste  is  bitterish  and  pungent.  The  better  quality  is  known 
in  commerce  as  oil  of  garden  lavender. 

Composition. — The  most  volatile  portion  is  a hydrocarbon  of  the  formula  C]0Hi6. 
The  stearopten  is  stated  by  Dumas  to  be  identical  with  camphor.  According  to  Lalle- 
mand  (1859),  the  terpene  boils  at  175°  C.,  and  a second  one  between  200°  and  210°  C. 
(392°  and  410°  F.)  ; the  oxygenated  fraction  of  the  oil  contains  acetic,  and  probably 
also  valerianic,  acid  in  combination  as  ethers.  Bruylants  (1879)  found  the  terpene  to 
boil  at  162°  C.  (323.6°  F.),  and  ascertained  the  presence  of  formic  and  acetic  acids,  of 
10  per  cent,  of  resin,  and  of  65  per  cent,  of  borneol  and  camphor.  Shenstone  (1882) 
ascertained  that  the  boiling-point  of  the  terpene  is  raised  by  continued  heating,  and  sug- 
gests that  the  oxygenated  compound  is  not  camphor,  but  easily  converted  into  it  by 
oxidizing  agents. 

Adulteration. — The  admixture  of  oil  of  turpentine  is  detected  by  the  decreased 
solubility  in  alcohol.  Oil  of  spike  lavender  has  a deeper  green-yellow  color  and  a more 
terebinthinate,  camphoraceous  odor,  but  agrees  with  oil  of  lavender  in  solubility  ; accord- 
ing to  Lallemand,  it  contains  a dextrogyre  hydrocarbon  boiling  at  175°  C.  (347°  F.),  and 
a stearopten  apparently  identical  with  camphor;  but  Bruylants  (1879)  regards  it  as  dif- 
fering from  oil  of  lavender,  mainly  in  containing  a larger  proportion  of  terpene. 

Tests. — The  oil  is  soluble  in  all  proportions  of  alcohol  (distinction  from  oil  of  turpen- 
tine), and  in  3 times  its  volume  of  a mixture  of  3 volumes  of  alcohol  and  1 volume  of 
water  (distinction  from,  and  absence  of,  oil  of  turpentine)  ; it  is  also  soluble  in  glacial 
acetic  acid  ; but  with  an  equal  volume  of  carbon  disulphide  it  forms  a turbid  mixture. 
When  heated  on  a water-bath,  in  a flask  provided  with  a well-cooled  condenser,  the  oil 
should  yield  no  distillate  having  the  character  of  alcohol. — U.  S. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  preparation  is  very  seldom  prescribed  alone,  but  it  may 
be  used  to  calm  nervous  headache  by  rubbing  a few  drops  of  it  upon  the  temples  or  by 
its  internal  use  in  the  dose  of  Grin.  0.30  (gtt.  iv-v).  Its  carminative  and  general  stimu- 
lant operation  is  usually  obtained  through  the  simple  and  compound  spirit  of  lavender. 

Oil  of  lavender-flowers  is  more  fragrant  than  the  oil  distilled  from  the  herb  and  flowers, 
but  its  action,  uses,  and  dose  are  about  the  same. 

OLEUM  LIMONIS,  U.  8.,  Br. -Oil  of  Lemon. 

Oleum  citri,  P.  Gr.  ; Oleum  de  cedro , Oleum  limonum. — Essence  de  citron , Essence  de 
limon , Fr.  ; Oitronenol , Limonenol , Gr. 

The  volatile  oil  extracted  by  expression  from  the  fresh  peel  of  Citrus  Limonum,  Risso. 

Nat.  Ord. — Rutacese. 

Preparation. — The  fresh  rind  of  nearly  ripe  lemons  is  pressed  between  the  fingers 
in  such  a manner  that  the  oil-cells  are  ruptured,  the  exuding  oil  being  received  upon  a 
sponge,  which  when  saturated  is  expressed  ; or  the  oil-cells  are  ruptured  by  a process  of 
superficial  grating,  the  oil  being  drained  off.  An  oil  of  inferior  fragrance  is  obtained  by 
grating  the  outer  rind  complete!}7  off  and  distilling  the  magma  with  water.  Oil  of  lemon 
is  manufactured  in  Southern  France  and  Italy. 

Properties. — Oil  of  lemon  has  a pale-yellow  color,  is  limpid,  neutral,  of  a very 
agreeable  fragrance  and  mild,  aromatic,  bitterish  taste.  As  received  in  commerce,  it  is 
usually  turbid,  but  becomes  clear  on  standing ; by  age  it  acquires  a thicker  consistence 
and  a pungent  terebinthinate  odor  and  taste,  which  change  is  prevented  or  retarded  by 
the  addition  of  5 per  cent,  of  alcohol  and  decantation  of  the  clear  oil  from  the  sediment ; 
this  treatment  was  recommended  by  the  last  Pharmacopoeia  for  the  preservation  of  the 
oil.  Its  specific  gravity  is  about  0.857  to  0.863  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  ; it  commences  to  boil 
at  about  160°  C.  (320°  F.),  rotates  polarized  light  to  the  right,  produces  a brisk  fulmina- 
tion  with  iodine,  yields  with  Frohde’s  reagent  a deep  orange-brown  color  (Dragendorff, 
1876),  and  bv  hydrochloric  acid  gas  is  converted  into  a liquid  and  a solid  compound, 
which,  distilled  over  lime,  yield  again  colorless  oils,  the  former  citrylene , the  latter  citrene 
(or  citronyl ),  having  a lemon-like  odor.  Oil  of  lemon  yields  with  7 volumes  (3  volumes, 
U.  S.)  of  alcohol  a solution,  but  is  soluble  in  all  proportions  in  carbon  disulphide,  abso- 


OLEUM  LINT. 


1129 


lute  alcohol,  or  glacial  acetic  acid.  When  kept  for  some  time  it  should  not  acquire  a 
terebinthinate  odor  or  taste  (absence  of  turpentine  or  of  other  oils  containing  pinene). 

Composition. — Aside  from  a small  quantity  of  an  oxygenated  compound,  oil  of 
lemon  consists  of  several  hydrocarbons  having  the  general  formula  C]0H16.  W.  A.  Tilden 
(1879)  states  that  at  least  76  per  cent,  of  the  oil  consists  of  citrene , C10H16,  boiling  at  176° 
C.  (348. 8°F.),  having  an  odor  like  hesperidene  ; 6 per  cent,  consists  of  cymene,  C10HU, 
and  the  remaining  portion  contains  several  hydrocarbons,  an  alcohol,  C10H18O,  boiling 
above  200°  C.  and  its  acetic  ether. 

Adulterations  with  the  volatile  oils  of  other  fruits  of  the  genus  Citrus  are  very 
difficult  to  detect ; odor  and  taste  must  be  chiefly  relied  upon.  “ 1 drop  of  the  oil  triturated 
with  sugar  and  agitated  with  500  Om.  of  water,  should  impart  to  the  latter  the  pure  odor 
of  lemon.” — P.  G. 

Uses. — Oil  of  lemons  is  used  almost  exclusively  as  a flavoring  agent  and  as  a per- 
fume. 


OLEUM  UNI,  U.  S.,  Br JP.  G.— Flaxseed  Oil. 

Linseed  oil , E. ; Huile  de  lin , Fr. ; Leinol , Leinsamenol , G. 

The  fixed  oil,  expressed  without  heat,  from  the  seed  of  Linum  usitatissimum,  Linn6. 

Nat.  Ord. — Linacese. 

Preparation. — This  oil  is  made  on  the  large  scale  by  thoroughly  drying  the  seed 
with  the  aid  of  heat,  crushing  and  forcibly  expressing  it.  The  yield  by  cold  pressure  is 
16  to  20  per  cent.,  by  hot  pressure  25  to  28  per  cent.  It  is  largely  manufactured  in  this 
country. 

Properties. — Expressed  in  the  cold,  linseed  oil  is  limpid,  neutral  to  test-paper,  yel- 
lowish or  yellow,  and  of  a peculiar  bland  and  unpleasant  odor  and  taste.  For  use  in  the 
arts  linseed  oil  is  obtained  by  hot  pressure,  is  somewhat  thicker,  brownish,  has  more  odor, 
and  a somewhat  acrid  taste.  Its  specific  gravity  is  0.930  to  0.940  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.). 
It  imparts  a yellow  color  to  alcohol  on  being  agitated  with  it,  dissolves  in  40  parts  of 
cold  and  5 parts  of  boiling  alcohol,  in  10  parts  of  absolute  alcohol,  ether,  and  in  all  pro- 
portions of  oil  of  turpentine,  chloroform,  ether,  benzin  and  carbon  disulphide.  It  does 
not  congeal  above  — 20°  C.  ( — 4°  F.)  to  a yellowish  mass.  It  yields  with  alkalies  a 
very  soft  soap.  In  contact  with  fuming  nitric  acid  it  ignites,  but  when  agitated  with 
nitric  acid  of  specific  gravity  1.33  it  turns  green,  and  afterward  brown  ; it  does  not 
solidify  in  contact  with  nitrous  acid.  Exposed  to  the  air,  it  gradually  thickens,  becomes 
rancid,  and  finally  solidifies ; if  spread  in  a thin  layer  on  glass  and  exposed  for  some 
time,  it  should  not  remain  soft  (absence  of  non-drying  oils) ; linseed  oil  thickened  by 
exposure  is  completely  soluble  in  alcohol.  Crude  oil  which  is  mixed  with  mucilaginous 
matters  quickly  turns  rancid  and  acquires  an  acid  reaction  ; to  obviate  this  change,  the 
seed  before  expression  is  completely  deprived  of  water.  Linseed  oil  begins  to  boil  at 
about  130°  C.  (266°  F.),  the  boiling-point  gradually  rising,  and  when  it  has  lost  about 
5 or  8 per  cent,  of  its  weight  it  constitutes  boiled  linseed  oil,  which  is  darker  in  color, 
thicker,  and  dries  more  rapidly  than  the  unboiled  oil. 

Composition.— According  to  Mulder  (1865),  linseed  oil  is  a mixture  of  about  80 
per  cent,  of  linolein  with  palmitin,  myristin,  and  some  olein,  all  being  glycerides.  Lino- 
leic  acid  has  the  formula  C18H3202  (Reformatzky,  1890)  ; by  treatment  with  strong  HI, 
and  subsequently  with  Zn  and  HC1,  stearic  acid  C18H3ti02  is  obtained,  and  is  a colorless 
acid  liquid  readily  soluble  in  alcohol  and  ether,  and  on  exposure  to  air  is  converted  into 
the  hydrate  of  oxylinoleic  acid , which  more  rapidly  if  frequently  moistened  with  ether, 
is  transformed  into  linoxyn.  C^H^On-  This  latter  compound  is  insoluble  in  ether,  and  is 
produced  in  a few  days  on  the  exposure  of  boiled  linseed  oil.  The  acrid  taste  of  linseed 
oil  seems  to  be  due  to  the  presence  of  a little  resin  ; according  to  others,  to  traces  of 
volatile  fatty  acids. 

Tests. — “ It  should  not  more  than  slightly  redden  blue  litmus-paper,  previously 
moistened  with  alcohol  (limit  of  free  acid).  If  2 Cc.  of  the  oil  be  shaken  with  1 Cc.  of 
fuming  nitric  acid  and  1 Cc.  of  water,  it  should  neither  completely  nor  partially  solidify, 
even  after  standing  for  one  or  two  days  (absence  of  non-drying  oils).  If  10  Cc.  of  the 
oil  contained  in  a small  flask,  be  mixed  with  a solution  of  3 Gm.  of  potassium  hydroxide 
in  5 Cc.  of  water,  then  5 Cc.  of  alcohol  added,  and  the  mixture  heated  for  about  five 
minutes  on  a water-bath,  with  occasional  agitation,  a dark-colored  but  clear  and  complete 
solution  should  result.  If  this  liquid  be  diluted  with  water  to  the  measure  of  50  Cc., 
then  cooled  and  shaken  with  50  Cc.  of  ether,  the  clear,  ethereal  layer,  after  having  sepa- 


1130 


OLEUM  MENTHA?  PIPERITJE. 


rated,  should  not  show  a bluish  fluorescence,  and,  when  carefully  removed,  and  allowed 
to  evaporate  spontaneously,  should  leave  not  more  than  a slight,  and  not  oily  residue 
(absence  of  paraffin  oils).” — U S. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparations. — Oleum  lini  sulfuratum,  s.  Balsamum  sul- 
phuris.  6 parts  of  linseed  oil  are  intimately  mixed  in  an  iron  vessel  with  1 part  of  sub- 
limed sulphur,  and  the  mixture  boiled  over  a slow  fire  in  an  iron  vessel,  with  constant 
stirring,  until  the  whole  has  united  into  a homogeneous  mass.  It  has  about  the  consist- 
ence of  a thick  syrup,  and  is  of  a dark  red-brown  color.  Diluted  with  three  times  its 
weight  of  oil  of  turpentine,  it  constitutes  Oleum  terebinthin^e  sulfuratum,  s.  Bal- 
samum sulphuris  terebintliinatum. 

Other  Drying  Oils. — The  drying  oils  of  walnut-,  hemp-,  sunflower-,  poppy-,  and  pumpkin-seeds 
are  described  elsewhere  in  connection  with  the  drugs. 

Grape-seed  Oil. — Huile  de  raisin,  Fr.;  Traubenkerndl,  G. — The  seeds  of  the  different  varieties 
of  Vitis  vinifera,  Linne  (nat.  ord.  Vitaceas),  yield  from  10  to  20  per  cent,  of  fixed  oil,  which,  is 
light-yellow  or  brownish,  inodorous,  faintly  bitter,  and  congeals  near  — 16°  C.  (3.2°  F.).  It  dries 
very  slowly,  and  consists,  besides  palmitin  and  stearin,  chiefly  of  the  glyceride  of  erucic  acid , 
C22H4202  •,  this  acid  melts  at  34°  C.  (93.2°  F.),  and  yields  acetic  and  arachic  acids  on  being  fused 
with  potassa. 

Madia  Oil  is  obtained  from  Madia  sativa,  Molina  (nat.  ord.  Compositae,  Tubuliflorae),  an  an 
nual  herb,  native  of  Chili  and  cultivated  in  Europe,  Africa,  and  Asia.  The  brownish-gray,  quad- 
rangular, four-ribbed  akenes,  which  are  destitute  of  pappus,  yield  about  40  per  cent,  of  fixed  oil. 
This  is  yellow,  bland,  of  a peculiar  odor,  and  has  the  spec.  grav.  .930,  and  congeals  near  —20° 
C.  ( — 4°  F.).  On  exposure  to  air  it  becomes  rancid  and  slowly  acquires  a soft-solid  consistence. 
By  nitric  acid  it  is  colored  brown-red,  by  sulphuric  acid  greenish  and  brown.  Besides  palmitin 
and  stearin,  it  contains  an  olein,  which  seems  to  differ  from  that  of  other  oils. 

Niger-seed  Oil.  Guizotia  oleifera,  De  Candolle , s.  Yerbesina  sativa,  Roxburgh  (nat.  ord.  Com- 
positae, Tubuliflorae),  is  indigenous  to  and  cultivated  in  India  and  Eastern  Africa.  The  subcylin- 
drical,  black,  and  glossy  akenes  yield  about  40  per  cent,  of  a thin  yellow  oil  having  a nutty  flavor 
and  congealing  below  —10°  C.  (14°  F.).  It  is  colored  orange-yellow  by  nitric  acid,  and  gray- 
green  and  brown  by  sulphuric  acid,  dries  to  a soft  varnish,  and  consists  of  myristin,  palmitin,  and 
apparently  two  oleins,  one  of  which  is  closely  related  to  linolein. 

Candle-nut  Oil,  Ivekune  Oil,  Bankul  Oil.  The  candle-nut-tree,  Aleurites  triloba,  Forster , s. 
A.  moluccana,  Willdenow,  is  extensively  cultivated  in  the  islands  of  the  Pacific  and  Indian  Oceans 
and  in  India.  The  whitish  kernels  have  a bland  nutty  flavor  and  yield  about  60  per  cent,  of 
nearly  colorless  oil,  which  dries  rapidly  and  is  colored  dark  orange-red  by  nitric  acid  and  yellow 
to  brown  by  sulphuric  acid.  It  consists  of  an  olein  resembling  linolein,  besides  myristin,  pal- 
mitin, and  stearin. 

Action  and  Uses. — Flaxseed  oil  is  a laxative  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  32-64  (fgi— ij). 
It  has  been  recommended  to  be  given  in  this  manner  as  a remedy  for  haemorrhoids.  Only 
cold-pressed  oil  should  be  used  internally.  Its  most  important  application  is  in  the  treat- 
ment of  burns  when  mixed  with  an  equal  quantity  of  lime-water.  The  same  mixture  is 
also  applied  with  advantage  in  impetigo. 

OLEUM  MENTHiE  PIPERITJE,  77.  S.,  Br.,  JP.  72.— Oil  of  Pepper- 

mint. 

Essence  de  menthe  poivree,  Fr.  Cod. ; Pfefferminzol , G.  ; Esencia  de  menta  piperita , Sp. 

The  volatile  oil  distilled  from  Mentha  piperita,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Labiatae. 

Preparation. — The  fresh  herb  is  distilled  with  water,  or  preferably  with  steam.  For 
medicinal  purposes  the  oil  should  be  rectified  by  steam  distillation.  It  is  largely  produced 
in  Michigan,  New  York,  and  other  States  of  the  Union,  and  to  some  extent  is  exported 
to  Europe,  while,  on  the  other  hand,  some  European  rectified  oil  of  peppermint  is 
imported  into  the  United  States.  In  Great  Britain  the  yield  is  stated  to  be  from  8 to  12 
pounds  of  oil  per  acre  ( Pharmacographia ) ; in  the  United  States  it  is  said  to  be  some- 
times as  high  as  20  pounds  (Stearns,  1 858). 

Properties. — Oil  of  peppermint  is  a colorless,  or  more  frequently  yellowish  or 
greenish-yellow,  liquid,  which  on  exposure  becomes  brownish  and  viscid.  Its  specific 
gravity  is  from  0.90  to  0.920  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.).  It  commences  to  boil  near  190°  C. 
(374°  F.),  and  at  a low  temperature  sometimes  deposits  crystals  of  menthol.  It  has  a 
peculiar  pungent  odor  and  a warm,  aromatic,  somewhat  camphoraceous,  and  when  old 
also  bitterish,  taste,  followed  by  a sensation  of  cold,  which  is  most  noticed  on  drawing 
air  into  the  mouth.  It  dissolves  clear  in  1 part  of  alcohol,  the  solution  usually  becoming 
opalescent  with  more  alcohol,  and  depositing  slowly  a minute  white  precipitate.  It  is 
neutral  to  test-paper  when  fresh,  and  turns  polarized  light  to  the  left.  In  its  action 


OLEUM  MENTHJE  PIPERITA. 


1131 


toward  reagents  it  shows  very  considerable  differences.  Some  oils  of  peppermint  yield 
with  sodium  bisulphite  a solid  compound  which  has  not  been  further  examined  (Fliick- 
iger).  John  (1873)  observed  that  chloral  hydrate  produces  with  this  oil  a rose-  and 
cherry -red  color,  and  Dragendorff  (1875)  proved  that  this  reaction  is  occasioned  by  some 
unknown  constituent  of  impure  chloral  hydrate,  and  becomes  less  distinct  the  purer  the 
reagent  is.  If  a little  sugar  be  added  to  an  alcoholic  solution  of  the  oil,  then  a few  drops 
of  hydrochloric  acid,  and  the  mixture  gently  heated,  a deep  blue  color  is  produced. 
Strong  nitric  acid  colors  it  purplish  to  brown,  but  when  from  50  to  70  drops  of  the  oil 
are  mixed  with  1 drop  of  nitric  acid  specific  gravity  1.2,  the  mixture  is  gradually  changed 
from  yellowish  to  brownish,  and  finally  to  a permanent  violet,  blue,  or  greenish  blue  when 
viewed  in  transmitted  light,  while  in  reflected  light  the  mixture  is  of  a red-copper  color 
and  opaque ; the  reaction,  which  is  not  prevented  by  oil  of  turpentine,  may  be  hastened 
by  warming  the  mixture  or  by  decreasing  the  oil  (Fliickiger,  1871).  The  Pharmacopoeia 
has  applied  this  test  as  follows  : 5 Cc.  of  the  oil  are  mixed  with  1 Cc.  of  glacial  acetic 
acid,  and  thus  1 drop  of  nitric  acid  is  added.  The  color  produced  is  the  same  as  just 
stated.  Schack  (1878-81)  observed  that  an  alcoholic  solution  of  the  oil  and  salicylic 
acid  gradually  becomes  copper-green,  and  that  the  melted  acid  becomes  at  once  blue-green 
on  the  addition  of  the  oil ; phenol  and  most  acids,  but  not  carbonic  acid,  have  a similar 
effect,  and  a mixture  of  1 Cc.  of  glacial  acetic  acid  and  5 drops  of  oil  of  peppermint, 
slightly  warmed,  shows  a blue  color  in  transmitted  light  and  a blood-red  in  reflected 
light;  but  menthol  or  oil  of  crisped  mint  does  not  yield  the  reaction.  Picric  acid  dis- 
solves in  oil  of  peppermint  with  a yellow  color,  gradually,  or  when  slightly  heated  more 
rapidly,  changing  to  green  ; in  presence  of  water  and  air  a reddish-yellow  color  is  afterward 
produced  (Frebault,  1874).  Iodine  does  not  act  energetically  with  the  oil,  but  dissolves 
and  renders  it  thicker.  With  ethereal  or  chloroformic  solution  of  bromine  a rose-red  or 
violet  color  is  produced,  changing  gradually  to  a dirty  pink  or  purplish  color.  In  con- 
sequence of  insufficient  weeding  of  the  mint-fields,  American  oil  of  peppermint  is  not 
unfrequently  mixed  with  oil  of  erigeron,  acquires  a rank  “ weedy  ” smell,  and  seems  to 
be  disposed  to  resinify  more  rapidly. 

Composition. — Oil  of  peppermint  owes  its  peculiar  odor  to  menthol  (mint  camphor, 
mint  stearopten),  C10H20O,  which  is  chiefly  contained  in  the  last  portions  obtained  on  sub- 
jecting the  oil  to  fractional  distillation.  It  forms  colorless  prisms  which  fuse  at  42°  C. 
(76°  F.),  and  boil  at  212°  C.  (414°  F.).  Distilled  with  phosphoric  anhydride,  it  yields 
menihene , C10H18,  which  is  a colorless  liquid  of  an  agreeable  odor.  According  to  Moriga 
(1881),  oil  of  peppermint  contains  probably  also  an  oil  of  the  formula  C10H18O;  which 
may  be  prepared  from  menthol  by  oxidation  with  potassium  dichromate ; but  by  treat- 
ment with  fuming  nitric  acid  menthol  yields  at  first  an  explosive  oil,  afterward  crystals 
of  an  acid,  (C5H804)2H20,  melting  at  97°  C.  (206.6°  F.) ; this  compound  is  not  identical 
with  pyrotartaric  acid,  with  which  it  agrees  in  composition.  A compound  isomeric  with 
borneol  had  been  found  by  Beckett  and  Wright  (1875)  in  the  liquid  portion  of  Japanese 
peppermint  oil,  but,  according  to  Fliickiger  and  Power  (1880),  is  not  present  in  the  oil 
distilled  at  Mitcham,  which  contains,  besides  menthol,  several  hydrocarbons  of  the  for- 
mulas C10H16  and  C15H24,  and  having  a terebinthinate  somewhat  lemon-like  odor. 

Adulterations  and  Tests. — Besides  oil  of  erigeron,  alcohol,  castor  oil,  and  oil  of 
turpentine  have  been  employed  for  the  purpose ; the  presence  of  the  last  two  bodies 
renders  the  oil  not  readily  soluble  in  80  per  cent,  alcohol,  and  the  last  one  mentioned 
causes  it  to  be  acted  on  with  more  violence  by  iodine.  “ If  to  5 Cc.  of  nitric  acid  1 drop 
of  the  oil  be  added,  the  mixture  gently  agitated,  and  allowed  to  stand  for  about  three  hours, 
it  should  have  a yellowish,  but  not  a bright  red  color  (absence  of  the  oils  of  camphor 
and  of  sassafras).  If  a portion  of  the  oil,  contained  in  a test-tube,  be  placed  in  a freezing 
mixture  of  snow  (or  pounded  ice)  and  salt  for  fifteen  minutes,  it  should  become  cloudy 
and  thick,  and,  after  the  addition  of  a few  crystals  of  menthol,  being  still  exposed  to  cold, 
it  should  soon  form  a crystalline  mass  (distinction  from  deinentholized  oil).  When  heated 
on  a water-bath,  in  a flask  provided  with  a well-cooled  condenser,  the  oil  should  not  yield 
a distillate  having  the  characters  of  alcohol. — U.  S. 

Menthol  is  sometimes  met  with  in  commerce  as  Japanese  or  Chinese  oil  of  peppermint , 
and  is  obtained  from  a plant  which,  according  to  Holmes,  is  nearly  related  to  Mentha 
canadensis,  Linne.  On  one  occasion  it  was  largely  adulterated  with  magnesium  sulphate. 

Action  and  Uses. — Elsewhere  (see  Mentha  Pipeuita)  are  described  the  carmi- 
native and  anodyne  virtues  of  peppermint,  which  belong  to  all  its  preparations,  and 
especially  to  its  essence  ( Spiritus  menthse  pipnitae ),  which  is  merely  an  alcoholic  solution 
of  the  oil.  The  latter  appears  to  possess  in  a remarkable  degree  the  analgesic  properties 


1132 


OLEUM  MENTH2E  VIRIDIS.— OLEUM  MORRHUJE. 


of  its  class.  The  sensation  of  cold  produced  by  its  application  to  the  skin  or  mucous 
membrane  is  subjective  only.  Braddon  highly  praised  this  oil  as  a surgical  antiseptic 
( Therap . Ga,z.,  xii.  358).  Anciently  peppermint  was  employed  by  the  Romans  as  an 
application  to  the  temples  for  the  relief  of  headache,  and  within  a few  years  it  became 
known  that  the  oil  (stearopten)  was  used  by  the  Chinese  for  a similar  purpose.  In  imita- 
tion of  their  practice  it  has  been  a good  deal  employed  as  a local  anodyne  in  neuralgia 
and  neuralgic  headache , applied  over  the  supraorbital,  the  temporal,  or  other  nerves  in 
which  the  pain  is  most  severe.  A small  wad  of  compressed  cotton  saturated  with  the  oil 
should  be  laid  upon  the  painful  spot,  covered  with  a piece  of  sheet  caoutchoue,  and  bound 
firmly  in  its  place.  Merely  painting  the  skin  with  the  oil  by  means  of  a brush  or  a tuft 
of  cotton  will  sometimes  answer  the  purpose.  In  local  rheumatic  affections  the  latter 
method  is  often  very  efficient.  It  has  also  been  used  successfully  as  a topical  anodyne  in 
superficial  burns  and  scalds  and  in  zona.  In  several  forms  of  pruritus  caused  by  ascarides, 
in  urethral  caruncle , and  various  affections  of  the  uterus  and  vagina  it  forms  an  efficient 
addition  to  solutions  of  soda,  borax,  etc.  According  to  Duncan,  it  is,  like  itshomologue 
thymol , antiseptic  ( Practitioner , xxiii.  47).  Lober  recommends  the  addition  of  the  oil  or 
the  essence  of  peppermint  to  mixtures  given  internally  in  the  treatment  of  gonorrhoea. 
It  is  said  to  allay  urethral  pain  (Bull,  de  Therap .,  xcii.  105). 

In  dental  caries  this  oil  is  quite  as  efficient  in  relieving  pain  as  oil  of  cloves,  and 
more  permanent  in  its  effects  than  chloroform.  For  internal  use  oil  of  peppermint 
may  be  prescribed  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.05-0.15  (gtt.  j— iij ),  but  the  officinal  spirit  is  to  be 
preferred. 

OLEUM  MENTHA  VIRIDIS,  U.S.,  Br.— Oil  of  Spearmint. 

Essence  de  menthe  verte , Fr. ; Rbmisch-Minzol , G. ; Esencia  de  menta , Sp. 

The  volatile  oil  distilled  from  Mentha  viridis,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Labiatese. 

Preparation. — The  fresh  herb  is  distilled  in  the  United  States  and  Great  Britain 
with  water  or  by  means  of  steam  ; the  yield  is  about  \ to  \ per  cent. 

Properties. — It  resembles  oil  of  peppermint  in  color,  specific  gravity,  changes  pro- 
duced by  exposure,  and  behavior  to  iodine  and  to  polarized  light,  but  differs  from  it  in 
odor  and  the  slight  cooling  taste.  Its  spec.  grav.  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  is  from  0.93  to  0.94. 
We  have  noticed  that  fresh  oil  of  spearmint  usually  dissolves  clear  in  all  proportions, 
while  old  oil  yields  a turbid  solution  with  more  than  3 parts  of  80  per  cent,  alcohol.  As 
to  solubility  of  the  oil  the  Pharmacopoeia  states  that  with  an  equal  volume  of  alcohol  it 
forms  a clear  solution,  which  is  neutral  or  slightly  acid  to  litmus-paper.  When  some- 
what further  diluted  with  alcohol,  it  becomes  turbid.  It  also  affords  a clear  solution 
with  an  equal  volume  of  glacial  acetic  acid  and  with  half  its  volume  of  carbon  disul- 
phide ; but  with  an  equal  volume  of  the  latter  it  forms  a turbid  mixture.  Its  boiling- 
point,  according  to  Kane,  is  160°  C.  (320°  F.).  Its  odor,  like  that  of  oil  of  peppermint, 
is  preserved  for  a long  time  by  the  addition  of  3 or  4 per  cent,  of  alcohol. 

Composition. — Gladstone  (1863)  separated  from  the  oil  a hydrocarbon,  C10H16,  and 
an  oxygenated  oil,  C10HuO,  to  which  the  odor  is  due,  and  which  has  the  density  .9515 
and  boils  at  225°  C.  (437°  F.).  ; 

Uses. — Oil  of  spearmint  is  less  used  than  the  oils  of  peppermint  and  horsemint.  It 
appears  to  be  less  powerful  than  those  oils,  and  may  be  prescribed  in  doses  of  from  Gm. 
0.10-0.30  (2  to  0 drops),  diluted  with  sweetened  water  or  in  the  form  of  spirit  of  spear- 
mint. 


OLEUM  MORRHUJE,  U.  S.,  Br.—O od-Liver  Oil. 

Oleum  jecoris  aselli , P.  G.  ; Oleum  hepatis  morrhuse. — Cod  oil , E. ; Huile  de  morue , Hade 
de  foie  de  morue , Fr.  Cod. ; Leberthran , Stockfschleberthran , G. ; Aceite  de  higado  de 
bacalao,  Sp. 

The  fixed  oil  obtained  from  the  fresh  liver  of  Gadus  Morrhua,  Linne , and  of  other 
species  of  Gadus  (Class  Pisces ; Ord.  Teleostia  ; Fain.  Gadida). 

Origin. — The  common  cod , formerly  called  Asellus  major,  inhabits  the  Northern  Atlan- 
tic, and  is  frequently  met  with  on  the  North  American  coast  on  and  near  the  Banks  of 
Newfoundland,  where  it  seems  the  hake,  G.  Merluccius,  Linne , s.  Merluccius  communis, 
Cuvier, pollack,  G.  (Merlangus,  Cuvier)  pollachius,  Limit,  and  haddock,  G.  seglifinus,  Lame, 
are  likewise  used  to  some  extent  for  the  same  purpose.  On  the  Norwegian  coast,  accord- 


OLEUM  MORRHUM. 


1133 


ing  to  De  Jongh  (1843),  cod-liver  oil  is  mainly  produced  from  the  dorse,  G.  Callarius, 
Linne , but  also  from  the  pollack , the  coal-Jisli , G.  (Merlangus,  Cuvier ) carbonarius,  Linne , 
the  whiting , Merlangus  vulgaris,  Cuvier , s.  G.  Merlangus,  Linne , and  the  ling , Gadus  (Lota, 
Cuvier)  Molva,  Linne. 

Preparation. — On  the  coast  of  Norway  the  carefully-cleaned  livers  are  placed  in 
baskets  or  barrels  exposed  in  a sunny  place,  where  the  oil  slowly  exudes,  and  is  removed 
and  filtered ; or  the  livers  are  slowly  heated  in  a steam-  or  water-bath,  or  sometimes 
boiled  with  water,  the  oil  being  skimmed  off  from  the  surface.  (See  Proc.  Amer.  Phar. 
Assoc.,  1876,  p.  810.)  On  the  coast  of  North  America  cod-liver  oil  is  now  generally  very 
carefully  prepared.  The  introduction  of  ice  as  a means  of  preserving  has  developed  the 
business  of  transporting  codfish  fresh  to  the  inland  cities  during  the  catching  season, 
from  December  to  March,  and  likewise  that  of  the  proper  preparation  of  cod-liver  oil  from 
fresh  livers  on  shore  by  means  of  gradually  applied  steam-heat,  whereby  the  oil  is  sepa- 
rated from  the  tissues,  the  watery  portion  subsiding ; the  oil  is  placed  in  butts  in  the  cool- 
ing-room until  it  freezes  solid,  when  it  is  put  into  canvas  bags  and  expressed ; the  hard, 
yellowish  residue,  consisting  of  stearin  and  liver  debris,  is  sold  to  soapmakers,  while  the 
clear  oil  is  bottled  or  put  into  dry  barrels.  (See  Amer.  Jour.  Phar.,  1854,  p.  1 ; 1870,  p. 
214  ; 1883,  p.  471  ; Proc.  Amer.  Phar.  Assoc.,  1875,  p.  659.) 

Properties. — The  purest  cod-liver  oil  is  of  a pale-yellow  color,  never  quite  colorless 
unless  artificially  bleached  ; it  is  limpid,  has  a slight  fishy  but  not  rancid  odor,  a bland 
slightly  fishy  taste,  and  a faint  acid  reaction  ; but  if  prepared  at  a high  temperature,  or 
if  the  livers  are  allowed  to  more  or  less  putrefy,  it  has  a more  decided  reaction  and  a 
pale  or  darker  reddish-brown  color,  the  darkest  varieties  being  transparent  only  in  thin 
layers,  and  having  a repulsive  fishy  odor  and  a bitterish  acrid  taste.  The  acridity  and 
fishy  smell  are  less  marked  in  the  light-brown  oil,  and  still  less  in  the  yellow  or  white  oil, 
which  is  nearly  bland.  At  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  the  spec.  grav.  of  light  cod-liver  oil  is  0.920 
to  0.925,  of  the  dark-colored  about  0.930.  Cold  alcohol  dissolves  not  over  2.5  per  cent, 
from  the  yellow,  but  about  6 per  cent,  from  dark-brown,  cod-liver  oil  ; boiling  alcohol 
dissolves  1 or  2 per  cent.  more.  Ether,  chloroform,  and  carbon  disulphide  dissolve  it  in 
all  proportions ; the  oil  is  soluble  in  2.5  parts  of  acetic  ether.  At  a low  temperature  a 
granular  crystalline  deposit  is  separated,  in  largest  proportion  from  the  darker-colored  oil, 
but  good  medicinal  cod-liver  oil  should  at  0°  C.  (32°  F.)  deposit  very  little  or  no  stearin 
(P.  G.).  On  the  addition  of  sulphuric  acid  a violet  color,  soon  changing  to  brown-red, 
is  produced,  due  to  the  presence  of  biliary  compounds  ; the  violet  color  is  also  produced 
on  shaking  a solution  of  1 drop  of  cod-liver  oil  in  20  drops  of  chloroform  with  1 drop  of 
sulphuric  acid,  but  the  color  is  very  transient  and  becomes  pale-red  and  brownish.  Nitric 
acid  colors  cod-liver  oil  purple,  afterward  violet  and  brown.  In  contact  with  nitrous  acid 
the  oil  becomes  thicker,  but  does  not  solidify. 

Composition. — Cod-liver  oil  has  been  repeatedly  analyzed,  and  found  to  be  a mix- 
ture of  several  glycerides,  the  principal  one  being  olein,  with  variable  quantities  of  stearin, 
palmitin,  and  myristin,  increasing  with  the  darker  color.  Ilopfer  de  l’Orme  (1837)  first 
proved  the  presence  of  iodine,  which,  according  to  L.  Gmelin  (1840),  was  supposed  to  be 
in  combination  with  potassium  ; however,  hot  and  cold  water  and  alcohol  fail  to  extract  it, 
and  the  precise  form  in  which  iodine  is  present  is  still  unknown.  The  same  may  be  said 
of  bromine,  phosphorus,  and  sulphur.  Chevallier,  Donovan,  Herberger,  Marder,  and 
others  did  not  find  iodine  in  all  samples  of  cod-liver  oil ; some  investigators  have  found 
it  in  the  ashes  of  soap  prepared  from  it,  others  in  the  mother-liquor  after  separating  the 
soap.  De  Jongh  determined  its  amount  to  vary  between  .029  in  dark  and  .040  per  cent, 
in  light-brown  oil.  Mitchell  Bird  (1882),  however,  ascertained  that  10,000  parts  of  pale 
Norwegian  oil  contained  only  between  .21  and  .18  parts  ; pale  Newfoundland  oil,  .12  parts  ; 
and  the  pale-brown  oils,  .16  and  .14  parts  of  iodine.  Winckler’s  (1852)  statement  that 
glycerin  could  not  be  obtained  from  cod-liver  oil,  which  he  regarded  as  an  organic  whole 
containing  oxide  of  propyl,  has  not  been  corroborated  by  other  investigators.  P.  Carles 
(1882)  determined  the  amount  of  free  acid,  calculated  as  acetic  acid,  to  be  0.01  and  1.80 
per  cent,  in  pale  and  brown  cod-liver  oils  respectively.  De  Jongh  regards  the  acid  reac- 
tion of  cod-liver  oil  as  being  due  to  butyric  and  acetic  acids,  and  has  recognized  the  pres- 
ence in  it  of  several  biliary  acids,  coloring  principles,  and  gaduin.  The  latter,  according 
to  Gautier  and  Mourgues  (1888),  is  identical  with  morrhuic  acid,  which  exists  in  the  oil 
in  the  form  of  an  unstable  compound  resembling  lecithin,  which  decomposes  in  contact 
with  acids  and  alkalies,  yielding  glycerine,  phosphoric  acid,  and  morrhuic  acid,  C9H13N03. 
The  latter  is  oily,  becoming  solid,  dissolves  in  alcohol,  hot  water,  and  to  some  extent  in 
ether  \ decomposes  carbonates  and  forms  also  a hydrochloride,  which  is  decomposed  by 


1134 


OLEUM  MORRHUJE. 


water  with  the  formation  of  an  emulsion.  Gadic  acid,  is  the  name  given  by  Luck  (1857) 
to  a deposit  obtained  from  a light-brown  cod-liver  oil  ; recrystallized  from  hot  alcohol,  it 
fused  between  63°  and  64°  C.  (145.4°  and  147.2°  F.). 

Adulterations  are  very  difficult  to  detect,  because  the  colors  mentioned  above  are 
but  slightly  modified  by  the  presence  of  other  oils,  and  the  oils  obtained  from  the  livers 
of  some  other  fishes  show  similar  reactions.  Some  fish  oils,  however,  are  but  slightly 
colored  by  sulphuric  acid  ; others  do  not  become  violet  at  first,  but  at  once  turn  brown- 
red  or  dark-brown.  Such  substitutions  may  be  detected  by  this  test.  An  adulteration 
with  resin,  noticed  by  Bottger  in  1858,  may  be  detected  by  the  solubility  of  the  adulte- 
rant in  alcohol.  In  other  respects  the  physical  properties,  as  detailed  above,  still  afford 
the  best  criterion  of  the  purity  and  quality  of  cod-liver  oil. 

Tests. — “ Cod-liver  oil  should  not  be  more  than  but  very  slightly  acid  toward  litmus- 
paper,  previously  moistened  with  alcohol  (limit  of  free  fatty  acids).  When  the  oil  is 
allowed  to  stand  for  some  time  at  0°  C.  (32°  F.),  very  little  or  no  solid  fat  should  sepa- 
rate (absence  of  other  fish  oils  and  of  many  vegetable  oils).  If  to  10  or  15  drops  of  the 
oil,  contained  in  a watch-glass,  2 or  3 drops  of  fuming  nitric  acid  be  added  by  allowing 
it  to  flow  in  on  the  side,  a red  color  will  be  produced  at  the  point  of  contact,  which,  on 
stirring  the  mixture  with  a glass  rod,  becomes  bright  rose-red,  soon  changing  to  lemon- 
yellow  (distinction  from  seal  oil,  which  shows  at  first  no  change  of  color,  and  from  other 
fish  oils,  which  become  at  first  blue,  and  afterward  brown  and  yellow.)” — U.  S. 

Allied  Oils. — Oleum  squali. — Shark  oil,  E. ; Huile  de  requin,  de  selache,  Fr. ; Haileberthran, 
G. — It  is  made  from  the  liver  of  the  shark,  Squalus  Carcharias,  Linne , and  one  or  twc  allied 
species,  and  is  the  lightest  of  the  fish-oils,  its  density  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  being  .870  to  .880.  It  is 
light-yellow,  has  an  acrid  taste,  and  remains  limpid  at  —6°  C.  (21.2°  F.). 

Oleum  raj^e. — Ray  oil,  skate  oil,  E. ; Huile  de  raie,  Fr. ; Rochenthran,  G. — It  is  made  from 
the  liver  of  Raja  Batis,  Linne , and  is  employed  in  France  and  Belgium.  The  oil  is  pale-  or 
bright-yellow,  neutral,  has  the  spec.  grav.  .928  at  15°  C.,  a slight  fishy  odor  and  taste,  and  dis- 
solves in  2 parts  of  ether.  It  is  stated  to  contain  more  iodine  than  cod-liver  oil.  Oil  is  also 
extracted  from  the  liver  of  the  American  stingray , Pastinaca  hastata,  De  Kay. 

Fish  Oils. — These  are  in  part  obtained  from  different  fishes,  like  the  Alosa  Menhaden,  Cuvier. 
which  is  caught  on  the  New  England  coast  and  yields  menhaden  oil , principally  employed  in 
leather-dressing.  But  among  fish  oils  are  also  included  the  so-called  train  oils , obtained  from 
the  fleshy  parts  of  different  cetacean  mammals ; the  principal  ones  are : 

Oleum  ceti. — Sperm  oil,  E. ; Huile  de  cachalot,  Fr.;  Pottfischthran,  G. — From  Physeter 
macrocephalus,  Linne ; it  is  yellow  or  brown-yellow,  of  spec.  grav.  .920,  and  in  the  cold  deposits 
spermaceti  and  stearin  (see  also  page  439). 

Oleum  bal^enal — Whale  oil,  E.;  Huile  de  baleine,  F. ; Walfischthran,  G. — From  Bal^na 
mysticetus,  Linne , and  B.  australis,  Desmoulins , the  Greenland  or  right,  and  the  cape  or  south- 
ern, whale.  The  oil  has  a peculiar  fishy  odor  and  unpleasant  taste,  a density  of  .926,  and  begins 
to  deposit  a sediment  at  about  10°  C.  (50°  F.). 

Dugong  Oil,  from  Halicore  Dugong,  Cuvier , which  inhabits  the  waters  of  Eastern  Australia 
and  the  Indian  Archipelago,  has  been  used  in  place  of  cod-liver  oil  in  Australia. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparations. — Oleum  morrhu^e  ferratum  has  been  recom 
mended  for  some  years.  Bernbeck  (1875)  published  a process  of  which  the  following  is 
an  outline : A solution  of  1 part  of  well-dried  neutral  olive  oil  soap  in  20  parts  of  hot 
water  is  precipitated  by  the  gradual  addition  of  a similar  solution  of  1 part  of  ferrous  sul- 
phate ; the  precipitated  iron  soap  is  rapidly  collected  on  muslin,  washed,  and  expressed  to 
remove  the  water.  This  cake,  though  oxidizing  superficially,  will  internally  retain  its 
whitish  color  for  a long  time.  4 parts  of  this  soap  are  melted,  and  96  parts  of  previously 
warmed  cod-liver  oil  are  added,  and  the  heat  continued  for  half  an  hour  or  more.  This 
oil  is  of  a dark-brown  color,  and  contains  1 per  cent,  of  metallic  iron,  mostly  as  ferrous 
oleate.  A similar  product  is  obtained  by  dissolving  1 or  11  parts  of  ferric  benzoate  in 
100  parts  of  cod-liver  oil. 

Oleum  morrhu^e  iodatum.  Dissolve  1 part  of  iodine  in  a little  ether,  and  add  1000 
parts  of  cod-liver  oil. 

Extract  of  cod  liver  is  the  watery  liquid  obtained  from  the  livers  in  preparing  the 
oil,  and  evaporated;  it  yields  121  to  15  per  cent,  of  extract,  which  is  said  to  consist  of 
biliary  constituents  60.6,  water  21.8,  the  remainder  being  various  salts.  It  was  at  one 
time  (1866)  recommended  as  a substitute  for  cod-liver  oil. 

Action  and  Uses. — Cod-liver  oil  is  essentially  a fat-producing  agent,  and  thereby 
it  retards  the  waste  of  nitrogenous  tissues  which  is  a characteristic  of  the  diseases  in 
which  it  is  most  serviceable.  In  this  connection  it  should  be  borne  in  mind  that  among 
the  various  agents  vaunted  from  time  to  time  as  remedies  for  consumption  the  most 
efficient  have  been  oils  and  fats — e.  g.  asses’  milk,  cream,  butter,  fat  pork,  buffalo  marrow, 


OLEUM  MO  RE  HUM. 


1135 


etc.  Bat  cod-liver  oil  has  the  advantage  over  all  of  these  articles  that  it  excels  them  in 
digestibility.  On  what  the  latter  quality  depends  is  not  fully  determined,  but  the  most 
plausible  opinion  is  that  it  is  due  to  the  portion  of  biliary  matter  which  the  oil  holds  in 
solution.  It  has  been  shown  experimentally , that  different  oils  vary  extremely  in  their 
diffusibility  through  membranes,  and  that  cod-liver  oil  is  six  or  eight  times  more  diffusible 
than  other  oils,  vegetable  or  animal.  Such  appears  to  be  the  simple  fact,  but  the  expla- 
nation of  it  is  not  easy.  It  has  been  ascribed  to  the  presence  in  the  oil  of  a certain  pro- 
portion of  bile,  and  it  is  asserted  that  when  this  bile  is  removed  the  oil  loses  its 
diffusibility  in  the  same  proportion.  But,  on  the  other  hand,  it  is  alleged  that  the  pro- 
cess employed  to  remove  the  bile  has  not  really  that  effect,  but  eliminates  certain  other 
constituents  of  the  oil.  However  this  may  be,  no  more  satisfactory  theory  has  been 
proposed.  Moreover,  this  view  is  corroborated  by  the  experiment  in  which  an  animal 
with  a biliary  fistula  became  more  and  more  emaciated  as  long  as  it  used  only  its  ordinary 
food,  but  regained  flesh  and  strength  when  a due  proportion  of  cod-liver  oil  was  added. 
It  has  been  maintained  that  cod-liver  oil  owes  its  peculiar  digestibility  to  the  fatty  acids  it 
contains,  and  that  the  superiority  of  the  dark  over  the  light  varieties  is  due  to  the  larger 
proportion  of  these  acids  contained  in  the  former  (Hauser,  Zeitsch.  Min.  Med.,  xiv.  543). 

From  time  immemorial  cod-liver  oil  was  a popular  remedy  for  chronic  gout  and 
rheumatism,  rickets,  and  scrofula  in  Great  Britain  and  the  countries  bordering  on  the 
German  Ocean,  but  it  was  not  until  about  1841  that  it  became  generally  known  and  used 
as  a remedy  for  pulmonary  consumption.  The  enthusiasm  which  inevitably  attends  the 
introduction  of  a new  medicine  of  real  efficacy  exaggerated  the  benefits  conferred  by  cod- 
liver  oil  in  these  diseases,  but  time  and  well-considered  experience  have  nevertheless 
proved  it  to  be  a valuable  remedy.  Its  curative  powers  in  chronic  rheumatism  have  been 
strikingly  shown  in  cases  of  that  disease  prolonged  by  a cachectic  state  of  the  system — 
cases  in  which  the  muscles  grow  rigid  and  the  joints  stiff,  and  when  to  the  debilitating 
influence  of  these  infirmities  is  added  the  influence  of  dampness,  crowding,  bad  ventila- 
tion, and  coarse  and  insufficient  food,  especially  in  persons  of  an  originally  scrofulous 
constitution.  In  regard  to  scrofula  itself,  the  medicine  is  singularly  efficacious  when  the 
disease  affects  the  internal  lymphatic  glands  and  the  bones  under  the  bad  hygienic  condi- 
tions just  enumerated.  Yet  it  is  by  no  means  to  be  depended  upon  in  cases  of  supposed 
mesenteric  disease — not  only  because  the  enlargement  of  the  abdomen  which  is  thought 
to  indicate  its  existence  in  children  is  commonly  a result  of  splenic  or  hepatic  disorder, 
but,  still  more,  because  true  tabes  mesenterica  is  most  apt  to  be  associated  with  incurable 
tuberculosis  of  the  intestines.  It  is  of  little  use  in  scrofulous  enlargement  of  the  paro- 
tid, thyroid,  and  submaxillary  glands,  or  of  the  glands  of  the  neck,  axillae,  and  groins ; 
but  its  efficacy  is  seen  in  the  cure  of  the  ulcers  left  after  the  discharge  of  softened  scrof- 
ulous matter  from  these  parts.  Its  utility  in  scrofulous  ophthalmia  is  far  from  being 
established  ; at  least  one-half  of  the  cases  receive  no  benefit  from  it.  It  is  a more  valuable 
remedy  in  all  forms  of  idiopathic  strumous  caries , especially  when  it  affects  the  epiphyses 
of  the  long  bones ; and  it  is  still  more  evidently  beneficial  in  rachitis.  It  is  also  said  to 
be  an  efficient  remedy  in  “ laryngismus  stridulus  ” (. Practitioner , xxxvii.  426).  In  the 
treatment  of  white  swelling  and  other  forms  of  chronic  arthritis , and  of  fstulse  and 
abscesses  in  the  neighborhood  of  joints,  its  powers  are  sometimes  signally  displayed. 
The  various  diseases  of  the  skin  to  which  scrofulous  persons  are  peculiarly  liable  are 
often  most  favorably  influenced  by  this  medicine.  Among  them,  lupus  vulgaris  is 
reputed  to  have  been  cured  by  it  more  frequently  than  by  any  other  internal  remedy, 
while  some  high  authorities  declare  that  no  cure  of  existing  lupus  ever  results 
directly  from  any  kind  of  internal  treatment  whatever.  It  is  true  also  that  even 
when  given  for  this  disease  it  is  generally  associated  with  other  and  active  medicines. 
In  several  scrofulous  diseases  of  the  skin,  and  especially  of  the  scalp,  this  oil  appears  to 
have  been  used  with  success  both  internally  and  topically.  Such  diseases  are  impetigo , 
chronic  eczema,  psoriasis,  and  favus.  Even  ichthyosis  is  said  to  have  been  cured  by  similar 
means. 

The  great  success  which  cod-liver  oil  at  one  time  was  believed  to  have  gained  as  a cure 
for  pulmonary  consumption  has  tended  more  than  any  other  cause  to  maintain  the  reputa- 
tion of  the  medicine.  It  is  now  determined  that  it  exerts  little  if  any  direct  influence 
upon  the  structural  elements  of  that  disease,  and  that  it  can  be  said  to  cure  only  those 
rare  cases  in  which  other  and  especially  hygienic  methods  have  also  restored  consumptive 
patients  to  apparently  good  health.  Such  are  those  in  which  the  patient  is  of  a sluggish, 
lymphatic  temperament  and  the  tubercular  deposit  is  strictly  limited  to  a small  portion 
of  one  lung.  The  efficiency  of  the  medicine  is  much  more  notable  when  a cavity  is 


1136 


OLEUM  MYRCUE. 


already  formed  than  when  the  deposit  is  in  a crude  state.  It  plainly  acts  by  maintaining 
the  general  health  of  the  system  while  the  local  disease  undergoes  retrogression,  for  it 
constantly  happens  that  although  the  latter  process  fails  to  occur,  but  on  the  contrary  the 
destruction  of  the  lung  advances,  yet  the  patient  for  a time  gains  weight  and  strength. 
In  the  more  favorable  examples  the  symptoms  which  depend  upon  the  local  lesion  are 
mitigated,  and  even  suspended,  such  as  fever,  sweating,  cough,  and  expectoration.  Yet 
in  proportion  as  these  symptoms  prevail  the  oil  fails  to  do  good  or  is  not-  tolerated. 
Although  cod-liver  oil  is  no  longer  claimed  to  be  a cure  for  consumption,  it  still  remains 
incomparably  the  most  efficient  medicine  in  prolonging  the  lives  of  the  victims  of  this 
disease,  and  enabling  them  to  take  advantage  of  the  hygienic  measures  upon  which  the 
main  reliance  should  be  placed.  Chronic  bronchitis , which  is  so  apt  to  be  mistaken  for 
tubercular  phthisis,  is  often  signally  benefited  by  this  medicine  and  by  the  same  mode  of 
action.  A like  remark  is  applicable  to  numerous  diseases  of  the  nervous  system  due  to  or 
maintained  by  an  exhausted  condition  of  its  functions. 

In  all  diseases  its  use  is  contraindicated  when  it  cannot  be  retained  by  the  stomach  or 
when  it  is  not  well  digested,  but  causes  eructation,  heartburn,  diarrhoea,  etc.,  and  generally 
when  fever  is  present. 

The  average  dose  of  cod-liver  oil  is  Gm.  4 (,^ss)  three  times  a day  an  hour  or  two  after 
meals.  It  is  better  to  begin  with  half  of  this  quantity.  Various  means  have  been 
employed  to  disguise  the  taste  and  smell  of  the  oil  and  render  it  acceptable  to  the  stom- 
ach. These  means  are  generally  superfluous  among  children,  who  often  become  fond  of  it, 
and  also  among  persons  whose  taste  is  not  fastidious.  The  use  of  ether,  naphtha, 
peppermint,  and  similar  agents  is  objectionable,  since  they  become  volatilized  in  the 
stomach  and  renew  the  taste  of  the  oil  by  eructation.  Less  apt  to  produce  this  effect  is 
alcohol  in  the  form  of  some  distilled  spirit,  with  which  the  mouth  should  first  be  washed, 
after  which  the  oil,  floating  upon  another  portion  of  the  liquor,  maybe  rapidly  swallowed, 
Malt  liquor  which  froths  readily  is  an  excellent  article  for  enveloping  the  oil  and  conceal- 
ing its  taste.  Floated  on  iron-rust  water,  with  some  of  which  the  mouth  and  fauces  have 
just  been  washed,  is  another  available  means  of  effecting  the  same  purpose.  But  the 
best  of  all  is  chewing  a small  fragment  of  smoked  herring.  As  acid  condiments  are  eaten 
with  fishy  food,  so  it  has  been  proposed  to  administer  cod-liver  oil  with  a modicum  of 
walnut  or  tomato  catsup.  The  various  emulsions  made  for  concealing  the  taste  of  the  oil 
become  more  objectionable  to  most  patients  than  the  oil  itself;  they  are  also  too  bulky, 
by  reason  of  the  proportion  of  the  excipient  they  require.  When  the  stomach  tends  to 
reject  the  oil  this  effect  can  sometimes  be  prevented  by  preceding  each  dose  by  one  of  a 
solution  of  potassium  cyanide  containing  not  more  than  Gm.  0.008  (i  grain)  of  the 
cyanide.  But  the  possible  dangers  of  the  misuse  of  this  solution  forbid  its  ordinary 
employment.  It  is  better,  as  well  as  safer,  to  swallow  a tablespoonful  of  lime-water  or 
Gm.  0.30  (gr.  v -f)  of  bismuth  subnitrate  or  subcarbonate  a few  minutes  before  the  oil 
is  taken.  The  oil  has  sometimes  been  mixed  with  arrowroot  or  with  spermaceti,  forming 
a bolus  which  may  be  taken  enclosed  in  a wafer. 

Cod-liver  oil  may  be  efficiently  administered  by  injunction.  It  is,  however,  a filthy 
method.  Dr.  H.  A.  Hare  ( Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  March,  1887,  p.  279)  claims 
that  the  bile  salts,  sodium  taurocholate  and  glychocholate,  added  to  the  oil,  materially  pro- 
mote and  hasten  its  absorption  by  the  skin,  and  thereby  render  the  practice  less  objection- 
able. 

“ Morrhuol ,”  considered  by  Lafage  to  contain  the  active  elements  of  cod-liver  oil,  is 
analogous  to  the  extract  above  described.  It  is  alleged  to  contain  ten  times  more  phos- 
phorus, iodine,  and  bromine  than  the  oil,  but  medicinally  it  is  a very  different  substance 
and  must  act  differently.  It  has  been  proposed  as  a substitute  for  the  oil,  however,  and, 
owing  to  its  acrid  taste,  has  been  administered  in  capsules  containing  about  4 grains,  of 
which  from  two  to  ten  are  stated  to  be  the  proper  daily  dose.  It  is  said  to  improve  the 
appetite  and  digestion,  and  with  them  the  state  of  the  lungs  in  phthisis,  and  not  to  derange 
any  function  whatever  (Bull,  de  Tlierap .,  cix.  417). 

“ Oolachan  ” oil,  derived  from  a small  fish  (Thalicthys  Pacificus  or  Candle-fish)  that  is 
caught  on  the  north-western  coast  of  North  America,  is  said  to  form  an  efficient  substi- 
tute for  cod-liver  oil  ( NewYoi-k  Med.  Jour.,  Nov.  29,  1884). 

OLEUM  MYRCLE,  U.  S.— Oil  of  Myrcia. 

Oil  of  bay , E.  ; Essence  de  myrcie  (de  bay ),  Fr. ; Myrcienol , Bayol , G. 

The  volatile  oil  distilled  from  the  leaves  of  Myrcia  acris,  De  Candolle , s.  Myrtus 


OLEUM  MY  FUSTIC JE. 


1137 


(Eugenia,  Wight  et  Arnott , Pimenta,  Wight , Amomis,  Berg')  acris,  Sicartz.  Bentley  and 
Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 110. 

Nat.  Orel. — Myrtaceae. 

Origin. — This  medium-sized  tree  is  known  as  wild  clove , wild  cinnamon , and  hayherry , 
and  is  indigenous  to  the  West  Indies  and  Venezuela.  The  quadrangular  branches  bear 
opposite,  shortly-petiolate,  coriaceous,  broadly  oval,  nearly  obtuse,  entire,  strongly-veined, 
and  pellucid-punctate  leaves,  which  when  bruised  exhale  an  agreeable  aromatic  odor, 
somewhat  similar  to  cloves.  The  flowers  are  small,  reddish,  and  stalked ; the  fruit  is  a 
globular-ovoid  smooth  berry,  resembling  allspice.  Much  of  the  oil  and  the  spirit,(bay 
rum),  particularly  the  latter,  are  now  distilled  in  the  United  States,  about  200  pounds 
of  the  oil  being  annually  imported. 

Preparation. — The  leaves  are  distilled  with  water  or  by  the  aid  of  steam  ; at  first 
a light  oil,  floating  upon  water,  comes  over,  afterward  an  oil  heavier  than  water  ; the 
light  and  heavy  fractions,  united,  constitute  the  commercial  oil.  The  yield  is  very  vari- 
able (Markoe,  1877). 

Properties. — Oil  of  myreia  recently  distilled  is  of  a light-brownish  color,  but 
becomes  darker  on  exposure.  It  has  an  aromatic  odor,  resembling  that  of  cloves  and 
allspice,  but  more  fragrant,  and  a warm  pleasantly  spicy  taste.  Its  specific  gravity  at 
15°  C.  (59°  F.)  is  0.975  to  0.990.  It  forms  a turbid  mixture  with  an  equal  volume  of 
alcohol,  the  solution  having  an  acid  reaction.  With  an  equal  volume  of  glacial  acetic 
acid  it  also  yields  a turbid  mixture,  but  dissolves  clear  in  the  same  quantity  of  carbon 
disulphide.  Strong  soda  or  potassa  solution  converts  it  into  a crystalline  mass  of  potas- 
sium or  sodium  eugenol. 

Tests. — “ If  2 drops  of  the  oil  be  dissolved  in  4 Cc.  of  alcohol  and  a drop  of  ferric 
chloride  test-solution  be  added,  a light-green  color  will  be  produced ; and  if  the  same  test 
be  made  with  a drop  of  diluted  ferric  chloride  test-solution,  prepared  by  diluting  the  test- 
solution  with  four  times  its  volume  of  water,  a light-bluish  coloration  will  be  produced, 
which  soon  disappears.  If  to  3 drops  of  the  oil,  contained  in  a small  test-tube,  3 drops 
of  concentrated  sulphuric  acid  be  added,  and,  after  the  tube  has  been  corked,  the 
mixture  be  allowed  to  stand  for  half  an  hour,  a resinous  mass  will  be  obtained.  On 
subsequently  adding  4 Cc.  of  diluted  alcohol,  vigorously  shaking  the  mixture,  and 
gradually  heating  to  the  boiling-point,  the  liquid  should  remain  nearly  colorless,  and 
should  not  acquire  a red  or  purplish-red  color  (distinction  from  the  oils  of  pimenta  and 
of  cloves).  If  1 Cc.  of  the  oil  be  shaken  with  20  Cc.  of  hot  water,  the  water  should 
not  show  more  than  a scarcely  perceptible  acid  reaction  to  litmus-paper.  If  after 
cooling  the  liquid  be  passed  through  a wet  filter,  the  clear  filtrate  should  afford,  with  a 
drop  of  ferric  chloride  test-solution,  only  a transient  grayish-green,  but  not  a blue  or  vio- 
let color  (absence  of  phenol  or  carbolic  acid.” — IT.  S. 

Composition. — Prof.  Markoe  (1877)  showed  the  oil  to  be  a mixture  of  hydro- 
carbon having  at  15.5°  C,  (60°  F.)  the  specific  gravity  .8356,  and  of  eugenol,  spec.  grav. 
1.055.  L.  C.  Pettit  (1880)  obtained  41  per  cent,  of  eugenol,  which  gave  a crimson-red 
color  with  sulphuric  acid.  (For  accounts  of  this  volatile  oil  see  Amer.  Jour.  Phar .,  1861, 
p.  297,  and  Proceedings  of  Amer.  Jour.  Phar .,  1877,  p.  435.) 

Uses. — This  oil  is  chiefly  used  as  a perfume,  and  especially  as  an  ingredient  of  bay 
rum  ( Spirilus  my  reive). 

OLEUM  MYRISTICiE,  U.  S.,  Br.- Oil  of  Nutmeg. 

Oleum  nucistse  sethereum. — Volatile  oil  of  nutmeg , E. ; Essence  de  m.uscade,  Fr. ; JEthc- 
nsches  Muskatol , G.  ; Esencia  de  nuez  moscada,  Sp. 

The  volatile  oil  distilled  from  the  seed  of  Myristica  fragrans,  Houttuyn. 

Nat.  Ord. — -Myristicacese. 

Preparation. — Ground  nutmegs  are  distilled  by  the  aid  of  steam.  The  yield  is 
between  2 and  3 per  cent.,  but  selected  nutmegs  yield  sometimes  as  much  as  8 per  cent. 
Cloez  (1864)  suggested  exhaustion  with  carbon  bisulphide  and  distilling  the  extract  by 
means  of  steam. 

Properties. — The  oil  is  colorless  or  pale-yellowish,  limpid,  of  specific  gravity  0.87  to 
0.90  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  of  an  agreeable  aromatic  odor,  a warm  somewhat  camphoraceous 
taste,  and  dextrogyre  to  polarized  light.  It  is  readily  soluble  in  alcohol,  also  in  glacial 
acetic  acid  and  carbon  disulphide,  commences  to  boil  at  160°  C.  (320°  F.),  fulminates 
when  brought  into  contact  with  iodine,  is  energetically  acted  on  by  nitric  acid,  becomes 
dark-red  with  Frohde’s  reagent,  and  violet  by  hydrochloric  acid  (Dragendorff,  1877). 


1138 


OLEUM  MYRISTICLE  EXPRESSUM. 


Composition. — The  most  volatile  portion,  after  treatment  with  sodium,  was  found 
by  Cloez  to  be  a left-rotating  hydrocarbon,  C10H16,  having  the  odor  of  nutmeg  and  of 
lemon,  and  boiling  at  165°  C.  (329°  F.).  It  is  the  myristicene  of  Gladstone  (1872),  who 
named  the  oxygenated  portion  myristicol , C10HuO  ; this  is  dextrogvre,  boils  at  224°  C. 
(435°  F.),  and  does  not,  like  menthol  and  carvol,  yield  a crystalline  compound  with 
H2S.  The  nutmeg  camphor  of  John  (1821)  or  myristicin  of  Gmelin,  which  separates 
sometimes  on  standing,  was  ascertained  by  Fliickiger  (1874)  to  be  myristic  acid.  * (See 
below.) 

Uses. — Oil  of  nutmeg  is  seldom  used  in  medicine ; it  may  be  employed  for  the  same 
purposes  as  nutmeg  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.10-0.15  (gtt.  ij-iij). 

OLEUM  MYRISTICA  EXPRESSUM,  ^.—Expressed  Oil  of  Nutmeg. 

Oleum  nucistse , P.  G. ; Adeps  ( Butyrum ) myristicse , s.  nucistse. — Nutmeg  butter , E. ; 
Beurre  de  muscade , Fr.  ; Muskatnussol , Muskatbutter , G.  ; Aceite  ( manteca ) de  nuez  mos- 
cada , Sp. 

Preparation. — This  fixed  oil  is  obtained  in  the  East  Indies  by  beating  nutmegs  into 
a paste,  which  is  expressed  between  heated  plates.  The  yield  is  about  28  per  cent., 
and  the  annual  importation  into  the  United  States  is  usually  between  300  and  500 
pounds ; in  1880  it  was  1964  pounds.  The  oil  is  incorrectly  called  oil  of  mace. 

Properties. — It  is  found  in  commerce  in  the  shape  of  blocks  about  2i  inches 
(6  Cm.)  thick  and  10  inches  (25  Cm.)  long,  and  is  wrapped  in  palm-leaves.  It  is  solid 
and  firm,  unctuous  to  the  touch,  of  a mottled  appearance,  orange-brown  and  whitish  in 
color,  of  specific  gravity  .995,  and  has  the  fragrance  and  aromatic  but  bland  taste  of 
nutmegs.  It  melts  at  about  45°  C.  (113°  F.),  and  is  soluble  in  2 parts  of  warm  ether 
and  4 parts  of  boiling  strong  alcohol  (Lecanu). 

Constituents. — Cold  alcohol  dissolves  about  6 per  cent,  of  volatile  oil  (see  above) 
and  24  per  cent,  of  fat,  accompanied  by  brown-yellow  resinous  matter,  which  has  not  been 
further  examined.  The  remaining  pulverulent  white  fat  is  myristin , C3H5(C14H2702)3, 
which  crystallizes  from  hot  alcohol  or  ether  and  fuses  at  31°  C.  (87.8°  F.).  Heintz 
(1854)  found  the  melting-point  of  myristic  acid  at  53.8°  C.  (128.8°  F.).  Schmidt  and 
Roemer  (1883)  found  3 to  4 per  cent,  of  free  myristic  acid,  with  a little  stearic  acid. 

Adulterations. — Artificial  mixtures  made  from  animal  fats  are  not  soluble  in  the 
same  amount  of  hot  alcohol,  and  the  portion  insoluble  in  cold  alcohol  would  be  more  or 
less  greasy.  “ On  warming  1 part  of  nutmeg  butter  with  10  parts  of  alcohol  a solution 
should  be  obtained  which,  after  cooling  and  filtering,  is  clear  and  pale-yellow,  and  with 
the  addition  of  ammonia  should  become  brownish,  but  not  red  (turmeric)  ; ferric  chloride 
should  color  the  solution  merely  dingy-brown.” — P.  G. 

Ceratum  myristica,  s.  Balsamum  nucist^:,  P.  G.  Melt  together  yellow  wax  1 
part,  olive  oil  2 parts,  and  expressed  oil  of  nutmeg  6 parts ; pour  into  paper  capsules  and 
cut  into  square  cakes. 

Allied  Fats. — Becuiba  Tallow  is  expressed  from  the  seeds  of  Myristica  Becuhyba,  Schott , s. 
M.  officinalis,  Martius , which  is  indigenous  to  Brazil.  The  fat  resembles  the  officinal  article,  but 
has  a sharp  acidulous  taste,  melts  at  47°  C.  (116.6°  F.),  and  on  treatment  with  cold  absolute 
alcohol  leaves  45  per  cent,  of  yellow  pulverulent  residue  undissolved. 

Otoba  Butter  is  prepared  from  Myristica  Otoba,  Humboldt  et  Bonpland , indigenous  to  North- 
western South  America.  It  is  yellowish,  becomes  brown  by  age,  melts  at  38°  (100.4°  F.),  and 
has  then  an  unpleasant  odor.  Its  myristin  melts  at  46°  C.  (114.8°  F.),  and  contains  otobit,  which 
is  sparingly  soluble  in  cold  alcohol,  crystallizes  in  colorless,  inodorous,  and  tasteless  prisms,  and 
melts  at  133°  C.  (271.4°  F.)  (Uricoechea,  1854). 

Virola  Tallow,  Ocuba  AVax,  is  prepared  from  Yirola  (Myristica,  Swartz)  sebifera,  Aublef, 
indigenous  to  Guiana.  The  fat  is  yellowish,  somewhat  crystalline,  completely  soluble  in  alcohol, 
and  melts  at  45°  to  50°  C.  (113°-122°  F.). 

Uses. — The  fixed  oil  of  nutmeg  is  sometimes  used  for  the  friction  of  rheumatic 
parts,  but  chiefly  as  a bland  and  smooth  fatty  substance  that  does  not  easily  grow  rancid, 
and  is  therefore  suitable  as  an  excipient  of  more  active  topical  medicines. 

OLEUM  OLIVYE,  V.  S.,  Br.— Olive  Oil. 

Oleum  olivarum , P.  G. — Sweet  oil,  E. ; Huile  d' olive,  Fr. ; Olivenol,  G. ; Aceite  de  ohvas,  Sp. 

The  fixed  oil  expressed  from  the  fruit  of  Olea  europsea,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen, 
Med.  Plants.  172. 

Nat  Ord. — Oleacese. 


OLEUM  OLIVjE. 


1139 


Origin. — In  its  wild  state  the  olive  is  almost  shrubby,  much  branched,  and  thorny, 
but  under  cultivation  it  is  a medium-sized  tree.  It  is  indigenous  to  Western  Asia,  par- 
ticularly Syria,  and  has  been  cultivated  for  a long  time  in  the  countries  bordering  on  the 
Mediterranean.  It  has  been  introduced  into  the  Southern  United  States,  California,  and 
several  South  American  and  other  countries.  The  tree  has  evergreen,  opposite,  shortly- 
petiolate  leaves,  which  are  lanceolate,  acute  at  both  ends,  entire  and  revolute  on  the  mar- 
gin, and  densely  scaly,  silvery  gray,  brownish-  or  glaucous-green  beneath.  The  numer- 
ous small  white  flowers  are  in  axillary  racemes,  diandrous,  have  a two-celled  and 
four-ovuled  superior  embryo,  and  produce  a purplish-black  ovate  drupe  with  a greenish, 
firm  sarcocarp  and  an  obliquely  oblong  keeled  putamen  containing  a single  albuminous 
seed. 

The  leaves  and  bark  have  been  employed  in  France  as  a febrifuge.  De  Luca  (1861,  etc.) 
found  the  leaves  and  green  fruit  to  contain  mannit,  which  diminishes  in  the  latter  as  the 
fruit  ripens,  and  disappears  entirely  when  it  becomes  perfectly 
ripe.  It  contains  then  the  largest  amount  of  oil,  equal  in  weight 
to  nearly  70  per  cent,  of  the  sarcocarp. 

Preparation. — The  finest  quality  of  olive  oil  is  obtained 
by  crushing  the  recently-collected  ripe  olives  in  a suitable  mill 
to  a pulpy  mass,  care  being  taken  in  some  districts  not  to  break 
the  putamen  containing  the  seed;  the  pulpy  mass  is  then  sub- 
jected to  moderate  pressure,  the  oil,  called  virgin  oil  (Huile 
vierge,  Fr.;  Jungfernol,  6^.),  being  collected  in  cisterns  contain- 
ing water,  from  the  surface  of  which  it  is  subsequently  skimmed. 

The  press-cakes  are  afterward  thoroughly  mixed  with  water  and 
the  marc  again  expressed,  using  an  increased  pressure,  whereby 
a second  quality  of  oil  is  obtained ; in  some  places  cold  water  is 
first  used  for  softening  the  press-cakes,  and  is  followed  by  hot 
water.  However,  with  the  improvements  in  the  construction  of 
powerful  presses  this  portion  of  the  process  is  much  simplified, 
and  a larger  yield  of  oil  of  fine  quality  is  obtained.  The  oil 
still  remaining  in  the  marc  is  said  to  amount  to  between  9 and 
12  per  cent.,  and  is  extracted  by  means  of  carbon  disulphide;  or 
the  marc  is  thrown  into  cisterns,  which  in  Southern  France  are 
called  evfer , and  where  an  oil  called  huile  d'enfer , having  a dis- 
agreeable odor,  separates  upon  the  water.  A larger  amount  of 
oil.  but  much  inferior  in  quality,  is  yielded  by  expressing  olives 
which  have  been  kept  in  heaps  and  undergone  a kind  of  fermen- 
tation; this  oil  is  known  in  France  as  huile  fermentee ; and  a still  more  inferior  oil  is 
prepared  by  again  mixing  the  residue  with  boiling  water  and  expressing.  Though  the 
seeds  have  a bitterish  taste,  Fliickiger  found  the  oil  to  be  quite  bland,  to  be  a non- 
drying oil,  and,  if  extracted  with  the  oil  of  the  fruit,  to  constitute  about  one-fortieth  of 
the  latter. 

Olive  oil  enters  commerce  put  up  in  bottles  of  various  sizes,  also  in  stone  jugs  and 
in  barrels.  The  importation  of  olive  oil  into  the  United  States  amounts  annually  to 
over  400,000  gallons,  fully  three-fifths  of  which  quantity  is  salad  oil. 

Properties. — Olive  oil  is  a pale-yellow  or  greenish-yellow  oily  liquid,  having  a 
neutral  reaction,  a slight  agreeable  odor,  and  a bland  taste,  leaving,  even  in  its  freshest 
condition,  a slight  sense  of  acridity  ( Pharmaeographia ),  which  is  somewhat  increased  on 
keeping.  Its  specific  gravity  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  is  0.9178,  or  between  0.915  and  0.918 
(U  S.,  P.  Gi).  At  and  below  10°  C.  (50°  F.)  olive  oil  separates  white  crystalline 
granules;  near  2°  C.  (35.6°  F.)  it  is  of  a butyraceous  consistence;  and  it  congeals  com- 
pletely at  or  below  the  freezing-point  of  water,  yielding,  however,  by  strong  pressure, 
from  67  to  72  per  cent,  of  liquid  oil,  which  remains  fluid  at  — 10°  C.  (14°  F.),  and  is 
nearly  pure  olein.  The  solid  portion  fuses  between  20°  C.  (68°  F.)  (Pelouze  and  Bou- 
det)  and  28°  C.  (82.4°  F.)  (Lecanu),  and  is  easily  soluble  in  ether.  Olive  oil  is  sparingly 
soluble  in  alcohol,  freely  soluble  in  ether,  soluble  in  all  proportions  in  chloroform,  benzene, 
benzin,  and  carbon  disulphide,  and  in  about  5 parts  of  acetic  ether.  It  does  not  readily 
become  rancid,  and  belongs  to  the  non-drying  oils.  When  heated  to  120°  C.  (248°  F.) 
it  becomes  lighter,  and  at  220°  C.  (428°  F.)  nearly  colorless,  and  at  the  same  time  ran- 
cid; it  commences  to  boil  at  about  315°  C.  (600°  F.). 

Inferior  qualities  of  olive  oil  are  of  a deeper  hue,  become  cloudy,  and  congeal  more 
easily,  have  a more  decidedly  acrid  after-taste,  and  turn  rancid  on  exposure, 


Fig.  198. 


Olea  europsea,  Linne. 


1140 


OLEUM  OLIVjE. 


The  German  Pharmacopoeia  recognizes  two  qualities  of  olive  oil — the  one  intended  for 
internal  use  and  for  ointments,  the  other  used  for  the  preparation  of  plasters : 

Oleum  oliyarum,  s.  Oleum  provinciale. — Best  olive  oil,  E .;  Huile  d’olive  fine, 
Fr. ; Provencer'ol,  G. — It  is  the  oil  described  above. 

Oleum  oli varum  commune. — Olive  oil,  E.;  Huile  d’olive  ordinaire,  Fr.;  Baumol, 

G. — This  is  the  second  quality  of  salad  oil,  has  a brownish-yellow  or  green-yellow  color, 
and,  except  a somewhat  less  pleasant  odor  and  taste,  agrees  with  the  preceding. 

Oomposition. — The  liquid  portion  is  triolein  (olein),  C3H5(C18H330.2)S,  and  is  identical 
with  the  liquid  portion  of  most  non-drying  fats,  as  far  as  they  have  been  examined.  The 
solid  part  was  called  margarin  by  Chevreul,  which  was  proven  by  Heintz  (1852)  to  be  a 
mixture  containing  chiefly  pdlmitin.  Palmitic  acid,  Ci6H3202,  was  obtained  from  olive  oil 
by  Collett  (1854),  and  also  by  Heintz  and  Krug  (1857),  who  likewise  isolated  arachic 
( butinic ) acid , C20H40O2,  and  probably  stearic  acid.  On  saponification  glycerin  is  obtained. 
The  fats  composing  olive  oil  are,  therefore,  triolein,  tripalmitin,  triarachin,  and  possibly 
tristearin.  Beneke  (1862)  announced  also  the  presence  of  a small  quantity  of  cholesterin , 
C26H440,  which  is  soluble  in  alcohol  (see  page  714). 

Adulterations. — Olive  oil  is  frequently  adulterated  with  other  bland  oils,  some  of 
which  are  occasionally  even  substituted  for  it.  The  determination  of  its  purity  has  been 
the  subject  of  much  research,  but  from  the  chemical  identity  of  the  constituent  com- 
pounds of  many  oils,  and  the  natural  variation  of  their  relative  proportions  in  the  same 
fat,  it  is  evidently  attended  with  many  difficulties.  A higher  specific  gravity  than  given 
above  points  to  an  admixture  of  other  fats.  The  detection  of  drying  in  non-drying  oils, 
and  the  testing  by  means  of  sulphuric  acid,  etc.,  have  been  described  above. 

Tests. — “ If  1 part  of  olive  oil  be  agitated  in  a test-tube  with  2 parts  of  a cold  mix- 
ture prepared  from  equal  volumes  of  strong  sulphuric  acid  and  of  nitric  acid  of  sp.  gr. 
1.185,  and  the  mixture  be  set  aside  for  half  an  hour,  the  supernatant  oily  layer  should 
not  have  a darker  tint  than  yellowish  (a  dark  color  indicating  the  presence  of  other  fixed 
oils).  Olive  oil  remains  pale-yellow  or  becomes  greenish  ; benne  oil  turns  reddish  or  red ; 
sunflower  oil,  orange-yellow  ; ground-nut  oil,  reddish-brown  ; cotton-seed  oil,  dark  red. 

If  1 Gm.  of  the  oil  be  shaken  for  a few  seconds  with  1 Gm.  of  a cold  mixture  of  sul- 
phuric acid  (sp.  gr.  1.830)  and  nitric  acid  (sp.  gr.  1.250)  and  1 Gm.  of  carbon  disulphide, 
no  green  or  red  layer  should  separate  on  standing.  Foreign  oils  give  the  tints  mentioned 
above.  If  10  Cc.  of  the  oil  be  shaken  frequently,  during  two  hours,  with  a freshly  pre- 
pared solution  of  1 Gm.  of  mercury  in  3 Cc.  of  nitric  acid,  a perfectly  solid  mass  of  pale 
straw  color  will  result.  If  6 Gm.  of  the  oil  be  thoroughly  shaken,  in  a test-tube,  for  about 
two  minutes,  with  a mixture  of  1.5  Gm.  of  nitric  acid  and  0.5  Gm.  of  water,  then  heated 
in  a bath  of  boiling  water  for  not  more  than  fifteen  minutes,  the  oil  should  retain  a light 
yellow  color,  not  becoming  orange  or  reddish-brown,  and,  after  standing  at  the  ordinary  < 
temperature  for  about  twelve  hours,  it  should  form  a perfectly  solid,  light  yellowish  mass 
(absence  of  appreciable  quantities  of  cotton-seed  oil  and  most  other  seed  oils).  If  5 Cc.  ‘ 
of  the  oil  be  thoroughly  shaken,  in  a test-tube,  with  5 Cc.  of  the  alcoholic  solution  of  silver 
nitrate  (prepared  by  dissolving  1 Gm.  of  silver  nitrate  in  100  Cc.  of  deodorized  alcohol, 
and  adding  0.  5 Cc.  of  nitric  acid),  and  the  mixture  heated  for  about  five  minutes  in  a 
water-bath,  the  oil  should  retain  its  original  pale  yellow  color,  not  becoming  reddish  or 
brown,  nor  should  any  dark  color  be  produced  at  the  line  of  contact  of  the  two  liquids 
(absence  of  more  than  about  5 per  cent,  of  cotton-seed  oil  and  of  many  other  oils).  If  5 
Cc.  of  the  oil  be  shaken,  in  a test-tube,  with  5 Cc.  of  concentrated  hydrochloric  acid,  the 
latter  should  not  acquire  a green  color,  and,  on  the  subsequent  addition  of  about  0.5  Gm. 
of  sugar,  and  again  shaking  the  mixture,  no  violet  or  crimson  tint  should  be  produced  in 
the  acid  layer  within  fifteen  minutes  (absence  of  sesamum  oil).” — U.  S.  “ If  15  parts 
of  olive  oil  be  well  shaken  with  2 parts  of  water  and  3 parts  of  fuming  nitric  (nitroso- 
nitric)  acid,  the  mixture  should  be  whitish,  not  red  or  brown  (oils  of  ground-nut,  benne- 
seed,  and  cotton-seed),  and  in  one  or  two  hours  should  separate  into  a slightly-colored 
liquid  and  a white  solid  mass.” — P.  G.  The  elaidin  test  is  conveniently  applied  in  the 
manner  described  under  Olea  Pinguia,  where  also  the  result  with  different  oils  is  stated 
and  the  colors  produced  by  sulphuric  acid  and  other  reagents.  If  5 drops  of  the  oil  are 
let  fall  upon  a thin  layer  of  sulphuric  acid  in  a flat-bottomed  capsule,  no  brown-red  or 
dark-brown  zone  should  be  developed  within  three  minutes  at  the  line  of  contact  of  the 
two  liquids  (absence  of  appreciable  quantities  of  other  fixed  oils  of  similar  physical 
properties). 

According  to  Cailletet  (1877),  the  greenish  color  is  occasionally  produced  by  the  pres- 


OLEUM  OLIVJE. 


1141 


ence  of  copper,  in  which  case  the  oil  will  be  colored  brown  on  being  agitated  with  an 
ethereal  solution  of  pyrogallol. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Oleum  chlorinatum,  Chlorinated  oil , is  prepared  by 
Dr.  L.  WoliF  by  passing  chlorine  gas  into  olive  oil ; it  is  a yellowish  oil,  and  lias  been 
used  in  itch  and  other  cutaneous  diseases.  According  to  Lefort  (1852,  1853),  olive  oil, 
thus  treated,  contains  chlorine  substitution-products,  the  chloroleic  acid  having  the 
formula  C18CLh3,0.,,  a brown  color,  the  specific  gravity  1.082,  and  containing  20.6  per 
cent,  of  chlorine. 

Olea  cocta,  Olea  Infusa. — Oleoinfusions,  Oleols,  E. ; Oleoles,  lElaeoles,  Huiles  medi- 
cinales,  Fr. ; Gekochte  Oele,  G. — These  preparations  were  formerly  much  employed  in 
Europe,  and  several  of  them  have  retained  a place  in  the  French  Codex.  They  are  made 
from  herbs  or  flowers,  either  aromatic  or  narcotic,  by  digesting  1 part  of  the  dry  drug  in 
10  parts  of  olive  oil,  or  by  boiling  1 part  of  fresh  narcotic  herb  in  2 parts  of  olive  oil 
until  the  moisture  has  been  dissipated.  Ointment  of  stramonium  was  formerly  prepared 
in  a similar  manner. 

Action  and  Uses. — From  time  immemorial  olive  oil  formed  an  important  article  of 
food  in  countries  where  the  olive  tree  flourishes,  and  was  used  as  butter  is  elsewhere.  In 
the  dose  of  one  or  two  ounces  it  acts  as  a very  mild  laxative,  but  it  is  seldom  administered 
for  this  purpose  except  to  infants,  for  whom  a sufficient  dose  is  a teaspoonful.  It  has 
been  used  as  an  antidote  to  the  poisonous  effects  of  cantharides , and  is  probably  efficient 
by  protecting  the  stomach,  as  well  as  by  occasioning  vomiting,  notwithstanding  the 
theoretical  objection  that  cantharidin  is  soluble  in  sweet  oil.  It  has  been  extensively  and 
efficiently  employed  by  workmen  in  white-lead  factories  to  keep  the  bowels  free  and  pre- 
vent the  absorption  of  the  metal.  Large  doses  of  olive  oil  have  seemed  to  cause  the 
discharge  of  gall-stones , and  in  proof  of  the  statement  a great  number  of  bodies  resembling 
these  concretions  has  been  found  in  the  stools.  On  examination,  however,  they  were  often 
found  to  consist  of  the  partially  saponified  oil  ( Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour .,  Sept.  1881, 
p.  261).  This  explanation  has  been  confirmed  both  by  chemical  .and  physical  examina- 
tion (Med.  Record , xxxiii.,  215 ; xxxv.,  599 ; Med.  Mews,  lii.,  519),  as  well  as  by  the 
inordinate  number  of  concretions  alleged  to  have  been  evacuated  under  the  use  of 
the  oil,  such  as  60,  of  which  6 were  as  large  as  an  olive  (Med.  Record , xxxiii,  217, 
or,  again,  629;  (Med.  Mews,  lii.,  696).  That  the  remedy  is  sometimes  efficient  does  not, 
however,  admit  of  doubt,  since  the  concretions  passed  in  some  instances  consisted  of 
biliary  solids,  as  reported  by  Rosenberg,  who  also  proved  experimentally  that  oil  is  the 
most  powerful  stimulant  of  the  secretion  of  bile,  which  he  regards  as  the  immediate 
agent  for  carrying  away  the  concretions  (Ther.  Monatsh. , iii.,  542).  Large  doses  of  oil 
are  required,  say  from  Gm.  124—126  (4-6  fl.  oz.),  in  divided  doses  within  from  one  to 
four  hours.  It  may  be  made  into  emulsion  with  yolk  of  egg  and  flavored  with  essence 
of  peppermint.  Olive  oil  is  used  in  some  places  in  Europe  to  prevent  the  poisonous  effects 
of  vipers'  bites,  both  internally  and  locally,  and  by  the  latter  method  it  is  familiarly  applied 
to  allay  the  swelling  and  pain  of  insects'  bites  and  stings.  It  is  often  poured  into  the 
auditory  canal  to  destroy  insects  concealed  therein,  and  large  doses  of  it  have  been  known 
to  kill  and  expel  a tsenia.  Externally,  it  is  a convenient  and  efficient  protective  and 
lenitive  for  superficial  wounds,  excoriations , burns , bruises,  and  sprains.  In  the  two  last- 
mentioned  injuries  it  should  be  applied  warm,  and  in  them  also  it  affords  a convenient 
vehicle  for  the  application  of  camphor,  morphine,  and  various  other  anodynes  or  stimu- 
lants. The  same  is  true  in  regard  to  several  local  inflammations,  especially  earache. 

ith  lime-water  it  forms  the  liniment  so  useful  in  burns  (Linimentum  Calais').  Anciently, 
the  custom  of  anointing  the  body  with  oil  was  practised,  as  it  still  is  in  Oriental  countries, 
alter  warm  bathing,  and  also  as  a protective  against  the  plague.  It  is  now  occasionally 
used  to  moderate  excessive  sweating,  and  has  even  been  imagined  to  have  some  influence 
on  the  progress  of  pulmonary  phthisis  when  given  with  the  addition  of  6 per  cent,  of 
oleic  acid.  It  was  used  by  the  ancients  to  anoint  the  skin  in  various  affections  of  the 
chest.  Warm  oil  is  a soothing  and  efficient  application,  when  made  with  appropriate 
pressure  or  friction,  in  lessening  the  pain  and  swelling  of  enlarged  glands,  particularly 
when  they  are  actively  engorged,  as  the  mammae  during  pregnancy  and  after  parturition. 
It  is  sometimes  injected  into  the  rectum  in  dysentery  and  to  destroy  rectal  ascarides 
(oxyures),  and  it  is  habitually  employed  to  facilitate  the  introduction  of  sounds,  catheters, 
bougies,  specida , pessaries , etc.,  into  the  natural  cavities  of  the  body.  It  was  an  old  custom 
to  dip  cutting  surgical  instruments  in  hot  oil  before  incising  the  flesh. 

The  dose  of  olive  oil  as  a laxative  is  Gm.  32-64  (fgj— ij)  for  adults,  and  for  infants 
Gm.  4-8  (faj-ij). 


1142 


OLEUM  PALMJE.— OLEUM  PH OSPHORA TUM. 


OLEUM  PALM^E.-Palm  Oil. 

Huile  (JLeurre)  de  palme,  Fr. ; Palmol , Palmbutter , G. ; Aceite  de  palma,  Sp. 

From  the  fruit  of  Elaeis  guineensis,  Jacquin. 

Nat.  Ord. — Palmse. 

Origin. — The  oil-palm  is  a tall  tree  indigenous  to  Western  Africa  and  introduced  into 
other  tropical  countries.  It  has  large  pinnate  leaves  with  spiny  petioles  and  long  narrow 
linear  leaflets.  The  fruit  is  a yellow  mottled  drupe  about  25  Mm.  (one  inch)  long,  and 
contains  a leathery  very  oily  sarcocarp,  from  which  the  fat  is  obtained  by  pressure  or  by 
boiling  with  water.  The  kernel  yields  likewise  a bland  oil  which  is  white  and  melts  at 
25°  C.  (77°  F.). 

Properties. — Palm  oil  is  solid  at  low  temperatures,  butyraceous,  of  a reddish-yellow 
color,  and  when  fresh  of  an  agreeable  violet-like  odor,  and  fuses  at  27°  C.  (80.6°  F.). 
On  keeping,  it  becomes  lighter  in  color  and  acquires  a rancid  odor,  a portion  of  the  fat 
being  decomposed  into  free  acids  and  glycerin,  the  fusing-point  rising  at  the  same  time, 
sometimes  to  42°  C.  (107.6°  F.).  When  rapidly  heated  to  240°  C.  (464°  F.)  it  is  bleached. 
It  is  partly  soluble  in  alcohol,  but  entirely  so  in  ether.  Its  specific  gravity  is  .945. 

Composition. — It  consists  chiefly  of  tripalmitin  and  triolein,  and  contains  a peculiar 
ferment,  inducing  its  decomposition.  It  is  largely  used  in  the  preparation  of  soap  ; and 
to  obtain  the  latter  white,  the  oil  is  bleached  by  treating  it  with  a solution  of  potassium 
dichromate  and  adding  sufficient  sulphuric  and  hydrochloric  acids  to  form  potassium  sul- 
phate and  chromic  chloride. 

Other  Palm  Oils. — (See  also  Oleum  cocos.)  Macaja  Butter,  obtained  from  the  seeds  of  Cocos 
aculeata,  Jacquin , of  tropical  America,  has  a yellowish  color  and  a violet-like  odor. 

Tucum  Oil,  from  the  fruit  of  Astrocaryum  vulgare,  Martius , of  South  America,  has  a bright- 
red  color  and  an  agreeable  odor. 

Action  and  Uses. — Palm  oil  has  hardly  any  peculiar  virtues  to  distinguish  it  from 
other  vegetable  oils,  except  that  it  is  less  drying  and  more  emollient.  It  is  supposed 
to  be  especially  adapted  for  bathing  bruises  and  sprains.  Its  agreeable  odor  recom- 
mends it. 

OLEUM  PHOSPHOR ATUM,  U,  S.,  Br.,  F.  Cod,— Phosphorated  Oil. 

Huile  phosphor ee,  Liniment  phosphor e,  Fr. ; Phosphorhaltiges  Oel,  Gr. 

Preparation. — Phosphorus.  1 Gm.  ; Expressed  Oil  of  Almond,  Ether,  each,  a suffi- 
cient quantity,  to  make  100  Gm.  Introduce  a sufficient  quantity  of  expressed  oil  of  almond 
into  a flask,  heat  it  on  a sand-bath  to  250°  C.  (482°  F.),  and  keep  it  at  that  temperature 
for  fifteen  minutes.  Then  allow  it  to  cool,  and  filter.  Put  90  Gm.  of  the  filtered  oil, 
together  with  the  phosphorus,  previously  well  dried  by  filtering  paper,  into  a dry,  tared 
bottle  capable  of  holding  about  120  Cc.,  insert  the  stopper,  and  heat  the  bottle  in  a water- 
bath  until  the  phosphorus  melts.  Then  agitate  it  until  the  phosphorus  is  dissolved,  allow 
it  to  cool  and  add  enough  ether  to  make  the  mixture  weigh  100  Gm.  Lastly,  transfer 
the  solution  to  small  glass-stoppered  vials,  which  should  be  completely  filled  and  kept  in 
a cool  and  dark  place. — U.  S. 

The  process  of  the  British  Pharmacopoeia  differs  from  this  in  heating  the  almond  oil 
only  to  149°  C.  (300°  F.),  and  in  directing  16  grains  of  phosphorus  to  be  dissolved  in  4 
fluidounces  (Imperial)  of  the  oil  at  a temperature  of  about  82°  C.  (180°  F.).  The 
U.  S.  P.  has  adopted  Mehu’s  process  (1868),  who,  however,  directs  heating  the  oil  for  15 
minutes  to  150°  C.  (302°  F.),  and  then  to  raise  the  heat  for  10  minutes  to  250°  C.  At 
first,  air  and  moisture  are  given  off ; afterward  certain  organic  matters  are  volatilized  or 
destroyed  ; the  oil  becomes  nearly  colorless,  and  on  cooling  separates  a little  flocculent 
matter,  which  is  separated  by  filtration.  A piece  of  translucent  phosphorus  is  then 
weighed  out,  well  dried,  and  dissolved  as  directed.  The  French  Codex  directs ‘phosphorus 
1 Gm.,  almond  oil  95  Gm.,  ether  4 Gm.  The  oil  contains  1 per  cent.  ( U.  $.,  F.  Cod .), 
(.99  per  cent.  Br.)  of  phosphorus,  the  solubility  of  which  in  fixed  oils  is  generally  stated 
to  be  1 in  100.  According  to  Dr.  Squibb  (1876),  phosphorus  should  be  dissolved  in  oil 
only  in  an  atmosphere  of  carbon  dioxide,  and  at  once  transferred  into  small  dry  and  well- 
stoppered  bottles ; he  recommends  to  thus  prepare  a solution  of  well-dried  phosphorus  1 
part  in  cod-liver  oil  99  parts. 

Properties. — Phosphorated  oil  is  a clear  yellowish  oil  having  the  odor  of  phosphorus 
and  of  ether,  the  presence  of  which  prevents  phosphorescence  in  the  dark.  The  phos- 


OLEUM  PICIS  LIQUID M— OLEUM  PIMENTM 


1143 


phorated  oil  of  the  British  Pharmacopoeia  is  strongly  phosphorescent  , and  produces  white 
vapors  in  contact  with  air,  due  to  the  oxidation  of  phosphorus. 

Action  and  Uses. — In  so  far  as  phosphorus  is  useful  as  a medicine  it  may  be  con- 
veniently administered  in  this  oil  in  the  dose  of  1-10  minims.  It  is  very  convenient  as 
an  addition  to  cod-liver  oil  in  cases  of  scrofula , chronic  phthisis,  paralysis  without  central 
lesion  of  substance,  sexual  debility , and  diseases  referred  to  under  Phosphorus. 


OLEUM  PICIS  LIQUIDS,  V.  Oil  of  Tar. 

Huile  (Essence)  de  goudron , Fr. ; Theerol , Pechol , G.  ; Esencia  de  alquitran , Sp. 

A volatile  oily  liquid  distilled  from  wood-tar. 

Preparation. — Wood-tar  is  subjected  to  distillation,  and  that  fraction  of  the  distil- 
late which  is  lighter  than  water  collected  by  itself.  (See  Creosotum  and  Pix  Liquida). 

Properties. — Oil  of  tar,  recently  distilled,  is  colorless,  but  gradually  darkens,  becom- 
ing yellowish,  brownish,  and  dark  red-brown,  and  depositing  a black  product.  The  oil 
has  a strong  tar-like  odor  and  taste,  an  acid  reaction,  and  a density  of  about  0.970  at  15° 
C.  (59°  F.)  ; these  properties  are,  however,  subject  to  variation  from  differences  in  the 
composition  of  the  tar.  Alcohol  readily  dissolves  it,  yielding  an  acid  solution. 

Composition. — The  oil  is  a mixture  of  various  hydrocarbons,  of  acetic  and  other 
acids,  and  of  undetermined  empyreumatic  products  present  in  tar ; prepared  from  tar  of 
coniferous  woods,  the  oil  consists  largely  of  oil  of  turpentine. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  preparation  has  the  same  action  as  tar  itself,  and,  like  it, 
is  used  largely  in  the  treatment  of  squamous  and  some  other  diseases  of  the  skin.  In 
Europe  the  oil  of  cade,  obtained  from  Juniperus  oxycedrus,  is  held  in  higher  esteem  than 
oil  of  common  tar.  Oil  of  tar  may  be  applied  directly  to  the  affected  part,  more  or  less 
diluted  with  some  bland  oil,  or  in  an  ointment.  It  has  the  advantage  over  tar  ointments 
of  being  less  unsightly  and  less  destructive  to  clothing. 

OLEUM  PIMENTO,  U.  S,,  Hr, — Oil  of  Pimenta. 

Oil  of  allspice , E. ; Essence  de  piment  de  la  Jama'ique,  Fr.  ; Pimento! , Nelkenpfef- 
ferol , G.  ; Esencia.  de  pimiento  gorda,  Sp. 

The  volatile  oil  distilled  from  the  fruit  of  Eugenia  Pimenta,  De  Candolle  (nat.  ord. 
Myrtaceae). 

Preparation. — Allspice  is  ground,  and  then  distilled  with  water  or  by  means  of 
steam,  the  volatile  oil  coming  over  usually  in  two  fractions — a lighter  and  a heavier  one, 
which  are  mixed.  The  average  yield  appears  to  be  about  4 per  cent.,  but  is  often  much 
lower.  Bonastre  (1827)  states  that  the  seeds  contain  5 per  cent,  and  the  remaining  part 
of  the  fruit  10  per  cent,  of  volatile  oil. 

Properties. — Oil  of  pimenta  is  colorless  or  pale-yellow,  becoming  darker  and  thicker 
by  age.  Its  specific  gravity  is  1.045  to  1.055  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.).  In  taste  and  in 
behavior  to  solvents  and  chemicals,  (alcohol,  test-paper,  ferric  chloride,  potassa,  iodine, 
etc.)  it  closely  resembles  oil  of  cloves  ; its  odor,  however,  is  more  pleasant. 

“With  an  equal  volume  of  alcohol  it  forms  a clear  solution,  which  is  slightly  acid  to 
litmus-paper.  It  also  forms  a clear  solution  with  an  equal  volume  of  glacial  acetic  acid, 
and  a nearly  clear  solution  with  an  equal  volume  of  carbon  disulphide.  When  mixed 
with  an  equal  volume  of  a concentrated  solution  of  sodium  hydroxide,  it  forms  a semi-solid 
mass.  If  2 drops  of  the  oil  be  dissolved  in  4 Cc.  of  alcohol,  and  a drop  of  ferric  chloride 
test-solution  added,  a bright  green  color  will  be  produced ; and  if  the  same  tests  be  made 
with  a drop  of  diluted  ferric  chloride  test-solution,  prepared  by  diluting  the  test-solution 
with  four  times  its  volume  of  water,  a blue  color  will  result,  changing  to  green,  and  soon 
becoming  yellow.  If  1 Cc.  of  the  oil  be  shaken  with  20  Cc.  of  hot  water,  the  water 
should  not  show  more  than  a scarcely  perceptible  acid  reaction  to  litmus-paper.  If,  after 
cooling,  the  liquid  be  passed  through  a wet  filter,  the  clear  filtrate  should  afford,  with  a 
drop  of  ferric  chloride  test-solution,  only  a transient,  grayish-green,  but  not  a blue  or 
violet  color  (absence  of  phenol  or  carbolic  acid).” — U.  S. 

Composition. — Gladstone  has  corroborated  the  observation  of  Bonastre  concerning 
the  presence  of  eugenic  acid  and  the  close  similarity  of  this  oil  to  oil  of  cloves.  L.  C. 
Pettit  (1880)  obtained  61  per  cent,  of  eugenol.  which  became  red,  and  afterward  purple, 
with  sulphuric  acid. 


1144 


OLEUM  niCINL 


Uses. — The  oil  of  pimenta  is  used  for  the  same  purposes,  local  and  general,  as  other 
aromatic  stimulants.  The  dose  is  from  Glm.  0.10-0.30  (2  to  6 drops). 


OLEUM  RICINI,  U.  S.,  Br.,  P.  G.- Castor  Oil. 

Oleum  e semini  ricini,  F.  Cod.;  Oleum  Palmse  Christi. — Huile  de  ricin,  Fr. ; Ricinusbl , 
Gr. ; Aceite  de  ricino , Sp. 

The  fixed  oil  expressed  from  the  seeds  of  Ricinus  communis,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Tri- 
men, Med,.  Plants , 237. 

Nat.  Ord. — Euphorbiaceae. 

Origin. — The  castor-oil  plant  appears  to  be  indigenous  to  Southern  Asia,  but  was 
early  introduced  into  all  tropical  and  subtropical  countries,  in  many  of  which  it  has 
become  naturalized.  It  is  often  cultivated  in  temperate  countries  for  ornament  and  other 
purposes,  remaining  a large  annual.  Numerous  varieties  are  now  known,  differing  from 
one  another  in  size  and  color  of  the  stem  and  foliage,  as  well  as  of  the  fruit  and  seeds. 
The  leaves  are  alternate,  peltate,  palmately  seven-  or  nine-lobed  ; the  inflorescence  is  pani- 
culately  spicate,  terminal,  finally  axillary ; the  flowers  are  monoecious,  apetalous,  the 
staminate  ones  at  the  base  of  the  panicle.  The  fruit  is  a subglobular,  somewhat  triangular, 
and  grooved  tricoccous  capsule,  which  is  sometimes  nearly  smooth,  but  mostly  spinescent; 
each  cell  encloses  a single  oval  or  elliptic  seed,  which  is  from  8 to  16  Mm.  (4  to  f inch) 
long,  4 to  8 Mm.  (4  to  4 inch)  broad,  flattened  on  one  side,  smooth,  shining,  of  a gray 
color  variegated  with  yellowish,  brown,  or  reddish  spots  and  lines,  with  a slightly-raised 
raphe  along  the  flattish  side  and  a prominent  caruncle  near  one  end  ; this,  when  detached, 
leaves  a slight  depression  above  the  hilum.  The  testa  is  hard,  but  brittle;  the  inner 
seed-coat  is  thin,  white,  and  has  a brownish  chalaza  ; the  embryo  is  straight,  white,  has 
broad,  foliaceous  heart-shaped  cotyledons,  and  is  imbedded  in  an  oily  albumen  having  a 
bland  scarcely  acrid  taste. 

Preparation. — Nearly  all  the  castor  oil  which  is  at  the  present  time  consumed  in 
the  United  States  is  manufactured  from  seeds  grown  in  the  country  or  imported.  While 
i-n  the  year  ending  June  30,  1867,  the  importation  of  castor  oil  was  82,800  gallons  and 
of  the  seeds  60,588  bushels,  the  quantities  imported  in  1882  were  904  gallons  and 
2,389,200  pounds  respectively.  The  seeds,  after  having  been  crushed  and  freed  from  the 
integuments,  or  without  removing  the  latter,  are  kiln-dried  and  subjected  to  powerful 
pressure ; the  oil  thus  obtained  is  heated  with  water  to  remove  albuminous  matters,  and 
when  clear  drawn  off  into  barrels  or  other  suitable  vessels.  The  yield  is  stated  to  be 


Fig.  199. 


Ricinis  communis,  Linnl:  fruit,  seed,  and  two  longitudinal  sections  of  seeds,  showing  embryo  and  albumen  ; 

natural  size. 


between  38  and  45  per  cent.,  by  cold  pressure  25  to  30  per  cent.  More  oil,  but  of  inferior 
quality,  is  obtained  by  again  expressing  the  marc  and  using  a higher  temperature  and 
greater  power  ; the  additional  yield  is  6 to  8 per  cent.  The  older  method  of  obtaining  the 
oil  by  boiling  the  seeds  with  water  and  skimming  it  from  the  surface  has  probably  been 
abandoned  in  most  countries.  L.  Boerner  (1876)  extracted  from  the  press-cake  with 
ether  14  per  cent,  of  oil  having  a light-yellow  color,  while  alcohol  dissolved  21  per  cent, 
of  dark  oily  matter. 

Purification. — Cold-pressed  castor  oil  is  nearly  transparent,  and  requires  no  further 
purification.  If  opaque,  the  oil  is  filtered,  either  through  paper  or  felt,  or,  as  recom- 
mended by  Pavesi  (1857),  is  previously  treated  for  several  days  with  1 per  cent,  of  mag- 
nesia and  2.5  per  cent,  of  purified  animal  charcoal ; which  treatment  renders  it  nearly 
colorless  and  inodorous. 

Properties. — Castor  oil  is  viscid,  transparent  or  nearly  so,  almost  colorless  or  pale 
greenish-yellow,  of  a faint,  mild,  mawkish,  but  not  repulsive  odor,  and  a bland,  afterward 
slightly  acrid  and  generally  offensive  taste.  Its  specific  gravity  varies  between  0.950  and 


OLEUM  RICINT. 


1145 


0.970.  At  a low  temperature  it  becomes  thicker,  and  usually  deposits  white  granules  of 
solid  fat ; near — 18°  C.  (0°  F.)  it  congeals  to  a yellowish  mass.  It  is  only  partly  soluble 
in  petroleum  benzin,  yielding  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  a turbid  mixture,  but  at  17°  (65.6°  F.) 
a clear  solution  with  an  equal  volume,  but  is  soluble  in  all  proportions  in  absolute  alcohol, 
ether,  and  glacial  acetic  acid,  and  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  in  about  4 parts  of  alcohol,  spec, 
grav.  0.835.  The  oil  has  a neutral  reaction  to  test-paper,  but  when  exposed  to  the  atmo- 
sphere in  thin  layers  it  becomes  rancid,  has  an  acid  reaction,  and  slowly  dries  to  a trans- 
parent varnish.  In  contact  with  nitrous  acid,  however,  castor  oil  becomes  much  thicker, 
and  finally  congeals,  requiring  for  this  a longer  time  than  the  non-drying  oils.  Polarized 
light  is  by  some  samples  turned  to  the  right,  by  others  to  the  left.  It  commences  to  boil 
at  about  265°  C.  (509°  F.),  yields  an  oily  distillate  containing  cenanthol , C7H140,  and 
oenanthylic  acid , C7H1402,  and  leaves  a black  mass  which  is  soluble  in  potassa.  Castor 
oil,  agitated  with  equal  weights  of  water  and  nitric  acid,  yields  a whitish  mixture,  turn- 
ing yellow  in  the  presence  of  nitrous  acid  ; but  when  heated  with  dilute  nitric  acid  or  with 
potassium  bichromate  and  sulphuric  acid,  oenanthylic  acid  is  obtained.  The  oil  is  very 
readily  saponified  by  alkalies. 

Composition. — 1.  The  Oil.  Castor  oil  is  composed  of  several  fats,  the  acids  of 
which  have  been  the  subject  of  repeated  investigations.  The  solid,  fatty  acid  is  probably 
identical  with,  or  closely  related  to , palmitic  acid  ; the  liquid  one  has  been  named  ricinic 
or  ricinoleic  acid , C18H3403,  and  forms  a colorless  or  wine-yellow,  inodorous  liquid,  of  a 
disagreeable  acrid  taste,  solidifying  below  0°  C.  (32°  F.)  to  a granular  mass,  and  under 
the  influence  of  nitrous  acid  is  converted  into  ridnelaidic  acid , which  has  the  same  com- 
position and  crystallizes  in  silky  needles.  These  acids  differ  from  oleic  acid  in  containing 
one  more  atom  of  oxygen,  but  they  do  not,  like  the  latter,  yield  sebacic  acid  among  their 
products  of  destructive  distillation.  CEnanthol  or  cenanth-aldehyde , is  a thin,  colorless, 
strongly  refractive  liquid,  having  an  agreeable  odor  and  boiling  at  154°  C.  (309.2°  F.). 
(Enanthylie  or  oenanthic  acid  is  oily,  of  a codfish-like  odor,  and,  dissolved  in  strong  alco- 
hol and  treated  with  hydrochloric  acid  gas,  yields  oenanthic  ether , C2H5.C7H1302,  which  has 
a pleasant  fruity  odor,  a specific  gravity  of  0.873,  boils  at  188°  C.  (370.4°  F.),  and  is 
one  of  the  constituents  of  wine.  The  acrid  principle  of  castor  oil  has  not  been  isolated. 

2.  The  Seeds.  Besides  the  oil,  of  which  the  seeds  contain  about  one-half  their 
weight,  a considerable  amount  of  protein  compounds,  some  sugar,  and  mucilage  are  met 
with  in  them.  Among  the  proteids  is  one  which  H.  Bower  (1854)  regards  as  related  to 
emuhrin , inasmuch  as  it  generates,  with  amygdalin,  the  odor  of  hydrocyanic  acid.  This 
observation  was  confirmed  by  Boerner  (1876).  The  proteid  is  obtained  by  agitating  the 
emulsion  of  the  seeds  with  ether  and  precipitating  the  aqueous  liquid  with  alcohol. 

In  1864,  Tuson  announced  the  discovery  of  an  alkaloid,  ricinine , which  is  isolated  by 
preparing  an  extract  with  boiling  water,  freeing  it  from  the  fat,  exhausting  with  alcohol, 
filtering  when  cool,  and  crystallizing  by  concentrating  the  liquid.  It  is  described  as 
crystallizing  in  rectangular  prisms  and  scales,  possessing  a slight  bitter-almond  taste, 
being  sublimable,  and  containing  nitrogen.  Boerner  (1876)  found  it  necessary  to  treat 
the  alcoholic  liquid  with  magnesia ; the  crystals  obtained  by  him  resembled  in  behavior 
those  of  Tuson,  but  did  not  react  with  the  usual  reagents  for  alkaloids.  Wayne  (1874) 
isolated  apparently  the  same  principle  from  the  leaves,  and  opposed  its  claim  to  be  con- 
sidered an  alkaloid.  Werner  (1870)  regarded  it  as  a magnesium  salt. 

The  seeds,  freed  from  oil  by  pressure,  are  violently  purgative,  but  the  principle  to 
which  this  action  is  due  has  not  been  isolated.  On  mixing  the  marc  with  water  and 
allowing  the  mixture  to  ferment,  Boerner  obtained  butyric  and  probably  other  volatile 
acids,  but  no  acetic  acid.  These  results  were  confirmed  by  Baab  (1879).  Fliickiger 
obtained  10.7  per  cent,  of  ash  from  the  testa,  but  only  3.5  per  cent,  from  the  exsiccated 
kernel  of  the  seed. 

Tests. — Soluble  in  an  equal  volume  of  alcohol,  and,  in  all  proportions,  in  absolute 
alcohol,  or  glacial  acetic  acid  ; also  soluble,  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  in  three  times  its  volume 
of  a mixture  of  19  volumes  of  alcohol  and  1 volume  of  water,  equivalent  to  alcohol  of 
about  the  specific  gravity  0.833  (absence  of  more  than  about  5 per  cent,  of  most  other 
fixed  oils).  If  3 Cc.  of  the  oil  be  shaken  for  a few  minutes  with  3 Cc.  of  carbon  disul- 
phide and  1 Cc.  of  sulphuric  acid,  the  mixture  should  not  acquire  a blackish-brown  color 
(absence  of  many  foreign  oils).” — U.  S . 

Allied  Oil. — Tambor  Oil  of  Central  America,  has  purgative  effects,  but  does  not  gripe  like 
castor  oil.  Hemsley  (1882)  ascertained  it  to  be  prepared  from  the  seeds  of  Omphalea  oleifera. 
Hemsley  (nat.  ord.  Euphorbiaceae). 

Action  and  Uses. — Castor  oil  derives  its  purgative  properties  chiefly  from  an  acrid 


1146 


OLEUM  niCINL 


principle  contained  in  castor  beans,  which,  when  taken  designedly  or  accidentally,  have 
repeatedly  occasioned  violent  pain,  vomiting,  purging,  collapse,  and  even  death,  after  which 
evidences  of  severe  inflammation  have  been  found  in  the  mucous  membrane  of  the  stom- 
ach and  intestines.  Later  examples  of  severe  symptoms  caused  by  them  may  be  found 
( Therap . Gaz .,  x.  214;  xi.  503:  Med.  Mews,  xlix.  304  ; lii.  364).  An  acrid  principle  exists 
also  in  the  leaves  of  the  plant.  When  castor  oil  was  injected  into  a vein  its  taste  was 
presently  perceived  in  the  mouth,  and  there  followed  nausea,  eructation,  rigidity  of  the 
muscles  of  the  tongue,  loss  of  speech,  anxiety,  and  faintness,  with  general  dulness  and 
depression.  At  the  end  of  three  hours  an  unsuccessful  motion  to  evacuate  the  bowels 
occurred,  followed  by  feverishness  and  an  indisposition  of  several  weeks’  duration.  Given 
to  nursing  mothers,  it  invariably  purges  their  infants.  Rubbed  upon  the  skin  of  the 
abdomen  in  young  children,  it  has  procured  one  or  two  loose  stools.  Taken  in  medicinal 
doses,  it  sometimes  nauseates,  seldom  gripes,  but  is  apt  to  cause  a tendency  to  sleep. 
The  first  evacuations  which  follow  are  generally  liquid,  and  contain  more  or  less  of  the 
oil,  either  unchanged  or  converted  into  cheesy  flakes  or  a soap-like  scum  floating  on 
the  surface  of  the  dejection.  It  has  long  been  observed  that  when  used  as  an  habitual 
laxative  the  dose  may  be  progressively  diminished.  Indeed,  unless  this  is  done  it  is  very 
apt  to  occasion  constipation  with  all  its  attendant  evils.  In  a case  of  hydraemia  with  ven- 
ous pulsation  castor  oil,  given  by  the  mouth,  did  not  purge,  but  exuded  through  the 
skin. 

Castor  oil  is  used  as  a purgative  whenever  the  intention  is  simply  to  overcome  constipa- 
tion, or,  on  the  other  hand,  to  cure  diarrhoea  depending  upon  the  presence  of  irritating 
substances  in  the  bowel,  or  upon  congestion,  irritation,  and  excessive  secretion  produced 
by  cold.  In  not  a few  cases,  especially  of  infantile  diarrhoea,  the  intestine  is  irritated  at 
once  by  the  presence  of  undigested  food  and  by  the  decomposed  secretions  of  its  lining 
membrane  ; the  patients  are  distressed  by  colic,  tenesmus,  and  frequent  stools,  which  are 
watery,  mucous,  and  bloody  in  different  proportions  ; the  mouth  is  apthous  and  the  anus 
inflamed.  In  such  cases  the  first  step  shoul  be  thoroughly  to  cleanse  the  intestine  by 
means  of  castor  oil  in  small  and  repeated  doses,  preceded  or  not  by  a small  dose  of  calo- 
mel or  of  mercury  with  chalk.  The  rest  of  the  treatment  may  be  confided  to  medicines 
of  a different  kind  and  to  dietetic  regimen.  Similar  remarks  apply  to  a large  group  of  cases 
in  which  constipation  is  the  efficient  cause  of  urticaria , erythema,  roseola,  and  other  dis- 
eases of  the  skin,  and  also  of  follicular  affections  af  the  tonsils  and  pharynx.  Indeed,  this 
condition,  as  a cause  or  aggravation  of  brain,  lung,  heart  and  liver  disorders,  is  often 
more  safely  relieved  by  castor  oil  than  by  other  purgatives.  This  purgative  has  the 
advantage  over  most  others  of  analogous  qualities  that  it  has  no  tendency  to  exhaust  the 
strength.  Hence  it  is  most  used  during  pregnancy , and  especially  immediately  before 
labor.  There  is  a popular  notion  that  it  tends  to  relax  the  maternal  organs.  Castor  oil 
has  been  highly  recommended  in  colica  picionum,  or  Poitou  colic,  produced  by  acid  drinks 
containing  lead,  and  in  colica  pictorum,  or  painter’s  colic,  caused  by  the  habitual  absorp- 
tion of  the  metal.  In  the  former  affection  it  affords  prompt  relief ; in  the  latter  it  has 
no  superiority  over  other,  and  especially  saline,  cathartics.  It  sometimes  suffices  to 
expel  lumbricoid  worms,  but  cannot  be  at  all  depended  upon  for  the  removal  of  teemse 
unless  they  are  previously  killed  by  a proper  taenicide.  In  the  forming  stage  of  laryngeal 
or  bronchial  inflammatian  a laxative  dose  of  castor  oil  is  far  superior  to  any  other  evacu- 
ant  in  promoting  the  bronchial  secretion  and  thereby  tending  to  hasten  the  cure.  It  is 
usually  given  after  parturition  when  milk  fever  threatens,  and  later  when  mammary 
abscesses  arise.  It  is  also  commonly  prescribed  after  wounds  and  surgical  operations  to 
mitigate  traumatic  fever  ; it  is  said  to  palliate  the  pain  caused  by  renal  calculi.  The  local 
uses  of  castor  oil  were  mainly  suggested  by  the  custom  among  African  aborigines  and 
their  American  descendants  of  applying  castor-leaves  to  the  mammae  to  excite  the  flow 
of  milk.  They  produce  a slight  irritation  of  the  skin.  A fluid  extract  prepared  from  the 
leaves  and  applied  in  the  same  manner  is  said  to  have  a like  effect,  and  a decoction  has 
been  used  for  the  cure  of  amenorrhoea.  Elsewhere  abundant  illustrations  of  this  state- 
ment may  be  found  (Stille,  Therapeutics , 4th  ed.,  ii.  504),  and  more  recently  (1880) 
Boucher  and  Fonssagrives  have  claimed  the  re-establishment  of  the  secretion  ot  milk  by 
bathing  the  breasts  with  a decoction  of  the  leaves,  after  which  a poultice  made  of  the 
same  leaves  was  applied  to  the  nipples  ( Phila . Med.  Times , x.  415).  On  the  other  hand, 
it  is  alleged  that  the  internal  use  of  castor  oil  arrests  the  secretion  of  milk,  and  that  for 
this  reason  there  is  a prejudice  against  using  it  before  or  during  the  pueperal  state  by  the 
French  peasant  women.  This  notion  is  confirmed  by  Mr.  Shelby  ( Practitioner , xxxv. 
101 ).  The  same  practitioner  also  believes  that  it  palliates  night-sweats  and  engorgement  of 


OLEUM  ROSJE. 


1147 


the  liver.  It  is  said  that  the  daily  application  of  castor  oil  to  warts,  accompanied  with 
friction,  will  remove  these  excrescences  in  from  two  to  six  weeks  (Dumm).  The  oil  enters 
into  numerous  liniments,  etc.  for  the  cure  of  alopecia.  Of  these  one  of  the  best  is  com- 
posed of  suet  3ij  ; castor  oil  3vj  ; gallic  acid  ^ss.  Mix,  and  scent  with  essence  of  vanilla. 
Castor  oil  is  often  prescribed  in  emulsion  with  yelk  of  egg,  mucilage,  etc.,  but  its  activity 
is  thereby  diminished.  Its  taste  may  be  disguised  by  giving  with  it  an  equal  quantity 
of  glycerin  to  which  a few  drops  of  oil  of  cinnamon  have  been  added.  The  glycerin  has 
been  thought  to  increase  its  laxative  powers.  It  should  not  be  taken  in  milk,  coffee,  hot 
soup,  or  any  other  articles  of  food,  lest  they  become  repugnant  afterward.  If  the  mouth 
and  fauces  are  washed  with  an  alcoholic  liquid,  or  even  with  glycerin,  the  oil  will  not 
adhere,  and  therefore  will  not  excite  disgust ; or  it  may  be  floated  upon  fresh  orange-juice 
in  a wine-glass,  and  covered  with  another  layer  of  the  juice,  and  so  tossed  down  the  throat 
without  its  taste  being  perceived.  Probably  the  best  expedient  of  all  is  to  envelop  the 
oil  with  the  froth  of  beer,  ale  or  porter  in  a wineglass ; it  may  then  be  swallowed  without 
even  its  presence  being  detected.  The  average  dose  of  castor  oil  for  an  adult  is  Gm. 
16-32  (^ss-j),  taken  at  once  or  in  separate  portions  according  to  the  nature  of  the  case. 
The  dose  for  an  infant  is  about  Gm.  4 (f^i).  For  an  enema  Gm.  32-64  (fgi-ij),  may  be 
given  in  i pint  of  mucilage  or  soap  and  water. 

Oil  or  Anda  Assu,  a product  of  Brazil,  closely  resembles  castor  oil  in  its  operation. 
The  seeds  are  said  to  have  been  used  from  a remote  period  as  a purgative ; the  oil  acts 
thoroughly  and  gently  in  doses  of  Gm.  8-12  (gii-iij),  but  in  larger  quantities  is  apt  to 
purge  harshly  and  profusely.  A griping  principle  is  said  to  reside  in  the  embryo  and  the 
skin  of  the  seed,  both  of  which  should  be  removed  in  preparing  an  emulsion  of  the  seeds. 
The  oil  has  not  the  nauseous  taste  of  castor  oil,  and  does  not  adhere  so  closely  to  the 
palate  ( Edinh . Med.  Jour.,  xxvii,  556,  646). 

OLEUM  ROS^E,  JJ,  S P.  G. — Oil  (Attar  or  Otto)  of  Roses. 

Oleum  rosarum.—Huile  volatile  ( Essence ) de  rose,  Fr. ; Rosenol , G. ; Esencia  de  rosa , Sp. 

The  volatile  oil  distilled  from  the  fresh  flowers  of  Rosa  damascena,  Mueller. 

Nat.  Ord. — Rosaceae,  Roseae. 

Origin  and  Production. — Roses  are  largely  cultivated  in  India  and  various  parts 
of  Northern  Africa  for  the  production  of  rose-water  and  attar,  which,  however,  are  con- 
sumed in  those  countries.  Large  quantities  of  rose-water  are  distilled  in  Southern 
France,  but  little  oil  is  obtained  there.  Commerce  is  almost  exclusively  supplied  with  oil 
of  rose  from  the  southern  slope  of  the  Balkan  Mountains  in  Roumelia,  the  principal  dep6t 
being  the  town  of  Kizanlik.  The  species  of  rose  cultivated  in  that  district,  according  to 
Baur  (1867),  is  a variety  of  Rosa  damascena,  Miller,  which  grows  to  the  height  of  over 
1.8  M.  (6  feet)  and  is  raised  in  hedge-like  rows.  The  flowers  appear  in  May  and  June, 
and  are  collected  before  sunrise  for  distillation  on  the  same  day.  The  still  used  is  made 
of  copper,  conical  in  shape,  and  has  its  globular  head  connected  with  a straight  tin  tube 
passing  through  a tub  filled  with  water.  The  charge  for  each  still  is  about  10  okes  (or 
27  pounds)  of  flowers  and  20  okes  of  river-water,  and  the  distillation  is  completed  in  2 
hours.  The  distillate  is  again  distilled,  the  first  sixth  being  set  aside  to  allow  the  oil  to 
separate,  while  the  remainder,  together  with  the  water  pressed  from  the  exhausted  flow7ers, 
is  used  for  fresh  roses  in  place  of  water.  The  average  annual  production  of  oil  of  rose 
is  about  4000  pounds,  of  which  quantity  over  10,000  ounces  are  imported  into  the 
United  States;  in  the  year  ending  June  30,  1882,  the  importation  amounted  to  21,933 
ounces. 

Properties. — Oil  of  rose  is  pale-yellow,  transparent,  solidifies  if  slowly  cooled  above 
10°  C.  (50°  F.)  to  a perfectly  transparent  mass  composed  of  scale-like  crystals,  which  on 
rapid  cooling  are  narrow,  feathery,  resembling  prisms,  and  fuse  again  at  a somewdiat 
higher  temperature  (at  12°-15°  C.  = 53.6°-59°  F.,  P.  G.).  The  congealing-  and  fusing- 
points  vary  to  some  extent;  the  former  is  given  by  Baur  at  between  11°  and  16°  C. 
(51.8°  and  60.8°  F.);  the  latter,  by  Hanbury  (1859),  as  lying  between  16.1  ° and  18.3° 
C.  (61°  and  65°  F.),  and  for  English  oil  of  rose  was  found  as  high  as  32.8°  C.  (91°  F.). 
Zeller  observed  the  fusing-point  of  German  oil  of  rose  to  be  even  37.5°  C.  (99.5°  F.). 
Oil  of  rose  has  a neutral  reaction  to  test-paper,  but  Zeller  found  it  to  have  an  acid  reac- 
tion (see  Adulterations  and  Tests  below) ; its  specific  gravity  may  vary  between  about  .84 
(0.87,  Pharmacographia ) and  0.89,  the  Pharmacopoeia  giving  0.865  to  0.880.  The  odorous 
portion  is  quite  freely  soluble  in  alcohol,  while  the  inodorous  stearopten  is  sparingly  solu- 
ble in  this  liquid  ; absolute  alcohol  yields  with  the  oil  a clear  solution  (Baur).  The  oil 


1148 


OLEUM  ROSMARINI. 


has  the  odor  of  the  flowers  in  a high  degree,  and  when  suitably  diluted  with  alcohol  is 
very  fragrant.  Its  taste  is  sweetish  and  rather  mild. 

Composition. — When  oil  of  rose  is  mixed  with  about  3 parts  of  alcohol,  and  the 
undissolved  portion  repeatedly  dissolved  in  a little  ether  and  reprecipitated  by  alcohol,  it 
is  finally  obtained  as  transparent,  iridescent,  inodorous  scales,  which,  according  to  Saussure 
(1820),  Blanchet  (1833),  and  Fliickiger  (1868),  have  the  formula  CnH2n,  fuse  at  35°  C. 
(95°  F.),  and  distil  above  280°  C.  (536°  F.)  (Blanchet).  Fliickiger  gives  the  melting- 
point  at  32.5°  C.  (90.5°  F.)  and  the  boiling-point  at  272°  C.  (521.6°  F.).  This  stearopten 
requires  about  500  parts  of  alcohol  for  solution  (Saussure),  and  is  present  in  Turkish  oil 
of  rose  to  the  amount  of  6 or  7 per  cent.  (Hanbury),  but  in  much  greater  proportion  in 
oil  obtained  from  roses  grown  in  other  parts  of  Europe.  The  elseopten  of  oil  of  rose 
contains  oxygen,  but  its  exact  composition  has  not  been  ascertained;  it  remains  liquid  at 

— 15°  C.  (5°  F.)  (Baur,  1872),  and,  according  to  Gladstone  (1872),  has  the  density  .881 
and  boils  at  216°  C.  (420.8°  F.). 

Adulterations. — The  oil  which  is  mostly  employed  for  adulterating  oil  of  rose  is 
known  in  commerce  as  Turkish  oil  of  geranium,  and  was  shown  by  Hanbury  (1859)  to 
be  entirely  different  from  the  volatile  oil  of  pelargonium.  It  is  obtained  in  India  from 
Andropogon  Schoenanthus,  Linne , known  as  roshe  or  rose  or  rusa  oil , in  Turkey  as  idris  yaghi 
or  as  entershah , and  in  English  commerce  also  as  oil  of  ginger-grass ; it  is  imported  into 
Turkey  for  the  purpose  of  adulterating  oil  of  rose,  but,  according  to  Baur,  first  subjected 
to  a refining  process,  which  consists  in  agitating  the  oil  with  lemon-juice  and  water,  and 
in  bleaching  it  by  exposure  to  the  sun  and  air,  whereby  a little  copper  is  removed,  the 
color  changed  from  brownish  to  pale-yellowish,  and  the  originally  harsh  and  sharp  odor 
rendered  mild ; or  the  oil  is,  in  Boumelia,  sometimes  distilled  with  rose-petals.  The  adulte- 
rations used  outside  of  Turkey  are  oil  of  rhodium , distilled  from  the  root  of  Convolvulus 
(Rhodorrhiza,  Webb)  Scoparius  and  floridus,  Linne,  which  grow  in  the  Canary  Islands; 
and  oil  of  rose-geranium , or  French  oil  of  geranium,  distilled  from  the  cultivated  rose- 
geranium , Pelargonium  roseum,  Willdenoiv.  These  oils  have  an  acid  reaction;  oil  of  rho- 
dium also  a bitter  taste  and  an  odor  resembling  that  of  a mixture  of  rose,  cubeb,  and 
copaiba. 

Tests. — The  most  certain  criteria  of  the  purity  of  the  oil  of  rose  are,  according  to 
Baur — 1,  the  odor,  by  which  oil  of  rose-wood,  sandal-wood,  and  others  may  be  detected; 
2,  the  temperature  at  which  it  congeals  ; and  3,  the  manner  of  crystallizing.  Pure  oil  of 
rose  exposed  to  a temperature  of  12.5°  C.  (54.5°  F.)  should  congeal  in  a few  minutes; 
the  crystals  should  be  transparent,  scaly,  iridescent,  and  float  in  the  liquid,  while  sperma- 
ceti, being  heavier,  is  deposited  as  a solid  opaque  crust.  “If  a solution  of  1 part  of  oil 
of  rose  in  5 parts  of  chloroform  be  diluted  with  20  parts  of  alcohol,  the  mixture  should 
separate  crystalline  scales  and  should  not  redden  moist  litmus-paper.  1 drop  of  oil  of  rose 
triturated  with  sugar  and  afterward  agitated  with  500  Gm.  of  water,  should  impart  to 
the  latter  the  pure  odor  of  rose.” — P.  G.  “ If  to  5 drops  of  the  oil,  contained  in  a test- 
tube,  5 drops  of  concentrated  sulphuric  acid  be  added,  a reddish-brown,  thick  mixture 
will  be  produced,  but  no  white  fumes  or  a tarry  odor  should  be  developed,  and  the  fra- 
grant odor  of  the  oil  should  not  be  destroyed.  If  this  mixture  be  then  shaken  with  2 
Cc.  of  alcohol,  the  resulting  liquid  may  be  turbid,  but  should  be  nearly  colorless,  and  not 
at  once  assume  a red  or  reddish-brown  color  (absence  of  oil  of  ginger-grass  or  Turkish 
oil  of  geranium,  from  Andropogon  Schoenanthus,  Linne  ( nat . ord.  Graminese),  and  oil 
of  rose  geranium,  from  Pelargonium  Radula  ( Cavanilles ),  Aiton , Pelargonium  capitatum 
(Linne),  Aiton,  and  Pelargonium  odoratissimum  (Linne),  Aiton  ; (nat.  ord.  Geraniacea)). 

— U.  X. 

Uses. — It  is  used  in  medicine  exclusively  for  perfuming  ointments  and  lotions. 

OLEUM  ROSMARINI,  77.  8.,  Br.— Oil  of  Rosemary. 

Oleum  anthos. — Huile  volatile  (Essence)  de  romarin , Flood ; Rosmarinol , G. ; Essence  de 
romero , Sp. 

The  volatile  oil  distilled  from  Rosmarinus  officinalis,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Labiatae. 

Preparation. — This  volatile  oil  is  obtained  from  the  flowering-tops,  or  more  fre- 
quently from  the  entire  plant,  by  distilling  them  with  water  or  steam.  Commerce  is 
chiefly  supplied  with  the  oil  of  rosemary  from  Southern  France  and  Italy.  About  20,000 
pounds  of  it  are  annually  imported. 

Properties. — Oil  of  rosemary  is  a colorless  or  yellowish  limpid  liquid,  varying  in 


OLEUM  RUTsE. 


1149 


specific  gravity  between  0.895  and  0.915,  has  a pungent  somewhat  camphoraceous  odor  and 
taste,  boils  at  165°  C.  (329°  F.),  and  is  soluble  in  less  than  its  own  weight  of  80  per 
cent,  alcohol ; old  oil  requires  a larger  quantity  for  solution.  Mixed  with  iodine,  it 
gives  off  reddish  vapors,  and  strong  sulphuric  and  nitric  acid  render  it  thick  and  brown- 
red.  Frohde’s  reagent  colors  it  yellowish-brown.  The  oil  deviates  polarized  light  to  the 
left. 

Composition. — The  presence  of  oxygen  in  oil  of  rosemary  was  proven  by  Saussure 
(1820).  Gladstone  (1863)  regarded  it  as  consisting  almost  entirely  of  a hydrocarbon  very 
similar  to  that  contained  in  the  oil  of  Myrtus  communis,  Linne.  Lallemand  (1859), 
however,  obtained  by  fractional  distillation  a hydrocarbon  boiling  at  165°  C.  (329°  F.) 
and  a liquid  boiling  at  200°  C.  (392°  F.),  from  which  a stearopten  was  obtained  having 
the  composition  and  most  of  the  properties  of  camphor ; treatment  with  diluted  nitric 
acid  increases  the  yield  of  camphor.  Bruylants  (1879)  obtained  about  8 per  cent,  of 
camphor.  Cj0Hi6O,  melting  at  176°  C.  (348.8°  F.),  and  about  5 per  cent,  of  borneol, 
C10H18O ; the  hydrocarbon,  C,0H16,  boils  near  160°  C.  (320°  F.). 

Pharmaceutical  Preparations. — Unguentum  rosmarini  compositum,  s.  Ung. 
NERVINUM,  P.  G.  Melt  together  lard  16,  suet  8,  yellow  wax  2,  and  expressed  oil  of 
nutmeg  2 parts,  and  while  cooling  add  oil  of  rosemary  and  oil  of  juniper-berries  each  1 
part. — P ; G.  Baume  nerval  of  the  French  Codex  is  a similar  preparation. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  oil  is  poisonous  to  insects,  and  to  rabbits  in  the  dose  of 
20  grains.  The  skin  and  mucous  membranes  it  irritates  in  the  same  manner  as  oil  of 
turpentine.  A case  is  recorded  in  which,  along  with  oil  of  wormwood,  it  caused  the 
death  of  a child.  Internally,  it  is  a powerful  stimulant,  and  may  be  employed  for  the 
same  purposes  as  other  stimulant  oils  to  relieve  colic , promote  menstruation , and  allay 
nervous  disorder  due  to  debility.  In  ointments  and  liniments  it  is  a useful  ingredient  for 
relieving  rheumatic  pains  ; it  promotes  the  removal  of  swellings  due  to  rheumatism , 
sprains , bruises , etc.,  and  stimulates  the  growth  of  the  hair  in  alopecia  following  febrile 
affections.  Its  vapor,  when  inhaled,  reduces  the  animal  temperature  and  gives  the  urine 
a violaceous  odor  ( Edinb . Med.  Jour.,  xxiv.  1042),  and  when  cautiously  allowed  to  act 
on  the  conjunctiva  sometimes  improves  vision  impaired  by  nervous  exhaustion.  Inter- 
nally, the  dose  is  Gm.  0.05-0.10  (gtt.  i— ij ) . 

OLEUM  RUTiE,  Br. — Oil  of  Rue. 

Huile  volatile  ( Essence ) de  rue , Fr. ; Rautenol , G. ; Esencia  de  ruda,  Sp. 

The  volatile  oil  distilled  from  Ruta  graveolens,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Rutaceae. 

Preparation. — This  volatile  oil  is  distilled  with  water  or  steam  from  the  fresh  and  cut 
herb.  Lewis  obtained  from  the  fresh  flowering  herb  .82  per  cent.,  and  after  the  fruit  had 
matured  2.6  per  cent.,  of  volatile  oil ; Zeller’s  yield  was  from  dry  herb  about  | per  cent., 
from  fresh  herb  and  from  the  seeds  1 per  cent. 

Properties. — Oil  of  rue  is  a colorless  or  greenish-yellow  liquid  having  the  peculiar 
odor  of  the  plant,  a pungent  somewhat  acrid  and  bitterish  taste,  a neutral  reaction,  and 
congealing  at  a low  temperature  in  shining  scales.  The  freezing-point  varies  in  different 
samples — according  to  Geiss  (1861),  between  — 2.5°  and  — 22.5°  C.  (27.5°  and  — 8.5°  F.), 
that  from  the  seeds  congealing  first.  The  specific  gravity  varies  between  .86  and  .91.  The 
oil  is  soluble  in  an  equal  weight  of  alcohol.  Iodine  dissolves  quietly  in  the  oil ; sulphuric 
acid  dissolves  it  with  a brown-red  color ; and  sodium  bisulphite  yields  with  it  a crystalline 
compound.  By  the  action  of  nitric  acid  caprinic,pelargonic , caprylic,  and  amanthylic  acids 
are  produced,  the  products  varying  with  the  strength  of  the  acid  and  its  prolonged  action. 

Composition. — Aside  from  a small  quantity  of  a hydrocarbon,  C10IIi6,  boiling  below 
200°  C.  (390°  F.),  oil  of  rue  consists  mainly  of  an  oxygenated  portion,  which  Cahours 
and  Gerhardt  (1845)  stated  to  be  caprinic  aldehyde,  CnH220.  TIarbordt  (1862)  showed 
that  it  could  not  be  an  aldehyde,  and  regarded  it  as  methyl-caprinol,  C10H19.CH3.O,  and 
Strecker  as  a ketone  having  the  formula  CH3.CO.C9H19.  The  latter  view  has  been  proven 
to  be  correct  by  the  simultaneous  observations  made  by  Gorup-Besanez,  F.  Grimm,  and 
A.  Giesecke  (1870).  This  methyl-nonyl  ketone , when  pure,  is  a colorless  liquid  with  a 
bluish  fluorescence,  boiling  at  225°  C.  (437°  F.),  crystallizing  in  scales  near  5°  C. 
(41°  F.),  and  fusing  again  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.). 

Action  and  Uses. — An  experimenter,  having  taken  within  an  hour  three  doses  of 
oil  of  rue  of  10  minims  each,  suffered  uneasiness  in  the  stomach,  oppression  and  confusion 
of  mind,  aching  in  the  loins,  an  urgent  desire  to  urinate — the  urine  smelling  of  the  oil — 


1150 


OLEUM  SABIN JE. — OLEUM  SANTA  LI. 


flushes  of  heat,  unsteadiness  of  gait,  a tendency  to  sleep,  and  increased  frequency,  with 
diminished  tension,  of  the  pulse  (Helie,  Ann.  d'  Hygiene,  xx.  180).  These  phenomena 
are  essentially  those  produced  by  oil  of  wormwood  and  numerous  other  essential  oils,  and 
the  therapeutic  uses  of  oil  of  rue  are  the  same  as  theirs — viz.  in  the  treatment  of  colic , 
amenorrhoea , dysmenorrhoea,  uterine  haemorrhage , and  verminous  complaints.  It  may  be 
given  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.05-0.30  (gtt.  j-v). 

OLEUM  SABINiE,  U.  S.,  Br.— Oil  op  Savin. 

Essence  de  sabine,  Fr.  ; Sadebaumol , G. ; Esencia  de  sabina , Sp. 

The  volatile  oil  distilled  from  Juniperus  Sabina,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Coniferm. 

Preparation. — Oil  of  savin  is  obtained  by  distilling  the  fresh  branches  with  water 
or  steam.  The  yield  is  between  1 i and  2J  per  cent. ; Voget  obtained  from  the  berries 
nearly  10  per  cent,  of  volatile  oil. 

Properties. — The  crude  oil  has  a yellowish  or  yellow  color,  and  is  obtained  colorless 
on  rectification.  It  has  the  peculiar  terebinthinate  odor  of  savin,  a pungent,  camphora- 
ceous,  and  bitterish  taste,  and  when  fresh  a neutral  reaction ; on  exposure  to  air  it 
becomes  thicker,  reddish  or  brown.  It  dissolves  in  absolute  alcohol  in  all  proportions, 
but  yields  an  opalescent  solution  with  3 parts  of  80  per  cent,  alcohol.  The  Pharmaco- 
poeia states  that  the  oil  is  soluble  in  an  equal  volume  of  alcohol,  by  which  it  is  distin- 
guished from  the  oils  of  juniper  and  of  turpentine.  It  is  also  soluble  in  glacial  acetic 
acid.  Dragendorff  (1876)  found  the  fresh  oil  at  28°  C.  (82.4°  F.)  to  dissolve  in  0.9 
parts,  and  after  rectification  in  3.7  parts  of  85  per  cent,  alcohol.  Its  specific  gravity  is 
about  0.91,  but  varies  somewhat.  It  commences  to  boil  near  160°  C.  (320°  F.),  but  the 
greater  part  of  the  oil  boils  above  200°  C.  (390°  F.).  Mixed  with  powdered  iodine,  a 
brisk  detonation  results,  and  on  the  addition  to  the  oil  of  an  ethereal  solution  of  bromine 
the  color  of  the  latter  disappears  instantly.  The  oil  does  not  appear  to  yield  a solid 
compound  with  hydrochloric  acid  gas.  It  rotates  polarized  light  to  the  right. 

Composition. — Dumas  (1835)  found  it  to  agree  with  oil  of  turpentine  in  element- 
ary composition.  But  W.  A.  Tilden  (1877)  showed  the  lower-boiling  portion  to  have  the 
composition  C10H16O,  while  the  remaining  portion  does  not  contain  a terpene,  but  consists 
of  hydrocarbons,  which  are  easily  polymerized  by  heat. 

Action  and  Uses. — Oil  of  savin  acts  on  the  gastro-intestinal  canal  as  a violent 
irritant,  causes  vesical  tenesmus  and  strangury,  and  produces  a general  intoxication  in 
which  the  nervous  system  is  excited,  fever  is  lighted  up,  and  ultimately  coma  and  death 
may  ensue.  In  medicinal  doses  it  occasions  congestion  of  the  pelvic  organs.  It  is  an 
appropriate  medicine  in  all  of  the  cases  to  which  savin  itself  is  applied ; that  is  to  say, 
in  amenorrhoea  depending  upon  a torpid  condition  of  the  organs  of  generation,  and  in 
dysmenorrhoea  occurring  under  similar  conditions.  Its  repute  as  a remedy  for  sterility 
arises  from  its  stimulant  influence  upon  those  organs,  and  the  same  is  true  of  its  power 
to  control  passive  uterine  haemorrhage  and  leucorrhoea , especially  of  uterine  origin.  In  all 
of  these  cases  its  efficacy  depends  upon  its  power  of  stimulating.  Locally,  oil  of  savin  has 
been  applied  to  benumb  the  sensibility  of  exposed  nerves  in  dental  caries  and  to  promote 
the  shrivelling  of  condylomata. 

The  dose  of  this  oil  is  from  Gm  0.10-0.60  (gtt.  ij-x).  It  may  be  given  in  emulsion, 
pill  or  alcoholic  solution. 

OLEUM  SANTALI,  U.  S.,  Br.— Oil  of  Santal. 

Oleum  ligni  santali. — Oil  of  Sandal-wood , E. ; Santal  citrin  (huile  volatile ),  F.  Cod.; 
Santelol , Sandelol , G. ; Esencia  {Aceite  volatile)  de  sandalos  cetrina,  Sp. 

The  volatile  oil  distilled  from  the  wood  of  Santalum  album,  Lnnne  (nat.  ord.  Santal- 

aceae). 

Origin. — The  white  santal  is  a small  tree  indigenous  to  Southern  India  and  some  of 
the  East  Indian  islands,  and  cultivated  in  other  parts  of  tropical  Asia.  Santalum  Yasi, 
Seemann,  of  the  Fiji  Islands,  S.  Freycinetianum,  Gaudin , and  S.  pyrularium,  A.  Gray , 
of  the  Sandwich  Islands,  and  several  other  species,  yield  likewise  sandal-wood. 

The  leaves  of  white  sandal  are  opposite,  and  vary  in  shape  between  oval  and  lanceolate, 
and  are  smooth  and  glaucous  beneath.  The  flowers  are  small,  numerous,  in  paniculate 
cymes,  very  variable  in  color,  and  without  odor.  In  India  the  trees  are  felled  or  dug  up 
when  the  trunk  is  about  30  Cm.  (1  foot)  in  diameter,  the  branches  are  cut  off,  and  the 


OLEUM  SANTALI. 


1151 


trunk  is  left  on  the  ground  until  the  sap-wood  has  been  mostly  eaten  away  by  ants,  when 
it  is  trimmed,  the  heart-wood  alone  being  used.  Santalum  lanceolatum,  S.  obtusifolium, 
S.  ovaturn,  and  other  Australian  species  yield  a wood  of  inferior  odor. 

Santalum  album,  Lignum  santali  album,  s.  citrinum. — Santal-wood,  Yellow 
(White)  sanders-wood,  E.  ; Bois  de  santal  citrin,  Fr. ; Gelbes  (Weisses)  Santelholz,  San- 
delholz,  G. — Santal-wood  is  in  billets  varying  in  thickness  from  about  7 to  22  Cm.  (3  to 
9 inches)  and  in  color  from  whitish  to  brownish-yellow,  the  deeper-colored  being  more 
highly  valued  than  the  paler  varieties.  The  wood  is  hard  and  heavy  ; when  cut  trans- 
versely it  has  a somewhat  waxy  lustre  and  irregular  concentric  zones  alternately  lighter 
and  darker  in  color,  sometimes  rather  indistinct,  with  very  fine  vessels  and  delicate  medul- 
lary rays.  When  rubbed  or  rasped  it  has  an  agreeable  aromatic  somewhat  roseate  odor ; 
its  taste  is  aromatic,  bitterish,  and  slightly  acrid.  Odor  and  taste,  however,  vary  much 
with  the  origin  of  the  wood. 

Preparation. — Tile  wood  is  distilled  with  water  or  steam,  and  yields  from  2 to  5 
per  cent,  of  oil ; in  India,  with  imperfect  stills,  2.5  per  cent,  is  obtained  ( Pharmaco - 
graphia).  Dr.  Bidie  states  that  the  roots  yield  the  largest  amount  and  finest  quality  of 
oil.  Between  2500  and  3000  pounds  of  the  oil  are  imported  into  the  United  States. 

Properties. — Oil  of  santal  is  a thick,  light-yellow  liquid  having  in  a high  degree  the 
aromatic  odor  of  the  wood  from  which  it  has  been  distilled,  and  a pungently  aromatic 
taste ; its  reaction  is  neutral  or  slightly  acid,  and  its  behavior  to  polarized  light  either 
left-  or  right-rotating.  Its  density  is  usually  about  0.96,  and  it  is  said  to  be  occasionally 
heavier  than  water;  the  Pharmacopoeia  recognizes  an  oil  having  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  the 
spec.  grav.  0.970  to  0.978.  The  oil  begins  to  boil  at  214°  C.  (417°  F.),  the  boiling-point 
quickly  rising  to  255°  C.  (492°  F.)  (JPharmacogr  aphid).  Chapoteaut’s  oil  boiled  between 
300°  and  340°  C.  (572°  and  644°  F.).  Dragendorff  (1876)  found  oil  of  santal  distilled 
from  different  varieties  of  wood  to  be  soluble  in  all  proportions  of  91  per  cent,  alcohol, 
but  East  Indian  oil  yielded  with  11  parts  of  80  per  cent,  alcohol  an  opalescent  solution, 
while  the  solutions  of  other  varieties  of  oil  were  clear  with  1.2  to  1.8  parts  of  the  same 
alcohol.  Old  oil  seems  to  be  less  soluble  than  that  which  has  been  recently  distilled. 
Oil  of  santal  is  \se vorotary,  which  distinguishes  it  from  Australian  and  West  Indian  san- 
dal-wood oil ; these  are  dextrorotary,  and  show  the  spec.  grav.  0.953  and  0.965  respect- 
ively. 

Constituents. — The  physical  differences  pointed  out  indicate  that  oils  prepared  from 
different  woods  vary  in  their  composition,  but  they  appear  to  be  oxygenated  oils.  Chapo- 
teaut  (1882)  isolated  two  fractions,  C15H240,  boiling  near  300°  C.  (572°  F.),  and  C15H260, 
boiling  at  310°  C.  (590°  F.).  Distilled  with  phosphoric  anhydride,  they  yield  the  hydro- 
carbons C15H22  and  C15H24,  of  which  the  former  resembles  the  hydrocarbon  of  oil  of  cedar- 
wood,  and  the  latter  seems  to  be  identical  with  oil  of  copaiba. 

Santal-wood  contains  also  a resinous  principle,  and  a tannin  which  is  colored  green  by 
ferric  salts. 

Adulterations. — Oil  of  santal  is  said  to  be  adulterated  with  oil  of  copaiba  and  oil 
of  cedar-wood ; the  former  is  sparingly  soluble  in  alcohol  sp.  gr.  0.85.  For  detecting  the 
latter  Durand  (1878)  recommends  agitating  1 Gm.  of  the  oil  with  1 Gm.  of  concentrated 
cuprammonium  solution  and  4 Gm.  of  water ; after  24  hours’  rest  pure  oil  of  santal 
gives  a white  opaque  soap,  while  that  with  oil  of  cedar-wood  is  greenish.  “ If  to  1 Cc. 
of  the  oil,  at  20°  C.  (68°  F.),  there  be  added  10  Cc.  of  a mixture  of  3 volumes  of  alco- 
hol and  1 volume  of  water,  a perfectly  clear  solution  should  result  (test  for  cedarwood 
oil,  castor  oil,  and  other  fatty  oils,  etc.)” — U.  S. 

Action  and  Uses. — About  1865  oil  of  sandal-wood  was  introduced  as  a substitute 
for  copaiva  in  the  treatment  of  gonorrhoea.  In  some  cases  it  was  found  to  produce  nausea 
or  disturbance  of  the  stomach,  in  some  diarrhoea,  in  some,  also,  irritation  of  the  kidneys 
and  bladder,  and,  finally,  in  certain  patients,  erythematous  eruptions.  The  odor  it  commu- 
nicated to  the  urine  was  described  as  sickening.  Its  smell  upon  the  hands  and  breath 
was  also  said  to  be  extremely  persistent.  But  the  more  frequent  statement  was  that  it 
had  a far  less  disagreeable  smell  than  copaiva,  and  was  generally  preferred  to  it.  In 
some  cases  it  agreed  with  patients  who  could  not  tolerate  copaiva.  The  general  result, 
however,  appears  to  be  that  while  it  is  inferior  to  that  medicine  in  the  acute  disease,  it  is 
fully  equal  to  it  in  the  chronic  forms.  Like  copaiva,  it  must  be  given  for  some  time  after 
the  urethral  discharge  has  ceased.  Like  that  medicine  also,  it  is  very  serviceable  in 
chronic  cystitis  and  pyelitis , chronic  diarrhoea, , especially  of  the  mucous  variety,  and  in 
chronic  bronchitis , even  when  accompanying  bronchial  dilatation  and  foetor. 

Oil  of  sandal-wood  may  be  given  in  doses  of  from  Gm.  0.30—1.30  (5  to  20  drops)  three 


1152 


OLEUM  SASSAFRAS.— OLEUM  S ESA  MI. 


times  a day,  according  to  the  degree  of  inflammation  present.  It  has  been  administered 
in  capsules,  and  in  mixtures  such  as  the  following:  R.  Oil  of  sandal-wood  fgss ; dilute 
alcohol  f^ijss;  oil  of  cinnamon  ttlxxv. — M.  S. — 1 or  2 teaspoonfuls  two  or  three  times 
a day.  It  may  also  be  given  mixed  with  powdered  liquorice  in  wafers. 

OLEUM  SASSAFRAS,  U.  Oil  of  Sassafras. 

( Essence ) de  sassafras , Fr.  Cod.  ; Sassafrasol , G.  ; Esencia  de  sasafrds , Sp. 

The  volatile  oil  distilled  from  the  wood  of  Sassafras  officinale,  Nees. 

Nat.  Ord. — Lauraceae. 

Preparation. — Oil  of  sassafras  is  distilled  in  Maryland  and  various  other  parts  of 
the  United  States,  mostly  in  the  neighborhood  of  those  places  where  a supply  of  the 
root  may  be  obtained  without  requiring  much  transportation.  The  stills  used  are  made 
of  copper  or  iron,  and  usually  connected  with  a lead  condenser.  The  roots,  together 
with  the  adhering  bark,  are  cut  into  chips,  about  10  bushels  of  which  constitute  a 
charge,  and  yield  on  an  average  about  4 pounds  of  the  oil,  the  distillation  requiring 
about  twelve  hours  (Procter,  1866).  If  the  root  is  dug  up  shortly  after  the  tree  has  been 
cut,  it  appears  to  yield  a colorless  or  yellow  oil,  but  if  the  stumps  are  permitted  to 
remain  in  the  ground  for  some  time  they  acquire  a red  color  and  yield  a brown-red  oil. 

Properties. — As  stated,  oil  of  sassafras  is  either  colorless  or  more  frequently  of 
various  shades  of  yellow  or  brown-red,  a difference  which  does  not  affect  its  quality. 
When  carefully  rectified  it  may  be  obtained  colorless,  but  on  exposure  again  becomes 
colored.  It  has  the  odor  of  sassafras  in  a high  degree,  a warm  aromatic  taste,  a neutral 
reaction,  and  a slightly  dextrogyre  rotatory  power.  Its  specific  gravity  is  from  1.070  to 
1.090,  and  increases  somewhat  by  age.  It  dissolves  in  small  quantities  of  water,  becoming 
lighter  thereby.  It  is  freely  soluble  in  alcohol,  and  dissolves  in  4 or  5 parts  of  80  per 
cent,  alcohol ; it  is  also  soluble  in  all  proportions  in  glacial  acetic  acid  and  in  carbon 
disulphide ; is  violently  acted  on  by  bromine,  but  dissolves  iodine  quietly.  5 drops  of 
the  oil  treated  with  5 drops  of  nitric  acid  cause  a violent  reaction,  resulting  in  the  for- 
mation of  a red  color  and  gradually  a red  resin.  Treated  with  sulphuric  acid,  the  oil 
assumes  a deep-red  color,  which  turns  blackish. 

Composition. — According  to  Grimaux  and  Buotte  (1869),  potassa  solution  extracts 
from  oil  of  sassafras  a body  which  appears  to  be  a phenol,  has  the  odor  of  eugenol,  and 
assumes  a bright-green  color  with  ferric  chloride.  By  fractional  distillation  a hydro- 
carbon, safrene , C10H16,  is  obtained,  which  boils  between  155°  and  157°  C.  (311°  and 
314.6°  F.),  and  is  dextrogyre.  The  oxygenated  portion,  safrol , C10H10O2,  constitutes 
nine-tenths  of  the  oil,  is  without  action  on  polarized  light,  distils  between  230°  and 
235°  C.  (446°  and  455°  F.),  remains  liquid  at  — 20°  C.  (—  4°  F.),  and  yields  with 
bromine  crystals  of  C10H5Br5O2.  On  cooling  the  oil  in  a freezing  mixture  Saint-Evre 
(1843)  obtained  crystallized  sassafras-camphor , C,oH1002,  which  remained  solid  at  5°  C. 
(41°  F.),  and  after  being  fused  congealed  again  at  7.5°  C.  (45.5°  F.). 

Action  and  Uses. — The  action  and  uses  of  this  oil  do  not  differ  materially  from 
those  of  numerous  other  essential  oils  in  its  anodyne  and  stimulant  qualities.  Like 
them,  it  may  act  poisonously  (Hill,  Trans.  Med.  Faculty  of  Maryland , 1884 ; Allbright, 
Med.  Record , xxxv.  66),  and,  like  menthol,  it  has  been  found  to  allay  the  pain  of  neural- 
gia when  applied  over  the  affected  nerve  (Brit.  Med.  Jour..  June  22,  1889).  It  is 
alleged  to  prevent  the  usual  effects  of  tobacco  when  mixed  with  it  and  smoked,  and  also 
the  narcotic  action  of  hyoscyamus  when  associated  with  that  drug.  The  dose  is  from 
Gm.  0.10—0.60  (gtt.  ii-x). 

OLEUM  SESAMI,  U.  Oil  of  Sesamum. 

Benne  oil , Gingili  oil,  Teel  oil , E. ; Huile  de  sesame , Fr. ; Sesamol , G. ; Aceite  de  ajonjoh , 
Sp- 

The  fixed  oil  expressed  from  the  seeds  of  Sesamum  indicum,  Linne.  Bentley  and 
Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 198. 

Nat.  Ord. — Pedaliacese. 

Origin. — Benne  is  an  annual  herb  which  is  indigenous  to  India,  but  is  now  not 
found  in  the  wild  state ; it  is  largely  cultivated  in  most  tropical  countries  and  in  the 
warmer  portions  of  the  temperate  zone.  It  grows  from  0.6— 1.5  M.  (2  to  5 feet)  bign, 
and  has  an  erect,  branching,  bluntly  quadrangular,  and  hairy  stem,  alternate  or  sub-oppo- 
site leaves,  and  short-stalked  axillary  flowers,  with  large  white  bell-shaped  five-lobed  and 


OLEUM  SESAMI. 


1153 


Fig.  200. 


somewhat  two-lipped  corollas.  The  fruit  is  capsular,  two-valved,  four-celled,  quadran- 
gular and  linear-oblong  in  shape,  and  contains  numerous  seeds,  which  are  small,  flattened, 
oval  or  ovate,  smooth  and  shining,  vary  in  color  between  whitish,  yellow,  reddish-brown, 
and  blackish,  have  a sweetish  oily  taste,  and  contain  a straight  embryo  with  a short  radicle 
and  large  plano-convex  oily  cotyledons.  Sesamum  orientale,  Limit , is  now  regarded  as 
being  identical  with  this  species. 

Sesamum.  Ajonjole , Alegnia , Sp. — Benne,  Sesame-leaves,  E. ; Feuilles  de  sesame,  Fr. ; 
Sesamblatter,  &. — The  leaves  are  mostly  employed  in  the  fresh  state.  They  are  long- 
petiolate,  ovate  or  lance-oblong  in  outline,  narrowed  or  rounded  or  somewhat  heart-shaped 
at  the  base,  more  or  Less  pointed  above,  entire  on  the  margin  or  irregularly  toothed,  and 
the  lower  ones  frequently  cut  into  three-toothed  lobes  or  distinct  leaflets.  The  leaves 
are  prominently  veined  on  the  lower  surface,  are  smoothish  or  somewhat  pubescent,  and 
have  a mucilaginous  taste.  Their  principal  constituent  is  mucilage,  which  is  precipitated 
from  its  aqueous  solution  by  alcohol. 

Preparation. — Oil  of  benne  is  obtained  by  subjecting  benne-seeds  to  pressure ; the 
yield  is  in  the  neighborhood  of  50  per  cent,  of  the  weight  of  seeds. 

Properties. — -Benne  oil  has  a yellowish  or  yellow  color,  usually  of  a deeper  hue  than 
expressed  almond  oil,  is  thinner  at  ordinary  temper- 
atures than  most  other  fixed  oils,  is  nearly  inodorous, 
and  has  a bland  and  agreeable  peculiar  taste,  and 
the  specific  gravity  0.919  to  0.923  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.). 

At  — 3°  C.  (26.6°  F.)  it  becomes  thick,  and  congeals 
usually  at  about  — 5°  C.  (23°  F.),  while  the  oil 
extracted  by  solvents  congeals  at  about  5°  C.  (41° 

F.),  forming  a yellowish-white  mass ; when  heated 
to  between  150°  and  200°  C.  (302°  and  392°  F.)  it 
is  decolorized.  At  300°  C.  (302°  F.)  it  assumes 
a brown  color,  and  at  335°  C.  (635°  F.)  it  com- 
mences to  boil.  It  is  a non-drying  oil.  and  on  ex- 
posure to  air  does  not  readily  turn  rancid.  Concen- 
trated sulphuric  acid  converts  it  into  a brown-red 
gelatinous  mass;  nitric  acid  specific  gravity  1.18 
colors  it  gradually  orange-yellow,  and  when  of 
greater  strength,  red ; with  a mixture  of  nitric 
and  sulphuric  acid  it  is  transiently  colored  green, 
afterward  red  and  brown-red  ; in  contact  with  nitrous 
acid  it  becomes  reddish  and  brown-red,  and  grad- 
ually forms  a semi-solid  mass. 

“ If  5 Cc.  of  the  oil  be  shaken  with  an  equal 
volume  of  concentrated  hydrochloric  acid,  the  latter 

will  usually  assume  a bright  emerald-green  color,  especially  if  the  oil  has  been  exposed 
for  some  time  to  the  action  of  air  and  light ; and,  on  the  subsequent  addition  of  about 
9.5  Gm.  of  sugar,  and  again  shaking  the  mixture,  a blue  color,  changing  to  violet,  and 
finally  to  deep  crimson,  is  produced.” — U.  S. 

Composition. — Fliickiger  (Pharmacographia)  found  benne  oil  prepared  by  himself 
to  contain  76  per  cent,  of  olein  ; the  acids  of  the  solidifying  portion  appear  to  be  stearic, 
palmitic,  and  myristic  acids.  A small  quantity  of  a peculiar,  probably  resinous,  substance 
may  be  extracted  from  the  oil  by  agitation  with  glacial  acetic  acid  or  with  alcohol ; the 
acetic  solution  acquires  a greenish-yellow,  the  alcoholic  solution  a blue  afterward 
greenish-yellow,  color  on  the  addition  of  a cold  mixture  of  equal  weights  of  sulphuric 
and  nitric  acids.  (See  also  p.  1093.) 


Sesamum  indicmu,  Liime:  a.  flowering 
branch  ; b , section  of  seed. 


Allied  Oils. — The  following  four  oils  are  obtained  from  seeds  of  the  natural  order  Leguminosse: 
Kurung  Oil  is  thickish,  yellow,  of  the  specific  gravity  .945,  and  begins  to  become  turbid  near 
7°  C.  (44.5°  F.).  It  comes  from  an  East  Indian  tree,  Pongamia  glabra,  Ventenat,  s.  Dalbergia 
arborea.  Roxburgh,  the  odorous  root  and  leaves  of  which  are  also  used  medicinally.  The  seeds 
are  gray  and  kidney-shaped. 

Ground-nut  Oil,  Pea-nut  Oil. — Huile  de  pistache  deterre,  Fr. ; Erdnussol,  G. — It  is  prepared 
from  Arachis  hypogaea,  Limit  (Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 75),  an  annual  herb  indigenous 
to  tropical  America  and  now  cultivated  throughout  the  tropics;  it  is  known  in  Brazil  as  amendoim 
or  mandobim.  The  seeds  contain  about  45  per  cent,  of  oil.  This  is  pale-yellow,  thin,  has  the 
density  .920,  and  a peculiar  nutty  flavor,  becomes  turbid  at  about  3°  C.  (37.4°  F.),  and  congeals 
near  — 5°  C.  (23°  F.).  Nitrous  acid  causes  the  oil  to  congeal  to  a whitish  mass:  nitric  acid 
colors  it  reddish,  and  sulphuric  acid  grayish-yellow,  then  green-brown.  It  consists  of  the  glyce- 


1154 


OLEUM  SIN  APIS  VOLATILE. 


rides  of  palmitic,  arachic , and  hypogceic  acids.  The  latter  is  ClfiH30O2,  and  crystallizes  in  needles 
which  melt  near  35°  C.  (95°  F.).  Arachic  acid,  C20H40O2,  melts  at  75°  C.  (167°  F.).  Under  the 
name  of  katchung  oil  this  oil  is  largely  used  in  India  in  the  place  of  olive  oil. . 

Soy  Oil  is  prepared  from  Soja  hispida,  Moench,  s.  Dolichos  Soja,  Limit.  The  plant  is  indigenous 
to  Japan,  and  largely  cultivated  in  Southern  Asia  for  its  brownish  or  whitish  ovate-reniform 
seeds,  Avhich  are  used  as  food,  and  for  preparing  a sauce  called  soy ; when  fresh  they  contain  14 
to  16  per  cent,  of  moisture  and  from  16  to  18  per  cent,  of  a bland  yellowish  oil. 

Nicker-seed  Oil,  from  Caesalpinia  (Guilandina,  Linne ) Bonducella,  Roxburgh.  The  seeds  of 
this  tropical  climber,  which  are  also  known  as  bonduc  nuts , are  somewhat  compressed,  sub- 
globular,  or  oblong,  bluish  or  ashy  gray,  slightly  rigid,  and  have  a bitter  taste.  The  expressed 
oil  is  used  for  embrocations.  The  seeds  are  used  in  India  as  a tonic  and  anti-periodic  ; they  con- 
tain a white  bitter  principle  soluble  in  ether  and  alcohol  and  slightly  soluble  in  water  ( Phar  ma - 
cographia).  The  bark  of  bonduc-root  is  likewise  employed  as  a tonic. 

Ben  oil,  Behen  Oil,  is  expressed  from  the  seeds  of  Moringa  pterygosperma,  Gaertner  (Mor. 
oleifera,  Lamarck , Guilandina  Moringa,  Linne),  and  one  or  two  allied  East  Indian  trees  of  the 
nat.  ord.  Moringaceae.  The  bark  of  the  root  has  an  odor  and  taste  resembling  horseradish.  The 
seeds,  known  as  ben  nuts,  are  triangular-globose,  pitted,  and  have  elongated  membranous  wings 
on  the  angles;  the  seeds  of  Moringa  aptera,  Gaertner,  are  without  wings;  both  are  acrid,  bitter, 
and  emetic.  They  yield  about  30  per  cent,  of  fixed  oil,  which  is  yellowish,  inodorous,  bland,  or 
if  expressed  at  an  elevated  temperature  somewhat  bitter,  acrid,  and  purgative.  It  retains  its 
neutral  reaction  for  a long  time.  It  solidifies  at  about  0°  C.  (32°  F.),  but  below  7°  C.  (44.6°  F.) 
it  deposits  solid  fats  ; the  portion  remaining  liquid  is  used  for  extracting  delicate  perfumes  from 
flowers.  Oil  of  ben  consists  of  the  glycerides  of  moringic,  oleic,  myristic,  palmitic,  stearic,  and 
behenic  acids.  Moringic  acid,  C15H2802,  is  liquid,  and  crystallizes  at  0°  C.  (32°  F.).  Behenic 
acid,  C22II4402,  is  crystalline,  melts  at  76°  C.  (168.8°  F.),  and  solidifies  at  70°  C.  (158°  F.). 

The  slowly-drying  bland  or  slightly-pungent  oil  expressed  from  the  seeds  of  Camelina  sativa, 
Crantz , s.  Myagrum  sativum,  Linne  (Leindotter,  G.),  is  sometimes  called  German  sesame  oil. 

Action  and  Uses. — Sesamum  was  anciently  ranked  among  the  most  nutritious 
grains,  and  as  tending  especially  to  fatten,  but  it  was  also  considered  difficult  of  digestion. 
Hippocrates  recommended  consumptives  to  use  bread  made  of  it  instead  of  wheat,  and 
in  pulmonary  catarrhs  prescribed  an  emulsion  prepared  with  sesame,  almond,  and  melon- 
seeds.  To  this  day  it  serves  to  make  bread  in  the  East.  Its  oil  was  anciently  used,  and 
in  India  continues  to  be  employed,  for  the  same  purposes  as  olive  oil,  but  it  has  always 
been  regarded  as  less  agreeable  and  as  less  digestible.  Externally,  the  bruised  or  ground 
seeds  were  applied  in  maturative  poultices,  and  a decoction  prepared  with  them  was  held 
to  be  emmenagogue  and  abortive.  Dr.  F.  P.  Porcher  informs  us  that  the  seeds  may  be 
used  “ as  a substitute  for  mustard-seed  and  as  a mechanical  irritant  laxative.”  No  men- 
tion is  made  by  ancient  writers  of  the  mucilage  of  the  young  leaves.  The  seeds  of 
sesame  are  used  by  the  negroes  of  South  Carolina  in  making  broths,  and  are  also  eaten 
by  them  parched.  The  oil,  which  is  very  bland,  is  applied  to  the  same  purposes  as  olive 
oil.  The  mucilage  is  generally  prepared  from  the  fresh  young  leaves  by  infusing  them 
in  cold  water.  It  is  justly  esteemed  as  a demulcent  drink  in  cholera  infantum , dysentery , 
and  other  disorders  of  the  bowels. 

Pongamia  glabra  furnishes  the  kurung  oil  which  is  employed  in  Hindostan  in  the  treat- 
ment of  various  skin  diseases.  Pityriasis  versicolor  is  mentioned  as  one  of  those  in  which 
it  is  efficient  (Amer.  Jour.  Phar.,  May,  1883,  p.  267). 

OLEUM  SINAPIS  VOLATILE,  U.  S.— Volatile  Oil  of  Mustard. 

Oleum  sinapis , Br.,  P.  G. ; Oleum  sinapis  sethereum. — Oil  of  mustard , E. ; Essence  de 
moutarde,  Fr. ; pEtherisches  Senfol,  G. 

A volatile  oil  obtained  from  the  seeds  of  Sinapis  (Brassica,  Koch ) nigra,  Linne , by 
maceration  with  water  and  subsequent  distillation. 

Nat.  Ord. — Cruciferae,  Siliquosae. 

Preparation. — Black  mustard-seeds  are  ground,  deprived  of  most  of  their  fixed  oil 
by  pressure,  macerated  with  water  at  the  common  temperature,  and  then  distilled.  A 
small  quantity  of  ground  white  mustard-seed  is  usually  added  to  supply  any  possible 
deficiency  of  myrosin  and  ensure  the  decomposition  of  all  the  myronic  acid.  Since  oil  of 
mustard  is  soluble  in  water,  the  aqueous  portion  of  the  distillate  is  used  in  macerating 
a fresh  portion  of  mustard.  The  yield  is  usually  about  # per  cent.,  but  occasionally  as 
high  as  1 per  cent.  Dircks  (1883)  obtained  the  following  yield  : black  mustard-seed  cake, 
1.39  per  cent. ; rape-seed,  0.018  to  0.037 ; rape-seed  cake,  0.020  to  0.109 ; yellow  mustard- 
seed  cake,  0.018  ; turnip-seed,  0.038  ; seed  of  Sinapis  arvensis,  Linne,  0.006.  According  to 
A.  W.  Hofmann  (1882),  the  oil  is  best  prepared  artificially  by  boiling  sulpho-urea  with 
concentrated  phosphoric  acid. 


OLEUM  SUCCINI. 


1155 


Properties. — The  crude  oil  has  a yellow  color ; after  rectification  it  is  colorless  or 
nearly  so.  It  is  neutral  to  test-paper,  lias  the  specific  gravity  1.017  (1.016-1.022  P.  G., 
1.018—1.029  U.  aS'.),  is  strongly  refractive,  boils  at  148°  C.  to  150°  C.  (298.4°— 302°  F.), 
is  somewhat  soluble  in  water,  freely  so  in  alcohol  and  ether,  carbon  disulphide,  and  has  a 
very  pungent  and  acrid  odor  and  taste.  If  to  3 Om.  of  oil  6 Gm.  cold  concentrated  sulphuric 
acid  be  added,  the  mixture  retains  a light-yellow  color  and  remains  perfectly  transparent, 
sulphur  dioxide  is  given  off.  the  liquid  becomes  thicker,  sometimes  crystalline,  and 
the  piercing  odor  of  mustard  oil  disappears ; in  the  presence  of  other  volatile  oils  a brown 
or  red  color  is  produced.  Ammonia  converts  the  oil  into  thiosinamine  or  allylsulpho-urea , 
C3H5.XH.NH2.CS  = C4H8N2S,  which  crystallizes  in  colorless  rhombic  prisms  having  a 
bitter  taste,  melting  at  70°  C.  (158°  F.),  and  easily  soluble  in  water,  alcohol,  and  ether. 
This  reaction  was  recommended  by  Fliickiger  (1880)  as  a quantitative  test  for  the  oil 
(see  below). 

Composition. — Oil  of  mustard  is  allyl  sulphocyanate,  C3II5.CNS.  Sometimes  it 
contains  also  allyl  cyanide  and  carbon  disulphide,  the  latter,  according  to  A.  Hofmann, 
not  exceeding  .56  per  cent.,  while  Jolianson  (1881)  found  from  .76  to  2 per  cent. ; both 
these  compounds  boil  at  a lower  temperature.  The  oil  is  artificially  prepared  by  decom- 
posing allyl  bromide  or  iodide  by  means  of  an  alcoholic  solution  of  potassium  sulplio- 
cyanate.  Using  an  allyl  iodide  obtained  from  glycerin  and  phosphorus  iodide,  Gerlich 
(1875)  obtained  a mustard  oil  which  consisted  of  isopropyl  sulphocyanate,  C3H7CNS,  the 
density  of  which  is  0.974.  Mylius  (1877)  found  in  the  artificial  oil  of  commerce,  besides 
92.2  per  cent,  of  allyl-mustard  oil,  some  hydrocyanic  acid,  carbon  disulphide,  and  poly- 
sulphides. 

Tests. — “ If  a portion  of  the  oil  be  heated  in  a flask  connected  with  a well-cooled 
condenser,  it  should  distil  completely  between  148°  and  150°  C.  (298.4°  and  302°  F.), 
and  both  the  first  and  the  last  portions  of  the  distillate  should  have  the  same  specific 
gravity  as  the  original  oil  (absence  of  alcohol,  chloroform,  carbon  disulphide,  petroleum, 
and  fatty  oils).  If  a small  portion  of  the  oil  be  diluted  with  five  times  its  volume  of 
alcohol  and  a drop  of  ferric  chloride  test-solution  be  added  no  blue  or  violet  color  should 
be  produced  (absence  of  phenols).  If  a mixture  of  3 Gm.  of  the  oil  and  3 Gm.  of  alcohol 
be  shaken,  in  a small  flask,  with  6 Gm.  of  ammonia-water,  it  will  become  clear  after  stand- 
ing for  some  hours  quietly  at  50°  C.  (122°  F.),  and  usually  deposit,  without  becoming 
colored,  crystals  of  thiosinamine  (allyl-thio-urea,  CS.N2H3(C3H5)).  To  determine  the  pro- 
portion of  thiosinamine  obtainable  from  the  oil,  decant  the  mother-water  from  the  crystals 
and  evaporate  it  gradually  in  a tared  capsule,  on  a water-bath,  adding  fresh  portions  only 
after  the  ammoniacal  odor  of  the  preceding  portion  has  disappeared.  Then  transfer  the 
crystals,  including  those  remaining  in  the  flask,  which  may  be  rinsed  out  with  a little 
alcohol,  to  the  capsule,  and  heat  the  latter  on  a water-bath,  until  its  weight  remains  con- 
stant. The  amount  of  thiosinamine  thus  obtained  from  3 Gm.  of  the  oil  should  be  not 
less  than  3.25  Gm.,  nor  more  than  3.5  Gm.  After  cooling,  thiosinamine  forms  a brownish, 
crystalline  mass,  fusing  at  70°  C.  (158°  F.),  and  having  a leek-like,  but  not  at  all  pungent 
odor.  The  mass  should  be  soluble  in  2 parts  of  warm  water,  and  this  solution,  which 
should  not  redden  blue  litmus-paper,  possesses  a somewhat  bitter,  not  persistent  taste.” 


Action  and  Uses. — Volatile  oil  of  mustard  is  a powerful  and  almost  caustic  irri- 
tant, which,  for  fear  of  accident,  should  never  be  prescribed  internally.  It  is  said  that  it 
may  sometimes  be  applied  as  an  external  counter-irritant  upon  parts  to  which  a blistering 
plaster  cannot  readily  be  adapted,  but  there  are  none  upon  which  cantharidal  collodion 
cannot  as  readily  be  painted  as  this  oil.  As  a rubefacient  it  may  be  used  dissolved 
in  olive  oil  or  alcohol  in  the  proportion  of  about  Gm.  0.30  in  Gm.  4 (5  drops  to  the 
fluidrachm). 


OLEUM  SUCCINI —Oil  of  Amber. 

Huile  volatile  de  succin , Fr. ; Bernsteiriol , G. 

The  volatile  oil  obtained  by  the  destructive  distillation  of  amber  and  purified  by  recti 

fication. 

Origin. — Succinum,  Ambra  flava. — Amber,  E. ; Succin,  Ambre  jaune,  Fr. ; Bern- 
stein, Agtstein,  G. — This  fossil  resin  is  the  exudation  from  a number  of  extinct  coniferous 
trees  of  the  sub-orders  Abieteae  and  Cupresseae,  the  principal  source  of  the  Baltic  amber 
being  Pinites  succinifer,  Gocppcrt , s.  Pityoxylon  succiniferum,  Kraus.  It  is  principally 
obtained  on  the  southern  and  south-eastern  coast  of  the  Baltic,  where  it  is  cast  ashore  or 


1156 


OLEUM  TEREBINTHINjE. 


dug  out  of  beds.  It  has  also  been  found  in  the  interior  of  Europe  and  in  Siberia,  Green- 
land, and  North  America.  It  is  hard,  somewhat  brittle,  whitish,  yellow,  or  red-brown, 
transparent,  translucent,  or  opaque,  breaks  with  a conchoidal  fracture,  and  frequently 
encloses  vegetable  fragments  and  insects.  It  is  fragrant  when  heated,  melts  at  about 
287.5°  C.  (550°  F.),  dissolves  in  chloroform,  but  is  insoluble  in  water,  and  only  partly 
soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  and  volatile  oils.  Its  density  varies  between  1.05  and  1.10. 

The  annual  production  of  amber  in  Prussia  is  estimated  at  100,000  kilos.  From  4000  to 
7000  pounds  of  oil  of  amber  are  annually  imported  by  the  United  States. 

Preparation. — The  oil  is  obtained  by  the  dry  distillation  of  amber,  succinic  acid 
being  formed  at  the  same  time  (see  page  97).  The  crude  oil  is  mixed  with  six  times  its 
volume  of  water,  and  distilled  as  long  as  oil  is  found  in  the  distillate.  The  yield  is  usually 
stated  to  be  from  60  to  70  per  cent,  of  the  crude  oil ; but  Ebert  (1865),  who  prepared  the 
crude  oil,  obtained  from  29  troyounces  of  amber  21  fluidounces  of  oil  specific  gravity 
0.985,  and  on  rectifying  this  with  water  only  2£  fluidounces,  or  about  12  per  cent,  of 
rectified  oil  specific  gravity  0.903,  while  the  density  of  the  residue  had  increased  to  1.019. 
Marsson  (1850)  obtained  from  amber  6 per  cent,  of  rectified  oil,  3.5  per  cent,  of  succinic 
acid,  and  58.3  of  residuary  resin  (amber  colophony).  Popping  (1847)  observed  that  the 
crude  oil,  after  having  been  treated  with  potassa  solution,  dilute  sulphuric  acid,  caustic 
potassa,  and  calcium  chloride  in  succession,  distilled  between  140°  and  170°  C.  (284°  and 
338°  F.)  and  left  a dark -brown  residue.  On  again  treating  the  distillate  with  burned 
lime,  and  repeating  the  distillation,  the  liquid  had  a higher  boiling-point  (up  to  190°  C., 
374°  F.)  and  was  colorless. 

Properties. — Crude  oil  of  amber  is  a thick  brown  liquid  of  a strong  empyreuinatie 
and  fetid  odor,  and  variable  specific  gravity  approaching  the  density  of  water ; Marsson 
found  it  to  be  .922.  Very  similar  products  are  obtained  from  copal,  dammar,  and  other 
resins.  In  this  state  it  is  rarely  employed  in  medicine,  but  is  used  in  preparing 

Oleum  succini  rectificatum,  Rectified  oil  of  amber.  This  is  thin,  colorless  or  yel- 
lowish, becomes  darker  and  thicker  on  exposure,  has  a spec.  grav.  of  about  .920,  but  varies 
in  density  between  0.88  and  0.99,  and  in  the  boiling-point  as  stated  above.  It  has  a pun- 
gent, empyreumatic,  and  somewhat  balsamic  odor,  which  is  more  pleasant  than  that  of  the 
crude  oil,  and  a warm,  acrid  taste.  It  has  a neutral  or  faint  acid  reaction,  dissolves, 
according  to  Anthon  (1835),  in  2 parts  of  absolute  alcohol,  but  requires  at  about  35°  C. 
(95°  F.)  30  parts  of  alcohol  spec.  grav.  .855  for  complete  solution.  Ebert  found  it  solu- 
ble in  4 parts  of  alcohol  spec.  grav.  .817,  and  in  17  parts  of  alcohol  spec.  grav.  .835.  It 
is  readily  soluble  in  ether,  fixed  and  volatile  oils,  dissolves  iodine,  and,  when  heated,  sul- 
phur and  caoutchouc.  It  absorbs  some  hydrochloric  acid  gas  without  forming  a crystal-  { 
line  compound,  and  in  contact  with  cold  fuming  nitric  acid  acquires  a red  afterward  dark  j 
red-brown  color,  and  is  converted  into  a brown  resinous  mass  having  a peculiar  musk-like  \ 

odor,  and  formerly  known  and  medicinally  employed  under  the  name  of  artificial  musk.  j 

It  was  discovered  by  Marggraf  (1759),  and  may  also  be  obtained  from  oil  of  amber  and 
ordinary  or  diluted  nitric  acid  on  the  application  of  heat. 

Composition. — In  its  purest  state  oil  of  amber  is  a mixture  of  several  oils  having 
the  composition  of  oil  of  turpentine,  C10H16. 

Adulterations. — Oil  of  amber  is  not  unfrequently  adulterated  with  oil  of  turpentine 
and  with  coal  oil ; the  former  is  recognized  by  the  brisk  reaction  with  iodine,  and  by  the 
formation  of  terpin  when  left  in  contact  with  alcohol  and  nitric  acid  ; the  latter  by  the 
decreased  solubility  in  alcohol. 

Action  and  Uses. — Oil  of  amber  is  a powerful  irritant  of  the  skin.  When  taken 
internally  it  is  said  to  be  stimulant  and  antispasmodic.  In  large  doses  it  acts  as  acrid 
and  neurotic  poison,  and  has  been  employed  to  produce  criminal  abortion  ( Thera'p . Gaz., 
x.  214).  It  has  been  given  in  various  mucous  profluvia  of  the  lungs  and  urinary  organs, 
in  retrocedent  gout  and  rheumatism , eruptive  fevers , hysteria , whooping  cough , and  amenor- 
rhoea.  Externally,  it  may  be  employed  in  stimulating  liniments  for  rheumatism  and 
paralysis  and  rubbed  upon  the  spine  in  the  convulsive  disorders  of  children.  It  has 
been  applied  as  a stimulant  discutient  to  hsemorrhoidal  tumors.  The  dose  is  Gm.  0.30-0.60, 
(gttv-x),  and  on  account  of  its  acrid  and  offensive  taste  the  oil  should  be  enclosed  in 
gelatin  capsules. 

OLEUM  TEREBINTHIN  -33,  U.  S„  Br.,  P.  G — Oil  op  Turpentine. 

Essence  de  terebenthine , Fr.  ; Terpentinol , G. ; Esencia  de  treventina , Sp. 

The  volatile  oil  distilled  from  turpentine.  (See  Terebinthina.) 


OLEUM  TER E B IN '1  'H IN JE. 


1157 


Preparation. — Oil  ot*  turpentine  is  obtained  by  distilling  the  oleoresinous  exudation 
of  various  species  of  Pinus.  The  crude  turpentine  is  put  into  a large  still,  heat  is  applied, 
and  a little  water  added  from  time  to  time  to  the  contents  of  the  still.  The  distillation 
is  continued  as  long  as  oil  passes  over,  when  the  resinous  mass  is  run  off  through  a stop- 
cock placed  at  the  bottom  of  the  still,  is  passed  through  several  strainers,  and  then  con- 
stitutes rosin.  (See  Resina.)  On  condensing  the  distillate  the  oil  of  turpentine  separates 
from  the  water  and  is  dipped  into  barrels,  in  which  it  enters  commerce. 

Properties. — Oil  of  turpentine  is  a colorless,  thin,  volatile  oil,  the  density  of  which 
varies  between  0.855  and  0.87.  When  recently  rectified  it  boils  at  about  150°  C.  (302° 
F.),  but  the  temperature  usually  rises  as  the  distillation  progresses,  and  old  oil  generally 
boils  between  155°  or  170°  C.  (311°  or  338°  F.).  As  procured  from  different  sources,  oil 
of  turpentine  shows  great  differences  in  its  optical  behavior,  and  on  fractional  distillation 
with  or  without  water  oils  are  obtained  differing  in  the  degree  of  their  influence  upon 
polarized  light.  American  and  German  oil  of  turpentine  are  dextrogyre,  while  the  French 
oil  has  a levogyre  action.  Odor  and  taste  are  peculiar,  strongly  terebinthinate,  differing 
to  some  degree  according  to  the  source  from  which  the  oil  has  been  obtained.  When 
recently  distilled,  particularly  after  rectification  with  water,  the  oil  has  a neutral  reaction 
and  its  odor  is  rather  mild,  but  after  exposure  to  air  it  becomes  stronger,  more  unpleasant, 
and  pungent ; the  oil  then  contains  ozone,  and  gradually  acquires  a yellowish  color  and 
thicker  consistence ; at  the  same  time  resin  and  formic  and  acetic  acids  are  produced,  and 
in  the  presence  of  moisture,  also  a hydrate  of  the  oil.  The  aqueous  solution  of  such 
oxidized  oil  has  been  used  under  the  name  of  sanitas  as  an  antiseptic ; on  evaporating  it 
Kingzett  (1880)  obtained  a dark-colored  adhesive  mass,  C10H18O3,  which  with  sulphuric 
acid  gave  a dark -red  color.  Oil  of  turpentine  dissolves  in  \ or  % part  of  alcohol  sp.  gr. 
0.816,  in  11  or  2 parts  of  alcohol  sp.  gr.  0.820,  in  4 or  5 parts  of  alcohol  sp.  gr.  0.830,  and 
in  from  8 to  12  parts  of  alcohol  sp.  gr.  0.845;  the  solubility  of  oil  of  different  origin  and 
age  varies  more  or  less,  and  occasionally  oil  of  turpentine  has  been  observed  which  even 
with  strong  alcohol  would  not  yield  a perfectly  clear  solution.  It  is  also  soluble  in  an  equal 
volume  of  glacial  acetic  acid.  Bromine  and  powdered  iodine  act  violently  upon  oil  of 
turpentine  ; nitric  acid  oxidizes  it,  the  violence  of  the  action  and  the  final  products  being 
influenced  by  the  strength  of  the  acid.  Gaseous  hydrochloric  acid  unites  with  oil  of 
turpentine,  forming  two  compounds  : one,  having  the  composition  C10H16HC1,  is  known  as 
artificial  camphor , is  crystallizable,  and  has  the  odor  and  taste  of  ordinary  camphor,  but  is 
less  pungent  and  somewhat  terebinthinate.  Three  compounds  with  water  are  known  ; 
one,  which  is  called  turpentine  camphor  or  terpin , has  the  composition  CI0H20O2,  and  is 
obtained  by  leaving  the  oil  in  contact  with  alcohol  and  nitric  acid.  If  a small  quantity  of 
the  oil  be  evaporated  in  a small  capsule  on  a water-bath,  only  a very  slight  residue 
should  remain  (absence  of  petroleum,  paraffin,  oils  or  resins). 

Purification. — The  partially  resinified  oil  is  best  purified  by  rectification  with  water, 
or  it  may  be  repeatedly  agitated  with  small  portions  of  alcohol,  which  dissolves  the  resin, 
and  afterward  with  water. 

Oleum  terebinthinje  rectificatum. — Rectified  oil  of  turpentine,  E. ; Essence  de 
terebenthine  rectifiee,  Fr. ; Gereinigtes  Terpentinol,  G. — Oil  of  turpentine,  a convenient 
quantity ; lime-water,  a sufficient  quantity.  Shake  the  oil  thoroughly  with  six  times  its 
volume  of  lime-water,  and  introduce  the  mixture  into  a copper  still  connected  with  a 
well-cooled  condenser.  Then  distil  over  an  open  fire,  until  about  three-fourths  of  the 
oil  have  passed  over,  and  separate  the  clear  oil  from  the  water.  Keep  the  product  in 
well-stoppered  bottles,  in  a cool  place,  protected  from  light.  Rectified  oil  of  turpentine 
should  always  be  dispensed  when  oil  of  turpentine  is  required  for  internal  use.  11  It 
forms  a thin,  colorless  liquid,  having  the  specific  gravity,  0.855  to  0.865  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.), 
and  the  boiling-point  about  160°  C.  (320°  F.).  Its  alcoholic  solution  should  be  neutral 
to  litmus-paper.  If  about  10  Cc.  of  the  oil  be  evaporated  in  a capsule  on  a water-bath, 
no  weighable  residue  should  be  left. — U.  S.}  P.  G. 

Composition. — When  perfectly  pure,  oil  of  turpentine  is  free  from  oxygen  and  has 
the  composition  C10Hlf>.  On  being  distilled  in  the  presence  of  sulphuric  acid  it  is  con- 
verted into  several  isomeric  or  polymeric  oils,  among  which  are  terebene  and  colophene , the 
latter  boiling  at  310°  C.  (590°  F.)  and  showing  a blue  fluorescence;  it  is  also  obtained  on 
the  dry  distillation  of  rosin.  By  acting  with  sodium  on  turpentine  hydrochlorate  Letts 
(1879)  obtained  turpenyl , C,0Hn,  a solid  white  volatile  compound,  and  diturpenyl , C20H;U, 
which  is  liquid  and  has  a higher  boiling-point. 

Allied  Products.-^TEREBENE,  C10H16.  It  is  a derivative  of  oil  of  turpentine,  produced  by  the 
action  of  heat  and  of  concentrated  sulphuric  acid  or  phosphoric  anhydride.  It  is  a colorless 


1158 


OLEUM  terebinthinm 


volatile  oil,  without  influence  on  polarized  light,  has  a rather  agreeable  thyme-like  odor,  the  den- 
sity .864  at  8°  C.  (46.4°  F.),  and  the  boiling-point  156°  C.  (312.8°  F.),  and  acquires  with  iodine  a 
dark-green,  opaque  appearance.  It  combines  with  hydrochloric  acid  gas,  forming  two  liquid  oils, 
one  of  which  is  heavier  than  water. 

Auietene,  C7H16.  This  is  the  volatile  oil  obtained  from  the  terebinthinate  exudation  of  Pinus 
Sabiniana,  Douglas , the  nut  pine  or  digger  pine  of  California.  According  to  Wenzell  (1872),  the 
crude  oil  is  colorless,  and  commences  to  boil  at  101°  C.,  the  thermometer  gradually  rising  to 
1 15°  C.  (239°  F.).  Pure  abietene  boils  at  101°  C.,  has  a strong  penetrating  orange-like  odor,  is 
highly  inflammable,  very  volatile,  of  the  spec.  grav.  .694  at  16.5°  C.,  soluble  in  5 parts  by  measure 
of  95  per  cent,  alcohol,  dissolves  freely  iodine  and  bromine,  and  yields  with  chlorine  a substitu- 
tion-compound boiling  at  260°  C.  Thorpe  (1879)  found  it  to  have  the  composition  of  heptane , 
C7II16,  to  boil  at  98.42°  C.,  and  to  be  slightly  dextrogyre. 

The  volatile  oil  of  Pinus  ponderosa,  Douglas , of  California,  which  was  examined  by  Sadtler 
(1879),  seems  to  have  the  same  composition. 

Action  and  Uses. — Its  local  operation  is  that  of  an  irritant,  causing  pain,  redness, 
and  even  vesication.  A case  is  recorded  in  which  friction  of  the  sound  skin  with  the 
oil  produced  an  erythematous  eruption  in  parts  not  rubbed,  and  also  was  detected  in  the 
urine  (Arc/i.  gen.,  Apr.  1886,  p.  477).  In  man  the  prolonged  inhalation  of  its  vapors 
produces  vertigo,  impaired  vision,  pain  in  the  loins,  strangury,  and  bloody  urine,  and,  if 
they  are  very  concentrated,  collapse.  In  females  menorrhagia  and  dysmenorrhoea  are 
sometimes  added.  Workmen  when  first  exposed  to  its  emanations  suffer  from  headache, 
unsteady  gait,  irritability,  smarting  of  the  eyes,  and  lachrymation,  impaired  vision  (par- 
ticularly by  artificial  light),  coryza,  cough,  granular  pharyngitis,  vomiting,  and  indiges- 
tion. Gradually,  however,  these  symptoms  subside  and  a tolerance  of  its  action  is  estab- 
lished (Dull  de  therap .,  xcvi.  508).  The  internal  administration  of  large  doses  of  the 
oil  has  produced  heat  in  the  stomach,  vertigo,  confusion  of  mind,  extreme  thirst,  stran- 
gury, and  a frequent  discharge  of  urine  exhaling  an  odor  of  violets.  It  is  secreted  with 
the  milk.  Prevost  and  Binet  include  this  oil  and  its  derivatives,  terpinol  and  terpine, 
among  the  substances  that  increase  the  secretion  of  bile.  The  bowels  are  not  disturbed. 
Sometimes  it  causes  itching  and  diaphoresis,  and  occasionally  a roseolous  or  erythematous 
eruption.  Excessive  or  poisonous  doses  occasion  graver  symptoms.  Thus,  when  6 
ounces  were  taken  by  a woman  her  body  was  found  in  a state  of  opisthotonos,  the  pupils 
were  dilated,  and  the  brain,  lungs,  stomach,  and  heart  were  gorged  with  blood.  Yet  a 
child  aged  fourteen  months  recovered  after  swallowing  4 ounces  of  the  oil.  It  is  recorded 
that  the  air  of  a cellar  where  turpentine  was  stored,  and  in  which  a boy  was  nearly 
asphyxiated,  was  found  to  be  nearly  deprived  of  its  oxygen.  Many  instances  of  its  nar- 
cotic action  are  on  record.  (Compare  Begbie,  Works , p.  283). 

Oil  of  turpentine  has  been  used  in  almost  every  form  of  hsemorrhage , but  most  suc- 
cessfully when  the  bleeding  was  passive.  The  special  affections  include  epistaxis , haem- 
aturia , menorrhagia , post-partum  haemorrhage,  purpura , and  the  multiple  haemorrhages 
occurring  under  the  influence  of  the  haemorrhagic  diathesis.  Even  in  external  and  trau- 
matic haemorrhages  it  has  proved  efficient.  For  example,  in  epistaxis  when  applied  on 
pledgets  of  lint.  In  the  treatment  of  bleeding  wounds  a mixture  of  equal  parts  of  this 
oil  and  of  linseed  or  olive  oil  should  be  applied  after  thoroughly  cleansing  the  part,  which 
should  then  be  sealed  by  appropriate  dressings.  Its  efficacy  justifies  the  opinion  of  John 
Hunter,  who  termed  it  ;;  the  best,  if  not  the  only  true,  styptic.”  A cure  of  aneurism 
has  even  been  attributed  to  its  internal  administration  ( Times  and  Gaz ..  Nov.  1883, 
p.  543). 

I n puerperal  fever  this  medicine  once  enjoyed  a high  repute,  which  it  has  in  a great 
measure  lost  at  the  present  time.  For  the  varying  estimates  of  its  value  a reason  may 
probably  be  found  in  the  indiscriminate  manner  of  its  employment.  When  it  was  pre- 
scribed in  cases  marked  by  a typhoid  state  in  which  excessive  tympanites  existed,  there 
is  no  reasonable  ground  for  doubting  that  it  often  successfully  combated  the  nervous  and 
cardiac  depression  of  the  disease,  and,  by  lessening  the  distension  of  the  abdomen,  dimin- 
ished the  mechanical  hindrance  to  hasmatosis.  For  the  latter  purpose  it  was  applied  as 
an  epithenl  to  the  abdomen,  as  well  as  administered  internally.  This  judgment  appears 
to  be  justified  by  its  recognized  effects  in  other  febrile  affections  of  a typhoid  type.  In 
typhus , for  example,  it  is  of  great  utility  both  internally  and  externally — not  only  for  its 
power  of  arousing  the  sluggish  functions  generally,  but  especially  for  combating  the  pul- 
monary congestion  which  is  the  gravest  of  the  usual  incidents  of  the  disease.  In  typhoid 
fever , besides  the  general  influences  already  mentioned,  it  is  not  only  one  of  the  most 
efficient  remedies  for  intestinal  tympanites,  as  in  the  cases  referred  to,  but  it  also  favor- 
ably controls  the  bronchial  catarrh,  and,  in  the  advanced  stages,  probably  exerts  a local 


OLEUM  TEREBIXTIIIXsE. 


1159 


stimulant  action  upon  the  intestinal  ulcers  and  checks  the  tendency  to  haemorrhage  from 
them.  So,  too,  in  yellow  fever  of  a low  type  it  may  operate  not  only  by  its  general  stim- 
ulation, but  also  by  its  direct  action  upon  the  stomach,  tending  to  control  the  haemorrhage 
which  is  so  grave  a symptom  in  that  disease.  Its  possible  action  in  promoting  the  uri- 
nary secretion  in  this  fever  should  not  be  overlooked.  In  tympanites,  from  whatever 
cause  arising,  it  may  become  a valuable  auxiliary  in  the  treatment,  whether  adminis- 
tered by  the  mouth  and  rectum  or  applied  to  the  skin  of  the  abdomen.  When  given  inter- 
nally for  the  relief  of  this  symptom  it  should  generally  be  associated  with  a purgative,  and 
especially  with  castor  oil.  The  various  disorders  of  the  alimentary  canal  in  children 
attended  with  diarrhoea,  colic,  and  flatulence  are  often  benefited  by  this  oil,  and  particu- 
larly the  subacute  or  the  chronic  form  of  cholera  infantum.  It  is  most  efficient  in  the 
treatment  of  tsenise , and  indeed  in  that  of  other  intestinal  worms,  when  a full  dose  of  it  is 
shortly  followed  by  one  of  castor  oil.  A disadvantage  of  this  treatment  is,  however, 
that  as  large  doses  of  the  oil  are  required  they  are  apt  to  give  rise  to  colic,  if  not  to 
strangury. 

Oil  of  turpentine  has  been  supposed  to  dissolve  biliary  concretions,  and  in  some  cases  it 
has,  when  associated  with  sulphuric  ether,  appeared  to  favor  their  discharge.  It  seems 
more  probable  that  it  should  tend  to  prevent  the  formation  of  gall-stones  than  to  dissolve 
them  when  once  formed.  Experiments  appear  to  show  that  the  oil  increases  the  secre- 
tion of  bile,  and  in  this  manner  it  may  promote  the  discharge  of  retained  calculi.  Its 
diuretic  virtues  have  caused  it  to  be  occasionally  used  to  promote  the  expulsion  of  uri- 
nary concretions , and  for  this  purpose  it  is  said  to  have  been  efficacious  in  the  form  of 
baths  of  the  vapor  of  oil  of  turpentine  (Br^mond).  Impregnating  the  urine,  it  becomes 
a suitable  remedy  for  catarrh  of  the  urinary  jiassages  and  for  debility  or  paralysis  of  the 
bladder ; and,  very  probably,  in  females  this  stimulation  has  served  to  cure  amenorrlioea 
and  to  excite  uterine  contractions  during  labor.  For  these  purposes,  however,  the  oil  is 
best  administered  by  the  rectum  ; but  for  the  former  of  the  two,  as  well  as  for  menorrha- 
gia depending  upon  general  atony,  the  medicine  may  be  given  by  the  lungs  or  by  the 
stomach. 

Although  the  modus  operandi  of  this  medicine  in  sciatica  is  totally  unknown,  its  cura- 
tive power  is  none  the  less  certain.  It  has  stood  the  test  of  a century’s  experience. 
Probably  no  other  remedy  is  comparable  with  it  in  chronic  examples  of  this  painful  and 
crippling  affection.  Some  difference  of  opinion  exists  concerning  the  proper  dose  which 
should  be  given,  some  prescribing  -i-  ounce  of  it  at  bedtime  for  several  successive  nights, 
and  others  a dose  of  30  drops  three  times  a day.  The  latter  is  to  be  preferred  at  first. 
It  may  be  gradually  increased  if  necessary.  The  cases  which  are  benefited  by  this  treat- 
ment are  more  apt  to  occur  in  feeble  than  in  robust  persons,  and  are  the  effect  of  a pro- 
longed rather  than  an  abrupt  action  of  cold  and  dampness.  It  has  also  been  used  in 
facial  neuralgia,  but  apparently  with  inferior  results.  Its  utility  in  syphilitic  iritis  is 
well  established ; it  has  generally  been  employed  as  a substitute  for  mercury  in  cases  for 
which  this  medicine  was  ill  adapted. 

In  all  forms  of  chronic  bronchitis  oil  of  turpentine  has,  like  other  terebinthinates,  been 
largely  used,  formerly  by  internal  administration,  and  more  recently  by  inhalation.  It  is 
especially  useful  in  both  ways  in  cases  of  fetid  bronchitis  and  gangrene  of  the  lung,  in  both, 
doubtless,  by  stimulating  the  tissues  to  a more  healthy  action  rather  than  by  its  disinfect- 
ant virtue.  The  superiority  of  oil  of  turpentine  in  the  latter  affection  is  certainly  due  to 
its  stimulant  action.  An  atomized  solution  of  15  drops  of  oil  of  turpentine  in  sufficient 
water  is  recommended  to  be  inhaled  for  about  10  minutes  every  hour,  day  and  night, 
in  the  treatment  of  diphtheria  (Edel).  Bosse  claims  to  have  treated  this  disease  very 
successfully  by  oil  of  turpentine  given  internally  in  doses  of  2 or  3 drachms  a day  ( Times 
and  Gaz.,  Jan.,  1881,  p.  101).  Satlow  states  that  the  first  effect  of  the  oil  is  to  remove 
the  fetor,  and  then  to  render  the  exudation  looser,  softer,  and  thinner,  and  cause  it  to  be 
thrown  off,  leaving  no  trace  behind  it.  The  full  action  of  the  remedy  occupies  three  or 
four  days.  Of  forty-three  cases  treated  by  Hatlow,  only  one  died,  and  that  was  of  a para- 
lytic sequel  of  the  disease.  He  advises  that  only  freshly-prepared  oil  be  employed,  and 
that  doses  to  the  extent  of  a teaspoonful  daily  should  be  given  to  children  under  two 
years  of  age,  and  of  a dessertspoonful  to  those  between  that  age  and  five  years,  and  to 
adults  a tablespoonful,  and  that  each  dose  should  be  followed  by  a draught  of  milk  ( Cert - 
tralbl.f  d.  ges.  Therapie,  i.  447).  It  is  worthy  of  remark,  first,  that  the  use  of  this  mode 
of  treatment  was  discovered  through  a child  affected  with  diphtheria  having  accidentally 
swallowed  a tablespoonful  of  oil  of  turpentine;  and,  second,  that  the  most  plausible 
explanation  of  its  utility  is,  that  it  not  only  acts  directly  upon  the  membrane,  but  also  as 


1160 


OLEUM  TER EB IN THINJE. 


a stimulant  to  the  whole  system,  as  it  does  in  adynamic  states  generally.  It  has  naturally 
been  referred  to  the  power  of  oil  of  turpentine  to  destroy  disease-germs,  but  the  explana- 
tion is  as  inadequate  as  it  is  unnecessary.  Moreover,  it  is  not  clear  that  either  these 
alleged  results  or  more  recent  ones  are  incontrovertible.  Thus,  while  Roesse  reported 
(. Therap . Monatsheft Oct.  1887)  that  this  oil  in  drachm  doses  three  times  a day  was 
very  useful  in  a large  number  of  cases  of  diphtheria,  it  appears  that  along  with  it  he  pre- 
scribed sodium  salicylate  internally,  ice-bags  to  the  throat,  and  strong  liquid  food  and 
wine,  thus  rendering  very  doubtful  whether  the  oil  of  turpentine  promoted  or  hindered 
the  result.  The  vapors  of  this  oil  are  also  reported  to  be  very  efficient  in  whooping  cough. 
The  accidental  discovery  of  the  power  of  oil  of  turpentine  to  prevent  phosphorus-poison- 
ing has  saved  many  lives.  The  immediate  administration  of  the  antidote  is  of  course 
desirable,  not  only  to  check  the  local  action  of  the  phosphorus,  but  also  to  prevent  its 
absorption  in  a dangerous  form.  About  twelve  hours  has  been  assigned  as  the  limit 
within  which  the  oil  is  efficacious.  It  is  alleged  that  oil  of  turpentine  which  has  become 
oxygenated  by  long  exposure  to  the  air  is  the  most  efficient,  but  results  do  not  entirely 
agree  upon  this  point.  It  must  not  be  prescribed  in  an  oily  or  albuminous  vehicle,  such 
as  white  of  egg,  milk,  soup,  etc.,  and  neither  mucilaginous  nor  alcoholic  drinks  should  be 
allowed,  but  only  water.  If  possible  the  oil  should  be  given  pure,  floated  on  water  or  in 
capsules.  If  it  cannot  be  retained  by  the  stomach,  it  may  be  thrown  into  the  rectum, 
and  its  absorption  by  the  skin  from  liniments  and  epithems,  and  by  the  lungs  from  an 
atomized  preparation  or  simply  from  the  air  of  the  chamber  saturated  with  the  fumes  of 
the  oil,  may  be  employed  as  supplementary  means.  The  dose  of  oil  of  turpentine  in  the 
cases  now  considered  is  about  dm.  0.60  (gtt.  x)  every  hour. 

Oil  of  turpentine  has  long  been  employed  externally  as  a stimulant,  rubefacient,  and 
counter-irritant  in  neuralgia  and  in  acute  and  chronic  rheumatism.  It  is  generally  mixed 
with  olive  oil,  chloroform,  camphor,  narcotic  extracts,  etc.  Baths  of  the  vapor  of  the  oil 
are  the  most  efficient  means  of  applying  it,  or  baths  of  hot  watery  vapor  (104°  to  113° 
F.)  with  which  a fine  spray  of  oil  of  turpentine  is  mingled.  Warm  water  baths  in  which 
has  been  dissolved  a mixture  of  8 ounces  of  turpentine  and  2 pounds  of  washing  soda 
have  also  been  used  with  good  effect.  The  oil  is  of  singular  virtue  in  relieving  tympanites 
and  colic  in  various  diseases,  but  especially  when  the  intestinal  distension  is  owing  chiefly 
to  atony  of  the  bowels,  as  in  typhoid  fever.  It  is  best  applied,  mixed  with  olive  oil,  to 
the  abdomen,  which  should  then  be  covered  with  flannel  dipped  in  hot  water  and  wrung 
nearly  dry.  In  the  treatment  of  burns  this  oil  is  most  efficient.  The  affected  part  should 
first  be  bathed  with  the  oil,  and  then  covered  with  soft  lint  saturated  with  liniment  of 
turpentine  or  ointment  of  turpentine,  so  as  thoroughly  to  exclude  the  air.  It  is  useful  in 
the  treatment  of  rhus  poisoning.  Turpentine  epithems  are  also  of  marked  utility  in  inflam- 
mations of  the  respiratory  organs,  including  laryngitis , bronchitis , pneumonia , and  pleurisy. 
They  probably  act  both  as  revulsives  and  through  the  absorption  of  the  oil.  They  have 
also  been  found  efficient  in  the  treatment  of  phlegmasia  alba  dolens.  Traumatic  erysipelas 
has  been  treated  advantageously  by  the  ointment  just  mentioned,  and  also  by  simple 
lotions  of  oil  of  turpentine.  The  same  method  is  equally  applicable  in  cases  of  frost-bite 
and  of  superficial  gangrene.  It  is  also  of  use  in  relieving  engorgement  of  the  mammae  at 
the  commencement  of  lactation,  and  perhaps  of  preventing  the  formation  of  abscess  It 
appears  to  lessen  the  secretion  of  milk.  An  emulsion  containing  equal  parts  of  oil  of 
turpentine  and  tincture  of  camphor  is  said  to  be  an  efficient  dressing  for  carbuncles. 
Indeed,  there  are  few  ulcers  of  an  indolent  character  that  are  not  benefited  by  this  oil, 
applied  either  alone  or  in  an  ointment  or  cerate,  as  in  the  simple  or  compound  resin 
cerate.  Ulcers  resulting  from  mercurial  salivation  tend  to  heal  after  being  touched  by  the 
pure  oil  or  washed  with  an  emulsion  containing  it.  It  is  one  of  the  best  stimulant  appli- 
cations to  sinuses,  especially  to  fistula \ in  ano.  It  has  been  used  successfully  in  the  treat- 
ment of  scabies  and  in  ringworm  of  the  scalp , in  the  one  case  destroying  the  Acarus  scabiei, 
and  in  the  other  the  Microphyton  tonsurans.  In  the  latter  affection  the  part  ought  to  be 
first  washed  with  the  oil  of  turpentine,  aijd  then  with  carbolic-acid  soap,  after  which  the 
growth  may  be  touched  with  tincture  of  iodine.  Scrofulous  ozaena  is  benefited  by  appli- 
cations of  this  oil  in  the  form  of  a liquid  or  a vapor.  Foulis  states  that  the  fetor  of 
putrefying  substances  will  not  adhere  to  the  hands  if  they  are  anointed  with  oil  of  tur- 
pentine ( Edinb . Med.  Jour.,  xxvi.  133). 

The  dose  of  oil  of  turpentine  as  a stimulant  is  from  Gm.  0.30—2  (gtt.  v-xxx)  three 
times  a day.  Such  doses  are  conveniently  administered  in  gelatin  capsules.  As  an 
anthelmintic  from  Gm.  8-16  (fspj-iv)  may  be  given  at  intervals  of  half  an  hour  until 
three  or  four  doses  are  taken.  These  doses  are  usually  prescribed  in  an  emulsion,  with 


OLEUM  THE  OB  ROM  A TIS. 


1161 


the  addition  of  oil  of  cinnamon,  cajeput,  or  rosemary  to  diminish  nausea.  Besides  the 
rubefacient  preparations  above  mentioned,  a very  efficient  one  may  be  made  with  equal 
weights  of  oil  of  turpentine,  acetic  acid,  and  liniment  of  camphor. 

OLEUM  THEOBROMATIS,  U.  S,9  Jir, — Oil  of  Theobroma. 

Oleum  theobromse , U.  S.,  1880  ; Oleum  concretum  e semtne  theobromse  cacao , F.  Cod. ; 
Oleum  ( Butyi'uni ) cacao , P.  G. — Butter  of  cacao , E. ; Beurre  de  cacao , Fr.  ; Kahaobut- 
ter,  G. ; Manteca  ( Aceite ) de  cacao.  Sp. 

The  fixed  oil  expressed  from  the  seed  of  Theobroma  Cacao,  LinnL 

Nat.  Ord. — Sterculiaceae,  Buettneriem. 

Preparation. — In  the  manufacture  of  chocolate  a portion  of  the  cacao-seeds  are 
deprived  of  their  fat  by  removing  the  shells,  heating  the  kernels  to  about  70°  C.  (158° 
F.),  and  pressing  them  between  hot  iron  plates ; the  expressed  fat  is  usually  run  into 
rectangular  moulds  and  allowed  to  congeal.  The  yield  from  the  different  varieties  of 
cacao  is  from  35  to  45  per  cent. 

Properties. — Cacao  butter  is  a yellowish-white  fat.  gradually  turning  white  by  age. 
It  is  sufficiently  hard  at  ordinary  temperatures  to  be  broken  into  smaller  pieces,  but 
softens  by  the  warmth  of  the  hand  and  melts  when  taken  in  the  mouth.  It  has  an 
agreeable  odor  and  a bland  chocolate-like  taste,  dissolves  in  ether,  acetic  ether,  and  100 
parts  of  cold  absolute,  and  in  20  parts  of  boiling,  alcohol,  separating  again  from  the 
latter  solution  on  cooling,  with  the  exception  of  a small  portion  which  remains  dissolved. 
Its  specific  gravity  is  0.07  to  0.98,  but  is  given  by  some  authors  as  low  as  0.900.  It  is 
brittle  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  and  melts  between  30°  and  35°  C.  (U.  S.  P .,  P.  Gf),  forming 
a pale-yellow,  transparent  liquid  which  congeals  at  20.5°  C.  (69°  F.),  the  temperature 
rising  to  about  26.5  C.  (79.7°  F.).  The  fusing-point  of  cacao  butter  obtained  from 
different  commercial  varieties  of  seeds  has  been  determined  by  Trojanowski  (1875)  and 
Lamhofer  (1877),  and  found  to  vary  between  30°  C.  (86°  F.)  and  33°  C.  (91.4°  F.) 
Pelouze  and  Boudet  observed  it  in  one  instance  as  low  as  29°  C.  (84.2°  F.) 

Composition. — Cacao  butter  is  easily  saponified,  and  yields  glycerin,  oleic,  stearic, 
and  a little  palmitic  acid  (Stenhouse,  Specht,  and  Gossman).  Ivingzett  (1877)  pointed 
out  the  existence  in  this  fat  of  an  acid  having  the  composition  C64H12?02,  for  which  he 
proposed  the  name  of  theobromic  acid.  This  acid  could  not  be  detected  by  Vander  Becke 
(1880)  and  C.  Traub  (1883)  ; the  latter,  in  addition  to  the  acids  mentioned  above,  deter- 
mined also  the  presence  of  lauric  and  arachic  acids,  and  regards  the  firm  consistence  and 
low  melting-point  to  be  due  to  the  proportions  in  which  these  glycerides  are  combined. 

Adulterations. — When  mixed  with  other  solid  fats  the  fusing-point  and  specific 
gravity  do  not  afford  reliable  tests  for  determining  such  admixtures.  The  presence  of 
tallow  may  be  detected  by  burning  the  oil  with  a wick  for  a short  time,  and  then  extin- 
guishing the  flame,  when  a peculiar  tallow-like  odor  will  be  observed.  For  the  detection 
of  adulterations  Bjbrkland  (1864)  proposed  the  test  incorporated  into  the  Pharmacopoeia, 
as  follows:  “If  1 6m.  of  oil  of  theobroma  be  dissolved  in  3 Cc.  of  ether,  in  a test-tube 
at  a temperature  of  17°  C.  (63°  F.),  and  the  tube  subsequently  plunged  into  water  at  0° 
C.  (32°  F.),  the  liquid  should  not  become  turbid  nor  deposit  a granular  mass  in  less  than 
three  minutes;  and  if  the  mixture,  after  congealing,  be  exposed  to  a temperature  of  15° 
C.  (59°  F.),  it  should  gradually  form  a perfectly  clear  liquid  (absence  of  paraffin,  wax, 
stearin,  tallow,  etc.).”  If  pure,  cacao  butter  will  separate  granules  in  not  less  than  3 
minutes;  if  adulterated  with  tallow  or  suet,  a turbidity  will  appear  at  once  or  within  21 
minutes,  according  to  the  quantity  of  the  adulterant,  of  which  5 per  cent,  may  thus  be 
detected.  When  the  congealed  mixture  is  exposed  to  a temperature  of  about  15°  C. 
(59°  F.),  it  will  gradually  become  clear  again  if  the  cacao  butter  was  pure,  but  not  if 
it  was  adulterated.  Trojanowski  and  Lamhofer  proved  the  value  of  this  test.  Accord- 
ing to  Lamhofer.  petroleum  benzin  may  be  substituted  for  the  ether  with  nearly  identical 
results,  except  that  the  pure  oil  separates  rather  more  slowly  and  is  always  granular, 
while  other  fats  render  the  entire  liquid  cloudy.  “ The  solution  of  1 part  of  oil  of  theo- 
broma in  2 parts  of  ether  should  remain  clear  if  kept  for  a day  at  a temperature  of  12° 
to  15°  C.  (53.6°  to  59°  F.)  ” — P.  G.  This  is  a modification  of  the  test  proposed  by 
Ramsperger  (1876),  who  states  also  that  aniline  shows  adulterations  with  tallow  and  wax 
almost  as  well  as  ether  does. 

Allied  Fats. — More  or  less  odorous  fats  are  expressed  from  the  seeds  of  several  species  of  Bassia 
(nat.  ord.  Sapotaceae).  Bassia  longifolia,  Limit,  yields  the  greenish  elloopa  or  elloopa  oil.  Bassia 
butyracea,  Roxburgh,  gives  the  tallow-like  fulwa  butter.  The  mahwah  butter  melts  at  about  45° 


1162 


OLEUM  THY  MI. 


C.  (113°  F.),  is  greenish  or  yellowish,  and  comes  from  Bassia  latifolia,  Roxburgh.  These  fats 
come  from  India.  The  shea  butter , galam  butter , or  bambuk  butter  is  obtained  from  Bassia  (Buty- 
rospermum,  Kotschy)  Parkii,  De  Candolle , of  tropical  Africa.  It  is  pale-greenish  or  grayish,  has 
a cacao-like  odor  and  mild  taste,  and  melts  at  about  28°  C.  (82.4°  F.).  The  fleshy  mahwah-flowers 
are  used  as  food  and  for  distilling  a spirit ; when  dry  they  are  said  to  contain  50  per  cent,  of 
sugar. 

Mafura  Tallow  has  also  a cacao-like  odor  and  a mild  taste,  but  ic  is  a yellowish  color  and 
melts  at  42°  C.  (107.6°  F.).  It  is  obtained  by  boiling  the  seeds  of  Trichilia  emetica,  Vahl , s. 
Mafureira  oleifera,  Bertero  (nat.  ord.  Meliaceae),  of  tropical  East  Africa. 

Action  and  Uses. — Oil  of  theobroma  has  been  used  internally,  in  doses  of  Gm. 
1-2  (gr.  xv-xxx),  as  a nutrient  and  emollient  remedy  in  cases  of  chronic  affections  of 
the  lungs  and  bowels , and  externally  as  a dressing  for  excoriated  surfaces,  wounds , etc. 
Its  mildness  renders  it  superior  to  lard  for  the  latter  purposes,  and  it  is  more  emollient 
than  spermaceti.  It  is  the  most  eligible  material  for  making  suppositories.  Its  slight 
tendency  to  become  oxidized  fits  it  to  protect  surgical  and  other  steel  instruments  from 
being  corroded  by  exposure  to  the  air. 

OLEUM  THYMI,  U.  S.,  P.  G.— Oil  of  Thyme. 

Huile  volatile  ( Essence ) de  thyme , Fr. ; Thymianol , G.  ; Esencia  de  tomilla , Sp. 

The  volatile  oil  distilled  from  the  leaves  and  flowering  tops  of  Thymus  vulgaris, 

Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Labiatae. 

Preparation. — The  flowering  herb  is  distilled  with  water  or  steam.  The  yield  varies 
between  1 and  1 per  cent.  The  oil  is  largely  produced  in  France,  and  enters  commerce 
either  in  the  crude  state  as  huile  rouge  de  thyme  ( red  oil  of  thyme')  or  rectified  as  huile 
blanche  de  thyme  ( white  oil  of  thyme).  The  red  oil  is  frequently  sold  as  oil  of  origanum. 

Properties. — Crude  oil  of  thyme  is  of  a deep  reddish-brown  color ; the  rectified  oil 
is  colorless,  yellowish,  or  yellowish-red,  and  is  the  kind  directed  by  the  pharmocopoeias. 
It  has  a strong  aromatic  odor  and  a pungent,  warm,  and  afterward  cooling  taste,  dissolves 
in  one-half  its  weight  of  alcohol,  forming  a clear  solution,  neutral  to  test-paper.  It  is 
soluble  in  all  proportions  in  carbon  disulphide  and  glacial  acetic  acid.  It  varies  in  density 
between  0.900  and  0.930.  It  does  not  fulminate  with  iodine. 

Composition. — The  more  volatile  portion  of  oil  of  thyme  consists  of  two  hydro- 
carbons— cymene  C10H14,  and  thymene  C10H16.  The  former  is  also  a constituent  of  oil  of 
cumin  (see  p.  559).  The  latter  boils  between  160°  and  165°  C.  (220°  and  329°  F.),  is 
levogyre,  and  yields  with  hydrochloric  acid  gas  a liquid  compound.  The  stearopten  is 
thymol , C10H14O,  which  is  probably  formed  by  oxidation  ; at  least,  Lallemand  (1854) 
reports  having  received  considerable  quantities  of  thymol  by  passing  air  through  the 
mixed  hydrocarbons  for  several  months.  By  agitating  the  commercial  oil  with  soda  solu- 
tion, Gerrard  (1878)  obtained  only  variable  quantities  of  an  oily  liquid,  but  no  solid  com- 
pound, and  on  exposure  to  a low  temperature  no  thymol  could  be  obtained ; he  concludes 
from  this  that  the  thymol  is  probably  frequently  extracted  from  the  oil.  A similar 
experience  was  reported  by  J.  L.  Lemberger  (1882),  who  obtained  from  the  rectified  oil 
less  than  1 per  cent.,  while  two  samples  of  red  oil  yielded  16.67  and  38.75  per  cent,  of 
crude  thymol. 

Tests. — The  presence  of  thymol,  according  to  Hager  (1882),  is  conveniently  ascer- 
tained by  spreading  half  a drop  of  it,  by  means  of  a small  cork,  upon  a glass  slide,  so  as 
to  occupy  4 or  5 square  Cm.  The  thymol  begins  to  separate  within  three  or  four  min- 
utes in  the  central  portion  of  this  liquid,  in  numerous  minute  bodies  recognizable  by  the 
naked  eye  ; subsequently  they  appear  also  toward  the  margin,  but  less  numerous.  Under 
the  microscope  they  are  at  first  amorphous,  but  after  an  hour  or  two  are  easily  recog- 
nized as  crystals.  “ The  solution  of  oil  of  thyme  in  alcohol  should  not  be  colored 
yellowish-brown  on  the  addition  of  a drop  of  test-solution  of  ferric  chloride.” — P O. 
“ With  a drop  of  ferric  chloride  test-solution  the  oil  yields  a greenish-brown  color,  which 
changes  to  reddish.  If  1 Cc.  of  the  oil  be  shaken  with  10  Cc.  of  hot  water,  and,  after 
cooling,  the  liquid  be  passed  through  a wet  filter,  the  filtrate  should  not  assume,  with  a 
drop  of  ferric  chloride  test-solution,  a bluish  or  violet  color  (absence  of  phenol  or  car- 
bolic acid). — U.  S. 

Action,  and  Uses. — Garden  thyme  and  wild  thyme  have  long  been  used,  the  one 
as  a condiment  to  promote  the  digestion  of  pork,  goose,  and  other  fatty  meats,  and  to 
flavor  insipid  dishes ; the  other  as  a stimulant  in  various  nervous  disorders.  Exter- 


OLEUM  TIGLIL 


1163 


nally  it  was  applied  in  fomentations,  baths,  fumigations,  etc.,  to  relieve  muscular  rheuma- 
tism and  chronic  gout,  to  cure  scabies,  indolent  ulcers,  etc. 

According  to  Campardon  {Bull,  de  Therap .,  cvii.,  490),  when  given  to  animals  its  pri- 
mary action  is  that  of  a diffusible  stimulant ; but  if  the  dose  be  increased  it  causes  vom- 
iting. depression,  coldness,  and  death  by  exhaustion.  In  man  also,  the  daily  dose  of  5 or 
6 drops  acts  as  a general  stimulant,  and  when  the  oil  is  continued  in  increasing  doses  it 
renders  all  the  functions  more  active  and  energetic.  The  urine  increases  and  acquires  a 
violet  odor,  the  stools  grow  firmer  and  less  frequent,  and  all  morbid  discharges  are 
diminished.  If  the  daily  quantity  be  gradually  augmented  from  6 to  12  drops,  the 
effects  are  apt  to  be  intensified,  and  the  odor  of  the  medicine  may  be  perceived  on  the 
breath  and  the  skin.  Sometimes  the  latter  presents  erythematous  or  papular  eruptions 
and  the  fauces  become  dry. 

The  author  cited  finds  this  oil  a powerful  aid,  in  the  treatment  of  chlorosis , to  the  more 
radical  remedy,  iron,  particularly  in  cases  of  which  the  dominant  character  is  torpor 
rather  than  excitability.  In  this,  as  on  the  points  that  follow,  he  is  only  reproducing  the 
long-established  views  of  treating  chronic  and  subacute  rheumatism  of  the  fibrous  cover- 
ings of  the  joints  and  muscles,  and  the  closely  related  cases  of  neuralgia  from  cold.  The 
substitutive  action  of  the  oil  is  shown  in  its  cures  of  bronchitis , diarrhoea , gonorrhoea , 
gleet , lencorrhoea , and  vesical  catarrh , in  all  of  which  affections  it  resembles  copaiba  in  its 
action.  Externally  the  oil  is  applied  in  baths  and  lotions  (by  mixing  with  water  or 
alcohol  a sufficient  quantity  of  powdered  sodium  carbonate  previously  impregnated 
with  the  oil)  to  the  treatment  of  scabies , muscular  rheumatism , etc.  ; and  injections  for 
proffuvia  of  the  genital  organs ; to  correct  the  foetor  of  certain  secretions,  of  gangrene , 
etc.  Applied  on  cotton,  it  mitigates  the  pain  of  toothache,  earache , etc. 

The  essential  oil  is  most  conveniently  given  in  capsules,  owing  to  its  acrid  taste  and 
the  eructations  it  causes.  Campardon  advises  a pill  containing  oil  of  thyme  and  almond 
soap,  of  each  2 grains,  and  marshmallow  in  powder,  q.  s. ; the  pill  to  be  covered  with 
balsam  of  Tolu. 


OLEUM  TIGLH,  U.  S.— Croton  Oil. 

Oleum  crotonis,  Br.,  P.  G. ; Huile  de  croton , Tiglium , F.  Cod. ; Crotonol , G. ; Aceite  de 
grano  tiglia , Sp. 

The  fixed  oil  expressed  from  the  seeds  of  Croton  Tiglium,  Liniie , s.  Tiglium  officinale, 
Klotzsch.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 230. 

Nat.  Ord. — Euphorbiaceae. 

Origin. — This  species  of  croton  is  common  in  the  wild  state  as  well  as  cultivated 
throughout  Hindostan  and  soma  of  the  East  Indian  and  Phillipine  islands,  and  has  been 
introduced  into  Japan  and  other  countries.  It  has  alternate  petiolate,  acutely-ovate,  ser- 
rulate leaves,  and  terminal  racemes  of  unisexual  flowers.  The  fruit  is  a tricoccous  cap- 
sule, each  cell  containing  a single  seed. 

Semen  (Grana)  tiglii,  Semen  crotonis — Croton-seeds,  E. ; Graine  de  tilly,  Graine 
des  Moluques,  Petits  pignons  d’lnde,  Fr. ; Granatill,  Purgirkorner,*6r. ; Grano  tiglio,  Sp. 

The  seeds  are  about  12  Mm.  (1  inch)  long,  oblong,  flattened  upon  the  ventral  surface, 
and  marked  longitudinally  by  the  slightly  elevated  raphe.  The 
dorsal  surface  is  rounded.  Externally  the  seed  is  of  a gray-brown 
color,  mostly  more  or  less  mottled,  or  of  a nearly  uniform  blackish 
color  where  the  outer  coat  has  been  removed.  The  testa  is  brittle, 
and  encloses  an  oily  albumen  of  the  shape  of  the  seed  and  the 
thin  foliaceous  embryo.  The  seed  is  without  odor,  and  has  an  oily 
afterward  very  acrid  taste.  ( 

Preparation. — The  fixed  oil  is  obtained  in  India  and  in  Great 
Britain  by  subjecting  the  seeds  to  pressure.  The  yield  is  between 
oO  and  60,  or,  according  to  other  statements,  between  30  and  40  per  cent. ; the  former 
amount  probably  refers  to  the  kernels,  the  latter  to  the  seeds,  which  are  stated  to  yield 
from  33  to  36  per  cent,  of  their  weight  of  integuments. 

Properties. — Croton  oil  from  India  is  of  a pale-yellow  color ; that  made  in  England 
is  of  a more  or  less  deep  reddish-brown  hue,  the  darker  color  being  probably  due  to  the 
greater  age  of  the  seed  and  to  the  higher  temperature  at  which  the  oil  is  expressed.  It 
is  somewhat  viscid  and  slightly  fluorescent.  It  has  a slight,  peculiar,  somewhat  rancid 
odor,  and  a taste  which  is  at  first  mild,  but  afterward  acrid  and  burning.  Its  reaction  to 
test-paper  is  distinctly  acid,  and  its  consistence  rather  viscid.  It  dissolves  freely  in  ether, 


Fig.  201. 


roton-seed : lateral  and  ven- 
tral view,  and  longitudinal 
section,  showing  embryo. 


1164 


OLEUM  TIG  L II. 


chloroform,  carbon  disulphide,  and  fixed  and  volatile  oils,  and  varies  in  its  behavior  to 
alcohol,  according  to  Warrington  (1865)  being  more  soluble  in  that  menstruum  when  old 
and  partly  oxidized ; fresh  croton  oil  requires  about  60  parts  of  alcohol  for  solution.  H. 
Senier  (1878)  ascertained  that  alcohol  dissolves  from  freshly-expressed  croton  oil  20  per 
cent.,  and  from  such  over  three  years  old  60  per  cent.,  and  in  1883  showed  that  the 
portion  insoluble  in  alcohol  contains  the  purgative  principle,  while  the  vesicating  principle 
is  soluble  in  alcohol.  When  gently  heated  with  twice  its  volume  of  absolute  alcohol,  it 
yields  a clear  solution  from  which  on  cooling  the  oil  usually  separates.  The  oil  has  a 
specific  gravity  of  about  0.940  to  0.960.  At  a low  temperature  it  separates  white  granules 
of  fatty  acid  and  congeals  at  about  — 16°  C.  (3.2°  F.).  Exposed  to  air  it  becomes  more 
viscid,  perhaps  from  the  separation  of  fatty  acids,  and  not  from  the  presence  of  a drying 
oil,  although,  like  the  latter  it  is  not  solidified  when  in  contact  with  nitrous  acid ; this  test 
is  being  used  by  the  pharmacopoeia  for  the  detection  of  other  non-drying  oils.  The  appli- 
cation of  the  test  is  as  follows : 2 Cc.  of  the  oil  are  treated  with  1 Cc.  of  fuming  nitric 
acid  and  1 Cc.  of  water,  and  the  mixture  vigorously  shaken. 

Composition. -—The  fats  present  in  croton  oil  are  glycerides  of  stearic,  palmitic, 
myristic,  and  lauric  acids,  and  of  several  volatile  acids  of  the  same  series,  like  acetic, 
butyric,  and  valerianic  acid ; also  the  volatile  tvjlinic  odd , C5H802,  which  was  recognized 
by  Geuther  and  Frolich  (1870),  but  had  previously  been  observed  by  Schlippe  (1858), 
who  considered  it  to  be  identical  with  angelicic  acid.  However,  it  melts  at  64°  C.  (147° 
F.),  boils  at  198.5°  C.  (389.3°  F.),  and  is  identical  with  Frankland  and  Duppa’s  methyl- 
crotonic  acid.  In  the  fraction  boiling  above  the  temperature  named,  capronic,  oenanthyl- 
ic,  or  similar  acids  are  probably  present.  They  did  not  succeed  in  obtaining  from  croton 
oil  an  acid  having  the  composition  of  Schlippe’s  crotonic  add , C4H602.  E.  Schmitt  (1879) 
corroborated  these  statements,  and  found  among  the  volatile  acids  also  formic  acid. 
Schlippe’s  crotonol , C18H2804,  has  likewise  not  been  obtained  by  other  chemists ; it  was 
stated  to  be  a yellowish  viscid  mass  of  a faint  odor,  and  to  be  the  rubefacient  principle 
of  croton  oil.  The  drastic  rubefacient  properties,  according  to  Buchheim  (1873),  reside 
in  crotonoleic  add , which  is  present  in  the  free  state  and  as  glyceride,  and  which  seems  to 
be  related  to  ricinoleic  acid,  since,  like  the  latter,  it  yields  with  nitric  acid  oenanthic  acid, 
and  on  the  distillation  of  its  sodium  salt  gives  cenanthol.  But  H.  Senier  has  shown 
(1883)  that  the  oil  may  retain  its  purgative  action  and  may  be  deprived  of  vesicating 
properties  (see  above)  ; the  latter  do  not  reside  in  the  free  acids  present,  nor  in  any  basic 
constituent,  but  exist  in  a fat  which  is  not  readily  saponifiable,  and  yields  an  acid  of  low 
melting-point  and  forming  a lead  salt  soluble  in  ether. 

Tests. — The  process  of  Schlippe  for  preparing  crotonol  afforded  us  (1860)  the  means 
of  detecting  croton  oil  in  other  oils.  The  suspected  oil  is  agitated  with  a solution  of 
soda  or  potassa  in  dilute  alcohol ; the  alcoholic  liquid  is  separated,  neutralized  with  hydro- 
chloric acid,  and  a little  of  the  oily  layer  separating  is  applied  upon  the  arm,  when  in  a 
few  hours  redness  and  the  peculiar  pustular  eruption  will  appear.  Should  the  quantity 
be  small,  the  liquid  is  acidulated,  agitated  with  ether,  the  ether  evaporated,  and  the  resi- 
due applied.  Senier’s  observations  explain  the  rationale  of  this  process.  The  Br.  P. 
requires  croton  oil  tcf  be  entirely  soluble  in  alcohol. 

Allied  Oils. — (See  Curcas,  page  567.)  The  oil  obtained  by  carbon  disulphide  from  the  seeds 
of  Euphorbia  Lathyris,  Linn£,  has  been  recommended  by  Zander  (1878)  as  a cheaper  substitute 
for  croton  oil. 


Action  and  Uses. — A croton-seed,  when  chewed,  has  a sweet  and  oily  taste,  fol- 
lowed by  a bitter  and  acrid  savor  and  salivation  ; nausea,  eructation,  flatulent  distension 
of  the  abdomen,  colic,  and  diarrhoea  follow.  A single  seed  is  reported  in  one  case  to 
have  proved  fatal,  and  a portion  estimated  at  1 grain,  and  taken  on  an  empty  stomach, 
caused  burning  in  the  throat,  severe  Golic,  and  frequent  watery  stools  (Therapent.  Monats- 
hefte,  iii.  89).  The  oil,  in  the  dose  of  1 drop,  occasions  more  or  less  of  an  acrid  and 
burning  sensation  in  the  fauces  and  oesophagus,  a sense  of  warmth  in  the  stomach, 
nausea,  and  sometimes  vomiting.  In  an  hour  or  two  some  gurgling  or  slight  colic  is  per- 
ceived in  the  bowels,  followed  somewhat  suddenly  by  a watery  stool  with  tenesmus,  and  heat 
about  the  anus.  Within  twenty-four  hours  eight  or  ten  more  stools  follow,  and  there  is  but 
little  general  disturbance  of  the  economy,  except  through  weakness.  Sometimes,  instead 
of  producing  evacuations,  the  oil  causes  epigastric  uneasiness  and  oppression,  palpitation 
of  the  heart,  headache,  feverishness,  perspiration  and  sleep.  It  would  appear  that  the 
acrid  principle  of  the  oil  is  not  the  sole  cause  of  its  cathartic  operation,  for  even  after 
being  thoroughly  washed  with  alcohol  and  rendered  mild  to  the  taste,  as  well  as  incapable 


OLEUM  TIG  LIT. 


1165 


of  pustulating  the  skin,  it  is  still  strongly  purgative.  (Senier,  Am.  Jour.  Phar .,  lvi.  22). 
When  given  in  enema  in  the  dose  of  3 or  4 drops  croton  oil  operates  purgatively. 

In  excessive  doses  this  oil  may  act  as  a violent  and  fatal  poison,  producing  severe  pain 
and  general  collapse,  without  loss  of  consciousness.  After  death  no  lesion  of  the  stomach 
or  intestines  may  be  found. 

Externally , croton  oil  rubbed  upon  the  skin  occasionally  produces  purgation.  Its  ordi- 
nary effects  are,  however,  local.  In  general,  it  brings  out,  after  a few  hours,  an  eruption 
of  minute  red  pimples,  which  are  always  more  numerous  in  proportion  to  the  vascularity 
and  delicacy  of  the  skin,  and  are  gradually  converted  into  pustules,  generally  of  an  acu- 
minated or  rounded  shape,  but  some  are  flattened  and  umbilicated ; many  are  confluent. 
A red  areola  surrounds  each  of  them,  and  they  cause  severe  burning  and  itching.  They 
augment  for  three  or  four  days,  and  then  remain  stationary.  Some  break  and  others 
wither  away.  If  numerous,  they  may  form  thick  and  extensive  crusts.  These  are 
thrown  off  between  the  sixth  and  the  twelfth  day,  and  leave  no  cicatrix  behind  them. 
The  endermic  inoculation  of  the  oil  causes  small  but  painful  abscessess.  Applied  to  one 
part  of  the  body,  it  is  often  carried  elsewhere  by  the  fingers,  and  thus  sometimes  causes 
pustulation  of  the  genitals,  eyes,  etc. 

In  obstinate  constipation  of  the  bowels,  and  when  there  exists  no  contraindication 
arising  from  inflammation  or  structural  alteration,  croton  oil  is  an  appropriate  purgative. 
But  the  observance  of  these  conditions  is  very  important.  The  oil  is  most  appropriate 
when  bulky  doses  are  objectionable,  and  when  the  patient  resists  the  administration  of 
more  usual  cathartics.  Of  the  former  sort  are  cases  of  intestinal  obstruction  from  accu- 
mulated faeces  produced  by  simple  torpor  of  the  bowels,  diseases  of  the  nervous  centres, 
the  poison  of  lead,  etc.  Of  the  latter  are  the  frequent  instances  of  a refusal  to  take 
medicine  among  children  and  insane  persons,  but  the  oil  should  rarely  be  given  to  chil- 
dren. It  is  customary  to  administer  it  to  the  insane  in  milk  or  broth — a most  vicious 
and  inhuman  practice,  since  it  arouses  suspicion ' or  an  aversion  to  articles  upon  which 
the  patient’s  life  may  depend.  In  lead  colic  it  has,  to  a great  extent,  superseded  other 
purgatives.  It  should  be  given  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.06  (gtt.  j)  daily  or  twice  a day, 
and  need  not  interfere  with  the  simultaneous  use  of  narcotics  internally  or  externally. 
Like  other  active  purgatives,  it  has  been  employed  to  expel  taeniae , and  it  is  even  said  to 
have  done  so  when  mixed  with  olive  oil  and  rubbed  upon  the  abdomen  ; but  many  surer 
remedies  for  these  parasites  exist.  When  used  to  expel  taeniae  or  other  intestinal  worms 
it  should  be  dissolved  in  chloroform  (1  drop  in  3j)  and  given  after  purgation  with  a 
saline  laxative.  It  has  been  used  successfully  as  a drastic  purgative  in  different  forms 
of  dropsy , but  it  is  unnecessarily  harsh.  Its  irritant  substitutive  action  has  been  invoked 
in  dysentery , but  safer  and  milder  remedies  are  to  be  preferred.  In  apoplexy  it  is  cus- 
tomary to  employ  it  for  its  depletory  revulsive  action  and  for  the  convenience  of  its 
administration  during  the  stupor  of  the  attack.  If  the  attack  is  one  of  congestive 
apoplexy,  denoted  by  turgor  of  the  face,  laboring  heart  and  pulse,  etc.,  purgation  is  gen- 
erally required,  but  in  an  opposite  condition  it  is  contraindicated. 

Externally , croton  oil  has  been  used  to  relieve  cerebral  symptoms  following  the  sup- 
pression of  a cutaneous  eruption  and  other  causes ; and  in  the  various  forms  of  meningitis 
it  is  the  most  efficient  agent  for  counter-irritation  of  the  scalp.  It  is  less  painful  than 
tartar  emetic  pustulation,  and  more  permanent  in  its  action  than  cantharides.  It  may  be 
used  as  a counter-irritant  in  spinal  neuralgia , but  is  objectionable  on  account  of  the  diffi- 
culty of  restricting  its  action  to  a definite  area.  It  has  been  more  successful  in  sciatica 
than  in  any  other  form  of  neuralgia.  For  this  affection  it  has  also  been  recommended 
internally,  but  upon  less  substantial  grounds.  It  has  been  applied  locally  in  chronic 
articular  rheumatism , and  is  undoubtedly  one  of  the  best  of  the  topical  remedies  for  the 
disease.  Its  moderate  but  steady  counter-irritation  renders  it  peculiarly  valuable  in  cases 
of  chronic  bronchitis  and  chronic  laryngitis. 

Tinea  tonsurans , or  ringworm  of  the  scalp,  has  been  treated  successfully  by  croton  oil, 
which  is  applied  pure  until  the  characteristic  eruption  appears,  when  a poultice  is  used  to 
soften  and  remove  the  crusts  of  the  original  disease  and  those  produced  by  the  oil.  It  is 
recommended,  when  a large  portion  of  the  scalp  is  involved,  that  a small  portion  only 
should  be  treated  at  a time,  on  account  of  the  irritation  and  fever  which  usually  are 
excited.  The  conditions  favorable  to  the  success  of  this  treatment  are,  however,  far  from 
definite ; and  moreover  croton  oil  sometimes  causes  suppuration  of  the  hair-follicles  and 
incurable  alopecia. 

Croton  oil  may  be  given  in  emulsion  or  mixed  with  some  other  oil  or  in  pill.  Of  these 
forms  the  last  is  to  be  preferred.  The  dose  is  Gm.  0.016-0.13  (n^  ?,-ij).  The  following 


1166 


OLEUM  V A LERI  A NJE. — OLIBA  N UM. 


is  a safe  and  convenient  prescription  : Add  to  Gm.  0.12  (gtt.  ij)  of  croton  oil  enough 
alcohol  to  dissolve  them,  and  then  bread-crumb  in  sufficient  quantity.  Make  from  four 
to  eight  pills,  and  direct  one  to  be  taken  every  hour  or  two.  Externally,  the  oil  may  be 
applied  by  means  of  a feather,  brush,  or  other  convenient  instrument,  and  friction  made 
with  a rag  until  the  skin  becomes  dry.  It  may  be  used  pure  or  mixed  with  castor  oil, 
olive  oil,  soap  liniment,  alcohol,  or  ether : or  a piece  of  muslin  somewhat  smaller  than 
one  of  adhesive  plaster  may  be  attached  to  the  latter,  and  moistened  with  the  oil  before 
being  applied  to  the  skin.  A mixture  of  1 part  of  croton  oil  with  7 of  oil  of  turpentine 
is  more  rapid  in  its  action  than  the  croton  oil  alone. 

As  antidotes  to  the  poisonous  effects  of  this  oil,  milk,  olive  oil,  mucilage,  gelatin  soup, 
etc.  may  be  given  to  envelop  the  acrid  substance,  and  if  it  cause  a tendency  to  collapse, 
opium  and  alcoholic  liquids  and  warm  stimulating  baths  should  be  employed. 

OLEUM  VALERIANAE. — Oil  of  Valerian. 

Essence  de  valeriane , Fr. ; Baldrianol , G. 

The  volatile  oil  distilled  from  the  root  of  Valeriana  officinalis,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Valeria  naceae. 

Preparation. — The  volatile  oil  is  obtained  by  distilling  the  crushed  root  with  water 
or  steam.  The  yield  varies  between  $ and  2 per  cent.,  and  is  largest  from  valerian  grown 
in  dry  localities.  5 pounds  of  oil  of  valerian  were  imported  into  the  United  States  in 
1876,  and  167  pounds  in  1878. 

Properties. — When  recently  distilled  from  fresh  root  the  oil  of  valerian  is  of  a 
greenish  or  yellowish  color,  limpid,  of  a mild  odor,  and  of  a neutral  reaction.  On 
exposure  to  air  it  becomes  deeper  yellow  and  brown,  viscid,  and  acquires  a strong  odor 
and  an  acid  reaction.  Old  roots  yield  a£  once  a dark,  acid,  and  strongly  odorous  oil.  Its 
taste  is  aromatic,  somewhat  camphoraceous,  not  burning;  its  density  is  near  0.94.  It  is 
readily  soluble  in  alcohol,  does  not  fulminate  with  iodine,  and  becomes  purplish-black 
with  ethereal  solution  of  bromine,  dark-red  with  sulphuric  acid,  purplish-red  with  hydro- 
chloric acid  gas,  and  blue  with  nitric  acid. 

Composition. — The  latest  investigation  is  by  G.  Bruylants  (1878),  who  ascertained 
some  new  facts.  The  hydrocarbon,  C10H]6,  was  named  borneene  by  Gerhardt  (1841)  and 
vaJerene  by  Pierlot  (1859).  The  valerol  of  the  latter  differed  from  Gerhardt’s  valerol, 
C6H,0O,  which  he  believed  to  become  oxidized  in  contact  with  air  to  valerianic  acid,  car- 
bon dioxide  being  given  off  at  the  same  time.  Bruylants  explains  the  generation  of 
valerianic  acid  in  old  oil  of  valerian  from  the  decomposition  of  C10H17C5H9O2,  which  is 
the  valerianic  ether  of  borneol ; besides  this  one,  it  contains  the  corresponding  ethers  of 
formic  and  acetic  acids,  the  alcohol  borneol,  C10H18O,  and  its  ether,  (C10Hn)2O.  Gerhardt 
assumed  the  production  of  borneol  from  the  hydration  of  borneene.  (See  Oleum  Cam- 
phorvE,  page  388.) 

Action  and  Uses. — In  experiments  upon  animals  with  poisonous  doses  of  this  oil 
it  appeared  to  blunt  the  reflex  excitability  after  having  primarily  stimulated  it,  and  to 
produce  a similar  effect  when  the  same  function  was  previously  excited  by  strychnine. 
It  has  been  used  with  advantage  in  hysteria , chorea , and  even  in  epilepsy  ; but  it  is  most 
efficient  in  the  first-named  disease,  and  in  the  various  functional  nervous  derangements 
which,  without  constituting  hysteria,  are  nevertheless  hysterical.  It  may  be  prescribed 
in  doses  of  Gm.  0.06  (gtt.  j)  and  upward  in  pill,  emulsion,  or  alcoholic  solution. 

OLIBANUM. — Frankincense. 

Gummi  resina  olibanum,  Thus. — Oliban,  Encens,  Fr. ; Weihrauch,  G. ; Incienso,  Sp. 

From  Boswellia  Carterii,  Birdwood,  and  other  species  of  Boswellia.  Bentley  and  Trimen, 
Med.  Plants,  58. 

Nat.  Ord. — Burseraceae. 

Origin. — The  genus  Boswellia  is  confined  to  India,  Southern  Arabia,  and  Eastern 
Africa.  It  comprises  trees  with  imparipinnate  leaves,  serrate  leaflets,  small,  racemose, 
decandrous  flowers,  and  three-celled  drupaceous  capsules  containing  three  seeds.  The 
different  species  are  still  imperfectly  known.  B.  Carterii  may  possibly  be  a polymorphous 
species,  or  several  forms  at  present  regarded  as  mere  varieties  may  be  distinct  species, 
which  grow  only  in  two  limited  districts  in  South-eastern  Arabia  and  in  the  Somali 
country  of  Eastern  Africa.  B.  papyrifera,  Richard,  indigenous  to  Nubia  and  Abyssinia, 
yields  a similar  product,  which,  however,  is  not  collected.  B.  thurifera,  Colebrook  (B, 


OPIUM. 


1167 


serrata  and  B.  glabra,  Roxburgh ),  affords  a soft  odorous  resin  which  is  used  in  India  as 
incense.  The  fragrant  resin  of  B.  Frereana,  Birdicood , of  the  Somali  country,  is  used  in 
the  East  as  a masticatory. 

Collection. — Tile  collection  of  olibanum  in  the  Somali  country  was  described  by 
Cruttenden  (1846),  and  in  Arabia  by  Carter  (1847),  who  had  visited  these  countries  three 
years  previously.  Deep  incisions  are  made  from  which  a milk-white  exudation  flows, 
which  gradually  hardens,  and  is  then  collected.  Olibanum  enters  commerce  by  way  of 
Bombay. 

Description. — Olibanum  consists  of  roundish,  oblong,  or  irregular-shaped  separate 
tears.  These  vary  in  diameter  between  3-12  Mm.  (i  and  I inch)  or  more,  and  are  nearly 
colorless,  pale-yellowish,  or  of  a reddish  hue,  and  covered  with  a whitish  powder,  resulting 
from  the  attrition  of  the  pieces.  When  broken  they  exhibit  a flat  scarcely  conchoidal 
fracture  and  a waxy  lustre.  Olibanum  has  a balsamic  somewhat  terebinthinate  odor, 
softens  between  the  teeth,  and  has  a balsamic  and  slightly  bitter  taste.  Triturated  with 
water,  it  yields  a white  emulsion ; alcohol  dissolves  the  greater  part  of  it.  When  heated 
it  becomes  soft  and  burns,  diffusing  an  aromatic  odor. 

Olibanum  of  inferior  quality  is  more  deeply  colored,  often  opaque,  and  more  or  less 
mixed  with  fragments  of  bark  and  other  impurities. 

Constituents. — By  distillation  with  water  a volatile  oil  is  obtained  varying  in  quan- 
tity from  4 (Stenhouse,  1840)  to  7 per  cent.  Kurbatow  (1871)  found  it  to  consist  of 
oUbene , C10H16,  and  an  oxygenated  portion  boiling  above  175°  C.  (347°  F.).  Olibene  is 
the  chief  constituent  of  the  oil,  boils  at  about  157°  C.  (314.6°  F.),  has  a turpentine-like 
odor,  and  yields  with  hydrochloric  acid  gas  a crystalline  compound.  The  resin  amounts 
to  56  (Braconnot,  1808),  or  as  much  as  72,  per  cent.  (Kurbatow),  and,  according  to 
Hlasiwetz  (1867),  has  the  composition  C20H30O3.  The  gummy  matter  contained  in 
olibanum  was  found  by  Hekmeijer  (1858)  to  agree  in  behavior  with  gum-arabic. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Olibanum  is  a constituent  of  most  fumigating  powders, 
for  which  there  are  a large  number  of  formulas  in  existence;  they  contain  also  benzoin, 
storax,  mastic,  amber,  cascarilla,  orris-root,  santal-wood,  or  other  odoriferous  drugs,  which 
are  reduced  to  a coarse  powder,  and  when  used  thrown  upon  a heated  surface.  Fumi- 
gating pastilles  are  made  of  a similar  composition,  and  should  contain  about  40  per  cent, 
of  ligneous  material  or  charcoal  and  from  5 to  8 per  cent,  of  potassium  nitrate;  the  finely- 
powdered  ingredients  are  well  mixed,  formed  into  a mass  with  mucilage  of  tragacanth, 
and  then  moulded  into  the  desired  shape. 

Action  and  Uses. — Although  no  longer  official  in  either  the  United  States  or  the 
British  Pharmacopoeia,  olibanum  is  one  of  the  most  ancient,  as  it  once  was  one  of  the 
most  valued,  of  medicines.  It  was  the  frankincense  of  which  so  much  is  said  in  the  Old 
Testament,  and  which  was  used  by  the  Egyptians  in  embalming ; it  is  spoken  of  in  the 
Hippocratic  writings  as  an  expectorant  in  bronchial  catarrh  and  in  infantile  asthma,  as 
useful  in  expelling  the  lochia  and  promoting  menstruation,  as  an  ingredient  of  injections 
for  leucorrhoea,  and  of  ointments  for  various  ulcers,  including  those  caused  by  burns. 
Later  it  was  applied  in  ointments  to  chilblains , cutaneous  eruptions , and  inflammations  of 
the  eyes.  More  recently  it  was  an  ingredient  of  various  stimulating  plasters,  and  its 
fragrant  fumes  were  used  to  conceal  unpleasant  smells.  The  dose  is  stated  to  be  6m.  2-4 
(gr.  xxx-lx),  given  in  emulsion. 

Hedwnjia  balsamifera  has  been  used  hypodermically  in  an  alcoholic  and  also  as  a 
watery  extract  of  the  stalk  and  root.  The  former  was  the  more  active.  Gaucher,  Cam- 
bemale,  and  Marestang  concluded  from  their  experiments  that  this  plant  is  a poison  of 
the  nervous  system,  lowering  the  temperature,  inducing  paralysis  and  convulsions,  ren- 
dering the  respiration  irregular,  and  arresting  the  heart.  They  found  in  it  an  alkaloid 
and  a resin,  of  which  the  former  is  mainly  convulsing,  while  the  latter  rather  causes 
paralysis  and  lowers  the  temperature  ( Annuaire  de  Therap .,  1889,  p.  25). 

OPIUM,  U.  S.,  Br Fr.  Cod.,  P.  A.,  P.  G.— Opium. 

Meconium , Succus  thebaicus. — Opium , E.,  Fr.,  G. 

The  concrete  milky  exudation  obtained  in  Asia  Minor  by  incising  the  unripe  capsules 
of  Papaver  somniferum,  leimie.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 18. 

Official  Forms  of  Opium. — Opii  pulyis,  U.  S. — Powdered  opium,  E. ; Pou- 
dre  d opium,  Fr. ; Opiumpulver,  G. — Opium  dried  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  85°  C. 
(185°  F.),  (60°  C.  — 140°  F.,  P.  Gf,  and  reduced  to  a very  fine  (No.  80)  powder.  Pow- 
dered opium  for  pharmaceutical  or  medicinal  uses,  should  contain  not  less  than  13  nor 


1168 


OPIUM. 


more  than  15  per  cent,  (not  less  than  10  per  cent.,  P.  G .)  of  morphine  when  assayed  by 
the  process  given  under  Opium.  Any  powdered  opium  of  a higher  percentage  may  be 
brought  within  these  limits  by  admixture  with  powdered  opium  of  a lower  percentage  in 
proper  proportions. — U.  8. 

Opium,  U.  8.,  Br .,  F.  Cod .,  P.  G.  Opium  in  its  normal  moist  condition  yielding  not 
less  than  9 per  cent,  (after  drying,  9.5  to  10.5  per  cent.  Br.')  of  morphine. — U.  8. 

Opium  deodoratum,  U.  8.,  Opium  denarcotinatum. — Deodorized  Opium,  Denar- 
cotized  opium,  E. ; Opium  denarcotine,  Fr. ; Denarcotinirtes  Opium,  G. — Denarcotized 
opium  should  yield  13  to  15  per  cent,  of  morphine. 

Origin  and  Production. — The  poppy-capsule,  which  is  described  elsewhere  (see 
Papaver),  contains  under  the  epidermis  a large  number  of  laticiferous  vessels  which  are 
variously  branched  and  interlaced,  and  in  the  unripe  state  of  the  fruit  are  filled  with  a white 
milk-juice,  which  escapes  when  an  incision  is  made.  For  its  successful  cultivation  the 
poppy  requires  a deep,  rich,  and  well-manured  soil,  and  considerable  attention  until  the  plant 
has  sufficiently  matured  to  permit  of  the  collection  of  the  milk-juice.  A few  days  after 
the  petals  have  fallen  the  green  capsule  is  scarified,  with  the  precaution  of  not  cutting 
entirely  through  the  capsular  integuments,  as  the  juice  would  then  flow  into  the  capsule 
and  be  lost.  In  Asia  Minor  and  Egypt  one  or  two  incisions  are  made  transversely  near 
the  middle  of  the  capsule,  so  as  to  run  spirally  around  it.  In  India  three  or  four  vertical 
incisions  are  made  from  the  base  to  the  apex  and  on  different  sides  of  the  capsule,  the 
instrument  used  for  the  purpose,  called  nushtur , being  a three-  or  four-bladed  knife  pro- 
tected by  means  of  twine,  so  as  to  prevent  the  blades  from  penetrating  too  deeply.  The 
scarifications  being  made  in  the  afternoon,  the  milk-juice  is  ready  for  collection  the  next 
morning,  when  its  color  will  have  changed  from  white  to  brown.  The  juice  is  then  care- 
fully scraped  off  with  a knife,  which  is  moistened  from  time  to  time  with  water,  or  in 
Asia  Minor  by  drawing  it  through  the  mouth;  in  Persia  oil  is  used  to  prevent  the  juice 
from  adhering  to  the  scraper. 

In  Asia  Minor  the  juice  is  transferred  to  a poppy-leaf  and  formed  into  cakes  varying  , 
greatly  in  size — from  a few  ounces  to  2 pounds  or  more  in  weight.  These  soft  cakes  are 
subsequently  often  mixed  together  for  the  purpose  of  obtaining  larger  cakes,  which  are  , 
surrounded  by  one  or  two  wilted  poppy-leaves,  afterward  packed  with  a considerable  ' 
quantity  of  the  dry  fruits  of  a species  of  Rumex,  thus  preventing  the  cakes  from 
adhering  to  one  another,  and  then  transported  to  Smyrna  or  Constantinople,  whence  the 
European  and  American  markets  are  chiefly  supplied. 

In  Egypt  opium  is  collected  and  prepared  for  the  market  in  a manner  similar  to  that 
just  described.  The  production  in  that  country  at  one  time  considerably  declined,  but, 
has  increased  since  Gastinel  Bey  (1865)  proved  that  opium  equal  in  quality  to  that  of  { 
Asia  Minor  could  be  gathered  by  bestowing  sufficient  care  upon  the  cultivation  of  the  , 
plant. 

The  juice  gathered  in  India  is  usually  quite  soft  in  consequence  of  dew,  and  after  collec- 
tion separates  a dark-colored  fluid  called passeiva,  which,  together  with  the  washings  of  ves-  > 
sels  and  some  opium,  is  evaporated  to  a thick  liquid  called  lewa , and  this  is  employed  in  agglu- 
tinating the  poppy-petals  together,  so  as  to  form  an  envelope,  and,  after  drying,  a rather 
hard  shell  for  the  protection  of  the  opium.  The  opium,  which  is  moulded  into  spherical 
balls,  requires  much  attention  until  it  has  been  sufficiently  dried  for  preservation.  Each 
ball  weighs  a little  over  4 pounds ; forty  of  these  are  packed  in  separate  compartments 
in  a case,  and  are  mostly  exported  to  China.  In  the  commerce  of  India  this  is  known 
as  provision  opium ; for  home  consumption  the  juice  is  evaporated  by  the  heat  of  the  sun 
and  formed  into  square  or  sometimes  circular  cakes,  which  are  wrapped  in  oiled  paper. 

Persian  opium  is  formed  into  cylindrical  sticks  about  6 inches  long,  each  of  which  is 
wrapped  in  paper,  or  into  cones  or  small  balls  about  11  inches  in  diameter,  the  wrapper 
of  which  is  sometimes  marked  with  Chinese  characters.  Since  1856,  Persian  opium  has 
been  sent  to  Constantinople,  and  there  worked  over  so  as  to  resemble  that  of  Asia  Minor. 
At  the  present  time  it  is  frequently  seen  in  European  commerce,  and  it  is  imported  in  con- 
siderable quantity  into  the  United  States  to  be  used  in  the  manufacture  of  morphine.  It 
often  comes  in  cakes  weighing  1 or  11  pounds,  which  are  oily  and  always  packed  in  poppy 
trash — i.  e.  the  dried  stalks  and  capsules  ground  into  coarse  powder. 

China  produces  a large  quantity  of  opium,  all  of  which  is  consumed  in  that  country : 
in  addition  it  consumes  notable  quantities  imported  from  Persia,  as  well  as  by  far  the 
largest  portion  of  the  opium  which  is  exported  from  India.  The  samples  which  we  have 
seen  were  flattish-globular  in  shape  and  wrapped  in  white  paper;  one  specimen  was  oily, 


OPIUM. 


1169 


though  less  so  than  Persian  opium,  and  another,  to  judge  from  its  black-brown  color,  was 
prepared  by  the  aid  of  artificial  heat,  though  free  from  empyreuma. 

In  Japan  the  milk-juice  is  obtained  by  the  longitudinal  scarification  of  the  poppy-cap- 
sules, and  the  opium  is  formed  into  flat  cakes  which  are  wrapped  in  paper. 

Numerous  experiments  have  been  made  in  Europe , and  opium  of  excellent  quality  has 
been  obtained  as  far  north  as  Sweden  ; but  European  opium  is  not  an  article  of  com- 
merce, and  its  production  appears  to  be  very  limited.  It  is  stated  that  Aubergier  calls  the 
opium  raised  by  him  in  France  ajfum,  and  that  it  is  formed  from  the  agglomeration  of 
tears  exuded  from  the  incisions  and  entirely  free  from  foreign  admixture. 

In  Algeria  opium  has  been  produced  since  1828 — in  limited  quantities,  however,  and 
insufficient  to  be  of  any  commercial  importance.  Rohlfs  (1866)  found  an  extensive  culture 
of  opium  in  the  oasis  of  Tuat  in  the  northern  part  of  the  great  African  desert. 

Opium  has  also  been  raised  experimentally  in  Victoria,  Australia , and  was  stated  by 
Mr.  Bosisto  (1876)  to  be  of  good  quality. 

About  the  year  1812  opium  of  fair  quality  was  produced  in  the  United  States,  chiefly, 
if  not  exclusively,  in  New  England.  After  the  close  of  the  war  the  cultivation  had  to  be 
abandoned — as  it  appears,  mainly  because  the  product  became  unsalable  in  consequence 
of  extensive  adulterations ; more  recently,  however,  opium-culture  again  attracted  attention, 
more  particularly  during  the  late  Civil  War,  when  the  drug  was  successfully  produced  in 
Virginia,  Tennessee,  and  South  Carolina.  Prof.  Porcher  ( Resources  of  the  Southern  Fields 
and  Forests,  p.  26)  states  that  in  the  climate  of  South  Carolina  and  Georgia  the  poppy 
should  be  planted  in  September ; the  plants  are  not  killed  during  the  winter ; they  thrive 
in  the  early  spring,  and  the  capsules  are  ready  for  incision  in  May.  Several  attempts 
made  to  obtain  the  poppy  by  planting  in  April  and  May  failed,  the  seeds  not  coming  up. 
A garden  square  ” yielded  him  830  grains  of  very  dry  opium  of  excellent  quality. 

In  Asia  Minor  the  poppy-seed  is  sown  at  intervals  from  November  to  March.  By  fol- 
lowing this  course  failure  from  frosts  or  other  causes  is  guarded  against,  and  the  matur- 
ing of  the  poppy-heads  is  extended  over  a certain  length  of  time.  Since  by  the  circular 
incisions  made  there  all  or  nearly  all  the  laticiferous  vessels  are  cut,  a second  scarification 
is  generally  unprofitable,  while  an  additional  quantity  of  milky  juice  is  usually  obtained 
on  repeating  the  vertical  incisions  after  a day  or  two. 

The  variety  of  poppy  cultivated  in  Asia  Minor  is  the  black,  which  has  usually  purple 
flowers  and  black,  though  occasionally  white,  seeds.  This  variety  is  that  also  which,  in 
the  experience  .of  Aubergier  in  France  and  of  Behr  and  Biltz  in  Germany,  yields  opium 
richer  in  morphine  than  that  produced  from  the  white-flowering  and  white-seeded  poppy. 
The  latter  is,  however,  by  some  persons  considered  more  advantageous  for  collection,  and 
appears  to  be  the  only  kind  cultivated  in  Egypt,  Persia,  India,  China,  and  Japan. 

Description. — Opium  is  in  subglobular,  usually  more  or  less  flattened,  irregular 
cakes,  which  are  externally  of  a chestnut-brown  or  somewhat  darker  color,  and  bear  on 
the  surface  the  impressions  of  the  veins  of  the  poppy-leaf  in  which  they  had  been  envel- 
oped : fragments  of  the  leaf  and  seme  fruits  of  a Rumex  are  generally  adhering  to  the 
surface.  The  whole  mass  is  usually  plastic,  but  on  keeping  a harder  external  crust  is 
formed,  while  the  interior  portion  retains  its  moist  condition  for  a long  time.  When 
broken,  some  tears  are  usually  observed  in  the  interior,  together  with  fragments  of  vege- 
table tissue  which  have  been  detached  in  scraping  off  the  milk-juice.  The  cakes  weigh 
from  about  4 ounces  to  2 pounds.  The  odor  of  opium  is  heavy  and  narcotic,  its  taste 
disagreeable  and  bitter.  Examined  under  the  microscope,  some  needle-shaped  crystals  are 
observed,  but  most  of  it  consists  of  an  amorphous  or  granular  mass,  aside  from  the  vege- 
table tissue  present.  The  crystals  are  best  observed  after  the  dry  opium  has  been  well 
moistened  with  benzene. 

Smyrna,  Turkey,  or  Constantinople  opium  is  the  only  variety  recognized  by  the  differ- 
ent pharmacopoeias  and  met  with  in  American  commerce.  It  has  been  stated  above  that 
Persian  opium  is  often  imported  for  the  manufacture  of  the  alkaloids.  It  is  oily  from 
the  manner  in  which  it  has  been  collected.  Its  other  distinctive  characters  and  those  of 
East  Indian  opium  have  already  been  briefly  described.  Both  varieties  contain  usually 
a larger  number  of  crystals  than  Turkey  opium,  and  these  crystals  may  not  unfrequently 
be  seen  with  the  naked  eye  or  by  the  aid  of  a lens. 

Adulterations. — The  principal  admixtures  observed  by  us  in  Turkey  opium  were 
pebbles,  shot,  and  lead  balls  introduced  into  the  interior  of  the  cakes.  When  present 
these  admixtures  generally  amount  to  several  ounces,  but  are  only  occasionally  seen.  Of 
greater  importance  appears  to  be  the  introduction  of  excessive  quantities  of  vegetable 
tissue  during  the  collection  of  the  juice,  but  it  is  impossible  .to  estimate  its  quantity  or 


1170 


OPIUM. 


state  its  allowable  limits.  Coarse  adulterations,  such  as  the  aqueous  extract  of  the  poppy- 
plant  and  of  the  herb  Glaucium  luteum — which,  according  to  Landerer,  is  sometimes  made 
in  Turkey — are  rarely,  if  ever,  seen  in  the  imported  opium,  and  are  readily  detected  by 
the  darker  color  and  the  hygroscopic  nature  of  the  product,  and  by  the  uninterrupted 
streak  which  it  leaves  on  being  drawn  over  paper,  while  good  opium  makes  an  interrupted 
mark.  Such  partly  factitious  opium,  or  fraudulent  substitution  of  an  extract  having  a 
narcotic  odor,  for  opium  said  to  have  been  of  American  origin,  was  noticed  by  Procter 
(1869)  and  Ebert  (1873).  Various  kinds  of  resinous,  saccharine,  mucilaginous,  and 
amylaceous  substances,  ashes,  clay,  gypsum,  litharge,  and  sand,  have  been  employed  for 
like  purposes,  and  occasionally  opium  has  been  met  with  in  the  market  which  contained 
so  little  morphine  and  other  alkaloids  as  to  lead  to  the  inference  that  these  principles  had 
been  extracted.  Another  impurity  is  an  excessive  amount  of  moisture.  Squibb  (1860) 
estimated  the  average  loss  in  drying  to  be  19.5  or  20  per  cent.,  and  in  drying  and  powder- 
ing 20  to  21  per  cent.  From  a record  of  nearly  12,000  pounds  of  opium,  nearly  the  whole 
of  which  was  directly  obtained  from  importers,  we  find  the  average  loss  to  have  been  21.2 
per  cent. ; in  some  exceptional  cases  as  high  as  28  or  as  low  as  15  per  cent.  Bengal  pro- 
vision opium  contains  30  per  cent,  of  moisture. 

Examination. — Hager  suggested  the  following  course  for  determining  the  presence 
of  adulterations : The  sample  is  dried  and  powdered,  and  25  grains  of  the  powder  are 
triturated  with  } ounce  of  boiling  water ; the  formation  of  a stiff  paste  or  mucilaginous 
liquid  would  indicate  the  presence  of  starch,  flour,  gum,  or  salep.  2 ounces  of  water 
are  added,  and  the  liquid  filtered  ; the  filtrate  should  be  of  a wine-yellow  color,  indica- 
ting the  absence  of  liquorice  or  other  aqueous  extracts,  which  would  impart  to  the  filtrate 
a brown  color ; the  liquid  should  likewise  have  an  acid  reaction,  otherwise  the  admixture 
of  chalk,  litharge,  or  ashes  may  be  inferred.  On  evaporating  the  filtrate  to  1 ounce, 
potassium  ferrocyanide  or  the  addition  of  twice  its  bulk  of  alcohol  should  not  cause 
any  precipitate;  the  former  test  would  indicate  the  presence  of  salts  of  heavy  metals; 
the  latter  an  adulteration  with  gum  or  certain  salts.  The  insoluble  residue  of  opium  left 
on  the  filter  after  washing  and  drying  should  weigh  between  10  and  11}  grains;  should 
it  weigh  more,  sand,  clay,  or  other  insoluble  substances  may  be  present,  and  in  case  it 
weighs  less,  sugar,  gum,  or  other  soluble  impurities  are  indicated.  On  agitating  powdered 
opium  with  chloroform  the  mineral  impurities  and  starch  settle  to  the  bottom,  and  the 
latter  acquires  a blue  color  on  the  addition  of  a little  iodine.  Mineral  impurities  are 
likewise  indicated  by  the  amount  of  ash  left,  which  for  genuine  powdered  opium  is  about 
6 per  cent.,  varying,  however,  between  4 and  8 per  cent.  The  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia 
directs  the  estimation  of  the  extract  prepared  with  cold  water  from  100  parts  of  opium 
previously  dried  at  105°  C.  (221°  F.)  ; when  evaporated  to  dryness  the  extract  should 
weigh  between  55  and  60  parts. 

Constituents. — Opium  is  entirely  free  from  starch  and  tannin.  Among  the  princi- 
ples ordinarily  found  in  plants  the  following  have  been  observed  in  opium  : An  odorous 
principle  soluble  in  ether,  benzene,  and  petroleum  benzin ; glucose,  gum,  pectin,  a com- 
pound resembling  caoutchouc,  wax,  fat,  a small  amount  of  resin,  coloring  matter,  and 
that  indefinite  substance  usually  designated  as  extractive.  The  mineral  constituents 
average  6 per  cent.,  and  55  or  60  per  cent,  of  dry  opium  is  soluble  in  water,  but  the  pure 
milk-juice,  entirely  free  from  vegetable  tissue,  yields  a larger  percentage  to  water. 

The  most  important  as  well  as  the  most  interesting  constituents  of  opium,  however,  are 
the  alkaloids  ; in  fact,  the  first  vegetable  alkaloid  discovered  was  obtained  from  opium.  In 
1816,  after  a patient  investigation  extending  over  11  years,  Serturner,  apothecary  at  Eim- 
beck  in  Northern  Germany,  announced  the  discovery  of  morphium.  He  recognized  this 
principle  as  a salifiable  base,  in  some  respects  related  to  ammonia.  A crystalline  powder, 
probably  morphine  or  containing  it,  was  obtained  by  Ludwig  as  early  as  1688,  and  was 
named  magisterium  opii ; and  in  1803,  Derosne  obtained  this  principle  by  precipitating 
the  aqueous  infusion  of  opium  with  ammonia,  but  regarded  it  as  identical  with  his  salt  of 
opium  (narcotine),  which  crystallized  from  the  concentrated  infusion.  Seguin  (1804)  had 
likewise  observed  it.  Since  Sertiirner’s  discovery  a large  number  of  alkaloids  have  been 
isolated  from  opium,  which,  arranged  in  the  order  in  which  their  isolation  was  announced, 


i 


\ 

i 


i 

i 


are  as  follows : 

1.  Narcotine,  C22H23N07,  was  discovered  by  Derosne  (1803),  but  its  basic  nature  was  j 
first  shown  by  Robiquet  (1817).  It  may  be  extracted  with  ether  from  the  precipitate 
produced  by  ammonia  in  the  aqueous  infusion  of  opium,  and  from  the  insoluble  residue 
of  the  latter  by  exhausting  it  with  hot  acetic  acid.  It  crystallizes  in  colorless  shining 
rhombic  prisms  or  white  needles,  which  are  tasteless  and  dissolve  at  about  15°  C.  (59 


OPIUM. 


1171 


F.)  in  100  parts  of  85  per  cent,  alcohol,  33  parts  of  absolute  ether,  2.7  parts  of  chloro- 
form, 310  parts  of  amylic  alcohol,  or  in  22  parts  of  benzene.  The  alkaloid  requires  7000 
parts  of  boiling  water  for  solution,  is  insoluble  in  cold  dilute  acetic  acid,  is  a weak  base, 
and  yields  mostly  uncrystallizable  salts,  which  have  a bitter  taste  and  an  acid  reaction. 
Chloroform  dissolves  the  alkaloid  from  the  aqueous  solutions  of  its  salts  (Dragendorff ). 
Its  solution  in  cold  sulphuric  acid  is  colorless,  but  turns  slowly  to  yellow,  orange,  and 
red  : it  gives  a blood-red  color  with  a mixture  of  sulphuric  and  nitric  acids.  The  alka- 
loid melts  at  176°  C.  (349°  F.).  When  boiled  for  a long  time  with  water  or  heated  with 
nitric  acid,  it  is  decomposed  into  meconin , Ci0H10O4,  and  cotarnine , C12H13N03,  which  is  a 
stronger  base,  soluble  in  ammonia,  fusible  in  boiling  water,  and,  on  being  boiled  with  very 
dilute  nitric  acid,  is  converted  into  cotarnic  and  apophyllic  acids,  the  latter  containing 
nitrogen.  On  heating  narcotine  with  manganese  dioxide  and  dilute  sulphuric  acid,  cotar- 
nine is  obtained  and  in  addition  thereto  opianic  acid , C10H10O5,  which  crystallizes  in 
needles  and  fuses  at  140°  C.  (284°  F.).  When  heated  with  hydrochloric  or  hydriodic 
acid,  it  parts  with  one,  two,  or  three  methyl  groups  (CH3),  and  yields  new  bases.  Wright 
and  Beckett  (1876)  showed  that  it  may  be  converted  into  vanillin.  According  to  Weg- 
scheider  (1883),  opianic  acid,  heated  above  its  melting-point,  yields  an  anhydride,  C30H28Ou, 
which  by  moderate  fusion  with  potassa  is  converted  into  meconin  and  hemipinic  acid , 
CjoHioOg,  and  on  treating  the  latter  under  pressure  with  HC1,  isovanillic  and  protocate- 
chuic  acids  are  obtained. 

2.  Morphine,  C17H19N03,  discovered  by  Sertiirner  (1816),  is  described  in  another 
place  (see  page  990)  ; also  its  derivative,  apomorphine  (page  234).  On  heating  its  hydro- 
chlorate with  silver  nitrate  to  60°  C.  (140°  F.),  oxymorphine  or  pseudo-morphine  is  formed 
(see  below).  In  the  presence  of  ammonia  and  air  morphine  is  oxidized  to  oxy dimorphine, 
C34H36N206,  which  is  also  obtained  from  morphine  by  the  action  of  potassium  permangan- 
ate, potassium  ferricyanide,  or  nitrites  (Broockmann  and  Polstorff,  1880). 

3.  Codeine,  C18H21N03,  was  discovered  by  Robiquet  (1832),  and  by  Grimaux  (1881) 
prepared  from  morphine  by  heating  it  with  methyl  iodide  and  soda  ; it  is  therefore  methyl- 
morphine.  (For  description  see  page  514.)  A number  of  interesting  derivatives  have 
been  prepared  from  this  alkaloid,  which,  however,  with  the  exception  of  apomorphine, 
have  not  been  medicinally  employed.  The  melting-point  of  codeine  is  155°  C.  (311°  F.), 
as  given  by  the  XL  S.  Pharmacopoeia,  not  150°  C.,  as  determined  by  Robiquet  (Hesse, 
1883). 

4.  Narceine,  or  narceia,  C23H29N09,  discovered  by  Pelletier  (1832),  is  in  long  quad- 
rangular prisms  or  white  silky  needles,  which  have  a slight  bitter  taste,  melt  at  145.2°  C. 
(291.6°  F.),  are  insoluble  in  ether,  and  are  sparingly  soluble  in  cold  alcohol  and  water. 
Frohde’s  reagent  renders  it  brown-green,  yellow,  afterward  reddish.  Erdmann’s  test  pro- 
duces a deep-yellow,  brown-yellow,  and  finally  a deep-orange  color.  Iodine  not  used  in 
excess  produces  a blue  color,  nitric  acid  a rapidly-fading  yellow  color.  The  blue  color 
obtained  by  Pelletier  on  the  addition  to  narceine  of  strong  hydrochloric  acid  and  a small 
portion  of  water  is  not  observed  with  the  pure  alkaloid,  according  to  Winckler,  Ander- 
son, and  others.  Narceine  is  a weak  base,  and  yields  crystallizable  salts  which  are  mostly 
not  freely  soluble  in  water  or  are  decomposed  by  water,  the  hydrochlorate  yielding  a highly 
basic  salt  (Wright  and  Beckett,  1876). 

5.  Pseudomorphine,  also  called  phormine  and  oxydimorphine,  C34H36N206,  was  dis- 
covered by  Pelletier  and  Tliiboumery  (1835),  and  is  probably  present  in  opium  after 
exposure  to  ammoniacal  vapors.  It  is  a derivative  of  morphine,  and  is  readily  formed 
by  warming  an  aqueous  solution  of  morphine  nitrite  to  60°  C.  (140°  F.)  and  crystalliz- 
ing from  ammonia-water.  Hesse  (1883)  gives  to  the  alkaloid  the  formula  C17H17N03, 
and  states  that  it  absorbs  water  on  exposure.  It  is  a fine  crystalline  powder,  is  insoluble 
in  water,  alcohol,  ether,  and  chloroform  ; dissolves  in  acetic  acid  ; yields  with  hydro- 
chloric acid  a salt  sparingly  soluble  in  cold  water  ; it  is  colored  red  by  nitric  acid  and  blue 
by  ferric  chloride,  in  which  behavior  it  resembles  morphine. 

6.  Tiiebaine,  or  par amorphine,  C19H21N03,  was  discovered  by  Tliiboumery  (1835).  It 
forms  silvery  scales  or  hard  prisms ; is  soluble  in  ether,  more  freely  soluble  in  alcohol, 
amylic  alcohol,  benzene,  and  chloroform,  but  nearly  insoluble  in  water  and  alkalies.  It  is 
colored  blood-red,  afterward  yellow,  by  sulphuric  acid,  yellow  by  nitric  acid,  orange-red 
by  Erdmann’s  test,  orange-yellow  and  finally  colorless  by  Frohde's  reagent,  and  red-brown 
by  chlorine-water  and  ammonia.  The  salts  of  thebaine  crystallize  readily.  Diluted  acids 
readily  alter  the  alkaloid,  yielding  two  amorphous  isomeric  bases,  tliehenine  and  thehaicine , 
which  are  sparingly  soluble  in  hot  alcohol  and  insoluble  in  other  simple  solvents  (Hesse). 

7.  Papaverine,  C21H21N04,  discovered  by  Merck  (1848),  forms  colorless  needles  or 


1172 


OPIUM. 


prisms,  which  are  slightly  soluble  in  cold  ether  and  alcohol,  but  readily  soluble  in  hot 
alcohol,  amylic  alcohol,  chloroform,  and  benzene.  It  melts  at  147°  C.  (296.6°  F.).  Nearly 
all  its  salts  are  sparingly  soluble  in  cold  water  and  dilute  acids,  and  its  solutions  part 
with  the  alkaloid  on  being  agitated  with  chloroform.  Warm  sulphuric  acid  colors  it 
deep-purple  or  violet-blue.  Frohde’s  reagent  renders  it  bright  violet-blue,  then  blue, 
yellowish,  and  finally  colorless. 

8.  Rhceadine,  C2iH21N06,  discovered  by  O.  Hesse  (1865),  is  in  white  tasteless  prisms 
which  are  nearly  insoluble  in  ether,  alcohol,  benzene,  chloroform,  water,  and  ammonia, 
and  which  yield  with  dilute  acids  tasteless  and  colorless  solutions,  acquiring  an  intense 
purple  color  on  the  addition  of  strong  hydrochloric  or  sulphuric  acid.  Besides  the  color- 
ing matter,  an  isomeric  bitter,  colorless  base,  rhoeagenine,  is  formed  in  this  reaction.  The 
color  produced  by  acids  with  Merck’s  porphyroxin  (1837)  depends  on  the  presence  of 
some  rhoeadine. 

9.  Cryptopine,  C21H23N05,  was  discovered  by  T.  and  H.  Smith  (1867).  It  crystal- 
lizes in  minute  prisms,  is  sparingly  soluble  in  water,  ether,  benzene,  and  cold  alcohol,  dis- 
solves in  potassa  and  chloroform,  and  forms  bitter  salts,  which  have  a pungently  cooling 
taste,  and  when  dissolved  in  hot  water  usually  produce  a jelly-like  mass,  which  is  gradu- 
ally changed  to  crystals.  Sulphuric  acid  colors  it  yellow,  soon  turning  violet-color,  but 
in  the  presence  of  minute  traces  of  ferric  salt  or  of  chlorine  a dark  violet-blue  color  is  at 
once  produced,  which  on  warming  turns  dingy  green. 

10.  Oxynarcotine,  C22H23N08,  was  isolated  from  the  mother-liquors  of  narceine  by 
Wright  and  Beckett  (1876).  It  dissolves  in  alkaline  liquids,  but  is  nearly  insoluble  in 
benzene,  chloroform,  and  hot  alcohol  and  water.  Like  narceine  and  nicotine,  it  yields 
hemipinic  acid. 

11.  Gnoscopine,  C34H36N2Oh,  was  found  by  T.  and  H.  Smith  (1878)  in  the  mother- 
liquors  of  narceine.  Et  forms  thin  needles  of  a woolly  appearance,  melts  with  decompo- 
sition at  233°  C.,  is  soluble  in  chloroform  and  carbon  disulphide,  slightly  soluble  in  ben- 
zene, and  is  insoluble  in  petroleum  and  in  fusel  oil.  Sulphuric  acid  dissolves  it  with  ; 
a yellowish  color,  becoming  carmine-red  with  a trace  of  nitric  acid. 

The  following  alkaloids  were  discovered  by  O.  Hesse  (1870  and  1871),  and  may  be 
prepared  from  the  mother-liquors  left  in  the  preparation  of  morphine  by  Gregory’s 
method  : 

12.  Lanthopine,  C23H25N04,  is  crystalline,  tasteless,  sparingly  soluble  in  acetic  acid, 
alcohol,  ether,  and  benzene  ; is  readily  soluble  in  chloroform  ; is  colored  orange-red  by 
nitric  and  pale-violet  by  sulphuric  acid,  the  latter  color  changing  to  dark-brown  on 
heating. 

13.  Meoonidine,  C21H23N04,  is  amorphous,  colorless  or  yellowish,  tasteless,  easily  solu- 
ble in  alcohol,  ether,  benzene,  chloroform,  and  acetone.  It  yields  very  bitter  unstable  | 
salts,  and  is  dissolved  by  sulphuric  acid  with  an  olive-green,  and  by  nitric  acid  with  an 
orange-red.  color. 

14.  Laudanine,  C20H25NO4,  crystallizes  in  hexagonal  prisms,  melts  at  166°  (331°  F.'),  i 
is  sparingly  soluble  in  ether  and  cold  alcohol,  soluble  in  benzene,  chloroform,  and  alkalies ; 
in  ferric  chloride  with  an  emerald-green,  in  nitric  acid  with  an  orange-red,  and  in  sulphuric 
acid  containing  iron  with  a rose-red,  color,  the  latter  changing  to  violet  on  heating.  The 
hydriodate  is  sparingly  soluble  in  cold  water  ; the  hydrochlorate  is  nearly  insoluble  in 
solution  of  sodium  chloride. 

15.  Codamine,  C20H25NO4,  crystallizes  from  ether  in  large  six-sided  colorless  prisms; 
is  easily  soluble  in  chloroform,  benzene,  ether,  alcohol,  and  boiling  water ; forms  amor- 
phous bitter  salts,  and  dissolves  in  nitric  acid  with  a dark -green,  and  in  sulphuric  acid 
containing  iron  with  a blue,  color,  changing  to  green  and  dark-violet,  on  warming. 

16.  Deuteropine,  C20H21NO5,  homologous  with  cryptopine,  requires  further  investiga- 
tion. 

17.  Laudanosine,  C21H27N04,  is  soluble  in  alcohol,  chloroform,  ether,  and  warm  ben- 
zol ; the  crystals  fuse  at  89°  C.  (192.2°  F.).  It  neutralizes  acids,  and  yields  with  hydri-  | 
odic  acid  a sparingly  soluble  salt.  Pure  sulphuric  acid  colors  rose-red,  in  presence  of  j 
ferric  salt  brown-red,  on  warming  green  and  deep  violet. 

18.  Protopine,  C20H19NO5,  resembles  cryptopine,  and  is  with  difficulty  soluble  in  ether,  j 
alcohol,  and  benzene,  more  readily  soluble  in  chloroform.  The  solutions  of  its  salts  do  j 
not  gelatinize  and  have  a bitter  taste.  The  solutions  in  sulphuric  acid  turn  yellow,  red,  j 
and  purple  ; in  presence  of  ferric  salt  they  are  deep-violet. 

19.  Hydrocotarnine,  C12H]5N03,  crystallizes  in  large  colorless  prisms,  fuses  at  55°  C.  i 
(131°  F.)  ; volatilizes,  partly  unchanged,  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  ; is  easily  soluble  in  benzene  | 


OPIUM. 


1173 


ether,  and  alcohol,  and  forms  readily  soluble  salts.  It  is  formed  from  narcotine,  besides 
meconin,  by  the  action  of  nascent  hydrogen. 

From  many  of  the  above  alkaloids  derivatives  have  been  obtained  which  are  highly 
interesting  in  a scientific  point  of  view,  and  which  prove  that  at  least  between  some  of 
them  there  exists  evidently  a close  relation.  It  is  not  unlikely  that  some  of  those  enum- 
erated above  are  the  decomposition-products  of  others.  This  may  most  likely  be  affirmed 
to  be  true  of  Wittstein’s  metamorphine  (1860),  which  was  obtained  in  preparing  morphine 
bv  Mohr’s  process  (page  1050),  but  has  not  been  observed  since.  It  liberated  iodine  from 
iodic  acid,  was  colored  red  by  nitric  acid,  but  was  not  affected  by  ferric  chloride.  Hin- 
terberger’s  opiane  was  proved  by  Hesse  to  be  impure  narcotine. 

The  proportion  in  which  the  alkaloidal  constituents  of  opium  are  present  in  the  drug  is, 
without  doubt,  largely  influenced  by  the  climate,  the  nature  of  the  soil,  and  the  treat- 
ment to  which  the  milk-juice  is  exposed  in  obtaining  the  opium.  Most  of  the  pharmaco- 
poeias require  dried  opium  to  contain  not  less  than  10  per  cent,  of  morphine;  good 
Smyrna  opium  frequently  contains  between  12  and  15  per  cent,  of  it,  but  cakes  taken 
from  the  same  case  are  apt  to  vary  considerably.  Egyptian  opium  usually  contains  a 
smaller  amount  of  morphine,  varying  from  6 to  12  per  cent.  Persian  opium  varies  to  a 
still  greater  extent,  but  much  of  that  found  in  commerce  is  equal  to  the  ordinary  qualities 
of  Turkey  opium.  East  Indian  opium,  as  a rule,  is  weak  in  morphine.  It  is  sometimes 
as  low  as  2.5  per  cent.,  more  frequently  perhaps  between  3.5  and  5 per  cent.,  but  occa- 
sionally as  high  as  8 or  9 per  cent.  Most  of  the  opium  made  in  Europe  has  been  of 
good  and  even  of  excellent  quality.  French  opium  yielded  14.4  to  22.8  (Guibourt), 
German  opium  16.5  to  20,  and  from  white  poppy  6.8  per  cent.  (Biltz)  of  morphine. 
Opium  made  in  Algiers  from  red  poppy  yielded  10.4  to  17.8  per  cent.,  and  from  white 
poppy  1.5  to  8.5  per  cent,  of  morphine.  Several  morphiometric  assays  of  opium  grown 
in  the  United  States  have  been  recorded;  the  lowest  percentage  of  morphine,  4,  was 
observed  by  Grahame;  Procter  obtained  from  other  samples  7.4  and  9.15,  Flint  9.34,  and 
Wayne  10.2  per  cent. 

The  other  alkaloids  have  been  observed  in  the  following  proportions : 

Narcotine,  1.3  to  10.9  per  cent.  Codeine,  0.2  to  0.4  per  cent. 

Pseudomorphine,  0.02  per  cent.  Thebaine,  0.15  (to  1.0)  per  cent. 

Narceine,  0.02  to  0.1  (0.7)  per  cent.  Papaverine,  1.0  per  cent. 

Rhoeadine,  minute.  Cryptopine,  minute. 

Lanthopine,  0.005  per  cent.  Laudanine,  0.005  per  cent. 

Codamine,  0.003  per  cent. 

Meconic  Acid  (Acidum  meconicum,  Br .),  C7H407,  discovered  by  Serttirner,  is  ob- 
tained by  precipitating  the  concentrated  infusion  of  opium  with  calcium  chloride,  and  treat- 
ing the  calcium  meconate  repeatedly  with  warm  diluted  hydrochloric  acid.  It  crystallizes 
in  micaceous  scales  or  rhombic  prisms  containing  3H20,  dissolves  in  4 parts  of  boiling 
water,  and  is  also  soluble  in  alcohol.  Opium  yields  3 to  4 per  cent,  of  it.  It  is  a tribasic 
acid,  and  imparts  to  ferric  salts  a deep-red  color,  which  does  not  disappear  on  the  addition 
of  dilute  hydrochloric  acid  (difference  from  formic  and  acetic  acids)  or  by  the  chlorides 
of  gold  or  of  mercury  (difference  from  sulphocyanates).  When  boiled  with  water,  or 
more  rapidly  when  boiled  with  dilute  hydrochloric  acid,  meconic  acid  is  decomposed  into 
carbon  dioxide  and  crystallizable  comenic  acid , C6H4()5,  which  on  being  heated  yields  a 
sublimate  of  pyrocomenic  acid,  C5H403.  The  two  derivative  acids  likewise  redden  ferric 
salts,  the  last  less  deeply  than  the  former. 

T.  and  H.  Smith  (1862)  exhibited  theholactic  acid  as  one  of  the  constituents  of  opium. 
This  acid  has  the  composition  and  physical  properties  of  lactic  acid,  and,  according  to 
Buchanan  (1870),  is  identical  with  the  latter.  It  is  present  to  the  extent  of  about  If 
per  cent.,  and  is  probably  the  decomposition-product  of  another  constituent  of  poppy- 
juice.  The  same  may  also  be  said  of  the  free  acetic  and  traces  of  butyric  acid  announced 
by  David  Brown  in  1876. 


Meconin  is  obtained  from  narcotine  (see  above),  exists  also  in  opium,  and  forms  color- 
less shining  prisms,  which  are  inodorous,  bitter,  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  and  slightly 
soluble  in  water.  It  was  discovered  by  Dublanc  (1832),  and  is  also  known  as  opiavyl. 
It  melts  in  water  at  77°  C.,  and  in  the  air  at  110°  C.  (230°  F.),  and  when  evaporated 
with  slightly  diluted  sulphuric  acid  gives  a green  color. 

Meconoiosin,  C8H10O2,  was  obtained  by  T.  and  H.  Smith  (1878)  from  the  mother- 
liquors  left  on  the  isolation  of  meconin,  from  which  it  separates  in  an  impure  state  as 
brown  leaf-like  crystalline  masses.  When  pure  it  is  colorless,  is  freely  soluble  in  alcohol, 


1174 


OPIUM. 


ether,  and  hot  water,  fuses  at  88°  C.  (190.4°  F.),  and  on  evaporation  with  dilute  sulphuric 
acid  yields  a red  color,  changing  to  purple. 

Morphiometry. — In  view  of  the  variable  quality  of  opium  and  of  its  liability  to 
adulteration,  the  determination  of  the  amount  of  morphine  in  it  is  frequently  necessary, 
and  must  not  be  neglected  if  uniformity  of  strength  of  the  pharmaceutical  opium 
preparations  is  desired.  The  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia  gives  the  following  directions : 

“ Opium,  in  any  condition  to  be  valued,  10  Gm. ; Ammonia-water,  3.5  Cc. ; Alcohol, 
Ether,  Water,  each,  a sufficient  quantity.  Introduce  the  opium  (which,  if  fresh,  should 
be  in  very  small  pieces,  and  if  dry  in  very  fine  powder),  into  a bottle  having  a capacity 
of  about  300  Cc. ; add  100  Cc.  of  water,  cork  it  well,  and  agitate  frequently  during  twelve 
hours.  Then  pour  the  whole  as  evenly  as  possible  upon  a wetted  filter  having  a diameter 
of  12  Cm.,  and  when  the  liquid  has  drained  off  wash  the  residue  with  water,  carefully 
dropped  upon  the  edges  of  the  filter  and  the  contents,  until  150  Cc.  of  filtrate  are  obtained. 
Then  carefully  transfer  the  moist  opium  back  to  the  bottle  by  means  of  a spatula,  add  50 
Cc.  of  water,  agitate  thoroughly  and  repeatedly  during  fifteen  minutes,  and  return  the 
whole  to  the  filter.  When  the  liquid  has  drained  off  wash  the  residue,  as  before,  until 
the  second  filtrate  measures  150  Cc.,  and  finally  collect  about  20  Cc.  more  of  a third  fil- 
trate. Evaporate  in  a tared  capsule,  first,  the  second  filtrate  to  a small  volume ; then  add 
the  first  filtrate,  rinsing  the  vessel  with  the  third  filtrate,  and  continue  the  evaporation 
until  the  residue  weighs  14  Gm.  Rotate  the  concentrated  solution  about  in  the  capsule 
until  the  rings  of  extract  are  redissolved,  pour  the  liquid  into  a tared  Erlenmeyer  flask 
having  a capacity  of  about  100  Cc.,  and  rinse  the  capsule  with  a few  drops  of  water  at  a 
time  until  the  entire  solution  weighs  20  Gm.  Then  add  10  Gm.  (or  12.2  Cc.)  of  alcohol, 
shake  well,  add  25  Cc.  of  ether,  and  shake  again.  Now  add  the  ammonia-water  from  a 
graduated  pipette  or  burette,  stopper  the  flask  with  a sound  cork,  shake  it  thoroughly 
during  ten  minutes,  and  then  set  it  aside,  in  a moderately  cool  place,  for  at  least  six  hours 
or  over  night.  Remove  the  stopper  carefully,  and,  should  any  crystals  adhere  to  it  brush  ; 
them  into  the  flask.  Place  in  a small  funnel  two  rapidly-acting  filters  of  a diameter  of 
7 Cm.,  plainly  folded,  one  within  the  other  (the  triple  fold  of  the  inner  filter  being  laid 
against  the  single  side  of  the  outer  filter),  wet  them  well  with  water,  and  decant  the  i 
ethereal  solution  as  completely  as  possible  upon  the  inner  filter.  Add  10  Cc.  of  ether  ! 
to  the  contents  of  the  flask,  rotate  it,  and  again  decant  the  ethereal  layer  upon  the  inner 
filter.  Repeat  this  operation  with  another  portion  of  10  Cc.  of  ether.  Then  pour  into 
the  filter  the  liquid  in  the  flask,  in  portions,  in  such  a way  as  to  transfer  the  greater  por- 
tion of  the  crystals  to  the  filter,  and,  when  this  has  passed  through,  transfer  the  remain- 
ing crystals  to  the  filter  by  washing  the  flask  with  several  portions  of  water,  using  not  ( 
more  than  about  10  Cc.  in  all.  Allow  the  double  filter  to  drain,  then  apply  water  to  the  j 
crystals,  drop  by  drop,  until  they  are  practically  free  from  mother-water,  and  afterward  ) 
wash  them,  drop  by  drop  from  a pipette,  with  alcohol  previously  saturated  with  powdered  ' 
morphine.  When  this  has  passed  through,  displace  the  remaining  alcohol  by  ether,  using  , 
about  10  Cc.,  or  more  if  necessary.  Allow  the  filter  to  dry  in  a moderately  warm  place, 
at  a temperature  not  exceeding  60°  C.  (140°  F.),  until  its  weight  remains  constant;  then 
carefully  transfer  the  crystals  to  a tared  watch-glass  and  weigh  them.  The  weight  found, 
multiplied  by  10,  represents  the  percentage  of  crystallized  morphine  obtained  from  the 
opium.'1 — U.  S. 

“ Take  of  powdered  opium,  dried  at  212°  F.  (100°  C.),  100  grains  ; Lime,  freshly  slaked, 

60  grains ; Chloride  of  Ammonium,  40  grains;  Rectified  Spirit,  Ether,  Distilled  Water, 
of  each,  a sufficiency.  Triturate  together  the  opium,  lime,  and  400  grain-measures  of  dis- 
tilled water  in  a mortar  until  a uniform  mixture  results  ; then  add  1000  grain-measures  of 
distilled  water  and  stir  occasionally  during  half  an  hour.  Filter  the  mixture  through  a 
plaited  filter  about  three  inches  in  diameter  into  a wide-mouthed  bottle  or  stoppered  flask 
(having  the  capacity  of  about  6 fluidounces  and  marked  at  exactly  1040  grain-measures) 
until  the  filtrate  reaches  this  mark.  To  the  filtered  liquid  (representing  100  grains  oi 
opium)  add  110  grain-measures  of  rectified  spirit  and  500  grain-measures  of  ether,  and 
shake  the  mixture  ; then  add  the  chloride  of  ammonium,  shake  well  and  frequently  during 
half  an  hour,  and  set  it  aside  for  twelve  hours.  Counterbalance  two  small  filters ; place 
one  within  the  other  in  a small  funnel,  and  decant  the  ethereal  layer  as  completely  as 
practicable  upon  the  inner  filter.  Add  200  grain-measures  of  ether  to  the  contents  of 
the  bottle  and  rotate  it ; again  decant  the  ethereal  layer  upon  the  filter,  and  afterward 
wash  the  latter  with  100  grain-measures  of  ether  added  slowly  and  in  portions.  Now  let 
the  filter  dry  in  the  air,  and  pour  upon  it  the  liquid  in  the  bottle  in  portions,  in  such  a 
way  as  to  transfer  the  greater  portion  of  the  crystals  to  the  filter.  When  the  fluid  has 


OPIUM. 


1175 


passed  through  the  filter,  wash  the  bottle  and  transfer  the  remaining  crystals  to  the  filter, 
with  several  small  portions  of  distilled  water,  using  not  much  more  than  200  grain- 
measures  in  all,  and  distributing  the  portions  evenly  over  the  filter.  Allow  the  filter  to 
drain,  and  dry  it,  first  by  pressing  between  sheets  of  bibulous  paper,  and  afterward  at  a 
temperature  between  131°  and  140°.  (55°  and  60°  C.),  and,  finally,  at  194°  to  212°  F., 
(90°  to  100°  C.).  Weigh  the  crystals  in  the  inner  filter,  counterbalancing  by  the  outer 
filter.  The  crystals  should  weigh  10  grains,  or  not  less  than  9?  and  not  more  than  10£ 
grains,  corresponding  to  about  10  per  cent,  of  morphine  in  the  powdered  opium.” — Br. 

Mayer  (1863)  recommended  a similar  method,  but  substituted  baryta  for  lime,  and 
instead  of  weighing  the  morphine,  estimated  it  by  his  test  solution. 

Prollius  (1877)  devised  a process  which  is  also  recommended  by  Fliickiger  ( Pharma - 
cographia , 2d  ed.  p.  63):  A tincture  is  made  from  10  Gm.  of  opium  and  sufficient  alco- 
hol spec.  grav.  0.950  to  obtain  100  Gm.  of  filtrate  ; add  to  this  50  Gm.  of  ether  and  2 Gm. 
of  ammonia-water  spec.  gr.  0.960  ; collect  the  crystals  of  morphine  after  a day  or  two, 
and  dry  them  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.). 

The  following  is  a modification  of  this  process  : 6 Gm.  of  opium,  in  moderately  fine 
powder,  are  softened  with  6 Gm.  of  water,  the  mixture  diluted,  transferred  to  a tared 
flask,  and  sufficient  water  added  to  make  54  Gm.  After  one  hour  the  mixture  is  trans- 
ferred to  a filter  10  Cm.  in  diameter.  To  42  Gm.  of  the  filtrate  2 Gm.  of  a mixture  of 
17  Gm.  of  ammonia  water  and  83  Gm.  of  water  are  added  and  thoroughly  mixed,  without 
shaking  too  severely,  and  then  immediately  transferred  to  a filter  10  Cm.  in  diameter. 
36  Gm.  of  this  filtrate  are  shaken  in  an  accurately  tared  flask  with  10  Gm.  of  ether  and 
4 Gm.  of  the  above  diluted  ammonia-water,  continuing  the  agitation  until  the  liquid 
becomes  clear.  After  six  hours  the  ethereal  layer  is  poured  as  well  as  possible  on  a filter 
8 Cm.  in  diameter.  Add  to  the  liquid  remaining  in  the  flask  10  Gm.  of  ether,  rotate  and 
transfer  the  ethereal  layer  to  the  filter  and  lastly  also  the  aqueous  solution.  The  flask 
and  filter  are  then  washed  twice  with  5 Gm.  of  water,  which  is  saturated  with  ether. 
After  completely  draining  the  flask  and  the  filter,  both  are  dried  at  100°  C.  The  crystals 
collected  on  the  filter  are  then  transferred  to  the  flask,  and  the  heating  continued  until 
the  weight  is  constant.  The  morphine  obtained  should  weigh  not  less  than  0.4  Gm. 
The  morphine  thus  obtained  should  be  soluble  in  100  parts  of  lime-water  with  a yellow- 
ish color  when  remaining  in  contact  for  several  hours.  The  gradual  addition  of  chlorine- 
water  should  cause  a brown-red,  and  ferric  chloride  a blue  or  green  color. — P.  G. 

Numerous  other  processes  and  modifications  have  been  recommended.  The  principal 
difficulties  encountered  in  most  of  them  are  (1)  the  large  quantity  of  water  required  for 
extracting  the  morphine,  frequently  rendering  the  concentration  of  the  solution  neces- 
sary, which  should  always  be  accomplished  at  a moderate  heat  ; and  (2)  the  impurities 
which  are  always  precipitated  with  the  morphine,  and  which  consist  of  coloring  matter 
with  or  without  narcotine  ; the  latter  may  be  removed  by  ether,  but  in  decolorizing  the 
precipitate,  either  by  alcohol  or  with  the  aid  of  animal  charcoal,  there  ensues  inevitable 
loss. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparations. — Opium  deodoratum,  Deodorized  opium. 
Powdered  opium,  containing  13  to  15  per  cent,  of  morphine,  100  Gm.  ; stronger  ether 
1400  Cc. : sugar  of  milk,  in  fine  powder,  a sufficient  quantity,  to  make  100  parts.  Mace- 
rate the  powdered  opium  with  700  Cc.  of  stronger  ether  in  a well-closed  flask  for  twenty- 
four  hours,  agitating  from  time  to  time.  Pour  off  the  clear  ethereal  solution,  and  repeat 
the  maceration  with  2 other  portions  of  the  ether,  each  of  350  Cc.,  first  for  twelve  hours, 
and  the  last  time  for  2 hours.  Collect  the  residue  in  a weighed  dish,  dry  it,  first  by  a 
very  gentle  heat,  and  finally  at  a temperature  not  above  85°  C.  (185°  F.),  and  mix  it  thor- 
oughly,  by  trituration,  with  enough  sugar  of  milk  to  make  the  product  weigh  100  Gm. 
— U.  /S'.  Instead  of  taking  100  parts  of  powdered  opium,  containing  13  to  15  per  cent, 
of  morphine,  a proportionately  smaller  quantity  of  powdered  opium  of  any  higher  per- 
centage of  morphine  may  be  taken.  The  average  quantity,  in  parts  by  weight,  for  the 
above  formula  is  ascertained  by  dividing  1400  by  the  percentage  of  morphine  in  the 
powdered  opium  selected. 

Aqua  opii,  Opium-water.  From  a mixture  of  1 part  of  bruised  opium  and  10  parts 
of  water  distil  5 parts.  It  is  colorless  and  has  a slight  narcotic  odor. 

Action  and  Uses. — In  doses  varying  from  j grain  to  1 grain,  opium  produces 
usually  a soothing  and  luxurious  calm  of  mind  and  body,  followed  in  the  course  of  forty 
or  fifty  minutes  by  a disposition  to  sleep,  or,  if  sleep  does  not  take  place,  the  body  and 
mind  enjoy  a sense  of  repose  from  external  impressions,  while  the  mind  is  filled  with 
dreamy  and  generally  pleasant  ideas.  The  pulse  at  first  is  quickened,  but  gradually 


1176 


OPIUM. 


becomes  slower,  the  mouth  grows  dry,  and  the  skin  moist.  Excited  consciousness  is  fol- 
lowed by  sleep,  which  is  natural  in  its  phenomena,  and  from  which  one  awakes  refreshed. 
Larger  doses,  as  from  1 to-3  grains,  occasion  turgor  and  redness  of  the  face,  heat  and  ful- 
ness of  the  head,  flashes  of  light  before  the  eyes,  and  contraction  of  the  pupils.  The 
mind  is  excited,  even  to  delirium  ; the  pulse  is -full,  tense,  and  frequent ; the  skin  is  hot 
and  dry,  and  often  there  is  vomiting.  Depression  follows,  with  a slow  and  sometimes 
irregular  pulse ; dulness  oppresses  all  the  functions  of  relation,  and  the  mind  is  torpid ; 
the  muscles  lose  their  co-ordinating  action,  and  the  gait  is  sluggish  and  staggering.  Deep 
sleep,  or  rather  coma,  succeeds ; the  breathing  is  stertorous  and  slow,  and  therefore  the 
exhalation  of  carbon  dioxide  is  diminished  j the  skin  pale  and  damp,  and  the  hands  and  feet 
cold.  The  return  to  consciousness  is  attended  with  depression  of  mind  and  body,  head- 
ache, thirst,  nausea,  and  constipation.  In  narcotism  by  opium,  when  an  excessive  dose 
has  been  taken,  no  stage  of  excitement  occurs ; giddiness  is  speedily  followed  by  insen- 
sibility and  immobility,  the  respiration  is  slow  and  stertorous,  and  then  scarcely  percep- 
tible ; deglutition  is  suspended  ; the  pupils  are  extremely  contracted  ; the  face  is  pale  and 
cadaverous  ; the  muscles  of  the  limbs  are  relaxed.  Vomiting  sometimes  occurs,  but  more 
usually  in  fatal  cases  coma  continues  until  death,  which  is  sometimes  preceded  by  convul- 
sions. In  some  cases  the  urine  is  albuminous  (Zeitsch.  f.  klin.  Med.,  xiv.  506).  After 
death  from  opium-poisoning  the  convolutions  of  the  brain  are  flattened,  the  vessels  of  the 
cerebro-spinal  axis  are  gorged  with  black  blood,  and  the  capillaries  of  the  brain  on  section 
give  out  minute  drops  of  the  same  fluid.  A serous  liquid  is  usually  found  in  the  ventricles 
and  beneath  the  cerebral  surface  of  the  arachnoid.  The  lungs,  heart,  liver,  and  spleen 
are  in  most  cases  distended  with  dark  and  fluid  blood.  It  is  worthy  of  notice  that  some 
persons  who  have  recovered  from  the  immediate  effects  of  a poisonous  dose  of  opium  have 
afterward  died  of  congestion  or  consolidation  of  the  lung,  doubtless  induced  by  the 
narcotic  effects  of  the  poison  (Shapleigh).  Death  has  also  taken  place  by  syncope  after 
apparent  recovery  (Townsend,  Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  Sept.,  1885,  p.  297). 

The  action  of  opium,  like  that  of  all  agents  which  especially  influence  the  nervous 
system,  is  greatly  modified  by  numerous  causes  besides  its  mere  dose.  Thus  it  acts  with 
extreme  energy  in  the  very  young,  because  their  nervous  systems  are  highly  susceptible,  f 
Infants  have  been  narcotized  by  the  milk  of  mothers  under  the  influence  of  opiates. 
Ordinary  doses  are  unsafe  in  the  old,  because,  their  eliminating  functions  being  feeble, 
the  medicine  remains  in  their  blood.  For  the  former  reason,  probably,  females  are,  as  a 
rule,  more  readily  affected  than  males  by  opium.  All  nervous,  susceptible  persons  feel 
its  influence  speedily,  and  often  in  an  abnormal  manner,  being  unduly  excited  by  ordinary 
doses.  On  the  other  hand,  as  in  the  case  of  alcohol,  there  are  persons  who  can  take  with 
impunity  doses  of  opium  which  to  others  would  be  distressing  or  even  fatal.  There  are  j 
those,  also,  in  whom  the  habit  of  using  opiates  has  created  a relative  insensibility  to  the 
action  of  medicinal  doses.  In  other  cases  extreme  pain,  like  that  of  tetanus  or  biliary  ,j 
and  nephritic  colic,  may  neutralize  the  narcotic  operation  of  the  largest  medicinal  doses,  j 

In  a work  like  the  present  a detailed  account  of  the  morbid  effects  produced  by  the 
habitual  use  of  opium  would  be  out  of  place.  They  have  been  briefly  summarized  under 
Morphina,  and  need  not  be  repeated  here.  An  elaborate  discussion  of  the  subject  is 
contained  in  a work  of  one  of  the  present  authors  ( Therapeutics  and  Materia  Medica , 4th 
ed.,  i.  823),  where  the  opium  habit  (in  which  this  drug  or  some  one  or  other  of  its  prep- 
arations is  taken  internally,  hypodermically,  or  by  smoking)  is  illustrated  by  many 
examples,  and  its  influence  on  health  and  life  considered.  To  the  cases  there  cited,  and 
which  prove  that  the  slavery  of  this  habit  may  be  strangely  prolonged,  may  here  be 
added  one  of  more  recent  publication.  It  is  that  of  a former  officer  in  the  English 
army,  who  at  the  alleged  age  of  one  hundred  and  eleven  was  still  living  in  New  York. 

“ He  had  been  an  opium  habituate  for  seventy  years,”  and  at  one  time  his  daily  consump- 
tion of  the  drug  was  90  grains  (Mattison,  New  York  Med.  Record,  xii.  239).  His  extreme 
longevity  makes  any  detail  of  its  morbid  effects  superfluous.  Indeed,  the  chief  disorders 
it  produced  consisted  of  obstinate  constipation  when  the  dose  of  opium  was  very  large, 
and  diarrhoea  when  it  was  suspended  or  greatly  diminished.  (Respecting  the  opium  habit, 
the  following  are  a few  of  the  articles  that  may  be  consulted : Mattison,  Phila.  Jour,  of 
Phar.,  Apr.  1879,  p.  209,  and  N.  Y.  Med.  Record , xxiii.  621  ; Kane,  Med.  Record,  Nov. 
1881,  p.  511  ; Francis,  Lond.  Med.  Times  and  Gaz.,  Jan.  1882,  pp.  87,  116  ; Myers,  Ibid., 
June  1882,  p.  672 ; Moore,  Edinb.  Med.  Jour.,  xxviii.  958  ; Amer.  Jour.  Med.  Sci.,  Oct. 
1884,  p.  510  ; Jour.  Amer.  Med.  Assoc.,  xi.  419.  That  the  misery  and  danger  of  opium- 
smoking are  much  less  than  attend  on  alcoholic  intemperance,  compare  Boston  Med.  and 
Surg.  Jour.,  Oct.  1888,  p.  416,  and  Med.  Record,  xxxvi.  288). 


OPIUM. 


1177 


The  several  constituents  of  opium  which  have  been  isolated  by  chemical  analysis  man- 
ifest various  modes  of  action,  which  differ  more  or  less  widely  from  those  of  opium  itself. 
While  morphine , as  we  have  shown  elsewhere,  very  nearly  represents  the  crude  drug,  and 
codeine,  meconine,  papaverine,  cryptopine,  and  narceine  share  with  it  a certain  soporific 
virtue,  the  remaining  elements,  narcotine,  thebaine,  etc.,  are  almost  if  not  entirely  desti- 
tute of  this  quality.  The  following  statements  represent  the  ambiguous  condition  of 
existing  knowledge  on  these  subjects  : 

Narcotine  was  first  introduced  as  an  anti-periodic,  and,  although  freely  given,  was  not 
suspected  of  possessing  narcotic  properties.  Experiments  upon  animals  prove  it  to  be 
eminently  a tetanizing  agent,  and  productive  at  the  same  time  of  great  depression  ; yet 
some  observers  report  its  possession  of  a slight  narcotic  power.  According  to  others, 
this  power  is  distinctly  manifested  in  man  by  doses  of  from  Gm.  0.60-2  (10  to  20  or  30 
grains),  yet  it  is  certain  that  it  has  been  administered  as  a tonic  and  anti-periodic  in  Gm. 
2 (30-grain)  doses  without  producing  any  narcotic  effects.  The  conclusion  almost  neces- 
sarily is,  that  the  alkaloid  was  not  pure  in  the  former  case,  but  contaminated  with  mor- 
phine. Papaverine  is,  on  the  one  hand,  alleged  to  be  hypnotic,  and  even  the  “ prime  hyp- 
notic element  of  opium,”  an  arterial  and  nervous  sedative ; and,  on  the  other,  it  is  by 
turns  pronounced  inert,  tetanizing,  relaxing*  and  a heightener  of  reflex  action.  Physi- 
ological experimenters  have  demonstrated  that  thebaine  is  eminently  a convulsifying 
agent,  the  “most  potent  of  all  the  poisonous  constituents  of  opium.”  In  man  it  is  ano- 
dyne and  soporific  in  the  hypodermic  dose  of  Gm.  0.10  (1J  grains),  and  is  nearly  equiv- 
alent to  1 grain  of  a salt  of  morphine,  while  it  does  not  occasion  headache  and  nausea. 
Cryptopine  appears  to  be  closely  analogous  in  its  action  to  thebaine,  tetanizing  some  of 
the  lower  animals,  convulsing  others.  In  man  it  acts  like  morphine,  but  without  the 
unpleasant  consequences  due  to  the  latter  alkaloid.  It  is  stated  to  be  about  one-fourth 
as  strong  as  morphine.  Meconine , when  administered  even  in  large  doses  hypodermically 
to  large  animals,  and  by  the  mouth  to  man,  appears  to  be  quite  inert ; but  hypodermically, 
in  doses  of  from  Gm.  0.03-0.10  (^  grain  to  I2  grains),  it  produces  in  man  a moderately 
hypnotic  effect.  The  action  of  codeine , which  is  now  official,  is  discussed  elsewhere. 
Narceine  was  once  proclaimed  to  possess  all  the  virtues,  without  any  of  the  defects,  of 
morphine,  and  as  being  operative  in  an  equal  dose.  The  usual  contraindications  of  physi- 
ological experiment  and  therapeutical  observation  have  only  left  the  fact  to  survive  that 
it  is  soporific  for  cold-blooded  animals,  and  for  man  a feeble  though  pure  hypnotic  in  the 
dose  of  5 grains  and  upward,  but,  being  at  the  same  time  rare  and  costly,  it  is  practically 
useless  as  a medicine.  In  fact,  the  existence  of  a separate  body  described  as  narceine  is 
no  longer  accepted  (Dujardin-Beaumetz,  Ball,  de  Ther .,  cxvii.  339).  The  peculiar  action 
of  apomorphine  has  been  fully  described  elsewhere  (p.  236)  ; it  may  suffice  in  this  place 
to  say  that  it  is  an  emetic  and  general  depressant.  According  to  Ott.  chlorocodide  is  a 
tetanizing  agent ; apocodeine  produces  vomiting,  coma,  and  death ; cotarnine  is  soporific, 
and  paralyzes  the  motor  nerves;  hydrocotarnine  is  narcotic  and  convulsivant ; laudanosine 
and  laudanine  are  tetanic  agents.  In  1878,  Bardet  undertook  a course  of  experiments  to 
determine,  if  possible,  the  relative  value  of  the  principal  constituents  of  opium,  and 
reached  the  following  conclusions : Codeine  in  small  doses  is  null,  in  large  doses  a fruit- 
less and  distressing  agent ; narceine  has  either  no  real  existence  or  is  totally  inert  as  a 
narcotic  ; and  morphine  “ is  the  sole  useful  and  narcotic  alkaloid  of  opium  ” (Bull,  de 
Therap .,  c.  78). 

In  1883,  Von  Schroeder  pursued  this  investigation  much  more  thoroughly  and  minutely 
(Archiv.  f.  exp.  Pathol,  etc.,  xvii.  96).  Space  is  wanting  to  detail  his  results,  but  they 
proved,  as  Bardet’s  had  done,  that  morphine  is  the  only  true  narcotic  element  of  opium, 
and  that  codeine,  papaverine,  narcotine,  and  thebaine  are  mainly  tetanizing  agents  and 
but  slightly  narcotic.  Narceine  he  held  to  be  wholly  inoperative.  Thus  the  most  recent 
results  as  substantially  agree  as  the  early  ones  were  at  variance  with  one  another. 

The  different  modes  of  action  of  opium,  according  to  its  dose,  upon  the  two  great  vivi- 
fying  elements  of  the  animal  economy,  its  stimulant  and  sedative  operations,  upon  the 
nervous  and  circulatory  systems,  and  its  directly  anaesthetic  influence  in  all  doses,  render 
it  the  most  useful  of  all  medicines,  as  well  as  the  most  multifarious  in  its  applications. 
It  relieves  pain,  allays  agitation,  delirium,  and  spasm,  restrains  tissue-change,  secretion, 
and  haemorrhage,  and  both  directly  and  indirectly  supports  the  powers  of  the  system. 
By  the  possession  of  these  manifold  virtues  it  becomes  the  most  fitting  associate  of 
numerous  other  medicines,  the  operation  of  which  it  moderates,  exalts,  or  directs. 

Fevers. — It  is  an  old  precept,  which  all  judicious  experience  has  confirmed,  that  opium 
ought  not  to  be  prescribed  at  the  onset  nor  at  the  climax  of  a continued  fever,  but  during 


1178 


OPIUM. 


the  augment  to  appease  its  violence,  and  during  the  decline  to  support  the  strength  and 
calm  the  nervous  symptoms  which  denote  exhaustion.  In  typhus  its  greatest  usefulness 
is  not  when  the  strongest  tendency  to  stupor  exists,  but  when  muttering  delirium,  jactita- 
tion, tremor,  and  spasm  denote  exhausted  nervous  power ; but  even  then  it  must  be  used 
in  such  doses  only  as  revive,  and  not  in  such  as  tend  to  oppress,  the  brain.  In  the  rarer 
cases  of  this  disease  presenting  violent  delirium,  a furious  aspect,  suffusion  of  the  eyes, 
constant  raving  and  muttering,  and  perfect  sleeplessness,  moderate  doses  of  a liquid 
preparation  of  opium,  associated  with  tartar  emetic,  according  to  a former  practice,  or 
with  veratrum  viride  or  digitalis,  or  one  of  the  so-called  antipyretics,  as  more  recently 
employed,  will  often  render  the  patient  tranquil  and  induce  refreshing  sleep.  These 
remarks  are  equally  applicable  to  all  forms  of  disease  when  the  typhoid  state , character- 
ized by  the  above  phenomena,  is  present,  and  especially  to  typhoid  fever , and  to  smallpox 
as  it  occurs  in  adults.  In  the  latter  disease  it  has  been  associated  with  the  subcutaneous 
injection  of  ether.  But  opiates  in  the  diseases  of  children,  and  especially  in  their  erup- 
tive fevers,  are  seldom  useful,  and  often  involve  serious  risk.  Another  object  of  employ- 
ing opium  in  the  exanthematous  fevers  is  to  hasten  the  development  of  the  eruption  when 
it  is  tardy  and  imperfect.  Under  such  circumstances  the  medicine  should  be  given  in 
small  and  repeated  doses,  and  associated  with  external  heat  and  rubefacients  and  internal 
diffusible  stimulants.  Before  the  introduction  of  cinchona,  opium  was  generally  used  to 
abort  the  paroxysms  of  periodical  fevers , which  it  did  by  creating  a vascular  excitement 
opposed  to  the  formation  of  the  chill,  and  inducing  artificially  a diaphoresis  which  also 
prevented  that  stage  of  the  attack.  In  the  same  manner  it  is  often  now  associated  wTith 
quinine,  whose  specific  operation  it  favors.  Another  mode  of  using  opium  in  intermittent 
fever  is  to  administer  it  in  so  large  a dose  as  to  hold  the  nervous  system  in  a state  of 
immobility,  and  so  prevent  the  formation  of  the  paroxysm. 

Inflammation  is  less  directly  under  the  control  of  opium  than  idiopathic  fever,  yet  its 
judicious  employment,  by  lessening  pain,  tends  to  prevent  an  aggravation  of  the  disorder 
and  to  allow  the  natural  recuperative  powers  their  full  operation.  In  chronic  inflamma- 
tions, also,  attended  with  constitutional  irritation  and  hectic  fever,  opium  exerts  a salutary 
restraining  influence.  After  severe  operations  it  tends  to  prevent  the  irritative  fever  ; 
which  the  shock  of  pain  and  loss  of  blood,  and  the  consequent  reaction,  are  apt  to  ejxcite.  > 
As  a rule,  the  dose  required  is  large  and  sedative.  In  haemorrhage , even  of  the  active 
sort,  opium  js  sometimes  of  service  by  diminishing  the  agitation  upon  which  its  contin- 
uance depends,  and  especially  by  allaying  the  excitability  of  the  nervous  system  of  the 
heart ; but  its  greater  utility  is  in  cases  of  passive  haemorrhage  accompanied  by  a similar 
excitability.  Possibly,  also,  it  may  directly  contract  the  capillaries.  The  use  of  opium  > 
in  gangrene , advocated  by  Pott,  and  Hoffmann,  Eberle,  and  Travers,  has  been  eulogized 
by  Mr.  Pollock  (Brit.  Med.  Jour.,  April,  1884,  p.  799),  who  advocates  it  “ in  almost  every  <■ 
condition  approaching  to  gangrene  or  partaking  of  it,”  including  senile  gangrene,  gan- 
grenous ulcers,  simple  and  syphilitic  phagedaena,  and  gangrene  of  the  mouth,  but  exclu-  - 
ding  “ traumatic  spreading  gangrene.” 

All  forms  of  pain  are  palliated  by  opiates,  but  the  more  independent  pain  is  of  material 
lesions,  as  in  pure  neuralgia , the  more  efficient  are  these  remedies,  unless,  perhaps,  when 
the  narcotic  operation  suspends  the  action  of  the  physical  cause  of  pain.  All  forms  of 
spasmodic  pain,  of  the  bowels,  bladder,  uterus,  gall,  and  urinary  ducts,  etc.,  are  lessened 
by  suspending  the  spasm  in  which  the  pain  arises.  Pain  due  to  movements  of  the  affected 
part  is  directly  palliated  by  opium,  and  indirectly  by  promoting  rest.  In  nearly  all  pain- 
ful disorders  the  dose  of  opium  must  be  proportioned  to  the  degree  of  pain.  The  toler- 
ance of  large  doses  of  the  drug  during  severe  pain,  and  also  in  prolonged  spasmodic 
attacks  like  tetanus,  is  a remarkable  fact.  Opium  is  seldom  appropriate  for  pain  within 
the  head ; it  may  dangerously  mask  this  symptom  in  other  cases  where  pain  is  the  chief 
indication  of  the  disease.  Of  the  latter,  strangulated  hernia  is  an  example.  After  the 
operation  for  this  accident  the  bowels  should  be  restrained  by  full  doses  of  opium.  In 
case  of  peritonitis  the  use  of  opiates  becomes  all  the  more  urgent.  (See  below.) 

Sleeplessness  is  relieved  by  the  direct  action  of  opium,  and  also  indirectly,  in  so  far  as 
opium  removes  the  cause  that  prevents  sleep,  whether  it  be  pain,  mental  excitement,  or 
exhaustion,  etc. ; but  very  often  it  fails  of  its  effect,  although  given  in  large  doses,  in 
such  excessive  excitement  as  occurs  in  mania  a potu,  acute  insanity,  meningeal  inflamma- 
tion in  some  of  its  forms,  etc.  Moreover,  if  long  continued,  its  utility  as  a hypnotic  is 
more  than  counterbalanced  by  the  danger  of  forming  the  opium  habit,  by  the  derange- 
ment of  digestion,  secretion,  etc.  which  it  induces,  particularly  as  its  original  effects  can 
only  be  maintained  by  largely  increased  doses  of  the  drug.  A study  of  the  opium  treat- 


OPIUM. 


1179 


ment  of  melancholia,  mania,  and  dementia  has  not  furnished  favorable  results  (Ziehen, 
Therap.  Monatsheft .,  iii.  61  ; 115).  In  puerperal  insanity  it  is  more  beneficial  than  in 
other  forms  of  mental  disorder,  particularly  when  morphine  is  used  hypodermically. 
The  treatment  of  delirium  tremens  by  large  doses  of  opium,  which  at  one  time  prevailed, 
was  most  unfavorable  in  its  results ; and  if  the  drug  is  used  at  all  in  this  disorder,  its 
doses  should  be  small  and  repeated,  so  as  to  produce  a primary  stimulant  and  not  a nar- 
cotic operation.  We  have  observed  with  intense  regret  a tendency  to  revive  the  practice 
of  administering  large  doses  of  opiates  in  this  disease.  In  one  case  5 grains  of  morphine 
were  given  subcutaneously  in  2 doses,  and  in  another  no  less  than  8 grains  within  four 
hours  {Med.  Times  and  Gaz.:  March  11  and  18,  1876).  The  mortality  of  delirium 
tremens  under  the  opium  treatment,  as  formally  practised,  was  enormous,  and  is  remem- 
bered by  the  present  writer  as  one  of  the  most  painful  features  of  his  hospital  life.  Since 
that  time,  with  an  expectant  and  rational  treatment  , he  has  rarely  had  occasion  to  witness 
a death  from  this  disease.  In  epidemic  cerebro-spinal  meningitis  opium  is  probably  the 
most  efficient  of  all  the  remedies  that  have  been  employed.  But  its  utility  is  most  con- 
spicuous in  those  cases  of  the  disease  in  which  spasm  (i.  e.  spinal  irritation)  predominates 
over  septic  phenomena,  and  when  it  is  administered  steadily  from  the  commencement  of 
the  attack.  Sunstroke  marked  by  nervous  symptoms,  such  as  convulsions,  twitchings, 
delirium,  and  general  excitement,  is  greatly  benefited  by  the  hypodermic  injection  of 
morphine.  Opium  may  be  used  as  a palliative  in  epilepsy , hysteria , eclampsia , and  spasm 
of  the  glottis;  and  although  it  is  contraindicated  in  obstruction  of  the  kidneys,  as  in 
Bright’s  disease,  it  is  nevertheless  of  great  value  in  ursemic  convulsions , especially  in  the 
form  of  hypodermic  injections. 

In  obstinate  cases  of  chorea  the  sustained  use  of  opium  has  sometimes  been  followed 
by  a great  reduction  of  the  spasmodic  movements,  and  even  by  cure.  Hardly  any 
remedy  has  effected  as  much  good  in  traumatic  tetanus  as  opium,  even  when  given  by 
the  mouth,  although  a large  portion  of  the  drug  is  wasted  by  this  mode  of  administra- 
tion. The  liquid  preparations  are  preferable,  and  superior  to  these  again  is  the  hypo- 
dermic injection  of  morphine.  Neither  method  should  exclude  the  due  employment  at 
the  same  time  of  other  remedies,  and  especially  of  counter-irritation  of  the  spine  and 
the  use  of  alcohol.  In  this  disease  larger  doses  of  opiates  are  required  than  in  any  other. 
In  the  somewhat  analogous  affection  produced  by  strychnine-poisoning  subcutaneous  injec- 
tions of  morphine  have  proved  curative.  The  use  of  opiates  in  neuralgia  is , most  efficient 
when  the  salts  of  morphine  are  injected  hypodermically,  as  is  elsewhere  at  greater  length 
described.  (See  Morphina.)  This  statement  applies  to  internal  as  well  as  external 
neuralgia. 

In  diseases  of  the  respiratory  organs  pain  and  cough  are  the  symptoms  which  especially 
call  for  the  use  of  opiate  preparations,  which  relieve  the  former  directly  as  well  as  dimin- 
ish the  violent  movements  accompanying  the  latter  symptom.  So  far  as  the  pain  caused  by 
coughing  depends  upon  pleural  inflammation  or  upon  the  action  of  muscles  affected  with 
rheumatism,  opium  affords  certain  relief,  while  it  palliates  also  the  painful  sensations 
accompanying  acute  bronchitis.  But  as  coughing  is  largely  a conservative  act,  tending 
to  prevent  the  accumulation  of  secretions  in  the  bronchia,  opium  must  not  be  employed 
in  such  doses  as  tend  to  prevent  this  salutary  operation ; hence  it  must  be  cautiously 
used,  if  at  all,  when  the  bronchia  are  filled  with  their  secretions.  In  the  forming  stage 
of  pulmonary  catarrh  or  bronchitis , when  the  air-tubes  are  dry  and  irritable  and  coughing 
painful,  opium,  especially  with  ipecacuanha,  as  in  Dover’s  powder,  will  sometimes  mitigate, 
or  even  terminate,  the  attack  by  promoting  the  pulmonary  and  cutaneous  secretions. 
Opium  has  been  used  in  the  form  of  morphine,  hypodermically,  with  reported  advantage 
in  arresting  the  development  of  autumnal  catarrh.  . Narceine  has  been  credited  with 
the  cure  of  whooping  cough , but  upon  insufficient  grounds.  In  pneumonia  and  pleurisy 
opium  should  be  restricted  to  moderating  cough  and  pain  ; and  the  same  may  be  said  of 
chronic  phthisis.  In  the  latter,  if  habitually  used,  it  is  very  apt  to  impair  digestion  and 
hasten  the  patient’s  decline,  but  is  nevertheless  almost  indispensable  when  the  cough  is 
harassing.  It  may  sometimes  be  given  in  an  atomized  solution  more  profitably  than 
when  otherwise  administered.  In  asthma  hypodermic  injections  of  morphine  are  efficient 
palliatives.  In  our  lectures  on  the  Practice  of  Medicine  we  were  in  the  habit  of  recom- 
mending opiates  in  spasmodic  croup  (An  Epitome  of  Medicine , etc.,  1883,  p.  82).  More 
recently  a similar  treatment  has  been  advocated  by  Dr.  Arthur  V.  Meigs  (Med.  News , 
1889,  liv.  311).  In  the  various  affections  of  the  heart,  of  which  angina  pectoris  is  a 
more  or  less  frequent  symptom,  opium,  but  still  more  morphine,  is  an  invaluable  palliative, 
and  that  without  too  closely  regarding  the  special  lesion  upon  which  the  pain  and  the 


1180 


OPIUM. 


disordered  action  of  the  heart  depend.  Of  heart  lesions  which  accompany  such  attacks 
those  of  the  mitral  valve  are  the  most  frequent.  For  the  relief  by  opium  of  all  symp- 
toms depending  upon  a positive  or  relative  debility  of  the  heart  the  medicine  must  be 
given  so  as  to  stimulate ; that  is  to  say,  in  small  and  repeated  doses. 

Among  diseases  of  the  digestive  organs  the  symptoms  most  appropriately  treated  by 
opium  are  vomiting,  pain,  and  diarrhoea.  All  forms  of  vomiting  are  more  or  less  under 
its  control,  as  that  of  sea-sichness,  of  pregnancy,  of  reflex  irritation  generally,  and  of  dis- 
eases affecting  the  stomach  itself.  In  the  last  opium  is  often  given  in  the  form  of  an  old 
or  hard  pill,  but  the  hypodermic  injection  of  morphine  is  usually  more  efficient.  Simple 
idcer  of  the  stomach  as  a cause  of  vomiting  is  sometimes  treated  with  opium  and  its 
preparations,  but  they  are  unnecessary  when  the  diet  is  properly  regulated  and  bismuth 
or  lime-water  is  employed.  In  pure  gastralgia  these  medicines  are  often  extremely 
valuable  as  palliatives,  but  other  means  are  required  to  cure  the  disease  through  the 
removal  of  its  cause.  When  used,  they  should  be  administered  10  or  15  minutes  before 
meals,  and  also  when  a paroxysm  is  imminent. 

Of  the  use  of  opiates  in  diarrhoea,  it  may  be  remarked  that  the  less  this  symptom 
depends  upon  material  lesions  or  upon  irritating  crude  ingesta,  the  more  efficient  are 
opium  and  its  preparations  as  remedies.  Indeed,  they  only  hasten  somewhat  the  natural 
cure  by  moderating  the  peristaltic  action  and  diminishing  the  secretions  of  the  intestine. 
Otherwise,  they  act  as  aids  to  absorbents  and  astringents,  such  as  chalk,  tannin,  etc. 

In  dysentery  opium  is  of  less  value  for  its  curative  properties  than  as  a palliative  of  the 
tormina  and  tenesmus  which  belong  to  the  active  forms  of  this  disease  ; but  even  these 
symptoms  are  more  successfully  relieved  by  the  evacuant  method,  either  alone  or  in 
alternation  with  the  administration  of  opium  by  the  mouth  and  by  the  rectum  in  enemata  1 
or  suppositories.  When  once  the  violence  of  the  disease  is  subdued,  moderate  doses  of 
opium  greatly  hasten  its  termination.  In  the  chronic  form  of  dysentery  the  main  reli- 
ance must  be  upon  diet,  especially  upon  a milk  diet,  but  opium  with  astringents  is  the  ' 
best  medicinal  remedy.  In  lientery  opium,  with  or  without  astringents,  is  almost  indis- 
pensable. It  is  by  far  the  best  remedy  in  cholera  morbus.  No  evacuant  medicines  need 
be  first  administered.  A grain  of  opium  should  be  given  every  half  hour  in  severe  i 
cases,  the  patient  refraining  from  the  use  of  liquids  as  much  as  possible.  Enemata  of 
laudanum  should  also  be  employed,  or  the  treatment  may  be  confided  to  the  hypodermic 
use  of  morphine.  Care  should  be  taken  not  to  exceed  the  needful  quantity  of  the  drug 
administered,  on  account  of  the  depression  which  is  apt  to  follow  the  use  of  large  doses. 

In  epidemic  cholera,  depending  as  it  does  upon  a specific  cause,  opium  cannot  be  as  con- 
fidently relied  upon  ; indeed,  the  records  of  its  use  in  this  disease  are  extremely  dis- 
couraging. But  in  the  forming  stage,  or  that  of  premonitory  diarrhoea  when  that  stage 
exists,  opium  with  chalk  and  vegetable  astringents  is  invaluable.  The  tender  age  and 
great  susceptibility  to  the  influence  of  opium  of  the  ordinary  subjects  of  cholera  infantum 
render  opium  an  unsafe  remedy  for  that  affection,  notwithstanding  the  apparently  clear 
indications  for  its  use  in  the  nature  of  the  disease.  If  used  at  all,  it  should  be  in  the 
form  of  Dover’s  powder  alone  or  along  with  gray  powder  or  calomel. 

The  symptom  colic,  as  a form  of  pain,  is  of  course  amenable  to  a treatment  by  opiates, 
but  it  is  a symptom  connected  with  very  numerous  and  dissimilar  conditions.  In  the 
ordinary  form,  due  to  flatulent  dyspepsia  of  the  bowel,  opium  with  diffusible  or  carmina- 
tive stimulants  affords  prompt  relief.  In  painted s colic,  which  is  attended  with  intestinal 
contraction  and  spasm,  opium  is  the  best  remedy,  especially  in  alternation  with  purgatives. 
Biliary  and  nephritic  colic  are  most  efficiently  treated  by  opium  ; and  when  pain  arises 
from  any  of  the  various  acute  forms  of  intestinal  displacement  ( invagination , hernia ),  the 
moderate  but  sustained  use  of  opiates  is  infinitely  preferable  to  the  too  common  method 
of  attempting  to  force  an  evacuation  by  means  of  purgatives.  (Compare  Curshmann, 
Therap.  Monatshefte,  iii.  201).  In  all  of  these  cases  the  hypodermic  use  of  morphine  is 
preferable  to  opium  internally.  (Compare  Post,  New  York  Med.  Record,  xxi.  431.)  Of 
the  several  forms  of  peritonitis,  those  only  whith  are  due  to  traumatic  causes,  such  as  exter- 
nal violence  and  perforation  or  irritation  of  the  peritoneum  by  diseases  of  the  organs 
which  it  covers,  are  favorably  influenced  by  opium ; but  in  these  it  is  indispensable,  for 
by  its  means  alone  can  that  repose  of  the  abdominal  organs  be  secured  which  is  necessary 
to  control  the  degree  and  extent  of  the  inflammation.  In  puerperal  peritonitis,  although 
it  has  been  employed  in  heroic  doses  and  emphatically  praised,  it  has  not  been  generally 
recognized  as  appropriate. 

Among  diseases  of  the  genito-urinary  organs  opium  is  an  efficient  palliative  in 
nephritic  colic , already  referred  to,  and  in  all  the  spasmodic  affections  of  the  ureters , 


OPIUM. 


1181 


bladder , and  urethra,  such  as  arise  during  calculous  disorders  and  inflammation  of 
these  several  parts.  Thus  it  is  a usual  remedy  for  chordee , although  generally  associated 
with  camphor.  In  all  of  these  cases  it  is  best  administered  by  the  rectum.  It  should 
never  be  used  in  Bright's  disease.  Opium  is  superior  to  any  other  single  medicine  in 
diminishing  the  quantity  and  the  saccharine  quality  of  the  urine  in  diabetes  when  admin- 
istered in  full  and  progressively  increasing  doses  until  a partial  tolerance  of  the  drug  is 
induced.  At  the  same  time  it  lessens  the  thirst  and  hunger,  renders  the  skin  softer,  and 
the  mind  less  despondent.  Its  most  efficient  coadjutors  are  exercise  and  appropriate  food. 
(See  case,  Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  Sept.  1881,  p.  277.)  It  is  an  efficient  palliative  of 
the  grinding  pains  which  precede  actual  labor,  and  for  those  uterine  contractions  which  so 
often  lead  to  abortion  or  premature  labor.  Hypodermic  morphine  injections  are  more 
efficient  than  opium  in  such  cases.  The  same  means  are  frequently  employed  in  dysmen* 
orrhoea.  In  these  various  affections,  and  in  all  others  within  the  pelvis  for  which  opium 
is  appropriate,  suppositories  containing  this  drug  or  its  derivatives,  and  enemata  with 
laudanum,  are  especially  indicated.  In  constitutional  syphilis  opium  has  been  erroneously 
represented  as  a means  of  cure.  It  only  allays  constitutional  irritability  and  procures 
rest  from  nocturnal  pains.  In  the  primary  forms  of  the  disease  it  is  useful  as  a dressing 
for  irritable  sores. 

Muscular  rheumatism  may  generally  be  relieved  by  opium,  used  so  as  to  produce  free 
diaphoresis,  and  especially  in  the  form  of  Dover’s  powder.  It  is  much  more  efficient  in 
the  forming  stage  of  the  attack  than  later.  In  articular  rheumatism  it  has  sometimes 
been  used  as  an  exclusive  treatment,  but  with  very  unfavorable  results,  in  that  it  aug- 
ments the  frequency  and  the  gravity  of  cardiac  complications.  It  is,  however,  valuable 
as  an  anodyne  and  soporific,  thereby  husbanding  the  patient’s  strength  while  the  disease 
is  removed  by  eliminative  medicines.  In  the  same  manner  it  is  useful  in  gout,  and  partic- 
ularly its  liquid  preparations.  When  this  disease  becomes  retrocedent , and  especially 
when  it  attacks  the  stomach,  opiates  associated  with  diffusible  stimulants  are  the  most 
reliable  remedies.  Wine  of  opium  or  laudanum  should  then  be  administered  in  doses  of 
from  Gm.  2-3  (40  to  60  drops)  every  hour  by  the  mouth  or  rectum,  or  morphine  may  be 
employed  hypodermically. 

The  use  of  opium  in  poisoning  by  Belladonna,  Atropina,  Strychnina,  Stramon- 
ium, and  Physostigma  will  be  found  described  under  those  several  titles. 

As  a local  remedy  opium  has  already  been  noticed  in  connection  with  various  painful 
affections;  the  uses  of  morphine  in  this  respect  are  even  more  numerous.  But  the  liquid 
preparations  of  opium  in  liniments,  epithems,  poultices,  etc.  as  topical  anodynes  are  more 
habitually  employed.  A watery  solution  is  used  as  a dressing  for  irritable  ulcers;  the 
wine  of  opium  is  an  admirable  anodyne  and  stimulant  in  granular  conjunctivitis  and  ulcers 
of  the  cornea;  in  earache  laudanum  and  sweet  oil  are  applied  on  cotton  to  the  auditory 
canal ; in  toothache  a small  piece  of  opium  may  be  introduced  into  the  hollow  of  a carious 
tooth,  or,  still  better,  a solution  of  morphine  in  chloroform,  saturating  a plug  of  cotton, 
may  be  similarly  applied,  or  in  rheumatic  toothache  the  gums  may  be  bathed  with  laud- 
anum. In  paronychia  and  numerous  other  forms  of  painful  local  inflammation  the  ano- 
dyne operation  of  opium  and  its  preparations  lessens  the  inflammation  by  assuaging  the 
pain. 

The  rational  and  habitual  method  of  treating  poisoning  by  opium  consists  in  empty- 
ing the  stomach  of  whatever  portion  it  still  contains  of  the  poison,  and  in  keeping 
the  nervous  system  stimulated  and  the  respiratory  apparatus  active,  and  so  prevent- 
ing or  diminishing  narcotism  until  the  poison  is  eliminated  from  the  system.  For  the 
first  purpose  emetics  are  indicated ; e.  g.  large  draughts  of  warm  salt  and  water,  mus- 
tard-water, or  water  containing  ipecacuanha,  sulphate  of  zinc,  or  sulphate  of  copper. 
Tartar  emetic  should  nfcver  be  prescribed,  unless  other  evacuants  fail.  It  has  been  suc- 
cessfully employed  by  the  rectum  and  also  by  the  veins.  Vomiting  should  be  favored  by 
tickling  the  fauces.  If  these  means  are  not  promptly  and  completely  efficient,  the  stom- 
ach-pump should  be  resorted  to.  When  solid  opium  has  been  taken — which,  however,  is 
rarely  the  case — the  stomach-pump  is  of  secondary  importance.  To  counteract  narco- 
tism, stimulants  of  the  general  nervous  system  and  of  the  respiratory  apparatus  are 
employed,  both  internally  and  externally.  One  of  the  best,  as  well  as  the  most  acces- 
sible, is  a strong  infusion  of  coffee,  given  without  sugar  or  cream,  but  with  a small  pro- 
portion of  brandy  or  whiskey.  A strong  infusion  of  green  tea  is  nearly  as  efficient. 
The  mydriatics  (belladonna  and  stramonium)  and  also  nitrite  of  amyl  have  been  employed 
as  direct  antidotes.  Their  value  is  estimated  in  the  articles  devoted  to  those  medicines. 
A single  illustration  of  the  efficacy  of  atropine  may  be  mentioned  here : A man  had  taken 


1182 


OPOPANAX. 


2\  ounces  of  laudanum,  none  of  which  was  rejected  or  removed,  and  no  remedies  were 
applied  until  two  hours  had  elapsed.  Then  1 grain  of  atropine  was  given  hypodermically 
in  four  hours  and  in  six  doses.  The  man  recovered  (Bryant,  Med.  Record , xviii.  648). 
Fluid  extract  of  gelsemium  has  been  employed  hypodermically  with  advantage.  Its  seda- 
tive action  should  be  watched.  Of  external  means  for  stimulating  the  nervous  system,  one 
of  the  best  is  to  cause  the  patient  to  walk,  as  long  as  he  is  able,  supported  between  two 
assistants,  while  his  attention  is  kept  aroused  by  conversation  or  by  flagellating  the  back 
with  a whip  of  fine  cords  or  a bundle  of  birch-twigs.  Unless  the  impression  made  is  I 
sharp  it  is  almost  useless.  Hence  the  electrical  brush  answers  remarkably  well  for  this 
purpose.  Cold,  or  alternate  heat  and  cold,  affusion,  made  to  the  upper  part  of  the  body,  I 
produce  a powerful  impression  and  excite  the  respiratory  act.  The  partial  restoration  of  | 
consciousness  by  these  means  is  sometimes  accompanied  by  a renewal  of  the  susceptibility 
of  the  stomach,  and  the  emetics  it  may  contain  excite  vomiting.  Ammonia  may  be  held 
to  the  nostrils  occasionally,  and  mustard  applied  over  the  epigastrium  and  heart ; but  the 
irritation  produced  by  these  agents  makes  it  necessary  to  watch  their  action.  Artificial 
respiration,  although  inferior  to  the  other  means  described,  has  occasionally  been  used  with 
success.  In  infants  the  natural  resiliency  of  the  ribs  renders  this  agency  especially  useful. 

The  cure  of  the  opium-habit  consists  either  in  gradually  diminishing  the  quantity  of 
the  drug  consumed,  and  the  substitution  for  it  of  aromatic  and  stimulant  tonics,  such  as 
ginger,  black  pepper,  columbo,  quassia,  etc.,  or  in  the  abrupt  cessation  of  the  practice. 
Both  methods  count  a few  successful  cases,  but  the  latter,  while  the  more  efficient,  is  the 
more  arduous,  and,  where  there  is  marked  general  or  cardiac  debility,  is  not  safe.  In  such 
cases  the  preparations  of  coca  are  appropriate.  In  certain  inveterate  cases  it  is  claimed 
that  a cure  has  been  effected  by  prescribing  40  minims  of  dilute  phosphoric  acid  and  80 
minims  of  tincture  of  lupulin  an  hour  before  meals  in  a wine-glassful  of  water.  At 
night  sleep  may  be  promoted  by  tincture  of  cannabis  and  Hoffmann’s  anodyne.  The  ; 
exhausted  digestive  function  should  be  allowed  to  revive  under  simple  food,  such  as 
milk  and  rich  broths,  in  small  quantities  at  a time.  Exercise  and  bathing  should  be  ; 
insisted  upon,  and  zinc,  quinine,  and  iron  may  be  cautiously  administered.  The  various 
secret  nostrums  sold  for  the  cure  of  the  opium  habit  nearly  all  contain  opiates. 

The  average  dose  of  opium  for  an  adult  is  Gm.  0.06  (gr.  j).  This  is  usually  an  objec- 
tionable form  of  its  administration  when  the  medicine  must  be  repeated.  In  that  case  a 
liquid  preparation  should  always  be  preferred.  When  a gradual  operation  is  intended 
an  old  opium  pill  is  the  best,  since  its  slow  solution  prolongs  its  action  and  extends  its 
local  influence  over  a larger  surface.  It  is  also  much  less  apt  than  freshly-made  opium 
pills  to  occasion  nausea.  The  after-effects  of  opium  are  supposed  to  be  mitigated  by 
bromide  of  potassium  in  a full  dose  administered  along  with  the  opiate.  This  apparent 
operation  is  rather  due  to  the  fact  that  with  a full  dose  of  the  bromide  a smaller  one  of 
opium  is  necessary.  Owing  to  the  extreme  susceptibility  of  children  to  opium,  it  should 
rarely  be  prescribed  for  them  in  the  solid  form.  Suppositories  of  opium  for  the  rectum 
and  vagina  are  very  useful  in  local  disorders  of  the  pelvic  organs,  and  the  rectal  forms 
may  also  be  used  when  for  any  reason  the  drug  cannot  be  administered  by  the  mouth. 
But  they  are  less  prompt  in  action  than  enemata  of  liquid  opiates. 

Renarcotized  opium  (opium  deodoratum)  is  supposed  to  be  free  from  narcotine,  and, 
according  to  some,  from  thebaine  also,  and  therefore  that  it  is  less  apt  than  opium  to 
excite  those  distressing  nervous  symptoms  which  the  whole  drug  sometimes  occasions. 
Its  dose  is  the  same  as  that  of  opium. 

Opium-smoking  has  been  recommended  by  Thudicum  as  one  of  the  most  effectual  reme- 
dies for  commencing  coryza , hay  fever , bronchitis , obstinate  coughs , various  neuralgia , and 
hypersesthesise  generally.  The  watery  extract  is  alone  suitable  for  the  purpose.  (For  the 
mode  of  using  opium  in  this  manner  see  Kerr,  Med.  News,  xliii.*402). 

Eschscholtzia  Californica  was  stated  in  1887,  by  Stanislas  Martin,  to  contain 
opium  (Bull,  de  Therap.,  cxii.  375).  The  statement  was  renewed  later  by  Bardet  and 
Adrian  ( Gaz . liebdom .,  Nov.  23,  1888),  and  the  experiments  of  Ter-Zakariant  led  him  to 
conclude  that  the  alcoholic  and  watery  extracts  of  the  plant  had  the  same  virtues  as 
morphine,  but  in  a much  less  degree.  He  administered  from  40  to  150  grains  of  it  a 
day  (Bull,  de  Therap.,  cxvi.  21). 

OPOPANAX,  Fr.  Cod.— Opopanax. 

Opoponaso,  Sp. 

A gum-resin  obtained  from  Opopanax  Chironium,  Koch,  s.  Pastinaca  Opopanax,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Umbelliferse,  Orthospermse. 


ORIGANUM. 


1183 


Origin. — Tile  opopanax-plant  is  a perennial  herb,  with  a long,  thick,  and  fleshy  root,  a 
tall  stem,  large  pinnately  decompound  leaves,  yellow  flowers,  and  dorsally  flattened  fruit 
containing  many  oil-tubes.  It  is  indigenous  to  Southern  Europe.  On  wounding  the  root 
or  lower  part  of  the  stem  a yellowish  milk-juice  exudes,  which  after  hardening  constitutes 
opopanax. 

Description. — The  best,  quality  of  opopanax  is  in  irregular  angular  or  subglobular 
pieces  from  the  size  of  a pea  to  that  of  a walnut,  red-brown  or  yellowish-brown,  friable, 
breaking  with  a flat  somewhat  waxy  fracture,  and  frequently  with  vegetable  fragments 
adhering.  It  has  a strong,  unpleasant  odor,  a balsamic  bitter  taste,  yields  with  water  a 
yellowish  emulsion,  and  when  heated  softens  and  exhales  a rather  alliaceous  odor.  An 
inferior  quality  comes  in  larger  irregular  masses,  which  contain  many  impurities  and  are 
of  a less  bitter  taste. 

Composition. — According  to  Pelletier,  opopanax  contains  42  per  cent,  resin,  33.4 
per  cent,  gum,  besides  volatile  oil,  a little  wax,  starch,  etc. 

Allied  Gum-Resins. — Sagapenum,  obtained  from  a Persian  species  of  Ferula,  is  met  with  in 
yellowish-brown  somewhat  translucent  small  tears,  and  is  frequently  agglutinated  to  larger  pieces, 
of  a bitter  acrid  taste  and  a faint  alliaceous  odor,  which  becomes  prominent  on  heating.  Cake 
sagapenum  is  soft,  adhesive,  brown,  nearly  free  from  tears,  mixed  with  foreign  matters.  A mix- 
ture of  galbanum  and  asafetida  is  sometimes  sold  in  place  of  sagapenum.  Pelletier  and  Brandes 
found  in  sagapenum  50  to  54  per  cent,  of  resin,  32  per  cent,  gum,  with  small  quantities  of  volatile 
oil,  bassorin,  etc. 

Gtmmiresina  heder.e,  Ivy  gum,  is  in  the  Levant  and  Southern  Europe  obtained  from  the  com- 
mon ivy,  Hedera  Helix,  Linne  (nat.  ord.  Araliaceae).  It  is  in  irregular  yellowish  or  reddish- 
brown  pieces,  translucent  on  the  edges,  with  a garnet-red  color,  of  a slightly  bitter  and  some- 
what acrid  taste,  and  when  heated  of  an  agreeable  balsamic  odor.  Pelletier  found  in  a sample 
nearly  70  per  cent,  of  wood-fibre. 

Action  and  Uses. — Opopanax  (“the  all-healing  juice  ”)  is  one  of  the  numerous 
gum  resins,  including  galbanum  and  ammoniac,  which  were  most  esteemed  by  the  ancients. 
Galen  speaks  of  it  and  of  the  root-bark  of  the  plant  as  stimulating  and  cleansing  when 
applied  to  ulcers,  and  of  the  seeds  as  diuretic.  Dioscorides  describes  its  internal  uses  in 
fever  and  ague,  pleurisy,  cough,  dysury,  and  amenorrhoea,  and  its  topical  applications  in 
sprains,  headache,  gout,  toothache,  and  carbuncle.  Arabian  writers  advise  it  in  nervous 
exhaustion,  for  promoting  the  expulsion  of  the  dead  foetus,  for  paralysis,  and  for  inflam- 
mation of  the  eyes.  In  modern  times  it  has  been  used,  like  ammoniac,  for  chronic  bron- 
chitis with  profuse  secretion,  and  externally  in  stimulating  plasters,  but  it  is  now  very 
seldom  employed.  The  dose  may  be  stated  at  Gm.  1.30—2  (gr.  xx-xxx). 

Sagapenum  was  anciently  used  for  the  purposes  to  which  asafetida  and  galbanum  were 
also  applied — i.  e.  to  the  cure  of  chronic  bronchitis  and  other  chronic  catarrhs,  menstrual 
disorders,  hysteria,  etc.  The  gum  of  Hedera  helix  was  held  to  be  acrid  and  astringent, 
stimulant  and  emmenagogue,  and  was  employed  topically  for  the  relief  of  local  pains  and 
the  moderation  of  profluvia,  the  healing  of  ulcers,  etc.  The  berries  have  been  used  as 
emeto-cathartics,  and  the  leaves  as  stimulant  and  irritant  applications.  Griffith  states 
that  some  species  of  Silphium  afford  a fragrant  bitter  gum  which  is  stimulant  and  aro- 
matic ; and  Porcher  refers  to  S.  laciniatum , s.  gummiferum,  as  having  been  used  for 
asthma  in  horses,  and  to  S.  perfoliatum  as  tonic,  diaphoretic,  etc.  In  France  a species 
of  Silphium  has  been  credited  with  the  cure  of  phthisis,  but  doubtless  the  disease  which 
it  benefited  was  chronic  bronchitis. 

ORIGANUM.— Origanum. 

Origan  vulgaire , Fr.  Cod. ; Dosten,  Wilder  Majoran  ( Meiran ),  G. ; Oregano , Sp. 

Origanum  vulgare,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 204. 

Nat.  Ord. — Labiatae,  Satureieae. 

Origin  and  Description. — Origanum,  or  wild  marjoram , is  a perennial  herb  grow- 
ing in  dry  soil  throughout  a large  portion  of  Asia,  Europe,  and  Northern  Africa.  It  has 
been  introduced  into  the  United  States,  where  in  some  places  it  is  now  quite  common. 
The  stem  is  quadrangular,  often  purplish,  branched  above.  The  leaves  are  opposite, 
petiolate,  roundish  ovate,  obtuse,  entire,  or  slightly  toothed,  hairy  on  the  veins  beneath, 
and  pellucid  punctate.  The  flowers  are  terminal  on  the  branches,  forming  a corymbose 
panicle,  have  a purple,  ovate  bell-shaped  and  five-toothed  calyx,  a purplish  somewhat  two- 
lipped corolla,  and  four  didynamous  exserted  stamens.  The  herb  has  a strong  aromatic, 
marjoram-like  odor  and  a warm  aromatic  and  bitterish  taste. 

Constituents. — The  herb  contains  volatile  oil,  a little  tannin,  bitter  principle,  etc. 


1184 


OS. 


Oleum  origani. — Oil  of  origanum,  E. ; Essence  d’origan,  Ft.  ; Dostenol,  G. — Ray- 
baud  obtained  only  0.024  to  0.03  per  cent,  from  tbe  fresh  plant,  and  Redtel  2 per  cent, 
from  the  recently-dried  herb.  Red  oil  of  thyme  (see  Oleum  Thymi)  is  often  sold  in  its 
place.  It  is  pale-yellow  and  limpid,  becoming  thicker  and  brown-yellow  on  exposure,  has 
a strong  aromatic  odor,  and  a warm,  pungent,  and  slightly  bitter  taste.  Its  specific  grav- 
ity varies  between  0.87  and  0.91.  It  yields  a turbid  solution  with  12  parts  of  alcohol 
specific  gravity  0.85,  fulminates  when  brought  into  contact  with  powdered  iodine,  acquires 
with  sulphuric  acid  a dark  blood-red  color,  and  a deep-brown  one  with  potassium  dichro- 
mate and  sulphuric  acid  (Zeller).  The  oil  consists  of  a liquid  and  a solid  portion,  which 
have  not  been  fully  investigated.  Kane  (1838)  ascribed  to  it  the  composition  (C10H16)5O. 
According  to  Jahns  (1881),  it  is  left-rotating,  and  contains  0.1  per  cent,  of  phenols. 

Allied  Plants. — Origanum  majorana,  Limit,  s.  Majorana  hortensis,  Mcench;  Herba  majoranae. — 
Sweet  marjoram,  E. ; Marjolaine,  Fr.  Cod;  Meiran,  G. ; almoraduz,  liiejorana,  Sp. — It  is  an 
annual  herb,  frequently  cultivated  for  culinary  purposes,  and  is  indigenous  to  Western  Asia  and 
Southeastern  Europe.  The  leaves  are  spatulate  or  oval,  very  obtuse,  entire,  gray-green,  soft- 
hairy,  and  pellucid  punctate.  The  flowers  are  aggregated  in  small  heads  and  have  a small 
whitish  corolla.  The  plant  is  agreeably  and  pungently  aromatic. 

The  volatile  oil  ( Oleum  majorance)  is  thin,  yellowish,  of  the  specific  gravity  0.89,  boils  above 
163°  C.,  is  readily  soluble  in  alcohol,  has  the  aromatic  odor  of  the  herb,  and,  according  to  Beil- 
stein  and  E.  Wiegand  (1882),  contains  a terpene  boiling  at  178°  C.  (352.4°  F.)  and  forming  a liquid 
compound  with  HC1;  the  fraction  boiling  between  200°  and  220°  C.  (392°  and  428°  F.)  has  the 
composition  C15H260,  and  is  not  affected  by  metallic  sodium. 

An  ointment  of  marjoram,  Unguentum  majorance. , is  occasionally  employed  ; it  is  prepared  by 
softening  2 parts  of  the  cut  herb  with  1 part  of  alcohol,  then  digesting  with  10  parts  of  lard  until 
the  alcohol  has  evaporated,  straining  and  cooling. 

Orig.  creticum,  Limit , indigenous  to  Southern  Europe,  has  hairy  ovate  or  nearly  cordate  and 
somewhat  five-nerved,  pungently  aromatic  leaves,  and  whitish  flowers.  In  Europe  the  volatile 
oil  is  distilled  from  it,  and  is  used  like  allied  oils.  The  volatile  oil  of  Orig.  hirtum,  Link, 
which  is  often  sold  in  place  of  it,  consists,  according  to  Jahns  (1879),  of  50  to  60  per  cent,  of 
carvacrol  and  of  several  terpenes,  besides  a volatile  acid  and  a small  quantity  of  a phenol  which 
becomes  violet-colored  with  ferric  chloride. 

Orig.  Dictamnus,  Limit , is  found  in  the  Levant,  has  wolly-tomentose,  obtusely  quadrangular 
branches,  roundish  ovate  toinentose  leaves,  partly  purple-colored  bracts,  and  a dark-purplish 
corolla.  It  is  pungently  aromatic. 

Lippia  origanoides,  Kunth  ( nat . ord.  Yerbenaceae)  is  the  origano  of  Mexico. 

Action  and  Uses.—  Wild  marjoram  has  been  applied  in  fomentations  and  poultices 
for  the  relief  of  local  pains  in  the  same  manner  as  numerous  other  plants  containing  an 
aromatic  volatile  oil.  Sweet  marjoram  is  chiefly  used  as  a condiment  in  cooking,  to 
diminish,  by  its  excitant  qualities,  the  indigestibility  of  pork,  goose,  and  other  fatty  food. 
It  is  sometimes  employed  in  warm  infusion  to  promote  the  eruption  in  exanthematous 
fevers,  allay  colic , dysmenorrhoeal  pains , etc.,  and  the  fresh  bruised  herb  is  applied  as  a 
cataplasm  to  assuage  local  pains.  The  infusion  may  be  made  with  Gm.  30  to  Gm.  500 
(§j  in  Oj)  of  water.  Oil  of  origanum  is  applied  locally  as  an  anaesthetic  to  relieve  the 
pain  of  carious  teeth , neuralgia , etc.  It  forms  an  efficient  ingredient  of  liniments  for 

muscular  rheumatism , contusions , etc.  It  may  be  prescribed  internally  in  doses  of  Gin. 
0.30-0.60  (gtt.  v-x). 

OS. — Bone. 

Os,  Fr. ; Knochen,  G. ; Hueso,  Sp. 

Description. — Bones  form  the  skeleton  of  the  vertebrate  animals,  and  consist  of  a 
dense  organic  tissue  which  is  filled  with  a calcareous  deposit.  They  are  white,  externally 
smooth,  insoluble  in  water,  partly  soluble  in  acids,  leaving  a gelatinous  mass  behind,  and 
when  heated  are  partly  decomposed,  an  empyreumatic  animal  odor  being  given  off  and  a 
porous  charcoal  left.  (See  Carbo  Animalis,  p.  405.)  On  continuing  the  heat  in  contact 
with  air,  the  organic  matter  is  entirely  consumed  and  a white  earthy  residue  remains. 

Oomposition.  — The  organic  portion  of  bones,  which  is  left  undissolved  on  treatment 
with  hydrochloric  acid,  has  been  called  ossein,  and  on  continued  boiling  with  water  is  con- 
verted into  gelatin  (see  page  767).  The  inorganic  portion  varies  in  different  bones  of  the 
same  individual,  in  the  bones  of  different  species,  and  in  different  layers  of  the  same  bone ; 
it  is  smaller  in  the  inner  layers,  amounting  sometimes  to  40  per  cent.,  and  in  the  outer 
layers  it  may  reach  67  per  cent.  The  ash  contains  calcium  phosphate  (usually  about  75 
per  cent,  of  the  bones)  and  carbonate  (about  5 to  10  per  cent.),  magnesium  phosphate 
(1.1  to  2.7  per  cent.),  calcium  fluoride  (less  than  1 per  cent.),  and  traces  of  silica,  iron, 


OX  A LIS. 


1185 


manganese,  and  probably  also  sodium  chloride.  ^Eby  (1874)  considers  the  principal  inor- 
ganic constituents  of  bones  to  be  united  to  a chemical  compound  having  the  formula 
3Ca3  (P04)2  CaC03,  probably  united  with  water  and  mixed  with  calcium  carbonate.  Ivory , 
including  the  fossil  kind,  has  the  composition  6Ca3  (P04)2  Ca  (OH)2  CaC03.4H20.  When 
old  bones  free  from  organic  matter  are  dried  at  200°  C.  (392°  F.),  the  residue  on  being 
moistened  with  water  becomes  warm  and  increases  to  its  original  weight  again.  Above 
250°  C.  (482°  F.)  more  water  and  carbon  dioxide  are  given  off. 

When  ground  bones  are  treated  with  about  50  per  cent,  of  their  weight  of  sulphuric 
acid  a mixture  is  obtained  which  is  largely  used  as  a manure  under  the  name  of  superphos- 
phate of  lime,  containing,  besides  the  organic  matter  of  the  bones,  about  50  per  cent,  of 
calcium  sulphate,  22  or  23  per  cent,  of  acid  calcium  phosphate,  and  small  quantities  of 
magnesium  compounds.  On  exposing  such  a mixture  in  thin  layers  to  a current  of  crude 
illuminating  gas  the  latter  is  deprived  of  ammonia,  which  combines  with  the  superphos- 
phate to  the  extent  of  about  10  per  cent.,  forming  ammonium  phosphate  and  sulphate. 
The  product  of  this  dry  ammonia  process  for  gas  purification  is  considered  to  be  more 
valuable  as  a fertilizer  than  the  superphosphate  of  lime. 

Pharmceutical  Uses. — Os  ustum,  Br.  Bone-ash  is  the  inorganic  residue  left  on 
burning  bones  to  whiteness,  and  consists  principally  of  calcium  phosphate,  with  about 
10  per  cent,  of  calcium  carbonate  and  a little  calcium  fluoride  and  magnesium  phosphate. 
It  is  used  in  the  manufacture  of  glacial  phosphoric  acid  and  in  preparing  Calc,  phosphas 
and  Sod.  phosphas,  U.  S.,  Br. 

OXALIS.— ' Wood-Sorrel. 

Alleluia,  Burette,  Pain  de  coucou,  Fr. ; Sauerklee , Hasenklee , Gr. ; Acederitta,  Socoyol,  Sp. 

Nat.  Ord. — Greraniaceae,  Oxalideae. 

Description. — The  following  species  indigenous  to  North  America  and  Europe  have 
been  used : 

O.  Acetosella,  Linne.  The  thin,  thread-like  rhizome,  near  the  ascending  apex,  is 
furnished  with  crowded  reddish  fleshy  scales  and  fine  brown  radicles.  The  leaves  are 
radical  petiolate,  and  have  three  triangular-obcordate  entire  leaflets  12  Mm.  (J  inch)  long. 
The  scapes  are  longer  than  the  petioles,  and  bear  a single  white,  red-veined  flower  with 
ten  alternately  short  stamens.  The  capsule  is  five-angled  and  five-celled,  each  cell  con- 
taining two  seeds. 

O.  corniculata,  Linne,  is  an  annual  herb,  producing  subterranean  shoots  which  sur- 
vive the  winter.  The  leaves  are  petiolate,  with  three  obcordate  leaflets,  and  the  flowers 
yellow,  forming  a small  umbel  on  peduncles  longer  than  the  petioles.  The  variety  stricta 
is  common  in  North  America. 

Allied  Plants. — Several  species,  mostly  acaulescent  and  bulbous,  and  bearing  white,  purple,  or 
yellow  flowers,  are  seen  in  cultivation.  All  are  inodorous  or  nearly  so,  and  have  a pleasant  acid- 
ulous taste. 

Rumex  Acetosa,  Linn6  ( not . ord.  Polygonacea)  ; Sorrel,  E. ; Oseille  commune,  Fr.  Cod. ; 
Sauerampfer,  G. ; Acedera,  Sp. — The  stems  of  the  sorrel  dock  is  about  50  cm.  (20  inches)  high; 
the  leaves  are  broadly  lanceolate,  with  arrow-shaped  or  halberdform  basal  lobes ; the  acidulous 
taste  is  due  to  potassium  oxalate.  Th afield  or  sheep  sorrel  (R.  Acetosella,  Linn6 ) resembles  the 
preceding,  but  is  only  about  one-fourth  its  size.  It  is  a common  weed,  while  the  former  is  spar- 
ingly naturalized  in  North  America. 

Constituents. — Besides  the  principles  common  to  most  herbs,  these  plants  contain 
acid  potassium  oxalate. 

Action  and  Uses. — Wood-sorrel  and  yellow  wood-sorrel  depend  for  their  medicinal 
virtues  upon  the  potassium  oxalate  they  contain.  They  have  been  long  considered  anti- 
scorbutic, diuretic,  and  sedative  in  febrile  conditions.  In  the  last  case  an  infusion  of 
the  plant  forms  an  agreeable  acidulous  drink.  Sorrel  may  be  eaten  as  a salad  mixed  with 
lettuce,  water-cress,  etc.  In  scurvy , purpura . and  some  cases  of  vernal  intermittent  fever  it 
is  reported  to  have  been  curative.  In  Europe  it  is  commonly  eaten  as  a dressing  for  insipid 
meats,  such  as  veal  and  sweetbread,  and  it  is  stated  that  its  habitual  use  in  this  way  has 
led  to  the  formation  of  urinary  calculi  of  oxalate  of  lime.  It  is  related  that  a boy  who 
had  eaten  a quantity  of  raw  sorrel-leaves,  quenched  his  thirst  with  water  which  was 
soapy;  he  was  seized  with  giddiness  and  died  unconscious.  This  result  was  attributed  to 
the  combination  of  the  oxalic  acid  of  the  sorrel  with  the  alkali  of  the  soap  {Med.  Press, 
June  23,  1886).  Externally,  the  bruised  leaves  are  sometimes  applied  to  cleanse  and 
stimulate  foul  ulcers.  Eltinge  reports  a case  of  epithelioma  of  the  lip  cured  by  the  appli- 


1186 


OX  YG ESI  I 'M. 


cation  of  the  inspissated  juice  of  Oxalis  acetosella.  It  occasioned  intense  pain,  lasting 
for  half  an  hour  ( Philad . Med.  Times , xii.  159).  Such  instances  have  led  to  the  sugges- 
tion of  its  use  as  a remedy  for  cancer. 

OXYGENIUM.— Oxygen. 

Oxygene , Fr.  ; Oxygen , Sauerstoff , G. 

Symbol  0.  Atomicity  bivalent.  Atomic  weight  15.96. 

Oxygen  was  discovered  by  Scheele  (1772)  and  Priestley  (1774).  It  constitutes  about 
one-fifth  of  the  volume  of  atmospheric  air,  the  remainder  being  nitrogen,  with  a small 
proportion  of  carbon  dioxide.  Eight-ninths  of  the  weight  of  water  and  one-half  the 
weight  of  many  minerals  consist  of  oxygen,  and  it  is  estimated  that  at  least  one-third 
the  weight  of  the  solid  crust  of  the  earth  is  made  up  of  this  element,  which  is  the  most 
abundant  of  all. 

Preparation. — Oxygen  may  be  obtained  by  exposing  manganese  dioxide,  mercuric 
oxide,  or  some  other  metallic  oxide  to  a strong  heat,  but  it  is  most  conveniently  prepared 
by  heating  a mixture  of  4 or  5 parts  of  potassium  chlorate  with  1 part  of  manganese 
dioxide.  At  a low  red  heat  the  chlorate  is  completely  decomposed  into  oxygen  and 
potassium  chloride,  which  remains  mixed  with  the  manganese ; the  latter,  not  being 
altered,  may  be  recovered  by  dissolving  the  potassium  chloride  in  water ; KC103  yields 
KOI  + 03.  Care  should  be  taken  that  black  antimony  sulphide  be  not  used  in  place  of 
manganese  dioxide,  and  that  the  mixture  be  free  from  organic  compounds,  since  a violent 
explosion  would  take  place  on  the  application  of  heat. 

Properties. — Oxygen  is  a colorless  and  inodorous  gas  having  the  density  1.1056  as 
compared  with  air ; 1 liter  of  it  at  0°  C.  (32°  F.)  and  a barometric  pressure  of  0.76  meter 
weighs  1.43  Gm.  L.  Cailletet  and  R.  Pictet  (December,  1877)  succeeded  in  reducing  it 
to  the  liquid  state,  when  it  has  the  density  1.0.  It  is  slightly  soluble  in  water  and  alco- 
hol, and  combines  with  all  other  elements,  perhaps  with  the  sole  exception  of  fluorine. 
These  compounds  are  called  oxides , and  the  act  of  combination  oxidation , and  when 
attended  with  heat  and  light  it  is  termed  combustion. 

By  the  action  of  electricity  upon  oxygen,  or  by  the  slow  oxidation  of  phosphorus  in 
moist  air,  and  under  various  other  circumstances,  oxygen  is  converted  into  ozone , which 
is  a gas  as  usually  obtained  colorless,  but,  according  to  Hautefeuille  and  Chappuis  (1880), 
of  a deep-blue  color  if  sufficiently  concentrated,  and  under  a pressure  of  125  atmospheres 
forms  indigo-blue  drops,  which  after  the  removal  of  pressure  evaporate  slowly.  It  has 
a peculiar  odor,  somewhat  resembling  that  of  chlorine,  is  a powerful  oxidizing  agent, 
bleaches  indigo  solution,  and  liberates  iodine  from  potassium  iodide ; paper  dipped  in  thin 
starch-paste  containing  potassium  iodide  is  turned  blue  by  ozonized  air,  and  is  a delicate 
test  for  the  presence  of  ozone.  This  body  has  not  been  obtained  free  from  oxygen ; it  is 
regarded  simply  as  a modification  of  oxygen,  its  formula  being  020,  indicating  that  3 
vols.  have  been  condensed  into  2 ; its  spec,  gravity  is  one-half  greater  than  that  of  oxy- 
gen. It  is  nearly  insoluble  in  water. 

Action  and  Uses. — Assuming  that  oxygen  could  be  introduced  through  the  lungs 
as  readily  as  food  is  carried  into  the  system  through  the  stomach,  it  was  inferred  that 
by  its  means  all  the  organic  operations  of  the  economy  could  be  aroused  to  an  increased 
activity.  Experimenters  graphically  described  the  enlivening  influence  of  this  increased 
supply  of  “ vital  air  ” upon  the  sensations  and  the  organic  functions,  and  were  apt  at 
explaining  how  it  not  only  must,  but  actually  did,  cure  some  of  the  gravest  of  diseases. 
But  it  was  pointed  out  by  Dr.  A.  H.  Smith,  and  then  by  Dr.  B.  W.  Richardson,  that  no 
more  than  a certain  proportion  of  oxygen,  such  as  exists  in  the  atmosphere,  can  be 
absorbed  by  the  lungs.  Their  results  were  subsequently  (1875)  confirmed  by  Buchheim, 
who  concluded  that  “ henceforth  we  must  abandon  the  notion  that  the  course  of  diseases 
can  be  modified  by  increasing  the  amount  of  oxygen  in  the  blood.”  It  should  be  remem- 
bered that  Richardson  and  others  have  shown  ( Lancet , Nov.  1878,  p.  749)  that  oxygen 
inhaled  in  large  quantities  is  so  far  from  being  a stimulant  that  it  relaxes  and  debilitates 
the  system,  and,  in  fact,  induces  narcotism.  The  vivifying  action  of  oxygen  has  also 
been  questioned  by  Brown-Sequard  ( Annuaire  de  Therap .,  1889,  p.  36),  who  has  shown 
that  the  phenomena  of  asphyxia  are  by  no  means  exclusively  due  to  the  privation  of 
oxygen,  that  carbonic  acid  can  be  largely  introduced  into  the  blood  without  serious  results, 
and  that  the  addition  of  oxygen  to  this  gas  renders  it  more  poisonous.  Hayem  holds  that 
the  inhalation  of  from  50  to  100  quarts  a day  of  oxygen,  more  or  less  diluted  with  atmo- 
spheric air,  stimulates  the  appetite,  raises  the  temperature  slightly,  quickens  the  pulse, 


OXYMEL. 


1187 


and  increases  the  weight,  that  it  temporarily  augments  “ the  haematoblasts  and  the  red 
corpuscles.'’  and  the  proportion  of  haemoglobin  in  the  latter,  but  that  it  restores  neither 
their  normal  size  nor  form  (Archives  gen. , June.  1881,  p.  745).  It  may  be  added  that 
Dr.  J.  H.  Kellogg  ( Therap . Gaz.,  xi.  589),  on  injecting  oxygen  into  the  rectum  of  a 
cniinea-pig,  found  that  the  dark  venous  blood  of  the  intestines  almost  immediately 
assumed  a bright-red  hue.  Similar  observations  were  also  made  by  Dr.  H.  Wyman. 

A critical  examination  of  the  reports  of  pulmonary  consumption  treated  by  oxygen 
proves  that  no  ground  exists  for  the  belief  that  the  disease  is  either  curable  or  much 
benefited  by  this  gas,  although  it  has  been  claimed  (Ransome)  that  the  treatment  arrested 
the  fever  and  night-sweats,  reduced  the  expectoration,  and  increased  the  flesh  and  appe- 
tite ; the  same  may  be  said  of  diabetes , in  which  it  transiently  diminishes  the  diuresis  and 
the  proportion  of  sugar ; and  of  albuminuria , in  which  it  similarly  reduces  the  albumen. 
In  asthma,  chronic  bronchitis,  and  other  affections  of  the  respiratory  organs,  including 
pneumonia , attended  with  symptoms  of  asphyxia  the  inhalation  of  oxygen  has  certainly 
appeared  to  prolong,  and  even  to  save,  life.  According  to  Dr.  Blodgett  (. Boston  Med. 
and  Surg.  Journ .,  Nov.,  1890,  pp.  481,  493)  the  inhalation  must  be  copious  and  pro- 
longed. This  has  been  demonstrated  in  asphyxia  from  emphysema  with  bronchitis,  in 
laryngitis  of  various  forms,  in  compression  of  the  lungs  by  the  gravid  uterus,  in  opiate 
narcotism , in  poisoning  by  charcoal  fumes  or  by  illuminating  or  privy  gas,  by  chloroform, 
and  in  similar  conditions.  A case  is  recorded  in  which  it  seems  to  have  saved  the  life  of 
a child  poisoned  by  a very  large  dose  of  carbolic  acid  (Bull,  de  Therap.,  cv.  417).  Its 
most  striking  benefits  are  observed  when  the  gas  is  inhaled  by  dyspeptic  chlorotic  patients. 
It  revives  the  appetite,  quickens  the  digestion,  and  arrests  vomiting  if  present,  and  con- 
sequently increases  the  excretion  of  urea.  But  this  improvement  is  not  permanent  unless 
iron  is  used  as  supplementary  to  the  oxygen  (Bull,  de  Ther.,  xcviii.  427).  The  same 
remark  applies  to  hysterical  and  hystero-epileptic  cases.  In  puerperal  eclampsia  oxygen 
seems  to  have  been  useless,  but  in  hydrophobia  to  have  mitigated  the  severity  of  the 
symptoms  (Kastyleff.  Med.  News , xlviii.  38).  Most  of  the  above  conclusions  have  been 
confirmed  by  Dr.  W.  G.  Thompson  (Med.  Record,  xxxvi.  1,  26)  ; and  Creswell  (Practi- 
tioner, xli.  241,  321),  who  used  oxygen  by  inhalation  and  oxygen-water  in  the  treatment 
of  scarlatina  and  its  renal  complications,  believed  that  “ hopeless  cases  were  revived  by 
the  gas  and  existence  was  by  it  occasionally  prolonged and  he  thought  that  it  served  a 
useful  purpose  in  a case  of  uraemic  coma  and  in  several  cases  of  pulmonary  complications. 
Dr.  Kellogg  has  stated  that  in  the  case  of  a person  who  was  passing  large  quantities  of 
lithic  acid  the  excess  was  corrected  by  oxygen  enemata.  Drs.  DaCosta  and  Hershey  have 
reported  that  in  the  treatment  of  leukaemia  and  grave  anaemias  oxygen  inhalations  may 
“ prolong  life  and  produce  results  not  otherwise  to  be  obtained  ” (Amer.  Jour.  Med.  Sci ., 
xcviii.  482).  In  traumatic  tetanus  the  inhalation  of  oxygen  is  said  to  have  caused  pro- 
fuse diaphoresis  and  muscular  relaxation  (Richardson).  In  some  cases  of  vomiting  during 
pregnancy  this  treatment  has  arrested  the  symptom  when  all  other  measures  had  failed. 
(For  a detailed  account  of  oxygen  as  a medicine  see  Stille,  Therapeutics,  etc.,  4th  ed., 
i.  703.)  If  possible,  the  oxygen  should  be  inhaled  from  a reservoir  or  bag  containing  it 
through  a tube  with  a suitable  stopcock  and  valves,  in  the  same  manner  as  nitrous-oxide 
gas.  or  from  a metallic  bottle  of  compressed  oxygen.  Water  charged  with  oxygen  in 
the  same  manner  as  it  commonly  is  with  carbonic-acid  gas  is  more  convenient,  and  prob- 
ably as  efficient  in  many  cases,  as  the  inhaled  oxygen ; and  the  peroxide  of  hydrogen 
similarly  administered  or  applied  has  been  credited  with  remarkable  vivifying  effects. 

OXYMEL,  Bv. — Oxymel. 

Oxymel simplex,  Mel acetatnm.- — Oxymel (Oxymellite)  simple, Acetomel,  Fr.;  Sauerhonig , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Clarified  Honey  40  ounces ; Acetic  Acid  and  Distilled 

ater,  each  5 fluidounces.  Liquefy  the  honey  by  heat,  and  mix  with  it  the  acetic  acid 
and  water. — Br. 

The  French  Codex  orders  1 part  of  white  wine  vinegar  to  be  mixed  with  4 parts  of 
virgin  honey,  and  the  mixture  to  be  concentrated  and  clarified  with  paper  pulp.  The 
German  Pharmacopoeia  of  1872  directed  the  mixing  of  40  parts  of  clarified  honey  with 
1 part  of  acetic  acid  spec.  grav.  1.040;  this  is  certainly  the  simplest  process. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  is  an  official  form  of  the  popular  mixture  of  honey  and 
vinegar,  which  is  generally  used  as  a gargle  in  sore  throat.  It  may  be  prescribed  as  an 
excipient  for  various  expectorant  medicines,  and  particularly  for  squill  and  ipecacuanha 
in  the  form  of  syrup. 


1188 


OXYMEL  SCILLjE.—PANCREA TINUM. 


OXYMEL  SCILL^],  JBr.,  F.  Cod.,  P.  G. — Oxymel  of  Squill. 

Oxymel  scilliticum. — Oxymel  scillitique , Fr. ; Meerzwiebelhonig , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Vinegar  of  Squill  1 pint ; Clarified  Honey  2 pounds.  Mix 
and  evaporate  by  a water-bath  until  the  product  when  cold  shall  have  the  specific  gravity 
1.32. — Br.  The  P.  G.  directs  that  1 part  of  vinegar  of  squill  and  2 parts  of  honey  shall 
be  mixed  and  evaporated  to  2 parts.  Vinegar  of  squill  1 part,  honey  ,4  parts ; clarify 
with  paper  pulp  and  evaporate  to  the  density  of  1.26. — F.  Cod. 

Action  and  Uses. — Oxymel  of  squill  has  the  medicinal  virtues  of  syrup  of  squill, 
neither  more  nor  less.  Honey  is  superior  to  syrup  as  a local  application  to  the  throat, 
but  there  is  no  known  difference  between  the  two  in  their  action  upon  the  air-passages. 
Like  the  syrup  of  squill,  the  oxymel  may  be  prescribed  in  catarrhal  affections  of  the  res- 
piratory mucous  membrane,  and  in  young  children  as  an  emetic  in  spasmodic  croup.  It 
has  been  employed,  and  in  large  doses  frequently  repeated,  in  the  treatment  of  whooping 
cough  (Netter ; Monti).  The  dose,  as  an  expectorant,  is  for  adults  Gm.  4 (f^j)  ; for 
infants,  from  Gm.  0.30-1.30  (gtt.  v-xx).  As  an  emetic  for  children  Gm.  4 (f^j)  may  be 
given  at  short  intervals. 

P.ZEONIA. — Peony. 

Pivoine  officinale,  Fr. ; Gichtrose,  Pjingstrose,  G. ; Peonia,  Sp. 

Pseonia  officinalis,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Ranunculacese,  Paeonieae. 

Description. — Peony  is  a perennial  herb  from  Southern  Europe,  which  is  frequently 
cultivated  for  ornament.  It  has  an  oblique  many-headed  root-stock  15—23  Cm.  (6  or  9 
inches)  in  length,  with  numerous  at  first  fibrous  roots,  which  afterward  enlarge  and 
become  fusiform,  dark-brown,  internally  white  and  mealy,  resembling  elongated  tubers, 
about  5-8  Cm.  (2  or  3 inches)  long,  and  12  Mm.  (|  inch)  thick.  In  commerce  these  are 
generally  peeled,  are  whitish  or  purplish,  and  have  near  the  circumference  narrow  yellow 
wood-wedges.  The  branched  stem  is  about  60  Cm.  (2  feet)  high,  smooth,  with  large, 
twice  or  thrice  pinnately  dissected  and  cleft  green  smooth  leaves,  and  large  terminal 
flowers,  having  five  sepals,  five  to  eight  petals,  numerous  stamens,  and  two  to  five  ovaries. 
The  petals  are  obovate,  entire  or  crenate,  38  Mm.  (1J  inches)  long,  dark-red,  purple  or 
rose-red,  after  drying  inodorous,  and  have  a sweetish  astringent  taste.  The  seeds  are 
nearly  globular,  3-4  Mm.  (i  to  i inch),  in  diameter,  black,  glossy,  and  smooth,  inodor- 
ous, and  contain  a yellowish  oily  albumen  and  a small  embryo.  The  tuberous  roots, 
petals,  and  seeds  have  been  used. 

Constituents. — Wiggers  obtained  from  the  fresh  root  a distillate  having  the  odor 
of  bitter  almonds  and  acquiring  a blood-red  color  by  ferric  chloride ; separated  by  means 
of  ether,  the  volatile  oil  had  a pale-yellow  color.  The  analysis  of  the  fresh  root  by 
Morin  proved  the  presence  of  starch,  sugar,  fat,  malates,  oxalates,  and  phosphates,  a little 
tannin,  etc.  The  root  of  Paeonia  peregrina,  Miller,  yielded  to  Dragendorff  and  Mandelin 
(1879)  4.1  to  5.4  per  cent,  of  ash,  some  sugar,  starch,  gummy  matter,  and  small  quanti- 
ties of  tannin,  resin,  fat,  etc.,  while  the  seeds  contain  23.6  per  cent,  of  fixed  oil,  various 
coloring  matters,  etc.,  and  a crystalline  body  which  in  the  ripe  seeds  appears  to  be  changed 
to  an  indifferent  and  an  acid  resin.  The  Japanese  Botan-root,  Paeonia  Moutan,  Simson, 
according  to  Jagi  (1878),  contains  a crystalline  substance  closely  related  to  caprinic  acid ; 
it  melts  at  45°  C.  (113°  F.),  sublimes  at  a higher  temperature,  and  is  easily  soluble  in 
ether  and  alcohol. 

Action  and  Uses. — That  the  plant  is  not  inert  is  abundantly  proved ; its  very  odor 
has  caused  syncope ; in  one  case  an  infusion  of  it  brought  on  an  attack  of  convulsions, 
and  in  another  it  produced  headache,  ringing  in  the  ears,  confusion  of  sight,  violent  colic, 
and  vomiting.  And  although  some  have  reported  favorably  of  it  in  epilepsy,  chorea,  and 
whooping  cough,  the  evidence  in  favor  of  its  efficacy  is  very  slender  indeed.  The  pow- 
dered root  may  be  prescribed  in  doses  of  Gm.  1-4  (gr.  xv-lx),  or  an  infusion  may  be 
made  with  Gm.  16-32  in  Gm.  500  (,^ss-^j  in  water  Oj). 

PANCREATINUM,  U.  S.— Pancreatin. 

A mixture  of  the  enzymes  naturally  existing  in  the  pancreas  of  warm-blooded  animals, 
usually  obtained  from  the  fresh  pancreas  of  the  hog  (Sus  scrofa,  Linne  ; class,  Mammalia; 
order,  Pachydermata). — U.  S, 


PANCREA  TINUM. 


1189 


Origin. — Tile  pancreas  is  a gland  which  is  deeply  seated  in  the  abdomen  and  secretes 
the  pancreatic  juice , containing  the  proteid  pancreatin,  to  which  it  owes  the  property  of 
peptonizing  albuminoids,  of  emulsifying  and  decomposing  fats  into  glycerin  and  acid,  and 
of  converting  starch  into  sugar.  The  pancreatic  juice  is  a colorless,  clear,  somewhat  vis- 
cid liquid,  of  an  alkaline  reaction,  without  odor  and  of  an  insipid  somewhat  saline  taste ; 
it  contains,  besides  the  ferment,  nearly  1 per  cent,  of  mineral  salts,  a trace  of  fat  and  of 
organic  matters  soluble  in  water. 

Preparation. — Pancreatin  may  be  obtained  as  follows : Fresh  pancreas  of  the  hog, 
freed  as  much  as  possible  from  fat  and  adhering  membranes,  is  reduced  to  a fine  paste  by 
means  of  a suitable  mincing-machine  ; it  is  next  mixed  with  half  its  weight  of  cold  water, 
and  kneaded  thoroughly  and  frequently  during  one  hour,  after  which  the  mass  is  trans- 
ferred to  a strainer  and  forcibly  expressed ; the  liquid  is  filtered  as  quickly  as  possible 
through  flannel,  and  to  the  filtrate  is  added  an  equal  volume  of  alcohol.  The  precipitate 
is  collected,  drained,  and  freed  by  pressure  from  as  much  of  the  adherent  liquid  as  pos- 
sible ; it  is  then  spread  on  shallow  trays,  dried  by  exposure  to  warm  air  at  a temperature 
not  exceeding  40°  C.  (104°  F.),  and  reduced  to  powder.  When  large  quantities  of  pan- 
creas are  operated  upon,  it  is  advisable  to  use  water  saturated  with  chloroform,  which  will 
retard  decomposition  for  a long  time. — Nat'l  Form. 

In  some  instances  the  finely-mixed  pancreas  is  macerated  with  highly  dilute  hydro- 
chloric acid,  the  fat  being  removed  from  the  powdered  mass  by  means  of  purified  benzin. 
The  temperature  for  drying  pancreatin  should  never  exceed  43.3°  C.  (110°  F.). 

Composition. — Like  other  proteids,  pancreatin  consists  of  C,  H,  N,  O,  and  a little 
S.  (see  V itellus),  and  belongs  to  the  soluble  ferments,  designated  by  Kueline  as 
enzymes.  There  are  supposed  to  be  no  less  than  four  of  these  unorganized  ferments 
present  in  the  pancreatic  juice — namely,  trypsin , for  the  digestion  of  albuminoids  ; amyl- 
opsin , for  carbohydrates ; steapsin , for  fats  ; and  a rennet  ferment  which  coagulates  milk. 
Trypsin  has  been  isolated  in  a comparatively  pure  state ; it  differs  from  pepsin  in  several 
important  particulars,  acting  best  in  an  alkaline  medium,  and,  although  active  in  a neutral 
or  even  faintly  acid  solution,  it  is  completely  destroyed  in  acid  liquids  even  as  weak  as 
gastric  juice ; it  converts  albumoses  very  rapidly  into  hemi- and  anti-peptones,  whereas 
the  action  of  pepsin  in  this  respect  is  very  slow.  Unlike  pepsin,  trypsin  will  digest 
mucin,  but  not  the  fibres  of  ordinary  connective  tissue  until  these  have  first  been  con- 
verted into  gelatin.  Amylopsin  very  closely  resembles  diastase  and  ptyalin  both  in  action 
and  properties,  but  its  action  in  converting  starch  into  maltose  and  dextro-glucose  is  much 
more  energetic  than  that  of  ptyalin.  Steapsin  or  fat-digesting  ferment  appears  to  exert 
a special  action  in  the  emulsification  of  fats,  and  more  particularly  in  the  presence  of  the 
alkali  salts  of  the  biliary  acids,  thus  preparing  them  for  better  absorption ; it  is  said  also 
to  possess  the  power  of  decomposing  small  amounts  of  neutral  fat  into  glycerin  and  fatty 
acids.  The  milk-curdling  ferment  is  probably  indentical  with  that  found  in  the  stomach. 

Properties  and  Tests. — Pancreatin  usually  appears  in  form  of  a yellowish,  yellow- 
ish-white, or  grayish-white  powder,  or  in  the  form  of  transparent,  brittle,  yellowish  scales, 
which  are  odorless  or  have  a faint,  peculiar,  not  unpleasant  odor,  and  a somewhat  meat- 
like taste.  It  is  slowly  and  almost  completely  soluble  in  water,  but  insoluble  in  alcohol. 

Pancreatin  digests  albuminoids,  and  converts  starch  into  sugar,  in  presence  of  alkalies 
prolonged  contact  with  acids  renders  it  inert.  It  is  hygroscopic,  and  when  exposed  to  the 
air  for  some  time  loses  its  value ; hence  it  should  be  preserved  in  well-stoppered  bottles. 
Dilution  with  sugar  of  milk  seems  to  retard  deterioration,  and  saccharated  pancreatin  has 
been  found  to  retain  its  peptonizing  value  far  better  than  the  pure  article.  The  aqueous 
solution  of  pancreatin  is  a clear,  pale-yellowish  liquid,  which  is  precipitated  by  heat,  by 
alcohol,  and  by  hydrochloric  acid,  but  not  by  a saturated  solution  of  sodium  chloride. 

“ If  there  be  added  to  100  Cc.  of  tepid  water  contained  in  a flask,  0.28  Gm.  of  pan- 
creatin and  1.5  Gm.  of  sodium  bicarbonate,  and  afterward  400  Cc.  of  fresh  cow’s  milk 
previously  heated  to  38°  C.  (100.4°  F.),  and  if  this  mixture  be  maintained  at  the  same 
temperature  for  thirty  minutes,  the  milk  should  be  so  completely  peptonized  that  if  a 
small  portion  of  it  be  transferred  to  a test-tube  and  mixed  with  some  nitric  acid,  no 
coagulation  should  occur.  Peptonized  milk,  prepared  in  the  manner  just  described,  or 
even  when  the  process  is  allowed  to  go  on  to  the  development  of  a very  distinct  bitter 
flavor,  should  not  have  an  odor  of  rancidity.” — U.  S. 

Although  the  proteolytic  value  of  commercial  pancreatin  is  probably  the  most  import- 
ant (as  shown  by  the  pharinacopoeial  test),  yet  its  action  on  carbohydrates  should  likewise 
be  observed : we  have  examined  some  samples  that  peptonized  milk  very  readily,  and  yet 
had  little  or  no  effect  on  starch  paste,  and  vice  versa.  For  testing  pancreatin  a 5 per  cent. 


1190 


PA  NCR  E A TIN  UAL 


starch  mucilage  is  better  suited  than  a stronger  preparation,  and  the  length  of  time 
required  for  the  complete  conversion  of  starch  into  sugar  should  be  noted ; usually  good 
pancreatin  is  supposed  to  convert  six  or  eight  times  its  weight  of  starch  in  a few  minutes, 
the  test  being  conducted  at  a temperature  of  43.3°— 46.1°  C.  (110°— 115°  F.).  The  fact 
that  pancreatin  liquefies  starch  paste  is  not  sufficient,  as  this  may  be  due  to  the  simple 
change  of  the  starch  into  dextrin  : the  liquid  should  be  tested  every  few  minutes  by 
adding  a drop  or  two  to  some  very  dilute  iodine-water ; as  soon  as  the  purplish  or  pinkish 
color  fails  to  appear,  the  conversion  into  sugar  is  complete.  The  less  time  required  for 
this  change  the  better  is  the  quality  of  the  pancreatin. 

Action  and  Uses. — Pancreatic  juice  has  an  alkaline  reaction,  converts  starch  into 
sugar,  and  decomposes  fat  into  fatty  acids  and  glycerin.  It  also  forms  with  albumen  an 
alkaline  solution.  The  latter  action,  which  is  ascribed  to  pancreatin,  and  forms  the 
ground  of  its  utility  in  disease,  is  said  not  to  be  interfered  with  by  the  presence  of  the 
acid  secretions  of  the  stomach.  During  the  first  years  of  life,  when  the  food  consists 
chiefly  of  milk  and  farinacea,  a state  of  dyspepsia  frequently  arises  which  often  leads  to 
marasmus,  and  which  is  not  traceable  to  any  organic  lesions  of  the  stomach  or  auxiliary 
viscera.  In  this  it  is  claimed  that  pancreatic  emulsion  speedily  restores  the  digestive 
function  to  its  normal  condition,  and,  through  improved  nutrition,  renews  the  health. 
“ Defresne  has  recommended  pancreatin  in  phthisical  cases  where  the  patient  is  unable 
to  digest  or  assimilate  cod-liver  oil ; in  cases  of  jaundice  in  which  fat  is  badly  digested ; 
in  cases  of  dyspepsia  in  which  the  patient  experiences  abdominal  pains,  vomiting,  diar- 
rhoea, and  flatulence  several  hours  after  meals ; and,  speaking  generally,  in  those  cases 
of  disturbances  of  digestion  in  which  fats  and  starches  are  badly  assimilated  and  where 
pepsin  is  found  to  be  useless  ” ( Practitioner , xx.  454).  Hence  it  is  reported  to  be 
serviceable  in  such  diseases  as  are  more  or  less  maintained  by  the  imperfect  digestion  of 
albuminous  food,  including  rachitis , scrofula , diabetes , and  fatty  diarrhoea , anaemia,  chlo- 
rosis, leukaemia , pernicious  anaemia , and  the  early  stage  of  tuberculosis.  It  has  also  been 
profitably  employed  during  convalescence  from  acute  wasting  diseases  (Loebisch).  In  all 
of  these  cases  it  may  be  administered  by  the  mouth.  It  was,  however,  originally  intro- 
duced into  medicine  by  Leube  in  1874  as  an  efficient  means  of  nourishing  by  the  rectum 
when  the  stomach  could  not  retain  or  digest  food,  as  in  gastric  atony  produced  by  pro- 
tracted illness ; gastric  irritability  caused  by  disease  of  the  stomach  itself  or  by  disorders 
of  its  nervous  system  leading  to  the  rejection  of  food ; cases  also  of  stricture  of  the 
oesophagus  or  compression  of  it  by  tumors ; and  finally,  cases  of  gastric  haemorrhage  in 
which  the  introduction  of  food  into  the  stomach  might  be  attended  with  danger.  Other 
forms  of  nutritive  enemata  fail  of  their  purpose,  both  because  they  are,  or  soon  become, 
mechanically  irritating,  and  because  they  are  not  of  such  a nature  as  to  be  absorbed,  or 
to  subserve  the  purposes  of  nutrition  even  were  their  absorption  practicable.  The  first 
of  these  objections  does  not  apply  to  pancreatic  emulsions,  probably  because  their  reac- 
tion, like  that  of  the  rectum,  is  alkaline. 

Leube’s  directions  for  preparing  the  enemata  are  as  follows : Take  a piece  of  lean  beef 
and  scrape  or  grate  it  until  it  is  reduced  to  a fine  pulp.  For  one  injection  from  Gm. 
150—300  (§v— x)  of  it  should  be  mixed  with  an  equal  quantity  of  finely-hashed  pancreas 
and  thoroughly  pounded  in  a mortar  or  crushed  in  a bowl  with  a spoon,  with  the  gradual 
addition  of  about  Gm.  150  (^v)  of  lukewarm  water  until  the  mixture  is  of  the  consist- 
ence of  pap.  If  it  is  desired  to  administer  fat,  it  may  be  added  in  the  proportion  of 
about  one-sixth  of  the  meat.  To  inject  this  mixture  a syringe  with  a much  larger 
nozzle  than  usual  is  required.  If  the  enema  is  judiciously  introduced,  the  whole  of 
it  will  be  retained,  and,  according  to  Leube,  will  penetrate  even  to  the  transverse 
colon.  He  refers  to  cases  in  which,  after  from  twelve  to  thirty-six  hours,  the  stool  was 
feculent,  without  any  trace  of  the  emulsion.  He  advises  that,  as  the  pancreas  readily 
becomes  stale  in  warm  weather,  it  should  be  preserved  by  mixing  its  pulp  thoroughly 
with  glycerin. 

A number  of  cases  have  been  published  in  which  pancreatic  enemata  were  either  the 
means  of  saving  life  permanently,  or  in  which,  owing  to  the  incurable  nature  of  the  dis- 
ease, they  prolonged  life  far  beyond  the  term  when  it  must  otherwise  have  terminated. 
To  the  latter  category  necessarily  belong  all  cases  of  organic  stricture  of  the  digestive 
canal ; to  the  former,  cases  of  simple  ulcer  of  the  stomach  and  nervous  vomiting. 

The  preparation  of  the  pancreas  for  administration  by  the  mouth  differs  from  that  just 
described.  According  to  Engesser,  the  pancreas  of  the  hog,  sheep,  or  ox  should  be  used, 
that  of  the  hog  being  preferable.  After  being  finely  minced  it  is  forced  through  a hair 
sieve.  The  semi-liquid  product  may  then  be  directly  mixed  with  the  food,  or  may,  after 


PAPAVERIS  CAPSULE. 


1191 


the  addition  of  a little  salt,  be  preserved  in  a cool  place  in  a properly-covered  jar.  For 
immediate  use  the  watery  infusion  of  pancreas  may  be  employed,  although  it  is  less  effi- 
cient than  the  gland  substance.  It  is  also  less  repulsive  in  appearance  than  the  emulsion, 
and  its  taste  is  not  unlike  the  cold  prepared  extract  of  beef.  Pancreatic  pulp  may  be 
<;iven  in  bolus,  in  wafers,  or  mixed  with  the  food,  and  in  the  dose  of  about  a dessertspoon- 
ful at  each  meal.  Care  must  be  taken  not  to  mix  it  with  hot  food  (113°  F.  =45°  C.). 
Various  expedients  have  been  suggested  for  concealing  the  unpleasant  taste  and  smell  of 
the  emulsion,  and  for  securing  its  thorough  and  equable  mixture  with  the  food,  but  they 
must  generally  be  left  to  the  ingenuity  of  the  physician  or  patient.  It  need  only  be 
added  that  the  food  should  not  be  taken  very  hot,  especially  in  the  form  of'  soup,  nor 
very  highly  seasoned,  nor  with  much  or  strong  wine.  On  the  whole,  it  must  be  admitted 
that  pancreatic  emulsions  given  by  the  mouth  are  less  valuable  than  was.  anticipated, 
probably  because  their  active  constituents  are  neutralized  by  the  acid  contents  of  the 
stomach,  to  a greater  degree  than  was  supposed. 

Trypsine  has  been  used  with  apparent  success  in  dissolving  diphtheritic  false  membrane. 
A solution  of  30  grains  in  an  ounce  of  water,  with  the  addition  of  10  grains  of  sodium 
bicarbonate,  was  employed  to  spray  the  affected  parts  (Chapin,  Med.  Rev .,  xxvii.,  257). 

PAPAVERIS  CAPSULE,  I>r. — Poppy-Capsules. 

Fructus  s.  Capita  papaveris  immaturi , P.  Gr. ; Papaver , U.  S.  1870. — Pavot  llanc,  Tetes 
de pavot,  Fr.  Cod.;  Mohnkapseln , Mohnkdpfe , Gr.  ; Adormidera , Sp. 

The  nearly-ripe  capsules  of  Papaver  somniferum,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med. 
Plants , 18. 

Nat.  Ord. — Papaveraceae. 

Origin. — The  poppy  is  an  annual  herb,  and  is  most  likely  indigenous  to  Western 
Asia  and  South-eastern  Europe,  where  it  is  found  wild  in  fields  and  waste  places.  It  is 


Fig.  203. 


Poppy-capsules  and  seeds:  a , natural  size  : b,  magnified. 

Black-  White.  Depressed. 


frequently  cultivated  in  gardens  for  ornament,  and  very  extensively  in  several  countries 
for  the  production  of  opium  (See  Opium).  The  stem  is  0.9-1. 5 M.  (3  to  5 feet)  high  ; 
the  leaves  are  alternate,  oval-oblong  sessile,  and  the  upper  ones  clasping,  irregularly  den- 
tate, frequently  cleft  or  nearly  pinnatifid,  rather  thick,  smooth,  and  glaucous.  The 
flowers  terminate  the  branches,  have  two  oval  blunt  caducous  sepals,  and  four  broad 
roundish  petals  varying  in  color  from  white  to  violet  and  dark-purple,  with  a darker  spot 
near  the  base.  The  stamens  are  numerous,  and  inserted  beneath  the  subglobular  ovary, 
which  is  crowned  by  the  peltate  radiating  stigma.  The  wild  form,  Papaver  setigerum, 
De  Candolle , has  acute  teeth,  prolonged  into  a stiff  bristle.  The  white  flowering  variety, 
Pap.  officinale,  Gmelin , has  white  seeds,  and  its  capsules  are  alone  recognized  by  pharma- 
copoeias. J 1 

Description.  Poppy-capsules  vary  in  shape  and  size  according  to  the  variety  of  the 
plant  from  which  they  have  been  obtained.  The  black  poppy  usually  has  rather  small 
capsules,  which  are  globular-ovate,  about  1?  inches  (37  Mm.)  in  diameter,  broadest  near 
the  base,  and  dehiscent  by  small  apertures  forming  underneath  the  stigma.  The  capsules 
ot  the  white  poppy  are  mostly  larger,  indehiscent,  and  occasionally  depressed  and  much 


1192 


PARAFFTNUM. 


broader  than  high,  but  usually  oblong,  or  in  some  varieties  much  elongated  and  narrowed 
toward  the  base.  The  sessile  and  peltate  stigma  is  formed  of  from  eight  to  twenty  rays, 
and  a similar  number  of  longitudinal  striae,  marking  the  sutures,  are  observed  upon  the 
immature  capsule,  which  is  smooth,  and  underneath  the  larger  laticiferous  vessels.  The 
capsule  is  one-celled,  but  internally  is  furnished  with  placentas  equal  in  number  to  the 
lobes  of  the  stigma  and  projecting  into  the  interior,  forming  incomplete  partitions.  In 
the  fresh  state  it  has  a narcotic  odor ; after  drying  it  is  nearly  inodorous ; its  taste  is 
bitter. 

Semen  papaveris,  P.  G. — Poppy-seed,  Maw-seed,  E. ; Semences  (Grains)  de  pavot, 

Fr.  ; Mohnsamen,  Magsamen,  G. — The  seeds  are  very  numerous,  quite  small,  about  1.2 
Mm.  (ttq  inch)  long,  reniform  in  shape,  white,  blackish,  or  bluish,  finely  netted-veined, 
and  contain  an  oily  albumen  enclosing  a curved  embryo.  They  are  inodorous,  and  have  a 
bland  oily  and  scarcely  bitterish  taste.  Only  white  poppy-seeds  are  medicinally  employed. 

Constituents. — 1-  The  Capsules.  Winckler  (1837),  Merck,  and  others  have 
demonstrated  the  presence  of  morphine  in  ripe  poppy-capsules ; the  former  chemist 
obtained  as  much  as  2 per  cent,  of  this  alkaloid,  and  likewise  narcotine  and  narceine. 
Groves  (1854)  found  also  another  alkaloid,  which  was  probably  codeine.  A.  Buchner 
obtained  an  alkaloid  which  differed  from  morphine,  and  other  chemists  were  unable 
to  find  the  latter.  Deschamps  (1864)  isolated  an  alkaloid,  and  silky  needles  of  a 
nitrogenous  body  called papaverin,  wrhich  is  said  to  have  an  acid  reaction;  the  alkaloid 
papaverosine  forms  colorless,  nearly  tasteless  prisms,  is  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  chloro- 
form, and  benzene,  has  a slight  alkaline  reaction,  and  with  sulphuric  acid  assumes  a violet 
color,  which  on  warming  becomes  red,  and  with  nitric  acid  orange-red.  Hesse  (1866) 
obtained  rhoeadine  from  ripe  poppy-capsules.  Besides  meconic  acid,  which  could  not  be 
detected  by  several  chemists,  citric  and  tartaric  acids  were  found  by  Deschamps.  The 
capsules  contain  considerable  mucilage.  The  waxy  coating  of  the  epidermis  is  scraped 
off  in  the  preparation  of  opium,  and  forms  a constituent  of  the  latter.  Examined  by 
Hesse  (1870),  it  yielded  a colorless  compound  insoluble  in  chloroform,  crystallizing  in 
prisms,  and  melting  above  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  ; the  portion  soluble  in  boiling  chloroform 
consists  of  cerylcerotate , C27H55.C.27H530.2,  which  crystallizes  in  silky  scales,  melts  at 
82.5°  C.  (180.5°  F.),  and  congeals  in  crystals  at  80°  C.  (176°  F.)  ; and  of  cerylpalmi- 
tate , C27H55.C,6H310.2,  which  forms  crystalline  warts  melting  at  76°  C.  (168.8°  F.) 

2.  The  Seeds.  Sacc  (1849)  obtained  from  white  poppy-seeds  nearly  55  per  cent,  of 
fixed  oil,  23  pectin,  and  12.6  per  cent,  protein  compounds.  Accarie  (1833)  announced 
that  he  isolated  30  grains  of  morphine  from  6 pounds  of  white  seeds.  The  fixed  oil 
(Oleum  papaveris,  P G. — Poppy-seed  oil,  E. ; Huile  de  pavots,  Huile  d’oeillette,  Fr. ; . 

Mohnbl,  G.)  is  pale-yellow,  bland,  limpid,  of  the  density  0.92,  congeals  near  —18°  C. 

(0°  F.),  and  on  exposure  becomes  thick  and  hard.  It  is  soluble  in  25  parts  of  alcohol,  \ 
freely  soluble  in  ether,  and  yields  when  saponified  9.5  per  cent,  of  glycerin. 

Uses. — Formerly  decoctions  of  poppy-heads  were  much  used  internally,  but  such  is 
no  longer  the  case  since  preparations  of  opium  of  definite  strength  have  become  multi-  < 
plied.  Even  for  external  use  such  decoctions  have  been  almost  entirely  supplanted  by 
liquid  opiates  and  plasters  containing  opium.  The  official  retention  of  papaver  seems 
unnecessary,  unless  for  pharmaceutical  purposes. 

P AR  AFFINUM . — Paraffin. 

Paraffinum  durum  and  Par.  moll-e , Br.  ; Paraffinum  liquidum  and  Par.  solidum , P.  G. ; 
Ceresinum. — Paraffine,  Fr.  ; Paraffin , G. 

Origin. — The  paraffins  are  produced  under  various  circumstances  from  fats  and  other 
organic  compounds,  but  are  chiefly  obtained  among  the  products  resulting  from  the 
destructive  distillation  of  many  organic  substances,  especially  cannel  and  boghead  coal, 
and  from  bituminous  shale.  They  are  a natural  constituent  in  varying  proportions  of 
the  different  kinds  of  petroleum,  and  solid  paraffins  are  found  native  in  Austria,  Great 
Britain,  the  United  States  (Utah),  and  some  other  countries,  constituting  the  minerals 
known  as  eartli-wax , fossil  ( mineral ) wax , ozokerite. 

Properties. — Paraffinum  durum,  Br.,  is  a colorless  semi-transparent,  crystalline, 
inodorous,  and  tasteless  mass,  slightly  greasy  to  the  touch.  Its  specific  gravity  is  0.820 
to  0.940.  It  melts  at  43.3°-62.80°  C.  (110°-145°  F.),  and  burns  with  a bright  flame, 
leaving  no  residue. 

Paraffinum  solidum,  P.  G.,  is  a white,  hard,  opaque,  micro-crystalline  mass,  free 
from  odor,  but  not  entirely  tasteless,  having  the  specific  gravity  0.920-0.940  and  melting 


PARAFFIN  UM. 


1193 


at  74°_80°  C.  (165.2°-176°  F.).  It  boils  above  360°  C.  ((180°  F.),  but  not  without 
decomposition.  At  ordinary  temperatures  it  is  not  affected  by  caustic  alkalies  nor  by 
concentrated  sulphuric  and  nitric  acids.  When  boiled  with  alcohol  the  latter  should  not 
acquire  an  acid  reaction.  If  3 Gm.  of  solid  paraffin  be  heated  together  with  3 Cc.  of  sul- 
phuric acid  in  a water-bath  for  ten  minutes,  the  paraffin  should  undergo  no  change  and 
the  acid  become  only  slightly  brownish. 

Paraffin  is  insoluble  in  water,  alkalies,  and  cold  alcohols,  but  dissolves  in  volatile  and 
fixed  oils,  ether,  chloroform,  benzene,  and  carbon  disulphide  ; the  solubility  is,  however, 
influenced  by  the  composition.  The  melting-point  of  commercial  paraffin  varies  much. 
Obtained  from  the  residuum  of  petroleum  distillation,  it  is  usually  about  43°  C.  (109.4° 
F.),  or  somewhat  higher  ; from  peat,  about  47°  C.  (116.6°  F.)  ; from  ozokerite,  about  60° 
C.  (140°  F.) ; from  Rangoon  tar  of  Burmah,  about  62°  C.  (143.6°  F.)  ; and  the  mineral 
wax  of  Moldavia,  known  as  zietrisikite , melts  between  85°  and  90°  C.  (185°— 194°  F.),  and 
is  insoluble  in  ether. 

Composition  and  Characters. — The  general  formula  of  the  paraffins  is  the 
same  as  that  of  the  lighter  coal  oils,  CnH2n+2,  but  in  their  physical  properties  they  differ 
from  the  latter  in  being  at  the  ordinary  temperature  either  solid,  and  frequently  crystal- 
line. or  of  a butyraceous  consistence  or  liquid.  Those  which  are  liquid  at  the  ordinary 
temperature  are  known  in  commerce  as  paraffin  oils,  while  the  nam e paraffin  is  retained 
for  the  solid  products.  They  can  be  separated  from  one  another  only  with  great  difficulty, 
but  it  is  known  that  the  different  members  of  this  homologous  series  increase  in  density, 
viscidity,  and  in  boiling-point,  and  the  solid  paraffins  also  in  melting-point  and  hardness, 
as  the  molecular  weight  increases.  The  paraffins,  obtained  in  as  pure  a state  as  possible, 
show. the  following  differences  : 

Nonane  (Nonylhydride),  C9  II20,  boils  near  138°  C.  = 280.4°  F.,  spec.  grav.  .741 

. _ / r\ r__n i,\  /V  tt  u -inn  onn  ll 


Decane  (Decatylhydride),  C10II22,  “ 160  = 320  u .757 

Endecane  (Undecylhydride),  CnII24,  “ 180  - 356  “ .766 

Dodecane  (Laurylhydride),  C12II26,  11  200  = 392  u .778 

Tridecane  (Cocinylhydride),  C13H28,  u 220  |=  428  “ .796 

Tetradecane  (Myristylhydride),  C14II30,  “ 240  = 464  “ .809 

Pentadecane  (Benylhydride),  C15H32,  u 260  = 500  “ .825 

Galletly  (1871)  ascertained  for  paraffins — 

Fusing  at  32.0°  39.0°  40.5°  53.3°  58.0°  59.0°  80.0°  C., 

the  spec.  grav.  .8236  .8480  .8520  .9100  .9243  .9248  .9400 


The  solubility  of  paraffins  in  benzene  decreases  as  the  melting-point  rises,  the  last  one 
of  the  table  being  nearly  insoluble  therein. 

Paraffins  are  not  easily  acted  on  by  chemicals.  By  continued  boiling  with  nitric  acid 
the  higher  paraffins  yield  nitro-compounds  and  various  acids.  Boiling  hydrochloric  acid 
or  contact  with  chlorine  gas,  ammonia,  or  potassa  has  no  effect  upon  paraffin,  but  the 
lowest  members  of  the  series,  which  are  gaseous  at  the  ordinary  temperature,  yield  sub- 
stitution-products with  chlorine. 

In  distilling  paraffin,  the  heat  to  which  the  vapors  are  exposed  influences  the  melting- 
point,  and  consequently  the  composition  ; at  a red  heat  naphthalene  is  produced,  and  when 
paraffin  is  heated  for  some  time  in  a sealed  tube  it  is  split  into  an  olefin  and  a paraffin  of 
a lower  boiling-point. 

Olefins  are  present  among  the  products  of  dry  distillation  of  organic  substances,  in 
rock  oils,  mineral  tars,  etc.  They  have  the  formula  CnH2n,  and  the  so-called  paraffin  oils 
usually  consist  principally  of  olefins,  particularly  of  heptilene , C7H14,  which  boils  at  96°  C. 
(205°  F.).  The  olefins  are  readily  polymerized  by  the  action  of  sulphuric  acid,  zinc 
chloride,  and  other  chemicals,  and  unite  with  the  halogens,  their  hydro-acids,  and  with 
hypochlorous  acid ; by  nascent  hydrogen  they  are  converted  into  paraffins. 

J.  L.  Lemberger  and  A.  W.  Miller  ascertained  (1875)  that  crude  paraffin  oils  may  be 
deprived  of  their  odor  by  filtering  them  through  granulated  animal  charcoal.  Cosmo  line, 

vaseline,  and  other  copyrighted  preparations  are  paraffins  containing  olefins  of  the  consist- 
ence of  ointments.  (See  Petrolatum.)  The  liquid  paraffins  are  extensively  employed  for 
lubricating  purposes,  and  are  known  in  commerce  as  lubricating  oils  and  neutral  oils. 

Action  and  Uses. — A case  of  death  in  a boy  from  swallowing  paraffin  oil  is  reported 
{Med.  Times  and  Gaz .,  Nov.  1878,  p.  631),  but  the  symptoms  are  not  detailed.  A child 
two  years  old  drank  some  of  the  oil,  and  fell  into  a state  of  collapse  with  drowsiness. 
There  was  neither  vomiting  nor  diarrhoea.  On  the  morrow  the  child  was  well  ( Lancet , 1880, 
vol.  ii.  p.  730).  Soft  paraffin  and  paraffin  oils  are  much  used  in  a pure  state  and  in  oint- 


1194 


PARALDEHYDUM. 


merits  as  a dressing  for  chilblains , burns,  excoriations,  bruises,  indolent  ulcers,  and  in  some 
diseases  of  the  skin,  especially  eczema,  psoriasis , and  scabies.  Bora  ted  vaseline  has  been 
applied  in  erysipelas,  and  the  pure  preparation  given  as  a protective  to  the  bowel  in  diar- 
rhoea (Randolph).  As  a substitute  for  various  fatty  substances,  oils,  lard,  glycerin,  and 
glycerite  of  starch  which  are  more  or  less  irritating  in  cutaneous  affections,  Kaposi  prefers 
petroleum  or  vaseline  jelly,  as  being  unirritating  and  having  no  tendency  to  become  rancid, 
and  employs  an  ointment  composed  of  equal  parts  of  lead  plaster  and  vaseline,  thoroughly 
incorporated  by  the  aid  of  heat  and  scented  with  oil  of  bergamot.  In  exceptional  cases 
vaseline  ointments  have  produced  boils  or  an  eczematous  eruption  of  the  skin,  probably 
because  they  were  not  pure.  Galezowski  recommends  vaseline  as  the  best  excipient  for 
yellow  oxide  of  mercury,  nitrate  of  silver,  etc.  in  the  treatment  of  scrofulous  affections 
of  the  eye , chiefly  keratitis  and  conjunctivitis.  The  lead  plaster  spoken  of  above  is  Ungu- 
entum  diachylon  Hebrse,  and  consists  of  simple  litharge  ointment  melted  with  an  equal 
quantity  of  olive  or  linseed  oil.  Solid  paraffin,  when  mixed  with  glycerin  or  linseed  oil, 
has  been  used  with  advantage  in  the  same  diseases  (Purdon).  Dubois  is  of  the  opinion 
that  vaseline  scented  with  otto  of  roses,  when  applied  to  the  vagina  during  parturition, 
facilitates  labor  by  relaxing  the  tissues  ; that  it  may  be  used  with  advantage  to  protect 
the  hands  of  the  obstetrician  in  vaginal  explorations  ; and  that  it  answers  better  than  oil 
or  soap  to  remove  the  smegma  from  the  new-born  child.  It  is  said  that  vaseline  used  as 
an  excipient  for  carbolic  acid  impairs  or  destroys  the  antiseptic  qualities  of  the  latter. 
But  when  the  mixture  is  applied  to  a moist  tissue  the  acid  is  dissolved  out  by  the  water 
of  the  part  and  exerts  its  special  action.  Mixed  with  an  equal  weight  of  honey  and  10 
grains  of  borax  or  of  chlorate  of  potassium  to  the  ounce,  it  is  a useful  application  in 
thrush.  Vaseline  mixed  with  Gm.  0.60  to  Gm.  32  (gr.  x to  the  ounce),  quickly  removes 
ascarides  of  the  rectum ; it  is  beneficial  in  the  ophthalmia  of  the  newborn  child ; cures 
the  coryza  of  suckling  children  when  applied  with  a brush  to  the  interior  of  the  nostrils ; 
and  effects  a rapid  healing  of  intertrigo. 

Pure  liquid  paraffin,  or  vaseline  oil,  “ dissolves  in  nearly  all  proportions  ether,  chloro- 
form, essential  oils,  benzine,  sulphide  of  carbon,  iodine,  bromine,  phosphorus,  eucalyptol, 
thymol,  inyrtol,  terpinol,  iodoform,  paraldehyde,  and  four  times  its  volume  of  sulphuretted 
hydrogen.  It  forms  a convenient  vehicle  for  their  administration  hypodermically,  since 
it  is  entirely  unirritating  and  very  diffusive,  so  that  the  taste  of  some  of  the  articles 
injected  is  almost  immediately  perceived  in  the  mouth.  It  can  be  made  to  dissolve  many 
alkaloids — e.  g.  morphine  and  cocaine — and  to  suspend  other  substances,  which  it  does 
not  dissolve — calomel,  for  instance.  Dujardin-Beaumetz  states  that  the  hypodermic  injec- 
tion of  a cubic  centimetre  of  equal  parts  of  eucalyptol  and  vaseline  oil,  injected  twice  a 
day,  controls  excessive  bronchial  secretion  and  its  attendant  cough  ; that  in  similar  pro- 
portions myrtol  palliates  neuralgia ; that  a cubic  centimetre  of  the  iodic  solution  is 
equivalent  to  15  grains  of  potassium  iodide  ; and  that  the  same  quantity  of  the  saturated 
solution  of  sulphuretted  hydrogen  in  vaseline  is  readily  tolerated  (Bull,  de  Therap .,  cxii. 
97).  Formulae  for  hypodermic  injection  have  been  proposed  by  Meunier  (ibid.  pp.  21 ; 
81  ; 174). 

PARALDEHYDUM,  U.  S.,  Br.  Add.,  B.  G.— Paraldehyde. 

Paraldehyd,  G. 

Formula  C6H1203.  Mol.  weight,  131.7. 

A polymeric  form  of  ethylic  aldehyde.  It  should  be  kept  in  well-stoppered,  dark 
amber-colored  bottles,  in  a cool  place. — U.  S. 

Preparation. — If  ordinary  (ethylic)  aldehyde  be  treated  at  normal  temperature 
with  small  quantities  of  hydrochloric  acid,  carbonyl  chloride,  (CO  Cl2),  sulphur  dioxide, 
or  zinc  chloride,  the  temperature  of  the  liquid  rises  and  almost  complete  conversion  into 
paraldehyde  takes  place.  For  the  trade  it  is  usually  manufactured  by  conducting  gaseous 
hydrochloric  acid  into  aldehyde  at  ordinary  temperature  ; the  conversion  into  paraldehyde 
is  known  to  be  complete  when  the  liquor  is  no  longer  soluble  in  an  equal  volume  of  water. 
The  crude  product  is  cooled  to  below  0°  C.  (32°  F.),  and  the  crystalline  mass  thus  ob- 
tained is  carefully  distilled,  the  process  of  freezing  and  distilling  being  repeated  until  the 
whole  product  finally  volatilizes  at  124°-C.  (255.2°  F.). 

Properties  and  Tests. — A colorless,  transparent  liquid,  having  a strong,  charac- 
teristic, but  not  unpleasant  or  pungent  odor,  and  a burning  and  cooling  taste.  Soluble  in 
8.5  parts  of  water  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  and  in  16.5  parts  of  boiling  water;  miscible  in  all 
proportions  with  alcohol,  ether,  and  fixed  or  volatile  oils.  When  cooled  to  near  0°  C. 


PARALDEHYDUM. 


1195 


(32°  F.),  paraldehyde  solidities  to  a crystalline  mass,  which  becomes  liquid  again  at  10.5° 
C.  (51°  F.).  It  boils  at  123°-125°  C.  (253.4°-257°  F.)  giving  off  inflammable  vapors. 
Paraldehyde  is  neutral,  or  has  a slightly  acid  reaction.  When  distilled  with  a small  por- 
tion of  sulphuric  acid,  paraldehyde  is  converted  into  ordinary  aldehyde,  boiling  at  about 
21°  C.  (70°  F.).  On  warming  some  silver  ammonium  nitrate  test-solution  saturated  wdth 
paraldehyde  in  a test-tube,  a silver  mirror  will  form  on  standing.  On  heating  some  par- 
aldehyde on  a water-bath,  it  should  completely  volatilize,  without  leaving  any  disagree- 
able odor  (absence  of  aldehyde  derived  from  fusel  oil).  1 Cc.  of  paraldehyde  should  form 
with  10  Cc.  of  water  a clear  solution,  free  from  oily  drops  (absence  of  amylic  alcohol,  etc.), 
and  this  solution,  when  acidulated  wTith  nitric  acid,  should  not  be  affected  by  silver  nitrate 
test-solution  (absence  of  hydrochloric  acid),  or  barium  chloride  test-solution  (absence  of 
sulphuric  acid).  A mixture  of  8 Cc.  of  paraldehyde  and  8 Cc.  of  alcohol  with  1 drop  of 
phenolphtalein  test-solution  should  acquire  a pink  color  upon  the  addition  of  0.5  Cc.  of 
normal  potassium  hydroxide  test-solution  (limit  of  free  acid). — U.  S. 

The  P.  G.  and  Br.  Add.  give  the  specific  gravity  at  0.998  ; the  latter  requires  that  no 
coloration  shall  take  place  within  two  hours  if  paraldehyde  be  mixed  with  a solution  of 
potassa  or  soda  (intended  to  detect  the  presence  of  aldeyde).  “ A mixture  of  1 Cc.  each 
of  paraldehyde  and  alcohol  should  not,  after  addition  of  1 drop  of  normal  alkali  solution, 
show  an  acid  reaction  (limit  of  acid).” — P.  G. 

Allied  Compounds. — Metaldehyde,  C12H2406,  is  obtained  by  the  action  of  polymerizing  agents 
on  common  aldehyde  at  a temperature  of  0°  C.  (32°  F.)  It  is  a white  crystalline  body,  insoluble 
in  water,  but  freely  soluble  in  alcohol  and  ether.  When  heated  to  112°-115°  C.  (233.6°-239°F). 
it  sublimes  without  melting,  but  is  partially  decomposed.  It  is  claimed  to  possess  hypnotic 
properties  (Helbing).  Sulphaldehyde  is  formed  by  the  action  of  hydrogen  sulphide  on  alde- 
hyde. It  is  said  to  be  an  oily  liquid  of  a repulsive  odor,  solidifying  at  — 8°  C.  (17.6°  F.),  and 
melting  again  at  — 2°  C.  (28.4°  F.).  Little  attention  has  been  bestowed  upon  it. 

Aldehyde,  Acetic  or  ethylic  aldehyde,  Acetaldehyde.  CH3CHO  — C2II40,  mol.  weight,  43.90. 
This  body  was  noticed,  but  not  isolated,  by  Scheele  (1774),  who  supposed  it  to  be  ether.  Liebig 
(1835)  isolated  it  and  determined  its  relation  to  alcohol.  Aldehyde  is  formed  by  the  oxidation 
of  alcohol  and  many  of  its  derivatives ; it  is  found  among  the  products  of  the  dry  distillation  of 
wood  and  sugar  and  on  distilling  various  protein  compounds  with  manganese  dioxide  and  sulph- 
uric acid.  The  formation  of  polymeric  modifications  of  aldehyde  was  first  observed  by  Liebig. 
Pure  aldehyde  is  prepared  by  distilling  either  of  the  two  following  mixtures : 4 parts  each  of  80 
per  cent,  alcohol  and  water  and  6 parts  each  of  manganese  dioxide  and  sulphuric  acid  (Liebig), 
or  3 parts  of  alcohol,  4 parts  of  sulphuric  acid,  mixed  and  slowly  added  to  3 parts  of  potassium 
dichromate  and  12  parts  of  -water  contained  in  a glass  retort  (Rogers).  In  both  cases  the  impure 
distillate  is  rectified  at  a temperature  of  50°  C.  (122°  F.),  and  the  vapors  conducted  into  anhydrous 
ether,  which  is  afterward  charged  with  gaseous  ammonia,  when  aldeliy deammonia,  C2H4ONII3, 
crystallizes.  The  crystals  are  washed  with  ether,  decomposed  by  dilute  sulphuric  acid,  and  the 
distillate  rectified  over  calcium  chloride.  As  thus  obtained  it  is  a colorless,  very  mobile  liquid, 
of  neutral  reaction,  and  very  inflammable  ; it  has  a peculiar,  rather  suffocating,  odor,  and  boils 
at  21°  C.  (69.8°  F.).  It  is  miscible  in  all  proportions  with  water,  alcohol,  and  ether,  and  yields 
with  alcoholic  potassa  solution  a yellow  resin  (aldehyde  resin),  and  exposed  to  the  air  is  con- 
verted into  acetic  acid.  Aldehyde  separates  from  ammoniacal  silver  nitrate  solution  a metallic 
mirror,  the  reaction  becoming  more  delicate  in  the  presence  of  caustic  soda. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Elixir  of  paraldehyde  may  be  prepared  as  follows : 
Dissolve  3 fluidounces  of  paraldehyde  in  10  fluidounces  of  alcohol,  add  4 ounces  of  orange- 
flower  water,  10  fluidounces  of  simple  syrup,  caramel  5 minims,  and  sufficient  distilled 
water  to  make  32  fluidounces  (Wearn). 

Action  and  Uses. — The  experiments  of  Cervello  {Jour.  Amer.  Med.  Assoc.,  v.  11), 
of  Gordon  {Brit.  Med.  Jour.,  March  1889,  p.  515),  and  of  others  furnish  substantially 
the  same  results.  In  doses  of  15  to  45  grains  its  soporific  effects  are  speedily  developed, 
but  less  so  in  perfectly  healthy  persons  than  when  wakefulness  exists.  They  are  not 
preceded  by  excitement.  The  sleep  is  natural  and  tranquil,  and  the  awakening  is  not 
attended  with  headache  or  weariness.  The  heart,  pulse,  temperature,  and  respiration  are 
somewhat  reduced  during  the  sleep,  and  as  in  natural  sleep  the  blood-pressure  within  the 
brain  diminishes.  It  does  not  impair  the  appetite.  It  is  eliminated  chiefly  by  the  lungs, 
and  gives  to  the  breath  a smell  like  that  exhaled  by  a confirmed  alcoholic  drunkard.  The 
urine  has  a similar  odor.  Given  to  guinea-pigs  in  poisonous  doses,  it  produces  complete 
insensibility,  with  lowered  temperature  and  respiration,  until  death.  The  heart’s  beat 
survives  respiration.  Among  the  unfavorable  actions  of  this  preparation  may  be  enum- 
erated irritation  of  the  mucous  membranes  (throat,  rectum),  impaired  digestion,  scarla- 
tinoid eruptions  and  desquamation  of  the  cuticle,  irritation  of  the  eyes,  and  ulceration 
of  the  nails  (Kiernan,  Therap.  Gaz .,  x.  719).  Its  hypodermic  use  is  painful  and  irri- 


1196 


PAREIRA. 


tating.  Capelli  and  Brugia  (ibid.,  xi.  336)  found  it  to  lessen  the  rate  and  tension  of  the 
pulse,  and  suggest  its  danger  in  cases  with  feeble  heart.  Rolleston  has  reported  (Practi- 
tioner, xli.  339)  a case  of  advanced  emphysema  with  dilatation  of  the  heart  and  a dusky 
complexion,  in  which  a drachm  of  the  medicine  occasioned  collapse,  with  rapid  and  feeble 
pulse  and  respiration.  The  case  is  recorded  of  a lady  who  daily  consumed  an  ounce  or 
more  of  the  medicine,  was  unable  to  sleep  without  it,  and  if  deprived  of  it  became  sleep- 
less, wretched,  full  of  pains,  and  without  appetite  (Med.  Record,  xxxv.  391).  This  and 
similar  cases  may  perhaps  be  explained  by  the  results  of  experiment,  such  as  those  of 
Bokai  (Centralb.  f.  Ther.,  v.  44),  which  showed  that  its  prolonged  use  might  produce 
fatty  degeneration  of  the  heart  and  liver,  and  of  Frohner  (Edinb.  Med.  Jour.,  xxxiii. 
675),  who  found  that  in  dogs  it  produced  disorganization  of  the  red  corpuscles  of  the 
blood.  On  the  whole,  its  action  is  closely  analogous  to  that  of  chloral,  but  it  is  less  apt 
to  cause  depression  or  collapse.  Its  analgesic  action  is  also  less  marked.  It  is  hypnotic 
rather  than  anodyne  ; hence  pain  counteracts  its  operation. 

It  appears  to  be  best  adapted  to  relieve  what  may  be  called  idiopathic  insomnia  as  it  is 
met  with  in  many  nervous  states,  including  various  forms  of  mental  strain,  insanity, 
melancholia , and  delirium  tremens.  In  acute  mania  and  agitated  melancholia  it  seems  to 
have  proved  useful.  Dr.  Harris,  of  the  Pennsylvania  State  Hospital  for  the  Insane  at 
Norristown,  employed  it  in  152  cases  of  insanity,  including  38  of  an  acute  type,  and 
found  it  efficient  as  a hypnotic  and  free  from  all  objection  on  the  score  of  danger  (Philad. 
Med.  Times,  xv.  602).  In  delirium  tremens  it  is  also  very  appropriate  if  not  given  in 
extravagant  doses,  and  especially  when  duly  associated  with  alcohol.  Among  those  who 
have  corroborated  these  statements  by  the  results  of  their  observation  may  be  named 
Sympson  ( Practitioner , xliii.  13),  Savage  (ibid.,  xxxviii.  35),  Goodhart  (Brit.  Med.  Jour., 
Jan.  19,  1889),  Stewart  (i ibid .,  Apr.  1889,  p.  848),  Finucane  (Lancet,  July  1889,  p.  15), 
Hay  (Amer.  Jour.  Med.  Sci .,  July  1889,  p.  34),  Jastrowitz  (Therap.  Gaz.,  xiii.  646), 
Williams  (Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  Jan.  1887,  p.  89),  and  Keniston  (ibid.,  June 
1888,  p.  575).  Dr.  Clouston,  physician  to  the  Edinburgh  Asylum  for  the  Insane  (Amer. 
Jour.  Med.  Sci.,  xcvii.  353),  declares  paraldehyde  to  be  a hypnotic  “ free  from  risks  near 
or  remote,”  leaving  behind  it  none  of  the  unpleasant  effects  of  other  soporifics,  and  suited 
to  all  forms  of  insanity,  simple  or  complicated,  in  the  young  or  old.  He  never  saw  it 
“ affect  the  heart’s  action  in  any  way  except  to  strengthen  it,”  and  yet  he  prescribed  un- 
usually large  doses,  such  as  three  or  four  drachms.  As  it  does  not  successfully  overcome 
sleeplessness  due  to  pain,  so,  too,  it  is  of  little  use  when  this  symptom  depends  upon  fever, 
dyspnoea,  heart  disease,  etc.  Yet  it  has  been  successful  in  allaying  itching  of  the  skin  in 
some  cases  of  jaundice,  and  thereby  promoting  sleep.  It  is  said  to  have  relieved  vomiting 
in  sick  headache,  in  pregnancy,  irritable  ovary,  etc.  (Therap.  Gaz.,  xii.  539). 

Paraldehyde  has  been  proposed  as  an  antidote  to  strychnine-poisoning,  but  it  does  not 
appear  to  have  been  tested  clinically.  It  has  also  been  employed  in  the  treatment  of 
the  morphine  habit. 

The  dose  of  paraldehyde  varies  from  Gm.  0.30-4  (5  to  60  gr.).  It  may  be  prescribed 
in  sweetened  water,  with  brandy  or  whisky,  and  flavored  with  an  aromatic  or  a bitter 
tincture  to  mask  its  offensive  taste.  It  has  also  been  used  in  suppositories  containing 
Gm.  1 (15  gr.)  each,  with  or  without  the  addition  of  opium. 

Aldehyde  has  been  tried  on  man,  but  its  property  of  arresting  respiration  when  inhaled, 
and  its  irritant  action  upon  the  lungs  and  the  stomach,  have  caused  it  to  be  avoided  as  an 
anaesthetic.  It  has,  however,  been  applied  to  the  nasal  passages  in  chronic  catarrh  and 
ozaena.  For  this  purpose  a solution  of  Gm.  0.3-0. 5 in  Gm.  500  has  been  employed  (say 
r^v-x  in  Oj  of  hot  water). 

Metaldehyde  is  said  to  be  used  in  the  same  manner  and  for  the  same  purposes  as 
aldehyde. 

PAREIRA,  U.  S.— Pareira. 

Pareirse  radix,  Br. — Pareira  brava , E.,  Fr.,  G.,  Sp.  ; Butua,  Fr.,  Sp. ; Grieswurzel , G. 

The  root  of  Chondodendrom  tomentosura,  Ruiz  et  Pavon,  s.  Cocculus  Chondodendron, 
De  Candolle,  s.  Cissampelos  Abutua,  Vellozo,  s.  Botryopsis  platyphylla,  Miers.  Bentley 
and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  11. 

Nat.  Ord. — Menispermacese. 

Origin. — Pareira  brava  was  formerly  referred  to  Cissampelos  Pareira,  Linn 6 , s.  Ciss. 
microcarpa,  De  Candolle  (Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  15),  which  is  a woody  climber 
indigenous  to  the  West  Indies  and  Central  America,  and  probably  to  other  tropical  coun- 


PAREIRA. 


1197 


tries.  It  is  medicinally  employed  there,  but  is  not  exported.  The  root  as  well  as  the 
stem  rarely  reaches  25  Mm.  (one  inch)  in  diameter,  and  is  often  not  thicker  than  a goose- 
quill  ; both  show  no  concentric  rings  in  transverse  section,  the  wood  consisting  of  about 
twenty  porous  wedges,  separated  by  narrower  medullary  rays  and  covered  by  a gray- 
brown  suberous  bark. 

The  true  origin  of  pareira  brava  was  established  by  Hanbury  (1873),  and  is  the  spe- 
cies mentioned  above,  which,  according  to  Peckolt,  is  known  in  Brazil  as  abutuia.  This 
is  a tall  woody  climber  of  Brazil  and  Peru,  having  large  cordate  or  ovate-cordate,  some- 
what five-nerved  leaves,  very  small  unisexual  flowers  and  purplish-black  ovoid  one-seeded 
drupaceous  fruits,  which  form  thick  bunches  resembling  grapes  in  appearance. 

Description. — Pareira  brava  comes  to  us  in  pieces  7-15  Cm.  (3  to  6 inches)  long, 
or  even  longer,  and  from  about  2-10  Cm.  (1  to  4 inches)  in  diameter,  more  or  less  tor- 
tuous, dark-brownish  gray  externally,  and  marked  with  transverse  ridges  and  fis- 
sures and  with  irregular  longitudinal  furrows.  Internally  it  is  of  a pale-brown  color, 
when  cut  exhibits  a somewhat 
waxy  lustre,  and  on  breaking 
shows  a fibrous  fracture.  On 
transverse  section  are  seen,  un- 
der a thin  bark,  two  or  more 
concentric  zones  separated  by 
wavy  circle's  of  a waxy  tissue 
of  parenchyma,  resembling 
that  of  the  medullary  rays ; in 
each  zone  are  found  a vary- 
ing number  of  harder  porous 
wood-wedges.  Each  one  of 
the  different  zones  is  mostly 
nearly  uniform  in  width,  so 
that  the  axis  is  nearly  in  the 
centre  of  the  root:  Pareira 

brava  is  nearly  inodorous  and 
has  a bitter  taste. 

Admixtures  and  Sub- 
stitutions. — The  stem  of 
chondodendron  is  sometimes 
found  mixed  with  the  com- 
mercial root,  which  it  closely 
resembles.  It  is  distinguished 
by  being  rather  more  woody, 
but  more  particularly  by  the 
distinct  central  pith. 

Several  drugs  derived  from 

menispermaceous  plants  have 

been  sold  in  place  of  pareira 

brava;  these  consisted  of 

roots,  or  more  frequently  of 

r>  .1  / m,  Pareira  brava:  portion  of  a root,  and  transverse  sections  of  the  same, 

sections  of  the  stem.  The 

one  which  was  most  commonly  met  with  some  years  ago  consisted  of  woody,  more  or  less 
flattened  pieces,  with  a thin  brown-gray  bark,  often  covered  with  patches  of  lichens,  and 
upon  transverse  section  showed  numerous  woody  zones  in  more  or  less  eccentric  layers, 
so  that  the  axis  was  removed  to  one  side.  This  variety  of  false  pareira  brava  is  not 
readily  cut  with  the  knife,  does  not  present  a waxy  appearance  of  the  internal  tissue,  and, 
though  possessed  of  a bitter  taste,  is  much  less  so  than  the  root  of  chondodendron.  A 
second  variety  of  false  pareira  was  usually  in  thinner  pieces,  of  a brown  color,  very 
woody  and  nearly  concentrically  arranged  in  the  interior,  and  almost  tasteless. 

A yellow  pareira  brava  has  also  been  met  with  in  commerce,  and  was  imported  from 
Brazil.  It  consists  of  the  flat,  often  twisted  stems,  which  Bentley  and  Trimen  presume 
to  be  obtained  from  Abuta  amara,  Aublet.  This  kind  is  easily  recognized  by  the  eccen- 
tric arrangement  of  its  woody  zones  and  by  its  bright-yellow  color  internally.  C.  Morri- 
son (1878)  isolated  from  it  an  alkaloid  which  closely  resembles  berberine,  but  appears  to 
be  distinct  from  it,  since  with  iodine  it  gave  a reddish-brown  crystalline  precipitate  instead 
of  green  spangles. 


Fig.  205. 


1198 


PA  PIET  A RIA  .—PAR  THEN  I UM. 


Hanbury  mentions  also  a white  pareira  brava,  derived  from  Abuta  rufescens,  Aublet , 
which  has  numerous  concentric  layers  traversed  by  very  distinct  dark  medullary  rays, 
the  interradial  spaces  being  white  and  rich  in  starch.  It  is  known  in  Brazil  as  butua 
(Martius,  Peckolt),  and  is  not  an  article  of  commerce. 

Constituents. — Wiggers  (1838)  obtained  an  alkaloid  from  pareira  brava  which  was 
named  pelosine  or  cissampeline , and  was  found  by  Fliickiger  to  be  identical  with  beberine, 
paricine,  and  buxine  (see  pp.  325  and  1077),  and  to  exist  also  in  the  stem  and  root  of  Cis- 
sampelos  Pareira,  IAnne , to  the  extent  of  about  £ per  cent.  Pareira  brava  contains  it  in 
the  same  proportion.  The  pure  alkaloid  is  amorphous,  nearly  insoluble  in  water,  some- 
what soluble  in  ether  and  carbon  disulphide,  but  freely  soluble  in  chloroform  and  acetone, 
also  in  alcohol  and  benzene ; its  nitrate  is  sparingly  soluble,  and  its  acetate  is  precipitated 
by  sodium  phosphate,  by  the  group  reagents  for  alkaloids,  and  by  potassium  iodide,  fer- 
rocyanide,  ferricyanide  and  chromate ; the  precipitate  with  phosphomolybdic  acid  dis- 
solves in  ammonia  with  a blue  color.  Feneuille  (1821)  examined  pareira  brava,  and 
obtained  a yellow  bitter  principle  soluble  in  alcohol  and  ether,  a soft  resin  soluble  in 
alcohol,  and  brown  extractive  soluble  in  alcohol  and  water. 

Infusum  pareira,  U.  S.  1870. — Infusion  of  pareira  brava,  E. ; Tisane  de  pareira, 
Fr. ; Pareira-Infusion,  G. — Pareira  brava,  bruised,  a troyounce ; boiling  water,  a pint ; 
macerate  for  two  hours  in  a covered  vessel,  and  strain. 

Action  and  Uses. — Pareira  appears  to  be  analogous  in  its  ATirtues  to  uva  ursi 
and  chimaphila,  since  they  are  chiefly  manifested  in  diseases  of  the  mucous 'membrane 
of  the  urinary  organs,  and  especially  in  those  attended  with  muco-purulent  deposits  in 
the  urine.  In  chronic  pyelitis  and  cystitis  it  may  be  advantageously  administered  in 
the  form  of  infusion,  decoction,  or  the  official  fluid  extract.  The  solid  extract  is  less 
efficient.  The  former  official  infusion  was  made  with  an  ounce  of  pareira  to  a pint  of 
boiling  water.  The  dose  is  represented  by  Gm.  2-4  (gr.  xxx-lx)  of  the  root. 

PARIETARIA. — Parietaria,  Pellitory. 

Wall  pellitory,  E.  ; Parietaire , Fr.  Cod.;  Perce-muraille , Fr. ; Glaskraut,  Gr. ; Parie- 
taria , Sp. 

Nat.  Ord. — Urticacese,  Urticeae. 

Description. — The  following  perennial  European  species  has  been  used : 

Par.  officinalis,  Linne.  The  stem  is  diffusely  branched,  reddish,  rough-hairy ; the 
leaves  are  petiolate,  alternate,  short-hairy,  elliptic,  entire,  and  acute ; the  polygamous 
flowers  are  in  cymose  axillary  clusters  with  an  involucre  of  short  bracts,  which  are 
united  at  the  base.  The  plant  is  perennial,  and  grows  on  walls  and  along  roadsides. 
A variety  with  a nearly  simple  stem  is  Par.  erecta,  Koch. 

Par.  pennsylvanica,  Muhlenberg , indigenous  to  the  United  States,  probably  possesses 
similar  properties.  It  is  an  annual,  has  thin  oblong-lanceolate,  rather  obtuse  and  opaquely- 
dotted  leaves,  and  an  involucre  which  is  longer  than  the  flowers.  It  grows  on  shaded 
rocky  banks. 

These  plants  are  inodorous,  and  have  a mucilaginous,  saline,  and  slightly  bitter  taste. 

Constituents. — No  complete  analysis  of  these  plants  has  been  made.  Among  the 
saline  constituents  of  the  European  species  potassium  nitrate  is  named. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — The  infusion  and  syrup  of  parietaria  are  used  in  France. 
Tisane  de  parietaire  is  made  from  1 part  of  the  leaves  and  100  parts  of  boiling  water. 
Strop  de  parietaire  is  prepared  by  dissolving  19  parts  of  sugar  in  10  parts  of  the 
expressed  and  clarified  juice  of  the  herb. 

Action  and  Uses. — -Anciently,  common  wall  pellitory  was  held  to  be  astringent, 
"cleansing,  and  cooling,  and  hence  was  applied  in  the  first  stage  of  abscesses  and  other 
local  inflammations,  including  burns , erysipelas,  inflamed  haemorrhoids,  gouty  joints,  and 
scaly  eruptions.  Its  expressed  juice  was  used  as  a gargle , and  in  modern  times  was 
taken  internally,  in  the  dose  of  Gun.  32-64  (f§j-ij)  as  a diuretic  and  lithotriptic. 

PARTHENIUM. — Feverfew,  Featherfew. 

Matricaire , Fr.  Cod.  ; Mutterhraut , Gr. ; Matricaria , Yerba  de  Santa  Maria , Sp. 

The  flowering  herb  of  Pyrethrum  (Matricaria,  Linne , Chrysanthemum,  Persoon,  Tan- 
acetum,  C.  II.  Schultz ) Parthenium,  Smith. 

Nat.  Ord. — Compositae,  Senecionideae. 

Origin. — Feverfew  is  a perennial  herb  growing  in  waste  places  in  Europe  and  culti- 
vated in  gardens,  where  it  is. often  seen  with  double  flowers. 


PASSIFLOEA. 


1199 


Description. — The  stem  is  about  60  Cm.  (2  feet)  high,  furrowed,  and  has  alternate, 
petiolate,  ovate,  twice  pinnately-cleft  leaves  with  obovate  or  oblong  mostly  toothed  lobes, 
the  teeth  terminating  with  a white  point.  The  flower-heads  are  in  small  cymes  at  the 
end  of  the  branches,  have  an  involucre  composed  of  linear  scales  in  two  rows,  a naked 
hemispherical  receptacle,  white  ligulate  obovate  and  three-toothed  ray-florets,  and  tubular 
yellow  disk-florets.  The  herb  (herba  matricarise)  has  a peculiar  odor  resembling  that  of 
chamomile,  but  less  agreeable,  and  a bitter,  somewhat  acrid  taste. 

Constituents. — The  bitter  principle  of  feverfew  has  not  been  isolated  ; the  tannin 
is  of  that  variety  which  produces  dark-green  precipitates  with  iron  salts.  The  volatile 
oil  contains,  according  to  Dessaignes  and  Chatard  (1848),  a stearopten  which  has  the 
composition  of  camphor,  C10H16O,  fuses  at  170°  C.  (338°  F.),  and  turns  polarized  light 
to  the  left;  also  another  oxygenated  but  liquid  portion,  and  probably  a hydrocarbon. 

Allied  Plants. — Parthenium  integrifolium,  Linne , a North  American  perennial  growing  in 
dry  soil  in  the  Southern  and  Western  States,  has  oblong  or  ovate  leaves,  of  which  the  lower  ones 
are  sometimes  lobed,  and  the  upper  ones  merely  crenately  toothed,  and  small  corymbose  flower- 
heads,  with  a conical  chaffy  receptacle,  five  inconspicuous  white  pistillate  ray-florets,  and  sterile 
disk-florets.  It  has  a bitter  taste. 

Parth.  Hvsterophorus,  Limit,  indigenous  to  the  West  Indies,  Florida,  and  Louisiana,  resem- 
bles the  preceding,  but  has  bipinnatifid  leaves  and  numerous  small  flower-heads.  It  is  employed 
like  feverfew. 

Silphium  laciniatum,  Linne , is  indigenous  to  the  Western  and  Southwestern  United  States, 
and  attains  a height  of  1.5-3  M.  (5  to  10  feet).  The  root  is  60-90  Cm.  (2  to  3 feet)  long,  and 
contains  a circle  of  resin-ducts  in  the  bark  and  one  near  the  centre.  The  flowers  have  a cup- 
shaped involucre  composed  of  imbricated  ovate  pointed  and  squarrous  scales,  and  contain  numerous 
yellow  tubular  sterile  disk-florets  and  many  pistillate  yellow  ray-florets,  with  compressed,  broadly 
winged,  and  notched  akenes.  On  the  open  prairies  the  lower  leaves  point  north  and  south,  hence 
the  names  compass-plant  and  polar-plant.  The  leaves  are  rough  and  bristly,  ovate  in  outline, 
pinnately  divided,  the  segments  lanceolate,  toothed  or  lobed.  All  parts  of  the  plant  are  rich  in 
resin,  hence  the  name  rosin-weed.  The  exudation  of  the  stem  and  leaves  forms  translucent  or 
transparent  tears  resembling  mastic  in  appearance,  having  an  agreeable  terebinthinate  odor  and 
taste,  and  readily  becoming  plastic  when  masticated.  It  is  only  partly  soluble  in  the  different 
simple  solvents,  and,  according  to  L.  I.  Morris  (1881),  contains  nearly  20  per  cent,  of  volatile 
oil  consisting  of  a hydrocarbon,  and  37  per  cent,  of  acid  resin,  which,  on  being  fused  with  potassa, 
does  not  yield  protocatechuic  acid ; the  other  constituents  are  wax,  a little  sugar,  £ per  cent,  of 
inorganic  salts,  and  a whitish  tasteless  powder  insoluble  in  alcohol,  but  soluble  in  chloroform 
and  carbon  disulphide. 

Silphium  terebixthinaceum,  Linn 6,  Prairie  burdock.  It  has  a smooth  stem  and  smaller  flower- 
heads  than  the  preceding,  with  smooth  and  obtuse  involucral  scales.  The  leaves  are  thick,  rough, 
cordately  ovate,  and  toothed  or  pinnatifid.  The  plant  likewise  yields  a resinous  exudation. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  medicinal  properties  of  Matricaria  parthenium  may  be 
referred  to  the  bitter  principle  associated  with  the  essential  oil  which  it  contains.  It  has 
been  much  used  in  the  treatment  of  flatulent  or  atonic  dyspepsia , in  amenorrhcea , dys- 
menorrhoea , and  simple  intermittent  fever , as  well  as  in  conditions  of  nervous  debility  with 
hysterical  symptoms,  and  as  an  anthelmintic. 

The  expressed  juice  has  been  administered,  and  also  a decoction  and  infusion  of  the 
herb.  The  last  is  sometimes  applied,  like  chamomile,  in  fomentations,  to  allay  the  pain 
of  local  inflammations  ( toothache , abscesses,  rheumatism ) and  to  promote  suppuration. 

The  flowering-tops  of  Parthenium  integrifolium  are  extremely  bitter.  Many  years  ago 
an  infusion  made  from  them  was  reported  to  be  remarkably  efficacious  in  curing  intermit- 
tent fever.  As  no  further  testimony  has  been  published  in  confirmation  of  this  statement, 
it  may  fairly  be  assumed  to  have  been  exaggerated,  and  that  the  alleged  cures  were  only 
such  as  occasionally  follow  the  use  of  various  vegetable  bitters.  Parthenine , an  extract, 
erroneously  called  an  alkaloid,  and  derived  from  P.  luster ophorus,  is  said,  in  the  dose  of 
Um.  0.20  (gr.  iij),  to  quicken,  and  of  Gm.  i (gr.  xv)  to  slow,  the  pulse,  and  in  some  cases 
to  occasion  more  or  less  giddiness  or  sinking,  and  to  have  relieved  neuralgia  of  the  fifth 
nerve  when  given  in  doses  of  from  two  to  several  grams  an  hour  ( Bull . et  Mem.  de  la  Soc. 
<le  Therap.,  1886,  p.  40).  The  species  of  Silphium  above  mentioned  are  more  allied  by 
their  medicinal  virtues  to  the  gum-resins  than  to  the  aromatic  bitters.  They  are  noticed 
under  Opopanax. 


PASSIFLORA. — Passion-Flower. 

Grandille , Fr.  ; Passionsblume , G.  ; Granadita , Sp. 

Nat.  Ord. — Passifloracese. 

Origin  and  Description. — This  genus  is  chiefly  confined  to  tropical  America,  and 


1200 


PEPO. 


consists  of  climbing  shrubs  or  herbs  with  alternate  undivided  or  palmately  lobed  stipulate 
leaves  and  perfect  flowers.  The  calyx  has  five  sepals,  united  below  to  a short  cup-shaped 
tube,  which  is  fringed  in  the  throat  with  two  or  three  rows  of  filaments.  The  five  petals 
are  inserted  on  the  throat  of  the  calyx  ; the  five  stamens  are  united  with  their  filaments, 
forming  a tube  from  which  the  long-stalked  ovary  projects,  bearing  three  somewhat  club- 
shaped  styles  ; the  fruit  is  often  edible,  berry-like,  one-celled,  and  contains  numerous  seeds, 
which  are  invested  with  a pulpy  covering.  Two  indigenous  species  have  been  employed 
to  a limited  extent. 

P.  lutea,  Linne , has  obtusely  three-lobed  leaves  with  the  lobes  entire,  and  greenish- 
yellow  flowers ; and  P.  incarnata,  Linne , with  three-lobed  serrated  leaves,  and  large 
whitish  flowers  having  a flesh-colored  crown.  The  berry  of  the  latter  is  orange-yellow, 
oval,  of  the  size  of  a hen’s  egg,  and  is  known  as  May-pops. 

Allied  Plants. — The  following  are  indigenous  to  tropical  America  : 

P.  ccerulea,  Linne , has  five-lobed  leaves,  greenish  flowers  with  blue  fringes,  and  orange-colored 
berries. 

P.  lyrasfolia,  Tussac.  The  ovate  leaves  are  divided  at  the  end  into  three  unequal  lobes ; the 
flowers  are  red  and  the  berries  cherry-like. 

P.  rubra,  Linne , has  two-lobed  leaves,  whitish  and  pale-red  flowers  and  scarlet-red  berries. 

P.  maliformis,  Linne.  Its  white,  blue-fringed  flowers  produce  a fruit  resembling  an  apple  in 
size,  shape,  and  color. 

P.  quadrangularis,  Linne , has  quadrangular  and  winged  branches  and  yellowish  berries  of 
the  size  and  shape  of  goose-eggs. 

P.  fcetida,  Cavanilles , with  three-lobed  leaves,  and  whitish  flowers  having  a purple  crown,  is 
characterized  by  its  strong  disagreeable  odor. 

The  fruits  of  the  allied  Paropsis  edulis,  Petit-Thouars,  Tacsonia  tripartita,  Jussieu , T.  molis- 
sima,  Kunth , and  others,  are  edible. 

The  constituents  of  these  plants  are  unknown. 

Action  and  Uses. — Several  species  of  Passiflora  are  endowed  with  active  quali- 
ties. P.  quadrangularis,  a West  India  plant,  was  long  ago  (1824)  stated  to  cause  in 
animals,  spasms,  paralysis,  and  a cataleptic  condition,  and  its  root  was  said  to  be  emetic. 
In  Jamaica,  P.  rubra  was  regarded  as  narcotic  ; P.  fcetida,  as  “ pectoral,  anti-spasmodic, 
and  emmenagogue  P.  laurifolia,  as  anthelmintic  ; and  P.  lyraefolia,  as  diuretic.  Accord- 
ing to  Phares,  P.  lutea  and  incarnata,  the  passion-flower  indigenous  to  our  Southern 
States,  was  used  by  him  “ with  extraordinary  success  in  all  cases  of  tetanus  neonatorum 
in  all  sorts  of  neuralgic  affections ,”  and  in  the  form  of  an  extract  of  the  root  as  “ an  appli- 
cation to  chancres , irritable  piles,  erysipelas , and  recent  burns.”  An  extract  prepared  by 
evaporating  to  dryness  the  expressed  juice  of  the  leaves  gathered  in  May  was  given  in 
the  form  of  powder,  and  in  the  dose  of  from  1 to  4 teaspoonfuls.  For  external  use  an 
inspissated  decoction  of  the  whole  plant  was  used. 


PEPO,  U.  S. — Pumpkin- Seed. 

Semen  Peponis. — Semences  de  potirons,  Fr. ; Kiirbissamen , Gr. ; Semillas  de  calaboza,  Sp. 

The  seed  of  Cucurbita  Pepo,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Cucurbitaceae. 

Origin. — The  plant  is  probably  indigenous  to  tropical  Asia  and  America,  and  is  often 
cultivated.  It  has  a rough  hollow  stem,  large  five-lobed,  serrate  leaves,  five-branched 
tendrils,  yellow  bell-shaped  monoecious  flowers,  and  usually  large  globular  or  oblong 
fruits. 

Description. — The  seeds  are  about  20  Mm.  (f  inch)  long,  flat,  broadly  ovate,  some- 
what oblique  at  the  pointed  end,  white  or  pale-yellowish,  nearly  smooth  or  finely  granular 
on  the  surface,  near  the  edge  and  parallel  with  it  marked  with  a shallow  groove,  and 
.p  0_.  frequently  covered  with  fragments  of  a white  membranous  tissue. 

The  embryo  consists  of  two  flat  cotyledons  of  the  shape  of  the 
seed,  and  of  a short  conical  radicle.  It  is  inodorous  and  has  a bland 
oily  taste. 

The  seeds  of  Cue.  melopepo,  Linne , the  squash , are  very  similar, 
rather  more  obtuse,  and  less  plainly  margined.  (See  also  p.  559.) 

Constituents. — Dorner  and  Wolkowich  (1870)  obtained  from 
pumpkin-seeds  44.5  per  cent,  of  slowly-drying  fixed  oil,  32.  dO 
1 "ongUudTnaiiy^ dVvfde(?d  starch,  and  traces  of  volatile  oil,  resin,  and  sugar.  They  aiso 
announced  the  discovery  of  an  alkaloid,  cucurbitine ; this,  how- 
ever could  not  be  found  by  Kopylow  (1876),  who  was  also  unable  to  establish  the 


PEPSINUM. 


1201 


presence  of  a glucoside.  He  proved  the  seeds  to  contain  free  fatty  acids,  and  the  bland 
oil  to  consist  of  the  glycerides  of  palmitic,  myristic,  and  oleic  acids.  Heckel  (1875) 
attributes  the  taenifuge  properties  to  a resin  contained  in  the  tegmen  (perisperm?)  of  the 
seed,  but  Yigier  (1876)  found  the  embryo  to  possess  the  activity.  Dr.  L.  Woltf  (1882) 
extracted  the  fixed  oil  by  petroleum  benzin,  and  treated  the  seeds  afterward  with  alcohol, 
ether,  or  chloroform,  obtaining  a greenish-brown  soft  resin  of  an  acrid  bitter  taste. 
Cadenberg  (1881)  obtained  from  the  seed  of  Cucurbita  maxima,  Duchesne , by  pressure, 
20  to  25  per  cent,  of  bland  yellow  fixed  oil,  an  aromatic  principle,  emulsin,  gum,  sugar, 
and  an  acid  soluble  in  alcohol  and  water.  When  triturated  with  water  the  seeds  yield  a 
white  and  bland  emulsion  ; the  emulsionizing  principle  is  probably  a protein  compound. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparation. — Extractum  peponis  fluidum. — Fluid  extract 
of  pumpkin-seed,  E. — It  was  recommended  by  Dr.  Woltf  (1882)  to  be  prepared  with  alco- 
hol. like  other  fluid  extracts. 

Action  and  Uses. — Pumpkin-seeds  are  among  the  most  efficient  remedies  for  tape- 
worm. Originally  referred  to  as  a vermifuge  in  the  last  century,  it  is  only  within  a com- 
paratively few  years  that  their  efficiency  has  been  established  by  numerous  and  trust- 
worthy witnesses,  notwithstanding  their  neglect  by  most  writers  on  helminthology.  It 
was  stated  in  1878  that  the  people  in  Northern  Italy  are  in  the  habit  of  using  them  to 
expel  taeniae  (Broking).  The  remedy  has  the  advantage  of  being  free  from  any  unpleas- 
ant taste  or  harsh  mode  of  action.  According  to  Heckel,  the  taenifuge  virtues  reside  in 
the  perisperm.  Berenger-Feraud,  who  made  comparative  trials  of  numerous  vermifuges, 
has  declared  pumpkin-seed  to  be  one  of  the  least  reliable  for  expelling  unarmed  taeniae 
(Bull,  de  Therap .,  xcix.  57  ; ciii.  104).  In  a later  clinical  study  he  states  that  C.  pepo 
has  no  taenifuge  power,  and  that  C.  maxima  possesses  it  only  in  an  inferior  degree,  and  is 
at  the  same  time  apt  to  occasion  disgust,  nausea  and  vomiting  (ibid,  cxvii,  101).  The  offen- 
sive qualities  may  have  been  due  to  the  “ rum  or  Chartreuse  ” mixed  with  the  medicine. 
The  fixed  oil  of  the  seeds,  extracted  by  ether,  has  been  used  successfully  in  the  dose  of 
Gin.  16  (^ss,)  repeated  in  two  hours,  and  followed  in  two  hours  more  by  a dose  of  castor 
oil.  For  administration,  Gm.  64.-128  (gii— iv.)  of  fresh  pumpkin-seeds  should  be  beaten 
into  a paste  with  finely-powdered  sugar  and  diluted  with  water  or  milk.  The  night  before 
using  the  emulsion,  and  early  the  following  morning  also  it  has  been  recommended  to 
administer  a large  saline  purgative  for  the  purpose  of  washing  away  the  mucus  and 
other  intestinal  contents  that  protect  the  taenia.  The  emulsion,  to  the  amount  of  a pint, 
should  be  taken  in  three  doses  at  intervals  of  about  two  hours,  beginning  at  ten  oclock, 
the  patient  remaining  very  still  in  bed  to  prevent  vomiting  (Squibb,  Ephemeris , i.  172). 
Three  or  four  hours  later  1 or  2 tablespoonfuls  of  castor  oil  should  be  administered. 
Before  taking  the  medicine  he  should  fast  for  twenty-four  hours.  A fluid  extract  has 
also  been  used.  The  same  treatment  has  been  recommended  for  lumbricoid  worms. 

PEPSINUM,  U.  S.,  P.  G, — Pepsin. 

Pepsin , Br.  ; Pepsina , Fr.  Cod.  ; Pepsine,  Fr.  ; Pepsin , G. 

A proteolytic  ferment  or  enzyme  obtained  from  the  glandular  layer  of  fresh  stomachs 
from  healthy  pigs,  and  capable  of  digesting  not  less  than  three  thousand  times  its  own 
weight  of  freshly  coagulated  and  disintegrated  egg  albumen,  when  tested  by  the  pro- 
cess given  below.  If  it  be  desired  to  use  a diluent  for  reducing  pepsin  of  a higher 
digestive  power  to  that  required  by  the  Pharmacopoeia,  sugar  of  milk  should  be  em- 
ployed for  that  purpose. — U.  S. 

A preparation  of  the  mucous  lining  of  the  fresh  and  healthy  stomach  of  the  pig,  sheep, 
or  calf. — Br. 

History. — Pepsin  was  discovered  in  1836  by  Schwann,  after  Eberle  had  furnished 
proof  that  digestion  of  food  in  the  stomach  is  due  neither  to  the  mechanical  action  of  the 
mucous  membranes  nor  to  the  solvent  action  of  acids,  but  is  dependent  upon  some  unor- 
ganized ferment  present  in  the  gastric  juice  ; this  ferment  was  determined  by  Schwann 
and  named  pepsin,  from  the  Greek  word  n£<pt$  (digestion).  Pepsin  is  a secretory  pro- 
duct of  certain  glands  imbedded  in  the  tissue  of  the  inner  coating  of  the  stomach,  but  has 
also  been  found  in  muscular  tissue,  urine,  brain,  and  the  mucous  membrane  of  the  intes- 
tines. True  or  active  pepsin  probably  does  not  exist  at  all  times  in  the  gastric  juice,  but 
is  formed  by  the  action  of  hydrochloric  acid  and  chlorides  from  a mother  substance  known 
as  pepsinogen  as  the  digestive  functions  of  the  stomach  may  require  ; in  support  of  this 
theory  we  find  that  glycerin  will  abstract  increased  quantities  of  pepsin  from  the  mucous 
membrane  of  the  stomach  after  this  has  been  treated  with  0.2  per  cent,  hydrochloric  acid 


1202 


PEPSIN  UM. 


or  1.0  per  cent,  sodium  chloride  solution.  The  use  of  pepsin  in  medicine  is  mainly  due 
to  the  efforts  of  Dr.  Corvisart,  court  physician  to  the  Emperor  Napoleon  III.,  but  the 
quality  of  the  commercial  article  has  been  vastly  improved  since  that  time  : to  the  perse- 
verance and  energy  of  American  pharmacists  are  due  the  improvements  in  the  mode  of  manu- 
facturing pepsin  and  the  wonderful  increase  in  digestive  power  of  the  commercial  article. 

Preparation. — The  stomach  of  one  of  these  animals  recently  killed  having  been  cut 
open  and  laid  on  a board  with  the  inner  surface  upward,  any  adhering  portions  of  food, 
dirt,  or  other  impurity  are  to  be  removed  and  the  exposed  surface  slightly  washed  with 
cold  water ; the  cleansed  mucous  membrane  is  then  to  be  scraped  with  a blunt  knife  or 
other  suitable  instrument,  and  the  viscid  pulp  thus  obtained  is  to  be  immediately  spread 
over  the  surface  of  glass  or  glazed  earthenware  and  quickly  dried  at  a temperature  not 
exceeding  100°  F.  The  dried  residue  is  to  be  reduced  to  powder  and  preserved  in  a 
stoppered  bottle. — Br. 

This  process  is  the  same  as  that  suggested  by  Dr.  Lionel  Beal,  the  product  consisting 
merely  of  the  carefully  dried  mucous  membrane  of  the  stomach.  The  U.  S.  and  German 
Pharmacopoeias  give  no  process  for  the  manufacture  of  pepsin,  recognizing  any  prepara- 
tion that  comes  up  to  the  official  requirements.  The  French  Codex  follows  the  plan  of 
M.  Boudault  which  directs  that  the  mucous  membrane  of  sheep  stomachs  shall  be  mace- 
rated for  two  hours  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  the  strained  liquid  to  be  precipitated  with  lead 
acetate,  the  precipitate  washed,  then  diffused  in  water,  and  decomposed  by  hydrogen  sul- 
phide ; the  liquid  is  rapidly  filtered,  and  evaporated  below  45°  C.  (113°  F.)  in  very  shal- 
low vessels  to  a brownish-yellow  firm  mass.  Boudault  added  starch  to  the  evaporated 
liquid  before  it  had  reached  dryness,  and  at  times  also  added  lactic  acid  ; Hottot  recom- 
mended the  precipitation  of  the  pepsin  by  sodium  sulphate  and  its  drying  so  as  to  form 
pale-brown  scales.  Lamatch’s  German  pepsin  is  obtained  by  triturating  the  mucous 
membrane  of  the  stomach  with  clean  dry  sand,  filtering  the  liquid  obtained,  and  drying 
this  in  thin  layers  at  a temperature  of  50°  C.  (104°  F.).  In  this  country  two  kinds  of 
pepsin  are  manufactured,  known  respectively  as  precipitated  pepsin  and  soluble  or  scale 
pepsin  ; the  former  is  made  by  the  method  recommended  by  E.  Scheffer  in  1872,  and  con- 
sists in  precipitating  an  acid  infusion  of  clean  mucous  membrane  of  hog  stomach  (pre- 
pared cold)  by  a saturated  solution  of  sodium  chloride,  redissolving  the  precipitate  in  acid 
water,  reprecipitating  with  salt  in  order  to  purify  the  pepsin,  and  finally  drying  at  or 
below  40°  C.  (104°  F.).  (See  Amer.  Jour.  Pliar.  1872.)  The  process  for  the  manufac- 
ture of  the  so-called  scale  or  peptone  pepsins  insures  an  increased  yield  of  product  and 
higher  digestive  power,  but  not  always  the  same  degree  of  purity  : it  consists  in  subject- 
ing the  well-cleaned  mucous  membranes  of  animal  stomachs,  after  being  thoroughly  minced 
by  machinery,  to  a process  of  self-digestion  in  water  acidified  by  hydrochloric  acid  at  a 
temperature  of  38°-45°  C.  (100.4°-113°  F.),  until  the  whole  mass  is  converted  into  a 
uniform  transparent  glairy  fluid.  This  is  allowed  to  cool  and  deposit  over  night  after  an 
addition  of  chloroform  or  sulphurous  acid  solution,  which  prevents  putrefaction  and  in 
nowise  interferes  with  the  activity  of  the  pepsin  ; the  liquid  is  carefully  strained,  concen- 
trated in  a vacuum  apparatus  to  a syrupy  consistence,  and  spread  upon  plates  of  glass, 
where  it  is  allowed  to  scale  in  suitable  dust-free  rooms.  Pepsin  thus  prepared  always 
contains  mucus,  peptones,  and  syntonin,  while  that  prepared  by  the  Scheffer  method  is 
contaminated  with  salt  and  some  inert  albuminous  matter.  In  1891  a process  was  pat- 
ented in  this  country  and  in  England  combining  the  advantages  of  the  two  preceding  pro- 
cesses. The  essential  features  are  as  follows  : the  well-cleansed  aud  minced  mucous  mem- 
branes are  brought  to  solution  by  digesting  with  acidulated  water,  the  solution  being 
clarified  after  addition  of  sulphurous  acid  ; the  clear  liquid  is  separated  from  the  deposit, 
and  then  precipitated  by  saturating  at  a higher  temperature  with  sodium  sulphate, 
whereby  the  pepsin  is  deposited,  while  the  peptone  remains  in  solution.  The  precipitated 
pepsin  is  dissolved  in  weak  hydrochloric  acid  and  subjected  to  dialysis,  which  removes 
the  sodium  sulphate  and  remaining  peptones,  after  which  the  residual  solution  is  con- 
centrated at  a low  temperature  and  dried  on  plates  of  glass.  The  sodium  sulphate  is  not 
lost  in  the  process,  but  obtained  from  the  peptone  solution  by  recrystallization. 

Sellden  (1873)  observed  that  the  mucous  membrane  is  not  deprived  of  pepsin  by 
maceration  in  acidulated  water,  but  that  by  digestion  at  37°  C.  (98.6°  F.)  about  double 
the  amount  of  pepsin  is  obtained ; the  mother-liquor  from  the  precipitated  pepsin,  after 
having  been  deprived  of  salt  byT  dialysis,  possesses  only  very  slight  digestive  properties. 
That  pepsin  exists  partly  in  the  stomach  in  an  insoluble  form  has  also  been  demonstrated 
by  Bechamp  and  by  Gautier  (1882)  ; the  insoluble  granules,  termed  microzimes , gradually 
dissolve  in  water  on  digestion. 


PEPSIN  UM. 


1203 


Properties. — The  different  pharmacopoeias  ascribe  the  following  properties  to 
pepsin  : 

“ A fine,  white,  or  yellowish-white,  amorphous  powder,  or  thin,  pale  yellow  or  yellowish, 
transparent  or  translucent  grains  or  scales,  free  from  any  offensive  odor,  and  having  a 
mildly  acidulous  or  slightly  saline  taste,  usually  followed  by  a suggestion  of  bitterness. 
It  slowly  abstracts  moisture  when  exposed  to  the  air.  Soluble,  or  for  the  most  part 
soluble,  in  about  100  parts  of  water,  with  more  or  less  opalescence  ; more  soluble  in 
water  acidulated  with  hydrochloric  acid  ; insoluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  or  chloroform.  On 
heating  a solution  of  pepsin  in  acidulated  water  to  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  it  becomes  milky, 
or  yields  a light,  flocculent  precipitate,  and  loses  all  proteolytic  power.  In  a dry  state  it 
can  endure  this  temperature  without  injury.  Pepsin  usually  has  a slightly  acid  reaction. 
It  may  be  neutral,  but  should  never  be  alkaline/’ — TJ.  S. 

‘‘Alight  yellowish-brown  powder,  having  a faint  but  not  disagreeable  odor  and  a 
slightly  saline  taste,  without  any  indication  of  putrescence.  Very  little  soluble  in  water 
or  spirit.” — Br. 

“ A fine,  almost  white,  slightly  hygroscopic  powder,  having  a peculiar  bread-like  odor 
and  a sweetish,  afterward  bitter  taste.  1 part  forms  with  100  parts  of  water  a faintly 
opalescent  solution  of  very  slightly  acid  reaction.” — P.  G. 

The  greater  the  proportion  of  peptone  present  in  pepsin  the  more  rapidly  does  it  absorb 
moisture  from  the  air,  and  the  greater  the  absence  of  mucus  the  less  unpleasant  will  be 
the  odor  and  the  more  perfectly  clear  will  be  the  solution  of  pepsin  in  water,  especially 
if  the  water  be  acidulated  with  acetic  acid.  Except  in  minute  quantities  sodium  chloride 
impairs  the  activity  of  pepsin  ; the  same  is  true  of  alcohol.  An  aqueous  solution  of 
pepsin  will  decompose  in  a short  time  ; after  addition  of  hydrochloric  acid  it  remains 
clear,  but  gradually  loses  its  effects  on  albumen.  Glycerin,  on  the  other  hand,  preserves 
its  virtues.  Tannin  and  the  alkali  carbonates  and  bicarbonates  inhibit  the  proteolytic 
action  of  pepsin. 

Tests. — Pepsin  exposed  on  a watch-glass  to  the  air,  even  in  damp  weather,  should 
not  become  sticky  in  the  course  of  a few  hours,  showing  the  absence  of  an  undue  amount 
of  peptone.  It  should  form  with  distilled  water  an  almost  clear  solution,  which  is  not 
rendered  turbid  by  the  addition  of  acetic  acid,  showing  the  absence  of  mucus.  (Pepsin 
made  by  Scheffer’s  process  never  yields  a clear  solution  with  water,  owing  to  the  presence 
of  syntonin  or  acid  albumen.)  It  should  be  free  from  any  disagreeable  or  ammoniacal 
odor,  due  to  the  presence  of  putrescible  matter.  A drop  of  tincture  of  iodine  added  to 
a solution  of  pepsin  should  not  develop  a blue  or  purplish-red  color,  showing  the  absence 
of  starch  and  dextrin. 

The  valuation  of  pepsin  is  directed  by  the  different  pharmacopoeias  as  follows : 

“ Prepare,  first,  the  following  three  solutions : A.  To  294  Cc.  of  water  add  G Cc.  of 
diluted  hydrochloric  acid.  B.  In  100  Cc.  of  solution  A.  dissolve  0.067  Gm.  of  the  pepsin 
to  be  tested.  C.  To  95  Cc.  of  solution  A,  brought  to  a temperature  of  40°  C.  (104° 
F.),  add  5 Cc.  of  solution  B.  The  resulting  100  Cc.  of  liquid  will  contain  2 Cc.  of 
diluted  hydrochloric  acid,  0.00335  Gm.  of  the  pepsin  to  be  tested,  and  98  Cc.  of  water. 
Immerse  and  keep  a fresh  hen’s  egg  during  fifteen  minutes  in  boiling  water ; then  remove 
it  and  place  it  into  cold  water.  When  it  is  cold  separate  the  white,  coagulated  albumen, 
and  rub  it  through  a clean  sieve  having  30  meshes  to  the  linear  inch,  lleject  the  first  por- 
tion passing  through  the  sieve.  Weigh  off  10  Gm.  of  the  second,  cleaner  portion,  place  it 
into  a flask  of  the  capacity  of  about  200  Cc.,  then  add  one-half  of  solution  6T,  and  shake 
well  so  as  to  distribute  the  coherent  albumen  evenly  throughout  the  liquid.  Then  add 
the  second  half  of  solution  (7,  and  shake  again,  guarding  against  loss.  Place  the  flask  in 
a water-bath,  or  thermostat,  kept  at  a temperature  of  38°  or  40°  C.  (100.4°  to  104°  F.), 
for  six  hours,  shaking  it  gently  every  fifteen  minutes.  At  the  expiration  of  this  time 
the  albumen  should  have  disappeared,  leaving  at  most  only  a few,  thin,  insoluble  flakes. 
(Trustworthy  results,  particularly  in  comparative  trials,  are  obtained  only,  if  the  tem- 
perature is  strictly  maintained  between  the  prescribed  limits,  and  if  the  contents  of  the 
flasks  are  agitated  uniformly,  and  in  equal  intervals  of  time.)  The  relative  proteolytic 
power  of  pepsin  stronger  or  weaker  than  that  described  above  may  be  determined  by 
ascertaining  through  repeated  trials,  how  much  of  solution  B made  up  to  100  Cc.,  with 
solution  A,  will  be  required  exactly  to  dissolve  10  Gm.  of  coagulated  and  disintegrated 
albumen  under  the  conditions  given  above.” — U S. 

“ 2 grains  of  pepsin  with  an  ounce  of  distilled  water,  to  which  5 minims  of  hydro- 
chloric acid  have  been  added,  form  a mixture  in  which  at  least  100  grains  of  hard-boiled 
white  of  egg,  passed  through  a No.  36  sieve,  will  dissolve  on  their  being  well  mixed, 


1204 


PEPSINUM. 


digested,  and  well  stirred  together  for  thirty  minutes  at  a temperature  of  54.4°  C.  (130° 
F.).” — Br. 

“ 10  Gm.  of  hard-boiled  egg-albumen,  passed  through  a No.  25  sieve,  added  to  100  Cc. 
of  water  and  10  drops  of  hydrochloric  acid,  should  be  dissolved  by  0.1  Gm.  of  pepsin 
when  digested  for  one  hour  at  45°  C.  (113°  F.),  with  frequent  agitation.” — P.  G. 

Although  the  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia  requires  of  pepsin  a digestive  power  of  only  1 to 
3000,  higher  grades  are  in  daily  use  by  physicians,  such  as  1 to  4000,  1 to  5000,  and  1 
to  6000.  In  addition,  manufacturers  of  pepsin  are  prepared  to  furnish  still  purer  products, 
capable  of  dissolving  eight,  ten,  fifteen,  and  even  twenty  thousand  times  their  weight  of 
hard-boiled  egg-albumen. 

Composition. — Absolutely  pure  pepsin  is  unknown  ; it  probably  contains  the  same 
elements  present  in  other  protein  compounds.  Syntonin  has  a similar  composition,  but  is 
insoluble  in  water  and  neutral  saline  solutions ; its  presence  in  pepsin  made  by  Scheffer’s 
process  was  shown  by  Sellden.  (1873). 

Allied  Substances  and  Products. — Gastric  Juice.  As  taken  from  the  stomach  and  filtered 
from  the  undigested  food,  this  forms  a clear,  transparent,  limpid  liquid  of  a pale-yellow  or 
brownish  color,  of  a slight  peculiar  odor,  and  of  a somewhat  saline  and  acidulous  taste.  It  is 
but  slightly  heavier  than  water,  and  has  a strongly  acid  reaction,  which  has  been  attributed  to 
free  lactic  and  hydrochloric  acids,  to  acid  phosphates,  and  to  acid  hippurates.  The  gastric  juice 
retains  its  digestive  power  for  a long  time,  even  after  it  has  become  mouldy.  Lehmann  obtained 
from  it  between  0.1  and  0.132  per  cent,  of  free  hydrochloric,  and  between  0.32  and  0.585  per  cent, 
of  lactic,  acid.  The  latter  was  observed  by  Richet  (1878)  to  be  identical  with  sarcolactic  acid  of 
horseflesh.  The  total  percentage  of  all  solids  contained  in  gastric  juice  is  between  1 and  1.5  per 
cent.,  but  varies  in  different  animals,  and  is  invariably  increased  by  admixture  with  saliva.  The 
chlorides  amount  to  nearly  J per  cent.,  among  them  small  quantities  of  ammonium  and  calcium 
chlorides.  Phosphates  of  calcium,  magnesium,  and  iron  amount  to  ^ or  l per  cent.,  but  alkali 
sulphates  and  phosphates  cannot  ordinarily  be  detected. 

Papain,  Papayotin,  is  obtained  from  the  milk-juice  of  the  melon  tree  or  papaw,  Carica  Papaya, 
Linne,  s.  Papaya  vulgaris,  De  Candolle ; nat.  ord.  Papayaceae.  The  tree  is  indigenous  to  tropical 
America,  but  now  is  cultivated  and  wild  in  most  tropical  countries.  The  trunk  is  mostly  undi- 
vided, 20  to  25  feet  (6  to  7.5  M ) high,  has  a crown  of  long-petioled,  large,  palmately-lobed  leaves, 
and  bears  as  fruit  fleshy  berries  which  under  cultivation  attain  a length  of  12  inches  (30  Cm.)  and 
a thickness  of  6 inches  (15  Cm.).  Peckolt  (1879)  found  the  fruit  to  contain  albuminoids,  resin, 
sugar,  fat,  tartrates,  citrates,  malates,  etc. ; the  milk-juice  of  the  unripe  fruit,  dissolved  in  water, 
yields  with  alcohol  papayotin  as  a snow-white,  inodorous,  and  nearly  tasteless  powder,  which  is 
very  soluble  in  water  and  glycerin,  but  insoluble  in  other  solvents.  Wurtz  and  Bouchut  (1879) 
named  it  papain.  Wittmack  (1878)  showed  that  the  filtered  milk-juice  is  not  coagulated  by  heat. 
The  residue  from  dialysis,  precipitated  by  alcohol,  gave  to  Wurtz  (1880)  a product  containing  only 
1 to  3 per  cent,  of  ash,  and  having  a composition  closely  resembling  that  of  albuminoids.  The 
aqueous  solution  foams  when  agitated,  and  is  not  precipitated  by  acetic  or  orthophosphoric  acid, 
but  nitric  or  hydrochloric  acid  yields  a precipitate  soluble  in  excess  of  acid.  Precipitates  are  also 
obtained  with  tannin,  picric  acid,  platinic  chloride,  corrosive  sublimate  (on  boiling),  copper  sul- 
phate (violet),  and  Millon’s  reagent  (yellowish-white,  on  heating  brick-red). 

Bouchut  (1880)  found  the  milk-juice  of  thejfo?  tree  to  contain  a similar  digestive  ferment. 

Peptone.  This  is  the  product  of  the  digestion  of  albuminoid  substances.  Peptones  are  readily 
soluble  in  water,  and  this  solution  is  not  disturbed  by  boiling  nor  by  the  addition  of  acids  or 
alkalies.  Neutral  solutions  of  peptone  are  precipitated  by  alcohol,  tannin,  and  by  various  salts. 
Acid  solutions  yield  precipitates  with  potassio-mercuric  iodide,  bromine-water,  and  other  group 
reagents  for  alkaloids,  but  these^  precipitates  are  soluble  in  excess  of  peptone  (Tanret,  1881). 
Brieger  (1883)  extracted  from  some  peptones  by  boiling  alcohol  an  amorphous  poisonous  alkaloid 
resembling  the  ptomaines  in  behavior.  Peptone  is  colored  yellow  by  nitric  acid,  and  gives  with 
Millon’s  reagent,  on  warming,  a red  precipitate,  and  with  Fehling’s  solution  violet-red  color. 

Peptone  is  readily  assimilated  by  the  intestinal  mucous  membrane.  Poehl  (1882)  states  that 
peptones  may  be  again  converted  into  albuminoids  by  the  influence  of  alcohol,  various  alkali 
salts,  and  other  agents  having  much  affinity  for  water.  Peptonized  meat  has  been  recommended 
as  a nutritive  medicine.  The  liquid  resulting  from  the  artificial  digestion  of  lean  meat  is  strained, 
neutralized  with  sodium  bicarbonate,  and  the  filtrate  evaporated  until  it  has  the  density  1.208, 
when  it  is  stated  to  contain  50  per  cent,  of  peptone  (Petit,  1881),  and  may  be  preserved  by  the 
addition  of  glycerin  and  combined  with  ferric  chloride,  mercuric  chloride,  and  other  salts.  By 
desiccating  its  concentrated  solution  upon  oiled  plates  peptone  may  be  obtained  in  scales  resem- 
bling gelatin,  which  are  hygroscopic,  but  not  deliquescent  on  exposure. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparations. — Pepsinum  saccharatum,  TJ.  S. ; Saccharated 
pepsin. — Take  of  Pepsin  10  Gm. ; Sugar  of  Milk,  recently  dried,  and  in  No.  30  powder, 
90  Gm.  Triturate  the  pepsin  with  the  sugar  of  milk  to  a fine  uniform  powder,  and  keep 
the  product  in  well-stoppered  bottles.  Saccharated  pepsin,  when  tested  by  the  process 
given  under  Pepsin,  with  the  modification  that  0.67  Gm.  of  it  are  to  be  taken  in  pre- 


PEPSINUM. 


1205 


paring  solution  B , should  digest  three  hundred  times  its  own  weight  of  freshly  coagu- 
lated and  disintegrated  albumen. 

Glyceritum  pepsini,  iV.  F. ; Glycerite  of  pepsin,  Glycerole  of  pepsin. — Dissolve  640 
o-rains  of  pepsin  in  a mixture  of  80  minims  of  hydrochloric  acid  and  7 fluidounces  of 
water;  add  120  grains  of  purified  talcum  and  filter,  adding  sufficient  water  through  the 
filter  to  make  8 fluidounces.  Finally,  add  to  the  filtrate  8 fluidounces  of  glycerin  and 

mix  well. 

Liquor  pepsini  aromaticus,  N.  F. ; Aromatic  solution  of  pepsin,  Aromatic  liquid 
pepsin. Mix  128  grains  of  pepsin  with  8 fluidounces  of  water  and  75  minims  of  hydro- 

chloric acid;  shake  until  dissolved;  then  add  120  grains  of  purified  talcum  and  2 drops 
of  oil  of  cinnamon,  2 drops  of  oil  of  pimento,  and  4 drops  of  oil  of  cloves,  previously 
dissolved  in  4 fluidrachms  of  alcohol ; mix  thoroughly,  filter  clear,  and  pass  enough 
water  through  the  filter  to  make  the  filtrate  measure  12  fluidounces.  Finally,  add  4 
fluidounces  of  glycerin  and  mix  well. 

Vinum  pepsini,  N.  F .,  P.  G. ; Wine  of  pepsin,  E.\  Pepsinwein,  G. — Mix  30  minims 
of  hydrochloric  acid,  360  minims  of  glycerin,  and  1 fluidounce  of  water ; add  128  grains 
of  pepsin  ; agitate  thoroughly  until  dissolved,  then  add  enough  white  wine  to  make  16 
fluidounces;  mix  intimately  with  120  grains  of  purified  talcum  and  filter. — N.  F.  Mix 
20  parts  of  pepsin  with  20  parts  each  of  glycerin  and  water  and  3 parts  of  hydrochloric 
acid ; set  the  mixture  aside  for  eight  days,  with  frequent  agitation  ; then  filter  and  add 
92  parts  of  syrup,  2 parts  of  tincture  of  orange-peel,  and  839  parts  of  sherry  wine  or  as 
much  as  may  be  necessary  to  bring  the  total  weight  up  to  1000  parts. — P.  G. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  effects  of  swallowing  5 drachms  of  pure  pepsin  are  said 
to  have  been  burning  pain  in  the  stomach,  nausea,  colic,  and  diarrhoea,  but  no  vomiting 
(Mecl.  Record , xxviii.  346).  On  the  admission  of  pepsin  into  medical  practice  it  soon 
acquired  a brilliant  reputation  as  a remedy  for  numberless  dyspeptic  ailments  indirectly 
engendered  by  the  wear  and  tear  of  civilized  life,  as  well  as  for  those  directly  produced 
by  certain  affections  of  the  structural  elements  of  the  stomach  itself.  The  introduction 
into  this  organ  from  without  of  a substance  necessary  to  the  solution  of  the  food,  but 
which  it  was  incompetent  to  furnish  by  its  own  power,  was  a happy  thought  of  the 
rational  therapeutist,  and  which  has  been  repeated  less  rationally  in  the  case  of  pancrea- 
tin.  The  practical  results  of  its  application  were  apparently,  and  at  first,  as  flattering  as 
possible ; but  confidence  in  the  remedy  began  to  decline  when  it  became  certain  that 
nearly  all  of  the  numerous  preparations  of  pepsin  were  absolutely  inert  intrinsically,  or 
had  become  so  from  the  changes  induced  by  time  or  by  the  various  substances  associated 
with  the  pepsin  they  originally  contained.  It  is  unnecessary  to  describe  in  detail  the 
various  dyspeptic  disorders  which  might  be  profitably  treated  by  a really  active  prepara- 
tion of  pepsin : it  will  suffice  to  say  that,  besides  those  already  referred  to,  there  is  the 
common  gastric  derangement  of  infants  and  of  children  during  the  period  of  dentition, 
induced  usually  by  the  pain  and  irritation  of  this  process,  which  being  duly  corrected, 
the  patients  are  enabled  to  bear  with  comparatively  slight  disorder  of  function  the  con- 
tinued action  of  the  disturbing  cause.  Other  causes  besides  teething  may  occasion  the 
same  condition,  such  as  unwholesome  air  and  food.  Under  the  use  of  pepsin  sometimes 
the  vomiting  and  diarrhoea  cease,  the  abdominal  distension  subsides,  and  the  increased 
flesh  and  improved  complexion  testify  to  the  more  complete  assimilation  of  the  food. 
In  numerous  cases  occurring  during  convalescence  from  exhausting  acute  diseases,  and 
in  the  course  of  chronic  affections,  more  or  less  of  the  same  effect  may  be  hoped  for 
from  the  administration  of  pepsin  in  a really  active  condition.  Still,  we  believe  that 
general  clinical  experience  will  support  the  deduction  of  Dana  from  his  experiments, 
“ that  good  pepsin  has  a real  though  not  a great  medicinal  value”  (Amer.  Jour,  of  Med. 
Sci.j  Oct.  1882,  p.  347).  It  is  at  best  only  a transient  substitute  for  the  gastric  juices ; 
its  continued  use  enfeebles  the  digestion.  It  seems  probable  that  pepsin  prepares  albu- 
minous compounds  for  absorption,  for  Catillon  fed  a dog  by  the  rectum  with  eggs  pre- 
pared with  pepsin,  and  the  animal  retained  its  weight  and  temperature  during  the  two 
months  that  the  experiment  continued.  As  soon  as  the  pepsin  was  omitted  it  began  to 
lose  flesh  and  heat  (Bull,  de  Therap .,  c.  233).  There  is  much  doubt  entertained  by 
competent  authorities  whether  pepsin  is  really  the  active  agent  in  cases  where  it  seems 
to  do  good,  and  not  the  hydrochloric  acid  with  which  it  is  generally  administered.  It  is 
claimed  that  pepsin  is  a valuable  remedy  in  dyspeptic  forms  of  diabetes.  It  is  unneces- 
sary to  do  more  than  mention  that  pepsin  has  been  applied  locally  to  dissolve  diphtheritic 
membrane,  and  also  coagulated  blood  retained  in  the  urinary  bladder. 

Perfectly  fresh  pepsin  may  be  prescribed  in  doses  of  about  Gm.  0.60  (gr.  x)  imme- 


1206 


PEPSIN  UM. 


diately  before  or  after  each  meal  in  water  acidulated  with  muriatic  acid.  It  may  also 
be  mixed  with  arrowroot  and  given  in  a little  sweetened  water.  Liebreich  has  found  that 
to  preserve  the  ferment  of  pepsin  in  the  liquid  state  glycerin  is  the  only  reliable  agent. 

Carica  papaya  fruit  and  the  tree  producing  it  were  described  as  long  ago  as  1665 
by  Rochefort  (Hist.  nat.  des  Antilles , etc.,  2eme  ed.,  p.  66).  His  statement  is  that  it 
strengthens  the  stomach  and  promotes  digestion.  In  the  History  of  Barbadoes , by  the 
Rev.  Griffith  Hughes,  pp.  181, 182  (London,  1750),  the  author,  speaking  of  two  varieties 
of  papaw,  says : “Both  these  fruits,  especially  the  round  sort,  are  likewise  when  near 
ripe  boiled  and  eaten  with  any  kind  of  flesh  meat,  and  esteemed  wholesome  if  they  are 
cleansed  of  the  milky  corrosive  juice  they  contain  and  eaten  but  seldom.  This  juice  is 
of  so  penetrating  a nature  that  if  this  unripe  fruit  when  unpeeled  is  boiled  with  the 
toughest  old  salt  meat,  it  will  soon  make  it  soft  and  tender,  and  if  hogs  are  for  any  con- 
siderable time  fed  with  it,  especially  raw,  it  is  said  it  will  wear  off  all  the  mucous  slimy 
matter  which  covers  the  inside  of  the  guts,  and  would  in  time,  if  not  prevented  by  a 
change  of  food,  entirely  lacerate  them.  I know  of  no  physical  virtue  in  any  part  of  this 
tree,  unless  that  the  milky  juice  of  the  popo  is  sometimes  made  use  of  to  cure  ringworms 
and  such  cutaneous  eruptions.”  Rossbach,  who  has  furnished  the  amplest  account  of 
the  matter  (Zeitsch.  f Min.  Med.,  vi.  527),  cites  from  Holder  that  when  swine  are  fed 
upon  the  fruit,  their  flesh  becomes  too  soft  for  salting ; from  Karsten,  that  in  the  higher 
regions  of  Quito,  where  water  boils  below  212°  F.,  papaw-juice  is  used  to  supplement 
the  action  of  hot  water  by  softening  the  meat ; and  from  Schacht,  that  flesh  enveloped 
in  papaw-leaves  for  a few  hours  becomes  tender.  Roy  found  that  the  juice  dissolved 
raw  meat  and  also  coagulated  albumen  more  powerfully  than  the  gastric  juice.  Witt- 
mack  saw  fresh  beef  disintegrated  and  dissolved  by  a weak  solution  of  the  juice  at  a 
temperature  lower  than  the  boiling-point  of  water.  Under  like  conditions  pepsin,  unless 
acidulated,  exhibited  no  solvent  power  at  all.  Rapid  cooking  arrested  the  action  of  the 
juice  upon  animal  tissues.  The  minutest  portion  of  it  coagulated  milk.  Wurtz  and 
Bouchut  ( Compte  rendu  des  Seances  de  V Acad,  des  Set .,  1879,  p.  425)  found  that 
papaine,  the  nitrogenous  substance  precipitated  by  alcohol  from  papaw-juice,  dissolves 
from  one  thousand  to  two  thousand  times  its  weight  of  fibrin,  and  differs  from  pepsin  in 
doing  so  not  only  in  a faintly  acid  solution,  but  even  in  a neutral  or  slightly  alkaline 
liquid.  The  presence  or  absence  of  bacteria  did  not  affect  the  solvent  power  of  the  prep- 
aration, and  when  cold  it  seemed  as  active  as  when  warm.  The  addition  of  muriatic, 
carbolic,  or  salicylic  acid  lessened  the  solvent  power  of  papayotin.  “ Papoid,”  says 
Finkler,  “ is  an  albuminous  body  which  under  certain  conditions  can  convert  albumen 
into  peptone.  It  is  more  energetic  than  pepsin  in  this  respect,  especially  in  alkaline  or 
neutral  solutions,  while  pepsin  acts  only  in  acid  ones.”  Ruttan  has  made  a similar 
statement  ( Therap . Gaz.,  xi.  517  ; Med.  News , lii.  27).  The  experiments  of  Rossbach 
show  that  in  man  and  animals  this  constituent  does  not  act  upon  normal  living  organs, 
but  that  when  injected  subcutaneously  it  occasions  more  or  less  softening  of  the  connect- 
ive tissue.  When  thrown  into  the  blood-vessels,  it  instantly  disorganizes  the  blood  and 
consequently  arrests  the  heart.  The  flesh  of  animals  killed  in  this  manner  rapidly  under- 
goes putrefaction. 

In  regard  to  the  medicinal  uses  of  papaw  products,  Kohts  and  Asch  in  1882  ( Zeitsch . 
f.  Klin.  Med.  v.  558)  stated  that  a 5 per  cent,  solution  of  papayotin  softens  and  com- 
pletely dissolves  diphtheritic  false  membranes  in  the  nose,  pharynx,  or  trachea,  provided 
that  the  preparation  be  genuine  and  the  solution  thoroughly  applied  at  least  every  half 
hour.  The  infiltrated  form  of  diphtheria  is,  however,  not  amenable  to  this  treatment.  In 
the  Medical  Society  of  Berlin  discussion  did  not  bring  about  an  agreement  as  to  the  value 
of  the  application  ( Deutsche  Med.  Wochensch , 1883,  p.  327).  It  seems  that  only  well- 
tested  and  concentrated  solutions  applied  every  few  minutes  can  be  relied  upon  to  dis- 
solve the  exudation.  Among  later  reports  attesting  its  efficacy  may  be  mentioned  those 
of  Croner  (Med.  News , xliii.  24),  Jacobi  (Therap.  Gaz .,  x.  145),  Bruce  (Med,.  Record , 
xxxiv.  448);  Bauduy  (Jour.  Amer.  Med.  Assoc.,  ix.  705),  and  Ruttan  (Med.  News/  lii. 
521),  who  states  that  it  deodorizes  as  well  as  dissolves  the  exudation.  The  softening 
power  of  this  agent  has  been  applied  to  remove  the  crusts  of  eczema.  Morris  painted  the 
crusts  twice  a day  with  a solution  of  12  grs.  of  papaine  and  5 grs.  of  borax  in  2 drachms 
of  distilled  water  (British  Med.  Jour.,  May  20,  1882).  Fenwick,  and  also  Schwimmer, 
found  that  in  syphilitic  ulcers  of  the  tongue  and  throat  much  good  was  done  by 
applying  to  them  a paste  made  with  papaine,  glycerin,  water,  and  potassium  carbonate, 
by  using  lozenges  containing  papaine  gr.  £,  cocaine,  gr.  i,  potassium  bicarbonate  gr.  b 
Johnston  (Edinb.  Med.  Jour.,  Jan.  1890)  employed  a 5 per  cent,  solution  of  papaine  to 


PERSIC  A. 


1207 


cleanse  the  auditory  canal  of  obstructing  indurated  secretions.  Injections  of  papayotin 
have  been  made  in  cancerous  tumors  of  the  skin  and  superficial  glands,  but  the  action  is 
said  to  be  painful  and  slow.  Morris  applied  it  to  remove  “ tubercles  of  irritation  from 
the  hands  of  a mortuary  porter,”  and  Cox  to  heal  sinuses.  As  long  ago  as  1802,  Sprengel 
described  the  virtues  of  papaw-juice  in  destroying  taeniae  and  lumbricoid  worms.  Castor 
oil  was  administered  to  expel  the  dead  parasites.  It  has  been  used  in  the  same  forms  of 
dyspepsia  as  pepsine — i.  e.  in  gastric  atony,  muscular  or  glandular,  with  acid  regurgita- 
tion and  flatulence.  Hersehell  has  described  a gastric  catarrh,  or  biliousness,  as  amenable 
to  this  medicine,  but  the  enumerated  symptons  are  merely^ those  of  constipation  from 
intestinal  atony.  In  Australia  a liquid  extract  of  Carica  papaya,  a tincture,  and  a gelat- 
inous extract  have  been  used  both  internally  and  topically  to  stimulate  the  mammary 
secretion.  It  is  also  said  to  be  an  abortifacient  ( Therap . Gaz .,  xi.  318). 

Ingluvin  is  obtained  from  the  gizzard  of  the  domestic  fowl,  and  is  supposed  to  promote 
digestion  in  the  same  manner  as  pepsin.  From  ancient  times  it  has  been  employed  in 
China  for  that  purpose,  and  has  long  been  a popular  medicine  in  the  Western  World. 
But  Dr.  Edes  and  Dr.  Ellis  both  failed  to  discover  that  it  displayed  any  such  action  upon 
albumen  as  pepsin  exerts  ( Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  April,  1883,  p.  381).  In  1877 
the  attention  of  physicians  was  called  to  it  by  Dr.  Shelley  ( Phila . Med.  and  Sury.  Reporter , 
June,  1877)  as  a remedy  for  nausea  and  dyspepsia  associated  with  debility  (Kennedy, 
Phila.  Med.  Times , x.  104).  In  doses  of  8 to  15  grains  before  meals  it  has  suspended  the 
vomiting  of  pregnancy  ( Med . Record , xii.  664  ; Practitioner , xxvi.  43  ; Med.  News,  liv.  187). 
Dr.  Dobbs  advises  that  it  be  given  very  early  in  the  morning  in  the  dose  of  10  grains,  at 
eight  or  nine  o’clock  15  grains  more,  and  that  an  hour  later  a light  breakfast  be  taken, 
and  that  this  administration  be  continued  for  several  days,  while  the  dose  is  increased  to 
Cm.  1.30  (gr.  xx.)  (Brit.  Med.  Jour.,  1881,  i.  86).  Sawyer  recommends  that  in  atonic 
dyspepsia  it  be  given  in  doses  of  Grin.  0.60  (gr.  x.)  thrice  daily,  in  powder  sprinkled  on 
bread,  immediately  after  meals  ( Practitioner , xxvi.  43). 

PERSICA.— Peach. 

Peclier,  Fr.  Cod. ; Pfirsich,  Gr.  ; Melocoton , Durazno,  Sp. 

Persica  vulgaris,  De  Candolle , Amygdalus  Persica,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Rosaceae,  Amygdaleae. 

Description. — The  peach  tree  is  indigenous  to  South-western  Asia,  and  is  at  present 
extensively  cultivated  in  most  temperate  countries.  It  is  of  medium  size,  and  has  a 
nearly  smooth  brown  bark  and  spreading  branches.  The  leaves  are  alternate,  short  petio- 
late,  lanceolate,  pointed,  closely  serrate,  green,  and  smooth  on  both  sides.  The  flowers 
appear  in  April,  are  axillary,  have  a bell-shaped  and  five-cleft  calyx,  five  ovate,  reddish 
petals,  about  twenty-five  stamens,  and  a single  ovary  developing  into  a sub-globular 
drupe,  with  a hard  and  firm  putamen  and  containing  a seed  resembling  the  almond.  The 
leaves,  flowers,  and  seeds  when  bruised  exhale  a bitter-almond  odor  and  have  a bitter  taste. 

Constituents. — The  young  branches, ‘leaves,  flowers,  and  seeds,  after  maceration  in 
water  and  distillation,  yield  a volatile  oil  which  is  chemically  identical  with  oil  of  bitter 
almond.  Greiseler  (1840)  proved  the  presence  of  about  3 per  cent,  of  crystallizable 
amygdalin  in  the  seeds.  The  fixed  oil  of  the  latter  is  bland,  and  resembles  expressed  oil 
of  almond. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  bark,  the  leaves,  the  kernels,  and  even  the  flowers,  are 
endowed  with  active  properties,  which  they  owe  in  part  to  hydrocyanic  acid.  The  flowers 
are  chiefly  laxative,  and  the  leaves  are  not  destitute  of  this  quality.  Indeed,  they  have 
been  used  as  a substitute  for  manna,  and  especially  for  their  vermifuge  effect;  they  have 
also  been  reputed  to  cure  intermittent  fevers  and  to  allay  the  pain  of  nephritic  colic , as  well 
as  to  promote  the  discharge  of  calculi  by  causing  diuresis.  Bruised  and  applied  to  the  abdo- 
men, they  are  said  to  relieve  colic  produced  by  indigestion.  They  are  also  reported  to 
have  cured  whooping  cough.  They  have  been  applied  to  arrest  slight  haemorrhages.  Peach- 
kernels  have  frequently  produced  poisonous  effects.  A child  three  years  old  who  had 
eaten  a quantity  of  them  became  insensible,  with  slow,  deep,  sobbing  respiration,  slight 
twitching  of  the  mouth,  icy-cold  extremities,  lividity  of  the  finger-nails,  and  dilated 
pupils.  It  was  restored  by  an  emetic  (Keating).  In  other  cases  active  vomiting  and 
purging,  with  convulsions,  have  been  observed.  The  possibility  of  these  effects  having 
resulted  from  the  indigestibility  of  the  kernels  should  not  be  overlooked.  The  leaves, 
and  also  the  flowers,  may  be  prescribed  in  an  infusion,  and  a syrup  prepared  from  them 
or  from  the  bark  has  also  been  used. 


1208 


PETROLATUM. 


PETROLATUM,  V.  S. — Petrolatum. 

The  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia  recognizes  three  varieties  of  petrolatum,  which  are  officially 
designated  as  Petrolatum  Liquidum,  P.  Molle,  and  P.  Spissum  ; they  are  all  mixtures  of 
hydrocarbons,  chiefly  of  the  marsh-gas  series,  and  are  obtained  by  distilling  off  the 
lighter  and  more  volatile  portions  from  petroleum  until  the  residue  has  reached  the 
desired  consistence  or  has  attained  the  desired  melting  point,  and  then  purifying  it  by 
filtration  through  a long  column  of  well-dried  granular  bone-black,  the  temperature  being 
kept  at  from  40°-50°  C.  (104°-122°  F.),  or  even  higher,  so  as  to  keep  the  product  in  a 
melted  condition  while  percolating  through  the  charcoal.  The  first  portion  of  the  perco- 
late is  colorless  or  nearly  so  ; the  subsequent  portions  are  more  colored.  The  bone-black 
retains  nearly  its  own  weight  of  the  soft  paraffin.  The  crude  paraffin  which  settles  in  the 
storage-tanks  of  coal  oil  is  first  deprived  of  the  lighter  hydrocarbons  by  distillation,  and 
is  afterward  filtered  as  above.  Crude  paraffins  are  also  extensively  purified  by  treatment 
with  sulphuric  acid  and  subsequent  washing  with  water  and  caustic  soda  solution  before 
filtration  through  bone-black. 

Petrolatum  liquidum,  U.  S. ; Paraffinum  liquidum,  P.  G. ; Liquid  petrolatum,  E. ; 
Fliissiges  Paraffin,  G. 

u A colorless,  or  more  or  less  yellowish,  oily,  transparent  liquid,  without  odor  or  taste, 
or  giving  off,  at  most,  only  a faint  odor  of  petroleum  when  heated.  Specific  gravity, 
about  0.875  to  0.945  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.).  Insoluble  in  water;  scarcely  soluble  in  cold  or 
hot  alcohol  or  in  cold  absolute  alcohol  ; but  soluble  in  boiling  absolute  alcohol,  and  readily 
soluble  in  ether,  chloroform,  carbon  disulphide,  oil  of  turpentine,  benzin,  benzene,  and  fixed 
or  volatile  oils.  When  heated  on  platinum,  liquid  petrolatum  is  completely  volatilized,  , 
without  emitting  any  acrid  vapors.  The  alcoholic  solution  of  liquid  petrolatum  is  neutral 
to  litmus-paper.  If  5 Gm.  of  liquid  petrolatum  be  digested,  for  half  an  hour,  with  5 Gnu 
of  sodium  hydroxide  and  25  Cc.  of  water,  the  aqueous  layer  separated  and  supersaturated 
with  sulphuric  acid,  no  oily  substance  should  separate  (absence  of  fixed  oils  or  fats  of 
animal  or  vegetable  origin,  or  of  resin).  If  2 volumes  of  concentrated  sulphuric  acid  be 
added  to  1 volume  of  liquid  petrolatum,  melted  in  a test-tube  placed  in  hot  water,  and  the 
contents  occasionally  agitated  during  fifteen  minutes,  the  acid  should  not  acquire  a deeper 
tint  than  brown,  nor  lose  its  transparency  (limit  of  readily  carbonized  organic  impuri- 
ties).”—^ S. 

The  Germ.  Pharm.  demands  a colorless,  clear,  non-fluorescent,  odorless  and  tasteless, 
oil-like  liquid,  having  at  least  the  specific  gravity  0.880,  and  not  boiling  below  360°  C. 
(680°  F.). 

Petrolatum  molle,  U.  S.  ; Paraffinum  molle,  Br. ; Unguentum  paraffinum,  P.  G.; 
Paraffinum  unguinosum,  Adeps  petrolei. — Soft  petrolatum,  Soft  petroleum  ointment, 
Paraffin  jelly,  Soft  paraffin,  E. ; Paraflfinsalbe,  Paraffin-butter,  G. 

When  petrolatum  is  prescribed  or  ordered  without  further  specification,  soft  petrolatum 
(petrolatum  molle)  is  to  be  dispensed. — U.  S. 

11  A fat-like  mass,- of  about  the  consistence  cTf  ointment,  varying  from  white  to  yellowish 
or  yellow,  more  or  less  fluorescent  when  yellow,  especially  after  being  melted,  transparent 
in  thin  layers,  completely  amorphous,  and  without  odor  or  taste,  or  giving  off",  at  most, 
only  a faint  odor  of  petroleum  when  heated.  If  a portion  of  soft  petrolatum  be  liquefied 
and  brought  to  a temperature  of  60°  C.  (140°  F.),  it  will  have  a specific  gravity  of  about 
0.820  to  0.840.  The  melting-point  of  soft  petrolatum  ranges  from  about  40°  to  45°  C. 
(104°  to  113°  F.).  In  other  respects  soft  petrolatum  has  the  characteristics  and  should 
respond  to  the  tests  given  under  Liquid  Petrolatum.” — U.  S.  (See  Petrolatum  Liqui- 
dum.) 

Soft  paraffin,  Br .,  melts  at  35°-40°  C.  (95°-I05°  F.),  and  has  at  the  melting-point 
the  specific  gravity  0.840-0.870. 

Unguentum  paraffini,  P.  G. — Melt  together  solid  paraffin  1 part  and  liquid  paraffin 
4 parts.  This  is  somewhat  crystalline,  and  on  exposure  becomes  harder  from  the  slow 
evaporation  of  the  liquid  portion.  It  is  not  a suitable  substitute  for  petrolatum. 

Petrolatum  spissum,  U.  S. — Hard  petrolatum. 

“ A fat-like  mass,  of  about  the  consistence  of  cerate,  varying  from  white  to  yellowish 
or  yellow,  more  or  less  fluorescent  when  yellow,  especially  after  being  melted,  transpa- 
rent in  thin  layers,  completely  amorphous,  and  without  odor  or  taste,  or  giving  off  at 
most,  only  a faint  odor  of  petroleum  when  heated.  If  a portion  of  hard  petrolatum  be 
liquefied,  and  brought  to  a temperature  of  60°  C.  (142°  F.),  it  will  have  a specific  gravity 
of  about  0.820  to  0.850.  The  melting-point  of  hard  petrolatum  ranges  from  about  45 


PETROLEUM. 


1209 


I 


to  51°  C.  (113°  to  125°  F.).  In  other  respects  hard  petrolatum  has  the  characteristics 
and  should  respond  to  the  tests  given  under  Liquid  Petrolatum.” — U S.  (See  Petrola- 
tum Liquidum.) 

Action  and  Uses. — This  preparation  is  intended  to  be  used  as  a substitute  for 
lard  in  making  many  ointments,  and  for  oil  as  a protecting  and  lubricating  substance.  It 
is  absolutely  unirritating,  and  has  the  advantage  of  not  becoming  rancid  by  keeping.  As 
Randolph  has  shown,  it  is  valueless  as  a food-stuff. 

Ichthyol. — The  eulogies  of  this  preparation  published  by  Baumann  and  Schrotten, 
Unna,  v.  Hebra,  and  other  German  dermatologists  led  to  its  general  employment  in  dis- 
eases of  the  skin.  They  attributed  its  virtues  mainly  to  the  sulphur  in  its  composition 
(Lorenz,  Therap.  Gaz.,  xi.  693).  It  was  used  not  only  in  every  form  of  skin  disease 
proper,  including  lichen,  prurigo,  urticaria,  herpes  zoster,  etc.,  intertrigo,  erysipelas, 
variola,  but  also  for  wounds,  ulcers,  burns,  frostbite,  and  rheumatic  joints,  and  was  even 
given  internally  for  the  relief  of  laryngeal,  pharyngeal,  and  gastro-intestinal  disorders, 
and  extravagant  estimates  of  its  virtues  were  proclaimed  {Centralb.  f.  Ther .,  iv.  411).  It 
was  even  credited  with  removing  a lipoma  as  large  as  a pigeon’s  egg  ( Therap . Gaz.,  x. 
755)  when  applied  as  an  ammonium-ichthyo-sulphate  of  50  per  cent,  strength.  Like  other 
unctuous  substances,  it  was  found  a palliative  of  tonsillitis  when  applied  with  friction  to 
the  sides  of  the  neck.  Freund  claimed  for  it  a special  power  of  resolving  chronic  indu- 
rations of  the  pelvic  organs  when  topically  or  internally  administered  {Am.  Jour.  Med. 
Sci.,  June,  1890,  p.  617).  As  an  internal  medicine  v.  Nussbaum  proclaimed  its  virtues  in 
asthmatic  complaints,  digestive  derangements,  and  pelvic  neuralgia  resulting  from  con- 
gestion, as  well  as  “ neuralgia  of  the  bones,  joints,  and  muscles  ” {Bull,  de  Therap .,  cxiv. 
378).  Hoffman  and  Lange  lengthen  the  list  of  its  virtues  by  its  power  over  fermenta- 
tive dyspepsia,  comparable  to  that  of  carbolic  acid  {Therap.  Monatsh .,  iii.  218).  On  the 
other  hand,  not  a few  whose  testimony  is  quite  as  credible,  express  an  opposite  opinion 
{Boston.  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  Oct.  1888,  p.  384).  The  more  general  use  of  the  prepa- 
ration has  greatly  reduced  the  ground  of  its  remedial  claims.  Many  patients  found  its 
smell  and  taste  intolerable,  and  others  could  not  endure  a stronger  application  of  it  than 
a 10  per  cent,  ointment.  Dermatologists,  in  particular,  agreed  that  its  curative  action  was 
less  real  than  had  been  alleged.  (Compare  Elliott,  Med.  Record , xxxi.  321 ; Stelwagen, 
Jour.  Cutan.  and  Vener.  Bis.,  Nov.  1886.)  The  strength  of  ichthyol  ointments  varies 
from  5 to  50  per  cent.  Internally  it  has  been  given  in  capsules  containing  10  per  cent,  of 
ichthyol  in  solution  with  ether,  alcohol,  glycerin,  or  water,  and  to  the  extent  of  Gm.  0.20- 
0.67  (gr.  iij-x)  three  times  a day.  It  may  also  be  inhaled  from  a 25  per  cent,  watery 
solution  (Mays,  Med.  News , liii.  175).  (See  also  pp.  860,  861.) 

Thiol,  like  ichthyol,  is  a product  of  chemical  synthesis  and  has  identical  virtues,  but 
is  less  offensive.  It  has  been  applied  in  a vaseline  ointment  1 : 8,  and  also  given  internally 
in  2-grain  pills  three  times  a day  (Schwimmer,  Therap.  Monatsh .,  iv.  179). 

PETROLEUM. — Petroleum. 

Oleum  petrse. — Rock  oil , Coal  oil,  E.  ; Petrole , Huile  mineral,  Fr.  ; Steinol , Bergol , G. ; 
Petroleo,  Sp. 

Origin. — Petroleum  is  met  with  in  several  parts  of  North  America,  on  the  west  coast 
of  the  Caspian  Sea,  and  to  a limited  extent  in  most  European  countries.  It  oozes  from 
the  ground,  frequently  mixed  with  water,  but  is  obtained  in  largest  quantities  from  wells 
sunk  in  the  ground.  Its  formation  in  the  soil  has  been  the  subject  of  much  speculation. 
Most  frequently  it  is  assumed  to  be  produced  by  the  distillation  of  fossil  carbonized 
vegetable  or  animal  matter  under  high  pressure  ; but  theories  of  its  inorganic  origin, 
elevated  temperature,  and  considerable  pressure  being  amongst  the  physical  agencies,  have 
also  been  maintained.  Thus  Byasson  (1876)  refers  it  to  salt  water  charged  with  lime 
salts  coming  in  contact  with  metals  or  their  sulphurets  ; Mendelejeff  (1887)  to  water  and 
metallic  carbides  ; and  Ross  (1891)  to  limestone  (CaC03),  hydrogen  sulphide,  and  hydro- 
gen peroxide,  the  gases  being  of  volcanic  origin. 

Properties. — As  naturally  obtained,  petroleum  varies  in  consistence  from  thin  lim- 
pidity to  the  thickness  of  molasses  or  tar,  and  in  color  from  pale-yellow  to  blackish- 
brown,  usually  showing  a distinct  fluorescence.  Its  specific  gravity  is  generally  between 
0.8  and  0.9,  but  some  varieties  slightly  exceed  water  in  density.  The  heavier  and  dark- 
colored  kinds  yield,  on  rectification,  light  and  limpid  oils,  and  leave  a residue  consisting 
of  paraffin  and  solid  bitumen,  a variety  of  which  is  found  native  as  asphaltvm.  The  lat- 
ter is  black,  glossy,  and  brittle,  while  the  bituminous  residues  from  coal-oil  distillation 


1210 


PETROLEUM . 


are  less  glossy  and  scarcely  brittle  at  the  ordinary  temperature.  The  solid  as  well  as  the 
liquid  fractions  of  petroleum  are  inflammable  and  burn  with  a bright  sooty  flame  ; the 
vapors  of  the  more  volatile  kinds,  mixed  with  atmospheric  air,  are  highly  explosive. 

Barbadoes  tar  and  Seneca  oil  are  two  varieties  of  petroleum  which  were  formerly 
employed ; they  are  viscid  and  dark-colored,  the  last  named  lighter,  thinner,  and  of  a less 
disagreeable  odor  than  the  former. 

Constituents. — Petroleum  consists  of  a large  number  of  hydrocarbons,  belonging 
to  two  homologous  series — namely,  that  of  marsh  gas , of  the  general  formula  CnH2n+2 
(see  Paraffinum),  and  of  olefiant  gas  (olefin  or  ethylene  series),  having  the  formula  j 
CnH.in.  On  treating  petroleum  with  strong  sulphuric  acid  the  olefins,  coloring  matter,  j 
and  some  other  constituents  are  removed,  and  the  hydrocarbons  of  the  paraffin  series  left. 
The  hydrocarbons  of  both  series  exist  also  in  isomeric  modifications  which  differ  from  the  j 
normal  compounds  in  volatility  and  some  other  properties.  Those  containing  C4  and  less 
are  gases  at  the  ordinary  temperatures  ; the  relation  of  the  others  is  shown  by  the  follow- 
ing table  (see  also  Paraffinum)  : 


Normal. 

Iso. 

Normal. 

Iso. 

Pentane,  C5II12,  boils  at 

38°  C. 

30°  C. 

Pentene,  C5II10,  boils  at 

37°  C. 

35°  C. 

Hexane,  C6I1U,  “ 

70°  C. 

62°  C. 

Hexene,  C6II12,  “ 

70°  C. 

65°  C. 

Heptane,  C7II16,  “ 

98°  C. 

90°  C. 

Heptene,  C7IIU,  u 

100°  C. 



Octane,  C8II18,  11 

124°  C. 

118°  C. 

Octene,  C8lll6,  “ 

125°  C. 

— 

ese  compounds  are  to 

some  extent  separated  by  fractional  distillation. 

The  portion 

boiling  below  50°  C.  (122°  F.),  being  collected  by  itself,  constitutes  naphtha  or  gasolene , 
and  consists  almost  exclusively  of  pentane  and  pentene ; but  if  the  vapors  are  well  refrig- 
erated the  product  contains  also  butane , C4H10,  boiling  at  1°  C.  (33.8°  F.),  and  constitutes 
rhigolene,  which  requires  to  be  kept  in  strong  and  well-corked  bottles  and  in  a cool  place, 
since  it  evaporates  rapidly  at  the  common  temperature.  The  naphtha  freed  from  the  low- 
boiling  hydrocarbons  is  commercially  known  as  benzin  or  petroleum  benzin  (see  page  333);  ■ 

its  specific  gravity  is  about  .67.  The  portion  boiling  at  a higher  temperature  is  sepa- 
rately collected  and  furnishes  kerosene,  photogene,  or  coal  oil,  which  is  largely  emploved 
for  illuminating  purposes  ; its  safety  for  that  use  depends  upon  the  absence  of  the  low- 
boiling  hydrocarbons.  At  a still  higher  temperature  paraffin  oils,  paraffin  jelly,  and 
paraffin  wax  (see  Paraffinum)  pass  over,  and  the  residue  left  in  the  still  at  a temper- 
ature of  about  300°  C.  (572°  F.)  constitutes  the  ordinary  asphaltum  or  bitumen.  Hep- 
tane was  ascertained  by  Thorpe  (1879)  to  be  a constituent  of  the  volatile  oil  of  Pinus 
Sabiana  (see  page  1158). 

Oleum  petr^e  italicum,  s.  Petroleum  crudum.  Yellowish  or  reddish,  limpid,  irides- 
cent, of  a peculiar  bituminous  odor,  soluble  in  fixed  and  volatile  oils,  in  ether  and  abso-  j 
lute  alcohol,  with  difficulty  soluble  in  alcohol ; specific  gravity  0.75  to  0.85.  This  is  , 
sometimes  employed  in  Europe. 

Action  and  Uses. — Taken  internally  in  excessive  doses,  petroleum  has  caused  thirst, 
burning  in  the  throat  and  stomach,  oppression,  giddiness,  palpitation,  faintness,  and  head- 
ache, but  only  exceptionally  a tendency  to  stupor,  or  even  sleep.  In  one  case  frightful 
tonic  and  clonic  convulsions  occurred ; in  another  the  pulse  fell  from  82  to  48,  the  pupils 
were  contracted,  the  skin  hot,  the  respiration  hurried,  and  the  voice  weak.  It  is  remark- 
able that  it  does  not  produce  vomiting,  nor,  usually,  diarrhoea.  In  one  case  5 ounces  (Med. 
News,  xlvii.  658),  and  in  another  about  a pint  (Med.  Record,  xxviii.  348),  was  taken 
with  suicidal  intention.  Both  persons  recovered.  In  only  one  case  is  death  said  to  have 
resulted  from  it,  with  symptoms  of  gastro-enteritis,  on  the  twentieth  day  after  the  oil 
was  taken.  The  urine  has  a peculiar  aromatic  odor,  and  a large  proportion  of  the  oil 
may  be  recovered  from  it.  Sometimes  it  is  albuminous.  The  vapor  of  the  oil  produces 
a state  resembling  alcoholic  intoxication,  but  the  pupils  are  contracted,  the  eyes  are 
staring,  and  cyanosis  sometimes  occurs.  The  workers  in  refining  petroleum  are  subject 
to  erythematous  and  vesicular  eruptions,  due,  probably,  to  the  sulphuric  acid  employed 
(Med.  News , lii.  554 ; liii.  150,  152).  Wielczyk  states,  regarding  the  petroleum  miners 
in  the  Carpathians,  that  when  they  remain  long  exposed  to  its  vapors  they  suffer  from 
noises  in  the  ears,  luminous  spectra,  throbbing  of  the  arteries,  syncope,  stupor,  and 
hallucinations.  They  are,  however,  exceptionally  free  from  phthisis,  bronchitis,  and  dis- 
eases of  the  skin  (Bull,  de  Therap.,  cxi.  374). 

The  oil  has  been  highly  esteemed  for  the  cure  of  tapeworm  and  other  verminous  affec- 
tions, and  for  overcoming  retention  of  urine  caused  by  atony  of  the  bladder,  and  also 
credited  with  singular  virtues  as  aft  embrocation  in  paralysis,  contraction,  and  stiffness  of 


PETROSELINTJM. 


1211 


. the  joints,  atonic  rheumatism , and  tumors , burns,  chilblains,  etc.  The  popular  use  of  it  as 
a remedy  for  itch  has  been  imitated  by  physicians,  and  many  cures  by  its  means  have 
been  reported.  It  is  said  to  be  one  of  the  promptest  of  the  remedies  for  this  affection, 
but  it  is  also  stated  by  eminent  authorities  not  only  to  fail  in  a majority  of  cases,  but  in 
some  to  be  a painful  application,  and  to  produce  sleeplessness,  intoxication,  and  eczema- 
tous eruptions  of  the  skin.  It  has  been  found  curative  in  prurigo.  Kaposi  recom- 
mends as  the  best  remedy  for  pediculi  the  following  liniment,  well  rubbed  into  the  skin  : 
Petrolei  venalis,  Gm.  100  ; 01.  olivae.,  Gm.  50  ; Balsam  Peruvian,  Gm.  10 — for  one  or 
two  days,  and  then  washed  out  with  soap  and  water.  Dr.  Prayer  used  petroleum  in  the 
treatment  of  wounds , and  regarded  it  as  possessing  “ some,  if  not  all,  of  the  advantages 
assigned  to  carbolic  acid  for  this  purpose.”  The  ancient  use  of  this  substance  for  the 
care  of  chronic  bronchitis  has  been  revived  with  such  advantage  as  attends  the  adminis- 
tration of  various  terebinthinate  and  balsamic  medicines  ( Practitioner , xxiv.  375).  For 
this  purpose  the  crude  oil  is  greatly  to  be  preferred  to  the  refined,  and  wherever  petroleum 
is  manufactured  it  is  considered  a sovereign  remedy  not  only  for  bronchitis,  but  for  all 
other  mucous  profluvia,  as  well  as  for  internal  lesions  of  every  sort  (Blache,  Bull,  de  Ther., 
xcv.  489 ; Campardon,  ibid.,  xcvii.  463).  It  has  been  applied  with  alleged  success  to 
the  removal  of  diphtheritic  false  membranes  ( Bull . et  Mem.  Soc.  therap Juin,  1882,  p. 
135;  Phila.  Med.  News , xli.  509),  and  suggested  as  a remedy  for  favus  ( Boston  Med.  and 
Surg.  Jour.,  Nov.  1882,  p.  453). 

Petroleum  may  be  given  internally  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.30-0.60  (gtt.  v-x)  in  the  same 
way  as  oil  of  turpentine.  For  the  cure  of  tapeworm  larger  doses,  such  as  Gm.  2 (f^ss), 
may  be  used.  In  liniments  its  odor  may  be  partially  masked  by  that  of  some  agreeable 
essential  oil.  It  is  sometimes  united  with  cosmoline,  which  renders  it  easy  of  applica- 
tion in  all  of  the  external  diseases  mentioned  above.  Its  operation  and  advantages  are 
nearly  identical  with  those  of  paraffin  and  vaseline.  Petroleum  may  be  administered  in 
capsules,  but  as  this  method  allows  the  pure  oil  to  irritate  the  stomach,  it  is  preferably 
given  in  an  emulsion  made  with  white  of  egg,  sugar,  and  tragacanth,  so  as  to  form  a semi- 
liquid mixture. 

Oleum  deelin^e,  a product  of  petroleum  made  by  the  “ Dee  Oil  Company  ” (Eng.),  is 
recommended  by  Boberts  and  others  as  an  application  after  the  acute  stage  of  eczema, 
and  in  pityriasis  capitis  after  the  parts  have  been  cleansed  by  a warm  bran  or  oatmeal 
bath  ( Practitioner , xxxiv,  401 ; xxxix.  287  ; Edinb.  Med.  Jour.,  xxxi.  922).  It  should 
be  diluted  with  a neutral  oil. 

Bhigolene,  or  Amyl  hydride.  Used  with  an  ordinary  hand  spray-producer,  fur- 
nished with  metal  tubes,  it  readily  produces  a temperature  of  15°  below  zero  F.  It  is 
therefore  more  reliable  than  ether  for  this  purpose,  although  if  its  application  be  too  long 
continued,  it  may  cause  frostbite,  and  even  mortification.  Bichardson  recommends  a 
mixture  of  equal  volumes  of  anhydrous  ether  and  rhigolene.  It  was  used  in  a great 
variety  of  cases  in  which  local  anaesthesia  was  required  to  render  certain  surgical  opera- 
tions painless,  but  it  does  not  seem  to  have  commended  itself  to  general  adoption,  on 
account  probably  of  its  explosiveness  when  in  contact  with  flame. 

Dr.  B.  W.  Bichardson  recommends  for  burns  a solution  of  1 drachm  of  spermaceti  and 
1 drachm  of  camphor  in  2 fluidounces  of  rhigolene.  The  anaesthetic  action  of  the  rhigo- 
lene is  succeeded  by  the  protective  action  of  a film  of  camphorated  spermaceti.  The 
mixture  should  be  applied  on  cotton.  A solution  of  iodine  in  amyl  hydride  applied  to 
wounds,  ulcers,  etc.  acts  in  a similar  manner.  Such  a solution  (gr.  v to  f^j)  may  be  used 
in  spray  for  inhalation ; and  by  shaking  a strong  solution  of  ammonia  with  rhigolene  and 
then  decanting  the  water,  an  antiseptic  solution  for  inhalation  is  obtained.  Dr.  Stabler 
has  extended  this  method  to  the  use  of  olive  and  almond  oil  in  rhigolene  (2  : 6),  and  has 
found  that  various  other  medicinal  substances  may  be  similarly  used — e.  g.  copaiba,  cubeb 
oil,  iodol,  iodoform,  oil  of  turpentine,  thymol,  etc.  Cocaine  dissolved  in  alcohol  and 
mixed  with  castor  oil  and  rhigolene  makes  a perfect  solution  {Med.  News , 1.  429). 

PETROSELINUM.—  Parsley. 

Persil,  Fr. ; Peter silie,  G. ; Peregil,  Sp. 

The  root  of  Petroselinuni  sativum,  Hoffmann,  s.  Apium  Petroselinum,  Innne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Umbelliferae,  Orthospermae. 

Origin. — Parsley  is  indigenous  to  Southern  Europe,  and  is  much  cultivated  for  culi- 
nary purposes.  It  is  a biennial,  has  bi-  or  tri-pinnate  smooth  and  shining  leaves,  with 
ovate  wedge-shaped  three-cleft  toothed  or  crisp  leaflets. 


1212 


PETR  OSELINUM. 


Description. — Radix  petroselini.  The  root  is  15-20  Cm.  (6  or  8 inches)  long, 
inch)  thick,  when  dry  pale  brown-yellow  externally,  annulate  above, 
longitudinally  wrinkled  below,  and  marked  with  transverse  corky 
ridges ; it  breaks  with  a short  and  mealy  fracture,  upon  which  is 
seen  a thick  white  and  in  the  inner  layer  radially  striate  bark,  a fine 
dark-colored  cambium-line,  and  a yellow,  soft  meditullium  with  irreg- 
ular medullary  rays.  The  bark  and  medullary  rays  contain  scattered 
brown  resin-cells.  The  root  is  faintly  aromatic  and  has  a sweetish 
taste. 

Fructus  petroselini.  The  fruit  is  1.5-2  Mm.  (tl  to  yL  inch) 
long,  ovate,  laterally  flattened,  greenish-brown,  each  mericarp  with 
five  light  brown-gray  filiform  ribs  and  six  oil-tubes,  and  has  a strong 
aromatic  odor  and  a warm  taste. 

Constituents. — The  root  contains  starch,  mucilage,  sugar,  vola- 
tile oil,  and  apiin , C24H28013.  The  latter  is  best  obtained  from  the 
fresh  herb  by  boiling  with  water,  expressing  while  hot,  and  purifying 
the  green  gelatinous  precipitate  which  forms  on  standing  by  dissolving  it  in  hot  water. 
It  was  discovered  by  Braconnot  (1843),  and  is  a white,  inodorous,  and  tasteless  powder, 
perhaps  a glucoside,  soluble  in  boiling  water  and  alcohol,  separating  on  cooling  jelly-like; 
the  hot  aqueous  solution  acquires  a blood-red  color  on  the  addition  of  ferrous  sulphate. 

The  fruit  was  examined  by  C.  Rump  (1836),  and  found  to  contain  1.4  per  cent,  of 
volatile  oil  and  22  per  cent,  of  fixed  oil,  besides  mucilage  and  other  common  principles. 
Oil  of  parsley  is  colorless  or  yellowish,  has  the  specific  gravity  1.01  to  1.14,  dissolves  in 
2i  parts  of  80  per  cent,  alcohol,  commences  to  boil  near  170°  C.  (338°  F.),  and  consists 
of  a hydrocarbon,  C10H]6,  and  a stearopten,  C12H1404.  This  parsley  camphor  crystallizes 
in  silky  needles  or  prisms  which  fuse  at  30°  C.  (86°  F.)  and  are  partly  sublimable ; it  is 
readily  soluble  in  strong  alcohol,  ether,  and  fixed  and  volatile  oils,  and  has  a faint  odor  of 
parsley  and  a camphoraceous,  pungent  taste. 

Joret  and  Homolle  (1855)  separated  from  parsley-fruit  apiol,  by  exhausting  with  alco- 
hol, treating  the  tincture  with  animal  charcoal,  distilling  off  three-fourths  of  the  alcohol, 
dissolving  in  ether,  evaporating  the  ethereal  solution,  macerating  the  residue  with  lev- 
igated litharge,  and  filtering  through  charcoal.  A simpler  process  was  recommended  by 
L.  Wolff  (1877).  The  fruit  is  exhausted  with  petroleum  benzin,  the  solvent  evaporated, 
and  the  residue  treated  with  strong  alcohol,  on  the  evaporation  of  which  apiol  is  left.  It 
is  a colorless  oil  of  spec.  grav.  1.07,  becomes  turbid  without  congealing  at  — 12°  C. 
(10.4°  F.),  has  an  acid  reaction,  the  odor  of  parsley,  and  a pungent  taste,  forms  a kind 
of  emulsion  with  alkalies,  and  is  easily  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  chloroform,  and  in  glacial 
acetic  acid. 

Allied  Plant. — Apium  graveolens,  Linne. — Celery,  E. ; Ache  Celeri,  Fr. ; Sellerie,  Eppich, 
G. ; Apio  silvestro,  Sp. — A biennial  plant  indigenous  to  Europe,  where  it  grows  wild  in  ditches 
and  meadows.  It  has  a spindle-shaped  whitish  root,  which,  like  the  dark-green  glossy  pinnate 
or  ternate  lobed  and  coarsely  serrate  leaves,  has  a disagreeable  odor,  an  acrid  bitter  taste,  and  is 
regarded  as  poisonous.  Under  cultivation  the  root  becomes  short,  thick,  tuberous,  juicy,  and  of 
an  agreeable  flavor,  and  with  the  blanched  stalks  is  much  used  as  a salad.  The  fruit  (Fructus 
apii,  celery-seed ) is  about  1-1.5  Mm.  (^  to  inch)  long,  roundish-ovate,  laterally  flattened, 
brown,  with  lighter-colored  ribs,  and  smooth  ; the  mericarps  are  usually  separate,  somewhat 
curved,  flat  on  the  face,  and  contain  about  twelve  thin  oil-tubes  ; odor  and  taste  are  agreeably  aro- 
matic. All  parts  of  the  cultivated  plant  contain  volatile  oil,  sugar,  mucilage,  and  fat ; the  root 
and  leaves  also  mannit. 

Action  and  Uses. — In  modern  as  in  ancient  times  parsley  has  been  used  as  a car- 
minative, discutient,  and  diuretic.  The  root  is  said  to  be  more  actively  diuretic  than 
the  rest  of  the  plant ; its  fruit  resembles  in  its  action  those  of  fennel,  anise,  etc.,  and  its 
peculiar  oil,  apiol,  acts  in  part  after  the  manner  of  essential  oils. 

Freshly-bruised  parsley-leaves  are  a popular  remedy  for  the  “ weed,”  or  the  engorge- 
ment of  the  mammae  at  the  commencement  of  lactation,  and  for  threatening  abscess  of 
these  and  other  external  glands.  In  like  manner  they  are  employed  to  dry  up  the  milk. 
A decoction  of  parsley-root  is  useful  in  relieving  strangury  from  cantharides  and  turpen- 
tine, and  the  painful  micturition  attending  attacks  of  gravel.  An  infusion  of  the  dried 
leaves  and  the  juice  have  been  used  to  cure  gonorrhoea , and  also  periodical  fevers  and  neur- 
algia; but  the  seeds  are  said  to  be  superior  to  either  in  the  treatment  of  intermittent 
fever  when  given  in  the  form  of  a recently-prepared  and  strong  decoction.  Its  repulsive 
smell  and  taste  render  it  a very  ineligible  remedy,  and  it  is  now  supplanted  by  apiol,  to 


12-25  Mm.  (£  to  1 
Fig.  207. 


Parsley-root:  transverse 
section,  magnified  3 di- 
ameters. 


PH  A LA  R IS. —PH EL  LAND  Ell  TM. 


1213 


which  identical  therapeutic  powers  are  ascribed.  The  value  of  this  agent  as  an  anti- 
periodic  is  no  better  established  than  that  of -the  almost  innumerable  medicines  which  are 
reported  to  cure  periodical  affections.  The  case  is  different  in  regard  to  amenorrhcea, 
scanty  menstruation , and  dysmenorrhoea , in  which  its  efficacy  is  demonstrated  whenever 
these  affections  appear  to  be  owing  to  a want  of  activity  and  power  in  the  ovarian  nisus  • 
in  a word,  in  all  those  cases  for  which  direct  emmenagogues  are  considered  appropriate. 
It  must  not  be  forgotten,  however,  that  the  state  in  question  is  often  subordinate  to  or 
associated  with  a general  atony  of  the  system,  which  requires  for  its  cure  tonics,  haemat- 
ics, and  hygienic  agents.  Apiol  has  been  used  successfully  in  cases  of  fetid  menstruation 
(. Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  Nov.  1880,  p.  482). 

Powdered  parsley-seeds  may  be  given  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.60-1.00  (gr.  x-xv).  The  root 
should  be  employed  in  the  recent  state,  and  generally  in  strong  infusion.  Apiol  may  be 
administered  two  or  three  times  a day  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.30  (gtt.  v-vj)  enclosed  in  gelatin 
capsules.  In  the  uterine  disorders  above  referred  to  the  use  of  the  medicine  should  be 
commenced  four  or  five  days  before  the  menstrual  period. 

Celery-juice  and  the  infusion  of  the  herb  or  roots  have  been  long  employed  for  the 
same  purposes  as  parsley,  as  well  as  for  chronic  bronchitis  and  intermittent  fever.  The 
same  preparations,  or  the  bruised  leaves  and  stalks,  have  been  applied  as  stimulant  and 
anodyne  cataplasms  to  contusions , glandular  swellings , etc. 

PHALARIS. — Canary-seed. 

JEpiste , Fr.,  Sp. ; Kanariensamen,  G. 

The  fruit  of  Phalaris  canariensis,  Linne. 

Xat.  Ord. — Graminacese. 

Origin. — This  annual  grass  is  indigenous  to  the  basin  of  the  Mediterranean,  and  is 
cultivated  for  its  fruit,  which  is  much  used  as  food  for  canaries  and  other  birds. 

Description. — The  fruit  is  about  4 Mm.  (4  inch)  long,  ovate  or  elliptic,  flattened, 
enclosed  by  glossy,  yellowish-gray  paleae,  after  the  removal  of  which  the  fruit  is  smooth 
and  brownish  and  internally  white.  It  is  inodorous  and  has  a slightly  bitter  taste. 

Constituents. — Like  other  graminaceous  fruits,  canary-seed  contains  starch,  gluten, 
a little  sugar,  and  fat ; Dubuc  ascertained  also  the  presence  in  it  of  notable  quantities  of 
calcium  chloride  and  of  a brown  bitter  coloring  matter. 

Action  and  Uses. — Canary-seed  is  to  be  ranked  with  other  amylaceous  seeds  as 
nutritious  and  emollient.  It  is  familiar  as  a food  for  birds,  and  has  been  used  by  man  for 
the  same  purpose,  alone  or  mixed  with  wheat  or  rye  flour.  In  medicine  poultices  have 
sometimes  been  made  of  it. 

PHELLANDRIUM. — Phellandrium. 

Fructus  phellandrii , P.  G. — Five-leaved  water -hemlock,  E. ; Phellandrie  aquatique,  Fr. 
Cod. ; Fenouil  d'eau,  Fr. ; Wasserfenchel,  G. 

. The  fruit  of  (Enanthe  Phellandrium,  Lamarck , s.  Phellandrium  aquaticum,  Linne. 

Xat.  Ord. — Umbelliferae,  Orthospermae. 

Origin. — This  biennial  plant  grows  in  swampy  places  and  on  river-banks  in  Europe 
and  Northern  Asia.  It  has  pale-green  pinnately  dissected  leaves,  with  ovate  lobed  or 
pinnately  cleft  leaflets,  the  submersed  ones  narrow  and  thread-like.  The  flowers  are  white, 
in  compound  umbels,  with  short  linear  involucral  leaves. 

Description. — The  fruit  is  3—5  Mm.  (J  to  I inch)  long,  ovate-oblong  in  shape, 
scarcely  compressed,  and  narrowed  above.  The  three  dorsal  ribs  are  broad  and  obtuse, 
the  two  lateral  ones  larger,  the  four  grooves  narrow,  each  with  a single  oil-tube,  and  two 
additional  oil-tubes  on  the  face  of  each  rnericarp.  It  is  of  a brown,  and  when  collected 
in  an  unripe  state  of  a blackish-brown,  color,  and  has  an  unpleasant  odor,  recalling  that 
of  caraway,  and  a bitterish  somewhat  acrid  taste. 

Constituents. — Berthold  (1818)  obtained  1.5  per  cent,  of  volatile  oil,  7.8  of  fat  and 
wax,  4.9  of  resin,  and  other  unimportant  principles.  Smaller  quantities,  0.5  to  0.8  per 
cent,,  of  volatile  oil  were  obtained  by  others.  According  to  Pesci  (1883),  the  greater  por- 
tion of  the  volatile  oil  consists  of  jyhellandrene,  which  is  a levogyrate  terpene  boiling  at 
171°  C.  (340°  F.)  and  polymerized  by  heat.  Frickhinger  (1839)  describes  the  volatile  oil 
as  being  brownish-yellow,  limpid,  of  spec.  grav.  0.86,  of  neutral  reaction,  fulminating  with 
iodine,  and  possessing  the  odor  and  taste  of  the  fruit.  Distilled  with  potassa,  the  alkaline 
distillate  contained  ammonia,  but  no  other  alkaloid ; 186  ounces  of  the  recently-dried 


1214 


PHENA  CETIN  UM. 


fruit  yielded  over  12  drachms  of  ammonium  sulphate.  The  supposed  alkaloid  obtained  I 
by  C.  Fronefield  (1860)  was  probably  identical  with  Devay  and  Guillermond’s  (1852) 
p hellandrin,  which  appears  to  be  merely  volatile  oil ; it  is  volatile,  liquid,  neutral,  and 
soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  and  fixed  oils. 

Action  and  Uses. — Five-leaved  water-hemlock  has  been  compared  in  its  action  to  j 
conium,  for  it  is  said  that  some  animals  upon  eating  the  fresh  herb  lose  their  muscular 
power,  and  that  this  effect  is  not  produced  by  the  dried  herb.  The  essential  oil  prepared 
from  it  injected  into  a dog’s  veins  in  the  dose  of  10  grains  caused  dyspnoea,  trembling, 
and  anxiety  for  several  hours.  The  fruit  appears  to  be  stimulant,  diaphoretic,  diuretic, 
and  expectorant,  and  without  a direct  or  exclusive  action  upon  the  nervous  system. 
Although  recommended  sometimes  as  a remedy  for  dropsy,  whooping  cough,  intermittent 
fever,  etc.,  it  is  chiefly  in  chronic  bronchitis  that  the  virtues  of  the  medicine  are  displayed. 
At  a time  when  this  affection  was  considered  a form  of  consumption,  phellandrium  was 
reputed  to  be  a remedy  for  the  latter  disease ; but  it  is  now  certain  that  it  could  be  useful 
in  tubercular  phthisis  in  so  far  only  as  it  might  diminish  the  bronchial  secretion,  as  it  does 
in  simple  bronchitis.  It  shares  this  virtue  with  numerous  plants  whose  activity  is  due  to 
their  essential  oil,  but  neither  it  nor  they  can  be  compared  in  efficiency  with  the  terebin- 
thinate  and  balsamic  preparations.  The  dose  of  the  powdered  fruit  is  Gm.  2-4  (gr. 
xxx-lx).  An  infusion  made  with  Gm.  16  in  Gm.  250  (bruised  fruit  gss  in  Oss  of  hot 
water)  may  be  given  in  doses  of  1 or  2 tablespoonfuls  several  times  a day. 

PHENACETINUM,  Br.  Add.,  P.  G.— Phenacetin. 

Para-acetphenetidin , Para-oxyethylacetanilid. — Phenacetine , Fr. ; Phenacetin , G. 

Formula  C6H4.0C2H5.NHC2H30.  Mol.  weight  178.63. 

Phenacetin  was  first  produced  in  1887  by  Kast  and  Hinsberg.  Chemically,  it  may  be 
looked  upon  as  para-phenetidin,  in  which  a hydrogen  atom  has  been  displaced  by  acetyl, 
C2H30,  or  as  acetanilid,  in  which  a hydrogen  atom  has  been  displaced  by  the  oxyethyl 
group,  OC2H5. 

Preparation. — When  somewhat  diluted  nitric  acid  is  allowed  to  act  on  melted 
phenol,  C6H5OH,  ortho-  and  para-nitrophenol  are  formed,  C6H40HN02,  which  are  separated 
by  distillation  in  a current  of  steam  ; the  para-nitrophenol  not  volatilizing  is  purified  by 
crystallization  from  hot  concentrated  hydrochloric  acid,  and  is  converted  into  sodium 
para-nitrophenol,  C6II40NaN02,  by  treatment  with  sodium  hydroxide.  The  latter  com- 
pound is  converted  into  para-nitrophenetol,  C6H40C2H5N02,  by  the  action  of  ethyl  iodide  or 
chloride,  and  this  by  nascent  hydrogen  into  para-amidophenetol  or  para-phenetidin,  C6H4 
OC2H-NH2.  By  prolonged  boiling  with  glacial  acetic  acid  para-phenetidin  is  converted 
into  para-acetphenetidin  or  phenacetin. 

Properties.  — Phenacetin  occurs  as  colorless,  inodorous,  glistening,  scaly  crystals  or 
as  a white  crystalline  powder ; it  is  almost  tasteless,  and  very  sparingly  soluble  in  cold 
water  (1400  parts  P.  G.),  more  freely  soluble  in  boiling  water  (70  parts  P.  G.),  and 
soluble  in  16  parts  of  cold  alcohol  (Br.  Add.,  P.  G.)  and  2 parts  of  boiling  alcohol 
(P.  G.)  ; it  also  forms  a colorless  solution  with  sulphuric  acid.  Phenacetin  melts  at  135° 

C.  (275°  F.),  and  completely  volatilizes  when  heated  on  platinum-foil.  1 grain  (0.1  Gm. 

P.  G.),  boiled  with  20  minims  (1  Cc.  P.  G.)  of  hydrochloric  acid  for  about  half  a minute 
^(one  minute,  P.  G.),  yields  a liquid  which,  diluted  with  ten  times  its  volume  of  water, 
cooled,  and  filtered,  assumes  a deep-red  (ruby-red,  P.  G.)  coloration  on  the  addition  of 
chromic  acid  (3  drops  of  a 3 per  cent,  solution,  P G.). 

Tests. — A cold  saturated  aqueous  solution  should  not  become  turbid  on  the  addition 
of  bromine-water  (absence  of  acetanilid).  “ A mixture  of  5 grains  of  phenacetin  with  2 
fluidrachms  of  solution  of  potash,  boiled,  should  yield  no  unpleasant  odor  when  again 
boiled  after  the  addition  of  5 drops  of  chloroform  ” ( Br . Add.).  Since  prolonged  heating 
of  phenacetin  with  caustic  alkali  solutions  causes  decomposition  into  acetic  acid  and  para- 
amidophenetol,  the  last-mentioned  test  is  unreliable,  as  the  odor  of  phenyl  isonitrile  will 
be  observed. 

Derivative  and  Allied  Compounds. — Iodophenine.  If  to  a mixture  of  hydrochloric  acid  and 
a cold  saturated  aqueous  solution  of  phenacetin  be  added  a solution  of  iodine  in  potassium  iodide 
and  water,  a fine  crystalline  precipitate  of  chocolate-brown  color  will  be  obtained,  which  is  a com- 
pound of  phenacetin  and  iodine,  containing  about  50  per  cent,  of  the  latter  substance.  If  glacial 
acetic  acid  be  used  as  the  solvent  for  phenacetin  in  place  of  water  and  the  solution  warmed, 
iodophenine  will  be  obtained  in  crystals  of  steel-blue  color  resembling  potassium  permanganate. 

It  is  insoluble  in  water,  soluble  with  difficulty  in  benzene  and  chloroform,  but  more  readily  in 


PH  ENA  CETIN  UM. 


1215 


alcohol,  glacial  acetic  acid,  and  boiling  hydrochloric  acid.  It  has  a feeble  iodine-like  odor,  a 
burning  taste,  and  colors  the  skin  yellow.  Iodophenine  melts  at  130°  C.  (266°  F.)  with  decom- 
position. 

Methacetin,  Para-acetanisidin,  Para-oxymethylacetanilid,  C6II40CIl3NHC2H30.  This,  the 
most  formidable  rival  of  phenacetin,  differs  from  the  latter,  as  the  formula  shows,  in  the  substi- 
tution of  a methyl  group  in  place  of  an  ethyl  group.  The  process  for  its  manufacture  is  iden- 
tical with  that  for  phenacetin,  except  that  methyl  iodide  or  chloride  is  used  in  place  of  the  respec- 
tive ethyl  compound.  It  occurs  in  lustrous  scaly  crystals,  colorless,  odorless,  and  melting  at  127° 
C.  (260.6°  F.).  Methacetin  is  soluble  in  350  parts  of  water  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  and  in  12  parts  at  100° 
C.  (212°  F.)  : it  is  abundantly  taken  up  by  alcohol,  acetone,  chloroform,  glycerin,  and  fixed  oils. 
It  may  be  distinguished  from  phenacetin  by  melting  to  an  oily  liquid  if  heated  with  water  in 
insufficient  quantity  for  solution,  phenacetin  being  unaffected  by  this  treatment ; the  liquid  solid- 
ifies again  on  cooling.  It  has  been  recommended  as  an  antipyretic  and  analgesic  in  much  smaller 
doses  than  phenacetin. 

Hydracetin,  Acetylphenylhydrazine,  CglljHN — NHC2H30.  This  antipyretic  may  be  pre- 
pared by  heating  together  phenylhydrazine  and  acetic  anhydride,  dissolving  the  product  in  boil- 
ing water,  and  crystallizing,  or  by  prolonged  action  of  glacial  acetic  acid  on  phenylhydrazine, 
distilling  off  the  excess  of  acid,  and  crystallizing.  It  occurs  in  lustrous,  colorless  hexagonal 
prisms,  odorless  and  practically  tasteless,  melting  at  128.5°  C.  (263.3°  F.)  ; it  is  soluble  in  50 
parts  of  water  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  and  in  8-10  parts  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.).  Hydracetin  may  be 
distinguished  from  phenacetin  and  methacetin  by  forming  a colorless  solution  with  sulphuric 
acid,  which  turns  blood-red  on  addition  of  a drop  of  nitric  acid.  If  added  to  silver  or  gold  solu- 
tions, it  precipitates  the  metals  in  the  reguline  state.  Like  phenylhydrazine,  it  is  poisonous, 
exerting  a solvent  action  on  blood-corpuscles,  and  is  cumulative  in  its  effects.  The  dose  inter- 
nally is  0.01-0.06  Gm.  (£-1  grain),  not  exceeding  0.125  Gm.  (2  grains)  daily.  Externally  a 10 
per  cent,  ointment  has  been  used  against  psoriasis  in  place  of  chrysarobin.  Impure  hydracetin 
appeared  in  1888  under  the  fancy  name  of  pyrodin. 

Phenylhydrazine,  C6H5.NH.NH.2,  from  which  hydracetin,  as  also  antipyrine  and  other  sub- 
stances, are  prepared,  is  obtained  by  the  reducing  action  of  nascent  hydrogen  on  diazobenzene, 
C6H5X.N.OH,  which  latter  compound  is  formed  by  the  action  of  nitrous  acid,  HN02,  on  aniline, 
C6H5NH2.  It  is  a colorless  oily  liquid,  which  boils  at  233°-234°  C.  (451.4°-453.2°  F.)  and  sol- 
idifies at  a low  temperature  in  tablets,  melting  at  23°  C.  (73.40°  F.). 

Phenocoll  hydrochloride.  Glycocollparaphenetidin  hydrochloride,  C6II4.OC2H5.NH.COCH2.- 
NILj.HCl.  This  is  one  of  the  latest  additions  to  the  already  large  class  of  antipyretics,  and  is  the 
result  of  efforts  to  produce  a soluble  phenacetin  derivative  retaining  the  valuable  properties  of 
the  latter  substance.  The  name  of  phenocoll  is  a contraction  of  phenetidin  (para-amidophenetol) 
and  glycocoll  (amido-acetic  acid),  the  two  bodies  which  by  interaction  produce  the  new  substance. 
It  is  usually  prepared  by  acting  on  paraphenetidin  with  monochloracetylchloride,  and  then  con- 
verting the  newly-formed  oxyethyl-monochloracetanilid  into  phenocoll  by  means  of  ammonia ; 
the  base  is  freed  from  combination  by  sodium  hydroxide  and  purified  by  recrystallization  from 
hot  water;  it  readily  neutralizes  acids  to  form  salts.  Phenocoll  hydrochloride  occurs  in  the 
form  of  a white  micro-crystalline  powder,  soluble  at  15°  C (59°  F.)  in  20  parts  of  water ; it  crys- 
tallizes from  hot  water  in  cubes,  from  hot  alcohol  in  needles.  Its  solutions  are  neutral,  from 
which  the  pure  base  is  precipitated  by  ammonia,  the  fixed  alkalies,  and  their  carbonates  in  the 
form  of  white  matted  needles  with  one  molecule  of  water  of  crystallization.  The  anhydrous  base 
melts  at  100.5°  C.  (212.9°  F.)r  but  the  compound  with  water  at  95°  C.  (203°  F.).  It  is  difficultly 
soluble  in  cold  water,  but  readily  in  hot  water  and  alcohol.  Physiologically,  the  compound 
appears  to  possess  advantages  over  other  synthetical  antipyretics  in  not  having  injurious  effects 
upon  the  blood-corpuscles  even  when  brought  in  direct  contact  with  them.  It  is  given  in  doses 
of  0.52  Gm.  (8  grains)  three  times  a day  in  powder  or  solution.  Other  salts  of  phenocoll  have 
been  prepared,  the  carbonate,  salicylate,  and  acetate,  the  latter  being  soluble  in  4 parts  of  water, 
and  therefore  well  adapted  for  hypodermic  use. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  is  one  of  the  many  artificial  compounds  that  reduce  the 
pulse  and  temperature  to  the  verge  of  death,  with  accompaniment  of  chilliness,  sweating, 
cyanosis,  etc.  (See  case  by  Hallopeter,  Med.  News,  lv.  385).  The  remarkable  power 
of  phenacetin  to  control  pain  was  probably  suggested  by  its  close  analogy,  in  other 
respects,  to  antipyrine.  It  allays  the  pain  in  chronic  muscular  rheumatism , sciatica , and 
gastralgia.  let  it  palliates,  and  sometimes  removes,  the  acute  pains  of  articular  rheuma- 
tism, of  pleurisy , of  dysmenorrhcea,  and  of  migraine,  and  also  lessens  the  irritability  of  the 
larynx  due  to  congestion  in  laryngitis  and  whooping  cough.  By  allaying,  pain  it  tends  to 
promote  sleep,  and  in  local  inflammation  and  congestions  to  diminish  swelling.  It  is  said 
to  have  controlled  diabetes  and  polyuria  (Misrachi  and  Rifat,  Bull,  de  Therap.,  cxiv.  48). 
These  observations  agree  with  Rumpf’s  conclusions,  that  the  analgesic  virtue  of  the 
medicine  is  greatest  when  the  cause  of  pain  is  not  permanent  and  organic.  It  relieves 
the  pain  of  acute  neuritis,  but  fails  to  palliate  that  of  chronic  myelitis,  arthritis,  cystitis, 
metritis,  etc.  (. Berlin . Ichn.  Wochensch.,  No.  23,  1888).  The  advantage  claimed  for  it  over 
other  antipyretics  is  that  it  is  tasteless,  rarely  excites  vomiting,  diuresis,  or  diarrhoea, 
ringing  in  the  ears,  or  cutaneous  eruptions.  According  to  Masius  ( Lancet , Mar.  1889, 


1216 


PHORMIUM. 


p.  497),  its  antithermic  action  is  prompter,  but  briefer,  than  that  of  antipyrine,  while  its 
tendency  to  cause  rigors  is  greater.  Being  tasteless,  phenacetin  may  be  administered  to 
children,  as  to  adults,  in  powdered  sugar  or  in  wafers.  Lactic  acid  promotes  its  solu- 
tion. As  an  antithermic  the  dose  is  about  Gm.  0.30  (gr.  v.)  every  two  or  three  hours  ; as 
an  analgesic,  single  doses  of  Gm.  0.75-2  (gr.  x.-xxx,  must  be  given,  beginning  with  smaller 
ones  (max.  dose,  Gm.  1 ; max.  daily  quantity,  Gm.  5,  Ph.  6r.).  For  children  the  average 
dose  is  about  5 grains. 

Methacetin  reduces  the  pulse-rate  and  temperature  in  fever,  and  sometimes  produces 
profuse  sweating,  collapse,  and  cyanosis,  especially  in  persons  already  enfeebled.  It  has 
been  employed  in  typhoid  fever  and  articular  rheumatism — in  the  latter,  with  some 
apparent  advantage.  In  neuralgia  its  use  has  not  been  encouraging.  The  daily  dose  has 
varied  from  Gm.  0.50-1  (gr.  vij-xv.) 

Hydracetin,  alleged  by  Guttmann  ( Therap.  Monatsh .,  iii.  330)  to  be  the  active  con- 
stituent of  pyrodin,  is  poisonous  to  rabbits,  affecting  all  the  excretory  organs  and  tingeing 
the  urine  with  disorganized  blood-corpuscles.  In  daily  portions  of  Gm.  0.1-0.15  (gr.  iss- 
ij)  and  in  divided  doses  it  lowered  the  temperature  by  one  to  three  degrees  C.,  and  in 
acute  articular  rheumatism  appeased  the  pain,  without  otherwise  affecting  the  course  of 
the  disease.  Its  continued  internal  use  for  seven  days  has  produced  symptoms  of  poison- 
ing, and  Ostricher  ( ibid .,  p.  383)  found  that  in  a 10  per  cent,  lanolin  ointment,  used  in 
psoriasis,  the  local  effects  were  good,  but  its  continued  application  caused  weariness  and 
heaviness  of  the  limbs,  pallor  of  the  skin  and  visible  mucous  membranes,  and  in  one 
case  jaundice.  Paschkis  (1890)  states  that  the  alarming  consequences  of  its  absorp- 
tion caused  it  to  be  laid  aside  (jCentralb.  f.  Ther.,  viii.  58.  Compare  Basch,  Ther.  Gaz .. 
xiv.  576.) 

Phenedin  is  reported  to  be  antipyretic  and  analgesic,  but  is  rarely  employed.  Its 
dose  is  said  to  be  Gm.  0.60  (gr.  xij)  a day  in  a single  dose  or  in  divided  doses. 

Phenocoll.  like  its  congeners,  reduces  temperature  and  allays  pain,  especially  of  the 
neuralgic  and  rheumatic  types,  and  hence  is  indirectly  hypnotic.  It  is  also  diaphoretic, 
and  imparts  to  the  urine  a dark  color.  The  claims  made  for  it  as  a remedy  for  inter 
mittent  fever  have  not  been  confirmed.  The  hydrochlorate  is  given  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.30-1 
(gr.  v-xv),but  much  larger  ones  have  been  used  without  injury. 


PHORMIUM. — Phormium. 

New  Zealand  flax  (hemp'),  E.  ; Lin  ( Chanvre ) de  la  Nouvelle-Zelande,  Fr. ; Flachslilie, 
Neuseelandischer  Flachs,  G. 

The  root  and  leaf-bases  of  Phormium  tenax,  Forster. 

Nat.  Ord. — Liliacese,  Lilieae. 

Origin  and  Description. — The  plant  is  indigenous  to  New  Zealand  and  the 
Chatham  Islands,  has  been  introduced  into  Australia,  the  Azores,  and  other  countries, 
and  in  temperate  climates  is  cultivated  as  an  ornamental  hot-house  plant.  It  has  a 
fleshy  rhizome,  beset  with  nearly  simple  roots,  and  sending  forth  from  its  end  a tuft  of 
leathery,  linear-lanceolate  leaves,  which  are  from  1. 5-2.4  M.  (5  to  8 feet)  long  and  7-10 
Cm.  (3  to  4 inches)  broad.  The  leaves,  sufficiently  matured,  are  cut  off  above  their  base, 
the  remaining  portion  attached  to  the  rhizome,  and,  with  the  rootlets,  constituting  the 
drug.  The  straight  fibres  of  the  leaves,  separated  from  the  other  tissue,  are  brought  into 
commerce  as  New  Zealand  flax  ; they  are  cream-colored,  of  a silky  lustre,  tough,  but 
rougher  than  hemp,  and  are  mainly  used  for  cordage.  The  flowering  stalk  attains  a height 
of  about  4.5  M.  (15  feet). 

Constituents. — The  drug  has  not  been  subjected  to  analysis. 

Uses. — New  Zealand  flax  was  made  use  of  in  a strong  decoction  by  Mr.  Monckton 
( Therapeutic  Gaz.,  ix.  320)  as  a dressing  for  all  manner  of  lesions  of  continuity,  includ- 
ing lacerations  and  amputations.  As  it  readily  deteriorated  by  fermentation,  he  added 
to  each  quart  of  the  decoction  about  an  ounce  of  equal  parts  of  carbolic  acid  and  glyce- 
rin. With  this  he  washed  the  part  and  maintained  cotton  wool  or  lint  soaked  in  it  con- 
stantly, and  declared  that  the  discharges  were  altogether  insignificant.  Without  further 
knowledge  of  the  constitution  and  qualities  of  Phormium  tenax,  it  would  be  unjust  to 
suggest  that  its  value  is  perhaps  overestimated  ; but  unless  the  results  of  its  use  without 
the  adjunction  of  carbolic  acid  were  furnished,  we  can  scarcely  refuse  to  the  latter  agent 
a large  part  in  the  success  of  the  compound. 


PHOSPHORUS. 


1217 


PHOSPHORUS,  U.  S.9  Br.,  JP.  G.— Phosphorus. 

Phosphore , Fr. ; Phosphor,  G. 

Symbol  P.  Atomicity  trivalent  and  quinquivalent.  Atomic  weight  30.96. 

Phosphorus  should  be  carefully  kept  under  water  in  a secure  and  moderately  cool 
place,  protected  from  light. — U.  S. 

Origin  and  Preparation. — Phosphorus  exists,  mostly  as  phosphates,  in  many 
minerals  and  in  all  plants  and  animals  ; the  bones  of  the  higher  animals  contain  much 
phosphorus  as  tricalcium  phosphate  (Ca3(P04)2).  Phosphorus  was  discovered  by  Brandt 
(1669)  of  Hamburg  among  the  products  of  the  dry  distillation  of  urine,  and  about  1769 
Gahn  and  Scheele  detected  the  presence  of  phosphoric  acid  in  bones,  and  the  latter  suc- 
ceeded in  isolating  it  in  1771.  Phosphorus  is  made  by  treating  calcined  bones  with 
sulphuric  acid,  decanting  from  the  calcium  sulphate,  evaporating  the  solution  of  acid 
calcium  phosphate,  after  mixing  it  with  powdered  charcoal  and  sand  to  complete  dryness, 
gently  igniting  and  distilling  the  residue,  composed  of  calcium  metaphosphate,  charcoal, 
and  sand,  in  a stoneware  retort.  The  different  steps  in  the  manufacture  of  phosphorus 
mav  also  be  explained  by  the  following  chemical  equations : 1st,  Ca3(P04)2  + 2H2S04 
= CaH4(P04)2  + 2CaS04;  2d,  CaH4(P04)2  = Ca(P03)2  + 2H20  ; 3d,  2Ca(PO.)2  + 2SiOa 
+ 10C2  = P4  + 2CaSi03  + 10CO.  In  case  the  organic  matter  of  bones  is  to  be  utilized  in 
the  manufacture  of  glue,  the  bones  are  treated  with  hydrochloric  acid  and  the  liquid 
treated  as  stated.  The  retort  is  connected  with  a wide  bent  tube  which  dips  into  water ; 
a number  of  retorts  are  placed  in  each  furnace,  and  after  the  distillation  is  completed 
the  melted  phosphorus  is  strained  under  water  and  run  into  tubes  of  suitable  size,  where 
it  congeals.  Phosphorus  is  manufactured  in  the  United  States,  but  much  of  it  is  still 
imported. 

Properties. — Phosphorus  is  seen  in  commerce  in  the  form  of  cylindrical  sticks,  which 
are  nearly  colorless  or  pale-yellow,  transparent  or  translucent,  of  a waxy  lustre,  and  about 
as  hard  as  beeswax,  and  flexible  at  ordinary  but  brittle  at  low  temperatures.  It  is  inodorous 
and  tasteless,  but  in  contact  with  air  it  has  an  alliaceous  odor  and  taste,  and  emits  white 
vapors,  which  are  luminous  in  the  dark  (phosphorescence).  It  is  very  easily  inflammable  in 
the  air,  burning  with  a brilliant  white  flame  and  giving  off  dense  white  vapors  of  phosphoric 
anhydride,  and  must  be  preserved  and  cut  under  water,  in  which  it  is  insoluble.  Its 
specific  gravity  is  1.830  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  U.  S.,  1.77  at  15.6°  C.  (60°  F.),  Br.,  and  when 
fused  at  44°  0.  is  1.743,  but  after  purification  with  alcoholic  potassa  was  found  by 
Bottger  to  be  2.089  at  17°  C.  (62.6°  F.).  It  melts  at  44°  C.  (111.2°  F.),  U.  S.,  P.  G.,  at 
43.3°  C.  (110°  F.),  Br.,  and  may  be  cooled  to  40°  C.  (104°  F.)  before  it  congeals  again 
— under  certain  circumstances  even  to  4°  C.  (39.2°  F.),  as  observed  by  Bellani  (1813). 
Grotthuss  (1810)  obtained  phosphorus  in  an  oily  condition  after  boiling  it  with  alcoholic 
solution  of  potassa,  and  Kalhofert  (1850)  by  slowly  evaporating  a solution  of  phosphorus 
in  carbon  disulphide  from  under  water.  Houston  and  Thompson  (1874)  made  similar  obser- 
vations with  phosphorus  treated  with  hot  potassa  solution,  and  regard  this  oil  as  a modi- 
fication of  ordinary  phosphorus.  The  boiling-point  of  phosphorus  is  288°  C.  (550°  F.), 
according  to  Dalton ; 290°.  C.  (554°  F.),  Hager.  Mitscherlich  found  it  at  260°  C.  (500°  F.) ; 
but  it  volatilizes  slowly  with  the  vapors  of  boiling  water;  the  density  of  its  vapor  is  4.3. 
According  to  Joubert,  phosphorus  is  not  luminous  in  pure  oxygen  below  14°  C.  (57°  F.) 
unless  the  pressure  be  diminished  or  the  oxygen  is  mixed  with  an  indifferent  gas ; the 
luminosity  is  prevented  in  the  presence  of  hydrogen  sulphide,  of  vapors  of  alcohol, 
ether,  and  other  compounds.  Phosphorus  is  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  fixed  and  volatile 
oils ; it  dissolves  “in  350  parts  of  absolute  alcohol  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  in  240  parts  of 
boiling  absolute  alcohol,  in  80  parts  of  absolute  ether,  in  about  50  parts  of  any  fatty 
oil.  ’ — U.  S.  It  is  more  freely  soluble  in  sulphur  chloride,  chloroform,  benzene,  and 
abundantly  so  in  carbon  disulphide,  the  latter  solution  being  extremely  inflammable. 
Phosphorus  crystallizes  after  fusion  when  slowly  cooled,  and  from  its  solutions  in  volatile 
oils  and  carbon  disulphide.  It  unites  directly  with  oxygen,  sulphur,  chlorine,  iodine, 
bromine,  and  with  many  metals,  and  precipitates  some  of  the  latter  from  their  solutions. 
M hen  kept  in  water  and  exposed  to  light  and  air  it  is  superficially  corroded,  and  becomes 
white  and  opaque  (Baudrimont,  1865),  while  phosphorous  acid  is  found  in  the  water; 
the  change  does  not  take  place  in  water  which  is  free  from  air,  nor  does  phosphorus  lose 
its  transparency  when  kept  in  the  dark.  This  is  due  to  the  presence  of  a black  body 
which  is  rather  more  volatile  than  ordinary  phosphorus.  Commercial  phosphorus  fre- 
quently contains  a little  arsenic,  from  which  it  cannot  be  freed  by  distillation. 

77  J 


1218 


PHOSPHORUS. 


Amorphous  or  Red  Phosphorus. — This  was  discovered  by  Schrotter  (1848)  by  heating 
ordinary  or  vitreous  phosphorus  for  a long  time  to  250°-260°  C.  (482°-500°  F.)  in  an  atmo- 
sphere in  which  it  cannot  burn.  It  is  an  amorphous  dark-red  mass  or  powder,  becomes 
nearly  black  on  being  boiled  with  potassa  solution,  is  insoluble  in  simple  solvents, 
remains  unaltered  in  dry  air,  and  enters  into  chemical  combinations  less  readily  than 
the  ordinary  variety.  According  to  Hittorf  (1865),  it  has  the  specific  gravity  2.19,  is 
infusible,  volatilizes  slowly  above  260°  C.  (500°  F.),  and,  according  to  Lemoine  (1867), 
is  best  converted  into  ordinary  or  vitreous  phosphorus  by  heating  to  near  450°  C.  (842° 
F.)  in  an  atmosphere  of  nitrogen.  At  the  temperature  stated  Hittorf  observed  it  to  be 
converted  into  another  modification,  which  forms  black  laminae  of  a metallic  lustre,  is 
less  volatile  even  than  amorphous  phosphorus,  but,  like  the  latter,  is  gradually  converted 
by  heat  into  ordinary  vitreous  phosphorus. 

Black  Phosphorus. — As  far  back  as  1800  it  was  reported  that  phosphorus  when 
treated  with  ammonia  gas  would  deposit  a brownish-black  powder ; the  same  phenomenon 
was  observed  later  on  by  Thenard,  Vogel,  Wild,  and  in  1865  by  Blondlot.  Prof.  Fliickiger, 
who  carefully  examined  the  subject  in  1892,  has  come  to  the  conclusion  that  the  so-called 
black  modification  of  phosphorus  is  nothing  but  arsenic  in  metallic  form  ; by  treating 
ordinary  phosphorus  repeatedly  with  ammonia-water  of  0.920  sp.  grav.  until  all  phos- 
phorus has  been  removed,  mainly  in  form  of  phosphine,  a black  residue  in  powder  form 
eventually  remains,  which  is  permanent  in  the  air  and  was  proven  to  be  arsenic  (ArcA. 
d.  Phar .,  1892). 

Tests. — The  impurities  likely  to  be  present  in  phosphorus  are  derived  from  the  sul- 
phuric acid  used  in  its  preparation,  and  are  mainly  arsenic  and  sulphur ; a small  propor- 
tion of  the  latter  renders  phosphorus  hard  and  rather  brittle  at  ordinary  temperatures.  , 
“ If  3 Glm.  of  phosphorus  contained  in  a flask  be  digested  at  a gentle  heat  with  a mixture 
of  15  Cc.  of  nitric  acid  and  15  Cc.  of  distilled  water  until  it  is  completely  dissolved,  the 
solution  evaporated  until  no  more  nitrous  vapors  are  given  off,  then  diluted  with  distilled 
water  to  the  measure  of  about  30  Cc.,  hydrogen  sulphide  passed  through  20  Cc.  of  the  : 
liquid  while  being  heated  for  half  an  hour  at  about  70°  C.  (158°  F.),  and  afterward  until 
the  liquid  has  become  cold,  not  more  than  a trifling  quantity  of  a lemon-yellow  precipi-  , 
tate  should  appear  after  the  lapse  of  twenty-four  hours  (limit  of  arsenic).  On  adding  . 
barium  chloride  test-solution  to  the  remainder  of  the  liquid,  not  more  than  a slight 
opalescence  should  be  produced  (limit  of  sulphur).” — U.  S. 

Compounds  of  Phosphorus. — Hypophosphorous  Acid,  H3P02  (molecular 
weight  65.88),  is  formed  by  boiling  phosphorus  with  milk  of  lime  (see  page  68)  and 
under  other  circumstances.  In  its  purest  state  it  forms  a thick  uncrystallizable  liquid:  , 

Phosphorous  Acid,  H3P03  (molecular  weight  81.84),  is  formed  on  the  slow  oxidation 
of  phosphorus  in  moist  air,  and  forms  a crystalline  deliquescent  mass.  If  phosphorus  | 
is  slowly  burned  with  a very  limited  supply  of  dry  air,  phosphorous  oxide  or  anhydride, 
P203,  is  formed  as  a voluminous  flocculent  powder,  which  liquefies  in  the  air  by  the 
absorption  of  moisture,  and  is  gradually  oxidized  to  phosphoric  acid,  or,  heated  in  a close  r 
vessel,  is  decomposed  into  phosphoric  acid  and  hydrogen  phosphide. 

Phosphoric  oxide,  P205  (molecular  weight  141.72),  and  phosphoric  acid  are  described 
on  page  82. 

Phosphorous  acid  and  phosphites  are  rarely,  if  ever,  employed  in  medicine.  The 
phosphates  and  hypophosphites,  which  are  sometimes  used,  are  described  under  their 
appropriate  heads.  Of  other  chemical  compounds  only  zinc  phosphide  has  been 
employed. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  first  employment  of  phosphorus  in  medicine  is  ascribed  by 
some  to  Kinkel  in  1721,  and  by  others  to  Mentz  in  1751.  After  them  it  was  advocated 
from  time  to  time  during  the  last  and  the  early  part  of  the  present  century,  and  the  most 
extravagant  statements  were  published  of  its  life-giving  powers ; but  the  numerous,  and 
generally  unforeseen,  accidents  that  sometimes  followed  its  administration  caused  it  to  be 
abandoned  as  a medicine,  and  to  retain  its  interest  for  physicians  chiefly  through  its 
operation  as  a poison.  Within  the  last  few  years  it  has  once  more  risen  into  notice — in  a 
great  measure,  we  must  believe,  through  the  influence  of  those  chemico-physiological 
doctrines  which  still  prevail,  and  the  predominant  part  which  the  nervous  system  holds 
in  the  medical  theories  of  the  day,  and  possibly  also  because  an  increased  number  of 
nervous  diseases  is  chargeable  to  the  augmented  luxury  and  wear  and  tear  of  modern  lile. 

The  following  are  the  principal  phenomena  of  acute  phosphorus-poisoning  : The  first 
is  usually  a burning  pain  in  the  stomach  and  vomiting  of  matters  which  are  more  or  less 
luminous  in  the  dark.  The  heat  extends  to  the  whole  abdomen,  which  may  be  tender 


PHOSPHOR  ITS. 


1219 


under  pressure ; the  stools  are  loose,  dark,  bloody,  and  sometimes  phosphorescent,  and 
are  voided  with  pain.  The  pulse  and  temperature  are  generally  raised  at  first,  but  sub- 
sequently fall  below  the  normal  standard.  Usually,  there  is  general  nervous  excitement, 
sometimes  headache,  giddiness,  fainting,  sleeplessness,  delirium,  spasms,  convulsions,  fol- 
lowed by  collapse,  coma,  coldness  of  the  extremities,  strabismus,  and  dilatation  of  the 
pupils.  In  other  instances  death  is  owing  to  exhaustion,  the  mind  remaining  clear. 
Meanwhile,  from  the  second  to  the  fourth  day  there  is  pain  in  the  liver,  with  dark  jaun- 
dice, and  blood  is  passed  by  stool  and  in  the  urine,  and  may  exhale  from  the  gums  or 
appear  in  ecchymoses  of  the  skin.  The  urine  is  albuminous.  After  death  the  interior 
of  the  body  is  everywhere  phosphorescent  in  the  dark ; the  stomach  is  seldom  widely 
inflamed,  but  chiefly  in  the  pyloric  extremity,  where  there  may  also  be  some  ulceration, 
and  the  organ  is  apt  to  contain  a bloody  liquid.  Sanguineous  effusions  are  also  found  in 
other  organs.  The  blood  is  dark  and  thick,  but,  according  to  most  authorities,  not  easily 
disintegrated,  and  it  contains  an  undue  proportion  of  tissue-waste  in  the  form  of  uric 
acid,  creatine,  etc.  The  liver  is  of  a light-yellow  color,  and  it,  as  well  as  the  heart,  cap- 
illary vessels,  and  kidneys,  shows  more  or  less  distinct  signs  of  fatty  degeneration.  The 
symptoms  of  chronic  phosphorus-poisoning — as  they  occur,  for  instance,  among  lucifer- 
match  makers — are  briefly  these  : Bronchial  irritation  and  dyspepsia ; a straw-colored  or 
grayish  tint  of  the  skin  ; extreme  sensitiveness  to  cold  ; formication  ; stiffness  and  numb- 
ness of  the  limbs ; softening,  abscess,  and  ulceration  of  the  gums ; loss,  and  sometimes 
decay,  of  the  teeth,  with  caries  and  necrosis  of  the  jaw-bones.  Usually  there  is  hectic 
fever,  and  if  the  patient  continue  to  work  in  phosphorus  until  its  effects  are  fully  devel- 
oped, he  is  worn  out  by  them  or  dies  of  consumption  of  the  lungs.  Phosphorus-necrosis 
of  the  jaws  has  been  illustrated  by  Dr.  J.  Ewing  Hears  ( Phila . Med.  Times , xvi.  264). 
In  a case  of  poisoning  with  lucifer  matches  phosphorus  was  found  in  the  body  three 
months  after  death  ( Virchow  s Archiv , lxxxiii.  501).  (For  several  later  cases  of  phos- 
phorus-poisoning see  Huber,  Zeitsch.f.  klin.  Med .,  xiv.  479  ; Tlierap.  Monatsh .,  Mar.  1889, 
p.  126 ; Grose,  Lancet , Nov.,  1889,  p.  902.) 

Phosphorus  has  been  employed  chiefly  in  the  treatment  of  diseases  of  the  nervous  sys- 
tem. It  is  useless,  if  not  mischievous,  in  epilepsy.  In  paralysis  following  cerebral  haem- 
orrhage or  embolism,  or  their  frequent  consequence,  softening,  improvement  may  be 
attributed  to  phosphorus  in  the  first  case  alone.  But  its  value  becomes  more  than  doubt- 
ful when  the  tendency  to  spontaneous  cure  after  this  accident  is  borne  in  mind.  Possibly 
its  stimulant  influence  may  quicken  the  operations  of  repair,  but  not  without  the  risk  of 
increasing  the  mischief.  The  same  statement  is  essentially  true  of  spinal  paralysis;  but 
as  this  affection  is  not,  like  the  other,  always  associated  with  a substantial  lesion,  the 
cases  of  paraplegia  benefited  by  phosphorus  are  numerous  enough  to  deserve  a certain 
consideration.  The  same  statement  is  applicable  to  locomotor  ataxia.  The  persistent  but 
moderate  and  interrupted  use  of  phosphorus  has  unquestionably  in  a few  instances  tem- 
porarily improved  the  power  of  locomotion  in  this  disease,  but  it  has  not,  any  more  than 
other  remedies,  effected  a cure.  In  regard  to  this  class  of  diseases  it  may  well  be  said : 
“ Phosphorus  is  a rapid  stimulant,  but  it  acts  by  causing  waste,  and  not  by  increasing 
power  ; it  impoverishes,  and  does  not  enrich.  It  momentarily  galvanizes,  as  it  were,  the 
torpid  functions,  but  is  incapable  of  renewing  a dilapidated  constitution,  or  even  a nervous 
system  exhausted  by  chronic  disease  ” (Gubler).  Although  in  former  years  phosphorus 
was  alleged  to  have  cured  neuralgia , it  is  only  of  late  that  it  has  been  asserted  to  operate 
“ with  a rapidity,  a certainty,  and  a permanency  unequalled  by  the  action  of  any  other 
medicine  in  this  or  any  other  disorder  ” (Thompson).  It  is  said  to  exhibit  its  virtues 
most  conspicuously — indeed  to  be  “ apparently  specific  ” — in  neuralgia  attended  with 
extreme  debility  produced  by  haemorrhage,  lactation,  etc.  when  the  pain  follows  on 
exposure  to  cold,  and  especially  when  it  affects  the  fifth  nerve.  Doses  less  than  Gm. 
0.005  (gr.  yL)  of  phosphorus  every  four  hours  are  said  to  be  inefficient,  and  it  is  added 
that  if  relief  does  not  ensue  in  twenty-four  hours,  it  is  useless  to  persevere  in  this  treat- 
ment. It  is  singular  that  if  the  medicine  possesses  such  remarkable  powers,  they  should 
not  have  been  recognized  and  described  by  other  observers.  But  notwithstanding  the 
extreme  frequency  and  intractability  of  this  disease,  phosphorus  is  not  usually  employed 
by  physicians  who  have  had  the  largest  experience  in  its  treatment.  In  certain  cases  of 
neuralgia  of  the  heart,  or  simple  angina  pectoris , it  is  alleged  to  have  entirely  suspended 
the  attacks.  It  has  been  used  with  probable  advantage  in  chronic  psoriasis , lepra , lupus, 
etc.,  but  can  seldom  be  necessary  unless  after  the  failure  of  more  usual  remedies.  It  was 
also  credited  with  the  cure  of  pernicious  anaemia  and  splenic  leucocythsemia,  but  a more 
extended  and  critical  inquiry  proved  it  to  be  useless. 


1220 


PHYSOSTIGMA. 


There  is  some  reason  to  believe  that  this  medicine  may  be  serviceable  in  functional 
asthenic  amaurosis , but  in  no  other  form  of  that  defect  of  vision.  In  melancholia,  and 
even  in  dementia,  it  is  alleged  to  be  useful ; and  still  more  so  in  that  state  of  nervous 
exhaustion  and  depression  which  follows  excessive  mental  or  even  physical  fatigue.  In 
the  latter  case  there  is  a rational  as  well  as  an  empirical  ground  for  supposing  that  it 
may  occasionally  do  good.  In  regard  to  the  reputed  aphrodisiac  action  of  phosphorus 
authorities  differ ; for  while  one  of  its  most  moderate  expositors  (Lcmaire)  declares  that 
if  any  power  belongs  to  the  drug  it  is  certainly  this,  the  most  extravagant  of  its  eulogists 
(Thompson)  concludes  that  phosphorus  is  not  an  aphrodisiac,  unless  given  in  a larger 
dose  than  it  is  safe  to  employ  for  remedial  purposes.  In  poisonous  doses  it  certainly 
exerts  this  power  upon  man  and  animals,  hut  only  as  a transient  influence  which  is  soon 
succeeded  by  general  insensibility. 

Kassowitz  claimed  ( Zeitsch . f.  Min.  Med.,  vii.  36,  193)  to  have  found  in  phosphorus  a 
more  efficient  remedy  for  rachitis  than  any  that  has  been  hitherto  employed,  and  yet  he 
administered  it  in  the  minute  dose  of  i Mgm.  (gr.  y^g)  a day.  A wider  experience  of 
its  use  has  proved  it  to  be  of  little  value  in  this  disease  (Comby,  Archives  gen.,  1888,  i. 
627  ; Schabanowa,  Therapeut.  Monatsh.,  iii.  423). 

In  poisoning  by  phosphorus  it  has  been  usual  to  administer  lime-water,  magnesia,  or 
charcoal,  with  the  intention  of  producing  its  chemical  combination  with  the  two  first-men- 
tioned substances,  and  its  mechanical  mixture  with  the  last.  It  should  be  borne  in  mind, 
however,  that  phosphorus  does  not  act  primarily  as  a corrosive  poison,  like  several  acids, 
and  that  its  local  gastric  lesions  are  quite  disproportioned  to  those  which  are  due  to  its 
absorption.  It  may  also  be  remarked  that,  under  ordinary  circumstances,  the  contents 
of  the  stomach  do  not  favor  the  combustion  of  phosphorus.  Oil  of  turpentine  has  been 
proved  by  numerous  experiments  and  by  some  clinical  observations  to  be  capable  of 
arresting  the  poisonous  phenomena  ( Guy's  Hosp.  Rep.,  xli.  13).  It  should  be  adminis- 
tered in  doses  of  from  15  to  30  drops  every  half  hour  for  several  hours,  and  meanwhile 
all  albuminous  and  oily  substances  should  be  withheld.  An  agent  the  very  opposite  in 
its  chemical  properties  to  this  hydrocarbon  has  been  recommended  by  Percy,  who  claims 
that  oxygenated  water  by  the  stomach  and  the  inhalation  of  oxygen  gas  are  the  true 
antidotes  to  phosphorus,  by  converting  it  into  hypophosphorous  and  phosphoric  acids, 
which  are  comparatively  innocuous.  • This  conclusion  is  supported  by  experiments  on  ani- 
mals. Still  more  recently  potassium  chlorate  has  appeared  to  have  an  antidotal  and  cura- 
tive effect  (imer.  Jour,  of  Med.  Sci.,  Oct.  1882,  p.  575). 

The  dose  of  phosphorus  is  variously  stated  as  between  Gm.  0.002-0.016  (gr. 

Those  who  have  most  advocated  its  use  recommend  that  a first  dose  of  Gm.  0.003  (gr.  yL) 
should  be  repeated  every  four  hours  until  six  doses  are  taken.  If  then  no  improvement 
has  occurred,  the  dose  should  be  increased  to  Gm.  0.005  (gr.  ff),  and  repeated  in  the 
same  manner  as  before.  Of  the  authorities  in  this  matter  some  recommend  that  the 
medicine  should  be  given  before  and  some  after  meals.  Phosphorus  was  originally 
administered  in  ether  or  alcohol,  and  more  recently  dissolved  in  almond  oil,  olive  oil,  cod- 
liver  oil,  glycerin,  chloroform,  etc.,  or  mixed  with  cocoa  butter,  wax,  soap,  spermaceti, 
and  formed  into  pills  coated  with  gelatin ; or,  finally,  in  capsules  containing  phosphorized 
oil  (1  : 100).  Each  capsule  should  contain  1 Mgm.  (gr.  -Jy)  of  phosphorus.  The  fol- 
lowing formula  has  been  recommended:  R.  Phosphori  gr.  ij  ; Carbon,  bisulphid.  q.  s. ; 
solve ; Saponis,  Guaiaci  resinae,  aa  gr.  xxxv ; Glycerinae  gtt.  xij  ; Pulv.  rad.  glycyrrhiz. 
gr.  xij. — M.  Ft.  mass.  Divide  into  pills  of  the  required  strength  and  coat  with  gelatin 
or  varnish. 


j 

1 


PHYSOSTIGMA,  77.  Physostigma. 

Physostigmatis  semen,  Br. ; Faba  calabarica. — Calabar  bean,  Ordeal  bean , E. ; Feve  de 
Calabar , Fr. ; Kalabarbohne,  G. ; Haba  de  Calabar,  Sp. 

The  seed  of  Physostigma  venenosum,  Balfour.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  80. 

Nat.  Ord. — Leguminosse,  Papilionacese. 

Origin. — This  plant  is  a woody  climber  growing  near  the  mouths  of  the  Niger  and  of 
Old  Calabar  River  in  Western  Africa,  and  attaining  a length  of  12  or  15  M.  (40  or  50 
feet).  It  somewhat  resembles  the  scarlet  runner  or  Spanish  bean  of  our  gardens.  The 
purple  flowers  are  in  pendulous  racemes,  originating  from  tubercular  knots  to  the  number 
of  two  or  three.  The  curved  style  bears  at  its  apex  a triangular  fleshy  reflexed  append- 
age. The  pale-brown,  reticulately-veined  legumes  contain  two  or  three  seeds.  The  plant 
was  described  by  Balfour  in  1861,  and  has  been  introduced  into  India  and  Brazil. 


PHYSOSTIGMA. 


1221 


Description. — The  seeds  are  25-30  Mm.  (1  to  \\  inches)  long,  15-20  Mm.  (|-  to  £ 
inch)  broad,  and  10-15  Mm.  (§  to  f inch)  thick,  oblong,  and  more  or  less  reniform  in 
shape.  A well-marked  black  furrow,  the  liilum,  with  a ridged  border,  extends  along  the 
convex  edge  from  one  extremity  of  the  seed  to  the  other,  and  contains  in  the  centre  the 
thread-like  raphe.  The  seed  has  a brittle',  somewhat  polished,  granular  testa  of  a choco- 
late-brown color,  two  white  cotyledons  adhering  to  the  testa  and  concave  upon  the  inner 
surface,  thus  enclosing  a rather  large  cavity  ; along  the  hilum  each  cotyledon  is  marked 
with  a long  shallow  black  groove.  The  short  radicle  is  situated  at  one  end,  and  its  posi- 
tion is  externally  indicated  by  the  small  depressed  micropyle.  Calabar  beans  are  inodor- 
ous, but  on  the  evaporation  of  the  tincture  an  odor  resembling  that  of  cantharides  is 
given  off.  Their  taste  is  nearly  like  that  of  the  ordinary  bean.  On  being  moistened  with 
potassa  solution  the  cotyledons  become  pale-yellow. 

The  seed  of  another  species  was  observed  by  Holmes  (1879)  among  the  commercial 
drug.  The  plant  was  described  by  Oliver  as  Mucuna  cylindrosperma,  Welwitsch,  but 
should  evidently  be  called  Physostigma  cylindrosperma.  The  seeds  are  about  44  Mm. 
(If  inches)  long,  nearly  cylindrical,  of  a dark  reddish-brown  color,  and  have  a shorter 
hilum,  not  extending  quite  to  the  end  where  the  micropyle  is  visible.  The  cotyledons 
acquire  with  alkalies  a deep-yellow  color. 

Constituents. — The  poisonous  principle  of  Calabar  bean  is  the  alkaloid  pliyso- 
stigmine , which  was  isolated  by  Jobst  and  Hesse  (1864),  and  by  the  latter  (1867)  ascer- 
tained to  have  the  composition  C15H21N302.  Vee  (1865)  proposed  to  call  the  alkaloid 
eserine.  It  is  obtained  by  mixing  powdered  Calabar  bean  with  1 per  cent,  of  tartaric 
acid,  exhausting  with  alcohol,  evaporating  the  solvent,  treating  the  residue  with  water, 


Fig.  208. 


Calabar  Bean  : view  from  the  side  and 
edge,  showing  length  of  hilum. 


agitating  the  filtrate  with  ether  as  long  as  the  latter  becomes  colored,  then  supersaturat- 
ing with  potassium  or  sodium  bicarbonate,  and  again  agitating  with  ether  ; on  evaporating 
the  ether  physostigmine  is  left  behind  in  a colorless,  amorphous  condition.  The  crystals 
obtained  by  Vee  were  isolated  by  Hesse  (1877)  and  found  to  be  physosterin.  an  indiffer- 
ent body  resembling  cholesterin,  and  crystallizing  from  ether,  chloroform,  and  petroleum 
benzin  in  silky  needles,  and  from  hot  alcohol  in  scales.  Physostigmine  becomes  soft  at 
40°  C.  (104°  F.),  and  is  liquid  at  45°  C.  (113°  F.)  ; it  is  readily  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether, 
benzene,  carbon  disulphide,  and  chloroform,  less  freely  so  in  water,  and  neutralizes  acids 
completely  ; it  even  precipitates  ferric  hydroxide  from  a solution  of  ferric  chloride.  The 
pure  alkaloid  and  its  salts  are  tasteless  ; their  solutions  yield  with  Mayer’s  reagent  a white 
precipitate  which  is  readily  soluble  in  ether  and  alcohol  and  crystallizes  from  the  latter  in 
prisms.  Physostigmine  is  colored  red  by  chlorinated  lime,  and  becomes  colorless  again 
by  more  of  the  reagent.  Nitric  acid  dissolves  the  alkaloid  with  a yellow  color,  sulphuric 
acid  with  yellow,  turning  olive-green.  On  adding  excess  of  ammonia  to  the  solution  of 
a salt  and  heating  the  mixture  upon  a water-bath,  the  liquid  turns  successively  red, 
orange-red,  yellow,  green,  and  blue.  Alkalies  color  solutions  of  physostigmine  red.  pro- 
ducing the  rubreserine  of  Duquesnel.  and  if  now  agitated  with  ether  the  ethereal  solu- 
tion will  become  blue  or  red  on  the  addition  of  dilute  sulphuric  acid,  the  color  depending 
on  the  degree  of  decomposition  undergone  by  the  alkaloid.  The  formation  of  rubrese- 
rine can  be  seen  even  in  a dilution  of  1 to  64,000  if  the  reaction  is  obtained  on  a white 
porcelain  dish  (Eber,  1888).  Rubreserine  crystallizes  from  its  solution  in  chloroform, 
and,  according  to  Harnack  and  Witkowski  (1880).  is  insoluble  in  pure  ether  ; its  red  color 


1222 


PITYSOSTTGMA. 


disappears  in  presence  of  sulphurous  acid,  but  reappears  on  the  evaporation  of  the  latter. 
Physostigmina  is  official  in  Br.  P. 

Harnack  and  Witkowski  (1876)  succeeded  in  isolating  a second  alkaloid,  calabarine , 
which  produces  tetanic  effects  in  cold-blooded  animals.  It  is  obtained  from  the  liquid 
from  which  physostigmine  has  been  separated  by  precipitating  it  with  lead  subacetate 
and  ammonia,  evaporating  the  filtrate,  treating  the  residue  with  alcohol,  precipitating 
with  phosphotungstic  acid,  and  decomposing  with  baryta.  This  alkaloid  is  soluble  in 
alcohol  and  water,  insoluble  in  ether,  and  its  mercuric  double  iodide  is  insoluble  in  water 
and  alcohol.  Subsequently  (1880)  the  same  authors  ascertained  that  calabarine  is 
formed  in  solutions  of  physostigmine;  for  instance,  under  the  long-continued  influence 
of  hvdriodic  acid. 

According  to  Teich  (1867),  Calabar  bean  contains  48  per  cent,  of  starch,  3.65  of  nitro- 
gen, indicating  about  23  per  cent,  of  proteids,  and  3 per  cent,  of  ash,  chiefly  phosphate 
of  potassium.  Mucilage  and  a small  quantity  of  fat  are  likewise  present.  The  alkaloids 
appear  to  exist  mainly  in  the  cotyledons,  but  the  testa  likewise  possesses  medicinal 
activity. 

Adulterations  of  Calabar  bean  have  not  been  observed  by  us.  The  seeds  of  a 
Mucuna  (cylindrosperma  ?)  and  of  the  oil  palm  have  been  mentioned,  but  bear  no  resem- 
blance to  the  official  article. 

Action  and  Uses. — (For  an  account  of  this  substance  as  an  “ ordeal  bean  ” see 
Stille,  Therapeutics , e/c.,  4th  ed.,  ii.  320.)  In  excessive  but  not  fatal  doses  physostigma 
causes  pallor  of  the  skin,  giddiness,  weakness  and  faintness,  indistinctness  of  vision,  con- 
traction of  the  pupils,  nausea  or  vomiting,  an  accumulation  of  liquid  in  the  mouth,  a feeble 
but  rapid  and  tumultuous  action  of  the  heart,  and  a total  inability  to  perform  voluntary 
muscular  acts.  The  muscles  twitch,  but  there  is  a complete  absence  of  pain  in  them  and 
elsewhere.  The  contraction  of  the  sphincters  caused  by  it  has  induced  retention  of  urine. 

In  a few  fatal  cases  of  poisoning  by  this  substance  the  following  characteristic  effects 
have  been  observed  : Extreme  muscular  relaxation  and  debility,  salivation,  urgent  nausea 
and  vomiting  ; a slow,  feeble,  and  almost  insensible  pulse,  with  coldness  of  the  extremities 
and  of  the  skin,  which  is  covered  with  a cholera-like  sweat.  Some  colic  may  be  felt  at  first, 
but  generally  no  pain  is  experienced,  although  a distressing  oppression  of  the  chest  is  com- 
plained of.  The  pupils  are  not  usually  contracted.  There  is  much  vomiting  and  purg- 
ing, the  respiration  is  rattling,  and  the  face  livid.  Consciousness-  remains  until  death, 
which  occurs  without  a struggle.  It  is  probable  that  the  whole  chain  of  toxical  phe- 
nomena occasioned  by  this  substance  is  more  readily  explained  by  its  immediate  action 
upon  the  muscles  or  upon  the  nervous  branches  supplying  them  than  by  its  operation  upon  < 

the  spinal  axis.  This  conclusion  is  supported  by  the  results  of  its  direct  application  to 
the  eye.  It  then  produces  a marked  contraction  of  the  pupil,  which  may  last  in  a high  \ 
degree  for  twelve  to  fourteen  hours,  and  less  conspicuously  for  several  days.  But  the 
effect  is  confined  to  one  eye  if  the  application  is  limited  to  one ; and  if  it  be  made  also  to 
the  corresponding  eyelids,  they  become  paralyzed,  but  no  general  symptoms  are  exhibited.  1 
It  seems  probable  that  pupillary  contraction  by  this  substance  is  due  to  its  dilating  the 
blood-vessels  of  the  iris,  just  as  dilatation  of  the  pupil  by  atropine  is  caused  by  its  power 
of  contracting  the  same  blood-vessels.  It  is  true  that  Falck  states  as  the  inevitable  infer- 
ence from  experiments  that  physostigmine  (eserine)  acts  as  a stimulant  upon  the  sphincter 
muscle  of  the  iris  (Antagonismus  der  Gifte , 1879).  It  is  also  true  that  neither  of  these 
antagonistic  explanations  affects  the  fact  that  eserine  contracts  the  pupil. 

Physostigma  is  frequently  employed  to  contract  the  pupil ; for  example  : “ In  mydriasis 
dependent  upon  the  over-action  of  belladonna  or  as  a symptom  of  amaurosis ; in  intis 
and  inflammation  of  the  neighboring  structures,  where  the  prevention  of  adhesions  may 
be  more  successfully  secured  by  an  alternation  of  contraction  and  dilatation  than  by 
dilatation  alone ; in  injuries  of  the  eyeball  with  displacement  of  the  iris,  etc.”  It  favors 
the  healing  of  corneal  ulcers , such  as  so  frequently  occur  in  strumous  children  and  are 
accompanied  with  extreme  photophobia  that  maintains  a constant  irritation  of  the  eye ; 
and  when  perforation  of  the  cornea  occurs  it  also  prevents  prolapse  of  the  iris.  Even 
when  this  accident  takes  place  eserine  is  the  best  agent  for  extricating  the  hernia  of  the 
iris.  Sometimes  the  alternate  action  of  atropine  and  eserine  is  better  than  that  of  either 
alone.  It  has  been  recommended  in  some  cases  of  dislocated  lens.  In  photophobia 
depending  upon  asthenia,  and  therefore  on  irritability  of  the  nerves  of  the  eye,  eserine 
is  very  useful,  and  may  render  the  employment  of  shades,  dark  rooms,  etc.  superfluous. 

It  is  equally  so  in  paralysis  of  accommodation  of  the  iris,  such  as  follows  diphtheria  and 
other  debilitating  disorders.  In  the  opinion  of  ophthalmologists  eserine  is  a valuable  pal- 


PHY  SO  STIGMA. 


1223 


liative  of  glaucoma.  It  combats  “ the  particular  displacement  of  the  iris  which  is  often 
the  cause  of  the  tension  ” (Priestley  Smith),  but  is  not  in  any  sense  a substitute  for  the 
operation  of  iridectomy.  The  operation  of  iridectomy  is  facilitated  by  the  tension  and 
increase  of  surface  which  the  iris,  under  the  use  of  this  medicine,  presents.  Night-blind- 
ness has  been  successfully  treated  by  instillations  of  a solution  of  eserine,  which  is  sup- 
posed to  act  by  augmenting  the  vascularity  of  the  retina.  When  the  sight  is  impaired 
by  paralytic  dilatation  of  the  iris  this  medicine  is  a useful  palliative  of  the  defect.  Of  all 
the  medicines  which  have  cured  tetanus , physostigma  certainly  holds  the  first  place.  In 
1874  an  analysis  of  published  cases  showed  that  out  of  sixty -three  cases  of  traumatic 
tetanus  treated  by  this  medicine  thirty-three  recovered.  Since  then  this  unusual  propor- 
tion of  cures  of  a disease  which  was  before  nearly  always  fatal  has  been  considerably 
increased.  When  the  treatment  has  failed,  as  has  often  happened,  the  failure  has  been 
mainly  attributable  to  an  inefficient  use  of  the  remedy,  but  sometimes  also  to  its  employ- 
ment having  been  too  long  delayed.  The  more  recent  experience  of  its  use  in  tetanus 
fully  confirms  the  judgment  here  expressed  (Minor,  Med.  News,  Pec.  29,  1888).  The 
minimum  dose  of  extract  of  physostigma  which  should  first  be  administered  is  Gm.  0.02 
(gr.  I).  It  should  be  repeated  every  quarter  of  an  hour  until  its  specific  operation  is 
developed  and  the  spasms  are  completely  overcome.  This  effect  should  be  steadily  main- 
tained, and  then  reproduced  as  often  as  spasms  recur.  It  is  usually  necessary  to  increase 
the  dose  in  order  to  maintain  the  original  impression.  Several  German  physicians  have 
used  this  agent  to  overcome  passive  dilatation  of  the  intestine,  especially  in  cases  of  fecal 
accumulation.  Subbotin  used  for  this  purpose  the  following : R.  Ext.  physostigmat., 
Gm.  0.10  (gr.  i)  ; Glycerin,  Gm.  20.0  (f^v).  Bose,  10  drops.  An  objection  to  this 
medicine  is,  that  its  action  is  likely  to  continue  longer  than  necessary,  and  also  that  it 
leaves  the  bowel  more  confined  than  at  first.  Eschle  found  eserine  efficient  in  combating 
various  diarrhoeal  affections  ( Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  July,  1883,  p.  41),  which  it 
may  be  presumed  to  do  by  contracting  the  blood-vessels  of  the  intestine.  Hiller  has 
suggested  that  in  epidemic  cholera  this  spastic  action  of  the  drug  might  be  utilized  to 
prevent  the  colliquative  discharges,  or  rather  the  profuse  secretion  that  produces  them. 
But  the  method  seems  too  mechanical.  Moreover,  it  could  only  have  a chance  of  acting 
in  the  early  stage  of  the  attack.  DaCosta  and  also  Murrell  have  used  physostigma  to 
counteract  colliquative  sweats  in  the  dose  of  gr.  of  the  extract,  and  eserine  in  the 
dose  of  -gY  gr.  In  a tetanoid  disease  known  as  tonic  convulsion  the  medicine  has  also  been 
successfully  employed.  Its  efficacy  in  strychnine-poisoning  is  not  so  well  established,  and 
in  chorea  it  so  generally  fails  that  its  use  is  hardly  warrantable  unless  in  very  prolonged 
and  obstinate  cases.  (Compare  Riess,  Centralbl.  f.  Ther.,  v.  377.) 

The  physiological  antagonism  between  physostigma  and  belladonna  has  been  illustrated 
by  the  neutralization  of  the  poisonous  effects  of  the  latter  by  the  former  medicine.  But 
as  fatal  poisoning  by  belladonna  is  exceedingly  rare,  the  practical  value  of  the  antidote  is 
very  small.  That  poisoning  by  physostigma  is  neutralized  by  the  hypodermic  injection 
of  atropine  has  been  abundantly  demonstrated  by  experiments  upon  man.  The  antagonism 
is  not  so  evident  in  similar  experiments  upon  rabbits. 

Physostigma  has  been  found  useful  internally  as  a palliative  of  gastralgia,  and  topically 
its  tincture  is  distinctly  anodyne  in  neuralgia  and  muscular  rheumatism  and  in  cases  of 
painful  malignant  tumors. 

As  antidotes  to  the  poisonous  effects  of  physostigma,  atropine  should  be  used  hypodermic- 
ally. while  coffee  and  alcoholic  and  other  diffusible  stimulants  are  internally  administered. 
If  the  patient  is  unable  to  swallow,  artificial  respiration  should  be  maintained,  mechanic- 
ally as  well  as  by  means  of  induced  electricity,  and  the  use  of  atropine  persisted  in.  The 
hypodermic  dose  of  the  latter  should  not  be  less  than  Gm.  0.002  grain). 

The  commencing  dose  of  the  powdered  bean  is  about  1 grain  ; of  the  official  extract, 
about  Gm.  0.006  (yL  grain);  of  the  officinal  tincture,  about  10  minims.  For  external 
use  a solution  of  1 part  of  the  alcoholic  extract  in  5 parts  of  glycerin  has  been  employed. 
In  affections  of  the  eye  this  solution  is  applied  on  little  disks  of  gelatin  or  of  paper  that 
have  been  soaked  in  it.  Eserine  may  be  applied  to  the  eye  in  its  original  state  or  as  a 
hydrochlorate  in  a solution  containing  1 part  to  1000.  Internally,  it  may  be  given  in 
the  dose  of  from  Gm.  0.001—0.005  (gr.  to  ff). 

Doundake  (said  to  be  a shrub  of  the  Rubiaceae  family,  and  found  on  the  western  coast 
of  Africa)  and  its  organic  base  doundakine , given  to  frogs  hypodermically,  produce  either 
a paralytic  or  a cataleptic  condition,  and  kill  by  suspending  the  respiration  without  affect- 
ing the  heart  {Med.  News,  xliii.  265).  The  bark  has  a very  bitter  taste,  and  is  employed 
by  the  natives  as  a febrifuge.  (See  page  430.) 


1224  PHYSOSTIGMINE  SA LICYLAS.— PHYSOSTIGMINE  sulphas. 


In  1880,  Tanret  described  the  effects  of  cedrine  and  valdivine,  the  active  principles  of 
the  fruits  of  Simaba  cedron  and  Picrolemma  valdivia , products  of  Colombia,  S.  A.  Val- 
divine has  been  found  by  Dujardin-Beaumetz  and  Restrepo  to  be  a mortal  poison  to  rab- 
bits and  dogs.  It  is  peculiar  in  the  slowness  with  which  its  symptoms  are  developed  even 
when  used  in  fatal  doses.  In  dogs  it  causes  violent  and  persistent  vomiting,  and  in  rab- 
bits a deep  torpor,  which  continues  until  death  and  is  not  attended  with  convulsions.  In 
man  doses  of  Gm.  0.004  (yL  grain)  occasion  vomiting  at  the  end  of  half  an  hour.  It  was 
found  useless  in  counteracting  the  effects  of  poisonous  serpent-bites , but  in  hydrophobia  it 
prevented  the  convulsions  that  usually  precede  death.  It  does  not  seem  to  influence  the 
course  of  intermittent  fever.  Cedrine  is  much  less  poisonous  than  valvidine.  It  has 
“ unquestionable  antiperiodic  virtues,  although  they  are  feebler  and  slower  than  those  of 
quinine  ” ( Bull . de  Tlierap .,  c.  328). 

PHYSOSTIGMINE  SALICYLAS,  U.  >SG -Physostigmine  Salicylate. 

Physostigminum  ( Eserinum ) salicylicum , P.  G. — Eserine  salicylate , E. ; Salicylate  d' eserine, 

Fr. ; Physostigmin-Salicylat , G. 

Formula  C15H21N302C7H603.  Molecular  weight  412.17. 

The  salicylate  of  an  alkaloid  obtained  from  Physostigma.  It  should  be  kept  in  small, 
dark  amber-colored,  well-stoppered  vials. — U.  S. 

Preparation. — Dissolve  2 parts  of  physostigmine  and  1 part  of  pure  salicylic  acid 
in  35  parts  of  boiling  distilled  water ; strain  if  necessary,  and  set  aside  to  crystallize 
(Hager). 

Properties. — The  salt  forms  colorless  glossy  needles  or  prismatic  crystals,  which  in 
the  dry  state  remain  unaltered  for  a long  time,  even  on  exposure  to  light,  but  ultimately 
turn  reddish,  which  change  is  hastened  by  the  presence  of  ammoniacal  vapors ; its  aque- 
ous and  alcoholic  solutions,  however,  become  reddish  in  the  course  of  several  hours  after 
exposure  to  diffused  daylight,  though  the  change  occurs  less  rapidly  than  with  other  salts 
of  physostigmine.  The  salicylate  is  usually  slightly  acid,  and  dissolves  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.) 
in  12  parts  of  alcohol  and  in  130  (Hager)  or  150  ( U, . S.,  P.  G .)  parts  of  water,  and  at 
the  boiling  temperature  in  about  30  parts  of  water,  and  in  much  less  alcohol.  The  salt 
fuses  at  179°  C.  (354.2°  F.),  and  on  ignition  is  consumed  without  leaving  any  residue. 
The  aqueous  solution  of  the  salt  acquires  a violet  color  on  the  addition  of  a little  ferric 
chloride,  and  if  sufficiently  concentrated  produces  with  sulphuric  acid  a white  precipitate 
of  salicylic  acid.  The  alkaloid  is  recognized  by  decomposing  the  aqueous  solution  with 
sodium  bicarbonate  and  agitating  with  ether ; the  amorphous  residue  left  on  evaporating 
the  ethereal  solution  should  show  the  reactions  described  under  Physostigma. 

Tests. — The  salts  should  have  the  properties  described  above.  The  solution  in  strong  i 
sulphuric  acid  is  at  first  colorless,  but  becomes  yellow.  If  a minute  portion  of  the  salt 
be  added  to  a few  Cc.  of  ammonia-water  in  a small  capsule,  the  liquid  will  acquire  a 
yellowish-red  color.  On  evaporating  the  liquid  on  a water-bath,  a blue  residue  will  be 
left,  which  yields,  with  alcohol,  a blue  solution,  becoming  violet-red  upon  supersaturation 
with  acetic  acid,  and  exhibiting  a strong  reddish  fluorescence. 

Other  Salt. — Physostigmine  hydrobromas,  Physostigmine  hydrobromate.  It  is  crystalline, 
more  stable  than  the  sulphate,  but  inferior  in  this  respect  to  the  salicylate. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  salicylate  is  said  to  be  less  liable  to  decomposition  than  the 
other  salts  of  physostigmine.  It  has  been  employed  in  diarrhoea  and  in  dysentery.  If 
it  is  intended  especially  for  hypodermic  use,  its  difficult  solubility  in  water  and  its  changes 
under  the  action  of  light  render  it  of  doubtful  value  in  a permanent  solution.  It  is 
probably  better  adapted  for  solution  in  alcohol  and  water  for  instillation  into  the  eye. 

It  may  be  given  hypodermically  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.001-0.005  (gr.  Ag— J-g-).  But  Lewin 
states  Gm.  0.001  as  the  maximum  dose. 

PHYSOSTIGMINE  SULPHAS,  U.  S . — Physostigmine  Sulphate. 

Physostigminum  ( Eserinum ) sulphuricum. — Eserine  sulphate,  E.  ; Sulphate  d' eserine, 

Fr.  ; Physostigminsul/at,  G. 

Formula  (C15H2iN302)2H2S04.  Molecular  weight  646.82. 

The  sulphate  of  an  alkaloid  obtained  from  Physostigma.  It  should  be  kept  in  small 
dark  amber-colored  and  well-stoppered  vials. — U.  S. 

Properties. — The  sulphate  forms  a neutral  white  or  yellowish-white,  micro-crystal- 
line powder,  which  is  inodorous  and  possesses  a bitter  taste.  It  is  very  soluble  in  water, 


PHYTOLACCA. 


1225 


deliquescent  when  exposed  to  moist  air,  and  turns  reddish  on  exposure  to  air  and  light. 
It  is  readily  soluble  in  alcohol  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  and  more  so  in  alcohol  and  water  at  the 
boiling  temperature.  At  105°  C.  (221°  F.)  the  salt  fuses,  and  on  ignition  it  leaves  no 

residue. 

On  adding  a small  portion  of  the  salt  to  colorless  sulphuric  acid,  the  latter  should  not 
assume  a tint  deeper  than  yellow.  If  a minute  portion  of  the  salt  be  added  to  a few  Cc. 
of  ammonia-water  in  a small  capsule,  the  liquid  will  acquire  a yellowish-red  color.  On 
evaporating  this  liquid  on  a water-bath,  a blue  or  bluish-gray  residue  will  be  left,  which 
yields,  with  alcohol,  a blue  solution,  becoming  violet-red  upon  supersaturation  with  acetic 
acid,  and  exhibiting  a strong  reddish  fluorescence.  The  aqeuous  solution  of  the  salt 
yields,  with  barium  chloride  test-solution,  a white  precipitate  insoluble  in  hydrochloric 
acid. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  action,  uses,  and  dose  of  physostigmine  sulphate  may  be 
regarded  as  the  same  as  those  of  the  salicylate  ; and  this  also  may  be  said  of  the  hydro- 
chlorate  and  the  tartrate. 

PHYTOLACCA.— Phytolacca,  Poke. 

Agouman , Morelle  a grappes , Fr. ; Kermesbeere , G. ; Mazorquilla,  Namoll , Jabonera,  Sp. 

Phytolacca  decandra,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Phytolaccacese. 

1.  Phytolacca:  Radix,  U.  S.,  Phytolacca-root. — Poke-root,  E. ; Racine  de  phyto- 
laque,  Fr.  ; Kermesbeerenwurzel,  G.  The  root. 

2.  Phytolacca:  Fructus,  U.  S.,  Phytolacca-fruit. — Phytolaccas  bacca,  U.  &,  1880. — 
Pokeberry,  E.  ; Raisin  d’Amerique,  Fr.  ; Amerikanische  Kermesbeere,  G.  The  fruit. 

Origin. — Poke  or  garget  is  a perennial  herb  indigenous  to  North  America  and  natu- 
ralized in  the  West  Indies  and  Southern  Europe.  It  grows  in  waste  places,  and  has  a 
smooth  stem,  alternate  petiolate,  ovate-oblong  acute  leaves,  and  white  decandrous  flowers 
in  elongated  racemes,  which  are  usually  opposite  the  leaves.  The  young  shoots  collected 
in  early  spring  are  sometimes  eaten  as  a substitute  for  asparagus.  It  commences  to 
flower  in  June,  and  ripens  its  fruits  in  August,  when  the  root  and  berries  should  be  col- 
lected. The  young  shoots  of  Phyt.  octandra,  Linne.  indigenous  to  Central  and  South 
America,  and  Phyt.  acinoso,  Roxburgh , a native  of  Northern  India,  are  likewise  eaten. 

Description. — 1.  The  Root.  In  the  fresh  state  the  root  is  large,  conical,  branched 
and  fleshy.  In  commerce  it  is  seen  in  transverse  or  longitudinal  slices  from  2-10  Cm. 
(1  to  4 inches)  in  diameter,  longitudinally  wrinkled,  yellowish  brown-gray  externally, 
hard,  and  breaking  with  a fibrous  fracture.  It  is  of  a dingy-white  color  internally,  and 
exhibits  upon  transverse  section  a number  of  circles  composed  of  wood- 
tissue  radiately  divided  by  numerous  medullary  rays  and  concentric- 
ally approximate,  being  separated  from  one  another  by  shrunken 
parenchyma,  which  in  the  fresh  state  is  fleshy  and  of  about  the  width 
of  the  wood-circles.  The  root  is  inodorous  ; its  taste  is  at  first  sweet- 
ish, afterward  somewhat  acrid. 

2.  The  Fruit  is  a flattened  globular  compound  berry,  about  8 Mm. 

(I  inch)  in  diameter,  and  composed  of  ten  carpels,  which  are  concen- 
trically arranged  around  a short  axis,  are  laterally  confluent,  and  con- 
tain each  one  lenticular  black  and  shining  seed,  with  the  embryo  poke-root- transverse 
curved  around  a mealy  albumen.  The  fruit  is  of  a dark -purple  color,  section, 

has  a thin  pericarp,  and  contains  a purplish-red  juice  which  is  inodorous  and  has  a sweet 
and  slightly  acrid  taste.  When  the  berries  are  dried  on  their  common  peduncles  they 
have  a slight  resemblance  to  raisins. 

Constituents. — The  root  was  analyzed  by  E.  Donnelly  (1843)  and  W.  F.  Pape 
(1881),  who  found  starch,  tannin,  resin,  and  other  common  constituents  of  plants,  but  did 
not  succeed  in  isolating  the  active  principle.  Pape’s  observation  renders  the  presence  of 
an  alkaloid  probable ; he  obtained  1.07  per  cent,  of  ash,  two-thirds  of  which  was  soluble 
in  water.  Terreil  (1881)  obtained  amorphous  phytolaccic  acid , which  is  soluble  in  water 
and  alcohol,  reduces  silver  salts,  and  yields  with  earths  and  alkalies  soluble  salts,  from 
which  boiling  hydrochloric  acid  separates  the  acid  as  a jelly.  Reichel’s  analysis  (1836) 
of  the  root  of  Phytolacca  (Pircunia,  Betted)  drastica,  Poppig , yielded  similar  results  ; 
among  the  salts  was  found  6.6  per  cent,  of  calcium  malate.  The  alkaloid,  pliytolaccine. 
was  obtained  by  Preston  (1884)  in  the  form  of  white  crystals.  These  are  quite  soluble 
in  alcohol,  moderately  so  in  water,  nearly  insoluble  in  ether  and  chloroform.  It  gave 


Fig.  211. 


1226 


PICR  0 TOXIN  XJM. 


precipitates  with  tannin,  phosphomolybdic  acid,  potassium  iodohydrargyrate,  and  auric 
chloride.  The  fruit  was  examined  by  Braconnot  (1804)  ; its  coloring  matter  is  bleached 
by  sunlight  and  turned  yellow  by  alkalies.  W.  Cramer  (1881)  showed  the  presence  of 
sugar,  gum,  and  malic  acid,  and  found  the  fresh  fruit  to  contain  70  per  cent,  of  moisture 
and  the  dried  fruit  to  yield  5 per  cent,  of  ash,  of  which  62  per  cent,  was  soluble  in  water. 
E.  Claassen  (1879)  obtained  from  the  seed  phytolaccin,  which  is  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether, 
and  chloroform,  slightly  so  in  benzin,  and  insoluble  in  water;  it  crystallizes  in  colorless 
needles,  is  tasteless,  and  dissolves  in  sulphuric  acid  with  a brown-yellow,  and  in  warm 
nitric  acid  with  a yellow,  color.  The  fruit  of  most  other  species  of  Phytolacca  contains 
a similar  coloring  matter.  According  to  Landerer  (1836),  the  juice  is  employed  in 
Turkey  for  coloring  sweetmeats. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  most  probable  evidence  in  favor  of  the  medicinal  powers 
of  this  plant  relate  to  its  use  in  rheumatism  and  in  diseases  of  the  skin.  In  the  former, 
and  especially  in  syphilitic  rheumatism,  it  has  been  employed  as  a tincture  either  of  the 
root  or  of  the  berries  and  as  a decoction  of  the  former,  and  is  reputed  to  have  displayed 
anodyne  and  sudorific  powers.  The  decoction,  the  tincture,  the  juice  of  the  leaves,  etc. 
have  been  used  extensively  and  with  reputed  advantage,  both  internally  and  locally,  in 
the  treatment  of  sanious  idcers , scabies , tinea  capitis , sycosis , and  favus , and  of  the  mange 
in  dogs.  An  ointment  made  with  the  roots  or  leaves  (gij  to  lb  j of  lard)  has  been 
applied  in  the  same  affections.  All  of  these  preparations  have  been  much  employed  in 
the  treatment  of  haemorrhoids , and  the  infusion  and  decoction  both  internally  and  by 
injection.  The  decoction  has  been  administered  with  alleged  benefit  in  scrofula , as  well 
as  used  locally  in  treating  the  ulcers  peculiar  to  that  disease.  It  has  been  alleged,  when 
taken  internally  and  applied  locally,  to  prevent  and  also  relieve  mammary  inflammation 
after  delivery,  and  also  to  cure  u irritation  of  the  ovaries  with  uterine  complications/’ 
but  the  latter  statement  is  too  vague  for  acceptance. 

In  the  action  and  medicinal  uses  of  phytolacca  it  is  difficult  to  avoid  observing  a certain 
analogy  between  it  and  dulcamara  on  the  one  hand  and  white  hellebore  on  the  other.  The 
dose  of  the  powdered  root  as  an  emetic  is  Gm.  0.60-2  (gr.  x-xxx).  Of  a saturated 
tincture  about  Gm.  4 (a  fluidrachm)  may  be  given  two  or  three  times  a day.  An  oint- 
ment may  be  made  by  mixing  with  an  ounce  of  lard  the  extract  produced  by  evapor- 
ating an  ounce  of  the  tincture. 

PICROTOXINUM,  77.  8.— Picrotoxin. 

Picrotoxine,  Fr.  ; Pikrotoxin,  G. 

Formula  C30II34O13.  Molecular  weight  600.58. 

A neutral  principle  prepared  from  the  seeds  of  Anamirta  paniculata,  Colebrooke,  s. 
Anam.  (Menispermum,  Linne ) Cocculus,  Wight  et  Arnott,  s.  Cocc.  suberosus,  De  Candolle. 
Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 14. 

Nat.  Ord. — Menispermaceae. 

Origin.— Anam.  paniculata  is  a tall  climbing  shrub,  with  broad  heart-shaped  leaves 
and  long  drooping  racemes  of  small  greenish  dioecious  flowers,  indigenous  to  India  and 
some  of  the  East  Indian  islands.  The  fruit  is  known  as 

Cocculus  indicus,  s.  Fructus  cocculi. — Fishberries,  E.  ; Coque 
du  Levant,  Fr. ; Kokkelskorner,  Fischkorner,  G. — It  is  globular, 
kidney-shaped,  about  6 Mm.  (f  inch)  in  diameter  and  10  Mm. 
(-J  inch)  in  length,  blackish-brown  and  wrinkled.  The  base  and 
apex  of  the  fruit  are  close  together  on  one  side  of  the  fruit,  sep- 
arated from  each  other  by  a shallow  sinus  and  connected  by  an 
obscure  ridge  running  around  the  convex  side.  The  endocarp  or 
shell  is  whitish,  thin,  and  on  the  narrow  concave  side  folded  inward,  forming  a double 
projection  into  the  interior  of  the  fruit,  and  causing  the  embryo  to  assume  a semilunar 
shape  upon  longitudinal  section.  The  fruit  is  inodorous  and  almost  tasteless,  with  the 
exception  of  the  shrivelled  oily  embryo,  which  is  disagreeably  bitter.  Cocculus  differs 
in  the  characters  described  from  all  other  fruits  usually  met  with  in  drug-stores.  Accord- 
ing to  Schmidt  and  Rolmer  (1883),  the  fruit  contains  23.6  per  cent,  of  fat,  over  one-third 
of  which  is  free  stearic  acid.  Pelletier  and  Couerbe  (1833)  isolated  from  the  integuments 
of  the  fruit  the  crystalline  and  tasteless  alkaloid  menispermine,  C18H24N202,  and  parameni- 
spermine , which  has  the  same  composition,  but  differs  from  the  former  in  being  insoluble 
in  ether,  sublimable,  and  in  failing  to  neutralize  acids.  These  bodies  are  associated  with 
the  amorphous  brown  hypopicrotoxic  acid,  which  is  insoluble  in  ether  and  water.  The 


Fig.  212. 


Cocculus  indicus  : fruit  and 
longitudinal  section. 


PICROTOXINUM. 


1227 


poisonous  principle  picrotoxin  is  contained  in  the  kernel,  and  was  first  isolated  by  Boullay 
in  1819. 

Preparation. — Bruised  cocculus  indicus  is  exhausted  by  boiling  alcohol  sp.  gr.  0.85  ; 
the  tincture  is  concentrated  by  distillation  to  about  one-third  the  weight  of  the  fruit ; 
after  cooling,  the  fat  is  removed  and  the  residue  boiled  with  one-half  its  weight  of  water  ; 
the  decoction  is  filtered  while  hot,  the  filtrate  slightly  acidulated  and  crystallized ; the 
crystals  require  to  be  purified  from  hot  alcohol.  The  portion  insoluble  in  water  contains 
menispermine,  paramenispermine,  and  hypopicrotoxic  acid. 

Properties  and  Tests. — Picrotoxin  is  in  “ colorless,  flexible,  shining,  prismatic 
crystals,  permanent  in  the  air,  odorless,  having  a very  bitter  taste  and  a neutral  reaction  ; 
soluble  in  240  parts  of  water  and  in  9 parts  of  alcohol  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  in  25  parts  of 
boiling  water,  and  in  3 parts  of  boiling  alcohol ; also  soluble  in  acids  and  in  solutions  of  the 
alkalies.  “ When  heated  to  200°  C.  (392°  F.),  picrotoxin  melts,  forming  a yellow  liquid. 
Upon  ignition  it  is  consumed,  leaving  no  residue.  Concentrated  sulphuric  acid  dissolves 
picrotoxin  with  a golden-yellow  color,  very  gradually  changing  to  reddish-brown,  and 
showing  a brown  fluorescence.  On  mixing  about  0.2  Gm.  of  powdered  sodium  nitrate 
with  3 or  4 drops  of  sulphuric  acid  in  a small,  flat-bottomed  capsule,  sprinkling  a minute 
quantity  of  picrotoxin  over  it,  and  then  adding,  from  a pipette,  concentrated  solution  (1 
in  4)  of  sodium  hydroxide,  drop  by  drop,  until  it  is  in  excess,  the  particles  of  picrotoxin  will 
acquire  a brick-red  to  deep-red  color,  which  fades  after  some  hours.  On  diluting  2 Cc. 
of  alkaline  cupric  tartrate  solution  with  10  Cc.  of  water,  and  adding  a small  portion  of 
picrotoxin,  red  cuprous  oxide  will  be  separated  within  half  an  hour  at  the  ordinary  tem- 
perature, and  much  more  rapidly  upon  the  application  of  heat.  The  aqueous  solution  of 
picrotoxin  should  remain  unaffected  by  mercuric  or  platinic  chloride  test-solution,  tannic 
acid  test-solution,  mercuric  potassium  iodide  test-solution,  or  other  reagents  for  alkaloids 
(absence  of  alkaloids).” — U.  S. 

The  reaction  with  sulphuric  acid  and  a trace  of  potassium  dichromate  was  described 
by  H.  Koehler  (1867)  as  giving  a violet-blue  color,  changing  to  violet-brown,  brown- 
green,  and  finally  apple-green  ; excess  of  dichromate  causes  a red-brown,  then  dark -brown, 
color  (W.  Schmidt,  1862).  The  yellow  color  produced  by  sulphuric  acid  disappears  on 
the  addition  of  nitric  acid.  Picrotoxin  dissolves  in  strong  nitric  acid  to  a colorless  liquid, 
which  becomes  mahogany-brown  with  a little  potassium  dichromate.  Heated  with  Feh- 
ling’s  solution,  picrotoxin  yields  a precipitate  of  cuprous  oxide  (Ludwig),  but  is  not  a glu- 
coside.  Warm  alkaline  solutions  occasion  also  a reduction  of  silver  and  gold  salts.  The 
reaction  with  potassium  qitrate,  sulphuric  acid,  and  soda  was  suggested  as  a characteristic 
one  by  J.  W.  Langley  (1862). 

Diluted  acids  do  not  increase  the  solubility  of  picrotoxin  in  water  (Pelletier,  Koehler), 
but  caustic  alkalies  render  it  much  more  soluble  ; hence  Pelletier  and  Couebre  regarded 
it  as  picrotoxic  acid ; the  alkaline  solutions  are,  however,  precipitated  by  carbonic  and 
other  acids.  Picrotoxin  is  soluble  in  strong  acetic  acid,  also  in  amylic  alcohol,  benzene, 
chloroform,  ether,  and  in  fixed  oils  (Koehler). 

The  above  formula  is  that  of  Paterno  and  Oglialora  (1877).  By  fractional  crystalliza- 
tion from  benzene  Barth  and  Kretschy  (1880)  separated  picrotoxin  into  three  bodies.  One, 
for  which  the  name  picrotoxin  was  retained,  melts  at  201°  C.  (394°  F.),  answers  in  the 
main  to  the  above  description,  and  has  the  composition  C,5H1606-j-H20.  The  second,  picro- 
tin,  C25H30O12,  has  similar  properties,  but  melts  at  250°  C.  (482°  F.),  is  less  freely  soluble 
in  benzene,  and  is  not  poisonous.  The  third  compound,  an  amir  tin,  C19H24O10,  remains  in  the 
mother-liquor  on  recrystallizing  picrotoxin  from  water ; it  is  but  slightly  bitter,  is  not 
poisonous,  and  its  alkaline  solutions  do  not  reduce  metallic  salts. 

Action  and  Uses. — Its  chief  effects  in  excessive  doses  appear  to  be  slight  giddi- 
ness and  lightness  of  the  head  and  partial  loss  of  power  in  the  lower  limbs.  In  one  case 
the  symptoms  of  active  poisoning  by  cocculus  have  been  described  as  including  gastro- 
intestinal irritation,  congestion  of  the  brain,  strabismus,  sweating,  exhaustion,  and  death. 
The  absence  of  any  spasmodic  phenomena  throws  doubt  upon  the  alleged  nature  of  the 
attack  (Stille,  T herapeuti.es,  4th  ed.,  ii.  353).  A case  is  reported  by  Sosinsky  in  which 
several  ounces  of  whiskey  impregnated  with  cocculus  were  taken  by  a male  adult.  Within 
an  hour  he  became  unconscious,  and  was  seized  with  epileptiform  convulsions.  The  pupils 
were  contracted  and  the  respiration  was  slow,  and  there  was  also  profuse  sweating,  with 
diarrhoea.  Death  occurred  in  three  hours,  “and  was  apparently  due  to  failure  of  respira- 
tion and  exhaustion  ” ( Med . News,  xliii.  485).  The  observations  of  Haynes  record  the 
above  symptoms  essentially,  with  the  addition  of  a cyanotic  discoloration  of  the  skin  ; 
and  he  points  out  that  the  convulsions  much  more  closely  resemble  those  of  epilepsy 


1228 


PILOCARPINE  HYDROCHLORAS. 


than  those  due  to  strychnine,  especially  in  their  clonic  character  and  the  unconsciousness 
that  attends  them  ( Phila . Med.  Times , xiv.  748). 

The  resemblance  between  the  actions  of  picrotoxin  and  of  strychnine  led  to  the  use  of 
the  former  in  paralysis  of  the  extremities  and  of  the  sphincters  of  the  bladder  and  rectum, 
but  the  degree  of  its  success  does  not  appear  to  have  been  very  great.  Its  virtues  in 
curing  epilepsy  have  been  confidently  set  forth  by  Planat,  who  recognizes,  as  the  sole 
exceptions  to  its  curative  power  in  this  affection,  inveterate  cases,  whether  idiopathic  or 
symptomatic.  This  physician  reports  no  less  than  sixteen  cases  of  the  disease  cured  by 
a saturated  tincture  of  cocculus,  of  which  the  primary  dose  was  2 drops  twice  a day,  and 
on  each  subsequent  day  every  dose  was  increased  by  1 drop  until  30  drops  a day  were 
given.  It  was  then  gradually  reduced  until  the  original  dose  was  reached,  when  the 
medicine  was  suspended  for  a fortnight,  after  which  it  was  renewed  and  intermitted 
alternately  during  six  months.  If  the  results  above  related  could  be  relied  upon,  then 
cocculus  would  be  a remedy  for  epilepsy  of  far  higher  curative  power  than  any  one 
before  used  in  the  disease.  This  is  far  from  being  the  case,  for  the  observations  of 
Gowers  and  Ramskill  render  it  probable  that  picrotoxin  aggravates  the  paroxysms  in 
epileptic  patients  {Times  and  Gazn  Apr.  1880,  p.  448).  Planat  attributes  to  the  medi- 
cine a striking  curative  power  in  infantile  eclampsia , in  chronic  spasm  of  the  limbs , and  in 
chorea.  A case  of  labio-glosso-pharyngeal  paralysis  is  stated  to  have  been  greatly 
benefited  by  the  hypodermic  injection  of  1 Mgm.  (gr.  eV)  doses  of  picrotoxin  (Gubler). 
Much  more  positive  are  the  effects  of  picrotoxin  in  controlling  night-sweats , as  illustrated 
by  Murrell  ( Practitioner , xxiii.  241  ; xxv.  93).  He  made  use  of  a solution  of  1 
part  in  240,  as  follows  : Picrotoxin  8 gr. ; Glacial  acetic  acid  f ^iv ; Distilled  water,  to 
f ^iv.  Mix  and  filter.  Of  this  solution  4 minims  contain  -gL  gr.  of  picrotoxin,  which  is 
the  average  dose.  Prom  1 to  4 teaspoonfuls  of  the  solution  seldom  failed  to  diminish, 
and  then  arrest,  the  sweating,  without  leaving  the  skin  dry.  It  did  not  disagree  with  the 
stomach.  Other  clinicians  have  found  this  dose  too  small,  and  prescribed  from  Gm.  0.001- 
0.003  (J7  to  2^  gr.).  Picrotoxin  may  also  be  given  in  pills,  each  containing  one- 
sixteenth  of  a grain.  On  theoretical  grounds  it  has  been  proposed  as  an  antidote  to  mor- 
phine. by  Bokai  ( Lancet , March,  1889,  p.  497).  Cocculus  indicus  is  employed  in  decoc- 
tion or  in  ointment  to  destroy  lice,  and  in  the  latter  form  to  cure  ringworm  of  the 
scalp.  The  skin  should  in  this  disease  be  thoroughly  cleansed  with  soap  and  water 
before  applying  the  ointment.  Porrigo  has  been  cured  by  an  ointment  made  with  Gm. 
0.60  (gr.  x)  of  picrotoxin  to  an  ounce  of  lard.  Cocculus  indicus  is  said  to  prevent  the 
secondary  fermentation  of  liquors,  and  for  this  purpose  it  is  sometimes  added  to  malt 
liquors  at  the  risk  of  poisoning  those  who  drink  them.  The  average  hypodermic  dose  of 
picrotoxin  is  1 Mgm.  or  -fa  of  a troy  grain. 

PILOCARPINES  HYDROCHLORAS,  U.  Pilocarpine  Hydro- 
chlorate. 

Pilocarpinum  hydrochloricum , P.  G. ; Hydrochlorate  de  pilocarpine , Fr. ; Pilocarpin- 
hydrochlorid , G. 

Formula  CUH16N202HC1.  Molecular  weight  243.98. 

The  hydrochlorate  of  an  alkaloid  obtained  from  Pilocarpus.  It  should  be  kept  in 
small,  well-stoppered  vials. — U.  S. 

Preparation. — Diluted  hydrochloric  acid  is  neutralized  with  pilocarpine,  and  the 
solution  concentrated  and  set  aside  over  sulphuric  acid  to  crystallize. 

Properties. — This  salt  forms  long  colorless  needles  or  is  obtained  in  small  white 
needle-shaped  or  scaly  crystals.  It  is  inodorous,  and  has  a slightly  bitter  taste  and  a 
neutral  or  slightly  acid  reaction  to  test-paper.  It  is  deliquescent  on  exposure,  and  dis- 
solves, according  to  Schuchardt  (1881),  in  II  parts  of  water  at  15°  and  at  100°  C.  (59° 
and  212°  F.)  in  7 parts  of  alcohol  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  and  in  about  part  of  boiling 
alcohol.  According  to  Poehl,  it  is  insoluble  or  nearly  so  in  ether,  chloroform,  benzene, 
and  carbon  disulphide,  but,  according  to  Gerrard  (1876),  chloroform  dissolves  the  salt. 
This  melts  at  197°  C.  (386.6°  F.),  and  at  a higher  heat  is  decomposed  without  leaving 
any  fixed  residue.  The  aqueous  solution  remains  clear  for  many  weeks,  and  yields  with 
silver  nitrate  a white  curdy  precipitate  insoluble  in  nitric  acid,  but  soluble  in  ammonia. 
Only  concentrated  solutions  are  precipitated  by  sodium  hydroxide  (whitish  cloudiness)  or 
by  platinic  chloride  (yellowish,  crystalline),  but  diluted  aqueous  solutions  are  pre- 
cipitated by  mercuric  chloride  (white,  soluble  in  hydrochloric  acid),  iodine  (brown-red, 
crystallizable),  pliosphomolybdic  acid  (yellow,  curdy),  and  other  group  reagents  for  alka- 


riLOCARPUS. 


1229 


loids.  Pure  sulphuric  acid  dissolves  the  salt  nearly  colorless,  with  evolution  of  hydro- 
chloric-acid vapors ; in  the  presence  of  a little  potassium  dichromate  the  solution  is  at 
first  dark  green,  but  soon  changes  to  a lasting  bright-green  color  (Poehl,  1879).  Fuming 
nitric  acid  dissolves  the  salt  with  a pale  greenish  color  ( U.  S.,  P.  G.). 

Composition. — The  formula  given  above  is  that  of  Harnack  and  Meyer,  but  King- 
zett  maintains  that  the  correct  formula  of  the  salt  is  C23H34N404(HC1).2. 

Allied  Salt. — Pilocarpine  nitras,  Br.  CnH16N202HN0?.  White  crystalline  powder  or 
needles,  soluble  in  8 or  9 parts  of  water  or  freely  soluble  in  hot  alcohol. 

p0SE. — Hydrochlorate  of  pilocarpine  may  be  administered  by  the  mouth  in  doses  of 
Gin.  0.03-0.05  (gr.  £-f),  and  hypodermically  Gm.  0.02  (gr.  i)  may  be  given.  (See 
Pilocarpus). 


Fig.  213. 


PILOCARPUS,  U.  Pilocarpus,  Jaborandi. 

Jaborandi , Br.,  F.  Cod.  ; Folia  jaborandi,  P.  G. 

The  leaflets  of  Pilocarpus  Selloanus,  Engler  (Rio  Janeiro  jaborandi)  and  of  Pilocar- 
pus Jaborandi,  Holmes  (Pernambuco  jaborandi).  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 48. 

Fat.  Ord. — Butaceae,  Xanthoxyleae. 

Origin. — Jaborandi  is  a kind  of  generic  name  used  in  South  America  for  several 
plants  possessing  diaphoretic  properties.  The  Pilocarpus  jaborandi  is  a shrub  growing  in 
Brazil  in  the  neighborhood  of  Pernambuco,  perhaps  also  in  the  southern  provinces  of 
that  empire.  E.  M.  Holmes  (1875)  determined  the  origin  of  jaborandi.  There  appear 
to  be  several  more  or  less  distinct  forms  of  Pilocarpus  in  Brazil,  which  are  regarded  as 
distinct  species  by  some  botanists,  while  others  regard  them  as  mere  varieties.  Of 
these  may  be  mentioned — Pil.  Selloanus,  Engler , Pil.  lieterophyllus,  A.  Gray,  and  Pil. 
pauciflorus,  St.  Hilaire.  From  the  anatomical  structure  of  the  leaves  constituting  the 
drug  Poehl  (1879)  regards  it  to  be  obtained  from  an  un- 
described species,  Pil.  officinalis,  Poehl. 

Description. — The  leaves  are  imparipinnate.  and  are 
composed  of  four  to  ten  short-stalked  leaflets  with  an 
unequal  base,  and  a terminal  one  which  has  a longer 
stalk  and  is  more  tapering  and  nearly  equal  at  base. 

The  leaflets  are  about  10  to  15  Cm.  (4-6  inches)  long 
and  4 to  6 Cm.  (1F-2J  inches)  broad,  oval  or  ovate- 
oblong,  entire  and  slightly  revolute  at  the  margin,  rather 
rounded  below  and  obtuse,  and  usually  emarginate  above. 

They  are  of  a coriaceous  texture,  green  and  shining  above, 
and  on  the  under  side  paler  and  smooth  or  somewhat  hairy, 
and  with  a prominent  midrib ; the  veins  branch  from  the 
midrib  at  nearly  right  angles,  and  anastomose  near  the  mar- 
gin. forming  on  each  side  one  or  two  distinct  wavy  lines. 

The  entire  blade  is  marked  with  numerous  pellucid  glands. 

The  leaves  are  nearly  inodorous,  but  where  bruised  exhale  a 
slight  aromatic  odor ; the  taste  is  herbaceous,  afterward 
aromatic,  warm,  and  somewhat  bitter. 

Constituents. — Byasson  (1875)  obtained  from  jabo- 
randi-leaves  a volatile  oil,  and  a volatile  alkaloid  which  he 
named  jaborandine.  But  both  Gerrard  and  Hardy  (1875) 
showed  that  the  alkaloid  is  not  volatile,  and  named  it  pilo- 
carpine. It  is  obtained  from  the  aqueous  solution  of  the 
alcoholic  extract  by  adding  an  alkali,  agitating  with  chloro- 
form, and  extracting  it  from  the  latter  by  agitation  with 
water  acidulated  by  hydrochloric  acid.  It  is  best  purified  by 
crystallizing  the  nitrate  from  boiling  alcohol,  which,  accord- 
ing to  Schuchardt,  dissolves  2.5  per  cent,  of  the  salt,  while 
at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  only  .77  per  cent,  remains  in  solution. 

The  alkaloid  is  uncrystallizable,  but  A.  W.  Gerrard 
(1875)  crystallized  from  alcohol  a number  of  its  salts,  of  , 
winch  the  sulphate  and  acetate  are  very  deliquescent ; the  leaflet,  natural  size, 

latter  is  also  soluble  in  ether,  chloroform,  and  benzene,  in 

which  the  nitrate  and  phosphate  are  insoluble,  while  the  chlorhydrate  and  bromhydratc 


1230 


PILOCARPUS. 


dissolve  besides  in  water  and  alcohol,  also  in  chloroform.  Kingzett  (1876)  gives  to  the 
alkaloid  the  formula  C23H34N404,  and  states  that  on  distillation  with  caustic  potassa  it 
yields  trimethylamine,  and  that  jaborandi  contains  only  one  alkaloid.  These  obser- 
vations have  been  corroborated  by  Gerrard  (1880).  But  Harnack  and  Meyer 
(1880)  give  to  pilocarpine  the  formula  CuH16N202.  Chastaing  (1881)  found  the 
same  composition,  and  states  that  on  treating  the  alkaloid  with  a large  excess  of  I 
fuming  nitric  acid,  jaborandine  nitrate , C10H12N2O3.HNO3,  is  obtained,  together  with  ! 
traces  of  another  alkaloid,  probably  jaborine.  Poehl  (1879)  agrees  with  Kingzett’s  | 
formula ; he  also  found  but  one  alkaloid,  but  on  distilling  this  with  caustic  soda  j 
obtained  coniine.  The  latter  alkaloid  was  also  obtained  by  Harnack  and  Meyer,  but  j 
only  from  impure  pilocarpine,  and  they  believe  it  to  be  a decomposition-product  of  a 
second  alkaloid,  jaborine,  which  could  not  be  prepared  in  the  pure  state,  and  is  probably 
produced  by  the  alteration  of  pilocarpine ; it  is  yellow,  amorphous,  more  soluble  in  ether 
and  less  in  water  than  pilocarpine,  and  resembles  atropine  in  its  action.  Merck  (1885) 
obtained  two  more  alkaloids,  which  he  named  jaboridine  and  pilocarpidine  ; these  he  con- 
siders simply  as  oxidation-products  of  jaborine  and  pilocarpine  respectively.  Jaboridine 
is  syrupy,  and  its  nitrate  forms  prisms ; pilocarpidine  differs  from  pilocarpine  principally 
in  that  its  aqueous  solution  is  precipitated  by  gold  chloride. 

Hardy  (1876)  obtained  from  the  leaves  0.56  per  cent,  volatile  oil,  consisting  of  pilo- 
carpine, C10H16  (sp.  gr.  0.85 ; boiling-point  178°  C.),  and  two  hydrocarbons  of  higher 
boiling-points. 

Other  Jaborandis. — Peckolt  (1875)  enumerated  the  following  Brazilian  drugs  which  are  known 
in  some  of  the  provinces  as  jaborandi,  and  belong  either  to  the  natural  order  of  Piperacese  or  to 
that  of  Rutaceae  (Xanthoxylaceae)  : 

1,  Serronia  (Piper,  Vellozo , Ottonia,  Kunth ),  Jaborandi,  Guillemin ; 2,  Piper  reticulatum, 
Linne ; ‘3,  P.  nodulosum,  Link  ; 4,  Artanthe  Mollicoma,  Mi  quel ; 5,  Aubletia  trifolia,  Richard; 
Monnier  a trifolia,  Linne  ; and  6,  Xanthoxylum  elegans,  Engler.  Ilerpestes  gratioloides,  Kunth 
(nat.  ord.  Scrophulariaceae),  is  also  stated  to  yield  a jaborandi ; and  to  these  must  probably  be 
added  Piper  citrifolium,  Lamarck , and  perhaps  other  species.  (See  paper  by  Dr.  F.  V.  Greene 
in  Phila.  Med.  Times , 1877,  p.  537.) 

Piper  Jaborandi,  Vellozo , is,  according  to  Peckolt,  the  true  jaborandi  of  Brazil,  and,  according 
to  Parodi  (1875),  the  true  yaguarundi  of  Paraguay.  The  latter  isolated  from  it  a volatile  oil  of  . 
an  acrid  and  biting  taste  and  a crystalline  alkaloid,  jaborandine , C10H12N2O3,  which  is  slightly 
soluble  in  ether  and  has  but  a weak  affinity  for  acids. 

Infusum  jaborandi,  Br. — Jaborandi  \ ounce,  boiling  water  10  fluidounces ; infuse 
for  half  an  hour  and  strain. 

Tinctura  jaborandi,  Br.,  F.  Cod. — Jaborandi  5 ounces,  proof  spirit  20  fluidounces 
(Bri).  Jaborandi  100  Gm. ; alcohol  (sp.  gr.  0.912)  500  Gm.  ( F '.  Cod. ). 

Substitutions.— The  leaves  of  one  or  more  species  of  Piper  have  occasionally  been 
in  the  market  and  sold  as  jaborandi;  they  are  thin  or  subcoriaceous,  ovate,  acuminate, 
and  so  finely  glandular  that  on  being  held  up  to  the  light  and  examined  with  the  naked 
eye  they  do  not  appear  to  be  pellucid  punctate. 

We  have  seen  the  leaves  of  Laurus  nobilis,  Linne , offered  as  jaborandi ; they  are  easily 
distinguished  by  the  characters  described  on  page  931. 

Action  and  Uses. — When  a jaborandi-leaf  is  chewed  it  causes  an  acrid  sensation 
in  the  fauces,  and  the  powder  by  prolonged  contact  with  the  skin  irritates  it.  In  doses 
of  from  Gm.  2-6  (gr.  xxx— xc)  infused  in  boiling  water,  the  water  and  grounds  being 
swallowed  together,  it  produces  within  ten  or  fifteen  minutes  its  characteristic  effects. 
Very  similar,  if  not  identical,  effects  are  produced  by  the  hypodermic  injection  of  muriate 
of  pilocarpine  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.01-0.02  (gr.  £-£).  Pilocarpine  acts  more  promptly 
than  jaborandi,  especially  when  used  hypodermically.  In  the  dose  just  indicated  it  pro- 
duces, in  the  course  of  two  or  three  minutes,  a sense  of  vertigo  or  faintness,  a flushing 
of  the  face  and  breast,  and  in  from  three  to  six  minutes  drops  of  sweat  appear  upon  the 
forehead  and  moisture  is  felt  in  the  axillae  and  groins,  and  then  upon  the  trunk  and  limbs. 

In  a case  of  glaucoma  the  patient  by  mistake  received  a hypodermic  injection  of  6 grains 
instead  of  f gr.  of  pilocarpine.  Hardly  had  the  needle  been  withdrawn  before  the  saliva 
began  to  dribble  from  the  patient’s  mouth  ( Med . Record , xx.  599).  The  amount  and 
duration  of  the  sweating  are  increased  by  the  patient’s  remaining  covered  in  bed,  and 
also  depend  in  part  upon  individual  peculiarities.  The  secretion  of  tears  and  of  nasai 
and  bronchial  mucus  is  commonly  augmented.  These  abundant  losses  of  liquid  neces- 
sarily reduce  the  patient’s  weight,  often  to  the  extent  of  from  2 to  6 pounds,  and  occa- 
sionally as  much  as  8 pounds.  Pilocarpine  sometimes  also  increases  the  bronchial  secre- 
tion, or  causes  diarrhoea,  or  produces  swelling  of  the  submaxillary  glands.  During  the 


PILOCARPUS. 


1231 


sweating  the  temperature  is  apt  to  fall  about  1°  F.,  the  pulse  grows  fuller  and  tenser, 
and  its  rate  is  at  the  same  time  increased,  sometimes  by  as  much  as  40  or  50  beats  a 
minute.  The  face  becomes  flushed  at  first,  but  grows  pale  when  the  perspiration  is  most 
profuse.  These  phenomena  are  attributed  to  the  action  of  the  medicine  upon  the  heart 
and  arteries,  whereby  the  walls  of  the  latter  are  dilated  and  their  capacity  increased. 
Meanwhile,  at  the  time  when  the  sweat  breaks  out  the  patient  feels  his  mouth  begin  to 
water,  and  the  flow  of  saliva  is  so  rapid,  and  often  so  copious,  that  he  is  unable  to  speak. 
During  the  hour  and  a half,  on  an  average,  that  the  secretion  lasts  it  may  amount  to  1 
or  2 pints.  The  saliva  is  usually  ropy.  When  the  extract  of  jaborandi  or  pilocarpine 
dissolved  in  glycerin  is  introduced  into  the  eye,  it  in  most  cases  contracts  the  pupil,  but 
when  taken  internally  it  produces  this  effect  much  less  uniformly,  if  at  all.  Instead  of 
diminishing  the  secretion  of  milk,  as  might  reasonably  be  expected  from  its  causing  such 
profuse  discharges  elsewhere,  it  appears  to  be  a true  galactagogue.  It  is  said  to  exhibit 
this  virtue  even  when  directly  applied  to  the  mammae  ( Practitioner , xvii.  443).  It  is 
stated  that  the  milk  secreted  under  its  influence  produces  a sudorific  action  upon  the 
infant  that  consumes  it.  It  is  alleged  that  such  milk  is  also  deficient  in  solids,  and  there- 
fore innutritious ; on  the  other  hand,  it  is  certain  that  infants  have  been  nourished  and 
have  thriven  upon  milk  so  obtained  (Jour.  Amer.  Med.  Assoc.,  iv.  238 ; Therap.  Gaz.,  x. 
194).  Children  are  but  little  affected  by  doses  which  would  produce  the  full  operation 
of  the  medicine  in  adults. 

There  can  be  no  doubt  that  these  medicines,  especially  pilocarpine  hydrochlorate,  some- 
times occasion  distressing  and  even  alarming  symptoms,  such  as  nausea,  vomiting,  saliva- 
tion, diarrhoea,  tenesmus,  contracted  pupils,  collapse,  tremor,  extreme  weakness,  indistinct 
vision,  slow  and  sighing  respiration,  rapid  pulse,  palpitation  of  the  heart,  and  vertigo,  for 
all  which  the  appropriate  remedy  is  a hypodermic  injection  of  atropine  ; the  inhalation  of 
nitrite  of  amyl  has  also  been  used  for  the  same  purpose. 

Jaborandi  resembles  atropine  in  quickening  the  pulse  and  flushing  the  face,  and  in  act- 
ing more  powerfully  upon  adults  than  upon  children ; but  it  is  antagonistic  to  atropine  in 
its  action  upon  the  salivary,  sudoral,  and  mammary  secretions,  upon  the  pupils  also,  and 
the  minute  arteries.  Moreover,  the  tendency  of  belladonna  to  excite  delirium  contrasts 
with  that  of  jaborandi  to  cause  prostration  and  drowsiness,  and  the  sweats  and  salivation 
produced  by  the  latter  are  checked  by  the  hypodermic  injection  of  atropine.  The  dryness 
of  the  mouth  and  skin  which  this  alkaloid  or  belladonna  occasions  is  relieved  by  the 
administration  of  jaborandi  or  pilocarpine.  The  mammary  secretion  is  diminished  by  the 
one  and  increased  by  the  other.  In  this  connection  it  may  be  mentioned  that  in  experi- 
ments upon  frogs  the  dilatation  of  the  heart  produced  by  the  one  agent  has  been  over- 
come by  the  operation  of  the  other.  Nevertheless,  it  has  happened  in  cases  of  poisoning 
by  belladonna  or  its  alkaloid  that  no  mitigation  of  the  symptoms  followed  the  administra- 
tion of  jaborandi  or  of  pilocarpine. 

The  utility  of  jaborandi  and  pilocarpine  in  medicine  is  chiefly  shown  by  their  power  of 
lessening  the  amount  of  liquid  in  the  system.  Hence  they  are  often  of  service  in  removing 
effusions  due  to  cardiac  or  renal  obstruction,  and  even  to  inflammation.  The  last  effect 
has  been  illustrated  in  some  cases  of  chronic  as  well  as  acute  pleurisy,  probably,  however, 
with  serous  rather  than  purulent  effusion.  The  relief  afforded  by  the  medicines  is  some- 
times wonderfully  prompt,  especially  if  the  patient  refuses  to  yield  to  his  thirst  and 
abstains,  as  far  as  possible,  from  using  liquids.  In  children  it  is  more  apt  to  be  afforded 
by  profuse  salivation  than  by  sweating.  In  hydrothorax  the  benefit  is  even  more  speedy 
and  complete,  although  its  duration  must  depend  upon  the  cardiac  or  renal  disease  during 
which  the  effusion  occurred.  When  dropsy  arises  in  connection  with  desquamative  tubu- 
lar nephritis  (especially  scarlatinous),  or  even  with  interstitial  nephritis,  the  medicine  is 
very  efficient,  in  the  former  disease  often  leading  to  a cure,  and  in  the  latter  to  a pro- 
longation of  life.  But  it  can  be  of  no  service  unless  its  sialagogue  or  its  diaphoretic 
action  is  fully  developed.  A danger,  however,  which  perhaps  attends  this  treatment  of 
acute  renal  dropsy  is  that  the  discharge  of  water  by  the  skin  diminishes  the  excretion  of 
the  kidneys,  and  if  carried  too  far  may  cause  them  to  become  obstructed  and  uraemic 
symptoms  to  arise.  In  regard  to  the  dropsy  of  pregnancy  and  the  usually  associated 
puerperal  albuminuria  and  convulsions  the  efficacy  of  the  medicine  does  not  yet  appear  to 
be  determined.  In  certain  cases  its  administration  has  been  followed  by  its  physiological 
effects  and  the  dissipation  of  threatening  symptoms  ; but  some  physicians  (Bidder  ; For- 
dyce  Barker)  regard  its  utility  as  more  than  doubtful,  and  the  latter  states  that  after 
puerperal  convulsions  its  depressing  influence,  which  is  continuous  and  exhausting,  pre- 
vents sleep  and  the  repose  of  the  nervous  system,  and  thus  renders  it  in  these  cases  a 


1232 


PILOCARPUS. 


dangerous  remedy.  This  judgment  has  been  strengthened  by  the  results  of  an  investi- 
gation by  Dr.  John  Phillips,  who  felt  constrained  to  “warn  others  against  its  use,  espe- 
cially when  coma  was  pronounced”  ( Lancet , Oct.  13,  1888.  Compare  Med.  News,  xlvii. 
382  ; Therap.  Gaz.,  x.  473  ; Braithwaitd s Retrospect,  xciv.  300).  In  dropsy  caused  by 
disease  of  the  heart  it  is  a temporary  palliative  which  may  appropriately  be  used  from  time 
to  time  during  a treatment  by  digitalis,  etc.  Indeed,  it  simply  serves  as  a substitute  for  the 
ancient  practice  of  purging  or  sweating  by  heat,  etc.,  and  may  be  used  alternately  with 
them.  Its  action  in  lessening  the  contractile  power  of  the  heart  and  arteries,  and  retaining 
them  in  diastole,  should  be  borne  in  mind,  since  it  tends  to  favor  the  accumulation  of  blood 
in  them  and  to  obstruct  rather  than  relieve  the  circulation  and  respiration.  In  all  cases 
in  which  the  rhythm  of  the  heart  is  disordered  by  valvular  or  muscular  degeneration  this 
medicine  should  be  cautiously  used,  lest  during  the  prostration  it  cause  the  action  of  the 
heart  to  be  suspended.  Used  in  certain  cases  of  pulmonary  emphysema,  it  has  embar- 
rassed respiration  and  threatened  to  produce  asphyxia.  But  when  dropsy  of  whatever 
form  (hydrothorax,  ascites,  anasarca)  due  to  Bright’s  disease  is  associated,  not  with 
obstructive  lesions  of  the  heart,  but  with  hypertrophy  of  the  left  ventricle,  the  relief 
obtained  from  jaborandi  is  immediate  and  striking.  Yet  the  rule  must  not  be  too  abso- 
lutely followed.  In  cases  of  obstructive  diseases  of  the  heart  from  valvular  or  muscular 
degeneration,  with  emphysema,  and  even  disease  of  the  arteries,  the  action  of  pilocarpine 
may  sometimes  be  so  adjusted  as  to  afford  relief  without  embarrassing  the  circulation. 
It  has  been  used  to  cure  or  prevent  the  full  development  of  bronchitis,  laryngitis,  and 
coryza,  dry  bronchitis,  etc.,  Riess  ( Centralb . f.  Therap .,  v.  303).  In  a case  of  oedema  of 
the  larynx  the  hypodermic  use  of  pilocarpine  seems  to  have  saved  life  (Bull,  et  Mem.  Soc. 
de  Therap.,  1881,  p.  146).  The  utility  of  pilocarpine  in  all  forms  of  dropsy  is  precisely 
like  that  which  has  long  been  derived  from  hot-air  and  steam-baths  and  other  powerful 
diaphoretics,  but  is  greater,  inasmuch  as  it  excites  profuse  salivation  as  well  as  sweating. 
It  must  be  borne  in  mind  also  that  some  clinical  observers  have  found  it  injurious  by 
causing  distressing  nausea  and  vomiting,  and  so  exhausting  the  strength  that  its  repeated 
use  was  not  tolerated. 

In  1880  and  for  several  subsequent  years  marvellous  success  was  announced  from 
the  use  of  pilocarpine  in  diphtheria,  on  the  ground  apparently  of  the  salivation  induced 
by  it  causing  the  separation  of  the  false  membranes  (Bull,  de  Therap.,  cv.  237  ; Med. 
News , 1.  321).  As  usual,  the  “ rational  ” anticipation  resulted  in  disappointment,  and  it 
was  found  that  the  medicine  added  to  the  disease  a new  element  of  weakness,  and  there- 
fore of  danger.  A caution  has  been  given  to  beware  of  the  possible  uraemic  symptoms 
that  may  follow  the  diminished  urination,  but  as  urea  is  eliminated  by  the  saliva  and 
sweat,  the  advice  is  perhaps  not  very  important.  In  primary  and  sthenic  laryngeal  croup 
the  utility  of  the  medicine  is  probably  greater. 

Pilocarpine  is  alleged  to  bring  on  labor  in  pregnancy  at  term,  and  to  hasten  and  facil- 
itate it  when  once  begun.  Its  influence  in  these  respects  is  not,  however,  determined. 
According  to  Galezowski,  pilocarpine  equals  eserine  in  its  power  of  contracting  the  pupil , 
and  has  the  advantage  of  not  irritating  the  conjunctiva.  He  prefers  a solution  of  20 
Cgm.  of  the  nitrate  in  10  Gm.  of  cherry-laurel  water,  or  of  10  Cgm.  of  the  sulphate  in 
6 Gm.  of  the  same  solvent.  Dr.  H.  W.  Williams  has  confirmed  this  judgment,  adding 
that  it  produces  less  supraorbital  pain  than  the  eserine  sulphate,  and  less  spasm  of  the 
accommodative  power.  It  is  used  chiefly  in  cases  of  corneal  lesions  in  which  it  is  desir- 
rable  to  withdraw  the  iris  from  the  danger  of  prolapsing  or  of  adhering  to  the  cornea. 
In  cases  of  detachment  of  the  retina  its  use  is  said  to  have  been  followed  by  opacity  of 
the  lens.  It  was  observed  by  Schmitz  that  the  administration  of  muriate  of  pilocarpine 
hypodermically  caused  a growth  of  downy  hair  on  the  scalp  of  two  men  affected  with 
alopecia.  A like  effect  has  been  reported  by  Andre  (Bull,  de  Therap.,  ci.  139),  and 
others  relating  to  diseases  of  the  scalp  by  Pick  (Phila.  Med.  Times,  x.  451).  A case 
is  reported  of  a “ change  of  color  of  the  hair  from  light  blond  to  nearly  jet  black  in  a 
patient  while  under  treatment  by  pilocarpine  ” (Prentiss,  Phila.  Med.  limes , xi.  609  ; 
Therap.  Gaz.,  xiii.  238).  Urticaria  is  said  to  have  disappeared  under  its  use,  eczema 
to  have  been  cured  by  the  local  action  of  the  fluid  extract,  and  the  hypodermic  injection 
of  y1-^  gr.  of  pilocarpine  is  reported  to  have  allayed  the  itching  of  jaundice.  The  full 
sudorific  effect  of  the  medicine  has  been  employed  to  reduce  the  excitement  and  delirium 
occasioned  by  alcohol  in  vigorous  subjects  (Isham).  It  appears  to  have  some  influence 
in  lessening  the  salivation  of  pregnancy  and  in  reducing  the  swelling  in  acute  glossitis. 

Jaborandi  has  been  employed  to  diminish  the  discharge  of  urine  in  watery  and  also  in 
saccharine  diabetes , but  it  only  changes  the  outlet  of  the  liquid  without  reducing  the 


PILOCARPUS. 


1233 


loss.  The  morbid  conditions  producing  polyuria  are  so  various  that  the  excessive  flow  of 
urine  cannot  in  all  cases  be  under  the  control  of  the  same  agent.  In  the  present  case  it 
is  doubtful  whether  the  simple  functional  (?)  affection,  or  the  excessive  urination  that 
attends  the  first  stage  of  interstitial  Bright’s  disease,  or  chronic  poisoning  by  lead,  is  most 
benefited  by  the  vicarious  discharge  of  liquid  under  the  influence  of  pilocarpine.  Upon 
“scientific  principles”  jaborandi  should  be  a specific  for  acute  articular  rheumatism , but 
clinically  it  is  so  far  from  curing  the  disease  that  it  does  not  even  modify  its  symptoms 
or  its  course.  In  syphilitic  rheumatism  its  sudorific  action  is  said  to  have  removed  the 
nocturnal  pains,  and  it  has  been  efficacious  in  muscular  rheumatism  and  sciatica.  In 
scaly  skin  diseases  it  is  useless.  In  prurigo  it  is  a palliative.  Some  published  cases 
render  it  probable  that  the  sudorific  power  of  pilocarpine  may  take  the  place  of  the 
sweating  by  means  of  the  “ decoction  of  the  woods  ” which  was  once  considered  essential 
to  the  cure  of  constitutional  syphilis  ( Practitioner , xxvi.  55  ; St.  Bart's  Hosp.  Reports , 
xvi.  280).  In  mumps  it  is  reported  to  have  been  curative  both  of  the  parotid  swelling 
and  of  the  metastatic  engorgement  of  the  testicles.  In  the  dose  of  to  A grain  pilocar- 
pine has  been  found  to  palliate  the  colliquative  sweats  of  phthisis  by  West,  Horne,  and 
others  (St.  Bart's  Reports , xx.  125  ; Lancet , Sept.  6,  1884,  p.  408).  This  effect  has 
been  questioned,  but  on  insufficient  grounds,  by  Ablestoff  ( Lancet , July  3,  1886).  Pilo- 
carpine obeys  the  general  law  that  medicines  which  act  on  the  nervous  system  produce 
opposite  effects  in  small  and  large  doses.  In  a case  of  unilateral  sweating  the  hypoder- 
mic injection  of  pilocarpine  is  reported  to  have  cured  the  affection  after  having  at  first 
increased  it.  A case  of  persistent  hiccough  from  disease  of  the  brain,  and  which  had 
resisted  various  other  remedies,  yielded  at  once  to  the  hypodermic  injection  of  Gm.  0.03 
(1  grain)  of  pilocarpine.  Two  very  obstinate  cases  of  more  recent  date  have  been 
reported,  one  of  which  was  cured  by  an  infusion  of  jaborandi  (Bull,  de  Therap .,  cviii.  84), 
and  the  other  by  the  hypodermic  injection  of  muriate  of  pilocarpine  (Therap.  Gaz.,  ix. 
572).  The  latter  preparation  has  cured  rheumatic  tetanus  (Centralbl.  f.  Ther.,  iv.  171), 
and  palliated  locomotor  ataxia  ( Lancet , Nov.,  1882).  Politzer  and  others  have  found  that 
repeated  hypodermic  injections  of  small  doses  of  pilocarpine  relieve  deafness  from  chronic 
affections  of  the  internal  ear,  due  either  to  simple  or  to  syphilitic  inflammation  (Amer 
Jour.  Med.  Sci.,  April,  1885,  p.  588);  and  Rosegarten,  that  they  are  useful  “in  cases  of 
chronic  dry  catarrh  of  the  middle  ear,  complicated  with  affections  of  the  labyrinth  ” (ibid., 
April,  1887,  p.  565).  In  all  such  cases  the  treatment,  which  must  be  prolonged,  seems  to 
act  by  softening  and  rendering  more  pliable  the  tissues  of  the  organ  of  hearing.  This 
medicine  seems  to  have  caused  improvement  in  myxoedema  (St.  Bart's  Rep.,  xx.  128).  It  has 
been  alleged  that  pilocarpine  has  cut  short  the  development  of  yellow  fever  (Med.  Record, 
xxxii.  484),  and  that  an  infusion  of  the  leaves  has  acted  as  an  antidote  to  the  poison  of 
a viper  (Med.  News,  li.  718).  It  is  alleged  to  be  curative  of  whooping  cough.  A case  of 
reputed  hydrophobia  treated  by  means  of  pilocarpine  is  said  to  have  recovered,  but  the 
Academy  of  Medicine  of  Paris  did  not  regard  the  case  as  being  accurately  designated 
(Bull,  de  Therap,  ciii.  39).  In  several  cases  pilocarpine  has  served  as  an  antidote  to  the 
poisonous  effects  of  daturine,  atropine,  stramonium , and  belladonna.  Its  effects  appear  to 
be  prompt  and  decided  (Phila.  Med.  Times , x.  415  ; ibid.,  xi.  637  ; Med.  Record,  xx.  41  ; 
Edinb.  Med.  Jour.,  xxviii.  1048  ; N.  Orleans  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  Oct.  1885  ; Brit.  Med. 
and  Surg.  Jour.,  Sept.  1885  ; ibid.,  Jan.  1887  ; Lancet,  July,  1890,  p.  175  ; Therap. 
Gaz..  xvi.  330,  549).  Hypodermic  injections  of  nitrate  of  pilocarpine  are  said  to  have 
cured  fetid  sweating  (Bull,  de  Therap.,  c.  135). 

Jaborandi  may  be  administered  in  an  infusion  made  with  Gm.  6 of  the  medicine  in 
Gm.  128  (90  grains  in  4 fluidounces)  of  water,  and  taken  in  three  or  four  equal  portions  at 
intervals  of  ten  minutes.  To  avoid  nausea  it  may  be  given  by  enema.  A concentrated 
tincture  containing  the  virtues  of  Gm.  2 in  Gm.  4 (gr.  xxx  in  fgj)  of  the  preparation, 
and  a fluid  extract  made  with  50  per  cent,  alcohol,  Gm.  4 (a  fluidrachm)  of  which  repre- 
sents Gm.  4 (60  grains)  of  jaborandi,  have  both  been  employed.  Pilocarpine  or  its  nitrate 
may  be  prescribed  by  the  mouth  in  doses  of  from  Gm.  0.03-0.05  (£  to  f grain),  and 
hypodermically  Gm.  0.02  (1  grain)  may  be  given.  It  is  less  apt  to  occasion  retching 
and  vomiting  when  the  stomach  does  not  contain  food.  Squire  recommends  pilocarpine 
hydrochlorate  in  solution  as  the  best  form  to  use — 1 grain  to  15  minims  of  water  for 
hypodermic  injections,  1 grain  to  4 ounces  of  water  for  internal  use,  f of  a grain  being 
the  largest,  and  of  a grain  the  smallest,  dose  needed. 

78 


1234 


PILULE. 


PILUXj-ZE. — Pills. 

Pilules , Fr. ; Pillen , G. 

Pills  are  a very  convenient  mode  of  administering  medicines,  the  chief  advantage  lying 
in  the  small  bulk  to  which  the  medicine  is  reduced  and  in  the  almost  complete  disguise 
of  bitter  and  nauseous  remedies  by  reason  of  their  being  swallowed  without  previous 
mastication.  Pills  are  admirably  adapted  for  the  administration  of  heavy  metallic  sub- 
stances not  readily  suspended  in  liquids,  and  also  in  cases  where  the  action  of  the  medi- 
cine is  to  be  slow,  or  even  retarded  until  it  reaches  the  lower  bowels.  The  usual  shape 
given  to  pills  is  that  of  a sphere  or  globe,  although  an  ovoid  shape  is  also  sometimes 
resorted  to,  and  in  a few  cases  even  the  lenticular  shape  is  preferred.  Their  weight 
ranges  from  less  than  0.06  Om.  to  0.3  Gm.  (1  gr.  to  5 gr.)  for  vegetable  substances,  or 
about  0.5  or  0.6  Gm.  (8  or  10  grains)  for  heavy  mineral  compounds;  if  a pill  exceeds 
this  weight,  it  is  called  a bolus.  Boluses  are  occasionally  made  weighing  1.3  or  2.0  Gm. 
(20  or  30  grains)  each,  and  are  often  of  a softer  consistence  than  pills.  Very  small  pills 
coated  with  sugar  are  called  granules. 

Preparation. — The  most  important  step  in  the  preparation  of  pills  is  the  formation 
of  a proper  mass,  which  should  consist  of  a firm,  consistent  paste,  sufficiently  plastic  to 
admit  of  being  moulded  without  adhering  to  the  moulds,  and  sufficiently  firm  to  prevent 
the  pills  from  losing  their  original  shape.  Plasticity  is  that  peculiar  condition  where 
adhesiveness  and  firmness  are  properly  balanced : the  former  of  these  properties  is  due 
to  a partial  softness,  which  enables  the  particles  of  the  mass  to  adhere  to  each  other,  thus 
imparting  tenacity  to  the  whole.  Some  substances  possess  this  adhesiveness  in  them- 
selves, but  require  the  addition  of  a liquid — water  or  alcohol — in  order  to  develop  it,  as,  for 
instance,  gums  and  resinous  drugs.  Other  substances  possess  no  inherent  adhesive  prop- 
erties, and  in  such  cases  it  becomes  necessary  to  impart  tenacity  to  them  by  the  addition 
of  some  liquid  or  solid  material,  called  the  excipient ; such  substances  are  camphor, 
calomel,  bismuth  salts,  some  saline  vegetable  powders,  reduced  iron,  and  the  like.  Firm- 
ness in  a pill  mass  is  as  essential  as  adhesiveness,  and,  while  the  latter  is  brought  about 
by  a state  of  partial  solution  or  fluidity,  so,  inversely,  the  insolubility  of  some  particles 
is  necessary  for  the  required  firmness.  The  addition  of  excipients  must  be  made  judi- 
ciously, so  that  the  constituents  of  the  mass  be  not  modified  in  their  action  nor  the  bulk 
be  unnecessarily  increased ; and  after  each  addition  the  mass  should  be  well  kneaded, 
which,  itself  having  a softening  influence  on  the  mass  by  reason  of  the  heat  generated, 
enables  the  operator  to  judge  of  the  true  condition  of  the  mixture.  Whenever  possible 
all  constituents  of  a pill  mass  should  be  reduced  to  very  fine  powder  before  the  addition 
of  any  excipient,  as  only  in  this  condition  can  the  homogeneity  of  the  mass  be  assured, 
as  also  the  subsequent  accurate  division  of  doses.  Small  quantities  of  potent  remedies, 
such  as  alkaloids,  narcotic  extracts,  toxic  chemicals,  etc.,  are  preferably  triturated  with  a 
little  sugar  of  milk  before  mixing  them  with  the  other  ingredients,  to  facilitate  uniform 
distribution. 

For  the  proper  incorporation  of  volatile  oils  in  pill  masses  powdered  soap  is  to  be  pre- 
ferred, which  completely  emulsionizes  the  oil  and  prevents  its  separation  during  the  sub- 
sequent manipulations  ; soap,  however,  should  never  be  employed  in  pill  masses  contain- 
ing heavy  metallic  salts,  such  as  iron,  lead,  etc.,  as  decomposition  will  take  place  and 
cause  the  mass  to  crumble  : in  such  cases  the  addition  of  an  absorbent  powder  is  prefer- 
able. As  an  absorbent  for  large  quantities  of  volatile  oils  or  as  an  excipient  for  heavy 
metallic  salts  or  troublesome  combinations,  such  as  capsicum,  lead  acetate,  and  extract  of 
hyoscyamus,  and  the  like,  the  powder  suggested  some  years  ago  by  Mr.  Mattison  will  be 
found  very  serviceable  : it  consists  of  1 part  of  powdered  tragacanth  and  7 parts  of  finely- 
powdered  (No.  80)  elm-bark  ; and  the  following  quantities  will  be  found  sufficient  for 
making  a good  pill  mass  with  the  aid  of  a little  syrup : 3 grains  of  the  powder  for  60 
grains  of  iron  by  hydrogen,  or  bismuth  subnitrate,  or  calomel,  or  equal  parts  of  camphor 
and  extract  of  henbane,  or  equal  parts  of  camphor  and  lead  acetate ; 6 grains  of  the 
powder  for  60  grains  of  dried  ferrous  sulphate  or  scale  salts  of  iron,  or  equal  parts  of 
camphor  and  capsicum,  etc.  As  an  absorbent  for  soft  masses,  or  such  as  contain  large 
amounts  of  extracts,  powdered  liquorice-root  will  be  found  a better  drying  agent  than 
marshmallow-root  or  elm-bark,  and  less  likely  to  increase  the  bulk,  as  it  contains  little  or 
no  mucilaginous  matter.  For  creosote  soap  may  be  used  if  in  combination  with  other 
drugs,  but  if  prescribed  alone,  powdered  liquorice-root  or  the  mixture  of  tragacanth  and 
elm-powder  with  syrup  will  be  found  to  answer  well : 2 or  3 grains  of  the  powder  should 


PILULE. 


1235 


be  used  for  each  drop  of  creosote.  For  tar,  Peru  balsam  and  similar  substances,  clay 
(kaolin  or  fuller’s  earth),  will  be  found  a good  absorbent,  the  mass  to  be  made  with  soap. 
For  the  salts  of  quinine,  glycerin  and  acacia  or  tragacanth,  or  even  glycerite  of  starch, 
will  be  found  desirable  excipients ; for  cinchonidine  or  its  sulphate,  however,  honey  with 
a little  acacia  will  be  found  preferable  to  glycerin.  Diluted  alcohol  and  soap  and  water 
are  the  best  excipients  for  gum-resins,  such  as  asafetida  or  galbanum,  and  even  for  pow- 
ders like  aloes,  as  is  shown  in  the  Pharmacopoeia.  Although  the  use  of  wax  has  at  times 
been  recommended  for  pill  masses  containing  volatile  oils,  balsams,  etc.,  we  think  it  should 
only  be  employed  in  extreme  cases,  as  pills  made  with  wax  frequently  fail  to  give  up  the 
active  ingredients  in  the  liquids  of  the  stomach  or  bowels,  owing  to  their  higher  melting- 
point.  For  pills  of  readily  reducible  substances,  as  potassium  permanganate,  silver 
nitrate,  silver  oxide,  gold  chloride,  etc.,  all  contact  with  organic  matter  should  be  avoided, 
and  hence  the  best  excipients  would  be  white  clay  and  water,  which  form  a plastic  mass, 
but  require  quick  manipulation,  as  it  soon  becomes  crumbly  ; a better  excipient  is  a mix- 
ture of  equal  parts  of  kaolin,  soft  petrolatum,  and  paraffin,  which  forms  a mass  that 
readily  gives  up  the  active  constituent,  at  the  temperature  of  the  body,  in  the  presence 
of  moisture.  Potassium  permanganate  can  be  readily  formed  into  a pill  mass  by  tritu- 
rating with  one-half  its  weight  of  kaolin,  and  then  adding  one-sixth  or  one-fourth  its 
weight  of  petrolatum. 

Pills  containing  free  iodine  should  invariably  be  made  with  the  addition  of  starch,  so 
as  to  combine  with  the  iodine  and  prevent  its  irritating  effect  on  the  mouth  and  throat ; 
the  union  is  very  feeble,  and  the  iodine  will  be  readily  liberated  by  the  warm  liquids  of 
the  stomach. 

When  deliquescent  substances  are  ordered  in  pill  form  or  such  as  are  slowly  volati- 
lized upon  exposure  to  air,  a mixture  of  potassium  borotartrate  with  half  its  weight  of 
water  will  prove  a good  excipient : about  one-sixth  of  a grain  of  powdered  tragacanth 
should  be  added  for  each  pill,  and  the  mass  must  be  quickly  formed  and  rolled  out.  60 
grains  of  chloral  hydrate  or  30  grains  of  potassium  iodide  require  2 drops  of  the  excip- 
ient. Such  pills,  if  they  are  to  be  kept  on  hand  for  some  time,  require  a protective 
coating. 

It  is  obvious,  from  the  foregoing,  that  there  cannot  be  an  excipient  which  would  be 
alike  serviceable  for  all  medicinal  substances,  or  even  for  all  drugs  capable  of  being 
reduced  to  powder.  The  choice  of  the  excipient  is  very  frequently  left  to  the  pharma- 
cist, and  involves  a knowledge  not  only  of  the  constituents  of  the  drugs,  but  also  of  the 
reactions  which  may  take  place  between  the  different  ingredients  in  the  presence  of 
moisture.  Mucilage  of  acacia  or  of  tragacanth  serves  a good  purpose  if  the  pills  are  to 
be  used  in  a short  time,  but  if  kept  on  hand  they  become  hard  and  dissolve  very  slowly. 
This  may  be  prevented  by  replacing  about  one-half  or  more  of  the  water  with  glycerin. 
The  glycerite  of  starch  (see  p.  783)  and  various  combinations  of  it  with  gum-arabic, 
tragacanth,  and  sugar  have  been  used  for  the  same  purpose.  Commercial  syrupy  glucose , 
manna,  the  official  pill  masses , most  of  the  official  confections,  and  more  particularly  those 
of  rose,  of  hip.  and  of  senna,  will  render  powders  adhesive,  and  if  extracts  are  not  inad- 
missible they  will  be  found  to  yield  good  pill  masses  with  a comparatively  large  amount 
of  powder ; a rather  soft  extract  is  capable  of  serving  as  an  excipient  for  its  own  weight 
of  vegetable  powder  and  three  or  four  times  its  weight  of  resins  and  insoluble  salts,  and 
with  the  addition  of  a little  syrup  or  honey  twice  the  weight  indicated  may  be  incor- 
porated. 

As  a rule,  it  will  be  found  desirable  for  the  physician  to  order  some  adhesive  material, 
like  extracts,  together  with  the  other  ingredients  of  pills,  but  the  former  should  not  be  in 
excessive  quantities,  so  as  not  to  require  the  addition  of  inert  absorbent  powder.  When 
no  excipient  is  directed,  the  pharmacist  should  select  one  which  is  simple  in  composition, 
i does  not  increase  the  bulk  of  the  mass,  and  is  not  liable  to  become  very  hard.  When 
resinous  extracts  and  similar  materials  are  ordered,  an  excipient  is  not  often  required,  but 
the  powders  may  be  triturated  together  in  a warm  mortar  and  the  plastic  mass  rolled  out 
into  pills  while  still  warm.  The  compound  cathartic  pills  furnish  an  example  of  this  kind. 

Fill  masses  should  always  be  made  in  a mortar,  except  in  the  case  of  very  simple 
combinations,  for  trituration  by  means  of  a pestle  is  essential  to  produce  a uniform  mix- 
ture of  the  ingredients,  and  it  will  be  found  that  a mass  can  be  formed  in  less  time  and 
with  less  excipient  and  labor  in  the  mortar  than  on  a pill-tile.  After  the  mass  has  been 
properly  prepared,  it  is  transferred  to  a regular  pill-machine  or  graduated  glass  or  porce- 
lain tile  to  be  rolled  out,  by  means  of  a flat  piece  of  hard  wood,  into  a cylinder  of  uniform 
thickness,  which  is  then  divided  into  the  requisite  number  of  pieces.  These  pieces  are 


! 


1236 


PILULE. 


rounded  either  by  continued  rolling  in  the  grooves  of  the  pill-machine  or  by  appropriate 
rolling  between  the  fingers  until  they  are  nearly  globular,  when  they  are  placed  under 
the  pill-finisher  and  completely  rounded  by  rotary  motion  of  the  same,  accompanied  by 
some  pressure.  Various  implements  have  been  constructed  for  giving  the  pills  a uniform 


finish  ; they  usually  consist  of  a circular,  smooth,  rolling  surface,  with  a projecting 
margin  adjustable  to  pills  of  different  size. 

Pill-dusting. — The  pill  mass,  being  plastic  and  adhesive,  is  apt  to  adhere  to  the  slab 
and  the  fingers  while  being  rolled  out  and  shaped  into  pills.  This  is  prevented  by  the 
use  of  a fine  powder,  which  should  be  strictly  inert  unless  otherwise  directed  by  the  phy- 
sician. Among  the  most  suitable  powders  are  lycopodium,  liquorice-root,  and  starch;  the 
former  is  particularly  desirable  on  account  of  its  fineness  and  uniformity,  its  slight 
adhesiveness,  and  its  utter  tastelessness.  Powdered  starch  should  be  used  with  all  white 
pill  masses,  Bermuda  arrow-root  being  the  best  for  the  purpose.  Only  in  exceptional 
cases  is  the  addition  of  dusting  powder  to  the  pills  in  the  box  justifiable  : the  pills 
should  receive  a sufficient  coating  of  the  powder  under  the  finisher,  and  if  the  mass  has 
been  properly  made  there  is  no  danger  of  the  pills  adhering,  and  hence  there  is  no  occa- 
sion for  putting  an  excess  of  powder  in  the  box.  Magnesia  and  magnesium  carbonate 
should  be  used  with  due  care  on  account  of  the  possible  chemical  effect  upon  the 
ingredients  of  the  pills.  Powdered  talc  (soapstone)  is  likewise  serviceable,  and  has  the 
advantage  of  imparting  a very  thin  opaque  and  tasteless  coating  to  the  pills  without 
impairing  their  solubility  in  the  stomach  ; it  is  particularly  suited  for  pills  of  silver  nitrate 
and  the  like.  When  asafetida  or  other  substances  of  a nauseous  odor  are  given  in  the 
form  of  pill,  the  odor  may  either  be  entirely  covered  or  considerably  modified  by  the  use 
of  powdered  cinnamon,  aromatic  powder,  ginger,  or  a similar  powder. 


the 


Fig.  217. 


Apparatus  for  Coating  Pills. 


Pill-coating. — If  the  pill  mass  be  not  too  soft,  the  amount  of  powder  adhering  to 
e surface  of  the  finished  pill  is  quite  small,  though  generally  sufficient,  if  quickly  swal- 


lowed, to  cover  the  taste  of  bitter  and  nauseous  ingredients.  More  perfect  coverings  may 

be  obtained  in  various  ways,  an  ordinary  rather  deep 
pill-box  being  used,  or  preferably  an  apparatus  made 
of  hard  wood  consisting  of  two  hollow7  hemispheres, 
to  one  of  which  a short  handle  is  attached.  Vox  sil- 
vering or  gilding  the  pills  are  made  firm,  if  possible 
rolled  out  and  shaped  without  using  any  powder,  and 
after  a perfectly  smooth  surface  has  been  obtained 
they  are  slightly  dampened  and  introduced  into  the 
apparatus,  together  with  the  requisite  quantity  of 
gold-  or  silver-leaf;  after  a rapid  rotary  motion  for  a few  seconds  the  pill  will  be  found 
uniformly  coated  with  the  thin  metal.  Glycerin  should  not  be  used  as  an  excipient  or 
only  in  a very  small  quantity,  as  it  lessens  the  brightness  of  this  kind  of  coating. 


PILULM 


1237 


Fig.  218. 


The  same  apparatus  may  likewise  be  employed  for  sugar-coating  pills  extemporaneously. 
To  accomplish  this,  the  pills  receive  first  a thin  coating  of  a thick  mucilage,  syrup  of 
acacia  or  albumen,  by  rotating  them  upon  a moistened  slab  or  in  a saucer,  after  which 
they  are  introduced  into  the  apparatus  with  not  too  large  a quantity  of  very  finely-pow- 
dered sugar.  The  smoothness  of  the  surface  of  the  sugar  depends  altogether  upon  the 
mutual  attrition  of  the  pills,  and  consequently  upon  the  absence  of  too  large  an  excess 
of  sugar  and  upon  the  rapidity  of  motion  during  the  operation.  A coating  of  French 
chalk  may  be  applied  in  the  same  manner.  Pills  are  now  extensively  coated  with  sugar 
on  the  large  scale,  hemispherical  copper  pans  being  used  to  which  a somewhat  eccentric 
rotary  motion  is  given  ; these  pans  may  be  moderately  heated  either  by  steam  or  otherwise. 
To  obtain  a uniform  and  compact  coating  the  powdered  sugar  is  added  gradually  as  re- 
quired. In  France  sugar-coated  pills  are  called  dragees , and  when  of  very  small  size  granules. 

Pills  are  occasionally  coated  with  tolu  or  collodion : the  former  coating  is  directed 
officially  for  the  pills  of  phosphorus  and  those  of  iodide  of  iron.  Instead  of  using  the 
pharmacopoeial  solution  of  tolu  in  ether,  the  following,  suggested  by  Prof.  Patch,  will  be 
found  to  give  better  results:  540  grains  of  balsam  of  tolu,  180  grains  of  mastiche,  2 
fluidounces  of  alcohol ; dissolve  and  filter.  Coat  the  interior  of  two  flat  evaporating- 
dishes  with  a thin  film  of  oil  of  sweet  almond  or  petrolatum  ; place  the  pills  in  one  of 
the  dishes,  and  add  a few  drops  of  the  solution ; cover  with  the  second  dish,  and  rotate 
rapidly  until  the  pills  are  coated,  then  put  on  a tray  to  dry. 

For  coating  pills  with  gelatin  a different  manipulation  from  those  described  is  required. 
A solution  of  pure  gelatin  in  one-half  or  one-third  its  weight  of  water  is  made,  and  the 
solution  kept  at  a temperature  just  high  enough  to  keep  it  liquid.  Fig.  218  represents 
a very  useful  machine  for  gelatin  coat- 
ing pills,  and  with  a little  practice  very 
satisfactory  results  may  be  obtained. 

A number  of  pins  are  fastened  to  a 
bar,  and  so  arranged  that  twenty-five 
pills  can  be  taken  up  and  dipped  at  one 
time ; the  solution  of  gelatin  is  kept 
fluid  in  a narrow  vessel  C resting  in 
a water-bath,  and  the  coated  pills  are 
easily  removed  by  the  comb  attached  to 
the  tray  E.  The  drying  of  the  coating 
is  effected  by  revolving  the  pin  bars  on 
the  pivotal  rod  D.  Of  late  years  a continuous  coating  of  gelatin  has  been  successfully 
applied  to  pills  by  a process  which  is  still  kept  a secret  by  manufacturers.  Various  ser- 
viceable apparatuses  have  been  constructed  to  facilitate  this  operation.  The  coating  of 
gelatin  may  be  applied  to  pills  while  still  plastic,  but  they  should  be  sufficiently  firm  not 
to  lose  their  shape  while  temporarily  exposed  to  a somewhat  elevated  temperature. 

Compressed  Pills. — These  pills,  which  have  lately  come  into  use  extensively,  are 
usually  lenticular  in  shape,  and  are  made  without  any  excipient,  simply  by  subjecting  the 
powdered  material  to  pressure,  the  process 
being  essentially  that  which  was  patented  in 
England  in  1843.  Sometimes,  however,  it  is 
found  necessary  in  the  case  of  extremely  dry 
powders  to  add  a very  small  quantity  of 
cacao  butter,  petrolatum,  sugar,  or  alcohol 
to  facilitate  compression  and  final  expulsion 
from  the  mould.  Figs.  219  and  220  represent 
two  styles  of  apparatus  for  the  convenient 

Fig.  219. 


t7,V^’!iV  • 


The  “ Franciscus  ” Pill-coater. 


The  “ Smedley  ” Pill-compressor. 


Apparatus  for  making  Compressed  Pills. 


compression  of  pills  at  the  dispensing  counter : they  are  similarly  constructed,  the 


1238 


PILULJE  ALOES. 


weighed  powder  being  introduced  into  a movable  cylinder  resting  over  a metal  base 
with  concave  surface ; in  the  one  case  compression  is  effected  by  striking  the  plunger, 
which  fits  neatly  into  the  cylinder,  a quick  blow  with  a wooden  mallet ; in  the  other  case 
more  uniform  pressure  is  brought  to  bear  by  means  of  a long  lever,  which  plan  is 
decidedly  better.  Powders  which  are  readily  soluble  in  water  without  being  deliquescent 
appear  to  be  best  adapted  for  this  kind  of  pills. 

Tablet  Triturates. — Closely  allied  to  compressed  pills  are  tablet  triturates,  which 
were  first  introduced  in  1878  by  Dr.  Robert  Fuller,  and  since  then  have  rapidly  increased 
in  favor  with  physicians.  Their  use  is  particularly  indicated  for  the  administration  of 
small  doses  of  potent  remedies,  and,  being  free  from  adhesive  excipients,  the  tablet  is 
readily  disintegrated  in  the  stomach.  Figs.  221  and  222  show  two  different  styles  of 
apparatus  used  in  the  manufacture  of  tablet  triturates ; they  are  made  of  hard  rubber, 
although  the  perforated  plate  may  be  also  of  glass  or  metal.  The  method  of  using  the 
moulds  is  easily  learned  and  practice  soon  acquired. 

The  basis  of  all  tablet  triturates  is  sugar  of  milk  or  Fig.  222. 

a mixture  of  it  with  half  its  weight  of  cane-sugar ; 
the  active  ingredient  having  been  intimately  mixed 
with  the  vehicle,  a paste  is  made  by  the  careful  y 

addition  of  alcohol.  The  paste  is  formed  into  tab-  j||'l||| 
lets  by  pressing  it  into  the  perforations  of  the  rub-  1 1| 

Fig.  221.  » 


VV.  T.  & Co.’s  Hard  Rubber  Mould  for  Tablet  Triturates. 


Combination  Mould  for  Tablet  Triturates : a , Pis- 
ton ; b,  Sectional  View ; c,  Complete  Mould. 


ber  or  glass  plate,  and  then  removing  the  tablets  from  the  holes  by  means  of  the  pegs 
attached  to  another  plate,  and  which  fit  exactly  into  the  perforations  of  the  first  plate : . 
the  tablets  are  either  allowed  to  dry  on  the  pegs  or  are  transferred  to  a finely-perforated 
tray  and  dried  by  exposure  to  warm  air.  When  the  combination  mould  is  used,  the  \ 
paste  is  spread  on  a pill-tile  and  the  tablet  formed  after  the  manner  of  cutting  a lozenge  j 
by  pressing  the  mould  into  the  paste,  so  as  to  fill  the  open  space  completely,  and  then  ■ 
transferring  to  a tray  by  depressing  the  piston,  which  causes  the  tablet  to  be  expelled,  i 
The  weight  of  tablet  triturates  varies  from  J to  2 or  3 grains,  and  the  proper  division  of  > 
doses  is  readily  ensured  by  mixing  the  active  ingredient  and  vehicle  in  such  proportions 
that  each  J,  1,  2,  or  3 grains  of  the  mixture  shall  contain  the  required  quantity  of  active 
ingredient;  thus  1 grain  of  calomel  mixed  with  19  grains  of  vehicle  will  make  20  one- 
grain  tablets,  each  containing  grain  of  calomel,  or  10  two-grain  tablets,  containing  y1^ 
grain  of  calomel,  or  40  half-grain  tablets,  each  containing  ^ grain  of  calomel,  etc. 

Preservation. — Uncoated  pills  are  best  preserved  in  lycopodium  or  other  powder, 
and  in  a vessel  which  does  not  prevent  the  exchange  of  air.  Moist  pills  kept  in  well- 
closed  vessels  are  apt  to  become  mouldy. 

It  should  be  mentioned  that  the  British  Pharmacopoeia  directs  only  pill  masses,  leaving 
the  final  division  to  be  specially  ordered  by  the  physician.  The  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia,  on 
the  other  hand,  besides  recognizing  three  pill  masses  (see  page  1020),  directs  pills  of  a 
certain  weight ; for  convenience  of  dispensing,  however,  the  mass  of  some  of  these  is 
sometimes  kept  on  hand  undivided. 


PILULES  ALOES,  U.  S. — Pills  of  Aloes. 

Pilula  aloes  Socot rinse,  Br. — Pilules  d' aloes  et  de  savon,  Fr. ; Aloepillen,  G. 

Preparations. — Purified  Aloes,  in  fine  powder,  13  Gm. ; Soap,  in  fine  powder,  13 
Gm. ; to  make  100  pills.  Beat  them  together  with  water,  so  as  to  form  a mass,  and 
divide  it  into  100  pills. — U.  S.  For  12  pills  use  aloes  and  soap,  of  each  1.56  Gm. 
(24  grains). 


PILULE  ALOES  ET  ASAFCETIDM— ALOES  ET  M A STICHES. 


1239 


The  formula  of  the  French  Codex  is  identical  with  this,  except  that  Cape  aloes  is  used, 
and  that  100  pills  contain  10  Gm.  of  each  of  the  ingredients. 

Take  of  Socotrine  aloes,  in  powder,  2 ounces ; hard  soap,  in  powder,  1 ounce ; volatile 
oil  of  nutmeg  1 fluidrachm  ; confection  of  roses  1 ounce.  Beat  all  together  until  thor- 
oughly mixed. — Br. 

Pilula  aloes  Barbadensis,  Br.,  is  made  in  precisely  the  same  manner,  except  that 
Barbadoes  aloes  is  substituted  for  Socotrine  aloes,  and  oil  of  caraway  for  oil  of  nutmeg, 
both  in  the  same  proportion  as  in  the  preceding  formula. 

Pilul^e  aloetkle. — Pilules  d’aloes,  F.  Cod.  Cape  aloes  (10  Gm.)  154  grains  ; confec- 
tion of  rose  5 Gm.  (77  grains) ; make  100  pills. 

Uses. — The  soap  in  this  pill  serves  to  divide  the  aloes  and  render  it  more  soluble, 
whereby,  it  is  thought,  the  tendency  of  the  medicine  to  irritate  the  rectum  is  diminished. 
In  the  British  pill  the  oil  of  caraway  is  intended  to  lessen  the  tendency  of  the  medicine 
to  gripe.  Pills  of  aloes  are  convenient  laxatives  in  habitual  constipation,  and  may  be 
taken  at  bedtime  or  after  dinner.  A single  pill  repeated  daily  forms  the  ordinary  dose. 
It  may  be  used  as  a purgative  in  the  dose  of  five  or  more  pills,  but  is  less  suited  for  this 
purpose  than  other  aloetic  preparations. 

The  Pilula  aloes  Barbadensis,  Br.,  is  nearly  identical  as  a purgative  with  that  of  the 
United  States  Pharmacopoeia,  but  the  oil  of  caraway  it  contains  gives  it  the  advantage. 
Dose,  from  Gm.  0.30-0.60  (gr.  v-x). 

The  dose  of  pills  of  aloes  is  from  Gm.  0.30—0.60  (gr.  v-x),  or  two  or  three  pills. 

PILUL7E  ALOES  ET  ASAFCETIDiE,  77.  8.,  Br. — Pills  of  Aloes  and 

Asafetida. 

Pilules  d' aloes  et  asefetide,  Fr. ; Aloe-  mid  Asafoetida-Pillen,  G. 

Preparation. — Purified  Aloes,  in  fine  powder,  9 Gm. ; Asafetida  9 Gm. ; Soap,  in 
fine  powder,  9 Gm. ; to  make  100  pills.  Beat  them  together  with  water  so  as  to  form  a 
mass,  and  divide  it  into  100  pills. — U.  S.  For  12  pills  use  aloes,  asafetida,  and  soap,  of 
each  1.08  Gm.  (16  grains). 

Take  of  Socotrine  aloes,  in  powder,  asafetida,  hard  soap  in  powder,  confection  of  roses, 
each  1 ounce.  Beat  all  together  until  thoroughly  mixed. — Br. 

Uses. — These  pills  may  take  the  place  of  the  simple  aloetic  pill  in  cases  of  constipa- 
tion attended  with  flatulence,  and  especially  in  nervous  or  hysterical  persons.  Dose,  from 
two  to  five  pills. 

PILULiE  ALOES  ET  FERRI,  77.  8 Br. — Pills  of  Aloes  and  Iron. 

Dilutee  aloeticse  ferratee,  s.  Pilulee  Italicse  nigrse,  P.  G.,  F.  Cod. — Pilules  dl aloes  et  de  fer, 
Fr. ; Aloe-  und  Eisenpillen , Italienische  Pillen , G. 

Preparation. — Purified  Aloes,  in  fine  powder,  7 Gm. ; Dried  Sulphate  of  Iron  7 Gm. ; 
Aromatic  Powder  7 Gm. ; Confection  of  Bose  a sufficient  quantity  to  make  100  pills. 
Beat  the  powders  together  with  confection  of  rose  so  as  to  form  a mass,  and  divide  it  into 
100  pills. — U.  S.  For  12  pills  use  aloes,  exsiccated  sulphate  of  iron,  and  aromatic  pow- 
der, of  each  0.84  Gm.  (13  grains). 

Take  of  sulphate  of  iron  1£  ounces;  Barbadoes  aloes,  in  powder,  2 ounces;  compound 
powder  of  cinnamon  3 ounces  ; confection  of  roses  4 ounces.  Reduce  the  sulphate  of  iron 
to  powder,  rub  it  with  the  aloes  and  compound  powder  of  cinnamon,  and,  adding  the  con- 
fection, make  the  whole  into  a uniform  mass. — Br. 

Exsiccated  sulphate  of  iron  and  powdered  aloes  equal  parts ; mix,  form  a mass  with 
spirit  of  soap,  and  divide  into  pills,  each  weighing  0.10  Gm.  Moisten  the  pills  with 
tincture  of  aloes  to  make  the  surface  black  and  glossy. — P.  G. 

Uses. — This  is  an  old  and  efficient  combination  used  in  the  treatment  of  amenorrhoea 
associated  with  anaemia  and  constipation.  Like  other  analogous  compounds,  it  should  be 
used  habitually  in  moderate  doses,  and  in  larger  ones  at  the  menstrual  epochs.  Dose, 
Gm.  0.30-0.60  (gr.  v-x),  or  two  or  three  pills. 

PILULE  ALOES  ET  MASTICHES,  77.  8. — Pills  of  Aloes  and 

Mastic. 

Lady  Webster  s dinner  pills,  E. ; Pilules  d 'aloes  et  de  mastic . Fr.  ; Aloe-  und  Mastix- 

Pillen,  G. 

Preparation. — Purified  xVloes,  in  fine  powder,  13  Gm. ; Mastic,  in  fine  powder,  4 


1240 


PILULJE  ALOES  ET  MYRRIEE.—ASA FCETIBM 


Gm. ; Red  Rose,  in  fine  powder,  3 Gm. ; to  make  100  pills.  Beat  them  together  with 
water  so  as  to  form  a mass,  and  divide  it  into  100  pills. — U.  S.  For  12  pills  use  aloes 
1.56  Gm.  (24  grains),  mastic  0.48  Gm.  (7?  grains),  and  red  rose  0.36  Gm.  (5J  grains). 

Uses. — The  association  of  mastic  with  aloes  in  a purgative  pill  can  hardly  have  any 
other  effect  than  to  retard  the  solution  of  the  latter,  and  thereby  cause  it  to  act  upon  the 
large  rather  than  upon  the  small  intestine.  These  pills  are  used  to  quicken  defecation, 
and  are  generally  taken  with  or  immediately  before  or  after  the  principal  meal.  Hence 
they  have  been  called  Pil.  ante  cibum , Pilules  des  gourmands , etc.  Under  the  latter  title, 
however,  pills  are  used  containing  extract  of  cinchona  and  absinth,  as  well  as  aloes. 
Each  pill  contains  about  2 grains  of  aloes. 

PILULEE  ALOES  ET  MYRRHEE,  U.  S Hr, — Pills  of  Aloes  and 

Myrrh. 

Rufus' s pills,  E. ; Pilules  d'alols  et  myrrhe,  Pilules  de  Rufus,  Fr. ; Rufus' sche  Pillen,  G. 

Preparation. — Purified  Aloes,  in  fine  powder,  13  Gm. ; Myrrh,  in  fine  powder,  6 
Gm. ; Aromatic  Powder,  4 Gm. ; Syrup  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  100  pills.  Beat 
them  together  so  as  to  form  a mass,  and  divide  it  into  100  pills. — U.  S.  For  12  pills  use 
aloes  1.56  Gm.  (24  grains),  myrrh  0.72  Gm.  (12  grains),  and  aromatic  powder  0.48  Gm. 
(8  grains). 

Triturate  together  Socotrine  aloes  2 ounces,  myrrh  1 ounce,  dried  saffron  J ounce ; 
then  add  treacle  1 ounce  and  sufficient  glycerin,  and  heat  them  together  into  a uniform 
mass. — Br. 

Uses. — The  proportion  of  myrrh  in  this  compound  is  too  small  to  exert  much  influ- 
ence, but,  owing  to  its  supposed  action  upon  the  uterine  system,  it  is  believed  to  increase 
the  virtue  of  the  aloes  in  the  treatment  of  amenorrhcea,  uterine  catarrh,  etc.  The  still 
smaller  proportion  of  saffron  (Br.')  can  scarcely  add  much  to  its  virtues.  As  a purga- 
tive from  three  to  six  pills  may  be  given,  or  Gm.  0.60-1.30  (gr.  x-xx)  of  the  mass  in  a 
bolus.  As  a laxative,  taken  at  bedtime  for  a week  or  more,  one  or  two  pills  will  generally 
suffice,  and  will  be  found  the  most  efficient  mode  of  administration  in  the  uterine  dis- 
orders referred  to. 

PILULES  ANTIMONII  COMPOSITES,  77.  Compound  Pills  of 

Antimony. 

Pilula  hydrargyri  subchloridi  composita,  Br. ; Pil.  calomelanos  composita. — Compound' 
pills  of  subchloride  of  mercury,  Plummer  s pills,  E. ; Pilules  alterantes  composees,  P.  anti- 
dartreuses,  P.  de  Plummer,  Fr. ; Plummer' sche  Pillen,  G. 

Preparation. — Sulphurated  Antimony  4 Gm. ; Mild  Mercurous  Chloride  4 Gm. ; 
Guaiac,  in  fine  powder,  8 Gm. ; Castor  Oil  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  100  pills.  Mix 
the  powders,  beat  them  together  with  castor  oil,  added  a few  drops  at  a time,  so  as  to 
form  a mass,  and  divide  it  into  100  pills. — TJ.  S.  For  12  pills  use  sulphurated  antimony 
and  calomel,  each  0.48  Gm.  (7i  grains),  guaiac  resin  0.96  Gm.  (15  grains). 

Take  of  subchloride  of  mercury,  sulphurated  antimony,  each  1 ounce ; guaiacum  resin, 
in  powder,  2 ounces ; castor  oil  1 fluidounce  or  a sufficiency.  Triturate  the  subchloride 
of  mercury  with  the  antimony,  then  add  the  guaiacum  resin  and  castor  oil,  and  beat  the 
whole  into  a uniform  mass. — Br. 

Uses. — Plummer’s  pills — or  compound  calomel  pills,  as  they  might  properly  be  called 
— probably  owe  their  virtues  to  the  mercury  they  contain,  since  various  other  mercurial 
preparations  are  equally  efficacious  in  the  diseases  for  the  cure  of  which  these  pills  are  in 
greatest  repute — viz.  chronic  rheumatism  and  diseases  of  the  skin,  so  far  as  they  are  due 
to  a syphilitic  taint — and  since  the  proportion  of  guaiac  in  them  can  have  no  efficiency. 
The  dose  is  one  or  two  pills  twice  a day. 

PILULEE  ASAFCETIDEE,  77.  S, — Pills  of  Asafetida. 

Pdule  d'asefetide,  Fr. ; Asa foetida- Pillen , G. 

Preparation. — Asafetida  20  Gm. ; Soap,  in  fine  powder,  6 Gm. ; to  make  100  pills. 
Beat  them  together  with  water  so  as  to  form  a mass,  and  divide  it  into  100  pills. — t • A 
For  12  pills  use  asafetida  2.40  Gm.  (36  grains)  and  soap  0.72  Gm.  (12  grains). 

Uses. — These  pills,  especially  when  sugar-coated,  are  convenient  for  the  administra- 
tion of  asafetida,  of  which  each  one  contains  3 grains.  Bose,  from  one  to  three  pills. 


PJLULA  CAMBOGIjE  COMPOSITA.—COLOCYNTHIDIS  com  POSIT  A.  1241 


PILULA  CAMBOGLE  COMPOSITA,  Hr. — Compound  Pill  of 

Gamboge. 

Preparation. — Take  of*  Gamboge,  in  powder,  Barbadoes  Aloes,  in  powder,  Com- 
pound Powder  of  Cinnamon,  each  1 ounce ; Hard  Soap,  in  powder,  2 ounces ; Syrup  a 
sufficiency.  Mix  the  powders  together,  add  the  syrup,  and  beat  the  whole  into  a uniform 

mass. 

Uses. — As  an  efficient  purgative  in  constipation  and  in  congested  states  of  the  portal 
circulation  this  pill  may  be  recommended.  Dose,  Gm.  0.30-0.60  (gr.  v-x). 

PILULHC  OATH  ARTICLE  COMPOSITJE,  TJ.  S. — Compound  Cathartic 

Pills. 

Ant ibilious  pills,  E. ; Pilules  cathartiques  composees , Fr. ; Abfiihrpillen , G. 

Preparation. — Compound  Extract  of  Colocynth  80  Gm. ; Extract  of  Jalap  30  Gm. ; 
Mild  Mercurous  Chloride  60  Gm. ; Gamboge,  in  fine  powder,  15  Gm. ; to  make  1000  pills. 
Mix  the  powders  intimately  ; then  gradually  incorporate  them  with  the  extract  of 
jalap  and  a sufficient  quantity  of  water  to  form  a mass,  and  divide  it  into  1000  pills. — TJ. 
S.  For  12  pills  use  compound  extract  of  colocynth  0.960  Gm.  (15  grains);  extract  of 
jalap  0.360  Gm.  (6  grains);  calomel  0.720  Gm.  (12  grains);  gamboge  0.180  Gm.  (3 
grains). 

In  making  this  pill  mass  it  is  advisable  to  use  a warm  mortar  and  add  very  little  water ; 
while  still  warm  it  may  be  formed  into  pills  which  will  better  retain  their  shape  than  if 
made  with  more  water  at  the  ordinary  temperature.  The  composition  of  these  pills  is 
almost  exactly  the  same  as  in  the  previous  Pharmacopoeia,  a lesser  quantity  of  extract  of 
jalap  having  been  substituted  for  the  abstract. 

Action  and  Uses. — Whether  or  not  the  calomel  acts  upon  the  liver,  as  was  once 
believed,  there  can  be  no  question  that  in  all  cases  requiring  thorough  purgation  and 
in  which  the  gastric  digestion  is  disordered , the  liver  tumid  and  tender,  the  skin  and  the 
conjunctiva  muddy,  and  the  urine  dark  and  sedimentary,  these  symptoms  are  promptly 
relieved  by  a purgative  dose  of  compound  cathartic  pills.  Hence,  they,  are  much  used  in 
malarial  localities  at  seasons  when  periodical  diseases  prevail,  and  in  other  places  for  the 
relief  of  similar  symptoms  produced  by  the  habit  of  eating  excessively  of  animal  food 
and  using  alcohol  beyond  the  needs  of  the  economy.  There  is  much  reason  for  believing 
that  this  pill  operates  upon  the  entire  intestinal  tract. 

The  dose  as  a laxative  is  about  Gm.  0.20  (gr.  iij),  or  one  pill ; as  an  active  cathartic, 
about  three  pills.  It  is  not  adapted  for  habitual  use,  on  account  of  its  tendency  to  pro- 
duce salivation,  when  often  repeated. 

PILULiE  CATHARTICS  VEGETABLES,  U.  Vegetable 

Cathartic  Pills. 

Pilules  cathartiques  vegetables , Fr.  ; Vegetabilische  Abfiihrpillen , G. 

Preparation. — Compound  Extract  of  Colocynth  60  Gm.  ; Extract  of  Hyoscyamus  30 
Gm. ; Extract  of  Jalap  30  Gm.  ; Extract  of  Leptandra  15  Gm. ; Resin  of  Podophyllum 
15  Gm. ; Oil  of  Peppermint  8 Cc. ; Water,  a sufficient  quantity  to  make  1000  pills. 
Mix  the  compound  extract  of  colocynth  intimately  with  the  resin  of  podophyllum  and 
incorporate  the  oil  of  peppermint.  Rub  the  extracts  of  hyoscyamus,  jalap,  and  leptandra 
with  enough  water  to  render  them  plastic ; then  beat  them  together  with  the  mixture  first 
prepared,  using  a sufficient  quantity  of  water,  so  as  to  form  a mass  to  be  divided  into  1000 
pills.—  U.  S. 

For  12  pills  use  compound  extract  of  colocynth  0.720  Gm.  (12  grains) ; extract  of 
hyoscyamus  and  extract  of  jalap,  of  each  0.360  Gm.  (6  grains);  extract  of  leptandra  and 
resin  of  podophyllum,  of  each  0.180  Gm.  (3  grains);  oil  of  peppermint  3 drops. 

Uses. — Neither  the  title  nor  the  composition  of  this  pill  recommends  it.  The  former 
is  as  applicable  to  several  other  compound  pills,  and  the  latter  is  such  as  might  have  been 
left  to  magistral  prescription.  The  average  dose  may  be  stated  at  one  pill,  as  a laxative. 

PILULA  COLOCYNTHIDIS  COMPOSITA,  ^.—Compound  Pill  of 

Colocynth. 

Pdvles  de  coloquinte  composees , Pil.  coches . mineures,  Fr. ; Coloquinten-Pillen,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Powdered  Colocynth-pulp  1 ounce ; Barbadoes  Aloes  2 
ounces ; Resin  of  Scammony  2 ounces  ; Potassium  Sulphate  \ ounce ; Oil  of  Cloves  2 


1242  PILULA  COL 0 C YNTII TDIS  ET  HYOSCYA MI.—PIL  TJLAE  FEE.  CARBONATIS. 


fluidrachms  ; Distilled  Water  a sufficiency.  Mix  the  powders,  add  the  oil  of  cloves,  and 
beat  into  a mass  with  the  aid  of  the  water. — Br. 

The  formula  of  the  French  Codex  directs  colocynth,  Barbadoes  aloes,  and  scammony, 
of  each  10  dm.,  honey  30  Gm.,  oil  of  cloves  0.05  Gm.,  to  be  divided  into  200  pills,  which 
are  to  be  coated  with  silver. 

Uses. — This  pill  is  appropriate  in  the  same  cases  as  the  compound  pill  of  gamboge. 
Dose , Gm.  0.30-0.60  (gr.  v-x),  or  two  or  three  pills. 

PILULA  COLOCYNTHIDIS  ET  HYOSCYAMX,  Br.— Pill  of 

Colocynth  and  Hyoscyamus. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Compound  Pill  of  Colocynth  2 ounces ; Extract  of  Hyos- 
cyamus 1 ounce.  Beat  them  into  a uniform  mass. — Br. 

Uses. — The  operation  of  the  compound  extract  of  colocynth  in  this  pill  is  mitigated 
by  its  association  with  extract  of  hyoscyamus,  but  an  officinal  formula  is  hardly  necessary 
for  such  a combination.  It  is  better  to  add  the  narcotic  extract  to  whatever  purgative 
pill  has  a tendency  to  gripe  in  a magistral  prescription.  Dose,  Gm.  0.30-0.60  (gr.  v-x), 
or  two  or  three  pills. 

PILULA  CONII  COMPOSITA,  Br. — Compound  Pill  of  Hemlock. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Extract  of  Hemlock  2\  ounces ; Ipecacuanha  i ounce  ; 
Treacle  a sufficiency.  Mix  the  extract  of  hemlock  and  ipecacuanha,  and  add  sufficient 
treacle  to  form  a pill  mass. 

Uses. — This  combination  is  intended  to  act  as  a sedative  and  expectorant,  but  the 
extract  of  conium  contained  in  it  can  exert  but  little  influence  in  either  way.  A pill  of 
Dover’s  powder  is  more  efficient.  Dose , Gm.  0.30-0.60  (gr.  v-x),  or  two  or  three  pills. 

PILULiE  FERRI  CARBONATIS,  U.  S. — Pills  of  Ferrous  Carbonate. 

Pilula  ferri , Br.  Add. — Pills  of  iron , Ferruginous  pills , Chalybeate  pills , Bland's  pills , 
E.  ; Pilules  chalybes  de  Bland,  Fr. ; Bland' sche  Pillen , G. 

Preparation. — Ferrous  Sulphate  in  clear  crystals,  16  Gm.  ; Potassium  Carbonate 
8 Gm. ; Sugar  4 Gm. ; Tragacanth,  in  fine  powder,  1 Gm.  ; Althaea,  in  No.  60  powder,  1 
Gm  ; Glycerin,  Water,  each,  a sufficient  quantity;  to  make  100  pills.  Bub  the  potassium 
carbonate  in  a mortar,  with  a sufficient  quantity  (about  10  drops  each)  of  glycerin  and 
water,  then  add  the  ferrous  sulphate  and  sugar,  previously  triturated  together  to  a uni- 
form powder,  and  beat  the  mass  thoroughly  until  it  assumes  a greenish  color.  When 
„ the  reaction  appears  to  have  terminated,  incorporate  the  tragacanth  and  althaea,  and,  if 
necessary,  add  a little  more  water,  so  as  to  obtain  a mass  of  pilular  consistence.  Divide 
this  into  100  pills.  These  pills  should  be  freshly  prepared  when  wanted. — U.  S. 

For  12  pills  use  ferrous  sulphate  crystals  1.920  Gm.  (30  grains);  potassium  carbonate 
0.960  Gm.  (15  grains);  sugar  0.480  Gm.  (7i  grains);  tragacanth  and  althaea,  of  each 
0.120  Gm.  (2  grains);  glycerin  and  water,  of  each  1 drop  or  a sufficient  quantity. 

Take  of  ferrous  sulphate  60  grains ; reduce  to  fine  powder  in  a mortar,  adding  12 
grains  of  powdered  sugar  and  4 grains  of  powdered  tragacanth,  and  mix  intimately. 
Finely  powder  36  grains  of  potassium  carbonate  in  another  mortar,  and  mix  with  it  24 
minims  of  glycerin.  Transfer  this  to  the  mortar  containing  the  ferrous  sulphate,  beat 
thoroughly  until  the  mass  becomes  green,  and  add  water,  if  necessary,  sufficient  to  impart 
a pilular  consistence.  Divide  into  5-grain  pills. — Br.  Add. 

This  is  a new  official  pill,  intended  to  present  ferrous  carbonate  in  a freshly  prepared 
form  ; as  frequently  prescribed  by  physicians,  equal  weights  of  ferrous  sulphate  and  potas- 
sium carbonate  are  ordered,  being  a decided  excess  of  the  latter,  which  renders  the  mass 
hygroscopic  and  more  difficult  to  manage.  1 part  of  pure  crystallized  ferrous  sulphate 
requires  0.497  + part  of  absolute  potassium  carbonate  (equal  to  0.523  + official  95  per 
cent,  salt)  for  complete  decomposition,  yielding  0.417  + part  of  ferrous  carbonate. 
Unless  absolutely  pure  potassium  carbonate  is  used,  the  decomposition  in  the  official  pills 
will  not  be  complete,  as  16  Gm.  of  ferrous  sulphate  require  8.368  Gm.  of  95  per  cent, 
potassium  carbonate.  Each  pill  is  intended  to  contain  about  0.0648  Gm.  (1  grain)  of  fer- 
rous carbonate. 

Allied  Preparation. — Pilula  ferri  carbonatis,  Br. — Pill  of  carbonate  of  iron.  Take  of 
saccharated  carbonate  of  iron,  1 ounce  ; confection  of  rose,  4 ounce ; beat  them  into  a uniform 
mass. 


PILULJE  FERRI  JOB  IDT. 


1243 


Uses. — Under  the  name  of  Blaud’s  pills  this  preparation  has  long  been  used  in  France. 
They  may  be  taken  as  representing  in  a pilular  form  the  compound  mixture  of  iron. 
Bose , one  or  more  pills. 

PILULiE  FERRI  IODIDI,  U.  S.,  Br.— Pills  of  Ferrous  Iodide. 

Pilules  d’iodure  de  fer , P.  de  Blancard,  Fr. ; Eisen jodiir-Pillen , G. 

Preparation. — Reduced  Iron  4.0  Gm.  ; Iodine  5 Gm.  ; Glycyrrhiza,  in  No.  60  pow- 
der. 4.0  Gm. ; Sugar,  in  fine  powder,  4.0  Gm. ; Extract  of  Glycyrrhiza,  in  fine  powder,  1.0 
Gm. ; Acacia,  in  fine  powder,  1.0  Gm. ; Water,  Balsam  of  Tolu,  Ether,  each  a sufficient  quan- 
tity , to  make  100  pills.  To  the  reduced  iron,  contained  in  a porcelain  capsule,  add  about 
6 Cc.  of  water,  and  gradually  add  the  iodine,  constantly  triturating,  until  the  mixture 
ceases  to  have  a reddish  tint.  Then  add  the  remaining  powders,  previously  mixed,  and 
evaporate  the  excess  of  moisture  on  the  water-bath,  constantly  stirring,  until  the  mass 
has  acquired  a pilular  consistence.  Lastly,  divide  it  into  100  pills.  Dissolve  10  Gm. 
of  balsam  of  tolu  in  15  Cc.  of  ether ; shake  the  pills  with  a sufficient  quantity  of  this 
solution  until  the}^  are  uniformly  coated,  and  put  them  on  a plate  to  dry,  occasionally 
stirring  them  until  the  drying  is  completed.  Keep  the  pills  in  a well-stoppered  bottle. 

— U.  S. 

Take  of  fine  iron  wire  40  grains  ; iodine  80  grains  ; refined  sugar,  in  powder,  70  grains  ; 
liquorice  root,  in  powder,  140  grains  ; distilled  water  50  minims.  Agitate  the  iron  with 
the  iodine  and  the  water  in  a strong  stoppered  ounce  phial  until  the  froth  becomes 
white.  Pour  the  fluid  upon  the  sugar  in  a mortar,  triturate  briskly,  and  gradually  add 
the  liquorice. — Br. 

To  make  12  pills  use  reduced  iron  0.480  Gm.  (7J  grains)  ; iodine  0.60  Gm.  (9?  grains)  ; 
glycyrrhiza  and  sugar,  of  each  0.480  Gm.  (71  grains);  extract  of  glycyrrhiza  and  acacia, 
of  each  0.120  Gm.  (2  grains). 

Both  pharmacopoeias  direct  an  excess  of  iron,  but  only. in  the  U.  S.  formula  is  this 
excess  subsequently  incorporated  in  the  pill  mass.  If  the  reduced  iron  were  perfectly 
pure,  1.104  Gm.  would  be  sufficient  to  combine  with  5 Gm.  of  iodine,  yielding  6.104  Gm. 
of  ferrous  iodide. 

Owing  to  the  heat  produced  by  the  reaction  the  iodine  should  be  cautiously  added  in 
small  quantities,  to  avoid  loss  by  vaporization.  Due  precaution  being  exercized,  the 
quantity  of  water  directed  in  this  part  of  the  process  may  even  be  reduced  a little,  as  has 
been  done  by  the  British  Pharmacopoeia,  whereby  subsequent  evaporation  may  be  avoided 
or  materially  lessened  ; if  evaporation  be  necessary,  the  ferrous  iodide  is  sufficiently  pro- 
tected by  the  excess  of  iron  and  by  sugar,  and  without  the  presence  of  the  other  vege- 
table powders,  which  may  be  easily  incorporated  with  the  syrupy  liquid.  Owing  to  the 
gradual  oxidation  when  exposed  to  the  air,  the  pill  mass  should  not  be  kept  on  hand,  but 
should  be  at  once  made  into  pills.  To  protect  these  against  the  influence  of  the  air,  they 
are  directed  to  be  coated  with  a thin  layer  of  tolu  balsam,  or,  according  to  the  French 
Codex,  with  tolu  balsam  and  mastic,  used  in  ethereal  solution.  The  latter  authority — 
whose  process,  has,  in  the  main,  been  adopted  by  the  U.  S.  P.,  with  several  improve- 
ments— does  not  require  an  excess  of  iron  to  be  incorporated  with  the  pill  mass,  but  directs 
the  freshly-made  pills  to  be  rolled  in  finely-powdered  iron,  and  afterward  to  be  coated  as 
stated,  thus  affording  an  additional  protection  to  the  surface  of  the  pill. 

If  properly  made  and  preserved,  these  pills  will  keep  for  years  without  acquiring  the 
smell  of  iodine  or  tarnishing  a strip  of  bright  metal  suspended  in  the  vial.  Should  oxi- 
dation take  place  to  the  extent  of  liberating  iodine,  distilled  water  on  being  triturated  with 
a few  of  the  pills  will  yield  a filtrate  which,  on  the  addition  of  gelatinized  starch,  will  acquire 
a more  or  less  distinct  green  tint,  resulting  from  the  brown-yellow  color  of  the  extractive 
matter  and  the  blue  color  of  iodide  of  starch. 

Each  pill  contains  very  nearly  0.061  Gm.  (1  grain),  U.  S.  P.,  or  about  0.05  Gm.  (f 
grain),  F.  Cod.,  of  ferrous  iodide.  1 grain  of  the  same  compound  is  contained  in  3£ 
grains  of  the  pill  mass,  Br. 

Uses. — These  pills  are  reported  to  be  useful  in  anaemia  and  in  the  scrofulous  or  tuber- 
culous diathesis,  but  the  opinion  is  founded  rather  on  hypothetical  notions  than  upon  clin- 
ical experience.  In  point  of  fact,  glandular  scrofula  and  pulmonary  tuberculosis  are 
neither  identical  nor  closely  allied,  and  while  iodine  and  iron  are  both  useful  in  the  former, 
they  are  usually  injurious  in  the  latter,  except  when  iron  is  demanded  by  the  anaemic  state 
of  the  system  ; but  neither  of  them  touches  the  root  of  the  disease.  Bose , Gm.  0.20-0.40 
(gr.  iij-viij). 


1244 


PIL  TJLJE  GALBANI  COMPOSITE— PHOSPHOR!. 


PILULA  GALBANI  COMPOSITES,  U.  S.  1880.— Compound  Pills 

of  Galbanum. 

Pilula  asafoetida  compos  it  a,  Br. ; Compound  pill  of  asafetida,  E. ; Pilules  de  galbanum 
composees , Fr. ; Galbanum- Pillen,  G. 

Preparation. — Galbanum  9.75  Gm. ; Myrrh  9.75  Gm. ; Asafetida  3.25  Gm. ; Syrup 
a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  100  pills.  Beat  them  together  so  as  to  form  a mass,  and 
divide  it  into  100  pills. — U.  S.  For  12  pills  use  galbanum  and  myrrh,  of  each  1.17  Gm. 

(18  grains),  asafetida  0.39  Gm.  (6  grains). 

Take  of  asafetida,  galbanum,  myrrh,  each  2 ounces  ; treacle,  by  weight,  1 ounce.  Heat 
all  together  by  means  of  a water-bath,  and  stir  the  mass  until  it  assumes  a uniform  con- 
sistence. — Br. 

A similar  pill  was  formerly  official  in  France  as  Pilules  antihysteriques. 

Uses. — "-The  ingredients  of  this  compound  render  it  more  or  less  stimulant  to  the 
mucous  membrane,  and  especially  appropriate  in  chronic  pulmonary  catarrh  and  uterine 
leucorrhoea.  It  is  also  used  in  functional  nervous  disorders,  especially  of  an  hysterical 
nature.  Dose , Gm.  0.30—1.30  (gr.  v-xx),  or  from  two  to  four  pills. 

PILULA  IPECACUANHA  CUM  SCILLA,  Br.—  Pill  of  Ipecacuanha 

and  Squill. 

Preparation.. — Take  of  Compound  Powder  of  Ipecacuanha  3 ounces ; Squill,  in 
powder,  Ammoniacum,  in  powder,  each  1 ounce ; Treacle  a sufficiency.  Mix  the  powders, 
and  beat  into  a mass  with  the  treacle. — Br. 

Uses. — The  presumed  effect  of  this  pill  is  to  mitigate  bronchitis  in  its  chronic,  and 
especially  its  senile  forms,  by  a combined  sedative  and  stimulant  action.  There  can  be 
no  question  of  its  utility  in  many  cases  for  which  the  balsams  and  terebinthinates  are  too 
stimulating.  Dose , Gm.  0.30-0.60  (gr.  v-x). 

PILULA  OPII,  XI.  S. — Pills  of  Opium. 

Pilules  d' opium,  Fr. ; Opiumpillen , G.  ? 

Preparation. — Powdered  Opium  6.50  Gm. ; Soap,  in  fine  powder,  2.0  Gm. ; to  make 
100  pills.  Beat  them  together  with  water,  so  as  to  form  a mass,  and  divide  it  into  100 
pills.—  U.  S.  For  12  pills  use  powdered  opium  0.78  Gm.  (12  grains)  and  soap  0.240  Gm. 

(3  grains). 

Uses. — Very  often  opium  in  substance  is  more  suitable  than  any  of  its  liquid  prepa-  ; 
rations  or  than  the  salts  of  morphine.  This  is  especially  the  case  when  it  is  desirable  to  j 

limit  the  action  of  the  medicine,  as  far  as  possible,  to  the  stomach  and  bowels  in  painful  \ 

affections  of  those  viscera,  and  in  cases  of  vomiting  and  purging , such  as  occur  in  cholera  < 

morbus , idcer  of  the  stomach , gastralgia , typhoid  fever , etc.  In  most  of  these  diseases  the  ‘ 

efficiency  of  the  medicine  is  increased  by  its  slow  solution,  and  hence  in  them  an  old 
opium  pill  is  greatly  preferable  to  a freshly-made  one.  One  pill  may  be  given  for  a dose, 
and  repeated  if  necessary. 

PILULA  PHOSPHORI,  XI.  S.,  Br.— Phosphorus  Pills. 

Pilules  au  phosphore , Pilules  phosphor ees,  Fr. ; Phosphor pillen,  G. 

Preparation. — Phosphorus,  0.06  Gm. ; Althaea,  in  No.  60  powder,  6.00  Gm. ; Aca- 
cia, in  fine  powder,  6.00  Gm. ; Chloroform,  Glycerin,  Water,  Balsam  of  Tolu,  Ether, 
each,  a sufficient  quantity ; to  make  100  pills.  Dissolve  the  phosphorus,  in  a test-tube, 
in  5 Cc.  of  chloroform,  with  the  aid  of  a very  gentle  heat,  replacing  from  time  to  time 
any  of  the  chloroform  which  may  be  lost  by  evaporation.  Mix  the  althaea  and  acacia  in 
a mortar,  next  add  the  solution  of  phosphorus,  then  immediately  afterward  a sufficient 
quantity  (about  4 Cc.)  of  a mixture  of  2 volumes  of  glycerin  and  1 volume  of  water,  and 
quickly  form  a mass,  to  be  divided  into  100  pills.  Dissolve  10  Gm.  of  balsam  of  Tolu  in 
15  Cc.  of  ether,  shake  the  pills  with  a sufficient  quantity  of  this  solution  until  they  are 
uniformly  coated,  and  put  them  on  a plate  to  dry,  occasionally  rolling  them  about  until 
the  drying  is  completed.  Keep  the  pills  in  a well-stoppered  bottle. — U.  S. 

Take  of  phosphorus  3 grains  ; balsam  of  Tolu  120  grains  ; yellow  wax  57  grains.  Put 
the  phosphorus  and  balsam  of  Tolu  into  a Wedgewood  mortar  about  half  full  of  hot  water, 
and,  when  the  phosphorus  has  melted  and  the  balsam  has  become  sufficiently  soft,  rub  them 
together  beneath  the  surface  of  the  water  until  no  particles  of  phosphorus  are  visible,  the 


PILULA  PLUMB  I CUM  0P10.—PILULJE  RHEI  COMPOSITE. 


1245 


temperature  of  the  water  being  maintained  at  or  near  to  140°  F. ; add  now  the  wax,  and 
as  it  softens  mix  it  thoroughly  with  the  other  ingredients.  Allow  the  mass  to  cool 
without  being  exposed  to  the  air,  and  keep  it  immersed  in  cold  water  in  a bottle.  When 
dispensed,  incorporate  2 gr.  of  the  mass  with  curd  soap  1 gr. ; if  necessary,  soften  with 

spirit. — Br. 

Phosphorus  requires  to  be  kept  under  water  and  to  be  weighed  out  under  a liquid  in 
which  it  is  not  oxidized,  either  water  or  chloroform.  By  melting  a small  quantity  of 
phosphorus  under  warm  water  contained  in  a vial,  and  then  agitating  it  well  until  the 
phosphorus  has  solidified,  this  is  obtained  in  small  granules,  which  are  conveniently 
handled,  and  after  having  been  rapidly  dried  with  filtering-paper  are  at  once  dropped  into 
the  previously  tared  liquid  until  the  desired  quantity  has  been  obtained. 

Tolu  as  a vehicle  for  phosphorus  in  pills  was  proposed  by  A.  C.  Abraham  (1874),  who 
observed  that  it  will  retain  4 per  cent,  of  the  latter  if  combined  with  it  in  the  melted  con- 
dition. A.  W.  Gerrard  (1873)  had  previously  made  a similar  observation  with  regard  to 
rosin,  and  this  preparation  became  known  at  the  time  as  phosphoretted  resin ; it  is  pre- 
pared by  melting  the  resin  in  a wide-mouthed  vial,  adding  the  requisite  quantity  of  phos- 
phorus, and  when  it  has  melted  agitating  the  stoppered  vial  until  the  phosphorus  is 
dissolved.  Like  resin,  it  may  be  powdered,  and,  like  the  pill  mass  of  the  British  Phar- 
macopoeia, it  should  be  kept  under  water  to  prevent  oxidation.  W.  H.  Walling  (1875) 
found  cacao  butter  very  serviceable ; 300  grains  of  it  are  melted  in  a vial,  25  grains  of 
phosphorus  are  added,  the  vial  is  corked  and  well  agitated  until  solution  has  been  effected, 
and  afterward  with  200  grains  of  powdered  soap  until  a uniform  mixture  is  obtained.  E. 
Lilly  (1876)  suggested  fusing  6 parts  of  phosphorus  under  260  parts  of  syrup,  agitating 
well  to  effect  its  fine  division,  and  incorporating  with  340  parts  of  flour ; formulas  similar 
to  this  one  are  often  followed  in  Europe.  W.  B.  Addington  (1875)  proposed  to  dissolve 
the  phosphorus  in  sufficient  carbon  disulphide,  and  to  incorporate  the  solution  in  a mortar 
with  a suitable  extract,  continuing  the  trituration  until  the  solvent  has  evaporated ; the 
extract  may  be  replaced  by  soap,  resin,  or  other  suitable  material.  This  process  has  been 
adopted  by  the  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia,  which,  however,  uses  the  far  preferable  chloroform 
as  a solvent,  which,  aside  from  its  odor,  has  the  advantage  of  not  being  inflammable, 
while  its  vapor  prevents  the  oxidation  of  the  phosphorus.  (See  Phosphorus.) 

Uses. — This  is  one  of  the  forms  in  which  phosphorus  may  be  prescribed  internally 
Bose,  Gm.  0.15-0.30  (gr.  iij-vj),  or  one  or  two  pills. 

PILULA  PLUMBI  CUM  OPIO,  Br. — Pill,  of  Lead  and  Opium. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Lead  Acetate,  in  fine  powder,  36  grains ; Opium,  in  powder, 
6 grains ; Confection  of  Boses,  6 grains.  Beat  them  into  a uniform  mass. — Br. 

Uses. — 2£  grains  of  acetate  of  lead  and  4 grain  of  opium  are  contained  in  every  3 
grains  of  this  mass.  The  association  of  the  two  medicines  is  of  great  benefit  in  chronic 
diarrhoea,  dysentery,  and  bronchitis,  but  as  the  proportion  in  which  they  ought  to  be 
employed  should  vary  in  almost  every  case,  a fixed  formula  for  their  union  appears 
superfluous.  Dose,  Gm.  0.20—0.30  (gr.  iij — v). 

PILULiE  RHEI,  JJ.  S. — Pills  of  Rhubarb. 

Pilvles  de  rhubarbe , Fr. ; Rhabarberpillen,  G. 

Preparation. — Rhubarb,  in  fine  powder,  20  Gm. ; Soap  in  fine  powder,  6 Gm. ; to 
make  100  pills.  Beat  them  together  with  water  so  as  to  form  a mass,  and  divide  it  into 
100  pills. — U.  S.  For  12  pills  use  rhubarb  2.40  Gm.  (36  grains),  soap  0.72  Gm.  (12 

grains). 

Soap  is  an  excellent  excipient  for  rhubarb  and  many  other  powders. 

Uses. — One  of  these  pills,  containing  3 grains  of  rhubarb,  acts  as  a mild  laxative, 
especially  when  taken  after  a meal  or  at  bedtime,  unless  the  constipation  be  decided. 
They  are  generally  prescribed  to  relieve  slowness  of  defecation  rather  than  actual  con- 
stipation. Dose,  from  one  to  three  pills. 

PILUL2E  RHEI  COMPOSITE,  JJ.  S.,  Br.— Compound  Pills  of 

Rhubarb. 

Compound  rhubarb  pills,  E. ; Pilules  de  rhubarbe  composers,  Fr. ; Rhabarber  und  Aloe- 

pillen,  G. 

Preparation. — Rhubarb,  in  No.  60  powder,  13  Gm. ; Purified  Aloes,  in  fine  pow- 


1246 


PILULA  S A FONTS  COM  POSIT  A .—SCILLJE  COM  POSIT  A. 


der,  10  Gm. ; Myrrh,  in  fine  powder,  6 Gm. ; Oil  of  Peppermint,  0.5  Cc. ; to  make  100 
pills.  Beat  them  together  with  water  so  as  to  form  a mass,  and  divide  it  into  100  pills. — 

U.  S.  For  12  pills  use  rhubarb  1.56  Gm.  (24  grains);  aloes  1.20  Gm.  (18  grains); 
myrrh  0.72  Gm.  (12  grains)  ; oil  of  peppermint  about  2 drops. 

Take  of  rhubarb-root,  in  powder,  3 ounces;  Socotrine  aloes,  in  powder,  2\  ounces; 
myrrh,  in  powder,  hard  soap,  in  powder,  each  1|  ounces;  oil  of  peppermint  1J  fluid- 
drachms  ; glycerin  1 ounce ; treacle  about  3 ounces.  Mix  the  powders  with  the  oil,  then 
add  the  glycerin  and  sufficient  treacle,  and  beat  the  whole  into  a uniform  mass. — Br. 

Uses. — Compound  pills  of  rhubarb  are  among  the  best  medicines  for  the  relief  of 
habitual  costiveness  depending  upon  atony  of  the  large  intestine  and  flatulent  dyspepsia. 

In  all  cases  of  habitual  constipation  the  milder  should  be  preferred  to  the  harsher  purga- 
tives, and  the  repetition  at  short  intervals  of  a small  dose  is  more  efficient  than  a single 
large  one.  This  rule  applies  particularly  to  all  purgatives  that  act  slowly,  such  as  rhubarb 
and  aloes.  Flatulence , whether  gastric  or  intestinal,  is  a serious  hindrance  to  the  proper 
movements  of  the  muscular  walls  of  the  digestive  canal,  and  tends  to  hinder  the  progress 
of  the  alimentary  or  fecal  mass  and  increase  its  fermentation,  with  the  production  of  gas 
or  of  the  acrid  and  irritating  products  of  its  decomposition.  Such  results  are  more  or 
less  prevented  by  the  stimulating  operation  of  medicines  of  the  class  to  which  these  pills 
belong.  Dose , from  one  to  four  pills. 

PILULA  SAPONIS  COMPOSITA,  JSr.— Compound  Pill  op  Soap. 

Pilula  opii , Br.  1864. 

Preparation. — Take  of  opium,  in  powder,  i ounce;  hard  soap,  in  powder,  2 ounces; 
Glycerin  a sufficiency.  Mix  the  opium  and  soap,  and  beat  into  a mass  with  the  glycerin. 
—Br. 

Compound  soap  pill  (ZZ  S.  P.  1870)  was  identical  with  this,  hut  was  prepared  with 
water  in  the  place  of  glycerin. 

Uses. — This  preparation  contains  1 grain  of  opium  in  5 of  the  mass.  Its  merit  is 
supposed  to  consist  in  its  ready  solubility  in  the  gastric  juices  and  its  being  a convenient  ' 
vehicle  for  prescribing  opium  under  another  name.  Dose,  Gm.  0.20-0.30  (gr.  iij— v),  or 
one  or  two  pills. 

PILULA  SOAMMONII  COMPOSITA,  Br.— Compound  Scammony 

Pill. 

Pilules  de  scammonee  composees,  Fr. ; Scammoniumpillen , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Besin  of  Scammony,  Besin  of  Jalap,  Curd  Soap,  in  powder, 
each  1 ounce  ; Strong  Tincture  of  Ginger  1 fluidounce ; Bectified  Spirit  2 fluidounces. 
Add  the  spirit  and  tincture  to  the  soap  and  resins,  and  dissolve  with  the  aid  of  a gentle 
heat ; then  evaporate  the  spirit  by  the  heat  of  a water-bath  until  the  mass  has  acquired 
a suitable  consistence  for  forming  pills. — Br. 

The  process  adopted  furnishes  a very  good  pill  mass,  in  which  the  resins  are  uniformly 
divided  through  the  agency  of  the  soap,  which  also  keeps  them  in  suspension  when  the 
mass  is  macerated  with  water.  A similar  preparation  which  does  not  contain  scammony, 
has  been  in  use  for  a long  time  in  continental  Europe.  (See  Besina  Jalaps.) 

Uses. — In  this  preparation  the  compound  powder  of  scammony  assumes  a pilular 
form.  It  may  he  prescribed  when  drastic  purgation  is  required  in  dropsy , congestion  of 
the  brain  or  liver , etc.  Dose , from  Gm.  0.30-1  (gr.  v-xv). 

PILULA  SCILLZE  COMPOSITA,  Br.— Compound  Squill  Pill. 

Pilules  de  scille  composees , Fr. ; Meerzwiebelpillen , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Squill,  in  powder,  l{  ounces  ; Ginger,  in  powder,  Ammoniac, 
in  powder,  Hard  Soap,  in  powder,  each  1 ounce ; Treacle,  by  weight,  2 ounces  or  a suf- 
ficiency. Mix  the  powders,  add  the  treacle,  and  heat  into  a uniform  mass. — Br. 

Compound  pills  of  squill  ( U.  S.  P.  1870)  contained  each  squill  \ grain,  ginger  1 grain, 
ammoniac  1 grain,  and  soap  1?  grains. 

Uses. — The  stimulant  action  of  these  pills  upon  the  bronchial  mucous  membrane 
makes  them  appropriate  in  the  treatment  of  chronic  bronchitis  when  it  is  attended  with 
excessive  secretion.  The  ginger  in  the  compound  probably  renders  it  less  hurtful  to 
the  stomach  than  it  would  be  without  that  ingredient.  Dose , two  pills  two  or  three 
times  a day. 


mi  ENT  A .—PIPER. 


1247 


PIMENTA,  JJ.  S.,  Br. — Pimenta  ; Allspice. 

Semen  amomi , Piper  jamaicense. — Pimento , E. ; Piment  de  la  Jamaiqne , Toute-epice , 
Fr. ; Nelke npfeffer,  Englisches  Gewiirz , Neugewurz , G. ; Pimienta  gorda,  P.  de  Tabaso , 

Malaguecta , Sp. 

The  nearly  ripe  fruit  of  Pimenta  officinalis,  Lindley , s.  Eugenia  Pimenta,  De  Candolle , 
s.  Myrtus  Pimenta,  Linne , s.  P.  vulgaris,  Wight  et  Arnott.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  i/cc?. 

/tas,  ill. 

jVotf.  Ore?. — Myrtaceae. 

Origin. — The  allspice  tree  is  indigenous  to  the  West  Indies,  Central  America,  and  the 
northern  part  of  South  America,  and  has  been  introduced  into  other  tropical  countries. 
It  is  slender,  has  opposite,  entire,  oblong  or  oval  oblong,  obtuse,  and  pellucid  punctate 
leaves,  and  small  white  racemose  flowers,  the  terminal  ones  being  sessile  and  the  lateral 
ones  peduncled.  The  fruit  is  collected  before  it  is 
ripe,  but  after  it  has  attained  its  full  size. 

Description. — Allspice  is  nearly  globular,  5 Mm. 

(4  inch)  or  less  in  diameter,  and  crowned  above  with 
the  short  four-parted  calyx  limb,  or  marked  by  its 
remnants,  which  surround  a shallow  depression  con- 
taining a short  style.  The  pericarp  is  of  a reddish- 
brown  or  brown-gray  color,  and  a granular  appearance 
externally,  lighter  internally,  woody,  but  thin  and  fra- 
gile, and  contains  numerous  oil-cells.  The  berry  has 
two  cells,  each  with  a single  brown,  plano-convex, 
roundish-reniform  seed  enclosing  the  spirally-curved, 
dark  purplish-brown  embryo.  Allspice  has  an  agree- 
able pungently  aromatic  odor  and  taste,  with  a flavor 
resembling  that  of  cloves. 

Constituents. — The  most  important  constituent 
is  the  volatile  oil  (see  Oleum  Pimento),  of  which 
the  fruit  yields  3 to  4 per  cent.  Bonastre  (1826) 
examined  the  fruit  deprived  of  the  seeds,  and  the 
latter  separately,  and  obtained  from  them  10  to  5 
per  cent.,  respectively,  of  volatile  oil ; they  also  con- 
tain resin,  tannin,  fixed  oil,  sugar,  mucilage,  etc. 

Action  and  Uses. — Pimento  is  an  aromatic 
stimulant,  and,  like  other  agents  of  its  class  contain- 
ing an  essential  oil,  is  used  as  a condiment  to  stim- 
ulate the  digestive  organs  when  they  are  suffering 
from  exhaustion,  and  particularly  from  the  debility  caused  by  the  prolonged  heat  of 
summer  in  tropical  regions.  In  medical  practice  it  is  chiefly  employed  to  relieve  flatu- 
lence, to  augment  the  effect  of  vegetable  tonics,  and  to  correct  the  tendency  of  purgatives 
to  produce  griping,  or  to  cover  the  nauseous  taste  of  certain  medicines.  It  may  be  given 
in  infusion,  but  the  oil  of  pimento  is  more  generally  used.  Like  capsicum,  pimento  may 
be  incorporated  with  Burgundy  pitch  or  lead  plaster  to  produce  local  stimulant,  anodyne, 
and  revulsive  effects  in  neuralgia  and  rheumatism , or  the  extract  itself  may  be  spread 
upon  cloth.  Its  application  rapidly  produces  a sense  of  warmth  in  the  part  to  which  it 
is  applied,  followed  by  smarting  and  redness. 

PIPER,  JJ.  S. — Black  Pepper. 

Piper  nigrum,  Br.  ; Poivre  noir , Fr.  Cod.  ; Schwarzer  Pfeffer , G. ; Pimienta  negra,  Sp. 

The  unripe  berries  of  Piper  nigrum,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 245. 

A at.  Ord. — Piperaceae. 

Origin. — Black  pepper  is  a climbing  shrub  indigenous  to  India,  and  at  present  culti- 
vated in  most  of  the  East  Indian  and  Philippine  and  some  of  the  West  Indian  islands. 
It  has  smooth,  alternate,  petiolate,  ovate,  acute,  and  entire,  five-  or  seven-nerved  leaves, 
opposite  to  which  elongated  spikes  of  monoecious  or  dioecious  flowers  are  produced,  fol- 
lowed by  sessile,  berry-like  fruits,  which  change  from  green  to  red.  and  finally  yellow. 
The  spikes  are  gathered  as  soon  as  some  of  the  fruits  begin  to  turn  red  ; the  next  day 
the  berries  are  rubbed  off  with  the  hands,  and  dried  either  near  a fire  or  in  the  sun. 

Description. — Black  pepper  is  globular,  about  4 Mm.  (4  inch)  in  diameter,  reticu- 


Fig.  223. 


Pimenta  officinalis,  Lindley. 


1248 


PIPER. 


lately  wrinkled  on  the  surface  from  the  dried  and  contracted  thin  sarcocarp,  blackish- 
brown  or  grayish-black  externally,  lighter  colored  internally,  and  encloses  a single  glob- 
ular seed,  which  is  whitish,  mealy,  and  contains  an  undeveloped  embryo  in  a central 
cavity.  Pepper  has  a peculiar  aromatic  odor  and  a hot  and  pungent  taste.  Piper  tri- 
oicum,  Roxburgh , of  India,  yields  a very  similar  fruit. 

Constituents. — Black  pepper  was  examined  by  Oersted  (1819),  who  announced  the 
discovery  of  piperin , and  by  Pelletier  and  Poutet  (1820),  who  recognized  the  presence 
of  volatile  oil,  acrid  resin,  starch,  gum,  etc.  W.  Johnstone  (1889)  isolated  0.56  per  cent, 
(from  long  pepper  0.34  per  cent.,  and  from  white  pepper  traces)  of  a volatile  alkaloid, 
which  is  probably  identical  with  piperidine.  Willert  (1817)  ascribed  the  acrid  taste  to  I 
the  soft  resin,  which  conclusion  was  corroborated  by  Pelletier.  According  to  Buchheim  j 

(1876),  pepper  contains  an  amorphous  alkaloid,  chavi- 
cine , which  may  be  obtained  from  the  ethereal  solution 
of  the  alcoholic  extract  by  agitating  it  with  potassa 
solution  to  remove  chlorophyll,  resin,  and  fat  acids, 
and  evaporating ; fat  is  removed  by  treatment  with 
benzin,  and  piperin  is  left  behind  by  repeated  solution 
in  a little  ether.  Thus  obtained,  chavicine  is  yellowish- 
brown,  of  the  consistence  of  turpentine,  has  a strongly 
acrid  taste,  and  when  in  alcoholic  solution,  boiled  with 
potassa,  is  said  to  yield  piperidine  (see  below)  and 
amorphous  chavicic  acid.  Lecanu  obtained  1.17  per 
cent,  of  volatile  oil  from  black  and  1.04  per  cent, 
from  white  pepper.  Oil  of  pepper  is  colorless,  lighter 
than  water,  commences  to  boil  at  167.5°  C.  (333.5°  F.), 
and  was  found  by  Dumas  (1835)  to  be  isomeric  with 
oil  of  turpentine.  It  has  the  odor  of  pepper,  but  is  \ 
destitute  of  its  pungent  taste,  and  yields  with  dry  * 
hydrochloric  acid  gas  a liquid  compound. 

The  pungent  resin  is  dark-green,  soluble  in  alcohol, 
ether,  and  alkalies,  and,  in  connection  with  other  con-  J 
stituents  of  pepper,  also  in  water.  Pepper  yields  about 
5 per  cent,  of  ash. 

Adulterations. — Ground  pepper  is  frequently 
adulterated  with  various  farinaceous  substances,  the  ; 
press-cake  of  flaxseed,  capsicum,  and  other  materials.  { 
The  adulterations  are  best  detected  by  the  microscope.  ; 
With  the  view  of  determining  the  presence  of  adul-  j 
terations  in  ground  pepper,  A.  W.  Blyth  (1874)  exam- 
ined black  pepper  from  five  different  localities,  with  the  following  results : Loss  by  the  < 
heat  of  a water-bath  (moisture  and  volatile  oil),  9.531  to  12.908,  mean  10.95  per  cent. ; 
ash  (for  dried  pepper),  total,  4.189  to  5.770,  mean  4.845  per  cent.,  and  soluble  in  water, 
2.212  to' 3.453,  mean  2.84  per  cent. ; alcoholic  extract,  dried,  6.30  to  7.836,  mean  6.922 
per  cent. ; hot-water  extract,  16.50  to  20.375,  mean  18.177  per  cent. 

Other  Peppers. — Piper  Album,  White  pepper , consists  of  the  fruit  of  black  pepper,  which 
is  immersed  in  water  and  with  the  hands  deprived  of  the  epicarp  and  sarcocarp.  It  consists  of 
the  seed,  ■which  is  composed  of  a large  wrhite  mealy  perisperm  united  at  the  apex  with  a small 
endosperm,  in  which  the  embryo  is  enclosed,  the  whole  being  enclosed  in  the  reddish-brown  testa, 
and  this  is  covered  -with  the  white,  soft,  inner  tissue  of  the  fruit,  in  which  about  ten  light  lines 
are  observable  running  from  the  base  toward  the  apex.  White  pepper  is  rather  larger  and  less 
pungent  than  black  pepper,  but  contains  the  same  constituents.  A factitious  white  pepper  is 
said  to  have  been  sometimes  put  into  the  market,  made  from  black  pepper  by  rubbing  off  the 
outer  layers ; it  is  easily  recognized  by  its  smaller  size  and  large  central  cavity.  White  pepper 
yielded  to  Blyth  7.650  per  cent,  of  alcoholic  extract,  but  only  1.120  per  cent,  of  ash,  one-half  of 
which  was  soluble  in  water. 

Piper  longum,  Long  pepper  (Poivre  long,  Fr.  Cod.,  Pimiento  larga,  Sp.),  consists  of  the  spikes 
of  Piper  (Chavica,  Miquet)  officinarum,  Be  Candolle , which  is  indigenous  to  Java.  The  nearly- 
allied  Piper  longum  Linnt,  s.  Chavica  Roxburghii,  Miquel  (Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 
244),  is  likewise  a shrub,  but  is  found  in  India,  Ceylon,  and  the  Philippines.  The  spikes  of  the 
full-grown  but  still  immature  fruits  are  collected ; they  are  25-38  Mm.  (1  to  II  inches)  long, 
nearly  cylindrical,  covered  wTith  the  closely-packed,  coalesced  fruits,  and  agree  with  black  pepper 
in  odor,  taste,  and  composition.  In  the  amount  of  hygroscopic  moisture  and  hot-water  extract 
long  pepper  gives  results  agreeing  with  those  mentioned  above ; but  Blyth  obtained  2.60  per 
cent,  of  alcoholic  extract  and  8.308  per  cent.  (4.472  soluble  in  wuiter)  of  ash. 


Fig.  224. 


PIPERAZINUM. 


1249 


Piper  (Macropiper,  Miquel ) methysticum,  Forster.  (See  page  1025.) 

Piper  reticulatum,  Limit,  has  a pungently  aromatic  root,  which  is  employed  in  Brazil  for  its 
stimulating  properties. 

Piper  (Chavica,  Miquel)  betle,  Limit.  (See  page  1025.) 

Piper  (Chayica,  Miquel)  Siriboa,  Limit , has  leaves  which  are  used  like  the  preceding,  and 
are  of  a similar  appearance,  but  less  distinctly  heart-shaped. 

Piper  (Artanthe,  Miquel)  crocatum,  Ruiz  et  Pavon.  It  is  indigenous  to  Peru-,  the  leaves 
and  berries  have  a peppery  taste ; the  ripe  spikes  are  employed  for  dyeing  yellow. 

Piper  anisatum,  Kiinth.  It  is  found  in  the  northern  part  of  South  America;  the  leaves  and 
berries  have  an  anise-like  taste. 

Action  and  Uses. — Black  pepper  is  a powerful  local  and  general  stimulant,  a qual- 
ity which  it  owes  to  its  concrete  and  volatile  oils,  and,  when  taken  internally,  it  also  prob- 
ably exerts  a special  and  more  sustained  influence  upon  the  nervous  system  through  its 
peculiar  principle,  piperin.  Applied  to  the  skin,  powdered  pepper  occasions  severe  pain 
and  redness ; in  the  mouth  and  throat  in  large  quantities  it  excites  intense  burning,  and 
in  the  stomach  a sense  of  diffusive  warmth  with  some  acceleration  of  the  pulse.  In  very 
large  doses  it  excites  a burning  heat  throughout  the  abdomen,  thirst  and  vomiting,  some- 
times fever,  and  occasionally  convulsions.  In  some  cases  heat  and  tingling  are  felt  in  the 
palms  of  the  hands  and  in  the  soles  of  the  feet,  followed  by  a sense  of  coolness  in  these 
parts.  It  augments  the  urine  and  irritates  the  bladder  and  urethra,  and  may  produce  a 
transient  eruption  of  urticaria  upon  the  skin. 

Black  pepper  is,  of  all  condiments  except  salt,  the  most  extensively  used  to  facilitate 
the  digestion  of  soups  and  watery  vegetables.  Anciently,  it  was  one  of  the  most  approved 
remedies  for  intermittent  fever , and  in  modern  times  a large  number  of  examples  attest  its 
efficacy,  both  in  the  form  of  the  crude  drug  and  as  piperin.  There  can  be  no  doubt 
that  in  many  cases  it  has  effected  complete  cures,  but  it  is  more  generally  employed  in 
connection  with  quinine  when  the  latter  alone  has  failed,  and  often  with  advantage. 
Whether  its  efficiency  is  due  to  its  own  antiperiodic  properties,  or  to  its  rendering  the 
system  more  susceptible  to  the  action  of  quinine,  is  undecided.  Pepper  is  sometimes  used 
in  poultices  to  promote  the  resolution  of  enlarged  lymphatic  glands  ; in  gargles  to  stimu- 
late the  throat  and  gums  in  flaccid  conditions  of  these  parts ; and  in  plasters  for  the  relief 
of  muscidar  rheumatism  and  to  assuage  headache , colic , and  other  local  pains.  In  powder 
it  has  been  used  to  destroy  head  lice.  Anciently,  it  was  employed  as  a topical  applica- 
tion to  haemorrhoids , and  in  recent  times  the  confection  of  pepper  has  been  given  inter- 
nally for  a like  purpose.  In  some  cases  of  fistula  in  ano,  of  gleet,  and  of  leucorrhoea  it 
has  been  found  very  serviceable. 

Powdered  pepper  may  be  given  as  a stomachic  stimulant  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.30-1.30 
(gr.  v-xx),  or  as  a condiment  mixed  with  food.  As  an  antiperiodic  eight  or  ten  pepper- 
corns may  be  taken  two  or  three  times  a day. 


PIPERAZINUM . — Piperazine  . 

Piperazidine  ; Ethylene-imine  ; Diethylene- diamine ; Dispermine. 

Formula  (C2H4NH)2  = C4H10N2.  Molecular  weight  85.9. 

A synthetical  compound,  at  one  time  supposed  to  be  identical  with  spermine,  but  found 
to  differ  from  the  same  both  in  chemical  and  physiological  action. 

Preparation. — When  ammonia  is  allowed  to  act  upon  ethylene  bromide  or  chloride, 
a mixture  of  salts  of  different  bases  is  obtained,  consisting  of  ethylene  diamine,  triethyl- 
ene diamine,  diethylene  triamine,  tetraethylene  triamine,  and  diethylene  diamine.  In 
order  to  separate  the  last-named  base  the  solution  of  the  mixed  salts  is  treated  with  an 
excess  of  sodium  or  potassium  nitrite  and  heated  to  60°  or  70°  C.  (140°-158°  F.),  which 
causes  dinitrosopiperazine  to  separate  as  a scaly  crystalline  mass ; this  is  soluble  with  dif- 
ficulty in  cold,  but  readily  soluble  in  hot,  water  and  melts  at  154°  C.  (309.2°  F.).  This 
compound,  when  treated  with  concentrated  acids  or  reducing  agents,  yields  ammonia  and 
salts  of  piperazine,  from  which  the  pure  base  is  obtained  by  distillation  with  alkalies. 

Properties. — Piperazine  occurs  in  colorless  crystalline  masses  of  faint  but  charac- 
teristic odor  ; it  melts  at  104°-107°  C.  (219.2°-224.6°  F.),  and  boils  at  145°  C.  (293°  F ). 
from  the  air  it  greedily  absorbs  water  and  carbon  dioxide,  and  liquefies  in  so  doing. 
Crystallized  from  water,  piperazine  forms  shiny  glassy  tablets.  It  is  a strong  base,  very 
soluble  in  water  and  somewhat  less  so  in  alcohol ; its  solution  rapidly  changes  red  litmus- 
paper  to  blue.  Aqueous  chromic  acid  is  without  effect  on  piperazine,  but  potassium  per- 
mangate  oxidizes  it  even  in  the  cold.  An  aqueous  solution  of  piperazine  is  precipitated 
hy  mercuric  chloride,  cupric  sulphate,  tannin,  picric  acid,  and  Nessler’s  reagent.  The 


79 


1250 


PIPERINUM. 


most  important  property  of  the  base  is  its  power  of  forming  a readily  soluble  compound 
with  uric  acid,  having  twelve  times  the  solvent  power  of  lithium  carbonate  in  this  respect, 
the  piperazine  urate  formed  being  soluble  in  50  parts  of  water. 

Action  and  Uses. — Piperazine  is  held  to  fulfil  the  conditions  required  for  eliminating 
from  the  system  an  excess  of  uric  acid , inasmuch  as  it  is  diuretic,  forms  with  the  acid  a 
neutral  salt  which  is  soluble  in  50  parts  of  water ; does  not  undergo  decomposition  in 
the  body  ; and  is  harmless.  Uric  acid  calculi  and  sand  dissolve  in  a solution  of  piper- 
azine more  quickly  than  in  one  of  lithium  or  sodium.  It  will  combine  with  seven  times 
more  uric  acid  than  lithium  will,  forming  with  it  a urate  twelve  times  more  soluble  than 
that  of  lithium.  It  is  said  to  be  a solvent  of  oxalic  and  phosphatic,  as  well  of  uric  acid 
concretions,  and  to  be  serviceable  topically  as  well  as  internally  in  reducing  gouty  swell- 
ings. The  latter  statement,  however,  has  been  controverted.  A case  of  urticaria'  in  a 
gouty  patient  has  been  attributed  to  its  use.  The  daily  amount  of  piperazine  recom- 
mended is  Gm.  1-3  (gr.  xv-xlv)  a day,  given  in  divided  doses  and  dissolved  in  an  abun- 
dance of  carbonated  water. 

PIPERINUM,  U.  S.— Piperin. 

Piperine , Fr.  ; Piperin.  G. 

Formula  C17H]9NOa.  Molecular  weight  284.34. 

A neutral  principle  obtained  from  pepper,  and  occurring  also  elsewhere  in  plants  of 
the  nat.  ord.  Piperacese. 

Origin. — Piperin  was  discovered  by  Oerstedt  (1819),  and  obtained  pure  by  Pelletier 
and  Poutet  (1820).  It  has  been  prepared  from  black,  white,  and  long  pepper,  and  by 
Stenhouse  (1855)  from  the  fruit  of  Cubeba  Clusii,  Miquel. 

Preparation. — It  is  most  readily  prepared  from  the  alcoholic  extract  of  white 
pepper  by  treating  it  with  potassa  solution,  which  dissolves  the  resin,  washing  the  residue 
with  water,  and  purifying  it  by  repeated  crystallization  from  alcohol.  On  neutralizing  : 
the  potassa  solution  with  an  acid  the  pungent  resin  is  obtained.  Wittstein’s  process  is 
as  follows:  16  parts  of  black  pepper  are  exhausted  with  cold  water,  and  afterward  with 
alcohol ; the  alcoholic  extract  is  washed  with  water,  digested  with  alcohol  and  1 part  of  [ 
slaked  lime,  and  the  solution  concentrated ; the  crystals  are  purified  by  recrystallization 
and  treatment  with  animal  charcoal.  The  yield  varies  between  5 and  9 per  cent. 

Properties. — Pure  piperin  crystallizes  in  colorless  flat,  four-sided  prisms  of  a glassy 
lustre  and  is  almost  tasteless.  As  usually  met  with,  it  is  of  a yellowish  color,  inodorous, 
and  has  at  first  a slight,  but  on  continued  mastication  or  in  alcoholic  solution  a sharp, 
peppery  taste.  It  remains  unaltered  on  exposure,  has  a neutral  reaction  to  test-paper,  is  ] 
nearly  insoluble  in  water,  and  dissolves  in  volatile  oils,  in  60  parts  of  cold  ether  (Merck),  i 

in  30  parts  of  cold  and  1 part  of  boiling  80  per  cent,  alcohol  (Wittstein),  and  freely  ; 

in  acetic  acid ; the  last  two  solutions  are  precipitated  on  the  addition  of  water.  It  is 
likewise  soluble  in  chloroform,  benzene,  and  benzin.  At  130°  C.  (266°  F.)  it  melts  like  < 
wax  to  a yellowish  oily  liquid,  which  on  cooling  congeals  to  a mass  of  resinous  appear- 
ance ; when  fused  it  may  be  ignited  and  burns  with  a bright  flame,  leaving  a light  char- 
coal, which  is  readily  consumed  by  heating  it  in  the  air.  Sulphuric  acid  colors  it  blood- 
red,  the  color  disappearing  on  the  addition  of  water,  leaving  the  piperin  unaltered  if  the 
action  of  the  acid  had  not  been  prolonged  (Pelletier).  The  solution  of  piperin  in  sul- 
phuric acid  is  yellow,  becoming  dark-brown,  and  finally  green-brown  (Dragendorff). 
Nitric  acid  colors  piperin  successively  greenish-yellow,  orange,  and  red,  and  dissolves  it 
with  a yellow  color,  the  solution  separating  yellow  floccules  on  the  addition  of  water;  by 
prolonging  the  action  of  the  acid  oxalic  acid  and  a yellow  bitter  compound  are  produced 
(Pelletier).  The  resin  resulting  from  this  reaction  becomes  blood-red  on  the  addition  of 
potassa,  and  on  heating  the  mixture  piperidine  is  given  off  (Anderson,  1850).  Piperin 
is  a very  weak  base,  and  its  salts  are  decomposed  by  water ; crystallizable  double  salts, 
soluble  in  alcohol,  may  be  obtained  with  the  chlorides  of  mercury,  platinum,  and  cad- 
mium. By  dry  distillation  with  soda-lime  piperidine  is  obtained.  Boiled  with  alcoholic  solu- 
tion of  potassa,  piperin  was  found  by  Babo  and  Keller  (1856)  to  be  resolved  into  piperic 
acid , C]2H10O4,  and  piperidine , C5IIi,N.  Piperic  acid  is  in  hair-like  yellowish  needles 
which  fuse  at  150°  C.  (302°  F.),  and  at  a higher  temperature  volatilize  partly  unaltered, 
at  the  same  time  giving  off  a coumarin-like  odor.  Piperidine  is  a colorless  liquid  of  an 
ammoniacal  and  pepper-like  odor,  and  when  largely  diluted  of  a bitter  taste.  It  boils  at 
106°  C.  (222.8°  F.),  has  a strong  alkaline  reaction,  dissolves  freely  in  water  and  alcohol, 
and  yields  with  acids  crystallizable  salts ; the  piperate  of  piperidine  crystallizes  in  silky 


PISCIDIA. 


1251 


scales,  which  on  being  heated  give  off  a part  of  the  alkaloid.  Ladenburg  (1884) 
obtained  a small  quantity  of  piperidine  synthetically  by  treating  an  alcoholic  solution  of 
pyridine  with  sodium. 

Derivative  Compounds. — Piperonal,  Heliotropin,  C8H603.  By  boiling  piperin  for  some  time 
(twenty-four  hours)  with  an  alcoholic  solution  of  potassa,  potassium  piperate  is  formed  and  crys- 
tallizes in  shining  prisms ; this  is  dissolved  in  40-50  parts  of  hot  water  and  slowly  mixed,  under 
constant  stirring,  with  a solution  of  potassium  permanganate  (2  parts  of  the  latter  salt  to  1 of 
the  piperate).  The  resulting  magma  is  put  on  a strainer  and  repeatedly  washed  with  hot  water 
until  the  odor  of  heliotropin  entirely  disappears ; the  united  liquids  are  distilled,  and  from  the 
first  portions  of  the  distillate  the  larger  portion  of  piperonal  separates  in  crystals : the  remainder 
is  obtained  by  shaking  the  distillate  with  ether.  Piperonal  occurs  in  small  white  crystals,  soluble 
in  about  600  parts  of  cold  water,  and  very  readily  soluble  in  alcohol  and  ether.  It  has  been  used 
as  an  antiseptic  and  antipyretic  in  doses  of  10-15  grains  every  three  hours,  but  is  chiefly  employed 
in  perfumery. 

Uses. — Piperin  has  been  chiefly  used  as  an  adjuvant  to  or  a substitute  for  quinine  in 
the  treatment  of  intermittent  fever , and  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.5  (gr.  vi)  three  or  four  times 
a day.  Piperonal  is  said  to  be  antiseptic  and  antipyretic.  It  has  been  prescribed  in 
doses  of  Gm.  1 (gr.  xv). 

PISCIDIA.— Piscidia. 

Jamaica  dogwood , E. ; Bois  enivrante , Piscidie , Fr.,  G. ; Colorin  de  peces,  Sp. 

The  bark  of  the  root  of  Piscidia  Erythrina,  Jacquin. 

Nat.  Ord — Leguminosse,  Papilionaceae. 

Origin. — This  is  a West  Indian  tree,  about  6 M.  (20  feet)  high.  It  has  impari- 
pinnate  leaves,  with  about  seven  ovate  entire  leaflets,  and  paniculate  racemes  of  whitish 
and  deep-red  flowers,  producing  linear  four-winged  racemes.  The  wood  of  the  trunk  is 
heavy,  brown,  coarse-grained,  and  very  durable. 

Description. — Piscidia-bark  comes  in  quills  about  12  Mm.  (J  inch)  in  diameter,  or 
in  flat  or  curved  sections  25  or  50  Mm.  (1  or  2 inches)  broad,  10  or  15  Cm.  (4  or  6 
inches)  long,  and  from  2 to  4 or  6 Mm.  (-jL  to  1 or  J inch)  thick.  It  is  covered  with  a 
corky  layer  having  a bright  orange-brown,  or  occasionally  a whitish,  color,  and  a roughish 
wrinkled  or  somewhat  fissured  appearance.  When  the  cork  is  detached  the  outer  surface 
of  the  bark  is  of  a dark  ash-gray  color,  with  a brown  or  blackish  tint,  and  has  slight  wavy 
longitudinal  wrinkles  and  thin  transverse  ridges.  The  inner  surface  is  brownish  and 
smooth,  or  from  the  bared  bast-bundles  more  or  less  fibrous.  In  the  interior  the  tissue 
is  of  a brownish-green  or  blue-green  color,  apparently  due  to  chlorophyll  contained  in 
the  parenchyma.  The  bark  consists  mainly  of  the  liber,  in  which  the  transversely  elon- 
gated bast-bundles  are  arranged  in  irregular  circles  separated  by  parenchyma,  and  in 
radial  rows  between  the  rather  broad  medullary  rays.  It  breaks  with  a tough  fibrous 
fracture,  the  bast-bundles  adhering  in  bands.  When  broken,  the  bark  has  a narcotic 
odor,  resembling  that  of  opium  ; the  taste  is  at  first  slight,  afterward  bitter  and  acrid. 

Constituents. — The  active  principle,  according  to  E.  Hart  (1883),  is  a neutral  com- 
pound. piscidin,  C29H2408,  which  may  be  obtained  from  the  concentrated  tincture  by  treat- 
ing it  with  lime,  filtering,  adding  a little  water,  and  crystallizing ; after  recrystallization 
from  alcohol  it  forms  colorless  prisms,  which  melt  at  192°  C.  (377.6°  F.),  are  insoluble 
in  water,  slightly  soluble  in  ether  and  in  cold  alcohol,  and  easily  soluble  in  benzene  and 
chloroform.  It  is  not  a glucoside.  The  other  constituents  have  not  been  investigated. 
Resinous  and  oily  compounds  are  present,  and  crystals  of  calcium  oxalate  are  observed 
in  the  tissue. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Extractum  piscidia:  fluidum,  Fluid  extract  of  piscidia, 
may  be  prepared  in  the  same  manner  as  fluid  extract  of  serpentaria,  using  a menstruum 
composed  of  3 parts  of  alcohol  and  1 part  of  water. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  bark  of  Piscidia  erytlirina  was  first  known  in  Europe 
as  having  been  used  in  the  West  Indies  to  catch  fish  by  benumbing  them  (Wibmer, 
Wirkung  d.  Arzneimittel,  iv.  222).  Many  years  ago  (1844),  in  England,  Dr.  Hamilton 
took  a drachm  of  the  tincture  of  this  bark  while  suffering  from  a severe  toothache.  It 
caused  a burning  sensation  in  the  stomach  and  copious  perspiration,  followed  by  deep 
sleep.  He  also  applied  it  with  success  to  aching  carious  teeth  (Jour.  Phil.  Coll.  Phar., 
v.  159).  It  appears  to  have  been  lost  sight  of  until  1880,  when  it  was  stated  to  be  a 
powerful  anodyne,  relaxing  the  system,  producing  salivation  and  sweating,  and  affording 
marked  relief  in  neuralgia  of  the  face  (Phil.  Med.  Times . xi.  57).  In  1881  the  experi- 
ments of  Dr.  Isaac  Ott  led  him  to  conclude  that  piscidia  contains  a narcotic  principle 


1252 


FIX  BURGUNDICA. 


which  does  not  affect  the  motor  nerves,  but  acts  on  the  sensory  ganglia  of  the  spinal 
cord,  producing  convulsions,  partly  by  stimulating  the  cord  and  partly  by  heightening 
the  excitability  of  the  muscles.  He  also  found  that  it  reduced  the  frequency  of  the 
pulse  by  a direct  action  upon  the  heart,  first  increasing  and  then  diminishing  the  arterial 
tension,  and  that  it  first  contracts  and  then  dilates  the  pupils  ( Medical  News,  etc.,  xxxix. 
212).  Ott  also  concluded  it  to  be  a sialagogue  and  diaphoretic,  slowing  the  pulse  but 
increasing  the  arterial  tension,  and  that  it  is  distinctly  hypnotic.  The  last-named  action 
is  generally  admitted,  but  some  hold  that  it  produces  sleep  only  by  annulling  the  pain 
which  maintains  wakefulness.  Seifert  used  an  extract  of  piscidia  which,  when  given 
in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.20-0.40  (gr.  iv-viij)  to  relatively  healthy  persons,  caused  sound 
sleep,  after  which  some  lightness  of  the  head  was  felt,  as  after  a dose  of  morphine ; but 
it  did  not  affect  the  pulse  or  temperature.  In  two  cases  of  phthisis  in  which  morphine 
had  ceased  to  allay  the  cough  this  medicine  palliated  it,  and  in  others  in  which  no  mor- 
phine had  been  used  it  acted  in  a similar  manner,  but  in  one  instance  it  occasioned  sweats 
which  were  checked  by  atropine.  In  several  other  affections  its  utility  was  less  evident 
( Centralhl . f.  d.  ges.  Tlierapie , i.  427).  Some  reporters  have  discredited  their  statements 
by  declaring  that  its  hypnotic  and  analgesic  effects  are  nearly  equal  to  those  of  opium. 

In  trials  made  by  Berger  the  results  were  entirely  negative  (ibid.,  ii.  121).  Piscidia  has 
had  the  credit  of  curing  neuralgia , and  there  is  little  doubt  of  its  having  in  numerous 
instances  palliated  that  affection,  as  well  as  nervous  headache , hysterical  delirium , chorea , 
and  acute  (muscular)  rheumatism.  It  is  also  said  to  allay  irregularity  of  the  heart  due 
to  organic  disease.  One  or  more  fluidrachms  (Gm.  4)  may  be  given  of  the  fluid  extract, 
but  efficient  doses  of  it  frequently  produce  nausea.  This  preparation  has  been  used 
topically  to  allay  the  pain  of  burns. 

PIX  BURGUNDICA,  U.  S.,  Br.— Burgundy  Pitch. 

Poix  de  Bourgogne,  P.  des  Vosges,  P.  jaune,  F.  Cod. ; Burgunder  Harz  ( Pech ),  G. ; . 

Pez  de  Borgona,  P.  amarilla , Sp. 

The  prepared  resinous  exudation  from  the  spruce  fir,  Abies  (Pinus,  Lamarck,  Picea, 
Link)  excelsa,  Poiret , s.  Pinus  Abies,  Linne,  s.  Pinus  Picea,  Du  Hoi.  Woodv.,  Med.  Bot.,  i 
pi.  208  ; Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  261. 

Nat.  Ord. — Coniferae. 

Origin. — The  spruce  fir,  or  Norway  spruce  fir,  is  a stately  tree  growing  in  Northern 
Asia  and  Northern  Europe,  and  in  the  latter  continent  southward  in  mountainous  regions 
to  the  Pyrenees  and  Alps ; it  is  frequently  cultivated  in  the  United  States.  It  has 
spreading,  nearly  horizontal  branches,  pendulous  ‘branchlets,  scattered,  somewhat  four- 
angled leaves,  about  19  Mm.  (f  inch)  long,  and  pendulous,  light-brown,  nearly  cylindrical  \ 
cones,  which  are  from  15-17  Cm.  (6  to  7 inches)  in  length.  The  Siberian  variety,  Picea  j 
(Pinus,  Antoine)  obovata,  Ledebour,  differs  mainly  in  having  smaller  and  more  slender 
ovate  cones. 

Collection. — The  oleo-resinous  exudation  of  the  spruce  fir,  which  flows  from  incis- 
ions, is  collected  in  Finland,  South-western  Germany,  Austria,  and  Switzerland,  and  is 
melted  in  water  and  strained  ; but  the  manufacture  is  on  the  decline,  at  least  in  Germany. 
That  collected  in  some  districts  of  the  Bernese  Jura  is  known  in  commerce  poix  blanche 
( Pharmacographia) . 

Description. — Burgundy  pitch  is  thus  described  by  the  British  Pharmacopoeia : 
“Hard  and  brittle,  yet  gradually  taking  the  form  of  the  vessel  in  which  it  is  kept; 
opaque,  varying  in  color,  but  generally  dull  reddish-brown  ; of  a peculiar,  somewhat 
empyreumatic  perfumed  odor  and  aromatic  taste,  without  bitterness  ; free  from  vesicles: 
gives  off  no  water  when  heated.”  The  following  additional  characters  of  true  Burgundy 
pitch  were  ascertained  by  Hanbury  (1867):  “Fracture  shining,  conchoidal,  translucent; 
some  samples  contain  much  water  and  are  opaque  and  of  a dull-gray  color,  and  require 
straining  to  free  them  from  impurities  ; not  wholly  soluble  in  alcohol  of  0.838,  but  leaves 
a small  amount  of  white  flocculent  matter  ; placed  in  contact  with  double  its  weight  of 
glacial  acetic  acid  in  a vial,  it  is  dissolved,  with  the  exception  of  a small  amount  of  floccu- 
lent matter.”  The  description  of  the  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia  agrees  with  the  above. 

Constituents. — Burgundy  pitch  contains  volatile  oil,  which  is  most  likely  isomeric 
with  oil  of  turpentine,  and  resin,  which  probably  consists  mainly  of  Maly’s  abietic  acid. 
(See  Terebinthina.) 

Adulterations  and  Substitutions. — The  German  Pharmacopoeia  has  very 
properly  dismissed  Burgundy  pitch  ; that  of  1872  recognized  the  product  of  various  spe- 


PIX  CANADENSIS. 


1253 


cies  of  Abies,  which  were  not  enumerated,  under  the  designations  Resina  pint,  Resina 
pint  burgundica , and  Pix  alba  ( Poix  blanche ),  and  gave  the  following  description  : “ It 
is  a yellow  or  yellowish-brown,  opaque,  or  diaphanous,  fragile  resin,  having  a glossy 
fracture,  becoming  soft  when  held  in  the  hand,  of  a terebin  thin  ate  odor,  and  almost  com- 
pletely soluble  in  alcohol.’’ 

The  substance  commonly  sold  in  England  is  made  by  melting  together  colophony  with 
palm  oil  or  some  other  fat,  water  being  stirred  in  to  render  the  mixture  opaque  ( Phar - 
macographia).  Hanbury  described  artificial  Burgundy  pitch  as  varying  in  color  between 
tawny-yellow,  orange-yellow,  and  orange-brown.  The  fracture  is  wax-like  or  shining  or 
conchoidal,  always  opaque,  but  becoming  gradually  transparent  on  the  surface  by  the 
loss  of  water  ; the  odor  is  weak,  terebinthinous,  and  hardly  aromatic ; it  is  less  soluble 
in  alcohol  of  0.838,  and  with  glacial  acetic  acid  forms  a turbid  mixture  which  separates 
into  two  layers — a thick  oily  liquid  above  and  a bright  solution  below. 

Derivatives. — Retinol  (resinol).  A product  of  the  destructive  distillation  of  Burgundy  pitch  ; 
it  was  obtained  as  far  back  as  1838,  and  was  known  as  resin  oil.  It  is  a yellowish  oily  liquid 
which  boils  at  temperatures  above  280°  C.  (536°  F.).  It  is  a good  antiseptic  and  not  irritating, 
but  is  insoluble  in  water.  Retinol  is  a useful  solvent  for  iodol,  aristol,  cocaine,  carbolic  acid, 
phosphorus,  and  many  alkaloids.  The  solution  of  phosphorus  is  very  stable,  and  has  been  rec- 
ommended for  external  and  internal  use. 

Action  and  Uses. — Applied  to  the  skin  as  a plaster,  it  produces  itching,  redness, 
and  a papular  eruption,  and  upon  a delicate  integument  may  occasion  a vesicular,  and 
even  a pustular,  eruption,  with  superficial  ulcers.  This  eruption  has  been  attributed  to 
the  retention  by  the  impermeable  plaster  of  the  cutaneous  secretions,  but  the  better 
opinion  is  that  it  depends  upon  the  inherent  properties  of  the  resin. 

In  the  form  of  plaster  Burgundy  pitch  is  in  general  use  to  protect,  sustain,  or  stimu- 
late the  part  to  which  it  is  applied.  In  most  cases  these  several  objects  are  attained 
together.  Thus,  in  the  popular  use  of  it  as  a remedy  for  lumbago  particularly,  but  of 
other  forms  also  of  muscular  rheumatism , it  supports  the  part  mechanically,  protects  it 
from  external  impressions,  and  stimulates  it  to  the  production  of  perspiration,  or  even 
to  the  formation  of  an  eruption,  as  already  mentioned.  In  the  latter  way  it  acts 
revulsively  upon  the  deeper-seated  parts,  and  is  habitually  used  to  relieve  internal  con- 
gestions and  diminish  secretions,  as  in  chronic  bronchitis  and  chronic  pulmonary  tubercu- 
losis. In  chronic  and  in  subacute  pleurisy  its  counter-irritant  action  is  resorted  to  for 
promoting  absorption  of  the  effusion.  In  these  several  affections  it  also,  if  applied  in  a 
plaster  of  proper  dimensions,  gives  to  the  chest  a greatly-needed  mechanical  support 
during  the  act  of  coughing.  Some  obstinate  cases  of  sciatica  have  been  cured  by  envel- 
oping the  buttock  and  thigh  in  a Burgundy  pitch  plaster,  and  leaving  it  permanently  in 
place.  In  like  manner  this  plaster  has  been  used  to  relieve  chronic  diarrhoea  following 
dysentery,  etc.,  but  this  cannot  conveniently  be  done  when  the  abdomen  is  prominent  or 
flaccid. 

Before  applying  a plaster  of  this  sort  to  a hairy  skin  the  hair  should  be  shaved  off,  and 
in  removing  the  plaster  from  such  a part  it  should  first  be  softened  by  passing  lightly  over 
its  free  surface  a bottle  of  hot  water  or  a warm  flat-iron.  The  portion  of  pitch  which 
still  adheres  may  be  partially  removed  by  pressing  upon  it  a linen  or  muslin  rag,  to  which 
the  adhesive  material  will  cling  rather  than  to  the  skin  itself,  and  the  remainder  may  be 
washed  off  with  warm  alcohol. 

Retinol  has  been  for  some  years,  in  ,the  treatment  of  gonorrhoea , given  in  capsules 
containing  Gm.  0.50  (gr.  viij),  and  also  applied  on  tampons  with  borax  and  other  sub- 
stances in  the  treatment  of  vaginitis.  More  recently  a solution  of  5-10  per  cent,  of 
i salol  in  retinol  has  been  injected  into  the  bladder  in  subacute  cystitis.  It  is  also  used  as 
a vehicle  for  applying  aristol,  cocaine,  carbolic  acid,  etc. 

PIX  CANADENSIS.— Canada  Pitch. 

Hemlock  pitch , E. ; Poix  de  Canada.  Fr. ; Canadisches  Pech.  G. ; Pez  de  Canada , Sp. 

I The  prepared  resinous  exudation  from  Abies  (Pinus,  Linne , Picea,  Link , Tsuga, 
Carnlre ) canadensis,  Michaux.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 264. 

Nat.  Ord. — Coniferae. 

t Origin. — The  hemlock  spruce  is  a common  forest  tree  of  Canada  and  the  Northern 
Lnited  States,  but  is  more  rare  farther  south,  where  it  grows  principally  in  the  Alle- 
ghanies.  It  attains  a height  of  18—24  M.  (60  or  80  feet),  has  horizontal  branches,  the 
j young  ones  drooping;  has  flat,  obtuse,  somewhat  denticulate,  and  on  the  lower  surface 


1254 


FIX  LIQUID  A. 


glaucous,  leaves,  and  elliptic-ovate  cones  about  25  Mm.  (1  inch)  in  length.  The  wood  is 
light,  coarse-grained,  and  less  valuable  for  boards  than  that  of  other  pines.  The  bark  is 
very  astringent,  and  by  treatment  with  water  furnishes  an  extract  rich  in  tannin,  and  is 
largely  employed  in  tanning  under  the  name  of  extract  of  hemlock-bark.  By  distilling 
the  branches  with  water  a volatile  oil  is  obtained,  which  is  sold  as  oil  of  spruce  or  oil  of 
hemlock  ; 8 pounds  of  the  boughs  yield  about  1 ounce  of  oil  (Stearns,  1858). 

Collection. — According  to  Stearns,  there  are  two  methods  of  collecting  Canada 
pitch,  one  of  which  consists  in  cutting  cup-like  incisions  into  the  living  tree  and  removing 
the  soft  oleoresin  as  it  exudes ; the  other  and  most  common  one  is  to  remove  the  wood 
and  bark  around  the  knobs  or  knots  of  the  felled  trees,  which  are  rich  in  resin  ; these 
being  placed  in  water  in  a large  kettle,  the  resin  is  boiled  out,  and  rising  upon  the  top  is 
skimmed  off,  and  further  purified  by  remelting  and  straining. 

Description. — Canada  pitch  is  found  in  the  market  in  opaque  reddish-brown  masses, 
which  gradually  become  translucent  on  the  surface.  It  is  brittle  at  the  ordinary  tempera- 
ture, but  usually  takes  the  form  of  the  vessel  in  which  it  is  kept ; it  is  of  a somewhat 
lighter  color  internally,  breaks  with  a shallow  conchoidal  and  glossy  fracture,  is  softened 
by  the  heat  of  the  hand,  and  has  a weak  somewhat  terebinthinate  odor. 

Constituents. — It  is  composed  of  one  or  more  resins  and  of  a minute  quantity  of 
volatile  oil,  which  have  not  yet  been  examined. 

Adulteration. — Stearns  states  that  Canada  pitch  is  often  adulterated  by  the  col- 
lectors with  common  rosin  to  the  extent  of  70  per  cent.  Such  an  addition  must  render 
it  harder  and  less  fusible,  but  no  test  is  known  by  which  to  determine  the  sophistication. 

Action  and  Uses. — Canada  pitch  is  almost  identical  with  Burgundy  pitch  in  its 
action  and  uses,  but  owing  to  its  greater  softness  is  less  convenient  for  making  plasters. 

Its  volatile  oil,  known  as  oil  of  spruce  and  oil  of  hemlock,  is  said  to  have  been  employed 
to  produce  abortion.  There  is  no  reason  for  attributing  to  it  a specific  action  on  the 
uterine  system. 

PIX  LIQUIDA,  U.  S.,  Br B.  G.— Tar. 

Resina  empyreumatica  liquida. — Goudron  vegetal , Fr.  Cod.  ; Theer , G.  ; Alquitran , Sp. 

An  empyreumatic  oleoresin  obtained  by  destructive  distillation  from  the  wood  of  Pinus 
palustris,  Miller , and  of  other  species  of  Pinus.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 258. 

Nat.  Ord. — Coniferae. 

Origin. — The  principal  species  used  for  the  production  of  tar  are  Pinus  palustris, 
Miller , P.  Tasda,  Linne , P.  rigida,  Miller , which  grow  in  North  America,  and  P.  sylvestris,  t 
Linne , and  Larix  sibirica,  Ledebour,  indigenous  to  Northern  Europe.  (See  Terebin- 
thina.)  Sufficient  tar  is  produced  in  the  United  States  to  supply  the  domestic  market  l 

and  leave  a portion  for  exportation.  60,393  barrels  of  tar  and  pitch  were  exported  in  i 

1882.  . . I 

Preparation. — Pine  wood  which  is  unfit  for  use  as  timber  is  usually  employed.  It 
is  cut  into  billets  of  suitable  size,  which  are  arranged  into  large  conical  stacks,  or,  as  is 
sometimes  the  case  in  Europe,  are  closely  packed  in  clay  furnaces  of  a similar  shape. 
The  stacks  or  piles  are  covered  with  a layer  of  earth  and  ignited  above,  and  the  draft  is 
regulated  so  as  to  sustain  a slow  combustion  without  flame.  The  tarry  products,  as  they 
are  formed,  gradually  descend  and  collect  in  a cavity  or  ditch  at  the  base  of  the  pile, 
from  which  they  are  transferred  into  barrels.  The  process  is  one  of  destructive  distilla- 
tion, in  which,  however,  the  pyroligneous  acid  and  volatile  oil  of  the  wood  are  lost. 
These  products  may  likewise  be  saved  by  the  use  of  furnaces  or  stills,  in  which  the  dis- 
tillation may  be  carried  on  in  the  same  manner  as  in  the  stacks;  but  the  charcoal  obtained 

is  said  to  be  inferior  to  that  made  in  the  ordinary  way.  The  tar  obtained  by  slow  com- 

bustion as  described  above  is  largely  employed  in  the  arts  for  various  purposes,  for  some 
of  which  the  tar  resulting  in  the  prepararion  of  pyroligneous  acid  cannot  be  substituted. 

Description. — Tar  is  a thick,  viscid,  semi-fluid  mass,  heavier  than  water,  of  a deep 
blackish-brown  color,  transparent  in  thin  layers  if  free  from  water,  and  has  an  unpleasant 
empyreumatic  odor  and  a sharp  and  bitter  taste.  On  standing,  it  usually  separates  a 
granular  crystalline  matter  consisting  of  pyrocatechin  (catechol),  and  often  assumes  the 
consistence' of  thick  honey.  It  has  an  acid  reaction,  which,  together  with  a light-brown 
color  and  sharp  bitterish  taste,  is  imparted  to  water  agitated  with  it.  On  the  application 
of  heat,  water  and  acetic  acid  distil  over,  together  with  a yellow  volatile  oil  (see  p.  18). 

Tar  is  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  chloroform,  fixed  and  volatile  oils,  and  caustic  alka- 
lies. The  aqueous  infusion  of  tar  is  colored  transiently  green  by  ferric  chloride,  due 


PIX  LIQUID  A. 


1255 


to  the  presence  of  pyrocatechin,  and  with  lime-water  acquires  permanently  a brown-red 

color. 

Constituents. — Tar  is  of  a very  complex  composition,  which  varies  with  the  kind 
of  wood,  the  amount  of  resins  present  therein,  and  the  care  with  which  it  has  been  pre- 
pared. It  contains  acetic  acid , acetone  (page  11),  muthylic  alcohol  (page  157),  mesit , 
C6H1202j  toluene,  C7H \, xylene,  C8H10,  cumene , C9H12,  methene,  C9H12 ; likewise  phenol,  C6H60 
(see  p.  37),  cresol,  C7H80  (see  p.  40),  creosote  (see  p.  547),  paraffin , naphtalene  (page 
1071),  pyrene,  C16H10,  chrysene,  C18H12,  retene,  C18H18,  and  others.  Of  the  compounds 
mentioned,  the  first  series  up  to  methene  pass  over  with  the  light  tar  oil,  which  also  con- 
tains Reichenbach’s  eupion , a very  light  oily  product  of  low  boiling-point.  The  heavy  tar 
oil  contains  the  other  compounds  named,  and  in  addition  cedriret , kapnomor , picamar , and 
pittakal , which  names  were  introduced  by  Reichenbach  to  designate  various  substances 
not  yet  obtained  in  a pure  state.  After  distilling  from  tar  the  light  and  most  of  the 
heavy  oil  a substance  is  left  behind  which  is  still  recognized  in  some  pharmacopoeias  as 

PlX  NAVALIS,  s.  Pix  nigra,  s.  solida,  s.  Resina  pina  empyreumatica. — Pitch,  Black 
pitch,  E.  ; Poix  noire,  Fr.  Cod. ; Schwarzes  Pech,  Schiffspech,  G.  ; Pez  negra,  JSp. — It 
is  a black,  resinous,  brittle  mass,  which  becomes  soft  when  held  in  the  hand,  and  has  the 
odor  of  tar. 

Allied  Drug. — Pix  betula,  s.  betulinum,  Oleum  betulas  empyreumaticum,  Oleum  rusci. — 
Birch  tar,  E. ; Iluile  russe,  Iluile  de  bouleau,  Fr. ; Birkentheer,  Birkenol,  G. — It  is  prepared  in 
Russia  from  the  wrood  and  bark  of  Betula  alba,  Linne,  and  is  also  known  in  commerce  under  the 
name  of  dagget  or  degutt.  It  resembles  wrood-tar  in  appearance,  but  remains  liquid  and  has  a 
peculiar  penetrating  odor,  like  that  of  Russia  leather,  in  the  manufacture  of  which  it  is  used.  It 
was  partly  examined  by  Sobrero  (1842),  who  obtained  from  it  a yellowish  volatile  oil,  C10II,6,  of 
an  agreeable  odor,  like  that  of  birch-bark,  and  boiling  at  156°  C.  (312.8°  F.).  (See  also  page  338.) 

Pharmaceutical  Products. — Saccharated  Tar,  tar  purified  by  dissolving  in  warm  alcohol, 
straining,  and  evaporating,  4 parts,  sugar  96  parts;  mix  (Roussin.  1871). 

Aqua  picis,  s.  picea,  F.  G. ; Infusum  picis  liquida,  II.  S.  1870. — Tar-water,  Infusion  of  tar, 
E. ; Eau  de  goudron,  Fr.;  Theerwasser,  G. — Mix  well  tar  1 part  with  powdered  pumice-stone  3 
parts,  and  agitate  the  mixture,  which  may  be  kept  on  hand,  for  5 minutes  with  water  10  parts. 
Tar-water  is  to  be  made  fresh  when  wanted. — P.  G. 

Prepared  in  this  manner,  the  water  is  enabled  to  exert  its  solvent  action  upon  all  the  constitu- 
ents of  tar.  Magnesia  is  unsuited  for  dividing  the  tar,  owing  to  the  formation  of  soluble  salts. 
Magnes-Lahens  (1876)  pulverized  the  tar  by  mixing  it  with  twice  its  weight  of  inert  sawdust; 
27  Gm.  of  this  mixture  will  give  with  1 liter  of  water  a saturated  solution  containing  6 Gm.  of 
extract.  The  large  quantity  of  resinous  and  oily  principles  present  in  tar  interferes  with  the 
solvent  action  of  water;  hence  an  excess  of  tar  must  be  used,  the  first  infusion  being  strongly 
acid,  and,  according  to  the  French  Codex,  is  rejected.  Lefort  (1868)  determined  the  amount 
taken  up  by  hot  water  to  be  2 Gm.  to  the  liter. 

Glyceritum  picis  liquida,  U.  S.  1870. — Glycerite  (glycerol)  of  tar,  E.;  Glycerole  de  goudron, 
Fr. ; Theerglycerit,  G. — Triturate  tar  1 troyounce  with  magnesium  carbonate  2 troyounces;  after- 
ward with  portions  of  a mixture  composed  of  glycerin  4 fluidounces,  alcohol  2 fluidounces,  and 
water  10  fluidounces;  express  the  liquid,  put  the  residue  into  a percolator,  and  displace  first  with 
the  expressed  liquid,  and  afterward  with  water,  until  18  fluidounces  of  percolate  are  obtained. 
This  is  essentially  the  formula  proposed  by  J.  B.  Moore  in  1869.  The  glycerite  is  of  a rich  red- 
dish-brown color,  and  perfectly  transparent  when  recently  prepared,  but  gradually  deposits  blackish 
resinous  matter,  which  should  be  filtered  off. 

Tinctura  picis  betula,' Tinctura  rusci,  Tincture  of  birch-tar.  Dissolve  birch-tar  1 part  in 
alcohol  10  parts,  and  filter. 

Action  and  Uses. — Anciently,  tar  was  used  as  a dressing  for  wounds  and  sores 
and  various  cutaneous  eruptions  in  man  and  beast,  and  was  administered  internally  as  a 
remedy  for  chronic  pulmonary  complaints.  These  are  the  affections  for  which  even  now 
it  is  principally  employed.  Tar-water  is  prepared  by  stirring  1 part  of  tar  with  10  parts 
of  pure  water,  and  allowing  them  to  stand  for  several  days,  and  then  decanting  the  im- 
pregnated water.  It  has  been  used  with  the  greatest  advantage  in  chronic  bronchitis  and 
in  many  cases  of  pulmonary  phthisis,  lessening  the  expectoration,  diminishing  the  oppres- 
sion and  pain  in  the  chest,  and  soothing  the  cough,  without  increasing  the  thirst  or  im- 
pairing the  digestion.  It  has  even  been  proposed  against  pulmonary  haemorrhage.  But 
when  hectic  symptoms  are  prominent  it  is  seldom  tolerated.  This  is  true  even  of  the 
treatment  of  these  diseases  by  the  inhalation  of  tar  vapors,  which  in  the  more  torpid 
cases  is  sometimes  remarkably  beneficial.  The  best  mode  of  using  tar  vapors  is  the  fol- 
lowing : In  a cup  placed  in  a small  water-bath  over  a common  night-lamp  mix  some  tar 
with  about  a twenty-fourth  part  of  its  weight  of  potassium  carbonate,  in  order  to 
neutralize  the  pyroligneous  acid  which  may  be  present  and  which  would  irritate  the 
lungs.  The  vapors  should  be  extricated  very  slowly  at  first,  so  as  moderately  to  charge 


1256 


PL  ANT  AGO. 


with  them  the  air  of  the  chamber  which  the  patient  chiefly  inhabits,  and  afterward  they 
may  be  generated  more  freely.  Quite  as  beneficial,  and  more  convenient  and  agreeable, 
is  the  inhalation  of  tar-water,  and  even  of  wine  of  tar,  from  a steam  atomizer.  Still 
more  beneficial  than  the  preparations  of  tar  in  pulmonary  diseases  is  the  habitual  breath- 
ing of  the  air  of  pine  forests,  especially  if  conjoined  with  a proper  hygienic  and  dietetic 
regimen. 

Of  other  internal  uses  of  tar  may  be  mentioned  that  of  tar  pills  for  the  relief  of  con- 
stipation, the  use  of  tar-water  by  the  mouth  and  by  injection  in  chronic  vesical  catarrh , 
gleet , leucorrhoea , etc. 

The  ancient  use  of  tar  in  the  treatment  of  scabies  is  sometimes  still  resorted  to,  but 
it  is  less  certain  than  other  methods  of  curing  the  disease,  and  it  involves  the  ruin  of 
the  patient’s  body-  and  bed-linen.  In  scaly  eruptions  its  efficacy  is  much  more  unequiv- 
ocal, but  the  same  objection  to  it  exists  as  in  the  case  of  the  disease  just  mentioned. 
Moreover,  lepra  and  psoriasis  generally  get  well  under  the  use  of  arsenic  alone.  If  this 
falls  short  of  its  purpose,  tar  may  be  employed  in  addition.  For  its  efficient  use  it  is 
necessary  that  the  scales  upon  the  skin  should  first  be  removed  by  a warm  bath ; after 
which  tar  or  its  ointment  should  in  small  quantity  be  rubbed  into  the  patches  of  the  erup- 
tion with  a brush,  and  the  patient  rolled  in  a blanket  and  allowed  to  remain  quiet  for  five 
or  six  hours,  when  the  excess  of  the  application  can  be  removed  with  cloths  and  the 
ordinary  clothing  resumed.  In  some  cases  of  inveterate  eczema , when  the  skin  has 
become  dry,  rough,  and  thick,  tar  ointment  or  oil  of  tar  is  a most  efficient  remedy,  pro- 
vided that  its  strength  be  duly  proportioned  to  the  sensibility  of  the  skin.  It  is  also 
useful  in  herpes  circinatus  and  in  prurigo. 

Tar  has  long  been  employed  by  the  vulgar  for  excoriations,  boils , scorbutic  sores , and 
unhealthy  ulcers  generally.  More  recently  it  was  extensively  used  in  the  form  of  oakum  as 
a dressing  for  such  lesions,  especially  in  hospitals.  It  seems  especially  adapted  to  burns 
which  suppurate  copiously.  It  corrects  the  fetor  of  the  sores.  The  oakum  is  applied 
after  being  moistened  with  water,  and  is  covered  with  an  impermeable  tissue.  Tar  and 
tar-water  have  been  applied  to  mercurial  ulcers  of  the  mouth  and  throat,  and  the  former 
is  an  excellent  application  to  fissured  nipples  and  haemorrhoids.  Finally,  the  fumes  of  tar 
are  commonly  used  to  deodorize  and  purify  vessels,  rooms,  etc.,  tainted  with  foul  smells  or 
supposed  to  be  infected  with  morbid  poisons.  They  have  also  been  employed  advantage- 
ously in  the  treatment  of  senile  gangrene  (Post,  Trans.  New  York  State  Med.  Soc.,  1877, 
p.  246). 

Tar  may  be  given  mixed  with  milk  or  beer,  or  else  in  pills.  Gm.  2-16  (gr.  xxx-gss) 
may  be  taken  daily.  The  glycerite  of  tar  is  a convenient  form  of  the  medicine.  Tar- 
water  may  be  taken  to  the  extent  of  a pint  or  two  daily. 

PL  ANT  AGO . — Plantain  . 

Rib-grass,  Ribwort , Ripple-grass , E. ; Plantain , Fr.  Cod. ; Wegerich,  Gr. ; Lauten , Sp. 

Plantago  lanceolata , Linne,  and  PI.  major , Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Plantaginaceae. 

Description. — These  are  acaulescent  perennials,  with  short  oblique  rhizomes.  The 
first-named  species  has  lanceolate,  obscurely  toothed,  more  or  less  hairy  and  about  five- 
ribbed  leaves,  and  a deeply-furrowed  scape  bearing  a dense  ovate  spike.  The  second  spe- 
cies has  broadly  ovate  or  elliptic,  somewhat  toothed,  about  seven-ribbed,  nearly  smooth, 
petiolate  leaves  and  a terete  scape,  bearing  a cylindrical  elongated  spike.  The  flowers  are 
small,  have  a dry  membranaceous  four-lobed  corolla  with  four  stamens,  and  produce  small 
capsules  containing  two,  or  in  the  second  species  about  ten,  peltate  brown  seeds.  The 
plants  are  indigenous  to  Europe,  but  now  grow  along  roadsides  and  in  fields  in  most 
temperate  countries.  They  are  inodorous  and  have  a somewhat  astringent,  saline,  and 
bitterish  taste. 

Constituents. — The  analyses  by  Sprengel,  Roller,  Bley,  and  Schlesinger  showed  the 
presence  of  a bitter  principle,  albumen,  sugar,  resin,  and  various  salts.  Bunge  (1828) 
stated  that,  in  common  with  various  Umbelliferae  and  Compositae,  they  contain  viridinic 
acid,  which  forms  with  ammonia  a yellow  compound,  turning  green  on  exposure  to  air ; it 
belongs  doubtless  to  the  tannins. 

Allied  Plants. — Plantago  virginica,  Linnt,  White  plantain.  It  is  common  in  sandy  fields 
of  the  United  States,  has  leaves  radical,  white-pubescent,  obovate  or  spatulate,  and  a dense  cylin- 
drical spike,  and  agrees  with  the  preceding  ones  in  taste.  . I 

Plantago  Rugelii,  Decaine,  agrees  with  the  broad-leaved  plantain,  but  has  an  elongated  spike. 


PLATINUM. 


1257 


Plantago  Psyllium,  Limit , is  an  annual  indigenous  to  the  basin  of  the  Mediterranean.  The 
seeds  are  employed  and  are  known  as  Fleaseed,  E. ; Graines  de  puces,  Fr. ; Flohsamen,  G.  They 
are  boat-shaped,  dark  red-brown,  and  glossy  upon  the  convex  back,  with  a lighter-colored  line, 
the  hilum  located  in  a broad  groove  upon  the  lower  side.  The  seeds  of  Plantago  arenaria,  Wald- 
stein  et  Kittaibel , are  somewhat  smaller,  black  and  less  glossy  ; those  of  Plantago  Cynops,  Limit, 
are  somewhat  larger  and  lighter  brown.  The  epithelial  layer  of  these  seeds  yields  much  muci- 
lage ; this  is  also  obtained  from 

*Spogel-seeds,  known  in  India  as  ispaghul.  They  are  pinkish-gray,  and  on  the  convex  side 
marked  with  a brown-yellow  spot.  They  are  obtained  from  Plantago  Ispaghula,  Roxburgh , 
which  is  regarded  as  a cultivated  variety  of  PI.  decumbens,  Forskal , indigenous  to  Northern 
Africa.  (See  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  211.)  The  seeds  of  several  other  species  are 
likewise  mucilaginous. 

Action  and  Uses. — Several  species  of  plantain  appear  to  have  enjoyed  the  un- 
deserved reputation  of  being  remedies  for  divers  diseases,  including  malignant  ulcers, 
defluxions  and  mortifications,  haemorrhages,  intermittent  fever,  etc.  They  owe  whatever 
virtues  they  possess  to  their  bitter  and  astringent  constituents.  In  Europe  they  are  still 
used  for  the  same  purposes  as  of  old,  and  their  fresh  leaves  are  applied  to  wounds  and 
inflammations  of  the  skin.  Quite  recently  (1883)  Prof.  Quinlan,  observing  a cottager 
arresting  haemorrhage  by  the  application  of  the  chewed  leaves  of  P.  lanceolata,  “ satisfied 
himself  as  to  the  haemostatic  power  of  the  plant  when  applied  to  bleeding  surfaces,  either 
in  the  chewed  form  or  in  that  of  the  dried  leaves”  ( Practitioner , xxx.  49). 

Psyllium  (Plantago  psyllium),  fleawort,  was  anciently  used  in  the  treatment  of  ulcers, 
and  was  reckoned  a cooling  and  astringent  medicine.  In  Asia  and  in  Southern  Europe 
the  mucilage  derived  from  its  seeds  is  used  very  much  as  the  mucilages  of  quince,  flax- 
seed, and  slippery  elm  are  applied  to  palliate  external  and  also  internal  irritations.  It 
has  been  employed  with  advantage  to  relieve  habitual  constipation  by  swallowing  a table- 
spoonful  of  the  seeds  in  half  a tumbler  of  water  before  the  principal  meal.  But  it  soon 
loses  its  original  effect. 

PLATINUM,  — Platinum. 

Platine,  Or  blanc,  Fr. ; Platin,  G. 

Symbol  Pt.  Atomicity  bivalent  and  quadrivalent.  Atomic  weight  194.3. 

Origin  and  Preparation. — This  metal  was  apparently  observed  as  early  as  the 
sixteenth  century,  but  was  more  fully  described  and  investigated  after  the  middle  of  the 
eighteenth  century  by  Watson,  Scheffer,  Lewis,  Bergman,  and  others.  It  is  found  pure 
and  in  combination  with  palladium,  rhodium,  osmium,  iridium,  and  other  metals  in  Cali- 
fornia. in  various  parts  of  South  America,  in  the  Ural  Mountains  and  other  parts  of 
Europe,  and  in  Asia  and  Africa.  It  is  often  met  with  in  auriferous  sand,  and  occasionally 
in  lead,  iron,  and  other  ores.  The  ore  is  treated  with  strong  hydrochloric  acid,  well 
washed  by  elutriation,  the  residue  treated  with  nitromuriatic  acid,  the  acid  solution 
evaporated,  redissolved  in  water,  and  precipitated  with  ammonium  chloride ; on  igniting 
the  resulting  ammonio-platinic  chloride,  platinum  is  obtained  in  a spongy  condition. 

Properties. — Spongy  platinum  is  gray,  soft,  and  porous,  and  fusible  only  by  the  aid 
of  the  oxyhydrogen  blowpipe.  The  metal  is  of  a silver-white  color  and  metallic  lustre, 
is  soft  like  copper,  possesses  considerable  malleability  and  ductility,  and  at  a white  heat 
may  be  forged.  Platinum  resists  the  action  of  most  chemicals  except  mixtures  of  nitric 
with  hydrochloric  or  hydrobromic  acid,  but  at  a high  temperature  it  is  readily  attacked 
by  most  elements.  With  oxygen  it  forms  a monoxide,  PtO,  and  a dioxide,  Pt02,  which 
are  reduced  to  the  metal  at  a red  heat.  The  platinous  salts  are  brown,  red,  or  colorless  ; 
the  platinic  salts  have  a yellow  or  brown  color.  The  following  compounds  have  been 
used  : 

Platini  chloridum. — Platinic  chloride,  E.  ; Perchlorure  de  platine,  Fr. ; Platinchlo- 
rid,  G.  PtCl4.5H20  ; molecular  weight  425.58. — It  is  prepared  by  dissolving  3 parts  of 
platinum  in  a mixture  of  16  parts  of  hydrochloric  and  7 parts  of  nitric  acid,  evaporating 
the  solution  nearly  to  dryness,  redissolving  in  hydrochloric  acid,  heating  to  expel  the  nitric 
acid,  and  evaporating  at  a moderate  heat  to  dryness,  when  a red  crystalline  mass  is  left, 
which  may  be  obtained  from  water  in  handsome  red  crystals  containing  46  per  cent,  of 
platinum.  When  heated  to  100°  C.  these  lose  4H20  = 16.9  per  cent.,  and  turn  brown. 
If  the  salt  is  permitted  to  crystallize  in  the  presence  of  free  hydrochloric  acid,  brownish- 
red  needles  are  obtained  which  have  the  composition  PtCl4.2HC1.6II..O,  and  contain  38 
per  cent,  of  platinum.  This  is  the  compound  usually  met  with  in  commerce.  Heated  to 
above  110°  C.,  it  parts  with  hydrochloric  acid  and  chlorine,  and  near  225°  C.  (437°  F.) 


1258 


PLUMB  I ACETAS. 


dark-brown  platinous  chloride  is  left.  Platinum  chloride  dissolves  readily  in  alcohol  and 
water,  yielding  reddish-yellow  liquids  which  precipitate  the  potassium  and  ammonium 
chlorides. 

Platini  et  sodii  chloridum,  Sodium  platino-chloride,  Sodium  and  platinum  chloride. 
The  double  salt,  2NaCl.PtCl4.6H20,  crystallizes  in  light-red  prisms,  and  is  freely  soluble 
in  water  and  alcohol.  For  medicinal  purposes  a preparation  containing  an  excess  of  the 
sodium  salt  is  used,  made  by  dissolving  3 parts  of  platinic  chloride  and  5 parts  of  sodium 
chloride  in  water,  and  evaporating  to  dryness,  stirring  continually.  It  is  an  orange-yellow 
powder  having  a saline  and  metallic  taste. 

Platini  iodidum,  Platinic  iodide,  Ptl4.  A solution  of  platinic  chloride  is  mixed  with 
a solution  of  an  equivalent  quantity  of  potassium  iodide,  the  deep-red  mixture  nearly 
neutralized  with  potassium  carbonate,  and  digested  for  an  hour.  The  precipitate,  after 
washing  and  drying,  is  a brown-black  amorphous  and  tasteless  powder,  insoluble  in  water, 
but  soluble  in  potassium  carbonate  and  iodide  with  a pale-red  color. 

Platini  et  potassii  cyanidum,  Potassium  platino-cyanide,  2KCN.Pt(CN)2.3II20. 
It  is  best  prepared,  according  to  Meillet,  by  mixing  rather  concentrated  solutions  of  1 
part  exsiccated  platinic  chloride  and  2 parts  potassium  cyanide,  and  heating  the  mixture 
until  the  precipitate  is  redissolved : ammonium  carbonate  and  nitrogen  are  given  off,  and 
on  cooling  the  double  salt  crystallizes.  It  forms  long  needles  and  prisms,  having  in 
different  positions  a yellow  or  bright-blue  color,  and  when  exposed  to  the  air  becoming 
opaque  and  rose-red.  The  salt  is  freely  soluble  in  hot  water,  and  its  solution  precipi- 
tates cupric  salts  greenish-blue,  mercurous  nitrate  bright-blue,  and  ferrous  salts  bluish- 
white. 

Action  and  Uses. — There  is  very  little  to  be  added  to  the  statements  that  were 
made  by  Ilbfer  in  1840  respecting  the  compounds  of  this  metal.  He  found  that  its 
chlorides  were  as  poisonous  as  the  chlorides  of  gold  and  mercury — the  perchloride  in 
1-grain  doses,  the  sodium  chloroplatinate  in  the  dose  of  2 grains.  The  perchloride  in 
strong  solution  reddens  the  skin  and  occasions  a slight  eruption  upon  it.  Internally,  in 
small  doses,  it  irritates  the  stomach,  causes  headache,  and  gradually  modifies  the  blood 
and  the  secretions.  The  sodium  chloroplatinate,  on  the  other  hand,  is  not  a local  irritant, 
and  its  internal  action  is  not  as  distinct  as  that  of  the  perchloride  of  platinum.  Accord- 
ing to  Bryk,  perchloride  of  platinum  applied  to  the  skin  produces  a thick,  yellowish- 
white,  dry  eschar,  surrounded  by  intense  injection  and  even  extravasation. 

According  to  Hofer,  platinum  chloride  is  an  efficient  remedy  for  syphilis,  and  especially 
for  its  inveterate  constitutional  forms,  and  sodium  chloroplatinate  is  more  suitable  in  the 
primary  stages  of  the  disease.  The  former  has  been  described  as  analogous  in  its  effects 
to  the  chlorides  of  gold  and  mercury.  The  dose  of  it  is  stated  to  be  Gm.  0.008-0.03 
(gr.  i-J)  several  times  a day  in  mucilage  or  pill.  A solution  of  Gm.  2 in  Gm.  250 
(gr.  xxx  in  f^viij)  of  water  has  been  used  as  an  injection  in  leucorrhaa  and  gleet , and  a 
liniment  containing  Gm.  0.12  to  Gm.  32  (gr.  ij  in  §j)  of  olive  oil  or  lard  has  been  applied 
to  indolent  ulcers. 


PLUMBI  ACETAS,  U.  S.,  Br.— Lead  Acetate, 

Plumbum  aceticum , P.  G.  ; Acetas  plumbicus,  Saccharum  saturni. — Sugar  of  lead \ E. ; 
Acetate  de plornb,  (Sucre')  de  saturne , Fr.  ; Essigsaures  Bleioxyd , Bleizucher , G. 

Formula  Pb(C2Ha02)23  H20.  Molecular  weight  378. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Lead  Oxide,  in  fine  powder,  24  ounces ; Acetic  Acid  2 
pints  or  a sufficiency ; Distilled  Water  1 pint.  Mix  the  acetic  acid  and  the  water,  add 
the  lead  oxide,  and  dissolve  with  the  aid  of  a gentle  heat.  Filter,  evaporate  till  a pellicle 
forms,  and  set  aside  to  crystallize,  first  adding  a little  acetic  acid  should  the  fluid  not 
have  a distinctly  acid  reaction.  Drain,  and  dry  the  crystals  on  filtering-paper  without 
heat. — Br. 

The  process  described  is  frequently  followed  on  a large  scale.  Sometimes,  however, 
metallic  lead  is  dissolved  in  acetic  acid,  which  requires  to  be  done  in  the  presence  of  air, 
since  the  metal  is  unable  to  displace  the  hydrogen  of  the  acid.  Plates  of  lead  are  placed 
endwise  in  open  vessels  containing  acetic  acid,  one-half  of  their  length  projecting  above 
the  liquid,  and  as  fast  as  the  metal  under  these  conditions  is  oxidized  by  the  oxygen  of 
the  air,  it  is  dissolved,  so  that  the  formation  of  the  salt  in  both  cases  is  the  result  of  the 
action  between  plumbic  oxide  and  acetic  acid,  water  being  formed  at  the  same  time ; 
PbO  -f-  2G2H402  yields  Pb(C2H302)2  + H20.  To  obtain  handsome  and  well-defined  crys- 
tals the  solution  must  have  a very  distinct  acid  reaction  ; if  it  is  permitted  to  become 


PLUMB  I ACETAS. 


1259 


neutral  or  faintly  acid,  a portion  of  the  salt  forms  small  granular  crystals  agglomerated 
into  soft  cauliflower-like  masses,  containing  perhaps  a basic  lead  compound. 

For  uses  in  the  arts  large  quantities  of  impure  lead  acetate  are  prepared  from  wood- 
vinegar,  and  vary  in  color  from  various  shades  of  brown  to  pale-red  and  white. 

Properties. — Pure  lead  acetate  crystallizes  in  colorless,  glossy,  transparent  or  trans- 
lucent prisms,  which  are  often  tabular  and  have  an  acetous  odor  and  a sweet  astringent 
and  metallic  taste.  It  is  slightly  efflorescent  in  the  air,  and 
on  continued  exposure  is  superficially  converted  into  lead  car- 
bonate. When  heated  to  40°  C.  (i04°  F.)  the  salt  loses  its 
water  of  crystallization  (14.25  per  cent.).  It  fuses  at  200°  C. 

( 392°  F.)  with  the  loss  of  acetic  acid  and,  when  strongly 
heated,  it  is  completely  decomposed,  with  the  evolution  of  carbon 
dioxide  and  acetone,  and  leaving  a residue  of  finely  divided 
metal  mixed  with  oxide  and  carbonate.  It  also  loses  its  water 
of  crystallization  over  sulphuric  acid  and  by  the  action  of  abso- 
lute alcohol,  crystallizing  from  this  liquid  in  an  anhydrous 
condition ; but  when  dissolved  in  hot  stronger  alcohol  the  salt 
crystallizes  on  cooling  with  2H20.  It  dissolves  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  in  2.3  parts,  and  at 
the  boiling-point  in  J part  of  water.  The  solution  has  a slight  acid  reaction,  and  if 
concentrated  and  mixed  with  strong  alcohol,  gradually  separates  a portion  of  the  salt  in 
crystals.  It  dissolves  also  in  about  1 part  of  boiling  and  in  21  parts  of  cold  alcohol,  U.  S. 
(29  parts  P.  Gr.),  and  is  precipitated  from  this  solution  as  a crystalline  powder  on  the 
addition  of  ether.  The  aqueous  solution  of  the  salt  has  a slightly  acid  reaction,  and  yields 
a black  precipitate  with  hydrogen  sulphide  test-solution,  a yellow  one  with  potassium 
iodide  test-solution,  and  a white  one  with  diluted  sulphuric  acid.  On  heating  the  salt  in 
the  flame  of  the  blowpipe  upon  charcoal  globules  of  metallic  lead  are  obtained,  sur- 
rounded by  a reddish-yellow  incrustation.  The  salt  is  decomposed  by  the  mineral  and 
many  organic  acids,  acetic  acid  being  liberated. 

Tests. — Lead  acetate  should  yield  a clear  solution  with  distilled  water.  A slight 
turbidity  resulting  from  the  presence  of  a little  carbonate  must  disappear  on  the  addition 
of  a small  quantity  of  acetic  acid.  Perfect  solubility  indicates  the  absence  of  sulphate 
and  notable  quantities  of  chloride.  The  aqueous  solution,  completely  precipitated  by 
hydrogen  sulphide,  should  yield  a filtrate  which  is  not  precipitated  by  ammonia  and 
ammonium  sulphide  (zinc,  etc.)  or  oxalic  acid  (calcium,  barium),  and  does  not  leave 
any  fixed  residue  on  being  evaporated  to  dryness  (alkalies).  Small  quantities  of  copper 
would  be  indicated  by  the  blue  color  of  the  filtrate  obtained  after  precipitating  the  solu- 
tion of  the  salt  with  an  excess  of  ammonia.  Potassium  ferrocyanide  should  yield  a 
white  precipitate  (absence  of  copper,  iron,  etc.),  and  on  treating  the  salt  with  sulphuric 
acid  in  the  presence  of  a crystal  of  ferrous  sulphate  a black  color  should  not  be  produced 
(nitrate).  “ A 10  per  cent,  solution  of  the  salt,  prepared  with  water  which  has  recently 
been  boiled,  should  be  clear,  or  only  slightly  opalescent  (limit  of  carbonate).” — U.  S. 
“38  grains  of  lead  acetate  dissolved  in  water  require  for  complete  precipitation  200 
grain-measures  of  the  volumetric  solution  of  oxalic  acid.” — Br. 

Plumbum  aceticum  crudum,  P.  G.  The  solution  of  the  salt  in  3 parts  of  distilled 
water  may  be  opalescent,  but  should  yield  a white  (not  a colored)  precipitate  with  potas- 
sium ferrocyanide. 

Action  and  Uses. — Locally  applied,  a solution  of  lead  acetate  blanches  and  cor- 
rugates the  skin ; hence  it  is  said  to  be  astringent.  It  is  shown  to  be  a cardiac  sedative 
by  its  power  of  reducing  the  pulse-rate.  An  overdose,  besides  causing  a sense  of  constric- 
tion and  sweetness  in  the  mouth,  soon  excites  pain  in  the  abdomen,  with  vomiting  and 
diarrhoea,  which  is  sometimes  bloody ; the  limbs  tremble  and  are  affected  with  slight 
spasms,  or  even  convulsions.  Sometimes  there  is  a giddiness  like  that  of  intoxication. 
There  may  be  fever,  hurried  respiration,  and  scanty  urine.  (Compare  Lancet , Oct.  1889, 
p.  853.)  Recovery  from  acute  lead-poisoning  is  the  rule,  however  severe  the  primary 
symptoms  may  be.  Doses  of  from  2 to  8 drachms  of  the  acetate  have  been  taken  with- 
out injury,  but  sometimes  also  a protracted  derangement  of  the  digestion  is  induced, 
which  ultimately  proves  fatal.  One  case  is  recorded  in  which  a drunken  man  took  3 
ounces  of  this  salt,  and,  although  not  treated  for  twenty-four  hours,  recovered  (Luck). 
A singular  case  of  death  by  lead  acetate  was  that  of  a woman  who  while  using  this  salt 
as  a vaginal  injection  was  seized  with  peritonitis,  of  which  she  died.  A precipitate  of 
lead  sulphide  was  found  on  the  surface  of  the  peritoneum  (Amer.  Jour.  Med.  Sci.,  Oct. 
1880,  p.  577). 


Fig.  225. 


Crystal  of  Lead  Acetate. 


1260 


PLUMB  I A GET  AS. 


The  long-continued  use  of  medicinal  doses  of  lead  acetate  produces  a metallic  taste 
in  the  mouth,  tenderness  and  swelling  of  the  gums,  and  often  a bluish  line  of  lead  sul- 
phide where  they  are  attached  to  the  incisor  teeth — especially  in  persons  who  neglect  their 
teeth  and  allow  food  to  accumulate  and  become  decomposed  between  them — slowness  and 
feebleness  of  the  pulse,  colic,  a sense  of  constriction  of  the  trunk,  and  some  numbness  of 
the  hands  and  feet.  To  these  symptoms  may  be  added  fetid  breath,  loosening  of  the  teeth, 
blackened  faeces,  neuralgic  pains  in  the  legs  first,  and  then  in  the  arms,  and  the  presence 
of  lead  in  the  urine  and  upon  the  skin  revealed  by  chemical  tests.  It  may  be  remarked, 
however,  that  these  effects  must  be  very  rare  indeed,  since  hardly  any  of  the  physicians 
who  prescribe  the  medicine  habitually  have  witnessed  them.  The  most  common  evidence 
of  chronic  lead-poisoning  is  a peculiar  paralysis  of  the  extensor  muscles  (not  of  the  supi- 
nators) of  the  hands  first,  and  subsequently  of  the  legs.  It  has  been  produced  by  hair- 
dyes  and  face-powders,  by  lotions,  ointments,  plasters,  etc,,  containing  lead;  in  type- 
founders and  compositors  by  handling  type  ; by  the  use  of  snuff,  wine,  cider,  beer,  water, 
flour,  and  even  air  loaded  with  particles  of  lead  pigment  or  impregnated  with  lead,  as  in 
freshly-painted  rooms ; by  the  use  of  food  put  up  in  leaden  coverings  or  cooked  in  leaden 
utensils  (particularly  canned  food,  and  derived  chiefly  from  the  solder),  and  by  chewing 
tobacco  kept  in  leaden  wrappers.  Among  those  who  work  in  lead  in  its  manufacture  or 
in  its  use  as  a pigment,  or  who  drink  liquors  impregnated  with  it,  the  most  usual  effect  is 
the  so-called  painter’s  colic,  which  appears  to  be  a neuralgia  with  spasmodic  contraction 
of  the  intestines.  Poisoning  due  to  these  and  analogous  causes  may  be  traced  to  lead  in 
various  combinations,  and  not  to  the  acetate  alone.  Among  such  compounds  the  chromate 
is  chargeable  with  many  serious  and  even  fatal  consequences,  particularly  when  it  is  used 
to  give  a “ rich  ” color  to  pastry.  (Compare  Stewart,  Med.  News , 1.  676  ; li.  753 ; Reese, 
ib.,  li.  229.)  The  investigations  of  Friedlander  into  the  nature  of  the  lesions  causing 
lead-paralysis  led  him  to  conclude  that  lead  affects  the  structure  of  muscles  as  well  as 
their  function,  causing  wasting  of  the  nuclei  of  their  cells  and  an  atrophy  of  their  fibres. 
Next  in  order,  and  probably  as  an  effect,  a degeneration  of  the  nerves  of  the  muscles 
takes  place.  Hence  a paralysis  is  produced  which  is  essentially  peripheral,  and  which 
leads  to  the  rapid  atrophy  of  the  affected  muscles.  This  opinion  is  opposed  to  that  of 
Popow,  given  above. 

Besides  the  paralysis  of  the  extensor  muscles,  which  is  apt  to  result  in  their  atrophy 
and  a corresponding  rigid  contraction  of  the  opposing  flexors,  other  nervous  symptoms 
arise  from  the  same  poison,  and  delirium,  convulsion,  or  coma  gives  characteristic  features 
to  the  attack.  The  delirium  varies  from  mere  wandering  of  the  mind  to  maniacal  violence ; 
the  convulsive  attacks  are  generally  epileptiform,  and  coma  may  either  follow  convulsion 
or  occur  independently  of  it.  After  death  the  only  apparent  lesion  may  be  hypertrophy 
of  the  brain. 

In  many  cases  of  chronic  lead-poisoning  albuminuria  has  been  observed  and  lead 
detected  in  the  bile  and  urine ; in  pregnancy  the  death  of  the  foetus  and  abortion  are  very 
apt  to  occur.  Where  paralysis  has  long  continued  the  muscles  and  the  nerves  that  supply 
them,  as  well  as  the  corresponding  brain-centres,  are  atrophied,  and  sulphuret  of  lead  has 
been  extracted  from  the  spinal  cord  after  death  (Fisher,  Amer.  Jour.  Med.  Sci.,  July,  1892, 
p.  51). 

When  a poisonous  dose  of  lead  acetate  has  been  taken,  magnesium  sulphate  in  a large 
quantity  of  water,  with  the  addition  of  ipecacuanha,  should  be  given  to  neutralize  the 
poison  and  favor  its  rejection  by  vomiting.  Afterward  the  solution  of  magnesium 
sulphate  should  be  continued,  as  an  antidote  to  whatever  portion  of  the  lead  salt  may 
have  reached  the  intestine  and  to  cause  its  expulsion  by  purgation.  If  pain  exists,  it 
should  be  palliated  by  opiates,  especially  by  the  hypodermic  injection  of  morphine.  The 
ordinary  treatment  of  lead  colic  consists  in  the  methodical  use  of  opiates  and  evacuants — 
the  former  hypodermically,  the  latter  in  the  form  of  a solution  of  sulphate  of  magnesium 
or  of  sodium  with  tartar  emetic,  while  large  purgative  enemata  are  repeatedly  adminis- 
tered and  large  and  warm  emollient  cataplasms  are  applied  to  the  abdomen.  Instead  of 
saline  cathartics,  croton  oil  may  be  used.  The  action  of  purgatives  may  be  aided,  or  even 
superseded,  by  that  of  induced  electricity,  which  has  the  advantage  of  relieving  the  pain 
at  the  same  time.  Alum,  as  elsewhere  stated,  is  a most  valuable  remedy  in  this  affection, 
and  by  some  is  held  to  be  superior  to  purgatives. 

In  the  more  chronic  forms  of  lead-poisoning  the  chief  dependence  must  be  placed  upon 
potassium  iodide,  which  carries  off  the  lead  with  the  urine,  and  upon  sulphurous  baths, 
which  remove  it  as  it  is  eliminated  from  the  skin,  while  means  are  taken  to  stimulate  the 
paralyzed  muscles  by  means  of  friction,  massage,  and,  above  all,  by  induced  electricity. 


PLVMBI  ACETAS. 


1261 


It  is  true  that  the  use  of  potassium  iodide  as  a means  of  eliminating  lead  from  the 
system  has  been  objected  to  on  the  ground  that  it  must  form  an  insoluble  iodide  of  lead, 
and  therefore  only  confirm  the  hold  of  the  poison  upon  the  tissues.  Whether  this  must 
be  the  result  of  administering  the  remedy  or  not  may  be  left  to  ingenious  scientists  to 
determine  for  their  own  satisfaction,  while  physicians  continue  to  cure  their  patients  by 
means  which  time  as  well  as  reason  has  approved.  Meanwhile,  it  should  be  observed 
that  under  the  use  of  the  potassium  iodide  in  cases  of  lead-paralysis,  lead  is  actually 
found  in  the  urine  ( Monthly  Abst .,  Feb.  1881,  p.  122;  Edinb.  Med.  Jour.,  xxviii.  651). 
A possible  source  of  error  in  testing  urine  for  lead  by  means  of  potassium  iodide  is 
the  fact  that  if  the  patient  is  taking  bismuth  a yellow  iodide  of  that  metal  will  be  formed, 
identical  in  appearance  with  the  lead  iodide  (Putnam,  Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  Oct. 
1883,  p.  815).  As  a stimulant  to  the  spinal  centres  of  muscular  motion  strychnine  is  of 
extreme  utility.  The  cerebral  affections  produced  by  lead  are  but  little  under  the  con- 
trol of  any  medicine  except  opium,  which  is  of  great  value  in  subduing  delirium  in  the 
maniacal  form. 

Among  internal  styptics  which  act  after  absorption  into  the  blood  none  is  so  general  in 
its  application  or  certain  in  its  effects  as  lead  acetate.  It  is  said  to  be  more  efficient 
in  active  than  in  passive  haemorrhages,  but  the  rule,  if  it  be  one,  is  not  absolute.  It  has 
repeatedly  and  unequivocally  displayed  its  virtues  in  haemoptysis,  not  so  distinctly  in  uterine 
haemorrhage  connected  with  menstruation  and  with  parturition,  and  still  less  conspicu- 
ously, though  decidedly,  in  haemorrhage  from  the  stomach,  bowels,  and  kidneys ; in  all  of 
which  cases  ergot,  the  chlorides  of  iron,  creosote  and  its  congeners,  excel  it. 

The  sedative  action  of  lead  acetate  upon  the  heart,  and  its  power  of  promoting  coagula- 
tion of  the  blood,  are  thought  to  be  illustrated  by  cures  of  sacculated  aneurism  alleged  to 
have  taken  place  under  its  use ; and,  although  the  evidence  may  not  be  conclusive,  it  is 
strong  enough  to  inspire  a certain  degree  of  confidence  in  this  plan  of  treatment.  The 
same  may  be  said  of  hypertrophy  of  the  heart.  But  in  the  latter  case  the  utility  of  the 
medicine  is  less  demonstrable  and  more  improbable. 

In  chronic  dysentery  and  diarrhoea  lead  acetate  is  one  of  the  most  valuable  medicines 
of  its  class  when  given  by  the  mouth  and  also  by  the  rectum  ; and  the  same  is  true  of 
its  use  in  the  decline  of  the  acute  form  of  the  first-named  disease.  While  the  febrile 
symptoms  continue  it  should  seldom  be  employed.  It  is  best  administered  in  doses  of 
Gm.  0.06-0.12  (1  or  2 grains)  three  or  four  times  a day,  associated  with  a grain  or  less 
of  opium  or  2 or  3 grains  of  Dover’s  powder.  In  some  cases  of  tympanites  due  to 
indigestion,  and  of  the  same  condition  during  typhoid  fever , it  has  afforded  relief. 

The  astringency  it  manifests  in  the  diseases  already  named  has  been  further  shown  in 
pulmonary  affections  with  excessive  secretion.  It  has  long  been  in  common  use  for 
diminishing  the  sputa  in  tubercular  phthisis  and  chronic  bronchitis , as  well  as  for  checking 
sweats  in  both  diseases.  In  whooping  cough  with  profuse  bronchial  secretion  it  has  also 
been  used.  It  has  been  recommended  as  the  safest  and  best  remedial  agent  in  pneumonia 
( Lancet , Dec.  1889,  p.  1192),  and  particularly  as  superior  to  digitalis,  tartar  emetic,  arid 
veratrum  ; which  may  very  well  be,  since  these  medicines  are  worse  than  useless  in  the 
disease. 

In  various  nervous  diseases,  including  epilepsy,  neuralgia,  chorea,  and  hysteria,  it  has 
been  alleged  to  be  curative ; but  this  statement  is  without  substantial  foundation,  except 
in  regard  to  epilepsy,  but  that  disease  has  seldom  been  treated  by  lead  acetate. 

Lead  acetate  has  been  less  frequently  employed  than  the  subacetate  as  an  astringent 
of  external  parts,  yet  it  may  be  applied  with  advantage  in  lotions  to  contusions , excori- 
ations, sprains,  fractures,  etc.  It  is  more  conveniently  employed  in  collyria  for  conjunc- 
tivitis, both  acute  and  chronic,  and  as  an  injection  into  the  urethra  in  gonorrhoea  and  into 
the  vagina  in  leucorrlioea.  In  chronic  granular  conjunctivitis  finely-powdered  acetate  of 
lead  has  been  applied  to  the  mucous  surface  of  the  eyelids ; but  neither  the  powder  nor 
the  solution  of  any  salt  of  lead  should  be  applied  to  corneal  ulcers,  lest  the  undissolved 
particles  should  be  retained  during  cicatrization  and  occasion  permanent  opacity.  A prep- 
aration which  is  in  reality  a solution  of  lead  subacetate  has  been  made  with  lead  acetate 
5 parts,  litharge  31  parts,  glycerin  20  parts.  These  ingredients,  on  being  exposed  to  a 
temperature  of  350°  F.  for  some  time  and  filtered  through  a hot-water  funnel,  furnish  a 
clear  viscid  glycerole  containing  120  grains  of  lead  subacetate  to  the  ounce.  When  used, 
it  can  be  diluted  with  glycerin.  It  is  stated  to  be  peculiarly  applicable  to  the  treatment 
of  certain  forms  of  chronic  eczema , especially  of  the  lower  extremities.  It  appears  to  be 
most  useful  when  the  affection  is  extensive,  of  a dusky  hue,  accompanied  by  much  weep- 
ing, oozing,  and  infiltration  of  the  skin,  together  with  swelling  of  the  subcutaneous  tissue 


1262 


PLUMBI  CARBON  AS. 


and  a full  and  varicose  condition  of  the  veins.  Its  diligent  application  should  be  followed 
by  careful  bandaging  (Duhring  and  Van  Harlingen). 

As  a styptic  the  dose  of  lead  acetate  should  be  not  less  than  Gm.  0.12  (gr.  ij)  every 
hour,  and  generally  associated  with  opium.  As  much  as  Gm.  0.30  (gr.  v)  every  hour 
has  been  used  successfully,  and  without  damage,  in  certain  cases  of  haemorrhage.  In 
diarrhoeal  and  dysenteric  affections  Gm.  0.06  with  Gm.  0.03  of  opium  (gr.  j with  gr.  ss), 
three  or  four  times  a day,  is  the  average  dose ; and  for  colliquative  sweats  Gm.  0.12  I 
(gr.  ij)  several  hours  before  the  usual  time  of  appearance  of  the  symptom. 

PLUMBI  CARBONAS,  U.  S.,  Br.— Lead  Carbonate. 

Cerussa,  P.  G.  : Plumbum  carbonicum , s.  hydrico-carbonicum , Carbonas  plumbicus. — 
White  lead,  E. ; Carbonate  ' de  plomb,  Blanc  de  plomb,  Ceruse,  Fr. ; Bleiweiss , Bleicar- 
bonat,  G. 

Formula  2PbC03.Pb(0H)2  = Pb3(C03)2(0H)2.  Molecular  weight  772.82. 

Preparation. — On  passing  carbon  dioxide  gas  through  a solution  of  lead  acetate, 
or  on  adding  an  alkali  carbonate  to  a solution  of  a neutral  lead  salt,  a precipitate  of 
PbC03  is  obtained,  which,  as  a pigment,  has  less  body  than  the  basic  salt.  The  latter  is 
obtained  in  two  ways.  One  method,  known  as  the  Dutch process,  is  as  follows:  Cast  sheets 
of  lead  are  suspended  in  earthen  pots  containing  a small  quantity  of  vinegar  or  pyrolig- 
neous acid  ; a number  of  these  pots  are  arranged  in  rows,  alternating  with  layers  of  dung 
or  spent  tan,  until  a shed  is  filled,  which  is  entirely  covered  with  the  same  material.  A 
warm  and  moist  atmosphere,  charged  with  carbon  dioxide,  is  thus  produced  in  the  shed, 
favorable  for  the  oxidation  of  the  metal  and  its  conversion  by  the  acetic  vapors  into  basic  , 
lead  acetate,  which  is  decomposed  by  the  carbon  dioxide,  yielding  white  lead  and  neutral 
acetate.  The  latter  again  unites  with  a fresh  portion  of  oxide,  forming  basic  lead  ace- 
tate, which  is  again  acted  upon  by  the  carbon  dioxide,  and  the  process  continues  until,  in 
the  course  of  a few  weeks,  the  lead  is  completely  covered  with  a thick  crust  of  white  lead, 
which  is  detached,  ground  with  water,  and  washed  to  remove  lead  acetate  and  dried. 
Various  modifications  of  this  process  have  been  recommended  and  are  in  use,  the  most  ■ 
important  one  being  that  largely  used  in  Austria,  where  the  sheet  lead  is  suspended  in  ■ 
wooden  boxes,  vapors  of  acetic  acid,  moisture,  and  carbon  dioxide  being  supplied  in 
various  waj^s ; a number  of  such  boxes  are  placed  in  a suitable  room,  where  the  tempera- 
ture is  slowly  raised  from  about  25°  to  50°  C.  (77°  to  132°  F.),  until,  after  several  weeks, 
the  conversion  is  completed. 

The  other  method  is  known  as  Thenard's  process , according  to  which  a solution  of  lead  , 
subacetate  is  prepared  in  the  usual  way,  and  carbon  dioxide  passed  through  it,  the  fil- 
trate from  the  precipitate  being  again  used  in  the  preparation  of  the  lead  solution.  This  . 
process  has  been  modified  by  Benson,  so  that  levigated  litharge  is  mixed  with  1 or  2 per 
cent,  of  sugar  of  lead  and  sufficient  water  to  form  a thin  paste,  which,  with  frequent  stir- 
ring, is  exposed  to  the  action  of  carbon  dioxide  until  this  ceases  to  be  absorbed  ; the  car- 
bonate is  washed  with  water. 

Properties.— Commercial  lead  carbonate  is  in  pulverulent  masses  or  forms  a non- 
gritty,  heavy,  white  powder,  which  is  not  altered  on  exposure  to  air  unless  hydrogen 
sulphide  be  present,  when  it  turns  black.  It  is  inodorous,  and  at  first  tasteless,  but  grad- 
ually develops  a slight  sweetish  and  metallic  taste.  It  is  insoluble  in  wrater  and  alcohol, 
but  dissolves  with  effervescence  in  diluted  acetic  or  nitric  acid.  The  solutions  yield  with 
sulphuric  acid  a white,  and  with  potassium  iodide  a yellow,  precipitate.  The  white  pre- 
cipitates occasioned  in  the  solution  by  soda  and  potassa  are  soluble  in  an  excess  of  the 
precipitant.  Heated  to  155°  C.  (311°  F.),  lead  carbonate  parts  with  its  water  ; near 
180°  C.  (356°  F.)  it  begins  to  lose  carbon  dioxide  and  turns  yellow,  and  when  heated 
before  the  blowpipe  upon  charcoal  it  yields  metallic  globules  of  lead,  surrounded  by  a 
reddish-yellow  incrustation. 

Tests. — Lead  carbonate  may  be  adulterated  with  the  sulphates  of  lead,  barium,  or 
calcium,  which  would  be  left  behind  as  a white  residue  upon  treatment  with  dilute  nitric 
acid  ; only  a trifling  residue  should  be  left.  On  adding  to  this  solution  an  excess  of  caustic 
soda,  the  white  precipitate  at  first  formed  should  be  completely  dissolved  (calcium  salt), 
and  this  alkaline  solution  should  not  be  rendered  permanently  turbid  on  the  addition  of  1 
drop  of  diluted  sulphuric  acid  (barium  carbonate)  ; but  on  precipitating  the  solution  com- 
pletely with  sulphuric  acid  the  filtrate  should  be  colorless,  and  should  not  be  precipitated 
or  colored  by  potassium  ferrocyanide  (zinc,  etc.)  or  by  an  excess  of  ammonia,  copper, 
alumina  (/*.  G.).  The  solution  in  diluted  nitric  acid  on  being  completely  precipi- 


PLUMB  I 10  DID  UM. 


1263 


tated  by  hydrogen  sulphide  should  yield  a filtrate  that  is  not  rendered  turbid  by  sul- 
phuric acid. 

If  2 dm.  of  the  salt  be  dissolved  in  a mixture  of  2 Cc.  of  nitric  acid  and  10  Cc.  of 
water,  it  should  not  leave  more  than  0.02  Gm.  of  residue  (limit  of  insoluble  foreign  salts). 
On  completely  precipitating  the  solution  with  hydrogen  sulphide,  the  filtrate  should  not 
leave  more  than  a trifling  residue  on  evaporation  (limit  of  salts  of  the  alkalies,  alkaline 
earths,  or  zinc).  If  1 Gm.  of  the  salt  be  strongly  ignited  in  a porcelain  crucible,  it  should 
leave  a residue  of  lead  oxide  weighing  not  less  than  0.85  Gm.” — U.  S. 

Composition. — White  lead  is  an  oxycarbonate,  and  has  the  formula  given  above,  in 
which  case  it  will  leave  a residue  of  86.2  per  cent,  upon  being  heated  to  redness.  But 
the  composition  may  vary  from  the  presence  of  other  oxycarbonates,  and  the  residue  left 
on  ignition  has  been  found  as  low  as  83.7  and  as  a high  as  86.7  per  cent. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  preparation  is  only  used  externally  in  the  form  of  a powder 
to  protect  irritated  surfaces,  as  in  erythema , erysipelas,  intertrigo , etc.,  and  to  produce  con- 
striction of  the  congested  skin.  It  should  never  be  applied  where  the  cuticle  is  broken, 
as  it  is  one  of  the  most  poisonous  of  the  salts  of  lead.  It  enters  into  an  official  ointment, 
and  it  is  sometimes  used  in  the  form  of  white  paint,  mixed  with  linseed  oil,  as  an  appli- 
cation to  superficial  burns  and  scalds  and  to  erysipelas , but  care  should  be  taken  to  apply 
it  only  to  the  unbroken  skin. 

PLUMBI  IODIDUM,  V.  S.,  Br.— Lead  Iodide. 

Plumbum  iodatum , Ioduretum  plumbicum. — Iodure  de  plornb , Fr. ; Jodblei , G. 

Formula  Pbl2.  Molecular  weight  459.46. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Lead  Nitrate,  Potassium  Iodide,  each  4 ounces ; Distilled 
Water  a sufficiency.  Dissolve  the  lead  nitrate  by  the  aid  of  heat  in  1J  pints  and  the 
potassium  iodide  in  j pint  of  the  water,  and  mix  the  solutions.  Collect  the  precipitate  on 
a filter,  wash  it  with  distilled  water,  and  dry  it  at  a gentle  heat. — Br. 

The  reaction  between  the  two  salts  results  in  the  production  of  potassium  nitrate,  which 
remains  in  solution,  and  lead  iodide,  which  precipitates  : Pb(N03)2  + 2KI  yields  2KN03 
-j-  Pbl2.  The  quantities  ordered  by  the  Br.  Ph.  are  almost  exactly  in  equivalent 
proportions,  and  the  yield  is  5J  ounces.  Boudet  (1847)  ascertained  that  lead  acetate 
cannot  be  advantageously  used  in  the  preparation  of  the  iodide,  inasmuch  as  double 
iodide  of  lead  and  potassium  is  invariably  produced,  and  remains  dissolved  in  the  newly- 
formed  potassium  acetate.  The  nitrate  does  not  exert  any  similar  influence ; hence 
nearly  the  whole  theoretical  quantity  of  lead  iodide  is  obtained  by  the  official  process. 

Properties. — Lead  iodide,  if  precipitated  in  the  cold,  is  a bright-yellow  powder,  and 
if  obtained  from  boiling  solutions  crystallizes  in  thin,  shining,  golden-yellow  scales.  It  has 
the  spec.  grav.  6.1,  is  inodorous,  of  a slight  metallic  taste,  and  when  heated  turns  brick-red 
or  blackish-brown,  and,  if  air  be  excluded,  fuses  to  a red-brown  liquid,  and  volatilizes, 
partly  undecomposed,  at  a strong  red  heat ; on  cooling  it  gradually  acquires  again  its  yellow 
color.  When  heated  in  contact  with  air  it  melts,  iodine  is  given  off’,  and  basic  lead  iodide 
remains  behind,  having  an  orange-yellow  or  amber-yellow  color.  It  is  permanent  in  a 
dry  atmosphere,  but  when  exposed  to  the  light  while  moist  is  slowly  decomposed,  lead 
dioxide  and  carbonate  being  formed,  besides  free  iodine.  Denot  (1834)  ascertained  that 
it  requires  1235  parts  of  cold  and  187  parts  of  boiling  water  for  solution.  According  to 
Lassaigne  (1831),  the  aqueous  solution,  saturated  at  20°  C.  (68°  F.),  contains  .17  per 
cent.  (1  in  590)  and  at  100°  C.  .39  per  cent.  (1  in  200)  of  lead  iodide.  The  IT.  S.  Phar- 
macopoeia gives  its  solubility  in  cold  water  (at  15°  C.)  as  being  1 in  about  2000  parts. 
These  solutious  are  colorless  and  neutral  to  test-paper.  The  salt  dissolves  more  readily 
in  solutions  of  ammonium  chloride,  sodium  thiosulphate,  and  of  soluble  iodides  and  alkali 
acetates,  and  is  at  least  partly  converted  into  double  iodides.  Alcohol  dissolves  very 
little  of  the  salt,  and,  according  to  Vogel,  boiling  ether  decomposes  it,  dissolving  iodine 
and  leaving  pale-yellow  oxyiodide. 

Tests. — If  1 Gm.  of  the  salt  be  triturated  with  2 Gm.  of  ammonium  chloride  and  2 
Cc.  of  water,  a nearly  white  mixture  will  result.  If  this  be  transferred  to  a test-tube  and 
heated  in  a water-bath  for  a few  minutes,  a clear  and  almost  colorless  solution  should  be 
formed  (absence  of  chromate  and  other  insoluble  foreign  salts).  On  cooling  this  solution 
a solid  mass  of  nearly  colorless,  fine,  silky  crystals  will  be  produced,  and  on  adding  water 
or  diluted  sulphuric  acid  to  this  mass,  yellow  lead  iodide  will  be  separated.  If  1 Gm.  of 
the  salt  be  boiled  for  a few  minutes  with  20  Cc.  of  water,  the  mixture  then  cooled  and 
filtered,  the  lead  removed  from  the  filtrate  by  hydrogen  sulphide,  and  the  new  filtrate 


1264 


PLUMB  I NITBAS. 


somewhat  concentrated  by  evaporation,  a portion  of  this  liquid  when  mixed  with  a little 
sulphuric  acid  and  tinted  with  a drop  of  indigo  test-solution,  should  not  become  decolor- 
ized on  heating  (absence  of  nitrate).  If  another  portion  of  the  liquid  be  carefully  neu- 
tralized with  ammonia-water,  it  should  not  become  colored  red  by  a drop  of  ferric 
chloride  test-solution  (absence  of  acetate).  If  the  remainder  of  the  filtrate  be  evaporated 
to  dryness,  it  should  leave  no  residue  (absence  of  soluble  foreign  salts).” — U.  S. 

Uses. — Lead  iodide  is  generally  used  as  an  external  application  in  the  form  of  an 
ointment,  which  is  official.  It  has,  however,  been  given  internally,  with  alleged  advan- 
tage, to  diminish  malarial  enlargement  of  the  spleen , in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.013  (gr.  1) 
twice  a day  in  pilular  form,  and  gradually  increased. 

PLUMBI  NITRAS,  U.  S.,  Br.— Lead  Nitrate. 

Plumbum  nitricum,  Nitras  (Azotas~)  plumbicus. — Azotate  ( Nitrate ) de  plomb,  Fr. ; Sal 
petersaures  Bleioxyd , Bleisalpeter , G. 

Formula  Pb(N03)2.  Molecular  weight  330.18. 

Preparation. — Metallic  lead  dissolves  slowly  in  warm  dilute  nitric  acid,  but  litharge 
or  lead  carbonate  is  readily  taken  up  by  the  acid,  the  latter  with  effervescence  of  carbon 
dioxide.  A solution  of  lead  nitrate  is  also  obtained  in  the  preparation  of  lead  dioxide 
from  the  red  oxide  by  digesting  it  with  dilute  nitric  acid.  If  prepared  from  litharge  con- 
taining copper,  the  resulting  copper  nitrate  remains  at  first  in  the  mother-liquor,  but  will 
contaminate  the  last  crops  of  crystals,  necessitating  washing  with  water  and  recrystalli- 
zation. 

Properties. — Lead  nitrate  crystallizes  on  slow  evaporation  in  colorless  transparent 
octahedrons.  When  obtained  by  the  cooling  of  hot  solutions  the  crystals  are  white  and 
translucent  or  opaque.  It  has  the  specific  gravity  4.4,  is  not  altered  by  exposure,  and 
when  heated  decrepitates,  fuses,  and  gives  off  oxygen  and  nitrous  vapors,  leaving  finally 
lead  oxide.  It  is  soluble  in  2 parts  of  water  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  and  in  0.75  part  of  boil- 
ing water  ( U . S.).  Kremers  (1854)  ascertained  that  1 part  of  the  salt  requires  at  10°  C. 
(50°  F.)  2.07,  at  25°  C.  (77°  F.)  1.65,  at  45°  C.  (113°  F.)  1.25,  and  at  the  boiling  tem-  * 
perature  0.72  parts  of  water  for  solution.  It  is  likewise  soluble,  though  less  freely,  in 
weak  alcoholic  liquids,  but  is  nearly  insoluble  in  strong  alcohol  and  in  nitric  acid.  The 
salt  is  inodorous,  possesses  a sweetish  astringent  and  somewhat  metallic  taste,  and  defla- 
grates slightly  on  being  triturated  with  sulphur  or  thrown  upon  red-hot  charcoal.  Its 
solution  has  the  reactions  of  soluble  lead  salts  and  of  nitrates,  contains  62.5  per  cent,  of 
lead,  and  is  free  from  water  of  crystallization. 

Tests. — The  aqueous  solution,  on  being  completely  precipitated  by  hydrogen  sul- 
phide, should  yield  a filtrate  which  on  evaporation  leaves  no  fixed  residue  (zinc,  earths,  i 
and  alkalies).  The  solution  should  not  be  rendered  turbid  by  silver  nitrate  (chloride), 
and  after  having  been  completely  precipitated  by  sodium  sulphate  should  yield  a filtrate  , 
which  is  not  colored  red  by  potassium  sulphocyanate  (iron)  nor  blue  by  an  excess  of 
ammonia  (copper),  nor  should  this  ammoniacal  liquid  be  precipitated  by  ammonium  sul- 
phide or  ammonium  phosphate  (zinc,  magnesia). 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — In  the  preparation  of  Plumbi  iodidum. 

Other  Lead  Salts. — Plumbi  chloridum,  Lead  chloride , PbCl2  (mol.  weight  277.14),  is  obtained 
by  precipitating  a solution  of  lead  salt  with  hydrochloric  acid  or  sodium  chloride.  It  is  a white 
crystalline  powder,  which  fuses  when  heated,  and  congeals  to  a horn-like  mass  ( Plumbum  cor- 
neum ).  It  is  soluble  in  105  parts  of  water,  sparingly  soluble  in  dilute  hydrochloric  acid,  and 
more  freely  so  in  the  same  acid  when  concentrated.  It  dissolves  also  in  alkali  acetates  and 
thiosulphates. 

Plumbi  tannas,  Lead  tannate , is  prepared  by  dropping  a solution  of  tannin  into  a solution  of 
lead  acetate,  washing  and  drying  the  precipitate.  It  is  at  first  nearly  wrhite,  but  turns  gradually 
brown. 

Unguentum  plumbi  tannici,  Plumbum  tannicum  pultiforme,  s.  Cataplasma  ad  decubitim, 

P.  G .,  is  made  by  triturating  tannin  1 part  with  solution  of  lead  subacetate  2 parts,  and  incor- 
porating the  mixture  with  17  parts  of  lard.  It  is  prepared  extemporaneously. 

Action  and  Uses. — -A  solution  of  lead  nitrate  (gr.  x to  ,^j)  may  be  employed  as  a 
discutient  for  bruises  and  local  inflammations,  but  is  much  more  useful  as  a deodorizing 
agent  to  correct  the  fetor  arising  from  gangrenous  sores  and  offensive  discharges  from  the 
nostrils,  ears,  vagina,  and  rectum.  It  is  a very  efficient  remedy  for  non-constitutional 
ozsena  and  a palliative  of  the  syphilitic  form.  It  is  best  applied  by  means  of  the  nasal  douche 
in  a solution  containing  from  Gm.  0.12—0.30  in  Gm.  32  (gr.  ij— v in  fSjj)  of  water.  As  a 
cicatrizing  astringent  it  is  very  useful  in  the  treatment  of  sore  nipples  when  dissolved  in 


PLUMB  I OXIDUM. 


1265 


glycerin  or  brandy  in  tbe  proportion  of  Gra.  0.60  to  6m.  32  (gr.  x in  f^j).  It  should  be 
applied  after  suckling,  and  the  child  should  not  be  allowed  to  take  the  breast  again  until 
the  nipple  has  been  thoroughly  washed.  If  the  ulcer  or  fissure  is  deep,  a stronger  solu- 
tion than  the  above  may  be  required.  Powdered  nitrate  of  lead  appears  to  be  an  efficient 
application  to  the  sanious  fungous  ulcers  resulting  from  onychia.  After  the  first  dress- 
in",  it  is  said,  the  pain  ceases,  the  swelling  decreases,  suppuration  is  lessened,  and  the 
fetid  odor  is  destrojred.  As  the  application  is  painful,  it  is  recommended  that  the  ulcer 
be  first  washed  with  a strong  solution  of  sulphate  of  morphine  or  a preparation  of  cocaine. 
This  lead  salt  is  also  stated  to  have  cured  several  cases  of  epithelioma  when  its  powder 
was  dusted  over  the  affected  part  several  times  (Cheron,  Practitioner , xxviii.  46).  Chlo- 
ride of  lead  has  been  used  externally  in  an  ointment  with  a view  of  allaying  pain  and 
repressing  morbid  growth,  very  much  as  the  ointment  of  carbonate  (or  the  cerate  of  sub- 
acetate) of  lead  has  been  employed.  It  has  also  been  used,  like  chloride  of  zinc,  as  a 
disinfectant.  Tannate  of  lead  has  been  similarly  applied  in  ointments  and  liniments  and 
in  the  Cataplasma  ad  decubitum  above  described. 

PLUMBI  OXIDUM,  U.  S.,  Br.—  Lead  Oxide. 

Litliargyrum , Plumbum  oxydatum,  P.  G. — Litharge , E.  ; Protoxide  de  plomb , Fr. ; 
Bleioxyd,  Bleiglatte , G. 

Formula  PbO.  Molecular  weight  222.36. 

Preparation. — Lead  oxide  is  prepared  by  combining  metallic  lead  with  oxygen 
derived  from  the  air.  If  heated  to  near  a white  heat,  lead  begins  to  volatilize,  and  in 
contact  with  the  air  burns  with  a bright  white  flame  to  oxide,  which  was  formerly  known 
as  flowers  of  lead.  When  merely  heated  to  fusion  the  metal  oxidizes,  forming  a yellow 
amorphous  powder  known  as  massicot , but  at  a higher  temperature  the  oxide  melts  and 
congeals  in  crystalline  scales  known  as  litharge , or  semi-vitrifed  lead  oxide.  In  this  state 
it  is  obtained  in  several  processes,  such  as  that  known  as  cupellation , in  which  the  lead  is 
oxidized,  and  the  litharge,  as  it  forms,  removed  by  a blast,  leaving  behind  any  silver 
which  may  have  been  contained  in  the  lead.  An  identical  product  is  obtained  by  passing 
a current  of  air  over  molten  lead  heated  to  dull  redness  and  constantly  renewing  the 
surface. 

Properties. — Litharge  is  a more  or  less  crystalline  powder  which  is  composed  of 
small  scales  varying  in  color  between  yellowish  and  pale  brick-red.  When  of  a distinct 
yellow  tint  and  glossy  surface  it  has  been  called  argyritis , yellow , or  silver  litharge  (Silber- 
glatte,  6r.),  while  the  red-tinted  kind  is  sometimes  known  as  crysitis,  red  or  gold  litharge 
(Goldglatte,  Gi).  Its  density  varies  between  9.25  and  9.5.  It  is  inodorous  and  tasteless  ; 
in  contact  with  the  atmosphere  it  gradually  combines  with  a little  carbonic  acid.  When 
heated,  it  acquires  a red-brown  color,  and  at  a higher  heat  fuses,  congealing  on  cooling  in 
scales.  In  the  presence  of  even  a small  proportion  of  silica  it  congeals  to  a glass-like 
mass,  and  in  the  presence  of  charcoal  it  is  reduced  to  metallic  lead.  It  is  soluble  in 
dilute  nitric  acid  and  in  hot  acetic  acid,  the  solutions  showing  with  reagents  the  behavior 
of  lead  salts.  It  is  now  generally  conceded  that  lead  oxide  is  completely  insoluble  in 
alcohol  and  water  ; according  to  older  statements,  it  dissolves  in  70,000  parts  or  more  of 
water  after  prolonged  contact.  It  appears  to  he  somewhat  soluble  in  water  under 
increased  pressure,  also  in  glycerin  and  in  solutions  of  sugar  and  other  carbohydrates, 
which  on  being  digested  with  it  acquire  a brownish  color  and  a caramel-like  odor. 

Tests. — “ Lead  oxide  should  be  soluble  in  diluted  nitric  acid  with  but  little  efferves- 
cence (limit  of  carbonate),  and  without  the  development  of  the  odor  of  nitrous  acid, 
leaving  not  .more  than  a trifling  residue  (absence  of  silicate,  barium  sulphate,  etc.).  If 
from  the  solution  in  diluted  nitric  acid  the  lead  be  precipitated  by  sulphuric  acid,  the 
filtrate,  after  the  addition  of  an  excess  of  ammonia-water,  should  not  assume  more  than 
a slight  bluish  tint  (limit  of  copper),  nor  yield  more  than  traces  of  a reddish-yellow  pre- 
cipitate (limit  of  iron).  If  5 Gm.  of  the  oxide  contained  in  a small  flask  be  shaken  with 
5 Cc.  of  water,  then  20  Cc.  of  acetic  acid  .added  and  the  mixture  boiled  for  a few  min- 
utes. and  filtered,  the  insoluble  residue,  when  well  washed  and  dried,  should  not  weigh 
more  than  0.075  Gm.  (absence  of  more  than  1.5  per  cent,  of  insoluble  impurities).  When 
strongly  heated  in  a porcelain  crucible  the  oxide  should  not  lose  more  than  2 per  cent, 
of  its  weight  (limit  of  carbonate  and  of  moisture).” — U.  S. 

Composition. — Pure  lead  oxide  consists  of  92.82  lead  and  7.18  oxygen. 
Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Lead  oxide  is  used  in  the  preparation  of  most  lead  salts 
and  of  plaster. 

80 


1266 


PLUMB  I OXIDUM. 


Other  Oxides  and  Metallic  Lead. — Plumbi  oxidum  rubrum,  Minium,  P.  G. — Red  lead,  E. ; 
Oxyde  rouge  de  plomb,  Fr. ; Mennige,  G. — On  heating  massicot  to  near  450°  C.  (840°  F.)  it 
gradually  combines  with  more  oxygen,  and  is  converted  into  red  lead ; the  conversion  of  the 
denser  litharge  into  red  lead  is  attended  with  greater  difficulties.  It  is  a bright  orange-red, 
granular,  crystalline  powder,  which,  on  being  heated,  becomes  deeper  red,  purplish,  and  finally 
black,  and  has  a density  varying  between  8.7  and  9.1.  It  is  partly  soluble  in  dilute  nitric  acid, 
leaving  lead  dioxide  •,  at  a red  heat  it  is  converted  into  litharge,  oxygen  being  given  off ; and 
when  heated  upon  charcoal  metallic  lead  is  produced.  When  mixed  with  about  20  per  cent,  of 
sugar  and  then  treated  with  dilute  nitric  acid,  it  is  wholly  dissolved.  When  pure  it  contains 
90.66  per  cent,  of  lead  and  9.34  of  oxygen,  its  formula  being  Pb304=2Pb0.Pb02.  A variety  of 
red  lead  less  dense  than  the  ordinary  kind,  and  of  a bright  orange-red  color,  is  used  as  a pigment 
under  the  name  of  orange  mineral  or  Paris  red. 

Plumbi  dioxidum. — Lead  dioxide  (peroxide)  Puce  oxide  of  lead,  E. ; Peroxyde  (Oxyde  puce) 
de  plomb,  Fr.;  Bleihyperoxid,  G.  This  is  left  behind  as  an  insoluble  powder  on  treating  red 
lead  with  diluted  nitric  acid,  and  is  also  produced  from  solution  of  lead  salts  by  mixing  them 
with  an  excess  of  solution  of  chlorinated  lime  or  chlorinated  soda.  It  is  a dark-brown  powder, 
which,  on  exposure  to  the  light,  slowly  gives  off  oxygen,  leaving  red  lead,  and  by  heat  is  converted 
into  oxygen  and  litharge.  When  triturated  with  one-eighth  of  its  weight  of  sugar  or  with  its  own 
weight  of  oxalic  acid,  it  is  reduced  to  oxide  or  converted  into  carbonate.  Its  mixture  with  sulphur 
may  be  ignited  by  friction — a behavior  which  renders  it  useful  in  the  manufacture  of  matches. 
Since  it  readily  parts  with  one-half  of  its  oxygen,  it  is  a valuable  reagent  for  strychnine  and  some 
other  organic  bodies,  yielding  colored  oxidation-products.  Its  formula  is  Pb02,  and  it  contains 
86.61  lead  and  13.39  oxygen. 

Plumbum. — Lead,  E. ; Plomb,  Fr.  ; Blei,  G.  Symbol  Pb.  Atomicity  bivalent  or  quadriva- 
lent. Atomic  weight  206.4. — Lead  has  been  known  from  the  most  remote  period.  It  is  found  in 
the  United  States  and  many  other  countries,  occasionally  as  oxide,  more  frequently  as  carbonate 
{white  lead  ore),  or  in  combination  with  other  acids.  The  most  abundant  lead  ore  is  galena , a 
lead  sulphide,  PbS,  which  is  frequently  associated  with  the  sulphides  of  zinc,  iron,  copper,  and 
silver.  The  metal  is  obtained  from  the  galena  by  roasting  it,  whereby  a portion  is  oxidized  to 
lead  sulphate,  while  another  portion  parts  with  its  sulphur,  which  escapes  as  sulphur  dioxide, 
the  metal  being  converted  into  oxide.  The  newly-formed  compounds  react  with  the  unaltered 
galena,  forming  lead,  which  fuses,  and  sulphur  dioxide,  which  escapes.  A considerable  quantity 
of  lead  remains  in  the  slag,  which  is  used  in  a subsequent  operation.  The  extraction  of  silver 
is  effected  by  cupellation  (see  page  287),  and  the  lead  oxide  is  then  reduced  to  the  metallic  state 
by  heating  it  with  charcoal. 

Lead  has  a bluish-gray  color  and  a bright  metallic  lustre.  It  is  a soft  metal,  and  when  cooled 
slowly  leaves  a mark  on  being  drawn  over  paper.  Its  specific  gravity  is  11.4;  it  is  very  malle- 
able and  ductile,  but  less  tenacious  than  most  other  common  metals ; fuses  at  325°  C.  (617°  F.) 
and  volatilizes  at  a white  heat.  On  congealing,  it  expands  slightly,  but  afterward  contracts  con- 
siderably, and  under  some  circumstances  it  may  be  obtained  crystallized  in  regular  octahedrons. 
When  exposed  to  a moist  atmosphere  it  is  superficially  oxidized  and  becomes  covered  with  a 
grayish  layer.  In  contact  with  water  and  air  or  in  the  presence  of  a minute  quantity  of  am- 
monia or  of  nitric  acid,  the  metal  is  corroded  and  small  quantities  of  it  are  held  in  solution. 
Sulphates  prevent  the  lead  from  being  dissolved,  or,  if  dissolved,  precipitate  an  insoluble  sulphate. 

In  addition  to  the  three  oxides  described  above,  the  existence  of  a suboxide,  Pb20,  has  been 
assumed,  but  is  doubted  by  many  chemists.  Lead  sesquioxide,  Pb203=Pb0.Pb02,  has  been  ob- 
tained as  a yellow  precipitate  by  adding  chlorinated  soda  to  an  alkaline  solution  of  lead,  and 
more  recently  (1878)  by  II.  Debray  as  a greenish-brown  powder  by  heating  lead  peroxide  to  350° 

There  are  two  series  of  lead  salts , in  one  of  which  lead  is  contained  in  the  acidulous  radical, 
while  in  the  other  it  constitutes  the  base.  The  former  are  called  plumbates , and  are  obtained  by 
heating  together  lead  peroxide  with  alkali  hydroxides ; the  alkali  plumbates  are  colorless,  de- 
composed by  much  water,  and  yield  plumbates  of  the  metals  by  acting  upon  metallic  salts.  The 
plumbic  salts  are  white  or  colorless,  unless  colored  by  the  acid  ; mostly  insoluble  in  water,  and 
then  usually  soluble  in  dilute  nitric  acid.  The  salts,  which  are  soluble  in  water,  have  a sweet 
and  metallic  taste  and  an  acid  reaction  to  litmus,  and  their  solutions  yield  white  precipitates 
with  carbonates,  sulphates,  phosphates,  and  chlorides,  the  last  of  which  is  slightly  soluble  in 
water,  but  less  soluble  in  hydrochloric  acid,  while  the  precipitated  lead  sulphate  is  insoluble  in 
water  and  dilute  sulphuric  and  hydrochloric  acids.  Alkalies  produce  white  precipitates  of 
plumbic  hydroxide,  which  is  insoluble  in  ammonia,  but  soluble  in  potassa  and  soda.  Potassium 
ferrocyanide  yields  a white  precipitate.  The  precipitates  by  potassium  chromate  and  potassium 
iodide  are  characterized  by  a bright-yellow  color;  the  latter  crystallizes  from  hot  solutions  in 
golden-colored  scales.  Hydrogen  sulphide  precipitates  black  lead  sulphide,  which  is  insoluble 
in  dilute  acids  and  in  ammonium  sulphide.  Iron  and  zinc  separate  from  the  solutions  of  lead 
salts  the  lead  in  the  metallic  state,  and  by  heating  the  salts  with  sodium  carbonate  upon  char- 
coal before  the  blowpipe,  metallic  globules  of  lead  and  a reddish-yellow  incrustation  of  lead  oxide 
are  obtained. 

Uses.  — Oxide  of  lead  is  seldom  used  alone.  It  enters  into  the  composition  of  lead 
plaster,  and  hence  of  most  of  the  plasters  which  owe  their  adhesiveness  to  that  compound. 
A mixture  of  oxide  of  lead  with  sweet  oil  has  been  applied  to  superficial  burns , and 


PODOPHYLLUM. 


1267 


ordinary  white  paint,  containing  litharge,  linseed  oil,  and  oil  of  turpentine,  is  a popular 
and  excellent  remedy  for  the  same  affection.  Care  should  be  taken  not  to  leave  it  in 
contact  with  the  broken  skin.  Gerhardt  has  proposed  a mixture  of  oxide  of  lead  and 
potassa  as  a caustic  for  condylomata  and  warts  of  the  glans  penis  and  vagina.  It  pro- 
duces a blackish  slough,,  but  does  not  penetrate  deeply. 

PODOPHYLLUM,  U.  S.,  Fr.  Cod. — Podophyllum  ; May-Apple. 

Podophylli  rhizoma , Br. — Mandrake-root , E. ; Rhizome  de  podophyllum , Fr. ; Fuss- 
hlattwurzel , G. 

The  rhizome  of  Podophyllum  peltatum,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 17. 

Nat.  Ord. — Berberidaceae. 

Origin. — Mandrake  is  an  herbaceous  perennial  growing  in  rich  woodlands  in  Canada 
and  the  United  States.  The  pale-green  stem  is  about  25  or  30  Cm.  (10  or  12  inches) 
high,  and  bears  at  its  summit  two  peltate,  deeply  five-  or  seven-lobed  leaves,  which  are 
10-15  Cm.  (4  to  6 inches)  in  diameter,  and  a single  white  flower  with  six  or  nine  petals 
and  twice  the  number  of  liypogynous  stamens.  The  flowerless  stems  generally  bear  only 
a single  leaf.  The  fruit  is  a yellowish,  oval,  fleshy  berry,  and  contains  twelve  or  more 
seeds,  which  are  enclosed  in  a pulpy  arillus.  Collected  in  autumn,  the  rhizome  loses 
about  66,  and  in  spring  about  75  per  cent,  on  drying. 

Description. — The  rhizome  is  horizontal,  several  feet  long,  but  as  found  in  com- 
merce is  always  in  fragments  varying  from  3 to  20  Cm.  (1  to  6 or  8 inches)  in  length.  It 
consists  of  joints  or  annual  shoots  25  to  75  Mm.  (1  to  3 inches)  long,  3—6  Mm.  (4  to  I 
inch)  thick,  and  marked  with  distant  leaf-scars.  The  end  of  each  joint  is  enlarged 
to  the  diameter  of  about  12  Mm.  (I  inch),  is  depressed  globular  in  shape,  and  occa- 
sionally branching,  has  approximate  leaf-scars,  on  the  upper  side  a circular  depressed 


Fig.  226. 


Rhizome  of  Podophyllum  peltatum,  Linne. 


stem-scar  containing  one  or  two  rows  of  wood-bundles,  and  on  the  lower  side  is  beset  with 
from  eight  to  twelve  nearly  simple  rootlets.  Bhizome  and  rootlets  are  of  a yellowish-  or 
reddish-brown  color  externally,  smooth  or  with  longitudinal  wrinkles,  very  brittle,  and 
therefore  the  radicles  often  detached ; nearly  inodorous,  and  of  a sweetish  somewhat 
bitter  and  acrid  taste.  The  rhizome  is  white  and  mealy  inside,  and  has  a rather  thick 
bark  and  a thin  circle  of  yellowish  wood-bundles  enclosing  a compact  central  pith.  The 
rootlets  have  a thick  white  bark  and  a thin  yellowish  central  cord. 

Constituents. — The  analysis  of  podophyllum  by  J.  B.  Lewis  (1847)  showed  the 
presence  of  starch  and  other  common  vegetable  principles,  and  of  two  resins,  one  soluble, 
the  other  insoluble,  in  ether.  According  to  H.  A.  Tilden  (1859),  the  rhizome  collected 
in  April  contains  two  resins  in  nearly  the  same  proportion,  but  C.  J.  Biddle  (1879) 
showed  that  the  ether-soluble  portion  varied  throughout  the  year  only  between  78  and 
90  per  cent,  of  the  total  resin.  W.  A.  Saunders  (1867)  and  Snow  (1886)  showed  that 
the  rootlets  yield  as  much  resin  as  the  rhizome  ; and  according  to  C.  J..  Biddle  the  yield 
is  largest  in  spring  and  smallest  in  summer.  The  bitter  principle  was  obtained  in  an 
impure  condition  by  Hodgson  (1831).  F.  F.  Mayer  (1863)  announced  the  presence  of 
berberine  and  another  (white)  alkaloid,  and  of  saponin,  but  the  investigations  of  F.  B. 
Power  (1877—78),  indicate  the  total  absence  of  saponin  and  of  any  alkaloid  ; and  we  have 
subsequently  shown  that  at  all  periods  of  its  growth  the  rhizome  is  free  from  alkaloid. 
The  powdered  drug,  according  to  Kiirsten  (1891),  yields  successively  fat  to  benzin, 
podophyllotoxin  to  chloroform,  and  podophylloquercetin  to  ether ; the  active  podophyllo- 
toxin  crystallizes  from  hot  benzene  and  is  sparingly  soluble  in  water,  but  freely  soluble  in 
acetone.  Picropodophyllin  is  amorphous  and  more  sparingly  soluble  than  the  preceding. 


1268 


POLYGALA. 


The  dry  leaves  contain,  according  to  Power  and  Charter  (1886),  6 per  cent,  of  soft, 
dark-green,  bitter  resin,  which  is  less  drastic  than  the  resin  of  the  rhizome. 

Podophyllum  Emodi,  Wallish,  growing  in  shady  valleys  in  Kashmire  and  other 
Himalayan  states,  has  a rhizome  resembling  that  of  the  American  plant,  but  the  tuber- 
osities and  stem-scars  are  rather  crowded ; according  to  Dymock  (1889),  it  yields  10  per 
cent,  of  resin,  which  is  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  chloroform,  and  in  alkalies,  and  is 
an  efficient  cathartic  in  doses  of  | grain  ; it  is  very  similar  to,  and  probably  identical  with, 
the  official  resin. 

Tinctura  Podophylli,  Br. — Resin  of  podophyllum  160  grs. ; rectified  spirit  20  fl.  oz. 

Action  and  Uses. — Workmen  employed  in  pulverizing  podophyllum  find  it  exces- 
sively irritating  to  the  eyes,  nose,  mouth,  respiratory  passages,  and  even  to  the  skin 
(Med.  Record , xii.  357).  The  resin  applied  to  an  ulcer  produces  its  characteristic  purga- 
tive effects  with  nausea.  Internally,  in  small  doses,  it  is  a very  slow  and  gentle  laxative, 
producing  formed  or  semi-solid  stools,  but  in  large  doses  it  is  a drastic  and  persistent 
purge.  Its  bitter  and  nauseous  taste,  when  taken  in  powder  or  in  solution,  causes  saliva- 
tion, but  under  any  form,  and  however  introduced  into  the  system,  it  has  the  same  effect 
if  it  occasions  nausea,  which  it  does  by  irritating  the  stomach.  It  excites  the  secretion 
of  bile,  if  at  all,  in  the  same  way  as  it  does  that  of  the  saliva,  by  the  reflex  influence  of 
the  irritation  produced  by  it  in  the  stomach  and  duodenum.  In  the  case  of  a woman 
who  took  10  grains  of  podophyllin  severe  abdominal  pains  came  on  in  about  two  hours, 
but  did  not  last  for  more  than  an  hour.  There  was  very  little  pain,  and  the  patient 
recovered  ( Phila . Med.  Times , xii.  520).  A dose  of  88  grains  of  “ podophyllin  ” was 
fatal  to  a young  woman  ( Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  Nov.  1886,  p.  436).  In  another 
fatal  case  the  dose  is  said  to  have  been  only  5 grains  (Med.  Record , xxxvii.  409). 

According  to  Podwyssotski  (Arch,  f Pathol,  u.  Phar.,  xiii.  29),  the  essential  constituent 
of  podophyllum  is  podophyllotoxin,  of  which  he  says  that  the  dose  is  from  one-fourth  to 
one-third  of  a grain  for  an  adult. 

Podophyllum  has,  like  jalap,  the  excellent  quality  of  causing  a slow  but  complete 
evacuation  of  the  bowels,  without  greatly  tending  to  render  them  torpid,  provided  it  be 
given  in  suitable  doses.  This  quality  makes  it  useful  in  habitual  constipation.  For 
this  purpose  Gm.  0.01  (1  grain)  of  podophyllum  resin  with  Gm.  0.013  (1  grain)  of 
extract  of  belladonna,  Gm.  0.06  (1  grain)  of  extract  of  hyoscyamus,  and  Gm.  0.06 
(1  grain)  of  soap  may  be  made  into  a pill  to  be  taken  at  bedtime.  Like  other  active 
cathartics,  podophyllum  resin  in  removing  constipation  removes  also  one  of  the  causes 
which  tend  to  prolong  constipation — the  condition  which  is  generally  spoken  of  as  torpor 
of  the  liver , and  which  is  attended  with  hepatic  fulness  and  perhaps  some  yellowness  of 
the  skin,  and  which  is,  in  fact,  generally  due  to  the  infarction  of  the  excretory  ducts  of 
the  liver  with  inspissated  bile.  It  nearly  always  arises  from  sluggish  habits  of  living,  im- 
prudence in  diet,  and  neglect  of  the  function  of  defecation.  In  the  constipation  produced 
by  lead  the  following  formula  may  be  employed : R . Podophylli  resin,  gr.  ss ; Ext.  nucis 
vom.  gr.  j ; Ext.  belladonna  gr.  ss ; for  a pill  to  be  taken  two  or  three  times  a day.  Like 
other  drastic  cathartics,  it  has  been  used  in  minute  doses  for  the  treatment  of  diarrhoea. 

The  dose  of  powdered  podophyllum  as  a purgative  is  Gm.  0.60-1.20  (gr.  x-xx) ; the 
dose  of  the  extract  is  about  the  same ; as  a laxative,  Gm.  0.30-0.60  (gr.  v-x).  The 
strength  of  resin  of  podophyllum  is  uncertain,  and  its  dose  varies  from  Gm.  0.01-0.06 
(gr.  i-j)  and  upward.  It  seldom  begins  to  act  in  less  than  twelve  hours.  It  has  been 
given  in  varnished  capsules,  which  are  supposed  not  to  dissolve  before  reaching  the 
duodenum,  and  thus  nausea  and  gastric  irritation  are  alleged  to  be  prevented.  The 
following  may  be  found  a convenient  formula:  R.  Podophyllum  gr.  ij  ; tincture  of 
ginger  ft;ij  ; diluted  alcohol  to  f^ij. — M.  S.  A teaspoonful  in  a wine-glass  of  water  as 
a habitual  laxative  in  constipation.  Braun  states  the  dose  of  podophyllum  resin  to  be 
for  a child  of  thirteen  years  from  to  | grain,  arid  under  one  year  from  y1^  to  ^ grain ; 
and  of  podophyllotoxin,  for  children  under  one  year,  from  g!_  to  -g1^  grain ; up  to  four 
years,  to  y1-^  gr. ; and  above  that  age  y1^-  to  A-  grain.  It  is  most  conveniently  dissolved 
in  the  proportion  of  f grain  in  about  100  drops  of  rectified  spirit.  Of  this  solution  from 
2 to  10  drops  may  be  given  in  a teaspoonful  of  syrup  ( Practitioner , xxviii.  54). 

POLY GALA. — Bitter  Polygala. 

Poly  gale,  Laitier , Fr.  ; Kreuzblume , Milchwurz , G. ; Poligala  amarga , Sp. 

The  root  and  herb  of  Polygala  rubella,  Willdenow , s.  P.  polygama,  Walter. 

Nat,  Ord. — Polygalaceas. 


POTASSA. 


1269 


Description. — The  bitter  polygala,  or  bitter  milkwort,  is  a biennial  herb  growing  in 
dry  fields  and  pastures  from  Canada  southward  to  the  Gulf  of  Mexico.  It  has  a fusiform 
root  and  numerous  glabrous  nearly  simple  stems  which  are  15-20  Cm.  (6  to  8 inches) 
high,  and  bear  a terminal  narrow  raceme  of  about  fifteen  to  twenty-five  purple,  finally 
pendulous  flowers.  The  leaves  are  alternate,  linear-oblong  or  oblanceolate,  narrowed 
below,  obtuse,  and  somewhat  inucronate.  The  flowers  are  showy  and  conspicuously 
crested  ; racemes  of  inconspicuous  flowers  are  produced  on  procumbent  stems,  and  usually 
fertilized  in  the  bud.  The  plant  is  without  odor  and  has  a bitter  taste. 

Allied  Species. — Pol.  sanguinea,  Lining.  It  grows  in  similar  localities  to  the  preceding,  has 
the  stem  fastigiately  branched  above  and  leafy  to  the  top  ; narrow  linear  or  lance-linear  leaves, 
and  terminal  globular  heads  of  dark-red  and  inconspicuously  crested  flowers.  Several  others, 
like  Pol.  fastigiata,  Nuttall , and  Pol.  Nuttallii,  Torrey  et  Gray , are  closely  related  to  it. 

Pol.  scoparia,  Kunth , is  used  in  a similar  manner  in  Mexico. 

Pol.  amara,  Linne.  It  grows  in  mountainous  woods  and  meadows  of  Europe,  is  about  15  Cm. 
(6  inches)  high,  has  rosulate,  obovate,  or  spatulate  radical  leaves,  smaller  linear  or  oblong  linear 
stem-leaves,  and  lax  racemes  of  blue  flowers.  It  is  used  in  Europe  as  Herba  polygalce. 

Pol.  vulgaris,  Linne.  A common  European  perennial  about  20  Cm.  (8  inches)  high,  with 
lanceolate  or  spatulate  radical  leaves,  longer  linear-lanceolate  stem-leaves,  and  short  or  lax  and 
elongated  racemes. 

Pol.  major,  Jacquin , grows  in  South-eastern  Europe.  The  root,  Radix  polygalce  hungaricce , is 
about  38  Mm.  (1J  inches)  long  and  4 Mm.  (£  inch)  thick,  has  a thin  pale  yellowish-brown  bark, 
a woody  meditullium,  and  a sweetish,  unpleasant,  slightly  bitter  taste. 

Pol.  serpentaria,  Ecklon  et  Zcyher.  In  Southern  Africa  the  root  is  used  as  an  alexipharmic. 
It  is  about  20  Cm.  (8  inches)  long,  light-brown,  and  has  a thin  reddish-brown  bark. 

Pol.  venenosa,  Jacquin,  a shrub  of  Java,  with  large  oblong  or  obovate  leaves,  is  considered  to 
be  poisonous. 

Soulamea  amara,  Lamarck,  indigenous  to  the  Moluccas,  is  a shrub  or  tree,  all  parts  of  which 
are  intensely  bitter  and  are  reputed  to  possess  antiperiodic  properties. 

Monnixa  polystachya,  Ruiz  et  Pavon , is  a Peruvian  shrub  ; the  root-bark  contains  saponin, 
and  is  used  in  diarrhoea  and  as  a substitute  for  soap  in  washing  and  in  polishing  metals. 

Constituents. — Reinsch  (1839)  obtained  from  Polygala  amara  small  quantities  of 
solid  volatile  oil,  tannin,  and  wax,  considerable  pectin,  and  a crystalline  compound,  poly- 
galamarin,  which  has  a very  bitter  taste  and  foams  considerably  when  agitated  with 
water. 

Action  and  Uses. — Polygala  rubella  is  said  to  be  closely  analogous  in  medicinal 
virtues  to  P.  amara  of  Europe.  Some  of  the  most  recent  European  works  on  the  materia 
medica  reject  the  latter  altogether.  It  is,  however,  a mild  bitter  tonic,  with  some  influ- 
ence in  bronchial  catarrh,  and  may  be  convenient  in  domestic  medicine,  but  scarcely 
deserves  an  official  rank.  P.  vulgaris  possesses  the  same  virtues  essentially.  Its  active 
principle  is  analogous  to  senegin. 

POTASSA,  V.  S.— Potassa. 

Potassa  caustica,  Br. ; Kali  causticum  fusum,  P.  G. ; Potassae  ( Potassii ) hydras,  Kali 
hydricum  fusum , Oxydum  potassicum , Lapis  causticus  chirurgorum. — Caustic  potash , 
Potassium  hydroxide,  Potassium  hydrate,  E. ; Potasse  caustique,  Potasse  fondue,  Pierre 
d cautere,  Fr. ; Kaliumhydroxyd,  Aetzkali,  G. 

Formula  KOH.  Molecular  weight  55.99. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Solution  of  Potash  2 pints.  Boil  down  rapidly  in  a clean 
silver  vessel  until  there  remains  a clear  fluid  of  oily  consistence,  a drop  of  which,  when 
removed  on  a warm  glass  rod,  solidifies  on  cooling.  Pour  this  into  proper  moulds,  and 
when  it  has  solidified,  and  while  it  is  still  warm,  put  it  into  stoppered  bottles. — Br. 

The  process  by  which  the  solution  is  made  is  described  and  explained  on  p.  975.  This 
solution  is  evaporated,  and  the  remaining  potassium  hydroxide  fused  until  ebullition 
ceases,  and  a glass  plate  laid  upon  the  vessel  ceases  to  become  moist  from  condensed 
water ; the  fused  mass  is  then  poured  upon  a cold  iron  plate,  and  after  congealing  broken 
into  smaller  pieces,  or  it  is  poured  into  clean  cylindrical  iron  moulds  which  have  been 
previously  warmed.  If  it  is  desired  to  obtain  the  potassa  in  powder,  the  melted  mass 
while  cooling  is  briskly  stirred  with  a silver  spatula  or  the  solid  pieces  are  rapidly  trit- 
urated in  a warm  iron  mortar.  The  finished  product  should  in  all  cases  be  at  once  put 
into  well-stoppered  bottles  made  of  hard  glass.  Vessels  made  of  glass,  porcelain,  copper, 
and  of  most  other  materials  are  corroded  by  the  concentrated  solution  and  the  fused 
hydroxide  ; the  operation  must  therefore  be  performed  in  a vessel  of  silver  or  of  well- 
cleaned  iron. 


1270 


POTASSA. 


Properties. — Caustic  potassa  is  either  pulverulent  or  in  irregular  pieces  of  crystal- 
line texture ; more  generally  it  is  in  dry  white  cylindrical  pieces,  which  break  readily 
with  a crystalline  and  somewhat  translucent  fracture.  It  is  inodorous  or  has  a faint  odor 
of  lye ; its  taste  is  strongly  caustic  and  acridly  alkaline.  It  dissolves  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.) 
in  0.50  parts  of  water  and  in  2 parts  of  alcohol,  and  is  much  more  soluble  in  both 
liquids  at  the  boiling  temperature  ( U.  S.)  ; the  taste  and  reactions  of  these  solutions  are 
strongly  alkaline.  The  alcoholic  solution  is  yellowish,  and  on  keeping  turns  brown. 
Potassa  is  but  slightly  soluble  in  ether.  On  exposure  to  the  air  it  rapidly  absorbs  moist- 
ure, liquefies,  and  combines  with  carbon  dioxide.  When  heated  to  about  530°  C.  (986° 
F.)  it  fuses  to  a colorless  oily  liquid,  and  in  a strong  red  heat  it  slowly  volatilizes,  form- 
ing white  acrid  vapors. 

Tests. — “ The  aqueous  solution  (1  in  20)  should  be  perfectly  clear  and  colorless 
(absence  of  organic  matter).  After  acidulation  with  hydrochloric  acid  it  yields  bright- 
yellow  precipitates  with  platinic  chloride  test-solution  and  with  sodium-cobaltic  nitrite 
test-solution.  A concentrated  aqueous  solution  (1  in  10),  when  dropped  into  tartaric 
acid  test-solution,  produces  at  first  a white  crystalline  precipitate,  which  redissolves  when 
the  potassa  is  added  in  excess.  If  1 Gm.  of  potassa  be  dissolved  in  10  Cc.  of  water 
and  slightly  supersaturated  with  acetic  acid,  10  Cc.  of  the  solution  should  not  be  colored 
or  rendered  turbid  by  the  addition  of  an  equal  volume  of  hydrogen  sulphide  test-solu- 
tion (absence  of  arsenic,  lead,  etc.),  nor  by  the  subsequent  addition  of  ammonia-water 
in  slight  excess  (absence  of  iron,  aluminum,  etc.)  The  remainder  of  the  acidulated  solu- 
tion should  not  be  rendered  turbid  by  ammonium  oxalate  test-solution  (absence  of  cal- 
cium). If  a solution  of  1.5  Gm.  of  potassa  in  10  Cc.  of  water  be  slightly  supersaturated 
with  nitric  acid,  then  0.5  Cc.  of  decinormal  silver  nitrate  solution  added,  and  the  precipi- 
tate, if  any,  removed  by  filtration,  the  clear  filtrate  should  remain  unaffected  by  the 
further  addition  of  more  silver  nitrate  solution  (limit  of  chloride).  If  to  a solution  of 
3.5  Gm.  of  potassa  in  10  Cc.  of  water,  strongly  supersaturated  with  hydrochloric  acid, 
0.1  Cc.  of  barium  chloride  test-solution  be  added,  and  the  precipitate,  if  any,  removed 
by  filtration,  the  clear  filtrate  should  remain  unaffected  by  the  further  addition  of  barium 
chloride  test-solution  (limit  of  sulphate).  If  1 Gm.  of  potassa  be  dissolved  in  2 Cc.  of 
water  and  added  to  10  Cc.  of  alcohol,  not  more  than  a slight  colorless  precipitate  should 
occur  within  ten  minutes  (limit  of  silicate).  After  boiling  this  alcoholic  solution  with 
5 Cc.  of  calcium  hydroxide  test-solution  and  filtering,  not  the  slightest  effervescence  should 
take  place  on  adding  the  filtrate  to  an  excess  of  diluted  hydrochloric  acid  (limit  of  car- 
bonate). If  0.2  Gm.  of  potassa  be  dissolved  in  2 Cc.  of  water  and  carefully  mixed  with 

4 Cc.  of  pure  sulphuric  acid  and  2 drops  of  indigo  test-solution,  the  blue  color  should 
not  be  discharged  (limit  of  nitrate).  To  test  for  soda,  dissolve  0.56  Gm.  of  potassa  in 

5 Cc.  of  water,  add  a few  drops  of  phenolphtalein  test-solution,  and  then  from  a burette 
enough  tartaric  acid  test-solution  (3  Gm.  in  20  Cc.)  to  accurately  neutralize  the  solution. 
Next  add  another  volume  of  the  tartaric  acid  test-solution  equal  to  that  first  used,  and 
then  enough  absolute  alcohol  to  completely  precipitate  the  potassium  bitartrate  formed. 
Separate  the  precipitate  by  filtration  and  wash  it  with  a little  alcohol.  The  filtrate  should 
not  require  more  than  0.2  Cc.  of  normal  potassium  hydroxide  solution  to  restore  the  red 
color  (absence  of  more  than  1.5  per  cent,  of  soda).  To  neutralize  0.56  Gm.  of  potassa 
should  require  not  less  than  9 Cc.  of  normal  sulphuric  acid  (each  Cc.  of  the  volumetric 
solution  corresponding  to  10  per  cent,  of  pure  potassium  hydroxide),  phenolphtalein  being 
used  as  indicator.” — U.  S.  The  last  test  is  not  strictly  accurate  unless  the  total  absence 
of  soda  is  ascertained. 

An  impure  potassa  of  a deep-gray  or  greenish  color  is  sometimes  met  with.  It  is  unfit 
for  medicinal  purposes,  and  may  be  purified  by  treating  it  with  alcohol,  which  dissolves 
the  alkali,  and  evaporating  this  solution  to  dryness. 

Composition. — The  formula  of  potassa  is  given  above.  When  pure  it  contains 
16.07  per  cent.  H20  and  83.93  per  cent.  K20,  but  as  met  with  in  commerce  there  is 
usually  an  excess  of  water,  amounting  to  6 or  8 per  cent. 

Metallic  Potassium  and  Salts. — Potassium,  or  Kalium,  was  first  isolated  by  Humphrey  Davy 
(1807),  and  is  obtained  Avith  some  difficulty  by  heating  potassium  hydroxide  or  sulphide  with 
metallic  iron,  in  which  case  ferric  oxide  or  sulphide  is  formed ; or  an  intimate  mixture  of  potas- 
sium carbonate  and  charcoal  is  heated  to  strong  redness,  when  carbonic  oxide  is  produced,  and 
the  metal  distils  into  a receiver  containing  petroleum. 

It  is  silver  gray,  of  a strong  metallic  lustre,  harder  than  sodium,  but  softer  than  lead,  fuses  at 
58°  C.  (136.4°  E.),  is  brittle  at  the  freezing-point  of  water,  and  at  a red  heat  volatilizes,  forming 
green  vapors.  Its  density  is  0.865,  its  atomic  weight  39.03,  and  its  atomicity  univalent.  It  has 


POTASSA. 


1271 


a great  affinity  for  oxygen,  and  when  thrown  upon  water  decomposes  this  liquid,  melts,  and  burns 
with  a purple  flame.  ~ It  must  be  preserved  under  petroleum  naphtha  which  is  free  from  oxygen. 
There  are  three  oxides  of  potassium  known — the  monoxide,  K20,  dioxide,  K20.2,  and  tetroxide , 
K,04,  of  which  only  the  former  is  of  importance  on  account  of  the  uses  in  medicine  and  the  arts 
to  which  its  combinations  with  water  and  acids  are  put. 

Potassium  Salts.  Potassa  is  a very  strong  base,  and  completely  neutralizes  the  strongest 
acids.  The  salts  are  colorless,  unless  the  acid  has  a distinct  color,  and  are  neutral  to  test-paper, 
except  those  with  weak  acids,  which  have  a distinct  alkaline  reaction.  They  are  mostly  readily 
soluble  in  water,  and  in  such  solutions,  if  not  too  dilute,  are  precipitated  in  a gelatinous  condi- 
tion by  hydrofluosilicic  acid,  and  in  a crystalline  form  by  tartaric  acid,  acid  sodium  tartrate,  so- 
dium eobaltic  nitrite,  platinic  chloride,  and  sodium  picrate.  The  last  three  precipitates  are  yellow, 
the  others  white.  When  heated  before  the  blowpipe  the  potassium  salts  impart  a purplish  tinge 
to  the  flame,  which  is  masked  by  the  presence  of  a small  quantity  of  sodium  salt.  The  yellow 
color  of  the  latter  is  absorbed  by  looking  at  the  flame  through  blue  glass,  and  the  potassium  flame 
becomes  then  visible. 

Potassa  is  used  in  the  preparation  of  numerous  other  potassium  compounds:  the  following 
new  salts  have  been  introduced  during  the  last  two  or  three  years : 

Potassii  cantharidas,  Potassium  cantharidate,  C10H12K2O5.2H2O.  If  cantharidin  be  heated 
with  twice  its  weight  of  potassium  hydroxide  and  100  parts  of  water  in  a flask  on  a water-bath, 
a clear  solution  of  potassium  cantharidate  will  be  obtained  5 the  solution  is  usually  diluted  by  the 
gradual  addition  of  warm  water  to  such  an  extent  that  each  Cc.  shall  contain  0.0002  Gm.  of  can- 
tharadin.  The  salt  may  be  obtained  in  crystals  having  the  above  composition  and  soluble  in  25 
parts  of  water  ; the  addition  of  acids  to  the  aqueous  solution  causes  the  separation  of  cantharidin, 
not  cantharidic  acid,  which  latter  has  never  been  obtained  in  a free  state.  Potassium  canthari- 
date was  first  recommended  by  Liebreich  in  1891  for  hypodermic  injection  in  the  treatment  of 
certain  forms  of  tuberculosis.  The  average  dose  for  adults  is  1-1.5  Cc.  of  a solution  of  the  salt, 
representing  0.0002-0.0003  Gm.  (3^4— 2T6  grain)  of  cantharidin. 

Potassii  osmas,  Potassium  osmate,  K20s04.2H20.  This  salt  is  preferred  by  many  to  pure  osmic 
acid  (see  page  48).  It  is  prepared  by  adding  potassium  hydroxide  to  an  alcoholic  solution 
of  osmium  tetroxide ; the  liquid  assumes  a beautiful  red  color,  and  if  concentrated,  the  potas- 
sium osmate  will  separate  as  a crystalline  powder.  Slow  evaporation  of  dilute  solutions  produces 
deep  garnet-red  crystals  of  octahedral  shape,  which  are  readily  soluble  in  water,  of  a sweetish  as- 
tringent taste,  and  permanent  in  dry  air ; in  moist  air  the  salt  deliquesces  and  is  decomposed ; 
hence  solutions  of  the  salt  are  not  very  stable.  Potassium  osmate  is  generally  used  hypoder- 
mically in  form  of  a 1 per  cent,  solution ; internally  it  may  be  given  in  pill  form,  in  doses  of 

0. 001-0.0015  Gm.  (gb— tx  grain). 

Potassii  telluras,  Potassium  tellurate,  K2Te04.  This  compound  and  the  corresponding  sodium 
salt,  Na2Te04,  are  prepared  by  neutralizing  an  aqueous  solution  of  pure  crystallized  telluric  acid 
with  potassium  and  sodium  hydroxide  respectively,  evaporating  the  solution  to  dryness,  and  wash- 
ing the  residue  with  alcohol.  Both  salts  occur  as  a white  crystalline  powder,  readily  soluble  in 
water,  but  insoluble  in  alcohol ; a 2 per  cent,  aqueous  solution  should  not  at  once  yield  a black 
precipitate  upon  addition  of  stannous  chloride  solution,  showing  the  absence  of  tellurious  acid. 
The  alkali  tellurates  have  been  recommended  as  antihydrotics  in  daily  doses  of  0.05  Gm.  (about 
4 grain),  to  be  given  at  bedtime ; they  have  been  used  with  effect  in  arresting  the  night-sweats 
of  phthisis,  but  communicate  an  intense  garlicky  odor  to  the  breath,  which  is  but  slightly  modified 
by  peppermint. 

Action  and  Uses. — Potassa  is  one  of  the  strongest  caustics.  It  destroys  animal 
tissue  by  abstracting  water,  neutralizing  free  acids,  decomposing  nitrogenous  compounds, 
and  forming  solutions  of  fibrin,  albumen,  and  gelatin.  Between  the  fingers  it  has  a soapy 
feel.  In  contact  with  the  soft  tissues  it  causes  severe  burning  pain,  and  produces  a moist, 
ashen,  and  then  black,  leathery  slough,  which  leaves  a granulating  ulcer  behind  it. 

The  symptoms  of  poisoning  by  a solution  of  potassa  are  these  : An  acrid,  urinous,  and 
caustic  taste  in  the  mouth,  burning  in  the  throat ; nausea,  and  vomiting  of  alkaline  matters, 
which  are  usually  bloody  ; intense  pain  in  the  fauces,  oesophagus,  stomach,  and  bowels  ; 
diarrhoea,  convulsions,  delirium  ; a cold,  clammy  skin,  and,  if  the  dose  has  been  large  and 
not  instantly  rejected,  speedy  death.  Sometimes  death  takes  place  from  inflammation  of 
the  larynx  ; sometimes,  after  several  weeks  from  the  gastro-intestinal  lesions  (which  con- 
sist of  more  or  less  destruction  of  the  mucous  membrane,  etc.)  ; and,  finally,  it  may  occur 
after  several  months  from  stricture  of  the  oesophagus.  A case  is  recorded  in  which  life 
was  maintained  for  forty  days  by  nutrient  enemata  exclusively  {Jour.  Am.  Med.  Assoc., 

1.  558). 

In  small  or  medicinal  doses  potassa  increases  the  amount  of  urine  secreted,  rendering 
it  less  acid  ; in  larger  or  in  long-continued  doses  it  diminishes  the  coagulability  of  the 
blood,  and  may  give  rise  to  a cachectic  condition,  with  paleness  and  oedema  of  the  skin, 
passive  haemorrhages,  and  general  emaciation — a state  identical  with  that  occurring  in 

scurvy. 

Potassa  in  solution  is  used  as  an  antacid  to  correct  acidity  of  the  stomach  which  pro- 


1272 


POTASS  A CUM  CALCE. 


cceds  either  from  fermentation  of  the  contents  of  the  organ  or  from  an  excessive  amount 
of  its  proper  secretion,  and  which  is  accompanied  by  heartburn,  sour  eructations,  aphthae, 
spasm  of  the  oesophagus,  vomiting,  gastric  cramp,  colic,  tympanites,  irregular  diarrhoea, 
etc.  In  treating  such  conditions  with  alkalies  the  acidity  is  indeed  palliated,  but  its 
cause  must  be  removed  to  make  a cure  certain,  and  that  is  usually  best  secured  by  means 
of  tonic  medicines  and  regimen.  For  the  relief  of  calculous  disorders  potassa  is  less 
appropriate  than  soda  and  its  carbonates.  Gm.  1.30  (20  minims)  of  solution  of  potassa 
largely  diluted  are  said  to  prevent  and  also  to  relieve  strangury  from  cantliarides.  For- 
merly, this  medicine  was  considered  as  almost  a specific  in  the  treatment  of  glandular 
scrofula , but  the  influence  of  the  hygienic  conditions  existing  at  the  same  time  appears 
to  have  been  underrated.  It  should  not,  however,  be  neglected,  but  given  in  the  dose 
of  Gm.  0.30  (5  drops),  largely  diluted,  after  meals.  Solution  of  potassa  is  useful  in 
some  cases  of  acne  rosacea , and  in  the  treatment  of  boils  it  has  been  thought  efficient. 

Externally,  potassa  is  used  chiefly  as  a caustic  to  promote  the  healing  of  callous  ulcers 
and  sinuses  and  to  destroy  fungous  granulations.  It  has  been  especially  employed  to 
destroy  chancres  in  their  first  stage  and  to  cauterize  'poisoned  wounds.  It  is  much  used  in 
the  treatment  of  ingrown  nail  and  paronychia , and  was  formerly  employed  for  opening 
scrofulous  abscesses.  It  has  been  applied  as  a counter-irritant  in  diseases  of  the  hip-joint 
and  other  joints,  and  for  the  purpose  of  exciting  inflammation  in  the  ends  of  ununited 
fractured  bones  ; but  these  uses,  as  well  as  its  application  to  carbuncles , erectile  tumors , 
varicose  veins , and  to  the  spine  in  tetanus , are  well  nigh  obsolete,  it  having  been  superseded 
by  more  efficient  and  less  painful  remedies.  The  same  may  be  said  of  its  use  in  the 
treatment  of  urethral  stricture.  It  is  one  of  the  most  convenient  agents  for  establishing 
issues.  To  prevent  the  caustic  action  from  spreading  laterally,  a piece  of  adhesive  plaster 
should  be  applied  first,  with  an  aperture  of  the  size  of  the  intended  issue.  Upon  the 
skin  thus  exposed  and  moistened  a small  portion  of  fused  potassa  is  laid,  and  the  degree 
of  its  action  regulated  by  the  duration  of  its  contact.  The  action  may  be  arrested  at  any 
point  by  a sponge  or  cloth  wet  with  vinegar.  Milder  action  may  be  secured  by  applying 
the  stick  of  fused  potassa,  duly  covered,  except  at  one  end,  with  shellac  varnish  or  seal- 
ing-wax, and  maintaining  its  contact  for  a longer  or  shorter  time  according  to  the  effect 
desired.  (For  other  uses  of  potassa  see  Liquor  Potass^e  and  Potassa  c.  Calce.) 

The  proper  antidote  to  poisoning  by  potassa  is  vinegar  or  other  vegetable  acid. 


POTASSA  CUM  CALCE,  U.  S.—  Potassa  with  Lime. 

Pulvis  causticus  cum  calce,  Pulvis  causticus  Viennensis  ( Londinensis) . — Vienna  caustic, 
E. ; Caustique  ( Poudre ) de  Vienne,  Fr. ; Wiener  Aetzpulver,  G. 

Preparation. — Potassa,  Lime,  of  each  500  Gm.  Rub  them  together  in  a warm 
mortar,  so  as  to  form  a powder,  and  keep  it  in  a well-stoppered  bottle. — U.  S. 

Properties. — This  is  a grayish-white  powder  of  a strongly  caustic  taste  and  alka- 
line reaction.  When  exposed  to  the  air  it  absorbs  moisture  and  carbon  dioxide. 
Treated  with  diluted  nitric  or  hydrochloric  acid,  it  dissolves  completely  with  slight 
effervescence,  and  yields  a solution  in  which  both  potassium  and  calcium  are  indicated 
by  reagents. 

Causticum  cum  potassa  et  calce,  F.  Cod.,  is  a stronger  preparation,  known  in  France 
as  caustique  de  Filhos,  and  made  by  fusing  100  parts  of  caustic  potassa,  adding  thereto 
10  parts  of  powdered  burned  lime,  and  pouring  the  mass  into  lead  tubes  of  suitable  size 
to  harden. 

Causticum  commune  mitius.  Under  this  name  a preparation  was  formerly  employed 
which  was  made  either  by  intimately  mixing  equal  weights  of  soft  soap  and  powdered 
burned  lime,  or  caustic  potassa  was  dissolved  in  three  times  its  weight  of  water,  and  a 
sufficient  amount  of  lime  added  until  the  whole  was  converted  into  a pasty  mass. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  caustic  is  milder  in  its  operation  than  pure  potassa.  When 
applied  in  a dry  state  to  the  skin  it  absorbs  moisture  from  it  and  from  the  air,  and  par- 
tially deliquesces.  It  is  best  employed  after  being  reduced  to  a paste  with  a little  alco- 
hol. Its  action  may  be  limited  laterally  by  means  of  adhesive  plaster,  and  in  depth  by 
the  duration  of  its  contact.  The  sticks  of  Filhos’s  caustic  may  be  protected  from  the 
air  by  waxed  paper,  by  sealing-wax,  gutta-percha,  or  varnish.  For  still  further  mitiga- 
ting the  caustic  action  of  the  potassa  in  this  preparation  the  alkali  may  be  fused  with 
gutta-percha  in  any  required  proportion.  Its  uses  are  the  same  as  those  of  potassa 
employed  as  a caustic. 


POTASSA  SULPHURATA. 


1273 


POTASSA  SULPHURATA,  77.  S.,  Sulphurated  Potassa. 

Potassii  sulphuretum;  Kalium  sulfur  at  um,  P.  G.  ; Hepar  sulphuris.—  Sulphur  et  of  potas- 
sium, Liver  of  sulphur,  E. ; Sulfure  de  potasse,  Foie  de  soufre,  Fr. ; Schwefelleber ,'  G. 

Origin. — The  name  ‘-liver  of  sulphur”  was  introduced  by  Basilius  Valentinus  in 
the  fifteenth  century,  but  the  process  of  melting  together  sulphur  with  an  alkali  was 
known  already  to  Albertus  Magnus  in  the  thirteenth  century,  and  the  solubility  of  sul- 
phur in  alkalies  to  Geber  in  the  eighth  century.  Spielmann  (1706)  recommended  the 
preparation  of  liver  of  sulphur  from  2 parts  of  potassium  carbonate  and  1 part  of  sul- 
phur, in  which  proportion  the  ingredients  are  still  employed. 

Preparation.. — Sublimed  Sulphur  100  Gm. ; Potassium  Carbonate,  dried,  200  Gm. 
Rub  the  powdered  and  dried  potassium  carbonate  with  the  sulphur,  and  heat  the  mixture 
gradually  in  a covered  crucible  until  it  ceases  to  foam  and  is  in  a state  of  perfect  fusion. 
Then  pour  the  liquid  on  a marble  slab,  and  when  it  has  solidified  and  become  cold  break 
it  into  pieces,  and  keep  them  in  a well-stoppered  bottle  of  hard  glass. — U.  S. 

The  different  pharmacopoeias  prepare  this  compound  in  a like  manner,  and  use  the  sul- 
phur and  potassium  carbonate  in  the  proportion  given  above.  On  heating  the  mixture 
an  evolution  of  carbon  dioxide  takes  place,  causing  the  mass  to  swell,  and  when  this 
ceases  the  heat  is  finally  raised  to  a dull  redness,  so  as  to  produce  perfect  fusion  ( U.  S., 
Bri),  and  continued  until  a small  portion  of  the  mass  is  found  to  be  entirely  soluble  in 
water  without  separating  any  sulphur  ( P . 67).  The  crucible  must  be  kept  covered  to 
prevent  the  sulphur  from  igniting,  and  after  the  melted  mass  has  been  poured  out  on  a 
slab,  flagstone,  an  oiled  iron  plate,  or  into  a porcelain  mortar,  it  is  either  broken  into  suit- 
able pieces  as  soon  as  it  has  congealed,  or  first  allowed  to  cool,  being  in  the  mean  time 
covered  with  a porcelain  basin  or  bell-glass,  so  as  to  exclude  the  air  as  completely  as  pos- 
sible (j Br.).  The  yield  from  the  quantities  given  in  the  formula  is  about  225  Gm. 

On  fusing  sulphur  with  potassium  carbonate  the  latter  is  decomposed,  with  the  evolu- 
tion of  carbon  dioxide,  the  sulphur  uniting  with  the  potassium  to  form  a potassium  poly- 
sulphide, a portion  of  which  is  oxidized  by  the  oxygen  of  the  carbonate,  in  excess  over 
that  contained  in  the  carbon  dioxide,  to  form  potassium  sulphate  or  thiosulphate : 4K2- 
C03  -f-  5S2  yields  K,S04  -f-  3K2S3  4-  4C02,  and  3K2C03  -f-  4S2  yields  K2S203  + 2K2S3  + 
3C02.  But  the  degree  of  heat  is  likewise  of  importance,  since  at  a high  temperature  the 
potassium  thiosulphate  is  decomposed  into  pentasulphide  and  sulphate ; 4K2S203  yields 
K2S5  + 3K2S04.  It  is  evident  from  this  that  products  of  very  different  composition  are 
obtained  by  varying  the  proportion  of  the  material,  or,  if  this  be  used  in  the  same  relative 
proportions,  by  the  injudicious  application  of  heat,  by  which  a part  of  the  sulphur  may  be 
sublimed.  The  directions  of  the  Pharmacopoeia  should  therefore  be  strictly  adhered  to. 

Properties. — Sulphurated  potassa,  when  recently  made  or  well  preserved  in  closed 
vessels,  is  in  irregular  fragments,  breaking  with  a shallow  conchoidal  fracture  and  having 
a liver-brown  color,  which  in  contact  with  moisture  changes  to  greenish-yellow  or  brown- 
yellow.  It  has  a slight  odor  of  hydrogen  sulphide,  a bitter  and  acridly  alkaline  sulphur- 
ous taste,  and  an  alkaline  reaction  to  test-paper.  It  is  partly  deliquescent  on  exposure, 
and  yields  with  water  a brownish-yellow  solution  which  has  a strong  odor  of  hydrogen 
sulphide,  and  evolves  the  latter  freely  on  the  addition  of  hydrochloric  or  sulphuric  acid, 
sulphur  being  at  the  same  time  deposited.  After  boiling  the  hydrochloric  acid  solution 
until  the  hydrogen  sulphide  has  been  expelled,  the  liquid,  freed  from  sulphur  by  filtra- 
tion, will  yield  a yellow  precipitate  with  platinum  chloride  and  a white  precipitate  with 
barium  chloride.  The  acid  solution  on  being  neutralized  with  soda  yields,  with  a satu- 
rated solution  of  sodium  bitartrate,  a white  crystalline  precipitate  of  potassium  bitartrate 
(U.  S.).  The  same  precipitate  is  obtained  on  dissolving  sulphurated  potassa  in  20  parts 
of  water,  boiling  with  excess  of  acetic  acid,  filtering,  and  adding  tartaric  acid  ( P . 67). 
About  one-half  of  the  weight  of  sulphurated  potassa  is  dissolved  by  rectified  spirit  ( Br .), 
the  insoluble  portion  being  mainly  potassium  sulphate. 

When  intended  for  internal  use  the  compound  should  be  perfectly  soluble  in  2 parts  of 
water.  For  external  use  an  impurer  article,  Kalium  sulfuratum  ad  balneum,  is  made  like 
the  above,  with  the  exception  that  impure  potassium  carbonate  (pearlash)  is  substituted 
for  the  purified. 

If  not  protected  from  contact  with  air,  sulphurated  potassa  becomes  green,  and  afterward 
gray,  being  partly  converted  into  carbonate  through  the  carbon  dioxide  of  the  air,  and  partly 
oxidized  to  thiosulphate,  sulphite,  and  sulphate,  sulphur  being  at  the  same  time  liberated. 

Tests. — “On  triturating  together  1 Gm.  of  sulphurated  potassa  and  1 Gm.  of  crys- 
tallized cupric  sulphate  with  10  Cc.  of  water,  and  filtering,  the  filtrate  should  remain 


1274 


POTASSA  SULPBURATA. 


unaffected  by  hydrogen  sulphide  test-solution,  corresponding  to  at  least  12.85  per  cent, 
of  sulphur  combined  with  potassium  to  form  sulphide.” — ( TJ.  S.)  Hirsch  states  ( Ver- 
gleichende  Uebersicht , page  206)  that  10  parts  of  the  freshly-prepared  compound,  made 
with  potassium  carbonate  of  90  per  cent,  purity,  will  precipitate  9 parts  of  crystallized 
cupric  sulphate,  but  should  be  regarded  as  of  good  quality  if  from  7.5  to  8 parts  of  the 
latter  salt  be  precipitated ; Hager  adopts  8 parts  of  the  copper  salt  as  the  lowest  limit. 
None  of  the  pharmacopoeias  give  a test  for  the  detection  of  soda  which  may  have  been 
partly  substituted  for  the  potassa  salt : it  is  best  detected  by  accurately  precipitating  the 
aqueous  solution  with  lead  nitrate,  evaporating  the  filtrate,  powdering  the  residue,  and 
leaving  it  in  contact  with  alcohol  of  spec.  grav.  0.879,  of  which  17  parts  will  dissolve  1 
part  of  sodium  nitrate,  while  potassium  nitrate  is  sparingly  soluble.  The  alcohol,  pre- 
viously saturated  with  the  latter  salt,  will  dissolve  the  sodium  salt,  the  amount  of  which 
may  thus  be  estimated. 

Allied  Compounds. — Potassii  sulphidum,  Potassium  monosulphide,  K2S ; molecular  weight 
110.04.  Hydrogen  sulphide  gas  is  conducted  into  a solution  of  potassa  as  long  as  it  is  absorbed, 
and  an  equal  bulk  of  potassa  solution  is  added.  The  colorless  liquid  has  a bitter  taste  and  a 
strongly  alkaline  reaction,  and  on  evaporation  in  vacuo  yields  colorless  deliquescent  quadrangu- 
lar prisms,  containing  5II20,  which  are  somewhat  soluble  in  alcohol. 

Potassii  sulphocarbonas,  Potassium  sulphocarbonate  or  thiocarbonate,  K2CS3.  On  agitating 
a solution  of  potassium  monosulphide  with  carbon  disulphide  the  liquid  acquires  a yellow  or 
red-brown  color,  according  to  its  concentration  and  purity,  and  on  careful  evaporation  at  30°  C. 
(86°  F.)  yields  orange-yellow  deliquescent  crystals  of  the  hydrated  salt,  or  a crystalline  precipi- 
tate of  the  same  salt  on  mixing  the  brown  liquid  with  alcohol.  It  has  a cooling,  pungent,  and 
somewhat  sulphurous  taste,  and  is  sparingly  soluble  in  alcohol.  On  agitating  potassa  solution 
with  carbon  disulphide  a brown  liquid  containing  both  potassium  carbonate  and  sulphocarbonate 
is  obtained.  Such  a solution  has  been  employed  in  Europe  for  the  destruction  of  the  phylloxera 
insect  which  infests  grapevines. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  extremely  offensive  smell  and  taste  of  this  preparation  in 
solution  have  caused  its  use  as  an  internal  medicine  to  be  nearly  abandoned ; but  even  if 
these  objections  to  it  had  not  existed,  it  would  scarcely  have  held  its  ground  against  the 
results  of  accurate  observation.  At  one  time  it  was  thought  to  be  a specific  remedy  for 
membranous  croup , but  longer  experience  showed  that  the  supposed  merits  of  the  medi- 
cine were,  as  in  so  many  other  cases,  due  to  errors  in  diagnosis,  to  mistaking  spasmodic 
croup,  which  is  seldom  fatal,  for  pseudo-membranous  laryngitis,  from  which  recovery  is 
rare.  It  is  no  longer  used,  although  once  regarded  as  a specific,  for  whooping  cough  ; nor 
for  pulmonary  consumption , in  which  it  was  formerly  employed ; nor  yet  for  scrofula , 
especially  of  the  glands,  which  it  was  once  believed  to  cure ; nor  does  it  continue  to  be 
prescribed  as  an  antidote  in  acute  poisoning  by  lead , arsenic , mercury , or  copper  salts. 
There  is  more  reason  to  think  it  of  service  in  chronic  poisoning  with  mercury  and  lead. 
It  has  been  used  with  doubtful  advantage  in  the  treatment  of  certain  forms  of  dyspepsia , 
apparently  those  attended  with  mucous  regurgitation  or  vomiting. 

Externally,  lotions  and  ointments  made  with  sulphurated  potassa  have  been  much  used 
in  the  treatment  of  limited  eruptions  of  acne , impetigo , psoriasis , etc.,  and  for  lessening 
mucous  or  purulent  discharges  from  the  nostrils,  ear,  vagina,  etc.  It  is  sometimes  em- 
ployed in  the  treatment  of  scabies , as  in  the  following  liniment:  R.  Potass,  sulphurat. 
^vj  ; Saponis  alb.  Oij  ; 01.  olivae  ^iv  ; 01.  thymi  gij. — M.  (Jadelot);  but  less  commonly 
than  sulphur  itself.  It  is,  however,  very  efficient,  although  if  thoroughly  applied  after 
the  skin  is  softened  by  a prolonged  warm  bath,  it  is  apt  to  produce  eruptions  of  eczema, 
which  require  time  and  treatment  for  their  cure. 

The  action  and  uses  of  baths  containing  this  preparation  are  as  follows : About  Gm. 
128  (^iv)  of  it  are  sufficient  for  a full  bath.  Such  a bath,  even  at  ordinary  temperatures, 
stimulates  the  skin  and  is  apt  to  cause  sleeplessness,  but  these  and  corresponding  effects 
are  more  decided  when  the  temperature  of  the  water  is  equal  to  that  of  the  skin  or  above 
it.  Hence  these  baths  are  contraindicated  when  fever  is  present  or  a tendency  to  haemor- 
rhage exists.  Such  conditions  apart,  they  are  often  very  serviceable  in  chronic  rheuma- 
tism, scrofula , cutaneous  eruptions , and  chronic  profluvia  from  the  bowels  and  urinary 
organs,  and  have  been  used  in  lead-palsy  and  other  paralyses.  They  excite  copious  sweat- 
ing, and,  as  above  remarked,  tend  to  produce  papular  and  vesicular  eruptions  of  the  skin, 
particularly  if  the  baths  are  prolonged,  as  they  sometimes  are,  for  several  hours.  If 
these  effects,  and  especially  the  perspiration,  are  wanting,  a sense  of  fulness,  and  indeed 
a relative  plethora,  may  be  induced,  which  is  not  free  from  the  dangers  before  alluded  to. 
In  such  cases  a douche  directly  applied  to  the  affected  part  is  to  be  preferred. 

Internally,  the  dose  of  sulphurated  potassa  is  Gm.  0.20-0.60  (gr.  iij-x). 


POTASSII  ACETAS. 


1275 


POTASSII  ACETAS,  77.  S.,  Br. — Potassium  Acetate. 

Kalium , s.  Kali  aceticum , P.  G. ; Acetas  potassicus , s.  kalicus,  Terra  foliata  tartari. — 
Acetate  of  potash  ( potassd),  F. ; Acetate  de  potasse,  Fr. ; Kaliumacetat , Essigsaures  Kali:  G. 

Formula  KC2H302.  Molecular  weight  97.89. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Potassium  Carbonate  20  ounces  ; Acetic  Acid  2 pints  or  a 
sufficiency.  To  the  acetic  acid,  placed  in  a thin  porcelain  basin,  add  gradually  the  potas- 
sium carbonate,  filter,  acidulate,  if  necessary,  with  a few  additional  drops  of  the  acid,  and, 
having  evaporated  to  dryness,  raise  the  heat  cautiously  so  as  to  liquefy  the  product. 
Allow  the  basin  to  cool,  and  when  the  salt  has  solidified,  and  while  it  is  still  warm,  break 
it  in  fragments  and  put  it  into  stoppered  bottles. — Br. 

On  adding  potassium  carbonate  or  bicarbonate  to  acetic  acid  an  effervescence  of  carbon 
dioxide  takes  place,  and  water  and  potassium  acetate  are  formed;  K2C03 -j-  2HC2H302 
yields  2KC2H302  + H20  + C02,  and  KHC03  + HC2H302  yields  KC2H302  + H20  + C02. 
On  the  application  of  heat  the  carbon  dioxide  which  remains  dissolved  in  the  water  is 
expelled,  and  the  liquid  should  now  have  a neutral  or  preferably  a slightly  acid  reaction, 
in  which  case  it  contains  a slight  excess  of  acetic  acid.  The  evaporation  of  this  solution 
is  effected  either  by  means  of  a sand-bath  or  over  the  naked  fire,  and  the  salt  may  be 
obtained  dry  and  granulated  by  continued  stirring  at  about  120°  C.  (248°  F.)  ; or  the  dry 
salt  is  fused  by  the  cautious  application  of  heat,  so  as  not  to  char  it,  after  which  the 
melted  salt  is  allowed  to  solidify.  In  making  this  salt  potassium  bicarbonate  is  prefer- 
able, in  being  nearly  free  from  impurities  and  yielding  at  once  a salt  perfectly  soluble  in 
water.  Potassium  carbonate  is  less  pure,  but  usually  yields  a clear  solution  with  acetic 
acid,  which,  on  being  evaporated  to  dryness  and  again  dissolved  in  water  containing  a 
little  acetic  acid,  leaves  some  floccules  of  silica  behind,  from  which  it  maybe  filtered  and 
afterward  again  evaporated. 

Potassium  acetate  may  also  be  prepared  from  lead  acetate  by  precipitating  its  solution 
with  a slight  excess  of  potassium  carbonate,  filtering,  acidulating  the  filtrate  with  acetic 
acid,  testing  with  hydrogen  sulphide  to  ensure  its  complete  freedom  from  lead,  and 
evaporating. 

Properties. — Potassium  acetate  is  a white  salt  forming  a crystalline  soft  mass  or  a 
dry  granular  powder,  or  more  frequently  it  is  seen  as  a satiny,  foliaceous,  crystalline  mass 
which  melts  to  an  oily  liquid  at  about  292°  C.  (557.6°  F.),  and  at  a higher  temperature 
evolves  acetic  acid,  acetone,  empyreumatic  and  inflammable  products,  and  leaves  potas- 
sium carbonate  and  charcoal.  The  salt  is  nearly  inodorous,  is  free  from  acetous  odor,  has 
a warm  and  somewhat  pungently  saline  taste,  and  is  very  deliquescent  in  the  air.  It 
dissolves  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  in  0.36  part  of  water  (ZZ  S.,  P.  6r.),  and  in  1.9  ( U S.), 
1.4  (P.  G .)  of  alcohol.  According  to  Osann,  it  dissolves  at  2°  C.  (35.5°  F.)  in  0.531 
part,  at  13.9°  C.  (57°  F.)  in  0.437  part,  and  at  28.5°  C.  (83.3°  F.)  in  0.321  part  of  water. 
The  aqueous  solution,  saturated  while  boiling,  contains  1 part  of  the  salt  to  0.125  part 
of  water,  and  boils  at  169°  C.  (336°  F.)  (Berzelius).  Cold  absolute  alcohol  dissolves 
one-third,  and  at  the  boiling  temperature  one-half,  its  weight  of  the  salt.  The  alcoholic 
solution  on  the  addition  of  ether  gives  a crystalline  precipitate  of  the  salt,  and  on  pass- 
ing carbon  dioxide  through  it  potassium  carbonate  is  separated  and  acetic  ether  produced. 
The  aqueous  solution  has  a nearly  neutral  but  faintly  alkaline  reaction,  disengages 
acetous  vapors  on  the  addition  of  sulphuric  acid,  and  yields  with  platinic  chloride  or  sodium 
cobaltic  nitrite  a yellow,  and  with  sodium  bitartrate  a white,  crystalline  precipitate,  and 
it  gives  with  ferric  chloride  a dark-red  color,  and  on  boiling  a brown-red  precipitate.  A 
solution  of  the  salt  in  20  parts  of  water  precipitates  potassium  bitartrate  on  the  addition 
of  tartaric  acid.  On  triturating  the  salt  with  iodine  it  acquires  an  indigo-blue  color, 
changing  to  brown  on  the  addition  of  water. 

Tests. — Potassium  acetate,  when  strewn  upon  colorless  sulphuric  acid,  should  not 
produce  effervescence  nor  impart  any  color  to  the  latter  (absence  of  carbonate  and  readily 
carbonizable  organic  impurities).  Its  solution  in  distilled  water  should  not  give  a pre- 
cipitate or  a turbidity  on  the  addition  of  hydrogen  sulphide,  ammonium  sulphide,  or 
potassium  ferrocyanide  (absence  of  heavy  metals).  A 5 per  cent,  solution  of  the  salt 
should  not  give  more  than  a faint  opalescence  with  sodium  carbonate  (alkaline  earths), 
or  with  barium  chloride  (sulphate  or  carbonate).  The  concentrated  aqueous  solution  of 
the  salt  on  being  dropped  into  acetic  acid  should  not  produce  any  effervescence  (carbon- 
ate), and  if  mixed  with  an  excess  of  hydrochloric  acid  and  evaporated  to  dryness  the 
remaining  salt  should  be  completely  soluble  in  water  (silica  from  potassium  carbonate). 


1276 


POTASSII  ACETAS. 


.}  op  Pofcas»ium  acetate  be,  by  thorough  ignition,  converted  into  carbonate  the 
residue  should  require,  for  complete  neutralization,  not  less  than  10  Cc.  of  normal  sulphuric 
acid  (corresponding  to  at  least  98  percent,  of  pure  potassium  acetate),  methyl-orange 

traced  nfedthS  indlcato^.  ~ ^ & . Slnce  th e other  pharmacopoeial  tests  admit  only  mere 
traces  of  other  salts,  this  test  is  intended  to  prove  the  absence  of  sodium  acetate  and  of 

Xtt: W m0iStT  - T';r  la/er  iS  mOTe  readi'y  -timate"  Vy%iTg\t 

salt  at  120  C.  (-48  F.)  , considering  the  hygroscopic  nature  of  the  salt,  3 or  4 per  cent 

;"rl  W"UJd.  See“  ‘j  ve  adml8sible-  The  Presence  of  notable  quantities  of  sodium 
cetate  is  best  determined  by  the  intense  yellow  color  imparted  by  the  salt  to  a non 
luminous  flame.  4.9  Gin.  of  dry  potassium  acetate,  evaporated  to  dryness  wkh  an  ezces 
of  hydrochloric  acid,  leave  a residue  of  KC1  weighing  3.72  Gm  or  allowing  for  2 ner 

Giii™  and* of’  tb^  ^“ir  ^ T' > ^ ^ a " taT feats  o^ly 

3.49  Gm.,  and  of  the  crystallized  sodium  salt  2.104  Gm.,  NaCl.  “ If  to  a portion  of  the 

solution  acidulated  with  nitric  acid  0.1  Cc.  of  decinormal  silver  nitrate  solution  be  added 

the  liquid  should  after  filtration,  show  no  further  change  on  the  addition  of  more  silver 

nitrate  solution  (limit  of  chloride).  Addition  of  0.3  Cc.  of  potassium  ferrocyanide  test- 

solution  should  effect  no  change  in  the  solution  within  fifteen  minutes  (limit  of  iron).”— 

Pharmaceutical  Uses  — Potassium  acetate,  being  unfit  for  dispensing  in  the  dry 
PhlrCopS  recces-  “ $ 0D'  F°r  in  *■*"»*■*  *«>  GermaS 

weithTnf  the  T Ac.f ICI:  ?•  Kaui  aoeticum  solutum,  which  contains  one-third  of  its 
7o41  wl  i clp!epa:red  bJ  ne,UtraIizi"g  10«  Part.s  acetic  acid  spec.  grav. 


anf7diTut!^8wrth°  PrSOfPOtaSSiUm  1flrbonate>  expelling  the  carbon  dioxide^by!  heal,' 

1 18 o 8 h sufficlent  water  to  obtain  147  parts.  Its  specific  gravity  is  1.176- 


specific  gravity 


Actl°n  and  Uses.-Potassmm  acetate  acts  upon  the  blood  as  a solvent  and 
diluent,  upon  the  glands  and  mucous  membranes  as  a depurative,  augments  the  secretion 

Cm  6 oon;j  T' 1 sweat’ and  does  "»t  readily  disorder  the  digestion.  In  doses  of  from 

frill  lb  32  (2  to  1 ounce)  it  is  a nnld  laxative.  It  is  decomposed  in  the  system,  and  is 
discharged  with  the  urine  as  potassium  carbonate,  rendering  this  secretion  alkaline 

is  sa  d to  S qua"i  7 aS  u f ltS  S0’id  contents'  In  large  and  continued  doses  it 
is  said  to  occasion  renal  catarrh,  and  even  bloody  urine. 

T ^ile.saldiu^ticus  which  was  formerly  applied  to  this  salt  it  is  justly  entitled  to, 
d there  is  good  reason  to  believe  that,  besides  increasing  the  quantity  of  the  urine 
secreted  it  also  promotes  the  disintegration  and  discharge  with  that  secretion  of  various 
effete  and  noxious  elements.  It  displays  this  virtue  notably  in  chronic  infarctions  of  the 

Ww27COmP7nied  ana,°S°us  congestions  of  the  spleen, , uterus,  and  Jisemor- 

r!l0ldal  vessels,  ana  particularly  in  such  conditions  resulting  from  malarial  poisoning  In 

hvurlTn T’  P"°bably;  must  b®  exPlained  its  virtues  in  gout,  lithiasis,  furuncle,  car- 
buncles, and  various  cutaneous  affections , as  well  as  in  acute  articular  rheumatism  In  the 

anT^n^dlSeiiSe  e"pecla1^  a™  its  virtues  conspicuous  when  it  is  given  in  such  doses 
a d 80  Prf4ue«tly  as  to  render  the  urine  alkaline.  Like  other  forms  of  the  alkaline  treat- 
ent  °1  this  disease  it  essens  the  risk  of  cardiac  complications.  In  this  and  in  other 

bonateTof  A? flkahes  ? “ 6X0688  °f  Uri°  a°id  “ aCtS  in  the  Same  ffianner  as  the  ear- 

bVffiliT!  f0?uS  °1  dr0J>%  diuretic  virtue  is  of  extreme  value.  Most  conspicuouslv 
/• ...  „ ■ b .dr°P-y  f“llowlnS  scarlatina  and  in  other  forms  of  tubular  desquama- 

onVin  PT  • c ,IS  als°  v.el7  useful  in  cardiac  dropsy  and  in  ascites  of  hepatic 

stances  I „ I"fenor  de«rf  18  useful  in  splenic  dropsy  also.  According  to  circum- 
the  title  ! C-  ypb-e  a??oclated  wlth  squill,  digitalis,  parsley,  broom,  dandelion,  etc.  Under 
as  a P°tassium  acetate  has  long  been  employed  in  acute  febrile  affections 

"with  vineo-a r l jj-  raught  ls  lna(l,;  by  saturating  G111.  8 (jij)  of  potassium  carbonate 

Tverv  two8bo’ a"  l,ddlns  Gn\19°  (f3vj>  0f  8weetened  water:  A^ tablespoonful  of  it 

every  two  hours  is  the  proper  dose.  1 

nre^eilbS11  shouldal"ays  {>e  administered  in  a large  quantity  of  liquid,  except  when  it  is 
prescribed  as  a diaphoretic  In  febrile  affections,  as  a sedative,  its  dose  is  Gm.  0.60 

Klt  rUte,art,CU  ar  rheumatism  Gm.  2 (gr.xxx)  may  be  given  every  four  hours. 

tt  dose  raboVut  Gryi6  (IsT  “ ^ 8am°  °r  in  ^ doses'  As  a laxati™ 


POTASSII  BICARBONAS. 


1277 


POTASSII  BICARBONAS,  TJ.  S.,  Br.— Potassium  Bicarbonate. 

Kalium  bicarbonicum , P.  G. ; Kali  carbonicum  acidulum , Bicarbonas  potassicus , s. 

— Bicarbonate  of  potash,  E. ; Bicarbonate  de  potasse,  Fr. ; Kaliumbicarbonat , Doppelt- 
kohlensaures  Kali,  G. 

Formula  KHC03.  Molecular  weight  99.88. 

Preparation. — This  salt  was  first  prepared  by  Cartheuser  (1757)  from  potash  and 
ammonium  carbonate.  Cavendish  originated  the  process  which  is  still  used,  acting  with 
carbon  dioxide  upon  a solution  of  the  carbonate. 

The  Br.  Ph.  (1867)  directed  a solution  of  potassium  carbonate  in  twice  its  weight  of 
distilled  water  to  be  treated  with  a continuous  supply  of  carbon  dioxide,  generated  from 
marble,  for  a week,  at  the  end  of  which  time  the  crystals  of  bicarbonate  are  removed  : the 
mother-liquor  upon  concentration  will  yield  more  crystals. 

Potassium  carbonate,  kept  in  flat,  open  vessels  in  localities  where  saccharine  liquids 
are  undergoing  vinous  fermentation,  is  gradually  converted  into  bicarbonate.  The  same 
salt  is  also  obtained  on  passing  carbon  dioxide  over  the  moist  carbonate.  For  prepar- 
ing it  on  a small  scale  a rather  concentrated  solution  of  potassium  carbonate  in  water 
is  made,  into  which  carbon  dioxide  is  conducted.  1 molecule  of  this  gas  unites  with  1 
molecule  each  of  potassium  carbonate  and  water,  forming  2 molecules  of  the  bicarbonate, 
thus  : K2C03  + H20  -f-  C02  = 2KHC03.  The  bicarbonate  being  less  soluble  in  water  than 
the  carbonate,  a portion  of  it  crystallizes  out,  the  crystals  being  larger  if  they  form  slowly. 
To  accomplish  this  the  British  Pharmacopoeia  (1867)  directs  a peculiar  arrangement  of 
the  apparatus,  by  means  of  which  the  generation  of  carbon  dioxide  is  regulated  by  the 
rapidity  with  which  it  is  absorbed  by  the  solution,  an  excess  of  it  remaining  in  the  appara- 
tus, displacing  the  acid  liquid  from  the  bottle  containing  the  marble,  thereby  completely 
stopping  the  further  generation  of  the  gas  until  after  partial  absorption  has  taken  place. 
When  somewhat  larger  quantities  of  the  salt  are  to  be  prepared,  it  is  convenient  to  divide 
the  solution  among  three  or  more  vessels  and  pass  the  gas  successively  through  them.  In 
all  cases  the  delivery-tube  of  the  gas  dipping  into  the  solution  should  be  of  large  bore, 
and  preferably  widened  in  the  shape  of  a funnel ; which  precaution  will  prevent  the 
closing  of  the  tube  by  the  crystallizing  bicarbonate.  Since  the  commercial  potassium 
carbonate  is  usually  contaminated  with  silicate,  silica  is  separated  by  the  carbon  dioxide 
in  the  form  of  floccula,  and  may  afterward  be  removed  by  agitating  the  crystals  with 
cold  water  and  decanting  the  liquid  with  the  suspended  silica.  The  remaining  solution 
is  then  filtered  and  evaporated,  or  the  liquid  may  be  heated  to  a temperature  not  exceed- 
ing 60°  C.  (140°  F.)  until  the  crystals  are  dissolved,  then  rapidly  filtered  while  warm, 
and,  if  necessary,  further  concentrated  at  the  temperature  mentioned,  and  set  aside  to 
crystallize.  The  complete  saturation  of  the  solution  with  carbon  dioxide  is  conveniently 
ascertained,  according  to  Hirsch,  by  means  of  a very  dilute  solution  of  barium  chloride, 
which  yields  no  precipitate  in  the  cold  with  bicarbonate,  but  at  once  a white  one 
with  potassium  carbonate.  The  crystals  should  be  drained  and  dried  at  the  ordinary 
temperature. 

Properties. — Potassium  bicarbonate  crystallizes  in  transparent,  colorless,  mono- 
clinic prisms,  which  are  permanent  in  the  air,  inodorous,  and  have  a saline  and  slightly 
alkaline,  but  not  a caustic,  taste.  When  heated  to  near  200°  C.  (392°  F.)  it  gives  off 
carbon  dioxide  and  water,  suffering  a loss  of  31  per  cent.  The  salt  is  very  sparingly  solu- 
ble in  alcohol,  and  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  dissolves  in  3.2  (ZX  $.),  4 ( P . G .)  parts  of  water, 
or  in  1.9  parts  at  50°  C.  (122°  F.),  (ZX  $.).  According  to  Poggiale,  100  parts  of  water 
dissolve  at  10°  C.  (50°  F.)  23.23  parts,  at  20°  C.  (68°  F.)  26.91  parts,  and  at  60°  0. 
(140°  F.)  41.35  parts  of  the  salt;  the  solution  has  a slight  alkaline  reaction  to  test- 
paper,  effervesces  briskly  on  the  addition  of  acids,  yields  with  an  excess  of  tartaric  acid  a 
white  crystalline  precipitate  of  potassium  bitartrate,  and  loses  carbon  dioxide  slowly  when 
evaporated  in  vacuo,  and  rapidly  when  heated  to  the  boiling-point.  5 Gm.  of  the  salt 
exposed  to  a low  red  heat  leave  3.45  Gm.  of  a white  residue  consisting  of  potassium 
carbonate,  which  requires  for  exact  neutralization  50  Cc.  of  the  volumetric  solution  of 
oxalic  acid.  20  grains  of  potassium  bicarbonate  neutralize  14  grains  of  citric  acid  or  15 
grains  of  tartaric  acid. — Br.  A less  pure  potassium  bicarbonate  in  a pulverulent  state  is 
met  with  in  commerce  under  the  name  of  sal  seratus , but  much  sold  as  such  is  sodium 
bicarbonate. 

Tests. — The  presence  of  potassium  carbonate  causes  the  bicarbonate  to  become 
moist  on  exposure,  and  its  solution  in  cold  water  to  yield  a white  precipitate  with  magne- 


1278 


POTASSII  BICARBONAS. 


sium  sulphate  and  a yellow  or  brick-red  one  with  corrosive  sublimate ; the  latter  reagent 
produces  a white  precipitate  with  pure  potassium  bicarbonate.  “ A solution  of  0.5  Gun. 
of  potassium  bicarbonate  in  10  Cc.  of  water  should  not  at  once  be  colored  red  by  1 
drop  of  phenolphtalein  test-solution  (limit  of  carbonate).  Having  dissolved  2.5  Gm. 
of  the  salt  in  30  Cc.  of  diluted  acetic  acid,  and  made  up  the  volume  to  50  Cc.  with 
water,  use  10  Cc.  for  each  of  the  following  tests : The  addition  of  0.3  Cc.  of  potassium 
ferrocyanide  test-solution  to  a portion  should  not  produce  a blue  color  within  fifteen 
minutes  (limit  of  iron).  After  adding  a few  drops  of  nitric  acid  and  0.1  Cc.  of  deci- 
normal  silver  nitrate  solution  to  another  portion,  and  filtering,  the  further  addition  of 
silver  solution  should  not  affect  the  filtrate  (limit  of  chloride).  To  neutralize  1 Gm. 
of  potassium  bicarbonate  should  require  10  Cc.  of  normal  sulphuric  acid  (correspond- 
ing to  100  per  cent,  of  the  pure  salt),  methyl-orange  being  used  as  indicator.” — 

U.  S. 

Metallic  salts,  if  present  as  impurities,  remain  behind  on  dissolving  the  salt  in  water, 
or  are  indicated  by  producing  a precipitate  on  the  addition  of  hydrogen  sulphide.  Sodium 
salts  present  as  impurities  will  impart  an  intense  yellow  color  to  a non-luminous  flame. 
The  complete  solubility  of  the  salt  in  4 parts  of  cold  water  excludes  notable  quantities  of 
sodium  bicarbonate. 

Composition. — Potassium  bicarbonate  represents  47  per  cent.  K20,  44  per  cent. 
C02,  and  9 per  cent.  H20. 

Action  and  Uses. — Potassium  bicarbonate  increases  the  quantity  of  the  urine 
and  renders  it  alkaline.  The  very  interesting  experiments  of  Balfe  (1878)  show  that 
when  taken  on  an  empty  stomach  the  acidity  of  the  urine  on  the  day  of  administra- 
tion is  only  slightly  depressed,  while  on  the  day  following  the  acidity  is  considerably 
higher  than  on  the  day  before  the  salt  was  taken.  But  when  it  is  administered  during 
the  process  of  digestion  the  acidity  of  the  urine  entirely  disappears.  This  fact  is 
readily  explained  by  the  different  conditions  of  the  stomach  when  it  is  empty  and  when 
it  contains  food.  In  the  former  case  the  acid  salt  is  received  into  the  stomach  when  its 
secretions  are  either  neutral  or  alkaline,  and  is  absorbed  undecomposed  into  the  blood ; 
but  when,  on  the  other  hand,  it  is  taken  during  digestion,  the  acid  contents  of  the  stom- 
ach decompose  it,  carbon  dioxide  is  liberated,  and  escapes  by  the  mouth,  while  the  alka- 
line base  passes  into  the  system  and  causes  the  urine  to  assume  an  alkaline  reaction. 
This  explanation  is,  of  course,  as  applicable  to  the  sodium  as  to  the  potassium  bicar- 
bonate. This  salt  in  ordinary  doses  of  Gm.  0.60-1  (gr.  x-xv)  does  not  appreciably  affect 
the  biliary  secretion  (Butherford). 

In  the  manner  now  described  potassium  bicarbonate  dissolves  and  eliminates  an 
excess  of  uric  acid  in  the  system.  Even  when  stone  actually  exists  in  the  bladder,  it 
lessens  the  irritability  of  the  organ,  diminishing  the  pain  and  the  necessity  of  frequent 
urination.  However  theoretical  inductions  may  favor  the  opinion  that  all  potassium 
salts  operate  as  diuretics,  clinical  observation  does  not  support  this  view  in  regard  to  the 
bicarbonate.  Doubtless,  also,  its  primary  action  in  the  primse  vise  is  to  neutralize  the 
excessive  acidity  of  their  contents,  and  thus,  from  the  start,  to  prevent  irritation  of  the 
nervous  system.  In  jaundice  depending  upon  high  living  or  upon  malarial  poisoning,  with 
enlargement  of  the  liver,  dyspeptic  symptoms,  constipation,  and  scanty  and  turbid  urine, 
it  is  of  signal  advantage.  In  all  of  these  cases  its  virtues  probably  depend  upon 
its  power  of  increasing  the  alkalinity  of  the  blood  and  rendering  the  secretions  more 
liquid.  In  cutaneous  eruptions  depending  upon,  or  connected  with,  the  previously  men- 
tioned conditions  its  virtues  are  unquestionable.  Although  sodium  bicarbonate  is  more 
generally  employed  than  the  potassium  salt  in  the  treatment  of  diabetes , the  latter  is 
nevertheless  of  great  utility,  and  is  by  some  authorities  preferred,  as  promoting  more 
effectually  the  elimination  of  uric  acid.  It  is  prescribed  in  doses  of  Gm.  2-4  (gr.  xxx- 
lx)  in  twenty-four  hours,  dissolved  in  about  3 pints  of  water,  which  should  be  taken 
partly  at  intervals  during  and  after  meals  with  red  wine.  The  natural  mineral  waters 
which  are  most  efficient  in  diabetes  contain,  however,  a large  proportion  of  the  sodium 
salt  and  but  little  or  none  of  the  potassium  bicarbonate.  As  a general  rule,  it  may  be 
stated,  according  to  Balfe,  that  in  cases  of  acid  dyspepsia  arising  from  the  excessive 
formation  of  acid  within  the  system,  as  in  lithgemia,  the  alkaline  bicarbonates  should  not 
be  administered  before  food,  but  after,  and  that  their  administration  before  meals  is 
indicated  in  those  cases  only  where  free  acid  is  formed  in  the  stomach  itself,  the  result  of 
fermentative  changes  of  undigested  food  or  morbid  mucus,  and  when  it  is  necessary 
to  diminish  the  high  degree  of  acidity  thus  caused  in  order  to  permit  digestion  to  be 
properly  performed. 


POTASSII  BICHROMAS. 


1279 


POTASSII  BICHROMAS,  IT,  S,,  Br. — Potassium  Dichromate 

(Bichromate). 

Kalium  dichromicum , P.  G. ; Bichromas  kalicvs. — Bichromate  of  potash , E.  ; Bichro- 
mate de  potasse , Fr. ; Kaliumdichromat , Doppeltchromsaures  Kali , G. 

Formula  K2Cr207.  Molecular  weight  293.78. 

Origin. — The  metal  chromium  was  discovered  by  Vauquelin  in  1797  in  a Siberian 
mineral  which  is  composed  of  lead  chromate,  but  it  is  more  abundantly  found  as  chrome 
iron  ore , which  is  a compound  of  chromic  and  ferrous  oxides,  Fe0.Cr203.  It  is  met  with 
in  several  localities  in  the  United  States,  in  Russia,  and  in  Sweden,  and  is  used  in  prepar- 
ing the  dichromate. 

Preparation. — The  finely-ground  chrome-iron  ore,  mixed  with  potassium  carbonate 
and  calcium  hydroxide  or  carbonate,  is  roasted  in  a reverbatory  furnace,  which  causes 
the  separation  of  all  iron  in  the  form  of  ferric  oxide  and  the  production  of  potassium 
chromate  from  the  newly-formed  chromic  acid  ; lime  or  chalk  is  added  simply  to  prevent 
fusion  of  the  mixture.  The  following  equation  explains  the  reaction : 2Fe0Cr203  -f- 
4K2C03  + 07  = Fe203  + 4K2Cr04  -f-  4C02.  After  the  roasting  or  oxidation  has  been 
completed  the  mass  is  lixiviated  with  water,  which  dissolves  the  yellow  potassium  chro- 
mate; the  latter  salt,  upon  addition  of  sulphuric  acid,  yields  potassium  dichromate  and 
sulphate,  the  two  salts  being  separated  by  crystallization  : 2K2Cr04  + H2S04  ==  K2Cr207 
-f  K2S04  + H20.  In  order  to  explain  the  constitution  of  dichromates  it  must  be 
assumed  that  chromic  anhydride  is  capable  of  forming  two  acids — namely,  Cr03  -f  H20 
= H2Cr04,  chromic  acid,  and  2Cr03  -f-  H20  = H2Cr207,  dichromic  acid. 

Properties. — Potassium  dichromate  crystallizes  in  large  yellowish-red  transparent 
four-sided  prisms  or  plates,  which  are  inodorous  and  are  not  altered  on  exposure.  The 
salt  melts  below  a red  heat  to  a transparent  d*ark  brown-red  liquid,  which  on  cooling 
crystallizes  and  finally  falls  into  a crystalline  powder.  At  a white  heat  the  salt  is  decom- 
posed into  oxygen  gas,  green  chromic  oxide,  and  yellow  potassium  chromate,  which  may 
be  separated  by  dissolving  the  latter  in  water.  Potassium  dichromate  is  insoluble  in 
alcohol ; it  is  soluble  in  water,  1 part  of  the  salt  requiring 


at  0° 

10° 

20° 

40° 

60° 

o 

C 

00 

100° 

C., 

20.14 

11.81 

7.65 

3.43 

1.98 

1.37 

0.98 

parts  of 

water  (Kremers) ; 

21.76 

13.51 

8.06 

3.86 

2.22 

1.46 

1.06 

u 

(Alluard). 

The  U.  S.  and  Germ.  Pharmacopoeias  give  the  solubility  in  water  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  as  1 
in  10  and  as  1 in  1.5  parts  of  boiling  water.  The  solution  has  an  orange-red  color,  an 
acid  reaction,  and  a bitter  styptic,  metallic  taste,  and  is  deoxidized, 
with  the  formation  of  chromic  oxide  or  chromic  salts,  on  the  addition 
of  hydrogen  sulphide,  sulphurous  acid,  or  of  sulphuric  acid  and 
alcohol,  or  other  organic  matters.  Heated  with  hydrochloric  acid, 
chlorine  is  given  off.  The  solution  yields  a pale-yellow  precipitate 
with  barium  chloride,  a yellow  one  with  lead  acetate,  and  a purplish- 
red  one  with  silver  nitrate,  the  three  precipitates  being  soluble  in 
nitric  acid.  With  a cold  saturated  solution  of  sodium  bitartrate  a 
white  crystalline  precipitate  of  potassium  bitartrate  is  produced. 

Tests. — As  met  with  in  commerce,  the  salt  is  usually  pure.  Its 
solution  in  100  parts  of  water  should  not  be  precipitated  on  the  addi- 
tion of  excess  of  potassium  carbonate  (absence  of  calcium  salt),  and 
after  having  been  acidulated  with  nitric  acid  should  not  be  disturbed 
by  barium  chloride  (absence  of  sulphates)  or  by  silver  nitrate  (chlo- 
rides). 

Composition. — The  salt  is  free  from  water,  and  represents  31.86 
per  cent.  K20  and  68.14  per  cent.  Cr03 ; it  may  be  regarded  as  a compound  of  chromic 
anhydride  with  potassium  chromate  = K2Cr04.Cr03,  or  as  the  neutral  salt  of  dichromic 
add,  H2Cr207,  which  is  not  known  in  the  uncombined  state. 

Other  Chromates. — Potassium  Chromate,  K2Cr04;  molecular  weight  193.9.  It  is  obtained 
by  adding  potassium  carbonate  to  a hot  solution  of  the  dichromate  as  long  as  effervescence  is 
observed ; the  solution  changes  in  color  to  yellow,  and  yields  on  evaporation  six-sided  lemon- 
yellow  crystals,  which  may  be  fused  without  decomposition  and  dissolve  in  less  than  2 parts  of 
water,  the  solution  having  an  alkaline  reaction.  It  is  employed  as  a reagent. 

Lead  Chromate,  PbCr04,  the  well-known  pigment  known  as  chrome-yellow , Paris  yellow , or 
lemon-chrome,  is  obtained  by  precipitating  the  solution  of  a lead  salt  with  potassium  chromate 


Fro.  227. 


Crystal  of  Potassium 
Dichromate. 


1280 


POTASSII  BITARTRAS. 


or  dichromate.  It  contains  68.9  per  cent,  of  lead  oxide  and  31.1  per  cent  of  chromic  anhv 

one^halfof  hT  h dlgG.Sted  dll.ute  soJution  of  potassa  or  with  potassium  chromate,  it  parts  with 
Z Tth  li0  its  chromic  acid,  leaving  a bright  red  basic  compound,  which,  either  pure  or  mTxed 
0 j 01  less  chrome-yellow,  is  used  as  a pigment  under  the  names  of  American  vermilion 
miXtUre  0f  and  Prussian  blue  in  various^ 


Pharmaceutical  Uses.— Ill  the  preparation  of  chromic  acid,  valerianic  acid,  and 
dissolved  in  water,  as  a test  liquid.  ’ ’ 

Action  and  Uses  — A man  after  swallowing  3 drachms  of  potassium  dichromate 
was  seized  with  vomiting  purging,  and  severe  abdominal  pains.  The  whole  body  was 
and  ’the  sh™eUed  and  5 the  face  also  was  dusky;  the  breath  was  cold 

i ^ ll  feeb  G'  Tl-e  mouth  and  throat  were  dark,  thick,  bloody  mucus  was  vom- 

ited, the  thirst  was  excessive,  the  pulse  feeble  and  frequent,  the  respiration  hurried  and 

SentUri881WaS  Sq^^i  f?r  Be/eral  ^ The  patient  recovered  News  and  Abst , 

a a ii P'  Pa?ck  refers  t0  four  cases  of  poisoning  by  this  salt,  of  which  two 

ended  fatally  the  doses  in  the  fatal  cases  being  respectively  8 and  15  Gm.  (3ij  and  3iv) 

880,-u'i  1441‘  .Potaf  mm  dichromate,  applied  topically,  acts  like  chromic 
amd  but  more  mildly.  It  should  therefore  be  preferred  where  the  full  escharotic  action 
ot  the  acid  is  not  required.  We  have  known  it  to  act  decidedly  as  a caustic  upon  the 
elicate  integument  behind  the  corona  glandis  when  applied  for  the  removal  of  venereal 
warts.  Ordinary  warts  of  the  softer  sort  may  generally  be  destroyed  by  it.  Drysdale 
recommends  1 part  of  potassium  dichromate  and  9 parts  of  sugar  of  milk  to  be  applied 
after  the  evulsion  of  polypi,  and  a solution  of  2 grains  in  an  ounce  of  water  and  half 
°Uinfe  °f  g4Cemi  for  ulcerated  sore  throat  and  for  enlarged  glands.  It  has  been 
thought  useful  in  progressive  spinal  paralysis  and  in  certain  ill-defined  cases  of  chronic 
dyspepsia  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.005-0.01  (JL  to  1 gr.). 


POTASSII  BITARTRAS,  77.  S, — Potassium  Bitartrate. 

Potassn  tartras  acida , Br.  ; Tartarus  depuratus , P.  G. ; Cremor  tartari,  Kali  bitartan- 
cum,  JUtartras  potassicus  s.  kalicus.—Acid  tartrate  of  potash,  Cream  of  tartar , E.  • Bitar- 
trate depotasse,  Creme  de  tartre , Pierre  de  vin,  Fr.  ; Weinstein,  G. 

Formula  KHC4H406.  Molecular  weight  187.67. 
i "^k(dd  P°fassium  tartrate  is  contained  in  many  acidulous  fruits,  but  is  col- 

ected  altogether  from  the  juice  of  the  grape,  in  which  it  becomes  insoluble  after  fermenta- 
tion and  is  deposited  in  the  casks  in  crystalline  crusts.  These  form  the  crude  tartar  or 
argot,  and  consist  of  potassium  bitartrate,  with  calcium  tartrate,  coloring  and  extractive  ( 
matters,  and  yeast  and  other  vegetable  fragments.  Red  argot  is  deposited  from  red  wines,  1 
and  has  a brownish-red  color;  white  argot,  obtained  from  white  wines,  is  gray  or  brownish-  ) 
white,  ( rude  tartar  is  not  used  medicinally,  and  little  is  collected  in  the  United  States  ; -• 
but  the  importation  of  it  has  increased  from  6,965,015  pounds  in  1876  to  18,313,544  j 
pounds  in  1882,  while  in  the  same  years  the  importation  of  refined  and  partly-refined 
tartar  has  decreased  from  2,582,651  to  82,887  pounds,  and  to  26,448  pounds  in  1883. 

Purinca/bion.  -Crude  tartar  is  boiled  with  water,  much  of  the  coloring  matter  pre- 
ciphated  by  the  addition  of  clay,  the  liquid  filtered  through  animal  charcoal  or  otherwise 
clanhed,  and  crystallized.  The  operation  has  to  be  repeated  several  times.  The  amount 
of  calcium  tartrate  contained  in  crude  tartar  varies  between  about  5 and  15  per  cent. 
Although  this  salt  is  insoluble  in  water,  it  dissolves  to  some  extent  (more  in  hot  than  in 
cold)  solutions  of  tartrates  ; hence  it  cannot  be  completely  removed  from  cream  of  tartar 
by  simple  recrystallization.  However,  the  crystals  forming  on  the  side  of  the  crystalliz- 
ing-vats  contain  less  of  this  impurity  than  the  crusts  deposited  at  the  bottom,  and  by 
careful  management  the  amount  may  be  reduced  to  about  3 per  cent,  or  less. 

o obtain  it  ft ee  from  calcium  salt,  finely-powdered  cream  of  tartar  is  macerated  for 
twenty-  our  hours  with  8 or  10  per  cent,  of  hydrochloric  acid,  previously  diluted  with 
water  or  it  is  dissolved  in  boiling  water,  the  same  amount  of  hydrochloric  acid  added, 
and  the  solution  continually  stirred  while  it  cools.  The  mother-liquor  is  drained  off,  the 
ciysta  me  powder  washed  with  cold  water,  and  dried.  A considerable  proportion  of 
potassium  bitartrate  remains  in  the  mother-liquor,  and  may  be  utilized  in  the  preparation 
ot  tartaric  acid  by  neutralizing  it  with  lime,  when  calcium  tartrate  is  deposited. 

Properties.  When  a hot  solution  of  potassium  bitartrate  is  rapidly  cooled  the  salt 
separates  in  very  small  crystals,  which  float  on  the  liquid,  and  from  this  behavior  it  has 
leceived  the  name  cream  of  tartar.  The  larger  crystals,  which  are  deposited,  were 


POTASSII  BITARTRAS. 


1281 


formerly  distinguished  as  crystalli  tartari.  They  are  rhombic  prisms,  and  quite  pure,  are 
colorless,  but  as  usually  seen  are  more  or  less  opaque  from  the  presence  of  calcium  tar- 
trate. But  in  this  form  it  is  rarely  kept  in  the  shops,  where  it  is  almost  exclusively 
employed  in  the  form  of  powder.  This  is  white,  somewhat  gritty,  not  altered  on  expos- 
ure. inodorous,  and  has  a pleasant  acidulous  taste  and  distinct  acid  reaction.  Potassium 
bitartrate  requires  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  201  ( U.  $.),  192  (P.  G .)  parts,  and  at  100°  C. 
(212°  F.)  10.7  &),  20  (P.  6r.)  parts,  of  water  for  solution;  it  is  freely  soluble,  with 

the  formation  of  neutral  salts,  in  ammonia  and  potassa  solution,  and  in  solution  of  alkali 
carbonates,  with  the  evolution  of  carbon  dioxide.  It  is  insoluble  in  alcohol,  is  more 
soluble  in  dilute  hydrochloric  acid  than  in  water,  and  is  precipitated  from  this  solution 
by  alcohol ; the  solutions  in  dilute  sulphuric  and  nitric  acids,  however,  when  mixed  with 
alcohol,  deposit  potassium  sulphate  and  nitrate.  The  solutions  in  alkaline  liquids  again 
deposit  the  salt  on  being  sufficiently  acidulated  with  hydrochloric,  acetic,  or  other  acid. 
In  the  aqueous  solution  of  the  salt,  rendered  neutral  by  potassium  or  sodium  hydroxide 
test-solution,  silver  nitrate  test-solution  produces  a white  precipitate  which,  on  boiling, 
becomes  black  by  the  separation  of  metallic  silver.  If,  before  boiling,  enough  ammonia- 
water  be  added  to  dissolve  the  white  precipitate,  the  metal  will,  on  boiling,  form  a mirror 
on  the  sides  of  the  test-tube.  When  heated  in  a crucible  it  evolves  inflammable  gas  and 
the  odor  of  burnt  sugar,  and  leaves  a black  residue  known  as  black  flux , which  is  a 
mixture  of  potassium  carbonate  and  charcoal ; the  latter  is  finally  consumed  on  continu- 
ing the  ignition  with  free  access  of  air,  leaving  potassium  carbonate  or  white  flux.  These 
fluxes  are  often  made  by  deflagration  of  intimate  mixtures  of  2 parts  of  cream  of  tartar 
with  potassium  nitrate,  using  1 part  of  the  latter  for  the  black  and  4 parts  for  obtaining 
the  white  flux.  On  subjecting  potassium  bitartrate  to  destructive  distillation,  carbon 
dioxide,  carbonic  oxide,  and  various  hydrocarbons  are  obtained  in  the  gaseous  state ; also 
an  aqueous  liquid  containing  much  acetic  acid,  a sublimate  of  pyrotartaric  acid,  various 
tarry  products,  and  in  the  retort  potassium  carbonate. 

Tests. — When  potassium  bitartrate  is  treated  with  a hot  solution  of  potassa,  whatever 
remains  undissolved  is  impurity.  In  this  way  only  the  coarser  adulterations,  such  as 
terra  alba  (see  p.  349),  sand,  etc.,  or  calcium  tartrate  if  present  as  impurity  to  a consider- 
able extent,  can  be  detected.  Cream  of  tartar  has  been  adulterated  with  gypsum,  chalk, 
alum,  amylaceous  substances  (stale  bread,  etc.).  These  substances  are  best  detected  by 
treating  0.5  Gm.  of  the  powder  with  3 Cc.  of  ammonia-water,  wherein  it  should  be  com- 
pletely soluble,  and  the  solution  should  not  be  precipitated  by  hydrogen  sulphide  (absence 
of  copper,  iron,  etc.).  The  residue  left  by  ammonia  will  acquire  a blue  color  on  the 
addition  of  iodine  if  starch  is  present ; cold  dilute  hydrochloric  acid  added  to  the  residue 
will  leave  terra  alba,  starch,  and  some  gypsum  undissolved,  and  produce  effervescence  if 
chalk  is  present.  The  acid  solution,  mixed  with  an  excess  of  ammonium  or  sodium 
acetate,  should  not  yield  white  precipitates  with  ferric  chloride  (phosphates),  ammonia 
(alumina),  or  ammonium  carbonate  (calcium  salt).  Chlorides  and  sulphates  are  most 
conveniently  detected  in  the  aqueous  solution  of  cream  of  tartar,  which,  after  addition 
of  a few  drops  of  nitric  acid,  should  not  be  precipitated  by  barium  nitrate  (sulphates)  or 
silver  nitrate  (chlorides).  “ 204  grains  heated  to  redness  till  gas  ceases  to  be  evolved 
leave  an  alkaline  residue,  which  requires  for  exact  neutralization  at  least  1000  grain- 
measures  of  the  volumetric  solution  of  oxalic  acid.” — Br.  This  test  proves  the  absence 
of  more  than  7.8  per  cent,  of  admixtures  and  impurities.  “If  1.2  Gm.  of  potassium 
bitartrate  be  repeatedly  agitated,  during  half  an  hour,  with  a mixture  of  5 Cc.  of  acetic 
acid  and  1 Cc.  of  water,  and  the  mixture  then  diluted  with  30  Cc.  of  water,  and  filtered, 
the  clear  filtrate  should  not  be  rendered  turbid,  within  one  minute,  by  the  addition  of 
0.5  Cc.  of  ammonium  oxalate  test-solution  (limit  of  calcium  salt).  No  odor  of  ammonia 
should  be  evolved  on  heating  the  salt  with  a slight  excess  of  potassium  or  sodium 
hydroxide  test-solution.  If  1.88  Gm.  of  potassium  bitartrate  be  thoroughly  ignited 
at  a red  heat,  it  should  require  for  complete  neutralization  not  less  than  9.9  Cc. 
of  normal  sulphuric-acid  solution  (each  Cc.  corresponding  to  10  per  cent,  of  the 
pure  salt),  methyl  orange  being  used  as  an  indicator.”- — U.  S.  The  German  Phar- 
macopoeia permits  the  presence  of  traces  of  chloride  and  of  not  more  than  ] per  cent, 
of  calcium  tartrate.  For  the  detection  of  the  latter  it  has  adopted  the  test  proposed  by 
Biltz : 1 Gm.  of  the  salt  is  repeatedly  agitated  and  macerated  for  half  an  hour  with  5 Cc. 
of  acidum  aceticum  dilutum  ; then  dilute  with  25  Ce.  of  distilled  water,  and  the  filtrate  is 
mixed  with  8 drops  of  test-solution  of  ammonium  oxalate,  when  it  should  not  become 
cloudy  in  less  than  one  minute  ( P . 6r.).  The  diluted  acetic  acid  (P.  G.)  is  nearly  identical 
with  the  acetic  acid  (I/i  Si).  In  the  above,  test  with  8 drops  of  ammonium  oxalate 
81 


1282 


POTASSII  BROMIDUM. 


solution  a turbidity  beginning  after  one-half,  one,  or  two  minutes  indicates  respectively 
i,  i,  or  i per  cent,  of  calcium  tartrate. 

Composition. — Potassium  bitartrate  does  not  contain  any  water  of  crystallization. 
Each  molecule  contains  1 atom  of  potassium,  and  25  per  cent,  of  its  weight  is  represented 
by  K20,  and  on  ignition  36.7  per  cent,  of  K2C03  is  left. 

Action  and  Uses. — In  full  doses  potassium  bitartrate  is  refrigerant,  laxative,  and 
diuretic : the  last  operation,  however,  is  more  evident  after  small  doses  given  in  a large 
proportion  of  water.  It  is  apt  to  disturb  digestion  by  causing  flatulence  and  griping, 
and,  when  long  continued,  to  impair  nutrition.  In  excessive  doses  it  may  act  poisonously, 
causing  vomiting,  purging,  thirst,  colic,  and  great  exhaustion,  even  to  paralysis,  which 
may  terminate  fatally. 

In  febrile  diseases  a weak  solution  of  the  salt  moderates  vascular  excitement  and  aug- 
ments the  secretion  of  urine.  For  this  purpose  it  is  conveniently  dissolved  in  lemonade. 
As  a purgative  it  is  frequently  associated  with  sulphur,  magnesia,  or  jalap.  With  sul- 
phur or  with  confection  of  senna  it  forms  a convenient  laxative  in  case  of  haemorrhoids. 
With  jalap  it  is  often  used  as  a hydragogue  cathartic  in  dropsy , and  especially  in  anasarca, 
and  as  a diuretic  in  the  same  disease  dissolved  in  an  infusion  of  juniper-berries.  With 
magnesia  it  has  been  recommended  in  habitual  vomiting  arising  from  gastric  acidity,  and 
in  pregnancy. 

The  dose  of  potassium  bitartrate,  as  a cathartic,  is  from  Gm.  16-32  (^ss-j)  ; as  a 
diuretic,  Gm.  4-8  (^j-ij)  in  water,  largely  diluted  and  taken  in  divided  doses.  For  the 
same  purpose  whey  may  be  employed,  prepared  by  adding  Gm.  8 (^ij)  of  the  salt  to 
a pint  of  milk. 

POTASSII  BROMIDUM,  V.  8.,  Br.— Potassium  Bromide. 

Kalium  bromatum , P.  G. ; Bromuretum  potassicum  s.  kalicum. — Bromure  de  potassium, 
Fr.  ; BromJcalium , Kaliumbromid , G. 

Formula  KBr.  Molecular  weight  118.79. 

Preparation. — Combine  2 ounces  of  bromine  with  suflicient  iron  (1  ounce)  in  the 
presence  of  24  ounces  of  water  until  a green  solution  is  obtained ; filter,  add  solution  of 
2i  ounces  of  pure  potassium  carbonate  in  24  ounces  of  water  until  it  ceases  to  produce 
a precipitate ; heat  the  mixture  for  half  an  hour ; filter,  wash  the  precipitate  with  hot 
water,  evaporate  the  filtrate,  and  crystallize. — U.  S.  1870.  Take  of  solution  of  potash 
2 pints ; bromine  4 fluidounces  or  a sufficiency ; wood-charcoal,  in  fine  powder,  2 ounces ; 
boiling  distilled  water  1\  pints.  Put  the  solution  of  potash  into  a glass  or  porcelain  ves- 
sel, and  add  the  bromine  in  successive  portions,  with  constant  agitation,  until  the  mixture 
has  acquired  a permanent  brown  tint.  Evaporate  to  dryness,  reduce  the  residue  to  a fine 
powder,  and  mix  this  intimately  with  the  charcoal.  Throw  the  mixture  in  small  quanti- 
ties at  a time  into  a red-hot  iron  crucible,  and  when  the  whole  has  been  brought  to  a state 
of  fusion  remove  the  crucible  from  the  fire  and  pour  out  its  contents.  When  the  fused 
mass  has  cooled  dissolve  it  in  the  water,  filter  the  solution  through  paper,  and  set  it  aside 
to  crystallize.  Drain  the  crystals  and  dry  them  with  a gentle  heat.  More  crystals  may 
be  obtained  by  evaporating  the  mother-liquor  and  cooling.  The  salt  should  be  kept  in 
a stoppered  bottle. — Br. 

In  the  first  process  ferrous  bromide  is  formed  by  the  action  of  bromine  upon  iron,  and 
the  solution  of  this  salt,  which  is  of  a green  color,  is  decomposed  by  potassium  carbonate, 
resulting  in  the  production  of  potassium  bromide,  which  remains  in  solution,  and  ol  a 
white  precipitate  of  ferrous  carbonate  ; FeBr2  -f-  K2C03  yields  2KBr  -f-  FeC03.  The  latter 
is  very  bulky,  but  by  boiling  it  for  some  time  is  converted  into  a denser  ferric  hydroxide, 
which  is  more  readily  washed  out  with  water  than  the  carbonate.  On  concentrating  the 
filtrate,  crystals  of  potassium  bromide  are  obtained. 

On  adding  bromine  to  solution  of  potassa,  5 molecules  of  potassium  bromide  and  1 of 
bromate  are  produced  ; 3Br2  -|-  6KOII  yields  5KBr  -f  KBr03  -f-  3H20.  By  evaporating 
the  solution  to  dryness,  mixing  the  salts  with  charcoal,  and  heating  to  redness,  the  bromate 
is  deoxidized  to  bromide,  while  the  oxygen  unites  with  the  charcoal,  forming  carbonic 
oxide,  which  escapes  ; KBr03  C3  yields  KBr  -f-  3CO.  Dissolving  in  water  and  concen- 
trating the  solution  will  yield  the  bromide  in  crystals.  Instead  of  deoxidizing  with  char- 
coal, the  same  result  may  be  attained  by  passing  hydrogen  sulphide  through  the  solution, 
when  the  hydrogen  of  the  latter  will  unite  with  the  oxygen  of  the  bromate,  forming 
water,  while  sulphur  is  liberated  and  requires  to  be  separated  by  filtration  ; KBr03  -f-  3H28 
yields  KBr  + 3H20  + S,. 


POTASSII  BROMIDUM. 


1283 


On  treating  a solution  of  calcium  bromide  with  potassium  sulphate  and  filtering  from 
the  precipitated  gypsum,  the  liquid  will  yield  potassium  bromide,  requiring  recrystalliza- 
tion for  obtaining  it  pure.  The  salt  is  extensively  manufactured  in  the  United  States. 

Properties. — Pure  potassium  bromide  crystallizes  in  colorless  cubes  which  are  neu- 
tral to  test-paper.  It  is  met  with  in  commerce  in  the  form  of  a granular  crystalline 
powder  or  of  cubical  crystals,  which  are  white  and  glossy,  and,  having  been  obtained 
from  an  alkaline  solution,  have  a slight  alkaline  reaction.  It  is  permanent  in  the  air, 
inodorous,  has  a pungent  saline  taste,  and  when  heated  decrepitates,  melts  at  700°  C. 
(1200°  F.),  and  on  cooling  congeals  again  to  a transparent  mass ; at  a bright  red  or  at  a 
white  heat  it  is  slowly  volatilized  without  decomposition.  According  to  Kremers  (1856), 
1 part  of  this  salt  dissolves  at  0°  C.  (32°  F.)  in  1.87,  at  20°  C.  (68°  F.)  in  1.55,  at  40° 
C.  (140°  F.)  in  1.34,  and  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  in  0.98  part,  of  water.  It  is  soluble,  at 
15°  C.  (59°  F.),  in  about  1.6  parts  of  water  and  in  200  parts  of  alcohol ; in  less  than  1 
part  of  boiling  water,  and  in  16  parts  of  boiling  alcohol ; also  soluble  in  4 parts  of  gly- 
cerin.— U.  S.  The  aqueous  solution  yields  a white  crystalline  precipitate  on  the  addition 
of  tartaric  acid  or  of  a saturated  solution  of  sodium  bitartrate,  and  on  the  addition  of  a 
few  drops  of  chlorine-water  liberates  bromine,  which  dissolves  in  ether,  chloroform,  or 
carbon  disulphide  with  a reddish-yellow  or  brown-yellow  color,  which  in  the  last  two 
solvents  will  have  a violet  tint  if  iodide  be  present.  1 Gm.  of  the  powdered  and  dried 
salt,  when  completely  precipitated  by  silver  nitrate,  yields,  if  perfectly  pure,  1.579  Gm. 
of  dry  silver  bromide. 

Tests. — Crystals  or  fragments  of  the  crystals  of  the  salt  laid  upon  moistened  red 
litmus-paper  should  not  at  once  produce  a violet-blue  stain.  A little  of  the  powdered 
salt  taken  up  with  the  loop  of  a platinum  wire  and  held  in  a non-luminous  flame  should 
at  once  impart  a violet  color  to  the  latter. — -U.  S.,  P.  G.  The  crushed  salt  should  not  at 
once  assume  a yellow  color  with  diluted  sulphuric  acid  (absence  of  bromate). — U.  S., 
P.  G.  If  10  Cc.  of  the  aqueous  solution  (1  in  20)' of  the  salt  be  mixed  with  a little 
starch  test-solution,  the  addition  of  a few  drops  of  chlorine-water  should  not  produce  a 
blue  color  (absence  of  iodine).  10  Cc.  of  the  aqueous  solution  (1  in  12)  should  not  be 
rendered  turbid  by  the  addition  of  0.5  Cc.  of  ammonia-water  and  of  0.5  Cc.  of  ammonium 
sulphide  test-solution  (absence  of  iron,  aluminum,  etc.)  ; nor  should  10  Cc.,  after  being 
slightly  acidulated  by  acetic  acid,  be  rendered  turbid  by  an  equal  volume  of  hydrogen 
sulphide  test-solution  (absence  of  metals)  ; nor  by  0.5  Cc.  of  ammonium  oxalate  test- 
solution  (calcium)  ; nor  by  0.5  Cc.  of  potassium  sulphate  test-solution  (barium)  ; nor  by 
0.5  Cc.  of  barium  chloride  test-solution  (sulphate) ; nor  be  colored  blue  by  0.5  Cc.  of 
potassium  ferrocyanide  test-solution  (iron).  “ If  1 Gm.  of  the  salt  be  dissolved  in  10  Cc. 
of  a mixture  of  100  Cc.  of  water  and  0.2  Cc.  of  normal  sulphuric  acid,  no  red  tint  should 
be  imparted  to  the  solution  by  the  addition  of  a few  drops  of  phenolphtalein  test-solution 
(limit  of  potassium  carbonate).” — U.  S.  If  3 Gm.  of  the  well-dried  salt  be  dissolved  in 
distilled  water  to  make  100  Cc.,  and  10  Cc.  of  this  solution  be  treated  with  a few  drops 
of  test-solution  of  potassium  chromate,  and  then  decinormal  volumetric  solution  of  silver 
nitrate  be  added,  not  less  than  25.14  Cc.  (2?r.),  and  not  more  than  25.5  ( Br .),  25.7  ( TJ.  $.), 
25.4  (P.  G .)  Cc.  of  the  latter  should  be  consumed  before  the  red  color  ceases  to  disappear 
on  stirring.  0.3  Gm.  of  pure  potassium  bromide  would  require  25.25  Cc.  of  the  volumetric 
solution,  while  0.3  Gm.  of  potassium  chloride  would  require  40.32  Cc. ; hence  1 per  cent, 
of  chloride  is  represented  by  each  0.1507  Cc.  of  decinormal  silver  solution  used  in  excess 
of  25.25  Cc.  for  0.3  Gm.  of  the  salt.  To  find  the  percentage  of  chloride  present  in  0.3 
Gm.  of  any  sample,  subtract  25.25  from  the  number  of  Cc.  of  decinormal  silver  solution 
necessary  to  produce  the  permanent  red  color,  and  divide  this  remainder  by  0.1507. 
Thus  we  find  that  while  the  U.  S.  Pharm.  allows  3 per  cent,  of  chloride,  the  Brit.  Pharm. 
places  the  limit  at  1.65  per  cent.,  and  the  Germ.  Pharm.  restricts  the  impurity  of  chloride 
to  1 (0.995)  per  cent.  Since  the  presence  of  iodide  will  decrease  the  amount  of  silver 
solution  necessary  for  complete  precipitation,  the  Br.  Pharm.  requirement  (see  above) 
must  be  considered  as  also  including  this  impurity.  A very  delicate  test  for  chloride  is 
the  following : To  a solution  of  the  salt  are  added  potassium  dichromate  and  sulphuric 
acid,  and  the  mixture  distilled  ; the  distillate  will  contain  chlorocliromic  anhydride , Cr02Cl2, 
and  after  neutralization  with  ammonia  will  have  a yellow  color  and  show  the  reaction  of 
chromates. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  functional  effects  of  potassium  bromide,  manifested 
after  the  prolonged  use  of  the  salt  in  daily  doses  of  from  40  to  120  grains,  are  usually 
such  as  these : The  fetid  odor  of  bromine  upon  the  breath,  redness  of  the  soft  palate, 
and  an  increased  or  diminished  secretion  of  saliva ; diminution,  and  even  abolition,  of 


1284 


POT  A SSI  I B ROM  I BUM. 


the  reflex  sensibility  of  the  palate,  the  root  of  the  tongue,  and  the  epiglottis,  without 
lessened  sensibility  of  those  parts  to  contact  and  to  pain ; frequently  a craving  appetite 
for  food,  but  sometimes  a suspension  of  this  function ; constipation ; some  diuresis  or 
else  arrest  of  the  urinary  secretion ; sedation  or  suppression  of  sexual  desire ; diminution 
and  retardation  of  the  menses ; pulmonary  catarrh  ; a general  heaviness  or  inertness, 
drowsiness,  diminished  clearness  of  the  intellect ; sleep,  which  is  generally  natural,  but 
sometimes  resembles  profound  lethargy  ; sedation  of  the  excito-motor  functions  of  the 
spinal  marrow  and  of  general  sensibility  ; the  memory,  especially  for  words,  is  enfeebled, 
and  they  are  often  strangely  misused ; eruptions,  of  acne  principally,  sometimes  of  ulcers 
or  boils,  impetigo  or  eczema,  appear  upon  the  skin,  which  grows  muddy  or  bronzed. 
The  presence  of  bromine  in  the  pustules  of  acne  has  been  chemically  demonstrated. 
(Compare  Grellety,  Bull,  et  Mem.  Soc.  Therap .,  1887,  p.  31 ; Amidon,  Med.  Record , xxx. 
409  ; Tooth,  Lancet , Apr.  1889,  p.  841.)  In  rare  cases  a form  of  eruption  occurs  in 
infants  which  may  be  described  as  a hypertrophic  or  papillomatous  dermatitis.  The 
eruption  has  been  compared  to  a half-ripe  raspberry  ; the  papules  degenerate,  and,  if 
neglected,  form  sanious  ulcers  (Parker,  Trans.  Clin.  Soc.,  xii.  199  ; Seguin,  Mew  York 
Med.  Record , xxii.  474 ; Carrington,  Trans.  Clin.  Soc.  Lond .,  xviii.  28).  The  muscles  are 
enfeebled  and  their  co-ordinated  movements  imperfect ; the  gait  is  unsteady  and  tottering, 
and  frequently  there  is  a loss  of  flesh.  In  the  more  striking  cases  of  bromism  the  patient 
is  excessively  feeble  and  depressed ; the  sight  and  hearing  lose  their  acuteness ; the  gums 
are  red,  swollen,  and  painful ; the  nostrils  are  filled  with  hardened  mucus,  and  diarrhoea 
exhausts  the  strength  ; there  is  sometimes  profuse  sweating  or  incontinence  of  urine  and 
faeces ; pulmonary  catarrh  impedes  respiration,  and  occasionally  death  takes  place,  with 
febrile  symptoms  and  coma.  In  exceptional  cases  mental  derangement  is  superadded, 
with  maniacal  violence  and  hallucinations.  Nearly  all  of  the  symptoms  in  this  summary 
were  cited  in  a case  reported  by  Umpfenbach  ( Therap . Monatsh.,  iii.  253).  Only  two 
cases  have  been  reported  of  death  directly  due  to  poisoning  by  this  salt — one  of  them  by 
Hameau  in  1868,  and  the  other  by  Eigner  in  1886  ( Archives  gen.,  1886,  ii.  487).  In  a 
case  of  scarlatina  occurring  in  an  epileptic,  who  continued  the  use  of  the  medicine  during 
the  fever,  death  having  occurred,  it  was  found  that  the  brain  contained  nearly  three  times 
the  proportion  of  the  bromide  that  existed  in  the  liver  (Practitioner,  xlii.  446).  It  is  related 
that  a hemichoreic  woman  took  610  grains  of  this  salt  in  three  days.  “ The  patient  sud 
denly  developed  delirium,  which  continued  after  the  bromide  was  stopped.  Subsequently, 
she  became  apathetic  and  semi-idiotic  ” ( Med  Record,  xx.  627). 

Whatever  interferes  with  the  action  of  the  kidneys  intensifies  the  effects  of  this  salt. 
To  this  category  belong  febrile  states,  obstructive  diseases  of  these  organs  (Bright’s  dis- 
ease), and  old  age.  On  the  other  hand,  children  of  from  seven  to  fifteen  years  of  age 
tolerate  larger  doses  of  the  bromide  than  other  persons,  and  are  less  apt  than  adults  to 
become  dull  and  sleepy  or  to  have  their  muscular  co-ordination  impaired.  This  peculiarity 
is  probably  due  to  the  rapid  elimination  of  the  salt,  especially  by  the  salivary  glands,  the 
kidneys,  and  the  skin.  It  is  stated  that  while  a nursing  mother  was  taking  30  grains  of 
potassium  bromide  daily  her  infant  became  emaciated  and  anaesthetic,  and  its  urine 
contained  potassa.  The  child  speedily  recovered  on  ceasing  to  use  its  mother’s  milk 
(Med.  Record,  xxii.  336). 

As  is  usual  in  the  history  of  medicines,  the  virtues  of  potassium  bromide  were  dis- 
covered accidentally.  The  high  price  of  potassium  iodide,  which  is  so  largely  used 
in  the  treatment  of  constitutional  syphilis,  caused  a trial  to  be  made  of  the  bromide,  in 
the  hope  that  it  might  serve  as  a substitute  for  the  more  costly  salt.  The  result  showed 
that  the  scientific  anticipation  was  totally  unfounded,  but  at  the  same  time  it  revealed 
the  sedative,  anaesthetic,  and  hypnotic  virtues  of  the  medicine,  and  led  to  its  more  suita- 
ble use  in  therapeutics,  at  first  in  allaying  priapism  and  other  forms  of  sexual  excite- 
ment, then  in  hysteria  and  in  hystero-epilepsy,  and  finally  in  epilepsy  itself.  Since  then 
it  has  been  employed  in  numerous  diseases,  especially  of  the  nervous  system. 

In  sleeplessness  depending  upon  nervous  excitement,  exhaustion,  and  irritability — in 
hysterical  and  maniacal  wakefulness,  for  example — rather  than  upon  cerebral  hyperaemia 
as  it  occurs  in  sthenic  inflammatory  diseases,  the  utility  of  the  medicine  is  most  conspicu- 
ous. This  fact  is  not  altogether  incompatible  with  the  probable  theory  which  ascribes  the 
hypnotic  virtues  of  the  bromide  to  its  power  of  diminishing  the  amount  of  blood  in  the 
brain,  but  is  more  in  accordance  with  the  view  that  it  causes  sleep  by  anaesthetizing  the 
organ,  precisely  as  it  acts  upon  the  fauces  and  other  parts  when  directly  applied  to  them 
It  is  a valuable  substitute  for  opiates  in  those  cases  of  infantile  wakefulness  which  depend 
more  upon  nervous  erethism  than  upon  pain  or  any  local  disease.  In  the  last-named  cases 


POTASSII  BROMIDVM. 


1285 


a dose  of  Gm.  0.60  (10  grains),  repeated  if  necessary,  will  suffice,  but  in  adults  from  Gm. 

1 .30-4  (20  to  40  grains)  should  be  administered  every  hour  or  two  until  the  proper  effect 
is  secured.  This  may  be  promoted  by  cold  ablutions  of  the  head  or  prolonged  tepid 
general  baths. 

Neuralgia  occurring  in  connection  with  general  nervous  erethism  induced  by  exhaust- 
ing causes,  or  with  a state  of  hypochondriac  melancholy,  with  more  or  less  functional 
derangement  of  the  stomach,  heart,  etc.,  or  with  an  overstrained  nervous  system  goaded 
by  unsatisfied  sexual  desires,  has  been  repeatedly  palliated,  and  sometimes  cured,  by  this 
medicine.  The  best  result  is  most  apt  to  be  reached  in  the  last-named  form  of  the 
disease.  But  a case  is  on  record  in  which  a man  of  sixty-two,  who  had  suffered  from  tic- 
douloureux  for  twenty-eight  years  was  completely  cured  in  a fortnight  by  the  daily 
administration  of  Gm.  7 (100  grains)  of  the  bromide,  given  in  divided  doses  (Peter). 

In  almost  all  forms  of  insanity  attended  with  excitement  and  insomnia  this  preparation 
is  of  great  value,  no  other  having  an  equal  power  of  allaying  the  symptoms  with  so  little 
risk  of  injury,  but  is  generally  more  esteemed  as  a means  of  reinforcing  the  action  of 
more  direct  narcotics.  In  delirium  tremens  it  is  equally  efficient,  but  it  is  less  so  in 
mania-a-potu.  In  the  latter  it  should  be  associated  with  cold  baths.  There  is  reason  to 
think  that  in  the  active  form  of  sunstroke  this  medicine  may  be  useful  as  an  adjuvant  to 
the  use  of  cold  water,  etc.  In  chorea  no  other  medicine  exerts  as  powerful  a restraint 
upon  the  movements  or  more  frequently  leads  to  a permanent  cure.  But  the  greatest 
triumph  of  potassium  bromide  is  shown  by  its  control  over  epilepsy , a disease  more 
intractable  than  any  other  that  is  not  inherently  fatal.  In  this  connection  the  experi- 
ments of  Albertoni  are  of  high  interest  ( Archiv  f.  exp.  Pathol , etc.,  xx.  251).  In  a 
number  of  animals  he  tested  the  epileptogenous  zone  on  one  side  of  the  brain,  and  found 
that  convulsive  attacks  were  excited  by  irritating  it.  He  then  administered  full  doses  of 
potassium  bromide  until  its  physiological  effects  were  developed,  and,  having  exposed 
the  sensitive  centre  of  the  uninjured  side  of  the  brain,  he  found  that  irritation  of  it  no 
longer  brought  on  convulsions.  When  epilepsy  is  congenital  or  is  caused  by  traumatic 
or  other  substantial  lesions,  this  medicine,  like  all  others,  may  be  altogether  inefficacious. 
The  nearer  the  disease  approaches  to  a purely  functional  disorder,  the  more  amenable  it 
is  to  treatment,  and  therefore  the  more  so  in  proportion  as  it  is  of  recent  origin  and 
before  those  alterations  of  nutrition  have  taken  place  in  the  blood-vessels  and  in  the  sub- 
stance of  the  nervous  centres  which  render  the  disease  inveterate.  Such,  at  least,  is,  as 
we  conceive,  the  more  judicious  opinion  ; but  in  the  judgment  of  some  neither  the  cause, 
degree,  nor  duration  of  the  disease  enables  one  to  judge  how  well  or  ill  it  may  be  affected 
by  the  medicine.  All  are,  however,  agreed  that  it  must  be  administered  in  full  doses  and 
for  a long  time — in  daily  doses  amounting  to  not  less  than  Gm.  4 (^j),  and  gradually 
increased  as  its  active  power  declines.  Other  reputed  remedies  are  sedatives  of  the 
circulation,  and  notably  the  most  ancient  of  all,  a vegetable  diet.  Animal  food  was  pro- 
hibited in  epilepsy  by  Celsus,  Trallian,  Aretaeus,  and  others.  Whether  or  not  radical 
and  absolute  cures  are  ever  made  of  genuine  epilepsy  is  undetermined,  but  the  great  pre- 
ponderance of  opinion  is  unquestionably  upon  the  negative  side  of  the  proposition.  The 
most  authoritative  judgment  is,  that  the  epileptic  is  never  secure  against  a return  of  his 
attacks,  and  that  if  he  is  prudent  he  will,  in  spite  of  an  apparent  cure,  continue  to  use 
the  medicine  at  intervals  for  the  remainder  of  his  life,  or,  as  one  has  phrased  it,  it  should 
become,  as  it  were,  his  daily  bread.  It  has  been  customary  in  the  treatment  of  epilepsy 
to  employ  a prescription  proposed  by  Dr.  Brown-Sequard — viz.  14.  Potassium  Iodide 
and  Potassium  Bromide,  of  each  8 parts;  Ammonium  Bromide  4 parts;  Potassium 
Bicarbonate  5 parts ; Infusion  of  Calumba  360  parts. — M.  S.  A teaspoonful  before 
meals  and  two  teaspoonfuls  at  bedtime.  The  bitter  saline  taste  of  this  mixture  soon 
renders  it  very  disagreeable  to  many  persons  who  can  take  without  serious  repugnance 
a simple  solution  in  water  of  one  or  more  of  the  salts.  It  may  very  well  be  questioned 
whether  the  presence  in  the  above  formula  of  any  of  the  salts  except  the  bromides  of 
potassium  and  ammonium  increases  its  efficacy. 

In  tetanus , idiopathic  as  well  as  traumatic,  and  including  tetanus  neonatorum , this 
bromide  has  exhibited  decided  curative  powers,  and  some  cases  have  recovered  after 
enormous  quantities  of  it  had  been  taken.  In  one  successful  case  about  a pound  of  the 
salt  was  consumed  in  the  treatment,  and  in  another  13  ounces  were  used  in  twenty  days. 
In  poisoning  by  strychnine  the  results  have  been  equally  striking  and  conclusive,  and  con- 
firm clinically  what  physiological  experiment  had  before  demonstrated,  that  potassium 
bromide  is  a true  antagonist  of  strychnine.  It  is  remarkable  that  a medicine  supposed 
to  have  a special  influence  upon  the  nervous  centres  connected  with  the  genital  organs 


1286 


POTASSII  BROMIDUM. 


should  not  have  proved  more  curative  of  hysteria  than  of  epilepsy  itself.  Clinical 
experience,  however,  shows  its  influence  over  hysterical  attacks  to  be  very  slight  and 
transient ; and  yet,  on  the  other  hand,  it  is  efficacious  in  certain  local  hysterical  spasms , 
as  of  the  eyelids,  oesophagus,  and  facial  muscles,  connected  with  uterine  irritation. 
Infantile  convulsions , arising  from  teething  and  other  excentric  causes  of  irritation,  have 
repeatedly  been  arrested  by  this  medicine,  which  may  be  administered  by  the  rectum  if 
it  cannot  be  given  by  the  mouth  in  doses  of  from  Gm.  0.30-0.60  (5  to  10  grains), 
repeated  every  hour.  In  some  cases  of  puerperal  convulsions  it  has  proved  equally  effi- 
cacious, but  is  probably  a less  reliable  remedy  than  the  volatile  anaesthetics.  In  whoop- 
ing cough  potassium  bromide  has  been  employed  by  the  stomach  and  also  by  the 
inhalation  of  its  atomized  solution.  By  the  former  method  the  spasmodic  element  is 
eliminated  in  part  indirectly,  and  by  the  latter  through  a direct  anaesthetic  action  upon 
the  larynx.  In  this  manner  one  of  the  most  dangerous  factors  of  the  disease  is  removed. 
For  inhalation  there  may  be  used  a solution  of  Gm.  0.12  in  Gm.  32  (gr.  ij  in  f^j)  of 
water.  Spasmodic  asthma  has  been  treated  in  the  same  manner,  and  with  notable  advan- 
tage. Spasmodic  vomiting , due  to  reflex  irritation,  as  in  pregnancy , is  sometimes  con- 
trolled by  the  bromide,  especially  when  full  doses  of  Gm.  4-6  (gr.  lx-xc)  are  given 
either  by  the  mouth  or  the  rectum.  Usually  the  latter  mode  of  administration  is  to  be 
preferred,  or,  if  the  medicine  is  given  by  the  stomach,  it  should  be  in  small  and  repeated 
doses.  It  need  hardly  be  remarked  that  an  essential  part  of  the  treatment  consists  in 
rectal  alimentation.  For  this  purpose  the  pancreatic  emulsion  is  the  most  appropriate 
agent.  The  vomiting  of  phthisis,  which  is  so  serious  a symptom  in  the  advanced  stages 
of  the  disease,  may  generally  be  controlled  by  applying  a strong  solution  of  the  salt  to 
the  pharynx  and  larynx  by  means  of  a brush  or  by  atomization.  Potassium  bromide 
appears  to  be  the  most  successful  medicine  hitherto  used  in  sea-sickness.  It  should  be 
taken  in  the  dose  of  about  10  grains  in  cold  water  flavored  with  tincture  of  ginger  or  of 
capsicum  or  of  cardamom,  before  meals  and  at  whatever  times  nausea  is  marked.  Mer- 
curial tremor  and  nervous  palpitation  of  the  heart  are  favorably  influenced  by  this  bromide. 
The  latter  affection  is  oftenest  relieved  when  associated  with  functional  angina  pectoris. 
This  bromide  is  alleged  by  Teissier  to  have  cured  some  cases  of  diabetes  {Bull,  de 
Therap .,  cviii.  332). 

Potassium  bromide,  it  has  already  been  stated,  even  when  freely  used  by  healthy 
persons,  blunts  or  suspends  both  sexual  desire  and  power,  and  it  has  been  employed  with 
great  advantage  when  erections  of  the  penis  result  from  morbid  conditions  either  of 
chordee  produced  by  gonorrhoea,  of  the  persistent  erections  so  frequently  met  with  in 
infants,  and  those  which  sometimes  follow  the  application  of  cantharidal  blisters.  The 
same  is  true  of  certain  less  ordinary  cases  of  persistent  priapism , as  well  as  of  the  com- 
mon examples  of  nocturnal  seminal  emissions , especially  as  they  occur  in  young  men  of 
chaste  life  and  sedentary  habits  and  in  those  who  have  been  more  or  less  addicted  to  self- 
abuse. Not  less  serviceable  is  it  in  relieving  nocturnal  incontinence  of  urine  in  children. 
It  has  also  been  used  with  excellent  results  in  those  cases  of  hysteroidal  excitement 
which  verge  on  nymphomania.  In  these  instances  large  doses  of  the  medicine  must  be 
employed.  Instead  of  being  administered  by  the  mouth,  the  bromide  may  be  injected 
into  the  rectum  or  the  bladder  in  cases  like  those  enumerated^or  of  more  substantial 
disease  of  these  organs.  A solution  of  1 : 20  has  been  found  the  most  useful.  Its  anaes- 
thetic virtues  are  always  shown  in  its  allaying  the  pain  of  teething  when  it  is  applied  to  the 
swollen  gums  mixed  with  honey  or  in  watery  solution.  It  alleviates  toothache  when  intro- 
duced into  a carious  cavity.  In  a lotion  the  salt  palliates  the  burning  and  stinging  of 
urticaria  and  the  itching  in  some  other  diseases  of  the  skin.  Internally  it  has  availed  to 
cure  acne  that  occurred  at  the  menstrual  periods  and  was  associated  with  ovarian  irrita- 
tion ( Practitioner , xlii.  346). 

Several  examples  have  been  published  which  go  to  prove  that  potassium  bromide  is 
occasionally  successful  in  curing  intermittent  fever  when  quinine  and  arsenic  have  failed ; 
and  even  when,  after  the  cure  of  the  paroxysmal  attacks,  the  spleen  remains  enlarged,  it 
is  asserted  that  no  other  remedy  so  promptly  and  certainly  reduces  it  to  its  normal  dimen- 
sions as  this  preparation.  It  need  not  usually  be  prescribed  in  larger  doses  than  Gm. 
1—1.30  (gr.  xv-xx)  a day.  In  the  defective  sight  or  amblyopia  sometimes  produced  by 
intemperance  this  bromide  has  been  found  very  useful  when  given  in  doses  at  first  of  Gm. 
0.60  (gr.  x)  three  times  a day,  and  gradually  increased  until  its  specific  effects  upon  the 
nervous  system  begin  to  show  themselves.  It  probably  acts  by  diminishing  the  conges- 
tion of  the  cerebral  blood-vessels.  Several  other  diseases  have  been  reported  to  be 
curable  by  it,  among  others  diphtheria.  But  an  examination  of  the  evidence  produced 


POTASSII  CARBON  AS. 


1287 


in  the  discussion  of  the  subject  leaves  no  doubt  that  this  bromide,  like  all  topical  appli- 
cations whatever,  has  only  an  incidental  influence  on  the  course  and  issue  of  the  disease. 
At  best,  it  may  hasten  the  separation  of  false  membrane  from  the  pharynx,  but  of  this 
the  evidence  is  far  from  conclusive. 

The  association  of  potassium  bromide  with  quinine,  and  also  with  iron,  is  said  to 
prevent  the  headache,  throbbing,  and  general  discomfort  which  some  persons  experience 
on  taking  those  medicines,  and  also  the  nauseant  and  depressant  effects  which  occasion- 
ally follow  the  use  of  opiates.  A mixture  of  the  bromides  of  potassium,  sodium,  and 
ammonium  is  thought  to  be  more  efficient  than  either  alone. 

The  anaesthetic  action  of  this  medicine  upon  the  pharynx  and  larynx  has  already  been 
referred  to  in  connection  with  ulcerated  states  of  these  organs ; the  same  influence  is 
resorted  to  for  facilitating  the  use  of  the  laryngoscope,  and  for  lessening  the  irritability 
of  the  urethra  when  the  introduction  of  instruments  through  it  is  required.  Suppositories, 
ointments,  and  solutions  containing  the  bromide  have  been  introduced  into  the  rectum  for 
relieving  irritability  of  the  bladder  and  promoting  the  resolution  of  the  enlarged  prostate 
gland.  Each  dose  may  contain  from  Gm.  0.30-0.60  (5  to  10  grains)  of  the  salt.  In  the 
treatment  of  gangrenous  sores  its  antiseptic  virtues  may  be  invoked. 

The  acneiform  eruption  produced  by  the  continued  use  of  potassium  bromide,  and 
which  with  many  patients  forms  a serious  objection  to  its  use,  may  very  generally  be  pre- 
vented, as  Echeverria  first  pointed  out  (1870),  by  adding  to  each  dose  of  the  bromide 
from  5 to  8 minims  of  Fowler’s  solution.  This  dose  of  the  latter  medicine  is  entirely  too 
large,  and  cannot  be  continued,  as  it  must  be  to  prevent  the  eruption.  Gowers  (1878) 
recommended  doses  of  from  1 to  5 minims,  and  stated  that  they  need  not  bear  any  direct 
proportion  to  the  degree  of  the  eruption,  which,  he  adds,  occurs  not  only  with  potassium 
bromide,  but  also  with  the  sodium  salt,  and  still  more  readily  with  ammonium  bromide. 
Duckworth  recommends  the  use  of  the  following  lotion:  R.  Precipitated  Sulphur  ^ij  ; 
Spirit  of  Camphor  f^j  ; Lime-water  f^ij  ; twice  a day  after  washing  the  skin  with  oat- 
meal gruel  instead  of  soap  (St.  Bart's  Hosp.  Rep.,  xv.  15).  In  this  country  Indian  corn 
meal  would  be  preferable.  Prowse  recommended  a solution  of  1 grain  of  salicylic  acid  in 
an  ounce  of  water,  to  be  applied  frequently  (Brit.  Med.  Jour.,  Aug.  1880,  p.  127). 

The  commencing  dose  of  potassium  bromide  is  Gm.  0.20-2  (gr.  iij— xxx),  according 
to  the  age  of  the  patient.  It  is  necessary  to  repeat  the  dose  several  times  a day,  and  in 
most  cases  to  increase  it  until  its  specific  effects  begin  to  appear.  It  should  then  be 
reduced  or  for  a brief  space  of  time  suspended. 

POTASSII  CARBONAS,  U.  S.,  Hr, — Potassium  Carbonate. 

Kaliurn  carbonicum  ( purum , s.  e.  tartar d),  P.  G.  ; Carbonas  potassicus,  s.  Jcalicus,  Potassii 
carbonas  purus ; Sal  tartari. — Carbonate  of  potash  ( potassa ),  Salt  of  tartar,  E.  ; Car- 
bonate de  potasse,  Fr.  ; Kaliumcarbonat , Kohlensaures  Kali , G. 

Formula  K2C03.  Molecular  weight  137.91. 

Origin  and  Preparation. — Potassium  carbonate  is  contained  in  many  mineral 
waters,  and  is  met  with  in  the  animal  economy  chiefly  after  the  administration  of  potas- 
sium citrate  or  tartrate.  Plants  take  their  inorganic  constituents  from  the  soil,  and  when 
incinerated  leave  them  behind  as  ashes.  The  ash  of  most  plants  contains  potassium, 
sodium,  calcium,  and  magnesium  in  combination  with  chlorine,  carbonic,  sulphuric,  phos- 
phoric, and  silicic  acids,  usually  ferric  oxide,  and  occasionally  some  other  elements.  As  a 
general  rule,  plants  grown  near  the  seashore  yield  an  ash  rich  in  sodium,  and  those  grown 
inland  an  ash  in  which  potassium  salts  predominate.  Succulent  plants  or  parts  of  plants 
generally  yield  a larger  percentage  of  ash  (calculated  for  the  exsiccated  substance)  than 
dry  or  woody  parts.  The  amount  of  ash  and  its  constituents  necessarily  varies  to  a cer- 
tain extent,  being  influenced  by  the  nature  of  the  soil,  the  age  of  the  plant,  and  by 
various  other  causes;  the  composition  of  the  ash  and  of  its  soluble  portion  must  there- 
fore vary  for  the  same  species.  Among  the  vegetables  which  yield  an  ash  rich  in  potas- 
sium salts  must  be  mentioned  corn-cobs — that  is,  the  fully-developed  axis  of  the  fruit- 
spikes  of  Zea  Mays,  Linne,  after  having  been  deprived  of  the  corn.  Examined  by  II. 
Hazard  (1872),  they  were  found  to  contain,  on  an  average,  when  air-dried,  0.762  per  cent, 
of  potassium  carbonate,  which  may  easily  be  obtained  in  a nearly  pure  state ; and,  esti- 
mating the  corn  crop  of  the  United  States  at  1,100,000,000  bushels,  and  14  pounds  of 
cobs  to  the  bushel,  he  calculated  that  115,000,000  pounds  of  this  alkali  could  be  obtained 
from  that  source  alone. 

For  a long  time  this  article  was  chiefly  obtained  in  those  countries,  as  in  some  parts 


1288 


POTASSII  CARBON  AS. 


of  Europe  and  North  America,  where  wood  is  cheap  or  where  its  transportation  to  more 
remunerative  markets  is  too  costly,  by  burning  the  wood  and  lixiviating  the  ashes.  The 
solution  is  obtained  as  concentrated  as  possible  by  passing  the  weaker  liquids  through 
fresh  portions  of  ash,  afterward  evaporated  and  heated  in  iron  vessels,  so  that  on  cooling 
it  will  solidify  to  a very  hard  mass  ; this  constitutes  the  crude  potash  of  the  market. 
This  crude  potash  is  of  a more  or  less  deep-brown,  reddish-brown,  or  bluish  color,  due  to 
organic  impurities  and  to  iron,  copper,  or  manganese ; it  is  deliquescent  on  exposure  and 
has  a very  caustic  taste.  It  is  not  recognized  by  any  of  the  pharmacopoeias. 

Large  quantities  of  potash  are  at  present  prepared  from  the  ash  obtained  from  the  resi- 
due of  beet-sugar  manufacture,  which  contains  about  one-third  its  weight  of  this  salt, 
and  is  freed  from  other  potassium  and  sodium  salts  by  allowing  these  to  crystallize  from  con- 
centrated solutions  at  different  temperatures.  On  washing  the  fleeces  of  sheep  with  water, 
evaporating  the  solution,  and  igniting  the  residue,  an  ash  is  obtained  containing  but  a 
small  percentage  of  sodium  salts  and  a larger  proportion  of  potassium  chloride  and  sul- 
phate. The  potassium  salts  obtained  in  these  processes,  notably  in  the  former  one  in 
large  quantities,  also  the  potassium  salts  from  the  Stassfurt  mines,  are  by  suitable  processes 
converted  into  potassium  sulphate,  and  this  salt  into  carbonate  by  a process  similar  to  that 
of  Leblanc  for  soda  (see  Sodii  Carbonas),  by  heating  the  sulphate  with  lime  and  char- 
coal, whereby  potassium  carbonate  and  an  insoluble  calcium  oxysulphide  are  formed. 
Balard  (1865)  found  it  advantageous  to  employ  not  pure  potassium  sulphate,  but  a salt 
containing  about  20  per  cent,  of  magnesium  sulphate,  which  leaves  the  product  of  ignition 
in  a porous  condition,  so  that  it  may  readily  be  exhausted  by  water.  ' 

Various  methods  of  obtaining  potassium  carbonate  from  other  sources  have  been 
recommended,  and  to  some  extent  are  used.  E.  Meyer  (1857)  proposed  to  ignite  an  inti- 
mate mixture  of  10  parts  of  feldspar  (aluminum  and  potassium  silicate)  with  from  14  to 
18  parts  of  lime,  to  boil  the  mass  with  water  under  pressure,  and  to  evaporate  the  solu- 
tion, at  the  same  time  conducting  the  products  of  combustion  over  the  liquid,  in  order 
to  convert  the  caustic  potassa  into  carbonate  and  to  precipitate  the  alumina  which  was  in 
solution. 

1.  Potassii  carbonas  impurus,  U.  S.  1870  ; Kalium  carbonicum  crudum,  P.  G. ; 
Cineres  clavellati. — Impure  potassium  carbonate,  Pearlash,  E. ; Potasse  impur,  Fr. ; 
Rohe  Potasche,  G. — This  is  the  white  salt,  still  impure,  the  preparation  of  which  has 
been  described  above.  It  is  at  present  only  recognized  by  the  German  Pharmacopoeia, 
which  for  the  anhydrous  or  nearly  anhydrous  salt  requires  it  to  contain  90  per  cent,  of 
potassium  carbonate,  and  2 Gm.  of  it  to  be  neutralized  by  not  less  than  26  Cc.  of  normal 
hydrochloric  (or  oxalic)  acid. 

2.  Potassii  carbonas,  U.  S.  1870;  Kali  carbonicum  depuratum,  P.  G.  1872. — Potas- 
sium carbonate,  E. ; Carbonate  de  potasse,  Fr. ; Gereinigtes  kohlensaures  Kali,  G. — This 
salt,  no  longer  official,  but  frequently  found  in  the  shops,  is  prepared  by  treating  the  pre- 
ceding with  its  own  weight  of  cold  water,  decanting  the  clear  solution,  evaporating  it  in  a 
bright  iron  vessel,  and  granulating. 

3.  Official  Potassium  Carbonate.  For  its  preparation  the  following  directions 
were  given  in  the  U.  S.  P.  1870:  Take  of  potassium  bicarbonate,  in  coarse  powder,  12 
troy  ounces ; distilled  water  12  fluidounces.  Put  the  potassium  bicarbonate  into  a capa- 
cious iron  crucible ; heat  gradually  until  the  water  of  crystallization  is  driven  off ; then 
raise  the  heat  to  redness,  and  maintain  that  temperature  for  half  an  hour.  Having  taken 
the  crucible  from  the  fire  and  allowed  it  to  cool,  dissolve  its  contents  in  the  distilled  water 
and  filter  the  solution.  Pour  this  into  an  iron  vessel  and  evaporate  over  a gentle  fire 
until  it  thickens.  Lastly,  remove  it  from  the  fire,  and  stir  constantly  with  an  iron  spatula 
until  it  forms  a granular  salt. 

When  an  organic  salt  of  potassium  is  ignited,  the  residue  left  contains  potassium 
carbonate.  Cream  of  tartar,  being  the  most  common  salt  available  for  this  purpose,  was 
formerly  more  extensively  employed  than  at  present  for  preparing  pure  potassium  carbo- 
nate ; hence  the  name  salt  of  tartar , which  is,  however,  in  the  United  States  usually 
employed  as  a synonym  for  purified  potassium  carbonate.  In  making  carbonate  from 
potassium  bitartrate,  the  latter  is  usually  mixed  with  saltpetre,  which  should  be  entirely 
free  from  chloride,  and  then  deflagrated  by  throwing  the  mixture  in  small  portions  into  a 
red-hot  crucible,  when  the  potassium  of  both  the  bitartrate  and  nitrate  is  left  behind  as 
carbonate.  In  this  way  black  and  white  flux  are  prepared,  of  which  the  latter  usually 
contains  potassium  nitrite.  By  exhausting  the  black  flux  with  water  and  evaporating 
the  solution  a very  pure  potassium  carbonate  is  obtained. 

Since  pearlash  contains,  besides  carbonate,  various  other  soluble  salts  of  potassium  and 


POTASSIT  CARBONAS. 


1289 


sodium,  a pure  carbonate  cannot  be  obtained  from  it,  though  many  of  the  foreign  salts 
mav  be  removed  by  the  use  of  cold  water  in  small  quantities  in  which  the  other  salts  are 
less  soluble  than  the  carbonate.  But  by  converting  the  carbonate  into  bicarbonate  the 
latter  salt  may  be  obtained  nearly  chemically  pure,  and  when  heated  to  redness  will  give 
off  water  and  carbon  dioxide,  and  leave  an  equally  pure  carbonate;  2KHC03  yields 
K.,C03  + H20  -f-  C02.  In  these  operations  only  silver  or  clean  iron  vessels  should  be 
employed,  for  reasons  explained  under  Potassa. 

Properties. — Potassium  carbonate  in  its  pure  state  is  a white  inodorous  salt,  some- 
times crystalline,  but  usually  in  the  form  of  a granular  powder,  which  has  a strong  alka- 
line reaction  and  a strongly  alkaline  but  scarcely  a caustic  taste,  and  is  deliquescent  in 
the  air,  forming  a colorless  or  yellowish  liquid  of  an  oily  appearance  ( Oleum  tartar i per 
deliquium ).  It  is  soluble  in  1.1  parts  of  cold  water  and  in  two-thirds  its  weight  of 
boiling  water,  and  from  its  concentrated  solution  may  with  some  difficulty  be  obtained  in 
transparent  crystals  containing  16.36  per  cent,  of  water.  It  is  insoluble  in  alcohol,  dis- 
solves in  dilute  acids  with  effervescence,  and  has  the  chemical  behavior  of  potassium  salts. 
Since  solutions  of  sodium  carbonate,  unless  rather  diluted,  yield  with  an  excess  of  tartaric 
acid  a crystalline  precipitate,  it  is  best  to  test  for  potassium  with  a fragment  of  the  salt 
attached  to  the  loop  of  a platinum  wire,  which  should  impart  a violet  but  not  a perma- 
nently yellow  color  to  a non-luminous  flame,  or  the  salt  may  be  dissolved  in  a slight 
excess  of  diluted  hydrochloric  acid  ; such  a solution  will  give  a yellow  precipitate  with 
test-solution  of  platinic  chloride  and  a white  crystalline  precipitate  with  a saturated  solu- 
tion of  sodium  bitartrate.  The  salt  when  heated  to  redness  loses  all  the  water  it  may 
have  retained  or  absorbed  (about  16  per  cent.,  /?/*.)  ; this  exsiccated  salt  melts  at  a 
bright-red  heat,  aad  slowly  volatilizes  at  a white  heat.  The  U.  S.  and  German  Pharma- 
copoeias recognize  the  anhydrous  or  nearly  anhydrous  salt  containing  at  least  95  per  cent, 
of  pure  potassium  carbonate ; hence  2 Gm.  of  it  should  be  neutralized  by  not  less  than 
27.4  Cc.  of  normal  hydrochloric  or  sulphuric  acid,  which  indicates  94.5  per  cent.  K2C03. 
83  grains  require  for  neutralization  not  less  than  980  grain-measures  (i?r.)  of  the  volu- 
metric solution  of  oxalic  acid,  corresponding  to  82  per  cent,  of  K2C03.  Before  applying 
the  volumetric  test  the  absence  of  notable  quantities  of  sodium  carbonate  should  be 
proven. 

Tests. — “ No  precipitate  or  coloration  should  be  produced  in  the  aqueous  solution 
(1  in  20)  by  an  equal  volume  of  hydrogen  sulphide  test-solution  (absence  of  metallic 
impurities).  On  neutralizing  the  solution  with  hydrochloric  acid  no  odor  of  burning 
sulphur  nor  any  white  precipitate  should  appear  (absence  of  thiosulphate).  If  2 Cc. 
of  the  aqueous  solution  be  carefully  mixed  with  an  equal  volume  of  concentrated  sul- 
phuric acid,  and,  after  cooling,  1 Cc.  of  ferrous  sulphate  test-solution  be  poured  upon  it 
so  as  to  form  a separate  layer,  no  brown  color  should  appear  at  the  line  of  contact 
(absence  of  nitrate).  If  0.5  Gm.  of  potassium  carbonate  be  dissolved  in  5 Cc.  of  diluted 
hydrochloric  acid  and  5 Cc.  of  water,  the  addition  of  1 Cc.  of  barium  chloride  test-solu- 
tion should  not  produce  any  turbidity  (absence  of  sulphate).  A solution  of  0.5  Gm. 
of  the  salt  in  5 Cc.  of  diluted  hydrochloric  acid  test-solution  mixed  with  5 Cc.  of  water 
should  not  be  colored  blue  within  fifteen  minutes  by  0.3  Cc.  of  potassium  ferrocyanide 
test-solution  (limit  of  iron).  If  0.5  Gm.  of  the  salt  be  dissolved  in  6 Cc.  of  diluted 
nitric  acid  and  4 Cc.  of  water,  then  1 Cc.  of  decinormal  silver  nitrate  solution  be  added, 
and  the  mixture  filtered,  no  change  should  be  produced  in  the  filtrate  by  the  further 
addition  of  silver  nitrate  solution  (limit  of  chloride).  If  10  Cc.  of  the  aqueous  solution 
(1  in  20)  be  mixed  with  2 drops  each  of  ferrous  sulphate  test-solution  and  ferric  chloride 
test-solution,  the  mixture  heated,  and  slightly  supersaturated  with  hydrochloric  acid, 
no  blue  color  should  appear  (absence  of  cyanide).  The  addition  of  a few  drops  of  lead 
acetate  test-solution  to  the  aqueous  solution  should  produce  a pure  white  precipitate 
(absence  of  sulphide).  To  neutralize  0.69  Gm.  of  potassium  carbonate  should  require 
not  less  than  9.5  Cc.  of  normal  sulphuric  acid  (each  Cc.  corresponding  to  10  per  cent, 
of  the  pure  salt),  methyl-orange  being  used  as  indicator.” — U.  S. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Liquor  kali  carbonici.  11  parts  of  pure  potassium 
carbonate  are  dissolved  in  20  parts  of  distilled  ^water ; the  solution  has  the  specific 
gravity  1.330  to  1.334,  and  3 parts  of  it  should  contain  1 part  of  potassium  carbonate. — 

Pearlash  is  only  employed  for  preparing  purified  potassium  carbonate.  In  the  prepara- 
tion of  most  potassium  salts  the  pure  potassium  carbonate  or  the  bicarbonate  may  be 
employed.  • 

Action  and  Uses. — Potassium  carbonate  is  less  irritating  than  potassa,  but  more 


1290 


POTASSII  C1ILORAS. 


so  than  the  bicarbonate.  In  large  doses  it  acts  as  an  irritant  on  the  stomach,  and  even 
as  a caustic  when  pure.  It  has  been  employed  in  baths  in  the  treatment  of  tetanus , 
puerperal  convulsions , paralysis , chronic  gout  and  rheumatism , glandular  swellings , sup- 
pressed cutaneous  eruptions , etc.  In  all  of  these  cases  it  probably  acts  through  its  sub- 
stitutive or  its  counter-irritant  rather  than  by  its  alkaline  virtues. 

Internally,  potassium  carbonate  has  been  much  used,  in  common  with  other  ant-acids, 
in  the  treatment  of  gouty  and  dyspeptic  conditions  attended  with  a highly  acid  state  of 
the  urine.  It  is  most  efficient  when  this  form  of  secretion,  which  probably  depends 
upon  the  imperfect  oxidation  of  the  products  of  primary  digestion,  is  corrected  by  bitter 
tonics  and  hygienic  measures.  Formerly,  theoretical  views  of  the  action  of  alkalies  led 
to  the  use  of  potassium  carbonate  in  various  inflammations,  membranous  and  paren- 
chymatous, but  especially  in  those  attended  with  plastic  exudation.  It  was  hence  much 
employed  in  membranous  croup , pneumonia , peritonitis , and  glandular  enlargements , and 
positive  assertions  were  made  of  its  curative  powers ; their  value  was,  however,  greatly 
impaired  by  the  fact  that  in  general  mercury  was  associated  with  the  alkaline  medicine, 
as  well  as  by  leaving  out  of  account  the  influence  of  hygienic  measures,  the  natural 
tendency  of  the  disease,  etc.  Very  probably,  subacute  inflammation  of  the  lymphatic 
glands , and  enlargement  of  the  liver  with  jaundice  affecting  intemperate  eaters  and 
drinkers,  have  been  benefited  by  this  medicine,  since,  like  all  the  alkaline  carbonates,  it 
tends  to  render  the  blood  more  watery,  and  therefore  less  nutritive  and  less  apt  to  pro- 
duce congestions  in  parenchymatous  organs.  In  this  way,  doubtless,  it  has  been  profit- 
ably used  in  hepatic  and  splenic  dropsy.  On  the  whole,  there  is  nothing  in  potassium 
carbonate  to  render  it  superior,  or  even  equal,  to  the  sodium  carbonates  for  any  purpose 
to  which  alkaline  medicines  are  applied  internally. 

The  dose  of  potassium  carbonate  is  Gm.  0.60-2  (gr.  x— xxx).  For  external  use  a solu- 
tion of  Gm.  8 in  Gm.  500  (gij  in  Oj),  or  an  ointment  containing  Gm.  0.60-4  in  Gm.  32 
(gr.  x-lx  in  ^j)  of  lard,  may  be  employed. 

POTASSII  CHLORAS,  JJ.  S.,  Br  — Potassium  Chlorate. 

Kalium  chloricum , P.  G. ; Kali  oxymuriaticum , Kali  muriaticum  oxygenatum,  Chloras 
potassicus  s.  kalicus. — Chlorate  of  potash,  E. ; Chlorate  de  potasse , Fr. ; Kaliumchlorat , 
Chlorsaures  Kali , G. 

Formula  KC103.  Molecular  weight  122.28. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Potassium  Carbonate  20  ounces ; Slaked  Lime,  53  ounces  ; 
Distilled  Water,  a sufficiency  ; Black  Oxide  of  Manganese,  80  ounces  ; Hydrochloric  Acid, 
24  pints.  Mix  the  lime  with  the  potassium  carbonate,  and  triturate  them  with  a few 
ounces  of  the  water,  so  as  to  make  the  mixture  slightly  moist.  Place  the  oxide  of 
manganese  in  a large  retort  or  flask,  and,  having  poured  upon  it  the  hydrochloric  acid, 
dilute  it  with  6 pints  of  water,  apply  a gentle  sand  heat,  and  conduct  the  chlorine  as  it 
comes  over,  first  through  a bottle  containing  6 ounces  of  water,  and  then  into  a large 
carboy  containing  the  mixture  of  potassium  carbonate  and  slaked  lime.  When  the  whole 
of  the  chlorine  has  come  over,  remove  the  contents  of  the  carboy  and  boil  them  for 
twenty  minutes  with  7 pints  of  water ; filter  and  evaporate  till  a film  forms  on  the  sur- 
face, and  set  aside  to  cool  and  crystallize.  The  crystals  thus  obtained  are  to  be  purified 
by  dissolving  them  in  three  times  their  weight  of  boiling  distilled  water,' and  again  allow- 
ing the  solution  to  crystallize.” — Br. 

On  passing  chlorine  gas  into  a solution  of  potassa,  potassium  hypochlorite  and  chlo- 
ride are  formed  ; 6KOII  -f  3C12  yields  3KC10  -f-  3KC1  + 3H20.  On  boiling  the  solution, 
or  on  heating  it  to  between  70°  and  80°  C.  (158°  and  176°  F.),  the  hypochlorite  is 
decomposed  into  chlorate  and  chloride  ; 3KC10  yields  KC103  + 2KC1.  The  entire  reac- 
tion, therefore,  results  in  the  production  of  1 molecule  of  potassium  chlorate  and  5 of 
chloride,  and  the  two  salts  must  be  separated  by  recrystallization.  To  avoid  the  loss 
of  potassium  salt,  Graham  (1841)  proposed  to  substitute  an  equivalent  quantity  of  lime 
for  five-sixths  of  the  potassa ; and  this  is  the  process  which  is  now  often  followed  in 
making  the  chlorate  on  the  large  scale,  and  the  details  of  which,  as  recommended  by  the 
British  Pharmacopoeia,  have  been  described  above.  It  has  the  additional  advantage  that 
the  previous  preparation  of  caustic  potash  is  unnecessary.  In  the  presence  of  water 
calcium  hydroxide  reacts  with  chlorine  in  a manner  precisely  analogous  to  that  of  potas- 
sium hydroxide,  yielding  calcium  hypochlorite  and  chloride  (see  page  381),  and  by  heat 
the  hypochlorite  is  decomposed  into  calcium  chloride  and  chlorate,  the  latter  of  which  by 
mutual  decomposition  with  potassium  carbonate  produces  potassium  chlorate  and  calcium 


POTASS II  CHLORAS. 


1291 


carbonate.  It  will  be  observed  that  the  reactions  in  this  process  are  apparently  com- 
plicated, but,  as  explained  above,  the  final  results  are  expressed  by  the  equation  K2C03  + 
6Ca(OH)2  + 6C12  = 2KC103  + 5CaCl2  + CaC03  + 6H?0. 

Potassium  chloride  is  now  obtained  in  large  quantities,  and  this  salt  is  advantage- 
ously used  in  the  preparation  of  chlorate  by  a process  very  similar  to  that  of  Graham, 
as  was  shown  by  Liebig  (1842).  In  this  case  the  reaction  results  as  follows : KC1  + 
3Ca(OH)2  + 3C12  = KC103  + 3CaCl2  -f  3H20.  Or  chlorinated  lime  may  be  boiled  with 
potassium  chloride,  in  which  case  the  final  products  are  likewise  potassium  chlorate  and 
calcium  chloride. 

Potassium  chlorate  seems  to  have  been  known  to  Glauber  (1657)  ; it  was  described  by 
Higgins  (1786)  as  a kind  of  saltpetre,  and  was  recognized  by  Berthollet  (1786)  as  the 
compound  of  a hitherto  unknown  acid.  The  United  States  imported  474,598  pounds  of 
this  salt  in  1876;  at  present  the  importation  averages  about  1,200  000  pounds. 

Properties. — Potassium  chlorate  crystallizes  in  colorless,  shining  plates  or  in  short 
monoclinic  prisms.  It  is  inodorous,  has  a cooling  saline  taste  and  neutral  reaction, 
is  permanent  in  the  air,  melts  without  decomposition  at  234°  C. 

(453°  F.),  gives  otf  oxygen  at  355°  C.  (671°  F.) ; at  the  same 
time  it  forms  potassium  perchlorate,  and  at  a higher  tempera- 
ture above  400°  C.  (752°  F.)  parts  with  all  its  oxygen  (39.2 
per  cent,  of  its  weight),  leaving  60.8  per  cent,  of  potassium 
chloride  having  the  properties  described  below.  It  requires,  at 
15°  C.  (59°  F.),16.7  parts  of  water  for  solution  or  1.7  parts  of 
boiling  water. — U.  S.  According  to  Gay-Lussac,  100  parts  of 
water  dissolve 

at  0°  13.3°  15.4°  24.4°  35°  49.1°  74.9°  104.8°  C. 

3.33  5.60  6.03  8.44  12.05  18.96  35.4  60.24  parts  salt. 

Gerardin’s  determinations  agree  with  these  results.  Ammonium  Crystal  of  Totassnim  Chlorate, 
nitrate  increases,  but  ammonium  chloride  and  acetate  decrease  the  solubility  in  water 
(Pearson,  1869).  The  salt  is  slightly  soluble  in  diluted  alcohol,  but  is  insoluble  in  abso- 
lute alcohol.  It  should  never  be  triturated  together  with  sulphur,  sugar,  tannin,  or  other 
readily  oxidizable  substances,  except  in  the  presence  of  water ; or,  if  dry  mixtures  are  to 
be  made,  the  ingredients  should  be  powdered  separately,  and  mixed  by  means  of  a sieve 
and  without  friction,  in  order  to  avoid  violent  explosions.  As  ordinarily  met  with  in  com- 
merce, the  salt  contains  traces  of  calcium  chloride,  from  which  it  is  freed  by  dissolving 
it  in  two  or  three  times  its  weight  of  distilled  water,  and  stirring  the  solution  while 
cooling ; it  will  then  be  obtained  in  small  crystals,  which,  after  draining  and  washing 
with  cold  water,  are  pure.  The  saturated  aqueous  solution  of  the  salt  yields  with  tar- 
taric acid  a white  crystalline  precipitate  of  potassium  tartrate,  and  on  being  warmed 
with  hydrochloric  acid  becomes  greenish-yellow  and  gives  off  the  odor  of  chlorine.  When 
strong  sulphuric  acid  is  added  to  potassium  chlorate,  chlorine  dioxide , C102,  is  formed : 
this  is  a yellow,  heavy  gas,  which,  in  the  presence  of  combustible  matter  or  by  a slight 
elevation  of  temperature,  is  decomposed  with  a powerful  explosion  into  oxygen  and  chlo- 
rine. On  adding  hydrochloric  acid  to  potassium  chlorate  a deep-yellow,  dangerously 
explosive  gas,  the  euchlorine  of  Davy,  is  produced  ; it  is  a mixture  of  chlorine  and  chlorine 
dioxide. 

Tests. — The  aqueous  solution,  containing  5 ( U.  & 1,1*.  G.)  per  cent,  of  potassium 
chlorate,  should  not  be  precipitated  by  barium  chloride  (sulphate),  silver  nitrate  (chlo- 
ride), or  ammonium  oxalate  (calcium  salt),  nor  should  it  be  colored  by  hydrogen  sul- 
phide or  by  potassium  ferrocyanide.  If  a mixture  of  1 Gm.  of  the  salt  with  0.5  Gm.  of 
zinc  and  0.5  Gm.  of  iron,  both  in  the  state  of  powder,  be  heated  with  5 Cc.  of  potassiujn 
hydroxide  test-solution,  no  evolution  of  ammonia  should  be  perceptible  either  by  moistened 
red  litmus-paper  or  by  odor  (absence  of  nitrate  or  nitrite). 

Other  Potassium  Salts  containing  Chlorine. — Potassii  chloridum,  s.  Kalium  chloridum 
(chloratum),  Chloruretum  potassicum,  Sal  digestivum  Sylvii. — Potassium  chloride,  E. ; Chlorure 
de  potassium,  Sel  digestif,  Fr. ; Kaliumchlorid,  G.  Formula  KC1  ; molecular  weight  74.40. — 
It  is  obtained  in  large  quantities  at  Stassfurt  from  carnallite,  a double  chloride  of  potassium  and 
magnesium,  and  forms  white  or  colorless,  inodorous  cubes  or  quadrangular  prisms  which  have  a 
saline  taste  resembling  that  of  table-salt,  and  which  are  fusible  without  decomposition.  The  salt 
dissolves  in  3 parts  of  cold  and  a little  less  than  2 parts  of  hot  water,  and  is  slightly  soluble  in 
alcohol,  but  is  insoluble  in  absolute  alcohol.  Its  aqueous  solution  should  have  a neutral  reaction, 
and  should  yield  with  saturated  solution  of  sodium  bitartrate  a white  crystalline  precipitate,  and 


1292 


POTASSII  CH LORAS. 


with  silver  nitrate  a white  curdy  precipitate  soluble  in  ammonia,  but  insoluble  in  nitric  acid  ; the 
solution  should  not  be  affected  by  barium  chloride  (sulphate)  or  potassium  carbonate  (salts  of 
metals).  This  salt  should  not  be  confounded  with  potassium  chlorate  (see  above)  nor  with 
chlorinated  potassa  (see  page  984).  It  is  largely  employed  in  the  manufacture  of  other  potas- 
sium compounds. 

Potassii  perchloras,  KC104,  Potassium  perchlorate,  molecular  weight  138.24. — To  obtain  it, 
potassium  chlorate  is  carefully  heated  until  it  melts  and  just  begins  to  evolve  oxygen,  and  is  kept 
at  this  temperature  until  gas  is  no  longer  given  off,  and  a portion  of  the  residue,  on  being  tested 
with  strong  hydrochloric  acid,  acquires  only  a faint  yellow  color.  The  saline  mass  is  dissolved 
in  water  and  freed  from  chloride  by  recrystallization.  Potassium  perchlorate  is  in  colorless 
rhombic  crystals  which  have  a slight  saline  taste,  and  when  heated  to  about  400°  C.  (752°  F.)  is 
decomposed  into  oxygen  gas  and  potassium  chloride.  It  is  insoluble  in  alcohol,  and  dissolves  in 
5J  parts  of  boiling  water,  but  requires  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  65  parts,  and  at  10°  C.  (50°  F.)  88  parts, 
of  water  for  solution. 

This  salt  is  employed  in  preparing  perchloric  acid , for  which  Bullock  (1865)  devised  the  fol- 
lowing process  : Potassium  perchlorate  is  distilled  with  twice  its  weight  of  sulphuric  acid  mixed 
with  part  of  water.  The  distillate,  containing  perchloric,  sulphuric,  and  a little  hydrochloric 
acid  and  chlorine,  is  carefully  treated  with  lead  carbonate  until  the  sulphuric  acid  has  been 
completely  precipitated.  The  liquid  is  filtered,  freed  from  lead  by  hydrogen  sulphide,  filtered 
again,  and  boiled  until  it  attains  a specific  gravity  of  about  1.6,  when  by  distillation  it  may  be 
obtained  of  the  density  1.693.  It  is  a colorless,  oily,  very  acid  liquid,  containing  72  per  cent, 
of  IIC104,  boiling  at  203°  C.,  and  not  affected  by  sunlight  or  by  sulphurous  or  hydrochloric 
acid,  but  readily  decomposed  by  iodine  and  bromine.  The  acid  is  monobasic,  forms  mostly 
deliquescent  salts,  which  are  also  soluble  in  alcohol,  and  when  added  to  not  too  dilute  solutions 
of  potassium  salts  produces  precipitates  of  potassium  perchlorate. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  large  amount  of  oxygen  contained  in  potassium  chlorate 
early  led  to  its  being  used  to  cure  a variety  of  diseases  which,  according  to  the  fashion 
of  the  day,  were  supposed  to  depend  upon  putrefactive  changes  in  the  blood,  etc.  These 
theoretical  notions  met  with  their  usual  fate,  and  the  medicine  had  been  but  little  used 
for  more  than  forty  years  when  attention  was  attracted  to  it  by  its  power  of  rapidly  heal- 
ing cancrum  oris  and  aphthous  ulcers  of  the  mouth.  In  excessive  doses  it  may  be 
poisonous.  In  one  case  Gm.  20  (300  grains)  were  taken  daily  for  four  successive  days 
by  a consumptive  patient.  Obstinate  vomiting  and  severe  intestinal  pain  continued  until 
death,  after  which  inflammation  of  the  mucous  coat  of  the  stomach  was  found. 

No  less  than  eleven  fatal  cases  of  poisoning  by  this  salt  are  referred  to  by  Jacobi 
(1879),  besides  several  others,  in  which,  owing  to  the  nature  of  the  disease,  diphtheria, 
doubts  may  exist  respecting  the  share  of  the  medicine  in  their  issue.  It  1880,  Weg- 
schneider  collected  thirty  cases  of  poisoning  by  potassium  chlorate,  but  the  proportion 
that  proved  fatal  was  not  stated  ( Ball . de  Therap .,  civ.  141).  From  that  date  to  May, 
1884,  we  have  met  with  the  records  of  ten  cases  of  such  poisoning,  and  of  these  six  were 
fatal.  Among  more  recent  fatal  cases  may  be  noted  two  reported  by  Peabody  {Med. 
Record , xxxiv.  57),  and  one  by  Anderson  (ibid.,  xxxvi.  707).  In  1879  the  observations 
and  experiments  of  Marchand  ( Virchow's  Archiv , lxxvii.  455)  led  him  to  conclude  that 
potassium  chlorate  superoxidizes,  and  so  disorganizes,  the  blood-corpuscles,  and  renders 
them  incapable  of  performing  their  function  as  oxygen-carriers,  and  that  death  from  it  is 
either  due  to  this  cause  or  to  obstruction  of  the  kidneys  with  effete  blood-disks  and  (he 
might  have  added)  crystals  of  the  chlorate.  The  blood  itself  remains  liquid,  and  it,  as 
well  as  the  organs  abounding  in  blood,  are  of  a dark-chocolate  color.  This  condition  of 
the  blood  has  also  been  observed  by  Fowler  ( loc . sup.  cit .),  Wilke,  and  others.  It  is 
ascribed  to  the  conversion  of  oxyhaemoglobin  into  methsemoglobin.  The  spleen  is  some- 
times enlarged.  Besides  these  tissue-lesions  this  chlorate  exhibits  other  evidences  of 
activity.  It  is  antiseptic,  but  not  because  it  yields  oxygen.  If  it  did  so  it  should  stimu- 
late the  heart,  but  it  depresses  that  organ,  and  when  injected  into  the  veins  of  an  animal 
it  kills  by  arresting  the  heart.  Some  investigators  attribute  its  poisonous  action  to  its 
potassium  base,  but  the  elimination  of  the  salt  by  the  kidneys  without  decomposition 
negatives  this  opinion. 

The  utility  of  this  salt  in  curing  mercurial  salivation  and  mercurial  idcers  of  the  mouth 
and  throat  is  now  attested  by  universal  experience,  but  it  is  not  so  certain  that  it  acts 
through  the  blood  after  absorption  from  the  stomach,  since  the  same  favorable  effects  are 
observed  when  a solution  of  it  is  used  as  a topical  application  only.  That  it  does  not  act 
through  any  relation  it  may  have  to  mercury  in  the  system  is  proved,  not  only  by  the 
fact  just  stated,  but  also  by  its  equal  efficiency  in  non-mercurial  salivation — as,  for 
instance,  when  the  throat  has  been  injured  by  caustic  potassa — and  in  like  manner  in 
every  form  of  buccal  ulceration,  as  ulcerative  stomatitis , aphthae  (follicular  stomatitis), 


POTASSII  CIILORAS. 


1293 


gangrenous  stomatitis , buccal  and  pharyngeal  diphtheria , and  the  sore  mouth  produced  by 
chronic  arsenical  poisoning.  It  is  of  utility  in  burns  when  applied  in  a solution  of  4 or  5 
o-rains  to  the  ounce,  and  a saturated  solution  has  been  used  in  enema  for  inflamed  haemor- 
rhoids. Although  the  contrary  has  been  asserted,  it  is  utterly  useless  in  an  affection 
often  confounded  with,  but  very  different  from,  diphtheria — thrush  or  muguet , which  is  a 
parasitic  growth  from  decomposed  milk.  It  has  been  used  internally,  and  also  topically 
by  atomized  inhalation  and  in  simple  solution,  for  the  treatment  of  croup  (pseudo-mem- 
branous laryngitis),  and  although  it  may  in  a slight  degree  tend  to  soften  the  membrane, 
its  favorable  influence  on  the  issue  of  the  disease  is  not  well  established. 

Potassium  chlorate,  which  had  been  used  by  Isambert  in  the  treatment  of  diphtheria 
with  no  radical  advantage,  was  subsequently  employed  by  Seeligmuller,  who  in  pub- 
lishing his  results  declared  it  a specific.  He  prescribed  a saturated  solution  of  the  salt, 
or  1 part  to  20  of  water,  to  be  given  in  spoonful  doses  every  hour  or  two  hours,  day 
and  night,  without  intermission.  In  1877  he  wrote  as  follows  : “ During  the  five  years 
that  I have  ordered  no  other  medicine  against  diphtheria  besides  our  saturated  solution, 
this  remedy  has  proved  successful  in  all  cases  of  diphtheria,  except  a few  that  were 
neglected  in  the  beginning,  in  which  the  blood  was  already  profoundly  altered,  and  sys- 
temic poisoning  had  occurred  when  I was  consulted.”  He  dwells  upon  the  necessity  of 
giving  no  food  or  drink  immediately  after  its  administration,  lest  the  solution  be  too 
quickly  removed,  and  emphatically  asserts  there  is  no  need  of  local  applications  besides, 
“ the  internal  medication  alone  being  sufficient  in  all  cases.”  He,  however,  recognizes  its 
debilitating  influence  on  the  heart’s  action,  and  alludes  to  one  case  in  which  it  caused 
death  by  gastric  irritation.  Yon  Becker,  physician  to  the  Children’s  Hospital  in  Vienna 
(1877),  condemns  the  notion  that  the  medicine  is  a specific  for  diphtheria,  and  warns 
against  the  danger  of  giving  it  to  young  children,  adding  that  while  it  is  the  mildest,  it  is 
also  the  least  efficient,  of  disinfecting  agents.  Dr.  A.  Jacobi  of  New  York  spoke  of  it 
in  1875  in  very  similar  terms,  and  in  1879  repeated  that  it  was  useful  rather  as  a pre- 
ventive than  as  a cure  for  diphtheria.  The  dose,  according  to  him,  for  a child  two  or 
three  years  old  should  not  be  larger  than  Gm.  2 (^ss)  in  twenty-four  hours.  A baby  of 
one  year  or  less  should  not  take  more  than  Gm.  1.33  (gr.  xx)  a day.  The  dose  for  an 
adult  should  not  be  more  than  Gm.  4—8  (gj-ij)  in  the  course  of  twenty-four  hours.  The 
doses  he  recommends  to  be  administered  at  short  intervals,  so  that  their  local  impression 
may  be  maintained.  He  also  describes  the  method  of  Seeligmuller,  in  order  to  “ raise 
his  voice  against  it  for  the  reason  of  its  dangerousness.”  It  should  here  be  mentioned, 
however,  that  Seeligmuller  greatly  reduced  the  doses  of  the  medicine  which  he  prescribed 
(1883).  But  in  the  protest  against  the  original  plan  we  heartily  join,  and  not  only  for 
the  reasons  assigned  by  its  author,  that  the  medicine  is  a powerful  cardiac  sedative  and 
renders  those  who  largely  use  it  liable  to  fatal  nephritis,  but  because,  in  so  far  as  it  does 
good  at  all  in  this  disease,  potassium  chlorate  is  a mere  local  stimulant,  and  diphtheria 
never  yet  was  cured  by  local  applications  merely.  They  may  modify  the  faucial  exuda- 
tion, in  very  slight  cases  may  possibly  prevent  it,  but  they  cannot  reach  that  poisonous 
element  of  the  disease  which  constitutes  its  principal  danger,  and  which  is  only  to  be 
combated  successfully  by  general  stimulants  and  tonics.  Cases  are  reported  of  diph- 
theria cured  by  potassium  chlorate,  iron,  and  food,  and  similar  results  from  the  like 
combination  in  certain  manifestations  of  scrofula.  There  can  be  no  doubt  that  in  all 
of  these  cases  the  chlorate,  so  far  as  it  was  internally  administered,  was  quite  superfluous. 
The  same  remark  applies  to  the  alleged  cure  of  the  haemorrhagic  diathesis  by  this  salt. 

Several  physicians  have  thought  that  a very  dilute  solution  of  the  salt  has  been  ser- 
viceable in  low  types  of  fever,  and  particularly  in  scarlatina,  and  typhoid  fever  ; but  the 
ground  of  this  opinion  has,  so  far,  been  theoretical  rather  than  practical,  and  the  same 
remark  is  perhaps  applicable  to  its  alleged  utility  in  neuralgia.  Another  example  of  the 
illusions  to  which  theoretical  speculations  may  give  rise  is  the  statement  that  in  a case 
of  cardiac  cyanosis  it  maintained  oxygenation  of  the  blood  long  enough  for  the  patient  to 
accommodate  himself  to  the  influence  of  the  malformation  under  which  he  suffered  ; and 
that  in  a case  of  pleural  effusion,  and  in  another  of  pleural  haemorrhage,  it  sustained  life 
while  nature  effected  the  cure.  Nature  probably  did  this  in  both  instances  without  refer- 
ence to  the  chlorate  of  potassium.  On  the  same  principle  have  been  explained  numerous 
cases  of  prevented  miscarriage.  Whether  the  medicine  acted  as  supposed,  or  acted  at  all, 
its  virtues  in  these  respects  are  at  least  testified  to  by  eminent  obstetricians  of  Edinbnrgh. 
According  to  Harkin,  it  increases  the  secretion  of  milk  both  in  man  and  the  lower  animals. 

In  ovarian  dropsy  it  is  thought  to  have  removed  the  disease  or  arrested  its  development 
( Trans , Med.  Soc.  State  of  N.  Y,  1879,  p.  172),  but  its  cures  of  the  sort  are  neither  so 


1294 


POTASSII  CHLORAS. 


numerous  nor  so  well  attested  as  those  of  general  dropsy  from  renal  disease.  Its  diuretic 
operation  has  been  noted  above,  and  its  presence  in  the  kidneys  after  death,  but  whether 
it  acts  as  a direct  stimulant  of  these  organs  or  otherwise,  the  clinical  proof  of  its  efficacy 
in  certain  cases  of  dropsy  appears  to  be  established.  It  has  also  been  thought  useful  in 
chronic  cystitis , possibly  by  a substitutive  or  irritant  action  on  the  bladder. 

The  utility  of  potassium  chlorate  in  the  treatment  of  idcers  of  the  mouth  naturally 
led  to  its  use  in  other  ulcerous  affections,  as  those  which  follow  syphilitic  buhoes  and  other 
abscesses.  Its  cicatrizing  powers  are  unquestionably  very  great.  In  some  cases  of  phage- 
denic sores  the  pulverized  salt  has  arrested  the  progress  of  the  disease.  Enemas  contain- 
ing it  in  a moderately  strong  solution  (gj  to  f^ij-f^iv)  may  be  used  in  chronic  dysentery , 
and  will  tend  materially  to  heal  the  rectal  sores,  while  those  seated  higher  up  in  the  bowel 
may  be  entrusted  to  astringents  or  to  subnitrate  of  bismuth.  An  advantage  which  this 
salt  possesses  as  a dressing  for  gangrenous  sores  and  others  discharging  a fetid  secretion  is 
its  deodorizing  quality  ; it  thus  makes  a suitable  injection  in  ozseva , an  appropriate  gar- 
gle in  certain  cases  of  fetid  breath , etc.  A solution  of  Gm.  4 in  Gm.  16  (60  grains  in  4 
fluidounces)  of  water  may  be  used  for  these  purposes.  In  the  treatment  of  epithelioma  the 
topical  application  of  the  salt  in  strong  solution  has  sometimes  been  followed  by  healing 
of  the  ulcer,  if  that  existed,  and  less  frequently  by  a removal  of  the  tumor.  But  Ver- 
neuil  declared  emphatically  that  epithelioma  was  never  cured  by  this  agent.  He  held 
that  the  cases  of  alleged  cure  were  ulcerated  sudoriparous  adenomas  ( Bull . de  Tlierap ., 
xcix.  515).  Yet  in  1888,  Hyvernaud  claimed  that  of  63  cases  he  had  cured  32,  benefited 
15,  and  failed  to  improve  the  remainder.  He  applied  daily  to  the  sore  a 6 per  cent,  solution 
of  the  salt.  The  treatment  was  continued  for  several  weeks  or  months  ( Med . News , Hi.  412). 

The  dose  of  potassium  chlorate  for  children  under  three  years  of  age  is  about  Gm.  0.30 
(5  grains)  three  times  a day,  and  for  an  adult  from  Gm.  0.60-2  (10  to  30  grains.)  It 
should  be  dissolved  in  hot  water,  and  a sufficient  quantity  of  gum  and  sugar  added  to  sus- 
pend the  undissolved  portion  when  the  liquid  grows  cold.  It  is  best  administered  after 
meals  followed  by  the  free  use  of  watery  drinks.  As  a lotion  from  Gm.  1-2  in  Gm.  32 
(15  to  30  grains  in  an  ounce)  of  water  may  be  used.  The  iodates  of  potassium  and 
sodium  have  been  proposed  as  substitutes  for  the  chlorate.  On  account  of  its  richness 
in  oxygen  it  is  very  apt  to  yield  it  to  other  substances  associated  with  it  ; hence  care  must 
be  taken  that  such  combination  do  not  occur  explosively.  The  bodies  especially  to  be 
excluded  from  combination  with  it  by  friction  are  sulphur,  the  metallic  sulphides,  gly- 
cerin, sugar,  vegetable  powders,  as  tannin,  catechu,  etc.  In  one  case  an  ounce  each  of 
tannic  acid  and  chlorate  of  potassium  had  been  powdered  separately,  and  on  being  imme- 
diately thereafter  mixed  together  an  explosion  occurred,  causing  damage  to  persons  and 
property  (Phila.  Med.  Times , xii.  512). 

Potassium  Chloride,  according  to  Ringer  and  Murell’s  experiments  on  frogs — 1, 
paralyzes  all  nitrogenous  tissues ; 2,  acts  by  an  equal  affinity  for  all  protoplasms,  and 
destroys  the  tissues  in  the  order  of  vital  movement ; 3,  arrests  the  heart ; 4,  by  arresting 
the  circulation  it  depresses  the  reflex  function  of  the  cord  in  the  summer  months,  indi- 
rectly through  arrest  of  the  circulation  in  the  brain.  What  bearing,  if  any,  these  results 
have  upon  the  action  of  potassium  salts  upon  man,  either  physiologically  or  therapeutically, 
does  not  appear.  A case  is  recorded  of  the  death  of  a strong  man  from  taking  Gm.  x 
(150  grains)  of  this  salt  in  divided  doses  ( Phila . Med.  Times,  xiv.  666).  An  analysis  of 
eleven  cases  by  Chataing  shows  that  the  chief  symptoms  of  poisoning  by  this  salt  are  a 
slate-colored  or  jaundiced  skin  ; scanty,  dark,  and  sometimes  albuminous  urine  ; and  in  less 
subacute  cases  diarrhoea  and  vomiting  ( Boston  Med.  and  Surg.Jour.,  Jan.  1888,  p.  52).  It 
would  seem  that  potassium  chloride  is  very  analogous  to  sodium  chloride  in  its  reme- 
dial powers.  It  has  been  called  sal  digestivum  on  this  account ; others  have  attributed 
to  it  nervous  sedative  powers  like  those  of  potassium  bromide,  and  still  others  an  arterial 
sedative  action  like  that  of  potassium  nitrate. 

Potassium  chloride  hus  been  tested  as  a remedy  for  epilepsy  by  Dr.  Seguin,  in  conse- 
quence of  the  assertion  of  Prof.  Binz  that  the  virtue  of  the  potassium  bromide  in  that 
disease  resided  in  its  base.  The  conclusion  arrived  at  was  that  potassium  chloride  is 
not  efficacious  in  the  treatment  of  epilepsy.  The  maximum  dose  of  it  in  twenty -four 
hours  is  said  to  be  Gm.  4-8  (gj— gij). 

Rubidium  Chloride,  according  to  Ricket  ( Archives  gen.,  Dec.  1885,  p.  739),  when 
administered  to  animals  internally  or  subcutaneously,  causes  death  by  exhausting  the 
nervous  system  and  weakening  the  heart’s  action.  The  heart  ceases  to  beat  before  the 
arrest  of  breathing,  and  the  temperature  declines.  The  mode  of  death  is  identical  with 
that  caused  by  potassium  chloride. 


POTASSII  CITRAS.— POTA  SSII  CITE  AS  EFFERVESCENS. 


1295 


POTASSII  CITRAS,  U.  Br.— Potassium  Citrate. 

Kalium  dtricum , Citras  potassicus  s.  kalicus. — Citrate  of  potash , E.  ; Citrate  de  potasse, 
Fr. ; Kaliumcitrat , Citronsaures  Kali,  G. 

Formula  K3C6H507.H20.  Molecular  weight  323.59. 

Preparation.  — Take  of  Potassium  Carbonate  8 ounces  ora  sufficiency  ; Citric  Acid, 
in  crystals,  6 ounces  or  a sufficiency  ; Distilled  Water  2 pints  (Imperial).  Dissolve  the 
citric  acid  in  the  water,  add  the  potassium  carbonate  gradually,  and  if  the  solution  be  not 
neutral  make  it  so  by  the  cautious  addition  of  the  acid  or  of  the  carbonate ; then  filter, 
and  evaporate  to  dryness,  stirring  constantly  after  a pellicle  has  begun  to  form  till  the 
salt  granulates.  Triturate  in  a dry,  warm  mortar,  and  preserve  the  powder  in  stoppered 
bottles. — Br. 

The  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia  (1870)  had  a similar  process,  directing  14  parts  of  potassium 
bicarbonate  and  10  parts  of  citric  acid.  The  solution  should  be  heated  to  facilitate  the 
extrication  of  the  carbon  dioxide. 

The  potassium  of  the  bicarbonate  or  carbonate  unites  with  the  citric  acid,  forming 
potassium  citrate,  while  carbon  dioxide  is  given  off;  3KHC03 -f-  H3C6H507.II20  yields 
K3C6H5Ot  + 3C02  + 4H20.  On  evaporating  the  clear  solution  the  heat  should  not  be  per- 
mitted to  rise  high  enough  to  burn  the  salt  ; and  continued  stirring  is  necessary  toward 
the  end  of  the  process  to  prevent  the  salt  from  forming  a hard  layer  on  the  bottom  of 
the  vessel  and  to  obtain  it  in  a granular  condition.  When  dry  it  may  be  triturated  in  a 
warm  mortar,  and  may  thus  be  rendered  uniformly  pulverulent. 

Properties. — Potassium  citrate  is  a white  granular,  inodorous  powder  having  a 
neutral  or  faintly  alkaline  reaction  and  a saline  and  slightly  alkaline  (feebly  acid,  Br .) 
taste.  It  is  deliquescent  on  exposure,  dissolves  in  0.6  parts  of  water  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.) 
(IT.  &),  and  is  more  freely  soluble  in  boiling  water.  It  is  insoluble  in  absolute  alcohol, 
and  forms  with  dilute  alcohol  an  aqueous  solution  upon  which  a stronger  alcohol  floats. 
Its  solution  gives  a white  crystalline  precipitate  with  a saturated  solution  of  sodium 
bitartrate,  but  it  remains  clear  on  the  addition  of  calcium  chloride  till  it  is  boiled,  when 
a white  precipitate  of  calcium  citrate  takes  place,  which  is  readily  soluble  in  acetic  acid. 
From  its  concentrated  solution  it  may  be  procured  in  transparent  needles  which  have  the 
above  composition  and  contain  II20  — 5.55  per  cent.  This  water  of  crystallization  is  not 
completely  expelled  until  the  heat  is  raised  to  about  200°  C.  (392°  F.),  a portion  being 
retained  by  the  salt  as  prepared  by  the  above  process.  At  about  230°  C.  (446°  F.)  the 
salt  begins  to  turn  brown,  and  at  a higher  temperature  is  completely  decomposed,  inflam- 
mable vapors  having  the  odor  of  burnt  sugar  being  given  off,  while  potassium  carbonate 
remains  behind  mixed  with  charcoal,  which  is  with  difficulty  completely  consumed  by 
continued  heating.  The  salt,  heated  with  strong  sulphuric  acid,  yields  a brown  liquid, 
gives  off  an  inflammable  gas  (carbonic  oxide),  and  evolves  the  odor  of  acetic  acid.  “ If 
5.4  Gm.  of  potassium  citrate  are  ignited  until  gases  cease  to  be  evolved,  the  alkaline 
residue  should  require  for  complete  neutralization  not  less  than  50  Cc.  of  the  volumetric 
solution  of  sulphuric  acid  (corresponding  to  100  per  cent,  of  the  pure  potassium  citrate).” — 
IT.  S.  This  test  recognizes  a salt  containing  5.55  per  cent,  or  less  of  water,  while  the 
Br.  P.  requires  the  anhydrous  salt,  of  which  102  grains,  heated  to  redness  until  gases 
cease  to  be  evolved,  leave  an  alkaline  residue  requiring  for  exact  neutralization  1000 
grain-measures  of  the  volumetric  solution  of  oxalic  acid. 

Tests. — The  aqueous  solution  of  the  salt  should  not  have  an  acid  reaction  to  test- 
paper,  and  should  not  effervesce  on  the  addition  of  acetic  acid  (absence  of  carbonate)  or 
produce  with  it  a crystalline  precipitate  (absence  of  tartrate).  The  precipitates  pro- 
duced by  barium  chloride  and  silver  nitrate  should  be  completely  soluble  in  dilute  nitric 
acid. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  medicinal  virtues  of  this  salt  are  described  under  the  head 
of  Solution  of  Potassium  Citrate,  in  which  form  it  is  most  usually  prescribed.  In 
solution  it  is  an  arterial  sedative  and  a diaphoretic  habitually  used  in  febrile  affections. 
Unduly  acid  urine  becomes  neutral  or  alkaline  under  its  administration.  Its  utility  in 
fever  is  increased  by  adding  to  its  solution  spirit  of  nitrous  ether  or  antimonial  wine. 
The  dose  of  the  citrate  of  potassium  is  Gm.  1.20-4  (gr.  xx-lx). 

POTASSII  CITRAS  EFFERVESCENS,  XT.  S. — Effervescent  Potas- 
sium Citrate. 

Preparation. — Citric  Acid,  63  Gm. ; Potassium  Bicarbonate,  90  Gm. ; Sugar,  47 


1296 


POTASSII  CYANWUM. 


Gm.  Powder  the  ingredients  separately,  and  mix  them  thoroughly  in  a warm  mortar. 
Dry  the  resulting  uniform  paste  rapidly  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  120°  C.  (248° 
F.),  and  when  it  is  perfectly  dry  reduce  it  to  a powder  of  the  desired  degree  of  fineness. 
Keep  the  product  in  well-stoppered  bottles. — U.  S. 

To  make  4 av.  ozs.  of  effervescent  potassium  citrate  use  552  grains  of  citric  acid,  788 
grains  of  potassium  bicarbonate,  and  410  grains  of  sugar. 

From  the  equation  in  the  preceding  article  it  will  be  seen  that  one  molecule  of  citric 
acid  requires  8 molecules  of  potassium  bicarbonate  for  complete  neutralization  and  hence 
90  Gm.  of  the  latter  salt  will  require  practically  63  (62.92-f-)  Gm.  of  citric  acid,  for 
299.64  : 209.5  : : 90  : x (62.92-f).  Upon  solution  of  the  effervescent  salt  in  water,  the 
carbonic  acid  present  renders  the  taste  agreeably  acidulous  and  refreshing.  The  temper- 
ature prescribed  by  the  Pharmacopoeia  must  not  be  exceeded,  to  avoid  fusion  and  sub- 
sequent decomposition,  which  would  color  the  mixture  and  develop  a disagreeable  bitter- 
ish taste. 

Uses. — This  is  one  of  the  several  forms  of  effervescing  draught,  and  is  recommended 
only  by  the  convenience  of  its  administration.  It  is  a mild  laxative  in  the  dose  of  Gm. 
6 (gr.  xc),  dissolved  in  a tumbler  of  water. 

POTASSII  CYANIDUM,  U.  S.,  Br.— Potassium  Cyanide. 

Kalium  cyanatum,  Cyanuretum  potassicum  s.  kalicum. — Cyanure  de  potassium,  Fr. ; 
Kaliumcyanid,  Cyankalium , G. 

Formula  KCy  or  KCN.  Molecular  weight  65.01. 

Preparation. — Mix  Exsiccated  Potassium  Ferrocyanide  8 parts  with  pure  Potassium 
Carbonate  3 parts,  and  throw  the  mixture  into  a deep  iron  crucible  previously  heated  to 
dull  redness.  Maintain  the  temperature  until  effervescence  ceases  and  the  fused  mass 
concretes,  of  a pure  white  color,  upon  a warm  glass  rod  dipped  into  it.  Then  pour  out 
the  liquid  carefully  into  a shallow  dish  to  solidify,  ceasing  to  pour  before  the  salt  becomes 
contaminated  with  the  precipitated  iron.  Break  up  the  mass  while  yet  warm,  and  keep 
the  pieces  in  a well-stoppered  bottle. 

This  process  was  proposed  by  F.  and  E.  Rogers  (1834),  and  is  generally  followed  in 
preparing  potassium  cyanide  on  the  large  scale.  The  reaction  is  explained  by  the  equa- 
tion 2K4FeCye  + 2K2C03  = lOKCy  + 2KCyO  -f  Fe2  -f-  2C02,  showing  that,  besides 
cyanide,  potassium  cyanate  is  also  formed,  carbon  dioxide  is  evolved,  and  iron  is  separated 
in  the  metallic  state : the  cyanate  may  be  removed  by  means  of  alcohol  or  carbon  disul- 
phide. Both  salts  must  be  well  dried  before  they  are  mixed,  otherwise  considerable 
ammonia  is  given  off" ; and  if  the  carbonate  is  contaminated  with  sulphate,  the  fused 
mass  will  contain  a corresponding  amount  of  potassium  sulphide.  A portion  of  the  prod- 
uct remains  in  the  crucible  with  the  iron,  but  if  it  is  dissolved  with  water  it  becomes 
contaminated  again  with  potassium  ferrocyanide,  which  may  be  regenerated  by  digestion 
with  sulphide  of  iron  and  crystallization  to  free  it  from  potassium  sulphide. 

A less  profitable  process  consists  in  heating  dry  potassium  ferrocyanide  to  low  red- 
ness, and  in  excluding  the  air  until  the  residue  has  cooled.  Nitrogen  is  liberated  and 
escapes,  and  the  potassium  cyanide  remains  mixed  with  carbide  of  iron  ; K4FeCy6  yields 
4KCN  + FeC2  + Na. 

Potassium  cyanide  of  the  purity  required  by  the  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia  is  best  prepared 
by  generating  hydrocyanic  acid  from  2 parts  of  potassium  ferrocyanide  with  the  requisite 
quantity  of  sulphuric  acid  (see  page  63),  and  conducting  the  gas  into  a solution  of  1 part 
of  potassium  hydroxide  in  5 or  6 parts  of  strong  alcohol ; the  bulky  crystalline  precipi- 
tate is  drained  upon  a funnel,  washed  with  strong  alcohol,  and  dried  between  bibulous 
paper  at  a moderate  heat. 

Properties. — Thus  prepared,  it  is  a white  granular  powder  consisting  of  minute 
transparent  cubes,  or  after  melting  at  a dull  red  heat  it  forms  on  cooling  a white  opaque 
crystalline  mass.  When  perfectly  dry  it  is  inodorous,  but  when  moist  it  is  decomposed 
by  the  carbon  dioxide  of  the  atmosphere  and  has  the  odor  of  hydrocyanic  acid.  It  has  an 
alkaline  and  bitter  taste,  reacts  strongly  alkaline  upon  test-papers,  is  deliquescent  on 
exposure,  and  is  very  freely  soluble  in  water,  but  is  nearly  insoluble  in  absolute  alcohol. 
80  parts  of  boiling  90  per  cent,  alcohol  dissolve  1 part  of  the  cyanide  ; weaker  alcohol 
dissolves  it  in  larger  proportion.  The  aqueous  solution  dissolves  iron,  zinc,  copper,  and 
nickel,  with  the  evolution  of  hydrogen,  and  in  the  presence  of  oxygen  also  silver  and 
gold.  The  solution  yields  with  a saturated  solution  of  sodium  bitartrate  a white  crys- 
talline precipitate,  and  with  silver  nitrate  a white  curdy  precipitate  insoluble  in  nityic 


POTASSII  CYAN  ID  UM. 


1297 


acid,  but  readily  soluble  in  ammonia  and  in  excess  of  potassium  cyanide.  The  aqueous 
solution  is  decomposed  on  exposure  to  the  air,  absorbs  carbon  dioxide,  becomes  brown, 
and  deposits  a dark-brown  precipitate;  on  boiling  it  is  partly  decomposed,  yielding 
ammonia  and  potassium  formate.  The  salt  fused  in  contact  with  the  air  is  partly  oxidized 
to  cyanate.  and  if  fused  with  sulphur  yields  potassium  sulphocyanate. 

Impure  potassium  cyanide,  as  obtained  by  the  first  process,  and  which  is  extensively 
used  in  the  arts,  has  similar  properties,  but  is  in  white  opaque  pieces.  When  dissolved 
in  water  the  cyanate  contained  in  it  is  gradually  decomposed,  with  the  formation  of  potas- 
sium and  ammonium  carbonates  ; 2KCNO  + 4H20  yields  K2C03  -f  (NII4)2C03.  In  the 
pure  state  potassium  cyanate  crystallizes  in  a form  similar  to  that  of  the  chlorate ; it  is 
inodorous,  and  has  a saline  taste  resembling  that  of  saltpetre  ; it  yields  with  silver 
nitrate  a white  precipitate  which  is  soluble  in  ammonia  and  is  readily  decomposed  by 
heat. 

Tests. — The  impurities  likely  to  be  present  in  medicinal  potassium  cyanide  are  car- 
bonate and  chloride.  A solution  of  the  salt  in  5 parts  of  water  should  not  effervesce 
with  hydrochloric  acid,  or  should  merely  disengage  isolated  gas-bubbles.  A few  drops 
of  the  aqueous  solution  give  with  silver  nitrate  test-solution  a white  precipitate,  which 
is  soluble  in  an  excess  of  the  solution  of  potassium  cyanide,  also  in  ammonia-water,  and 
in  concentrated  nitric  acid  (distinction  from  silver  chloride).  If  5 Cc.  of  the  solution  be 
shaken  with  a few  drops  of  ferrous  sulphate  test-solution,  and  a slight  excess  of  hydro- 
chloric acid  then  added,  a precipitate  of  Prussian  blue  will  be  produced.  The  aqueous 
solution  (1  in  20)  should  not  produce  more  than  a slight  effervescence  on  the  addition 
of  diluted  hydrochloric  acid  (limit  of  carbonate).  After  the  acid  has  been  added  in 
slight  excess,  a drop  of  ferric  chloride  test-solution  should  produce  neither  a blue 
(absence  of  ferrocyanide)  nor  a red  color  (sulphocyanate).” — U.  S.  On  heating  to  red- 
ness a mixture  of  1 part  of  the  salt  with  3 parts  of  ammonium  carbonate,  dissolving  the 
residue  in  water,  and  acidulating  with  nitric  acid,  the  solution  should  give  no  (or  only  a 
faint)  turbidity  with  silver  nitrate.  The  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia  requires  the  salt  to  con- 
tain at  least  90  (94.9,  Bri)  per  cent,  of  potassium  cyanide,  which  is  ascertained  as  follows  : 
“ If  0.65  Gm.  of  potassium  cyanide  be  dissolved  in  12  Cc.  of  water,  and  volumetric  solu- 
tion of  silver  nitrate  be  gradually  added,  the  precipitate  first  formed  should  dissolve  on 
stirring,  and  a permanent  precipitate  should  not  appear  until  at  least  45  Cc.  (47.45  Cc., 
BrA)  of  the  volumetric  solution  have  been  used.” 

Action  and  Uses. — The  action  of  potassium  cyanide  is  identical  with  that  of 
hydrocyanic  acid,  for  which  it  may  be  substituted.  A solution  of  it  applied  to  the 
tongue  causes  a sensation  of  coldness,  followed  by  irritation  and  constriction  of  the 
fauces,  and  if  allowed  to  remain  in  contact  with  the  skin,  it  is  apt  to  excite  a papular 
and  even  a vesicular  eruption,  and  in  powder  slightly  moistened  or  incorporated  with 
lard  it  may  produce  an  eschar.  In  substance  or  solution  applied  to  the  broken  skin  it 
may  cause  toxical  symptoms.  Internally  it  has  been  fatal  in  doses  of  from  3 to  5 grains, 
but  recovery  has  occurred  from  the  effects  of  from  15  to  20  grains  of  the  salt  taken  on 
a full  stomach  ( Edinb . Med.  Jour.,  xxxi.  85).  The  employment  of  this  salt  in  photog- 
raphy has  of  late  years  greatly  multiplied  the  number  of  cases  of  poisoning  by  its  use. 
The  symptoms  produced  by  it  in  such  cases  are  insensibility,  muscular  spasm  or  convul- 
sion, a cold,  clammy,  and  pale  skin,  glistening  eyes  and  dilated  pupils,  stertorous  breath- 
ing, fixed  jaws,  foam  on  the  lips,  feeble  or  insensible  pulse  of  the  heart  and  arteries,  and 
death  in  convulsion  or  by  asthenia.  On  examination,  the  body  is  rigid,  the  face  pale- 
blue,  the  eyes  bright,  the  cavities  exhale  the  odor  of  hydrocyanic  acid,  the  lungs  are 
congested,  the  blood  liquid,  the  auricles  may  be  full  and  the  ventricles  empty,  the  brain 
is  engorged,  and  also  the  lining  membrane  of  the  stomach,  which  presents  a dark -red 
color  streaked  by  the  darker  veins.  In  a word,  its  effects  are,  as  above  stated,  those  of 
hydrocyanic  acid.  (Compare  Acid.  Hydrocyanicum  Dilutum.)  Potassium  cyanide 
is  used  chiefly  as  a topical  application  for  the  relief  of  headaches  associated  with  dys- 
pepsia or  with  imperfect  menstruation,  or  such  as  are  generally  included  under  the  term 
sick  headache.  It  has  also  been  employed  internally,  and  it  is  asserted  with  remarkable 
success,  in  the  treatment  of  acute  articular  rheumatism,  but  the  testimony  appears  to  us 
insufficient.  This  treatment  is  vaunted  by  Dr.  Luton  of  Rheims  (Bull,  de  Ther., 
lxxxviii.  1),  who  prescribed  the  cyanide  in  solution  to  the  extent  of  nearly  Gm.  0.10  (2 
grains)  in  the  course  of  a day,  or  in  pills  of  Gm.  0.06  (1  grain)  each,  one  or  two  of 
which  were  administered  within  the  same  space  of  time.  He  stated  that  he  did  not  in 
any  case  exceed  the  daily  quantity  of  Gm.  0.15  (gr.  iiss),  and,  finding  that  it  occasioned 
colic  and  vertigo,  he  resumed  the  smaller  doses.  If  used  internally  at  all,  for  which  we 
82 


1298 


POTASSII  ET  SODII  TARTBAS. 


can  discover  no  necessity,  it  should  not  be  prescribed  at  first  in  doses  exceeding  Gm.  0.008 
(f  grain).  A solution  of  from  2 to  4 grains  of  the  salt  in  an  ounce  of  water  may  be 
applied  as  a lotion  to  the  head  and  as  the  most  rapid  means  of  removing  stains  produced 
by  silver  nitrate.  It  is,  however,  too  dangerous  an  agent  to  be  used  without  extreme  cau- 
tion. (For  an  example  of  its  fatal  use  through  mischance  see  Edinb.  Med.  Jour .,  xxvii. 
506).  Atropine  is  said  to  be  antidotal  to  this  compound. 


POTASSII  ET  SODII  TARTRAS,  U.  S.— Potassium  and  Sodium  Tar- 
trate. 

Soda  tartarata , Br. ; Sodse  et  potassse  tartras , Sodse  potassio-tartras,  Tartarus  natrona- 
tus , P.  G. ; Natro-hali  tartaricum , Sal  poly chrestum  Seignetti , Tartras  potassico-sodicus. — 
Rochelle  salt , Tartrated  soda , E. ; Sel  de  Seignette , Soude  tartarisee , Fr. ; Seignettesalz.  G. 

Formula  KNaC4H406.4H20.  Molecular  weight  281.51. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Sodium  Carbonate  12  ounces ; Acid  Potassium  Tartrate,  in 
fine  powder,  16  ounces;  Boiling  Water  4 pints  (Imperial).  Dissolve  the  sodium  carbon- 
ate in  the  water,  add  gradually  the  acid  potassium  tartrate,  and  if,  after  being  boiled  for 
a few  minutes,  the  liquid  has  an  acid  or  alkaline  reaction,  add  a little  carbonate  or  acid 
tartrate  till  a neutral  solution  is  obtained.  Boil  and  filter,  concentrate  the  liquor  till  a 
pellicle  forms  on  the  surface,  and  set  it  aside  to  crystallize.  More  crystals  may  be 
obtained  by  again  evaporating  as  before. — Br. 

Since  the  molecular  weight  of  potassium  bitartrate  is  187.67,  and  i molecule  of  crys- 
tallized sodium  carbonate  weighs  142.73,  16  parts  of  the  former  require  12£  parts  of  the 
latter  if  both  salts  are  chemically  pure.  Owing  to  the  presence  of  calcium  tartrate  in 
the  one,  and  the  loss  of  water  of  crystallization  by  the  other,  the  proportions  required 
must  vary  somewhat  with  different  samples  of  the  commercial  salts ; but  there  is  no  diffi- 
culty in  rendering  the  solution  exactly  neutral  if  the  above  directions  are  followed.  The 
reaction  between  the  two  salts  is  explained  by  the  equation  2KHC4H406  -f  Na2C03  = 
2KNaC4H406  -f-  C02  + H20  : besides  the  double  salt,  water  and  carbon  dioxide  are  formed, 
the  latter  escaping  with  effervescence.  It  is  advisable  to  keep  the  neutralized  mixture 
for  some  time  at  a temperature  of  about  60°  C.  (140°  F.),  when  much  of  the  calcium 
tartrate  will  be  deposited,  and  may  be  removed  by  filtration,  Large  and  well-formed 
crystals  are  obtained  if  the  solution  is  very  slowly  evaporated. 

This  double  salt  was  first  obtained  in  1672  by  Pierre  Seignette,  an  apothecary  of 
Bochelle  in  France,  and  was  sold  as  a secret  remedy.  But  in  1731  the  process  for  obtain- 
ing it  was  communicated  by  Boulduc  to  the  French  Academy,  and  by  C.  J.  Geoffroy  to 
Sloane  of  London. 

Properties. — Potassium  and  sodium  tartrate  crystallizes  in  large  perfectly  trans- 
parent, inodorous,  six-  or  eight-sided  prisms,  or  more  frequently  half-prisms,  of  the  right 
rhombic  order.  If  crystallized  from  a solution  containing  calcium 
tartrate,  they  are  white  and  more  or  less  opaque.  In  our  commerce 
the  salt  is  most  generally  met  with  in  the  state  of  white  powder. 
It  has  a mild  saline,  faintly  bitterish,  and  cooling  taste,  is  slightly 
efflorescent  in  dry  air,  and  dissolves  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  in  1.4  parts 
of  water,  and  in  less  than  1 part  of  boiling,  but  is  nearly  insoluble 
in  alcohol. — U.  S.  The  salt  melts  in  its  water  of  crystallization 
when  carefully  heated  to  about  75°  C.  (167°  F.),  and  after  cooling 
remains  liquid  and  soft  for  some  time.  By  the  heat  of  the  water- 
bath  it  loses  19  per  cent,  of  water  of  crystallization,  and  at  130°  C. 
(266°  F.),  or,  according  to  Fresenius,  near  215°  C.  (419°  F.).  alto- 
gether 25.5  per  cent.  At  a higher  heat  it  is  decomposed,  gives  off 
inflammable  gases  which  have  the  odor  of  burnt  sugar,  and  leaves 
charcoal,  which  contains  the  potassium  and  sodium  carbonates,  and 
imparts  to  a non-luminous  flame  a yellow  color,  appearing  red  when 
viewed  through  a blue  glass.  The  concentrated  aqueous  solution  yields,  on  the  addition 
of  hydrochloric  or  acetic  acid,  a crystalline  precipitate  of  cream  of  tartar ; with  barium 
chloride,  a white  precipitate  soluble  in  nitric  acid  ; and  with  silver  nitrate,  a white  pre- 
cipitate, turning  black  on  boiling. 

Tests. — The  solution  in  10  parts  of  distilled  water  should  be  clear,  of  neutral  reaction 
to  test-paper,  and  should  produce  no  precipitate  or  turbidity  with  ammonium  oxalate  (cal- 
cium salt)  or  with  ammonium  sulphide  (metals)  ; and  when  acidulated  with  nitric  acid 
and  filtered  from  the  precipitated  acid  potassium  tartrate,  the  clear  solution  should  not  be 


Fig.  229. 


Crystal  of  Rochelle  Salt. 


POTASSII  FERROCYANIDUM. 


1299 


affected  by  barium  chloride  (sulphate).  Although  ammonia  is  not  likely  to  be  present  in 
a salt  having  the  above  properties,  the  U.  S.  and  P.  G.  direct  testing  for  it  with  caustic 
potassa.  “ If  0.36  Gm.  of  the  salt  be  dissolved  in  9 Cc.  of  water,  then  1 Cc.  of  nitric 
acid  and  0.2  Cc.  of  decinormal  silver  nitrate  solution  be  added,  and  the  mixture  filtered, 
the  filtrate  should  remain  clear  upon  further  addition  of  silver  nitrate  solution  (limit  of 
chloride).  If  1.41  Gm.  of  potassium  and  sodium  tartrate  be  completely  decomposed  by 
ignition,  the  alkaline  residue  should  require  for  complete  neutralization  not  less  than  10 
Cc.  of  normal  sulphuric  acid  (corresponding  to  100  per  cent,  of  the  pure  salt),  methyl- 
orange  being  used  as  indicator.” — U.  S. 

Action  and  Uses. — In  doses  of  Gm.  16-32  (gss-j)  it  operates  as  a gentle  and  cool- 
ing laxative,  and  seldom  disagrees  with  the  stomach.  It  is  particularly  acceptable  in 
Seidlitz  powders,  which  form  an  effervescing  draught.  In  small  and  repeated  doses  it 
renders  the  urine  alkaline.  It  is  not  incompatible  with  tartar  emetic,  with  which  it  has 
sometimes  been  used  as  an  emeto-cathartic,  and  also,  in  small  doses,  as  a febrifuge.  It 
may  be  given  as  a purgative  in  doses  of  about  Gm.  32  (gj).  As  an  antilithic,  Gm.  4-8 
(33-ij)  may  be  taken,  largely  diluted,  several  times  a day. 


POTASSII  FERROCYANIDUM,  U.  S.,  Br.— Potassium  Ferrocyanide. 

Potassae,  prussias  flava,  Kalium  ferrocyanatum , Kalium  borussicum,  Cyanuretmn  ferroso- 
potassicum. — Yellow  prussiate  of  potash , E. ; Prussiate  jaune  de  potasse,  Ferrocyanure  de 
potassium , Fr. ; Ferrocyankalium , Blutlaugensalz , G. 


Formula  K4FeCy6.3H20  ==  K4Fe(CN)6.3H20.  Molecular  weight  421.76. 

Preparation. — This  salt  was  discovered  by  Macquer  (1752)  in  boiling  Prussian  blue 
with  caustic  potassa.  The  iron  contained  in  it  was  for  a long  time  supposed  to  be  an 
impurity,  even  after  Berthollet  (1787)  had  shown  it  to  be  one  of  its  essential  constituents. 
The  salt  is  now  extensively  prepared  by  heating  in  suitable  iron  vessels  potassium  car- 
bonate, which  is  free  from  sulphate,  with  a mixture  composed  of  1 part  of  iron  filings  and 
28  to  33  parts  of  charcoal  obtained  from  blood,  hoofs,  horn,  hides,  leather,  or  similar  ani- 
mal substances  rich  in  nitrogen.  It  is  less  advantageous  to  employ  these  substances  in  the 
uncharred  condition.  100  parts  of  potassium  carbonate  require  about  75  or  80  parts  of  the 
charcoal  or  about  100  parts  of  the  animal  matter.  An  evolution  of  carbon  dioxide  and 
inflammable  gases  takes  place  after  each  addition  to  the  melted  mass,  and  when  the  whole 
fuses  quietly  the  “ melt,”  as  it  is  termed,  is  ladled  out,  cooled,  dissolved  in  water,  decanted 
from  the  sediment,  and  crystallized.  Before  it  enters  commerce  it  requires  purification 
by  recrystallization  from  water.  The  above  quantities  yield  about  120  parts  of  melt  and 
about  25  parts  of  crystallized  potassium  ferrocyanide.  The  insoluble  portion  of  the  melt 
consists  of  charcoal,  iron,  iron  sulphide,  calcium  phosphate,  and  silica.  This  black  resi- 
due is  used  as  manure,  and  is  said  to  be  destructive  to  the  larvae  of  insects.  The  mother- 
liquors,  which  furnish  no  longer  well-defined  crystals,  are  evaporated  and  used  in  another 
operation  ; they  contain  the  excess  of  potash  employed  ; also  potassium  sulphocyanate  in 
case  the  potash  was  contaminated  with  sulphate.  This  salt  is  extensively  manufactured 
in  the  United  States. 

Properties. — Potassium  ferrocyanide  crystallizes  from  water  in  large  inodorous, 
lemon-yellow,  four-sided  tables  or  prisms,  which  are  translucent  and  rather  soft  and 

It  has  the 


Fig.  230. 


friable,  and,  being  crystallized  on  a cord,  usually  cohere  in  columnar  masses, 
specific  gravity  1.83,  a sweetish  and  saline  taste,  and  dissolves  with  a 
yellow  color  in  4 parts  of  water  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  and  in  2 parts  of 
hot  water,  the  salt  being  precipitated  from  this  solution  by  alcohol  in 
pale-yellow,  pearly  scales.  The  salt  is  permanent  at  a low  tempera- 
ture, but  near  50°  C.  (122°  F.)  it  begins  to  lose  water  of  crystal- 
lization, of  which  it  contains  12.8  per  cent.,  arid  it  becomes  anhydrous 
at  100°  C.  (212°  F.),  leaving  a white  friable  mass  which  melts  below 
red  heat,  and  at  a higher  temperature  is  decomposed  into  nitrogen 
and  a mixture  of  potassium  cyanide  and  carbide  of  iron.  Exposed 
to  light  in  the  presence  of  moisture,  it  is  slowly  decomposed,  with  the 
formation  of  Prussian  blue.  Its  solution  has  a neutral  reaction  and  produces  a dark-blue 
precipitate  with  ferric  salts,  a bluish-white  precipitate  (becoming  dark-blue  in  contact  with 
air)  with  ferrous  salts;  a brown-red  precipitate  with  salts  of  copper  ; and  white  precipi- 
tates with  lead  acetate  and  mercuric  chloride ; also  a white  crystalline  precipitate 
with  a saturated  solution  of  sodium  bitartrate.  Heated  with  dilute  sulphuric  acid,  hydro- 
cyanic acid  is  given  off.  Alkalies  fail  to  precipitate  the  iron  from  its  solution,  but  on 


Crystal  of  Potassium 
Ferrocyanide. 


1300 


POTASSII  HYPOPH OSPHIS. 


fusing  the  salt  with  potassium  carbonate,  potassium  cyanide  is  formed  and  metallic  iron 
is  separated. 

Tests, — The  concentrated  solution  of  the  salt  should  not  effervesce  on  the  addition  of 
sulphuric  acid  (absence  of  carbonate).  “ The  aqueous  solution  (1  in  20),  acidulated  with 
hydrochloric  acid,  should,  upon  the  addition  of  barium  chloride  test-solution,  remain  clear, 
or  at  most  show  but  a trifling  turbidity  (limit  of  sulphate).  If  a mixture  of  0.5  Gm.  of  the 
salt  with  1.5  Gm.  of  pure  potassium  nitrate  and  0.5  Gm.  of  pure,  anhydrous  sodium  car- 
bonate be  heated  to  redness  in  a porcelain  crucible,  the  residue  dissolved  in  water,  the 
filtered  solution  supersaturated  with  nitric  acid,  mixed  with  0.1  Cc.  of  decinormal  silver 
nitrate  solution,  and  again  filtered,  no  turbidity  should  be  produced  in  the  filtrate  by  the 
further  addition  of  silver  nitrate  solution  (limit  of  chloride).  The  precipitate  produced 
in  the  aqueous  solution,  acidulated  with  nitric  acid  by  silver  nitrate  test-solution  should 
be  of  a pure  white  color,  without  a tinge  of  red  (absence  of  ferricyanide).” — U.  S. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Potassium  ferrocyanide  is  used  in  the  preparation  of 
Acid,  hydrocyan,  dilut.,  U.  S.,  Br .,  of  cyanides,  ferrocyanides,  and  of  the  following  salts:  * 

Allied  Salts. — Potassium  Ferricyanide  or  Ferridcyanide,  Red  prussiate  of  potash.  K6Fe2Cy12 
or  K3FeCy6.  On  passing  chlorine  gas  into  a cold  solution  of  potassium  ferrocyanide  the  liquid 
changes  in  color  from  yellow  to  red.  When  it  ceases  to  produce  a blue  precipitate  or  color  with 
ferric  chloride,  it  is  concentrated  and  the  crystals  purified  by  recrystallization.  The  salt  is  in 
dark-red,  transparent  prisms,  has  a saline  and  slightly  astringent  taste,  and  dissolves  in  about 
4 parts  of  cold  water.  On  exposure  to  light  the  solution  is  readily  altered,  ferrocyanide  being 
again  produced,  when  it  will  yield  a blue  precipitate  with  ferric  salt.  The  salt  in  its  fresh  solu- 
tion is  employed  as  a test,  precipitating  dark-blue  with  ferrous,  red-brown  with  mercurous, 
brownish-yellow  with  cupric,  and  orange-colored  wdth  argentic  salts.  It  yields  no  precipitates 
with  ferric,  mercuric,  or  lead  salts. 

Potassium  Sulphocyanate  (Sulphocyanide). — Sulfocyanure  de  potassium,  Fr. ; Kaliumsul- 
focyanat,  Rhodankalium,  G.  Formula  KSCN ; mol.  weight  96.99. — It  is  prepared  by  melting 
together  17  parts  of  potassium  carbonate,  32  parts  of  sulphur,  and  46  parts  of  anhydrous  potas- 
sium ferrocyanide,  and  heating  to  low  redness ; the  cold  mass  is  treated  with  boiling  alcohol. 
The  salt  crystallizes  in  colorless,  four-sided,  striated  prisms,  which  are  inodorous,  have  a pungent 
and  saline  taste,  are  deliquescent  on  exposure,  and  dissolve  readily  in  water  and  in  alcohol.  A 
solution  of  the  salt  is  used  as  a test  for  ferric  salts,  with  which  it  gives  a blood-red  color  which 
is  not  discharged  by  hydrochloric  acid  (difference  from  acetates  and  formates),  but  disappears  on 
the  addition  of  corrosive  sublimate  (difference  from  meconates). 

Sodium  Nitro-prusside,  Na2Fe(CN)5N0.2H20.  It  is  prepared  by  digesting  1 part  of  potas- 
sium ferrocyanide  with  2 parts  of  nitric  acid  and  2 parts  of  water,  until  the  liquid  ceases  to  pro- 
duce a blue  precipitate  with  iron  salts.  On  cooling,  potassium  nitrate  crystallizes,  and  the 
mother-liquor  after  neutralization  with  sodium  carbonate  yields  colorless  crystals  of  potassium 
nitrate  and  red  ones  of  sodium  nitro-prusside ; the  latter  are  recrystallized  from  water.  The 
salt  forms  ruby-colored  rhombic  prisms  which  are  permanent  in  the  air  and  dissolve  in  2J  parts 
of  cold  water,  the  solution  being  decomposed  by  light.  A fragment  of  the  salt  heated  with  an 
oxygenated  volatile  oil  darkens  the  latter,  often  producing  a characteristic  color ; this  reaction  is 
prevented  by  oil  of  turpentine.  In  alkaline  solution  it  is  a delicate  test  for  sulphides,  producing 
with  them  a violet  or  blue  color. 

Action  and  Uses. — Potassium  ferrocyanide  has  been  reputed,  on  very  slender 
authority,  to  possess  active  medicinal  properties,  anodyne,  sedative,  and  astringent.  A 
thorough  investigation  of  its  action  by  Regnauld  and  Hayem  led  them  to  conclude  that 
it  is  inoperative  both  as  a chalybeate  and  as  a sedative,  and  that  it  may  be  administered 
for  weeks  in  the  daily  dose  of  several  grains  without  deranging  the  health  or  altering 
the  composition  of  the  urine.  It  is  used  as  a chemical  test  for  iron,  copper,  and  zinc. 

POTASSH  HYPOPHOSPHIS,  U.  S.— Potassium  Hypophosphite. 

Kalium  hypoph osphorosum , Hypophosphispotassicus  s.  kalicus. — Hypophosphite  de potasse, 
Fr.  ; Kaliumhypopliosphit , Unterphosphorigsaures  Kali , G. 

Formula  KH2P02.  Molecular  weight  103.91. 

Preparation. — This  salt  may  be  prepared  in  a manner  similar  to  that  by  which  cal- 
cium hypophosphite  (see  page  372)  is  obtained.  When  a solution  of  potassa  is  boiled 
with  phosphorus,  potassium  hypophosphite  is  produced,  which  is  freed  from  potassa  by 
passing  carbon  dioxide  into  the  solution,  evaporating,  and  dissolving  the  hypophosphite 
by  alcohol.  It  is  also  yielded  by  the  double  decomposition  of  calcium  hypophosphite 
and  potassium  carbonate,  when  calcium  carbonate  is  precipitated  and  potassium  hypo- 
phosphite remains  in  solution  ; Ca(II2P02)2  + K2C03  yields  CaC03  + 2KH2P02. 

Properties. — It  may  be  obtained  in  hexagonal  tabular  crystals,  but,  being  extremely 
deliquescent  on  exposure,  it  is  usually  seen  in  white,  opaque,  crystalline  masses  or  as  a 


POTASSII  IOBIDUM. 


1301 


white  granular  powder.  It  is  inodorous,  has  a pungent  saline  and  bitterish  taste,  and  a 
neutral  or  faintly  alkaline  reaction,  and  is  very  freely  soluble  in  water  and  diluted  alcohol, 
less  soluble  in  absolute  alcohol,  but  insoluble  in  ether.  “ It  dissolves  in  0.G  part  of  water 
and  in  7.3  parts  of  alcohol  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  in  0.3  part  of  boiling  water  and  in  3.6  parts 
of  boiling  alcohol." — IT.  S.  Heated  to  redness  when  not  in  contact  with  air  or  in  a long 
test-tube,  it  evolves  easily  inflammable  hydrogen  phosphide  burning  with  a white  (bright- 
yellow,  &.  S .)  flame.  According  to  Bammelsberg  (1872),  the  gas  given  off  consists  of 
hydrogen  and  hydrogen  phosphide  and  the  residue  of  potassium  pyrophosphate  and 
metaphosphate.  Heated  in  the  air,  the  salt  burns  with  a yellow  flame,  and  when 
evaporated  with  nitric  acid  or  triturated  or  heated  with  oxidizing  agents  it  detonates 
violently.  When  boiled  with  potassa,  hydrogen  is  given  off ; phosphite,  and  after  the 
solution  becomes  more  concentrated,  phosphate,  of  potassium  is  formed.  The  solution 
yields  with  a saturated  solution  of  sodium  bitartrateTa  white  crystalline  precipitate  of 
cream  of  tartar,  and  with  silver  nitrate,  a white  precipitate  which  rapidly  turns  brown 
and  black,  separating  metallic  silver  ; acidulated  with  hydrochloric  acid,  and  gradually 
added  to  a solution  of  corrosive  sublimate,  it  causes  a white  precipitate  consisting  of 
calomel,  and  on  further  addition  a black  precipitate  of  metallic  mercury. 

Tests. — “ The  aqueous  solution  of  the  salt  (1  in  20)  should  not  effervesce  on  the 
addition  of  an  acid  (absence  of  carbonate),  nor  should  it  be  rendered  turbid  by  ammo- 
nium oxalate  test-solution  (absence  of  calcium).  After  heating  5 Cc.  of  the  aqueous 
solution  (1  in  20)  with  1 Cc.  of  nitric  acid,  the  solution  should  remain  clear  upon  addi- 
tion of  silver  nitrate  test-solution  (absence  of  chloride),  or  of  barium  chloride  test-solu- 
tion (absence  of  sulphate).  Not  more  than  a slight  cloudiness  should  be  produced  in  the 
aqueous  solution  of  the  salt  by  the  addition  of  magnesia  mixture  (limit  of  phosphate). 
If  0.1  Gm.  of  dry  potassium  hypophosphite  be  dissolved  in  10  Cc.  of  water,  then  mixed 
with  7.5  Cc.  of  sulphuric  acid  and  40  Cc.  of  decinormal  potassium  permanganate  solu- 
tion, and  the  mixture  boiled  for  fifteen  minutes,  it  should  not  require  more  than  2 Cc.  of 
decinormal  oxalic  acid  solution  to  discharge  the  red  color  (corresponding  to  at  least  98.7 
per  cent,  of  the  pure  salt).” — U.  S. 

The  oxidizing  effect  of  potassium  permanganate  on  hypophosphites  has  already  been 
explained  under  Calcium  Hypophosphite  (which  see).  From  the  following  equation, 
4K2Mn208  + 10KH2PO,  + 12H2S04  = 10KH2PO4  + 4K2S04  + 8MnS04  + 12H20,  we 
learn  that  1 Cc.  of  decinormal  potassium  permanganate  solution  corresponds  to  0.002598 
Gm.  of  potassium  hypophosphite,  and  therefore  the  38  Cc.  required  in  the  official  test 
will  represent  0.987  Gm.  of  KH2P02,  or  98.7  per  cent. 

Uses. — This  preparation  has  been  especially  recommended  in  the  treatment  of  chronic 
bronchitis , but  there  is  not  sufficient  proof  of  its  efficacy  in  that  or  in  any  other  disease, 
either  alone  or  associated  with  the  other  alkaline  or  earthy  hypophosphites.  The  virtue 
of  the  syrup  of  the  hypophosphites  with  iron  resides  chiefly  in  its  chalybeate  ingredient. 
Dose,  Gm.  0.30-2  (gr.  v-xxx). 


POTASSII  IODIDUM,  U.  S.,  Br.— Potassium  Iodide. 

Kalium  jodatum , P.  G. ; Kali  hydroiodicum , Ioduretum  potassicum , s.  Jcalicum. — lodure 
de  potassium , Fr. ; Jodkalium , G. 

Formula  KI.  Molecular  weight  165.56. 

Preparation. — The  process  recommended  in  the  U.  S.  P.  1870  is  as  follows  : To  a hot 
solution  of  6 ounces  of  potassa  in  3 pints  of  distilled  water  sufficient  iodine  (about  16 
ounces)  is  gradually  added  until  the  liquid  remains  slightly  colored  from  excess  of  iodine  ; 
the  solution  is  concentrated,  2 ounces  of  powdered  charcoal  are  stirred  in,  the  mixture  is 
evaporated  to  dryness,  and  the  powder  heated  for  fifteen  minutes  to  dull  redness  in  an, 
iron  crucible  ; the  salt  is  then  dissolved  in  distilled  water  and  crystallized. 

The  process  of  the  British  Pharmacopoeia  does  not  essentially  differ  from  the  preceding 
except  in  some  of  the  details.  1 gallon  (Imperial)  of  potassa  solution  and  21  ounces  or 
a sufficiency  of  iodine  are  directed  for  the  production  of  a permanent  brown  tint.  The 
liquid  is  evaporated  to  dryness,  the  residue  powdered,  mixed  intimately  with  3 ounces  of 
charcoal,  and  the  mixture,  in  small  quantities  at  a time,  is  thrown  into  a red-hot  crucible. 
When  the  contents  are  fused  they  are  poured  out,  and  after  cooling  dissolved  in  40 
ounces  of  boiling  distilled  water,  and  the  solution  filtered  and  crystallized. 

On  dissolving  iodine  in  solution  of  potassa  a reaction  takes  place  precisely  analogous 
to  that  which  occurs  in  the  action  of  bromine  or  chlorine  upon  the  same  liquid.  (See 
Potassii  Bromidum  and  Potassii  Chloras.)  6KOH  and  3I2  yield  SKI  + KI03  + 


1302 


POTASS II  IOD1DUM. 


3H20.  The  potassium  iodate  may  be  separated  by  evaporating  the  solution  to  dryness 
and  treating  the  residue  with  alcohol,  which  dissolves  the  potassium  iodide  only ; or  it 
may  be  deprived  of  its  oxygen,  and  thus  be  converted  into  iodide.  The  deoxidation  may 
be  effected  in  the  solution  by  means  of  hydrogen  sulphide,  but  some  loss  of  iodine  is 
then  unavoidable,  and  the  salt  is  apt  to  contain  sulphur.  The  saline  mass  left  on  evap- 
oration when  heated  to  redness  gradually  parts  with  its  oxygen,  but  the  reduction  is 
effected  at  a lower  temperature  and  more  rapidly  if  the  mass  had  been  previously  mixed 
with  charcoal,  starch,  sugar,  or  similar  organic  matter.  For  effecting  the  mixing  of  the 
charcoal  with  the  saline  mass  the  first  directions  given  above  are  very  convenient,  but  for 
reducing  the  iodate  it  is  best  to  operate  as  directed  by  the  British  Pharmacopoeia.  If 
the  mixture  in  small  quantities  is  thrown  into  a red-hot  crucible,  each  portion  deflagrates, 
carbonic  oxide  is  given  off,  and  potassium  iodide  formed.  The  sudden  evolution  of  the 
gas  from  a large  quantity  of  the  mixture  heated  together  is  likely  to  occasion  loss.  This 
reaction  is  explained  by  the  equation  KI03  + C3  = KI  -|-  3CO. 

Various  other  processes  have  been  suggested,  and  are  serviceable,  more  particularly  for 
preparing  potassium  iodide  on  a limited  scale.  The  following  deserve  to  be  mentioned : 
Iodine  is  converted  into  hydriodic  acid  by  the  action  of  hydrogen  sulphide,  and  the  acid 
neutralized  by  potassium  carbonate.  Or,  iodide  of  iron  is  first  prepared,  and  the  green 
solution  boiled  with  an  equivalent  quantity  of  potassium  carbonate,  filtered  from  the 
oxide  of  iron,  and  evaporated.  The  iron  will  settle  more  rapidly  if  an  additional  quan- 
tity, equal  to  one-third  of  that  used  in  preparing  the  solution  of  ferrous  iodide,  is  added 
thereto  before  precipitation  by  potassa.  Instead  of  potassa,  Hesse  recommends  decom- 
posing the  solution  by  boiling  with  milk  of  lime  ; the  filtrate  is  freed  from  excess  of  lime 
by  carbon  dioxide,  and  the  calcium  iodide  decomposed  by  a hot  solution  of  potassium 
sulphate ; the  little  calcium  sulphate  remaining  in  the  filtrate  is  decomposed  by  potas- 
sium carbonate,  after  which  the  clear  solution  is  evaporated  to  dryness.  Fuchs  (1865) 
recommended  prolonged  digestion  of  100  parts  of  iodine,  240  of  water,  75  of  potassium 
carbonate,  and  30  of  iron,  until  carbon  dioxide  ceases  to  be  given  off;  the  solution  is 
further  concentrated,  exposed  in  a warm  place  until  all  iron  has  been  converted  into  ferric 
oxide,  then  dried,  heated  to  incipient  redness,  and  extracted  with  water. 

Nearly  all  the  potassium  iodide  consumed  here  is  now  manufactured  in  the  United 
States. 

Properties. — When  entirely  pure,  potassium  iodide  is  in  transparent  colorless  cubes 
of  a neutral  reaction.  This  is  the  salt  directed  by  the  U.  S.  P.,  but  as  generally  met 
with  it  is  crystallized  from  an  alkaline  solution,  and  the  crystals  are  white  and  opaque  or 
merely  translucent,  and  have  a slight  alkaline  reaction.  Crystals  of  similar  appearance 
are  also  obtained,  according  to  Wittstein  (1861),  from  neutral  solutions  at  a somewhat 
elevated  temperature,  and,  according  to  Erlenmayer,  from  very  concentrated  solutions. 
Potassium  iodide  has  a slight  peculiar  odor,  a pungent  saline  afterward  bitterish  taste, 
melts  below  a red  heat  (Gray-Lussac),  and  congeals  on  cooling  to  a pearly  mass.  On 
melting  the  salt  in  contact  with  air  a trace  of  iodate  is  formed,  a little  iodine  given  off, 
and  the  mass  acquires  an  alkaline  reaction  (Petterson,  1870)  ; at  a bright-red  heat  the 
salt  is  slowly  volatilized.  It  is  permanent  in  the  air,  but  in  a damp  atmosphere  or  when 
pf  an  alkaline  reaction  is  somewhat  deliquescent.  It  is  freely  soluble  in  water,  requiring, 
according  to  Mulder  (1864),  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  0.714  (0.75,  U.  S.),  at  30°  C.  (86°  F.) 
0.657,  at  60°  C.  (140°  F.),  0.57,  and  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.),  0.48  (0.5,  U.  S.),  part  of  this 
solvent.  It  is  likewise  soluble  in  alcohol,  requiring  at  the  ordinary  temperature  40  parts 
of  absolute  alcohol,  18  parts  of  alcohol  sp.  gr.  0.820,  12  parts  of  alcohol  sp.  gr.  0.835,  8 
parts  of  alcohol  sp.  gr.  0.850,  and  1J  parts  of  diluted  alcohol.  The  salt  dissolves  in  less 
than  one-half  the  quantities  named  of  boiling  alcohol,  and  on  cooling  crystallizes  partly 
in  needles.  The  aqueous  solution  yields  with  tartaric  acid  or  with  sodium  bitartrate  a 
white  crystalline  precipitate  of  potassium  bitartrate,  and  with  a few  drops  of  chlorine- 
water  liberates  iodine,  which  is  recognized  by  the  blue  color  it  imparts  to  starch-paste  or 
by  the  violet  color  of  its  solution  in  chloroform  or  carbon  disulphide.  On  exposure 
to  sunlight  solutions  of  potassium  iodide  acquire  a yellow  or  brownish  color  from  toe 
liberation  of  iodine,  the  decomposition  being  due  to  the  influence  of  ozone,  according  to 
llouzeau  (1858),  or  to  the  presence  of  carbonic  or  other  acid,  according  to  Bastaudier 
(1876).  The  experiments  of  Papasogli  (1881)  prove  that  sunlight,  both  diffuse  and 
direct,  does  not  decompose  pure  potassium  iodide  or  its  mixture  with  iodate  ; but  carbonic 
anhydride  liberates  from  the  mixture  a small  quantity  of  iodine,  while  at  low  tempera- 
tures it  has  no  effect  upon  either  one  of  the  pure  salts,  yet  at  high  temperatures  separates 
hydriodic  acid  in  solutions  of  the  pure  iodide.  Strong  mineral  acids  liberate  from  the 


POTASS  IT  10  DID  UM. 


1303 


salt  hydriodic  acid  and  iodine.  A mixture  of  the  salt  with  ammonium  chloride  becomes 
moist  and  brown  on  exposure,  and  when  heated  is  decomposed,  potassium  chloride  and 
iodide  being  left  behind.  Raup  observed  that  166  parts  of  the  iodide  dissolved  in  200 
parts  of  water  will  dissolve  253  parts  or  2 atoms  of  iodine,  forming  a dark-red  liquid, 
from  which  water  throws  down  a portion  of  the  iodine.  If  the  salt  is  dissolved  in  about 
thirty  times  its  weight  of  water,  the  solution  takes  up  1 atom  of  iodine.  These  solutions 
are  completely  decolorized  when  agitated  with  ether,  chloroform,  or  carbon  disulphide ; 
but  if  the  solution  has  been  made  with  alcohol  instead  of  water,  carbon  disulphide  fails 
to  extract  the  iodine,  although  this  element  is  removed  by  the  solvent  mentioned  from 
the  simple  tincture  of  iodine  (Jorgensen,  1870).  An  aqueous  solution  of  iodine  in  potas- 
sium iodide  produces  with  lead  subacetate  dark-colored  precipitates,  which  Dossios  and 
Weith  (1869)  regarded  as  being  mixtures  of  lead  iodide  with  finely-divided  iodine ; but 
Piffard  (1861)  found  the  precipitate  with  lead  acetate,  after  drying,  could  be  heated  to 
71°  C.  (159.8°  F.)  without  evolving  iodine,  which  could  likewise  not  be  extracted  with 
simple  solvents.  These  facts,  it  seems,  point  to  the  existence  of  compounds  of  1 atom 
of  potassium  with  1,  2,  and  3 atoms  of  iodine.  (See  also  Liquor  Iodi  Comp,  and  Tinc- 
tura  Iodi  Comp.) 

Tests. — If  impurities  other  than  bromide  and  chloride  are  present,  the  large  cubical 
crystals  will  usually  be  the  purest ; for  the  following  tests  it  is  therefore  advisable  to 
triturate  together  crystals  of  different  size : A little  of  the  powdered  salt  taken  up  with 
the  loop  of  a platinum  wire  and  held  in  a non-luminous  flame  should  at  once  impart  a 
violet  color  to  the  latter  (absence  of  sodium  salt).  “ No  residue  should  be  left  when  1 
Gm.  of  the  salt  is  dissolved  in  2 Cc.  of  diluted  alcohol  of  specific  gravity  0.920  (absence 
of  less  soluble  salts).  If  1 Gm.  of  the  salt  be  dissolved  in  water  and  0.05  Cc.  (one  drop) 
of  decinormal  oxalic  acid  solution  be  added,  no  color  should  be  produced  by  the  subse- 
quent addition  of  a drop  of  methyl-orange  test-solution  (limit  of  alkali).  The  aqueous 
solution  (1  in  20)  should  not  be  colored  or  precipitated  by  the  addition  of  an  equal 
volume  of  hydrogen  sulphide  test-solution,  either  before  or  after  acidulation  with  hydro- 
chloric acid  (absence  of  arsenic,  lead,  copper,  etc.).  The  aqueous  solution  should  remain 
clear  after  the  addition  of  barium  chloride  test-solution  (absence  of  sulphate).  If  1 Gm. 
of  the  salt  be  mixed  with  0.5  Gm.,  each,  of  iron  and  of  zinc,  in  coarse  powder  or  filings, 
and  heated  in  a test-tube  with  5 Cc.  of  sodium  hydroxide  test-solution,  no  ammoniacal 
vapors  should  be  evolved  (absence  of  nitrate  or  nitrite).  No  blue  color  should  be  com- 
municated to  5 Cc.  of  the  aqueous  solution  (1  in  20)  by  0.1  Cc.  (2  drops)  of  potassium 
ferrocyanide  test-solution  (absence  of  iron).  If  0.5  Gm.  of  the  well-dried  salt  be  dis- 
solved in  10  Cc.  of  water,  and  2 drops  of  potassium  chromate  test-solution  be  added,  it 
should  require  not  more  than  30.25  Cc.,  nor  less  than  30  Cc.  of  decinormal  silver  nitrate 
solution  to  produce  a permanent  red  color  of  silver  chromate  (corresponding  to  at  least 
99.5  per  cent,  of  the  pure  salt).” — U.  S. 

The  absence  of  iodate  is  recognized  by  adding  gelatinized  starch  to  the  aqueous  solu- 
tion of  the  salt,  and  afterward  a dilute  acid  (sulphuric,  hydrochloric,  or  tartaric,  but  not 
nitric),  when  a blue  color  should  not  at  once  be  developed.  “ 0.2  Gm.  of  the  salt  dis- 
solved in  2 Cc.  of  ammonia-water,  and  then  agitated  with  13  Cc.  of  volumetric  solution 
of  silver  nitrate,  should  yield  a filtrate  which  on  being  acidulated  with  nitric  acid  should 
not  become  so  turbid  within  ten  minutes  as  to  lose  its  pellucidness.” — P.  G.  This  test 
proves  the  absence  of  more  than  about  1 per  cent,  of  chloride  and  bromide.  Silver 
iodide  is  also  slightly  soluble  in  (about  3000  parts  of)  ammonia-water.  Cyanide  may 
be  present  from  using  impure  potassium  carbonate  or  impure  iodine ; its  presence  is 
determined  by  adding  to  a solution  of  the  iodide  a little  ferrous  sulphate,  a drop  of  solu- 
tion of  ferric  chloride  or  sulphate,  and  a slight  excess  of  solution  of  soda.  On  warming 
the  mixture  and  acidulating  it  with  hydrochloric  acid  a blue  color  (of  Prussian  blue) 
should  not  be  produced.  “ 1 Gm.  requires  for  complete  precipitation  60.2  Cc.  (60.387 
Cc.  for  the  pure  salt)  of  the  volumetric  solution  of  silver  nitrate.” — Br. 

Potassium  carbonate,  sulphate,  iodate,  nitrate,  and  cyanide  are  insoluble  in  strong 
alcohol,  which  dissolves  only  small  quantities  of  potassium  bromide  and  chloride.  An 
adulteration  of  the  iodide  with  more  than  mere  traces  of  the  last  two  salts  may  be 
detected  by  treating  the  iodide  with  eighteen  times  its  weight  of  warm  alcohol,  and,  after 
cooling,  testing  the  undissolved  portion.  These  admixtures  may  be  estimated  from  the 
silver  precipitate,  which  from  10  grains  of  pure  potassium  iodide  weighs  14.15  grains 
(or  1.415  Gm.  from  1 Gm.  of  the  salt),  from  the  same  quantity  of  bromide,  15.8  grains, 
from  chloride  19.2  grains,  and  from  cyanide  20.57  grains.  Moreover,  the  last  three  may 
be  extracted  from  the  former  by  ammonia,  and,  after  acidulating  this  solution  with  nitric 


1304 


POTASSII  IODIDUM. 


acid,  collected  and  weighed  separately  ; or,  instead  of  dissolving  it  in  water,  the  salt  to  he 
tested  may  be  dissolved  in  ammonia-water,  when  on  the  addition  of  silver  nitrate  only 
silver  iodide  will  be  thrown  down. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Potassium  iodide  is  used  in  preparing  the  iodides  of 
lead  and  mercury. 

Potassii  iodas. — Potassium  iodate,  E. ; Iodate  de  potasse,  Fr.;  Kaliumjodat,  Jodsaures  Kali, 
G.  KI03 ; molecular  weight  213.44. — This  salt  is  left  behind  on  treating  the  product  of  the 
reaction  of  iodine  upon  potassa  with  alcohol ; or  it  may  be  prepared,  according  to  L.  Henry 
(1870),  by  diffusing  127  parts  of  iodine  in  cold  water,  passing  chlorine  into  it  until  iodine  chloride, 
IC1,  has  been  formed  and  dissolved  in  water,  adding  122.5  parts  of  potassium  chlorate  and  heat- 
ing, when  chlorine  gas  will  be  evolved,  and  potassium  iodate  crystallizes  on  cooling ; IC1  + KC103 
yields  KI03  -j-  Cl2.  The  salt  crystallizes  in  translucent  or  milk-white  cubes,  dissolves  in  13  parts 
of  cold  and  in  3.1  parts  of  boiling  water,  and  is  more  freely  soluble  in  solution  of  potassium  iodide 
and  insoluble  in  alcohol.  When  heated,  the  salt  fuses,  and  at  a high  temperature  parts  with  its 
oxygen,  leaving  potassium  iodide.  It  detonates,  but  less  violently  than  the  chlorate,  when  thrown 
upon  burning  coal.  On  the  addition  of  arsenous  acid  or  stannous  chloride  the  solution  separates 
iodine  5 if  not  too  diluted,  its  solution  yields  white  granular  precipitates  with  salts  of  barium, 
lead,  and  silver. 

Action  and  Uses. — In  man  potassium  iodide  is  very  rapidly  absorbed  and  eliminated 
by  all  the  emunctories  without  undergoing  decomposition,  but  it  is  discharged  mainly 
through  the  kidneys,  for  nearly  nine-tenths  of  the  amount  used  may  be  recovered  from 
the  urine.  The  elimination  is  not  always  rapid,  for  in  some  cases  the  salt  may  be  detected 
in  the  urine  several  weeks  after  it  has  been  taken.  It  has  no  uniform  influence  on  either 
the  amount  or  the  quality  of  the  urine  secreted,  but  sometimes  occasions  albuminuria. 
According  to  See’s  experiments,  potassium  iodide  primarily  stimulates  the  heart  and 
contracts  the  arteries,  and  secondarily  produces  an  opposite  effect  ( Archives  gen .,  Nov. 
1889,  p.  613)  ; and  Laborde  has  shown  that  the  salt  exerts  a preponderant  influence  upon 
the  central  nervous  system  ( Bull . de  T Academie  de  Med .,  1890,  p.  299).  It  is  secreted 
with  the  milk,  and  in  that  manner  has  occasioned  iodism  in  nursing  infants  (Cecil, 
Therap.  Gaz .,  xi.  749;  Koplik,  Med.  Record , xxxii.  424).  The  continued  use  of  potas- 
sium iodide  excites  eruptions  of  the  skin,  the  most  common  of  which  is  acne  indurata. 
More  rarely  blood-blisters  or  watery  blebs  form.  Cases  are  sometimes  met  with  in  which 
the  smallest  dose  of  the  salt  occasions  urticaria  ( Phila . Med.  Times,  xi.  672).  Iodic  pur- 
pura occurs  in  the  form  of  discrete  purple  spots  upon  the  skin,  most  frequently  of  the 
legs,  and  which  usually  disappear  spontaneously  in  two  or  three  weeks.  (Compare  Mac- 
kenzie, Times  and  Gaz.,  May,  1879,  p.  501.)  The  pustular  and  bullar  forms  of  the 
eruption  seem  to  take  their  origin  in  the  hair-follicles  according  to  some  dermatologists, 
in  the  sebaceous  glands  according  to  others.  The  blebs  are  sometimes  very  large,  meas- 
uring an  inch  or  more  in  diameter,  and  are  filled  with  a clear,  turbid,  or  bloody  serum, 
and  have  been  described  under  the  name  hydroa.  They  are  very  painful  to  the  touch. 
They  are  of  rare  occurrence,  and  seem  to  depend  upon  some  peculiarity  of  the  patient, 
since  they  may  be  produced  by  very  small  doses  of  the  medicine.  They  were  so  in  a 
fatal  case  reported  by  Wolff  ( Amer . Jour.  Med.  Sci.,  Jan.  1887,  p.  275.  Compare  Med. 
Record,  xxvii.  348 ; British  Med.  Jour.,  Oct.  24,  1885  ; Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour., 
Sept.  1886,  p.  237  ; Edinb.  Med.  Jour.,  xxxii.  471.)  The  toxical  effects  are  most  apt  to 
occur  when  the  kidneys  are  obstructed  ( Therap . Monatsh.,  iii.  435,  537  ; iv.  105).  In  one 
case  an  attack  of  hemiplegia  occurred  during  the  use  of  massive  doses  of  the  iodide  (Hal- 
lopeau).  Potassium  iodide  has  occasioned  oedema  of  the  larynx,  and  is  apt  to  cause 
salivation,  much  resembling  that  which  occurs  during  pregnancy.  The  symptom  is  mild, 
is  not  accompanied  with  the  fetor  of  mercurial  salivation,  and  ceases  when  the  medicine 
is  suspended.  A familiar  effect  produced  by  the  salt  is  a coryza  with  lachrymation  and 
a congested  state  of  the  eyes,  nostrils,  frontal  sinuses,  antrum  Highmorianum,  and  throat ; 
more  rarely  the  larynx  exhibits  catarrhal  symptoms,  with  hoarseness,  obstruction,  dyspnoea, 
and  harassing  cough,  and  sometimes  very  moderate  doses  have  caused  fulness  of  the  head, 
giddiness,  and  trembling  of  the  legs  in  walking,  or  marked  paresis.  Sometimes,  also,  there 
have  been  impairment  of  vision  and  articulation  and  a partial  paralysis  of  the  vocal  organs. 
These  effects  are  often  produced  by  a prolonged  or  even  the  transient  use  of  very  small  doses 
(Huchard,  Bull,  et  Mem.  Soc.  therap .,  1885,  p.  72  ; Parker,  Med. Record,  xxvi.  587  ; Eliot, 
ibid. , xxvii.  348).  Oppenheimer  regards  these  as  reflex  effects  of  trigeminal  irritation 
( Therap . Monatsh.,  iii.  537).  But  sometimes  very  large  doses,  such  as  40  or  60  grains  a 
day,  may  be  taken  for  weeks  without  causing  any  special  phenomena,  as  in  a case  reported 
by  Eshner  (Med.  and  Surg.  Reporter,  Nov.  23, 1889),  in  which  the  patient  took  173  grains 
three  times  daily  without  injury.  The  addition  of  aromatic  spirit  of  ammonia  to  a solu- 


POTASSII  IODIDUM. 


1305 


tion  of  the  iodide  is  said  to  greatly  diminish  the  tendency  to  such  consequences  as  have 
been  now  described.  After  a single  dose  of  8 grains  of  this  iodide  the  mouth  and  throat 
became  swollen  and  secreted  viscid  mucus  and  saliva ; cedema  affected  not  only  the  face, 
but  gradually  extended  to  the  nostrils  and  throat  and  to  the  whole  body  ; respiration  was 
embarrassed.  The  symptoms  were  much  relieved  by  the  hypodermic  injection  of  mor- 
phine, but  did  not  disappear  for  several  days  ( Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour .,  Oct.  1882,  p. 
405).  A similar  case  is  reported  in  which  tracheotomy  was  required  to  save  life  (Hill 
and  Cooper,  1881),  and  another  by  Greenhow  ( Therap.  Monatsh .,  iv.  105).  In  rare  cases 
potassium  iodide  produces  an  effect  which  is  not  so  unusual  after  the  prolonged  admin- 
istration of  iodine — atrophy  of  the  testicles.  Where  kidney  disease  exists  it  may  suppress 
the  urine. 

Potassium  iodide,  although  sometimes  successful,  is  not  as  efficacious  as  iodine  in 
relieving  mercurial  sore  mouth ; indeed,  it  often  aggravates  the  local  affection.  At  the 
same  time,  it  is  the  most  effectual  means  of  eliminating  mercury  from  the  system,  and 
thereby  curing  paralysis,  neuralgia,  and  other  symptoms  which  occur  in  chronic  poisoning 
by  this  metal.  The  same  is  true  of  lead-poisoning  in  its  chronic  form.  If  the  iodide  be 
given  to  a person  by  whom  lead  or  mercury  has  been  taken  for  a considerable  period 
without  producing  characteristic  toxical  symptoms,  those  symptoms  will  presently  be 
manifested  in  consequence  of  the  liberation  of  the  metal  by  the  salt,  and  at  the  same 
time  the  former  may  be  detected  in  the  urine,  and  sometimes  in  the  saliva,  by  appropriate 
chemical  tests.  To  prevent  a renewal  of  the  poisoning  under  this  treatment  the  iodide 
must  be  cautiously  administered.  According  to  Pouchet,  during  the  period  of  aggravated 
symptoms  the  urine  contains  on  an  average  1 Mgm.  of  metallic  lead  to  the  liter.  Under 
the  influence  of  from  4 to  6 grains  daily  of  potassium  iodide  the  elimination  of  lead 
increases  greatly  for  a week  or  ten  days,  and  then  declines  below  its  original  quantity. 
Hence,  according  to  Pouchet,  the  remedy  should  not  be  administered  continuously  ( Bos- 
ton Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  Aug.  1881,  p.  125).  The  power  of  the  iodide  to  combine  with 
mercury  already  in  the  system  is  illustrated  in  the  treatment  of  constitutional  syphilis — 
i.  e.  of  the  skin,  cellular  tissue,  bones,  and  nervous  system — by  this  medicine  in  persons 
who  had  taken  mercury  during  the  earlier  stages  of  the  disease.  It  is  not  unusual  for 
them  to  experience  the  full  effects  of  mercurial  salivation.  Three  different  explanations 
have  been  proposed  for  the  cure  of  constitutional  syphilis  by  the  iodide  of  potassium  : 1 , 
that  it  revives  the  mercury  in  the  system  and  enables  it  to  work  its  specific  cure ; 2,  that 
it  eliminates  the  mercury  from  the  system,  and  so  removes  an  obstacle  to  the  cure ; and 
3,  that  it  cures  syphilis  by  its  intrinsic  powers.  These  propositions  are  not  incompatible 
with  one  another,  and  each  may,  in  individual  cases,  be  true.  Clinical  observation  renders 
it  probable  that  such  is  the  case.  The  successful  use  of  the  iodide  in  this  disease  depends 
greatly  upon  its  dose,  which  should  never  be  less  than  10  grains  three  times  a day,  and 
often  must  be  twice  or  thrice  as  much.  Indeed,  not  a few  experts  in  the  treatment  of 
syphilis  maintain  that  unless  very  large  doses  of  the  iodide  are  given,  so  as  to  saturate 
the  system  with  it,  its  best  effects  will  not  be  displayed.  In  one  case  the  patient 
seems  to  have  been  rescued  from  an  apparently  hopeless  condition  by  taking  300  grains 
of  the  salt  daily  for  three  weeks  (Henry,  New  York  Med.  Record , xx.  590.  See  also 
Seguin,  Med.  Record , xxvii.  27  ; Otis,  ibid.,  p.  82).  Lanceraux  long  ago  (1869)  con- 
demned these  excessive  doses  as  useless,  because  the  system  cannot  appropriate  them,  and 
as  injurious  also  to  the  constitution.  The  more  recent  contention  that  syphilis  creates  a 
toleration  of  the  medicine  appears  to  be  unfounded  (Stelwagon,  Therap.  Gaz.,  xiii.  674; 
White,  ibid.,  xii.  802,  807,  829;  and  others,  ibid. , xiii.  195).  Whatever  dose  may  in  any 
case  be  ultimately  reached,  the  initial  one  should  be  small.  Large  doses  ah  initio  have 
sometimes  produced  oedema  of  the  larynx.  The  eliminative  operation  of  this  salt  is  also 
shown  in  chronic  arsenical  poisoning  (Falck,  Toxicologic ) ; a striking  illustration  of  it  was 
presented  by  the  case  of  an  arsenic-eater  in  Philadelphia  (HaCosta,  Philada.  Med.  Times, 
xi.  385). 

The  value  of  potassium  iodide  in  the  treatment  of  aneurism  of  the  aorta  was  discov- 
ered, as  that  of  all  really  valuable  medicines  has  been,  “ by  the  merest  hazard ;”  and 
although  the  method  which  some  have  pursued  in  employing  it  included  the  absolute  and 
prolonged  repose  of  the  patient,  the  share  of  the  iodide  in  the  result  cannot  fairly  be 
challenged.  In  cases  of  aneurism  of  the  aortic  arch  “ not  only  has  relief  of  neuralgic 
pains  and  of  the  general  distress  followed  its  administration,  but  the  local  pressure-symp- 
toms have  been  mitigated,  and  firm  thrombosis  has  taken  place  within  the  sac,  while  the 
area  of  pulsation  and  of  percussion-dulness  has  exhibited  sensible  reduction  ” (Walshe). 
More  recently  Balfour  (1868)  and  Bramwell  (1878)  proved,  the  former  by  reports  of 


1306 


POTASSII  10  DID  UM. 


fifteen,  and  the  latter  of  seven  cases,  that  this  medicine,  continuously  given  while  the 
patient  remains  at  absolute  rest  in  bed  and  uses  a non-stimulating  diet,  has  caused  a com- 
plete disappearance  of  all  the  active  signs  of  an  aneurismal  tumor,  and  rendered  possible 
a return  to  an  industrious  life.  In  1882  a case  of  cure  of  aneurism  of  the  aorta  by  this 
salt,  given  in  daily  doses  of  75  or  80  grains  and  continued  for  several  weeks,  was  reported 
by  Rhett  (Med.  News,  xli.  429).  It  is  not  said  whether  rest  was  conjoined  or  not.  (Com- 
pare Schultz;  DaCosta,  Ther.  Gaz.,  x.  280;  Med.  News,  lii.  150;  Berenyi,  Ther.  Gaz., 
xiii.  50  ; Macdonnell,  Med.  News,  lii.  1.)  The  medicine  must  be  given  in  doses  ranging 
from  Gm.  1.30-2  (20  to  30  grains)  thrice  daily,  and,  with  occasional  intermissions  when 
iodism  occurs,  should  be  continued  for  weeks  or  months. 

Numerous  cases  of  dropsy  owe  their  cure  to  this  medicine,  including  ascites  due  to 
splenic  or  hepatic  induration,  and  hydrothorax  depending  upon  cardiac  obstruction.  It 
is  claimed  that  chronic  valvular  diseases  of  the  heart  have  been  greatly  mitigated  by  it, 
especially  those  of  the  aortic  orifice.  It  has  cured  acute  hydrocephalus  from  granular 
meningitis,  but  chiefly  when  mercury  had  been  previously  administered,  and  chronic  hydro- 
cephalus under  similar  circumstances.  In  these  intractable  diseases  it  should  never  be 
neglected ; and  in  regard  to  the  former,  which  so  rarely  recovers  under  any  treatment, 
the  use  of  mercury  followed  by  potassium  iodide  cannot  be  too  strongly  recommended. 
In  not  a few  cases  also  presenting  signs  of  tumor  of  the  brain,  whether  syphilitic  or  not, 
the  symptoms  have  been  greatly  mitigated,  and  sometimes  quite  removed,  by  this  medi- 
cine. Seguin  insisted  on  the  necessity  of  administering  very  large  doses  in  all  such  cases 
(Med.  Record , xxi.  50).  Similar  testimony  is  furnished  by  Millikin  (Med.  News,  1.  177). 
According  to  Haslund,  when  given  in  rapidly-increasing  doses  it  is  not  less  efficient  than 
arsenic  in  the  treatment  of  psoriasis  (Amer.  Jour.  Med,  Sci .,  Jan.  1888,  p.  97).  These 
doses,  beginning  at  50  or  60  grains,  were  rapidly  increased  to  the  enormous  proportion 
of  450,  600,  and  even  750,  grains  a day,  and  rarely,  it  is  asserted,  did  they  cause  intoler- 
ance. No  one  has  been  found  to  imitate  so  rashly  heroic  a method.  But  in  doses  of 
from  10  to  20  grains  three  or  four  times  a day  the  medicine  has  been  prescribed  by  Hal- 
lopeau,  Besnier,  De  Molenes,  and  others  (Archives  gen.,  Jan.  1889,  p.  658)  with  excellent 
effect  on  this  most  intractable  disease.  Stel  wagon  claims  that  eczema  in  children  who 
are  otherwise  healthy  may  be  cured  by  doses  of  from  1 to  5 grains  three  times  a day, 
and  in  adults  by  doses  of  from  5 to  10  grains,  provided  that  an  appropriate  local  treat- 
ment be  used  at  the  same  time  (Med.  News,  xlvi.  400).  In  a case  of  persistent  priapism, 
in  which  various  topical  and  general  remedies  were  for  six  weeks  unavailingly  employed, 
Booth  prescribed  5 grains  of  this  iodide  four  times  a day.  Improvement  immediately 
began,  and  the  case  terminated  in  cure  (Lancet,  May,  1887,  p.  798). 

In  the  various  forms  of  muscular  rheumatism  potassium  iodide  is  one  of  the  most 
efficient  remedies,  but  especially  in  acute  lumbago,  which  it  often  cures  with  marvellous 
rapidity.  In  sciatica  and  other  forms  of  rheumatic  neuralgia  it  is  sometimes  of  great 
advantage,  and  even  in  angina  pectoris  depending  upon  aortic  lesions  it  may  afford  relief. 
Huchard  (1885)  found  the  medicine  successful  in  alleviating  or  arresting  the  paroxysms 
which  he  conceives  to  depend  upon  ossification  of  the  coronary  arteries.  He  prescribed 
from  15  to  30  grains  a day  (Therap.  Gaz.,  ix.  820).  In  like  manner,  See  held  it  to  be 
useful  in  every  form  of  obstructive  heart  disease , but  not  so  much  by  removing  obstruc- 
tions in  the  blood-vessels  as  by  directly  strengthening  and  stimulating  the  heart,  and 
dilating  its  capillary  blood-vessels  and  especially  the  branches  of  the  coronary  arteries 
(Therap.  Monatsh.,  iv.  91).  Parenchymatous  goitre  is  said  to  have  been  cured  rapidly 
by  daily  half-ounce  doses  of  a 5 per  cent,  solution  of  this  salt  (Bull,  de  Therap.,  cx.  424). 
It  is  worse  than  useless  in  acute  articular  rheumatism,  but  in  the  chronic  disease,  with 
thickening  of  the  fibrous  capsules  of  the  joints  and  effusion  within  them,  it  is  often  the 
most  efficient  remedy.  It  need  not,  however,  be  given  in  large  doses  for  this  affection, 
nor  for  chronic  gout,  in  which  also  it  has  been  found  of  service,  but  its  use  must  be  long 
maintained.  On  theoretical  grounds  it  has  been  used  in  the  treatment  of  acute  pneumo- 
nia. In  the  chronic  form  it  may  promote  cure  by  quickening  the  absorption  or  removal 
of  the  exudation.  In  chronic  bronchitis  with  asthma,  depending  upon  dilatation  of  the 
bronchia  or  upon  thickening  of  their  walls,  the  iodide  is  often  signally  beneficial.  The 
paroxysmal  affection  is  then  subordinate  to  the  lesion  of  nutrition.  See  (1878)  referred 
to  twenty-four  cases  of  “ asthma  ” which  he  treated  with  this  medicine  and  either  entirely 
cured  or  materially  relieved.  He  gave  daily  from  Gm.  1.25-3  (20  to  45  grains)  in 
divided  doses,  and  continued  them  for  several  weeks.  In  1882  the  same  physician 
renewed  the  expression  of  his  confidence  in  the  medicine,  calling  it  “ the  remedy  par 
excellence  for  asthma,”  and  yet  stating  that  it  is  the  most  useful  remedy  for  dyspnoea  of 


POTASSIT  NTTRAS. 


1307 


cardiac  origin.  He  admitted  that  if  the  treatment  was  too  prolonged  the  patients  were 
apt  to  suffer  from  bloody  extravasations  in  the  mouth  and  nostrils,  or  even  pulmonary 
haemorrhage  when  a tuberculous  diathesis  existed,  loss  of  appetite  and  aversion  to  food, 
emaciation,  atrophy  of  the  mammae,  etc.  A close  scrutiny  of  this  author’s  cases,  so  far 
as  he  describes  them,  and  of  several  other  cases  published  to  confirm  them,  renders  it 
probable  that  they  were  asthmatic  partly  because  they  were  complicated  with  chronic 
bronchitis,  a disease  which  the  potassium  iodide  has  often  cured.  It  is  worthy  of 
notice  that  Casey  (1866)  reported  his  having  employed  this  medicine  in  twenty -five  or 
thirty  cases  of  “ asthma,”  in  every  instance  with  decided  and  unequivocal  relief.  But 
the  dose  prescribed  by  him  was  only  from  2 to  5 grains.  Ormerod  (1886)  found  it  equally 
advantageous  in  doses  of  5-10  grains  three  times  a day,  although  he  did  not  regard  it  as 
a curative  remedy  ( Practitioner , xxxvi.  241).  Potassium  iodide  may  be  employed  for 
the  relief  of  asthmatic  bronchitis  in  an  atomized  solution  of  the  salt  of  the  strength  of 
5 per  cent.  The  inhalation  should  be  frequently  repeated  (Everard).  In  cases  oi paral- 
ysis due  probably  to  pressure  upon  a cerebral  motor  centre  or  upon  a nervous  trunk,  pro- 
duced by  syphilitic  or  other  swellings,  the  medicine  is  often  singularly  efficient,  and 
should  never  be  omitted  from  the  treatment.  The  same  remark  applies  to  many  cases  of 
spinal  paralysis,  and  especially  to  those  of  in-coordination  of  movements  due  to  sclerosis 
of  the  cord.  (Compare  Mitchell,  Phila.  Med.  Times , x.  422  ; Gibney,  Med.  Record , 
xxviii.  452.)  In  all  of  the  affections  mentioned  in  this  paragraph  it  is  probable  that  the 
iodide  is  operative  by  its  causing  the  absorption  of  indurations  which  compress  the  source 
or  the  channels  of  nervous  power.  That  it  restrains  nutrition  or,  perhaps,  quickens  denu- 
trition, normal  as  well  as  abnormal,  is  shown  by  its  emaciating  operation  upon  the  testes, 
mammae,  and  ultimately  on  other  organs ; and  that  it  at  the  same  time  promotes  elimina- 
tion is  rendered  probable  by  the  history  of  its  use  in  diseases  of  the  skin  and  constitu- 
tional syphilis,  etc.,  and,  it  may  be  added,  by  its  power  of  rendering  nutrition  more  active 
in  indolent  ulcers , especially  those  which  remain  after  penetrating  wounds,  surgical  opera- 
tions, etc.  (Schleich,  Therap.  Monatsh.,  iv.  538). 

The  dose  of  potassium  iodide  cannot  be  accurately  defined ; according  to  the  object  to 
be  attained,  it  should  be  given  in  small  doses,  as  Gin.  0.12-0.20  (gr.  ij-iij),  or  in  very 
large  ones,  as  from  Gm.  0.60-1.30  (gr.  x-xx),  three  times  a day,  and  always  in  a large 
quantity  of  liquid.  It  should  be  remembered  that  water  dissolves  more  than  its  own 
weight  of  this  salt.  Its  unpleasant  taste  may  be  concealed  by  dissolving  it  in  carbonic 
acid  water  or  in  artificial  Vichy  water.  Table  beer  is  a suitable  vehicle  for  this  salt. 
Currant  or  raspberry  syrup  masks  it  also.  Milk  has  been  used  for  this  purpose  (Keyes ; 
Blair),  but  is  open  to  the  objection  that  lies  against  food  as  a vehicle  for  any  medicines. 
Preparations  of  belladonna  are  said  to  prevent  the  coryza  caused  by  this  salt.  Bohmann 
and  Malachowski  recommend  sodium  bicarbonate  for  the  same  purpose  ( Therap . Monatsh ., 
iii.  307).  The  iodide  acts  efficiently  when  given  in  enema  or  in  suppositories,  and  this 
mode  of  administration  is  to  be  preferred  when  it  is  used  for  diseases  within  the  pelvis 
(Kobner,  Therap.  Monatsh .,  iii.  489).  It  has  been  used  hypodermically  in  certain  cases 
of  its  intolerance  by  the  stomach,  8 grains  being  administered  at  each  injection.  Accord- 
ing to  Rabuteau,  quinine  sulphate  should  not  be  administered  before  or  after  potassium 
iodide,  for  mutual  decomposition  of  the  two  medicines  takes  place  and  iodine  is  liberated, 
which  may  act  poisonously. 

POTASSH  NITRAS,  U.  S.,  Br . — Potassium  Nitrate. 

Potassse  nitras , Kalium  nitricum,  P.  G. ; Nitrum  depuratum,  Sal  petrae,  Sal  nitri, 
Nitras  potassicus  s.  halicus. — Nitrate  of  potash,  Nitre , Saltpetre , E. ; Azotate  ( Nitrate ) de 
potasse,  Nitre  prismatique , Salpetre , Fr. ; Kaliumnitrat,  Salpetersaures  Kali,  Salpeter , 
Kalisalpeter,  G. 

Formula  KN03.  Molecular  weight  100.92. 

Origin  and  Preparation. — Nitrum  of  the  Romans  was  alkali  carbonate,  that 
of  sodium  being  chiefly  thus  designated.  Saltpetre  was  known  to  Geber  in  the  eighth 
century,  and  in  the  Latin  translations  of  his  writings  is  called  sal  petrae  and  sal  petrosum. 
Subsequently,  it  was  distinguished  as  sal  nitrum  or  sal  nitri,  until  at  the  close  of  the 
sixteenth  century  it  was  called  nitrum.  (See  Sodii  Carbonas.)  Fused  by  itself  or  with 
the  addition  of  a small  quantity  of  sulphur,  it  was  formerly  used  as  salprunelle  or  nitrum 
tabulatum.  Saltpetre  is  produced  near  the  surface  of  the  earth  wherever  nitrogenous 
organic  substances  are  undergoing  decomposition  in  the  presence  of  air,  moisture,  and 
potassium  compounds.  It  is  present  in  considerable  quantities  in  the  calcareous  soil  near 


1308 


POTASSII  NITRAS. 


dwellings  of  some  parts  of  India.  This  soil  becomes  impregnated  with  urine,  and  after 
it  has  been  exhausted  of  its  soluble  salts  soon  generates  them  again,  the  decomposition 
being  hastened  by  the  hot  and  moist  climate.  In  several  parts  of  Europe  nitrates  are 
formed  in  a precisely  analogous  manner,  either  by  collecting  the  urine  of  domestic 
animals  in  ditches  which  have  been  previously  filled  with  a porous  calcareous  earth,  or 
by  mixing  in  the  so-called  saltpetre-beds  animal  and  vegetable  substances  with  wood-ashes 
and  marl  or  other  material  containing  lime,  and  forming  this  mixture  into  mounds  which 
are  occasionally  moistened  with  drainings  from  the  dung-pit,  until  after  two  or  three  years 
the  salt  accumulates  in  the  outer  layer  of  the  heap,  which  is  then  removed,  lixiviated 
with  water,  and  left  in  contact  with  wood-ashes  in  order  to  decompose  the  calcium  and 
magnesium  nitrates  which  are  usually  present.  In  India,  which  furnishes  the  greater  part 
of  the  nitre,  the  process  of  exhausting  the  earth  is  very  similar,  except  that  it  is  usually 
packed  upon  wood-ashes  and  the  whole  lixiviated. 

In  the  Mammoth  Cave  of  Kentucky,  and  in  other  localities  of  the  United  States,  salt- 
petre has  occasionally  been  procured,  and  it  may  be  obtained  in  variable  quantities  from 
most  soils  where  vegetable  and  animal  materials  have  been  decaying,  and  from  which  it 
is  taken  up  by  the  plants  growing  there,  some  of  which  are  very  rich  in  this  salt. 
A.  Boutin  (1874)  ascertained  that  Amarantus  melancholicus  ruber  contains  16,  and  Am. 
atropurpureus  even  22.77,  per  cent,  of  potassium  nitrate,  calculated  for  the  dry  herb. 
The  same  salt  crystallizes  in  some  old  extracts. 

Since  the  Stassfurt  mines  have  been  worked  the  large  quantities  of  potassium  chloride 
obtained  have  also  been  utilized  in  the  production  of  saltpetre  by  a process  of  mutual 
decomposition  effected  with  native  sodium  nitrate  (Chili  saltpetre).  Equivalent  quantities 
of  the  two  salts  are  boiled  together  with  water  until  the  sodium  chloride  commences  to 
separate  in  the  boiling  liquor,  which  is  then  concentrated  and  the  chloride  removed  as  it 
crystallizes.  On  the  cooling  of  the  solutions  the  crystallization  of  the  nitre  is  usually 
disturbed  by  frequent  stirring  in  order  to  better  drain  off  the  mother-liquor,  in  which 
most  of  the  foreign  salts  remain  dissolved.  Variable  quantities  of  these  salts,  and  par- 
ticularly of  sodium  and  potassium  chlorides,  are  always  found  in  crude  nitre,  which  for 
further  purification  is  redissolved  in  water  and  granulated  by  evaporation  and  stirring. 
The  last  portions  of  adhering  chlorides  are  in  some  places  removed  by  percolating  the 
granular  powder  with  a concentrated  solution  of  nitre,  in  which  they  are  dissolved,  while 
the  nitrate  is  recovered  by  boiling  the  solution  and  removing  the  sodium  chloride  as  it 
separates. 

Most  of  the  saltpetre  used  in  the  United  States  is  purified  here  from  the  foreign  crude 
article,  of  which,  during  the  year  1881-82,  11,796,091  pounds  were  imported,  besides 
453,794  pounds  of  refined  and  partly  refined  potassium  nitrate. 

Properties. — Potassium  nitrate  crystallizes  in  colorless,  transparent,  six-sided, 
striated  prisms  of  the  rhombic  system,  which  frequently  have  cavities  in  the  interior  filled 
with  mother-liquor,  so  that  on  trituration  they  yield  a damp  powder.  It 
is  often  kept  in  the  granulated  state,  and  is  then  a white  crystalline 
powder.  When  heated  to  353°  C.  (667.4°  F.)  it  fuses  to  a colorless 
liquid,  and  congeals  again  on  cooling  to  a radiating  crystalline  mass ; in 
the  presence  of  even  a small  proportion  of  sodium  chloride  the  radiat- 
ing arrangement  is  less  distinct,  at  least  in  the  centre  of  the  mass,  or 
entirely  wanting.  At  a higher  temperature  it  gives  off  oxygen,  and 
afterward  oxygen  and  nitrogen,  being  gradually  converted  into  potas- 
sium nitrite  and  oxide ; on  the  addition  of  sulphuric  acid  this  residue 
gives  off  nitrous  vapors.  Potassium  nitrate  is  neutral  to  test-paper, 
inodorous,  has  a pungently  saline  and  cooling  taste,  and  dissolves  in 
water  with  a marked  diminution  of  temperature.  1 part  of  the  salt 
dissolves 

at  0°  15°  30°  40°  50°  60°  80°  100°  114.1°  C. 

in  7.25  3.85  2.25  1.563  1.163  .901  .582  .405  .306  parts  of  water, 

the  boiling-point  of  the  most  concentrated  solution  being  114.1°  C. 
(237.4°  F.).  The  salt  is  insoluble  in  absolute  and  sparingly  soluble  in 
It  is  permanent  in  the  air,  but,  according  to  Mulder  (1864),  absorbs  a 
considerable  amount  of  water  when  kept  in  a confined  atmosphere  saturated  with  moisture. 
When  thrown  upon  red-hot  coal  it  deflagrates.  Warmed  with  sulphuric  acid  and  copper, 
it  evolves  red  nitrous  vapors  ; its  aqueous  solution  gives  a white  crystalline  precipitate 
of  cream  of  tartar  on  the  addition  of  a concentrated  solution  of  tartaric  acid  or  of  sodium 


Fig.  231. 


Crystal  of  Potassii 
Nit  r as. 

dilute  alcohol. 


POTASSII  NITRAS. 


1309 


bitartrate,  and  if  acidulated  with  hydrochloric  acid  yields  a yellow  precipitate  with  plati- 
num chloride.  The  solution,  mixed  with  an  equal  bulk  of  sulphuric  acid,  and  afterward 
with  ferrous  sulphate,  acquires  a brown-black  color. 

Tests. — The  aqueous  solution  of  the  salt  (1  in  20)  should  have  a neutral  reaction, 
and  should  not  be  affected  by  hydrogen  sulphide  or  ammonium  sulphide  (absence  of 
metals),  barium  chloride  (absence  of  sulphate),  silver  nitrate  (chloride),  ammonium  car- 
bonate (calcium  salt),  or,  after  the  addition  of  ammonium  carbonate,  by  ammonium  phos- 
phate (magnesium  salt).  On  mixing  the  powdered  salt  or  its  concentrated  solution  with 
alcohol,  and  igniting  the  latter,  the  flame  should  have  a violet  but  not  a yellow  color 
(sodium  salt).  On  mixing  1 Gm.  of  the  dry  salt  with  1 Gm.  of  sulphuric  acid,  evapor- 
ating to  dryness,  and  igniting,  the  residue  consists  of  potassium  sulphate,  and  should 
weigh  0.86  Gm.  In  the  presence  of  sodium  nitrate  the  weight  is  less. 

Pulvis  temperans,  s.  Pulvis  refrigerans.  Mix  by  trituration  potassium  nitrate  1 part, 
potassium  bitartrate  3 parts,  and  sugar  8 parts. — P.  G.  1872. 

An  older  formula  directs  equal  weights  of  potassium  sulphate  and  nitrate,  and  this,  mixed  with 
10  per  cent,  of  vermilion,  is  Pulvis  temperans  (ruber)  Stahlii  ; Poudre  temperante  de  Stahl, 
F.  Cod. 

Action  and  Uses. — Potassium  nitrate  in  small  doses  is  diuretic,  provided  it  be 
given  in  an  abundant  watery  vehicle ; in  large  doses  it  is  a cardiac  and  nervous  sedative 
and  a purgative ; and  in  excessive  doses  a local  irritant  poison,  as  well  as  a powerful 
sedative  of  all  the  vital  functions. 

When  poisonous  doses  of  nitre  are  taken,  as  an  ounce  and  upward,  there  are  symptoms 
of  gastro-intestinal  inflammation,  and  sometimes  blood  is  vomited  and  passed  by  stool ; 
the  urine  is  diminished  or  suppressed ; there  is  coldness  of  the  extremities,  with  a feeble 
and  thready  pulse,  slow  respiration,  great  debility,  tremulousness,  insensibility,  blindness, 
deafness,  and  even  convulsions.  A case  is  on  record  in  which  a person  who  had  taken 
31  ounces  of  nitre  presented  no  marked  symptoms  at  first,  but  at  the  end  of  five  hours 
suddenly  fell  from  his  chair  and  expired  ( Phila . Med.  Exam.,  Apr.  1855,  p.  244).  It  is 
stated  that  two  cases  of  sudden  death  followed  the  administration  of  Gm.  12  (180  grains) 
in  acute  rheumatism  ( Edinb . Med.  Jour.,  xxx.  654).  It  is  remarkable,  however,  that 
poisoning  by  this  substance  generally  ends  in  recovery,  although  for  some  time  the 
patient  may  suffer  from  irritability  of  the  stomach,  colic,  dysuria,  and  a sense  of  chilli- 
ness in  the  back  and  limbs,  with  weakness  of  the  latter.  After  death  a florid  color  of 
the  lips  has  been  noted,  and  a similar  hue  of  the  blood,  which,  indeed,  other  salts,  as 
potassium  chlorate,  sodium  chloride,  magnesium  chloride,  etc.,  produce ; the  stomach  is 
apt  to  contain  blood,  and  its  lining  membrane  is  of  a bright-red  color,  softened  or  cor- 
roded. The  upper  part  of  the  small  intestine  may  present  a similar  condition. 

Nitre  has  long  been  used  in  acute  rheumatism , given  in  a large  amount  of  water  or 
other  liquid  diluent,  as  Gm.  8—12  (gij-iij),  and  from  that  to  Gm.  32  (§j),  in  about 
a quart  of  water,  which  quantity  was  taken  in  twenty-four  hours.  There  is  no  lack  of 
competent  authorities  who  declare  that  it  subdues  the  fever  and  pain  and  shortens  the 
attack,  while  others  of  equal  competency  allege  that  it  is  useless  therapeutically  and 
repulsive  to  the  taste  and  stomach.  We  have  no  doubt  that  the  latter  is  the  truer 
judgment  of  the  two.  At  the  present  day  this  method  of  treatment  is  hardly  thought 
of  in  the  acute,  and  still  less  in  the  chronic,  form  of  rheumatism.  The  same  remark 
applies  to  pneumonia,  various  fevers , etc.,  and  even  in  dropsy  the  diuretic  virtues  of  nitre 
are  too  uncertain  to  entitle  it  to  any  confidence.  It  has  been  claimed  as  a remedy  for 
scurvy  on  theoretical  and  unsubstantial  grounds,  and  also  upon  the  ground  of  its  efficacy 
when  dissolved  in  vinegar,  without  due  consideration  of  the  well-established  virtues  of 
the  solvent  in  this  disease.  In  spasmodic  asthma,  whether  complicated  with  bronchitis 
or  not,  inhalation  of  the  fumes  of  burning  paper  impregnated  with  nitre  renders  the 
breathing  freer  and  less  stridulous,  and  sometimes  by  repetition  cures  the  disease.  The 
fumes  may  be  employed  by  diffusion  through  the  air  of  the  patient’s  bedroom,  or  inhaled 
from  a cigarette  or  from  thin  linen  paper  impregnated  with  a solution  of  nitre  burned 
under  a funnel,  from  the  mouth  of  which  the  patient  inspires.  Powdered  nitre,  moist- 
ened with  water  and  applied  to  the  face  night  and  morning,  is  one  of  the  best  remedies 
for  freckles  (lentigo).  A solution  of  it  is  useful  in  bruises  and  abrasions.  Nitre  may  be 
prescribed  in  powder  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.60-2  (gr.  x-xxx)  or  more,  or  in  solution,  which 
is  preferable.  The  effects  of  an  overdose  of  nitre  are  best  palliated  by  the  free  use  of 
water  or  of  some  bland  liquid,  and  by  warm  narcotic  fomentations  of  the  epigastrium. 
If  syncopal  symptoms  arise,  alcohol  and  heart-stimulants  may  be  given  hypodermically. 

Potassium  nitrite  has  been  supposed  to  possess  the  powers  of  amyl  nitrite,  because  its 


1310 


POTASSII  PERMANGANAS. 


physiological  action  is  very  similar.  But  Dr.  Hinsdale  ( Inaug . Thesis , Univ.  of  Penna., 
1881)  found  that  it  aggravated  the  paroxysms  of  epilepsy  and  rendered  them  more  fre- 
quent. As  an  antidote  to  strychnine  he  concluded  that  it  displayed  no  power  whatever. 

POTASSII  PERMANGANAS,  U.  S,,  Br. — Potassium  Permanganate. 

Potassse  permang an  as,  Kalium  permanganicum,  P.  G. ; Kali  hypermanganicum  crystalli- 
zatum,  Hy permang  anas  potassicus,  s.  halicus . — Permanganate  of  potash,  E. ; Permanganate 
de  potasse,  Fr. ; Kaliumpermanganat,  Uebermangomaures  Kali , G. 

Formula  KMn04.  Molecular  weight  157.67.  Or  K2Mn208  = 2KMn04  = 315.34. 

Potassium  permanganate  should  be  kept  in  well-stoppered  bottles  protected  from  light, 
and  should  not  be  triturated  nor  combined  in  solution  with  organic  or  readily  oxidizable 
substances. — U.  S. 

Origin. — This  salt  appears  to  have  been  obtained  by  Glauber  (1659),  who  by  melting 
together  magnesia  (black  manganese  oxide)  with  fixed  alkali  (potash),  and,  dissolving  the 
mass  in  water,  found  the  solution  to  be  of  a purple  color  and  to  change  to  blue,  red,  and 
green.  Chevillot  and  Edwards  (1817)  showed  that  for  the  production  of  this  colored 
compound  the  presence  of  oxygen  was  necessary,  whereby  the  manganese  was  oxidized 
to  an  acid.  Forchhammer  (1820)  distinguished  in  the  green  and  red  compound  two  acids, 
the  composition  of  which  was  determined  by  Mitscherlich  (1830). 

Preparation. — Take  of  Caustic  Potash  5 ounces;  Black  Manganese  Oxide,  in  fine 
powder,  4 ounces ; Potassium  Chlorate  3J  ounces ; Carbon  Dioxide  a sufficiency  ; Dis- 
tilled Water  2J  pints.  Deduce  the  potassium  chlorate  to  fine  powder,  and  mix  it  with 
the  manganese  oxide ; put  the  mixture  into  a porcelain  basin  and  add  to  it  the  caustic 
potash,  previously  dissolved  in  4 ounces  of  the  water.  Evaporate  to  dryness  On  a sand- 
bath,  stirring  diligently  to  prevent  spurting.  Pulverize  the  mass,  put  it  into  a covered 
Hessian  or  Cornish  crucible,  and  expose  it  to  a dull  red  heat  for  an  hour  or  till  it  has 
assumed  the  condition  of  a semi-fused  mass.  Let  it  cool,  pulverize  it,  and  boil  with  1| 
pints  of  the  water.  Let  the  insoluble  matter  subside,  decant  the  fluid,  boil  again  with 
i pint  of  the  water,  again  decant,  saturate  the  united  liquors  with  carbon  dioxide,  and 
evaporate  till  a pellicle  forms.  Set  aside  to  cool  and  crystallize.  Drain  the  crystalline  ; 
mass,  boil  it  in  6 ounces  of  the  water,  and  strain  through  a funnel  the  throat  of  which 
is  lightly  obstructed  by  a little  asbestos.  Let  the  fluid  cool  and  crystallize,  drain  the 
crystals,  and  dry  them  by  placing  them  under  a bell-jar  over  a vessel  containing  sul- 
phuric acid. — Br. 

When  manganese  dioxide  is  heated  to  dull  redness  with  an  excess  of  potassa  a portion 
of  it  is  oxidized  to  manganic  acid  at  the  expense  of  a part  of  the  oxygen  of  another  ; 
portion  of  the  dioxide,  which  is  thereby  reduced  to  manganic  oxide.  But  if  oxygen  is 
at  the  same  time  conducted  into  the  mass,  all  the  manganese  will  be  converted  into  man-  ' 
ganic  acid,  which  unites  with  the  potassa,  forming  potassium  manganate.  It  is  more 
convenient  to  supply  oxygen  by  means  of  an  oxidizing  agent,  such  as  potassium  nitrate 
or  chlorate,  the  former  of  which  will  supply  an  additional  quantity  of  alkali  for  uniting 
with  the  manganic  acid,  while  the  latter  will  be  converted  into  potassium  chloride,  which 
remains  mixed  with  the  manganate.  In  this  case  the  result  will  be  explained  by  the 
equation  6KOII  + 3Mn02  + KC10*  = 3K2Mn04  + KC1  + 3H20.  The  proportions 
adopted  by  the  British  Pharmacopoeia  are  those  of  Gregory,  and  refer  to  a nearly  pure 
manganese  dioxide.  If  the  article  to  be  used  should  not  contain  at  least  93  per  cent, 
of  Mn02,  a correspondingly  larger  quantity  should  be  employed.  The  ignited  mass  con- 
tains, besides  the  potassium  manganate  and  chloride,  all  the  mineral  impurities  which 
were  present  in  the  black  oxide.  It  has  a green  color,  and  when  treated  with  a little  cold 
water  yields  a dark -green  solution,  which  may  be  evaporated  over  sulphuric  acid  in  vacuo, 
yielding  blackish-green  crystals.  These  dissolve  unchanged  in  solution  of  potassa,  but 
yield  with  water  a solution  which  rapidly  acquires  a red  color  from  the  decomposition  of 
the  manganate  into  permanganate,  manganese  dioxide,  and  potassium  hydroxide ; 
3K2MN04  -f-  2H20  yields  2KMn04  -f-  Mn02  4KOH.  On  account  of  this  change  of 
color  the  green  manganate  was  formerly  known  as  chameleon  mineral.  The  potassium 
hydroxide  which  is  liberated  in  the  reaction  with  water  will  dissolve  a portion  of  the 
manganate  without  change  until  combined  with  carbonic,  sulphuric,  or  other  acid,  when 
the  whole  of  the  manganate  will  be  decomposed  as  stated.  After  the  impurities  and 
manganic  oxide  have  subsided  the  clear  liquid  is  drawn  off,  the  sediment  drained  and 
washed  upon  asbestos  or  powdered  glass  (since  a paper  or  muslin  filter  would  decompose 
the  permanganate),  and  evaporated  to  crystallization.  The  first  crop  or  two  of  crystals 


POTASSTI  PEBMANGANAS. 


1311 


are  usually  pure  ; subsequently  they  become  mixed  with  potassium  chloride  and  sulphate, 
and  require  to  be  purified  by  recrystallization.  Finally,  the  other  salts  accumulate  in 
the  mother-liquors  to  such  an  extent  that  crystals  of  pure  permanganate  can  no  longer 
be  obtained,  and  the  liquids  are  advantageously  used  for  disinfecting,  bleaching,  or  other 

purposes. 

Graeger  (1866)  proposed  to  utilize  manganic  oxide,  which  may  be  obtained  in  large 
quantities  and  at  little  expense  from  the  liquors,  in  the  preparation  of  chlorine.  The 
process  of  Stadeler  (1868)  for  converting  the  potassium  manganate  into  permanganate  by 
means  of  chlorine  gas,  and  without  separation  of  manganic  oxide,  is  apt  to  contaminate 
the  product  with  small  quantities  of  potassium  chlorate,  but  with  due  care  yields  the 
crystallized  salt  equal  to  85  or  90  per  cent,  of  the  weight  of  the  black  manganese  used. 

In  a process  proposed  by  Squibb  (1864)  the  formation  of  other  crystallizable  salts  is 
avoided  by  heating  the  intimate  mixture  of  potassa  and  maganese  dioxide  thoroughly  to 
short  of  redness ; while  the  mass  is  hot  a small  stream  of  water  is  directed  upon  it ; the 
heating  is  renewed  and  the  operation  several  times  repeated.  The  mass  is  exhausted 
with  water,  and  after  the  permanganate  has  been  crystallized  the  mother-liquor  is  evapo- 
rated and  used  over  again  in  place  of  a corresponding  quantity  of  potassa. 

Properties. — Potassium  permanganate  is  in  dark-purple  or  deep  violet-red,  nearly 
black  rhombic  prismatic  crystals,  which  have  a greenish  or  bluish  metallic  lustre,  do  not 
react  upon  turmeric  or  litmus-paper,  are  permanent  in  the  air  and  without 
odor,  and  have  a sweet,  astringent  taste.  A small  quantity  of  it  imparts  Fig.  232. 
to  a large  quantity  of  water  a rich  purple  tint,  which  is  destroyed  by 
organic  matter  and  deoxidizing  agents.  Alcohol,  acetone,  acetic  acid, 
oxalic  acid,  glycerin,  tartaric  acid,  citric  acid,  sugar,  gum,  tannin,  quinine, 
aniline,  gelatin,  and  many  other  organic  compounds  are  more  or  less  readily 
oxidized  in  the  cold  or  on  boiling.  According  to  Mitscherlich,  the  salt 
dissolves  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  in  16  parts  (16  parts  U.  S.)  (20.5  parts  P.  G.) 
of  water  and  in  2 parts  (3  parts  U.  S.)  of  boiling  water.  The  solution  of 
the  pure  salt  may  be  boiled  without  being  decomposed,  but  in  the  pres- 


ence of  much  potassa  it  acquires  a 


color  from  the  formation  of 


Crystal  of  Potas- 
sium Perman- 
ganate. 


manganate,  oxygen  being  given  off  at  the  same  time  ; K2Mn208  + 2KOH 
yields  2K2Mn04  + H20  -f-  0.  A diluted  solution  of  potassa  exerts  no 
reducing  action,  except  in  the  presence  of  organic  matter.  The  solution 
of  permanganate  is  decolorized  by  hydrogen  sulphide,  carbon  disulphide, 
thiosulphates,  sulphites,  phosphorus,  hypophosphites,  iodine,  iodides,  and 
many  other  inorganic  oxidizable  substances,  as  well  as  by  organic  com- 
pounds ; the  brown  oxide  which  precipitates  yields  with  diluted  sulphuric 
acid  a colorless  or  reddish  solution.  When  heated  to  redness  the  salt 
parts  with  a portion  of  its  oxygen  and  leaves  a black  residue  of  an  alka- 
line reaction,  from  which  water  extracts  potassium  hydroxide.  When 
thrown  upon  red-hot  charcoal  it  deflagrates,  and  upon  being  triturated 
with  sulphur  or  other  inflammable  bodies  the  mixture  is  decomposed  with  detonation. 
On  mixing  its  solution  in  a closed  vessel  with  glycerin,  syrup,  or  other  liquids  contain- 
ing organic  matter  a similar  decomposition,  accompanied  by  explosions,  will  take  place. 
A warm  concentrated  solution  of  it,  mixed  with  silver  nitrate  and  allowed  to  cool,  deposits 
large  crystals  of  silver  permanganate,  which  require  over  100  parts  of  water  for  solution 
and  are  decomposed  on  being  boiled  with  water.  The  stains  produced  by  potassium  per- 
manganate in  mortars  and  other  utensils  may  be  speedily  removed  by  a strong  solution  of 
oxalic  acid. 

Tests. — The  solution  of  the  salt  in  much  water  should  have  a rose  color,  without  a 
tinge  of  green  (absence  of  manganate).  “ If  0.5  Gm.  of  the  salt  be  boiled  with  10  Cc. 
of  ammonia-water  and  10  Cc.  of  water  (or  with  20  Cc.  of  water  and  4 Cc.  of  alcohol) 
until  it  is  completely  decomposed,  and  the  liquid  then  filtered,  the  clear,  colorless  filtrate 
will  serve  for  the  following  tests : 5 Cc.  of  the  filtrate,  acidulated  with  nitric  acid,  should 
not  be  rendered  more  than  very  slightly  turbid  by  the  addition  of  barium  chloride  test- 
solution  (limit  of  sulphate).  In  another  portion  of  5 Cc.,  acidulated  with  nitric  acid,  silver 
nitrate  test-solution  should  produce  no  precipitate  or  cloudiness  (absence  of  chloride). 
If  to  another  portion  of  5 Cc.  of  the  filtrate  1 drop  of  diphenylamine  test-solution  be 
added,  and  then  1 Cc.  of  pure  concentrated  sulphuric  acid  be  poured  in,  so  as  to  form  a 
layer  beneath,  no  blue  color  should  appear  at  the  line  of  contact  (absence  of  nitrate  or 
chlorate).  If  0.1  Gm.  jf  the  salt  be  dissolved  in  10  Cc.  of  boiling  distilled  water,  and 
1 Cc.  of  sulphuric  acid  be  cautiously  added,  the  solution  should  require  for  complete 


1312 


POTASSII  PERMANGANAS. 


decoloration  not  less  than  31.3  Cc.  of  decinormal  oxalic  acid  solution  (corresponding  to 
at  least  98.7  per  cent,  of  the  pure  salt).” — U.  S. 

The  official  test  with  oxalic  acid  depends  upon  the  following  reaction : 2KMn04  -f- 
5H2C204.2H20  + 3H2S04  = 10CO2  + K2S04  + 2MnS04  + 13H20  ; which  shows  that 
315.34  parts  of  potassium  permanganate  are  capable  of  oxidizing  628.5  parts  of  crystal- 
lized oxalic  acid.  As  each  Cc.  of  decinormal  oxalic  acid  solution  contains  0.006285  Gm. 
of  the  acid,  it  will  require  0.0031534  Gm.  of  potassium  permanganate  for  oxidation  : the 
31.3  Cc.  required  by  the  Pharmacopoeia  test  will  correspond  to  0.0987  Gm.  (0.0031534 
X 31.3)  of  KMn04,  which  is  equivalent  to  98.7  per  cent. 

The  British  Pharmacopoeia  requires  5 grains  of  the  salt  dissolved  in  water  to  be  com- 
pletely decolorized  by  a solution  of  not  less  than  44  grains  of  pure  ferrous  sulphate, 
acidulated  with  2 fluidrachms  of  diluted  sulphuric  acid.  This  test  depends  upon  the 
oxidation  of  10  molecules  of  ferrous  to  ferric  sulphate  by  1 molecule  of  pure  potassium 
permanganate. 

Action  and  Uses. — Applied  pure  to  the  sound  skin,  potassium  permanganate  pro- 
duces a brown  stain  ; upon  mucous  surfaces  it  causes  neither  pain  nor  irritation,  but 
smarting  and  burning  when  applied  to  a raw  surface.  Internally,  it  has  been  taken  in 
doses  of  from  8 to  10  grains  without  injury  in  a very  diluted  solution.  But  even  2- 
grain  doses  have  produced  symptoms  of  irritant  poisoning,  and  in  one  case,  apparently, 
abortion  ( Therap . Gaz .,  x.  746). 

Internally,  potassium  permanganate  has  been  used  in  diphtheria , diabetes , and  acute 
rheumatism , but  without  any  beneficial  results.  In  1882,  Ringer  and  Murrell  extolled 
this  salt  as  a most  efficacious  remedy  for  amenorrhoea  due  to  transient  causes,  such  as 
catching  cold,  and  even  where  the  suspension  is  due  to  repeated  pregnancies  and  suck- 
ling. It  was  given  in  doses  of  a grain  at  first,  but  gradually  increased  to  2 grains  four 
times  a day,  as  near  as  possible  to  the  regular  date  of  menstruation,  and  continued  for 
three  or  four  days.  Dr.  Gaillard  Thomas  has  stated  that  in  atonic  amenorrhoea  it  is,  when 
given  in  small  doses  (2-3  gr.)  and  continued  for  several  weeks,  “ the  best  emmenagogue  j 
yet  discovered.”  In  uterine  congestion  it  is  said  by  some  to  be  useless,  while  others 
declare  it  most  efficient  when  the  catamenia  of  strong  women  are  suspended  by  cold 
(Boldt,  Therap.  Gaz.,  xi.  31).  Dr.  L’voff  reports  it  to  be  efficient  in  almost  every  form 
of  amenorrhoea  ( Lancet , March  31,  1888),  and  Dr.  Stephenson  goes  even  farther  and 
maintains  that  it  controls  equally  excessive  and  scanty  menstruation  ( Therap . Gaz.,  xiii. 
557)  ; while  Mr.  Davies  ( Lancet , June,  1889,  p.  1132)  more  recently  declared  that  “the 
permanganates  completely  failed  in  numerous  instances,  without  one  partial  success  to 
redeem  them  from  the  limbo  of  utter  worthlessness  as  special  uterine  agents.”  Either  in 
pill  or  in  solution  the  medicine  is  apt  to  produce  a sense  of  substernal  pressure  or  heart- 
burn, and  in  the  latter  form  it  is  very  disagreeable  (. Practitioner , xxx.  128).  Locally,  it  I 
is  chiefly  employed  to  correct  fetor  in  cancer,  especially  of  the  uterus,  in  corroding  ulcers, 
diphtheria,  burns  and  frostbite,  ozsena,  abscesses,  caries,  and  gangrene.  In  these  cases  it  is  ’ 
applied  in  a strong  solution  with  a brush  or  sponge,  or  in  a weaker  solution  upon  pledgets  > 
and  compresses  of  lint.  A similar  application  has  been  made  to  boils  and  carbuncles  after 
incision,  or  by  injection.  In  ozsena  it  forms  one  of  the  best  palliatives  when  applied  with 
the  nasal  douche,  and  has  also  been  used  with  great  advantage  in  an  atomized  solution 
inhaled  in  gangrene  of  the  lung.  Injections  of  the  solution  and  lint  saturated  with  it  are 
among  the  best  means  of  treating  fetid  otorrlicea.  In  the  proportion  of  about  Gm.  0.20 
in  Gm.  32  (gr.  iij  in  ^j)  of  water  it  forms  an  excellent  mouth-wash  and  gargle  wh enfold 
breath  arises  from  carious  teeth  or  from  the  altered  secretions  of  the  faucial  glands.  As 
a wash  it  palliates  the  fetid  exhalations  of  the  feet  and  armpits  in  certain  persons  in  a 
solution  of  4 to  6 gr.  in  an  ounce  of  water,  and  is  useful  in  purifying  the  hands  from  the 
smell  acquired  in  dissecting-rooms,  in  post-mortem  examinations,  and  in  various  obstetrical 
and  surgical  manipulations.  Solutions  of  from  5 to  10  grains  of  the  salt  in  an  ounce  of 
water  have  cured  obstinate  eruptions  of  eczema , impetigo,  prurigo,  etc.,  and  full  baths  con- 
taining it  in  the  proportion  of  from  10  to  15  grains  to  a gallon  of  water  have  also  been 
used.  In  gonorrhoea  a solution  of  Gm.  0.06-0.12  in  Gm.  32  (gr.  j-ij  in  fgj)  of  water  is 
a very  efficient  injection.  It  seems  to  act  partly  as  a stimulant  of  the  urethral  mucous 
membrane,  and  partly  by  its  destructive  action  on  the  pus  which  is  the  vehicle  of  the 
specific  virus  in  true  gonorrhoea.  In  leucorrhcea  stronger  preparations  may  be  employed, 
and  the  same  may  be  applied  to  diminish  the  lochial  discharge  and  correct  its  fetor.  Solu- 
tions of  this  salt  have  been  widely  used  as  disinfectants.  But  if  the  infectious  qualities 
of  decomposing  animal  matter  are  to  be  measured  by  its  power  of  decolorizing  a solution 
of  potassium  permanganate,  then  a very  curious  conclusion  has  been  reached  by  Dr* 


POTASSJI  SULPHAS. 


1313 


Bougall  (1878) — viz.  that  1 ounce  of  such  matter,  represented  by  the  alvine  discharges 
of  typhoid  fever,  deoxidizes  not  less  than  10  ounces  of  Condy’s  liquid,  and  that  1 ounce 
of  urine  has  the  same  effect  on  at  least  2 ounces  of  that  liquid.  It  follows  from  these 
premises  that  each  patient  whose  excreta  are  so  treated  would  cost  five  dollars  a day  for 
this  item  alone.  It  is  more  than  probable,  therefore,  that  the  method  is  hardly  ever 
efficiently  carried  out.  This  salt  has  been  recommended  as  an  antidote  in  phosphorus- 
poisoning,  and  also  to  serpents’  poison  (Lacerda,  Bull,  de  T her  op.,  ci.  325 ; civ.  556  ; 
Richards,  Times  and  Gazette,  Jan.  1882,  p.  93).  The  observations  and  experiments  that 
refer  to  the  latter  subject  only  prove  that  the  permanganate  mixed  with  any  such  poison 
destroys  its  virulence,  and  that  if  introduced  into  the  wound  made  by  a venomous  animal 
immediately  on  the  infliction  of  the  wound  no  toxical  phenomena  will  arise.  Evidently, 
this  agent  destroys  the  constitution  of  the  poison.  The  introduction  of  the  salt  in  any 
other  way  than  that  indicated,  by  the  mouth,  by  intravenous  injection,  or  hypodermically, 
except  at  the  point  at  which  the  poison  entered,  is  useless.  It  seems  probable  that  such 
hypodermic  injection  of  wounds  made  by  rabid  animals  would  be  more  efficient  in  pre- 
venting rabies  than  any  other  form  of  cauterization. 

Water  contaminated  by  organic  matter  may  be  purified  and  rendered  palatable  by  add- 
ing to  it  drop  by  drop  a solution  of  the  permanganate  until  the  pink  color  of  the  solution 
ceases  to  be  destroyed  after  the  lapse  of  twenty-four  hours.  The  clear  liquor  may  then 
be  decanted  and  used  without  danger. 

A solution  of  not  more  than  6m.  0.12  in  Gm.  32  (gr.  ij  to  f%j)  of  pure  water  is  most 
appropriate  as  a commencing  injection  for  the  vagina  or  urethra  and  as  a wash  for  sim- 
ple wounds  and  ulcers.  A solution  of  Gm.  0.50  in  Gm.  32  (gr.  viij  in  f^j)  may  be  used 
for  disinfecting  purposes.  Sternberg  has  proposed  a solution  of  2 drachms  each  of  mer- 
curic chloride  and  potassium  permanganate  in  a gallon  of  water.  Internally,  it  may 
be  given  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.13-0.30  (gr.  ij-v)  dissolved  in  a large  quantity  of  water,  or, 
preferably,  in  pills  made  with  kaolin,  soft  paraffin,  or  lanolin,  and  administered  when  the 
stomach  contains  food.  The  oleate  of  manganese  has  been  suggested  as  less  irritating 
than  the  officinal  preparations.  The  stains  left  by  this  salt  upon  linen  may  be  removed 
by  washing  it  in  water  acidulated  with  sulphurous  or  muriatic  acid,  oxalic  acid,  salt  of 
sorrel,  or  simply  by  lemon-juice,  or  finally  by  a weak  solution  of  sulphate  of  iron. 

POTASSH  SULPHAS,  TJ.  S.,  JBr. — Potassium  Sulphate. 

Potassse,  sulphas , Kalium  sulfuricum , P.  G. ; Sulfas  potassicus  s.  kalicus  ; Arcanum 
duplicatum,  Tartarus  vitriolatus,  Sal  polychrestum  Glaseri. — Sulphate  of  potash,  E.  ; Sul- 
fate de  potasse , Fr. ; Kalium  Sulfat,  Schwefelsaures  Kali,  G. 

Formula  K2S04.  Molecular  weight  173.88. 

Origin. — This  salt  is  present  in  sea-water  and  in  various  mineral  waters,  in  the  ashes 
of  many  plants,  in  many  salt-beds,  and  in  the  lava  of  different  volcanoes.  It  is  obtained 
as  a secondary  product  in  many  chemical  processes,  such  as  the  preparation  of  iodine 
from  kelp,  of  nitric  acid  from  potassium  nitrate,  of  hydrochloric  acid  from  potassium 
chloride,  and  in  the  purification  of  potash,  etc.  It  appears  to  have  been  prepared  in  the 
fourteenth  century  from  the  saline  residue  left  in  the  preparation  of  nitric  acid,  and  to 
have  been  used  medicinally  by  Paracelsus  in  the  sixteenth  century.  Glaser  (1663)  pre- 
pared it  by  adding  sulphur  to  melted  saltpetre. 

Preparation. — In  the  manufacture  of  the  products  of  the  Stassfurt  mines  it  is 
obtained  by  decomposing  potassium  chloride  with  a hot  concentrated  solution  of  schoenite 
( magnesium  and  potassium  sulphate),  and  by  separating  the  potassium  sulphate  from 
the  double  chloride  of  potassium  and  magnesium,  which  is  formed  at  the  same  time, 
before  the  latter  can  crystallize.  In  Kalusz,  Galicia,  the  salt  is  prepared  from  kainite , a 
mixture  of  magnesium  and  potassium  sulphate  and  chloride,  by  exhausting  with  a little 
water,  boiling  the  residue  with  potassium  chloride,  and  granulating  the  newly-formed 
potassium  sulphate. 

Properties. — Potassium  sulphate  crystallizes  in  transparent,  colorless,  and  hard  six- 
sided  rhombic  prisms  or  pyramids,  or  combinations  of  the  two  forms.  It  is  permanent  in 
the  air,  inodorous,  has  a somewhat  sharp  and  saline  bitterish  taste,  is  neutral  to  test- 
paper,  has  the  specific  gravity  2.65,  and  yields  a white  powder.  The  salt  dissolves  at 
15°  C.  (59°  F.)  in  9.5  parts  of  water  and  in  4 parts  of  boiling  water  ( U.  S.).  It  is 
insoluble  in  alcohol,  but  dissolves  in  about  500  parts  of  diluted  alcohol.  The  aqueous 
solution,  acidulated  with  hydrochloric  acid,  gives  with  barium  chloride  a white,  with 
platinic  chloride  a yellow,  and  with  saturated  solution  of  sodium  bitartrate  a white  crys- 
83 


1314 


POT  A SSI  I SULPHIS. 


When  heated  it  decrepitates  strongly,  melts  at  a bright-red  heat 
without  decomposition,  and  at  a white  heat  volatilizes  slowly  in 
white  non-alkaline  vapors,  leaving  a residue  which  on  cooling  is 
crystalline  and  has  an  alkaline  reaction  ; when  mixed  with  an  excess 
of  ammonium  chloride  and  ignited  it  leaves  potassium  chloride.  It 
imparts  a purple  color  to  the  flame. 

Tests. — The  aqueous  solution  of  potassium  sulphate  should  not 
be  affected  by  hydrogen  sulphide  or  ammonium  sulphide  (absence  of 
heavy  metals),  nor  should  it  be  precipitated  by  ammonium  car- 
bonate or  oxalate  (calcium,  etc.)  or  by  silver  nitrate  (chloride). 
The  solution,  mixed  with  an  equal  volume  of  sulphuric  acid,  should 
not  give  a brown  or  black  color  on  the  addition  of  ferrous  sulphate 
(nitrate).  Held  in  a non-luminous  flame,  this  should  not  be  per- 
manently colored  yellow.  1 Gm.  of  potassium  sulphate,  when  com- 
pletely precipitated  by  barium  chloride,  yields  1.338  Gm.  of  dry 
barium  sulphate. 

Allied  Salt. — Potash  bisulphas,  KHS04  ; molecular  weight  135.85.  Potassium  bisulphate 
or  acid  sulphate  is  the  saline  mass  remaining  in  the  retort  on  preparing  nitric  acid  from  potas- 
sium nitrate  and  sulphuric  acid,  and  may  be  obtained  in  needle-shaped  prisms  by  dissolving  it  in 
less  than  its  own  weight  of  boiling  water  and  cooling.  The  crystals  are  colorless  and  transparent, 
have  a strongly  acid  taste,  an  acid  reaction  to  litmus,  are  fusible  when  heated,  congealing  on 
cooling  to  a translucent  mass,  and  at  a higher  heat  are  decomposed,  with  the  evolution  of  oxygen 
and  sulphur  dioxide,  neutral  potassium  sulphate  being  left.  The  salt  dissolves  without  change 
in  2 parts  of  cold  water,  but  when  dissolved  hi  a larger  quantity  of  hot  water  neutral  sulphate 
crystallizes  on  cooling,  the  liquid  containing  sulphuric  acid.  A like  decomposition  into  neutral 
sulphate  and  acid  is  occasioned  by  alcohol. 

Action  and  Uses. — Under  the  name  of  Sal  de  duohus  or  Sal  polijchrest  potassium 
sulphate  was’formerly  used  as  a purgative.  It  acts  in  a smaller  dose  than  other  salines, 
but  is  apt  to  occasion  colicky  pain  and  burning  in  the  abdomen.  In  several  instances 
doses  of  Gm.  16-132  (^ss-ij)  have  caused  fatal  poisoning  and  collapse.  After  death 
inflammation  of  the  gastro-intestinal  mucous  membrane  was  found.  Its  dose  as  a purga  1 
tive  is  Gm.  8-16  (.^ij-iv),  but  it  is  seldom  prescribed,  nor  does  any  good  reason  appear 
that  it  should  be  so  employed.  The  bisulphate  is  represented  as  possessing  the  qualities 
of  the  sulphate  in  a more  marked  degree. 

POTASSII  SULPHIS. — Potassium  Sulphite. 

I 

Kalium  sulfur  os  am,  Sidfis  potassrcus  s.  kalicus . — Sulfite  de  potasse , Fr.  ; Kaliumsulfit , j 
Schwefligs anres  Kali , G.  \ 

Formula  K2S03.2H20.  Molecular  weight  189.84. 

Preparation. — On  passing  sulphur  dioxide  into  a solution  of  potassium  carbonate  j 
until  the  carbon  dioxide  has  been  expelled,  and  adding  an  equal  weight  of  potassium  car- 
bonate, the  sulphite,  having  the  above  composition,  will  crystallize  on  evaporation. 

Properties. — Potassium  sulphite  crystallizes  in  oblique  rhombic  octahedrons,  which 
are  inodorous  or  of  a slight  sulphurous  odor,  somewhat  deliquescent,  dissolve  freely  in 
water,  are  sparingly  soluble  in  alcohol,  show  an  alkaline  reaction  to  test-paper,  and  have 
a bitter  saline  and  sulphurous  taste.  Rammelsberg  ascertained  that  an  aqueous  solution 
of  the  salt  saturated  in  the  cold  becomes  turbid  on  heating  and  clear  again  on  cooling. 
Fourcroy  and  Vauquelin  determined  the  salt  to  be  soluble  in  its  own  weight  of  cold 
water  ; others  state  the  solubility  as  being  1 part  in  4 parts  of  water  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.) 
and  in  5 parts  of  boiling  water.  When  heated  the  salt  gives  off  water,  evolves  sulphur 
dioxide,  and  leaves  finally  a mixture  of  potassium  sulphate,  sulphide,  and  hydroxide.  On 
exposure  to  the  air  it  is  oxidized  and  gradually  converted  into  sulphate  ; it  should  there- 
fore be  preserved  in  well-stoppered  bottles.  On  adding  sulphuric  or  hydrochloric  acid  to 
its  solution  the  odor  of  burning  sulphur  is  given  off,  but  no  turbidity  from  liberated  sul- 
phur is  produced  (difference  from  thiosulphate).  This  solution  gives  the  reactions  ot 
uotassium  salts  on  the  addition  of  platinum  chloride  or  of  tartaric  acid  or  of  saturated 
solution  of  sodium  bitartrate.  The  commercial  salt  is  usually  in  the  form  of  white 
opaque  crystalline  fragments  or  powder,  obtained  by  evaporating  the  aqueous  solution. 

Composition. — The  salt  contains  48.5  per  cent.  K20,  33  per  cent.  S02,  and  18.5  per 
cent.  H.,(). 

Tests. — A 1 per  cent,  aqueous  solution  of  the  salt,  strongly  acidulated  ^vith  hydro- 


talline,  precipitate. 
Fig.  233. 


Crystal  of  Potassium 
Sulphate. 


POTASSII  TARTRAS. 


1315 


chloric  acid,  should  produce  no  precipitate,  or  at  most  only  a white  cloudiness,  on  the 
addition  of  a few  drops  of  test-solution  of  barium  chloride  (limit  of  sulphate).  If  0.485 
Gm.  of  the  salt  be  dissolved  in  25  Cc.  of  water,  and  a little  gelatinized  starch  added,  at 
least  45  Cc.  of  the  volumetric  solution  of  iodine  should  be  required  until  a permanent 
blue  tint  appears  after  stirring  (corresponding  to  at  least  90  per  cent,  of  pure  potassium 
sulphite).  The  same  amount  of  the  volumetric  solution  of  iodine  is  required  by  0.27 
Gm.  of  pure  potassium  bisulphite. 

Allied  Salt. — Potassium  bisulphite,  KHSOs;  molecular  weight  119.89.  It  is  prepared  by 
passing  into  a concentrated  solution  of  potassium  carbonate  an  excess  of  sulphur  dioxide  and 
adding  strong  alcohol.  The  salt  crystallizes  in  white  needles,  has  a sulphurous  taste  and  neutral 
reaction  to  test-paper,  and  on  exposure  slowly  evolves  sulphur  dioxide.  On  passing  sulphurous 
acid  gas  into  a warm  saturated  solution  of  potassium  carbonate  the  liquid  finally  becomes  green- 
ish, and  on  cooling  deposits  hard,  glossy,  tabular  crystals  of  potassium  pyrosulphite , K2(S02)20, 
which  have  a saline  taste,  and  on  heating  give  off  sulphur  and  sulphur  dioxide,  leaving  potassium 
sulphate. 

Action  and  Uses. — Potassium  sulphite  is  believed  to  possess  the  same  power 
of  controlling  fermentation  and  putrefaction  which  belongs  to  the  sulphites  of  sodium 
and  magnesium.  But  it  is  much  less  used  than  either.  It  may  be  given  internally,  in  a 
very  dilute  solution,  to  the  extent  of  Gm.  8-16  (gij-iv)  in  the  twenty-four  hours.  The 
thiosulphate  and  the  bisulphite  have  analogous  properties,  and  the  latter  has  sometimes 
been  used  externally  as  a stimulant  and  deodorizer. 

POTASSII  TARTRAS,  Br.— Potassium  Tartrate. 

Potassse  tartras , Kalium  tartar i 'cum , P.  G . ; Tartras  potassicus  s.  7c aliens,  Tartarus  solu- 
bilis. — Tartrate  of  potash,  Soluble  tartar , E. ; Tartrate  de  potasse , Tartre  soluble,  Sel  vege- 
tale,  Fr. ; Kaliumtartrat,  Neutrales  weinsaures  Kali , G. 

Formula  K2C4H406.H20.  Molecular  weight  243.66. 

Preparations. — This  salt  appears  to  have  been  known  in  the  sixteenth  century. 
Boerhaave  (1742)  prepared  it  by  neutralizing  cream  of  tartar  with  salt  of  tartar,  and 
named  it  tartarus  tartarisatus.  That  a solution  of  the  same  salt  is  obtained  on  neutraliz- 
ing cream  of  tartar  with  lime  was  shown  by  Bouelle  and  Marggraf  (1770).  It  is  obtained 
in  the  first  part  of  the  process  for  making  tartaric  acid  (see  page  110),  but  it  is  usually 
prepared  by  Boerhaave’s  process,  or  preferably  with  potassium  bicarbonate,  using  25 
parts  of  this  salt,  47  parts  of  pure  potassium  bitartrate,  and  about  100  parts  of  boiling 
water.  The  neutral  or  faintly  alkaline  solution  is  concentrated  until  a pellicle  forms  and 
set  aside  to  crystallize  ; the  crystals  are  drained  and  dried.  The  mother-liquor  is  further 
concentrated,  and  when  it  begins  to  yield  colored  crystals  may  be  decomposed  by  hydro- 
chloric acid  to  obtain  the  remaining  salt  as  bitartrate.  The  yield  of  crystallized  potassium 
tartrate  is  about  55  or  56  parts. 

The  British  Pharmacopoeia  directs  9 ounces  of  potassium  carbonate,  20  ounces  of  acid 
potassium  tartrate,  and  50  ounces  of  water,  and  proceeds  in  all  essential  details  as  stated 
above.  In  the  reaction  between  the  two  salts  1 molecule  of  cream  of  tartar  decomposes 
\ molecule  of  dry  potassium  carbonate  or  1 molecule  of  potassiunrbicarbonate,  forming  the 
neutral  tartrate ; 2KHC4H406  + K2C03  yields  2K2C4H406  + C02  + H20,  and  KHC  JI406  + 
KHCO:i  yields  K2C4H406  + C02  -J-  H20.  Provided  the  salts  are  pure,  it  will  be  observed 
that  16  parts  of  anhydrous  carbonate  will  require  43|-  parts  of  bitartrate,  and  9 parts  of 
the  former  24£  parts  of  the  latter,  for  complete  neutralization.  In  the  last  formula  there 
is  a considerable  excess  of  carbonate,  which  requires  to  be  neutralized  by  the  further 
addition  of  bitartrate.  If  the  latter  has  been  contaminated  with  calcium  tartrate,  this  salt 
may  be  decomposed  by  prolonged  boiling  with  potassium  carbonate,  calcium  carbonate 
being  deposited.  Calcium  tartrate  is  soluble  in  a solution  of  potassium  tartrate,  and, 
unless  decomposed  as  stated,  is  best  removed  by  evaporating  the  solution  to  dryness, 
granulating  the  salt,  and  treating  it  with  twice  its  weight  of  cold  water,  when  most  of  the 
calcium  tartrate  will  be  left  undissolved.  The  same  treatment,  and  for  the  same  reason, 
is  also  advisable  if  potassium  tartrate  is  obtained  as  a by-product  in  the  manufacture  of 
tartaric  acid,  by  neutralizing  cream  of  tartar,  diffused  in  boiling  water,  with  calcium  car- 
bonate, when  potassium  tartrate  contaminated  with  calcium  tartrate  will  remain  in  solution. 

Properties.  Potassium  tartrate  crystallizes  in  four- or  six-sided  colorless  and  trans- 
parent crystals  of  the  monoclinic  system,  which  in  the  presence  of  calcium  tartrate  are 
white  and  rather  opaque.  It  is  more  frequently  met  with  as  a granular  or  fine  white 
powder,  is  inodorous,  has  a saline  bitterish  taste,  is  without  action  on  litmus-paper,  and 


1316 


POTASSII  TARTRAS. 


may  be  heated  to  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  without  losing  in  weight ; but  at  180°  C.  (356°  F.)  1 
molecule  (3.8  per  cent.)  of  water  is  given  off  (Dumas  and  Piria),  and  near  220°  C.  (428° 
F.)  about  5.5  per  cent,  of  acetone  and  other  volatile  products,  the  residue  containing 
potassium  carbonate ; above  this  temperature  the  salt  becomes  colored,  melts,  gives  off 
inflammable  vapors  with  the  odor  of  burnt  sugar,  and  leaves  a black  residue  having  an 
alkaline  reaction  and  effervescing  strongly  with  acids.  Heated  with  sulphuric  acid,  it 
forms  a black  tarry  fluid,  evolving  inflammable  gas  and  the  odor  of  burning  sugar.  It 
requires  240  parts  of  boiling  alcohol  for  solution,  and  is  nearly  insoluble  in  cold  alcohol. 
The  salt  absorbs  moisture  on  exposure  to  the  air,  and  is  gradually  liquefied  when  kept  in 
a damp  atmosphere.  According  to  Osann,  it  dissolves  at  2°  C.  (35.6°  F.)  in  .75  part,  at 
14°  C.  (57.2°  F.)  in  .66  part,  and  at  64°  C.  (147.2°  F.)  in  .47  part,  of  water.  The 
aqueous  solution  yields  with  calcium  chloride  a white  precipitate  soluble  in  acetic  acid 
and  in  cold  potassa  solution,  and  it  gives  a white  precipitate  with  silver  nitrate,  becoming 
black  on  boiling.  Acetic  acid  added  to  its  aqueous  solution  causes  the  separation  of  a 
white  crystalline  precipitate  consisting  of  potassium  bitartrate. 

Tests. — When  122  grains  are  heated  to  redness  till  gases  cease  to  be  evolved,  the 
alkaline  residue  will  require  for  exact  neutralization  990  grain-measures  of  the  volu- 
metric solution  of  oxalic  acid. — Br.  If  sodium  is  present,  a larger  quantity  of  the  acid 
solution  will  be  required.  Sodium  would  also  be  indicated  by  the  yellow  color  imparted 
to  a non-luminous  flame  by  the  alkaline  residue  left  on  ignition.  Carbonate  is  detected 
by  the  effervescence  on  the  addition  of  an  acid,  and  ammonia  by  its  odor  on  warming  the 
solution  with  potassa  or  soda.  “A  5 per  cent,  aqueous  solution  of  the  salt  should  not 
be  affected  by  ammonium  sulphide  (iron,  zinc,  lead,  aluminum),  nor  by  ammonium 
oxalate  (calcium),  nor  after  acidulation  with  hydrochloric  acid  by  hydrogen  sulphide 
(lead,  copper,  etc.),  or  by  barium  nitrate  (sulphate).  A similar  solution  of  the  salt  acid- 
ulated with  nitric  acid  should  at  most  become  opalescent  on  the  addition  of  silver  nitrate 
(chloride.)” — P.  G. 

Composition. — The  French  Codex  recognizes  the  anhydrous  salt  K2C4H4C6,  mol. 
weight  225.7.  The  Br.  P.  gives  the  formula  K2C4H406.H20,  and  by  its  alkalimetric  test 
admits  1 per  cent,  of  impurity. 


t1 

t 


Other  Soluble  Tartars. — The  name  of  soluble  tartar  was  formerly  applied  also  to  other  tar- 
trates, of  which  two  are  still  recognized  by  European  pharmacopoeias : 

Tartarus  boraxatus,  P.  G.  Cremor  tartari  solubilis,  Kalium  tartaricum  boraxatum,  Borax 
tartarisata. — Boro-tartrate  of  potassium  and  sodium,  E. ; Tartro-borate  de  potasse  et  de  soude, 
Fr. ; Boraxweinstein,  G. — 2 parts  of  borax  are  dissolved  in  15  parts  of  distilled  water  and  digested  ; 
with  5 parts  of  cream  of  tartar.  When  entirely  dissolved  the  filtered  liquid  is  evaporated  w’ith 
constant  stirring,  the  resulting  residue  dried  in  thin  layers,  and  while  still  warm  reduced  to 
powder  and  preserved  in  well-corked  bottles. — P.  G.  It  is  a white,  amorphous,  deliquescent  \ 
powder  of  an  agreeably  acidulous  taste  and  acid  reaction.  It  is  soluble  in  its  own  weight  of  cold 
and  less  than  half  its  weight  of  boiling  water,  insoluble  in  alcohol,  and  when  heated  is  decomposed,  j 
leaving  a residue  of  borax  potassium  carbonate  and  charcoal.  The  aqueous  solution  of  the  salt  ■ 
is  not  disturbed  by  acetic  acid  or  by  a small  quantity  of  diluted  sulphuric  acid,  but  after  the  f 
addition  of  tartaric  acid  a crystalline  precipitate  is  produced.  Moistened  with  sulphuric 
acid,  the  salt  imparts  a green  color  to  the  flame  of  alcohol.  A 10  per  cent,  aqueous  solution 
should  not  be  altered  by*  ammonium  sulphide  (metals),  should  not  evolve  ammonia  on  being 
warmed  with  potassa,  should  not  be  precipitated  by  ammonium  oxalate  (calcium),  and  after  the 
addition  of  a few  drops  of  nitric  acid  it  should  not  be  precipitated  by  barium  nitrate,  and  should 
merely  become  opalescent  with  silver  nitrate. 

Potassii  tartro-boras,  Tartras  borico-potassicus. — Potassium  boro-tartrate,  E. ; Tartrate borico- 
potassique,  Creme  de  tartrate  soluble,  Tartre  borate,  Fr. ; Borsaureweinstein,  G. — 4 parts  of 
cream  of  tartar,  1 of  boric  acid,  and  10  of  water  are  heated  together  until  dissolved ; the  solution 
is  evaporated  to  dryness  and  the  residue  powdered. — F.  Cod.  It  forms  a white  inodorous  powder 
or  may  be  obtained  in  thin  transparent  scales,  has  an  acidulous  taste,  is  not  deliquescent,  and 
dissolves  in  2 parts  of  cold  water.  When  long  kept  it  becomes  less  soluble  in  water,  but  its 
solubility  is  restored  on  treating  it  with  boiling  water. 

Ammonii  et  potassii  tartras,  Tartarus  solubilis  ammoniatus. — Potassium  and  ammonium 
tartrate,  E. ; Tartras  de  potasse  et  d’ammoniaque,  Fr. ; Weinsaures  Ammoniak-Kali,  G.  KN1I4- 
C4II406. — It  is  prepared  by  diffusing  1 part  of  cream  of  tartar  in  2\  or  3 parts  of  boiling  water, 
adding  ammonium  carbonate  as  long  as  effervescence  takes  place,  filtering,  and  crystallizing.  It 
is  well  to  render  the  solution  alkaline  by  the  addition  of  a little  ammonia.  The  double  salt  crys- 
tallizes in  transparent  prisms  having  a pungent  and  cooling  saline  taste  and  becoming  opaque  on 
exposure  from  loss  of  ammonia.  It  is  soluble  in  about  2 parts  of  cold  and  less  than  its  own 
Weight  of  hot  water. 

Action  and  Uses. — Potassium  tartrate  appears  to  promote  the  urinary  secretion 
when  given  in  small  doses  freely  diluted,  but  in  larger  quantities  it  operates  as  a la^a- 


PRENA  NTHES. — PRIM  ULA . 


1317 


tive.  It  is  excreted  by  the  kidneys  as  potassium  carbonate,  in  full  doses,  rendering 
the  urine  alkaline.  It  may  be  used  as  a mild  cooling  purgative  in  all  affections  requiring 
saline  aperients.  It  acts  more  gently  than  the  sodium  or  magnesium  sulphate.  Like 
other  salines,  it  renders  the  bile  more  liquid  and  promotes  its  secretion,  and  hence  it  may 
be  used  in  cases  of  hepatic  and  portal  congestion , and  especially  for  the  relief  of  hsemor- 
rhoidal  swellings.  It  is  not  unusual  to  associate  it  with  senna,  manna,  or  rhubarb,  which 
concur  in  producing  those  effects,  and  with  scammony  and  gamboge  to  mitigate  the  griping 
operation  of  those  medicines.  It  is  not  very  often  used  at  present.  As  a purgative  its 
dose  is  from  Gm.  16-32  (gss-j). 

Potassium  and  sodium  boro-tartrate  is  a mild  laxative  or  diuretic  when  given  dis- 
solved in  a large  proportion  of  water,  the  former  in  doses  of  from  Gm.  16-32  (§ss-j),  and 
the  latter  in  doses  of  from  Gm.  0.60—2  (gr.  x-xxx).  Husemann  mentions  larger  doses 
Gm.  25-60  (^vj-^ij)  for  purgation,  and  adds  that  the  preparation  is  costly,  and  that  a 
convenient  and  cheaper  substitute  for  it  may  be  prepared  by  mixing  2 parts  of  cream  of 
tartar  with  1 part  of  borax.  The  ammonium  and  potassium  tartrate  has  also  been  used 
as  a diuretic  and  a laxative  in  the  doses  first  above  mentioned. 

PRENANTHES. — Rattlesnake-root. 

Lion's-foot,  White  lettuce , Cancer  weed , Gall  of  the  earth. 

Prenanthes  (Harpalyce,  Don ) alba,  Dinne , s.  Nabalus  albus,  Hooker. 

Nat.  Ord. — Compositae,  Liguliflorae. 

Description. — This  North  American  perennial  grows  in  rich  soil  on  the  borders  of 
woods,  and  flowers  in  July  and  August.  The  stem  is  .9-1.8  M.  (3  to  6 feet)  high,  pur- 
plish and  glaucous,  branched  above,  and  grows  from  a tuberous,  spindle-shaped  root.  The 
leaves  are  petiolate,  angular,  hastate,  the  radical  ones  palmately  five-  or  seven-lobed,  those 
of  the  stem  ovate-roundish  and  sinuate-toothed  ; the  flower-heads  are  in  loose,  racemose 
cymes,  drooping,  have  a cylindrical  involucre,  with  the  linear,  purplish,  and  white  scales 
in  a single  row,  and  a few  bractlets  at  the  base,  and  contain  from  eight  to  twelve  ochro- 
leucous  or  purplish  florets,  with  linear-oblong,  striate,  and  unbeaked  akenes,  and  a pale- 
brownish  pappus  composed  of  several  rows  of  rough  hairs.  All  parts  of  the  plant  contain 
a milky  juice  and  have  a bitter  taste.  The  variety  serpentaria  has  the  lower  leaves  almost 
palmately  divided  and  the  stem-leaves  three-lobed  or  deeply  toothed. 

No  analysis  of  its  constituents  has  been  made. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  extreme  bitterness  of  the  root  of  this  plant  caused  it  to  be 
used  as  a domestic  tonic  in  the  Southern  States.  Nearly  thirty  years  ago  it  was  affirmed 
to  be  a certain  remedy  for  the  rattlesnake  s bite , in  confirmation  of  a long  antecedent 
tradition.  “The  milky  juice  of  the  plant  was  taken  internally,  and  the  leaves,  steeped 
in  water,  were  applied  to  the  wound  and  frequently  changed.”  No  recent  addition 
appears  to  have  been  made  to  these  statements. 

PRIMULA . — Primrose  . 

Cowslip , E. ; Primevere , Fr. ; Schliisselblume , Primel , G. ; Primavera , Sp. 

Primula  officinalis,  Jacquin , s.  P.  veris,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Primulaceae. 

Origin. — The  primrose  is  an  acaulescent  perennial  indigenous  to  woodlands  and 
grassy  places  of  Europe  and  Northern  Asia  and  frequently  cultivated  in  gardens. 

Description. — The  subterraneous  portion  consists  of  a short,  upright,  brownish,  and 
scaly  root-stalk,  beset  with  a number  of  fleshy  rootlets,  and  containing  a thick  mealy 
bark  and  a yellowish  meditullium.  The  flowers  {flores  primulde ) are  upon  short  or 
elongated  scapes  in  umbels  of  ten  or  twelve  pendulous  flowers;  the  calyx  is  12  Mm. 
(£  inch)  or  more  long,  pentangular,  tubular,  somewhat  inflated,  acutely  lobed,  and  pale- 
yellowish  ; the  corolla  is  about  25  Mm.  (1  inch)  long,  funnel-shaped,  five-lobed,  the  lobes 
obcordate,  of  a lemon-yellow  color,  and  has  in  the  throat  five  saffron-colored  spots.  The 
corolla  alone  is  collected.  It  has  when  fresh  a honey-like  odor  and  a sweetish  taste,  and 
on  drying  usually  acquires  a dark -greenish  color.  The  fresh  root  has  a slight  sweetish 
odor  and  a sweetish  afterward  bitterish  and  acrid  taste. 

Constituents. — The  odor  of  the  root  and  flowers  appears  to  be  due  to  a small  quan- 
tity of  a butyraceous  volatile  oil.  The primulin  of  Iliinefeld  is  considered  by  Gmelin  to 
be  identical  with  mannit.  The  acrid  principle  is  either  saponin  or  closely  related  to  it ; 
Paladin  (1830)  regarded  it  as  identical  with  cyclamin. 


1318 


PRINOS. 


Allied  Plants. — Primula  elatior,  Jacquin.  The  flowers  are  large  and  inodorous;  the  corolla 
is  sulphur-yellow,  and  has  a flat  margin,  with  emarginate,  not  cordate,  lobes. 

Primula  auricula,  Linn6.  The  auricula  is  a native  of  mountainous  regions  of  Europe,  and, 
like  both  preceding  species,  often  cultivated ; the  corolla  is  fragrant,  in  the  wild  state  lemon- 
yellow,  and  has  a flat  margin ; the  short  calyx  has  rather  obtuse  lobes. 

Anagallis  arvensis,  Linne. — Red  chickenweed,  Red  pimpernel,  Weather-glass,  E.;  Mouron 
rouge,  Fr. ; Gauchheil,  Rothe  Miere,  G. — A European  weed  naturalized  in  sandy  fields  of  North 
America.  It  has  a procumbent  or  ascending  branched  quadrangular  stem  and  opposite  or 
whorled  sessile  ovate  and  three-nerved  leaves,  entire  on  the  margin  and  blackish-punctate  be- 
neath ; the  small  flowers  are  axillary,  long-peduncled,  and  have  a brick-red  corolla  little  exceed- 
ing the  calyx.  An.  ccerulea,  Schreber , the  blue  pimpernel,  has  a blue  corolla.  The  plants  are 
inodorous  and  have  a somewhat  bitter  and  acrid  taste,  which  is  due  to  saponin  (D.  Malapert,  1857) 
or  to  cyclamin  (Saladin,  1830). 

Lysimaciiia  nummularia,  Linn 4. — Moneywort,  E. ; Monnayere,  Fr. ; Pfennigkraut,  G. — A 
creeping  European  plant,  frequently  cultivated  and  somewhat  naturalized  in  North  America. 
The  leaves  are  short-petioled,  roundish,  smooth,  and  finely  brown  punctate  ; the  flowers  are 
axillary,  bright-yellowq  and  rather  large. 

Lysimachia  quadrifolia,  Linn6. — Crosswort.  It  is  a common  North  American  herb,  with  an 
erect  hairy  stem,  with  petiolate  lance-ovate  leaves  in  whorls  of  four  and  five,  and  with  long- 
peduncled,  axillary  yellow  flowers. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  bitter,  astringent,  and  acrid  taste  of  the  root,  and  also  the 
aroma  of  the  flowers  of  this  plant,  doubtless  first  led  to  its  being  employed  medicinally, 
and  the  discovery  in  it  of  a substance  compared  to  saponin  by  some,  and  to  mannit  or 
senegin  by  others,  confirms  the  popular  belief  that  it  possesses  medicinal  virtues.  Pliny 
speaks  of  its  popular  esteem  as  a panacea,  “ In  aqua  potam  omnibus  morbis  mederi 
tradunt.”  It  is  represented  as  being  a stimulant  of  the  bronchia  and  of  the  stomach, 
its  powdered  root  is  an  active  sternutatory,  and  the  whole  plant  was  formerly  held  to  be 
anodyne,  narcotic,  and  antispasmodic,  and  was  used  by  noted  physicians  of  the  last  two 
centuries  for  the  relief  of  toothache , insomnia , spasmodic  hysterical  attacks,  hemicrania, 
dysmenorrhcea , and  muscular  rheumatism.  So  fixed  was  the  belief  in  its  power  of  curing  , 
gout  sand  paralysis  that  among  the  names  it  bore  were  radix  arthritica , radix  par alyseos. 
An  infusion  of  the  flowers  was  thought  to  be  especially  adapted  to  functional  nervous 
disorders.  A decoction  of  the  root  was  given  for  the  cure  of  gravel , and  an  infusion  in 
wine  or  beer  as  a vermifuge.  In  England  a fermented  drink  known  as  “ cowslip  wine  ” 
has  long  been  one  of  the  most  esteemed  articles  of  the  domestic  pharmacopoeia,  and  in 
some  parts  of  Germany  an  allied  species,  P.  auricula,  has  for  centuries  been  used  as  a 
remedy  for  consumption.  It  will  be  well  if  some  of  the  heroic  medicines  of  the  present 
day  shall,  after  as  great  a lapse  of  time,  have  as  favorable  a record  of  their  virtues  as  this 
humble  plant  enjoys.  The  dose  of  the  flowers  is  stated  to  be  Gm.  1-1.30  (gr.  xv-xx),  \ 
and  an  infusion  is  made  with  from  5 to  10  parts  to  100  of  water. 

Primula  obconica,  an  English  variety  of  primrose,  is  said  to  produce  erythematous 
or  eczematous  eruptions  on  the  skin  resembling  those  caused  by  Rhus  toxicodendron  ‘ 
(. Lancet , Oct.  1890,  p.  633).  ; 

PRINOS.— Black  Alder. 

W interberry,  Feverbush , E. ; Prinos , Fr.,  G. 

The  bark  of  Prinos  verticillatus,  Linne , s.  Ilex  verticillata,  Gray . 

Nat.  Ord. — Aquifoliaceae. 

Origin. — The  black  alder  or  winterberry  is  a shrub  growing  in  low  swampy  ground 
in  Canada  and  the  United  States.  It  has  alternate  oval  or  obovate,  acuminate,  serrate 
leaves  about  5 to  8 Cm.  (2  or  3 inches)  long,  downy  on  the  veins  beneath,  and  nar- 
rowed into  petioles  about  12  Mm.  (J  inch)  long.  The  small  whitish  flowers  are  dioeciously 
polygamous,  have  a subrotate,  six-parted  corolla,  usually  six  stamens,  and  are  in  little 
umbels,  all  on  very  short  peduncles.  The  fruit  is  a globose,  bright-red,  six-seeded  berry, 
which  is  persistent  in  winter,  grows  in  clusters,  apparently  verticillate,  and  has  an  acidu- 
lous and  bitter  taste.  The  plant  flowers  in  May  and  June,  and  ripens  the  fruit  in 
October. 

Description.— The  bark  is  in  slender  pieces,  6-12  Mm.  (1  or  1 inch)  wide,  or  in 
fragments  about  1 Mm.  inch)  thick,  fragile  ; externally  of  a brownish  ash-color,  with 
irregular  light-gray  or  whitish  patches  lined  with  black  and  sprinkled  with  minute  black 
or  small  brown  circular  spots.  Older  bark  is  marked  with  short,  transverse,  oblong,  shal- 
low scars,  often  margined  with  ridges.  The  inner  surface  is  pale-greenish  or  orange-yel- 
low, shortly  striate,  otherwise  smooth,  and  has  frequently  thin  sections  of  the  white  wood, 


PR  UNUM.—PR  UN  US  VIRGINIA  NA . 


1319 


adhering.  The  bark  breaks  with  a short  fracture,  and  shows  upon  transverse  section  a 
green  color  and  a tangential  arrangement  of  tissue.  It  is  inodorous,  and  has  a bitter, 
somewhat  astringent  taste. 

Constituents. — L.  C.  Collier  (1880)  found  in  the  bark  chlorophyll,  wax,  resin,  tan- 
nin, sugar,  starch,  albumen,  and  an  amorphous  yellow  bitter  principle  which  is  precipi- 
tated by  basic  lead  acetate  and  by  salts  of  platinum,  silver,  mercury,  and  tin. 

Allied  Species. — Prinos  (Ilex,  Gray)  l^evigatus,  Pursh,  grows  in  wet  grounds  in  the  Northern 
States,  and  southward  in  the  mountains  to  Virginia,  and  is  distinguished  by  its  lanceolate  or  lance- 
oblong  and  smooth  leaves,  and  by  the  staminate  flowers  being  on  slender  peduncles. 

Prixos  glaber,  Linn£,  s.  Ilex  glabra,  Gray , known  as  inkberry , is  found  near  the  coast  from 
Massachusetts  southward,  but  chiefly  in  the  Southern  States.  It  has  coriaceous,  smooth,  lan- 
ceolate, or  oblong  leaves,  with  a wedge-shaped  base,  and  serrate  near  the  apex ; the  berries  are 
black. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  bark  of  black  alder  is  astringent  and  tonic,  and  is  popu- 
larly employed  in  intermittent  fever  and  diarrhoea , as  a topical  application  to  gangrenous 
and  other  ill-conditioned  sores , and  both  internally  and  locally  in  chronic  cutaneous  erup- 
tions. It  is  prescribed  in  substance  in  doses  of  Gm.  2 (gr.  xxx),and  in  a decoction  made 
with  Gm.  64  (gij)  of  the  bark  in  3 pints  of  water  boiled  to  a quart,  of  which  the  dose 
is  Gm.  32-96  (f^j— iij).  A saturated  tincture  is  also  prepared  with  the  berries  as  well  as 
with  the  bark. 

PRUNUM,  U.  S.,  Br.— Prune. 

Pruneau  noir , F.  Cod. ; Pjlaume , Zwetsche , G. ; Ciruela , Sp. 

The  fruit  of  Prunus  domestica,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 96. 

Nat.  Ord. — Rosaceae,  Amygdaleae. 

Origin. — The  plum  tree  is  indigenous  to  Western  Asia.  It  has  been  cultivated  from 
a very  early  period,  and  is  now  met  with  in  most  countries  having  a temperate  climate. 
A large  number  of  varieties  have  been  produced,  differing  in  the  size,  color,  and  shape  of 
the  fruit.  The  tree  is  about  6 M.  (20  feet)  high,  without  thorns,  has  oval-elliptic  serrate 
leaves  and  whitish  pedunculate  flowers,  either  solitary  or  in  pairs.  Some  botanists  con- 
sider the  subglobular  plums  to  be  the  cultivated  varieties  of  Prunus  insititia,  Linne , 
which  resembles  the  other  species,  but  is  thorny  and  has  elliptic  or  somewhat  lanceolate 
leaves.  The  Br.  P.  orders  the  ovoid  or  oblong  fruit  of  the  var.  Juliania,  DeC. 

Description. — The  dried  fruit  is  a subglobular  or  oblong  drupe  of  a dark-blue  or 
purplish-blue  color,  glaucous,  shrivelled,  with  a shallow  longitudinal  furrow,  the  sarco- 
carp  brownish-yellow,  and  the  putamen  hard,  oblong,  somewhat  oblique,  more  or  less 
flattened,  smooth,  or  with  irregular  ridges.  The  seeds  resemble  the  almond,  but  are 
smaller.  The  fleshy  portion  of  the  fruit,  which  is  alone  used,  has  an  agreeable,  sweet, 
and  acidulous  taste ; the  seed  has  the  taste  of  bitter  almond,  and  contains  about  25  per 
cent,  of  a yellow  bland  fixed  oil. 

Constituents. — Prune  contains  sugar,  pectin,  albumen,  malic  acid,  and  various  salts. 
The  sugar  of  the  different  varieties  varies  in  amount  between  about  12  and  25  per  cent, 
of  the  weight  of  the  fresh  fruit. 

Action  and  Uses. — Prunes  are  nutritious  and  laxative,  but  in  excess  are  apt  to 
create  flatulence  and  colic,  owing  chiefly  to  the  indigestibility  of  their  skins.  When 
stewed  with  sugar  they  relieve  costiveness , and  are  more  efficient  when  thus  prepared  with 
senna,  whose  tendency  to  gripe  they  partially  correct.  For  this  reason  they  enter  into 
the  confection  of  senna. 

PRUNUS  VIRGINIAN  A,  U.  8.— Wild -cherry  Bark. 

Ecorce  de  cerisier  de  Virginie , Fr.  ; Wild kirschenr hide , G. ; Corteza  de  cerezo , Sp. 

The  bark  of  Prunus  (Cerasus,  Loiseleur ) serotina,  Ehrhart , s.  Prunus  (Cerasus,  Mi- 
chaux ) virginiana,  Miller.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 97. 

Nat.  Ord. — Rosaceae,  Amygdaleae. 

Origin. — The  wild  cherry  is  a large  North  American  forest  tree,  growing  from  Canada 
to  Florida  and  westward  to  Eastern  Nebraska  and  Texas.  It  attains  the  height  of  18  to 
24  M.  (60  or  80  feet),  with  the  trunk  sometimes  1.2  M.  (4  feet)  in  diameter  and  undivided 
to  the  height  of  6 or  9 M.  (20  or  30  feet).  When  grown  in  the  open  field  it  is  usually 
much  smaller.  The  wood  is  compact,  close-grained,  and  pale-red  or  brownish-red.  The 
leaves  are  alternate  lance-oblong,  taper-pointed,  petiolate,  7 to  12  Cm.  (3  to  5 inches) 
long,  and  are  finely  serrate,  with  incurved  teeth.  The  small  white  flowers  are  in  elongated 


1320 


PRUNUS  VIRGINIAN  A. 


racemes  10-12  Cm.  (4  or  5 inches)  long,  and  terminal  on  the  branchlets.  The  fruit  is  a 
small,  globose,  purplish-black  drupe  of  a sweet  and  bitterish  taste.  The  subglobular  seed 
has  the  flavor  of  bitter  almonds,  and  contains  about  25  per  cent,  of  a bland  green-yellow 
fixed  oil,  which  readily  separates  a granular  deposit.  The  leaves  were  suggested  by  Prof. 
Procter  (1858)  as  a substitute  for  cherry -laurel  leaves,  and  found  to  yield  nearly  per 
cent,  of  hydrocyanic  acid  when  recently  collected.  This  species  has  long  been  confounded 
with  the  choke  cherry , Prunus  (Cerasus,  De  Candolle)  virginiana,  Marshall , s.  Prunus 
obovata,  Bigelow.  This  is  likewise  a native  of  Canada  and  the  United  States,  but  grows 
westward  to  Colorado  and  Central  Texas.  It  is  shrubby,  about  2.4  or  3 M.  (8  or  10  feet) 
high,  or  arborescent,  has  thinner  oval  or  obovate  and  abruptly  pointed,  sharply  serrate 
leaves,  short  and  close  racemes,  and  red  or  purplish  fruits  of  an  astringent  and  bitterish 
taste. 

Description. — Wild-cherry  bark  is  met  with  in  irregular  fragments  or  slightly  curved 
pieces ; the  thinner  pieces  are  obtained  from  the  branches  and  trunks  of  younger  trees, 
are  2 Mm.  (TL  inch)  or  more  thick,  externally  of  a blackish -gray  or  greenish-brown  color, 
smooth  and  somewhat  shining,  or  partly  deprived  of  the  exfoliating  corky  layer,  and  then 
of  a greenish  or  light  yellowish-brown.  Older  bark  has  usually  the  outer  corky  layer 
removed,  is  3 Mm.  (i  inch)  and  more  in  thickness,  and  has  a rather  uneven  outer  surface 
of  a rust-brown  color.  The  inner  surface  is  smooth,  somewhat  striate,  cinnamon-colored 
or  rust-brown.  The  bark  is  brittle,  breaks  with  a granular  fracture,  is  radially  striate 
upon  transverse  section,  and  yields  a pale  reddish-brown  powder.  It  has  a very  slight 
odor  while  dry,  but  when  macerated  in  water  it  develops  the  odor  of  bitter  almond ; its 
taste  is  astringent,  aromatic,  and  bitter,  with  the  flavor  of  bitter  almond.  The  thick 
corky  layer  of  old  bark,  if  present,  should  be  rejected.  The  bark  should  be  collected  in 
October. 

Constituents. — Stephen  Procter  (1834)  showed  the  bark  to  contain  tannin,  gallic 
acid,  resin,  starch,  and  other  common  vegetable  principles,  and  obtained  by  distillation  a 
volatile  oil  containing  hydrocyanic  acid.  This  volatile  oil  was  further  examined  by  Prof 
Procter  (1837,  1838),  and  found  to  agree  in  the  main  with  the  volatile  oil  of  bitter 
almond,  and,  like  this,  to  be  produced  from  amygdalin  by  the  action  of  a proteid  resem- 
bling emulsin  or  perhaps  identical  with  it.  It  is  coagulated  or  altered  by  heat,  and  the 
powdered  bark,  introduced  into  hot  water,  does  not  yield  any  volatile  oil.  J.  S.  Perot 
(1852)  ascertained  that  the  bark  collected  in  autumn  yielded  three  times  as  much  hydro- 
cyanic acid  as  that  collected  in  April.  From  the  latter  he  obtained  .0478  per  cent. ; when 
gathered  in  October  the  yield  was  .1436  per  cent.,  or  1 grain  HCy  from  100  grains  of  the 
bark,  which  would  therefore  be  equal  to  about  7 or  8 drops  of  official  hydrocyanic  acid. 
The  same  author  ascertained  also  that  the  bitter  principle  of  wild-cherry  bark  is  not 
phlorizin.  J.  L.  Williams  (1875)  obtained  the  bitter  principle  by  concentrating  the 
aqueous  infusion,  mixing  it  with  an  equal  bulk  of  alcohol,  agitating  with  milk  of  lime, 
evaporating  the  filtrate,  and  exhausting  the  residue  with  hot  alcohol,  on  the  spontaneous 
evaporation  of  which  a transparent,  brownish,  somewhat  gelatinous,  bitter  mass  was  left ; 
it  was  insoluble  in  ether,  somewhat  soluble  in  water,  more  soluble  in  alcohol,  and  was 
colored  brown-red  by  sulphuric  acid.  Power  and  Weimar  (1888)  deny  the  existence  of 
amygdalin  in  the  bark,  but  state  that  the  volatile  oil  and  hydrocyanic  acid  are  produced 
from  a body  closely  related  to  that  of  cherry-laurel  leaves.  Emulsin  or  synaptase  could 
not  be  isolated  by  the  process  used  for  preparing  the  same.  They  furthermore  isolated 
the  fluorescent  principle  in  the  form  of  white  crystals.  The  bark  from  the  trunk,  as  well 
as  from  the  root,  was  found  by  J.  L.  Lemberger  (1871)  to  contain  the  largest  proportion 
of  tannin  when  collected  in  October,  and  to  yield  then  also  infusions  of  a dark  wine-color. 
C.  F.  Kramer  (1882)  estimated  the  tannin  with  gelatin  and  found  3.42  per  cent. 

Action  and  Uses. — Wild-cherry  bark  is  tonic  through  its  bitter  principle,  and  more 
or  less  sedative  through  the  hydrocyanic  acid  which  it  generates  with  water.  For  the 
latter  effect,  however,  very  large  doses  are  required.  It  is  more  used  in  pulmonary  con- 
sumption than  in  any  other  disease,  under  the  impression  that  it  improves  the  appetite 
and  strengthens  the  digestion,  while  it  moderates  the  cough  and  allays  the  irritability  of 
the  nervous  system.  It  is  a gentle  and  harmless  palliative  in  this  disease,  while  its  use 
may  prevent  the  employment  of  opiate  and  expectorant  mixtures,  whose  injurious  influ- 
ence on  the  digestion  outweighs  their  utility  in  moderating  the  cough.  It  is  particularly 
useful  in  cases  of  nervous  cough  produced  by  reflex  action,  or  even  by  slight  bronchial  or 
laryngeal  irritation,  ft  is  equally  useful  during  convalescence  from  various  acute  diseases 
when  febrile  excitement  is  maintained  by  general  debility  of  the  system.  Palpitation 
of  the  heart  is  reputed  to  be  especially  under  its  control.  When  this  symptom  depends 


PSORA  LEA  .—PTELEA . 


1321 


upon  organic  causes  the  medicine  is  inadequate  to  allay  it  except  in  a very  slight  degree ; 
but  when  it  is  associated,  as  it  more  frequently  is,  with  anaemic,  chlorotic,  dyspeptic,  or 
nervous  disorders,  the  bark  is  sometimes  of  real  advantage.  The  cold  infusion  forms  a 
useful  collyrium  in  mild  cases  of  acute  ophthalmia. 

The  dose  of  the  powdered  bark  is  stated  to  be  Grin.  2-4  (gr.  xxx-lx).  The  cold  infu- 
sion and  the  fluid  extract  are  more  efficient  and  eligible  preparations ; the  syrup  is  chiefly 
to  be  recommended  as  a flavoring  agent. 

PSORALEA. — Psoralea. 

Psorale , Fr. ; Psoralie , Driisenhlee , G. 

Nat.  Ord. — Leguminosae,  Papilionaceae. 

Description. — The  genus  is  characterized  by  a five-cleft  persistent  calyx  having  the 
lowest  lobe  longest,  by  diadelphous  or  sometimes  monadelphous  stamens,  by  a short  one- 
seeded  pod,  the  pointed  end  of  which  projects  from  the  calyx,  and  by  the  glandular  dots 
with  which  the  calyx,  and  frequently  also  the  leaves,  are  more  or  less  covered.  The  fol- 
lowing species  have  been  employed  : 

Psoralea  melilotoides,  Michaux , s.  P.  eglandulosa,  Elliott , grows  in  dry  soil  in  the 
Southern  and  Western  United  States,  is  a slender,  erect,  pubescent,  and  slightly  glandular 
herb,  and  has  a spindle-shaped  root,  trifoliate  leaves  with  oblong-lanceolate  rather  obtuse 
leaflets,  and  long-peduncled,  oblong,  finally  elongated  spikes  of  purplish  flowers ; the 
legume  is  nearly  orbicular  and  transversely  wrinkled.  The  plant  has  a slight  aromatic 
odor  and  a somewhat  spicy  and  bitterish  taste.  It  flowers  in  June  and  July,  and  should 
be  collected  when  in  full  bloom. 

P.  esculenta,  Pursh,  has  a tuberous  or  turnip-shaped  farinaceous  edible  root,  which 
is  known  as  bread-root  and  likewise  as  Indian  turnip , and  formerly  as  pomme  blanche 
and  pomme  de  prairie.  It  grows  on  the  prairies  from  Wisconsin  to  Missouri  and  west- 
ward. 

P.  glandulosa,  Linne,  was  formerly  said  to  yield  yerba  mate  (see  page  862).  It  is  a 
shrub  of  Chili,  with  rough  glandular  petioles,  ovate-lanceolate,  acute  glandular  leaflets, 
and  white  or  blue  flowers.  The  root  is  emetic,  and  the  leaves  have  aromatic  properties, 
their  flavor  resembling  that  of  rue. 

P.  pentaphylla,  Linne,  of  Mexico,  has  a thick  root,  which  is  sometimes  known  as 
white  contrayerva  from  its  color  and  medicinal  properties. 

P.  bituminosa,  Linne , of  Southern  Europe,  is  suffruticose  and  has  a disagreeable 
bituminous  odor. 

P.  corylifolia,  Linne,  is  indigenous  to  India  and  Arabia,  has  a whitish  angular  stem 
and  simple  ovate  somewhat  cordate  and  toothed,  glandular  leaves  with  short  ovate  ciliate 
stipules.  The  herb  has  a resinous,  aromatic,  and  bitter  taste,  and,  like  the  seeds  known 
in  India  as  bauchee  seeds,  is  used  as  a tonic  in  skin  diseases. 

Several  other  species  of  Psoralea,  in  addition  to  the  two  named  above,  are  indigenous 
to  the  United  States.  They  all  appear  to  contain  resin,  volatile  oil,  tannin,  and  bitter  prin- 
ciple, but  have  not  been  sufficiently  analyzed. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  leaves  and  the  root  of  some  of  the  species  have  a bitter, 
pungent,  and  aromatic  taste,  but  it  is  most  decided  in  the  root.  Psoralea  has  been  described 
as  a gentle  stimulating  and  tonic  nervine,  and  compared  in  its  action  to  Chinese  tea.  It 
is  said  to  have  been  used  with  advantage  in  chronic  diarrhoea  depending  upon  strumous 
conditions  of  the  mesenteric  glands,  and  in  chronic  dyspepsia  attended  with  vomiting  of 
blood.  The  medicine  has  been  administered  chiefly  in  the  form  of  a tincture  prepared 
with  several  other  plants  besides  Psoralea,  so  that  its  special  virtues  cannot  be  extricated 
from  the  compound  effect.  The  dose  of  the  tincture  is  stated  to  be  from  Gm.  12—24 
(feiij-vj)  several  times  a day.  As  far  as  can  be  judged,  it  appears  to  partake  of  the 
qualities  of  aromatic  and  bitter  tonics  in  general.  (See  a paper  by  Prof.  Maisch  on  the 
genus  Psoralea  (Mmer.  Jour.  Phar.,  lxi.  345),  which  contains  an  account  of  the  use  of 
P.  esculenta,  or  prairie  turnip,  which  is  used  by  the  Indians  as  food.) 

PTELEA. — Shrubby  Trefoil. 

Hoptree,  Waferasli,  E. ; Orme  d trois  feuilles,  Fr. ; llopfenbaum,  Kleebaum,  G. 

Ptelea  trifoliata,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Rutaceae,  Xanthoxyleae. 

Description. — The  hop  tree  is  a handsome  North  American  shrub  growing  south- 


1322 


PULSATILLA. 


ward  and  westward  from  New  Jersey  and  Pennsylvania,  chiefly,  however,  west  of  the 
Alleghanies,  and  is  cultivated  in  Europe.  The  shrub  is  about  2.4  to  3.6  M.  (8  to  12 
feet)  high,  with  dark-brown  branches,  which,  like  the  leaves,  are  downy  when  young. 
The  leaves  are  alternate,  petiolate,  light-green,  and  trifoliate,  with  sessile,  pointed,  indis- 
tinctly-serrate,  and  finely  pellucid-punctate  leaflets,  of  which  the  lateral  ones  are  obliquely 
ovate,  and  very  uneven  toward  the  base,  the  outer  half  being  broadest,  while  the  larger 
terminal  one  is  elliptic  or  obovate  and  wedge-shaped  at  the  base.  They  are  from  7 to  12 
Cm.  (3  to  5 inches)  long,  when  broken  exhale  a rather  unpleasant  odor,  and  have  a bitter 
and  somewhat  astringent  taste.  The  small  greenish-white  polygamous,  flowers  are  in 
compound  terminal  cymes,  have  a disagreeable  odor,  and  are  followed  by  a flat  orbicular 
fruit,  which  is  two-celled  and  two-seeded,  and  is  surrounded  by  a circular  membranous 
and  slightly  emarginate  wing,  the  whole  fruit  being  about  2 Cm.  (|  inch)  in  diameter 
and  of  a pleasant  hop-like  flavor.  The  fruit,  leaves,  and  bark  of  the  root  have  been 
employed.  The  latter  is  in  fragments  and  irregular  quills  of  a brown  color,  longitudinally 
wrinkled,  lighter  and  smooth  on  the  inner  surface,  breaks  with  a short  fracture,  and  has  a 
bitter  and  pungent  taste. 

Constituents. — G.  M.  Smyser  (1862)  found  in  the  leaves  tannin,  and  gallic  acid , in 
the  fruit  a soft  acrid  resin , and  in  the  bark  a reddish-brown  resin  soluble  in  ether  and 
alcohol  and  of  a pungent  and  acrid  taste.  All  parts  contain  volatile  oil  and  other  prin- 
ciples commonly  met  with  in  plants.  Justin  Steer  (1867)  isolated  berberine  from  the 
bark,  and  regards  it  as  the  bitter  and  tonic  principle. 

Allied  Plant. — Ptei.ea  angustifolia,  Bentham , a native  of  Colorado,  has  lanceolate  pubescent 
leaves,  and  a smaller  more  deeply  notched  fruit  than  the  preceding. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  bark  of  the  root  appears  to  be  aromatic  and  tonic,  and 
has  been  used  in  tincture  and  infusion  for  dyspepsia  and  as  a stimulant  in  typhoid  febrile 
states.  The  leaves  and  young  shoots  have  also  been  employed  in  strong  infusion  as 
anthelmintics.  Of  its  administration  we  only  know  that  a spirit  made  by  macerating  6 
ounces  of  the  bark  and  2 ounce  of  ginger  in  2 quarts  of  whisky  was  prescribed  in  the 
dose  of  Gm.  16-32  (1  or  2 tablespoonfuls)  three  times  a day.  How  much  of  the  stimu- 
lant effects  was  due  to  the  alcohol  and  how  much  to  the  ginger,  and  how  much  remained 
for  the  share  of  the  trefoil,  has  not  been  estimated. 

Ptelea  trifoliata  is  said  by  Shoepf  to  be  “ anthelmintic , for  which  purpose  the  leaves 
and  the  young  shoots  are  used  in  strong  infusion.  The  fruit  is  aromatic  and  bitter,  and  is 
stated  to  be  a good  substitute  for  hops.” 

PULSATILLA,  77.  S, — Pulsatilla. 

Pasque-flower , E. ; Anemone , Pulsatille , Coquelourde , Fr. ; Kiichenschelle , G. ; Pulsatila , 
Sp. 

The  flowering  herb  of  Anemone  Pulsatilla,  Linne  (s.  Pulsatilla  vulgaris,  Miller ),  and 
of  Anemone  (Pulsatilla,  Miller ) pratensis,  Linne , collected  soon  after  flowering.  Meehan, 
Nat.  Flowers , i.  p.  49. 

Nat.  Ord. — Ranunculaceae,  Anemoneae. 

Origin. — -The  first  two  species  are  indigenous  to  the  greater  portion  of  Europe,  and 
grow  also  in  Siberia  in  sandy  soil  and  in  dry,  open  woodlands.  The  section  Pulsatilla 
differs  from  the  other  species  of  Anemone  in  having  a narrowly-divided  involucre,  large 
flowers,  and  long  feathery  styles,  which  are  permanent  in  the  fruit.  The  plants  flower 
early  in  spring,  from  March  to  May.  They  should  be  collected  after  the  flowers  have 
expanded,  and  should  be  carefully  preserved  and  kept  not  longer  than  one  year. 

Description. — A.  pratensis  lias  a dark-brown,  oblique,  several-headed  root,  and  pin- 
nately  two-  or  three-cleft,  petiolate  radical  leaves  with  linear  acute  segments,  and  at  the 
base  surrounded  by  several  ovate  lanceolate  sheaths.  The  flowering  scape  is  about  15 
Cm.  (6  inches)  high,  and  be'ars  a single  nodding  bell-shaped  flower  reflexed  at  the  apex, 
varying  in  color  between  dark-violet  and  light-blue,  and  surrounded  by  a*  distant  sessile 
involucre  composed  of  three  palmately-divided  and  cleft  bracts  with  linear  lobes.  The 
numerous  ovaries  are  prolonged  into  a feathery  tail  (style).  All  herbaceous  parts  are 
clothed  with  long,  soft,  silky  hairs,  are  nearly  inodorous,  but  when  rubbed  exhale  a very 
acrid  vapor  and  have  a burning,  acrid  taste.  A.  pulsatilla  closely  resembles  the  former, 
but  has  the  flowers  erect  and  sepals  spreading  above,  but  not  reflexed. 

Constituents. — The  fresh  plants  of  the  section  Pulsatilla,  when  distilled  with  water, 
yield  a distillate  from  which  ether  extracts  a very  acrid  yellow  oil,  which  is  gradually 
or  more  rapidly  in  the  presence  of  water,  converted  into  anemonin  and  anemonic  acid, 


PULSATILLA. 


1323 


from  which  hot  alcohol  dissolves  the  former.  Basiner  (1881)  found  the  yellow  oil  as 
well  as  the  anemonin  to  be  soluble  in  glacial  acetic  acid,  from  which  solution  they  are 
removed  by  agitation  with  benzene.  Anemonin,  which  was  first  observed  by  Stbrck  (1771), 
and  investigated  by  Heyer  (1779),  forms  colorless  friable  crystals  which  are  neutral, 
inodorous,  and  when  fused  exceedingly  acrid,  soluble  in  chloroform,  nearly  insoluble  in 
ether  and  water;  the  composition  of  these  crystals,  according  to  Fehling  (1841),  is 
Ci5H1206.  Lowig  and  Weidmann  (1839)  and  Fehling  (1841)  observed  that  boiling  baryta- 
water  converts  it  into  a brown  amorphous  acid.  Anemonic  acid,  0I5H1407,  is  a white 
crystalline  tasteless  powder  insoluble  in  most  simple  solvents,  and  dissolves  in  alkalies 
with  a yellow  color.  Similar  results  were  obtained  with  American  pulsatilla  by  A.  W. 
Miller  (1862)  and  F.  E.  Miller  (1873). 

Pharmaceutical  Preparation. — Extractum  pulsatilla.  The  expressed 
juice  of  the  fresh  flowering  herb  is  heated,  strained  to  remove  albumen,  evaporated  to  a 
small  bulk,  mixed  with  an  equal  measure  of  alcohol,  filtered,  and  evaporated  to  the  proper 
consistence. 

Allied  Plants. — Acrid  properties  resembling  those  of  the  preceding  plants  are  met  with  in  most 
species  of  Anemone,  which  are  distinguished  from  the  section  Pulsatilla  chiefly  by  the  styles  being 
much  shorter  and  not  feathery.  An.  nemorosa,  Linne , wind-flower  or  wood  anemone  (Anemone 
des  bois,  Sylvie,  Fr.  Cod.),  a native  of  the  northern  hemisphere,  has  a long-petiolated  trifoliate  leaf 
with  ovate  or  elliptic  cut  and  toothed  leaflets,  an  involucre  of  three  similar  leaves,  and  a white  or 
purplish  flower.  An.  coronaria,  Linnt,  has  been  employed  in  the  Levant,  where  it  is  indigenous  ; 
it  is  sometimes  met  with  in  gardens.  An.  sylvestris  and  An.  ranunculoides,  Linni,  indigenous 
to  Northern  Asia  and  Europe,  are  used  in  Siberia.  These  species  lose  some  of  their  acrid  prop- 
erties by  drying,  and  rapidly  deteriorate  on  keeping. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  bruised  fresh  plant  rubbed  upon  the  skin  irritates  and 
may  even  vesicate  it.  The  extract  and  tincture  cause  a sense  of  burning  and  numbness 
in  the  mouth.  Internally,  pulsatilla  may  inflame  the  stomach  and  bowels  and  cause 
fatal  convulsions.  In  medicinal  doses  it  is  reported  to  act  as  a general  excitant  (Schroft). 
Anemonin  applied  to  the  tongue  occasions  a severe  burning  pain  and  persistently 
benumbs  its  sensibility.  Internally,  it  acts  as  a general  stimulant  and  a diuretic. 
Heyer  (1779)  related  that  an  amaurotic  patient  who  was  taking  about  Gm.  0.03  (£ 
grain)  of  anemonin  twice  a day  experienced  a dreadful  sense  of  tension  in  the  head  and 
copious  diuresis  (Husemann).  Brunton  states  that  the  extract  of  pulsatilla,  when  given 
in  a fatal  dose,  always  causes  convulsions. 

Different  species  of  Anemone  were  recognized  by  ancient  physicians  as  being  identical 
in  their  medicinal  power.  According  to  Galen,  the  anemones  are  endowed  with  acrid, 
drawing,  cleansing,  and  opening  virtues.  When  chewed,  anemone  excites  a secretion  of 
mucus,  its  juice  cleanses  the  brain  and  nostrils,  and  lessens  or  removes  opacities  of  the 
cornea.  It  purifies  foul  ulcers,  cures  lepra  and  pityriasis,  is  emmenagogue  and  galacta- 
gogue.  Neither  Dioscorides,  Pliny,  nor  the  Arabians  added  anything  to  this  enumeration, 
and  the  medicine  seems  to  have  been  almost  forgotten  until  the  close  of  the  eighteenth 
century.  Pulsatilla  nigricans  was  then  highly  praised  by  Stbrck  and  some  of  his  contem- 
poraries as  an  efficient  remedy  for  opacities  of  the  cornea,  cataract , paralysis,  rheumatism, 
amenorrhoea,  melancholy,  constitutional  syphilis,  old  ulcers,  and  scaly  diseases  of  the  skin. 
In  the  last-named  affections  he  held  it  to  be  peculiarly  useful,  generally  prescribing  the 
extract  in  doses  of  1 or  2 grains,  and  gradually  increasing  them  to  Gm.  0.10-1  (15 
grains).  But  subsequent  observers  of  the  best  repute  imitated  Storck’s  practice  without 
obtaining  his  results.  The  author  who  relates  this  history  of  Storck’s  use  of  the  drug 
(Cazin)  suggests  that  its  more  recent  failures  were  due  to  the  use  of  an  improperly  made 
extract.  He  refers  to  several  physicians  of  previous  generations  who  wrote  of  its  singu- 
lar efficacy  in  whooping  cough,  visceral  engorgements,  gravel,  comatose  attacks,  and  obstruc- 
tions of  the  nostrils.  Deniau  used  pulsatilla  in  several  nervous  disorders,  and  concluded 
that  the  medicine  is  “ a direct  sedative  of  nervous  irritability,  but  only  indirectly  a vascu- 
lar sedative”  (Bull,  de  Therap.,  civ.  81).  By  the  greater  number  of  recent  writers  on 
the  materia  medica  the  medicine  is  either  wholly  unnoticed  or  its  virtues  are  described  in 
accordance  with  the  above  history,  which,  it  will  be  observed,  assigns  to  it  the  characters 
of  a panacea,  so  diverse  and  numerous  are  the  diseases  which  it  is  reported  to  have  cured. 
This  list  of  incongruous  diseases  benefited  by  pulsatilla  may  be  lengthened  by  nervous 
headache  produced  by  overtaxing  the  mind  (Tucker),  and  by  dysmenorrhora,  which  in 
several  cases  was  cured  by  2 drops  of  a tincture  of  pulsatilla  taken  before  meals  for  three 
days  before  the  menstrual  epoch  (Piffard).  The  latter  physician  reports  that  in  epididy- 
mitis he  administered  5-drop  doses  of  the  tincture  with  the  effect  of  aggravating  the 


1324 


PULVERES. 


inflammation,  while  he  rapidly  cured  seven  or  eight  cases  of  the  disease  by  doses  of 
“ one-tenth  of  a minim  well  diluted,  and  administered  every  two  or  three  hours.”  No 
other  treatment  was  employed.  Similar  statements  have  been  made  by  Sturgis  ( Med . i 
News,  xlii.  267)  ; Lawson  ( Therap . Gaz.,  viii.  271)  ; Martel  {Bull,  de  Therap.,  cviii.  129  ; j 
cx.  207)  ; Smith  ( Edinb . Jour.,  xxxii.  747)  ; Bovet,  Dornand  {Ann.  de  Ther.,  1889,  p.  187)  ; 
but  Carter  ( Lancet , Aug.  1889,  p.  216)  did  not  find  that  it  influenced  at  all  the  course 
of  epididymitis.  From  this  summary  it  may  fairly  be  concluded  that  pulsatilla  is  either 
a remedy  of  extraordinary  an.d  incomprehensible  power,  or  that  the  reporters  of  its  cures 
have  been  misled  by  their  imagination  or  a neglect  of  the  precautions  necessary  in  study- 
ing the  virtues  of  medicines. 

The  powdered  herb  was  formerly  prescribed  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.25-0.30  (gr.  iv-v),  and  j 
an  infusion  made  with  the  fresh  plant  in  wine  or  water  Gm.  4 in  Gm.  100  (3j-^iij)  was 
given  during  the  day  in  divided  doses. 

A tincture  of  the  fresh  root,  made  with  equal  weights  of  the  root  and  of  90  per  cent, 
alcohol,  has  been  given  in  the  dose  of  10-20  drops  three  times  a day.  The  alcoholic 
extract  may  be  used  in  doses  of  from  Gm.  0.03-0.20  (gr.  ss-iij).  Anemonin  is  directed  in 
doses  of  Gm.  0.01-0.03  (gr.  £-J)  in  pilular  form. 


PULVERES. — Powders. 

Poudres , Fr. ; Pulver , G. 

Preparation. — All  solid  drugs  may  be  reduced  to  powder,  but  the  means  by  which 
pulverization  is  effected  must  vary  very  considerably  according  to  the  nature  of  the  drug. 
The  large  majority  of  crystallized  chemical  compounds  are  readily  powdered  by  tritura- 
tion in  a porcelain  or  Wedgewood  mortar;  many  of  those  which  are  insoluble  or  sparingly 
soluble  in  alcohol  may  be  powdered  by  precipitating  them  from  their  concentrated  solution 
by  pouring  it  slowly  and  with  continual  agitation  into  alcohol.  Compounds  which  are 
insoluble  in  water  may  frequently  be  obtained  in  a more  or  less  fine  powder,  which  is 
either  amorphous  or  crystalline,  by  means  of  double  decomposition  and  precipitation. 
Soluble  compounds  may  also  be  powdered  by  evaporating  their  solution,  and,  as  it  thickens, 
by  stirring  it  continually,  so  as  to  disturb  crystallization  or  prevent  the  compound  from 
separating  as  a solid  mass.  This  process  is  termed  granulation , and  is  equally  applicable 
to  fusible  substances,  which,  after  having  been  liquefied  by  heat,  are  stirred  or  triturated 
while  they  are  cooling  and  congealing.  Volatile  compounds  and  elements  (calomel,  sul- 
phur, etc.)  may  be  finely  powdered  by  sublimation,  and  by  suddenly  condensing  their  hot 
vapors  in  a large  chamber  with  a current  of  air,  or,  if  insoluble  in  water,  with  a current 
of  steam. 

In  several  of  these  processes  the  powder  is  not  obtained  of  uniform  fineness,  and  then 
requires  to  be  sifted,  or  the  finer  particles  are  separated  from  the  coarser  by  means  of 
elutriation,  which  process  consists  in  diffusing  the  powder  in  water  and  decanting  from  the 
heavy  sediment.  The  fine  powder,  which  remains  longest  in  suspension,  is  then  per- 
mitted to  subside,  and,  after  withdrawing  the  liquid,  dried.  It  is  evident  that  only  those 
substances  are  adapted  to  this  treatment  which  are  heavier  than  water,  and  which  are 
entirely  insoluble  therein  ; elutriation  is  usually  preceded  by  levigation,  which  is  simply 
a process  of  trituration  in  the  presence  of  sufficient  moisture  to  render  the  mass  soft. 
The  operation  is  performed  either  in  a mortar  or  upon  a slab  by  the  aid  of  a muller. 

Drugs  which  are  composed  of  vegetable  tissue  or  which  consist  of  exudations  cannot, 
as  a rule,  be  reduced  to  powder  by  these  means.  In  these  cases  contusion  is  required, 
and  this  is  the  method  most  frequently  employed.  The  substance  is  placed  in  a rather 
deep  mortar,  and  broken  by  perpendicular  strokes  with  the  flattened  surface  of  a heavy 
pestle.  The  process  is  called  bruising  if  the  substance  is  to  be  broken  merely  into  a 
coarse  powder.  If  the  drug  contains  a certain  amount  of  oil  or  resin,  the  heat  produced 
by  the  pounding  will  often  render  the  material  more  or  less  soft  or  adhesive.  This 
result  is  best  prevented  by  exposing  the  drug  to  a low  temperature  and  powdering  in 
the  cold,  when  it  will  retain  its  pulverulent  condition  at  ordinary  temperatures,  or,  if  it 
conglomerates,  it  may  be  rubbed  into  powder  by  slight  trituration.  Mortars  made  of 
iron  or  brass  are  best  adapted  for  preparing  powders  by  contusion.  Some  tough  mate- 
rials are  conveniently  reduced  to  powder  by  rasping. 

Most  of  the  vegetable  powders  are,  however,  prepared  on  a large  scale  at  the  drug-mills 
by  grinding,  the  grinding  surface  being  a bed  of  hard  stone  upon  which  either  iron  balls 


PUL  VERES. 


1325 


or  millstones  are  made  to  revolve.  A draught  is  thereby  created  which  carries  the  fine 
powder  up  to  a certain  height,  and  if  this  alone  is  collected  it  is  called  a dusted  powder. 
Oily  seeds  and  similar  material  cannot  profitably  be  powdered  in  this  manner,  because  by 
the  pressure  and  heat  created  by  the  grinding  the  oil  rises  to  the  surface  and  agglutinates 
a part  of  the  powder.  Such  material  is  best  ground,  or  rather  cut,  between  horizontal 
millstones  suitably  prepared  for  the  purpose.  A number  of  drug-mills  which  may  be 
worked  by  hand  have  been  constructed,  and  serve  a good  purpose  for  the  use  of  the  phar- 
macist in  preparing  the  coarser  kind  of  powders,  but  none  have  been  made  which  could 
be  used  with  advantage  for  finely  powdering  moderate  quantities. 

Whether  contusion  or  grinding  is  resorted  to,  the  drugs  to  be  powdered  should  be 
deprived  of  the  moisture  remaining  in  them  by  exposing  them  in  a drying-room  to  a tem- 
perature of  about  50°  C.  (122°  F.).  Drugs,  however,  which  owe  their  virtues  to  volatile 
oil.  and  which  should  be  powdered  in  the  air-dry  condition  or  on  a small  scale,  are  con- 
veniently dried  over  burnt  lime.  The  different  tissues  of  plants  are  not  reduced  to  pow- 
der with  equal  facility  ; the  fibro-vascular  bundles  and  the  bast-fibres  are  usually  more 
refractory  than  parenchyma-tissue,  and  more  or  less  of  the  former  generally  remains 
behind  as  a coarse  powder.  When  the  powder  is  intended  to  be  exhausted  by  percolation 
or  otherwise,  the  coarse  particles  are  utilized  with  the  fine  powder ; but  in  case  the  latter 
be  intended  for  dispensing,  the  coarser  portion  is  removed  by  a sieve.  The  fine  powder 
which  may  be  sifted  off  from  time  to  time  during  the  process  of  powdering  should  be 
carefully  mixed  to  ensure  uniformity  in  composition.  The  fibrous  portion  of  vegetable 
drugs  is  usually  less  active  than  the  remainder,  and  if  in  such  a case  the  whole  of  it  be 
rejected,  the  resulting  powder  must  necessarily  be  stronger  than  the  crude  drug  from 
which  it  has  been  prepared ; thus,  if  the  bark  of  ipecacuanha-root  be  separated  from  the 
wood  and  powdered  by  itself,  such  powdered  ipecacuanha  will  possess  an  activity  about 
20  per  cent,  greater  than  the  root  itself. 

Fineness  Of  Powders. — The  United  States  Pharmacopoeia  designates  five  degrees 
of  fineness — namely,  very  fine,  when  passed  through  a sieve  of  eighty  or  more  meshes  to 
the  linear  inch  ; fine , when  passed  through  one  of  sixty  meshes ; moderately  fine , through 
one  of  fifty  meshes  ; moderately  coarse , through  one  of  forty  meshes  ; and  coarse , if  passed 
through  a sieve  of  twenty  meshes  to  the  linear  inch.  The  fineness  of  powders  is  often 
conveniently  described  as  being  No.  20,  etc.,  indicating  that  it  has  been  passed  through  a 
sieve  of  that  size  (see  page  605). 

Compound  Powders. — Since  nearly  all  solid  drugs  may  be  obtained  and  kept  in 
the  state  of  powder,  the  pharmacopoeias  give  special  directions  only  for  those  powders 
which  are  composed  of  two  or  more  ingredients.  In  preparing  these  it  is  generally  advis- 
able to  reduce  each  substance  separately  to  powder ; the  powders  are  then  weighed  out 
and  mixed  in  a mortar,  or  are  passed  repeatedly  through  a suitable  sieve.  Some  special 
observations  will  be  made  in  connection  with  several  official  powders. 

Mixtures  of  powdered  charcoal  or  powdered  rhubarb  with  calcined  magnesia  are  likely 
to  cake  when  made  in  a mortar  with  anything  like  pressure  of  the  pestle ; uniformity  of 
mixture  is  readily  obtained  by  stirring  gently  together  and  then  passing  repeatedly 
through  a bolting-cloth  sieve. 

Dispensing  of  Powders. — In  the  majority  of  cases  when  powders  are  prescribed 
the  ingredients  are  such  as  are  kept  on  hand  pulverized  or  in  such  a condition  that  they 
may  be  easily  powdered  by  trituration  in  a mortar.  The  latter  ingredients  are  then 
weighed  out  first,  and  rubbed  fine  before  the  powders  are  added.  As  in  the  case  of  pills, 
small  quantities  of  toxic  remedies  are  best  triturated  with  some  sugar  of  milk  before 
mixing  them  with  the  other  powders,  so  as  to  ensure  more  uniform  distribution.  Should 
soft  substances,  such  as  extracts,  or  liquids,  such  as  volatile  oils,  be  directed,  they  are 
triturated  with  the  sugar  which  usually  is  a constituent  of  magistral  powders  until 
reduced  to  powder,  when  the  other  articles  are  added  and  well  mixed.  In  most  cases, 
perhaps,  it  will  be  of  advantage  not  to  use  finely-powdered  sugar,  but  to  employ  sugar 
in  small  lumps,  which,  while  being  rubbed  to  powder  in  the  presence  of  the  other  ingre- 
dients, will  tend  to  cause  their  still  greater  subdivision  through  the  prolonged  attrition. 
There  are,  however,  occasional  exceptions  to  the  procedure  as  described,  for  in  consequence 
of  the  elevation  of  temperature  produced  by  the  trituration  chemical  processes  are  likely 
to  be  induced  which  would  interfere  with  the  stability  of  the  powder ; such  instances  are 
the  mixing  of  oxidizing  agents  like  potassium  chlorate  with  vegetable  substances,  which 
under  the  pressure  of  the  pestle  would  cause  an  explosion  ; or  the  mixing  of  salts,  which 
in  the  presence  of  a little  moisture  would  result  in  liquefaction,  as  in  triturating  together 
lead  acetate  and  zinc  sulphate,  Compound  powders  of  this  nature  ought  invariably  to 


1326 


PULVIS  AMYGDALJE  COMPOSITUS. 


be  made  by  powdering  the  constituents  separately  in  a mortar ; if  necessary,  they  should 
then  be  well  dried,  and  finally  mixed  upon  smooth  paper  with  the  aid  of  a spatula,  with- 
out exerting  any  friction.  Powders  intended  for  external  application  by  “ dusting  ” 
should  be  dispensed  in  an  impalpable  condition  if  possible,  and  for  this  purpose  are  best 
passed  through  a bolting-cloth  sieve  of  110-130  meshes  to  the  inch. 

Powders  are  rarely  prescribed  in  bulk,  except  when  intended  for  external  use ; in 
nearly  all  cases  they  are  divided  by  the  pharmacist,  each  dose  being  dispensed  in  a 

separate  paper.  Fig.  234  repre- 
sents a very  ingenious  appa- 
ratus for  the  accurate  division  of 
powders.  The  thoroughly  mixed 
powder  is  placed  in  the  metallic 
cup  B,  and  after  shaking  down 
the  metallic  divider  D is  slipped 
over  the  rod  A,  and  by  slight 
manipulation  is  made  to  divide 
the  powder  into  as  many  equal 
parts  as  wings  are  attached  to  the 
divider ; the  cap  E having  been 
placed  over  the  cup,  the  latter  is 
inverted,  and  the  material  in  each 
division  transferred  to  paper  by 
means  of  the  slide  F.  Very  accu- 
rate and  rapid  work  can  be  done 
with  the  divider.  Deliquescent  and  volatile  powders  should  be  dispensed  in  parchment, 
paraffined,  or  waxed  paper. 

Administration. — Powders  are  generally  taken  suspended  in  water  or  in  a liquid 
flavored  with  syrup  or  some  pleasant  aromatic.  The  nauseous  taste  will  not  always  thus 
be  disguised.  To  remedy  this  difficulty  it  has  been  customary  in  some  countries  to  envelop 
the  powder  in  a wafer  of  sufficient  size  and  soften  this  by  a brief  immersion  in  water,  when 
it  may  be  swallowed  without  any  inconvenience.  Cachets  de  pain,  or  wafer-capsules , an 
elegant  modification  of  this  process,  were  introduced  by  M.  Limousin  (1873).  The  sheet 
wafer  is  punched  into  circular  disks ; these  are  dampened,  and  then  pressed  between  two 
warmed  plates  of  the  desired  shape,  whereby  they  become  concave  on  one  side.  A dose 
of  the  powder  is  placed  on  this  side,  the  margin  is  very  slightly  dampened,  and  an  empty 
disk  is  placed  upon  and  fastened  to  it  by  sufficient  pressure.  Various  apparatuses  have 
been  suggested  for  sealing  the  wafers.  In  taking  such  a wafer-capsule  it  is  first  dipped 
in  water  for  a moment,  then  at  once  placed  upon  the  back  part  of  the  tongue,  and  swal- 
lowed with  a draught  of  water  or  other  suitable  liquid.  Nauseous  powders  of  small  bulk 
are  conveniently  administered  in  unsealed  gelatin-capsules,  one  of  which  is  slipped  over 
the  open  end  of  another  one  containing  the  powder  (see  page  768). 

Granular  Powders. — These  are  made  in  various  ways.  A method  of  granulating 
vegetable  and  similar  powders  was  suggested  by  Dr.  Thomas  Skinner  (1862),  and  is  exe- 
cuted by  triturating  the  powder  with  sufficient  mucilage  until  a crummy  non-adhesive 
mass  is  obtained,  which  is  dried  in  thin  layers,  bruised,  and  separated  by  sieves  into  pow- 
ders as  desired ; these  granules  may  then  be  covered  with  tolu  in  the  same  manner  as 
pills.  Various  saline  mixtures,  usually  of  an  effervescing  nature,  have  been  granulated 
by  powdering  separately  citric  or  tartaric  acid,  sugar,  sodium  bicarbonate,  magnesium  car- 
bonate, etc.,  mixing  them  together  by  sifting,  adding  sufficient  strong  alcohol  to  render  the 
mixture  slightly  damp  and  adherent,  and  rubbing  with  slight  pressure  through  a No.  (> 
or  other  suitable  sieve.  After  drying,  the  granules  of  the  different  sizes  are  separated 
by  suitable  sieves. 

Preservation. — When  perfectly  free  from  moisture,  vegetable  powders  may  be  pre- 
served in  hermetically-sealed  vessels ; but  since  they  attract  moisture  on  occasional 
exposure,  it  is  much  better  to  keep  them  in  a dry  place  enclosed  in  vessels  which  will 
admit  the  air,  but  exclude  the  light.  As  a rule,  such  powders  will  be  found  to  keep  well 
in  good  paper  boxes  unless  they  contain  volatile  oil. 

PULVIS  AMYGDALAE  COMPOSITUS,  Br. — Compound  Powder  of 

Almonds. 

Confectio  amygdala , Conserva  amygdalarum. — Confection  of  almond , E. ; Conserve 
d'amandes , Fr.  ; Mandelconserve , G. 


Fig.  234. 

A 


c 

Michael’s  Powder-divider. 


PUL  VIS  ANTIMONIALIS.—PUL  VIS  AROMATICUS. 


1327 


Preparation. — Take  of  Sweet  Almonds  8 ounces ; Refined  Sugar,  in  powder  4 
ounces ; Gum-Acacia,  in  powder,  1 ounce.  Steep  the  almonds  in  warm  water  until  their 
skins  can  be  easily  removed,  and  when  blanched  dry  them  thoroughly  with  a soft  cloth 
and  rub  them  lightly  in  a mortar  to  a smooth  consistence.  Mix  the  gum  and  the  sugar, 
and,  adding  them  to  the  pulp  gradually,  rub  the  whole  to  a coarse  powder.  Keep  it  in 
a lightly-covered  jar. — Br. 

Uses. — The  compound  powder  of  almonds  is  convenient  for  preparing  almond  mix- 
ture when  mixed  with  water  in  the  proportion  of  Gm.  75  in  Gm.  500  (2£  ounces  to  a 
pint). 

PUL  VIS  ANTIMONIALIS,  TJ.  S.,  Br.— Antimonial,  Powder. 

Pulvis  antimonii  compositus , Pulvis  Jacobi. — James  powder , E. ; Poudre  antimoniale 
de  James , Fr.  ; Jamessches  Antimonpulver,  G. 

Preparation. — Oxide  of  Antimony  33  Gm. ; Precipitated  Calcium  Phosphate  67 
Gm. ; to  make  100  Gm.  Mix  them  intimately. — U.  S. 

Take  of  oxide  of  antimony  1 ounce ; calcium  phosphate  2 ounces.  Mix  them  thor- 
oughly.— Br. 

The  two  formulas  are  practically  identical.  Antimonial  powder  is  intended  as  a sim- 
plified substitute  for  a nostrum  which  has  enjoyed  considerable  reputation  in  Great 
Britain  and  elsewhere  for  more  than  a hundred  years.  Another  formula,  formerly  recog- 
nized as  yielding  a good  substitute,  requires  the  ignition  of  a mixture  consisting  of  1 
part  of  antimonous  sulphide  and  2 parts  of  horn  shavings  by  throwing  this  in  small  quan- 
tities into  a red-hot  crucible,  powdering  the  product,  and  keeping  again  for  some  time  at 
a red  heat. 

A somewhat  similar  preparation  is  known  here  as  Tyson's  antimonial  powder,  of  which 
two  kinds  are  sometimes  employed.  One,  designated  as  No.  1,  consists  of  antimonous 
oxide  10  parts  and  calcium  phosphate  90  parts.  No.  2 is  made  by  triturating  antimonous 
oxide  10  parts  and  potassium  sulphate  45  parts  into  a fine  powder,  and  adding  45  parts 
of  calcium  phosphate. 

Action  and  Uses. — Antimonial  powder  acts  in  virtue  of  the  oxide  of  antimony  it 
contains,  the  phosphate  of  lime  serving  only  to  divide  it  minutely.  Its  action  is  essen- 
tially the  same  as  that  of  tartar  emetic,  but  slower  in  consequence  of  its  inferior  solu- 
bility. It  is  therefore  less  apt  to  act  as  an  emetic  than  as  a diaphoretic  in  febrile  states. 
It  may  be  given  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.20—1  (gr.  iij-xv). 

PULVIS  AROMATICUS,  U.  S.— Aromatic  Powder. 

Pulvis  cinnamomi  compositus.  Br.  ; Compound  powder  of  cinnamon , E.  ; Poudres  des 
epices , P.  des  aromates , Poudre  aromatique , Fr. ; Gewiirzpulver , Aromatisclies  Pulver , G. 

Preparation. — Ceylon  Cinnamon,  in  No.  60  powder,  35  Gm. ; Ginger,  in  No.  60 
powder,  35  Gm. ; Cardamom,  deprived  of  the  capsules  and  crushed,  15  Gm. ; Nutmeg,  in 
No.  20  powder,  15  Gm.  ; to  make  100  Gm.  Rub  the  cardamom  and  nutmeg  with  a 
portion  of  the  cinnamon  until  reduced  to  a fine  powder,  then  add  the  remainder  of  the 
cinnamon  and  the  ginger,  and  rub  them  together  until  they  are  thoroughly  mixed. — JJ.  S. 

To  prepare  4 av.  ozs.  of  aromatic  powder  use  613  grains  each  of  Ceylon  cinnamon  and 
ginger  and  262  grains  each  of  cardamom  and  nutmeg. 

Grated  as  finely  as  possible,  the  nutmeg  is  gradually  added,  with  constant  trituration, 
to  the  crushed  cardamom-seed  and  a portion  of  the  powdered  cinnamon,  and  afterward 
mixed  with  the  remaining  powders.  The  British  Pharmacopoeia  omits  the  nutmeg,  and 
directs  powdered  cinnamon,  cardamom,  and  ginger,  of  each  1 ounce,  to  be  thoroughly 
mixed,  sifted,  and  lightly  rubbed  in  a mortar. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparations. — Confectio  aromatica,  Electuarium  aromati- 
cum. — Aromatic  confection,  E. ; Electuaire  (Confection)  aromatique,  Fr.  ; Aromatische 
Latwerge,  Gewiirzlatwerge,  G. — Rub  aromatic  powder  4 ounces  with  clarified  honey  4 
ounces  or  a sufficient  quantity  until  a uniform  mass  of  the  proper  consistence  is  obtained. 
— U.  S.  1870. 

The  absorption  of  the  moisture  by  the  vegetable  tissue  will  render  this  confection 
gradually  crummy,  and  necessitate  the  further  addition  of  honey.  If  properly  prepared, 
it  will,  though  dry  in  appearance,  become  pliable  and  adhesive  under  the  pestle. 

Action  and  Uses. — Aromatic  powder  may  be  given  internally  for  the  relief  of 
nausea,  flatulence,  colic,  or  diarrhoea,  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.60  (gr.  x)  and  upward,  for 


1328  PUL  VIS  CATECHU  COMPOSITUS. — PUL  V.  EFFERVESCENS  COMPOSITUS. 


which  purposes  it  should  be  mixed  with  syrup.  The  now  disused  aromatic  confection 
was  similarly  employed.  The  powder  is  an  excellent  stimulant  and  anodyne  in  the  cases 
named  when  it  is  applied  enclosed  in  a flannel  bag  and  saturated  with  a hot  alcoholic  liq- 
uor. In  this  way  it  is  singularly  efficient  in  allaying  nausea  and  colic.  Laudanum  may 
be  added  to  it  in  appropriate  cases.  Care  should  be  taken  to  protect  the  linen  from  its 
stain,  which  is  indelible.  Instead  of  the  official  ingredients  of  this  aromatic  fomenta- 
tion, the  following  will  be  found  more  efficient  : equal  parts  of  powdered  cinnamon, 
ginger,  allspice,  and  cloves,  to  which  some  add  black  pepper. 

PULVIS  CATECHU  COMPOSITUS,  ^.—Compound  Powder  of 

Catechu. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Catechu,  in  powder  4 ounces ; Kino,  in  powder,  Rhatany- 
root,  in  powder,  each  2 ounces ; Cinnamon-bark,  in  powder,  Nutmeg,  in  powder,  each  1 
ounce.  Mix  them  thoroughly,  pass  the  powder  through  a fine  sieve,  and  finally  rub  it 
lightly  in  a mortar.  Keep  it  in  a stoppered  bottle. — Br. 

Uses. — This  powder  is  especially  useful  in  diarrhoea  produced  by  debility  or  by  cold 
after  fever  has  subsided.  Bose,  Gm.  0.60-4  (gr.  x-^j). 

PULVIS  CRET.E  AROMATICUS,  JBr. — Aromatic  Powder  of  Chalk. 

Confectio  aromatica , Lond. — Poudre  de  craie  aromatique,  Fr. ; Gewiirztes  Kreidepid- 
ver,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Cinnamon-bark,  in  powder,  4 ounces ; Nutmeg,  in  powder, 
Saffron,  in  powder,  each  3 ounces;  Cloves,  in  powder,  If  ounces;  Cardamom-seeds,  in 
powder,  1 ounce;  Refined  Sugar,  in  powder,  25  ounces  ; Prepared  Chalk  11  ounces.  Mix 
them  thoroughly,  pass  the  powder  through  a fine  sieve,  and  finally  rub  it  lightly  in  a 
mortar.  Keep  it  in  a stoppered  bottle. — Br. 

Uses. — Aromatic  powder  of  chalk  is  an  excellent  preparation  for  the  cure  of  acci- 
dental diarrhoea  produced  by  cold,  or  even  by  crude  ingesta,  provided  that  the  offending 
substance  has  been  discharged.  As  the  symptoms  corrected  by  chalk  and  those  relieved 
by  the  aromatic  powder  are  in  a great  measure  independent  of  each  other,  the  propor- 
tion of  these  ingredients  should  vary,  and  hence  their  association  in  fixed  proportion 
and  in  an  official  formula  is  unnecessary.  The  dose  of  the  preparation  is  Gm.  2-4 
(grs.  xxx-lx). 

PULVIS  CRETiE  AROMATICUS  CUM  OPIO,  ^.—Aromatic  Powder 

of  Chalk  and  Opium. 

Poudre  de  craie  opiacee , Fr.  ; Kreidepulver  unit  Opium,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Aromatic  Powder  of  Chalk  9f  ounces ; Opium,  in  powder, 
1 ounce.  Mix  them  thoroughly,  pass  the  powder  through  a fine  sieve,  and  finally  rub  it 
lightly  in  a mortar.  Keep  it  in  a stoppered  bottle. — Br. 

Uses. — This  preparation  is  the  same  as  the  last,  except  that  it  contains  1 grain  of 
opium  in  every  40  grains  of  the  powder.  It  is  therefore  more  efficient  in  the  same  class 
of  cases.  From  Gm.  0.60-1.30  (gr.  x-xx)  may  be  given  at  a dose. 

PULVIS  CRETH3  COMPOSITUS,  U.  --Compound  Chalk  Powder. 

Poudre  de  craie  composee,  Fr. ; Kreidepulver  mit  Gummi,  G. 

Preparation. — Prepared  Chalk  30  Gm. ; Acacia,  in  fine  powder,  20  Gm. ; Sugar,  in 
fine  powder,  50  Gm. ; to  make  100  Gm.  Mix  them  intimately. — U.  S. 

This  has  been  introduced  with  the  view  of  preparing  from  it  the  chalk  mixture  as 
wanted.  It  should  always  be  made  with  prepared  chalk  as  directed  in  the  official  formula, 
and  not  with  precipitated  calcium  carbonate,  as  has  been  done  at  times. 

Dose , from  Gm.  1.30—4  (gr.  xx-lx). 

PULVIS  EFFERVESCENS  COMPOSITUS,  U.  S.- Compound  Effer- 
vescing Powder. 

Pulvis  sodse  tartarat.se  effervescens,  Br.  Add.;  Pulveres  effervescentes  aperientes ; Pulvis 
aeropliorus  laxans,  P.  G. ; P.  aerophorus  Seydlitzensis. — Aperient  effervescing  powders , 
Seullitz  powders,  E. ; Poudre  gazifere  purgative,  Poudre  de  Sedlitz,  Fr. ; Ahfuhrendes 
Brausepulver , Seidlitzpulver,  G. 


PUL  VIS  ELATERINI  COMPOSITES. 


1329 


Preparation. — Sodium  Bicarbonate,  in  fine  powder,  31  Gm. ; Potassium  and  Sodium 
Tartrate,  in  fine  powder,  93  Gm. ; Tartaric  Acid,  in  fine  powder,  27  Gm.  Mix  the  sodium 
bicarbonate  intimately  with  the  potassium  and  sodium  tartrate,  and  divide  the  mixture 
into  12  equal  parts.  Then  divide  the  tartaric  acid  into  12  equal  parts.  Lastly,  keep 
the  parts,  severally,  of  the  mixture  and  of  the  acid  in  separate  papers  of  different 
colors. — U.  S. 

The  alkaline  powder  is  usually  put  into  a blue  paper,  each  containing  of  sodium  bicar- 
bonate 2.58  Gm.  (If.  S. ; Br.  Add.)  (2.5  Gm.  P.  G. ; 2.0  Gm.  F.  Cod.),  and  of  potassium 
and  sodium  tartrate  7.75  Gm.  ( U.  S. ; Br.  Add.)  (7.5  Gm.  P.  G. ; 6 Gm.  F.  Cod.).  The 
tartaric  acid  is  wrapped  in  white  paper,  and  weighs  2.25  Gm.  ( U.  S.)  (2.46  Gm.  Br.  Add. ; 
2.0  Gm.  F.  Cod.,  P.  G.).  On  mixing  the  solutions  of  the  contents  of  the  two  papers, 
Mr.  Wm.  Gilmour  (1881)  observed  the  formation  of  potassium  bitartrate  even  in  the 
presence  of  insufficient  tartaric  acid  for  producing  neutral  sodium  tartrate ; this  effect  is 
due  to  the  liberated  carbonic  acid. 

The  mixture  of  Rochelle  salt  and  sodium  bicarbonate  is  known  commercially  as  Seid- 
litz  mixture : owing  to  its  variable  composition,  as  sold  in  the  market,  it  is  best  prepared 
by  the  pharmacist  himself,  by  mixing  1 part  of  sodium  bicarbonate  with  3 parts  of 
Rochelle  salt.  The  small  wooden  measures  intended  for  dividing  the  saline  mixture  and 
acid  are,  as  a rule,  unreliable,  and  moreover  the  quantity  of  powder  that  can  be  com- 
pressed into  these  measures  varies  considerably  with  the  condition  of  the  atmosphere ; 
hence  the  requisite  quantities  should  be  weighed  for  each  paper,  being  160  grains  of 
Seidlitz  mixture  and  35  grains  of  tartaric  acid. 

Allied  Preparations. — Pulveres  effervescentes,  U.  S.  1870 ; Pulvis  aerophorus  anglicus. 
P.  G. — Effervescing  powders,  Soda  powders,  E. ; Poudre  gazeuse,  P.  gazogene,  P.  aerophore,  P. 
de  Seitz,  Fr, ; Englisches  Brausepulver,  G. — Take  of  sodium  bicarbonate,  in  fine  powder  360 
grains  ; tartaric  acid,  in  fine  powder,  300  grains.  Divide  each  of  the  powders  into  12  equal  parts, 
and  keep  the  parts,  severally,  of  the  bicarbonate  and  of  the  acid  in  separate  papers  of  different 
colors. 

Pulvis  aerophorus,  P.  G .,  is  composed  of  10  parts  of  sodium  bicarbonate,  9 parts  of  tartaric 
acid,  and  19  parts  of  white  sugar.  Each  substance  is  finely  powdered  and  well  dried  before  the 
three  are  mixed,  when  the  powder  may  be  kept  unaltered  in  well-closed  vessels.  But  if  these 
are  opened,  and  from  the  deposition  of  moisture  decomposition  begins  to  take  place,  the  change 
proceeds  more  rapidly  in  a closed  than  in  an  open  vessel  should  the  latter  be  kept  in  a dry  and 
airy  place.  The  powder  keeps  much  better  if  granulated  as  described  above.  Either  form  of 
powder  may  serve  as  a vehicle  for  the  convenient  and  pleasant  administration  of  other  medicines, 
such  as  salts  of  iron,  quinine,  etc.,  which  should  not  be  mixed  with  the  sodium  bicarbonate  alone. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  compound  effervescing  powder  is  convenient  for  admin- 
istering potassium  and  sodium  tartrate  in  a state  of  effervescence.  The  acid  powder 
should  be  dissolved  in  1 or  2 fluidounces,  and  the  saline  in  about  6 fluidounces,  of  water ; 
the  liquids  should  then  be  gradually  mixed  and  drunk  while  effervescing.  Seidlitz  pow- 
ders are  very  commonly  employed  to  relieve  moderate  constipation  and  the  feverishness 
that  attends  the  first  stage  of  many  slight  disorders,  especially  those  produced  by  “ taking 
cold”  or  by  an  imprudent  and  excessive  use  of  food  and  alcohol.!  Like  other  saline  laxa- 
tives, this  one  is  more  appropriate  in  warm  than  in  cold  weather.  If  a very  active 
operation  is  desired,  one  and  a half  or  even  two  pairs  of  powders  may  be  given  at  once, 
or,  on  the  other  hand,  they  may  be  administered  in  divided  portions  as  a febrifuge 
medicine. 

The  carbonic  acid  disengaged  during  the  administration  of  soda  powders  is  a direct 
stimulant  to  the  stomach  and  nervous  system,  while  it  creates  an  agreeable  sense  of  cool- 
ness in  the  abdomen.  The  sodium  tartrate  formed  in  the  process  is  diuretic,  antacid, 
and  slightly  laxative,  and  probably  during  fever  is  diaphoretic  also.  Soda  powders  are 
much  used  to  relieve  the  feverish  effects  of  imprudent  eating  and  to  remove  constipation. 
Each  powder  should  be  dissolved  in  about  120  Gm.  (f^iv)  of  water,  flavored  with  syrup 
if  preferred,  and  the  solutions,  being  mixed,  should  be  taken  while  effervescing.  In  cer- 
tain cases  of  intestinal  obstruction  due  to  faecal  accumulation  enemata  have  been  used 
consisting  of  the  effervescing  powders,  dissolved  and  administered  separately  in  a sufficient 
quantity  of  water  {Med.  News , xlviii.  293). 

PULVIS  ELATERINI  COMPOSITUS,  Br.— Compound  Powder  of 

Elaterin. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Elaterin  5 grains ; Sugar  of  Milk  195  grains.  Rub  them 
together  in  a mortar  until  they  are  reduced  to  fine  powder  and  intimately  mixed. — Br. 

84 


1330  PUL  VIS  GLYCYRRHIZA  COMPOSITUS.—PULV.  IPECACUANHA  ET  OPII. 


Action  and  Uses. — This  preparation  is  a convenient  one  for  the  administration  of 
elaterin.  Hose,  from  Gm.  0.03-0.30  (gr.  ss-v). 

PULVIS  GLYCYRRHIZA  COMPOSITUS,  U.  8.,  -Br.— Compound 
Powder  of  Glycyrrhiza  (Liquorice). 

Pulvis  liquiritise  compositus,  P.  G. ; P.  pectoralis  Kurellse. — Poudre  pectorale,  Poudre  de 
reglisse  composee,  Fr. ; Brustpulver,  G. 

Preparation. — Senna,  in  No.  80  powder,  180  Gm. ; Glycyrrhiza,  in  No.  80  powder, 
236  Gm. ; Washed  Sulphur  80  Gin. ; Oil  of  Fennel  4 Gm. ; Sugar,  in  fine  powder,  500 
Gm. ; to  make  1000  Gm.  Rub  them  together  until  they  are  thoroughly  mixed. — U.  S. 

To  prepare  1 pound  of  compound  liquorice  powder  use  2 av.  ozs.  and  385  grains  of 
powdered  senna,  3 av.  ozs.  and  340  grains  of  powdered  glycyrrhiza,  1 av.  oz.  and  123 
grains  of  washed  sulphur,  30  minims  of  oil  of  fennel,  and  8 av.  ozs.  of  sugar. 

Powdered  senna  2 parts ; powdered  liquorice-root  2 parts ; powdered  fennel  1 part ; 
washed  sulphur  1 part ; powdered  sugar  6 parts. — P.  G.,  Br. 

The  first  formula  has  been  adapted  from  that  of  the  German  Pharmacopoeia,  and  is 
practically  identical  with  it  and  with  that  of  the  British  Pharmacopoeia.  The  powder  is 
of  a greenish-yellow  color.  The  British  Pharmacopoeia  of  1867  omitted  the  fennel  and 
sulphur. 

The  present  official  formula  differs  from  that  of  1880  in  the  use  of  oil  of  fennel  in 
place  of  the  fruit,  and  the  increase  of  powdered  liquorice-root  accordingly ; the  quantity 
of  oil  is  based  on  the  assumption  that  prime  fennel  will  yield  5 per  cent,  of  volatile  oil. 
We  regard  the  change  as  a very  desirable  one,  since  the  whole  powder  can  now  readily 
be  passed  through  a No.  80  sieve,  and  will  not  assume  a disagreeable  odor  by  age,  which 
sometimes  occurs  when  it  is  made  with  powdered  fennel. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  preparation  is  a mild  but  efficient  aperient  in  the  dose  of 
Gm.  2-4  (gr.  xxx-lx).  A teaspoonful  in  a glass  of  water  at  bedtime  for  the  relief  of 
habitual  constipation. 

PULVIS  IPECACUANHA  ET  OPH,  XT.  S.— Powder  of  Ipecac  and 

Opium. 

Pulvis  ipecacuanhse  compositus , Br. ; Pulvis  ipecacuanhse  opiatus , P.  G. — Compound 
powder  of  ipecacuanhse , Dover  s powder , E. ; Poudre  de  Dower , Fr. ; Dower  sclies  j Cul- 
ver, G. 

Preparation. — Ipecac,  in  No.  60  powder,  10  Gm. ; Powdered  Opium  10  Gm. ; Sugar 
of  Milk,  in  No.  30  powder,  80  Gm. ; to  make  100  Gm.  Rub  them  together  into  a very 
fine  powder. — U.  S. 

To  prepare  4 av.  ozs.  of  Dover’s  powder  use  175  grains  each  of  powdered  ipecac  and 
powdered  opium,  and  1400  grains  of  sugar  of  milk. 

In  this  formula  the  milk-sugar  is  directed  to  be  used  in  a rather  coarse  powder ; the 
fragments  of  the  crystals,  being  very  hard,  serve  to  grind  the  vegetable  powders  still 
finer  during  the  necessarily  prolonged  trituration.  The  German  Pharmacopoeia  orders 
the  same  ingredients  in  the  same  proportions  as  given  above,  but  directs  all  three  to  be 
separately  very  finely  powdered,  and  then  to  be  intimately  mixed.  Both  these  pharma- 
copoeias have,  without  any  urgent  reason,  substituted  milk-sugar  in  the  place  of  potassium 
sulphate,  which  was  formerly  employed  in  the  same  proportion,  and  is  still  ordered  by  the 
British  Pharmacopoeia.  Both  powders  are  of  a pale-brown  color  and  have  the  odor  of 
opium,  somewhat  modified  by  that  of  ipecac  ; they  differ  but  slightly  in  taste,  that  of  the 
Br.  P.  being  somewhat  saline  in  addition  to  the  bitter  and  nauseous  taste  of  the  other 
ingredients,  which  predominates  in  the  powder  prepared  by  the  above  formula.  The 
Dover’s  powder  of  the  French  Codex  is  nearly  the  same  as  that  originally  used  by  Dr. 
Dover,  the  chief  difference  being  the  substitution  of  dry  extract  of  opium  for  opium ; it 
is  composed  of  potassium  sulphate  and  nitrate,  each  40  parts,  and  dry  extract  of  opium, 
ipecacuanha,  and  liquorice-root,  each  10  parts,  the  whole  to  be  made  into  a homogeneous 
powder. 

Action  and  Uses. — Dover’s  powder  contains  in  every  10  grains  1 grain  each  of 
opium  and  ipecacuanha  and  8 grains  of  sugar  of  milk.  Its  physiological  effects  are  sleep 
and  diaphoresis.  The  latter  is  perhaps  favored  by  the  ipecacuanha,  but  is  essentially 
produced  by  the  opium.  If  Dover’s  powder  has  the  advantage  of  readily  causing  dia 
phoresis,  it  has  the  disadvantages  of  sometimes  producing  nausea  and  leaving  the  mouth 
more  pasty  than  opium  does  alone.  A peculiar  advantage  of  this  combination  is  that  it 


PULVIS  JALAPJE  COMPOSITUS. — PUL  VIS  MORPHINE  COMPOSITUS.  1331 


ensures  the  slow  solution  and  absorption  of  its  active  ingredients  — an  advantage  lost  in 
the  so-called  liquid  Dover’s  powder. 

This  preparation  is  of  peculiar  value  in  the  forming  stages  of  muscular  rheumatism , for 
if  it  occasions  sweating  it  often  terminates  the  attack.  The  use  of  hot  drinks  about  an 
hour  after  the  powder  is  administered  will  greatly  promote  its  operation.  A similar 
statement  may  be  made  of  its-  use  at  the  commencement  of  acute  inflammations , such 
as  coryza,  sore  throat,  laryngitis,  bronchitis,  pleurisy,  pneumonia,  etc.  It  is  of  use  in 
haemorrhage  from  internal  organs,  and  especially  from  the  uterus ; in  diarrhoea  from 
transient  causes  or  from  intestinal  disease,  as  in  typhoid  fever,  tuberculosis,  dysentery, 
etc. ; in  profuse  sweats  from  phthisis  or  other  debilitating  causes.  It  has  been  recom- 
mended in  diabetes , Bright's  disease , and  calculous  affections , but  in  them  it  is  less  appro- 
priate than  opium  alone. 

The  ordinary  dose  of  Dover’s  powder  is  Gm.  0.60  (gr.  x),  but  in  many  cases  doses  only 
half  as  large,  and  repeated  at  longer  or  shorter  intervals,  are  preferable.  When  full  dia- 
phoresis is  desired  the  dose  may  be  Grm.  1-1.30  (gr.  xv-xx),  and  its  operation  may  be 
promoted  by  hot  drinks,  thick  bed-clothes,  etc. 

PULVIS  JALAPS  COMPOSITUS,  JJ.  S.9  Br.- Compound  Powder 

of  Jalap. 

Pulvis  purgans,  Pulvis  jalapse  tartaratus , Pulvis  catharticus. — Poudre  de  jalap  composee , 
Fr. ; Jalapenpulver  mit  Weinstein , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Jalap,  in  No.  60  powder,  35  Gm. ; Potassium  Bitartrate,  in 
fine  powder,  65  Gm. ; to  make  100  Gm.  Bub  them  together  until  they  are  thoroughly 
mixed. — U.  S. 

Take  of  jalap,  in  powder,  5 ounces ; acid  potassium  tartrate,  9 ounces ; ginger,  in  pow- 
der, 1 ounce.  Mix  them  thoroughly,  pass  the  powder  through  a fine  sieve,  and  finally 
rub  it  lightly  in  a mortar. — Br. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  is  an  efficient  hydragogue  cathartic,  particularly  appli- 
cable to  cases  of  hepatic  and  splenic  obstruction  with  abdominal  dropsy , and  to  other 
forms  of  dropsy  in  which  the  amount  of  the  effusion  constitutes  an  immediate  source  of 
danger.  In  the  latter  case  the  proportion  of  the  bitartrate  should  be  increased  from  60 
to  120  grains,  and  of  the  jalap  to  10  or  15  grains.  The  dose  of  the  compound  powder  of 
jalap  is  Gm.  0.60-2  (gr.  x-xxx). 

PULVIS  KINO  COMPOSITUS,  Br. — Compound  Powder  of  Kino. 

Pulvis  Jcino  cum  opio. — Poudre  de  kino  opiacee , Fr. ; Kinopulver  mit  Opium , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Kino,  in  powder,  3f  ounces ; Opium,  in  powder,  \ ounce ; 
Cinnamon-bark,  in  powder,  1 ounce.  Mix  them  thoroughly,  pass  the  powder  through  a 
fine  sieve,  and  finally  rub  it  lightly  in  a mortar.  Keep  in  a stoppered  bottle. — Br. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  preparation  is  one  of  the  many  in  which  opiates  and 
astringents  are  associated,  and  which  are  chiefly  used  in  cases  of  excessive  gastric  or 
intestinal  secretion , including  diarrhoea;  it  is  also  employed  in  the  various  dyspeptic 
derangements  for  which  kino  itself  is  used,  and  for  lessening  the  secretion  of  urine  in 
diabetes  and  of  perspiration  in  various  forms  of  hectic  fever.  The  dose  is  Gm.  0.30-1.30 
(gr.  v-xx). 

PULVIS  MORPHINE  COMPOSITUS,  V.  S.— Compound  Powder  of 

Morphine. 

Pulvis  camphor oe  compositus  Tally. — Tally's  powder , E.  ; Poudre  de  Tally , Fr. ; Tally  sches 
Pulver , G. 

Preparation. — Morphine  Sulphate,  1 Gm. ; Camphor,  19  Gm. ; Glycyrrhiza,  in  No. 
60  powder,  20  Gm. ; Precipitated  Calcium  Carbonate,  20  Gm. ; Alcohol  a sufficient  quan- 
tity. Rub  the  camphor  with  a little  alcohol,  and  afterward  with  the  glycyrrhiza  and  pre- 
cipitated calcium  carbonate,  until  a uniform  powder  is  produced.  Then  rub  the  morphine 
sulphate  with  this  powder,  gradually  added,  until  the  whole  is  thoroughly  mixed. — U.  S. 

This  formula  originated  with  Dr.  William  Tully  of  New  Haven,  Conn.  The  powder 
should  be  very  carefully  prepared,  so  that  the  morphine  salt  may  be  uniformly  incor- 
porated with  the  other  ingredients.  Owing  to  the  volatilization  of  camphor,  it  is  best  to 
prepare  the  powder  in  a small  quantity  only,  and  to  preserve  it  in  a well-stoppered  bottle 
kept  in  a cool  place.  Each  grain  of  the  mixed  powders  contains  ^ grain  of  morphine 


1332  PULVIS  OPII  COMPOSITUS.— PULVIS  SCAM  MON II  COMPOSITUS. 


sulphate,  and  practically  -J-  grain  of  camphor.  We  think  the  formula  would  look  better 
if  20  Gm.  of  camphor  and  19  Gm.  of  glycyrrhiza  were  ordered,  instead  of  19  and  20  as  at 
present. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  evaporation  of  the  camphor  from  this  powder  causes  it  to 
deteriorate  constantly,  and  therefore  to  cease  to  be  what  it  originally  was.  Doubtless,  the 
combination  of  camphor  and  opium,  as  it  is  constantly  used  in  nervous  affections,  with 
different  proportions  of  the  two  ingredients,  is  a most  valuable  one,  and  is  recognized  as 
such  in  the  ancient  liquid  preparation  paregoric  elixir.  The  addition  to  ordinary  Dover’s 
powder  of  whatever  dose  of  camphor  may  be  required  for  individual  cases  appears  to  us 
preferable  to  so  unstable  a preparation  as  this.  The  dose  of  it  may  be  stated  at  Gm. 
0.30-0.60  (gr.  v-x). 

PULVIS  OPII  COMPOSITUS,  Br. — Compound  Powder  of  Opium. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Opium,  in  powder,  1|  ounces;  Black  Pepper,  in  powder,  2 
ounces ; Ginger,  in  powder,  5 ounces ; Caraway-fruit,  in  powder,  6 ounces ; Tragacanth, 
in  powder,  J ounce.  Mix  them  thoroughly,  pass  the  powder  through  a fine  sieve,  and 
finally  rub  it  lightly  in  a mortar.  Keep  in  a stoppered  bottle. — Br. 

This  powder  contains  10  per  cent,  of  powdered  opium. 

Uses. — This  powder  contains  the  ingredients,  in  a dry  state,  of  the  confection  of 
opium,  and  may  be  used  for  the  same  purposes.  Dose , Gm.  0.10—0.30  (gr.  ij-v). 

PULVIS  RHEI  COMPOSITUS,  U.  S.,  Br.—  Compound  Powder  of 

Rhubarb. 

Pulvis  magnesise  cum  rheo , P.  G.  ; P.  infantum , s.  P.  antacidus. — Magnesia  and  rhu- 
barb, Gregory  s powder,  E. ; Poudre  de  rhubarbe  composee , Pr. ; Kinderpulver , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Rhubarb,  in  No.  60  powder,  25  Gm. ; Magnesia,  65  Gm.; 
Ginger,  in  No.  60  powder,  10  Gm. ; to  make  100  Gm.  Rub  them  together  until  they 
are  thoroughly  mixed.—  JJ.  S. 

To  prepare  4 av.  ozs.  of  compound  rhubarb  powder  use  1 av.  oz.  of  powdered  rhubarb, 
2 av.  ozs.  and  263  grains  of  calcined  magnesia,  and  175  grains  of  powdered  ginger. 

The  official  magnesia  being  the  light  or  bulky  variety,  it  will  be  found  very  difficult  to 
mix  the  powders  uniformly  if  they  are  put  into  the  mortar  promiscuously : the  better 
plan  is  to  mix  the  rhubarb  and  ginger,  and  incorporate  the  magnesia  in  small  quantities, 
gradually  added,  finally  passing  the  whole  mixture  through  a bolting-cloth  sieve. 

The  British  Pharmacopoeia  has  adopted  Dr.  Gregory’s  formula : Powdered  rhubarb  2 
oz.,  light  magnesia  6 oz.,  powdered  ginger  1 oz.  ; the  mixed  powder  is  to  be  passed  through 
a fine  sieve.  Mr.  Gilmour  (1881)  observed  that  in  order  to  render  this  powder  readily 
miscible  with  water  the  rhubarb  and  ginger  should  first  be  triturated  with  about  5 per 
cent,  of  magnesium  carbonate,  and  the  calcined  magnesia  afterward  added. 

The  formula  of  the  German  Pharmacopoeia  is  as  follows : magnesium  carbonate,  60 
parts  ; oil-sugar  of  fennel  (1  drop  of  oil  of  fennel  to  2 Gm.  of  sugar)  40  parts  ; powdered 
rhubarb  15  parts.  Mix. 

These  powders,  when  freshly  prepared,  have  a yellowish  color,  but  on  keeping  gradu- 
ally assume  a reddish  tint  from  the  absorption  of  moisture  and  the  reaction  of  the  mag- 
nesia with  the  constituents  of  rhubarb ; in  the  presence  of  water  or  of  alcohol  they 
become  deep-red. 

Action  and  Uses. — There  does  not  appear  to  be  any  reason  for  the  existence  of 
this  compound  powder,  the  ingredients  of  which  may  very  well  be  mixed  extempora- 
neously in  proportions  adapted  to  the  peculiarities  of  each  case.  It  is  a good  laxative  in 
cases  of  acid  dyspepsia  with  constipation,  and  of  diarrhoea  with  acid  stools,  especially  as  it 
is  apt  to  occur  in  children.  The  dose  for  an  adult  is  Gm.  1.30-4  (gr.  xx-lx),  and  for  a 
child  Gm.  0.30-0.60  (gr.  v-x). 

PULVIS  SCAMMONII  COMPOSITUS,  ^.—Compound  Powder  of 

SCAMMONY. 

Preparation. — Scammony  Resin,  in  powder,  4 ounces ; Jalap,  in  powder,  3 ounces ; 
Ginger,  in  powder,  1 ounce.  Mix  them  thoroughly,  pass  the  powder  through  a fine  sieve, 
and  finally  rub  it  lightly  in  a mortar. — Br. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  close  resemblance  of  scammony  to  jalap  in  its  mode  of 
action  in  all  useful  respects,  and  its  harsh  and  irritating  operation  in  others,  render  the 


PULVIS  TRAGACANTHjE  composites.— pyrethr um. 


1333 


conjunction  of  the  two  purgatives  apparently  superfluous.  It  is  possible,  however,  that 
cases  may  occur  in  which  the  ruder  action  of  scammony  upon  the  bowels  may  be  useful 
as  a derivant  from  the  brain.  The  dose  of  the  powder  is  Gm.  0.60-1.20  (gr.  x-xx). 


PULVIS  TRAGACANTHgE  COMPOSITUS,  Br.— Compound  Powder 

of  Tragacanth. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Tragacanth,  in  powder,  Gum-Arabic,  in  powder,  Starch,  in 
powder,  each  1 ounce ; Refined  Sugar,  in  powder,  3 ounces.  Rub  them  well  together. — 
Br.  It  is  a white  powder,  having  a sweet  mucilaginous  taste. 

Pul  vis  gummosus,  P.  G .,  is  used  for  similar  purposes,  but  has  the  following  composi- 
tion : Powdered  gum-acacia  15  parts ; powdered  liquorice-root  10  parts ; powdered  sugar 
5 parts.  It  is  a yellowish-white  powder,  having  the  odor  of  liquorice-root,  and  a sweet, 
mucilaginous  taste. 

Uses. — It  forms  a dense  mucilage  used  to  suspend  heavy  powders,  such  as  bismuth 
subnitrate,  and  is  an  excellent  excipient  powder  in  certain  pill  masses,  notably  those  of 
freshly-formed  ferrous  carbonate. 


Fig.  235. 


PYRETHRUM,  U.  S.— Pellitory. 

Pyrethri  radix,  Br.,  P,  A.  ; Radix  pyrethri  romani. — Pellitory -root,  Pellitory  of  Spain, 
E. ; Pyrethre  officinal  (Cod.),  Salivaire , Fr.  ; Romische  Bertramwurzel,  G. ; Peritre,  Sp. 

The  root  of  Anacyclus  (Anthemis,  Linne ; Matricaria,  Baillon)  Py rethrum,  De  Candolle . 
Woodville,  t.  20;  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  151. 

Nat.  Ord. — Compositae,  Anthemideae. 

Origin. — Pellitory  is  a procumbent  or  ascending  perennial  which  is  indigenous  to 
North-western  Africa  and  is  occasionally  cultivated  in  gardens.  It  resembles  the  chamomile, 
but  has  broadly  oval,  three-toothed,  white  ray-florets  tinged  with  red  beneath,  and  com- 
pressed obovate  akenes,  which  have  a short  denticulate  pappus  ; those  of  the  outer  rows 
have  also  a narrow  wing.  The  root  is  shipped  from  Algiers  and  Tunis  to  Italy  and  France, 
and  large  quantities  are  sent  to  India  by  way  of  Egypt. 

Description. — Pellitory-root  is  nearly  simple,  5-10  Cm.  (2-4  inches)  long,  6-15 
Mm.  (|-|-  inch)  thick,  somewhat  fusiform,  and  occa- 
sionally beset  with  a tuft  of  the  hairy  base  of  stem  and 
leaves,  annulate  above,  deeply  wrinkled  below,  of  a gray- 
ish or  blackish-brown  color  externally  and  brownish- 
white  internally.  It  breaks  with  a short  fracture,  and 
presents  a bark  about  one-eighth  the  thickness  of  the 
root,  and  a radiated  meditullium  containing  slender 
ligneous  and  medullary  rays.  The  bark  contains  about 
two,  and  the  medullary  rays  four  or  six,  irregular  circles 
of  shining  resin-cells.  The  root  is  inodorous,  and  has 
an  aromatic  and  acrid  taste,  exciting  a pricking  sensation 
in  the  lips  and  tongue  and  a glowing  heat. 

Constituents.  — Pellitory-root  was  analyzed  by 
John,  Gautier  (1823),  Parisel  (1832),  and  Koene  (1835)  ; ..  . 

its  acridity  appears  to  reside  in  a brown  resin  and  in  two  diameters,  of  the  roots  of —a,  Anacyclus 
fixed  oils,  one  having  a dark-brown,  the  other  a yellow,  mm^ifayne.0'  b' Anacyclus officina" 
color.  Buchheim  (1876)  asserts  that  the  active  principle 

is  an  alkaloid,  pyrethrine , which  under  the  influence  of  alcoholic  solution  of  potassa  yields 
piperidine  and  pyrethric  acid,  resembling  piperic  acid.  Pellitory  yields  about  5 per  cent, 
of  washed  ether-extract,  which  has  been  called  pyrethrin  by  C.  J.  G.  Thompson  (1886), 
and,  like  Parisel’s  pyrethrin,  consists  of  resin  and  fat.  The  root  contains  considerable 
inulin,  traces  of  tannin  and  volatile  oil,  mucilaginous  matter,  and  other  common  constit- 
uents. 


Allied  Plants.— Anacyclus  officinarum,  Hayne.— German  pellitory,  E.;  Pyrethre  allemande, 
xr. ; Bertramwurzel,  G. — Phis  plant  (see  Bentley  and  Trimen,  152)  is  not  known  in  the  wild 
state,  but  has  been  long  cultivated  near  Magdeburg  and  in  Saxony  ; some  botanists  regard  it  as 
an  annual  form  of  the  above  species,  which  it  resembles  in  foliage  and  flowers,  but  the  latter  have 
a very  convex  disk.  Ihe  root  is  only  about  3 Mm.  (|-  inch)  thick,  has  few  rootlets,  is  externally 
brown-gray  and  internally  dingy  white.  The  bark  is  rather  thick,  and  contains  one  irregular 
circle  of  rather  large  resin-cells ; the  meditullium  consists  of  slender  brownish  wood-wedges  and 
whitish  medullary  rays,  which  are  free  from  resin-cells.  The  root  is  inodorous  and  agrees  in  taste 
with  the  preceding. 


1334 


PYRETITR  TIM. 


Chrysanthemum  (Pyrethrum,  Bieberstein ) rosei  m and  C.  carneum,  Weber. — Persian  Pellitory, 
Persian  insect-flowers,  E. ; Pyrethrc  du  Caucase  (Codex),  Camomille  de  Perse,  Fr. ; Persische 
Bcrtramblumen,  G. — Both  plants  are  hardy  perennials,  resembling  chamomile  in  appearance, 
and  indigenous  to  Western  Asia  from  Persia  to  the  Caucasus  Mountains.  The  flowers  are  the 
parts  employed,  and  are  used  in  the  form  of  powder  for  killing  insects.  The  flower-heads  are 
about  38  Mm.  (1 J inches)  broad,  and  have  an  imbricate  involucre,  with  a brown  scarious  margin, 
a convex  naked  and  solid  receptacle,  about  twenty-four  ray-florets,  and  a large  number  of  yellow 
disk-florets.  The  ray-florets  are  ligulate,  nerved,  and  three-toothed,  the  disk-florets  tubular  and 
five-toothed.  The  akenes  are  dark-brown,  angular,  not  winged,  and  crowned  with  a short  mem- 
branous pappus.  The  species  roseum  has  rose-colored  ray-florets  and  anthers  included  in  the  tube 
of  the  corolla,  while  C.  carneum  has  purplish  ray-florets,  and  anthers  projecting  with  their  append- 
ages from  the  floret-tube.  The  flowers  have  a peculiar  not  very  strong  odor  and  an  acrid  taste. 
The  flowers  of  Chr.  cinerariaefolium,  Visiani , of  Dalmatia,  possess  similar  properties,  and  if  col- 
lected shortly  after  expansion  are  considered  the  most  effectual.  Iianaman  and  Koch  (1863) 
ascribed  the  insecticide  effects  of  the  flowers  to  the  volatile  oil.  Bother  (1876)  announced  the 
isolation  from  insect-flowers  of  an  oleoresinous  acid,  persicein , another  acid  resinous  substance, 
persiretin , and  the  active  principle,  a readily  soluble  glucoside,  persicin,  yielding  persiretin  when 
boiled  with  acids.  Semenoff  (1876)  obtained  a volatile  substance,  probably  an  alkaloid,  and 
Jousset  de  Bellesme  (1876)  regarded  a crystalline  alkaloid  as  the  active  principle.  Textor  (1881) 
found  neither  volatile  oil  nor  alkaloid ; he  attributed  the  poisonous  action  to  a soft  resin,  which 
is  readily  extracted  by  benzene,  is  soluble  in  alcohol  and  in  potassa,  is  reprecipitated  by  an  acid, 
and  mixes  readily  with  strong  sulphuric  acid,  but  is  reprecipitated  by  a little  water.  Dal  Sie 
(1879)  believed  a volatile  crystallizable  acid  to  be  the  active  principle  of  Dalmatian  insect-powder ; 
but  Hirschsohn  proved  (1890)  that  the  effectiveness  of  the  powder  is  not  destroyed  by  age  or  by 
heat  or  by  rendering  it  alkaline  with  ammonia  ; also  that  the  petroleum-ether  extract  yields  to 
alcohol  a very  acrid  soft  resin.  We  have  observed  the  tincture  of  the  flowers  sometimes  to  pro- 
duce a vesicular  eruption. 

Insect-powder  being  often  adulterated  with  various  substances,  its  quality,  according  to  Kal- 
brunner  (1874),  is  best  ascertained  by  sprinkling  4 grains  of  it  upon  a fly  contained  in  a vial, 
which  should  be  stupefied  in  1 minute  and  killed  in  2 or  3 minutes.  Experiments  demonstrating 
the  fatal  action  of  Persian  pellitory  upon  insects  have  been  published  by  Carpenter  {Am.  Jour. 
Phar.,  May,  1879,  p.  246).  For  microscopical  characteristics  of  the  flowers  see  papers  by  G.  M. 
Beringer  {Am.  Jour.  Phar.,  1889,  p.  1)  and  Jos.  Schrenk  {Am.  Drugg .,  1889,  March). 

Chrysanthemum  Leucanthemum,  Linn£,  or  ox-eye  daisy , which  is  extensively  naturalized  in 
North  America,  is  of  no  value  as  an  insecticide. 

Spilanthes  oleracea , Jacquin  (tribe  Helianthoideas). — Herba  Spilanthis,  P.A.;  Paracress, 
E. ; Cresson  de  Para,  F.  Cod. ; Parakresse,  G. — This  annual  is  indigenous  to  South  America, 
naturalized  in  India,  and  sometimes  cultivated  in  gardens.  The  leaves  and  flower-heads  are  used. 
The  former  are  opposite,  pale-green  or  purplish,  about  6.5  Cm.  (2J  inches)  long,  ovate,  three-nerved, 
rather  obtuse,  repand-crenate  and  rough  on  the  margin.  The  flower-heads  are  about  12  Mm.  (£ 
inch)  broad,  hemispherical,  and  have  yellow,  or  in  the  centre  brownish-red,  tubular  florets ; the 
odor  is  rather  unpleasant,  the  taste  sharp  and  biting.  Buchner  (1831)  attributed  the  acrid  taste 
to  a soft  resin.  Wolf  (1859)  isolated  spilanthin , which  crystallizes  in  needles,  is  insoluble  in 
water,  soluble  in  alcohol  and  ether,  and  is  not  precipitated  by  lead  acetate. 

Spilanthes  Acmella,  Linn6 , s.  Acmella  mauritiana,  Richard , an  annual  East  Indian  herb  with 
ovate,  serrate,  pellucid-punctate  leaves,  and  small  obconical  yellow  flower-heads,  has  a bitter 
balsamic  afterward  biting  taste,  and  is  used  like  the  preceding  species. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparations. — Pilule  odontalgic^.  Toothache  pills. — 
Powdered  pellitory,  belladonna-root,  and  opium,  each  5 Gm. ; yellow  wax  7 Gni. ; 
expressed  oil  of  almond  2 Gm. ; oil  of  cajuput  and  oil  of  cloves,  each  15  drops.  Make 
500  pills  and  dust  them  with  powdered  cloves. — P.  G.,  1872. 

Alcoolature  de  Cresson  de  Para,  Tincture  of  Spilanthes. — Fresh  flower-heads  of 
Paracress  and  alcohol,  equal  parts.  Macerate  for  ten  days,  express,  and  filter. — F.  Cod. 

Tinctura  Spilanthis  composita,  Compound  tincture  of  Spilanthes,  E. ; Parakressen- 
tinctur,  G.  ; also  known  as  Paraguay  roux. — Spilanthes  herb  25  Gm. ; pellitory  20  Gm. ; 
alcohol  120  Gm.  Digest  for  three  days,  express,  and  filter. 

Medical  Action  and  Uses. — Pellitory  is  a powerful  irritant,  and  acts  as  a rube- 
facient upon  the  skin.  When  chewed  it  has  an  acrid  taste,  and  excites  a burning  and 
pricking  sensation  in  the  mouth  and  fauces  and  a copious  flow  of  saliva.  A child  three 
and  a half  years  old  one  evening  swallowed  about  50  minims  of  tincture  of  pyrethrum. 
During  the  night  no  symptoms  occurred  except  soreness  of  the  tongue,  restlessness,  and 
profuse  perspiration.  At  five  o’clock  the  next  morning  diarrhoea  commenced  with  pain, 
and  at  eleven  the  child  lay  in  a semi-stupor,  the  pupils  natural,  the  pulse  120  and  feeble; 
twitching  of  the  muscles  of  the  limbs,  the  tongue  swollen  and  of  a drab  color;  no 
vomiting,  but  profuse  diarrhoea  with  tenesmus,  and  involuntary  evacuations  of  bloody 
mucus.  At  12.30  violent  convulsions,  followed  by  profound  stupor ; at  three  o’clock  and 
later  tetanoid  spasms  and  mental  excitement,  with  incessant  talking.  The  next  morning 
the  intestinal  disorder  and  the  spasms  had  subsided,  but  the  pulse  continued  frequent  for 
2 days.  Laudanum,  wine,  and  coffee  were  administered,  and  ice  was  applied  to  the  fore- 


PYROGALLOL. 


1335 


head  and  spine  (Browne,  Practitioner , xvii.  86).  Its  sialagogue  properties  have  caused 
it  to  be  used  for  the  relief  of  pains  about  the  face  and  head.  Boiled  in  vinegar  and 
applied  to  carious  cavities  in  teeth,  it  is  used  to  relieve  toothache.  In  paralysis  of  the 
tongue  or  pharynx  and  in  relaxation  of  the  uvula  it  may  be  employed  as  a masticatory 
or  in  a gargle.  Its  powder  has  been  recommended  as  a sternutatory  in  chronic  inflam- 
mation of  the  frontal  sinuses.  Its  dose  as  a masticatory  is  from  Gm.  2-4  (grs.  30-60). 
The  action  and  uses  of  Anacyclus  Pyrethrum  are  identical  with  those  of  the  officinal  drug, 
but  the  former  appears  to  be  the  more  active  of  the  two. 

Every  part  of  Spilanthes  has  an  aromatic  and  acrid  taste,  which  excites  free  salivation. 
In  its  native  country  it  is  used  as  a remedy  for  gout , rheumatism , and  gravel,  and  also  as 
a diuretic  in  dropsy  and  as  a vermifuge.  In  Europe  it  has  been  chiefly  employed  for  the 
relief  of  toothache,  and  for  many  years  a tincture  made  from  the  plant  has  been  in  popular 
use  under  the  name  of  Paraguay  roux.  When  the  aching  tooth  is  hollow  the  tincture  is 
applied  to  the  carious  cavity  on  cotton,  otherwise  it  is  painted  or  rubbed  upon  the  adjacent 
gum.  It  does  not  act  as  an  irritant  upon  the  latter. 

Lettcanthemum  yulgare,  white-weed  or  field-daisy,  is  stated  to  be  capable  of  pro- 
ducing a very  intense  and  troublesome  form  of  dermatitis  in  persons  who  are  liable  to  be 
poisoned  by  other  plants.  It  usually  assumes  the  eczematous  form,  such  as  is  produced 
by  poison-ivy,  ivy,  etc.  An  interesting  narrative  of  cases  is  given  by  Dr.  James  S. 
Howe  ( Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  March,  1877,  p.  227). 

PYROGALLOL,  U.  S. — Pyrogallol. 

Pyrogallolum , P.  G.  ; Acidum  pyrogallicum. — Pyrogallic  add,  E.  ; Acide  pyrogallique, 
Fr. ; Pyrogallol,  Pyrogallussdure,  G. 

Formula  C6H3(OH)3.  Molecular  weight  125.7. 

A triatomic  phenol  obtained  chiefly  by  the  dry  distillation  of  gallic  acid.  It  should  be 
kept  in  dark  amber-colored  vials. — U.  S. 

Pyrogallol  was  first  obtained  by  Scheele  in  1786  upon  heating  gallic  acid,  and  was  by 
him  considered  pure  gallic  acid.  Gmelin  pointed  out  the  difference  between  the  two  sub- 
stances, and  Pelouze  first  showed  that  gallic  acid  when  heated  splits  up  into  pyrogallol 
and  carbon  dioxide. 

Preparation. — When  gallic  acid  is  heated  with  two  or  three  times  its  weight  of 
water  for  about  half  an  hour  at  a temperature  between  200°  and  210°  C.  (392°-410°  F.), 
under  pressure  in  a suitable  boiler,  in  such  a manner  that  the  liberated  carbon  dioxide 
can  escape,  a somewhat  colored  solution  of  pyrogallol  is  obtained  : this  is  boiled  with 
animal  charcoal,  filtered,  and  evaporated ; when  cool  a scarcely  colored  crystalline  mass  is 
obtained,  which  is  still  further  purified  by  sublimation.  Or  pyrogallol  may  be  obtained 
by  the  direct  sublimation  of  gallic  acid  (previously  dried  at  100°  C.)  in  an  oil -bath  at 
200°  or  210°  C.  (392°  or  410°  F.)  ; in  this  case  the  yield  is  rarely  more  than  25  or  30 
per  cent.,  while  by  the  first  process  nearly  the  whole  theoretical  yield  (about  75  per  cent.) 
is  obtained. 

Properties  and  Tests. — Pyrogallol  occurs  in  light  white,  shining  laminae  or  fine 
needles,  odorless  and  having  a bitter  taste ; on  exposure  to  air  and  light  they  acquire  a 
gray  or  darker  tint.  It  is  soluble  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  in  1.7  parts  of  water  and  in  1 part 
of  alcohol ; very  soluble  in  boiling  water  and  in  boiling  alcohol  ; also  soluble  in  1.2  parts 
of  ether.  When  heated  to  131°  C.  (267.8°  F.),  pyrogallol  melts,  and  may  be  sublimed 
unchanged.  When  ignited,  it  is  consumed,  leaving  no  residue.  The  aqueous  solution, 
which  is  at  first  neutral  and  colorless,  gradually  acquires,  by  exposure  to  the  air,  a brown 
color  and  an  acid  reaction  due  to  absorption  of  oxygen.  The  same  change  takes  place 
very  rapidly  if  the  solution  contains  a caustic  alkali.  The  aqueous  solution  (1  in  10)  of 
pyrogallol  reduces  solutions  of  the  salts  of  silver,  gold,  and  mercury  even  in  the  cold. 
When  freshly  prepared,  1 Cc.  of  the  aqueous  solution  (1  in  20)  is  colored  brownish-red 
by  a few  drops  of  ferric  chloride  test-solution,  and  this  color  is  changed  to  a deep  bluish- 
black  on  the  addition  of  1 or  2 drops  of  ammonia-water.  A bluish-black  color  is  also 
produced  in  the  aqueous  solution  of  pyrogallol  by  freshly-prepared  ferrous  sulphate 
test-solution. 

If  lime-water  be  shaken  with  pyrogallol,  the  former  assumes  a purple  color,  which  soon 
changes  to  brown  and  black,  the  mixture  becoming  turbid  at  the  same  time. 

Derivative  Compound. — Gallacetophenoxe,  Gallactophenone,  Trioxyacetophenone,  Alizarin 
yellow  C. — C6H2.(0H)3C2H30.  This  is  a derivative  of  pyrogallol,  in  which  a hydrogen  atom  has 
been  displaced  by  the  acetyl  group,  C2H30.  It  is  formed  when  a mixture  of  1 part  of  pyrogallol 


1336 


PYROXYLINITM. 


and  1£  parts  each  of  zinc  chloride  and  glacial  acetic  acid  is  heated  for  a short  time  to  145°-150° 
C.  (293°-302°  F.) ; upon  adding  water  to  the  fusion  while  still  hot,  gallacetophenone  separates, 
and  may  be  purified  by  crystallization  from  boiling  water.  Thus  obtained,  it  is  a crystalline 
powder  of  dirty  flesh-color  and  faintly  acid  or  neutral  reaction.  Gallacetophenone  requires  600 
parts  of  cold  water  for  solution,  but  is  readily  soluble  in  hot  water,  alcohol,  or  ether,  and  in  all 
proportions  in  glycerin  ; it  melts  at  170°  C.  (338°  F.). 

Action  and  Uses. — Pyrogallol  may  act  as  an  intense  poison.  Thus,  in  a case  in 
which  it  was  made  into  an  ointment  and  rubbed  freely  into  and  bound  upon  the  skin 
of  a patient  with  psoriasis,  it  occasioned  death  in  collapse,  preceded  by  mucous  vomiting 
and  diarrhoea,  rigors  followed  by  fever,  black  and  acid  urine  containing  an  abundance 
of  globulin,  and  under  the  microscope  the  red  corpuscles  were  found  disorganized. 
Similar  results  were  observed  in  experiments  on  animals  by  Neisser,  who  cautions  those 
who  may  use  the  acid  against  corresponding  dangers  ( Zeitschrift  f.  Min.  Med.,  i.  88). 
Besnier  refers  to  four  cases  of  psoriasis  in  which  this  acid  produced  toxical  effects,  and 
two  ended  fatally  {Med.  News , xlii.  128:  on  the  dangers  of  employing  this  acid,  see 
Therapeutic  Gazette , ix.  59 ; x.  180).  In  some  experiments  upon  dogs  and  rabbits  with 
it  changes  are  said  to  have  been  found  in  the  liver  identical  with  those  produced  by 
phosphorus-poisoning  (E.  Bousseau,  Inaug.  Thesis.  Univ.  of  Penna.,  1880).  There  does 
not  appear  to  be  any  warrant  for  its  internal  use. 

Pyrogallol  was  used  with  the  best  results,  and  without  accident,  in  about  200  cases 
of  psoriasis  by  Jarisch,  and  in  a considerable  number  of  these  the  application  was 
made  over  a large  portion  of  the  body.  It  should  not  be  applied  too  profusely  to  the 
diseased  patches,  and  not  at  all  to  the  sound  skin  {Zeitschrift  f.  Min.  Med.,  i.  631.). 
An  ointment  made  with  lard  or  with  vaseline  containing  10  per  cent,  of  the  acid  was 
employed.  But  neither  this  nor  any  other  topical  application  can  effect  a permanent 
cure  of  psoriasis,  which  is  only  the  external  and  local  manifestation  of  a systemic 
disease.  It,  however,  stands  hardly  second  to  chrysophanic  acid  as  a remedy  for  psoriasis. 
It  does  not  stain  the  hair  or  inflame  the  skin  so  much,  although  it  colors  the  skin  brown. 
It  has  the  advantage,  also,  of  being  inodorous.  Vidal  used  successfully,  in  the  treatment 
of  phagedenic  syphilitic  ulcers,  an  ointment  made  with  1 part  of  the  acid  to  5 of  vase- 
line, and  1 part  each  of  acid  and  of  starch  to  3 of  vaseline.  His  results  have  been 
confirmed  by  Lermoyez  and  Hitier  {Bull,  de  Therap.,  c.  403).  In  lupus  the  ointment  is 
said  to  attack  the  diseased  nodules  only,  causing  them  to  become  necrosed  and  fall  out, 
while  the  adjacent  skin  is  not  injured.  Schwimmer,  however,  does  not  claim  for  this 
treatment  a permanent  cure.  He  found  it  efficient  in  the  superficial  and  diffuse,  rather 
than  in  the  deeper  and  more  concentrated,  forms  of  the  disease ; and  he  held  it  essential 
to  follow  the  caustic  by  an  application  of  mercurial  plaster  {Philad.  Med.  Times , xv. 
145).  It  has  been  employed  with  advantage  in  the  treatment  of  leprosy.  According  to 
Unna,  its  toxical  action  may  be  prevented  by  administering  a mineral  acid  (hydrochloric) 
internally  during  the  application  of  pyrogallol  to  the  skin  {Edinburg  Med.  Journ.,  xxii. 
377).  In  epithelioma  the  mode  of  action  is  the  same  in  kind,  but  is  slower  and  less 
complete  (Jarisch,  Centralblatt  f.  Therapie,  i.  17).  In  the  use  of  this  preparation  the 
dangers  that  may  attend  it  should  be  borne  in  mind.  A 20  per  cent,  ointment  may  be 
employed.  Its  action  is  apt  to  be  hastened  by  the  repeated  application  of  warm  poultices. 

Gallacetophenone  has  been  used  as  a substitute  for  pyrogallol  on  account  of  the 
poisonous  qualities  of  the  latter.  It  has  been  found  useful  in  the  treatment  of  psoriasis 
when  applied  in  10  per  cent,  solutions. 

PYROXYLINUM,  TJ.  Pyroxylin. 

Pyroxylin,  Br. ; Lana  collodii. — Soluble  gun-cotton,  Golloxylin , Collodion  cotton , E. ; 
Fulmicoton  soluble,  Fr. ; Kollodiumwolle,  G. 

Preparation.— Purified  Cotton  100  Gm. ; Nitric  Acid  1400  Cc. ; Sulphuric  Acid 
2200  Cc. ; Alcohol,  Ether,  Water,  each  a sufficient  quantity.  Mix  the  acids  gradually  in 
a glass  or  porcelain  vessel  and,  when  the  temperature  of  the  mixture  has  fallen  to  32°  C. 
(90°  F.),  add  the  purified  cotton.  By  means  of  a glass  rod  imbue  it  thoroughly  with  the 
acids,  and  allow  it  to  macerate,  until  a sample  of  it,  taken  out,  thoroughly  washed  with 
a large  quantity  of  water,  and  subsequently  with  alcohol,  and  pressed,  is  found  to  be 
soluble  in  a mixture  of  1 volume  of  alcohol  and  3 volumes  of  ether.  Then  remove  the 
cotton  from  the  acids,  transfer  it  to  a larger  vessel,  and  wash  it,  first,  with  cold  water 
until  the  washings  cease  to  have  an  acid  taste,  and  then  with  boiling  water,  until  they 
cease  to  redden  blue  litmus-paper.  Finally,  drain  the  pyroxylin  on  filtering-paper,  and 


PYR  OXYLINtJM. 


1337 


dry  it  in  small,  detached  pellets,  by  means  of  a water-  or  steam-bath,  at  a temperature 
not  exceeding  60°  C.  (140°  F.).  Keep  the  pyroxylin,  loosely  packed,  in  well-closed 
vessels  containing  not  more  than  about  25  Gm.,  in  a cool  and  dry  place,  remote  from 
lights  or  fire. — U.  S. 

Take  of  cotton  1 ounce ; sulphuric  acid,  nitric  acid,  each  5 fluidounces.  Mix  the 
acids  in  a porcelain  mortar,  immerse  the  cotton  in  the  mixture,  and  stir  it  for  three  min- 
utes with  a glass  rod  until  it  is  thoroughly  wetted  by  the  acids.  Transfer  the  cotton  to  a 
vessel  containing  water,  stir  it  well  with  a glass  rod,  decant  the  liquid,  pour  more  water 
upon  the  mass,  agitate  again,  and  repeat  the  affusion,  agitation,  and  decantation  until  the 
washing  ceases  to  give  a precipitate  with  barium  chloride.  Drain  the  product  on  filter- 
ing-paper and  dry  in  a water-bath. — Br. 

The  French  Codex  has  a similar  formula,  but  somewhat  different  proportions : it 
directs  the  maceration  of  55  parts  of  well-dried  cotton  in  a mixture  of  1000  parts  sul- 
phuric acid  specific  gravity  1.84  and  500  parts  nitric  acid  specific  gravity  1.42,  which 
has  been  cooled  to  30°  C.  (86°  F.).  The  German  Pharmacopoeia  directs  a mixture  of 
1000  parts  of  crude  sulphuric  acid  sp.  gr.  1.830  and  400  parts  of  crude  nitric  acid  sp.  gr. 
1.380 ; when  cooled  to  20°  C.  (68°  F.),  55  parts  of  purified  cotton  are  to  be  macerated  in 
the  mixture  for  twenty-four  hours  at  a temperature  of  15°-20°  C.  (59°-68°  F.). 

A large  number  of  formulas  for  preparing  collodion  cotton  have  been  published,  many 
with  the  nitric  acid  replaced  by  a nitrate,  and  the  sulphuric  acid  correspondingly  increased 
in  quantity.  Such  mixtures  may  be  made  to  yield  as  good  results  as  the  mixture  of  the 
two  acids,  but,  owing  to  the  separation  of  crystalline  sulphates,  it  is  more  difficult  to 
imbue  the  cotton  thoroughly  and  uniformly  with  the  mixture.  Mann  (1853)  found  the 
following  proportions  serviceable  for  1 part  of  cotton  : 20  parts  potassium  nitrate  and  31 
parts  sulphuric  acid  specific  gravity  1.830  to  1.835,  or  10  parts  potassium  nitrate  and  33 
parts  sulphuric  acid  specific  gravity  1.80 ; the  mixture  is  cooled  to  30°  C.  (86°  F.),  and 
the  cotton  macerated  at  the  same  temperature  for  not  less  than  1 day  or  more  than  six 
days.  Good  results  will  also  be  obtained  with  a mixture  of  17  parts  sodium  nitrate  and 
68  parts  sulphuric  acid  specific  gravity  1.78,  or  of  34  parts  sodium  nitrate  and  66  parts 
sulphuric  acid  specific  gravity  1.80  ; the  cotton  is  introduced  after  twenty-four  hours  and 
macerated  for  five  days.  Klie  (1877)  succeeded  with  proportions  nearly  identical  with 
those  of  Mann’s  first  formula. 

In  making  collodion  cotton  it  is  essential  that  due  attention  be  paid  to  the  strength  of 
the  acids,  or,  if  a nitrate  is  used,  to  its  freedom  from  chloride  ; likewise,  that  the  temper- 
ature be  permitted  to  fall  as  indicated  before  the  cotton,  which  should  be  free  from  fat,  is 
introduced,  and  the  cotton  be  thoroughly  imbued  with  the  acid  mixture  If  introduced 
at  too  high  a temperature,  other  insoluble  compounds  will  be  produced  or  the  cotton  will 
dissolve  and  portions  not  moistened  with  the  liquid  will  not  be  acted  on,  and  likewise 
remain  insoluble.  Small  portions  of  the  cotton  may  from  time  to  time  be  examined, 
thoroughly  washed  with  water,  afterward  with  alcohol,  pressed,  and  then  examined  as  to 
their  solubility  in  a mixture  of  ether  and  alcohol.  When  these  are  found  to  be  soluble, 
the  cotton  is  withdrawn  or  the  whole  mixture  added  to  a large  bulk  of  water,  the  cotton 
washed  with  water  until  free  from  acid  taste,  then  pressed  to  free  it  from  water,  steeped 
in  alcohol,  and  again  pressed,  after  which  it  may  be  dried  by  exposure  at  a moderate  tem- 
perature (25°  C.  P.  G.).  The  yield  is  usually  about  140  per  cent. 

Composition  and  Properties. — Pelouze  (1838)  obtained  explosive  compounds 
by  treating  cotton,  hemp,  and  paper  with  strong  nitric  acid.  In  1846,  Schoenbein 
announced  the  discovery  of  gun-cotton , and  in  the  same  year  Otto  published  a process  for 
preparing  it  by  maceration  in  fuming  nitric  acid.  In  1848,  Maynard  employed  collodion. 
That  gun-cotton  is  a nitrated  substitution-compound  of  cellulose  was  recognized  at  an 
early  day,  and  that  the  weight  of  the  product  is  greater  than  that  of  the  cotton  employed. 
At  one  time  the  theory  was  advanced  that  by  the  action  of  nitric  acid  on  cotton  one,  two, 
or  more  hydrogen  atoms  in  the  cellulose  were  displaced  by  the  group  N02,  and  thus  nitro- 
compounds formed,  to  which  the  name  of  mono-,  di-,  tri-  nitro-cellulose,  etc.  was  given. 
Later  investigations  have  proven  that  true  nitric  ethers  are  formed,  in  which  one,  two,  or 
more  atoms  of  hydrogen  have  been  displaced  by  a corresponding  number  of  atoms  of  the 
nitric-acid  radical.  The  terms  cellulose,  mono-,  di-,  tri-,  penta-nitrate,  etc.  are  now  used 
to  designate  the  different  compounds.  All  cellulose  nitrates  give  up  nitric  acid  when 
treated  with  alkalies,  and  concentrated  sulphuric  acid  displaces  the  nitric  acid  almost  com- 
pletely, even  in  the  cold.  The  nitrates  are  also  converted  back  into  cellulose  by  the 
action  of  reducing  agents,  such  as  ferrous  acetate,  potassium  hydrosulphide,  or  a solution 
of  stannous  chloride  in  caustic  soda.  The  same  change  occurs  when  the  nitrate  is  boiled 


1338 


QUASSIA. 


with  ferrous  sulphate  and  hydrochloric  acid,  the  whole  of  the  nitrogen  escaping  as  nitric 
oxide  if  air  be  excluded,  according  to  the  following  equation  : 2C6H7(N03)305  -f-  30 
HC1  + 30FeSO4  = C6H10O5  + 6NO  + 10Fe2(SO4)3  -f  5Fe2Cl6  + 12H20.  This  plan  may 
be  used  as  a ready  means  of  determining  the  amount  of  nitration  of  pyroxylin  (Eder). 
In  Germany  the  name  “pyroxylin,”  which  in  England  and  this  country  is  used  to  desig- 
nate the  soluble  nitrates  employed  in  the  manufacture  of  collodion,  is  restricted  to  the  insol- 
uble and  explosive  variety  better  known  as  gun-cotton,  and  which  is  probably  a penta- 
or  hexa-nitrate  ; the  name  “ colloxylin  ” is  there  given  to  the  soluble  varieties.  When  the 
mixture  of  nitric  and  sulphuric  acids  as  directed  in  the  official  formula  is  allowed  to  act 
on  cotton,  one  or  more  cellulose  nitrates  may  be  formed,  dependent  upon  the  temperature 
employed,  the  strength  of  the  acids,  and  the  length  of  time  of  immersion ; the  presence 
of  sulphuric  acid  simply  facilitates  the  elimination  of  water,  which  invariably  accompanies 
the  formation  of  ethers.  The  cotton  is  apparently  not  altered  in  structure  and  appear- 
ance, the  staple  remaining  intact.  Official  collodion  cotton  is  probably  a mixture  of  cel- 
lulose dinitrate  and  trinitrate  (C6H8(N03)205)  and  (C6H7(N03)305),  both  of  which  are 
soluble  in  a mixture  of  alcohol  and  ether. 

Similar  nitrated  compounds  are  also  obtained  from  other  carbohydrates  ; thus  starch 
yields  with  concentrated  nitric  acid  a transparent  jelly  of  xyloidin , C6H9(N02)05,  and  a 
similar  change  is  produced  in  paper  by  dipping  it  into  strong  nitric  acid  and  afterward 
washing  with  water. 

Preservation. — When  collodion  cotton,  particularly  in  the  moist  state,  is  kept  in 
well-stoppered  bottles,  it  undergoes  decomposition,  frequently  accompanied  with  the  evo- 
lution of  nitrous  vapors  or  with  ignition  and  explosion.  It  is  best  preserved  in  a dry 
atmosphere  and  enclosed  in  vessels  which  permit  the  free  access  of  air,  but  should  never 
be  compressed  tightly. 

Uses. — This  article  is  not  used  medicinally. 

QUASSIA,  U.  S.— Quassia. 

Quassise  lignum,  Br. ; Lignum  quassise , P.  G. — Quassia-wood , Bitter-wood , Bitter  ash , E.  ; 
Quassie  amer , Bois  amer , Fr.  Cod. ; Quassienholz , Fliegenholz , G. ; Quassia  amarga. , Sp. 

The  wood  of  Picrsena  excelsa,  Lindley , s.  Quassia  (Simaruba,  De  Candolle , Picrasma, 
Planchon ) excelsa,  Swartz.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 57. 

Nat.  Ord. — Simarubacese. 

Origin. — This  is  a large  tree  common  in  the  island  of  Jamaica  and  in  some  other 
West  Indian  islands.  It  attains  a height  of  18-24  M.  (60  to  80  feet)  and  a diameter  of 
.6-9  M.  (2  to  3 feet)  and  in  aspect  resembles  the  common  ash.  It  has  imparipinnate 
leaves,  with  short-stalked  oval-lanceolate  entire  leaflets,  and  dense  cymes  of  small  white 
polygamous  flowers,  followed  by  black  subglobular  drupes  of  the  size  of  a pea. 

Description. — Jamaica  quassia-wood  is  imported  in  billets  varying  in  length  from 
.9-1.8  M.  (3  to  6 feet)  and  in  thickness  from  a few  to  25-50  Cm.  (10  to  20  inches).  It  is 
usually  deprived  of  the  bark,  is  dense,  tough,  of  medium  hardness,  yellowish-white  in 
color,  splitting  lengthwise,  coarsely  splintery,  and  is  frequently  marked  with  irregular  black 
lines  or  patches,  due  to  the  mycelium  of  a fungus.  On  a transverse  section  are  seen  a 
minute  central  pith,  numerous  narrow  medullary  rays  composed  of  two  or  three  rows  of 
cells,  wood-tissue  containing  large  vessels,  and  irregular  wavy  concentric  circles  resem- 
bling annual  rings.  The  wood  is  inodorous  and  has  an  intensely  and  purely  bitter  taste. 
In  the  shops  it  is  usually  found  in  raspings  or  chips,  and  the  wood  is  turned  into  cups 
which  are  sold  as  hitter  cups  or  quassia  cups. 

Constituents. — Winckler  (1835)  isolated  the  bitter  principle  quassiin  or  quassin  from 
the  concentrated  decoction  by  precipitating  pectin  with  lime,  evaporating  the  filtrate, 
exhausting  the  residue  with  alcohol,  mixing  with  ether,  filtering,  and  evaporating  spon- 
taneously. A.  Christensen  (1882)  prepared  it  by  neutralizing  the  infusion  of  quassia 
with  soda,  precipitating  with  tannin,  and  decomposing  the  precipitate  with  lead  oxide  or 
lime.  Quassin  has  the  composition  C31H4209  (Christensen) — according  to  Wiggers  (1837) 
C10H12O3.  It  crystallizes  in  thin  rectangular  plates,  in  small  prisms,  or  in  silky  needles  of 
a very  bitter  taste,  is  easily  soluble  in  hot  alcohol  and  in  chloroform,  sparingly  soluble  in 
ether  and  benzin,  and  dissolves  slowly  in  cold  water.  Acids,  alkalies,  and  certain  salts 
increase  the  solubility  of  quassin  in  water.  By  treatment  with  warm  diluted  sulphuric 
acid  it  is  converted  into  a resin  and  a compound  which  has  the  formula  C31H3809,  reduces 
silver  nitrate,  and  is  not  precipitated  by  tannin.  The  yield  of  quassin  is  .05  to  .15  per 
cent.  Quassiin  ( picrasmin ) was  shown  by  Massute  (1890)  to  represent  two  crystallized 


QUASSIA. 


1339 


principles — one,  C35H46O10,  melting  at  204°  C.  (399.2°  F.),  and  the  other,  C3tJHi8O10,  at 
209°-212°  C.  (408.2-413.60°  F.).  The  same  author  also  isolated  a small  quantity  of 
alkaloids,  which  dissolved  with  an  ultramarine  fluorescence  in  acidulated  alcohol. 

Allied  Drugs. — Surinam  Quassia,  which  is  used  on  the  continent  of  Europe,  is  the  wood  of 
Quassia  amara,  Linn£,  a large  shrub  or  small  tree  indigenous  to  Surinam.  It  is  met  with  in 
commerce  in  billets  about  2-10  Cm.  (1  to  4 inches)  in  diameter  or  in  pieces  not  thicker  than  a 
finger ; it  has  very  fine,  almost  obscure,  one-rowed  medullary  rays  and  smaller  vessels,  and  is 
therefore  apparently  less  porous ; otherwise,  it  closely  resembles  the  preceding.  The  German 
Pharmacopoeia  permits  the  use  of  this  and  the  preceding  variety  of  quassia. 

Quassia-bark  of  Surinam  is  about  .8-2  Mm.  (J^  to  ^ inch)  thick,  very  fragile,  externally  of 
a gray  color  and  nearly  smooth,  internally  whitish  and  smooth. 

Quassia-bark  of  Jamaica  varies  from  about  4-8  Mm.  (4  to  ^ inch)  in  thickness,  is  externally 
blackish-gray,  longitudinally  furrowed  and  verrucose,  and  on  the  inner  surface  yellowish-white 
and  smooth.  When  broken  transversely  the  fracture  is  smooth  in  the  outer  and  tough  and 
fibrous  in  the  inner  layer ; the  latter  portion  is  seen  to  be  radially  striate.  Both  quassia-barks 
are  easily  removed  from  the  wood,  with  the  bitter  taste  of  which  they  agree. 

Simaruba  officinalis,  De  Candolle , a native  of  Guiana,  Venezuela,  and  Northern  Brazil. 

Simaruba  medicinalis,  Endlicher,  indigenous  to  Southern  Florida,  the  West  India  Islands,  and 
Central  America.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 56.  Simarouba,  Fr.  Cod.;  Ruhrrinde, 
G. ; Simaruba,  Sp. 

Simaruba-bark  comes  in  curved  or  quilled  pieces,  varying  in  size.  Its  external  surface  is  un- 
even, rough,  and  wrinkled,  covered  with  a yellowish  or  brownish  suberous  layer,  or,  if  this  is 
removed,  of  a grayish-brown  color.  The  coarsely  fibrous  bast- 
layer  is  thick  and  dull-brownish  ; the  inner  surface  is  of  a lighter  Fig.  236. 

color  and  striate.  The  bark  is  very  tough,  and  breaks  with  diffi- 
culty in  a transverse  direction,  but  may  be  longitudinally  torn, 
the  pieces  remaining  united  by  some  of  the  long  and  tough  bast- 
fibres.  When  cut  transversely  the  outer  tissue  is  seen  to  contain 
scattered  brown-yellow  granules  consisting  of  groups  of  stone-cells, 
and  the  inner  layer  is  radially  striate  in  an  oblique  direction, 
caused  by  the  long  and  wavy  bast-wedges.  Simaruba-bark  is 
without  odor  and  has  a strong  and  persistent  bitter  taste.  The  bark 
of  the  second  species  is  very  similar  to  the  one  described,  but  is  paler, 
usually  thicker,  of  a light  yellowish-  or  reddish-brown  color,  has  SnU section^mgnifie^6186 
a smoother  inner  surface,  and  is  equally  bitter.  Simaruba-bark 

was  analyzed  by  Morin  (1822),  and  found  to  contain  a little  volatile  oil,  resin,  traces  of  gallic 
acid,  malate  and  calcium  oxalate  , and  other  salts.  The  bitter  principle  is  not  precipitated  by 
lead  salts ; it  was  obtained  as  an  extract-like  mass,  and  is  supposed  to  be  identical  with  quassin. 

Simaba  cedron,  Planchon , and  Sim.  ferruginea,  St.  Hilaire.  These  trees  are  indigenous,  the 
former  to  Colombia  and  the  latter  to  Brazil ; they  resemble  the  above,  but  have  hermaphrodite 
flowers.  All  their  parts  are  very  bitter.  The  fruit  is  a pear-shaped  drupe  of  the  size  of  a hen’s 
egg,  and  contains  an  oblong  seed*,  the  cotyledons  are  plano-convex,  grayish  or  brownish,  hard, 
inodorous,  and  very  bitter.  Lewy  (1851)  exhausted  the  seeds  with  ether,  and  afterward  with 
alcohol,  from  which  very  bitter  silky  needles  of  cedrin  crystallized.  Tanret  (1880)  regards  it  as 
identical  with  his  valdivin , obtained  from  the  fruit  of  Simaba  Valdivia,  Planclion , by  treating 
the  alcoholic  extract  with  chloroform  and  crystallizing  from  boiling  water.  Valdivin,  c36ii  48“ 
O20.5H2O,  melts  at  230°  C.,  is  insoluble  in  ether,  easily  soluble  in  alcohol  and  chloroform,  and 
soluble  in  600  parts  of  cold  water ; this  solution  foams  on  agitation.  Alkalies  decompose  the 
principle,  which  is  emetic. 

Samadera  indica,  Gaertner  (Niota  pentapetala,  Lamarck),  is  a medium-sized  East  Indian  tree, 
all  parts  of  which  are  very  bitter.  The  bark  is  red-brown,  smooth,  internally  whitish  dotted, 
and  has  a short  and  finely  fibrous  fracture.  The  fruit  is  obliquely  ovate,  compressed,  and  con- 
tains a brownish  curved  seed.  De  Vrij  (1872)  expressed  from  the  seeds  33  per  cent,  of  a light- 
yellow  bitter  oil  which  contains,  according  to  Oudemans,  84  per  cent,  of  olein  and  16  per  cent, 
of  palmitin  and  stearin.  The  bitter  principle  samaderin  was  yellowish,  and  soluble  in  water  and 
alcohol,  and  amorphous*,  Tonningen  (1858)  had  obtained  it  from  the  seed  and  bark  in  -white 
scales,  which  became  yellow  with  nitric  or  hydrochloric  acid  and  violet-red  with  sulphuric  acid. 

Cascara  amarga,  or  Honduras  Bark.  Under  this  name  a bitter  bark  has  been  introduced 
which  has  been  referred  to  a species  of  Picramnia.  It  has  a gray-brown,  smoothish,  thick  cork, 
and  is  internally  deep-brown,  with  numerous  white  dots  of  groups  of  stone-cells.  F.  A.  Thomp- 
son (1884)  obtained  4.5  per  cent,  of  ash  and  3 per  cent,  of  impure  amorphous  alkaloid  having  a 
sweetish,  afterward  bitter,  taste. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  bitterness  of  quassia  is  more  intense  than  that  of  most 
other  stomachic  tonics:  like  them,  it  excites  the  appetite  for  food  and  quickens  digestion, 
but  if  too  long  continued  it  produces  derangement  of  the  stomach.  It  may  exhibit 
poisonous  qualities,  as  in  the  following  case : A concentrated  infusion  of  the  drug  was 
by  mistake  given  in  enema  to  a child  four  years  old.  Within  an  hour  the  child  became 
unconscious  and  collapsed,  the  head  was  thrown  back  and  the  pupils  were  contracted,  the 


1340 


QUERCTIS  ALBA. 


respiration  was  inaudible,  and  the  pulse  could  not  be  felt.  It  was  restored  by  alcohol, 
ether,  and  ammonia  (Med.  Record , xviii.  404). 

In  debilitated  states  of  the  digestion  quassia  enjoys  a merited  reputation,  especially  in 
dyspepsia  with  regurgitation  or  vomiting  of  the  food  produced  by  an  exhausted  condi- 
tion of  the  stomach  and  accompanied  more  or  less  frequently  with  sick  headache.  Espe- 
cially is  it  of  use  in  gastric  vertigo  when  associated  with  sodium  bicarbonate.  In 
atonic  diarrhoea  due  to  irritation  of  the  colon  by  accumulated  feces  the  medicine  is  also 
beneficial.  Quassia  was  once  held  to  be  a remedy  for  lumhricoid  worms , which  it  is, 
partly  because  it  improves  the  digestive  powers.  Enemas  of  infusion  of  quassia  are 
efficient  remedies  for  ascarides  of  the  rectum. 

The  dose  of  the  powder  is  stated  at  Grm.  1.30-2  (gr.  xx-xxx),  but  it  is  seldom  admin- 
istered in  this  manner.  The  most  appropriate  form  of  the  medicine  is  the  infusion  made 
with  cold  water.  Quassin  is  best  administered  in  pill  made  with  the  amorphous  prep- 
aration and  containing  from  Grm.  0.025-0.06  (gr.  ss-j).  Crystallized  quassin  is  given 
in  doses  of  Om.  0.002-0.006  (gr.  J^-jlg-).  Campardon  prefers  the  former,  and  states 
that  the  medicine  does  not  occasion  tolerance,  and  that  its  characteristic  action  is  some- 
times seen  for  a month  after  its  disuse  in  salivation,  increased  flow  of  urine,  and  regular- 
ity of  the  stools. 

QUERCUS  ALBA,  U.  S.— White  Oak  ; Oak-bark. 

Cortex  quercus. — JEcorce  de  chene , Fr.  Cod. ; Eichenrinde , Gr. ; Corteza  del  encina , Sp. 

The  bark  of  Quercus  alba,  Linnt  ( U.  $.),  Q.  Bobur,  Linne  ( Br .,  P.  Gi).  Bentley  and 
Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 248,  250,  251. 

Nat.  Ord. — Cupuliferse. 

Origin. — The  oaks  are  shrubs  or  trees  growing  chiefly  in  the  temperate  zone,  and 
often  forming  extensive  forests.  They  have  monoecious  flowers,  the  staminate  ones  in 
slender  and  naked  catkins,  and  the  pistillate  flowers  either  single  or  in  small  groups,  and 
followed  by  a one-seeded  nut,  the  acorn , which  is  enclosed  at  the  base  by  a cup  formed 
by  the  indurated  scaly  involucre.  The  leaves  of  some  species  are  entire  or  nearly  so, 
but  most  species  have  sinuately  toothed  or  lobed  or  even  pinnatifid  leaves,  which  are 
coriaceous  and  evergreen  or  mostly  deciduous. 

The  white  oak  is  a stately  tree,  18-24  M.  (60  to  80  feet)  high  and  1. 8-2.4  M.  (6  to  8 
feet)  thick.  It  grows  from  Canada  to  Northern  Florida,  and  west  to  Wisconsin  and 
Eastern  Texas.  The  wood  is  light-colored,  strong,  and  durable  ; the  leaves  are  sinuately- 
lobed,  smooth,  and  on  the  lower  side  pale  glaucous ; the  cup  is  saucer-shaped,  tuberculate, 
and  much  shorter  than  the  oblong  acorn. 

The  European  oak,  which  somewhat  resembles  the  white  oak,  grows  to  the  height  of 
30  or  40  M.  (100  or  120  feet).  Three  varieties  are  known,  which  are  regarded  by  some 
botanists  as  distinct  species ; in  the  variety  pubescens  the  old  leaves  remain  hairy,  in 
sessiliflora  they  are  smooth,  and  both  have  the  pistillate  flowers  and  fruit  sessile,  while 
in  the  variety  pedunculata  they  are  raised  upon  a long  peduncle.  The  European  phar- 
macopoeias usually  direct  the  bark  to  be  collected  from  the  branches  or  young  stems. 

Description. — The  bark  is  collected  early  in  spring,  and  is  deprived  of  the  greater 
portion  of  the  longitudinally  fissured  thick  suberous  layer.  It  is  in  nearly  flat  pieces, 
about  5 Mm.  (1  inch)  or  more  thick,  of  a pale-brown  color  externally,  with  occasional 
patches  of  the  gray  scaly  cork ; the  inner  surface  is  somewhat  lighter  in  color,  and 
marked  with  short  sharp  longitudinal  ridges,  produced  by  the  bast-bundles  projecting 
from  the  shrunken  parenchyma.  The  bark  is  tough,  breaks  with  a coarse  fibrous  fracture, 
and  has  a faint  tan-like  odor  and  a strongly  astringent  taste.  It  is  kept  in  the  shops  in 
the  form  of  an  irregular  coarse  and  fibrous  powder,  which  scarcely  tinges  the  saliva. 
The  tissue  contains  groups  of  stone-cells  and  crystals  of  calcium  oxalate. 

Oak-bark  as  used  in  Europe  is  in  quills,  the  bark  being  about  2 Mm.  (^L-  inch)  thick ; 
the  outer  surface  is  gray  or  brown-gray,  glossy,  and  smooth  or  somewhat  fissured ; the 
inner  surface  is  cinnamon-colored  and  somewhat  rigid.  The  bark  breaks  with  a smooth, 
and  in  the  inner  layer  with  a fibrous,  fracture,  and  in  odor  and  taste  resembles  the 
preceding. 

Constituents. — The  important  constituent  of  oak-bark  is  tannin ; gallic  acid  does 
not  appear  to  be  present.  The  tannin  produces  with  ferric  salt  a dark  blue-black  pre- 
cipitate, but  it  is  not  identical  with  gallotannic  acid,  since,  according  to  Stenhouse  (1842), 
it  is  incapable  of  being  converted  either  into  gallic  or  pyrogallic  acid.  This  quercitannic 
acid  is  yellowish-brown,  amorphous,  yields  a brown  precipitate  with  lead  acetate,  and 


QUERCUS  ALBA. 


1341 


was  found  by  Stenhouse  (1862)  to  yield  sugar  when  boiled  with  dilute  sulphuric  acid. 
But,  according  to  J.  Lowe  (1881),  this  tannin  is  not  a glucoside ; it  is  separated  anhy- 
drous, C28H24012,  by  saturating  its  solution  with  sodium  chloride ; it  is  almost  insoluble  in 
ether,  but  dissolves  readily  in  acetic  ether ; it  gives  yellowish-white  precipitates  with 
gelatin,  albumen,  tartar  emetic,  and  the  alkaloids,  and  when  heated  with  dilute  acids 
under  pressure  yields  oak-red , C^H.^On.  The  infusion  of  oak-bark  yields  to  ether  a little 
gallic  and  ellagic  acids.  It  is  not  known  whether  the  tannins  of  the  different  oak-barks 
are  alike.  Bowman  (1869)  determined  the  amount  of  tannin  in  young  white-oak  bark, 
by  means  of  gelatin,  to  be  11.21  per  cent.,  and  in  the  bark  from  older  trunks  only  6.34 
per  cent.  Gerber  (1843)  obtained  from  the  bark  of  the  European  oak  a bitter  principle 
which  may  also  be  present  in  the  bark  of  other  species.  A decoction  of  the  bark  of 
older  branches  with  very  dilute  sulphuric  acid  is  mixed  with  lime,  precipitated  with 
potassium  carbonate,  evaporated,  and  extracted  with  alcohol,  on  the  evaporation  of  which 
quercin  remains  behind  in  white  bitter  crystals. 

Other  Products  of  Oak.  (See  also  Gall^e,  pp.  764,  765). 

Quercus  tinctoria,  Bartram  (s.  Q.  velutina,  Lamarck).  This  is  the  black  oak , the  bark  of 
which  was  formerly  official,  and  is  largely  employed  in  the  arts  under  the  name  of  quercitron- 
bark.  The  tree  grows  from  Canada  and  the  New  England  States  to  Alabama  and  beyond  the 
Mississippi.  It  has  a close-grained  and  strong  wood.  The  leaves  are  somewhat  pubescent  on 
the  lower  surface  and  bristle-pointed  on  the  lobes  *,  the  cup  is  coarsely  scaly,  hemispherical,  con- 
ical at  the  base,  and  covers  fully  one-half  of  the  globular-ovate  acorn.  Gray  regards  it  as  a variety 
of  Qu.  coccinea,  Wangenheim , the  scarlet  oak.  The  bark  resembles  that  of  the  white  oak,  but 
the  suberous  layer,  which  is  generally  removed,  is  of  a blackish-brown  color,  and  the  inner  bark 
of  a deep  reddish-brown  with  a yellowish  tint.  Like  the  preceding,  it  is  usually  kept  as  a coarse 
powder ; when  masticated  it  tinges  the  saliva  bright  brownish-yellow,  due  to  the  presence  of 
quei'citrin , which  has  been  met  with  in  many  plants.  This  is  deposited  from  the  decoction 
of  black-oak  bark  on  cooling,  forms  when  pure  a yellow  crystalline,  inodorous,  and  nearly 
tasteless  powder,  which  is  sparingly  soluble  in  hot  and  nearly  insoluble  in  cold  water,  dissolves 
in  about  5 parts  of  alcohol,  slightly  in  ether,  is  colored  dark-green  by  ferric  chloride,  and  dis- 
solved in  alkalies  becomes  dark -brown  on  exposure.  Its  formula  is  C33H30O17  (C36H38O20,  Lieber- 
mann,  1879).  Treated  with  acids,  it  splits  into  the  crystalline  unfermentable  sugar  isodidcit, 
^6^14^6?  and  into  quercetin , C27H18012  (C24H16On,  Liebermann)  ; the  latter  is  likewise  yellow  and 
crystalline,  is  found  ready  formed  in  a number  of  plants,  is  colored  dark-green  by  ferric  chloride, 
precipitated  brick-red  by  lead  acetate,  sublimable  by  alkalies  resolved  into  phloroglucin  and 
quercetic  acid , C15H10O7,  and  with  fusing  potassa  yields  protocatechuic  acid. 

Quercus  falcata,  Michaux , s.  Q.  elongata,  Willdenow.  This  is  the  Spanish  oak  of  the  South- 
ern and  Middle  United  States.  It  has  a reddish  coarse-grained  wood,  and  yields  a thick  bark 
rich  in  tannin. 

Quercus  nigra,  Linn6,  s.  Q.  ferruginea,  Michaux , is  the  blackjack  of  the  Middle  and  Southern 
States  : it  is  a small  tree,  growing  in  barren  soil,  and  is  of  little  value. 

Quercus  virens,  Aiton , the  live-oak , has  a yellowish,  very  compact,  and  fine-grained  valuable 
wood,  and  a bark  rich  in  tannin.  The  live-oaks  of  the  Pacific  coast  are  Quercus  chrysolepis, 
Liebman , Q.  agrifolia,  N6e,  and  Q.  oblongifolia,  Torrey , the  latter  occurring  principally  in  South- 
ern California. 

Quercus  suber,  Linn6 , the  live-oak , grows  in  the  basin  of  the  Mediterranean,  and  has  been 
introduced  into  the  Southern  United  States.  It  has  evergreen  elliptic  or  ovate  mostly  sharp- 
toothed  leaves,  and  produces  an  elastic  suberous  layer  3-5  Cm.  (14  to  2 inches)  thick,  which  is 
collected  every  eight  or  ten  years  and  constitutes  the  cork  of  commerce.  Kiigler  (1884)  obtained 
from  air-dry  cork  about  .6  per  cent,  of  ash  rich  in  manganese,  a little  coniferin,  about  5 per 
cent,  of  tannin  and  derivatives,  and  about  12  per  cent,  of  chloroformic  extract,  including  the 
crystallizable  cerin,  C20H32O ; the  fat  suberin  cannot  be  extracted  by  simple  solvents,  but  is 
saponified  by  potassa,  yielding  glycerin  and  stearic  and  phellonic  acids,  the  latter  having  the 
composition  C22II4203.  Finely-powdered  cork  has  been  employed  as  an  absorbent  dusting  powder 
under  the  name  of  suberin. 

Semen  quercus  tostum.  Acorns  are  roasted  in  the  same  manner  as  coffee  until  they  have 
acquired  a brown  color,  when  they  are  coarsely  powdered.  This  is  used  as  acorn  coffee  (Eichel- 
kaffee,  G.).  According  to  Braconnot’s  analysis  (1849),  acorns  contain  starch,  fixed  oil,  citric 
acid,  uncrystallizable  sugar,  and  another  sugar  which  Dessaigne  (1851)  named  quercit  C6H1205. 

Action  and  Uses. — In  ancient  times  oak-bark  was  used  in  the  treatment  of 
haemoptysis  and  dysentery , and  pessaries  made  of  the  bruised  bark  were  employed  to 
restrain  uterine  haemorrhage.  The  crushed  leaves  were  applied  to  constringe  relaxed  parts. 
In  modern  times  it  has  been  resorted  to  for  similar  purposes,  and  also  to  cure  bronchiql 
flux.  It  has  been  maintained  that  persons  who  work  in  tan-pits  are  never  attacked  with 
intermittent  fever , and  that  they  enjoy  a like  immunity  from  phthisis.  Externally,  the 
decoction,  which  is  official,  has  been  applied  to  all  the  purposes  of  vegetable  astringents ; 
indeed,  oak-bark  is  rarely  used  except  in  the  form  of  decoction.  Cases  are  reported  in 
which  vaginal  injections  of  a decoction  of  oak-bark  were  followed  by  symptoms  of  peri- 


1342 


QUILL  A JA. 


tonitis  ( Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  Oct.  1879,  p.  523).  It  has  been  proposed  to  use 
the  fluid  extract  of  white  oak  for  injecting  hernial  sacs  {Med.  Record , xxix.  388). 
Suberin , above  referred  to,  is  used  as  a dressing  for  chapped  nipples  and  similar  lesions 
in  the  same  manner  as  lycopodium,  to  which  it  is  preferable  on  account  of  its  astringency. 
In  many  parts  of  England  grated  acorns  are  in  common  use  by  the  rustic  population  as 
a medicine  for  diarrhoea,  and  roasted  acorns,  mixed  with  cocoa  or  with  chocolate,  are 
employed  in  like  manner  ( Amer . Jour.  Phar .,  lviii.  597;  Therap.  Gaz .,  x.  708).  Fine 
cork  is  convenient  for  making  compresses  to  arrest  hemorrhage.  This  custom,  which  is 
a survival  of  ancient  medicine,  also  prevails  in  various  parts  of  France.  Roasted  acorns 
are  likewise  used  for  this  purpose,  as  well  as  in  the  treatment  of  flatulent  dyspepsia  and 
of  scrofula. 


QUILL  A J A,  Z7.  S. — Quillaja-bark. 

Quillaia , U.  S.  1880. — Soap-bark , E. ; Ecorce  de  quillaya , Fr. ; Seifenrinde , G. ; Cor- 
teza  de  quillaya , Sp. 

The  inner  bark  of  Quillaja  Saponaria,  Molina. 

Nat.  Ord. — Rosaceae,  Roseae. 

Origin. — The  tree  yielding  quillaja-bark  is  indigenous  to  Peru  and  Chili,  and  has 
evergreen,  leathery,  entire  leaves,  and  small  umbels  of  four  dioecious  flowers,  producing 
five  many-seeded  capsules. 

Description. — The  bark  comes  in  flat  pieces,  sometimes  60-90  Cm.  (2  or  3 feet) 
long,  several  inches  wide,  and  about  6 Mm.  (|  inch)  thick.  The  thick  brown  corky  layer 
is  usually  removed,  small  patches  of  it  merely  adhering  to  the  outer  surface,  which  is 
otherwise  nearly  smooth  and  pale-brownish  white,  like  the  inner  surface.  The  bark  is 
hard  and  tough,  breaks  with  a splintery  fracture,  and  shows  upon  transverse  section  a 
checkered  appearance,  due  to  the  tangential  arrangement  of  the  light-brown  bast-fibres  and 
white  bast-parenchyma,  and  to  the  white  narrow  radial  lines  of  the  medullary  rays.  The 
bark  has  no  odor,  but  its  dust  is  acid  and  sternutatory  ; it  has  a persistent  acrid  taste  and  its 
infusion  foams  like  a solution  of  soap. 

Constituents. — Quillaja-bark  contains  numerous  minute  crystals  of  calcium  sul- 
phate, a small  quantity  of  starch,  and  considerable  saponin.  The  latter  principle  was 
isolated  from  quillaja-bark  by  Le  Boeuff  (1850),  and  may  be  obtained  by  displacing  the 
powder  with  hot  alcohol,  and  allowing  the  tincture  to  cool.  The  cold  tincture  retains 
some  saponin  in  solution,  together  with  resinous  and  oily  matters,  and.  when  evaporated 
and  agitated  with  water  yields  a permanent  emulsion.  In  its  pure  state  saponin  is  a 
white  amorphous  powder  which  causes  sneezing,  is  nearly  inodorous,  has  a sweetish  after- 
ward acrid  taste,  is  soluble  in  4 parts  of  water,  more  soluble  in  weak  than  in  strong  alco- 
hol, and  insoluble  in  ether  and  volatile  oils.  Its  aqueous  solution  is  precipitated  by 
baryta-water,  the  precipitate  being  soluble  in  pure  water,  but  not  in  baryta-water  (Roch- 
leder).  It  has  the  composition  C32H540]8,  and  when  treated  with  acids  yields  a saccharine 
body  and  a series  of  decomposition-products,  the  final  one  being  sapogenin , C14H22C2,  a 
sparingly  soluble,  white  crystalline  compound.  (See  also  Saponaria.) 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Extractum  quillaja,  also  called  quillain.  Prepared 
with  hot  water,  S.  A.  McDonnell  obtained  20  to  25  per  cent,  of  a brown  not  hygroscopic 
extract,  of  which  1 grain  dissolved  in  1 oz.  of  water  will  yield  a tolerably  permanent 
emulsion  with  1 oz.  of  fixed  oil  or  1 drachm  of  oleoresin. 

Emulsive  Tincture,  recommended  by  Nicot  (1888),  is  prepared  of  quillaja  20  Gm., 
Tolu  balsam  200  Gnu.  vanilla  5 Gm.,  the  rind  of  two  lemons,  and  80  per  cent,  alcohol 
1000  Cc. 

Action  and  Uses. — Quillaja  owes  its  name  of  soap-bark  and  the  property  of  caus- 
ing water  in  which  it  is  macerated  to  froth  to  the  saponin  contained  in  it.  In  a case  of 
poisoning  by  “ quillajaic  acid  ” the  symptoms  were  rigors,  epigastric  cramp,  cold  sweats, 
tumors,  transient  syncope,  a small  pulse,  moist  skin,  excessive  vomiting,  anxiety  and  dis 
tress  referred  to  the  prsecordium,  vesical  tenesmus,  and  increased  secretion  of  urine  (Lesel- 
lier,  Ther.  Gaz.,  xi.  546).  Like  senega,  quillaja  has  been  found  useful  in  bronchitis  when 
the  tenacious  mucus  provokes  coughing,  but  it  is  less  acrid  to  the  taste,  and  therefore 
more  acceptable  than  the  former  drug.  It  is  less  adapted  to  acute  bronchitis  than 
to  the  chronic  forms  or  those  incident  to  emphysema,  dilated  bronchia,  etc.  Quillaja 
has  also  been  used  with  alleged  advantage  in  dropsy , and  is  reported  to  be  a ster- 
nutatory and  useful  in  coryza , and  also  as  a febrifuge.  The  powdered  bark  applied  as  a 
snuff,  is  said  to  have  cured  chronic  rhinitis  (Therap.  Gaz.,  xii.  720).  It  may  be  adininis- 


Q UIXIDINLE  SULPHAS. 


1343 


tered  iu  an  infusion  made  with  Gm.  32  in  Gm.  500  (^j  in  Oj)  of  water,  to  be  taken  during  a 
day.  The  dry  aqueous  extract  dissolves  readily  in  water,  and  the  solution  may  be 
employed  for  making  emulsions  of  castor,  cod-liver,  and  other  oils.  The  external  applica- 
tion of  the  bark  appears  to  be  the  most  important.  It  may  be  used  instead  of  soap  for 
washing  the  hairy  scalp  and  other  parts  of  the  skin  alfected  with  eruptions , ulcers , etc., 
for  removing  the  greasy  coating  which  some  skins  exude,  and  for  correcting  the  fetor 
which  the  feet,  armpits,  etc.  in  other  persons  exhale.  For  the  latter  purposes  a saturated 
tincture  may  be  added  to  water  until  it  acquires  the  proper  saponaceous  quality.  The 
tincture  has  also  been  used  to  promote  the  renewal  of  the  hair  in  alopecia  ( Phila . Med. 
Times,  xi.  29). 

QUINIDINiE  SULPHAS,  U.  S. — Quinidine  Sulphate. 

Chinidinum  ( Conchininum ) sidfuricum. — Sulphate  of  conquinine , E. ; Sulfate  de  quini- 
dine, Fr. ; Schieefelsaures  Chinidin,  Conchininsulfat,  G. 

Formula  (C20H24N2O2)H.2SO4.2H.2O.  Molecular  weight  780.42. 

The  neutral  sulphate  of  an  alkaloid  obtained  from  the  bark  of  several  species  of  cin- 
chona. Quinidine  sulphate  should  be  kept  in  well-stoppered  bottles  in  a dark  place. 

Nat.  Ord. — Rubiacese. 

Preparation. — The  mother-liquors  from  the  recrystallization  of  quinine  sulphate 
yield  on  concentration  a crop  of  crystals  consisting  chiefly  of  this  salt,  which  is  purified 
by  treatment  with  animal  charcoal  and  by  recrystallizing  it.  On  adding  to  the  mother- 
liquors  a considerable  excess  of  ammonia,  cinchonine  will  be  precipitated  and  quinidine 
dissolved ; the  solution  deposits  the  alkaloid  quinidine,  together  with  impurities,  on  the 
addition  of  soda.  The  alkaloid  may  then  be  dissolved  in  dilute  sulphuric  acid,  and  the 
salt  purified  by  recrystallization.  Since  quinidine  enters  the  mother-liquors  containing 
the  amorphous  alkaloids,  and  is  precipitated  with  chinoidine,  it  may  be  prepared  from  the 
latter,  according  to  Hesse  (1868),  by  exhausting  it  with  ether,  converting  the  dissolved 
alkaloids  into  sulphates,  precipitating  quinine  and  cinchonidine  with  Rochelle  salt,  purify- 
ing the  filtrate  with  animal  charcoal,  and  precipitating  the  quinidine  with  potassium  iodide  ; 
the  alkaloid  is  then  liberated  by  ammonia,  combined  with  sulphuric  acid,  and  the  salt 
crystallized. 

Properties. — Quinidine  sulphate  (or  of  conquinine , according  to  Hesse)  crystal- 
lizes in  white,  silk)^  needles  which  resemble  those  of  the  quinine  salt,  but  are  less  matted 
and  do  not  effloresce  on  exposure  even  when  heated  to 
80°  C.  (176°  F.) ; when  heated  to  120°  C.  (248°  F.)  they 
part  with  their  water  of  crystallization  (4.6  per  cent.), 
and  on  ignition  are  entirely  consumed.  The  solution  in 
dilute  sulphuric  acid  shows  the  blue  fluorescence  of  qui- 
nine solutions,  and  strikes  an  emerald  green  color  on  the 
successive  addition  of  chlorine-water  and  ammonia,  and 
a red  color  on  the  successive  addition  of  chlorine-water, 
potassium  ferrocyanide,  and  ammonia.  The  salt  has 
also,  like  the  corresponding  quinine  salt,  a very  bitter 
taste  and  a neutral  reaction.  It  dissolves  at  10°  C.  (50° 

F.)  in  108  parts  (Hesse),  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  in  100  parts 
(U.  S.),  98  parts  (Kerner),  and  at  the  boiling-point  in  7 
parts  of  water ; at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  ( U.  S.)  also  in  8 parts 
and  very  soluble  in  boiling,  alcohol,  and  in  14  parts  of 
chloroform.  The  salt  is  freely  soluble  in  hot  alcohol,  but 
is  nearly  insoluble  in  ether.  The  chloroform  solution  on 
evaporation  leaves  the  salt  in  an  amorphous  state,  and  on  exposure  to  diffused  day- 
light gradually  acquires  a green  color,  but  the  alkaloid  is  not  perceptibly  affected  thereby 
(Hesse,  1879).  The  aqueous  solution  yields  with  barium  chloride  a white  precipitate 
which  is  insoluble  in  hydrochloric  acid;  with  potassium  ferrocyanide  golden-yellow 
prisms  or  a yellow  crystalline  precipitate  ; and  with  potassium  iodide  from  neutral  solu- 
tion, a white,  and  from  acid  solution  a reddish-yellow,  crystalline  precipitate.  When  a 
drop  of  the  solution  is  mixed  with  a drop  of  solution  of  potassium  sulphocyanate,  the 
microscope  jeveals  groups  of  radiating  feathery  crystals ; this  quinidine  sulphocyanate 
requires  1477  parts  of  water  for  solution.  (For  the  characteristics  of  the  alkaloid  see 
page  490). 

Tests. — When  heated  on  platinum-foil  the  salt  should  burn  without  leaving  any  resi- 


Fig.  237. 


Quinidine  Sulphate  with  KSCy  : 
microscopic  crystals. 


1344 


QUINTNA. 


due.  Neither  sulphuric  nor  nitric  acid  should  impart  any  color  to  the  dry  salt.  The 
thalleioquin  test  is  applied  by  the  Pharmacopoeia  as  follows  : “ On  treating  10  Cc.  of  an 
aqueous  solution  (about  1 in  1600)  of  the  salt  with  2 drops  of  bromine-water,  and  then 
with  an  excess  of  ammonia-water,  the  liquid  will  acquire  an  emerald-green  color.  With 
proper  adjustment  of  the  reagents,  more  dilute  solutions  will  show  a paler  tint,  while 
more  concentrated  ones  will  acquire  a deeper  color  or  deposit  a green  precipitate.”  De 
Vrij’s  (1878)  test  is  applied  as  follows  : A cold  saturated,  aqueous  solution  of  the  salt 
yields  a white  precipitate  with  potassium  iodide  test-solution  (difference  from  quinine  j 
sulphate) ; dissolved  in  50  Gm.  of  hot  water,  and  0.5  Gm.  potassium  iodide  added,  a sandy  ; 
crystalline  precipitate  must  fall,  and  after  some  hours  the  mother-liquor,  on  being  tested  ! 
with  ammonia,  should  not  produce  an  appreciable  precipitate.  “ Quinidine  sulphate  should  j 
not  impart  more  than  a faintly  yellowish  tint  to  concentrated  sulphuric  acid  (limit  of 
readily  carbonizable,  organic  impurities),  nor  produce  a red  color  with  nitric  acid  (differ- 
ence from  morphine).  If  a small  quantity  of  ammonia-water  be  added  to  3 Cc.  of  an  | 
aqueous  solution  of  the  salt  saturated  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  a white  precipitate  (quinidine) 
will  be  produced,  which  requires  more  than  30  Cc.  of  ammonia  or  more  than  thirty  times 
its  weight  of  ether  to  dissolve  it  (absence  of  more  than  small  proportions  of  other  cin- 
chona alkaloids).” — U.  S. 

Allied  Salts. — Quinidine  bisulphas,  Acid  quinidine  sulphate,  C20H24N2O2.H2SO4.4H2O ; mol. 
weight  493.  It  is  obtained  by  dissolving  the  sulphate  in  sufficient  diluted  sulphuric  acid, 
and  evaporating.  It  forms  long  colorless  prisms  of  an  asbestos-like  appearance,  soluble  in  8.7 
parts  of  water  at  10°  C.  (50°  F.)  and  losing  14.57  per  cent,  of  water  at  120°  C.  (248°  F.). 

Quinidine  hydriodas,  C20H24N2O2HI.  It  is  obtained  by  double  decomposition  of  neutral  solu- 
tions of  quinidine  sulphate  and  potassium  iodide  as  a white  crystalline  powder,  or  from  warm  and 
somewdiat  diluted  solutions  in  colorless  scaly  prisms.  It  is  slightly  soluble  in  alcohol  and  in  hot 
water,  and  requires  at  10°  C.  (50°  F.)  1270  part,  of  water  for  solution.  The  salt  is  anhydrous 
and  contains  28.09  per  cent,  of  iodine. 

Quinidine  bihydriodas,  C20II24N2O2(HI)2.3H2O.  It  is  prepared  like  the  preceding  salt,  using 
however,  a warm  acidulated  solution  of  quinidine  sulphate.  It  forms  an  orange-colored  crystal-  ’ 
line  powder  or  glossy  golden-yellow  prisms,  turns  brown-yellow  at  120°  C.  (248°  F.)  from  loss  of 
water,  which  is  absorbed  again  on  exposure  to  moist  air,  and  is  soluble  in  90  parts  of  cold  water, 
and  more  freely  soluble  in  alcohol  and  in  hot  water.  The  salt  contains  8.5  per  cent,  of  water  and 
43.77  per  cent,  of  iodine. 

Action  and  Uses. — As  an  antiperiodic  in  malarial  affections , and  as  an  antipyretic 
in  fever  generally,  quinidine  sulphate  is  equal  to  quinine  sulphate,  and  may  be  used  in 
similar  doses.  It  has  been  thought  less  apt  to  disagree  with  the  stomach  and  to  cause 
unpleasant  nervous  symptoms  (Peacock)  ; on  the  other  hand,  “ the  greatest  drawback  to  ! 
its  use,  especially  with  typhoid  patients,  is  the  subsequent  vomiting  which  often  occurs.”  < 
Striimpell  ( Practitioner , xxiii.  128)  makes  this  statement,  but  admits  that  it  is  not  apt  ; 
to  occasion  other  disorders,  especially  of  the  nervous  system.  < 

QUININA,  U. , S'. —Quinine. 

Chininum. — Quinine , Fr. ; Chinin , G. 

Formula  G20H24N2O2.3H2O.  Molecular  weight  377.22. 

An  alkaloid  obtained  from  the  bark  of  various  species  of  Cinchona.  Quinine  should  be 
kept  in  well-stoppered  bottles  in  a dark  place. — U.  S. 

Preparation. — On  precipitating  a solution  of  quinine  sulphate  in  acidulated  water 
with  an  alkali,  a curdy,  amorphous,  white  precipitate  is  obtained,  consisting  of  the  anhy- 
drous alkaloid,  which  if  kept  under  the  liquid  is  gradually  changed  to  the  crystalline 
hydrate  of  the  above  formula.  It  requires  to  be  washed  with  distilled  water  and  dried 
at  a low  temperature.  The  same  hydrate  may  also  be  obtained  from  the  solution  of  the 
alkaloid  in  diluted  alcohol  by  crystallizing  at  a low  temperature,  while  at  30°  C.  (86°  F.) 
silky  needles  of  anhydrous  quinine  are  separated  (Hesse).  On  concentrating  a solution 
of  quinine  in  ammonia-water  the  hydrate  crystallizes.  The  precipitation  of  quinine  should 
be  effected  without  heat,  and  only  a slight  excess  of  ammonia  should  be  used  to  prevent 
loss  of  the  alkaloid. 

Properties. — Hydrated  quinine  forms  long,  colorless,  silky  needles,  or  more  fre- 
quently a white  crystalline  powder ; the  Pharmacopoeia  describes  it  also  as  flaky  and 
amorphous.  In  dry  air  the  crystals  become  opaque,  and  when  kept  over  sulphuric  acid 
it  readily  parts  with  2H20  (9.5  per  cent.),  but  very  slowly  with  the  remaining  4.8  per 
cent,  of  water  of  crystallization.  The  alkaloid,  like  its  salts,  is  inodorous,  and  has  a per- 
sistently bitter  taste,  which,  owing  to  its  sparing  solubility,  is  slowly  developed.  The 


Q U IN  I NjE  BISULPHAS. 


1345 


powder  and  its  solutions  in  water  and  alcohol  have  an  alkaline  reaction.  The  hydrate 
melts  at  a temperature  of  57°  C.  (135°  F.)  ; on  continuing  and  slowly  increasing  the 
heat  to  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  it  loses  a part  of  its  water  of  crystallization  (about  90  per 
cent.),  and  at  125°  C.  (257°  F.)  becomes  anhydrous,  turning  solid,  and  melting  again  at 
173°  C.  (343.4°  F.)  : at  a higher  heat  it  burns  slowly,  without  leaving  any  residue.  Anhy- 
drous quinine  requires  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  1960  parts  of  water  for  solution,  but  the  hydrate 
dissolves  at  15°  C.  in  1670  parts  ( U.  S .),  at  20°  C.  (68°  F.)  in  1428  parts,  and  at  the  boil- 
ing-point in  760  parts,  of  water ; these  solutions  on  being  evaporated  between  60°  and  80° 
C.  (140°  and  176°  F.)  separate  the  hydrate  in  the  form  of  oily  drops.  According  to  Reg- 
nauld,  quinine  is  soluble  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  in  1.134  parts  of  absolute  alcohol,  in  1.93 
parts  of  chloroform,  and  in  22.63  parts  (16  to  25.5  parts,  Hesse)  of  ether.  It  is  soluble 
in  6 parts  of  cold  and  in  2 parts  of  boiling  alcohol,  in  about  200  parts  of  glycerin,  in  5 
parts  of  chloroform,  and  in  23  parts  of  ether  (£Z  S.  PS)  ; dissolves  in  carbon  disulphide, 
dilute  acids,  and  in  fixed  and  volatile  oils ; also  in  benzin  and  benzene ; the  latter  solution 
leaves  on  spontaneous  evaporation  a crystalline  compound  of  quinine  and  benzene,  which 
is  decomposed  at  a moderate  heat.  The  solutions  turn  polarized  light  to  the  left. 

Quinine  is  a strong  base,  neutralizes  the  strongest  acids,  forming  crystallizable  salts, 
which,  if  soluble,  have  an  intensely  bitter  taste,  and  displaces  ammonia  from  its  salts  on 
being  heated  with  their  solutions.  The  acidulated  solutions  show  a vivid  blue  fluores- 
cence, which  disappears  on  the  addition  of  hydrochloric,  hydriodic,  and  sulphocyanic  acids 
and  of  thiosulphates.  On  passing  chlorine  gas  into  water  containing  quinine  in  suspen- 
sion, the  liquid  acquires  a reddish  color,  changing  to  violet  and  dark-red,  and  then  becomes 
lighter,  with  the  separation  of  a red  compound  (Pelletier).  On  treating  10  Cc.  of  an 
aqueous,  acidulated  solution  (about  1 in  1500)  of  quinine  with  2 drops  of  bromine-water 
(or  chlorine-water),  and  then  with  an  excess  of  ammonia-water,  the  liquid  will  acquire  an 
emerald-green  color.  With  proper  adjustment  of  the  reagents  more  dilute  solutions  will 
show  a paler  tint,  while  more  concentrated  ones  will  acquire  a deeper  color  or  deposit  a 
green  precipitate.  The  emerald-green  is  due  to  the  production  of  tlialleioquin  or  tlialleio- 
chin  (Brandes),  the  color  being  observable  in  a solution  containing  -g-oVfr  Par^  °f  quinine ; 
on  carefully  neutralizing  the  liquid  the  color  changes  to  blue,  and  with  an  excess  of  acid 
to  purplish  or  red ; the  addition  of  an  excess  of  ammonia  restores  the  green  color.  If 
to  the  quinine  solution  be  added  chlorine-water,  then  potassium  ferrocyanide,  and  finally 
ammonia,  a deep-red  color  is  produced. 

Quinine  heated  with  glycerin  to  about  190°  C.  (374°  F.)  is  converted  into  the  isomeric 
base  quiniciiie , which  was  discovered  by  Pasteur  (1853),  and  may  be  obtained  from  most 
acid  quinine  salts  by  heating  them  to  about  130°  C.  (266°  F.)  ; the  salts  of  this  base  are 
readily  crystallizable,  are  colored  green  by  chlorine-water  and  ammonia,  and  yield  with 
hypochlorites  white  precipitates  which  are  turned  green  by  ammonia. 

Tests. — For  the  detection  of  other  cinchona  alkaloids  the  Pharmacopoeia  has  adopted 
Kerner’s  test : “ If  2 Gm.  of  quinine  be  mixed,  in  a small  mortar,  with  1 Gm.  of  ammo- 
nium sulphate  and  10  Cc.  of  distilled  water,  the  mixture  thoroughly  dried  on  a water- 
bath,  the  residue  (which  should  be  strictly  neutral  to  test-paper)  agitated  with  20  Cc. 
of  water,  then  allowed  to  macerate  for  half  an  hour  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  with  occasional 
agitation,  and  then  filtered  through  a pellet  of  glass-wool,  5 Cc.  of  the  filtrate,  transferred 
to  a test-tube  and  gently  mixed,  without  shaking,  with  7 Cc.  of  ammonia-water  (specific 
gravity  0.960),  should  produce  a clear  liquid.  If  the  temperature  of  maceration  was  16° 
C.  (60.8°  F.),  7.5  Cc.  of  ammonia-water  may  be  added;  if  17°  C.  (62.8°  F.),  8 Cc.  (In 
each  case  a clear  liquid  indicates  the  absence  of  more  than  small  proportions  of  other 
cinchona  alkaloids.)  Quinine  should  not  impart  more  than  a faintly  yellowish  tint  to 
concentrated  sulphuric  acid  (limit  of  readily  carbonizable,  organic  impurities),  nor  pro- 
duce a red  color  with  nitric  acid  (difference  from  morphine).” — U.  S.  (See  Quinine 
Sulphas.) 


QUININE  BISULPHAS,  U.  8. — Quinine  Bisulphate. 

Chininum  bisulfuricum,  Quininse  sulphas  acidus. — Acid  quinine  sulphate , E. ; Sulfate 
acide  ( Bisulfate ) de  quinine , Fr.  ; Saures  Chininsulfat , Chininbisulfat , G. 

Formula  C20H24N2O2H2SO4.7H2O.  Molecular  weight  546.88. 

Quinine  bisulphate  should  be  kept  in  well-stoppered  bottles  in  a dark  place. — TJ.  S. 
Preparation. — Mix  100  grains  of  ordinary  quinine  sulphate  with  about  500  grains 
(9  fluidrachms)  of  warm  distilled  water;  add  to  the  mixture  115  grains  of  official 
diluted  sulphuric  acid  ; filter  if  necessary,  and  set  aside  in  a moderately  warm  place  to 
85 


1346 


Q U IN  IN JE  HYDRO  BROM AS. 


crystallize  ; dry  the  crystals  over  sulphuric  acid  at  a temperature  of  10°  or  15°  C. 
(50°-59°  F.),  and  preserve  them  in  a well-stoppered  bottle  in  a cool  and  dark  place.  The 
yield  is  125  grains. 

A solution  of  the  salt  may  be  prepared  extemporaneously  by  dissolving  8 grains  of 
quinine  sulphate  in  water  with  the  aid  of  9 minims  (or  9J  grains)  of  diluted  sulphuric 
acid  ; the  solution  will  contain  10  grains  of  acid  quinine  sulphate. 

Properties. — The  salt  crystallizes  in  colorless  rhombic  prisms  or  plates,  or  it  forms 
small  needles  which  effloresce  and  become  yellowish  on  exposure,  are  free  from  odor,  and 
have  a strong  bitter  taste  and  a decided  acid  reaction.  At  25°  C.  (77°  F,)  it  loses  water, 
the  crystals  become  opaque  ; but  the  last  molecule  of  water  is  not  expelled  until  heated  to 
about  100°  C.  (212°  F.).  The  salt  fuses  in  a glass  tube  at  80°  C.  (176°  F.)  (P.  G.),  but 
heated  in  the  air  it  melts  near  135°  C.  (275°  F.),  and  is  converted  into  acid  quinicine  sul- 
phate, which  is  easily  soluble  in  alcohol  and  water,  its  solution  in  dilute  sulphuric  acid  being 
yellow  without  any  blue  fluorescence,  and  crystallizes  in  long  yellow  prisms.  According 
to  Hesse  (1873),  acid  quinine  sulphate  dissolves  at  13°  C.  (55.4°  F.)  in  11  parts,  and  at 
22°  C.  (71.6°  F.)  in  8 parts,  of  water,  10  parts  of  water  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  U.  S.,  but 
it  requires  more  alcohol  (32  parts,  U.  S.)  for  solution,  and  is  very  soluble  in  both  liquids 
heated  to  boiling.  The  solutions  have  a decided  blue  fluorescence,  which  may  be  observed' 
in  water  containing  part  of  the  salt.  “ On  treating  10  Cc.  of  an  aqueous  solution 

(about  1 in  1000)  of  the  salt  with  2 drops  of  bromine  test-solution,  and  then  with  an 
excess  of  ammonia- wTater,  the  liquid  will  acquire  an  emerald-green  color.  With  proper 
readjustment  of  the  reagents,  more  dilute  solutions  will  show  a paler  tint,  while  more 
concentrated  ones  will  acquire  a deeper  color  or  throw  down  a green  precipitate.” — U.  S. 
The  aqueous  solution  behaves  with  ammonia-water  and  barium  chloride  like  quinine  sul- 
phate, giving  white  precipitates  with  both  reagents,  of  which  the  former  is  easily  soluble 
in  excess  of  ammonia  and  twenty  times  its  weight  of  ether,  and  the  latter  is  insoluble 
in  hydrochloric  acid. 

The  pharmacopoeial  salt  should  not  be  confounded  with  the  true  quinine  bisulphate, 
C20H24N2O2(H2SO4)2.7H2O,  which  is  obtained  from  100  grains  of  quinine  sulphate  and  350  : 

grains  of  diluted  sulphuric  acid,  the  solution  being  crystallized  over  sulphuric  acid.  It 
contains  19.5  per  cent,  of  water,  readily  acquires  a brown-red  color  on  exposure  to  light,  , 
is  easily  soluble  in  water  with  a strong  blue  fluorescence,  and  separates  from  boiling 
alcohol  on  cooling  as  a gelatinous  mass,  which  on  drying  forms  minute  prisms. 

Tests. — The  salt  should  not  impart  more  than  a slight  yellowish  tint  to  sulphuric 
acid  (absence  -of  foreign  organic  matters),  nor  to  nitric  acid  (morphine,  brucine,  etc.). 
Quinine  bisulphate  should  not  impart  more  than  a faintly  j^ellowish  tint  to  concentrated 
sulphuric  acid  (limit  of  foreign  organic  matters).  If  1 Gm.  of  the  salt  be  dried  at  a 
temperature  of  100°  C.  (212°  F.),  until  it  ceases  to  lose  weight,  the  remainder,  cooled  in 
a desiccator,  should  weigh  not  less  than  0.77  Gm.  (corresponding  to  7 molecules,  or  23  <: 

(22.98)  per  cent,  of  water  of  crystallization). — U.  P.  G.  The  aqueous  solution  should  not 

be  precipitated  by  silver  nitrate  (absence  of  hydrochlorate).  The  absence  of  an  excess 
of  other  cinchona  alkaloids  is  determined  by  Kerner’s  test,  as  follows  : “ If  2 Gm.  of  the 
salt,  previously  dried  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.),  be  agitated  with  16  Cc.  of  distilled  w’ater,  the 
mixture  made  exactly  neutral  to  test-paper  with  ammonia-water,  then  brought  to  the 
volume  of  20  Cc.,  and  macerated  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  for  half  an  hour,  upon  proceeding 
further,  as  directed  for  the  corresponding  test  under  quinine  (see  Quinina),  the  results 
given  for  the  latter  should  be  obtained.” — V.  S.  Or.  “ an  intimate  mixture  of  1 Gm.of 
the  salt  and  of  0.5  Gm.  of  ammonia-water  is  well  dried  on  a water-bath,  the  residue 
treated  with  10  Cc.  of  distilled  water,  and  further  tested  with  ammonia-water,  as  directed 
for  Kerner’s  test.” — P.  G. 

Uses. — When  quinine  sulphate  is  given  in  solution,  it  is  generally  converted  into  the 
bisulphate  by  the  addition  of  aromatic  sulphuric  acid.  The  dose  of  the  two  salts  is  prac- 
tically the  same. 

QUININ^E  HYDROBROMAS,  U.  S,— Quinine  Hydrobromate. 

Chininum  liydrobromicum,  s.  hydrobromatum. — Bromhydrate  de  quinine,  Fr. ; Chinin- 
hydrobromat , G. 

Formula  C20H24N2O2HBr.H2O.  Molecular  weight  422.06. 

Quinine  hydrobromate  should  be  kept  in  well-stoppered  bottles  in  a dark  place. — U.  S. 

Preparation. — This  salt  is  prepared  by  double  decomposition  of  quinine  sulphate 
with  barium  bromide.  A mixture  of  100  grains  of  quinine  sulphate  and  1400  grains  (3 


Q UININJE  HYDRO  BR  OH  AS. 


1347 


fluidounces)  of  water  is  heated  to  boiling,  and  gradually  mixed  with  a solution  of  34 
grains  of  barium  bromide  in  225  grains  (4  fluidounce)  of  water ; the  precipitate  is  allowed 
to  settle,  and  the  clear  hot  liquid  is  tested  for  barium  salt  with  a cold  solution  of  quinine 
sulphate  prepared  without  the  aid  of  additional  acid,  and  if  free  from  barium  is  filtered 
and  evaporated  to  crystallize.  The  yield  is  about  100  grains.  Owing  to  the  insolubility 
of  barium  chloride  and  the  ready  solubility  of  barium  bromide  in  absolute  alcohol,  Boille 
(1874)  recommends  dissolving  both  the  barium  and  the  quinine  salts  in  strong  alcohol ; 
the  solutions  are  then  mixed,  taking  care  that  the  quinine  sulphate  is  in  slight  excess ; 
after  filtering  water  is  added,  the  alcohol  distilled  off,  the  liquid  cooled,  filtered  from  any 
quinine  sulphate  which  may  crystallize  out,  and  evaporated  to  crystallize.  If  the  salt  be 
not  quite  white,  it  should  be  recrystallized  from  water. 

The  salt  may  also  be  prepared  by  dissolving  quinine  in  warm  diluted  hydrobromic  acid 
until  the  acid  reaction  has  completely  disappeared.  Or,  according  to  Hager,  100  parts  of 
quinine  sulphate  and  27.5  parts  of  potassium  bromide  are  well  triturated  with  100  parts 
of  water ; the  mixture  is  moderately  heated,  mixed  with  400  parts  ol  alcohol,  the  whole 
digested  for  an  hour,  filtered  while  warm  from  the  precipitated  potassium  sulphate,  and 
crystallized.  Leger’s  process  (1880)  is  similar  to  this. 

Properties. — Quinine  hydrobromate  is  in  “ white,  light,  silky  needles,  odorless,  and 
having  a very  bitter  taste.  The  salt  is  liable  to  lose  water  on  exposure  to  warm  or  dry 
air.  Soluble  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  in  54  parts  of  water  and  in  0.6  part  of  alcohol ; very 
soluble  in  boiling  water  and  in  boiling  alcohol ; also  soluble  in  6 parts  of  ether  and  in  12 
parts  of  chloroform.  When  heated  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  the  salt  loses  its  water  of  crys- 
tallization (4.25  per  cent.).  At  152°  C.  (305.6°  F.)  it  begins  to  fuse,  and  becomes  a 
syrupy  liquid  at  200°  C.  (392°  F.).  Upon  ignition  it  is  slowly  consumed,  leaving  no 
residue.  The  salt  is  neutral  or  has  a faintly  alkaline  reaction  upon  litmus-paper.  An 
aqueous  solution,  when  acidulated  with  sulphuric  acid,  has  a vivid,  blue  fluorescence.  On 
treating  10  Cc.  of  an  aqueous  solution  (about  1 in  1300)  with  2 drops  of  bromine  test- 
solution,  and  then  with  an  excess  of  ammonia-water,  the  liquid  will  acquire  an  emerald- 
green  color.  With  proper  adjustment  of  the  reagents  more  dilute  solutions  will  show  a 
paler  tint,  while  more  concentrated  ones  will  acquire  a deeper  color  or  throw  down  a 
green  precipitate.  Ammonia-water  added  to  the  aqueous  solution  throws  down  a white 
precipitate  soluble  in  an  excess  of  ammonia-water,  and  also  soluble  in  about  twenty  times  its 
weight  of  ether.  On  precipitating  a saturated  aqueous  solution  of  the  salt  with  sodium 
hydroxide  test-solution,  filtering,  supersaturating  the  filtrate  with  acetic  acid,  adding  chlo- 
roform and  a little  chlorine-water,  and  shaking,  the  chloroform  will  separate  with  a yellow 
color.  If  1 Gm.  of  the  salt  be  dried  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  until  it  ceases  to  lose  weight, 
the  residue  should  not  weigh  less  than  0.957  Gm.  (corresponding  to  1 molecule,  or  4.25 
per  cent,  of  water  of  crystallization)/’ — U.  S. 

Composition. — The  u.  S.  Pharmacopoeia  formula  requires  4.25  water,  18.89  bro- 
mine, and  76.61  per  cent,  of  quinine.  Boille  (1874)  found  of  these  constituents  respect- 
ively 4.80,  18.26,  and  75.20  per  cent.,  which  closely  corresponds  with  the  official  formula 
C20H24N2O2HBr.H2O. 

Tests. — “ Quinine  hydrobromate  should  not  impart  more  than  a faintly  yellowish  tint 
to  concentrated  sulphuric  acid  (limit  of  readily  carbonizable  organic  impurities),  nor  pro- 
duce a red  color  with  nitric  acid  (difference  from  morphine).  If  3 Gm.  of  the  salt  (which 
must  have  been  previously  ascertained  to  be  strictly  neutral  or  been  rendered  so)  be 
mixed,  in  a small  capsule,  with  1.2  Gm.  of  crystallized  sodium  sulphate  and  30  Cc.  of 
water,  the  mixture  thoroughly  dried  on  a water-bath,  the  residue  agitated  with  30  Cc.  of 
water,  and  then  allowed  to  macerate  for  half  an  hour  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  with  occasional 
agitation,  upon  proceeding  further  as  directed  under  quinine  (see  Quininia)  the  results 
there  given  should  be  obtained.” — TJ.  S. 

Allied  Salts. — Quinine  hvdrobromas  acidus.  Acid  quinine  hydrobromate,  C20II24N.2O2- 
(HBr)2.3H20.  Quinine  sulphate  is  dissolved  in  water  with  the  aid  of  sufficient  dilute  sulphuric 
acid,  completely  precipitated  with  a solution  of  barium  bromide,  avoiding  an  excess  of  the  latter, 
the  solution  filtered  from  the  barium  sulphate,  and  evaporated  to  crystallize.  This  salt  is  soluble 
in  6 parts  of  water  and  is  freely  soluble  in  alcohol. 

Qui  xixa:  bromas.  Quinine  bromate,  C20H24N2O2.IIBrO3,  is  prepared  by  C A.  Cameron  (1882) 
either  by  neutralizing  quinine  with  bromic  acid  or  by  precipitating  barium  bromate  with  quinine 
sulphate.  It  forms  asbestos-like  masses  consisting  of  long  needles,  dissolves  in  250  parts  of  cold 
water,  freely  in  warm  water,  in  diluted  acids,  and  in  alcoho1 ; it  is  not  decomposed  at  a moderate 
heat,  but  detonates  in  contact  with  strong  sulphuric  acid. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  acid  quinine  hydrobromate  was  introduced  into  prac- 


1348 


QUININE  II YDR 0 CHL ORA S. 


tice,  especially  for  hypodermic  use,  because  it  is  more  soluble  in  water  than  the  acid  sul- 
phate, and  probably  less  liable  to  produce  abscess.  This  quality  becomes  important  when 
quinine  cannot  be  given  by  the  mouth  or  rectum.  Only  in  large  doses  can  the  bromine 
in  its  composition  exert  any  sedative  influence  (Squibb).  Thomas  ascribes  to  it  a seda- 
tive action  of  the  circulation  ( Loud . Med.  Record , Dec.  1885)  ; and  it  may,  perhaps,  be 
admitted  to  possess  special  virtues  in  nervous  disorders  with  debility,  in  the  typhoid  state. 
exhaustion  from  dyspepsia , chronic  discharges , and  the  like  ( Centralh . f.  Ther.,  iii.  165). 
Its  dose  is  about  the  same  as  that  of  the  sulphate. 


QUININE  HYDROCHLORAS,  U.  S.,  Br, — Quinine  Hydrochlorate. 

Chininum  hydrochloricum , P.  G. ; Muriate . of  quinine , F.  ; Chlorhydrate  de  quinine , 
Fr.  ; Chininhydrochlorat , Salzsaures  Chinin , G. 

Formula  C20H24N2O2HC1.2H2O.  Molecular  weight  395.63. 

Quinine  hydrochlorate  should  be  kept  in  well-stoppered  bottles  in  a dark  place. — U S. 

Preparation. — This  salt  is  best  obtained  by  dissolving  quinine  in  warm  diluted 
hydrochloric  acid  until  the  solution  is  neutral,  and  crystallizing.  On  a small  scale  it 
may  be  prepared  by  double  decomposition.  A solution  of  100  grains  of  quinine  sulphate 
in  hot  distilled  water  is  precipitated  by  a solution  of  28  grains  of  crystallized  barium 
chloride  or  of  15  grains  of  anhydrous  calcium  chloride  ; the  filtrate  is  tested  with  quinine 
sulphate,  evaporated  to  dryness,  redissolved  in  diluted  alcohol  to  separate  calcium  sul- 
phate, and  evaporated  to  crystallize.  Rother  (1883)  recommends  for  the  same  amount 
of  sulphate  131  grains  of  sodium  chloride  and  350  grains  (71  fluidrachms)  of  alcohol; 
after  sufficient  digestion  the  filtrate  is  mixed  with  water  and  evaporated.  The  yield  is 
90  grains. 

Properties. — Quinine  hydrochlorate  forms  colorless  needles,  appearing  white  in  mass, 
usually  united  to  stellate  groups,  of  a silky  lustre,  inodorous,  and  having  a very  bitter 
taste  and  a neutral  (or  faintly  alkaline,  U.  A.)  reaction.  The  salt  is  permanent  in  the  air 
at  low  temperatures,  but  at  a moderate  heat  effloresces,  parting  with  a portion  of  its 
water,  and  at  120°  C.  (248°  F.)  loses  all  the  water  of  crystallization,  amounting  to  9.08 
per  cent. ; and  when  the  heat  is  raised  to  about  156°  C.  (312.8°  F.)  the  salt  begins  to 
melt,  but  is  not  fully  melted  until  the  temperature  reaches  190°  C.  (374°  F.).  On  igni- 
tion it  is  slowly  consumed,  leaving  no  residue.  The  crystallized  salt  requires  at  10°  C. 
(50°  F.)  35  parts  of  water,  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  34  parts  of  water  or  3 parts  of  alcohol 
( U.  S.,  P.  6r.)  for  solution  ; it  is  also  soluble  in  1 part  of  boiling  water  and  very  freely 
soluble  in  boiling  alcohol.  The  anhydrous  salt  forms  a permanent  solution  with  1 part 
of  chloroform,  and  differs  in  this  respect  from  the  concentrated  solutions  of  the  hydro- 
chlorates of  cinchonine  and  cinchonidine,  which  after  a short  time  become  thick  and 
crystalline,  owing  to  the  formation  of  more  sparingly  soluble  compounds  of  the  salts  with 
the  solvent  (Hesse,  1873).  The  solution  in  alcohol  or  water  is  free  from  fluorescence, 
and  the  slight  one  appearing  on  dilution  is  removed  by  .the  addition  of  sulphuric  or  other 
acid.  The  hydrochlorate  being  much  more  soluble  in  water  than  quinine  sulphate, 
the  latter  salt  is  precipitated  in  needles  on  adding  to  a rather  concentrated  solution  of 
the  former  a solution  of  a neutral  sulphate.  Quinine  hydrochlorate  on  being  exposed  to 
the  light  gradually  acquires  a yellowish  color,  and  should  therefore  be  kept  in  a dark 
place.  Its  solution  likewise  becomes  yellowish  or  brownish  on  keeping ; with  bromine- 
or  chlorine-water  and  ammonia  it  yields  emerald-green  thalleioquin  ; with  ammonia  a 
white  precipitate  is  produced,  soluble  in  an  excess  of  ammonia  and  in  20  parts  of  ether; 
and  with  silver  nitrate  a white  precipitate  is  obtained  soluble  in  ammonia,  but  insoluble 
in  nitric  acid. 

Tests. — The  salt  on  being  ignited  upon  platinum-foil  should  burn  without  leaving  any 
residue  (absence  of  inorganic  matter).  Heated  with  milk  of  lime  or  with  dilute  potassa 
solution,  the  odor  of  ammonia  should  not  be  given  off  (ammonium  salts).  “If  1 Gm.  of 
the  salt  be  dried  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  until  it  ceases  to  lose  weight,  the  residue  should 
not  weigh  less  than  0.9  Gm.  (corresponding  to  2 molecules,  or  9 per  cent,  of  water  of 
crystallization).  Quinine  hydrochlorate  should  not  impart  more  than  a faintly  yellowish 
tint  to  concentrated  sulphuric  acid  (limit  of  readily  carbonizable,  organic  impurities),  nor 
produce  a red  color  with  nitric  acid  (difference  from  morphine).  The  aqueous  solution 
of  the  salt  should  not  be  rendered  turbid  by  diluted  sulphuric  acid  (absence  of  barium), 
and  not  be  rendered  more  than  slightly  turbid  by  barium  chloride  test-solution  (limit 
of  sulphate).  If  3 Gm.  of  the  salt  (which  must  have  been  previously  ascertained  to 
be  strictly  neutral  or  been  rendered  so)  be  mixed,  in  a small  capsule,  with  1.5  Gm.  of 


QUIN  IN JE  SULPHAS. 


1349 


crystallized  sodium  sulphate  and  30  Cc.  of  water,  the  mixture  thoroughly  dried  on  a 
water-bath,  the  residue  agitated  with  30  Cc.  of  water,  and  then  allowed  to  macerate  for 
half  an  hour  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  with  occasional  agitation,  upon  proceeding  further 
as  directed  under  Quinine  (see  Quinina)  the  results  there  given  should  be  obtained.” 

-u.  s. 

Allied  Salts. — Quinine  hydrochloras  acidus.  Acid  quinine  hydrochlorate , is  either  amor- 
phous or  in  white  or  yellowish  crystalline  masses,  which  are  very  soluble  in  water  and  readily 
darkened  by  light. 

Quinix/E  iodas.  Quinine  iodate , C20H24N2O2.HIO3,  according  to  C.  A.  Cameron  (1882)  is  best 
prepared  by  digesting  freshly-precipitated  quinine  in  a molecule  of  iodic  acid  previously  dis- 
solved in  10  parts  of  warm  water ; the  soft  mass  should  be  evaporated  at  15.5°  C.  (60°  F.)  and 
dried  over  sulphuric  acid.  The  salt  is  in  minute  white  pearly  needles,  is  readily  soluble  in 
alcohol,  soluble  in  700  parts  of  cold  water,  and  is  not  decomposed  by  boiling  water. 

Quinine  hydriodas.  Acid  quinine  hydriodate , C20H24N2O2(HI)2.5H2O.  This  salt  crystallizes 
from  a warm  acidulated  solution  of  quinine  on  the  addition  of  potassium  iodide.  It  forms  glossy 
transparent  prisms  or  scales,  becomes  opaque  at  30°  C.  (86°  F.),  melts  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  in  its 
water  of  crystallization,  and  becomes  completely  anhydrous  at  120°  C.  (248°  F.) ; when  exposed 
to  a damp  atmosphere  the  anhydrous  salt  combines  again  with  2H20  (Hesse,  1865). 

Action  and  Uses. — Quinine  hydrochlorate  was  early  made  official  by  the  Dublin 
Pharmacopoeia,  and  Neligan  (1854)  remarked  of  it,  “ It  is  preferred  by  many  prac- 
titioners to  the  disulphate,  but  is  much  more  expensive,  and  the  dose  is  the  same.”  In 
1855,  Briquet,  in  his  great  work  on  Cinchona , said  of  it,  “ Being  very  liable  to  change 
by  keeping,  it  cannot  be  depended  upon,  so  that  with  good  reason  it  is  entirely  disused.” 
In  the  same  year  Trousseau  and  Pidoux  mentioned  the  muriate  along  with  several  other 
salts  as  being  inferior  to  the  sulphates.  In  1857,  Pereira’s  Materia  Meclica  said  only 
that  “it  is  employed  in  the  preparation  of  the  quinine  valerianate.”  In  1864,  Guibert 
merely  stated  that  “ German  physicians  set  great  store  by  this  medicine ; ” and  one  of 
the  latest  German  writers,  Bernatzik,  stated  that  its  uses  are  those  of  quinine  sul- 
phate. and  referred  to  its  solubility  and  the  relatively  large  proportion  of  quinine  it 
contains.  According  to  this  authority,  the  dose  should  be  one-sixth  less  than  that  of 
the  sulphate,  100  parts  by  weight  of  quinine  muriate  containing  as  much  quinine  as 
121  parts  of  the  sulphate.  Binz  refers  to  pure  amorphous  quinine  hydrochlorate  as 
being  especially  adapted  for  subcutaneous  injection,  its  advantages  being  not  only  that 
it  is  “ very  cheap,”  but  that  it  dissolves  in  an  equal  weight  of  water,  and  as  a rule  does 
not  give  rise  to  abscesses.  Probably  it  was  for  use  in  hypodermic  injections  that  the 
salt  was  made  official.  MM.  Beurmann  and  Villejean,  after  an  exhaustive  review  of 
the  subject,  historically  and  clinically,  concluded  that  the  neutral  liydrochlorate  is  the 
only  salt  of  quinine  that  is  free  from  the  objections  that  lie  against  the  other  quinine 
salts  for  hypodermic  use.  It  is  soluble  in  two-thirds  of  its  weight  of  water  at  ordinary 
temperatures,  its  solution  does  not  undergo  change,  and  it  neither  occasions  pain  nor 
causes  inflammation  ( Bull . de  Therap .,  cxiv.  193,  261).  It  has  also  been  given  by  intra- 
venous injection  (Bacelli,  Med.  News,  lvii.  314).  From  Gm.  0.12-0.24  (gr.  ij — iv)  may 
be  stated  as  the  average  dose  administered  in  this  manner. 

QUININE  SULPHAS,  77.  S.,  Br. — Quinine  Sulphate. 

Quinise  sulphas  ; Chininum  sulfuricum , P.  G. ; Sulfas  quinicus. — Sulphate  of  quinia,  E. ; 
Sulfate  de  quinine , Fr. ; Chininsulfat , Schwefelsaures  Chinin , G. 

Formula  (C20H24N2O2)2H2SO4.7H2O.  Molecular  weight  870.22. 

Quinine  sulphate  should  be  kept  in  well-stoppered  bottles  in  a dark  place. — U.  S. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Yellow  Cinchona-bark,  in  coarse  powder,  1 pound  ; Hydro- 
chloric Acid  3 fluidounces ; Distilled  Water  a sufficiency ; Solution  of  Soda,  4 pints ; 
Diluted  Sulphuric  Acid  a sufficiency.  Dilute  the  hydrochloric  acid  with  10  pints  of  the 
water.  Place  the  cinchona-bark  in  a porcelain  basin,  and  add  to  it  as  much  of  the  diluted 
hydrochloric  acid  as  will  render  it  thoroughly  moist.  After  maceration  with  occasional 
stirring  for  twenty-four  hours  place  the  bark  in  a displacement  apparatus,  and  percolate 
with  the  diluted  hydrochloric  acid  until  the  solution  which  drops  through  is  nearly  desti- 
tute of  bitter  taste.  Into  this  liquid  pour  the  solution  of  soda,  agitate  well,  let  the  pre- 
cipitate completely  subside,  decant  the  supernatant  fluid,  collect  the  precipitate  on  a filter, 
and  wash  it  with  cold  distilled  water  until  the  washings  cease  to  have  color.  Transfer 
the  precipitate  to  a porcelain  dish  containing  a pint  of  distilled  water,  and,  applying  to 
this  the  heat  of  a water-bath,  gradually  add  diluted  sulphuric  acid  until  very  nearly  the 
whole  of  the  precipitate  has  been  dissolved  and  a neutral  liquid  has  been  obtained. 


1350 


QUIN  IN 'JE  SULPHAS. 


Filter  the  solution  while  hot  through  paper,  wash  the  filter  with  boiling  distilled  water, 
concentrate  till  a film  forms  on  the  surface  of  the  solution,  and  set  it  aside  to  crystallize. 
The  crystals  should  be  dried  on  filtering-paper  without  the  application  of  heat. — Hr.  1867. 

The  preparation  of  quinine  sulphate  from  cinchona-bark  involves  the  following  pro- 
cesses : 1,  extraction  of  the  alkaloids  in  the  form  of  a compound  soluble  in  cold  water  ; 2, 
precipitation  of  the  alkaloids  ; and,  3,  combination  with  sulphuric  acid  and  separation  of 
the  various  sulphates  from  one  another  and  from  coloring  matter  and  other  foreign  prin- 
ciples. The  alkaloids  are  easily  extracted  from  the  bark  by  water  acidulated  with  hydro- 
chloric or  sulphuric  acid,  and  are  then  in  solution  as  hydrochlorates  or  sulphates,  if  an 
elevated  temperature  has  been  resorted  to,  derivatives  of  tannin  and  other  principles  will 
separate  on  cooling,  and  must  either  be  filtered  off  or  converted  into  insoluble  compounds, 
which  takes  place  on  the  addition  of  lime  ; this  decomposes  likewise  the  salts  of  the  alka- 
loids, calcium  chloride  or  sulphate  being  formed,  while  the  alkaloids  are  precipitated, 
together  with  the  excess  of  lime  employed,  and  the  kinic  acid  remains  in  solution  as  cal- 
cium kinate.  The  alkaloids  are  taken  up  from  the  lime  precipitate  by  boiling  alcohol,  and 
left  behind  in  an  impure  condition  on  the  evaporation  of  the  solvent.  Soda  cannot  be 
profitably  employed  for  precipitating  the  acid  decoction  unless  it  has  been  allowed  to  cool 
and  filtered  from  the  precipitate;  or,  still  better,  the  bark  is  exhausted  in  the  cold  and 
the  acid  infusion  rendered  very  slightly  alkaline  by  caustic  soda.  The  precipitate  thus 
obtained  will  be  less  deeply  colored  than  the  residue  left  on  the  evaporation  of  the  alcohol, 
as  described  before,  and  consists  mainly  of  the  mixed  cinchona  alkaloids.  As  obtained 
by  one  or  the  other  process,  the  impure  alkaloids  are  mixed  with  water,  heat  is  applied, 
and  sulphuric  acid  is  dropped  in,  care  being  taken  to  leave  a portion  of  the  alkaloids  and 
much  coloring  matter  undissolved,  which  are  removed  by  filtration  ; the  hot  filtrate  may 
be  treated  with  purified  animal  charcoal  to  remove  remaining  coloring  matter,  or  even 
without  this  treatment  will  deposit  crystals  of  the  desired  salt.  If,  however,  sufficient 
sulphuric  acid  has  been  used  to  dissolve  the  whole  of  the  impure  alkaloids,  the  excess  of 
the  former  has  formed  freely  soluble  sulphates,  which  would  not  crystallize  on  cooling. 
It  is  then  necessary  to  remove  not  only  coloring  matter,  but  likewise  the  excess  of  sul- 
phuric acid,  which  is  accomplished  by  treatment  with  unpurified  animal  charcoal,  the  cal- 
careous matter  of  which  combines  with  the  excess  of  the  sulphuric  acid,  and  on  cooling 
the  filtrate  the  same  sulphate  will  crystallize  that  is  obtained  by  the  action  of  an  insuffi- 
cient quantity  of  the  acid  upon  an  excess  of  the  impure  alkaloids.  The  crystals  of  the 
first  crop  are  neither  sufficiently  white  nor  free  from  other  cinchona  alkaloids,  and  require 
to  be  purified  by  three  or  four  recrystallizations,  when  quinine  sulphate,  being  the  least 
soluble  of  the  corresponding  salts  of  the  cinchona  alkaloids,  will  crystallize  first,  leaving 
the  coloring  matter  in  the  mother-liquor  with  the  remaining  alkaloids. 

Numerous  modifications  of  the  processes  described  have  been  proposed,  and  are  proba- 
bly used  by  the  manufacturers  of  cinchona  alkaloids ; and  since  it  is  often  more  econom- 
ical, in  the  manufacture  of  quinine,  not  to  use  a costly  bark  rich  in  this  alkaloid,  but  rather 
a cheaper  one  containing  a smaller  percentage  of  quinine,  and  in  addition  thereto  a larger 
proportion  of  the  other  alkaloids,  it  is  obvious  that  modifications  of  the  processes  will  not 
unfrequently  be  found  necessary.  Of  late  years  the  so-called  cuprea-bark  (see  page  485) 
has  been  extensively  employed. 

Instead  of  exhausting  the  bark  with  acidulated  water,  the  natural  combination  of  the 
alkaloids  is  sometimes  broken  up  by  a base,  for  which  purpose  ammonia,  soda,  and  lime 
have  been  proposed.  The  two  former  remove  tannin,  kinic  acid,  cinchona-red,  and  other 
colored  compounds,  but  at  the  same  time  dissolve  a portion  of  quinine  and  the  other  alka- 
loids. By  digesting  the  bark  with  lime-water  some  of  the  principles  mentioned  are  dis- 
solved, and  the  liquid  may  be  utilized  for  preparing  kinic  acid ; or  milk  of  lime  may  be 
mixed  with  the  powdered  bark,  and  the  mixture  digested  for  some  time,  dried,  and  pow- 
dered. It  contains  then  the  calcium  compounds  of  kinic  acid,  etc.,  which  are  nearly  in- 
soluble in  strong  alcohol  and  methylic  and  amylic  alcohol,  either  of  which  solvents  may 
be  used  in  extracting  the  liberated  alkaloids,  which  are  then  converted  into  sulphates  and 
purified  as  stated  above. 

Properties. — Quinine  sulphate  crystallizes  in  thin,  snow-white,  flexible,  inodorous, 
monoclinic  needles,  which  form  a loose,  voluminous,  and  easily  compressible  mass,  and  have 
a silky  lustre  or  frequently  are  somewhat  opaque  in  consequence  of  superficial  efflores- 
cence. The  salt  has  a persistent  and  purely  bitter  taste,  and  does  not  affect  moist  litmus- 
paper.  A drop  of  a concentrated  solution  evaporated  on  the  slide  of  a microscope  crystal- 
lizes in  stellate  groups  of  thin  needles  or  spikes.  It  effloresces  rapidly  on  exposure  to 
warm  air,  but  absorbs  moisture  in  damp  air,  and  when  kept  over  sulphuric  acid  loses  all 


Q UININjE  S ULPHAS. 


1351 


Fig.  238. 


Quinine  Sulphate : microscopic 
crystals. 


except  2 molecules  of  water ; the'  same  loss  occurs  in  dry  air  at  a temperature  of  20°  to 
60°  C.  (122°-174°  F.).  The  remaining  water,  amounting  to  4.60  per  cent,  of  the 
effloresced  salt,  is  expelled  at  and  above  100°  C.  (212°  F.),  and  rapidly  absorbed  again 
in  a damp  atmosphere  at  ordinary  temperatures.  Quinine  sulphate  should  be  kept  in 
well-stoppered  bottles,  but  when  these  are  occasionally  opened  loss  of  water  is  unavoidable, 
and  the  salt  becomes  correspondingly  richer  in  quinine.  In  the  sunlight  it  acquires  a 
yellowish  color.  At  160°  C.  (320°  F.)  it  becomes  phos- 
phorescent on  trituration,  and  at  a red  heat  it  is  decom- 
posed, and  burns  slowly  without  leaving  any  residue.  It 
requires,  according  to  Van  Heijningen,  740  (according  to 
Jobst  and  Hesse,  788)  parts  of  water  for  solution  at  10° 

C.  (50°  F.),  and  at  the  boiling  temperature  about  30  parts. 

The  pharmacopoeias  state  it  to  be  soluble  at  15°  C.  (59° 

F.)  in  740  parts  ( U.  Si),  800  parts  ( P . G .),  of  water  and 
in  65  parts  of  alcohol  ( U S.),  and  at  the  boiling  temper- 
ature in  about  30  parts  ( U.  S.),  in  25  parts  (P.  G .)  of 
water,  and  in  3 parts  ( U S.),  in  6 parts  ( P . G .)  of  alco- 
hol. It  dissolves  in  40  parts  of  glycerin,  680  parts  of 
chloroform,  and  is  nearly  insoluble  in  ether.  When 
anhydrous  it  requires  1000  parts  of  chloroform  for  solu- 
tion. Ammonium  chloride,  potassium  nitrate,  and  some 
other  salts  increase  its  solubility  in  water,  while  it 
is  less  soluble  in  the  presence  of  sodium  sulphate  and 
magnesium  sulphate  or  neutral  tartrates.  The  solubility  in  water  is  very  materially 
increased  by  most  acids,  owing  to  the  formation  of  soluble  acid  salts.  The  solution  in 
water  is  not  fluorescent,  but  on  the  addition  of  sulphuric  acid  the  characteristic  blue 
fluorescence  of  quinine  salts  is  observed.  On  adding  to  its  solution  an  excess  of  chlo- 
rine-water or  2 drops  of  solution  of  bromine,  followed  by  ammonia,  an  emerald-green 
color  is  produced ; and  if,  after  chlorine-water,  potassium  ferrocyanide  is  added,  and 
then  ammonia,  the  solution  turns  of  a deep-red.  (See  Quinina.)  Dissolved  in  distilled 
water,  it  yields  white  precipitates  with  barium  nitrate  or  chloride  and  with  ammonia, 
the  former  precipitate  being  insoluble  in  hydrochloric  acid,  while  the  latter  is  easily 
soluble  in  an  excess  of  the  reagent  and  in  about  twenty  times  its  weight  of  ether.  It 
is  likewise  precipitated  by  potassa  and  soda,  their  carbonates  and  bicarbonates,  by  lime- 
water,  tannin,  and  the  other  general  reagents  for  alkaloids,  and  it  is  incompatible  in  solu- 
tion with  acetates,  tartrates,  and  with  liquids  containing  iodine  (potassium  iodide  and 
ferric  salts).  Its  solution  in  water  or  dilute  acid  remains  unchanged  when  kept  in  the 
dark,  but  exposed  to  sunlight  it  turns  yellowish  and  brown.  Fliickiger  (1878)  named 
this  brown  product  quiniretin,  and  found  it  to  be  of  the  same  composition  as  quinine,  but 
destitute  of  alkaline  reaction,  and,  though  soluble  in  acids,  it  is  not  able  to  neutralize  them, 
and  is  not  precipitated  by  tannin  ; it  has,  however,  a bitter  and  somewhat  aromatic  taste. 

Composition. — The  formula  of  crystallized  quinine  sulphate  has  been  given 
above ; it  is  the  one  recognized  by  the  pharmacopoeias,  and  represents  (in  100  parts)  74.31 
anhydrous  quinine,  11.24  sulphuric  acid,  and  14.45  water.  It  is  diquinine  sulphate,  but 
was  formerly  often  described  as  neutral  or  basic  quinine  sulphate.  On  drying  the  salt 

completely  above  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  the  residue,  cooled  in 
a desiccator,  weighs  theoretically  85.55  per  cent.,  and  is 
required  to  weigh  not  less  than  85.6  (Pr.),  85  (P.  G.), 
83.8  ( U.  S.)  parts.  The  salt  crystallizes  from  water  with 
8H.,0  = 16.18  per  cent.,  which  is  the  water  permitted  by 
the  IT.  S.  P.,  although  the  formula  with  714*0  has  been 
adopted  as  the  correct  one.  But,  according  to  Kerner 
(1880),  16  per  cent,  of  water  indicates  superficially  adher- 
ing moisture,  and,  according  to  Jobst  and  Hesse,  the  salt 
should  contain  at  most  7!H*0,  or  15.3  per  cent.  After 
complete  efflorescence  the  formula  is  (C20H24N2O2)2H2- 
S04.2H20,  and  a salt  of  this  composition  will  crystallize 
from  alcohol  in  white  permanent  needles ; it  contains 
82.87  per  cent,  quinine,  12.23  per  cent.  H2S04,  and  4.6 
per  cent,  water  of  crystallization. 

Tests. — In  examining  the  purity  of  quinine  sul- 
phate the  following  tests  are  of  service : A drop  of  an  aqueous  solution  of  quinine  salt 


Quinine  Sulphate  with  KSCy : micro- 
scopic granules. 


1352 


QUININE  SULPHAS. 


mixed  with  a drop  of  a solution  of  potassium  sulphocyanate  will  at  once  become  turbid, 
and  under  the  microscope  show  a large  number  of  minute  globules,  which  even  after  a 
day  are  not  aggregated  into  groups  or  crystals.  According  to  Hesse  (1878),  quinine 
sulphocyanate  is  insoluble  in  solution  of  potassium  sulphocyanate,  and  more  soluble  in 
water  than  quinine  sulphate ; the  microscopic  test  must  therefore  vary  with  the  quanti- 
ties used  ; he  also  observed  that  the  minute  globules  are  usually  followed  in  a few  minutes 
by  many-rayed  stellate  groups  of  needles.  The  test  proposed  by  Liebig  depends  upon 
the  greater  solubility  of  quinine  in  ether  as  compared  with  quinidine,  cinchonine,  and 
cinchonidine ; modified  by  Hesse  (1878)  it  is  very  delicate : 0.5  Gm.  of  quinine  sulphate 
is  well  agitated  with  10  Cc.  of  water,  warmed  to  between  50°  and  60°  C.  (122°  and 
140°  F.)  ; after  ten  minutes  the  cooled  liquid  is  filtered  and  5 Cc.  of  it  are  slowly 
agitated  with  1 Cc.  (1  Gm.,  Rump)  of  ether  and  5 drops  of  ammonia-water;  after  the 
separation  of  the  ether  both  strata  should  be  clear,  even  after  the  expiration  of  two  hours. 

The  Br.  P.  directs  to  recrystallize  100  gr.  of  the  salt  from  5 or  6 oz.  boiling  water  with 
3 or  4 drops  diluted  sulphuric  acid.  Use  the  mother-liquor  for  the  test  just  described, 
and  weigh  any  separated  alkaloid,  as  cinchonidine  or  cinchonine.  Shake  the  recrystallized 
salt  with  ether  1 fl.  oz.  and  ammonia  l oz.,  and  add  ethereal  liquid  from  preceding  test; 
now  shake  with  caustic  soda  (10  per  cent.)  solution  1 fl.  oz.,  adding  water  if  solid  matter 
separates ; wash  with  ether,  heat  aqueous  liquid  to  boiling,  neutralize  exactly  with  sul- 
phuric acid,  and  cool,  when  cupreine  sulphate  will  crystallize,  resulting  from  the  decompo- 
sition of  homoquinine  if  present.  Quinidine  is  separated  as  hydriodate  from  concentrated 
quinine  solution  by  potassium  iodide  in  the  presence  of  a little  alcohol. 

Another  test  proposed  by  Hesse  has  been  adopted  by  the  German  Pharmacopoeia,  as 
follows:  1 Gm.  of  quinine  sulphate,  on  being  warmed  for  a short  time  to  between  40° 
and  50°  C.  (104°  and  122°  F.)  with  7 Cc.  of  a mixture  composed  of  2 volumes  of  chlo- 
roform and  1 volume  of  absolute  alcohol,  should  yield  a perfect  solution,  which  should 
remain  clear  after  cooling.  Sulphates  of  other  cinchona  alkaloids  and  various  organic  and 
inorganic  impurities  are  thus  detected.  The  following  is  a similar  but  less  delicate  test : 

20  Cc.  of  absolute  alcohol  should  dissolve  0.2  Gm.  of  the  salt,  forming  a clear  liquid. 

“ Quinine  sulphate  should  not  impart  more  than  a faintly  yellowish  tint  to  concentrated 
sulphuric  acid  (limit  of  readily  carbonizable,  organic  impurities)  nor  produce  a red  color  1 
with  nitric  acid  (difference  from  morphine).  If  1 Gm.  of  the  salt  be  dried  at  a tempera- 
ture of  115°  C.  (239°  F.)  until  it  ceases  to  lose  weight,  the  residue  should  not  weigh  less 
than  0.838  Gm.  (absence  of  more  than  8 molecules,  or  16.18  per  cent,  of  water).  If  2 
Gm.  of  the  salt  (which  must  have  been  previously  ascertained  to  be  strictly  neutral  to 
litmus-paper  or  been  rendered  so)  be  dried,  as  far  as  possible,  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.),  the 
residue  then  agitated  with  20  Cc.  of  water,  and  the  mixture  macerated  for  half  an  hour  1 
at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  with  occasional  agitation,  upon  proceeding  further  as  directed  under 
Quinine  (see  Quinina)  the  results  there  given  should  be  obtained  (Kerner’s  test).” — U.  S. 

Medical  History. — A knowledge  of  the  curative  powers  of  Peruvian  bark  was  not  ■■ 
due  to  sagacious  prescience  or  scientific  investigation,  but  to  the  simple  facts  that  in  the  } 
early  part  of  the  seventeenth  century  the  Spanish  conquerors  of  Peru  learned  its  virtues 
from  the  native  Indians,  and  that  the  countess  of  Chinchon  was  cured  by  it  of  a tertian 
fever.  On  her  return  to  Spain  she  employed  it  on  her  lord’s  estates  to  cure  the  peasantry 
of  the  same  disease  (Markham).  But  learned  bigotry  condemned  what  unenlightened 
savages  had  discovered,  and  one  religious  body  zealously  spurned  a priceless  boon  that 
had  been  introduced  by  another  whose  form  of  faith  they  derided.  About  the  middle  of 
the  seventeenth  century  a large  quantity  of  the  bark  was  brought  from  America,  and  at 
a great  council  of  the  Jesuits  at  Rome  was  distributed  to  its  members,  who  afterward 
carried  it  all  over  Europe  ; hence  it  was  called  Jesuits’  bark.  But  it  had  still  to  encounter 
the  sneers  of  the  learned  and  the  hate  of  bigots,  and  it  was  not  until  an  English  quack 
succeeded  in  curing  by  its  means  men  of  high  rank  that  fashion  broke  down  the  preju- 
dices which  reason  could  not  remove.  Thenceforth  cinchona  was  everywhere  applied 
to  the  cure  of  malarial  fevers  and  fevers  of  a typhoid  type,  as  well  as  to  various  other 
diseases. 

The  discovery  of  the  active  principles  of  cinchona,  imperfectly  made  by  Duncan  in 
1803,  was  perfected  by  Pelletier  and  Caventou  in  1820,  as  fas  as  regards  quinine  and  cin- 
chonine. Quinidine  was  discovered  partially  in  1833,  but  perfectly  isolated  in  1852.  The 
introduction  into  practice  of  quinine  and  cinchonine  dates  from  1820-21. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  earlier  experimenters  with  quinine  upon  the  lower  animals 
and  upon  man  concluded  that  in  small  doses  it  acts  as  a stimulant  of  the  nervous  and  cir- 
culatory systems,  and  in  large  doses  as  a direct  sedative,  producing  general  muscular  and 


Q UININJE  SULPHAS. 


1353 


cardiac  debility,  and,  when  poisonous  doses  are  given,  great  acceleration  of  the  pulse, 
coma,  and  stertorous  breathing.  After  death  the  lungs  and  brain  were  found  engorged 
with  blood.  Later  investigations  have  confirmed  these  statements,  but  have  also  fur- 
nished minuter  and  more  extensive  information,  according  to  which  the  action  of  quinine 
upon  the  economy  may  be  described. 

Whatever  be  the  physiological  explanation  of  the  fact,  there  can  be  no  doubt  that  in 
the  greater  number  of  experiments  on  man  the  pulse-rate  falls  under  the  full  influence 
of  quinine,  whether  in  health  or  in  disease,  and  that  at  the  same  time  its  force  is  dimin- 
ished. This  action  is  generally  believed  to  be  attended  with  a fall  of  temperature  as  its 
necessary  consequence ; but,  although  such  is  probably  the  case,  it  occurs  by  no  means 
uniformly  unless  the  dose  be  very  large.  In  the  latter  case  it  appears  to  depend  in  part 
and  on  the  one  hand  upon  the  slowness,  and  on  the  other  hand  upon  the  hurried  and 
inefficient  character,  of  the  respiratory  movements,  as  well  as  upon  a like  action  of  the 
heart.  (Compare  See  et  Rochefontaine,  Archives  gen.,  Mars,  1883,  p.  374.)  In  moderate 
doses  quinine  appears  to  stimulate  the  trophic  centres  and  quicken  tissue-change,  but  in 
larger  doses  it  has  the  opposite  effect.  This  conclusion  is  founded  partly  on  the  diminu- 
tion of  solids  in  the  urine  under  the  influence  of  quinine.  The  important  sphygmographic 
experiments  of  Dr.  Mary  Putnam  Jacobi  upon  a human  brain  exposed  by  an  opening  in 
the  cranium  confirms  these  statements,  and  prove  that  “ by  a tonic  dose  of  quinine  (5 
grains)  the  energy  of  the  cardiac  systole  is  increased ; the  tonus  and  elasticity  of  the 
walls  of  the  cerebral  vessels  are  also  increased,  so  that  the  blood  is  forced  rapidly  on 
through  the  capillaries,  thus  diminishing  the  resistance  to  the  cardiac  systole.  More 
blood  is  admitted  to  the  brain,  but  the  intercranial  pressure  is  lessened.”  But  after  a 
sedative  dose  of  20  grains  there  resulted  “ diminished  energy  of  the  cardiac  contractions 
unfilled  cerebral  arteries,  and  great  diminution  in  intercranial  pressure.” 

Numerous  observations  concur  in  rendering  it  probable  that  in  very  large  doses  quinine 
may  lessen  the  coagulability  of  the  blood , and  that  this  effect  is  sometimes  produced  by 
medicinal  doses.  Cutler  and  Bradford  (1878)  found  that  after  a large  dose  of  quinine 
sulphate  there  is  in  health  a slight  diminution  of  the  red,  and  a marked  increase  in  the 
number  of  the  white,  corpuscles.  Hare  (1886)  found  that  in  experiments  upon  himself 
10  grains  of  quinine  daily  in  divided  doses  caused  a very  considerable  increase  in  the  red 
blood-corpuscles.  Binz  and  Ransonne  state  that  while  quinine  does  not  alter  the  shape  or 
size  of  the  red  corpuscles,  it  lessens  their  power  of  absorbing  oxygen  (Husemann,  etc., 
Die  Pflanzenstojfe,  1884,  p.  1439). 

When  5 or  6 grains  of  quinine  sulphate  are  taken  by  an  adult  man  at  a single  dose, 
or  two  or  three  times  that  quantity  in  the  course  of  twelve  hours,  there  is  apt  to  be  some 
heaviness  and  confusion  of  thought,  headache,  buzzing  in  the  ears,  vertigo,  and  unstead- 
iness of  gait.  Larger  doses  occasion,  in  addition,  a sense  of  fulness,  tension,  and  pulsa- 
tion in  the  head  ; the  face  becomes  suffused  and  animated  ; the  eyes  are  bright ; epistaxis 
sometmes  occurs;  the  patient  is  restless  and  agitated,  and  complains  of  muscular  twitch- 
ing in  the  limbs.  After  several  hours  these  phenomena  are  followed  by  some  degree  of 
exhaustion  and  a disposition  to  sleep,  with  slight  torpor  and  muscular  debility.  If  as 
much  as  30  grains  are  given  daily  for  several  days,  in  divided  doses,  there  may  be 
observed  great  depression,  apathy,  somnolence,  unsteadiness  of  gait,  impaired  sight  and 
hearing,  and  dilatation  of  the  pupils ; the  general  sensibility  is  obtuse  and  the  limbs 
tremulous.  If,  finally,  the  dose  has  been  excessive,  complete  loss  of  consciousness  may 
occur,  the  sight  and  hearing  fail,  the  skin  loses  its  sensibility,  and  the  limbs  their  power 
of  motion. 

On  the  respiratory  organs  the  primary  action  of  quinine  is  stimulant,  slightly  increasing 
the  rate  of  breathing.  Poisonous  doses  occasion  dyspnoea  and  noisy  respiration,  which  is 
also  jerking,  interrupted,  retarded,  and  finally  arrested,  death  taking  place  with  symptoms 
of  asphyxia.  In  some  cases  the  sputa  have  been  bloody. 

On  the  digestive  organs  small  doses  of  quinine,  as  of  all  pure  bitters,  stimulate  the 
appetite  and  digestion,  but  in  large  and  continued  doses  it  irritates  the  stomach  and 
confines  the  bowels  at  first,  although  it  may  afterward  cause  diarrhoea. 

The  fact  that  when  quinine  cures  intermittent  fever  it  also  contracts  the  spleen , if  that 
organ  is  enlarged,  is  a familiar  one. 

Quinine  is  excreted  with  the  urine  to  the  extent  of  at  least  one-half  and  increases  its 
amount.  When  given  to  a parturient  woman  it  is  found  in  the  urine  of  the  new-born 
child.  It  sometimes  occasions  irritation  of  the  urinary  passages,  causing  in  different 
cases  sexual  excitement,  micturition,  retention  of  urine,  and  even  haematuria.  If  irrita- 
tion already  exists  in  the  bladder,  quinine  usually  appeases  it  ( Tlierap . Monatsh.,  iii. 


1354 


QUININE  SULPHAS. 


128).  These  facts  tend  to  explain  the  occasional  occurrence  of  abortion  or  premature 
labor  in  females  taking  very  large  doses  of  quinine  for  the  cure  of  periodical  fevers,  par- 
ticularly when  the  tendency  to  the  accident  is  increased  by  general  ill-health  or  malarial 
cachexia.  There  is  more  reason  to  apprehend  abortion  or  premature  labor  from  such 
causes  than  from  the  use  of  moderate  doses  of  quinine,  which  rather  tend  to  counteract 
their  injurious  action.  When,  under  such  bad  conditions  of  health,  labor  sets  in  with 
feeble  and  ineffectual  pains,  quinine  in  moderate  doses  will,  like  other  spinal  nerve-stim- 
ulants, often  render  the  contractions  of  the  uterus  more  energetic  and  efficient.  That 
there  is  no  tendency  in  quinine  to  bring  on  contractions  in  the  gravid  and  quiescent 
uterus  has  been  proved  by  abundant  experience.  Burdel  reports  several  cases  which 
demonstrate  that  enormous  doses  of  it  can  be  taken  without  injury  to  the  embryo  and 
without  shortening  the  duration  of  pregnancy,  and  is  supported  by  experiments  upon 
animals  with  young  and  near  the  end  of  gestation.  Among  the  latter  must  be  included 
the  case  of  a gravid  cat  that  died  of  direct  poisoning  by  quinine  without  a sign  of  labor. 
A summary  of  the  clinical  experience  bearing  upon  this  subject  has  been  prepared  by 
Atkinson  (Amer.  Jour.  Med.  Sci.,  Feb.  1890,  p.  139),  and  it  substantially  justifies  the 
conclusions  now  stated. 

Quinine  and  cinchonine  both  occasionally  produce  erythematous  or  papular  eruptions 
(urticaria,  roseola)  of  the  skin,  which  sometimes  are  followed  by  exfoliation  of  the  cuti- 
cle. A very  large  number  of  cases  illustrative  of  this  subject  have  been  published  in 
the  last  few  years. 

Quinine  in  excessive  doses  may  be  dangerous,  and  even  fatal  to  life.  A description  of 
the  symptoms  in  one  or  two  cases  will  include  all  that  is  important.  In  nine  hours  after 
3 drachms  of  quinine  sulphate  had  been  taken  at  a single  dose  the  patient,  an  adult 
male,  lay  motionless  and  pallid,  the  fingers  were  bluish  and  cold,  and  the  whole  surface 
cool,  the  respiration  slow  and  suspirious,  the  pulse  regular  but  slow,  and  hardly  percept- 
ible, the  pupils  widely  dilated,  the  sight  and  hearing  almost  extinct,  and  the  voice 
extremely  feeble  ; the  thirst  was  great,  the  tongue  pale  and  moist,  and  the  breath  cold. 
In  another  case  (Yorhies,  Trans.  Amer.  Med.  Assoc.,  xxx.  411)  a woman  threatened  with 
a congestive  chill  took  more  than  1300  grains  of  quinine  within  three  days.  On  the 
second  day  she  became  blind.  A week  afterward  she  was  extremely  weak,  almost  pulse- 
less, and  barely  able  to  comprehend  questions,  but  her  hearing  was  only  slightly  impaired. 
The  face  was  pale,  the  conjunctiva  anaesthetic,  and  there  was  no  perception  of  light. 
The  interior  of  the  eyes  showed  no  trace  of  blood-vessels.  Three  months  later  the  con- 
dition of  the  eyes  was  nearly  stationary,  but  the  health  in  other  respects  was  good.  The 
ocular  phenomena  in  this  case  are  similar  to  those  observed  by  Griming,  Michel,  and 
others.  It  is  said  that  no  case  of  permanent  blindness  from  quinine  has  been  recorded 
(. Edinb . Med.  Jour.,  xxvii.  942).  But  J.  Marion  Sims  has  related  one  concerning  a lady 
who  took  80  grains  in  a few  hours  (AT.  Y.  Med.  Gaz.,  Oct.  22,  1881).  A case  is  related 
by  Griming  ( Med . Record,  xviii.  608)  in  which  80  grains  of  quinine  produced  deafness 
and  blindness.  The  condition  of  the  eye  resembled  that  just  described,  and  vision  was 
not  fully  regained  for  several  months.  Others  have  been  published  by  Michel  and  by 
Knapp  (Amer.  Jour.  Med.  Sci.,  Oct.  1882,  p.  616;  Practitioner,  xlv.  125;  Amer.  Jour. 
Med.  Sci.,  Oct.  1890,  p.  398).  It  has  been  disputed  whether  the  deafness  due  to  quinine 
is  accompanied  by  an  anaemic  or  a congested  state  of  the  internal  ear  ( Boston  Med.  and 
Surg.  Jour.,  Mar.  1883,  p.  220),  and  the  highest  authority  is  upon  the  side  of  the 
latter  opinion.  It  seems  singular  that  the  drug  should  congest  the  ear  and  ansemiate 
the  eye.  It  indeed  has  been  alleged  that  the  eye  is  congested  primarily  by  the  medicine, 
but  of  this  statement  the  evidence  is  insufficient  (Boosa,  Med.  Record , xxiii.  145). 
Although  it  has  been  alleged  that  no  case  of  death  from  quinine  has  occurred  (Binz), 
sudden  death  was  observed  in  four  recorded  cases  of  typhoid  fever  treated  with  quinine 
(Hardy,  Archives  gen.,  Jan.  1883,  p.  114);  another  in  a case  of  pneumonia,  and  one  in 
remittent  fever  (Baldwin,  loc.  sup.  cit. ) ; two  cases  also  were  reported  by  Kinner  of  St. 
Louis  (Med.  News,  lii.  215).  One,  a child  of  eight  years,  died  from  taking  8 grains  of 
this  salt  in  two  doses  within  three  hours.  In  other  cases  partial  loss  of  hearing  or  of 
sight  has  followed  the  use  of  the  medicine,  and  lasted  for  several  weeks.  On  the  other 
hand,  enormous  doses  have  sometimes  been  used  without  any  serious  consequences.  (For 
further  illustration  see  Jour.  Amer.  Med.  Assoc.,  xiii.  433.) 

Sensible  physiological  effects  are  seldom  observed  when  the  dose  of  quinine  sulphate 
is  less  than  4 grains ; those  produced  by  a dose  of  6 grains  may  be  expected  in  about  an 
hour,  and  by  15  grains  in  about  a quarter  of  an  hour.  The  duration  of  the  sensible 
effects  is  in  the  direct  ratio  of  the  dose  administered ; those  from  6 to  8 grains  may  last 


QUIN  IN M SULPHAS. 


1355 


for  two  or  three  hours,  and  from  15  grains  for  four  or  five  hours.  Larger  doses  maintain 
their  action  for  a proportionately  longer  period. 

Other  things  being  equal,  the  functional  disturbance  is  of  shorter  duration  in  children 
than  in  adults,  but  in  old  age  they  are  apt  to  be  both  more  decided  and  more  prolonged. 
These  facts  depend  probably  upon  the  more  rapid  elimination  of  quinine  by  the  kidneys 
in  young  than  in  old  persons.  It  is  more  operative,  in  the  same  dose,  in  females  than  in 
males.  Burdel,  who  studied  the  action  on  the  new-born  child  of  the  milk  of  a woman 
who  was  taking  quinine  sulphate,  states  that  he  has  known  infants  to  be  fatally  poi- 
soned in  this  manner.  He  holds,  what  is  very  probable,  that  the  danger  is  greatest  when 
the  medicine  is  taken  upon  an  empty  stomach  and  during  the  first  four  or  five  months  of 
the  infant’s  life.  lie  adds  that  when  it  becomes  necessary  to  administer  quinine  soon 
after  delivery  the  injurious  effects  upon  the  child  may  be  prevented  by  giving  it  with  the 
meals,  and  by  emptying  the  mother’s  breast  artificially  three  hours  after  its  administra- 
tion. Neither  Dolan  nor  Bunge,  on  the  other  hand,  could  find  any  of  the  drug  in  the 
milk  of  a nursing  woman  who  was  taking  it  ( Practitioner , xxvi.  57  ; xxvii.  168). 

Like  many  other  medicines,  quinine  is  stimulant  in  small,  but  sedative  in  large  doses; 
but  it  differs  from  other  stimulants  in  the  duration  of  its  action,  which  is  long  sustained, 
and  entitles  it  to  be  called  a tonic  stimulant.  In  the  smallest  medicinal  doses  it  is  purely 
tonic,  in  larger  doses  stimulant,  and  in  the  largest  sedative,  acting  in  each  case  upon  the 
cerebro-spinal  nervous  system  and  through  the  ganglionic  nervous  system  upon  the 
heart.  It  possibly  also  modifies  the  vital  elements  of  the  blood,  in  large  doses  checking 
their  development.  It  appears,  therefore,  that  by  its  combined  influence  upon  the  ner- 
vous system  and  upon  the  blood  it  is  capable  of  restraining  all  the  processes  which 
develop  heat,  organic  changes,  and  muscular  motion. 

The  experiments  and  observations  made  during  the  last  century  gave  rise  to  a belief 
that  cinchona  had  a special  power  of  correcting  or  limiting  putrefaction  and  fermentation, 
and  hence  it  was  employed  as  a specific  remedy  for  all  diseases  in  which  these  processes 
were  conceived  to  be  taking  place  in  the  blood.  Among  them  were  the  continued  and 
periodical  fevers.  Modern  doctrines  regarding  these  diseases  involve  a similar  idea,  and 
the  efficacy  of  quinine  in  curing  them  is  attributed  to  its  power  of  destroying  and  disin- 
tegrating vibriones,  bacteria,  and  analogous  organisms.  It  is  in  fact  “ a powerful  anti- 
zymotic  ” (Binz).  1 part  of  quinine  dissolved  in  20,000  parts  of  water  will  in  a few 
minutes  begin  to  enfeeble  paramecise,  in  two  hours  will  destroy  their  vitality,  and  in  a 
few  hours  more  cause  their  disintegration.  Quinine  retards  or  arrests  the  alcoholic  and 
other  fermentative  processes,  including  putrefaction  and  certain  morbid  ferments.  This 
action  it  is  claimed  to  possess  upon  diphtherial  exudations  and  upon  the  sputa  of  pul- 
monary gangrene.  Gieseler  determined  that  fresh  muscle  could  be  preserved  in  a solu- 
tion of  4 of  1 per  cent,  of  quinine  sulphate,  and  Binz  that  such  a solution  exhibited  more 
power  of  preventing  the  formation  of  new  bacteria  than  in  destroying  those  already  exist- 
ing. It  appears  probable  that  no  amount  of  quinine  capable  of  destroying  micro-organ- 
isms in  the  blood  of  man  could  be  taken  by  him  without  endangering  life.  Such,  at 
least,  is  the  conclusion  of  Vulpian  and  Bochefontaine,  Baxter,  Binz,  Fickert,  and  others 
(Husemann,  Die  Pjlanzensloffe , 1884,  p.  1437). 

There  appears  to  be  some  difference  between  quinine  and  cinchonine  in  their  mode  of 
action.  Thus  the  latter  is  said  to  be  more  poisonous  to  frogs  and  dogs  than  the  former. 
In  man  also  cinchonine  sulphate  does  not  so  speedily  produce  buzzing  in  the  ears  and 
disordered  action,  but,  on  the  other  hand,  it  more  constantly  occasions,  and  in  smaller 
doses,  a peculiar  pain  and  sense  of  oppression  in  the  frontal  region,  distress  about  the 
praecordia,  subsultus  tendinum,  general  debility,  and  faintness. 

Malarial  Diseases. — The  antizymotic  doctrine  above  described  is  thought  to  be  sup- 
ported by  the  power  of  quinine  to  prevent  and  cure  malarial  diseases,  which  are  assumed 
to  depend  directly  upon  the  introduction  into  the  blood  either  of  certain  low  and 
extremely  minute  organisms,  or  of  a specific  poison  which  accumulates  in  the  system  and 
tends  to  destroy  its  albuminous  elements  with  the  production  of  fever.  This  doctrine  is 
at  present  only  probable,  perhaps  only  hypothetical,  and  yet  none  other  so  well  explains 
the  fundamental  practical  rule  that  the  paroxysm  of  fever  is  not  so  much  directly  pre- 
vented by  the  primary  action  of  quinine,  whose  phenomena  are  evident,  as  it  is  by  the 
curative  operation  developed  hours  or  even  days  after  those  sensible  phenomena  have 
disappeared.  No  medicine  which  operates  simply  by  exalting  or  depressing  the  organic 
actions  so  distinctly  possesses  this  peculiarity,  which  is  difficult  to  comprehend  except 
upon  the  supposition  that  its  eliminative  or  antidotal  action,  and  not  its  dynamical  merely, 
;is  the  chief  agent  in  the  cure  of  miasmatic  diseases.  Moreover,  the  efficient  dose  of 

! 


1356 


QUININE  SULPHAS. 


quinine  in  these  diseases  bears  no  relation  to  the  sensible  effects  which  it  produces ; 
indeed,  in  all  simple  intermittents,  and  in  the  great  majority  of  other  forms  of  periodical 
fevers,  the  cure  is  effected  without  the  necessity  of  inducing  the  slightest  degree  of 
quinine  intoxication.  It  is  possible  that  in  addition  to  the  modes  of  action  here  alluded 
to  quinine  may  be  curative  of  malarial  diseases  by  directly  supplying  to  the  blood  that 
peculiar  constituent  upon  which  animal  fluorescence  depends,  and  which  is  found  to  be 
greatly  diminished  at  least  in  chronic  intermittent  fever,  and  to  regain  its  normal  propor- 
tion as  the  patient  renews  his  health  (Rhoads  and  Pepper,  Penna.  Hosp.  Pep.,  1868,  p. 
269  ; Binz,  Amer.  Jour,  of  Med.  Set.,  Oct.  1881,  p.  552).  While,  us  we  think,  the 
specific  antidotal  power  of  quinine  cannot  be  refused  the  chief  place  in  the  cure  of 
periodical  fevers,  we  must  not  lose  sight  of  the  fact  that  they  were  cured  from  the 
beginning  of  time  down  to  the  discovery  of  cinchona  by  a great  number  of  agents,  and 
they  continue  to  be  so  cured  even  in  cases  where  quinine  has  failed  of  its  expected  effect. 

It  is  equally  certain  that  periodicity,  and  not  malarial  periodicity,  is  the  essential  condi- 
tion of  its  curing  a number  of  diseases  which  assume  that  type,  as  is  more  fully  set 
forth  in  a subsequent  paragraph.  As  stated  elsewhere  (see.  Opium),  the  association  of 
opium  with  quinine  greatly  augments  its  antiperiodic  powers,  especially  in  the  acute 
forms  of  periodical  fevers. 

But  whether  the  salts  of  cinchona  act  by  modifying  the  powers  of  the  nervous  system 
or  as  antidotes  to  a material  morbific  cause,  they  are  efficient  in  'preventing  as  well  as  cur- 
ing periodical  fevers.  Their  power  has  been  tested  in  all  parts  of  the  world;  and  it  is 
now  certain  that  a person  under  the  impression  of  a dose  of  quinine  or  cinchonine,  even 
within  the  limits  of  sensible  cinchonism,  may  be  exposed  to  malarial  influences  without 
danger.  Indeed,  a dose  of  from  Gm.  0.12-0.30  (2  to  5 grains)  once  or  twice  a day  has 
been  found  sufficient  for  this  purpose.  (Compare  Graeser,  Tlierap.  Monatsh.  iii.  377). 

Formerly  the  notion  prevailed  that  in  order  to  render  the  treatment  even  of  simple 
periodical  fevers  efficient  the  gastro-intestinal  tube  should  be  thoroughly  cleansed  by 
emetics  and  cathartics,  and  that  sometimes  mercury  should  be  exhibited.  Experience  ; 
has  proved  that  these  methods,  founded  upon  theory  for  the  most  part,  are  generally 
unnecessary  and  sometimes  injurious,  the  conditions  they  are  intended  to  remove  depend- 
ing mainly  upon  the  malarial  poisoning  for  which  quinine  is  the  specific  cure.  It  may,  i 
as  a rule,  be  administered  without  preliminary  medication  in  the  dose  of  from  Gm.  ; 
0.30-0.50  (5  to  8 grains)  during  the  intermission  in  simple  intermittents.  The  result  of 
a careful  observation  of  different  methods  of  administering  the  medicine  has  been  clearly 
to  prove  that  the  antifebrile  influence  of  quinine  does  not  coincide  with  its  physiological 
operation  either  in  time  or  degree.  A period  of  at  least  twelve  hours  should,  if  possible,  ; 
intervene  between  the  last  dose  of  the  medicine  and  the  hour  of  the  expected  attack,  ( 
and  according  to  the  severity  of  the  paroxysms  the  dose  should  be  large  or  small,  single  j 
or  divided.  When  once  the  paroxysms  have  been  arrested,  the  medicine  should  be  sus-  \ 
pended  until  twenty-four  or  thirty-six  hours  before  the  seventh  day,  reckoning  from  * 
the  beginning  of  the  last  paroxysm,  when  it  should  be  repeated  in  the  original  dose,  j 
At  the  next  hebdomadal  period  it  should  be  prescribed  in  half  the  quantity,  and  still  fur- 
ther diminished  in  the  third  week.  In  congestive  intermittents,  while  it  may  be  necessary 
sometimes  to  employ  depletion,  evacuants,  and  revulsives  and  the  stimulant  shock  of  the 
cold  dash,  these  and  all  other  agents  are  comparatively  worthless  without  quinine.  It 
must  be  administered  to  the  extent  of  not  less  than  Gm.  2 (30  grains)  during  the  inter- 
mission— by  the  mouth  preferably,  but  if  this  cannot  be,  by  the  rectum,  or  hypoder- 
mically, or  even  intravenously — by  the  two  latter  methods  in  smaller  doses.  Immediate 
effects  are  not  to  be  expected.  * 

Haemorrhagic  malarial  fever  is  alleged  by  Dr.  McDaniel  to  be  by  no  means  as  amen- 
able to  the  treatment  by  quinine  as  other  malarial  fevers.  From  a large  basis  of  obser- 
vation by  himself  and  others  he  draws  the  conclusion,  “that  quinine  is  not  only  not  the 
effective  and  reliable  remedy  as  is  now  widely  taught,  believed,  and  practised,  but  that 
it  is,  on  the  contrary,  an  uncertain,  and  even  a dangerous,  agent  in  this  disease,  and  often 
seems  to  determine  an  unfavorable  result  ” ( Medical  News , xliii.  561).  This  judgment, 
which  is  apparently  borne  out  by  the  facts  adduced  in  its  support,  is  nevertheless  j 
impugned  by  Dr.  Webb,  a colleague  of  the  reporter,  who  is  also  in  full  accord  with  the  I 
general  medical  experience  of  the  region  in  which  this  disease  occurs.  Quinine  some-  j 
times  appears  to  become  efficient  when  administered  hypodermically  after  its  administra- 
tion by  the  mouth  has  failed. 

In  remittent  fever  a preparatory  emeto-cathartic  treatment  appears  to  be  more  distinctly 
indicated  by  the  gastro-hepatic  symptoms  than  in  intermittent  fever,  yet  observation 


Q U IN  IN  A?  S UL  PH  A S. 


1357 


proves  that  in  this  ease  also  the  local  disorders  are  under  the  control  of  the  miasmatic 
poison,  and  that  when  it  is  eliminated  or  neutralized  they  cease.  If  the  physician  is 
able  to  choose  his  time,  the  medicine  should  be  administered  as  soon  as  the  remission 
sets  in,  and  from  Gm.  0.80-1.20  (12  to  18  grains)  of  quinine  should  be  given  in  two 
or  three  doses  at  intervals  of  an  hour ; but  if  the  paroxysm  has  already  begun  and  if 
the  sj'mptoms  are  urgent,  as  occurs  in  the  congestive  forms  of  the  disease,  no  time  should 
be  lost;  the  medicine  should  be  administered  in  doses  twice  as  large  as  those  just  named, 
and  at  shorter  or  longer  intervals  according  to  the  duration  of  the  remission.  After  con- 
trol has  been  obtained  over  one  paroxysm,  the  medicine  may  be  exhibited  in  half  the 
original  doses,  or  less,  for  several  periodical  revolutions. 

The  prevalence  of  yellow  fever  in  certain  localities  where  periodical  fevers  also  prevail 
s;ave  rise  to  the  grave  error  that  its  nature  is  the  same  as  theirs,  and  that  it  may  be  cured 
by  their  specific  remed}^.  The  experience  of  competent  judges  has  led  to  the  following 
conclusions  : 1.  That  quinine  is  not  a specific  for  yellow  fever,  as  it  is  for  periodical  fevers 
of  every  type ; 2,  that  in  mild  cases,  which  would  probably  recover  under  good  nursing 
and  an  expectant  treatment,  the  medicine  may  sometimes  hasten  recovery  ; 3,  that,  on 
the  whole,  the  results  depending  upon  quinine  are  no  better  than — if,  indeed,  they  are 
as  good  as — those  of  the  treatment  of  symptoms  which  is  sanctioned  by  general  experience, 
and  which  the  skill  of  the  physician  must  modify  to  suit  the  genius  of  each  epidemic  of 
the  disease. 

Various  inflammatory  affections  assuming  a periodical  type  under  the  miasmatic 
influence  are  more  successfully  treated  by  quinine  than  by  any  other  means.  The  more 
important  of  such  affections  are  pneumonia  and  dysentery.  In  like  manner,  accidental 
periodical  haemorrhages  have  ceased  under  the  influence  of  quinine,  including  even  epistaxis 
{ Bull . de  Therap .,  xcvii.  373  ; Med.  Record , xxi.  541). 

Many  functional  disorders  of  the  spinal  nervous  system  assume  more  or  less  distinctly 
a periodical  type,  quite  independently  of  a specific  poison.  Among  these  may  be  enume- 
rated spasmodic  asthma , laryngismus  stridulus , whooping  cough , periodical  palpitation  of 
the  heart , hiccough , and,  above  all,  neuralgia.  In  the  last-named  disorder,  especially  of 
the  fifth  pair,  quinine  divides  with  arsenic  the  honor  of  the  greatest  number  of  cures, 
especially  in  malarial  cases  and  in  fevers  and  other  diseases  of  like  origin.  Cases  of 
intermittent  paralysis  of  the  hemiplegic  form,  and  also  of  periodical  aphonia , have  been 
cured  by  the  same  means;  but  they  were  miasmatic  in  nature.  In  these  cases  the  opera- 
tion of  the  remedy  was  generally  stimulant  and  not  sedative,  since  they  were  cured  by 
comparatively  small  doses  of  quinine.  But  in  some  of  the  above,  and  still  other  affections 
of  the  nervous  system,  the  cure  has  been  brought  about  by  large  or  sedative  doses  of 
quinine.  Quinine  was  used  in  the  treatment  of  whooping  cough  by  Binz  in  1870,  and  by 
Dawson  of  New  York  in  1873,  but  more  generally  since  1885,  when  Sauerhering  (Bull, 
de  Therap .,  cix.  372)  gave  it  in  small  doses,  in  a dry  powder  with  sugar,  at  intervals  of 
two  or  three  days.  This  method  was  pursued  by  Campbell  of  Montreal  {Med.  Mews,  xlix. 
301).  Others,  like  Bachem  (Centralb.  f.  d.  ldin.  Med.,  1886)  and  Michael  {ihidi),  insuf- 
flated such  powders  into  the  nostrils,  or,  like  Kohlmetz,  injected  these  passages  with  a 
strong  solution  of  quinine  {Deutsche  med.  Zeit.,  1886)  ; while  others  still  gave  large  and 
frequent  doses  of  the  medicine  to  the  production  of  intoxication  (Parker,  Pliilad.  Med. 
Times,  xvi.  710).  It  appears,  therefore,  that  neither  the  mode  of  using  it  nor  the  dose  of 
quinine  has  been  uniform,  and  the  data  are  insufficient  for  determining  which  one  is  pref- 
erable. Whether  the  medicine  acts  by  destroying  the  specific  cause  of  whooping  cough 
or  by  its  local  action  on  the  naso-pharyngeal  mucous  membrane  is  undetermined.  The 
analogy  of  certain  otlrer  remedies  which  have  cured  this  disease  appears  to  favor  the 
latter  view — viz.  salicylic  acid  and  the  salicylates,  carbolic  acid,  the  exhalations  of  gas- 
works, the  bromides,  resorcin,  nitrate  of  silver,  etc.  Hay  fever  has  been  treated  success- 
fully with  injections  into  the  nasal  passages  of  a warm  watery  solution  of  quinine  of  the 
strength  of  from  to  ^ of  1 per  cent.  At  the  same  time,  it  should  be  given  internally  in 
doses  of  not  less  than  Gm.  0.30  (5  grains)  three  times  a day. 

Hypodermic  injections  of  quinine  have  been  used  with  alleged,  but  unproved,  advan- 
tage {Centra/.hl.  f.  Ther.,  v.  571).  The  muscular  debility  and  nervous  excitability  which 
often  attend  the  second  stage  of  whooping  cough  have  been  treated  by  bark  or  quinine 
ever  since  the  time  of  Cullen.  Quinine  has  been  recommended  in  influenza,  but  the  proofs 
of  its  utility  are  insufficient. 

The  curative  effects  of  quinine  in  sunstroke  are  attested  by  numerous  physicians,  espe- 
cially in  the  East  Indies,  where  this  accident  is  of  more  frequent  occurrence  than  else- 
where. It  is  claimed  that,  whereas  the  mortality  from  heat-apoplexy  in  that  country  was 


1358 


QUININE  SULPHAS. 


formerly  more  than  50  per  cent.,  the  success  of  the  treatment  by  quinine  has  been  con- 
stant. The  medicine  is  most  effectually  administered  hypodermically  by  several  punctures, 
in  each  of  which  Grm.  0.10  (1J  grains)  is  introduced. 

The  history  of  the  treatment  of  acute  articular  rheumatism  by  cinchona  and  by  quinine 
is  instructive,  for  it  leads  one  to  entertain  serious  doubts  concerning  the  mode  of  action 
of  these  medicines.  More  than  a century  ago  bark  came  into  vogue  for  the  cure  of 
rheumatism,  and  was  administered  in  doses  representing  not  more  than  2 or  3 grains  of 
quinine,  after  depletion,  emesis,  and  purgation.  Until  the  introduction  of  quinine  its 
efficacy  was  almost  unquestioned,  yet  nothing  can  be  plainer  than  that  bark  as  formerly 
used  can  produce  no  such  effects  as  quinine  employed  according  to  the  fashion  of  the 
present  day.  The  former  could  only  act  as  a stimulant,  the  latter  only  as  a sedative. 
This  was  the  first  disease  in  which  the  modern  doctrine  of  treating  febrile  affections  was 
applied — a doctrine  which  would  seem  to  teach  that  disease  is  in  its  phenomena  alone, 
and  not  in  the  organic  condition  out  of  which  they  spring.  Enormous  doses  of  the 
medicine  were  given,  even  to  the  amount  of  200  grains  in  one  day  ; but  although  far 
smaller  and  less  poisonous  doses  were  usually  administered,  and  marvellous  cures  were 
fully  set  forth,  the  common  sense  of  physicians  revolted  against  the  method,  and  it  is  now 
practically  abandoned.  Quinine,  however,  in  tonic  doses  is  of  service  in  that  condition 
of  debility  which  is  apt  to  follow  or  accompany  the  use  of  the  most  efficient  treat- 
ment for  acute  articular  rheumatism— the  alkaline.  It  prevents  the  development  of  the 
scorbutic  cachexia,  and  an  increase  of  the  weakness  that  denotes  a tendency  to  such  a 
result.  It  is  also  indicated,  but  less  strongly,  after  the  treatment  by  salicylic  acid  or 
the  salicylates. 

A precisely  similar  succession  and  antagonism  of  opinions  to  that  which  has  just  been 
sketched  occurred  in  the  history  of  the  use  of  bark  in  typhus.  Originally  employed  to 
counteract  “ putridity,”  it  was  used  beneficially,  because  it  acted  as  a stimulant,  and  was 
combined  with  other  stimulants,  as  in  the  famous  and  still  official  “ Huxham’s  tincture.” 

In  more  recent  times  quinine  was  employed  as  an  antiphlogistic  and  sedative  in  very 
large  doses,  and  not  a few  witnesses  were  found  to  give  the  most  positive  testimony  in  its  ! 
favor.  That  they  were  utterly  mistaken  is  now  certain.  Quinine  has  not  been  shown  to 
be  of  any  service  in  typhus  except  at  the  critical  stage,  when  a full  tonic  dose  may  ! 
reduce  the  pulse  and  give  a favorable  turn  to  the  disease.  . 

One  of  the  latest  and  highest  authorities  in  medical  science  uses  the  following  lan- 
guage : Quinine  does  not  put  an  end  to  an  attack  of  typhoid  fever , as  it  does  to  one  of 
intermittent  fever.  In  the  first-named  disease  it  has  no  specific  operation,  but  only  so 

weakens  the  putrid  ferments  that  they  run  their  career  less  destructively When 

quinine  is  useless,  the  disease  must  either  have  assumed  an  exceptional  and  complicated 
form  or  the  medicine  must  have  been  imperfectly  administered  (Binz).  Liebermeister 
also  denies  its  possessing  any  specific  influence  upon  the  disease  or  any  power  to  arrest  its  | 

course.  The  use  of  the  medicine  in  typhoid  fever  rests  upon  the  same  erroneous  ground  ; 

as  the  employment  of  other  antipyretics — an  error  which  consists  in  treating  fever  as  if 
it  were  absolutely  limited  by  temperature  and  pulse-frequency,  and  as  if  nothing  more  ' 
essential  lay  behind  these  symptoms  of  the  process.  A few  physicians  continue  to  believe 
in  the  fitness  of  quinine  for  the  treatment  of  typhoid  fever — e.  g.  Pecholier  ( Bull . de  Therap., 
cx.  479  ; cxii.  349),  Hull  {Med.  News,  xlv.  538),  and  Cleveland  {Med.  Record , xxx.  561)  ; 
but  the  preponderance  of  opinion  is  entirely  opposed  to  the  medication  {ibid.,  p.  581), 
except  in  small  doses  and  chiefly  as  a tonic  during  the  decline  of  the  attack  ; and  by  so 
high  an  authority  as  Jaccoud  its  use  otherwise  was  pronounced  dangerous  {Jour,  de 
Med.,  No.  20,  1888).  The  worst  results  of  treating  typhoid  fever  with  quinine  sul- 
phate appear  to  be  explicable  by  the  large  doses  of  it  administered,  as  much  as  35  or  40 
grains  for  an  adult  man  having  been  given  in  three  or  four  doses  within  less  than  an  hour. 

In  December,  1882,  Hardy  called  the  attention  of  the  Paris  Academy  of  Medicine  to  the 
fact  that  within  three  months  four  cases  of  sudden  death  had  occurred  in  the  hospitals 
among  patients  treated  with  large  doses  of  quinine  {Archives  gen.  de  Med.,  Jan.  1883,  p- 
114).  It  is  also  greatly  to  be  apprehended  that  a portion  of  the  quinine  may  reach  and 
irritate  the  intestinal  ulcers  and  increase  the  risk  of  perforation,  one  of  the  gravest  dan- 
gers of  the  disease.  The  uselessness  and  occasional  danger  of  large  doses  of  the  drug 
led  Bobin  to  recur  to  the  original  method  of  using  it — that  is,  as  a tonic.  He  recom- 
mends two  doses  only  in  the  twenty-four  hours,  each  from  4 to  6 grains  {Archives  gen., 
Jan.  1888,  p.  19). 

What  has  been  said  concerning  typhus  and  typhoid  fever  is  equally  applicable  to 
puerperal  fever , scarlet  fever , small-pox,  and  erysipelas.  There  is  very  little  doubt  that 


QUININE  SULPHAS. 


1359 


tonic  and  stimulant  doses  of  quinine  are  serviceable  in  them,  and  that  sedative  doses  of 
the  medicine  are  mischievous.  In  each  affection  it  is  useful  in  proportion  as  the  symp- 
toms assume  a typhoid  character ; thus  it  is  advantageous  in  all  cases  of  septicaemia, 
whether  arising  from  primary  blood  diseases  or  from  traumatic  causes,  but  in  this,  as  in  the 
other  affections  enumerated,  only  in  small  and  repeated  doses.  It  has  even  been  employed 
before  and  after  surgical  operations  to  prevent  septicaemia , but  evidently  its  influence,  if 
any,  would  be  extremely  difficult  to  determine.  This  medicine  has  also  been  alleged  t'o 
be  more  efficacious  than  any  other  in  the  radical  treatment  of  diphtheria , but  as  yet  satis- 
factory clinical  proof  of  the  statement  has  not  been  furnished.  As  a tonic  in  this  disease 
its  utility  is  generally  recognized.  The  same  may  be  said  of  its  use  in  the  treatment  of 
asthenic  pneumonia , and  of  hectic  fever  from  whatever  cause  it  may  arise.  In  the  num- 
erous allied  cases  also  of  profuse  sweating  connected  with  general  debility  from  exhaust- 
ing diseases,  whether  during  their  progress  or  following  their  active  symptoms  into  con- 
valescence, quinine,  especially  with  aromatic  sulphuric  acid,  is  one  of  the  most  reliable 
remedies  that  can  be  employed. 

We  have  not  in  the  preceding  paragraphs  alluded  to  the  employment  of  quinine  sul- 
phate in  purely  inflammatory  diseases — those  of  all  others,  one  would  suppose,  which 
would  illustrate  the  sedative  virtues  of  the  medicine.  But  neither  in  meningitis,  pleu- 
ritis,  pericarditis,  or  peritonitis,  nor  in  any  mucous  inflammation,  does  it  appear  to  have 
been  put  to  the  test.  There  remains  pneumonia , which  has  long  been  the  piece  de  resist- 
ance upon  which  the  virtues  of  active  medicines  have  been  tested.  It  has  not  escaped 
the  administration  of  heroic  doses  of  quinine.  In  Stockholm,  Jurgensen  (1871)  stated 
that  in  a series  of  200  consecutive  cases  twenty-four  were  fatal,  or  a mortality  of  12  per 
cent.  But  his  own  statistics  of  the  same  city  for  1851,  when  certainly  the  quinine  treat- 
ment had  not  been  devised,  present  a mortality  of  only  9.8  per  cent.,  and  in  five  of  the 
sixteen  years  from  1840-55  the  mortality  was  less  than  12  per  cent.  This  distinguished 
physician  gave  “in  highly  febrile  states  to  an  adult  Gm.  5 (77  grains),  and  to  a child 
under  one  year  Gm.  1 (15  grains),  and  always  in  one  dose.”  It  is  very  desirable  that  a 
medicine  as  precious  and  costly  as  quinine  should  not  be  squandered,  and  it  certainly 
seems  to  be  wasted  when  it  is  administered  so  profusely  and  with  no  better  results  than 
these.  In  this  country  a similar,  but  a somewhat  less  extreme,  method  has  been  recom- 
mended by  Palmer  (1877),  who  gave,  as  near  as  possible  to  the  beginning  of  the  attack, 
from  6 to  10  grains  of  quinine  with  from  1 to  i grain  of  morphine,  repeating  the  quinine 
in  doses  of  from  4 to  8 grains  once  in  from  two  to  three  hours,  and  continuing  them  until 
from  30  to  50,  and  sometimes  60,  grains  were  given.  Of  this  treatment  we  are  told : 
“ The  effects  desired,  and  certainly  as  a rule  produced,  are  a decided  reduction  of  tem- 
perature, a marked  diminution  in  the  frequency  of  the  pulse,  a decided  moisture  of  the 
skin  or  free  sweating,  a slower  and  more  easy  respiration,  or  relief  from  pain  and  the 
feeling  of  fulness  of  the  chest,  a diminution  of  the  cough  and  of  the  tenacious  and 
bloody  character  of  the  expectoration ; and,  in  short,  not  only  is  there  a checking  of  the 
fever,  but  of  all  evidences,  general  and  local,  of  the  pulmonary  engorgement  and  inflam- 
mation.” These  are  very  remarkable  effects,  and  the  statement  of  them  would  have 
acquired  a much  higher  value  if  it  had  also  included  the  number  of  cases  for  which  the 
treatment  was  used,  the  ages  of  the  patients,  the  type  and  grade  of  the  disease,  its  mor- 
tality-rate, and  the  other  remedies  besides  quinine  and  morphine  that  were  employed. 
Another  physician  declares  that  the  doses  must  be  “ large,  very  large  ” {Jour.  Am.  Med. 
As.s\,  vii.  119)  ; Lockie  has  “ great  faith  in  doses  of  10  grains  at  night  and  5 in  the  morn- 
ing” ( Edinb . Med.  Jour.,  xxxi.  421);  while  Atkinson  claims  equally  good  effects  with 
doses  of  only  2 grains  every  two,  three,  and  four  hours  ( Practitioner , xxxv.  262)  ; and 
Ripley  found  quinine  “ a feeble  and  uncertain  antipyretic  in  pneumonia,  as  well  as  liable 
to  occasion  anorexia,  nausea,  vomiting,  cardiac  weakness,  cold  perspiration,  etc.”  (Med. 
Record , xxxi.  113).  In  fact,  there  is  little  attempt  made  by  reporters  to  indicate  the 
special  conditions  (except  hyperpyrexia)  which  call  for  the  drug  or  a particular  dose  of 
it,  and  no  adequate  evidence  that  it  is  useful  in  any  case  to  determine  the  issue  of  the 
disease. 

In  close  pathological  relation  with  the  above-mentioned  asthenic  states  are  numerous 
local  affections  in  which  quinine  is  of  great  value.  Such  are  scrofulous  ulcers  and  abscesses, 
scrofulous  inflammations  of  the  eye,  chronic  mucous  fluxes  of  the  pharynx,  larynx,  bron- 
chia, stomach,  bowels,  and  urinary  organs.  It  is  one  of  the  best  remedies  for  scarlatinous 
and  other  forms  of  albuminuria , especially  when  it  is  associated  with  tincture  of  chloride 
of  iron. 

In  auditory  vertigo  (mal  de  Meniere)  the  persistent  use  of  quinine  has  in  several  cases 


1360 


QUININE  SULPHAS. 


removed  the  complaint  entirely.  Charcot,  who  proposes  this  method,  insists  on  the 
administration  of  10  or  12  grains  of  quinine  daily  for  at  least  a month,  although  it  is  apt 
at  first  to  aggravate  the  symptoms,  and  then  the  resumption  of  the  medicine  after  its 
suspension  for  a week  or  two  (Med.  Record , xviii.  602  ; Jour.  Am.  Med.  Assoc.,  iii.  97). 
Meniere  himself  found  that  it  lessened  or  removed  the  vertigo  and  modified  the  deafness, 
but  he  does  not  profess  that  quinine,  more  than  any  other  medicine,  is  a cure  for  the  dis- 
ease ( Monthly  Abstract , July,  1881,  p.  407).  These  results  are  confirmed  by  Fere  and 
Demars  (Bull,  de  Therap .,  cii.  133).  Although  quinine  has  no  power  of  originating  con- 
tractions in  the  gravid  uterus,  it  undoubtedly  during  slow  labor , with  insufficient  expul- 
sive pains  and  an  exhausted  condition  of  the  system,  revives  the  uterine  energy,  favors 
the  rapid  and  safe  termination  of  labor,  and  tends  to  prevent  exhausting  haemorrhages. 

A dose  of  Gm.  0.30-0.60  (5  to  10  grains)  may  be  repeated  every  half-hour  or  hour.  Le 
Diberder  claims  that  quinine  sulphate  in  the  dose  Gm.  0.36  (6  grains)  twice  a day  is 
an  efficient  remedy  for  fissures  of  the  nipples , and  that  no  active  local  treatment  need  be 
employed  at  the  same  time. 

A solution  of  quinine  of  the  strength  of  Gm.  0.13—0.20  in  Gm.  32  (2  or  3 grains  in  an 
ounce)  of  water  has  been  used  with  advantage  as  an  injection  for  gonorrhoea.  Probably 
by  a similar  mode  of  action  it  has  been  found  to  greatly  relieve  the  tenesmus  attending 
micturition  in  cases  of  vesical  catarrh  and  villous  growths  near  the  neck  of  the  bladder, 
whether  injected  into  that  organ  or  administered  by  the  mouth.  It  will  be  remembered 
how  large  a proportion  of  quinine  sulphate  is  eliminated  with  the  urine.  Most  proba- 
bly it  acts  both  substitutively  and  by  limiting  the  putrefaction  of  the  mucus  in  the  blad- 
der. It  has  also  been  injected  into  the  pleural  cavity  in  cases  of  empyema , and  applied 
as  a dressing  to  ulcers  and  suppurating  sinuses.  A solution  of  4 grains  to  the  ounce  has 
been  applied  with  alleged  advantage  in  the  treatment  of  pseudo-membranous  conjunctivitis 
(Tweedy,  Amer.  Jour,  of  Med.  Sci .,  Apr.  1882,  p.  592).  A strong  solution  of  the  salt 
is  said  to  relieve  pruritus  ani  and  pruritus  vulvse.  In  these  cases  there  is  no  sufficient 
reason  for  believing  that  it  acts  otherwise  than  as  a substitutive  irritant. 

Warburg’s  Tincture  is  the  name  of  a preparation  which  was  for  a long  time  famous  • 
as  a nostrum,  the  secret  of  which  was  obtained  by  Prof.  Maclean  of  the  Army  Medical 
School  in  England.  This  distinguished  physician  had  on  many  occasions  witnessed  the 
efficacy  of  the  medicine  in  India  when  quinine  had  proved  unavailing.  Its  composition  1 
is  as  follows  : R.  Aloes  (Socot.)  lb.j  ; Rad.  rhei  (chinens.),  Sem.  angelicae.  Confect.  Damo- 
cratis,  aa  ^iv  ; Rad.  helenii  (s.  enulse),  Croci  sativi,  Sem.  fceniculi,  Cretse  ppt.,  aa  ^ij ; 
Rad.  gentianae,  Rad.  zedoariae,  Pip.  cubebae,  Myrrhae  elect.,  Camphorae,  Bolet.  laricis,  aa 
^j.  These  ingredients  are  to  be  digested  with  500  ounces  of  proof  spirit  in  a water-bath  for 
twelve  hours;  then  expressed,  and  10  ounces  of  quinine  disulphate  added  to  the  mix- 
ture. which  is  then  replaced  in  the  water-bath  until  all  the  quinine  is  dissolved.  The  j 
liquor  when  cool  is  to  be  filtered,  and  is  then  fit  for  use.  The  tincture  is  administered  in  j 
the  following  manner : “ Half  an  ounce  (half  a bottle)  is  given  alone  without  dilution, 
after  the  bowels  have  been  evacuated  by  any  convenient  purgative,  all  drink  being  with- 
held. In  three  hours  the  other  half  of  the  bottle  is  administered  in  the  same  way.  Soon  j 
afterward,  particularly  in  hot  climates,  profuse  but  seldom  exhausting  perspiration  is 
induced.  This  has  a strong  aromatic  odor,  which  is  often  detected  about  the  patient  and 
his  room  on  the  following  day.  With  this  there  is  a rapid  decline  of  temperature  and 
an  immediate  abatement  of  frontal  headache — in  a word,  complete  defervescence — and  it 
seldom  happens  that  a second  bottle  is  required ; if  so,  the  dose  must  be  repeated  as 
above.”  To  the  anticipated  objection  that,  after  all,  the  compound  is  “merely  quinine 
concealed  in  a farrago  of  inert  substances,”  the  reply  of  I)r.  Maclean  is  : “I  have  treated 
remittent  fevers  of  every  degree  of  severity  contracted  in  the  jungles  of  the  Deccan  and 
Mysore  and  at  the  base  of  mountainous  ranges  in  India,  on  the  Coromandel  coast,  in  the 
pestilential  highlands  of  the  northern  division  of  the  Madras  Presidency,  on  the  malarial 
rivers  of  China,  and  in  men  brought  to  Nettley  Hospital  from  the  swamps  of  the  Gold 
Coast,  and  I affirm  that  I have  never  seen  quinine,  when  given  alone,  act  in  the  manner 
characteristic  of  this  tincture.  And  although  I yield  to  no  one  in  my  high  opinion  of 
the  inestimable  value  of  quinine,  I have  never  seen  a single  dose  of  it  given  alone,  to  the 
extent  of  9^  grains,  suffice  to  arrest  an  exacerbation  of  remittent  fever,  much  less  pre- 
vent its  recurrence ; while  nothing  is  more  common  than  to  see  the  same  quantity  of  the 
alkaloid  in  Warburg’s  tincture  bring  about  such  results  (Med.  Times  and  Gaz .,  Nov.  1855, 
p.  540).  _ 

The  dose  of  quinine  sulphate  as  a tonic  is  Gm.  0.06  (gr.  j)  three  or  four  times  a day. 
More  than  this  is  likely  to  act  as  a sedative  rather  than  as  a tonic.  In  simple  intermit- 


QUININE  VALERIANAS. 


1361 


tent  or  mild  remittent  fever  6m.  0.40-0.50  (gr.  vj-viij)  are  sufficient  to  avert  the  par- 
oxysm; in  severer  cases  of  these  affections  the  dose  must  be  raised  to  Gm.  1-1.30  (gr. 
xv-xx),  and  in  those  of  a malignant  type  to  Gm.  2-4  (gr.  xxx-lx),  given,  in  both  of  the 
latter  cases,  in  divided  doses.  In  all  cases  of  periodical  fever  it  should  be  administered 
as  long  as  possible  before  the  expected  paroxysm , and  generally  in  regular  types  as  soon 
after  a paroxysm  as  the  stomach  is  able  to  retain  it.  The  absorption  of  the  quinine  will 
be  hastened  by  the  previous  administration  of  purgatives,  of  which  combinations  of  rhu- 
barb and  aloes  are  the  best.  Intermittent  neuralgia  requires  doses  sufficient  to  produce 
the  physiological  effects  of  the  medicine  in  a marked  degree,  and  the  same  is  true  of  the 
various  febrile  and  inflammatory  affections  in  which  the  medicine  is  intended  to  produce 
sedation. 

The  most  usual  and  efficient  mode  of  administering  quinine  sulphate  in  small  doses 
is  in  solution,  rendered  more  perfect  and  stable  by  the  addition  of  aromatic  sulphuric 
acid  in  the  proportion  of  1 drop  of  the  acid  to  each  grain  of  the  sulphate.  It  is  also 
administered  in  powder  enveloped  in  a wafer  or  in  a thick  mucilage,  white  of  egg,  or 
jelly,  or  in  pills  coated  with  sugar,  gelatin,  or  gold  or  silver  leaf,  in  capsules,  or,  finally, 
in  the  form  of  compressed  lenticular  pills  of  quinine  disulphate.  In  all  of  these  forms 
the  concentrated  action  of  the  medicine  upon  the  stomach  tends  to  irritate  it,  and  hence 
the  solution  already  mentioned  should  be  preferred.  Its  bitter  taste  may  be  masked  by 
the  addition  of  a little  chloroform,  and  the  mixture  should  be  flavored  with  syrup  or  tinc- 
ture of  orange-peel,  with  extract  of  liquorice,  or  with  syrup  or  fluid  extract  of  liquorice- 
root.  Tannic  acid  has  been  used  to  mitigate  the  bitterness  of  quinine  in  solution;  it  does 
so,  indeed,  but  at  the  expense  of  rendering  the  medicine  almost  inert  by  forming  with  it 
a tannate.  Moreover,  it  contains  but  42  per  cent,  of  quinine,  whereas  the  sulphate  con- 
tains 73.5  per  cent,  and  the  hydrochlorate  82  per  cent.  The  last-mentioned  salt  is  much 
less  stable  than  the  sulphate,  but  when  freshly  prepared  is  preferable  on  account  of  its 
superior  solubility.  It  is  a convenient  associate  for  tincture  of  iron  chloride  in  solu- 
tion. Quinine  sulphate  or  bisulphate  is  better  tolerated  in  malarial  fevers  when  given 
in  solutions  of  potassium  tartrate  or  ammonium  chloride.  Spirit  of  nitrous  ether  is  said 
to  dissolve  “ quinine  ” in  the  proportion  of  about  2 drachms  of  the  latter  to  an  ounce  of 
the  former.  By  the  rectum  quinine  sulphate  may  be  exhibited  in  the  same  doses  and 
with  nearly  the  same  effect  as  by  the  mouth,  provided  it  be  given  in  watery  solution. 
Probably  the  muriate  is  to  be  preferred  for  this  purpose.  Suppositories  of  quinine  sul- 
phate are  irritating.  Potassium  iodide  is  chemically  incompatible  with  quinine  sulphate ; 
iodine  is  set  free. 

The  hypodermic  injection  of  a solution  of  quinine  sulphate  has  been  extensively 
practised,  but  its  tendency  to  cause  pain,  inflammation,  abscess,  gangrene,  and  even  fatal 
tetanus  (Ady  ; Harris,  Therap.  GazAx.  698;  ibid. , p.  133)  more  than  counterbalances  the 
advantages  derived  from  the  facility  of  its  administration  and  the  promptness  of  its  effect. 
The  risks  alluded  to  should  restrict  the  use  of  this  method  to  cases  in  which  delay  may 
be  dangerous.  It  is  claimed  that  if  the  solution  be  throwrn  into  loose  subcutaneous  con- 
nective tissue,  this  accident  is  not  apt  to  occur,  but  sufficient  proof  of  this  claim  is  want- 
ing. The  addition  of  tartaric  acid  to  a solution  of  the  bisulpliate  is  said  to  render  it  less 
irritating.  The  quinine  bromohydrate  is  very  soluble  in  water,  and  is  alleged  to  be 
entirely  unirritating,  and  therefore  to  be  well  adapted  for  hypodermic  use.  It  contains  a 
larger  proportion  of  quinine  than  the  sulphate.  It  was,  however,  the  use  of  this  very 
preparation  that  caused  death  in  a case  above  referred  to.  The  oleate  is  also  appropriate 
for  this  mode  of  administration,  and  the  hydrochlorate  is  even  more  so.  (See  Quinin^e 
Hydrochloras.)  The  dose  for  hypodermic  injection  of  quinine  sulphate  may  be 
stated  at  from  2 to  4 grains.  The  intravenous  injection  of  quinine  muriate  dissolved  by 
means  of  sodium  chloride  has  been  proposed  by  Boulli  ( Centralbl.  f.  Ther .,  viii.  20). 

QUININE  VALERIANAS,  77.  S. — Quinine  Valerianate. 

Qmniee  valeric  mas.  Chininum  valerianicum. — Valerianate  de  quinine , Fr. ; Baldriansaures 
Chinin , G. 

Formula  C20H24N2O2.C5H10O2.H2O.  Molecular  weight  443.07. 

Quinine  valerianate  should  be  kept  in  well-stoppered  bottles  in  a dark  place. — JJ.  S. 
Preparation. — Wittstein  (1845)  gives  the  following  directions:  Dissolve  1 part  of 
valerianic  acid  in  60  parts  of  water ; add  to  the  solution  3 parts  of  quinine  (recently  pre- 
cipitated alkaloid  is  preferable)  ; heat  the  mixture  to  near  boiling,  filter  when  neutral  and 
while  hot,  and  set  aside  in  a cool  place.  After  several  days  decant  the  mother-liquor, 

86 


1362 


QUIN  IN jE  VALERIANAS. 


evaporate  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  50°  C.  (122°  F.),  and  dry  the  salt  at  a very 
moderate  temperature.  At  a higher  temperature  the  solution  separates  oily  drops,  which 
on  cooling  form  an  amorphous  resinous  mass  dissolving  with  difficulty  in  water. 

The  salt  was  medicinally  employed  in  1843  by  Castiglioni,  and  was  in  the  same  year 
prepared  by  Lucien  Bonaparte  from  the  sulphate  by  decomposing  it  with  a valerianate. 
Stalmann  (1868)  used  for  this  purpose  sodium  valerianate ; the  quinine  salt  is  taken  up 
with  alcohol. 

Properties. — Quinine  valerianate  crystallizes  in  colorless,  pearly,  rhomboidal  tables 
or  in  white  triclinic  needles  having  a weak  odor  of  valerianic  acid,  a bitter  somewhat 
valerian-like  taste,  and  a neutral  reaction.  The  salt  dissolves  in  100  parts  of  cold 
and  40  parts  of  boiling  water,  in  5 parts  of  cold  and  1 part  of  boiling  80  per  cent, 
alcohol,  and  is  easily  soluble  in  ether  (Wittstein).  On  adding  dilute  sulphuric  acid  to 
the  aqueous  solution  it  becomes  fluorescent,  and  the  odor  of  valerianic  acid  is  rendered 
more  apparent.  Ammonia  gives  a white  precipitate  soluble  in  an  excess  of  the  precipi- 
tant and  in  ether,  and  with  chlorine-water  and  ammonia  an  emerald-green  color  is  pro- 
duced. The  salt  is  permanent  in  the  air;  it  melts  at  90°  C.  (194°  F.),  forming  a color- 
less liquid.  When  strongly  heated  on  platinum-foil  it  is  decomposed,  and  burns  slowly 
without  leaving  any  residue.  At  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  it  loses  its  water  of  crystallization 
and  also  begins  to  lose  valerianic  acid. 

The  aqueous  solution  of  the  salt  is  neutral,  or  has  a slightly  alkaline  reaction  upon 
litmus-paper.  The  aqueous  solution,  when  acidulated  with  sulphuric  acid,  exhibits  a blue 
fluorescence  and  emits  the  odor  of  valerianic  acid. 

Composition. — Wittstein  obtained  nearly  5 parts  of  valerianate  from  3 parts  of 
quinine,  and  determined  the  water  to  be  over  23  per  cent.  = 12H20,  and  the  quinine  to 
be  51.355  per  cent.  L.  Bonaparte  regarded  the  loss  in  weight,  ascertained  by  fusing  the 
salt,  to  be  water,  and  suggested  the  above  formula.  Stalmann,  by  elementary  analysis, 
found  the  crystallized  salt  to  yield  carbon,  corresponding  with  the  formula  c20h24n2o2, 
C5H10O2  (mol.  weight  425.11),  equal  to  76.06  per  cent,  of  anhydrous  quinine. 

Tests. — l'  On  treating  10  Cc.  of  an  aqueous  solution  (about  1 in  1300)  of  the  salt  with 
2 drops  of  bromine  test-solution,  and  then  with  an  excess  of  ammonia-water,  the  liquid  will 
acquire  an  emerald-green  color.  With  proper  adjustment  of  the  reagents,  more  dilute  i 
solutions  will  show  a paler  tint,  while  more  concentrated  ones  will  acquire  a deeper  color 
or  throw  down  a green  precipitate. 

The  aqueous  solution  should  remain  clear  or  become  merely  turbid  (produce  not  more 
than  a slight  precipitate  ( U.  JS.)  on  the  addition  of  test-solution  of  barium  chloride. 

The  precipitate  occasioned  by  ammonia-water  should  be  readily  dissolved  on  adding  an 
excess  of  the  latter  (absence  of  cinchonine).  The  salt  is  tested  for  fixed  impurities  by  i 
incineration,  for  ammonia  salt  by  lime  or  potassa,  and  for  organic  impurities,  morphine  ) 

and  other  alkaloids,  by  strong  sulphuric  and  nitric  acid,  as  described  under  Quinine  \ 

Sulphas. 

Other  Salts  of  Quinine. — Quinine  acetas.  Quinine  acetate  crystallizes  in  long  white  needles  > 
on  mixing  hot  solutions  of  quinine  sulphate  (17  parts  of  the  effloresced  salt)  and  sodium  acetate 
(6  parts),  and  allowing  to  cool.  It  is  sparingly  soluble  in  cold  water,  but  freely  soluble  in  boil- 
ing water  and  in  dilute  acids.  It  contains  84  per  cent,  of  quinine. 

Quinine  arsenas.  Quinine  arsenate,  (C20II24N2O2)2II3AsO4.8H2O.  It  is  obtained  in  long  white 
prisms  bv  saturating  a hot  solution  of  arsenic  acid  with  quinine.  The  salt  is  freely  soluble  in  hot 
but  sparingly  soluble  in  cold  water,  and  contains  74  per  cent,  of  quinine  and  10.6  per  cent,  of 
As2°5. 

Quinine  arsenis.  Quinine  arsenite,  (C20ri24N2O2)3II3AsO3.3II2O.  Adler  (1879)  proposed  the 
following  process : 1 part  of  silver  arsenite  (prepared  from  sodium  arsenite  and  silver  nitrate)  is 
mixed  with  3 parts  of  quinine  hydrochloride,  and  the  mixture  digested  for  a day  with  70  per 
cent,  alcohol.  On  spontaneous  evaporation  the  salt  crystallizes  in  white  needles  which  are 
slightly  soluble  in  water,  but  dissolve  in  15  parts  of  cold  and  6 of  boiling  alcohol,  in  8 parts  of 
chloroform,  in  25  parts  of  ether,  and  in  20  parts  of  benzene. 

Quinine  benzoas.  Quinine  benzoate,  C20I!24N2O2.C7H6O2.  It  is  obtained  by  dissolving  3 parts 
of  benzoic  acid  and  8 parts  of  quinine  in  hot  alcohol  and  crystallizing.  It  forms  small  prisms  con- 
taining 72.6  per  cent,  of  quinine  and  requiring  at  10°  C.  (50°  F.)  373  parts  of  water  for  solution. 

Quinine  citras.  Quinine  citrate.  On  saturating  a warm  solution  of  citric  acid,  or  on  decom- 
posing a solution  of  quinine  hydrochlorate  by  a solution  of  sodium  citrate  acidulated  with  citric 
acid,  the  salt,  (C20H24N2O2)2.O6H8O7.7H2O,  is  obtained.  It  crystallizes  from  boiling  water  in  small 
white  prisms  which  at  12°  C.  (53.6°  F.)  require  806  parts  of  water  for  solution,  and  which  contain 
67.08  per  cent,  of  quinine.  The  monobasic  salt  has  a strongly  acid  reaction,  and  at  15°  C.  requires 
650  parts,  and  at  100°  C.  38.5  parts,  of  water  for  solution. 

Quinine  lactas  crystallizes  in  silky  needles  on  evaporating  a solution  of  quinine  in  lactic 
acid ; it  is  soluble  in  water  and  alcohol. 


Q UININJE  V A LERI  A NA  S. 


1363 


Quinine  phenyl-sulphas.  Phenylated  (carbolated)  quinine  sulphate,  (C20H24N2O2)2SO3C6II6O.- 
2H..0.  10  parts  of  crystallized  quinine  sulphate  are  dissolved  in  boiling  water  or  in  alcohol,  and 

an  equivalent  quantity  (nearly  1 part)  of  carbolic  acid  is  added  to  the  solution.  The  salt  contains 
75.5  per  cent,  of  quinine,  crystallizes  in  needles,  and,  after  having  been  washed  with  ether  and 
recrystallized,  has  neither  the  odor  nor  caustic  taste  of  phenol  5 is  insoluble  in  ether  and  chloro- 
form, but  dissolves  freely  in  alcohol  and  in  a mixture  of  2 volumes  of  chloroform  to  1 of  strong 
alcohol,  and  is  more  freely  soluble  in  water  than  the  sulphate,  but  is  nearly  insoluble  therein  in 
the  presence  of  free  phenol. 

Quinine  phosphas.  (C20H24N2O2)2H3PO4.8II2O.  Quinine  phosphate  may  be  prepared  by  dis- 
solving quinine  in  warm  dilute  phosphoric  acid  or  by  decomposing  quinine  hydrochlorate  with 
sodium  phosphate.  It  crystallizes  from  hot  water  in  long  silky  needles  which  require  at  10°  C. 
(50°  F.)  784  parts  of  water  for  solution,  and  contain  75.85  per  cent,  of  quinine. 

Quinine  quixas.  Quinine  kinate  (quinate)  may  be  prepared  by  decomposing  barium  kinate 
with  quinine  sulphate  and  evaporating.  H.  Collier,  who  recommended  it  (1878)  for  hypodermic 
use,  describes  it  as  bei  ig  amorphous,  of  neutral  reaction,  and  freely  soluble  in  water.  A con- 
venient strength  of  the  solution  is  1 part  of  the  salt  in  4 of  the  liquid. 

QtuxiXiE  salicylas.  Quinine  salicylate  is  obtained  as  a curdy  precipitate  by  double  decompo- 
sition between  quinine  hydrochloride  and  ammonium  salicylate.  The  salt  dissolves  in  225  parts 
of  water,  in  120  parts  of  ether,  and  in  20  parts  of  alcohol,  and  crystallizes  from  the  alcoholic 
solution  in  anhydrous  prisms. 

Quinine  sulphovixas.  Carles  (1878)  prepares  the  neutral  salt  by  dissolving  16.6  parts  of 
sodium  sulphovinate  and  42.8  parts  of  quinine  sulphate,  the  former  in  200,  the  latter  in  600,  parts 
of  alcohol,  mixing  the  solutions,  filtering  from  the  precipitated  sodium  sulphate,  and  evapor- 
ating. It  crystallizes  with  difficulty  in  prisms,  dissolves  in  3 parts  of  water  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.), 
in  a less  amount  of  alcohol,  and  dissolves  likewise  in  acetic  ether  and  glycerin,  but  not  in  strong 
ether  or  benzene. 

QuixiXiE  taxxas,  Chininum  tannicum.  It  is  produced  by  adding  a solution  of  2 parts  of  tan- 
nin in  30  parts  of  cold  water  to  a solution  of  1 part  of  quinine  sulphate  in  the  same  amount  of 
water,  with  the  aid  of  some  sulphuric  acid.  It  is  a pale-yellow,  amorphous,  bitter,  and  somewhat 
astringent  powder,  which  is  slightly  soluble  in  cold  alcohol  and  water  and  melts  when  introduced 
into  boiling  water.  By  modifying  the  process  so  as  to  use  water  at  a temperature  not  exceeding 
70°  C.  (158°  F.),  using  sulphuric  acid  barely  sufficient  to  dissolve  the  quinine  salt,  washing  the 
precipitate  with  water,  and  drying  it  at  the  ordinary  temperature,  tasteless  quinine  tannate 
is  obtained,  according  to  A.  Bernick  (1878).  In  testing  it  Jobst  (1878)  recommends  a weighed 
portion  to  be  mixed  with  milk  of  lime,  the  mixture  to  be  dried  and  exhausted  with  chloroform, 
on  the  evaporation  of  which  the  cinchona  alkaloids  are  left  behind. 

Action  and  Uses. — Quinine  valerianate,  which  is  very  unstable  and  often  falsi- 
fied, has  no  special  therapeutic  virtues  which  entitle  it  to  an  official  rank.  It  has  been 
vaunted  in  nervous  headache  and  other  neuralgise  of  the  nerves  of  the  head,  face,  and 
chest,  and  even  in  hysteria  and  epilepsy.  When  the  joint  actions  of  valerian  and  of  qui- 
nine are  desired,  it  is  better  to  associate  the  quinine  sulphate  or  some  other  prepara- 
tion of  cinchona — quinetum,  for  instance — with  the  oil  or  the  fluid  extract  of  valerian,  or 
to  prescribe  these  substances  separately.  The  dose  of  quinine  valerianate  is  Gm.  0.06— 

012  (gr-  j-ij)- 

Quinine  Tannate.  Briquet  relates  that  Barriswill,  acting  on  the  notion  that  in 
cinchona  the  union  of  bitter  principles  with  quinine  renders  the  latter  less  stimulating, 
combined  tannic  acid  with  it,  so  as  to  make  a sort  of  artificial  cinchona  in  a small  bulk. 
But  as  this  tannate  contains  but  40  per  cent,  of  quinine  and  is  very  insoluble,  the  proba- 
bility is  that  its  action  must  be  feeble.  And  so  Briquet  found  it  on  clinical  trial.  He 
estimated  its  power  at  about  one-eighth  or  one-sixth  of  that  of  the  sulphate,  and  found 
that  it  dissolved  very  slowly  in  the  stomach,  is  a weak  febrifuge,  cannot  be  used  when 
large  doses  of  quinine  are  needed,  and  indeed  is  suitable  only  for  nervous  affections  and 
as  a substitute  for  bark  itself,  and,  finally,  that  its  dose  must  be  three  times  as  large  as 
that  of  the  quinine  sulphate  ( Traite  du  Quinquina , 2eme  ed.,  p.  515).  Strangely,  it 
afterward  came  to  be  recommended  for  its  very  lack  of  bitterness,  although  it  was  well 
known  that  this  quality  depended  on  its  slight  solubility  (Becker,  1880),  and  several 
German  physicians  lauded  its  virtues  in  whooping  cough , as  already  stated  (see  Quinin^e 
Sulphas),  but  overlooked  the  fact  that  even  better  results  have  been  attributed  to  quinine 
sulphate.  Probably  the  internal  use  of  quinine  sulphate  and  the  application  of  a solu- 
tion of  tannin  to  the  fauces  and  larynx  would  best  secure  the  benefits  of  both  medicines. 

Quinine  salicylate  is  charged  with  producing  haemorrhage  of  the  internal  ear.  The 
lactate  is  very  soluble,  and  therefore  suitable  for  hypodermic  administration.  It  has  been 
employed  as  an  injection  for  gonorrhoea.  Quinine  biborate  is  pronounced  by  Hagens 
to  be  superfluous  ( Zeitschrift  f.  Min.  Med.,  xii.  265).  Finkler  and  Prior  ascribe  to  it 
antithermic  powers,  but  admit  that  it  is  slow  in  exhibiting  them  ( Deutsche  med.  Woch- 
ensch .,  No.  6,  1884). 


1364 


RANUNCUL  US.— RESINA. 


RANUNCULUS.— Crowfoot. 

Buttercups , E. ; Renoncule,  Fr. ; Hahnenfuss , Gr. ; Ranunculo , Sp. 

Ranunculus  bulbosus,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Ranunculacese. 

Origin. — The  bulbous  crowfoot  grows  in  grassy  fields  and  along  roadsides  throughout 
Europe,  and  has  been  naturalized  in  North  America.  It  flowers  from  April  or  May  till 
July  or  August. 

Description. — The  stem  of  this  species  is  enlarged  at  its  base  to  a depressed  globu- 
lar tuber,  which  has  the  appearance  of  a tunicated  bulb  from  the  broad  sheathing  bases 
of  the  leaf-stalks.  The  radical  leaves  are,  like  the  entire  plant,  hairy,  long-petiolate,  ter- 
nate,  the  lateral  divisions  sessile,  the  terminal  one  stalked,  and  all  of  a subrhomboid  shape, 
three-cleft,  toothed  and  wedge-shaped  at  the  base.  The  stem-leaves  are  similar,  but  on 
shorter  petioles.  The  flowers  have  a reflexed  calyx  and  roundish,  wedge-shaped,  glossy 
yellow  petals,  and  produce  globular  heads  of  obovate  akenes  having  a short  curved  beak. 
The  plant  is  inodorous,  but  has  a strongly  acrid  taste,  which  it  loses  after  drying. 

Allied  Species. — All  species  of  Ranunculus  and  some  allied  genera  appear  to  possess  more  or 
less  the  acridity  of  the  above.  The  following  European  and  North  American  species  have  occa- 
sionally been  used : 

Ran.  repens,  LinnA.  It  resembles  the  preceding,  but  is  without  the  bulbous  base,  produces 
long  runners,  has  the  divisions  of  the  leaves  stalked,  a spreading  calyx,  and  the  akenes  margined 
and  furnished  with  a rather  straight  beak. 

Ran.  acris,  Linn6.  It  differs  from  the  creeping  crowfoot  in  being  taller  and  without  runners, 
and  in  having  the  divisions  of  the  leaves  all  sessile. 

Ran.  sceleratus,  Linne.  It  is  very  variable  in  size,  smooth,  with  a hollow  stem,  roundish- 
reniform,  three-cleft,  and  lobed  or  toothed  leaves,  small  pale-yellow  flowers,  and  oblong  heads 
of  ovate  and  short  pointed  akenes. 

Constituents. — On  distilling  fresh  crowfoot  with  water  Braconnot  (1818)  obtained 
an  acrid  distillate  having  a radish-like  odor  and  separating  on  standing  thin  glossy  scales ; 
the  distillate  of  Ran.  repens  was  not  acrid.  The  acrid  principle  of  Ran.  sceleratus  was 
found  by  0.  L.  Erdmann  (1859)  to  be  a golden-yellow  volatile  oil,  which  is  readily 
changed  into  anemonin  and  anemonic  acid.  (See  Pulsatilla.)  Basiner  (1881)  observed 
that  petroleum  benzin  does  not  extract  this  yellow  oil  from  the  distillate,  but  that  this  is 
dissolved  by  benzene  and  by  ether ; it  may  be  extracted  from  the  fresh  plant  by  glacial 
acetic  acid,  and  removed  from  this  solution  by  agitation  with  the  liquids  named ; caustic 
alkalies  decompose  the  oil  and  destroy  its  acrid-narcotic  action. 

Action  and  Uses. — Several  of  the  numerous  species  of  Ranunculus  possess  the 
same  qualities  as  R.  bulbosus.  In  its  fresh  state  every  part  of  the  plant  contains  an 
acrid  juice,  and  the  bruised  leaves,  stems,  and  flowers  applied  to  the  skin  occasion  redness 
and  vesication,  and,  if  the  action  is  prolonged,  ulceration  and  even  gangrene.  It  is  stated 
that  in  Europe  this  plant  was  used  by  beggars  to  produce  sores  for  the  purpose  of  excit- 
ing pity  and  procuring  alms.  They  cured  their  sores  by  means  of  mullein-leaves  (Ver- 
bascum  thapsus).  The  oil  of  R.  sceleratus  acts  as  an  acrid  narcotic,  producing,  in  small 
doses,  stupor  and  slow  respiration,  in  larger  doses  also  paralysis  of  the  posterior  and  ante- 
rior extremities,  and  before  death  general  convulsions.  After  death  are  found  gastritis 
and  cortical  hypergemia  of  the  kidneys  (Basiner,  Amer.  Jour,  of  Phar .,  March,  1882,  p. 
130).  The  bruised  fresh  plant  (R.  bulbosus)  has  been  applied  as  a counter-irritant  for 
the  relief  of  chronic  affections  of  the  larynx  and  bronchia , but  more  particularly  of  chronic 
rheumatism  and  sciatica.  It  may  still  be  so  employed  where  other  irritants  are  not  at 
hand.  It  is  not  used  internally.  The  bruised  fresh  flowers  and  buds  of  R.  acris  have 
been  applied  for  similar  purposes.  They  cause  redness  of  the  skin  in  about  an  hour, 
with  painful  swelling,  and  later  on  discrete  and  thin  confluent  blisters,  which  require  ten 
to  fifteen  days  to  heal  (Froelich,  Centralbl.  f.  d.  ges.  Therap .,  iv.  465). 

RESINA,  U.  S.9  Br.— Resin. 

Colophonium , P.  Gr. — Rosin , Colophony , E. ; Colophone,  Arcanson , Fr.  Cod.;  Kolopho- 
nium,  Geigenharz , Gr. ; Colofonia , Fez  griega , Sp. 

The  residue  left  after  distilling  off  the  volatile  oil  from  turpentine. 

Preparation. — The  manner  in  which  rosin  is  obtained  is  briefly  described  on  page 
1157.  The  color  depends  in  a great  measure  on  the  degree  of  heat  used  in  its  manufac- 
ture. From  a communication  of  I.  Zacharias  (1877),  however,  it  appears  that  the  amount 


EE  SIN  A COPAIBAE. 


1365 


of  resin  in  turpentine  increases  with  the  age  of  the  tree,  and  that  the  residuary  product 
of  the  distillation  becomes  darker  in  color,  probably  in  consequence  of  the  greater  heat 
employed  in  distilling  off  the  oil. 

Properties. — Rosin  is  a very  brittle,  pulverizable,  transparent,  or  translucent  resin, 
having  about  the  density  1.070-1.080,  breaking  with  a glossy  and  shallow  conchoidal 
fracture,  nearly  tasteless  and  of  a faint  terebinthinate  odor.  It  varies  in  color  from  a 
pale  amber  to  a dark  red-brown,  and  is  distinguished  in  commerce  by  the  shade  of  its 
color,  the  darkest  being  called  black  rosin.  For  pharmaceutical  purposes  the  amber- 
colored  variety  is  used.  White  rosin  is  a light-colored  variety  which  is  rendered  opaque 
by  containing  water,  on  the  gradual  evaporation  of  which  it  becomes  translucent.  It  dis- 
solves readily  in  ether,  chloroform,  alkalies,  and  in  the  volatile  and  fixed  oils ; at  60°  C. 
(140°  F.)  it  is  slowly  soluble  in  its  own  weight  of  alcohol  or  of  glacial  acetic  acid.  It 
softens  at  the  heat  of  a water-bath,  melts  completely  above  100°  C. — some  varieties  at 
about  135°  C.  (275°  F.) — and  at  a higher  heat  burns  with  a dense  yellow  and  sooty 
flame.  When  heated  to  above  200°  C.  (392°  F.)  it  may  be  distilled  apparently  unchanged, 
with  a current  of  superheated  steam,  but  on  dry  distillation  it  yields  rosin  oil , which  con- 
tains colophene  (see  page  1176),  various  hydrocarbons,  and  other  products  holding  rosin 
in  solution.  Among  the  lower-boiling  fractions  of  this  rosin  oil  Kelbe  and  Warth  (1882) 
have  recognized  caproic,  isobutyric,  oenanthylic,  and  other  acids  of  the  formula  CnH2n02, 
and  Reynard  isolated  amylene,  C5H10,  boiling  near  40°  C.,  hexylene , C6H10,  boiling  near 
70°  C.,  and  several  other  hydrocarbons.  When  rosin  is  mixed  with  lime  and  subjected  to 
distillation  volatile  oils  are  obtained,  from  which,  by  fractional  distillation,  Fremy  isolated 
resinone , C10H18O,  which  is  limpid,  readily  inflammable,  and  boils  at  78°  C.  (172.4°  F.), 
and  resineone , which  is  thicker,  boils  at  148°  C.  (298.4°  F.),  and  seems  to  have  the  com- 
position C30H48O. 

Composition. — According  to  Maly  (1861,  1864),  rosin  is  the  anhydride  of  abietic 
acid , C^H^Os,  and  is  converted  into  the  acid  by  agitation  with  warm  diluted  alcohol. 
Fliickiger  (1867)  obtained  in  this  way  from  80  to  90  per  cent,  of  the  wreight  of  the  rosin. 
Ry  treatment  with  strong  ammonia-water,  passing  through  muslin,  and  decomposing  the 
jelly-like  mass  with  hydrochloric  acid,  Emmerling  (1879)  obtained  it  as  a snow-white 
powder,  and  Kelbe  (1880)  in  rather  long  triclinic  prisms  by  crystallizing  it  from  glacial 
acetic  acid.  Abietic  acid  melts,  without  losing  weight,  at  165°  C.  (329°  F.)  (Maly; 
Kelbe)  ; other  chemists  observed  lower  melting-points.  The  acid  is  often  in  irregular, 
glassy,  crystalline  points  or  white  scales,  has  in  alcoholic  solution  an  acid  reaction,  dis- 
solves in  ether,  benzene,  wood-spirit,  chloroform,  and  carbon  disulphide,  and  yields  with 
bases  amorphous  compounds.  The  pinic  and  sylvic  acid  of  Unverdorben  (1825,  etc), 
Siewert  (1859),  and  others  are  regarded  by  Maly  as  impure  abietic  acid,  but  it  is  not 
unlikely  that,  in  addition  to  this  one,  other  acids  may  be  obtained  from  colophony  of 
different  origin. 

Uses. — Resin  is  not  prescribed  internally.  Sometimes,  however,  the  fumes  of  boiling 
resin  have  been  used  to  impregnate  the  air  breathed  by  persons  suffering  from  chronic 
bronchial  catarrh  unattended  with  fever.  It  is  chiefly  employed  with  essential  oils  to 
render  plasters  adhesive  and  stimulating. 

Dammara  australis  is  the  source  of  Kauri  gum , which,  while  burning,  gives  out  a 
pleasant  smell  and  is  reported  to  neutralize  the  odor  of  putrefying  substances.  Diffused 
through  the  air  in  a fine  spray,  it  renders  the  air  ozonic  (Richardson,  Asclepiad , July, 

1886). 

RESINA  COPAIBA,  U.  S. — Resin  of  Copaiba. 

Acidum  copaibicum. — Copaivic  acid , E. ; Resine  de  copahu,  Acide  copahuvique , Fr.  ; 
Copaivaharz , Ccepaivasaure , Gr. 

The  residue  left  after  distilling  off  the  oil  from  copaiba. 

Preparation. — The  resin  remains  behind  on  evaporating  copaiba  or  on  distilling 
from  it  the  volatile  oil.  (See  Oleum  Copaiba:.)  For  other  processes  of  preparing  the 
resin  see  page  538. 

Properties. — The  resin  is  amorphous,  of  a yellowish  or  brownish-yellow  color,  brittle, 
of  a slight  odor  of  copaiba,  and  is  soluble  in  alcohol,  amylic  alcohol,  ether,  benzene,  vola- 
tile oils,  and  carbon  disulphide.  The  alcoholic  solution  has  an  acid  reaction  and  a some- 
what bitter  and  acrid  taste.  The  resin  is  a mixture,  and  consists,  according  to  the  variety 
of  copaiba  used,  of  copaivic  or  metacopaivic  acid,  mixed  with  more  or  less  of  neutral  resin. 
The  crystallized  copaivic  acid  of  commerce  is  usually  prepared  from  gurjun  balsam  (see 
page  538). 


1366 


RESINA  DR  A CONIS— RESINA  JALAPJE. 


Action  and  Uses. — These  have  been  sufficiently  indicated  under  Copaiba.  Resin 
of  copaiba  has  been  administered  in  the  dose  of  6m.  0.30-1.00  (gr.  v— xv),  but  more 
frequently  in  emulsion.  One  mode  of  preparing  the  latter  is  to  take  3 ounces  of  the 
resin,  softened  by  the  addition  of  half  its  bulk  of  rectified  spirit,  and  rub  it  down  with  4 
ounces  of  compound  tragacanth  powder  (Br.  Ph.)  mixed  with  4 pints  of  water : 1 ounce 
of  this  mixture  contains  12  or  13  grains  of  the  resin,  and  is  given  three  times  daily. 
Another  formula  is  the  following : Resin  of  copaiba  15  grains ; compound  powder  of 
almonds  30  grains;  water  to  f^j. 

RESINA  DRACONIS.— Dragon’s  Blood. 


Bang-dragon,  Fr.  Cod. ; Draclienblut , G. ; Sangre  de  dr  ago,  Sp. 

The  resin  obtained  from  the  fruit  of  Calamus  (Daemonorops,  Blume)  Draco,  Willdenow. 

Nat.  Ord. — Palmae,  Lepidocaryese. 

Origin  and  Production. — This  palm  has  a thin  stem,  which  is  sometimes  90 
M.  (300  feet)  long,  and  climbs  upon  trees  by  means  of  long  spines  situated  on  the  peti- 
oles. Its  small,  globular-ovate,  scaly  fruits  grow  in  dense  panicles,  and  are  covered  with 
a resin  which  exudes  and  hardens  upon  their  surface.  By  beating  and  shaking  the  fruit 
in  a bag  the  resin  breaks  off,  is  mechanically  separated  from  the  fruit,  softened  in  the  sun 
or  by  boiling  water,  and  formed  into  sticks  or  cakes.  Subsequently  the  fruit  is  bruised, 
boiled  with  water,  and  an  inferior  resin  collected  in  cakes.  The  palm  is  indigenous  to 
Borneo  and  Sumatra,  and  grows  in  other  of  the  East  Indian  islands. 

Properties. — Dragon’s  blood  is  seen  in  commerce  occasionally  in  the  form  of  irreg- 
ular grains,  or  more  frequently  in  cakes  or  irregular  masses,  and  in  cylindrical  sticks  which 
are  about  30  Cm.  (12  inches)  long  and  12  Mm.  (^  inch)  or  more  thick,  and  are  wrapped 
in  palm  leaves.  It  is  of  a dark  red-brown  color  on  the  surface,  of  a brighter  red,  glossy, 
and  somewhat  porous  internally,  transparent  in  very  thin  splinters,  and  breaks  with  a 
resinous  but  irregular  fracture,  caused  by  the  fruit-scales  and  other  impurities  which  are 
always  present — in  largest  proportion  usually  in  cake  dragon’s  blood.  Alcohol,  amylic 
alcohol,  benzene,  and  chloroform  dissolve  the  resin  readily,  leaving  the  impurities  behind  ; 
ether  and  oil  of  turpentine  dissolve  it  less  freely,  and  it  is  insoluble  in  petroleum  benzin. 
It  is  inodorous,  but  when  heated  has  a slight  agreeable  odor  resembling  that  of  benzoin ; 
it  is  faintly  sweetish,  otherwise  nearly  tasteless,  and  when  masticated  becomes  pulverulent. 

Composition. — Dragon’s  blood  contains  a little  fat,  and  is  free  from  benzoic  and 
cinnamic  acids,  as  was  shown  by  Hempel  (1846).  It  consists  of  a peculiar  resin,  for 
which  Johnston  (1839)  determined  the  formula  C20H20O2.  By  dry  distillation  Glenard 
and  Boudault  (1844)  obtained  a dark -red  oil  containing  dracyl  — toluene,  C7H8,  and  dra- 
conyl  = styrene,  C8H8.  Hlasiwetz  and  Barth  (1865)  obtained  the  following  decomposition- 
products  by  fusing  the  resin  with  potassa : phloroglucin,  a body  giving  a red  reaction 
with  iron  salts,  and  paraoxybenzoic,  protocatechuic,  and  benzoic  acids — products  which 
are  likewise  obtained  by  treating  benzoin  in  the  same  manner. 

Other  Varieties. — On  wounding  the  stem  of  Pterocarpus  Draco,  Linne , a papilionaceous  tree 
of  the  West  Indies,  or  the  stem  of  Dracaena  Draco,  Linne , a liliaceous  tree  of  the  Canary  Islands, 
exudations  are  obtained  which  resemble  the  dragon’s  blood  described  above.  The  dragon’s  blood 
of  Socotra  is  the  product  of  Dracaena  Ombet,  Kotschy , and  is  sent  to  Arabia  under  the  name  of 
katir.  These  varieties  are  rarely  seen  in  our  market. 


t 

i 


Action  and  Uses. — Dragon’s  blood,  or  sang-dragon,  has  little  or  no  virtue  besides 
its  striking  name.  A certain  degree  of  astringency  probably  led  to  its  use  in  former 
times  in  diarrhoea,  slight  haemorrhage,  etc.  It  is  occasionally  used  as  an  addition  to 
dentifrices,  and  was  formerly  an  ingredient  of  several  plasters.  At  present  it  is  chiefly 
used  for  imparting  a red  color  to  spirit  varnishes  and  for  staining  horn  or  wood ; a mahog- 
any stain  is  obtained  by  dissolving  1 part  each  of  dragon’s  blood  and  aloes  in  15  or  16 
parts  of  alcohol. 


RESINA  JALAPiE,  U.  S*9  JP.  G. — Resin  of  Jalap. 

Jalapse  resina , Br. — Resine  de  jalap,  Fr. ; Jalapenharz , G. 

Preparation. — Jalap,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Alcohol,  Water,  each  a suf- 
ficient quantity.  Moisten  the  powder  with  300  Cc.  of  alcohol,  and  pack  it  firmly  in  a 
cylindrical  percolator ; then  add  enough  alcohol  to  saturate  the  powder  and  leave  a 
stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator  close  the  lower 
orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  forty-eight  hours.  Then 


RESINA  JALAPJE. 


13G7 


allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  alcohol,  until  2500  Cc.  of  tincture  are 
obtained,  or  until  the  tincture  ceases  to  produce  more  than  a slight  turbidity  when 
dropped  into  water.  Distil  off  the  alcohol  by  means  of  a water-bath  until  the  tincture 
is  reduced  to  400  Gm.,  and  add  the  latter,  with  constant  stirring,  to  9000  Cc.  of  water. 
When  the  precipitate  has  subsided  decant  the  supernatant  liquid,  and  wash  the  precipi- 
tate twice,  by  decantation,  with  fresh  portions  of  water.  Place  it  upon  a strainer,  and, 
having  pressed  out  the  liquid,  dry  the  resin  with  a gentle  heat,  stirring  occasionally  until 
the  moisture  has  evaporated. — U S. 

These  directions  are  about  the  same  as  in  the  former  Pharmacopoeia.  The  alcoholic 
tincture  of  the  jalap  containing  the  resin  in  solution  is  concentrated  by  distillation,  and 
this  liquid  while  still  warm  poured  into  water,  stirring  continually,  so  as  to  bring  nearly 
all  particles  of  the  resinous  matter  in  direct  contact  with  water,  whereby  the  solutions 
of  those  constituents  which  are  soluble  in  water  is  facilitated.  After  repeated  washings 
with  fresh  portions  of  water  the  resin  is  collected  and  dried.  By  this  treatment  water 
removes  sugar  and  some  other  principles  of  jalap,  which  are  also  soluble  in  water,  and 
which  possess  some  medicinal  activity  (see  p.  682). 

The  British  Pharmacopoeia  directs  1 part  of  water  for  2 parts  of  jalap  to  be  added  to 
the  percolate,  from  which  nearly  the  whole  of  the  alcohol  may  be  recovered  by  distilla- 
tion. The  residue  while  hot  is  poured  into  an  open  dish  and  allowed  to  cool,  when  the 
liquid  portion  is  decanted,  the  resin  washed  several  times  with  hot  water,  and  dried. 

The  German  Pharmacopoeia  directs  the  jalap  to  be  exhausted  by  digestion  with  alcohol, 
the  tincture  to  be  concentrated,  and  the  resinous  residue  to  be  repeatedly  washed  with 
warm  water  (boiling  water,  Ft.  Cod.,  P.  A. ) as  long  as  this  takes  up  coloring  matter. 
The  resin  may  also  be  obtained  by  depriving  jalap  of  its  principles  soluble  in  hot  water, 
drying  and  powdering  the  residue,  and  exhausting  it  with  alcohol.  Good  jalap  yields 
about  15  per  cent,  of  resin  (not  less  than  12  per  cent.,  U.  /S'.). 

Properties. — llesin  of  jalap  is  in  yellowish-brown  or  brown  masses  or  fragments, 
which  break  with  a glossy  resinous  fracture  and  are  translucent  on  the  edges.  By 
repeated  solution  in  a little  alcohol  and  precipitation  with  water  it  may  be  obtained  nearly 
white.  It  is  very  brittle,  and  readily  reduced  to  powder,  varying  in  color  between  yel- 
lowish- and  light-brown ; it  has  a slight  sweetish  odor  and  a somewhat  acrid  taste,  and  is 
entirely  soluble  in  alcohol,  and  insoluble  in  carbon  disulphide  and  oil  of  turpentine.  Ether 
dissolves  only  a small  portion  of  it,  amounting  to  between  5 and  10  or  sometimes  12  per 
cent.,  as  ascertained  by  C.  D.  Farwell  (1878)  ; on  the  evaporation  of  the  ethereal  solu- 
tion a soft  resinous  mass  is  left,  which  may  be  dissolved  in  potassa  solution,  forming  a 
reddish-brown  liquid,  and  is  precipitated  again  on  the  addition  of  an  acid.  The  resin, 
which  is  insoluble  in  ether,  is  the  convolvulin  of  W.  Mayer,  and  is  soluble  in  potassa  solu- 
tion, but  not  precipitated  on  the  addition  of  an  acid.  (The  chemical  nature  of  this  resin 
and  its  relation  to  allied  resins  have  been  explained  on  pp.  902,  903.) 

Tests. — llesin  of  jalap  should  diminish  but  little  or  not  at  all  in  weight  on  being 
exposed  for  some  time  to  the  heat  of  a water-bath  (absence  of  water).  On  being  tritu- 
rated with  water  it  should  lose  nothing  in  weight,  and  the  liquid  should  not  become  col- 
ored, showing  that  it  has  been  well  washed  with  water.  To  ether  and  to  potassa  solution 
it  should  have  the  behavior  described  above.  Adulterations  with  other  resins  are  proved 
by  the  amount  soluble  in  ether,  which  should  not  exceed  10  per  cent.,  or,  if  they  are 
insoluble  in  ether,  by  the  precipitate  occasioned  with  acids  in  the  potassa  solution.  The 
presence  of  guaiacum  resin  is  indicated  by  a green  or  blue  color  produced  with  strong 
nitric  acid  or  with  tincture  of  ferric  chloride.  An  adulteration  with  resin  may  be 
detected  by  the  solubility  in  oil  of  turpentine,  and  the  presence  of  aloes  manifests  itself 
by  its  bitter  taste  and  the  production  of  picric  acid  when  treated  with  nitric  acid.  “ Water 
triturated  with  it  should  neither  become  colored  nor  take  up  anything  soluble  from  it 
(absence  of  soluble  impurities).  On  digesting  1 Gm.  of  resin  of  jalap  for  about  an  hour, 
under  frequent  agitation,  in  a glass-stoppered  vial,  with  10  Cc.  of  ammonia-water,  at  a 
temperature  of  about  80°  C.  (170°  F.),  it  should  yield  a solution  which  does  not  gelatin- 
ize on  cooling  (absence  of  common  resin).” — U.  IS.  “1  part  of  resin  of  jalap  should 
dissolve  in  5 parts  of  warm  ammonia-water ; on  cooling  the  solution  should  not  gelatin- 
ize (absence  of  colophony),  and  should  remain  clear  after  being  supersaturated  with  an 
acid.” — P.  G.  The  last  part  of  this  test  is  correct  only  for  that  portion  of  jalap  resin 
which  is  insoluble  in  ether ; but  the  pharmacopoeial  resin,  though  completely  soluble  in 
about  8 parts  of  ammonia-water,  yields  with  acids  a precipitate  which  is  again  soluble  in 
ammonia.  The  ammoniacal  solution  of  the  resin,  when  carefully  evaporated  to  dryness 
at  a moderate  heat,  leaves  a residue  which  is  soluble  in  water. 


1368 


RESINA  PODOPHYLLL 


Pharmaceutical  Preparations. — Sapo  jalapinus,  P.  G.  4 parts  each  of  resin 
of  jalap  and  medicinal  (white  Castile)  soap  are  dissolved  in  8 parts  of  alcohol  spec.  grav. 
0.894,  and  the  solution  evaporated  with  constant  stirring  to  the  consistence  of  a pill  mass 
weighing  9 parts.  This  preparation  is  of  a brown-yellow  color,  is  soluble  in  alcohol,  and 
yields  with  about  10  parts  of  water  a nearly  clear  solution,  which  becomes  somewhat 
cloudy,  but  does  not  separate  any  resin. 

Pilule  jalaps,  P.  G.  Mix  jalap  soap  3 parts  and  powdered  jalap-root  1 part.  Each 
pill  is  to  weigh  0.10  Gm.  and  to  be  dusted  with  lycopodium. 

Tinctura  resinas  jalapa:.  Jalap  resin  1 part,  alcohol  10  parts. — P.  G.  1872. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  preparation  contains  all  or  nearly  all  the  purgative  ele- 
ments of  jalap,  and  may  be  prescribed  for  the  same  purposes  in  doses  of  Gm.  0. 2-0.4 
(gr.  iij-vj),  or,  combined  with  other  purgatives,  in  even  smaller  doses.  A valuable  for- 
mula is  the  following  : R Resinae  jalapae  gr.  xxx  ; Pulv.  lycopodii  gr.  x ; Saponis  medic- 
inal. gr.  xc ; Amygd.  dulc.  excort.  gr.  cxx. — M.,  et  in  pil.  No.  cxx  div.  Two  of  these 
pills  produce  one  copious  stool,  and  seven  or  eight  pills  as  many  liquid  evacuations. 

RESINA  PODOPHYLLI,  TJ.  Fr.  Cod . — Resin  of  Podophyllum. 

Podophylli  resina , Br. ; Podophyllinum , P.  G. — Resin  of  May-apple , E. ; Resine  de  podo- 
phyllum, Fr. ; Podophyllumharz , G. ; Podoflina,  Sp. 

Preparation. — Podophyllum,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Hydrochloric  Acid  10 
Cc. ; Alcohol,  Water,  each  a sufficient  quantity.  Moisten  the  powder  with  480  Cc.  of 
alcohol,  and  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator;  then  add  enough  alcohol  to  satu- 
rate the  powder  and  leave  a stratum  above  it.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the 
percolator  close  the  lower  orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for 
forty-eight  hours.  Then  allow  the  percolation  to  proceed,  gradually  adding  alcohol,  until 
1600  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained,  or  until  the  tincture  ceases  to  produce  more  than  a 
slight  turbidity  when  dropped  into  water.  Distil  off  the  alcohol  by  means  of  a water- 
bath  until  the  tincture  is  reduced  to  the  consistence  of  honey,  and  pour  it  slowly,  with 
constant  stirring,  into  1000  Cc.  of  water,  previously  cooled  to  a temperature  below  10°  C. 
(50°  F.),  and  mixed  with  the  hydrochloric  acid.  When  the  precipitate  has  subsided 
decant  the  supernatant  liquid,  and  wash  the  precipitate  twice,  by  decantation,  with  fresh  ' 

portions  of  cold  water.  Spread  it  in  a thin  layer  upon  a strainer,  and  dry  the  resin  by 
exposure  to  the  air  in  a cool  place.  Should  it  coalesce  during  the  drying  or  aggregate 
into  lumps  having  a varnish-like  surface,  it  should  be  removed,  broken  in  pieces,  and 
rubbed  in  a mortar.  As  this  is  liable  to  happen  during  warm  weather,  resin  of  podo- 
phyllum is  preferably  made  during  the  cold  season. — U.  S. 

The  low  temperature  directed  in  the  precipitation  and  drying  is  the  chief  distinction 
from  the  process  of  the  British  Pharmacopoeia,  which  permits  the  resin  to  be  dried  on  a 
stove. 

On  pouring  the  concentrated  tincture  of  podophyllum  into  acidulated  water  the  J 
extractive  matters  remain  in  solution  while  the  resin  is  precipitated.  The  addition  of  j 

hydrochloric  acid  appears  to  exert  no  action  on  the  product,  and  to  be  useful  merely  in 
hastening  the  deposition  of  the  resin  from  the  aqueous  liquid.  Both  the  British  and 
French  Pharmacopoeias  omit  the  hydrochloric  acid.  The  yield  is  between  4 and  5 per 
cent,  of  the  weight  of  podophyllum  used ; by  exhausting  the  rhizome  with  alcohol  of  spe- 
cific gravity  0.930,  G.  H.  C.  Klie  (1877)  claimed  to  have  obtained  as  much  as  7i  per  cent. 

Properties. — The  color  of  resin  of  podophyllum,  when  pure,  is  grayish-white,  with 
a slight  tinge  of  yellow.  To  obtain  it  of  this  shade  it  is  necessary  that  the  resin  be 
precipitated  in  the  cold  and  dried  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  35°  C.  (95°  F.).  If 
a higher  heat  is  used  it  turns  darker,  and  finally  deep-brown.  If  precipitated  in  the 
presence  of  alum  or  other  earth  salt,  the  resin  is  of  a more  decided  yellow  color.  It  dis- 
solves to  a limited  extent  in  carbon  disulphide ; from  15  to  20  per  cent,  of  it  is  soluble  in 
ether,  and  about  80  per  cent,  is  dissolved  by  boiling  water  and  reprecipitated  on  cooling ; 
a small  portion  of  the  resin,  however,  remains  in  solution  in  the  water,  and  this  solution 
has  a bitter  taste,  acquires  a brown  color  on  the  addition  of  ferric  chloride,  and  becomes 
opalescent  and  yellow  with  basic  lead  acetate,  the  mixtures  gradually  separating  orange- 
red  floccules.  Alkaline  liquids  dissolve  the  resin  readily,  yielding  deep-yellow,  after- 
ward brown-yellow,  solutions,  and  deposit  nearly  the  whole  of  it  on  being  supersaturated 
with  an  acid.  According  to  Power,  podophyllum  resin  becomes  soft  at  120°  C.  (248°  F.), 
and  is  completely  melted  at  124°  C.  (255°  F.).  Sulphuric  acid  colors  it  intensely  yellow, 
the  color  changing  to  ptirplish  and  to  brown  on  the  addition  of  a trace  of  nitric  acid. 


RESINA  SCAM  MONTI. 


1369 


Among  the  oxidation-products  by  nitric  acid  are  oxalic  acid  and  an  amorphous  yellow 
substance. 

Composition. — F.  B.  Power  (1877)  observed  that  the  largest  portion  of  the  resin 
consists  of  at  least  four  compounds,  differing  in  their  solubility  in  ether  and  hot  water 
and  in  their  behavior  to  alkalies,  ferric  chloride,  and  lead  acetate ; fused  with  potassa, 
protocatechuic  acid  was  obtained,  but  no  resorcin.  The  official  resin  contains  also  a little 
fatty  matter,  and  yields  a small  proportion  of  ash,  consisting  chiefly  of  sodium  and  potas- 
sium salts.  Podwissotzki  (1880)  obtained  from  podophyllum  resin  yellow  needles  resem- 
bling quercetin,  a green  oil,  a crystalline  fat  acid,  podophyllic  acid  (without  activity,  sol- 
uble in  hot  water),  and  two  poisonous  principles  : one  of  these, podophyllotoxin,  is  obtained 
from  the  concentrated  chloroform  solution  by  treating  it  with  benzin,  which  will  remove 
the  oil  and  fat  acid;  it  has  the  composition  C23H2409  (Kiirsten,  1891),  crystallizes  from 
benzene,  is  white,  very  bitter,  faintly  acid,  sparingly  soluble  in  water,  and  by  treatment 
with  ammonia  yields  podophyllic  acid  and  picropodophyllin.  The  latter  is  intensely 
bitter,  freely  soluble  in  chloroform,  ether,  and,  according  to  Kiirsten,  has  the  same  com- 
position and  yields  the  same  decomposition-products  as  podophyllotoxin,  but  is  more 
sparingly  soluble. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  medicinal  properties  of  this  preparation  have  been  suf- 
ficiently set  forth  elsewhere.  (See  Podophyllum.)  Its  action  and  uses  closely  resemble 
those  of  the  resin  of  jalap.  The  following  formula  is  convenient  for  the  relief  of  habitual 
constipation  : R.  Resin,  podophyll.,  Ext.  belladon.  aii  gr.  iv  ad  gr.  vj  ; Ext.  nucis  vomicae 
alcoholic,  gr.  viij. — M.  et  in  pil.  No.  xij  divid.  S.  One  after  dinner. 

RESINA  SCAMMONII,  U.  S. — Resin  of  Scammony. 

Scammonise  resina , Br.,  Fr.  Cod. ; Resine  de  scammonee , Fr. ; Scammoniaharz,  Gr. ; 
Resina  de  escamonea , Sp. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Scammony,  in  No.  60  powder,  1000  Gm. ; Alcohol,  Water, 
each  a sufficient  quantity.  Digest  the  scammony  with  successive  portions  of  boiling 
alcohol  until  exhausted.  Mix  the  tinctures,  and  reduce  the  mixture  to  a syrupy  con- 
sistence by  distilling  off  the  alcohol.  Then  add  the  residue  in  a thin  stream,  with  active 
stirring,  to  2500  Cc.  of  water,  separate  the  precipitate  formed,  wash  it  thoroughly  with 
water,  and  dry  it  with  a gentle  heat. — U.  S. 

Take  of  scammony-root,  in  coarse  powder,  8 ounces ; rectified  spirit  a sufficiency ; dis- 
tilled water  a sufficiency.  Digest  the  scammony-root  with  16  fluidounces  of  the  spirit  in 
a covered  vessel  at  a gentle  heat  for  twenty-four  hours  ; then  transfer  to  a percolator,  and 
when  the  tincture  ceases  to  pass  add  more  spirit,  and  let  it  percolate  slowly  until  the  root 
is  exhausted.  Add  to  the  tincture  4 fluidounces  of  the  water,  and  distil  off  the  spirit  by 
a water-bath.  Remove  the  residue  while  hot  to  an  open  dish,  and  allow  it  to  become  cold. 
Pour  off  the  supernatant  fluid  from  the  resin,  wash  this  several  times  with  hot  water,  and 
dry  it  on  a porcelain  plate  with  the  heat  of  a stove  or  water-bath.  It  may  be  prepared 
in  a similar  manner  from  scammony. — Br. 

Prof.  Markoe  (1877)  showed  that  the  alcoholic  extract  of  scammony  yields  to  water 
only  2 per  cent,  of  soluble  matter,  which  is  removed  by  washing,  as  directed  in  the  first 
formula.  The  French  GV)dex  directs  the  alcoholic  solution  to  be  treated  with  animal 
charcoal  for  the  purpose  of  removing  most  of  the  coloring  matter.  The  yield  of  resin 
varies  with  the  quality  of  scammony  employed.  The  British  Pharmacopoeia  permits  the 
resin  to  be  prepared  from  scammony  or  from  scammony-root  by  washing  the  alcoholic 
extract  with  hot  water;  the  root  yields  5 to  5£  per  cent,  of  resin. 

Properties. — Scammony  resin  is  of  a brownish  color,  or  yellowish  after  treatment 
with  animal  charcoal.  It  is  brittle,  of  a resinous,  glossy  fracture,  translucent  on  the 
edges,  and  nearly  tasteless,  but  has  a slight  sweetish  odor,  which  is  stronger  and  peculiar, 
somewhat  like  leather,  when  prepared  from  the  root.  It  differs  from  scammony  in  not 
forming  an  emulsion  with  water,  and  in  being  completely  soluble  in  oil  of  turpentine 
and  in  ether.  It  dissolves  in  alcohol,  ammonia-water,  and  warm  potassa  solution,  and 
when  this  alkaline  liquid  is  supersaturated  with  an  acid  it  remains  transparent  and  does 
not  produce  a precipitate.  The  resin  softens  at  about  120°  C.  (248°  F.)  and  fuses  near 
150°  C.  (302°  F.). 

Tests. — The  behavior  to  solvents,  as  described,  distinguishes  scammony  resin  from 
most  other  resins.  If  adulterated  with  guaiacum,  its  alcoholic  solution  would  render  the 
fresh-cut  surface  of  a potato  blue,  and  it  would  acquire  a green  or  blue  color  on  the  addi- 
tion of  chlorine-water  or  ferric  chloride. 


1370 


RESORCIN  UM. 


Constituents. — Except  the  coloring  principle,  scammony  resin  consists  wholly  of 
scammonin , which  in  its  pure  state  is  white,  inodorous,  and  tasteless.  F.  Keller  (1857) 
ascertained  it  to  be  the  anhydride  of  scammonic  acid , which  is  soluble  in  water,  and  on 
being  boiled  with  dilute  acids  is  converted  into  sugar  and  scammonolic  acid.  According 
to  Spirgitis  (1860),  these  compounds  have  the  same  composition,  and  are  identical  with 
jalapin,  jalapic  acid,  and  jalapinolic  acid  (see  page  903). 

Action  and  Uses. — The  action  of  resin  of  scammony  does  not  differ  in  kind,  but 
only  in  degree,  from  that  of  scammony  itself,  but  the  resin  is  about  twice  as  strong  as 
scammony.  In  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.50  (gr.  viij)  it  occasions  colic  and  watery  stools,  very 
much  as  jalap  does,  but  is  more  apt  than  the  latter  to  excite  rectal  irritation.  Being 
nearly  insipid,  it  may  conveniently  be  given  to  children.  It  is  seldom  used  alone,  but  is 
frequently  associated  with  calomel,  jalap,  etc.  in  cases  of  constipation  and  abdominal 
dropsy , and  also  as  a vermifuge  for  lumbricoid  ascarides. 

It  may  be  prescribed  in  doses  of  from  Gm.  0.30-1  (gr.  v-xv),  and  should  be  made 
into  an  emulsion  with  milk,  almonds,  mucilage,  or  other  demulcent,  and  sweetened.  The 
following  formula  is  convenient:  R.  Resin,  scammon.  gr.  viij;  rub  with  Sacch.  alb. 
gr.  xlv  ; mix  gradually  with  Lact.  vaccin.  f^iv  ; Aq.  laurocerasi  f^j. — M.  S.  One  or  two 
tablespoonfuls  every  hour. 

RESQRCINUM,  U.  S.,  P.  G.— Resorcin. 

Resorcinol , Metadioxybenzcne , E. ; Resorcine , Fr. ; Resorcin , G. ; Resorcina , Sp. 

Formula  C6H4(OH)2.  Molecular  weight  109.74. 

A diatomic  phenol ; it  should  be  kept  in  dark  amber-colored  vials. — U.  S. 

Origin. — Resorcin  wa§  discovered  by  Hlasiwetz  and  Barth  (1864)  on  melting  gal- 
banum,  ammoniac,  or  gipiiacum  resin  with  potassa.  It  is  produced  in  a similar  manner 
from  asafetida,  sagapenum,  ascaroid  resin,  and  from  phenol-sulphonic  acid  and  other 
derivatives  of  phenol ; likewise  on  the  dry  distillation  of  extract  of  Brazil-wood. 

Preparation. — The  alcoholic  extract  of  ammoniac  or  galbanum  is  carefully  fused 
with  three  times  its  weight  of  potassa  until  the  mass  has  become  homogeneous,  when  it 
is  dissolved  in  water,  the  solution  slightly  acidulated  with  sulphuric  acid,  filtered,  and 
agitated  with  ether.  On  evaporating  the  ether,  impure  resorcin  is  left ; the  volatile  fatty 
acids  present  are  combined  with  baryta,  and  the  resorcin  is  dissolved  by  ether  and  further 
purified  by  distillation  and  recrystallization. 

Resorcin  is  now  manufactured  on  a large  scale  from  benzene : the  latter  is  heated  with 
about  four  times  its  weight  of  fuming  sulphuric  acid  to  275°  C.  (527°  F.),  whereby 
benzene  metadisulphonic  acid  is  formed  (C6H4(HS03)2).  When  cool  the  acid  is  dissolved 
in  water  and  neutralized  with  milk  of  lime ; after  removal  of  calcium  sulphate  by  means 
of  a filter-press,  sodium  carbonate  is  added,  the  mixture  again  filtered,  and  the  solution 
of  sodium  benzene-metadisulphonate  evaporated  to  dryness.  The  sodium  salt  thus  ob- 
tained is  heated  for  eight  or  nine  hours  at  270°  C.  (518°  F.)  with  two  and  a half  times 
its  weight  of  caustic  soda,  sodium  resorcin,  C6H4(ONa)2  being  formed,  together  with  sodium 
sulphite.  Continued  boiling  of  a solution  of  the  saline  mass  expels  the  sulphurous  acid, 
and  the  tar-like  residue  is  then  extracted  with  ether,  which  latter,  upon  distillation,  leaves 
impure  resorcin.  By  sublimation  or  recrystallization  from  water  or  benzene  pure  resorcin 
is  obtained. 

Properties. — Resorcin  crystallizes  in  colorless  or  faintly  reddish  short,  rhombic 
prisms  or  plates,  which  have  a faint  peculiar  odor  and  an  unpleasantly  sweet  and  some- 
what acrid  taste.  On  exposure  to  light  and  air  it  becomes  reddish.  Soluble,,  at  15°  C. 
(59°  F.),  in  0.6  part  of  water  and  in  0.5  part  of  alcohol ; very  soluble  in  boiling  water 
or  in  boiling  alcohol ; also  readily  soluble  in  ether  or  glycerin ; very  slightly  soluble  in 
chloroform,  carbon  disulphide,  benzin,  and  benzene.  When  heated  to  a temperature 
between  110°  and  119°  C.  (230°— 246.2°  F.),  resorcin  melts,  a higher  melting-point  indi- 
cating a greater  degree  of  purity.  Pure  resorcin  boils  at  276.5°  (530°  F.).  The  aque- 
ous solution  is  neutral  or  has  only  a faintly  acid  reaction  upon  litmus-paper.  On  adding 
a few  drops  of  ferric  chloride  test-solution  to  10  Cc.  of  a dilute  aqueous  solution  (1  in 
200)  of  resorcin,  the  liquid  assumes  a bluish-violet  color.  If  0.1  Gm.  of  resorcin  be 
dissolved  in  1 Cc.  of  potassium  hydroxide  test-solution,  and  a drop  of  chloroform  added, 
the  mixture,  upon  being  heated,  will  assume  an  intense  crimson  color.  If  a slight  excess 
of  hydrochloric  acid  be  then  added,  the  color  will  change  to  a pale  straw-yellow.  On 
cautiously  heating  0.05  Gm.  of  resorcin  with  0.1  Gm.  of  tartaric  acid  and  10  drops  of 
concentrated  sulphuric  acid,  a thick  carmine-red  liquid  will  be  formed,  becoming  pale 


RESORCINUM. 


1371 


yellow  when  diluted  with  water.  It  burns  with  a bright  flame,  without  leaving  any 
residue.  Its  solution  is  transiently  colored  violet  by  chlorinated  lime  ; with  ferric  chloride 
it  becomes  purplish-black,  the  color  disappearing  by  ammonia ; with  copper  sulphate  and 
ammonia  the  solution  turns  black.  Resorcin  precipitates  metallic  silver  from  ammoniacal 
solution  of  silver  nitrate.  Its  solution  in  ammonia  when  exposed  to  the  air  turns  rose- 
red  and  brown,  and,  when  heated,  green  and  blue,  this  color  being  changed  to  red  by 
acids.  The  aqueous  solution  of  resorcin  yields  with  bromine-water  needles  of*  tribrom- 
resorcin,  C6Br3H(OH)2. 

Tests. — When  carefully  heated  in  a test-tube,  resorcin  should  melt  to  a clear  colorless 
liquid ; on  increasing  the  heat  it  should  volatilize,  producing  white  vapors,  and  leaving 
no  residue  or  merely  a minute  amount  of  charcoal.  Heated  in  a porcelain  or  platinum 
dish,  it  should  volatilize  without  residue.  A concentrated  aqueous  solution  (1  in  2)  of 
resorcin  should  be  colorless  (absence#  of  empyreumatic  bodies),  and  when  gently  heated 
should  not  emit  the  odor  of  phenol. 

Chemically,  resorcin  is  a dihydroxybenzene  of  which  three  varieties  have  been  obtained, 
named,  respectively,  ortho-,  meta-,  and  para-dioxybenzene ; the  first  is  known  as  catechol 
or  pyrocatechin,  the  second  as  resorcinol  or  resorcin,  and  the  third  as  hydroquinol. 

Unfortunately,  the  name  resorcinol  has  recently  (1893)  also  been  applied  to  a compound 
obtained  by  heating  to  the  point  of  fusion  a mixture  of  equal  parts  of  resorcin  and  iodo- 
form ; it  is  an  amorphous  coffee-colored  substance  of  an  iodine-like  odor  and  disagreeable 
taste. 

Allied  and  Derivative  Compounds. — Hydroquinol,  Hydroquinone,  Ilydrochinone,  Paradioxy- 
benzene. — This  isomer  of  resorcin  was  discovered  by  Wohler  (1844).  It  may  be  obtained  by 
the  dry  distillation  of  kinic,  succinic,  and  oxysalicylic  acids,  but  is  usually  prepared  by  oxida- 
tion of  aniline  with  potassium  dichroipate  and  sulphuric  acid,  and  subsequent  reduction  of  the 
quinone  formed  by  sulphurous  acid.  Hydroquinol  forms  long  colorless  and  odorless  dimorphous 
crystals,  which  have  a sweetish  taste  and  melt  at  169°  C.  (336.2°  F.).  It  is  soluble  in  about 
IT  parts  of  water  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  and  very  soluble  in  hot  water,  alcohol,  and  ether.  With 
ferric  chloride  hydroquinol  in  strong  solution  yields  green  quinhydrone,  or,  if  the  iron  be  added 
in  excess,  yellow  quinone  ; these  reactions  distinguish  it  from  resorcin. 

Catechol,  Pyrocatechin,  Orthodioxybenzene. — This,  the  third  of  the  group  of  isomerides 
having  the  general  formula  C6II4(OH)2  is  contained  among  the  products  of  the  destructive  dis- 
tillation of  several  tannins  and  vegetable  extracts ; it  may  also  be  obtained  by  fusing  ortho- 
phenolsulphonic  acid  with  caustic  potassa  for  some  time  at  320°-360°  C.  (608°-680°  F.)  ; but  the 
best  process  for  manufacturing  it  is  to  heat  guaiacol  to  195°-200°  C.  (383°-392°  F.),  and  then 
passing  in  hydriodic  acid  as  long  as  methyliodide  distils  over.  Catechol  occurs  in  acicular 
crystals,  readily  soluble  in  water,  alcohol,  ether,  and  hot  toluene,  melting  at  104°  C.  (219.2°  F.) 
and  boiling  at  245°  C.  (473°  F.).  With  ferric  chloride  it  strikes  an  emerald-green  color  which 
on  addition  of  sodium  bicarbonate  is  changed  to  a beautiful  violet-red. 

Thioresorcin,  C6H402S2,  is  a yellowish  non-crystallizing  powder,  readily  soluble  in  solutions 
of  the  alkali  hydroxides,  carbonates,  and  sulphides,  but  insoluble  in  other  solvents.  It  is  ob- 
tained by  heating  1 molecule  of  resorcin  with  3 molecules  each  of  sulphur  and  sodium  hydroxide, 
with  addition  of  water  until  solution  results ; upon  acidulating  the  solution,  amorphous  yellow 
flocculi  separate,  which  may  be  purified  by  resolution  in  alkalies  and  subsequent  addition  of 
acid. 

Resopyrine.  When  30  parts  of  antipyrine  and  lBparts  of  resorcin,  each  dissolved  in  three 
times  its  weight  of  water,  are  mixed,  a crystalline  mass  separates,  which  upon  resolution  in 
alcohol  may  be  obtained  in  rhombic  crystals.  To  this  compound  the  name  resopyrine  has  been 
given.  It  is  odorless  and  has  a faintly  pungent  taste  ; insoluble  in  water,  but  soluble  in  5 parts 
of  alcohol,  30  parts  of  chloroform,  or  100  parts  of  ether.  It  differs  chemically  from  resorcin  in 
not  forming  a precipitate  with  lead  subacetate,  nor  a blue  color  with  ferric  chloride. 

Fluorescein,  or  Resorcin-phtalein,  C20II15O5,  is  obtained  by  fusing  together  resorcin  and  phtalic 
anhydride  •,  it  occurs  as  dark-brown  crystals,  which  form  with  ammonia  a red  solution,  exhibit- 
ing a beautiful  green  fluorescence.  Recommended  for  the  diagnosis  of  corneal  lesions  and 
detection  of  minute  foreign  bodies  imbedded  in  that  tissue.  When  an  aqueous  solution  is 
dropped  upon  the  cornea,  those  parts,  however  small,  which  are  deprived  of  their  epithelium 
are  colored  green,  while  foreign  bodies  are  surrounded  by  a green  ring  (Straub). 

Action  and  Uses. — In  the  course  of  two  hours  Andeer  took  about  Gm.  10  (160 
grains)  of  resorcin  dissolved  in  a quart  of  water.  He  was  found  fast  asleep,  but  had* 
no  recollection  of  how  he  fell  asleep.  Subsequently,  he  took  the  same  quantity  of  the 
drug  dissolved  in  a pint  of  water  in  the  space  of  a quarter  of  an  hour.  He  perceived 
flashes  before  his  eyes,  his  sight  grew  dim,  his  eyelids  heavy ; his  hearing  and  smell  were 
completely  obtunded ; his  mouth  was  pasty  and  his  tongue  thick.  He  fell  to  the  floor 
bathed  in  a cold  sweat,  and  his  feet  were  also  cold.  Then  convulsions  came  on,  respira- 
tion grew  panting  and  sighing,  and  later  spasmodic  flexion  of  the  limbs  occurred,  with 


1372 


BESORCINUM. 


opisthotonos.  After  five  hours  of  treatment  consciousness  returned,  but  no  memory  of 
the  attack  remained.  On  the  following  day  restoration  to  health  was  complete.  Dr. 
Murrell  relates  ( Times  and  Gaz .,  Oct.  1881,  p.  486)  the  case  of  a woman  who  took  120 
grains  of  resorcin,  and  almost  immediately  became  giddy,  and  then  insensible.  She  was 
pale  and  cold,  drenched  in  sweat ; the  pupils  were  equal,  and  the  pulse  and  chest  move- 
ments almost  imperceptible ; the  limbs  were  relaxed ; there  was  no  reflex  action  and  no 
spasm ; the  axillary  temperature  was  95°  F.  Recovery  took  place  within  twenty-four 
hours.  The  first  urine  she  passed  presented  an  olive-green  color.  The  occurrence  of 
convulsions  in  the  one  case  and  their  absence  in  the  other  case  deserve  notice.  A case 
of  poisoning  by  thioresorcin  applied  to  an  ulcer  has  been  recorded  by  Amon  ( Therap . 
Monatsh.,  iii.  534). 

Resorcin  has  the  power  of  retarding  or  preventing  fermentation  and  putrefaction.  A 
solution  of  1 per  cent.,  it  is  said,  will  maintain  the  acidity  of  normal  urine  for  a month 
(Andeer).  But,  according  to  Platt,  the  antiseptic  power  of  resorcin  is  greatly  inferior 
to  that  of  carbolic  acid  (Amer.  Jour,  of  Med.  Sci.,  Jan.  1883,  p.  89).  Nevertheless,  it  is 
certain  that  a solution  of  the  strength  just  mentioned  has  preserved  from  decomposition 
such  substances  as  pancreas,  blood,  and  urine,  and  arrested  commencing  putrefaction  in 
them.  Andeer  claims  not  only  that  it  is  equal  to  carbolic  and  pyrogallic  acids  in  anti- 
septic virtues,  but  that  it  has  over  them  the  great  advantage  of  not  acting  poisonously 
when  locally  applied,  and  also  of  not  attacking  metallic  instruments.  It  promotes  heal- 
ing by  the  first  intention  of  punctured  or  incised  wounds,  and  when  applied  to  artificially- 
infected  wounds  of  the  cornea,  conjunctiva,  gums,  etc.  it  destroys  micro-organisms  and 
promotes  the  healing  of  such  wounds.  A 1 or  2 per  cent,  solution  does  not  irritate  the 
integuments  nor  cause  any  eruption.  It  is  as  well  tolerated  as  any  other  antiseptic  by 
the  respiratory  tract. 

According  to  Lichtheim  ( Monthly  Abst .,  Dec.  1880,  p.  120 ; Bull,  de  Therap .,  ci.  139), 
if  from  30  to  45  grains  of  this  substance  are  given  to  a patient  in  high  fever , almost 
immediately  a sort  of  intoxicated  excitement  takes  place,  either  wild  or  muttering,  with 
tremor  of  the  hands.  It,  however,  is  transient,  and  is  followed  by  profuse  diaphoresis, 
with  subsidence  of  the  pulse  and  temperature.  It  is  said  to  produce  such  effects  more 
quickly  than  salicylic  acid  or  quinine,  but  that  their  duration  is  brief.  It  is  not  claimed 
that  this  medicine  shortens  the  duration  of  idiopathic  fever  or  of  serious  inflammations ; 
and  one  is  therefore  at  a loss  to  conjecture  why  the  sick  should  be  made  the  subjects  of 
physiological  experiments  with  it.  In  typhoid  fever  and  other  febrile  diseases  it  was  used 
without  advantage  by  Dujardin-Beaumetz,  who  pronounced  it  too  poisonous  to  be  safe  as 
an  internal  medicine  (Bull,  de  Therap .,  cix.  145)  ; and  Brieger  judged  it  similarly  (Zeit- 
schrift  f.  Min.  Med .,  v.  146).  The  former  tested  it  in  acute  articular  rheumatism , and 
found  that  it  was  not  comparable  with  salicylic  preparations.  The  statements  made  of 
its  efficacy  in  puerperal  and  periodical  fevers  (by  Andeer  and  Right)  and  erysipelas  have 
not  been  confirmed.  Some  lauded  it  in  all  the  various  forms  of  functional  gastric  disease, 
which  seem  to  be  more  common  in  Germany  than  elsewhere  (catarrh,  dilatation,  etc.), 
while  Andeer  did  not  so  much  depend  upon  it  to  check  gastric  fermentation  as  to  pro- 
mote the  healing  of  abrasions  and  ulcers  of  the  mucous  membrane  of  the  stomach,  and 
to  moderate  the  destructive  process  in  cancer  of  that  organ  ( Zeitschrift  f.  Min.  Med. , ii. 
297).  It  has  been  used  with  more  or  less  advantage  to  deodorize  and  disinfect  fetid 
stools. 

Topically,  resorcin  is  more  distinctly  useful.  A solution  of  the  strength  of  from  1 to 
3 per  cent,  has  been  found  efficient  in  moderating  mucous  profluvia  from  the  nostrils , ears, 
vagina , urethra , etc.,  and  in  removing  their  fetor.  It  has  been  found  efficient  in  chronic 
purulent  otitis  of  the  middle  ear  when  applied  pure  or  mixed  with  7 parts  of  boric  acid. 
In  gonorrhoea  Brieger  used  a 5 per  cent,  solution.  It  was  very  painful,  and  did  not  cure 
the  complaint,  probably  because  the  solution  was  needlessly  strong.  The  claim  made  by 
Moncorvo  in  1885,  that  the  application  of  resorcin  to  the  fauces  and  larynx  arrested  the 
development  of  whooping  cough , has  been  confirmed  by  many  observers,  of  whom  several 
saw  in  the  apparent  results  proof  of  the  parasitic  nature  of  the  disease.  It  appears  more 
♦ probable  that  the  remedy  (like  many  others)  merely  obtunds  the  sensibility  of  the  larynx, 
and  of  its  frequent  utility,  whether  applied  in  spray  or  with  a brush,  there  can  be  little 
doubt,  and  quite  as  little  that  its  failure  is  sometimes  complete.  When  given  internally 
in  solution  it  must  during  deglutition  act  locally  as  well.  Of  the  most  favorable  reports 
may  be  mentioned  those  of  Concetti  ( Therap . Gaz.,  xiii.  843),  Leblond  (Amer.  Jour.  Med. 
Sci.,  xcix.  74),  and  Barlow  ( Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  Feb.  1890,  p.  198).  A 2 or  3 
per  cent,  solution  is  recommended  for  local  application,  on  sponge  or  in  spray,  at  intervals 


RESORCINUM. 


1373 


of  two  or  three  hours.  A similar  or  a stronger  solution  has  been  used  for  the  relief  of 
chronic  aphonia , to  stimulate  chronic  ulcers  of  the  larynx , and  to  treat  gangrene  and  morbid 
growths  within  this  organ  and  elsewhere,  especially  for  the  relief  of  pain  in  them.  Accord- 
ing to  Weiss  {Med.  Record , xxx.  597),  the  inoculation  of  phlegmon  with  resorcin,  followed 
by  the  application  of  an  ointment  containing  the  preparation,  will  cause  the  inflammation 
to  abort.  In  a case  of  carbunculous  boils  occupying  a large  part  of  the  arm  a rapid  cure 
followed  the  application  of  a thick  layer  of  “ resorcin  ointment  and  vaseline  in  equal 
parts  ” {Bull,  de  Therap .,  civ.  325).  It  has  been  used  to  lessen  the  sensibility  of  parts  to 
be  topically  treated  ; e.  g.  the  nostrils,  the  larynx,  the  urethra,  vagina,  etc.  In  this  way  it 
is  alleged  to  have  relieved  persistent  vomiting.  Andeer  claims  for  it  the  power  of  arresting 
the  development  of  sea-sickness  when  taken  in  the  dose  of  12  to  24  grains,  and  of  palliating 
the  symptoms  after  they  are  developed  {Therap.  Gaz .,  xii.  190).  He  states  that  it  is 
equally  efficient  in  relieving  this  symptom  when  produced  by  hepatic  or  renal  colic,  by 
menstruation,  pregnancy,  indigestion,  gastric  ulcer,  alcoholic  debauch,  etc.  {Therap. 
Monatsh .,  iv.  56).  It  also  serves  as  a palliative  of  the  pain  and  as  a wholesome  stimulant 
in  frostbite , simple  and  specific  ulcers,  fissures,  etc.,  and  in  like  manner  is  useful  in  treating 
various  diseases  of  the  skin,  both  acute  and  chronic,  such  as  erysipelas,  erythema,  eczema, 
psoriasis,  etc.,  the  strength  of  the  ointment  being  greatest  in  the  chronic  affections.  Thus 
a strong  ointment  (10  to  50  per  cent.)  is  required  for  herpes  tonsurans,  alopecia  areata , and 
pityriasis  versicolor.  Unna  {Cemtralbl.fi  Ther.,  viii.  43)  for  eczema  recommends  a 1-2  per 
cent,  solution.  In  some  cases  he  prefers  the  “ plaster  mull  ” as  maintaining  a more  pro- 
longed and  vigorous  action.  Andeer  highly  commends  the  caustic  treatment  of  chancres 
by  means  of  crystals  of  resorcin  or  a saturated  ethereal  solution  of  them.  Favorable 
reports  are  also  furnished  by  Lebland,  Fissiaux,  and  Bombin  {Med.  News,  xlii.  384 ; xliii. 
266).  Papilloma  and  other  outgrowths  of  the  mucous  membrane  have  been  destroyed 
by  this  caustic,  which  Andeer  declares  to  be  sure  and  painless.  Myomas  of  the  eye  and 
larynx  are  said  to  have  been  cured  by  resorcin.  It  is  even  claimed  that  in  crystals  or  in 
powder  it  displays  its  greatest  virtue  in  the  diphtheria  of  wounds,  and  especially  of  the 
mouth  and  pharynx.  “ In  one  week,  at  the  latest,”  says  Andeer,  “ the  severest  form  of 
this  disease  is  wholly  cured,  and  without  any  evil  consequences.”  This  statement  has 
received  partial  confirmation,  but  the  weight  of  testimony  is  opposed  to  it. 

Resorcin  may  be  given  internally  in  doses  of  from  Grin.  0.06—0.25  (1  to  4 grains),  and 
gradually  increased  to  five  or  even  ten  times  that  quantity.  It  is  best  administered  in 
syrup  or  emulsion.  For  atomized  inhalation  and  for  injecting  cavities  a solution  of  i 
to  1 per  cent,  may  be  used;  but  in  phagedena,  syphilis,  etc.  a saturated  solution  or  the 
crystals  is  preferable.  In  erythematous  and  erysipelatous  complications  a resorcin-vaseline 
ointment  may  be  applied.  The  following  formulae  may  be  used : Resorcin  ^j-^iij,  Glycerin 
or  Vaseline  §j,  for  topical  use:  Resorcin  gr.  x-xx,  Water  f^j,  as  a vaginal  injection: 
Resorcin  gr.  40-300,  Water  f^j,  for  hypodermic  administration.  The  proper  antidote 
for  the  poisonous  effects  of  resorcin  is  alcohol. 

The  action  of  Hydroquinone  is  analogous  to  that  of  resorcin,  but  is  much  more  power- 
ful. Dr.  Kinnicutt  found  that  single  doses  of  10  and  20  grains  produced  no  appreciable 
symptoms  in  healthy  persons.  The  pulse,  respiration,  and  temperature  were  unaffected. 
A single  dose  of  40  grains  was  followed  in  ten  minutes  by  a feeling  of  slight  fulness  in 
the  head  and  dizziness,  which  disappeared  in  fifteen  minutes. 

Seifert  found  that  in  daily  quantities  of  from  Gm.  1-6  (sr.  xv-xc),  hydrochinone 
exercised  a favorable  antipyretic  influence,  and  without  any  drawbacks,  in  typhoid  fever, 
pneumonia,  scarlatina , pleurisy , and  phthisis,  and  that  it  maintained  clearness  of  the  mind 
and  senses.  In  typhoid  fever  he  observed  that  a dose  of  Gm.  1.  (gr.  xv)  would  cause  a 
fall  of  temperature  of  from  1.8°  to  3.6°  F.,  and  sometimes  much  mo, re  than  this.  Dr. 
Kinnicutt  {loc.  cit.')  confirmed  these  observations  in  cases  of  general  tuberculosis,  erysipe- 
las, and  septicaemia,  and  noted  that  the  pulse  and  respiration  subsided  along  with  the 
temperature.  He  also  observed  that  the  medicine  rendered  the  urine  greenish-brown  or 
dark-brown.  As  a general  conclusion  he  stated  that  hydroquinone  is  a safe  and  efficient 
antipyretic,  but  that  it  does  not  arrest  or  abridge  the  specific  febrile  process.  It  may 
therefore  be  added  to  the  list  of  agents  which  have  been  employed  for  the  same  purpose, 
but  whose  real  utility  in  the  treatment  of  febrile  diseases  has  never  been  demonstrated. 

Hydroquinone  has  been  given  in  doses  of  from  Gm.  1-1.25  (gr.  xv-xx)  to  control  the 
febrile  exacerbations  in  phthisis.  Where  there  is  a tendency  to  a continuously  high  tem- 
perature, as  in  pneumonia,  three  or  four  such  doses  may  be  administered  in  the  course  of 
twenty-four  hours.  By  the  rectum  the  dose  should  be  twice  as  large  as  that  by  the 
mouth. 


1374 


REA  MNUS  CA  THA R TICUS. 


Pyrocatechin  has  been  tried  as  an  antipyretic,  but  on  account  of  its  mischievous 
effects  was  laid  aside. 

Resopyrine,  on  account  of  its  constituents,  was  expected  to  be  useful,  but  it  did  not 
answer  the  expectations  entertained. 

Thioresorcin  was  applied  to  the  same  purposes  as  iodoform  as  a powder  and  in  oint- 
ments, but  it  turned  out  to  be  far  from  useful  or  even  harmless. 

RHAMNUS  OATHARTICUS.— Buckthorn. 

Fructus  rhanrmi  catharticse,  s.  Baccse  spinse  cervinse , P.  G.  ; Nerprun  purgatif,  Fr. ; 
Kreuzdorn , Gr.  ; Ramno  catartico , Espina  cerval , Sp. 

The  fruit  of  Rhamnus  catharticus,  Linne , s.  Cervispina  cathartica,  Moench.  Bentley 
and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 64. 

Nat.  Ord. — Bhamnaceae. 

Origin  and  Description. — The  buckthorn  is  a branching  shrub  growing  in  thick- 
ets throughout  the  greater  part  of  Europe  and  in  Siberia,  and  is  naturalized  to  some 
extent  and  cultivated  for  hedges  in  North  America.  It  has  ovate,  minutely  serrate,  and 
frequently  fasciculate  leaves,  small,  yellowish-green,  dioecious  flowers  in  umbellate  clus- 
ters, and  black,  glossy,  globular  four-celled  drupes  about  8 Mm.  (i  inch)  in  diameter, 
furnished  at  the  base  with  the  persistent  eight-rayed  calyx-disk,  and  containing  four  hard, 
dark-brown,  deeply-grooved  seeds  enclosed  in  a parchment-like  shell.  The  dried  fruit  is 
deeply  and  somewhat  reticulately  wrinkled  from  the  shrinking  of  the  sarcocarp.  In  the 
fresh  state  it  contains  a greenish  or  purplish-green  sarcocarp,  and  yields  by  expression  a 
purplish-colored  juice  having  an  acid  reaction,  an  unpleasant  odor,  and  a disagreeable, 
bitter,  and  rather  acrid  taste.  The  color  becomes  red  on  the  addition  of  an  acid,  and 
greenish-yellow  when  rendered  alkaline. 

Constituents. — The  various  analyses  of  buckthorn-berries  have  furnished  the  cathar- 
tic principle  rhamnocaihartin  in  the  form  of  an  amorphous,  translucent,  yellowish,  brittle 
mass,  which  Binswanger  (1849)  and  Winckler  did  not  succeed  in  crystallizing.  This  has 
the  taste  of  the  berries,  is  fusible,  dissolves  in  water  and  alcohol,  is  insoluble  in  ether,  is 
not  destroyed  during  the  fermentation  of  the  juice,  and  yields  picric  acid  when  oxidized 
with  nitric  acid.  The  juice  contains  also  a peculiar  variety  of  tannin,  sugar,  gum,  and 
rhamnin , which  crystallizes  in  yellowish  neutral  and  inodorous  granules  or  needles,  has 
little  taste,  dissolves  in  cold  water  and  alcohol,  and  is  insoluble  or  nearly  so  in  ether, 
chloroform,  benzene,  and  carbon  disulphide.  Its  solution  is  rendered  olive-green  by  ferric 
chloride,  and  deep-green,  or  with  an  excess  red-brown,  by  chlorinated  lime.  Dilute  acids 
split  it  readily  into  a non-fermentable  sugar,  a gummy  substance,  and  rhamnetin.  This 
crystallizes  readily  from  phenol  in  golden-yellow  scales,  is  sparingly  soluble  in  water, 
somewhat  more  soluble  in  alcohol  and  ether,  and  is  colored  green-brown  or  black  by  iron 
salt. 

Allied  Drugs. — Rhamnus  infectoria,  LinnA. — French  berries,  E. ; Graines  d’ Avignon,  Fr. ; 
Gelbbeeren,  G. — The  shrub  grows  in  Southern  Europe,  and  the  berries  resemble  buckthorn- 
berries  in  size  and  appearance,  but  are  of  a brownish  or  greenish-brown  color,  and  are  usually 
two-  or  three-furrowed. 

Rhamnus  amygdalina,  Desfontaines , Rh.  saxatilis,  Linn#,  and  probably  other  species  growing 
in  Western  Asia,  South-eastern  Europe,  and  Northern  Africa,  yield  the  so-called  Persian  berries. 
They  resemble  the  preceding,  but  are  of  a more  greenish  and  internally  yellowish  color,  and  con- 
tain pale-brown  seeds  having  a broad  furrow.  These  and  French  berries  contain  one  or  more 
yellow  coloring  principles,  the  principal  one  being  probably  xanthorhamnin , C48H66029,  which, 
according  to  Liebermann  (1878),  is  split  by  acids  into  rhamnose  or  isodulcit  (see  Quercus  Tinc- 
toria)  and  rhamnetin,  C12H10O5.  (See  also  Frangula,  p.  755.) 

Sap-green  is  prepared  from  unripe  buckthorn-berries  by  bruising  and  fermenting  them,  ex- 
pressing the  juice,  adding  alum  and  potash,  and  evaporating. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparation.— Sirop  de  nerprun,  Fr.  Cod.;  Sirupus  rhamni  eatharticae, 
P.  G. — Syrup  of  buckthorn,  E. ; Syrupus  de  rhamno  cathartico,  Fr. ; Kreuzdornbeeren-syrup,  G. ; 
Jarape  de  ramno,  Sp. — The  bruised  fresh  berries  are  allowed  to  ferment  until  the  filtrate  ceases 
to  be  precipitated  by  half  its  volume  of  alcohol ; then  dissolve  13  parts  of  sugar  in  7 parts  ot  the 
expressed  and  filtered  juice. — P.  G.  It  has  a purplish-red  color.  In  Great  Britain  it  is  customary 
to  digest  ginger  and  pimento  in  the  juice  before  adding  the  sugar. 

Medical  Uses. — This  drug  is  employed  in  making  the  syrup  of  buckthorn,  of 
which  the  purgative  dose  is  from  f^ss  to  f^j.  The  fresh  berries  and  their  expressed 
juice' are  hydragogue  cathartics,  occasioning  thirst,  tormina,  and  nausea.  They  have 
been  used  in  the  treatment  of  dropsy.  Their  juice  is  said  to  have  been  employed  as  a 
popular  mouth-wash  for  the  relief  of  toothache. 


RHAMNUS  PURSHIANA. 


1375 


RHAMNUS  PURSHIANA,  U.  S.— Cascara  Sagrada. 

Rhamni  Purshiani  cortex , Br. — Sacred  bark , Cliittem  bark , E. 

The  bark  of  Rhamnus  Purshiana,  De  Candolle.  Hooker,  Flora  Boreali-americana , 

Plate  43. 

Aa/.  6bv/. — Rhamnaceae. 

Origin. — Rhamnus  Purshiana  is  indigenous  to  the  Pacific  coast  of  North  America 
from  the  British  possessions  southward  to  Northern  California;  from  there,  southward,  R. 
californica,  Esclischoltz , takes  its  place,  and  this  is  often  found  in  commerce  in  place  of 
the  true  cascara  sagrada.  The  species  yielding  the  official  bark  is  a shrub  or  small  tree 
growing  to  the  height  of  4.5-6  M.  (15  to  20  feet),  and  having  somewhat  pubescent 
twigs;  the  leaves  are  from  5-15  Cm.  (2  to  6 inches)  long,  thin,  dull  in  color,  broadly 
elliptical,  at  the  apex  very  obtuse  or  abruptly  blunt-pointed,  and  at  the  base  rounded  ; 
margin  is  irregularly  and  closely  serrulate  or  denticulate,  and  often  obscurely  crenate, 
hairy  below  and  above  on  the  veins ; petioles  short,  downy. 

Description. — It  is  met  with  in  quills  or  curved  pieces  varying  in  size  from  3-10 
Cm.  (14  to  4 inches)  in  length  and  about  2 Mm.  (A-  inch)  thick,  externally  smooth  or 
nearly  so,  brownish-gray  and  sometimes  with  whitish  patches.  The  young  bark  has 
numerous  rather  broad,  pale-colored  warts.  After  removal  of  the  outer  layer  the  bark 
is  brown  or  reddish-brown  in  color.  The  inner  surface  is  smooth  or  finely  striate,  yellow- 
ish or  light  brownish  in  color,  and  becomes  dark-brown  by  age.  It  breaks  with  a 
smooth  fracture,  which  in  thicker  pieces  is  somewhat  fibrous  in  the  inner  layer. 
The  bark  has  no  odor,  a bitter  taste,  and  is  colored  red  by  solution  of  potassium 
hydroxide. 

Constituents.— Prof.  Prescott  (1879)  determined  in  it  the  presence  of  red  resin 
colored  brown  by  potassa  ; a resinous  body  not  colored  by  potassa,  but  red-brown  by 
sulphuric  acid;  a white  sublimable  crystalline  compound;  a brown  resin  colored  purple- 
red  by  potassa ; tannin,  oxalic  acid,  malic  acid,  and  other  common  vegetable  principles. 
According  to  Eccles  (1888),  cascara  sagrada  possibly  contains  an  alkaloid.  Limousin 
(1885)  claims  that  the  resinous  principles  of  Prescott  were  all  derived  from  chrysophanic 
acid,  and  Schwabe  (1888)  obtained  emodin,  but  could  isolate  no  frangulin  from  cascara 
sagrada  about  one  year  old. 

Allied  Drugs. — Rhamnus  (Frangula,GW/)  californica,  Esclischoltz , is  somewhat  smaller  than 
the  preceding,  has  ovate-oblong  or  elliptical  denticulate  or  nearly  entire  leaves,  produces 
numerous,  mostly  abortive  flowers,  and  has  a blackish-purple  two-  or  three-seeded  fruit.  It 
grows  throughout  California,  and  a variety  with  white  tomentose  leaves  extends  through  Arizona 
to  New  Mexico. 

Rhamnus  (Frangula,  Gray)  caroliniana,  Walter  ( Southern  buckthorn ),  is  a shrub  or  small 
tree  growing  in  moist  localities  in  the  southern  part  of  the  United  States,  northward  to  Southern 
New  York,  and  westward  to  Texas  and  the  Rocky  Mountains,  It  has  oblong  serrulate  leaves, 
short-peduncled  flowers,  and  purplish  globose  three-seeded  fruits.  The  bark  has  been  recently 
recommended  as  a substitute  for  the  European  frangula-bark. 

Action  and  Uses. — Attention  was  first  drawn  to  the  virtues  of  this  plant  in 
1878  by  Bunday  of  California,  and  by  1883  its  preparations  became  well  known  in 
America  and  Europe  ( Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour .,  Oct.  1887,  p.  402).  Tschilzow,  who 
tested  it  in  experiments  upon  animals,  found  that  it  did  not  act  as  a purgative  when 
administered  subcutaneously  or  by  the  veins,  but  that,  introduced  into  the  stomach,  it 
increased  the  secretions  of  that  organ,  the  pancreas,  and  liver  ( Centralbl.  f.  d.  ges.  Thar.. 
iii.  362).  That  it  is  a gastro-intestinal  stimulant,  as  all  purgatives  are,  cannot  be 
questioned,  but  there  is  no  proof  of  its  specific  action  upon  either  of  the  organs 
mentioned. 

It  acts  usually  with  certainty  and  without  causing  irritation  or  any  unpleasant  symp- 
toms ; it  produces  semi-solid  stools.  In  comparatively  rare  cases  it  has  acted  harshly. 
Thus  Thompson  ( British  Med.  Jour.,  Mar.  22,  1884)  relates  instances  in  which  it  occa- 
sioned severe  colic,  cramps,  vomiting,  and  excessive  purging.  (Compare  Porteous, 
Edmb.  Med.  Jour.,  xxxi.  923;  Cotter,  Ther.  Gaz.,  xii.  285.)  Others  have  accused  it  of 
producing  a persistent  soreness  of  the  bowels,  and  at  the  same  time  of  being  inefficient 
except  when  associated  with  other  purgatives.  It  sometimes  irritates  haemorrhoids,  but 
generally  it  has  no  such  effect.  It  does  not  operate  hurriedly  or  urgently,  as  those  pur- 
gatives do  that  produce  liquid  stools.  R.  Purshiana  affords  an  extract  that  is  more  bitter 
and  more  purgative  than  that  of  R.  Catharticus. 


1376 


RHEUM. 


The  special  virtue  of  cascara  consists  in  its  overcoming  constipation  without  purging, 
and  therefore  without  weakening.  The  “ sluggish  condition  of  the  liver  ” it  is  said  to 
relieve  is  merely  that  caused  by  the  pressure  of  an  overloaded  colon.  In  simple  consti- 
pation, or  torpor  of  the  colon  without  associated  disease,  its  value  is  greatest.  It  is  well 
suited  for  lying-in  women.  A special  power  of  reinforcing  or  developing  the  antiperiodic 
virtues  of  quinine,  which  has  been  ascribed  to  it,  depends  chiefly  upon  its  evacuant  vir- 
tues ; for  it  is  well  known  that  in  chronic  malarial  disorders  quinine  is  apt  to  fail  until 
the  bowels  have  been  purged  and  the  removal  of  what  was,  formerly  called  “ sordes  ” 
secured. 

The  proper  method  of  obtaining  the  best  effects  of  cascara  is  to  administer  it  in  rela- 
tively small  but  repeated  doses,  which  in  cases  of  habitual  constipation  should  be 
gradually  diminished,  until  a natural  action  of  the  bowels  is  established.  The  average 
dose  of  the  powdered  bark  is  Gm.  0.25  (5  grains),  and  of  the  solid  extract  about  Gm. 
0.10  (2  grains).  This  medicine  is  often  associated  with  the  extract  of  Berberis  aquifo- 
lium,  which  is  a tonic.  A cordial  in  which  these  ingredients  are  conjoined  with  aromatics 
is  the  most  usual  form  of  administering  cascara  : R.  Rhamni  purshianae,  Gm.  100  ; Ber- 
berid.  aquifolii,  Gm.  37  ; Alcohol  dilut.,  Gm.  233;  Sacchar.  alb.,  Gm.  288;  Aquae,  Gm. 
1000.  Dose , Cc.  1-4  (tffxv-f^j),  two  or  three  times  a day.  The  dose  of  the  fluid  extract  is 
Cc.  .60-1.30.  Cascara  is  not  adapted  for  the  rapid  evacuation  of  the  bowels,  but  rather 
for  regulating  their  action.  It  should  be  given  when  the  stomach  is  empty,  and  as  undi- 
luted as  possible. 

Rhamnus  alaternus  leaves  in  decoction  are  said  to  repress  the  secretion  of  milk  ( Phar - 
maceut.  Jour.,  Dec.  1885). 


RHEUM,  II.  S. — Rhubarb. 

Rhei  radix , Br. ; Radix  rhei , P.  G. — Rhubarb-root , E. ; Rhubarbe , Fr. ; Rhabarber , G. ; 
Ruibarbo , Sp. 

The  root  of  Rheum  officinale,  Baillon.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 213,  214,  215. 

Nat.  Ord. — Polygonaceae. 

Origin. — That  rhubarb-root  is  obtained  from  the  western  and  north-western  provinces 
of  China  and  from  other  parts  of  the  highlands  of  Central  Asia  has  been  known  for  a 
long  time.  The  efforts  made  by  the  Russian  government  since  the  first  half  of  the 
eighteenth  century  to  obtain  the  rhubarb-plant  have  been  unsuccessful ; at  least  the 
plants  Rheum  palmatum  and  Rh.  undulatum,  Linne , raised  in  Europe  from  the  seeds  thus 
procured,  had  roots  which  were  not  identical  with  true  rhubarb.  More  recently,  however, 
several  species  have  become  known  in  Europe  which  appear  to  be  the  source  of  most,  if 
not  all,  rhubarb. 

Rheum  officinale,  Baillon.  In  1867,  Dabry,  French  consul  at  Shanghai,  procured 
from  South-eastern  Thibet  a number  of  fresh  root-stocks,  which  were  sent  to  Paris,  where 
they  arrived  in  a completely  decayed  condition,  a few  buds  excepted.  From  these  plants 
were  successfully  raised,  of  which  one  flowered  in  1872  and  was  described  by  Baillon 
under  the  above  name.  It  has  a stout  rhizome  with  few  roots,  and  produces  a tall  stem, 
from  near  the  thick  base  of  which  numerous  orbicular-ovate,  five-  or  seven-lobed  leaves 
grow,  attaining  sometimes  a length  of  blade  equal  to  1.2  M.  (4  feet).  The  inflorescence  is 
large,  much  branched,  racemose,  with  numerous  clustered  and  drooping,  small  greenish- 
white  flowers,  and  with  pendulous,  triangular,  yellow  fruits,  nearly  12  Mm.  (I  inch)  long, 
and  with  a bright  crimson  wing  on  each  angle. 

Rheum  palmatum,  Linne.  From  the  observations  made  by  Lieutenant-Colonel  Prze- 
walsky  during  his  travels  (1872-73)  in  Central  Asia,  it  appears  that  a variety  of  this 
species,  which  he  collected  near  Lake  Kokonor,  in  North-western  China,  was  really  the 
source  of  the  formerly  highly  esteemed  Russian  rhubarb.  Maximowicz  (1874)  described 
this  variety  as  Tanguticum , and  contended  that  its  cultivation  in  Europe  was  unsuccessful 
on  account  of  the  principal  roots  decaying.  Dragendorff  (1877),  however,  compared  the 
roots  to  English  rhubarb  in  appearance.  The  plant  grows  to  the  height  of  2.4  to  3 M.  (8 
or  10  feet),  has  large  orbicular-ovate,  deeply  five-lobed  and  cut  radical  leaves,  numerous 
small  pale  pinkish  flowers,  and  drooping,  triangular  fruits,  with  a dull  red  wing  on  each 
angle.  Przewalsky  (1881)  observed  another  very  tall  rhubarb,  the  root  of  which  weighed 
26  pounds. 

Rheum  hybridum,  Murray,  is  chiefly  characterized  by  the  nearly  flat  and  wrinkled 
leaves,  which  are  heart-shaped  at  the  base,  pointed  above,  and  undulately  lobed  on  the 


RHEUM. 


1377 


margin.  A variety  of  this  species,  named  Colinianum,  was  received  by  Prof.  Baillon 
(1878)  from  M.  Colin  of  Verdun,  who  had  procured  it  from  Central  Asia ; its  root  has 
the  characters  of  rhubarb. 

Production. — From  the  meagre  accounts  concerning  the  collection  of  the  root  and 
its  preparation  for  the  market,  it  appears  that  the  root  is  dug  up  in  autumn,  deprived  of 
its  corky  layer,  cut  into  sections  to  facilitate  the  drying,  and  afterward  exposed  to  the  air, 
frequently  strung  on  a cord,  and,  if  necessary,  dried  by  the  aid  of  artificial  heat.  In  the 
Chinese  ports  it  is  assorted  according  to  its  shape. 

Rhubarb  enters  commerce  now  chiefly  from  Shanghai  and  other  ports  of  Northern 
China,  and  is  hence  known  as  Chinese  rhubarb  ; much  of  it  was  and  is  still  first  shipped 
to  India  before  it  is  sent  to  Europe  ; the  so-called  East  India  rhubarb  is  therefore  not  dis- 
tinct from  the  Chinese.  Formerly  an  excellent  quality  of  rhubarb  was  received  through 
Siberia  under  treaty  stipulations  between  the  governments  of  Russia  and  China.  This 
was  almost  exclusively  received  at  Kiachta,  and  there  subjected  to  a very  stringent  ex- 
amination, carefully  trimmed  and  dried,  and  afterward  packed  in  waterproof  chests  and 
sent  overland  to  Moscow  and  St.  Petersburg.  This  variety  was  known  as  Russian  or  crown 
rhubarb.  However,  since  about  the  year  1850  various  causes  have  operated  against  the 
rhubarb  trade  through  Siberia;  from  1860  very  little  rhubarb  was  received  at  Kiachta, 
and  the  office  for  the  inspection  of  this  drug  was  finally  abolished  in  1863. 

Description. — Rhubarb,  as  met  with  in  commerce,  consists  of  segments  of  the  rhi- 
zome, which  are  usually  assorted  into  round  and  flat,  the  one  kind  being  either  subcylin- 
drical  or  conical,  while  the  other  is  irregularly  trapezoidal  in  outline  and  flattish  or  con- 
vex on  one  side.  They  are  often  perforated  with  a hole,  in  which  remnants  of  the  cord 
are  found  by  which  the  root  was  suspended  in  drying.  The  outer  surface  is  always 
trimmed,  but  patches  of  the  corky  layer,  or  at  least  of  the  inner  portion  thereof,  are  usu- 
ally present  to  a small  extent,  and  are  of  a dark  blackish-brown  color.  Otherwise,  the 
outer  surface  is  nearly  smooth  or  somewhat  wrinkled,  and  after  the  removal  of  the  adlier- 
ing  yellowish  dust  shows  numerous  brown-yellow  or  red-brown  short  strise  imbedded  in  a 
white  tissue,  in  which  an  arrangement  into  elongated  meshes  is  observable.  The  trans- 
verse surface  has  a marbled  appearance,  and  consists  of  white  parenchyma  traversed  by 
innumerable  fine  reddish  medullary  rays;  these,  in  the  centre  of  the  pieces,  are  very 
irregular,  curved,  and  interrupted,  and  show  a more  regular  radiating  arrangement  only 
toward  the  circumference  near  the  dark-colored  cambium-line  and  in  the  inner  bark,  which 
is  generally  present  in  Chinese  rhubarb.  In  Russian  rhubarb  the  cambial  zone  was 


Fig.  240. 


Fig.  241. 


Russian  Rhubarb : transverse  section. 


Chinese  Rhubarb  : transverse  section. 


entirely  trimmed  off,  leaving  only  a narrow  zone  of  regularly  radiating  nearly  parallel 
medullary  rays.  Near  this  zone  a dense  circle  of  stellate  spots  was  seen,  consisting  of 
small  groups  of  medullary  rays,  each  group  radiating  usually  in  curved  lines  from  a 
common  centre.  These  stellate  spots  are  likewise  observed  in  Chinese  rhubarb,  though 
not  in  all  pieces,  and  are  in  most  cases  less  numerous  ; they  indicate  the  origin  of  the 
radical  leaves,  and  must  therefore  be  necessarily  most  numerous  in  old  rhizomes.  Rhu- 
barb is  firm,  compact,  and  breaks  with  an  uneven  granular,  not  at  all  fibrous,  fracture  ; 
it  has  a peculiar  aromatic  odor,  a bitter  and  somewhat  astringent  taste,  and  when  masti- 
cated  is  gritty  between  the  teeth  and  imparts  a yellow  color  to  the  saliva.  The  grittiness 
ot  rhubarb  is  due  to  the  parenchyma  containing  aggregated  tufts  of  microscopic  crystals 
ot  calcium  oxalate,  the  composition  of  which  was  already  ascertained  by  Scheele  (1784). 
Pieces  which  are  spongy,  decayed,  worm-eaten,  or  mouldy  should  be  rejected.  Unsightly 
pieces  are  sometimes  artificially  improved  in  appearance  by  means  of  powdered  turmeric, 
in  which  case  the  surface  turns  red-brown  with  a solution  of  boric  acid. 

87 


1378 


RHEUM. 


Fig.  242. 


Fig.  243. 


Rhubarb:  section  through  and  near  cambium, 
magnified  40  diameters. 


Calcium  Oxalate  Crys- 
tals in  Rhubarb. 


Constituents. — Rhubarb  has  been  frequently  subjected  to  analysis,  and  various 

more  or  less  active  substances  were  separated  from 
it,  and  by  the  different  investigators  named  rhein , 
rhabarbarin,  rheumin , and  rhabarbaric  acid.  In 
1835,  Peretti  isolated  from  it  a 
crystalline,  yellow,  sublimable 
principle  which  dissolves  in 
H potassa  with  a red  color.  This 
was  subsequently  proven  by 
Schlossberger  and  Popping 
(1844)  to  be  identical  with 
chrysophanic  acid , C15H10O4 

(Liebermann,  1875).  It  was 
first  obtained  in  a resinous  con- 
dition by  Schrader  (1819)  from 
a common  lichen,  Parmelia  parie- 
tina,  Linne  ; was  obtained  pure 
by  Rochleder  and  Ileldt  (1843), 
and  afterward  found  in  the  roots  of  Rumex  and  of  cultivated  rhubarb.  The  pre- 
cipitate occurring  in  tincture  of  rhubarb  yields  chrysophanic  acid  on  treating  it  with 
benzene.  Or  rhubarb  may  be  exhausted  with  cold  water,  and  the  residue,  after  drying, 
with  benzene ; on  concentrating  the  benzene  solution  chrysophanic  acid  crystallizes  on 
cooling  (Schlossberger).  It  forms  bright-yellow  needles  or  plates,  is  inodorous  and 
nearly  tasteless,  fuses  at  162°  C.  (323.6°  F.),  and  sublimes  on  carefully  regulating  the 
heat.  It  is  almost  insoluble  in  cold  water,  but  imparts  a bright-yellow  color  to  boiling 
water,  and  requires  224  parts  of  boiling  86  per  cent,  alcohol  for  solution.  It  crystallizes 
from  its  concentrated  solution  in  hot  alcohol,  amylic  alcohol,  glacial  acetic  acid,  and  ether, 
and  is  freely  soluble  in  benzene,  chloroform,  fixed  and  volatile  oils,  and  the  hydrocarbons 
of  coal-tar.  Strong  sulphuric  acid  dissolves  it  with  a bright-red  color,  and  separates  it 
again  in  yellow  floccules  on  adding  the  solution  to  water.  Alkalies  dissolve  it  with  a 
deep-red  color ; the  solutions  produce  with  alum  a rose-colored  lake,  and  with  lead  salts 
precipitates  which  may  vary  in  color  from  yellowish  to  pinkish  or  bright-red.  (See  also 
Chrysarobinum,  p.  473). 

After  washing  the  alcoholic  extract  of  rhubarb  with  water,  dissolving  the  residue  in  a 
small  quantity  of  alcohol,  and  mixing  the  solution  with  ether,  a precipitate  is  obtained 
consisting  of  phseoretin,  aporetin , and  resinous  matter.  The  liquid  yields  chrysophanic 
acid  on  concentration,  while  the  mother-liquor  contains  erythroretin , C38H36014,  which  is  a 
yellow  tasteless  powder  readily  soluble  in  alcohol,  less  freely  soluble  in  ether  and  glacial 
acetic  acid,  and  dissolves  in  alkalies  with  a purple  color.  By  treating  crude  chrysophanic 
acid  with  cold  benzene,  emodin , C15H10O5,  is  left  behind  ; this  crystallizes  from  hot  benzene 
in  orange-colored  prisms  which  dissolve  in  alkalies  with  a deep-red  color  ; it  was  discovered 
by  Warren  de  la  Rue  and  Muller  (1857).  The  precipitate  by  ether  obtained  as  above 
contains  aporetin,  and  yields  to  cold  alcohol  phseoretin , C32H32014,  which  is  yellowish- 
brown  and  soluble  in  alkalies  with  a dark  red-brown  color.  Aporetin  is  a blackish 
resinous  mass,  sparingly  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  benzene,  and  chloroform,  and  yields 
with  alkalies  a brown  solution,  and  by  nitric  acid  is  oxidized  to  oxalic  and  chrysamic 
acids. 

Kubly  (1867)  isolated  from  rhubarb,  besides  phaeoretin,  chrysophan , C27H30O,4  (Lieber- 
mann), which  is  orange-colored,  bitter,  insoluble  in  ether,  soluble  in  alcohol,  and  more 
freely  so  in  water,  and  by  acids  is  split  into  sugar  and  chrysophanic  acid  ; a colorless, 
crystallizable,  neutral,  and  tasteless  body,  having  the  composition  C10H12O4 ; and  rheo- 
tannic  acid. , C52H52028,  which  is  insoluble  in  ether,  soluble  in  water  and  alcohol,  pre- 
cipitates gelatin  and  albumen,  yields  with  ferric  salts  a black-green  precipitate,  and 
when  boiled  with  dilute  acids  is  resolved  into  sugar  and  rheumic  acid , C40H32O18.  This 
acid  closely  resembles  rheotannic  acid,  but  is  sparingly  soluble  in  cold  water  and  yields 
dark-blue  precipitates  with  ferric  salts.  Rhubarb  contains  also  sugar,  fat,  pectinaceous 
matter,  and  starch.  The  ash  left  on  incineration  varies  in  amount ; good  rhubarb  yields 
about  12  or  14  per  cent.,  but  sometimes  as  high  as  43  per  cent,  has  been  obtained  ( Phar - 
macographia) . 

Other  Rhubarbs. — Rheum  rhaponticum,  Limit,  is  indigenous  to  Asia  Minor,  Southern  Siberia, 
and  South-eastern  Russia.  It  has  a large  conical  fleshy  root  and  cordate-ovate  rather  obtuse 
leaves  on  long  fleshy,  pleasantly  acidulous  petioles,  the  upper  part  of  which  has  a shallow 


RHEUM. 


1379 


channel.  This  species  is  extensively  cultivated  as  pie-plant  for  the  sake  of  the  leaf- 
stalks, and  the  root  is  occasionally  employed  in  domestic  prac- 
tice. The  same  species  is  also  cultivated  in  Moravia,  Hun-  Fig.  244. 

gary,  and  near  Banbury,  England,  and  yields  the  Austrian  or 
Moravian  and  the  English  rhubarb.  In  some  parts  of  Russia, 

Germany,  and  France,  Rheum  palmatum,  Linne , is  likewise  culti- 
vated ; and  experiments  have  also  been  made  with  Rh.  undulatum, 

Linn £.  Rh.  compactum,  Limit,  and  Rh.  Emodi,  Wallich , s.  Rh. 
australe,  Don.  The  various  kinds  of  rhubarb  grown  in  Europe 
are  often  very  handsome  in  appearance,  though  usually  of  a lighter 
color  than  good  Chinese  rhubarb,  and  generally  of  smaller  dimen- 
sions. The  medullary  rays  usually  radiate  pretty  regularly  from 
the  centre,  but  in  interrupted  lines  ; the  cambium-zone  is  more  dis- 
tinct, the  stellate  spots  are  entirely  wanting  or  present  only  in 
small  numbers,  and  the  outer  surface  shows,  after  trimming,  the 
short  striae  of  the  brownish-red  medullary  rays,  but  white  meshes 
are  rarely  seen. 

Tests.— It  has  been  stated  above  that  unsightly  pieces 
of  rhubarb  are  occasionally  rendered  more  attractive  in  ap- 
pearance by  turmeric ; the  same  is  the  case  with  powdered 

rhubarb.  For  the  detection  of  this  sophistication  W.  L.  European  “ujS,rnb:  transverse 
Howie  (1873)  recommended  the  following  test : About  5 

grains  of  rhubarb  are  placed  upon  white  blotting-paper ; a few  drops  of  chloroform  are 
percolated  through  the  powder,  when  the  paper  surrounding  the  powder  will  become 
very  slightly  stained  from  good  Chinese  rhubarb,  while  European  or  dark-colored  Chinese 
rhubarb  will  produce  a deep-yellow  stain  similar  to  turmeric.  A pinch  of  powdered  borax 
is  now  placed  on  the  stain,  and  a single  drop  of  hydrochloric  acid  placed  upon  it ; if  the 
stain  was  produced  by  rhubarb  its  color  will  not  be  affected,  but  if  the  rhubarb  contained 
turmeric  the  color  will  change  to  a distinct  red  in  a few  seconds. 

Allied  Drugs. — Perezia  adnata,  Gray  (Trixis  Pipitzahoac,  Schaffner , Dumerilia  Alami,  De 
Candolle ),  nat.  ord.  Composite,  Mutisiaceae.  This  is  a plant  of  Central  Mexico,  the  rhizome  of 
which  is  used  as  a laxative.  It  is  described  by  Th.  Greenish  (1884)  as  8-10  Cm.  (3  to  4 inches) 
long,  2 Mm.  (T^  inch)  thick,  longitudinally  wrinkled,  brown,  bitter,  and  rather  persistently  pun- 
gent ; it  has  a thick  central  pith,  surrounded  by  about  eight  short  fibro-vascular  bundles,  on  the 
outside  of  which,  in  the  thickish  bark,  are  contained  a number  of  cells  forming  a circle  and  con- 
taining a yellow  crystalline  substance  5 stone-cells  of  a somewhat  stellate  appearance  are  scat- 
tered in  the  parenchyma.  The  yellow  principle,  pipitzahoic  acid , C15II10O3,  was  examined  by 
C.  M.  Weld  (1855)  ; it  crystallizes  in  golden-colored  glossy  scales  or  plates-,  hence  it  has  been 
called  vegetable  gold ; it  is  nearly  insoluble  in  cold  water,  dissolves  readily  in  alcohol  and  ether, 
melts  near  100°  C.,  sublimes  when  heated  with  care,  and  acquires  an  intense  purple  color  with 
alkalies  and  alkaline  earths.  The  same  compound  was  obtained  by  Charles  Mohr  (1884)  from 
the  root  of  Perezia  Wrightii  and  P.  nana,  Gray , of  South-western  Texas — from  the  latter  in 
smaller  quantity  ; it  separates  from  the  decoction  in  needles.  The  acid  acts  as  a drastic  purga- 
tive in  doses  of  0.25-0.50  Gm.  (4  to  8 grains),  and  imparts  a greenish  color  to  urine. 

Ruin  acanthus  communis,  Nees  (nat.  ord.  Acanthacese).  This  shrub  is  indigenous  to  India  and 
China.  The  woody  root  and  leaves  have  been  used  in  ringworm  and  other  cutaneous  diseases. 
The  root  contains  in  intercellular  spaces  of  the  bark  a quinone-like  body,  which  Liborius  (1881) 
called  rhinacanthin , C14II1804,  which  forms  with  alkalies  intensely  red  compounds,  and  these  are 
decomposed  by  benzin,  dissolving  the  rhinacanthin  with  a yellow  color. 

Action  and  Uses. — Rhubarb  acts  as  a purgative  on  horses  and  dogs  as  well  as  on 
man,  and  in  all  cases  its  coloring  and  purgative  principles  are  absorbed  into  the  blood, 
since  it  tinges  the  urine  and  milk  and  renders  the  latter  purgative.  It  also  sometimes 
stains  the  perspiration  yellow.  The  color  which  it  gives  the  faeces  probably  led  to  its 
being  regarded  as  a cholagogue,  but  the  experiments  of  Rutherford  led  him  to  conclude 
that  it  is  really  so  independently  of  its  purgative  action.  Provost  and  Binet  class  it  with 
medicines  whose  action  on  the  biliary  secretion  is  inconstant,  although  they  commonly 
slightly  increase  it  ( Therap.  Gaz.  xii.  610).  Its  purgative  and  astringent  properties  have 
been  ascribed  to  cathartinic  (?)  and  rheo-tannic  (?)  acids,  respectively.  After  large  doses 
a moderate  purgative  action  is  followed  by  quiescence  of  the  bowels  ; but  a very  small 
quantity  taken  daily  in  mass  and  allowed  to  dissolve  in  the  mouth  will  maintain  them  in 
a free  condition  for  some  time,  and  that  without  at  all  impairing  the  digestion.  The  pur- 
gative operation  of  rhubarb  has  been  manifested  when  it  was  applied  to  ulcers  or  moist- 
ened and  rubbed  upon  the  skin. 

The  gentle  action  of  rhubarb  renders  it  one  of  the  best  remedies  for  hsemorrhouh  con- 
nected with  constipation.  Its  tonic  or  astringent  influence,  superadded  to  its  laxative 


1380 


RHCEADOS  PETAL  A. —RHUS  GLABRA. 


operation,  constitutes  it  one  of  the  best  remedies  for  diarrhoea  due  to  cold  or  to  the  pres- 
ence of  irritating  ingesta  in  the  bowels ; and  for  this  purpose  roasted  rhubarb  is  thought 
to  be  peculiarly  efficient.  It  is  prepared  by  roasting  fragments  of  rhubarb  like  coffee. 
The  diarrhoea  to  which  children  are  liable  in  summer  is  often  cured  by  this  medicine, 
especially  when  associated  with  magnesia.  Rhubarb  laxatives  in  small  doses  have  been 
recommended  for  thread-worms.  At  one  time  rhubarb  was  believed  to  be  a valuable 
remedy  for  dysentery , but  in  this  disease,  which  presents  so  many  types  and  varieties,  it 
is  difficult  to  determine  in  what  particular  form  of  it  the  medicine  is  most  efficient.  We  j 
believe  that  it  is  so  in  the  first  stages  of  simple  dysentery  when  associated  with  mild 
salines,  in  the  decline  of  the  bilious  form  with  a tendency  to  protracted  diarrhoea,  and  as 
an  occasional  purgative  in  chronic  dysentery  prolonged  by  scybala  in  the  bowels. 

Externally,  powdered  rhubarb  has  been  recommended  as  a stimulant  and  astringent  | 
application  to  old,  indolent,  and  irritable  ulcers.  Opium,  calomel,  and  other  substances 
may  be  mixed  with  it. 

The  dose  of  rhubarb  as  a purgative  is  about  Gm.  1.30  (gr.  xx)  ; as  a gentle  aperient 
and  tonic,  Gm.  0.30  (gr.  v).  Associated  with  calomel,  its  action  is  prompt  and  efficient. 
With  magnesia  it  is  very  appropriate  when  the  secretions  of  the  stomach  and  bowels  are 
unduly  acid.  The  simple  rhubarb  pill,  which  contains  soap,  is  very  eligible  as  a mild 
laxative  for  habitual  or  occasional  use.  The  numerous  official  preparations  of  this  drug 
are  commented  upon  in  their  proper  places. 

Rhinacanthus  communis  has  been  employed  in  Japan  and  also  in  Europe,  for  chronic 
diseases  of  the  skin , as  a topical  remedy  (Strumpf,  Handbuch , ii.  361  ; Philada.  Med. 
Times , xiv.  393). 

RHCEADOS  PETALA,  Br, — Red-poppy  Petals. 

Flores  rhoeados. — Corn  poppy,  Corn  rose , E. ; Coquelicot , F.  Cod;  Pavot  rouge , Fr. ; 
Klatschrose,  Klapperrose,  G. ; Amapola , Sp. 

The  fresh  petals  of  Papaver  Rhoeas,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 19.  ! 

Nat.  Ord. — Papaveraceae. 

Origin. — The  red  poppy  is  an  herbaceous  annual  growing  in  fields  among  cereals 
throughout  the  greater  part  of  Europe,  in  Northern  Africa,  and  in  Asia  eastward  to. 
India.  It  is  about  60  Cm.  (2  feet)  high,  is  covered  with  spreading  hairs,  has  deeply 
pinnatifid  leaves  with  the  segments  lanceolate  and  cut-toothed;  it  has  showy  red  flowers, 
and  produces  short,  smooth,  obovate  capsules  which  are  truncate  above  and  contain 
numerous  minute  blackish  seeds. 

Description. — The  petals  are  roundish  in  outline,  5 Cm.  (2  inches)  and  more  in 
width,  one  pair  always  broader  than  the  other  pair,  deep  scarlet-red,  after  drying  of  a dull 
purple,  very  thin,  with  a short  claw  and  a black  spot  near  the  base.  Their  odor  in  the,; 
fresh  state  is  heavy  and  somewhat  narcotic,  and  is  dissipated  in  drying;  their  taste  is 
mucilaginous  and  slightly  bitter. 

Papaver  dubium,  Linne , which  is  sometimes  met  with  spontaneously  in  the  United  '< 
States,  is  appressed-hairy  and  has  a club-shaped  capsule  and  roundish-oblong,  red  petals, 
which  agree  in  sensible  properties  with  the  preceding,  but  are  generally  smaller. 

Constituents. — Red-poppy  petals  have  been  frequently  examined,  and  it  has  been 
asserted  by  some  that  they  contain  small  quantities  of  morphine,  paramorphine,  and  nar- 
cotine, which  alkaloids,  however,  could  not  be  detected  by  other  investigators.  Accord- 
ing to  Ilesse  (1865),  they  contain  rhoeadine  (see  p.  1172).  Leo  Meier  (1846)  found  in 
the  petals  gum,  starch,  albumen,  fat,  and  wax,  and  two  deliquescent  coloring  principles — 
rhoeadic  acid , which  is  dai;k-red,  soluble  in  alcohol  and  water,  but  insoluble  in  ether,  and  j 
yields  brown  compounds  with  alkalies;  and  papaveric  acid,  which  is  bright-red,  soluble  in  j 
dilute  alcohol  and  water,  and  forms  violet  compounds  with  the  alkalies.  Hesse  found 
the  milk-juice  of  the  plant  to  become  deep-red  with  ferric  chloride  ; it  probably  contains 
meconic  acid. 

Uses. — The  dried  petals  of  the  red  or  corn  poppy  are  used  in  the  preparation  of 
syrup  of  red  poppy. 

RHUS  GLABRA,  U.  S.— Sumach. 

Pennsylvania,  or  upland  sumach , E. ; Sumac , Fr. ; Sumach , G. ; Zumaque , Sp. 

The  fruit  of  Rhus  glabra,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Terebinthaceae,  Anacardieae. 


RHUS  GLABRA. 


1381 


Origin. — The  smooth  sumach  is  a shrub  or  suffruticose  plant  growing  in  rocky  and 
barren  soil  in  North  America.  It  attains  a height  of  about  3.6  M.  (12  feet).  The  stem 
has  a large  pith  and  a thin  circular  layer  of  white  wood,  which  is  covered  with  a thin 
brown-gray  bark  having  small  scattered  warts  on  the  outer  surface,  the  inner  tangential 
layers  of  a green  and  the  inner  surface  of  a brown  color.  The  leaves  are  imparipinnate, 
with  from  twenty-one  to  thirty-one  lance-oblong,  pointed,  and  serrate,  on  the  under  side 
whitish,  leaflets.  The  small  greenish  flowers  grow  in  dense  ovoid  terminal  panicles,  and 
appear  in  June ; the  fruit  ripens  in  September. 

Description. — The  fruit  is  drupaceous,  subglobular,  less  than  3 Mm.  inch)  in 
diameter ; is  densely  covered  with  bright  purplish-red  hairs,  and  encloses  a roundish 
oblong  smooth  putamen.  It  is  inodorous  and  has  a strong  and  pleasant  acidulous  taste. 
The  leaves  and  bark,  which  have  also  been  employed  medicinally,  have  an  astringent  and 
bitter  taste. 

Constituents. — TrommsdorfF  (1834)  found  in  the  fruit  of  the  European  sumach 
tannin,  coloring  matter,  potassium  malate,  and  much  calcium  malate.  Similar  results 
were  obtained  by  W.  B.  Rogers  (1835)  with  the  fruit  of  Rhus  glabra  and  copallina. 
The  seeds  contain  fixed  oil.  The  astringent  taste  of  European  sumach-leaves  was  ascer- 
tained by  Chevreul  to  be  due  to  tannic  and  gallic  acids,  and  Stenhouse  (1862)  corrob- 
orated this  result  by  converting  the  tannin  into  gallic  acid.  He  attributes  the  varia- 
tion in  the  amount  of  tannin  to  the  fact  that  the  European  sumach-leaves  are  collected 
also  from  Rhus  Cotinus,  Linne.  Bowman  (1869)  estimated  the  tannin  in  Rhus  glabra 
by  means  of  gelatin,  and  found  in  the  bark  8.75  and  14.55  per  cent.,  and  in  the  fruit 
1.9  per  cent. 

Allied  Species. — Rhus  copallina,  Lima?,  Dwarf  sumach.  It  is  from  .9-2.1  M.  (3  to  7 feet) 
high,  and  has  downy  branches  and  the  petioles  wing-margined  between  the  lanceolate  entire 
leaflets. 

Riius  typhina,  Linn6,  Staghorn  sumach.  It  is  6-9  M.  (20  to  30  feet)  high,  velvety-hairy,  and 
has  leaves  with  from  seventeen  to  thirty-one  oblong-lanceolate,  pointed,  and  sharply  serrate  or 
cut-toothed  leaflets. 

Riius  aromatica,  Alton , Sweet  sumach.  It  is  about  1.5  M.  (5  feet)  high,  has  petiolate  aromatic 
leaves,  with  three  sessile  rhombic-ovate  cut-toothed  leaves,  and  produces  yellowish  flowers  in 
ament-like  spikes.  The  root-bark  is  about  2 Mm.  inch)  thick,  covered  with  a fissured  and 
warty  brown  cork  (underneath  which  the  bark  is  orange-red),  and  is  whitish  or  pale-brownish 
in  color.  It  is  brittle,  breaks  with  a short  granular  fracture,  yields  an  ochre-colored  powder, 
and  has  a slight  pleasant  odor  and  an  astringent,  aromatic,  and  bitterish  taste.  The  bark  con- 
tains scattered  oil-cells,  and  has  a somewhat  checkered  appearance  from  the  tangential  arrange- 
ment of  the  bast-layer  and  the  radiating  delicate  medullary  rays.  H.  W.  Harper  (1881)  found 
it  to  contain  volatile  oil,  several  resins,  fat,  tannin,  gum,  etc,,  and  to  yield  13.8  per  cent,  of  ash. 
A tincture  has  been  used  made  with  alcohol,  and  representing  in  the  pint  4 troyounces  of  the 
bark.  The  fluid  extract  is  prepared  with  alcohol  in  the  same  manner  as  fluid  extract  of  ginger. 

Rhus  Coriaria,  Linnt,  European  sumach.  It  grows  near  the  Mediterranean,  and  has  elliptic, 
coarsely  serrate,  woolly  leaflets.  From  fifteen  to  twenty  million  pounds  of  this  sumach  are 
annually  imported.  The  red  hispid  fruit  is  medicinally  used. 

Ail  the  above  species  have  red,  hairy,  acidulous  fruits  and  astringent  leaves,  and,  with  the 
exception  of  the  last,  are  indigenous  to  North  America. 

Action  and  Uses. — Sumach-berries,  containing  both  an  acid  and  an  astringent 
principle,  may  be  used  in  infusion  Gm.  32  to  Gm.  500  (Jj  to  Oj)  as  a gargle  in 
catarrhal  and  other  mild  forms  of  pharyngitis , for  which  it  forms  a very  agreeable  and 
efficient  remedy.  Even  in  the  decline  of  graver  forms  of  this  affection  it  is  deserving  of 
attention.  The  same  is  true  of  its  use  in  aphthae  and  other  forms  of  sore  mouth,  includ- 
ing that  produced  by  mercury.  An  infusion  or  decoction  of  the  leaves  or  of  the  inner 
bark  of  the  root  is  simply  astringent,  but  may  be  applied  to  the  same  purposes,  as  well 
as  for  dressing  wounds  and  ulcers.  The  glandular  excrescences  on  the  leaves  are  power- 
fully astringent. 

Rhus  aromatica,  or  sweet  sumach,  is  reported  to  have  such  an  action  on  the  pelvic 
1 organs  as  to  be  useful  in  haematuria , eneuresis , and  leucorrhoea.  In  a case  of  so-called  hys- 
terical incontinence  of  urine  it  almost  immediately  caused  a suspension  of  the  infirmity 
when  given  as  a fluid  extract  in  doses  of  from  10  to  30  drops  several  times  a day  ( Cen - 
tralbl.  f.  Therapie , i.  207).  Willeford  extolled  its  virtues  in  eneuresis,  but  did  not  state 
| in  what  forms  of  the  affection  it  excels  {Med.  Record , xxviii.  96)  ; Unna  recommended  it 
in  the  nocturnal  eneuresis  of  children,  but  did  not  find  its  effects  were  usually  permanent 
( Therap . Gaz .,  xi.  360)  ; and  Burnevich  {ibid.,  xii.,  477)  used  a tincture  of  the  plant  in 
inany  cases  of  senile  and  infantile  incontinence  of  urine  with  good  effect,  prescribing  it 
in  doses  of  from  10-30  drops  a day.  (Compare  Eloy,  Therap.  Gaz.,  xiii.  485.) 


1382 


RHUS  TOXICODENDRON. 


RHUS  TOXICODENDRON,  JJ.  S. — Rhus  Toxicodendron. 

Folia  toxicodendri. — Poison  oak , E. ; Sumach  veneneux,  Fr. ; Gift  sumach,  Gr. ; Zumaque 
venenoso , Sp. 


The  leaves  of  Rhus  Toxicodendron,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Terebinthaceae. 

Origin. — -The  poison  oak  is  indigenous  to  Canada  and  the  greater  portion  of  the 
United  States  westward  to  the  Rocky  Mountains.  It  attains  a height  of  about  1 M.  (40 
inches),  and  has  an  erect  stem,  or,  if  growing  in  close  proximity  to  trees  or  walls,  it 
becomes  a climber,  supporting  itself  by  adventitious  roots,  and  ascends  to  the  height  of 
9-12  M.  (30  or  40  feet).  This  climbing  shrub,  Rhus  radicans,  Linne , is  now  regarded 
merely  as  a variety  of  the  erect  form,  but  is  popularly  distinguished  as  poison  ivy.  Roth 
forms,  when  wounded,  emit  a milky  juice  which  turns  black  on  exposure ; they  have  the 
small  pale  greenish  pentamerous  flowers  in  axillary  paniculate  racemes,  and  produce 
small  dry  drupaceous  fruits  of  a whitish  color.  The  juice  may  be  employed  as  an  indeli- 
ble ink,  but  is  soluble  in  ether.  The  leaves  are  employed,  and  should  be  collected  from 
May  to  July,  while  the  shrub  is  in  bloom.  The  plant  has  been  introduced  into  Europe, 
and  has  become  naturalized  there. 

Description. — The  leaves  are  on  petioles  10-12  Cm.  (4  or  5 inches)  long,  and  are 
trifoliate,  with  the  terminal  leaflet  prominently  stalked,  ovate  or  oval,  acuminate,  and 
with  a wedge-shaped  base.  The  lateral  leaflets  are  nearly  sessile,  10-13  Cm.  (4  or  5 
inches)  long,  pointed,  rounded  at  the  base,  and  obliquely  ovate  in  shape,  the  lower  half 
being  broadest.  The  leaflets  are  either  entire  or  variously  notched,  coarsely  toothed  or 
lobed,  smooth  above,  somewhat  downy  beneath,  or  sometimes  downy  on  both  sides,  and 
after  drying  thin  and  papery  ; they  are  inodorous,  and  have  a somewhat  astringent,  saline, 
and  acrid  taste.  The  leaves  are  said  to  have  been  confounded  with  those  of  Ptelea  trifo- 
liata,  Linne  (see  p.  1321),  which  are  thicker,  pale-green,  and  have  three  sessile  leaflets. 

Constituents. — Khittel  (1858)  found  in  the  leaves  of  poison  oak  tannin,  producing 
a green-black  precipitate  with  ferric  salts,  fixed  oil,  wax,  mucilage,  and  other  principles 
commonly  found  in  plants.  He  believed  the  poisonous  properties  to  be  due  to  a volatile 
alkaloid.  But  we  found  (1865)  the  exhalations  of  this  plant  to  have  an  acid  reaction, 
and  the  leaves  to  contain  notable  quantities  of  ammonia,  but  no  other  alkaloid  or  only 
minute  traces  of  such  a compound.  The  poisonous  toxicodendric  acid  is  volatile,  has  a 
strongly  acid  reaction,  neutralizes  bases  completely,  and  yields  with  an  excess  of  lead 
oxide  a soluble  salt  having  a strong  alkaline  reaction.  The  aqueous  solution  of  the  acid 
produces  with  lead  acetates  heavy  white  precipitates,  yields  with  silver  nitrate,  on  boiling, 
a black  precipitate  of  silver  oxide,  and  separates  metallic  gold  from  a warm  solution  of 
gold  chloride.  Its  neutral  salts  produce  with  mercurous  salts  a white  precipitate,  chang- 
ing to  black  when  heated.  Potassium  permanganate  is  readily  reduced  both  by  the  acid 
and  its  salts.  Toxicodendric  acid  resembles  both  formic  and  acetic  acid  in  some  of  its 
reactions,  and,  according  to  the  unpublished  researches  of  H.  P.  Pettigrew  (1883),  who 
verified  the  above  observations,  the  neutral  solutions  of  its  salts  yield  also  a red  color 
with  ferric  salts.  Applied  to  the  skin  either  in  solution  or  in  the  state  of  vapor,  the  acid 
produces  vesicular  eruption. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparations.— The  expressed  juice  of  the  fresh  leaves  pre- 
served by  alcohol  probably  possesses  all  the  virtues  of  the  drug. 

Tinctura  toxicodendri.  The  bruised  fresh  leaves  are  macerated  for  ten  days  with 
an  equal  weight  of  alcohol,  and  the  liquid  expressed  and  filtered. 


Allied  Plants. — Riius  diversiloba,  Torrey  et  Gray  (Rh.  lobata,  Hooker ),  is  a straggling  or 
climbing  shrub  of  the  Pacific  coast  of  North  America,  and  has  the  leaves  with  three  or  five  more 
or  less  deeply  lobed  or  pinnatifid  leaflets. 

Rhus  venenata,  De  Candolle  (Rh.  Vernix,  Linnd).  This  species  grows  in  swampy  localities 
in  Canada  and  the  United  States,  and  is  known  as  the  poison  sumach, poison  dogwood , and  poison 
elder.  It  is  a shrub  3.6  to  5.4  M.  (12  to  18  feet)  high,  and  has  very  glabrous  leaves,  with  about 
eleven  oval  or  obovate-oblong,  abruptly  pointed,  and  entire  leaflets.  The  fruit  is  yellowish. 

Rhus  pumila  Michaux , is  a procumbent  shrub  of  Western  South  Carolina,  and  has  pubescent  > 
pinnate  leaves,  with  about  eleven  oval  or  oblong,  coarsely-toothed,  and  somewhat  acuminate  J 
leaflets.  The  fruit  is  red  and  softly  hairy. 

Rhus  Metopium,  Linn£.  The  coral  sumach , bum-wood  or  mount ain-machineel , grows  in  South-  j 
ern  Florida  and  the  West  Indian  islands.  It  is  about  9 M.  (30  feet)  high,  and  has  leaves  with  ; 
five  long-stalked  ovate  entire  and  smooth  leaflets.  The  wood  contains  much  tannin  ; the  fruit  is 
about  1 Cm.  (§  inch)  long,  red  and  acrid.  # . 

All  the  species  named  are  poisonous,  and  their  properties  are  probably  due  to  the  same  principle. 


RHUS  TOXICODENDRON. 


1383 


Action  and  Uses. — Poison  oak  was  well  known  to  the  aborigines,  and  early 
described  by  travellers  in  North  America,  both  as  a poison  and  as  a medicine.  The  vola- 
tile acid  emanations  of  the  living  plant  produce  an  eczematous  eruption  upon  the  skin, 
and  it  is  alleged  that  a dog  exposed  to  them  died  with  a general  swelling  of  the  body. 
Herbivorous  animals  devour  its  leaves  with  impunity,  but  dogs  are  poisoned  by  its  juice, 
losing  their  power  of  muscular  co-ordination  and  strength,  and  dying  with  dilated  pupils, 
without  coma  or  convulsions.  On  man  it  acts  externally  as  an  irritant,  some  persons 
being  much  more  susceptible  than  others  to  its  influence.  Even  air  impregnated  with 
the  exhalations  of  the  leaves  is  sufficient  to  produce  an  eczematous  inflammation  of  the 
skin.  This  is  characterized  by  violent  itching,  redness,  and  swelling,  followed  by  heat, 
pain,  fever,  and  vesication,  which,  upon  the  face  and  genitals  particularly,  may  be 
attended  with  extreme  tumefaction.  These  symptoms  begin  between  a few  hours  and 
several  days  after  the  application  of  the  poison,  and  are  usually  at  their  height  on  the 
fourth  or  fifth  day,  after  which  desquamation  commences.  But  sometimes  they  continue 
active  for  a longer  time.  The  juice  of  the  plant  applied  to  the  skin  will,  in  the  course  of 
forty-eight  hours,  produce  a blister  which  is  soon  surrounded  with  vesicles,  and  later  a 
similar  eruption  may  take  place  upon  distant  parts  of  the  body  without  the  primary 
blisters  having  been  ruptured.  The  eruption  is  attended  with  severe  burning  and 
itching.  Usually,  however,  the  more  distant  irritation  is  due  to  the  discharge  from  the 
primary  one  being  conveyed  elsewhere  by  the  hands.  Japanese  lacquer,  which  is  pre- 
pared from  the  juice  of  this  plant,  exhales  a vapor  that  produces  the  characteristic 
eruption  (Prentiss,  Therap.  Gaz .,  xiii.  447).  But  there  are  some  cases  of  poisoning  by 
this  plant,  taken  internally,  which  seem  to  be  attended  with  a vesicular  eruption  of  the 
skin  (Med.  Record , xxx.  601  ; Therap.  Gaz.,  xiii.  448).  A case  is  reported  of  a woman 
who  used  the  leaves  of  the  plant  instead  of  paper  after  defecation,  and  who  suffered, 
besides  the  general  affection  of  the  skin,  from  symptoms  of  inflammation  of  the  rectum 
(Rhila.  Med.  Times , xii.  636).  Internally,  it  gives  rise  to  a species  of  intoxication,  with 
vertigo,  confusion  of  the  senses,  dilatation  of  the  pupils,  a sense  of  constriction  of  the  tem- 
ples, chilliness,  nausea,  thirst,  a slow,  small,  and  irregular  pulse,  diaphoresis,  and  diuresis, 
debility,  faintness,  trembling,  and  convulsions.  Two  children  who  between  them  had 
eaten  a pint  of  the  berries  became  drowsy  and  stupid,  and  then  delirious  and  convulsed. 

Various  remedies  have  been  employed  to  palliate  the  inflammation  caused  by  poison 
oak.  If  the  inflammation  is  early  seen,  it  should  be  washed  with  warm  water  and  soap 
or  sodium  bicarbonate.  Alum-curd  is  appropriate  at  all  stages  of  the  process.  Before 
the  blisters  have  fully  formed  or  have  discharged  their  contents  lead-water  is  useful, 
but  a weak  solution  of  ammonia  or  a strong  one  of  sodium  carbonate  or  sulphite,  or 
the  solution  of  chlorinated  soda,  is  perhaps  still  more  so.  Cosmoline  allays  the  itching 
and  burning.  When  the  blisters  are  mature  or  have  been  ruptured,  a solution  of*  iron 
perchloride  or  persulphate  or  of  zinc  sulphate,  or  simply  lime-water,  carefully  applied 
to  the  vesicated  skin,  will,  arrest  the  progress  of  the  inflammation.  Grindelia  squar- 
rosa  has  also  been  used  for  this  purpose.  These  articles  are  more  or  less  palliative, 
but  no  one  of  them  is  strictly  curative.  Of  the  great  number  used,  the  following  may  be 
mentioned  besides  those  already  named:  Hamamelis,  stramonium,  lobelia,  sassafras-bark, 
elder-bark,  boneset,  gelsemium,  dulcamara,  serpentaria,  spice-bush  ; oak-bark,  tannin,  zinc, 
bismuth,  lead,  alum  ; potassium  chlorate,  carbolic  acid,  oxalic  axid,  copper  sulphate, 
black-wash,  bromine.  It  is  evident  that  these  agents  are  divisible  into  protective,  astrin- 
gent, and  stimulant,  and  that  each  group  is  most  applicable  to  a special  stage  or  grade 
of  the  affection. 

The  inflammation  of  the  skin  which  poison  oak  excites  led  to  its  being  employed  sub- 
stitutively  in  chronic  cutaneous  affections,  but  there  is  no  proof  of  its  efficiency,  as  there 
is  in  sciatica , for  which  it  has  been  used.  It  has  been  alleged  to  be  efficacious  in  the 
treatment  of  paraplegia,  from  concussion  of  the  spinal  marrow,  and  other  affections  of 
this  organ  without  lesion  of  tissue ; it  is  said  to  occasion  no  inconvenience,  and  to 
strengthen  rather  than  enfeeble  digestion.  Sometimes  a slight  degree  of  strangury  is 
observed.  It  has  also  been  used  to  cure  incontinence  of  urine  depending  upon  atony  of 
the  bladder.  In  the  early  part  of  this  century  this  plant  was  extensively  employed  in 
the  treatment  of  paralytic  affections,  but  it  fell  into  complete  disuse  (Richter,  Ausfiihr. 
Arzneiin.,  ii.  805  ; Stille,  Therapeutics,  4th  ed.  ii.  795).  Some  recent  reports  of  its  effi- 
ciency were  published  by  Aulde  (Med.  News , liv.  446;  Therap.  Gaz.,  xiii.  676),  but  as 
the  dose  employed  represented  only  half  a drop  of  the  official  tincture,  the  statements  can 
hardly  be  regarded  as  conclusive.  A recent  writer  (who  incorrectly  states  that  “ it  is  offi- 
cial (sic)  in  the  German  Pharmacopoeia  ”)  reiterates  the  above  statements  of  its  utility  in 


1384 


ROBINIA.— ROS^E  CANINjE  fructus. 


nervous,  rheumatic,  cutaneous,  and  urinary  disorders  {Med.  News , lxiii.  390).  It  is, 
however,  pronounced  by  Ilusemann  ( Arzneimittellehre , 3d  ed.  p.  440)  an  obsolete  medi- 
cine ; and  Dr.  H.  C.  Wood,  who  tested  the  alleged  efficacy  of  the  drug  in  various  forms 
of  rheumatism , found  that  it  gave  no  definite  good  result .( Therap.  Gaz.,  xiv.  95).  One 
physician  found  it  useful  in  spinal  anaemia  if  associated  with  nux  vomica,  and  that  it 
reduces  the  temperature  if  administered  with  gelsemium  ; which  may  very  readily  be 
credited — much  more  readily  than  that  it  is  “ a laxative,  diaphoretic,  diuretic,  and  par- 
ticularly a stimulant  of  the  nervous  system,”  which  is  asserted  by  the  same  authority 
{Detroit  Lancet , Jan.  1880).  The  dose  of  the  powdered  leaves,  which  should  be  gradually 
increased,  is  Gm.  0.30-4  (gr.  v to  gr.  lx).  On  the  whole,  the  medicinal  virtues  of  this 
plant  are  too  uncertain  to  inspire  any  confidence. 

ROBINIA. — Locust  Tree. 

False  acacia , E. ; Robinier , Fr. ; Falsche  Akazie , G. 

Robinia  Pseudacacia,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord\ — Leguminosae,  Papilionacese. 

Description. — The  common  locust  tree  is  indigenous  to  the  southern  part  of  the 
United  States,  but  is  commonly  cultivated  and  naturalized  farther  north  and  in  Europe. 
It  is  thorny  when  young,  attains  a height  of  18  to  24  M.  (60  or  80  feet),  but  is  smaller 
in  northern  localities,  and  has  a durable  white  or  reddish  wood  and  a brownish  or  gray, 
smooth,  and  internally  yellowish  bark.  Its  leaves  are  imparipinnate,  the  leaflets  in  from 
eight  to  twelve  pairs,  oval,  obtuse,  and  smooth,  and  the  fragrant  whitish  flowers  in  long 
slender  racemes.  The  legume  is  about  8 Cm.  (3  inches)  long,  linear,  flat,  margined  on 
the  inner  side,  and  contains  about  six  blackish-brown  small  seeds.  The  root  and  inner 
bark  have  a sweetish  taste. 

Constituents. — The  root  was  examined  by  H.  Reinsch  (1845),  who  found  it  to  con- 
tain much  albumen,  tannin,  sugar,  starch,  and  other  common  vegetable  principles.  His 
robinic  acid  is  believed  by  Hlasiwetz  (1852)  to  be  asparagin , of  which  he  obtained  2? 
ounces  from  30  pounds  of  the  root.  Power  and  Cambier  (1890)  isolated  from  the  bark 
choline , a globulin,  and  an  albumose.  The  latter  is  tasteless,  soluble  in  water,  coagulated 
and  rendered  inert  by  heat.  It  is  precipitated  by  potassium-bismuth  iodide,  and  by  tan- 
nin, and  from  its  acidulated  solutions  by  potassium  ferrocyanide.  It  is  an  emetic  and 
purgative.  According  to  Zwenger  and  Dronke  (1861),  the  flowers  contain  a yellow  glu 
coside,  robinin,  which,  on  being  boiled  with  acids,  is  resolved  into  sugar  and  quercetin , and 
which  is  also  contained  in  the  bark  and  wood. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  bark  of  the  root  of  Robinia  is  said  to  be  tonic,  and  in  large 
doses  purgative  and  emetic,  and  a syrup  prepared  from  the  flowers  is  related  to  have  pro- 
duced acro-narcotic  effects  in  children.  Gendron  mentions  that  certain  boys  who  had 
chewed  some  of  the  bark  and  swallowed  the  juice  were  affected  not  only  with  vomiting, 
but  with  coma  and  slight  convulsions  (Griffith,  Med.  Botany).  Gelcich  reports  two  cases 
of  poisoning  in  the  same  manner.  The  symptoms  were  burning  in  the  throat  and  stomach, 
stupor,  dilated  pupils,  staggering,  muscular  spasms,  and  drawing  of  the  knees  upward. 
In  one  of  the  cases,  a child  three  years  old,  there  were  extreme  pallor,  livid  lips,  sunken 
eyes,  and  absence  of  pulse.  Recovery  in  both  cases  took  place  after  the  use  of  diffusible 
and  mechanical  stimulants  {Philada.  Med.  Times , Apr.  24,  1880).  No  definite  informa- 
tion concerning  its  medicinal  virtues  is  accessible. 

ROS^E  CANINE  FRUCTUS,  Br.— Hips. 

Cynosbata , Fructus  cynosbati. — Fruit  of  the  dog  rose , E. ; Gratte-cul , Fr. ; Cynorrhodon , 
Fr.  Cod. ; Ilagebutte , Hainbutte,  G. ; Cinosbato , Escaraninjo,  Una  de  gato,  Sp. 

The  ripe  fruit  of  the  dog  rose,  Rosa  canina,  Linne , and  other  indigenous  allied  species. 
Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 103. 

Nat.  Ord. — Rosacese,  Roseae. 

Origin. — The  dog  rose  is  a spiny  European  shrub,  from  1.2— 2.4  M.  (4  to  8 feet)  high, 
and  resembles  the  roses  indigenous  to  this  country,  but  differs  from  them  in  the  shape  of 
the  calyx  and  in  the  absence  of  glandular  hairs  on  the  peduncle  and  calyx. 

Description. — Ilips  are  not  the  fruit,  but  the  enlarged  calyx-tubes,  of  the  rose. 
They  are  about  25  Mm.  (1  inch)  in  length,  ovate,  contracted  above,  of  a bright-red 
color,  shining,  internally  stiff-haired,  and  enclose  a number  of  ovate,  hairy,  brownish, 
bony  akenes.  Hips  are  at  first  tough  and  crowned  with  the  five-cleft  deciduous  calyx- 


ROSA  CENTIFOLIA.— ROSA  GALLIC  A. 


1385 


lobes ; later  in  autumn  they  are  naked  above,  softer,  and  more  fleshy.  They  are  inodor- 
ous and  have  a sweet  acidulous  and  somewhat  astringent  taste.  For  medicinal  use  the 
hard  akenes  are  removed  and  the  fleshy  calyx-tube  alone  is  employed.  The  corresponding 
part  of  Rosa  Carolina,  Linne , and  R.  lucida,  Ehrhart  (Meehan,  Native  Flowers , i.  169  ; ii. 
133),  is  depressed  globular,  the  former  somewhat  hairy,  and  has  properties  similar  to  those 
of  the  first. 

Constituents. — Scheele  already  noticed  malic  and  citric  acid  in  the  pulp.  Biltz 
(1824)  obtained  7.78  per  cent,  of  malic  and  2.95  per  cent,  of  citric  acid  ; also  30.6  per 
cent,  of  sugar,  25  per  cent,  of  gum,  and  small  quantities  of  tannin,  resin,  wax,  malates, 
citrates,  and  other  salts. 

Action  and  Uses. — Hips  are  described  as  slightly  refrigerant  and  astringent,  but 
they  are  used  in  medicine  only  to  prepare  the  confection  of  hips. 

ROSA  CENTIFOLIA,  U.  S.— Pale  Rose. 

Rosse  centi/olise  petala,  Br. ; Flores  rosse,  P.  G. ; Flores  rosarum  incarnatarum. — Cab- 
bage rose-petals , Hundred-leaved  rose , E. ; Rose  d cent  feuilles , Rose  pale,  Fr.  Cod.;  Centi- 
folienrose , Rosenbldtter,  Gr. ; Rosa  pallida,  Rosa  de  Castilla , Sp. 

The  petals  of  Rosa  centifolia,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 105. 

Nat.  Ord. — Rosaceae,  Roseae. 

Origin. — This  weil-known  shrub,  which  is  by  some  botanists  regarded  as  a cultivated 
variety  of  the  red  rose,  is  probably  indigenous  to  Western  Asia,  and  is  cultivated  in 
innumerable  varieties  in  all  countries.  Its  branches  are  covered  with  numerous  nearly 
straight  spines;  the  petioles  and  peduncles  are  nearly  unarmed,  but  more  or  less  clothed 
with  glandular  bristles,  and  the  leaves  have  five,  or  sometimes  seven,  ovate  or  elliptic-oval 
serrate  glandular  and  beneath  soft-hairy  leaflets.  The  flowers  are  collected  and  deprived 
of  the  calyx  and  ovaries,  the  petals  alone  being  employed. 

Description. — The  petals  are  roundish-obovate,  retuse  at  the  apex  or  almost  obcord- 
ate,  of  a pink  color,  a delicious  rose  odor,  and  of  a sweetish,  somewhat  bitter,  and  slightly 
astringent  taste.  In  drying  they  become  brownish  and  less  fragrant. 

Constituents. — The  odor  of  rose-petals  is  due  to  a minute  quantity  of  volatile  oil 
(see  page  1147).  Enz  (1867)  determined  the  other  constituents  to  be  tannin,  giving  a 
green  reaction  with  ferric  salts,  fat,  resin,  sugar,  mucilage,  a bitter  principle,  malates, 
tannates,  and  phosphates,  and  a coloring  matter  which  is  easily  altered,  and,  from  the 
investigations  of  Fremy,  Cloez,  Filhol,  and  others,  seems  to  be  identical  with  that  of  the 
red  rose  and  of  many  other  red-colored  flowers. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Rose-petals  are  employed  chiefly  in  the  distillation  of 
rose-water,  and  are  for  this  purpose  often  preserved  by  being  packed  into  suitable  vessels 
with  one-half  or  their  own  weight  of  common  salt.  It  is  stated  that  in  some  laboratories 
the  entire  rose-flowers  are  used  in  the  distillation  of  rose-water,  and  furnish  a good 
product. 

Action  and  Uses.— Pale  rose-leaves  are  seldom  used  medicinally  except  in  the 
form  of  the  official  rose-water.  The  nervous  symptoms  and  occasionally  the  coryza 
ascribed  to  fresh  roses  are  apt  to  be  produced  by  other  odorous  flowers. 

ROSA  GALLICA,  U.  8.— Red  Rose. 

Rosse  gallicse  petala,  Br. ; Flores  rosarum  rubrarum. — Red-rose  petals , E. ; Rose 
rouge , Rose  de  Provins , Fr.  Cod.;  Essigrose , Sammtrose , Zuckerrose,  G. ; Rosa  roja , R. 
rubra , Sp. 

The  petals  of  Rosa  gallica,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 104. 

Nat.  Ord. — Rosaceae,  Roseae. 

Origin. — The  red  rose  is  a bushy  shrub  60-90  Cm.  (2  or  3 feet)  high,  which  grows 
wild  in  Southern  Europe  and  the  Levant  and  is  cultivated  in  gardens  in  numerous  varie- 
ties. It  is  armed  with  bristly  prickles  and  with  a few  curved  spines,  and  has  slightly 
heart-shaped  and  thicker  leaflets  than  the  preceding  species.  The  flowers  are  collected 
while  still  in  bud,  and  the  petals  cut  off  near  the  base  and  rapidly  dried. 

Description. — As  seen  in  commerce,  red  rose  is  in  small  cones  consisting  of  the 
numerous  densely-imbricated  petals,  which,  when  unfolded,  are  roundish,  retuse  at  the 
apex,  and  at  the  base  narrowed  into  a short  yellow  claw,  the  greater  portion  of  which  has 
been  trimmed  off’;  the  centre  of  the  cone  is  hollow  or  it  contains  some  of  the  stamens. 
The  color  is  deep  purplish-red,  velvety  in  aspect ; the  odor  is  roseate  and  the  taste  bit- 


1386 


ROSMARINUS.— R UR  US. 


terish,  slightly  acid,  and  astringent.  Red  rose  should  be  preserved  in  a dry  place  and 
excluded  from  the  light. 

Constituents. — The  chemical  constituents  of  red  rose  are  very  similar  to,  if  not 
identical  with,  those  of  pale  rose,  but  the  astringent  principle  is  more  predominating. 
Filhol  (1863)  denied  the  existence  of  tannin  in  red-rose  petals;  by  extracting  them  with 
ether  two  fats  and  quercitrin  were  obtained,  to  which  the  dark-green  reaction  with  ferric 
salts  is  due  ; alcohol  afterward  took  up  a little  gallic  acid  and  nearly  20  per  cent.  (?)  of 
invert-sugar.,  Rochleder  (1867),  however,  ascribed  the  reaction  with  iron  to  quercetic  and 
a little  gallic  acid.  The  coloring  principle  of  red  rose  was  isolated  by  H.  Lenier  (1877) 
by  exhausting  the  petals  with  ether,  and  afterward  with  alcohol ; the  tincture  was  pre- 
cipitated by  lead  acetate,  and  this  precipitate  decomposed  by  an  insufficient  quantity  of 
sulphuric  acid  in  the  presence  of  alcohol.  The  coloring  matter  becomes  deep-red,  with 
a bright-green  fluorescence,  by  alkalies  ; it  decomposes  carbonates,  yields  with  alkalies 
crystallizable  compounds,  and  is  precipitated  by  salts  of  alkaline  earths  and  metals,  the 
lead  salt  having  the  composition  Pb2C21H29O30. 

Action  and  Uses. — Red-rose  leaves  were  anciently  used  in  infusion  as  a cooling  and 
astringent  remedy  for  inflamed  uterine  and  other  haemorrhages , and  as  an  application 
to  aphthae  and  other  ulcers  affecting  the  mouth,  ears,  anus,  etc.,  and  the  fresh  bruised 
leaves  were  applied  to  inflamed  eyes.  etc. 

A compound  infusion  of  rose,  containing  sugar  and  diluted  sulphuric  acid  (U.  S.  P. 
1870),  is  employed  as  a coloring  and  flavoring  ingredient  of  mixtures,  and  as  an  excipient 
and  solvent  for  magnesium  sulphate  and  for  quinine  sulphate,  whose  taste  it  partially 
covers.  It  forms  an  agreeable  gargle  for  inflamed  and  ulcerated  states  of  the  mouth  and 
fauces , and  may  be  used  to  moderate  profuse  sweats.  Its  virtues  are  largely  due  to  the 
sulphuric  acid  it  contains.  Dose , from  Gm.  64-128  (fgij— iv). 

ROSMARINUS,  77.  Rosemary. 

Folia  rosmarini,  s.  roris  marini , Folia  anthos. — Romarin , Fr.  Cod. ; Rosmarin , G. ; 
Romero , Sp. 

The  leaves  of  Rosmarinus  officinalis,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 207. 

Nat.  Ord. — Labiatse,  Monardese. 

Origin. — Rosemary  is  a native  of  the  basin  of  the  Mediterranean,  and 
is  often  cultivated  in  gardens.  It  is  shrubby,  .9-1.2  M.  (3  or  4 feet)  high, 
much  branched,  evergreen,  and  has  few-flowered  axillary  clusters  of  rather 
large  pale-blue  flowers. 

Description. — Rosemary-leaves  are  about  25  Mm.  (1  inch)  long, 
leathery,  linear,  entire,  sessile,  obtuse  at  both  ends,  dark -green  above, 
densely  woolly  and  dotted  with  oil-glands  beneath,  and  revolute  on  the 
margin.  In  drying  the  margin  becomes  more  strongly  revolute,  the 
leaf  narrower  and  rigid,  and  the  midrib  prominent  on  the  lower  side. 
Rosemary  has  a peculiar  aromatic  somewhat  camphoraceous  odor  and  a 
pungently  aromatic  taste. 

Constituents. — The  principal  constituent  is  the  volatile  oil  (see 
page  1148).  A little  tannin,  resin,  and  bitter  principle  are  likewise 
present. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — The  leaves  are  employed  in  the  prep- 
aration of  fumigating  powders  and  the  distillation  of  the  volatile 
oil. 

Action  and  Uses. — By  the  ancients  rosemary  was  esteemed  for  its 
emmenagogue,  galactagogue,  and  diuretic  virtues,  and  more  recently 
it  was  regarded  as  diaphoretic  and  carminative,  and  as  useful  in  various 
functional  nervous  disorders.  In  Europe  it  is  sometimes  still  employed 
for  similar  purposes.  An  infusion  prepared  with  Gm.  4-8  in  Gm.  500 
(gr.  lx-cxx  in  Oj)  may  be  prescribed  in  tablespoonful  doses.  Fomenta- 
tions, made  with  the  plant  steeped  in  hot  water  or  alcohol,  and  ointments 
prepared  with  it,  are  used  for  the  relief  of  local  pains. 

RUBUS,  77.  S. — Blackberry. 

Ronce  sauvage , Ronce  noir,  Fr.  Cod. ; Brombeeren , G. ; Zarzamora , Sp. 

The  bark  of  the  root  of  Rubus  villosus,  Alton,  Rubus  Canadensis,  Linne,  and  of  Rubus 
trivialis,  Michaux.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 100. 


Fig.  245. 


Kosmarinus  offici- 
nalis, Linne: 
branch  and  flow- 
er. 


RUB  US  IDJEUS. 


1387 


Nat.  Orel. — Rosacea©,  Dryadeae. 

Origin. — These  species  are  common  shrubby  North  American  plants  with  trifoliate  or 
quinate  leaves.  R.  Canadensis  is  the  dewberry , and  has  a trailing  slightly  prickly  stem 
and  nearly  smooth  ovate-lanceolate,  sharply  serrate  leaflets.  R.  villosus  is  the  common 
American  blackberry , has  an  upright  or  reclining  stem  armed  with  stout  recurved  prickles, 
and  is  glandular  and  hairy  on  the  branchlets  and  the  lower  surface  of  the  leaflets,  and 
ripens  its  fruit  later  than  the  first  species.  R.  trivialis  is  the  dewberry  or  bush-blackberry 
of  the  Southern  United  States,  growing  as  far  north  as  Maryland  ; it  is  armed  with 
bristles  and  recurved  prickles,  and  has  coriaceous,  evergreen,  nearly  smooth  leaflets. 

Description. — The  roots  of  these  species  are  considerably  branched,  vary  in  size 
from  the  thickness  of  a goosequill  or  less  to  the  diameter  of  25  Mm.  (1  inch)  or  more, 
and  contain  a large  whitish,  tough,  ligne- 
ous meditullium.  The  bark  is  quite  thin, 
blackish  or  in  the  dewberry  blackish-gray, 
externally,  internally  dark -brown,  and  the 
inner  surface  pale-brownish  and  smooth, 
tough,  breaks  with  some  difficulty,  shows 
in  the  bast-wedges  a tangential  arrange- 
ment of  the  tissue,  is  nearly  inodorous, 
and  has  a strongly  astringent  and  some- 
what bitter  taste.  The  thinnest  roots 
are  frequently  not  deprived  of  the  white, 
tasteless,  and  inert  wood.  The  leaves  of 
most  species  of  this  genus  have  an  as- 
tringent and  somewhat  bitter  taste ; those  of  R.  fruticosus,  Linne , are  medicinally 
employed  in  Europe. 

Constituents. — Blackberry-bark  contains  tannin,  of  which  C.  F.  Kramer  (1882) 
obtained  10.2  per  cent. ; its  other  constituents  have  not  been  investigated. 

Action  and  Uses. — Blackberry-root  and  dewberry-root  possess  astringent  and 
probably  tonic  virtues,  and  are  much  used  in  summer  complaint,  and  infantile  diarrhoea. 
They  are  best  administered  in  a decoction  made  with  water  or  with  milk,  Gm.  32  in  Gm. 
750,  reduced  to  Gm.  500  (gj  in  Oiss,  reduced  to  Oj). 

The  roots  and  leaves  of  several  species  of  Rubus  were  anciently  employed  internally 
as  diuretics  and  externally  as  dressings  for  wounds  and  ulcers.  In  Russia  an  infusion 
of  the  leaves  of  R.  chamcelmorus  has  long  been  used  as  a remedy  for  debility  of  the 
bladder  (Strumpf,  Handbuch,  i.  288).  In  recent  times  Popoff’  and  others  have  confirmed 
the  efficiency  of  this  treatment  ( Lancet , Mar.  6,  1866),  and  obtained  from  the  plant  an 
acid  which,  combined  with  alkalies,  showed  a diuretic  action  whether  given  internally 
or  subcutaneously  (JLond.  Med.  Record , June  15,  1886).  Troitsky  employed  an  infu- 
sion of  the  leaves  successfully  in  dropsy  (Centralbl.  f.  d.  g.  Therap.,  v,  540). 

RUBUS  ID^EUS,  U.  S.— Raspberry. 

Framboise , Fr.  Cod. ; Himbeeren , G. ; Frambuesa , Sanguesa , Sp. 

The  fruit  of  Rubus  Idaeus,  Liyme. 

Nat.  Ord. — Rosaceae,  Dryadeae. 

Origin. — This  shrub  attains  a height  of  about  1.8  M.  (6  feet),  is  indigenous  to  the 
greater  portion  of  Europe  and  to  Northern  Asia  as  far  east  as  Japan,  and  is  frequently  cul- 
tivated. Areschong  (1872)  regards  it  as  being  derived  from  Rubus  strigosus,  Michaux, 
which  is  common  in  North  America  and  Japan.  The  young  shoots  are  glaucous,  more  or 
less  bristly-spinous,  and  have  imparipinnate  leaves  with  one  to  three  pairs  of  sessile, 
ovate,  serrate,  and  whitish-downy  leaflets.  The  flowers  have  five  white  petals,  about  as 
long  as  the  calyx-lobes. 

Description. — The  fruit  is  hemispherical  or  subconical,  and  consists  of  about  twenty 
or  thirty  small  red  velvety-hairy  drupes,  which  are  laterally  coalesced  and  separate  in  a 
collective  mass  from  the  dry  conical  receptacle.  Raspberries,  which  are  used  in  the 
fresh  state  only,  contain  a bright-red  juice  and  have  an  agreeable  fruity  odor  and  a pleas- 
ant acidulous  taste. 

The  fruit  of  the  North  American  Rubus  occidentalis,  Linne,  or  tliimbleberry , closely 
resembles  the  preceding,  but  is  of  a purplish-black  color  and  has  a dark-red  juice. 

Constituents. — Raspberries  contain  4.5  to  8.7  per  cent,  of  insoluble  matter,  .4  to  .8 
per  cent,  of  ash,  and  7 to  8.5  per  cent,  of  organic  constituents,  about  one-lialf  of  which  is 


1388 


RUMEX.— RUT  A. 


sugar,  one-fourth  is  malic  and  citric  acids,  and  the  remainder  consists  of  protcids,  pectin, 
etc.  The  odor  is  due  to  a volatile  oil  consisting  of  compound  ethers,  and  when  distilled 
with  water  the  distillate  separates  a white  flocculent  stearopten. 

Allied  Fruits. — Blackberries. — Dewberries,  E. ; Mures  des  haies,  Baies  de  ronce,  Fr.  ; Brom- 
beeren,  G.;  Zarzamoras , Sp. — The  fruit  of  Rubus  villosus,  Alton , of  North  America,  R.  fruti- 
cosus,  Linne , of  Europe,  and  allied  species,  has  a fleshy  receptacle,  which  remains  united  with 
the  coalesced  drupes,  is  of  a black  or  blackish  color,  and  contains  a blackish-purple  juice  resem- 
bling in  composition  the  juice  of  raspberries,  but  of  a less  delicate  odor. 

Uses. — The  sole  use  of  this  fruit  in  medicine  is  to  prepare  an  agreeable  syrup. 

RUMEX,  U.  S.—, Rumex. 

Radix  rumicis  s.  lapathi. — Yellow  dock , E.  ; Patience , Fr.  Cod. ; Grindwurz,  Mengel- 
wurz,  G. ; Lapato , Sp. 

The  root  of  Rumex  crispus,  Linne , and  of  other  species  of  Rumex. 

Nat.  Ord. — Polygonaceae. 

Origin. — -The  curled  dock  is  a European  perennial,  and  has  been  extensively  natural- 
ized in  North  America  and  in  other  countries.  It  grows  in  waste  places  and  in  cultivated 
ground,  and  is  distinguished  from  allied  species  by  the  wavy  curled  margins  of  its  lanceo- 
late leaves,  and  by  the  roundish-cordate,  slightly  denticulate,  and  grain-bearing  valves  of 
the  fruit.  The  root  is  collected  in  autumn. 

Description. — The  root  is  20-30  Cm.  (8  to  13  inches)  long,  6-18  Mm.  (1  to  f inch) 
or  more  thick,  many-headed,  fusiform,  annulate  above,  somewhat  branched  and  sparsely 
beset  with  fibres ; after  drying  deeply  wrinkled  longitudinally,  externally  of  a brown  or 
reddish-brown  color,  inodorous,  and  of  a bitter  and  astringent  taste.  The  root  breaks 
with  a short  irregular  fracture,  and  upon  transverse  section  shows  a rather  thick  bark 
nearly  one-sixth  the  diameter  of  the  root,  a dark-colored  cambium-line,  and  a fleshy 
meditullium,  containing  porous  wood-wedges,  separated  by  narrow  medullary  rays.  The 
color  of  the  inner  tissue  is  white  or  whitish,  after  drying  dingy  brown-yellow,  with 
yellowish  or  brownish-red  striae.  The  roots  of  Rumex  obtusifolius,  Linne , and  R.  san- 
guineus, Linne , both  indigenous  to  Europe  and  naturalized  in  North  America,  are  indis- 
criminately collected  with  the  preceding  and  resemble  it. 

Constituents. — The  chemical  composition  of  yellow  dock  is  nearly  identical  with 
that  of  rhubarb,  except  in  the  relative  proportion  of  the  constituents,  the  astringency  pre- 
dominating. The  rumicin  and  lapathin  of  earlier  investigators  were  proven  by  Tann 
(1858)  to  be  identical  with  chrysophanic  acid. 

Action  and  Uses. — Yellow  or  curled  dock  is  astringent,  slightly  tonic,  and  also 
laxative,  and  in  its  operation  has  been  compared  to  rhubarb  and  also  sarsaparilla.  It 
has  been  chiefly  used  in  chronic  cutaneous  diseases , particularly  of  a scrofulous  nature. 
Some  species  of  Rumex  have  been  famous  for  the  cure  of  intermittent  fevers , for  which 
purpose  they  were  given  in  a hot  decoction,  to  the  production  of  sweating.  Others  have 
been  regarded  as  eminently  depurative,  and  used  in  chronic  hepatic  congestion  and  dyspep- 
sia with  lateritious  urinary  deposits  and  a tendency  to  gout.  Externally,  yellow  dock  has 
been  applied  to  the  treatment  of  various  skin  diseases , glandular  swellings , and  scabies . 
For  the  last  an  ointment  is  employed,  made  by  boiling  the  root  in  vinegar  until  the  fibre 
is  softened ; the  latter  is  then  reduced  to  a pulp  and  mixed  with  sulphur  and  lard.  It  is 
pretty  certain  that  the  sulphur  is  the  efficient  ingredient  of  this  ointment.  The  fresh 
leaf  when  bruised  is  a popular  antidote  to  the  eruption  caused  by  the  stinging  nettle.  The 
root,  softened  by  boiling,  may  be  used  as  a stimulant  and  resolvent  cataplasm.  The 
decoction  is  made  by  boiling  2 ounces  of  the  fresh  root  or  1 ounce  of  the  dry  root, 
bruised,  Gm.  64  or  32  in  Gm.  500  (a  pint)  of  water.  Of  this  2 fluidounces  may  be  taken 
at  a dose. 

R.  sanguineus  and  R.  aquaticus  are  astringent,  especially  the  seeds  : R.  alpinus  is  com- 
pared to  rhubarb  for  its  bitterness  and  astringency ; R.  acutus  has  been  much  used  in 
pulp  as  a dressing  for  cancerous  and  other  foul  ulcers  ; R.  acetatus  is  employed  like  sorrel 
for  culinary  purposes. 


RUT  A. — Rue. 

Rue,  Fr.  Cod. ; Raute , Gartenraute , G.  ; Rada,  Sp. 

The  leaves  of  Ruta  graveolens,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 44. 
Nat.  Ord. — Rutacese,  Rutese. 


RUT  A. 


1389 


Description. — Rue  is  an  herbaceous  or  suffruticose  perennial  60-90  Cm.  (2  or  3 feet) 
high,  which  grows  wild  throughout  Southern  Europe  and  is  frequently  cultivated  in  gar- 
dens. The  leaves  are  alternate,  on  long  petioles,  thrice  or  twice  pinnate,  or  the  upper 
ones  pinnatifid,  the  lower  ones  7-10  Cm.  (3  to  4 inches)  long,  triangular-ovate  in  out- 
line, subcoriaceous,  grayish-green,  finely  pellucid-punctate  and  smooth  ; the  final  divis- 
ions obovate-oblong  or  spatulate,  sparingly  crenate,  obtuse  or  rounded  above,  the  ter- 
minal division  larger  and  spatulate  wedge-shaped.  The  plant  has  yellowish  flowers  in 
terminal  corymbs,  and  four-  or  five-lobed  capsules  containing  numerous  ovoid-angular 
blackish  seeds.  The  leaves  have  a peculiar,  strongly  balsamic  odor  and  possess  an  aromatic, 
bitter,  and  acrid  taste. 

Constituents. — The  most  important  constituent  of  rue  is  its  volatile  oil  (see  page 
1149).  Maehl  found  free  malic  acid.  Weiss*(1842)  isolated  the  yellow  coloring  matter, 
rutin,  C25H2S0I5,  and  obtained  it  in  needle-shaped  crystals.  Borntrager  (1844)  ascertained 
it  to  possess  acid  properties,  and  named  it  rutinic  acid.  Hlasiwetz  (1855)  observed  that 
it  splits  into  sugar  and  quercetin,  and  regarded  it  as  identical  with  quercitrin  ; but  Zwen- 
ger  and  Dronke  found  the  unfermen table  rutin-sugar  to  differ  from  isodulcit  and  to  have 
the  composition  C12H1809.  P.  Foerster  (1882)  obtained  between  44.5  and  46.5  per  cent, 
of  quercetin.  In  preparing  rutin  it  is  with  difficulty  purified  from  resinous  matter  and  a 
compound  resembling  coumarin. 

Allied  Drug. — Evodia  rutvecarpa,  Bentham  (Zanthoxyleae),  is  a handsome  Japanese  shrub 
about  2.4  M.  (8  feet)  high.  The  thin,  cylindrical,  downy  stalks  and  the  unripe  fruit  are  used ; 
the  latter  are  of  the  size  of  a small  pea,  five-grooved  in  the  upper  half,  red-brown,  glandular- 
pitted,  and  of  a rutaceous  odor  and  pungent  taste.  The  drug  is  employed  as  a purgative  and 
emmenagogue. 

Action  and  Uses. — Rue  is  an  active  irritant,  as  numerous  cases  of  poisoning  by  it 
attest.  In  one  example  a man  who  had  been  gathering  rue  suffered  from  an  inflammation 
of  the  skin  of  the  forearms  with  abundant  vesicles,  which  healed  very  slowly.  Three 
cases  are  reported  by  Helie,  in  which  rue  was  used  to  produce  abortion.  In  the  first  a 
decoction  of  the  sliced  root,  in  the  second  a decoction  of  the  leaves,  and  in  the  third  the 
expressed  juice  of  the  leaves,  was  taken.  In  one  of  the  cases  the  effects  were  violent 
gastric  pain,  vomiting  or  efforts  to  vomit,  with  the  rejection  of  a little  blood.  In  all 
there  were  great  prostration,  confusion  of  mind,  cloudy  vision,  feebleness  and  slowness  of 
pulse,  coldness  of  the  extremities,  and  twitching  of  the  limbs.  All  the  patients,  who  were 
in  the  fourth  or  fifth  month  of  pregnancy,  aborted  and  recovered.  In  another  case  a 
woman  had  several  times  caused  herself  to  abort  by  using  an  infusion  of  rue.  The  symp- 
toms produced  were  pain  in  the  back,  bearing  down,  frequent  micturition,  continuing  for 
several  days  and  often  attended  with  headache,  when  a “ show  ” took  place,  followed  by 
pains  and  abortion  about  ten  days  from  the  beginning  of  the  administration.  Three  doses 
of  the  oil  of  rue  taken  within  an  hour  by  a healthy  adult  produced  uneasiness  in  the 
stomach,  oppression  and  confusion  of  the  brain,  aching  in  the  loins,  an  urgent  desire  to 
urinate,  a strong  smell  of  rue  in  the  urine,  flushes  of  heat,  unsteadiness  of  gait,  a tend- 
ency to  sleep,  and  increased  frequency  and  diminished  tension  of  the  pulse.  On  the 
other  hand,  when  an  infusion  of  the  dried  leaves  was  employed  the  pulse  fell  from  80  to 
69  in  three  hours  (Van  de  Warker,  Criminal  Abortion , 1872). 

Capparis , the  pickled  flower-buds,  were  once  regarded  as  possessed  of  medicinal  virtues, 
but  are  now  employed  only  as  a condiment  for  fatty  meats.  (See  also  page  304.) 

Reseda  was  formerly  considered  diaphoretic  and  alexipharmic,  and  employed  as  an 
antidote  to  snake-bites  and  as  a vermifuge.  For  the  latter  purpose  it  is  still  used  in 
Russia. 

Rue  was  held  in  high  esteem  from  the  time  of  Hippocrates.  It  was  employed  to  cure 
amenorrhoea,  promote  the  lochia,  and  cause  abortion.  It  was  believed  that  in  women  it 
stimulated  sexual  desire,  but  that  in  men  it  diminished  the  seminal  secretion  and  the 
tendency  to  venery ; that  it  was  carminative  and  tonic,  and  useful  internally  and  extern- 
ally to  relieve  colic ; and  that  it  destroyed  intestinal  worms  and  cured  intermittent  fever. 
It  was  thought,  in  due  proportion,  to  strengthen,  but  in  excess  to  weaken,  the  sight,  and 
was  prescribed  as  an  antidote  to  poisoning  by  aconite,  mushrooms,  etc.  Externally,  it 
was  known  to  cause  a pustular  eruption  upon  the  hands  of  persons  employed  to  gather 
it,  and  was  used  to  destroy  fleas. 

Rue  is  a powerful  antispasmodic,  and  was  formerly  administered  in  enemata  for  pre- 
venting or  shortening  hysterical  attacks.  Its  stimulant  action  upon  the  uterus  is  shown 
in  the  unimpregnated  as  well  as  the  pregnant  state  of  the  organ,  but  especially  in  the 
cure  of  amenorrhoea  due  to  non-inflammatory  causes.  In  cases  arising  from  congestion 


1390 


SABADILLA. 


of  the  uterus  rue  has  sometimes  occasioned  profuse  haemorrhage  and  severe  pain.  It 
should,  therefore,  be  cautiously  used  in  dysmenorrhoea.  In  Chili  it  is  said  to  be  applied 
to  the  umbilicus  and  to  the  soles  of  the  feet  to  produce  an  emmenagogue  effect.  The 
essential  oil  is  the  most  convenient  form  for  its  administration.  Hue  has  been  used 
instead  of  savin  in  uterine  haemorrhage  after  abortion  and  when  it  depends  upon  general 
debility.  A decoction  of  the  fresh  leaves  of  rue  has  been  employed  as  an  injection  to 
destroy  ascarides  of  the  rectum,  and  internally  to  remove  lumbricoid  worms.  Externally, 
compresses  saturated  with  a strong  decoction  of  the  plant,  and  applied  to  the  chest,  have 
been  used  with  advantage  in  chronic  bronchitis.  A similar  decoction  has  been  found  very 
efficient  in  destroying  body  lice , in  various  scaly  eruptions , and  in  glandular  engorgements. 

The  decoction  and  infusion  of  rue  should  be  made  from  the  fresh  plant,  but  as  this  is 
not  always  to  be  procured,  the  oil  may  be  substituted  for  it  in  the  dose  of  from  1 to  5 
drops.  An  infusion  may  be  prepared  with  about  Gm.  16  in  6m.  500  Q§ss  in  Oj)  of 
water. 

SABADILLA,  Br. — Cevadilla. 


Cevadille , Fr.  Cod. ; Sabadillsamen , LauseJcorner,  G.  ; Cebadilla , Sp. 

The  seeds  of  Schoenocaulon  (Yeratrum,  Schlechtendal ) officinale,  Gray , Asagrsea 
(Helonias,  Bon ) officinalis,  Bindley , Sabadilla  officinarum,  Brandt.  Bentley  and  Tri- 
men, Med.  Plants.  287. 

Nat.  Orel. — Melanthaceae. 

Origin. — The  cevadilla  is  a bulbous  plant  with  long,  linear,  grass-like  radical  leaves 
and  a slender  scape,  bearing  a narrow  spike-like  raceme  about  30-45  Cm.  (12  or  18  inches) 
long,  of  greenish-yellow  flowers,  of  which  the  lower  ones  only  are  fertile.  It  is  indige- 
nous to  the  eastern  section  of  Mexico,  also  to  Guatemala  and  Venezuela.  The  plant 
growing  in  the  latter  country  differs  in  some  respects  from  the  Mexican  cevadilla,  but  no 
difference  is  observed  in  the  seeds.  The  seeds  alone  are  usually  exported  from  Venezuela, 
and  the  ripe  capsules  from  Mexico. 

Description. — The  fruit  consists  of  three  slightly-spreading,  brownish,  papery  fol- 
licles which  are  about  12  Mm.  (|  inch)  long,  and  are  either  empty  or  contain  from  two 

to  six  seeds  each.  These  are  from  5—8  Mm.  (4  to  3 inch) 
Fig.  247.  long,  narrow  oblong  or  lance-linear,  one  side  usually  flattened 

and  angular,  the  lower  end  rounded  and  the  apex  attenuate 
and  rather  beaked ; the  testa  is  rugosely  tinkled,  somewhat 
shining,  of  a brownish-black  color,  and  encloses  a whitish  oily 
albumen  and  at  the  base  a small  linear  embryo.  The  seeds 
are  inodorous  and  have  a bitter  and  persistently  acrid  taste  ; 
the  powder  is  sternutatory. 

Constituents. — Pelletier  and  Caventou’s  analysis  (1820) 
proved  the  presence  of  fat,  wax,  mucilage,  and  veratrine , 
combined  with  an  acid  which  was  at  first  supposed  to  be  gallic 
acid,  but  was  shown  by  Pfaff  to  be  a different  compound  : the 
fat  is  a mixture  of  liquid  and  solid  fat,  and  contains  a volatile 
fatty  acid,  sabadillic  or  cevadic  acid , which  has  an  odor  similar 
to  that  of  butyric  acid,  melts  at  20°  C.  (68°  F.)  and  at  a higher  heat  sublimes  in  white 
pearly  needles.  Veratrine  was  discovered  by  Meissner  (1819).  (For  recent  investiga- 
tions on  the  alkaloids  of  sabadilla  see  Veratrina.) 

Veratric  acid , C9H10O4,  was  discovered  by  Merck  (1839)  ; it  crystallizes  in  needles  or 
prisms  which  are  soluble  in  alcohol  and  hot  water,  but  insoluble  in  ether;  is  fusible  and 
sublimable,  and  yields  with  the  alkalies  crystallizable  salts  which  are  soluble  in  alcohol 
and  water. 

Cevadilla  yields  about  4 per  cent,  of  veratrine  and  about  per  cent,  of  veratric  acid. 
The  composition  of  the  capsular  integuments  has  not  been  ascertained.  The  seeds  are 
used  in  pharmacy  only  for  preparing  veratrine. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  medicinal  virtues  of  cevadilla  are  due  to  the  veratrine  it 
contains,  and  will  be  found  more  particularly  described  in  connection  with  that  alkaloid. 
The  seeds  are  poisonous  to  dogs  and  cats,  causing  vomiting  and  convulsions.  Two 
children  drank  of  a decoction  of  cevadilla  (?),  and  presented  the  following  symptoms: 
vomiting,  insensibility,  pallor,  a small  sharp  pulse,  heat  of  head  and  cool  extremity,  and 
spasms  of  the  face  and  limbs ; deglutition  was  impossible,  the  pupils  were  dilated,  and 
the  eyes  projecting  and  oscillating.  Both  patients  recovered  ( Prayer  Vierteljahrs.y  lxxi. 

117). 


Asagrsea  officinalis,  Lindley : fruit, 
nat.  size ; seed  and  longitudi- 
nal section  magnified. 


SA  BBA  TIA  .—SA  BIN  A. 


1391 


It  was  formerly  employed  to  destroy  body  lice  and  other  vermin,  but  sometimes,  when 
applied  to  the  sore  head,  it  has  occasioned  alarming  symptoms.  The  tincture  has  been 
found  a very  efficient  remedy  for  scabies.  The  powder  has  been  used  for  the  same  pur- 
pose, mixed  with  oir  and  brandy,  and  applied  after  the  patient  has  taken  a prolonged 
warm  bath.  Cevadilla  has  also  been  prescribed  as  a vermifuge  for  taenia  and  rectal  ascar- 
ides,  and  for  various  nervous  affections.  It  is  seldom  given  internally,  but  the  dose  of 
the  seeds  is  stated  to  be  from  Gm.  0.10-0.20  (gr.  ij— iv). 

SABBATIA.— Sabbatia. 

American  centaury , E.  ; Centauree  americaine,  Fr. ; Sabbatic,  G, 

The  herb  of  Sabbatia  (Chironia,  Linne ) angularis,  Pursh. 

Nat.  Ord. — Gentianeae,  Chironieae. 

Description. — The  American  centaury  is  a smooth  biennial  herb  growing  in  dry 
fields  and  on  hillsides  throughout  the  Middle  and  Southern  United  States.  Its  stem  is 
about  60  Cm.  (2  feet)  high,  quadrangular,  winged,  and  much  branched  above ; the  leaves 
are  about  25  Mm.  (1  inch)  long,  oblong-ovate,  five-nerved,  entire,  acute,  and  at  the  base 
clasping ; the  flowers  are  in  terminal  corymbose  panicles,  have  a five-  or  six-parted  calyx 
with  lance-linear  lobes,  a wheel-shaped  pale  or  purplish-red  corolla,  about  38  Mm.  (14 
inches)  wide,  five  or  six  finally  recurved  stamens,  and  produce  an  oblong-ovate,  mucronate, 
many-seeded  capsule.  It  blooms  in  July,  and  should  then  be  collected.  The  herb  is 
without  odor,  but  has  a persistent  and  purely  bitter  taste. 

Constituents. — The  plant  contains  the  principles  commonly  found  in  herbs,  but 
appears  to  be  free  from  tannin,  or  nearly  so : the  bitter  principle  has  not  been  obtained 
in  a pure  state.  Mehu  (1868)  isolated  erythrocentaurin , C27H2408,  by  agitating  the  syrupy 
alcoholic  extract  of  European  centaury  with  ether ; it  crystallizes  readily,  is  inodorous, 
tasteless,  neutral,  readily  soluble  in  carbon  disulphide,  benzene,  and  oils,  and  dissolves  in 
1600  parts  of  cold  water,  48  parts  of  alcohol,  13  of  chloroform,  and  245  parts  of  ether; 
light  colors  it  red,  but  on  recrystallization  it  is  again  obtained  colorless.  The  yield  is  only 
per  cent.  Mehu  obtained  (1870)  the  same  principle  also  from  Erythrsea  chilensis, 
Persoon , and  J.  F.  Huneker  (1871)  from  American  centaury. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparation. — Extractum  centaurii,  Extract  of  centaury. 
It  is  made  by  digesting  European  centaury  with  hot  water  and  evaporating  the  infusion. 

Allied  Herbs. — Sabbatia  Elliottii,  Steudel , is  known  in  Florida  as  quinine-flower.  The  stem 
is  25-50  Cm.  (10  to  20  inches)  high,  terete  and  diffusely  branched;  the  leaves  are  sessile,  6-12 
Mm.  (4  to  4 inch)  long,  obovate  or  oblanceolate,  and  the  upper  ones  linear ; the  calyx-lobes  are 
almost  filiform  and  about  one-fourth  the  length  of  the  rose-colored  corolla.  The  plant  is  inodor- 
ous and  has  a persistent,  purely  bitter  taste.  The  solution  of  the  alcoholic  extract  in  acidulated 
water  gives  with  potassio-mercuric  iodide  a slight  precipitate  (T.  F.  Beckert,  1877). 

Several  other  species  of  Sabbatia,  having  white,  rose-colored,  or  purplish  flowers,  are  indige- 
nous to  the  United  States,  particularly  in  the  Southern  States,  and  appear  to  possess  similar 
properties. 

Erythrsea  (Gentiana,  Linn£)  centaurium,  Persoon  ; Ilerba  centaurii,  P.  G. — European  cen- 
taury, E. ; Petite  centauree,  Fr. ; Tausendguldenkraut,  G. ; Centaura  menor,  Sp. — This  species 
closely  resembles  American  centaury,  but  has  oval  or  obovate-oblong,  obtuse,  three- or  five- 
nerved,  nearly  sessile  leaves,  and  the  parts  of  the  flowers  in  fives.  It  is  only  25-30  Cm.  (10  or 
12  inches)  high,  and  grows  spontaneously  in  a few  places  in  this  country. 

Erythrsea  chilensis,  Persoon , E.  stricta,  Schiede , E.  jorullensis,  Kunth , and  perhaps  other 
species  of  Mexico  and  South  America,  are  called  canchalagva,  and  used  as  bitter  tonics. 

Pleurogyne  rotata,  Grisebach  (Swerticae),  is  a very  bitter  plant  of  Japan  and  Western 
North  America,  with  linear-lanceolate  leaves  and  pale-pinkish  flowers,  having  the  throat  of  the 
corolla  bearded  and  the  sessile  stigmas  prolonged  on  the  valves  of  the  ovary. 

Action  and  Uses. — American  centaury  is  a simple  bitter,  without  special  virtues, 
Its  cold  infusion  is  useful  in  debilitated  states  of  the  stomach,  and  its  hot  infusions  as  a 
diaphoretic  in  muscular  rheumatism , sore  throat , and  febrile  attacks  generally.  The 
infusion  may  be  made  with  Gm.  32  to  Gm.  500  fan  ounce  of  the  plant  to  a pint)  of  boil- 
ing water,  and  given  hot  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  124-190  (f^iv-vj),  or  cold  in  the  dose  of 
Gm.  64  (f^ij). 

SABINA,  U.  S. — Savin  (Savine). 

Sabin  se,  racumina,  Br. ; Summitates  ( Ilerba ) sabinse , P.  G. — Savin-tops,  E.  ; Sabine,  Fr. 
Cod. ; Sadebaumspitzen,  Sevenkraut,  G.  ; Sabina,  Sp. 

The  tops  of  Juniperus  Sabina,  Linnt,  s.  Sabina  officinalis,  Garcke.  Bentley  and  Tri- 
men, Med.  Plants,  254. 


1392 


SABINA. 


Nat.  Ord. — Coniferae. 

Origin. — Savin  is  a small  evergreen  procumbent  or  erect  shrub  which  grows  on 
rocky  banks  from  Maine  to  Wisconsin,  near  the  Great  Lakes  and  farther  northward.  It 
is  distributed  throughout  a great  portion  of 'Europe  and  eastward 
to  the  Caspian  Sea  and  Southern  Siberia.  Besides  in  size,  it  is 
distinguished  from  red  cedar,  which  it  closely  resembles,  by  the 
larger  fruit,  which  is  nodding  on  the  recurved  peduncle-like 
branchlet.  The  young  branchlets  are  collected  for  medicinal 
use. 

Description. — As  met  with  in  commerce,  savin  is  in  small 
and  thin  subquadrangular  pieces,  consisting  of  slender  twigs, 
which  are  densely  covered  with  minute,  scale-like,  imbricate 
leaves,  arranged  alternately  in  opposite  pairs.  The  leaves  are 
rhomboid-lanceolate,  rather  obtuse,  and  closely  appressed,  and  on 
the  back  have  a shallow  groove  containing  a gland,  which  is 
mostly  oblong  in  shape.  Older  leaves  are  more  pointed  and  more 
or  less  spreading.  Savin  has  a persistent  somewhat  terebinthi- 
nate  odor,  which  is  stronger  after  bruising  the  branchlets  ; the 
taste  is  nauseous,  resinous,  and  bitter.  The  drug  is  frequently 
mixed  with  some  fruits  which  are  about  5 Mm.  (1  inch)  in 
diameter,  globular,  but  more  or  less  shrivelled,  blackish-blue  or  brownish,  contain  usually 
two  seeds,  and  have  a similar  but  stronger  odor  and  taste  than  the  branchlets. 

Constituents. — Gardes  (1837)  found  savin  to  contain  tannin,  resin,  volatile  oil 
(page  1150),  extractive,  chlorophyll,  etc.  The  fresh  fruit  yields  10  per  cent,  of  volatile 
oil. 

Allied  Plants. — Juniperus  virginiana,  Linne.  Red  cedar,  E. ; Cedre  de  Yirginie,  Fr.  ; 
Virginische  Ceder,  Rothe  Ceder,  G. — The  branchlets  resemble  savine,  are  about  25  Mm.  (1 
inch)  long,  and  of  a quadrangular  appearance  from  their  four  row's  of  scale-like  leaves,  which 
are  ovate-lanceolate,  obtuse,  or  rather  acute,  appressed,  and  imbricated.  They  have  a longi- 
tudinal furrow  on  the  back,  which  gradually  deepens  toward  the  base,  where  there  is  contained 
a circular  or  oblong  gland.  They  have  a not  unpleasantly  terebinthinate  odor  and  an  aromatic, 
bitterish,  and  somewhat  acrid  taste.  Red  cedar  was  analyzed  by  W.  J.  Jenks  (1842),  who  found 
it  to  contain  volatile  oil,  resin,  fat,  tannin,  and  other  common  constituents  of  plants.  Oil  of 
red  cedar , distilled  from  the  wood,  was  examined  by  Walter  (1842).  On  exposing  it  to  cold, 
expressing  the  coagulated  mass,  and  recrystallizing  the  solid  portion  from  alcohol,  cedrene  cam- 
phor, C15H260  (Gerhardt),  was  obtained,  which  has  an  aromatic  odor  and  a slight  taste.  The 
liquid  portion,  after  rectification  and  distillation  over  potassium,  is  cedrene , C15H2i  (Gerhardt), 
which  is  colorless,  of  specific  gravity  0.98,  boils  at  237°  C.  (458.6°  F.),  and  has  an  aromatic  odor 
differing  from  that  of  the  camphor,  and  an  aromatic  afterward  pepper-like  taste. 

Medical  History. — In  ancient  times  the  virtues  of  savin  were  clearly  recognized. 
Its  stimulant  action  caused  it  to  be  employed  for  the  treatment  of  ulcers  and  carbuncles 
and  as  a remedy  for  alopecia ; it  was  also  used  with  honey  for  the  removal  of  freckles ; 
and  it  was  well  known  that,  internally,  it  was  apt  to  cause  bloody  urine,  and,  when  taken 
by  pregnant  females,  miscarriage. 

Action  and  Uses. — On  man  the  action  of  savin  itself  is  chiefly  illustrated  by  cases 
in  which  it  was  taken  for  the  purpose  of  producing  abortion.  Thus,  an  infusion  caused 
incessant  vomiting,  abortion,  excruciating  pain,  rupture  of  the  gall-bladder,  and  death. 
Many  cases  are  recorded  of  the  fatal  consequences  of  its  use  in  large  doses. 

Savin  has  been  used  with  unquestionable  advantage  in  cases  of  amenorrhcea.  and  dys- 
menorrhoea  depending  on  a want  of  vigor  in  the  uterine  apparatus,  and  also  for  the  cure 
of  menorrhagia,  due  to  a like  condition.  Several  trustworthy  physicians  declare  that  in 
such  cases  of  uterine  haemorrhage  1 grain  of  powdered  savin,  repeated  three  times  a day 
and  continued  for  weeks  together,  will  overcome  the  tendency  to  the  uterine  loss.  Under 
like  conditions  sterility  and  chlorosis  have  been  cured  by  this  medicine.  For  amenorrhoea 
it  has  been  recommended  to  administer  a pill  composed  of  rue,  savin,  and  ergot,  of  each 
1 grain,  and  aloes  4 grain,  three  times  a day  at  first,  and  gradually  increasing  the  dose 
(Courty).  Savin  had  once  a repute,  not  entirely  undeserved,  for  its  virtues  in  chronic 
gout  and  rheumatism , for  which  it  was  employed  in  infusion  or  in  decoction,  both  inter- 
nally and  in  a lotion  for  the  affected  joints.  Sayin  has  no  doubt  been  found  efficient  as 
a vermifuge , but  other  anthelmintics  are  to  be  preferred  as  being  less  dangerous.  In 
pregnancy,  and  wherever  there  is  a tendency  to  congestion  in  any  important  organ,  savin 
is  contraindicated.  Savin,  in  cerate,  is  used  to  excite  or  to  prolong  the  secretion  pro- 
duced by  blisters.  Its  powder,  slightly  moistened,  is  one  of  the  most  efficient  remedies 


Fig.  248. 


Branch  of  Savin. 


SACCHARINUM. 


1393 


for  venereal  warts.  It  may  be  applied  alone  or  mixed  with  burnt  alum  or  with  subacetate 
of  copper.  It  is  also  used,  either  in  powder  or  in  solution,  to  wither  polypi,  and  may  be 
applied  with  advantage  to  condylomata,  and,  as  in  ancient  times,  to  stimulate  indolent 
and  unhealthy  ulcers. 

Fresh  is  much  more  active  than  dried  savin.  It  may  be  administered  in  powder  in  the 
dose  of  Gm.  0.30-0.40  (gr.  v-vj),  repeated  several  times  a day.  It  is  most  conveniently 
given  in  syrup  or  honey. 


SACCHARINUM.— Saccharin. 

Glusidum , Br.  Add. — Gluside , Glucusimide,  Anhydro-orthosulphamine  benzoic  acid , Ben- 
zoic sulphinide , Benzoyl-sulphonic-imide. 

Formula  C6H4C0S02NH.  Molecular  weight  168.65. 

Preparation. — Toluene  is  treated  with  concentrated  sulphuric  acid  at  100°  C. 
(212°  F.),  whereby  toluene  sulphonic  acids  (ortho-  and  para-)  are  formed,  which  are  first 
converted  into  calcium  salts,  and  then,  by  means  of  sodium  carbonate,  into  sodium  salts. 
From  these  a mixture  of  ortho-  and  para-toluenesulphochlorides  is  obtained  by  action  of 
phosphorus  pentachloride ; upon  strongly  cooling  the  mixture  the  para-  modification  crys- 
tallizes out,  and  is  thus  separated.  Orthotoluene-sulphamide  is  formed  from  the  other 
isomeric  chloride  by  means  of  dry  ammonia  gas.  This  sulphamide  is  next  oxidized  with 
potassium  permanganate,  converting  it  into  potassium  orthosulphaminebenzoate,  the 
solution  of  which  is  freed  from  precipitated  manganese  dioxide  and  decomposed  by 
means  of  an  acid  ; instead  of  separating  as  free  orthosulphamine-benzoic  acid,  the  latter 
splits  up  into  its  anhydride  and  water.  It  is  this  orthosulphamine-benzoic  anhydride 
which  is  known  as  saccharin  or  gluside. 

Properties  and  Tests. — Saccharin  or  gluside  occurs  as  a light,  minutely  crystal- 
line powder,  having  an  intensely  sweet  taste  in  dilute  solution.  When  heated  it  fuses, 
and  then  sublimes  with  partial  decomposition.  It  is  slightly  soluble  in  cold  water  (1  : 400) 
at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  forming  a feebly  acid  solution ; it  is  more  soluble  in  boiling  water, 
alcohol  (1 : 30),  or  glycerin,  and  freely  soluble  in  ether,  dilute  ammonia,  or  solution  of 
sodium  bicarbonate,  with  evolution  of  carbon  dioxide.  u The  latter  solution,  when 
warmed  and  made  neutral  and  evaporated  to  dryness,  yields  soluble  gluside  or  saccharin, 
100  parts  of  gluside  yielding  nearly  113  parts  of  neutral  soluble  gluside.  Neither  gluside 
nor  the  soluble  gluside  is  blackened  by  strong  sulphuric  acid,  even  when  the  mixture  is 
warmed  for  a short  time.” — Br.  Add.  Commercial  saccharin  seems  to  be  far  from  a pure 
or  simple  substance ; as  much  as  50  per  cent,  of  impurities  have  been  discovered,  con- 
sisting of  the  parasulphamine-benzoic  acid  and  of  acid  potassium  orthosulphobenzoate 
(Remsen  ; Burton ; Dohme).  The  substance  may  readily  be  tested  by  treating  with 
ether,  which  dissolves  out  the  benzoic  sulphinide  and  leaves  undissolved  all  foreign  matter. 

Allied  Compounds. — Dulcin,  Sucrol,  Paraphenetol  carbamide,  C6H4.OC2H5NH.CONII2. — 
Another  synthetic  sweet  compound  obtained  when  ammonia  is  allowed  to  act  on  a body  pro- 
duced by  the  reaction  between  1 molecule  of  carbonyl  chloride  in  benzene  or  toluene  solution  and 
2 molecules  of  paraphenetidin.  Dulcin  occurs  in  colorless  needles,  melting  at  160°  C.  (320°  F.), 
and  is  said  to  be  free  from  any  injurious  action  upon  the  human  organism. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — In  pharmacy  saccharin  has  been  employed  to  disguise 
the  bitter  taste  of  alkaloids  and  bitter  principles  in  various  elixirs,  etc. 

Liquor  saccharini,  N.  F.,  Solution  of  saccharin.  Dissolve  512  grains  of  saccharin  and 
240  grains  of  sodium  bicarbonate  in  10  fluidounces  of  water;  filter  the  solution,  add  4 
fluidounces  of  alcohol,  and  pass  enough  water  through  the  filter  to  make  16  fluidounces. 
Each  fluidrachm  represents  4 grains  of  saccharin. 

Action  and  Uses. — Saccharin  is  excreted  rapidly,  unchanged,  and  almost  entirely 
with  the  urine,  and  does  not  affect  the  nutrition  or  the  functions  of  respiration,  circula- 
tion, and  urination,  nor  does  it  appear  in  any  of  the  secretions  proper.  It  may,  how- 
ever, disorder  the  gastric  digestion.  Paul  found  a solution  of  it,  1 : 500,  retarded  the 
action  of  pepsin  on  egg-albumen  and  of  diastase  upon  starch.  This  direct  interference  with 
the  assimilation  of  food  caused  the  French  government  to  prohibit  its  use  as  a dietetic 
substitute  for  sugar.  The  soda  compound  of  saccharin  does  not  exert  this  influence,  or 
does  so  very  slightly  ; nor  does  saccharin  itself  when  its  dose  is  kept  within  proper 
bounds.  Pittschek  aud  Zerner  ( Centralbl.  f Ther.,  vii.  231)  used  the  soda  compound  for 
several  weeks  for  themselves  and  for  their  patients  as  a sweetener  for  both  food  and 
drink,  without  it  in  the  least  disturbing  digestion.  It  appears  to  arrest  the  development 
of  the  microbes  of  putrefaction  and  suppuration  and  those  habitually  found  in  the 
88 


1394 


SACCHARUM. 


mouth.  For  this  purpose  the  pure  is  superior  to  the  combined  acid ; of  it,  practically, 
a mixture  of  2 parts  of  sodium  bicarbonate  and  3 parts  of  saccharin  is  an  efficient  anti- 
septic. Aducco  and  Masso  found  its  control  of  acetous  and  ammoniacal  fermentation  less 
perfect  than  that  of  salicylic,  and  about  the  same  as  that  of  boric,  acid  ( Therap . Gaz ., 
xi.  55).  Saccharin  may  be  useful  wherever  cane-  or  milk-sugar  is  objectionable,  as  in 
flatulent  dyspepsia , in  obesity , and  in  saccharine  diabetes.  In  the  last  it  is  a convenient 
substitute  for  sugar.  Its  sweetening  power  is  said  to  be  nearly  three  hundred  times 
greater  than  that  of  cane-sugar,  and  hence  it  should  be  prescribed  in  the  smallest  doses 
as  a condiment  that  will  fulfil  its  purpose  as  a sweetener,  not  only  lest  it  should  impair 
digestion,  but  also  because  it  might  beget  aversion.  This  quality  has  been  utilized  to 
conceal  the  taste  of  many  medicines,  including  quinine,  tincture  of  chloride  of  iron, 
antipyrine,  guaiacum,  cod-liver  oil,  copaiba,  etc.  From  J a grain  to  1 J grains  will  sweeten 
a cup  of  tea  or  coffee.  In  fevers  it  does  not  control,  nor,  on  the  other  hand,  does  it 
aggravate,  any  symptom.  It  does  not  mitigate  articular  rheumatism.  Fourrier  consid- 
ered an  alcoholic  solution  of  it  (1 : 50)  a very  useful  application  to  thrush  following  measles 
( Annuaire  de  Therap .,  1889,  p.  163).  The  alcohol  alone  might  have  answered  as  well. 
Some  have  denied  its  utility  in  cases  of  disease  of  the  urinary  organs  with  alkaline  or 
purulent  urine,  but  the  direct  testimony  in  its  favor  appears  conclusive.  Among  others 
may  be  cited  that  of  Little  ( Dublin  Jour.  Med.  Sci.,  June,  1888,  p.  493),  and  of  A.  H. 
Smith  {Med.  Record , xxxvi.  541),  who  both  employed  it  in  cases  of  phosphatic  and  ammo- 
niacal urine  connected  with  prostatic  disease,  paralysis  of  the  bladder,  etc.  In  cases  of  dila- 
tation of  the  stomach  with  fermentation  of  the  gastric  contents  it  has  been  found  useful, 
especially  when  associated  with  washing  out  of  the  organ.  It  has  been  used  advantageously 
in  similar  disorders  of  the  intestines , and  has  also  been  applied  to  purulent  disease  of  the 
middle  ear.  The  dose  of  saccharin  is  Gm.  0.06-0.20  (gr.  j-iij).  It  may  be  given  in 
wafers  or  capsules  and  repeated  from  three  to  six  times  a day.  But  it  is  preferably 
associated  with  sodium  bicarbonate;  e.  g.  R.  Saccharin,  gr.  45;  Dry  sodium  bicar- 
bonate, gr.  xxx  ; Mannite,  giiss. — S.  Make  100  pastilles,  of  which  1 will  sweeten  a cup  of 
coffee.  R.  Glycerin  1 lb.;  Saccharin  ^j.  S.  Heat  to  solution.  2 teaspoonfuls  will 
sweeten  fgviij  of  lemonade  or  ^iij  of  cranberries  ( Med . News , lii.  251).  Dr.  McNaughton 
Jones  has  recommended  in  diabetes  a biscuit  containing  Gm.  11.5  (giij)  of  gluten  flour. 
Gm.  2.75  (45  gr.)  of  butter,  Gm.  8.5  (gij)  of  eggs,  and  Gm.  0.01625  (21  gr.)  of 
saccharin. 

SACCHARUM,  U.  S.,  jP.  G.— Sugar. 

Saccharum  purificatum,  Br. — Refined  sugar , Cane-sugar , E. ; Sucre , Sucre  de  canne, 
Fr. ; Zucker,  Rohrzucker , G. ; Azucar,  Azucar  de  carta,  Sp. 

The  refined  sugar  obtained  from  Saccharum  officinarum,  Linne , and  from  various  species 
or  varieties  of  Sorghum  (nat.  ord.  Gramineae) ; also  from  one  or  more  varieties  of  Beta 
vulgaris,  Linne  (nat.  ord.  Chenopodiaceae). 

Formula  C^^aOn-  Molecular  weight  341.2. 

Origin. — The  sugar-cane  appears  to  have  been  indigenous  to  India  and  other  parts 
of  Southern  and  Eastern  Asia,  and  has  been  cultivated  from  time  immemorial.  At  pres- 
ent it  is  not  known  in  the  wild  state,  but  it  is  raised  in  most  tropical  and  subtropical 
countries,  and  in  many  of  them  for  the  production  of  sugar.  It  is  a perennial,  and  pro- 
duces a stem  which  is  from  2.4— 3.6  M.  (8  to  12  feet)  high,  2—5  Cm.  (1  to  2 inches)  thick, 
cylindrical,  jointed,  and,  with  the  exception  of  the  flowering  tops,  which  are  hollow,  filled 
with  a juicy  pith.  The  leaves  are  1.2-1. 5 M.  (4  to  5 feet)  long,  5 Cm.  (2  inches)  wide, 
and  linear ; and  the  flowering  panicles  large,  pyramidal,  and  with  spreading  branches. 
Several  varieties  are  known,  differing  chiefly  in  the  color  and  hairiness  of  the  stem, 
Saccharum  chinense,  Roxburgh , having  a slender  erect  panicle,  is  probably  a distinct 
species,  and  the  one  principally  cultivated  in  China. 

Cane-sugar  is  present  in  a large  number  of  grasses,  particularly  in  those  having  a 
rather  thick  stem,  such  as  Sorghum  saccharatum,  Persoon , s.  Holcus  saccharatus,  Linne , 
Zea  Mays,  Linne , and  others.  From  the  thorough  researches  of  H.  Leplay,  published  in 
1882,  it  appears  that  in  maize  the  sugar  is  produced  in  the  leaves  and  transferred  to  the 
stem,  where  it  gradually  accumulates,  and  when  the  fruit  begins  to  develop  it  is  conveyed 
to  the  grain,  where  it  is  converted  into  starch,  the  sugar  at  the  same  time  disappearing 
from  the  leaves  and  diminishing  very  materially  in  the  stem.  It  is  also  present  in  the 
juice  of  different  species  of  maple,  birch,  palm,  and  other  trees,  and  in  many  fleshy  roots, 
prominent  among  which  is  a cultivated  variety  of  Beta  vulgaris,  Linne , or  sugar-beet , 
which  is  largely  employed  in  Europe  in  preparing  sugar. 


RACCHARUM. 


1395 


Preparation. — Recently-collected  sugar-cane  yields  by  crushing  and  expressing 
about  80  per  cent,  of  juice,  which  contains  from  78  to  84  per  cent,  of  water,  16  to  21 
per  cent,  of  sugar,  0.3  to  0.4  per  cent,  of  mucilaginous,  resinous,  fatty,  and  albuminous 
matters,  and  nearly  the  same  amount  of  salts.  The  juice  is  a grayish,  turbid,  sweet  liquid, 
which  is  clarified  by  heating,  a little  lime  being  at  the  same  time  added  for  the  purpose 
of  neutralizing  free  acid ; it  is  then  concentrated  by  rapid  evaporation  in  open  pans, 
transferred  to  coolers,  where  it  is  frequently  stirred,  and  afterward  into  casks  perforated 
at  the  bottom  and  arranged  in  such  a manner  that  the  liquid  portion  may  drain  olf  and 
be  collected  in  suitable  tanks.  The  granular  solid  product  thus  obtained  constitutes  the 
raw  or  muscovado  sugar  of  commerce ; the  liquid  portion  is  known  as  treacle  or  molasses. 
Raw  sugar  is  refined  by  dissolving  it  in  water,  the  solution  is  heated  with  blood,  the 
impurities  are  skimmed  off,  and  the  liquid  is  filtered  through  recently-burned  granular 
animal  charcoal.  The  clear  and  colorless  filtrate  is  concentrated  in  a vacuum-pan,  and 
when  of  sufficient  density  run  off1  into  conical  moulds,  the  narrow  orifice  of  which  is  closed 
by  a plug.  It  solidifies  as  a dense  crystalline  mass,  which  is  drained  by  the  removal  of 
the  plug,  and  freed  from  the  remaining  colored  mother-liquor  by  percolating  through  it 
a concentrated  solution  of  pure  sugar,  after  which  it  is  dried  and  sent  into  commerce  as 
refined  or  loaf  sugar.  By  concentrating  the  mother-liquors  they  are  made  to  yield  more 
sugar  of  an  inferior  grade,  until  finally  a thick  syrupy  liquid  is  obtained,  which  refuses 
to  crystallize,  and  is  known  as  sugar-house,  molasses , and  in  England  as  treacle. 

The  method  of  obtaining  sugar  from  the  sugar-beet  is  very  similar  to  that  described, 
but  is  attended  with  greater  difficulties,  owing  to  the  presence  of  larger  quantities  of 
proteids  and  other  foreign  constituents.  Sugar-beets  contain  about  12  per  cent,  and 
yield  about  9 per  cent,  of  cane-sugar. 

Properties. — Refined  sugar  is  seen  in  commerce  broken  into  small  pieces  or  lumps, 
which  are  hard  and  have  a granular  crystalline  texture  and  a pure  white  color.  Some- 
what inferior  kinds  of  sugar  are  softer,  and  those  having  a yellowish  tint  are  often  arti- 
ficially improved  in  appearance  by  adding,  while  crystallizing,  a minute  quantity  of  blue 
pigment,  like  ultramarine,  with  the  view  of  neutralizing  the  objectionable  tint  and  mak- 
ing the  sugar  appear  whiter ; such  sugar  will  yield  a yellowish  solution  with  water,  and 
on  standing  will  gradually  separate  the  pigment.  Perfectly  white  sugar,  known  in  com- 
merce as  double  refined , is  the  only  kind  that  should  be  used  in  pharmaceutical  prepara- 
tions. Sugar  may  be  obtained  in  large  transparent  rhombic  prisms,  known  as  rock  candy , 
saccharum  candidum , which  does  not  differ  from  lump  sugar  except  that  this  is  in  crys- 
talline masses  from  disturbed  crystallization.  Sugar  has  the  specific  gravity  1.58  (Kopp), 
is  permanent  in  the  air,  neutral,  without  odor,  has  a very  sweet  taste,  and  dissolves  at 
ordinary  temperatures  in  one-half  its  weight  of  water,  yielding  a dense,  sweet,  and  color- 
less liquid  known  as  syrup ; saturated  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  such  a solution  contains  66 
per  cent,  of  sugar,  and  this  has  the  density  1.345082  (Michel  and  Kraft).  At  the  boil- 
ing-point sugar  dissolves  in  water  almost  in  all  proportions  (in  0.2  parts,  U.  S. ; 0.212 
parts,  Flourens).  It  requires  for  solution  about  80  parts  of  boiling  absolute  alcohol,  28 
parts  of  boiling  official  alcohol,  and  about  4 parts  of  boiling  alcohol  spec.  grav.  .830, 
these  solutions  depositing  most  of  the  sugar  on  cooling.  The  solubility  is  greater  in 
weak  alcohol,  both  cold  and  hot.  At  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  1 part  of  sugar  dissolves  in  2 parts  of 
50  per  cent,  alcohol,  in  7.7  parts  of  75  per  cent,  alcohol,  in  14.7  parts  of  80  per  cent, 
alcohol,  in  31.6  parts  of  85  per  cent,  alcohol,  in  175  parts  of  92  per  cent,  alcohol,  and  in 
228  parts  of  methylic  alcohol  of  the  same  strength  (Casamajor).  Sugar  dissolves  also  in 
glycerin,  the  solubility  being  increased  on  dilution  with  water,  but  it  is  insoluble  in  ether, 
chloroform,  carbon  disulphide,  and  in  hydrocarbons.  It  combines  with  sodium  chloride, 
yielding  deliquescent  crystals  which  contain  14.9  per  cent,  of  that  salt.  Definite  com- 
pounds have  likewise  been  obtained  with  several  other  salts  and  with  alkalies  and  alka- 
line earths.  (See  Syrupus  Calcis.)  When  triturated  in  the  dark  it  becomes  luminous. 
Its  solution  deviates  polarized  light  to  the  right — a behavior  which  is  of  great  practical 
importance  for  the  estimation  of  sugar  in  aqueous  liquids  and  for  distinguishing  different 
kinds  of  sugar,  which  have  a different  rotary  power. 

When  sugar  is  heated  to  160°  C.  (320°  F.)  it  melts  without  losing  in  weight,  and  con- 
geals on  cooling  to  a transparent  amorphous  yellowish  mass  known  as  barley  sugar,  sac- 
charum hordeatum , which  becomes  gradually  opaque  on  the  surface  from  the  formation  of 
minute  crystals.  If  sugar  is  kept  in  the  melted  state  between  160°  and  170°  C.  (320° 
and  338°  F.)  for  a short  time,  it  is  converted  into  a deliquescent  mixture  of  glucose  and 
levulosan  ; C12H22On  yields  C6H1206  -j-  C6HI0O5 ; the  latter  is  not  fermentable  until  after  it 
has  been  boiled  with  water  or  dilute  acids.  When  heated  to  between  180°  and  200°  C. 


1396 


SACCHARUM. 


(356°  and  392°  F.)  sugar  turns  brown,  evolves  a peculiar  odor,  and  is  converted  into 
caramel , C12H1809,  parting  at  the  same  time  with  2H20 ; the  pure  product  of  this  compo- 
sition, caramelan,  was  obtained  colorless  by  Gelis  (1862).  Caramel  may  be  prepared  in 
the  same  manner  from  inferior  qualities  of  sugar,  from  molasses,  and  from  glucose,  and 
the  conversion  is  hastened  in  the  presence  of  small  quanties  of  alkalies ; the  addition  of 
a little  ammonium  carbonate,  which  is  again  volatilized  by  the  heat,  is  of  service,  for  the 
reason  stated.  Subjected  to  dry  distillation,  sugar  yields  aldehyde  acetone,  acetic  acid,  tarry 
products,  and  carbon  dioxide,  carbonic  oxide,  and  marsh  gas.  According  to  Lassaigne, 
iodine  heated  with  a solution  of  sugar  is  converted  into  hydriodic  acid.  Under  the  influ- 
ence of  ferments,  as  well  as  of  dilute  acids,  cane-sugar  is  converted  into  invert-sugar , which 
is  a mixture  of  dextrose  or  grape-sugar  and  levulose  or  fruit-sugar,  and  is  directly  ferment- 
able. This  inversion  of  sugar  takes  place  slowly  on  boiling  with  water,  but  cold  aqueous 
solutions  keep  unaltered  for  a long  time,  provided  that  the  access  of  ferments  suspended 
in  the  air  be  prevented.  Under  the  same  condition,  according  to  the  investigations  of 
Kreusler,  Lemoine,  and  others,  light  does  not  exert  the  inverting  effect  reported  by 
Raoul  (1871).  Nitric  acid  inverts  cane-sugar  readily,  and  when  heated  with  it  produces 
saccharic,  racemic,  tartaric,  and  oxalic  acids. 

Tests. — 'The  purity  of  cane-sugar  is  ascertained  by  the  physical  properties  described 
above,  and  by  its  complete  solubility  in  water  and  alcohol.  The  absence  of  glucose  or  of 
a similar  sugar  is  ascertained  by  some  of  the  reactions  given  below.  “ Aqueous  and  alco- 
holic solutions  of  sugar  should  have  no  effect  on  litmus-paper.  The  solution  in  20  parts 
of  distilled  water  should  be  scarcely  rendered  turbid  by  silver  nitrate  or  barium  nitrate 
(chloride  and  sulphate).” — P.  G.  “ Both  the  aqueous  and  the  alcoholic  solution  of  sugar 
should  be  clear  and  transparent.  When  kept  in  large,  well-closed,  and  completely  filled 
bottles,  they  should  not  deposit  a sediment  on  prolonged  standing  (absence  of  insoluble 
salts,  ultramarine,  Prussian  blue,  etc.).  If  1 Gm.  of  sugar  be  dissolved  in  10  Cc.  of  boil- 
ing water,  the  solution  mixed  with  4 or  5 drops  of  silver  nitrate  test-solution,  then  about 
2 Cc.  of  ammonia-water  added,  and  the  liquid  quickly  brought  to  a boil,  not  more  than  a 
slight  coloration,  but  no  black  precipitate,  should  appear  in  the  liquid  after  standing  at 
rest  for  five  minutes  (absence  of  grape-sugar  and  of  more  than  a slight  amount  of 
inverted  sugar).” — U.  S. 

Other  Sugars. — Glucose,  Grape-Sugar,  Dextrose,  or  Starch-Sugar,  C6H1206;  molecular 
weight  179.58.  Hydrated,  C6II1206.II20;  mol.  weight  197.54.  Carbohydrates  having  a sweet  taste 
are  frequently  met  with  in  plants  and  among  the  products  of  decomposition  of  those  organic  com- 
pounds forming  the  large  class  of  glucosides.  The  sugar  yielded  by  the  latter  is  frequently, 
though  not  always,  identical  with  the  sugar  met  with  in  grapes  and  other  fruits  and  with  that 
produced  from  starch.  This  is  now  very  largely  made  for  uses  in  the  arts  by  boiling  100  parts 
of  starch,  400  parts  of  water,  and  4 or  5 parts  of  sulphuric  acid  until  starch  can  no  longer  be 
detected  in  the  liquid,  the  transformation  being  hastened  by  heating  under  pressure ; the  free 
acid  is  then  neutralized  with  chalk,  the  filtrate  clarified  and  decolorized,  if  necessary,  by  treating 
it  with  clay  and  animal  charcoal,  and,  finally,  concentrated,  preferably  in  a vacuum-pan.  The 
grape-sugar  or  glucose  of  commerce  is  prepared  in  this  manner.  Liquid  glucose  contains  from 
34  to  43  per  cent,  of  dextrose,  from  0 to  19  per  cent,  of  maltose,  from  30  to  45  per  cent,  of  dex- 
trin, and  from  14  to  23  per  cent,  of  wrater.  Solid  grape-sugar  is  usually  in  a white  or  whitish, 
irregularly  granular  powder  or  mass ; from  alcohol  it  may  be  obtained  in  compact,  nodular 
groups  of  needles.  A.  Behr  (1882)  has  shown  that  the  cooling  concentrated  solution  of  glucose, 
on  the  addition  of  crystals  or  powdered  crystals  of  that  compound,  will  give  a large  crop  of 
prisms  of  anhydrous  glucose.  It  rotates  polarized  light  to  the  right,  though  less  than  cane-sugar, 
reduces  the  so-called  noble  metals,  and  acquires  a dark  color  when  heated  with  solutions  of 
alkalies.  It  is  less  sweet  than  cane-sugar,  is  directly  fermentable,  undergoes  by  heat  alterations 
analogous  to  those  of  cane-sugaV,  is  insoluble  in  ether,  dissolves  in  about  50  parts  of  alcohol, 
and  requires  little  more  than  1 part  of  cold  water  for  solution  ; but  after  it  has  been  rendered 
amorphous  by  heat  it  dissolves  in  water  in  nearly  all  proportions.  Nitric  acid  oxidizes  it  to 
saccharic,  tartaric,  racemic,  and  oxalic  acids.  Saccharic  acid , H2C6H808,  is  amorphous,  deliques- 
cent, freely  soluble  in  water  and  alcohol,  and  yields  mostly  crystallizable  salts. 

Levulose,  Chylariose,  or  Fruit-Sugar,  C6II1206 ; mol.  weight  179.58.  It  frequently  accom- 
panies grape-sugar  in  fruits,  also  in  honey  ; in  some  plants  it  is  associated  with  cane-sugar.  It 
is  usually  a colorless,  uncrystallizable  syrup,  has  nearly  the  same  sweetness  as  cane-sugar,  and 
turns  the  plane  of  polarized  light  to  the  left.  It  may  be  obtained  in  fine  silky  needles  which 
are  insoluble  in  absolute  alcohol  and  ether,  but  dissolve  readily  in  aqueous  liquids.  Levulose 
is  produced  from  inulin  by  treatment  with  dilute  acids ; with  nascent  hydrogen  it  yields  mannit. 
A mong  the  products  of  oxidation  by  nitric  acid  are  succinic,  acetic,  and  oxalic  acids. . 

Inosit,  Piiaseo-mannit,  C6II1206.2H20  •,  mol.  weight  215.50.  It  is  present  in  the  juice  of  some 
meats,  in  the  green  fruit  of  many  Leguminosae,  in  asparagus,  and  in  other  plants.  It  is  very 
sweet,  crystallizes  readily  fron  water  and  alcohol,  is  insoluble  in  ether,  does  not  undergo  alco- 
holic fermentation,  and  yields  with  nitric  acid  explosive  compounds  and  oxalic  acid. 


SACCHARUM. 


1397 


Sugar  Tests. — Moore's  Test.  A solution  of  cane-sugar,  heated  with  3 or  4 per  cent,  of  potassa 
for  a minute  or  two,  remains  colorless ; glucose  and  milk-sugar  are  colored  brown. 

Trommer's  Test.  A solution  of  cane-sugar,  mixed  with  a little  copper  sulphate  and  an  excess 
of  potassa  or  soda,  retains  its  blue  color  on  boiling,  but  turns  bright-red  in  the  presence  of 
glucose  or  milk-sugar,  red  cuprous  oxide  being  deposited.  Glucose  and  most  allied  sugars  effect 
the  same  reduction,  though  more  slowly,  in  the  cold. 

Fehling's  test  is  a modification  of  the  preceding,  and  may  be  used  for  the  quantitative  deter- 
mination of  glucose.  The  test  liquid  is  prepared  by  dissolving  34.64  Gm.  of  crystallized  sulphate 
of  copper  in  water,  adding  200  Gm.  of  Rochelle  salt,  and  600  or  700  Gm.  of  soda  solution  spec, 
grav.  1.20,  and  diluting  the  whole  to  1 liter  (Schorlemmer).  10  Cc.  of  this  solution  are  reduced 
by  0.5  Gm.  of  grape-sugar. — Boedecker  introduced  Rochelle  salt  in  place  of  potassium  tartrate, 
which  was  used  by  Fehling.  The  test  is  usually  made  with  a solution  containing  about  1 per 
cent,  of  glucose ; weaker  solutions  reduce  a somewhat  smaller  amount  of  the  test  liquid. 

Pettenkofer  s Test.  Bile  in  the  presence  of  sugar  (of  other  carbohydrates  and  of  proteids) 
acquires  a blood-red  color  with  concentrated  sulphuric  or  phosphoric  acid. 

Boettger's  Test.  A little  bismuth  subnitrate  boiled  with  solution  of  glucose,  rendered 
alkaline  by  sodium  carbonate,  acquires  a gray  or  black  color ; pure  cane-sugar  produces  no 
alteration. 

O.  Schmidt's  Test.  Lead  acetate,  added  to  a saccharine  liquid,  is  precipitated  white  by  excess 
of  ammonia ; on  heating  the  mixture  it  remains  unchanged  if  cane-sugar  or  milk-sugar  is  present, 
but  turns  orange-red  with  glucose. 

Sachsse's  Test.  18  Gm.  mercuric  iodide,  25  Gm.  potassium  iodide,  and  80  Gm.  caustic  potassa 
are  dissolved  in  distilled  water  sufficient  to  make  1 liter.  40  Cc.  of  this  solution  heated  to  boiling 
are  decomposed  by  1.1342  Gm.  of  glucose,  so  that  a drop  of  liquid  is  not  rendered  black  by 
ammonium  sulphydrate, 

Naumentfs  Test.  On  heating  a solution  of  glucose  with  a few  drops  of  solution  of  silver 
nitrate  the  liquid  acquires  a brown  color. 

Tollen's  Test.  An  ammoniacal  solution  of  silver  nitrate  containing  caustic  soda  is  reduced  by 
glucose,  with  the  production  of  a metallic  mirror. 

Gaicalowski' s Test.  A solution  of  sugar  heated  with  neutral  ammonium  molybdate  to  100°  C. 
(212°  F.)  becomes  blue  in  the  presence  of  glucose. 

Many  other  tests  have  been  proposed ; the  above  are  quite  available  and  give  good  results. 
Tannin  and  similar  compounds  which  are  likely  to  interfere  are  previously  removed,  either  by 
solvents  or  precipitants. 

Uses. — Sugar  is  of  comparatively  little  value  for  its  independent  effects,  but  few  sub- 
stances are  more  useful  as  an  associate  of  other  medicines,  whether  to  preserve  them  from 
oxidation  and  decomposition,  to  conceal  or  improve  their  taste,  or  to  give  them  special 
pharmaceutical  forms. 

In  solution  sugar  is  almost  exclusively  lenitive,  but  in  powder  it  is  stimulant.  Finely 
powdered,  it  hastens  the  detachment  of  diphtherial  false  membranes  and  corrects  their  fetor. 
It  is  universally  employed  to  diminish  dryness  of  the  mouth  and  fauces,  to  allay  irritation, 
and  to  mitigate  cough  and  hoarseness.  Sugar  dissolved  in  water  is  said  to  have  a diuretic 
effect.  When  injected  into  the  veins  of  animals  it  is  said  to  be  powerfully  diuretic 
(Richet  and  M.  Martin,  Med.  Record , xxi.  394).  It  certainly,  when  moderately  used, 
promotes  digestion  and  allays  nervous  excitement.  For  these  purposes  sweetened  water 
(eau  sucree ) is  universally  employed  in  France  and  Southern  Europe.  Formerly  a strong 
solution  of  sugar  was  much  used  as  an  antidote  to  corrosive  poisons.  It  enters  into  all 
the  drinks,  mucilaginous,  farinaceous,  and  gelatinous,  employed  in  febrile  diseases. 
Finely-powdered  loaf-sugar  will  sometimes  relieve  the  hiccouglt  which  in  nursing  infants 
is  apt  to  arise  from  over-feeding.  Eaten  freely,  it  is  said  to  arrest  the  development  of 
alcoholic  intoxication , perhaps  by  retarding  gastric  absorption.  A strong  solution  of  sugar 
injected  into  the  rectum  has  been  used  successfully  to  destroy  ascarides  of  that  part.  In 
powder  it  is  very  efficient  as  a remedy  for  aphthae  of  the  mouth,  in  repressing  the 
exuberant  and  stimulating  the  indolent  granulations  of  ulcers , in  removing  opacities  of 
the  cornea , and  in  curing  granular  eyelids.  Sugar  has  been  claimed  by  Fischer  to  be  an 
efficient  antiseptic  dressing  for  wounds  ( Centralhl . f.  Ther .,  iii.  453;  Danhauser,  ibid., 
vii.  553).  Windelschmidt  states  that  for  small  wounds  sugar  is  equal  to  iodoform  as  a 
dressing  (Med.  News , xliii.  462).  In  chronic  laryngitis , when  inhaled  by  a sudden  aspiration 
from  a tube  extending  to  the  root  of  the  tongue,  it  may  be  used  with  advantage  alone  or 
mixed  with  other  powders.  In  the  same  manner  it  may  be  employed  as  a snuff’  in  chronic 
ozsena.  The  fumes  from  burnt  sugar  destroy  offensive  effluvia , and  are  conveniently  disen- 
engaged  by  sprinkling  sugar  upon  burning  coals  or  on  a hot  shovel.  The  culinary  and 
medicinal  uses  of  beet-sugar  are  the  same  as  those  of  cane-sugar,  but  in  sweetness  it  is 
inferior.  Glucose  is  more  or  less  diuretic  (Meilach,  Bull,  de  Therap .,  cxviii.  24). 


1398 


SACCHARUM  LACTIS.— SALEP. 


SACCHARUM  LACTIS,  U.  8.,  Br.,  F.  G.— Sugar  of  Milk. 

Lactose , Milk-sugar , E. ; Sucre  de  lait , Lactine , Fr.  ; Milchzucker , G. ; Aztfaar  de 
leche , Sp. 

A peculiar  crystalline  sugar  obtained  from  the  whey  of  cow’s  milk  by  evaporation  and 
purified  by  recrystallization.. 

Formula  CigH^On-HpO.  Molecular  weight  359.16. 

Preparation. — Milk-sugar  is  one  of  the  constituents  of  the  milk  of  mammals,  and 
appears  to  be  present  in  larger  proportion  in  the  milk  of  herbivorous  animals  than  in  that 
of  the  Carnivorae.  To  obtain  it  the  butter  and  casein  are  first  removed,  the  whey  (see  p. 
917)  is  concentrated,  and  the  liquid  permitted  to  crystallize  in  large  tanks,  the  crystal- 
lization being  facilitated  by  the  introduction  of  thin  sticks  or  cords ; the  impure  crys- 
tals are  once  or  twice  recrystallized  from  water.  It  is  chiefly  prepared  in  Switzerland. 
Milk-sugar  was  prepared  by  Bertolakti  in  1619,  and  was  introduced  into  medicine  by 
Testi  in  1698. 

Properties. — Sugar  of  milk  is  usually  met  with  in  commerce,  in  cylindrical  pieces 
composed  of  numerous  crystals  aggregated  around  an  axis  of  stick  or  cord.  It  crystal- 
lizes in  hard  white  or  translucent  four-sided  prisms,  is  permanent  in  the  air,  yields  a 
white  sandy  powder,  is  neutral,  inodorous,  and  has  a slightly  sweet  taste.  It  dissolves  in 
6 parts  (7  parts,  P.  G.)  of  water  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  and  in  1 part  (Guerin- Varry),  or, 
according  to  other  observers,  in  2 i parts,  of  boiling  water,  and  is  insoluble  in  ether, 
alcohol,  chloroform,  and  hydrocarbons.  Its  aqueous  solution  rotates  the  plane  of  polarized 
light  to  the  right,  is  rendered  yellow  or  brown  on  being  heated  with  solutions  of  alkalies 
or  alkali  carbonates,  reduces  in  the  cold,  or  more  rapidly  on  heating,  alkaline  liquids 
containing  salts  of  copper,  bismuth,  mercury,  or  silver,  and  produces  a bright  metallic 
mirror  with  ammoniacal  solution  of  silver.  When  heated  to  130°  C.  (266°  F.)  milk-sugar 
parts  with  its  water  of  crystallization  without  fusion,  and  leaves  a white  mass  which  again 
absorbs  water,  at  a higher  heat  becomes  yellow,  and  melts  at  203.5°  C.  (398°  F.)  (Lieben)  ; 
but  above  170°  C.  (338°  F.)  it  is  converted  into  lacto-caramel , C6H10O5,  and  afterward 
into  products  similar  to  those  obtained  on  the  dry  distillation  of  cane-sugar  and  glucose. 
Milk-sugar  does  not  readily  undergo  vinous  fermentation  until  after  it  has  been  boiled 
with  diluted  sulphuric  acid,  which  converts  it  into  galactose , C6H1206,  and  glucose.  In  the 
presence  of  casein  it  is  converted  into  lactic  acid  (see  page  69),  alcohol  being  formed  at 
the  same  time,  but  in  small  quantity  only  if  the  free  acid  is  neutralized  as  fast  as  it  is 
produced.  By  boiling  with  dilute  nitric  acid  it  is  converted  into  mucic,  saccharic,  tarta- 
ric, racemic,  and  finally  into  oxalic,  acid.  Its  hardness  renders  it  serviceable  for  reducing 
other  substances  to  a fine  powder. 

Tests. — If  1 Gm.  of  sugar  of  milk  be  sprinkled  upon  5 Cc.  of  sulphuric  acid  con- 
tained in  a flat-bottomed  capsule,  the  acid  should  acquire  at  most  a greenish  or  reddish, 
but  no  brown  or  brownish-black,  color  within  half  an  hour  (absence  of  cane-sugar).” — 
U.  >Sy. , P.  G.  It  is  important  that  in  applying  this  test  heat  be  avoided,  since  milk-sugar 
is  rendered  dark-brown  by  concentrated  sulphuric  acid  at  the  heat  of  the  water-bath.  “ On 
adding  0.2  Gm.  of  milk-sugar  to  a boiling  mixture  of  4 Gm.  of  solution  of  basic  lead 
acetate  and  2 Gm.  of  ammonia-water,  a white  precipitate  free  from  a red  tint  should  be 
produced  (absence  of  glucose).” — P.  G. 

Action  and  Uses. — Sugar  of  milk  is  far  less  sweet  than  cane-  or  beet-sugar,  and  is 
thought  to  be  less  apt  to  ferment  in  the  stomach  and  bowels.  It  is  chiefly  used  as  a 
vehicle  for  small  doses  of  pulverulent  medicines.  It  is  said  that  added  largely  to  warm 
skimmed  milk  it  may  be  used  as  a laxative  (Bull,  de  Therap .,  cii.  182).  It  has  been  used 
advantageously  in  many  cases  of  cardiac  dropsy  by  See,  when  given  to  the  extent  of  3 
ounces  a day  dissolved  in  2 quarts  of  water  (Bull,  de  Therap .,  cxviii.  26).  These 
results  were  not  confirmed  by  Niesel  (Cent.  f.  Ther .,  viii.  223),  but  were  so  by  Meilach 
and  by  Zawadski  (ibid.,  pp.  287  and  288). 

SAL.EP,  Fr.  Cod.— Salep. 

Tubera  (Radix)  salep , P.  G. — Salep,  Fr.,  G.,  Sp. 

The  tubers  of  different  species  of  Orchis  and  allied  genera. 

Nat.  Ord. — Orchidaceae,  Ophrydeae. 

Origin  and  Preparation. — The  plants  belonging  to  the  genus  Orchis  are  small 
herbs,  usually  with  a stem  between  15  and  45  Cm.  (6  and  18  inches)  high,  with  showy, 
mostly  pink,  red,  or  purple-colored  ringent  flowers,  having  the  lip  turned  downward  and 


& ALEP. 


1399 


bearing  a nectariferous  spur  underneath,  and  with  parallel-veined  sheathing  leaves,  those 
of  the  stem  often  reduced  to  bracts.  The  subterraneous  portion  usually  consists  of  two 
fleshy  tubers,  the  smaller  of  which  originates  from  the  axil  of  a radical  leaf  and  produces 
the  flowering  stem  during  the  following  year.  These  tubers  furnish  the  salep.  They 
are  collected,  scalded  in  water,  and  rapidly  dried,  and  thereby  lose  their  white  opaque 
appearance,  as  well  as  their  unpleasant  odor  and  bitter  taste.  Salep  was  formerly  pro- 
cured in  Persia  and  other  Oriental  countries  from  the  tubers  of  Eulophia  campestris,  E. 
herbacea,  Bindley , and  several  allied  species.  At  the  present  time  it  is  prepared  in  vari- 
ous parts  of  Southern  and  Central  Europe.  The  German  Pharmacopoeia  admits  only 
unbranched  tubers,  such  as  are  furnished  by  Orchis  mascula,  Linne , 0.  Morio,  Linne , O. 
ustulata,  Linne , Anacamptis  pyramidalis,  Richard , Platanthera  (Habenaria,  R.  Brown ) 
bifolia,  Reichenbach , and  other  species. 

Description. — Oriental  salep  is  25-40  Mm.  (1-lf  inches)  long,  and  usually  dark- 
colored ; European  salep  is  always  smaller.  Salep  is  globular,  pyriform,  ovate,  or  oblong 
in  shape,  somewhat  flattened 
or  wrinkled,  with  a scar  of  the 
terminal  bud  at  the  apex,  of 
a pale  brownish-yellow  color, 
somewhat  translucent,  of  a 
horny  texture,  hard,  inodor- 
ous, and  of  an  insipid,  very 
mucilaginous  taste.  It  is  gen- 
erally kept  in  the  form  of 
powder  which  has  a yellowish 
color.  The  tissue  consists  of 
thin-walled  parenchyma  filled 
with  starch,  the  granules  of 
which  are  more  or  less  ruptured  from  scalding,  and  of  large,  nearly  globular  cells  con- 
taining mucilage.  The  scattered  fibro-vascular  bundles  are  small  and  thin,  and  few  cells 
contain  raphides. 

The  tissue  of  palmately-divided  tubers  is  similar,  but  the  mucilage-cells  are  generally 
much  smaller  and  more  or  less  elongated.  Such  tubers  are  derived  from  Orchis  latifolia, 
Linne , 0.  maculata,  Linne , 0.  sambucina,  Linne , Gymnadsenia  conopsea,  R.  Brown , and 
other  species,  and  were  formerly  known  in  European  pharmacy  as  radix  palmse  Christi. 
They  are  rather  flat,  below  divided  into  two  to  five  branches,  and  less  mucilaginous,  but 
otherwise  resemble  the  former  kind. 

Constituents. — Raspail  found  the  old  tuber  collected  in  autumn  to  be  free  from 
starch,  while  the  young  tuber  contained  then  large  quantities  of  it.  DragendorfF  (1865) 
obtained  from  100  parts  of  salep  starch  27.3,  mucilaginous  constituents  48.1,  sugar  1.2, 
proteids  4.9,  and  cellulose  2.4,  parts ; the  mucilage  is  not  extracted  by  cold  water.  Salep 
yields  2.1  per  cent,  of  ash. 

Adulterations  and  Substitutions. — The  scalded  tuber  of  colehicum  resembles 
salep  in  appearance,  but  has  a broad  groove  on  one  side  and  a sweetish  afterward  bitter 
and  acrid  taste.  An  adulteration  of  powdered  salep  with  starch  is  best  detected  by  the 
microscope,  which  reveals  the  shape  of  the  foreign  starch-granules ; owing  to  the  manner 
of  its  preparation,  salep  has  its  starch  converted  into  a pasty  mass.  1 part  of  powdered 
salep  should  yield,  with  50  parts  of  boiling  water,  a jelly  which  after  cooling  is  father 
stiff,  and  with  100  parts  a thick  turbid  mucilage ; this  has  an  insipid  taste  and  is  ren- 
dered blue  by  iodine. 

Mucilago  salep,  P.  G .,  is  prepared  by  shaking  in  a vial  1 part  of  powdered  salep 
with  10  parts  of  cold  water  until  it  is  uniformly  diffused,  when  90  parts  of  boiling  water 
are  added  and  the  whole  well  agitated. 

Action  and  Uses. — Salep  was,  even  in  ancient  times,  regarded  as  very  nutritious, 
and  as  a demulcent  it  was  used  in  medicine.  It  tends  to  confine  rather  than  relax  the 
bowels,  and  hence  is  a very  useful  article  of  diet  for  infants  and  children  affected  with 
diarrhoea  or  summer  complaint , and  for  adults  suffering  from  tuberculous  and  other  forms 
of  chronic  diarrhoea.  The  mucilage  may  be  prepared  as  above,  or  by  first  macerating 
powdered  salep  in  cold  water,  and  gradually  adding  boiling  water,  with  stirring,  in  the 
proportion  of  5 grains  of  salep  to  the  ounce.  Instead  of  water,  milk  or  some  animal 
broth  may  be  used.  Salep  jelly  may  be  made  as  follows : Rub  60  grains  of  powdered 
salep  with  water  in  a mortar  until  it  has  swollen  to  four  times  its  original  bulk ; then  add 
gradually,  and  with  constant  stirring,  16  ounces  of  boiling  water,  and  boil  down  to  8 ounces. 


Fig.  249. 


Salep : tubers  and  transverse  section. 


1400 


SALICTNVM. 


SALICINUM,  U.  8.,  Br.— Salicin. 

Salicine , Fr. ; Salicin , G. 

A neutral  principle  obtained  from  several  species  of  Salix  and  Populus. 

Nat.  Ord. — Salicacese. 

Formula  C13H1807.  Molecular  weight  285.33. 

Origin. — Salicin  exists  in  the  bark  of  most  species  of  Salix  and  Populus,  and  to  a 
small  extent  also  in  the  leaves  and  pistillate  flowers.  According  to  Herberger,  it  is  best 
prepared  from  the  bark  of  young  wood,  which  contains  it  in  relatively  larger  proportion 
than  the  trunk  bark,  and  associated  with  smaller  quantities  of  other  compounds,  which 
interfere  with  its  isolation.  It  may  also  be  prepared  from  populin  by  boiling  it  with 
lime-water  or  with  solution  of  barium  hydroxide.  Salicin  was  discovered  by  Leroux 
(1830)  ; in  the  same  year  Braconnot  obtained  from  it  saligenin  and  saliretin,  without, 
however,  recognizing  their  relations  to  salicin ; these  and  the  glucoside  nature  of  the 
latter  were  first  established  by  Piria  (1838,  1845).  Herberger  obtained  3 to  4 per  cent, 
of  salicin  from  the  bark  of  Salix  pentandra  and  S.  Helix  ; but  the  results  of  different 
investigators  with  various  species  are  very  variable,  which  may  in  part  be  due  to  the 
kind  of  bark  examined.  This  principle  was  prepared  synthetically  by  A.  Michael 
in  1879. 

Preparation. — A decoction  of  willow-bark  is  deprived  of  tannin  and  coloring  mat- 
ter by  digesting  it  with  levigated  litharge  (Duflos)  or  by  precipitating  with  basic  lead 
acetate  (Peschier)  ; in  the  latter  case  the  free  acid  is  afterward  neutralized  with  calcium 
carbonate.  The  filtrate  on  concentration  yields  crystals  which  require  purification  by 
recrystallization.  The  tannin  may  also  be  removed  by  milk  of  lime,  and  the  salicin 
taken  up  by  alcohol  from  the  filtrate  concentrated  to  a soft  extract. 

Properties. — Salicin  crystallizes  in  colorless  plates  or  flat  rhombic  prisms,  but  is 
usually  seen  in  white  glossy  scales  or  needles.  It#  remains  unaltered  in  the  air,  has  a 
neutral  reaction  to  test-paper,  is  inodorous,  and  possesses  a persistently  bitter  taste.  It 
is  soluble  in  28  parts  of  water  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  and  in  30  parts  of  alcohol.  It  dis- 
solves in  0.7  part  of  boiling  water  and  in  2 parts  of  boiling  alcohol  (ZZ  $.),  is  soluble  in 
amylic  alcohol,  creosote,  and  without  alteration  in  acetic  acid ; dissolves  more  freely  in 
alkaline  liquids  than  in  water,  but  is  insoluble  in  ether,  chloroform,  benzene,  and  petro- 
leum benzin.  Its  ammoniacal  solution  is  not  colored  on  exposure  (difference  from  phlo- 
rizin), and  its  aqueous  solution  is  not  precipitated  by  tannin  or  the  various  reagents  for 
alkaloids.  Salicin  melts  at  198°  C.  (388.4°  F.)  to  a colorless  liquid,  which  on  cooling 
congeals  crystalline ; at  a higher  heat  it  becomes  brown,  at  about  260°  C.  (500°  F.)  gives 
off  acid  vapors  having  the  odor  of  salicylous  acid  and  of  caramel,  and  at  a red  heat  is 
completely  decomposed,  without  leaving  any  residue. 

Cold  sulphuric  acid  dissolves  salicin  with  a bright-red  color ; after  the  absorption  of 
water  from  the  air — but  not  after  the  addition  of  water  or  after  being  neutralized  by  an 
alkali — deposits  a red  powder  (rutilin)  which  after  washing  is  yellowish-red,  after  drying 
blackish-brown,  insoluble  in  water,  alcohol,  and  glacial  acetic  acid,  and  is  colored  violet- 
red  by  alkalies  (Braconnot).  On  warming  salicin  with  somewhat  diluted  sulphuric  acid 
and  potassium  dichromate,  oil  of  meadowsweet  (Spiraea  ulmaria  (Rosaceae),  or  salicylous 
acid  or  salicyl-aldehyde , C7H602,  is  given  off,  recognizable  by  its  peculiar  fragrance.  Sali- 
cin is  a glucoside,  and  when  digested  with  emulsin  or  saliva,  or  heated  to  80°  C.  (128°  F.) 
with  dilute  sulphuric  acid,  assimilates  1 molecule  of  water,  and  is  split  into  glucose  and 
salicylic  alcohol  or  saligenin , C7H802,  which  crystallizes  in  pearly  tables,  is  easily  soluble 
in  hot  water,  alcohol,  and  ether,  melts  at  82°  C.  (179.6°  F.),  and  sublimes  at  100°  C. 
(212°  F.).  Saligenin  is  characterized  by  yielding  in  solution  a deep-blue  color  with  ferric 
chloride,  and  when  boiled  with  dilute  acids  by  being  converted  into  a resinous  body,  sah- 
retin , C14H1403,  while  oxidizing  agents  convert  it  into  salicylous  and  salicylic  acids.  Cold 
nitric  acid  of  specific  gravity  1.16  oxidizes  salicin,  with  the  production  of  helicin , C13H1607, 
which  crystallizes  in  white  needles,  and  is  by  ferments  and  dilute  acids  resolved  into  sugar 
and  salicylic  aldehyde.  If  nitric  acid  of  spec.  grav.  1.09  is  employed,  salicin  yields  heli- 
coidin,  C26H34014,  which  may  be  regarded  as  a compound  of  salicin  and  helicin.  These 
interesting  reactions  have  been  chiefly  investigated  by  Piria  (1837,  etc.). 

Tests.— “ On  heating  a small  portion  of  salicin  in  a test-tube  until  it  turns  brown, 
then  adding  a few  Cc.  of  water,  and  afterward  a drop  of  solution  of  ferric  chloride,  a 
violet  color  will  appear.” — ZZ  S.  The  behavior  of  salicin  to  ammonia  distinguishes  it 
readily  from  phlorizin,  and  its  solubility  in  cold  nitric  acid  from  those  alkaloids  which 


SALTX. 


1401 


acquire  with  this  reagent  a characteristic  color.  To  test  for  poisonous  alkaloids,  which 
may  possibly  be  present,  Hager  recommends  agitating  0.2  Gan.  of  salicin  with  4 Cc.  of 
water  and  1 Cc.  of  potassa  solution,  when  a clear  solution  should  be  obtained.  “ The 
aqueous  solution  of  salicin  should  not  be  precipitated  by  tannic  or  picric  acid,  nor  by 
mercuric  potassium  iodide  (absence  of,  and  difference  from,  alkaloids).” — U.  S. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  experiments  of  Ringer  and  Bury  with  salicin  upon  healthy 
children  appear  to  show  that  it  has  no  influence  upon  the  temperature,  and  that  under 
full  medicinal  doses  a dusky  flush  suffuses  the  face  on  slight  excitement,  while  the 
expression  becomes  dull  and  heavy.  Less  constant  symptoms  are  deafness,  noises  in  the 
ears,  frontal  headache,  trembling  of  the  hands,  and  quickened  breathing.  Very  large 
doses  occasion  severe  headache,  marked  muscular  weakness,  tremor,  and  irritability. 
Tingling  may  be  felt  in  the  extremities,  and  the  voice  becomes  husky  ; the  breathing  is 
hurried,  but  there  is  no  dyspnoea  ; large  doses  often  repeated  raise  the  pulse-rate  to  140 
and  render  the  beats  feeble.  Other  observers  have  noted  an  intermittent  or  a slower 
pulse  among  the  physiological  effects  of  this  medicine,  while  the  greater  number  declare 
that  in  healthy  persons  and  in  medicinal  doses  it  does  not  affect  the  pulse  at  all.  Such 
has  certainly  been  the  case  after  doses  of  40,  and  even  75,  grains,  which  produced  buzz- 
ing in  the  ears  and  a state  of  semi-intoxication.  Like  sodium  salicylate,  salicin  has 
sometimes  produced  haemorrhage  apparently  due  to  dissolution  of  the  blood  (Shaw, 
Lancet , Jan.  1889,  p.  114).  In  some  cases  it  has  caused  vomiting  and  purging,  and  its 
continued  use  has  occasioned  gastric  catarrh.  A similar  dissidence  exists  in  regard  to  its 
influence  upon  the  temperature  in  health.  The  singular  opinion  has  been  expressed  that 
it  is  only  sedative  to  the  calorific  function  when  it  acts  as  a diuretic.  On  the  whole,  we 
repeat,  there  is  no  reason  to  believe  that  in  healthy  persons  it  reduces  the  temperature. 
Salicin  appears  to  render  the  sweat  alkaline  or  neutral  even  in  rheumatic  patients  with 
acid  urine,  but  the  evidence  of  this  operation  is  not  conclusive.  To  its  promotion  of  uri- 
nary elimination  must  be  attributed  its  alleged  action  in  removing  yellowness  of  the  skin 
in  jaundice. 

Salicin  has  been  used,  and  indeed  was  first  used,  in  the  inflammatory  affections  in  which 
it  has  since  been  customary  to  employ  salicylic  acid  and  its  compounds.  In  the  report 
of  one  physician  (Riess),  who  vaunted  the  antiphlogistic  virtues  of  this  substance,  the 
mortality  from  pneumonia  is  stated  to  have  been  11  out  of  35  cases — a result  which  is 
the  reverse  of  encouraging.  The  experience  of  Dr.  Greenhow  in  treating  rheumatic  fever 
with  salicin  was,  on  the  whole,  not  so  satisfactory  as  to  encourage  him  in  continuing  to 
employ  it  ( Trans . Clin.  Soc.,  xiii.  261),  and  the  advocacy  of  it  by  Dr  Maclagan  has  not 
established  its  efficiency.  Conway  vaunted  its  topical  application  in  severe  cases  of  diph- 
theria, but  his  success  has  not  been  matched  ( Practitioner , xxviii.  61).  Many  have 
reported  salicin  to  be  a valuable  substitute  for  quinine,  but  these  reports  are  counter- 
balanced by  others,  which  appear  to  show  that  it  was  quite  powerless  in  periodical  fevers. 
In  neither  case  was  the  natural  tendency  to  cure  of  these  affections  sufficiently  consid- 
ered. In  the  absence  of  quinine,  salicin  may  be  employed  in  mild  cases  of  intermittent 
fever.  Salicin  has  been  found  efficient  in  preventing  the  development  of  acute  coryza 
when  given  in  doses  of  from  Gm.  1.30-2  (20  to  30  grains),  and  also  in  mitigating  the 
symptoms  of  hay  fever.  Turner  and  also  Maclagan  allege  that  it  both  prevents  and 
cures  influenza.  It  has  been  thought  to  moderate  the  pain  of  lumbago.  In  neuralgia  of 
a periodical  type,  and  not  amenable  to  quinine,  it  is  said  to  have  been  very  efficient  in 
doses  of  from  20  to  40  grains,  given  every  hour  for  three  or  four  hours.  Even  diabetic 
patients  are  alleged  to  have  gotten  well  under  the  influence  of  this  medicine ! 

Salicin,  although  not  very  soluble,  may  be  given  in  water  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.60-2.60 
(gr.  x-xl).  It  is  better  to  give  the  smaller  dose  and  repeat  it  frequently  than  to  pre- 
scribe a full  dose  at  once.  It  may  be  administered  in  powdered  liquorice  extract. 

SALIX. — Salix;  Willow. 

Saule  blanc , Fr.  Cod. ; Weidennnde , G.  ; Sauce , Sauz,  Sp. 

The  bark  of  Salix  alba,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 234. 

Nat.  Ord. — Salicaceae. 

Origin. — The  willows  form  a large  genus,  which  is  mostly  confined  to  the  northern 
temperate  zone,  and  with  some  species  extends  into  the  Arctic  regions.  They  are  either 
trees  or  shrubs  with  flexible  branches,  and  have  alternate,  short-petioled,  and  mostly  more 
or  less  lanceolate,  entire,  or  finely  serrate  leaves,  with  small  or  conspicuous  stipules.  The 
flowers  are  dioecious,  in  cylindrical  catkins,  each  bract  being  one-flowered,  and  have  at  the 


1402 


SAL1X. 


Fig.  250. 


base  one  or  two  glands,  but  no  other  floral  envelopes.  The  fruit  is  a one-celled  and  two- 
valved  capsule,  and  contains  numerous  minute  seeds  which  are  furnished  with  a silky 
down.  Most  of  the  species  are  exceedingly  variable  in  some  of  their  characters,  and  all 
grow  in  moist  localities,  along  streams,  etc.  The  species  recognized  by  the  Pharmaco- 
poeia of  1880  is  common  in  Europe,  and  is  frequently  cultivated,  and  has  been  to  some 
extent  naturalized,  in  North  America.  It  grows  to  the  height  of  18-24  M.  (60  or  80 
feet),  and  belongs  to  the  group  of  crack  willows , which  are  characterized  by  having  their 
branches  brittle  at  the  base.  Salix  fragilis,  Linne , resembles  this  species.  Salix  purpurea, 

Linne , is  mostly  shrubby,  with  olive-green,  brownish,  or  pur- 
plish bark,  and  has  the  branches  not  brittle  at  the  base.  A 
large  number  of  hybrids  have  been  observed  between  the 
different  species.  The  bark  is  collected  from  the  branches 
in  spring,  when  it  is  easily  removed  from  the  wood. 

Description. — Willow-bark  is  met  with  in  fragments  or 
quills.  It  varies  in  thickness  between  1-2  Mm.  (J5  and  ^ 
inch),  is  externally  smooth  or  little  wrinkled,  varies  in  color 
between  gray,  brownish,  and  brown-yellow,  is  shining,  when 
young  has  a somewhat  metallic  lustre,  and  is  furnished  with 
some  roundish,  small,  suberous  warts.  The  inner  surface  is 
smooth,  pale-brownish,  or  cinnamon-colored.  The  bark  may 
be  readily  torn  in  a longitudinal  direction,  but  breaks  trans- 
versely with  some  difficulty.  Under  the  thin  corky  layer  it 
has  a green  color,  and  the  inner  bast-layer  is  striate  by  very 
fine  medullary  rays,  is  arranged  in  tangential  rows,  and  may 
be  separated  in  thin  shreds.  The  dry  bark  is  nearly  inodor- 
ous and  has  a bitter  and  astringent  taste.  Willow-bark  collected  from  old  wood  is  usually 
deprived  of  the  more  or  less  fissured  corky  layer,  and  consists  of  the  pale-brownish  liber, 
which  breaks  with  a tough,  splintery  fracture,  and  is  less  bitter  than  the  branch-bark. 
The  parenchyma  of  the  primary  bark  contains  scattered  groups  of  crystals ; the  bast- 
layer  is  formed  of  tangentially-arranged  bast-fibres,  which  are  accompanied  by  crystal- 
cells  and  alternate  with  thin  layers  of  parenchyma  ; the  numerous  narrow  mostly  one- 
rowed  medullary  rays  impart  to  the  bast  a finely-checkered  appearance. 

Constituents. — Salicin,  the  important  medicinal  constituent  of  willow-bark,  has  been 
described  above.  The  other  constituents  are  wax,  fat,  gum,  and  tannin.  The  crack 
willows  appear  to  contain  more  tannin,  and  the  purple  willows  more  salicin.  According 
to  Johanson  (1875),  the  tannin  of  willow-bark  is  a glucoside,  and  gives  with  ferric  salts  a 
blue-black  precipitate,  the  liquid  becoming  purplish-red  on  the  addition  of  soda.  Johan- 
son also  showed  the  presence  of  a kind  of  sugar  having  a slightly  sweet  taste  and  redu- 
cing alkaline  copper  solution  with  difficulty,  and  of  the  glucoside  benzohelicin , C2oH2o08, 
which  was  prepared  by  Piria  (1851)  by  dissolving  populin  in  cold  nitric  acid;  it  yields 
with  sulphuric  acid  a yellow  solution  which,  on  the  addition  of  water,  becomes  colorless 
and  gives  off  the  odor  of  salicylous  acid. 

The  bark  and  leaves  of  different  species  of  Populus  contain,  in  addition  to  salicin, 
populin  or  benzoyl-salicin , C20H22O8,  which  crystallizes  in  white  needles  of  a sweet  and 
somewhat  acrid  taste,  and  yields,  under  the  influence  of  dilute  acids,  benzoic  acid  and 


■■  . ~ , • 'y  . 

m 1 m 


Willow-bark : transverse  section 
magnified  15  diameters. 


decomposition-products  of  salicin. 

Action  and  Uses. — Willow-bark  was  anciently  employed  in  medicine  as  an  astrin- 
gent. Like  simple  bitters,  it  appears  to  increase  the  appetite  and  improve  the  digestion, 
but  if  its  use  is  long  continued  it  confines  the  bowels.  It  has  been  used  in  cases  of  dys- 
pepsia and  of  general  debility  and  to  lessen  excessive  discharges  from  mucous  membranes. 
It  has  had  some  repute  as  a vermifuge , and  its  powder  has  been  applied  as  a dressing  for 
unhealthy  and  gangrenous  ulcers.  Before  being  introduced  into  medicine  willow-bark 
had  been  a popular  domestic  febrifuge.  It  was  first  recommended  for  the  treatment  of 
intermittent  fever  by  Stone  of  London  in  1763,  and  was  reported  to  be  efficient  by  many 
others  down  to  the  discovery  of  salicin  in  1825.  A fluid  extract  of  N.  nigra  is  credited 
by  Paine  with  allaying  sexual  erethism  ( Report  of  Texas  Med.  Soc .,  1885).  His  state- 
ment is  corroborated  by  Fenwick  and  by  Hutchison  in  England  {Med.  Record,  xxxii.  487, 
517),  and  partially  by  Oliver  ( Lancet , May  5,  1888). 

Powdered  willow-bark  may  be  given  in  doses  of  Gm.  1.30-4  (gr.  xx-lx)  three  times  a 
day  as  a tonic ; as  an  antiperiodic  at  least  Gm.  32  (gj)  must  be  taken  during  an  inter- 
mission. A decoction  or  infusion  may  be  made  with  Gm.  32  (an  ounce)  of  the  bruised 
bark  to  500  Cc.  (a  pint)  of  water. 


SALOL. 


1403 


SALOL,  II.  S.— Salol. 

Salolum , P.  G. ; Phenyl  salicylate , E. ; Salicylate  cle  phenol , Fr. ; Salicylsaure-plienyl- 
sether , Phenylsalicylat , Salol,  G. 

Formula  C6H4(0H)C02C6H5  = C6H5C7H503.  Molecular  weight  213.49. 

Salol  was  first  produced  by  Nencki  in  1883,  and  introduced  into  medicine  by  Sahli  in 

1886. 

Preparation. — When  dehydrating  agents  are  made  to  act  upon  a mixture  of  phenol 
and  salicylic  acid,  phenyl  salicylate  is  formed  and  water  eliminated.  For  this  purpose 
a mixture  of  sodium-phenol  and  sodium  salicylate  in  molecular  proportions  may  either  be 
treated  for  some  time  with  phosphorus  oxychloride  or  a slow  current  of  phosgene  gas  (car- 
bonyl chloride)  may  be  passed  into  a warmed  mixture  of  the  two  salts : in  the  first  case 
the  secondary  or  by-products  consist  of  sodium  chloride  and  metaphosphate,  and  in  the 
second  case  of  sodium  chloride  and  carbon  dioxide.  These  are  removed  by  washing  the 
mass  repeatedly  with  water,  and  recrystallizing  the  residuary  salol  from  alcohol. 

A later  process,  which  has  been  patented,  consists  in  heating  pure  or  even  crude  sali- 
cylic acid  in  a flask  with  a long  narrow  neck  in  a bath  to  220°-230°  C.  (428°-446°  F.)  ; 
air  is  excluded  by  keeping  the  flask  filled  with  carbon  dioxide,  and  the  length  of  the  neck 
permits  only  vapors  of  water  and  carbon  dioxide  to  escape.  The  theory  underlying  the 
reaction  is.  the  conversion  of  the  salicylic  acid  into  its  anhydride,  and  the  subsequent 
decomposition  of  this  into  phenylsalicylate  and  carbon  dioxide,  according  to  the 
equations  : 2C6H4(0H)C02H  ==  (C6H4C02H)20  + H20  ; — (C6H4C02H)20  = C6H4(OH) 
C02C6H5  -J-  C02. 

Properties. — Salol  occurs  as  a white  crystalline  powder,  of  slightly  aromatic  odor 
and  taste,  and  melting  at  42°  C.  (107.6°  F.).  It  is  sparingly  soluble  in  water,  but  solu- 
ble in  10  parts  of  alcohol  or  0.3  part  of  ether.  Also  soluble  in  chloroform.  Heated  on 
platinum-foil,  it  burns  with  a sooty  flame,  without  leaving  a residue.  Bromine-water 
added  to  an  alcoholic  solution  of  salol  causes  a white  precipitate  of  monobromsalol. 
When  heated  with  caustic  soda  solution  salol  is  decomposed  into  sodium-phenol  and  sali- 
cylate ; the  further  addition  of  hydrochloric  acid  precipitates  salicylic  acid  and  develops 
the  odor  of  phenol. 

Tests. — Salol  should  not  redden  moistened  blue  litmus-paper  (absence  of  free  acid). 
Shaken  with  50  parts  of  water,  a filtrate  is  obtained  which  should  not  be  colored  violet 
by  dilute  ferric  chloride  solution  (absence  of  uncombined  phenol  and  salicylic  acid),  nor 
by  solutions  of  barium  nitrate  or  silver  nitrate  (absence  of  sulphates  and  chlorides). 

Derivative  and  Allied  Compounds.— Salophen.  Acetylpara-amidophenolsalicylate,  C6II4- 
(0H)C02.C6H4NII.C0CH3.  This  compound  was  introduced  in  1891  as  a substitute  for  salol, 
from  which  it  differs  chiefly  in  yielding  harmless  acetylpara-amidophenol,  instead  of  toxic  phenol, 
when  decomposed  in  the  human  organism.  It  is  prepared  by  a complicated  process,  the  first 
step  being  the  preparation  of  paranitrophenol  salicylate  in  a manner  similar  to  the  production 
of  salol ; then  converting  this  into  para-amidophenol  salicylate  by  means  of  reducing  agents,  and 
finally,  by  the  action  of  acetic  acid,  into  acetylpara-amidophenol  salicylate  or  salophen^  which  is 
purified  by  crystallization  from  benzene  or  alcohol.  It  occurs  as  minute  white  scales  containing 
50.9  per  cent,  of  salicylic  acid,  is  of  neutral  reaction,  and  is  free  from  odor  and  taste.  Salophen 
melts  at  187°-188°  C.  (368.6°-370.4°  F.).  It  is  insoluble  in  cold,  but  somewhat  soluble  in  hot 
water,  and  is  readily  taken  up  by  alcohol,  ether,  and  solution  of  the  alkalies.  When  salophen 
is  heated  with  sulphuric  acid  and  alcohol,  the  odor  of  acetic  ether  is  developed.  Salophen 
should  not  be  confounded  with  u saliphen,"  the  name  given  to  salicyl-phenetidin,  a compound 
of  salicylic  acid  and  phenetidin  introduced  in  1890,  and  having  the  formula  C6H4OC2H5NIIC6- 

Salicylamide.  C6II4(OII)CONII2.  This  compound  is  produced  by  the  action  of  dry  am- 
monia gas  on  methyl  salicylate  in  the  form  of  oil  of  wintergreen.  It  is  a colorless  or  slightly 
yellowish-white  crystalline  powder,  melting  at  138°  C.  (280.4°  F.),  and  soluble  in  alcohol'  and 
ether  ; it  requires  about  250  parts  of  cold  water  for  solution.  Salicylamide  is  quite  tasteless,  but 
produces  a gritty  feeling  between  the  teeth  ; treated  with  caustic  soda,  it  is  converted  into  sodium 
salicylate  and  ammonia. 

Salol-camphor,  Camphol,  is  a colorless  or  pale-yellow  oily  liquid,  obtained  by  mixing  3 parts 
of  salol  with  2 parts  of  camphor,  and  heating  gradually  to  complete  fusion  ; it  should  be  preserved 
in  yellow  hermetically  sealed  bottles,  as  it  readily  decomposes  when  exposed  to  light  and  air. 

Diiodosalol.  Phenyldiiodosalicylate.  C6II2I2(0II)C02C6II5.  A tastel  ess  and  odorless  crys- 
tal1™5 powder,  obtained  as  a condensation-product  of  phenol  with  diiodosalicylic  acid:  it  fuses 
at  133°  C.  (271.4°  F.). 

Gresalol.  Cresol  salicylate,  C6II4(0H)C02C6H4CH3.  This  is  a crystalline  compound  analo- 
gous to  betol  and  salol.  It  is  obtained  by  the  interaction  of  cresol  and  salicylic  acid  in  the  form 


1404 


SALOL. 


of  sodium  salts  in  the  presence  of  phosphorus  oxychloride : three  varieties  are  formed,  depending 
on  the  sodium  salt  (ortho-,  meta-,  or  para-)  used.  All  are  insoluble  in  water,  hut  soluble  in  alcohol 
and  ether.  Meta-  and  paracresol  salicylate  have  been  used  internally  in  place  of  salol : the 
former  melts  at  74°  C.  (165.2°  F.)  the  latter  at  40°  C.  (104°  F.). 

Action  and  Uses. — Most  observers  state  that,  unlike  salicylic  acid,  salol  does  not, 
even  in  large  doses,  cause  ringing  in  the  ears,  and  Lombard  refers  to  one  case  in  which  no 
functional  disorder  was  produced  by  Gm.  8 (120  gr.).  It  is,  however,  unquestionable  that, 
like  salicylic  acid,  it  may  occasion  tinnitus,  irregular  heart-beat,  and,  less  frequently,  sweat- 
ing. Herrlich  states  that  in  typhoid  fever  it  sometimes  causes  nausea,  vomiting,  and  per- 
sistent loss  of  appetite,  and  even  rigors,  followed  by  fever.  In  a case  of  chronic  rheuma- 
tism it  brought  on  dysury  and  vesical  tenesmus,  with  dark  urine  ( Archives  gen .,  Nov. 
1887,  p.  616).  Two  drachms  of  it  have  caused  death  with  signs  of  carbolic-acid  poisoning 
(Hesselbach).  In  another  case  a dose  of  Gm.  1 (gr.  xv.)  caused  a like  catastrophe 
( Lancet , May  23,  1891).  There  can  be  no  doubt  that  the  poisonous  action  of  the  com- 
pound is  due  to  the  carbolic  acid  it  contains.  Herpetic  eruptions  and  urticaria  have  oc- 
curred among  its  occasional  effects  {Med.  Record , xxxiii.  244  ; Centralbl.  f.  Med .,  vi.  298). 

This  preparation  has  been  used  chiefly  for  the  cure  of  acute  articular  rheumatism , in 
which  Nencki  and  Sahli  found  it  as  efficient  as  sodium  salicylate  when  given  in  doses  of 
30  gr.  three  or  four  times  a day.  They  also  used  it  in  the  chronic  form  and  in  muscular 
rheumatism  {Med.  News,  xlviii.  707).  Others  have  furnished  less  favorable  reports,  of 
whom  Rosenberg  states  that  relapses  were  more  frequent  than  after  the  use  of  salicylic 
acid ; and  others,  like  Herrlich,  noted  that  it  did  not  lessen  the  tendency  to  complications 
and  relapses.  In  these  views  Kleefeld  concurs,  and  the  general  drift  of  opinion  is 
expressed  by  Bielschowsky — viz.  that  the  medicine  has  the  same  mode  of  action  in 
acute  articular  rheumatism  as  salicylic  acid,  antipyrine,  and  antifebrin,  with  a less 
tendency  to  produce  unpleasant  symptoms  {Centralb.f  Ther .,  v.  pp.  243-246),  but  is  less 
efficient  than  salicylic  acid  in  controlling  pain,  for  which  these  several  preparations  are 
useful,  and  decidedly  less  so  than  sodium  salicylate  {Bull,  de  Therap.,  cxiii.  197). 
Aufrecht,  however,  holds  that  in  chronic  articular  rheumatism  salol  is  sometimes  prefer- 
able to  salicylic  acid  when  the  latter  fails  or  is  no  longer  tolerated  {Centralb.  f.  Tlier.,  vi. 
78).  Demme  did  not  find  the  medicine  satisfactory  in  rheumatism  occurring  in  children 
{ibid.,  vi.  298),  nor  did  Bradford  regard  it  as  equal  to  sodium  salicylate  for  adults  {Bos- 
ton Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  July,  1888,  p.  67).  On  the  whole,  little  doubt  can  be  enter- 
tained that  the  value  of  the  compound  in  rheumatism  depends  upon  the  salicylic 
acid  it  contains — a view  which  explains  the  fact  that  only  relatively  large  doses  of 
it  are  efficient. 

The  anodyne  virtues  of  the  medicine  have  also  been  made  useful  in  relieving  the 
lancinating  pains  which  attend  sclerosis  of  the  spinal  cord  and  other  forms  of  neuralgia, 
as  Lombard,  Montagne,  and  Cheron  testify.  As  an  antipyretic  it  was  found  useless  by 
Lombard  in  pneumonia,  phthisis,  measles,  mumps,  scarlet  fever,  erysipelas,  intermittent 
fever,  etc. ; and  in  this  also  its  analogy  with  salicylic  acid  is  notable.  Capart  claims  that 
it  aborts  tonsillitis  {Therap.  Gaz.,  xiii.  701).  The  influence  of  the  carbolic-acid  element 
in  salol  is  shown  by  the  utility  of  the  compound  as  an  application  to  various  ulcers  of 
the  mouth  and  throat,  in  ozsena , diphtheria , otorrhoea,  gonorrhoea , vesical  catarrh,  etc.,  and 
as  a substitute  for  iodoform  in  surgical  dressings.  It  is,  however,  difficult  of  application 
in  these  cases,  owing  to  its  slight  solubility.  As  a wash  a dessert-spoonful  of  a 6 per 
cent,  solution  of  the  compound  in  alcohol,  added  to  a tumbler  of  water,  was  employed. 
Like  carbolic  acid,  it  is  useful  in  fermentative  dyspepsia.  Saalfeld  claimed  that  a 5-8 
per  cent,  ointment  of  salol  with  vaseline  is  efficient  in  sycosis  and  impetigo  contagiosa 
{Med.  News,  liv.  18),  and  Graetzer  recommended  a powder  of  starch  containing  4-6  per 
cent,  of  salol  as  a useful  application  to  ulcers  of  the  legs,  gangrenous  sores,  etc.  ( Therap. 
Monatsh .,  iii.  536).  In  cystitis  with  ammoniacal  and  turbid  urine  by  the  daily  use  of 
30—40  gr.  of  salol  the  urine  is  cleared  up  and  can  be  passed  without  difficulty  (Arnold, 
Demme,  Dreyfous).  This  effect  is  chiefly  due  to  the  carbolic  acid  of  the  compound, 
which  with  the  salicylic  acid  is  eliminated  by  the  kidneys.  It  is  unnecessary  to  do  more 
than  mention  the  employment  of  salol  in  diabetes,  typhoid  fever,  cholera  infantum,  etc., 
in  none  of  which  is  there  proof  of  its  utility. 

Salol  may  be  given  to  the  extent  of  Gm.  1.30-2  (gr.  xx-xxx)  a day  in  divided  doses, 
but  it  has  been  prescribed  in  much  larger  quantities,  such  as  from  Gm.  2-3  (gr.  xxx-xlv) 
a day  (Lombard).  According  to  the  Extra  Pharmacopoeia  (Br.),  the  dose  is  Gm.  0.67- 
1.30  (gr.  x-xxx).  It  may  be  administered  in  capsules  or  in  emulsion,  or  simply  sus- 
pended in  milk. 


SALVIA. 


1405 


Salicylamide,  proposed  as  a substitute  for  salicylic  acid  as  being  tasteless,  more 
soluble,  prompter  in  its  action  in  smaller  doses,  and  of  greater  analgesic  properties,  was 
given  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.195-0.325  (gr.  iij-v)  several  times  a day.  It  has  not  yet  justi- 
fied its  claims  (Squibb). 

Salipyrine,  it  is  claimed,  is  not  apt  to  produce  unfavorable  symptoms,  except,  perhaps, 
a transient  erythema,  but  in  full  doses  it  certainly  occasions  sweating  and  disorders  of 
the  stomach.  It  is  antipyretic  and  analgesic,  and  has  been  employed  chiefly  in  typhoid 
fever  and  acute  articular  rheumatism.  Like  its  congeners,  it  palliates  pain  in  the  latter 
disease,  but  does  not  shorten  the  duration  or  prevent  the  complications  of  either  affec- 
tion. It  is  anodyne  in  neuralgia.  In  fact,  its  action  is  that  of  its  constituents.  The 
doses  used  have  been,  in  acute  febrile  affections,  Gm.  2,  followed  after  one  or  two  hours 
by  doses  of  Gm.  1 at  hourly  intervals  for  four  hours. 

Salophen  is  reported  to  be  one  of  the  most  speedy  and  efficient  remedies  in  acute 
articular  rheumatism.  Frohlich  regards  it  as  “ preferable  to  sodium  salicylate  and  salol, 
because  it  is  not  hygroscopic,  is  tasteless,  and  can  be  used  for  a long  time  without  any 
ill  effects.”  This  judgment  is  confirmed  by  Guttmann,  Gerhardo,  and  others.  It  is  also 
said  to  relieve  habitual  headaches,  hemicrania,  and  trigeminal  and  other  neuralgias.  It 
may  be  given  in  doses  of  Gm.  1 (gr.  xv)  every  two  hours  up  to  Gm.  6 (gr.  xc)  in  twenty- 
four  hours. 

Cresalol — or  rather  the  several  compounds  so  called — is  antiseptic  and  free  from 
disagreeable  odor.  It  is  said  to  correct  and  restrain  offensive  discharges  from  wounds, 
etc.,  and  has  been  given  internally  for  a similar  purpose. 

SALVIA,  TJ.  S. — Salvia  ; Sage. 

Folia  ( Herha ) salviae,  P.  A.,  P.  G.  ; Sauge  officinale , Fr.  Cod. ; Salbei , G.  ; Salvia,  Sp. 

The  leaves  of  Salvia  officinalis,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  206. 

Nat.  Ord. — Labiatae,  Monardese. 

Origin  and  Description. — Sage  is  a suffruticose  perennial  indigenous  to  Southern 
Europe  and  extensively  cultivated  in  England,  France,  and  Germany  and  in  gardens  in 
the  United  States  (garden  sage').  The  stem  is  about  60  Cm. 

( 2 feet)  high,  woody  at  the  base,  much  branched,  quadrangu- 
lar, and  whitish  pubescent  above.  The  leaves  are  opposite, 
petiolate,  5-8  Cm.  (2  or  3 inches)  long,  thickish,  ovate-  or 
lance-oblong,  obtuse  or  subacute,  finely  crenulate  on  the 
margin,  wrinkled,  grayish-green,  and  beneath  soft  hairy. 

The  lower  leaves  are  sometimes  auricular  or  rounded,  more 
frequently  narrowed,  at  the  base,  the  upper  ones  smaller  and 
nearly  sessile.  The  flowers  are  in  three-flowered  cymes  in 
the  axils  of  the  upper  leaves  or  bracts,  have  a tubular,  bell- 
shaped, bilabiate,  brownish,  pubescent  calyx,  with  mucronate 
divisions,  and  a violet-blue,  bilabiate  corolla,  with  a short 
tube,  a depressed,  helmet-shaped  upper  lip,  three-lobed, 
spreading  lower  lip,  and  two  stamens.  All  parts  of  the 
plant  are  more  or  less  glandular  and  have  a peculiar  strong, 
aromatic  odor,  and  a warm,  bitterish,  and  somewhat  astring- 
ent taste. 

Constituents. — The  most  important  constituent  is  vola- 
tile oil,  of  which  the  fresh  herb  yields  l to  \ per  cent.,  and 
when  recently  dried  about  three  times  this  quantity.  Oil 
of  sage  is  of  a greenish  or  yellowish  color,  has  the  density 
0.86  to  0.93,  commences  to  boil  at  130°  C.  (266°  F.),  and  is  very  freely  soluble  in  80 
per  cent,  alcohol.  P.  Muir  (1876)  found  the  portion  boiling  between  156°  and  158°  C. 
(312.8°  and  316.4°  F.)  to  be  a terpene,  Ci0H16,  which  yielded  cymene  under  the  influence 
of  sulphuric  acid  and  terephtalic  acid  when  treated  with  sulphuric  acid  and  potassium 
dichromate.  The  portion  having  the  boiling-point  10°  C.  (18°  F.)  higher  yielded  iden- 
tical products,  and  in  the  neighborhood  of  200°  C.  (392°  F.)  an  oxygenated  portion  was 
obtained,  which  Muir  designated  salviol,  CI0H18O,  and  at  260°  C.  (500°  F.)  a hydrocar- 
bon of  the  formula  C18H24.  The  stearopten  of  the  oil  melts  at  187°  C.  (368.6°  F.),  and 
closely  resembles  ordinary  camphor.  The  other  constituents  of  sage  are  of  no  medicinal 
importance,  and  are  those  commonly  found  in  plants ; Hirsch  did  not  succeed  in  obtain- 
ing tannin. 


Fig.  251. 


1406 


SAMBUCUS. 


Fig.  252. 


Sage-leaf : upper  and 
lower  surface. 


Pharmaceutical  Preparations. — Aqua  salvia,  Sage- 
water.  Distil  10  parts  of  water  from  1 part  of  sage-leaves. — 
P.  G.  1872. 

Infusum  salvia:.  Sage  % troyounce,  boiling  water  a pint. — 
U S.  1870. 

Allied  Species. — Most  species  of  Salvia  are  aromatic  and  bitter. 
Salvia  pratensis,  Linne , and  S.  Sclera,  Linne , are  used  in  Southern 
Europe;  S.  lyrata,  Linne,  is  common  in  North  America,  but  only 
slightly  aromatic. 

Salvia  polystachya,  Ortega  (Salvia  Chian,  La  Have).  The  fruit  of 
this  Mexican  species  is  used  under  the  name  of  chia-seed.  It  is  about 
2 Mm.  (y1^  inch)  long,  about  1.2  Mm.  (Jq  inch)  broad,  flattish-globular, 
gray  marbled  with  brown,  glossy,  internally  white  and  oily.  The  testa 
is  covered  with  a transparent  epithelium  containing  much  insipid  muci- 
lage, which,  according  to  Hiland  Flowers  (1882),  is  coagulated  by  ferric 
chloride  ; the  white  embryo  contains  a pale-yellow  drying  oil.  Accord- 
ing to  Profs.  Gray  and  Rothrock,  the  fruit  of  Salvia  Columbariae,  Ben- 
tham , which  is  indigenous  to  New  Mexico  and  westward,  is  likewise 
known  as  chia-seed.  The  fruit  of  Salvia  verticillata,  S.  verbenaca,  S. 
llorminum,  Limit,  and  other  species,  are  also  mucilaginous. 


Action  and  Uses. — Sage  is  an  ancient  medicine.  From  the  time  of  Hippocrates, 
when  it  was  reputed  to  be  desiccant  and  astringent,  it  was  used  in  chronic  pulmonary 
complaints  and  uterine  derangements  and  as  a dressing  for  wounds  and  sores.  Later  on, 
it  was  regarded  as  emmenagogue,  and  used  to  arrest  haemoptysis  and  as  a gargle  for  sore 
throat. 

Sage  is  stimulant,  tonic,  and  astringent.  Pidoux  states  that,  having  caught  cold  dur- 
ing the  month  of  July,  an  infusion  of  half  an  ounce  of  sage  caused  him  to  sweat  copi- 
ously for  several  hours.  Such  elfects  are  likely  to  be  produced  by  a hot  infusion  of  any 
stimulant  herb.  It  is  certain  that  a cold  infusion  of  sage  has  in  all  ages  been  employed 
to  moderate  excessive  sweats  depending  upon  debility  alone.  An  infusion  in  red  wine  is 
to  be  preferred  for  this  purpose.  It  is  less  serviceable  in  the  colliquative  sweats  of 
phthisis  accompanied  by  hectic  fever,  yet  even  in  them  it  adds  to  the  power  of  aromatic 
sulphuric  acid  when  used  as  a vehicle  for  the  latter.  A strong  infusion  of  sage  has  been 
employed  successfully  to  hasten  the  drying  up  of  the  milk  at  weaning-time.  Sage  tea  or 
an  infusion  of  sage  in  red  wine  is  a popular  and  efficient  remedy  for  aphthous  and  other 
ulcers  of  the  mouth  and  for  all  forms  of  sore  throat ; it  is  best  applied  as  a wash  or  gargle 
when  sweetened  with  honey.  Its  power  is  increased  by  the  addition  of  vinegar,  alum, 
borax,  or  potassium  chlorate.  Externally,  similar  applications  are  of  great  value  in  heal- 
ing ulcers  and  the  raw  surfaces  occurring  in  intertrigo,  etc.  Chronic  nasal  catarrh  has 
been  benefited  by  injections  of  sage  tea  (D.  H.  Agnew).  The  aromatic  wine  of  the 
French  Codex,  which  is  so  largely  used  for  the  treatment  of  chancres  and  other  ulcers, 
contains  sage.  Sage  is  much  used  as  a seasoning  for  gross  and  fat  meats,  such  as  pork 
and  goose.  It  is  seldom  prescribed  internally,  unless  in  an  infusion,  which  is  no  longer 
official. 

Dr.  Henry  M.  Stille,  who  has  long  practised  in  Mexico  and  Texas,  informs  us  that  a 
decoction  of  chia-seeds  is  applied  cold  in  external  inflammations — e.  g.  of  the  eye.  It  is 
also  given  internally,  sweetened  with  sugar,  in  febrile  affections,  sore  throat,  etc.  The 
Mexicans  describe  it  as  “ cooling.” 


SAMBUCUS,  U.  Sambucus  ; Elder. 

Sambuci  Jlores , Br.,  P.  G. ; Sureau,  Fr. ; Flieder , Hollander,  G. ; Sauco,  Sahuco,  Sp. 

The  flowers  of  Sambucus  canadensis,  Linne  (S.  nigra,  Linne,  Br.,  P.  Gi).  Bentley 
and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  137,  138. 

Nat.  Ord, — Caprifoliacese. 

Origin. — The  American  elder  is  suffruticose,  attaining  a height  of  2.4-3  M.  (8  or  10 
feet),  and  grows  in  moist  thickets  and  on  the  banks  of  streams  throughout  a great  por- 
tion of  North  America.  It  has  opposite  mostly  smooth  leaves , with  from  seven  to  eleven 
short-stalked,  oblong,  pointed,  serrate  leaflets,  the  lower  pair  of  which  is  frequently  three- 
parted,  and  juicy,  purplisli-black,  drupaceous  fruits,  containing  three  one-seeded  hard  nut- 
lets and  having  an  acidulous  and  sweetish  taste.  The  bark,  leaves,  and  fruit  are  some- 
times medicinally  employed,  besides  the  flowers. 


SAMBUCUS. 


1407 


Description. — Elder-flowers  are  in  large,  level-topped  cymes,  which  terminate  the 
small  branches  and  are  five-branched  below  and  forked  above.  The  marginal  flowers  are 
occasionally  radiate ; all  have  a superior  calyx,  with  five  minute  teeth,  a wheel-shaped, 
cream-colored,  or  whitish  corolla,  with  a short  tube  and  a spreading  five-lobed  limb,  and 
five  stamens  which  are  inserted  between  the  obtuse  corolla-lobes.  The  flowers  appear  in 
June,  and  have  in  their  fresh  state  a peculiar  rather  disagreeable  odor,  which  becomes 
more  pleasant  and  sweetish  on  drying.  They  are  collected  when  in  full  bloom,  and  rap- 
idly dried  to  prevent  them  from  turning  black  ; the  corollas  fall  oft'  very  readily,  and  are 
separated  from  the  stalks  by  shaking.  Well-dried  elder-flowers  are  of  a pale  brownish- 
yellow  color,  and  have  a slight  peculiar  odor  and  a sweetish,  mucilaginous,  and  bitterish 
taste.  The  constituents  of  this  drug  appear  to  be  closely  allied  to  those  of  the  European 
elder. 

Sambucus  nigra,  Linne,  extends  throughout  the  greater  portion  of  Europe,  Southern 
Siberia,  and  Northern  Africa.  It  is  a shrub  or  small  tree,  has  the  leaflets  ovate-oblong 
and  acute,  and  the  flowers  in  smaller  compound  cymes  than  the  preceding  ; otherwise  the 
two  species  resemble  each  other  very  closely. 

Constituents. — European  elder-flowers  contain  as  their  most  important  principle  a 
volatile  oil  which,  according  to  the  investigations  of  Eliason,  Pagenstecher,  and  others,  is 
yellowish  and  limpid,  but  mostly  of  a butyraceous  consistence,  of  a strong  odor  and  of  a 
warm,  bitterish,  afterward  cooling  taste.  The  recently-dried  flowers  yield  only  3 to  J per 
cent,  of  it  if  the  distilled  water  is  extracted  with  ether.  The  remaining  constituents  of 
the  flowers  are  acrid  resin,  a little  tannin,  mucilage,  albumen,  and  other  common  veg- 
etable principles ; among  the  salts  are  potassium  and  calcium  malates.  Scheele  found 
in  the  berries  mucilage,  sugar,  and  malic  acid,  and  Kraemer  (1846)  obtained  from  the 
bark  viburnic  acid , which  is  identical  with  valerianic  acid.  C.  Gr.  Traub  (1881)  ascer- 
tained that  the  bark  of  American  elder  contains  likewise  valerianic  acid,  and  in  addition 
lesin,  tannin,  sugar,  etc.  J.  B.  Metzger  (1881)  found  in  the  berries  sugar,  gum,  tannin, 
fat,  etc. 

Allied  Species. — Sambucus  Ebulus,  Linne.  All  parts  of  this  European  species  have  a strong, 
disagreeable  color  and  a bitterish,  somewhat  acrid  taste.  At  present  the  four-seeded  fruit,  which 
resembles  elder-berries,  but  has  a more  agreeable  taste,  is  occasionally  employed.  The  plant  is 
known  as  dwarf-elder,  E.;  yeble  or  hieble,  Fr.  Cod. ; Attich,  G.;  and  yezgo,  Sp. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparations. — Succus  sambuci  inspissatus. — Extract  of 
elder-berries,  E. ; Bob  de  sureau,  Fr. ; Fliedermus,  G. — Bruise  fresh  elder-berries,  after 
twenty-four  hours  express  the  juice,  allow  to  settle,  decant,  strain,  and  evaporate  the 
clear  liquid  to  the  consistence  of  a soft  extract. — F.  Cod.  It  has  a sweet  acidulous  taste 
and  dissolves  in  water  with  a brown-red  color. 

Action  and  Uses. — Elder-berries  (S.  nigra)  are  cooling,  aperient,  and  diuretic,  and 
when  their  juice  is  fermented  it  forms  a wine  which  is  much  used  in  England  as  a domes- 
tic cordial.  The  flowers  are  said  to  be  poisonous  to  peacocks  and  the  berries  to  hens 
(Strumpf ).  According  to  Cazin,  cattle  refuse  to  eat  the  leaves,  caterpillars  avoid  them, 
and  hence  the  shrubs  are  planted  around  the  beds  of  kitchen-gardens ; the  flowers  are 
used  to  preserve  clothing  from  moths. 

The  ancients  considered  elder-bark  and  leaves  as  purgative  and  diuretic,  and  several 
centuries  ago  the  leaves,  bark,  and  seeds  were  much  used  in  dropsy,  and  the  flowers  for 
fomentations,  as  they  continue  to  be  at  the  present  time.  From  the  flowers  a water  is 
distilled  which  is  employed  as  a perfume,  and  an  ointment  is  prepared  with  them  for  the 
treatment  of  burns  and  excoriations.  An  ointment  made  with  the  inner  bark  has  been 
used  in  tinea  capitis , as  a dressing  for  blisters  and  various  excoriations  and  sores,  and  in 
erysipelas , as  well  as  for  moderating  the  pain  of  haemorrhoids , and  in  poultices  as  an  appli- 
cation to  gangrenous  tissues,  glandular  engorgements,  etc.  For  most  of  these  purposes  an 
infusion  of  the  flowers  is  employed.  Porcher  states  ( Resources  of  the  Southern  Fields , 
etc.,  p.  448)  that  “ a decoction  made  by  pouring  boiling  water  over  the  leaves,  flowers,  or 
berries  of  the  elder  is  recommended  as  a wash  for  wounds  to  prevent  injury  from  flies. 
An  ointment  is  used  for  the  same  purpose.”  Tn  the  same  work  elder  is  said  to  have  been 
employed  in  an  ointment — which,  however,  contained  sulphur — in  the  treatment  of  scabies. 
Dr.  T.  A.  Smith  of  Creve  Cceur,  Mo.,  informs  us  that  a strong  decoction  of  sambucus  is 
employed  in  his  neighborhood  to  expel  maggots  from  parts  not  readily  accessible,  particu- 
larly the  nostrils  ; and  adds  that  a decoction  made  with  the  green  leaves  and  shoots  of 
the  elder  succeeded  perfectly  in  driving  away  these  creatures  from  the  wounds  made  in 
cutting  off  lambs’  tails  when  every  other  application  had  failed.  It  acted  very  promptly 
and  was  entirely  unirritating.  The  young  leaf-buds  are  said  to  be  a drastic  cathartic,  but 


1408 


SANG  UINARIA. 


the  fresh  inner  bark  is  more  efficacious.  The  juice  of  the  root  of  S.  nigra  has  been  found 
to  act  as  a hydragogue  cathartic  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  32-64  (^j-ij),  taken  fasting.  This 
dose  excites  copious  salivation,  followed  by  vomiting  without  excessive  straining;  later, 
watery  stools  occur,  and  continue  for  eight  or  ten  hours.  In  this  country  similar  effects 
have  followed  the  use  of  the  native  elder-bark  (S.  canadensis)  infused  in  hard  cider.  The 
expressed  juice  of  the  root  of  the  official  plant  may  be  given  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  64 
(f:|ij)  every  two  hours  until  its  specific  operation  begins.  A decoction  is  made  by  boiling 
an  ounce  of  the  inner  bark  in  2 pints  of  water  until  reduced  to  Gm.  32  in  Gm.  1000  to 
Gm.  500  (a  pint) ; of  this  Gm.  128  (4  fluidounces)  may  be  given  at  a dose. 

SANGUINARIA,  U.  S.—\ Sanguinaria. 

Bloodroot,  Puccoon , Tettencort , Indian  paint , E. ; Sanguinaire , Fr. ; Blutwurzel , G. 

The  rhizome  of  Sanguinaria  canadensis,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 20. 

Nat.  Ord. — Papaveracese,  Eupapavereae. 

Origin. — Bloodroot  is  a native  of  Canada  and  the  United  States,  where  it  grows  in 
open  woods  on  a rich  soil.  In  early  spring  the  rhizome  sends  up  one  or  two  leaves  and 
a slender  scape  about  10-15  Cm.  (4  or  6 inches)  high,  bearing  a single  large  white  flower. 
The  leaves  do  not  attain  their  full  size  until  after  the  petals  have  been  shed  in  April  or 
May,  and  are  then  about  75  Mm.  (3  inches)  long  and  10-12  Cm.  (4  or  5 inches)  wide, 
heart-shaped  at  the  base,  reniform  in  outline,  palmately  seven-  or  nine-veined,  and  divided 
into  the  same  number  of  obtuse  lobes ; the  upper  surface  is  of  a light-green,  the  lower 
surface  glaucous,  whitish,  and  the  veins  often  reddish.  The  calyx  consists  of  two 
fugacious  sepals,  and  the  corolla  of  about  eight  oblong  and  obtuse  petals ; the  stamens 
are  in  several  rows,  and  the  fruit,  which  ripens  in  June,  is  an  oblong  two-valved  capsule 
tapering  at  each  end  and  containing  numerous  roundish  seeds  with  a strongly  crested 
raphe.  All  parts  of  the  plant  contain  a bright  orange-red  juice,  but  only  the  rhizome  is 
employed. 

Description. — The  rhizome  is  5-10  Cm.  (2  to  4 inches)  long  and  about  1 Cm. 
( i inch)  thick,  horizontal,  slightly  branched,  cylindrical,  and  faintly  annulate  by  leaf- 

scars.  In  the  fresh  state  it  is  fleshy,  and 
emits,  when  wounded,  a dark-red  juice  ; after 
drying  it  is  reddish-brown  externally,  longi- 
tudinally wrinkled,  and  breaks  with  a short 
fracture  of  a slight  waxy  appearance.  Trans- 
verse section  shows  a thin  bark,  which  is  in 
width  about  one-twelfth  the  diameter  of  the 
rhizome,  a very  fine  cambium-line,  and  a 
white  mealy  inner  portion,  in  which  the  cir- 
cle of  about  eighteen  small  fibro-vascular 
bundles  is  not  readily  distinguished,  and  which  contains  a large  number  of  small  red 
resin-cells  ; the  interior  tissue  is  not  unfrequently  of  a nearly  uniform  brownish-red  color, 
due  probably  to  the  manner  in  which  the  drug  was  dried.  The  thin  rootlets  are  mainly 
on  the  lower  side,  and  in  commercial  bloodroot  are  mostly  broken  off,  short  remnants  or 
scars  only  remaining ; they  have  a bark  about  equal  in  thickness  to  the  ligneous  cord 
and  contain  scattered  red  resin-cells.  Bloodroot  yields  a pale  grayish-red  irritating  pow- 
der, and  has  a slight  heavy  odor  and  a persistent  bitter  and  acrid  taste. 

Constituents. — Dr.  Dana  (1828)  obtained  from  bloodroot  the  alkaloid  sanguinarine , 
which  Probst  considered  identical  with  the  alkaloid  chelerythrine  discovered  by  him 
(1830)  in  celandine  (see  page  445).  The  identity  of  the  two  was  conclusively  proven 
by  Shiel  (1855).  Riegel  (1845),  and  afterward  Gibb  (1860),  isolated  a second  alkaloid, 
which  they  named  porphyroxine,  from  its  supposed  identity  with  a constituent  of  opium 
formerly  known  by  that  name.  It  was  obtained  by  exhausting  the  rhizome  with  dilute 
acetic  acid,  precipitating  the  sanguinarine  with  ammonia,  neutralizing  the  filtrate  with 
acetic  acid,  and  precipitating  with  tannin  ; on  decomposing  the  precipitate  with  either 
lime  or  potassa  and  exhausting  with  ether,  white,  tasteless  crystals  are  stated  to  be 
obtained,  which  yield  with  acids  bitter  and  neutral  salts.  In  1856,  E.  S.  Wayne 
announced  the  discovery  of  a third  alkaloid,  named  puccine  by  Gibb.  It  was  said  to 
remain  dissolved  in  ether  after  precipitating  the  ethereal  solution  of  crude  sanguinarine 
with  sulphuric  acid.  L.  C.  IIopp  (1875)  proved  it  to  be  sanguinarine  held  in  solution  as 
sulphate  by  a trace  of  resin  ; he  also  found  sanguinarinic  acid  of  Newbold  (1866)  to  be  a 
mixture  of  impure  citric  and  malic  acids. 


SANG  VIS. 


1409 


Sanguinarine , C19H17N04,  is  obtained  from  the  syrupy  alcoholic  extract  of  sanguinaria 
by  digesting  it  with  dilute  hydrochloric  acid,  filtering  from  the  resin,  precipitating  by 
ammonia,  dissolving  the  crude  alkaloid  in  ether,  and  passing  hydrochloric  acid  gas  into 
the  solution,  when  sanguinarine  hydrochlorate  is  precipitated.  The  pure  alkaloid  is 
in  white  verrucose  or  needle-shaped  crystals,  which  are  sternutatory,  freely  soluble  in 
ether  and  alcohol,  and  yield  with  acids  bright-red  salts  having  a bitter  and  persistently 
acrid  taste,  like  the  alcoholic  solution  of  the  alkaloid.  The  second  alkaloid  observed  by 
Biegel  was  obtained  by  F.  W.  Carpenter  (1879)  as  a yellow  mass  which  acquired  with 
strong  sulphuric  acid  a deep-purple  color,  intensified  on  the  addition  of  potassium  dichro- 
mate, the  reaction  resembling  that  produced  by  these  two  reagents  with  strychnine.  F.  L. 
Slocum  crystallized  the  same  alkaloid  from  ether  in  colorless,  slightly  bitter  needles  of  an 
alkaline  reaction,  and  in  this  pure  state  yielding  with  sulphuric  acid  a deep-purple  color, 
which,  however,  was  not  permanent,  and  changed  with  chromate  to  yellow.  It  exists  in 
minute  quantity  only,  and  is  not  precipitated  by  ammonia.  Slocum  examined  also  the 
red  resinous  matter  which  is  separated  by  alcohol  into  two  portions,  both  of  which,  when 
fused  with  potassa,  yielded  protocatechuic  acid.  C.  W.  Dodd  (1882)  found  in  100  parts 
of  air-dry  bloodroot  10.9  moisture,  7.9  ash,  2.7  benzene  extract,  19.9  alcohol,  extract  16.2 
water  extract,  7.2  starch,  and  1.11  sanguinarine. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparations. — Acetum  sanguinarine,  U.  S.  1880. — Take 
of  Bloodroot,  in  No.  30  powder,  10  parts  (1  oz.  av.)  ; Diluted  Acetic  Acid  sufficient  to 
moisten  the  powder  with  5 parts  (1  oz.  av.)  of  the  acid.  Pack  into  a conical  glass  per- 
colator, and  gradually  pour  upon  it  diluted  acetic  acid  until  100  parts  (10  oz.  av.)  are 
obtained. 

Action  and  Uses. — In  non-nauseating  doses  it  increases  the  appetite  and  improves 
digestion.  In  man,  sanguinarine,  in  doses  of  from  i to  i grain  continued  for  several 
days,  occasions  nausea  and  sometimes  vomiting,  and  a manifest  reduction  of  the  pulse- 
rate.  1 grain  in  solution,  repeated  at  intervals  of  ten  minutes,  may  excite  vomiting  after 
the  third  dose. 

The  physiological  action  of  sanguinaria  bears  no  relation  to  its  medicinal  uses.  In  all 
cases  in  which  the  former  is  developed  the  depressing  operation  of  the  medicine  is  distress- 
ing and  unsafe.  Its  value  is  only  demonstrated,  if  at  all,  by  its  long-continued  use  in 
moderate  doses,  so  as  to  produce  its  so-called  deobstruent  or  alterative  effects.  These  are 
supposed  to  be  exhibited  when  it  is  used  in  the  treatment  of  atonic  dyspepsia , with 
“ torpor  of  the  liver,”  but  in  such  cases  the  cure  is  probably  due,  in  some  degree,  to  the 
simultaneous  regulation  of  the  diet,  etc.  and  abstinence  from  active  medication.  Possibly 
in  protracted  muscular  rheumatism  the  medicine  may  deserve  a trial.  It  has  been  used  in 
bronchitis , croup,  and  asthma,  and  has  seemed  to  be  most  useful  when  the  spasmodic 
element  predominated.  Hence  its  utility  in  spasmodic  croup — i.  e.  spasmodic  laryngitis. 

Powdered  bloodroot  has  been  employed  as  a sternutatory  and  as  a stimulant  for  indo- 
lent and  unhealthy  ulcers.  The  latter  effect  probably  led  to  its  being  used  by  quacks  in 
the  treatment  of  cancer.  The  fresh  juice  of  the  root  is  said  to  cure  warts,  and  an  infu- 
sion or  decoction  of  the  root  has  been  applied  to  chronic  scaly  and  pustular  eruptions. 

The  dose  of  sanguinaria  as  an  emetic  is  Gm.  0.60-4  (gr.  x-lx).  An  infusion  made 
with  the  bruised  root  Gm.  32  in  Gm.  250  (§j  in  Oss)  of  boiling  water  mary  be  given  in 
tablespoonful  doses  at  short  intervals.  The  official  preparation  represents  the  medicine 
fully. 

Acetum  sanguinaria  ( Pharm . 1880). — Whatever  utility  this  preparation  may  have 
displayed  as  a gargle  in  scarlatinous  sore  throat  was  probably  due  to  its  menstruum.  It 
would  be  folly  to  employ  it  as  an  emetic  when  other  and  more  certain  emetics  are  at 
hand  ; and  there  is  nothing  to  show  that  as  an.  expectorant,  which  it  is  reputed  to  be,  its 
beneficent  action  outweighs  its  harsh  operation  and  its  depressing  action  on  the  heart  and 
nervous  system.  Its  dose  as  an  emetic  is  stated  to  be  Gm..  12—16  (fisiij-iv),  and  as  an 
alterative  and  expectorant,  from  Gm.  1-2  (gtt.  xv-xxx). 

SANGUIS.— Blood. 

Sang,  Fr. ; Blut,  G. ; Sangre,  Sp. 

Description  and  Composition. — Blood  is  an  animal  fluid  which  passes  to  all 
organs  through  the  circulation.  In  the  inferior  animals  it  is  of  a white  color,  while  in 
the  vertebrated  animals  it  is  red,  and  the  red  color  is  brighter  in  blood  taken  from  the 
arteries  than  in  that  contained  in  the  veins.  Blood  is  not  a simple  solution  of  different 
compounds,  but  it  is  a kind  of  emulsion  containing  chiefly  blood-corpuscles  in  suspension. 

89 


1410 


SANGUIS. 


According  to  Lehmann,  1000  parts  of  corpuscles  contain  688  water,  16.75  haematin,  282.22 
globulin,  2.31  fat,  2.60  extractive  matter,  and  8.12  mineral  constituents,  among  which 
potassium  salts  predominate.  The  red  color  of  blood-corpuscles  is  due  to  hemoglobin, 
which  under  some  conditions  may  be  obtained  in  well-defined  crystals,  as  was  shown  by 
B.  Reichardt  (1847)  ; acids  and  alkalies  decompose  it  into  the  red  coloring  matter  haema- 
tin, which  contains  iron  and  may  likewise  be  crystallized,  and  into  the  albuminoid  com- 
pound globulin.  1000  parts  of  the  liquid  portion  of  blood  contain  902.90  parts  of  water, 
4.05  fibrin,  78.84  albumen,  1.72  fat,  3.92  extractive  matter,  and  8.55  mineral  constituents, 
among  which  sodium  chloride  predominates.  The  saline  constituents  both  of  the  cor- 
puscles and  liquid  are,  besides  iron,  calcium  and  magnesium  phosphates,  and  potassium 
and  sodium  chlorides,  phosphates,  and  sulphates.  The  composition  of  blood  varies, 
however,  in  different  animals,  and  in  the  same  animal  if  taken  from  different  vessels. 
When  left  to  itself,  blood  coagulates,  forming  a clot , cruor , which  separates  from  the  liquid 
portion,  called  serum.  The  clot  consists  of  the  fibrin,  which  has  become  insoluble,  and  of 
the  corpuscles,  while  the  serum  is  chiefly  a solution  of  albumen  and  salts.  According  to 
Boussingault,  the  red  color  of  the  blood  of  the  higher  animals  is  not  due  to  iron,  since  the 
white  blood  of  mollusks  contains  about  the  same  amount  of  iron,  varying  in  different 
animals  between  about  0.04  and  0.06  part  in  1000. 

Bullock’s  blood  has  been  used  in  the  fresh  state,  and,  according  to  W.  C.  Bakes  (1872),  . 
also  evaporated  to  an  extract  (extractum  sanguinis),  and,  if  subsequently  powdered,  under 
the  name  of  pulvis  sanguinis. 

Action  and  Uses. — We  shall  not  in  this  place  discuss  the  nutritive  qualities  of 
blood,  but  only  recall  the  fact  that,  in  spite  of  the  wise  Mosaic  law  against  eating  blood, 
it  is  more  or  less  used  as  food  in  several  countries.  We  remember  to  have  observed 
many  years  ago  in  the  Roman  market  cakes  of  coagulated  blood  sold  openly  as  food. 
They  disagreeably  recalled  the  basins  of  human  blood  we  had  then  but  recently  seen 
shed  in  hospital  practice. 

In  1873,  Mr.  Vacher,  an  English  health-officer,  having  learned  that  the  serum  of  the 
blood  of  sheep  and  oxen  was  regarded  by  the  journeymen  in  certain  slaughter-houses  as 
“ a remedy  of  great  value  for  the  treatment  of  scrofulous  children,  and  as  little  less  than 
a specific  in  cases  of  seat-  and  tape-worms,”  undertook  some  experiments  with  it  which 
confirmed  him  in  his  impression  of  its  efficacy.  When  employed  in  the  Birkenhead 
Borough  Hospital  it  was  found  “ most  successful  in  cases  of  thread-worms,  and  less  so  in 
those  of  Ascaris  lumbricoides  ; it  failed  almost  entirely  in  taenia.”  It  would  seem  unneces- 
sary to  introduce  a new  remedy  for  these  entozoa  when  so  many  efficient  anthelmintics 
are  already  available,  especially  when  the  proposed  medicine  is  difficult  to  obtain  in  a 
fresh  and  sound  condition  and  is  of  doubtful  value.  Defibrinated  blood,  dried  and  pow- 
dered, has  been  used  with  advantage  in  various  conditions  of  debility  depending  upon 
exhausting  discharges,  anemia , dyspepsia , chronic  diseases,  etc.,  especially  in  infants  and 
children  (Guernder,  Therap.  Gaz .,  viii.  49 ; Dujardin-Beaumetz,  Bull,  et  Mem.  Soc.  de 
Therap.,  1885,  p.  125  ; Stewart,  Proc.  Phila.  Co.  Med.  Soc.,  xi.  115).  Even  in  its  liquid 
state  such  blood  has  been  given  internally  with  alleged  success  in  chlorosis  by  Bloukvajeff 
( Centralbl.  f Therap.,  vi.  734).  It  is  claimed  by  Dr.  Andrew  H.  Smith  (Amer.  Jour,  of 
Med.  Sci .,  July,  1879,  p.  242)  that  an  enema  of  defibrinated  blood  is  almost  wholly 
absorbed ; that  it  confines  rather  than  irritates  the  bowels,  as  a rule  ; and  that  “ in  favor- 
able cases  it  quickens  nutrition  more  than  other  remedies.”  Sansom  ( Lancet , Feb.  16, 
1881)  reports  favorably  of  the  method,  stating  that  in  urgent  cases  2 or  3 ounces  of  the 
liquid  should  be  injected  into  the  rectum  every  two  or  three  hours,  and  that  in  chronic 
cases,  in  which  it  supplements  gastric  alimentation,  from  2 to  6 ounces  should  be  admin- 
istered twice  a day.  Moller  has  confirmed  this  experience  by  his  own  in  several  cases  of 
extreme  debility  and  anaemia.  In  one  instance  the  weight  of  the  patient  and  the  propor- 
tion of  red  elements  in  the  blood  largely  increased  under  the  treatment  (Archives  gen.,  Dec. 
1882,  p.  731).  Before  the  administration  the  intestine  should  be  washed  out  with  tepid 
water  slightly  salted,  and  it  is  recommended  that  10  or  15  grains  of  chloral  hydrate 
should  be  added  to  every  enema.  Defibrinated  blood  has  been  injected  into  the  perito- 
neal cavity,  and  also  hypodermically,  in  cases  of  extreme  exhaustion  (Bareggi,  Medical 
Record , xxiv.  239).  According  to  Benczor  (Amer.  Jour,  of  Med.  Sci.,  July,  1885),  it 
may  be  injected  subcutaneously  without  occasioning  pain  or  inflammation,  and  it  promptly 
increases  the  quantity  of  haemoglobin  in  the  blood.  This  method  has  been  employed  by 
Ziemssen  ( Centralbl.  f.  Therap .,  iii.  159),  Westphalen  (ibid.,  vii.  279),  Silbermann  (Archives 
gin.,  Oct.  1885,  p.  496),  and  others  in  anaemia  from  haemorrhage  and  other  discharges, 
and  from  leukaemia  and  pernicious  anaemia,  as  well  as  from  chronic  diseases  of  various  sorts. 


SANICULA.—. SANTA LUM  RUBRUM. 


1411 


In  favorable  cases  an  immediate  revival  follows  the  operation,  the  skin  and  mucous  mem- 
branes become  less  pale,  there  is  greater  activity  of  body  and  mind,  the  sleep  and  appe- 
tite improve,  and  the  proportion  of  red  corpuscles  in  the  blood  is  increased.  The  primary 
influence  of  the  operation  gradually  declines,  but  leaves  a certain  permanent  gain  of 
strength.  Infusion  is  performed  with  a glass  syringe  holding  about  Cc.  25  (fgvj),  and 
provided  with  a canula  larger  than  belongs  to  the  ordinary  hypodermic  instrument.  It 
should  be  thoroughly  disinfected,  as  well  as  the  hands  of  the  operator,  and  after  the 
operation  the  injected  liquid  should  be  diffused  by  appropriate  pressure  on  the  skin. 

HvEMOGALLOL  and  H^emol,  the  former  a preparation  of  blood  with  pyrogallol,  and 
the  latter  of  blood  with  zinc,  have  been  recommended  in  anaemia  and  chlorosis,  but  there 
is  no  evidence  of  their  advantages  over  the  ordinary  forms  of  animal  food. 

SANICULA.-Sanicle. 

Sanicle , Fr. ; Sanikel,  G. ; Sanicula , Sp. 

Nat.  Ord. — Umbelliferse,  Saniculeae. 

Description. — The  genus  Sanicula  is  composed  of  perennial  herbs  with  palmately 
divided  and  coarsely  serrate  radical  leaves  and  irregular  or  compound  umbels,  having 
polygamous,  rather  capitate  flowers,  and  few-leaved  involucres  and  involucels.  The  fruit 
is  nearly  globular,  and  has  the  mericarps  closely  united,  without  prominent  ribs,  covered 
with  hooked  prickles,  and  containing  five  oil-tubes. 

San.  marilandica,  Linne , has  the  radical  and  stem-leaves  five-  or  seven-parted  and 
the  divisions  rather  narrow  ; the  staminate  flowers  are  numerous  and  on  slender  pedicels 
(the  variety  canadensis  has  few  and  short-pedicel  led  sterile  flowers)  and  the  perfect  flowers 
have  elongated  and  recurved  styles.  The  blackish  root  and  the  leaves  are  nearly  inodor- 
ous, and  have  a somewhat  bitter  and  persistent  acrid  taste.  These  American  plants  are 
in  some  localities  known  as  black  snakeroot  and  pool-root. 

Constituents. — C.  J.  Houck  (1884)  obtained  from  the  air-dry  root  8 per  cent,  of 
ash,  volatile  oil,  resinous  matter,  tannin,  and  other  common  constituents.  The  ethereal 
extract  is  very  aromatic  and  has  a burning,  acrid  taste. 

Allied  Plants. — Sanicula  europa:a,  LinnS,  is  official  as  sanicle , Fr.  Cod.  The  root  is  several- 
headed, branched,  and  dark-brown.  The  radical  leaves  are  palmately  five-parted,  and  the  obovate 
wedge-shaped  segments  again  three-lobed.  The  stem-leaves  are  few  in  number  and  small.  The 
perfect  flowers  are  sessile  and  the  staminate  flowers  on  very  short  stalks. 

Astrantia  major,  Linne , is  a European  plant,  the  root  of  which  is  known  as  black  sanicle, 
and  is  occasionally  used  as  radix  imperatoriae  nigrce.  It  consists  of  an  oblique  annulated 
rhizome  about  10  Cm.  (4  inches)  long  and  6 Mm.  inch)  thick,  externally  brown-black,  inter- 
nally whitish,  and  of  fragile,  shrivelled  rootlets  having  a similar  color  ; it  resembles  the  roots  of 
the  preceding  plants. 

Action  and  Uses. — Nothing  appears  to  have  been  recently  added  to  the  often- 
repeated  statements  respecting  the  American  species,  that  the  aborigines  of  this  country 
used  sanicle  in  syphilis  and  diseases  of  the  lungs,  and  that  some  physicians  affirmed  its 
virtues  in  chorea  and  intermittent  fever.  S.  europaea  has  an  acrid,  astringent,  and  some- 
what bitter  taste,  and  is  popularly  employed  in  Germany  and  France  as  a remedy  for 
profuse  haemorrhages  from  the  lungs,  bowels,  uterus,  or  urinary  organs,  and  for  the  cure 
of  diarrhoea , dysentery , and  leucorrhoea , and  externally  as  an  application  to  wounds , bruises , 
etc.  The  fresh  juice  of  the  plant  is  prescribed  in  doses  of  Gm.  16  (^ss)  or  more,  and 
a vinous  infusion  of  it  is  also  given  internally. 

SANTALUM  RUBRUM,  U.  S.— Red  Saunders. 

Pterocarpi  lignum , Br. ; Lignum  santalinum  rubrum. — Red  sandal-wood , E. ; Santal 
rouge , Fr.  Cod. ; Rothes  Sandelholz , G. ; San  dal o rojo , Sp. 

The  wood  of  Pterocarpus  santalinus,  Linne  filius.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 82. 

Nat.  Ord. — Leguminosae,  Papilionaceae. 

Origin. — This  species  is  a small  or  medium-sized  tree,  with  a trunk  of  30  Cm.  (1  foot) 
or  more  in  diameter.  The  leaves  are  pinnately  trifoliate,  with  orbicular  ovate  emarginate 
leaflets.  The  flowers  are  small,  yellow,  and  in  lax  racemes.  The  pod  is  roundish,  sickle- 
shaped, winged,  and  contains  one  or  two  seeds.  It  grows  wild  only  in  the  Madras  Presi- 
dency, but  is  cultivated  in  Southern  India. 

Description. — Bed  sandal-wood  is  met  with  in  commerce  in  hard  and  heavy  billets, 
which  are  deprived  of  the  light-colored  sap-wood,  are  externally  of  a dark-brown  or  red- 
dish-brown color,  and  split  irregularly  and  coarsely  splintery  in  a longitudinal  direction. 


1412 


SANTONICA. 


If  cut  transversely,  it  is  of  a somewhat  variegated  appearance,  the  circles  being  alternately 
rather  broad  and  dark  brown-red  and  narrow  and  lighter  colored.  The  medullary  rays 
appear  as  delicate  red  radiating  lines.  In  the  shops  the  wood  is  usually  found  in  chips 
or  in  a coarse  and  irregular  powder  of  a brown-red  color,  nearly  inodorous  and  having  a 
scarcely  perceptible  astringent  taste.  A red  resinous  mass  exudes  from  the  wood  on  heat- 
ing it.  Red  saunders  is  distinguished  from  other  red-colored  woods  by  the  characters 
given,  and  by  means  of  water,  which  is  not  colored  by  it ; it  imparts  a deep-red  color  to 
alcohol,  aud  this  tincture  acquires  a dark-violet  color  on  the  addition  of  ferric  chloride. 

Constituents. — The  coloring  principle  of  red  saunders  is  santalic  acid  or  santalin , 
Ci5H1405,  which  may  be  obtained,  according  to  Leo  Meier  (1849),  by  precipitating  the 
tincture  with  lead  acetate,  washing  the  precipitate  with  hot  alcohol,  and  decomposing 
it  with  hydrogen  sulphide  in  the  presence  of  alcohol.  Santalic  acid  forms  microscopic 
needles  of  a beautiful  red  color,  is  inodorous  and  tasteless,  melts  at  104°  C.  (219.2° 
F.),  is  insoluble  in  water,  but  dissolves  in  concentrated  sulphuric  acid  with  a deep-red,  in 
alkalies  with  a violet,  in  alcohol  with  a blood-red,  and  in  ether  with  a yellow,  color ; it  is 
soluble  in  the  volatile  oils  of  cinnamon,  cloves,  bergamot,  and  bitter  almond,  but  is  insol- 
uble in  most  other  volatile  and  fixed  oils.  The  coloring  matter,  as  obtained  by  Franch- 
imont  (1879),  was  amorphous,  had  the  composition  C17H1606,  and  yielded  resorcin  and 
acetic  acid  when  fused  with  potassa.  L.  Meier  (1849)  obtained  several  other  compounds, 
which  appear  to  be  decomposition-products.  Weidel  (1870)  obtained  0.5  per  cent,  of 
colorless  and  inodorous  scaly  crystals  of  santal , C8H603,  which  resemble  benzoic  acid  in 
appearance,  but  are  tasteless;  they  are  insoluble  in  water,  carbon  disulphide,  chloroform, 
and  benzene,  sparingly  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  ammonia,  and  alkali  carbonates,  but  freely 
soluble  in  potassa  and  soda,  these  solutions  turning  yellow,  red,  and  green.  The  alcoholic 
solution  becomes  red  with  ferric  chloride.  Cazeneuve’s  pterocarpin.  C17H1605  (1875),  is 
likewise  colorless  and  crystalline,  but  is  soluble  in  ether,  chloroform,  and  carbon  disul- 
phide. Red  saunders  is  free  from  gallic  acid,  but  appears  to  contain  a minute  quantity 
of  tannic  acid,  which  has  not  been  further  examined. 

Uses. — Red  sandal-wood  has  no  medicinal  virtues,  and  is  used  only  as  a coloring 
agent. 


Fig.  254. 


SANTONICA,  U.  S.,  Br. -Santonica. 

Flores  rinse,  P.  Gr. ; Semen  rinse,  s.  contra,  s.  sanctum,  s.  santonici. — Levant  wormseed, 
E.  ; Semen-contra,  Barbotine,  Semencine , Fr.  Cod. ; Wurmsamen,  Zittwersamen,  Gr.  ; Yan- 
tonica , Sp. 

The  unexpanded  flowers  of  Artemisia  pauciflora,  Weber.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med. 
Plants,  157. 

Nat.  Ord. — Composite,  Senecionideae. 

Origin. — Levant  wormseed  is  obtained  from  Asia,  and  appears  to  be  mainly  if  not 
exclusively  collected  in  the  northern  part  of  Turkestan,  and  to  be  sent  to  the  great  fair 

at  Nishnei-Novgorod,  and  thence  to  St.  Petersburg  and 
Western  Europe.  Berg  characterized  the  plant  botanically 
from  the  commercial  drug,  Artemisia  Cina,  Berg , and  Will- 
komm  (1872)  described  under  the  same  name  a plant  brought 
from  Turkestan;  but  the  flower-heads  of  this  plant  do  not 
entirely  resemble  the  wormseed  of  trade,  in  that  they  have 
fewer  scales  {Pharmacographioi) . Fliickiger  and  Hanbury  con- 
sider the  drug  to  be  obtained  from  the  plant  mentioned 
above,  which  is  identical  with  A.  Lercheana,  Karel  et  Kiril , 
A.  maritima,  var.  pauciflora,  Ledebour,  and  A.  pauciflora, 
Weber.  The  typical  form  of  A.  maritima,  Linne,  grows  in 
salt  marshes  in  Western  Europe,  extends  under  various 
forms  eastward  to  Western  Asia,  and  has  tomentose  flower- 
heads  with  about  eighteen  scales. 

Description. — Levant  wormseed  consists  of  unexpanded 
flower-heads,  which  are  about  2-3  Mm.  (yL  to  £ inch)  long  and  1 Mm.  (-J§-  inch)  wide, 
oblong-ovoid  in  shape,  obtuse  at  both  ends,  smooth,  somewhat  shining,  and  of  a grayish- 
green  color,  changing  to  brownish-green  on  exposure  to  light.  The  involucre  is  densely 
imbricate,  and  consists  of  twelve  to  eighteen  keeled  scales,  of  which  the  lower  ones  are 
smallest  and  ovate  in  shape,  and  the  oblong  upper  ones  have  a scarious  margin  and  are 
dotted  with  numerous  minute  yellowish  glands.  The  florets  are  four  or  five  in  number, 


Santonica:  head  and! longitudinal 
section,  magnified  10  diameters. 


SANTONINUM. 


1413 


but  undeveloped  and  minute.  The  drug  has  a strong  peculiar  odor  and  a bitter  camplior- 
aceous  and  disagreeable  taste,  and  frequently  contains  fragments  of  the  thin  peduncles 
and  of  linear  leaves.  r 

Constituents. — Levant  wormseed  has  been  frequently  examined,  and  found  to  con 
tarn  as  active  principles  about  U or  2 per  cent,  of  a crystalline  body,  santonin  (see  below) 
and  1 or  2 per  cent.,  of  volatile  oil  ; also  resin  and  various  other  less  important  constitu- 
ents. Oil  of  Levant  wormseed  is  pale-yellow,  limpid,  has  the  density  0.92,  commences  to 
a*  a.bout  1?°°  C-  (338°  F.),  is  readily  soluble  in  ether  and  alcohol,  and,  according  to 
Volkel,  is  a mixture  of  various  oxygenated  compounds,  of  which  Ilirzel  (1854)  distin 
guished  cinsebene,  cinvebene  camphor , and  others.  Kraut  (1862)  found  it  to  consist  mainly 
of  cinseol,  which  was  found  also  in  01.  Cajuputi  (cajuputtol)  and  01.  eucalypti  (euca- 
lyptol)  and  01.  rosmarini.  (For  description  see  Eucalyptol.) 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Levant  wormseed  is  the  source  of  santonin. 

Extractum  cin^.  Exhaust  the  powdered  drug  with  ether  or  with  a mixture  of  equal 
parts  of  ether  and  alcohol  ( P . G.  1872),  and  evaporate  the  tincture  until  the  ether  has 
been  completely  dissipated,  F.  Cod . (or  to  the  consistence  of  a soft  extract  P.  G .).  The 
yield  is  about  20  or  25  per  cent.  The  extract  is  of  a green  or  green-brown  color,  and  on 
keeping  becomes  granular,  depositing  crystals  of  santonin.  It  should  be  well  agitated 
before  dispensing  it.  & 

Allied  Drugs.— The  unexpanded  flower-heads  of  a species  of  Artemisia,  supposed  by  some  to 
be  clem  ed  from  A.  ramosa,  Smith , have  sometimes  entered  commerce  from  North-western  Africa 
and  are  known  as  Barbary  wormseed.  This  consists  of  roundish-ovate  flower-heads  having  a 
grayish-brown  color,  covered  with  a whitish  down,  and  mixed  with  numerous  fragments  of 
peduncles  and  of  leaves ; the  outer  scales  are  roundish  and  the  inner  ones  ovate.  Another 
variety  has  occasionally  been  observed  in  Europe  and  described  as  Indian  wormseed.  It  is  only 
about  one-half  the  size  of  the  official  drug,  and  is  hairy  and  of  a more  yellowish  color.  We 
have  repeatedly  observed  American  wormseed  to  be  sold  in  place  of  santonica,  to  which  it  bears 
no  resemblance  (see  page  446).  ’ 


Action  cind  Uses.  This  medicine  was  well  known  to  the  ancients,  but  was  intro- 
duced anew  into  Europe  by  the  Crusaders,  and  has  ever  since  been  employed  as  an 
anthelmintic  (Guermonprez,  Bull,  de  Therap.,  cii.  89).  After  the  discovery  and  isolation 
of  santonin  the  proximate  principle  which  the  “ seeds  ” depend  upon  for  their  vir- 
tues they  became  less  used  than  formerly.  They  were  then  held  to  be  stomachic  in 
small  doses,  general  stimulants  of  the  circulatory  and  nervous  systems  in  larger  doses 
and  m still  larger  quantities  were  found  to  produce  gastric  oppression,  nausea,  vomiting’ 
and  diarrhoea.  Sometimes  they  gave  rise  to  symptoms  of  cerebral  congestion. 

Santonica  is  used  almost  exclusively  as  a vermicide  for  lumbricoid  worms  and  ascarides 
oi  the  rectum,  but  occasionally  for  tape-worm  also.  For  the  last  it  is  of  little  efficacy  • 
or  the  other  parasites  it  is  one  of  the  best  remedies  , and,  according  to  Guermonprez  far 
superior  to  santonin,  not  only  on  account  of  its  vermicide  qualities,  but  because  it  is  less 
apt  to  produce  discolored  vision.  It  is  administered  in  coarse  powder  with  honey  molas- 
ses, or  some  analogous  liquid,  to  which  jalap  may  be  added  for  its  purgative  effect.  The 
dose  is  0.60-4  (gr.  x— lx)  three  times  a day. 


SANTONINUM,  U.  S.,  Br B.  ^.-Santonin. 

Santonine , Fr. ; Santonin , G. ; Santonina , Sp. 

Formula  C15H1803.  Molecular  weight  245.43. 

Preparation.— Santonin  was  discovered  in  1830  simultaneously  by  Kabler  and  by 
Alms,  and  since  that  time  has  been  frequently  examined  by  chemists.  The  process  given 
by  the  British  I harmacopccia  has  been  elaborated  by  the  researches  of  Calloud  Cerutti 
Mialhe,  and  others.  The  santonin  is  extracted  by  boiling  16  parts  of  bruised  santonica 
with  5 parts  of  lime  and  sufficient  water,  and,  after  straining,  repeating  the  operation  with 
^ parts  of  lime.  In  the  process  of  Trommsdorff  (1834)  diluted  alcohol  is  used  in  the 
place  of  water,  and  digesting  instead  of  boiling.  The  lime  and  santonin  forms  a com- 
pound soluble  in  water  and  alcohol,  and  on  concentrating  the  liquors  an  aqueous  solution 
of  calcium  santonin  remains,  contaminated  with  coloring  and  extractive  matter  and  with 
resin  held  in  solution  by  lime.  The  calcium  compounds  are  decomposed  by  either  acetic 
or  hydrochloric  acid,  which  form  freely  soluble  calcium  salts,  and  liberate  the  santonin 
fr£!t  f W h reSI?  and  other  compounds.  The  impure  santonin  thus  obtained  may  be 
a . 10lal  some  0 its  impurities  by  washing  it  with  dilute  ammonia,  or,  without  being 
thus  treated,  may  be  purified  by  recrystallization  from  hot  alcohol,  a little  charcoal  being 

7 o 


1414 


SANTONTNUM. 


used  to  remove  coloring  matter ; the  resin  will  remain  dissolved  in  the  alcohol.  The 
yield  is  14  to  nearly  2 per  cent. 

Properties. — Santonin  crystallizes  in  flat,  rhombic  prisms,  which  are  colorless,  of  a 
pearly  lustre,  and  of  a slightly  bitter  taste,  which  is  gradually  developed,  but  the  solu- 
tions of  santonin  are  persistently  bitter.  When  heated  to  about  170°  C.  (338°  F.)  it 
melts  to  a colorless  liquid,  which,  on  being  slowly  cooled,  becomes  again  crystalline,  but 
when  rapidly  cooled  usually  remains  amorphous  and  gum-like  until  after  it  has  been 
moistened  with  alcohol,  ether,  or  acetic  acid,  or  has  been  heated  again  to  a little  over  40° 
C.  (104°  F.).  When  carefully  heated  in  small  quantities  to  a little  above  its  melting- 
point,  it  sublimes  without  decomposition  in  white  needles  ; but  if  larger  quantities  of  it 
are  heated,  dense  yellowish,  irritating  vapors  are  formed,  condensing  to  a resinous  mass ; 
decomposition  takes  place,  and  at  a higher  heat  santonin  burns  in  the  air  with  a sooty 
flame  and  without  leaving  any  fixed  residue.  Santonin  dissolves  in  about  5000  parts  of, 
and  is  therefore  nearly  insoluble  in  cold  water,  and  requires  250  parts  of  boiling  water 
and  40  parts,  U.  S.  (44  parts,  P.  G.  ),  of  cold  alcohol  for  solution.  Trommsdorff  found 
santonin  to  be  dissolved  at  17.5°  C.  (63.5°  F.)  in  43  parts,  and  at  80°  C.  (176°  F.)  in 
2.7  parts,  of  alcohol  spec.  grav.  0.848,  while  at  the  same  temperatures  280  and  10  parts 
of  an  alcohol  having  the  density  0.928  were  necessary.  Santonin  dissolves  in  72  parts 
(140  parts,  U.  S .)  of  cold  and  42  parts  of  boiling  ether  (Trommsdorff),  and  in  4.35  parts 
(4  parts,  U.  S.,  P.  G .)  of  chloroform  (Schlimpert)  ; these  solutions  have  a neutral  reac- 
tion. It  is  likewise  soluble  in  strong  acetic  acid,  in  volatile  oils,  and  in  warm  olive  oil. 
Santonin  should  be  kept  excluded  from  the  light  or  in  amber-colored  bottles.  Air  has 
no  effect  upon  it,  but  in  the  sunlight  it  acquires  a yellow  color,  and,  according  to  Sestini 
(1864,  1865),  is  converted  into  photo- santonic  acid , C23H3406,  which  is  more  freely  soluble 
in  simple  solvents,  has  a bitter  taste,  when  pure  is  colorless  and  inodorous,  and  melts 
near  65°  C.  (149°  F.).  The  coloring  matter  produced  at  the  same  time  is  of  a resinous 
nature.  Santonin  yields  with  sulphuric  acid  a colorless  solution,  and  is  precipitated  with- 
out alteration  by  water ; but  the  color  of  the  solution  changes  to  yellow,  red,  and  dark- 
brown,  and  then  gives  with  water  red  or  brown  resinous  precipitates  (Trommsdorff). 
Santonin  is  transiently  colored  red  by  hot  alkalies  and  alkaline  earths.  “ With  alcoholic 
solution  of  potassa  it  yields  a scarlet-red  liquid,  which  gradually  becomes  colorless.” — 
U.  S.  “ On  boiling  5 parts  of  santonin  and  4 parts  of  sodium  carbonate  with  60  parts 
of  alcohol  and  20  parts  of  water  the  liquid  has  alternately  a red  and  yellow  color.” — 
P.  G.  After  the  solutions  in  alkalies  or  alkaline  earths  have  become  colorless,  they  yield 
insoluble  precipitates  with  the  salts  of  most  heavy  metals.  According  to  Hesse  (1874), 
these  compounds  are  true  salts,  and  on  liberating  from  them  the  santonic  acid  it  may  be 
obtained  from  the  hot  aqueous  solution  in  white  rhombic  crystals,  which  do  not  turn  yellow 
in  the  light,  are  sparingly  soluble  in  cold  water,  but  are  readily  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether, 
chloroform,  and  glacial  acetic  acid,  and  have  the  composition  C^HgoCV  The  official 
santonin  is  therefore  santonic  anhydride. 

Impurities. — Santonin  has  been  sometimes  adulterated  with  boric  acid,  which 
imparts  to  the  flame  of  alcohol  a green  color,  and  on  being  heated  upon  platinum-foil  is 
left  behind  as  a glass-like  mass,  the  solution  of  which  turns  turmeric-paper  brown. 
Strychnine  has  been  mistaken  for  santonin  ; it  is  readily  detected  by  the  bluish-purple 
color  produced  by  sulphuric  acid  and  a little  potassium  dichromate.  Picric  acid , which 
has  been  mistaken  for  santonin  colored  yellow  by  light,  is  very  bitter,  and  may  be  recog- 
nized by  the  behavior  described  on  page  86. 

Tests. — “ Its  solution  in  cold,  concentrated  sulphuric  acid  is  at  first  colorless  (absence 
of  easily  carbonizable,  organic  substances),  but  after  some  time  turns  yellow,  then  red, 
and  finally  brown.  If  water  be  added  immediately  after  it  is  dissolved  without  color  in 
sulphuric  acid,  it  is  completely  precipitated,  and  the  supernatant  liquid  should  not  have 
a bitter  taste,  nor  should  it  be  altered  upon  the  addition  of  potassium  dichromate  test- 
solution  (absence  of  brucine  or  strychnine),  or  of  mercuric  potassium  iodide  test-solution 
(absence  of  alkaloids  in  general).” — U.  S.  u After  boiling  for  some  time  1 part  of  san- 
tonin with  100  parts  of  water  and  5 parts  of  diluted  sulphuric  acid,  the  filtered  liquid  should 
not  have  a bitter  taste,  and  on  the  addition  of  a few  drops  of  solution  of  potassium  di- 
chromate  should  not  give  a precipitate  (of  yellow  crystalline  strychnine  chromate).” — P • G. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparation. — Trochisci  santonini,  Br.,  P.  G.  The  san- 
tonin lozenges  (U.  S.  1890)  weigh  about  18  grains  and  contain  I grain  of  santonin  and  17 
grains  of  sugar  ; those  of  the  French  Codex  are  colored  by  carmine,  and  contain  0.01  Gm. 
(4  grain)  ; while  those  of  the  P.  G.  (which  does  not  give  a formula)  are  to  contain  0.025 
Gm.  (-|  grain),  and  those  of  the  Br.  P.  1 grain  (total  weight  17  grains). 


SANTONTNUM. 


1415 


Action  and  Uses. — The  most  remarkable  effect  of  medicinal  doses  of  santonin  is 
that  the  whole  field  of  vision  appears  yellow  or  yellowish-green  ; if  the  dose  is  large,  it 
may  be  purplish  or  even  red.  The  effect  seems  to  be  due  to  changed  conditions  of  the 
retina  or  of  the  brain,  and  not,  as  was  formerly  supposed,  to  a staining  of  the  humors 
of  the  eye.  When  given  in  large  doses,  as  5 grains  or  more,  santonin  imparts  to  the 
urine  a deep-saffron  color  and  stains  the  linen  as  bilious  urine  does.  (For  the  distinc- 
tion between  urine  colored  by  santonin  and  that  stained  by  rhubarb  see  Munk,  Virchow’s 
Archiv,  lxxii.  136,  and  between  the  urine  colored  by  santonin  and  that  colored  by  chryso- 
phanic  acid,  see  Amer.  Jour.  Phar .,  lix.  21).  At  the  same  time  it  operates  strongly  as  a 
diuretic.  AVhen  the  urine  grows  alkaline  by  putrefaction  or  is  made  so  by  the  addition 
of  an  alkali,  the  saffron  tint  is  replaced  by  a violet  or  purplish  color.  In  doses  of  3 
grains  santonin  may  occasion  nausea  and  vomiting,  with  abdominal  pain,  thirst,  giddi- 
ness, and  diarrhoea.  (Compare  Labbe,  Practitioner , xxii.  284.)  Within  three  hours  after 
taking  a 5-grain  dose  of  santonin  a man  presented  “ a general  morbilloid  eruption  and  an 
intense  punctiform  rash  on  the  mucous  membrane  of  the  mouth  and  throat  ” (. Practitioner , 
xlii.  127).  Decidedly  poisonous  effects  sometimes  arise  from  doses  which  are  quite  insig- 
nificant in  comparison  with  those  which  some  experimenters  have  taken  without  serious 
inconvenience.  For  example,  a child  six  months  old  was  rendered  amaurotic  for  two 
months  by  a dose  of  5 grains  of  santonin.  In  another  case  2 grains,  given  to  a child  two 
years  old,  occasioned  convulsions,  injection  and  heat  of  the  face  and  head,  twitching  of  the 
eyeballs,  dilatation  of  the  pupils,  foaming  at  the  mouth,  clenching  of  the  teeth,  stertor- 
ous breathing,  and  jerking  of  the  arms.  On  the  morrow  recovery  was  complete.  In  a 
third  case  a healthy  child  of  two  years  swallowed  two  santonin  troches  at  six  o’clock  in 
the  morning.  No  result  appeared  until  four  in  the  afternoon,  when  suddenly  the  muscles 
of  the  left  side  of  the  face  began  to  twitch  and  the  pupils  to  dilate.  Then  clonic  convul- 
sions affected  the  left  side,  beginning  at  the  fingers,  and  these  were  followed  by  muscular 
rigidity  of  the  same  side.  After  a quarter  of  an  hour  the  spasms  subsided,  but  in  the 
course  of  an  hour  were  renewed,  the  voice  meanwhile  becoming  quite  extinct.  The 
spasms  were  at  intervals  repeated  for  several  days,  during  which  the  respiratory  act 
grew  very  feeble  and  artificial  respiration  was  resorted  to  (Becker.  Compare  Iluse- 
mann  and  Hilger,  Die  Pflanzenstoffe , 2te  Aufl.,  S.  1518  ; also  Centralhl.  f.  Ther .,  viii. 
245,  638).  A child  of  five  years  took  5 grains  of  santonin.  She  immediately  com- 
plained of  pain  in  the  stomach  ; in  a minute  or  two  convulsions  came  on,  with  insensi- 
bility. There  was  neither  vomiting  nor  purging.  Death  took  place  in  thirty-five  min- 
utes. Post-mortem,  the  stomach  was  inflamed  in  patches,  and  the  duodenum  through- 
out. The  right  heart  was  contracted  and  contained  no  blood  ; the  left  contained  about  1 
ounce  of  black  fluid  blood  (Kilner,  St.  Thomas's  Hospital  Reports , N.  S.,  x.  247,  where 
the  tests  for  santonin  are  discussed).  In  other  cases  it  is  not  the  nervous  but  the  diges- 
tive apparatus  that  is  chiefly  affected,  and  violent  vomiting  and  purging,  followed  by  col- 
lapse, produces  an  attack  like  one  of  cholera  morbus.  In  all  the  urine  has  the  character- 
istic color.  Although  recovery  generally  takes  place  after  these  grave  symptoms,  they 
occasionally  terminate  in  death.  These  illustrations  suffice  to  prove  the  necessity  of  cau- 
tion in  the  administration  of  santonin.  (For  other  cases  see  Therap.  Gaz .,  viii.  555;  xi. 
210,  427,  497  ; Centralhl.  f Ther.,  iii.  532.) 

The  chief  practical  value  of  santonin  consists  in  its  power  of  destroying  lumhricoid 
tcorms , and  in  a less  degree  rectal  ascarides.  A single  dose  of  about  2 grains  has  suf- 
ficed to  cause  the  expulsion  of  one  hundred  and  sixty-six  of  the  former  species.  It 
should  be  prescribed  in  doses  not  larger  at  first  than  Gm.  0.06  (gr.  j)  for  adults  and  Gm. 
0.016  (gr.  1)  for  children,  and  ought  to  be  taken  at  night,  both  because  its  action  upon 
the  parasites  is  less  interfered  with  by  food  at  that  time,  and  because  the  yellow  vision 
which  it  may  occasion  will  not  then  be  a source  of  so  much  annoyance.  Early  on  the 
following  day  a dose  of  castor  oil  or  of  some  other  purgative  should  be  given.  As  san- 
tonin in  substance  is  almost  devoid  of  taste  and  smell,  it  may  be  prescribed  with  pow- 
dered sugar  or  in  jelly.  Pastilles  or  troches  of  santonin  made  with  chocolate  are  much 
used  and  are  very  efficient.  Lewin  recommends  that  it  be  administered  in  oil,  which 
prevents  its  absorption  by  the  patient,  but  increases  its  action  as  a vermicide  ( Practi- 
tioner, xxxi.  65).  On  similar  grounds  calcium  santonate  has  been  recommended.  Guer- 
monprez  (Bull,  de  Therap .,  cii.  89)  has  maintained  that  santonin  is  not,  like  santonica,  a 
direct  vermicide — that  it,  on  the  contrary,  excites  lumbricoid  worms  to  violent  action, 
which,  if  they  are  mature,  may  occasion  various  reflex  phenomena,  etc. ; and  he  there- 
fore advises  that  it  should  always  be  associated  with  a purgative.  That  it  possesses 
a special  stimulant  action  in  addition  is  shown  by  the  advantage  following  its  use  in 


1416 


SAPO. 


various  diseases  in  which  it  appears  to  improve  digestion  and  assimilation.  Among  these 
may  be  mentioned  imperfect  and  painful  menstruation  and  the  attendant  debility  (White- 
head,  Lancet , Sept.  6,  1885).  It  has  also  been  employed  with  alleged  advantage  in  the 
treatment  of  whooping  cough , as  a diuretic  in  cases  of  renal  colic , and  for  subacute  and 
chronic  inflammation  of  the  choroid  and  retina , especially  of  an  atrophic  character.  But 
in  none  of  these  affections  has  its  utility  been  fully  demonstrated.  Internal  and  external 
stimulants,  heat,  cold,  and  artificial  respiration,  have  all  been  employed  in  poisoning  by 
santonin , but  of  these  the  last  is  the  only  one  of  positive  value.  Evacuants  should  be 
used  to  remove  any  of  the  drug  remaining  in  the  alimentary  canal,  and  inhalations  of 
ether  to  control  the  spasms. 

SAPO,  U.  S',  Br.,  B.  G.— Soap. 

Savon , Fr. ; Sei/e,  G. 

Preparation. — Soaps  may  be  obtained  by  combining  fatty  acids  (see  page  1094) 
with  alkalies,  but  they  are  generally  prepared  by  boiling  fats  with  a solution  of  caustic 
soda  or  potassa,  when  the  fatty  acids  unite  with  the  alkali,  the  soap  remaining  dissolved 
in  the  water,  together  with  the  glycerin  which  is  liberated  from  the  fat.  The  lye  used  in 
this  operation  is  employed  in  a rather  diluted  state,  is  gradually  added,  and  an  excess  of 
it  is  mostly  used,  since  the  saponification  is  thereby  much  facilitated,  and  the  free  alkali 
may  be  readily  removed  from  the  soap.  The  decomposition  of  the  fats  being  effected  by 
the  gradual  conversion  of  tripalmitin,  etc.  into  di-  and  monopalmitin  before  saponification 
is  completed,  the  boiling  must  be  continued  until  the  mixture  becomes  transparent  and 
rather  tenacious.  The  soap  is  separated  from  the  lye  by  adding  common  salt  to  the 
liquid,  soap  being  insoluble  in  the  solutions  of  most  salts  of  potassium  and  sodium.  If 
potassa  has  been  used  for  saponification,  the  sodium  chloride  serves  also  the  purpose  of 
converting  the  potassa  soap  into  soda  soap.  When  the  soap  has  separated  from  the  liquor 
and  sufficiently  solidified,  it  is  transferred  into  wooden  frames  until  it  is  stiff  enough  to  be 
cut  into  bars,  which  are  exposed  to  the  air  in  a warm  place  until  they  become  hard  and 
dry. 

Properties  and  Composition. — Soaps  are  salts  of  the  fat  acids,  and  if  soluble 
have  an  alkaline  reaction  and  taste.  Commonly,  the  term  “ soap  ” is  restricted  to  such  of 
these  salts  as  contain  potassa  or  soda  as  the  base  and  are  soluble  in  water.  The  com- 
pounds with  earthy  and  metallic  bases  are  chemically  analogous  to  these  soluble  soaps , 
but,  being  insoluble  in  water,  are  often  distinguished  as  insoluble  soaps.  Of  this  latter 
kind  two  are  recognized  by  the  pharmacopoeias — namely,  lead  plaster  (p.  605)  and  lime 
liniment  (p.  940).  Other  insoluble  soaps  are  extensively  employed  for  rendering 
fabrics  waterproof \ and  are  produced  by  impregnating  such  fabrics  first  with  aluminum 
acetate  or  soluble  salts  of  calcium  or  barium,  and  afterward  steeping  them  in  a solution  of 
soap.  The  consistence  of  soap  depends  in  part  on  the  nature  of  the  fat  and  in  part  on 
the  alkali.  Drying  oils  yield  softer  soaps  than  non-drying  oils,  and  of  the  latter  those 
containiug  much  olein  furnish  soaps  which  are  less  hard,  but  more  freely  soluble  in  water 
and  alcohol,  than  those  rich  in  palmitic  or  stearic  acid.  Soda  soaps  are  invariably  harder 
than  potassa  soaps,  which  are  mostly  deliquescent,  and  therefore  remain  soft ; dry  potas- 
sium palmitate  readily  absorbs  from  the  air  about  50  per  cent.,  and  the  oleate  about  160 
per  cent.,  of  moisture,  while  the  corresponding  sodium  compounds  absorb  only  8 and  12 
per  cent.  Soaps  have  mostly  a white  color  when  pure  ; the  color  and  the  marbled  appear- 
ance of  many  soaps  are  due  either  to  accidental  impurities  or  to  coloring  matter  contained 
in  the  oil,  or  they  are  produced  by  the  intentional  addition  of  coloring  matters  or  of 
metallic  salts,  like  sulphate  of  iron,  in  which  case  the  result  is  due  to  the  presence  of  an 
iron  soap.  Good  soluble  soaps  have  a slight  fatty  but  not  a rancid  odor,  or  they  have  the 
fragrance  of  the  fat  (palm  oil,  etc.)  from  which  they  have  been  made. 

The  well-known  detergent  properties  of  soap  depend  upon  its  decomposition  by  a large 
quantity  of  water  into  acid  and  basic  salts,  of  which  the  latter  contain  about  50  per  cent, 
more  alkali  than  the  former,  and  act  as  solvents  of  fats  and  other  matters ; in  this  respect 
their  action  is  similar  to,  but  milder  than,  that  of  caustic  alkali.  So-called  hard  water  is 
unsuited  for  washing  on  account  of  calcium  or  magnesium  salts  which  are  contained  in 
solution,  and  which  form  insoluble  soaps  by  double  decomposition. 

Examination  and  Valuation. — Soaps  frequently  contain  a large  amount  of 
water — in  some  kinds  40  or  even  50  per  cent.  From  12  to  15  per  cent,  of  water  is 
usually  regarded  as  admissible  for  good  air-dry  Castile  soap.  The  water  is  determined 
from  a weighed  quantity  of  the  soap  reduced  to  thin  shavings,  which  are  exsiccated  at  a 


SAPO. 


1417 


temperature  between  100°  and  110°  C.  (212°  and  230°  F.).  On  treating  the  powdered 
soap  with  benzin  or  benzene  or  with  ether,  any  unsaponified  fat  present  will  be  dis- 
solved, and  on  the  evaporation  of  the  solvent  may  be  weighed ; rosin  oils  and  tar  oils 
sometimes  incorporated  with  soap  are  extracted  by  the  same  solvents.  By  incinerating 
another  portion  of  the  soap  the  soda  may  be  determined  from  the  residue,  and  should  be 
about  10  or  11  per  cent,  for  the  exsiccated  soap  ; if  this  quantity  is  exceeded,  free  alkali 
is  most  likely  present.  The  dry  soap  is  then  dissolved  in  strong  alcohol,  in  which  sodium 
and  potassium  carbonate  are  insoluble,  and,  after  separation  from  the  alcoholic  solution, 
may  be  estimated  by  titration  with  normal  oxalic  acid.  On  passing  carbon  dioxide  into 
the  alcoholic  liquid,  the  caustic  alkali  will  be  precipitated  as  carbonate,  and  may  be 
estimated  as  before.  The  solution  may  now  be  mixed  with  water,  and  again  titrated  with 
an  acid  for  estimating  the  combined  alkali.  By  decomposing  a solution  of  soap  with 
hydrochloric  acid,  washing,  and  collecting  the  fat  acid,  its  weight  may  be  ascertained,  and 
should  be  near  90  per  cent,  of  the  dried  soap.  The  melting-  and  congealing-points  of 
these  mixtures  will  usually  give  some  indication  of  the  nature  of  the  fat  used  for  prepar- 
ing the  soap.  The  acid  liquid  may  be  employed  for  the  determination  of  glycerin  if  pres- 
ent : it  is  concentrated  by  evaporation  and  dried,  care  being  taken  to  prevent  charring  : on 
exhausting  the  saline  residue  with  absolute  alcohol  the  glycerin  will  be  dissolved,  and  on 
evaporating  this  solution  at  about  60°  C.  (140°  F.),  it  will  be  left  behind.  Adulterations 
with  starch,  chalk,  clay,  and  similar  compounds  are  ascertained  by  their  insolubility  in 
hot  water  or  alcohol.  Common  soaps  are  sometimes  mixed  with  resin  soap  (an  alkaline 
solution  of  rosin  being  incorporated)  or  with  alkali  silicate.  There  is  usually  no  difficulty 
in  recognizing  the  presence  of  rosin,  but  we  know  of  no  method  for  accurately  determining 
its  amount.  F.  S.  Gladding  (1882)  recommends  decomposing  the  solution  of  soap  in 
alcoholic  ether  by  powdered  silver  nitrate  ; the  silver  resin  compound  remains  in  solution, 
is  decomposed  by  hydrochloric  acid,  the  solution  evaporated,  and  the  resin  weighed. 
Sodium  silicate  is  insoluble  in  alcohol,  and  the  amount  of  silica  present  may  be  deter- 
mined in  the  usual  way  by  dissolving  this  residue  in  water,  acidulating  with  hydrochloric 
acid,  evaporating  to  dryness,  and  dissolving  the  salts  in  acidulated  water.  Free  alkali 
cannot  be  recognized  by  litmus-paper,  since  soap  solutions  possess  an  alkaline  reaction  ; 
but  if  powdered  soap  is  mixed  with  calomel,  and  the  mixture  is  moistened  with  distilled 
water,  it  will  acquire  a gray  or  blackish  color  in  proportion  to  the  amount  of  free  alkali 
present ; its  solution  in  distilled  water  gives  with  corrosive  sublimate  a white  precipitate, 
which  is  yellowish  or  brownish-red  in  the  presence  of  alkali  or  alkali  carbonate. 

Tests. — “ On  placing  a small  weighed  portion  of  soap,  together  with  about  10  Cc. 
of  alcohol,  in  a tared  beaker  containing  sand,  evaporating  the  resulting  solution  of  the 
soap  to  dryness,  and  drying  the  residue  at  110°  C.  (230°  F.),  the  loss  of  weight  should 
not  exceed  36  per  cent,  (absence  of  an  undue  amount  of  water).  On  dissolving  20  Gm. 
of  soap  in  alcohol,  with  the  aid  of  heat,  transferring  the  undissolved  residue,  if  any,  to 
a filter,  and  washing  it  thoroughly  with  boiling  alcohol,  it  should,  after  drying,  weigh  not 
more  than  0.6  Gm.  (limit  of  sodium  carbonate,  etc.)  ; and  at  least  0.4  Gm.  of  this  should 
be  soluble  in  water  (limit  of  silica  and  other  accidental  impurities).  The  aqueous  (alco- 
holic, P.  6r.)  solution  of  soap  should  remain  unaffected  on  the  addition  of  solution  of 
hydrogen  sulphide  or  ammonium  sulphide  test-solution.” — U.  S.  Some  of  the  compounds 
of  metals  with  fat  acids  are  somewhat  soluble  in  alcohol,  but  they  are  insoluble  in  water  ; 
the  test  given,  therefore,  has  reference  to  the  mixture  or  turbid  solution  in  water,  which 
should  not  be  colored  brown  or  black.  Sodium  stearate  and  palmitate  being  sparingly 
soluble  in  cold  alcohol,  an  adulteration  of  olive-oil  soap  with  such  prepared  from  animal 
fat  is  detected  by  the  latter  separating  in  the  form  of  a jelly  on  the  cooling  of  the  alco- 
holic liquid.  “A  4 per  cent,  alcoholic  solution  should  not  gelatinize  on  cooling  (absence 
of  animal  fats).  If  a solution  of  5 Gm.  of  soap  in  50  Cc.  of  water  be  mixed  with  3 
Cc.  of  decinormal  oxalic-acid  test-solution,  the  subsequent  addition  of  a few  drops  of 
phenolphtalein  test-solution  should  produce  no  pink  or  red  tint  (limit  of  alkalinity).” — 

Medicinal  Soaps. — Sapo,  U.  S.  ; Sapo  durus,  Br. ; Sapo  oleacus,  s.  hispanicus,  s. 
venetus. — Soap,  Hard  soap,  Castile  soap,  E.  ; Savon  blanc  de  Marseille,  Savon  d’Espagne, 
Fr. ; Oelseife,  Spanische  Seife,  G. — It  is  prepared  from  olive  oil  and  soda,  and  should  be 
white  or  grayish-white,  free  from  rancid  odor,  hard,  and  should  not  become  moist  on 
exposure  ; it  should  be  completely  soluble  in  alcohol  and  water,  should  not  impart  an 
oily  stain  to  paper,  and  on  incineration  should  yield  an  ash  which  is  not  deliquescent. 
Mottled  Castile  soap  is  a similar  soap,  which  is  more  or  less  colored  by  the  addition  of  an 
iron  salt ; internally  it  is  white,  mottled  with  black,  changing  to  red-brown  on  exposure. 


1418 


SAPO. 


Sapo  medicatus,  F '.  Cod.,  is  a soda  soap  prepared  from  expressed  almond  oil,  and 
agrees  in  its  principal  characters  with  the  preceding.  The  soap  recognized  under  the 
same  name  by  the  P.  G.  is  a soda  soap  made  with  equal  weights  of  olive  oil  and  lard; 
it  is  required  to  be  free  from  alkali,  and  may  be  used  in  the  preparation  of  opodeldoc. 

Sapo  animalis,  Br. ; Sapo  domesticus. — Curd  soap,  E. ; Savon  animal,  Fr. ; Haus- 
seife,  G. — It  is  made  with  soda  and  a purified  animal  fat  consisting  principally  of  stearin. 
It  resembles  the  preceding ; its  solution  in  boiling  alcohol,  after  cooling,  forms  a trans- 
lucent jelly-like  mass,  which  constitutes  the  basis  of  opodeldoc. 

Sapo  mollis,  TJ.  S.,  Br.;  Sapo  kalinus,  P.  G. ; Sapo  viridis,  U.  S.  1880. — Soft  soap, 
Green  soap,  E. ; Savon  vert,  Fr. ; Kaliseife,  Grime  Seife,  G. — “Linseed  Oil  400  Gm. ; 
Potassa  90  Gm. ; Alcohol  40  Cc. ; Water  a sufficient  quantity.  Heat  the  linseed  oil 
in  a deep,  capacious  vessel,  on  a water-bath  or  steam-bath,  to  a temperature  of  about 
60°  C.  (140°  F.).  Dissolve  the  potassa  in  450  Cc.  of  water,  mix  with  this  the  alcohol, 
and  gradually  add  the  mixture,  under  constant  stirring,  to  the  oil,  continuing  the  heat 
until  a small  portion  of  the  mixture  is  found  to  be  soluble  in  boiling  water  without  the 
separation  of  oily  drops.  Then  allow  the  mixture  to  cool  and  transfer  it  to  suitable 
vessels.  The  potassa  used  in  this  process  should  be  of  the  full  strength  directed  by  the 
Pharmacopoeia  (90  per  cent.).  Potassa  of  any  other  strength,  however,  may  be  used, 
if  a proportionately  larger  or  smaller  quantity  be  taken,  the  proper  amount  for  the  above 
formula  being  ascertained  by  dividing  8100  by  the  percentage  of  absolute  potassa  (potas- 
sium hydroxide)  contained  therein.” — U.  S. 

The  process  of  the  Germ.  Pharm.  is  almost  identical  with  the  foregoing.  Soft  soap  is 
directed  to  be  made  from  olive  oil  (Br.).  Commercial  soft  soap  (Sapo  kalinus  venalis, 
P.  G.)  is  frequently  made  of  fish  oil,  rancid  fats,  etc.,  has  generally  a nauseous  odor,  and 
varies  in  color  from  yellow  or  green  to  black,  pigments  being  sometimes  incorporated. 
Prepared  by  the  above  formula,  it  is  a brownish-yellow,  transparent,  soft,  unctuous  mass, 
of  a slight  but  not  repulsive  odor,  free  from  granular  admixtures.  It  is  stated  to  be 
“ soluble  in  about  5 parts  of  hot  water  to  a nearly  clear  liquid ; also  in  2 parts  of  hot 
alcohol,  without  leaving  more  than  3 per  cent,  of  insoluble  residue”  (U.  S.),  (yellowish- 
green,  and  to  not  impart  an  oily  stain  to  paper,  Br.)  ; it  has  an  alkaline  reaction,  and  when 
incinerated  leaves  a very  deliquescent  ash  of  potassium  carbonate.  It  should  contain  not 
over  40  per  cent,  of  moisture,  but,  being  very  hygroscopic,  generally  contains  more. 
The  granules  frequently  seen  in  the  commercial  article  are  sodium  stearate,  which  sepa- 
rates from  the  jelly-like  mass  ; sometimes  starch,  earthy  carbonates,  or  similar  compounds 
are  added  to  produce  this  appearance. 

Action  and  Uses. — Soap  acts  upon  quadrupeds  (horses  and  dogs)  internally  very 
much  as  it  does  upon  man — i.  e.  as  mildly  laxative  and  as  weakly  antacid  through  its 
alkaline  constituent.  But  it  is  hardly  ever  used  alone  for  these  purposes,  but  rather  to 
dissolve  the  resinous  medicines  along  with  which  it  is  given,  and  thereby  to  quicken  and 
strengthen  their  action.  Pareira  states  that  he  knew  of  an  idiot  who  had  frequently  eaten 
large  lumps  of  soap  without  any  ill  effects,  and  that  he  had  heard  of  a pound  of  it  being 
swallowed  for  a wager. 

Besides  the  use  of  soap  as  a laxative , it  has  been  given  internally  as  a solvent  for  uric 
acid.  Along  with  calcined  egg-shells  (lime)  and  aromatic  bitters  it  formed  a once-famous 
cure  for  gravel : probably  in  this  case  it  acted  by  giving  up  its  acid  to  the  lime  and  liber- 
ating the  soda,  which  then  tended  to  neutralize  the  free  uric  acid  in  the  system.  Soap 
is  one  of  the  best  antidotes  for  acid  poisons,  because  it  is  always  to  be  promptly  obtained, 
and  does  not  itself  act  as  an  irritant.  It  should  be  given  freely  in  the  form  of  soapsuds. 
As  a local  remedy  for  external  injuries  by  acids  or  by  phosphorus  soapsuds  are  efficient 
if  promptly  used. 

As  an  external  remedy  soap  acts  by  modifying  the  condition  of  the  skin ; it  combines 
with  the  fat  of  the  excretions,  arid  removes  them  when  they  have  grown  acid  or  fetid, 
and,  with  them, the  dirt  accumulated  from  without;  it  softens  the  epidermis  and  removes 
its  outer  layers,  and  thus  exposes  the  integument  to  the  vivifying  influence  of  the  air ; 
by  all  of  which  agencies  a healthier  condition  of  it  is  secured.  If  the  soap  be  too 
strongly  alkaline  or  too  little  diluted  with  water,  or  applied  with  too  active  friction,  it 
may  induce  painful  irritation  of  the  skin.  This  is  particularly  the  case  when  there  is 
added  to  the  soap  proper  some  article  intended  to  exert  a specific  action,  as  sulphur,  tar,  etc. 
But  in  general  the  curative  agent  is  used  separately  after  the  skin  has  been  brought  to  a 
proper  condition  by  warm  water  and  soap.  These  remarks  are  particularly  applicable  to 
the  treatment  of  scabies , prurigo,  psoriasis , acne,  and  eczema.  For  this  purpose  soft  soap 
is  greatly  to  be  preferred.  In  Germany,  where  the  treatment  of  itch  with  soft  soap 


SAPONARIA. 


1419 


originated,  it  is  now  nearly  abandoned,  not  only  on  account  of  the  offensive  smell  and 
irritant  properties  of  the  preparation  (green  soap),  but  because  the  speedier  and  more 
agreeable  cure  by  balsam  of  Peru  and  storax  has  superseded  it.  The  stimulant  action 
of  soft  soap  is  also  resorted  to  in  the  treatment  of  ichthyosis  and  of  lupus.  The  semi- 
liquid or  liquid  soaps  have  been  much  used  as  discutients  of  acute  and  chronic  glandular 
swellings,  whether  of  a simple  or  specific  nature,  and  in  serous  effusions  into  joints  (Sena- 
tor, Med.  Record ',  xxii.  711).  A soft  soap  made  with  olive  oil  and  pure  solution  of 
potassa  is  devoid  of  the  offensive  smell  of  ordinary  soft  soap,  and  is  to  be  preferred 
when  patients  are  delicate  or  fastidious,  as  in  the  case  of  ladies  and  children.  It  can  be 
scented  with  an  essential  oil  or  dissolved  in  Cologne-water.  The  ancient  treatment  of 
boils  by  soap  continues  to  be  used.  In  general,  yellow  soap,  mixed  with  sugar  and  spread 
on  leather  or  muslin,  is  applied  to  the  part.  So  far  from  irritating  it  and  causing  greater 
pain,  this  remedy,  when  promptly  resorted  to,  lessens  the  pain  materially  and  hastens 
suppuration. 

Under  the  name  of  “ Mollin  ” a soft  soap  has  been  proposed  which  is  supposed  to  pro- 
mote the  cutaneous  absorption  of  mercury,  iodine,  chrysarobin,  iodoform,  etc.  when 
applied  by  friction  (Centrcdbl.  f.  d.  g.  Therapie , iv.  520  ; v.  275). 

SAPONARIA.— So aproot,  Soapwort. 

Saponaire  officinale , Fr.  Cod. ; Savonniere , Fr. ; Seifenwurzel,  G. ; Saponaria , Sp. 

The  root  of  Saponaria  officinalis,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Caryophyllaceae,  Sileneae. 

Origin. — Soapwort  is  a perennial  herb  growing  throughout  the  greater  part  of  Europe 
on  the  banks  of  streams  and  on  roadsides.  It  is  sometimes  met  with  in  cultivation  in  gar- 
dens, and  has  been  naturalized  in  North  America.  The  stem  is  about  50  Cm.  (20  inches) 
high  ; the  leaves  are  opposite,  mostly  sessile,  ovate,  oblong  or  nearly  lanceolate,  three- 
nerved,  entire,  and  nearly  smooth.  The  large,  pale  rose-colored  flowers  are  in  corymbed 
clusters,  have  a cylindrical  five-toothed  calyx  and  five  petals,  with  a two-cleft  appendage 
at  the  top  of  the  long  claw.  The  herb  flowers  from  June  to  August. 

Description. — -The  root  is  collected  in  the  spring  or  autumn  without  the  creeping 
runners,  is  25-38  Cm.  (10  to  15  inches)  long,  cylindrical,  about  3-6  Mm.  (£  or  1 inch) 
thick,  gradually  tapering  below,  somewhat  branched,  longitudinally  wrinkled,  and  of  a 
red-brown  color  externally.  It  breaks  with  a short  fracture,  and  is  internally  white,  with 
a rather  thick  bark  and  a soft  yellowish,  and  in  the  centre  whitish,  wood,  which  has  no 
medullary  rays  and  is  surrounded  by  a fine  dark-colored  cambium-line.  The  root  is 
inodorous,  and  has  a sweetish  and  bitter  afterward  persistently  acrid  taste. 

Constituents. — Soaproot  contains  saponin , and  is  free  from  starch.  Bucholz  (1811) 
found  also  resin,  mucilage,  and  other  common  principles.  Osborne  (1827)  obtained  from 
the  root  collected  before  flowering  white,  fusible,  very  bitter  needles  soluble  in  water, 
alcohol,  and  ether ; but  the  nature  of  these  has  not  been  ascertained.  Schiaparelli  (1883) 
obtained  saponin  as  a white,  amorphous,  inodorous  powder,  sternutatory  and  of  a dis- 
agreeable taste,  insoluble  in  ether,  benzene,  and  chloroform,  of  the  composition  C32H5+018, 
and  by  dilute  acids  split  into  glucose  and  saponetin,  C^HegO^.  Saponin  from  quillaja- 
bark  was  found  by  Stiitz  to  have  the  composition  C19H30Oi0.  (See  also  Quillaja.) 

Allied  Drugs. — Levant  soaproot  is  obtained  from  Gypsophila  Struthium,  Linnt,  of  Northern 
Africa  and  Southern  Europe,  and  is  about  30  Cm.  (12  inches)  long,  5 Cm.  (2  inches)  thick,  trans- 
versely and  longitudinally  wrinkled,  pale-brownish  externally,  internally  white,  with  a rather 
hard  wood  and  numerous  medullary  rays.  In  sensible  properties  and  in  composition  it  resembles 
the  preceding. 

Soap-berries  are  the  fruit  of  Sapindus  Saponaria,  Limit  (nat.  ord.  Sapindaceae),  a medium- 
sized tree  of  tropical  America.  They  are  the  size  of  a cherry,  globular  or  somewhat  ovate, 
orange-colored,  and  contain  a parchment-like  endocarp  enclosing  two  or  three  black  seeds  ; the 
fleshy  sarcocarp  contains  saponin  and  formic  and  tartaric  acids.  The  fruit  of  the  East  Indian 
Sap.  laurifolius,  Vahl , is  red-brown  or  blackish,  and  has  similar  constituents  and  properties. 
The  seeds  yield  about  30  per  cent,  of  a butyraceous  fat. 

Buda  (Spergularia,  Persoon , Avenaria,  Linnt)  rubra,  Dumortier  (Alsineae),  grows  in  dry 
sandy  soil  near  the  sea-coast  in  Europe,  Africa,  and  North  America.  It  has  a prostrate  stem, 
opposite-linear,  gray-green  leaves,  lanceolate-cleft  stipules,  small  pink  flowers,  and  three-valved, 
many-seeded  capsules;  odor  and  taste  slight.  Vigier  (1881)  obtained  from  the  plant  a stearopten 
and  some  odorous  resin  ; the  decoction  is  stated  to  have  an  alkaline  reaction.  The  commercial 
drug,  as  used  in  France,  consisted  of  a number  of  allied  species. 

Action  and  Uses. — Saponaria  has  long  enjoyed  the  reputation  of  being  diaphoretic 


1420 


SARCOCOLLA.—SA  BRA  CENIA. 


and  diuretic,  and  alterative  in  that  it  cured  chronic  diseases  of  the  skin  and  bronchia , rheu- 
matism, gout,  syphilis,  and  periodical  fevers,  or  the  visceral  engorgements  following  them. 
It  has  been  compared  with  sarsaparilla  and  with  senega.  To  this  list  Blumenstadt  (1888) 
adds  a direct  emmenagogue  virtue,  all  the  more  valuable  because  it  is  free  from  danger- 
ous qualities  ( Therap . Gaz .,  xii.  705).  It  is  administered  in  a decoction  made  with  Gm. 
32  in  Gm.  500  (^j  in  Oj)  of  water.  That  this  plant  possesses  active  powers  is  evident 
from  the  large  proportion  it  contains  of  saponin,  whose  peculiar  virtues  are  treated  of 
elsewhere.  (See  Senega). 

SARCOCOLLA. — Sarcocolla. 

Sarcocolle,  Fr. ; Fleischleimgummi , Fischleimgummi,  Gr. 

An  exudation  of  Pensea  Sarcocolla,  Linne , and  P.  mucronata,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Penaeacese. 

Origin  and  Description. — The  plants  named  are  small  branching  shrubs,  with 
small,  opposite,  entire,  coriaceous  leaves,  and  clusters  of  yellow  flowers  surrounded  by  a 
purplish-red  leafy  involucre.  The  shrubs  are  indigenous  to  Central  and  Southern  Africa, 
and  exude  a juice  which  after  hardening  constitutes  sarcocolla.  Dymock  (1879),  how- 
ever, noticed  that  the  sarcocolla  which  comes  in  considerable  quantities  to  Bombay  from 
the  Persian  port  of  Bushire  is  always  mixed  with  fragments  of  a thorny  stem  and  with 
short,  slender,  and  cottony  pods  containing  a single  gray -brown  vetch-like  seed ; he 
believes  that  the  gum  is  obtained  from  one  of  the  desert  Leguminosae,  probably  a species 
of  Astragalus.  It  is  in  small,  roundish,  somewhat  spongy,  and  friable  grains,  which  are 
sometimes  agglutinated  to  larger  masses,  often  mixed  with  fine  hairs,  and  have  a yellow- 
ish, reddish,  or  brownish  color.  Sarcocolla  is  inodorous,  has  an  insipid,  sweetish,  after- 
ward somewhat  acrid  and  bitter  taste,  resembling  that  of  liquorice-root ; is  soluble  in 
water,  almost  completely  soluble  in  alcohol,  except  the  impurities,  and  when  heated  burns 
and  gives  off  the  odor  of  burning  sugar. 

Constituents. — On  treating  sarcocolla  with  ether,  Pelletier  (1834)  separated  a resin  ; 
the  undissolved  residue  yielded  to  alcohol  sarcocollin,  and  left  gummy  matter  behind. 
Sarcocollin  is  uncrystallizable,  soluble  in  alcohol  and  water,  possesses  a bitter-sweet  taste, 
and  when  oxidized  with  nitric  acid  yields  oxalic  acid.  Its  composition  is  said  to  be 

c13H23q6. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  name  of  this  substance,  which  means  a “joiner”  or 
“ healer  of  the  flesh,”  it  has  borne  since  an  early  period  in  the  history  of  medicine.  It 
was  held  in  great  repute  for  agglutinating  wounds  and  curing  defluxions  of  the  eyes,  and 
was  applied  to  joints  affected  with  chronic  inflammation.  It  was  reputed  to  be  a depila- 
tory, was  used  with  honey  to  check  otorrhcea , and  was  applied  with  nitre  as  a discutient 
of  scrofulous  glands. 

SARRACENIA. — Pitcher-plant. 

Side-saddle  plant,  Huntsman's  cup,  Water  cup , E. ; Sarracenie,  Fr.,  Gr. 

Sarracenia  purpurea,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Sarraceniacese. 

Description. — This  plant  grows  in  boggy  places  from  Canada  southward.  The 
rhizome  is  oblique,  conical,  about  25  Mm.  (1  inch)  or  more  long,  of  a reddish-brown 
color  externally  and  brownish-white  internally,  has  numerous,  thin,  nearly  simple,  tough- 
ish  rootlets  attached,  breaks  with  a short  fracture,  and  does  not  acquire  a blue  color  with 
solution  of  iodine.  It  is  inodorous,  and  has  a bitter  and  somewhat  astringent  taste.  The 
leaves  are  radical,  15-20  Cm.  (6  or  8 inches)  long,  pitcher-shaped,  most  inflated  near  the 
middle,  curved,  broadly  winged,  with  an  erect,  roundish,  heart-shaped  hood,  and  have  a 
bitterish  taste.  The  flower  is  nodding,  globose,  and  deep  purple,  and  has  fiddle-shaped 
petals. 

Constituents. — The  plant  was  analyzed  by  Bjorklund  and  Dragendorff  (1863),  who 
found,  besides  the  usual  constituents  of  herbs,  acrylic  add,  which  is  volatile,  and  about 
4 per  cent,  of  a volatile  base  having  an  odor  resembling  that  of  coniine.  Stan.  Martin 
(1865)  announced  the  presence  of  a bitter  alkaloid,  sarracenine,  the  sulphate  of  which  is 
crystallizable ; and  Hetet  found  two  alkaloids,  one  of  which  had  the  properties  of  vera- 
trine.  E.  Schmidt  (1872)  isolated  a yellow  coloring  matter,  sarracenie  acid,  which  yields 
with  alumina  a yellow  lake. 


SARSAPARILLA. 


1421 


Allied  Plants. — Sar.  flava,  Limit,  Trumpet-leaf.  The  rhizome  is  similar  to  the  preceding, 
hut  larger.  The  leaves  are  about  60  Cm.  (2  feet)  long,  tubular,  gradually  enlarged  to  the  open 
throat,  and  have  a very  narrow  wing  and  a roundish  mucronate  hood,  which  is  narrowed  toward 
the  base.  The  flower  is  yellow.  The  plant  grows  in  the  Southern  United  States. 

Sar.  variolaris,  Michaux , grows  from  South  Carolina  to  Florida,  and  has  elongated  leaves 
mottled  with  white  on  the  back,  with  a linear  wing,  and  with  the  lamina  inflected  over  the  throat 
of  the  tube.  The  flower  is  yellow. 

Action  and  Uses. — S.  flava  and  S.  variolaris  possess  stimulant  and  tonic  virtues, 
for  which  they  enjoy  a high  reputation  in  South  Carolina,  where  they  are  used  in  the 
treatment  of  dyspepsia  and  its  associated  ailments.  Sarracenia  is  said  to  have  been 
employed  in  gout  and  rheumatism,  and  Hetet  has  claimed  that  it  contains  an  alkali 
identical  with  veratrine  (Bud.  de  Therap .,  xcvi.  178).  A hasty  and  immature  observa- 
tion at  one  time  ascribed  to  S.  variolaris  the  virtues  of  a specific  remedy  for  small-pox — 
a notion  which,  it  is  almost  superfluous  to  say,  was  not  confirmed  by  experience,  but 
which,  like  other  errors,  it  required  some  time  and  labor  to  destroy.  The  plant  is  probably 
slightly  tonic,  anodyne,  and  astringent. 

SARSAPARILLA,  U.  S.— Sarsaparilla. 

Sar  see  radix , Br. ; Radix  sarsaparillse,  P.  G. — Salsepareille,  Fr.  Cod. ; Sassaparilla , G. ; 
Zarzaparilla , Sp. 

The  root  of  Smilax  officinalis,  Kunth , Sm.  medica,  Schlechtendal  et  Chamisso , and  of 
other  species  of  Smilax.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 289,  290. 

Nat.  Ord. — Smilaceae. 

Origin. — Sarsaparilla  is  obtained  from  different  species  of  Smilax  growing  in  swampy 
forests  of  Mexico  and  as  far  south  as  the  northern  portion  of  Brazil.  These  are  woody 
climbers,  and  often  attain  a great  height.  Smilax  Sarsaparilla,  Linne , is  indigenous  to 
the  United  States,  and  grows  chiefly  in  the  Southern  States  ; it  is  in  part  at  least  Smilax 
glauca,  Walter,  but  does  not  afford  any  sarsaparilla  ; its  subterraneous  portion  is  a long, 
cylindrical,  creeping  rhizome  with  prominent  nodes  and  a few  small  rootlets,  and  bears  no 
resemblance  to  the  commercial  drug.  The  only  sarsaparilla-yielding  species  which  are 
tolerably  well  known  are  the  following  : 

Smilax  officinalis.  It  is  indigenous  to  New  Granada  and  other  parts  of  Northern 
South  America,  and  has  a quadrangular  stem  and  large  cordately-ovate  or  oblong,  five-  or 
seven-nerved  leaves ; it  furnishes  Jamaica  sarsaparilla. 

Smilax  medica.  It  has  a zigzag  stem  and  much  smaller  leaves,  which  are  frequently 
auriculate,  with  broad  and  obtuse  basal  lobes.  It  is  indigenous  to  Mexico,  and  affords  the 
Mexican  sarsaparilla. 

Smilax  syphilitica,  Kunth , Smilax  or  Nata,  Hooker  films , S.  scabriuscula,  Kunth , S. 
cordato-ovata,  Richard , S.  papyracea,  Poiret , S.  Purhampuy,  Ruiz , and  others  are  imper- 
fectly known,  or,  at  all  events,  it  is  uncertain  whether  they  are  sources  of  some  variety 
of  the  drug. 

Collection. — No  satisfactory  account  has  been  given  of  the  manner  in  which  the 
different  varieties  are  collected  and  prepared  for  the  market.  According  to  Rich.  Spruce, 
in  the  valley  of  the  Amazon  the  roots  are  about  2.7  M.  (9  feet)  long,  spread  horizontally, 
and  are  collected  after  several  stems  have  been  produced,  younger  plants  having  so  few 
roots  as  not  to  be  worth  grubbing  up.  The  earth  is  scraped  away  from  the  roots  by  hand, 
aided  by  a pointed  stick,  and  the  roots  of  other  plants  interfering  are  cut  through  with  a 
knife.  When  at  length  laid  bare,  the  sarsaparilla-roots  are  cut  off'  near  the  crown,  a few 
slender  ones  being  allowed  to  remain  to  aid  the  plant  in  renewing  its  growth,  and  the 
stems  are  cut  down  to  near  the  ground.  The  yield  of  a plant  of  four  years’  growth  is 
about  16  pounds,  and  of  older  plants  from  two  to  four  times  that  quantity  (Pharmaco- 
gr  aphid). 

Description. — As  met  with  in  commerce,  sarsaparilla  consists  either  of  the  horizon- 
tal roots  alone  or  in  part  also  of  the  short  knotty  rhizome,  to  which,  in  some  sorts,  por- 
tions of  the  overground  stems  are  sometimes  attached.  The  roots  are  long,  cylindrical, 
tapering  toward  both  extremities,  and  beset  with  thin  branching  fibres  called  the  beard , or 
nearly  free  from  fibres.  They  are  more  or  less  deeply  furrowed  in  a longitudinal  direction, 
and  have  mostly  a gray  or  blackish-gray  color  externally  from  adhering  earth,  and  after 
this  has  been  washed  off  are  of  a bright  brownish-  or  reddish-yellow  color,  and  partic- 
ularly in  the  folds  are  often  clothed  with  short  simple  hairs.  When  cut  transversely 
several  distinct  zones  are  observed,  which,  under  the  microscope,  have  the  following 


1422 


SARSAPARILLA. 


appearance : The  epidermis  is  formed  of  one  layer  of  cells,  some  of  which  are  prolonged 
into  hairs ; then  follows  the  outer  endoderm,  a subcuticular  layer  composed  of  two  or 


Fig.  255. 


three  or  more  rows  of  axially-elongated  cells  with  their  walls  thickened  from  secondary 
deposits,  and  a layer  of  parenchyma,  called  the  bark,  and  containing  starch  or  an  amorph- 


Fig.  256.  Fig.  257. 


Honduras  Sarsaparilla.  Mexican  Sarsaparilla. 


Rio  Negro  Sarsaparilla. 


Jamaica  Sarsaparilla. 


Sections  through  nucleus-sheath,  showing  above  one  row  of  cells  of  bark -parenchyma,  and  beneath  it 
several  rows  of  cells  of  the  woody  zone  ; magnified  80  diameters. 


Fig.  261. 


ous  mass,  and  some  cells  filled  with  bundles  of  needle-shaped  crystals  consisting  of  oxa- 
late of  calcium.  Underneath  the  bark  is  the  nucleus- 
slieath,  also  called  bundle-sheath  and  inner  endoderm, 
consisting  of  a single  row  of  cells  with  thickened  walls, 
resembling  those  of  the  subcuticular  tissue,  and  vary- 
ing in  shape  and  in  the  secondary  deposits  in  the  difler- 

Fig.  260. 


Honduras  Sarsaparilla. 


ent  varieties ; to  this  adheres  the  woody  zone,  varying  in  width  in  the  different  kinds, 
and  chiefly  composed  of  fibro-vascular  bundles.  The  central  layer,  usually  called 
the  pith,  consists  of  parenchyma-cells  similar  to  those  outside  the  nucleus-sheath,  and 
occasionally  contains  a few  scattered  wood-bundles.  Schleiden,  and  afterward  Berg,  pro- 
posed a classification  of  the  sarsaparillas  mainly  from  the  character  of  the  nucleus-sheath, 
and  more  recently  a similar  view  was  taken  by  Ferd.  Otten  (1876).  The  cells  of  the 
nucleus-sheath  are  nearly  uniformly  thickened  on  all  sides,  and  have  an  almost  quadran- 
gular appearance  in  Honduras  sarsaparilla ; they  are  somewhat  elongated  in  a radial 
direction  in  Brazilian  sarsaparilla,  and  toward  the  outside  are  rather  less  thickened  than 
on  the  inner  and  lateral  cell-walls.  Mexican  sarsaparilla  has  the  cells  of  the  nucleus- 
sheath  of  a somewhat  wedge-shaped  appearance,  the  layers  of  the  cells-walls  being  thick- 


SARSAPARILLA. 


1423 


est  in  the  inner  half.  Jamaica  sarsaparilla  has  the  incrustation  of  the  sheath-cells  thick- 
est upon  the  inner  and  lateral  walls — frequently  so  as  to  assume  a wedge-shaped  appear- 
ance ; another  kind  has  the  cells  radially  elongated,  but  not  wedge-shaped,  and  the  cell- 
walls  nearly  uniformly  thickened  on  all  sides.  There  are,  however,  frequently  modifica- 
tions or  intermediate  forms  of  these  characters  observed.  The  cells  of  the  subcuticular 
layer  have  their  cell-walls  considerably  thickened,  particularly  the  outer  ones. 

Sarsaparilla  is  nearly  inodorous,  except  in  infusion  and  decoction  ; it  has  at  first  a 
slight  taste,  but  leaves  an  acrid  impression  in  the  fauces,  by  the  intensity  of  which  the 
quality  of  the  root  may  be  approximately  judged. 

Commercial  Varieties. — The  sarsaparillas  may  be  conveniently  distinguished  as 
mealy  and  non-mealy ; the  former  are  amylaceous  in  the  interior,  but  usually  contain  in 
some  portions  of  the  parenchyma-tissue  amorphous  masses  of  altered  starch,  and  they 
are  usually  marked  externally  by  rather  uniform  and  shallow  wrinkles.  The  non-mealy 
varieties  are  rather  horny,  and  not  farinaceous  when  broken  transversely,  contain  but 
little  granular  starch,  and  are  usually  characterized  by  deep  longitudinal  and  irregular 
folds.  The  sarsaparillas  from  Honduras  and  Mexico,  which  are  mostly  met  with  in  the 
United  States,  are  representatives  of  the  two  classes. 

Fig.  262. 


Rio  Negro  or  Para  Sarsaparilla. 


Mealy  Sarsaparillas. — Honduras  Sarsaparilla.  This  is  exported  from  Belize 
and  other  ports  on  the  Bay  of  Honduras,  and  comes  in  bundles  2 or  3 feet  (60  to  90  Cm.) 
long,  consisting  of  the  folded  roots,  in  the  interior  containing  some  hard 
woody  rhizomes  and  often  short  fragments  of  the  stem,  and  tied  with  Fig.  263. 
roots  of  the  same  kind.  The  roots  have  some  fibres  attached,  and  have 
the  cortical  layer  somewhat  thicker  than  the  woody  zone,  and  of  about 
the  same  width  or  thinner  than  the  pith.  It  is  the  kind  recognized  by 
the  German  Pharmacopoeia. 

Bio  Negro  Sarsaparilla,  also  called  Para,  Brazilian,  and  Lisbon 
Sarsaparilla.  This  is  exported  from  Para,  and  comes  in  long  cylin- 
drical rolls  tied  together  by  a smooth  stem,  and  with  both  ends  cut 
off"  evenly.  It  is  free  from  rhizomes  and  stems,  and  contains  but 
few  root-fibres,  but  the  interior  of  the  bundle  is  frequently  packed  Ririii^Td\ametSsa" 
with  roots  of  inferior  quality.  The  bark  and  pith  are  nearly  of  the 
same  width,  but  the  ligneous  zone  is  only  one-third  or  one-fourth  that  thickness. 

Non-mealy  Sarsaparillas. — Mexican  Sarsaparilla,  also  called  Vera  Cruz 
and  Tampico  Sarsaparilla.  The  roots  are  folded  back,  so  as  to  cover  the  knotty  rhi- 


Fig.  264. 


Mexican  Sarsaparilla. 


Fig.  265. 


Mexican  Sarsaparilla,  3 
diameters. 


zomes  and  portions  of  the  stem,  which  are  often  6 inches  (15  Cm.)  in  length.  The 
roots  have  but  few  rootlets  attached,  and  are  deeply  and  irregularly  wrinkled.  The  pith 
is  of  about  the  same  width  as  the  woody  zone  or  a little  thicker,  but  the  bark  is  some- 
times twice  this  thickness,  at  least  in  the  projecting  ridges  or  after  soaking  in  water.  It 
is  probably  obtained  from  Smilax  medica. 

Jamaica  Sarsaparilla.  This  is  also  known  as  bearded  sarsaparilla,  from  the 
numerous  root-fibres  attached  to  it.  It  comes  in  bundles  similar  to,  but  usually  shorter 
than,  those  of  Honduras  sarsaparilla,  and  less  neatly  tied.  The  rhizomes  are  generally 


1424 


SARSAPARILLA. 


absent.  The  layers  of  pith  and  bark  are  nearly  of  the  same  width,  but  the  woody  zone 
is  narrower,  being  about  one-half  the  width  of  the  pith. 

It  varies  in  mealiness,  often  in  different  parts  of  the  same 
root,  and  is  also  distinguished  from  the  other  varieties  by 
its  reddish-brown  color.  It  does  not  grow  wild  in  Jamaica, 

Fig.  266. 


Jamaica  Sarsaparilla. 

but  is  obtained  from  Costa  Rica,  and  a similar  drug,  agreeing  in  all  essential  qualities  with 
this,  is  sometimes  exported  from  Venezuela  and  known  as  Caracas  sarsaparilla.  It  is 
supposed  to  be  derived  from  Smilax  officinalis,  which  is  cultivated  to  a limited  extent  in 
Jamaica,  but  there  furnishes  a more  mealy  root.  Jamaica  sarsaparilla  is  the  only  kind 
recognized  by  the  British  Pharmacopoeia. 

Other  varieties  of  sarsaparilla  have  been  described  by  European  writers,  but  are  rarely, 
if  ever,  met  with  in  commerce  in  this  country. 

Constituents. — Sarsaparilla  was  analyzed  by  Pallotta  (1824),  Folchi,  Thubeuf 
(1831),  Batka  (1834),  Poggiale  (1835),  and  others,  and  the  acrid  principle  has  at  differ- 
ent times  received  the  designations  smilacin , pariglin , parillin , salseparin,  etc.  Pallotta 
precipitated  the  decoction  with  milk  of  lime,  decomposed  the  precipitate  with  carbonic 
acid,  and,  after  drying,  exhausted  it  with  alcohol.  Thubeuf  exhausted  the  root  with 
boiling  alcohol,  concentrated  the  tincture,  treated  the  residue  with  charcoal,  and  recrystal- 
lized from  hot  alcohol ; 10  pounds  of  the  root  yielded  3 ounces  of  smilacin.  Lamatsch 
(1857)  precipitated  the  concentrated  alcoholic  decoction  with  water,  washed  the  precipi- 
tate with  ether,  and  purified  it  by  treating  its  alcoholic  solution  with  animal  charcoal ; 
Fliickiger  (1877)  recrystallized  this  precipitate  from  alcohol;  the  yield  was  0.19  per 
cent.  In  its  purest  state  parillin  has  been  obtained  as  colorless  needles,  which  are 
sparingly  soluble  in  cold  water  and  diluted  alcohol,  but  more  freely  soluble  in  hot  water 
(20  parts,  Fliickiger)  and  hot  alcohol ; it  is  also  soluble  in  alkalies  and  dilute  acids,  and 
nearly  insoluble  in  ether  and  chloroform.  Its  aqueous  solution  foams  in  a manner  simi- 
lar to  that  of  a solution  of  saponin,  and  on  boiling  reduces  in  a slight  degree  an  alkaline 
solution  of  copper,  but  more  abundantly  after  it  has  been  boiled  with  dilute  sulphuric 
acid,  when  sugar  and  parigenin , which  is  insoluble  in  water,  are  formed.  Parillin  is  pre- 
cipitated by  lead  acetate  and  subacetate  and  by  tannin,  dissolves  in  sulphuric  acid  with 
a yellow  afterward  cherry-red  color,  and  with  warm  diluted  sulphuric  acid  turns  greenish, 
red,  and  brown ; it  appears  to  be  closely  related  to  sapogenin,  but  its  exact  composition 
has  not  been  determined.  The  other  constituents  of  sarsaparilla  are  a trace  of  essential 
oil,  resin,  pectin,  albumen,  and  other  common  principles.  Otten  obtained  also  between  2 
and  3 per  cent,  of  saponin , and  determined  the  starch  in  the  non-mealy  varieties  to  vary 
between  3 and  13.8  per  cent.,  while  the  mealy  varieties  contained  sometimes  as  high  as 
15  per  cent.,  and  in  rare  cases  as  low  as  10,  or  even  6.25,  per  cent,  of  starch. 

Valuation. — Marquis  (1875)  estimated  the  amount  of  (impure)  parillin  by  digest- 
ing the  root  with  30  per  cent,  alcohol,  evaporating  to  an  extract,  washing  this  with  cold 
water,  and  exhausting  with  boiling  alcohol,  on  the  evaporation  of  which  a yellowish  mass 
was  left,  which  was  weighed  as  parillin.  After  modifying  the  process,  Otten  obtained 
similar  results,  tending  to  show  that  Honduras  and  Para  sarsaparilla  yield  less  parillin 
than  the  Vera  Cruz  and  Jamaica  varieties. 

Allied  Drugs. — Smilax  China,  Linn<?.  This  is  a climbing  shrub  of  Eastern  and  South-eastern 
Asia.  Its  irregular,  tuberous  rhizomes,  together  with  those  of  several  other  species,  are  used  in 
Europe  as  Rhizoma  (Radix)  Chinse. — China-root,  E. ; Squine,  Racine  de  Chine,  Fr. ; China- 
wurzel,  G. — They  vary  in  length  from  10-25  Cm.  (4  to  about  10  inches),  and  in  thickness  from 
2-5  Cm.  (1  to  2 inches),  are  more  or  less  covered  with  short  obtuse  branches,  are  reddish-brown 
and  somewhat  wrinkled*  externally,  and  internally  brownish-white,  with  numerous  brown  resin- 
spots,  somewhat  horny  or  mealy,  hard,  and  dense.  China-root  is  inodorous  and  has  an  insipid, 
faintly  bitter,  and  somewhat  acrid  taste.  Smilax  Pseudo-china,  Linn£,  and  Sm.  tamnoides, 
LinnZ,  wffiich  are  natives  of  the  United  States,  yield  similar  tuberous  rhizomes,  which  are  usu- 
ally lighter  in  color  and  weight.  The  root  of  Sm.  aspera,  Linn£,  of  Southern  Europe,  has  been 
employed  there  in  place  of  sarsaparilla. 


Fig.  267. 


Jamaica  Sarsaparilla,  4 diam. 


SARSAPARILLA. 


1425 

The  Mexican  Pharmacopoeia  recognizes  as  raiz  de  China  de  Mexico  a large  conical  or  some- 
what spindle-shaped  root,  which  is  45  Cm.  (18  inches)  long,  15-18  Cm.  (6  or  7 inches)  in  diam- 
eter, reddish-brown,  internally  lighter,  fleshy,  with  numerous  irregular  wood-bundles,  inodorous 
when  dry,  and  of  an  astringent  and  somewhat  bitter  taste.  It  is  erroneously  referred  to  Smilax 
rotundifolia,  Lining  which  is  indigenous  to  the  United  States  and  has  a creeping  rhizome  with 
prominent  nodes. 

Carex  arexaria,  Linn6. — Sand  sedge,  German  sarsaparilla,  E. ; Laiche,  Fr. ; Sandriedgras, 
Rothe  Quecke,  G.  (nat.  ord.  Cyperacese). — It  is  indigenous  to  Europe,  and  grows  frequently  in 
sandy  soil  and  near  the  coast  of  Germany.  The  rhizome  (Rhizoma  caricis)  is  creeping,  several 
feet  long,  about  2.5  Mm.  inch)  thick,  subcylindrical,  gray-brown,  wrinkled,  and  on  the  nodes 
beset  with  rootlets  and  with  fringed  sheaths.  Internally,  it  shows  a woody  zone  composed  of 
three  irregular  circles  of  fibro-vascular  bundles  enclosing  soft  white  cellular  tissue,  and  sur- 
rounded by  a cortical  layer  having  a circle  of  large  prominent  air-passages.  The  dried  rhizome 
has  little  odor  and  a mealy,  sweetish,  afterward  bitter  and  acrid . taste.  It  is  employed  like 
sarsaparilla. 

History. — The  Spaniards  first  brought  sarsaparilla  to  Europe  about  the  middle  of  the 
sixteenth  century  from  Peru,  St.  Domingo,  and  Brazil.  It  was  then  believed  to  be  a spe- 
cific for  constitutional  syphilis,  and  especially  for  the  rheumatoid  and  ulcerative  symptoms 
of  that  disease.  It  had,  however,  quite  fallen  into  neglect  when  a belief  in  its  virtues 
was  for  a time  revived  at  the  end  of  the  eighteenth  century  ; but  it  again  gradually  lost 
vogue  as  a remedy  for  syphilis,  and  was  more  largely  used  by  nostrum-venders  than  by 
physicians. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  operation  of  the  active  principle  of  this  root  (smilacin, 
parillin)  is  by  no  means  a negative  one.  According  to  Pallotta,  in  doses  of  6 grains  it 
occasions  malaise  and  slowness  of  the  pulse  ; 8 grains  produce  nausea  and  constriction  of 
the  throat;  10  grains,  general  debility  and  diaphoresis;  13  grains,  moderate  vomiting  of 
a bitter  liquid,  with  irritation  and  constriction  of  the  throat,  faintness,  and  general 
exhaustion.  These  effects  have  been  ascribed  to  a different  principle  from  either  of  the 
above,  but  which  has  not  been  isolated.  It  is  certain,  however,  that  they  may  be  caused 
by  some  derivative  of  sarsaparilla,  however  named,  and  that  they  have  also  been  produced 
by  large  doses  of  the  drug  itself.  In  medicinal  doses  neither  sarsaparilla  nor  its  usual 
preparations  occasion  any  such  phenomena.  Their  effects  are  manifested  during  a state 
of  disease,  rather  than  in  health,  and  consist  of  an  improved  condition  of  the  digestive 
and  nutritive  functions  and  the  gradual  subsidence  of  the  morbid  derangement. 

Although  sarsaparilla  has  been  recommended  in  chronic  gout , rheumatism , and  shin 
diseases , yet  the  only  disease  for  the  cure  of  which  special  virtues  have  been  claimed  for 
it  is  constitutional  syphilis , and  the  most  eminent  authorities  upon  this  subject  have  gen- 
erally agreed  that  its  efficacy  depends  upon  the  patient  having  been  previously  subjected 
to  a mercurial  treatment.  It  is  certain  that  with  the  disuse  of  mercury  to  produce  sali- 
vation, and  the  dire  consequences  of  the  saturation  of  the  system  with  that  mineral,  the 
use  of  sarsaparilla  grew  less  and  less  frequent,  so  that  it  at  last  came  to  be  prescribed, 
not  so  much  from  a belief  in  its  utility  as  to  gratify  the  popular  faith  in  its  virtues. 
Some  have  gone  so  far  as  to  declare  that  the  various  decoctions  of  sarsaparilla  are 
curative  solely  by  means  of  the  water  which  they  contain — a judgment  which,  in  view 
of  the  powers  manifested  by  its  active  principles,  seems  to  be  exaggerated,  if  not  erroneous. 
It  is  the  more  difficult  to  determine  the  value  of  sarsaparilla  in  the  treatment  of  syphilis 
because  it  is  nearly  always  associated  with  other  active  medicines,  as  with  guaiacum  and 
mezereon  in  the  compound  decoction,  and  with  the  former  of  these  drugs  in  the  compound 
syrup  of  sarsaparilla.  Of  the  official  preparations,  the  first  is  the  only  one  that  is  worthy 
of  being  used.  It  is  customary  to  associate  with  it  potassium  iodide,  which  is  commonly 
curative  without  the  sarsaparilla.  Nevertheless,  there  are  cases  of  constitutional  syphilis 
which  make  no  progress  or  grow  worse  under  treatment  by  mercury  or  by  iodine,  and 
which  are  restored  to  health  by  the  decoction  of  sarsaparilla  (e.  g.  two  cases  by  Carter, 
Practitioner , xxvi.  357). 

Zittmann’s  decoction  for  the  cure  of  syphilis  is  one  of  the  most  celebrated  and  efficient 
preparations  of  sarsaparilla.  (See  Decoctum  Sarsaparilla  Compositum.)  Of  the 
virtues  of  this  preparation  we  have  the  authority  of  Erasmus  Wilson  for  saying  that  in 
extreme  and  very  obstinate  cases  of  the  ulcerating  forms  of  syphilis  which  have  resisted 
both  mercury  and  iodine,  and  particularly  in  those  most  difficult  of  all  cases  where  the 
disease  has  got  possession  of  the  tongue  and  the  mucous  membrane  of  the  mouth,  it  may 
often  be  had  recourse  to  with  great  success. 

Carex  arenaria  was  at  one  time  regarded  as  possessing  all  the  virtues  of  sarsapa- 
rilla, and  particularly  as  promoting  the  cutaneous  and  renal  secretions.  It  was  used  in 
90 


1426 


SASSAFRAS.— SASSAFRAS  MEDULLA. 


the  treatment  of  rheumatism , gout , pulmonary  and  cutaneous  diseases , and  syphilis.  The 
root  was  used  in  decoction,  and  in  its  stead  C.  intermedia  and  C.  hirta  were  often 
employed. 

Arenaria  rubra  is  a popular  remedy  in  Algiers  for  gravel  and  various  affections  of 
the  urino-genital  organs  and  in  some  forms  of  dropsy  ( Therap.  Gaz .,  viii.  382).  It  is 
said  to  be  entirely  innocuous.  It  probably  owes  its  diuretic  qualities  to  the  large  propor- 
tion it  contains  of  sodium  and  potassium  salts.  It  is  best  given  in  a decoction  prepared 
with  an  ounce  of  the  plant  in  a pint  of  water,  reduced  one-fifth  and  sweetened.  Dose , a 
tablespoonful  six  or  seven  times  a day  (Bull,  de  Therap .,  xcv.  287  ; xcvii.  69,  94). 

SASSAFRAS,  U.  S. — Sassafras. 

SASSAFRAS  MEDULLA,  U.  S.— Sassafras-pith. 

The  bark  of  the  root  (the  root,  Br .,  P.  G.)  and  the  pith  of  Sassafras  variifolium  ( Salis- 
bury),  0.  Kuntz.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 220. 

Nat.  Ord. — Lauraceae,  Litseacese. 

Origin. — Sassafras  became  known  in  Europe  toward  the  close  of  the  sixteenth  cen- 
tury. The  plant  is  indigenous  to  North  America  from  Canada  southward  to  the  Gulf  of 
Mexico  and  westward  to  Texas  ; remains  shrubby  in  the  North,  but  attains  a height  of 
12—15  M.  (40  or  50  feet)  in  the  Southern  States.  The  trunk  has  a rough  furrowed  gray 
bark,  but  the  young  branches  are  of  a brown  color.  The  wood  is  white  or  reddish,  light, 
but  very  strong  and  durable.  The  leaves  are  alternate,  petiolate  7—15  Cm.  (3  or  6 inches) 
long,  bright-green  and  smooth  above,  downy  beneath,  especially  when  young ; broadly 
ovate  in  shape  and  entire,  or  some  of  them  two-  or  three-lobed — all,  however,  with  a 
wedge-shaped  base.  The  greenish-yellow  flowers  appear  before  the  leaves  in  March  and 
April  or  May,  are  dioecious,  grow  in  downy  racemes,  and  have  linear  bracts  at  the  base 
and  a deeply  six-lobed  perianth.  The  male  flowers  have  nine  stamens  in  three  rows,  and 
the  female  flowers  six  short  imperfect  stamens.  The  fruit  is  a dark-blue,  oval  or  ovoid, 
one-seeded  drupe,  supported  in  the  permanent* base  of  the  perianth  and  on  the  thickened 
clavate  reddish  peduncle.  The  flowers  have  an  agreeable  though  not  a strong  odor ; the 
bark  of  the  branches  is  aromatic,  but  differs  in  flavor  from  that  of  the  root ; the  leaves 
contain  a considerable  quantity  of  mucilage. 

Description. — The  following  parts  are  recognized  by  the  pharmacopoeias : 

1.  Sassafras,  U.  S. ; Cortex  sassafras. — Sassafras-bark,  A'.;  £corce  de  sassafras, 
Fr.  ; Sassafrasrinae,  G.  ; Corteza  de  sasafras,  Bp. — Only  the  root-bark  is  employed.  It 
is  deprived  of  the  dark-gray,  inert,  corky  layer,  is  whitish  in  the  fresh  state,  and  is  seen  in 
commerce  in  irregular  flattish  or  curved  pieces,  usually  5-10  Cm.  (2  to  4 inches)  in  length 
and  width.  It  is  of  a bright  rust-brown  color,  on  the  inner  surface  finely  striate  and 
glistening,  rather  soft  and  fragile,  breaks  with  a short  corky  fracture,  and  on  transverse 
section  is  radially  striate.  It  has  a strong  fragrant  odor  and  a sweetish,  aromatic,  some- 
what astringent  taste. 

2.  Sassafras  radix,  Br. ; Lignum  sassafras,  P.  G. — Sassafras-root,  E. ; Sassafras, 
(Bois),  Fr.  Cod. ; Sassafrasholz,  Fenchelholz,  G.  ; Leno  de  sasafras,  Sp. — The  root  is 
medicinally  employed  in  Europe,  but  not  in  the  United  States.  It  comes  in  crooked 
and  branching  pieces  with  or  without  the  bark  attached,  varying  in  size,  and  in  color 
between  yellowish-white  and  a pale-brownish  or  reddish.  The  wood  is  rather  spongy, 
porous,  light,  composed  of  numerous  annual  layers  and  marked  by  numerous  medullary 
rays  ; it  has  the  odor  and  taste  of  the  bark,  but  in  a milder  degree.  The  German  name 
Fenchelholz  (fennel-wood)  has  reference  to  the  fancied  resemblance  of  its  odor  to  that 
of  fennel. 

3.  Sassafras  medulla,  TJ.  S.,  Sassafras-pith.  It  is  obtained  from  the  branches,  and 
is  met  with  in  slender,  cylindrical,  very  light  pieces,  frequently  curved  or  coiled,  white, 
inodorous,  and  of  an  insipid,  mucilaginous  taste.  When  macerated  in  water  it  forms  a 
ropy  but  non-tenacious  mucilaginous  liquid,  which  is  not  precipitated  by  alcohol. 

Constituents. — Sassafras-bark  was  examined  by  Reinsch  (1845),  who  obtained  from 
it  volatile  oil  (page  1152),  tannin,  sassafrid,  starch,  resin,  waxy  matter,  mucilage,  and 
coloring  matter.  On  treating  the  bark,  previously  exhausted  by  ether,  with  alcohol, 
evaporating  the  alcohol,  and  macerating  the  extract  with  water,  tannin  is  dissolved,  yield- 
ing with  ferric  salts  bluish-green  precipitates,  and  sassafrid  remains  behind  as  a light  red- 
dish-brown, inodorous,  and  nearly  tasteless  powder,  which  is  nearly  insoluble  in  ether,  ana 
separates  from  its  hot  concentrated  alcoholic  solution  in  yellowish-brown  crystalline  gran- 


S A UR  UR  US. 


1427 


ules.  Its  solutions  are  colored  red  by  alkalies,  and  precipitated  carmine-red  by  alkaline 
earths,  dark  greenish-brown  by  ferric  salts,  and  whitish  by  lead  acetate.  It  is  doubt- 
less an  oxidation-product  of  tannin.  Pectin  could  not  be  found.  The  bark  contains 
about  6 per  cent,  of  tannin  and  over  9 per  cent,  of  sassafrid.  According  to  Procter  (1866), 
fresh  sassafras-bark  contains  no  sassafrid,  but  this  is  formed  from  the  tannin  on  exposure 
to  air.  The  woody  portion  of  the  root  contains  the  same  constituents,  but  in  smaller  pro- 
portion. The  principal  constituent  of  sassafras-pith  is  mucilage. 

Allied  Plant. — Umbellularia  (Oreodaphne,  Nees,  Tetranthera,  Wight  et  Arnott ) califor- 
nica,  Nuttall.  California  bay-laurel  or  spice-tree.  This  evergreen  tree  is  indigenous  near  the 
Pacific  coast  of  North  America,  and  in  Oregon  attains  a height  of  24  M.  (80  feet)  or  more,  but 
in  California  is  of  smaller  size.  The  brownish,  close-grained  wood  is  much  esteemed  for  cabinet- 
work. The  leaves  are  alternate,  lanceolate,  entire,  pinnately  veined,  reticulate,  and  pellucid 
punctate.  They  yield  about  4 per  cent,  of  a yellowish  volatile  oil  having  the  spec.  grav.  0.936, 
an  odor  resembling  nutmeg  and  cardamom,  and  a warm  camphoraceous  taste.  The  oil  was  ex- 
amined by  J.  P.  Heamy  (1875)  and  -J.  M.  Stillman  (1880),  and  appears  to  contain  a hydrocarbon 
and  a terpene-hydrate,  C20H32.H2O,  boiling  below  190°  C.  (374°  F.),  and  oreodaphnol  (umbellol, 
Stillman),  C8H120,  boiling  above  210°  C.  (410°  F.).  The  seeds  contain  a fat  which  melts  near  32° 
C.  (89°  F.),  and,  according  to  Stillman  (1882),  contains  crystalline  umbellulic  acid , CnH2202,  dis- 
tilling near  272°  C.  (522°  F.)  without  decomposition. 

Action  and  Uses. — Sassafras-bark  is  believed  to  be  somewhat  stimulant,  quick- 
ening the  pulse  slightly,  promoting  digestion,  and  increasing  the  secretions  of  the  skin 
and  kidneys.  It  was  formerly  used  in  the  treatment  of  chronic  syphilis  and  diseases 
of  the  skin,  and  is  one  of  the  medicines  which  are  popularly  supposed  to  purify  the 
blood.  Emmenagogue  virtues  have  been  attributed  to  it  ( Med . News , xlviii.  46).  Its 
real  virtues,  if  any,  are  undetermined.  It  may  be  given  ad  libitum  in  an  infusion  made 
with  from  Gm.  16—32  in  Gm.  250  (^  ounce  to  an  ounce  of  the  bark  and  J pint)  of  hot 
water.  It  is  said  that  an  infusion  of  sassafras-bark  is  “ almost  a specific  for  the  rash  pro- 
duced by  poison  oak.”  It  should  be  taken  internally  and  applied  topically  (Hinton). 

Sassafras-pith  is  used  to  form  a mucilage  with  cold  water.  It  is  demulcent,  and  at  the 
same  time  a very  mild  local  stimulant.  An  infusion  of  it  may  be  used  internally  as  a drink 
in  dysentery,  in  inflammations  of  the  throat,  air-passages,  and  stomach,  and  in  febrile  affec- 
tions generally.  It  forms  an  agreeable  and  efficient  collyrium  in  cases  of  acute  conjunc- 
tivitis, and  serves  as  a vehicle  for  more  active  remedies. 

California  laurel  is  alleged  to  be  stimulant  and  anodyne,  and  is  said  to  be  used  with 
advantage  in  various  diarrhoeal  affections,  neuralgia , headache,  etc.  ( Therap.  Gaz.,  viii. 
161). 

SAURURUS. — Lizard’s  Tail. 

Saururus  cernuus,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Saururacese. 

Description. — This  is  a common  North  American  perennial,  inhabiting  swampy 
localities.  Its  stem  is  about  60  Cm.  (2  feet)  high  and  rather  weak.  The  leaves  are  alter- 
nate, petiolate,  about  10  Cm.  (4  inches)  long,  heart-shaped,  entire,  pointed,  convergingly 
ribbed,  slightly  hairy,  and  underneath  pale-green.  The  flowers  are  in  a slender,  crowded, 
terminal,  spike-like  raceme  which  is  about  10  Cm.  (4  inches)  long,  are  destitute  of  any 
floral  envelope,  contain  six  hypogynous  stamens  and  three  or  four  ovaries  united  at  the 
base,  and  produce  a somewhat  fleshy,  berry-like  fruit.  The  entire  plant  has  an  aromatic 
but  rather  unpleasant  odor  and  a somewhat  acrid  taste. 

Constituents. — The  plant  has  not  been  analyzed. 

Allied  Plant. — Anemopsis  californica,  Hooker.  It  is  a small  perennial,  indigenous  to  Cali- 
fornia and  Mexico,  where  it  is  known  as  yerba  mansa.  The  leaves  are  mostly  radical,  smooth, 
and  have  sheathing  petioles ; the  root  is  whitish  and  fleshy  ; all  parts  of  the  plant,  when  broken, 
have  a pungent  peppery  taste.  Prof.  Lloyd  (1880)  obtained  from  a pound  of  the  root  6 drachms 
of  a yellowish  volatile  oil,  which  becomes  red  and  thick  with  sulphuric  acid,  is  slowly  colored 
blue,  violet  purple,  and  brown  by  hydrochloric  acid,  and  acquires  a blue  color  with  nitro-muriatic 
, acid.  Alcohol  deprives  the  root  of  its  sensible  properties,  and  when  evaporated  leaves  an  oil 
which  is  heavier  than  water,  and  from  which  carbon  disulphide  precipitates  a brown  granular 
substance  having  an  astringent  and  peppery  taste  and  being  soluble  in  dilute  alcohol  and  in 
glycerin. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  root  of  saururus  is  used  in  poultices  as  an  application  to 
I abscesses  and  other  painful  swellings,  and  a decoction  of  it  is  sometimes  employed  in 
strangury  and  other  irritations  of  the  urinary  passages  and  bowels.  It  is  also  directed  in 
a strong  infusion,  of  which  several  ounces  should  be  continuously  given  at  short  inter- 
i vals  when  the  symptoms  are  urgent. 


1428 


SC  AMMONIA  RADIX.— SCAMMONIUM. 


SCAMMONDE  RADIX,  Br. — Scammony-root. 

Racine  de  scammonee,  Fr. ; Scammoniawurzel,  (1. 

SCAMMONIUM,  U.  S.,  Br.— Scammony. 

Scammonee  di  Alep,  Fr. ; Scammonium , G. ; Escamonea , Sp. 

The  root  and  the  resinous  exudation  from  the  root  of  Convolvulus  Scammonia,  Linne. 
Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 187. 

Nat.  Ord. — Convolvulaceae. 

Origin. — The  scammony-plant  is  an  herbaceous,  twining  perennial  growing  in  Syria, 
Asia  Minor,  and  Greece ; it  has  alternate,  triangular-cordate,  very  acute  leaves,  large,  funnel- 
shaped,  pale-yellowish  flowers,  and  ovate-globose  capsules  containing  four  angular  seeds. 

Description. — 1.  Scammony-root.  It  is  .5-1  M.  (20  to  40  inches)  in  length,  after 
drying  about  5 Cm.  (2  inches)  thick  in  the  upper  part,  cylindrical,  somewhat  tapering 
below,  more  or  less  twisted,  with  several  short  stem-fragments  at  the  crown,  longitudinally 
wrinkled,  of  a grayish-  or  yellowish-brown  color  externally  and  grayish  or  brownish- 
white  within.  The  root  is  hard,  has  but  a slight  odor,  and  a sweetish  afterward  acrid 
taste,  and  upon  transverse  section  shows  a thin  bark  about  one-eighth  or  one-sixth  the 
diameter  of  the  root,  and,  like  the  parenchyma  of  the  meditullium,  containing  numerous 
resin-dots,  the  concrete  latex  of  the  milk-vessels ; the  wood  consists  of  a number  of 
separate  groups  of  wood-bundles  varying  in  thickness,  irregularly  arranged,  and  sep- 
arated from  one  another  by  parenchyma  of  variable  thickness. 

2.  Scammonium.  This  is  collected  by  laying  the  upper  portion  of  the  root  bare,  cut- 
ting the  top  off  in  an  oblique  direction,  and  collecting  the  milk-juice  in  shells,  the  con- 
tents of  which  are  mixed  together  with  the  juice  scraped  from  the  root  and  dried.  Scam- 
mony is  met  with  in  commerce  in  irregular  angular  pieces  or  circular  cakes  of  a greenish 
dark  ash-gray  or  dark-brown  nearly  black  color,  of  a peculiar  sour  and  somewhat  cheese- 
like odor,  and  of  a slight  but  distinctly  acrid  taste ; it  breaks  readily  with  an  angular  or 
splintery  fracture,  and  exhibits  in  the  interior  small  fissures  and  cavities  and  a resinous 
lustre.  When  triturated  with  water  it  yields  a greenish  emulsion  ; its  powder  has  a gray 
or  greenish -gray  color.  It  yields  to  alcohol  or  ether  not  less  than  75  (U.  /S'.),  and  some- 
times as  much  as  95,  per  cent,  of  its  weight,  and  when  the  solvent  has  been  evaporated 
and  the  resinous  residue  dissolved  in  warm  solution  of  potassa,  no  precipitate  is  produced 
on  the  addition  of  an  acid.  The  portion  left  undissolved  by  alcohol  or  ether  is  of  a gray 
eolor,  and  is  not  colored  blue  by  iodine. 

The  best  quality  of  scammony  is  known  in  commerce  as  virgin  scammony.  Of  late 
years  scammony  is  usually  sold  in  the  market,  at  least  at  wholesale,  by  the  amount  of 
resin  it  contains — a commendable  custom  which  we  believe  has  been  introduced  in  this 
country  through  the  efforts  of  Dr.  E.  II.  Squibb. 

Adulterations. — A distinction  has  been  sometimes  made  between  Aleppo  and 
Smyrna  scammony,  the  former  being  regarded  as  the  pure  article,  but  we  have  seen  in 
commerce  scammony  sold  as  one  or  the  other  kind  which  was  very  impure.  The  adul- 
terations usually  consist  of  farinaceous  substances,  chalk,  and  earthy  material,  which 
can  easily  be  recognized  by  their  insolubility  in  ether.  Scammony  thus  adulterated  is 
frequently  smooth  externally,  dense,  heavy,  and  effervesces  when  thrown  into  dilute 
hydrochloric  acid,  or  its  decoction  with  water  yields  a blue  color  on  the  addition  of 
iodine.  M.  Conroy  (1883)  reported  an  adulteration  consisting  of  the  resin  prepared 
from  scammony-root,  which  is  recognized  by  its  distinctive  persistent  leathery  odor. 

Montpellier  scammony , employed  to  a limited  extent  in  France,  was  claimed  to  be  the 
milk-juice  of  Cynanchum  monspeliacum,  Linne.  The  commercial  article  was  found  by 
Laval  (1861)  to  contain  from  10  to  21  per  cent,  of  resinous  matter,  50  to  59  of  starch, 
and  11  to  18  of  earthy  substances. 

In  place  of  scammony-root,  we  have  seen  a thin  farinaceous  root  offered,  which  resem- 
bled turpeth-root  (page  903),  but  was  not  identical  with  it. 

Constituents. — Scammony-root  is  stated  to  be  richest  in  resin  immediately  before 
"the  flowering  period.  Good  roots  will  yield  about  5 per  cent,  of  resin.  Hager  found  10 
per  cent,  of  resin,  3 per  cent,  of  tannin,  and  15  per  cent,  of  sugar  and  extractive ; starch 
is  likewise  present.  According  to  the  British  Pharmacopoeia,  scammony  should  contain 
between  80  and  90  per  cent,  of  resin.  The  pure  resin  has  been  named  scammonin : its 
composition,  derivatives,  and  relation  to  allied  resins  have  been  described  on  pages  90o 
and  1369. 


SCILLA. 


1429 


History. — Scammony,  or  at  least  the  concrete  juice  of  a Convolvulus,  was  well 
known  to  the  Greek,  Latin,  and  Arabian  medical  writers,  who  agree  in  ascribing  to  it 
active  irritant  and  purgative  qualities.  It  was  used  externally  in  the  treatment  of 
cutaneous  diseases  and  in  a tampon  to  provoke  abortion.  As  a purgative  they  describe 
its  harsh,  painful,  and  exhausting  action  and  its  cholagogue  qualities,  and  mention  that 
it  may  produce  cold  sweats,  syncope,  and  even  death.  To  guard  against  its  violent 
operation  they  advised  that  it  be  associated  with  certain  gums,  oils,  mucilage,  etc. 

Action  and  Uses. — No  other  purgative  is  so  uncertain  as  scammony,  partly  in 
consequence  of  its  adulteration  with  inert  substances,  and  partly  from  its  slight  solu- 
bility in  the  gastro-intestinal  contents  when  these  are  acid.  According  to  Rutherford 
and  Yignal,  it  is  a cholagogue  of  feeble  power.  It  is  singular  that  while  in  some 
experiments  upon  animals  it  occasioned  active,  exhausting,  and  even  fatal  purgation,  yet 
in  others  it  inflamed  the  bowels  and  killed  the  animals  without  purging  at  all.  The 
actions  of  jalapin  and  convolvulin  or  scammonin  are  said  to  be  identical.  Careful  exper- 
iments show  that  scammonin  is  a less  active  cathartic  than  scammony  itself,  unless  finely 
divided  by  trituration.  It  appears  also  that  in  the  case  of  both  very  slightly  greater 
effects  are  obtained  by  a large  increase  of  the  dose — a result  doubtless  due  to  the  imper- 
fect solubility  of  the  medicine.  This  is  said  to  be  increased  by  the  presence  of  bile. 
That  its  active  principle  is  absorbed  appears  from  the  following  case : A healthy  woman, 
nursing  a healthy  child  two  months  old,  took  a dose  of  scammony  to  relieve  herself  of 
constipation ; she  suffered  no  purgation  or  any  other  symptoms  attributable  to  the  med- 
icine, but  her  child  was  presently  seized  with  violent  cholera  morbus,  which  rapidly  ended 
in  collapse  and  death  (Bull,  de  Therap .,  lxxv.  554). 

Scammony  is  hardly  ever  used  alone  at  the  present  day,  although,  on  account  of  its 
tastelessness,  it  has  been  recommended  as  a purgative  for  children.  Even  in  the  cases 
to  which  it  has  been  thought  peculiarly  applicable  as  a hydragogue,  colocynth,  jalap,  and 
even  gamboge,  are  to  be  preferred,  and  the  same  may  be  said  in  regard  to  its  association 
with  calomel  as  a cholagogue  purgative.  The  compound  powder  of  scammony  is  possibly 
preferable  to  scammony  or  to  jalap  alone  when  a powerful  derivative  action  from  the  brain 
is  desired. 

The  dose  of  ordinary  scammony  is  Gm.  0.60-1.30  (gr.  x-xx),  and  of  pure  scammony 
or  of  its  resin  Gm.  0.30-1  (gr.  v-xv).  It  may  be  given  powdered  in  a wafer,  but  is 
inactive  in  the  pilular  form.  It  is  also  administered  in  emulsion  with  milk,  almond  milk, 
mucilage, or  other  demulcent  sweetened. 

SCILLA,  77.  S.,  Br, — Squill  ; Squills. 

Bulbus  scillse , P.  G. — Scille,  Fr.  Cod. ; Squille,  Fr. ; Meerzwiebel , G. ; Escila , Cebolla 
albarrana , Sp. 

The  bulb  of  Urginea  Scilla,  Steinheil,  s.  Scilla  (Urginea,  Baker)  jnaritima,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Liliaceae. 

Origin. — The  squill  is  indigenous  to  the  basin  of  the  Mediterranean  from  Syria 
westward  to  the  coast  of  the  Atlantic.  It  grows  in  sandy  and  sunny  places  near  the  sea- 
shore, but  is  likewise  found  inland  to  some  extent  and  in  hilly  localities.  Two  varieties 
are  known,  which  differ  only  in  the  color  of  their  bulb-scales,  being  of  a reddish  tint  in 
the  one  and  whitish  in  the  other  variety.  The  leaves  make  their  appearance  during  the 
flowering  period,  and  are  broad-lanceolate,  30-50  Cm.  (12  to  20  inches)  long,  channelled, 
finally  recurved  and  spreading.  The  scape  attains  a height  of  .9-1.2  M.  (3  or  4 feet), 
and  is  terminated  by  a long  raceme  of  whitish  green-nerved  flowers  with  six  stamens 
inserted  on  the  base  of  the  sepals.  Along  the  Mediterranean  the  bulb  is  frequently 
employed  in  the  fresh  state,  but  in  the  United  States  it  is  now  usually  seen  in  dry  seg- 
ments. 

Description. — The  bulb  of  squill  is  broadly  ovate  or  somewhat  pear-shaped,  and  is 
from  7—15  Cm.  (3  to  6 inches)  long,  and  of  the  same  thickness  at  its  lower  portion, 
weighing  sometimes  over  4 pounds.  It  consists  of  a large  number  of  fleshy  scales, 
which  are  either  whitish  or  reddish,  and  are  covered  by  dry  reddish-brown  and  scarious 
scales.  The  bulb  is  collected  while  leafless,  about  the  month  of  August,  freed  from  the 
inert  outer  and  small,  insipid  central  scales  and  from  the  dense  stem  portion  and  rootlets, 
and  then  cut  transversely  into  segments,  which  are  dried  in  the  sun.  Thus  prepared,  it 
is  found  in  the  market,  and  consists  of  narrow  slices  3-6  Mm.  (£  to  \ inch)  wide  and 
2-5  Cm.  (1  or  2 inches)  long,  somewhat  translucent,  yellowish-white  or  reddish,  brittle 
and  pulverizable  when  dry,  but  very  hygroscopic,  and  therefore  often  flexible.  Squill 


1430 


SC  ILL  A. 


is  scentless,  and  even  in  the  fresh  state  is  but  slightly  odorous  ; it  has  a mucilaginous 

When  dried  and  powdered  it  is  easily  converted  into  a 
solid  hard  mass  from  the  absorption  of  moisture.  In 
damp  weather  squill  loses  on  drying  from  10  to  14  per 
cent,  of  its  weight.  On  handling  squill  it  is  apt  to 
cause  irritation  of  the  skin,  due  to  the  sharp-pointed 
raphides  of  calcium  oxalate. 

Constituents. — Squill  has  been  frequently  the 
subject  of  chemical  investigation,  but  even  at  the  pres- 
ent time  the  medicinally  important  principles  of  this 
drug  are  not  satisfactorily  known.  Two  such  princi- 
ples are  usually  distinguished : one,  having  a bitter 
taste,  is  called  scillitin ; the  other,  being  acrid,  has 
received  the  name  skulein.  Wittstein  (1850)  observed 
that  the  expressed  juice  of  fresh  squill  yields  with  alco- 
hol a precipitate  consisting  mainly  of  gum  and  amount- 
ing to  28  per  cent,  of  the  dry  drug ; the  filtrate  was 
freed  from  alcohol  by  evaporation,  fermented  with 
yeast,  and,  after  the  sugar  had  been  thus  destroyed, 
yielded  with  lead  acetate  a slight  precipitate.  After 
removing  the  lead  from  the  filtrate  by  hydrogen 
sulphide  the  resulting  extract  had  a bitter  and  acrid 
taste,  the  latter  of  which  was  removed  by  agitation 
with  lead  hydroxide,  hut  not  by  baryta.  The  earlier 
investigations  were  less  successful.  Vogel’s  and  Til- 
loy’s  scillitin  was  amorphous  and  neutral ; both  regarded 
the  acrid  principle  as  being  volatile.  Landerer  and 
Marais  (1857)  obtained  compounds  which  they  re- 
garded as  alkaloids.  But  Tilloy  (1854)  proved  the 
non-existence  of  such  a body  in  squill,  and  announced 
then  that  squill  does  not  contain  any  volatile  acrid  prin- 
ciple : the  compound  producing  irritation  of  the  skin 
was  by  him  believed  to  be  crystallized  calcium  citrate. 
Labourdais  (1849)  obtained  the  hitter  principle,  after 
precipitating  the  infusion  of  squill  with  lead  acetate,  by  treating  it  with  animal  char- 
coal, and  exhausting  this  with  hot  alcohol ; and  Bley  obtained  it  once  by  this  process 
in  flexible  needles.  The  presence  of  crystals  in  squill  was  recognized  long  ago,  but  these 
were  generally  considered  to  he  either  calcium  tartrate,  carbonate,  or  citrate  until 
Scroff  (1864)  proved  them  to  he  very  fine  and  sharp-pointed  needles  of  calcium  oxa- 
late. Scroff  is  likewise  convinced  of  the  existence  of  a non-volatile  acrid  besides  the 
hitter  principle,  and  of  the  greater  efficacy  of  the  red-colored  variety  of  the  drug.  The 
bitter  principle  forms  a compound  with  tannic  acid  (Pliarmacographia).  Jarmersted 
(1879)  isolated  from  this  precipitate  the  glucoside  scillein , which  is  white  or  yellowish, 
dissolves  in  strong  hydrochloric  acid  with  a red  color,  and  is  decomposed  by  dilute  acids 
into  glucose  and  a resin.  E.  Merck  (1879)  obtained  three  not  quite  pure  principles,  the 
last  two  of  which  are  poisonous — namely,  scillin  (crystalline,  pale-yellow,  sparingly 
soluble  in  water,  more  freely  soluble  in  alcohol  and  hot  ether,  colored  by  sulphuric  acid 
red-brown,  by  nitric  acid  yellow,  and  on  heating  green)  ; scillipicrin  (amorphous,  whitish, 
hygroscopic,  and  bitter)  ; and  scillitoxin  (amorphous,  cinnamon-brown,  insoluble  in  water 
and  ether,  soluble  in  alcohol,  colored  red  and  brown  by  sulphuric  acid  and  orange-red 
and  green  by  nitric  acid).  Schmiedeberg  (1879)  isolated  the  gummy  matter  by  precipi- 
tating the  infusion  with  basic  lead  acetate,  and  afterward  with  lime ; on  decomposing  the 
last  precipitate  with  carbonic  and  oxalic  acids  sinistrin , CgHjoOs,  is  obtained  ; this  is  color- 
less, amorphous,  levogyrate,  and  is  readily  converted  into  levulose  and  another  ferment- 
able but  inactive  sugar.  Scillin  of  Biche  and  Bemont  (1880)  is  probably  identical  with 
sinistrin. 

History. — Squill  was  used  by  the  Greeks  and  their  medical  followers  in  Borne,  Ara- 
bia, and  Europe.  Its  preparations  with  honey  and  vinegar  were  anciently  employed  in 
dropsical  affections,  and  the  latter  were  extolled  in  the  treatment  of  spongy  and  ulcerated 
gums,  ulcerated  throat,  and  debility  of  the  digestive  organs. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  juice  of  the  fresh  plant  acts  upon  the  skin  as  a rubefa- 
cient, and  has  also  occasioned  diuresis.  Even  the  powder  of  the  dried  corm  applied  to 


•ward  bitter  and  acrid  taste. 


Fig.  268. 


Scilla  maritima,  Linnt. 


SCOPARIUS. 


1431 


the  denuded  cutis  has  had  the  same  effect  in  dropsy.  Its  local  action  is  irritating,  which 
is  ascribed  to  the  large  proportion  it  contains  of  lime  oxalate  (?).  Internally,  the  effects 
of  a very  large  dose  of  squill  are  violent  vomiting,  purging,  and  colic,  dysury  or  bloody 
urine,  rapid  breathing,  a cold  skin,  coma,  and  general  convulsions.  It  has  even  destroyed 
life.  In  small  or  medicinal  doses  it  usually  exerts  a diuretic  action,  tends  to  relax  the 
bowels,  and  reduces  the  frequency  and  increases  the  tension  of  the  pulse.  The  charac- 
teristic effects  are  most  distinctly  produced  by  the  powder  or  the  wine  of  squill.  But 
fatal  poisoning  has  been  attributed  to  the  syrup  in  the  cases  of  two  children.  The  symp- 
toms were  pains  in  the  legs,  lividity  of  the  face,  and  hurried  respiration.  The  heart  was 
found  to  have  stopped  in  systole  ( Ther . Gaz.,  x.  788).  The  continued  use  of  squill 
impairs  the  appetite  and  digestion. 

Although  there  is  nothing  in  the  results  of  scientific  investigation  even  to  suggest  that 
squill  acts  upon  the  bronchial  mucous  membrane,  the  much  more  direct  and  conclusive 
evidence  of  clinical  experience  leaves  no  doubt  of  its  great  value  in  bronchitis , whether  of 
an  acute  form,  when  the  sputa  are  tenacious  and  scanty,  or  of  a chronic  type  occurring 
without  complication  or  associated  with  obstructive  disease  of  the  heart  and  pulmonary 
emphysema.  It  is  of  daily  use  as  an  expectorant  in  the  treatment  of  spasmodic  croup , 
but  in  the  form  of  compound  syrup  of  squill,  which  owes  its  efficacy  chiefly  to  the  anti- 
mony it  contains. 

As  a diuretic  squill  is  universally  employed  in  dropsy.  Even  when  the  effusion  is  owing 
to  some  organic  and  incurable  lesion  it  may  often  be  temporarily  evacuated  by  squill.  The 
experimental  researches  into  its  mode  of  action  in  dropsy  have  tended  to  confirm  what  was 
long  ago  established  by  clinical  experience,  that  it  is  most  useful  in  the  passive  forms  of 
the  disease,  when  the  pulse  is  weak  and  the  heart  feeble  or  obstructed,  and  when  there  is 
neither  fever  nor  an  irritable  condition  of  the  kidneys  present.  Undoubtedly,  it  is  oftener 
useful  in  cardiac  than  in  renal,  splenic,  or  hepatic  dropsy.  As  already  mentioned,  it  seems 
probable  that  its  action  is  very  analogous  to  that  of  digitalis.  Within  certain  limits  this 
is  true,  but  is  not  the  whole  truth.  The  diuretic  action  of  neither  medicine  is  due  exclu- 
sively to  its  sensible  sedative  action  on  the  heart.  Squill  is  not  so  apt  as  digitalis  to  cause 
sudden  and  alarming  depression.  The  best  mode  of  using  these  medicines  in  dropsy  is  to 
combine  them  in  the  same  prescription  in  pilular  form,  or  as  tinctures  with  compound 
spirit  of  juniper  or  with  a solution  of  potassium  acetate  in  water.  When  the  stomach 
is  intolerant  of  the  medicine,  it  may  be  administered  by  rubbing  its  tincture  with  that  of 
digitalis  into  the  skin,  or  applying  compresses  saturated  with  these  liquids  to  the  abdomen 
and  covering  them  with  impermeable  cloth.  Scillipicrin  dissolved  in  water  may  be  admin- 
istered hypodermically.  It  is  apt,  however,  to  cause  some  local  irritation.  In  one  case  4 
tablespoonfuls  a day  of  a 2 per  cent,  solution  of  scillipicrin  were  given  without  effect. 
For  subcutaneous  injection  a 10  per  cent,  solution  has  been  preferred  (Fronmiiller).  Pow- 
dered squill,  with  or  without  digitalis,  may  also  be  applied  endermically.  In  the  hydrocele 
of  young  subjects  a cure  has  been  effected  by  applications  of  vinegar  of  squill.  Powdered 
squill  has  been  used  to  remove  warts. 

The  dose  of  squill  in  substance  is  Gin.  0.06-0.20  (gr.  j-iij)  three  times  a day  in  pilular 
form.  It  may  gradually  be  increased  to  Gm.  0.66  (gr.  x)  a day.  As  a general  rule,  if 
it  disturbs  the  stomach  the  dose  should  be  reduced.  An  infusion  is  sometimes  employed, 
which  is  made  with  from  Gm.  2—4  (30—60  grains)  in  Gm.  250  (2  pint)  of  hot  water,  of 
which  from  Gm.  8-16  (2  to  4 fluidrachms)  may  be  given  at  a dose. 

SCOPARIUS,  U.  S. — Scoparius. 

Scoparii  cacumina , Br.  ; Herba  scoparii. — Broom , Irish  broom , E.  ; Genet  d balais,  Fr.  ; 
Beseuginster , Pfriemen  kraut,  G. 

The  tops  of  Cytisus  Scoparius  ( Linne ),  Link,  Sarothamnus  Scoparius,  Koch , Sar. 
vulgaris,  Wimmer,  Genista  scoparia,  Lamarck.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  70. 

Nat.  Ord. — Leguminosae,  Papilionaceae. 

Origin. — Broom  is  a shrub  about  .9-1.8  M.  (3  to  6 feet)  high,  and  grows  in  Western 
Siberia  and  throughout  the  greater  portion  of  Europe,  but  is  more  abundant  in  the 
western  part  of  that  continent  and  in  Great  Britain.  It  is  sometimes  cultivated  in  our 
gardens,  and  is  occasionally  met  with  wild  in  some  of  the  Middle  and  Southern  States. 
It  prefers  a 'sandy  soil,  and  flowers  in  May  and  June.  The  shrub  has  long,  wand-like 
branches,  small  trifoliate  leaves  with  obovate  or  elliptic-lanceolate  sessile  leaflets,  and  pro- 
duces an  abundance  of  large  golden-yellow  papilionaceous  flowers,  and  a flat  dark-brown 
legume,  which  is  white-hairy  on  the  edges,  and  contains  about  twelve  olive-colored,  oblong, 


1432 


SCOPARIUS. 


and,  below,  truncate  seeds.  The  flower-buds  are  in  some  places  used  like  capers,  and  the 
branches  as  a substitute  for  hops. 

Description. — The  green  twigs  constitute  the  portion  generally  employed.  They  are 
long,  thin,  and  flexible,  pentangular,  winged,  but  not  spiny,  smooth,  except  the  extremi- 
ties, which  are  pubescent,  and  are  usually  free  from  leaves  and  flowers.  In  the  fresh 
state  they  have  a peculiar  odor,  but  are  nearly  inodorous  after  drying ; their  taste  is  bitter 
and  disagreeable.  The  flowers  have  been  occasionally  employed  ; on  drying  they  usually 
become  brown  and  their  honey-like  odor  is  almost  entirely  lost ; their  taste  is  nauseous 
and  bitter. 

Constituents. — The  analyses  by  Cadet  de  Gassicourt  (1824)  and  Reinsch  (1846) 
failed  to  isolate  any  important  principle.  Stenhouse  (1851)  obtained  two  interesting 
principles,  scoparin  and  sparteine.  Scop  arm,  C21H22O10,  is  prepared  from  the  concentrated 
decoction  of  broom-tops,  which  gelatinizes  on  standing  ; the  jelly-like  mass  is  expressed 
and  purified  by  repeated  solution  in  hot  water,  and  finally  in  hot  alcohol.  Scoparin  is 
amorphous  and  brittle  or  in  small  crystals,  has  a pale-yellow  color,  yields  with  lead  ace- 
tates green-yellow  precipitates,  and  furnishes  picric  acid  when  treated  with  nitric  acid  ; it 
is  inodorous  and  tasteless.  On  fusing  it  with  potassa,  phloroglucin  and  protocatechuic  acid 
are  produced  (Hlasiwetz).  Sparteine , CI5H26N2,  is  best  obtained,  according  to  Mills  (1861), 
by  exhausting  broom  with  acidulated  water  and  distilling  the  concentrated  liquid  with 
soda.  In  its  pure  state  it  is  a colorless,  transparent,  oily  liquid,  which  becomes  brown  on 
exposure,  has  a slight  aniline-like  odor,  a very  bitter  taste,  a strongly  alkaline  reaction, 
boils  at  288°  C.  (550°  F.),  and  yields  amorphous  and  crystallizable  salts.  The  alkaloid 
is  but  slightly  soluble  in  water  and  alcohol.  150  pounds  of  the  plant  yielded  22  Cc.  of 
sparteine.  The  air-dry  plant  yields  about  5.6  per  cent,  of  ash. 

Allied  Species. — Spartium  junceum,  LinnS , (Spartianthus,  Link,  Genista,  Lamarck ),  Spanish 
broom.  This  evergreen  European  shrub  resembles  the  preceding,  but  has  obtuse-lanceolate,  at 
the  base  Avedge-shaped,  and  on  the  lower  side  soft-hairy  leaves,  and  nearly  reniform  seeds.  The 
branches,  leaves,  and  seeds  have  a bitter  taste,  and  are  stated  to  possess  diuretic,  purgative,  and 
emetic  properties. 

Action  and  Uses. — An  old  woman,  who  drank  of  a decoction  of  the  tops  and  seeds 
of  broom,  sweated  and  vomited  profusely,  had  indistinct  vision,  and  staggered.  These 
symptoms  continued  for  twenty-four  hours  ( Lancet , Oct.  1884,  p.  668).  Sparteine  is  a 
sedative  of  the  spinal  reflex  centres,  and  in  a less  degree  of  the  circulatory  system,  and  it 
even  acts  upon  some  of  the  lower  animals  in  some  measure  as  a narcotic  (Fick).  A drop 
of  sparteine  introduced  by  Schroff  into  a rabbit’s  mouth  occasioned  spasms  of  the  muscles 
of  the  spine  and  limbs  and  paralysis  of  the  latter,  slowing  of  the  respiration  and  heart, 
and  death  in  six  minutes.  On  dissection  the  intestine  responded  but  feebly  to  stimula- 
tion, the  heart,  except  the  auricles,  not  at  all,  and  the  venous  system  was  gorged  with 
blood.  The  phenomena  noted  by  Fick  were  somnolence,  a staggering  gait,  at  first 
extreme  frequency  of  the  pulse  and  respiration,  and  subsequently  great  dyspnoea  and 
slowing  and  feebleness  of  the  heart,  and  finally  death  in  convulsion,  with  dilated  pupils. 
Its  effects  have  caused  it  to  be  compared  with  coniine.  Leech  states  that  he  took  5 
grains  of  it  without  any  unpleasant  effect  ( Practitioner , xxxix.  373),  and  Prior  observed 
secondary  effects  in  one  case  only,  and  after  a dose  of  Gm.  2 (30  grains).  They  consisted 
of  arhythmical  heart-action,  nausea,  giddiness,  and  a sense  of  weight  in  the  limbs 
( Edinb . Med.  Jour.,  xxxiii.  567).  In  health  it  does  not  seem  to  be  diuretic  (Masius, 
Times  and  Gaz.,  xi.  403). 

Broom  is  applicable  to  all  forms  of  chronic  dropsy  as  one  of  the  most  efficient  of  hydra- 
gogues,  acting  both  by  the  bowels  and  the  kidneys.  It  is  best  given  in  a decoction  pre- 
pared by  boiling  Gm.  16  (§ss)  of  the  tops  in  Gm.  250  (J  pint)  of  water  in  a covered 
vessel  for  ten  minutes.  This  quantity  may  be  taken  in  divided  doses  in  twenty-four 
hours,  or  the  officinal  decoction  (British  Pharmacopoeia)  may  be  used  instead.  A com- 
pound decoction,  which  is  still  more  efficient,  may  be  prepared  by  boiling  broom  tops  and 
dandelion,  of  each  Gm.  16  (£  ounce)  in  Gm.  750  (1 J pints)  of  water  to  Gm.  500  (1  pint), 
and  near  the  close  of  the  process  adding  Gm.  16  (-^  ounce)  of  juniper-berries.  When  cold 
the  decoction  should  be  strained.  Gm.  36-64  (1  or  2 fluidounces)  may  be  given  at  a dose. 

Sparteine  may  be  employed  in  all  cases  adapted  to  the  use  of  digitalis  or  digitaline — 
i.  e.  when  impaired  power  of  the  heart  and  a diminished  secretion  of  urine  coincide.  But, 
although  it  is  inferior  in  power  to  digitalis,  it  is  a convenient  and  safe  substitute  where 
the  latter  is  not  tolerated,  and  also  to  sustain  the  action  when  it  may  seem  imprudent  to 
prolong  the  use  of  digitalis  (Stoessel,  Centralbl.  f.  d.  g.  Ther.,v.  163  ; Gluzinski,  Therap. 
Gaz.,  xi.  263).  It  results  from  See’s  observations  (1885}  that  sparteine  augments  the 


SCBOFHULARIA. 


1433 


action  of  the  heart  and  arteries,  and  is  more  prompt  and  persistent  than  digitalis  in  pro- 
ducing these  effects,  as  well  as  in  reducing  to  order  arhythmical  heart  movements.  But, 
unlike  digitalis,  it  renders  the  pulse  more  frequent.  See  held  it  to  be  indicated  in  all  cases 
of  irregular  action  of  the  heart  due  either  to  weakness  of  the  heart-muscle  or  to  valvular 
disease,  as  well  as  to  cases  of  abnormal  .slowness  of  the  organ  produced  by  its  functional 
exhaustion  ( Comptes  rendusde  V Acad,  des  Sciences).  The  action  on  the  pulse  attributed 
by  him  to  sparteine  is,  however,  the  opposite  of  that  observed  by  Clarke,  at  least  in  cases 
where  the  pulse  is  abnormally  rapid.  The  latter  states  that  the  arterial  tension  is  raised, 
the  skin  is  flushed  and  warm,  and  the  pulse-rate  is  gradually  lowered  until  it  reaches  or 
approaches  the  normal.  The  departures  from  this  rule  seemed  to  be  exceptional  (Am. 
Jour.  Med.  Sci.,  Oct.  1887,  p.  363.  Compare  Griffe,  Pick,  Legris,  Therap.  Gaz.,x ii.  108). 
In  the  treatment  of  cases  connected  with  obstructive  heart-disease  Clarke  found  that  small 
doses  were  preferable  to  large  ; the  former — e.  g.  Gm.  0.004-0.005  (gr.  yg— tV)  produced 
a maximum  effect  in  regulating  the  pulse,  quieting  palpitation  and  violent  cardiac  pulsa- 
tion. Larger  doses,  Gm.  0.06-0.12  (gr.  j-ij),  augmented  the  force  of  the  heart-beats  and 
the  arterial  tension,  and  sometimes  even  caused  distress.  In  exceptional  cases  to  these 
effects  were  added  tightness  of  the  chest  and  sharp  pains  about  the  heart,  and  a great 
subsidence  of  the  pulse-rate  below  the  normal.  Nausea  occurred  in  a few  cases,  and 
paresis  of  the  lower  limbs  seems  to  have  followed  its  use  (Bruen,  University  Med.  May.} 
i.  223).  Of  the  special  forms  of  disease  in  which  sparteine  gives  relief  Clarke  states — 
1,  that  in  mitral  regurgitation  the  results  were  very  striking;  2,  in  mitral  stenosis  the 
benefits  were  less  and  less  prolonged ; 3,  in  aortic  regurgitation  with  greatly  enlarged  and 
excited  heart  small  doses  were  useful ; 4,  in  “ asthma ” the  influence  was  good,  but  very  tardy  ; 
5,  in  palpitation  without  organic  disease  of  the  heart  the  relief  was  immediate  ; and,  6,  in 
Grave  s disease  it  occasioned  great  improvement.  When  dropsy  is  associated  with  any  of 
these  anatomical  conditions,  it  is  benefited  by  sparteine,  but  the  medicine  has  no  effect  on 
renal  or  abdominal  dropsy  depending  on  hepatic  or  splenic  disease.  When  given  inter- 
nally in  doses  of  Gm.  0.004-0.016  (gr-y-g— i)>  its  influence  is  felt  within  thirty  or  forty- 
five  minutes,  and  lasts  four  or  five  hours,  and  when  taken  regularly  for  several  days  or 
weeks  its  effect  usually  continues  four,  or  even  six,  days  after  its  administration  has  been 
suspended.  The  stimulant  action  of  sparteine  on  the  heart  has  been  used  by  Ball  and 
Jennings  to  sustain  that  organ  during  the  treatment  of  the  opium  habit.  Sometimes 
nitro-glycerin  has  been  associated  with  it  in  such  cases  ( Practitioner , xxxviii.  459  ; 
xxxix.  132). 

The  dose  of  sparteine  recommended  by  See  was  about  Gm.  0.12  (gr.  ij)  a day  ; by  Prior, 
Gm.  0.01-0.02  (gr.  y-y)  several  times  a day ; by  Nothnagel  arid  by  Voigt,  Gm.  0.001- 
0.004  (gr.  -^y-yy)  ; by  Legris,  Gm.  0.05-0.25  (gr.  1-iv)  a day;  Houde,  Gm.  0.02-0.10 
(gr.  -i— 1L)  in  five  daily  doses;  and  Clarke  recommends  Gm.  0.004  (gr.  y1^-)  every  four 
hours,  which,  he  says,  may  be  increased  gradually  to  Gm.  0.80  (gr.  xij)  in  twenty-four 
hours  without  occasioning  any  toxic  symptoms. 

Ulexine,  the  alkaloid  of  TJlex  europaeus,  appears  to  be  nearly  identical  in  its  action 
with  sparteine  and  cytisine,  rendering  the  movements  of  the  heart  slower  and  more  vigor- 
ous and  contracting  the  arteries,  as  digitalis  does,  and  so  occasioning  diuresis,  which, 
however,  is  much  more  transient  than  that  due  to  foxglove.  In  poisonous  doses  these 
alkaloids  produce  cardiac  paralysis.  Milk  given  by  cattle  which  have  eaten  ulex  has 
poisoned  a child  fed  upon  it.  Robert,  from  whom  these  statements  are  derived,  suggests 
as  a proper  dose  of  ulexine  nitrate  Gm.  0.003-0.005  (yV~iV)>  to  be  given  subcutan- 
eously ( Therap . Gaz .,  xiv.  475). 

SCROPHULARIA. — Figwort  ; Scrofula-plant. 

Serofulaire , Fr.  Cod.  ; Kropfwurz , Knotenwurz , G. ; Escrofularia,  Sp. 

Scrophularia  nodosa,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Scrophulariaceae. 

Origin  and  Description. — Figwort  is  a perennial  herb  growing  in  damp  places 
in  Europe  and  North  America.  The  American  plant  is  usually  taller,  growing  to  the 
height  of  1.2-1. 5 M.  (4  or  5 feet),  and  has  an  obtusely  angled  stem,  but  otherwise 
agrees  closely  with  the  European  plant ; it  was  formerly  regarded  as  a distinct  species, 
Scrophularia  marilandica,  Linne.  The  plant  has  a horizontal  branching  fleshy  rhizome , 
to  which  numerous  oblong  or  oval  tubers  of  the  thickness  of  a thumb  are  attached.  The 
leaves  are  opposite,  petiolate,  ovate-oblong,  rounded  or  heart-shaped  at  the  base,  and  cut- 
serrate  on  the  margin.  The  flowers  are  in  a terminal  loose  panicle,  have  a greenish- 


1434 


SCUTELLARIA. 


brown,  tubular-globose,  five-lobed  corolla  with  four  stamens,  and  produce  a two-celled 
many-seeded  capsule.  The  fresh  plant,  bruised,  has  an  unpleasant  odor  and  a nauseous, 
bitter,  and  acrid  taste;  on  drying  it  loses  about  75  per  cent,  in  weight  and  becomes 
nearly  inodorous. 

Constituents. — The  fresh  flowering  plant  was  analyzed  by  Walz  (1853),  who  found 
in  the  aqueous  distillate  acetic  and  propionic  acids  and  a stearopten,  scrophularosmin.  On 
treating  the  decoction  with  lead  acetate  and  subacetate,  tannic,  tartaric,  citric,  and 
malic  acids,  pectin,  and  coloring  matter  were  precipitated,  and  the  filtrate,  after  freeing 
it  from  lead,  yielded  with  tannin  a precipitate  containing  scrophularin.  This  principle 
crystallizes  in  scales,  has  a bitter  taste,  and  is  soluble  in  water  and  alcohol.  Scrophularia 
aquatica,  Linne , contains  the  same  principle,  and  in  addition  thereto  a resinous  body, 
scrophulacrin , which  is  soluble  in  ether. 

Action  and  Uses. — S.  nodosa  and  S.  aquatica  appear  to  possess  analogous  quali- 
ties. The  generic  name  of  the  plant  seems  to  have  been  gained  through  a popular 
belief  that  it  was  useful  in  scrofula.  It  was  employed  in  the  glandular  form  of  the 
disease,  and  also  in  cutaneous  affections  originating  in  the  strumous  diathesis.  It  was  an 
ingredient  of  an  ointment  much  used  in  the  treatment  of  itch.  It  was  also  applied  to 
hsemorrhoids  and  anal  ulcers  and  as  a dressing  for  unhealthy  wounds  and  sores  generally. 
The  fresh  juice,  and  also  a decoction  of  the  leaves  or  root,  were  used,  the  latter  being 
made  with  Gm.  16  to  Gm.  500  (^ss  in  Oj)  of  water. 

SCUTELLARIA,  U.  8.— Skullcap. 

Hoodwort , Mad  weed,  E.  ; Scutellaire , Fr. ; Relmhraut,  JSchildkraut,  G. 

Scutellaria  lateriflora,  Linne. 

Mat.  Ord. — Labiatse,  Stachydeae. 

Description. — This  species,  in  some  places  known  as  mad-dog  skullcap , is  a common 
North  American  perennial  herb,  growing  in  swampy  and  wet  places.  Its  stem  is  about 
60  Cm.  (2  feet)  high,  quadrangular,  smooth,  and  much-branched.  The  leaves  are  oppo- 
site, petiolate,  about  5 Cm.  (2  inches)  long,  oval-lanceolate,  pointed,  coarsely  serrate, 
rounded  at  the  base,  thin,  and  smooth.  The  flowers  are  small  in  slender  axillary  leafy 
racemes,  with  a minute  filiform  bract  at  the  base  of  each  pedicle,  and  with  a pale-blue 
or  purplish  bilabiate  corolla.  The  calyx  is  divided  into  two  entire  lips,  the  upper  with  a 
helmet-like  appendage  on  the  back.  The  herb  flowers  in  July,  and  should  then  be  col- 
lected; its  loss  on  drying  amounts  to  from  75  to  80  per  cent.  It  has  a slight  odor  and 
bitterish  taste.  Its  constituents  have  not  been  ascertained. 

Allied  Species. — The  following  and  probably  other  indigenous  species  of  Scutellaria  possess  a 
more  decidedly  bitter  taste,  and  are  occasionally  employed  : 

Scut,  integrifolia,  Linn6.  It  is  30  to  45  Cm.  (12  to  18  inches)  high,  minutely  hairy  all  over, 
has  lance-oblong  or  linear-oblong,  mostly  entire,  short  petiolate  leaves,  and  terminal  racemes  of 
blue  flowers,  which  are  about  25  Mm.  (1  inch)  long. 

Scut,  pilosa,  Linnt *.  It  is  30  to  60  Cm.  (1  or  2 feet)  high,  covered  with  spreading  hairs,  has 
rhombic-  or  oblong-ovate,  crenate,  petiolate  leaves  in  distant  pairs,  and  short  terminal  racemes 
of  rather  large  purplish-blue  flowers. 

Scut,  galericulata,  LinnS.  It  is  somewhat  downy,  has  short-stalked,  lance-ovate,  crenately 
serrate  leaves,  which  are  rounded  or  heart-shaped  at  the  base,  and  bear  in  the  axils  of  the  upper 
leaves  rather  large  blue  flowers,  which  are  turned  to  one  side.  This  species  is  indigenous  to 
Europe,  Northern  Asia,  and  the  northern  section  of  North  America. 

Brunella  (Prunella)  vulgaris,  Linne. — Heal-all,  Self-heal,  E.;  Paquerette,  Fr. ; Braunelle, 
Braunheil,  G. — This  is  a perennial  herb,  common  in  fields,  grassy  places,  and  in  woods  in  North 
America,  Asia,  and  Europe.  Its  ascending  stem  is  about  30  Cm.  (12  inches)  long;  the  leaves  are 
about  38  Mm.  (1?>-  inches)  long,  petiolate,  oblong-ovate,  entire  or  somewhat  toothed,  and  more  or 
less  hairy.  The  flowers  are  purplish-blue  and  form  a dense  leafy-bracted  spike.  The  herb  is 
nearly  inodorous,  and  has  a bitterish  and  somewhat  astringent  taste. 

Constituents. — These  plants  contain  principles  similar  to  those  found  in  other  plants 
of  the  same  order.  Cadet  de  Gassicourt  (1824)  obtained  from  the  official  species  a little 
volatile  oil,  fat,  tannin,  a trace  of  bitter  principle,  sugar,  etc. 

Action  and  Uses. — Skullcap  has  been  employed  in  extract,  fluid  extract,  and 
infusion,  and  has  had  some  repute  in  intermittent  fever  and  as  a nervine — that  is,  in  dis- 
eases presenting  a depressed  and  disordered  condition  of  the  nervous  functions.  It  has 
even  been  recommended  in  epilepsy  when  continuously  given  in  a decoction  made  with 
Gm.  64  to  Gm.  250  (,§ij  in  ^viij)  of  water.  It  is  one  of  several  stimulants  occasionally 
useful  in  nocturnal  incontinence  of  urine.  There  is  no  evidence  of  its  virtues  which 
entitles  it  to  a place  among  official  drugs. 


SEDTJM. 


1435 


SEDUM.— Stonecrop  ; Mossy  Stonecrop. 

Joubarhe  acre , Poivre  des  mur allies,  Fr. ; Mauerpfeffer,  Steinkraut , G.  ; Siempreviva 
menor , Sp. 

Sedum  acre,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Crassulacese. 

Description. — This  little  moss-like  spreading  plant  is  indigenous  to  Europe,  where 
it  grows  in  dry  fields  and  on  old  walls ; it  is  cultivated  in  gardens  and  runs  wild  in  some 
places  in  North  America.  Its  leaves  are  3-6  Mm.  (4  to  i inch)  long,  alternate,  nearly 
imbricate,  in  about  six  spirally  turned  rows,  ovate,  thick,  convex  on  the  back,  punc- 
tate, and  smooth.  The  flowers  are  on  one  side  of  the  branched  inflorescence,  form- 
ing scropoid  cymes,  and  have  four  or  five  yellow  petals,  the  same  number  of  pistils, 
and  twice  that  number  of  stamens.  The  plant  is  inodorous  and  has  a mucilaginous 
and  acrid  taste. 

Constituents. — Mossy  stonecrop  contains  much  mucilage  and  malates  (Vauquelin), 
also  rutin  (Mylius)  ; its  acrid  principle  has  not  been  isolated. 

Allied  Species. — Sedum  deudroideum,  Mocino , is  used  in  Mexico  like  the  preceding.  Sedum 
Telephium,  Linne. — Live-for-ever,  Garden  opine,  E. ; Joubarbe  des  vignes,  Grassette,  Fr. ; 
Grosse  Fetthenne,  G. — It  is  indigenous  to  Europe,  and  in  the  United  States  has  escaped  from 
cultivation.  It  has  an  ascending  stem,  purplish  or  greenish  flowers,  and  oval  or  ovate,  obtuse 
and  toothed  sessile  leaves,  which  are  5-8  Cm.  (2  or  3 inches)  long,  and  are  either  alternate,  op- 
posite, or  in  whorls  of  three. 

Sempervivum  tectorum,  Linne. — Houseleek,  E.;  Grande  joubarbe,  Fr. ; Dachwurz,  G. ; 
Siempreviva  major,  Sp. — It  is  indigenous  to  the  Alps,  but  now  grows  spontaneously  through- 
out Europe  on  roofs  and  old  walls,  and,  with  several  allied  species,  is  cultivated  in  North  America. 
It  has  numerous  fleshy  rosulate  radical  leaves,  which  are  2-5  Cm.  (1  to  2 inches)  long,  obovate 
in  shape,  of  a green  color,  and  on  the  margin  stiff-hairy,  and  of  a brownish  or  reddish  color. 
The  flowers  are  rose-colored  and  purplish.  The  leaves  have  an  acidulous  taste  and  contain 
malates. 

Pexthorum  sedoides,  Linn6  (Ditch  stonecrop),  is  not  fleshy,  has  a stem  about  40  Cm.  (16 
inches)  high,  lanceolate-serrate  leaves,  and  terminal  spike-like  secund  racemes  of  greenish  or  yel- 
lowish flowers  having  a five-beaked  ovary.  The  plant  is  common  in  wet  places  in  North  America, 
and  is  used  in  nasal  catarrh. 

Action  and  Uses. — In  man  the  expressed  juice,  in  large  doses,  acts  as  an  acrid 
emetic  and  purgative,  and  is  capable  of  blistering  the  skin.  Sedum  was  formerly  in  com- 
mon use  as  a remedy  for  scrofula , and  was  administered  internally  in  decoction  and  applied 
to  the  ulcerated  skin,  etc.  Its  emeto-cathartic  action  was  employed  in  the  treatment  of 
intermittent  fever , and  also  in  dropsy  and  epilepsy , with  a certain  degree  of  success,  but 
the  plant  appears  to  have  been  found  more  really  useful  when  it  was  applied  bruised  or 
its  expressed  juice  was  used  as  an  application  to  scrofulous,  cancerous,  and  other  ulcers , 
as  a resolvent  to  enlarged  lymphatic  glands , and  as  a dressing  for  chronic  diseases  of  the 
skin.  The  juice  has  also  been  used  to  remove  warts  and  corns.  A concentrated  decoc- 
tion of  stonecrop  in  beer,  administered  to  diphtheritic  patients,  is  said  to  soften  the  mem- 
branes and  cause  their  expulsion  with  vomiting  ( Therap . Gaz.Ax.  264).  This  mode  of 
using  it  is  accused  of  causing  inordinate  vomiting  and  pulmonary  congestion,  and  instead 
of  it  the  fluid  extract  may  be  applied  at  intervals  of  three  minutes  for  half  an  hour  by 
means  of  a brush,  either  pure  or  in  the  following  mixture  : R.  Fluid  ext.  of  sedum  f^j  ; 
oil  of  turpentine,  lactic  acid,  of  each  f^ij.  The  application  tends  to  produce  vomiting, 
or  it  may  be  provoked  mechanically  while  the  softened  and  detached  membrane  is  ex- 
pelled (ibid.,  p.  449).  The  dried  plant  was  prescribed  internally  in  powder  in  the  dose 
of  Gm.  0.8—1  (gr.  xij-xv),  or  a decoction  was  made  with  a handful  of  it  in  a pint  of 
beer.  The  juice  was  given  in  doses  of  Gm.  8-12  ^iij),  or,  as  others  state,  of  from 
Gm.  0.5-2  (gr.  viij-xxx),  in  wine.  Externally,  the  bruised  fresh  plant  was  generally 
preferred. 

Houseleek  has  been  described  as  refrigerant,  astringent,  antispasm odic,  and  deter- 
gent. Its  expressed  juice  was  once  prized  in  dysentery  and  in  hysterical  disorders,  and 
externally  as  a dressing  for  ulcers  and  chronic  skin  diseases,  haemorrhoids , etc.  It  is 
still  used  to  soften  corns  and  warts.  Identical  virtues  have  been  ascribed  to  S.  tele- 
phium. 

S.  latifolium  is  related  to  be  used  by  the  Cree  Indians  as  a tea.  and  they  apply  the 
fresh-chewed  leaves  to  wounds,  etc.  ( Therap . Gaz.,  viii.  398). 


1436 


SELIN  UM. — SENEGA . 


SELINUM . — M ARSH-P  ARSLE  Y . 

Radix  olsnitii. — Selin  ( Persil ) des  marais.  Fr. ; Sumpfsilge,  Elsenich.  G. 

The  root  of  Selinum  (Thysselinum,  Hoffmann , Peucedanum,  Moench ) palustre,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Umbelliferse,  Orthospermae. 

Origin. — This  is  a perennial  plant  indigenous  to  Europe,  and  growing  in  swampy  and 
moist  localities.  It  is  about  1.2  M.  (4  feet)  high,  has  twice  or  thrice  pinnately  divided 
and  cleft  leaves  with  linear-lanceolate  lobes,  large  and  lax  compound  umbels  of  white 
flowers,  and  oval-oblong  brown  fruits. 

Description. — The  root  is  about  15  Cm.  (6  inches)  long,  in  the  upper  part  nearly  25 
Mm.  (1  inch)  thick,  one-  or  several-headed,  annulate  above,  with  deep  longitudinal 
wrinkles,  grayish-brown,  and  with  scattered  whitish  suberous  warts.  The  bark  is  thick, 
spongy,  and  brown,  and  contains  a circle  of  rather  large  laticiferous  vessels  ; the  meditul- 
lium  is  soft  and  often  radially  cleft.  The  root  has  a strong,  disagreeable,  somewhat  tere- 
binthinate  odor  and  a pungent  and  acrid  taste. 

Constituents. — The  chemical  constituents  are  analogous  to  those  of  other  umbel- 
liferous roots — volatile  oil,  mucilage,  sugar,  etc.  Peschier’s  selinic  acid  has  not  been 
further  investigated. 

Allied  Plants.  (See  Heracleum,  p.  812),  Imperatoria  (p.  864),  and  Levisticum  (p.  935). 

Action  and  Uses. — The  juice  of  this  plant  is  said  to  be  irritating,  and  even  caustic, 
in  its  action.  Many  years  ago  it  was  found  to  be  a popular  remedy  for  epilepsy  in  the 
Russian  province  of  Courland.  It  afterward  attracted  a good  deal  of  attention  in  Paris, 
and  received  for  a time  greater  credit  than  it  deserved.  It  was  exhibited  in  powder  in 
the  dose  of  Gm.  2-4  (gr.  xxx-lx),  several  times  a day.  The  medicine  is  no  longer 
employed  in  epilepsy. 


SENEGA,  U.  S. — Senega. 


Senegse  radix , Br. ; Radix  senegse , P.  G. — Seneka-root , Senega  snaheroot , E. ; Polygale 
de  Virginie,  Fr.  Cod  ; Senegawurzel , G. ; Polygala  de  Virginie , Sp. 

The  root  of  Polygala  Senega,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Polygalacese. 

Origin. — Senega  is  a native  of  North  America  from  Canada  southward  to  South 
Carolina  and  westward  to  Wisconsin.  It  has  numerous  slender  stems  about  30  Cm.  (1 
foot)  high  from  each  root.  The  leaves  are  alternate,  sessile,  lanceolate  or  oblong-lanceo- 
late, rough  on  the  margin,  otherwise  smooth,  and  narrowed  to  both  ends.  The  flowers 
are  nearly  sessile,  in  slender  terminal  spikes,  and  have  five  sepals,  of  which  the  two  lateral 
ones  are  round,  petaloid,  and  rose-colored  ; the  three  petals  are  whitish.  Senega  flowers 
in  May  and  June,  and  ripens  its  small  two-celled  and  two-seeded  capsule  in  July.  The 
root  is  collected  in  autumn,  mainly  in  the  Southern  and  Western  States. 

Description. — Senega-root  has  a head  or  crown  which  is  12-25  Mm.  (i  or  1 inch) 

in  diameter,  very  knotty  from  the  numer- 
Fig.  269.  ous  thin  remnants  of  stems,  and  is  below 

contracted  into  the  root,  having  a diameter 


Fig.  270. 


Senega-root : section  showing  one-sided  growth  of  wood 
and  inner  bark,  magnified  18  diameters. 


Transverse  sections  of  Senega-root. 


of  4—6  Mm.  (£  or  4 inch).  The  root  is  10—15  Cm.  (4  or  6 inches)  long,  and  divided  into 


SENEGA. 


1437 


several  branches  nearly  uniform  in  thickness,  which  are  tapering  below,  usually  spread- 
ing, more  or  less  tortuous,  fleshy  and  cylindrical  when  fresh,  but  after  drying  twisted 
and  furnished  with  a projecting  ridge  or  keel,  which  runs  around  the  root  in  about  one 
spiral  turn  from  near  the  base  to  the  tip.  Opposite  the  keel  are  sometimes  seen  irreg- 
ular annulations ; otherwise  the  root  is  longitudinally  wrinkled.  Externally,  it  varies 
in  color  between  yellowish-gray  and  brownish-yellow,  and  is  whitish  internally.  When 
cut  transversely  it  presents  a porous,  yellowish  radially  striate  ligneous  portion  and  a thick 
white  bark.  The  wood  is  circular  near  the  crown,  and  surrrounded  by  bark  nearly  uniform 
in  thickness.  At  some  distance  from  the  head  the  wood  presents  a more  or  less  irregular 
appearance,  being  rounded  on  one  side  and  only  partially  developed  on  the  opposite  side. 
The  bark  is  seen  to  consist  of  two  layers,  the  inner  one  of  which  is  found  chiefly  on  the 
rounded  side  of  the  wood,  and  projects  more  or  less  conically  into  the  keel,  which  is 
therefore  formed  by  the  one-sided  development  of  the  inner  bark.  On  soaking  the  root 
in  water  the  outer  bark  swells  to  a greater  extent  than  the  inner  layer,  and  the  root 

becomes  again  nearly  cylindrical.  Senega-root  has  a slight  odor  when  dry,  but  the 

liquid  preparations  of  it  have  a characteristic  rather  nauseous  odor ; the  taste  is 

sweetish,  and  afterward  persistently  acrid.  The  root  is  brittle  and  breaks  with  a short 

fracture. 

Senega-root  of  the  above  description  is  collected  in  Virginia  and  westward  to  Arkansas 
and  Missouri,  and  is  sometimes  designated  as  “ Southern  senega.”  Since  about  1870 
senega  of  much  larger  dimensions  has  frequently  been  seen  in  the  market ; the  head  is 
often  5-8  Cm.  (2  or  3 inches),  and  the  top  portion  of  the  root  sometimes  2 Cm.  (|  inch) 
thick ; the  root  is  less  contorted,  more  fleshy,  and  the  branches  show  the  keel  often  rather 
indistinctly.  Prof.  Lloyd  (1881)  has  shown  that  this  “ Northern  senega  ” is  derived  from 
a variety  of  Polygala  senega  growing  in  Minnesota  and  Wisconsin ; from  the  lattter  state 
we  have  also  roots  agreeing  in  every  respect  with  Southern  senega. 

Constituents. — The  acrid  taste  of  senega-root  is  due  to  senegin  (Gehlen,  1804), 
polygalin , or  polygalic  acid  (Peschier,  1821).  Quevenne  (1836)  prepared  it  in  a nearly 
pure  condition,  and  Procter  (1859)  obtained  5J  per  cent,  of  it  by  exhausting  the  root 
with  60  per  cent,  alcohol,  concentrating  the  tincture  to  about  one-half  the  weight  of  the 
root,  removing  coloring  matter  by  means  of  ether,  and  mixing  the  syrupy  liquid  with 
strong  alcohol  and  ether,  which  precipitates  the  polygalic  acid  as  a light  fawn-colored 
powder,  requiring  to  be  washed  with  a mixture  of  ether  and  alcohol ; the  mother-liquor, 
from  which  Procter  obtained  a small  quantity  of  crystals,  seems  to  contain  the  salt  of  an 
organic  acid.  Precipitation  with  baryta  gave  to  Christophsohn  a yield  of  21  per  cent,  of 
white  amorphous  senegin.  Polygalin  of  Peschier  is  volatile,  and  is  contained  in  the  aque- 
ous distillate  of  the  root,  therefore  identical  with  the  trace  of  volatile  oil  observed  by 
Dulong  (1827).  Bucholz,  and  afterward  Bolley  (1854),  regarded  senegin  as  identical 
with  saponin  ; and  this  view  seems  to  be  sustained  by  the  observations  of  Christophsohn 
(1874)  and  Schneider  (1875).  But  Quevenne  obtained  from  an  aqueous  solution  of 
senegin  only  a slight  precipitate  with  lead  acetate,  which  disappeared  on  the  addition 
of  more  of  the  reagent ; while  Rochleder  and  Schwarz  state  that  saponin  yields  with  the 
same  salt  a gelatinous  precipitate,  which,  according  to  Bucholz,  is  soluble  in  acetic  acid. 
According  to  Braconnot  and  Bussy,  saponin  is  not  precipitated  by  lead  acetate.  On 
the  other  hand,  polygalic  acid,  like  saponin,  is  precipitated  from  its  aqueous  solution  by 
baryta ; the  products  of  decomposition  of  the  two  bodies  by  acids  appear  to  be  identical ; 
and  the  gelatinous  mass  observed  by  Quevenne  to  be  produced  from  his  polygalic  acid 
with  cold  concentrated  hydrochloric  acid  and  with  boiling  dilute  mineral  acids  appears  to 
be  sapogenin.  Evidently  further  investigations  are  required  to  determine  the  chemical 
relations  of  these  bodies.  According  to  Trommsdorff  (1832)  and  Schneider,  the  activity 
of  senega  resides  chiefly  in  the  cortical  portion  ; however,  the  wood  of  the  large  senega 
described  above  is  quite  acrid,  though  less  so  than  the  bark.  The  odor  of  senega  is  partly 
due  to  methylsalicylate,  as  was  shown  by  Reuter  (1889). 

Liquid  preparations  of  senega  are  apt  to  become  gelatinous,  which  property  is  usually 
ascribed  to  the  presence  of  pectin  compounds,  but  is  very  likely,  at  least  in  part,  due  to 
sapogenin,  generated  under  the  influence  of  acids  or  of  other  compounds ; the  jelly  is  ren- 
dered soluble  again  on  the  addition  of  an  alkali.  Fliickiger  ( Pharmakognosie , 2d  edit.) 
obtained  from  powdered  senega  by  ether  8.68  per  cent,  of  fixed  oil  containing  free  acids, 
and,  after  saponification  and  acidulation  of  the  lye,  yielding  a distillate  having  the  odor 
of  acetic  and  valerianic  acids.  The  virgineic  acid  of  Quevenne  and  the  bitter  principle 
isolusin  of  Peschier  have  not  been  investigated.  Other  less  important  constituents  of 
senega  are  a little  resin,  7 per  cent,  of  sugar,  malic  acid,  etc. 


1438 


SENNA . 


Allied  Roots  and  Substitutions. — Polygala  Boykinu,  Nuttall , a plant  growing  in  the  South- 
ern and  South-western  States  of 
North  America,  has  a root  which 
has  been  used  by  Dr.  J.  II.  Gunn 
(1881)  in  place  of  senega,  and 
which  has  the  same  appearance 
as  rather  small  specimens  of  the 
latter,  but  is  destitute  of  the  keel, 
and  has  a cylindrical  wood  and 
a thinner  uniform  bark.  We  be- 
lieve this  to  be  identical  with  the 
white  or  false  senega  which  was 
quite  common  in  the  market  for 
several  years  after  1875,  but  ap- 
pears to  be  no  longer  met  with  at 
the  present  time.  It  was  said  to 
have  been  collected  in  South- 
western  Missouri.  This  root 
yielded  to  George  Goebel  (1881), 
by  Quevenne’s  process,  3 per  cent,  of  senegin,  and  all  preparations  made  with  it  were  much  lighter 
in  color  than  the  corresponding  preparations  of  true  senega. 

Another  kind  of  so-called  white  senega  which  we  have  seen  was  amylaceous  internally,  and 
had  none  of  the  prominent  characteristics  of  the  pharmacopoeial  drug. 

Ginseng-root  and  the  rhizome  of  Cypripedium  are  sometimes  found  among  commercial  senega 
as  accidental  impurities ; they  do  not  resemble  senega-root,  and  are  easily  distinguished  from  it. 
The  same  may  also  be  said  of  the  roots  of  Ionidium  Ipecacuanha  (p.  895),  Cynanchum  Yince- 
toxicum,  and  of  valerian,  which  have  occasionally  been  mentioned  in  Europe  as  adulterations 
of  senega. 

Action  and  Uses. — Physiological  investigation  of  the  action  of  senega  and  saponin 
has  shed  no  light  upon  their  clinical  applications.  They  are  practically  useless  as  anaes- 
thetics and  cardiac  sedatives.  Nor  does  their  mode  of  action  help  to  explain  the  recog- 
nized utility  of  senega  in  the  dilferent  forms  of  bronchial  and  pulmonary  disorder  in 
which  it  has  been  found  advantageous  These  are,  first,  typhoid  pneumonia , in  which,  a 
priori , a stimulant  and  not  a sedative  remedy  is  indicated,  yet  it  is  precisely  in  that  affec- 
tion, and  not  in  the  inflammatory  form  of  pneumonia,  that  senega  won  its  reputation,  and 
especially  in  the  decline  of  the  disease,  when  it  would  seem  that  a stimulant  expectorant 
is  called  for.  In  like  manner  senega  is  useful  in  bronchorrhoea  and  in  chronic  bronchitis 
with  profuse  expectoration.  Even  in  croup  (spasmodic  laryngitis)  it  is  most  appropriate 
after  the  inflammatory  stage  with  spasm  has  passed  and  the  affection  has  become  a simple 
catarrhal  laryngitis.  In  like  manner,  when  it  was  prescribed  in  the  treatment  of  amenor- 
rlicea , the  cases  in  which  it  seems  to  have  done  good  were  those  of  passive  and  not  of 
active  congestion  of  the  uterine  system.  The  diuretic  operation  of  senega  is  too  incon- 
siderable to  constitute  it  a trustworthy  remedy  in  any  form  of  dropsy. 

The  dose  of  powdered  senega  is  from  Gm.  0.60-1.30  (gr.  x-xx).  The  fluid  extract  is 
officinal. 


SENNA,  U.  S. — Senna. 

Folia  sennse , P.  G. ; Senna  Alexandrina  and  S.  Indica , Br. — Senna-leaves , E. ; Feuilles 
de  sene , Fr. ; Sennesbldtter , G. 

The  leaves  of  Cassia  acutifolia,  Delile , and  of  C.  angustifolia,  Vahl.  Bentley  and  Tri- 
men, Med.  Plants , 89,  90,  91. 

Nat.  Ord. — Leguminosse,  Caesalpineae. 

Origin. — The  subgenus  Senna  of  the  genus  Cassia  is  regarded  by  some  botanists  as 
a distinct  genus,  characterized  by  the  absence  of  glands  from  the  common  petiole  of  the 
leaves,  by  the  axillary  racemose  inflorescence,  and  by  the  flat,  broad,  papyraceous  legumes, 
which  are  indehiscent,  cleft  on  the  margin  at  maturity,  and  contain  near  the  middle  the 
small  triangular  or  truncately  wedge-shaped  seeds  attached  to  a long  funiculus.  The 
senna-yielding  species  are  small  shrubs  60-90  Cm.  (2  or  3 feet)  high,  have  small,  persist- 
ent stipules  and  axillary  racemes  of  yellow  flowers. 

Cassia  acutifolia,  Delile  (C.  lanceolata,  Nectoux,  C.  Senna  /?,  Linne,  C.  orientalis, 
Persoon,  C.  lenitiva,  Bischoff , Senna  acutifolia,  Batka).  It  is  found  in  Upper  Egypt  and 
southward  to  Nubia,  Sennaar,  and  Kordofan,  and  farther  westward  in  tropical  Africa. 
The  leaflets  are  mostly  in  four  or  five  pairs,  are  from  2-3  Cm.  (f  to  1J  inches)  long,  and 
about  1 Cm.  (|-  inch)  broad,  vary  in  shape  between  oval,  lance-oval,  and  lanceolate,  and 


SENNA. 


1439 


are  acute  or  rather  pointed,  mucronate,  on  the  under  side  somewhat  hairy  or  nearly 
smooth,  and  are  rather  thick  in  texture.  The  stipules  are  subulate,  and  the  fruit  is 
broadly  oblong,  slightly  bent,  about  5 Cm.  (2  inches)  long,  and  contains  about  six  seeds. 

Fig.  272.  Fig.  273. 


Cassia  acutifolia,  Del.  Cassia  obovata,  Colladon. 


Cassia  angustifolia,  Vahl  (C.  elongata,  Lemaire , C.  lanceolata,  Wight  et  Arnott , C. 
acutifolia,  Nees,  C.  medica,  Forskal , C.  medicinalis,  Bischoff ‘ Senna  officinalis,  Roxburgh , 
S.  angustifolia,  Batka).  It  is  found  in  South-western  Arabia, 
along  the  Somali  coast  of  Africa,  and  eastward  in  Northern 
India.  The  leaflets  are  in  four  to  eight  pairs,  are  from  25  to 
50  Mm.  (1  to  2 inches)  long,  12-19  Mm.  (J  to  f inch)  broad, 
vary  in  shape  from  narrow-lanceolate  to  lance-ovate  and  oblong- 
ovate  ; are  narrowed  above  to  the  mucronate  apex,  slightly 
pubescent,  and  beneath  somewhat  glaucous.  The  stipules  are 
narrow,  and  the  legumes  oblong  or  oval,  about  5 Cm.  (2  inches) 
long,  and  contain  about  eight  seeds.  Batka  distinguishes  three 
varieties — namely  a dilatata.  (a  genuina,  Bischoff ),  the  leaflets 
broadest  above  the  base  and  in  the  middle,  and  gradually  taper- 
ing to  the  apex ; /?  arcuatci  (/?  Royleana,  Bischoff ),  the  leaflets 
narrowed  at  the  base,  broadest  below  the  middle,  and  more 
pointed  and  thinner  than  in  the  preceding  variety ; y genuina 
(j  Ehrenbergii,  Bischoff ),  the  leaflets  narrower  than  the  pre- 
ceding varieties,  linear-lanceolate,  and  pointed.  The  variety  /?  seems  to  be  a form  pro- 
duced by  cultivation  at  Tinnevelly  in  Southern  India. 

Cassia  oboyata,  Colladon  (C.  Senna,  Forskal , C.  obtusa,  Wallich , C.  obtusata , Hay ne, 
Senna  obovata,  Batka).  It  is  found  in  Arabia  and  in  Africa  from  Egypt  southward,  in 
Nubia,  Abyssinia,  and  Southern  Africa,  and  westward  to  Tripoli  and  Senegal.  The  leaf- 
lets are  in  four  to  seven  pairs,  obovate  or  oblong  obovate,  mucronulate,  clothed  with  few 
appressed  hairs  or  nearly  smooth.  The  stipules  are  linear-lanceolate,  acute  and  rigid, 
and  the  legume  is  curved,  rounded  at  both  ends,  38  Mm.  (1£  inches)  long,  and  contains 
about  ten  seeds.  Batka  distinguishes  three  varieties  : a genuina , with  the  leaflets  rounded 
or  mucronulate  at  the  apex;  /?  obtusata , with  the  leaflets  more  blunt;  and  y platicarpa, 
with  shorter  racemes  and  broader  and  less  curved  legumes  than  the  preceding.  C.  obo- 
vata is  cultivated,  and  has  been  naturalized  in  Jamaica.  It  is  mentioned  by  the  British 
Pharmacopoeia  as  one  of  the  sources  of  Alexandria  senna,  but  its  leaflets  are  now  rarely 
met  with  in  the  drug. 

Collection. — In  Nubia  the  collection  of  senna  appears  to  be  carried  on  in  the  same 
manner  now  as  it  was  at  the  time  when  Nectoux  visited  that  country  near  the  close  of 
the  last  century.  In  the  month  of  September,  after  the  termination  of  the  rains,  the 
natives  cut  down  the  shrubs  and  dry  them  on  the  rocks  in  the  sun,  after  which  they  are 
stripped.  The  leaves  are  then  packed  in  bags  made  of  palm-leaves  and  transported  by 
camels  to  the  Nile,  and  thence  to  Cairo  and  Alexandria,  from  which  port  the  drug  derives 
its  name  and  finds  its  way  into  commerce.  A second  crop,  which  is  frequently  very  lim- 
ited, is  obtained  about  the  middle  of  March,  when  the  fruit  ripens. 

Description. — The  pharmacopoeial  varieties  of  senna  are — 

1.  Alexandria  Senna.  This  variety  has  been  very  variable  in  quality,  and  some- 
times much  broken  up  and  mixed  with  leaf-stalks  and  fragments  of  the  branches.  Leaf- 
lets of  the  three  species  of  Cassia  described  above  have  at  times  been  observed  in  the 
commercial  article,  but  of  late  years  the  drug  consisted  chiefly  of  the  leaflets  of  C. 
acutifolia,  to  the  exclusion  of  the  other  species.  Recently,  however,  we  have  seen 


Fig.  274. 


Cassia  elongata,  Lem. 


1440 


SENNA. 


samples  containing  again,  to  a limited  extent,  the  leaflets  of  C.  obovata,  which  is  called 

by  the  Arabs  senna  baladi  ( wild  senna ), 
and  is  regarded  in  Egypt  as  much  less 
valuable  than  the  senna  jabeli  ( mountain- 
senna ),  the  C.  acutifolia.  Alexandria  senna 
requires  to  be  freed  from  argel-leaves  (not 
by  P.  G.)  and  from  discolored  leaves,  and 
frequently  needs  sifting  and  picking  in 
order  to  separate  stalks,  foreign  leaves, 
fruits,  and  earthy  impurities  (see  below). 
Including  finely-broken  leaves,  such  impu- 
rities amount  sometimes*  to  from  40  to 
nearly  60  per  cent,  of  the  weight  of  the 
drug.  Alexandria  senna  is  of  a pale-green 
color,  of  a thickish  texture,  plainly  veined, 
finely  hairy,  mainly  on  the  midrib,  and  pos- 
sesses a somewhat  tea-like  odor  and  a muci- 
laginous afterward  bitterish  and  nauseous 
taste.  Like  the  other  varieties  of  senna,  the  leaflets  are  oblique  and  uneven  toward  the 
base. 

Identical  with  the  preceding  in  its  botanical  origin  is  Tripoli  senna , which  comes  by 
caravans  from  the  interior  of  Africa  to  Tripoli,  but  rarely  reaches  this  country.  It  is 
frequently  much  broken  up,  and  even  discolored,  but  otherwise  free  from  for- 
eign leaves,  though  not  from  other  impurities,  including  legumes,  stalks,  and 
earthy  matters. 

2.  India  senna  consists  solely  of  the  leaflets  of  C.  angustifolia,  but  is  met 
with  of  different  qualities,  the  handsomest  being — 

Tinnevelly  senna . It  is  the  kind  recognized  by  the  Br.  P.  as  Senna  Indica, 
and  consists  of  the  carefully-dried  and  fully -matured  leaflets  of  the  variety 
arcuata,  which  are  dull-green  in  color,  smooth  or  slightly  pubescent  beneath, 
and  are  free  from  stalks,  legumes,  broken  or  discolored  leaves,  and  other  im- 
purities. Their  odor  is  similar  to  that  of  Alexandria  senna,  but  the  taste  is 
more  mucilaginous  and  less  nauseous.  • 

East  India  or  Bombay  senna  has  the  same  origin,  but  is  less  carefully  dried, 
and  frequently  contains  smaller  and  somewhat  discolored  leaflets.  It  is  not 
unfrequently  sold  here  as  Tinnevelly  senna. 

Arabian  or  Mecca  senna , also  sold  as  Bombay  senna,  is  collected  and  dried  with  still  less 
care,  and  is  often  mixed  with  brown  leaflets  and  with  legumes. 

Allied  Drugs  and  Admixtures. — Cassia  (Senna,  Batka ) pubescens,  R.  Brown , s.  C.  Schimperi, 
Steudel.  The  leaflets  are  about  25  Mm.  (1  inch)  long,  oval  or  ovate,  obtuse,  mucronate,  soft- 
hairy  on  both  sides,  and  ciliate  on  the  margin.  They  have  occasionally  been  met  with  in  Mecca 
senna. 

Cassia  brevipes,  De  Candolle.  The  leaflets  w^re  sent  from  Central  America  to  Great  Britain 
in  1875;  they  resemble  India  senna,  but  have  three  veins  running  nearly  parallel  from  the 
base  to  the  blunt  apex,  and  their  infusion  was  found  by  Holmes  to  be  destitute  of  purgative 
properties. 

Cassia  marilandica,  Linn6  (U.  S . 1870);  Folia  sennae  Americans. — Sen6  Americain,  Fr. ; 
Amerikanische  Senna,  G.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 88. — This  perennial  plant  is  found 
in  low  grounds  and  along  streams  from  the  New  England  States  and  New  York  south  to  the 
Carolinas  and  west  to  the  Mississippi.  It  produces  erect  branching  stems  .9—1.5  M.  (3  to  5 feet) 
high,  and  has  pinnate  leaves  on  petioles  25-50  Mm.  (1  to  2 inches)  long  and  with  a nearly  sessile 
gland  near  the  base  on  the  upper  side,  six  to  nine  pairs  of  leaflets,  numerous  pedunculate  erect 
racemes  near  the  top  of  the  branches,  showy  yellow  or  whitish  flowers  with  dark  veins,  and 
legumes  which  are  finally  smooth,  linear,  compressed,  often  curved,  and  somewhat  sinuate  on  the 
raised  edges ; the  ovate  oblong  seeds  are  separated  by  transverse  dissepiments.  It  flowers  in 
August  and  ripens  its  fruit  in  October.  It  belongs  to  the  subgenus  Chamaesenna,  which  differs 
from  senna  mainly  in  the  narrow  glands  upon  the  petioles  and  in  the  dehiscent  legumes.  The 
leaflets  are  25  or  50  Mm.  (1  to  2 inches)  long,  about  12  Mm.  (J  inch)  wide,  on  short  foot-stalks, 
smooth,  ovate  oblong  to  elliptic,  uneven  at  the  base,  green  above  and  paler  beneath.  Collected 
in  summer,  the  leaflets  have  an  herbaceous  odor,  but  if  collected  in  September  or  the  beginning 
of  October,  after  the  plant  is  out  of  bloom,  they  acquire  a distinct  senna  odor.  They  are  thinner 
in  texture  and  larger  than  Alexandria  senna,  and  lose  on  drying  about  70  per  cent,  of  moisture. 
The  analyses  of  J.  J.  Martin  (1835)  and  E.  L.  Perot  (1855)  did  not  throw  any  light  upon  the 
active  principle,  assuming  that  the  leaves  contain  such.  The  usual  constituents  of  leaves,  a 


Fig.  276. 


Solenostemma 
argel,  Hayne. 


Fig.  275. 


SENNA. 


1441 


minute  quantity  of  volatile  oil,  some  fat,  resin,  mucilage,  etc.,  were  found,  in  addition  to  a com- 
plex body  resembling  the  formerly  so-called  cathartin  of  senna. 

Solenostemma  (Cyxanchum,  Delile)  Argel,  Hayne , s.  Cyn.  oleaefolium,  Nectoux  (nat.  ord. 
Asclepiadaceae).  The  leaves  constitute  the  principal  adulteration  of  Alexandria  senna,  aside 
from  stalks  and  earthy  admixtures.  They  resemble  senna-leaves  closely  in  size,  shape,  and 
color,  but  are  readily  distinguished  by  the  indistinctness  of  their  lateral  veins  and  by  their  even 
base ; they  are  also  more  leathery  in  texture,  have  a wrinkled  surface,  are  grayish-green,  pubes- 
cent, and  of  a decidedly  bitter  taste.  They  are  often  accompanied  by  the  flower-buds  of  the  same 
plant,  by  the  whitish  flowers,  or  occasionally  by  the  slender  pear-shaped  fruit,  which  is  38  Mm. 
(1|  inches)  long,  and  contains  numerous  hairy  tufted  seeds.  The  plant  inhabits 
Upper  Egypt,  but  is  never  collected  with  senna,  the  addition  being  made  to  supply  Fig.  277. 
the  demand. 

The  leaflets  of  Tephrosia  (Galega,  Delile ) apollinea,  De  Candolle , a leguminous 
plant  of  Southern  Europe,  are  said  to  have  been  sometimes  noticed  as  an  adultera- 
tion of  senna ; they  are  somewhat  uneven  at  the  base,  but  their  shape  is  obovate  and 
they  are  emarginate  at  the  apex. 

The  leaves  of  Coriaria  are  described  on  page  543,  and  the  leaflets  of  Colutea  on 
page  526  ; they  are  rarely,  if  ever,  met  with  now  as  adulterations  of  senna. 

Globularia  Alypum,  Linne  (nat.  ord.  Globulariaceae).  The  shrub  is  indigenous 
to  Southern  Europe ; the  leaves,  which  are  used  as  a substitute  for  senna,  are  nearly 
sessile,  obovate-oblong,  entire  or  slightly  toothed,  finely  granular,  and  on  the  lower  Tep!]™slaa 
side  bluish-green.  Walz  found  in  the  leaves  a peculiar  tannin  and  an  amorphous  Dec.  ’ 
bitter  principle,  globularin.  which  is  precipitated  by  tannin,  is  soluble  in  water, 
alcohol,  ether,  and  chloroform,  and  is  a glucoside.  Heckel  and  Schlagdenhauffen  (1882)  found 
its  composition  to  be  C15H20O8,  and  that  of  its  decomposition-product,  globularetin,  C9H60  ; the 
latter,  heated  with  alkalies,  yields  cinnamic  acid,  which  also  exists  in  the  leaves,  together  with 
mannit,  wax,  etc. 

Constituents. — Senna-leaves  have  been  frequently  subjected  to  analysis,  but  the 
results  are  even  at  the  present  time  not  entirely  satisfactory.  Lassaigne  and  Feneuille’s 
cathartin  was  found  by  Heerlein  (1843)  to  be  destitute  of  active  cathartic  properties. 
Winckler  (1840)  obtained  the  bitter  principle  again  in  an  impure  state;  but  in  the 
same  year  chrysoretin  was  isolated  by  Bley  and  Diesel,  and  this  substance  was  sub- 
sequently (1857)  pronounced  by  C.  Martius  to  be  identical  with  chrysophanic  acid , 
and  to  be  mixed  with  phstoretin  and  fatty  acids.  Bourgoin  (1871)  ascertained  cathartin 
to  be  free  from  cathartic  acid,  but  to  be  a mixture  of  sugar,  chrysophanic  acid,  and  chrys- 
ophanin , which  latter  is  white,  soluble  in  water,  insoluble  in  alcohol,  and  is  not  precipi- 
tated by  lead  acetate.  Ludwig  (1864)  obtained  an  acrid  and  a bitter  principle,  both  of 
which  are  absorbed  by  charcoal,  but  sennacrol  is  soluble  and  sennapicrin  is  insoluble  in 
ether.  From  the  investigations  of  Dragendorff  and  Kubly  (1866)  and  Groves  (1868) 
there  can  be  no  doubt  that  the  cathartic  properties  of  senna  reside  mainly,  if  not  exclu- 
sively, in  the  calcium  and  magnesium  salts  of  cathartic  acid , which  are  insoluble  in 
alcohol,  but  soluble  in  water,  and  may  be  obtained  by  precipitating  a concentrated  infu- 
sion of  senna  with  an  equal  bulk  of  absolute  alcohol  : the  liquid  filtered  from  the  precipi- 
tated mucilage  and  salts  is  mixed  with  more  absolute  alcohol  as  long  as  a precipitate  is 
produced.  This  precipitate  is  washed  with  alcohol,  dissolved  in  a little  water,  freed  from 
albumen  by  a few  drops  of  hydrochloric  acid,  the  filtrate  completely  precipitated  by 
the  addition  of  more  hydrochloric  acid  ; the  impure  cathartic  acid  thus  obtained  is  purified 
by  dissolving  in  60  per  cent,  alcohol  and  precipitating  by  ether.  T.  B.  Groves  (1868) 
takes  advantage  of  the  colloidal  properties  of  cathartic  acid,  and  purifies  it  by  dissolving 
the  crude  cathartate  in  moderately  strong  hydrochloric  acid  and  subjecting  the  solution 
to  dialysis  on  a diaphragm  of  parchment-paper.  Thus  obtained,  cathartic  acid  contains 
nitrogen  and  sulphur,  and  is  a brown,  and  after  drying  a black,  amorphous  substance,  which 
is  insoluble  in  water,  but  dissolves  in  alkalies,  from  which  solutions  it  is  again  precipi- 
tated by  acids.  The  cathartates  of  the  alkalies  and  alkaline  earths  are  soluble  in  water, 
but  insoluble  in  alcohol.  On  boiling  the  alcoholic  solution  of  cathartic  acid  with  hydro- 
chloric acid  it  yields  34  per  cent,  of  glucose  and  65  of  cathartogenic  acid , which  is  a 
yellowish-brown  powder  insoluble  in  water  and  ether.  According  to  Groves,  the  long- 
continued  action  of  heat  on  cathartates  exposed  to  air  in  watery  solution  decomposes 
them,  rendering  them  inert ; organic  acids,  added  to  the  aqueous  solutions  of  cathartates, 
precipitate  cathartic  acid,  but,  unlike  the  mineral  acids,  do  not  decompose  it  on  boiling. 
Dragendorff  and  Kubly  obtained  also  a dextrogyrate  saccharine  substance,  cathar toman- 
nit.  in  verrucose  crystals,  and  regard  the  yellow  coloring  matter  as  similar  to,  but  distinct 
from,  chrysophanic  acid  ; it  is  probably  the  glucoside  chrysophan.  (See  Rheum.)  Keuss- 
ler  (1878)  prepared  from  senna  chrysophanic  acid  and  inactive  cathartomannit.  L.  Sie- 
bold  (1875)  found  that  senna-leaves  treated  with  strong  alcohol  are  rather  less  purgative 
91 


1442 


SERPENTA  RIA. 


than  the  unextracted  leaves,  hut  he  confirmed  the  earlier  observations,  that  the  alcoholic 
extract  is  destitute  of  such  action,  though  it  contains  the  griping  principles.  Diehl  (1875) 
made  similar  observations. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Species  laxantes,  P.  G.  Senna-leaves  16  parts,  elder- 
flowers  10  parts,  fennel  and  anise  each  5 parts,  are  cut,  bruised,  and  mixed  with  4 parts 
of  cream  of  tartar.  A uniform  mixture  cannot  thus  be  obtained,  since  the  powdered 
cream  of  tartar  separates  readily ; it  is  therefore  recommended  by  Thanisch  to  moisten 
the  unbruised  fennel  and  anise  with  simple  syrup,  and  then  to  mix  them  with  the  cream 
of  tartar,  which  after  drying  will  adhere.  Another  advantage  is  that  the  volatile  oils 
will  then  not  be  exposed  to  the  air. 

Species  laxantes  St.  Germain.  The  formula  is  practically  identical  with  the  pre- 
ceding, except  that  senna-leaves,  previously  exhausted  by  alcohol,  are  used. 

Action  and  Uses. — In  man  an  infusion  of  senna  injected  into  the  veins  has  occa- 
sioned both  vomiting  and  purging  (Wibmer  ; Mitscherlisch)  ; but  Mr.  Stockman  admin- 
istered, subcutaneously  and  by  the  jugular  vein,  large  doses  of  cathartic  acid  without 
causing  purgation  (Am.  Jour.  Pliar .,  lvii.  261).  Some  persons  are  so  susceptible  to  the 
action  of  senna  as  to  be  purged  even  by  its  odor  or  by  that  of  its  infusion.  It  renders 
the  milk  of  a nursing  woman  purgative  to  her  infant.  It  is  very  apt  to  create  flatulence, 
nausea,  and  colic  unless  associated  with  some  lenitive  or  aromatic  substance.  It  produces 
yellow  stools,  and  its  action  is  not  followed  by  constipation.  It  never  occasions  hyper- 
catharsis. Its  operation  is  said  to  be  promoted  by  bitter  medicines,  such  as  Colombo,  and 
hence  it  is  a valuable  purgative  when  constipation  is  associated  with  debility  of  the 
bowels.  Cathartic  acid  has  a sour  and  somewhat  astringent  taste.  It  passes  through  the 
system  without  decomposition,  and  affects  the  milk  of  nursing  women  like  senna  itself. 
In  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.10-0.20  (1 J to  3 grains)  it  occasions  griping  and  liquid  yellow  stools. 
Therapeutists  of  last  century  employed  the  leaf-stalks  and  the  seed-pods  of  senna  as 
milder  purgatives  than  the  leaves.  The  use  of  the  pods  has  been  recently  revived  by 
Macfarlane  ( Lancet , July,  1889,  p.  164),  who  claims  that  the  infusion  of  them  is  almost 
free  from  taste  and  smell,  and,  though  slower  in  their  action  than  the  leaves,  do  not  cause 
griping  or  flatulence.  Senna-leaves  treated  by  alcohol  to  exhaust  them  of  their  resinous 
and  odorous  principles,  to  which  their  griping  and  nauseous  taste  are  due,  retain  their 
cathartic  action  in  part,  but  to  a less  degree  than  the  pods  possess  it  (Am.  Jour.  Pliar ., 
lxi.  581). 

The  uses  of  senna  were  learned  from  the  Arabians,  who  employed  it  in  various  local 
affections,  especially  of  the  skin.  Their  later  authorities  refer  to  its  tendency  to  gripe, 
to  obviate  which  they  recommended  its  association  with  violets,  prunes,  and  other  leni- 
tives. Even  now  it  is  seldom  given  alone,  but  generally  with  some  corrective  of  its  grip- 
ing qualities,  as  with  coriander  in  the  simple  infusion,  or  with  tamarinds,  or  with  Epsom 
or  Rochelle  salt,  manna,  and  fennel-seed,  as  in  the  infusion  known  as  the  “ black  draught.” 
Care  should  be  taken  not  to  let  the  leaves  macerate  too  long,  nor  to  compress  them  when 
the  liquid  of  the  infusion  is  decanted,  lest  their  acrid  principle  be  taken  up  and  produce 
griping.  The  dose  of  either  of  these  infusions  is  Gm.  64-128  (fgij-iv),  repeated  every 
two  or  three  hours  until  its  purgative  effects  begin  to  be  felt.  The  infusions  are  better 
purgatives  than  the  simple  tincture,  for  water  extracts  from  senna  a larger  proportion  of 
its  purgative  principle  than  alcohol.  An  excellent  laxative  is  the  compound  powder  of 
liquorice,  whose  active  ingredient  is  senna,  as  it  also  is  of  “ Tamar  Indien.” 

American  senna  is  identical  with  Alexandria  senna  in  the  mode  of  its  operation,  but  a 
dose  one-third  larger  of  it  is  required.  At  best,  it  is  but  a poor  substitute  for  the  African 
drug. 


SERPENTARIA,  77.  S, — Serpentaria  (Virginia  Snakeroot). 

Serpentanse  rhizoma  ( radix ),  Br. — Serpentaire  ( Viperine)  de  Virginie , F.  Cod.;  Vir- 
ginische  Schlangenwurzel , G.  ; Serpentaria  de  Virginia , Sp. 

The  rhizome  and  rootlets  of  Aristolochia  (Endodeca,  Klotzsch ) Serpentaria,  Linne , and 
of  Aristolochia  reticulata,  Nuttall.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 246. 

Nat.  Ord. — Aristolochiaceae. 

Origin. — The  two  plants  from  which  Virginia  snakeroot  is  derived  are  perennial 
herbs,  with  slender  erect  zigzag  stems  about  30  Cm.  (12  inches)  high,  alternate  cordate 
or  cordately-ovate  leaves,  and  with  purple  flowers,  which  grow  on  slender  flexuose  branches 
from  the  lower  nodes,  and  have  the  tube  of  the  perianth  inflated  at  both  ends  and  bent  like 
the  letter  S.  Arist.  Serpentaria  has  the  leaves  petiolate,  pointed,  thin,  and  somewhat 


SERPENTARIA. 


1443 


pubescent,  and  is  found  in  rich  woodlands  from  Connecticut  westward  to  the  Mississippi, 
and  southward  in  the  middle  and  southern  part  of  the  United  States ; it  is  not  common 
except  near  the  Alleghany  Mountains.  The  variety  hastata  (Aris.  sagittata,  Muhlenberg , 
Ar.  hastata,  Nutt-all ) is  smaller,  more  slender,  has  narrow  lance-oblong  auriculate  leaves, 
and  grows  in  South  Carolina  and  westward.  Arist.  reticulata  has  the  leaves  subsessile, 
obtuse,  thickish,  reticulate,  and  hirsute,  and  is  indigenous  to  Louisiana  and  Texas. 

Description. — Virginia  snakeroot  consists  of  a rhizome  which  is  about  25  Mm.  (1 
inch)  long,  3 Mm.  (£  inch)  thick,  is  bent  up  and  down,  and  bears  on  the  upper  side  the 
short  approximate  stem-remnants,  which  are  flat  or  slightly  convex  above ; below  and  on 
the  sides  are  numerous  thin  branching  rootlets,  7-15  Cm.  (3  to  6 inches)  long,  and  matted 
together.  It  is  of  a dull  yellowish-brown  color,  and  has  an  aromatic  camphoraceous  odor 
and  a bitterish,  aromatic,  camphoraceous,  and  somewhat  terebinthinate  taste.  The  drug 
derived  from  Ar.  reticulata  is  sometimes  distinguished  in  commerce  as  Red  River  or  Texas 
snakeroot ; it  closely  resembles  the  preceding,  but  has  a somewhat  thicker  rhizome  and 
coarser,  rather  longer,  and  less  interlaced  rootlets.  On  transverse  section  the  rhizome  is 
seen  to  consist  of  a thin  bark  containing  some  oil-cells,  and  an  eccentric  wood  with  broad, 
slightly-curved  medullary  rays,  and  enclosing  a pith  which  is  near  the  upper  side.  The  root- 
lets have  a thick  bark  containing  scattered  oil-cells  and  a thin  angular  central  ligneous  cord. 

Constituents. — Bucholz  (1807)  determined  the  presence  in  serpentaria  of  about  £ 
per  cent,  of  volatile  oil  and  of  resinous,  extractive,  and  mucilaginous  matters.  The 
volatile  oil  is  brownish-yellow,  lighter  than  water,  and  has  an  odor  and  taste  resembling 
those  of  a mixture  of  valerian  and  camphor.  The  bitter  principle  was  obtained  by 
Chevallier  (1820)  by  precipitating  the  decoction  with  lead  acetate,  exhausting  the  pre- 
cipitate with  hot  alcohol,  evaporating,  and  treating  the  residue  with  water,  which  dissolves 
the  bitter  principle.  Feneulle  (1826)  found  the  bitter  principle  in  the  filtrate  from  the 
precipitate  occasioned  in  the  decoction  by  lead  acetate.  It  is  yellow,  amorphous,  soluble 

in  water  and  alcohol,  yields  precipitates  with  tannin  and 
Fig.  278.  various  metallic  salts,  and  appears  to  resemble  the  bitter 

principle  contained  in  the  rhizome  of  Aristolochia  Clematitis, 
Linne.  A small  quantity  of  tannin,  malic  acid,  albumen,  su- 
gar, and  other  common  constituents  are  also  contained  in 
serpentaria.  According  to  T.  S.  Wiegand  (1844),  Bed  River 
snakeroot  has  the  same  constituents,  but  is  more  mucilagi- 
nous and  yields  a somewhat  larger  proportion  of  volatile  oil. 

Impurities  and  Adulterations. — As  found  in  com- 
merce, serpentaria  frequently  has  portions  of  the  stem  at- 
tached, sometimes  with  leaves  and  with  the  six-sided  and  six- 
celled  capsules.  Ginseng-root  and  the  rhizomes  of  cypripe- 
dium  and  of  hydrastis  are  occasionally  met  with  as  accidental 
impurities,  but  Milleman  (1874)  also  observed  hydrastis  as 
an  evident  intentional  adulteration  of  serpentaria.  Spigelia 
is  occasionally  used  for  the  same  purpose.  All  these  impuri- 


Fig.  279. 


Fig.  280. 


Aristolochia  serpentaria,  Linne. 


Transverse  section 
of  rhizome. 


ties  and  adulterations  may,  however,  be  easily  identified  from  the  characters  of  these 
drugs,  as  described  elsewhere. 


1444 


SEVUM.—SINAPIS  NIGRA. 


Action  and  Uses. — In  large  doses  it  occasions  nausea,  eructation,  vomiting,  and 
flatulence,  but  not  diarrhoea ; it  gives  rise  to  some  fulness  of  the  head  and  quickens  the 
circulation.  In  certain  states  of  the  system  it  promotes  perspiration,  but  experiments 
with  it  on  healthy  persons  give  no  indication  of  its  virtues  in  disease.  They  are  mani- 
fested in  typhus  and  typhoid  fever , and  in  the  typhoid  state  generally,  whenever  the  pulse 
is  feeble  or  irregular,  the  skin  cool  and  clammy,  the  iriouth  fuliginous,  the  eyes  injected 
and  dull,  and  the  mind  delirious  or  stupid.  When,  in  addition,  the  urine  and  faeces  are 
dark  and  fetid,  the  skin  covered  with  ecchymoses,  etc.,  serpentaria  is  indicated,  and  with 
it  cinchona  and  alcohol.  Such  an  association  of  medicines  exists  in  the  compound  tinc- 
ture of  cinchona,  which  from  the  days  of  Huxham,  who  invented  it,  has  been  an  habitual 
remedy  in  these  affections.  In  typhoid  pneumonia  serpentaria  is  much  relied  on,  and  also 
in  low  forms  of  diphtheria . The  fluid  extract  is  stated  to  be  an  excellent  topical  appli- 
cation for  poisoning  by  Rhus  toxicodendron. 

Aristolochin  (Pohl)  is  said  to  produce  uraemic  intoxication  in  warm-blooded  animals. 

The  dose  of  serpentaria  in  powder  is  Gm.  0-60-2  (gr.  x-xxx).  The  infusion,  which  is 
official  (.Sr.),  is  the  best  simple  preparation  of  the  medicine,  but  the  fluid  extract,  the 
tincture,  and  especially  the  compound  tincture,  are  much  more  commonly  employed. 

SEVUM,  77.  S* — Suet  ; Mutton  Suet. 

Sevum  pr  separatum,  Br. ; Sebum  ovile  ( ovillum ),  P.  G. — Saif  de  mouton,  Fr.  Cod.;  Talg , 
Ilammeltalg,  G.  ; Sibo  de  carnero , Sp. 

The  internal  fat  of  the  abdomen  of  Ovis  Aries,  Linne , purified  by  melting  and 
straining. 

Class  Mammalia.  Ord.  Buminantia. 

Origin. — The  domesticated  sheep  is  by  zoologists  considered  to  be  a variety  either 
of  the  argali  of  Siberia,  Ovis  Amnion,  Linne,  or  of  the  South  European  muflon,  Ovis 
Musimon,  Linne.  The  part  employed  is  the  internal  fat  of  the  abdomen,  which  is  cut 
into  small  pieces,  melted  by  the  aid  of  a moderate  heat,  and  strained  (prepared  suet). 

Properties. — Mutton  suet  is  a white,  smooth,  solid,  nearly  inodorous  fat,  which  on 
exposure  to  air  gradually  becomes  rancid.  It  has  a neutral  reaction  and  bland  taste, 
melts  between  44°  and  50°  C.  (111.2°  and  122°  F.),  and  congeals  between  37°  and  40°  C. 
(98.6°  and  104°  F.),  with  a rise  of  temperature  of  nearly  5°  C.  (39°  F.),  fresh  suet  having 
the  lower  melting-  and  congealing-point.  It  dissolves  in  44  parts  of  boiling  alcohol  of 
specific  gravity  0.820,  but  is  insoluble  in  cold  alcohol ; on  warming  equal  parts  of  suet  and 
alcohol,  agitating  thoroughly,  and  afterward  cooling,  the  clear  alcoholic  liquid  does  not 
become  turbid  on  the  addition  of  water  (absence  of  fat  acids).  According  to  Lecanu,  suet 
requires  over  60  parts  of  cold  ether  for  solution  ; it  is  slowly  soluble  in  2 parts  of  benzin, 
and  crystallizes  again  from  this  solution  on  keeping  it  for  some  time  in  a closed  vessel. 

Composition. — According  to  Chevreul  and  Heintz,  mutton  suet  consists  of  70  per 
cent,  of  stearin  and  palmitin,  30  per  cent,  of  olein,  and  a trace  of  hircin  ; the  latter  is  the 
glyceryl  compound  of  hircic  acid,  which  is  a colorless  oil,  of  a peculiar  goat-like  and 
acetous  odor,  has  a strong  acid  reaction,  and  is  freely  soluble  in  alcohol.  The  olein  pre- 
pared by  expressing  the  suet  is  nearly  colorless,  has  a slight  odor,  and  dissolves  in  about 
1,|  parts  of  boiling  absolute  alcohol. 

Action  and  Uses. — Suet,  when  perfectly  fresh,  forms  a suitable  dressing  for  blis- 
tered and  other  excoriated  surfaces,  but  it  is  very  apt  to  grow  rancid,  and  is  then  decidedly 
irritant.  It  is  used  as  an  ingredient  of  various  ointments,  cerates,  and  plasters,  and  gives 
them  a firmer  consistence  than  they  would  derive  from  lard. 

SIN  APIS  ALBA,  77.  S.— White  (Yellow)  Mustard. 

Semen  erucse. — Moutarde  blanche,  Fr.  ; Weisser  Senf  G. ; Mostaza  bianco,  Sp. 

The  seed  of  Brassica  (Sinapis,  Linne,  Leucosinapis,  Spach)  alba,  Hooker  filius  et  Thomp- 
son. Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  23. 

SINAPIS  NIGRA,  77.  S.—  Black  Mustard. 

Sinapis  nigrse  semina,  Br. ; Semen  sinapis,  P.  G. — Moutarde  noire,  Fr.  Cod. ; Schwarzer 
Senf,  G. ; Mostaza  negra,,  Sp. 

The  seed  of  Brassica  (Sinapis,  Linne ) nigra,  Koch,  s.  Brassica  sinapiodes,  Roth.  Bent- 
ley and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  22. 

Nat.  Ord. — Cruciferae,  Siliquosae. 


SINAPTS  NIGRA. 


1445 


Origin. — Both  white  and  black  mustard  have  escaped  from  cultivation  in  the  United 
States,  and  are  sometimes  found  wild  here.  Both  are  indigenous  to  Southern  Europe 
and  Western  Asia,  and  now  grow  as  weeds  throughout  a great  portion  of  Europe  and 
Middle  Asia,  black  mustard  extending  farther  to  the  north,  and  white  mustard  farther 
eastward  to  China.  The  two  plants  are  annuals,  and  have  thin,  branching,  spindle-shaped 
roots,  lyrate- pinnatifid  lower  leaves,  compact  and  finally  elongated  racemes  of  yellow 
flowers,  and  beaked  three-  to  six-seeded  pods.  White  mustard  is  retrorsely  hairy,  has 
the  upper  leaves  stalked,  three-lobed  and  toothed,  and  the  pods  hairy,  ascending,  beaded 
by  the  seeds,  and  furnished  with  a prominent  sword-shaped  beak,  containing  a seed  at 
its  base.  Black  mustard  is  larger,  .9  or  1.2  M.  (3  or  4 feet)  high,  smooth  above,  has  the 
upper  leaves  slightly  toothed  or  entire,  and  produces  smooth  linear  pods  which  are  appressed 
to  the  axis  and  furnished  with  a short  beak. 

White  and  black  mustard-seeds,  powdered  and  mixed,  are  admitted  by  the  British 
Pharmacopoeia  together  as  sinapis,  but  separately  by  the  U.  S.  and  French  Pharma- 
copoeias. The  German  Pharmacopoeia  recognizes  black  mustard-seed  alone  as  Semen 
sinapis. 

Description. — 1.  White  Mustard-seed.  The  seeds  are  globular  or  nearly  so, 
about  2 Mm.  (jL  inch)  in  diameter,  weigh  about  .005  Gm.,  and  are  on  one  end  marked 
with  a small  circular  hilum  and  on  the  inner  side  with  two  shallow  grooves.  The  testa 
is  of  a yellowish  or  pale  grayish-brown  color,  very  finely  pitted  and  somewhat  rough. 


Fig.  281. 


Fig.  282. 


Black  Mustard-seed:  entire,  magnified. 


Embryo. 


Fig.  283. 


Transverse  section. 


The  seed  is  inodorous,  but  when  masticated  has  a pungent  and  acrid  taste.  Its  internal 
structure  is  identical  with  that  of  the  next. 

2.  Black  mustard-seed  resembles  the  preceding  in  shape,  but  has  only  a diameter 
of  1 Mm.  (^g-  inch)  and  an  average  weight  of  .001  Gin.,  is  blackish-brown  or  deep  reddish- 
brown,  has  the  testa  covered  with  shallow  pits,  and  when  crushed  and  macerated  with 
water  acquires  a strong  and  pungent  odor. 

Both  seeds,  after  the  integuments  have  been  removed,  contain  an  embryo  having  the 
shape  of  the  seed,  the  cotyledons  of  which  are  folded  along  their  midribs,  one  covering 
the  other,  while  the  radicle  is  turned  back  and  enclosed  between  the  folds  of  the  inner 
cotyledon.  This  arrangement  is  well  shown  on  a transeverse  section  of  the  seed,  which 
exhibits  on  one  side  the  round  radicle  near  and  between  the  edges  of  the  plano-convex 
folds  of  the  inner  cotyledon,  and  these  are  surrounded  by  the  concavo-convex  folds  of 
the  outer  cotyledon.  In  both  seeds  the  embryo  is  yellow  and  very  oily,  and  imparts  to 
the  powder  of  white  mustard  a dull  pale-yellow,  and  to  that  of  black  mustard  a yellow- 
ish-green color. 

Constituents. — Both  seeds  are  free  from  starch,  and  when  crushed  and  subjected 
to  pressure  yield  from  20  to  25  per  cent,  of  a yellow  or  brownish-yellow  fixed  oil,  which 
congeals  between  — 15°  and  — 17.5°  C.  (5°  and  .5°  F.)  to  a butyraceous  mass.  This 
fixed  oil  of  mustard  does  not  readily  turn  rancid,  has  a bland  taste,  and  consists  of  olein 
with  some  stearin  and  the  glycerides  of  erucic  acid,  C22H4202,  and  of  helienic  acid , C22H4402 
(p.  1154),  but  when  expressed  between  heated  plates  from  black  mustard  it  has  to  some 
extent  the  pungent  odor  and  taste  of  these  seeds  after  maceration  in  water.  The  oils 
have  the  specific  gravity  0.916,  and  give  with  sulphuric  acid  a green  or  blue-green  after- 
ward brown  color,  and  with  fuming  nitric  acid  a red  color.  Erucic  or  hrassic  acid  forms 
white  shining  tasteless  needles  which  fuse  at  about  34°  C.  (93.2°  F.).  It  was  discovered 
by  Darby  (1849),  who  isolated  also  another  fatty  acid,  sinapoleic  acid,  which,  according 
to  Stadeler  (1853),  has  the  formula  C20H;48O2.  The  two  kinds  of  mustard-seed  contain 
a considerable  amount  of  mucilage  in  the  epidermis,  and  various  ptoteids,  the  most 
interesting  of  which  is  myrosin  ; and  this  is  obtainable,  according  to  Bussy  (1839),  from 


1446 


SINAPIS  NIGRA . 


the  cold  infusion  of  white  mustard  by  concentrating  it  below  40°  C.  (104°  F.)  and  pre- 
cipitating the  syrupy  liquid  with  not  too  large  a quantity  of  alcohol.  Myrosin  acts  as 
a ferment  upon  two  distinct  principles,  one  being  contained  in  white  and  the  other  in 
black  mustard,  and  yields  among  their  products  of  decomposition  those  compounds  to 
which  the  acrid  and  pungent  properties  of  both  seeds  are  due.  Myrosin  is  coagulated 
by  heat  and  by  alcohol ; hence  black  mustard  introduced  into  boiling  water  does  not 
yield  the  volatile  oil.  Both  mustard-seeds  yield  from  4 to  5 per  cent,  of  ash,  containing 
37.4  per  cent,  of  phosphoric  acid. 

The  principle  of  white  mustard  yielding  the  acrid  compound  was  fully  investigated  by 
H.  Will  (1870),  and  named  by  him  sinalbin , C30H44N2S2O16.  It  had  been  previously 
obtained  in  a nearly  pure  state,  and  was  experimented  with  by  Henry  and  Garot,  Bou- 
tron,  Bobiquet,  Winckler,  Babo,  and  others,  being  described  as  sinapine  sulphocyanate , 
sulpho-sinapisin , sinapin,  and  under  various  other  names.  Sinalbin  is  obtained  from  white 
mustard  which  has  been  deprived  of  its  fixed  oil  by  exhausting  it  with  boiling  alcohol, 
from  which  it  crystallizes  on  cooling.  When  pure  it  forms  small  glass-like  inodorous 
bitter  prisms  which  are  freely  soluble  in  water,  but  sparingly  soluble  in  cold  alcohol,  and 
insoluble  in  ether,  oil  of  turpentine,  and  carbon  disulphide ; it  is  perfectly  neutral,  is 
not  colored  by  ferric  chloride,  yields  white  precipitates  with  corrosive  sublimate  and 
silver  nitrate,  is  colored  yellow  by  traces  of  alkalies,  and  by  myrosin  is  decomposed  into 
sugar,  acid,  sinapine  sulphate , C16H23N05.H2S04,  and  acrinyl  sulphocyanate , C7H7O.NCS. 
This  last  compound  is  obtainable  by  agitating  the  aqueous  liquid  with  ether,  on  the 
evaporation  of  which  it  remains  as  a nearly  colorless,  thick,  non-volatile  oil,  which  is 
readily  soluble  in  alcohol  and  ether,  has  a sweetish,  afterward  acrid  and  biting  taste, 
and  possesses  epispastic  properties ; it  is  not  colored  red  by  ferric  chloride  until  after  its 
alcoholic  solution  has  been  heated  with  an  alkali  and  again  acidulated.  Sinapine  is  an 
alkaloid  which  has  not  been  isolated,  since  it  is  readily  decomposed ; the  solution  of  its 
salts  are  colored  yellow  by  alkalies,  and  on  boiling  the  mixtures  yield  a strong  base, 
sinkaline  and  sinapic  acid , the  barium  salt  of  which  is  nearly  insoluble  in  cold  water ; 
Van  Babo  and  Hirschbrunn  (1852)  gave  these  two  compounds  the  formulas  C5H13NO 
and  CnH1205. 

A principle  analogous  to  sinalbin  exists  in  black  mustard,  and  was  recognized  by 
Bussy  as  a peculiar  acid,  myronic  acid,  combined  with  potassium.  Although  he  observed 
also  volatile  oil  of  mustard  among  its  products  of  decomposition  by  myrosin,  the  exact 
composition  and  behavior  of  potassium  myronate,  for  which  Will  (1870)  proposed  the 
name  sinigrin , were  not  ascertained  until  investigated  by  Will  and  Korner  (1863).  Sini- 
grin  is  obtained  from  black  mustard  exhausted  with  boiling  strong  alcohol  by  treating  it 
with  cold  water,  adding  a little  barium  carbonate  to  the  infusion,  evaporating  to  a syrupy 
consistence,  and  boiling  this  residue  repeatedly  with  85  per  cent,  alcohol,  on  the  evapora- 
tion of  which  sinigrin  is  left.  The  yield  is  .5  to  .6  per  cent.  When  pure  it  is  in  white, 
silky,  inodorous  needles,  or,  if  crystallized  from  water,  in  short  glass-like  prisms,  has 
a cooling  bitter  taste,  dissolves  in  water,  is  insoluble  in  chloroform,  ether,  and  benzene, 
and  nearly  insoluble  in  absolute  alcohol.  When  treated  with  myrosin  it  is  decomposed 
into  allyl  sulphocyanate  or  volatile  oil  of  mustard,  C4H5NS  (see  page  1154),  acid  potassium 
sulphate,  KHS04,  and  sugar.  The  analogous  decompositions  of  the  peculiar  principles 
of  white  and  black  mustard  are  explained  by  the  following  equations : 

Sinalbin,  C30H44N2S2O16  = C8H7NSO  + C]6H25NS09  + C6H1206. 

Sinigrin,  C10H18NS2KO10  = C4H5NS  + HKS04  + C6H1206. 

Adulterations. — Mustard-seed  is  not  subject  to  adulteration,  but  ground  mustard 
is  very  often  mixed  with  various  farinaceous  substances,  and  the  cold  decoction  will  then 
acquire  a blue  or  greenish  tint  on  the  addition  of  an  aqueous  solution  of  iodine.  Ground 
white  mustard  has  a dull  gray-yellow  color,  which  is  often  rendered  brighter  by  the 
addition  of  turmeric ; it  will  then  respond  to  the  test  for  starch,  and  will  acquire  a red- 
brown  color  with  solution  of  boric  acid  or  of  borax. 

Allied  Plants. — Brassica  (Sinapis,  Limit?)  juncea,  Hooker  flius,  is  extensively  cultivated  in 
Southern  Russia,  and  constitutes  the  Sarepta  or  Russian  mustard.  It  is  likewise  cultivated  in 
Africa  and  India,  and  is  exported  from  the  latter  country  to  Europe.  The  seeds  closely  resemble 
those  of  black  mustard  and  yield  the  same  products. 

Br.  sinapistrum,  Boissier,  s.  Sinapis  arvensis,  Limit,  called  charlock,  is  a European  annual, 
and  a troublesome  weed  in  some  parts  of  the  United  States,  and  has  nearly  smooth,  dark-brown 
seeds,  which  are  sihaller  and  less  pungent  than  those  of  black  mustard. 

Br.  campestris,  Linnt,  is  extensively  cultivated  in  several  varieties,  the  principal  ones  being 


SIN  A PIS  NIGRA. 


1447 


Br.  Napus,  with  glaucous  foliage,  and  Br.  Rapa,  with  green  foliage ; they  yield  the  various  kinds 
of  turnip , and  the  seeds,  which  are  respectively  2 and  1.5  Mm.  (T\  and  inch)  thick,  and  less 
pungent  than  black  mustard-seed,  are  used  for  obtaining  the  bland  yellowish  rape-seed  and  colza 
oil  (lluile  de  navette,  de  colza,  Fr. ; Riibol,  Rapsol,  Kohlsaatbl,  G.).  These  oils  are  brownish 
or  greenish-yellow,  have  a somewhat  acrid  taste,  are  more  bland  after  refining,  yellow,  of  about 
the  spec.  grav.  0.913,  congeal  near  — 5°  C.  (23°  F.),  and  are  colored  green-brown  or  brownish- 
yellow  by  sulphuric  acid. 

Raphanus  raphanistrum,  Linn<Z,  is  a weed  known  as  wild  radish  and  jointed  charlock.  Ac- 
cording to  Pless  (1846),  the  seeds  contain  also  oil  of  mustard,  but  the  sulphuretted  volatile  oil 
obtained  from  the  garden  radish,  Raphanus  sativus,  Linnt,  appears  to  be  different.  The  fixed 
oils  expressed  from  these  seeds  closely  resemble  those  of  mustard-seeds. 

Action  and  Uses. — Mustard-seed,  taken  whole  in  doses  of  a teaspoonful  three  or 
four  times  a day,  have  a laxative  action  upon  the  bowels  and  are  discharged  without  per- 
ceptible change.  As  cases  have  occurred  in  which  an  accumulation  of  them  obstructed 
the  bowel,  and  as  they  also  may  possibly  find  their  way,  with  fatal  effect,  into  the  vermi- 
form appendix,  they  should  be  used  cautiously  and  swallowed  with  a large  quantity  of 
water. 

Powdered  mustard  applied  to  the  tongue  or  throat  causes  prickling  and  burning.  It 
promotes  the  digestion  of  food,  but  too  much  of  it  or  its  prolonged  use  enfeebles  the 
stomach.  In  large  quantities,  a teaspoonful  or  more,  diffused  through  tepid  water,  it  acts 
as  a prompt  and  efficient  emetic.  Care  should  be  taken  to  evacuate  all  of  the  mustard 
swallowed. 

Applied  as  a sinapism  to  the  skin,  it  produces  after  several  minutes  an  acute  prickling, 
stinging,  and  burning  pain,  the  skin  grows  red,  and,  if  the  application  is  too  prolonged,  is 
blistered.  The  blisters  are  followed  by  ulcers  which  are  very  difficult  to  heal.  The 
rapidity  and  completeness  of  the  effect  depend  upon  the  delicacy  of  the  skin  to  which  the 
sinapism  is  applied.  Hence  great  caution  should  be  observed  in  prescribing  it  for  chil- 
dren and  females.  Gangrene  and  death  have  resulted  from  applying  a mustard  poultice 
to  the  swollen  glands  of  a child’s  neck. 

On  the  other  hand,  when  the  skin  is  naturally  tough  or  when  its  vitality  is  impaired* 
by  collapse,  chill,  or  low  states  of  the  system  generally,  sinapisms  may  fail  to  exert  any 
influence  whatever.  In  these  several  cases  sinapisms  made  with  water  are  referred  to ; 
those  made  with  vinegar  possess  very  inferior  activity,  and  the  mustard  is  less  active  in 
proportion  as  the  vinegar  is  stronger.  This  fact,  although  now  generally  unknown,  the 
ancients  were  well  acquainted  with. 

The  effects  of  a general  mustard  bath  at  86°  F.  are  singular.  At  first  wandering  chills 
are  felt  in  the  loins,  back,  abdomen,  and  limbs,  followed  by  a feeling  of  decided  coldness 
and  twitching  of  the  extremities. % There  is  even  suffering  from  a sense  of  cold.  Later, 
and  even  after  the  skin  has  become  red,  the  sensation  of  coldness  continues  until  the 
patient  leaves  the  water,  when  reaction  is  speedily  established,  with  stinging  and  burning 
of  the  integument. 

Volatile  oil  of  mustard  is  a powerful  irritant.  A single  drop  of  it  upon  the  tongue 
causes  a severe  burning  pain  which  extends  to  the  throat,  nose,  and  stomach.  Upon  the 
skin  it  acts  promptly  as  a vesicant  and  caustic. 

For  internal  purposes,  and  particularly  where  the  whole  seed  is  given,  white  mustard- 
seed  is  to  be  preferred.  In  atonic  dyspepsia  with  constipation  it  has  long  been  employed 
with  advantage  in  the  dose  of  a teaspoonful  and  in  a draught  of  water  before  or  after 
meals.  It  prevents  flatulence,  promotes  digestion,  and  keeps  the  bowels  regular.  But, 
like  all  condiments,  it  loses  its  effect  by  use.  An  infusion  of  mustard  has  sometimes  suc- 
ceeded in  arresting  obstinate  hiccough.  It  is  one  of  the  most  prompt  and  efficient  emetics 
which  can  be  used  in  cases  of  narcotic  poisoning.  In  the  early  stage  of  delirium  tremens 
a mustard  emetic  will  sometimes  cut  short  the  attack.  In  atonic  dropsy  mustard  whey 
or  an  infusion  of  whole  mustard-seed  in  cider  is  a diuretic  of  considerable  power.  For- 
merly a tincture  or  wine  of  mustard-seed  was  officinal.  Mr.  England  has  proposed  to 
revive  its  use  ( Amer . Jour.  Phar .,  xix.  124).  That  the  active  principle  of  mustard  is 
carried  into  the  circulation  is  shown  by  the  benefits  accruing  from  the  use  of  white  mus- 
tard-seed in  chronic  bronchitis , chronic  rheumatism , and  some  cutaneous  affections.  This 
use  of  the  medicine  has  been  condemned  as  being  destitute  of  a rational  basis,  but  the 
only  rational  basis  for  the  use  of  a medicine  is  its  power  to  cure,  and  that  is  sufficiently 
attested  in  the  present  case. 

Externally,  oil  of  mustard  has  been  successfully  used  in  the  treatment  of  scabies.  But 
one  of  the  most  usual  and  useful  applications  of  mustard  is  in  the  form  of  poultice,  plas- 
ter, or  bath  to  produce  a lively  stimulation,  and  thereby  arouse  the  nervous  system,  as  in 


1448 


SODA. 


the  insensibility  of  swooning  and  hysteria , in  which  it  acts  by  exciting  a sense  of  pain, 
and  in  the  convulsions  of  children,  in  which  it  stimulates  the  nervous  system  and  perhaps 
disperses  morbid  accumulations  of  blood  in  the  central  nervous  organs.  In  foot-baths  it 
relieves  headache  and  cerebral  and  other  internal  congestions , especially  uterine  congestion 
accompanied  with  dysmenorrhoea.  Dr.  Weber  claims  to  have  been  remarkably  successful 
in  the  treatment  of  pneumonia  in  children  by  means  of  the  hot  mustard  bath.  He  placed 
the  child  in  a bath-tub  filled  with  water  at  a temperature  of  from  100°  to  105°  F.,  and 
had  the  skin  rubbed  thoroughly  until  it  began  to  look  red.  This  process  required  from 
seven  to  ten  minutes,  when  the  child  was  wiped  dry  and  put  into  a bed  previously  warmed. 
No  ill  effects  were  observed  from  allowing  the  genitals  to  remain  unprotected.  The  bath 
was  repeated,  if  necessary,  as  often  as  every  three  hours.  General  baths,  at  a tempera- 
ture of  from  77°  to  82°  F.,  containing  2 or  3 ounces  of  mustard  and  applied  for  the  space 
of  half  an  hour,  have  been  used  with  great  advantage  in  allaying  the  violence  of  insanity. 
Large  poultices  or  epithems  containing  mustard  and  sinapised  hip-baths  have  been  bene- 
ficial in  analogous  conditions.  However  it  may  be  explained,  it  is  certain  that  mustard 
pediluvia,  and  even  mustard  plasters  employed  to  relieve  pain,  frequently  induce  sleep ; 
indeed,  it  sometimes  happens  that  the  patient  falls  asleep  while  the  plaster  is  “ drawing,” 
with  the  result  of  producing  painful  and  intractable  sores. 

When  the  action  of  a part  is  morbidly  diminished  or  that  of  an  internal  organ  is  mor- 
bidly increased,  as  in  retrocedent  gout  or  rheumatism , or  where  a part  is  too  anaemic  for 
the  application  of  leeches , or  where  a muscle  or  muscles  suffer  partial  atrophy , mustard 
poultices,  etc.  are  sometimes  beneficial. 

Every  form  almost  of  local  pain  may  be  relieved  in  the  same  manner  as  that  of  sub- 
acute and  chronic  articular  rheumatism,  pleurodynia,  neuralgia,  toothache,  earache,  flatulent 
colic,  muscular  rheumatism,  and  dysmenorrhoea.  The  same  is  true  of  various  abnormal 
discharges,  such  as  vomiting,  diarrhoea , cholera  morbus , and  dysentery.  In  epidemic  chob 
era  general  mustard  baths  have  frequently  been  found  beneficial  in  the  early  stages  of 
the  disease,  and  occasionally  in  the  cyanotic  stage.  Like  other  vegetable  powders,  mus- 
'tard  flour  is  useful  in  removing  from  the  hands  unpleasant  smells. 

Of  white  mustard-seed  1 or  2 teaspoonfuls  in  3 or  4 ounces  of  water  may  be  taken 
once  a day  or  oftener.  The  infusion  of  mustard,  for  an  emetic,  is  prepared  by  adding  1, 
2,  or  3 teaspoonfuls  of  mustard  flour  to  a pint  of  warm  water.  Mustard  whey  is  made 
by  adding  to  a pint  of  milk  mixed  with  a quart  of  water  1^  ounces  of  bruised  mustard- 
seed,  boiling  the  mixture  until  it  is  curdled,  and  straining  off  the  whey.  A wine-glassful 
may  be  given  every  hour  or  two.  The  sinapism,  or  mustard  plaster,  is  prepared  by  add- 
ing cold  or  lukewarm  water  to  equal  quantities  of  mustard  and  wheaten  or  rye  flour,  and 
stirring  until  a thick  paste  is  formed.  This  is  spread  upon  linen  or  other  convenient  tis- 
sue and  applied  to  the  skin.  It  is  well  to  interpose  a piece  of  gauze  between  the  plaster 
and  the  body,  to  prevent  the  former  from  adhering.  It  should  remain  applied  from  ten 
minutes  to  an  hour,  according  to  the  degree  of  its  action.  The  mustard  cataplasm 
( Pharm . Br .)  is  an  ordinary  flaxseed-meal  or  corn-meal  poultice  with  which  ground  mus- 
tard has  been  mixed ; it  is  intended  to  maintain  a gentler  but  more  prolonged  action  than 
the  sinapism.  Instead  of  meal,  a soft  sponge,  saturated  with  a mixture  of  mustard  and 
water  and  enclosed  in  a thin  linen  or  muslin  cover,  may  be  employed.  “ Mustard-leaves  ” 
should  be  dipped  in  water  before  being  applied.  Sinapised  pediluvia  are  made  by  adding 
a sufficient  quantity  (a  tablespoonful  or  two)  of  mustard  flour  to  an  ordinary  foot-bath. 
When  pediluvia  are  used  as  general  stimulants,  they  should  be  as  warm  as  they  can  be 
borne  ; but  when  employed  as  derivatives,  especially  from  the  head  and  chest,  their  tem- 
perature should  not  exceed  that  of  the  blood,  or  from  98°  to  100°  F.  The  essential  oil 
of  mustard  has  been  prescribed  internally  in  an  emulsion  in  the  dose  of  from  yL-  to  J of 
a drop.  It  may  be  used  externally  as  a rubefacient  in  the  proportion  of  Gm.  1.60  to 
Gm.  32  (gtt.  xxiv  in  f^j)  of  alcohol,  or  Gm.  0.30  to  Gm.  4 (gtt.  v-vj  in  f^j)  of  almond 
oil.  Care  must  be  taken  to  proportion  the  strength  of  the  liniment  to  the  delicacy  of 
the  skin.  The  best  application  for  the  sores  produced  by  mustard  is  lime-water  liniment ; 
if  the  pain  be  severe,  the  part  may  first  be  covered  with  stramonium  ointment.  Later, 
poultices  of  grated  raw  carrots,  and  finally  oxide-of-zinc  ointment,  may  be  employed. 

SODA,  U.  S.,  Br.— Soda. 

Soda  caustica , Br. ; Natrum  causticum , Natrium  hydricum. — Caustic  soda,  Sodium 
hydroxide , Sodium  hydrate,  E. ; Sonde  caustique,  Fr. ; Natron,  Aetznatron,  G. 

Formula  NaOIl.  Molecular  weight  39.96. 


SOI)  A. 


1449 


Soda  should  be  kept  in  well-stoppered  bottles  made  of  hard  glass. 

Preparation. — Take  of  solution  of  soda  2 pints.  Boil  down  rapidly  in  a silver  or 
clean  iron  vessel  until  there  remains  a fluid  of  oily  consistence,  a drop  of  which,  when 
removed  on  a warmed  glass  rod,  solidifies  on  cooling.  Pour  the  fluid  on  a clean  silver  or 
iron  plate  or  into  moulds,  and  as  soon  as  it  has  solidified  break  it  in  pieces  and  preserve 
it  in  stoppered  green-glass  bottles. — Br. 

The  preparation  of  solution  of  soda  is  described  on  page  981.  On  evaporating  it, 
sodium  hydroxide  is  left,  and  this  is  either  moulded  into  thin  cylinders  or  congealed  on  a 
plate  or  tile.  Vessels  of  porcelain,  glass,  etc.  are  readily  corroded;  soda  must  therefore 
be  prepared  in  clean  iron  or  silver  vessels.  For  uses  in  the  arts  caustic  soda  is  exten- 
sively prepared  from  the  same  raw  material  from  which  sodium  carbonate  and  bicarbonate 
are  made ; baryta  and  strontia  have  been  used  in  the  place  of  lime,  and  various  compli- 
cated processes  have  been  applied  in  the  manufacture.  Soda  was  first  obtained  by  Stahl 
(1702),  but  its  preparation  from  the  sulphate  and  chloride  was  first  described  by  Duhamel 
(U36). 

Properties. — Caustic  soda  is  white  (or  grayish-white,  Br .),  hard,  opaque,  inodorous, 
very  alkaline  in  reaction,  strongly  corrosive,  and  of  an  intensely  acrid  and  caustic  taste. 
It  is  usually  seen  in  irregular  fragments  having  a fibrous  appearance,  or  in  cylindrical 
sticks  which  are  crystalline  upon  a fresh  fracture.  On  exposure  to  the  atmosphere  it 
absorbs  water  and  is  liquefied,  and  subsequently  it  solidifies  again  and  becomes  efflores- 
cent, in  consequence  of  the  absorption  of  carbon  dioxide  and  the  crystallization  and 
efflorescence  of  sodium  carbonate.  According  to  Osann,  1 part  of  water  dissolves  at  18° 
C.  (64.4°  F.)  0.6  parts  of  soda,  while  boiling  water  takes  up  li  parts;  such  concentrated 
solutions,  when  exposed  to  a temperature  of  — 10°  C.  (14°  F.)  or  less,  separate  thick 
tabular  crystals  of  the  hydrate,  2Na0H.7H20,  which  melt  again  above  6°  C.  (42.8°  F.). 
Soda  is  also  freely  soluble  in  alcohol.  The  strong  aqueous  solution  of  soda  dropped  into 
test-solution  of  tartaric  acid,  so  that  the  latter  remains  in  excess,  deposits  acicular  crys- 
tals of  acid  sodium  tartrate,  which  are  dissolved  on  the  addition  of  more  soda  or  of 
water.  “Soluble  in  1.7  parts  of  water  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  and  in  0.8  part  of  boiling 
water;  very  soluble  in  alcohol.  When  heated  to  about  525°  C.  (977°  F.),  soda  melts  to 
a clear,  oily  liquid,  and  at  a bright  red  heat  it  is  slowly  volatilized  unchanged.  When 
introduced  into  a non-luminous  flame,  it  imparts  to  it  an  intensely  yellow  color.  A solu- 
tion of  soda,  even  when  greatly  diluted,  gives  an  intensely  alkaline  reaction  with  litmus- 
paper.” — U.  S. 

Tests. — Alcohol  dissolves  caustic  soda,  but  leaves  most  of  the  salts  behind  which  are 
likely  to  be  present.  “ The  aqueous  solution  (1  in  20)  should  be  perfectly  clear  and 
colorless  (absence  of  organic  matter),  and  should  yield  no  precipitate  on  the  addition  of 
platinic  chloride  test-solution,  or  sodium  cobaltic  nitrite  test-solution,  or  excess  of  tartaric 
acid  test-solution  (absence  of  potassium).  If  1 Gin.  of  soda  be  dissolved  in  10  Cc.  of 
water  and  the  solution  slightly  supersaturated  with  acetic  acid,  10  Cc.  of  the  solution 
should  not  be  colored  or  rendered  turbid  by  the  addition  of  an  equal  volume  of  hydrogen 
sulphide  test-solution  (absence  of  arsenic,  copper,  lead,  etc.),  nor  by  the  subsequent  addi- 
tion of  ammonia-water  in  slight  excess  (absence  of  iron,  aluminum,  etc.).  The  remainder 
of  the  acidulated  solution  should  not  be  rendered  turbid  by  ammonium  oxalate  test-solu- 
tion (absence  of  calcium).  If  a solution  of  1.2  Gm.  of  soda  in  10  Cc.  of  water  be 
slightly  supersaturated  with  nitric  acid,  then  0.5  Cc.  of  decinormal  silver  nitrate  solution 
added,  and  the  precipitate,  if  any,  removed  by  filtration,  the  clear  filtrate  should  remain 
unaffected  by  the  addition  of  more  silver  nitrate  test-solution  (limit  of  chloride).  If  to 
a solution  of  2.5  Gm.  of  soda  in  10  Cc.  of  water,  strongly  supersaturated  with  hydro- 
chloric acid,  0.1  Cc.  of  barium  chloride  test-solution  be  added,  and  the  precipitate,  if  any, 
removed  by  filtration,  the  clear  filtrate  should  remain  unaffected  by  the  further  addition 
of  barium  chloride  test-solution  (limit  of  sulphate).  If  0.7  Gm.  of  soda  be  dissolved  in 
1.5  Cc.  of  water,  and  the  solution  added  to  10  Cc.  of  alcohol,  not  more  than  a slight 
white  precipitate  should  occur  within  ten  minutes  (limit  of  silicate,  etc.).  After  boiling 
this  alcoholic  solution  with  5 Cc.  of  calcium  hydroxide  test-solution  and  filtering,  not  the 
slightest  effervescence  should  take  place  on  adding  the  filtrate  to  an  excess  of  diluted 
hydrochloric  acid  (limit  of  carbonate).  If  0.2  Gm.  of  soda  be  dissolved  in  2 Cc.  of 
water  and  carefully  mixed  with  5 Cc.  of  pure  sulphuric  acid  and  3 drops  of  indigo  test- 
solution,  the  blue  color  should  not  be  discharged  (limit  of  nitrate).  To  neutralize  0.4 
Gm.  of  soda  should  require  not  less  than  9 Cc.  of  normal  sulphuric  acid  (each  Cc.  corre- 
sponding to  10  per  cent,  of  pure  sodium  hydroxide),  phenolphtalein  being  used  as  indi- 
cator.”— U.  S.  40  grains  of  soda  dissolved  in  water  should  leave  scarcely  any  sediment, 


1450 


SODII  ACETAS. 


and  require  for  neutralization  about  900  grain-measures  of  the  volumetric  solution  of 
oxalic  acid  (Br.),  indicating  the  presence  of  about  90  per  cent,  of  NaOH.  Commercial 
soda  sometimes  contains  alumina,  which  is  soluble  in  water,  but  insoluble  in  alcohol ; on 
treating  with  excess  of  ammonium  chloride,  it  will  separate  as  a white  gelatinous  pre- 
cipitate, which  is  dissolved  again  by  excess  of  hydrochloric  acid.  Sulphide,  if  present, 
will  cause  the  precipitate  with  lead  salt  to  be  more  or  less  brown,  instead  of  white,  and 
cyanide  will  produce  Prussian  blue  on  adding  to  the  solution  a little  ferrous  and  ferric 
salt  and  acidulating  with  hydrochloric  acid. 

Composition. — The  formula  of  soda  is  NaOH.  When  pure  it  contains  22.5  per 
cent.  H20  and  77.5  per  cent.  Na20.  Crystallized  sodium  hydroxides  are  also  known 
containing  3?  and  1£  molecules  of  water,  and  respectively  30.1  and  46.3  per  cent. 
Na20. 

Metallic  Sodium  and  Salts. — Sodium,  s.  Natrium , was  isolated  by  H.  Davy  (1807),  and  is  pre- 
pared on  a large  scale  by  heating  in  an  iron  retort  an  intimate  mixture  of  30  parts  of  exsiccated 
sodium  carbonate,  13  parts  of  coal,  and  5 parts  of  chalk:  the  reduction  takes  place  at  a lower 
temperature  than  is  required  for  the  isolation  of  potassium.  Recently  a process  has  been  intro- 
duced by  Castner  for  the  manufacture  of  sodium,  which  consists  in  the  reduction  of  sodium  hy- 
droxide by  heating  it  with  an  intimate  mixture  of  finely-divided  iron  and  carbon.  The  mass  is 
prepared  by  mixing  the  iron  with  molten  pitch,  allowing  it  to  cool,  breaking  it  into  pieces,  and 
heating  to  a comparatively  high  temperature  without  access  of  air.  The  reduction  is  said  to  take 
place  at  a temperature  of  825°,  instead  of  1400°,  as  in  the  older  method.  The  main  reaction  is 
represented  by  this  equation:  6NaOH  -j-  FeC2  = 2Na2C03  -f-  6H  + 2Na  -j-  Fe  (Remsen).  So- 
dium is  silver-gray,  has  a strong  metallic  lustre,  and  at  ordinary  temperatures  may  be  cut  like 
wax.  It  melts  at  95.6°  C.  (204.08°  F.),  and  at  a red  heat  volatilizes.  Its  density  is  0.97.  In  con- 
tact with  air  it  is  oxidized,  and  therefore  requires  to  be  kept  under  petroleum  naphtha,  or  should 
be  protected  by  being  coated  with  a layer  of  paraffin,  as  proposed  by  Wagner  (1863).  It  unites 
with  oxygen,  forming  monoxide , Na20,  and  dioxide , Na202.  It  was  admitted  in  the  Br.  P.  for 
preparing  solution  of  sodium  ethylate  (page  982). 

Salts  of  Sodium.  Soda  is  nearly  as  strong  a base  as  potassa,  and  yields  salts  which  are  color- 
less unless  the  acid  is  colored,  have  a neutral  reaction  except  those  with  weak  acids,  and  are  not 
volatilized  at  a low  red  heat,  and  somewhat  less  readily  than  potassium  salts  at  a higher  temper- 
ature. They  impart  to  flame  an  intense  yellow  color,  which  is  not  visible  if  examined  through 
a blue  glass.  They  are  mostly  readily  soluble  in  water,  and  these  solutions  yield  with  hydro- 
fluosilicic  acid  gelatinous  precipitates,  and,  when  neutral  or  alkaline,  afford  with  potassium  met- 
antimonate  white  crystalline  precipitates.  Similar  precipitates  are  obtained  with  most  other 
metallic  salts,  which  must  therefore  be  removed  by  the  proper  reagents,  with  the  exception  of 
those  of  potassium,  before  the  test  for  sodium  is  applied. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  chemical  and  toxical  actions  of  soda  are  the  same  as  those 
of  potassa.  (For  a detailed  description  see  Lesser,  Virchow's  Archiv , lxxxiii.  224). 
Caustic  soda,  although  less  deliquescent,  and  therefore  more  manageable,  than  caustic 
potassa,  is  not  so  generally  employed  as  an  escharotic.  It  would  appear  probable  also 
that  as  it  is  more  assimilable,  and  therefore  less  apt  than  potassa  to  be  immediately 
secreted  with  the  urine,  it  should  be  better  adapted  than  the  latter  for  all  cases  in  which 
it  is  desired  to  render  the  blood  and  the  secretions  more  alkaline.  Moreover,  sodium 
salts  are  less  offensive  to  the  taste  than  potassium  salts,  and  of  less  poisonous  qualities. 
But  in  either  case  the  bicarbonates  are  preferable  to  the  alkalies  themselves.  Soda  is* 
administered  in  the  official  solution  and  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.60-1.30  (gr.  x-xx). 


SODH  ACETAS,  TJ.  S. — Sodium  Acetate. 

Soda s acetas , Br.  1867;  Natrium  aceticum,  P.  G.  ; Acetas  sodicus  (natricus) ; Terra 
foliata  tartari  crystallisata. — Acetate  of  soda , E.  ; Acetate  de  soude , Fr.  ; Natriumacetat 
Essigsaures  Natron , G. 

Formula  NaC2H302.3H20.  Molecular  weight  135.74. 

Preparation. — Sodium  acetate  was  first  prepared  by  Duhamel  (1736)  and  by  J.  F. 
Meyer  (1767),  and  was  made  by  Doerffurt  (1793)  from  sugar  of  lead  by  decomposing  it 
with  sodium  carbonate  and  sulphate.  It  may  be  obtained  by  neutralizing  acetic  acid  or 
by  decomposing  lead  acetate  with  sodium  carbonate,  in  the  latter  case  filtering  from  the 
insoluble  lead  carbonate  and  evaporating  the  clear  liquids  to  crystallization.  The  salt  is, 
however,  manufactured  on  a large  scale  in  the  United  States  in  the  process  for  purifying 
acetic  acid  from  wood-vinegar.  (See  p.  19.) 

Properties. — This  salt  crystallizes  in  colorless,  transparent,  monoclinic  prisms  which 
are  odorless  and  slightly  alkaline,  have  a bitterish  saline  taste,  and  are  somewhat  efflores- 


SODII  ARSEN  AS. 


1451 


Crystal  of  Sodium  Ace- 
tate. 


cent  on  exposure,  falling  in  dry  air  to  a white  powder.  “ Soluble,  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  in 
1.4  parts  of  water  and  in  39  parts  of  alcohol  ; in  0.5  part  of  boil- 
ing water  and  in  2 parts  of  boiling  alcohol.  When  heated  to  00° 

C.  (140°  F.),  the  salt  begins  to  liquefy.  At  123°  C.  (253.4°  F.), 
it  becomes  dry  and  anhydrous  ; at  300°  C.  (599°  F.),  it  is  decom- 
posed with  evolution  of  inflammable,  empyreumatic  vapors,  leaving 
a black  residue  of  sodium  carbonate  and  carbon,  which  imparts  to  a 
non-luminous  flame  an  intensely  yellow  color,  gives  an  alkaline 
reaction  with  moistened  litmus-paper,  and  effervesces  with  acids. 

The  aqueous  solution  (1  in  20)  of  the  salt  colors  litmus-paper  blue, 
but  does  not  redden  phenolphtalein  solution,  unless  carbonate  be 
present.  If  5 Cc.  of  the  aqueous  solution  be  heated  with  1 Cc.  of 
sulphuric  acid  and  0.5  Cc.  of  alcohol,  acetic  ether  will  be  formed, 
recognizable  by  its  odor.” — U.  S.  The  salt  is  insoluble  in  ether. 

Sulphuric  acid  liberates  from  it  acetic  acid,  and  its  aqueous  solution 
becomes  deep-red  with  ferric  salts,  and  on  boiling  yields  a brown-red 
precipitate. 

Tests. — A concentrated  solution  of  sodium  acetate  yields  with  silver  nitrate  a crystal- 
line precipitate  of  silver  acetate.  Carbonate,  if  present,  is  detected  by  the  effervescence 
produced  by  the  salt  when  thrown  into  a diluted  acid  or  on  adding  hydrochloric  or  nitric 
acid  to  its  aqueous  solution  ; the  latter  acidulated  as  indicated,  when  evaporated  to  dry- 
ness should  leave  a residue  which  is  entirely  soluble  in  water  (absence  of  silica).  “ If  a 
non-luminous  flame  be  colored  by  the  introduction  of  the  salt,  and  viewed  through  a blue 
glass,  the  yellow  color  should  entirely  disappear,  no  red  color  taking  its  place  (absence 
of  potassium).  If  to  5 Cc.  of  the  aqueous  solution  (1  in  20),  slightly  acidulated  with 
acetic  acid,  an  equal  volume  of  hydrogen  sulphide  test-solution  be  added,  no  color  or  tur- 
bidity should  appear,  either  at  once  (absence  of  arsenic,  lead,  zinc,  etc.)  or  after 
adding  ammonia-water  in  slight  excess  (absence  of  iron,  etc.).  The  aqueous  solu- 
tion, acidulated  with  acetic  acid,  should  not  be  rendered  turbid  by  ammonium  oxa- 
late test-solution  (absence  of  calcium).  If  a solution  of  1 Gm.  of  the  salt  in  50  Cc. 
of  water  be  slightly  acidulated  with  nitric  acid,  then  0.5  Cc.  of  decinormal  silver 
nitrate  solution  added,  and  the  precipitate,  if  any,  removed  by  filtration,  the  clear  filtrate 
should  remain  unaffected  by  the  addition  of  more  silver  nitrate  solution  (limit  of  chloride). 
If  to  a solution  of  2 Gm.  of  the  salt  in  10  Cc.  of  water,  acidulated  with  hydrochloric  acid, 
0.1  Cc.  of  barium  chloride  test-solution  be  added,  and  the  precipitate,  if  any,  removed 
by  filtration,  the  clear  filtrate  should  remain  unaffected  by  the  further  addition  of 
barium  chloride  test-solution  (limit  of  sulphate).  If  1.36  Gm.  of  sodium  acetate  be 
completely  decomposed  at  a red  heat,  and  the  residue  dissolved  in  water,  it  should  require, 
for  complete  neutralization,  10  Cc.  of  normal  sulphuric  acid  (corresponding  to  100  per 
cent,  of  the  pure  salt),  methyl-orange  being  used  as  indicator.” — IT.  S. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Sodium  acetate  is  employed  in  preparing  acetic  acid, 
acetic  ethers,  and  other  compounds. 

Action  and  Uses. — Sodium  acetate  resembles  potassium  acetate  in  its  action,  but 
is  milder,  less  apt  to  derange  the  digestion,  and  more  efficient  as  a diuretic.  Its  dose  is 
Gm.  1-3  (gr.  xv-xlv)  in  a large  quantity  of  water  as  a diuretic.  In  doses  of  Gm.  4 (^j) 
or  more  it  is  apt  to  be  laxative. 


SODII  ARSENAS,  U.  S. — Sodium  Arsenate. 

Sodii  arsemas,  U.  S.  1880,  Br. ; Natrium  arsenicicum , Arsenins  natricus  ( sodicus ). — 
Arseniate  ( arsenate ) of  soda , E.  ; Arseniate  de  soude,  Fr. ; Natriumarsenat , Arsensaures 
Natron , G. 

Formula  Na2HAs04.7H20.  Molecular  weight  311.46. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Arsenous  Acid  10  ounces;  Sodium  Nitrate  81  ounces; 
Dried  Sodium  Carbonate  51  ounces ; Boiling  Distilled  Water  35  ounces.  Deduce  the 
dry  ingredients  separately  to  fine  powder  and  mix  them  thoroughly  in  a porcelain  mortar. 
Put  the  mixture  into  a large  clay  crucible  and  cover  it  with  the  lid.  Expose  to  a full 
red  heat  till  all  effervescence  has  ceased  and  complete  fusion  has  taken  place.  Pour  out 
the  fused  salt  on  a clean  flagstone,  and  as  soon  as  it  has  solidified,  and  while  it  is  still 
warm,  put  it  into  the  boiling  water,  stirring  diligently.  When  the  salt  has  dissolved  filter 
the  solution  through  paper  and  set  it  aside  to  crystallize.  Drain  the  crystals,  and,  having 
dried  them  rapidly  on  filtering-paper,  enclose  them  in  stoppered  bottles. — Br. 


1452 


SODII  BENZOAS. 


On  fusing  arsenous  acid  in  the  proper  proportions  with  sodium  carbonate  and  nitrate, 
carbon  dioxide,  C02,  and  nitrous  anhydride,  N203,  are  given  off,  and  the  residue  is  con- 
verted into  sodium  pyroarsenate,  as  will  be  seen  from  the  equation  As203  + 2NaN03-f- 
Na2C03  = Na4As207  -f  N203  + C02.  The  pyroarsenate,  on  being  dissolved  in  water,  is 
converted  into  orthoarsenate  by  combining  with  water  ; Na4As207  -f-  H20  yields  2Na2HAs04, 
and  this  salt  crystallizes  with  7I120.  The  carbonate  may  be  conveniently  replaced  by  an 
equivalent  quantity  of  solution  of  caustic  soda,  in  which  the  arsenous  acid  may  be  dis- 
solved, and  the  residue  left  on  evaporation  to  dryness  should  then  be  oxidized  by  fusion 
with  sodium  nitrate ; all  danger  of  expelling  arsenic  by  injudicious  heating  will  then  be 
avoided.  The  same  salt  is  also  obtained  on  oxidizing  arsenous  to  arsenic  acid  by  means 
of  hot  nitric  acid,  dissolving  the  dry  residue  in  hot  water,  and  adding  sodium  carbonate 
as  long  as  effervescence  is  produced. 

Properties. — Sodium  arsenate  crystallizes  in  colorless,  transparent,  inodorous  prisms 
having  a faint  alkaline  taste,  and  which  usually  contain  7H20  or  40.4  per  cent.  ; when 
obtained  at  a low  temperature  they  contain  12H20  or  53.7  per 
cent.  The  official  salt  is  slightly  deliquescent  in  a moist 
atmosphere,  but  in  dry  air  it  effloresces  and  loses  5H20,  the 
white  powder  which  is  finally  left  having  the  composition 
Na2HAs04.2H20,  and  containing  16.2  per  cent,  of  water  of 
crystallization,  which  is  given  off  near  148°  C.  (298.4°  F.). 
The  salt  is  soluble  at  15°  C.  in  4 parts  of  water,  is  slightly 
soluble  in  cold  alcohol,  and  is  freely  soluble  in  boiling  water 
and  in  60  parts  of  boiling  alcohol.  The  aqueous  solution  has 
a slight  alkaline  reaction,  and  yields  white  precipitates  with  the 
soluble  salts  of  barium,  calcium,  zinc,  iron,  and  lead,  and  a 
brownish-red  precipitate  with  silver  nitrate,  all  these  precipi- 
tates being  soluble  in  nitric  acid,  and  that  with  ferric  salt  turn- 
ing red  by  heat.  Hydrogen  sulphide  produces  in  the  cold  slowly 
but  rapidly  on  being  acidulated  and  heated,  a yellow  precipitate, 
which  is  completely  soluble  in  ammonium  sulphide.  When  heated 
upon  charcoal  before  the  blowpipe  the  salt  gives  off  an  alliaceous 
odor. 

Tests. — “ If  to  2 Cc.  of  the  aqueous  solution  (1  in  20)  5 Cc.  of  decinormal  silver 
nitrate  solution  be  added,  and  the  precipitate  redissolved  by  excess  of  ammonia-water 
no  black  precipitate  of  reduced  silver  should  appear  on  boiling  (absence  of  arsenite).  If 
to  5 Cc.  of  the  aqueous  solution  1 Cc.  of  ammonium  sulphide  test-solution  be  added,  no 
turbidity  or  coloration  should  appear  (absence  of  lead,  copper,  iron,  etc.).!1 — U.  S.  An 
aqueous  solution  of  12.4  grains  anhydrous  sodium  arsenate,  acidulated  with  acetic 
acid,  requires  not  less  than  34  grains  of  lead  acetate  for  complete  precipitation. — Br. 
This  test  is  intended  to  show  the  absence  of  notable  quantities  of  other  salts. 

Other  Sodium  Arsenates. — If  an  excess  of  sodium  carbonate  is  used  in  the  formula  given 
above,  the  aqueous  solution  will  contain  trisodic  arsenate , and  yield  crystals  having  a stronger 
alkaline  reaction  and  the  composition  Na3As04.12H20.  With  an  excess  of  arsenic  acid  crystals 
of  monosodic  arsenate,  NaH2As04.H20,  may  be  obtained. 

Action  and  Uses. — Sodium  arsenate  is  said  to  be  less  apt  than  potassium  arsenate 
to  produce  the  phenomena  of  arsenical  poisoning,  whether  locally  upon  the  stomach  or, 
through  the  blood,  in  the  eyelids,  conjunctivae,  etc.  It  might  be  suspected  that  the  dif- 
ference, if  real,  would  indicate  that  it  is  less  efficient.  The  fact,  however,  is  declared  to 
be  otherwise.  This  preparation  is  seldom  used,  and  then  in  the  form  of  the  officinal 
solution.  1 part  dissolved  in  30  parts  of  water  is  made  use  of  to  saturate  unglazed 
linen  paper,  from  which  the  so-called  antiasthmatic  cigars  are  prepared.  The  cure  of 
diabetes  mellitus  has  been  attributed  in  part  to  this  preparation,  but  the  observations  of  the 
late  Dr.  Flint  were  adverse  to  this  claim  ( Med . News,  li.  29).  The  dose  of  the  arsenate 
is  Gm.  0.003-0.008  (gr. 

SODH  BENZOAS,  U.  S. , Br.  Add  — Sodium  Benzoate. 

Natrium  benzoicum ; Benzoas  sodicus. — Benzoate  de  soude , Fr. ; Natriumbenzoat,  Ben- 
zoesaures  Natron , G. 

Formula  NaC7H502.H20.  Molecular  weight  161.67  (anhydrous  NaC7H502  = 143.71). 

Preparation. — Add  to  10  parts  of  benzoic  acid  suspended  in  20  parts  of  hot  water, 
gradually,  7 parts  of  sodium  bicarbonate ; after  the  evolution  of  carbon  dioxide  has 


Fig.  285. 


Crystal  of  Sodium  Ar- 
senate. 


SOD II  BENZOAS. 


1453 


ceased,  neutralize  the  liquid  exactly  by  the  addition  of  a little  benzoic  acid,  or  if  neces- 
sary with  sodium  bicarbonate  ; filter  and  evaporate  with  frequent  stirring  until  the  resi- 
due weighs  between  131  and  14  parts.  As  the  salt  separates  it  creeps  up  on  the  sides 
of  the  dish,  and  should  therefore  be  frequently  scraped  olf  and  returned  to  the  liquid 
portion.  When  sufficiently  concentrated  the  mass  is  stirred  until  cold,  when  the  remain- 
ing water  will  evaporate.  The  yield  is  13?  parts.  This  salt  being  very  efflorescent,  the 
U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia  directs  it  to  be  made  anhydrous,  for  which  purpose  the  above  solu- 
tion is  evaporated  to  dryness,  when  the  yield  is  lli  parts.  If  prepared  with  acid  sub- 
limed from  benzoin,  the  solution  of  the  salt  has  a brown  color  and  the  dry  salt  is  brownish 
or  gray. 

Properties. — Sodium  benzoate  is  described  as  being  a “ white,  amorphous  powder,  per- 
manent in  the  air,  odorless  or  having  a faint  odor  of  benzoin,  of  a sweetly-astringent  taste 
free  from  bitterness,  and  having  a neutral  reaction  ; soluble  in  1.8  parts  of  water  and  in  45 
parts  (24  parts,  Br .)  of  alcohol  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  in  1.3  parts  of  boiling  water,  and  in  20 
parts  (12  parts,  Br.)  of  boiling  alcohol.  When  heated  the  salt  melts,  emits  vapors  hav- 
ing the  odor  of  benzoic  acid,  then  chars,  and  finally  leaves  a blackened  residue  of  an 
alkaline  reaction  which  imparts  to  a non-luminous  flame  an  intense  yellow  color,  not  ap- 
pearing more  than  transiently  red  when  observed  through  a blue  glass.  On  mixing  an 
aqueous  solution  of  the  salt  with  a solution  of  ferric  sulphate  previously  diluted  with 
water,  a flesh-colored  precipitate  is  produced.” — U.  S.  According  to  Hager,  the  anhy- 
drous salt  dissolves  in  13.5  parts  of  90  per  cent,  alcohol,  in  4.5  parts  of  60  per  cent,  alco- 
hol, in  15  parts  of  glycerin,  and  is  insoluble  in  ether,  chloroform,  and  volatile  oils ; when 
heated,  the  salt  becomes  brown,  and  afterward  melts  near  450°  C.  (842°  F.)  to  a dark- 
brown  mass,  which,  ignited,  burns  for  a short  time  only. 

Tests. — “ If  5 Cc.  of  diluted  nitric  acid  be  added  to  a solution  of  1 Gm.  of  the  salt  in 
10  Cc.  of  water,  a white  precipitate  of  benzoic  acid  will  be  produced,  which,  after  thorough 
washing,  should  conform  to  the  tests  of  purity  mentioned  under  Acidum  Benzoicum. 
The  filtrate  from  the  foregoing  precipitate  should  not  be  rendered  turbid  by  silver  nitrate 
test-solution  (absence  of  chloride),  nor  by  barium  chloride  test-solution  (absence  of  sul- 
phate). 5 Cc.  of  the  aqueous  solution  (1  in  20)  should  not  form  a precipitate  with  0.5 
Cc.  of  sodium  cobaltic  nitrite  test-solution  (limit  of  potassium).  If  to  5 Cc.  of  the 
aqueous  solution  (1  in  20)  an  equal  volume  of  hydrogen  sulphide  test-solution  be  added, 
no  coloration  or  turbidity  should  be  perceptible  either  before  or  after  the  addition  of  1 
Cc.  of  ammonia-water  (absence  of  lead,  iron,  etc.).  If  2 Gm.  of  sodium  benzoate  be 
ignited  in  a porcelain  capsule  until  most  of  the  carbonaceous  matter  is  destroyed,  and 
the  residue  then  dissolved  in  20  Cc.  of  water,  it  should  require  not  less  than  13.9  Cc. 
of  normal  sulphuric  acid  for  complete  neutralization  (corresponding  to  at  least  99.8  per 
cent,  of  the  pure  salt),  methyl-orange  being  used  as  indicator.” — V.  S.  The  solution  of 
the  salt  in  40  parts  of  water  rendered  alkaline  by  lime-water  should  not  give  a white  pre- 
cipitate (carbonate,  tartrate).  The  Br.  Ph.  requires  that  10  grains  of  the  salt,  when 
ignited  shall  leave  a residue  weighing  about  3.68  grains,  which,  when  dissolved  in  water, 
requires  for  neutralization  from  69  to  70  grain-measures  of  the  volumetric  solution  of 
oxalic  acid. 

Allied  Salt. — Potassii  benzoas,  Potassium  benzoate,  KC7H502.3H20 ; mol.  weight  213.62. — 
This  salt  may  be  prepared  like  sodium  benzoate,  10  parts  of  benzoic  acid  requiring  8.2  parts  of 
potassium  bicarbonate,  the  yield  being  17.5  parts  of  potassium  benzoate  of  the  above  composition. 
It  crystallizes  with  difficulty  in  small  plates,  which  effloresce  in  air  and  are  very  soluble  in  water 
and  alcohol. 

Action  and  Uses. — Salkowski,  Fleck,  and  Buchholtz  discovered  that  sodium  ben- 
zoate prevents  the  development  of  bacteria  in  putrescible  liquids,  and  Graham  Brown 
(Arch,  f Pathol,  und  Pharm .,  viii.  151)  found  that  diphtheritic  fluids  lose  their  conta- 
gious quality  more  speedily  in  a solution  of  sodium  benzoate  than  in  one  of  sodium  sali- 
cylate or  quinine  muriate.  Letzerich  declared  that  in  his  hands  no  other  remedy  had  pro- 
duced such  rapid  and  lasting  effects  in  diphtheria.  In  patients  under  the  age  of  three 
years  he  prescribed  120  grains  a day  ; between  the  third  and  seventh  year  the  daily  dose 
was  from  120  to  180  grains;  for  children  more  than  seven  years  old,  150  to  240  grains, 
and  for  adults,  150  to  360  grains.  Moreover,  the  exudation  was  treated  with  insufflations 
of  the  powdered  benzoate  every  three  hours  or  less  frequently,  according  to  circumstances, 
or  in  older  persons  gargles  were  used  containing  the  salt  ( Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour ., 
July,  1879,  p.  88).  In  opposition  to  the  favorable  results  just  referred  to,  we  find  that 
in  Vienna  the  salt  was  not  successful  (Amer.  Jour,  of  Med.  Sci .,  Jan.  1880,  p.  254). 
Various  other  physicians,  including  Klebs  and  Kien,  reported  favorably  of  this  treat- 


1454 


SODII  BTCARBONAS. 


ment,  while  others,  even  in  Germany,  were  unable  to  see  its  advantages,  and  some  who 
at  first  approved  afterward  condemned  it  {Bull,  de  Therap..  cxii.  37).  It  has  also  been 
employed  in  ordinary  tonsillitis  and  pharyngitis,  but  its  utility  is  not  apparent.  It  is  need- 
less to  refer  particularly  to  the  curative  virtues  attributed  to  it  in  acute  rheumatism,  puer- 
peral fever,  pneumonia,  whooping  cough,  in  various  intestinal  disorders,  etc.  Whatever 
they  may  have  appeared  to  those  who  promoted  its  use,  they  have  not  prevented  the 
medicine  from  quite  fading  out  of  view. 

SODII  BICARBONAS,  U.  S.9  Br. — Sodium  Bicarbonate. 

Sodse  bicarbonas , Br. ; Natrium  bicarbonicum , P.  G. ; Natrium  carbonicum  acidulum , 
Bicarbonas  sodicus. — Bicarbonate  of  soda , Sodium  hydro  carbonate^  E.  ; Bicarbonate  de 
soude , Sel  digestif  de  Vichy , Fr. ; Natriumbicarbonat , Doppeltkohlensaures  Natron , G. 

Formula  NaHC03.  Molecular  weight  83.85. 

Sodium  bicarbonate  should  be  kept  in  well-dried  stoppered  bottles. 

Preparation. — The  British  Pharmacopaeia  of  1867  gave  a formula  for  preparing 
sodium  bicarbonate  by  saturating  a mixture  of  2 parts  of  crystallized  and  3 parts  of  dried 
sodium  carbonate  with  carbon  dioxide  generated  from  marble  with  hydrochloric  acid  ; the 
damp  salt  which  is  formed  is  then  shaken  with  half  its  weight  of  distilled  water 
occasionally  during  half  an  hour,  and  the  undissolved  portion  is  dried  by  exposure 
to  air. 

This  salt  is  rarely  if  ever  prepared  by  the  pharmacist,  but  is  manufactured  on  the 
large  scale,  one  of  the  processes  being  described  above.  Sodium  bicarbonate  does  not 
contain  any  water  of  crystallization  ; a portion  of  the  carbonate  is  therefore  used  in  the 
exsiccated  state,  and  another  portion  in  crystals,  which,  if  used  in  the  proportion  given 
above,  contain  more  than  sufficient  water  for  the  conversion  of  all  the  carbonate  used 
into  bicarbonate.  This  is  produced  according  to  the  equation  Na2C03  -f  C02  -f-  H20 
= 2NaHC03,  and  the  excess  of  water  removed  by  draining  and  exposure  to  the  air. 
In  the  United  States  the  process  of  Dr.  E.  B.  Smith  (1830)  is  employed  by  some  manu- 
facturers : Crystallized  sodium  carbonate  is  placed  in  a chamber  arranged  in  such  a 
manner  that  water  may  be  drained  off ; carbon  dioxide  is  then  conducted  into  the  cham- 
ber, and,  combining  with  the  salt,  forms  bicarbonate,  while  the  water  is  liberated  and  is 
carried  off  to  prevent  its  action  as  a solvent.  By  this  arrangement  the  crystalline  structure 
of  the  carbonate  is  usually  not  disturbed,  except  that  the  crystals  lose  their  transparency 
and  become  opaque  in  proportion  as  the  carbonate  is  converted  into  bicarbonate,  and  are 
porous  and  friable. 

The  same  salt  is  also  obtained  in  Solvay’s  process  for  soda : a concentrated  solution  of 
sodium  chloride  is  mixed  with  ammonia,  and  the  liquid  saturated  with  carbon  dioxide 
under  a pressure  of  about  two  atmospheres,  when  sodium  bicarbonate  is  deposited  and 
ammonium  chloride  remains  in  solution. 

It  is  obviously  not  essential  that  the  carbon  dioxide  needed  in  this  operation  should  be 
generated  from  marble ; the  same  gas  is  largely  produced  in  establishments  where 
saccharine  substances  are  undergoing  fermentation,  and  is  obtained  as  a waste  product  in 
many  chemical  operations.  In  some  manufactories  the  products  of  combustion  of  the 
fuel  used  for  heating  steam-boilers  are  deprived  of  their  impurities  by  washing,  and  sub- 
sequently utilized  for  saturating,  at  least  in  part,  the  sodium  carbonate  with  carbon  dioxide. 
Large  quantities  of  this  salt  are  manufactured  in  the  United  States,  and  its  importation 
has  decreased  from  nearly  7,000,000  pounds  in  1875  to  about  2,000,000  pounds  annually. 

Sodium  bicarbonate  as  obtained  by  the  above  processes  often  contains  sodium  carbonate, 
and  sometimes  other  impurities,  from  which  it  should  be  freed  before  it  is  used  for  medici- 
nal purposes.  A suitable  process  is  the  one  given  by  the  U.  S.  P.  1870,  modified  so  as  to 
yield  a product  of  the  purity  required  by  the  present  Pharmacopoeia. 

Purification. — Introduce  4 pounds  of  commercial  sodium  bicarbonate  gradually 
into  a suitable  conical  glass  percolator,  cover  it  with  a piece  of  wet  muslin,  and  pour  6 
pints  of  water  upon  it.  When  the  liquid  has  ceased  to  drop  or  when  the  washings  cease 
to  give  a brown-red  precipitate  with  a solution  of  mercuric  chloride,  remove  the  sodium 
bicarbonate  from  the  percolator,  and  dry  it  on  bibulous  paper  or  upon  porous  tiles  in  a 
cool  place. 

Sodium  bicarbonate  is  far  less  readily  soluble  in  cold  distilled  water  than  the  impurities 
which  are  usually  present,  and  in  percolating  water  slowly  through  it  these  foreign 
compounds,  consisting  mainly  of  sodium  carbonate  and  traces  of  sulphate  and  chloride, 
are  dissolved,  together  with  a portion  of  the  bicarbonate.  The  percolate  may  be  utilized, 


SODII  BICARBONAS. 


1455 


after  boiling  for  a short  time,  as  a solution  of  sodium  carbonate.  In  the  presence  of 
water,  however,  the  salt  slowly  parts  with  a portion  of  its  carbonic  acid,  and  more  rapidly 
on  strong  agitation  and  at  an  elevated  temperature.  While  by  this  process  the  salt  may 
be  obtained  of  pharmacopoeial  purity  as  long  as  it  is  contained  in  the  percolator,  its 
removal  from  the  apparatus  and  its  exposure  during  drying  are  likely  to  occasion  a further 
loss  of  the  acid.  It  is  therefore  better  to  select  a commercial  salt  wThich  is  otherwise 
pure,  and  keep  it  in  thin  layers  in  an  atmosphere  of  carbon  dioxide  until  it  answers  to  the 
rigid  requirements  of  the  Pharmacopoeia. 

Properties. — Sodium  bicarbonate  is  a white  inodorous  powTder,  has  a mildly  saline 
not  unpleasant  and  scarcely  alkaline  taste,  and  is  of  a slight  alkaline  reaction.  Perma- 
nent in  dry,  but  slowly  decomposed  in  moist,  air.  It  is  insoluble  in  alcohol  and  ether,  and 
requires  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  11.3  parts  ( U $.),  12  parts  (jP.  G.),  of  water.  According 
to  Poggiale,  100  parts  of  water  dissolve  at  10°  C.  (50°  F.)  8.88,  at  20°  C.  (68°  F.) 
9.84,  and  at  60°  C.  (140°  F.)  13.68,  parts  of  sodium  bicarbonate.  Above  that  tempera- 
ture the  solution  loses  carbon  dioxide,  and  at  a boiling  heat  the  salt  is  entirely  converted 
into  normal  carbonate.  When  heated,  the  salt  is  decomposed  into  normal  carbonate, 
water,  and  carbon  dioxide,  and  finally,  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.),  loses  about  36.3  per  cent,  of 
its  weight.  At  a bright  red  heat  it  melts.  To  a non-luminous  flame  it  imparts  an 
intensely  yellow  color.  When  freshly  prepared  with  cold,  distilled  water,  without  shaking, 
the  solution  gives  a very  faint  alkaline  reaction  with  litmus-paper.  The  alkalinity 
increases  by  standing,  agitation,  or  increase  of  temperature.  Sodium  bicarbonate  is  also 
soluble  in  glycerin  without  change,  but  in  the  presence  of  borax  carbon  dioxide  is  given 
off,  and  sodium  carbonate  remains  behind ; a mixture  of  sodium  bicarbonate  and  borate 
is  not  decomposed  by  cold  water.  The  salt  imparts  to  a non-luminous  flame  an  intense 
yellow  color,  which  on  being  examined  through  a blue  glass  does  not,  or  only  tran- 
siently, appear  red.  It  dissolves  with  brisk  effervescence  in  diluted  acids,  forming  solutions 
in  which  platinum  chloride  causes  no  precipitate.  If  the  salt  is  treated  with  a small 
quantity  of  water,  insufficient  for  solution,  the  liquid  may  react  in  the  cold  with  a solu- 
tion of  magnesium  sulphate,  producing  a white  precipitate,  and  cause  with  a solution  of 
corrosive  sublimate  a dark  brown-red  precipitate,  both  reactions  being  due  to  sodium  car- 
bonate, which  may  be  present  in  small  amount. 

Composition. — The  formula  of  sodium  bicarbonate  given  above  represents  36.90 
per  cent.  Na20,  52..38  per  cent.  C02,  and  10.72  per  cent.  H20. 

Tests. — “ If  1 Gm.  of  the  salt  be  dissolved  in  19  Cc.  of  water,  it  should  yield  a per- 
fectly clear  and  colorless  solution,  leaving  no  residue.  If  5 Cc.  of  the  aqueous  solution 
(1  in  20)  be  slightly  supersaturated  with  hydrochloric  acid,  the  liquid  should  not  be 
colored  red  by  a drop  of  ferric  chloride  test-solution  (absence  of  sulphocyanate).  If  1 
Gm.  of  the  salt  be  dissolved  in  3 Cc.  of  acetic  acid,  it  should  yield  no  precipitate  within 
an  hour  after  being  mixed  with  0.5  Cc.  of  sodium  cobaltic  nitrite  test-solution  (limit  of 
potassium).  If  0.6  Gm.  of  the  salt  be  dissolved,  without  agitation,  in  10  Cc.  of  cold  water, 
and  0.1  Cc.  of  normal  sulphuric  acid  added,  no  red  color  should  appear  upon  the  addition 
of  2 drops  of  phenolphtalein  test-solution  (limit  of  normal  carbonate).  If  5 Cc.  of  the 
aqueous  solution  (1  in  20)  be  slightly  supersaturated  with  hydrochloric  acid,  the  solution 
should  not  be  rendered  turbid  by  the  addition  of  an  equal  volume  of  hydrogen  sulphide 
test-solution,  either  at  once  (absence  of  arsenic,  etc.),  or  after  the  addition  of  ammonia- 
water  in  slight  excess  (absence  of  iron,  aluminum,  etc.).  5 Cc.  of  the  aqueous  solu- 
tion, acidulated  with  acetic  acid,  should  not  be  rendered  turbid  by  0.5  Cc.  of  ammonium 
oxalate  test-solution  (absence  of  calcium).  If  1.2  Gm.  of  sodium  bicarbonate  be  dis- 
solved in  10  Cc.  of  diluted  nitric  acid,  then  0.5  Cc.  of  decinormal  silver  nitrate  solution 
added,  and  the  precipitate,  if  any,  removed  by  filtration,  the  clear  filtrate  should  remain 
unaffected  by  the  addition  of  more  silver  nitrate  solution  (limit  of  chloride).  If  2.5  Gm. 
of  the  salt  be  dissolved  in  11  Cc.  of  diluted  hydrochloric  acid,  then  0.1  Cc.  of  nitric  acid 
and  0.1  Cc.  of  barium  chloride  test-solution  added,  and  the  precipitate,  if  any,  removed 
by  filtration,  the  clear  filtrate  should  remain  unaffected  by  the  further  addition  of  barium 
chloride  test-solution  (limit  of  sulphate,  sulphite,  and  thiosulphate).  If  sodium  bicarbo- 
nate be  heated  in  a test-tube,  no  ammoniacal  vapor  should  be  emitted.  To  neutralize 
0.85  Gm.  of  sodium  bicarbonate  should  require  not  less  than  10  Cc.  of  normal  sul- 
phuric acid  (corresponding  to  at  least  98.6  per  cent,  of  the  pure  salt),  methyl-orange 
being  used  as  indicator.” — U.  S. 

Action  and  Uses. — Sodium  bicarbonate  is  much  less  apt  than  the  carbonate  of  the 
same  base  or  than  potassium  carbonate  to  derange  the  stomach,  because,  it  may  be,  that 
it  belongs  to  the  natural  constituents  of  the  body,  and  is  not  so  promptly  eliminated 


1456 


SODII  BICARBONAS. 


with  the  urine.  Although,  when  taken  moderately  and  for  a short  time,  no  ill  effects  are 
produced,  and  although  in  many  cases  it  is  habitually  used  without  sensible  injury,  it 
nevertheless  tends  to  augment  the  acid  secretions  of  the  stomach  and  to  perpetuate  the 
evil  it  was  designed  to  cure.  It  probably  tends  to  diminish  the  richness  ( i . e.  the  corpus- 
cular elements)  of  the  blood,  and  hence  to  impair  nutrition. 

The  form  of  dyspepsia  in  which  sodium  bicarbonate  is  peculiarly  useful  is  that  attended 
with  acidity  of  the  primae  vise,  and  of  which  the  chief  symptoms  are  sour  eructation 
and  vomiting,  heartburn,  flatulence,  and  acid  liquid  stools.  In  many  cases  the  disorder 
is  exclusively  gastric,  as  in  acid  dyspepsia.  In  not  a few  hypochondriac  symptoms  are 
superadded.  But  in  all  of  them  sodium  bicarbonate  can  do  no  more  than  palliate  the 
special  symptoms  due  to  an  acid  fermentation  of  ingesta : a radical  curative  treatment 
must  be  attempted  by  other  means,  of  which  tonic  medicines  and  regimen  are  the  most 
influential.  The  palliative  symptomatic  treatment  referred  to  is  of  essential  service  in 
the  case  of  children,  in  whom  interference  with  primary  digestion  leads  to  grave  and 
even  fatal  disorders.  This  is  especially  the  case  when  their  sole  aliment  consists  of 
cow’s  milk,  and  the  mischief  can  often  be  mitigated  by  adding  a small  portion  of  the 
bicarbonate  to  each  portion  of  their  food.  It  is  essential  in  all  cases  of  acid  gastric  dys- 
pepsia that  the  bicarbonate  should  be  taken  after,  and  not  before,  meals. 

In  lithiasis  a tendency  to  the  formation  of  acid  sand  and  gravel  may  be  obviated  by  the 
use  of  this  sodium  salt  after  every  meal.  But  it  must  not  be  overlooked  that,  according 
to  competent  testimony,  the  potassium  salt  is  even  more  efficacious ; and  the  plausible 
reason  is  assigned  for  the  alleged  fact  that  the  latter  passes  off  more  readily  than  the 
former  by  the  urine,  and  therefore  tends  more  to  maintain  this  fluid  in  a normal  if  not  in 
an  alkaline  state.  There  is  some  reason  to  believe  that  sodium  bicarbonate  is  capable  of 
producing  the  solution  of  urinary  concretions  already  formed.  It  is  reported  to  be 
singularly  efficient  in  suppression  of  urine  from  renal  disease,  and  even  in  that  form  of 
Bright’s  disease  of  the  kidney  in  which  the  cause  of  the  obstruction  of  the  renal  tubules 
with  casts  is  proved  by  their  abundance  in  the  urinary  sediment. 

In  saccharine  diabetes  occurring  in  persons  of  an  obese  habit  there  is  little  doubt  that 
the  prolonged  use  of  the  salt  under  consideration  is  sometimes  of  marked  benefit.  It  is 
less  so  when  the  patients  are  thin  and  of  a nervous  constitution.  Such  has  been  the  result 
of  observations  at  Vichy,  Carlsbad,  and  other  alkaline  mineral  springs  renowned  for  their 
virtues  in  this  affection.  Intravenous  injection  of  the  salt  has  often  been  used  to  relieve 
diabetic  coma  ( Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  June,  1890,  p.  623).  The  mineral  waters 
just  mentioned  are  celebrated  for  their  utility  in  gout.  They  are  especially  so  in  the 
simple  and  regular  forms  of  the  disease  occurring  in  persons  of  good  constitution  and 
not  yet  exhausted  by  repeated  attacks  or  by  the  complications  to  which  the  gouty  become 
subject.  In  the  latter  case  the  system  is  already  impaired  and  unable  to  sustain  the 
debilitating  influence  of  an  alkaline  treatment.  Under  such  circumstances  a free  use  of 
alkaline  water  is  apt  to  occasion  a transference  of  the  gout  to  internal  organs,  and  some- 
times it  has  led  to  a fatal  termination  of  the  disease.  What  has  been  said  of  gout 
applies  in  many  respects  to  biliary  calculi , for  which  alkaline  mineral  waters  have  always 
been  used.  According  to  some,  the  potash  salt  is  preferable  to  the  soda  salt,  but  this 
notion  is  more  than  doubtful. 

In  acute  articular  rheumatism , and  notably  in  those  cases  of  it  in  which  many  joints 
are  involved,  and  in  which  there  are  high  fever,  acid  sweats,  and  loaded  urine,  sodium 
bicarbonate  is  of  inestimable  benefit,  provided  that  it  be  given  so  as  to  maintain  a neutral 
condition  of  the  urine.  Its  efficacy  is  increased  when  the  affected  joints  are  swathed  in 
compresses  saturated  with  a solution  of  the  salt.  Some  physicians  limit  the  use  of  the 
alkaline  treatment  of  rheumatism  to  cases  in  which  cardiac  complications  exist.  But  if 
the  alkaline  treatment  tends  to  save  the  heart,  as  we  believe,  it  should  be  the  best  from 
the  beginning,  and  whether  anaesthetics  and  sedatives  are  used  or  not.  In  the  treatment 
of  recent  burns  a like  solution  has  been  applied  with  the  effect  of  immediately  relieving 
the  pain  and  producing  a rapid  cure.  This  method  was  first  proposed  by  Peppercorne 
(1844),  and  again  recommended  in  1882  ( Practitioner , xxviii.  15.).  Excellent  reports 
of  its  virtues  have  been  made  by  Troiski  {Med.  News , 1881,  p.  679)  and  Roller  {Anier. 
Jour.  Phar .,  June,  1880,  p.  319).  The  part  should  be  kept  constantly  wet  with  the  solu- 
tion. In  the  case  of  a burn  of  the  second  degree  involving  two-thirds  of  the  face  and 
both  ears,  and  extending  over  the  whole  back  of  the  neck  down  to  between  the  shoulders, 
an  excellent  result  was  obtained  (Rogers).  A similar  solution,  with  or  without  borax,  is 
said  to  allay  pruritus  due  to  an  uric-acid  diathesis.  In  1881,  Armangue  and  Gine  treated 
acute  tonsillitis  by  the  direct  application  of  powdered  sodium  bicarbonate  in  the  forming 


SO  DU  BISULPHIS. 


1457 


stage  of  the  disease,  and  claimed  to  have  prevented  its  development  in  most  instances 
(. Practitioner , xxviii.  448).  The  same  treatment  was  subsequently  used  in  this  country 
by  Stuver  (Med.  News , xli.  567),  Skinner  (ibid.,  xlii.  156),  and  Vinke  (ibid.,  xliii.  216). 
It  has  not  yet  been  sufficiently  tested,  but  it  has  at  least  the  advantage  of  being  harm- 
less. A somewhat  similar  application  has  been  made  in  contagious  ophthalmia  attended 
from  the  first  with  chemosis  and  granulations,  as  well  as  in  chronic  cases  of  granular 
conjunctivitis  (Times  and  Gaz.,  Oct.  1881,  p.  516).  A 1 per  cent,  solution  of  this  salt 
has  been  used  with  alleged,  but  not  demonstrated,  success  in  acute  gonorrhoea  (Bull,  de 
Therap .,  cxi.  515).  A saturated  solution  has  been  found  an  efficient  cure  in  poisoning 
by  Rhus  toxicodendron.  A solution  of  equal  parts  of  this  salt  and  borax  has  been  used 
to  soften  diphtheritic  membranes. 

Sodium  bicarbonate  may  be  prescribed  in  doses  of  6m.  0.30-2  (gr.  v-xxx)  and  upward. 
The  largest  doses  are  required  in  acute  rheumatism.  When  the  doses  must  be  large  the 
medicine  is  most  conveniently  administered  in  carbonated  water. 


SODH  BISULPHIS,  U.  Sodium  Bisulphite. 

Natrium  bisulfurosum , Bisulphis  sodicus. — Bisulphite  de  soude , Fr. ; Natriumbisuljit , 
Doppeltscliwefligsaures  Natron , G. 

Formula  NaHS03.  Molecular  weight  103.86. 

Preparation. — This  salt  is  employed  in  the  arts  for  bleaching,  and  was  called  leuco- 
gene  by  Chaudet,  who  recommended  it  for  this  purpose.  It  is  also  used  as  antichlor  for 
neutralizing  the  excess  of  chlorine  after  bleaching  fabrics  or  paper-pulp,  and  has  been 
recommended  for  the  preservation  of  fermentable  liquids  and  articles  of  food.  It  is  pre- 
pared by  saturating  a solution  of  sodium  carbonate  with  sulphur  dioxide  and  crystal- 
lizing in  a cool  place.  Warm  concentrated  solutions  treated  in  this  manner  usually 
separate  on  cooling  sodium  pyrosulphite,  Na2S205. 

Properties. — Sodium  bisulphite  is  in  “ opaque,  prismatic  crystals  or  a crystalline  or 
granular  powder,  slowly  oxidized  and  losing  sulphur  dioxide  on  exposure  to  air,  having 
a faint  sulphurous  odor,  a disagreeable  sulphurous  taste,  and  an  acid  reaction  ; soluble 
in  4 parts  of  water  and  in  72  parts  of  alcohol  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  in  2 parts  of  boiling 
water,  and  in  49  parts  of  boiling  alcohol.  When  strongly  heated  the  salt  decrepitates, 
and  is  converted  into  sulphur  and  sodium  sulphate.  A small  fragment  of  the  salt  imparts 
to  a non-luminous  flame  an  intense  yellow  color,  not  appearing  more  than  transiently  red 
when  observed  through  a blue  glass.  On  adding  hydrochloric  acid  to  an  aqueous  solu- 
tion of  the  salt,  sulphur  dioxide  is  evolved.” — U.  S.  The  salt  being  easily  affected  by 
exposure,  it  is  difficult  to  keep  it  unaltered,  even  in  stoppered  bottles,  and  to  preserve  for 
it  the  purity  required  by  the  tests  given  below.  Sodium  pyrosulphite  resembles  the 
pharmacopoeial  salt  in  its  properties. 

Tests. — “If  1.2  6m.  of  sodium  bisulphite  be  dissolved  in  10  Cc.  of  diluted  nitric 
acid  and  the  solution  heated  sufficiently  to  expel  gases,  then  0.5  Cc.  of  decinormal  silver 
nitrate  solution  added,  and  the  precipitate,  if  any,  removed  by  filtration,  the  clear  filtrate 
should  remain  unaffected  by  the  addition  of  more  silver  nitrate  solution  (limit  of  chlo- 
rine). If  2.5  Gm.  of  sodium  bisulphite  be  dissolved  in  11  Cc.  of  diluted  hydrochloric 
acid,  with  the  aid  of  sufficient  heat  to  expel  the  sulphur  dioxide,  the  solution  should  not 
be  turbid  (absence  of  thiosulphate).  After  adding  to  it  0.15  Cc.  of  barium  chloride 
test-solution,  and  removing  the  precipitate,  if  any,  by  filtration,  a portion  of  the  clear 
filtrate  should  remain  unaffected  by  the  addition  of  more  barium  chloride  test-solution 
(limit  of  sulphate).  If  to  5 Cc.  of  the  preceding  filtrate  an  equal  volume  of  hydrogen 
sulphide  test-solution  be  added,  no  turbidity  or  coloration  should  occur  (absence  of 
arsenic,  etc.).  If  0.26  Gm.  of  sodium  bisulphite  be  dissolved  in  20  Cc.  of  water 
recently  boiled  to  expel  air,  and  a little  starch  test-solution  be  added,  at  least  45  Cc. 
of  decinormal  iodine  solution  should  be  required  to  produce  a permanent  blue  tint 
after  agitation  (corresponding  to  at  least  90  per  cent,  of  pure  sodium  bisulphite).” — 
U.  S. 

Uses. — The  action  and  uses  of  the  sodium  bisulphite  are  essentially  the  same  as  those 
of  the  sulphite  ; it  is,  however,  supposed  to  derive  greater  efficiency  from  the  larger 
proportions  of  sulphurous  acid  in  its  composition.  I)r.  Fenn  ascribes  to  it  the  power 
of  aborting  coryza  and  tonsillitis  ( Univ , Med.  Mag.,  ii.  599).  Dose , Gm.  0.60-1  (gr.  x- 

xxx). 


92 


1458 


SOD  II  BOB  AS. 


SODII  BORAS,  77.  S. — Sodium  Borate. 

Borax , Br.,  P.  G.  ; Natrium  biboricum  ( pyroboricum ),  Boras  sodicus. — Sodium  tetra- 
or  pyroborate,  E.  ; Borax , E.,  Fr.,  G. ; Borate  de  soude , Bauracon , Sel  de  Perse , Fr. ; 
Natrium  pyroborat , G. 


Formula  Na2B4O7.10II2O.  Molecular  weight  380.92. 

Origin  and  Preparation. — It  is  uncertain  whether  borax  was  known  to  and  used 
by  the  ancients,  and  even  in  the  Middle  Ages  it  was  frequently  confounded  with  other 
salts.  The  observations  of  Homberg  (see  page  34),  GeofFroy  (1732),  and  others  did  not 
lead  to  correct  views  regarding  the  chemical  nature  of  borax  until  Baron  (1747)  showed 
that  the  “ sedative  salt  ” exists  in  it  combined  with  soda.  Borax  is  found  native  as  tincal 
in  Persia,  Thibet,  and  other  localities,  as  a saline  incrustation  on  the  shores  of  certain 
lakes,  and  as  a crystalline  deposit  at  the  bottom  of  the  borax  lake  in  California.  The 
incrustation  and  the  deposit  are  continually  renewed  by  crystallization  from  the  lake 
waters  as  fast  as  the  borax  is  removed.  Tincal  requires  to  be  washed  with  a solution  of 
caustic  soda  for  effecting  the  removal  of  fatty  matter  with  which  the  crystals  are  covered, 
and  on  being  afterward  recrystallized  from  water  yields  borax.  Borax  is  also  prepared 
from  various  native  borates  which  are  found  in  Nevada,  in  certain  parts  of  South  Amer- 
ica, Europe,  and  Asia,  and  which  are  known  as  the  minerals  boracite , borosodocalcite , 
cryptomorphite,  etc.  These  consist  of  boric  acid  combined  in  varying  proportions  with 
sodium,  calcium,  and  magnesium,  and  mixed  with  sulphates,  chlorides,  and  silica,  and 
yield  borax  on  being  treated  with  sodium  carbonate,  and  after  recrystallization  from 
water. 

Most  of  the  borax  is  at  present  prepared  from  commercial  crude  boric  acid,  which  is 
either  boiled  with  a solution  of  soda,  or,  more  generally,  is  fused  together  with  calcined 
sodium  carbonate ; the  impure  Italian  boric  acid  yields  besides  carbon  dioxide  also 
ammonia,  which  is  also  utilized.  The  fused  mass  is  then  dissolved  in  water,  and  this  solu- 
tion separated  from  the  ferric  hydroxide  and  other  impurities  suspended  in  the  liquor, 
and  evaporated  sufficiently,  when  it  is  permitted  to  cool  slowly,  so  that  large  crystals  are 
obtained,  from  which  the  mother-liquor  is  rapidly  withdrawn. 

Properties. — Borax  forms  large,  colorless,  monoclinic  prisms,  which  are  transparent, 
inodorous,  have  a mild  sweetish,  cooling,  and  afterward  alkaline  taste,  and  in  dry  air 
effloresce  superficially  and  become  opaque.  When  heated  it  melts  in  its  water  of  crys- 
tallization, and  is  converted  into  a light  white  spongy  mass,  which  at  a red  heat  fuses, 
and  on  cooling  forms  a transparent  glass.  Borax  has  the  specific 
Fig.  286.  gravity  1.72,  has  a weak  alkaline  reaction,  is  insoluble  in  alcohol, 

but  dissolves  at  80°  C.  (176°  F.)  in  1 part  of  glycerin  and  at 
15°  C.  (59°  F.)  in  16  parts  of  water.  The  glycerin  solution 
imparts  a green  color  to  flame  (Senier  and  Lowe,  1878).  Accord- 
ing to  Poggiale,  100  parts  of  water  dissolve  at  10°  C.  (50°  F.) 
4.65  parts,  at  20°  C.  (68°  F.)  7.88  parts,  at  30°  C.  (84°  F.)  11.90 
parts,  at  40°  C.  (104°  F.)  17.90  parts,  and  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.) 
201.43  parts,  of  crystallized  borax.  If  a saturated  solution  of 
borax  is  prepared  at  an  elevated  temperature  and  kept  at  a tem- 
perature exceeding  56°  C.  (133°  F.),  sodium  borate  containing 
5H20  will  crystallize  in  octahedral  crystals  which  are  harder  than 
borax.  A cold  solution  of  borax  absorbs  considerable  quantities 
of  carbon  dioxide  and  hydrogen  sulphide,  both  gases  being  again 
Crystal  of  Borax.  expelled  on  heating  and  evaporating  the  liquid.  The  aqueous 
solution  (1  in  20)  colors  red  litmus-paper  blue,  and  yellow 
turmeric-paper  reddish-brown.  After  being  acidulated  with  hydrochloric  acid  the  solu- 
tion colors  blue  litmus-paper  red  ; yellow  turmeric-paper  remains  unchanged  at  first,  but 
on  drying  becomes  brownish-red,  and  this  color  is  temporarily  changed  to  a bluish-black 
by  moistening  with  ammonia-water.  If  a slight  excess  of  sulphuric  acid  be  added  to  a 
hot,  saturated  aqueous  solution  of  the  salt,  shining,  scaly  crystals  of  boric  acid  will 
separate  on  cooling,  which  impart  a green  color  to  the  flame  of  alcohol.  Borax  held  in 
a non-luminous  flame  imparts  to  it  an  intense  yellow  color. 

Composition. — The  water  of  crystallization  amounts  to  47.12  per  cent.,  Na20  to 
16.23,  and  B203  to  36.65  per  cent.  The  crystallized  and  the  anhydrous  salt,  Na2B407,  are 
compounds  of  tetra-  or  pyroboric  acid  (see  p.  34). 

Tests. — “ With  19  Cc.  of  water  1 Gm.  of  the  salt  should  yield  a perfectly  clear  and 


SODII  BORAS. 


1459 


colorless  solution,  leaving  no  residue.  The  aqueous  solution  (1  in  20)  should  not  effer- 
vesce with  acids  (absence  of  carbonate).  It  should  not  be  rendered  turbid  by  ammonium 
sulphide  test-solution  (absence  of  iron,  aluminum,  etc.),  nor,  after  being  acidulated  with 
hydrochloric  acid,  by  an  equal  volume  of  hydrogen  sulphide  test-solution  (absence  of 
arsenic,  lead,  etc.).  When  acidulated  with  acetic  acid,  the  solution  should  not  be  rendered 
turbid  by  ammonium  oxalate  test-solution  (absence  of  calcium).  The  aqueous  solution 
(1  in  20)  should  not  be  rendered  turbid  by  magnesia  mixture  (absence  of  phosphate).  If 
0.48  Gm.  of  the  salt  be  dissolved  in  15  Cc.  of  water,  then  1 Cc.  of  diluted  nitric  acid  and 
0.2  Cc.  of  decinormal  silver  nitrate  solution  added,  and  the  precipitate,  if  any,  be  removed 
by  filtration,  the  clear  filtrate  should  remain  unaffected  by  the  addition  of  more  silver 
nitrate  solution  (limit  of  chloride).  If  2.5  Gm.  of  the  salt  be  dissolved  in  50  Cc.  of  water, 
then  10  Cc.  of  diluted  hydrochloric  acid  and  0.1  Cc.  of  barium  chloride  test-solution  added, 
and  the  precipitate,  if  any,  be  removed  by  filtration,  the  clear  filtrate  should  remain  unaf- 
fected by  the  addition  of  more  barium  chloride  test-solution  (limit  of  sulphate).  If  1 
Gm.  of  the  salt  be  dissolved  in  20  Cc.  of  diluted  sulphuric  acid,  by  the  aid  of  heat,  and 
3 drops  of  indigo  test-solution  be  added,  the  blue  color  should  not  be  discharged  (absence 
of  nitrate).” — U.  S.  Traces  of  chloride  are  always,  and  of  sulphate  occasionally,  present 
in  good  commercial  borax.  “191  grains  of  borax  dissolved  in  10  fluidounces  of  distilled 
water  require  for  saturation  1000  grain-measures  of  the  volumetric  solution  of  oxalic 
acid.” — Br. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  substance  is  supposed  to  be  described  by  Pliny  under  the 
name  of  chrysocolla ; by  the  Arabians  it  was  called  tankar  (Sontheimer).  The  former 
speaks  of  its  drying  and  healing  action  upon  wounds  when  applied  as  a powder — of  its 
use  in  sore  throat,  and  in  collyria  for  removing  opacities  of  the  cornea,  and  in  plasters 
for  effacing  scars.  The  latter  allude  to  its  cleansing  and  astringent  virtues,  to  its  appli- 
cation in  caries  of  the  teeth,  etc.,  and  to  its  use  by  goldsmiths  as  a flux  for  gold.  A 
solution  of  borax  Gm.  2 to  Gm.  32  (gr.  xxx  to  f^j)  is  quite  efficient  in  diminishing  and 
even  in  removing  freckles,  chloasma,  and  those  unsightly  eruptions  by  which  some  women 
are  annoyed  at  the  menstrual  periods.  A drachm  of  borax  in  half  an  ounce  of  cold 
cream  forms  an  excellent  ointment  for  chilblains.  As  a lotion  for  ringworm  of  the  scalp 
a solution  has  been  recommended  of  1 drachm  of  borax  in  2 ounces  of  distilled  vinegar. 
It  has  been  thought  useful  in  lotion  or  in  ointment  for  alopecia.  Borax  has  also  been 
applied  with  good  effect  in  pityriasis  versicolor  and  for  removing  opacities  of  the  cornea. 
It  is  used  to  heal  ill-conditioned  idcers , and  especially  those  of  the  mouth  occurring  in 
ulcerative  stomatitis , and  also  to  restore  firmness  to  spongy  gums.  In  the  last  cases  par- 
ticularly it  should  be  associated  with  honey  and  myrrh.  Borax  is  less  efficient  than 
potassium  chlorate,  and  like  it  acts  only  as  a local  stimulant.  It  is  of  constant  use  for 
the  cure  of  aphthse  of  the  mouth  and  fauces  occurring  in  nursing  children.  In  the 
first-named  affections  it  should  be  finely  powdered  with  white  sugar  and  applied  directly 
to  the  affected  part.  It  is  equally  efficacious  in  thrush , which  proceeds  from  the  acid 
fermentation  of  the  milk  and  occurs  in  the  buccal  cavity,  about  the  anus,  etc.  Mixtures 
of  borax  with  honey  or  with  glycerin  will  answer  the  same  purpose,  but  perhaps  less 
efficiently.  These,  or  the  powder,  or  a simple  -watery  solution,  may  be  applied  to  aph- 
thous sores  of  the  vulva  and  vagina , to  fissures  of  the  nipples , and  to  similar  lesions.  It 
is  sometimes  advantageous  to  associate  with  the  borax  Peruvian  balsam,  benzoin,  or 
some  analogous  agent  to  modify  or  strengthen  its  action.  They  may  be  incorporated  in  a 
mixture  made  with  yelk  of  egg,  oil  of  almonds,  etc.  A solution  of  borax  is  one  of  the 
best  topical  applications  in  prurigo  pudendi,  and  one  of  the  most  efficient  vaginal  injec- 
tions for  leucorrhoea , especially  when  it  is  due  to  superficial  ulcers  of  the  cervix.  It 
may  also  be  used  to  relieve  the  symptoms  of  oxyuris. 

In  subacute  laryngitis , especially  as  it  occurs  in  children,  a mixture  of  powdered  borax 
with  honey  or  syrup  has  been  found  serviceable  by  its  stimulating  action  upon  the  adja- 
\ cent  pharyngeal  mucous  membrane.  A like  effect  has  been  observed  in  hoarseness  and  in 
aphonia  due  to  laryngeal  congestion  merely  or  to  exhaustion  of  the  larynx  by  an  exces- 
i sive  use  of  the  voice.  The  best  mode  of  using  it  is  to  allow  a piece  of  borax  of  the 
size  of  a pea  gradually  to  dissolve  in  the  mouth.  The  inhalation  of  powdered  borax  has 
been  used  in  j)hthisis  on  theoretical  grounds,  and  with  the  natural  result. 

Very  few  writers  upon  therapeutics  admit  that  borax  stimulates  the  uterine  system, 
promoting  menstruation  and  labor  and  checking  haemorrhage.  The  difficulty  of  determin- 
ing the  precise  value  of  an  emmenagogue  medicine  is  notorious,  and  in  this  case,  at  least 
as  much  as  in  others,  large  assertion  is  mixed  with  little  proof.  The  power  attributed  to 
borax  of  exciting  the  gravid  uterus  to  contraction  docs  not  appear  to  us  susceptible  of 


1460 


SOD II  BROMIDUM. 


well-grounded  doubt,  and,  while  believing  that  ic  is  efficacious  in  uterine  haemorrhage,  we 
should  find  a demonstration  of  its  value  difficult.  In  India  borax  is  said  to  be  used  to 
reduce  enlargements  of  the  spleen  (Med.  Record , xxxi.  549). 

Dr.  Gowers  ( Times  and  Gaz .,  April,  1880,  p.  44V)  states  that  in  some  inveterate  cases 
of  epilepsy , in  which  the  bromides  had  no  effect,  he  tried  borax  without  advantage  some- 
times, but  in  a certain  number  of  instances  its  value  was  marked.  The  doses  were  10  or 
15  grains  twice  or  three  times  a day.  Sometimes  it  occasioned  gastro-intestinal  disturb- 
ance, and  rarely  a form  of  dysenteric  diarrhoea.  According  to  Mairet,  it  is  most  useful 
in  symptomatic  epilepsy.  A tendency,  which  it  showed,  to  cause  a scaly  eruption  has 
been  noticed.  Dr.  Folsom  noted  that  it  sometimes  produced  itching  of  the  skin  and 
exfoliation  of  the  cuticle,  and  Dr.  Gowers  observed  a similar  effect  ( Boston  Med.  and 
Surg.  Jour .,  Feb.  1886,  pp.  157,  145)  ; while  Dr.  Munson  (Med.  News , lv.  154)  found 
the  nutrition  of  the  hair  impaired.  (Compare  Lancet , May,  1890,  p.  1061.) 

The  utility  of  borax  in  cases  of  uric-acid,  gravel  is  very  great.  Entering  the  urine 
nearly  unchanged,  a great  part  of  the  borax  taken  presents  itself  to  the  uric  acid,  which 
decomposes  it,  forming  soluble  sodium  urate,  which,  with  the  freed  boric  acid,  is  dis- 
charged. Borax  may  be  given  internally  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.30-2  (gr.  v— xxx),  in 
watery  solution  largely  diluted. 

Ammonium  Borate  has  been  proposed  as  a remedy  for  disorders  of  the  urinary 
secretion  attended  with  an  excess  of  acid  or  of  earthy  phosphates  and  irritability  of  the 
bladder.  It  does  not,  however,  seem  to  have  answered  these  purposes,  since  it  has  com- 
pletely fallen  into  disuse.  Yet  it  would  seem  to  be  nearly  as  well  fitted  for  them  as 
sodium  borate.  The  dose  is  Gm.  0.60-1.30  (gr.  x-xx)  in  an  abundant  watery  solution. 

SODII  BROMIDUM,  U.  S.,  Sodium  Bromide. 

Natrium  bromatum , P.  G.  ; Bromuretum  sodicum. — Bromure  de  sodium , Fr.  ; Bromna- 
trium , G. 

Formula  NaBr.  Molecular  weight  102.76. 

Preparation. — Sodium  bromide  may  be  prepared  in  a manner  similar  to  potas- 
sium bromide  (see  page  1282).  A solution  of  ferrous  bromide,  boiled  with  a solution  of 
sodium  carbonate,  yields  a precipitate,  the  filtrate  from  which  is  evaporated  and  crystallized. 

Properties. — At  a temperature  of  about  20°  C.  (68°  F.)  and  below,  colorless,  trans- 
parent, oblique-rhombic  prisms  are  obtained  having  the  composition  NaBr.2H20  (mol. 
weight  138.68),  which  when  heated  melt  and  give  off  the  water  of  crystallization.  But 
when  the  solution  is  kept  at  a temperature  above  30°  C.  (86°  F.),  anhydrous  cubes  of 
sodium  bromide  are  obtained,  which  have  a saline,  somewhat  alkaline,  and  scarcely  bitter- 
ish taste,  and  a neutral  or  faint  alkaline  reaction.  The  salt  is  usually  met  with  in  the 
form  of  a white  crystalline,  inodorous  powder  which  is  permanent  in  dry  air,  and  is  stated 
to  be  soluble  in  0.5  part  of  boiling  water,  in  11  parts  of  boiling  alcohol  ( U.  S.),  and  at 
15°  C.  (59°  F.)  in  1.2  (U.  S.,  P.  G.)  parts  of  water  and  in  13  (U.  Si)  or  5 (P.  G.)  parts 
of  alcohol.  According  to  Kremers  (1856),  1 part  of  the  anhydrous  salt  is  soluble  at  0° 
C.  (32°  F.)  in  1.29,  at  20°  C.  (68°  F.)  in  1.13,  and  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  in  0.87,  parts 
of  water,  and  the  saturated  solution  boils  at  121°  C.  (250°  F.).  According  to  Hager, 
the  anhydrous  salt  is  soluble  in  10  parts  of  90  per  cent,  alcohol  and  in  3 parts  of  60  per 
cent,  alcohol,  while  the  hydrated  salt  requires  7 parts  of  the  former  and  2.25  parts  of  the 
latter  for  solution.  The  hydrated  salt  melts  in  its  water  of  crystallization,  but  the  anhy- 
drous salt  requires  a red  heat  for  fusion,  and  then  volatilizes  slowly  without  decomposi- 
tion. The  salt  imparts  to  a non-luminous  flame  an  intense  yellow  color,  which,  when 
observed  through  a blue  glass,  should  not  appear  permanently  red  (P.  G.). 

Tests. — The  pharmacopoeias  give  nearly  identical  tests  for  alkalinity,  bromate,  iodide, 
sulphate,  and  chloride,  as  follows : “ The  aqueous  solution  (1  in  20)  should  be  clear  and 
colorless,  and  should  not  be  rendered  turbid  by  sodium  bitartrate  test-solution,  nor  by 
sodium-cobaltic  nitrite  test-solution  (limit  of  potassium),  nor  by  ammonium  oxalate  test- 
solution  (calcium),  nor  by  barium  chloride  test-solution  (sulphate).  If  the  aqueous 
solution  be  slightly  acidulated  with  hydrochloric  acid,  it  should  not  be  rendered  turbid 
by  the  addition  of  an  equal  volume  of  hydrogen  sulphide  test-solution,  either  at  once 
(absence  of  arsenic,  lead,  etc.),  or  after  adding  ammonia-water  in  slight  excess  (absence 
of  iron,  aluminum,  etc.).  If  diluted  sulphuric  acid  be  dropped  upon  some  of  the  pow- 
dered salt,  no  yellow  color  should  appear  at  once  (absence  of  bromate).  If  5 Cc.  of  the 
aqueous  solution  (1  in  20)  be  mixed  with  a few  drops  of  starch  test-solution,  and  then 
0,5  Cc.  of  chlorine-water  added,  no  blue  color  should  appear  (absence  of  iodine).  If  1 


SOD II  BROMIDVM. 


1461 


Gm.  of  the  powdered  salt  be  kept  for  twenty  minutes  at  the  temperature  of  100°  C.  (212° 
F.)  or  slightly  above  it,  it  should  not  lose  more  than  0.03  Gm.  in  weight  (limit  of  moist- 
ure). If  0.3  Gm.  of  the  well-dried  salt  be  dissolved  in  10  Cc.  of  water,  and  2 drops  of 
potassium  chromate  test-solution  be  added,  it  should  not  require  more  than  29.8  Cc  of 
decinormal  silver  nitrate  solution  to  produce  a permanent  red  color  (absence  of  more  than 
2.<1  per  cent,  of  chloride).” — V.  S.  When  heated  to  a bright-red  heat  the  salt  melts 
and,  at  a somewhat  higher  temperature,  slowly  volatilizes  without  decomposition.  To  a 
non-luminous  flame  it  imparts  an  intensely  yellow  color.  Its  aqueous  solution  is  neutral 
to  litmus-paper  or  at  most  very  feebly  alkaline.  If  a few  drops  of  chloroform  are  poured 
into  10  Cc.  of  the  aqueous  solution  (1  in  20),  then  1 Cc.  of  chlorine-water  added,  and 
the  mixture  agitated,  the  liberated  bromine  will  dissolve  in  the  chloroform,  imparting  to 
it  a yellow  or  brownish-yellow  color,  without  a violet  tint.  1 Gm.  of  the  salt,  when  com- 
pletely precipitated  by  silver  nitrate,  yields,  if  perfectly  pure,  1.824  Gm.  of  dry  silver 
bromide ; in  the  presence  of  sodium  chloride  the  precipitate  will  weigh  more. 

The  volumetric  test  of  the  Pharmacopoeia  is  very  similar  to  that  prescribed  for  the 
potassium  salt:  0.3  Gm.  of  pure  sodium  bromide  would  require  29.19  Cc.  of  decinormal 
silver  solution  for  complete  precipitation,  and  hence  each  0.222  Cc.  used  in  excess  of  that 

qTnoayo  n1  1 Per  Ce,nt'  of  chloride*  The  Germ.  Pharm,  by  allowing  the  use  of 

only  ^.3  Cc.  or  decinormal  silver  solution,  requires  sodium  bromide  to  be  99  5 per  cent 
pure.  r 

Action  and  Uses.  Although  various  theoretical  considerations  have  been  re- 
garded as  sufficient  to  prove  sodium  bromide  preferable  as  a medicine  to  potassium 
bromide,  physiological  experiment  and  clinical  observation  agree  in  teaching  that  sodium 
bromide  possesses  in  a less  degree  the  characteristic  sedative  and  hvpnotic  properties 
ot  potassium  bromide.  It  has  been  claimed  to  be  more  eligible  than  the  potassium  salt 
because  it  does  not  excite  an  eruption  of  acne  nor  occasion  hebetude  of  mind  or  body  • 
but  the  latter  symptom  is  the  very  index  of  the  efficiency  of  the  potassium  salt,  at  least 
in  epilepsy  ; and  if  it  fails  to  occur  under  sodium  bromide,  the  occurrence  can  be  taken 
as  a proof  that  the  latter  is  inoperative  in  cases  for  which  the  potassic  bromide  is  appro- 
priate. It  is  given  in  the  same  doses  as  potassium  bromide.  In  point  of  fact,  however 
bronuzation  of  the  nervous  system  is  produced  by  the  sodium  salt  when  taken  in  lar<»e 
doses.  Cutler  has  related  ( Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour .,  March,  1884,  p.  248)  the  case  of 
a man  who  took  about  4 ounces  of  this  compound  in  one  week.  Torpor,  sopor  and 
lethargy  succeeded  one  another;  the  skin  was  dusky  and  cool,  the  pulse  and  breathing 
slow;  the  urine  was  nearly  suppressed,  and  reflex  irritability  abolished.  The  patient  lav 

Ma7S°7?nd  / 6eP  1°/*  NeighTteen  days-  Similar  cases  had  before  been  observed  (Schweig, 
MeM  Record , xl  841).  In  one  of  them  there  were  “incoherency  of  speech  and  action, 
hallucinations  of  sight  and  hearing,  delusions  of  various  sorts,  a general  aspect  of  imbe- 
cility and  an  almost  entire  absence  of  rational  conduct.”  Yet  the  patient  on  recovery 

mentaTdarkPnetrt  y °CCUITenCeS  that  had  taken  Place  during  his  period  of  apparent 

In  regard  to  the  relative  value  of  the  sodic  and  potassic  bromides  in  the  treatment  of 
epilepsy  it  would  appear  that  the  former  is  inferior  to  the  latter,  because  it  exerts  less 
ot  that  sedative  influence  on  the  nervous  system  which  the  mitigation  of  the  disease 
requires.  Dujardin-Beaumetz  and  Yoism  entirely  reject  the  use  of  the  sodium  salt  in 
epilepsy  and  the  weightiest  evidence  is  on  the  same  side  of  the  question.  Nevertheless 
it  should  be  used  when  the  other  salt  disagrees  with  the  patient  or  is  contraindicated  by 

tint  t J'  i ^ 18  d°Ub>  aS  already  Said’  that  ifcs  action  is  less  depressing, 

that  its  taste  is  less  offensive,  that  it  does  not  tend  to  produce  an  acneiform  eruption  and 

that  it  is  not  so  apt  to  render  the  breath  fetid.  Hence  it  is  to  be  preferred  in  all  the 

thin  thS’  eXreP.  epileps^  as  a rale’  in  which  the  bromides  are  indicated,  and  especially 

nervous  ^>rh  hnr/re  °F  dellcate  persons-  Among  these  cases  are  to  be  reckoned 

nervous  irritability,  such  as  is  apt  to  attend  the  menopause ; cases  of  insomnia  from 

excitement  of  mind  or  body  ; delirium  tremens;  nervous  palpitation  from 
t rv^fnCe4  tSG  of  tobacco,  alcohol,  etc.  The  practice  of  using  the  bromides 
sinop  iqqo  ea  Slc  ™essi  y producing  a mild  bromization,  which  became  very  common 

probated  by  those  who  have  had  the  best  opportunity  of  forming  a correct 
imtn  dnspf  aS  mer<dy.a  mode  °,f  narcotlc  intoxication.  It  is  probable  that  frequent 
2ltSTZTe  e Clent  tbanJarSer  and  less  frequent  doses,  and  that  the  use  of  the 
Iwnl!r  f I!®  COmmenced  ^efo,re  to  sea.  The  danger  of  excessive  doses  is 

od  nm  Te  : 1882’  lh ■ F R t00k  «i  inordinate  quantity  of 

sodium  bromide  (11  oz.)  for  the  purpose  referred  to,  and  under  its  influence  became 


1462 


S0LI1  CARBON  AS. 


insane,  jumped  overboard,  and  was  drowned.  As  antidotes  to  the  stupefying  effects  of 
this  salt  strong  coffee,  and  also  caffeine  citrate,  have  been  recommended. 

Sodium  lactate  has  also  been  proposed  as  possessing  hypnotic  qualities  (London  Med. 
Record ',  Dec.  15,  1879),  but  none  were  shown  among  seventeen  patients  of  Kroemer,  even 
after  the  very  large  doses  of  the  salt  had  been  taken.  Others  condemn  it  for  its  tend- 
ency to  disorder  the  stomach  and  produce  diarrhoea. 

SODII  CARBON  AS,  U.  S,,  J Br. — Sodium  Carbonate. 

Sodse  carbonas , Br.  ; Natrium  carbonicum , P.  G.  ; Carbonas  sodicus , Sal  sodse  depura- 
tus. — Pure  carbonate  of  sodium , E. ; Carbonate  de  soude , Fr.  ; Natriumcarbonat , Kohlen- 
saures  Natron , G. 

Formula  Na2CO3.10H2O.  Molecular  weight  285.45. 

Origin  and  Preparation. — Both  sodium  and  potassium  carbonate  were  known  at 
a very  remote  period,  and  by  the  ancients  were  called  nitron  and  nitrum , which  names 
were  afterward  applied  to  other  salts  (see  page  1307).  A distinction  between  the  alkali 
carbonates  was  not  made  until  after  Duhamel’s  observation  (1736)  had  shown  table-salt 
to  be  the  compound  of  an  alkali,  and  until  Marggraf  (1759)  had  proved  this  alkali  to  differ 
from  the  vegetable  alkali  procured  from  the  ashes  of  plants. 

Sodium  carbonate  exists  in  a large  number  of  mineral  waters,  mostly,  however,  as 
bicarbonate.  It  is  contained  in  the  waters  of  certain  lakes  in  India,  Egypt,  Central 
Africa,  Mexico,  and  South  America,  and  is  found  in  the  ashes  of  man}ir  plants  growing 
near  the  seashore,  such  as  Salsola,  Statice,  Salicornia,  Atriplex,  Mesembryanthemum,  and 
others.  These  ashes  are  known  in  commerce  as  barilla , salicor,  etc.,  the  former  contain- 
ing nearly  30  per  cent.,  the  latter  about  14  per  cent.,  of  sodium  carbonate.  Kelp  and 
varec , the  ashes  of  various  marine  algae,  contain  much  less  soda,  and  are  at  present  not 
employed  for  obtaining  this  salt.  Egyptian  trona , a native  sodium  carbonate,  contains 
both  carbonate  and  sesquicarbonate.  In  Hungary  and  some  other  countries  sodium  car- 
bonate effloresces  from  the  earth. 

The  most  important  sources  of  this  salt  are  cryolite  and  sodium  sulphate  and  chloride. 
Cryolite  is  a mineral  found  in  Greenland,  and  consists  of  sodium  and  aluminum  fluoride. 
When  boiled  with  an  excess  of  caustic  lime,  insoluble  calcium  fluoride  and  aluminate  are 
obtained  and  caustic  soda  remains  in  solution  ; and  when  a mixture  of  cryolite  and  chalk 
is  cautiously  heated  to  redness,  but  not  to  fusion,  calcium  fluoride  and  sodium  aluminate 
are  produced,  this  last  compound  being  soluble  in  water  and  decomposed  by  carbon  diox- 
ide, which  precipitates  aluminum  hydroxide,  retaining  a little  sodium  carbonate,  while 
pure  sodium  carbonate  remains  in  solution. 

The  production  of  soda  directly  from  sodium  chloride  has  led  to  numerous  investiga- 
tions, and  as  early  as  1838  it  was  accomplished  by  H.  Dyar  and  J.  Hemming ; but  the 
process,  and  more  particularly  the  apparatus  for  the  successful  working  of  it,  attained 
greater  perfection  since  E.  Solvay  began  to  use  it  in  1865  on  an  extensive  scale.  It  con- 
sists in  conducting,  under  pressure,  into  a cold  concentrated  solution  of  sodium  chloride, 
first  ammonia  gas  and  afterward  carbon  dioxide,  when  sodium  bicarbonate  and  ammonium 
chloride  are  formed ; most  of  the  former  salt  is  deposited,  and  after  being  heated  to  red- 
ness requires  to  be  dissolved  in  water  and  crystallized  in  order  to  obtain  sodium  car- 
bonate. In  the  first  part  of  this  process  the  reaction  takes  place  between  ammonium 
bicarbonate  and  sodium  chloride,  but  the  conversion  of  the  latter  salt  into  bicarbonate  is 
never  complete. 

Sodium  carbonate  is  obtained  by  Leblanc's  process  from  sodium  sulphate,  which  is 
mixed  with  chalk  and  coal  and  the  mixture  ignited  ; the  mass  is  exhausted  with  water 
and  the  solution  concentrated,  the  carbonate  separating  from  the  hot  liquid  being  removed, 
while  fresh  portions  of  the  solution  are  added  until  the  carbonate  becomes  too  much  con- 
taminated with  foreign  salts,  when  it  is  calcined  with  charcoal  and  afterward  recrystai- 
lized.  In  the  first  part  of  this  process  sodium  carbonate  and  calcium  sulphate  are  formed 
by  double  decomposition,  and  the  sulphate  is  reduced  by  the  coal  to  sulphide  ; but  the 
ignited  mass  contains  also  caustic  soda,  sodium  sulphate  and  sulphite.  The  crude  prod- 
uct obtained  by  evaporating  the  first  solution  to  dryness  is  sent  to  market  as  soda-ash , 
and  of  this  165,502,900  pounds  were  imported  into  the  United  States  in  1876,  and  in 
addition  to  this  20,074,269  pounds  of  soda  carbonate  and  32,093,691  pounds  of  caustic 
soda.  The  importation  of  soda-ash  in  1883  reached  323,726,726  pounds,  and  in  1882,  of 
carbonate  and  caustic  soda,  29,842,140  and  56,878,896  pounds,  respectively.  Large 
quantities  of  these  compounds  are  also  manufactured  here. 


S0DI1  CARBON  AS. 


1463 


Fig.  287. 


Properties. — As  obtained  in  commerce,  sodium  carbonate  is  in  large,  colorless, 
oblique-rhombic  crystals,  or  frequently  in  crystalline  lumps,  inodorous,  and  with  a 
harsh  alkaline  taste  and  a decided  alkaline  reaction.  On  exposure  it  becomes  white  and 
friable  from  the  loss  of  water  of  crystallization,  and  ultimately  falls  into  a soft  white 
powder  ; the  amount  of  this  loss  depends  upon  the  temperature,  and  is  in  ordinary  dry 
air  of  12.5°  C.  (54.5°  F.)  31  per  cent.,  and  at  about  35°  C.  (95°  F.)  56.6  per  cent.  ; the 
last  molecule  of  water  is  expelled  below  the  boiling-point  of  water.  The  salt  is  sol- 
uble in  1.6  parts  of  water  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  in  0.09  part  at  38°  C.  (100.4°  F.),  and  in 
0.2  part  of  boiling  water;  insoluble  in  alcohol  and  in  ether;  soluble  in  1.02  parts  of 
glycerin.  When  heated  to  32.5°  C.  (90.5°  F.),  the  crystals  fuse  in  their  water  of  crys- 
tallization. At  a higher  temperature,  the  salt  continues  to  lose  water, 
until  at  last  an  anhydrous  residue  is  left,  corresponding  to  37  per  cent, 
of  the  weight  of  the  crystals.  At  a bright-red  heat  the  anhydrous  salt 
fuses.  To  a non-luminous  flame  it  imparts  an  intensely  yellow  color.  It 
effervesces  strongly  on  the  addition  of  an  acid. 

SODII  CARBONAS  VENALIS,  NATRIUM  CARBONICUM  CRUDUM,  P.  G. 

Sal  sodae,  Soda  cruda. — Sal  soda,  Washing  soda,  E. ; Sel  de  soude,  Ft.  ; 

Soda,  G. — This  is  the  salt  generally  met  with  in  commerce.  It  is  used 
for  preparing  the  pure  salt  by  recrystallizing  from  hot  water  until  the 
crystals  respond  to  the  pharmacopoeial  tests  of  purity,  and  it  is  advis- 
able to  agitate  the  cooling  solution,  so  as  to  obtain  small  crystals  or  a 
crystalline  powder,  which  is  readily  freed  from  the  mother-liquor  by 
draining  and  washing  with  a little  cold  water.  The  pure  salt  should  be 
kept  in  a well-stopped  bottle  in  a cool  place.  20  grains  of  it  neutralize 


9.7  grains  of  citric  acid  or  10J  grains  of  tartaric  acid. 


Crystal  of  Sodium 
Carbonate. 


Tests. — Commercial  sodium  carbonate  contains  small  but  variable 
quantities  of  sulphate  and  chloride,  and  its  solution  in  water  acidulated 
with  nitric  acid  therefore  produces  precipitates  with  barium  chloride  and  with  silver 
nitrate.  Cryolite  is  the  source  of  an  impurity  which  is  sometimes  met  with,  and  which 
consists  of  alumina  rendered  soluble  in  water  by  the  soda ; it  is  best  detected  by  acidu- 
lating its  solution  in  water  with  hydrochloric  acid,  heating  to  boiling,  and  then  supersat- 
urating with  ammonia,  when  gelatinous  aluminum  hydroxide  will  be  precipitated.  “ A 
5 per  cent,  aqueous  solution  of  the  salt  should  be  perfectly  clear  and  colorless,  leaving 
no  insoluble  residue.  If  5 Cc.  of  the  aqueous  solution  (1  in  20)  be  slightly  supersat- 
urated with  hydrochloric  acid,  the  liquid  should  not  be  colored  red  by  a drop  of  ferric 
chloride  test-solution  (absence  of  sulphocyanate).  If  to  5 Cc.  of  the  aqueous  solution, 
slightly  supersaturated  with  hydrochloric  acid,  an  equal  volume  of  hydrogen  sulphide 
test-solution  be  added,  no  turbidity  should  be  produced,  either  before  or  after  the  addition 
of  ammonia-water  in  slight  excess  (absence  of  arsenic,  lead,  iron,  aluminum,  etc.).  If 
5 Cc.  of  the  aqueous  solution  be  slightly  supersaturated  with  acetic  acid,  the  addition  of 
0.5  Cc.  of  ammonium  oxalate  test-solution  should  produce  no  turbidity  (absence  of  cal- 
cium). If  5 Cc.  of  the  aqueous  solution  be  slightly  supersaturated  with  acetic  acid,  the 
addition  of  0.5  Cc.  of  sodium  cobaltic  nitrite  test-solution  should  not  render  it  turbid 
within  one  hour  (limit  of  potassium).  If  1.2  Gm.  of  the  salt  be  dissolved  in  10  Cc.  of 
diluted  nitric  acid,  then  0.5  Cc.  of  decinormal  silver  nitrate  solution  added,  and  the  pre- 
cipitate, if  any,  be  removed  by  filtration,  the  clear  filtrate  should  remain  unaffected  by 
the  addition  of  more  silver  nitrate  test-solution  (limit  of  chloride).  If  2.5  Gm.  of  the 
salt  be  dissolved  in  10  Cc.  of  diluted  hydrochloric  acid,  then  0.1  Cc.  of  nitric  acid  and 
0.1  Cc.  of  barium  chloride  test-solution  added,  and  the  precipitate,  if  any,  be  removed  by 
filtration,  the  clear  filtrate  should  remain  unaffected  by  the  further  addition  of  barium 
chloride  test-solution  (limit  of  sulphate,  sulphite,  and  thiosulphate).  If  the  crystallized 
salt  be  heated  in  a test-tube,  the  vapor  of  ammonia  should  not  be  evolved.” — U.  S. 

The  limit  of  impurities  allowed  by  the  U.  S.  and  Germ.  Ph.  is  practically  identical  (1.1 
per  cent.),  the  former  demanding  that  1 Gm.  of  the  anhydrous  salt  shall  require  not  less 
than  18.7  Cc.  of  normal  acid  for  complete  neutralization,  while  the  Germ.  Ph.  requires 
for  1 Gm.  of  crystallized  (=0.37  Gm.  anhydrous)  salt  not  less  than  7 Cc.  of  normal  acid. 
The  Br.  Ph.  allows  4.3  per  cent,  of  impurities  by  requiring  for  14.3  Gm.  of  crystallized 
salt  96  Cc.  of  normal  oxalic  acid. 

Composition. — Pure  crystallized  sodium  carbonate  contains  62.9  per  cent,  of  water, 
21.7  per  cent,  of  Na20,  and  15.4  per  cent,  of  C02.  When  boiled  with  a little  water  a 
salt  is  deposited  containing  only  11.6  per  cent,  of  water  = 1H20.  Several  other  salts 
are  obtainable,  which  crystallize  with  3,  5,  and  7II20.  Besides  the  sodium  carbonate  and 


1464 


SOD  II  CARBON  AS  EXS1CCATUS. 


bicarbonate,  another  compound  of  intermediate  composition  may  be  obtained ; this  sesqui- 
carbonate  requires  about  7 parts  of  water  for  solution,  and  contains  nearly  22  per  cent,  of 
water. 

SODII  CARBONAS  EXSICCATUS,  U.  Dried  Sodium  Carbonate. 

Sodii  carbonas  exsiccata , Br. ; Natrium  carbonicum  siccum , P.  G. — Dried  carbonate  of 
soda, , E.  ; Carbonate  de  soude  sec , Fr. ; Entwdsserte  Soda , Gr. 

Formula  Na2C032H20.  Molecular  weight  141.77  (anhydrous  Na2C03  = 105.85). 

Preparation. — Sodium  carbonate  200  Gm. ; to  make  100  Gm.  Break  the  salt  into 
small  fragments,  allow  it  to  effloresce  by  exposure  to  warm  air  for  several  days,  then 
expose  it  to  a temperature  of  about  45°  C.  (113°  F.)  until  it  has  been  converted  into 
a white  powder  weighing  100  parts.  Pass  the  powder  through  a sieve  and  preserve  it  in 
well-stoppered  bottles. — U S. 

This  is  also  the  process  of  the  German  Pharmacopoeia,  and  was  admitted  so  as  to  facil- 
itate the  dispensing  of  sodium  carbonate.  The  warm  air  to  which  the  crystallized  salt  is 
to  be  exposed  in  the  beginning  should  be  of  a lower  temperature  than  the  melting-point 
(32.5°  C.)  of  the  salt,  when  a light  and  voluminous  powder  will  be  obtained.  Working 
strictly  according  to  the  pharmacopoeial  directions,  the  salt  will  have  the  composition 
given  above,  and  probably  is  a mixture  of  the  mono-  and  terhydrated  carbonate.  Near 
and  above  40°  C.  (104°  F.)  a salt  of  the  formula  Na2C03.H20  is  readily  obtained,  weighing 
If  oz.,  from  4 oz.  of  the  crystallized  salt.  The  product  of  the  British  Pharmacopoeia  is 
denser,  the  salt  being  at  first  fused  in  its  water  of  crystallization,  and  afterward  rendered 
anhydrous. 

Properties. — Dried  sodium  carbonate  is  a soft  white  powder  which  answers  to  the 
tests  and  reactions  of  the  crystallized  salt.  It  is  permanent  at  a temperature  of  30°  or 
35°  C.  (86°  or  95°  F.),  but  at  low  temperatures  absorbs  moisture.  2.65  Gm.  of  the 
anhydrous  salt,  if  pure,  require  for  neutralization  50  Cc.  of  the  normal  volumetric  solu- 
tion of  oxalic  acid  ; for  the  pharmacopoeial  salt  not  less  than  36.5  Cc.  should  be  necessary, 
showing  the  presence  of  at  least  73  per  cent.  Na2C03. 

History. — Under  Potassium  Nitrate  allusion  has  been  made  to  the  confusion 
between  nitrum  and  natron,  nitre  and  soda,  in  medical  and  natural  history.  It  is  prob- 
able that  anciently  they  were  not  clearly  distinguished  from  one  another.  It  appears  that 
originally  the  term  nitre  was  applied  to  native  sodium  carbonate,  and  that  the  same  name 
was  afterward  given  to  the  substance  procured  by  lixiviation  from  the  ashes  of  the  beech, 
oak,  and  other  trees. 

Soda  was  used  by  the  ancients  only  as  an  external  remedy  for  repressing  fungous  gran- 
ulations, stimulating  indolent  sores,  curing  eruptions  of  the  skin,  lessening  perspiration, 
whitening  the  teeth,  and  destroying  vermin.  It  was  habitually  dissolved  in  water  and 
applied  as  soap  is  at  present,  and  baths  of  a strong  solution  of  it  were  employed  in  the 
treatment  of  gout,  tetanus,  etc. 

Action  and  Uses.— The  nature  of  the  action  of  sodium  carbonate  must  be  closely 
analogous  to  that  of  the  bicarbonate,  but  it  differs  in  being  much  more  irritating.  Experi- 
mental researches  have  shown  that  when  from  1 to  5 drachms  of  this  salt  are  daily  taken 
by  men  for  ten  successive  days  the  blood  grows  lighter  in  color,  the  proportion  of  its 
white  corpuscles  and  water  increases,  while  that  of  its  other  solid  constituents  declines 
and  the  clot  exhibits  a diminished  firmness.  Meanwhile,  the  strength  is  impaired  and 
the  skin  grows  pale.  In  excessive  doses  sodium  carbonate  is  irritant  and  corrosive,  but 
not  so  much  so  as  potassium  carbonate.  Its  proper  a7itidotes  are  vinegar,  lemon-juice, 
or  a solution  of  tartaric  acid.  Subsequently  cream  or  olive  or  almond  oil  may  be 
administered. 

In  regard  to  the  internal  uses  of  sodium  carbonate  little  need  be  said  in  detail.  They 
are  the  same  as  those  of  the  bicarbonate,  but  are  much  less  frequently  resorted  to,  oil 
account  of  the  greater  mildness  of  the  action  of  the  latter  salt.  The  carbonate  is  espe- 
cially used  now,  as  it  was  in  ancient  times,  for  the  treatment  of  diseases  of  the  skin.  It 
is  most  frequently  applied  in  a general  bath,  from  4 to  16  ounces  of  the  salt  being  dis- 
solved in  a sufficient  quantity  of  water  at  a temperature  of  about  80°  F.  Each  bath 
should  last  for  at  least  an  hour.  The  effect  of  it  is  to  redden  the  skin,  to  stimulate  the 
affected  portions  to  assume  a more  healthy  action,  and  to  remove  the  sebaceous  and  acid 
secretions  adhering  to  it.  If  the  skin  is  already  in  an  irritable  condition,  very  little  of 
the  alkali  should  be  used,  and  its  acrimony  should  be  blunted  by  the  addition  of  mucilage 
or  bran  to  the  water.  Naturally,  the  dry  eruptions  (lichen,  prurigo,  lepra,  psoriasis,  pity- 


SODII  CHLORAS. 


1465 


riasis)  are  most  apt  to  be  benefited  by  this  treatment,  while  pustular  and  vesicular  affec- 
tions (impetigo,  eczema)  are  unsuited  for  its  use,  unless  the  solution  is  very  weak. 
Lotions  containing  sodium  carbonate  are  useful  in  many  local  eruptions,  as  those  of  the 
scalp,  in  herpes  circinatus,  lichen  agrius,  intertrigo,  and  pruritus  of  the  vulva.  In  some 
cases  of  inveterate  scaly  diseases,  and  in  a less  degree  in  chronic  papular  and  pustular 
affections,  the  long-continued  internal  use  of  this  medicine  is  sometimes  curative,  but 
seldom  until  it  has  produced  more  or  less  of  the  cachectic  phenomena  above  mentioned. 

Sodium  carbonate  has  also  been  employed  in  glandular  scrofula , whooping  cough , con- 
gestion of  the  liver , etc.,  but,  except  in  the  form  of  alkaline  mineral  waters,  without  not- 
able advantage. 

This  salt  is  seldom  administered  internally,  but  its  dose  may  be  stated  to  be  6m.  0.30— 
1.30  (gr.  v-xx),  dissolved  in  water  and  largely  diluted.  From  Gm.  60-250  (^ij-viij) 
may  be  used  in  a general  bath  for  diseases  of  the  skin.  A lotion  for  the  same  purpose 
should  contain  Gm.  1.30  in  Gm.  32  (gr.  xv-xx  to  the  ounce)  of  water  for  scaly  affec- 
tions, and  about  half  that  proportion  for  lichenoid  eruptions.  A solution  of  the  latter 
strength  is  appropriate  as  a wash  for  the  mucous  membrane  of  the  female  genital  organs. 
An  ointment  for  diseases  of  the  skin  may  be  made  with  about  Gm  4 in  Gm.  32  (^j  to  ^j) 
of  lard,  with  the  addition  of  1 or  2 fluidrachms,  Gm.  8 (f^j— ij),  of  laudanum. 

The  medicinal  qualities  of  dried  sodium  carbonate  are  identical  with  those  of  the  com- 
mon carbonate.  It  is  represented  to  be  convenient  for  administration  in  pills,  but  the 
irritant  qualities  of  the  salt  render  this  mode  of  prescribing  it  not  only  ineligible,  but 
imprudent.  The  dose  of  it  is  stated  to  be  Gm.  0.20—0.60  (gr.  iij— x). 

SODII  CHLORAS,  U.  Sodium  Chlorate. 

Natrium  chloricum,  Chloras  sodicus. — Chlorate  de  soude , Fr. ; Natriumchlorat , G. 

Formula  NaC103.  Molecular  weight  106.25. 

Sodium  chlorate  should  be  kept  in  glass-stoppered  bottles,  and  great  caution  should  be 
observed  in  handling  the  salt,  as  dangerous  explosions  are  liable  to  occur  when  it  is  mixed 
with  organic  matters  (cork,  tannic  acid,  sugar,  etc.),  or  with  sulphur,  antimony  sulphide, 
phosphorus,  or  other  easily  oxidizable  substances,  and  either  heated  directly  or  subjected 
to  trituration  or  concussion. 

Preparation. — This  salt  is  most  conveniently  obtained,  according  to  Wittstein,  by 
preparing  sodium  bitartrate  from  9 parts  of  crystallized  sodium  carbonate  and  9.5  parts 
of  tartaric  acid,  and  adding  the  hot  solution  to  one  containing  8 parts  of  potassium  chlo- 
rate. The  cold  liquid  is  filtered  from  the  precipitated  potassium  bitartrate,  evaporated, 
and  crystallized.  The  last  traces  of  bitartrate  may  be  removed  by  recrystallization  from 
alcohol.  The  yield  is  about  7.5  parts.  The  salt  is  also  formed,  like  the  corresponding 
potassium  salt  (see  p.  1290),  by  passing  chlorine  into  solution  of  soda  and  boiling ; the 
resulting  chlorate  requires  to  be  freed  from  chloride  by  repeated  crystallization,  involving 
considerable  loss,  owing  to  the  ready  solubility  of  both  salts. 

Hager  recommends  the  following:  Dissolve  100  parts  of  potassium  chlorate  and  60 
parts  of  official  dry  sodium  carbonate  in  600  parts  of  warm  water ; allow  to  cool,  add 
300  parts  of  alcohol,  set  aside  in  a cool  place  for  two  days,  decant  the  solution,  distil  off 
the  alcohol,  evaporate  to  crystallization,  and  purify  by  recrystallization.  The  yield  is 
about  85  parts. 

Properties. — Sodium  chlorate  crystallizes  in  the  form  of  regular  cubes,  combined 
with  the  dodecahedron  and  tetrahedron.  The  crystals  are  colorless  and  transparent,  or 
the  salt  is  seen  in  a white  crystalline  powder,  and  is 
air,  inodorous,  and  has  a cooling;  saline  taste  : it  is 
(59°  F.)  in  1.1  parts  of  water,  and  in  about  100 
in  0.5  part  of  boiling  water,  and  in  about  40  part 
hoi;  also  soluble  in  5 parts  of  glycerin.  When 
melts,  then  gives  off  oxygen  (about  45  per  cen 
and  finally  leaves  a residue  of  sodium  chloride 
water,  and  yielding,  with  silver  nitrate  test-solutio 
precipitate,  insoluble  in  nitric  acid.  To  a non-1 
imparts  an  intensely  yellow  color.  The  aqueous  s 
to  litmus-paper.  When  a crystal  of  the  salt  is  dr( 
chloric  acid,  the  liquid  assumes  a deep  greenish  - 
emits  the  odor  of  chlorine. 

Tests. — “A  saturated  aqueous  solution  should  not  be  rendered  turbid  by  sodium 


! permanent  in  the 
soluble  at  15°  C. 
parts  of  alcohol ; 
;s  of  boiling  alco- 
heated,  the  salt 
t.  of  its  weight), 
readily  soluble  in 
>n,  a white,  curdy 
uminous  flame  it 
olution  is  neutral 
)pped  into  hydro- 
yellow color  and 


Fig.  288. 


Crystal  of  Sodium  Chlo- 
rate. 


1466 


SOD II  CIILORIDUM. 


bitartrate  test-solution  (limit  of  potassium).  An  aqueous  solution  of  the  residue  left 
after  igniting  a portion  of  the  salt,  should  not  give  an  alkaline  reaction  with  litmus-paper 
(absence  of  tartrate).  The  aqueous  solution  (1  in  20),  slightly  acidulated  with  acetic 
acid,  should  not  be  rendered  turbid  by  the  addition  of  an  equal  volume  of  hydrogen  sul- 
phide test-solution,  either  at  once  (absence  of  arsenic,  lead,  etc.),  or  after  the  addition  of 
ammonia-water  in  slight  excess  (absence  of  iron,  aluminum,  etc.).  The  aqueous  solution 
(1  in  20)  should  not  be  rendered  turbid  by  adding  to  it  a few  drops  of  ammonia-water 
and  then  sodium  phosphate . test-solution  (absence  of  magnesium).  The  solution  (1  in 
20),  slightly  acidulated  with  acetic  acid,  should  not  be  rendered  turbid  by  ammonium 
oxalate  test-solution  (absence  of  calcium)  ; nor  by  barium  chloride  test-solution  (absence 
of  sulphate)  ; nor  should  silver  nitrate  test-solution  produce  in  it  more  than  a slight  opal- 
escence (limit  of  chloride).” — U.  S. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  salt  is  identical  in  the  nature  of  its  properties  with  potas- 
sium chlorate,  but  its  action  is  very  much  milder.  It  has  been  but  little  used.  The 
dose  may  be  stated  at  Gm.  0.30-1.30  (gr.  v-xx),  but  it  can  seldom  be  needed  as  an 
internal  medicine.  As  a gargle  or  wash  a solution  of  from  2 to  5 per  cent,  may  be 
prescribed. 


SODII  CHLORIDUM,  77.  S.,  Br, — Sodium  Chloride. 

Natrium  chloratum , P.  G. ; Chloruretum  sodicum , Sal  commune , s.  culinare. — Common 
salt , Table-salt , Sodium  chloride , E. ; Chlorure  de  sodium , Sel  commun , Sel  de  cuisine , Fr. ; 
C hlor natrium,  Kochsalz , G. 

Formula  NaCl.  Molecular  weight  58.37. 

Origin  and  Preparation. — Sodium  chloride  is  found  native  in  extensive  beds  and 
in  different  geological  formations,  though  mostly  associated  with  clay  and  calcium  sul- 
phate, and  constitutes  rock-salt  or  sal  gem  if  very  pure  and  transparent.  This  is  mined, 
mechanically  freed  from  the  adhering  impurities,  and  sold  as  rock-salt  or  purified  by 
recrystallization.  In  some  places  holes  are  dug  into  the  rock  and  filled  with  water,  which 
is  pumped  up  when  nearly  saturated  with  salt  and  evaporated. 

Most  saline  springs  contain  sodium  chloride.  If  the  salt  is  present  in  sufficiently  large 
proportion,  it  is  recovered  by  evaporation ; but  if  present  in  the  solution  only  in  limited 
proportion,  the  spring  water  is  first  concentrated,  in  some  parts  of  France  and  Germany, 
by  pumping  it  up  on  a high  scaffolding  and  causing  it  to  trickle  over  layers  of  brushwood, 
whereby,  from  the  largely-extended  surface  exposed  to  the  air,  much  water  is  evaporated, 
and  a brine  is  obtained  which  may  be  economically  concentrated  by  artificial  heat.  Some- 
times the  brine  contains  also  considerable  proportions  of  gypsum  and  sodium  sulphate, 
which  salts  are  deposited  from  the  boiling  brine  and  raked  out ; when  nearly  free  from 
these  salts  and  sufficiently  concentrated,  the  liquor  is  no  longer  mixed  with  fresh  portions 
of  the  brine,  but  is  maintained  at  an  elevated  temperature  and  the  salt  removed  as  it 
crystallizes.  The  size  of  the  crystals,  called  grain  of  the  salt,  varies  with  the  heat,  and 
increases  as  the  temperature  falls. 

Sea-water  is  a solution  of  various  salts,  prominent  among  which  is  sodium  chloride, 
which  is  contained  in  the  waters  of  the  large  oceans  to  the  amount  of  from  2.6  to  2.9 
per  cent.,  but  is  much  less  in  the  large  bays  and  seas  which  are  surrounded  by  land,  and 
sinks — for  instance,  in  the  water  of  the  Baltic  Sea — to  J per  cent.  The  extraction  of 
the  salt  from  sea-water  depends  upon  the  climate,  the  water  being  removed  either  by 
freezing  or  by  evaporation.  When  frozen,  sea-water  yields  pure  ice  and  leaves  a more 
concentrated  saline  solution.  In  warmer  countries  the  concentration  is  effected  by  spon- 
taneous evaporation  in  shallow  pits,  the  brine  as  it  concentrates  being  conducted  into 
other  pits,  and  finally  into  reservoirs,  where  the  salt  is  deposited. 

The  mother-liquors  which  are  obtained  in  the  several  processes  described  are  solutions 
of  various  salts,  usually  sulphates  and  chlorides,  in  some  cases  also  of  sodium,  potassium, 
calcium,  and  magnesium  bromides,  and  they  frequently  yield  salts  or  double  salts  of 
definite  composition  by  being  concentrated  and  exposed  to  either  a low  or  an  elevated 
temperature ; they  are  used  up  in  the  preparation  of  sodium  sulphate,  magnesium  sul- 
phate, and  bromine. 

In  addition  to  the  large  quantities  of  salt  obtained  in  the  United  States,  about 
750,000,000  pounds  of  it  are  annually  imported. 

Properties. — -When  crystallized  by  spontaneous  evaporation  sodium  chloride  forms 
transparent  cubes ; but  when  the  solution  is  evaporated  at  an  elevated  temperature,  the 
crystals  aggregate  on  the  surface  of  the  liquid  in  the  form  of  white  or  translucent  hollow 


SOD II  CHLOnWXJM. 


1467 


pyramids.  It  is  very  frequently  kept  in  tlie  form  of  a white,  granular,  crystalline  pow- 
der, which  is  inodorous  and  permanent  in  the  air,  unless  contaminated  with  magnesium 
chloride,  when  it  becomes  moist  in  a damp  atmosphere.  On  the  application  of  heat 
sodium  chloride  usually  decrepitates,  and  at  a red  heat  it  melts  and  is  slowly  volatilized. 
It  has  a neutral  reaction  to  test-paper,  a density  of  2.16,  and  a purely  saline  taste.  It 
is  very  sparingly  soluble  in  strong  alcohol,  and  requires  a little  less  than  3 parts  of  hot 
or  cold  water  for  solution.  100  parts  of  water  dissolve  at  0°  C.  (32°  F.)  35.52  parts,  at 
14°  C.  (57.2°  F.)  35.87  parts,  at  25°  C.  (77°  F.)  36.13  parts,  at  60°  C.  (140°  F.)  37.25 
parts,  and  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  39.61  parts,  of  sodium  chloride  (Poggiale).  On  cooling 
the  saturated  aqueous  solution  to  below  the  freezing-point  of  water,  transparent  colorless 
prisms,  NaC1.2H20,  are  obtained,  which  melt  above  0°  C.  (32°  F.)  and  deposit  a granular 
powder  of  the  anhydrous  salt.  Dilute  aqueous  solutions  of  sodium  chloride  produce  at 
a low  temperature  ice  which  is  free  from  the  salt,  and  concentrated  solutions  deposit 
crystals  of  the  salt  before  they  freeze.  A fragment  of  the  salt  imparts  to  a non-lumi- 
nous  flame  an  intense  yellow  color,  not  appearing  more  than  transiently  red  when  observed 
through  a blue  glass ; the  aqueous  solution,  acidulated  with  nitric  acid,  yields  with  test- 
solution  of  silver  nitrate  a white  precipitate  soluble  in  ammonia. — U.  S. 

Composition. — Sodium  chloride  contains  60.6  per  cent,  of  chlorine  and  39.4  per 
cent,  of  sodium.  Heated  with  sulphuric  acid,  hydrochloric  acid  is  given  off. 

Tests. — The  aqueous  solution  of  sodium  chloride  should  not  be  precipitated  by 
sodium  carbonate  (absence  of  calcium,  magnesium,  etc.),  barium  chloride  (sulphate), 
hydrogen  sulphide  or  ammonium  sulphide  (metals).  “ If  2 Gm.  of  the  salt  be  digested 
with  25  Cc.  of  alcohol,  the  cold  and  filtered  alcoholic  solution  evaporated  to  dryness,  the 
residue  dissolved  in  10  Cc.  of  water,  a little  gelatinized  starch  added,  and  subsequently 
chlorine-water  drop  by  drop,  no  colored  tint  should  make  its  appearance  at  the  line  of 
contact  of  the  two  liquids  (absence  of  iodide  or  bromide).  No  turbidity  should  be  pro- 
duced in  5 Cc.  of  the  aqueous  solution  (1  in  20)  by  the  addition  of  0.5  Cc.  of  sodium 
cobaltic  nitrite  test-solution  (limit  of  potassium)/’ — U.  S.  Hager  recommends  for  the 
same  purpose  the  following  simple  test : Put  into  a dry  test-tube  sufficient  of  the  pow- 
dered salt  to  form  a layer  about  25  Mm.  (1  inch)  thick  ; press  it  firmly  with  a glass  rod, 
and  add  carefully  twice  this  volume  of  a cold  saturated  solution  of  copper  sulphate  ; the 
salt  must  retain  its  color  and  remain  free  from  dark  spots.  (See  Sodii  Bromidum.) 
1 Gm.  of  sodium  chloride,  when  completely  precipitated  by  silver  nitrate,  should  yield 
2.450  Gm.  of  dry  silver  chloride.  If  0.195  Gm.  of  well-dried  sodium  chloride  be  dis- 
solved in  10  Cc.  of  water,  and  the  solution  mixed  with  a few  drops  of  potassium  chro- 
mate test-solution,  it  should  require  not  less  than  33.3  Cc.  of  decinormal  silver  nitrate 
solution  to  produce  a permanent  red  color  (corresponding  to  at  least  99.9  per  cent,  of 
the  pure  salt). 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Sodium  chloride  is  used  in  the  preparation  of  chlorine, 
hydrochloric  acid,  corrosive  sublimate,  and  calomel. 

Action  and  Uses. — Sodium  chloride  is  a natural  constituent  of  the  body  and  the 
chief  source  of  its  most  important  secretion,  the  gastric  juice,  and  for  this  reason  is  an 
essential  constituent  or  condiment  of  all  solid  food.  Its  excessive  and  long-continued 
use  in  food  produces  scurvy.  Large  doses  of  it  cause  vomiting  and  diarrhoea,  and  death 
has  resulted  from  them. 

It  has  been  proposed  to  use  salt  for  the  cure  of  intermittent  fever , upon  the  ground 
that  it  causes  contraction  of  the  spleen  enlarged  by  the  disease.  From  half  an  ounce  to 
an  ounce  has  been  given  for  this  purpose  during  the  apyrexia,  and  usually,  unless  dis- 
solved in  too  much  water,  it  neither  vomits  nor  purges.  This  is  said  to  be  a popular 
medicine  in  some  river  localities  and  among  boatmen,  who  usually  swallow  a tablespoonful 
or  so  of  salt  mixed  with  gin.  It  has  also  been  recommended  to  be  taken  after  being 
roasted  in  a pan  over  a gentle  fire  {Med.  Record , xiv.  198).  There  is  no  sufficient  proof 
of  the  efficacy  of  the  medicine.  A similar  remark  may  be  applied  to  its  use  in  pulmo- 
nary phthisis , notwithstanding  certain  physicians  of  repute  have  attested  its  benefits. 
This  judgment  does  not  apply  to  an  ordinary  incident  of  consumption,  haemoptysis,  for 
which  a teaspoonful  of  dry  table-salt  may  be  given  at  intervals  of  fifteen  or  twenty  min- 
utes. Nothing  appears  to  be  so  successful  in  arresting  this  form  of  haemorrhage,  but  all 
the  ingenious  hypotheses  invented  to  explain  its  apparent  action  are  chimerical.  If  the 
haemorrhage,  like  most  others,  did  not  usually  cease  spontaneously  when  the  patient  is 
kept  perfectly  still,  the  action  of  the  salt  would  be  less  ambiguous.  The  same  remarks 
are  more  or  less  applicable  to  the  use  of  salt  to  arrest  epistuxis,  in  which,  however,  it  gen- 
erally fails  to  give  any  evidence  of  haemostatic  virtues. 


1468 


SOD II  CHLORIDUM. 


In  the  various  forms  of  scrofula  affecting  the  glands,  the  skin,  or  the  bones  salt  lias 
been  used  internally  and  externally,  but  chiefly  in  the  latter  mode  in  sea-baths  and  the 
baths  of  various  mineral  springs ; and  doubtless  these  agents  are  often  useful  through 
their  stimulant  operation,  without  any  reference  to  their  special  saline  constituents,  in  so 
far  as  they  promote  tissue-change.  Gargles  of  salt  water  have  been  used  with  some 
advantage  to  promote  the  separation  of  the  false  membranes  in  diphtheria. 

As  salt  is  essential  to  the  digestion  of  food,  so  is  it  of  use  in  certain  forms  of  dyspepsia , 
doubtless  by  promoting  the  secretion  of  the  gastric  juice,  and  perhaps  also  by  its  direct 
solvent  action  upon  some  kinds  of  aliment.  It  is  especially  indicated  in  those  forms  of 
dyspepsia  which  are  attended  with  decomposition  of  the  food  in  the  stomach,  causing 
flatulence,  acidity,  and  pain,  and  either  diarrhoea,  as  in  children,  or  constipation,  as  in 
adults.  It  may  be  best  administered  in  the  form  of  natural  mineral  waters  rich  in  this 
ingredient  or  in  carbonic  acid  water. 

In  epidemic  cholera  the  injection  of  salt  and  water  into  the  veins  has  frequently  been 
followed  by  temporary  improvement,  and  when  duly  repeated,  especially  at  the  beginning 
of  reaction,  it  has  hastened  and  secured  recovery.  It  is  also  claimed  that  a tablespoonful 
of  a solution  of  1 ounce  of  salt  in  i pint  of  water,  given  by  the  stomach  at  intervals  of  a 
quarter  of  an  hour,  has  repeatedly  arrested  the  disease  If  such  be  the  fact,-  its  explana- 
tion may  probably  be  that  the  saline  solution  acts  directly  upon  the  cholera  poison  whose 
influence  upon  the  gastro-intestinal  mucous  membrane  produces  the  serous  exhalation 
which  constitutes  the  primary  element  of  the  disease.  In  a number  of  cases  life  has 
been  saved  from  impending  death  from  haemorrhage  by  injecting  gradually  into  the 
median  vein  about  2 pints  of  distilled  or  boiled  water  holding  in  solution  about  90  grains 
of  common  salt  and  15  grains  of  sodium  carbonate  (‘ Centralbl.  f.  Therapie , i.  387,  389; 
Mikulicz,  Wiener  Klinik , July,  1884  ; Thon,  Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  Oct.  1884,  p. 
430  ; Harrington,  ibid.,  Mar.,  1886,  p.  197  ; Rook,  Jour.  Am.  Med.  Assoc.,  vii.  367).  The 
subcutaneous  injection  of  saline  liquids  has  been  found  efficient  in  like  cases  ( Therap . 
Monatsheft , iii.  31,  477 ; iv.  94,  255).  Salt  is  an  ancient,  and  continues  to  be  a 
popular  remedy  for  intestinal  worms,  especially  for  lumbricoid  worms.  Enemas  of  salt 
water  form  an  excellent  remedy  for  ascarides  of  the  rectum.  Probably  in  both  cases 
the  parasites  are  destroyed  by  the  salt  abstracting  the  water  from  their  tissues.  In  a 
similar  manner,  when  leeches  are  sprinkled  with  salt  they  disgorge  the  blood  which  they 
had  swallowed.  It  has  been  supposed  that  the  anthelmintic  virtues  of  helminthocorton, 
or  Corsican  moss,  depend  upon  the  saline  element  which  saturates  it. 

Salt  has  been  employed  with  some  effect  in  diabetes , and  certainly  some  of  the 
mineral  waters  used  in  that  disease  contain  it.  But,  given  in  simple  watery  solution,  it 
is  alleged  to  reduce  the  proportion  of  sugar  and  the  amount  of  urine  voided.  In  chronic 
albuminuria  doses  of  10  grains  three  times  a day  have  been  thought  useful  (Meminiger, 
Med.  News,  xlix.  263). 

It  is  a familiar  fact  that  salt  meat,  olives,  and  other  saline  articles  tend  to  prevent  alco- 
holic intoxication,  and  enemas  of  salt  water  have  been  repeatedly  employed  with  success 
to  rouse  drunkards  from  their  lethargy  or  abate  their  delirious  pugnacity.  Similar  injec- 
tions are  in  common  use  to  relieve  congestion  of  the  brain,  which  they  do  more  speedily 
than  can  be  explained  by  the  mere  removal  of  faeces  from  the  rectum.  A teaspoonful  of 
dry  salt  swallowed  on  the  threatening  of  the  epileptic  paroxysm  is  a remedy  that  com- 
mands popular  belief.  Salt  water  is  often  employed  as  an  emetic  to  empty  the  stomach 
gorged  with  food  or  containing  narcotic  or  other  poisons.  Salt  is  a direct  antidote  to 
nitrate  of  silver , converting  it  into  the  comparatively  innocuous  chloride. 

The  local  applications  of  salt  are  numerous.  It  is  used  to  limit  the  action  of  silver 
nitrate  applied  to  the  eye,  throat,  vagina,  etc.,  in  an  atomized  solution  for  the  treatment 
of  subacute  and  chronic  affections  of  the  pharynx  and  larynx,  and  by  the  nasal  douche 
in  catarrh  of  the  nostrils  and  ozsena.  The  solution  used  for  the  latter  purpose  should  not 
contain  more  than  20  grains  of  salt  to  a pint  of  water.  Stronger  solutions  are  apt  to  be 
painful  and  to  aggravate  the  disease.  A similar  solution  inspired  from  the  hands  while 
the  head  is  bent  forward  almost  horizontally  will  often  answer  the  purpose  as  well.  Salt 
and  water  may  also  be  used  as  a wash  for  mercurial  sore  mouth,  as  an  injection  in  vaginal 
leucorrhcea , as  a wash  for  indolent  ulcers , for  pruritus  vulvse,  and  for  the  stings  and  bites  of 
insects.  Hot  salt  enclosed  in  bags  is  an  excellent  application  in  colic,  dysmenorrhoea, 
toothache,  and  muscular  rheumatism ; a solution  of  it  in  whiskey  is  a popular  remedy 
for  the  last-named  disease  and  for  discussing  bruises,  glandular  swellings , etc. ; and, 
finally,  a warm  salt  foot-bath  (100°  F.)  is  one  of  the  best  palliatives  of  congestive  head- 
ache, uterine  pain,  and  similar  disorders.  Salt-water  baths  (A  per  cent,  strong)  have 


SODII  CITRO-TARTRAS  EFFER VESCENS. — SODII  HYPOPHOSPHIS.  1469 


been  recommended  as  more  cleansing  and  refreshing  than  those  of  soap  and  water,  and  a 
5 per  cent,  strength  as  more  agreeable  and  useful  than  soap  baths  in  subacute  eczema , 
psoriasis , etc.  (Piffard,  Amer.  Jour.  Med.  Sci .,  Jan.  1888,  p.  95). 

SODII  CITRO-TARTRAS  EFFERVESCENS,  ^.—Effervescent 
Sodium  Citro-Tartrate. 

Preparation. — Take  in  fine  powder  Sodium  Bicarbonate  17  ounces  ; Tartaric  Acid 
9 ounces ; Citric  Acid  6 ounces  ; and  Refined  Sugar  5 ounces.  Mix  the  powders  thor- 
oughly, place  them  in  a dish  or  pan  of  suitable  form  heated  to  between  93.3°— 104.4° 
C.  (200°  to  220°  F.),  and  when  the  particles  of  the  powder  begin  to  aggregate  stir  them 
assiduously  until  they  assume  a granular  form  ; then  by  means  of  suitable  sieves  separate 
the  granules  of  uniform  and  most  convenient  size,  and  preserve  the  preparation  in  well- 
closed  bottles. — Br. 

For  the  preparation  of  granular  powders,  see  page  1254.  If  kept  dry,  this  citro-tartrate 
is  preferable  to  a mixture  of  the  powdered  ingredients,  which  soon  undergoes  decomposi- 
tion. Thrown  into  water,  it  dissolves  with  brisk  effervescence . 

Action  and  Uses. — This  preparation  is  equivalent  in  its  action  to  the  effervescing 
draught,  and  may  be  prescribed  with  advantage  to  moderate  fever,  promote  perspiration, 
and  diminish  the  acidity  of  the  urine  and  other  secretions.  It  is  conveniently  employed 
in  fevers  and  inflammations , and  especially  in  acute  articular  rheumatism.  Dose , Gm.  4-8 
(&j~ij)  several  fluidounces  of  water. 

SODII  HYPOPHOSPHIS,  U.  Br.— Sodium  Hypophosphite. 

Sodse  liypophosphis , Br. ; Natrium  hypophosphorosum,  Hypopliosphis  sodicus. — Hypo- 
phosphite  de  sonde , Fr. ; Unterphosphorigsaures  Natron , G. 

Formula  NaH2P02.H20.  Molecular  weight  105.84. 

Preparation. — An  aqueous  solution  of  6 parts  of  calcium  hypophosphite  is  accu- 
rately precipitated  by  a solution  of  10  parts  of  crystallized  sodium  carbonate  ; insoluble 
calcium  carbonate  and  soluble  sodium  hypophosphite  are  produced,  and  separated  by 
filtration  ; on  evaporating  the  filtrate,  the  latter  salt  is  left  behind,  and  if  necessary  may 
be  freed  from  sodium  carbonate  by  redissolving  it  in  alcohol,  filtering,  and  evaporating. 
Berlandt  (1865)  recommends  its  preparation  with  granulated  phosphorus  (see  page  1244), 
of  which  23J  parts  are  macerated  in  a flask  at  10°  C.  (50°  F.)  with  25  parts  of  caustic 
soda  and  100  parts  of  water ; after  the  phosphorus  has  been  dissolved,  the  liquid  is 
mixed  with  four  times  its  volume  of  alcohol,  neutralized  with  sulphuric  acid,  filtered,  and 
evaporated.  During  the  evaporation  decomposition  with  explosion  has  occasionally  been 
noticed,  which  was  caused  by  too  high  a heat;  the  temperature  of  the  evaporating  solu- 
tion should  therefore  be  kept  below  that  of  boiling  water. 

Properties. — Sodium  hypophosphite  is  usually  obtained  in  the  form  of  a white 
granular  powder,  but  by  the  slow  evaporation  of  its  alcoholic  solution  may  be  procured 
in  pearly  rectangular,  tabular  crystals,  which,  when  dried  over  sulphuric  acid  and  after- 
ward heated  not  quite  to  200°  C.  (392°  F.),  lose  nearly  17  per  cent,  of  water.  At  a 
higher  heat  spontaneously  inflammable  hydrogen  phosphide  is  evolved,  and  a porous 
mixture  of  sodium  pyrophosphate  and  metaphosphate  is  left.  The  salt  is  inodorous,  has 
a peculiar  bitterish  (sweetish,  U.  S .)  saline  taste,  is  deliquescent  in  the  air,  though  less 
so  than  potassium  hypophosphite,  and  is  easily  soluble  in  water,  and  likewise  in  absolute 
alcohol,  but  is  insoluble  in  ether.  The  II.  S.  P.  states  it  to  be  soluble  in  1 part  of  water 
and  in  30  parts  of  alcohol  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  in  0.12  part  of  boiling  water,  and  in  1 part 
of  boiling  alcohol.  A fragment  of  the  salt  imparts  to  a non-luminous  flame  an  intense 
yellow  color,  not  appearing  more  than  transiently  red  when  observed  through  a blue  glass. 
On  triturating  or  heating  the  salt  with  an  oxidizing  agent  the  mixture  will  explode.  The 
aqueous  solution  yields  with  test-solution  of  silver  nitrate  a white  precipitate,  which 
rapidly  turns  brown  and  black ; and  when  acidulated  with  hydrochloric  acid  and  added 
to  excess  of  test-solution  of  mercuric  chloride,  it  first  produces  a white  precipitate  of 
calomel,  and  on  further  addition  metallic  mercury  separates. — U.  S.  When  evaporated 
with  dilute  nitric  acid  and  finally  ignited,  a residue  is  obtained  weighing  97  per  cent,  of 
the  weight  of  the  hypophosphite,  and  consisting  of  sodium  metaphosphate.  Like  all 
hypophosphites,  the  salt  is  oxidized  on  exposure  to  the  air  to  phosphite  and  phosphate, 
and  must  therefore  be  preserved  in  well-stoppered  bottles. 

Tests. — The  aqueous  solution  of  the  salt  should  not  effervesce  on  the  addition  of  an 


1470 


SODII  H YPOS  ULPH1S. 


acid  (absence  of  carbonate),  and  should  not  be  precipitated  nor  be  rendered  cloudy  by 
test-solution  of  ammonium  oxalate  (absence  of  calcium).  After  being  acidulated  with 
hydrochloric  acid  it  should  not  produce  a white  precipitate  or  cloudiness  with  test-solu- 
tion of  barium  chloride  (sulphate).  A solution  of  0.5  Gm.  of  the  salt  in  1 Cc.  of  water 
should  yield  no  precipitate  upon  addition  of  1 Cc.  of  sodium  bitartrate  test-solution 
(limit  of  potassium).  In  the  aqueous  solution  (1  in  20),  acidulated  with  hydrochloric 
acid,  an  equal  volume  of  hydrogen  sulphide  test-solution  should  not  produce  any  tur- 
bidity (absence  of  arsenic,  lead,  etc.).  After  treating  5 Cc.  of  the  aqueous  solution  (1 
in  20)  with  1 Cc.  of  nitric  acid,  the  solution  should  remain  clear  upon  addition  of  silver 
nitrate  test-solution  (absence  of  chloride).  Not  more  than  a slight  cloudiness  should  be 
produced  in  the  aqueous  solution  of  the  salt  by  magnesia  mixture  (limit  of  phosphate). 
Potassium  ferrocyanide  test-solution  should  not  produce  in  the  acidulated  solution  any 
blue  color  (absence  of  iron).  If  0.1  Gm.  of  dry  sodium  hypophosphite  be  dissolved  in 
10  Cc.  of  water,  mixed  with  7.5  Cc.  of  sulphuric  acid  and  40  Cc.  of  decinormal  potas 
sium  permanganate  solution,  and  the  mixture  boiled  for  fifteen  minutes,  it  should  require 
not  more  than  3 Cc.  of  decinormal  oxalic  acid  solution  to  discharge  the  red  color,  corre- 
sponding to  at  least  97.90  per  cent,  of  the  pure  salt.” — XI.  S. 

Each  Cc.  of  decinormal  potassium  permanganate  solution  is  capable  of  oxidizing 
0.002646  Gm.  of  crystallized  sodium  hypophosphite,  the  reaction  being  the  same  as 
shown  under  the  corresponding  potassium  salt,  and  hence  37  Cc.  of  the  permanganate 
solution  will  be  required  for  each  0.1  Gm.  of  sodium  hypophosphite  of  official  purity 
(97.9  per  cent.). 

5 gr.  of  the  salt  dissolved  in  l oz.  of  water,  and  boiled  for  ten  minutes  with  111  gr. 
of  potassium  permanganate,  yield  a nearly  colorless  filtrate. — Br. 

Action  and  Uses. — Sodium  hypophosphite  has  been  administered  in  chronic  bron- 
chitis and  in  cases  of  nervous  depression  with  a sense  of  heaviness  or  numbness  in  the 
limbs,  in  sexual  impotence , and  various  other  exhausted  states  of  the  nervous  system, 
including  those  produced  by  scrofula , syphilis , and  anszmia.  This  and  the  other  alkaline 
and  earthy  phosphites  and  hypophosphites  have  also  been  used  with  alleged  success  in 
phthisis , but  the  allegations  have  been  unsupported  by  the  results  of  experience.  The 
apparent  value  of  the  phosphatic  compound  in  the  above-named  diseases  is  to  be  explained 
by  the  associated  medicinal  and  hygienic  treatment.  The  dose  of  sodium  hypophosphite 
is  Gm.  0.50  (gr.  viij)  or  more  given  during  digestion. 

SODII  HYPOSULPHIS,  77.  Sodium  Hyposulphite  (Sodium  Thio- 
sulphate). 

Natrium  thiosulfuricum , P.  G.  ; Natrium  subsul/urosum  ( hyposulfurosum ),  Hyposulphis 
sodicus. — Hyposulphite  de  soude,  Sidjite  sulfure  de  soude,  Fr.  ; Natriumthiosulfat,  G. 

Formula  Na2S203.5H20.  Molecular  weight  247.64. 

The  Pharmacopoeia  has  continued  the  official  name  of  1880  for  this  salt,  but  has 
added  the  synonym  “ Sodium  Thiosulphate.”  We  think  the  new  revision  of  the  Phar- 
macopoeia offered  an  excellent  opportunity  for  introducing  the  correct  chemical  name  as 
the  official  name  (as  has  been  done  by  the  Germ.  Phar.),  the  old  name  being  added  in 
parenthesis  with  the  qualification  “ formerly,  but  wrongly  called.”  There  is  no  longer 
any  doubt  as  to  the  difference  between  hyposulphurous  and  thiosulphuric  acids,  and  the 
chemical  formula  assigned  to  the  official  compound  is  not  in  conformity  with  the  official 
title,  which  latter  applies  to  a salt  of  the  composition  NaHS02.  True  hyposulphurous 
acid,  H2S02,  is  obtained  by  the  action  of  zinc  on  sulphurous  acid,  zinc  sulphite  being 
formed  and  the  liberated  hydrogen  reducing  sulphurous  to  hyposulphurous  acid,  with 
the  formation  of  water.  The  acid  is  a strong  reducing  agent,  and  when  exposed  to  the 
air  is  decomposed,  yielding  first  thiosulphuric  acid,  and  then  sulphur  dioxide,  sulphur, 
and  water ; it  has  been  obtained  as  a deep-yellow  colored  liquid.  True  sodium  hyposul- 
phite may  be  prepared  by  treating  a solution  of  acid  sodium  sulphite  (bisulphite)  with 
metallic  zinc,  whereby  sodium  hyposulphite  and  sulphite,  together  with  zinc  sulphite,  are 
formed  ; thus,  3NaIIS03  + Zn  = NaHS02  -f  Na2S03  + ZnS03  -}-  H20.  The  salt  is  used 
by  dyers  and  calico-printers  for  the  reduction  of  indigo. 

Thiosulphuric  acid,  H2S203,  the  acid  present  in  the  official  salt,  has  never  been  obtained 
in  a free  state,  but  a series  of  stable  salts  (thiosulphates)  has  been  prepared  by  boiling 
the  respective  sulphites  in  solution  with  sulphur ; thus,  Na2S03  -f-  S = Na2S203 ; they 
may  also  be  obtained  by  adding  iodine  to  a mixture  of  sulphite  and  sulphide,  thus, 
Na2S03  + Na2S  -j-  I2  = Na2S203  -j-  2NaI,  or  by  the  action  of  sulphur  on  alkali  hydroxide, 


SOD II  HYPOS  ULPHIS. 


1471 


when  alkali  pentasulphide  is  simultaneously  formed.  The  fact  that  thiosulphates  show  a 
great  tendency  to  form  double  salts,  as  well  as  their  decomposition,  when  heated,  into  sul- 
phates and  sulphides,  readily  distinguishes  them  from  true  hyposulphites,  which  latter, 
when  heated,  break  up  into  thiosulphates  and  water. 

Preparation. — The  process  proposed  by  Walchner  is  as  follows  : A mixture  of  3 
parts  of  exsiccated  sodium  carbonate  and  1 part  of  sulphur  is  heated  in  a porcelain  dish 
gradually  to  the  fusing-point  of  sulphur,  and  repeatedly  stirred  to  facilitate  contact  with 
the  air.  Sodium  sulphide  is  first  formed,  and  then  oxidized  to  sulphite,  Na2S03 ; this 
salt  is  dissolved  in  a little  water,  and  by  boiling  with  more  sulphur  converted  into  thio- 
sulphate ; the  solution  is  filtered  from  the  excess  of  sulphur,  and  the  nearly  colorless 
filtrate  concentrated  for  crystallization. 

In  the  purification  of  illuminating  gas  prepared  from  coal  by  dry  lime,  the  gas-lime 
contains  calcium  carbonate,  thiosulphate,  and  pentasulphide,  and  is  utilized  for  the  man- 
ufacture of  sodium  thiosulphate  by  a process  proposed  by  Graham.  The  gas-lime  is 
exposed  to  the  air  so  as  to  convert  the  sulphide  into  thiosulphate ; 2CaS5  -|-  302  yields 
2CaS203  -f-  3S2.  It  is  then  treated  with  its  weight  of  cold  water,  and  the  filtrate,  which 
contains  the  calcium  thiosulphate,  is  converted  into  the  sodium  salt  by  double  decompo- 
sition with  sodium  carbonate,  whereby  insoluble  calcium  carbonate  is  produced  and 
a solution  of  sodium  thiosulphate  obtained,  which  is  concentrated  and  crystallized ; 
CaS203  -f-  Na2C03  yields  CaC03  + Na2S203.  The  residue  left  in  the  preparation  of  soda, 
called  soda  waste , contains  calcium  sulphide,  and  is  converted  into  sodium  thiosulphate 
by  a process  nearly  identical  with  the  one  just  described.  In  decomposing  calcium  thio- 
sulphate the  sodium  carbonate  may  be  replaced  by  sodium  sulphate,  in  which  case  calcium 
sulphate  is  precipitated. 

Properties. — Sodium  thiosulphate  is  in  large,  transparent,  colorless,  monoclinic 
prisms  or  plates  which  have  the  specific  gravity  1.74,  are  neutral  or  faintly  alkaline,  are 
inodorous,  and  have  a cooling,  bitter,  slightly  alkaline,  and  sulphur- 
ous taste.  It  is  permanent  in  the  air,  but  over  sulphuric  acid  it 
slowly  parts  with  most  of  its  water  of  crystallization  (Letts,  1873), 
and  in  the  atmosphere  begins  to  effloresce  at  about  33°  C.  (91.4°  F.) 

(Pape,  1865).  When  slowly  heated  it  parts  with  all  its  water  of 
crystallization  (36.3  per  cent.)  at  100°  C.  (U.  S.),  but  if  rapidly 
heated  not  below  215°  C.  (419°  F.),  and  at  about  225°  C.  (437°  F.) 
it  is  decomposed,  with  the  separation  of  sulphur  (Pape) ; at  a red 
heat  it  forms  a black  (after  cooling  brown-yellow)  mass  of  sodium 
sulphate  and  polysulphide,  and  a non-luminous  flame  is  colored 
intensely  yellow  by  the  salt.  The  crystallized  salt  dissolves  at  0° 

C.  (32°  F.)  in  .92  part,  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  in  .65  part,  at  20°  C. 

(68°  F.)  in  .50  part  (U.  S.),  and  at  40°  C.  (122°  F.)  in  .25  part  of 
water,  and  readily  forms  supersaturated  solutions  (Kremers,  1856)  ; 
it  is  slowly  soluble  in  oil  of  turpentine,  the  odor  of  the  latter  being  modified  (Edison, 
1876),  but  it  is  insoluble  in  alcohol,  and  is  precipitated  by  the  latter  from  its  concen- 
trated solution  as  an  oily  liquid.  The  aqueous  solution  is  gradually,  or  in  the  presence 
of  free  alkali  more  rapidly,  decomposed,  sulphur  being  deposited,  and  in  the  presence 
of  zinc  and  free  acid  hydrogen  sulphide  is  formed  ; on  acidulating  the  solution  of  the 
salt,  thiosulphuric  acid  is  liberated,  and  at  once  decomposed  into  sulphurous  acid  and 
sulphur,  which  forms  a white  precipitate  (difference  from  sulphites). 

Sodium  thiosulphate  dissolves  chloride,  iodide,  and  other  compounds  of  silver  readily, 
and  is  employed  for  this  purpose  by  photographers,  and  such  a solution  may  be  used  for 
silvering  copper  and  brass.  Iodine  is  decolorized  by  a solution  of  sodium  thiosulphate, 
sodium  iodide  and  tetrathionate  being  formed,  according  to  the  equation  2Na2S203.5II2- 
O -f- 12  = 2NaI  -}-  Na2S406  -f-  10H2O.  This  reaction  affords  a convenient  method  for  the 
estimation  of  iodine,  126.53  parts  of  which  are  decolorized  by  247.64  parts  of  the  thio- 
sulphate. A similar  reaction  takes  place  with  chlorine,  and  makes  the  salt  a useful  and 
cheap  antichlor  for  the  removal  of  chlorine  retained  by  fabrics  and  other  substances  which 
have  been  bleached  by  chlorine.  Sodium  thiosulphate  is  also  a solvent  for  the  insoluble 
salts  of  lead  and  other  metals.  It  affords  a white  precipitate  in  a concentrated  solution 
of  barium  chloride,  which  is  soluble  in  water. 

Impurities. — If  contaminated  with  sodium  sulphate  or  carbonate,  the  dilute  solution 
of  sodium  thiosulphate  produces  a white  precipitate  with  solution  of  barium  chloride. 
“ A solution  of  the  salt  in  80  parts  of  water  should  not  be  rendered  cloudy  by  a few 
drops  of  test-solution  of  barium  chloride  (absence  of  sulphate).  If  to  0.5  Cc.  of  the 


Fig.  289. 


Crystal  of  Sodium  Thio- 
sulphate. 


1472 


SODII  IODIDUM. 


aqueous  solution  (1  in  20)  an  equal  volume  of  hydrogen  sulphide  test-solution  he  added, 
no  coloration  or  turbidity  should  be  perceptible,  either  before  or  after  the  addition  of  1 
Cc.  of  ammonia-water  (absence  of  lead,  iron,  etc.).  The  aqueous  solution  should  not  be 
rendered  turbid  by  the  addition  of  ammonium  oxalate  test-solution  (absence  of  calcium). 
The  aqueous  solution  of  the  salt  (1  in  20)  should  not  be  colored  red  by  a drop  of 
phenolphtalein  test-solution  (absence  of  caustic  alkali  or  carbonate)  ; nor  should  a drop 
of  silver  nitrate  test-solution  produce  a brown  or  black  precipitate  in  5 Cc.  of  this  solu- 
tion (absence  of  sulphide).  If  0.25  Gin.  of  sodium  thiosulphate  be  dissolved  in  10  Cc. 
of  water  and  a few  drops  of  starch  test-solution  added,  it  should  require  at  least  9.9  Cc. 
of  decinormal  iodine  solution  to  produce  a permanent  blue  color  (corresponding  to  at  least 
98.1  per  cent,  of  the  pure  salt).” — U.  S. 

From  the  equation  given  above,  explaining  the  reaction  between  sodium  thiosulphate 
and  iodine,  we  learn  that  495.28  parts  of  the  former  will  decolorize  253.06  parts  of  the 
latter,  and  hence  each  Cc.  of  decinormal  iodine  solution  (containing  0.012653  Grin,  of 
iodine)  so  decolorized  will  represent  0.024764  Gm.  of  crystallized  sodium  thiosulphate, 
or  9.9  Cc.  are  equal  to  0.24525  Gm.,  which  is  98.1  per  cent,  of  0.25  Gm. 

Action  and  Uses. — Sodium  thiosulphate  has  been  largely  employed  for  the  pur- 
pose of  correcting  the  hypothetical  fermentation  to  which  a large  number  of  febrile  and 
other  diseases  has  been  attributed.  But  the  results  of  experience  are  far  from  confirming 
faith  in  the  hypothesis.  The  success  of  the  medicine — in  erysipelas , for  example — is 
equally  great  whether  the  administration  be  internal  or  external;  in  other  words,  its  direct 
action  is  purely  negative,  but  indirectly  it  saves  the  sick  from  heroic  perturbative  treat- 
ment and  allows  the  disease  to  run  its  normal  course  toward  cure.  The  influence  of  the 
medicine  over  the  course  and  issue  of  typhus  and  typhoid  fevers , the  eruptive  fevers , yellow 
fever , diphtheria , and  purident  infection  has  been  loudly  proclaimed,  but  proofs  of  its 
efficacy  are  wanting.  On  the  other  hand,  there  is  some  evidence  in  favor  of  its  utility 
in  intermittent  fever ; and  although  the  natural  tendency  of  this  disease  to  cure  under 
various  circumstances  must  be  admitted,  the  apparently  almost  uniform  curative  influence 
of  the  hyposulphite  cannot  altogether  be  denied. 

A much  more  tangible  evidence  of  its  value  is  furnished  by  its  use  in  the  treatment  of 
dyspepsia — not  that  it  in  the  least  acts  upon  any  of  the  vital  conditions  accompanying 
gastric  disorders,  but  it  effectually  prevents  fermentation  in  the  stomach  and  bowels,  and 
thereby  prevents  acidity  and  flatulence,  with  their  accompanying  distress  and  their 
ulterior  mischievous  effects.  In  like  manner,  this  medicine  may  be  used  to  destroy  the 
products  of  putrefactive  fermentation,  whether  within  the  body  or  not.  It  will  deodorize 
all  putrid  products , either  after  their  discharge  or  while  they  are  still  in  the  stomach, 
rectum,  bladder,  vagina,  uterus,  etc.  It  is  a convenient  and  efficacious  deodorizer  of 
cancerous  ulcers  of  these  parts,  in  a solution  of  1 part  to  2 parts  of  water.  Atomized 
solutions  of  this  and  the  allied  compounds  may  be  inhaled  in  gangrene  of  the  lung , in 
fetid,  bronchitis , etc.  Lancereaux  has  reported  a number  of  cases  of  the  latter  disease 
cured  by  this  medicine,  given  internally  to  the  extent  of  Gm.  4—5  (gr.  lx— lxx)  a day  (Bull 
de  Therap .,  ciii.  433).  The  dyspeptic  fermentation  referred  to  above  is  accompanied  by 
the  rapid  development  of  low  vegetable  organisms,  to  which  the  compounds  of  sulphurous 
acid  are  hostile ; and  this  mode  of  action  has  been  invoked  in  the  local  treatment  of 
sycosis , favus , impetigo , etc.  by  means  of  a solution  of  about  40  grains  of  the  thiosul- 
phate, or,  still  better,  of  the  sodium  sulphite,  in  Gm.  3 Gm.  32  (gr.  xlv)in  an  ounce  of 
water.  A similar  solution  is  useful  as  a lotion  in  prurigo  pudendi.  A saturated  solution 
may  be  used  in  the  proportion  of  about  one-sixth  to  decolorize  tincture  of  iodine,  but 
at  the  expense  of  its  caustic  properties. 

The  dose  of  sodium  thiosulphate  is  Gm.  1 (gr.  xv)  and  upward  in  copious  watery 
solution. 


SODII  IODIDUM,  U.  &.,  Br. — Sodium  Iodide. 

Natrium  iodatum , P.  G. — Iodure  de  sodium , Fr. ; Jodnatrium , G. 

Formula  Nal.  Molecular  weight  149.53. 

Preparation. — This  salt  may  be  obtained  by  processes  analogous  to  those  which 
afford  potassium  iodide  (see  page  1301),  either  from  iodine  and  solution  of  caustic  soda 
or  from  decomposing  a solution  of  iodide  of  iron  with  sodium  carbonate.  The  latter 
process  is  the  more  profitable  one,  since  on  the  reduction  of  sodium  iodate  by  charcoal  a 
portion  of  the  salt  is  converted  into  sodium  carbonate. 

Properties, — When  crystallized  at  a temperature  above  40°  C.  (104°  F-)>  anhydrous 


SOD II  IODIDUM. 


1473 


sodium  iodide  is  obtained  in  cubes  which  are  deliquescent  on  exposure  and  should  there- 
fore be  kept  in  well-stoppered  bottles.  This  salt  melts  at  a dull-red  heat,  and  when  fused 
in  contact  with  the  air  parts  with  a little  iodine,  at  a higher  temperature  volatilizes  slowly, 
but  more  readily  than  the  chloride,  and  on  cooling  congeals  to  a pearly  radiating  crystal- 
line mass.  At  ordinary  temperatures  the  solution  yields  short  monoclinic  prisms  or 
plates  which  have  the  composition  NaI.2H,0  and  the  molecular  weight  185.45,  effloresce 
in  dry  air,  on  exposure  are  deliquescent,  melt  at  a moderate  heat  in  the  water  of  crys- 
tallization, and  become  anhydrous.  The  salt  is  usually  prepared  by  evaporation  to 
dryness  in  the  form  of  a white  crystalline  powder,  which  is  inodorous,  of  a saline  some- 
what sharp  and  bitterish  taste,  and  has  a neutral  or  faint  alkaline  reaction.  According  to 
the  U.  S.  P.,  1 part  of  the  official  salt  dissolves  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  in  .-60  part  of  water,  and 
in  about  3 parts  of  alcohol;  in  0.33  part  of  boiling  water,  and  in  1.4  parts  of  boiling 
alcohol.  The  salt  is  also  soluble  in  glycerin.  It  differs  from  potassium  iodide  in  not 
being  precipitated  from  its  concentrated  aqueous  solution  by  a concentrated  solution  of 
sodium  bitartrate,  and  in  imparting  a yellow  color  to  flame,  which  on  being  observed 
through  a blue  glass  should  not,  or  only  transiently,  appear  red.  On  adding  a little 
chlorine-water  to  the  aqueous  solution  and  agitating  it  with  chloroform  or  carbon  disul- 
phide, these  liquids  will  acquire  a violet  color. 

Tests. — If  the  salt  be  in  distinct  crystals,  only  few  monoclinic  prisms  (containing  2 
molecules  of  water)  should  be  found  among  the  regular  cubes  of  the  anhydrous  salt. 
On  drying  1 Gm.  of  the  salt  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.),  it  should  not  lose  more  than  0.05  Gm. 
in  weight  (absence  of  more  than  5 per  cent,  of  water).  A solution  of  1 Gm.  of  the  salt 
in  1 Cc.  of  water  should  not  yield  any  precipitate  with  1 Cc.  of  sodium  bitartrate  test- 
solution  (limit  of  potassium).  The  aqueous  solution  (1  in  20),  slightly  acidulated  with 
acetic  acid,  should  remain  clear  after  addition  of  ammonium  oxalate  test-solution  (absence 
of  calcium),  or  of  an  equal  volume  of  hydrogen  sulphide  test-solution  (absence  of  arsenic, 
etc.).  Addition  of  ammonium  sulphide  test-solution  should  not  produce  either  a colora- 
tion or  a turbidity  in  the  aqueous  solution  (absence  of  zinc,  iron,  aluminum,  etc.).  If  1 
Gm.  of  the  salt  be  dissolved  in  water,  and  0.05  Cc.  (1  drop)  of  decinormal  oxalic  acid 
solution  be  added,  no  red  color  should  be  produced  by  the  addition  of  a drop  of  phenol- 
phtalein  test-solution  (limit  of  alkali).  No  blue  color  should  appear  in  the  aqueous  solution, 
slightly  acidulated  with  hydrochloric  acid,  on  the  addition  of  potassium  ferrocyanide  test- 
solution  (absence  of  iron).  If  0.5  Gm.  of  the  salt  be  dissolved  in  10  Cc.  of  freshly  boiled 
distilled  water,  and  the  solution  mixed  with  a few  drops  of  starch  test-solution,  no  blue 
color  should  appear  either  at  once  (absence  of  free  iodine),  or  after  addition  of  a drop  of 
diluted  hydrochloric  acid  (absence  of  iodate).  If  5 Cc.  of  the  aqueous  solution  (1  in  20) 
be  acidulated  with  hydrochloric  acid,  and  0.5  Cc.  of  barium  chloride  test-solution  be 
added,  no  immediate  turbidity  should  appear  (limit  of  sulphate).  If  5 Cc.  of  the  aqueous 
solution  be  gently  heated  with  1 drop  of  ferrous  sulphate  test-solution  and  0.5  Cc.  of 
potassium  hydroxide  test-solution,  no  blue  color  should  appear  after  acidulating  the  mixture 
with  hydrochloric  acid  (absence  of  cyanide).  If  1 Gm.  of  the  salt  be  mixed  with  0.5 
Gm.  of  iron  filings  and  0.5  Gm.  of  powdered  zinc,  and  Heated  in  a test-tube  with  5 Cc. 
of  sodium  hydroxide  test-solution,  no  ammoniacal  vapors  should  be  evolved  (absence  of 
nitrate  or  nitrite).  If  0.5  Gm.  of  the  well-dried  salt  be  dissolved  in  10  Cc.  of  water,  and 
2 drops  of  potassium  chromate  test-solution  be  added,  it  should  not  require  more  than 
34.5  Cc.  nor  less  than  33.4  Cc.  of  decinormal  silver  nitrate  solution  to  produce  a perma- 
nent red  color  (corresponding  to  at  least  98  per  cent,  of  the  pure  salt).” TJ.  S. 

In  the  last-mentioned  test  an  allowance  of  1.1  Cc.  is  made  on  account  of  possible  pres- 
ence of  impurities ; if  the  salt  were  absolutely  pure  and  dry,  33.4  Cc.  of  decinormal  silver 
solution  would  practically  suffice  for  complete  precipitation  of  0.5  Gm.  of  the  same.  1 
Gm.  of  the  powdered  and  dried  salt,  when  completely  precipitated  by  silver  nitrate 
yields,  if  perfectly  pure,  1.566  Gm.  of  dry  silver  iodide. 

Action  and  Uses. — Sodium  iodide  contains  a larger  percentage  of  iodine,  and  is  less 
apt  than  potassium  iodide  to  occasion  eruptions  upon  the  skin  and  irritation  of  the  respi- 
ratory and  digestive  mucous  membranes.  According  to  Hudson  ( Lancet , Decern b.,  1883), 
it  is  better  fitted  than  the  potassium  salt  for  all  cases  in  which  the  system  is  already 
much  depressed  (. British  Med.  Jour.,  Apr.  17, 1886).  But,  as  Laborde  has  shown  (Bull 
de  l Academic  de  Med.,  1890,  p.  303),  it  exerts,  compared  with  potassium  iodide,  a very 
teeble  action  upon  the  central  nervous  system  and  the  capillary  blood-vessels.  Bichard- 
son  ( Asclepiad , iv.  52)  recommends  it  in  syphilis,  chronic  eczema , and,  associated  with 
arsenic  in  lepra  and  psoriasis.  It  is  said  to  be  an  antiseptic  and  stimulant  for  foul  sores 
with  fetor.  J 


1474 


SOD II  NITRAS. 


SODII  NITRAS,  U.  S.,  Br.— Sodium  Nitrate. 

Sodse  nitras , Br. ; Natrium  nitricum , P.  G. ; Nitras  (Azotus)  sodicus,  Nitrum  cubicum. 
— Cubic  nitre , E. ; Azotate  ( Nitrate ) de  soude , Nitre  cubique , Nitrate  de  Chili , Fr. ; Aa- 
triumnitrat,  Chilisalpeter,  Gr. 

Formula  NaN03.  Molecular  weight  84.89. 

A native  salt,  purified  by  crystallization  from  water. 

Origin  and  Preparation. — Sodium  nitrate  was  first  observed  by  Bohn  (1683)  on 
distilling  a mixture  of  table-salt  and  nitric  acid,  and  was  prepared  by  Marggraf  (1761) 
from  calcium  nitrate  and  sodium  sulphate.  In  1820  it  became  known  through  Mariano 
de  Rivero  that  it  exists  in  immense  quantities  in  certain  districts  of  Chili  and  Peru,  where 
it  is  imbedded  in  clay  and  sand  and  more  or  less  mixed  with  sulphates  and  chlorides  of 
sodium,  calcium,  and  magnesium.  The  stratum  containing  this  saline  mass,  which  is 
called  caleche  or  terra  salitrosa , is  blasted,  the  salt  extracted  by  boiling  with  water,  and 
the  decanted  solution  crystallized.  In  this  condition  sodium  nitrate  is  brought  into  the 
market  in  damp  crystalline  masses,  which  are  more  or  less  colored  by  intermixed  earth  and 
require  to  be  purified  by  recrystallization.  Previous  to  1879  the  United  States  imported 
about  50,000,000  pounds,  but  184,598,857  pounds  in  1882. 

Properties. — Purified  sodium  nitrate  crystallizes  in  colorless,  transparent  rhombo- 
hedrons  of  the  hexagonal  system,  which  are  permanent  in  dry  air,  slightly  deliquescent 
on  exposure,  having  a neutral  reaction,  and  dissolve  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  in  1.3  parts  of 
water  and  in  about  100  parts  of  alcohol,  in  6.6  parts  of  boiling  water,  and  in  40  parts 
of  boiling  alcohol.  When  heated  at  312°  C.  (593.6°  F.),  the  salt  melts  without  decompo- 
sition. At  a higher  temperature  it  evolves  oxygen,  and  is  reduced  to  nitrite.  On  red- 
hot  charcoal  it  deflagrates.  To  a non-luminous  flame  it  imparts  an 
intensely  yellow  color.  The  aqueous  solution  is  neutral  to  litmus- 
paper.  If  the  aqueous  solution  be  mixed  in  a test-tube  with  a drop 
of  diphenylamine  test-solution,  and  sulphuric  acid  be  carefully  poured 
in,  so  as  to  form  a separate  layer,  a deep  blue  color  will  appear  at 
the  zone  of  contact. 

The  salt  is  inodorous  and  has  a cooling,  saline,  and  somewhat  bitter 
taste. 

Tests. — The  aqueous  solution  (5  per  cent.)  should  remain  unaf- 
fected by  hydrogen  sulphide  and  ammonium  sulphide  (absence  of 
metals),  also  by  sodium  carbonate  (alkaline  earths),  by  ammonium 
oxalate  (calcium),  by  a saturated  solution  of  sodium  bitartrate  (potas- 
sium), by  barium  nitrate  (sulphate),  or  by  silver  nitrate  (chloride  or 
iodide).  The  U.  S.  P.  and  P.  G.  permit  the  presence  of  a minute 
trace  of  sulphate  and  of  chloride.  “ A solution  of  0.5  Gm.  of  the  salt  in  1 Cc.  of  water 
should  not  be  precipitated  or  rendered  turbid  by  1 Cc.  of  sodium  bitartrate  test-solution 
(limit  of  potassium).  If  the  aqueous  solution  be  mixed  with  a few  drops  each  of  hydro- 
gen sulphide  test-solution  and  of  starch  test-solution,  and  then  some  chlorine-water  poured 
carefully  upon  the  mixture,  no  blue  color  should  appear  at  the  line  of  contact  (absence 
of  iodate  and  iodide).  No  turbidity  should  be  produced  within  five  minutes  in  the 
aqueous  solution,  acidulated  with  nitric  acid,  on  the  addition  of  either  barium  chloride 
test-solution  (limit  of  sulphate)  or  silver  nitrate  test-solution  (limit  of  chloride)/’ — 
US.  1 Gm.  of  the  salt,  treated  with  an  excess  (or  about  1 Cc.)  of  sulphuric  acid  and 
afterward  heated  to  redness  until  vapors  cease  to  be  given  off,  yields  a residue  weighing 
.835  Gm. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Sodium  nitrate  is  used  in  preparing  nitric  acid  and 
sodium  arsenate. 

Action  and  Uses. — Sodium  nitrate,  in  moderate  doses,  according  to  experimental 
investigations  of  its  action,  does  not  directly  lessen  the  force  or  frequency  of  the  pulse, 
nor  lower  the  animal  temperature,  nor  increase  the  elimination  of  urea.  In  laige  doses, 
acting  as  a purgative,  it  may  produce  these  effects.  Loftier  states  that  in  such  doses  its 
action  resembles  that  of  potassium  nitrate.  Daily  doses  of  from  18  to  90  grains,  taken  by 
several  young  men  in  from  eight  to  fourteen  days,  occasioned  pallor,  emaciation,  debility, 
unsteadiness  of  mind,  and  a decline  in  the  pulse’s  force  and  frequency.  The  digestion 
was  unimpaired,  as  were  also  the  appetite  and  defecation.  It  is  said  that  in  animals  very 
large  doses  also  cause  great  debility  and  death,  without,  however,  depressing  the  heart  or 
lowering  the  temperature.  Its  solution  dissolves  false  membranes.  It  has  hence  been 


Fig.  290. 


Crystal  of  Sodium 
Nitrate. 


SODII  JSITRIS. 


1475 


used  with  the  atomizer  to  diminish  fibrinous  exudations  in  the  pharynx  and  larynx.  It 
is  somewhat  diuretic,  but  its  chief  medicinal  virtue  is  that  of  a mild  purgative,  and  it  has 
been  used  with  advantage  in  diarrhoea  and  in  dysentery.  For  these  purposes  it  may  be 
given  in  daily  doses  of  Gm.  32-64  (1  or  2 ounces),  dissolved  in  a large  quantity  of  water. 

SODII  NITRIS,  XJ.  S.,  Br.  Add.— Sodium  Nitrite. 

Nitrite  de  soude , Fr. ; Salpetrigsaures  Natron , G. 

Formula  NaN02.  Molecular  weight  68.93. 

Preparation. — When  sodium  nitrate  is  heated  with  charcoal,  starch,  or  similar  sub- 
stances, sodium  nitrite  is  formed,  and  may  be  recovered  by  lixiviation  of  the  mass  with 
water.  A better  process  consists  in  adding  to  sodium  nitrate,  previously  fused  in  shallow 
iron  pans,  about  two  and  a half  times  its  weight  of  lead,  free  from  zinc  and  antimony  (in 
form  of  thin  sheets  reduction  takes  place  immediately),  the  lead  fusing  readily  and 
being  converted  into  yellow  oxide  or  litharge.  An  excess  of  lead  is  used,  and  the  fused 
mass  is  kept  in  constant  agitation  for  about  an  hour  ; the  fusion  is  continued  for  three 
and  a half  hours.  After  cooling  the  mass  is  lixiviated  with  water  in  large  iron  tanks, 
and  when  the  solution  has  reached  the  specific  gravity  1.342,  it  is  treated  with  nitric  acid 
sp.  grav.  1.029,  and  then  concentrated  to  1.414  specific  gravity,  clarified  by  rest,  and 
set  aside  in  lead-lined  wooden  tanks  to  crystallize.  By  repeated  recrystallization  the 
salt  is  obtained  quite  pure  (98  per  cent,  and  over). 

Properties. — Sodium  nitrite  occurs  in  the  form  of  white  opaque  pencils  or  colorless, 
transparent,  hexagonal  crystals,  odorless,  and  having  a mild  saline  taste.  When  exposed 
to  the  air  the  salt  deliquesces,  and  is  gradually  oxidized  to  sodium  nitrate  ; hence  it  should 
be  kept  in  well-stoppered  bottles.  It  is  soluble  in  about  1.5  parts  of  water  at  15°  C.  (59° 
F.),  and  very  soluble  in  boiling  water;  slightly  soluble  in  alcohol.  The  aqueous  solution 
gives  an  alkaline  reaction  with  litmus-paper,  and  when  mixed  with  solution  of  ferrous 
sulphate  and  acetic  acid  becomes  of  a dark-brown  color.  If  the  aqueous  solution  of  the 
salt  be  mixed  with  some  potassium  iodide  test-solution  and  a few  drops  of  an  acid  added, 
iodine  will  be  liberated,  and  nitrogen  dioxide  gas  will  escape  with  effervescence.  When 
heated  the  salt  melts,  and  at  a red  heat  it  is  decomposed,  yielding  oxygen,  nitrogen, 
nitrogen  dioxide,  and  sodium  oxide.  To  a non-luminous  flame  it  imparts  an  intensely 
yellow  color. 

Tests. — The  salt  should  readily  form  a colorless  solution  with  water,  without  leaving 
any  insoluble  residue.  “ If  1 drop  of  hydrochloric  acid  and  a few  drops  of  starch  test- 
solution  be  added  to  5 Cc.  of  the  aqueous  solution,  no  blue  coloration  should  appear 
(absence  of  iodide).  If  5 Cc.  of  the  aqueous  solution  be  mixed  with  an  equal  volume 
of  hydrogen  sulphide  test-solution,  no  coloration  or  precipitate  should  be  produced 
(absence  of  lead,  arsenic,  copper,  etc.).  If  0.15  Gm.  of  sodium  nitrite  be  dissolved  in 
5 Cc.  of  water,  and  introduced  into  a nitrometer,  together  with  a solution  of  1 Gm.  of 
potassium  iodide  in  6 Cc.  of  water  and  15  Cc.  of  normal  sulphuric  acid,  the  liberated 
nitrogen  dioxide  gas  should  measure  not  less  than  50  Cc.  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  or  51.7 
Cc.  at  25°  C.  (77°  F.),  corresponding  to  not  less  than  97.6  per  cent,  of  pure  salt.” — U.  S. 

From  the  following  equation,  NaN02+  KI  -j-  2H2S04=  NO  -f- 1 -f-  NaHS04-f-  KHS04 
-f-  H20,  we  learn  that  68.93  Gm.  of  sodium  nitrite  will  yield  29.97  Gm.  of  nitric  oxide ; 
since  1 Cc.  of  NO  gas  at  25°  C.  (77°  F.)  weighs  0.0012297  Gm.  and  is  equal  to 
0.0028283  Gm.  of  NaN02,  it  will  require  51.7  Cc.  of  gas  to  show  97.6  per  cent,  of 
absolute  NaN02  if  0.15  Gm.  of  the  salt  be  used  in  the  test.  97.6  per  cent,  of  0.15  = 
0.1464  and  0.1464  -h  0.0028283  = 51.7.  The  Br.  Ph.  demands  not  less  than  95  per  cent, 
of  absolute  sodium  nitrite.  If  0.1  Gm.  of  the  salt  be  used  in  the  test,  not  less  than 
33.5  Cc.  of  NO  gas  should  be  liberated  at  25°  C.  (77°  F.). 

Action  and  Uses. — Sodium  nitrite  is  analogous  in  its  action  to  nitro-glycerin 
and  amyl  nitrite,  but  it  is  milder  and  more  uniform  than  that  of  either.  The  experiments 
of  Barth,  of  Jolyet,  of  Regnard,  of  Ringer  and  Murrell,  and  of  Huchard  (Bull,  et  Mem. 
de  la  Soc.  de  Therap .,  Dec.  1883,  p.  207),  performed  on  guinea-pigs,  cats,  etc.,  showed 
that  this  nitrite,  like  its  congeners,  produces  general  sedation,  torpor,  and  muscular 
paresis,  slowing  of  the  heart,  cyanosis,  asphyxia  and  hurried  breathing,  and  paralysis, 
and  that  after  death  the  heart  and  lungs  are  gorged  with  black  or  chocolate-colored 
blood.  Gamgee  and  Ilenocque  inferred  that  it  tends  to  prevent  oxidation  of  the 
blood  in  the  lungs  by  opposing  the  separation  of  the  oxygen  already  combined  with 
its  constituents.  Binz  observed  phenomena  similar  to  those  just  enumerated,  and, 
in  addition,  dilated  pupils,  salivation,  vomiting,  and  diarrhoea  ( Archiv  fur  Path.  u.  Pharm ., 


1476 


SODII  PHOSPHAS. 


xiii.  133).  One  or  two  minutes  after  a dose  of  from  Gm.  0.2-0. 6 (3  to  6 gr.)  the  pulse 
grew  more  frequent,  and  continued  so  for  several  hours ; the  face  was  warm  and  some- 
what flushed  ; and  slight  fulness  of  the  head  was  observed,  with  throbbing  of  the  temporal 
arteries  (Hay,  Lublinski).  Larger  doses  intensified  these  effects  ( Practitioner , xxx.  179). 
When  first  employed  excessive  doses  of  it  were  used.  Ramskill  and  Rolfe  have  placed 
on  record  six  cases  in  which  it  induced  lividity  and  collapse  ; and  Ringer  and  Mur- 
rell administered  it  to  eighteen  adults  in  10-grain  doses,  and  all  but  one  “avowed 
that  they  would  expect  to  drop  down  dead  if  they  ever  took  another  dose.”  Very 
nearly  the  same  effects  ensued  in  sixteen  cases  in  which  5-grain  doses  were  given,  and 
even  3-grain  doses  of  it  caused  unpleasant  symptoms  in  four  out  of  thirteen  patients 
(Times  and  Gaz .,  Nov.  1883,  p.  549).  In  two  cases  were  taken  by  mistake  about  Gm. 
12  (^iij)  in  the  one,  and  Gm.  6 (giss)  in  the  other.  Vomiting  and  diarrhoea  ensued,  with 
faintness,  cyanosis,  and  diuresis.  Coffee  was  used  successfully  to  counteract  the  symp- 
toms ( Therap . Monatsh .,  iv.  52).  According  to  Binz,  it  is  unfit  for  practical  use,  owing 
to  its  decomposing  action  upon  the  blood  ( Therap . Monatsh .,  iv.  137).  Owing  to  ignor- 
ance of  the  potency  of  the  compound,  it  was  at  first  given  in  doses  of  20  grains,  but 
after  its  dangers  became  known  the  dose  was  reduced  to  2 grains  ( Times  and  Ga.z., 
Dec.  1883,  p.  636). 

Hay  first  prescribed  this  medicine  in  a well-marked  case  of  angina  pectoris  associated 
with  defective  aortic  valves.  In  doses  of  2 or  3 grains  it  relieved  the  patient  without 
occasioning  any  characteristic  physiological  effects.  Subsequently  his  observations  were 
fully  confirmed,  and  it  was  found  that  the  medicine  relieved  the  symptoms,  pain  and 
spasm,  without  a definite  relation  to  the  organic  causes  producing  them.  In  general 
terms,  it  seemed  to  be  more  useful  in  such  cases  as  digitalis  is  wont  to  benefit,  including 
degeneration  of  the  heart-muscle,  certain  valvular  lesions,  and  even  impaired  innervation. 
In  purely  nervous  asthma  it  acts  most  favorably,  but  it  is  also  a useful  palliative  of 
dyspnoea  due  to  pulmonary  obstruction,  at  least  of  a transient  nature.  It  does  not 
appear  to  modify  directly  the  bronchial  secretions,  but,  as  Fraser  pointed  out  ( Amer . 
Jour.  Med.  Sci.,  xcv.  122),  it  may  diminish  them  by  lessening  pulmonary  congestion. 
In  emphysema  of  the  lungs  its  usefulness  is  of  course  limited  to  a palliation  of  the  asth- 
matic paroxysms,  so  far  as  a nervous  element  is  involved  in  them.  Lublinski  has  com- 
mended this  medicine  in  hemicrania  and  other  forms  of  headache  associated  with  anaemia. 
In  1882,  Law  proposed  sodium  nitrite  for  the  treatment  of  epilepsy , and  found  it  very 
useful  in  a single  case  ( Practitioner , xxviii.  420).  Shortly  afterward  Ralfe  reported  the 
results  of  the  treatment  in  seventeen  cases  (Med.  Times  and  Gaz.,  Dec.  2,  1882,  p.  707). 
The  dose,  according  to  him,  should  just  fall  short  of  producing  its  physiological  effects. 
His  conclusions  were — 1.  That  cases  in  which  the  bromides  did  good  were  not  apt  to  be 
benefited  by  the  nitrite,  and  vice  versa.  2.  When  the  bromides  begin  to  lose  their  effect 
or  cause  bromism,  sodium  nitrite  is  useful  as  a substitute.  3.  It  seemed  to  be  especially 
useful  in  minor  seizures  and  in  convulsive  attacks  occurring  at  night.  Lublinski  and 
others  have  hardly  corroborated  these  conclusions.  Granville  found  it  useful  in  epilepti- 
form convulsions  supposed  to  be  of  gouty  origin.  The  dose  of  sodium  nitrite  should  not 
at  first  exceed  Gm.  0.12  (gr.  ij),  repeated  at  longer  or  shorter  intervals  and  gradually 
increased.  Fraser  claims  for  this  salt  a superiority  over  other  nitrites,  because  it  is 
freely  soluble  and  does  not  undergo  decomposition  in  water.  As  it  is  liable  to  be  decom- 
posed by  the  gastric  acids,  he  suggests  its  administration  in  an  alkaline  solution. 

SODII  PHOSPHAS,  U.  S.,  Br.— Sodium  Phosphate. 

Sodse  phosplias , Br. ; Natrium  p hosphoricum , P.  G.  ; Phosphas  sodicus  (natricus). — 
Sodium  orthophosphate , Disodium  hydrogen  phosphate , E.  ; Phosphate  de  sonde,  Fr. ; 
Natriumphosphat , Phosphorsaures  Natron , G. 

Formula  Na2HP04.12H20.  Molecular  weight  357.52. 

Origin. — Sodium  phosphate  exists  in  the  urine  of  carnivorous  animals  and  in  other 
animal  liquids.  It  was  probably  known  to  the  ancients,  since  the  chrysocolla  used  for  sol- 
dering (see  Sodii  Boras)  was  at  least  partly  obtained  from  urine.  Hellot  (1735)  recog- 
nized it  as  distinct  from  the  ammoniacal  salts  of  urine,  and  Haupt  (1740)  named  it  sal 
mirabile  perlatum,  because  it  melts  before  the  blowpipe  to  an  opaque  pearly  bead.  Proust 
(1775)  stated  it  to  be  a compound  of  soda,  and  Klaproth  and  Scheele  (1785)  proved  also 
the  presence  of  phosphoric  acid.  The  salt  was  employed  medicinally  by  Pearson  (1787), 
and  was  usually  prepared  by  neutralizing  phosphoric  acid  with  sodium  carbonate  ; but  at 
present  it  is  exclusively  prepared  from  bone  phosphate. 


SOD II  PIIOSPHAS. 


1477 


Preparation. — Take  of  Bone-ash,  in  powder,  10  pounds ; Sulphuric  Acid  5G  fluid- 
ounces  , Distilled  Water  4£  gallons  or  a sufficiency  ; Sodium  Carbonate  10  pounds  or  a 
sufficiency.  Place  the  bone-ash  in  a capacious  earthenware  or  leaden  vessel,  pour  on  the 
sulphuric  acid,  and  stir  with  a glass  rod  until  the  whole  powder  is  thoroughly  moistened. 
After  twenty-four  hours  add  gradually  and  with  constant  stirring  a gallon  of  the  water ; 
digest  for  forty-eight  hours,  adding  distilled  water  from  time  to  time  to  replace  what  has 
evaporated.  Add  another  gallon  of  the  water,  stirring  diligently,  digest  for  an  hour,  filter 
through  calico,  and  wash  what  remains  on  the  filter  with  successive  portions  of  distilled 
water  till  it  has  almost  ceased  to  have  an  acid  reaction.  Concentrate  the  filtrate  to  a gal- 
lon, let  it  rest  for  twenty-four  hours,  and  filter  again.  Heat  the  filtrate  to  near  the  boil- 
ing-point, add  the  sodium  carbonate,  previously  dissolved  in  2 gallons  of  the  water,  till  it 
ceases  to  form  a precipitate  and  the  fluid  has  acquired  a feeble  alkaline  reaction.  Filter 
through  calico,  evaporate  the  clear  liquor  till  a film  forms  on  the  surface,  and  set  it  aside 
to  crystallize.  More  crystals  will  be  obtained  by  evaporating  the  mother-liquor,  a little 
carbonate  of  soda  being  added  if  necessary  to  maintain  its  alkalinity.  Dry  the  crystals 
rapidly  and  without  heat  on  filtering-paper  placed  on  porous  bricks,  and  preserve  them  in 
bottles. — Br.  1867. 

The  inorganic  matter  of  bones  consists  of  tricalcium  phosphate,  which  is  decomposed 
by  sulphuric  acid,  with  the  formation  of  calcium  sulphate  and  acid  phosphate,  according 
to  the  equation  Ca3(P04)2  + 2H2S04  = 2CaS04  + CaH4(P04)2.  The  decomposition  is 
known  to  be  completed  when  the  mixture  is  uniformly  smooth  and  free  from  grittiness. 
On  being  treated  with  water  the  freely-soluble  acid  calcium  phosphate  enters  into  solu- 
tion. together  with  a small  quantity  of  calcium  sulphate  and  any  excess  of  sulphuric  acid 
which  may  have  been  employed.  On  adding  sodium  carbonate  to  the  solution,  the  cal- 
cium salt  is  decomposed,  one-half  the  phosphoric  acid  forming  insoluble  calcium  phosphate, 
while  the  other  half  unites  with  the  sodium  of  the  sodium  carbonate,  forming  disodium 
phosphate,  liberating  carbon  dioxide,  and  producing  water  ; CaH4(P04)2  + Na2C03  yields 
CaHP04  -j-'  Na2HP04  + C02  H20.  The  filtrate  from  the  calcium  phosphate  contains 

the  sodium  salts  of  phosphoric,  sulphuric,  and  carbonic  acids,  of  which  the  last  two  should 
be  present  in  small  quantity  only,  and  requires  to  be  evaporated  to  crystallization.  If 
sulphuric  acid  and  sodium  carbonate  have  not  been  used  too  largely  in  excess,  the  first 
crop  or  two  of  crystals  will  be  pure  sodium  phosphate,  but  those  subsequently  obtained 
are  usually  contaminated  with  carbonate  and  sulphate,  and  should  be  purified  by  recrys- 
tallization from  water.  100  parts  of  calcined  bones  require  from  60  to  70  parts  of  con- 
centrated sulphuric  acid  and  from  100  to  110  parts  of  crystallized  sodium  carbonate,  and 
yield  between  100  and  105  parts  of  crystallized  sodium  phosphate. 

Properties. — This  salt  crystallizes  in  colorless,  transparent,  obliquely  four-sided, 
monoclinic  prisms,  which  have  the  specific  gravity  1.55,  react  slightly  alkaline  upon  lit- 
mus-paper (not  phenolphtalein  paper),  are  inodorous,  and  have  a cooling  saline  taste. 
The  crystals  effloresce  rapidly  in  air,  gradually  losing  5 molecules  of  their  water  of  crys- 
tallization (25.1  per  cent.)  ; they  melt  to  a colorless  liquid  when  heated  to  35°  C.  (95°  F.) 
(Kopp),  40°  C.  (104°  F.)  ( V. \ S.,  P.  6r.),  and  congeal  on  cooling  to  a crystalline  mass.  At 
100°  C.  (212°  F.),  they  part  with  all  their  water  of  crystallization,  amounting  to  60.3  per 
cent.,  and  are  converted  into  a white  saline  mass.  Above  300°  C.  (572°  F.)  the  basylous 
water  is  expelled  and  sodium  pyrophosphate  is  left.  Crystallized  sodium  phosphate 
requires  for  solution  5.8  parts  of  water  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  and  less  than  1.5  parts  of 
boiling  water  (£7  $.,  P.  6r.).  according  to  Mulder  (1864), 

at  0°  10°  15°  30°  40°  60°  80°  99°  105°  C., 

24.12  15.5  10.4  2.5  .95  .66  .625  .611  .731  parts  of  water. 

The  solution,  saturated  at  a higher  temperature,  deposits  near  35°  C.  (95°  F.)  transparent 
crystals,  which  contain  only  47  per  cent,  of  water  of  crystallization  and  have  the  formula 
Na2IIP04.7H20.  Sodium  phosphate  is  insoluble  in  alcohol,  and  imparts  a yellow  color 
to  flame,  which,  if  observed  through  a blue  glass,  is  not  red,  or  only  transiently  so.  The 
aqueous  solution  gives  with  silver  nitrate  a yellow  precipitate  soluble  in  nitric  acid  and  in 
ammonia  ; with  test-mixture  of  magnesium,  a white  precipitate  soluble  in  acetic  acid  ; and 
with  ferric  chloride,  a white  precipitate  insoluble  in  acetic  acid.  If  0.5  Cc.  of  the  aque- 
ous solution  be  mixed  with  1 Cc.  of  ammonium  molybdate  test-solution,  the  mixture 
will  at  once  assume  a yellow  color,  and,  after  a few  minutes,  yield  a yellow  precipitate, 
the  appearance  of  which  is  hastened  by  a gentle  heat. 

Tests. — “ No  residue  should  be  left  on  dissolving  the  salt  in  water  (absence  of  calcium, 
etc.).  No  turbidity  or  coloration  should  be  produced  in  the  aqueous  solution  by  the 


1478 


SODII  PHOSPHAS. 


addition  of  a small  quantity  of  ammonium  sulphide  test-solution,  or  of  an  equal  volume 
of  hydrogen  sulphide  test-solution  after  addition  of  a few  drops  of  hydrochloric  acid 
(absence  of  metallic  impurities).  If  1 Gm.  of  the  powdered  salt  be  shaken  with  3 Cc.  of 
stannous  chloride  test-solution,  then  a small  piece  of  pure  tin-foil  added,  and  a gentle  heat 
applied,  no  brown  coloration  should  appear  within  fifteen  minutes  (limit  of  arsenic).  If 
0.5  Gm.  of  the  salt  be  dissolved  in  4 Cc.  of  water,  and  1 Cc.  of  sodium  bitartrate  test- 
solution  then  added,  the  solution  should  remain  perfectly  clear  (limit  of  potassium).  No 
effervescence  should  occur  on  the  addition  of  hydrochloric  or  nitric  acid  to  a solution 
of  the  salt  (absence  of  carbonate).  On  adding  to  5 Cc.  of  the  aqueous  solution  (1  in  20) 
0.5  Cc.  of  silver  nitrate  test-solution,  a pure  yellow  precipitate  will  be  formed,  which 
should  not  become  dark-colored  by  heating  (absence  of  thiosulphate,  etc.),  and  which, 
upon  addition  of  nitric  acid,  should  yield  a perfectly  clear,  or,  at  most,  only  very  slightly 
opalescent  liquid  (limit  of  chloride).  If  to  5 Cc.  of  the  aqueous  solution,  acidulated  with 
hydrochloric  acid,  0.5  Cc.  of  barium  chloride  test-solution  be  added,  the  solution  should 
not  be  rendered  more  than  very  slightly  opalescent  (limit  of  sulphate).” — U.  S. 

Composition. — The  official  salt  is  disodic  orthophosphate  or  disodium  hydrogen 
phosphate,  and  represents,  in  100  parts,  19.9  parts  of  P205,  17.3  parts  of  Na20,  2.5  parts 
of  basylous  H20,  and  60.3  parts  of  water  of  crystallization. 

Sodii  phosphas  epferyescens,  Br.  Add.,  Effervescent  sodium  phosphate. — Dry  25 
ounces  of  crystallized  sodium  phosphate  until  it  has  lost  60  per  cent,  of  its  weight ; pow- 
der the  product,  and  mix  with  sodium  bicarbonate  25  ounces,  tartaric  acid,  in  powder, 
13J  ounces,  and  citric  acid,  in  powder,  9 ounces.  Place  the  mixture  in  a dish  heated  to 
93.3°-104.4°  C.  (200°-220°  F.),  and  when  the  particles  of  the  powder  begin  to  aggre- 
gate, stir  them  assiduously  until  they  assume  a granular  form  ; by  means  of  sieves  sepa- 
rate the  granules  of  uniform  size,  and  preserve  in  well-closed  bottles.  The  final  product 
should  weigh  about  50  ounces. 

Allied  Salts. — Sodii  et  ammonii  phosphas,  NH4NaIIP04.4II20  (mol.  weight  208.65).  This  is 
the  microcosmic  salt  of  the  alchemists,  and  was  formerly  prepared  from  urine.  It  is  obtained  by 
dissolving  5 parts  of  crystallized  sodium  phosphate  and  2 parts  of  ammonium  phosphate  in  20 
parts  of  hot  water,  adding  a little  ammonia  until  the  liquid  is  alkaline,  and  crystallizing.  The 
salt  crystallizes  in  colorless,  transparent,  monoclinic  prisms  which  are  inodorous  and  have  a cool- 
ling  saline  taste,  and  a neutral  or  faint  alkaline  reaction.  It  effloresces  superficially  on  exposure, 
losing  a little  ammonia,  melts  readily  to  a colorless  liquid  in  its  water  of  crystallization,  and  at  a 
red  heat  forms  a colorless  glass  of  sodium  metaphosphate,  which  is  used  in  blowpipe  analysis. 

Potassii  phosphas,  Potassium  phosphate , K2HP04  (mol.  weight  173.86).  This  may  be  obtained 
from  calcined  bones  in  precisely  the  same  manner  as  sodium  phosphate,  only  substituting  in  the 
process  potassium  carbonate  for  sodium  carbonate,  or  by  adding  potassium  carbonate  to  dilute 
phosphoric  acid  until  the  liquid  has  a slight  alkaline  reaction,  and  by  evaporating.  The  so- 
called  neutral  potassium  phosphate  or  dipotassium  orthophosphate  is  with  difficulty  obtained  in 
irregular  crystals  •,  usually  it  is  a white  amorphous  or  crystalline  mass,  of  a saline  taste,  deli- 
quescent in  the  air,  and  freely  soluble  in  water.  On  the  application  of  heat  it  melts,  and  at  a 
red  heat  is  converted  into  potassium  pyrophosphate,  which  is  likewise  very  deliquescent.  When 
dissolved  in  water  it  yields  with  silver  nitrate  a yellow  precipitate  soluble  in  nitric  acid,  and  with 
sodium  bitartrate  a white  crystalline  precipitate  of  cream  of  tartar.  Both  the  mono-  and  tri- 
potassium orthophosphates  crystallize  more  readily  than  the  preceding  salt,  and  are  easily  soluble 
in  water. 

Action  and  Uses. — Sodium  phosphate  in  solution  injected  into  the  veins  is  almost 
entirely  eliminated  with  the  urine.  Taken  internally,  it  is  said  to  diminish  the  discharge 
of  sodium  chloride  by  the  kidneys  and  to  increase  the  excretion  of  uric  acid.  According 
to  Rutherford  and  Vignal,  it  is  a hepatic  stimulant.  A special  power  of  dissolving,  or  of 
causing  the  discharge  of,  gall-stones  has  been  attributed  to  this  medicine,  but  without 
convincing  testimony  to  establish  it ; and  Prevost  and  Binet  declare  it  to  be  without  action 
upon  the  biliary  secretion  ( Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  Nov.  1888,  p.  439).  It  has  a 
cooling,  saline,  but  not  disagreeable  taste,  and  has  been  used  upon  theoretical  grounds  as  a 
remedy  for  scrofula , rachitis,  diabetes,  etc.,  but  without  encouraging  results.  Luton,  how- 
ever, claims  that  it  rapidly  and  effectually  cures  those  cases  of  scrofidous  ophthalmia 
which  are  remarkable  for  lachrymation,  photophobia,  ulceration  of  the  cornea,  and  asso- 
ciated impetiginous  eruptions.  In  such  cases  from  Gm.  3-5  (40  to  70  grains)  must  be  given 
daily  in  divided  doses  ( Etudes  de  Therap.,  p.  387).  It  has  been  much  recommended  in  the 
bowel  complaints  of  children,  for  which  its  mild  purgative  action  renders  it  well  adapted 
when  the  use  of  purgatives  of  any  sort  is  indicated.  It  is  said,  however,  to  be  most 
suitable  for  the  diarrhoeas  which  are  apt  to  occur  at  the  period  of  weaning.  It  has  been 
used  with  alleged  success  in  correcting  the  acidity  of  the  uterine  and  vaginal  secretions, 
which  was  supposed  to  destroy  the  spermatozoa  after  copulation.  It  was  employed  in 


SOD  II  PYR  0 PH  OS  PH  A S. — S ODII  SALICYLAS. 


1479 


injection  before  the  act,  and  a course  of  alkaline  mineral  waters  was  at  the  same  time 
prescribed  (Charrier,  Bull,  de  Therap .,  xcviii.  492).  Its  purgative  dose  for  an  adult  is 
about  Gm.  32  (^j);  for  children  affected  with  diarrhoea  the  dose  should  be  small,  from 
Gm.  0.20-0.60  (gr.  iij-x),  and  may  conveniently  be  given  in  milk  and  water. 

SODII  PYROPHOSPHAS,  U.  S. — Sodium  Pyrophosphate.. 

Natrium  pyrophosphoricum , Pyrophosplias  sodicus. — Pyrophosphate  de  soude , Fr. ; Na- 
triumpyrophosphat,  G. 

Formula  Na4P2O7.10H2O.  Molecular  weight  445.24. 

Preparation. — 10  ounces  of  crystallized  sodium  phosphate  are  exposed  to  a warm 
atmosphere  until  effloresced,  and  then  heated  to  dull  redness  until  a small  portion  of  the 
mass,  dissolved  in  water,  causes  with  silver  nitrate  a white  precipitate  free  from  yellow 
tint.  The  white  salt  is  dissolved  in  5 pints  of  boiling  water  and  the  solution  filtered  if 
necessary  and  crystallized.  The  total  yield  will  be  6 ounces. 

When  sodium  phosphate  is  heated  to  a gradually  increased  temperature,  it  first  under- 
goes fusion  at  about  44°  C.  (111.2°  F.)  , at  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  loses  all  of  its  water  of 
crystallization  (60.31  per  cent.)  and  finally  at  300°  C.  (572°  F.)  is  converted  into  sodium 
pyrophosphate,  two  molecules  of  the  official  phosphate  yielding  one  molecule  of  anhy- 
drous pyrophosphate,  thus  2Na2HP04.12H20  — Na4P207  -j-  13H20. 

Properties. — The  salt  crystallizes  in  colorless  or  whitish  transparent  or  translucent 
monoclinic  prisms  or  plates  which  are  inodorous  and  have  a cooling  saline  and  feebly 
alkaline  taste.  It  is  permanent  in  cool  air,  slightly  efflorescent  in  warm  air.  Soluble 
in  12  parts  of  water  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  and  in  1.1  parts  of  boiling  water;  insoluble  in 
alcohol.  When  heated  to  100°  C.  (212°  F.),  the  salt  loses  its  water  of  crystallization 
(40.34  per  cent.)  without  previous  fusion.  At  a higher  temperature  it  fuses,  forming  a 
transparent  liquid,  which,  on  cooling,  solidifies  to  a crystalline  mass.  To  a non-luminous 
flame  it  imparts  an  intensely  yellow  color.  Its  aqueous  solution  is  feebly  alkaline  to 
litmus  and  to  phenolphtalein  paper.  A 5-per-cent,  aqueous  solution  of  the  salt  yields, 
with  magnesia  mixture,  a white  precipitate  ; with  silver  nitrate  test-solution  it  yields  a 
precipitate  of  a pure  white  color  (distinction  from  orthophosphate),  soluble  in  ammonia- 
water  and  in  nitric  acid.  With  ammonium  molybdate  test-solution  no  precipitate  is 
formed  within  fifteen  or  twenty  minutes,  even  when  a gentle  heat  is  applied  (distinction 
from  orthophosphate).  On  boiling  the  aqueous  solution  with  free  mineral  acids  the  salt 
is  gradually  converted  into  orthophosphate. 

Tests. — If  1 Gm.  of  the  powdered  salt  be  shaken  with  3 Cc.  of  stannous  chloride  test- 
solution,  then  a small  piece  of  pure  tin-foil  added,  and  a gentle  heat  applied,  no  brown  col- 
oration should  appear  within  fifteen  minutes  (limit  of  arsenic).  If  0.5  Gm.  of  the  salt  be 
dissolved  in  6 Cc.  of  water,  and  1 Cc.  of  sodium  bitartrate  test-solution  added,  the  solution 
should  remain  perfectly  clear  (limit  of  potassium).  “ The  aqueous  solution  of  the  salt 
should  not  effervesce  on  the  addition  of  an  acid  (absence  of  carbonate).  Acidified  with 
hydrochloric  acid,  it  should  remain  unaffected  by  hydrogen  sulphide  or  ammonium  sul- 
phide (absence  of  metals),  and  when  acidified  with  nitric  acid  it  should  not  yield  more 
than  a faint  opalescence  with  test-solution  of  barium  nitrate  (limit  of  sulphate)  or  silver 
nitrate  (limit  of  chloride).” — U.  S. 

Uses. — It  is  said  that  its  action  and  uses  are  the  same  as  those  of  sodium  phosphate, 
but  that  it  should  be  given  in  doses  one-third  less.  Its  pharmaceutical  uses  give  it  its 
chief  value. 

SODII  SALICYLAS,  77.  S.,  Br. — Sodium  Salicylate. 

Natrium  salicylicum , P.  G. — Salicylate  de  soude , Fr. ; Natriumsalicylat,  G. 

Formula  NaC7H503.  Molecular  weight  159.67. 

Preparation. — Sodium  bicarbonate  10  parts  and  salicylic  acid  16.5  parts  are  mixed 
in  a porcelain  or  glass  vessel,  and  10  parts  of  pure  water  are  gradually  added  : as  the 
reaction  progresses  carbon  dioxide  is  rapidly  evolved,  the  newly-formed  salt  remaining 
in  solution,  which  latter  should  have  a slightly  acid  reaction  to  ensure  a product  free 
from  color.  If  necessary,  the  solution  may  receive  a slight  addition  of  salicylic  acid,  as 
alkali  salicylates  in  the  presence  of  an  excess  of  alkali  absorb  oxygen  from  the  air  and 
become  colored.  The  solution  is  heated  on  a water-bath  to  expel  all  carbon  dioxide,  and 
then  evaporated  at  about  60°  C.  (140°  F.)  to  dryness ; the  residue  may  be  recrystallized 


1480 


SODII  SALICYLAS. 


from  a solution  in  120  parts  of  95  per  cent,  alcohol  if  desired.  Owing  to  the  delicate 
reaction  of  salicylic  acid  with  iron  salts,  all  contact  with  metals  must  be  avoided ; more- 
over, the  salicylic  acid  must  be  free  from  creosotic  (homosalicylic)  acid,  and  the  alkali  free 
from  iron. 

Although  not  a bibasic  acid,  salicylic  acid  is  capable  of  forming  two  classes  of  salts, 
primary  and  secondary  salicylates ; the  former  are  obtained  when  the  acid  is  neutralized 
by  means  of  alkali  carbonates  or  bicarbonates,  whereas  the  use  of  alkali  hydroxides 
results  in  the  formation  of  the  secondary  salts,  which  are  less  soluble  and  less  stable. 

The  official  sodium  salicylate  of  the  U.  S.,  G.,  and  Br.  Pharmacopoeias  is  the  primary 
salt,  the  two  first-named  recognizing  the  anhydrous  salt,  while  the  latter  admits  5.3  per 
cent,  of  water,  the  salt  having  the  composition  2NaC7H503  + H20. 

Properties. — Sodium  salicylate  is  a white  crystalline  powder  or  forms  small  white 
crystalline  plates,  is  permanent  in  the  air,  inodorous  or  nearly  so,  and  has  a sweetish 
saline  and  mildly  alkaline  taste  and  a feebly  acid  reaction.  It  dissolves  at  15°  C.  (59° 
F.)  in  0.9  ( U.  &.,  P.  Gr.)  part  of  water  and  in  6 parts  of  alcohol,  and  is  more  freely 
soluble  in  boiling  water  and  boiling  alcohol ; also  soluble  in  glycerin.  By  heat  the  salt 
is  decomposed,  inflammable  vapors  are  given  off,  and  a carbonaceous  residue  of  sodium 
carbonate  is  left,  weighing  about  33  per  cent,  of  the  salt  used,  and  imparting  to  a non- 
luminous  flame  an  intense  yellow  color,  which  should  appear  not  more  than  transiently 
red  when  observed  through  a blue  glass.  If  copper  sulphate  test-solution  be  added  to 
the  aqueous  solution  (1  in  20),  a green  color  will  be  produced.  On  adding  to  a small 
portion  of  the  salt,  in  a test-tube,  about  1 Cc.  of  concentrated  sulphuric  acid,  and  then, 
cautiously,  about  1 Cc.  of  methylic  alcohol  in  drops,  on  heating  the  mixture  to  boiling 
the  odor  of  methyl  salicylate  will  be  evolved.  Ferric  chloride  added  to  the  concentrated 
aqueous  solution  of  the  salt  colors  it  red-brown,  but  a very  diluted  solution  is  colored 
violet.  The  rather  concentrated  aqueous  solution,  when  strongly  acidulated  with  hydro- 
chloric or  sulphuric  acid,  gives  a white  crystalline  precipitate,  which  is  soluble  in  ether 
and  in  hot  water  and  has  all  the  properties  of  salicylic  acid  (see  p.  88). 

Tests. — “ The  aqueous  solution  should  be  colorless,  and  should  not  effervesce  on  the 
addition  of  acids  (absence  of  carbonate).  Agitated  with  about  15  parts  of  concentrated 
sulphuric  acid,  the  salt  should  not  impart  color  to  the  acid  within  fifteen  minutes  (absence 
of  foreign  organic  matter).  If  a solution  of  1 Gm.  of  the  salt  in  a mixture  of  50  Cc.  of 
alcohol  and  25  Cc.  of  water  be  acidulated  with  nitric  acid,  the  filtered  solution  should 
yield  no  precipitate,  nor  be  rendered  turbid  on  the  addition  of  a few  drops  of  test-solu- 
tion of  barium  chloride  (absence  of  sulphate)  or  of  silver  nitrate  (absence  of  chloride).” 
U.  S.  The  tests  ordered  by  the  P.  G.  are  nearly  identical  with  the  above.  In  the  last 
test  the  addition  of  alcohol  is  made  for  the  purpose  of  keeping  in  solution  the  salicylic 
acid  liberated  by  the  nitric  acid,  whereby  filtration  is  avoided.  The  salt  should  not  have 
the  odor  of  phenol. 

Allied  Salts. — Potassium  salicylate,  (2KC7H503.II20)is  prepared  like  the  sodium  salt,  100  parts 
of  salicylic  acid  requiring  72.5  parts  of  potassium  bicarbonate.  The  salt  crystallizes  in  colorless 
silky  needles,  is  permanent  in  dry  air,  and  is  freely  soluble  in  water. 

Sodium  formate,  (NaCH02.H20),  is  prepared  by  neutralizing  formic  acid  with  pure  sodium  car- 
bonate or  bicarbonate.  It  crystallizes  in  colorless  rhombic  plates  or  prisms,  which  are  inodorous, 
have  a saline  bitter  taste,  melt  in  their  water  of  crystallization,  are  deliquescent  in  moist  air,  and 
dissolve  freely  in  water. 

Sodium  dithiosalicylate.  If  a mixture  of  equal  molecular  weights  of  sulphur  chloride 
(bromide  or  iodide)  and  salicylic  acid  is  heated  for  some  time  to  120°-1  50°  C.  (248°-302°  F.),  a 
lively  reaction  ensues,  hydrogen  chloride  (bromide  or  iodide)  escaping,  and  dithiosalicylic  acid 
remaining  in  the  form  of  a yellowish  resinous  mass.  The  residue,  which  is  soluble  in  alcohol, 
is  a mixture  of  two  isomeric  acids,  designated  respectively  as  No.  1 and  No.  2.  When  the  acid 
is  treated  with  solution  of  sodium  carbonate,  the  two  sodium  salts  are  formed,  and  may  be  sepa- 
rated by  means  of  sodium  chloride,  which  precipitates  the  No.  1 salt,  while  the  No.  2 salt 
remains  in  solution  ; or  the  dried  mixture  of  the  two  salts  may  be  exhausted  with  boiling  alcohol, 
which  dissolves  only  the  No.  2 salt.  This  latter  salt  is  preferred  ; it  occurs  as  a grayish-white 
amorphous  powder,  very  hygroscopic  and  readily  soluble  in  water,  forming  a brownish-black 
solution  of  alkaline  reaction.  Its  antiseptic  activity  is  superior  to  sodium  salicylate,  and  it  has 
been  successfully  employed  in  rheumatic  fever,  gonorrheic  rheumatism,  and  similar  cases.  The 
dose  is  from  4-10  Gm.  daily  in  doses  of  0.5  to  1.0  Gm.  Sodium  dithiosalicylate  No.  1 is  a yel- 
lowish amorphous  powder,  somewhat  hygroscopic  and  of  alkaline  reaction  ; it  forms  with  water 
a clear  brownish  solution.  The  salt  has  been  chiefly  employed  in  veterinary  practice  in  the  form 
of  a 5 per  cent,  solution. 

Sodium  diiodosalicylate,  NaC6II2I2(0II)C02+2.5H20.  When  an  alcoholic  solution  of  sali- 
cylic acid  is  treated  with  iodine  and  iodic  acid,  diiodosalicylic  acid  is  formed  by  substitution  of 
2 atoms  of  iodine  for  2 of  hydrogen,  which  may  be  neutralized  with  sodium  carbonate,  and  then 


SODII  SALICYLAS. 


1481 


yields  white  laminae  or  long  flat,  needle-shaped  crystals  which  are  soluble  in  50  parts  of  water  at 
20°  C.  (68°  F.).  The  salt  possesses  analgesic  and  antiseptic  properties. 

Sodium  sulphosalicylate,  C6H3(0H)C02HS03Na.  This  salt,  obtained  by  neutralizing 
sulphosalicylic  acid  (see  page  90)  with  sodium  carbonate,  occurs  in  colorless  crystals,  soluble  in 
25-30  parts  of  water  ; the  aqueous  solution  has  an  acid  reaction,  and  is  not  affected  by  barium 
chloride  or  silver  nitrate.  The  salt  has  been  recommended  as  a substitute  for  sodium  salicylate 
in  the  treatment  of  articular  rheumatism. 

Sodio-theobromine  Salicylate,  Diuretin,  C7H7NaN402  + NaC7H503.  This  compound  is 
obtained  by  mixing  aqueous  solutions  of  equal  molecules  of  sodium  theobromine  and  sodium 
salicylate  and  evaporating  to  dryness  ; a definite  compound  appears  to  be  formed,  containing 
theoretically  49.7  per  cent,  of  theobromine  and  38.1  per  cent,  of  salicylic  acid.  Diuretin  occurs  as 
a white  powder,  odorless,  of  a saline,  alkaline  taste,  and  soluble  in  half  its  weight  of  warm  water, 
the  solution  remaining  perfect  on  cooling.  It  should  be  preserved  in  well-stoppered  bottles,  as 
it  is  readily  affected  by  the  air,  theobromine  separating  by  action  of  carbon  dioxide.  It  has 
proven  to  be  a reliable  diuretic,  free  from  poisonous  properties  and  unpleasant  after-effects.  The 
daily  dose  of  diuretin  is  4-8  Gm.  (60-120  grains)  in  divided  portions  of  1.0  Gin.  (15  grains)  each  ; 
it  is  best  administered  in  solution  with  aromatic  waters,  and  should  not  be  dispensed  in  powder 
form,  owing  to  liability  to  change  upon  exposure. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  great  solubility  of  this  salt,  which  is  partly  the  reason 
of  its  milder  action  than  that  of  potassium  salicylate,  renders  it  in  many  cases  preferable 
to  the  latter.  It  is  liable  to  act  poisonously.  Hampeln  has  reported  a case  in  which  a 
drachm  was  given  daily  for  about  six  weeks,  and  gradually  produced  drowsiness,  lassi- 
tude, unsteady  movements,  tremors,  listlessness,  and  impaired  attention,  memory,  and 
sight.  On  withdrawing  the  medicine  these  symptoms  slowly  disappeared.  A similar 
case  was  reported  by  Mueller  (Med.  Record , xxxii.  135).  Others  also  in  which  cutane- 
ous eruptions  or  collapse  or  delirium  have  occurred  ( Lancet , 1890,  i.  1173,  1299;  Jour. 
Amer.  Med.  Assoc.,  xviii.  594).  Rutherford  and  Vignal  declare  it  to  be  “ a very  power- 
ful hepatic  stimulant  in  the  dog,”  but  no  such  action  has  been  observed  in  man.  Its 
medicinal  uses  are  the  same  as  those  of  Salicylic  Acid,  under  which  the  subject  is 
fully  treated.  Its  mode  of  action  has  been  there  considered,  and  shown  to  be  quite  inade- 
quate to  explain  its  broadly  alleged  therapeutical  effects.  The  statement  of  so  eminent  an 
authority  as  Vulpian  may  be  here  subjoined  to  illustrate  still  further  the  facility  with 
which  in  such  matters  phrases  take  the  place  of  facts : u The  curative  effects  of  sodium 
salicylate  in  acute  articular  rheumatism  are  due  to  the  action  of  the  salt  upon  the  ana- 
tomical elements  of  the  joints  which  are  primarily  affected  by  the  disease.  The  medicine, 
becoming  incorporated  with  them,  renders  them  insusceptible  to  the  specific  irritation 
from  which  the  rheumatism  proceeds.  If  they  are  not  already  involved,  as  soon  as  the 
medicine  acts  upon  them  the  acute  rheumatism  will  no  longer  take  hold  of  them  in  the 
greater  number  of  cases.  If  they  are  affected,  the  irritation  will  rapidly  decline.  As 
soon  as  it  has  ceased  the  articular  pains  will  abate,  and  then  the  swelling,  and  soon  after- 
ward the  fever  also.  The  disease,  however,  is  not  certainly  cured  when  these  phenomena 
subside,  ....  for  if  the  treatment  is  suspended  they  reappear  ; and  not  only  so,  but 
even  while  the  medicine  continues  to  be  given,  and  several  days  after  the  joint  affection 
has  ceased,  inflammation  of  the  endocardium,  the  pericardium  or  the  pleura  may  arise” 
(Du  Mode  eV Action  du  Salicylate  de  Soude , 1881).  The  inferences  which  Hood  drew 
from  an  analysis  of  more  than  2000  cases  of  acute  articular  rheumatism  appear  to  be 
correct.  They  are  substantially  these : The  treatment  by  salicylates  (1)  relieves  pain 
and  abates  fever,  but  renders  relapses  more  frequent.  (2)  It  does  not  affect  the  fre- 
quency of  the  heart-complications.  (3)  It  does  not  prevent  hyperpyrexia.  (4)  Its  use 
is  followed  by  a longer  convalescence  than  usual.  (5)  It  does  not  modify  the  mortality- 
rate.  (6)  It  is  most  efficient  in  conjunction  with  the  alkaline  treatment  ( Lancet , Feb.  18, 
1888).  This  may  consist  of  the  union  of  the  sodium  bicarbonate  with  the  salicylate  in 
the  same  dose,  or  their  administration  separately  and  alternately.  The  latter  has  been 
credited  with  the  speedy  cure  of  tonsillitis , but  with  no  better  reason  than  may  be  given 
for  the  use  of  the  bicarbonate  alone.  Apparently  the  cases  in  which  either  is  efficient 
are  those  of  rheumatic  pharyngitis  rather  than  of  suppurative  tonsillitis.  In  a case  of 
neuralgia  of  the  fifth  nerve,  of  long  standing  and  very  severe,  Dercum  effected  a cure 
by  the  persistent  use  of  large  doses  of  sodium  salicylate  (Med.  News , 1.  328).  It  is  a 
palliative  of  the  pain  of  dysmenorrhota  and  the  itching  of  pruritus.  Burroughs  states 
that  it  has  been  found  to  palliate  whooping  cough  and  cure  migraine  (Med.  Record , xxxii. 
528).  Jaccoud  has  warned  against  the  use  of  the  medicine  in  albuminuria.  In  a case 
of  polyuria  which  valerian  and  ergot  failed  to  relieve  the  use  of  this  medicine,  in  the 
dose  of  Gm.  0.50— 0. GO  (gr.  viij-x)  after  meals,  was  followed  by  a return  of  normal 
urination  (Randall,  Med.  News , lii.  373).  The  antiseptic  and  antacid  properties  of  the 


1482 


SODII  SANTONIN  AS. 


compound  have  been  usefully  applied  to  the  treatment  of  cholera  infantum  ( Archives  of 
Paediatrics , July,  1886)  and  of  various  diarrhoeas  (. Med . News,  xliii.  268).  It  has  been 
credited  with  modifying  favorably  the  course  of  variola  and  of  hastening  the  resolution 
of  orchitis ; but  of  the  correctness  of  these  statements  the  evidence  is  slender.  In  rheu- 
matic iritis  there  is  more  reason  to  accept  the  statements  made  of  its  efficacy,  and  in 
biliary  colic  it  palliates  the  pain.  It  has  the  latter  effect  in  acute  'pleurisy  and  sciatica. 

The  dose  of  sodium  salicylate  (as  already  stated  under  Salicylic  Acid)  should  be 
about  20  grains,  repeated  five  or  six  times  a day  in  acute  articular  rheumatism.  Smaller 
doses  are  not  to  be  depended  upon  for  checking  the  development  of  or  arresting  the  dis- 
ease, and  such  as  V.  Jaksch  recommended  (of  150-360  grains  a day)  are  neither  neces- 
sary nor  safe. 

Potassium  Salicylate  has  been  used  as  a substitute  for  the  sodium  salt  in  the  treat- 
ment of  rheumatism , and  with  alleged  advantage  ( Trans . Amer.  Med.  Assoc.,  xxxiii.  151), 
but  confirmation  of  the  statement  is  wanting. 

Sodium  formate  has  been  proposed  as  a substitute  for  the  salicylate  in  cases  in 
which  there  may  be  danger  from  the  renal  congestion  sometimes  induced  by  the  latter 
salt.  According  to  Arlong  {Archives  gen.,  Nov.  1879,  p.  602),  a 5 per  cent,  solution  of 
the  sodium  formate  gradually  introduced  into  the  blood  of  a dog  or  horse  slows  the 
heart  and  dilates  the  capillaries  ; in  excessive  doses  it  arrests  the  heart.  Corresponding 
effects  are  produced  on  the  respiration  and  calorification.  We  are  not  acquainted  with 
any  clinical  experience  with  this  compound. 

Sodium  di-iodosalicylate. — It  has  been  claimed  that  in  divided  daily  doses  of  Gm. 
1.5-4  (gr.  xx-lx)  this  compound  is  antipyretic,  analgesic,  and  antiseptic,  is  a sedative 
of  irregular  action  of  the  heart,  and  efficient  in  parasitic  diseases  of  the  skin. 

Sodium  di-thiosalicylate  is  said  to  be  a more  powerful  antiseptic  than  the  sali- 
cylate, like  which  it  has  been  used  in  acute  articular  rheumatism  without  causing  noises 
in  the  ears  or  other  unpleasant  effects.  Dose , Gm.  0.2  (gr.  iij)  morning  and  evening. 
But  May  and  Volt  prescribed  30  to  80  grains,  followed  every  two  hours  by  15-grain 
doses  ( University  Med.  Mag.,  iv.  467). 

SODII  SANTONINAS. — Sodium  Santoninate. 

Natrium  santoninicum , s.  santonicum. — Santonate  de  soude,  Fr. ; Natriumsantoninat,  G. 

Formula  2NaC15Hi904.7II20.  Molecular  weight  696.50. 

Preparation. — Heat  on  a water-bath  3^  ounces  of  solution  of  soda  diluted  with  1 
ounce  of  water,  add  1 ounce  of  santonin,  digest  until  the  latter  is  dissolved,  filter,  wash 
the  filter  with  a little  hot  water,  and  set  aside  in  a cool  place  to  crystallize.  The  decanted 
mother-liquor,  concentrated  by  evaporation,  will  yield  more  crystals ; when  these  are  no 
longer  obtained  colorless,  the  mother-liquor  is  acidulated  with  hydrochloric  acid,  and  the 
santonin  which  separates  is  collected  separately.  The  yield  is  about  li  ounces  of  sodium 
santoninate. 

Lepage  (1876)  proposed  to  prepare  this  salt  by  first  forming  calcium  santoninate, 
precipitating  this  solution  by  sodium  carbonate,  evaporating  the  filtrate  nearly  to  dry- 
ness and  exhausting  the  residue  with  strong  alcohol  to  remove  excess  of  sodium  carbo- 
nate ; on  evaporating  the  solution  the  salt  crystallizes,  leaving  finally  a colored  mother- 
liquor. 

Properties. — The  salt  crystallizes  from  alcohol  in  fine  felt-like  needles  or  small  white 
prisms,  and  from  water  in  rather  large  colorless  and  transparent  or  translucent  rhombic 
tables  or  laminae,  in  which  form  it  is  usually  seen.  These  crystals  are  nearly  permanent 
in  the  air,  a slight  efflorescence  being  observed  only  after  long  keeping,  and  they  are  very 
slowly  tinged  yellow  when  kept  in  diffused  daylight.  The  salt  should  be  kept  in  dark 
amber-colored,  well-stoppered  vials,  and  not  be  exposed  to  light.  The  salt  is  inodorous  and 
has  a saline  and  bitter  taste  and  a slight  alkaline  reaction.  It  is  soluble  in  3 parts  of 
water  and  in  12  parts  of  alcohol  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  and  it  dissolves  in  0.5  parts  of  boiling 
water  and  in  3.4  parts  of  boiling  alcohol.  It  is  insoluble  in  ether.  At  100°  C.  (212°  F.) 
it  parts  with  its  water  of  crystallization  (18  per  cent.),  and  at  a somewhat  higher  heat  it 
becomes  bright  red,  the  mass  having  a glassy  lustre  after  cooling  and  becoming  colorless 
by  water ; at  a red  heat  the  salt  is  completely  decomposed,  and  an  alkaline  residue  is  left 
which  imparts  an  intense  yellow  color  to  flame.  The  aqueous  solution  of  the  salt,  acidu- 
lated with  hydrochloric  acid,  deposits  santonin,  which  is  readily  soluble  in  chloroform, 
and  yields  with  alcohol,  in  the  presence  of  caustic  alkali  or  earth,  a bright-red  solution, 
becoming  gradually  colorless. 


SOD II  SULPHAS. 


1483 


Tests. — A 5 per  cent,  aqueous  solution  of  the  salt  should  not  he  precipitated  nor  be 
rendered  turbid  by  test-solution  of  sodium  carbonate  (absence  of  alkaline  earths),  nor 
by  picric  or  tannic  acid  (absence  of  alkaloids).  The  aqueous  solution  is  not  colored  vio- 
let by  ferric  chloride  (difference  from  salicylate). 

Allied  Compound. — Sodii  santoninas  albuminatus.  Digest  santonin  1 part,  sodium  bicarbo- 
nate 4 parts,  and  dry  soluble  albumen  2 parts  with  about  50  parts  of  water  at  60°  C.  (140°  F.) 
until  solution  has  been  effected  ; filter,  evaporate  at  a gentle  heat,  and  dry  on  glass  plates  (Pavesi, 
1876).  This  compound  forms  brilliant  white  scales  having  a pearly  lustre  and  a bitter  alkaline 
taste ; its  solution  in  water  is  decomposed  by  mineral  acids  with  effervescence  of  carbon  dioxide 
gas,  santonin  and  albumen  being  precipitated. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  salt  has  over  santonin  the  advantage  of  greater  solubility — 
if  that  be  indeed  an  advantage — for  not  only  is  its  taste  more  distinct  and  disagreeable, 
but  it  is  more  rapidly  absorbed  from  the  stomach,  and  is  therefore  less  apt  to  come  into 
contact  with  the  intestinal  parasites  it  is  given  to  destroy.  In  animals  it  produces 
poisonous  effects  more  speedily  than  the  proportion  of  santonin  contained  in  it  would 
do.  Nevertheless,  sodium  santoninate  has  been  used  with  success  as  an  anthelmintic, 
especially  for  lumbricoid  worms.  It  may  be  prescribed  for  adults  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.50— 
0.60  (gr.  viij-x)  twice  a day,  and  for  children  in  doses  of  from  Gm.  0.10-0.30,  (gr.  ij-v) 
mixed  with  sugar.  After  the  second  day  a laxative,  such  as  confection  of  senna  or  jalap 
and  cream  of  tartar,  should  be  administered  to  remove  the  worms.  Enemata  of  water 
containing  this  salt  may  be  used  for  rectal  ascarides. 

SODII  SULPHAS,  U.  S.,  Br.— Sodium  Sulphate. 

Sodse  sulphas , Br. ; Natrium  sulphuricum , P.  G. ; Sulfas  sodicus  (iiatricus'). — Glauber’s 
salt , E.;  Sulfate  de  soude , Sel  de  Glauber , Fr. ; Glaubersalz , G. 

Formula  Na2SO4.10H2O.  Molecular  weight  321.42. 

Origin. — Sodium  sulphate  is  found  native  in  the  anhydrous  state  and  crystallized, 
and  also  in  combination  with  calcium  sulphate.  It  is  present  in  the  water  of  many 
mineral  springs  and  in  that  of  certain  lakes  in  Russia  and  in  the  western  part  of  the 
United  States.  It  is  stated  to  have  been  known  in  Saxony  for  a century  before  it  was 
obtained  artificially  by  Glauber  (1658)  from  the  saline  residue  left  in  the  preparation  of 
hydrochloric  acid,  and  was  named  after  him  Sal  mirabile  Glauberi.  The  same  salt,  pre- 
pared from  the  mineral  spring  at  Friedrichshall,  became  known  in  1767  as  Sal  aperitivum 
Fridericianum.  It  is  largely  manufactured  in  the  United  States,  but  small  and  variable 
quantities  of  it  are  also  imported  from  abroad. 

Preparation. — This  salt  is  largely  obtained  in  many  chemical  processes,  either  as  an 
intermediate  or  a secondary  product,  as  in  the  preparation  of  soda  by  Leblanc’s  process ; 
from  the  mother-liquors  of  the  Stassfurt  potash-works ; in  the  preparation  of  magnesium 
carbonate ; in  the  manufacture  of  hydrochloric  and  nitric  acids  from  sodium  chloride  and 
nitrate ; in  the  preparation  of  table-salt  from  many  saline  springs ; in  the  manufacture  of 
sal  ammoniac  from  ammonium  sulphate  and  sodium  chloride;  in  preparing  carbon  dioxide 
for  the  manufacture  of  mineral  waters  from  sodium  bicarbonate  and  sulphuric  acid  ; and 
in  several  other  processes.  Sodium  sulphate  as  thus  obtained  is  purified  by  crystallizing 
it  repeatedly  from  water,  if  necessary,  after  neutralization  with  sodium  carbonate. 

Properties. — Sodium  sulphate  crystallizes  in  large,  transparent,  colorless,  monoclinic 
prisms,  which  do  not  alter  the  color  of  red  and  blue  litmus-paper,  are  inodorous,  have  a 
cooling,  saline,  and  distinctly  bitter  taste,  and  rapidly  effloresce  on  exposure  to  the  air, 
leaving  a white  powder.  The  crystallized  salt  must  therefore  be  kept  in  well-stoppered 
bottles,  and,  on  account  of  its  low  melting-point,  in  a cool  place.  It  is  soluble  at  15°  C. 
(59°  F.),  in  2.8  parts  of  water.  The  solubility  increases  up  to  34°  C.  (93°  F.),  when  its 
maximum  is  attained,  1 part  of  the  salt  then  dissolving  in  somewhat  less  than  0.25  part 
of  water;  from  thence  it  gradually  decreases  with  rising  temperature,  until  1 part  requires 
0.47  part  of  boiling  water  for  solution.  Insoluble  in  alcohol ; soluble  in  glycerin.  When 
heated  to  33°  C.  (91.4°  F.),  the  salt  fuses,  and,  on  being  heated  to  100°  C.  (212°  F.), 
loses  all  of  its  water  (55.9  per  cent.).  At  a red  heat  the  anhydrous  salt  fuses  without 
decomposition.  To  a non-luminous  flame  it  imparts  an  intensely  yellow  color.  The 
aqueous  solution  is  neutral  to  litmus-paper.  A 5 per  cent,  aqueous  solution  of  the  salt 
yields  with  barium  chloride  a white  precipitate  insoluble  in  nitric  acid. 

Tests. — A 5 per  cent,  aqueous  solution  of  sodium  sulphate  should  not  effervesce  on 
the  addition  of  hydrochloric  acid  (absence  of  carbonate),  should  not  be  colored  or  precipi- 
tated by  ammonium  sulphide  or  hydrogen  sulphide  (metals),  should  not  become  cloudy  by 


1484 


SODII  S ULPHIS. 


sodium  carbonate  and  heating  (earths),  and  should  not  give  off  ammoniacal  vapors  on 
being  treated  with  a warm  solution  of  caustic  soda  (ammonium  salt).  “ If  to  5 Cc.  of  the 
aqueous  solution  1 Cc.  of  sodium  phosphate  test-solution  and  0.5  Cc.  of  ammonia-water 
be  added,  no  turbidity  or  precipitate  should  be  produced,  even  after  agitation  (absence  of 
magnesium).  After  acidulation  with  nitric  acid,  the  aqueous  solution  should  remain  clear, 
or  at  most  be  rendered  only  very  slightly  opalescent  on  addition  of  silver  nitrate  test-solu- 
tion (limit  of  chloride).” — U.  S.  100  grains  of  it,  dissolved  in  distilled  water  and 
acidulated  with  hydrochloric  acid,  give,  by  the  addition  of  barium  chloride  a white  preci- 
pitate which,  after  washing  and  drying,  weighs  72.3  grains,  or  1 Gm.  yields  .723  Gm.  of 
BaS04. 

Composition. — Crystallized  sodium  sulphate  contains  55.9  per  cent,  water  of  crys- 
tallization, 24.85  per  cent.  S03,  and  19.25  per  cent.  Na20.  Under  certain  circumstances 
the  sulphate  crystallizes  with  7H20,  and  then  contains  47  per  cent,  of  water  of  crystal- 
lization. 

Sodii  sulphas  effervescens,  Br.  Add.,  Effervescent  sodium  sulphate.  Dry  25  ozs. 
of  crystallized  sodium  sulphate  until  it  has  lost  56  per  cent,  of  its  weight ; powder  the 
product  and  mix  it  with  sodium  bicarbonate  25  ounces,  tartaric  acid  13^  ounces,  and  citric 
acid,  in  powder,  9 ounces.  Place  the  mixture  in  a dish  heated  to  93.3°-104.4°  C.  (200°— 
220°  F.),  and  when  the  particles  of  the  powder  begin  to  aggregate,  stir  them  assiduously 
until  they  assume  a granular  form  ; by  means  of  sieves  separate  the  granules  of  uniform 
size  and  preserve  in  well-closed  bottles.  The  final  product  should  weigh  about  50 
ounces. 

Sodii  sulphas  exsiccatus,  s.  Natrium  sulfuricum  siccum,  P.  G.  It  is  obtained  by 
exposing  the  crystallized  salt  to  a moderate  heat  until  its  weight  has  been  reduced  to  one- 
half,  when  the  white  powder  is  passed  through  a sieve  and  preserved  in  well-stoppered 
bottles.  4 parts  of  the  completely  dehydrated  salt  represent  9 parts  of  the  crystallized 
salt ; it  contains  56.33  per  cent.  S03  and  43.67  per  cent.  Na20. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  mode  of  action  of  Glauber’s  salt  does  not  differ  essentially 
from  that  of  other  saline  cathartics.  Like  them,  it  purges  only  when  given  in  solutions 
of  a certain  degree  of  dilution,  and  not  even  then  unless  the  dose  exceeds  a certain  varia- 
ble limit.  There  is  good  reason  to  believe  that  too  strong  or  too  weak  a solution  of  a 
purgative  salt  equally  tends  to  hinder  its  operation.  If  the  solution  is  weak  and  not 
bulky,  it  will  act  by  the  kidneys  rather  than  by  the  bowels.  Many  persons  are  affected 
by  natural  purgative  mineral  waters  in  this  manner,  whatever  may  be  their  dose.  On 
the  other  hand,  it  is  of  daily  observation  that  just  in  proportion  to  the  dilution  of  a saline 
cathartic  is  its  relative  efficiency  as  a purgative.  This  fact  is  abundantly  illustrated  by 
the  familiar  effects  of  the  saline  mineral  waters  just  referred  to ; they  are  purgative  in 
doses  which  contain  only  an  inconsiderable  proportion  of  the  neutral  salts. 

Glauber’s  salt  is  almost  entirely  supplanted  by  Epsom  salt  in  this  country  and  in  Eng- 
land, but  in  Germany  the  former  is  in  more  common  use.  It  is  employed  to  relieve 
plethora , overcome  constipation , and  to  act  as  a depletory  and  sedative  remedy  in  various 
febrile  affections,  inflammatory  and  other.  It  has  been  especially  used  in  weak  solution 
in  typhoid  fever  and  in  dysentery , and  probably  with  more  benefit  and  less  mischief  than 
any  other  active  treatment  of  those  affections.  Of  late  years  it  has  been  strongly  recom- 
mended in  the  form  of  Carlsbad  water  (which  contains  also  a little  sodium  chloride  and 
carbonate),  natural  or  artificial,  in  cases  of  simple  ulcer  of  the  stomach.  The  water 
is  taken  to  the  extent  of  about  a pint,  in  divided  doses,  early  in  the  morning,  and  fasting, 
or  half  an  ounce  of  Glauber’s  salt  may  be  dissolved  in  a pint  of  water  and  used  in  the 
same  manner.  It  is  said  that  in  surgical  poisoning  with  carbolic  acid  repeated  dressings 
with  a 5 per  cent,  solution  of  sodium  sulphate  are  a very  efficient  antidote  ( Amer . Jour, 
of  Med.  Sci.,  July,  1879,  p.  280). 

The  dose  of  sodium  sulphate  as  a purgative  is  from  half  an  ounce  to  an  ounce,  dis- 
solved in  Gm.  120-250  (f^iv-viij)  of  water.  Its  nauseous  bitterness  may  be  partially 
corrected  by  the  addition  of  aromatic  sulphuric  acid  or  by  dissolving  it  in  lemonade 
or  in  carbonated  water  flavored  with  syrup.  Extract  or  fluid  extract  of  liquorice  may  be 
used  for  the  same  purpose. 

SODII  SULPHIS,  V.  S.,  JBr, — Sodium  Sulphite. 

Natrium  sulfurosum,  Sulfis  sodicus  ( natricus ). — Sulfite  de  soude , Fr. ; Natriumsulfit, 
Schwefiigsaures  Natron , G.  . 

Formula  Na2S03.7H20.  Molecular  weight  251.58. 


SOD  II  SUL  PIUS. 


1485 


Preparation. — This  salt  is  formed  on  passing  sulphur  dioxide  into  a solution  of 
sodium  carbonate  until  the  color  of  blue  litmus-paper  is  changed  to  red,  or  the  solution 
of  a known  quantity  of  sodium  carbonate  is  completely  saturated  with  sulphur  dioxide, 
whereby  sodium  bisulphite  is  produced ; an  equal  weight  of  sodium  carbonate  is  dissolved 
in  the  liquid,  and  the  solution  evaporated  to  crystallization.  The  sulphur  dioxide  decom- 
poses the  sodium  carbonate,  replacing  the  carbon  dioxide  which  is  evolved:  Na2C03+S02 
yields  Na2S03-f  C02. 

Properties. — Sodium  sulphite  crystallizes  in  colorless,  transparent,  monoclinic  prisms, 
which  are  inodorous  and  have  a slight  alkaline  reaction  to  test-paper  and  a cooling,  saline, 
and  sulphurous  taste.  The  salt  effloresces  on  exposure,  and  becomes  opaque  from  the 
loss  of  water  and  from  oxidation  to  sulphate,  and  therefore  requires  to  be  kept  in  well- 
stoppered  bottles.  The  solutiqn  is  more  rapidly  oxidized  than  the  salt,  but  does  not  sepa- 
rate sulphur ; likewise,  not  on  the  addition  of  hydrochloric  acid  (difference  from  thio- 
sulphate). When  heated  to  above  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  the  salt  loses  its  water  of  crystal- 
lization (50  per  cent.),  and  yields  a white  powder  without  melting,  but  at  a red  heat 
fuses  into  an  orange-red  mixture  of  sodium  sulphide  and  sulphate.  The  salt  is  nearly 
insoluble  in  alcohol,  but  dissolves  readily  in  water,  the  anhydrous  salt  requiring,  accord- 
ing to  Kremers  (1856),  at  0°  C.  (32°  F.)  7.07  parts,  at  20°  C.  (68°  F.)  3.49  parts,  and 
at  40°  C.  (104°  F.)  2.02  parts,  of  water.  On  heating  the  aqueous  solution,  saturated  in 
the  cold,  anhydrous  salt  is  deposited  (Rammelsberg).  The  dry,  anhydrous  salt  Na2S03 
(mol.  weight  125.86)  is  nearly  permanent  in  the  air,  and  when  immersed  in  a little  water 
combines  with  it  and  forms  a solid  mass.  Muspratt  obtained  sulphite  in  oblique  prisms 
containing  10H2O  = 58.8  per  cent,  of  water  of  crystallization,  but  even  from  supersatu- 
rated solutions  the  salt  crystallizes  of  the  above  composition  (Schultz).  The  crystallized 
salt  is  soluble  in  4 parts  of  water  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  and  in  0.9  part  of  boiling  water 
(£/".  Si).  Diluted  sulphuric  or  hydrochloric  acid,  added  to  the  salt  or  its  solution,  liber- 
ates sulphur  dioxide,  which  is  recognized  by  its  odor.  If  held  in  a non-luminous  flame 
an  intense  yellow  color  is  imparted  to  the  latter. 

Tests. — “ The  aqueous  solution  (1  in  20)  should  not  be  colored  or  rendered  turbid  by 
the  addition  of  an  equal  volume  of  hydrogen  sulphide  test-solution,  either  before  or  after 
the  addition  of  ammonia-water  in  slight  excess  (absence  of  metallic  impurities).  If  a 
solution  of  2.5  Gm.  of  the  salt  in  11  Cc.  of  diluted  hydrochloric  acid  be  heated  suffici- 
ently to  expel  the  sulphur  dioxide,  then  0.15  Cc.  of  barium  chloride  test-solution  added, 
and  the  precipitate,  if  any,  removed  by  filtration,  the  clear  filtrate  should  remain  unaf- 
fected by  the  further  addition  of  barium  chloride  test-solution  (limit  of  sulphate).  If 
1.2  Gm.  of  sodium  sulphite  be  dissolved  in  10  Cc.  of  diluted  nitric  acid,  the  solution 
heated  to  expel  gases,  then  0.4  Cc.  of  decinormal  silver  nitrate  solution  added,  and  the 
precipitate,  if  any,  removed  by  filtration,  the  clear  filtrate  should  remain  unchanged  by 
the  addition  of  more  silver  nitrate  solution  (limit  of  chloride).  If  0.63  Gm.  of  the  salt 
be  dissolved  in  25  Cc.  of  water  recently  boiled  to  expel  air,  and  a little  starch  test-solu- 
tion be  added,  at  least  48  Cc.  of  decinormal  iodine  solution  should  be  required  to  produce 
a permanent  blue  tint  (each  Cc.  corresponding  to  2 per  cent,  of  the  pure  salt).” — U.  S. 

In  the  last-mentioned  test  the  reaction  between  the  sodium  sulphite  and  iodine  results 
in  the  formation  of  sodium  sulphate,  as  follows : Na2S03.7II20  -(-  I2  = Na2S04  -J-  2HI  -(- 
6H20,  and  hence  each  Cc.  of  decinormal  iodine  solution  containing  0.012653  Gm.  of 
iodine  is  capable  of  oxidizing  0.012579  Gm.  of  the  crystallized  sulphite. 

Composition. — The  salt  contains  24.6  per  cent.  Na20,  25.4-  per  cent.  S02,  and  50 
per  cent,  of  water  of  crystallization. 

Action  and  Uses. — These  are  essentially  the  same  as  have  been  described  in  con- 
nection with  sulphurous  acid,  potassium  sulphite,  and  sodium  thiosulphate ; that  is  to 
say,  sodium  sulphite  checks  putrefaction  and  other  forms  of  fermentation,  and  thereby 
tends  to  arrest  the  exhalation  of  the  fetid  gases  which  are  formed  during  these  processes. 
This  action,  as  in  the  case  of  sulphurous  acid  itself,  is  a purely  chemical  one,  for  it  is 
neither  more  nor  less  certain  in  the  laboratory  than  in  the  body.  Like  the  other  com- 
pounds of  sulphurous  acid  with  alkalies,  sodium  sulphite  has  been  vaunted  as  a remedy 
for  the  falsely-called  zymotic  diseases,  but  clinical  experience  has  condemned  this  ground- 
less assumption.  Comessati  used  this  salt  in  the  treatment  of  scabies  as  follows : 61  oz. 
of  it  are  dissolved  in  2 pints  of  water,  and  the  solution  thoroughly  applied  at  bedtime. 
On  the  following  morning  the  skin  is  bathed  with  a mixture  of  2 ounces  of  hydrochloric 
acid  in  a quart  of  water.  The  sodium  salt  is  decomposed,  and  its  sulphur,  along  with 
sulphurous  acid  and  sodium  chloride,  remains  upon  the  skin  ( Tlierap . Gaz.,  ix.  789). 

The  dose  of  sodium  sulphite  is  Gm.  1.30-4  (gr.  xx-lx),  largely  diluted  and  frequently 


1486 


SOD II  SULPHOCARBOLAS. 


repeated.  The  solution  may  be  flavored  to  conceal  the  taste.  1 part  of  the  salt,  dissolved 
in  from  2 to  10  parts  of  water,  may  be  applied  externally,  and  solutions  of  half  the  latter 
strength  or  less  may  be  injected  into  the  bladder,  vagina,  etc. 

SODII  SULPHOCARBOLAS,  IT.  S.,  Br.— Sodium  Sulphocarbolate. 

Sodium  paraphenolsulphonate,  U.  S.  ; Sulphophenate  de  sonde,  Fr.  ; PlienylscJiwef tlsaures 
Natron , G. 

Formula  NaS03C6H4(0H).2H20.  Molecular  weight  231.56. 

Origin  and  Preparation. — If  crystallized  carbolic  acid  is  mixed  with  an 
equal  weight  of  strong  sulphuric  acid,  a new  compound  is  formed,  which  was  first 
noticed  by  Laurent  (1841),  and  by  him  named  plienylsulphuric  acid,  with  the  formula 
C6H5HS04.  The  true  constitution  of  the  new  compound  was  shown  by  Kekule  to  be 
phenolsulphonic  acid,  HS03C6H4(0H),  the  group  HS03  displacing  an  atom  of  H in  the 
benzene  nucleus,  and  not  in  the  hydroxyl  group,  as  formerly  supposed.  If  the  mixture  of 
phenol  and  sulphuric  acid  be  set  aside  in  the  cold  for  some  time  until  it  yields  a clear 
solution  with  water,  orthophenolsulphonic  acid  will  be  formed,  but  if  the  temperature 
be  allowed  to  rise  or  increase,  various  mixtures  of  the  isomeric  ortho-  and  para-  varieties 
of  the  acid  are  obtained.  In  order  to  produce  only  the  paraphenolsulphonic  acid,  the 
mixture  is  preferably  heated  on  a boiling  water-bath  for  six  hours,  when  it  will  be  found 
to  yield  a clear  solution  with  water.  After  mixing  the  new  acid  compound  with  ten 
times  its  weight  of  water,  an  excess  of  barium  carbonate  is  added,  and  the  mixture  kept 
at  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  until  the  acid  has  been  neutralized  ; it  is  then  filtered,  and  the  solu- 
tion of  barium  sulphocarbolate  concentrated  and  mixed  with  sodium  carbonate  for 
mutual  decomposition.  Ba(S03C6H4(0H))2  -f  Na2C03  = 2NaS03C6H4(0H)  + BaC03. 
The  solution  after  filtration  (to  remove  BaC03)  is  concentrated,  and  set  aside  to  crystal- 
lize. In  place  of  barium  carbonate,  lead  carbonate  may  likewise  be  employed  to 
neutralize  the  newly-formed  phenolsulphonic  acid,  as  lead  sulphocarbolate  is  also  soluble 
in  water. 

The  Br.  Ph.  does  not  state  which  variety  of  the  salt  is  officially  recognized,  neither 
does  it  designate  the  temperature  at  which  the  reaction  between  the  phenol  and  sulphuric 
acid  is  to  be  allowed  to  go  on. 

Properties. — Sodium  sulphocarbolate  is  in  “ colorless,  transparent,  rhombic  prisms, 
slightly  efflorescent  in  dry  air,  odorless  or  nearly  so,  having  a cooling,  saline,  somewhat 
bitter  taste,  and  a neutral  reaction  ; soluble  in  4.8  parts  of  water,  and  in  132  parts  of 
alcohol  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  in  0.7  part  of  boiling  water,  and  in  10  parts  of  boiling 
alcohol.  When  heated  the  salt  loses  its  water  (15.5  per  cent.)  and  becomes  white. 
At  a higher  temperature  it  emits  inflammable  vapors  having  the  odor  of  carbolic  acid, 
and  leaves  a residue  amounting  to  30.6  per  cent,  of  the  original  weight,  the  filtered 
solution  of  which,  acidulated  with  nitric  acid,  produces  a white  precipitate  with  test- 
solution  of  barium  chloride.  A fragment  of  the  salt  imparts  an  intense  yellow  color  to 
a non-luminous  flame.  The  dilute,  aqueous  solution  of  the  salt  is  colored  violet  by  test 
solution  of  ferric  chloride.” — U.  S.  When  fused  together  with  caustic  potassa,  pyrocate- 
chin  is  obtained. 

Tests. — ■“  In  the  aqueous  solution  (1  in  20)  of  the  salt  neither  hydrogen  sulphide 
test-solution  nor  ammonium  sulphide  test-solution  should  produce  any  turbidity  or 
coloration  (absence  of  metallic  impurities)  ; nor  should  more  than  a faint  opalescence  be 
produced  by  barium  chloride  test-solution  (limit  of  sulphate)  or  by  silver  nitrate  test- 
solution  (limit  of  chloride).” — U.  S. 

Allied  Compounds. — Other  sulphocarbolates  may  be  obtained  by  accurately  precipitating  a 
solution  of  barium  or  lead  sulphocarbolate  by  a solution  of  the  respective  carbonate  or  sulphate,, 
filtering,  and  crystallizing.  They  are  all  soluble  in  water,  alcohol,  and  glycerin,  and  occasionally 
have  a pinkish  tint.  The  following  have  been  employed : 

Potassium  Sulphocarbolate,  KS03C6H4(0H),  crystallizes  in  shining  needles  like  the  am- 
monium salt. 

Calcium  Sulphocarbolate,  Ca(S03C6II4(0H))2.6H20,  forms  scaly  crystals. 

Magnesium  Sulphocarbolate,  Mg(S03C6XI4(0II))2.7H20,  crystallizes  in  rhombic  prisms  or 
needles. 

Zinc  Sulphocarbolate  resembles  the  preceding  in  appearance.  (See  Zincum.) 

The  following  acids  are  likewise  known,  but  have  not  been  employed  in  medicine : Phenoldi- 
sulphonic  acid , (IIS03)2C6II3(0TI),  and  phenoltrisulphonic  acid  (HS63)3C6II2(OH)  ; they  crystal- 
lize in  deliquescent  needles  and  are  produced  from  phenol  and  sulphuric  acid  at  elevated  tem- 
peratures. 


SOD II  SULPHOVINAS. 


1487 


Sodii  carbolas,  Sodium  carbolate  (phenate),  E. ; Phenol  sodique,  Fr.;  Natronphenylat,  G. — 
Carbolic  acid  dissolves  in  solution  of  caustic  soda  as  in  other  alkalies,  and  forms  monosodium 
phenate,  NaC6H50,  but,  according  to  Berthelot  (1871),  neither  basic  nor  acid  compounds;  such 
a concentrated  solution  may  yield  crystals  of  carbolic  acid  (see  page  37).  On  treating  phenol 
with  an  excess  of  melted  alkali,  Barth  (1870)  observed  that  about  one-half  of  it  is  decomposed, 
with  the  formation  of  diphenol,  C12Il10O2,  and  a small  proportion  of  oxybenzoic  and  salicylic 
acids.  On  treating  phenol  with  metallic  sodium,  sodium  carbolate  will  crystallize  in  white 
needles.  It  is  therefore  difficult  to  obtain  a definite  compound  in  the  solid  state,  but  a solution 
of  it  is  readily  obtainable,  and  this  dissolves  notable  quantities  of  carbolic  acid.  Such  a solution 
was  official  in  the  P.  G.  1872  as 

Liquor  natrii  (sodii)  carbolici.  It  is  prepared  by  melting  5 parts  of  pure  carbolic  acid,  and 
adding  1 part  of  solution  of  soda  spec.  grav.  1.332  and  5 parts  of  distilled  water.  It  is  a clear 
liquid  of  a specific  gravity  varying  between  1.060  and  1.065,  has  an  alkaline  reaction,  and  may 
be  diluted  with  water  or  alcohol  without  being  decomposed,  but  on  the  addition  of  acids  carbolic 
acid  is  separated.  Only  one-seventh  of  the  carbolic  acid  is  combined  with  soda ; the  remaining 
six-sevenths  are  dissolved  in  the  aqueous  solution  of  sodium  carbolate. 

Similar  compounds,  but  made  with  impure  carbolic  acid,  are  often  met  with  in  commerce ; on 
diluting  them  with  water  they  separate  most  of  the  empyreumatic  oils  with  which  they  are  con- 
taminated. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  bodies  of  animals  that  have  taken  largely  of  sodium 
sulphocarbolate  are  said  to  resist  putrefaction  for  a long  time.  This  result  is  ascribed  to 
its  decomposition  in  the  body  into  carbolic  and  sulphuric  acids  ; or,  rather,  the  latter  acid 
in  combination  with  sodium  is  eliminated  with  the  urine,  while  the  carbolic  acid  exerts 
its  characteristic  influence  in  preventing  organic  decomposition.  Given  to  man  in 
doses  of  Gm.  1.30—2  (gr.  xx-xxx),  it  occasions  no  special  symptoms;  in  twice  or  three 
times  these  doses  it  only  causes  some  lightness  of  the  head.  It  was  at  one  time  alleged 
to  be  a very  efficient  palliative  in  phthisis  and  to  modify  favorably  the  course  of  typhoid 
fever  and  the  eruptive  fevers , and  was  even  vaunted  as  having  a specific  power  in  scarla- 
tina (Sansom) ; but  it  has,  in  reality,  as  little  efficacy  in  these  diseases  as  the  numberless 
other  medicines  to  which  similar  virtues  have  been  attributed.  Miall  claims  that  it  arrests 
the  vomiting  of  pregnancy.  It  may  be  useful  in  fermentative  dyspepsia  and  diarrhoea  like 
other  carbolates.  Like  them,  it  exerts  a more  or  less  favorable  action  upon  parts  affected 
with  pseudo-membranous  exudation,  especially  when  they  tend  to  gangrene  or  become  the 
seat  of  fetid  decomposition,  as  in  anginose  scarlatina  and  diphtheria  ; and  it  also  arrests 
the  growth  of  thrush.  Dr.  Huse  of  Bockford,  111.,  informs  us  that  he  cured  all  of  thirty- 
six  cases  of  diphtheria  of  the  anginose  form  by  giving  from  15  to  40  grains  of  this  salt 
every  third  or  fourth  hour.  It  may  be  administered  internally  in  doses  of  from  Gm.  0.60 
-2  (10  to  30  grains)  and  applied  topically  in  a saturated  aqueous  solution.  The  medicinal 
value  of  the  other  sulphocarbolates  mentioned  above  is  probably  the  same  as  that  of  the 
officinal  compound. 

Sodium  carbolate  has  been  credited  with  antiseptic  and  germicide  powers.  Brack- 
enridge  attributed  to  its  use  the  favorable  issue  of  fifty  cases  of  scarlatina.  Pernot 
considers  it  a specific  for  whooping  cough  when  the  fumes  given  off  by  heating  it  impreg- 
nate the  atmosphere  breathed  by  the  patients  ( Edinb . Med.  Jour.,  xxiv.  89).  Dr.  J.  W. 
White  (TVie  Mouth  and  the  Teeth , p.  136)  says  of  this  preparation  that  it  is  an  antacid, 
an  astringent,  a sedative,  a styptic,  an  antiseptic,  and  a disinfectant.  As  a wash  for 
the  mouth  it  is  highly  useful  (when  there  are  no  local  exciting  mechanical  causes)  where 
the  gums  are  spongy,  swollen,  and  soft,  and  bleed  at  the  slightest  touch.  It  checks  exces- 
sive bleeding  after  the  extraction  of  teeth  and  relieves  the  subsequent  soreness  of  the 
gums.  It  gives  prompt  relief  to  the  distressing  pains  which  sometimes  follow  extraction, 
corrects  unpleasantness  of  the  breath  caused  by  decayed  teeth  or  by  the  unhealthy  secre- 
tions of  the  mouth,  neutralizes  acidity,  and  prevents  putrefaction. 

Sodium  carbolate  may  be  given  to  adults  in  the  dose  of  from  Gm.  1—2  (gr.  xv— xxx) 
several  times  a day ; the  former  of  these  doses  may  be  administered  to  children  without 
any  risk. 


SODII  SULPHOVINAS. — Sodium  Sulphovinate. 

Sodium  ethylsulphate,  E. ; Sulfovinate  de  soude , Fr. ; Weinschwefelsaures  Natron , G. 

Formula  NaC2H5S04.H20.  Molecular  weight  165.72. 

Preparation. — The  preparation  of  sodium  sulphovinate  requires  the  previous  forma- 
tion of  sidphovinic  acul  from  alcohol  and  sulphuric  acid,  of  which  equal  parts  by  weight 
are  usually  employed.  On  adding  the  sulphuric  acid  gradually  to  the  alcohol,  the 
mixture  becomes  hot  and  forms  sulphovinic  acid  by  ethyl,  C2H5,  of  the  alcohol  taking 


1488 


SODII  V A LERI  AN  A S. 


the  place  of  1 atom  of  hydrogen  in  the  sulphuric  acid,  water  being  formed  at  the 
same  time ; C2H5OH  -J-  H2S04  yields  C2H5HS04  + H20.  The  acid  thus  formed  is 
invariably  mixed  with  sulphuric  acid,  and  if  neutralized  by  caustic  soda  or  sodium 
carbonate,  the  resulting  solution  requires  to  be  mixed  with  an  equal  bulk  of  strong 
alcohol,  in  which  the  sodium  sulphate  is  insoluble,  leaving  an  alcoholic  solution  of 
sodium  sulphovinate,  from  which  the  salt  is  obtained  by  evaporation.  The  use  of  alcohol 
for  removing  sodium  sulphate  is  best  avoided  by  neutralizing  the  crude  sulphovinic  acid 
with  barium  carbonate  or  lead  carbonate  whereby  insoluble  barium  or  lead  sulphate  is 
precipitated,  while  the  corresponding  sulphovinate  is  retained  in  solution,  and,  on  being 
decomposed  by  an  aqueous  solution  of  sodium  carbonate  or  sulphate,  and  filtered  from 
the  insoluble  barium  or  lead  compound,  is  converted  into  sodium  sulphovinate,  which 
should  be  evaporated  at  a moderate  heat  and  crystallized.  Marchand  prefers  adding 
calcium  carbonate  to  the  crude  acid,  and  decomposing  the  calcium  sulphovinate  by 
sodium  ..carbonate.  The  yield  is  usually  about  equal  to  the  weight  of  alcohol  or  of 
sulphuric  acid  used. 

Properties. — Sodium  sulphovinate  crystallizes  in  shining,  transparent,  flat,  six-sided 
tables,  which  effloresce  on  exposure  to  dry  air.  When  obtained  by  spontaneous  evapora- 
tion the  salt  is  granular  and  forms  white  opaque  crystalline  aggregations ; and  if  crystal- 
lized from  an  alcoholic  solution  it  contains  alcohol  in  the  place  of  water  of  crystallization. 
Heated  to  about  80°  C.  (176°  F.),  the  crystals  melt  and  rapidly  part  with  their  water, 
amounting  to  10.8  per  cent. ; and  if  the  heat  is  increased  to  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  or  a little 
above  this  point,  the  salt  is  decomposed,  with  the  formation  of  sodium  sulphate,  charcoal, 
heavy  oil  of  wine,  and  of  sulphurous  acid,  ethylene,  and  other  gases.  The  aqueous 
solution  of  the  salt,  when  heated  to  boiling  is  decomposed,  in  the  same  manner  as  all 
sulphovinates,  into  alcohol,  which  distils  off,  and  acid  sodium  sulphate : this  decomposi- 
tion takes  place  more  rapidly  in  concentrated  than  in  diluted  solutions.  Crystallized 
sodium  sulphovinate  dissolves  at  ordinary  temperatures  in  a little  more  than  half  its 
weight  of  water,  and  is  soluble  in  glycerin  and  ordinary  alcohol,  sparingly  soluble  in 
absolute  alcohol,  and  insoluble  in  ether.  Its  solution  is  neutral  to  test-paper  and  has  a 
slightly  bitter  afterward  sweetish  taste. 

Tests. — The  aqueous  solution  of  the  salt  should  yield  only  a slight  precipitate  with 
barium  chloride  (sulphate),  should  not  be  colored  by  hydrogen  sulphide  (absence  of  lead), 
and  should  not  be  rendered  turbid  by  sodium  carbonate  (absence  of  lead,  barium,  and 
calcium). 

Allied  Salt. — Sodium  Sulphomethylate,  NaCH3S04.H20.  This  is  prepared  precisely  like  the 
preceding  salt,  except  that  methylic  alcohol  is  substituted  for  ordinary  alcohol.  It  resembles  the 
sulphovinate  in  properties,  and  has  been  recommended  for  similar  purposes. 

Action  and  Uses. — Sodium  sulphovinate  was  proposed  as  a laxative,  on  the  ground 
of  its  being  almost  tasteless  and  having  but  little  tendency  to  occasion  colic ; but,  how- 
ever real  these  advantages  may  be,  they  are  outweighed  by  its  liability  to  decomposition 
and  to  occasion  unpleasant  symptoms  in  consequence  of  its  being  imperfectly  prepared. 
The  dose  is  about  Gm.  16  (^ss). 

Sodjum  sulphomethylate  was  proposed  by  Rabuteau  (1879)  as  a purgative  salt. 
10  (Gm.  of  it,  dissolved  in  25  Gm.  of  water,  injected  into  a dog’s  veins,  occasioned  con- 
stipation. 15  Gm.  (1  ounce),  dissolved  in  2 wine-glassfuls  of  water  and  given  to  a woman 
in  two  doses,  caused  a free  evacuation  of  the  bowels.  An  examination  of  the  urine 
showed  that  the  salt  was  excreted  as  a sulphate.  It  is  too  unstable  to  become  of  practi- 
cal value,  although  its  freedom  from  unpleasant  taste  recommends  it. 

A tannate  of  sodium  has  been  proposed.  It  was  made  by  dissolving  5 Gm.  of  tannic 
acid  in  170  Gm.  of  water,  and  saturating  with  sodium  bicarbonate.  A tablespoonful  of 
it  was  administered  every  two  hours  in  several  cases  of  albuminuria,  but  in  no  instance 
did  it  lessen  the  discharge  of  albumen,  and  in  more  than  one  it  seems  to  have  been 
chargeable  with  producing  fatal  uraemia  ( Centralbl.  f.  d.  ges.  Therap.fi.  186). 

SODII  VALERIANAS,  Br. — Sodium  Valerianate. 

Sodse  valerianas , Br. ; Natrium  valerianicum,  Valerianas  sodicus  ( [natricus ). — Sodium 
valerate , E. ; VaUrianate  de  soude,  Fr. ; Baldriansaures  Natron , G. 

Formula  NaC5H902.  Molecular  weight  123.77. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Amylic  Alcohol  (Fusel  Oil)  4 fluidounces ; Potassium 
Dichromate  9 ounces ; Sulphuric  Acid  61  fluidounces ; Solution  of  Soda  a sufficiency ; 
Distilled  Water  1 gallon.  Dilute  the  sulphuric  acid  with  10  fluidounces  of  the  water, 


SOLID  A GO. 


1489 


and  dissolve  the  potassium  dichromate  in  the  remainder  of  the  water  with  the  aid  of 
heat.  When  both  liquids  are  cold,  mix  them  with  the  fusel  oil  in  a matrass,  with  occa- 
sional brisk  agitation,  until  the  temperature  of  the  mixture  has  fallen  to  about  90°  F. 
Connect  the  matrass  with  a condenser,  and  distil  until  about  half  a gallon  of  liquid  has 
passed  over.  Saturate  the  distilled  liquid  accurately  with  the  solution  of  soda,  remove 
any  oil  which  floats  on  the  surface,  evaporate  till  watery  vapor  ceases  to  escape,  and  then 
raise  the  heat  cautiously  so  as  to  liquefy  the  salt.  When  the  product  has  cooled  and 
solidified,  break  it  into  pieces,  and  immediately  put  it  into  a stoppered  bottle. — Br. 

This  is  a modification  of  Trautwein’s  process  (1845).  An  excess  of  sulphuric  acid  lib- 
erates from  potassium  dichromate  chromium  trioxide,  which  in  the  presence  of  amylic  alco- 
hol is  deoxidized,  and  then  combines  with  the  sulphuric  acid  to  form  chromic  sulphate, 
while  the  amylic  alcohol  is  oxidized  to  valerianic  acid.  The  reaction  takes  place  according 
to  the  equation  3C5HnOH  -|-  2K2Cr207  -f  8H2S04  = 3C5H10O2  -f  2K2S04  + 2Cr2(S04);4  + 
11H20.  On  subjecting  the  liquid  to  distillation,  the  residue  in  the  retort  will  contain 
potassium  and  chromium  sulphates,  and  in  the  distillate  will  be  found  the  valerianic  acid. 
A small  portion  of  the  fusel  oil  escapes  oxidation,  and  is  contained  in  the  distillate  com- 
bined with  valerianic  acid  to  amylo-valerianic  ether  or  amyl  valerianate  ( valerate ),  also 
known  as  apple  oil  from  its  odor  when  largely  diluted ; its  composition  is  C5H11C5H902. 
On  the  addition  of  caustic  soda  the  valerianic  acid  is  neutralized  to  sodium  valerianate, 
and  the  amyl  valerianate  separates  as  an  oily  liquid,  which  may,  however,  be  decomposed, 
by  warming  it  with  an  additional  quantity  of  soda,  into  sodium  valerianate  and  amylic 
alcohol.  The  latter  separates  as  an  oily  stratum,  which  is  removed,  and  the  clear  solution 
evaporated  until  all  the  water  has  been  expelled. 

Properties. — Thus  prepared,  sodium  valerianate  forms  a white  crystalline  mass 
which  is  rather  unctuous  to  the  touch,  and  has  a neutral  or  slight  alkaline  reaction, 
a weak  odor  of  valerian  when  perfectly  dry,  and  a sweet  and  valerian-like  taste.  It 
melts  at  140°  C.  (284°  F.)  without  decomposition  to  a colorless  liquid,  and  on  cooling 
congeals  crystalline ; at  a higher  heat  it  gives  off  pungent  acid  vapors  and  inflammable 
gas,  and  leaves  42.75  per  cent,  of  sodium  carbonate.  The  salt  is  freely  soluble  in  alcohol 
and  water,  and  on  exposure  to  the  atmosphere  liquefies  from  the  absorption  of  water.  On 
the  addition  of  diluted  sulphuric  acid  a strong  odor  of  valerianic  acid  is  given  otf. 

Tests. — The  solution  of  sodium  valerianate  in  water  should  not  be  colored  by  hydro- 
gen sulphide  and  ammonium  sulphide  (absence  of  metals),  and  should  yield  no  precipitate 
with  barium  chloride  (absence  of  sulphate). 

Action  and  Uses. — This  preparation  is  active  only  through  the  valerianic  acid  it 
contains.  The  complaints  in  which  it  is  used,  slight  functional  derangements  of  the 
nervous  system,  are  much  more  efficiently  relieved  by  the  valerianate  of  ammonium. 
The  dose  is  Gm.  0.06-0.30  (gr.  j-v). 

SOLIDAGO. — Golden  Rod. 

Verge  d’or,  Fr. ; Goldruthe,  G. ; Vara  de  oro , Sp. 

The  leaves  and  tops  of  Solidago  odora,  Aiton. 

Nat.  Ord. — Composite,  Asteroidese. 

Description. — The  sweet-scented  golden  rod,  is  a native  of  the  United  States  and 
Canada,  and  grows  on  the  borders  of  woods  and  thickets  and  in  dry  or  sandy  fields.  The 
stem  is  about  1 M.  (40  inches)  high,  simple,  slender,  and  nearly  smooth,  or  somewhat 
pubescent  in  lines.  The  leaves  are  numerous,  alternate,  sessile,  about  5 Cm.  (2  inches) 
long,  linear-lanceolate,  entire,  acute,  pellucid-punctate,  smooth,  and  on  the  margin  some- 
what rough.  The  flowers  are  in  a terminal  pyramidal  panicle,  composed  of  spreading 
racemes,  bearing  the  flower-heads  on  one  side  ; these  are  small,  have  lance-linear  appressed 
yellowish  scales,  and  contain  three  or  four  oblong  ray-florets  and  several  tubular  disk- 
florets,  all  of  a yellow  color,  and  with  terete  akenes  and  a simple  bristly  pappus.  The 
leaves  when  bruised  have  an  agreeable  anise-like  odor  and  a sweetish  aromatic  taste.  The 
flowers  are  likewise  pleasantly  aromatic  ; they  appear  in  August  and  September.  In  some 
places  the  plant  is  known  as  blue  mountain-tea. 

Constituents. — The  principal  constituent  is  volatile  oil  ; that  obtained  from  the 
flowers  differs  from  that  contained  in  the  leaves,  which  appears  to  be  related  to  oil 
of  anise. 

Other  Species. — Solidago  Virga-aurea,  Linn6.  This  is  a variable  species,  indigenous  to 
Europe,  Northern  Asia,  and  on  this  continent  to  Canada  and  the  northern  portion  of  the  United 
States.  It  is  from  60-90  Cm.  (2  to  3 feet)  high,  branched  above,  has  lanceolate  or  lance-oblong, 
94 


1490 


SOPHORA. 


petiolate,  and  more  or  less  serrate  leaves,  and  bears  the  flowers  in  erect  simple  wand-like  racemes, 
forming  a terminal  panicle.  The  flower-heads  contain  eight  or  ten  ligulate  and  several  tubular 
disk-florets  of  a yellow  color.  The  flowering  herb  has  an  aromatic  odor  and  a bitterish  and 
somewhat  astringent  taste,  and  has  been  used  in  Europe  as  herba  virgaurece.  The  oblique  thin 
rhizome  has  likewise  been  employed. 

Action  and  Uses. — Sweet-scented  golden  rod  owes  its  virtues  to  the  volatile  oil 
which  it  contains,  and  is  stimulant,  irritant,  rubefacient,  anodyne,  and  carminative.  The 
fresh-bruised  plant  is  applied  to  check  haemorrhage  from  wounds,  and  the  powdered  dried 
leaves  employed  as  a snuff  for  epistaxis.  Its  infusion  is  much  used  in  country  practice 
to  produce  diaphoresis , to  allay  colic , promote  menstruation , and  to  cover  the  taste  of 
nauseous  medicines.  For  the  last  purpose  the  essential  oil  is  to  be  preferred;  it  is  also, 
like  analogous  products,  sometimes  applied  as  a local  anodyne  in  neuralgia  and  rheuma- 
tism. 

An  infusion  may  be  prepared  with  Gm.  32  in  Gm.  500  (an  ounce  of  the  lierb  and  a 
pint)  of  hot  water,  and  given  in  doses  of  Gm.  64  (fSii).  The  oil  may  be  prescribed  in 
doses  of  Gm.  0.06  (ny  +). 

Solidago  virga  aurea  has  long  been  used  in  Europe  for  diseases  of  the  urinary  organs , 
and  recently  (1886-89)  diuretic  virtues  were  attributed  to  it  ( Therap . Monatsh .,  iii.  334; 
Lancet , Sept.  1889,  p.  660  ; Therap.  Gaz.,  xiii.  464).  Baccharis  genistelloides  is  very 
bitter,  and  serves  as  a substitute  for  wormwood  in  dyspepsia  and  atonic  diarrhoea , and  in 
the  so-called  liver  complaints  associated  with  them. 

SOPHORA.— Sophora. 

Sophora  speciosa,  Bentham. 

Nat.  Ord. — Leguminosse,  Papilionacese. 

Description. — An  evergreen  ornamental  shrub  or  small  tree  indigenous  to  Western 
Texas.  It  has  smooth,  oddly  pinnate  leaves,  with  three  to  five  pairs  of  leaflets,  which 
are  about  25  Mm.  (1  inch)  long,  ovate  in  shape,  obtuse  or  somewhat  pointed,  dark-green 
and  glossy  above  and  pale-green  beneath.  The  flowers  are  in  dense  racemes,  blue  or 
tinged  with  white,  very  fragrant,  and  have  a bell-shaped  small  calyx  and  ten  nearly  free 
stamens.  The  pod  is  indehiscent,  5 to  8 Cm.  (2-3  inches)  long,  nearly  terete,  or  more  or 
less  constricted  between  the  seeds,  tough,  and  covered  with  a pale  brownish-gray  pubes- 
cence. The  seeds  are  globular-ovate,  about  1 Cm.  (-|  inch)  long,  somewhat  depressed  on 
the  hilum,  and  of  a bright-red  color. 

Constituents. — Dr.  H.  C.  Wood  (1877)  isolated  from  the  seeds  an  alkaloid,  soplior- 
ine , by  macerating  the  powder  for  several  hours  in  strong  alcohol,  exhausting  it  by  water 
acidulated  with  hydrochloric  acid,  adding  to  the  liquid  an  excess  of  sodium  carbonate,  and 
agitating  the  mixture  with  chloroform.  The  chloroform  solution  is  agitated  with  dilute 
hydrochloric  acid,  the  aqueous  liquid  evaporated  to  a syrup,  freed  from  gummy  matter 
by  strong  alcohol,  the  alcohol  evaporated,  and  the  treatment  with  sodium  carbonate  and 
chloroform  repeated.  Sophorine  is  nearly  white,  amorphous,  yields  with  chromic  and 
sulphuric  acids  a dirty  deep-purple  color,  passing  through  bright-green  and  bluish  into 
yellowish-brown,  and  produces  with  tincture  of  iron  chloride  a deep  almost  blood-red  hue, 
after  a time  acquiring  an  orange  tint. 

Allied  Plants. — Sophora  sericea,  Nuttall , is  herbaceous,  about  25  Cm.  (10  inches)  high,  silky- 
hairy,  and  grows  from  Nebraska  and  Colorado  to  Arizona  and  California.  Examined  by  F.  A. 
Wentz  (Rep.  Commiss.  Agric .,  1879),  the  seeds  as  well  as  the  root  and  plant  yielded  an  alkaloid, 
which  was  not  obtained  pure,  and  may  be  identical  with  sophorine. 

Sophora  japonica,  Linne , of  Eastern  Asia,  is  occasionally  cultivated  as  an  ornamental  tree. 
It  produces  a large  number  of  white  or  yellowish  flowers,  the  buds  of  which  are  used  as  a sub- 
stitute for  hop  and  as  a yellow  dye  under  the  name  of  waifa  or  Chinese  berries.  The  coloring 
matter  was  regarded  by  Stein  as  being  identical  with  rutin , but  P.  Foerster  (1882)  obtained  from 
it — his  sophorin — 57.6  per  cent,  of  isodulcit  and  46.8  of  sophoretin , which  resembles  quercetin, 
but  is  not  identical  with  it. 

Action. — According  to  the  experiments  of  Dr.  H.  C.  Wood,  its  properties  depend 
upon  an  alkaloid  which  in  frogs  produced  a rapid  loss  of  reflex  activity  and  power  of 
voluntary  movement,  due  to  its  action  upon  the  spinal  marrow.  In  a cat  a large  dose  of 
it  speedily  occasioned  marked  weakness  in  the  limbs,  disturbance  of  the  respiration,  and 
convulsive  movements,  with  loss  of  consciousness.  A smaller  dose  excited  vomiting, 
great  muscular  weakness,  profound  quietude,  and  deep  sleep,  lasting  some  hours,  and 
ending  in  recovery.  It  is  stated  that  sophora-beans  are  occasionally  used  by  the  Indians 
in  Western  Texas  as  an  intoxicant — that  half  a bean  will  produce  a delirious  exhilira- 


SORB  US.— SPA R TETNJE  SULPHAS. 


1491 


tion,  followed  by  a sleep  that  lasts  for  several  days ; and  it  is  asserted  that  a whole 
bean  will  kill  a man.  The  peculiarities  of  sophora-beans,  as  thus  described,  invite  a 
fuller  investigation  (. Phila . Med.  Times , vii.  510). 

SORBUS. — Mountain- Ash. 

Sorbes,  Fr. ; Eberesche , Vogelbeere , G. 

The  fruit  of  Pyrus  (Sorbus,  Linne , Mespilus,  Scopoli ) aucuparia,  Gsertner. 

Nat.  Ord. — Rosaceae,  Pomese. 

Description. — This  species  of  Sorbus,  which  is  also  known  as  rowan  tree , is  a medium- 
sized tree  indigenous  to  Europe  and  Western  Asia  and  cultivated  for  ornament  in  North 
America.  It  has  oddly  pinnate  leaves,  with  obtuse,  on  the  lower  side  downy  leaflets,  and 
bears  numerous  small,  globular,  juicy,  berry-like  fruits,  which  are  of  a bright-red  color, 
are  crowned  by  the  calyx  limb,  contain  three  or  four  cells,  each  with  two  seeds,  and  have 
an  acid  taste. 

Constituents. — According  to  Liebig,  mountain-ash  berries  when  unripe  contain 
tartaric  acid,  but  when  ripe  malic  and  citric  acids.  Byschl  (1854)  determined  also  the 
presence  of  tannin,  acrid,  bitter,  and  coloring  principles,  fermentable  sugar,  and  of  non- 
fermentable  sugar,  which  had  previously  been  obtained  by  Pelouze  (1852)  by  setting  the 
juice  aside  for  about  a year,  and  then  evaporating.  This  sorbin , Cj2H240]2,  crystallizes 
in  colorless,  hard,  very  sweet  prisms,  separates  cuprous  oxide  from  an  alkaline  solu- 
tion of  copper,  and  is  not  altered  by  boiling  with  dilute  acids.  Sorbit , 2C6H1406H20, 
obtained  by  Boussingault  (1872)  from  the  fermented  juice,  is  isomeric  with  mannit  and 
dulcit,  is  very  sparingly  soluble  in  cold  water,  and  melts  at  102°  C.  (215.6°  F.),  and 
when  anhydrous  at  110°  C.  (230°  F.).  G.  Merck  and  A.  W.  Hofmann  (1859)  obtained 
parasorbic  acid,  an  oily  liquid  of  an  aromatic  odor,  slightly  soluble  in  water,  freely  so  in 
alcohol  and  ether,  and  when  heated  under  pressure  with  potassa  converted  into  crystal- 
lizable  sorbic  acid.  Both  acids  have  the  composition  C6H802.  Wick  (1851)  prepared 
amygdalin  from  the  bark  and  buds  of  the  mountain-ash. 

Allied  Plants. — The  American  mountain-ash,  Pyrus  (Sorbus,  Marshall ) americana,  Be  Can- 
dolle, and  P.  (Sorbus,  Roemer)  sambucifolia,  Chamisso  et  Schlechtendal , resemble  the  preceding 
species,  but  have  somewhat  smaller  fruits  : the  former  species  grows  in  the  Alleghanies,  the  latter 
in  the  Rocky  Mountains,  and  both  extend  to  New  England  and  far  northward  through  Canada. 

Pyrus  coronaria,  Linne  ( crab-apple ),  and  P.  arbutifolia,  Linne  jil.  ( choke-berry ),  have  anal- 
ogous properties. 

Cratiegus,  haw , cockspur-thorn,  etc.  The  bark,  leaves,  and  fruit  of  these  thorny  shrubs  are 
astringent  and  tonic. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  unripe  fruit  and  the  bark  of  the  moantain-ash  and  its 
European  congeners  are  extremely  astringent,  and  are  used  in  infusions,  decoctions,  and 
poultices  to  constringe  relaxed  parts , as  the  throat , anus , and  vagina,  and  internally  to 
check  diarrhoea , etc.  The  ripe  fruit  is  much  used  to  prepare  an  infusion  whose  astringent 
and  acidulous  qualities  render  it  a pleasant  gargle  in  acute  affections  of  the  tonsils  and 
pharynx. 

SPARTEINE  SULPHAS,  U.  Sparteine  Sulphate. 

Sidfate  de  spartein,  Fr.  ; Sparteinsulfat,  G. 

Formula  C,5H26N2H2S04  + 4H20.  Molecular  weight  403.23. 

The  neutral  sulphate  of  an  alkaloid  obtained  from  Scoparius. — U.  S. 

Preparation. — The  alkaloid  sparteine  was  first  isolated  by  Stenhouse  (1853)  by 
extracting  the  plant  with  water  acidulated  with  sulphuric  acid,  concentrating,  decom- 
posing with  sodium  hydroxide,  and  distilling.  For  purification  the  hydrochlorate  is 
prepared  and  the  solution  evaporated  to  dryness,  when  the  salt  is  decomposed  with  solid 
potassium  hydroxide.  The  alkaloid  as  thus  obtained  is  a liquid  distilling  at  288°  C., 
very  slightly  soluble  in  water,  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  and  chloroform,  insoluble  in  ben- 
zene and  benzin.  The  sulphate  is  prepared  from  the  alkaloid  by  simple  neutralization 
with  sulphuric  acid  and  crystallizing. 

Properties. — Sparteine  sulphate  forms  “ colorless,  white,  prismatic  crystals,  or  a 
granular  powder,  odorless  and  having  a slightly  saline  and  somewhat  bitter  taste.  Liable 
to  absorb  moisture  when  exposed  to  damp  air.  Very  soluble  in  water  and  alcohol. 
When  heated  to  about  83°  C.  (181.4°  F.),  the  salt  begins  to  lose  its  water  of  crystal- 
lization, all  of  which  escapes  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.).  At  about  136°  C.  (276.8°  F.)  it  melts, 
and  upon  ignition  it  is  consumed,  leaving  no  residue.  The  salt  is  neutral  to  litmus-paper. 


1492 


SPIGELIA. 


If  25  Cc.  of  ether  be  added  to  about  0.1  Gm.  of  sparteine  sulphate  in  a test-tube,  then  a 
few  drops  of  dilute  ammonia-water,  so  that  the  latter  shall  not  be  in  excess,  and  after- 
ward adding  an  ethereal  solution  of  iodine  (1  in  50)  until  the  liquid,  when  shaken,  turns 
from  an  orange  to  a dark  reddish-brown  color,  the  bottom  and  sides  of  the  test-tube  will 
after  a short  time  be  found  coated  with  minute,  dark  greenish-brown  crystals,  distinctly 
seen  with  a lens  after  the  liquid  has  been  poured  out.  On  shaking  0.05  Gm.  of  the  salt, 
in  a test-tube,  with  5 Cc.  of  potassium  or  sodium  hydroxide  test-solution,  the  liquid  will  at 
first  be  turbid,  and  small  drops  of  sparteine  will  gradually  collect  on  the  surface.  If  a 
strip  of  moistened  red  litmus-paper  be  suspended  in  the  mouth  of  the  test-tube  and  a 
gentle  heat  then  applied,  the  test-paper  will  gradually  acquire  a blue  color,  but  no  am- 
moniacal  odor  should  be  perceptible  (absence  of  ammonium  salts).” — U.  S. 

Action  and  Uses. — These  are  sufficiently  discussed  under  Scoparius.  The 
general  result  of  experience  seems  to  be  that  neither  preparation  can  be  relied  upon  to 
regulate  the  heart’s  action  or  to  produce  diuresis.  The  average  dose  of  sparteine  sul- 
phate is  from  Gm.  0.016-0.03  (gr.  i— i)  by  the  mouth,  and  about  half  these  quantities 
hypodermically. 

SPIGELIA,  U.  S.— Spigelia. 

Pinkroot , E. ; Spigelie  du  Maryland ',  Fr. ; Maryland ische  Spigelie , G. 

The  root  of  Spigelia  marilandica,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 180. 

Nat.  Ord. — Loganiacese. 

Origin. — This  plant  is  variously  known  as  Maryland  pink,  Carolina  pink,  and  worm- 
grass.  It  grows  in  rich,  shady  woods,  chiefly  in  the  southern  part  of  the  United  States, 
but  is  found  northward  to  Pennsylvania  and  Wisconsin.  The  stem  is  from  25-50  Cm. 
(10  to  20  inches)  high,  simple,  round  below,  quadrangular  above,  and  has  opposite, 
sessile,  acute,  ovate-lanceolate  leaves,  and  a terminal  spike  of  six  or  eight  showy 
flowers,  with  funnel-form  or  somewhat  club-shaped  corollas,  which  are  nearly  5 Cm. 
(2  inches)  long,  externally  scarlet-red  and  internally  yellow,  and  have  the  stamens 
exserted.  The  plant  flowers  in  June  and  July,  and  produces  two-celled  and  few-seeded 
capsules. 

Description. — Pinkroot  consists  of  a rhizome  with  numerous  rootlets.  The  rhizome 
is  from  5—10  Cm.  (2  to  4 inches)  long,  simple  or  somewhat  branched,  bent  in  various 
directions,  but  generally  horizontal,  about  3 Mm.  (U  inch)  thick,  somewhat  wrinkled  lon- 
gitudinally, frequently  with  a portion  of  the  recent  stem  attached,  and  on  the  upper  side 
with  very  short  remnants  of  stems,  which  are  from  3-6  Mm.  (J-  to  \ inch)  apart,  and  are 
separated  by  cup-shaped  scars.  The  numerous  curved  and  bent  fibrous  rootlets  emanate 
chiefly  from  below  and  the  sides  of  the  rhizome,  and  are  about  10  Cm.  (4  inches)  long, 
brittle  and  angularly  wrinkled  longitudinally.  The  color  is  brown  or  purplish-brown  ; the 
rootlets  are  somewhat  lighter.  Pinkroot  has  a faint  aromatic  odor  and  a sweetish  after- 
ward slightly  bitter,  not  disagreeable,  taste.  When  the  rhizome  is  cut  transversely,  there 
is  seen  a thin  bark,  with  a dark  outer  layer  and  a light  purplish-brown  inner  layer 
covering  the  pale  yellowish  wood ; the  central  pith  is  large,  somewhat  above  the  middle, 
and  often  discolored  or  decayed.  The  rootlets  have  a relatively  thicker  bark  and  no 
central  pith. 

Spigelia  is  occasionally  seen  mixed  with  a few  roots  of  several  plants,  doubtless  from 
careless  collection,  and  has  been  observed  as  an  accidental  admixture  in  serpentaria.  We 
have  not  observed  any  adulterations  except  earthy  matter  and  stems,  but  we  have  fre- 
quently seen  used  in  its  place  the  root  of  Phlox,  described  below. 

Allied  Drugs. — Spigelia  anthelmintica,  Linn6 ; Spigelie  anthelmintique,  Fr.  Cod.  This  an- 
nual plant  of  tropical  America  has  lance-ovate  acute  leaves,  the  upper  ones  being  in  whorls  of 
four,  and  pale-reddish  or  purplish  flowers  not  over  12  Mm.  (J  inch)  long ; its  root  is  short, 
blackish,  and  internally  whitish,  and  is  divided  into  numerous  long,  thin  branches.  The  plant 
has  in  the  fresh  state  a nauseous  odor,  is  bitter  and  acrid,  and  is  employed  like  pinkroot. 

Phlox  Carolina,  Linn4  (nat.  ord.  Polemoniaceae),  together  with  one  or  more  allied  species,  is 

known  in  some  of  the  Southern  States  as  Carolina,  or  Georgih  pink.  That  much  of  the  commer- 
cial pinkroot  is  derived  from  this  plant  was  shown  by  Dr.  A.‘W.  Miller  (1875).  This  drug  is  of 
a lighter  brown  or  brownish-yellow  color,  and  consists  of  a rather  knotty  rhizome  with  thickish, 
straight,  and  rigid  rootlets,  from  which  the  bark  is  easily  removed,  exposing  a straw-colored 
ligneous  thread.  The  root  is  employed  like  spigelia,  and  is  said  to  be  equally  efficient.  The 
root  of  Phlox  glaberrima,  Linn6,  appears  to  be  likewise  used  in  some  localities  ; it  is  somewhat 
darker  and  less  rigid  than  the  preceding,  and  more  closely  resembles  spigelia. 

Constituents. — Pinkroot  was  examined  by  Dr.  R.  H.  Stabler  (1857),  who  found 
in  it  a little  volatile  oil,  tasteless  resin,  wax,  tannin,  and  a bitter  principle  which  was  not 


SPIRAEA. 


1493 


obtained  in  the  pure  state,  but  was  ascertained  to  be  not  precipitated  by  lead  acetate, 
to  be  soluble  in  water  and  alcohol,  and  to  be  insoluble  in  ether  ; it  appears  to  be  precipi- 
tated by  tannin.  W.  L.  Dudley  (1879)  obtained  by  distilling  pinkroot  with  milk  of 
lime  a volatile  alkaloid,,  spigeline , which  gives  with  iodine  a brownish-red  precipitate, 
with  metatungstic  acid  a white  flocculent  precipitate,  and  with  Mayer’s  test  a white  crys- 
talline precipitate  soluble  in  alcohol  and  ether,  and  differing  from  the  precipitates  of  other 
alkaloids  by  this  test  in  being  soluble  in  acids. 

The  West  Indian  plant  was  analyzed  by  Feneulle  (1823)  and  Ricord-Madiana  (1828), 
but  the  active  principle  was  not  isolated. 

Action  and  Uses. — Spigelia  marilandica  appears  to  have  been  used  medicinally 
by  the  aborigines  of  America,  from  whom  Lining  derived  a knowledge  of  its  virtues  in 
1754.  It  was  early  recommended  by  Garden  and  by  Chalmers  of  South  Carolina.  The 
latter  says  of  it:  “ Of  all  the  vermifuges  I am  acquainted  with,  Loricera  (called  Indian 
Pink  here)  hath  the  best  effects ; but  it  must  be  properly  guarded  to  prevent  a drowsi- 
ness, violent  pains  in  the  forehead  and  eyes,  and  a temporary  loss  of  sight  which  often 
ensues  from  the  use  of  it.  At  such  times  the  eyes  lose  their  luster  and  the  pupils  seem 
much  dilated ; nay,  it  affects  the  nervous  system  to  such  a degree  that  convulsions  some- 
times supervene,  as  happened  (and  they  proved  mortal  the  same  day)  to  two  lusty 
children  in  one  family,  of  seven  and  five  years  of  age,  owing  to  the  too  free  use  of  that 
plant  before  its  properties  were  fully  known  to  us.  The  best  corrections  of  it  are  serpen- 
taria,  volatiles,  aromaticks,  and  other  such  things  as  excite  and  support  the  nervous 
power”  (An  Account  of  the  Weather  and  Diseases  of  South  Carolina , Lond.,  1776,  i.  67). 
Thompson  found  that  it  produced  acceleration  of  the  pulse,  flushed  face,  drowsiness,  and 
stiffness  of  the  eyelids  (Eberle,  Therapeutics , p.  155).  Spalsbury  relates  that  an  infusion 
of  3 drachms  of  the  root  in  3 gills  of  boiling  water  was  ordered  for  a child  four  years 
of  age,  to  be  taken  in  eight  equal  doses  at  intervals  of  two  hours.  After  the  third 
dose  the  skin  became  hot  and  dry,  the  pulse  110  and  irregular  ; the  face,  especially  about 
the  eyes,  including  the  lids,  was  much  swollen,  and  the  pupils  were  widely  dilated 
( Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  Apr.  1855,  p.  72).  In  other  cases  have  been  noted 
nervous  excitement  of  an  hysterical  sort,  headache,  strabismns,  tremor  of  the  tongue, 
and  general  muscular  trembling  on  making  exertion.  Analogous  phenomena  were  noted 
by  Dr.  H.  A.  Hare  when  he  gave  3 ounces  of  the  fluid  extract  of  spigelia  to  a dog 
weighing  40  pounds.  They  included  hurried  expiration,  dilated  pupils,  fixed  internal 
strabismus,  exophthalmus,  retching,  unsteady  gait,  dry  mouth  and  nostrils,  general 
motor  paralysis,  deep  sleep,  and  coma  with  slow  respiration,  which  ceased  along  with  the 
movements  of  the  heart.  In  the  frog  the  same  symptoms  occurred.  He  inferred  from 
his  experiment  that  the  drug  induces  spinal  rather  than  cerebral  paralysis,  and  is  a direct 
depressant  of  the  heart  as  well  as  of  the  respiratory  centre  ( Med . Mews,  1.  286). 

It  is  said  that  an  infusion  of  spigelia  is  sometimes  given  as  a substitute  for  ordinary  tea 
to  children  liable  to  verminous  disorders.  It  is  commonly  associated  with  purgatives  when 
used  as  an  anthelmintic,  and  may  be  concluded  to  act  upon  intestinal  worms  by  benumb- 
ing if  not  killing  them,  after  which  the  associated  medicine  expels  them  from  the  bowels. 
In  some  states  of  chronic  irritation  simulating  those  which  usually  attend  the  presence 
of  lumbricoid  ascarides  in  the  intestines  spigelia  is  of  marked  advantage,  but  its  mode 
of  action  is  obscure.  The  most  usual  and  the  best  form  of  the  medicine  is  that  known 
as  “ worm  tea  ” — viz.:  R.  Spigelia  Gm.  16  (jounce);  senna  and  fennel-seed,  of  each 
Gm.  8 (120  grains);  manna  Gm.  32  (1  ounce);  boiling  water  Gm.  500  (1  pint). 
Infuse.  Sig.  Half  a wine-glassful  three  times  a day  for  a child  two  years  old.  The  fluid 
extract  of  spigelia  and  senna  (U.  S.  P.  1870)  (see  page  706)  represented  this  infusion 
sufficiently  well.  The  proper  remedies  for  the  toxical  effects  of  spigelia  are  wine,  am- 
monia, and  other  diffusible  stimulants. 

Spigelia  anthelmintica,  it  is  stated  by  Murray  ( Apparatus  Medicam.,  i.  545),  was  first 
brought  into  notice  about  1750  by  Browne,  who  said  that  it  has  been  long  used  as  a 
vermifuge  by  the  Indians  and  the  negroes  of  the  West  Indies  and  South  America.  On 
his  recommendation  it  was  introduced  into  England  by  Hinckley,  Brocklesby,  and  others. 
Narcotic  properties  were  attributed  to  it. 

SPIR^BIA. — Hardhack. 

Spiraea  tomentosa,  Dinne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Rosaceae,  Roseae. 

Origin. — Hardhack,  also  known  as  steeple-hush,  wliitecap,  and,  like  other  species  of 
the  same  genus,  as  meadow-sweet , is  a small  North  American  shrub  growing  from  Canada 


1494 


SPIRITUS. 


southward  to  South  Carolina.  It  is  .9-1.2  M.  (3  or  4 feet)  high,  has  a slender,  red-brown, 
branching  stem  with  hard  brittle  wood,  and  ovate-lanceolate,  serrate,  dark-green,  and 
beneath  rusty  tomentose  leaves.  The  root  is  branching,  covered  with  a thin  brown  bark, 
and  contains  a whitish,  hard,  and  tasteless  wood ; the  taste  of  the  bark  is  bitterish  and 
strongly  astringent.  The  small  purplish-red  flowers  with  conspicuous  stamens  are  in 
short  racemes  crowded  into  a dense  pyramidal  panicle,  make  their  appearance  in  July  and 
August,  and  produce 'four  or  five  one-seeded  follicles.  The  plant,  collected  while  in 
bloom,  is  often  employed  in  preference  to  the  root;  it  has  an  agreeable  though  not  a 
strong  aromatic  odor,  and  a very  astringent  somewhat  bitter  taste. 

Constituents. — Hardhack  has  not  been  analyzed  ; it  evidently  contains  tannin,  vola- 
tile oil,  etc. 

Other  Species. — Spiraea  Aruncus,  Linn6. — Goat’s  beard,  E. ; Barbe  de  chevre,  Fr. ; Bocks- 
bart,  G. — It  grows  in  Europe  and  in  North  America  westward  from  the  Catskill  and  Alleghany 
Mountains.  It  is  a perennial  herb  about  90  Cm.  (3  feet)  high,  has  smooth  thrice-pinnate  leaves, 
with  thin,  lance-oblong,  sharply  serrate,  and  pointed  leaflets,  and  produces  numerous  small  white 
flowers  in  slender  racemes.  It  has  an  agreeable  odor  and  an  aromatic,  astringent,  and  bitter- 
ish taste. 

Spiraea  ulmaria,  Linn4 , indigenous  to  Europe  and  cultivated  in  gardens,  is  an  herbaceous 
perennial,  with  interruptedly  pinnate  leaves  and  ovate  or  lance-oblong  serrate  leaflets.  The 
flowers  ( TJbnaire , Rene-des-pres , Fr.  Cod.)  are  in  long-peduncled  corymbs,  small,  white,  and  in 
cultivation  usually  double.  This,  like  other  herbaceous  species  of  Spiraea,  contains  salicylic 
aldehyde  or  salicylous  acid,  C7H602,  which  is  a colorless  strongly  aromatic  oil,  boiling  at  196°  C. 
(385°  F.),  and  in  aqueous  solution  colored  dark-violet  by  ferric  chloride. 

Spiraea  filipendula,  Linne,  likewise  a European  plant,  has  numerous  long  radicles,  which 
near  their  lower  end  are  enlarged  to  pear-shaped  tuberous  bodies,  sometimes  moniliform.  These 
are  25-38  Mm.  (1  or  \\  inches)  long,  blackish-brown  externally,  internally  pale  red-brown,  and 
have  a sweetish,  bitterish,  and  somewhat  astringent  taste. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  late  Drs.  Griffith  and  Ives  remarked  that  the  officinal  por- 
tion of  the  root  (1870)  is  the  least  valuable  part  of  the  plant,  the  bark  and  the  leaves 
being  more  efficient.  It  is  said  to  have  been  used  by  the  aborigines  of  this  country,  but 
was  first  brought  to  the  notice  of  physicians  in  1810.  Its  action  was  compared  with  that 
of  rhatany,  and  it  was  alleged  not  to  disorder  the  stomach  even  when  taken  in  large  doses. 
It  was  used  in  various  forms  of  diarrhoea , including  that  of  typhoid  fever,  pulmonary 
consumption,  and  summer  complaint,  in  passive  haemorrhages  and  menorrhagia , in  decoc- 
tion as  an  injection  for  leucorrhoea , gleet,  etc.,  and  as  a dressing  for  fungous  ulcers.  The 
extract  has  an  agreeable  odor  and  an  astringent  bitter  taste,  and  may  be  prescribed  in  the 
dose  of  Gm.  0.30  (gr.  v)  or  more.  The  decoction,  made  by  boiling  Gm.  30  in  Gm.  500 
(an  ounce  of  the  plant  in  a pint)  of  water,  may  be  given  cold,  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  30-60 
(1  or  2 fluidounces).  Although  S.  tomentosa  is  somewhat  aromatic,  it  is  less  so  than 
some  other  species,  and  especially  S.  ulmaria,  which  was  formerly  in  vogue  as  a stimu- 
lant in  fevers,  as  serpentaria  is  now  used,  and  also  for  its  astringent  action  in  the  diseases 
mentioned  above.  It  appears  to  have  displayed  diuretic  virtues  in  several  forms  of 
dropsy.  In  Europe  an  infusion,  a decoction,  and  an  extract  of  it  are  employed.  To 
S.  ulmaria  has  been  attributed  the  power  of  overcoming  retention  of  urine  depending 
upon  enlarged  prostate  and  intercurrent  irritation  ( Edinh . Med.  Jour.,  xxviii.  1036). 


SPIRITUS.— Spirits. 

Alcoolats , Fr. ; Geiste,  G. 

Spirits  were  formerly  prepared  almost  exclusively  by  distilling  odorous  substances  with 
alcohol ; at  present,  however,  both  the  United  States  and  British  Pharmacopoeias  direct 
most  of  them  to  be  prepared  simply  by  dissolving  the  volatile  oils  and  other  volatile  com- 
pounds in  alcohol.  Since  odorous  principles  volatilize  only  sparingly  with  the  vapors  of 
alcohol,  but  more  freely  with  the  vapors  of  water,  distilled  spirits  are  made  with  alcohol 
sufficiently  diluted  with  water,  so  that  a portion  of  the  latter  remains  in  the  still  on  the 
completion  of  the  process.  The  German  Pharmacopoeia  usually  directs  alcohol  and  water 
in  the  proportion  of  3 parts  of  the  former  to  3 or  5 parts  of  the  latter ; after  due  mace- 
ration with  the  bruised  drug  4 parts  by  weight  of  distillate  are  recovered.  The  alcoolats 
of  the  French  Codex  are  generally  made  with  60  or  80  per  cent,  alcohol,  the  fresh  drugs 
being  used  whenever  practicable.  In  all  cases  the  alcohol  employed  should  be  free 
from  fusel  oil,  and  the  drugs  should  be  well  bruised  and  macerated  with  the  alcohol  for 


SPIRIT  US  JETHERIS. — SPIRIT  US  JETHERIS  NITROSI. 


1495 


one  or  several  days  before  distillation  is  commenced.  In  distilling  spirits  the  same  pre- 
caution should  be  adopted  as  in  the  distillation  of  medicated  waters  (see  page  247),  with 
this  addition,  that  ample  provision  be  made  for  the  complete  condensation  of  the 
vapors.  Heat  is  best  applied  by  means  of  steam  or  on  a small  scale  by  means  of  a 
salt-water  bath. 

SPIRITUS  iETHERIS,  U.  S.,  Br.— Spirit  of  Ether. 

Spiritus  sethereus , P.^  G. ; Liquor  anodynus  miner alis  Hoffmanni ; JEther  sulfuricus 
alcoolisatus,  Fr.  Cod. — Ether  hydrique  ( sulfurique ) alcoolise , Liqueur  anodine  d' Hoffmann, 
Fr.  ; Hoffmannstropfen , G. 

Preparation. — Ether  325  Cc. ; Alcohol  675  Cc. ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  them. — 
U.  S.  Ether  10  fluidounces ; rectified  spirit  20  fluidounces. — Br.  Ether  and  alcohol, 
of  each  equal  weight. — F.  Cod.  Ether  1 part,  alcohol  3 parts. — P.  G. 

This  preparation  is  used  in  Europe  as  a simplified  form  of  Hoffmann's  anodyne  and  for 
similar  purposes. 

SPIRITUS  iETHERIS  COMPOSITUS,  U.  S.,  Br.— Compound  Spirit  of 

Ether. 

Hoffmann's  anodyne , E. ; Liquor  nervine  de  Bang , Fr. ; Zusammengesetzter  JEtherwein- 
geist , G. 

Preparation. — Ether  325  Cc. ; Alcohol  650  Cc. ; Ethereal  Oil  25  Cc. ; to  make  1000 
Cc.  Mix  them. — U.  S. 

To  prepare  10  fluidounces  of  compound  spirit  of  ether,  mix  3?  fluidounces  of  ether,  2 
fluidrachms  of  ethereal  oil,  and  6J  fluidounces  of  alcohol. 

Oil  of  wine  (undiluted)  3 fluidrachms;  ether  8 fluidounces;  alcohol  16  fluidounces. — 
Br.  For  preparing  oil  of  wine  the  mixture  of  alcohol  and  sulphuric  acid  is  directed  to 
be  distilled  merely  until  it  begins  to  blacken.  (See  pp.  1103,  1104.) 

Properties. — Compound  spirit  of  ether  is  a colorless,  inflammable  liquid,  entirely 
volatilized  by  heat,  but  when  ignited  on  glass  or  porcelain  it  leaves  an  almost  invisible 
residue  having  an  acid  taste  and  reddening  blue  litmus-paper.  The  spirit  is  neutral  to 
test-paper,  or  has  only  a very  slight  acid  reaction.  It  has  an  aromatic  ethereal  odor  and  a 
pungent,  slightly  sweetish  taste.  When  mixed  with  water  a whitish  turbidity  is  produced 
from  the  separation  of  oil  of  wine,  and  a slight  opalescence  is  still  observed  if  40  drops 
of  the  spirit  are  mixed  with  a pint  of  water.  If  adulterated  with  a fixed  oil,  this  will  sepa- 
rate from  the  water  as  a thin  film,  which,  when  absorbed  by  bibulous  paper,  produces  a 
permanent  greasy  stain,  not  disappearing  by  heat.  On  evaporating  some  of  the  spirit 
with  an  excess  of  aqueous  solution  of  barium  chloride,  a white  precipitate  of  barium 
sulphate  is  produced. 

The  commercial  Hoffmann’s  anodyne  is  rarely  made  by  the  official  formula,  but  is 
obtained,  as  was  ascertained  by  Procter  (1852),  in  the  rectification  of  ether,  the  last 
fraction  of  the  distillate,  which  is  contaminated  with  light  and  a little  heavy  oil  of 
wine,  being  diluted  with  alcohol  and  water  so  as  somewhat  to  resemble  the  official 
article ; from  this  it  differs  in  producing  only  a slight  precipitate  with  barium  chloride. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  preparation  is  stimulant,  antispasmodic,  and  anodyne,  as 
are  all  preparations  of  alcohol,  but  in  this  one  the  addition  of  ether  and  ethereal  oil 
renders  its  action  more  prompt  and  lively.  Hence  it  is  universally  employed  to  allay 
restlessness , sleeplessness , and  nervous  disturbance  in  general,  especially  in  the  absence  of 
fever,  and  notably  in  the  manifold  manifestations  of  hysteria.  It  is  also  a convenient 
remedy  for  flatulent  and  so-called  uterine  colic.  In  may,  indeed,  be  used  in  all  the  cases 
for  which  sulphuric  ether  is  prescribed  internally,  and  with  superior  advantage.  The 
dose  is  from  Gm.  2-4  (f^ss-j),  properly  diluted  with  sweetened  water. 

SPIRITUS  ^ITHERIS  NITROSI,  V.  S.,  Br 1\  G.— Spirit  of  Nitrous 

Ether. 

Spiritus  nifri  dulcis , Spiritus  nitrico-sethereus. — Sweet  spirit  of  nitre , E. ; Ether  azoteux 
alcoolise , Liqueur  anodine  nifreuse , Fr.  ; Versiisster  Salpetergeist , G. 

An  alcoholic  solution  of  ethyl  nitrite  (C2H5N02  — 74.87),  yielding,  when  freshly  pre- 
pared and  tested  in  a nitrometer,  not  less  than  eleven  times  its  own  volume  of  nitrogen 
dioxide. — U.  S. 


1496 


SPIBITUS  JETHERIS  NITROSI. 


Preparation. — Sodium  Nitrite,  770  Gm.  ; Sulphuric  Acid,  520  Gm. ; Sodium  Car- 
bonate, 10  Gm. ; Potassium  Carbonate,  completely  deprived  of  water  by  drying,  30  Gm. ; 
Deodorized  Alcohol,  Water,  each  a sufficient  quantity.  Dissolve  the  sodium  nitrite  in 
1000  Cc.  of  water,  and  put  the  solution  into  a suitable  flask,  connected  with  a condenser 
kept  cold  by  ice-cold  water;  then  add  550  Cc.  of  deodorized  alcohol  and  mix  well. 
Through  a cork  fitted  into  the  mouth  of  the  flask  insert  a funnel-tube  dipping  below  the 
surface  of  the  liquid.  With  the  condenser  connect  a receiver,  and  keep  this  surrounded 
by  a mixture  of  common  salt  and  crushed  ice.  Then  gradually  introduce  into  the  flask, 
through  the  funnel-tube,  sulphuric  acid  previously  diluted  with  1000  Cc.  of  water. 
Distillation  will  usually  commence  before  the  whole  of  the  acid  has  been  added.  When 
all  the  acid  has  been  introduced,  regulate  the  distillation  by  the  application  or  withdrawal 
of  a gentle  heat  until  no  more  nitrous  ether  distils  over.  Wash  the  distillate,  first,  with 
100  Cc.  of  ice-cold  water  to  remove  any  alcohol  which  may  have  passed  over,  and  then 
remove  any  traces  of  acid  by  washing  the  ether  with  100  Cc.  of  ice-cold  water,  in  which 
the  sodium  carbonate  had  previously  been  dissolved.  Carefully  separate  the  ether  from 
the  aqueous  liquid,  and  agitate  it,  in  a well-stoppered  vial,  with  the  potassium  carbonate 
to  remove  traces  of  water.  Then  filter  it  through  a pellet  of  cotton,  in  a covered  fun- 
nel, into  a tared  bottle  containing  2000  Cc.  of  deodorized  alcohol.  Ascertain  the  weight 
of  the  nitrous  ether  filtered  into  the  alcohol  by  noting  the  increase  of  weight  of  the  tared 
bottle  and  contents,  and  then  add  enough  deodorized  alcohol  to  make  the  mixture  weigh 
twenty-two  times  the  weight  of  the  nitrous  ether  added.  Lastly,  transfer  the  product  to 
small,  dark,  amber-colored,  well-stoppered  vials,  and  keep  them  in  a cool  place,  remote 
from  lights  or  fire. — U S. 

Take  of  nitric  acid  3 fluidounces ; sulphuric  acid  2 fluidounces ; copper,  in  fine  wire 
(about  No.  25),  2 ounces  ; rectified  spirit  a sufficiency.  To  1 pint  of  the  spirit  add 
gradually  the  sulphuric  acid,  stirring  them  together ; then  add,  in  the  same  way,  3J  fluid- 
ounces  of  the  nitric  acid.  Put  the  mixture  into  a retort  or  other  suitable  apparatus  into 
which  the  copper  has  been  introduced  and  to  which  a thermometer  is  fitted.  Attach 
now  an  efficient  condenser,  and,  applying  a gentle  heat,  let  the  spirit  distil  at  a tempera- 
ture commencing  at  170°  F.  and  rising  to  175°  F.,  but  not  exceeding  180°  F.,  until  12 
fluidounces  have  passed  over  and  been  collected  into  a bottle  kept  cool,  if  necessary,  with 
ice-cold  water ; then  withdraw  the  heat,  and,  having  allowed  the  contents  of  the  retort 
to  cool,  introduce  the  remaining  i ounce  of  nitric  acid,  and  resume  the  distillation  as 
before  until  the  distilled  product  has  been  increased  to  15  fluidounces.  Mix  this  with  2 
pints  of  the  rectified  spirit,  or  as  much  as  will  make  the  product  correspond  to  the  test 
of  specific  gravity  and  percentage  of  ether  separated  by  calcium  chloride.  Preserve  it 
in  well-closed  vessels. — Br. 

In  the  process  of  the  U.  S.  P.,  which  is  a decided  improvement  on  former  official 
methods,  sodium  nitrite  is  decomposed  by  sulphuric  acid,  and  the  nitrous  acid,  in  its 
nascent  state,  attacks  the  alcohol,  forming  ethyl  nitrite  and  water,  as  follows  : NaN02-f 
H2S04  - HN02  + NaHS04 ; C2H5OH  + HN02  = C2H5N02  + H20.  The  ethyl  nitrite, 
together  with  some  aldehyde  and  undecomposed  alcohol,  distils  over,  and  is  purified  by 
washing  with  water  and  sodium  carbonate,  and  finally  freed  from  water  by  treatment  with 
anhydrous  potassium  carbonate.  68.93  parts  of  absolute  sodium  nitrite  are  capable  of 
producing  74.87  parts  of  ethyl  nitrite,  and  if  the  official  salt  (97.6  per  cent.  NaN02)  be 
used,  the  770  Gm.  ordered  in  the  above  formula  should  be  able  to  produce  816.28  Gm. 
of  ethyl  nitrite,  which  would  yield  17958  Gm.  of  the  official  spirit.  In  practice  there 
is  always  some  loss,  and  hence  the  necessity  of  ascertaining  the  exact  weight  of  the  puri- 
fied ether  before  adding  the  alcohol. 

The  second  formula  gives  the  process  of  Prof.  Redwood  (1867),  and  yields  good  results 
if  proper  attention  be  paid  to  the  strength  of  the  acids  and  the  alcohol,  and  to  the  tem- 
perature ; it  is,  however,  best  adapted  for  being  worked  on  a small  scale.  The  sulphuric 
acid,  in  the  presence  of  nitric  acid,  dissolves  the  copper,  forming  sulphate  of  copper  and 
setting  nitrous  acid  free,  which  in  its  nascent  state  acts  upon  the  alcohol,  producing 
nitrous  ether  and  water.  The  reaction  is  explained  by  the  equation  C2H5OH  + HN03  + 
H2S04  -{-  Cu  = C2H5N02  4-  CuS04  + 2H20.  (An  elaborate  paper  on  the  manufacture 
by  this  process  of  spirit, of  nitrous  ether  of  the  strength  required  by  the  U.  S.  P.  was 
read  by  Prof.  Diehl  (1877)  before  the  Louisville  College  of  Pharmacy.) 

Older  formulas  differ  from  Redwood’s  either  in  acting  upon  alcohol  directly  by  nitric 
acid  or  in  generating  nitric  acid  from  potassium  nitrate  and  sulphuric  acid  in  the  presence 
of  alcohol.  In  either  case  the  result  is  much  influenced  by  the  strength  of  the  acid  ana 
by  the  temperature,  and  a larger  quantity  of  aldehyde  is  always  thus  produced  than  in 


SPIRITUS  JETHERIS  NITROSI. 


1497 


the  presence  of  copper.  The  action  of  nitric  acid  upon  alcohol,  and  the  production  of 
aldehyde  are  explained  by  the  equation  2C2H5OH  + IIN03  = C2H40  + C2H5N02  + 
2H.,0.  The  German  Pharmacopoeia  directs  a mixture  of  5 parts  of  alcohol  and  3 of 
nitric  acid  to  be  set  aside  for  twelve  hours,  and  then  distilled  into  5 parts  of  alcohol,  the 
resulting  solution  being  neutralized  with  magnesia  and  rectified. 

It  has  likewise  been  suggested  to  prepare  this  spirit  from  pure  nitrous  ether  or  ethyl 
nitrite  by  mixing  it  with  alcohol  in  a definite  proportion.  This  would  doubtless  be  the 
most  rational  way  of  preparing  the  spirit,  but  the  obstacles  to  it  are  the  difficulty  of 
obtaining  the  ether  in  the  pure  state,  and,  after  it  has  been  obtained,  the  preservation  of 
it  for  any  length  of  time. 

Ethyl  nitrite,  C2H5N02,  is  a thin,  pale-yellow  liquid  having  a pungent,  ethereal, 
apple-like  odor.  It  boils  at  17.5°  C.  (72.5°  F.),  is  somewhat  soluble  in  water,  and  on 
keeping  acquires  an  acid  reaction. 

Properties. — Prepared  by  either  process,  spirit  of  nitrous  ether  is  a transparent, 
volatile,  inflammable,  and  nearly  colorless  liquid,  with  a slight  yellowish  or  greenish-yel- 
low tint,  and  has  an  agreeable,  ethereal,  somewhat  fruit-like  odor,  free  from  pungency, 
and  a sharp  and  burning,  or,  after  diluting  with  water,  a sweetish  and  cooling  ethereal, 
taste.  It  mixes  with  water  in  all  proportions,  the  liquid  remaining  clear  and  transparent. 
When  freshly  prepared,  or  even  after  being  kept  for  some  time  with  but  little  exposure 
to  light  and  air,  it  is  neutral  to  litmus-paper.  When  long  kept,  or  after  having  been 
freely  exposed  to  air  and  light,  it  acquires  an  acid  reaction,  but  it  should  not  effervesce 
when  a crystal  of  potassium  bicarbonate  is  dropped  into  it.  If  agitated  with  a solution 
of  ferrous  sulphate  and  a little  strong  sulphuric  acid,  it  acquires  a dark  olive-brown  tint. 
The  spirit  of  the  Br.  P.  contains  about  2.63  per  cent,  of  nitrous  ether  and  has  the  specific 
gravity  0.845 ; the  U.  S.  P.  requires  about  4 per  cent,  of  pure  ethyl  nitrite  and  a specific 
gravity  of  0.836-0.842  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  ; the  P.  G.  gives  the  specific  gravity  as  0.840- 
0.850,  but  makes  no  requirement  as  to  amount  of  ethyl  nitrite  present. 

Tests. — “ A portion  of  the  spirit,  in  a test-tube  half  filled  with  it,  plunged  into  water 
heated  to  65°  C.  (149°  F.),  and  held  there  until  it  has  acquired  that  temperature,  should 
boil  distinctly  on  the  addition  of  a few  small  pieces  of  glass.  If  10  Cc.  of  the  spirit  be 
mixed  with  5 Cc.  of  potassium  hydroxide  test-solution  previously  diluted  with  5 Cc.  of 
water,  the  mixture  will  assume  a yellow  color  which  should  not  turn  decidedly  brown 
within  twelve  hours  (limit  of  aldehyde).  If  5 Cc.  of  recently  prepared  spirit  of  nitrous 
ether  be  introduced  into  a nitrometer,  and  followed,  first,  by  10  Cc.  of  potassium  iodide 
test-solution,  and  then  by  10  Cc.  of  normal  sulphuric  acid,  the  volume  of  nitrogen  dioxide 
generated  at  the  ordinary,  indoor  temperature  (assumed  to  be  at  or  near  25°  C.  or  77°  F.) 
should  not  be  less  than  55  Cc.  (corresponding  to  about  4 per  cent,  of  pure  ethyl  nitrite).” 
— U.  S.  “10  Gm.  of  the  spirit  should  not  have  an  acid  reaction  after  3 drops  of  volu- 
metric solution  of  potassa  have  been  added  (limit  of  free  acid).” — P.  G.  The  Br.  P. 
requires  the  spirit  when  fresh  to  yield  seven  times,  and  when  old  about  five  times,  its 
volume  of  nitric  oxide  gas. 

The  pharmacopoeial  quantitative  test  is  that  first  suggested  in  1885  by  A.  H.  Allen 
( Pharm . Jour,  and  Trans.,  vol.  xv.  p.  673),  and  is  much  simpler  than  other  methods  in 
use  prior  to  that  time.  The  nitrometer  (see  Figs.  291,  292)  is  completely  filled  with 
saturated  solution  of  sodium  chloride,  including  the  bore  of  the  glass  stopcock,  and  great 
care  must  be  observed  that  no  air  enter  while  the  different  liquids  are  allowed  to  flow 
from  the  cup  into  the  nitrometer  tube : this  is  best  avoided  by  washing  the  cup  with  a 
few  Cc.  of  alcohol  or  salt  solution  after  the  spirit  of  nitrous  ether  has  been  run  into  the 
tube,  and  allowing  0.2  or  0.3  Cc.  of  fluid  to  remain  in  the  cup.  The  results  obtained  by 
Allen’s  method  are  remarkably  constant,  and  can  be  made  strictly  accurate  by  allowing 
1.5  Cc.  for  solubility  of  the  gas,  and  making  proper  corrections  for  temperature  and 
atmospheric  pressure. 

For  all  practical  purposes  the  official  nitrometric  test  will  suffice,  as  any  spirit  of 
nitrous  ether  containing  4 per  cent,  and  over  of  ethyl  nitrite  may  be  considered  as  of 
pharmacopoeial  strength.  The  following  equation  will  show  the  reaction  taking  place  in 
the  nitrometer  : C,H5N02  + KI  -f  H2S04  = C2H5OH  -f-  KHS04  + I + NO  ; from  this 
we  see  that  74.87  Gm.  of  ethyl  nitrite  yield  29.97  Gm.  of  nitric  oxide,  which  will  measure 
under  normal  pressure  at  0°  C.  (32°  F.)  22320  Cc.,  or  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  23550  Cc. 
Hence  1 Gm.  of  ethyl  nitrite  yields  at  0°  C.  298.132  Cc.  of  NO  gas,  or  1 Cc.  of  the  gas 
will  represent,  under  the  same  conditions,  0.00335422  Gm.  of  ethyl  nitrite.  Since  gases 
under  normal  pressure  increase  TTJ  volume  for  every  1°  C.  (1.8°  F.)  increase  in  tem- 
perature above  zero,  every  Cc.  of  gas  increases  by  0.003663,  and  proper  corrections  must 


1498 


SPIRITUS  JETHERIS  NITROSI. 


be  made  if  accurate  results  are  asked  for.  (See  also  Gasometric  Determinations,  under 
List  of  Pharmacopoeial  Tests,  in  Appendix.)  To  find  the  exact  percentage  of  ethyl  nitrite 

Fig.  291.  Fig.  292. 


present  in  any  sample,  first  ascertain  the  exact  volume  of  NO  gas  liberated  at  0°  C.  (32° 
F.).  This  is  done  by  dividing  the  number  of  Cc.  of  gas  obtained  in  the  official  test  by 
1 plus  as  many  times  0.003663  as  the  number  of  degrees  Centigrade  of  temperature  ; then 
multiply  the  number  of  Cc.  so  found  by  0.00335422,  which  will  give  the  weight  of  the 
ethyl  nitrite  present,  for  each  Cc.  of  NO  gas  represents  0.00335422  Gm.  of  C2H5N02 ; 
now  divide  by  the  number  of  Cc.  of  the  sample  used  in  the  test,  multiply  by  100,  and 
divide  by  the  specific  gravity  of  the  sample.  If  the  barometric  pressure  be  not  normal 
(760  Mm.  or  30  inches),  a correction  of  gas-volume  should  also  be  made  for  it  after  the 
correction  for  temperature,  as  follows  : multiply  the  volume  by  the  number  of  millimeters 
or  inches  of  pressure  indicated,  and  divide  the  product  by  760  or  30  as  the  case  may  be. 
If  55  Cc.  NO  gas  are  obtained  at  25°  C.  and  750  Mm.  pressure  from  5 Cc.  of  spirit  of 
nitrous  ether  having  the  specific  gravity  0.840,  the  actual  amount  of  ethyl  nitrite  present 
would  be  3.971  per  cent,;  55 -f-  1.091575  [1  -f  (.003663  X 25)]  = 50.38  ; 50.38X750 
and  -4-  760  = 49.71  ; 49.71  X 0.00335422  5 and  X 100  = 3.3354363  4-  ; 3.3354363 

0.840  ==  3.971. 

Preservation. — Spirit  of  nitrous  ether  should  never  be  kept  in  large  or  partially 
filled  bottles,  nor  exposed  to  light,  as  it  thus  rapidly  undergoes  oxidation  and  becomes 
worthless ; neither  should  it  be  purchased  in  bulk,  as  it  is  impossible  to  preserve  the 
quality  of  it  when  kept  in  carboys  or  large  bottles  which  are  frequently  opened  and  never 
securely  stoppered.  We  have  frequently  examined  samples  of  spirit  of  nitrous  ether 
drawn  from  carboys  in  the  cellar  of  wholesale  drug-houses,  and  found  them  far  below  the 
official  requirements,  often  as  low  as  i or  % per  cent,  of  ethyl  nitrite.  Even  if  carefully 
protected  against  air  and  light,  the  solution  slowly  decomposes  and  becomes  gradually 
weaker.  The  concentrated  spirit  obtained  by  distillation  may  be  preserved  in  the  same 
manner,  and  if  well  washed  with  ice-cold  water  requires  merely  dilution  with  alcohol  to 
furnish  an  unexceptionable  preparation.  The  free  acid  which  is  formed  by  the  influence 
of  atmospheric  oxygen  may  be  neutralized  by  magnesia  or  by  potassium  bicarbonate,  but 


SPIRITUS  AMMONITE. 


1499 


the  spirit  should  not  be  kept  continuously  in  contact  with  these  chemicals.  It  has,  how- 
ever, been  recommended  to  keep  in  the  bottle  with  the  spirit  some  crystals  of  potassium 
tartrate,  whereby  free  acid  will  be  neutralized,  a corresponding  amount  of  potassium 
bitartrate  being  formed. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  vapor  of  this  liquid  when  inhaled  by  man  causes  giddi- 
ness, headache,  throbbing  of  the  arteries,  and  (in  excessive  quantities)  confusion  of 
mind,  muscular  reaction,  cyanosis,  a thready  pulse,  and  spasms.  Prolonged  immersion 
in  its  vapor  has  been  fatal.  In  very  large  doses  it  irritates  the  stomach,  especially  if  the 
preparation  contains,  as  it  often  does,  free  acid,  causing  vomiting  and  colic.  In  medicinal 
doses  it  is  decidedly  diuretic  or  diaphoretic,  according  as  the  skin  is  cool  or  warm.  In 
febrile  conditions  it  is  much  used  to  promote  critical  sweating,  which  it  properly  does  by 
abating  the  morbid  activity  of  the  heart  and  tension  of  the  arteries.  Its  efficacy  in  this 
respect  is  very  marked  in  slight  and  ephemeral  febrile  affections,  especially^  in  such  as  are 
produced  by  an  arrest  of  perspiration.  It  is  usually  associated  with  the  neutral  or  the 
effervescing  mixture  and  minute  doses  of  some  antimonial  preparation. 

As  a diuretic  it  is  commonly  employed  to  relieve  strangury  produced  by  cantharides, 
in  all  painful  affections  of  the  urinary  apparatus,  whether  occasioned  by  calculous  or 
inflammatory  disorders,  and  in  the  various  affections  of  the  kidneys  in  which  congestion 
of  those  organs  and  diminished  secretion  of  urine  occur.  In  all  of  these  cases  the  medi- 
cine should  be  associated  with  diluent  drinks,  weak  saline  solutions,  or  diuretic  infusions. 
Of  salines  the  most  suitable  are  the  acetate,  tartrates,  and  carbonates  of  potassium,  and 
of  vegetable  infusions  those  of  digitalis  and  juniper.  In  chronic  renal  dropsy  it  is  less 
useful  than  in  dropsy  of  cardiac  origin. 

This  medicine  is  often  serviceable  in  relieving  flatulent  distension  of  the  stomach  and 
nausea , especially  when  it  is  associated  with  aromatic  spirit  of  ammonia.  It  is  in  com- 
mon use  to  quiet  nervous  agitation.  It  may  be  inhaled  with  advantage  to  allay  coughing 
in  diseases  of  the  air-passages.  It  is  a soothing  application  to  the  forehead  in  neuralgic 
headache , but  if  frequently  applied  it  irritates  the  skin,  especially  if  it  is  not  freshly  pre- 
pared. It  is  said  to  have  cured  certain  hard  swellings  of  the  lip  supposed  to  be  can- 
cerous {papilloma,  epithelioma ),  but  which  are  most  generally  non-malignant. 

The  dose  of  spirit  of  nitrous  ether  in  febrile  affections  is  Gm.  1.30-2  (npxx-xxx), 
repeated  every  half  hour  or  hour  and  given  in  sweetened  water.  As  a diuretic  from  Gm. 
2—4  (fgss— j)  of  it  should  be  given  every  three  or  four  hours  in  a diuretic  mixture,  solu- 
tion, or  infusion.  As  a nervous  stimulant  the  dose  should  not  be  less  than  Gm.  4 (fgj). 

Ethyl  nitrite  was  used  by  Fraser  in  a case  of  chronic  bronchitis  with  impeded  respira- 
tion. He  found  that  2 minims  of  a 50  per  cent,  alcoholic  solution  of  the  compound  pro- 
duced an  immediate  palliation  of  the  oppression  and  bronchial  rales,  which  continued  for 
several  hours  (. Amer . Jour.  Med.  Sci.,  Feb.  1888,  p.  126).  Dr.  Leech  has  apparently 
proved  that  the  virtues  of  spirit  of  nitrous  ether  are  due  chiefly  to  the  ethyl  nitrite  it 
contains,  and  that  the  compound  acts  by  relaxing  the  spasm  of  the  bronchia  and  arte- 
rioles, and  thereby  lessening  the  strain  upon  the  heart  ( Lancet , Feb.  1889,  p.  240). 

SPIRITUS  AMMONITE,  *7,  8.— Spirit  of  Ammonia. 

Liquor  ammonii  caustic!  spirituosus  ; Spiritus  ammoniac i caustic i Dzondii. — Ammoniated 
alcohol , E. ; Alcoolat  ammoniacal , Liqueur  d'ammoniaque  vineuse , Fr. ; Weingeistiges 
Ammoniak.  G. 

Preparation. — Stronger  Ammonia-water  250  Cc. ; Alcohol,  recently  distilled  and 
which  has  been  kept  in  glass  vessels,  a sufficient  quantity.  Pour  the  stronger  water  of 
ammonia  into  a flask  connected  with  a well-cooled  receiver,  into  which  500  Cc.  of  alcohol 
are  introduced.  Heat  the  flask  carefully  and  very  gradually  to  a temperature  not  ex- 
ceeding 60°  C.  (140°  F.),  and  maintain  it  at  that  temperature  for  about  ten  minutes. 
Then  disconnect  the  receiver,  and,  having  ascertained  the  ammoniacal  strength  by  means 
of  normal  sulphuric  acid  (rosolic  acid  test-solution  being  used  as  an  indicator),  add 
enough  alcohol  to  make  the  product  contain  10  per  cent,  by  weight  of  ammonia.  Keep 
the  product  in  glass-stoppered  bottles  in  a cool  place. — TJ.  S. 

In  the  former  editions  of  this  work  we  have  pointed  out  the  disadvantages  of  the  pro- 
cess of  1870,  which  directed  the  generation  of  ammonia  from  ammonium  chloride  and 
lime,  and  showed  the  convenience  of  evolving  the  gas  from  stronger  ammonia-water  with- 
out unduly  contaminating  the  alcohol  with  water.  250  Cc.  of  stronger  ammonia-water 
of  full  strength,  weighing  225.25  Gm.,  contain  56.3  Gm.  of  ammonia,  one-half  of  which 
is  readily  given  off  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  45°  C.  (113°  F.) ; but  41  Gm.  of 


1500 


SPIRIT  US  AMMONIAS  A R OMA  TIC  US. 


ammonia  being  required  for  500  Cc.  of  alcohol,  a somewhat  higher  heat  is  required, 
which,  however,  should  not  exceed  60°  C.  (140°  F.).  After  the  evolution  of  ammonia 
ceases,  the  ammoniacal  alcohol  (3.4  Gm.  or  4.2  Cc.)  is  tested  with  sulphuric  acid  in  the 
manner  directed  by  the  Pharmacopoeia,  and  if  more  than  20  Cc.  of.  the  normal  acid  are 
needed  for  neutralization,  the  alcohol  required  for  dilution  is  readily  calculated ; but  if 
the  liquid  becomes  neutral  with  a smaller  quantity  of  the  volumetric  solution,  the  alcohol 
should  be  further  charged  with  ammonia  gas  evolved  from  a fresh  portion  of  strong 
ammonia-water ; increasing  the  heat  is  inadmissible,  since  too  large  a proportion  of  water 
would  pass  over.  Alcohol  which  has  been  kept  in  a barrel  is  apt  to  contain  more  or  less 
organic  matter  in  solution,  which  would  be  darkened  in  color  by  ammonia ; hence  the 
recommendation  to  use  only  alcohol  which  after  rectification  has  been  preserved  in  glass 
vessels. 

Properties. — Spirit  of  ammonia  is  a colorless  liquid  having  a strong  ammoniacal 
and  at  the  same  time  spirituous  odor  and  a spec.  grav.  of  about  0.810  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.). 
When  diluted  with  water  it  has  the  same  behavior  to  reagents  as  ammonia-water,  and  its 
purity  and  strength  may  be  determined  in  the  same  manner  as  for  the  latter.  “ 3.4  Gm. 
spirit  of  ammonia,  diluted  with  distilled  water,  should  require  for  complete  neutralization 
20  Cc.  of  normal  sulphuric  acid,  rosolic  acid  being  used  as  indicator  ( —10  per  cent. 
NH8).”—tf.  S. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  action  and  uses  of  this  preparation  have  been  described  under 
Ammonia.  It  is  seldom  prescribed  internally,  the  aromatic  spirit  and  the  fetid  spirit 
being  more  appropriate  for  this  purpose  as  a general  rule.  It  has  the  advantage  of  not 
rendering  turbid  mixtures  containing  resins  and  other  substances  which  are  precipitated 
by  water,  and  hence  it  is  a common  ingredient  in  stimulating  liniments,  of  which  it  should 
form  not  more  than  one-sixth  part.  Its  dose  is  Gm.  0.60-2  (gtt.  x-xxx)  in  a wine-glass- 
ful of  water. 

SPIRITUS  AMMONITE  AROMATICUS,  77.  8.,  Br.— Aromatic  Spirit 

of  Ammonia. 

Alcoolat  ammoniacal  aromatique , Fr.  ; Aromatischer  Ammoniakgeist , G. 

Preparation. — Ammonium  Carbonate,  in  translucent  pieces,  34  Gm.;  Ammonia- 
water  90  Cc. ; Oil  of  Lemon  10  Cc. ; Oil  of  Lavender:flowers  1 Cc. ; Oil  of  Nutmeg  1 
Cc. ; Alcohol  700  Cc. ; Distilled  Water  a sufficient  quantity;  to  make  1000  Cc.  To  the 
ammonia-water,  contained  in  a flask,  add  140  Cc.  of  distilled  water,  and  afterward  the 
ammonium  carbonate  reduced  to  a moderately  fine  powder.  Close  the  flask  and 
agitate  the  contents  until  the  carbonate  is  dissolved.  Introduce  the  alcohol  into  a 
graduated  bottle  of  suitable  capacity,  add  the  oils,  then  gradually  add  the  solution  of 
ammonium  carbonate,  and  afterward  enough  distilled  water  to  make  the  product  measure 
1000  Cc.  Set  the  liquid  aside  during  twenty-four  hours  in  a cool  place,  occasionally 
agitating,  then  filter  it  through  paper  in  a well-covered  funnel.  Keep  the  product  in 
glass-stoppered  bottles  in  a cool  place. — U.  S. 

Oil  of  nutmeg  4J  fluidrachms,  oil  of  lemon  61  fluidrachms,  alcohol  6 pints,  water  3 
pints  ; distil  149  fluidounces.  Place  the  last  9 oz.  of  distillate  in  a bottle  with  ammonium 
carbonate  4 oz.  and  strong  ammonia  solution  8 fl.  oz. ; warm  gently  to  140°  F.  until  dis- 
solved ; filter  through  cotton  and  gradually  mix  with  the  distillate. — Br. 

On  adding  ammonia-water  to  official  ammonium  carbonate,  normal  ammonium  carbonate 
is  formed,  which  is  readily  soluble  in  alcohol.  This  is  the  compound  aimed  at  by  both 
pharmacopoeias.  If  official  ammonium  carbonate  is  treated  with  alcohol,  normal  ammonium 
carbonate  will  be  dissolved,  and  acid  ammonium  carbonate,  being  nearly  insoluble,  will  be 
left  behind.  An  insoluble  saline  precipitate  will  therefore  indicate  either  a deficiency  in 
the  strength  of  the  ammonia-water  or  a partial  decomposition  of  the  carbonate  used.  This 
salt  should  be  employed  only  in  translucent  masses,  and  the  effloresced  portion,  which 
contains  variable  proportions  of  acid  ammonium  carbonate,  should  be  rejected  for  this 
preparation.  In  order  to  ensure  the  complete  change  of  the  ammonium  salt,  we  have 
found  it  advantageous  to  allow  the  mixture  of  ammonium  carbonate,  distilled  water,  and 
ammonia-water  to  stand  for  some  time  (say  twelve  hours)  before  mixing  it  with  the  alcoholic 
solution  of  the  oils.  The  change  effected  is  readily  explained  as  follows  : NH4HC03.NH4 
NH2C02  (official  carbonate)  -j-  NH4OH  (ammonia)  = 2(NH4)2C03  (normal  carbonate). 
A.  Blair  (1885)  has  shown  that  oil  of  nutmeg  is  preferable  to  oil  of  pimenta,  which 
causes  the  spirit  to  become  red  or  brown. 

Properties. — This  spirit  is  colorless  or  yellowish,  has  an  aromatic  and  at  the  same 


SPIEITUS  AMMONIAS  FETID US.— A RMORA CUE  COMPOSITUS.  1501 


time  ammoniacal  odor,  effervesces  with  acids,  becomes  milky  on  the  addition  of  water,  and 
has  the  specific  gravity  0.905  TJ.  S.  (0.886  Br.'). 

Action  and  Uses. — This  is  a mild  preparation  of  ammonia,  which  is  used  almost 
exclusively  for  the  relief  of  headache , and  especially  of  that  form  of  it  which  is  attended 
with  acidity  of  the  stomach  and  flatulent  eructations.  It  probably  exerts  a double  action — 
upon  the  stomach,  neutralizing  its  acidity  and  provoking  the  expulsion  of  its  gaseous  con- 
tents, and  upon  the  nervous  system  by  a gentle  stimulant  action  which  allays  nervous  pain. 

The  dose  of  aromatic  spirit  of  ammonia  is  Gm.  2-4  (fgss-j),  properly  diluted. 

SPIRITUS  AMMONL®  FCETIDUS,  Br. — Fetid  Spirit  of  Ammonia. 

Alcoolat  anim-oniacal  fetide,  Essence  antihysterique , Fr. ; Ammoniakalischer  Stinkasant- 
geist , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Asafetida  1^  ounces;  Strong  Solution  of  Ammonia  2 fluid- 
ounces  ; Bectified  Spirit  a sufficiency.  Break  the  asafetida  into  small  pieces  and  macerate 
it,  in  a closed  vessel,  in  15  fluidounces  of  the  spirit  for  twenty-four  hours ; then  distil  off 
the  spirit,  mix  the  product  with  the  solution  of  ammonia,  and  add  sufficient  rectified  spirit 
to  make  1 pint  (Imperial). — Br. 

On  distilling  the  tincture  of  asafetida  prepared  as  above  directed,  a portion  of  the  vola- 
tile oil  of  asafetida  passes  over ; the  finished  preparation  is  therefore  an  alcoholic  solution 
of  this  volatile  oil  mixed  with  ammonia-water.  Aqua  fcetida  antihysterica  (s.  Pragensis ) 
is  a weak  distilled  spirit  free  from  ammonia,  but  contains  the  volatile  products  of  gal- 
banum,  myrrh,  valerian,  zedoary,  angelica,  peppermint,  wild  thyme,  English  chamomile, 
and  castor,  in  addition  to  the  oil  of  asafetida. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  purpose  of  this  preparation  is  to  associate  a special  nervous 
stimulant  with  ammonia.  Asafetida  is  often  indicated  where  ammonia  is  appropriate,  and 
especially  in  cases  of  hysterical  derangements,  whether  exhibited  in  general  nervous  dis- 
order or  in  that  of  a particular  organ,  as  the  larynx,  the  stomach,  the  bowels,  or  the  uterus. 
It  may  be  usefully  associated  with  other  antacids  and  with  carminatives  in  flatulent  colic 
from  indigestion.  The  dose  is  from  Gm.  2-4  (%ss-j). 

SPIRITUS  AMYGDALAE  AMARiE,  TJ.  S. — Spirit  of  Bitter  Almond. 

Essence  o f hitter  almond , E.;  Alcoolat  ( Esprit ) d' amandes  ameres , Fr.;  Bittermandelgeist , G. 

Preparation. — Oil  of  Bitter  Almond  10  Cc. ; Alcohol  800  Cc. ; Distilled  Water  a 
sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Dissolve  the  oil  in  the  alcohol,  and  add  enough 
distilled  water  to  make  the  product  measure  1000  Cc. — TJ.  S. 

Uses. — The  spirit  of  bitter  almond  may  perhaps  be  more  eligible  than  the  oil  itself 
for  the  dosage  of  the  latter.  Gm.  32  (a  fluidounce)  contain  about  5 minims  of  the  oil. 

SPIRITUS  ANISI,  TJ.  S.— Spirit  of  Anise. 

Alcoolat  ( Esprit ) d'anis , Fr.  ; Anisgeist , G. 

Preparation. — Oil  of  Anise  100  Cc. ; Deodorized  Alcohol  900  Cc.;  to  make  1000  Cc. 
Mix  them. — U.  S. 

The  essence  of  anise  of  the  British  Pharmacopoeia  has  more  than  twice  the  strength  in 
oil  of  anise  of  the  foregoing  (see  page  625). 

Uses. — Spirit  of  anise  is  used  for  the  relief  of  flatulent  colic  and  as  a flavoring  ingre- 
dient of  mixtures,  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  4-8  (f^j-ij). 

SPIRITUS  ARMOR  ACL®  COMPOSITUS,  Br.- Compound  Spirit  of 

Horseradish. 

Esprit  de  raifort  composee,  Alcoolat  antiscorbutique , Fr. ; Meerrettiggeist , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Horseradish-root,  scraped,  Bitter  Orange-peel,  cut  small 
and  bruised,  each  20  ounces  ; Nutmeg,  bruised,  \ ounce  ; Proof  Spirit  1 gallon  ; Water 
2 pints.  Mix,  and  distil  a gallon  (Imperial)  with  a moderate  heat. — Br. 

This  preparation  is  an  alcoholic  solution  of  the  volatile  oils  of  the  drug  used. 

Uses. — This  compound  is  appropriate  in  cases  of  atonic  dropsy , especially  of  renal 
origin,  but  is  more  or  less  efficient  in  all  forms  of  dropsy  in  which  stimulant  diuretics 
are  indicated.  It  may  be  added  with  advantage  to  various  diuretic  infusions,  such  as 
the  compound  infusion  of  juniper,  the  infusion  of  digitalis,  etc.  The  dose  is  Gm.  4-8 


1502 


SPIRITUS  A URANTII. — SPIRITUS  CHLOROFORMI. 


SPIRITUS  AURANTII,  77.  Spirit  of  Orange. 

Esprit  d' orange,  Fr.  ; Orangengeist,  G. 

Preparation. — Oil  of  Orange-peel  50  Cc. ; Deodorized  Alcohol  950  Cc. ; to  make 
1000  Cc.  Mix  them. — U.  JS. 

Uses. — Like  the  tinctures  of  orange-peel,  it  is  well  adapted  for  flavoring  mixtures. 

SPIRITUS  AURANTII  COMPOSITUS,  77.  Compound  Spirit  of 

Orange. 

Esprit  d' orange  composee,  Fr.  ; Zusammengesetzter  Orangengeist,  G. 

Preparation. — Oil  of  Orange-peel  200  Cc. ; Oil  of  Lemon  50  Cc. ; Oil  of  Coriander 
20  Cc. ; Oil  of  Anise  5 Cc. ; Deodorized  Alcohol  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000 
Cc.  Mix  them.  Keep  the  product  in  completely  filled,  well-stoppered  bottles  in  a cool 
and  dark- place. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 pint  of  compound  spirit  of  orange  dissolve  3 fluidounces  and  96  minims 
of  oil  of  orange-peel,  384  minims  of  oil  of  lemon,  154  minims  of  oil  of  coriander,  and  39 
minims  of  oil  of  anise,  in  sufficient  deodorized  alcohol  to  make  16  fluidounces  of  solution. 

Uses. — This  compound  seems  to  be  an  eligible  addition  to  the  preparations  of  orange- 
peel,  but  hardly  as  much  so  to  the  numerous  preparations  for  the  relief  of  flatulent  colic. 
It  may  be  given  somewhat  diluted  in  doses  of  Gm.  4 (a  teaspoonful).  Its  chief  use  is 
in  the  preparation  of  Aromatic  Elixir. 

SPIRITUS  CAJUPUTI,  Br.— Spirit  of  Oajuput. 

Alcoolat  ( Esprit ) de  cajeput,  Fr.  ; Cajeputgeist , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Oil  of  Cajuput  1 fluidounce;  Rectified  Spirit  49  fluidounces. 
Dissolve. — Br. 

Uses. — Being  merely  a solution  of  oil  of  cajuput  in  alcohol,  it  might  be  made  by 
extemporaneous  prescription.  Each  fluidrachm  of  the  spirit  contains  1^  minims  of  the 
oil,  and  the  dose  is  Gm.  2—4  (fgss— j). 

SPIRITUS  CAMPHORS,  77.  8.,  Br.— Spirit  of  Camphor. 

Alcohol  camphor atus,  Fr.  Cod. ; Spiritus  camphoratus,  P.  G. ; Tinctura  camphorse. — 
Tincture  of  camphor,  E. ; Esprit  de  camphre,  Alcool  camphre,  Fr.  ; Kampfer spiritus,  G. 

Preparation. — Camphor  100  Gm. ; Alcohol  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc. 
Dissolve  the  camphor  in  800  Cc.  of  alcohol,  filter  through  paper,  and  pass  enough  alcohol 
through  the  filter  to  make  the  product  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 pint  of  spirit  of  camphor  dissolve  If  av.  ozs.  of  camphor  in  12  fluidounces  of 
alcohol,  and  add  to  the  solution  sufficient  alcohol  to  bring  the  volume  up  to  16  fluidounces. 

Take  of  camphor  1 ounce  ; rectified  spirit  9 fluidounces.  Dissolve. — Br. 

Dissolve  1 part  of  camphor  in  9 parts  of  alcohol. — F.  Cod. 

Dissolve  1 part  of  camphor  in  7 parts  of  alcohol,  and  to  the  solution  add  2 parts  of 
water. — P.  G. 

Uses. — The  internal  use  of  this  preparation  of  camphor  is  seldom  appropriate,  chiefly 
because  the  camphor  is  separated  immediately  on  coming  in  contact  with  the  moisture 
of  the  mouth,  fauces,  etc.  Externally,  it  is  applied,  as  camphorated  liniment  is,  for 
allaying  pain  in  sprained,  chafed,  and  contused  parts,  but  it  is  preferable  to  the  oily 
preparation  whenever  the  local  pain  is  neuralgic  or  is  attended  with  inflammation,  because 
in  the  latter  case  the  evaporation  of  the  alcohol  produces  a sense  of  coolness  which  is 
very  grateful.  Its  anodyne  and  sedative  action  is  frequently  invoked  in  bathing  the 
mammae  to  diminish  the  secretion  of  milk  after  parturition  or  to  assist  in  drying  it  up  for 
weaning.  Applied  on  cotton  to  an  exposed  nerve-pulp,  it  mitigates,  and  may  quite 
remove,  the  toothache.  Like  powdered  camphor,  it  may  be  used  advantageously  in  hos- 
pital gangrene  and  in  various  ulcers  of  an  indolent  nature. 

The  dose  of  spirit  of  camphor  is  Gm.  0.30-2  (npv-xxx). 

SPIRITUS  CHLOROFORMI,  77.  S.,  Br.— Spirit  of  Chloroform. 

Alcoolat  de  chloroforme,  Fr.  ; Chloroformspiritus,  G. 

Preparation. — Purified  Chloroform  60  Cc. ; Alcohol  940  Cc. ; to  make  1000  Cc. 
Mix  them. — U S. 


SPIRITUS  CINNA  MOML— SPIRIT  US  FRUMENTI. 


1503 


To  make  1 pint  of  spirit  of  chloroform  mix  461  minims  of  chloroform  with  sufficient 
alcohol  to  bring  the  volume  up  to  16  fluidounces.  Each  fluidounce  contains  nearly  30 
minims  (28.8  -f)  of  chloroform. 

Chloroform  1 fluidounce  ; rectified  spirit  19  fluidounces  ; dissolve. — Br. 

The  preparation  was  formerly  known  as  chloric  ether. 

Uses. — This  is  a convenient  preparation  for  administering  chloroform  by  the  stomach. 
It  may  be  prescribed  in  colic , whether  flatulent,  neuralgic,  or  biliary,  and  indeed  in  almost 
all  painful  abdominal  disorders.  Dose , Gm.  1.20-4  (npxx-lx)  or  more,  properly  diluted. 

SPIRITUS  CINNAMOMI,  U.  8.,  Br.— Spirit  of  Cinnamon. 

Alcoolat  de  cannelle,  Fr. ; Zimmtspiritus , G. 

Preparation. — Oil  of  Cinnamon  100  Cc. ; Alcohol  900  Cc. ; to  make  1000  Cc. 
Mix  them. — U.  S. 

Oil  of  (Ceylon)  cinnamon  1 fluidounce  ; rectified  spirit  49  fluidounces. — Br. 

Uses. — It  may  be  prescribed,  pure,  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.60-1.30  (gtt.  x-xx)  in 
cases  of  colic  with  diarrhoea,  and  as  a flavoring  addition  to  various  mixtures.  But  for 
the  latter  purpose  cinnamon-water  is  more  commonly  used. 

SPIRITUS  FRUMENTI,  U.  S.— Whiskey. 

Bau  de  vie  de  grains.  Fr. ; Kornbrann  twein , G. 

An  alcoholic  liquid  obtained  by  the  distillation  of  the  mash  of  fermented  grain  (usu- 
ally corn,  wheat,  or  rye),  and  at  least  two  years  old. — U.  S. 

Origin  and  Preparation. — The  term  “ whiskey  ” is  supposed  to  be  derived  from 
usque,  the  first  two  syllables  of  usquebaugh , the  original  name  in  Ireland — itself  from 
Irish  uisge  and  beat-ha , “life,”  Uisge  beatha , Aqua  vitae , “Water  of  life”  (Dunglison’s 
Dictionary).  In  Europe  whiskey  is  often  made  by  fermenting  potatoes,  but  likewise  from 
different  kinds  of  grain  ; in  Great  Britain  principally  from  barley,  oats,  and  rye.  In  the 
United  States  rye,  maize,  and  wheat  are  mostly  employed  for  the  manufacture  of  whiskey 
either  in  the  raw  state  or  after  having  been  previously  malted,  when  it  furnishes  a prod- 
uct of  better  flavor.  The  fermenting  mixture  is  called  the  mash.  During  the  fermenta- 
tion the  starch  is  converted  into  sugar,  and  finally  into  alcohol  and  carbon  dioxide  (see 
page  148).  The  mixture  is  now  subjected  to  distillation,  aud  the  weak  spirit,  called  low 
wine , is  rectified,  and  thus  obtained  stronger  and  less  charged  with  fusel  oil,  which  comes 
over  chiefly  in  the  last  portions  of  the  distillate.  The  raw  whiskey  is  kept  in  barrels  or 
tanks  for  several  years,  during  which  time  it  acquires  mellowness  and  is  improved  in 
flavor,  doubtless  in  consequence  of  the  formation  of  various  compound  ethers. 

Properties* — Whiskey  is  a spirituous  liquid,  usually  of  a yellowish  or  amber  color, 
due  to  coloring  matter  and  to  a trace  of  tannin  derived  from  the  tanks  in  which  it  has 
been  kept,  and  to  a trace  of  sugar  which  has  probably  been  added  in  the  form  of  caramel. 
The  density  of  whiskey  depends  on  the  percentage  of  alcohol,  and  is  to  a slight  extent 
influenced  by  the  amount  of  the  coloring  and  extractive  matters ; it  should  be  not  above 
.930,  nor  below  .917,  corresponding,  approximately,  to  an  alcoholic  strength  of  44  to  50 
per  cent,  by  weight  or  50  to  58  per  cent,  by  volume.  The  disagreeable  odor  of  raw 
whiskey  is  mainly  owing  to  a small  quantity  of  amylic  alcohol,  which  on  keeping  is 
changed  into  an  ether,  and  perhaps  partly  into  valerianic  acid  ; cenanthylic  and  other 
allied  acids  are  likewise  present  to  a slight  extent.  Old  whiskey  has  a slight  acid  reaction, 
due  to  the  formation  of  a minute  quantity  of  acetic  and,  according  to  Kappel  (1859), 
of  valerianic,  acid.  For  neutralizing  the  acidity  of  good  whiskey  20  Cc.  require  usually 
between  0.8  and  1.0  Cc.  of  Jq-  normal  solution  of  alkali,  indicating  between  0.113  and 
0.142  Gm.  of  acetic  acid  or  its  equivalent.  The  acidity  slowly  increases  with  age  up  to 
a certain  degree ; in  one  case  2.25  Cc.  of  y1^  normal  alkali  were  required  for  20  Cc.  of 
whiskey. 

Tests. — On  evaporating  whiskey  by  a moderate  heat  nearly  to  dryness,  the  residue 
which  is  left  should  have  a slightly  aromatic  and  rather  insipid,  but  not  an  acrid,  taste. 
The  most  convenient  test  for  recognizing  the  origin  of  whiskey  is  that  proposed  by 
Molnar.  A small  quantity  of  it  is  heated  with  a slight  excess  of  caustic  potassa  until 
the  alcohol  has  been  completely  evaporated ; the  compound  ethers  are  thereby  decom- 
j posed,  and  on  adding  an  excess  of  sulphuric  acid  the  volatile  acids  are  liberated,  and 
from  their  odor  the  source  is  recognized.  Apple  whiskey  distilled  from  oider  gives  off  a 
I;  decided  fruit  odor;  the  odors  of  whiskies  of  different  kinds  of  grain  are  sufficiently  dis- 
1 tinct  from  one  another,  but  to  readily  recognize  them  considerable  experience  is  required. 


1504 


SPIRITUS  GA  UL THEE UP.—SPIR TT US  GLONOINI. 


“ If  100  Cc.  of  whiskey  be  very  slowly  evaporated  in  a weighed  capsule  on  a water-bath, 
the  last  portions  volatilized  should  not  have  a harsh  or  disagreeable  odor  (absence  of 
more  than  traces  of  fusel  oil  from  grain  or  potato  spirit).  The  remaining  residue,  fully 
dried  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.),  should  weigh  not  more  than  0.25  Gm.  (absence  of  undue 
amounts  of  solids).  This  residue  should  have  no  sweet  or  distinctly  spicy  taste  (absence 
of  added  sugar,  glycerin,  or  spices).  It  should  nearly  all  dissolve  in  10  Cc.  of  cold 
water,  forming  a solution  which  is  colored  light-green  by  a dilute  solution  of  ferric 
chloride  (traces  of  oak  tannin  from  casks).  100  Cc.  of  whiskey  should  be  rendered  dis- 
tinctly alkaline  to  litmus  by  1.2  Cc.  of  normal  potassium  hydroxide  solution  (limit  of 
free  acid).”— 17.  S. 

Action  and  Uses. — Whiskey  has  probably  been  made  officinal  because  genuine  brandy 
of  good  quality  is  not  readily  procured.  It  is  one  of  the  unfounded  claims  of  science 
that  bodies  of  apparently  the  same  composition  are  identical  in  their  action,  for  experi- 
ence daily  shows  that  physiological  effects  cannot  be  predicted  upon  chemical  grounds 
alone.  The  action  of  whiskey,  both  immediate  and  remote,  differs  in  many  respects  from 
that  of  brandy,  and  the  former  liquor  made  from  rye  is  not  identical  with  that  distilled 
from  wheat,  nor  are  potato  brandy  and  grape  brandy  alike  in  their  effects.  Whiskey,  and 
also  gin,  besides  being  less  palatable  to  all  but  the  coarsest  tastes  than  brandy,  are  much 
more  apt  than  the  latter  to  produce  functional  and  then  organic  diseases  of  the  stomach, 
liver,  and  kidneys,  and  their  immediate  operation  is  less  genial  and  exhilarating.  In  the 
absence  of  pure  brandy,  whiskey  is  probably  the  best  of  the  alcoholic  distilled  liquors, 
since  its  comparative  cheapness  in  a great  measure  removes  the  temptation  of  dealers  to 
adulterate  it.  The  proper  occasions  and  indications  for  its  medicinal  use,  both  internal 
and  external,  are  described  under  Alcohol  and  Vinum  Album. 

SPIRITUS  GAULTHERLE,  U.  Spirit  of  Gaultheria. 

Alcoolat  (Esprit)  de  gaultherie,  Fr. ; Bergtheespiritus  ( geist. ),  G. 

Preparation. — Oil  of  Gaultheria  50  Cc. ; Alcohol  950  Cc. ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix 
. them. — U.  S. 

“ Essence  of  wintergreen  ” has  been  in  use  for  a long  time,  but  was  prepared  of  vary- 
ing strength.  The  pharmacopoeial  formula  is  intended  to  accomplish  uniformity. 

Uses. — This  preparation  is  more  convenient  than  the  oil  of  gaultheria  for  giving  an 
agreeable  flavor  to  medicinal  preparations. 

SPIRITUS  GLONOINI,  V.  S.— Spirit  of  Glonoin. 

Spirit  of  nitro-glycerin. 

An  alcoholic  solution  of  glonoin  or  nitro-glycerin,  C3H5(N03)3,  containing  1 per  cent., 
by  weight,  of  the  substance.  Spirit  of  glonoin  should  be  kept  and  transported  in  well- 
stoppered  tin  cans  (never  in  glass  or  other  fragile  vessels),  and  should  be  stored  in  a cool 
place,  remote  from  lights  or  tire.  Great  care  should  be  exercised  in  handling,  packing, 
transporting,  or  storing  the  spirit,  since  a dangerous  explosion  may  result  if  any  consid- 
erable quantity  of  it  be  spilled  and  the  alcohol  be  partly  or  wholly  lost  by  evaporation. 

Properties  and  Tests. — “ A clear,  colorless  liquid,  possessing  the  odor  and  taste 
of  alcohol.  Caution  should  be  exercised  in  tasting  it,  since  even  a small  quantity  of  it 
is  liable  to  produce  a violent  headache.  The  same  effect  is  produced  when  it  is  freely 
applied  to  the  skin.  It  is  neutral  to  litmus-paper.  Specific  gravity  0.826  to  0.832  at 
15°  C.  (59°  F.).  On  diluting  10  Cc.  of  the  spirit  with  15  Cc.  of  water,  both  liquids,  as 
well  as  the  mixture,  when  measured,  being  brought  to  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  the  liquid  will 
exhibit  at  most  a faint  cloudiness,  but  the  addition  of  a further  portion  of  5 Cc.  of  water 
should  produce  a white  turbidity.  If  the  specific  gravity  of  the  spirit  be  higher  than 
0.840,  or  if  10  Cc.  of  it  are  rendered  turbid  by  less  than  10  Cc.  of  water,  the  spirit 
should  be  rejected. — U.  S. 

Preparation  Of  Nitro-glycerin. — This  compound,  also  known  as  trinitrin,  glo- 
noin, and  propenyl  trinitrate,  was  discovered  by  Sobrero  (1847),  and  may  be  prepared 
either  by  gradually  adding  7 parts  of  dehydrated  glycerin  to  a well-cooled  solution  of  20 
parts  of  sodium  nitrate  in  40  parts  of  sulphuric  acid  spec.  gr.  1.840,  the  mixture  being 
kept  cool,  or  1 part  of  glycerin  may  be  slowly  added,  with  frequent  stirring,  to  7 parts 
of  a mixture  composed  of  1 part  of  nitric  acid  spec.  gr.  1.47  and  2 parts  of  strong  sul- 
phuric acid,  the  temperature  being  carefully  kept  below  26.6°  C.  (80°  F.)  The  reaction 
taking  place  by  either  process,  between  the  nitric  acid  and  glycerin,  results  in  the  pro- 


SPIRIT  US  JUNIPER!— SPIRITUS  LAVANDULAE. 


1505 


duction  of  propenyltrinitrate  or  trinitro-glycerin  : thus,  C3H5(OH)3  -f  3IIN03  = C3H5- 
(N03)3  -f  3H,0.  In  either  case  the  nitro-glycerin  separates  in  the  form  of  an  oily  layer, 
and  is  then  washed  with  water,  and  finally  with  very  dilute  soda  solution,  until  all  acid 
reaction  ceases.  The  product  amounts  to  about  two  and  one-third  times  the  weight  of 
glycerin  employed.  It  is  a colorless  or  pale-yellowish  oily  liquid  of  1.60  specific  gravity, 
and  crystallizes  when  cooled  to  — 20°  C.  ( — 4°  F.).  It  may  be  freed  from  water  by 
treatment  with  10  per  cent,  of  glycerin,  in  which  nitro-glycerin  is  insoluble,  although  it 
is  miscible  in  all  proportions  with  ether,  chloroform,  phenol,  and  glacial  acetic  acid. 
1 Gm.  of  nitro-glycerin  requires  for  solution  3.5  Cc.  absolute  alcohol,  10  Cc.  alcohol, 
spec.  grav.  0.830,  18  Cc.  methyl  or  amyl  alcohol,  120  Cc.  carbon  disulphide  or  800  Cc. 
water.  It  is  without  odor,  but  its  vapors  produce  intense  headache  ; its  taste  is  sweet 
and  pungently  aromatic.  When  ignited  in  the  open  air  it  burns  quietly  and  incompletely, 
but  when  heated  in  closed  vessels  or  by  percussion,  it  explodes  with  great  violence ; 
sometimes  it  explodes  spontaneously.  Nitro-glycerin  forms  the  basis  of  various  blasting 
compounds  known  as  dynamite,  giant-powder,  glyoxylin,  dualin,  etc.  According  to  A. 
Nobel,  1 volume  yields  upon  explosion  about  10400  volumes  of  gas. 

Uses. — Spirit  of  glonoin  is  convenient  for  dosing  nitro-glycerin,  of  which  it  contains 
1 per  cent,  by  weight.  The  dose  is  stated  to  be  1 drop  three  times  a day,  gradually 
increased  to  10  or  even  20  drops,  and  given  in  water. 

SPIRITUS  JUNIPERI,  U.  S,,  Br.— Spirit  of  Juniper. 

Alcoolat  ( Esprit ) de  genievre , Fr. ; Wachholderspiritus,  G. 

Preparation. — Oil  of  Juniper  50  Cc.  ; Alcohol  950  Cc. ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix 
them. — U.  S. 

Oil  of  juniper  1 fluidounce  ; rectified  spirit  49  fluidounces  ; dissolve. — -Br. 

Macerate  for  twenty -four  hours  5 parts  of  bruised  juniper-berries  with  15  parts  each 
alcohol  and  water,  and  distil  20  parts. — P.  G. 

The  spirit  made  from  the  volatile  oil  distilled  from  juniper-berries  is  much  more  agree- 
able than  if  the  common  oil  of  juniper  is  used.  Age  improves  the  flavor. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  preparation  is  carminative  and  diuretic,  and  is  useful  as 
an  addition  to  infusions  and  mixtures  employed  in  the  treatment  of  dropsy.  Its  dose  is 
Gm.  2—4  (n^xxx-lx). 

SPIRITUS  JUNIPERI  COMPOSITUS,  U.  8.— Compound  Spirit  of 

Juniper. 

Preparation. — Oil  of  Juniper  8 Cc.  ; Oil  of  Caraway  1 Cc.  ; Oil  of  Fennel  1 Cc. ; 
Alcohol  1400  Cc. ; Water  a sufficient  quantity ; to  make  2000  Cc.  Dissolve  the  oils  in 
the  alcohol,  and  gradually  add  enough  water  to  make  the  product  measure  2000  Cc. — 

u.  s. 

To  make  1 pint  of  compound  spirit  of  juniper  dissolve  30  minims  of  oil  of  juniper 
and  4 minims  each  of  fennel  and  oil  of  caraway  in  111  fluidounces  of  alcohol,  and  grad- 
ually add  enough  water  to  bring  the  volume  up  to  16  fluidounces. 

This  spirit  is  an  official  substitute  for  gin,  a spirit  distilled  in  some  parts  of  Europe 
from  juniper-berries,  to  which  sometimes  other  aromatics  are  added.  It  has  the  advan- 
tage of  uniformity  of  composition  over  the  commercial  article,  and  if  good  volatile  oils  are 
used  the  flavor  is  agreeable  and  will  improve  by  age. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  addition  of  caraway  and  fennel  oils  to  that  of  juniper  in 
this  compound  increases  the  virtues  it  derives  from  the  last-named  ingredient,  and  espe- 
cially gives  it  a carminative  operation,  which  is  often  called  for  in  abdominal  dropsy  ; for 
in  that  disease  the  abdominal  and  intestinal  walls  lose  their  contractile  power  and  become 
distended  by  the  gases  formed  in  the  cavity  of  the  bowel.  It  is  commonly  added  to 
diuretic  infusions.  The  dose  is  Gm.  4-16  (f^j-iv). 

SPIRITUS  LAVANDULAE,  77.  8.,  Br.— Spirit  of  Lavender. 

Alcoolat  (Esprit,  Eau ) de  Lavande , Fr. ; Lavendelspiritus , G. 

Preparation. — Oil  of  Lavender-flowers  50  Cc. ; Deodorized  Alcohol  950  Cc. ; to 
make  1000  Cc. ; Mix  them. — U.  S. 

Oil  of  lavender  1 fluidounce;  rectified  spirit  49  fluidounces  ; dissolve. — Br. 

Macerate  for  twenty-four  hours  lavender-flowers  5 parts,  with  alcohol  and  water  each 
15  parts,  and  distil  20  parts. — P.  G. 

95 


1506 


SPIRITTJS  LIMONIS— SPIRITUS  MYRGIJE. 


For  use  as  a perfume  a small  quantity  of  oil  of  bergamot,  tincture  of  musk,  or  tinc- 
ture of  ambergris  is  sometimes  added,  the  addition  of  the  tincture  being  made  to  the 
distilled  spirit. 

Action  and  Uses. — Spirit  of  lavender — or,  as  it  is  commonly  called,  lavender-water 
— is  more  generally  used  as  an  agreeable  and  refreshing  perfume  than  as  a medicine.  It 
is  popularly  employed  to  bathe  the  forehead,  etc.  in  cases  of  headache,  fever,  etc.  It  may 
be  given  internally  in  doses  of  Grin.  2-4  (fi^ss-j). 

SPIRITUS  LIMONIS,  U.  S.— Spirit  of  Lemon. 

Essence  of  lemon , E. — Alcoolat  ( Esprit ) de  citron , Fr.  ; Citronenessenz , G. 

Preparation. — Oil  of  Lemon  50  Cc. ; Lemon-peel,  freshly  grated,  50  Gm. ; Deodor- 
ized Alcohol  a sufficient  quantity;  to  make  1000  Gc.  Dissolve  the  oil  of  lemon  in  900 
Cc.  of  deodorized  alcohol,  add  the  lemon-peel,  and  macerate  for  twenty-four  hours;  then 
filter  through  paper,  adding  through  the  filter  enough  deodorized  alcohol  to  make  the 
spirit  measure  1000  Cc. — TJ.  S. 

To  make  1 pint  of  essence  of  lemon  macerate  384  minims  of  oil  of  lemon  and  386 
grains  of  freshly-grated  lemon-peel  with  14.5  fluidounces  of  deodorized  alcohol  for 
twenty-four  hours;  then  filter,  and  add  sufficient  deodorized  alcohol  to  bring  the  volume 
up  to  16  fluidounces. 

Macerate  for  two  days  500  parts  of  fresh  rind  of  lemon  with  3000  parts  of  80  per  cent, 
alcohol,  and  distil  until  all  the  alcohol  has  passed  over. — F.  Cod. 

Uses. — This  preparation  is  only  used  for  flavoring  simple  syrup  and  medicinal  mix- 
tures. 

SPIRITUS  MENTHA  PIPERITA,  TJ.  8.,  Br B.  G.— Spirit  of 

Peppermint. 

Essence  of  peppermint , E. ; Alcoolat  ( Essence ) de  menthe  poivree,  Fr. ; Englische  Pfejfer- 
minzessenz , G. 

Preparation. — Oil  of  Peppermint  100  Cc. ; Peppermint,  in  coarse  powder,  10  Gm. ; 
Alcohol  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Dissolve  the  oil  of  peppermint  in  900 
Cc.  of  alcohol,  add  the  peppermint,  and  macerate  for  twenty-four  hours ; then  filter 
through  paper,  adding  through  the  filter  enough  alcohol  to  make  the  spirit  measure  1000 
Cc. — U.  S. 

Oil  of  peppermint  1 fluidounce  ; rectified  spirit  49  fluidounces  ; dissolve. — Br. 

The  formula  of  the  P.  G.  agrees  with  that  of  the  U.  S.  P.,  except  that  the  spirit  is  made 
by  weight  and  is  not  colored.  The  spirit  of  the  Br.  P.  is  one-fifth,  but  the  essentia  (see 
p.  625)  is  about  double,  the  strength  of  the  above. 

Uses. — This  preparation  is  the  most  convenient  form  for  the  ordinary  administra- 
tion of  peppermint.  The  dose  of  the  American  preparation  is  Gm.  0.30-1  (gtt.  v-xv), 
taken  on  loaf  sugar  or  in  sweetened  water.  The  dose  of  the  British  spirit  is  (Gm. 
2-4  (f^ss-j). 

SPIRITUS  MENTH.ZE  VIRIDIS,  TJ.  S. — Spirit  of  Spearmint. 

Essence  of  spearmint , E. 

Preparation. — Oil  of  spearmint  100  Cc.  : Spearmint  in  coarse  powder,  10  Gm. ; 
Alcohol  a sufficient  quantity;  to  make  1000  Cc.  Dissolve  the  oil  of  spearmint  in  900 
Cc.  of  alcohol,  add  the  spearmint,  and  macerate  for  twenty-four  hours  ; then  filter  through 
paper,  adding  through  the  filter  enough  alcohol  to  make  the  spirit  measure  1000  Cc. 
— U.  S. 

The  analogous  preparation  used  in  France  is  distilled  from  fresh  crisped  mint,  and  that 
used  in  Germany  as  Englische  Krauseminzessenz  is  made  by  dissolving  1 part  of  oil  of 
crisped  mint  in  9 parts  (by  weight)  of  alcohol. 

US6S. — This  preparation  is  less  energetic  than  that  of  peppermint.  It  may  be  given 
in  the  dose  of  Gm.  1.30-2.60  (npxx-xl). 

SPIRITUS  MYRCL3C,  TJ.  S. — Spirit  of  Myrcia. 

Bay-rum , E. 

Preparation.— Oil  of  Myrcia  16  Cc. ; Oil  of  Orange-peel  1 Cc. ; Oil  of  Pimenta  1 
Cc. ; Alcohol  1220  Cc. ; Water  a sufficient  quantity ; to  make  2000  Cc..  Mix  the  oils 


SPIRITUS  MYRISTIC^E.— SPIRITUS  PHOSPHORI. 


1507 


with  the  alcohol,  and  gradually  add  water  until  the  solution  measures  2000  Cc.  Set  the 
mixture  aside,  in  a well-stoppered  bottle,  for  eight  days ; then  filter  through  paper  in  a 
well-covered  funnel. — IT.  S. 

To  make  1 pint  of  bay-rum  dissolve  60  minims  of  oil  of  myrcia  and  4 minims  each  of 
oil  of  orange-peel  and  oil  of  pimenta  in  10  fluidounces  of  alcohol,  and  gradually  add  enough 
water  to  bring  the  volume  of  the  mixture  up  to  16  fluidounces. 

On  diluting  an  alcoholic  solution  of  volatile  oils  rapidly  with  water  a milkiness  is  apt  to 
he  produced,  which  is  subsequently  not  readily  removed  by  agitation  ; it  is  therefore 
directed  to  add  the  water  gradually,  so  that  the  appearance  of  a permanent  milkiness  may 
be  avoided  as  much  as  possible.  If  after  a week  the  spirit  cannot  be  decanted  or  filtered 
clear,  it  may  be  treated  with  paper-pulp  or  other  material  (except  cotton-fibres)  usually 
used  in  the  preparation  of  medicated  waters. 

Bay-rum  is  distilled  in  several  of  the  West  Indian  islands  from  the  fresh  leaves  of 
Myrcia  acris  (see  p.  1137),  to  which  a certain  proportion  of  the  fruit  is  added,  St.  Croix 
rum  being  used  for  the  best  quality  : its  flavor  is  affected  by  the  employment  of  the 
leaves  of  different  varieties  of  the  plant,  or  probably  of  different  closely-allied  species  of 
myrtles.  (See  paper  by  A.  H.  Riise  in  Amer.  Jour.  Phar.,  1882,  p.  278.)  However, 
most  of  the  bay-rum  consumed  in  the  United  States  is  now  manufactured  here,  a small 
portion  being  distilled  from  the  dried  leaves.  The  pharmacopoeial  formula  furnishes  a 
preparation  of  agreeable  fragrance  and  of  a pale-yellowish  color  or  nearly  colorless. 

Uses. — Bay-rum,  like  lavender-water,  is  used  exclusively  as  a perfume  and  as  a 
refreshing  application  to  the  forehead  in  headache  and  to  other  parts  irritated  by  heat  or 
chafing. 

SPIRITUS  MYRISTIC^E,  U.  S.,  Br.— Spirit  of  Nutmeg. 

Alcoolat  ( Esprit ) de  muscade,  Fr. ; Mushatspiritus , G. 

Preparation. — Oil  of  Nutmeg  50  Cc. ; Alcohol  950  Cc. ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix 
them. — TJ.  S. 

Take  of  volatile  oil  of  nutmeg  1 fluidounce ; rectified  spirit  49  fluidounces ; dissolve. — Br. 

In  France  this  spirit  is  prepared  by  macerating  for  four  days  500  parts  of  bruised  nut- 
meg with  4000  parts  (by  weight)  of  80  per  cent,  alcohol,  and  distilling  as  long  as  alcohol 
passes  over. 

Uses. — Spirit  of  nutmeg  is  used  as  a flavoring  ingredient,  but  less  commonly  than 
other  aromatics.  Its  dose  is  Grin.  2—4  (f^ss— j). 

SPIRITUS  ODORATUS,  U.  S.,  1880.—  Perfumed  Spirit. 

Spiritus  ( Aqua ) coloniensis , Alcoolatum  fragrans. — Cologne-water , E. ; Eau  de  Cologne , 
Alcoolat  de  citron  compose , Fr. ; Kolnisches  Wasser , Gr. 

Preparation. — Oil  of  Bergamot  16  parts  (2  oz.  av.  or  171  fluidrachms)  ; Oil  of 
Lemon  8 parts  (1  oz.  av.  or  9 fluidrachms);  Oil  of  Rosemary  8 parts  (1  oz.  av.  or  81 
fluidrachms) ; Oil  of  Lavender-flowers  4 parts  (1  oz.  av.  or  41  fluidrachms)  ; Oil  of 
Orange-flowers  4 parts  (1  oz.  av.  or  41  fluidrachms)  ; Acetic  Ether  2 parts  (1  oz.  av.  or 
21  fluidrachms)  ; Water  158  parts  (19f  oz.  av.  or  19  fluidounces)  ; Alcohol  800  parts 
(100  oz.  av.  or  7 pints  5 fluidounces)  ; to  make  1000  parts  (125  oz.  av.  or  81  pints). 
Dissolve  the  oils  and  the  acetic  ether  in  the  alcohol,  and  add  the  water.  Set  the  mixture 
aside  in  a well-closed  bottle  for  eight  days,  then  filter  through  paper  in  a well-covered 
funnel. 

The  formula  of  the  French  Codex  is  similar.  This  spirit  should  be  kept  on  hand  for 
some  time,  when  its  fragrance  will  improve. 

Uses. — Cologne-water  would  seem  to  pertain  to  the  perfumer  rather  than  to  the  phar- 
macist or  physician,  and  therefore  to  be  quite  misplaced  in  a pharmacopoeia. 

SPIRITUS  PHOSPHORI,  U.  S. — Spirit  of  Phosphorus. 

Tincture  of  phosphorus,  E. ; Alcoolat  ( Esprit ) de  phosphor  e,  Fr. ; Phosphor  spiritus,  G. 

Preparation. — Phosphorus  1.2  Gm. ; Absolute  Alcohol  a sufficient  quantity;  to 
make  1000  Cc.  Weigh  the  phosphorus  in  a tared  capsule  containing  water,  then  dry  it 
carefully  and  quickly  with  blotting-paper,  and  introduce  it  into  a flask  containing  1000 
Cc.  of  absolute  alcohol.  Connect  the  flask  with  an  upright  condenser  supplied  by  cold 
water,  and  apply  the  heat  of  a water-bath,  so  that  the  alcohol  may  be  kept  gently  boiling, 
until  the  phosphorus  is  dissolved.  Then  allow  the  liquid  to  become  cold,  and,  if 


1508 


SPIRIT  US  R OSMA  RINI. — SPIRIT  US  VINI  GALLIC! 


necessary,  add  to  it  enough  absolute  alcohol  to  make  it  measure  1000  Cc.  Lastly, 
transfer  the  spirit  to  small,  dark  amber-colored  vials,  which  should  be  securely  stoppered 
and  kept  in  a cool  and  dark  place. — U.  S. 

To  prepare  1 pint  of  spirit  of  phosphorus  9 grains  of  phosphorus  should  be  dissolved 
in  16  fluidounces  of  absolute  alcohol. 

Each  Cc.  of  the  solution  contains  0.0012  Gm.,  or  each  fluidounce  a little  more  than  J 
grain  (T9g-)  of  phosphorus. 

Uses. — This  solution  forms  a convenient  means  of  dosing  phosphorus.  “ Each 
fluidrachm  contains  y1^  grain  of  phosphorus,  or  14.4  minims  contain  ^ grain  of  phos- 
phorus.” 

SPIRITUS  ROSMARINI,  J3r.— Spirit  of  Rosemary. 

Spiritus  anthos. — Alcoolat  ( Esprit ) de  romarin,  Fr. ; Rosmarinspiritus , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Oil  of  Rosemary  1 fluidounce ; Rectified  Spirit  49  fluid- 

ounces  ; dissolve. — Br. 

The  preparation  known  in  Europe,  and  formerly  much  employed,  as  Aqua  Reginae  Hun- 
garian (Eau  de  la  reine  de  Hongrie,  Fr.),  is  a compound  spirit  of  rosemary,  usually  con- 
taining a little  lavender,  sage,  or  other  aromatic  oil. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  preparation  is  but  little  used  in  the  United  States.  It  is 
worthy  of  being  more  generally  employed,  not  only  for  its  perfume,  which  is  very  grate- 
ful to  most  persons,  but  as  a stimulant  in  nervous  and  hysterical  conditions,  and  locally 
for  the  relief  of  muscular  and  neuralgic  pains.  Like  the  oil  of  rosemary,  it  may  be  added 
to  stimulating  and  anodyne  liniments.  Gm.  4 (1  fluidrachm)  of  the  spirit  contain  nearly 
1 minim  of  the  oil. 

SPIRITUS  TENUIOR,  Br.— Proof  Spirit. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Rectified  Spirit  5 pints  ; Distilled  Water  3 pints  ; mix. — Br. 

It  has  the  specific  gravity  0.920  (see  page  150). 

Uses. — This  form  of  alcohol  is  employed  in  medicine  only  as  a lotion  for  contusions , 

rheumatic  pains,  etc. 

SPIRITUS  VINI  GALLICI,  U.  8.,  Br.— Brandy. 

Spiritus  vini  Cognac , P.  G. — -Spirit  of  French  wine , E. ; Eau  de  vie.  Cognac , Fr. ; Franz- 
hranntwein , G. 

An  alcoholic  liquid  obtained  by  the  distillation  of  the  fermented,  unmodified  juice  of 
fresh  grapes,  and  at  least  four  years  old. — U.  S. 

Origin  and  Preparation. — Brandy  is  made  in  France  by  distilling  different 
kinds  of  wine.  The  colorless  spirit  ( white  brandy)  thus  obtained  is  kept  for  some  time  in 
new  oak  casks,  where  it  gradually  acquires  a light-amber  tint  ( pole  brandy).  The  darker- 
colored  varieties  have  their  color  deepened  by  the  addition  of  caramel.  The  brandies 
obtained  in  different  districts  of  France  are  not  esteemed  alike,  those  of  Cognac  and 
Armagnac  being  deemed  the  best,  owing  to  the  agreeable  mildness  of  their  flavor;  next 
in  order  are  those  from  Bordeaux  and  Rochelle.  The  lees  of  wines  and  the  marc  of 
grapes  are  also  distilled,  and  furnish  a spirituous  liquid  called  in  France  eau  de  vie  de 
marc , which  is  highly  charged  with  odorous  principles,  and  is  used  as  an  addition  to  other 
brandies  and  for  imitating  brandy  by  mixing  the  liquid  with  pure  rectified  spirit.  The 
odorous  constituents  separated  from  all  or  most  of  the  alcohol  are  sometimes  met  with  in 
commerce  as  oil  of  grapes.  Large  quantities  of  brandy  are  also  distilled  in  Spain  and 
Portugal,  and  of  recent  years  in  Germany. 

Considerable  brandy  is  now  made  in  the  United  States,  and  is  usually  distinguished  as 
Catawba  and  California  brandy.  Catawba  brandy  is  made  in  the  vine-growing  districts 
of  the  Ohio  and  Mississippi  Valley,  according  to  E.  S.  Wayne  (1855),  from  the  lees  and 
from  the  marc.  That  made  from  the  lees  is  the  best,  and  has  the  flavor  of  Catawba  wine. 
When  distilled  from  the  marc  it  has  an  unpleasant  taste,  and  contains  a large  amount  of 
fusel  oil,  but  is  mellowed  down  by  age.  California  brandy  is  made  from  the  lees  and 
marc,  which  are  thrown  together  with  poor  wines  and  distilled,  the  distillate  being  tinged 
by  the  addition  of  caramel  ( Proc . Amer.  Phar.  Assoc .,  1866,  p.  64). 

The  British  Pharmacopoeia  recognizes  only  the  spirit  of  French  wine,  while  the  U.  S. 
and  German  Pharmacopoeias  admit  all  spirits  obtained  from  fermented  grapes  or  wine, 
without  designating  French  wine. 


SPONGIA. 


1509 


Properties. — Brandy  is  a spirituous,  amber-colored  Liquid  having  a peculiar  flavor, 
which  is  improved  by  age ; hence  the  U.  S.  P.  directs  it  to  be  used  only  when  at  least 
four  years  old.  The  flavor  depends  upon  the  variety  of  grapes  used,  upon  their  ripeness, 
upon  the  care  bestowed  upon  fermentation  and  distillation,  and  upon  the  age  of  the  wine, 
an  older  wine  yielding  a more  fragrant  distillate.  The  specific  gravity  of  brandy  is 
required  to  be  between  .925  and  .941  ( U.  $.),  corresponding,  approximately,  to  an  alcoholic 
strength  of  39  to  47  per  cent,  by  weight,  or  46  to  55  per  cent,  by  volume  (between  .920 
and  .924,  corresponding  to  between  46  and  50  per  cent,  by  weight  of  alcohol,  P GA).  It 
has  a slight  acid  reaction,  which  is,  at  least  in  part,  due  to  the  presence  of  acetic  acid. 
We  have  found  good  brandy  to  require  for  the  neutralization  of  20  Cc.  from  1.3  to  1.7 
Cc.  of  y1^-  normal  alkali  solution,  indicating  from  .185  to  .241  Gin.  of  free  acetic  acid 
in  the  pint.  The  odor  is  due  to  minute  quantities  of  oenanthic,  acetic,  and  perhaps  pro- 
pylic  and  allied  ethers ; its  quality  is  best  ascertained  by  pouring  some  of  the  brandy  into 
a wine-glass,  then  emptying  the  latter,  and,  without  washing  or  wiping  it,  setting  it  aside  ; 
the  peculiar  fragrance  becomes  then  more  apparent,  and  is  still  noticeable  after  a day, 
while  the  odor  of  brandy  which  had  been  diluted  with  deodorized  spirit  becomes  weak 
and  disappears  in  the  course  of  a few  hours,  during  which  time  also  the  odor  of  whiskey 
or  similar  spirits  becomes  apparent.  Brandy  assumes  a dark-greenish  color  on  the  addi- 
tion of  ferric  chloride,  owing  to  the  presence  of  tannin  derived  from  the  casks  or  from 
catechu,  etc.  purposely  added.  Sugar  can  usually  be  detected  in  the  extract  by  Trom- 
mer’s  test,  and  is  derived  from  caramel. 

Tests. — The  addition  of  grains  of  paradise,  Cayenne  pepper,  and  similar  substances, 
sometimes  used  for  imparting  artificial  strength  to  brandy,  is  detected  by  the  sharp  or 
burning  taste  of  the  extract  left  on  evaporation.  With  sufficient  practical  experience  the 
origin  of  brandy  may  be  recognized  by  Molnar’s  method  (see  Spiritus  Frumenti),  but 
it  is  more  difficult  to  distinguish  by  their  odors  the  ethers  and  fusel  oils  of  the  French 
wines  used  for  making  brandy  than  the  fusel  oils  of  different  kinds  of  grain.  “ If  100  Cc. 
of  brandy  be  very  slowly  evaporated  in  a weighed  capsule  on  a water-bath,  the  last  por- 
tion volatilized  should  have  an  agreeable  odor,  free  from  harshness  (absence  of  fusel  oil 
from  grain  or  potato  spirit).  The  residue,  dried  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.),  should  weigh  not 
more  than  1.5  Gm.  (absence  of  an  undue  amount  of  solids).  This  residue  should  have 
no  sweet  or  distinctly  spicy  taste  (absence  of  added  sugar,  glycerin,  or  spices).  It  should 
nearly  all  dissolve  in  10  Cc.  of  cold  water,  forming  a solution  which  is  colored  light-green 
by  a dilute  solution  of  ferric  chloride  (traces  of  oak  tannin  from  casks).  100  Cc.  of 
brandy  should  be  rendered  distinctly  alkaline  to  litmus  by  1 Cc.  of  the  normal  volumetric 
solution  of  potassium  hydroxide  (limit  of  free  acid).” — U.  S. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  virtues  of  brandy  have  been  set  forth  in  the  article  on 
Alcohol.  It  may  be  sufficient  here  to  repeat  that  true  brandy — that  is,  made  from  wine 
— has  qualities  peculiar  to  itself  and  unlike  those  belonging  to  other  distilled  spirits.  It 
is  not  only  more  palatable,  more  cordial  to  the  stomach,  and  produces  a more  grateful 
exhilaration ; but  is  less  apt  than  gin  or  whiskey  to  occasion  disease  of  the  liver  or  kid- 
neys. 

SPONGIA.— Sponge. 

Eponge , Fr. ; Schwamm , Badeschwamm,  G. ; Esponja , Sp. 

Spongia  officinalis,  Linne. 

Class  Poriphera.  Ord.  Ceratospongiae. 

Origin  and  Description. — Sponges  belong  to  the  lowest  animals  which  live  in 
water,  and  are  attached  to  rocks  or  other  substances.  They  consist  of  a framework  aris- 
ing from  a broad  base  and  forming  a ramifying  and  anastomosing  tissue,  which  is  traversed 
by  numerous  canals  and  pores  and  covered  with  a glairy  or  gelatinous  substance.  In 
some  genera  the  skeleton  is  formed,  to  a greater  or  less  extent,  of  siliceous  or  calcareous 
spicules  ; in  others  the  whole  body  consists  of  a gelatinous  substance.  The  sponges  which 
are  in  common  use  belong  to  a few  species,  the  skeleton  of  which  is  entirely  or  nearly 
free  from  spicules,  and  forms  cup-shaped  or  convex,  porous,  and  lacunose  masses,  with 
circular  vents  on  the  surface.  They  are  collected  by  divers,  who  tear  them  from  the 
rocks,  or  they  are  detached  by  means  of  a fork  fastened  to  the  end  of  a long  pole.  The 
gelatinous  animal  matter  is  removed  by  burying  them  for  several  days  in  sand,  and  after- 
ward soaking,  squeezing,  and  washing  them. 

The  best  variety  of  sponge  comes  from  the  Mediterranean,  and  is  chiefly  collected  in 
the  neighborhood  of  Greece  and  near  the  coast  of  Syria.  It  is  known  in  commerce  as 


1510 


SPONGIA. 


Mediterranean  and  Turkish  sponge , and  conies  in  cup-shaped  pieces  of  various  sizes, 
having  a soft,  elastic,  and  compressible  fibrous  framework.  The  Bahama  or  West  Indian 
sponge  is  collected  near  the  Bahama  Islands,  and  forms  convex  or  oblong  pieces,  with  some- 
what projecting  lobes  and  of  a coarser  texture  than  the  preceding.  As  met  with  in  com- 
merce, sponge  generally  contains  a large  quantity  of  sand,  from  which  it  is  freed  by  beat- 
ing, and  various  calcareous  matters,  which  are  removed  mechanically  or  by  dissolving 
them  with  the  aid  of  dilute  hydrochloric  acid.  After  it  has  been  cleaned  it  is  sometimes 
bleached , either  by  means  of  a solution  of  sulphurous  acid  prepared  from  sodium  thio- 
sulphate and  hydrochloric  acid  or  preferably  by  chlorine-water.  A still  better  process  is 
dipping  the  sponge  for  five  or  ten  minutes  into  a 2 per  cent,  solution  of  potassium  per- 
manganate, and  subsequently  immersing  it  in  a 2 per  cent,  solution  of  oxalic  acid  to 
which  a little  sulphuric  acid  has  been  added ; the  latter  treatment  removes  the  brown 
manganic  oxide  and  leaves  the  sponge  white,  without  affecting  its  durability. 

Composition. — The  organic  matter  of  sponge  is  a proteid  called  spongin , which  was 
formerly  supposed  to  be  closely  allied  to,  or  identical  with,  fibroin  or  sericin  of  silk,  but 
was  proven  by  Schlossberger  (1858)  and  Staedeler  (1859)  to  be  entirely  distinct,  in  being 
insoluble  or  very  slowly  soluble  in  ammoniacal  solutions  of  the  oxides  of  nickel  and 
copper,  and  in  the  behavior  to  hot  diluted  sulphuric  acid,  with  which  it  yields  leucin  and 
glycocolli  while  sericin  yields  by  this  treatment  tyrosin  and  serin,  and  is  readily  dissolved 
by  solutions  of  nickel  and  copper  in  ammonia.  Spongin  is  soluble  in  hot  solution  of 
caustic  potassa  and  in  hot  mineral  acids. 

Derivatives  and  Allied  Product. — Spongia. usta,  Fr.  Cod.  Burnt  sponge,  E. ; Eponge  torri- 
fiee,  Fr. — Heat  clean  sponge,  cut  into  small  pieces,  in  a coffee  roaster  until  about  one-fourth  its 
weight  has  been  given  off.  The  residue  consists  mainly  of  charcoal,  with  25  to  30  per  cent,  of 
calcium  sulphate,  10  per  cent,  of  silica,  9 per  cent,  of  ferrous  oxide,  the  remainder  being  mag- 
nesium carbonate,  potassium  chloride,  and  calcium  phosphate,  and  about  J to  1 per  cent,  of 
sodium  iodide  (Herberger). 

Spongia  cerata. — Sponge  tent,  E.;  Eponge  preparee  & la  cire,  Fr. ; Wachsschwamme,  G. — 
Sponge  is  freed  from  foreign  matters  by  beating  and  washing,  then  dried,  cut  into  proper  shape, 
dipped  into  yellow'  melted  wax,  pressed  between  hot  iron  plates,  and  when  cold  freed  from  the 
excess  of  wax.  ^ 

Spongia  compressa,  Compressed  sponge,  E .;  Funiculo  pressa,  F.  Cod.;  Eponge  prepare  a la 
ficelle,  Fr.  Cod.  ; Pressschwamm,  G. ; Esponga  preparada,  Sp. — Perfectly  clean,  fine  sponge  is  cut 
into  elongated  pieces  while  moist,  securely  tied  by  means  of  twine  into  cylindrical  pieces,  and 
then  dried. 

Vegetable  Sponge,  or  Gourd  Towel.  The  fibrous  network  of  the  fruit  of  Luffa  segyptiaca, 
Miller  (Momordica  Luffa,  LinnA;  nat.  ord.  Cucurbitaceae),  has  been  used  to  some  extent,  under 
these  and  similar  names,  like  a sponge  and  flesh-brush.  Luffa  Petola,  Seringe , and  L.  foetida, 
Cavanilles , yield  similar  products.  The  fleshy  portion  of  these  fruits  is  edible,  though  not  very 
palatable  •,  several  other  species  are  violently  purgative  and  emetic. 

Action  and  Uses. — Before  the  discovery  of  iodine,  roasted  or  so-called  “ burnt  ” 
sponge  was  generally  used  in  the  treatment  of  goitre , both  internally  and  externally,  and 
certainly  with  excellent  results  in  appropriate  cases ; but  it  is  now  wholly  superseded  by 
the  preparations  of  iodine.  Sponge  is  familiarly  employed  for  countless  domestic  pur- 
poses which  require  the  use  of  a porous,  compressible,  and  elastic  substance  capable  of 
holding  liquids,  and,  amongst  others,  for  partial  or  general  baths,  which  are  of  such  great 
hygienic  importance.  Its  use  in  medicine  and  surgery  for  absorbing  blood,  pus,  and  other 
animal  liquids  is  equally  familiar,  and  not  less  so  are  the  dangers  to  which  it  exposes  the 
patients  in  hospitals  by  carrying  from  one  to  another  the  germs  of  infectious  diseases. 
Sponges  that  have  been  used  in  surgical  operations  and  dressings  should  never  be  dried 
before  being  thoroughly  purified  with  boiling  water.  The  elasticity  of  sponge  renders  it 
an  efficient  means  of  dilating  wounds,  sinuses,  the  natural  apertures  of  the  body,  etc. 
For  this  purpose  it  should  be  introduced  in  a dry  and  compressed  state,  when,  by  absorb- 
ing the  liquids  of  the  part,  it  gradually  expands  with  irresistible  force.  To  promote  its 
introduction  into  narrow  canals,  such  as  that  of  the  neck  of  the  uterus,  compressed 
sponge,  saturated  or  merely  coated  with  wax,  is  of  the  greatest  utility.  (Compare  A. 
Smith,  Med.  News , xl.  197.)  It  is  used  to  dilate  wounds,  etc.  in  order  to  facilitate  the 
extraction  of  foreign  bodies  or  the  discharge  of  secretions,  as  well  as  the  introduction  of 
probes,  forceps,  and  other  surgical  instruments.  In  the  cervix  uteri  it  is  employed  to 
relieve  dysmenorrlioea,  and  also  to  induce  premature  labor.  Sometimes  the  sponge,  before 
being  compressed  and  coated  with  wax,  is  saturated  with  a solution  adapted  to  stimulate 
or  otherwise  modify  the  condition  of  the  part. 


STANNUM. 


1511 


STANNUM.— Tin. 

Etain , Fr. ; Zinn , G. 

Symbol  Sn.  Atomicity  bivalent  and  quadrivalent.  Atomic  weight  118.8. 

Origin  and  Preparation. — Tin  is  rarely  found  in  the  metallic  state.  Its  most 
important  ore  is  a binoxide,  Sn02,  known  as  tinstone , which  is  usually  imbedded  in  granite, 
quartz,  or  slate,  and  often  associated  with  iron  pyrites,  and  with  tungstate  of  iron  and 
manganese,  known  as  the  mineral  wolfram.  It  is  rarely  met  with  as  silicate,  and  is  pres- 
ent in  columbite , tantalite , and  allied  minerals,  and  in  minute  proportions  in  the  mineral 
waters  of  Saidschiitz  and  other  places.  The  most  important  tin-mines  are  in  Devonshire 
and  Cornwall  in  Great  Britain  and  in  Malacca  and  Banca,  but  tin  is  likewise  obtained  in 
Australia,  Bohemia,  Saxony,  and  some  parts  of  the  United  States.  Australian  tin  some- 
times contains  gold.  The  tinstone  is  stamped  into  a coarse  powder,  freed  from  lighter 
minerals  by  washing  with  a stream  of  water,  roasted  to  expel  arsenic  and  sulphur,  again 
washed  with  water,  mixed  with  powdered  coal  and  a little  lime  or  fluor-spar  for  the 
purpose  of  forming  a fusible  slag,  and  then  reduced  on  the  hearth  of  a reverberatory 
furnace. 

Properties. — Tin  is  a bluish-white  metal  of  the  specific  gravity  7.3,  softer  than  gold, 
but  harder  than  lead,  and  when  bent  emitting  a crackling  sound.  It  may  be  rolled  or 
hammered  into  foil,  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.),  drawn  into  wire,  and  at  200°  C.  (392°  F.)  is  so 
brittle  that  it  may  be  readily  reduced  to  powder.  It  melts  near  230°  C.  (446°  F.),  and, 
according  to  Nies  and  Winkelmann  (1882),  on  congealing  increases  in  volume  0.7  per- 
cent. While  cooling  it  is  readily  converted  into  powder  by  trituration  in  a hot  iron  mor- 
tar ; after  sifting  it  constitutes  Stanni  pulvis , which  was  formerly  employed.  It  is  but 
superficially  oxidized  in  moist  air,  and  will  effectually  protect  iron  from  rusting  as  long 
as  the  coating  is  perfect.  Its  alloy  with  lead  forms  pewter,  Britannia  metal , and  solder  ; 
alloyed  with  copper  it  constitutes  gun-metal  and  bronze  ; and  by  combining  4 parts  of  tin 
with  3 of  cadmium,  8 of  lead,  and  15  of  bismuth  a fusible  alloy  is  obtained  melting  at 
60°  C.  (140°  F.). 

Metallic  tin  dissolves  in  hot,  strong  sulphuric  acid  to  tannic  sulphate,  evolving  sulphur 
dioxide.  Strong  hydrochloric  acid  dissolves  it  to  stannous  chloride,  and  nitromuriatic 
acid  yields  with  it  stannic  chloride.  Stannous  salts  are  precipitated  brown  by  hydrogen 
sulphide,  the  precipitate  being  soluble  in  ammonium  sulphide.  Gold  chloride  pro- 
duces a deep-purple  precipitate  ( purple  of  Cassius'),  and  mercuric  chloride  is  reduced 
either  to  calomel  or  to  a gray  powder  of  metallic  mercury.  This  reaction  explains  the 
value  of  stannous  chloride  as  a test  for  salts  of  mercury.  Stannic  salts , of  which  the 
chloride,  SnCl4,  is  used  by  dyers,  do  not  react  with  the  chlorides  of  gold  and  mercury, 
but  yield  with  hydrogen  sulphide  a yellow  precipitate  which  is  soluble  in  ammonium 
sulphide.  Sodium  stannate,  Na3Sn03.4H20,  is  used  by  calico-printers  as  a mordant,  and 
is  prepared  on  the  large  scale  by  fusing  tin  ore  with  soda  and  sodium  nitrate  or  by  boil- 
ing it  with  caustic  soda.  Both  stannous  and  stannic  salts  are  precipitated  white  by 
caustic  potassa ; the  precipitates  are  soluble  in  an  excess  of  potassa,  and  the  alkaline 
solution,  when  obtained  from  stannous  salts,  yields  on  boiling  a black  precipitate  of  stan- 
nous oxide.  Of  the  sulphides,  stannic  sulphide , SnS2,  is  of  interest ; it  is  made  by  heat- 
ing a mixture  of  tin  amalgam,  sulphur,  and  sal  ammoniac,  when  it  remains  behind  in 
golden-yellow  scales,  ammonium  chloride  and  sulphide  and  chloride  of  mercury  subliming; 
when  ground,  stannic  sulphide  is  known  as  mosaic  gold  and  bronze  powder. 

Action  and  Uses. — Since  the  time  of  Paracelsus,  at  least,  tin  filings  have  been 
used  as  a remedy  for  tape-worms , and  a list  of  eminent  physicians  might  be  given,  includ- 
ing some  of  the  most  distinguished  helminthologists,  who  vaunted  their  efficacy  and 
recommended  their  use.  Their  testimony  may  certainly  be  taken  to  qualify  the  judg- 
ment of  Kiichenmeister  when  he  writes : “ Once  for  all,  I protest  against  the  administra- 
tion of  tin  filings,  and  I believe  that  no  one  can  have  much  pleasure  in  giving  this 
remedy  who  has  seen  the  ecchymotic  irritation  of  the  intestine  after  its  administration  to 
living  animals,  and  heard  them  whining  or  seen  them  writhing  about  during  life.”  Even 
if  this  criticism  were  admitted  to  be  just,  it  would  not  affect  the  question  of  the  efficacy 
of  the  powdered  metal  or  of  tin  prepared  by  precipitation  from  its  chloride.  The  emi- 
nent authority  above  mentioned  admits  it  to  be  real.  When  tin  filings  were  employed 
they  were  supposed  to  act  mechanically,  subjecting  the  worms  to  such  rude  attrition  as 
to  destroy  them  ; but  since  the  salts  of  tin  have  sometimes  proved  to  be  tseniacide,  and 
since  precipitated  tin  has  had  a like  effect,  it  is  more  probable  that  some  inherent  quality 
of  the  metal  must  be  invoked  to  explain  its  operation.  Moreover,  it  is  stated  upon  good 


1512 


STAPHISAGRIA. 


authority  that  in  certain  rural  districts  of  France  it  is  customary  to  use,  as  a vermifuge, 
sweetened  wine  that  has  been  kept  for  twenty-four  hours  in  a tin  vessel.  The  action  of 
vegetable  and  animal  acids  upon  the  tin  of  vessels  containing  so-called  canned  goods,  and 
into  which  air  has  found  access  through  imperfect  sealing  or  by  breakage,  produces 
hydroxide  and  chloride  of  tin,  which  have  poisoned  those  who  made  use  of  the  food.  One 
investigator  found  in  twenty-three  samples  of  canned  fruits  an  average  quantity  of  5.2 
grains  of  stannous  hydroxide  to  the  pound  (Hare,  Fiske  Fund  Prize  Essay , 1886).  The 
activity  of  the  salts  of  tin  is  illustrated  by  the  experiments  of  White  (Archiv  f exp. 
Path .,  etc .,  xiii.  53).  They  were  seen  to  act  upon  the  digestive  canal  and  upon  the 
central  nervous  system,  in  the  former  producing  the  symptoms  and  lesions  of  irritant 
poisons,  and  in  the  latter  paralysis.  The  urine  was  diminished  and  its  specific  gravity 
increased,  and  it  contained  albumen.  The  author  assimilates  tin  with  lead  in  its  action 
on  the  animal  economy.  Patenko  found  that  the  bichloride  was  a local  irritant  and 
anaesthetic,  and  acted  on  the  central  nervous  system,  and  the  muscles  ( Ther . Gaz.,  x.  337, 
622),  and  Ungar  and  Bodlander’s  experiments  showed  that  the  introduction  into  the 
system  even  of  non-corrosive  tin  salts  will  produce  morbid  symptoms,  and  finally  death 
(Bull,  de  Therap .,  cxiv.  323). 

Formerly,  tin  filings  were  administered  in  the  dose  of  20  grains,  gradually  increased  to 
Gm.  1.30-16  (4  ounce).  Powder  of  tin  may  be  prescribed  in  the  dose  of  about  Gm.  4 
(1  drachm).  It  should  be  given  in  a syrup  or  electuary,  and  after  the  bowels  have  been 
completely  cleansed  by  a purgative.  The  bisulphuret  of  tin  has  also  been  used  as  a 
tseniafuge,  in  doses  of  from  Gm.  8-16  (2  to  4 drachms),  in  the  same  manner  as  the  pow- 
dered metal.  Chloride  of  tin  has  been  employed  for  the  same  purpose,  “ as  an  antispas- 
inodic  in  epilepsy,  chorea,  and  other  convulsive  diseases,  as  a stimulant  to  paralyzed 
muscles  in  paraplegia,  as  an  antidote  in  poisoning  by  corrosive  sublimate,  and  as  an 
internal  application  in  chronic  skin  diseases”  (Pereira).  It  was  administered  internally 
in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.004—0.03  (ytg-  to  \ grain),  and  in  an  aqueous  solution  prepared  by 
dissolving  Gm.  0.01  in  Gm.  32  (i  grain  in  an  ounce)  of  water.  It  acts  topically  as  an 
astringent,  irritant,  and  caustic,  and  in  poisonous  doses  causes  convulsions  and  sometimes 
paralysis.  Stannous  chloride  has  been  recommended  by  Abbott  as  a surgical  disinfectant 
(Med.  News , xlviij.  120). 

STAPHISAGRIA,  TJ.  S. — Staphisagria;  Stavesacre. 

Staphisagrise  semina,  Br. ; Semen  staphisagrise , s.  Stapliidis  agrise , s.  pedicularis. — 
Staphisaigre , Fr. ; Stephanskorner , Lausekorner,  G. ; Estafisagria , Albarraz , Sp. 

The  seed  of  Delphinium  Staphisagria,  Linne , s.  Staphisagria  macrocarpa,  Spach.  Bent- 
ley and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 4. 

Nat.  Ord. — Ranunculacese,  Helleborese. 

Origin. — This  annual  pubescent  herb  is  indigenous  to  the  countries  bordering  on  the 
Mediterranean,  and  is  cultivated  in  some  parts  of  Southern  Europe.  It  attains  a height 
of  about  1 M.  (40  inches),  and  has  alternate,  long-petioled,  palmately  five-  to  nine-parted 
leaves,  the  leaves  being  lanceolate  and  entire  or  three-lobed.  The  pale  blue  or  purplish 
flowers  are  long-peduncled,  arise  from  the  axils  of  leafy  bracts,  have  two  of  the  petals 
spurred,  both  spurs  being  enclosed  in  that  of  the  calyx,  and  produce  three  hairy  follicles, 
each  containing  about  twelve  seeds.  The  unpleasantly  odorous  plant  (and  particularly 
the  seeds)  has  been  employed  from  an  early  period. 

Description. — Stavesacre-seeds  are  from  4-6  Mm.  (4  to  I inch)  long  and  3-5  Mm. 
(4  to  ^ inch)  broad,  acutely  angled  and  irregularly  flattish -tetrahedral,  one  side  being  some- 
what convex.  The  brittle  testa  is  at  first  of  a brown  or  blackish-brown,  afterward  of  a 
brownish-gray,  color,  wrinkled  and  pitted  with  flattish  depressions,  the  intervening  ridges 
forming  net-like  meshes.  The  nucleus  is  whitish,  when  old  brownish,  and  consists  of  an 
oily  albumen  enclosing  at  its  sharper  end  a small  straight  embryo.  The  seeds  have  a faint 
somewhat  narcotic  odor  and  a bitter,  burning,  and  biting  taste. 

Constituents. — Marquis  (1877)  isolated  four  optically  inactive  alkaloids — delphinine, 
C22H35N06  ; delphinoidine,  C42H68N207  ; delphisine,  C27H46N204  ; and  staphisagrine, 
C22H32N05.  Delphinine  was  discovered  in  1819  by  Lassaigne  and  Feneulle,  and  simul- 
taneously by  Brandes.  It  is  nearly  insoluble  in  water,  dissolves  at  20°  C.  (68°  F.)  in 
21  parts  of  alcohol,  11  parts  of  ether,  and  16  parts  of  chloroform,  crystallizes  in  flat 
prisms,  has  a bitter  taste,  followed  by  persistent  tingling,  is  precipitated  by  the  group 
reagents,  but  gives  no  characteristic  color  reaction  ; it  does  not  melt  at  120°  C.  Studer 
(1872)  found  it  to  melt  at  90°  C.  (194°  F.),  and  to  dissolve  with  a reddish  color  in  sul- 


ST  A PHIS  A GRTA . 


1513 


phuric  acid  containing  a trace  of  iron.  Delphinoidine  is  amorphous,  melts  between  110° 
and  120°  C.  (230°  and  248°  F.),  dissolves  in  6500  parts  of  water,  in  3 parts  of  ether,  and 
is  freely  soluble  in  chloroform  and  alcohol.  Its  characteristic  reactions  are  with  sulphuric 
acid  dark -brown,  red-brown  ; with  Frbhde’s  reagent,  dark-brown,  blood-red,  cherry-red; 
with  sugar  and  sulphuric  acid,  brown,  green  ; with  sulphuric  acid  and  bromine-water, 
violet-red,  cherry-red,  blood-red.  Delphisine  resembles  the  preceding  in  solubility  and 
behavior,  but  forms  wart-like  crystals  and  contains  more  nitrogen.  Staphisagrine  or 
staphisaine  was  first  obtained  by  Couerbe  (1833),  and  Dardel’s  staphisine  (1864)  seems  to 
be  identical  with  it.  It  melts  at  90°  C.  (194°  F.),  dissolves  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  in  200 
parts  of  water,  in  855  parts  of  ether,  and  is  very  freely  soluble  in  alcohol  and  chloro- 
form ; its  characteristic  reactions  are  with  sulphuric  acid  faintly  cherry-red,  violet;  with 
Frbhde’s  reagent,  brown-red,  violet-brown  ; with  sugar  and  sulphuric  acid,  dingy -brown  ; 
with  sulphuric  acid  and  bromine-water,  transiently  reddish  ; with  fuming  nitric  acid,  blood- 
red  ; with  nitric  acid  sp.  gr.  1.4,  brownish,  resinous.  The  integuments  of  the  seed  appear 
to  be  the  principal  seat  of  the  alkaloids,  one  of  which  yields  a crystalline  sparingly  solu- 
ble salt  with  chromic  acid  ( [Pharmacographia ). 

The  seeds  contain  from  25  to  30  per  cent,  of  non-drying  fixed  oils,  resins,  coloring  mat- 
ter and  other  constituents  not  investigated  ; they  yield  about  8 to  10  per  cent,  of  ash. 

Allied  Plants. — Delphinium  Coxsolida,  Linne . — Larkspur,  Lark's  claw,  Knight’s  gpur,  E. ; 
Pied  d’alouette,  F. ; Rittersporn,  Lerchenklaue,  Ilornkummel,  G. — This  glabrous  annual  herb, 
which  is  a common  weed  in  the  grain-fields  of  Central  Europe,  is  often  met  with  as  an  ornamental 
plant  in  gardens,  and  has  been  naturalized  in  some  parts  of  the  United  States  from  Pennsylvania 
to  Virginia.  It  has  the  leaves  dissected  into  narrow  linear  lobes,  and  its  purplish-blue  (in  culti- 
vation sometimes  whitish)  flowers  are  upon  rather  filiform  peduncles  in  loose  terminal  racemes. 
The  five  sepals  are  petal-like,  the  upper  one  produced  into  a spur  longer  than  the  calyx  ; the 
petals  are  united,  with  one  spur  enclosed  in  the  calyx-spur ; the  pistil  is  single,  and  the  smooth 
follicle  many-seeded.  The  seeds  are  quite  small,  irregularly  tetrahedral,  pointed,  rough,  and 
pitted  upon  the  surface,  with  a black  testa  and  a whitish  nucleus  consisting  of  am  oily  albumen 
and  a small  straight  embryo.  All  parts  of  the  plant  are  inodorous  and  have  a/bitter,  burning, 
and  biting  taste.  The  plant  is  said  to  have  received  its  specific  name  from  the/supposed  power 
of  its  flowers  of  healing  or  consolidating  wounds.  The  consonde  of  the  Frozen  is  comfrey. 

The  leaves,  flowers,  and  seeds  have  been  employed  in  medicine,  and  were  designated  as  herba , 
fiores , and  semen  consolidce , s.  consolidce  regalis , s.  calcatrippce : the  seeds  as  delphinium  ( U.  S.  P. 
1870).  Thos.  C.  Hopkins  (1839)  obtained  from  the  seeds  an  alkaloid,  which  he  regarded  as  iden- 
tical with  delphinine.  Masing  (1883)  obtained  from  the  dry  herb  0.02  per  cent,  of  calcatripine, 
which  is  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  and  chloroform,  and  appears  to  be  easily  decomposed  by  chem- 
icals. It  is  colored  by  sulphuric  acid  red-brown,  violet-brown,  gray-brown  ; by  Frdhde's  reagent, 
olive-green,  gray-yellow ; by  sugar  and  sulphuric  acid,  red-brown,  greenish-blue ; by  sulphuric 
acid  and  a nitrate,  orange-red,  golden-yellow. 

Delphinium  Ajacis,  Linn 6,  of  Southern  Europe,  is  more  frequently  cultivated  in  gardens  than 
the  preceding  species,  has  denser  and  longer  racemes  of  flowers  upon  shorter  and  thick  pedun- 
cles, and  pubescent  follicles,  and  possesses  the  same  properties. 

Delphinium  exaltatum,  Aiton , has  the  segments  of  the  leaves  narrow  and  cuneiform;  the 
bright  purplish-blue  numerous  flowers  are  in  narrow  racemes  and  have  a straight  spur  a little 
longer  than  the  calyx.  The  plant  grows  in  the  Middle  States. 

Delphinium  azureum,  Michaux , grows  from  Wisconsin  to  Arkansas  and  the  Rocky  Mountains, 
and  has  linear  leaf-lobes  and  sky-blue  or  whitish  flowers  with  a curved  or  ascending  spur. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  no  longer  official  plant,  or  larkspur,  D.  consolida,  of  which 
the  flowers,  as  well  as  the  seeds,  have  been  employed  in  medicine,  and  also  the'  tall  lark- 
spur (D.  exaltatum),  appear  to  possess  acrid  and  irritant  qualities,  and  in  large  doses  to 
excite  vomiting  and  purging.  They  have  been  used  in  the  treatment  of  scrofula , dropsy , 
and  spasmodic  asthma , generally  in  the  form  of  a tincture,  which  has  also  been  much 
employed  as  a lotion  or  in  an  ointment  for  the  cure  of  itch  and  the  destruction  of  lice. 
D.  consolida  has  of  late  been  recommended  for  similar  purposes  ( Bull . de  Therap .,  civ.  480) 
and  for  ulcerated  buboes.  An  infusion  of  the  flowers  in  water  or  in  vinegar,  3 parts  in  100, 
has  been  used.  Analogous  qualities  are  ascribed  to  D.  Ajacis  by  Benvenuti,  who  states 
that  it  hastens  the  cicatrization  of  wounds,  as  D.  consolida  is  also  believed  to  do.  Its 
effects  are  ascribed  to  the  alkaloid  delphinine , which  has  also  been  obtained  from  D. 
staphisagria.  It  has  an  acrid,  hot  taste,  irritates  the  fauces,  and  is  emetic  and  purgative. 
In  an  ointment  and  rubbed  upon  the  skin,  delphinine  causes  a burning  and  prickling  sen- 
sation and  a transient  redness,  such  as  veratrine  occasions.  In  the  case  of  a man  affected 
with  torpor  of  the  brain  and  abnormal  excitability  of  the  spinal  cord  Albers  observed  the 
following  effects  of  doses  of  Gm.  0.015  (gr.  ^)  repeated  four  times  a day  for  several  days  : 
salivation,  burning,  redness,  and  swelling  of  the  throat,  nausea,  retching,  loss  of  appetite, 
straining  at  stool  without  evacuation,  dysury,  prickling  and  itching  of  the  skin,  great 


1514 


ST  A TICK 


restlessness,  and  a small  but  otherwise  normal  pulse.  The  intelligence  was  not  further 
impaired,  and  the  muscular  power  was  rather  augmented  (Prayer  Vierteljahrs .,  lxii. ; 
Analelct.,  p.  14).  According  to  Boehm,  staphisagrine  (staphisaine)  is  a much  less  power- 
ful poison  to  animals  than  delphinine,  whose  action,  however,  resembles  its  own  in  caus- 
ing death  by  asphyxia.  But  it  does  not  produce  the  energetic  convulsions  of  delphinine, 
nor  depress  the  pulse  like  that  alkaloid ; nor  does  it  affect  the  cerebral  functions,  for  the 
animals  under  its  influence  continue  to  react  almost  until  death,  and  do  not  fall  into  a 
comatose  condition.  Husemann  and  Hilger  epitomize  its  physical  action  thus : Delphi- 
nine  acts  chiefly  on  the  respiration  and  the  circulation,  and  but  little  on  the  peripheral 
nerves.  Primarily  it  affects  the  respiratory  muscles  most ; in  which  respect,  and  in  the 
fact  that  its  fatal  action  may  be  prevented  by  artificial  respiration,  it  is  analogous  to 
aconite  ( Die  Pflanzenstoffe , 2te  Aufl.,  p.  617  ; Robert,  Amer.  Jour.  Pliar .,  lxii.  ’394). 
On  the  other  hand,  Gauthier  places  its  analgesic  quality  highest ; next,  in  large  doses,  it 
paralyzes  the  motor  nerves  ; it  first  excites  the  heart,  and  ultimately  arrests  it  in  diastole  ; 
it  renders  respiration  irregular,  then  tetanizes  the  respiratory  muscles  and  kills  by  asphyxia ; 
it  excites  vomiting  and  diarrhoea  ; it  first  contracts  and  then  dilates  the  pupil  (Land.  Med. 
Record , Oct.  15,  1887).  From  the  citations  it  is  evident  that. different  experimenters  have 
reached  inharmonious  conclusions. 

Delphinine  has  been  used  with  reputed  success  in  the  local  treatment  of  neuralgia  by 
applying  it  over  the  superficial  sensitive  points  of  the  affected  nerves.  Earache  and 
toothache  have  also  been  relieved  by  it.  The  dose  of  delphinine  has  been  stated  to  be 
Gm.  0.03  (gr.  ss),  repeated  at  intervals  of  three  or  four  hours,  but  more  recent  authorities 
state  it  should  be  between  Gm.  0.001-0.006  (-^  and  gr.),  given  internally  and  not  sub- 
cutaneously. A solution  of  from  Gm.  1-2  in  Gm.  32  (16  to  30  grains  of  the  alkaloid  in 
an  ounce  of  alcohol)  may  be  used  as  a liniment,  and  an  ointment  may  contain  Gm. 
0.60—2.60  (10  to  40  grains)  of  delphinine  to  an  ounce  of  lard. 

STATICE. — Marsh  Rosemary. 

Inkroot , Sea-lavender , E. ; Romarin  des  marais , Lavande  triste , F.  ; Strandnelke , G. 

The  root  of  Statice  Limonium,  Linne , variety  caroliniana,  Gray  (Statice  caroliniana, 
Walter).  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 166. 

Nat.  Ord. — Plumbaginacese. 

Origin. — Marsh  rosemary  is  a perennial  acaulescent  plant  which  grows  near  the  sea- 
shore and  in  inland  salt  marshes  of  Southern  and  Western  Europe.  The  variety  carolini- 
ana is  an  American  plant,  and  grows  in  similar  localities  on  the  Atlantic  coast.  It  has  a 
tuft  of  spatulate-oblong  or  oblanceolate,  bristly  pointed,  one-ribbed  leaves,  and  produces 
in  August  a much-branched,  panicled  scape,  bearing  numerous  small  lavender-colored  or 
purplish-blue  flowers  ; the  fruit  is  a one-seeded  utricle  contained  in  the  base  of  the  calyx. 
The  root  should  be  collected  in  autumn. 

Description. — The  root  of  marsh  rosemary  is  several-headed,  from  30-60  Cm.  (1  to 
2 feet)  long  and  25  Mm.  (1  inch)  or  more  thick.  The  upper  part  is  closely  annu- 
late, and  the  stout  branches,  after  drying,  are  longitudinally  wrinkled.  The  root  has 
a deep  brownish-purple  color  externally,  is  somewhat  paler  internally,  fleshy  in  the 
fresh  state,  and  after  drying  tough  and  compact.  It  breaks  with  a short  fracture,  ex- 
hibiting a rather  thick  bark,  and  in  the  meditullium  narrow  pale-yellow  wood-wedges. 
The  root  is  without  odor  and  has  a strongly  astringent  and  slightly  bitter  taste.  E.  L. 
Reed  (1879)  stated  that  when  collected  from  swampy  localities  the  root  is  long  and  little 
branched,  but  when  grown  in  a sandy  soil  it  is  short  and  considerably  branched. 

Constituents. — Edward  Parrish  (1842)  found  in  the  root  12.4  per  cent,  of  tannin, 
a trace  of  volatile  oil,  a little  caoutchouc-like  matter,  gum,  and  other  common  vegetable 
principles ; among  the  inorganic  constituents  the  sodium  sulphates  and  the  chlorides  and 
magnesium  are  found.  H.  K.  Bowman  (1869)  estimated  the  tannin  by  means  of  gelatin, 
and  determined  the  amount  to  be  from  14  to  18  per  cent,  of  the  air-dry  root.  It  reacts 
greenish-black  with  ferric  salts. 

Allied  Drugs. — The  roots  of  most  other  species  of  Statice  have  similar  properties,  St.  speciosa, 
LinnS , is  used  in  Siberia ; St.  latifolia,  Smith , in  Southern  Russia ; and  St.  brasiliensis  in  Brazil, 
where  it  is  known  as  baycuru  and  biacuru ; the  latter  contains  12.5  per  cent,  of  tannin  and  1.3 
per  cent,  of  acrid  pungent  resin  (Ch.  Symes,  1878).  F.  A.  Dalpe  (1884)  obtained  from  the  air-dry 
root  9.7  per  cent,  of  ash  and  an  alkaloid,  baycurine , which  crystallizes  from  ether  and  chloroform 
in  small  white  feathery  needles  and  dissolves  in  sulphuric  acid  with  a red  color.  St.  mucronata, 
Linn£,  of  Morocco,  has  a root  with  a whitish  meditullium,  and  is  said  to  possess  nervine  prop- 
erties. 


STILLINGIA. 


1515 


Action  and  Uses. — Marsh  rosemary  was  anciently  renowned  as  a remedy  for  pul- 
monary and  uterine  haemorrhage,  and  for  dysentery  and  other  fluxes.  In  recent  times  it 
has  been  used,  like  kino  and  other  vegetable  astringents,  for  similar  purposes,  and  still 
oftener  in  gargles  for  the  cure  of  ulcerated,  aphthous,  and  other  forms  of  sore  throat. 
The  emetic  action  ascribed  to  it  is  probably  developed  only  when  its  dose  is  excessively 
large.  It  may  be  used  in  tincture,  decoction,  or  infusion.  S.  brasiliensis,  or  baycuru,  is 
used  by  the  natives  “ as  an  astringent  and  discutient  remedy  in  all  kinds  of  enlargements 
and  glandular  swellings,  internally  as  a fomentative,  and  frequently  as  a vapor  ” ( Ain. 
Jour.  Phar .,  lvi.  361). 

STILLINGIA,  U.  S.— Stillingia. 

Queens  root , Queen's  delight , Silver  leaf,  E. ; Stillingie , Fr.,  Gr. 

The  root  of  Stillingia  sylvatica,  Linne,  s.  Sapium  sylvaticum,  Torrey.  Bentley  and 
Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 241.  * 

Nat.  Ord. — Euphorbiacese. 

Origin. — A perennial  lactiferous  herb  growing  in  dry  and  sandy  soil  in  the  Southern 
United  States  as  far  north  as  Eastern  Virginia.  The  stems  are  erect  60-90  Cm.  (2  or  3 
feet)  high,  and  have  nearly  sessile,  alternate,  elliptic,  or  lance-oblong,  finely  serrate, 
smooth,  and  spreading  leaves.  The  flowers  are  small,  in  dense  catkin-like  spikes,  the 
upper  ones  with  two  stamens,  the  lower  ones  pistillate,  fertile,  and  with  three  diverging 
stigmas  on  the  thick  style.  The  root  should  be  collected  late  in  autumn  or  early  in 
spring. 

Description. — Stillingia-root  is  about  30  Cm.  (1  foot)  long,  nearly  5 Cm.  (2  inches) 
in  diameter  above,  tapering  downward,  little  branched,  but  somewhat  fibrous.  It  is 
crowned  with  the  short  remnants  or  scars  of  numerous  stems,  is  fleshy  when  fresh,  after 
drying  compact  and  wrinkled  longitudinally.  Externally,  it  is  of  a light  brown-gray 
color,  and  internally  of  a pinkish  tint.  The  root  is  tough  and  tenacious  and  breaks  with 
a fibrous  fracture.  On  transverse  section  are  seen  a rather  thick  bark,  the  inner  layer  of 
which  is  pale  pinkish-brown  and  dotted  with  numerous  brown-yellow  resin-cells,  and  a 
radially  striate  porous  meditullium  containing  resin-cells  in  the  medullary  rays.  The 
odor  of  the  fresh  root  is  rather  strong  and  disagreeable,  but  after  drying  is  much  weaker 
and  less  unpleasant ; its  taste  is  bitter  and  acrid,  leaving  a burning  impression  on  the 
palate. 

Constituents. — From  some  experiments  made  by  Wm.  Saunders  (1868)  it  appears 
that,  though  the  odor  of  the  root  may  be  diminished  on  drying  and  keeping,  the  pungency 
is  scarcely  lessened  by  exposure  for  a year  to  light  and  air.  The  pungency  seems  to  be 
due  to  a resinous  constituent  which  is  readily  soluble  in  alcohol.  The  so-called  oil  of 
stillingia , as  found  in  the  market,  is  intended  to  be  the  ethereal  extract,  but  sometimes 
possesses  scarcely  any  of  the  persistent  acrimony  of  the  root.  Stillingia  contains  also 
starch,  tannin,  and,  according  to  J.  II.  Harmanson  (1882),  another  principle,  which,  like 
tannin,  discharges  the  blue  color  of  iodide  of  starch,  and  which  is  insoluble  in  alcohol 
and  ether,  but  readily  soluble  in  hot  water,  and  is  destroyed  on  being  boiled  with  diluted 
acids. 

Allied  Species. — Stillingia  (Excaecaria,  Muller , Croton,  Linni,  Sapium,  Roxburgh)  sebifera, 
Michaux.  This  is  a medium-sized  tree  indigenous  to  China  and  somewhat  cultivated  in  tropical 
countries.  The  ovate  three-celled  fruit  contains  three  seeds  imbedded  in  a solid  inodorous  fat, 
which  consists  principally  of  palmitin,  with  a little  stearin,  melts  at  44.5°  C.  (112°  F.),  and  is 
known  as  Chinese  tallow.  After  separating  the  tallow  by  boiling  water,  the  seeds  yield  by  pressure 
a drying  oil  which  melts  at  35°  C.  (95°  F.),  and  then  remains  liquid  for  a long  time. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  root,  when  chewed  and  the  juice  swallowed,  causes  heat  in 
the  mouth  and  fauces  and  along  the  oesophagus,  increased  salivation,  and  burning  in  the 
stomach,  and  in  susceptible  persons  vomiting  also.  It  loses  these  qualities  by  drying 
(Frost).  Stillingia  was  originally  introduced  as  an  emetic  and  alterative,  and  has  been 
more  or  less  used,  especially  in  the  Southern  States,  for  the  cure  of  scrofida , syphilis , and 
cutaneous  and  hepatic  disorders.  The  evidences  of  its  power  do  not  appear  to  be  very 
convincing.  Thus,  it  is  credited  with  curing  phagedenic  chancres  which  nothing  else 
could  arrest,  but  it  appears  that  with  each  dose  of  a decoction  of  stillingia  4 drops  of 
nitric  acid  were  given.  Now,  nitric  acid  is  reputed  to  cure  syphilis.  In  1846,  Frost 
claimed  for  stillingia  curative  virtues  in  scrofula  and  syphilis,  but  he  associated  with  it 
sarsaparilla,  guaiac,  and  sassafras  ( Charleston  Jour.,  i.  617).  A similar  estimate  must  be 
formed  of  the  judgment  expressed  by  Lopez  ( New  Orleans  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  ii.  40), 


1516 


STRAMONIUM. 


and  by  Cornell  ( Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour .,  Aug.  1857,  p.  37).  Stillingia  is  best  given 
in  a decoction  made  with  Gm.  32  of  the  bruised  root  (1  ounce)  in  Gm.  750  (1J  pints) 
of  water,  gradually  reduced  to  a pint.  Dose , a wine-glassful  two  or  three  times  a day. 
The  dose  of  the  powder  is  Gm.  1—2  (gr.  xv— xxx). 


STRAMONIUM. — Stramonium  ; Thornapple. 


Stramoine,  Poinme-epineuse , Fr.  ; Stechapfel , Dornapfel , G. ; Estramonio , Toloache , Sp. 
Datura  Strain oninm,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 192. 

Nat.  Ord. — Solanaceae. 

1.  The  Leaves.  Stramonii  folia,  TJ.  S.,  P.  G.  Herba  stramonii. — Stramonium- 
leaves;  Thornapple-leaves,  E. ; Feuilles  de  stramoine,  Fr. ; Stechapfelblatter,  G.  ; Hojas 
del  estramonio,  Sp. 


2.  The  Seeds.  Stramonii  semen,  U.  S.  Stramonii  semina,  Br. ; Stramonium- 
seeds,  E.  ; Semences  (graines)  de  stramoine,  Fr. ; Stechapfelsamen,  G. ; Semillas  del 
estramonio,  Sp. 

Origin. — Stramonium  is  known  in  the  United  States  as  Jamestown  weed  and  Jimson 
weed.  It  is  very  unequally  distributed,  being  quite  common  in  some  localities  and  rare 

in  others,  and  grows  in  waste  places  and  along  roadsides 
Fig.  293.  throughout  the  greater  part  of  the  world,  with  the  excep- 

tion of  the  colder  countries.  Its  native  country  is  not 
certainly  known,  but  it  is  now  by  most  botanists  believed 
to  be  indigenous  to  Asia.  De  Candolle  refers  it  to  the 
countries  bordering  on  the  Caspian  Sea  ; others  regard  it 
as  coming  from  Northern  India.  It  is  a coarse-looking 
annual  weed,  with  a white,  conical,  branching  root  and 
an  erect,  nearly  smooth,  pale-green,  and  succulent  stem, 


Fig.  294. 


Capsule,  mature,  with  two  valves  removed, 
showing  partitions  and  position  of  seeds  (reduced). 


Fig.  295. 


Datura  Stramonium,  Linnt : flowering 
branch. 


Stramonium-seed  and  section, 
magnified  3 diam. 


with  repeatedly  forked  branches.  The  flowers  are  on  short  stalks  singly  in  the  forks, 
have  a long  tubular  five-angled  calyx  with  a short  five-toothed  limb,  and  a white,  tubular, 
funnel-shaped,  five-plaited,  and  five-pointed  corolla.  The  capsule  is  5—7  Cm.  (2  to  3 
inches)  long,  surrounded  below  by  the  spreading  base  of  the  calyx,  ovate  in  shape, 
obtusely  quadrangular,  covered  with  spines,  in  the  lower  portion  four-celled,  but  only 
two-celled  above,  opens  by  four  valves,  and  contains  numerous  seeds. 

Datura  Tatula,  Linne , resembles  the  official  plant  very  closely,  is  found  in  similar 
localities,  and  is  distinguished  by  its  purple-colored  stem,  the  darker-green  foliage  with 
occasionally  purplish  petioles  and  nerves,  and  by  the  purple  color  of  the  flowers  and 
anthers.  Many  botanists  regard  it  merely  as  a variety  of  Stramonium,  but  there  are  evi- 
dent hybrids  between  the  two  forms,  and,  according  to  Naudin  (1852),  the  seedlings  from 
these  are  again  either  D.  Stramonium  or  D.  Tatula.  De  Candolle  considers  this  species 
to  be  indigenous  to  South  America,  but  it  has  spread  over  the  greater  part  of  the  world. 

Description. — 1.  The  Leaves.  These  should  be  collected  while  the  plant  is  in 
bloom,  which  commences  early  in  summer.  They  are  situated  on  the  forks  on  long 
petioles,  vary  in  length  from  7-20  Cm.  (3  to  8 inches)  and  in  width  from  5—12  Cm.  (2  to 
5 inches),  are  ovate  in  shape,  and  have  an  unequal  base,  one  side  being  decurrent  on  the 


STRAMONIUM. 


1517 


petiole.  The  apex  is  pointed  and  the  margin  coarsely  and  unequally  sinuate-toothed. 
The  leaves  are  rather  fleshy  when  fresh,  and  have  a disagreeable  narcotic  odor,  but  after 
drying  are  thin,  brittle,  and  nearly  inodorous.  Young  leaves  are  downy  ; older  ones  are 
smooth  or  slightly  downy  on  the  nerves  beneath,  and  frequently  perforated  with  nearly 
circular  holes.  Their  taste  is  unpleasant,  saline,  and  bitter. 

2.  The  Seeds.  When  ripe  the  seeds  are  of  a dull  brownish-black  color,  about  4 Mm. 
(i  inch)  long,  2.5  Mm.  (T^  inch)  broad,  and  about  1 Mm.  inch)  thick  ; they  are  reni- 
form,  flattened,  finely  pitted,  and  somewhat  coarsely  reticulate,  and  have  the  hilum  on  the 
sinus.  The  testa  is  hard,  and  encloses  a white  oily  albumen  in  which  is  imbedded  the 
cylindrical  embryo,  curving  parallel  with  the  edges  of  the  seed.  The  seeds  are  inodorous 
or  nearly  so,  except  after  being  bruised,  when  they  emit  a heavy  unpleasant  odor ; their 
taste  is  oily  and  bitter. 

Constituents. — The  alkaloid  daturine  was  discovered  in  the  seeds  by  Geiger  and 
Hesse  (1833),  and  subsequently  found  in  other  parts  of  the  plant.  According  to  Brandes, 
the  seeds  contain  it  combined  with  malic  acid.  Von  Planta  (1850)  pronounced  this  alka- 
loid to  be  identical  with  atropine  in  composition,  solubility,  and  fusibility.  But  the 
physical  experiments  performed  by  Yon  Schroff  (1852)  demonstrated  the  two  alkaloids, 
though  acting  qualitatively  alike,  to  be  very  unequal  in  their  effects,  daturine  being  about 
twice  as  strong  as  atropine.  Subsequently,  Erhard  (1866)  observed  also  some  of  their 
salts  to  differ  in  their  crystalline  forms.  These  differences  have  been  explained  through 
the  researches  of  Ladenburg  (1880),  according  to  which  daturine  is  a mixture  of  atropine 
and  hyoscyamine  (see  pp.  305  and  854),  the  latter  usually  predominating;  but  Ernst 
Schmidt  (1881)  obtained  also  daturine  which  consisted  principally  of  atropine.  The 
other  constituents  of  the  seeds  are  about  25  per  cent,  of  a bland  fixed  oil,  mucilaginous, 
resinous,  and  other  common  principles,  and  about  3 per  cent,  of  ash.  Trommsdorff  iso- 
lated stramonin  as  a white  tasteless  powder,  insoluble  in  water,  readily  soluble  in  fixed 
and  volatile  oils,  soluble  in  ether,  and  sparingly  soluble  in  alcohol ; it  does  not  appear  to 
have  been  further  investigated.  The  leaves  contain  only  about  .02  per  cent,  of  alkaloid, 
besides  mucilage,  albumen,  potassium  nitrate,  etc. ; they  yield  about  17  per  cent,  of  ash. 

Allied  Drugs. — Datura  alba,  Nees,  of  India,  has  rather  small  subglobular  and  sharply 
spinous  capsules  and  irregular  triangular  yellowish-brown,  roughish  seeds,  which  are  used  like 
those  of  the  preceding  species. 

Datura  metel,  Linne,  which  grows  in  Africa  and  Southern  Asia,  has  obliquely  cordate,  some- 
what sinuate  toothed  or  nearly  entire,  soft-hairy  leaves,  and  pendulous  spiny  capsules  with 
brownish-yellow  seeds. 

Datura  sanguinea,  Ruiz  et  Pavon , a shrub  or  small  tree  of  Peru,  has  oblong,  pointed,  and 
sinuate-toothed,  on  the  lower  side  downy,  leaves,  and  large  flowers  with  a corolla,  the  lower  half 
of  which  is  yellow  and  the  upper  half  blood-red. 

Action  and  Uses. — Stramonium  and  belladonna  and  their  respective  alkaloids, 
daturine  and  atropine,  are  almost  identical  in  their  action  upon  man.  Indeed,  they  are 
held  to  be  quite  identical  by  some  of  the  highest  authorities  ( Archives  gen.,  Jan.  1881, 
p.  12;  Am.  Jour.  Pharm .,  lvi.  440).  The  powdered  leaves  of  stramonium  in  Gm.  0.12 
(2-grain)  doses  slightly  increase  the  fulness  and  frequency  of  the  pulse,  occasion  a little 
giddiness,  and  render  the  skin  warm  and  the  hands  and  face  moist.  Gm.  0.30  (5-grain) 
doses  cause  dilatation  of  the  pupils,  difficulty  of  speech,  nausea,  thirst,  dryness  of  the 
throat,  relaxation  of  the  bowels,  an  increased  flow  of  urine,  and  some  feverishness. 
Poisonous  doses  produce  a condition  like  that  of  high  fever  with  delirium  ; the  patient 
may  talk  volubly  and  laugh,  or  become  violent,  biting  and  striking  furiously,  and  usually 
there  is  evidence  of  various,  and  sometimes  grotesque,  hallucinations  ; the  movements 
may  resemble  those  in  chorea  or  in  alcoholic  intoxication  ; the  head  is  dizzy,  heavy,  or 
light,  and  there  is  a tendency  to  faint ; the  face  is  flushed,  and  occasionally  swollen,  the 
eye  bright,  the  conjunctiva  injected,  the  pupil  dilated,  and  the  sight  confused  ; the  skin 
is  sometimes  covered  with  a bright-red  eruption,  which  may  be  followed  by  a crop  of 
minute  vesicles,  or  the  eruption  may  resemble  erysipelas  at  first  and  measles  afterward. 
In  some  cases  hydrophobic  phenomena  occur,  the  sight  of  water  or  the  attempt  to  drink 
producing  a convulsive  paroxysm.  In  rare  fatal  cases  the  phenomena  of  excitement 
sooner  or  later  are  succeeded  by  stupor,  insensibility,  relaxation,  and  even  paralysis;  the 
pupils  are  inordinately  dilated,  the  pulse  is  rapid  arid  thready,  and  the  skin  hot  and  per- 
spiring. In  no  case  is  there  any  tendency  to  sleep,  but.  on  the  contrary,  persistent 
insomnia.  When  recovery  takes  place  there  is  no  distinct  recollection  of  what  has 
occurred.  Among  the  perversions  of  the  senses  it  has  been  noticed  that  all  black  objects 
appear  green.  A fatal  case  in  a healthy  man  of  fifty  is  reported  by  Newton  {Med.  Record , 


1518 


STRAMONIUM. 


xviii.  289),  and  one  of  a child  (Med.  News , lvii.  272).  Cases  of  recovery  have  been  pub- 
lished by  Terry  (Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  Feb.  1882,  p.  123),  Rubio,  etc.  (Phila. 
Med.  Times  xii.  458 ; xiii.  280)  ; McCutcheon  (New  Orleans  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  Oct. 
1885)  ; Gratiot  (Jour.  Am.  Med.  Assoc.,  vi.  400)  ; Pedicini  (Therap.  Gaz .,  xiii.  844).  A 
case  of  death  following  the  application  of  a poultice  of  stramonium-leaves  to  an  open 
cancer  of  the  breast  has  been  related  to  us  (Nov.  1871).  A curious  illustration  of  stra- 
monium intoxication  is  presented  by  the  narrative  of  its  use  in  Mecca  for  criminal  pur- 
poses (Jour.  Am.  Med.  Assoc.,  i.  22).  Daturine  occasions  phenomena  essentially  iden- 
tical with  the  above  and  with  those  caused  by  atropine,  but  with  more  depression,  failure 
of  the  pulse,  and  insensibility  ; according  to  some  observers,  it  dilates  the  pupils  more 
rapidly,  although  less  persistently,  than  atropine.  Other  reporters,  however,  furnish  a 
different  result,  asserting  that  as  a mydriatic  daturine  is  three  times  as  strong  as  atropine 
and  its  action  more  prolonged.  It  is  generally  accepted,  as  being  proved  by  the  above 
phenomena,  that  stramonium  and  daturine  expend  their  power  mainly  upon  the  vaso- 
motor nerves,  in  small  doses  contracting,  but  in  large  doses,  paralyzing,  the  capillaries. 
These  actions  are  identical  with  those  which  experiment  and  observation  have  shown  to 
be  exerted  by  hyoscy amine.  Regnault  and  Valmont  concluded  from  their  experiments 
that  daturine  is  identical  with  atropine,  and  that  hyoscyamine  is  often  really  impure 
atropine  (Archives  gen.,  Jan.  1881,  p.  16),  and  Oliver  reached  the  same  conclusion  in 
regard  to  the  action  of  daturine  and  hyoscyamine  (Amer.  Jour.  Med.  Sci.,  July,  1882, 
P-  102). 

At  one  time  stramonium  was  believed  to  be  a valuable  remedy  in  various  forms  of 
insanity,  in  mania  as  well  as  in  melancholia,  but  experience  has  not  confirmed  the  favor- 
able judgment.  Yet  there  are  isolated  cases  in  which  phantasmal  delirium  appears  to 
have  been  removed  by  this  medicine  (I.  Moreau,  Le  Traitement  des  Hallucinations,  1841). 
A similar  statement  may  be  made  respecting  its  use  in  epilepsy,  and  there  is  at  least 
every  reason  to  regard  it  as  not  less  efficacious  than  belladonna  in  that  disease.  It  is 
said  to  be  employed  in  India  in  the  treatment  of  hydrophobia  (Times  and  Gaz.,  Dec. 
1885,  p.  894).  The  utility  of  stramonium  in  spasmodic  asthma  cannot  rationally  be 
called  in  question  ; the  evidence  in  its  favor  is  drawn  from  too  many  and  too  widely  dif- 
ferent sources  to  be  gainsaid.  The  scepticism  upon  this  point  expressed  by  certain 
writers  may  fairly  be  attributed  to  their  having  failed  to  discriminate  between  pure 
asthma  and  asthma  or  dyspnoea  connected  with  pulmonary  or  cardiac  disease.  In  the 
latter  category  the  medicine  must  usually  fail,  either  partially  or  wholly,  and  may  even 
aggravate  the  symptoms,  while  in  pure  nervous  asthma  there  can  be  no  doubt  of  its 
power  to  relieve  the  paroxysms.  It  should  be  used  as  follows  : Gm.  1 (about  15  grains) 
of  dried  stramonium-leaves  or  half  that  quantity  of  the  fibres  of  the  dried  root  may  be 
smoked  at  once,  mixed  with  sage-leaves  or  tobacco  in  a pipe  or  ,&  cigarette.  Or  else 
tobacco  steeped  in  a strong  decoction  of  stramonium  may  be  smoked  in  a pipe,  or  cigars 
impregnated  with  the  same  liquid  may  be  used.  If  possible,  the  smoke  should  be  drawn 
into  the  lungs.  An  atomized  decoction  of  stramonium  has  been  used,  but  is  less  efficient. 
Sawyer  (Birmingham  Med.  Rev.,  May,  1887)  recommends  1 part  each  of  potassium 
nitrate  and  anise-seed,  and  2 parts  of  stramonium-leaves,  powdered,  formed  into  cones, 
and  lighted,  the  patient  to  inhale  the  fumes.  Of  other  spasmodic  affections  more  or  less 
benefited  by  this  medicine  may  be  mentioned  ivhooping  cough,  dysmenorrhcea , and  reten- 
tion of  urine  caused  by  spasm  of  the  neck  of  the  bladder.  In  the  latter  case  bruised 
fresh  stramonium-leaves  may  be  used  or  stramonium  ointment  may  be  rubbed  upon  the 
perineum.  The  rectal  tenesmus,  burning  pain,  etc.  due  to  haemorrhoids,  fissure,  and  other 
affections  of  the  anus  and  rectum  may  be  greatly  palliated  by  stramonium.  A con- 
venient formula  for  this  purpose  is  the  following  : R.  Ung.  stramon.,  Ung.  gallae,  Cerat. 
plumbi  subacet.,  aa  q.  s. — M.  S.  Apply  within  the  anus  after  defecation  and  washing. 

The  apparent  identity  of  the  physiological  actions  of  stramonium  and  belladonna  and 
of  their  respective  alkaloids  naturally  suggested  an  identity  in  their  therapeutic  powers. 
But  it  does  not  really  exist.  Their  differences  are  most  conspicuous  in  the  treatment  of 
neuralgic  affections.  In  these  belladonna  is  much  more  efficient  than  stramonium  ; indeed, 
while  the  former  and  atropine  are  among  the  most  reliable  of  antineuralgic  medicines, 
stramonium  is  comparatively  inefficacious  and  daturine  has  been  but  little  used.  More- 
over, stramonium  is  much  more  employed  as  a local  anodyne  in  superficial  neuralgia, 
while  belladonna  is  even  more  active  as  an  internal  than  as  a topical  remedy  for  these 
as  well  as  for  the  deeper-seated  neuralgic  affections.  If  stramonium  is  prescribed  for 
them  internally,  it  should  be  given  in  such  repeated  doses  as  will  develop  the  specific 
action  of  the  medicine. 


STR  ON  Til  BR  OMID  UM. 


1519 


In  subacute  and  chronic  articular  and  in  muscular  rheumatism  bruised  fresh  stramo- 
nium-leaves produce  an  anodyne  effect,  and  the  ointment  may  be  applied  with  some  bene- 
fit, but  the  action  of  either  is  inferior  to  that  of  belladonna  or  of  opium  ; the  leaves  make 
a convenient  and  efficient  anodyne  application  to  bruises,  sprains , and  various  local 
injuries,  including  poisoning  by  Rhus  toxicodendron.  There  is  some  authority  for  attribut- 
ing to  stramonium  in  full  and  repeated  doses  a certain  control  over  the  course  of  acute 
articular  rheumatism,  but  the  evidence  is  too  scanty  and  ambiguous  to  inspire  much  con- 
fidence. 

In  the  absence  of  belladonna,  stramonium  may  be  used  to  produce  dilatation  of  the 
pupil.  It  has  this  effect  whether  it  is  given  internally  or  is  topically  applied.  Daturine 
bas  been  employed  for  the  same  purpose,  and,  as  before  stated,  by  some  is  held  to  be  less 
irritating  to  the  eye  than  atropine,  while  others  make  the  opposite  statement. 

The  average  dose  of  the  leaves  or  the  root  of  stramonium  is  about  Gm.  0.12  (gr.  ij) 
and  of  the  seeds  about  Gm.  0.06  (gr.  j)  repeated  at  intervals  of  several  hours  and  until 
it  begins  to  dilate  the  pupil.  The  dose  of  daturine,  hypodermically,  is  from  Gm.  0.001- 

0.0of(*to*), 

The  physiological  and  clinical  antidote  to  stramonium  is  opium.  Numerous  cases  are 
reported  in  which  opium  or  its  liquid  preparations,  and  especially  morphine  hypoderm- 
ically, have  apparently  saved  the  lives  of  persons  poisoned  by  stramonium.  In  the  case 
of  an  adult  Gm.  1 (gr.  xv)  of  morphine  hydrochlorate  was  administered  by  the  mouth 
before  the  safety  of  the  patient  was  secured  (Anderson,  Ranking' s Abst.,  xxx.  276).  A 
case  is  reported  by  Roth  ( British  Med.  Jour.,  Sept.  19,  1885)  in  which  repeated  sub- 
cutaneous injections  of  about  y1^  gr.  of  pilocarpine  appeared  to  control  the  symptoms  and 
hasten  recovery. 

STRONTII  BROMIDUM,  77.  Strontium  Bromide. 

Bromure  de  strontium , Fr. ; Strontiumbromid , G. 

Formula  SrBr2.6H20.  Molecular  weight  354.58. 

Preparation. — Strontium  bromide  is  best  made  by  neutralizing  diluted  hydro- 
bromic  acid  with  strontium  carbonate  (free  from  barium  and  calcium)  in  excess,  filtering 
the  mixture,  and  evaporating  the  clear  solution  until  crystals  begin  to  form.  Upon  cool- 
ing the  salt  separates  in  crystals,  which  are  then  carefully  dried  to  prevent  efflorescence 
at  high  temperature. 

Properties. — Strontium  bromide  occurs  in  colorless,  transparent,  hexagonal  crystals, 
odorless  and  having  a bitter  saline  taste ; they  are  very  deliquescent,  and  should  be  kept 
in  well-stoppered  vials.  The  salt  is  soluble  in  1.05  parts  of  water  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  and 
in  0.5  part  of  boiling twater,  the  aqueous  solution  being  neutral  to  litmus-paper:  it  is 
readily  soluble  in  alcohol,  and  is  precipitated  from  this  solution  upon  the  addition  of  an 
equal  volume  of  ether,  in  which  it  is  insoluble.  To  a non-luminous  flame  the  salt  com- 
municates an  intensely  red  color.  When  heated  the  crystals  first  melt,  and  at  120°  C. 
(248°  F.)  lose  all  their  water  of  crystallization  (30.4  per  cent.)  ; the  anhydrous  salt  fuses 
at  630°  C.  (1166°  F.).  With  calcium  sulphate  the  aqueous  solution  of  the  salt  (1  in  20) 
slowly  forms  a white  precipitate  of  strontium  sulphate,  insoluble  in  diluted  acids ; the 
same  reaction  occurs  more  quickly  with  diluted  sulphuric  acid,  potassium  sulphate,  and 
other  soluble  sulphates.  With  potassium  chromate  it  forms  a yellow  precipitate  of 
strontium  chromate  soluble  in  acetic  acid.  With  ammonium  carbonate  or  sodium  car- 
bonate it  forms  a white  precipitate  of  strontium  carbonate,  soluble  with  effervescence  in 
acetic  acid.  If  a few  drops  of  chloroform  be  added  to  5 Cc.  of  the  solution,  then  1 Cc. 
of  chlorine-water  and  the  mixture  shaken,  the  liberated  bromine  will  dissolve  in  the  chlo- 
roform, communicating  to  it  a yellow  or  brownish-yellow  color. 

Tests. — 11  A 5 per  cent,  aqueous  solution  of  strontium  bromide  should  form  no  pre- 
cipitate with  potassium  dichromate  test-solution  (absence  of  barium),  nor  should  it  be 
affected  by  hydrogen  sulphide  either  before  or  after  addition  of  a drop  of  hydrochloric 
acid  (absence  of  arsenic,  lead,  copper,  etc.),  nor  by  ammonium  sulphide  test-solution 
(absence  of  iron,  aluminum,  etc.).’’ — (77!  S.)  Iodine  will  be  detected  by  the  blue  color 
produced  upon  addition  of  1 or  2 drops  of  chlorine-water  to  5 Cc.  of  the  aqueous  solution, 
previously  mixed  with  a little  gelatinized  starch.  The  salt  is  usually  found  pure,  except- 
ing a small  proportion  of  chloride,  the  limit  of  which  is  prescribed  by  the  U.  S.  P.  at  2 
per  cent.,  as  follows : If  0.3  Gm.  of  strontium  bromide,  rendered  anhydrous  by  thorough 
drying  before  being  weighed,  be  dissolved  in  10  Cc.  of  water,  and  3 drops  of  potassium 
dichromate  test-solution  be  added,  it  should  require  not  more  than  24.6  Cc.  of  decinormal 


1520 


STRONT1I  IODIDUM. 


silver  nitrate  solution  to  produce  a permanent  red  color.  The  reaction  is  identical  with 
that  explained  under  Potassium  Bromide:  each  0.1289  Cc.  of  decinormal  silver  nitrate 
solution  used  in  excess  of  24.32  Cc.,  the  quantity  necessary  to  precipitate  0.3  Gm.  of 
anhydrous  absolute  strontium  bromide,  will  indicate  1 per  cent,  of  chloride  present. 
In  the  official  test  24.60-24.32  = 0.28  and  0.28-^  0.1289  = 2.17  (practically  2 per 
cent.). 

The  preparation  of  pure  strontium  carbonate  is  attended  with  more  or  less  difficulty, 
and  H.  B.  Dunham  (1893)  proposes  to  use  strontium  hydroxide  instead,  which  latter  can 
either  be  dissolved  in  the  respective  acids  or  can  be  decomposed  by  the  necessary  salts 
of  ammonium.  Strontium  hydroxide  Sr(OH)2,  strictly  pure,  can  be  rapidly  prepared, 
according  to  Dunham,  by  heating  strontium  nitrate  in  a capsule  for  about  twenty  minutes 
over  a direct  fire,  which  converts  it  into  oxide : the  latter  is  mixed  with  more  than  suf- 
ficient water  to  slake  it,  and  after  subsiding  the  clear  liquid  is  poured  off,  and  the  residue 
is  again  treated  with  water  in  the  same  manner : by  this  treatment  all  barium  hydroxide 
is  effectually  removed,  being  soluble  in  20  parts  of  water,  whereas  the  strontium  hydroxide 
requires  60  parts  of  cold  water.  To  free  the  strontium  salt  from  any  calcium  possibly 
present,  it  is  now  dissolved  in  boiling  water  (requiring  2.4  parts),  and  the  solution  then 
set  aside  to  crystallize : the  crystals  occur  in  transparent  square  prisms  with  8 molecules 
of  water. 

Action  and  Uses. — In  1890,  Laborde  demonstrated  the  innocuousness  of  the 
strontium  salts  on  animals  and  on  man,  and  ascribed  to  them  a diuretic  action.  Bantron 
considered  the  action  of  the  nitrate  as  merely  negative,  but  See,  and  afterward  Coronedi, 
found  that  the  bromide  especially  was  a sedative  of  various  gastric  disorders  of  nervous 
origin,  in  which  respect  their  opinion  was  confirmed  by  Fere,  S.  Solis  Cohen,  and  others. 
The  action  of  the  bromide  in  these  cases  is  only  what  analogy  would  render  probable. 
According  to  Dujardin-Beaumetz,  the  lactate  of  strontium  reduces  the  proportion  of 
albumen  in  albuminuria;  and  Malbec  claims  for  it  a sedative  action  on  the  heart  in 
diseases  of  its  valves  and  of  its  muscular  tissue.  In  the  treatment  of  chronic  epilepsy 
Berkley  has  reported  the  superiority  of  strontium  bromide  over  the  other  bromides  to 
consist  in  it  not  producing  a rash  or  a marked  somnolent  effect.  He  prescribed  it  in 
doses  of  Gm.  1.30—2  (gr.  xx-xxx)  (Johns  Hopkins  Hospital  Bulletin , iv.  50).  According 
to  See,  the  daily  dose  of  the  strontium  bromide  should  be  Gm.  8-12  (gr.  cxx-clxxx) ; 
Laborde  states  it  at  Gm.  2-4  (gr.  xxx-lx) ; Malbec  prescribes  the  dose  of  the  lactate  as 
Gm.  2-10  (gr.  xxx-cl)  a day,  and  of  the  iodide  the  same  as  of  the  potassium  salt. 

STRONTII  IODIDUM,  U.  S. — Strontium  Iodide. 

Iodure  de  strontium , Fr. ; Strontiumjodid , G. 

Formula  SrI2.6H20.  Molecular  weight  448.12. 

Preparation. — Like  other  strontium  salts,  the  iodide  is  no  doubt  best  prepared  by 
neutralizing  the  respective  acid  with  strontium  carbonate.  Since  hydriodic  acid  is  rather 
unstable,  a freshly  prepared  solution  of  it  should  be  employed,  the  excess  of  strontium 
carbonate  removed  by  filtration,  and  the  clear  solution  concentrated  by  evaporation, 
when  cold,  strontium  iodide  will  separate  in  crystals. 

As  stated  under  Strontium  Bromide,  the  iodide  may  also  be  obtained  by  neutralizing 
hydriodic  acid  with  strontium  hydroxide  and  evaporating  the  solution  to  the  crystallizing 
point. 

Properties. — Strontium  iodide  occurs  in  colorless,  transparent,  hexagonal  plates, 
odorless  and  having  a bitterish,  saline  taste.  The  salt  is  deliquescent,  and  easily  colored 
yellow  by  exposure  to  the  air  and  light ; hence  it  should  be  kept  in  dark  amber-colored 
glass-stoppered  vials.  “ It  is  soluble  in  0.6  parts  of  water  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  and  in  0.27 
parts  of  boiling  water  ; also  soluble  in  alcohol  and  slightly  in  ether;  the  aqueous  solution 
is  neutral  or  only  very  slightly  acid  to  litmus-paper.  When  cautiously  heated,  the 
crystals  melt  and  gradually  lose  their  water  of  crystallization  (24.05  per  cent.),  becoming 
anhydrous : at  a red  heat  they  are  decomposed,  losing  iodine,  and  leaving  a residue  of 
strontium  oxide.” — U.  S.  To  a non-luminous  flame  the  salt  communicates  an  intensely 
red  color.  If  1 Cc.  of  chlorine-water  be  added  to  5 Cc.  of  an  aqueous  solution  of  the 
salt  after  addition  of  a few  drops  of  gelatinized  starch,  a bluish-black  color  will  appear. 
Toward  calcium  or  potassium  sulphate,  potassium  chromate,  and  sodium  or  ammonium 
carbonate  strontium  iodide  behaves  precisely  like  the  bromide. 

Tests. — Barium  can  be  detected  in  strontium  iodide  by  the  appearance  of  turbidity 
in  an  aqueous  solution  upon  addition  of  potassium  dichromate.  The  aqueous  solution 


STRONTII  L ACT  AS. 


1521 


should  not  be  affected  by  hydrogen  sulphide  either  before  or  after  addition  of  a drop  of 
hydrochloric  acid  (absence  of  arsenic,  lead,  copper,  etc.),  nor  by  ammonium  sulphide 
solution  (absence  of  iron,  aluminum,  etc.).  “If  0.3  Gm.  of  strontium  iodide,  rendered 
anhydrous  by  thorough  drying  before  being  weighed,  be  dissolved  in  10  Cc.  of  water, 
and  3 drops  of  potassium  dichromate  test-solution  be  added,  it  should  require  not  more 
than  18  Cc.  of  decinormal  silver  nitrate  solution  to  produce  a permanent  red  color  (cor- 
responding to  at  least  98  per  cent,  of  pure  salt).” — V.  S.  Since  0.3  Gm.  of  anhydrous 
absolute  strontium  iodide  require  17.62  Cc.  and  0.3  Gm.  of  anhydrous  absolute  strontium 
chloride,  37.21  Cc.  of  decinormal  silver  solution  for  complete  precipitation,  it  follows  that 
each  0.1959  Cc.  of  silver  solution  used  in  excess  of  17.62  Cc.  must  indicate  1 per  cent, 
of  chloride  ; hence  in  the  official  test  18 — 17.62  = 0.38,  and  0.38  -s-  0.1959  = 1.94  (very 
nearly  2 per  cent.). 


STRONTH  LACTAS,  U.  S.— Strontium  Lactate. 

Lactate  de  strontium , Fr. ; Strontium-lactat , Milchsaurer  Strontian. 

Formula  Sr(C3H503)2.3H20.  Molecular  weight  318.76. 

Preparation. — Strontium  lactate  is  made  from  the  carbonate  by  dissolving  it  in 
lactic  acid  somewhat  diluted  with  water  ; if  necessary  heat  is  applied  to  effect  solution. 
After  filtration  the  solution  is  evaporated  with  moderate  heat  to  dryness. 

Like  strontium  bromide  and  iodide,  the  lactate  is  readily  made  from  the  hydroxide 
by  addition  to  lactic  acid  until  a neutral  solution  is  obtained,  and  evaporating  this  to 
dryness. 

Properties. — Strontium  lactate  occurs  as  a white  granular  powder  or  in  crystalline 
nodules,  odorless,  and  of  a slightly  bitter,  saline  taste.  “ The  salt  is  permanent  in  the 
air,  and  soluble  in  4 parts  of  water  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  and  in  less  than  0.5  part  of  boil- 
ing water.  The  solution,  saturated  at  a boiling  heat,  remains  liquid  for  many  hours, 
even  after  being  cooled  to  0°  C.  (32°  F.).  The  salt  is  also  soluble  in  alcohol.  Its  reac- 
tion is  slightly  acid.  When  heated  to  110°  C.  (230°  F.),  it  loses  its  water  (16.9  per 
cent.)  ; at  a higher  temperature  it  first  fuses,  then  is  decomposed,  giving  off  inflammable 
vapors,  and  leaves  a residue  of  strontium  carbonate  and  carbon,  which,  on  addition  of 
hydrochloric  acid,  effervesces,  and  colors  a non-luminous  flame  intensely  red.” — U S. 
The  various  reactions  with  calcium,  potassium,  ammonium,  and  sodium  salts  mentioned 
under  Strontium  Bromide  occur  also  with  an  aqueous  solution  of  the  lactate.  If  to  5 
Cc.  of  a 5 per  cent,  aqueous  solution  of  the  salt  1 Cc.  of  sulphuric  acid  be  added,  and 
then  1 Cc.  of  decinormal  potassium  permanganate  solution,  the  red  color  will  rapidly 
disappear,  while  the  mixture  will  effervesce  and  give  off  the  odor  of  aldehyde. — 

u.  s. 

Tests. — “ If  1 Gm.  of  the  salt  be  dissolved  in  19  Cc.  of  water,  it  should  form  a per- 
fectly clear,  colorless  solution,  leaving  no  insoluble  residue  (absence  of  carbonate,  oxalate, 
etc.).  The  aqueous  solution  should  not  be  affected  by  hydrogen  sulphide  test-solution., 
either  before  or  after  acidulation  with  a drop  of  hydrochloric  acid  (absence  of  arsenic, 
lead,  etc.),  nor  by  ammonium  sulphide  test-solution  (absence  of  iron,  aluminum,  etc.) 
No  turbidity  should  be  produced  in  the  solution  by  potassium  dichromate  test-solution 
(absence  of  barium).  If  0.5  Cc.  of  silver  nitrate  test-solution  be  added  to  5 Cc.  of  the 
aqueous  solution,  not  more  than  a slight  opalescence  should  be  perceptible  (limit  of 
chloride,  etc.).  If  0.5  Gm.  of  the  salt  be  placed  upon  a watch-glass,  and  1 Cc.  of  sul- 
phuric acid  be  carefully  poured  upon  it,  no  effervescence  should  occur  (absence  of  car- 
bonate, oxalate,  etc.)  ; nor  should  any  penetrating  odor  be  perceptible,  even  after  gentle 
heating  (absence  of  butyrate,  propionate,  etc.)  ; nor  should  the  acid  assume,  within  ten 
minutes,  a deeper  color  than  a pale  straw-yellow  (limit  of  readily  carbonizable,  organic 
impurities).  If  1.33  Gm.  of  the  salt,  previously  rendered  anhydrous  by  careful  drying 
at  110°  C.  (240°  F.),  be  ignited  until  most  of  the  carbon  has  disappeared,  and  then  dis- 
solved in  10  Cc.  of  water,  it  should  require,  for  complete  neutralization,  not  less  than  9.9 
Cc.  of  normal  sulphuric  acid  (corresponding  to  at  least  98.6  per  cent,  of  the  pure  salt), 

1 methyl-orange  being  used  as  indicator.” — U.  S. 

Each  gramme  of  anhydrous  strontium  lactate  upon  ignition  yields  0.555  Gm.  of  stron- 
tium carbonate,  and  as  each  Cc.  of  normal  sulphuric  acid  requires,  according  to  the 
equation  SrC03 -f-  H2SO*  SrS04  + C02  + H20,  0.073525  Gm.  of  the  carbonate  for 
neutralization,  it  will  correspond  to  0.13244  of  anhydrous  strontium  lactate;  0.13244  X 
9.9  = 1.311  + , which  is  98.6  per  cent,  of  1.33. 

96 


1522 


STROPHANTHUS. 


Fig.  296. 


STROPHANTHUS,  U.  S.,  Br.  Add,— Strophanthus. 

Semen  strophanthi , P.  G. — Strophanthus-seed , E.  ; Sentence  de  strophanthe , Fr. ; 
phanthussamen , G. 

The  seed  of  Strophanthus  hispidus,  De  Candolle  (var.  Kombe,  Oliver , Br.,  P.  G.), 
deprived  of  its  long  awn. 
iVa£.  Oni — Apocynaceae. 

Origin. — Tile  genus  is  principally  found  in  tropical  Africa,  where  the  plants  are  used 
to  prepare  an  arrow-poison  known  as  me  and  kombe.  The  genus  is  characterized  by 
possessing  long  capsules  enclosing  about  two  hundred  seeds,  each  furnished  with  a long 
awn,  which  is  terminated  by  a brush  of  long  fine  silky  hairs.  The  capsule  or  follicle  of 
the  species  under  consideration  is  from  20  to  30  Cm.  (8—12  inches)  long,  is  linear-oblong, 
and  pointed.  The  seeds  are  imported  either  in  the  follicles  or  loose,  and  then  often  freed 
from  the  awns,  which  are  very  brittle. 

Description. — Strophanthus-seeds  are  about  15  Mm.  (J-  inch)  long  and  4 to  5 Mm. 
(l  to  ^ inch)  broad  : at  the  apex  they  are  narrowed  into  the  long  and  brittle  awn,  and  at  the 

base  are  rather  blunt.  The  awn  is  from 
7 to  10  Cm.  (3  to  4 inches)  long,  bare  on 
the  lower  part,  and  above  is  beset  on  all 
sides  with  delicate  white  silky  hairs,  which 
are  about  5 Cm.  (2  inches)  long.  The 
seed  is  oblong-lanceolate  in  outline,  gray- 
ish-brown externally,  and  covered  with 
appressed  silky  hairs.  The  seed  is  flat- 
tened and  obtusely  two-edged ; on  the 
one  side  is  a longitudinal  ridge  which  is 
prolonged  into  the  awn.  The  kernel  is 
white  and  oily,  and  consists  of  a straight 
embryo  having  two  thin  cotyledons  sur- 
rounded by  a thin  albumen  (perisperm). 
Strophanthus  is  nearly  inodorous  and  has 
a very  bitter  taste.  “A  decoction  prepared 
with  1 part  of  the  seed  and  10  parts  of 
water  has  a brownish  color,  and  is  not 
changed  in  appearance  on  the  addition  of 
solution  of  iodine,  ferric  chloride,  or  potas- 
sium mercuric  iodide.” — U.  S .,  P.  G. 

Constituents. — Strophanthus  c on- 
tains  a glucoside,  strophanthin,  which  was 
isolated  by  Hardy  and  Gallois  (1877).  It 
was  extracted  by  treating  the  seeds,  freed 
from  the  hairs,  with  alcohol  slightly  acidu- 
lated with  hydrochloric  acid,  the  tincture 
evaporated  to  a soft  extract,  and  treated 
with  cold  water.  This  solution  left  on 
spontaneous  evaporation  strophanthin  in 
shining  white  crystals.  Fraser  has  since 
pointed  out  that  the  crystals  obtained  by 
Hardy  and  Gallois  are  probably  a decom- 
position-product of  strophanthin, and  which 
he  named  strophanthidin.  As  the  prin- 
ciple itself  is  a glucoside  readily  decom- 
posed by  acids,  so  Fraser  (1887)  proposed 
the  extraction  without  the  intervention  of 
any  acid,  using  only  dilute  alcohol  for 
ether,  dissolving  in  water,  and  treating  the 
precipitate  obtained  by  tannin  with  lead  oxide,  extracting  this  with  alcohol,  dissolving 
this  in  a small  quantity  of  alcohol,  precipitating  with  ether,  and  then  passing  carbon 
dioxide  into  the  weak  alcoholic  solution  to  free  it  from  lead.  After  filtration  the  solution 
is  evaporated  at  a low  temperature  and  dried  over  sulphuric  acid.  As  thus  obtained, 
strophanthin  is  imperfectly  crystalline,  neutral  to  test-paper,  very  bitter,  freely  soluble 


Strophanthus. 


STR  OPHA  NTHUS. 


1523 


in  water,  less  so  in  alcohol,  and  is  insoluble  in  ether  and  chloroform.  Besides  the  glu- 
coside,  strophanthus  contains  also  kombic  acid. 

A characteristic  reaction  for  strophanthin  is  proposed  by  Helbing  in  the  following : 
When  to  a few  drops  of  an  aqueous  strophanthin  solution  a trace  of  ferric  chloride  is 
added,  and  then  some  sulphuric  acid,  a red-brown  precipitate  appears,  which  gradually, 
within  one  or  two  hours,  becomes  emerald-  or  dark-green,  this  color  remaining  for  a long 
time. 

False  Strophanthus-seeds. — The  seed  of  Str.  dichotomus,  De  Candolle , is  brown 
or  chestnut-brown  in  color,  and  less  densely  covered  with  hairs ; it  otherwise  resembles 
the  above. 

Ivicksia  africana,  Bentham , yields  seeds  which  are  dark-brown,  slightly  bitter,  and 
possess  neither  the  bearded  awn  nor  the  appressed  hairs  as  found  in  strophanthus-seeds. 

Physiological  Action. — In  1865,  Pelikan  described  a new  heart-poison,  which 
primarily  arrested  that  organ.  In  the  same  year  Hilton-Fagge  and  Stevenson  ascribed 
to  it  similar  qualities.  But  the  earliest  thorough  study  of  strophanthus,  under  the  name 
of  inee , was  made  in  1872  by  Polaillon  and  Carville  ( Archives  de  Physiol .,  iv.  523). 
They  showed  that  it  produced  tonic  contraction  of  the  heart,  ending  in  arrest  of  the 
organ,  involving  death  by  syncope,  and  usually  accompanied  by  nausea  and  vomiting. 
“Inee,”  they  said,  “is  essentially  a muscular  poison,  destroying  the  contractility  both  of 
smooth  and  striated  muscles ; but  it  does  not  appear  to  act  upon  the  peripheral  blood- 
vessels nor  npon  the  nervous  system.”  Meanwhile,  in  1870,  Fraser  had  described  it  as 
an  arrow-poison,  but  in  1885  ( British  Med.  Jour.,  Nov.  1885,  p.  904)  he  defined  its 
action  in  the  terms  previously  used  by  the  French  authors,  adding  that  its  control  of  the 
heart  was  more  powerful  and  certain  than  that  of  digitalis.  Thus  a solution  of  strophan- 
thin 1 : 6,000,000  more  readily  arrested  the  separated  frog’s  heart  than  a solution  of 
digitalin  1 : 100,000  ; but  a solution  of  digitalin  1 : 20,000  passed  through  the  blood- 
vessels of  a frog  whose  central  nervous  system  had  been  destroyed,  contracted  them 
strongly,  while  a solution  of  strophanthin  1 : 3000,  or  even  1 : 2000,  produced  a slight 
and  temporary  effect  only.  He  agreed  with  other  observers  that  it  does  not  contract  the 
arteries,  although  it  increases  the  blood-pressure.  He  did  not  find  that  it  lowered  the 
pulse-rate  in  health,  nor  that  it  became  diuretic  or  antipyretic  except  under  certain  con- 
ditions of  the  heart  and  temperature.  Among  later  authorities  also,  Eichhorst  says  that 
only  “ under  certain  conditions  ” does  it  become  diuretic,  and  that  even  then  its  action 
is  very  slight  ( Centralhl . f d.  g.  Therap.,  vi.  150)  ; yet  he  observed  copious  diuresis 
follow  its  use  in  ascites.  Bosenbusch  regarded  its  diuretic  power  as  distinct  though 
slight  (Med.  News , Hi.  238),  and  as  developed  only  when  the  heart  is  obstructed  (Bull, 
de  Therap.,  cxv.  281).  On  the  other  hand,  Dujardin-Beaumetz  pronounced  it  a powerful 
diuretic,  provided  that  the  kidneys  are  sound,  and  especially  when  it  regulates  imperfect 
compensation  in  the  heart.  Csatary  maintained  that  in  a healthy  condition  the  medicine 
is  not  diuretic,  and  that  the  condition  of  the  kidneys  does  not  modify  this  action,  which 
he  held  is  due  to  the  increased  pressure  of  the  blood  consequent  upon  the  toxic  influence 
of  the  medicine  on  the  heart  (Centralhl.  f.  d.  g.  Ther.,  v.  701).  In  singular  contrast  to 
these  judgments  is  that  of  Lemoine  (Annuaire  de  Therap.,  1883,  p.  243),  who  affirms 
that  polyuria  is  the  most  constant  of  all  the  effects  of  strophanthus  even  in  healthy 
persons,  and  that  it  continues  even  for  a long  time  after  the  medicine  is  suspended.  He 
notes,  however,  that  strophanthin  is  not  diuretic,  the  two  differing  like  digitalis  and 
digitalin.  Again,  Mairet  and  others  declare  that  the  medicine  produces  diuresis  only  by 
a direct  action  on  the  kidneys  (Med.  News,  liii.  419).  The  divergencies  and  oppositions  of 
opinion  here  stated  have  not  been  altogether  reconciled  by  later  observation.  But  the  con- 
clusions that  seem  to  be  established  are — that  strophanthus  invigorates  the  heart-muscle 
while  dilating  its  cavities  and  the  arteries,  and  yet  raising  the  pressure  within  them, 
leaving  the  pressure  in  the  veins  unchanged ; that  it  reduces  the  force  and  the  frequency 
of  the  heart-beat,  and  regulates  its  rhythm  when  irregular;  that  it  is  diuretic  (although 
this  point  is  not  admitted  by  all)  ; that  its  effects  are  not  cumulative ; and  that  occasion- 
ally it  excites  nausea,  vomiting,  and  diarrhoea  (Lee  and  Gley,  Amer.  Jour.  Med.  Sci., 
xcvii.  176;  Haas,  ibid.,  p.  823;  Lemoine,  ibid.,  p.  391  ; Egasse,  Bull.  de.  Therap.,  cxvi. 
83  ; Popper,  Centralhl.  /.  Therap.,  vii.  410;  Blumenau,  ibid.,  343;  Kugler,  Bull,  et 
Memo ires  Soc.  Therap.,  i.889,  p.  224). 

The  influence  of  strophanthus  on  the  pulse  appears  to  have  been  less  carefully  studied 
than  its  other  effects,  especially  if  we  are  to  accept  the  report  of  Drasche,  which  is 
opposed  to  the  original  statement  of  Fraser.  According  to  Drasche  (Centralhl.  f.  d.  g. 
Med.,  vi.  347),  5 drops  of  the  tincture  reduces  the  pulse  of  a healthy  man  by  eight  to 


1524 


STROPHANTHTJS. 


twelve  beats  a minute;  and  10  drops  would  in  half  an  hour  reduce  it  by  twelve  to 
twenty  beats.  In  one  case  after  a dose  of  20  drops  it  fell  from  84  to  54,  while  the 
temperature  declined  1°  C.  In  a case  of  pneumonia  the  reduction  is  said  to  have  been 
even  greater.  Strophanthin  is  a local  anaesthetic,  but  its  irritant  action  renders  this 
quality  of  little  avail. 

The  poisonous  action  of  the  drug  is  sometimes  developed.  Haas  ( Centralbl . f.  d.  g. 
Ther .,  vi.  16)  met  with  three  cases  of  cardiac  and  valvular  obstruction  treated  by  its 
means,  in  which  the  patient  became  cyanotic  and  suffered  from  dyspnoea  and  great  cardiac 
distress,  followed  by  collapse.  It  is  to  be  remarked  that  nothing  is  here  said  of  pulse- 
reduction,  of  pallor,  or  of  vomiting,  symptoms  which  attend  digitalis-poisoning.  Eich- 
horst,  on  the  other  hand,  speaks  of  a woman  with  mitral  insufficiency  and  congestive 
symptoms  who  drank  Gm.  10  (f^ijss)  of  tincture  of  strophanthus  without  injury  ( Cen- 
tralbl'.  f.  d.  g.  Tlier.,  vi.  150).  The  case  is  related  by  Hr.  H.  Y.  Evans  of  a child  five 
years  old  who  was  said  to  have  taken  20  drops  of  a tincture  of  S.  hispidus.  The  face 
was  flushed,  the  skin  hot  and  dry,  the  pupils  dilating  and  contracting  alternately  every 
few  seconds,  the  pulse  140  and  full,  the  heart  acting  vigorously  with  a slight  murmur, 
the  mind  clear,  but  the  patient  loquacious.  Recovery  followed  the  use  of  emetics,  but 
no  urine  was  passed  for  ten  hours  ( Med . News , lii.  674).  These  symptoms,  it  will  be 
seen,  were  quite  unlike  those  attributed  to  strophanthus. 

Uses. — Fraser  proved,  clinically,  that  strophanthus  and  strophanthin  gave  tone  to  the 
heart  rendered  weak  and  irregular  by  degenerative  or  by  obstructive  lesions.  He  held 
them  to  be  more  powerful  than  digitalis  and  digitalin  in  such  cases,  and  that  the  most 
satisfactory  results  were  obtained  in  mitral  disease  without  muscular  degeneration  of 
the  heart.  He  did  not  find  strophanthus  haemostatic,  as  digitalis  is,  by  constricting  the 
arteries,  or  that  it  was  ever  explosive  in  its  action,  or  that  it  was  as  apt  to  occasion  intes- 
tinal disorder.  In  the  main,  these  conclusions  have  been  confirmed  by  later  observation 
(S.  C.  Chew,  Med.  Record , xxxi.  516  ; Hutchinson,  Brit.  Med.  Jour.,  May  7,  1887  ; Pino, 
Med.  News , li.  189  ; Makenna,  Brit.  Med.  Jour.,  Sept.  3,  1887  ; Mays,  Med.  News , li.  472). 
Zerner  and  Low  more  specifically  state  that  the  efficiency  of  the  medicine  will  depend 
upon  the  proportion  of  sound  tissue  remaining  in  the  heart,  but  that  in  valvular  disease 
without  impairment  of  the  heart-muscle  it,  no  more  than  digitalis,  affords  the  same  degree 
of  relief  as  when  the  heart  is  positively  or  relatively  weak  ( Centralb . f.  d.  g.  Ther,,  v. 
618).  It  was  observed  by  Haas  that  fever  interfered  with  the  action  of  strophanthin. 
He  also  alleged  that  it  restricted  the  range  and  lessened  the  force  of  the  apex  impulse, 
but  did  not  diminish  the  intensity  of  the  normal  sounds  or  of  the  murmurs  ( Central h.  f. 
d.  g.  Ther.,  vi.  14). 

In  comparison  with  digitalis,  strophanthus  cannot  be  said  to  have  inspired  the  same 
confidence  as  a regulator  of  the  disordered  heart.  For,  while  Csatary  points  out  the 
uncertainty  of  digitalis  and  its  preparations  (ibid.,  vi.  701),  and  Haas  maintains  the 
superiority  of  strophanthus  because  its  action  is  quicker  and  surer  and  does  not  derange 
the  digestion  or  appetite,  and  Quinlan  adopts  a similar  view  {Brit.  Med.  Jour.,  Aug.  27, 
1887),  the  greater  number  award  the  superiority  to  digitalis.  Hochhaus  states  that  the 
latter  has  frequently  to  be  used  to  reinforce  the  former,  and  that  the  indications  for  its 
use  are  more  definite  (Cent.  f.  d.  g.  Ther.,  v.  699);  Eichhorst  maintains  that  although 
the  two  agents  act  upon  the  heart  alike  (?),  yet  digitalis  acts  more  promptly  and  surely, 
while  strophanthus  has  the  advantage  of  not  exerting  a cumulative  action  (ibid.,  vi.  150)  ; 
Suckling  declares  the  inferiority  of  strophanthus  (Brit.  Med.  Jour.,  Nov.  19,  1887),  in 
which  judgment  Graetz  concurs,  but  adds  that  its  chief  value  consists  in  its  power  of 
dissipating  paroxysms  of  cardiac  disorder  (Centralb.  f.  d.g.  Ther.,  vi.  217)  ; and  Frankel 
regards  it  as  rather  an  adjuvant  to  digitalis  than  as  a substitute  for  it  (ibid.,  p.  272)  ; that 
it  is  more  effective  in  functional  than  in  organic  heart  diseases  (in  which  opinion  several 
reporters  concur)  ; and,  contrary  to  general  testimony,  that  even  when  it  acts  favorably 
it  does  not  show  its  influence  within  twenty-four  hours.  Some  of  these  dissidences  of 
opinion  may  be  reconciled  by  noting  that  when  strophanthus  relieves  cardiac  disorder 
which  digitalis  has  not  palliated,  but  perhaps  aggravated  (Domme,  Therap.  Monatsh.,  iii. 
82 ; Hare,  University  Med.  Mag.,  i.  342),  the  explanation  is  that  the  one  increases  the 
capacity  of  the  heart,  while  the  other  diminishes  it.  It  has  been  suggested  that  digitalis 
is  most  efficient  in  reducing  the  frequency  and  increasing  the  tension  of  the  pulse,  and 
that  strophanthus  is  indicated  when  digitalis  fails  in  its  sedative  as  well  as  its  diuretic 
action,  and  that  in  some  cases  the  two  may  be  profitably  associated.  Briefly,  the  indica- 
tions,for  the  use  of  strophanthus  in  heart  disease  are  irregularity  and  insufficiency  of  the 
action  of  the  heart  and  their  consequences — viz.  tissue-degeneration,  valvular  obstruc- 


STBYCHNTNA. 


1525 


tion,  and  cardiac  distress,  varying  from  oppression  to  angina  pectoris . (Compare  Dujar- 
din-Beaumetz,  Bull,  de  Therap ..  cxvi.  88  ; Bucquoy,  Archives  gen.,  Feb.  1889,  p.  244 ; 
Haas,  Cent.  f.  Ther.,  vii.  219  ; See,  Bull,  de  Therap.,  cxvi.  90  ; Devine,  Boston  Med.  and 
Surg.  Jour..  Nov.  1888,  p.  479  ; Dale,  Med.  News,  liii.  716  ; Pope,  Lancet,  Apr.  1889, 
P.  739.) 

It  seems  probable  tliat  the  power  of  this  drug  to  concentrate  the  heart’s  energy  with- 
out constringing  the  arteries  renders  it  peculiarly  efficient  in  cardiac  dropsy,  enabling  it 
to  overcome  the  stagnations  and  congestions  accompanying  the  latter,  and  especially  those 
of  the  kidneys  and  lungs  (V.  I.  Bowditch,  Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  Mar.  1887,  p. 
253),  and  at  the  same  time,  by  its  diuretic  action,  the  various  effusions  due  to  vascular 
engorgement.  Haas  (Cent.  f.  d.  g.  Therap .,  vi.  14)  and  Langaard  ( Practitioner , xl.  59) 
think  it  should  supersede  digitalis  in  the  treatment  of  cardiac  dropsy,  and  Poulet  (Bull, 
de  Therap.,  cxiii.  529)  in  that  of  renal  or  scarlatinous  dropsy.  Hutchinson  attributes  to 
the  diuretic  action  of  the  medicine  the  relief  obtained  in  a case  of  renal  calculi  (Provin- 
cial Med.  Jour.,  Oct.  1,  1887).  It  is  hardly  necessary  to  catalogue  several  other  diseases 
in  which  strophanthus  has  been  said  to  be  useful ; the  list,  however,  includes  typhoid  and 
other  fevers,  nervous  asthma,  pneumonia,  phthisis,  peripheral  paralysis,  etc.  Its  alleged 
utility  in  nervous  asthma  is  less  open  to  doubt.  Like  erythrophleine  and  helleborine, 
strophanthin  has  a local  anaesthetic  action,  but  is  too  irritating  for  practical  use  (Stein- 
bach  ; Hare  and  De  Schweinitz,  Therap.  Gaz.,  xiii.  821).  Biffat  claims  that  the  tincture 
cures  urticaria  (Practitioner,  xliii.  380),  and  Brower  reports  having  cured  exophthalmic 
goitre  by  doses  of  2 drops  every  six  hours,  gradually  increased  to  10  drops  (Jour.  Amer. 
Med.  Assoc.,  xi.  628)  ; and  Ferguson  claims  to  have  palliated  the  symptoms  by  the  same 
means  (Med.  News,  1 vii.  633  ; Jour.  Amer.  Med.  Assoc.,  xxi.  187). 

Tincture  of  strophanthus  (1 : 20)  may  be  given  to  children  in  doses  of  1 drop  three 
times  a day ; to  adults,  Gm.  0.25-0.50  (^4—8)  two  or  three  times  a day,  largely  diluted 
with  water  and  an  aromatic  syrup,  and  reduced  if  nausea  or  vomiting  occur.  The  extract 
has  been  used  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.001  (gr.  -J%).  Strophanthin  cannot  well  be  adminis- 
tered hypodermically,  owing  to  the  irritation  it  produces.  It  has  been  given  internally 
as  follows:  Strophanthin  Gm.  0.002-0.004  (-gL—1^-)  ; distilled  water  Gm.  180  (fgvj)  ; 
simple  syrup  Gm.  30  (f§j),  for  a day’s  use,  in  three  or  four  doses.  But  the  tincture  and 
the  extract  are  both  preferable  for  convenience  as  well  as  safety. 

Under  the  name  of  ouaba'ine , Varigny  and  Langlois  have  described  the  action  of  an 
African  arrow-poison  whose  effects  closely  resemble  those  of  strophanthus  in  that  it  occa- 
sions a persistent  contraction  of  the  heart-ventricles,  besides  causing  a gradual  suspension 
of  respiration  (Annuaire  de  Therap.,  1888,  pp.  305,  306,  308).  Indeed,  it  is  regarded 
as  identical  with  strophanthin  (Egasse,  Bull,  de  Ther.,  cxvi.  76),  in  spite  of  the  effects 
of  it  just  mentioned.  It  has  been  alleged  to  reduce  the  number  and  severity  of  the 
paroxysms  of  whooping  cough  when  given  to  a child  five  years  old  in  doses  of  Gm. 
0.00006  (j-oVff  gra-in)  every  three  hours  (Med.  News,  lvi.  562).  Others  have  given  it  in 
doses  of  Gm.  0.0003  (^g-  grain). 

STRYCHNINA,  U.  S.,  Br.,  JP.  Cod.— Strychnine. 

Strychnia,  Br.  ; Strychninum. — Strychnine,  Fr. ; Strychnin,  G. 

Formula  C21H22N202.  Molecular  weight  333.31. 

An  alkaloid  obtained  from  Nux  vomica,  and  also  obtainable  from  other  plants  of  the 
nat.  ord.  Loganiaceae. — TJ.  S. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Nux  Vomica  1 pound  ; Lead  Acetate  180  grains  ; Ammonia- 
water,  Rectified  Spirit,  Distilled  Water  a sufficiency.  Subject  the  nux  vomica  for  two 
hours  to  steam  in  any  convenient  vessel ; chop  or  slice  it ; dry  it  in  a water-bath  or  hot- 
air chamber,  and  immediately  grind  it  in  a coffee-mill.  Digest  the  powder  at  a gentle 
heat  for  twelve  hours  with  2 pints  of  the  spirit  and  1 of  the  water;  strain  through  linen, 
express  strongly,  and  repeat  the  process  twice.  Distil  off  the  spirit  from  the  mixed  fluid, 
evaporate  the  watery  residue  to  about  16  ounces,  and  filter  when  cold.  Add  now  the 
lead  acetate,  previously  dissolved  in  distilled  water,  so  long  as  it  occasions  any  precipitate  ; 
filter;  wash  the  precipitate  with  10  ounces  of  cold  water,  adding  the  washings  to  the 
filtrate ; evaporate  the  clear  fluid  to  8 ounces,  and  when  it  has  cooled  add  the  ammonia 
in  slight  excess,  stirring  thoroughly.  Let  the  mixture  stand  at  the  ordinary  temperature 
for  twelve  hours ; collect  the  precipitate  on  a filter,  wash  it  once  with  a few  ounces  of 
cold  distilled  water,  dry  it  in  a water-bath  or  hot-air  chamber,  and  boil  it  with  successive 
portions  of  rectified  spirit  till  the  fluid  scarcely  tastes  bitter.  Distil  off  most  of  the  spirit, 


1526 


STRYCHNIN  A. 


evaporate  the  residue  to  the  bulk  of  about  J ounce,  and  set  aside  to  cool.  Cautiously 
pour  off  the  yellowish  mother-liquor  (which  contains  the  brucia  of  the  seeds)  from  the 
white  crust  of  strychnia  which  adheres  to  the  vessel.  Throw  the  crust  on  a paper  filter, 
wash  it  with  a mixture  of  2 parts  of  rectified  spirit  and  1 of  water  till  the  washings  cease 
to  become  red  on  the  addition  of  nitric  acid ; finally,  dissolve  it  by  boiling  it  with  an 
ounce  of  rectified  spirit,  and  set  it  aside  to  crystallize.  More  crystals  may  be  obtained 
by  evaporating  the  mother-liquor. — Br. 

This  process  is  a modification  of  the  one  proposed  by  Wittstein.  The  tincture,  prepared 
with  about  55  per  cent,  alcohol,  is  concentrated,  and  the  resinous  and  other  insoluble 
matter  separated  by  filtration.  Lead  acetate  precipitates  from  the  filtrate  igasuric 
acid  and  coloring  matter,  and  leaves  the  alkaloids  in  solution  as  acetates.  These  ar.e 
decomposed  by  ammonia,  and  the  precipitated  alkaloids  treated  with  hot  alcohol,  from  the 
concentrated  solution  of  which  strychnine  crystallizes,  and  is  entirely  purified  from  brucine 
and  coloring  matter  by  washing  with  alcohol  of  about  55  per  cent,  and  by  recrystalli- 
zation from  strong  alcohol. 

O.  Henry  (1830)  recommended  the  exhaustion  of  nux  vomica  by  means  of  alcohol 
acidulated  with  sulphuric  acid  and  the  liberation  of  the  alkaloids  by  lime.  Duflos  recom- 
mended a similar  process,  using  acidulated  water  for  exhausting  the  drug  ; and  this  is 
frequently  followed  when  working  on  the  large  scale,  and  was  adopted  b}r  the  U.  S.  P. 
1870.  Powdered  nux  vomica,  or  the  drug  softened  by  steam  and  while  hot  crushed 
between  rollers,  is  exhausted  by  boiling  with  very  dilute  hydrochloric  or  sulphuric  acid ; 
the  decoction  contains  the  alkaloids  as  hydrochlorates  or  sulphates,  together  with  the 
liberated  igasuric  acid,  mucilaginous  compounds,  coloring  matter,  and  other  principles. 
On  the  addition  of  slaked  lime  the  salts  of  the  alkaloids  are  decomposed,  calcium  chlo- 
ride or  sulphate  is  formed,  and  strychnine  and  brucine  are  precipitated,  together  with 
the  excess  of  lime  employed,  and  with  calcium  sulphate.  On  washing  this  precipitate 
with  water,  the  foreign  principles  are  mostly  removed,  and  by  treatment  with  cold  diluted 
alcohol  the  brucine  is  dissolved.  The  residue  now  consists  essentially  of  lime  and  strych- 
nine, the  latter  of  which  is  taken  up  by  boiling  alcohol,  and  further  purified  by  convert- 
ing it  into  sulphate  soluble  in  water,  decolorizing  with  animal  charcoal,  and  precipitating 
with  an  alkali;  or,  the  washed  and  dried  precipitate  by  lime  is  at  once  exhausted  with 
boiling  alcohol,  and  the  mixed  strychnine  and  brucine  are  purified  by  treatment  with  sul- 
phuric acid,  animal  charcoal,  and  ammonia,  and  separated  by  dissolving  in  hot  alcohol, 
when,  on  cooling,  strychnine  will  crystallize  and  brucine  remain  in  the  mother-liquor. 

Various  other  processes  have  been  proposed,  differing  mainly  in  the  manner  in  which 
the  alkaloids  are  liberated  and  afterward  separated  from  each  other.  Magnesia  or  sodium 
carbonate  may  be  substituted  for  the  lime  and  ammonia  in  the  above  processes ; and 
benzene  was  suggested  by  Boiraux  and  Leger  (1875)  for  dissolving  strychnine  from  the 
mixed  alkaloids,  brucine,  it  is  stated,  being  completely  insoluble  in  that  menstruum. 

Properties. — Strychnine  is  seen  in  commerce  as  a white  crystalline  powder  or  crys- 
tallized in  colorless,  short,  quadrangular  prisms  or  octahedrons  of  the  rhombic  system. 
It  is  permanent  in  the  air,  inodorous,  has  a very  persistent  bitter  taste,  which  is  still  per- 
ceptible if  strychnine  is  dissolved  in  700,000  parts  of  liquid.  The  alkaloid  has  an 
alkaline  reaction,  melts  below  268°  C.  (514°  F.),  is  sublimable  only  when  very  minute 
quantities  are  carefully  heated  (Hellwig,  1864),  and  is  decomposed  at  a higher  heat. 
Pelletier  and  Caventou,  who  discovered  this  alkaloid  in  1818,  found  it  soluble  in  about 
6700  parts  of  cold  and  2500  parts  of  boiling  water,  and  to  be  insoluble  in  absolute  ether. 
It  dissolves  in  110  parts  of  cold  and  12  parts  of  boiling  alcohol  (£7.  $.)  ; in  107  parts  of 
95  per  cent,  alcohol,  180  parts  of  amylic  alcohol,  165  partsof  benzene,  and  in  1250  parts  of 
commercial  ether  (Dragendorff)  ; \n  about  5 parts  of  chloroform  (Pettenkofer),  in  300 
parts  of  glycerin  (Cass  and  G-arot)  ; and  is  also  soluble  to  some  extent  in  volatile  and 
fixed  oils  and  in  creosote.  Its  solubility  in  water  is  not  increased  by  ammonia  or  caustic 
potassa,  but  dilute  acids  render  it  much  more  soluble,  with  the  formation  of  neutral  salts, 
which  are  mostly  crystallizable  and  are  precipitated  by  alkalies,  alkali  carbonates,  chro- 
mates, and,  after  some  time,  by  soluble  bicarbonates.  Lextrait  (1881)  obtained  long 
needles  of  a compound  consisting  of  3 molecules  of  strychnine  and  1 of  iodoform  ; it 
becomes  yellow  at  90°  C.  (194°  F.),  is  very  sparingly  soluble  in  alcohol,  and  dissolves 
freely  in  ether  and  chloroform,  decomposing  when  kept  in  solution. 

Strychnine  and  its  salts  dissolve  in  concentrated  sulphuric  acid  without  color,  but  on 
the  addition  of  a little  peroxide  of  lead  a beautiful  blue  color  is  produced,  passing  into 
violet,  red,  and  finally  into  yellow  (Marchand).  If  a small  crystal  of  potassium  dichro- 
mate is  used  instead  of  the  lead  oxide,  a deep  violet  color  is  produced,  or  a blue  color  if 


STRYCHNINE  SULPHAS. 


152? 


strychnine  is  in  excess  (Otto).  A similar  color  is  obtained  with  sulphuric  acid  and  potas- 
sium ferricyanide  (Davy)  ; it  passes  like  the  preceding,  though  more  slowly,  through 
red  into  yellow,  and  finally  fades.  The  solution  of  strychnine  in  sulphuric  acid  con- 
taining some  nitric  acid  yields  on  the  addition  of  manganese  dioxide  a purplish- 
violet  color  (Mack,  Erdmann),  and  a similar  color,  but  rapidly  fading  to  yellow,  is  pro- 
duced with  chloric,  chlorous,  and  iodic  acids  and  their  salts,  with  manganic  sulphate  and 
potassium  permanganate  (Lefort).  If  much  contaminated  with  organic  matter,  the  alka- 
loid is  best  purified  by  dissolving  it  in  a dilute  acid,  so  as  to  free  it  from  fatty  and  resin 
ous  matters,  liberating  it  by  ammonia,  and  dissolving  it  by  agitation  with  chloroform  ; 
if  necessary,  the  process  is  repeated,  and  the  residue  from  the  evaporation  of  chloroform 
is  tested  as  above.  If  the  above  tests  are  carefully  applied,  a very  minute  quantity  may 
be  detected,  according  to  Wenzell  (1870),  in  a solution  containing  the  part  of 

strychnine. 

On  dissolving  0.02  Gm.  of  strychnine  in  2 Cc.  of  nitric  acid  (sp.gr.  1.300)  in  a small 
test-tube,  the  acid  should  not  turn  more  than  faintly  yellow  (limit  of  brucine.)” — U.  S. 

The  composition  of  strychnine  is  expressed  by  the  formula  C21H22N2Q2  (Eegnault)  ; 
according  to  Schiitzenberger  (1858),  it  sometimes  contains  22  or  20  C. ; Claus  (1881) 
observed  a strychnine  with  22  C. 

Tests. — The  freedom  from  inorganic  matters  is  readily  proven  by  the  absence  of  ash 
on  incinerating  a portion.  Concentrated  nitric  acid  should  not  produce  a red  color,  or  only 
a very  faint  one,  showing  the  absence  of  more  than  traces  of  brucine. 

STRYCHNINE  SULPHAS,  U.  S.— Strychnine  Sulphate. 

Strychninum  sulfuricum. — Sulfate  de  strychnine , Fr.  ; Schwefel satires  Strychnin , G. 

Formula  (C21H22N202)2H2S045H20.  Molecular  weight  854.24. 

Strychnine  sulphate  should  be  kept  in  well-stoppered  vials. 

Preparation. — In  preparing  this  salt  it  is  best  to  use  the  strychnine  in  the  form 
of  powder,  and  add  it  in  slight  excess  to  warm  dilute  sulphuric  acid  ; the  filtrate  from 
the  undissolved  strychnine  will  yield  the  salt  on  being  evaporated  spontaneously  to  dry- 
ness ; on  the  cooling  of  the  hot  saturated  solution  a salt  with  5H20  crystallizes  in  long 
thin  prisms. 

Properties. — Strychnine  sulphate  crystallizes  in  colorless  or  white  prismatic  crys- 
tals containing  10.51  per  cent,  of  water  of  crystallization.  The  salt  has  a neutral  reac- 
tion, is  inodorous,  and  has  the  intensely  bitter  taste  and  the  color  reactions  of  strychnine 
salts.  On  exposure  it  becomes  superficially  opaque  through  efflorescence.  According 
to  the  U.  S.  P.,  it  is  soluble  in  50  parts  of  water  and  in  100  parts  of  alcohol  at  15°  C. 
(59°  F.),  in  2 parts  of  boiling  water,  and  in  8.5  parts  of  boiling  alcohol ; also  soluble  in 
26  parts  of  glycerin,  but  insoluble  in  ether.  Lextrait  (1882)  recommends  the  salt  with 
5H,0,  which  is  uniformly  obtained  by  crystallizing  from  alcohol  of  more  than  50  per 
cent,  strength.  The  Pharmacopoeia  has  made  the  salt  with  5 molecules  of  water  of 
crystallization  official,  in  place  of  the  one  with  6 molecules  of  the  revision  of  1880. 
When  this  is  heated  to  100°  C.  (212°  F.),  it  slowly  loses  its  water  of  crystallization 
(10.51  per  cent.);  more  rapidly  when  heated  at  110°  C.  (230°  F.)  and  when  quickly 
heated  to  200°  C.  (392°  F.),  the  salt  fuses.  The  aqueous  solution  of  the  salt  gives  with 
barium  chloride  a white  precipitate  of  barium  sulphate,  and  with  potassa  or  ammonia  a 
white  precipitate  of  strychnine  which  shows  the  reactions  described  above.  When  heated 
to  redness  the  salt  should  leave  no  residue. 

From  the  observations  of  Rammelsberg  and  of  Lextrait  it  appears  that  in  Europe  the 
normal  and  acid  sulphates  are  used  indiscriminately  ; the  former  (pharmacopoeial)  salt 
contains  75.43  per  cent,  of  strychnine,  while  the  latter  contains  71.36  per  cent.,  its  for- 
mula being  C21H22N202H2S04.2H20,  and  it  becomes  anhydrous  at  150°  C.  (302°  F.). 

Test. — “On  dissolving  0.05  Gm.  of  strychnine  sulphate  in  2 Cc.  of  nitric  acid  (specific 
gravity  1.300),  in  a small  test-tube,  the  acid  should  not  turn  more  than  faintly  yellow 
(limit  of  brucine).” — U.  S. 

Other  Salts  of  Strychnine. — Strychnine  acetas.  The  neutral  salt  crystallizes  with  difficulty, 
and  on  evaporating  its  solution  loses  a portion  of  the  acid  ; it  dissolves  in  96  parts  of  water  and 
in  15.1  parts  of  chloroform. 

Strychnine  hydriodas,  C21H22N202.TII  : molecular  weight  460.84.  It  is  sparingly  soluble  in 
cold  water,  but  dissolves  more  freely  in  alcohol.  It  is  prepared  by  adding  solution  of  potassium 
iodide  to  the  solution  of  a strychnine  salt,  dissolving  the  precipitate  in  alcohol,  and  crystallizing. 
It  forms  quadrangular  needles  or  white  scales,  has  a very  bitter  taste,  and  contains  72.3  per  cent, 
of  strychnine. 


1528 


STRYCHNINE  SULPHAS. 


Strychnine  hydrobromas,  C2,H22N202.lIBr  ; molecular  weight  414.07.  Bullock  (1875)  recom- 
mended its  preparation  from  45  grains  of  strychnine  sulphate  dissolved  in  a mixture  of  1 fluid- 
ounce  of  water  and  2 fluidrachms  of  alcohol.  To  this  solution  is  added  a solution  of  11.7  grains 
of  potassium  bromide  in  1 fluidrachm  of  water  and  1 fluidounce  of  alcohol.  The  precipitated 
potassium  sulphate  is  filtered  off,  the  filtrate  is  mixed  with  a fluidounce  of  water,  concentrated, 
and  crystallized.  It  forms  prismatic  needles  which  are  sparingly  soluble  in  alcohol,  more 
readily  soluble  in  dilute  alcohol,  and  require  about  32  parts  of  cold  water  for  solution.  It  con- 
tains 80  per  cent,  of  strychnine. 

Strychnine  hydrochloras,  2(C21II22N202.HC1).3H20  5 molecular  weight  793.24.  It  is  best 
prepared  by  dissolving  strychnine  in  warm  dilute  hydrochloric  acid,  and  crystallizes  in  silky 
needles,  which  lose  their  water  of  crystallization  at  120°  C.  It  dissolves  in  50  parts  of  cold  water, 
and  contains  84  per  cent,  of  strychnine. 

Strychnine  nitras  5 Strychninum  nitricum,  P.  G.  On  dissolving  strychnine  in  warm  very 
dilute  nitric  acid  the  solution  yields,  on  cooling,  colorless  needles  of  a silky  lustre  and  very  bitter 
taste.  The  salt  is  soluble  in  90  parts  of  cold  and  in  3 parts  of  boiling  water,  and  in  70  parts  of 
cold  and  5 parts  of  boiling  alcohol.  It  is  less  freely  soluble  in  absolute  alcohol  and  fixed  oils  is 
insoluble  in  ether,  but  dissolves  in  26  parts  of  glycerin.  Its  composition  is  C21H22N202.HN03 
molecular  weight  396.20.  It  contains  84  per  cent,  of  strychnine. 

Action  and  Uses. — It  may  reasonably  be  believed — 1,  that  strychnine  does  not  act 
upon  the  muscles,  the  nervous  extremities,  or  the  nerve-trunks  ; 2,  that  it  does  act  upon 
the  nerve-centres  in  the  medulla  oblongata  and  medulla  spinalis ; and,  3,  that  it  acts 
upon  those  centres  first  by  stimulating  them  when  given  in  small  doses,  and  by  exhaust- 
ing them,  and  thereby  exaggerating  their  reflex  irritability,  when  poisonous  doses 
are  used,  in  this  respect  falling  under  the  general  law  that  the  actions  of  small  and  of 
large  doses  of  an  active  agent  are  antagonistic  to  one  another.  (Compare  Poole,  Med. 
Record , xix.  201.)  The  latter  of  the  two  effects  are  probably  dependent,  in  part  at  least, 
upon  the  power  of  strychnine  to  contract  the  arteries  and  the  heart  and  to  slow  the 
pulse.  It  is  essentially  through  spasm,  in  so  far  as  it  throws  the  respiratory  muscles  into 
tonic  contraction  and  by  rendering  the  chest  immovable,  that  it  tends  to  produce 
asphyxia,  with  its  usual  symptoms  of  dark  venous  congestion  of  the  eyes  and  interior  of 
the  mouth.  This  explanation  renders  clear  the  agency  of  artificial  respiration  in  saving 
the  life  of  animals  in  strychnine  poisoning  (Richet,  Med.  Mews,  etc.,  Nov.  1880,  p.  659), 
and  the  effect  of  keeping  the  frog’s  skin  moist  in  preventing  or  delaying  the  fatal  action 
of  the  poison  upon  this  animal.  (For  an  exhaustive  study  of  the  physiological  action  of 
strychnine  see  Reichert,  Tlierajp.  Gaz.,  vol.  xvi.)  Powdered  nux  vomica  and  also 
strychnine  rubbed  upon  the  skin  persistently  act  as  local  irritants : this  action  is 
greatly  intensified  if  they  are  applied  to  the  raw  cutis,  and  may  be  attended  with  specific 
general  symptoms.  In  small  doses,  internally,  they  are  tonics,  increasing  the  appetite 
and  the  urinary  secretion,  and  the  fecal  discharges  also  when  these  are  infrequent,  but’ 
diminishing  the  latter  when  their  frequency  is  due  to  atony  of  the  bowels.  Like  other 
bitter  tonics,  their  prolonged  and  excessive  use  deranges  the  digestion.  They  appear  to 
augment  the  biliary  and  pancreatic  secretions.  Strychnine  is  excreted  with  the  urine, 
and  occasions  an  increased  frequency  of  urination,  but  in  excess  produces  spasm  of  the 
neck  of  the  bladder,  and  ultimately  impaired  contractile  power  in  this  organ.  It  probably 
excites  uterine  contraction,  promotes  menstruation,  disposes  to  venery,  and  provokes  erec- 
tions of  the  penis.  It  exerts  no  perceptible  action  upon  the  brain,  but  seems  to  increase 
the  functional  activity  of  the  special  senses. 

When  strychnine  acts  poisonously  but  gradually,  owing  to  the  moderate  dose  taken  or 
to  its  slow  absorption  from  the  stomach,  the  patient  complains  first  of  general  uneasiness 
restlessness,  soreness  and  heaviness  of  the  limbs,  and  stiffness  of  the  joints  and  muscles, 
particularly  of  those  of  the  chest  and  lower  jaw  ; and  these  effects  are  succeeded  by 
spasmodic  symptoms.  When  the  dose  has  been  large  and  the  conditions  are  favorable  to 
its  rapid  absorption,  the  phenomena  may  be  clonic  convulsions  or  violent  muscular  twitch- 
ings,  which,  with  the  accompanying  sensation,  have  been  compared  to  the  effects  of  an 
electric  shock.  Whether  rapid  or  slow  in  their  access,  these  phenomena  are  excited  and 
intensified  by  all  external  stimuli.  They  are  succeeded  by  tetanic  muscular  spasms,  dur- 
ing which  the  arms  are  rigidly  bent  and  the  legs  outstretched,  the  hands  being  clenched 
and  the  feet  extended  and  arched,  the  lower  jaw  firmly  fixed  against  the  upper,  and  the 
body  arched  forward.  The  rigid  contraction  of  the  respiratory  muscles  renders  breathing 
laborious  or  even  temporarily  suspends  it,  and,  as  a consequence  of  the  immobility  of  the 
chest,  the  blood  accumulates  in  the  veins  and  gives  a livid  color  to  the  skin.  The  pulse 
is  rapid  and  unequal  both  in  volume  and  force,  and  the  heart-beat  is  also  hurried  and  flut- 
tering. The  retracted  corners  of  the  mouth  disclose  the  set  teeth,  and  foam  issues  from 
between  them,  while  the  staring  eyes  with  dilated  pupils  and  the  contracted  brows  give 


STRYCHNINES  SULPHAS. 


1529 


to  the  countenance  an  expression  of  anguish  mingled  with  fright.  The  mind  generally 
remains  unaffected,  and  pain  is  not  often  complained  of.  The  convulsions  may  be 
altogether  tonic,  and  so  continue  without  interruption  until  death,  but  more  usually 
they  are  clonic  also,  and  are  interrupted  by  intervals  of  calm,  or  rather  of  exhaustion. 
But  during  such  intervals  the  slightest  stimulus  may  suddenly  renew  them,  but  super- 
ficial contact  rather  than  firm  pressure.  Generally  the  spasms  grow  less  violent,  but 
not  so  the  disorder  of  the  circulation  and  the  exhaustion  of  muscular  power : they 
become  more  and  more  marked  until  death,  which  may  be  due  immediately  to  asphyxia 
or  to  asthenia,  according  as  life  terminates  during  a paroxysm  or  not'.  The  onset  and 
course  of  the  symptoms  are  not  always  the  same.  Muscular  rigidity  may  first  affect  the 
spine  and  be  accompanied  by  neuralgia  of  the  spinal  nerves,  or  the  attack  may  commence 
with  shrieks  of  pain  or  alarm,  or  with  giddiness,  insensibility,  and  convulsions ; or  vomit- 
ing may  occur  among  the  earliest  symptoms. 

In  fatal  poisoning  by  strychnine  death  may  take  place  within  five  minutes,  and  is  hardly 
ever  delayed  more  than  five  or  six  hours.  Even  when  poisonous  doses  are  not  followed  by 
death,  their  effects  may  continue  to  be  observed  in  extreme  fatigue  and  exhaustion, 
paralysis  of  the  bladder,  and  sometimes  muscular  stiffness  and  neuralgic  pains  of  several 
days’  duration.  Albuminuria  has  sometimes  been  observed. 

After  death  caused  by  strychnine  cadaveric  rigidity  is  usually  marked  with  opistho- 
tonos, clenching  of  the  hands,  and  flexion  of  the  arms  across  the  chest.  The  face  is 
usually  pale,  but  sometimes  livid.  The  muscles  are  rigid,  and  all  the  internal  organs  are 
gorged  with  dark  and  fluid  blood,  the  cerebral  and  spinal  membranes  not  more  so  nor 
more  uniformly  than  the  rest ; the  latter  may  contain  a serous  effusion  ; the  heart  may 
either  be  contracted,  dilated,  or  natural.  The  urinary  bladder  is  generally  contracted. 
It  is  remarkable  that  the  muscular  rigidity  may  persist  for  months  after  death.  These 
lesions  indicate  the  effects  rather  than  the  mechanism  of  strychnine-poisoning.  But  they 
agree  with  the  symptoms  in  showing  that  the  cause  of  death  by  this  poison  is  primarily 
asphyxia  produced  by  rigidity  of  the  muscles  of  respiration.  This  view  does  not  exclude, 
as  a possible  factor  in  producing  the  result,  exhaustion  of  the  heart  or  spasm  of  that 
organ. 

Strychnine  was  first  employed  medicinally  in  the  treatment  of  paralysis , and  continues 
to  be  used  for  this  affection  more  than  for  any  other.  But  it  is  not  equally  beneficial  in 
all  forms  of  the  disease.  As  already  stated,  it  is  apt  to  aggravate  those  paralyses  which 
depend  upon  a recent  central  lesion,  but  it  is  appropriate  in  the  same  cases  when  the 
acute  stage  has  passed  and  the  symptoms  remain  stationary.  In  such  cases  the  paralyzed 
muscles  are  the  first  to  exhibit  the  specific  action  of  the  medicine.  The  use  of  strychnine 
has  been  praised  more  than  it  deserves  in  cases  of  infantile  spinal  paralysis , a disease  in 
which  restoration  of  muscular  power  is  extremely  are.  The  dose  should  not  exceed  Gm. 
0.0005  (gr.  twice  a day.  It  is  now  demonstrated,  as  it  was  long  ago  observed,  that 
strychnine  is  most  efficient  in  the  cure  of  functional  paralysis,  whether  depending  directly 
upon  anaemia  of  the  spinal  cord  or  upon  general  exhaustion.  Such  are  cases  due  to 
venereal  excesses,  hysteria,  intense  mental  emotion,  concussion  of  the  spinal  marrow, 
abuse  of  opium  or  alcohol,  lead-poisoning,  gout,  rheumatism,  etc.  Paresis  of  the  ocular 
muscles  has  been  cured  by  the  use  of  preparations  of  nux  vomica  (De  Schweinitz,  Med. 
News,  lv.  477).  It  is  claimed  by  some  (Jewell,  Practitioner , xxvii.  377)  that  even  in 
advanced  myelitis  this  medicine  will  cause  improvement  after  the  failure  of  other  remedies. 
Contrary  to  what  would  have  been  expected,  the  doses  which  he  found  efficient  were 
large.  It  may  be  added  that  subsequent  observation  has  not  at  all  agreed  with  this 
conclusion.  Dr.  L.  Gray  and  others  found  that  doses  of  Gm.  0.006  (gr.  -J^)  could 
not  be  tolerated  (Am.  Jour.  Med.  Sci.,  Oct.  1885,  p.  381).  Naunyn  has  faith  in  the 
efficacy  of  strychnine  used  subcutaneously  in  most  of  these  cases,  provided  the  dose  is 
duly  regulated  ( Centralbl .,  vii.  282).  Diphtherial  paralysis  is,  more  than  any  other  form, 
benefited  by  strychnine,  whose  special  stimulus  co-operates  with  that  of  electricity, 
mechanical  excitants,  tonics,  nutrients,  .etc.  The  semi-paralytic  condition  sometimes 
induced  by  the  bromides  is  benefited  by  this  medicine.  It  is  less  necessary,  yet  of  very 
great  utility,  in  paralysis  from  lead.  An  ecbolic  action  has  been  ascribed  to  strychnine 
on  the  ground  of  it  having  seemed  to  produce  tonic  contractions  of  the  uterus  and  pre- 
mature delivery  of  a woman  in  the  eighth  month  of  pregnancy  (Lewis  Smith,  Med.  Record, 
xviii.  578). 

Although  physiological  experiments  do  not  lead  to  the  suggestion  that  strychnine  acts 
upon  the  peripheral  ends  of  nerves,  clinical  observation,  as  in  so  many  other  cases,  is  sup- 
posed to  have  demonstrated  what  the  former  method  has  failed  to  show.  For  more  than 


1530 


STRYCHNINE  SULPHAS. 


forty  years  strychnine  has  been  well  known  to  be  efficacious  in  cases  of  amaurosis  when 
applied  endermically  around  the  orbit ; more  recently  it  has  been  used  by  friction  and 
hypodermically,  by  the  instillation  of  dissolved  strychnine  in  the  eye,  and  also  internally. 
These  methods  have  greatly  ameliorated  and  often  cured  the  disease,  not  only  in  cases 
of  purely  functional  disorder,  but  of  a greater  or  less  alteration  of  the  retina  as  revealed 
by  the  ophthalmoscope  (Gentralbl.  f d.  g.  Therap .,  ii.  228).  Inflammatory  affections  of 
the  eye  in  their  active  stage  are  unsuitable  for  this  medication,  and  so  is  impairment  of 
vision  depending  upon  intracranial  causes,  but  it  is  often  useful  in  disorders  of  accommo- 
dation. The  greater  number  of  ophthalmic  surgeons  insist  upon  the  application  of  the 
medicine  to  the  neighborhood  of  the  eye,  but  others  admit  that  it  is  equally  efficacious 
wherever  introduced.  The  latter  are  probably  right.  It  has  been  employed  with  marked 
success  in  night-blindness. 

Nux  vomica  and  also  strychnine  have  long  been  used  for  the  cure  of  prwlapsus  of  the 
rectum  by  the  mouth,  by  enema,  by  hypodermic  injection,  and  by  application  to  the 
blistered  skin  (Stille,  Therapeutics , 4th  ed.,  ii.  186  ; Med.  Record,  xviii.  682  ; Med.  News , 
xlviii.  36).  Paralysis  of  the  bladder , occasioning  either  retention  or  incontinence  of 
urine,  and  the  latter  affection  in  the  form  of  nocturnal  incontinence  in  children,  has  fre- 
quently been  cured  by  the  use  of  strychnine  by  the  mouth,  sometimes  by  injecting  a 
solution  of  it  into  the  bladder,  and  again  by  the  hypodermic  injection  of  nitrate  of  strychnine. 
Sexual  impotence  is  often  diminished  or  even  cured  by  this  medicine  when  it  depends 
upon  asthenia  of  the  spinal  cord  or  upon  general  debility.  Generally,  however,  it  should 
form  only  one  element  of  a complex  treatment  adapted  to  the  peculiarities  of  each  case.  It 
has  been  thought  to  excite  the  gravid  uterus  and  cause  abortion , and  to  prevent  post- 
partum haemorrhage  when  a predisposition  to  it  exists.  Saccharine  diabetes  is  alleged  to 
have  been  cured  by  nux  vomica  ( Practitioner , xxiii.  51)  ; and  Brunton  and  Howe  claim 
that  it  will  control  the  night-sweats  of  phthisis  ( St . Bart's  Rep.,  xv.  119 ; Lancet,  Sept. 
1884,  p.  408). 

Among  spasmodic  diseases,  tetanus  has  been  cured  by  strychnine,  contrary  to  all  expec- 
tations founded  upon  the  accepted  mode  of  action  of  the  medicine  ; nevertheless,  the 
method  has  found  few  imitators.  The  same  remark  is  nearly  as  applicable  to  chorea,  and 
also  to  epilepsy  ; but  in  regard  to  both  diseases  it  may  be  observed  that  where  the  patients 
are  extremely  feeble,  excitable,  and  timid  this  medicine  may  well  form  part  of  the 
general  plan  of  tonic  treatment  which  is  then  indicated,  and  which  includes  the  adminis- 
tration of  quinine  and  iron.  A like  statement  may  also  be  made  respecting  various  local 
spasms,  as  that  of  the  oesophagus,  facial  tic,  etc.  It  is  said  that  writer's  cramp  has  been 
cured  by  the  hypodermic  use  of  strychnine,  and  the  vomiting  of  pregnancy  by  its  internal 
use.  It  is  alleged  that  the  medicine  has  the  power  of  arresting  the  development  and  pre- 
venting the  usual  effects  of  alcoholic  intoxication  (Luton,  Bull,  de  Therap.,  xcix.  241;  cii. 
473 ; Dujardin-Beaumetz,  ibid. , cvi.  1 ; ibid.,  cviii.  179 ; cxv.  324).  These  physicians 
have  not  feared  to  use  hypodermic  injectons  of  5 Mgm.  (gr.  y1-^-)  in  cases  of  delirium 
tremens  and  mania-a-potu,  without  adverting  to  the  fact  that  the  affections  in  question  ter- 
minate spontaneously  in  cure  in  nearly  all  uncomplicated  instances  if  treated  with  exercise 
and  well-seasoned  food.  Gibson  ( Practitioner , xli.  401)  has  shown  that  strychnine  is  a 
clinical  as  well  as  a physiological  antidote  to  the  poisonous  effects  of  opium,  as  indicated 
by  irregularity  or  interruption  of  the  breathing.  It  should  be  administered  hypodermi- 
cally in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.001  (gr.  ff).  It  is  one  of  the  numerous  remedies  which  have 
seemed  to  moderate  hay  fever.  It  has  been  known  to  cure  facial  neuralgia,  lead  colic , 
dysmenorrhoea,  etc.,  but  its  efficacy  is  too  inconstant  to  inspire  confidence.  There  is  one 
form  of  neuralgia,  gastralgia,  in  which  it  is  often  of  signal  benefit,  doubtless  more  by  its 
power  as  a bitter  tonic  than  as  a nervine.  The  cases  in  which  it  is  most  useful  are  those 
in  which  the  gastralgia  is  associated  with  gastrodynia  attended  by  flatulent  dyspepsia , 
eructations,  and  sometimes  vomiting  of  food,  along  with  habitual  constipation.  In  some 
of  these  cases  strychnine — or,  still  better,  nux  vomica — should  be  combined  with  antacids 
and  stimulant  carminatives.  It  is,  on  the  whole,  best  suited  to  combat  the  element 
gastric  debility,  with  whatever  symptoms  that  condition  may  be  associated.  Their  tonic 
action  upon  the  intestine  renders  nux  vomica  and  strychnine  appropriate  remedies  for 
constipation  depending  upon  atony  of  the  bowel.  (Compare  Bodenhamer,  Med.  Record, 
xxxv.  372.)  But  for  this  purpose  it  should  be  prescribed  in  small  doses  taken  immedi- 
ately after  meals,  or  should  be  associated  with  aloes,  rhubarb,  and  soap,  or  with  the  first 
only,  in  a pill,  which  is  most  conveniently  taken  at  bedtime.  A similar  mode  of  action 
makes  it  one  of  the  best  remedies  for  the  so-called  spasmodic  obstruction  of  the  bowel, 
which  is  really,  in  most  cases,  constipation  with  fecal  accumulations  at  one  part  of  the 


STRYCHNINE  SULPHAS. 


1531 


intestine  and  flatulent  distension  at  another.  Tympanites  from  intestinal  debility  is 
favorably  influenced  by  this  medicine,  especially  if  associated  with  lime-water  or  some 
antifermentative,  as  salicylic  acid.  On  the  other  hand,  chronic  diarrhoea  and  dysentery , 
affections  in  which  the  discharges  are  apt  to  be  prolonged  by  the  exhausted  state  of  the 
bowel,  are  often  benefited  by  nux  vomica  or  strychnine.  The  latter  is  alleged  to  have 
been  found  useful  in  epidemic  cholera.  It  is  also  reported  to  act  as  a vermifuge  and  to 
arrest  sea-sickness , in  the  dose  of  -fa  grain  every  four  hours.  Finally,  it  has  been  used 
with  alleged  benefit  in  various  forms  of  dyspnoea  depending  upon  pulmonary  and  cardiac 
obstruction,  including  emphysema , bronchitis,  and,  along  with  digitalis,  in  cases  of  irregular 
and  fatty  heart  (Fothergill)  ; in  a word,  in  all  those  conditions  of  the  heart  and  lungs 
marked  by  positive  or  by  relative  debility  of  these  organs. 

Brucine  appears  to  act  like  strychnine  upon  the  spinal  cord  and  the  muscles  (Brunton). 
Anaesthetic  virtues  have  been  ascribed  to  a 5 per  cent,  solution  of  it  applied  to  the  auditory 
canal  (Burnett ; Zeiss),  the  throat,  and  the  nasal  passages  ; but  upon  the  skin  it  failed  to 
exhibit  them.  Others  have  more  prudently  employed  doses  of  Gm.  0.001  (gr.  fa)  three 
times  a day  in  pill.  Manassein  states  that  the  use  of  the  medicine  neutralizes  the  craving 
for  alcohol  for  the  time  being  ( Lancet , Oct.  16,  1880).  Like  other  nerve-tonics,  strych- 
nine sometimes  lessens  insomnia  caused  by  mental  exhaustion. 

The  first  dose  of  strychnine  should  not  be  greater  than  from  Gm.  0.003-0.005  (fa  to 
TL  grain)  ; as  a general  rule,  it  is  better  to  begin  with  Gm.  0.002  (fa  grain),  and  cautiously 
increase  the  dose  until  a slight  manifestation  of  its  specific  effects  occurs  or  until  the 
object  of  its  administration  is  attained.  It  is  usually  prescribed  in  pill&  of  breadcrumb 
or  of  confection  of  roses,  care  being  taken  to  mix  the  mass  thoroughly  and  divide  it 
accurately.  A convenient  form,  which  its  bitterness  alone  renders  objectionable,  is  to 
dissolve  Gm.  0.06  (1  grain)  of  strychnine  in  Gm.  8 (2  fluidrachms)  of  rectified  spirit 
with  the  aid  of  2 minims  of  sulphuric,  acetic,  or  muriatic  acid,  so  that  every  10  minims 
of  the  solution  shall  contain  Gm.  0.005  (gr.  fa)  of  the  salt  of  strychnine.  For  hypodermic 
injection  a solution  of  Gm.  0.26  (4  grains)  of  sulphate  or  muriate  of  strychnine  in  Gm. 
32  (1  fluidounce)  of  water  is  used.  Each  minim  contains  Gm.  0.0005  (y^  grain)  of  the 
salt.  Gm.  0.001  (2  minims  or  fa  grain)  of  strychnine  may  be  used  as  a primary  dose. 
In  all  cases  in  which  strychnine  is  used  the  modifying  operation  of  idiosyncrasies  and  of 
the  existing  disease  must  be  regarded. 

Treatment  of  Poisoning  by  Strychnine. — As  in  the  case  of  other  poisons  taken  into  the 
stomach,  so  in  poisoning  by  strychnine  free  vomiting  should  be  produced  by  mustard 
and  warm  water,  or,  as  has  been  found  successful  in  more  than  one  case,  by  the  hypoder- 
mic injection  of  Gm.  0.02  (i  grain)  of  apomorphine,  after  which  the  bowels  should  be 
purged  with  castor  oil,  croton  oil,  or  a saline  laxative.  In  one  instance  this  use  of  apo- 
morphine saved  the  life  of  a man  who  had  swallowed  20  grains  of  strychnine  sulphate 
(Med.  News , lxi.  214).  When  asphyxia  threatens,  artificial  respiration  should  be  resorted 
to.  As  mechanical  antidotes  which  retard  the  absorption  of  the  poison,  lard,  sweet  oil, 
and  milk  have  been  used  with  apparent  success  immediately  after  the  poison  was  taken 
and  before  its  spasmodic  action  had  been  developed.  Animal  charcoal , and  also  tannin , 
have  been  used  with  the  same  view.  Of  the  other  alleged  antidotes,  all  are  more  or  less 
sedatives  of  the  nervous  system,  and  therefore  antagonists  of  the  spasm  produced  by  the 
poison.  The  first  of  these  is  the  medicine  which  has  been  so  much  employed  in  the  treat- 
ment of  tetanus,  opium  or  morphine,  and  from  which,  d priori,  much  was  to  be  expected. 
But  experimentally  and  clinically  the  expectation  has  proved  to  be  unfounded.  Opium 
and  its  salts  are  useless  in  strychnine-poisoning,  however  efficient  they  may  be  in  relieving 
the  symptoms  produced  by  the  alkaloid  when  its  medicinal  operation  is  but  slightly 
exceeded,  or  in  delaying  the  absorption  of  the  poison,  and  therefore  the  manifestation  of 
its  symptoms.  Aconitine  and  woorara  are  also  regarded  as  physiological  antidotes  to 
strychnine,  but  we  are  unacquainted  with  any  instances  of  their  use  as  such  in  human 
poisoning.  The  same  remark  applies  to  prussic  acid.  Moreover,  the  physiological  antag- 
onism of  woorara  and  strychnine  has  been  denied  by  Vulpian,  Brown-Sequard,  and 
others.  Camphor,  internally,  is  said  to  have  arrested  the  toxical  symptoms.  There  is 
more  evidence  in  favor  of  chloroform,  which  unquestionably  has  in  several  cases  controlled 
the  spasm  and  apparently  prevented  death,  while  in  others  it  has  rendered  the  phenomena 
of  death  less  distressing  (Haynes,  Philada.  Med.  Times,  xiv.  504).  The  antagonism  shown 
by  experiments  upon  animals  to  exist  between  chloral  and  strychnine  is  more  or  less 
exhibited  in  cases  of  poisoning  by  the  latter.  Chloral  counteracts  the  spasmodic  effects 
of  strychnine,  and  thus  conserves  force,  while  it  gains  time  for  the  elimination  of  the 
poison.  In  the  case  of  a woman  who  had  taken  40  Cgm.  (gr.  vj)  of  strychnine  recovery 


1532 


STY  RAX. 


ultimately  took  place,  and  was  evidently  due  to  the  administration  of  chloral  by  the 
mouth  and  rectum  and  hypodermically  (Faucon,  Archives  gen.,  Jan.  1833,  p.  74).  Another 
case,  in  which  the  estimated  dose  of  the  poison  was  5 grains,  recovered  after  the  use  of 
chloral  hydrate,  but  apparently  in  doses  quite  inadequate  to  control  the  action  of  the 
strychnine  ( Boston  Med.  and  & hug.  Jour.,  July  1881,  p.  8).  Two  cases  are  reported  by 
Moore  {Med.  News , xli.  566),  the  one  illustrating  the  virtues  of  strychnine  in  chloral- 
poisoning, and  the  other  (in  a dog)  of  chloral  in  poisoning  by  strychnine.  (On  the  rela- 
tions between  the  two  agents  see  Husemann,  etc.,  Amer.  Jour.  Med.  Sci.,  Apr.  1882, 
p.  608.)  Amyl  nitrite,  which  appears  to  be  more  or  less  antidotal  to  strychnine  in  dogs 
and  frogs,  does  not  seem  to  have  been  sufficiently  tested  in  poisoning  by  this  substance 
in  man  (Hare,  Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  Nov.  1884,  p.  481).  Potassium  bromide  is 
credited  with  several  striking  cures  of  strychnine-poisoning.  In  three  of  them  the  doses 
of  strychnine  were  very  large  and  the  effects  characteristic  ; but  repeated  doses  of  the 
bromide,  varying  in  their  totality  from  Gm.  5-16  (80  grains  to  i ounce),  saved  the 
patients.  Experiments  on  animals  demonstrate  the  power  of  the  bromide  to  prevent  or 
mitigate  strychnine  spasms.  In  several  cases  the  bromide  has  been  associated  with 
chloral  {Med.  Record,  xix.  208),  but  the  experiments  of  Husemann  (1880)  seem  to  show 
that  the  former  medicine  was  superfluous  {Bull,  de  Ther.,  xcix.  429).  Calabar  bean  and 
strychnine  appear  to  be  truly  antagonistic,  in  that  the  one  counteracts  the  operation  of 
the  other,  provided  that  their  doses  and  the  time  of  their  administration  be  duly  adjusted. 
But  there  is  great  danger  that  death  by  asphyxia  may  be  escaped  only  by  encountering 
the  risk  of  dealffi  from  exhaustion.  In  two  cases  which  terminated  favorably  this  unto- 
ward result  was  prevented  by  the  use  of  stimulants  internally  and  externally.  In  one  of 
these  cases  Gm.  0.05  (f  grain)  of  the  extract  of  physostigma  was  exhibited  three  times 
within  an  hour,  and  in  the  other  case  Gm.  0.06  (1  grain)  in  a single  dose.  These  conclu- 
sions concerning  the  efficiency  of  chloroform,  chloral,  potassium  bromide,  and  physo- 
stigma have  been  experimentally  confirmed  by  Husemann  (1878).  Tobacco  and  nicotine 
have  been  employed  experimentally  as  antidotes  to  strychnine,  and,  on  the  whole,  with 
not  unfavorable  results.  Whether  or  not  they  may  be  so  regarded  in  a physiological 
sense  matters  little,  provided  that  they  save  lives  which  would  otherwise  be  lost.  That 
tobacco  has  done  so  is  proved  by  several  recorded  cases  {Amer.  Jour.  Med.  Sci.,  Apr. 
1857,  p.  551;  Aug.  1862,  p.  172;  Dublin  Quart.  Jour.,  Aug.  1862,  p.  183;  Brit,  and 
For.  Med.-Chir.  Rev.,  Jan.  1867,  p.  243).  Possibly  it  may  have  acted  in  part  by  hasten- 
ing the  elimination  of  the  poison  with  the  urine.  The  uncertainty  and  possible  danger 
of  these  antidotes  should  exclude  them  when  chloral  can  be  obtained.  Belladonna  and 
atropine  have  also  been  suggested  as  antidotes  to  strychnine,  and  a case  is  recorded  in 
which,  atropine  having  been  injected  simultaneously,  the  patient  recovered.  Gm.  0.01 
{jr  grain)  was  thus  used  three  times  at  intervals  of  ten  minutes.  In  two  more  recent 
cases  recovery  was  attributed  to  the  administration  of  atropine  {Phila.  Med.  Times , 
x.  323). 

STYRAX,  U.  S. — Storax. 

Styrax  prseparatus , Br. ; Styrax  liquidus , P.  G. ; Balsamum  styracis. — Liquid  storax , 
E.  ; Styrax  liquide,  Fr.  Cod.  ; Fliissiger  Storax , G. ; Estoraque  liquido,  Sp. 

A balsam  prepared  from  the  bark  of  Liquidambar  orientalis,  Miller , s.  L.  imberbe, 
Aiton.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  107. 

Nat.  Ord. — Hamamelaceae,  Balsamifluae. 

Origin.— The  tree  yielding  liquid  storax  closely  resembles  the  sweet-gum  tree  of 
North  America  (see  p.  946),  from  which  it  differs  in  having  smooth  leaves  with 
obtuse,  often  three-lobed,  and  finely  serrulate  lobes,  and  in  producing  smaller  heads  of 
fruit.  It  has  been  found  only  in  the  south-western  part  of  Asia  Minor,  where  it  forms 
forests. 

Production. — The  extraction  of  liquid  storax  was  described  by  Hanbury  (1857") 
from  accounts  received  from  S.  H.  Maltass  and  Lieut.  Robert  Campbell.  The  outer  bark 
is  stripped  off  on  one  side  of  the  tree,  made  into  bundles,  and  reserved  for  the  purpose 
of  fumigation.  The  inner  bark  is  then  scraped  off  with  a semicircular  or  sickle-shaped 
knife,  and  thrown  into  pits  until  a sufficient  quantity  has  been  collected.  It  is  then 
boiled  in  water,  upon  which  the  resinous  matter  comes  to  the  surface,  and  is  skimmed 
off.  The  boiled  bark  is  next  put  into  hair-sacks  and  pressed,  boiling  water  being  added 
to  assist  in  the  extraction  of  the  resin,  or,  as  it  is  termed,  yagh — i.  e.  oil.  According  to 
Maltass,  the  fresh  bark  is  pressed  in  strong  horsehair  bags  by  means  of  a wooden  lever 
press,  hot  water  being  afterward  thrown  over  the  bags,  and  these  subjected  to  pressure  a 


STY  BAX. 


1533 


second  time.  Dr.  McGrath  states  that  the  storax  is  chiefly  collected  by  a tribe  of  wander- 
ing Turcomans  called  Yuruks , and  that  the  liquid  resin,  separated  from  the  bark  by  boiling 
and  pressure,  is  run  into  barrels. 

Description. — Liquid  storax  has  the  consistence  of  thick  honey,  and  is  sticky, 
opaque,  and  of  a gray  color,  caused  by  the  water  which  is  diffused  through  it.  By 
long  standing  it  separates  a heavier  dark-brown  (in  thin  layers  transparent)  stratum. 
When  heated  it  becomes  thinner  and  more  transparent,  the  water  separating  slowly, 
and  when  ignited  it  burns  with  a bright  sooty  flame.  It  becomes  harder  by  age  and  on 
exposure,  is  heavier  than  water,  and  has  a strong  agreeable  odor  somewhat  resembling 
that  of  vanilla.  Its  taste  is  pungently  balsamic.  With  the  exception  of  the  water 
and  the  impurities  contained  in  it,  storax  dissolves  in  alcohol,  ether,  chloroform,  and 
most  of  the  volatile  oils.  With  an  equal  weight  of  warm  alcohol  it  yields  a turbid 
gray-brown  solution  having  an  acid  reaction  ; when  cooled  and  filtered  the  solution, 
on  evaporation,  yields  not  less  than  70  per  cent,  of  the  weight  of  the  balsam  in  the 
form  of  a brown  semi-liquid  residue,  which  deposits  crystals  only  after  a long  time, 
and  which,  with  the  exception  of  a few  floccules,  is  completely  soluble  in  ether  and  in 
carbon  disulphide  ( U.  S.,  P.  G.).  It  is  insoluble  in  cold  petroleum  benzin,  but  dis- 
solves partly  in  it  while  hot,  the  colorless  solution  depositing  crystals  of  cinnamic  acid 
and  cinnamic  ethers  on  cooling.  Examined  under  the  microscope,  storax  is  seen  to  con- 
sist of  minute  globules,  intermixed  with  larger  drops  of  water  and  with  tabular  crystals 
of  cinnamic  acid,  and  when  left  on  the  object  glass  feathery  crystals  of  styracin  make 
their  appearance. 

Styrax  pryeparatus,  Br.,  is  storax  purified  by  melting  and  straining  ( F Cod.'),  or  by 
dissolving  in  rectified  spirit  (benzene,  P.  G.),  filtering,  and  evaporating  the  solvent.  It  has 
a brown-yellow  color,  is  semi-transparent  or  transparent  in  thin  layers,  and  otherwise  resem- 
bles the  crude  balsam. 

Constituents. — E.  Simon  (1839)  obtained  from  this  balsam  styrolene,  cinnamic  acid, 
styracin,  and  two  resins.  In  addition  to  these,  W.  von  Miller  (1876-77)  found  a little 
benzoic  acid,  ethyl  cinnamate,  and  a fragrant  compound  melting  at  65°  C.  (149°  E.),  prob- 
ably ethyl  vanillin  ; in  larger  proportion  was  found  the  alcohol  storesin  in  two  modifica- 
tions— the  cinnamic  ether  of  this  alcohol  and  cinnamate  of  phenylpropyl.  Styrolene  or 
cinnamene  has  the  composition  C8H8,  and  is  obtained  by  distilling  storax  with  water.  The 
yield  is  very  variable.  It  is  a colorless,  thin  liquid,  very  refractive  to  light,  and  of  a 
very  fragrant  odor  and  burning  taste.  It  has  been  artificially  obtained  by  heating  acetyl- 
ene gas,  and  from  ethyl-benzene  bromide  by  heating  it  with  baryta.  Its  specific  gravity 
is  0.924,  and  it  boils  at  146°  C.  (294.8°  F.)  ; but  when  heated  to  200°  C.  (392°  F.)  it  is 
rapidly  converted  into  a polymeric  compound,  meta  cinnamene,  which  is  a colorless,  amor- 
phous, tough  solid  of  the  specific  gravity  1.054,  insoluble  in  alcohol  and  ether,  and  recon- 
verted into  styrene  when  distilled.  Cinnamic  acid,  (see  page  1119)  may  be  obtained  by 
treating  storax  with  a solution  of  sodium  carbonate  and  precipitating  the  acid  by  means 
of  hydrochloric  acid.  The  ethers  are  obtained  from  storax  previously  deprived  of  cinna- 
mic acid  by  treating  it  with  hot  petroleum  benzin,  on  the  cooling  of  which  white  or  color- 
less needles  are  deposited  which  require  repeated  treatment  with  hot  benzin.  Styracin 
melts  at  38°  C.  (100.4°  F.),  and  after  prolonged  heating  congeals  to  a transparent  mass, 
in  which  crystals  are  formed  very  slowly.  It  is  styryl  (cinnamyl)  cinnamate,  C9H9.C9H702, 
and  when  in  alcoholic  solution  treated  with  caustic  soda,  or  when  heated  with  an  aqueous 
solution  of  soda,  is  converted  into  sodium  cinnamate  and  cinnam-alcohol.  also  known  as 
styryl  alcohol  and  styron,  C9H10O.  This  crystallizes  in  6olorless  silky  needles,  has  an  agreeable 
hyacinthine  odor,  melts  at  33°  C.  (91.4°  F.),  and  boils  at  250°  C.  (482°  F.).  Styracin  and  cin- 
namic acid  yield  with  oxidizing  agents  oil  of  bitter  almonds  and  benzoic  acid,  and  when  styrol 
is  treated  with  chromic  acid  and  then  boiled  with  water  benzoic  acid  is  obtained.  After 
saponifying  storax  with  an  alkali,  and  subjecting  the  alcohols  to  fractional  distillation, 
Laubenheimer  (1872)  obtained  a distillate  having  the  properties  of  benzyl  alcohol ; this 
is  a colorless  liquid  of  a weak  but  fragrant  odor,  having  the  specific  gravity  1.06  and  the 
composition  C:HsO.  Storesin,  C36H5803,  is  amorphous,  melts  at  168°  C.  ( ft  storesin  at 
145°  C.),  and  dissolves  readily  in  alcohol,  ether,  petroleum  benzin,  and  potassa, 
forming  with  the  latter  a crystalline  compound.  Mylius  (1882)  prepared  styrogenin, 
C2t>H40O3,  from  that  portion  of  storax  which  is  soluble  in  boiling  benzin  ; after  treating 
it  with  an  equal  weight  of  sulphuric  acid,  boiling  with  water,  and  washing  with  ether, 
white  crystals  are  left  which  are  easily  soluble  in  chloroform,  melt  at  350°  C.,  dis- 
solve in  cold  sulphuric  acid,  being  reprecipitated  by  water,  and  yield  with  warm  sul- 
phuric acid  a yellowish-red  solution,  which  with  water  precipitates  uncrystallizable  resin. 


1534 


SUCCL—SUCCUS  BELLADONNA. 


Commercial  storax  contains  from  10  to  20  per  cent,  of  water  and  from  13  to  18  per 
cent,  of  fragments  of  bark  and  inorganic  impurities  ( Pharmacographia ). 

Adulterations. — Storax  is  said  to  be  sometimes  adulterated  with  turpentine.  Hager 
(1874)  proposed  to  detect  the  adulteration  by  dissolving  the  storax  in  a little  warm  alco- 
hol and  exhausting  it  with  petroleum  benzin  by  agitation.  On  evaporating  the  benzin 
solution  the  residue  should  have  a bluish  opalescence  and  an  agreeable  odor,  while  if  tur- 
pentine be  present  the  color  will  be  yellowish  and  the  odor  of  turpentine  will  be  apparent. 

Allied  Products. — Cortex  thymiamatis.  This  is  the  bark  from  which  storax  has  been  ob- 
tained. It  is  in  brown  foliaceous  cakes,  consisting  of  thin  pieces  of  bark  and  having  the  odor  of 
storax. 

Styrax  calamita.  As  now  found  in  the  market,  it  consists  of  sawdust  mixed  with  liquid  storax, 
and  contains  numerous  minute  crystals  of  styracin.  The  drug  known  by  this  name  in  ancient 
times  and  during  the  last  century  was  a solid  balsamic  resin,  most  likely  obtained  from  Styrax 
officinale,  Limit,  which  is  indigenous  to  Western  Asia  and  South-eastern  Europe.  This  is  no 
longer  an  article  of  commerce. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  medicinal  action  and  uses  of  storax  are  almost  identical 
with  those  of  copaiba,  like  which  it  was  formerly  employed  in  the  treatment  of  chronic 
catarrhs,  particularly  of  the  lungs,  but  also  to  some  extent  in  similar  affections  of  the 
digestive  and  urinary  organs,  and  especially  in  gonorrhoea.  It  has  been  highly  recom- 
mended as  a dressing  for  ulcers  following  frostbite.  Within  a few  years  its  use  as  a 
remedy  for  scabies  has  been  revived.  As  of  old,  it  is  mixed  with  olive  oil  for  this  pur- 
pose : a mixture  of  1 part  of  storax  with  2 or  3 parts  of  oil  is  rubbed  diligently  into  the 
affected  parts,  and  in  the  course  of  twelve  hours  a warm  bath  with  soap  is  used,  after 
which  the  skin  is  again  covered  with  the  liniment.  This  treatment  generally  suffices  for 
a cure  in  nearly  all  of  the  cases.  It  is  convenient  for  its  cheapness,  as  well  as  for  its 
acceptableness,  particularly  when  balsam  of  Peru  is  added  to  the  storax  in  the  proportion 
of  about  one-fourth.  The  latter  ingredient  improves  the  odor  of  the  mixture.  Of  124 
cases  of  itch  treated  by  Unna  with  styrax  frictions,  nine  are  said  to  have  had  albuminous 
urine  during  or  immediately  after  the  treatment,  the  albumen  varying  in  proportion  from 
one-tenth  to  one-half.  On  the  successive  application  of  heat  and  nitric  acid  the  precipi- 
tate was  apparently  albuminous  ; but  the  counter-proof  of  attempting  its  solution  with 
alcohol,  which  would  have  dissolved  a possible  resinous  deposit,  does  not  seem  to  have 
been  tried.  (Compare  Virchow's  Archiv,  lxxiv.  424,  and  Lassar,  ibid,  lxxvii.  558.)  The 
following  formula  is  recommended  as  more  efficient  than  the  mixture  described  above : 
R.  Liquid  storax  %j  ; Alcohol  fgij  ; Olive  oil  f^j. — M.  S.  For  two  frictions.  The  dose 
of  storax  internally  is  Gm.  0.60-1.30  (gr.  x-xx). 

Styracin , or  styrone , is  said  to  be  an  antiseptic  and  deodorizer.  When  pure  it  is  slightly 
irritating  to  raw  surfaces,  but  dissolved  in  6 parts  of  oil  or  water  it  is  no  longer  so.  1 
part  in  12  forms  a convenient  solution  for  an  antiseptic  dressing  ( Boston  Med.  and  Snrg. 
Jour.,  Mar.  1880,  p.  249). 


SUCCL— Juices. 

Sues  vegetaux,  Fr. ; Pflanzensafte,  G. 

These  preparations  are  made  by  bruising  the  fresh  drugs,  expressing  them  forcibly,  and 
mixing  the  expressed  juice, with  a definite  proportion  of  alcohol  for  preservation.  They  must 
necessarily  vary  in  the  amount  of  their  active  constituents,  and  perhaps  more  so  than  the 
dried  and  carefully-preserved  drugs.  They  have  been  dismissed  from  the  U.  S.  P.,  and 
tinctures  of  fresh  herbs  admitted  in  place  thereof.  (See  Tincture  Herbarum  Recen- 
tium.) 

SUCCUS  BELLADONNA,  Br.— Juice  of  Belladonna. 

Sue  de  belladone,  Fr.  ; Belladonna saft,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  fresh  leaves  and  young  branches  of  Belladonna  7 pounds ; 
Rectified  Spirit  a sufficiency.  Bruise  the  belladonna  in  a stone  mortar,  press  out  the 
juice,  and  to  every  3 measures  of  juice  add  1 of  the  spirit.  Set  aside  for  seven  days,  and 
filter.  Keep  it  in  a cool  place. — Br. 

Uses. — The  dose  of  this  preparation  is  Gm.  0.30-1  (n^v-xv). 


SUCCUS  CONII. — S ULPH  ON  A L. 


1535 


SUCCUS  CONII,  Br.— Juice  of  Conium. 

Juice  of  hemlock , E.  ; Sue  de  grande  eigne,  Fr. ; Schierlingsaft , G. 

Preparation. — Bruise  fresh  leaves  and  young  branches  of  Hemlock,  press  out  the 
juice,  and  to  every  3 measures  of  juice  add  1 of  spirit.  Set  aside  the  liquid  for  seven 
days,  and  filter.  Keep  it  in  a cool  place. — Br. 

Uses. — The  dose  of  juice  of  conium  is  stated  at  Gm.  2-4  fess-j),  but  the  character- 
istic effects  of  the  drug  are  not  manifested  in  the  slightest  degree  by  doses  of  less  than 
Gm.  8 (^ij),  and  ordinarily  they  are  not  well  marked  by  less  doses  than  Gm.  lb  (J 
ounce).  Doses  of  Gm.  32-128  (sj-iv),  have  been  given  without  occasioning  alarming 
symptoms.  But  in  whatever  dose  the  medicine  is  administered,  it  should  not  be  increased 
beyond  the  point  at  which  it  begins  to  render  deglutition  and  voluntary  movement 
imperfect.  This  preparation  is  relatively  less  powerful  in  children  than  in  adults. 

SUCCUS  HYOSCYAMI,  Br.— Juice  of  Hyoscyamus. 

Sue  dejusquiame , Fr.  ; Bilsensaft , G. 

Preparation. — Bruise  fresh  leaves,  flowering  tops,  and  young  branches  of  Hyoscya- 
mus in  a stone  mortar,  press  out  the  juice,  and  to  every  3 measures  of  juice  add  1 of 
spirit.  Set  aside  for  seven  days,  and  filter.  Keep  it  in  a cool  place. — Br. 

Uses. — The  dose  is  from  Gm.  2-4  (fgss-j). 

SUCCUS  SCOPARH,  Br.— Juice  of  Broom. 

Sue  de  genet  d halais , Fr.  ; Besenginstersaft , G. 

Preparation. — Bruise  fresh  Broom-tops  in  a stone  mortar,  press  out  the  juice,  and 
to  every  3 measures  of  juice  add  1 of  spirit.  Set  aside  for  seven  days  and  filter.  Keep 
in  a cool  place. — Br. 

Uses. — This  juice  may  be  prescribed  in  doses  of  Gm.  4-8  (f^j-ij). 

SUCCUS  TARAXACI,  Br. — Juice  of  Dandelion. 

Sue  de  pissenlit,  Fr. ; Lowenzahnsaft , G. 

Preparation. — Bruise  fresh  Dandelion-root  in  a stone  mortar,  press  out  the  juice, 
and  to  every  3 measures  of  juice  add  1 of  spirit.  Set  aside  the  liquid  for  seven  days, 
and  filter.  Keep  it  in  a cool  place. — Br. 

Uses. — -This  preparation  is  a convenient  form  for  the  administration  of  dandelion, 
but  it  may  be  surmised  that  even  the  small  proportion  of  alcohol  which  it  contains  may 
impair  its  virtues  in  those  hepatic  derangements  for  which  dandelion  is  a reputed  remedy. 
The  dose  is  from  Gm.  8—16  (fgij— iv). 

SULPHONAL,  Br.  Add. — Sulphonal. 

Sidfonalum , P.  G. — Diethylsidphon-dimethylmethane , E. ; Sulfonal , G. 

Formula  (CH3)2C(S02C2H5)2  = C7H16S204.  Molecular  weight  227.59. 

History. — Diethylsulphon-diemethylmethane  was  first  produced  in  1886  by  E.  Bau- 
mann, and  since  1888  has  been  manufactured  on  a large  scale  and  sold  under  the  copy- 
righted name  u sulphonal.” 

Preparation. — When  dry  hydrochloric  acid  gas  is  led  into  a mixture  of  2 parts 
of  anhydrous  ethyl  hydrosulphide  (mercaptan,  C2H5SH)  and  1 part  of  anhydrous  acetone, 
heat  is  slowly  developed ; the  mixture  becomes  gradually  turbid,  and  finally  separates 
into  two  distinct  layers,  the  lower  being  a dilute  hydrochloric  acid,  while  the  upper  is 
composed  of  a new  compound,  known  as  dithioethyldimethylmethane  or  mercaptol 
(CH3)2C(SC2H5)2,  a condensation-product  of  the  interaction  between  the  mercaptan  and 
acetone.  Mercaptol  may  also  be  obtained  by  a process  patented  in  Germany,  which  con- 
sists in  first  treating  sodium  thiosulphate  with  ethyl  chloride  or  bromide,  whereby  sodium 
ethylthiosulphate  is  produced  ; thus,  Na2S203  -f-  C2H5C1  = NaC2H5S203  + NaCl : this 
salt  in  the  presence  of  water  yields  acid  sodium  sulphate  and  ethyl  hydrosulphide  or 
mercaptan  ; the  latter  is  not  separated,  but  in  its  nascent  state,  in  the  presence  of  hydro- 
chloric acid,  is  allowed  to  react  with  acetone,  condensing  to  mercaptol.  Obtained  by 
either  process,  mercaptol  is  an  oily  liquid,  which  is  purified  by  washing  with  water  and 
afterward  with  dilute  soda  solution  ; it  is  dried  by  means  of  calcium  chloride  and  recti- 
fied by  distillation  ; it  boils  at  190°-191°  C.  (374°-375.8°  F.),  is  highly  refractive,  insolu- 


1536 


SULPHONAL. 


ble  in  water,  and  has  a ver}T  disagreeable  odor.  Upon  agitating  mercaptol  with  5 per 
cent,  potassium  permanganate  solution  until  the  color  of  the  latter  remains,  oxidation 
takes  place  and  the  mercaptol  is  converted  into  sulphonal  ; thus,  (CH3)2C(SC2H5)2  -J-  04= 
(CH3)2C(S02C2H5),.  Sulphonal  may  be  obtained  absolutely  pure  by  recrystallization 
from  water  or  alcohol. 

Properties. — Sulphonal  occurs  as  colorless,  inodorous,  nearly  tasteless,  prismatic 
crystals,  neutral  to  test-paper  and  melting  at  125°— 126°  C.  (257°— 258.8°  F.).  It  is 
soluble  in  500  parts  (P.  6r.)  or  450  parts  (Br.)  of  cold  water,  15  parts  of  boiling  water, 
65  parts  (P.  G .)  or  50  parts  (Br.)  of  cold  or  2 parts  of  boiling  alcohol,  and  in  135  parts 
of  ether.  Ignited  with  free  access  of  air,  it  burns  without  leaving  a residue.  A mix- 
ture of  sulphonal  and  powdered  wood  charcoal  heated  in  a test-tube  develops  the  cha- 
racteristic disagreeable  odor  of  mercaptan  (P.  G.').  If  a few  grains  of  sulphonal  be 
mixed  with  an  equal  weight  of  potassium  cyanide  and  heated,  the  odor  of  mercaptan  is 
evolved,  and  when  to  the  solution  of  the  product  in  water  excess  of  hydrochloric  acid 
and  a few  drops  of  solution  of  ferric  chloride  are  added,  a reddish  color  is  developed 
(Br.)  : the  last  reaction  is  due  to  the  formation  of  ferric  sulphocyanate.  The  odor  of 
mercaptan  is  also  evolved  if  sulphonal  be  heated  with  pyrogallol  or  gallio  acid.  Sul- 
phonal is  a very  stable  compound,  being  unaffected  by  concentrated  acids  or  alkalies,  as 
well  as  chlorine  or  bromine. 

Tests. — “ A solution  of  1 part  of  sulphonal  in  50  parts  of  boiling  water  should  be 
free  from  odor.  The  aqueous  solution,  filtered  when  cold,  should  not  be  affected  by 
barium  nitrate  or  silver  nitrate  solution  (absence  of  sulphuric  acid  and  chlorides).  1 
drop  of  potassium  permanganate  solution  added  to  10  Cc.  of  the  above  solution  should 
not  be  decolorized  (absence  of  oxidizable  organic  impurities).’* — P.  G. 

Allied  Compounds. — Trional,  Diethylsulphon-methylethylmethane,  Cn3.C2II5.C(S02C2II5)2. 
This  compound  differs  from  sulphonal,  as  the  formula  shows,  by  the  substitution  of  an  ethyl 
group  for  a methyl  group  ; it  is  prepared  exactly  like  sulphonal,  except  that  methyl-ethyl-ketone 
is  used  in  place  of  acetone.  Trional  forms  shining,  colorless,  odorless  crystalline  plates,  which 
melt  at  76°  C.  (168.8°  F.)  It  is  soluble  in  300  parts  of  water  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  and  in  less  hot 
water ; also  readily  soluble  in  alcohol  and  ether. 

Tetronal,  Diethylsulphon-diethylmethane,  (C2H5)2C(S02C2H5)2.  When  diethyl-ketone,  (C2H5)2- 
CO,  is  used  in  place  of  acetone  in  the  process  for  the  manufacture  of  sulphonal,  diethyl-ketone 
mercaptol,  (C2H5)2C(SC2II5)2,  is  produced,  and  this  upon  oxidation  with  potassium  permanganate 
yields  tetronal,  a compound  analogous  to  sulphonal  and  trional.  It  occurs  in  colorless  and  odor- 
less shining  plates  and  laminae,  melting  at  89°  C.  (192.2°  F.),  and  soluble  in  450  parts  of  cold  and 
less  of  boiling  water,  forming  a tasteless  solution  of  neutral  reaction.  Tetronal  is  readily  soluble 
in  alcohol  and  ether. 

Action  and  Uses. — When  sulphonal  was  made  in  1888  by  Kast,  he  stated  that  in 
dogs  it  produced  sleep  and  disturbed  muscular  co-ordinations,  but  in  man  sleep  only, 
which  he  declared  to  be  exactly  natural  sleep,  and  was  prevented  by  pain,  mental  excite- 
ment, or  outward  influences.  He  noted  that  it  was  neither  anassthetic  nor  analgesic. 
According  to  him;  it  did  not  aggravate  the  distress  of  cardiac  or  aortic  disease  or  affect 
the  composition  of  the  blood  ( Centralb.  f Tlier .,  vi.  328).  Rabbas  confirmed  these  state- 
ments, and  remarked  the  slow  development  of  the  action  of  the  medicine  caused  by  its 
imperfect  solubility  (ibid.,  p.  330),  and  the  prolonged  sleep  produced  by  it.  He  and 
other  observers,  as  Cramer  and  Egasse  (Bull,  de  Therap .,  cxvi.  212),  stated  that  it  does 
not  disturb  the  respiration  or  the  circulation,  but  produces  a sort  of  locomotor  ataxia ; 
and  Gamier  also  observed  its  tendency  to  cause  unsteadiness  of  the  gait  and  a condition 
resembling  drunkenness,  as  well  as  its  diuretic  action,  while  others  met  with  instances  of 
vomiting  and  diarrhoea  occasioned  by  it.  Henocque  explained  the  sluggishness  and  sopor 
it  produced  by  its  hindering  the  conversion  of  arterial  into  venous  blood  (Bull,  et  Mem. 
Soc.  therap .,  1889,  p.  23),  and,  in  opposition  to  Kast,  charged  it  with  the  destruction  of 
the  red  blood-disks.  Longer  experience  brought  to  light  certain  other  untoward  effects 
of  the  medicine.  Thus  it  was  found  liable  to  cause  eruptions  on  the  skin,  usually  of  an 
erythematous  nature  (Therap.  Gaz .,  xiii.  25;  Practitioner , xliii.  376);  it  has  produced 
cyanosis ; reduced  the  patient  to  extreme  weakness  and  apathy  with  a pulse  of  38,  or, 
again,  a frequent  pulse  ; occasioned  aphasia  (Kirch),  hallucinations  (Bornemann),  or  pro- 
longed torpor  (Med.  Record , xxxv.  348),  with  vomiting  of  several  days’  duration  (Therap. 
Gaz.,  xiii.  247,  288).  Griffith  has  called  particular  attention  to  its  “ unpleasant  effects;” 
its  occasional  slowly  developed  or  unduly  prolonged  action  ; the  uncertainty  of  its  dose  ; its 
threatening  secondary  symptoms  ; and  the  absolute  failure,  at  times,  of  its  hypnotic  action 
(Therap.  Gaz.,  xiii.  323).  Browning  has  made  a similar  report,  and  noticed,  like  others, 
priapism  as  an  occasional  effect  of  the  medicine  (Med.  Record,  xxxvi.  62).  Rehm  (Bull. 


5 UL  PHONAL. 


1537 


de  Ther .,  cxvii.  381)  and  Hagart  ( Lancet , Oct.  1889,  p.  777)  have  observed  decidedly 
alarming  examples  of  its  action.  Knoblauch  thus  summarizes  the  objections  to  its  use : 
It  causes  intoxication,  staggering,  paresis  of  the  limbs,  grinding  of  the  teeth,  derange- 
ment of  speech,  vertigo,  malaise,  vomiting,  and  diarrhoea ; the  duration  of  the  sleep  it 
causes  cannot  be  foreseen,  nor  the  appropriate  dose  for  any  given  case.  For  these  reasons 
he  opines  that  Marandon  was  not  far  wrong  when  he  declared  sulphonal  a poison  and  not  a 
medicine  ( Ther . Monatsh .,  iii.  501.  Compare  Folsom,  Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour..  1890,  p. 
31.)  The  duration  of  the  sleep,  as  well  as  the  other  effects  of  it,  is  variable.  The  case 
is  related  of  a man  who  after  taking  a large  (but  uncertain)  dose  of  sulphonal  slept  almost 
continuously  for  four  days,  and  awaked  feeling  refreshed  and  well  (Med.  Record , xxxvi. 
560).  Again,  a man  with  Bright’s  disease,  cystitis,  and  repeated  attacks  of  erysipelas  of 
the  face  took  in  the  course  of  eleven  months  Gm.  300  (say  ^x)  of  sulphonal,  not  only 
without  injury,  but  with  great  advantage  ( Therap . Monatsh .,  iii.  459).  Still  more  strik- 
ing is  the  case  of  a man  who  with  suicidal  intent  swallowed  3 ounces  of  the  compound. 
Coma  succeeded  and  lasted  for  six  days,  but  recovery  followed  (Jour.  Amer.  Med.  Assoc., 
xvii.  421).  A case  of  death  from  its  use  is  the  following  : A feeble,  nervous  woman,  who, 
after  a physical  and  mental  shock,  became  melancholic  and  hysterical,  took  30  grains 
of  the  drug  within  one  and  a quarter  hours.  She  slept  for  twelve  hours  deeply,  and 
then  less  so  for  as  many  hours  more.  Excitement  followed  cyanosis  and  feeble  breath- 
ing, although  the  pulse  remained  good,  and  death  forty  hours  after  the  sulphonal  had  been 
taken  (Med.  News , lv.  166).  Breslauer  has  reported  five  fatal  cases  due  to  this  medicine 
( Lancet , Apr.  4, 1891)  ; Robert  one  (Centralbl.  f.  cl.  Med.,  1892,  p.  185)  ; Beinfuss  another 
(Therap.  Gaz.,  xvi.  318);  Geill  several  in  which  only  the  fatal  termination  was  lacking 
(ibid,  p.  533),  and  S.  Solis-Cohen  three  instances  of  a partial  suppression  of  urine  due  to 
the  medicine  (Med.  News.,  lxiii.  239). 

Sulphonal  is  a hypnotic  and  sedative  of  spinal  irritation,  resembling  chloral,  but  is  less 
apt  than  it  to  affect  the  heart.  Owing  to  its  slow  solubility  its  action  is  gradual,  and 
when  the  sleep  it  produces  has  ended  there  is  apt  to  remain  a dull  and  sluggish  state  of 
body  and  mind.  It  is  less  liable  to  bring  on  sleep  when  there  is  pain  or  mental  excite- 
ment, especially  in  persons  addicted  to  the  use  of  narcotics.  It  is  held  by  some  (Gamier) 
to  be,  as  a hypnotic,  superior  to  paraldehyde,  urethane,  chloral,  and  hypnone  ; and  Mabon 
found  (Therap.  Gaz.,  xiii.  403)  that  among  the  insane  it  produced  a “ calmer,  longer,  and 
more  refreshing  sleep  than  any  other  hypnotic.”  (See  Conolly  Norman,  Dublin  Jour. 
Med.  Sci.,  Jan.  1889  ; Flint,  Therap.  Gaz.,  xiii.  37  ; Carpenter,  Med.  Record,  xxxv.  239 ; 
Cramer,  Med.  News,  liii.  240  ; Landis,  University  Med.  Mag.,  i.  289  ; Smith,  Lancet , Nov. 
1889,  p.  1051  ; Sutherland,  ibid. , p.  1053  ; Umpfenbach,  Therap.  Monatsh.,  iii.  255  ; Hay, 
Amer.  Jour.  Med.  Sci.,  xcviii.  34  ; Lojacono,  Therap.  Gaz.,  xiii.  485  ; Pachoud  and  Clairet, 
Centralb.  f.  Ther.,  vii.  469.)  Nearly  all  of  the  physicians  here  named  agree  that  it  is  only 
in  excited  states  of  insanity,  whether  melancholia,  mania,  or  dementia,  that  the  medicine 
is  an  efficient  palliative,  while  Dehio  and  others  have  noted  serious  dangers  arising  from 
its  continued  use  (Centralbl.  f Ther.,  viii.  594).  On  the  other  hand,  it  has  been  found 
of  little  service  in  the  delirium  of  typhoid  fever  and  in  hectic  fever.  It  has  been  some- 
times employed  to  allay  the  excited  action  of  the  heart  in  valvular  disease  of  that  organ 
and  in  angina  pectoris,  but  Joachim  and  others  have  warned  against  the  danger  it  involves 
of  lessening  the  heart’s  power  (Therap.  Monatsh.,  iii.  226).  (For  further  illustrations  of 
the  use  of  sulphonal  as  a hypnotic  see  Lauder  Brunton,  Therap.  Gaz.,  xiv.  pp.  623,  628.) 

According  to  Jeffries  (Med.  News,  lvi.  275),  sulphonal  u is  able,  at  times,  to  suppress 
promptly  choreic  motions;”  Casarelli  claims  that  the  medicine  is  useful  in  diabetes  (Cen- 
tralbl. f Therap.,  viii.  71)  ; and  Boetrich  that  in  doses  of  7 or  8 grains  it  controls  night- 
sweats  (Therap.  Monatsh .,  iii.  123). 

The  average  dose  of  sulphonal  for  adults  is  Gm.  1-1.3  (gr.  xv-xx)  ; for  children,  Gm. 
0.20-0.3  (gr.  iij — v).  It  should  be  given  an  hour  or  two  before  bedtime  in  hot  water, 
soup,  or  milk.  The  dose  should  not  be  increased  unless  the  action  of  the  medicine  has 
proved  inadequate  and  after  a sufficient  interval  has  elapsed. 

Trional  and  Tetronal  are  so  nearly  alike  in  their  action  and  uses  that  they  may  be 
described  together.  They  are  efficient  hypnotics  when  sleeplessness  results  from  nervous 
disease,  whether  functional  or  organic,  but  are  less  so  when  it  is  caused  by  pain  or  great 
mental  excitement.  When  sleep  ensues,  it  generally  does  so  within  fifteen  or  twenty 
minutes.  Some  observers  assign  to  these  preparations  a superiority  over  sulphonal  and 
chloral,  while  others  have  noted  no  difference  in  their  action.  It  is,  however,  stated  that 
when  one  of  the  groups  has  begun  to  lose  its  effect  by  repetition,  the  substitution  of 
another  will  renew  the  original  impression.  No  injurious  consequences  of  either  have  been 
97 


1538 


SULPHUR. 


reported.  According  to  Koppers,  trional  diminishes  night-sweats.  The  dose  of  trional  or 
of  tetronal  is  stated  to  he  Gm.  1—4  (gr.  xv-lx).  It  should  generally  be  given  in  the 
evening,  and  repeated  in  an  hour  if  the  proper  effects  do  not  occur. 

SULPHUR,  U.  S.,  Br.,  B.  G.— Sulphur. 

Eoufre , Fr. ; Schwe/el,  G. 

Symbol  S.  Atomicity  bivalent,  quadrivalent,  and  sexivalent.  Atomic  weight  31.98. 
Official  Forms  of  Sulphur. — 1.  Sulphur  (Sulfur)  sublimatum,  U.  S.,  Br., 
P.  G.;  Flores  sulphuris. — Sublimed  sulphur,  Flowers  of  sulphur,  E. ; Soufre  sublime, 
Fleur  (Creme)  de  soufre,  Fr. ; Schwefelblumen,  Schwefelbliithe,  G. — Sulphur  sublimed 
and  condensed  in  powder. 

2.  Sulphur  lotum,  U.  S. ; Sulfur  depuratum,  s.  Flores  sulfuris  loti,  P.  G. — Washed 
sulphur,  E.  ; Soufre  lave,  Fr. ; Gereinigter  Schwefel,  G. — Sublimed  sulphur  thoroughly 
washed  with  water. 

3.  Sulphur  (Sulfur)  prjecipitatum,  U.  S.,  Br.,  P.  G. ; Lac  (Magisterium)  sulphuris 
— Precipitated  sulphur,  Milk  of  sulphur,  E.  ; Soufre  precipite,  Magistere  (Lait)  de  soufre, 
Fr.;  Schwefelmilch,  G. 

Origin. — Sulphur  is  a constituent  of  the  volatile  oils  of  mustard,  garlic,  and  asafetida, 
and  of  albumen  and  other  proteids.  It  is  found  in  many  mineral  waters  as  hydrogen 
sulphide  and  in  the  form  of  sulphates,  and  is  widely  distributed  in  the  mineral  kingdom 
in  combination  with  metals,  forming  iron  pyrites,  FeS2,  galena,  PbS,  blende,  ZnS,  black 
antimony,  Sb2S3,  cinnabar,  HgS,  and  other  sulphides,  and  as  sulphate  in  gypsum,  heavy 
spar,  and  many  other  minerals.  But  sulphur  is  most  abundantly  obtained  from  native 
sulphur , which  is  found  in  volcanic  countries.  Beds  of  native  sulphur  have  been  dis- 
covered in  California,  Nevada,  Utah,  and  other  parts  of  the  Western  United  States,  in 
Mexico,  the  West  Indies,  etc.  ; the  chief  supply  of  sulphur,  however,  comes  from  Italy, 
where  extensive  beds  are  worked  near  Latera  and  Scrofano,  and  from  the  provinces  of 
Girgenti,  Caltanisetta,  Catania,  and  Palermo  in  the  island  of  Sicily.  Sulphur-beds  on  the 
surface  of  the  earth  are  called  solfatare,  and  when  they  are  found  underground  are  known 
as  solfare.  The  latter  are  the  most  important,  and  yield  nearly  the  whole  of  the  com- 
mercial sulphur. 

Extraction  and  Purification. — Sulphur  is  obtained  in  Sicily  by  melting  it  from 
the  mineral  in  semicircular  pits  called  calcaroni,  which  have  a diameter  of  about  30  feet 
and  a depth  of  about  8 feet,  and  are  internally  covered  with  a layer  of  gypsum.  The  bot- 
tom is  inclined  toward  one  side,  which  has  an  opening,  closed  during  the  operation  with 
a thin  wall  of  gypsum.  The  pit  is  filled  with  the  mineral,  and  this  is  heaped  up  above  so 
as  to  form  an  obtuse  cone,  the  whole  being  covered  first  with  a layer  of  powdered  sulphur 
ore,  and  finally  with  a stratum  of  spent  ore  in  powder.  Fire  is  now  applied  to  the  heap, 
and  after  an  hour  all  openings  are  closed  until,  after  about  nine  days,  the  melted  sulphur 
begins  to  collect  on  the  floor  of  the  pit.  Through  a small  opening  made  into  the  gypsum 
wall  the  melted  sulphur  is  removed  two  or  three  times  a day  and  run  into  moistened 
moulds  made  of  poplar  wood,  where  it  solidifies  in  the  form  of  blunt  pyramids,  in  which 
condition  it  enters  commerce.  The  rough  sulphur  thus  obtained  contains  from  3 to  4 parts 
of  earthy  impurities,  which  are  removed  by  distilling  the  sulphur  from  iron  retorts  and 
conducting  the  vapors  into  large  brick  chambers,  where  they  condense  in  the  form  of  a 
fine  powder,  which  is  from  time  to  time  removed  before  the  condensing-chamber  becomes 
too  hot,  and  constitutes  sublimed  sulphur.  If,  however,  the  operation  is  not  interrupted, 
the  brick  walls  of  the  chamber  become  hot  enough  to  melt  the  sulphur,  which  is  run  into 
wooden  moulds.  The  cylindrical  pieces  thus  obtained  enter  commerce  as  brimstone  or  roll 
sulphur. 

In  Nevada  the  sulphur  ore  is  placed  in  upright  cast-iron  retorts,  in  shape  resembling  a 
blast-furnace  ; superheated  steam  is  admitted  and  the  pressure  raised  to  about  70  pounds 
to  the  square  inch  ; the  pressure  is  slowly  reduced  to  50  pounds  as  the  melted  sulphur 
flows  through  a grate  into  a receiving-pan,  where  mechanical  impurities  are  allowed  to 
subside,  the  sulphur  being  run  into  large  cylindrical  moulds,  and  after  cooling  broken  into 
irregular  lumps  before  it  is  refined. 

Sulphur  is  also  obtained  from  pyrites  by  a process  of  roasting  in  heaps  or  in  suitable 
furnaces  built  for  the  purpose,  a portion  of  the  sulphur  being  burned  in  the  operation. 

Preparation. — Sublimed  Sulphur.  The  process  by  which  this  is  procured  has 
been  described  above.  The  other  official  forms  of  sulphur  are  prepared  as  follows  : 

Washed  Sulphur.  Sublimed  sulphur  100  Gm. ; ammonia-water  10  Cc. ; water  a 


SULPHUR. 


1539 


sufficient  quantity.  Pass  the  sublimed  sulphur  through  a No.  30  sieve,  mix  it 
thoroughly  with  100  Cc.  of  water,  add  10  Cc.  of  ammonia-water,  and  digest  for  three 
days,  agitating  occasionally.  Then  add  100  Cc.  of  water,  transfer  the  mixture  to  a 
muslin  strainer,  and  wash  the  sulphur  with  water  until  the  washings  cease  to  impart  a 
blue  color  to  red  litmus-paper.  Then  allow  it  to  drain,  press  the  residue  strongly,  dry 
it  rapidly  at  a moderate  heat,  and  pass  it  through  a No.  30  sieve. — U.  S.  The  P.  G. 
orders  for  10  parts  of  sublimed  sulphur  7 parts  of  water  and  1 part  of  ammonia-water,  the 
mixture  to  be  macerated  for  a day.  Prolonged  digestion  is  unnecessary  for  the  removal 
of  the  free  acid,  but  it  is  important  that  after  thorough  washing  the  sulphur  be  well  dried 
to  prevent  its  slow  oxidation. 

Precipitated  Sulphur.  Sublimed  sulphur  100  Gm. ; lime  50  Gm. ; hydrochloric 
acid,  water,  each  a sufficient  quantity.  Slake  the  lime,  and  make  it  into  a uniform 
mixture  with  500  Cc.  of  water.  Add  the  sulphur,  previously  well  dried  and  sifted,  mix 
well,  add  1000  Cc.  of  water,  and  heat  the  mixture  to  boiling  over  a fire  for  one  hour, 
stirring  constantly  and  replacing  the  water  lost  by  evaporation.  Then  cover  the  vessel, 
allow  the  contents  to  cool,  pour  off  the  clear  solution,  filter  the  remainder,  and  to  the 
united  liquids  add,  gradually,  hydrochloric  acid  previously  diluted  with  an^equal  vol- 
ume of  water,  until  the  liquid  is  nearly  neutralized,  still  retaining,  however,  an  alka- 
line reaction  and  a yellow  color.  Collect  the  precipitate  on  a strainer,  and  wash  it  with 
water  until  the  washings  are  tasteless  and  cease  to  give  an  acid  reaction  with  litmus-paper. 
Then  dry  it  with  a gentle  heat. — U.  S. 

The  British  Pharmacopoeia  uses  5 oz.  of  sulphur  and  3 oz.  of  slaked  lime,  but  directs 
the  decanted  and  filtered  solution  to  be  mixed  with  hydrochloric  acid  until  the  mixture 
acquires  an  acid  reaction. 

In  the  processes  described  calcium  thiosulphate  and  sulphide  are  first  produced,  from 
which,  on  the  addition  of  an  acid,  sulphur  is  precipitated.  Both  formulas  direct  too 
large  a quantity  of  lime,  resulting  in  a corresponding  waste  of  hydrochloric  acid,  but  the 
second  formula  employs  nearly  the  theoretical  quantity  of  sulphur.  In  order  to  obtain 
good  results  it  is  advisable  to  dissolve  in  the  lime  as  much  sulphur  as  can  be  taken  up, 
the  reaction  taking  place  as  follows : 3Ca(OH)2  -f  6S2  yields  2CaS5  -f  CaS203  -f-  3H20. 
Therefore,  168  parts  of  burned  lime  or  222  parts  of  slaked  lime  require  384  parts  of  sul- 
phur, or  50  parts  of  the  calcium  compounds  need  respectively  115  and  87  parts  of  sul- 
phur. It  is,  however,  advisable  to  employ  an  excess  of  sulphur,  the  undissolved  portion 
of  which  may  be  utilized  in  a subsequent  operation  ; for  1 pound  of  lime  2f  or  2?  pounds, 
and  for  1 pound  of  slaked  lime  li  pounds,  of  sulphur  should  be  used.  The  resulting 
liquid  has  a dark  orange-red  color.  Diluted  hydrochloric  acid  should  now  be  added  in 
a thin  stream  and  with  continued  stirring,  when  the  calcium  pentasulphide  will  be 
decomposed,  calcium  chloride  remaining  in  solution,  while  sulphur  is  precipitated  and 
hydrogen  sulphide  is  liberated,  which  should  be  carried  off  through  a chimney.  This 
reaction  occurs  according  to  the  equation  2CaS5  -f-  4HC1  = 2CaCl2  -f-  4S2  4-  2H2S.  If 
the  acid  be  added  with  the  precaution  that  the  liquid  retains  its  alkaline  reaction,  calcium 
hydrosulphide,  Ca(HS)2,  will  remain  in  solution,  and  with  it  any  arsenic  which  may  have 
been  present  in  the  sulphur  or  in  the  acid  ; but  in  the  presence  of  iron  black  ferrous 
sulphide  will  be  precipitated  with  the  sulphur,  and  impart  to  it  a dark-gray  color.  The 
latter  impurity  may  be  easily  removed  by  washing  first  with  water,  followed  by  dilute 
hydrochloric  acid,  and  this  again  by  water. 

Operating  in  this  manner,  as  directed  by  the  U.  S.  P.,  the  calcium  thiosulphate  will  not 
be  -decomposed.  The  further  addition  of  acid  will  decompose  this  compound,  sulphur 
being  liberated,  together  with  sulphur  dioxide,  and  the  latter,  by  reacting  with  the  hydro- 
gen sulphide,  will  liberate  an  additional  quantity  of  sulphur,  with  the  formation  of  water. 
The  result  of  the  entire  complicated  reaction  is  expressed  by  the  equation  2CaS5  -f 
CaS203  -f  6HC1  = 6S2  + 3CaCl2  -f  3H20.  It  will  be  observed  that  by  acidulating  the 
solution  of  lime  and  sulphur,  as  directed  by  the  British  Pharmacopoeia,  a larger  amount 
of  precipitated  sulphur  is  obtained ; but  it  was  shown  by  Fordos  and  Gelis  (1851),  and 
by  Berthelot,  that  that  resulting  from  the  thiosulphate  is  soft  and  only  partially  soluble 
in  carbon  disulphide.  Arsenic,  if  present  in  the  lime  solution,  will  separate  as  yellow 
I arsenic  sulphide.  If  the  hydrochloric  acid  is  replaced  by  sulphuric  acid,  the  precipitated 
sulphur  is  contaminated  with  calcium  sulphate : it  has  been  proposed  to  restrict  the 
appellation  lac  sulphuris  to  this  preparation,  which  is  often  demanded  in  Great  Britain  as 
milk  of  sulphur. 

Properties. — Sulphur  exists  in  several  modifications,  and  is  either  crystalline  and 
soluble  in  carbon  disulphide,  amorphous  and  insoluble  in  the  same  liquid,  or  soft  or  oily  at 


1540 


SULPHUR. 


common  temperatures,  and  either  soluble  or  insoluble  in  this  menstruum.  When  sulphur 
is  fused  and  kept  near  the  temperature  of  90°  C.  (194°  F.),  octahedral  or  rhombic  crys- 
tals are  formed,  fusing  at  115°  C.  (239°  F.)  ; but  if  the  crust  which  forms  on  cooling  is 
broken  and  the  liquid  sulphur  poured  out,  the  vessel  will  afterward  be  filled  with  long 
oblique  prisms,  which  melt  to  a yellowish  liquid  at  120°  C.  (248°  F.).  On  gradually 
increasing  the  heat  to  near  180°  C.  (356°  F.)  sulphur  becomes  brown,  and  ultimately 
black,  opaque,  and  very  viscid.  If  the  heat  be  continued,  the  mass  liquefies  again  at 
260°  C.  (500°  F.),  and  at  about  450°  C.  (842°  F.)  is  converted  into  orange-brown  vapors. 
On  agitating  sublimed  sulphur  with  carbon  disulphide  about  two-thirds  of  it  are  dis- 
solved, while  the  remainder  is  amorphous  and  remains  undissolved.  The  different  varieties 
of  sulphur  differ  also  in  specific  gravity,  that  of  amorphous  and  soft  sulphur  being  1.96, 
of  prismatic  sulphur  1.98,  and  of  octahedral  sulphur  2.05  ; this  last  variety  is  more  stable 
than  the  other  two,  which  are  under  various  circumstances  converted  into  it.  Heated  in 
the  air,  sulphur  ignites  at  about  150°  C.  (302°  F.),  and  burns  with  a blue  flame  to  sul- 
phurous anhydride  or  sulphur  dioxide,  S02.  This  gas  always  contains  a small  quantity 
of  the  trioxide  or  sulphuric  anhydride,  S03,  according  to  Lunge  and  Salathe  (1883),  if 
the  combustion  takes  place  in  dry  air,  the  amount  being  2.5  or  2.8  per  cent.,  and  the 
quantity  being  increased  in  the  presence  of  ferric  oxide.  The  two  oxides  named  are  the 
only  oxygen  compounds  which  have  been  obtained  in  the  isolated  state,  though  several 
others  are  known  in  combination,  of  which  the  most  important  is  thiosulphuric  acid. 
(See  Sodii  Thiosulphas.)  The  other  oxygen  compounds  of  sulphur  are  as  yet  only  of 
scientific  interest : they  are  hyposulpliurous  (also  called  liydrosulphurous ) (H2S02),  ditlii- 
onic , trith  ionic,  tetratliionic , and  pentatliionic  acids , and  the  last  four  contain,  in  combina- 
tion with  a bivalent  basylous  radical,  6 atoms  of  oxygen,  and  respectively  2,  3,  4,  and  5 
atoms  of  sulphur.  These  four  acids,  when  liberated  from  their  salts,  are  readily  decom- 
posed into  sulphuric  and  sulphurous  acids,  the  last  three  separating  also  sulphur. 

Sulphur  combines  also  with  most  of  the  non-metallic  and  metallic  elements,  forming 
sulphides,  the  most  important  of  which  to  the  pharmacist  are  the  sulphides  of  antimony, 
mercury,  iron,  potassium,  ammonium,  and  hydrogen.  When  treated  at  an  elevated  tem- 
perature with  volatile  and  fixed  oils,  it  dissolves,  and  forms  with  the  fats  compounds 
which  were  formerly  known  as  balsams  of  sidplmr.  Sulphur  is  insoluble  in  water,  but 
dissolves  in  hot  solutions  of  the  fixed  alkalies  and  alkaline  earths,  forming  sulphides,  and 
is  somewhat  soluble  in  hot  absolute  alcohol,  ether,  chloroform,  oil  of  turpentine,  benzin, 
and  benzene,  being  deposited  on  cooling  in  crystals.  Carbon  disulphide  promptly  dis- 
solves a portion  of  it,  but  leaves  a residue  of  insoluble  sulphur,  which  may  be  dissolved 
by  a boiling  solution  of  alkali  hydroxide. 

Sublimed  sulphur  is  a yellow  or  somewhat  greenish-yellow,  slightly  gritty  powder, 
which  is  free  from  odor  and  taste,  or  generally  has  a slight  sulphurous  odor  and  a faint 
acidulous  taste,  and  has  a slight  acid  reaction  to  litmus.  To  heat  and  solvents  it  shows 
the  behavior  described  above. 

Washed  sulphur  has  the  same  appearance  and  behavior  as  the  preceding,  except  that 
it  is  entirely  inodorous  and  nearly  tasteless,  and  does  not  change  the  color  of  litmus-paper, 
which  properties  are  demanded  by  the  Br.  P.  for  its  sulphur  sublimatum. 

Precipitated  sulphur  is  a yellowish-white  or  grayish,  very  fine  powder,  free  from 
grittiness  and  from  the  odor  of  hydrogen  sulphide,  and  nearly  tasteless.  When  exam- 
ined under  the  microscope  it  is  seen  to  consist  of  opaque  globules  which  are  free  from 
crystalline  matter.  It  is  not  altered  on  exposure  to  air  when  kept  dry,  and  on  fusion  it 
is  converted  into  ordinary  sulphur. 

Tests. — Water  agitated  with  washed  or  precipitated  sulphur  ( U.  S.),  or  these  varieties 
of  sulphur  moistened  with  water  (P.  G .),  should  not  redden  blue  litmus-paper;  the  last 
is  the  more  delicate  test.  Pure  sulphur  should  completely  evaporate  by  heat,  and  when 
ignited  in  the  air  should  burn  without  leaving  any  fixed  residue  (clay,  gypsum,  etc.). 
The  pharmacopoeias  permit  a trace  (0.1  to  0.5  per  cent.)  of  fixed  residue  for  sublimed  and 
washed,  but  none  for  precipitated,  sulphur.  The  latter,  if  precipitated  by  sulphuric  acid, 
is  more  readily  miscible  with  water  than  pure  precipitated  sulphur,  and  leaves  on  ignition 
a large  amount  of  fixed  residue.  For  the  detection  of  this  and  other  fixed  impurities  the 
following  additional  but  unnecessary  tests  may  be  employed : If  precipitated  sulphur  be 
boiled  with  diluted  hydrochloric  acid,  the  liquid  filtered,  and  the  filtrate  divided  into  two 
portions,  one  portion  should  not  be  precipitated  by  test-solution  of  barium  chloride, 
and  the  other  portion  should  not  be  rendered  more  than  slightly  turbid  by  test-solution 
of  ammonium  carbonate  with  excess  of  water  of  ammonia  (absence  of  calcium  sul- 
phate). When  digested  successively  with  water,  hydrochloric  acid,  and  water  of 


SULPHUR. 


1541 


ammonia,  these  liquids,  after  filtration,  should  leave  no  residue  on  evaporation  (absence 
of  alkalies,  alkaline  earths,  or  sulphide).  Sulphur  obtained  from  pyrites  usually  contains 
arsenic,  which  is  most  conveniently  detected,  unless  present  in  very  minute  quantities, 
by  digesting  it  with  20  parts  ( U.  S.,  P.  G .)  of  ammonia-water,  filtering,  and  adding 
hydrochloric  acid,  when  yellow  arsenic  sulphide  will  be  precipitated  ; on  the  further  addi- 
tion of  hydrogen  sulphide,  arsenous  acid,  if  present,  will  yield  a yellow  precipitate  of 
arsenic  sulphide.  While  arsenous  acid  may  be  present  in  sublimed  and  in  washed  sul- 
phur, it  is  obvious  from  the  above  explanation  of  the  process  that  precipitated  sulphur 
may  be  contaminated  with  the  sulphide,  but  not  with  the  oxide  of  arsenic.  Very  minute 
quantities  of  this  metal  are  best  detected  by  Marsh’s  test.  Selenium,  which  is  sometimes 
present  in  sulphur,  is  detected  by  “ boiling  0.5  Gm.  of  the  sample  with  a solution  of  0.5 
Gm.  of  potassium  cyanide  in  5 Cc.  of  water,  and,  if  after  filtration,  the  clear  liquid  be 
acidulated  with  hydrochloric  acid,  it  should  not  assume  a reddish  color,  even  after  standing 
an  hour  (absence  of  selenium).” — U.  S.  Precipitated  sulphur  frequently  has  a slight 
odor  of  hydrogen  sulphide,  which  is  more  apparent  on  being  warmed ; such  sulphur 
acquires  a more  or  less  black  color  when  agitated  with  a solution  of  lead  acetate ; the 
pharmacopoeias  give  no  chemical  test,  almost  complete  freedom  from  odor  being  sufficient. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  use  of  powdered  sulphur  for  limiting  fermentation  has 
come  down  from  a remote  period,  and  it  has  also  long  been  used  for  destroying  parasitic 
fungi  upon  plants,  as  well  as  parasitic  insects  upon  plants  and  animals.  Recent  experi- 
ments appear  to  show  that  these  effects,  as  well  as  others  which  are  usually  attributed  to 
sulphur  are  in  reality  due  to  the  sulphurous  and  sulphuric  acids  with  which  it  is  nearly 
always  impregnated  or  which  form  by  the  action  of  the  oxygen  of  the  air  upon  it.  The 
former,  produced  by  the  combustion  of  sulphur,  is  habitually  used  for  disinfecting  rooms, 
ships,  etc.  where  infectious  or  contagious  diseases  have  existed. 

In  doses  of  from  20  to  40  grains  sulphur  occasions  soft  stools,  generally  without 
colic,  and  the  flatus  discharged  has  the  odor  of  hydrogen  sulphide.  The  greater  part  of 
the  sulphur  passes  unchanged.  When  small  doses  are  repeated  day  after  day,  the  exha- 
lations of  the  lungs  and  skin  have  a sulphurous  smell,  the  linen  is  sometimes  stained 
yellow  by  the  perspiration,  and  silver  articles  worn  near  the  skin  are  blackened  by  the 
formation  of  silver  sulphide.  The  expired  air  also,  the  urine,  and  the  milk  contain 
combinations  of  sulphur.  It  has  happened,  when  a course  of  mercury  followed  the 
administration  of  sulphur,  that  parts  of  the  skin  have  been  discolored  by  sulphide  of 
mercury.  Sulphur  may  continue  to  be  used  for  a long  time  and  in  full  doses  without 
untoward  effects,  but,  on  the  other  hand,  a case  has  been  recorded  of  a person  who  took 
120  grains  of  sulphur  in  wine  four  or  five  times  a day,  and  who  on  the  sixth  day  was 
seized  with  nausea,  bloody  diarrhoea,  cramps  in  the  legs,  fever,  dysury,  etc.,  and  for 
several  years  suffered  from  irritable  stomach  (Giacomini,  Mat.  Med .).  There  can  be  little 
doubt  that  these  peculiar  symptoms  were  occasioned  by  a great  excess  of  free  acids  in 
the  sulphur,  for  those  acids  have  been  found  to  be  present  in  the  proportion  of  from  10 
to  30  parts  in  10,000  parts  of  ordinary  sublimed  sulphur.  They  are  the  chief  source  of 
the  increased  proportion  of  sulphates  found  in  the  urine  of  those  who  use  sulphur  medi- 
cinally. In  another  case  a man  took  1 ounce  of  sublimed  sulphur,  and  repeated  the  dose 
twenty-four  hours  later.  The  symptoms  comprised  prostration,  partial  insensibility,  head- 
ache, fever,  sulphurous  breath,  contracted  pupils,  clammy  perspiration,  griping,  vomiting, 
purging  of  bloody  mucus,  and  bloody  urine.  Recovery  took  place  in  a week  (Vaughn, 
British  Med.  Jour .,  Nov.  3.  1888).  The  skin  appears  to  absorb  it  in  some  degree,  since 
those  who  are  subjected  to  frictions  with  sulphur  ointment  discharge  fetid  gas  from  the 
bowels.  The  case  is  recorded  of  a man  who  for  dandruff  of  the  scalp  used  an  ointment 
containing  10  percent,  of  sulphur.  He  suffered  from  occipital  headache,  giddiness,  faint- 
ness, pallor,  general  debility,  cold  perspiration,  and  a small  and  frequent  pulse.  On 
abstaining  from  the  use  of  the  ointment  and  using  hot  baths  he  recovered  (Med.  News , li. 
596).  Dolan  states  that  he  found  sulphur  in  the  milk,  sweat,  and  urine  of  persons  tak- 
ing it,  and  that  it  acts  as  a mild  purgative  on  nursing  infants  through  the  mother’s  milk 
( Practitioner , xxvii.  170). 

The  most  important  therapeutic  application  of  sulphur  is  to  the  cure  of  scabies.  As 
already  stated,  it  was  used  for  this  purpose  in  ancient  times.  Within  the  last  generation 
its  efficacy  has  been  greatly  enhanced  by  softening  the  patient’s  skin  by  means  of  warm 
baths  before  the  sulphur  is  applied,  and  by  associating  the  latter  with  some  substance 
which,  with  the  aid  of  friction,  mechanically  breaks  up  the  burrows  of  the  acari  and 
brings  the  insects  under  the  poisonous  influence  of  the  sulphur.  Some  writers,  even 
among  the  most  recent,  distinctly  assert  that  sulphur  is  not  efficient,  per  se,  and  can  cure 


1542 


SULPHUR. 


the  itch  only  when  the  presence  of  a free  or  carbonated  alkali  favors  the  formation  of  a 
sulphide,  which  is  the  true  agent  of  the  cure,  and  hence  that  all  sulphurous  itch  oint- 
ments should  contain  such  an  alkaline  ingredient.  Others  affirm  that  the  sulphur  in  an 
ointment  only  acts  mechanically  by  breaking  up  the  burrows  of  the  itch  insect,  while  the 
sulphides  destroy  its  life  These  writers  appear  to  have  overlooked  the  presence  and 
potency  of  sulphurous  acid  in  sulphur  ointment,  as  well  as  to  have  forgotten  the  long 
period  in  which  simple  sulphur  ointment  continued  to  be  an  efficient  cure  for  the  itch. 
The  greatest  dermatologist  of  the  age  was  not,  apparently,  of  their  opinion.  Hebra,  after 
referring  to  the  comparative  value  of  several  insecticide  agents,  says  of  sulphur : “ It 
was  found  to  be  equally  effectual  whether  it  was  used  alone  or  in  combination  with 
potassa,  soda,  or  lime.”  He  also  distinctly  points  out  the  advantage  of  there  being  mixed 
with  the  sulphur  some  coarse  and  insoluble  substance  to  mechanically  rupture  the  bur- 
rows of  the  acarus  and  permit  the  true  insecticide  to  reach  at  once  the  insect  and  its  eggs. 
But  as  many  of  the  substances  used  for  that  purpose  irritate  the  skin,  causing  artificial 
vesicular  and  pustular  eruptions,  those  remedies  only  should  be  employed  which,  without 
irritating  the  skin,  will  destroy  the  itch  insect  and  its  ova.  In  hospitals  this  precaution 
may  be  less  imperative  than  in  private  practice,  but  in  all  cases  irritating  ointments 
should  be  applied  to  those  parts  only,  and  especially  the  hands  and  the  feet,  which  are 
distinctly  the  seat  of  the  parasitic  eruption. 

The  first  compound  sulphur  ointment  was  that  of  Helmerich  (1812-13),  and  consisted 
of  2 parts  of  sulphur,  1 of  carbonate  of  potash,  and  8 of  lard,  which  was  said  to  cure 
the  itch  in  eighteen  hours  when  applied  by  vigorous  and  repeated  friction,  aided  by  warm 
baths.  The  method  was  revived  in  1844  by  Hebra,  whose  perfected  formula  was  as 
follows:  B.  Flor.  sulphuris,  01.  fagi  vel  cadini,  aa  ^vj  ; Saponis  viridis,  Adipis,  aa  Oj ; 
Cretae,  ^iv. — M.  He,  however,  employed  successfully  a much  simpler  preparation) 
made  of  equal  parts  of  flowers  of  sulphur  and  powdered  soap,  reduced  to  a semi-fluid 
mass  with  water.  These  agents  effect  a cure  in  two  or  three  days  when  duly  supple- 
mented by  warm  baths.  Hardy  reduced  the  time  of  treatment  to  two  hours.  The 
patient  was  first  rubbed  for  half  an  hour  with  soft  soap,  then  placed  in  a warm  bath  for 
half  an  hour  while  the  skin  was  again  thoroughly  rubbed,  after  which  he  was  vigorously 
anointed  with  Helmerich’s  ointment  or  with  one  composed  of  1 part  of  potassium  car- 
bonate, 2 parts  of  sublimed  sulphur,  and  12  parts  of  lard.  The  method  variously  ascribed 
to  Bourguignon  and  to  Vlemingkx  consisted  in  the  use  of  the  following  lotion  : R.  Calcis 
vivae  lb.  j ; Sulphuris  citrini  lb.  ij.  Boil  with  20  pints  of  water  until  reduction  to  12 
pints.  When  cold,  filter.  The  patient  is  immersed  in  a warm  bath  for  half  an  hour, 
then  rubbed  with  flannel  cloths  and  potash  soap,  and  finally  remains  for  another  half  hour 
in  the  bath.  During  the  third  half  hour  he  is  again  rubbed  vigorously  with  flannel  dipped 
in  the  solution  of  calcium  sulphide,  and  passes  a fourth  half  hour  in  the  bath.  Any  par- 
ticles of  sulphur  adhering  to  the  skin  may  be  washed  off  with  cold  water.  This  completes 
the  cure.  Behrund,  in  the  Berlin  Hospital,  uses  the  following  : Sublimed  sulphur,  8 parts ; 
liquid  tar  8;  soft  soap  16;  lanolin  16;  and  powdered  pumice  5 parts.  The  objection  to 
these  methods  consists  in  the  harshness  of  the  application  and  the  artificial  eruptions 
they  excite. 

Sulphur  is  useful  in  other  diseases  of  the  skin,  and  especially  in  acne , alopecia  pityrodes, 
sycosis,  and  tinea  versicolor , and  in  certain  cases  of  psoriasis.  In  the  last-named  affection, 
unless  very  circumscribed,  all  sulphurous  applications  are  painful  and  often  aggravate  the 
disease.  In  tinea  versicolor  sulphur  baths  and  the  internal  use  of  sulphur  waters  should 
be  conjoined.  In  the  different  forms  of  acne  the  seat  of  the  eruption  should  every  night 
be  bathed  with  warm  water  to  soften  the  skin,  after  which  a paste  made  with  flowers  of 
sulphur  and  water,  or  an  ointment  prepared  with  equal  parts  of  sulphur,  potassium 
carbonate  and  simple  ointment,  should  be  smeared  over  the  affected  part  and  allowed  to 
remain  all  night.  In  the  morning  it  should  be  thoroughly  washed  off  with  soft  water, 
with  the  addition,  if  necessary,  of  bran  or  Indian  corn-meal,  but  without  soap.  A simpler 
but  very  efficient  plan  consists  in  dusting  the  skin  with  pure  precipitated  sulphur  every 
night,  after  washing  it  with  soft  water.  Tinea  tonsurans,  or  trichophyton , is  curable  by 
sulphur  ointment  after  the  hair  has  been  closely  cropped.  Chloasma,  or  tinea  versicolor , 
is  sometimes  cured  by  drinking  sulphurous  mineral  waters  and  by  baths  of  the  same,  but 
whether  by  their  local  or  by  their  indirect  action  is  not  easily  determined. 

The  fumes  of  burning  sulphur  (v.  Acidum  Sulphurosum),  conveyed  into  a wooden 
chest  enclosing  all  of  the  patient  but  his  head,  have  sometimes  been  used  in  the  treat- 
ment, especially  of  inveterate  cases,  of  cutaneous  diseases,  such  as  eczema,  psoriasis,  impe- 
tigo, and  prurigo,  and  also  for  the  cure  of  rheumatic  and  scrofulous  affections,  paralysis, 


SULPHUR1S  10  DID  UM. 


1543 


amenorrhcea,  etc.  The  method,  however,  sometimes  gave  rise  to  great  cutaneous  irrita- 
tion, syncope,  etc.,  and  is  now  seldom  if  ever  employed.  Pliny  informs  us  that  sulphur 
ointment  rubbed  upon  the  loins  is  serviceable  in  lumbago  (lib.  xxx.  c.  1.).  This  we 
stated  long  ago  ( Therapeutics , 4th  ed.,  ii.  484),  and  also  that  O’Connor  treated  sciatica  and 
chronic  rheumatism  by  applying  dry  powdered  sulphur  with  friction,  followed  by  the  use 
of  flannel  bandages  ( Lancet , Mar.  1855,  p.  237),  and  that  Geisler  employed  sulphur  oint- 
ment in  a similar  manner  {Jour,  f Phar.  u.  Toxicol .,  etc.,  ii.  227).  A few  years  since 
Fuller,  in  his  work  on  rheumatism  (3d  ed.  p.  472)  states  that  this  mode  of  using  sulphur 
often  subdues  pain  that  has  resisted  other  remedies.  Guenau  de  Mussy,  and  later  on 
Duchesne  and  Cowden,  resorted  to  O’Connor’s  plan  with  success  {Therap.  Gaz .,  xii.  276, 
626;  Barthol,  Cent,  f Therap .,  vii.  666).  Sulphurous  baths,  both  natural  and  artificial, 
have  always  enjoyed  a great  vogue,  especially  in  the  treatment  of  rheumatism  and  gout 
and  of  some  cutaneous  affections.  For  the  former  thermal  waters  are  to  be  preferred,  and 
for  the  latter  partial  douche  baths  are  more  eflicacious  than  general  baths,  and  are  more 
useful  in  limited  than  in  extensive  eruptions.  Sulphurous  mineral  waters  generally  con- 
tain earthy  and  alkaline  sulphates,  which  render  them,  when  taken  internally,  more  or 
less  laxative  and  diuretic,  and  therefore  depurative,  while  the  sulphurous  acid  disengaged 
from  them  in  the  body  promotes  diaphoresis.  (See  Aqile  Minerales.)  Probably  by 
the  latter  operation  sulphur  is  useful  as  an  internal  remedy  for  chronic  rheumatism, 
especially  of  the  muscles  and  tendons,  but  not  of  the  joints.  It  forms  an  ingredient  of 
the  laxative  compound  known  as  the  “ Chelsea  pensioner,”  thus : Jfc.  Flowers  of  sulphur 
gij  ; Cream  of  tartar  ; Powdered  rhubarb  3ij  ; Guaiacum  gj  ; Clarified  honey  lb.j  ; one 
Nutmeg,  finely  powdered.— M.  S.  2 large  teaspoonfuls  to  be  taken  night  and  morning, 
and  at  bedtime  a hot  alcoholic  draught.  A lozenge  containing  5 grains  of  precipitated 
sulphur  and  1 grain  of  potassium  bitartrate  is  recommended  by  Garrod  for  habitual 
use  in  constipation , etc. 

In  chronic  coughs  with  profuse  expectoration  the  virtues  of  sulphur  are  sometimes  con- 
spicuous. Its  reputation  in  such  affections  at  one  time  was  so  great  as  to  obtain  for  it 
the  title  of  balsamum  pulmonum.  It  was  often  used  for  this  purpose  in  the  form  of  the 
compound  liquorice  powder,  which  is  now  more  generally  employed  as  a mild  and  efficient 
laxative.  It  has  been  claimed  that  sulphurous  mineral  waters  are  curative  of  certain 
cases  of  phthisis  (Candelle,  Bull,  de  Therap .,  cii.  305,  366).  Undoubtedly,  in  certain 
cases  they  tend  to  eliminate  the  bronchitic  element  of  the  disease,  but  nothing  more. 
(Compare  Aitken,  Practitioner , xxxi.  259  ; Dujardin-Beaumetz,  Bull,  et  Mem.  Soc.  ther ., 
1887,  p.  200.)  The  mildness  of  the  laxative  operation  of  sulphur  renders  it  appropriate 
in  piles ; for  this  and  similar  purposes  it  is  often  administered  with  cream  of  tartar,  of 
each  Gm.  4 (1  drachm),  mixed  with  molasses. 

Nebulized  sulphurous  waters  are  useful  as  a local  application  in  granular  pharyngitis 
and  chronic  laryngitis,  and  powdered  sulphur  itself  was  long  ago  recommended  to  be 
applied  by  insufflation  to  the  same  parts  in  diphtheria  and  croup,  but  of  its  efficacy  there 
is  not  sufficient  proof,  at  least  in  the  latter  disease.  In  the  former,  however,  there  is 
some  reason  for  believing  that  finely-powdered  or  precipitated  sulphur  applied  in  this 
manner  has  had  the  effect  of  removing  the  exudation  (Stuart,  Practitioner , xxii.  248 ; 
xxiii.  272 ; Knaggs,  Therap.  Gaz.,  xii.  153,  226  ; Osborne,  ibid.,  xiii.  357).  But  the 
arguments  in  its  favor  are  more  theoretical  than  clinical.  It  has  been  claimed  that  the 
fumes  of  sulphur  arrest  whooping  cough  {Therap.  Gaz.,  xi.  185).  It  is  said  that  malarial 
fevers  do  not  prevail  where  the  air  is  impregnated  with  sulphurous  emanations  (D’Abbadie, 
Practitioner,  xxix.  466). 

Sulphur  is  given  as  a laxative  in  the  dose  of  from  Gm.  4-15  (gr.  lx-ccl).  For  other 
purposes  the  dose  is  about  Gm.  2 (gr.  xxx).  It  may  be  administered  in  milk  or  molasses 
or  other  syrup. 

SULPHURIS  IODIDUM,  77.  S ,,  Ur, — Sulphur  Iodide. 

Sulfur  iodatum , Ioduretum  sulfuris. — Iodure  de  soufrc,  Fr.  ; Jodschwefel,  G. 

Preparation. — Washed  Sulphur  20  Gm.  ; Iodine  80  Gm.  Mix  the  sulphur  and 
iodine  thoroughly  by  trituration  ; introduce  the  mixture  into  a flask,  close  the  orifice 
loosely  and  by  means  of  a water-bath  gradually  and  with  occasional  agitation  apply  a 
heat  not  exceeding  60°  C.  (140°  F.)  until  the  ingredients  combine,  which  is  indicated 
by  the  color  becoming  uniformly  dark  throughout  the  mixture.  Then  increase  the  heat 
to  the  boiling-point  of  the  water,  so  as  to  fuse  the  mass.  By  inclining  the  flask  unite 
any  iodine  which  may  have  sublimed  and  condensed  on  the  sides  of  the  flask  with  the 


1544 


SUMBUL. 


fused  mass,  and  then  pour  the  latter  out  upon  a porcelain  plate  or  other  suitable  cold 
surface.  After  cooling  break  the  product  into  pieces  of  suitable  size,  and  keep  them  in 
a glass-stoppered  bottle  in  a cool  place. — U.  S.,  Br. 

On  warming  a mixture  of  iodine  and  sulphur  the  two  elements  unite,  and  at  a some- 
what higher  heat  melt  together.  The  operation  is  readily  performed  in  an  ordinary  vial 
if  this  is  carefully  heated  by  means  of  a sand-bath.  The  use  of  washed  sulphur  directed  by 
the  U.  S.  P.  is  an  unnecessary  refinement  in  view  of  the  qualities  demanded  for  sublimed 
sulphur,  the  trace  of  acid  present  in  the  latter  not  affecting  the  quality  of  the  preparation. 

Properties. — Thus  prepared,  sulphur  iodide  is  a grayish-black  mass  of  a radiated 
crystalline  appearance  and  with  a metallic  lustre.  It  resembles  iodine  in  smell  and  taste, 
and  on  exposure  to  the  air  gradually  loses  iodine.  If  exposed  to  a gradually-increased 
heat,  it  sublimes,  the  first  portion  of  the  sublimate  consisting  of  iodine,  and  the  portion 
subsequently  obtained  containing  sulphur ; only  a minute  trace  of  fixed  residue  should 
be  left.  Sulphur  iodide  is  insoluble  in  water,  but  dissolves  in  about  60  parts  of  glycerin, 
and  is  soluble  in  carbon  disulphide,  on  the  spontaneous  evaporation  of  which  at  a low 
temperature  iodine  crystallizes  first,  and  afterward  rhombic  pyramids  of  sulphuric  iodide 
are  obtained,  having  the  formula  SI6  (Vom  Rath,  1860),  and  on  exposure  to  the  air 
leaving  sulphur  in  the  form  of  a delicate  crystalline  skeleton  (Lamers,  1861).  Alcohol, 
ether,  volatile  oils,  and  cold  solutions  of  potassa  and  of  potassium  iodide  decompose  sul- 
phur iodide  by  dissolving  the  iodine.  A similar  decomposition  is  effected  by  boiling  the 
sulphur  iodide  with  water,  with  the  vapors  of  which  the  iodine  passes  off,  leaving  a 
residue  of  sulphur  amounting  to  20  per  cent,  of  the  weight  of  the  sulphur  iodide 
employed ; this  is  recommended  as  a test  of  purity  by  the  U.  S.  P. 

Composition. — Sulphur  and  iodine  are  employed  in  the  proportion  of  their  atomic 
weights,  the  compound  being  regarded  as  sulphur  subiodide , S2I2.  Guthrie  (1861)  obtained 
this  compound  in  tabular  crystals  by  acting  with  sulphur  subchloride,  S2C12,  upon  ethyl 
iodide,  C2H5I. 

Action  and  Uses. — Sulphur  iodide  was  originally  employed  in  the  treatment  of 
tuberculated  diseases  of  the  shin  in  an  ointment  which  contained  from  1 part  of  the  iodide 
in  12  parts  to  1 part  in  3 parts  of  lard.  It  acts  as  a stimulant  or  caustic  according  to 
the  strength  of  the  ointment  applied.  It  is  seldom  used,  chiefly  on  account  of  its 
tendency  to  become  decomposed.  (See  Ung.  Plumbi  Iodidi.) 


SUMBUL,  U.  S. — Sumbul-root. 

Sumbul  radix , Br.  ; Racine  de  sumbul , Fr. ; & Uimbulwurzel,  Moschuswurzel,  G. 

The  root  of  Ferula  (Euryangium,  Kauffmann)  Sumbul,  Hooker  films , s.  Sumbulus  mos- 
chatus,  Reinsch.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 131. 

Nat.  Ord. — Umbelliferae,  Orthospermae. 

Origin. — The  sumbul-plant  is  indigenous  to  Turkestan,  Bucharia,  Eastern  Siberia, 
and  probably  to  other  parts  of  Central  Asia,  and  was  discovered  by  Fedschenko  (1869) 
in  the  mountains  of  Maghian,  south-eastward  of  Samarkand.  It  is  a perennial  growing 
to  the  height  of  2.4  M.  (8  feet),  and  has  large,  triangular,  tripinnate  radical  leaves  and  a 
few  small  cauline  leaves,  the  upper  ones  being  reduced  to  sheathing  bracts.  The  flowers 
are  polygamous,  and  the  fruit  is  about  12  Mm.  (|  inch)  long,  oblong-oval,  dorsally  com- 
pressed, and  when  ripe  is  free  from  oil-tubes,  but  in  the  unripe  state  has  in  each  mericarp 
four  large  dorsal  and  two  small  commissural  vittae.  The  root  was  sent  to  Western  Russia 
in  1835  as  a substitute  for  musk,  and  was  afterward  used  in  medicine. 

Description, — Sumbul-root  enters  commerce  by  way 
of  Russia.  It  is  spindle-shaped,  simple,  about  30  Cm. 
(12  inches)  long,  and  is  met  with  in  transverse  segments, 
varying  in  diameter  from  2-15  Cm.  (1  inch  to  4 or  6 
inches),  and  in  thickness  from  2-5  Cm.  (f  inch  to  2 
inches),  occasionally  intermixed  with  pieces  scarcely 
6 Mm.  (1  inch)  in  diameter.  The  root  is  light,  of  a 


Fig.  297. 


spongy  texture,  annulate  in  the  upper  part,  and  below 
with  longitudinal  wrinkles,  covered  with  a thin  brown 
bark,  is  internally  whitish,  sprinkled  with  yellowish-brown 
resinous  dots,  and  consists  of  white  parenchyma  and  pale- 
brownish  fibro-vascular  bundles,  which  are  easily  sepa- 
rated, are  irregular-wavy,  and  more  numerous  near  the 
bark  than  in  the  centre.  Sumbul-root  breaks  with  an  irregular,  farinaceous,  and 


Sumbul-root. 


STJPPOSITORIA. 


1545 


fibrous  fracture,  and  has  a strong,  persistent  musk-like  odor  and  a bitter  balsamic 
taste. 

Constituents. — The  ethereal  tincture  of  sumbul-root,  on  being  evaporated  and 
treated  with  alcohol,  leaves  waxy  matter  behind,  and  on  evaporating  the  alcoholic 
solution  Reinsch’s  (1848)  sumbul  balsam  is  obtained,  which  on  being  heated  in  a narrow 
tube  acquires  a green  afterward  blue  color,  and  subsequently  yields  oily  distillates  of  a 
yellow,  green,  and  blue  color,  and  containing  umbelliferon.  When  added  to  sulphuric 
acid  the  balsam  acquires  a purple  color,  and  after  having  been  heated  with  potassa  it 
yields  to  a small  quantity  of  water  potassium  angelicate,  the  potassium  salt  of  sum- 
bulamic  acid  remaining  undissolved.  Valerianic  acid  is  probably  likewise  contained  in 
the  resinous  extract.  Murawjeff  (1853)  reported  having  obtained  from  sumbul-root  an 
alkaloid,  sumbuline , yielding  crystallizable  salts.  The  chemistry  of  sumbul-root  requires 
further  researches. 

Allied  Root.— In  India  a root  is  employed  as  sumbul-root  which,  according  to  Pereira,  differs 
from  the  Russian  root  in  being  of  a closer  texture,  firmer,  denser,  and  of  a more  yellow  tint. 
Dymock  showed  it  to  be  the  root  of  Dorema  Ammoniacum,  which  has  no  musk-like  odor. 

Uses. — This  root  first  attracted  attention  in  Russia  about  1835  as  a specific  for 
cholera — how  uselessly  the  history  of  that  disease  demonstrates.  Afterward  its  strong 
musky  odor  led  to  its  being  prescribed  in  various  functional  nervous  disorders,  including 
hysteria  and  delirium  tremens  ; and  compounds  of  it  with  iron,  arsenic,  etc.  were  used  in 
amenorrhoea  and  chlorosis , and  the  benefit  due  to  these  metals  was  attributed  to  the  sumbul 
associated  with  them.  Its  combined  resin  and  essential  oil  caused  it  to  be  employed  in 
mucous  profluvia.  such  as  chronic  bronchitis , leucorrhoea , and  gleet.  It  is  now  but  little 
used.  The  dose  of  the  root  in  powder  is  Gm.  0.60-1.30  (gr.  x-xx).  It  has  also  been 
given  in  tincture  and  in  syrup. 


SUPPOSITORIA. — Suppositories. 

Suppositoires , Fr.  ; Stuhlzdpfchen , G. 

Suppositories  are  solid  medicinal  preparations  intended  to  be  introduced  into  the  rectum 
or  vagina,  and  of  such  a consistence  that  they  will  slowly  melt  at  the  temperature  of  the 
body  or  liquefy  in  the  presence  of  moisture.  The  material  best  adapted  for  the  vehicle 
is  undoubtedly  butter  of  cacao,  since  at  ordinary  temperatures  it  is  sufficiently  firm  to  be 
handled,  and  at  the  same  time  has  such  a low  fusing-point  that  it  will  slowly  but  com- 
pletely liquefy  after  introduction  into  the  rectum.  In  addition  to  this,  it  is  not  prone  to 
become  rancid,  and  may  be  mixed  with  most  medicinal  substances  commonly  employed  in 
this  form  of  medication  without  having  its  fusing-point  lowered.  The  volatile  oils,  cam- 
phor, carbolic  acid,  creosote,  and  chloral  hydrate,  exert  a marked  influence  upon  the  con- 
sistence of  cacao  butter,  and  liquefy  with  it  at  a temperature  lower  than  its  fusing-point. 
But  even  these  substances  may  be  added  in  small  quantities  without  occasioning  unusual 
trouble  in  preparing  the  suppositories ; if,  however,  added  in  full  medicinal  doses,  the 
cacao  butter  may  be  replaced  by  about  10  per  cent,  of  spermaceti. 

Recently  (August,  1893)  a change  has  been  suggested  by  II.  8.  Wellcome  of  London  • 
in  the  shape  of  suppositories  and  bougies.  It  being  well  known  that  the  old  cone  shape, 
and  even  the  double  cone  shape,  latterly  employed  operate  considerably  against  reten- 
tion of  the  suppository  on  account  of  the  peculiar  contraction  of  the  sphincter  muscles, 
a modification  of  the  shape  has  been  proposed,  so  as  to  allow  of  the  introduction  of  the 
bulbous  end  of  the  suppository  or  bougie  first,  and  thus  ensure  perfect  retention  by  the 
reflex  contraction  of  the  sphincter.  No  patent  or  proprietary  right  being  claimed  for 
the  improvement  in  shape,  any  pharmacist  is  at  liberty  to  use  it,  and  can  procure  suitable 
moulds  for  the  same. 

Figs.  298  and  299  show  the  shape  and  actual  size  of  the  improved  bougies  and 
suppositories. 

In  the  selection  of  the  base  for  suppositories  the  United  States  Pharmacopoeia  very 
properly  follows  the  French  Codex,  while  the  British  Pharmacopoeia  employs  a mixture 
of  cacao  butter  and  wax,  or  curd  soap  with  powdered  starch  or  with  starch  and  glycerite 
of  starch.  Suet  is  also  occasionally  used  in  Europe  for  this  purpose.  Another  vehicle, 
which  is  more  particularly  adapted  for  vaginal  suppositories,  is  a combination  of  3 parts 
of  gelatin,  7 of  glycerin,  and  1 of  alcohol,  as  proposed  by  H.  B.  Brady. 


1546 


SUPPOSITOBIA. 


The  size  of  rectal  suppositories  adopted  by  the  different  pharmacopoeias  varies  very 
much,  their  weight,  according  to  the  United  States  and  British  Pharmacopoeias,  being 

Fig.  298. 


The  “ Wellcome  ’’-shape  Suppositories. 


15  grains ; according  to  the  German  Pharmacopoeia,  2-3  Gm.  (30-45  grains),  and  accord- 
ing to  the  French  Codex  4,  or  for  children  2,  Gm.  (60  or  30  grains). 

Fig.  299. 


The  “ Wellcome  ’’-shape  Bougies. 


Preparation. — Suppositories  are  prepared  by  the  following  general  formula : “ Hav- 
ing weighed  out  the  medicinal  ingredient  or  ingredients,  and  the  quantity  of  oil  of  theo- 
broma required  according  to  the  kind  of  suppository  to  be  prepared  (see  below),  mix  the 
medicinal  portion  (previously  brought  to  a proper  consistence,  if  necessary)  with  a small 
quantity  of  the  oil  of  theobroma,  by  rubbing  them  together,  and  add  the  mixture  to  the 
remainder  of  the  oil  of  theobroma,  previously  melted  and  cooled  to  the  temperature  of 
35°  C.  (95°  F.).  Then  mix  thoroughly,  without  applying  more  heat,  and  immediately 
pour  the  mixture  into  suitable  moulds.  The  moulds  must  be  thoroughly  chilled  by  being 
placed  on  ice  or  by  immersion  in  ice-cold  water,  and  the  inner  surface  of  the  moulds  should 
be  carefully  freed  from  adhering  moisture  before  the  melted  mass  is  poured  in. 

In  the  absence  of  suitable  moulds  suppositories  may  be  formed  by  allowing  the  mix- 
ture, prepared  as  -above,  to  cool,  care  being  taken  to  keep  the  ingredients  well  mixed, 
and  dividing  the  mass  into  parts,  of  a definite  weight  each,  of  the  proper  shape. 

Unless  otherwise  specified,  suppositories  should  have  the  following  weights  and  shapes, 
corresponding  to  their  several  uses : Rectal  suppositories  should  be  cone-shaped,  and  of 
a weight  of  about  1 Gm.  Urethral  suppositories  should  be  pencil-shaped,  and  of  a weight 
of  about  1 Gm.  Vaginal  suppositories  should  be  globular,  and  of  a weight  of  about 
3 Gm.” — U.  S. 

These  directions  are  sufficiently  minute  for  the  proper  preparation  of  suppositories 
having  cacao  butter  for  their  base.  The  directions  of  the  British  Pharmacopoeia  when 
other  vehicles  are  used  are  given  below.  In  making  suppositories  with  gelatin,  this 
material  is  well  soaked  in  water,  and  when  thoroughly  saturated  and  softened  is  melted 
together  with  the  requisite  quantity  of  glycerin,  and  the  fused  mass  is  mixed  with  the 
alcohol  containing  the  medicinal  substance  in  solution  or  suspension.  Since  tannin  forms 
an  insoluble  compound  with  gelatin,  drugs  owing  their  virtue  to  tannin  cannot  be  com- 
bined with  this  vehicle,  which  is  likewise  not  well  adapted  for  various  salts  unless  the 
amount  of  gelatin  be  somewhat  increased. 

To  obtain  suppositories  of  a uniform  shape,  they  are  generally  moulded.  The  simplest 
mould  is  made  of  thin  writing-paper  folded  into  the  shape  of  a cone  and  having  the  edge 
secured  with  a little  sealing-wax  or  paste ; after  the  material  has  solidified  the  paper  is 
unrolled.  Or  the  moulds  are  made  of  pewter  or  other  suitable  metal  and  suspended  in 
a tray,  which  is  filled  with  cold  water  or  fragments  of  ice  to  thoroughly  chill  the  moulds 
before  the  melted  mass  is  poured  out.  The  suppositories  will  readily  congeal,  and  may 
be  removed  by  inverting  the  mould  and  striking  it  suddenly  on  a slab.  Moulds  have  also 
been  made  of  brass  with  a number  of  conical  cavities  of  the  desired  size  and  shape,  and 
arranged  in  such  a manner  that  after  the  suppositories  have  congealed  the  mould  may 
be  taken  apart  either  by  removing  the  top  portion  or  the  sides,  when  the  suppositories 
are  easily  lifted  or  pushed  out  by  slight  pressure.  Serviceable  suppository  moulds  may 
be  mg  do  by  the  pharmacist  from  plaster  of  Paris,  as  was  suggested  by  Charles  E.  Dwight 
(1872),  by  pouring  the  plaster,  mixed  with  water  to  the  consistence  of  thick  cream,  into 
a suitable  vessel,  and  inserting  into  the  soft  mass  a convenient  number  of  wax  supposi- 
tories in  such  a manner  that  the  broad  end  is  near  one  side,  and  the  suppositories  are 


SUPPOSITORIA. 


1547 


immersed  only  to  one-half  their  diameter.  When  the  plaster  is  set  the  wax  is  removed, 

the  surface  is  smoothed  with  a knife,  taking 
care  that  the  edges  of  each  mould  he  sharp, 
and  small  cavities  are  dug  between  the  de- 
pressions. This  represents  one-half  of  the 
mould,  the  surface  of  which  is  well  greased, 

Fjg.  301. 


Hinged  Suppository  Mould. 

and  after  replacing  the  wax  the  other  half  is  obtained  by  pouring  mixed  plaster  upon 
the  greased  surface  to  the  depth  of  an  inch  or  more.  When  hard  the  two  parts  can 
be  easily  separated,  the  edges  trimmed  oft’,  and  each  part  boiled  for  about  an  hour  in 
linseed  oil,  which  will  prevent  the  adhesion  of  the  substance  to  be  moulded.  The  adhe- 
sion of  suppositories  to  metallic  moulds  sometimes  causes  inconvenience ; it  is  almost 
invariably  due  to  the  imperfect  cleaning  or  to  insufficient  chilling  of  the  moulds. 

In  making  suppositories  it  is  of  importance  that  the  medicinal  ingredients  are  uniformly 
mixed  with  the  vehicle,  and  if  not  soluble  in  the  latter  the  rapid  congelation  of  the  mix- 


Fig.  302. 

a.,  closed.  b.,  open. 


The  “ Perfection  ” Suppository  Mould. 


ture  after  it  has  been  poured  into  the  moulds  is  absolutely  necessary.  The  difficulty 
thus  experienced  has  led  many  pharmacists  to  abandon  this  method  and  prepare  supposi- 
tories by  a process  rendering  fusion  of  the  cacao  butter  unnecessary.  This  vehicle  is 
either  grated  or  by  means  of  a sharp  knife  cut  into  very  thin  slices,  and  mixed  by  tritu- 
ration, either  in  a mortar  or  on  a slab,  with  the  other  ingredients ; in  this  condition  the 
mass  may  be  easily  rolled  out,  in  the  same  manner  as  a pill  mass,  and  cut  into  the  requi- 
site number  of  pieces,  each  of  which  is  then  shaped  into  a cone  with  the  fingers  or  a 
spatula.  Several  apparatuses  have  been  constructed  by  means  of  which  the  mass,  as 
obtained  by  mixing  the  cold  ingredients,  may  be  compressed  into  conical  moulds. 

Figs.  302  and  303  represent  two  moulds  for  making  suppositories  without  the  use  of 
heat : by  the  cold  method  any  possible  damage  to  the  ingredients  by  over-heating,  as 
well  as  separation  of  the  mixture,  is  entirely  obviated,  and,  moreover,  the  suppositories 
can  be  dispensed  in  far  less  time.  Both  moulds  are  extensively  used,  the  “ Perfection  ” 
possessing  the  advantage  of  compressing  three  rectal  suppositories  at  once. 


Fig.  300. 


See’s  Suppository  Mould. 


1548 


SUPPOSITORIA  ACIDI  CAEBOLICI  CUM  SAPONE. 


Special  formulas  for  suppositories  are  no  longer  given  by  the  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia, 
except  in  one  instance,  but  the  following  synopsis  explains  the  composition  and  manipu- 

Fig.  303. 


W.  T.  & Co.’s  Cold  Compression  Mould. 


lation  for  those  which  were  recognized  by  the  U.  S.  P.  1870 ; twelve  suppositories  are 
made  in  each  case  : 


Suppositoria. 

Medicinal  ingredients. 

Incorporate  with 
cacao  butter. 

Add  to  cacao  butter. 

Acidi  carbolici. 

Carbolic  acid  12  grains. 

60  grains. 

108 

grains. 

Acidi  tannici. 

Tannin  60  grains. 

60 

60 

u 

Aloes. 

Powd.  purif.  aloes  60  grains. 

60 

.11 

60 

ll 

Asafoetidae. 

Tinct.  of  asafetida  1 fluidounce  ; evap- 
orate spontaneously. 

60 

ll 

80 

ll 

Belladonnae. 

Alcoh.  extract  of  belladonna  6 grains  ; 
water  sufficient. 

60 

a 

114 

ll 

Morphiae. 

Morphine  sulphate  6 grains. 

60 

ll 

114 

ll 

Opii. 

Extract  of  opium  12  grains  ; water  suf- 
ficient. 

60 

a 

108 

ll 

Plumbi. 

Lead  acetate  36  grains. 

60 

a 

84 

ll 

Plumbi  et  opii. 

Lead  acetate  36  grains  ; extract  of  opi- 
um 6 grains  ; water  sufficient. 

60 

u 

80 

ll 

Urethral  suppositories  are  made  in  precisely  the  same  manner  as  those  intended  for  use 
in  the  rectum  or  vagina,  the  chief  difference  being  in  the  shape,  which  should  be  cylin- 
drical and  slender,  and  in  the  greater  stiffness  of  the  vehicle.  J.  L.  Lemberger  (1871) 
made  use  of  the  well-known  candle-mould,  modified  merely  by  making  the  tubes  much 
smaller ; and  others  have  forced  the  mixture  of  cacao  butter,  wax,  and  medicinal  sub- 
stances through  a narrow  tube,  and  cut  the  cylinders  thus  obtained  into  pieces  of  a suit- 
able length. 

SUPPOSITORIA  ACIDI  CARBOLICI  CUM  SAPONE,  Br.— Carbolic 

Acid  Suppositories. 

Suppositoires  d'acide  phenique,  Fr. ; Carbolsdure-Stuhhapfchen , G. 

Preparation.— Take  of  Carbolic  Acid  12  grains;  Curd  Soap,  in  powder,  180  grains; 
Glycerin  of  Starch  40  grains  or  a sufficiency.  Mix  the  ingredients  so  as  to  form  a paste 
of  suitable  consistence.  Divide  the  mass  into  twelve  equal  parts,  each  of  which  is  to  be 
made  into  a conical  or  other  convenient  form  for  a suppository.  Each  suppository  con- 
tains 1 grain  of  carbolic  acid. — Br. 


SUPPOSITORIA  ACID  I TA  NNICI.—S  UPPOSITORIA  HYDRARGYRI.  1549 


Uses. — This  suppository  is  disinfectant  and  stimulant,  and  may  be  used  in  chronic 
dysentery,  haemorrhoids , cancer , and  other  diseases  of  the  rectum  attended  with  mucous, 
purulent,  or  bloody  secretions  or  with  fetor. 

SUPPOSITORIA  ACIDI  TANNICI,  Br. — Tannic  Acid  Suppositories. 

Suppositoires  de  tannin , Fr.  ; Tannin- Stub Izapfchen , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Tannic  Acid  36  grains  ; Oil  of  Theobroma  144  grains.  Rub 
the  tannic  acid  with  44  grains  of  the  oil  of  theobroma  in  a slightly  warmed  mortar,  and 
add  them  to  the  remainder  of  the  oil  of  theobroma  previously  melted  at  a low  tempera- 
ture; mix  thoroughly,  and  pour  the  mixture  while  it  is  fluid  into  suitable  moulds  of  the 
capacity  of  15  grains ; or  the  fluid  mixture  may  be  allowed  to  cool,  and  then  be  divided 
into  twelve  equal  parts,  each  of  which  shall  be  made  into  a conical  or  other  convenient 
form  for  a suppository. — Br. 

Suppositoria  acidi  tannici  cum  sapone.  Take  of  tannic  acid  36  grains ; glycerin 
of  starch  30  grains;  curd  soap,  in  powder,  100  grains;  starch,  in  powder,  a sufficiency. 
Mix  the  tannic  acid  with  the  glycerin  of  starch  and  soap,  and  add  sufficient  starch  to 
form  a paste  of  suitable  consistence.  Divide  the  mass  into  twelve  equal  parts,  each  of 
which  is  to  be  made  into  a conical  or  other  convenient  form  for  a suppository. — Br. 

Uses. — Tannic-acid  suppositories  are  chiefly  used  to  allay  rectal  or  vaginal  irritation, 
diminish  local  discharges,  and  constringe  the  flabby  mucous  membrane  of  these  parts. 

SUPPOSITORIA  GLYCERINI,  U.  8.,  Br . Add.— Glycerin  Supposi- 
tories. 

Suppositoires  de  glycerin , Fr. ; Glycerin- Stuhlzdpfchen,  G. 

Preparation. — Glycerin  60  Gm. ; Sodium  Carbonate  3 Gm. ; Stearic  Acid  5 Gm., 
to  make  10  rectal  suppositories.  Dissolve  the  sodium  carbonate  in  the  glycerin  in  a cap- 
sule on  a water-bath  ; then  add  the  stearic  acid,  and  heat  carefully  until  this  is  dissolved 
and  the  escape  of  carbon  dioxide  has  ceased.  Then  pour  the  melted  mass  into  suitable 
moulds,  remove  the  suppositories  when  they  are  cold,  and  wrap  each  in  tin-foil.  These 
suppositories  should  be  freshly  prepared  when  required. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 dozen  glycerin  suppositories  use  glycerin  1111  grains,  sodium  carbonate  56 
grains,  and  stearic  acid  93  grains. 

Take  of  gelatin,  cut  small,  J oz.  ; glycerin,  by  weight,  2J  ounces;  distilled  water  a 
sufficiency ; place  the  gelatin  in  a weighed  evaporating-dish  with  sufficient  water  to  cover 
it ; after  allowing  it  to  stand  for  a minute  or  two,  pour  away  the  excess  of  water ; set 
aside  until  the  gelatin  is  quite  soft,  then  add  the  glycerin.  Dissolve  over  a water-bath, 
and  evaporate  until  the  mixture  weighs  1560  grains.  Pour  the  product  into  suppository 
moulds  holding  30,  60,  or  120  grain-measures,  or  having  other  capacities  as  required. 
Each  suppository  contains  70  per  cent,  by  weight  of  glycerin. — Br. 

The  two  formulas  differ  somewhat : the  mass  made  by  the  U.  S.  P.  formula  contains 
about  20  per  cent,  more  of  glycerin  than  that  of  the  Br.  Ph.  In  the  former,  sodium 
stearate  is  obtained  as  a result  of  the  reaction  between  sodium  carbonate  and  stearic  acid  ; 
thus,  Na2CO3.10H2O  + 2HC18H3502  = 2NaC18H3502  + C02  + 11H20.  If  all  the  water 
be  expelled,  the  official  mass  will  weigh  about  66.52  Gm.  and  contain  90  per  cent,  of 
glycerin.  Each  official  glycerin  suppository  will  weigh  about  6.652  Gm.  (102  grains). 

Uses. — Suppositories  of  glycerin  can  only  act  mechanically  to  promote  an  action  of 
the  rectum.  In  structural  diseases  of  this  bowel  they  are  less  eligible  than  liquid  or 
semi-liquid  enemas. 

SUPPOSITORIA  HYDRARGYRI,  Br.- Mercurial-  Suppositories. 

Suppositoires  mercuriels , Fr.  ; Mercurial- St uhlzapfchen,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Ointment  of  Mercury  60  grains  ; Oil  of  Theobroma  120 
grains.  Melt  the  oil  of  theobroma  with  sufficient  heat,  then  add  the  ointment  of  mer- 
cury, and,  having  mixed  them  thoroughly,  without  applying  more  heat,  immediately  pour 
the  mixture,  before  it  has  congealed,  into  suitable  moulds  of  the  capacity  of  15  grains; 
or,  the  fluid  mixture  may  be  allowed  to  cool,  and  then  be  divided  into  twelve  equal 
parts,  each  of  which  shall  be  made  into  a conical  or  other  convenient  form  for  a sup- 
pository.— Br. 

Uses. — These  suppositories  appear  to  have  been  contrived  for  the  purpose  of  affecting 
the  system  with  mercury  when  for  any  reason  it  cannot  be  administered  by  the  mouth. 


1550 


S UPPOSITORIA  M ORPHIN^E.—S YMPHYTUM. 


SUPPOSITORIA  MORPHINE,  Hr. — Morphine  Suppositories. 

Suppositoires  morphines , Fr. ; Morphin-Stuldzap fchen , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Morphine  Hydrochlorate  6 grains ; Oil  of  Theobroma  174 
grains.  Rub  the  morphine  hydrochlorate  with  24  grains  of  the  oil  of  theobroma  in  a 
slightly  warmed  mortar,  and  add  this  to  the  remainder  of  the  oil  previously  melted  at  a 
low  temperature ; mix  the  wdiole  thoroughly,  and  pour  the  mixture  while  it  is  fluid  into 
suitable  moulds  of  the  capacity  of  15  grains;  or,  the  fluid  mixture  may  be  allowed  to 
cool,  and  then  be  divided  into  twelve  equal  parts,  each  of  which  shall  be  made  into  a 
conical  or  other  convenient  form  for  a suppository,  which  will  contain  £ grain  of  mor- 
phine hydrochlorate. — Br. 

SUPPOSITORIA  MORPHINE  cum  sapone.  Take  of  morphine  hydrochlorate  6 grains  ; 
glycerin  of  starch  30  grains  ; curd  soap,  in  powder,  100  grains  ; starch,  in  powder,  a suffi- 
ciency. Mix  the  morphine  hydrochlorate  with  the  glycerin  of  starch  and  soap,  and  add 
sufficient  starch  to  form  a paste  of  suitable  consistence.  Divide  the  mass  into  twelve 
equal  parts,  each  of  which  is  to  be  made  into  a conical  or  other  convenient  form  for  a 
suppository. — Br. 

Uses. — Each  of  these  suppositories  contains  Gm.  0.03  (£  grain)  of  morphine  hydro- 
chlorate, which  is  quite  too  large  a dose  for  ordinary  use. 

SUPPOSITORIA  PLUMBI  COMPOSITA,  ^.-Compound  Lead 

Suppositories. 

Suppositoires  de  plomb  opiaces , Fr. ; Stuhlzdpfchen  von  Opium  und  Bleizucker , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Lead  Acetate  36  grains;  Opium,  in  powder,  12  grains;  Oil 
of  Theobroma  132  grains.  Rub  the  lead  acetate  and  opium  with  42  grains  of  the  oil 
of  theobroma  in  a slightly  warmed  mortar,  and  add  them  to  the  remainder  of  the  oil 
previously  melted  at  a low  temperature  ; mix  the  whole  thoroughly  and  pour  the  mix- 
ture while  it  is  fluid  into  suitable  moulds  of  the  capacity  of  15  grains  ; or,  the  fluid  mix- 
4 ture  may  be  allowed  to  cool,  and  then  be  divided  into  twelve  equal  parts,  each  of  which 
shall  be  made  into  a conical  or  other  convenient  form  for  a suppository. — Br. 

Uses. — The  combined  astringent,  soporific,  and  anodyne  qualities  of  these  supposi- 
tories render  them  appropriate  in  many  affections  of  the  rectum,  vagina , and  uterus  at- 
tended with  altered  secretion  and  pain,  such  as  leucorrhoea,  diarrhoea,  dysentery,  cancer,  etc. 

SYMPHYTUM.— Comfrey-root. 

Radix  symphyti,  Radix  consolidse  majoris. — Consoude,  Fr. ; Schwarzwurz , Beinwurz,  G. 

The  root  of  Symphytum  officinale,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Boraginaceae. 

Origin. — Comfrey  is  a European  perennial  growing  on  the  banks  of  streams  and  in 
meadows,  and  now  found  in  similar  places  in  the  United  States,  where  it  has  escaped  from 
gardens.  It  is  a coarse-looking  plant,  with  a bristly  stem  .5-1  M.  (20  to  40  inches)  in 
height,  and  with  lance-ovate  or  lanceolate  alternate  and  rough  leaves,  which  are  narrowed 
into  a winged  petiole.  The  flowers  are  in  racemose  cymes,  have  a five-toothed  calyx  and 
a tubular  bell-shaped  yellowish  white  or  purplish  corolla,  with  spreading  teeth  and  linear 
scales  closing  the  throat,  and  produce  four  smooth,  glossy,  brown-black  akenes.  The 
flowers  appear  in  June.  The  root  is  collected  in  autumn  or  early  in  spring,  and  yields 
about  20  per  cent,  of  air-dry  drug. 

Description. — Comfrey-root  is  fleshy,  15-20  Cm.  (6  or  8 inches)  long,  about  25  Mm. 
(an  inch)  thick  above,  several-headed,  tapering,  and  with  few  branches.  After  drying  it 
is  deeply  wrinkled  longitudinally,  often  bent,  of  a purplish-black  color  externally,  and 
breaks  readily  with  an  even  somewhat  waxy  fracture,  or  in  damp  weather  is  rather  tough. 
The  bark  is  about  one-eighth  the  diameter  of  the  root,  and  has  a thick  black,  corky  layer, 
the  inner  bark  being  whitish.  The  meditullium  consists  of  broad  medullary  rays  and 
narrow  wood-wedges,  and  is  of  a whitish  color,  or  when  old  brownish.  Comfrey-root  is 
inodorous,  and  has  a mucilaginous,  sweetish,  and  faintly  astringent  taste. 

Constituents. — The  most  important  principle  contained  in  comfrey-root  appears  to 
be  the  large  quantity  of  mucilage.  The  root  contains  also  sugar,  a little  tannin,  and  a 
few  starch-granules,  but  acquires  with  iodine  only  a brown,  not  a blue,  color.  Plisson 
(1829)  isolated  from  the  root  a small  quantity  of  asparagin. 

Uses. — Comfrey-root  is  both  demulcent  and  astringent,  and  was  esteemed  in  ancient 


SYRUPI. 


1551 


times  for  hastening  the  cure  of  bruises  and  the  cicatrization  of  wounds ; hence  its  name, 
consolida.  A popular  method  in  France  of  treating  fissures  of  the  nipple  is  to  apply  a 
hollow  section  of  the  fresh  root  over  the  sore  organ.  A decoction  of  it  is  prescribed  in 
haemoptysis , haematuria , metrorrhagia , diarrhoea , and  dysentery.  It  is  made  with  Gm.  8- 
16  in  Gm.  500  (^ij-iv  in  Oj)  of  water. 


SYRUPI.— Syrups. 

Sir  ops,  Fr. ; Sirupe , G. 

Syrups  are  concentrated  solutions  of  sugar  in  water  or  in  aqueous  or  very  slightly  alco- 
holic solutions  of  medicinal  substances.  In  a few  instances  vinegar  or  dilute  acetic  acid 
is  the  solvent,  and  in  Europe  certain  syrups  are  made  with  wine.  Syrup  made  of  sugar 
and  water  is  called  simple  syrup  ; all  others  are  distinguished  as  medicated  syrups , and 
these  may  be  again  classified  into  simple  and  compound  medicated  syrups,  in  accordance 
with  the  number  of  drugs  represented  by  them. 

Preparation. — In  preparing  syrups  only  the  best  refined  sugar  should  be  employed, 
which  is  free  from  impurities,  and  when  dissolved  in  water  is  less  prone  to  fermentation 
than  partially-refined  sugar.  Most  pharmacopoeias  direct  the  syrups  to  be  prepared 
with  the  aid  of  heat.  The  necessary  quantity  of  sugar  is  mixed  with  the  liquid,  a 
moderate  heat  is  applied  to  the  mixture,  and  this  is  frequently  stirred  until  the  sugar 
is  dissolved,  when  the  heat  is  raised  to  the  boiling-point,  and  the  syrup  is  strained  for  the 
purpose  of  removing  dust  and  other  accidental  impurities  that  may  have  been  contained 
in  the  sugar  and  albumen,  which  is  coagulated  by  heat  from  some  aqueous  infusions  of 
drugs.  After  straining,  the  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia  directs  the  volume  of  simple  syrup  to 
be  adjusted  by  passing  a sufficient  quantity  of  water  through  the  strainer.  In  fol- 
lowing these  directions  literally  the  syrup  may  become  too  much  diluted  through  the 
use  of  a large-sized  strainer,  which,  with  the  vessel  in  which  the  syrup  was  made,  would 
retain  considerable  of  the  latter  ; the  strainer  should  therefore  be  as  small  as  possible,  and 
water  equal  to  only  about  one-half  the  weight  to  be  made  up  should  be  used  until  the 
vessel  and  strainer  have  been  thoroughly  rinsed  with  it,  when  more  water  may  be  added. 
All  undue  dilution  may  be  avoided  by  ascertaining  the  volume  of  the  syrup  previous  to 
straining,  and  afterward  rinsing  the  vessel  and  strainer  only  with  sufficient  water  to  make 
up  the  difference.  The  German  Pharmacopoeia  very  properly  directs  the  adjustment  of 
the  weight  to  be  made  before  the  syrup  is  strained  or  filtered. 

With  three  exceptions,  all  syrups  of  the  U.  S.  P.  are  directed  to  be  made  by  dissolving 
the  sugar  in  the  proper  liquid  without  heat,  with  the  view  of  avoiding  the  evaporation 
of  volatile  ingredients  and  the  inverting  influence  of  hot  acid  liquids  upon  the  cane- 
sugar.  L.  Orynski  (1871)  proposed  to  extend  this  process  to  all  syrups,  and  the  method 
has  been  found  by  R.  Hunstock  (1875)  and  others  not  only  much  easier  and  more  econom- 
ical than  the  process  involving  the  use  of  heat,  but  likewise  to  yield  syrups  which,  as  a 
rule,  are  less  liable  to  ferment.  This  latter  quality  may  probably  be  directly  referred  to 
the  avoidance  of  heat,  since  the  continued  application  of  heat  is  known  to  produce 
changes  in  the  sugar  resulting  in  the  formation  of  glucose.  Simple  syrup,  made  by  dis- 
solving the  sugar  at  the  boiling-point  very  soon  after  it  has  been  prepared,  reduces  alka- 
line solutions  of  copper,  showing  the  formation  of  grape-sugar,  while  simple  syrup  made 
from  the  same  sugar,  but  without  heat,  forms  grape-sugar  more  slowly.  This  so-called 
cold  process  for  preparing  syrups  therefore  deserves  the  attention  of  pharmacists.  The 
menstruum  is  in  all  cases  prepared  as  directed  by  the  Pharmacopoeia ; the  requisite  quan- 
tity of  sugar  is  then  introduced  into  a conical  percolator,  the  lower  orifice  of  which  is 
closed  with  a cork,  and  into  the  neck  of  which  a piece  of  loose  sponge  or  cotton,  previously 
moistened,  is  introduced.  The  liquid  is  now  poured  into  the  percolator,  and  the  whole 
set  aside  in  a moderate  temperature  until  the  sugar  has  been  partially  dissolved  and 
melted  down  to  about  one-half  of  its  original  volume,  when  the  cork  may  be  removed  and 
the  syrup  allowed  to  drop  ; it  should  be  perfectly  clear  and  transparent,  or  the  turbid 
portion  returned  to  the  percolator.  If  the  sugar  is  not  all  dissolved  when  the  liquid  has 
passed,  this  is  to  be  again  percolated  through  the  sugar.  With  proper  management  a 
repetition  of  the  process  will  be  rarely  required.  Syrups  prepared  in  this  manner  with 
perfect  emulsions  will  be  opaque.  If  made  with  aqueous  infusions  of  drugs,  such  syrups 
will  contain  the  soluble  albuminous  principles,  and  probably  not  be  quite  as  unchange- 
able as  those  prepared  with  the  aid  of  heat;  but  if  the  drug  had  been  exhausted  by  an 


1552 


SYRITPL 


alcoholic  liquid,  as  directed  by  the  U.  S.  P.  for  most  of  the  syrups  to  which  these  remarks 
apply,  albumen  is  not  present. 

If  heat  is  employed,  as  directed  by  the  pharmacopoeias  for  most  syrups,  the  loss  occa- 
sioned by  evaporation  should  be  rectified  by  the  addition  of  water.  This  is  easily  accom- 
plished by  taking  the  weight  of  the  vessel  with  its  contents  before  and  after  boiling,  and 
adding  enough  water  to  compensate  for  the  loss  occasioned  by  heating.  If  clarification 
by  means  of  white  of  egg  should  be  necessary,  this  is  best  added  to  the  cold  aqueous 
liquid.  Paper-pulp  may  be  used  for  the  same  purpose. 

The  preparation  of  the  aqueous  liquid  used  for  dissolving  the  sugar  is  of  great  import- 
ance. The  pharmacopoeias  have  very  properly  discarded  the  exhaustion  of  the  crude 
drugs  by  boiling  them  with  water,  since  thereby  starch  and  other  principles  are  dissolved 
which  easily  undergo  chemical  changes,  and  interfere  with  the  stability  of  the  syrups. 
The  United  States  Pharmacopoeia  has,  for  the  same  reasons,  abandoned  the  employment 
of  hot  water  in  exhausting  the  drugs.  The  most  stable  medicated  syrups  are  obtained 
if  the  drug  is  treated  with  cold  water,  diluted  alcohol,  or  alcohol,  as  the  case  may  be, 
either  by  maceration  or  preferably  by  percolation.  For  this  part  of  the  process  all  the 
precautions  are  required  which  have  been  pointed  out  in  another  place  (see  pp.  639-643). 
The  percolate  is  concentrated,  and,  if  necessary,  deprived  of  alcohol,  particular  care 
being  required  to  prevent  the  evaporation  of  volatile  principles  and  the  change  of  others 
by  the  influence  of  an  elevated  temperature.  Filtration  of  the  concentrated  liquid  is 
usually  required,  and  it  should  be  borne  in  mind  that  it  is  much  easier  to  pass  a concen- 
trated aqueous  infusion  of  a drug  or  an  aqueous  solution  of  an  alcoholic  extract  through 
a filter  than  to  perform  the  same  operation  with  a syrup. 

The  proper  proportion  of  sugar  to  menstruum  ensures  the  stability  of  the  syrup. 
Should  the  sugar  be  deficient  in  quantity,  it  could  not  efficiently  protect  the  other  organic 
principles  contained  in  the  syrup,  and  it  would  be  liable  to  ferment.  On  the  other  hand, 
if  too  much  sugar  be  employed,  the  excess  would  crystallize  after  cooling,  and  dispose 
an  additional  quantity  to  separate  in  a like  manner,  thus  leaving  the  syrup  weaker  in 
sugar  than  it  should  be,  and  subject  to  similar  alterations  as  if  an  insufficient  quan- 
tity of  sugar  had  been  used.  The  proper  proportion  of  sugar  is  a little  less  than  twice 
the  weight  of  water,  or  35  parts  of  water  to  65  parts  of  sugar.  For  colder  climates 
a little  more  water  may  be  employed ; the  German  Pharmacopoeia  directs  40  parts  of 
water  to  60  parts  of  sugar.  If  the  liquid  contains  already  much  organic  matter  in 
solution  or  if  it  is  partially  alcoholic,  a correspondingly  smaller  amount  of  sugar  will 
be  required. 

A process  was  recommended  by  Isaac  Davis  (1878)  in  which  the  principle  adopted  by 
Orynski  is  still  further  extended.  Mr.  Davis  proposed  to  make  the  medicated  syrups  by 
percolating  the  powdered  drugs  with  simple  syrup  prepared  by  the  cold  process. 

(For  remarks  on  the  preparation  of  fruit-syrups  see  Syrupus  Mori  and  Syr.  Rubi 
Idjei.) 

Preservation. — The  finished  syrups  should  be  introduced  into  dry  bottles,  so  as  to 
avoid  diluting  them  with  water;  if  bottled  while  warm,  condensation  of  aqueous  vapors 
in  the  neck  of  the  bottle  will  cause  dilution  of  the  upper  stratum  and  disposition  to  fer- 
mentation, unless  the  syrup  be  thoroughly  mixed  after  cooling.  Properly  prepared, 
syrups  may  generally  be  kept  unaltered,  even  in  partially  filled  bottles,  at  the  ordinary 
temperatures,  but  it  is  best  to  keep  them  in  a place  where  the  temperature  will  not 
vary  materially  between  about  15°  and  20°  C.  (59°  and  68°  F.).  The  addition  of  small 
quantities  of  spirit  of  ether,  Hoffmann’s  anodyne,  potassium  chlorate,  and  more  recently 
of  salicylic  acid,  has  been  recommended  for  the  purpose  of  preserving  syrups ; but  all 
these  additions  are  more  or  less  objectionable,  and  generally  unnecessary  if,  in  the 
exhaustion  of  the  drug,  heat  is  avoided. 

Restoration. — When  fermentation  sets  in,  the  carbon  dioxide  disengaged  causes 
the  syrups  to  assume  a frothy  appearance,  and  a vinous  odor  is  noticed.  As  soon  as 
these  signs  make  their  appearance  the  syrup  should  be  heated  to  boiling,  strained,  and 
afterward  properly  preserved.  The  medicinally  active  principles  will  rarely  have  under- 
gone any  alteration,  except  in  the  case  of  syrups  of  acacia  and  of  almond  ; but  syrups 
which  owe  their  virtues  wholly  or  in  part  to  volatile  principles,  or  in  which  fermentation 
has  proceeded  beyond  the  incipient  stage,  cannot  be  thus  restored  without  being  impaired 
in  their  properties.  For  syrups  prone  to  fermentation  the  employment  of  glycerin  in 
place  of  a corresponding  quantity  of  liquid  and  sugar  has  been  recommended. 

Properties. — Syrups  should  be  perfectly  transparent,  with  the  few  exceptions  noted 
below.  When  heated  to  boiling  they  have  the  density  indicated  by  30°  B.  = 1.26, 


SYRUPUS.— SYRUPUS  ACIDI  CITRICI. 


1553 


F.  Cod.  At  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  the  density  of  simple  syrup  is  1.317  ( U, S .),  1.32  ( F . 
Cod.),  1.330  ( Br .),  and  most  of  the  medicated  syrups  have  about  the  same  specific 
gravity.  The  employment  of  magnesium  carbonate  in  the  preparation  of  syrups  ren- 
ders them  unfit  for  being  dispensed  with  salts  of  morphine,  strychnine,  or  other  poison- 
ous alkaloids.  (See  Aqu^e  Medicate,  p.  246.) 

SYRUPUS,  U.  8.,  Br.— Syrup. 

Syrupus  simplex,  P.  G. ; Syrupus  sacchari,  F.  Cod. ; Syr.  albus. — Simple  syrup,  E. ; Strop 
de  sucre , Strop  simple , Fr. ; Weisser  Sirup,  G. 

Preparation. — Sugar,  in  coarse  powder,  850  Gm. ; Distilled  Water  a sufficient 
quantity ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Dissolve  the  sugar,  with  the  aid  of  heat,  in  450  Cc.  of 
distilled  water,  raise  the  temperature  to  the  boiling-point,  strain  the  liquid,  and  pass 
enough  distilled  water  through  the  strainer  to  make  the  product,  when  cold,  measure 
1000  Cc.  Mix  thoroughly.—  U.  S. 

Syrup  may  also  be  prepared  in  the  following  manner  : Into  the  neck  of  a percolator  or 
funnel  of  suitable  size  fit  a tapering  piece  of  coarse,  well-cleaned  sponge,  not  too  tightly, 
and  in  such  a manner  that  the  upper  end  of  the  sponge  be  about  half  an  inch  within  the 
outlet-tube  or  stem.  Place  the  sugar  in  the  apparatus,  make  its  surface  level  without- 
shaking  or  jarring,  then  carefully  pour  on  450  Cc.  of  distilled  water,  and  regulate  the 
flow  of  the  liquid,  if  necessary,  so  that  it  will  pass  out  in  rapid  drops.  Return  the 
first  portions  of  the  percolate  until  it  runs  through  clear,  and,  when  all  the  liquid  has 
passed,  follow  it  by  distilled  water,  added  in  portions,  so  that  all  the  sugar  may  be  dis- 
solved, and  the  product  measure  1000  Cc.  Mix  thoroughly. — U.  S.  To  make  1 gallon 
of  simple  syrup  dissolve  7 lbs.  1|  av.  oz.  of  sugar  in  61  fluidounces  of  distilled  water, 
and  when  cold  add  sufficient  distilled  water  to  bring  the  volume  to  1 gallon. 

The  official  syrup  thus  prepared  has  the  specific  gravity  1.317,  and  contains  64.54  per 
cent,  of  sugar.  The  British  Pharmacopoeia  orders  5 pounds  of  sugar  and  sufficient  dis- 
tilled water  to  make  7J  pounds  of  syrup,  which  contains  66.667  per  cent,  of  sugar,  and 
is  stated  to  have  the  density  of  1.330.  The  French  Codex  orders  64.286  per  cent,  of 
sugar,  and  gives  the  density  1.32. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Simple  syrup  is  used  in  the  preparation  of  certain  confec- 
tions, mixtures,  and  syrups,  and  as  an  excipient  in  several  pill  masses. 

Uses. — Syrup — or  “ simple  syrup,”  as  it  was  formerly  anol  more  definitely  called — is 
a most  important  member  of  the  Pharmacopoeia,  not  only  because  it  preserves  medicines 
associated  with  it  from  undergoing  change,  but  because  it  renders  them  more  acceptable 
to  the  palate  and  mitigates  their  action  upon  the  alimentary  canal.  It  should,  however, 
not  be  used  in  large  doses  nor  for  a long  time  together,  lest  it  impair  the  appetite  and 
digestion.  It  may  be  employed  as  a protective  for  superficial  burns  and  abrasions. 

SYRUPUS  ACACLffi,  U.  S.— Syrup  of  Gum-Arabic. 

Syrupus  gummosus. — Sirop  de  gomme,  Fr.  ; Gummisirup,  G. 

Preparation. — -Mucilage  of  Acacia,  recently  prepared,  25  Cc.  ; Syrup  75  Cc. ; to 
make  100  Cc.  Mix  them.  This  syrup  should  be  freshly  made  when  required  for  use. 
— IT.  S. 

This  is  the  formula  of  the  P.  G.  1872,  from  the  revised  edition  of  which  this  syrup 
has  been  dismissed.  While  it  is  desirable  to  prepare  this  syrup  extemporaneously,  it 
should  be  remembered  that  mucilage  of  acacia  which  is  not  preserved  by  sugar  is  readily 
altered  on  exposure,  and  likely  to  induce  decomposition  when  used  in  mixtures  ; it  is 
therefore  important  that  the  mucilage  be  of  good  quality. 

The  formula  of  the  French  Codex  is  similar  to  the  following,  which  is  the  formula 
of  the  U.  S.  P.  1870  : Dissolve  2 troyounces  of  gum-arabic  in  8 fluidounces  of  water, 
without  heat ; then,  having  added  14  troyounces  of  sugar,  dissolve  it  with  a gentle  heat 
and  strain. 

Uses. — Syrup  of  gum-arabic  is  chiefly  used  to  aid  in  suspending  more  active  sub- 
stances in  mixtures  and  impart  an  agreeable  flavor  to  them,  as  a demulcent  in  catarrhal 
affections  of  the  throat  and  larynx,  and  as  a palatable  addition  to  drinking  water. 

SYRUPUS  ACIDI  CITRICI,  U.  8.— Syrup  of  Citric  Acid. 

Sirop  d'acide  citrique,  Sirop  de  limon,  Fr.  ; Citronsduresirup , G. 

Preparation. — Citric  Acid  10  Gm. ; Water  10  Cc. ; Spirit  of  Lemon  10  Cc. ; Syrup 

98 


1554 


SYRUP  US  ACID  I HYDRIODICI. 


a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Dissolve  the  citric  acid  in  the  water,  and  mix  the 
solution  with  500  Cc.  of  syrup.  Then  add  the  spirit  of  lemon,  and  lastly  enough  syrup 
to  make  the  product  measure  1000  Cc.  Mix  thoroughly. — U.  S. 

To  make  a quart  of  syrup  of  citric  acid  will  require  144  grains  of  citric  acid,  2\  fluid- 
drachms  each  of  water  and  spirit  of  lemon,  and  sufficient  syrup  to  bring  the  volume  of 
the  finished  product  up  to  32  fluidounces. 

Uses. — This  syrup  is  used  as  a flavoring  ingredient  chiefly.  It  is  intended  as  a sub- 
stitute for  lemon  syrup  made  from  the  recent  fruit,  for  which,  however,  it  is  by  no  means 
an  equivalent. 

SYRUPUS  ACIDI  HYDRIODICI,  U.  8.— Syrup  of  Hydriodic  Acid. 

Strop  d.  acid e iodhydrique , Fr. ; Jodw asserstojfsir up , G. 

A syrupy  liquid  containing  about  1 per  cent,  by  weight  of  absolute  hydriodic  acid, 
(HI,  molecular  weight  127.53),  or  about  1.3  Gm.  in  100  Cc. 

Preparation. — Potassium  Iodide  13  Gm. ; Potassium  Hypophosphite  1 Gm.  ; Tar- 
taric Acid  12  Gm.  ; Water  15  Cc. ; Diluted  Alcohol,  Syrup,  each,  a sufficient  quantity  to 
make  1000  Gm.  Dissolve  the  two  potassium  salts  in  the  water,  and  the  tartaric  acid 
in  25  Cc.  of  diluted  alcohol.  Mix  the  two  solutions  in  a vial,  shake  it  thoroughly,  and 
place  it  in  ice-water  for  half  an  hour,  occasionally  shaking.  Then  filter  the  mixture 
through  a small,  rapidly-acting,  white  filter,  and  carefully  wash  the  vial,  and  filter  with 
diluted  alcohol  until  the  filtrate  ceases  to  produce  more  than  a faint  cloudiness  when  a 
drop  or  two  is  allowed  to  fall  into  silver  nitrate  test-solution.  Reduce  the  filtrate,  by 
evaporation  in  a tared  capsule  on  a water-bath,  to  50  Gm.,  and  mix  it,  when  cold.,  with 
enough  syrup  to  make  the  product  weigh  1000  Gm. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 pint  of  syrup  of  hydriodic  acid  use  125  grains  of  potassium  iodide,  9.5 
grains  of  potassium  hypophosphite,  114  grains  of  tartaric  acid,  2i  fluidrachms  of  water, 
% fluidounce  of  diluted  alcohol,  and  syrup  a sufficient  quantity  ; the  dilute  solution  of 
hydriodic  acid  must  be  evaporated  to  480  grains,  and  then  sufficient  syrup  added  to 
bring  the  volume  up  to  16  fluidounces. 

The  present  official  formula  is  much  simpler  than  that  of  1880,  and  at  the  same  time 
yields  a more  permanent  preparation,  the  addition  of  a small  quantity  (0.1  per  cent,  by 
weight)  of  potassium  hypophosphite  tending  to  improve  the  stability  of  the  syrup. 
Though  we  have  no  proof  that  the  potassium  hypophosphite  remains  unaffected  by  the 
tartaric  acid,  the  Pharmacopoeia  assumes  such  to  be  the  case,  and  directs  a quantity  of 
potassium  iodide  and  tartaric  acid  sufficient  to  yield  10  Gm.  of  hydriodic  acid,  according 
to  the  following  equation:  KI  -f  H2C4H406  = HI  + KHC4H406.  The  acid  potassium 
tartrate,  being  insoluble  in  cold  diluted  alcohol,  is  precipitated,  while  the  acid  remains  in 
solution,  and  is  obtained  by  filtration  and  subsequent  washing  of  the  precipitate  with 
diluted  alcohol.  1000  Gm.  of  the  finished  syrup  will  measure  very  nearly  762  Cc.,  or 
about  25f  fluidounces,  and  contains  in  each  Cc.  about  0.013  Gm.,  or  in  each  fluidrachm 
about  f grain  of  hydriodic  acid. 

Properties. — This  syrup  is  described  as  “ a transparent,  colorless,  or  not  more  than 
pale  straw-colored  liquid,  odorless,  having  a sweet  and  acidulous  taste  ” ; spec.  grav.  about 
1.313  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.).  If  a small  portion  of  the  syrup  be  mixed  with  a little  starch 
solution  and  a few  drops  of  chlorine-water  then  added,  the  liquid  will  acquire  a deep-blue 
color. — U.  S.  Sugar  will  in  a measure,  but  not  completely,  prevent  the  oxidation  of  the 
acid  and  the  liberation  of  iodine ; hence  a pale  straw-color  of  the  otherwise  colorless 
syrup  is  permitted. 

Tests. — “ Gelatinized  starch  added  to  the  syrup  should  not  impart  to  it  more  than  a 
faint  bluish  tint  (limit  of  free  iodine).  Test-solution  of  silver  nitrate  produces  a pale- 
yellow  precipitate  which  is  nearly  insoluble  in  water  of  ammonia.  If  32  (31.88)  Gm. 
of  the  syrup  be  exactly  neutralized  by  ammonia-water,  and  then  mixed  with  2 drops  of 
potassium  chromate  test-solution,  it  should  require  about  25  Cc.  of  decinormal  silver 
nitrate  solution  to  produce  a permanent  red  tint  of  silver  chromate  (corresponding  to 
about  1 per  cent,  of  absolute  hydriodic  acid).” — U S. 

Uses. — As  was  mentioned  under  Hydriodic  Acid,  the  virtues  of  that  compound  are 
chiefly  of  a local  stimulant  and  caustic  nature  : the  evidence  of  its  utility  as  an  interna) 
medicine  are,  in  our  judgment,  too  slender  to  entitle  it  to 'an  officinal  position  in  the  com- 
paratively stable  form  of  a syrup.  The  dose  of  the  syrup  is  stated  to  be  Gm.  4 (f&j), 
largely  diluted.  It  has  been  given  in  chronic  bronchitis , chronic  malarial  poisoning,  etc. 
It  appears  to  be  a superfluous  addition  to  the  Pharmacopoeia. 


SYRUPUS  ALLIL—SYRUPUS  AMYGDALA. 


1555 


SYRUPUS  ALLEE,  U.  S.— Syrup  of  Garlic. 

Sir  op  d'  ail,  Fr. ; Knoblauchsirup.  G. 

Preparation. — Fresh  Garlic,  sliced  and  bruised,  200  Gm. ; Sugar  800  Gm.  ; Diluted 
Acetic  Acid  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Macerate  the  garlic  with  300  Cc. 
of  diluted  acetic  acid  during  four  days,  and  express  the  liquid,  avoiding  the  use  of 
metallic  utensils.  Then  mix  the  residue  with  200  Cc.  more  of  diluted  acetic  acid,  and 
again  express.  Mix  the  expressed  liquids  and  filter.  Pour  the  filtrate  upon  the  sugar 
contained  in  a suitable  vessel,  and  stir  or  agitate  until  the  sugar  is  dissolved.  Lastly, 
add  enough  diluted  acetic  acid  to  make  the  product  measure  1000  Cc..  and  mix  thoroughly. 
Keep  the  syrup  in  well-stoppered,  completely-filled  bottles  in  a cool  place. — IT.  S. 

Syrup  of  garlic  may  also  be  prepared  in  the  following  manner  : Prepare  a percolator 
or  funnel  in  the  manner  described  under  Syrupus.  Pour  the  filtrate  obtained  as  directed 
in  the  preceding  formula  upon  the  sugar,  return  the  first  portions  of  the  percolate,  until 
it  runs  through  clear,  and,  when  all  the  liquid  has  passed  follow  it  by  diluted  acetic  acid 
until  the  product  measures  1000  Cc.  Mix  thoroughly. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  syrup  of  garlic  prepare  14  fluidounces  of  an  acetous  infusion  by 
treating  6f  av.  ozs.  of  fresh  garlic  with  dilute  acetic  acid  a sufficient  quantity  ; add  261 
av.  ozs.  of  sugar,  and  finally  enough  diluted  acetic  acid  to  bring  the  volume  up  to  32 
fluidounces. 

Thus  prepared,  syrup  of  garlic  is  somewhat  opalescent  and  has  the  odor  of  the  drug  in 
a marked  degree. 

Uses. — This  is  the  form  in  which  garlic  is  generally  employed  internally.  It  is  very 
commonly  used  in  subacute  and  chronic  catarrhs  of  the  respiratory  passages  in  children 
and  infants,  and  particularly  in  the  decline  of  whooping  cough.  The  dose  is  about  Gm.  4 
(«)• 


SYRUPUS  ALTH^IjE,  U.  S.,  P.  G.— Syrup  op  Althea. 

Syrup  of  mdrshmallow,  E. ; Sirop  de  guimauve,  Fr.  ; Eibischsaft,  G. 

Preparation. — Althaea,  cut  into  small  pieces,  50  Gm. ; Alcohol  30  Cc. ; Glycerin 
100  Cc. ; Sugar  700  Gm. ; Water  a sufficient  quantity;  to  make  1000  Cc.  Wash  the 
althaea  with  cold  water,  then  macerate  it  with  400  Cc.  of  water,  previously  mixed  with 
the  alcohol,  during  one  hour,  stirring  frequently,  and  strain  without  expressing.  In  the 
strained  liquid  dissolve  the  sugar  by  agitation,  without  heat,  add  the  glycerin,  and 
enough  water  to  make  the  product  measure  1000  Cc.,  and  mix  thoroughly. 

Keep  the  syrup  in  well-stoppered,  completely  filled  bottles  in  a cool  place.  This 
preparation  does  not  keep  well.  Unless  in  constant  demand,  it  should  be  freshly  made 
when  required. — IT.  S. 

This  is  the  formula  of  the  P.  G.,  with  the  marshmallow-root  somewhat  increased,  and 
the  addition  of  glycerin  equal  to  one-tenth  of  the  total  volume  of  finished  product, 
whereby  it  is  intended  to  improve  the  stability  of  the  syrup.  Cold  water  must  be  used 
for  maceration  to  avoid  dissolving  the  starch,  but  the  duration  of  maceration  may  very 
properly  be  prolonged  for  one  or  two  hours. 

The  syrup  has  a yellowish  color  and  a slight  agreeable  odor. 

To  prepare  I pint  of  syrup  of  marshmallow  macerate  195  grains  of  washed  althaea-root 
for  one  or  two  hours,  stirring  occasionally,  in  a mixture  of  3£  fluidounces  of  cold  water 
and  2 fluidrachms  of  alcohol ; strain  without  expression,  and  in  the  strained  liquid  dis- 
solve 6 av.  ozs.  of  sugar,  finally  adding  7 fluidrachms  of  glycerin  and  sufficient  water  to 
bring  the  volume  up  to  8 fluidounces. 

Uses. — This  syrup  is  universally  employed  in  France  to  sweeten  ptisans  used  in  sore 
throat  and  inflammations  of  the  air-passages. 

SYRUPUS  AMYGDALA,  XT.  S.— Syrup  of  Almond. 

Syrupus  amygdalarum , P.  G.  ; Syr.  emulsivus , Sirop  d’amande,  Sirop  d' orgeat,  Fr. ; 
Mandelsirup,  G. 

Preparation. — Sweet  Almond  140  Gm. ; Bitter  Almond  40  Gm. ; Sugar  200  Gm.; 
Orange-flower  Water  100  Cc. ; Water  130  Cc. ; Syrup,  a sufficient  quantity ; to  make 
1000  Cc.  Having  blanched  the  almonds,  rub  them  in  a mortar  to  a very  fine  paste, 
adding  during  the  trituration  30  Cc.  of  water  and  100  Gm.  of  sugar.  Mix  the  paste 


1556 


SYRUPUS  A UR  A NTII. 


thoroughly  with  the  orange-flower  water  and  200  Cc.  of  syrup;  strain  with  strong 
expression,  and  add  100  Cc.  of  water  to  the  dregs  and  express  again.  To  the  strained 
liquid  add  the  remainder  of  the  sugar,  dissolve  it  by  agitation  without  heat,  and  add 
enough  syrup  to  make  the  product  measure  1000  Cc.  Keep  the  syrup  in  well-stoppered, 
filled  bottles  in  a cool  place. — TJ.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  syrup  of  almond  prepare  a paste  of  4|  av.  ozs.  of  sweet  and  600 
grains  of  bitter  almond  (blanched),  with  1 fluidounc-e  of  water  and  31  av.  ozs.  of  sugar ; 
mix  well  with  6 fluidounces  of  syrup  and  3 fluidounces  of  orange-flower  water,  and 
strain.  To  the  residue  add  21  fluidounces  of  water,  and  express  again.  To  the  strained 
liquid  add  31  av.  ozs.  of  sugar  and  sufficient  syrup  to  bring  the  volume  up  to  32  fluid- 
ounces. 

This  formula  is  modified  after  that  of  the  French  Codex,  but  endeavors  to  avoid 
heat  by  dissolving  the  sugar  by  agitation  or  percolation.  The  syrup  is  whitish  and 
opaque,  and  in  order  to  obtain  it  free  from  dark  color  the  integuments  of  the  seeds  must 
be  completely  removed,  for  which  purpose  the  almonds  are  for  a few  minutes  steeped  in 
warm  water. 

Uses. — Almond  or  orgeat  syrup  is  an  agreeable  addition  to  expectorant  and  diuretic 
mixtures,  and  is  possibly  a feeble  sedative  of  mild  forms  of  febrile  and  nervous  disorder 
through  the  minute  proportion  of  hydrocyanic  acid  it  contains.  It  is  much  used,  mixed 
with  water,  in  irritation  of  the  urinary  passages. 


SYRUPUS  AURANTII,  77.  8:,  Br.— Syrup  of  Orange. 

Syrupus  aurantii  corticis , P.  G. — Syrup  of  orange-peel , E. ; Strop  d'ecorce  d' orange 
amere,  Fr. ; Pomeranzenschalensirup,  G. 

Preparation. — Sweet  Orange-peel,  taken  from  the  fresh  fruit,  50  Gm. ; Precipitated 
Calcium  Phosphate  50  Gm. ; Sugar  700  Gm. ; Alcohol,  Water,  each,  a sufficient  quantity; 
to  make  1000  Cc.  Introduce  the  sweet  orange-peel  (which  should  be  as  free  as  possible 
from  the  white  inner  layer,  and  cut  into  small  shreds)  into  a flask,  and  add  80  Cc.  of 
alcohol.  Stopper  the  flask  loosely  with  a cork,  apply  the  heat  of  a water-bath  until 
the  alcohol  boils,  and  maintain  it  boiling  during  five  minutes,  with  repeated  agitation. 
Then  stopper  the  flask  well  and  set  it  aside  to  cool.  Filter  off"  the  liquid,  and  wash  the 
filter  and  contents  with  alcohol  until  the  filtrate  measures  100  Cc.  Mix  the  precipitated 
calcium  phosphate  in  a mortar  with  150  Gm.  of  sugar,  and  add  the  tincture  under  con- 
stant trituration  ; to  the  resulting  pasty  mass  add  300  Cc.  of  water,  triturating  constantly, 
transfer  the  whole  to  a filter,  and  return  the  first  portions  of  the  filtrate,  if  necessary, 
until  it  runs  through  clear.  In  the  filtrate  dissolve  the  remainder  of  the  sugar,  and 
add  enough  water,  through  the  filter,  until  the  product  measures  1000  Cc.  Mix 
thoroughly. — TJ.  S. 

As  tincture  of  fresh  orange-peel,  if  made  with  deodorized  alcohol,  will  retain  its 
original  pure  flavor,  it  will  prove  very  convenient  to  keep  on  hand  a concentrated 
tincture  made  according  to  the  above  directions,  and  each  pint  of  which  will  represent 
3650  grains  of  the  fresh  orange-peel. 

To  make  1 quart  of  syrup  of  orange  mix  3 fluidounces  and  96  minims  of  the  con- 
centrated tincture  of  orange-peel  with  1|  av.  ozs.  of  calcium  phosphate  and  5 av.  ozs.  of 
sugar;  add  with  constant  trituration  fluidounces  of  water  and  filter;  in  the  clear 
filtrate  dissolve  18^  av.  ozs.  of  sugar,  and  add  enough  water  to  bring  the  volume  up  to 
32  fluidounces. 

Tincture  of  orange-peel  1 fluidounce  ; syrup  7 fluidounces.  Mix. — Br. 

The  corresponding  syrups  of  the  French  and  German  Pharmacopoeias  are  made  with 
bitter  orange-peel,  which,  according  to  the  former  authority,  is  exhausted  with  alcohol  of 
6 per  cent.,  and,  according  to  the  latter,  with  white  wine ; in  the  tincture  thus  obtained 
the  sugar  is  dissolved.  The  U.  S.  P.  makes  the  syrup  from  fresh  sweet  orange-peel,  the 
volatile  oil  of  which,  together  with  some  coloring  matter,  is  dissolved  by  maceration  with 
alcohol  and  expression  ; this  tincture  is  treated  in  a manner  similar  to  the  volatile  oils  in 
the  preparation  of  medicated  waters  (see  page  247).  Syrup  of  orange  has  a yellowish 
color  and  an  agreeable  odor  and  taste. 

Uses. — This  syrup  is  merely  an  agreeable  flavoring  ingredient  of  medicinal  mixtures. 
Its  more  decided  taste,  as  compared  with  that  of  lemon  and  other  official  syrups,  consti- 
tutes its  special  advantage. 


SYRUPUS  AURANTII  FLORUM.— SYRUPUS  CALCII  LACTOPHOSPIIATIS.  1557 


SYRUPUS  AURANTII  FLORUM,  77.  S. — Syrup  of  Orange-flowers. 

Syrupus  aurantiifioris , Br. — Strop  de  fleur  d'oranger , Fr. ; Pomeranzenbluthensirup , G. 

Preparation. — Sugar  850  Gm. ; Orange-flower  Water,  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make 
1000  Cc.  Dissolve  the  sugar  in  450  Cc.  of  orange-flower  water  by  agitation,  without 
heat,  add  enough  orange-flower  water  to  make  the  product  measure  1000  Cc.,  and  mix 
thoroughly. — U.  S. 

Syruj)  of  Orange-flowers  may  also  be  prepared  in  the  following  manner : Prepare  a 
percolator  or  funnel  in  the  manner  described  under  Syiiup.  Pour  450  Cc.  of  orange- 
flower  water  upon  the  sugar,  return  the  first  portions  of  the  percolate  until  it  runs  through 
clear,  and,  when  all  the  liquid  has  passed,  follow  it  by  orange-flower  water  until  the 
product  measures  1000  Cc.  Mix  thoroughly. — -U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  syrup  of  orange-flowers  dissolve  281  av.  ozs.  of  sugar  in  141  fluid- 
ounces  of  orange-flower  water,  and  add  sufficient  of  the  latter  to  bring  the  volume  of  the 
solution  up  to  32  fluidounces. 

Dissolve  3 pounds  of  refined  sugar  in  16  fluidounces  of  distilled  water  with  the  aid  of 
heat ; strain,  and  when  nearly  cold  add  8 fluidounces  of  orange-flower  water  and  sufficient 
distilled  water  to  make  the  product  weigh  41  pounds. — Br. 

Uses. — Syrup  of  orange-flowers  is  a pleasant  flavoring  agent,  with  a possibility  of 
exercising  a slight  sedative  influence  upon  morbidly  sensitive  persons,  since  one-third  of 
it  consists  of  orange-flower  water. 

SYRUPUS  CALCII  LACTOPHOSPHATIS,  77.  S.— Syrup  of  Calcium 

Lactophosphate. 

Strop  de  lactophosphate  ( phospho-lactate ) de  chaux , Fr. ; Calciumphospholactatsirup,  G. 

Preparation. — Precipitated  Calcium  Carbonate  25  Gm. ; Lactic  Acid  60  Cc. ; 
Phosphoric  Acid  36  Cc.  ; Orange-flower  Water  25  Cc. ; Sugar  700  Gm. ; Water  a 
sufficient  quantity;  to  make  1000  Cc.  To  the  lactic  acid,  mixed  with  100  Cc.  of  water 
and  contained  in  a capacious  mortar,  gradually  add  the  calcium  carbonate,  in  portions, 
until  it  is  dissolved.  Then  add  the  phosphoric  acid,  and  triturate  until  the  precipitate  at 
first  formed  has  disappeared.  Add  150  Cc.  of  water,  and  filter,  rinsing  the  mortar  with 
75  Cc.  of  water,  and  passing  the  rinsings  through  the  filter.  To  the  mixed  filtrates  add 
the  orange-flower  water,  and,  having  added  the  sugar,  dissolve  it  by  agitation  without 
heat,  and  strain.  Lastly,  pass  enough  water  through  the  strainer  to  make  the  product 
measure  1000  Cc.,  and  mix  thoroughly. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  syrup  of  calcium  lactophosphate  dissolve  366  grains  of  precipitated 
calcium  carbonate  in  15J  fluidrachms  of  lactic  acid  diluted  with  26  fluidrachms  of 
water ; add  1 fluidounce  and  72  minims  of  phosphoric  acid,  and  triturate  until  perfect 
solution  is  effected.  Now  add  38  fluidrachms  of  water,  filter,  and  wash  filter  with  19 
fluidrachms  of  water ; to  the  filtrate  add  6 fluidrachms  of  orange-flower  water  and  23? 
av.  ozs.  of  sugar.  Shake  until  dissolved,  strain,  and  add  sufficient  water  through  the 
strainer  to  bring  the  volume  up  to  32  fluidounces. 

The  present  Pharmacopoeia  formula  is  a great  improvement  over  that  of  1880 : cal- 
cium carbonate  is  readily  dissolved  by  the  diluted  lactic  acid,  and  upon  the  addition  of 
phosphoric  acid  calcium  phosphate  is  formed,  which  is  held  in  solution  by  the  lactic 
acid  and  excess  of  phosphoric  acid  present.  Each  Cc.  of  the  finished  syrup  contains  the 
equivalent  of  0.02584  Gm.,  or  each  fluidrachm  the  equivalent  of  1.48  grains,  of  trical- 
cium phosphate  (Ca3(P04)2). 

The  formula  of  the  French  Codex  (1884)  is  as  follows  : Dissolve  12.5  Gm.  of  calcium 
phosphate  in  sufficient  (14  Gm.)  of  concentrated  lactic  acid  and  340  Gm.  of  water ; 630 
Gm.  of  sugar  are  dissolved  in  the  liquid,  and  10  Gm.  of  essence  of  lemon  added. 
Replacing  the  lactic  acid  by  a sufficient  quantity  of  hydrochloric  acid,  strop  de  chlorhy- 
drophosphate  de  chaux  is  obtained.  Strop  de  phosphate  acide  de  chaux  is  made  in  the 
same  manner,  using  sufficient  phosphoric  acid  for  dissolving  the  calcium  salt. 

Uses. — -Not  the  least  evidence  exists  that  this  preparation  is  endowed  with  medicinal 
virtues.  It  is  intended  especially  to  act  as  a reconstituent,  but  the  proportion  of  lime  con- 
tained in  it  is  so  minute  that  its  action,  of  any  sort,  must  be  quite  illusory.  Moreover, 
as  the  greater  part  of  the  compound  consists  of  sugar,  it  tends  to  produce  or  to  prolong 
the  gastric  fermentation  that  exists  in  cases  which  require  the  use  of  true  reconstituents. 
The  dose  of  this  preparation  is  at  the  option  of  the  prescribe^  from  a teaspoonful  to  a 
wine-glassful,  diluted. 


1558 


SYRUPUS  CALCTS.—SYE UPUS  FEREI  IODWL 


SYRUPUS  CALCIS,  77.  8.— Syrup  of  Lime. 

Liquor  calcis  saccharatus,  Br. ; Syrupus  calc  arise,. — Saccharated  solution  of  lime , E. ; 
Strop  de  chaux,  Fr. ; Kalksirup , G. 

Preparation. — Lime  65  Gm.  ; Sugar  400  Gm. ; Water  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make 
1000  Cc.  Triturate  the  lime  and  sugar  thoroughly  in  a mortar,  so  as  to  form  a homoge- 
neous powder ; then  add  the  mixture  to  500  Cc.  of  boiling  water,  contained  in  a bright 
copper  or  tinned  iron  vessel ; boil  for  five  minutes,  constantly  stirring,  and  then  strain.  Let 
the  strained  liquid  stand  for  twenty-four  hours,  decant  the  clear  portion,  add  to  it 
enough  water  to  make  the  product  measure  1000  Cc.,  and  mix  thoroughly.  Keep  the 
syrup  in  well-stoppered  bottles. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  syrup  of  lime  use  2 av.  ozs.  of  lime,  13J  av.  ozs.  of  sugar,  and 
16  fluidounces  of  boiling  water  ; after  straining  and  decanting  the  clear  liquid  add  enough 
water  to  bring  the  volume  up  to  32  fluidounces. 

Take  of  slaked  lime  1 ounce  ; refined  sugar,  in  powder,  2 ounces ; distilled  water  1 
pint.  Mix  the  lime  and  the  sugar  by  trituration  in  a mortar.  Transfer  the  mixture  to 
a bottle  containing  the  water,  and,  having  closed  this  with  a cork,  shake  it  occasionally 
for  a few  hours.  Finally,  separate  the  clear  solution  with  a siphon,  avoiding  unnecessary 
exposure  to  the  air,  and  keep  it  in  a well-stoppered  bottle. — Br. 

Water  containing  sugar  dissolves  a larger  quantity  of  lime  than  pure  water.  Peligot 
ascertained  the  solubility  for  100  parts  of  sugar  in  solutions  of  40  per  cent,  to  be  26.57 
parts;  20  per  cent.,  only  23.15  parts;  and  in  solutions  of  5 per  cent.,  only  18.06  parts 
of  lime.  According  to  these  observations,  the  first  formula  must  yield  a preparation 
very  much  stronger  in  lime  than  that  of  the  Br.  P.  Cane-sugar  boiled  with  a strong 
solution  of  an  alkali  is  gradually  turned  brown,  while  weak  alkaline  liquids  have  very 
little  effect  upon  it  (Hochstetter,  1843)  ; and  a concentrated  solution  of  cane-sugar 
may  be  boiled  with  lime  for  a long  time  before  decomposition  commences  (Dubrunfaut, 
Soubeiran). 

This  preparation  is  a thin,  syrupy,  colorless  liquid,  and  has  a bitter  alkaline  and  some- 
what sweet  taste  and  an  alkaline  reaction.  On  exposure  to  air  it  absorbs  carbon  dioxide, 
and  must  therefore  be  preserved  in  well-stoppered  bottles.  Prepared  according  to  the  Br. 
P.,  it  has  the  specific  gravity  1.052,  and  460.2  grains  (1  fluidounce)  require  for  neutrali- 
zation 254  grain-measures  of  volumetric  solution  of  oxalic  acid,  which  corresponds  to  7.11 
grains  of  lime  in  1 fluidounce  (Imperial),  or  1.546  per  cent,  of  CaO. 

The  strength  of  the  official  syrup  is  uncertain  ; it  is  unfortunate  that  the  U.  S.  Phar- 
macopoeia has  not  fixed  the  proportion  of  lime  to  be  contained  in  the  finished  product. 

Uses. — The  benefits  which  the  lime  in  this  preparation  is  fitted  to  produce  are  more 
or  less  prevented  by  the  associated  sugar.  For  all  useful  purposes  pure  lime-nvater  is  to 
be  preferred.  In  Germany  it  has  been  recommended  in  poisoning  by  certain  acids,  as 
carbolic  and  oxalic  acids.  Its  dose  is  not  fixed,  but  may  be  stated  at  a teaspoonful  or 
more,  diluted. 

SYRUPUS  CHLORAL,  Br.— Syrup  of  Chloral. 

Sirop  de  chloral , Fr.  ; Cldoralhydratsirup , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Chloral  Hydrate  80  grains;  Distilled  Water  1^  fluidrachms  ; 
Simple  Syrup  a sufficiency.  Dissolve  the  chloral  hydrate  in  the  water,  and  add  the  syrup 
until  the  mixed  product  measures  a fluidounce. — Br. 

The  syrup  of  the  F.  Cod.  contains  only  5 per  cent,  of  chloral  hydrate,  and  is  flavored 
with  spirit  of  peppermint. 

Uses. — This  preparation  is  a convenient  vehicle  for  the  administration  of  chloral  in 
definite  doses.  Each  fluidrachm  of  it  contains  10  grains  of  chloral  hydrate.  The  ordi- 
nary dose  is  Gm.  2-4  (fgss-j). 

SYRUPUS  FERRI  IODIDI,  77.  8.,  Br.— Syrup  of  Ferrous  Iodide. 

Syrupus  ferri  iodati , P.  G.  ; Syrup  of  iodide  of  iron , E. ; Sirop  d’iodure  de  fer , Fr. ; 
Eisenjod ur  sirup , G. 

A syrupy  liquid,  containing  10  per  cent,  by  weight  of  ferrous  iodide  (Fel2;  molecular 
weight  308.94)  or  about  13.4  Gm.  in  100  Cc. 

Preparation. — Iron,  in  the  form  of  fine  bright  wire  and  cut  into  small  pieces,  25 
Gm.  ; Iodine  83  Gm.  ; Syrup,  Distilled  Water,  each,  a sufficient  quantity ; to  make  1000 


SYR  CPUS  FERRI  IODIDI. 


1559 


Gm.  Introduce  the  iron  into  a flask  of  thin  glass  having  a capacity  of  about  500  Cc. ; 
add  to  it  150  Cc.  of  distilled  water,  and  afterward  the  iodine.  Shake  the  mixture  occa- 
sionally, checking  the  reaction,  if  necessary,  by  the  affusion  of  cold  water,  and,  when  the 
solution  has  acquired  a greenish  color  and  has  lost  the  odor  of  iodine,  heat  it  to  boiling. 
Then  filter  it  through  a strong,  double,  rapidly-acting  filter  placed  in  a funnel,  the  stem 
of  which  dips  below  the  surface  of  600  Gm.  of  syrup  contained  in  a tared  flask.  When 
the  liquid  has  run  through,  Wash  the  flask  and  filter  with  a mixture  of  25  Cc.  each  of  syrup 
and  distilled  water,  previously  raised  to  near  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  ; then  withdraw  the  fun- 
nel, add  enough  syrup  to  make  the  product  weigh  1000  Gm.,  and  mix  thoroughly.  Keep 
the  syrup  in  small,  well-stoppered,  and  completely  filled  bottles  in  a place  accessible  to 
daylight. — TJ.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  syrup  of  ferrous  iodide  use  493  grains  of  iron  wire,  3f  av.  ozs.  of 
iodine,  and  6£  fluidounces  of  distilled  water  : filter  the  pale-green  solution  of  ferrous 
iodide  into  20  fluidounces  of  syrup,  wash  the  filter  with  2 fluidounces  of  a mixture  of 
equal  volumes  of  syrup  and  distilled  water,  and  finally  add  sufficient  syrup  to  bring  the 
volume  of  the  finished  product  up  to  32  fluidounces. 

On  bringing  iodine  together  with  an  excess  of  iron  in  the  presence  of  water,  ferrous 
iodide  is  formed  and  dissolves  with  a pale-green  color.  This  compound  has  the  formula 
FeL>,  and  contains  very  nearly  82  per  cent,  of  iodi-ne.  The  aqueous  solution,  which 
should  not  be  filtered  until  it  has  a pale-green  color  entirely  free  from  any  brown  tint,  is 
prone  to  change,  but  when  protected  by  sugar,  as  proposed  by  Frederking  (1839)  and 
preserved  with  some  precautions,  it  keeps  unaltered.  The  details  of  the  process  given 
above  are  very  similar  to  those  of  the  British  and  German  Pharmacopoeias,  both  author- 
ities directing  the  solution  of  ferrous  iodide  to  be  filtered  into  syrup,  in  which  it  sinks, 
owing  to  its  greater  density,  and  is  thus  perfectly  protected  against  the  oxidizing  influ- 
ence of  the  air.  The  strength  of  this  syrup  varies  in  the  different  pharmacopoeias,  that 
of  the  French  Codex  being  much  weaker  than  the  others  : 1 part  of  iodine  (=  1.2  + part 
of  ferrous  iodide)  is  represented  by  about  12.2  ( TJ.  &.),  21.5  (i?r.),  24.4  (P.  6r.),  and 
244  ( F . Cod.)  parts  of  the  syrup  ; or  1000  parts  of  the  syrup  contain  83  (U.  $.),  46.5 
( Br .),  41  (P.  G.),  and  4.10  (P.  Cod.)  parts  of  iodine. 

Properties. — Syrup  of  ferrous  iodide  is  transparent,  pale-green,  nearly  inodorous, 
and  has  a sweet,  strongly  ferruginous  taste  and  a slightly  acid  (neutral,  TJ.  S.)  reaction. 
It  shows  the  behavior  of  solutions  of  ferrous  salts  (see  page  744),  and  the  addition  of  a 
little  bromine-water  liberates  iodine,  which  has  to  solvents  and  to  starch  the  behavior 
described  on  page  888.  On  exposure  to  the  air  the  color  of  the  syrup  slowly  changes  to 
yellow  and  afterward  to  brown,  the  change  of  color  proceeding  from  the  exposed  surface 
downward.  Diffused  daylight  seems  to  somewhat  accelerate  the  decomposition,  but 
exposure  to  the  direct  sunlight  entirely  prevents  the  change,  or,  if  it  has  taken  place, 
restores  the  original  color,  and  finally  renders  the  syrup  colorless.  The  effects  of  oxida- 
tion become  manifest  first  by  the  production  of  ferric  compound,  and  soon  afterward  by 
the  liberation  of  iodine,  recognized  by  the  blue  color  produced  with  starch-paste. 
Numerous  suggestions  have  been  made  with  a view  of  preventing  the  discoloration  of 
the  syrup,  such  as  the  use  of  deoxidizing  agents,  bright  iron  wire,  etc. ; but  the  best 
results  seem  to  have  been  obtained  by  using  glucose  in  place  of  one-half  of  the  simple 
syrup.  G.  H.  C.  Klie  exposed  syrup  thus  prepared  in  half-filled  pint  bottles  to  diffused 
daylight  for  months,  without  noting  any  apparent  change.  The  specific  gravity  of  the 
official  syrup  is  about  1.353  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  ; each  Cc.  contains  about  0.134  Gm.,  or 
each  teaspoonful  (fluidrachm)  about  7.81  -|-  grains,  of  ferrous  iodide.  On  adding  a few 
drops  of  potassium  ferricyanide  solution  to  the  syrup  a blue  precipitate  will  be  produced. 

Syrups  of  the  density  of  the  above  official  syrups  are  not  easily  affected  by  exposure 
to  the  air,  and  we  have  known  them  to  be  kept  in  half-filled  vials  for  months  without 
apparent  change.  But  if,  from  want  of  attention  to  the  details  of  the  process,  the  syrup 
should  become  colored  from  iodine,  we  prefer  to  restore  it  by  addition  of  bright  iron  wire 
and  exposure  to  sunlight,  in  preference  to  using  a thiosulphate  or  other  deoxidizing 
agents,  which  have  been  recommended  for  this  purpose. 

Should  the  iron  used  in  preparing  the  solution  of  ferrous  iodide  be  contaminated  with 
other  metals,  these  are  likely  to  be  dissolved.  We  have  occasionally  observed  the  syrup 
to  contain  a minute  quantity  of  copper.  On  evaporating  the  syrup  with  due  care  to 
dryness,  a yellowish-white  powder  is  obtained,  which  is  again  soluble  in  water,  yielding 
a slightly  turbid  solution  (see  page  731). 

Tests. — Syrup  of  ferrous  iodide  should  not  impart  a blue  tinge  to  gelatinized  starch 
(absence  of  free  iodine,  TJ.  >Sy.),  but  after  the  addition  of  a few  drops  of  chlorine-water  a 


1560 


SYRUPUS  FERRI  PIIOSPHA  TIS. 


deep  blue  color  will  be  developed.  “If  1.55  Gm.  (1.5447  Gm.)  of  the  syrup  and  10  Cc. 
of  water  be  introduced  into  a flask,  and  the  liquid  mixed  successively  with  11  Cc.  of 
decinormal  silver  nitrate  solution,  and  5 Cc.  each  of  diluted  nitric  acid  and  ferric  ammo- 
nium sulphate  test-solution,  it  should  not  require  more  than  about  1 Cc.  of  decinormal 
potassium  sulphocyanate  solution  to  produce  a reddish-brown  tint,  which  persists  after 
shaking  (corresponding  to  about  10  per  cent,  of  ferrous  iodide).” — U.  S.  This  test  is 
intended  to  show  the  exact  quantity  of  decinormal  silver  nitrate  solution  necessary  to 
precipitate  completely  the  prescribed  quantity  of  syrup ; each  Cc.  of  the  silver  solution 
corresponds  to  0.015447  Gm.  of  ferrous  iodide,  as  showTn  by  the  equation  Fel2(308.94)  -f- 
2AgNO3(339.10)  = 2AgI(468.38)  + Fe(N03)2(179.66).  The  excess  of  silver  nitrate 
solution  added  is  ascertained  by  residual  titration  with  potassium  sulphocyanate  in  the 
presence  of  ferric  alum;  after  all  iodine  has  been  precipitated  as  silver  iodide,  the  remain- 
ing silver  nitrate  is  thrown  down  as  white  sulphocyanate,  and  then  the  reddish-brown 
color  of  ferric  sulphocyanate  becomes  permanent. 

The  syrup  of  the  French  Codex  is  flavored  with  orange-flower  water  and  contains 
gum  ; the  solution  of  ferrous  iodide  is  filtered,  afterward  mixed  with  syrup,  and  finally 
protected  from  the  light. 

Allied  Preparations. — Syrupus  ferri  bromidi,  U.  S.  1880. — Syrup  of  ferrous  bromide. — This 
syrup  should  contain  10  per  cent,  by  weight  of  ferrous  bromide,  and  may  be  prepared  by  adding 
3 av.  ozs.  of  bromine  to  8 fluidounces  of  distilled  water  contained  in  a flask,  and  then  gradually 
adding  11  av.  ozs.  of  bright  fine  iron  wire  cut  into  small  pieces  ; the  iron  should  be  added  a little 
at  a time,  and  the  reaction  allowed  to  subside  before  each  new  addition.  When  the  solution  has 
become  pale-green  and  free  from  all  reddish  tint,  it  may  be  filtered,  and  the  flask  and  filter  well 
washed  with  3J  fluidounces  of  distilled  water  ; after  the  addition  of  24  av.  ozs.  of  sugar  the  mix- 
ture is  well  stirred  and  heated  to  the  boiling-point  and  strained.  To  the  syrup,  when  cool, 
enough  distilled  water  is  added  to  bring  the  weight  of  finished  product  up  to  40  av.  ozs.  (about 
28  fluidounces).  If  no  bromine  is  lost  during  the  operation,  the  syrup  will  contain  about  63 
grains  of  ferrous  bromide  in  each  fluidounce,  or  very  nearly  8 grains  in  each  teaspoonful. 

Syrupus  ferri  citro-iodidi,  N.  F.,  Syrup  of  citro-iodide  of  iron,  Tasteless  syrup  of  iodide  of 
iron. — Mix  200  grains  of  finely-cut  bright  iron  wire  with  4 fluidounces  of  distilled  water  in  a 
flask ; add  267  grains  of  iodine,  and  set  aside  until  a clear  pale-green  solution  is  obtained ; heat 
to  boiling  and  filter.  To  the  filtrate  add  620  grains  of  potassium  citrate  and  133  grains  of  iodine, 
and  set  aside  until  the  liquid  has  assumed  a deep-green  color ; pour  it  upon  10  troyounces  of 
sugar  contained  in  a bottle,  shake  until  solution  is  complete,  and  add  enough  distilled  water  to 
bring  the  volume  up  to  16  fluidounces.  Each  fluidrachm  contains  an  amount  of  iron  corre- 
sponding to  about  3.6  grains  of  ferric  iodide. 

Uses. — In  the  treatment  of  scrofula , especially  of  the  glandular  form,  in  those 
numerous  cases  in  which  anaemia  is  owing  to  scrofula,  tuberculosis,  or  syphilis,  and  in 
chronic  affections  of  the  skin , chronic  rheumatism , amenorrhoea  from  exhaustion,  leucor- 
rhoea , etc.,  this  compound  was  at  one  time  greatly  in  vogue.  It  is  now  thought  very 
probable  that  its  alleged  virtues  in  the  greater  number  of  those  diseases  depended  more 
upon  the  iron  than  upon  the  iodine  in  its  composition.  It  has  the  disadvantage  of  being 
the  least  agreeable  in  its  taste  of  all  the  officinal  preparations  of  iron.  It  may  be  given 
in  doses  of  Gm.  0.50—2.50  (gtt.  x— xl)  after  meals.  It  should  be  largely  diluted  with 
water,  and  taken  through  a tube  to  prevent  its  injuring  the  teeth.  As  an  additional 
precaution  the  mouth  should  be  rinsed  with  water  after  each  dose. 

SYRUPUS  FERRI  PHOSPHATIS,  Br.— Syrup  of  Phosphate  of  Iron. 

Strop  de  phosphate  de  fer , Fr.  ; Eisenph osph a tsir up , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Granulated  Ferrous  Sulphate  224  grains ; Sodium  Phos- 
phate 200  grains;  Sodium  Bicarbonate  56  grains;  Concentrated  Phosphoric  Acid  1 1 
fluidounces;  Befined  Sugar  8 ounces;  Distilled  Water  8 fluidounces.  Dissolve  the  fer- 
rous sulphate  in  4 ounces  of  boiling  water,  and  the  sodium  phosphate  in  a similar  quan- 
tity of  cold  water  ; mix  the  solutions,  add  the  sodium  bicarbonate  dissolved  in  a little 
water,  and,  after  careful  stirring,  transfer  the  precipitate  to  a calico  filter,  and  wash  it 
with  distilled  water  till  the  filtrate  ceases  to  be  affected  by  barium  chloride.  Mix  the 
residue  on  the  filter  in  a mortar  with  the  phosphoric  acid.  As  soon  as  the  precipitate  is 
dissolved,  filter  the  solution,  add  water  and  the  sugar,  and  dissolve  without  heat.  The 
product  should  measure  exactly  12  fluidounces,  any  water  which  may  be  necessary 
beyond  that  introduced  with  the  precipitate  or  with  the  sugar  being  added  to  form  the 
stated  bulk. — Br. 

Ferrous  sulphate  and  sodium  phosphate  react  on  each  other,  forming  ferrous  phosphate 
and  sodium  sulphate,  the  resulting  free  sulphuric  acid,  which  would  keep  a portion  of 


SYRUPUS  FERRI  PROTOCHLORIDI. 


1561 


the  ferrous  phosphate  in  solution,  being  nearly  neutralized  with  sodium  bicarbonate. 
After  washing,  the  precipitate  is  dissolved  in  phosphoric  acid,  and  this  solution  is  con- 
verted into  syrup,  which  is  therefore  presumed  to  contain  acid  ferrous  phosphate.  But 
during  the  washing  the  originally  white  precipitate  has  turned  blue  from  the  formation 
of  ferroso-ferric  phosphate,  and  this  oxidation  continues  to  some  extent  in  the  syrup, 
notwithstanding  the  protective  influence  of  the  sugar.  The  change  produced  in  the 
color  of  the  syrup  on  exposure  is  thus  accounted  for.  The  syrup  has  the  density  1.305, 
and  1 fluidrachm  contains  the  equivalent  of  about  1 grain  of  anhydrous  ferrous  phos- 
phate. 

Allied  Syrups. — Syrup  of  Pyrophosphate  of  Iron  is  made  by  dissolving  10  parts  of  the 
official  pyrophosphate  of  iron  in  20  parts  of  water,  and  adding  970  parts  of  simple  syrup 
(F.  Codr).  The  syrup  contains  1 per  cent,  of  the  salt,  and  has  a green  color. 

Numerous  other  formulas  for  syrup  containing  phosphate  of  iron  in  solution  have  been  pro- 
posed, in  some  of  which  the  free  phosphoric  acid  has  been  wholly  or  partly  replaced  by  hydro- 
chloric acid,  resulting  in  the  formation  of  ferric  chloride.  11.  W.  Jones  (1875)  showed  that  a 
more  satisfactory  syrup  is  obtained  by  preparing  the  ferrous  phosphate  from  iron  and  phosphoric 
acid;  and  E.  B.  Shuttleworth  (1876)  proposed  the  following  formula:  38  grains  of  clean  iron 
filings  or  fine  iron  wire  are  dissolved  in  a mixture  of  6 fluidrachms  each  of  water  and  phosphoric 
acid  spec.  grav.  1.5 ; the  solution  is  filtered  as  soon  as  the  iron  is  dissolved  and  mixed  with  8£ 
fluidounces  of  simple  syrup.  Thus  prepared,  it  is  free  from  ferric  salt,  but  otherwise  represents 
the  official  syrup,  and  contains  1 grain  of  phosphate  in  the  fluidrachm. 

Syrupus  phosphatum  compositus,  or  Chemical  Food.  This  was  proposed  by  Edward  Parrish 
(1857),  whose  formula  is  as  follows:  600  grains  of  ferrous  sulphate  and  720  grains  of  sodium 
phosphate  are  separately  dissolved  in  boiling  water,  the  solutions  mixed,  and  the  precipitate 
thoroughly  washed  ; 720  grains  of  calcium  phosphate  are  dissolved  in  4 ounces  of  hot  water  with 
the  aid  of  hydrochloric  acid ; the  solution  is  precipitated  by  ammonia  and  the  precipitate  well 
washed.  The  recently-obtained  phosphates  are  dissolved  in  1200  grains  of  glacial  phosphoric 
acid  previously  dissolved  in  water ; 40  grains  of  sodium  carbonate  and  60  grains  of  potassium 
carbonate  are  added  to  the  solution,  and  if  a precipitate  should  form  it  is  redissolved  by  suffi- 
cient hydrochloric,  or,  preferably,  by  phosphoric,  acid.  The  solution  is  now  diluted  with  water  to 
20  fluidounces ; 120  grains  of  powdered  cochineal  and  36  troy  ounces  of  sugar  are  added,  and  when 
the  latter  is  dissolved  the  syrup  is  strained  and  flavored  with  10  minims  of  oil  of  orange.  Each 
teaspoonful  is  stated  to  contain  about  1 grain  of  ferrous  phosphate,  2£  grains  of  calcium  phos- 
phate, and  smaller  proportions  of  sodium  and  potassium  phosphates.  E.  C.  Saunders  (1876), 
however,  showed  that  a syrup  thus  prepared  cannot  contain  the  amounts  of  phosphates  stated, 
and  proposed  to  dissolve  240  grains  of  fine  iron  wire  in  3 ounces  (avoirdupois)  of  tribasic  phos- 
phoric acid  spec.  grav.  1.75  and  4 ounces  of  water;  923  grains  of  recently-slaked  lime  in  9£ 
ounces  of  phosphoric  acid  and  14  ounces  of  water ; and  54  grains  of  crystallized  sodium  carbonate 
and  72  grains  of  potassium  carbonate  in  \ ounce  of  the  phosphoric  acid  and  1 ounce  of  water. 
The  three  solutions  are  mixed  and  diluted  with  water  to  the  measure  of  28  fluidounces ; the  mix- 
ture, with  52  ounces  of  sugar  and  85  grains  of  powdered  cochineal,  is  made  into  a syrup,  and 
this  is  flavored  with  2 fluidounces  of  orange-flower  water  and  diluted  with  water  to  64  fluid- 
ounces. 

Uses. — This  is  a convenient  and  mild  preparation  of  iron,  which  is  assumed  to  have 
a special  influence  upon  the  nervous  system.  The  dose  is  Gm.  4 (1  fluidrachm).  Other 
non-officinal  syrups  have  been  devised,  such  as  those  above  described,  which,  besides 
phosphorus  and  iron,  contain  lime,  soda,  and  potassa,  or  else  quinine  and  strychnine. 
The  latter  are  the  most  efficient.  They  have  the  disadvantage  in  many  cases,  however, 
of  confining  the  bowels. 


SYRUPUS  FERRI  PROTOCHLORIDI,  N.  F. — Syrup  of  Ferrous 

Chloride. 

Syrupus  ferri  subehloridi , Br.  Add.  ; Syrup  of  proto-  (sub-)  chloride  of  iron , E. ; Strop 
de  chlorure  defer , Fr.  ; Eisencl dor  Hr  sirup , G. 

Preparation. — Solution  of  Ferrous  Chloride  (see  below)  384  minims ; Glycerin  2 
fluidounces;  Orange-flower  Water  2 fluidounces;  Syrup,  enough  to  make  16  fluidounces. 
Mix  thoroughly. — N.  F. 

Mix  2 fluidounces  of  hydrochloric  acid  with  1 ounce  of  water  in  a flask,  add  300 
grains  of  iron  wire,  and  heat  gently  until  action  ceases;  add  10  grains  of  citric  acid, 
and  filter  the  solution  into  10  fluidounces  of  syrup  ; wash  filter  with  £ ounce  of  water, 
and  add  sufficient  syrup  to  form  1 pint  (Imperial)  of  the  mixed  fluid. — Br.  Add. 

Both  syrups  are  of  a light-green  color,  but  differ  greatly  in  strength.  The  N.  F. 
syrup  contains  1 grain  of  ferrous  chloride  in  each  fluidrachm,  and  the  British  syrup 
about  3£  grains. 


1562  SYRUP  US  FERRI  QUININE  ET  STRYCHNINE  PHOSPHATUM. 


Allied  Preparation. — Liquor  ferri  protochloridi,  N.  F. — Solution  of  ferrous  chloride. — 
Take  of  iron,  in  the  form  of  fine,  bright,  and  finely-cut  wire,  1 130  grains ; hydrochloric  acid  10 
troyounces  ; glycerin  4 fluidounces ; dilute  hypophosphorous  acid  60  minims  •,  distilled  water 
enough  to  make  16  fluidoupces.  To  the  iron,  contained  in  a flask,  add  6 fluidounces  of  distilled 
water  and  the  hydrochloric  acid,  and  apply  a gentle  heat  until  effervescence  ceases.  Then  raise 
the  liquid  to  boiling  ; keep  it  at  this  temperature  for  a short  time,  so  that  the  iron  may  be  brought 
into  solution  as  far  as  possible ; filter  the  solution  through  a pellet  of  absorbent  cotton  placed  in 
the  neck  of  a funnel,  and  wash  the  cotton  with  a little  distilled  water.  Evaporate  the  filtrate 
over  a boiling  water-bath  until  crystals  begin  to  form  and  the  escaping  vapors  cease  to  redden,  or 
only  slightly  affect,  moistened  blue  litmus-paper.  Now  add  the  glycerin  and  the  hypophosphorous 
acid;  continue  the  heat,  if  necessary,  until  a perfect  solution  is  obtained;  then  transfer  the  liquid 
to  a graduated  bottle,  allow  it  to  cool,  and  add  enough  distilled  water  to  make  16  fluidounces. 
Each  fluidrachm  represents  about  20  grains  of  ferrous  chloride. 

SYRUPUS  FERRI  QUININE  ET  STRYCHNINE  PHOSPHATUM, 

U.  S. — Syrup  op  the  Phosphates  of  Iron,  Quinine,  and  Strychnine. 

Syrupus  ferri  phosphorid  cum  chinino  et  strychnino,  Syrupus  Eatoni. — Strop  tonique 
(T  Eaton,  Fr. ; Eaton  s Sirup , G. 

Preparation. — Soluble  Ferric  Phosphate  20  Gm. ; Quinine  Sulphate  30  Gm. ; 
Strychnine  0.2  Gm. ; Phosphoric  Acid  48  Cc.  ; Glycerin  100  Cc. ; Water  50  Cc. ; Syrup 
a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Heat  the  soluble  ferric  phosphate  with  the  water 
in  a porcelain  capsule,  until  it  is  dissolved.  Then  add  the  phosphoric  acid,  the  quinine 
sulphate,  and  the  strychnine,  and  stir  until  solution  is  effected.  Filter  the  liquid  into 
the  glycerin  contained  in  a graduated  bottle,  add  enough  syrup  to  make  up  the  volume 
to  1000  Cc.,  and  mix  thoroughly.  Lastly,  strain  if  necessary. — U.  S. 

This  syrup  is  known  as  Eaton's  syrup.  In  the  original  formula  freshly-precipitated  fer- 
rous phosphate  was  dissolved  in  phosphoric  acid,  and  subsequently  became  oxidized  on 
exposure  to  ferric  salt.  The  phosphate  of  iron  now  employed  is  the  pharmacopoeial 
scaled  sodio-ferric  citro-phosphate. 

To  make  1 quart  of  the  official  syrup  dissolve  286  grains  of  soluble  ferric  phosphate  in 
If  fluidounces  of  water  previously  heated ; add  1 fluidounce  and  280  minims  of  phos- 
phoric acid,  and  dissolve  in  the  acid  mixture  430  grains  of  quinine  sulphate  and  3 grains 
of  strychnine ; filter  the  solution  into  31  fluidounces  of  glycerin,  and  add  sufficient  syrup 
to  bring  the  volume  up  to  32  fluidounces. 

The  preparation  of  the  syrup  by  the  present  official  formula  presents  no  difficulties,  and 
we  have  found  the  syrup  to  keep  admirably  well,  darkening  but  slightly  during  two 
months’  exposure  on  the  store-shelf.  Each  Cc.  of  the  finished  syrup  represents  0.02  Gm. 
soluble  ferric  phosphate,  0.03  Gm.  quinine  sulphate,  and  0.0002  Gm.  strychnine,  or  each 
teaspoonful  about  1$  grains  of  the  iron  salt,  If  grains  quinine  sulphate,  and  g1^  grain  of 
strychnine. 

Uses. — The  association  of  iron,  quinine,  and  strychnine  is  a very  valuable  one,  but  it 
is  not  judicious  to  make  use  of  a preparation  in  which  their  proportion  to  one  another  is 
invariable,  nor  of  one  whose  solid  bulk  is  mainly  sugar.  Moreover,  the  present  prepa- 
ration is  very  liable  to  undergo  changes  that  impair  its  qualities.  Dose,  Gm.  4-8  (1  or 
2 teaspoonfuls). 

SYRUPUS  HEMIDESMI,  Br.— Syrup  of  Hemidesmus. 

Sirop  de  hemidesmus , Fr.  ; He  mid esmussirup , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Hemidesmus-root,  bruised,  4 ounces  ; Refined  Sugar  28 
ounces  ; boiling  Distilled  Water  1 pint  (Imperial).  Infuse  the  hemidesmus  in  the  water, 
in  a covered  vessel,  for  four  hours,  and  strain.  Set  it  by  till  the  sediment  subsides; 
then  decant  the  clear  liquor,  add  the  sugar,  and  dissolve  by  means  of  a gentle  heat.  The 
product  should  weigh  2 pounds  10  ounces,  and  should  have  the  specific  gravity  1.335. 
—Br. 

Uses. — The  syrup  of  Indian  sarsaparilla  probably  possesses  no  definite  or  peculiar 
medicinal  virtues ; it  is  used  chiefly  as  a flavoring  agent. 

SYRUPUS  HYPOPHOSPHITUM,  U.  S.— Syrup  of  Hypophosphites. 

Syrupus  calcii  hypophosphitis  compositus. — Sirop  d' hypopliosphite  de  chaux  composee, 
Fr. ; Ilypophosphitsirup , G. 

Preparation. — Calcium  Hypopliosphite  45  Gm. ; Potassium  Hypopliosphite  15  Gm. ; 


SYRUPUS  II YPOPHOSPHIT UM  CUM  FERRO.— SYRUPUS  IPECACUANHA.  1563 


Sodium  Hypophosphite  15  Gm. ; Diluted  Hypopliospliorous  Acid  2 Gm.  ; Sugar  500  Gm. ; 
Spirit  of  Lemon  5 Cc. ; Water  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Triturate  the 
hypopliosphites  with  450  Cc.  of  water,  until  they  are  dissolved  ; add  the  spirit  of  lemon  and 
the  hypophosphorous  acid  and  filter  the  liquid.  In  the  filtrate  dissolve  the  sugar  by  agi- 
tation, without  heat,  and  add  enough  water,  through  the  filter,  to  make  the  product  meas- 
ure 1000  Cc.  Strain,  if  necessary. — U.  S. 

Syrup  of  hypopliosphites  may  also  be  prepared  in  the  following  manner : Prepare  a 
percolator  or  funnel  in  the  manner  described  under  Syrupus.  Pour  the  filtrate  obtained 
as  directed  in  the  preceding  formula  upon  the  sugar,  return  the  first  portions  of  the  per- 
colate, until  it  runs  through  clear,  and  when  all  the  liquid  has  passed  follow  it  by  water, 
until  the  product  measures  1000  Cc.  Mix  thoroughly. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  the  official  syrup  of  hypophosphites  use  660  grains  of  calcium 
hypophosphite,  220  grains  each  of  potassium  and  sodium  hypophosphite,  16  av.  ozs.  and 
330  grains  of  sugar.  1 fluidrachm  of  spirit  of  lemon,  28  minims  of  diluted  hypophos- 
phorous acid,  and  15  fluidounces  of  water.  Each  Cc.  contains  0.075  Gm.,  or  each  tea- 
spoonful nearly  4.3  grains  of  the  combined  hypophosphites,  three-fifths  of  the  weight 
being  calcium  salt. 

Uses. — As  we  have  elsewhere  insisted,  there  is  no  ground  for  believing  in  the  effi- 
ciency of  the  pharmaceutical  hypophosphites.  The  dose  of  this  preparation  has  been 
stated  at  Gm.  2-4  (f^ss-j),  but  no  reason  appears  why  more  or  less  than  this  would  not 
be  quite  as  efficient. 

SYRUPUS  HYPOPHOSPHITUM  CUM  FERRO,  U.  S.— Syrup  of 
Hypophosphites  with  Iron. 

Preparation. — Ferrous  Lactate  10  Gm. ; Potassium  Citrate  10  Gm. ; Syrup  of 
Hypophosphites  a sufficient  quantity ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Rub  the  ferrous  lactate  and 
potassium  citrate  with  a small  quantity  of  the  syrup,  gradually  added,  until  they  are  dis- 
solved. Then  strain,  and  add  enough  syrup  of  hypophosphites  to  make  the  product 
measure  1000  Cc.  Mix  thoroughly. — U.  S. 

Each  fluidounce  of  this  syrup  contains,  besides  the  hypophosphites  mentioned  in  the 
preceding  formula,  4.564  grains  each  of  ferrous  lactate  and  potassium  citrate. 

This  and  the  preceding  syrup  have  been  in  use  since  1857,  but  were  admitted  into  the 
Pharmacopoeia  for  the  first  time  in  1880.  Formerly  ferrous  hypophosphite  was  used,  but 
this  salt  has  been  replaced  in  the  above  formula  by  the  lactate.  In  preparing  both  syrups 
heat  should  be  avoided,  and  they  should  be  kept  in  well-stoppered  bottles  to  lessen  the 
chances  of  gradual  oxidation. 

Uses. — The  remarks  made  on  the  analogous  preparation  immediately  preceding  apply 
to  this  one  also.  Whatever  virtues  it  possesses  are  due  to  the  iron  It  contains.  Bose, 
Gm.  2-4  (f^ss-j). 

SYRUPUS  IPECACUANHA,  U.  S.,  P.  G.— Syrup  of  Ipecac. 

Sirop  d'  ipecacuanha , Fr. ; Ipecacuanhasirup , G. 

Preparation. — Fluid  Extract  of  Ipecac  70  Cc. ; Acetic  Acid  10  Cc. ; Glycerin 
100  Cc. ; Sugar  700  Gm. ; Water  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Dilute  the 
fluid  extract  of  ipecac  with  300  Cc.  of  water  to  which  the  acetic  acid  had  previously  been 
added,  and  mix  them  thoroughly  by  shaking.  Then  filter,  and  pass  enough  water 
through  the  filter  to  obtain  500  Cc.  of  filtrate.  To  this  add  the  glycerin ; dissolve  the 
sugar  in  the  liquid,  and  add  enough  water  to  make  the  product  measure  1000  Cc.  Mix 
thoroughly,  and  strain  if  necessary. — U.  S. 

Syrup  of  ipecac  may  also  be  prepared  in  the  following  manner : Prepare  a percolator 
or  funnel  in  the  manner  described  under  Syrupus.  Mix  the  filtrate  obtained  as  directed 
in  the  preceding  formula  with  the  glycerin,  pour  the  mixture  upon  the  sugar,  return 
the  first  portions  of  the  percolate  until  it  runs  through  clear,  and  when  all  the  liquid 
has  passed  follow  it  by  water  until  the  product  measures  1000  Cc.  Mix  thoroughly. — 

To  make  1 quart  of  syrup  of  ipecac  add  18  fluidrachms  of  fluid  extract  of  ipecac  to 
a mixture  of  91  fluidounces  of  water  and  150  minims  of  acetic  acid  ; shake  well,  filter, 
and  wash  filter  with  sufficient  water  to  obtain  1 pint  of  filtrate.  To  this  add  31  fluid- 
ounces  of  glycerin,  231  av.  ozs.  of  sugar,  and  sufficient  water  to  bring  the  volume  up  to 
32  fluidounces. 


1564 


SYRUPUS  KRA  MERIJE.—S  YR  UP  US  LACTUCARII. 


As  formerly  prepared,  syrup  of  ipecac  was  apt  to  deposit  flocculi  after  standing  some 
days,  and  was  likely  to  sour  in  warm  weather.  The  present  official  formula  aims  at 
obtaining  a perfect  aqueous  solution  of  the  active  virtues  of  ipecac  by  treating  the 
fluid  extract  with  very  dilute  acetic  acid;  the  addition  of  10  per  cent.,  by  volume,  of 
glycerin  will  prevent  subsequent  changes  in  the  syrup.  Each  Cc.  represents  the  activity 
of  0.070  Gm.  of  ipecac,  or  each  teaspoonful  (3j)  equals  about  4 grains. 

The  syrup  of  the  German  Pharmacopoeia  represents  1 per  cent,  of  its  weight  of  ipe- 
cacuanha-root, and  that  of  the  French  Codex  1 per  cent,  of  extract  of  ipecacuanha. 

Uses. — This  syrup  is  used  chiefly  as  an  emetic  for  infants,  and  as  an  expectorant  in 
cases  of  acute  laryngitis  and  bronchitis.  For  the  former  purpose  the  dose  is  Gm.  2-4, 
(fgss— j)  repeated  every  ten  minutes  until  it  operates  ; and  for  the  latter  it  may  be  given  to 
infants  and  children  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.30-1.30  (gtt.  v-xx),  and  to  adults  in  double  these 
quantities.  It  forms  a very  useful  ingredient  of  expectorant  mixtures  in  the  diseases 
named. 


SYRUPUS  KRAMERLffi,  JJ.  S.— Syrup  of  Krameria. 

Syrupus  ratanhse. — Syrup  of  r hat  any,  E. ; Sirop  de  ratanhia , Fr. ; Rata  nhiasirup , G. 

Preparation. — Fluid  Extract  of  Krameria  450  Cc.  ; Syrup  550  Cc.  ; to  make  1000 
Cc.  Mix  them. — U.  S. 

Each  fluidounce  of  the  official  syrup  contains  216  minims  of  fluid  extract  of  rliatany, 
or  27  minims  in  each  teaspoonful  (fluidrachm). 

Syrupus  iodo-tannicus  (see  also  p.  889).  Guilliermond  recommends  extract  of  rhat- 
any  for  this  syrup,  which  may  be  made  by  dissolving  2 grains  of  iodine,  with  a little 
alcohol,  in  200  grains  of  syrupus  krameriae  (U.  S.  P .),  and  adding  800  grains  of  simple 
syrup. 

Uses. — Syrup  of  rhatany  is  chiefly  used  as  a medicine  for  infants  and  children  affect- 
ed with  diarrhoea  independent  of  organic  or  inflammatory  disease,  and  is  usually  asso- 
ciated in  mixtures  with  chalk  and  other  antacids  and  astringents.  The  dose  for  a child  a 
year  or  two  old  is  Gm.  2-4  (fgss-j). 


SYRUPUS  LACTUCARII,  V.  S.— Syrup  of  Lactucarium. 

Sirop  de  lactucarium , Fr. ; Lactucariumsirup , G. 

Preparation. — Tincture  of  Lactucarium  100  Cc.  ; Precipitated  Calcium  Phosphate 
50  Gm. ; Sugar  750  Gm.  ; Water  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Triturate  the 
precipitated  calcium  phosphate  and  150  Gm.  of  the  sugar  in  a mortar  with  the  tincture 
of  lactucarium  gradually  added,  and  afterward  with  300  Cc.  of  water,  added  in  small 
portions  at  a time.  Filter  the  mixture,  dissolve  the.  remainder  of  the  sugar  in  the  filtrate, 
and  pass  enough  water  through  the  filter  to  make  the  product  measure  1000  Cc.  Mix 
thoroughly. — U S. 

Syrup  of  Lactucarium  may  also  be  prepared  in  the  following  manner  : Prepare  a per- 
colator or  funnel  in  the  manner  described  under  Syrupus.  Pour  the  filtrate  obtained  as 
directed  in  the  preceding  formula  upon  the  sugar,  return  the  first  portions  of  the  perco- 
late until  it  runs  through  clear,  and  when  all  the  liquid  has  passed  follow  it  by  water, 
until  the  product  measures  1000  Cc.  Mix  thoroughly. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  syrup  of  lactucarium  triturate  2 av.  ozs.  of  calcium  phosphate  and 
5 av.  ozs.  of  sugar  with  26  fluidrachms  of  tincture  of  lactucarium,  and  afterward  with 
9J  fluidounces  of  water,  gradually  added;  filter,  add  20  av.  ozs.  of  sugar  and  sufficient 
water  through  the  filter,  to  bring  the  volume  of  syrup  up  to  32  fluidounces. 

Since  lactucarium  is  freed  from  its  caoutchouc-like  constituent  in  the  preparation  of 
the  tincturer,  the  above  formula  will  yield  a perfectly  clear  syrup,  which  contains  the 
active  virtues  of  0.050  Gm.  of  lactucarium  in  each  Cc.,  or  of  about  3 grains  in  each  tea- 
spoonful (fluidrachm). 

Sirop  de  lactucarium  opiac£,  Fr.  Cod.,  contains  in  each  tablespoonful  0.005  Gm. 
(T\  grain)  of  extract  of  opium  and  0.01  Gm.  (-^  grain)  of  alcoholic  extract  of  lactu- 
carium. 

Uses. — It  is  very  doubtful  whether  this  preparation  possesses  any  hypnotic  powers  at 
all.  It  may  be  used  as  a placebo  for  mothers  in  certain  cases  of  infantile  disorder,  in  tbe 
dose  of  Gm.  4 (f^j).  The  addition  of  opium  to  the  syrup  of  lactucarium  by  the  French 
Codex  implies  a confession  of  the  inefficacy  of  the  latter  ingredient. 


SYRUPUS  LIMONIS. — S YR  UPUS  PAP  AVERTS. 


1565 


SYRUPUS  LIMONIS,  Br.— Syrup  of  Lemon. 

Syrupus  sued  citri. — Strop  de  sue  de  limon  {de  dtron ),  Fr. ; Citronensirup , G. 

Preparation. — Fresh  Lemon-peel  2 av.  ozs. ; Lemon-juice,  strained,  1 pint  (Impe- 
rial) ; Refined  Sugar  36  av.  ozs.  Heat  the  lemon-juice  to  the  boiling-point,  and,  having 
put  it  into  a covered  vessel  with  the  lemon-peel,  let  them  stand  until  they  are  cold ; then 
filter  and  dissolve  the  sugar  in  the  filtrate  with  the  aid  of  heat.  The  product  should 
weigh  3£  pounds,  and  its  specific  gravity  be  about  1.340. — Br. 

The  U.  S.  Ph.  1880  formula  was  nearly  identical  with  the  above,  except  that  more 
sugar  and  more  lemon-peel  were  directed.  3£  pounds  of  the  British  syrup  will  measure 
very  nearly  42  Imperial  (or  41  IT.  S.)  fluidounces. 

Uses. — This  syrup  is  hardly  medicinal.  It  is  used  habitually  with  water  as  a beveu 
age,  and  thus  forms  a pleasant  and  suitable  drink  in  febrile  affections  generally,  especially 
when  mixed  with  carbonic-acid  water. 

SYRUPUS  MORI,  Br, — Syrup  of  Mulberries. 

Syrupus  mororum. — Strop  de  mure , Fr.  ; Maulbeersaft , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Mulberry -juice  1 pint  (Imperial)  ; Refined  Sugar  21  pounds  ; 
Rectified  Spirit  21  fluidounces.  Heat  the  mulberry -juice  to  the  boiling-point,  and  when 
it  has  cooled  filter  it.  Dissolve  the  sugar  in  the  filtered  liquid  with  a gentle  heat,  and  add 
the  spirit.  The  product  should  weigh  3 pounds  6 ounces,  and  should  have  the  specific 
gravity  1.33. — Br. 

This  and  all  other  syrups  of  acid  fruit-juices  should  be  prepared  only  in  porcelain  or 
well-enamelled  iron  vessels.  The  heating  of  the  juice  to  the  boiling-point  has  for  its 
object  the  removal  of  the  albumen. 

The  fruit-syrups  of  the  French  Codex  and  of  the  German  Pharmacopoeia,  with  the 
exception  of  lemon  syrup,  are  made  with  the  fermented  juice.  (See  Syrupus  Rubi 

IDyEI.) 

Uses. — In  this  country  syrups  made  from  currants,  raspberries,  and  strawberries  are 
as  commonly  used  as  mulberry  syrup  and  mulberry  wine  are  in  England.  Mulberry 
syrup  has  no  therapeutic  virtues  which  are  not  possessed  by  the  other  syrups  mentioned. 

SYRUPUS  PAPAVERIS,  Br B.  GL— Syrup  of  Poppies. 

Syrupus  eapitum  papaveris,  Syrupus  diacodii. — Strop  de  pavot  blanc , Fr. ; Beruhigungs- 
saft , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Poppy-capsules,  dried,  freed  from  the  seeds,  and  coarsely 
powdered,  36  ounces  ; Rectified  Spirit  16  fluidounces  ; Refined  Sugar  4 pounds  ; Boiling 
Distilled  Water  a sufficiency.  Mix  the  poppy-capsules  with  4 pints  of  the  water  and 
infuse  for  twenty-four  hours,  stirring  them  frequently  ; then  pack  them  in  a percolator, 
and,  adding  more  of  the  water,  allow  the  liquor  slowly  to  pass  until  about  2 gallons  have 
been  collected  or  the  poppies  are  exhausted.  Evaporate  the  liquor  by  a water-bath,  until 
it  is  reduced  to  3 pints  (Imperial).  When  quite  cold,  add  the  spirit,  let  the  mixture 
stand  for  twelve  hours,  and  filter.  Distil  off  the  spirit,  evaporate  the  remaining  liquor 
to  2 pints,  and  then  add  the  sugar.  The  product  should  weigh  6£  pounds,  and  should 
have  the  specific  gravity  1.330. — Br. 

The  concentrated  infusion  of  poppy  contains  much  mucilage,  which  is  precipitated  by 
the  alcohol.  This  syrup  is  less  liable  to  ferment  than  if  prepared  from  an  infusion  not 
subjected  to  the  treatment  with  alcohol,  and  is  nearly  six  times  stronger  in  poppy-capsules 
than  that  of  the  P.  G.  The  syrup  was  formerly  often  prepared  from  the  hot  infusion  of 
poppy-capsules,  St.  John’s  bread,  and  liquorice-root.  On  account  of  the  variable  com- 
position of  poppy-capsules  the  French  Codex  directs  this  syrup  to  be  prepared  by  dis- 
solving 1 part  of  alcoholic  extract  of  poppy  in  3 parts  of  alcohol,  and  mixing  with  96 
parts  of  syrup.  Strop  diaeode  is  a solution  of  \ grain,  and  strop  d' opiums,  solution  of  2 
grains,  of  extract  of  opium  in  1000  grains  of  simple  syrup  ; syrupus  opiatus  (P.  G.  1872) 
contained  1 grain  of  the  extract  of  opium  in  the  same  amount  of  syrup. 

Uses. — The  variable  proportion  of  opium  in  poppy-capsules  renders  this  preparation 
uncertain  in  its  effects,  and  therefore  capable  of  doing  serious  injury  to  young  children, 
the  class  of  persons  it  is  intended  for  especially.  It  is  far  better  to  add  a definite  pro- 
portion of  a liquid  preparation  of  opium  or  of  morphine  to  syrup  of  acacia,  of  marsh- 
mallow, or  of  wild-cherry  if  a weak  anodyne  or  narcotic  action  is  required.  The  dose  of 
this  syrup  is  stated  to  be  Gm.  2 (fgss)  for  young  children. 


1566  SYRUPUS  PICIS  LIQ  UTDJE.—SYR  UP  US  PRUNI  VIRGIN  IAN JE. 


SYRUPUS  PICIS  LIQUIDS,  U.  S.—\ Syrup  of  Tar. 

Syrupus  piceus. — Strop  de  goudron,  Fr. ; Theer sirup , G. 

Preparation. — Tar  75  Gm. ; Cold  Water  150  Cc. ; Boiling  Distilled  Water  400  Cc. ; 
Glycerin  100  Cc. ; Sugar  800  Gm. ; Distilled  Water  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000 
Cc.  Mix  the  tar  intimately  with  about  100  Gm.  of  white  sand,  pour  on  the  cold  water, 
and  stir  frequently  during  twelve  hours ; then  pour  off  the  water  and  throw  it  away. 
Pour  the  boiling  distilled  water  upon  the  residue,  stir  well  and  frequently  during  fifteen 
minutes,  add  the  glycerin,  and  set  the  vessel  aside  for  twenty-four  hours,  occasionally 
stirring.  Decant  the  clear  solution  and  filter.  Dissolve  the  sugar  in  the  filtrate  with  the 
aid  of  a gentle  heat ; allow  the  liquid  to  cool,  then  strain  it,  and  pass  enough  distilled 
water  through  the  strainer  to  make  the  product  measure  1000  Cc.  Mix  thoroughly. — 

U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tar  syrup  mix  2\  av.  ozs.  of  tar  with  31  av.  ozs.  of  white  sand, 
and  wash  well  during  twelve  hours  with  6 ounces  of  cold  water ; after  decantation  pour 
13  ounces  of  boiling  distilled  water  upon  the  residue,  stir  well  for  fifteen  minutes,  add 
31  fluidounces  of  glycerin,  and  set  aside  for  twenty-four  hours,  stirring  occasionally. 
Decant  and  filter,  and  in  the  filtrate  dissolve  261  av.  ozs.  of  sugar,  and  add  sufficient 
water  to  bring  the  volume  up  to  32  fluidounces. 

This  formula  is  very  similar  to  that  of  the  French  Codex  of  1866.  The  tar  is  first  treated 
with  water  for  the  purpose  of  removing  most  of  the  acetic  acid  present,  and  this  infusion 
is  rejected.  The  various  soluble  constituents  of  tar  are  then  extracted  by  hot  water,  as 
directed  above,  or  by  one  of  the  methods  described  on  page  1255 : in  the  tar-water  thus 
obtained  the  sugar  is  dissolved  by  agitation  or  by  percolation.  Thus  prepared,  the  syrup 
is  of  a yellowish-color,  has  the  odor  of  tar,  a slightly  bitter  taste  and  an  acid  reaction, 
and  when  rendered  alkaline  becomes  brown. 

Syrupus  picis  iodatus,  Strop  de  goudron  iode , is  much  employed  in  France,  and  con- 
tains per  cent,  of  iodine.  1 grain  of  iodine  dissolved  in  a little  alcohol  is  added,  with 
agitation,  to  1000  grains  of  syrup  of  tar;  the  color  of  iodine  will  disappear  in  a few  days, 
when  the  iodized  syrup  has  about  the  same  color  as  tar  syrup. 

Uses. — It  may  be  questioned  whether  the  sugar  in  this  preparation  of  tar-water  does 
not  impair  the  activity  of  the  medicine,  and  partly  so  by  retarding  its  absorption.  The 
dose  may  be  stated  at  Gm.  16—64  (f^ss— ij),  according  to  the  age  of  the  patient  and  the 
tolerance  of  his  stomach. 

SYRUPUS  PRUNI  VIRGINIANS,  U.  S.- Syrup  of  Wild  Cherry. 

Sirop  d' ecorce  de  cerisier , Fr. ; Wildkirschenrindensirup , G. 

Preparation. — Wild  Cherry,  in  No.  20  powder,  150  Gm. ; Sugar  700  Gm.  ; Gly- 
cerin 150  Cc. ; Water  a sufficient  quantity  to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  glycerin  with 
300  Cc.  of  water.  Moisten  the  wild  cherry  with  a sufficient  quantity  of  the  liquid,  and 
macerate  for  twenty-four  hours  in  a closed  vessel ; then  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  per- 
colator, and  pour  on  the  remainder  of  the  menstruum.  When  the  liquid  has  disappeared 
from  the  surface,  follow  it  by  water,  until  the  percolate  measures  450  Cc.  Dissolve  the 
sugar  in  the  liquid  by  agitation,  without  heat,  strain,  and  pass  enough  water  through  the 
strainer  to  make  the  product  measure  1000  Cc.  Mix  thoroughly. — -U.  S. 

Syrup  of  Wild  Cherry  may  also  be  prepared  in  the  following  manner : Prepare  a perco- 
lator or  funnel  in  the  manner  described  under  Syrupus.  Pour  the  filtrate  obtained  as 
directed  in  the  preceding  formula  upon  the  sugar,  return  the  first  portions  of  the  perco- 
late until  it  runs  through  clear,  and,  when  all  the  liquid  has  passed,  follow  it  by  water, 
until  the  product  measures  1000  Cc.  Mix  thoroughly. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  syrup  of  wild  cherry  bark  use  5 av.  oz.  of  the  ground  bark,  a 
mixture  of  4f  fluidounces  of  glycerin  and  fluidounces  of  water,  and  23i  av.  ozs.  of 
sugar. 

The  treatment  of  wild  cherry  bark  with  cold  water  results  in  the  production  of  hydro- 
cyanic acid  and  oil  of  bitter  almonds  (see  page  1320),  which,  together  with  the  bitter  and 
astringent  principles,  are  contained  in  the  syrup,  which  has  a rich  brownish-red  color  and 
a pleasant  taste.  A formula  for  this  preparation  was  proposed  by  Procter  and  Turn- 
penny in  1842,  and  the  substitution  of  glycerin  for  a portion  of  the  sugar  was  first  sug- 
gested by  C.  Schnabel  (1874)  for  the  purpose  of  preventing  fermentation. 

Enough  menstruum  should  be  added  to  the  powder  to  thoroughly  moisten  it,  and  the 
vessel  be  kept  tightly  closed  to  prevent  loss  of  hydrocyanic  acid : a No.  20  powder  being 


SYRUPUS  RIIAMNI  CATHARTIC^.— SYRUPUS  RHEI  AROMA  TTCUS.  1567 


rather  coarse,  the  mixture  must  be  very  firmly  packed  and  the  percolation  be  allowed  to 
go  on  in  slow  drops,  so  as  to  ensure  exhaustion  of  the  bark.  The  present  syrup  contains 
less  sugar,  but  fully  three  times  as  much  glycerin  as  that  made  after  the  Pharmacopoeia 
of  1880  ; it  keeps  well. 

Uses. — Syrup  of  wild  cherry  has  no  peculiar  medicinal  virtues,  but  is  a very  agree- 
able flavoring  addition  to  mixtures.  It  is  often  added  to  them  under  the  impression  that 
it  may  aid  in  appeasing  cough.  The  dose  is  Gm.  4 (f^j)  or  more. 

SYRUPUS  RHAMNI  CATHARTICS,  I>.  G.— Syrup  of  Buckthorn. 

Syrupus  rhamni , Br.  1867  ; Syrupus  spinse.  cervinse. — Strop  de  nerprun , Fr. ; Kreuzdorn- 
beerensirup , G. 

Preparation. — Fresh  buckthorn-berries  are  mashed  and  allowed  to  ferment  at  20° 
C.  (68°  F.)  in  a covered  vessel,  until  2 volumes  of  the  filtered  liquid  mix  clear  with  1 
volume  of  alcohol  : the  juice  is  then  expressed,  and  in  it  sugar  is  dissolved  in  the  proportion 
of  13  parts  for  every  7 parts  by  weight  of  juice. — P.  G. 

Evaporate  4 pints  of  buckthorn-juice  to  21  pints,  add  f ounce  each  of  sliced  ginger  and 
bruised  pimento,  digest  at  a gentle  heat  for  four  hours,  and  strain.  When  cold  add  6 
fluidounces  of  rectified  spirit ; let  the  mixture  stand  for  two  days,  then  decant  off  the 
clear  liquid,  and  in  this  dissolve  5 pounds  (or  a sufficiency)  of  sugar  with  a gentle  heat, 
so  as  to  make  the  specific  gravity  1.320. — Br.  1867. 

Uses. — In  Europe  syrup  of  buckthorn  is  generally  used  as  a purgative  for  children  in 
the  dose  of  Gm.  4 (f^j). 

SYRUPUS  RHEI,  V.  S.,  Br.,  B.  G.— Syrup  of  Rhubarb. 

Strop  de  rhubarbe , Fr.  ; Rhabarbersaft , G. 

Preparation. — Fluid  Extract  of  Rhubarb  100  Cc.  ; Spirit  of  Cinnamon  4 Cc. ; 
Potassium  Carbonate  10  Gm. ; Glycerin  50  Cc.  ; Water  50  Cc. ; Syrup  a sufficient  quan- 
tity ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  spirit  of  cinnamon  with  the  fluid  extract  of  rhubarb, 
and  add  to  it  the  potassium  carbonate  dissolved  in  the  water.  Then  add  the  glycerin, 
and  lastly  enough  syrup  to  make  the  product  measure  1000  Cc.  Mix  thoroughly. — 
U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  syrup  of  rhubarb  use  3 fluidounces  and  96  minims  of  fluid  extract 
of  rhubarb,  60  minims  of  spirit  of  cinnamon,  146  grains  of  potassium  carbonate,  and  1 
fluidounce  and  288  minims  each  of  glycerin  and  water. 

Take  of  rhubarb-root,  in  No.  20  powder,  coriander-fruit,  in  No.  20  powder,  each  2 
ounces ; refined  sugar  24  ounces  ; rectified  spirit  8 fluidounces  ; distilled  water  24  fluid- 
ounces.  Mix  the  rhubarb  and  coriander ; pack  them  in  a percolator ; pass  the  spirit  and 
water  previously  mixed  slowly  through  them  ; evaporate  the  liquid  that  has  thus  passed 
until  it  is  reduced  to  14  fluidounces,  and  in  this,  after  it  has  been  filtered,  dissolve  the 
sugar  with  the  aid  of  heat.  The  product  should  weigh  nearly  2 \ pounds. — Br. 

We  consider  the  present  official  formula  a decided  improvement  over  that  of  1880,  but 
fail  to  see  any  necessity  for  the  glycerin  and  water,  as  just  as  good  and  permanent  a 
syrup  can  be  made  without  them,  the  alkali  carbonate  being  dissolved  in  a small  quan- 
tity of  syrup.  The  U.  S.  Ph.  syrup  of  rhubarb  is  nearly  twice  as  strong  as  that  of  the 
British  and  German  Pharmacopoeias,  both  of  the  latter  representing  only  5 per  cent,  by, 
weight  of  rhubarb. 

The  present  syrup  is  of  a deep  brown-red  color,  and  is  transparent  in  thin  layers ; the 
presence  of  alkali  renders  it  unfit  for  combination  with  various  salts,  which  are  precipi- 
tated thereby.  The  syrup  of  the  Br.  P.  is  of  a deep-brown  color  and  somewhat  opaque, 
i and  of  a similar  appearance  was  the  syrup  of  rhubarb  as  prepared  by  the  U.  S.  P.  1870 
by  mixing  3 fluidounces  of  fluid  extract  of  rhubarb  with  29  fluidounces  of  simple  syrup. 

Uses. — The  simple  syrup  of  rhubarb  is  seldom  used,  but  it  may  be  given  as  a purga- 
I tive  to  infants  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  4 (f^j). 

SYRUPUS  RHEI  AROMATICUS,  U,  S.— Aromatic  Syrup  of 

Rhubarb. 

Spiced  syrup  of  rhubarb,  E. ; Sirop  de  rhubarbe  aromatique,  Fr.  ; Gewiirzter  Rhabar- 
bersaft, G. 

Preparation. — Aromatic  Tincture  of  Rhubarb  150  Cc.  ; Syrup  850  Cc. ; to  make 
1000  Cc.  Mix  the  aromatic  tincture  of  rhubarb  with  the  syrup. — U.  S . 


1568 


SYRUPUS  RHCEADOS.—SYRUPUS  RUBI  IDyEI. 


To  make  1 quart  of  aromatic  syrup  of  rhubarb  mix  4f  fluidounces  of  aromatic  tincture 
of  rhubarb  with  271  fluidounces  of  syrup. 

The  syrup  is  of  about  the  same  strength  as  that  of  the  Pharmacopoeia  of  1870,  which 
directed  1 part  by  measure  of  the  tincture  to  6 parts  by  measure  of  simple  syrup  ; it  has 
an  agreeable  odor,  a spicy  and  bitterish  but  pleasant  taste,  and  is  somewhat  opaque  in 
appearance. 

Uses. — This  preparation  is  in  universal  use  as  a purgative  for  children  in  diarrhoea 
attended  with  flatulence  and  colic.  The  dose  is  Gm.  4 (%j). 

SYRUPUS  RHCEADOS,  Br.— Syrup  of  Red  Poppy. 

Sirop  de  coquelicot , de  pavot  rouge , Fr.  ; Klatschrosensaft , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  fresh  Red  Poppy-petals  13  ounces  ; Refined  Sugar  21  pounds  ; 
Distilled  Water  1 pint  (Imperial)  or  a sufficiency  ; Rectified  Spirit  21  fluidounces.  Add 
the  petals  gradually  to  the  water  heated  in  a water-bath,  frequently  stirring,  and  after- 
ward, the  vessel  being  removed,  infuse  for  twelve  hours.  Then  press  out  the  liquor, 
strain,  add  the  sugar,  and  dissolve  by  means  of  heat.  When  nearly  cold  add  the  spirit 
and  as  much  distilled  water  as  may  be  necessary  to  make  up  for  loss  in  the  process,  so 
that  the  product  shall  weigh  3 pounds  10  ounces.  It  should  have  the  specific  gravity 
1.33. — Br. 

The  addition  of  alcohol  to  the  finished  syrup  is  designed  to  counteract  its  tendency  to 
fermentation.  The  syrup  is  of  a deep-red  color. 

Uses. — The  syrup  of  red  poppy  is  an  opiate  preparation  of  uncertain  strength,  and, 
being  used  only  for  coloring  mixtures,  it  appears  to  be  superfluous.  The  dose  is  Gm.  4 
(f3j> 


SYRUPUS  ROSJE,  77.  8.— Syrup  op  Rose. 

Syrupus  rosa s gallicse , Br. ; Syrupus  rosarum  rubrarum. — Syrup  of  red  rose , E. ; Strop 
de  roses  rouges , Fr.  ; Rosensirup , G. 

Preparation. — Fluid  Extract  of  Rose  125  Cc. ; Syrup  875  Cc. ; to  make  1000  Cc. 
Mix  them. — U.  S. 

Take  of  dried  red  rose-petals  2 ounces  ; refined  sugar  30  ounces  ; boiling  distilled  water  1 
pint.  Infuse  the  petals  in  the  water  for  two  hours  ; squeeze  through  calico,  heat  the 
liquor  to  the  boiling-point,  and  filter.  Dissolve  the  sugar  in  the  liquor  by  means  of  heat. 
The  product  should  weigh  2 pounds  14  ounces,  and  should  have  the  specific  gravity. 
1.335. — Br. 

The  syrup  is  of  a fine  red  color  and  has  an  agreeable  somewhat  astringent  taste.  Each 
fluidounce  contains  1 fluidrachm  of  the  fluid  extract  of  red  rose-petals. 

Uses. — -It  is  used  almost  exclusively  for  giving  an  agreeable  color  and  flavor  to  other 
syrups  and  to  mixtures.  Rose,  Gm.  4 (f^j). 

SYRUPUS  RUBI,  U.  8.— Syrup  of  Rubus. 

Syrup  of  blackberry-bark,  E. ; Strop  diecorce  de  ronce,  Fr.  ; Brombeerrindensirup , G. 

Preparation. — Fluid  Extract  of  Rubus  250  Cc. ; Syrup  750  Cc. ; to  make  1000  Cc. 
Mix  them. — U.  S. 

This  syrup  has  a deep  reddish-brown  color  and  a strongly  astringent  taste.  Each  fluid- 
ounce  contains  2 fluidrachms  of  the  fluid  extract. 

Uses. — As  a remedy  for  slight  diarrhoea  independent  of  irritants  in  the  intestine  and 
of  inflammatory  conditions  of  that  organ  syrup  of  blackberry-root  is  a convenient  astrin- 
gent. But  the  syrup  is  generally  less  appropriate  than  the  decoction.  Its  dose  is  Gm. 
4-8  (%j-ij). 

SYRUPUS  RUBI  ID.ZEI,  U.  S.,  B.  G.— Syrup  of  Raspberry. 

Strop  de  framboise,  Fr. ; Himbeersaft,  G. 

Preparation. — Reduce  the  raspberries  to  a pulp,  and  let  this  stand,  at  a temperature 
of  about  20°  C.  (68°  F.),  until  a small  portion  of  the  filtered  juice  mixes  clear  with  half 
its  volume  of  alcohol.  Then  separate  the  juice  by  pressing,  set  it  aside  in  a cool  place 
until  the  liquid  portion  has  become  clear,  and  filter.  To  every  40  parts  by  weight  of  the 
filtrate  (which  should  not  be  allowed  to  remain  unprotected  by  sugar  more  than  about  two 
hours)  add  60  parts  of  sugar,  heat  the  mixture  to  boiling,  avoiding  the  use  of  tinned 


SYRUPUS  SARSA  PAKULAS  COMPOS  ITUS. 


1569 


vessels,  and  strain.  Keep  the  product  in  well-stoppered  bottles  in  a cool  and  dark  place. 
— IT.  S. 

This  process  is  identical  with  that  of  the  Germ.  Pharm.,  except  that  the  latter  directs  65 
parts  of  sugar  for  every  35  parts  of  filtered  juice.  Some  care  is  necessary  that  the  tem- 
perature during  the  fermentation  of  the  fruit-pulp  do  not  exceed  that  prescribed. 

The  new  French  Codex  directs  the  fresh  fruit  to  be  expressed  and  the  juice  to  be  fer- 
mented at  a temperature  of  12°  to  15°  C.  (54-59°  F.),  fermentation  to  be  arrested  as 
soon  as  the  liquid  will  readily  pass  through  a filter ; otherwise  the  flavor  will  be  much 
impaired.  Other  fruit-juices  are  prepared  in  precisely  the  same  manner.  The  juice  of 
ripe  raspberries  ferments  readily,  and  the  fermentation  is  completed  in  a few  hours  or  a 
day,  according  to  the  temperature.  The  formation  of  mould  and  acetic  fermentation 
impair  the  flavor ; the  progress  of  fermentation  should  therefore  be  closely  watched, 

and  the  expressed  juice  should  be  rapidly  filtered  and  at  once  converted  into  syrup. 

Fruit-syrups  contain  59.3  60  (£7  $.),  63.7  (F.  CW.),  and  65  (P.  6r.)  per  cent, 

of  sugar. 

Properties. — Raspberry  syrup  has  a bright-red  color,  a very  agreeable  fruit  odor,  a 
pleasant  acidulous  taste,  and  a distinct  acid  reaction.  When  agitated  with  amylic  alcohol, 
ether,  or  chloroform,  these  liquids  should  not  become  colored.  On  being  rendered  alkaline 
the  syrup  becomes  dark-blue  or  dingy  violet-colored,  and  when  treated  with  basic  lead 
acetate  a dingy-blue  or  blue-green  precipitate  is  produced,  the  filtrate  being  colorless  or 
nearly  so.  When  strongly  acidulated  with  cold  nitric  acid  the  red  color  is  not  changed  to 
yellow.  These  reactions  serve  to  distinguish  raspberry  syrup  from  imitations  colored 
with  aniline  red  or  with  other  coloring  matters  of  vegetable  origin. 

Allied  Preparations. — Syrupus  cerasorum,  P.  G. — Cherry  syrup,  E. ; Sirop  de  cerise,  Fr. ; 
Kirschsirup,  G. — The  juice  of  black  cherries  is  fermented  in  the  presence  of  the  bruised  seeds, 
and  further  treated  as  stated  above. 

Syrupus  cydoni.e  (quince  syrup),  Syr.  fragarias  (strawberry  syrup),  Syr.  granati  (pomegranate 
syrup),  and  others  are  prepared  in  a similar  manner,  the  ripe  fruits  being  used.  (See  also  Syr. 
Mori  and  Syr.  Rhamni.) 

Acetum  rubi  id^ei. — Raspberry  vinegar,  E.  ; Vinaigre  framboise,  Fr. ; Himbeeressig,  G. — 
Mix  equal  parts  of  syrup  of  raspberry  and  of  vinegar. — F.  Cod.  Raspberry  syrup  1 part,  pure 
vinegar  2 parts. — P.  G.  1872.  Other  fruit-vinegars  may  be  made  in  the  same  manner. 

Aqua  rubi  id^ei. — Raspberry-water,  E. ; Eau  de  framboise,  Fr. ; Himbeerwasser,  G. — Distil 
2 parts  of  water  from  1 part  of  the  press-cake  left  on  clarifying  raspberry -juice  as  described 
above. — P.  G.  1872.  It  has  an  agreeable  fruit  odor.  Strawberry-water  is  made  in  the  same 
manner ; it  is  sometimes  used  as  a cosmetic. 

Uses. — This  syrup  has  no  special  medicinal  virtues.  It  forms  an  agreeable  flavoring 
addition  to  mixtures,  and  with  water  a pleasant  drink  in  febrile  affections.  The  same 
remark  applies  to  the  allied  preparations. 

SYRUPUS  SARSAPARILLA  COMPOSITUS,  V.  8.— Compound  Syrup 

of  Sarsaparilla. 

Syrupus  sudorificus. — Sirop  de  salsepareille  compose , Sirop  sudorifique,  F r. ; Zusammen- 
gesetzter  Sarsaparillsirup , G. 

Preparation. — Fluid  Extract  of  Sarsaparilla  200  Cc. ; Fluid  Extract  of  Glycyrrhiza 
15  Cc. ; Fluid  Extract  of  Senna  15  Cc. ; Sugar  650  Gm. ; Oil  of  Sassafras  0.1  Cc. ; 
Oil  of  Anise,  0.1  Cc. ; Oil  of  Gaultheria  0.1  Cc. ; Water,  a sufficient  quantity ; to 
make  1000  Cc.  Add  the  oils  (equivalent  to  2 drops  each)  to  the  mixed  fluid  extracts 
and  shake  the  liquid  thoroughly.  Then  add  enough  water  to  make  up  the  volume  to  600 
Cc.,  and  mix  well.  Set  the  mixture  aside  for  one  hour,  then  filter  it.  In  the  filtrate  dis- 
solve the  sugar  with  the  aid  of  a gentle  heat,  allow  the  liquid  to  cool,  strain,  and  add 
enough  water  through  the  strainer  to  make  the  product  measure  1000  Cc.  Mix 
thoroughly. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  compound  syrup  of  sarsaparilla  mix  2 drops  each  of  oils  of 
gaultheria,  anise,  and  sassafras  with  \ fluidounce  each  of  fluid  extracts  of  senna  and 
glycyrrhiza,  and  6|  fluidounces  of  fluid  extract  of  sarsaparilla  ; add  sufficient  water  to 
make  19  fluidounces,  and  after  filtration  dissolve  21tf  av.  ozs.  of  sugar  in  the  filtrate,  and 
add  enough  water  to  bring  the  volume  up  to  32  fluidounces. 

The  present  official  formula  differs  materially  from  that  of  1880  in  the  omission  of 
guaiacum-wood  and  pale  rose-petals,  and  the  substitution  of  aromatic  oils  for  the  respect- 
ive drugs ; the  process  is  much  simpler  than  the  former,  and  the  preparation  no  doubt 
equally  efficient;  but  we  think  an  increase  in  the  quantity  of  sugar  to  750  Gm.  would 


1570 


SYRUPUS  SC1LLJE. — SYR UPUS  SCILL2E  COMPOSITUS 


improve  the  keeping  qualities  of  the  syrup,  during  hot  weather  particularly,  as  the  alcohol 
derived  from  the  fluid  extracts  is  less  than  8 per  cent,  of  the  total  volume  of  the  syrup. 

The  syrup  of  the  French  Codex  is  made  by  hot  infusion  of  sarsaparilla,  borage-flowers, 
pale  rose,  senna,  and  anise ; it  is  known  as  strop  de  Cuisinier.  Under  the  names  of  strop 
de  Laffecteur  and  rob  Boyveau-Laffecteur  a similar  but  more  complex  preparation  has  been 
in  use  in  France ; more  than  thirty  drugs  entered  into  its  composition. 

Uses. — Compound  syrup  of  sarsaparilla  has  been  extensively  used  in  the  treatment 
of  constitutional  syphilis , but  there  is  no  evidence  whatever  to  prove  its  efficiency  when 
given  alone.  For  this  reason,  probably,  it  is  omitted  from  the  British  and  German  Phar- 
macopoeias. It  is  a convenient  vehicle  for  the  administration  of  iodide  of  potassium. 
Corrosive  sublimate,  which  is  sometimes  added  to  it,  is  converted  by  it  into  calomel.  The 
dose  is  Gm.  16  (P§ss),  diluted,  several  times  a day. 

SYRUPUS  SCILLE,  U.  S.,  Br.— Syrup  of  Squill. 

Syrupus  aceti  scillte. — Strop  de  scille , Fr. ; Meerzwiebelsirup , G. 

Preparation. — Vinegar  of  Squill  450  Cc. ; Sugar  800  Gm. ; Water  a sufficient  quan- 
tity ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Heat  the  vinegar  of  squill  to  the  boiling-point  in  a glass  or  por- 
celain vessel,  and  filter  the  liquid  while  it  is  hot.  In  the  hot  filtrate  dissolve  the  sugar 
by  agitation,  without  further  heating,  strain,  and  when  the  strained  liquid  is  cold  add 
enough  water  through  the  strainer  to  make  the  product  measure  1000  Cc.  Mix 
thoroughly. — XJ.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  syrup  of  squill  use  14J  fluidounces  of  vinegar  of  squill  and  27 
av.  ozs.  of  sugar,  finally  adding  sufficient  water  to  bring  the  volume  of  the  solution  up 
to  32  fluidounces. 

The  formula  directs  the  removal  of  the  albumen  in  the  manner  suggested  in  preceding 
editions  of  this  work,  and  a perfectly  clear  syrup  is  thus  obtained.  The  sugar  may  be 
dissolved  with  the  aid  of  heat,  but  percolation  is  to  be  preferred.  The  use  of  metallic 
vessels  should  be  avoided.  The  syrup  of  the  Br.  P.  is  much  denser  than  the  above;  it 
is  made  from  an  Imperial  pint  (20  fluidounces)  of  the  vinegar  and  40  oz.  av.  of  sugar, 
and  has  a specific  gravity  of  about  1.345. 

Uses. — This  syrup  is  an  adequate  representative  of  squill — at  least  in  its  action  upon 
the  bronchial  mucous  membrane.  It  is  much  used  in  the  treatment  of  laryngeal  and 
bronchial  catarrhs , both  for  promoting  the  resolution  of  such  affections,  and  in  children, 
when  used  in  appropriate  doses,  for  producing  emesis,  and  thereby  expelling  accumulated 
secretions  from  the  air-passages.  It  is  habitually  associated  with  syrup  of  ipecacuanha 
or  syrup  of  senega,  according  to  the  nature  of  the  case.  The  cfose,  as  an  expectorant,  is 
Gm.  2-4  (f^ss— j),  and  in  the  latter  quantity  it  is  emetic  when  repeated  at  short  intervals. 

SYRUPUS  SCILL^E  COMPOSITUS,  U.  S.— Compound  Syrup  of 

Squill. 

Strop  de  scille  compose , Fr.  ; Zusammengesetzter  Meerzwiebelsirup , G. 

Preparation. — Fluid  Extract  of  Squill  80  Cc. ; Fluid  Extract  of  Senega  80  Cc. ; 
Antimony  and  Potassium  Tartrate  2 Gm.  ; Precipitated  Calcium  Phosphate  10  Gm. ; 
Sugar  750  Gm. ; Water  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  fluid  extracts, 
evaporate  them,  on  a water-bath,  in  a tared  capsule,  to  100  Gm.,  and  mix  the  residue 
with  400  Cc.  of  water.  When  the  mixture  is  cold,  incorporate  with  it,  intimately,  the 
precipitated  calcium  phosphate,  filter,  and  add  to  the  filtrate  the  antimony  and  potassium 
tartrate,  dissolved  in  25  Cc.  of  hot  water.  In  this  liquid  dissolve  the  sugar  by  agitation, 
without  heat,  strain,  and  add  enough  water  through  the  strainer  to  make  the  product 
measure  1000  Cc.  Mix  thoroughly. — U.  S. 

Compound  Syrup  of  Squill  may  also  be  prepared  in  the  following  manner : Prepare  a 
percolator  or  funnel  in  the  manner  described  under  Syrupus.  Pour  the  filtrate,  obtained 
as  directed  in  the  preceding  formula,  and  mixed  with  the  solution  of  antimony  and 
potassium  tartrate,  upon  the  sugar,  return  the  first  portions  of  the  percolate,  until  it 
runs  through  clear,  and,  when  all  the  liquid  has  passed,  follow  it  by  water,  until  the 
product  measures  1000  Cc.  Mix  thoroughly. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  compound  syrup  of  squill  mix  201  fluidrachms  each  of  fluid 
extracts  of  squill  and  senega,  evaporate  to  3 av.  ozs.,  and  add  14  fluidounces  of  water. 
When  cold  incorporate  150  grains  of  calcium  phosphate  and  filter;  to  the  filtrate  add 
291  grains  of  tartar  emetic,  dissolved  in  1 ounce  of  hot  water.  In  the  mixed  liquid  dis- 


SYRUPUS  SENEGsE. — S YR  UP  US  SENNjE. 


1571 


solve  25  av.  ozs.  of  sugar,  and  add  enough  water  to  bring  the  volume  of  the  syrup  up  to 
32  fluidounces. 

After  the  evaporation  of  the  alcohol  in  the  official  process  considerable  insoluble 
matter  (pectin  compounds)  is  apt  to  separate,  which  it  is  intended  to  remove  by  aid  of 
calcium  phosphate ; if  necessary  the  liquid  should  be  returned  to  the  filter  until  it  runs 
clear,  and  the  solution  of  tartar  emetic  should  not  be  added  until  a clear  filtrate  has  been 
obtained.  The  finished  syrup  contains  a little  less  than  l grain  of  tartar  emetic  in  each 
fluidrachm,  and  if  carefully  prepared  it  will  keep  well. 

This  syrup  is  known  as  hive  syrup  and  croup  syrup , and  is  an  official  substitute  for 
Coxes  hive  syrup , which  was  made  by  boiling  the  drugs  in  water  and  preserving  the  liquid 
by  honey. 

Uses. — The  union  of  squill,  senega,  and  tartar  emetic  in  this  preparation  renders  it 
expectorant,  diaphoretic,  emetic,  and,  in  full  doses,  purgative  also.  It  was  originally 
devised  for  the  treatment  of  “ croup,”  or  “ hives,”  whence  its  popular  name,  11  hive 
syrup.”  It  is  not  appropriate,  however,  for  membranous  croup,  but  only  for  the  affection 
which  is  properly  called  spasmodic  laryngitis , and  which  it  relieves  mainly  by  its  nauseant, 
and  therefore  antispasmodic,  action.  Care  must  be  taken  in  employing  it  not  to  allow  its 
sedative  operation  to  proceed  too  far.  It  may  be  prescribed  in  this  affection  in  doses  of 
Gm.  0.60-2  (npx-xxx),  repeated  at  intervals  of  ten  minutes  or  until  its  nauseant  or 
emetic  operation  is  developed.  In  acute  bronchitis  with  scanty  secretion  it  should  be 
administered  in  similar  doses,  but  at  longer  intervals,  so  as  to  keep  within  the  limits  both 
of  nausea  and  vomiting. 

SYRUPUS  SENEGAS,  U.  S.,  P.  £.-Syrup  of  Senega. 

Strop  dc  poly gala,  Fr.  ; Senegasirup , G. 

Preparation. — Fluid  Extract  of  Senega  200  Cc. ; Ammonia-water  5 Cc. ; Sugar  700 
Gm. ; Water  a sufficient  quantity;  to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  fluid  extract  of  senega 
with  300  Cc.  of  water  and  with  the  ammonia-water,  and  set  the  mixture  aside  for  a few 
hours.  Then  filter,  and  pass  enough  water  through  the  filter  to  obtain  550  Cc.  In  the 
filtrate  dissolve  the  sugar  by  agitation,  without  heat,  strain,  and  add  enough  water  through 
the  strainer  to  make  the  product  measure  1000  Cc.  Mix  thoroughly. — U.  S. 

Syrup  of  Senega  may  also  be  prepared  in  the  following  manner:  Prepare  a percolator 
or  funnel  in  the  manner  described  under  Syrupus.  Pour  the  filtrate,  obtained  as  directed 
in  the  preceding  formula,  upon  the  sugar,  return  the  first  portion  of  the  percolate  until 
it  runs  through  clear,  and,  when  all  the  liquid  has  passed,  follow  it  by  water  until  the 
product  measures  1000  Cc.  Mix  thoroughly. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  syrup  of  senega  mix  6 fluidounces  and  192  minims  of  fluid  extract 
of  senega  with  9J  fluidounces  of  water  and  75  minims  of  ammonia-water;  filter  and 
wash  the  filter  with  enough  water  to  obtain  17^  fluidounces  of  filtrate.  Dissolve  23^ 
av.  ozs.  of  sugar  in  the  liquid,  and  add  enough  water  to  bring  the  volume  of  the  syrup 
up  to  32  fluidounces. 

As  formerly  prepared  from  a tincture  of  senega,  the  separation  of  pectin  compounds 
occasioned  difficulty  in  filtration,  which  is  now  (since  1883)  avoided  by  keeping  the  gela- 
tinous matters  in  solution  by  the  aid  of  ammonia,  a portion  of  which  is  already  contained 
in  the  pharmacopoeial  fluid  extract.  The  syrup  has  a brown  color  and  a decidedly  acrid 
taste;  it  should  be  free  from  ammoniacal  odor.  100  parts  of  syrup  contain  about  16 
( U.  $.),  4 (P.  G.),  or  2.5  ( F Cod.)  parts  of  senega. 

Uses. — The  syrup  of  senega  is  a very  useful  medicine  in  subacute  and  chronic  bron- 
chitis and  laryngitis  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  4-8  (f^j-ij). 

SYRUPUS  SENNiE,  TI.  S.,  Br JP.  G.— Syrup  of  Senna. 

Strop  de  sene , Fr. ; Sennasirup,  G. 

Preparation. — Senna  (Alexandria),  bruised,  250  Gm. ; Oil  of  Coriander  5 Cc. ; 
Alcohol  150  Cc. ; Sugar  700  Gm. ; Water  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  To 
the  senna  add  700  Cc.  of  boiling  water,  and  digest,  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  60° 
C.  (140°  F.),  during  twenty-four  hours.  Then  express  the  liquid,  and  pass  enough  water 
through  the  dregs  to  obtain  600  Cc.  of  liquid.  Strain  this,  and  when  it  is  cold  mix  it 
with  the  alcohol,  in  which  the  oil  of  coriander  had  previously  been  dissolved.  Set  it 
aside  until  the  precipitate  has  subsided,  then  pour  off  the  clear  liquid,  filter  the  remainder, 
and  pass  enough  water  through  the  filter  to  obtain  550  Cc.  In  this  dissolve  the  sugar 


1572 


SYRUPUS  TOLUTANVS. 


by  agitation,  without  heat,  strain,  and  add  enough  water  through  the  strainer  to  make 
the  product  measure  1000  Cc.  Mix  thoroughly. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  syrup  of  senna  digest  8f  av.  ozs.  of  bruised  senna  with  24  fluid- 
ounces  of  boiling  water  for  twenty-four  hours  at  a temperature  not  above  60°  C.,  express, 
and  wash  the  residue  with  suflicient  water  to  obtain  20  fluidounces.  Strain,  and  when 
cold  add  75  minims  of  oil  of  coriander  dissolved  in  5 fluidounces  of  alcohol.  After 
twenty-four  hours  decant  the  clear  liquid,  filter  the  remainder,  and  pass  enough  water 
through  the  filter  to  obtain  172-  fluidounces,  in  which  dissolve  23|  av.  ozs.  of  sugar. 
Finally,  add  enough  water  to  make  the  volume  32  fluidounces. 

This  formula  is  modelled  after  that  of  the  British  Pharmacopoeia  ; by  a similar  process 
16  oz.  av.  of  senna  are  made  to  yield  16  fluidounces  of  concentrated  and  filtered  infusion, 
including  3 fluidounces  of  rectified  spirit  and  3 minims  of  oil  of  coriander,  and  in  this 
liquid  24  ounces  of  sugar  are  dissolved.  This  syrup  weighs  42  ounces,  and  its  specific 
gravity  is  about  1.310. 

Senna  Syrup,  P.  G.,  is  only  about  one-fourth  the  strength  of  that  of  the  U.  S.  P.,  and 
is  flavored  with  fennel. 

Syrupus  sennyE  cum  manna,  P.  G:,  is  made  by  mixing  equal  parts  of  syrup  of  senna 
and  syrup  of  manna  (see  p.  1019). 

The  prolonged  digestion  for  twenty-four  hours  appears  unnecessary,  and  liable  to  dis- 
solve an  increased  quantity  of  inert  matter.  Senna  yields  its  cathartic  principle  to  water 
quite  readily,  and  we  think  that  ten  or  twelve  hours’  digestion  should  be  sufficient,  the 
residue  to  be  washed  with  hot  water  after  expression.  The  alcohol  is  intended  to 
remove  gummy  matter,  and  some  time  must  be  allowed  for  precipitation.  The  finished 
syrup  is  of  very  dark  color,  almost  black,  and  possesses  the  characteristic  odor  and  taste 
of  senna. 

Uses- — This  is  a mild  and  efficient  cathartic  for  children  in  the  dose  of  from  Gm.  4-16 


SYRUPUS  TOLUTANUS,  U.  S.,  Hr.— Syrup  op  Tolu. 

Syrop  de  baume  de  Tolu , Strop  balsamique , Fr.  ; Tolubalsamsirup,  G. 

Preparation. — Balsam  of  Tolu  10  Gm. ; Precipitated  Calcium  Phosphate  50  Gm. , 
Sugar  850  Gm. ; Alcohol  50  Cc.  ; Water  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Dis- 
solve the  balsam  of  Tolu  in  the  alcohol,  in  a small  flask  or  bottle,  with  the  aid  of  a 
gentle  heat.  Mix  the  precipitated  calcium  phosphate  with  150  Gm.  of  the  sugar  in  a 
mortar,  thoroughly  incorporate  with  it  the  solution  of  the  balsam,  and  set  the  mortar 
aside  in  a moderately  warm  place  until  the  alcohol  has  evaporated.  Then  triturate  the 
residue  well  with  500  Cc.  of  water,  gradually  added,  and  filter  the  mixture  through  a 
wetted  filter,  returning  the  first  portions  of  the  filtrate  until  it  runs  through  clear.  To 
the  filtrate,  heated  to  a temperature  of  about  60°  C.  (140°  F.),  add  the  remainder  of  the 
sugar,  and  dissolve  it  by  agitation.  Then  allow  the  syrup  to  cool,  strain  it,  and  pass 
enough  water  through  the  filter  and  strainer  to  make  the  product  measure  1000  Cc.  Mix 
thoroughly. — IT.  S. 

Syrup  of  Tolu  may  also  be  made  in  the  following  manner:  Prepare  a percolator  or 
funnel  in  the  manner  described  under  Syrupus.  Pour  the  filtrate,  obtained  as  directed 
in  the  preceding  formula,  upon  the  sugar,  return  the  first  portions  of  the  percolate  until 
it  runs  through  clear,  and,  when  all  the  liquid  has  passed,  follow  it  by  water  until  the 
product  measures  1000  Cc.  Mix  thoroughly. — U.  S.' 

To  make  1 quart  of  syrup  of  Tolu  dissolve  146  grains  of  balsam  of  Tolu  in  12f  fluid- 
drachms  of  alcohol ; incorporate  the  solution  with  a mixture  of  If  av.  ozs.  of  calcium 
phosphate  and  5 av.  ozs.  of  sugar,  and  allow  the  alcohol  to  evaporate.  Gradually  add 
16  fluidounces  of  water,  mix  well,  and  filter;  in  the  clear  filtrate  dissolve  28f  av.  ozs. 
of  sugar,  and  add  sufficient  water  to  bring  the  volume  of  syrup  up  to  32  fluidounces. 

Take  of  balsam  of  Tolu  If  ounces;  refined  sugar  2 pounds;  distilled  water  1 pint  or 
a sufficiency.  Boil  the  balsam  in  the  water  for  half  an  hour  in  a tightly-covered  vessel, 
stirring  occasionally.  Then  remove  from  the  fire,  and  add  distilled  water,  if  necessary, 
so  that  the  liquid  shall  measure  16  ounces.  Filter  the  solution  when  cold,  add  the  sugar, 
and  dissolve  with  the  aid  of  a steam-  or  water-bath.  The  product  should  weigh  3 pounds, 
and  should  have  the  specific  gravity  1.33. — Br. 

We  can  see  no  advantage  in  driving  off  the  alcohol  from  the  solution  of  Tolu  balsam, 
nor  any  objection  to  retaining  it : in  our  experience  the  flavor  and  aroma  of  the  syrup 
are  much  improved  by  allowing  the  alcohol  to  remain,  no  doubt  because  more  of  the 


SYRUPUS  ZINGIBERIS.—TABACVM. 


1573 


balsamic  principles  are  kept  in  solution  along  with  some  resin.  The  short  time  of  con- 
tact of  cold  water  with  the  finely-divided  balsam  of  Tolu  will  scarcely  dissolve  much  of 
the  odorous  principles  (ethers  and  oil),  whereas  the  presence  of  10  percent,  of  alcohol 
will  materially  increase  their  solubility  : if  the  alcohol  be  allowed  to  remain,  the  quan- 
tity of  sugar  in  the  official  formula  should  be  reduced  to  800  Gm. 

Syrupus  balsami  peruviani,  s.  Syrupus  balsamicus.  Digest  1 part  of  balsam 
of  Peru  in  11  parts  of  water;  decant  and  filter  when  cold,  and  dissolve  18  parts  of  sugar 
in  10  parts  of  the  filtrate. — P.  G.  1872. 

Uses. — The  medicinal  virtues  of  this  preparation  are  exceedingly  feeble,  if  indeed  it 
possess  any.  But  its  agreeable  flavor  renders  it  an  eligible  associate  of  other  and  less 
palatable  syrups,  especially  such  as  are  used  in  bronchial  catarrhs.  Dose,  Gm.  4 (f^j). 

SYRUPUS  ZINGIBERIS,  U.  S.,  Br.— Syrup  of  Ginger. 

Sirop  de  gingembre , Fr.  ; Ingwersirup.  G. 

Preparation. — Fluid  Extract  of  Ginger  30  Cc.  ; Precipitated  Calcium  Phosphate  15 
Gm. ; Sugar  850  Gm.  ; Water  a sufficient  quantity;  to  make  1000  Cc.  Triturate  the 
fluid  extract  of  ginger  with  the  precipitated  calcium  phosphate,  and  expose  the  mixture 
in  a warm  place  until  the  alcohol  has  evaporated.  Then  triturate  the  residue  with  450 
Cc.  of  water  and  filter.  In  the  filtrate  dissolve  the  sugar  by  agitation,  without  heat, 
strain,  and  pass  enough  water  through  the  filter  to  make  the  product  measure  1000  Cc. 
Mix  thoroughly. — U.  S. 

Syrup  of  Ginger  may  also  be  prepared  in  the  following  manner : Prepare  a percolator 
or  funnel  in  the  manner  described  under  Syrupus.  Pour  the  filtrate,  obtained  as  directed 
in  the  preceding  formula,  upon  the  sugar,  return  the  first  portions  of  the  percolate  until 
it  runs  through  clear,  and,  when  all  the  liquid  has  passed,  follow  it  by  water  until  the 
product  measures  1000  Cc.  Mix  thoroughly. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  syrup  of  ginger  mix  1 ounce  of  fluid  extract  of  ginger  with  4 av. 
oz.  of  calcium  phosphate,  and  when  the  alcohol  has  evaporated  add  1P|  fluidounces  of 
water;  in  the  clear  filtrate  dissolve  284  av.  ozs.  of  sugar,  and  add  sufficient  water  to  bring 
the  volume  of  syrup  up  to  32  fluidounces. 

As  in  the  case  of  syrup  of  orange-peel,  there  can  be  no  possible  objection  to  the 
presence  of  alcohol  in  the  finished  syrup.  We  should  prefer  to  add  20  Cc.  of  alcohol  to 
the  fluid  extract,  triturate  the  mixture  well  with  30  Gm.  of  calcium  phosphate,  gradually 
add  450  Cc.  of  water,  and  set  the  mixture  aside  for  six  or  eight  hours  with  frequent  agita- 
tion ; then  filter,  and  wash  the  filter  with  water,  so  as  to  obtain  500  Cc.  of  clear  filtrate, 
in  which  dissolve  800  Gm.  of  sugar,  adding  sufficient  w^ater  finally  to  make  1000  Cc.  of 
syrup.  Thus  prepared,  syrup  of  ginger  has  a yellowish  color,  and  possesses  a much 
stronger  aroma  and  characteristic  pungency  than  if  made  strictly  according  to  the  official 
formula. 

The  Pharmacopoeia  of  1870  used  magnesium  carbonate  for  diffusing  the  fluid  extract 
preceding  the  treatment  with  water ; a syrup  was  thus  obtained  which  was  transparent 
and  had  the  odor  of  ginger,  but  contained  magnesia  in  solution,  and  had  but  little  pun- 
gency. The  syrup  of  the  Br.  P.  is  milky  ; it  is  made  by  mixing  strong  tincture  of 
ginger  6 fluidrachms  with  syrup  19  fluidounces. 

Uses. — Syrup  of  ginger  is  chiefly  employed  as  a flavoring  ingredient  of  mixtures, 
but  is  most  suitable  as  an  addition  to  those  which  are  intended  to  relieve  colic  by  causing 
an  expulsion  of  flatus.  Dose , Gm.  4 (f^j)  or  more. 

TABACUM,  U.  S. — Tobacco;  Leaf  Tobacco. 

Tabaci  folia , Br. ; Folia  nicotianse , P.  G. — Nicotiane , Tabac , Fr.  Cod. ; Tabak , G. ; 

Tabaco,  Sp. 

The  commercial,  dried  leaves  of  Nicotiana  Tabacum,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen, 
Med  Plants , 191. 

Nat.  Ord. — Solan aceae. 

Origin. — The  tobacco-plant  is  indigenous  to  tropical  America,  but  the  country  which 
originally  produced  it  cannot  now  be  ascertained,  since  tobacco  is  now  unknown  in  the 
wild  state.  The  seeds  were  sent  to  Spain  in  1518  by  Fra  Romano  Pane,  and  reached 
France  in  1560  from  Lisbon  through  the  French  ambassador,  Jean  Nicot.  The  cultiva- 
tion of  tobacco  was  commenced  in  Holland  in  1615,  soon  afterward  in  England,  and  about 
fifty  years  later  in  the  Palatinate.  About  the  same  period,  or  a little  earlier,  it  appears 


1574 


TABACUM. 


to  have  been  introduced  into  China.  At  present  tobacco  is  very  extensively  cultivated 
in  most  temperate  and  subtropical  countries.  During  1875  there  were  over  559,000 
acres  of  land  planted  in  the  United  States,  yielding  367,000,000  pounds  of  tobacco. 
The  annual  production  of  tobacco  in  all  countries  has  been  estimated  at  about  3,000,000 
tons. 

N.  Tabacum  attains  a height  of  1.2-1 .8  M.  (4  or  6 feet),  has  a stout,  viscidly  hairy 
stem,  shortly-stalked  sessile  amplexicaul  and  alternate  leaves,  and  terminal  panicles  of 
dull-pink  or  reddish  flowers,  consisting  of  a tubular,  bell-shaped,  five-toothed  calyx,  a 
funnel-shaped  corolla  about  5 Cm.  (2  inches)  long,  with  spreading,  five-lobed  border  and 
five  stamens  and  a conical  ovary.  The  capsule  is  about  25  Mm.  (1  inch)  long,  opens  by 
two  valves,  is  two-celled,  and  contains  a large  number  of  minute,  somewhat  reniform, 
pale-brown  seeds.  Nicotiana  macrophylla,  Lehmann , Nic.  fruticosa,  Linne , Nic.  petiolata, 
Agardh , and  others,  are  now  regarded  as  varieties  of  the  above  species. 

Nic.  repanda,  Willdenow , is  cultivated  in  Cuba ; Nic.  persica,  Lindley,  yields  the 
Shiraz  or  Persian  tobacco  ; and  Nic.  rustica,  Linne , is  the  species  which  is  chiefly  culti- 
vated in  Turkey  and  India.  The  last-named  species  is  about  1.2  M.  (4  feet)  high,  has 
oval  or  ovate  entire  leaves  on  petioles  about  38  Mm.  (1J  inches)  long,  and  produces 
greenish-yellow  flowers  nearly  25  Mm.  (1  inch)  long.  According  to  Thiselton  Dyer,  La- 
takia  tobacco  is  prepared  from  the  flowering  panicles  and  capsules  of  N.  Tabacum,  and 
owes  its  peculiar  flavor  to  the  smoke  of  the  wood  of  Pinus  halepensis,  Alton , to  which  it 
is  exposed. 

Cultivation. — The  plant  requires  a deep,  rich  soil,  which  must  be  annually  well 
manured ; the  seeds  are  sown  in  beds,  and  when  the  young  plants  are  15  to  20  Cm.  high 
they  are  transplanted  to  the  tobacco-fields,  and  during  their  growth  carefully  freed  from 
the  larvae  of  insects.  The  flowering  tops  and  branches  are  broken  off  before  the  flowers 
expand,  and  when  the  leaves  are  fully  matured,  which  takes  place  about  the  month  of 
September,  the  plants  are  cut,  allowed  to  wilt  in  the  sun,  and  afterward  cured  by  being 
hung  up  in  a drying-house  and  exposed  to  the  heat  of  a fire.  The  leaves  at  first  become 
wet,  or  “ sweat,”  and  in  the  course  of  several  weeks  are  dried,  after  which  they  are  strip- 
ped from  the  stems,  assorted,  gathered  up  into  small  parcels,  and  then  are  packed  into 
large  boxes  or  hogsheads. 

Description. — Tobacco-leaves  are  from  15-50  Cm.  (6  to  20  inches)  long  and  from 
5-15  Cm.  (2  to  6 inches)  wide,  oval  or  ovate-lanceolate,  sometimes  rather  obovate  in 
form,  pointed  and  acute  at  the  apex,  and  with  an  entire  margin.  In  the  fresh  state  they 
are  rather  thick,  green,  and  covered  with  viscid  hairs  and  with  small  sessile  glands ; after 
drying  they  are  thinner,  lighter  or  darker  brown,  or  mottled  with  different  shades  of  brown 
and  friable.  The  leaves  have  a thick,  prominent  midrib,  branching  under  acute  angles 
into  lateral  veins,  which  are  curved  near  the  margin.  The  odor  of  tobacco  is  peculiar 
and  heavy,  and  its  taste  disagreeable,  bitter,  and  acrid. 

Constituents. — Tobacco  contains  a large  amount  of  salts,  consisting  of  sulphates, 
nitrates,  chlorides,  phosphates,  and  malates  of  potassium,  calcium,  ammonium,  and  nico- 
tine, and  yields  from  14  to  18.5  per  cent,  of  ash.  Larger  amounts  have  been  obtained, 
sometimes  as  much  as  25  to  27  per  cent. — a result  which  is  probably  due  in  some  cases 
to  dust  adhering  to  the  viscid  glands,  as  was  suggested  by  B.  F.  Creighton  (1876).  The 
other  constituents  of  tobacco  are  albumen,  resin,  extractive,  gum,  citric  acid  (Goupil), 
nicotianin,  and  nicotine.  Nicotianin  was  discovered  by  Hermbstadt  on  distilling  tobacco 
with  water  ; it  separates  from  the  distillate  in  the  form  of  white  foliaceous  crystals,  which 
have  an  odor  resembling  that  of  tobacco-smoke  and  a warm  and  bitterish  aromatic  taste 
(Posselt  and  Beimann,  1828).  Landerer  (1835)  obtained  nicotianin  from  the  dried,  but  not 
from  the  fresh,  leaves.  Barral  (1845)  stated  that  it  contains  7.12  per  cent,  of  nitrogen. 

Nicotine  or  nicotia  is  the  poisonous  principle  of  tobacco,  and  was  discovered  by  Posselt 
and  Beimann  (1828).  It  may  be  prepared  by  exhausting  bruised  tobacco  with  acidu- 
lated water,  concentrating  the  infusion,  adding  an  excess  of  potassa,  and  agitating  with 
ether,  which  dissolves  the  alkaloid,  and  on  the  addition  of  powdered  oxalic  acid  nicotine 
oxalate,  which  is  insoluble  in  ether,  is  separated  (Schloesing)  ; or,  the  ether  is  evaporated, 
the  liquid  neutralized  with  oxalic  acid,  evaporated  to  dryness,  and  the  residue  exhausted 
with  boiling  alcohol,  which  dissolves  nicotine  oxalate  (Ortigosa).  On  evaporating  the 
solution  to  a syrupy  consistence  and  agitating  it  with  potassa  and  ether,  an  ethereal  liq- 
uid is  obtained,  which  on  fractional  distillation  yields  the  alkaloid.  This  is  a colorless 
oily  liquid,  having  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  the  spec.  grav.  1.0111,  and  remaining  liquid  at 
— 10°  C.  (14°  F.).  It  has  an  unpleasant,  and  when  heated  a pungent,  acrid,  tobacco-like 
odor,  a burning  taste,  and  a strongly  alkaline  reaction.  Exposed  to  air  and  light,  it 


TABACUM. 


1575 


rapidly  acquires  a brown  color  and  is  partly  converted  into  a resinous  compound.  It 
boils  near  250°  C.  (482°  F.),  but  distils  at  a lower  temperature,  always  leaving  a residue. 
Its  composition  is  C10H14N2  (mol.  weight  161.72).  It  absorbs  water  from  the  air,  dissolves 
readily  in  water,  and  is  separated  from  this  solution  by  caustic  potassa.  Alcohol  and 
ether  dissolve  it  in  all  proportions,  and  it  yields  with  acids  neutral  and  acid  salts,  of  which 
the  former  crystallize  with  difficulty  and  are  mostly  soluble  in  weak  alcohol,  but  insoluble 
in  ether.  The  alkaloid  acquires  a wine-red  color  with  strong  sulphuric  acid,  and  on 
heating  the  mixture  is  charred.  Chlorine  gas  colors  it  deep-red  or  red-brown.  When 
heated  with  a little  hydrochloric  acid  a violet  color  is  produced,  which  on  the  further 
addition  of  nitric  acid  changes  to  yellowish-red.  The  double  salts  with  mercuric  and 
platinic  chloride  are  sparingly  soluble  in  cold  water.  Dried  tobacco-leaves  contain  from  2 
to  8,  and  occasionally  as  high  as  11,  per  cent,  of  nicotine.  The  alkaloid  is  present  in  all 
parts  of  the  green  plant,  as  well  as  in  the  dried  leaves,  and  according  to  Kissling  (1882), 
also  in  tobacco-smoke,  which  owes  its  toxic  action  mainly  to  this  alkaloid.  Instead 
of  nicotine,  H.  Vohl  and  H.  Eulenburg  (1871),  found  chiefly  collidine , with  pyridine , 
picoline , and  other  bases  of  the  same  series  (see  page  1109),  besides  ammonia  and 
traces  of  ethylamine  ; and,  in  passing  the  vapors  through  potassa  solution,  hydrocyanic, 
hydrosulphuric,  acetic,  formic,  butyric,  valerianic,  carbolic,  and  probably  other  acids 
were  retained. 

Pharmaceutical  Products. — Oleum  tabaci,  Oil  of  tobacco  ( TJ . S.  1870),  is  prepared  by  dry  dis- 
tillation of  coarsely-powdered  tobacco,  and  is  a brown-black  tar-like  liquid  of  a strong  and  very 
peculiar  empyreumatic  odor.  Unverdorben  (1826)  recognized  in  it  the  presence  of  an  alkaloid, 
which  on  being  boiled  with  diluted  sulphuric  acid  yields,  among  other  products,  odorine  or  pico- 
line; it  is  not  unlikely  that  others  of  the  ternary  bases  contained  in  animal  oil  (see  page  1109) 
may  likewise  be  present  in  this  tarry  product.  Zeise  (1843)  demonstrated  the  presence  of  buty- 
ric acid,  ammonia,  paraffin,  empyreumatic  resin,  and  a pale-yellow  oil  of  the  formula  CnII2202, 
which  boils  at  195°  C.  (383°  F.).  Melsens  (1843)  proved  the  presence  of  nicotine  in  the  tarry 
matter  separating  in  tobacco-pipes,  and  it  is  most  likely  present  in  the  empyreumatic  oil. 

Unguentum  tabaci,  Tobacco  ointment  ( U S.  1870).  The  aqueous  extract  from  £ oz.  av.  of 
powdered  tobacco  is  mixed  with  8 oz.  av.  of  lard. 

Vinum  tabaci,  Wine  of  tobacco  (U.  S.  1870).  Exhaust  120  grains  of  tobacco  with  4 fluid- 
ounces  of  sherry  wine. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  essential  effects  of  tobacco  are  best  illustrated  by  the 
action  of  nicotine  employed  experimentally.  The  following  summary  represents  the 
effects  of  doses  of  nicotine  varying  from  to  y1^  grain,  taken  in  water : The  minutest 
doses  occasion  a burning  sensation  in  the  tongue,  a hot,  acrid  feeling  in  the  fauces,  and 
a sense  of  rawness  throughout  the  oesophagus.  Salivation  is  abundant.  Small  doses 
produce  a sense  of  heat  in  the  stomach,  chest,  and  head,  and  even  in  the  fingers,  with 
some  excitement  of  the  nervous  system  ; larger  ones  cause  heaviness,  giddiness,  torpor, 
sleepiness,  indistinct  vision,  with  sensitiveness,  of  the  eye  to  light,  imperfect  hearing, 
laborious  and  oppressed  breathing,  and  dryness  of  the  throat.  The  former  contract,  the 
latter  dilate,  the  pupils.  In  forty  minutes  after  the  larger  doses  a sense  of  great  debil- 
ity is  perceived,  the  head  droops,  the  pulse-rate  falls,  the  face  grows  pale,  the  features 
are  relaxed,  the  limbs  seem  paralyzed,  the  hands  and  feet  are  cold,  the  coldness  advances 
gradually  toward  the  trunk,  and  faintness  ends  in  loss  of  consciousness.  The  disorder 
of  the  digestive  organs  manifests  itself  by  eructations,  nausea,  and  even  vomiting,  the 
abdomen  becomes  distended,  and  an  urgent  desire  is  felt  to  go  to  stool ; wind  is  dis- 
charged, the  stools  may  be  profuse  and  watery,  and  urine  is  voided  copiously.  The 
nervous  system,  after  the  debilitating  influence  of  the  poison  has  developed  itself,  shows 
its  condition  by  muscular  spasm,  which  begins  with  tremulousness  of  the  extremities, 
and  gradually  involves  the  whole  muscular  system,  including  the  respiratory  muscles, 
so  that  the  breathing  is  oppressed,  gasping,  and  incomplete.  This  enumeration  of  effects 
is  sufficient  to  prove  that  nicotine  acts  primarily  upon  the  spinal  and  sympathetic  nervous 
systems  rather  than  upon  the  brain.  It  may  cause  death  by  direct  paralysis  of  the  heart, 
or  more  indirectly  by  paralysis  of  the  respiratory  muscles,  producing  asphyxia.  But  it  also 
impairs  the  function  of  the  blood  as  a carrier  of  oxygen.  The  blood  examined  during  life 
of  a person  under  the  full  influence  of  tobacco  is  of  a dark  color,  and  presents  a striking 
disaggregation  of  the  red  corpuscles,  which  are  also  less  regularly  circular  than  natural,  and 
have  jagged  or  crenated  edges.  The  white  corpuscles  are  likewise  broken  up.  As  the  poi- 
sonous operation  passes  off,  however,  the  blood  regains  its  normal  character.  The  action  of 
tobacco  itself  is  so  nearly  identical  with  that  of  nicotine  as  to  render  unnecessary  a detailed 
account  of  it  in  this  place.  It,  however,  is  mainly  exhibited  in  muscular  relaxation  and  col- 
lapse. In  some  cases  “ lethargy  ” and  insensibility”  are  mentioned,  but  the  condition  is 


1576 


TABACUM. 


not  that  of  cerebral  oppression  so  much  as  of  cerebral  exhaustion.  Briert  has  reported 
the  case  of  a woman  who  consumed  large  quantities  of  tobacco  by  smoking,  chewing, 
and  snuffing.  Finally,  she  fell  into  a condition  in  which  the  graver  of  the  above  symp- 
toms were  present,  and  in  which  she  died  (Blatin,  La  Nicotine  et  le  Tabac,  1870,  a work 
in  which  this  subject  is  copiously  illustrated).  The  case  of  Count  de  Bocarme,  who,  in 
1851,  with  his  wife  as  an  accomplice,  killed  her  brother  with  nicotine  prepared  by  them- 
selves, is  famous  in  judicial  annals.  In  1884  a case  apparently  of  suicide  by  this  poison 
terminated  very  rapidly  ( Centralbl.  f d.  g.  Therap.,  iii.  328).  We  have  elsewhere  cited 
numerous  cases  of  tobacco-poisoning ; others  have  been  collected  by  Hare  ( Physiol . and 
Pathol.  Effects  oj  Tobacco , 1885),  by  Giacchi  ( Therap . Monatsh.,  iii.  178),  and  a very 
striking  case  of  fatal  acute  poisoning  by  Richardson  ( Asclepiad , 1889).  Within  a few 
years  past  the  habit  of  smoking  cigarettes,  especially  by  the  young,  has  multiplied  the 
number  of  cases  of  chronic  tobacco-poisoning  beyond  all  precedent.  Among  the  symp- 
toms especially  prominent  in  certain  cases  of  tobacco-poisoning,  either  caused  by  a single 
excessive  dose  or  by  inordinate  indulgence  in  smoking  or  chewing  tobacco,  may  be  men- 
tioned : a rapid  followed  by  a very  slow  pulse,  hiccough,  and  cold  perspiration,  dilated 
pupils,  profuse  diuresis,  convulsions  without  loss  of  consciousness,  sometimes  cataleptic 
and  sometimes  hysterical,  and  great  numbness  as  well  as  impaired  motor  power  of  the 
limbs  and  of  the  tongue  (e.  g.  case  in  Amer.  Jour,  of  Med.  Sci.,  Jan.  1882,  p.  306). 
As  in  the  case  of  other  medicines  directly  affecting  the  nervous  system,  the  habitual  use 
of  tobacco  deprives  it  of  many  of  its  graver  effects,  especially  if  the  general  health  is 
not  reduced  below  its  normal  standard. 

The  cases  of  serious  illness  produced  by  the  emanations  of  tobacco,  and  by  its  applica- 
tion even  to  the  unbroken  skin,  are  innumerable,  and  many  instances  of  fatal  poisoning 
by  tobacco  are  recorded,  some  of  them  being  due  to  its  having  been  swallowed  purposely 
or  accidentally,  some  to  its  use  medicinally  in  an  enema,  and  some  to  its  application  to 
eruptions  on  the  skin.  The  fatal  dose  of  tobacco  internally,  and  generally  by  enema, 
has  varied  from  the  maximum  of  an  ounce  or  two  to  a minimum  of  15  grains.  It  was 
generally  administered  in  decoction  or  infusion.  Nicotine  stands  next  to  prussic  acid  in 
the  rapidity  and  energy  of  its  poisonous  action,  but  the  minimum  fatal  dose  of  it  is 
unknown. 

Although  the  use  of  tobacco  as  an  external  remedy  is  no  longer  common,  its  efficacy 
is  sufficiently  well  established  in  several  diseases.  It  has  been  applied  to  the  treatment 
of  scabies  in  man,  and  long  was  used,  and  perhaps  still  is,  for  the  same  disease  in  domestic 
animals,  but  the  risk  of  producing  toxical  symptoms  when  the  skin  is  broken  has  prob- 
ably led  to  its  disuse.  The  same  remark  applies  to  other  cutaneous  eruptions.  The 
bruised  fresh  leaves  of  the  tobacco-plant  have  been  found  a local  palliative  in  urticaria , 
gout , and  rheumatism , and  the  fumes  of  tobacco  have  been  applied  with  advantage  in  the 
last  two  disorders.  Snuffing  has  been  employed  with  success  in  the  cure  of  nasal  polypus, 
for  the  relief  of  chronic  ophthalmia  and  catarrh  of  the  frontal  sinuses , and  in  tropical 
countries  for  destroying  the  worm  which  sometimes  breeds  in  the  antrum  Highmorianum 
and  the  adjacent  parts. 

Internally,  the  smoke  of  tobacco  inhaled  is  a palliative  of  nervous  cough  produced  by 
tickling  in  the  larynx  or  trachea,  and  has  put  an  end  to  an  attack  of  spasmodic  laryngitis 
in  the  same  manner  as  other  nauseants  and  cardiac  sedatives.  A plaster  made  with 
strong  snuff  and  tallow  is  a popular  remedy  in  the  same  disorder,  and  has  been  applied 
in  laryngismus  stridulus.  Obstinate  hiccough  has  been  arrested  by  swallowing  tobacco- 
smoke,  and  dislocations  of  the  lower  jaw  and  of  various  joints  have  been  remedied  while 
the  patient  was  relaxed  by  tobacco-fumes. 

The  relaxing,  nauseating,  and  purgative  operation  of  tobacco  has  been  successfully 
employed  to  overcome  obstruction  of  the  bowel  by  fecal  accumulations.  When  the  usual 
purgative  agents  have  failed,  tobacco  cataplasms  or  enemas  (even  of  tobacco-smoke) 
may  be  cautiously  employed.  It  is  not  certain  that  internal  hernise  and  intussusception 
have  not  been  relieved  by  this  treatment,  but  the  accurate  diagnosis  of  intestinal  obstruc- 
tions is  very  difficult,  and  care  must  be  taken  not  to  exhaust  the  patient  by  heroic  meas- 
ures while  a reasonable  hope  remains  that  nature  will  suffice  for  the  cure.  It  is  quite 
erroneous  to  suppose  that  these  intestinal  obstructions  are  overcome  by  relaxing  muscular 
spasm  : the  only  rational  explanation  of  the  utility  of  tobacco,  and  of  various  other 
medicines  of  the  same  class,  is  that  by  lowering  the  heart’s  action  they  tend  to  diminish 
the  vascular  congestion  of  the  strangulated  organ.  In  lead  colic , in  which  tonic  spasm 
probably  does  exist,  tobacco  may  act  as  a true  antispasmodic,  but  in  this  affection  it  is 
seldom  used. 


TAMARTNDVS. 


1577 


The  powerful  relaxing  influence  of  tobacco  led  naturally  to  its  use  in  the  treatment  of 
tetanus , and  the  list  is  long  of  the  cases  in  which  its  infusion  was  given  by  enema.  More 
recently  nicotine  was  administered  in  this  disease  by  the  mouth  or  the  rectum.  It  is,  as 
might  be  expected,  a surer  remedy  in  the  idiopathic  than  in  the  traumatic  form  of  the 
disease.  Tobacco  has  generally  been  prescribed  in  tetanus  in  an  infusion  made  with  1 .30 
Gm.  (20  grains)  of  the  drug  to  Gm.  250  (I  pint)  of  water,  and  nicotine  in  the  dose 
of  a fraction  of  a drop,  increased  until  its  specific  effects  are  developed.  The  same  means 
as  in  tetanus  have  been  employed  in  several  cases  of  strychnine-poisoning ; but,  according 
to  Haynes,  nicotine  and  strychnine  are  in  no  degree  antagonistic  poisons  ( Phil . Med. 
Times , vii.  363).  It  does  not  follow,  however,  that  at  a certain  stage  of  strychnine- 
poisoning  nicotine  may  not  tend  to  control  the  spinal  spasms.  (See  Strychnine  Sul- 
phas.) The  power  of  tobacco-smoke  to  arrest  or  palliate  paroxysms  of  asthma  is  well 
established.  There  is  reason  to  believe  that  it  is  quite  as  efficient  as  lobelia,  with  which 
it  is  almost  identical  in  operation.  Ascarides  of  the  rectum,  and  even  lumbricoid  worms, 
have  been  expelled  after  the  injection  into  the  rectum  of  tobacco-smoke  or  of  tobacco 
infusion.  It  is  alleged  to  be  an  antidote  to  poisoning  by  mushrooms , but  upon  insufficient 
grounds. 

Tobacco  may  be  given  as  an  emetic  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.30  (gr.  v— vj),  but  it  is  rarely 
prescribed  in  this  form.  The  infusion,  wine,  and  ointment  are  no  longer  officinal.  Fresh 
tobacco-leaves,  which  are  sometimes  used  as  a topical  application,  are  much  feebler  in 
their  action  than  the  cured  leaves,  and  those  especially  which  have  undergone  fermenta- 
tion in  their  manufacture.  The  dose  of  nicotine  has  been  stated  at  Gm.  0.01-0.06  (gr.£-j), 
but  some  authorities  recommend  that  the  primary  dose  should  not  exceed  Gm.  0.001 
(gr.  J-q).  For  hypodermic  injection  a solution  has  been  proposed  containing  Gm.  0.001 
(gr.  g^)  in  every  5 drops.  Of  this  solution  the  primary  dose  should  not  exceed  Gm. 
0.0005  (y^Q-  grain).  Nicotine  should  never  be  used  internally  if  other  preparations  of 
tobacco  can  be  procured. 


TAMARINDUS,  U.  S,,  Br. — Tamarind. 

Pulpa  tamarindorum  cruda , P.  G. ; Fructus  tamarindorum. — Tamarinier  (pidpe'),  F. 
Cod. ; Tamarin , Fr. ; Tamar  indenmus,  G. ; Tamarindo , Sp. 


T.  officinalis,  Hooker. 


Bentley 


The  preserved  fruit  of  Tamarindus  indica,  Linne , s. 
and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 92. 

Nat.  Ord. — Leguminosae,  Caesalpineae. 

Origin. — The  tamarind  tree,  18-24  M.  (60  to  80  feet)  high,  is  indigenous  to  India 
and  throughout  tropical  Africa,  and  has 

been  introduced  into  all  tropical  countries.  Fig.  S04. 

It  has  alternate  abruptly  pinnate  evergreen 
leaves,  with  from  ten  to  eighteen  pairs  of 
oval-oblong,  at  the  base  unequal,  veined 
leaflets,  and  produces  few-flowered  terminal 
and  lateral  racemes.  The  fragrant  flowers 
have  a four-lobed  calyx,  the  upper  lobe 
being  broad  and  two-toothed ; the  corolla 
is  white,  afterward  yellow,  red-veined,  and 
consists  of  three  elliptical  petals,  which  are 
longer  than  the  calyx ; occasionally  two 
more  petals,  linear  and  minute,  are  present ; 
the  nine  or  ten  stamens  are  monadelphous, 
but  only  three  or  four  have  anthers ; the 
ovary  is  stalked  and  has  a long  style.  The 
fruit  is  an  indehiscent  usually  curved  legume, 
about  15  Cm.  (6  inches)  long  and  nearly 
25  Mm.  (1  inch)  broad.  The  West  Indian 
tree  bears  a fruit  which  is  only  about  three 
times  longer  than  broad,  and  was  formerly 
regarded  as  a distinct  species,  T.  occidentalis, 

Gaertner.  The  fruit  has  a thin,  fragile,  pale- 

i • i i n / . i i .I  Tamarindus  indica,  LinnP, : flowering  branch,  pod,  and 

brownish  shell  (pericarp),  and  underneath  pod  with  shell  reni0ved. 

this  there  are  found  on  each  side  three  tough 

fibrous  somewhat  branching  veins  running  from  the  base  to  the  apex.  Next  follows  an 


1578 


TANACETUM. 


acidulous  pulp,  and  this  adheres  to  a tough  membrane  which  encloses  from  three  to  ten 
cavities,  each  of  which  contains  a single  flat  somewhat  quadrangular  and  polished  brown 
seed. 

Preparation. — Before  tamarinds  enter  commerce  the  shell  is  removed,  and  the  inner 
portion  is  in  India  pressed  together  into  a mass  to  which  sometimes  sugar  is  added.  In 
Upper  Egypt  it  is  formed  into  cakes  which  are  dried  in  the  sun,  and  in  the  West  Indies 
hot  syrup  is  poured  over  the  pulpy  mass.  The  fresh  leaves  and  flowers  have  an  acidu- 
lous taste,  and  are  used  in  tropical  countries  for  the  preparation  of  cooling  drinks. 

Description. — As  seen  in  our  commerce,  tamarinds  form  a reddish-brown  soft  mass 
in  which  the  interior  portion  of  the  fruit  is  more  or  less  broken.  They  have  a fruit-like 
odor  and  an  acidulous  and  sweet  taste.  East  Indian  tamarinds  are  tougher  and  darker  in 
color  and  have  a less  sweet  taste.  Egyptian  tamarinds  appear  in  hard,  flattish,  circular 
cakes,  about  15  Cm.  (6  inches)  in  diameter,  of  a brown-black  color  externally,  and  fre- 
quently mouldy.  The  last  two  varieties  are  rarely  met  with  in  American  commerce.  On 
leaving  the  clean  blade  of  an  iron  spatula  for  thirty  minutes  in  contact  with  tamarinds, 
it  should  not  become  covered  with  a coating  of  copper. 

Constituents. — Vauquelin  ascertained  tamarinds  to  contain  sugar,  tartaric,  citric, 
and  a little  malic  acid,  pectin,  and  mucilaginous  matter.  The  acids  are  mostly  present  as 
potassium  compounds.  Acetic  acid  has  likewise  been  found  in  tamarinds  ; it  probably 
results  from  the  fermentation  of  the  sugar.  Tannin  is  not  present,  except  in  the  testa 
of  the  seeds.  C.  Mueller  (1882)  found  in  East  Indian  tamarinds  very  little  malic  acid  ; 
citric  acid  varied  between  6 and  4 per  cent.,  tartaric  acid  between  5.3  and  8.8  per  cent., 
potassium  bitartrate  between  4.7  and  6 per  cent.,  the  insoluble  matter  of  the  pulp  between 
12  and  20  per  cent.,  and  the  seeds  between  1.5  and  38  (average  13.9)  per  cent. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Tamarinds  are  employed  in  the  preparation  of  Confectio 
sennae,  U.  N.,  Br.,  being  freed  from  vegetable  tissues  by  means  of  water  and  straining. 

Pulpa  tamarindorum  depurata,  P.  G.,  is  made  by  softening  East  Indian  tamarinds 
with  sufficient  boiling  water,  straining  the  mass  through  a hair  sieve,  evaporating  the 
strained  portion  to  the  consistence  of  an  extract,  and  incorporating  with  5 parts  of  it  1 
part  of  powdered  sugar. 

Conserva  tamarindi,  F.  Cod.  Tamarind-pulp  2 parts  ; powdered  sugar  5 parts, 
water  sufficient  for  8 parts. 

Tamar  indien  is  a confection  of  senna  flavored  with  anise  and  oil  of  lemon. 

Action  and  Uses. — Tamarinds  are  mentioned  by  the  Arabian  medical  writers  as 
antibilious  and  useful  in  correcting  nausea,  quenching  thirst,  and  allaying  febrile  excite- 
ment, and  also  as  being  efficient  in  healing  aphthous  sores.  They  are  still  used  for  similar 
purposes,  and  especially  to  prepare  a cooling  drink  in  febrile  diseases.  They  should  be 
mixed  with  hot  water,  and  the  strained  liquid  allowed  to  cool.  An  ounce  of  tamarind- 
pulp  boiled  with  a pint  of  milk  produces  a whey  which  also  forms  an  agreeable  drink  in 
fevers.  Although  reputed  to  impair  the  purgative  action  of  senna,  they  are  habitually 
used  along  with  that  cathartic  in  magistral  preparations,  as  well  as  in  the  officinal  con- 
fection of  senna. 

TANACETUM,  V.  S.—' Tansy. 

Summitates  tanaceti. — Tanaisie,  F.  Cod.;  Herbe  aux  vers,  Fr. ; Rainfarn , Wurmkraut, 
G. ; Tanaceto , Sp. 

The  leaves  and  tops  of  Tanacetum  vulgare,  Linne , s.  Chrysanthemum  Tanacetum, 
Karsch. 

Nat.  Ord. — Composite,  Senecionidese. 

Origin  and  Description. — Tansy  is  a perennial  herb  indigenous  to  Europe  and 
Central  Asia  and  naturalized  in  many  parts  of  North  America,  where  it  grows  in  old 
fields,  along  roadsides,  and  in  the  neighborhood  of  river-banks.  The  stout  and  fibrous 
many-headed  root  sends  up  a cluster  of  nearly  simple  stems  which  are  .9—1.2  M.  (3  or  4 
feet)  high,  roundish-angular,  and  frequently  purplish  at  the  base.  The  leaves  are  alter- 
nate, shortly  petiolate  or  sessile,  from  12—25  Cm.  (5  to  10  inches)  long  and  nearly  half  as 
wide,  smooth,  dark-green,  dotted  with  oil-glands,  bipinnately  divided,  and  the  segments 
rounded,  incised,  or  coarsely  serrate.  The  flowers  are  in  a dense  terminal  corymb,  have 
an  imbricate  involucre  with  numerous  brown-margined  scales,  a convex  naked  receptacle, 
and  numerous  yellow  florets,  with  the  marginal  ones  pistillate  and  three-toothed,  but  not 
ligulate.  The  akenes  are  obovate,  about  five-ribbed,  and  terminate  with  a crown-like 
pappus.  The  plant  commences  to  bloom  in  July,  and  should  be  collected  while  flowering ; 
on  drying  the  loss  in  weight  is  from  80  to  85  per  cent.  It  has  a strong,  rather  unpleas- 


TANACETUM. 


1579 


ant  odor,  and  an  aromatic,  pungent,  and  bitter  taste.  A variety,  Tan.  crispum,  with 
twice-pinnatifid  and  curled  leaves,  is  frequently  cultivated,  and  is  known  as  double 
tansy. 

Constituents. — Among  the  ordinary  constituents  of  tansy,  Peschier  and  Fromm- 
herz  found  mucilage,  sugar,  albumen,  fixed  oil,  resin,  tannin,  coloring  matter,  and  malic 
acid,  with  which  Peschier’s  tanacetic  acid  is  probably  identical.  The  bitter  principle  was 
isolated  by  Leroy  (1845)  by  a process  similar  to  that  for  digitalin.  This  tanacetin  is 
described  as  being  yellowish-white,  granular,  inodorous,  fusible,  soluble  in  ether,  less 
freely  soluble  in  alcohol,  and  sparingly  soluble  in  water.  Leppig  (1882)  gives  for  it  the 
formula  CnH1604,  and  found  it  to  be  present  chiefly  in  the  flowers  ; sulphuric  acid  colors 
it  yellow,  then  brown,  red-brown,  and  blood-red,  the  margin  becoming  blue.  The  most 
important  constituent  of  tansy  is  its  volatile  oil,  of  which  the  fresh  flowering  herb  yields 
i to  i per  cent,  of  its  weight.  Oil  of  tansy , Oleum  tanaceti , is  an  oxygenated  oil  of  neu- 
tral or  slightly  acid  reaction,  varies  in  density  between  0.92  and  0.95,  and  has  either  a 
yellow  or  green  color.  According  to  Geoffrey,  the  herb  grown  in  dry  places  yields  a 
green-colored  volatile  oil,  but  if  grown  in  moist  localities  the  oil  is  yellow.  Oil  of  tansy 
has  a camphoraceous  aromatic  odor  and  a bitterish  pungent  taste,  deviates  polarized  light 
to  the  left,  is  readily  soluble  in  alcohol,  dissolves  iodine  without  explosive  action,  and  is 
readily  oxidized  on  being  heated  with  nitric  acid.  Bruylants  (1877)  found  in  it  1 per 
cent,  of  a terpene,  C10H16,  boiling  near  160°  C.  (320°  F.),  and  a small  quantity  of  an  acid 
and  a neutral  resin,  while  the  greater  portion  consists  of  the  aldehyde,  C10Hj6O,  mixed 
with  about  20  per  cent,  of  the  alcohol,  C10H18O. 

Allied  Plant. — 1 Anacetum  Balsamita,  Linn£,  s.  Pyrethrum  Tanacetum,  De  Candolle,  Balsamita 
suaveolens,  Persoon. — Costmary,  E. ; Balsamite,  Fr. ; Frauenminze,  G. — This  is  a perennial 
herb  of  Southern  Europe,  with  undivided  serrate,  oval-oblong,  petiolate  leaves,  and  discoid,  yel- 
low, hemispherical  flower-heads  in  terminal  corymbs.  It  has  a strong  aromatic  odor  and  bitter 
taste,  and  is  employed  like  tansy,  and  recognized  as  such  by  the  French  Codex. 

Action  and  Uses. — 2J  drachms  of  the  oil  occasioned  loss  of  consciousness,  convul- 
sions, foaming  at  the  mouth,  dilated  pupils,  and  frequent  pulse,  followed  by  recovery. 
( Tlierap . Gaz .,  ix.  342.  Compare  Med.  Record , xxxvi.  342.)  In  fatal  cases  death  is 
usually  caused  by  coma  and  asphyxia.  In  a case  of  fatal  poisoning  by  a decoction  of 
the  herb  death  took  place  by  paralysis  of  the  muscles  of  deglutition,  respiration,  and 
voluntary  motion.  Instead  of  these  nervous  symptoms,  an  infusion  of  tansy  caused 
vomiting,  purging,  severe  abdominal  pain,  and  death  in  collapse,  without  previous  impair- 
ment of  intelligence  (. Phila . Med.  Times,  xi.  346).  In  another  case  it  was  attended  with 
convulsions,  and  followed  the  taking  of  a teaspoonful  of  oil  of  tansy  in  an  hour  and  a 
quarter.  In  a fatal  case  following  a dose  of  11  drachms  of  oil  of  tansy  no  congestion  of 
the  brain  was  found,  but  the  heart  was  full  of  black  blood  and  the  lungs  were  shrunken 
and  crepitous.  The  stomach  was  not  inflamed  (Jewett,  Boston  Med.  and  Bury.  Jour., 
March,  1880,  p.  327). 

The  fatal  poisonous  dose  of  oil  of  tansy  is  undetermined  ; very  grave  symptoms  have 
been  produced  by  Gm.  2 (fi^ss),  and  even  by  a dose  of  Gm.  1-1.30  (gtt.  xv-xx). 

Tansy  was  used  in  the  Middle  Ages  and  subsequently  as  a remedy  for  amenorrhcea, 
worms,  and  dropsy,  and,  although  it  is  no  longer  regarded  as  of  equal  potency  with  other 
medicines  in  these  diseases,  its  efficacy  cannot  be  reasonably  questioned.  Its  tonic  and 
stimulant  virtues  resemble  those  of  absinth,  but  there  can  be  little  doubt  that  it  causes  a 
vascular  congestion  of  the  abdominal  organs,  increasing  the  secretion  of  urine  and  pro- 
moting the  menstrual  discharge.  It  is  largely  employed  in  domestic  practice,  especially 
in  rural  districts,  to  promote  or  restore  menstruation,  and  sometimes  with  a criminal  inten- 
tion as  an  abortifacient,  but,  so  far  as  appears,  unsuccessfully.  Its  fruit  is  held  by  some 
to  be  as  efficient  as  chenopodium  in  the  destruction  and  expulsion  of  lumbricoid  worms, 
and  the  bruised  leaves  have  been  applied  to  the  abdomen  for  the  same  purpose.  In  this 
manner,  and  also  in  vinous  and  spirituous  infusion,  tansy  has  been  in  vogue  as  a topical 
application  for  bruises,  sprains,  muscular  rheumatism,  chronic  ulcers , etc.  Internally,  it 
affords  relief  in  flatulent  colic,  and  is  not  without  efficacy  in  hysterical  disorders. 

The  dose  of  the  powder  of  the  fruit  of  tansy  is  Gm.  0.60-3  (gr.  x-xl)  and  of  the 
flowers  from  Gm.  1.30-8  (gr.  xx-cxx).  An  infusion  may  be  prepared  with  Gm.  16-32 
(jjjss- j)  of  the  seeds,  or  with  Gm.  32—64  in  Gm.  500  (^j  ;n  Oj)  of  boiling  water,  and 
prescribed  in  doses  of  Gm.  32-64  (f^j-ij).  The  oil  may  be  given  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.05- 
0.25  (gtt.  j-iv)  or  more. 


1580 


TARAXACUM. 


Fig.  305. 


Transverse  section  of 
Taraxacum-root. 


TARAXACUM,  U.  S. — Taraxacum  (Dandelion). 

Taraxaci  radix , Br.  ; Radix  taraxaci , P.  A. — Dandelion-root , E. ; Pissenlit , Dent  de  lion, 
Couronne  de  moine,  Fr.  ; Lowenzahn,  Pfaffenrohrchen , G. ; Diente  de  leon,  Sp. 

The  root,  gathered  in  the  autumn  (£7.  S.,  Br.,  P.  A.),  of  Taraxacum  officinale,  Weber 
(T.  Dens-leonis,  Desfontaines,  T.  vulgare,  Schra.nk,  Leontodon  Taraxacum,  Linne).  Wood- 
ville,  Med.  Bot .,  plate  3;  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  159. 

Nat.  Ord. — Compositae,  Cichoriaceae. 

Origin. — Dandelion  is  a perennial  acaulescent  herb,  with  a tuft  of  spreading  short- 
stalked  radical  leaves,  which  are  about  20  Cm.  (8  inches)  long,  obovate-oblong,  acute, 
and  on  the  margin  runcinately  and  coarsely  serrate.  The  flower-heads 
are  terminal  upon  the  hollow  scapes,  about  38  Mm.  (1?  inches)  in 
diameter,  and  have  an  erect  imbricate  involucre  and  numerous  ligulate, 
yellow,  and  five-toothed  florets.  The  akene  is  compressed,  obovate- 
oblong,  and  terminated  by  a silky-hairy,  spreading  pappus  raised  upon 
a long  stalk.  The  plant  grows  in  waste  places,  pastures,  and  on  road- 
sides, and  is  met  with  in  most  countries  of  the  northern  hemisphere. 
Collected  in  spring  and  dried,  the  root  loses  from  80  to  85  per  cent, 
in  weight,  but  if  collected  in  autumn  the  loss  on  drying  ranges  from  70 
to  75  per  cent. 

Description. — The  root  is  from  15-30-40  Cm.  (6  to  12  or  16 
inches)  long,  nearly  cylindrical,  12-25  Mm.  (4  to  1 inch)  thick,  crowned  with  several  short 
thickish  heads  above  and  furnished  with  few  branches  below.  Fresh,  it  is  light  yellow- 
ish-brown and  fleshy  ; when  dry,  brown  or  dark-brown,  much  wrinkled  longitudinally  ; 
internally,  it  is  white  with  a yellowish  centre.  It  is  inodorous  and  has  a bitter  taste.  It 
is  hygroscopic,  and  in  damp  weather  rather  flexible,  but  when  dry  breaks  with  a short  frac- 
ture, showing  the  pale-yellow  porous  wood  surrounded  by  a dark-brown  cambium-line  and 
a thick  white  bark,  with  concentric  circles  of  milk-vessels  of  a brownish  color,  and  sepa- 
rated by  layers  of  thin-walled  and  axially  elongated  parenchyma.  The  meditullium  has 
no  medullary  rays,  and  consists  mainly  of  ducts  varying  in  diameter  and  more  or  less 
interspersed  with  thin-walled,  elongated  cells. 

After  frost  and  early  in  the  spring,  particularly  when  grown  in  a rich  soil,  the  root 
contains  much  sugar  and  levulin  ; during  the  spring  and  summer  the  milk-juice  becomes 
thicker  and  the  bitter  taste  increases ; the  root  is  therefore  directed  to  be  collected  in  the 
autumn.  The  early  spring  root  yields  a sweetish-bitter  extract.  Bentley  regards  the  root 
collected  about  July  as  most  efficient.  The  Austrian  Pharmacopoeia  directs  also  the  leaves, 
Folia  taraxaci , collected  in  the  spring,  for  use  in  the  preparation  of  the  extract ; for  the 
same  purpose  the  German  Pharmacopoeia  orders  Radix  taraxaci  cum  lierba  collected 
before  flowering. 

Constituents. — The  bitter  principle,  taraxacin,  was  obtained  by  Polex  (1839)  in  a 
crystalline  state  by  treating  the  milk-juice  with  boiling  water  and  evaporating.  Kro- 
mayer  (1864)  left  the  aqueous  solution  in  contact  with  animal  charcoal,  from  which  after- 
ward alcohol  dissolved  the  bitter  principle,  requiring  treatment  with  lead  acetate  and  sul- 
phuretted hydrogen  to  free  it  from  various  principles ; it  was  obtained  as  an  amorphous 
bitter  mass.  The  milk-juice  contains  also  resin  and  taraxacerin , C8H160,  which  is  insol- 
uble in  water,  crystallizes  from  hot  alcohol,  and  when  in  an  alcoholic  solution  has  an  acrid 
taste.  The  dry  root  yields  from  5 to  7 per  cent,  of  ash. 

Dandelion-root  collected  in  October  yielded  to  Dragendorff  (1870)  24  per  cent,  of  inulin 
and  a little  sugar,  but  when  collected  in  March  only  1.74  per  cent,  of  inulin  was  found, 
and  about  18  per  cent,  each  of  uncrystallizable  sugar  and  levulin , the  latter  being  inter- 
mediate between  inulin  and  sugar  in  having  the  composition  of  inulin,  but  being  of  a sweet 
taste,  soluble  in  cold  water,  and  without  influence  on  polarized  light.  Frickhinger  (1840) 
and  T.  and  H.  Smith  (1849)  proved  that  the  mannit,  which  is  sometimes  found  in  notable 
quantities  in  the  extract,  does  not  pre-exist  in  the  root,  and  that,  on  the  contrary,  it  is  a 
product  resulting  from  fermentation. 

The  presence  of  fermentable  sugar  has  been  noticed  by  most  investigators,  and  Dragen- 
dorff’s  observations  confirm  the  results  previously  obtained  by  Frickhinger,  Widemann, 
and  Overbeck  (1827),  that  the  sugar  predominates  in  the  spring  root,  and  inulin  in  the 
root  collected  in  autumn.  It  seems  to  follow  therefrom  that  the  extract  and  other  prepa- 
rations made  from  the  expressed  juice  or  by  treating  the  autumn  root  with  cold  water 
should  be  more  efficacious  and  less  loaded  with  inert  matters  (sugar,  etc.)  than  those 
obtained  from  the  spring  root.  Old  extract  of  taraxacum  sometimes  contains  granular 


TARAXACUM. 


1581 


crystals  of  calcium  lactate  (Ludwig,  1861)  ; the  lactic  acid  is  probably  produced  from 
iuosit,  which,  according  to  Marine  (1864),  exists  in  the  leaves  and  stalks  of  dandelion,  but 
is  not  found  in  the  root. 

Allied  Drug. — Cichorium  Ixtybus,  Limit,  indigenous  to  Europe  and  the  Levant,  is  naturalized 
in  fields  and  along  roadsides  in  North  America  westward  to  Minnesota,  and  is  largely  cultivated 
in  some  parts  of  Europe.  The  root  of  the  wild-grown  plant  soon  becomes  woody,  but  cultivated 
it  remains  fleshy  and  has  a thicker  bark.  It  resembles  dandelion-root,  but  it  is  of  a rather  lighter 
color,  and  upon  transverse  section  shows  the  white  bark-tissue  radially  striate  from  the  milk-ves- 
sels, and  the  yellowish  finely  porous  wood  marked  by  fine  medullary  rays.  About  4,000,000 
pounds  of  this  root,  usually  cut  into  short  pieces,  are  annually  imported  from  Europe.  The 
bitter  principle  of  chicory  has  not  been  isolated.  The  cultivated  root,  from  which,  collected  in 
July,  Dragendorff  obtained  36  per  cent,  of  inulin,  has  been  recommended  as  a source  of  alcohol, 
which  is  said  to  be  easily  obtainable  in  a state  of  purity  and  .'possessed  of  a pleasant  aromatic 
taste.  According  to  Nietzki  (1876),  the  flowers  contain  a crystalline  glucoside  insoluble  in  ether, 
dissolving  in  alkalies  with  a yellow  color. 

Chicory-root  (Succory,  E. ; Chicoree  sauvage,  Fr. ; Cichorie,  G.)  is  not  unfrequently  substituted 
for  dandelion-root  in  the  preparation  of  extract  and  fluid  extract.  While  the  roots  of  the  two  plants, 
notwithstanding  their  resemblance,  may  be  distinguished  from  each  other  without  difficulty  (see 
above),  no  reliable  tests  are  known  by  which  their  pharmaceutical  preparations  may  be  distin- 
guished. It  is  therefore  best  for  pharmacists  to  prepare  them  from  the  properly-selected  drug. 

Besides  the  root  of  the  wild  plant,  the  French  Codex  recognizes  also  chickory-leaves,  of  which 
the  radical  ones  are  oblong,  more  or  less  runcinate  or  lyrate  and  acute,  while  the  cauline  leaves 
are  lanceolate,  the  upper  ones  clasping,  toothed  or  entire.  They  contain  a bitter  principle,  sugar, 
albuminoids  and  salts.  The  young  leaves  are  slightly  bitter.  When  cultivated  and  protected 
from  the  light  the  leaves  are  yellow,  and  are  used  as  salad  in  France  under  the  name  of  barbe 
de  capucin. 

Cichorium  Endivia,  Linn£,  a native  of  the  Levant,  is  cultivated  for  its  bitterish  leaves,  known 
as  endive,  E. ; Scarole,  Fr.  •,  Endivie,  G. 

Medical  Action  and  Uses. — The  first  distinct  mention  of  dandelion  is  by  Arabian 
medical  writers,  who  state  it  to  be  a very  efficacious  deobstruent  and  purifier  of  the  blood. 
At  the  close  of  the  last  century  it  was  greatly  in  vogue  as  a remedy  for  chronic  affections 
of  the  liver  and  bowels,  for  renal  calculus,  some  cutaneous  diseases,  etc.  Its  diuretic 
qualities  are  recognized  in  its  popular  names,  pissenlit,  lectiminga,  etc.  Rutherford  and 
Vignal  concluded  from  their  experiments  that  taraxacum  is  a very  feeble  hepatic  stimu- 
lant. It  is  employed,  now,  as  formerly,  in  cases  of  hepatic  congestion  due  to  or  associated 
with  atonic  dyspepsia  and  constipation.  It  has  been  regarded  as  useful  in  pulmonary  con- 
sumption— possibly,  if  at  all,  by  its  action  upon  the  stomach  and  bowels,  and  indirectly 
upon  the  liver. 

Dandelion  is  frequently  administered  in  decoction,  of  which  the  dose  is  from  Gm.  64- 
128  (2  to  4 fluidounces).  It  is  apt  to  ferment.  The  extract  is  of  little  use.  The  fluid 
extract  and  the  juice  are  probably  its  most  active  forms. 

Chicory  is  thought  to  increase  the  appetite,  promote  the  digestion,  and  stimulate  the 
liver — in  a word,  to  operate  very  nearly  as  dandelion  is  supposed  to  act.  Its  excessive 
use  is  alleged  to  occasion  venous  congestion  of  the  abdominal  organs,  the  brain,  and  the 
organs  of  the  senses.  In  this  manner  it  has  been  accused  of  causing  amaurosis.  The 
fresh  young  plant  is  generally  eaten,  like  endive,  as  a salad  in  the  spring  season,  as  a 
“purifier  of  the  blood  ” — i.  e.  as  a promoter  of  the  secretions  of  the  liver,  bowels,  and 
kidneys.  Even  from  ancient  times  it  has  been  recommended  in  cases  for  which  dandelion 
is  commonly  used,  including  those  of  feeble  digestion  with  flatulence,  constipation,  and 
light-colored  stools — a condition  erroneously  supposed  to  denote  torpor  of  the  liver.  It 
is  alleged  to  have  cured  intermittent  fevers  which  quinine  failed  to  arrest,  especially  when 
engorgement  of  the  liver  and  spleen  was  present,  with  general  dropsy.  It  is  also  asserted 
to  have  been  useful  in  chronic  diseases  of  the  skin,  particularly  in  those  of  a gouty  origin. 
Chicory-root  dried,  roasted,  and  reduced  to  a coarse  powder  has  a close  resemblance  to 
ground  coffee,  and  is  extensively  used  for  mixing  with  the  latter  or  for  fraudulently  adul- 
terating it.  To  those  who  are  not  aware  that  the  proper  flavor  of  coffee  depends  upon  its 
aromatic  volatile  oil,  and  who  measure  its  strength  by  its  bitterness,  the  substitution  of 
chicory  can  cause  no  disappointment  or  injury.  It  is  probable  that  an  infusion  of  chicory 
taken  at  meals  as  a substitute  for  coffee  would  be  preferable  to  the  latter  on  the  score 
of  health,  and  it  is  still  more  probable  that  pure  water  would  be  more  wholesome 
than  either ; but  such  facts  furnish  no  reason  why  the  public  should  be  deluded  into 
believing  that  in  drinking  an  infusion  of  chicory  they  are  using  a true  substitute  for 
coffee. 


1582 


TAXUS. 


TAXUS.— Yew. 

If  commun , Fr. ; Elbe,  G. ; Tejo , Sp. 

Taxus  baccata,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 253. 

iVa£.  Ord. — Coniferm. 

Origin  and  Description. — The  yew  is  an  evergreen  shrub,  or  more  frequently  a 
tree  of  very  slow  growth,  but  attaining  a height  of  9-12  M.  (30  or  40  feet).  It  is  indig- 
enous to  Asia  from  Siberia  southward  to  the  Himalaya  Mountains,  and  westward  to  Syria, 
Northern  Africa,  and  the  greater  part  of  Europe.  It  has  been  introduced  as  an  orna- 
mental tree  into  North  America,  and  is  naturalized  to  some  extent.  The  tree  has  a 
red-brown  bark,  numerous  and  spreading  (or  in  one  variety  f'astigiate)  branches,  and 
closely  placed,  nearly  sessile,  and  two-ranked  or  crowded  leaves,  which  are  linear,  entire, 
flat,  somewhat  curved,  acute,  glossy-green  above,  pale-green  beneath,  and  about  25  Mm. 
(1  inch)  long.  The  fruit  or  berry  consists  of  a globular-ovate,  acutish  or  blunt,  black- 
brown  seed,  surrounded  by  a fleshy  cup-shaped  scarlet-red  arillus,  which  is  open  at  the 
top,  and  at  the  base  furnished  with  two  or  three  rows  of  small  scales.  The  young 
branches  with  the  leaves  attached  and  the  fruit  have  been  employed  medicinally.  The 
former  have  an  unpleasant  terebinthinaceous  odor  and  a disagreeable  bitter  and  acrid 
taste.  The  taste  of  the  fleshy  part  of  the  berry  is  sweetish  and  not  unpleasant,  but  the 
seed  is  bitter. 

Constituents. — The  leaves  were  examined  by  Peretti  (1828)  and  Bighini  (1837), 
who,  besides  the  common  principles,  found  in  them  volatile  oil,  tannin,  and  an  amorphous 
bitter  principle.  Lucas  (1843)  isolated  the  latter  in  the  form  of  an  amorphous  bitter 
powder  which  is  sparingly  soluble  in  water,  but  freely  soluble  in  dilute  acids,  in  alcohol, 
and  ether.  The  salts  of  this  taxine  are  uncrystallizable,  and  are  precipitated  by  tannin 
and  by  alkalies.  Marine  (1876)  obtained  the  alkaloid  in  a crystalline  condition  from  the 
leaves  and  in  small  proportion  from  the  seeds ; besides  the  solvents  mentioned  before, 
it  is  soluble  also  in  chloroform,  benzene,  and  carbon  disulphide,  is  precipitated  by  all 
group  reagents  of  the  alkaloids  except  the  chlorides  of  mercury,  gold,  and  platinum  and 
potassium  platino-cyanide,  and  is  colored  purplish-red  by  sulphuric  acid,  but  dissolves 
without  coloration  in  other  acids,  and  has  poisonous  properties.  Amato  and  Capparelli 
prepared  from  the  leaves  a crystalline,  nitrogenated,  colorless  compound,  milossin , which 
is  insoluble  in  water,  and  a volatile  alkaloid  which  has  a peculiar  musty  odor  and  is  col- 
ored green  by  sulphuric  acid  and  potassium  chromate,  the  color  changing  to  violet  on 
warming.  The  air-dry  leaves  yield  5.5  per  cent,  of  ash  (Roth,  1876).  The  red  coloring 
matter  of  the  arillus  is  soluble  in  alcohol  and  ether,  but  insoluble  in  water. 

Allied  Plants. — The  American  yew,  Taxus  canadensis,  Willdenow , is  regarded  by  Gray  as  a 
low,  straggling  variety  of  the  above  species  ; its  leaves  are  mucronate,  and  have  a revolute  or 
subrevolute  margin.  The  yew  of  the  Pacific  coast,  Taxus  brevifolia,  Nuttall , is  a tree  growing 
in  Oregon  to  the  height  of  15  M.  (50  feet),  but  is  smaller  in  California.  The  Irish  yew,  T.  hiber- 
nica,  Mack , has  a yellow  fruit.  T.  nucifera,  Kampfer , indigenous  to  Japan,  has  a green  fruit, 
the  fleshy  portion  of  which  is  astringent  and  pungent,  while  the  seed  is  sweet  and  oily. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  effects  which  are  produced  by  yew  on  man  vary  materially 
in  different  cases,  and,  in  general,  the  larger  the  dose  of  the  poison  the  less  definite  and 
various  are  the  symptoms.  When  they  are  fully  developed  they  comprise  irritation  of 
the  stomach  and  bowels,  with  vomiting,  and  sometimes  purging,  difficult  urination,  pallor, 
giddiness,  prostration,  coldness,  spasm,  or  partial  paralysis,  irregular  and  feeble  action  of 
the  heart,  and  death  by  coma  or  by  syncope.  The  latter  mode  of  death  occurs  most 
frequently  when  the  dose  of  the  poison  is  very  large,  and  then  the  phenomena  of  nervous 
irritation  and  exhaustion  and  the  gastric  disturbance  may  be  very  trifling,  the  patient 
dying  by  rapid  asthenia  or  by  absolute  syncope.  In  the  case  of  a young  woman  who 
took  the  leaves  of  yew  as  an  abortive,  death  occurred  without  convulsion,  and  her  coun- 
tenance was  as  natural  as  in  sleep.  In  another  case  eleven  persons  partook  of  a decoction 
of  yew  ; some  of  them  were  seized  with  giddiness,  confusion  of  sight,  pain  in  the  head, 
nausea,  and  vomiting,  and  then  fell  asleep ; but  two  of  them  died  within  an  hour  without 
pain  or  convulsion.  The  fatal  dose  varies  greatly  ; a decoction  of  from  2 to  5 ounces  has 
destroyed  life. 

A jelly  prepared  from  the  berries  of  yew  has  been  employed  in  the  treatment  of 
chronic  catarrh  of  the  bronchia  and  the  urinary  passages,  and  the  leaves  have  been  recom- 
mended in  scurvy,  epilepsy , and  other  spasmodic  affections,  and  been  used  by  the  vulgar  as 
an  emmenagogue,  and  especially  as  an  abortive.  The  efficiency  of  yew  in  these  conditions 


TEPHR  OSIA  .—TEREBEN  UM. 


1583 


is  far  from  proven,  and  among  the  numerous  cases  in  which  it  has  been  employed  to  pro- 
voke abortion  several  have  resulted  fatally  to  the  mother,  but  in  none  was  the  foetus 
expelled.  The  leaves  have  been  prescribed  in  doses  of  from  Gm.  0.06-0.30  (gr.  j-v),  or 
in  a decoction  or  infusion  made  with  from  Gm.  0.50-1  in  Gm.  120  (gr.  viij-xvj  in  f^iv) 
of  water. 

In  poisoning  by  this  substance  the  stomach  should  be  speedily  evacuated,  after  which 
milk  may  be  given  in  small  quantities  to  allay  the  irritation,  and  alcoholic  liquids  in 
stimulant  doses. 

TEPHROSIA.— Goat’s  Rue. 

Turkey  pea,  Hoary  pea,  Devil's  shoestring,  E. ; Tephrosie,  Fr.,  G. 

Tephrosia  (Galega,  Linne)  virginiana,  Persoon.  Meehan,  Native  Flowers,  i.  81. 

Nat.  Ord. — Leguminosae,  Papilionaceae. 

Origin  and  Description. — -This  species  is  an  herbaceous  perennial  growing  in 
sandy  soil  in  Canada  and  the  United  States  westward  to  the  Mississippi.  Its  root  is 
many-headed  and  divided  into  several  nearly  horizontal  branches,  which  are  about  12 
Mm.  (I  inch)  in  diameter,  30-60  Cm.  (1  to  2 feet)  long,  somewhat  beset  with  fibres, 
rather  tough  and  flexible,  externally  brown-gray  and  internally  whitish.  The  stems  are 
about  60  Cm.  (2  feet)  high,  nearly  simple,  more  or  less  woolly,  and  have  numerous  alter- 
nate, oddly-pinnate  leaves,  with  about  ten  pairs  of  oblong,  mucronate,  shortly-stalked, 
straight-veined,  and  silky-villous,  pale-green  leaflets.  The  flowers  are  in  terminal  and 
axillary  racemes,  white,  rose-colored,  and  red,  and  produce  a curved  silky  legume. 

The  root,  and  occasionally  the  herb,  have  been  employed ; the  root  is  without  odor  and 
has  a bitterish  and  somewhat  acrid  taste. 

Constituents. — The  principles  to  which  the  properties  of  goat’s  rue  may  be  due  are 
unknown. 

Allied  Plants. — Tephrosia  appolinea,  De  Candolle.  The  leaflets  have  occasionally  been  used 
as  a substitute  for,  or  for  the  adulteration  of,  senna-leaves  (see  p.  1441). 

T.  toxicaria,  Persoon , is  indigenous  to  Africa  and  naturalized  in  tropical  America.  It  has 
deep-red  flowers  and  a poisonous  root. 

T.  purpurea  and  T.  spi^osa,  Persoon,  indigenous  to  India,  have  bitter  roots,  which  are  em- 
ployed for  their  tonic  properties. 

T.  leptostachya,  De  Candolle,  is  a native  of  Senegambia.  Its  root  and  leaves  are  regarded  as 
possessing  purgative  properties. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  root  as  well  as  the  leaves  of  the  native  tephrosia  is  said  to 
be  laxative,  tonic,  and  vermifuge.  For  the  last-named  purpose  a decoction  of  the  root 
has  been  used.  It  may  be  prepared  by  boiling  Gm.  32  in  Gm.  500  (^j  in  Oj)  of  water, 
to  the  reduction  of  one-half.  Dose , Gm.  16-32  (f^ss-j).  It  has  also  been  reported  to  be 
useful  in  the  treatment  of  typhoid  fever,  but,  as  it  was  not  given  alone,  its  value  in  this 
disease  cannot  be  estimated. 

TEREBENUM,  TJ.  S . — Terebene. 

Terebene,  Fr. ; T&reben,  G. 

Formula  C10H16.  Molecular  weight  135.7. 

A liquid  consisting  chiefly  of  pinene,  and  containing  not  more  than  very  small  propor- 
tions of  terpinene  and  dipentene.  Terebene  should  be  kept  in  well-stoppered  bottles  in  a 
cool  place,  protected  from  light. — TJ.  S. 

Preparation. — By  repeatedly  treating  oil  of  turpentine  with  concentrated  sulphuric 
acid  or  phosphoric  anhydride  it  is  rendered  optically  inactive.  After  purification  this 
constitutes  the  so-called  terebene.  As  a working  formula  Hirsch  proposes  the  following 
method  : Mix  1000  parts  of  oil  of  turpentine  with  25  parts  of  sulphuric  acid  in  one  por- 
tion, and  agitate  thoroughly.  When  the  heat  generated  has  moderated  to  70°  C.,  add  the 
same  quantity  of  acid  as  before,  and  repeat  this  a number  of  times,  taking  care  that  the 
temperature  does  not  rise  too  high.  Shake  the  mixture  at  intervals  for  a short  time,  and 
put  it  aside  for  twenty-four  hours.  Remove  the  oil  and  wash  it  with  solution  of  soda  to 
remove  all  trace  of  acidity,  and  distil  the  oil  in  a brisk  current  of  steam.  The  distillate 
thus  obtained  should  be  optically  inactive,  and  if  such  is  not  the  case  the  product  should 
again  be  treated  with  sulphuric  acid  in  the  proportion  of  5 to  100,  the  further  procedure 
being  as  mentioned  above.  The  inactive  liquid  finally  obtained  is  a mixture  of  terebene 
with  various  hydrocarbons,  from  which  terebene  is  obtained  pure  by  fractional  distillation, 
the  portion  boiling  above  160°  C.  (320°  F.)  being  rejected.  According  to  Riban,  it  can 
be  further  purified  by  distilling  over  metallic  sodium. 


1584 


TER  ESIN  TIIIN A . — TEREBINTHINA  CANADENSIS. 


Properties. — Hirsch  states  that  pure  terebene  is  crystalline,  while  Riban  describes 
bis  terebene  as  a liquid  having  the  boiling-point  at  155°-156°  C.  (311°-312.8°  F.).  For 
medicinal  use  it  is  not  necessarjqthat  this  body  be  absolutely  pure,  and  further  the  Phar- 
macopoeia only  demands  that  the  portion  boiling  above  160°  C.  be  absent,  as  it  gives  the 
boiling-point  156°  to  150°  C.  (312°  to  320°  F.).  The  Pharmacopoeia  describes  terebene 
as  a colorless  or  slightly  yellowish  thin  liquid,  with  a rather  agreeable  thyme-like  odor 
and  an  aromatic  somewhat  terebinthinate  taste.  At  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  its  spec.  grav.  is 
0.862,  corresponding  with  the  specific  gravity  found  by  Riban.  Slightly  soluble  in  water, 
it  dissolves,  however,  in  an  equal  volume  of  alcohol,  glacial  acetic  acid,  or  carbon  disul- 
phide. On  exposure  to  air  terebene  becomes  resinified  and  acquires  an  acid  reaction. 
“ In  its  chemical  properties  it  resembles  oil  of  turpentine.  Terebene  should  possess  its 
characteristic  agreeable  odor,  should  not  redden  moist  blue  litmus-paper  (absence  of 
acids),  and  should  not  have  more  than  a very  slight  action  on  polarized  light  (limit  of 
unaltered  oil  of  turpentine).  When  evaporated,  it  should  not  leave  more  than  a very 
slight  residue  (absence  of  more  than  traces  of  resinous  matters).” — U.  S.  IP  Wyatt 
(1892)  gives  the  following  test  for  the  freshness  of  terebene : 15  minims  of  terebene  are 
by  means  of  a pipette  brought  below  the  surface  of  an  ounce  of  the  following  mixture : 
potassium  iodide  20  gr.,  compound  tragacanth  powder  60  gr.,  boiling  water  to  make  8 
oz.  ; allow  to  cool  before  using.  The  test  should  be  made  in  a stoppered  bottle  to  allow 
shaking.  Old  terebene  will  color  the  liquid  blue  within  one  hour,  while  good  terebene 
will  cause  no  change  in  twelve  hours’  time. 

Action  and  Uses. — Terebene  has  been  employed  with  striking  success  as  a substi- 
tute for  carbolic  acid  in  the  antiseptic  dressing  of  wounds , ulcers , burns , etc.  It  thoroughly 
deodorizes  the  secretions  and  protects  the  surface  to  which  it  is  applied  from  the  contact 
of  the  air.  It  is  supposed,  like  carbolic  acid,  to  destroy  morbid  germs,  since  it  deprives 
vaccine  virus  of  its  activity.  It  has  been  applied  pure,  and  also  in  the  proportion  of  1 
part  to  6 of  olive  oil.  Internally  it  has  been  used,  like  other  terebinthinates,  in  the  treat- 
ment of  bronchitis  and  various  mucous  profluvia.  The  dose  is  stated  to  be  from  5 to  20 
drops  three  times  a day. 

TEREBXNTHXNA,  77.  8.,  B.  G.—' Turpentine. 

Thus  americanum , Br.  ; Terebinthina  communis. — Crude  turpentine,  E.  ; Terebinthine 
commune , T.  de  Bordeaux , Fr.  Cod. ; Gemeiner  Terpentin , G. ; Trementina  commune , Sp. 

The  concrete  (semi-fluid,  P.  Gi)  oleoresin  obtained  from  Pinus  palustris,  Miller , and 
other  species  of  Pinus.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 256-259. 

TEREBINTHINA  CANADENSIS,  77.  S.,  Br.— Canada  Turpentine. 

Balsamum  canadense. — Canada  balsam , Balsam  of  fir , E. ; Terebinthine  du  Canada , 
Baume  de  Canada , Fr. ; Canadischer  Terpentin , G. ; Trementina  de  Canada , Sp. 

The  liquid  oleoresin  obtained  from  Abies  (Pinus,  Linne , s.  Picea,  Loud ) balsamea, 
Miller.  Michaux,  N.  Amer.Sylva , iii.  t.  150  ; Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 263. 

Nat.  Ord. — Coniferse. 

Origin. — The  different  species  of  pine  and  fir  form  resin-ducts  in  the  bark  or  wood, 
in  which  liquid  oleoresins  secrete.  Most  of  these  oleoresins  exude  to  some  extent 
spontaneously,  but  the  various  turpentines  of  commerce  are  obtained  by  wounding  the 
trees.  Many  species  secrete  the  oleoresin  in  such  small  quantities  that  it  is  not  collected. 
The  turpentines  recognized  in  the  U.  S.  and  British  Pharmacopoeias  are  furnished  by  the 
following  species : 

Pinus  australis,  Michaux , s.  P.  palustris,  Miller.  This  is  the  broom  pine  or  swamp 
pine  of  the  United  States,  where  it  is  very  abundant  from  Southern  Virginia  to  Florida, 
not  extending  more  than  about  100  miles  from  the  coast.  Its  leaves  are  25-38  Cm.  (10 
to  15  inches)  long,  crowded  near  the  ends  of  the  branches,  and  in  tufts  of  threes,  sur- 
rounded by  long,  ragged  sheaths.  The  cones  are  nearly  cylindrical,  about  as  long  as  the 
leaves,  and  have  the  scales  furnished  with  a short  spine.  This  species  yields  nearly  all 
the  turpentine  and  rosin  in  the  United  States. 

Pinus  Tasda,  Linne , grows  in  barren,  sandy  soil  near  the  coast  from  Virginia  to 
Florida,  and  is  known  as  loblolly  or  old-field  pine.  The  leaves  are  20-25  Cm.  (8  or  10 
inches)  long,  in  fascicles  of  threes,  and  surrounded  by  elongated,  subentire  sheaths.  The 
cones  are  ovate-oblong,  about  one-half  the  size  of  the  leaves,  and  have  the  scales  tipped 
with  a stout  indexed  spine. 


TEREBIN  THIN  A CA  NA  DEXSIS. 


1585 


Abies  balsamea,  Marshall , is  the  balsam  fir  or  balm-of- Gilead  fir  of  Canada  and  the 
Northern  United  States.  It  attains  a height  of  about  15  M.  (50  feet),  has  numerous 
solitary  leaves,  which  are  about  2 Cm.  (-J  inch)  long,  linear,  flat,  obtuse,  and  glaucous- 
silvery  beneath,  and  produces  cylindrical  bluish  cones  7-10  Cm.  (3  or  4 inches)  long,  and 
with  scales  tipped  bv  a short  spine. 

Abies  Fraseri,  Pursh,  resembles  the  last  species,  but  has  the  cones  only  about  5 Cm. 
(2  inches)  in  length,  and  the  upper  part  of  their  sharp-pointed  scales  much  projecting  and 
recurved.  It  grows  from  New  England  to  North  Carolina,  principally  in  the  mountains, 
and  may  be  used  for  collecting  balsam  of  fir. 

Collection. — Common  Turpentine.  In  the  United  States  turpentine  is  chiefly 
obtained  in  North  Carolina,. and  more  recently  it  has  been  procured  from  South  Carolina 
and  Georgia.  During  the  autumn  and  winter  the  pine  trees  are  boxed , one  to  four  excava- 
tions being  made,  by  means  of  an  axe,  through  the  bark  into  the  sapwood,  commencing 
about  15-20  Cm.  (6  or  8 inches)  above  the  roots.  The  bottom  of  these  boxes  is  about  12 
Cm.  (5  inches)  below  the  lower  and  20-25  Cm.  (8  or  10  inches)  below  the  upper  lip,  and 
their  capacity  varies  from  4 to  8 pints.  A few  days  after  the  boxes  have  been  cut  the  bark 
is  removed  above  the  box  to  the  height  of  about  3 feet,  and  some  of  the  wood  is  scraped 
off*  or  hacked , the  hacks  being  made  in  the  shape  of  the  letter  L.  The  oleoresin  or  crude 
turpentine  begins  to  flow  about  the  middle  of  March,  runs  best  during  July  and  August, 
and  slackens  again  in  September  and  October.  The  boxes  are  from  time  to  time  emptied 
by  means  of  a peculiarly-constructed  spoon  or  ladle,  called  turpentine-dipper,  and  the 
turpentine  is  at  once  transferred  into  rudely-constructed  barrels,  and  usually  used  for  dis- 
tilling the  oil.  The  trees  are  slightly  scraped  every  eight  or  ten  days,  and  the  scraping 
or  hacking  is  continued  until  finally  ladders  have  to  be  employed.  The  flow  of  the  first 
year  is  the  best,  called  virgin  dip , and  yields  about  6 gallons  of  oil  per  barrel  and  the 
so-called  “ window-glass  rosin.”  Yellow  dip  is  the  exudation  of  the  second  and  subsequent 
years,  yields  about  4 gallons  of  oil  per  barrel,  and  furnishes  the  medium  grades  of  rosin. 
The  turpentine  which  hardens  upon  the  tree  is  termed  scrapings , yields  about  2 gallons  of 
oil  per  barrel,  and  leaves  a very  dark-colored  nearly  black  rosin.  (See  I.  Zacharias,  Amer. 
Jour.  Phar.,  1877,  543,  and  Dr.  T.  F.  Wood,  New  Remedies , 1880,  289.) 

Canada  Turpentine  is  largely  collected  in  the  province  of  Quebec,  Canada,  the  bal- 
sam-gatherers, with  their  whole  families,  encamping  in  the  woods  for  two  months  each 
year.  The  turpentine  is  secreted  in  vesicles  formed  in  the  bark,  each  of 
which  requires  to  be  pierced  by  the  sharp -pointed  iron  tube  attached  to  a 
can,  when  the  balsam  flows  into  the  vessel.  The  average  yield  of  each  tree 
is  about  8 ounces,  and  a man  with  the  aid  of  two  children  may  gather 
about  1 gallon  during  the  day.  The  trees  require  two  or  three  years’  rest 
before  they  are  tapped  again,  and  the  yield  is  then  always  less  than  the  first 
time.  The  largest  crop  ever  gathered  in  the  Laurentine  Mountains  of 
Quebec  in  one  year  was  5000  gallons.  (See  Wm.  Saunders,  Proceedings 
Amer.  Phar.  Assoc.,  1877,  p.  337.) 

Description. — Turpentine  is  a yellowish  or  brownish-yellow,  viscid  liquid,  which, 
when  it  exudes,  is  transparent,  but  soon  becomes  opaque  from  a crystalline  deposit,  is 
rendered  thinner  and  clear  by  a moderate  heat,  and  has  an  agreeable  terebinthinate  odor 
and  a pungent,  bitterish,  and  acrid  taste.  In  this  condition  turpentine  is  recognized  by  the 
pharmacopoeias  of  continental  Europe,  but  in  the  United  States  and  in  Great  Britain  the 
oleoresin  which  has  concreted  on  the  trees  is  official,  and  is  generally  kept  under  the 
name  of  white  turpentine , and  in  England  is  known  as  common  frankincense.  It  is  identi- 
cal with  the  granular  sediment  deposited  from  liquid  turpentine,  and  is  found  in  irregular 
yellowish-white,  more  or  less  tough  masses,  which  contain  fragments  of  bark  and  wood, 
are  brittle  in  the  cold,  breaking  with  a crummy  fracture,  and  are  more  tenacious,  or  even 
semi-liquid,  in  warm  weather.  It  contains  from  12  to  10  per  cent,  of  volatile  oil,  on  the 
loss  of  which  by  exposure  it  becomes  firm  and  friable. 

Canada  Turpentine  is  a yellowish  or  faintly  greenish,  perfectly  transparent,  and 
occasionally  somewhat  fluorescent,  viscid  liquid,  having  a similar  but  more  agreeable  odor 
and  taste  than  the  preceding.  On  exposure  it  acquires  a slightly  darker  tint  and  dries  into 
a transparent,  pale-yellow  mass.  It  is  completely  soluble  in  chloroform,  benzene,  ether, 
and  warm  amylic  alcohol,  but  incompletely  in  carbon  disulphide,  glacial  acetic  acid,  ace- 
tone, and  absolute  alcohol  (Pharmacogr apkia). 

Substitutions. — Common  turpentine  is  not  liable  to  adulterations,  but  a fictitious 
Canada  turpentine  has  occasionally  been  sold  under  the  name  of  Oregon  balsam  of  fir , 
which  was  made  by  dissolving  rosin  in  oil  of  turpentine  and  flavoring  the  solution  by  the 
100 


Fig.  306. 


Instrument  for 
collecting  bal- 
sam of  fir. 


1586 


TEREBINTIIINA  CANADENSIS. 


addition  of  a little  oil  of  wormwood.  A liquid  pale-yellow  turpentine  may  be  procured 
by  puncturing  the  vesicle  of  the  bark  of  Abies  (Pinus,  Douglas ) Menziesii,  Lindley , the 
balsam  pine  of  the  Pacific  coast.  The  sample  in  our  possession  slowly  deposited  white 
granular  matter,  and  became  rather  opaque  and  solid. 

Other  Turpentines. — European  Turpentine  closely  resembles  American  tur- 
pentine, and  is  obtained  in  Russia  from  Pinus  sylvestris,  Linne ; in  Germany,  from  the 
same  species  and  from  P.  rotundata,  Link ; in  Austria,  from  P.  Laricio,  Poiret ; and  in 
South-western  Europe,  from  P.  Pinaster,  Solander , s.  P.  maritima,  Poiret  (Bentley  and 
Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 256,  257).  The  turpentine  is  secreted  in  the  sap-wood,  and  is 
obtained  in  a manner  similar  to  that  in  which  the  American  turpentine  is  procured. 
The  concrete  French  or  Bordeaux  turpentine  is  known  in  European  commerce  as  gallipot , 
and  resembles  white  turpentine.  In  Mexico  turpentine  is  procured  from  Pinus  Teocotl, 
Schlechtendal. 

Strassburg  Turpentine,  Terebinthina  argentoratensis  (Terebinthine  d’Alsace,  T.  de 
Vosges,  T.  de  Strasbourg,  Fr.  Cod. ; Trementina  de  abeto,  Bp.),  is  procured,  like  Canada 
balsam,  which  it  resembles,  by  puncturing  the  vesicles  of  the  bark  of  Abies  (Pinus, 
Lamarck ) pectinata,  De  Candolle,  s.  Pinus  Picea,  Linne,  P.  Abies,  Duroi,  Abies  alba, 
Miller,  A.  excelsa,  Lmk  (Silver  fir,  E. ; Sapin,  Fr. ; Weisstanne,  Edeltanne,  G.  ; Bent- 
ley and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  262).  It  is  collected  in  the  Vosges,  and  has  an  agreeable 
odor,  somewhat  resembling  that  of  lemon. 

Venice  Turpentine,  Terebinthina  laricini,  s.  laricis,  s.  veneta  (Terebenthine  de  Venise, 
Fr.  Cod. ; Trementina  de  Venecia,  Sp.),  is  procured  in  Tyrol  and  Switzerland  from  Larix 
europaea,  De  Candolle  (L.  decidua,  Miller,  Pinus  Larix,  Linne ; Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med. 
Plants , 260).  (See  Laricis  Cortex.)  The  oleoresin  is  secreted  in  the  heart-wood,  and 
is  obtained  by  boring  a hole  into  the  trunk  to  the  centre  and  dipping  tne  liquid  out  as  it 
accumulates.  It  is  a nearly  transparent  or  slightly  opaque  and  somewhat  fluorescent 
thick  liquid,  of  a terebinthinate  odor,  a bitter  and  aromatic  taste,  and  a yellowish  or 
greenish-yellow  color.  It  is  freely  soluble  in  alcohol,  amyl  alcohol,  acetone,  and  glacial 
acetic  acid,  and  does  not  become  hard  when  mixed  with  magnesia.  The  article  usually 
sold  here  under  this  name  is  an  artificial  product.  59,366  pounds  of  Venice  turpentine 
were  imported  in  1878 ; the  average  is  about  48,000  pounds. 

Hun  garian  Turpentine,  Balsamum  hungaricum,  exudes  from  Pinus  Pumilio,  Hsenke , 
after  cutting  off  the  tops  of  the  branches  in  the  spring.  It  is  thin,  transparent,  yellowish, 
and  has  an  aromatic  odor  and  warm  taste. 

Constituents. — All  turpentines  consist  of  a volatile  oil  having  the  composition 
C10II16  (see  Oleum  Terebinthina)  and  of  resin,  which  is  left  behind  on  distilling  the 
oil,  and  then  constitutes  rosin.  (See  Resina.)  The  transparent  turpentines,  according  to 
Maly,  are  solutions  of  abietic  anhydride  in  the  volatile  oil,  and  on  exposure  to  a moist 
atmosphere  gradually  become  turbid  and  opaque  from  the  crystallization  of  abietic  acid. 
But  the  resin  contained  in  those  turpentines  which  do  not  become  opaque  on  exposure 
must  necessarily  be  different.  Hot  water  agitated  with  turpentine  acquires  an  acid 
reaction  from  the  presence  of  formic,  and  probably  also  of  succinic,  acid,  and  the  alcoholic 
solution  of  turpentine  has  a strong  acid  reaction. 

Other  Products  of  Pines. — Turiones  (Gemma)  Pini. — Pine-shoots,  E. ; Bourgeons  de  pin 
(sapin),  Fr. ; Fichtensprossen,  G. — The  young  shoots  of  P.  sylvestris,  collected  when  about  5 
Cm.  (2  inches)  long,  are  glutinous  from  an  oleoresinous  exudation,  and  have  an  agreeable  tere- 
binthinate odor  and  a bitter,  resinous,  and  rather  acrid  taste. 

Oleum  pini  foliorum. — Pine-leaf  oil,  Fir-wool  oil,  E. ; Essence  de  feuilles  de  pin,  Fr. ; Kiefer- 
nadelol,  Waldwollol,  G. — The  leaves  of  the  different  species  of  pine  by  pounding  are  converted 
into  a fibrous  substance  known  as  Fichtenwolle  (fir-wool),  and  when  distilled  with  water  yield  a 
volatile  oil  which  differs  from  the  volatile  oil  obtained  from  the  resin  of  the  same  species.  It  is 
of  a green-yellow  color,  is  limpid,  has  an  agreeable  terebinthinate  and  somewhat  lavender-like 
odor,  and  is  soluble  in  about  seven  times  its  volume  of  alcohol  sp.  gr.  0.838.  The  volatile  oil  is 
recognized  as  Oleum  Pini  sylvestris,  Br. 

Oleum  templinum  is  distilled  from  the  shoots  of  Pinus  Pumilio,  and  is  known  in  Germany  as 
Krummholzol  and  Latschenol.  It  is  colorless  or  yellowish-green,  and  of  an  agreeable  somewhat 
terebinthinate  odor.  The  volatile  oils  of  Pinus  sabiniana,  Douglas,  and  of  other  species  of  pine 
indigenous  to  California  resemble  these  products. 

Allied  Oleoresins. — Terebinthina  Ciiia,  s.  Cypria,  Chian  turpentine , is  the  turpentine  of 
ancient  authors.  It  is  obtained  from  incisions  made  in  the  bark  of  Pistacia  Terebinthus,  Linn 
(nat.  ord.  Anacardiaceae ; Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  69).  This  species  is  a small  tree 
found  in  the  basin  of  the  Mediterranean  and  eastward  in  Asia.  The  oleoresin  is  greenish-yellow 
or  brownish,  transparent,  has  a terebinthinate  and  somewhat  fennel-like  odor  and  a mild  bitterish 
taste,  and  hardens  to  a transparent  resin. 


TERPINI  HYDRAS. 


1587 


Balsamum  gileadense  (see  p.  1069). 

Caranna  is  a soft  oleoresin  of  a greenish-brown  or  brownish-green  color  coming  from  Central 
and  South  America,  and  obtained  from  Icica  Caranna,  Kunth , and  other  trees  of  the  nat.  ord. 
Burseracese.  It  has  an  agreeable  balsamic  odor  and  a bitterish  taste. 

Tacamahaca  is  referred  by  the  French  Codex  to  Icica  heptapliylla,  Aublet , but  in  different  sec- 
tions of  tropical  America  appears  to  be  also  produced  from  1.  (Postium)  Tacamahaca,  Kunth , 
Bursera  (Elaphium,  Jacquin ) tomentosa,  Triana , and  other  trees.  It  is  brown  or  yellowish, 
translucent,  internally  glossy,  bitter,  and  somewhat  aromatic,  particularly  on  burning.  The 
exudations  of  Calophyllum  Tacamahaca,  Willdenow , and  Cal.  inophyllum,  Linn 6 (nat.  ord.  Gut- 
tiferae),  indigenous  to  India  and  the  islands  of  the  Indian  Ocean,  have  been  used  under  the  same 
name.  Their  odor  bears  a resemblance  to  lavender  and  fenugreek.  The  seeds  of  the  last-named 
species  contain  from  50  to  60  per  cent,  of  fixed  oil,  known  in  Indian  commerce  as  bitter  oil  or 
U'eandee ; it  is  butyraceous,  green,  aromatic,  and  is  in  great  repute  for  rheumatic  complaints. 

Anime.  South  American  anime  is  probably  derived  from  some  species  of  the  nat.  ord.  Burse- 
raceae,  though  it  has  been  referred  to  Hymenaea  Courbaril,  Linne  (nat.  ord.  Leguminosae).  It  is 
in  yellowish-white  or  brownish,  rather  opaque  pieces,  which  soften  between  the  teeth  and  have 
an  odor  resembling  that  of  olibanum.  East  Indian  anime  is  reddish  and  yellowish,  friable,  of  a 
waxy  lustre,  and  has  a somewhat  fennel-like  odor. 

Pharmaceutical  Products. — Tinctura  pini  composita. — Compound  tincture  of  pine-shoots, 

E.  ; Teinture  de  sapin  composee,  Fr. ; Ilolztinktur,  G. — Macerate  for  eight  days  young  pine-shoots 
3 parts,  guaiac-wood  2 parts,  sassafras-root  and  juniper-berries,  each  1 part,  in  alcohol  (sp.  gr. 
0.892)  36  parts  ; express  and  filter. — P.  G.  1872. 

Syrup  of  Pine-Shoots,  E. ; Sirop  de  bourgeons  de  pin,  Fr. — Macerate  for  twelve  hours  100 
parts  of  young  pine-shoots  with  an  equal  weight  of  alcohol ; add  1000  parts  of  hot  water,  digest 
for  six  hours,  express,  filter,  and  dissolve  180  parts  of  sugar  in  every  100  parts  of  the  filtrate. — 

F.  Cod. 

Uses. — Turpentine  is  seldom  or  never  used  in  medicine,  as  its  virtues  depend  entirely 
upon  its  volatile  oil  (see  Ol.  Terebinthinve),  which  is  separately  employed.  In  ancient 
times  it  was  prescribed  chiefly  as  a stimulant  in  amenorrhoea , as  a diuretic,  as  a remedy 
for  catarrhal  affections  of  the  urino-genital  organs  and  of  the  lungs , and  in  ulceration  of 
the  bowels , haemorrhoids,  and  rheumatism.  Externally,  it  was  applied  in  the  treatment  of 
itch  and  of  numerous  chronic  diseases  of  the  skin , and  its  vapor,  at  a high  temperature,  as 
a bath  in  chronic  rheumatism.  The  dose  of  turpentine  may  be  stated  at  from  Gm.  1.30-4 
(20  to  60  grains). 

Under  the  name  of  Canada  balsam,  balsam  of  fir,  and  even  under  the  deceptive  title  of 
balm  of  Gilead,  Canada  turpentine  has  been  used,  especially  in  the  treatment  of  chronic 
bronchitis , as  well  as  for  the  purposes  to  which  other  turpentines  are  applied.  It  is  des- 
titute of  the  special  qualities  of  the  true  balsams,  since  it  does  not  contain  benzoic  acid. 

The  resin  of  tacamahaca  was  formerly  used  in  fumigations  for  rheumatism  and  in 
plasters  for  that  affection,  sprains , and  other  local  disorders  requiring  stimulation  or 
mechanical  support.  It  was  also  given  internally,  associated  with  amber,  cloves,  nut- 
meg, etc.  Pine-shoots  and  pine-leaf  oils  are  popular  remedies  for  the  same  class  of 
affections.  The  former  are  sometimes  used  in  hot  baths. 

Chian  Turpentine  was  introduced  as  a remedy  for  uterine  cancer  in  1880  by  Prof. 
Clay  of  Birmingham,  Eng.  It  was  given  internally,  and  in  a maximum  dose  of  25  grains. 
Its  effects  were  thus  described  : It  appears  to  act  upon  the  periphery  of  the  growth 

with  great  vigor,  causing  the  speedy  disappearance  of  what  is  usually  termed  the  cancer- 


o # o ) O 1 */  1 ± «/ 

ous  infiltration It  appears  to  dissolve  the  cancer-cells,  ....  and  the  firmer 

structures  gradually  gain  a comparatively  normal  condition It  is  a most  efficient 


anodyne”  ( Lancet , Mar.  27  and  Oct.  2,  1880).  On  the  other. hand,  I)r.  Henry  Morris 
( Lancet , Dec.  4,  1880)  declared  that  the  drug  did  not  exercise  a favorable  influence  over 
a single  symptom  of  cancer,  and  that  as  a cure  it  was  utterly  valueless.  To  the  latter 
opinion  all  experts  in  the  matter  have  rallied,  although,  in  1887,  Mr.  Clay  renewed  his 
original  claims  in  favor  of  the  medicine. 

Oleum  templinum  has  been  used,  like  other  terebinthinates,  in  chronic  affections  of  the 
mucous  membranes ; and  in  like  manner  the  wood  and  shoots  of  P.  Pumilio  have  been 
employed  to  impregnate  baths  and  the  air  breathed  by  patients  affected  with  pulmonary 
complaints.  The  oil  is  credited  with  having  expelled  a tape-worm  ( Therap . Gaz.,  ix.  287). 

TERPINI  HYDRAS,  U.  S.— Terpin  Hydrate. 

Terpinum  hydratum , P.  G. — Terpinhydrat , G. 

Formula  C10H18(OH)2  -f  H20.  Molecular  weight  189.59. 

The  hydrate  of  the  diatomic  alcohol  terpin.  Terpin  hydrate  should  be  kept  in  well- 
stoppered  bottles. — U S. 


1588 


TEUCRIUM. 


Preparation. — The  formation  of  terpin  hydrate  depends  on  the  oxidation  of  tur7 
pentine  with  nitric  acid  in  the  presence  of  ethyl  or  methyl  alcohol.  It  is  formed  also  if 
oil  of  turpentine  remains  in  contact  with  water  for  a long  time.  Wriggers  (1846) 
obtained  it  by  mixing  8 parts  of  oil  of  turpentine,  2 parts  of  nitric  acid  of  spec.  grav. 
1.25-1.30,  and  1 part  of  alcohol  (80  per  cent.),  and  permitting  it  to  stand  for  some  time. 
The  process  of  Deville  (1849)  is  only  a slight  modification  of  the  above,  while  in  the 
method  of  Tilden  (1878)  methyl  alcohol  is  substituted  for  the  ethyl  alcohol.  The  latter 
method  is,  in  outline,  as  follows : A mixture  of  2\  volumes  of  oil  of  turpentine,  and  1 
volume  each  of  methyl  alcohol  and  nitric  acid  (spec.  grav.  1.400)  is  allowed  to  stand  in 
a flask  for  two  days,  and  then  transferred  to  a dish,  and  a small  quantity  of  methyl 
alcohol  added  every  second  day.  The  crystals  which  form  in  each  process  are  separated 
and  purified  by  crystallizing  from  alcohol.  The  yield  of  terpin  hydrate  depends  on  the 
nature  of  the  oil  of  turpentine,  the  American  and  French  oils  yielding  it  very  readily,  while 
the  terpenes  of  boiling-point  176°  C.  (348.8°  F.)  yield  none. 

Properties. — Terpin  hydrate  forms  colorless,  lustrous,  rhombic  prisms,  nearly  odor- 
less, and  having  a slightly  aromatic  and  somewhat  bitter  taste,  permanent  in  the  air, 
soluble,  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  in  about  250  parts  of  water  and  in  10  parts  of  alcohol,  in 
32  parts  of  boiling  water  and  in  2 parts  of  boiling  alcohol ; also  soluble  in  about  100 
parts  of  ether,  200  parts  of  chloroform,  or  1 part  of  boiling  glacial  acetic  acid.  Terpin 
hydrate  melts  at  116°  to  117°  C.  (240.8°  to  242.6°  F.),  with  the  loss  of  water,  and,  at 
the  temperature  of  the  water-bath  sublimes  in  fine  needles.  When  heated  in  a flask 
adapted  for  distillation  it  first  loses  water.  At  258°  C.  (496.4°  F.)  anhydrous  terpin 
distils  over  without  decomposition,  soon  solidifying  to  a crystalline,  hygroscopic  mass, 
which  melts  at  102°  to  105°  C.  (215.6°  to  221°  F.)  When  strongly  heated  on  platinum- 
foil  it  burns  with  a bright,  smoky  flame,  leaving  no  residue.  Terpin  hydrate  is  dissolved 
by  sulphuric  acid  with  an  orange-yellow  color.  If  to  its  hot,  aqueous  solution  a few 
drops  of  sulphuric  acid  be  added,  the  liquid  becomes  turbid  and  develops  a strongly 
aromatic  odor.  Terpin  hydrate  should  not  have  the  odor  of  turpentine,  and  its  hot, 
aqueous  solution  should  not  redden  blue  litmus-paper  (absence  of  adhering  acid). — • 

U.  S.,  P.  G. 

Action  and  Uses. — Terpine,  or  hydrated  oil  of  turpentine,  was  announced  in  1883 
by  Lepine  as  a remedy  in  chronic  nephritis  through  its  direct  action  upon  the  kidneys,  and 
in  chronic  bronchitis  through  a similar  action  upon  the  bronchia  {Bull,  de  Therap .,  cviii.  33). 
The  latter  statement  has  been  amply  confirmed,  among  others,  by  Murrell  {Edinb.  Med. 
Jour.,  xxxi.  684)  and  Cammann  {Med.  Record , xxxii.  476),  proving  that  the  action  of  the 
medicine  resembles  that  of  balsams,  especially  upon  the  bronchial  and  urinary  mucous 
membranes.  It  gives  a characteristic  odor  to  the  urine.  If  the  dose  be  excessive  or  if  the 
medicine  be  too  long  continued,  it  may  occasion  strangury  {Brit.  Med.  Jour.,  Jan.  29,  1887), 
just  as  Lepine,  in  his  experiments  upon  dogs,  found  it  to  cause  albuminuria,  and  even 
bloody  urine.  It  is  true  that  this  effect  need  not  occur  if  the  medicine  is  cautiously 
employed.  According  to  Penzoldt  {Lehrbuch  d.  Min.  Arzneibehandlung , 1889,  p.  148),  it  is 
of  peculiar  value  in  chronic  affections  of  the  heart  and  kidneys,  especially  in  chronic  nephri- 
tis and  degeneration  of  the  heart-muscle  with  albuminuria  and  extensive  oedema : and  yet 
even  under  the  prescribed  conditions  it  sometimes  fails.  In  such  cases  caution  must  be 
observed  lest  the  kidneys  become  congested.  Lazarus  claims  for  the  medicine  a remark- 
able efficacy  in  whooping  cough , at  least  as  a palliative  {Ther.  Monatsh.,  iv.  118).  It  has 
also  been  recommended  in  hay  fever  and  for  the  prevention  and  expulsion  of  flatus. 
Terpine  may  be  given  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.12-0.18  (gr.  ij-iij)  three  times  a day,  in  lozenges 
or  in  emulsion.  Bayland  recommends  the  following  formula : R.  Terpine  hydrate,  grs. 
xxiv ; Glycerin,  q.  s.  ut  fit  solut. ; Syrup  of  lactucarium,  ad  f^j. — M.  S.  A teaspoonful 
every  three  hours  ( Record , xxxii.  420). 

Terpinol  is  said  to  be  of  little  value  in  disorders  of  the  urinary  tract,  but  very  efficient 
in  diseases  of  the  respiratory  tubes.  It  is  largely  eliminated  through  the  lungs,  and  but 
little  through  the  kidneys.  It  may  be  given  in  capsules,  each  containing  2 grains, 
to  the  number  of  from  six  to  twelve  a day,  or  in  pills  made  with  sodium  benzoate  and 
sugar. 

TEUCRIUM. — Germander. 

Herba  mari  veri. — Herb  mastich,  Cat  thyme,  E.  ; Germandree  maritime,  Fr. ; Gamander, 
Katzengamander , Amberkraut , G. ; Maro  cortesso,  Sp. 

Teucrium  Marum,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord, — Labiatse,  Ajugoidese. 


THA  JjIJNJE  SULPHAS . 


1589 


Description. — Of  the  numerous  species  of*  the  genus  Teucrium  which  are  occasion- 
ally employed  in  medicine,  nearly  all  are  indigenous  to  Europe.  The  genus  is  character- 
ized by  its  flowers,  which  have  the  lower  lip  elongated  and  the  upper  lip  short  and  deeply 
divided,  the  four  stamens  projecting  from  the  cleft.  All  are  aromatic  and  more  or  less 
bitter.  The  above-named  species  is  shrubby,  about  30  Cm.  (10  inches)  high,  and  much 
branched.  The  leaves  are  about  8 Mm.  (1  inch)  long,  petiolate,  oval  or  lance-ovate,  with 
the  margin  entire  and  revolute,  and  whitish  tomentose  beneath.  The  rose-red  flowers  are 
single  in  the  axils  of  the  bracts,  forming  a one-sided,  spike-like  raceme.  The  odor  is 
strongly  camphoraceous,  the  taste  pungent  and  bitter. 

Allied  Plants. — Te  ucrium  canadense,  Limit. — Woodsage,  E. — It  is  downy  or  hairy,  of  a 
grayish-green  color,  and  about  60  Cm.  (2  feet)  high.  The  leaves  are  about  5 Cm.  (2  inches)  long, 
short-stalked,  lance-ovate,  rounded  at  the  base  and  serrate  on  the  margin.  The  pale-purple 
floAvers  are  in  whorls  of  about  six,  and  form  a terminal  spike. 

T.  Scordium,  Linnt ; Herba  scordii. — Water  germander,  E. — Germandr6e  aquatique,  Fr. ; 
Lachenknoblauch,  G. ; Escordio,  Sp. — It  is  about  30  Cm.  (12  inches)  high,  has  sessile,  lance- 
oblong,  serrate,  and  soft  hairy  leaves  about  38  Mm.  (1£  inches)  long,  and  rose-colored  flowers  in 
whorls  of  two  to  four.  In  the  fresh  state  it  has  an  alliaceous  odor. 

T.  Polium,  Linnt. — Polymountain,  E. ; Polium,  Fr. ; Bergpoley,  G. ; Zamarilla,  Sp. — The 
leaves  are  12  Mm.  (J  inch)  long,  tomentose,  sessile,  lance-linear,  obtuse,  crenate,  and  strongly 
revolute  on  the  margin.  The  flowers  are  white.  The  allied  T.  inontanum,  Limit,  has  yellowish 
flowers. 

T.  Cham^edrys,  Limit. — Chamaedrys. — Petit-chene,  Fr.  Cod.  ; Camedrios,  Sp.— It  is  low,  suf- 
fruticose,  and  branching.  The  leaves  are  about  25  Mm.  (1  inch)  long,  petiolate,  hairy,  ovate  or 
obovate,  obtuse,  cuneate  at  base,  and  crenately  serrate.  The  flowers  are  purplish-red'. 

Ajuga  (teucrium,  Limit)  Chamadpitys,  Schreber. — Ground  pine,  E.;  Chamsepitys  ivette, 
F.  Cod.;  Giinsel,  Feldcypresse,  G. ; Pinillo  olorroso,  Sp. — A small  hairy  annual  with  axillary 
flowers,  having  the  yellow  corolla  dotted  with  purple  5 the  lower  leaves  are  lanceolate,  the  upper 
ones  three-cleft  with  linear  lobes  ; the  odor  is  rosemary-like. 

Ajuga  (Teucrium,  Linnt)  Iva,  Schreber. — French  ground  pine,  E. ; Ivette  musquee,  F.  Cod. ; 
Bisamgiinsel,  G. — It  resembles  the  preceding,  but  has  linear,  somewhat  toothed,  woolly  leaves, 
red  flowers,  and  a musk-like  odor.  This  and  the  preceding  two  species  are  official  in  the  French 
Codex. 

Ajuga  reptans  and  A.  pyramidalis,  Linnt,  are  small  perennials  with  obovate  crenate  radical 
leaves  and  blue  flowers,  are  slightly  aromatic  and  somewhat  bitter,  and  are  known  in  Europe  as 
bugle  and  mountain  bugle. 

Constituents. — These  species  owe  their  virtues  to  volatile  oil,  to  a small  quantity 
of  bitter  principle,  and  to  tannin. 

Action  and  Uses.— The  numerous  species  of  Teucrium  appear  to  possess  similar 
qualities  in  different  degrees,  and  among  them  T.  marum,  or  germander,  has  enjoyed  the 
greatest  reputation.  It  is  described  as  tonic,  stimulant,  diaphoretic,  diuretic,  and  em- 
menagogue,  and  has  been  used  in  scrofula,  chlorosis,  chronic  bronchitis,  leucorrhoea,  amenor- 
rhea, dropsy,  chronic,  gout,  etc. — in  a word,  in  various  affections  requiring  a stimulant  and 
tonic  treatment.  A snuff  made  from  its  powder  has  been  employed  to  cure  nasal  polypi. 
T.  scordium  was  formerly  used  in  the  treatment  of  chronic  simple  and  syphilitic  eruptions 
of  the  skin  and  mucous  membranes,  and,  like  some  other  aromatic  stimulants,  for  the 
relief  of  dyspeptic  ailments,  haemorrhoids,  and  pruritus  ani.  In  the  latter  affections  it  is 
applied  locally  as  well  as  given  internally.  Teucrium  is  administered  in  powder  in  the 
dose  of  Gm.  2-2.30  (gr.  xxx-xl),  or  in  an  infusion  made  with  Gm.  16-32  in  Gm.  500 
(^ss-gj  inOj)  of  water. 

THALLIN2E  SULPHAS.-Thalline  Sulphate. 

Thallinum  sulfuricum,  P.  G. — Thalline,  E.,  Fr.  ; Thallin,  Thallinsulfat,  G. 

Formula  2C9H10N(OCH3).H2SO4  + 2H,0.  Molecular  weight  459.06. 

Preparation. — Ihe  base  thalline,  which  is  the  methyl  ether  of  tetrahydro-paraoxy- 
quinoline,  and  its  salts  were  discovered  by  Skraup  in  1884,  and  is  prepared  from  para- 
quinanisol  by  treatment  with  tin  and  hydrochloric  acid.  This  last-named  compound  is  an 
oily  base,  and  is  obtained  by  heating  to  about  145°  C.  (293°  F.)  a mixture  of  par- 
amidoanisol,  paranitranisol  (or  another  nitro-compound),  glycerin,  and  sulphuric  acid.  The 
base  thalline  forms  thick  white  prisms,  which  are  freely  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  and 
benzene,  but  dissolve  sparingly  in  benzin  and  water.  The  sulphate,  which  has  become 
known  by  the  name  of  the  base,  thalline,  is  formed  by  dissolving  the  latter  in  dilute  sul- 
phuric acid  and  crystallizing  or  granulating. 

Properties.  Thalline  sulphate  is  usually  seen  in  the  form  of  a white  or  whitish 
granular  crystalline  powder,  which  is  permanent  in  the  air,  and  has  a slight  anise-like 


1590 


THALLIUM  SULPHAS. 


odor  and  a nauseous,  bitter,  saline,  and  pungent  taste,  becoming  more  agreeable  and 
aromatic  in  dilute  solutions.  Tbe  salt  is  freely  soluble  in  hot  water,  sparingly  soluble  in 
chloroform  and  in  ether,  and  requires  for  solution  7 parts  of  cold  water  and  100  parts  of 
alcohol,  the  solutions  becoming  darker  on  exposure  to  light.  A solution  of  the  salt  in 
10,000  parts  of  water  acquires  an  emerald-green  color  on  the  addition  of  a little  ferric 
chloride  or  other  oxidizing  agent,  the  color  being  not  altered  by  sulphuric  acid,  but 
changed  to  purplish,  reddish,  or  yellow  by  reducing  agents.  The  solution  of  thalline  is 
colored  deep  red  on  being  heated  with  fuming  nitric  acid ; it  is  not  affected  by  tannin  or 
mercuric  chloride,  but  yields  a yellow  precipitate  with  picric  acid,  and  alkalies  separate 
from  it  the  base  in  oily  drops,  becoming  crystalline  and  having  a coumarin-like  odor. 

Allied  Salts. — Thalline  Tartrate  closely  resembles  the  sulphate  in  appearance  and  taste,  but 
is  much  less  soluble  in  water,  requiring  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  at  least  10  parts  for  solution. 

Kairin.  This  name  was  given  to  two  compounds  prepared  synthetically  by  Fischer  in  1882, 
and  designated  more  particularly  as  kairin  A and  kairin  M.  The  former  is  the  hydrochloride 
of  oxyquinoline  ethyl  tetrahydride,  C9H10(C2H5)NO.HC1,  and  is  also  known  as  ethyl  kairin.  It 
was  the  first  substitute  for  quinine  synthetically  prepared,  and  was  obtained  from  a-oxyquinoline 
by  treatment  with  tin  and  hydrochloric  acid,  and  subsequently  with  ethyl  iodide.  It  occurs  in 
colorless,  odorless  prismatic  crystals,  soluble  in  6 parts  of  water  or  20  parts  of  alcohol.  Kairin 
M is  the  hydrochloride  of  oxyquinoline  methyl  tetrahydride,  C9H10(CH3)NO.HC1,  and  is  prepared 
like  the  preceding  compound,  except  that  methyl  iodide  is  used  in  place  of  ethyl  iodide.  When 
simply  kairin  is  mentioned  ethyl  kairin  is  always  understood. 

Kairolin  A and  Kairolin  M are  the  acid  sulphates  of  ethyl-  and  methylquinolinetetrahy- 
dride,  respectively. 

Action  and  Uses. — According  to  Brouardel  and  Loye,  thalline  deteriorates  the 
haemoglobin  of  the  blood,  converting  it  into  methaemoglobin,  and  thereby  diminishing  its 
oxidizing  power.  Huchard,  while  he  failed  to  detect  the  latter  product,  observed  a great 
reduction  in  the  oxyhaemoglobin,  in  consequence  of  which  guinea-pigs  employed  in  his 
experiments  perished  as  if  they  were  anaemiated.  He  also  found  that  thalline  was  rapidly 
eliminated  in  the  urine,  and,  indeed,  in  all  the  secretions  (Bull,  et  Mem.  de  la  Soc.  de 
Therap.,  Avril,  1885,  p.  46).  The  experiments  of  Beyer  (Amer.  Jour,  of  Med.  Sri.,  Apr., 
1886,  p.  386)  on  the  frog  and  terrapin  proved  that  “ repeated  thallinization  of  the  heart 
is  followed  by  a peculiar  shrinkage  of  the  organ,  during  which  it  presents  the  dark  color 
of  thallinized  blood  ; ” that,  as  had  already  been  shown,  “it  reduces  the  temperature  by 
diminishing  heat-production  and  increasing  heat-radiation  ; and  that  “ its  influence  upon 
the  blood-corpuscles  is  sufficient  to  condemn  it”  as  a medicine.  Ehrlich’s  experiments 
on  animals  (Centralbl.  f Med .,  v.  114)  show  that  thalline  may  produce  fatty  degenera- 
tion, gland-nercosis,  and  papillary  infarction  of  the  kidneys.  Kreis  attributed  to  it  germi- 
cide properties  ( Ther . Gaz.,  xi.  414). 

In  man,  thalline  produces  a fall  of  temperature  which  is  nearly  always  attended  with 
profuse  sweating ; it  reaches  the  minimum  in  from  one  to  three  hours,  and  recovers  its 
former  height  in  from  four  to  five  hours,  but  sometimes  more  rapidly,  and  in  that  case 
chilliness  is  experienced.  Yet  not  unusually  both  chill  and  sweat  are  wanting.  The  rise 
and  subsequent  fall  of  temperature  are  more  rapid  than  are  caused  by  antipyrine,  but  less 
so  than  kairin  occasions ; yet  it  maintains  the  maximum  longer  than  either  of  these 
preparations  (Mengazzini  ; Anseroff).  After  its  completed  action  the  temperature  is  apt 
to  rise  higher  than  at  first.  The  pulse-rate  and  force  subside  simultaneously,  even  to  the 
production  of  syncope  that  may  be  fatal.  According  to  Welt,  a watery  diarrhoea  is  fre- 
quently produced  by  thalline,  and  vomiting  in  about  7 per  cent,  of  the  cases  ( Deutsch . 
Arch.  f.  ldin.  Med,,  Dec.  3,  1885  ; Weinstein,  Centralb.  f.  Med,,  iv.  446).  The  repeated 
administration  of  medicinal  doses  now  and  then  occasions  a papular  erythema,  especially 
of  the  limbs.  Some  clinical  observations  of  Dr.  Griffith  on  the  use  of  tlialljne  point  to 
its  sometimes  causing  profuse  sweating  in  phthisis.  Twice  in  thirty-eight  cases  of  this 
disease  and  in  acute  febrile  affections  a decided  depression  of  strength  occurred,  which 
“ indicated  that  it  must  be  given  with  great  care  to  debilitated  subjects  ” {Med.  Neics , 
xlviii.  370).  Jaccoud  maintained,  but  we  believe  without  adequate  evidence,  that  the 
reduction  of  temperature  produced  by  thalline  is  limited  to  the  surface  of  the  body  ; and 
he  adds  that  this  peripheral  cooling  does  not  benefit,  but  rather  weakens  (Archives  gen., 
Dec.  1885,  p.  796).  According  to  Martin’s  experiments  (Therap.  Gaz.,  xi.  295),  it 
reduces  fever  by  increasing  heat-dissipation,  while  its  influence  on  heat-production  varies, 
even  with  the  same  dose. 

Thalline  is  unquestionably  an  antipyretic,  probably  the  most  certain  and  powerful  of 
its  class,  and  for  that  reason  calls  for  the  condemnation  which  was  pronounced  upon  it 
by  Jaksch  in  Vienna,  who  first  brought  the  preparation  into  notice.  “ Drugs,”  he  said, 


Til  A PS IA. 


1591 


“which  are  only  antipyretics  are  of  very  little  use  ” ( Times  and  Gaz.,  Dec.  1884,  p.797). 
In  this  sentence  Prof.  Nothnagel  concurred,  protesting  against  the  indiscriminate  use  of 
“ antipyretics,”  as  if  fever  were  a substantial  disease,  and  not  the  outcome  of  necessary 
chemical  and  physiological  changes  in  the  tissue-elements.  We  have  long  inculcated  the 
opinion  he  thus  expressed:  “Fever  is  not  a symptom  to  be  removed  in  every  case. 
According  to  my  conviction,  which  is  also  that  of  many  other  investigators,  it  is  a very 
beneficial  phenomenon — one  of  those  processes  of  reaction  which  one  must  look  upon  as 
compensatory.  ....  Although  we  may  succeed  in  lowering  the  temperature,  we  do  not 

shorten  the  duration  of  an  acute  fever  by  a single  day In  general,  a temperature 

that  does  not  exceed  104°  F.  does  not  injure  the  patient.”  In  relapsing  fever  the  tem- 
perature often  rises  to  105°  F.,  and  even  to  106°  F.,  without  in  the  least  disturbing  the 
mind,  and  the  patient  recovers — exhausted  indeed,  but  not  otherwise  injured.  Jaksch 
claimed  for  thalline  that  it  provoked  neither  vomiting,  cyanosis,  nor  collapse,  and  that 
only  occasionally  did  it  produce  sweating  and  rigors.  Now  that  this  judgment  is  known 
to  be  too  favorable,  we  may  all  the  more  readily  accept  his  further  conclusions,  confirmed 
by  later  observers.  He  confessed  that  the  medicine  neither  shortens  nor  radically  modi- 
fies febrile  affections,  including  intermittent  fever,  acute  articular  rheumatism,  measles, 
puerperal  septicaemia,  pneumonia,  erysipelas,  and  tuberculosis.  “ Fever,  indeed,  it  sup- 
pressed, but  all  the  rest  remained  unchanged  ” ( Wiener  med.  Wochensch.,  No.  48,  1884). 
Hallopeau  pronounced  a similar  judgment  in  the  matter  (Bull.  et.  Mem.  Soc.  de  Therap., 

1885,  p.  57).  Maragliano’s  observations  confirm  the  conclusions  already  stated.  He 
found  that  in  non-febrile  states  the  temperature  was  but  slightly  affected  by  thalline  ; 
that  in  these,  as  in  febrile  states,  it  occasioned  a decided  loss  of  heat ; that  during  its 
action  the  excretion  of  urea  and  the  elimination  of  carbonic  acid  are  diminished  ; and  that 
it  also  lessens  the  absorption  of  oxygen  by  the  blood  in  the  lungs  (Zeitschr.  f k.  Med., 

1886,  x.  462).  Minot,  like  many  others,  admitted  that  while  it  promoted  the  comfort  of 
the  patient,  it  did  not  affect  the  course  or  issue  of  the  disease  (Trans.  Assoc.  Amer.  Phys., 
ii.  77).  Weinstein,  like  others,  observed  the  collapse  produced  sometimes  by  thalline, 
and  held  it  to  be  an  unsafe  medicine  in  the  greater  number  of  febrile  diseases  (Centralb. 
f Ther .,  iv.  447).  In  one  case  it  occasioned  death  {ibid.,  p.  256).  Kohts  noticed  this 
tendency,  especially  in  children  (ibid.,  p.  402).  Without  further  examples  of  the  poi- 
sonous operation  of  thalline,  suffice  it  to  add  that  Falk  says  it  has  earned,  along  with 
kairin,  a place  among  tbe  obsolete  medicines,  and  that  Robin  pronounced  it  both  danger- 
ous and  useless  (Therap.  Monafsh.,  iv.  211). 

Thalline  salts,  the  sulphate  or  the  tartrate,  may  be  prescribed  in  doses  of  from  6m. 
0.25-0.75  (4  to  12  grains),  or  in  hourly  doses  of  about  6m.  0.03-0.05  (I  gr.).  They  may 
be  administered  in  powder,  contained  in  wafers,  or  in  solution.  They  are  said  to  act  per- 
fectly through  the  rectum.  Hypodermically,  they  do  not  produce  abscess  or  otherwise 
irritate  the  tissues. 

In  1882,  Prof.  Filehne  of  Erlangen  announced  that  the  newly-discovered  kairin  muri- 
ate reduced  the  temperature  of  fever  to  the  normal  degree  without  occasioning  any  of  the 
unpleasant  effects  of  other  antipyretics.  Other  observers  have  more  or  less  confirmed  or 
modified  these  statements.  In  1884,  v.  Halla,  reviewing  the  clinical  history  of  kairin, 
drew  conclusions  unfavorable  to  its  use  as  a medicine ; and  Dujardin-Beaumetz  in  1886 
declared  that  “ it  ought  to  be  banished  from  use  as  dangerous,  because  it  produces  its 
antithermic  effects  by  profoundly  impairing  the  vital  constituents  of  the  blood  (Les 
nouveaux  Remedes,  p.  127).  It,  moreover,  occasioned  severe  chills  and  even  epileptiform 
spasms.  Elsewhere  the  reports  concerning  this  medicine  agree,  more  or  less,  with  the 
above  in  essential  particulars  (compare  Shattuck,  Boston  Med.  and  Burg.  Jour.,  Nov. 
1883,  p.  415 ; Draper,  ibid.,  p.  417 ; Crook,  Med.  News,  xliv.  326),  and  especially  that 
the  medicine  is  an  efficient  antipyretic  ; but  none  of  them  prove  it  to  bear  the  marks  of 
a true  remedy,  curing  disease  “ cito,  tuto,  et  jucundeT 

Filehne  recommended  that  the  primary  dose  of  kairin  should  not  exceed  Gm.  0.25  (4 
or  5 grains)  ; that  it  should  be  repeated  and  increased  at  intervals  of  two  or  three  hours, 
according  to  its  influence  on  the  temperature,  to  Gm.  0.50—1  (8  or  15  grains)  ; and  that 
when  the  desired  subsidence  is  obtained  the  dose  should  be  gradually  reduced.  It  is  most 
conveniently  administered  in  wafers  or  capsules  to  avoid  its  bitter  saline  taste  and  its  acrid 
impression  on  the  fauces. 

THAPSIA.— Thapsia. 

Thapsie,  Fr.  Cod. ; Faux  fenouil , Fr. ; Thapsie , G. ; Tapsia,  Sp. 

Thapsia  garganica,  Linne. 


1592 


THE  A. 


Nat.  Ord. — Umbelliferse,  Orthospermse. 

Origin  and  Description. — This  plant  is  a perennial  herb  of  Northern  Africa  and 
Southern  Europe,  and  has  a smooth,  thick,  and  hollow  stem  ; smooth,  shining,  twice  or 
thrice-pinnate  leaves,  with  large  sheaths  and  lance-linear,  acute,  often  two-  or  three- 
lobed  leaflets ; and  pale-yellow  flowers  in  large  compound  umbels.  The  root  is  usu- 
ally employed.  It  is  about  60  Cm.  (2  feet)  long,  about  5 Cm.  (2  inches)  thick,  gradu- 
ally tapering,  somewhat  branched,  brownish-gray  externally  and  internally  whitish. 
When  fresh  it  contains  a white  acrid  juice.  It  is  nearly  inodorous  and  has  a biting, 
acrid  taste. 

The  closely-allied  Tli.  Sylphium,  Viviani , of  Northern  Africa,  is,  like  the  Narthex  Syl- 
phium,  Oersted , regarded  as  a mere  variety  of  the  preceding  plant,  which  is  by  some 
believed  to  be  identical  with  the  Sylphium  cyrenaicum  of  the  ancients. 

Constituents. — The  acrid  properties  are  due  to  a resin  which  is  neutral  and  free 
from  nitrogen,  crystallizes  in  needles,  and  is  soluble  in  hot  alcohol,  in  ether,  and  in 
carbon  disulphide.  Canzoneri  (1883)  found  in  the  resinous  extract  also  an  octoic  acid, 
C8H1602,  closely  related  to  caprylic  acid,  and  thapsic  acid , C16H30O4,  which  is  scaly, 
melts  near  124°  C.  (255°  F.),  and  is  nearly  insoluble  in  water,  benzene,  and  carbon 
disulphide. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Resina  thapsic.  Exhaust  the  bark  of  the  root  with 
alcohol  and  evaporate  to  a soft  extract. — F.  Cod. 

Thapsia  Plaster  contains  7 per  cent,  of  the  resin,  combined  with  yellow  wax,  col- 
ophony, and  turpentine. — F.  Cod. 

Action  and  Uses. — Galen,  Dioscorides,  and  the  Arabians  agree  in  describing  the 
powdered  root  and  juice  of  thapsia  as  being  irritating  to  the  skin,  and,  when  taken  inter- 
nally, as  emetic  and  purgative.  The  juice  and  ointments  and  plasters  prepared  with  it 
were  used  as  stimulants  and  counter-irritants  for  the  relief  of  rheumatic  and  other  local 
pains  and  to  lessen  dyspnoea.  About  1868  some  attempts  were  made  to  revive  its  use  in 
the  form  of  the  resin  extracted  from  the  root.  Applied  in  a plaster,  the  skin  became 
inflamed,  with  intolerable  itching,  and  a copious  vesicular  eruption  ensued.  If  the  ap- 
plication was  not  prolonged,  this  eruption  speedily  dried  up,  but  in  the  contrary  case  the 
vesicles  became  confluent,  broke,  and  exposed  an  ulcerated  and  suppurating  surface,  which 
on  healing  left  scars  resembling  those  of  small-pox.  On  delicate  skins  its  operation  was 
extremely  severe.  It  is  stated  that  the  men  employed  in  preparing  extract  of  thapsia  on 
a large  scale  were  affected  with  fever  and  swelling  of  the  hands  and  face,  and  from  time 
to  time  were  obliged  to  suspend  their  work.  A case  is  also  related  in  which  the  applica- 
tion of  a plaster  of  thapsia  resin  to  the  chest  was  followed  in  about  twelve  hours  by  severe 
strangury  and  violent  itching  about  the  genitals  and  anus.  A similar  example  has  been 
related  by  Douglass  {Med.  Record , xxxvii.  96).  In  the  Therapeutical  Society  of  Paris 
all  the  leading  members  of  that  body  condemned  thapsia  plasters  as  unnecessary,  and  as 
sometimes  dangerous  ( Bull . et  Mem.  Soc.  ther .,  Avr.  1882,  p.  101).  It  does  not  appear 
that  its  therapeutic  operation  differs  in  any  wise  from  that  of  other  counter-irritants,  such 
as  croton  oil,  euphorbium,  mezereon,  and  tartar  emetic,  but  it  may  be  added  to  the  number 
of  such  agents  for  occasional  use.  The  resin  may  be  mixed  with  diachylon  in  the  form  of 
a plaster,  or  ordinary  adhesive  plaster  may  be  coated  with  an  alcoholic  solution  of  the  resin 
and  applied  to  the  skin. 

THEA— Tea. 

The , Fr.  Cod. ; Thee , G. ; Te,  Te  de  China , Sp. 

The  leaves  of  Thea  chinensis,  Sims  (Camellia  Thea,  Link , C.  theifera,  Griffith').  Bent- 
ley and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 34. 

Nat.  Ord. — Ternstroemiaceae  (Camelliaceae). 

Origin.— Tea  is  obtained  from  a shrub  which  is  indigenous  to  China  and  probably  to 
other  parts  of  Southern  and  South-eastern  Asia,  and  has  been  cultivated  in  India,  China, 
and  Japan  from  a very  early  period.  The  varieties  produced  by  long  cultivation  were 
formerly  regarded  as  distinct  species,  and  described  as  Thea  Bohea,  T.  viridis,  T.  stricta, 
etc.  The  plant  has  been  successfully  introduced  in  several  parts  of  the  United  States. 
It  bears  white  axillary  flowers  and  roundish-triangular,  three-celled,  and  three-seeded  cap- 
sules. The  seeds  are  subglobular,  somewhat  flattened,  of  the  size  of  a cherry-stone, 
glossy-brown,  yellow  at  the  hilum,  and  have  a brittle  testa,  a short  radicle,  and  unequal 
thick  plano-convex  cotyledons. 

Preparation. — After  the  leaves  have  been  gathered  they  are  either  rapidly  dried, 
when  they  change  to  a dull-green  color  ( green  tea),  or  they  are  allowed  to  wilt,  and  are 


THE  A. 


1593 


subsequently  kept  for  some  time  in  heaps,  when  they  acquire  a dark  color  (black  tea). 
Both  varieties  are  subjected  to  various  manipulations,  such  as  rolling  upon  a table,  heat- 
ing over  a fire,  etc.,  and  are  sometimes  flavored  by  being  left  in  contact  with  the  flowers 
of  the  orange,  fragrant  olive,  jessamin,  and  others.  Hyson,  Young  Hyson,  Gunpowder, 
aud  Imperial  are  some  of  the  best-known  brands  of  green  tea,  and  Souchong,  Oolong,  and 
Pekoe  are  black  teas. 

Description. — Tea  is  met  with  in  commerce  in  the  form  of  little  cylinders  or  rolls, 
into  which  the  leaves  have  been  twisted  during  the  manipulation  of  rolling,  and  in  some 
varieties  these  leaves  have  again  been  formed 
into  balls  of  different  sizes.  Tea-leaves  after 
having  been  softened  in  water  and  unfolded  are 
found  to  be  from  25-75  Mm.  (1  to  3 inches) 
long,  varying  between  oblong-ovate  and  oblan- 
ceolate  in  shape,  short-stalked,  pointed  at  both 
ends  or  blunt,  sometimes  emarginate  at  the  apex 
and  irregularly  toothed  at  the  margin.  They 
have  a prominent  midrib,  the  lateral  branches  of 
which  are  curved  upward  near  the  margin.  Tea 
has  an  agreeable  odor,  which  varies,  however,  in 
the  different  varieties ; its  taste  is  pleasantly 
astringent  and  bitterish.  The  green  color  is  not 
unfrequently  heightened  or  imparted  to  tea  by 
a mixture  of  Prussian  blue  and  gypsum. 

Constituents. — Tea  contains  1 to  2,  or 
sometimes  4,  per  cent,  of  theme , which  was 
discovered  by  Oudry  (1827),  and  by  Mulder 
and  Jobst  (1838)  proved  to  be  identical  with 
caffeine  (see  page  361).  It  may  be  obtained  by 
sublimation  on  carefully  heating  powdered  tea- 
leaves,  or,  according  to  Cazeneuve  and  Caillot 
(1877),  by  macerating  in  a water-bath  and  dry- 
ing a mixture  of  1 part  of  cut  tea-leaves,  4 of 
water,  and  1 of  slaked  lime  ; the  residue  is 
exhausted  with  chloroform  ; this  is  distilled  off, 
and  the  greenish  mass  treated  with  boiling 
water ; the  solution  is  passed  through  a moist 
filter,  and  on  cooling  and  concentrating  yields 
the  alkaloid.  Mulder  obtained  from  tea  between  13  and  18  per  cent,  of  tannin,  which, 
according  to  Peligot,  is  peculiar,  and,  according  to  Stenhouse,  differs  from  gallo-tannic 
acid,  and  is  accompanied  by  a little  gallic  acid.  Bochleder  (1848),  on  the  contrary, 
found  a small  quantity  of  tannin  identical  with  that  of  nutgalls,  and  a smaller  proportion 
of  bolieic  acid , CuH20O12,  which  is  amorphous,  deliquescent,  freely  soluble  in  water  and 
alcohol,  and  is  colored  brown,  but  not  precipitated,  by  ferric  chloride.  Peligot  found  tea- 
leaves  to  contain  pectin.  Mulder  obtained  about  3 per  cent,  of  albumen,  2 to  nearly  4 
per  cent,  of  wax  and  resin,  aside  from  the  chlorophyll,  and  between  0.6  and  1 per  cent,  of 
volatile  oil,  which  necessarily  must  vary  with  the  variety  of  tea  yielding  it ; it  is 
of  a lemon-yellow  color,  has  a strong  aromatic  odor  and  taste,  and  congeals  readily. 
Tea  yields  between  4 and  6 per  cent,  of  ash,  about  two-thirds  of  which  is  soluble  in 
water ; but  on  extracting  tea-leaves  with  water,  one-half  to  three-fourths  or  more  of  the 
mineral  constituents  enter  the  infusion.  The  ash  contains  from  38  to  48  per  cent,  of 
potassa  and  from  11  to  26  per  cent,  of  phosphoric  acid.  The  nitrogen  of  the  leaves 
varies  between  4 and  7 per  cent.  li.  Weyrich  (1872),  found  it  impossible  to  determine 
chemically  the  value  of  tea;  the  best  results  were  obtained  from  determining  the  phos- 
phoric acid,  which  was  always  present  in  largest  proportion  in  the  best  qualities,  but  varies 
greatly  in  the  different  varieties,  green  tea  yielding  11.6  to  13.3  per  cent.,  black  tea  13.1 
to  17.3  per  cent.,  yellow  tea  18.5  to  25  per  cent.,  etc. 

By  expression  tea-seeds  yield  about  35  per  cent,  of  comestible  oil,  which  resembles 
olive  oil,  is  of  a yellow  color,  has  the  spec.  grav.  0.927,  becomes  turbid  below  5°  C. 
(41°  F.),  and  congeals  at  about  — 60°  C.  (21°  F.)  ; it  consists  of  olein  and  stearin. 

Allied  Plants. — Tiiea  (Camellia,  Linn6)  japonica,  Baillon,  s.  Thea  Camellia,  Hoffmann.  The 
seeds  of  this  well-known  ornamental  shrub  are  regarded  as  poisonous  in  Japan.  Katzuyama 
(1878)  isolated  from  them  tannin,  acrid  soft  fixed  oil,  and  camdlin,  which  is  nearly  insoluble  in 


Fig.  307. 


1594 


THE  A. 


cold  water  and  ether,  is  freely  soluble  in  water,  turns  yellow  by  alkalies,  and  red  by  sulphuric 
acid  containing  nitric  acid,  and  appears  to  be  a glucoside. 

Camellia  oleifera,  Abel  (Thea  oleosa,  Loureiro ),  and  Cam.  drupifera,  Loureiro.  The  seeds, 
like  tea-seeds,  yield  bland  fixed  oils,  that  of  the  last  species  having  an  agreeable  odor. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  most  familiar  effect  of  tea  is  its  power  of  inducing  a cheer- 
fulness of  disposition  and  a lively  flow  of  ideas,  without  that  tendency  to  mental  and 
physical  torpor  which  follows  the  exhilaration  caused  by  alcohol.  The  familiar  line  of 
Oowper,  “ The  cups  that  cheer,  but  not  inebriate,”  describes  its  usual  mode  of  action. 
There  can  be  no  doubt  that,  like  its  congeners,  tea  diminishes  the  need  of  food  even 
while  it  quickens  the  activity  of  the  nervous  system.  In  this  way,  probably,  it  has 
become  the  favorite  drink  of  women,  whose  sedentary  lives  impede  the  activity  of  tissue- 
waste,  without  lessening  the  craving  peculiar  to  their  sex  for  lively  conversation.  Tea 
imparts  to  them  the  mental  activity  which  their  ordinary  occupations  restrain.  It  also 
tends  to  banish  the  drowsiness  which  their  monotonous  labor  induces.  Many  men  have 
been  great  tea-drinkers,  but  they  were  chiefly  of  the  class  addicted  to  prolonged  mental 
labor,  particularly  at  night,  and  they  found  in  it  not  only  the  power  of  resisting  sleep, 
but  often  the  inspiration  of  bright  ideas.  It  is  evident  that  these  effects,  which  are  noto- 
rious and  familiar,  must  be  attributed  to  the  direct  stimulation  of  the  brain,  and  by  no 
means  to  the  restriction  of  tissue-change,  which  is  too  often  regarded  as  the  prime,  and 
indeed  the  sole,  effect  of  tea.  The  latter  is,  undoubtedly,  a real  result  of  tea-drinking,  but 
it  is  not  that  for  which  tea  is  so  universally  employed.  It  has  been  alleged  that  persons 
employed  in  tasting  tea  for  commercial  purposes  are  liable  to  lose  their  health  and  grow 
morbidly  nervous,  their  bowels  become  constipated,  and  the  urine  and  the  proportion  of 
urea  in  it  suffer  diminution  (Morton,  Monthly  Abstract.  Jan.  1880,  p.  54;  Smerinoff,  Bull, 
de  Therap .,  cxiv.  375).  It  is  affirmed  as  positively,  on  the  other  hand,  that  none  of  these 
alleged  effects  occur,  so  far  as  relates  to  derangement  of  the  nervous  system  and  the  gen- 
eral health  (Dana,  Medical  Record , xvii.  85).  But  the  former  statement  is  the  more  cor- 
rect. It  has  been  confirmed,  among  others,  by  Bullard  ( Boston  Med.  and  Bury.  Jour.y 
April,  1886,  p.  314;  Sept.  1887,  p.  217).  He  charges  to  the  abuse  of  tea  ringing  in  the 
ears,  headache,  tremor,  nervousness,  neuralgia,  exhaustion  of  mind  and  body,  hysteria, 
irregularity  and  palpitation  of  the  heart,  dyspnoea,  dyspepsia,  and  constipation.  Even 
delirium  has  been  attributed  to  the  chewing  of  tea  {Jour.  Amer.  Med.  Soc .,  vi.  658). 

In  comparing  the  physiological  effects  of  theine  and  caffeine  upon  the  excretions,  it  has 
been  found  by  some  experimenters  that  the  former  does  not  affect  the  elimination  of  car- 
bonic acid,  while  the  latter  diminishes  it,  as  well  as  the  discharge  of  urea,  uric  acid,  and 
water,  in  a larger  proportion  than  theine.  Caffeine  also  is  said  to  increase  the  watery 
constituent  of  the  urine,  while  theine  diminishes  it.  However  this  may  be,  it  is  a matter 
of  familiar  observation  that  the  effects  of  tea  and  coffee  upon  the  system  are  by  no  means 
identical ; for  while  coffee  causes  wakefulness  as  well  as  tea,  in  the  former  case  it  is  rather 
a pleasing  insomnia,  not  unlike  that  occasioned  by  small  doses  of  opium,  tranquil  for  the 
most  part,  and  filled  with  pleasing  reveries  ; while  tea,  on  the  other  hand,  induces  in  one 
who  endeavors  in  vain  to  sleep  after  its  use  a state  of  tension  of  the  nervous  system 
which  is  in  the  highest  degree  distressing.  Upon  almost  every  one  coffee  acts  as  a 
stimulant  which  is  more  or  less  cordial,  flushing  the  face  and  rendering  the  pulse  fuller, 
but  such  effects  never  follow  the  use  of  tea  as  direct  consequences.  It  is  seldom  that  a 
single  indulgence  in  strong  coffee  induces  that  nervous  agitation  and  tremulousness  and 
impaired  muscular  power  which  are  ordinary  effects  of  strong  tea ; and,  unless  we  are 
greatly  mistaken,  gastralgia  and  other  neuralgic  affections  are  much  more  frequent  among 
tea-drinkers  than  coffee-drinkers.  It  is  very  true  that  some  of  these  apparent  differences 
may  be  explained  by  the  fact  that  tea  is  generally  taken  with  only  a small  modicum  of 
cream  or  milk,  while  coffee  is  as  commonly  used  with  a large  proportion  of  one  or  both. 
Indeed,  in  France,  where  coffee  is  the  universal  breakfast  drink,  it  is  always  mixed  with 
a great  excess  of  milk,  and  it  is  used  pure  and  in  small  quantity,  chiefly  after  dinner, 
when  the  presence  of  food  in  the  stomach  retards  its  absorption  and  modifies  its  action. 
It  is,  however,  customary  for  those  who  have  mental  or  bodily  work  to  perform  before 
breakfast  to  take  a cup  of  “ black  coffee  ” immediately  on  leaving  bed. 

It  has  been  already  objected  that  theine  and  caffeine  do  not  fully  represent  the  sources 
from  which  they  are  respectively  obtained.  The  identity  of  these  alkaloids  in  their 
physiological  action  does  not  imply  a similar  identity  in  tea  and  coffee.  As  little  should 
we  be  entitled  to  infer  that  all  alcoholic  drinks  produce  identical  effects  because  they  all 
contain  alcohol  as  their  chief  constituent.  It  is  just  as  certain  that  tea  and  coffee  differ 
in  their  action  upon  the  human  system  as  that  Bhenish  or  Bordeaux  wine  acts  very  dif- 


THEOBROMA. 


1595 


ferently  from  whisky  or  brandy,  although  in  all  of  these  liquors  the  common  cause  of 
their  effects  is  alcohol.  Moreover,  not  only  are  theine  and  caffeine  physiologically  iden- 
tical, but  so  are  guaranine,  cocaine,  and  theobromine  with  them  and  with  one  another ; 
and  yet  the  operations  of  guarana,  coca,  and  theobroma  are  different  from  one  another, 
and  from  those  of  tea  and  coffee  in  important  particulars.  It  is  unquestionably  a fact 
of  the  highest  possible  interest  that  all  of  these  vegetable  products,  which  are  used  by 
different  and  remote  nations,  should  contain  identical  proximate  principles ; but  while  we 
thus  are  led  to  admire  the  universality  of  physiological  laws,  we  should  not  lose  sight 
of  the  peculiarities  which  distinguish  these  important  articles  of  human  food  from  one 
another. 

Dr.  Squibb  has  insisted  on  the  identity  of  action  of  the  fluid  extracts  of  tea  and  coca, 
although  the  former  is  two  and  a half  times  stronger  than  the  latter.  Hence  theine 
would  be  a more  eligible  medicine  than  cocaine  ( Ephemeris , 1884).  Dr.  Mays  confirmed 
the  possession  of  analgesic  virtues  by  theine  ( Med . News,  xlvii.  652 ; Trans.  Coll.  Phys. 
Philad.,  1886,  p.  365)  both  experimentally  and  clinically,  especially  in  controlling  pain 
due  to  central  causes.  In  this  respect  he  held  that  it  differs  from  cocaine,  which  is  more 
efficient  in  topical  pains.  He  found  that  its  anodyne  influence  is  usually  of  from  twelve 
to  twenty-four  hours’  duration,  even  in  cases  of  severe  pain.  It  has  been  used  hypo- 
dermically in  doses  of  from  j to  i grain  by  Bauduy  for  the  relief  of  neuralgia  ( Practi- 
tioner, xliv.  48). 

Among  the  Chinese,  we  are  told,  tea  is  held  to  be  “ cooling,  peptic,  exhilarating,  stimu- 
lating, both  laxative  and  astringent,  diuretic,  emmenagogue,  and,  in  large  concentrated 
doses,  emetic.  It  is  applied  in  a wash  to  the  eyes,  ulcers,  and  wounds  of  all  kinds,  but 
its  excessive  use  as  a drink  renders  people  thin,  anaemic,  and  weak-sighted.  Tea  is  taken 
by  Chinese  scholars  and  laborers  to  stave  off  the  cravings  of  hunger  until  a convenient 
season  arrives.”  The  Chinese  also  prescribe  tea,  acidulated  with  vinegar,  in  diarrhoea , 
and  give  it  as  an  antidote  to  the  poisonous  action  of  tartar  emetic  and  corrosive  sublimate. 
The  small  proportion  of  tannic  acid  contained  in  tea  renders  it  too  feeble  a remedy  in 
such  cases  if  stronger  ones  can  be  procured,  but  its  stimulant  and  exhilarant  action 
adapts  it  to  be  used  in  the  treatment  of  poisoning  by  opium.  A cup  of  hot  tea  is  a familiar 
domestic  remedy  for  the  relief  of  nausea  and  oppression  after  too  full  a meal ; to  produce 
diaphoresis  at  the  commencement  of  slight  attacks  of  muscular  rheumatism , pulmonary 
catarrh , or  sore  throat  ; and  to  banish  the  sense  of  fatigue  and  muscular  soreness  produced 
by  excessive  exertion,  particularly  when  it  is  seasoned  with  some  alcohol.  It  is  one  of 
the  best  remedies  for  nervous  headache , and  when  cold  or  acidulated  with  lemon-juice  is  a 
most  refreshing  drink  in  the  midsummer  heats  which  produce  excessive  perspiration.  It 
moderates  also  the  copious  sweats  of  hectic  conditions.  A strong  infusion  of  green  tea 
has  been  employed  by  injection  in  gonorrhoea , leucorrhoea,  and  gleet,  and  as  a wash  in  con- 
junctivitis, as  a gargle  in  sore  throat,  etc.  In  China  it  is  often  used  for  certain  of  these 
purposes  as  a fine  powder  mixed  with  water,  or  in  decoction  rather  than  in  infusion ; and 
doubtless  in  these  forms  its  operation  is  more  energetic. 

Theine  may  be  given  hypodermically.  The  primary  dose  is  about  Gm.  0.02  (gr.  1). 
It  should  be  repeated  at  intervals  according  to  its  effects. 

THEOBROMA.— Cacao. 

Semen  (s.  Fabse ) cacao.  — Cacao,  F.  Cod.,  Sp. ; Feves  du  Mexique,  Fr. ; Kakaobohnen , G. 

The  seeds  of  Theobroma  Cacao,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  38. 

Nat.  Ord. — Sterculiaceae,  Buettnerieae. 

Origin. — The  cacao  (often  incorrectly  called  cocoa ) or  chocolate  tree  is  indigenous  to 
Brazil  and  other  parts  of  tropical  America  northward  to  Mexico,  and  is  largely  cultivated 
throughout  the  tropics.  It  is  about  12  M.  (40  feet)  high,  has  alternate,  oblong-lanceo- 
late or  lance-ovate,  acute  and  entire  leaves,  and  produces  pale-pink,  five-petalled  flowers 
in  clusters  from  the  axils  of  old  leaf-scars.  The  fruit  is  about  15  Cm.  (6  inches)  long, 
pear-shaped,  with  an  elongated  nipple-shaped  apex,  ten-furrowed  and  while  unripe  five- 
celled,  and  contains  numerous  seeds  imbedded  in  a sweet  pulpy  mass. 

Preparation. — Cacao-seeds  are  prepared  for  use  by  removing  them  from  the  fruit 
and  simply  drying  them,  in  which  case  they  retain  their  astringent  and  bitter  taste ; or 
they  are  subjected  to  a sweating  process  by  enclosing  them  in  a box  or  burying  them  in 
the  ground  for  two  or  three  days,  whereby  they  lose  much  of  their  astringency  and  bit- 
terness, and  change  in  color ; the  best  cured  cacao  is  kept  in  heaps  covered  with  plantain 
or  other  green  leaves,  for  about  a week  before  it  is  finally  dried.  The  seeds  of  Th.  bico- 


1596 


THEOBROMA. 


lor,  Humboldt,  Th.  guayanensis,  Willdenow , Th.  sylvestre,  Mar tius,  Th.  ovatifolium,  $esse, 
and  other  species  are  stated  to  be  collected,  prepared,  and  mixed  with  the  seeds  of  the 
cacao ; but,  according  to  Karsten,  these  uncultivated  species  do  not  furnish  any  com- 
mercial cacao.  The  seeds  of  Herrania  albiflora,  Goudot , and  several  other  species  appear 
to  have  the  properties  of  cacao,  and  are  used  like  the  latter  in  the  mountain-districts  of 
South  America  under  the  name  of  cacao  cimarrona , but  they  are  only  of  about  the  size 
of  a pea  and  do  not  enter  commerce. 

Description. — The  seeds  are  15-25  Mm.  (|-  to  1 inch)  long,  ovate  or  oblong,  some- 
what flattened,  and  vary  in  color,  according  to  the  manner  in  which  they  have  been  pre- 
pared, from  brown-red  to  brown  or  grayish-brown.  A prominent  raphe  runs  along  one 
edge  of  the  seed  from  one  end  to  the  other,  uniting  the  hilum  and  chalaza,  and  is  divided 
at  the  latter  into  many  branching  nerves.  The  testa  is  thin,  papery,  and  fragile.  The 
embryo  has  the  shape  of  the  seed,  and  consists  of  a small  conical  radicle  and  two  large 
oily  cotyledons,  which  are  strongly  ribbed  upon  their  face,  and  by  the  projecting  folds  of 
the  inner  seed-coat  are  divided  from  the  back  into  numerous  small  irregular  lobes,  so  that 
they  readily  break  into  many  angular  pieces.  The  odor  of  cacao-seeds  is  slight,  but  on 
warming  is  agreeably  aromatic ; their  taste  is  oily,  aromatic,  and  bitterish. 

Constituents. — The  quantitative  analyses  by  Lampadius,  Tuchen  (1857),  and  A. 
Mitscherlicli  (1859)  vary  greatly  in  their  results.  Lampadius  found  the  seeds  to  yield 
about  12  per  cent,  of  husks  or  shells  and  about  88  per  cent,  of  kernels,  and  the  latter  to 
contain  about  53  per  cent  of  fat.  Mitscherlicli  obtained  from  the  seeds  nearly  50  per 
cent,  of  fat,  14  to  18  per  cent,  of  starch,  13  to  18  per  cent,  of  proteids,  1.2  to  1.5  per 
cent,  of  theobromine,  3.5  per  cent,  of  ash,  and  0.6  per  cent,  of  sugar.  Tuchen  found 
also  about  3 per  cent,  of  gluten,  and  isolated  between  4.5  and  6.6  per  cent,  of  cacao-red. 
The  latter  is  soluble  in  water  and  alcohol,  precipitated  by  lead  acetate,  and  is  generated 
in  the  seeds  during  the  sweating  process ; it  appears  to  be  combined  with  a proteid,  and 
when  pure  has  a carmine-red  color,  does  not  change  the  color  of  litmus,  and  is  insoluble 
in  litmus  and  fixed  oils.  Oil  of  theobroma  is  described  on  page  1161.  The  odorous  prin- 
ciple of  cacao  appears  to  be  somewhat  volatile,  but  has  not  been  isolated.  T heobromine, 

C7H8N402  (molecular  weight  179.75),  was  discovered  by  Woskresensky  (1841),  and  was 
found  by  Bley  (1842)  to  be  present  also  in  small  proportion  in  cacao-shells.  The  alka- 
loid is  obtained  from  the  infusion  of  cacao  by  precipitating  it  with  lead  acetate,  remov- 
ing the  excess  of  lead  by  hydrogen  sulphide,  evaporating  and  exhausting  the  residue 
with  boiling  alcohol,  from  which  the  alkaloid  separates  in  minute  colorless  or  white  bitter 
crystals  which  are  sparingly  soluble  in  cold  water,  alcohol,  and  ether,  and  require  for 
solution  55  parts  of  boiling  water,  47  parts  of  boiling  alcohol,  and  600  parts  of  boiling 
ether.  The  alkaloid  sublimes  without  decomposition  at  290°  C.  (554°  F.),  and  has  a neu- 
tral reaction,  but  yields  with  acids  crystallizable  salts  which  are  decomposed  by  water. 
Strecker  converted  theobromine  into  caffeine  by  heating  the  silver  compound  of  the  for- 
mer with  methyl  iodide  to  100°  C.  (212°  F.).  From  Trojanowsky’s  researches  (1875)  it 
appears  that  the  ash  of  the  kernel  is  usually  a little  below  3 per  cent.,  and  should  not 
materially  exceed  that  amount ; starch  was  found  to  vary  between  2.23  and  6.65  per 
cent.,  the  fat  from  39.3  to  52.05  per  cent.,  and  the  theobromine  from  1.205  to  4.652  per 
cent.,  while  the  shells  alone  yielded  from  0.866  to  4.540  per  cent,  of  the  alWhloid. 

Uses. — Cacao-seeds  are  employed  for  preparing  butter  of  cacao  (p.  1161)  by  express- 
ing them  between  heated  iron  plates.  The  press-cake,  ground  either  by  itself  or  with 
starchy  substances,  is  sold  as  cocoa.  The  seeds,  ground  together,  while  warm,  with  about 
their  own  weight  of  sugar,  constitute  chocolate.  This  is  usually  flavored  with  about  1 
per  cent,  of  cinnamon  or  other  aromatics,  and  occasionally  various  amylaceous  or  mucilag- 
inous substances  are  added  to  it. 

The  following  preparations  are  occasionally  used : 

Chocolata  simplicior. — Simple  chocolate,  E. ; Chocolate  de  sante,  Fr. — 3000  parts 
each  of  Caraccas  and  Maranon  cacao  are  well  cleaned,  torrefied,  deprived  of  the  shells, 
and  the  remaining  kernels  reduced  in  a heated  mortar  to  a paste,  which  is  well  mixed 
with  5000  parts  of  sugar  and  30  parts  of  powdered  cinnamon,  and  transferred  to  a hot 
slab,  where  it  is  worked  with  a roller  until  uniformly  mixed ; the  mass  is  now  transferred 
to  sheet-tin  moulds,  the  surface  rendered  smooth  by  heating,  ahd,  after  cooling,  the 
cakes  are  wrapped  in  tin-foil. 

Chocolata  cum  ferro. — Iron  chocolate,  E. ; Chocolat  ferrugineux,  Fr. — Mix  10 
parts  of  ferric  oxide  with  990  parts  of  simple  chocolate. 

Chocolata  cum  vanilla.  Vanilla  4 parts  ; sugar  36  parts  ; chocolate  without  cinna- 
mon 1000  parts. 


THERIACA. 


1597 


Chocolata  cum  cetraria. — Iceland  moss  chocolate,  E. ; Chocolat  au  lichen  d’Islande, 
Fr. — Mix  100  parts  of  saccharated  powdered  Iceland-moss  jelly  (see  page  441)  with  1000 
parts  of  simple  chocolate. 

Chocolata  cum  salep. — Salep  chocolate,  E.  ; Chocolat  au  salep,  Fr. — Incorporate  30 
parts  of  powdered  salep  with  1000  parts  of  simple  chocolate. 

Preparations  analogous  to  the  latter  are  made  by  substituting  powdered  tapioca,  sago, 
or  arrowroot  for  the  salep,  and  the  aromatics  are  often  varied  by  replacing  the  cinnamon 
wholly  or  in  part  with  powdered  cloves,  mace,  nutmeg,  cardamom,  or  vanilla  sugar. 
Chocolate  has  also  been  medicated  by  incorporating  with  1000  parts  of  simple  chocolate 
30  parts  of  powdered  catechu,  or  GO  parts  of  guarana  or  powdered  cinchona,  or  100  parts 
of  calcined  magnesia,  etc.  Chocolate  has  been  proposed  as  a pleasant  vehicle  in  the 
preparation  of  lozenges  containing  santonin,  etc. 

Action,  and  Uses. — The  dietetic  uses  of  chocolate  do  not  require  any  detailed 
notice  in  this  place.  Prepared  with  water  or  milk,  it  is  employed  as  a substitute  for 
coffee  in  Southern  Europe,  South  America,  Mexico,  and  the  West  Indies,  and  to  a less 
degree  in  other  civilized  countries.  It  is  difficult  to  discern  in  it,  when  thus  used,  any  of 
the  stimulating  qualities  which  belong  to  the  theobromine  it  contains.  It  is  to  be  pre- 
ferred to  the  other  agents  mentioned  when  a nutritive  rather  than  an  excitant  operation 
is  desired ; and  hence  it  is  familiarly  employed  during  convalescence  from  acute  diseases, 
and  as  a substitute  for  tea  or  coffee  in  the  diet  of  persons  whose  nervous  system  is  liable 
to  be  deranged  by  them.  Chocolate  prepared  with  milk,  and  seasoned  by  the  addition  of 
a modicum  of  coffee,  is  less  stimulating  than  the  latter  and  more  palatable  than  chocolate 
alone. 

According  to  Gram  ( Therop . Monatsh.,  iv.  10),  theobromine  is  absorbed  with  difficulty, 
but  when  absorbed  it  is  powerfully  diuretic  through  a direct  action  upon  the  kidneys.  It 
does  not  affect  the  heart.  The  sodium  salicylate  of  theobromine  is  readily  absorbed,  and 
is  also  diuretic.  It  has  no  poisonous  action,  and  may  be  given  in  doses  of  Gm.  1 (gr.  xv) 
five  to  six  times  a day.  These  conclusions  have  been  confirmed  by  several  observers 
(Schroeder,  Therap.  Monatsh.,  iv.  374;  Kouindjy-Pomerantz,  (Bull,  de  Therap.,  cxix. 
112),  and  especially  by  Koritzschoner  ( Therap . Monatsh .,  iv.  559),  who  also  made  use 
of  the  compound  of  theobromine,  soda,  and  salicylic  acid  known  as  “ Diuretin.”  In  no 
case  did  the  medicine  produce  any  sensible  change  in  the  circulation. 

Diuretin,  as  above  stated,  is  supposed  to  owe  its  diuretic  virtue  to  the  theobromine  it 
contains  in  a larger  proportion  than  caffeine.  It  does  not  depress  the  heart,  and  most 
observers  claim  that  it  does  not  irritate  the  kidneys.  It  is  said  to  increase  the  discharge 
of  urine  sixfold.  The  testimony  in  its  favor  as  a remedy  for  dropsy , especially  for 
cardiac  dropsy,  is  almost  unanimous.  (Compare  Therap.  Gaz .,  xv.  560  ; xvi.  G7  and 
164;  Amer.  Jour.  Med.  Sci .,  ciii.  75;  cv.  481  ; Univers.  Med.  Mag.,v.  737.)  Frank  states 
that  although  the  specific  gravity  of  the  urine  may  decline  even  to  1010  under  its  use, 
yet  the  total  amount  of  solids  discharged  is  not  increased,  and  also  that,  contrary  to  the 
general  belief,  it  does  irritate  the  kidneys  (Amer.  Jour.  Med.  Sci '.,  civ.  338).  Dr.  Keyes 
is  disposed  to  attribute  to  the  use  of  10  grains  of  diuretin,  every  four  hours  during  two 
days  previous  to  operations  on  the  bladder,  the  immunity  of  his  patients  from  urinary 
fever  {Med.  News , lix.  505).  Diuretin  is  usually  given  in  doses  of  Gm.  1 (gr.  xv)  three 
or  four  times  a day  in  sweetened  mint-water,  but  these  doses  may  be  doubled  without 
danger.  See  also  page  1481. 

THERIACA,  Br.— Treacle. 

Syrupus  fuseus , Sacchari  fcex,  Syrupus  communis , s.  hollandicus. — Molasses , E. ; Melasses 
Pyromel , Fr. ; Melasse , Brauner  Sirup,  G. 

The  uncrystallized  residue  of  the  refining  of  sugar. — Br. 

Origin  and  Properties. — The  manner  in  which  molasses  is  obtained  is  described 
on  page  1394.  That  variety  procured  in  the  preparation  of  raw  sugar  is  in  the  United 
States  usually  designated  as  West  India  molasses,  while  that  drained  from  refined  sugar 
is  knows  as  sugar-house  molasses.  Both  kinds  closely  resemble  each  other,  except  that 
the  former  is  of  a lighter  color  and  has  a different  somewhat  empyreumatic  flavor. 
Molasses  is  a brown,  thick,  fermentable  uncrystallizable  syrup  of  a very  sweet  taste  and 
having  a specific  gravity  of  about  1.40.  It  contains  about  75  per  cent,  of  solid  matter, 
of  which  from  5 to  7 per  cent,  are  salts.  The  molasses  of  beet-root  sugar,  according  to 
Landolt  (1868),  contains  56  to  64  per  cent,  of  sugar  and  about  20  per  cent,  of  oxalate, 
tartrate,  and  malate  of  potassium. 


1 598 


THUJA. 


Uses. — Molasses — or  treacle,  as  it  is  called  in  England — is  rather  a food  than  a 
medicine.  Apart  from  its  pharmaceutical  uses,  it  is  seldom  employed  medicinally  except 
as  an  ingredient  of  the  common  domestic  enema,  which  consists  usually  of  a pint  of  warm 
water  to  which  a wine-glassful  or  more  of  molasses  and  a heaped  tablespoonful  of  salt 
have  been  added.  It  is  also  a popular  remedy  for  superficial  burns , which  it  protects  as 
well  as  oil  and  various  other  agents  which  act  chiefly  by  excluding  the  air. 

THUJA, — Thuja  (Arbor  Vitje). 

Thuya,  Arbre  de  vie , Fr. ; Lebensbaum , G. 

The  small  branches  of  Thuja  occidentalis,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Coniferse. 

Origin. — The  arbor  vitae,  also  called  white  cedar , is  a tree  with  spreading  branches, 
attaining  under  favorable  circumstances  a height  of  15  M.  (50  feet).  It  grows  in  cedar 
swamps  in  Canada  and  the  northern  section  of  the  United  States,  and  is  met  with  south- 
ward along  the  Alleglianies  and  westward  to  Wisconsin.  It  has  been  introduced  into 
Europe  as  an  ornamental  tree. 

Description. — The  branchlets  are  dark-green  and  rather  glossy  above,  dull  pale- 
green  beneath,  two-edged,  and  flat  from  the  appressed  scale-like  leaves,  which  are  placed 
in  four  rows,  closely  imbricate,  3-4  Mm.  (f  to  i inch)  long,  rhombic-ovate,  obtusely 
pointed,  and  bear  upon  the  back  near  the  apex  an  elevated  roundish  gland  ; the  leaves 
forming  the  edges  of  the  branchlets  are  folded  in  the  centre,  compressed,  boat-shaped, 
when  young  with  a small  gland  beneath  the  apex,  the  older  ones  glandless.  The  odor  is 
strongly  balsamic  and  the  taste  pungently  aromatic,  camphoraceous,  and  bitter. 

The  allied  Thuja  orientalis,  Linne , which  is  indigenous  to  Asia,  is  sometimes  cultivated 
as  an  ornamental  tree.  It  is  distinguished  from  the  preceding  by  the  erect  branches  and 
by  the  absence  of  glands  and  the  grooved  back  of  the  leaves.  The  Western  species, 
Thuja  gigantea,  Nuttall , stows  from  Northern  California  northward,  and  attains  a height 
of  36  M.  (120  feet). 

Constituents. — The  volatile  oil  of  arbor  vitae  was  examined  by  Bonastre  (1825)  and 
Schweizer  (1844).  Hiibschmann  (1846)  obtained  about  1 per  cent,  of  the  weight  of  the 
branchlets.  The  volatile  oil  is  colorless  or  greenish-yellow,  has  the  density  0.925,  and  is 
a mixture  of  two  oxygenated  oils  boiling  near  195°  and  205°  C.  (383°  and  400°  F.)  ; it 
is  readily  soluble  in  alcohol,  and  when  treated  with  potassa  or  with  sulphuric  acid 
acquires  a black  color.  Kawalier  (1854-58)  obtained  from  arbor  vitae,  in  addition  to 
the  volatile  oil,  a gelatinous  compound,  sugar,  two  resins,  tannin,  pinipicrin,  and  thujin. 
Pinipicrin , C^HggOn,  was  discovered  by  Kawalier  (1853)  in  the  leaves  and  bark  of  Pinus 
sylvestris.  It  is  a yellow  bitter  powder  which  becomes  soft  at  55°  C.  (131°  F.),  fuses  to 
a transparent  liquid  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.),  is  not  precipitated  by  lead  salts,  dissolves  in 
water,  alcohol,  and  spirit  of  ether,  is  insoluble  in  pure  ether,  and  when  boiled  with  diluted 
acids  is  split  into  sugar  and  ericinol.  Thujin , C2oH22012,  crystallizes  in  small  lemon-yellow 
tables,  has  an  astringent  taste,  dissolves  readily  in  alcohol  and  hot  water,  acquires  with 
alkalies  a deep-yellow  and  red-brown,  and  with  ferric  chloride  a dark-green  color,  and 
is  precipitated  by  lead  acetate  and  subacetate.  When  heated  with  dilute  hydrochloric 
acid  it  is  converted  into  sugar  and  thujigenin , C14H1207,  and  thujetin , C14H1408,  both  of 
which  are  almost  insoluble  in  cold  water,  and  when  in  alcoholic  solution  acquire  a hand- 
some blue-green  color  with  ammonia.  Thujin,  boiled  with  barium  hydroxide,  yields 
sugar  and  thujetic  acid , C28H22018,  which  is  insoluble  in  water.  These  compounds  are  prob- 
ably related  to  quercitrin  and  its  derivatives. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparation. — Tinctura  thuja],  Tincture  of  arbor  vitae. 
5 parts  of  the  fresh  small  branches  of  arbor  vitae  are  bruised,  and  macerated  with  6 parts 
of  alcohol  for  eight  days  ; the  liquid  is  expressed  and  filtered. — P.  G.  1872.  The  tincture 
is  of  a greenish-yellow  color. 

Action  and  Uses. — Arbor  vitae  somewhat  resembles  savine  in  its  qualities,  and 
particularly  by  irritating  the  skin  when  the  fresh  leaves  or  an  ointment  made  from  them 
is  applied  to  it.  Like  savine,  it  has  been  found  useful  in  repressing  the  fungous  granu- 
lations of  ulcers , in  removing  warts , and  in  an  ointment  as  a palliative  of  chronic  rheuma- 
tism. Some  have  even  gone  so  far  as  to  attribute  to  it  the  cure  of  cancerous  ulcers  both 
of  external  parts  and  of  the  uterus,  even  when  administered  internally  alone  {Med.  News, 
xlv.  185).  The  published  reports,  however,  rather  denote  cases  of  simple  ulcers  aggra- 
vated by  improper  applications  as  those  which  have  been  benefited  by  this  medicine. 
Both  internally  and  topically  it  is  alleged  to  be  an  effectual  remedy  for  venereal  warts 


THUS  AMERICANA.— THYMOL. 


1599 


(Bull.  de.  Soc.  The  rap.,  June,  1886).  Internally,  it  has  been  given  with  alleged  benefit 
in  amenorrhcea  and  pulmonary  catarrh , and  for  destroying  worms.  For  these  several  pur- 
poses the  distilled  oil  has  been  found  efficient.  This  oil  is  a stimulant  of  the  heart  and 
spinal  marrow,  and,  given  to  animals  in  poisonous  doses,  it  occasions  tonic  and  clonic 
convulsions  (Strahmann,  Therap.  Gaz.,  ix.  827).  It  has  been  applied  to  reduce  various 
neoplasmic  growths  and  correct  the  fetor  of  discharges  (Ther.  Gaz.,  xii.  422).  Boer- 
haave  used  a distilled  water  of  the  leaves  in  dropsy.  A fluid  extract  and  a saturated 
tincture  have  been  given  in  doses  of  Gm.  4 (1  fluidrachm)  several  times  a day,  and 
applied  topically  on  compresses  and  to  the  uterus  on  a tampon.  An  ointment  made  with 
the  leaves  or  with  the  volatile  oil  has  been  used  in  rheumatism. 

THUS  AMERICANA,  Br  — Common  Frankincense. 

The  concrete  turpentine  of  Pinus  Taeda,  Linne.  (See  Terebinthina.) 

Uses. — This  turpentine  may  be  used  for  the  various  purposes  to  which  other  turpen- 
tines are  adapted.  In  England  it  forms  a constituent  of  the  official  pitch  plaster,  under 
the  name  of  common  frankincense. 

THYMOL,  V.  S.,  Br.,  F.  Cod.— Thymol. 

Thymolum , P.  G. ; Acidum  thymicum. — Thymol , E.,  Fr.,  G.  ; Thymic  acid , E. ; Acide 
thymique,  Fr.  ; T hymiansdure,  G. 

Formula  C10Hi3OH.  Molecular  weight  149.66. 

Origin. — Thymol  is  a phenol  occurring  in  the  volatile  oils  of  Thymus  vulgaris,  Linn 
Monarda  punctata,  Linne , Carum  Ajowan,  De  Candolle,  and  very  likely  in  other  volatile 
oils  of  the  natural  orders  Labiatse  and  Umbelliferse. 

Preparation. — Oil  of  thyme  is  subjected  to  fractional  distillation.  That  portion 
which  distils  at  a temperature  above  200°  C.  (392°  F.)  is  separately  collected,  and  is 
agitated  with  solution  of  soda,  the  solution  of  sodium  thymol  separated  from  the  thymene, 
and  the  thymol  liberated  by  hydrochloric  acid  ; after  it  has  crystallized  it  is  pressed 
between  bibulous  paper  and  recrystallized  from  alcohol.  This  is  Lallemand’s  process 
(1853),  which  may  be  modified  so  as  to  distil  off  only  the  hydrocarbons  at  a temperature 
not  exceeding  180°  C.  (356°  F.),  and  treating  the  residue  in  the  still  with  soda  solution 
as  stated.  By  a similar  process  thymol  is  obtained  from  the  volatile  oils  of  Monarda  and 
of  Ptychotis. 

Properties. — Thymol  crystallizes  in  thin,  colorless,  rhombic  scales  or  is  seen  in  com- 
merce in  large  translucent  crystals  of  the  spec.  grav.  1.069  at  15°  G.  (59°  F.).  It  melts 
between  50°  and  52°  C.  (122°-125.6°  F.)  (U.  S.,  P.  G.)  to  a colorless  liquid  lighter 
than  water,  retains  its  fluid  condition  often  for  a long  time,  and  boils  near  230°  C.  (446° 
F.).  It  has  an  aromatic  thyme-like  odor  and  a warm,  pungent  but  scarcely  caustic  taste. 
It  dissolves  sparingly  in  water,  requiring  at  15°  C.  1100  (P.  G.~)  or  1200  (U.  S.~)  parts 
for  solution,  but  is  soluble  in  half  its  weight  of  alcohol,  ether,  and  chloroform,  in  2 parts 
of  soda  solution  sp.  gr.  1.16,  and  freely  in  benzene,  benzin,  carbon  disulphide,  glacial 
acetic  acid,  and  fixed  and  volatile  oils.  It  forms  with  soda  a crystallizable  and  readily 
soluble  compound,  and  does  not  change  the  color  of  solution  of  ferric  chloride.  Symes 
(1879)  ascertained  that  on  being  triturated  with  one-half  to  ten  times  its  weight  of 
camphor  a colorless  syrupy  liquid  is  obtained  ; it  also  liquefies  when  triturated  with  its 
own  weight  of  menthol  or  chloral.  According  to  Gerrard.  the  strongest  aqueous  solution 
of  thymol  available  is  1 in  1000,  and  a solution  of  4 grains  of  it  in  a fluidounce  of  alcohol 
is  miscible  with  water  without  becoming  turbid ; 3 grains  of  thymol  are  dissolved  by  1 
grain  of  caustic  soda  and  grains  of  caustic  potassa.  Solid  fats,  when  heated,  are  ex- 
cellent solvents  of  thvmol.  A solution  of  1 part  of  thymol  in  100  parts  of  warm  glycerin 
remains  clear.  Thymol  is  also  soluble  in  4 parts  of  cold  sulphuric  acid;  the  solution  has 
a yellowish  color,  and  on  being  gently  heated  becomes  rose-red.  On  pouring  this  solu- 
tion into  10  volumes  of  water,  digesting  the  mixture  with  an  excess  of  lead  carbonate,  and 
filtering,  the  liquid  becomes  violet-blue  on  the  addition  of  ferric  chloride.  This  reaction 
is  due  to  thymolsulphonic  acid,  HC^H^SO^  discovered  by  Lallemand  (1853).  Hammersten 
and  Robert  (1881)  give  the  following  as  the  most  delicate  test  by  which  one-millionth  part 
of  thymol  may  still  be  detected  : Mix  the  liquid  with  one-half  of  its  volume  of  glacial 
acetic  acid,  then  with  at  least  an  equal  volume  of  sulphuric  acid,  and  warm  gently,  when 
a bright  reddish-violet  color  is  produced  which  is  not  destroyed  by  boiling.  According  to 
Hirschsohn  (1881),  a solution  of  thymol  in  60,000  parts  of  water  is  rendered  turbid  by 
bromine-water,  but  according  to  Hammarsten  the  precipitate  is  not  crystalline  like  tri- 


1600 


THYMOL. 


bromoplienol.  If  a very  small  crystal  of  thymol  be  dissolved  in  1 Cc.  of  glacial  acetic 
acid,  and  then  6 drops  of  sulphuric  acid  and  1 drop  of  nitric  acid  be  added,  the  liquid 
will  assume  a deep  bluish-green  color. 

Composition. — Thymol  is  the  phenol  of  cymene,  and  its  composition  is  shown  by 
the  formula  C6H3.C3H7.CH3. OH.  Widman  (1882)  has  succeeded  in  preparing  it  syntheti- 
cally from  cuminol  (see  page  560)  by  converting  this  into  nitrocuminol,  acting  upon  this 
with  phosphorus  pentacliloride,  when  nitrocymylene  chloride,  C10Hn(NO2)Cl2,  is  formed, 
and  treating  this  with  nascent  hydrogen,  first  at  a low  temperature,  afterward  with  the 
aid  of  heat,  to  obtain  cymidin,  C10H13.NH2.  A dilute  solution  of  cymidin  sulphate  is 
treated  with  potassium  nitrite  and  finally  distilled,  when  thymol  is  obtained,  having  the 
melting-point  44°  C.  (111.2°  F.),  which  is  the  same  as  found  by  Lallemand  and  Sten- 
house  for  thymol  from  the  oils  of  thyme  and  of  ptychotis.  Widman  prepared  nitroso- 
thymol  from  artificial  thymol  ; the  product  from  both  fused  between  160°  and  162°  C. 
(320°-323.6°  F.). 

Tests. — Thymol  should  be  volatilized  by  the  heat  of  a water-bath  without  leaving 
any  residue  (inorganic  and  non-volatile  organic  compounds).  Its  saturated  aqueous  solu- 
tion should  have  a neutral  reaction,  and  should  not  acquire  a darker  color  on  the  addition 
of  a drop  of  test-solution  of  ferric  chloride  (carbolic  acid,  various  phenols,  etc.).  If  1 
Gm.  of  thymol  be  heated  in  a test-tube,  in  a water-bath,  with  5 Cc.  of  a 10  per  cent, 
solution  of  sodium  hydroxide,  a clear,  colorless,  or  very  slightly  reddish  solution  should 
be  obtained,  which  becomes  darker  on  standing,  but  without  the  separation  of  oily  drops 
(absence  of  thymene  or  kevogyrate  pinene,  C10H16).  If  to  this  solution  a few  drops  of 
chloroform  be  added  and  the  mixture  agitated,  a violet  color  will  be  produced. 

Derivative  Compound. — Thymacetin,  CH3.C3H7.C6H2.0C2H5.NH.C2H30  ; mol.  weight  134.51, 
occupies  the  same  relation  to  thymol  as  phenacetin  does  to  phenol  (carbolic  acid),  and  is  pre- 
pared in  an  analogous  manner.  It  occurs  as  a white  crystalline  powder  but  sparingly  soluble 
in  water. 

Action  and  Uses. — Thymol  is  comparatively  harmless  when  administered  internally, 
not  disturbing  digestion,  although  it  arrests  gastric  fermentation.  It  is  ten  times  less 
poisonous  than  carbolic  acid,  and  hence  may  be  used  even  in  equal  quantities  with  a very 
inferior  risk.  Some  persons  find  its  taste  and  smell  as  repulsive  as  those  of  carbolic 
acid,  but  the  greater  number  claim  for  it  an  agreeable  aromatic  odor  and  flavor.  When 
taken  largely  by  sensitive  persons  it  causes  ringing  in  the  ears,  and  even  deep  somno- 
lence, and  collapse. 

The  applications  of  thymol  in  medicine  and  surgery  are  identical  with  those  of  carbolic 
acid,  to  which  it  appears  to  be  very  little  inferior  for  all  the  purposes  to  which  the  latter 
is  applied.  It  has  over  this  acid  the  great  advantage  of  possessing  an  agreeable  instead 
of  a very  offensive  odor,  and  of  not  being  an  irritant  or  corrosive,  and  therefore  of  not 
causing  pain.  An  objection  has  been  made  to  it  that  in  summer  it  tends  to  attract  flies 
to  the  injured  parts.  Among  surgeons  who  have  expressed  a favorable  judgment  of  its 
antiseptic  qualities  is  Mr.  Spencer  Wells,  who  in  a series  of  ovariotomy  operations  gave 
it  the  preference  over  carbolic  acid.  He  used  a solution  of  1 : 1000  for  spray,  irrigation, 
sponges,  instruments,  and  all  other  antiseptic  purposes.  It  has  been  employed  to  correct 
the  fetor  of  suppurating  burns  and  gangrenous  wounds  and  ulcers.  Indeed,  it  has  been 
found  to  be  an  excellent  anodyne  for  recent  burns  in  a solution  of  1 : 1000  of  water. 
Where  sloughs  exist  it  causes  them  to  separate  more  rapidly  than  usual,  leaving  more 
healthy  granulations  and  a better  cicatrix  than  after  carbolic  acid.  A solution  of 
1 : 3000  was  found  an  efficient  lotion  in  a case  of  violent  stomatitis  and  in  seven  cases 
of  diphtheria , in  which  it  was  injected  into  the  nostrils  and  throat.  A similar  solution 
atomized  is  of  great  benefit  in  fetid  bronchitis.  Its  agreeable  taste  and  smell  adapt  it 
especially  to  the  last-named  purpose.  In  chronic  coryza  and  ozsena  (Seiss,  Med.  News , 
i.  370),  conjunctivitis , and  otorrlioea , in  gonorrhoea , and  in  all  mucous  fluxes  it  has  been 
used  with  advantage,  both  in  simple  watery  solution  and  with  the  addition  of  boracic 
acid.  In  obstetrical  practice  when  the  lochia  are  offensive,  and  in  cases  of  fetid  urine 
or  vaginal  leucorrhoea , and  even  when  the  discharge  is  due  to  cancer  of  the  uterus , vagina , 
or  bladder , not  only  is  the  fetor  neutralized,  but  the  inflamed  and  ulcerated  tissues  are 
favorably  modified.  It  is  a very  efficient  and  agreeable  deodorizer  for  the  hands  of  sur- 
geons and  obstetricians.  In  lesions  of  the  vagina  and  other  accessible  parts  a lotion 
should  be  used  several  times  a day,  and  cotton  saturated  with  thymolized  glycerin  may 
be  left  in  contact  with  the  diseased  structure.  For  these  different  purposes  the  solution 
should  vary  in  strength  from  1 : 1000  to  1 : 4000  (Seyferth). 


TIL  I A . 


1601 


Injected  into  dead  bodies,  it  preserves  them  from  decomposition  ; applied  pure  to  warts , 
it  causes  them  to  shrivel  and  disappear.  In  skin  diseases  it  has  been  found  useful  in  the 
same  cases  for  which  tar  has  so  long  proved  to  be  the  best  topical  remedy — that  is  to  say, 
in  psoriasis  and  chronic  eczema , but  especially  in  the  former — and  it  has  the  advantage 
over  tar  of  not  staining  the  bed-  and  body-clotliing.  It  is  recommended  to  apply  it  in  an 
ointment  consisting  of  1 ounce  of  soft  paraffin  and  from  Gm.  0.30-2  (5  to  30  grains)  of 
thymol,  or  in  a lotion  consisting  of  thymol  Gm.  0.30  (5  grains),  rectified  spirit  and  gly- 
cerin each  1 ounce,  water  to  make  8 ounces.  In  “ ringworm  ” Morris  advises  as  a lotion 
thymol  gss ; chloroform  gij  ; olive  oil  ^vj  ( Practitioner , xxvi.  362).  It  is  claimed  by 
Campi  to  be  a taeniacide  and  taeniafuge.  He  gave  from  11-5  drachms  a day  in  divided 
doses,  and  followed  them  with  castor  oil.  During  the  action  of  the  medicine  he  admin- 
istered diffusible  stimulants  to  counteract  its  depressing  effects  ( Med . News,  xl.  459). 
Martini  claims  for  the  stearoptene  a special  virtue  due  to  its  insolubility  in  the  secretions 
of  the  digestive  canal,  because  it  thereby  acts  moderately  and  on  the  whole  intestinal 
mucous  membrane.  He  regards  it  as  a valuable  agent  in  the  treatment  of  various  forms 
of  diarrhoea  and  dysentery,  including  that  of  typhoid  fever  ( Med . Record,  xxxii.  149). 
Dr.  H.  P.  Henry  thinks  that  it  favorably  influences  the  latter  disease.  He  gave  it  in  pill 
with  soap,  and  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.13—0.16  (2  or  21  grains)  every  six  hours  (Trans. 
Assoc.  Amer.  Phys.,  iii.  346).  It  probably  acts  favorably  by  stimulating  the  intestinal 
ulcers  and  by  preventing  an  accumulation  of  intestinal  gas.  Equally  good  effects  have 
been  derived  from  its  use  in  the  diarrhoea  of  tubercular  phthisis  (Bruen,  Ther.  Gaz., 
xii.  105 ; Philipowicz,  Med.  News,  liv.  128).  Sauter  ranked  thymol  as  an  antiseptic 
below  salicylic  acid  (Centralbl.  f.  Ther.,  vi.  376).  Its  power  of  limiting  fermentation  has 
been  thought  by  Bufalini  (Med.  News,  li.  660)  to  assist  the  operation  of  a continued 
proteid  diet  in  the  treatment  of  diabetes.  As  a substitute  for  the  antiseptic  surgical 
dressing  prepared  with  carbolic  acid  a solution  is  recommended  as  follows : Thymol 
1 Gm.,  alcohol  10,  glycerin  30,  water  1000  Gm.  This  solution  has  no  corrosive  action 
on  instruments  immersed  in  it;  it  causes,  however,  a lively  sensation  of  burning,  accom- 
panied with  redness  of  the  skin,  but  not  with  anaesthesia,  nor  does  it  produce  desquama- 
tion of  the  epidermis.  Neither  does  it,  like  carbolic  acid,  give  rise  to  constitutional 
symptoms,  nor  occasion  as  much  discharge  from  wounds  as  carbolic  acid  does.  As  a sub- 
stitute for  carbolic  acid  in  the  antiseptic  method  [of  dressing  wounds,  its  effects  are 
reported  to  be  excellent.  After  forty-one  out  of  fifty-nine  operations  the  secretion  was 
serous  in  only  eight  and  purulent  in  two  ; in  the  remainder  there  was  absolutely  no  secre- 
tion. Many  of  these  operations  involved  large  surfaces  or  were  for  diseased  joints,  etc. 
According  to  Banke,  the  results  obtained  with  thymol  (antiseptically  considered)  are  as 
good  as  those  with  carbolic  acid,  while  the  former  presents  these  advantages : that  the 
secretion  of  wounds  treated  by  it  is  much  less,  and  their  rate  of  healing  much  quicker. 
Moreover,  it  produces  no  bad  effects  upon  the  system  at  large,  and  does  not  irritate  the 
parts  to  which  it  is  applied  in  solution  (Medical  Times  and  Gazette , March,  1878). 

Thymacetin  has  been  used  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.25-1  (5  to  15  grains)  for  the  relief  of 
some  cases  of  neuralgic  headache.  Its  action  is  very  like  that  of  phenacetin. 

TILIA. -Linden-flowers. 

Flores  tilise,  P.  G. — Tilleul  (Fleurs),  F.  Cod. ; Lindenbliithen,  G.  ; Tilo,  Sp. 

The  inflorescence  of  different  species  of  Tilia. 

Nat.  Ord. — Tiliaceae. 

Origin. — The  different  species  of  linden,  which  are  also  known  as  Time  tree,  white- 
wood,  and  bass-wood,  are  stately  trees  from  12-30  M.  (40  to  100  feet)  high,  and  have  a 
soft  white  wood,  a fibrous  bark,  and  alternate  petiolate,  heart-shaped,  serrate  leaves,  fre- 
quently with  a more  or  less  oblique  base.  The  wood  yields  a very  light  charcoal. 

Tilia  ulmifolia,  Scopoli  (T.  parvifolia,  Ehrhart,  T.  microphylla,  Ventenat).  The 
leaves  are  pale-green  on  the  lower  surface  and  pubescent  in  the  angles  of  the  veins, 
otherwise  smooth  ; the  cymes  are  about  seven-flowered. 

Tilia  platyphyllos,  Scopoli  (T.  grandifolia,  Ehrhart , T.  pauciflora,  Hayne).  The 
leaves  are  larger  and  softly  pubescent  beneath  ; the  cymes  are  about  three-flowered. 
This,  with  the  preceding  species,  constitutes  Tilia  europaea,  Linne,  and  is  occasionally 
cultivated  as  an  ornamental  tree. 

Tilia  Americana,  Linne.  It  has  thickish  and  smooth  (T.  glabra,  Ventenat)  or  under- 
neath softly  pubescent  and  frequently  thin  (T.  pubescens,  Aiton)  leaves  ; the  cymes  are 
101 


1602 


TINCTURE. 


mostly  many-flowered.  The  smooth  form  grows  in  Canada  and  the  United  States,  the 
pubescent  variety  from  Maryland  southward. 

Tilia  heterophylla,  Ventenat  (T.  alba,  Michaux , T.  laxiflora,  Pursh ).  It  is  found 
from  the  mountains  of  Pennsylvania  along  the  Ohio  and  Mississippi  and  southward,  and 
has  the  leaves  bright-green  and  smooth  above  and  silvery- whitened  beneath.  It  resembles 
the  South  European  Tilia  argentea,  Desfontaines,  which,  however,  has  the  leaves  on  shorter 
petioles. 

Description. — Linden-flowers  grow  in  axillary  cymes,  and  have  the  peduncle  partly 
united  to  the  midrib  of  a leaf-like,  linear,  or  oblong-lanceolate  greenish-yellow  bract. 
The  flowers  of  each  cyme  vary  in  the  different  species  from  three  to  about  thirty  in  num- 
ber, and  have  a five-parted  calyx  and  five  whitish  or  yellowish,  lanceolate  or  oblong,  usu- 
ally notched  petals.  The  numerous  stamens  are  hypogynous,  slightly  united  in  the  first 
two  species  by  the  base  of  their  filaments  into  about  five  groups,  or  in  the  other  species 
with  the  base  of  a petal-like  scale  placed  opposite  each  petal.  The  ovary  is  five-celled, 
has  a style  with  a five-lobed  stigma,  and  produces  a globular,  nut-like,  one-celled  capsule 
containing  one  or  two  seeds.  Linden-flowers  have  an  agreeable  and  (when  dry)  feeble 
odor  and  a sweetish  and  mucilaginous  taste.  American  linden-flowers  and  their  bracts 
are  larger  than  the  European,  and  the  petals  have  a somewhat  liorn-likc  appearance. 

Constituents. — From  the  analyses  made  by  Marggraf,  Brossat,  Buchner,  Siller, 
Winckler,  and  others  it  appears  that  linden-flowers  contain  mucilaginous  or  pectinaceous 
principles,  sugar,  a little  tannin,  fat,  malates,  and  other  salts.  The  odorous  principle  is  a 
colorless  or  yellowish,  sweetish,  light,  and  fragrant  volatile  oil,  which  is  readily  soluble 
in  alcohol  and  dissolves  iodine  without  giving  off  vapors.  Herberger  and  Winckler 
obtained  between  and  per  cent. 

Pharmaceutical  Preparation. — Aqua  tili^:,  Linden-flower  water.  Distil  1 
part  of  linden-flowers  and  sufficient  water  until  4 parts  (10  parts,  P.  G.  1872)  of  dis- 
tillate are  obtained. — F.  Cod. 

Allied  Plants. — Corchorus  capsularis,  C.  olitorius,  Linn6 , and  several  other  species  are 
annual  herbs  of  India,  where  they  are  cultivated  for  their  bast-fibres,  which  are  known  in  com- 
merce as  gunny  and  jute  ; the  fibre  yields  from  1 to  2 per  cent,  of  ash.  The  second  species  is  also 
employed  as  a potherb. 

Uses.— On  the  continent  of  Europe  linden -flowers,  buds,  and  leaves  are  among  the 
most  generally  used  of  domestic  remedies,  in  the  form  of  an  infusion,  to  palliate  painful 
indigestion , nervousness , nervous  headache , and  even  mild  forms  of  hysteria.  For  these 
purposes  it  is  taken  either  cold  or  warm,  according  to  circumstances,  but  in  the  latter 
way  to  dissipate  commencing  catarrhs  of  the  respiratory  passages  and  diarrhoea  occasioned 
by  cold.  The  flowers  are  also  used  in  warm  general  baths  to  allay  nervous  irritability, 
or  a strong  infusion  of  them  is  administered  by  enema  for  similar  purposes.  The  Ameri- 
can species  is  probably  quite  as  operative  as  the  European,  and  both  depend  for  whatever 
virtues  they  possess  upon  their  combined  lenitive  and  stimulant  qualities.  The  agreeable 
smell  and  taste  of  the  infusion  render  it  acceptable  to  the  sick  and  appropriate  as  a 
vehicle  for  more  active  medicines.  The  infusion  is  usually  made  with  the  flowers,  Gm. 
2-4  to  Gm.  500  (gr.  xxx-lx  in  Oj)  of  water. 


TINCTURE. — Tinctures. 

Teintures , Alcooles , Fr. ; Tinkturen , G.  ; Tinturas , Alcoholados , Sp. 

Tinctures  are  solutions  of  medicinal  non-volatile  or  only  partially  volatile  substances 
in  liquids  other  than  water  and  glycerin.  Solutions  of  volatile  substances  in  water  are 
known  as  medicated  waters , and  similar  solutions  in  alcohol  as  spirits.  The  menstrua 
employed  in  the  preparation  of  tinctures  are  alcohols  of  different  strengths,  spirit  of  ether 
or  spirit  of  nitrous  ether,  and  aromatic  spirit  of  ammonia  or  ammoniated  alcohol. 
According  to  the  menstruum  employed,  tinctures  are  distinguished  as  ammoniated , ethe- 
real, and  alcoholic , and  that  class  of  tinctures  in  the  preparation  of  which  diluted  alcohol 
or  a still  weaker  spirit  has  been  used  is  sometimes  designated  as  hydro-alcoholic.  By  far 
the  greatest  number  of  tinctures  are  made  with  an  alcoholic  menstruum.  The  employ- 
ment of  spirit  of  nitrous  ether  in  tinctures  is  confined  to  a few  unofficial  preparations. 

Alcoholic  Menstruum. — Most  tinctures  of  the  United  States  Pharmacopoeia  are 
prepared  with  diluted  alcohol,  of  the  British  Pharmacopoeia  with  proof  spirit,  and  of  the 


TIXCTURJE. 


1603 


French  and  German  Pharmacopoeias  with  alcohol  of  about  60  per  cent.,  or  of  specific 
gravities  0.912  and  0.894.  While  it  is  desirable  to  keep  the  alcoholic  strength  of  tinctures 
as  low  as  possible,  it  is  evidently  improbable  that  one  and  the  same  menstruum  should  be 
equally  well  adapted  for  the  preservation  of  liquid  preparations  of  drugs  having  the  most 
varied  composition ; and  that  improvements  in  this  respect  are  needed  is  shown  by  the 
unsightly  deposits  occurring  in  some  and  the  change  into  gelatinous  masses  observed  in 
other  tinctures.  In  most  cases  these  obvious  changes  are  prevented  by  the  employment 
of  a stronger  alcoholic  menstruum. 

Strength. — The  British  Pharmacopoeia,  as  a rule,  prepares  tinctures  in  such  a manner 
that  1 Imperial  pint  (20  fluidounces)  represents  2?  oz.  av.  of  the  drug,  or  1 part  of  the 
drug  is  used  for  8 measured  parts  of  the  finished  tincture ; the  U.  S.  P.  directs  tinctures 
to  be  made  in  the  proportion  of  5,  10,  15,  and  20  grammes  of  the  air-dried  drug  to 
every  100  Cc.  of  finished  product ; of  these  four  classes  56  tinctures  are  officially 
recognized,  and  in  addition  15  formulas  are  given  for  tinctures  with  varying  proportions 
of  drugs.  The  French  and  German  Pharmacopoeias  prepare  their  tinctures  almost  with- 
out exception  in  such  a manner  that  1 part  of  the  drug  is  represented  by  about  5 or  10 
parts  (by  weight)  of  the  tincture,  either  5 or  10  parts  of  the  menstruum  being  used  for 
extracting  1 part  of  the  drug  by  maceration.  Prepared  in  this  manner,  the  actual  weight 
of  the  tincture  is  equal  to  that  of  the  menstruum  and  of  the  soluble  matter  combined,  so 
that  the  strength  is  only  approximately  as  1 in  5 or  10. 

It  is  to  be  regretted  that  the  tinctures  of  the  different  pharmacopoeias,  or  at  least  those 
prepared  from  potent  drugs,  are  not  of  the  same  composition,  as  will  be  seen  from  the 
following  table,  in  which  no  account  is  taken  of  the  difference  in  the  density  of  the  men- 
struum : 


100  parts  of  tincture  of— 

1 Represent  parts  of  the 
active  drug — 

100  parts  of  tincture  of — 

Represent  parts  of  the 
active  drug — 

By  weight. 

By 

measure. 

By  weight. 

By 

measure. 

u.  s. 

p. 

F. 

Cod. 

P.  G. 

Br.  P. 

u.  s. 

p. 

F. 

Cod. 

P.  G. 

Br.  P. 

Aconitum  (leaves)  .... 

20 

Gentiana  (*  compound)  . 

*10 

20 

20 

*7.5 

“ (root)  .... 

35 

20 

10 

12.5 

Hvoscyamus 

15 

20 

12.5 

Aloes 

10 

20 

2.5 

Iodine 

7 

7.7 

9.1 

2.5 

Arnica  (flowers)  .... 

20 

20 

10 

Kino 

10 

20 

10 

“ (root) 

10 

5 

Krameria  ....... 

20 

20 

20 

12.5 

Asafetida 

20 

20 

12.5 

Lobelia 

20 

20 

10 

12.5 

Belladonna 

15 

20 

5 

Moschus 

5 

10 

2 

Calumba 

10 

20 

12.5 

Myrrh  a 

20 

20 

20 

12.5 

Cannabis  ind.  (herb)  . . . 

25 

20 

Opium 

10 

13 

10 

7.5 

(extract)  . . 

5 

Physostigma 

15 

20 

Cantharides 

5 

10 

10 

1.25 

Pyrethrum 

20 

20 

20 

Capsicum  

5 

10 

3.75 

Quassia 

10 

20 

3.75 

Catechu  (*  with  cinnamon) 

*10 

20 

1 20 

*12.5 

Rheum 

10 

20 

10 

Cinchona  

20 

20 

i 20 

20 

Scilla 

15 

20 

20 

12.5 

Colchicum  (seed)  .... 

15 

20 

10 

12.5 

Stramonium  (*  leaves) 

15 

*20 

12.5 

Conium  (fruit) 

12.5 

Valeriana 

20 

20 

20 

12.5 

(leaves)  .... 

20 

Veratrum  album  .... 

20 

10 

Digitalis 

15 

20 

12.5 

“ viride  .... 

40 

20 

Galla 

20 

20 

20 

12.5 

Zingiber 

20 

20 

20 

12.5 

Preparation. — Tinctures  of  resins,  oleoresins,  balsams,  and  of  most  gum-resins  and 
extractive  drugs  are  best  prepared  by  maceration.  Nearly  all  other  drugs  are  conve- 
niently extracted  by  percolation,  which  process  is  fully  described  on  pages  639,  etc.,  and 
if  the  process  is  properly  conducted  the  drug  will  be  practically  exhausted  long  before 
the  requisite  amount  of  tincture  has  been  obtained.  The  chief  objections  that  can  be 
raised  against  this  process  are,  that  the  manipulation  must  vary  with  the  nature  of  the 
drug,  and  that  a certain  amount  of  alcohol  will  be  retained  in  the  powder.  The  former 
is  of  no  weight  with  the  pharmacist,  who  recognizes  his  duty  of  intimately  acquainting 
himself  with  the  characteristics  and  peculiarities  of  each  drug  passing  through  his  hands  ; 
and  the  second  objection  will  be  of  little  moment  if  weaker  menstrua  are  gradually  and 
judiciously  employed,  as  indicated  on  page  643. 

The  British  Pharmacopoeia  avoids  the  second  objection  by  expressing  the  contents  of 
the  percolator  as  soon  as  the  requisite  quantity  of  menstruum  has  been  used.  In  most 
of  its  formulas  the  preparation  of  a pint  (Imperial)  of  tincture  is  directed,  and  the  follow- 
ing explains  the  manipulations  which  have  been  adopted  : Macerate  the  material  for  forty- 


1604 


TINCTURE  HERB  A RUM  RECENTIUM. 


eight  hours  in  15  fluidounces  of  the  menstruum  in  a closed  vessel,  agitating  occasionally  ; 
then  transfer  to  a percolator,  and  when  the  fluid  ceases  to  pass  continue  the  percolation 
with  the  remaining  5 ounces  of  the  menstruum.  Afterward  subject  the  contents  of  the 
percolator  to  pressure,  filter  the  product,  mix  the  liquids,  and  add  sufficient  menstruum 
to  make  1 pint. 

The  German  Pharmacopoeia  prepares  all  tinctures  by  maceration.  The  drugs,  either 
coarsely  powdered  or  cut  into  thin  slices,  and  the  menstruum  are  introduced  into  a bot- 
tle, which  should  be  only  partly  filled,  so  as  to  permit  the  frequent  agitation  of  the  con- 
tents: after  macerating  in  a shady  place  at  about  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  for  a week,  the  liquid 
is  decanted  and  the  residue  subjected  to  pressure ; the  liquids  thus  obtained  are  mixed, 
set  aside  for  a day  or  two,  and  then  filtered,  care  being  taken  to  prevent  the  evaporation 
of  alcohol.  The  liquid  which  remains  absorbed  in  the  drug  is  not  replaced. 

The  French  Codex  directs  its  tinctures  to  be  made  by  maceration  or  by  displacement. 
For  the  latter  process  the  directions  are  similar  to  those  of  the  United  States  Pharmaco- 
poeia, except  that  the  powder  is  ordered  to  he  of  medium  fineness  and  is  not  moistened 
previous  to  its  introduction  into  the  percolator. 

Ethereal  Tinctures — Etheroles,  F.  Cod. — are  not  recognized  by  the  U.  S.  P.,  and 
only  one  has  been  admitted  by  the  Br.  P.  (lobelia)  and  by  the  P.  G.  (valeriana),  both 
using  spirit  of  ether  for  the  menstruum.  For  eight  ethereal  tinctures  of  the  French 
Codex  a menstruum  containing  more  ether  is  used ; it  is  designated  Ether  a 0.758,  and  is 
prepared  by  mixing  3 parts  of  alcohol  with  7 parts  of  ether  spec.  grav.  0.724.  These  tinc- 
tures are  prepared  by  maceration  or  displacement,  provision  being  made  to  prevent  evapor- 
ation of  the  ether. 

Preservation. — All  tinctures  should  be  perfect  solutions,  and  to  retain  them  entirely 
transparent  the  evaporation  of  the  volatile  portions  should  he  prevented.  Tinctures  are 
best  kept  in  well-stoppered  bottles,  in  a room  where  the  temperature  is  not  subject  to 
great  variations,  and  where  they  are  not  exposed  to  the  direct  sunlight.  The  size  of  the 
bottles  should  be  adapted  to  the  quantities  of  the  tincture  that  are  likely  to  be  used 
within  a reasonable  length  of  time. 

TINCTURE  HERBARUM  RECENTIUM,  U.  S.— Tinctures  of  Fresh 

Herbs. 

Alcoolaturse, , F.  Cod. ; Alcoolatures , Fr. ; Tinkturen  von  frischen  Pflanzen , G. 

Tinctures  made  from  fresh  herbs  were,  to  some  extent,  prepared  more  than  two  hun- 
dred years  ago,  but  were  more  prominently  introduced  by  Hahnemann,  and  are  exten- 
sively employed  in  homoeopathic  practice.  They  have  attracted  more  or  less  attention  in 
Europe  since  about  1817,  when  Schrader  (Buchnevas  Repertorinm , iii.  20)  made  a number 
of  investigations,  and  recommended  such  tinctures  prepared  from  the  fresh  juice  and 
twice  its  weight  of  alcohol.  A similar  method  was  subsequently  advocated  by  Beral  and 
by  Deschamps,  while  Soubeiran  suggested  the  use  of  the  fresh  plants  and  their  macera- 
tion with  strong  alcohol  in  definite  proportions.  This  method  was  adopted  in  the  French 
Codex  of  1866,  and  has  been  retained  in  that  of  1884.  Tinctures  made  from  fresh  herbs 
have  been  retained  in  the  new  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia,  which,  however,  gives  only  a gene- 
ral formula. 

Preparation. — “ These  tinctures,  when  not  otherwise  directed,  are  to  he  prepared  by 
the  following  formula : Take  of  the  fresh  herb,  bruised  or  crushed,  500  Gm.  ; alcohol 
1000  Cc.  Macerate  the  herb  with  the  alcohol  for  fourteen  days  ; then  express  the  liquid 
and  filter.” — U.  S. 

This  is  essentially  the  formula  for  preparing  the  third  class  of  tinctures  of  the  Homoeo- 
pathic Pharmacopoeia.  The  French  Codex  directs  equal  parts  of  the  fresh  drug  and  of 
90  per  cent,  alcohol,  the  maceration  to  be  continued  for  ten  days  ; in  this  manner  alcoola- 
tures are  prepared  from  aconite-leaves  and  root,  arnica-flowers,  belladonna-leaves  and  root, 
bryony,  colchicum-flowers  and  root,  conium-leaves,  digitalis-leaves,  drosera  (entire  plant), 
eucalyptus-leaves,  hyoscyamus-leaves,  pulsatilla  (flowering  herb),  spilanthes-flowers,  and 
stramonium-leaves. 

It  is  evident  that  these  preparations  must  vary  in  strength  at  least  to  the  same  extent 
as  juices  (see  p.  1534),  and  that  they  are  of  doubtful  utility,  except  perhaps  for  such 
drugs  which,  like  the  leaves  of  Rhus  Toxicodendron,  owe  their  virtues  to  very  volatile 
uncombined  principles. 


TINCTURA  A CONTTI.— TINCTURA  ALOES  ET  MYRRH jE. 


1605 


TINCTURA  ACONITI,  V.  S.,  Br.,  P.  G. — Tincture  of  Aconite. 

Tinctura  aconiti  radicis , P.  A. — Tincture  of  aconite-root , E. ; Teinture  de  racine  d'aconit , 
Fr. ; Eisenliuttinktur , G. 

Preparation. — Aconite,  in  No.  60  powder,  350  Gm. ; Alcohol,  Water,  each  a suffi- 
cient quantity ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  alcohol  and  water  in  the  proportion  of  700  Cc. 
of  alcohol  to  300  Cc.  of  water.  Having  moistened  the  powder  with  200  Cc.  of  men- 
struum, macerate  for  twenty-four  hours ; then  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  glass  perco- 
lator, and  gradually  pour  menstruum  upon  it  until  1000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained. — 
U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  aconite  use  11  av.  ozs.  and  300  grains  of  powdered 
aconite-root  and  moisten  with  6 fluidounces  of  the  menstruum  (alcohol  7 volumes,  water 
3 volumes). 

Aconite-root  2\  oz.  av.,  alcohol  (sp.  gr.  0.838)  sufficient  to  make  1 Imperial  pint  (20 
fluidounces). — Br. 

Aconite-root  20  parts,  alcohol  (sp.  gr.  0.912)  100  parts. — F.  Cod. 

Aconite-root  10  parts,  alcohol  (sp.  gr.  0.894)  100  parts. — P.  G. 

The  selection  of  efficient  root  and  its  careful  percolation  are  of  the  utmost  importance. 
The  tincture  is  of  a yellowish-brown  color,  and  on  the  addition  of  water  becomes  milky 
from  the  precipitation  of  resin.  Formerly  tincture  of  aconite-leaves  (2  troyounces  to  1 pint 
of  diluted  alcohol)  was  official  ; it  was  much  weaker  than  the  present  tincture,  and  could 
be  given  in  larger  doses. 

Fleming’s  Tincture  of  Aconite  is  still  prescribed  by  some  physicians  ; it  is  prepared 
by  carefully  percolating  10  troyounces  of  powdered  aconite-root  with  sufficient  alcohol 
to  obtain  15  fluidounces  of  tincture.  Since  the  introduction  of  the  very  efficient  official 
fluid  extract  of  aconite  there  seems  no  longer  to  be  any  necessity  for  this  tincture. 

Uses. — The  medicinal  and  poisonous  actions  of  aconite  have  been  discussed  elsewhere. 
The  tincture  is  the  preparation  most  frequently  employed  in  medicine.  The  close  is  Gm. 
0.06-0.30  (ny— v). 

TINCTURA  ALOES,  U.  S.,  Br. — Tincture  of  Aloes. 

Teinture  T aloes , Fr. ; Aloetinktur , G.;  Tintura  de  Acibar , Sp. 

Preparation. — Purified  Aloes,  in  No.  40  powder,  100  Gm. ; Liquorice-root,  in  No. 
40  powder,  200  Gm. ; Diluted  Alcohol,  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  the 
powders,  and,  having  moistened  the  mixture  with  80  Cc.  of  diluted  alcohol,  macerate  for 
twenty-four  hours  ; then  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator,  and  gradually  pour 
diluted  alcohol  upon  it  until  1000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  aloes  use  3 av.  ozs.  and  148  grains  of  purified  aloes  and 
6 av.  ozs.  and  296  grains  of  powdered  liquorice-root  and  moisten  the  mixed  powders  with 
2\  fluidounces  of  the  menstruum  (diluted  alcohol). 

The  formulas  of  other  pharmacopoeias  require — Socotrine  aloes  ? ounce,  extract  of 
liquorice  1J  ounces  (av.),  proof  spirit  sufficient  for  1 pint  (Imperial). — Br.  Aloes  1 
part,  alcohol  (sp.  gr.  0.912)  5 parts. — F.  Cod.  Aloes  1 part,  alcohol  (sp.  gr.  0.832)  5 
parts. — P.  G. 

The  tincture  has  a dark  blackish-brown  color  and  a very  bitter  taste. 

Uses. — This  preparation  is  rarely  used  as  a purgative,  for  which  purpose  not  less  than 
Gm.  16  (£  an  ounce)  of  it  would  be  necessary.  As  a laxative  Gm.  4-8  (f^j—  ij)  may  be 
taken  after  food.  It  has  been  applied  topically  as  a dressing  for  indolent  ulcers , excoria- 
tions, bed-sores , fissures , and  cutaneous  eruptions.  It  enters  into  various  preparations  of 
old  repute  for  their  virtues  in  such  affections — e.  g.  Turlington’s  balsam,  friars’  balsam, 
etc. — and  has  more  recently  been  employed  for  similar  purposes  with  glycerin,  by  evapor- 
ating from  4 to  8 parts  of  the  tincture  of  aloes,  and  then  gradually  adding  30  parts  of 
glycerin. 

TINCTURA  ALOES  ET  MYRRHS,  U.  S. — Tincture  of  Aloes  and 

Myrrh. 

Elixir  proprietatis  Paracelsi. — Elixir  de  propriety , Fr. ) Aloeelixir , G. 

Preparation. — Purified  Aloes,  100  Gm.  ; Myrrh  100  Gm. ; Liquorice-root,  in  No.  40 
powder,  100  Gm. ; Alcohol,  Water,  each  a sufficient  quantity ; to  make  1 000  Cc..  Mix  alco- 
hol and  water  in  the  proportion  of  750  Cc.  of  alcohol  to  250  Cc.  of  water.  Having  mixed 


1606  TINCTTJRA  ARNICA?  FLOR UM. — TINCTURA  ARNICA  RADICIS. 


the  aloes,  myrrh,  and  liquorice-root,  reduce  them  to  a No.  40  powder.  Moisten  the  pow- 
der with  60  Cc.  of  the  menstruum,  and  macerate  for  twenty-four  hours  ; then  pack  it 
moderately  in  a cylindrical  percolator,  and  gradually  pour  menstruum  upon  it  until  1000 
Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  aloes  and  myrrh  use  3 av.  ozs.  and  148  grains  each  of 
purified  aloes,  myrrh,  and  liquorice-root,  and  moisten  the  mixed  powders  with  2 fluid- 
ounces  of  the  menstruum  (alcohol  3 volumes,  water  1 volume). 

This  preparation  has  been  dropped  from  the  other  pharmacopoeias  ; that  of  the  P.  G. 
1812  was  four-fifths  of  the  above  strength,  and  contained  also  4 per  cent,  of  saffron  and  8 
per  cent,  of  diluted  sulphuric  acid  sp.  gr.  1.115. 

The  color  of  this  tincture  is  deep  reddish-brown  ; if  prepared  with  saffron,  it  is  of  a rich 
orange-brown.  It  is  precipitated  by  water. 

In  this  connection  should  be  mentioned  the  following  preparation,  which  has  long 
enjoyed  considerable  reputation  on  the  continent  of  Europe  : 

Tinctura  aloes  composita,  P.  G.  ; Elixir  ad  longam  vitam,  Elixir  suedicum. — Com- 
pound tincture  of  aloes,  Swedish  bitters,  E.  ; Elixir  de  longue  vie,  Elixir  suedois,  Fr. ; 
Lebenselixir,  G. — Aloes  6 parts,  and  gentian,  rhubarb,  zedoary,  and  saffron,  each  1 part, 
are  macerated  for  a week  with  200  parts  of  alcohol  sp.  gr.  0.894  ; the  tincture  is  expressed 
and  filtered. — P.  G.  The  formula  of  the  French  Codex  reduces  the  aloes  to  4 parts, 
the  other  ingredients  to  1 part,  and  adds  i part  each  of  agaric  and  of  confection  of 
opium. 

Uses. — As  a purgative  capable  of  especially  stimulating  the  pelvic  organs  this  prep- 
aration has  been  employed  under  the  name  of  Elixir  proprietatis  ever  since  it  was 
invented  by  Paracelsus,  and  also  as  peculiarly  fitting  for  constipation  in  females  when 
associated  with  amenorrhoea  or  irregular  menstruation.  But  this  state  is  commonly  a 
result  of  general  atony,  and  can  only  be  radically  cured  by  remedies  addressed  to  the 
general  system.  The  dose  is  Gm.  4-8  fej-ij). 

TINCTURA  ARNIC^E  FLORUM,  U.  S. — Tincture  of  Arnica-flowers. 

Tinctura  arnica z,  P.  G. — Teinture  de  jleur  d’ arnica,  Fr. ; Arnikatinktur,  G. 

Preparation. — Arnica-flowers,  in  No.  20  powder,  200  Gm. ; Diluted  Alcohol  a suf- 
ficient quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Pack  the  powder  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator, 
and  gradually  pour  diluted  alcohol  upon  it  until  1000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  arnica-flowers  use  6 av.  ozs.  and  296  grains  of  pow- 
dered arnica-flowers. 

Arnica-flowers  20  parts,  alcohol  (sp.  grav.  .912)  100  parts. — F.  Cod. 

Arnica-flowers  10  parts,  alcohol  (sp.  grav.  .894)  100  parts. — P.  G. 

The  first  formula  yields  a yellowish-brown  tincture  of  a darker  tint  than  the  other  two 
and  that  of  the  U.  S.  P.  1870,  a less  alcoholic  menstruum  being  now  employed,  which 
extracts  more  of  the  extractive  matter,  but  probably  less  of  the  resinous  and  oily  con- 
stituents. The  present  tincture  becomes  less  opalescent  with  water  than  one  prepared 
with  a stronger  alcoholic  menstruum. 

Uses. — In  Germany  tincture  of  arnica  is  universally  employed  as  the  sovereign 
domestic  remedy  for  wounds , bruises , and  all  manner  of  local  pains , which  it  benefits 
through  the  alcohol  as  well  as  by  the  essential  oil  that  it  contains.  It  is  applied  diluted 
with  water  as  a lotion  or  upon  compresses ; it  is  not  often  prescribed  internally,  but  may 
be  given  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.60-4  (gtt.  x-lx). 

TINCTURA  ARNICA  RADICIS,  U.  S.— Tincture  of  Arnica-root. 

Tinctura  arnicas , Br. ; Teinture  de  racine  d' arnica,  Fr. ; Arnikawurzeltinktur,  G. 

Preparation. — Arnica-root,  in  No.  40  powder,  100  Gm. ; Alcohol,  Water,  each  a 
sufficient  quantity;  to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  alcohol  and  water  in  the  proportion  of  650 
Cc.  of  alcohol  to  350  Cc.  of  water.  Moisten  the  powder  with  150  Cc.  of  the  menstruum 
and  macerate  for  twenty-four  hours  ; then  pack  it  moderately  in  a cylindrical  percolator, 
and  gradually  pour  menstruum  upon  it  until  1000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  arnica-root  use  3 av.  ozs.  and  148  grains  of  powdered 
arnica-root,  and  moisten  the  same  with  41  fluidounces  of  the  menstruum  (alcohol  65  vol- 
umes, water  35  volumes).  jfl 

Arnica-root  1 oz.  av.,  alcohol  (sp.  gr.  0.838)  sufficient  to  make  1 Imperial  pint  (20  fluid- 
ounces). — Br. 


TINCTURA  ASAFCETID^E— TINCTURA  A UR  A NTII  DULCIS. 


1607 


The  first  formula  yields  a darker-colored  tincture  than  that  of  the  B.  P.,  due  not  merely 
to  the  larger  amount  of  drug  used,  but  on  account  of  the  reduced  alcoholic  strength  of  the 
menstruum,  which  is  nearly  the  same  as  that  used  for  the  fluid  extract. 

Uses. — The  German  Pharmacopoeia  does  not  contain  any  tincture  of  arnica-root,  and 
it  is  difficult  to  understand  why  the  American  should  be  so  encumbered.  The  dose  may 
be  stated  as  about  the  same  as  that  of  the  tincture  of  the  flowers. 


TINCTURA  ASAFCETIEEE,  77.  S.,  Br. — Tincture  of  Asafetida. 

Tinctura  asse  foetidse.  P.  G. — Teinture  dJ  asafoetida  t Fr.  ; Asanttinktur , G. 

Preparation. — Asafetida,  bruised,  200  Gm.  ; Alcohol  a sufficient  quantity ; to  make 
1000  Cc.  Mix  the  asafetida  with  800  Cc.  of  alcohol,  and  macerate  for  seven  days  in  a 
closed  vessel ; then  filter  through  paper,  adding,  through  the  filter,  enough  alcohol  to 
make  the  tincture  measure  1000  Cc. — TJ.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  asafetida  macerate  6 av.  ozs.  and  296  grains  of  bruised 
asafetida  with  26  fluidounces  of  alcohol  for  a week,  and  after  filtration  wash  the  filter 
with  sufficient  menstruum  to  bring  the  volume  up  to  32  fluidounces. 

The  proportions  of  other  pharmacopoeias  are — Asafoetida  2\  oz.  av.,  rectified 
spirit  sufficient  for  1 pint  (Imperial). — Br.  Asafoetida  1 part,  alcohol  5 parts. — F. 
Cod.,  P.  G. 

The  tincture  nearly  agrees  with  those  of  the  French  and  German  Pharmacopoeias.  It 
has  a yellowish  brown-red  color  and  is  rendered  milky  on  the  addition  of  water. 

Tinctura  atherea  asafoetida:  ( Tinctura  etere  de  asafetida , Sp.).  Asafetida  2 parts, 
ether  7 parts,  alcohol  3 parts. — F.  Cod. 

Uses. — Owing  to  its  repulsive  taste,  tincture  of  asafetida  is  seldom  given  by  the  mouth, 
although  the  dose  is  commonly  stated  to  be  from  Gm.  2—4  (f^ss-j).  It  is  more  conve- 
nient and  useful  in  an  enema,  with  water  alone  or  with  other  appropriate  adjuncts,  for  the 
relief  of  intestinal  flatulence  and  for  obtaining  the  influence  of  the  drug  in  hysterical 
attacks.  From  Gm.  16—32  (f^ss-j)  may  be  used  in  this  manner. 

TINCTURA  AURANTH  AMARI,  77.  8.,  B.  A. — Tincture  of  Bitter 

Orange-peel. 

Tinctura  aurantii , Br.  ; P.  G. — Tincture  of  orange-peel  E.  ; Teinture  d' orange  amere, 
Fr. ; Ponieranzentinktur , G, 

Preparation. — Bitter  Orange-peel,  in  No.  30  powder,  200  Gm. : Alcohol,  Water, 
each  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  alcohol  and  water  in  the  proportion 
of  600  Cc.  of  alcohol  to  400  Cc.  of  water.  Moisten  the  powder  with  200  Cc.  of  the  men- 
struum and  macerate  for  twenty-four  hours  ; then  pack  it  moderately  in  a cylindrical  per- 
colator, and  gradually  pour  menstruum  upon  it  until  1000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained. — 
U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  bitter  orange-peel  use  6 av.  ozs.  and  296  grains  of 
powdered  bitter  orange-peel,  and  moisten  with  6 fluidounces  of  menstruum  (alcohol  6 
volumes,  water  4 volumes). 

Other  pharmacopoeias  direct : Bitter  orange-peel  2 ounces  (av.),  proof  spirit  sufficient  for 
1 pint  (Imperial). — Br.  Bitter  orange-peel  1 part ; macerated  with  5 parts  of  alcohol 
spec.  grav.  0.863. — F.  Cod.  (spec.  grav.  0.894,  P.  G.). 

Uses. — Tincture  of  bitter  orange-peel  is  employed  almost  exclusively  as  a flavoring 
ingredient  of  mixtures.  The  dose  is  Gm.  4-8  (f;5j-ij). 


TINCTURA  AURANTH  DULCIS,  77.  S. — Tincture  of  Sweet  Orange- 

peel. 


Teinture  d' orange  douce , Fr. ; Apfelsinenschaalentinktur,  G. 

Preparation. — Sweet  Orange-peel,  taken  from  the  fresh  fruit,  200  Gm.  ; Alcohol 
a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  orange-peel  (which  should  be  as  free  as 
possible  from  the  inner  white  layer),  previously  cut  into  small  pieces,  with  800  Cc.  of 
alcohol,  and  macerate  for  twenty-four  hours ; then  pack  it  moderately  in  a conical  perco- 
lator, and  gradually  pour  alcohol  upon  it  until  1000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained. — 
U.  aS. 


To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  sweet  orange-peel  macerate  6 av.  ozs.  and  296  grains  of 
fine  cut  fresh  sweet  orange-peel  (deprived  of  the  inner  white  layer)  with  26  fluidounces  of 
alcohol,  and  finally  percolate  with  sufficient  menstruum  to  make  32  fluidounces. 


1608 


TINCTURA  AURA NTII  RECENTTS.—TINCTURA  BENZOINI. 


By  careful  grating  the  yellow  rind  of  fresh  oranges  is  easily  removed,  and  at  once 
obtained  in  a suitable  condition  for  preparing  the  tincture,  which  has  a yellow  color  and  a 
very  agreeable  odor. 

TINCTURA  AURANTII  RECENTIS,  Br. — Tincture  of  Fresh  Orange- 

peel. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Bitter  Orange,  Rectified  Spirit,  each  a sufficiency.  Care- 
fully cut  from  the  orange  the  colored  part  of  the  rind  in  thin  slices,  and  macerate  6 ounces 
of  this  in  18  fl.  oz.  of  the  spirit  for  a week,  with  frequent  agitation.  Then  pour  off  the 
liquid,  press  the  dregs,  mix  the  liquid  products,  and  filter ; finally,  add  sufficient  spirit  to 
make  1 pint  (Imperial). — Br. 

Uses. — The  tincture  of  fresh  orange-peel  contains  a larger  proportion  of  the  volatile 
oil  and  has  a more  agreeable  flavor  than  that  made  from  the  dry  rind  of  the  bitter  orange. 
The  dose  is  Gm.  4-8  (f^i— ij). 

TINCTURA  BELLADONNA  FOLIORUM,  U.  Tincture  of  Bella- 
donna-leaves. 

Tinctura  belladonna,  U.  S.  1880,  Br.,  P.  A. — Tincture  of  belladonna,  E.  ; Teinture  de 
belladone,  Fr. ; Belladonnatinktur , G. 

Preparation. — Belladonna-leaves,  in  No.  60  powder,  150  Gm. ; Diluted  Alcohol  a 
sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  200  Cc.  of  diluted  alco- 
hol, and  macerate  for  twenty-four  hours  ; then  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator, 
and  gradually  pour  diluted  alcohol  upon  it  until  1000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  belladonna  use  5 av.  ozs.  of  powdered  belladonna- 
leaves,  and  moisten  with  6J  fluidounces  of  menstruum  (diluted  alcohol). 

The  proportions  directed  by  other  pharmacopoeias  are — Belladonna-leaves  1 ounce  (av.), 
proof  spirit  sufficient  for  1 pint  (Imperial). — Br.  Belladonna-leaves  1 part,  alcohol  (sp. 
gr.  0.912)  5 parts. — F.  Cod. 

This  tincture  differs  very  little  in  strength  from  that  of  the  U.  S.  P.  1880.  The  color 
is  greenish-brown  or  brown-green,  according  to  the  strength  of  the  alcohol. 

Tinctura  atherea  belladonna.  Belladonna-leaves  2 parts,  ether  7 parts,  alcohol 
3 parts. — F.  Cod. 

Uses. — The  dose  of  this  tincture  is  about  Gm.  0.50  (npvij),  representing  1 grain  of 

the  leaves. 


TINCTURA  BENZOINI,  TJ.  S . — Tincture  of  Benzoin. 

Tinctura  benzoes,  P.  G. — Teinture  de  benjoin,  Fr. ; Benzoetinktur,  G. ; Tinctura  de  benjui,  Sp. 

Preparation. — Benzoin,  in  moderately  coarse  powder,  200  Gm. ; Alcohol  a sufficient 
quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  powder  with  800  Cc.  of  alcohol,  and  macerate  for 
seven  days  in  a closed  vessel ; then  filter  through  paper,  adding,  through  the  filter,  enough 
alcohol  to  make  the  tincture  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  benzoin  macerate  6 av.  ozs.  and  296  grains  of  coarsely 
powdered  benzoin  with  26  fluidounces  of  alcohol  for  seven  days  and  filter ; finally  wash 
the  filter  with  sufficient  alcohol  to  obtain  32  fluidounces. 

Macerate  benzoin  1 part  in  alcohol  5 parts. — F.  Cod.,  P.  G. 

The  tincture  is  brownish-red,  and  yields  with  water  a milky  mixture  having  an  acid 
reaction. 

Lac  virginis — Virgin’s  milk,  E. ; Lait  virginal,  Fr. ; Jungfernmilch,  G. — is  a cos- 
metic preparation  consisting  of  tincture  of  benzoin  1 part  and  rose-water  from  20  to  100 
parts. 

Uses. — The  tincture  of  benzoin  was  formerly  in  more  general  use  than  at  present, 
both  internally  and  externally.  By  the  former  method  it  was  employed  in  chronic  mucous 
proflu  via  of  the  bronchial  and  urinary  organs , and  even  in  chronic  diarrhoea  and  dysentery  ; 
in  the  same  cases,  in  short,  for  which  copaiba  has  more  recently  been  recommended.  As 
a local  application  by  means  of  the  atomizer  it  may  sometimes  be  administered  with 
benefit  in  chronic  laryngeal  and  bronchial  catarrh.  Externally,  it  is  useful  both  as  a 
stimulant  and  a protective  for  ulcers,  and  even  for  slight  fresh  wounds.  But  it  is  more 
applicable  to  irritable  and  indolent  sores,  as  bed-sores,  ulcers  tending  to  gangrene,  sore 
nipples,  chapped  hands  and  lips,  and  to  slight  lesions  of  the  same  sort  about  the  anus. 
Mixed  with  water  or  rose-water,  it  may  be  used  to  remove  freckles  and  slight  papular 


TINCTURA  BENZOINI  COM  POSIT  A .— TINCTURA  BRYONIJE. 


1609 


and  other  eruptions , as  well  as  to  preserve  the  freshness  and  suppleness  of  the  skin.  It 
is  the  medicinal  ingredient  of  the  usual  forms  of  court  plaster,  and  too  often  renders 
this  preparation  irritating  rather  than  healing.  The  dose  of  tincture  of  benzoin  is  Gm. 
2-4  (f^ss-j). 

TINCTURA  BENZOINI  COMPOSITA,  V.  S.,  Br.—  Compound  Tincture 

of  Benzoin. 

Tinctura  balsamica , F.  Cod.;  Bcilsamum  comm e n datoris , Elixir  traumaticum. — Teinture 
balsamique , Baume  du  commandeur  de  Permes , Fr. ; Persischer  Wundbalsam,  G. 

Preparation. — Benzoin,  in  coarse  powder,  120  Gm. ; Purified  Aloes,  in  coarse 
powder,  20  Gm. ; Storax  80  Gm. ; Balsam  of  Tolu  40  Gm. ; Alcohol  a sufficient  quan- 
tity ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  benzoin,  aloes,  storax,  and  balsam  of  Tolu  with  800 
Cc.  of  alcohol,  and  digest  the  mixture,  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  65°  C.  (149°  F.), 
for  two  hours  in  a closed  vessel ; then  filter  through  paper,  adding,  through  the  filter, 
enough  alcohol  to  make  the  tincture  measure  1000  Cc. — TJ.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  compound  tincture  of  benzoin  macerate  for  seven  days  in  26  fluid- 
ounces  of  alcohol  4 av.  ozs.  and  152  grains  of  benzoin,  309  grains  of  purified  aloes,  2 av. 
ozs.  and  359  grains  of  storax,  and  1 av.  oz.  and  180  grains  of  balsam  of  Tolu  and  filter ; 
finally  wash  the  filter  with  sufficient  alcohol  to  make  32  fluidounces. 

Take  of  benzoin,  in  coarse  powder,  2 ounces;  prepared  storax  11  ounces;  balsam  of 
Tolu  I ounce  (av.)  ; Socotrine  aloes  160  grains;  rectified  spirit  sufficient  for  1 pint 
(Imperial).  Macerate  for  seven  days  and  filter. — Br. 

St.  Johnswort  2 parts;  angelica-root,  myrrh,  olibanum,  and  aloes,  of  each  1 part;  bal- 
sam of  Tolu  and  benzoin,  of  each  6 parts ; alcohol  (spec.  grav.  0.863)  72  parts. — F.  Cod. 

The  older  pharmacopoeias  had  still  more  complicated  formulas. 

The  tincture  is  intended  to  take  the  place  of  numerous  preparations  formerly  employed, 
as  Wade's,  Vervain  s,  Saint  Victor's , Jesuits' , Friars' , Turlington  s,  Persian , and  Swedish 
balsajn.  It  is  of  a deep  red-brown  color,  and  yields  with  water  a reddish-white  opaque 
mixture  having  an  acid  reaction. 

Uses. — The  uses  of  the  compound  tincture  are  essentially  the  same  as  those  of  the 
simple  tincture  of  benzoin,  but  the  former  is  in  most  cases  the  more  efficient  of  the  two. 
Especially  is  this  true  of  its  use  in  affections  of  the  air-passages  and  lesions  of  the  skin. 
For  such  ailments  it  was  for  centuries  in  high  repute  under  various  names,  as  friars’ 
balsam,  Turlington’s  balsam,  etc.,  until  it  was  displaced  by  the  influence  of  doctrinal 
principles  in  therapeutics.  Those  who  considered  the  cure  of  disease  of  more  conse- 
quence than  the  justification  of  a doctrine  adhered  to  its  use,  and  the  medicine  survived 
the  theory.  It  is  needless  to  particularize  all  the  cases  in  which  this  preparation  may  be 
beneficially  used ; they  are,  as  already  stated,  those  mentioned  under  the  head  of  the 
simple  tincture.  The  dose  is  Gm.  2-4  (f^ss-j). 

The  compound  is  far  more  efficient  than  the  simple  tincture  as  an  application  to  the 
various  ulcerative  lesions  mentioned  in  the  article  upon  that  preparation,  and  especially 
to  bed-sores.  After  cleansing  and  drying  the  sore  it  should  be  thoroughly  covered  with 
the  tincture,  over  which  should  be  laid  two  thicknesses  of  fresh  cotton  wadding  extend- 
ing far  beyond  the  sore,  and  the  whole  supported  by  a broad  bandage.  The  application 
is  for  a short  time  painful,  but  it  should  be  removed  at  intervals  of  two  or  more  days, 
care  being  taken  at  each  dressing  to  remove  any  dead  tissue  that  is  loose  (Woodman). 

TINCTURA  BRYONLE,  TJ.  S. — Tincture  of  Bryonia. 

Teinture  de  bryone  blanche , Fr. ; Zaunriibentinktur , G. 

Preparation. — Bryonia,  recently  dried  and  in  No.  40  powder,  100  Gm. ; Alcohol  a 
sufficient  quantity ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  100  Cc.  of  alcohol,  and 
macerate  for  twenty-four  hours ; then  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator,  and 
gradually  pour  alcohol  upon  it  until  1000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  bryony  use  3 av.  ozs.  and  148  grains  of  powdered  bry- 
ony-root, and  moisten  with  31  fluidounces  of  the  menstruum  (alcohol). 

This  tincture  is  not  recognized  by  the  other  pharmacopoeias ; it  has  a brown-yellow 
color,  is  destitute  of  any  characteristic  odor,  and  has  a somewhat  bitter  taste.  Since 
bryony  does  not  grow  in  North  America,  it  will  be  difficult  to  comply  with  the  pharma- 
copoeial  directions  of  using  the  “ recently-dried  ” root.  The  bitter  principle,  bryonin,  is 
soluble  in  water ; hence  diluted  alcohol  would  seem  to  be  an  equally  effective  menstruum. 

Uses. — This  drastic  purgative  may  be  prescribed  in  doses  of  Gin.  1-4  (n^xv-lx). 


1610 


TINCTURA  B UCH U. — TINCTURA  CANNABIS  INDICAE. 


TINCTURA  BUCHU,  ^.—Tincture  of  Buchu. 

Teinture  de  buchu , Fr. ; Buchutinktur , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Bucliu-leaves,  in  No.  20  powder,  2\  ounces  (av.)  ; Proof 
Spirit  1 pint  (Imperial).  Prepare  the  tincture  by  maceration,  as  described  under  Tinc- 
ture.— Br.  Buchu  1 part,  alcohol  (sp.  gr.  0.83b)  5 parts. — F.  Cod. 

The  first  tincture  has  a greenish-brown,  the  second  a brownish-green,  color ; both  have 
the  odor  and  taste  of  the  drug. 

Uses. — A medicine  intended  to  allay  irritated  conditions  of  the  urinary  passages 
should  seldom  be  prepared  with  alcohol,  or  if  it  is  so  it  should  be  administered  in  a large, 
proportion  of  water.  The  convenience  of  dispensing  buchu  under  certain  circumstances 
may  justify  this  preparation,  but  on  purely  therapeutical  grounds  it  is  ineligible.  The 
dose  of  the  tincture  is  Gm.  4—8  (f^j-^ij)- 

TINCTURA  CALENDULA,  77.  S. — Tincture  of  Calendula. 

Tincture  of  marigold , E.  ; Teinture  de  souci , Fr. ; Calendulatinktur , G. 

Preparation. — Calendula,  in  No.  20  powder,  200  Gm. ; Alcohol  a sufficient  quan- 
tity ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  200  Cc.  of  alcohol,  and  macerate  for 
twenty-four  hours ; then  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator,  and  gradually  pour 
alcohol  upon  it  until  1000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  calendula  use  6 av.  ozs.  and  296  grains  of  powdered 
calendula,  and  moisten  with  6?  fluidounces  of  menstruum  (alcohol). 

This,  like  Tinctura  bryoniae,  is  not  recognized  by  other  pharmacopoeias.  It  should  be 
remembered  that  the  Pharmacopoeia  defines  calendula  to  be  the  fresh  flowering  herb,  and 
that  two  cultivated  species  of  Tagetes  are  likewise  popularly  known  as  marigold  (see 
page  377).  The  intention  seems  to  be  that  calendula,  freshly  gathered,  should  be  at  once 
dried,  powdered,  and  converted  into  tincture. 

Uses. — Considering  the  deobstruent  virtues  attributed  to  calendula,  alcohol  does  not 
appear  to  be  an  appropriate  vehicle  for  its  administration.  The  tincture,  however,  is  con- 
venient as  an  application  to  sprains , bruises , etc. 

TINCTURA  CALUMBiE,  77.  S.,  Br. — Tincture  of  Calumba. 

Tinctura  Colombo. — Teinture  de  Colombo , Fr. ; Kolombotinhtur , G. 

Preparation. — Calumba,  in  No.  20  powder,  100  Gm. ; Alcohol,  Water,  each  a suffi- 
cient quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  alcohol  and  water  in  the  proportion  of  600  Cc.  of 
alcohol  to  400  Cc.  of  water,  and,  having  moistened  the  powder  with  100  Cc.  of  the  mix- 
ture, macerate  for  twenty-four  hours  ; then  pack  it  in  a cylindrical  percolator,  and  gradu- 
ally pour  menstruum  upon  it  until  1000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained. — TJ.  JS. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  calumba  use  3 av.  ozs.  and  148  grains  of  powdered 
calumba,  and  moisten  with  31  fluidounces  of  menstruum  (alcohol  2 volumes,  water  1 
volume). 

Columbo  2i  oz.  av.,  proof  spirit  sufficient  for  1 pint  (Imperial). — Br.  Colombo  1 
part,  alcohol  (sp.  grav.  0.912)  5 parts. — F.  Cod. 

The  tincture  has  a brown-yellow  color,  and  is  much  less  prone  to  unsightly  precipita- 
tion than  that  of  a former  pharmacopoeia,  which  was  made  with  diluted  alcohol. 

Uses. — This  tincture  possesses  all  the  virtues  of  calumba,  and  may  be  given  for  the 
same  purposes  as  that  medicine.  It  is  chiefly  employed  as  a stomachic  tonic  during  con- 
valescence from  acute  diseases  and  in  feeble  states  of  digestion  from  other  causes.  It  may 
also  be  added  to  bitter  infusions  where  a special  stimulant  action  is  desired.  The  dose  is 
Gm.  4-8  (fej-ij). 

TINCTURA  CANNABIS  INDICES,  77.  8.,  Br.— Tincture  of  Indian 

Cannabis. 

Tincture  of  hemp  ( Indian  hemp ),  E. ; Teinture  de  chanvre  de  T hide ) Fr. ; Indisch- 
hanftinlctur,  G. 

Preparation. — Indian  Cannabis,  in  No.  40  powder,  150  Gm. ; Alcohol  a sufficient 
quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  wfith  150  Cc.  of  alcohol,  and  macerate 
for  twenty-four  hours  ; then  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator,  and  gradually  pour 
alcohol  upon  it  until  1000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained. — U.  S.' 


TINCTURA  CA  NTH  A R TDTS. — TINCT  UR  A CAPSICI. 


1611 


To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  Indian  hemp  use  5 av.  ozs.  of  powdered  Indian  can- 
nabis, and  moisten  with  5 fiuidounces  of  menstruum  (alcohol). 

The  tincture  of  the  French  Codex  is  apparently  of  the  same  strength,  but  is  made  with 
alcohol  spec.  gray.  0.912,  which  is  too  weak  a menstruum.  The  present  official  formula 
is  nearly  identical  with  that  of  1880,  the  preparation  being  about  one-third  as  strong  as 
that  of  the  B.  P.  Good  Indian  cannabis  yields  about  121  per  cent,  of  alcoholic  extract; 
the  tincture  will  therefore  contain  about  137  grains  of  extract  in  the  pint.  The  Pharma- 
copoeia of  1870  ordered  360  grains  of  extract  to  the  pint. 

Extract  of  Indian  hemp  1 oz.  av.,  rectified  spirit  1 pint. — Br. 

Uses. — The  tincture  of  Indian  hemp  may  be  employed  for  the  same  purposes  as  the 
extract  of  that  plant,  but  is  ineligible  on  account  of  the  precipitation  of  its  resin  by 
water.  The  primary  dose  is  about  Gm.  1.30  (n^xx).  The  variable  strength  of  different 
specimens  of  the  tincture  has  occasioned  abnormal  effects  on  changing  one  for  another 
(TYmes  and  Gaz.,  June,  1885,  p.  817).  It  is  prudent  to  begin  with  a minimum  dose  and 
very  gradually  increase  it. 

TINCTURA  CANTHARIDIS,  U.  S.,  Br F.  Cod.—' Tincture  of  Can- 

THARIDES. 

Tinctura  cantharidum , R G.,  P.  A. — Teinture  de  cantharides , Fr. ; Spanischfiiegen- 
tinktur , G. 

Preparation. — Cantharides,  in  No.  60  powder,  50  Gm. ; Alcohol  a sufficient  quantity  ; 
to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  30  Cc.  of  alcohol,  and  pack  it  firmly  in  a 
cylindrical  percolator;  then  gradually  pour  alcohol  upon  it  until  1000  Cc.  of  tincture  are 
obtained. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  cantharides  use  1 av.  oz.  and  293  grains  of  powdered 
cantharides,  and  moisten  with  1 fluidounce  of  menstruum  (alcohol). 

The  proportions  directed  by  other  pharmacopoeias  are — Cantharides  \ oz.  av.,  proof  spirit 
1 pint  (Imperial). — Br.  Cantharides  1 part,  alcohol  10  parts. — F.  Cod..  F.  G. 

The  tincture  has  the  burning  taste  and  pie  peculiar  odor  of  cantharides.  Made  with 
alcohol,  it  is  of  a greenish-yellow  color  ; but  diluted  alcohol  dissolves  the  dark  extractive 
matter  and  yields  a brown-yellow  tincture.  The  tincture  of  the  U.  S.  P.  1880  represented 
in  the  fluidounce  18.7  grains  (the  present  one  22.8  grains)  of  cantharides. 

Uses.— This  preparation  is  convenient  for  use  in  the  comparatively  rare  cases  in 
which  cantharides  are  internally  administered.  It  may  be  prescribed  in  doses  of  Gm. 
0.30—1.30  (rrpv— xx)  and  upward  until  vesical  irritation  is  produced  ; even  smaller  doses, 
such  as  a drop  every  hour,  may  be  preferable  to  larger  doses  at  longer  intervals,  particu- 
larly when  the  kidneys  are  diseased.  Tincture  of  cantharides  should  be  administered 
largely  diluted  in  a mucilaginous  vehicle.  The  external  uses  of  this  preparation 
include  numerous  cases  in  which  a more  prolonged  and  sustained  irritation,  amount- 
ing sometimes  to  rubefaction,  is  required  than  can  be  obtained  by  more  active  irri- 
tants. Although  sometimes  applied  in  liniments  to  the  whole  surface  of  the  body,  it  is 
manifestly  less  appropriate  to  such  a purpose  than  stimulants  which  act  more  promptly 
and  for  a shorter  time  ; its  proper  use  is  as  a substitutive  stimulant  in  local  torpor,  con- 
gestions. inflammations,  and  pains , in  neuralgia  of  certain  nerves,  alopecia , frost-bite , 
fistulous  ulcers , etc.  The  following  liniment  is  used  in  alopecia  : R.  Cologne-water  f^j  ; 
Tincture  of  Cantharides  f^iss ; Tinctures  of  Rosemary  and  Lavender,  each  10  drops. 
The  scalp  should  be  gently  rubbed  every  day  with  this  lotion,  applied  on  a sponge  or 
piece  of  flannel. 

TINCTURA  CAPSICI,  U.  S.,  Br F.  G.— Tincture  of  Capsicum. 

Teinture  de  piment  des  jar  dins,  Fr. ; Spanischpfeffertinktur , G. 

Preparation. — Capsicum,  in  No.  30  powder,  50  Gm. ; Alcohol,  Water,  each  a suffi- 
cient quantity ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  alcohol  and  water  in  the  proportion  of  950  Cc. 
of  alcohol  to  50  Cc.  of  water,  and,  having  moistened  the  powder  with  40  Cc.  of  the  mixture, 
pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator ; then  gradually  pour  menstruum  upon  it  until 
1000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  capsicum  use  1 av.  oz.  and  293  grains  of  powdered  cap- 
sicum, and  moisten  with  1 \ fiuidounces  of  menstruum  (alcohol  19  volumes,  water  1 volume). 

Other  pharmacopoeias  direct — Capsicum  £ ounce  (av.),  rectified  spirit  sufficient  for  1 
pint  (Imperial). — Br.  Capsicum  1 part,  alcohol  10  parts. — F.  G. 


1612 


TINCTURA  CARDAMOMI. — T1NCTTJRA  CA  SC  A RILL2E. 


The  tincture  has  a light  reddish-orange  color  and  the  fiery  taste  of  capsicum.  Made 
according  to  the  U.  S.  P.  1880,  a fluidounce  of  it  contained  19  grains  (the  present  tincture 
22.8  grains)  of  capsicum. 

Uses. — This  tincture  can  be  used  for  most  of  the  purposes  for  which  capsicum  has 
been  recommended,  and  especially  as  an  addition  to  gargles,  rubefacient  liniments,  and 
mixtures  intended  to  stimulate  the  stomach  exhausted  by  alcoholic  excesses.  It  may  be 
prescribed  in  doses  of  Gm.  4-8  (f3j-ij),  appropriately  diluted. 

TINCTURA  CARDAMOMI,  77.  S. — Tincture  of  Cardamom. 

Teinture  de  cardamome , Fr.  ; Kardamomentinktur,  G. 

Preparation. — Cardamom,  in  No.  30  powder,  100  Gm. ; Diluted  Alcohol  a sufficient 
quantity ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  100  Cc.  of  diluted  alcohol, 
and  macerate  for  twenty-four  hours  ; then  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator, 
and  gradually  pour  diluted  alcohol  upon  it  until  1000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained. — 

TJ.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  cardamom  use  3 av.  ozs.  and  148  grains  of  powdered 
cardamom,  and  moisten  with  3J  fluidounces  of  menstruum  (diluted  alcohol). 

It  is  of  a brown-yellow  color,  and  has  the  aromatic  odor  and  spicy  taste  of  carda- 
mom. 

Uses. — The  simple  is  much  less  used  than  the  compound  tincture  of  cardamom.  It 
may,  however,  be  prescribed  as  a carminative  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  4-8  (fej-ij). 

TINCTURA  CARDAMOMI  COMPOSITA,  77.  S.,  Br.— Compound 

Tincture  of  Cardamom. 

Teinture  de  cardamome  composee , Fr.  ; Znsammengesetzte  Kardamomentinktur , G. 

Preparation. — Cardamom  20  Gm. ; Cinnamon  20  Gm. ; Caraway  10  Gm. ; Cochi- 
neal 5 Gm. ; Glycerin  50  Cc. ; Diluted  Alcohol  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc. 
Mix  the  cardamom,  cinnamon,  caraway,  and  cochineal,  and  reduce  them  to  a moderately 
coarse  (No.  40)  powder.  Having  moistened  the  powder  with  25  Cc.  of  diluted  alcohol, 
pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator,  and  gradually  pour  diluted  alcohol  upon  it  until 
950  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained  ; then  add  the  glycerin,  and  mix  them. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  compound  tincture  of  cardamom  use  292  grains  each  of  cardamom 
and  cinnamon,  146  grains  of  caraway,  and  73  grains  of  cochineal ; reduce  to  No.  40  pow- 
der. moisten  with  7 fluidrachms  of  diluted  alcohol,  and  percolate  with  diluted  alcohol 
until  30 f fluidounces  of  tincture  have  been  obtained,  to  which  add  13  fluidrachms  of 
glycerin. 

Cardamom-seed,  freed  from  the  pericarps,  and  caraway-fruit,  each  4 ounce  ; raisins, 
freed  from  their  seeds,  2 ounces ; cinnamon-bark  % ounce  (av.)  ; cochineal  55  grains ; 
proof  spirit  sufficient  for  1 pint  (Imperial). — Br. 

Both  tinctures  have  a red  color,  due  to  cochineal,  and  are  of  an  agreeable  aromatic  odor 
and  taste. 

Uses. — This  tincture,  on  account  of  its  brilliant  color  and  carminative  properties,  is 
when  mixed  with  sweetened  hot  water,  a favorite  remedy  for  flatulent  colic.  It  is  a 
customary  addition  to  mixtures  intended,  to  relieve  similar  affections.  The  dose  is  Gm. 
4-8  (f3-ij). 

TINCTURA  CASCARILLJE,  Br B.  A.— Tincture  of  Cascarilla. 

Teinture  de  cascarille , Fr.  ; Kaskarilltinktur , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Cascarilla-bark  21  oz.  av. ; proof  spirit  1 pint  (Imperial). 
Macerate  and  finish  the  tincture  by  the  process  described  under  Tincture. — Br.  Casca- 
rilla 1 part,  alcohol  (sp.  grav.  0.863)  5 parts. — F.  Cod. 

The  tincture  has  a reddish-brown  color. 

Uses. — Although  not  generally  used  in  this  country,  it  is  not  unworthy  of  being 
employed  in  cases  requiring  a tonic  and  stimulant  operation.  It  is  especially  useful  in 
dyspeptic  gastro-intestinal  derangements  due  to  atony,  and  is  beneficially  associated  in 
these  affections  and  others  with  compound  tincture  of  cinchona.  The  dose  is  from  Gm. 
2-8  (%ss-ij). 


TINCTURA  CA  STORE!.— TINCTURA  CHIRA  TJE. 


1613 


TINCTURA  CASTOREI,  F.  Cod.,  F.  A.— Tincture  of  Castor. 

Teinture  de  castoreum,  F. ; B iberge iltin ktur,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Castor,  in  coarse  powder,  1 oz.  av. ; Rectified  Spirit  1 pint. 
Macerate  for  seven  days  in  a closed  vessel,  with  occasional  agitation  ; strain,  press,  filter, 
and  add  sufficient  rectified  spirit  to  make  1 pint  (Imperial). — Br.  1867. 

Macerate  1 part  of  castor  in  10  parts  of  alcohol  (sp.  grav.  0.863). — F.  Cod.,  (sp.  grav. 
0.832,  P.  G.  1882). 

The  tincture  has  a deep  reddish-brown  color,  is  rendered  opalescent  by  water,  and  with 
a larger  quantity  of  water  becomes  milky,  of  a dingy  brownish-white  color,  deposits  red- 
brown  resinous  matter,  and  on  standing  becomes  nearly  colorless  and  almost  transparent ; 
on  the  addition  of  excess  of  ammonia  the  resin  remains  undissolved  (see  page  422). 

Tixctura  vEtherea  castorei  (Tinctura  etereo  de  castoreo,  Sp.').  Castor  1 part,  ether 
(sp.  gr.  .724)  7 parts,  alcohol  3 parts. — F.  Cod. 

Uses. — Tincture  of  castor  is  seldom  employed,  hut  in  the  obligatory  variation  of 
medicines  used  in  the  treatment  of  hysterical  disorders  it  may  occasionally  find  its  place, 
particularly  in  enemas.  The  latter  method  is  peculiarly  appropriate  when  an  hysterical 
attack  occurs  about  the  menstrual  period,  with  symptoms  of  utero-ovarian  irritation  and 
flatulent  distension  of  the  bowels.  The  ataxic  state  of  low  fevers  may  be  treated  in  the 
same  manner,  but  with  less  prospect  of  doing  good  than  by  the  use  of  asafetida,  valerian, 
opium,  or  simply  alcohol.  Dose,  from  Gm.  2-8  (f3ss-ij). 


TINCTURA  CATECHU  COMPOSITA,  U.  Compound  Tincture  of 

Catechu. 

Tinctura  catechu , Br.,  P.  G. — Teinture  de  cachou,  Fr. ; Katechutinktur , G. 

Preparation. — Catechu,  in  No.  40  powder,  100  Gm. ; Cassia  Cinnamon,  in  No.  40 
powder,  50  Gm. ; Diluted  Alcohol  a sufficient  quantity ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  the 
powders,  and,  without  moistening,  pack  the  mixture  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator, 
and  gradually  pour  diluted  alcohol  upon  it  until  1000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  catechu  use  3 av.  ozs.  and  148  grains  of  catechu  and 
1 av.  oz.  and  293  grains  of  cassia-bark. 

The  formulas  of  other  pharmacopoeias  direct — Pale  catechu  2?  oz.  av.,  cinnamon-bark 
1 ounce  av.,  proof  spirit  sufficient  for  1 pint  (Imperial). — Br.  Catechu  1 part,  alcohol 
(sp.  grav.  0.912  or  0.894)  5 parts. — F.  Cod.,  P.  G.,  P.  A. 

The  tincture  has  a dark  red-brown  color,  a strongly  astringent  taste,  and  an  acid  reac- 
tion ; it  does  not  become  milky  on  the  addition  of  water,  produces  with  ferric  salts  green- 
black  precipitates,  and  when  heated  with  potassium  dichromate  becomes  brownish-red. 

Uses. — Compound  tincture  of  catechu  is  used  internally,  chiefly  for  the  purpose  of 
diminishing  diarrhoea.  When  the  latter  affection  is  acute,  the  tincture  is  generally 
administered  in  chalk  mixture ; when  chronic,  it  is  often  given  with  port  wine.  Exter- 
nally, it  is  useful  as  a dressing  for  indolent  ulcers  of  soft  tissues,  and  particularly  of  the 
nipples  and  anus.  Diluted  with  water,  it  may  be  injected  into  the  rectum  or  vagina  in 
chronic  fluxes  of  those  organs.  The  dose  is  Gm.  2—8  (ftjss— ij). 

TINCTURA  CHIRATiE,  TJ.  S.,  Br. — Tincture  of  Chirata. 

Tincture  of  chiretta , E. ; Teinture  de  chirette , Fr. ; C hirettatinktur,  G. 

Preparation. — Chirata,  in  No.  40  powder.  100  Gm. ; Alcohol,  water,  each  a suffi- 
cient quantity;  to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  alcohol  and  water  in  the  proportion  of  650  Cc. 
of  alcohol  to  350  Cc.  of  water.  Having  moistened  the  powder  with  100  Cc.  of  the  men- 
struum, macerate  for  twenty-four  hours;  then  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator, 
and  gradually  pour  menstruum  upon  it  until  1000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  chirata  use  3 av.  ozs.  and  148  grains  of  chirata,  pow- 
dered, and  moisten  with  31  fluidounces  of  menstruum  (alcohol  65  volumes,  water  35 
volumes). 

Chiretta,  cut  small  and  bruised,  2$  oz.  av. ; proof  spirit  1 pint  (Imperial).  Prepare  the 
tincture  by  the  process  described  under  Tinctura:. — Br. 

Uses. — The  medicinal  qualities  of  this  preparation  are  closely  analogous  to  those  of 
columbo.  It  is  but  little  used  in  this  country.  Dose,  Gm.  2-8  (fjss-ij). 


1614  TINCTURA  CHLOROFORMI  COMPOSITA.— TTNCTURA  CINCH  ONuE. 


TINOTURA  CHLOROFORMI  COMPOSITA,  Br. — Compound  Tincture 

of  Chloroform. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Chloroform  2 fluidounces ; Rectified  Spirit  8 fluidounces ; 
Compound  Tincture  of  Cardamom  10  fluidounces.  Mix. — Br. 

Tinctura  CHLOROFORMI  et  morphine,  Br.  Dissolve  morphine  hydrochlorate  8 
grains  and  oil  of  peppermint  4 minims  in  rectified  spirit  1 fluidounce,  and  add  chloro- 
form 1 fluidounce  and  ether  2 fluidrachms.  Mix  liquid  extract  of  liquorice  and  treacle, 
each  1 fluidounce,  with  syrup  3 fluidounces,  add  this  to  the  above  solution ; then  add 
diluted  hydrocyanic  acid  ! fluidounce,  and  sufficient  syrup  to  make  8 fluidounces. — Br. 

Allied  Preparation. — Mistura  chloroformi  et  opii,  N.  F. ; Mixture  of  chloroform  and  opium, 
Chloroform  anodyne.  Triturate  240  grains  of  purified  extract  of  glycyrrhiza  with  4 fluidrachm 
of  water  and  1 fluidounce  of  simple  syrup  ; add  128  minims  of  fluid  extract  of  belladonna-root, 
2f  fluidounces  of  deodorized  tincture  of  opium,  and  1 fluidounce  of  tincture  of  capsicum,  pre- 
viously mixed  together  Then  mix  2 fluidounces  of  purified  chloroform,  16  minims  of  oil  of 
peppermint,  and  2 fluidounces  each  of  tincture  of  Indian  cannabis  and  tincture  of  quillaja,  and 
add  them  to  the  previous  mixture.  Finally  add  enough  syrup  to  make  16  fluidounces,  and  mix 
the  whole  thoroughly  together.  This  mixture  should  be  shaken  whenever  it  is  dispensed. 

Uses. — This  preparation  is  convenient  for  administering  chloroform  as  a liquid  inter- 
nally. The  dose  is  Gm.  1.30-2.60  (npxx-xl).  It  is  chiefly  used  for  allaying  flatulent, 
biliary,  and  renal  colics , but  has  also  been  employed  in  delirium  tremens  and  in  mania-d-potu. 

TINCTURA  CIMICIFUGA,  77.  S.,  Br.— Tincture  of  Cimicifuga. 

Tincture  of  black  snakeroot , E. ; Teinture  d'actee  d grappes , F. ; Cimicifugatinktur , G. 

Preparation. — Cimicifuga,  in  No.  60  powder,  200  Gm. ; Alcohol  a sufficient 
quantity ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  150  Cc.  of  alcohol,  macerate  for 
twenty-four  hours,  pack  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator,  and  with  alcohol  obtain  1000 
Cc.  of  tincture. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  cimicifuga  use  6 av.  ozs.  and  296  grains  of  cimicifuga 
and  moisten  with  5 fluidounces  of  menstruum  (alcohol). 

Cimicifuga  in  No.  40  powder  2|  oz. ; proof  spirit  sufficient  for  20  fl.  oz. — Br. 

Uses. — The  tincture  of  cimicifuga  seems  to  be  an  unnecessary  medicine,  since  the 
fluid  extract  contains  all  the  virtues  of  the  drug  in  a smaller  proportion  of  alcohol.  Bose, 
Gm.  4-12  (f^j-iij). 

TINCTURA  CINCHONA,  77.  S.,  Br.— Tincture  of  Cinchona. 

Tinctura  cinchonse  flavse , F.  Cod.;  Tinctura  cliinse , P.  G. — Tincture  of  yellow  cinchona , 
E.  ; Teinture  de  quinquinia  jaune,  Fr. ; C hinatinktur,  G. ; Tintura  de  quina , Sp. 

Preparation. — Yellow  Cinchona,  in  No.  60  powder,  200  Gm. ; Glycerin  75  Cc. ; 
Alcohol,  Water,  each  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  glycerin  with  675 
Cc.  of  alcohol  and  250  Cc.  of  water,  and,  having  moistened  the  powder  with  200  Cc.  of 
the  mixture,  macerate  for  twenty -four  hours ; then  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  glass 
percolator,  and  gradually  pour  on  the  remainder  of  the  mixture.  When  the  liquid  has 
disappeared  from  the  surface,  gradually  pour  on  more  of  the  mixture  of  alcohol  and  water, 
using  the  same  proportions  as  before,  and  continue  the  percolation  until  1000  Cc.  of 
tincture  are  obtained. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  cinchona  use  6 av.  ozs.  and  296  grains  of  yellow  cin- 
chona, and  moisten  with  62  fluidounces  of  the  menstruum,  glycerin  2!  fluidounces,  alco- 
hol 21|  fluidounces,  and  water  8 fluidounces;  continue  percolation  subsequently  with  a 
mixture  of  alcohol  3 volumes,  water  1 volume. 

Other  pharmacopoeias  employ — Red  cinchona  4 ounces  av.,  proof  spirit  sufficient  for  1 
pint  (Imperial). — Br.  Yellow  cinchona  1 part,  alcohol  (sp.  grav.  0.912)  5 parts — F.  Cod. 
Cinchona  containing  3!  per  cent,  of  alkaloids  1 part,  alcohol  (sp.  grav.  0.894)  5 parts. — 
P.  G. 

The  tincture  has  a red-brown  color,  and,  if  not  sufficiently  strong  in  alcohol,  deposits 
a sediment  of  cinchonic  red  containing  kinates  of  the  alkaloids.  Mr.  A.  B.  Taylor 
(1865)  found  a menstruum  composed  of  2 measures  of  alcohol  and  1 measure  each 
of  water  and  glycerin  capable  of  preventing  this  precipitation  for  several  months.  The 
present  U.  S.  P.  uses  alcohol  and  water  nearly  in  the  same  proportion  as  before,  and  adds 
a slightly  increased  quantity  of  glycerin. 


TINCTURA  CINCHONAE  COM  POSIT  A .—TINCTURA  CINNAMOMI.  1615 


Uses. — Tincture  of  cinchona  is  seldom  given  alone,  but  is  generally  used  as  an  addi- 
tion to  tonic  mixtures,  infusions,  etc.,  and  especially  for  modifying  the  taste  of  solutions 
of  quinine.  But  for  these  and  all  other  purposes  the  compound  tincture  is  preferable. 
Dose , Gm.  4-8  (f^j-ij). 

TINCTURA  CINCHONA  COMPOSITA,  U.  S.,  Br.— Compound  Tinc- 
ture of  Cinchona. 

Tinctura  chinse  composita , P.  G. ; Huxliams  tincture  of  bark , E. ; Teinture  de  quinquina 
composee,  Elixir  febrifuge  d' Iluxam,  Fr. ; Zusammengesetzte  Chinatinktur , G . 

Preparation. — Red  Cinchona  100  Gm. ; Bitter  Orange-peel  80  Gm. ; Serpentaria  20 
Gm. ; Glycerin  75  Cc. ; Alcohol,  Water,  each  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc. 
Mix  the  glycerin  with  850  Cc.  of  alcohol  and  75  Cc.  of  water.  Having  mixed  the  cin- 
chona, orange-peel,  and  serpentaria,  reduce  them  to  a fine  (No.  60)  powder.  Moisten  the 
powder  with  200  Cc.  of  the  menstruum,  and  macerate  for  twenty-four  hours ; then  pack 
it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  glass  percolator,  and  gradually  pour  on  the  remainder  of  the 
menstruum.  When  the  liquid  has  disappeared  from  the  surface,  gradually  pour  upon  it 
enough  of  a mixture  of  alcohol  and  water,  using  the  same  proportions  as  before,  and  con- 
tinue the  percolation  until  1000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  compound  tincture  of  cinchona  use  3 av.  ozs.  and  148  grains  of 
red  cinchona,  2 av.  ozs.  and  293  grains,  of  bitter-orange  peel,  and  293  grains  of  serpen- 
taria; moisten  with  61  fluidounces  of  the  menstruum,  glycerin  21  fluidounces,  alcohol  27 
fluidounces,  and  water  21  fluidounces,  and  continue  percolation  subsequently  with  a mix- 
ture of  alcohol  85  volumes,  water  15  volumes. 

Red  cinchona  2 oz.  av.  ; bitter  orange-peel  1 oz.  av. ; serpentary-root  1 oz.  av. ; 
saffron  55  grains  ; cochineal  28  grains  ; proof  spirit  sufficient  to  obtain  1 pint  (Imperial). 
—Br. 

The  tincture  of  the  German  Pharmacopoeia  is  also  known  as  Elixir  roborans  Whyttvi 
(Tintura  de  corteza  de  naranjas  compuesta,  Sp.),  and  is  composed  of  cinchona  6 parts, 
orange-peel  and  gentian-root,  each  2 parts,  Chinese  cinnamon  1 part,  alcohol  (spec.  grav. 
0.894)  50  parts. 

The  first  formula  directs  a menstruum  containing  nearly  one-fourth  more  alcohol  than 
is  ordered  for  the  simple  tincture  of  cinchona ; the  strength  of  the  latter  appears  to  be 
ample  also  for  the  compound  tincture.  The  preparation  has  a deep  red-brown  color,  an 
aromatic  odor,  and  a bitter  and  astringent  taste. 

Uses. — The  one  disease — or  morbid  condition,  rather — in  which  this  preparation  of 
cinchona  is  superior  to  all  others  is  the  typhoid  state , whatever  may  be  the  original  affec- 
tion during  which  it  is  developed.  In  doing  good  the  cinchona  is  aided  by  the  serpen- 
taria and  alcohol  of  the  compound,  if  not,  as  was  once  believed,  by  the  saffron  also  ( Br . 
Pi).  It  should  be  given  in  small  and  repeated  doses  of  Gm.  4—8  (f^j—  ij),  with  3 or  4 
parts  of  water. 

TINCTURA  CINNAMOMI,  V.  S.,  Br.,  F.  Cod.,  F.  G.,  F.  A.— Tinc- 
ture of  Cinnamon. 

Teinture  de  cannelle , Fr. ; Zimmttinktur , G. ; Tintura  de  canela , Sp. 

Preparation. — Ceylon  Cinnamon,  in  No.  40  powder,  100  Gm. ; Glycerin  50  Cc. ; 
Alcohol,  Water,  each  a sufficient  quantity ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  glycerin  with 
750  Cc.  of  alcohol  and  200  Cc.  of  water.  Having  moistened  the  powder  with  50  Cc.  of 
the  menstruum,  pack  it  in  a conical  percolator,  gradually  pour  on  the  balance  of  the  men- 
struum, and  continue  percolation  with  a mixture  of  alcohol  3 volumes  and  water  1 volume 
until  1000  Cc.  of  tincture  have  been  obtained. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  cinnamon  use  3 av.  ozs.  and  148  grains  of  Ceylon  cin- 
namon, and  moisten  with  11  fluidounces  of  a mixture  of  13  fluidrachms  of  glycerin,  24 
fluidounces  of  alcohol,  and  6f  fluidounces  of  water ; finally,  percolation  should  be  con- 
tinued with  a mixture  of  alcohol  3 volumes,  water  1 volume. 

Ceylon  cinnamon  21  oz.  av.,  proof  spirit  sufficient  for  1 pint  (Imperial). — Br.  Ceylon 
cinnamon  1 part,  alcohol  (sp.  grav.  0.863)  5 parts. — F.  Cod.  Chinese  cinnamon  1 part, 
alcohol  (sp.  grav.  0.894)  5 parts. — P.  G. 

The  tincture  has  a red-brown  color  and  a sweetish,  warmly  aromatic,  and  somewhat 
astringent  taste.  It  sometimes  gelatinizes  when  the  menstruum  becomes  too  weak  in 
alcohol.  This  is  intended  to  be  overcome  by  the  presence  of  glycerin  and  greater  alco- 
holic strength  in  the  official  formula. 


1616 


TINCTURA  COCCI.— T1NCTURA  CROCI. 


Uses. — The  agreeable  taste  and  slight  astringency  of  this  preparation  render  it  a 
suitable  addition  to  mixtures  intended  to  check  recent  diarrhoea.  It  may  be  added  to 
lime-water  to  control  nausea  and  vomiting.  Dose , Gm.  2—8  (fgss-ij). 

TINCTURA  COCCI,  Br. — Tincture  of  Cochineal. 

Teintuve  de  cochenille , Fr. ; Cochenilletinktur , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Cochineal,  in  powder,  2\  oz.  ay. ; Proof  Spirit  1 pint  (Impe- 
rial). Macerate  for  seven  days  in  a closed  vessel,  with  occasional  agitation ; strain,  press, 
filter,  and  add  sufficient  proof  spirit  to  make  1 pint. — Br.  Cochineal  1 part,  alcohol  (spec, 
grav.  0.863)  10  parts. — F.  Cod. 

This  tincture  has  a deep-red  color,  which  is  affected  by  reagents,  as  described  on  page 
511. 

Uses. — It  is  used  exclusively  for  coloring  tinctures,  ointments,  and  mixtures. 

TINCTURA  COLCHICI  SEMINIS,  XT.  Br.,  B.  ^l.— Tincture  of 

COLCHICUM-SEED. 

Tinctura  colchici,  P.  G. — Tincture  of  colchicum,  E. ; Teinture  de  colchique , Fr. ; Zeitlosen- 
tinktur , G. ; Tintura  de  semilla  de  colchico,  Sp. 

Preparation. — Colchicum-seed,  in  No.  30  powder,  150  Gm. ; Alcohol,  Water,  each 
a sufficient  quantity ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  alcohol  and  water  in  the  proportion  of  600 
Cc.  of  alcohol  and  400  Cc.  of  water.  Having  moistened  the  powder  with  100  Cc.  of  the 
menstruum,  macerate  for  twenty-four  hours  ; then  pack  it  moderately  in  a cylindrical  per- 
colator, and  gradually  pour  menstruum  upon  it  until  1000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained. — 
U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  colchicum-seed  use  5 av.  ozs.  of  powdered  colchicum- 
seed,  and  moisten  with  31  fluidounces  of  the  menstruum  (alcohol  3 volumes,  water  2 
volumes). 

Colchicum-seed  2\  oz.  av.,  proof  spirit  sufficient  for  1 pint  (Imperial). — Br.  Colchi- 
cum-seed 1 part,  alcohol  (sp.  gr.  0.912)  5 parts, — F.  Cod.  Colchicum-seed  1 part,  alcohol 
(sp.  grav.  0.894)  10  parts. — P.  G. 

That  unbroken  colchicum-seeds  may  be  completely  deprived  of  colchicine  by  digestion 
has  been  mentioned  on  page  516  ; but  all  the  pharmacopoeias  direct  the  seeds  to  be  bruised 
or  powdered.  The  tincture  is  of  a brownish-yellow  color,  has  a bitter  taste,  and  becomes 
opalescent  with  water. 

Uses. — This  tincture  possesses  the  proper  virtues  of  colchicum,  and  may  be  used  as 
well  as  the  wine.  The  difference  of  alcoholic  strength  between  it  and  the  wine  can  make 
no  perceptible  difference  in  the  effects  of  such  doses  as  are  employed  in  practice.  The  dose 
is  Gm.  0.60-2  (npx-xxx). 

TINCTURA  CONII,  Br. — Tincture  of  Conium. 

Teinture  de  cigue,  Fr.  ; Schierlingstinktur , G. 

Preparation. — Macerate  2\  av.  ozs.  of  finely-comminuted  conium-fruit  for  forty- 
eight  hours  in  15  fluidounces  of  proof  spirit  in  a closed  vessel,  agitating  occasionally; 
transfer  to  a percolator,  and  when  the  liquid  has  all  drained  off  pour  on  5 ounces  of 
proof  spirit.  Finally,  express  the  mass,  filter,  and  add  enough  proof  spirit  to  bring  the 
volume  up  to  1 pint  (Imperial). — Br. 

The  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia  no  longer  recognizes  the  tincture  : the  formula  of  1880  directed 
150  parts  of  conium-fruit,  in  No.  30  powder,  to  be  percolated  with  diluted  alcohol  contain- 
ing 0.4  per  cent,  of  diluted  hydrochloric  acid  until  1000  parts  (by  weight)  of  tincture  have 
been  obtained. 

Uses. — Tincture  of  conium  cannot  be  regarded  as  an  eligible  preparation,  inasmuch 
as  the  quantity  of  it  capable  of  producing  definite  effects  contains  sufficient  alcohol  to 
counteract  the  sedative  action  of  the  conium.  It  is  supplanted  by  the  juice  of  conium. 
Dose , Gm.  1.30-4  (npxx-lx). 

TINCTURA  CROCI,  U.  S.,  Br.,  JP.  G.—' Tincture  of  Saffron. 

Teinture  de  safran , Fr. ; Safran tinktur , G. 

Preparation. — Saffron  100  Gm.;  Diluted  Alcohol  a sufficient  quantity;  to  make 
1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  saffron  with  100  Cc.  of  diluted  alcohol,  and  macerate  for  twenty- 


TINCTURA  CUBEBS.— TINCTURA  ERGOTJE. 


1617 


four  hours ; then  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator,  and  gradually  pour  diluted 
alcohol  upon  it  until  1000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  saffron  use  3 av.  ozs.  and  148  grains  of  saffron,  and 
moisten  with  34  fluidounces  of  the  menstruum  (diluted  alcohol). 

Saffron  1 oz.  av. ; proof  spirit  sufficient  for  1 pint  (Imperial). — Br. 

Saffron  1 part.  Macerate  with  10  parts  of  alcohol  (sp.  gray.  0.863,  F.  Cod .)  (sp.  gr. 
0.894,  P.  G.)  for  ten  days;  express,  and  filter. — F.  Cod.,  P.  G. 

The  tincture  is  of  a rich  orange-yellow  color,  and  has  the  odor  and  taste  of  saffron. 

Uses. — Tincture  of  saffron  is  rarely  given  alone  internally.  It  is  chiefly  employed  to 
impart  a pleasing  color  to  mixtures.  Dose , Grin.  4-8  (f^j-ij). 

TINCTURA  CUBEBiE,  U.  S.,  Br.— Tincture  of  Oubeb. 

Teinture  de  cubebe , Fr. ; Kubebentinktur , Gr. 

Preparation. — Cubeb,  in  No.  30  powder,  200  Gm. ; Alcohol  a sufficient  quantity ; to 
make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  100  Cc.  of  alcohol,  and  macerate  for  twenty-four 
hours ; then  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator,  and  gradually  pour  alcohol  upon  it 
until  1000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  cubeb  use  6 av.  ozs.  and  296  grains  of  cubeb,  and 
moisten  with  34  fluidounces  of  the  menstruum  (alcohol). 

Powdered  cubebs  24  oz.  av.,  rectified  spirit  sufficient  to  obtain  1 pint  (Imperial). — Br. 
Powdered  cubebs  1 part,  alcohol  (sp.  gr.  0.863)  5 parts, — F.  Cod. 

The  U.  S.  P.  has  increased  the  strength  of  the  tincture  to  nearly  double  that  of  1880, 
and,  very  properly,  has  ordered  alcohol  in  place  of  diluted  alcohol  as  a menstruum, 
whereby  all  the  oil  and  resin  can  be  brought  into  solution,  which  was  not  the  case 
formerly.  The  tincture  has  a greenish-brown  color,  and  becomes  milky  when  mixed  with 
water. 

Uses. — Tincture  of  cubeb  is  chiefly  of  use  in  gleet,  but  sometimes  also  as  a carmina- 
tive. The  dose  is  Grm.  2-8  (fgss— ij). 

TINCTURA  DIGITALIS,  U.  S.,  Br.,  JP.  G.,  B.  A.— Tincture  of 

Digitalis. 

Teinture  de  digitale,  Fr. ; Fingerhuttinktur,  Gr. 

Preparation. — Digitalis,  in  No.  60  powder,  150  Grm. ; Diluted  Alcohol  a sufficient 
quantity ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  150  Cc.  of  diluted  alcohol,  and 
macerate  for  twenty-four  hours ; then  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator,  and 
gradually  pour  diluted  alcohol  upon  it  until  1000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  digitalis  use  5 av.  ounces  of  digitalis-leaves,  and 
moisten  with  44  fluidounces  of  the  menstruum  (diluted  alcohol). 

Digitalis  24  oz.  av.,  proof  spirit  sufficient  for  1 pint  (Imperial). — Br.  Digitalis  1 part, 
alcohol  (sp.  grav.  0.912)  5 parts. — F.  Cod.  Fresh  digitalis-leaves  5 parts,  alcohol  (sp. 
grav.  0.832)  6 parts. — P.  G. 

The  tests  given  on  p.  581  are  valuable  for  determining  the  quality  of  digitalis  ; namely, 
the  infusion  made  with  30  parts  of  water  should  become  distinctly  turbid  with  a solution 
of  tannin,  and  the  infusion  with  10  parts  of  water  should  not  yield  a precipitate  with 
ferric  chloride.  The  tincture  has  a brown-green  color,  the  peculiar  odor  of  the  leaves, 
and  a bitter  taste. 

Tinctura  ^therea  digitalis  (Tintura  etero  de  digital,  Sp.).  Bruised  digitalis  1 
part,  ether  (sp.  grav.  0.758)  5 parts. — F.  Cod.  It  is  of  a dark-green  color. 

Uses. — The  special  virtues  of  digitalis  are  possessed  by  this  preparation,  which  is 
more  used  than  any  other  to  obtain  the  action  of  the  drug  upon  the  heart.  Its  con- 
venience, rather  than  its  superiority  to  the  infusion,  has  probably  led  to  this  custom. 
Friction  of  the  abdomen  and  of  other  parts  of  the  body  with  tincture  of  digitalis  has 
sometimes  been  followed  by  diuresis  in  dropsy.  Dose,  Gm.  0.60—1.20  (frpx— xx)  three 
times  a day.  Great  care  should  be  taken  in  obtaining  a new  parcel  of  the  medicine  to 
learn  whether  it  be  of  the  same  strength  as  that  previously  used. 

TINCTURA  ERGOTS,  Br. — Tincture  of  Ergot. 

Tinctura  secalis  cornuti. — Teinture  de  seigle  ergote,  Fr.  ; Mutterkorntinktur,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Ergot,  finely  comminuted,  5 oz.  av. ; Proof  Spirit  1 pint 
(Imperial).  Prepare  the  tincture  by  the  process  described  under  Tincture. — Br. 

102 


1618  TINCTURA  FERRI  ACER  A TIS.— TINCTURA  FERRI  CHLORIDI. 


The  tincture  has  a red-brown  color  and  the  odor  and  taste  of  ergot. 

Uses. — The  stimulant  action  of  the  alcohol  in  this  preparation  probably  renders  it 
less  eligible  than  the  wine  or  the  fluid  extract  of  ergot.  The  dose  is  Gm.  0.60-4  (npx- 
foi)- 

TINCTURA  FERRI  ACETATIS,  Br. — Tincture  of  Ferric  Acetate. 

Tinctura  ferri  acetici  setherea , P.  G. — Tincture  of  acetate  of  iron,  E. ; Teinture  d' acetate 
de  fer , Fr. ; Eisenacetattinktur,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  strong  solution  of  acetate  of  iron  5 fluidounces  ; acetic  acid 
1 fluidounce ; rectified  spirit  5 fluidounces  ; distilled  water  9 fluidounces.  Mix,  and  then 
add  sufficient  distilled  water  to  make  20  fluidounces.  Preserve  in  a stoppered  bottle. 
— Br. 

Solution  of  ferric  acetate  80  parts,  alcohol  12  parts,  acetic  ether  8 parts. — P.  G. 

The  former  process  of  double  decomposition  has  been  abandoned  in  the  present  British 
Pharmacopoeia  for  a tincture  which  contains  an  excess  of  acetic  acid,  while  that  of  the 
P.  G.  contains  a basic  salt  (see  p.  955)  ; the  last  authority  orders  also  the  addition  of 
acetic  ether.  The  solution  of  ferric  acetate,  Br.  (see  p.  955),  is  of  the  same  strength  as 
the  tincture,  but  contains  less  free  acetic  acid. 

Properties. — This  tincture  is  a clear,  dark  reddish-brown  liquid,  transparent  in  thin 
layers,  having  the  odor  of  acetic  ether,  an  acidulous  and  astringent  taste,  and  a slightly 
acid  reaction.  Sp.  gr.  about  1.044-1.046.  It  is  miscible  in  all  proportions  with  water, 
without  becoming  turbid. — P.  G.  The  tincture  should  be  kept  in  the  dark  and  in  a cool 
place. 

A weak  tincture  or  solution  of  ferric  acetate  is  largely  used  as  a wood-stain.  Woods 
containing  tannin  are  thereby  colored  black,  resembling  ebony.  To  produce  the  same 
imitation  with  wood  which  is  free  from  tannin,  this  is  first  soaked  in  a solution  of  extract 
of  logwood  before  it  is  treated  with  ferric  acetate. 

Tests. — The  diluted  tinctures,  after  being  precipitated  by  an  excess  of  ammonia,  yield 
a filtrate  which  should  not  be  precipitated  by  hydrogen  sulphide  (zinc,  copper),  barium 
chloride  (sulphate),  or,  after  having  been  acidulated  with  nitric  acid,  by  silver  nitrate 
(chloride)  ; and  on  being  evaporated  and  ignited  should  not  leave  any  fixed  residue  (alka- 
lies, earths). 

Uses, — This  preparation  is  reputed  by  English  authorities  to  be  not  only  an  excellent 
chalybeate  for  general  purposes,  but  also  one  of  the  best  of  the  styptic  ferruginous  prep- 
arations for  internal  administration.  It  should  be  given  largely  diluted  with  water  and 
taken  in  small  and  repeated  doses.  The  dose  is  Gm.  0.20-2  (npv-xxx).  The  acetic- 
ethereal  tincture  is  convenient  in  hysterical  anaemic  cases,  but  only  as  an  occasional  sub- 
stitute for  the  more  actively  reconstituent  preparations  of  iron. 

TINCTURA  FERRI  CHLORIDI,  77.  S. — Tincture  op  Ferric  Chloride. 

Tinctura  ferri  per  chloridi,  Br. ; Tinctura  ferri  sesquichloridi — Tincture  of  per  chloride 
.of  iron,  Tincture  of  chloride  of  iron,  E;  Teinture  de  perchlorure  de  fer , Fr. ; Eisenchlorid - 
tinktur , G. 

A hydro-alcoholic  solution  of  ferric  chloride  containing  about  13.6  per  cent,  of  the 
anhydrous  salt,  and  corresponding  to  about  4.7  (4.69)  per  cent,  of  metallic  iron. — U.  S. 

Preparation. — Solution  of  Ferric  Chloride  250  Cc. ; Alcohol  a sufficient  quantity ; 
to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  solution  with  enough  alcohol  to  make  1000  Cc.  Let  the 
tincture  stand  in  a closely-covered  vessel  at  least  three  months ; then  transfer  it  to  glass- 
stoppered  bottles,  and  keep  it  protected  from  light. — U.  S. 

Mix  strong  solution  of  perchloride  of  iron  5 fluidounces  with  rectified  spirit  5 fluid- 
ounces  and  distilled  water  10  fluidounces. — Br. 

The  two  tinctures  are  practically  alike,  except  that  the  first  contains  free  hydrochloric 
acid,  and  when  it  is  kept  on  hand  for  some  time,  as  now  directed  by  the  Pharmacopoeia, 
previous  to  dispensing  it,  acquires  an  ethereal  odor  from  the  formation  of  various  com- 
pounds, resulting  from  the  action  upon  the  alcohol  of  the  free  acid,  and  probably  also  of 
the  ferric  chloride,  the  latter  being  reduced  to  ferrous  chloride,  more  particularly  on 
exposing  the  tincture  to  the  light.  The  present  Br.  P.  has  reduced  the  alcohol  to  one- 
third  the  former  strength. 

Tincture  of  ferric  chloride  is  perfectly  transparent,  and  has  a brown-yellow  or  bright 


TINCTURA  FERRI  CHLORIDI. 


1619 


brownish  color,  an  agreeable  ethereal  odor,  a strongly  astringent,  ferruginous  taste,  and 
an  acid  reaction.  Its  specific  gravity  is  0.960  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  (U.  Si).  The  tincture 
behaves  to  alkalies,  potassium  ferrocyanide,  and  silver  nitrate  like  the  solution  (see  page 
957).  Dr.  Robert  Battey  and  Mr.  J.  C.  Wharton  (1870)  occasionally  observed  the  tinc- 
ture to  deposit  white  crystals  of  calcium  sulphate,  which  were  probably  derived  from 
impurity  in  the  acid.  After  the  tincture  has  been  exposed  for  some  time  to  daylight  it 
yields  a blue  or  greenish  color  with  potassium  ferricyanide,  showing  the  presence  of  some 
ferrous  salt,  due  to  reduction. 

Tests. — Impurities  like  nitric  acid,  copper,  zinc,  alkalies,  and  ferric  oxychloride  are 
detected  in  the  same  manner  as  stated  for  the  salt  and  the  solution  (see  pp.  719  and  957). 
In  testing  for  oxychloride  the  Pharmacopoeia  directs  8 parts  of  the  tincture  to  be  diluted 
with  100  parts  of  distilled  water  before  boiling.  If  1.12  (1.1176)  Gm.  of  the  tincture 
be  introduced  into  a glass-stoppered  bottle  (having  a capacity  of  about  100  Cc.),  together 
with  15  Cc.  of  water  and  2 Cc.  of  hydrochloric  acid,  and  after  the  addition  of  1 Gm.  of 
potassium  iodide  the  mixture  be  kept  for  half  an  hour  at  a temperature  of  40°  C.  (104° 
F.),  and  then  allowed  to  cool  and  mixed  with  a few  drops  of  starch  test-solution,  it  will 
require  about  9.4  Cc.  of  decinormal  sodium  thiosulphate  solution  to  discharge  the  blue 
or  greenish  color  of  the  liquid  (each  Cc.  of  the  volumetric  solution  consumed  indicating 
0.5  per  cent,  of  metallic  iron).” — U.  S. 

Tinctura  ferri  chlorati  iETHEREA,  P.  G .,  s.  Tinctura  tonico-nervina  Bestuscheffii, 
s.  Liquor  anodynus  martiatus,  s.  Spiritus  ferri  chlorati  sethereus.  1 part  of  solution  of 
ferric  chloride  spec.  grav.  1.282  (containing  19.9  per  cent.  Fe2Cl6)  is  mixed  with  alcohol 
7 parts  and  ether  2 parts,  the  mixture  exposed  to  the  sunlight  until  colorless,  and  after- 
ward kept  in  partially  filled  bottles  in  a shady  place  until  it  has  acquired  a yellow  color. 
During  the  bleaching  process  the  ferric  is  reduced  to  ferrous  chloride,  ethyl  chloride  and 
a little  aldehyde  being  generated  through  the  influence  of  the  nascent  chlorine.  On 
exposure  to  the  air  the  salt  is  partly  oxidized  to  ferric  oxychloride.  This  is  known  as 
Bestusclieff' s tincture.  It  has  a warm  and  ferruginous  taste,  is  precipitated  black  by 
ammonia,  white  by  silver  nitrate,  and  blue  by  both  ferrocyanide  and  ferricyanide  of  pota- 
sium,  and  contains  1 per  cent,  of  iron.  10  Cc.  of  this  tincture,  after  being  agitated  with 
an  equal  volume  of  the  solution  of  potassium  acetate,  should  separate  on  standing  3 Cc. 
of  ethereal  liquid. 

Tasteless  Tincture  of  Iron,  introduced  by  M.  Creuse  (1873),  has  the  ferruginous 
taste  modified  by  an  alkali  citrate,  the  compound  formed  being  analogous  in  color  and 
taste  to  the  pharmacopoeial  ferric  phosphate  and  pyrophosphate.  The  following  formula 
has  been  adopted  by  the  Amer.  Pharm.  Assoc.,  and  also  the  name,  Tincture  of  citro- 
chloride  of  iron:  Mix  4 fluidounces  of  official  solution  of  ferric  chloride  with  4 ounces 
of  water,  and  add  7 troyounces  of  sodium  citrate ; apply  gentle  heat  to  effect  solution. 
Add  2\  fluidounces  of  alcohol,  and  when  cold  make  up  the  volume  to  16  fluidounces 
with  water.  If  any  saline  matter  should  separate  after  a few  days,  filter  and  restore  the 
original  volume  by  passing  sufficient' water  through  the  filter.  (Each  fluidrachm  of  the 
tincture  contains  an  amount  of  iron  equivalent  to  about  7i  grains  of  dry  ferric  chloride.) 

Action  and  Uses. — Tincture  of  iron  chloride  is,  of  all  ferruginous  compounds 
except  the  solutions  of  the  chloride  and  of  the  persulphate,  the  one  that  exerts  the 
most  powerful  local  action  as  a styptic,  and  indeed  as  a caustic,  upon  delicate  tissues. 
Even  when  largely  diluted  it  constringes  the  mouth  and  fauces.  A diuretic  action  is 
attributed  to  it,  which  is  probably  due  to  the  ether  which  it  contains.  It  is  very  apt  to 
attack  the  teeth  unless  properly  diluted  and  taken  through  a tube.  One  or  two  cases  are 
reported  of  strangury  caused  by  its  external  application. 

Like  the  solution  of  iron  chloride,  this  preparation  may  be  used  as  a local  styptic,  but 
it  is  less  efficient  than  the  former.  It  is  better  suited  for  internal  administration  in  all 
cases  of  passive  haemorrhage,  and  especially  in  that  from  the  uterus.  It  is  eminently 
serviceable  when  haemorrhage  depends  upon  imperfect  coagulability  of  the  blood,  asso- 
ciated with  a lax  condition  of  the  solids  and  general  debility.  For  these  reasons,  doubt- 
less, it  is  very  efficient  in  purpura  hsemorrhagica.  It  is  probably  the  best  preparation 
that  can  be  employed  in  chronic  albuminuria , although  the  utility  of  other  ferruginous 
preparations  in  the  same  affection  proves  that  they  do  not  act  by  their  astringency  as 
much  as  by  their  reconstituent  power  in  the  blood.  Indeed,  the  form  in  which  the  tinc- 
ture is  ordinarily  given  in  renal  disorders,  “ Basham’s  mixture,”  no  longer  holds  iron  as 
a chloride,  but  as  an  acetate.  Possibly,  the  free  acids  of  this  preparation  act  as  diuretics. 
The  formula  for  this  solution  is  as  follows:  R.  Tr.  ferri  chloridi  fgiss ; Acid,  acetic,  dil. 
f^j  ; Liq.  ammoniae  acet.  f^ivss;  Tr.  aurant.  cort.  f^iss;  Glycerinae  fgss. — M.  S.  A 


1620 


TINCTURA  GALL M. 


tablespoonful,  largely  diluted,  two  or  three  times  a day.  Instead  of  this  preparation, 
Wyss  recommends  Bestuscheff’s  tincture  in  doses  of  5 to  10  drops  from  three  to  six  times 
a day.  The  tincture  of  the  chloride  is  the  best  form  in  which  iron  can  be  given  in  diabetes. 

In  various  chronic  mucous  fluxes,  including  leucorrhoea , blennorrhoea,  bronchorrhoea,  diar- 
rhoea., and  also  in  passive  sweats , this  preparation  is  often  of  essential  service,  both  by 
its  constringing  action  and  its  reconstituent  operation.  It  is  scarcely  less  efficient  in 
vesical  catarrh , especially  when  it  is  associated  with  paralysis  of  the  bladder.  Doubtless 
the  double  action  just  indicated  renders  it  an  efficient  remedy  for  seminal  losses  due  to 
excessive  or  unnatural  stimulation  of  the  genital  organs.  To  its  astringency  must 
probably  be  ascribed  its  remarkable  efficacy  in  idiopathic  erysipelas  and  its  alleged  utility 
in  other  forms  of  the  same  affection.  In  regard  to  the  first-named  disease,  the  virtues 
of  the  medicine  are  incontestable  whenever  it  is  administered  in  sufficient  doses — i.  e.  of 
Gm.  1.30-2  (gtt.  xx-xxx)  every  two  hours,  both  night  and  day.  In  many  cases  of 
traumatic  erysipelas  its  utility  is  equally  well  established.  Applied  topically  and  undi- 
luted, it  is  said  to  prevent  the  spreading  of  the  eruption  (Hopadze,  Med.  Record , xix. 
364).  but  this  statement  may  not  apply  to  the  idiopathic  affection.  In  puerperal  fever , an 
affection  which  stands  in  the  closest  relationship  to  erysipelas,  the  power  of  this  medicine 
has  been  unequivocally  demonstrated  (Bell,  Edinburgh  Med.  Jour.,  xxvi.  50,  74).  In 
diphtheria  this  tincture  is  one  of  the  most  efficient  topical  applications  to  the  parts  on 
which  the  exudation  is  seated,  and  its  internal  administration  in  appropriate  doses,  such 
as  from  Gm.  0.30-1  (5  to  15  drops)  every  half  hour  or  hour,  has  produced  better  results 
than  any  other  medicine.  When  thus  administered  the  more  special  topical  use  of  the 
medicine  may  be  dispensed  with  ( Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  July,  1881,  p.  58).  As  an 
application  to  chilblains  it  is  sometimes  used,  and  it  is  one  of  the  many  articles  recom- 
mended as  applications  in  poisoning  by  Bhus  toxicodendron,  and  it  has  been  vaunted 
(. Brit . Med.  Jour.,  Sept.  4,  1886)  as  a remedy  for  whooping  cough.  It  has  also  been 
employed,  in  large  and  repeated  doses,  in  acute  articular  rheumatism , but,  while  the 
results  show  that  it  is  tolerated  in  most  instances,  and  appears  to  be  beneficial  in  a small 
proportion  of  mild  cases,  yet  the  proportion  of  cardiac  complications  occurring  during 
its  administration  seems  to  have  been  unusually  large. 

This  tincture  may  be  applied  in  the  same  manner  as  the  solution  of  chloride  of  iron 
for  arresting  haemorrhage , whether  external  or  internal.  It  may  be  inhaled  as  an  atomized 
solution  in  cases  of  pulmonary  haemorrhage.  For  the  latter  purpose  a solution  of  1 part 
of  the  tincture  to  10  parts  of  water  may  be  used. 

The  dose  of  this  medicine  is  from  Gm.  0.60-2  (gtt.  x-xxx),  largely  diluted  with  water. 
The  astringency  can  be  nullified  by  a solution  of  sodium  bicarbonate  or  citrate.  But  the 
preparation  is  thereby  deprived  of  one  of  its  distinctive  virtues.  Syrup  also  tends  to 
protect  the  teeth  from  free  acid  in  the  compound. 

Bestuscheffs  tincture  has  long  been  used  as  an  agreeable  nervine  tonic  in  chlorosis 
attended  with  nervous  symptoms. 

TINCTURA  GALLiE,  U.  S.,  Br. — Tincture  of  Nutgall. 

Tinctura  gallarum,  P.  G.,  P.  A. — Tincture  of  galls,  E. ; Teinture  de  noix  de  galle,  Fr. ; 
Galldpfeltinktur,  G. 

Preparation. — Nutgall,  in  No.  40  powder,  200  Gm. ; Glycerin  100  Cc. ; Alcohol 
a sufficient  quantity ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  glycerin  with  900  Cc.  of  alcohol,  and, 
without  moistening  the  powder,  pack  it  in  a conical  glass  percolator ; then  gradually  pour 
upon  it,  first,  the  remainder  of  the  mixture,  and  afterward  alcohol,  until  1000  Cc.  of 
tincture  are  obtained. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  nutgall  use  6 av.  ozs.  and  296  grains  of  powdered  galls, 
percolate  with  a mixture  of  31  fluidounces  of  glycerin  and  28f  fluidounces  of  alcohol,  and 
continue  percolation  with  alcohol  until  32  fluidounces  of  tincture  have  been  obtained. 

Nutgall  2i  oz.  av.,  proof  spirit  sufficient  for  1 pint  (Imperial). — Br.  Macerate  nutgall 
1 part  with  5 parts  of  alcohol  spec.  grav.  0.912  ( F '.  Cod.),  (sp.  grav.  0.894,  P.  G.). 

Nutgall  yields  over  60  per  cent.,  or  20  parts  yield  at  least  12  parts,  of  extract.  The 
addition  of  glycerin  is  intended  to  retard  the  formation  of  gallic  acid.  The  tincture  has 
a yellowish-brown  color,  a strongly  astringent  taste,  and  an  acid  reaction,  and  yields  blue- 
black  precipitates  with  ferric  salts.  # I 

Uses. — Tincture  of  nutgall  is  seldom  given  internally,  but  is  sometimes  used,  diluted 
with  water,  as  a lotion  in  relaxed  conditions  of  the  mouth  and  fauces,  of  the  rectum,  and 
of  the  vagina.  Dose , from  Gm.  2-8  (f^ss-ij). 


TINCTURA  GELSEMII. — TINCT  UR  A GUAIACI. 


1621 


TINCTURA  GELSEMH,  U.  S.,  Br. — Tincture  of  Gelsemium. 

Teinture  de  gelsemium , Fr. ; Gelsemiumtinktur , G. 

Preparation. — Gelsemium,  in  No.  60  powder,  150  Gm. ; Alcohol,  Water,  each  a 
sufficient  quantity ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  alcohol  and  water  in  the  proportion  of  650  Cc. 
of  alcohol  to  350  Cc.  of  water.  Having  moistened  the  powder  with  100  Cc.  of  the 
menstruum,  macerate  for  twenty -four  hours ; then  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  perco- 
lator, and  gradually  pour  menstruum  upon  it  until  1000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained. — 
U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  gelsemium  use  5 av.  ozs.  of  gelsemium,  and  moisten 
the  powder  with  31  fluidounces  of  the  menstruum  (alcohol  65  volumes,  water  35  vol- 
umes). 

The  tincture  is  of  a brown-yellow  color,  becomes  milky  with  water,  and  has  the  aro- 
matic odor  and  bitter  taste  of  the  drug.  A somewhat  weaker  alcohol,  spec.  grav.  0.912, 
ordered  by  the  French  Codex  for  preparing  extract  of  gelsemium , appears  to  be  too  aque- 
ous for  conveniently  exhausting  all  the  desirable  principles.  The  Br.  P.  orders  gelsemium 
21  ounces,  proof-spirit  20  fluidounces. 

Uses. — This  preparation  represents  all  the  virtues  and  all  the  dangers  of  gelsemium. 
It  may  be  prescribed  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.60  (n^x),  and  gradually  increased. 

TINCTURA  GENTIANS  COMPOSITA,  77.  S.9  Br.— Compound  Tinc- 
ture of  Gentian. 

Preparation. — Gentian,  100  Gm. ; Bitter  Orange-peel,  40  Gm. ; Cardamom,  10  Gm. ; 
Alcohol,  Water,  each  a sufficient  quantity ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  gentian,  orange- 
peel,  and  cardamom,  and  reduce  the  mixture  to  a moderately  coarse  (No.  40)  powder. 
Mix  alcohol  and  water  in  the  proportion  of  600  Cc.  of  alcohol  and  400  Cc.  of  water. 
Having  moistened  the  powder  with  100  Cc.  of  menstruum,  macerate  for  twenty -four 
hours ; then  pack  it  in  a cylindrical  percolator,  and  gradually  pour  menstruum  upon  it 
until  1000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  compound  tincture  of  gentian  use  3 av.  ozs.  and  148  grains  of 
gentian,  1 av.  oz.  and  246  grains  of  bitter  orange-peel,  and  146  grains  of  cardamom,  and 
moisten  the  mixed  powders  with  31  fluidounces  of  the  menstruum  (alcohol  6 volumes, 
water  4 volumes). 

The  British  Pharmacopoeia  prepares  1 pint  (Imperial)  of  tincture  from  gentian  1J 
ounces,  bitter  orange-peel  f ounce,  and  1 ounce  (av.)  of  cardamom-seeds  deprived  of  the 
pericarps,  using  sufficient  proof-spirit. 

The  tincture  has  a brown-yellow  color,  an  agreeable  aromatic  odor,  and  a bitter  taste. 
It  acquires  with  ferric  salts  a dark  black-brown  color. 

Allied  Tinctures. — Tinctura  gentians  alkalina. — Teinture  de  gentiane  alcaline  (stomach- 
ique).  Elixir  amer  de  Peyrylhe,  F.  Cod. — Gentian  10  parts,  crystallized  sodium  carbonate  3 
parts,  alcohol  (sp.  grav.  0.912)  300  parts. 

Tinctura  gentians. — Tincture  of  gentian,  E.;  Teinture  de  gentiane,  Fr. ; Enziantinktur,  G. — 
Macerate  gentian  1 part  in  5 parts  of  alcohol  spec.  grav.  0.912  (F.  Cod.),  (sp.  grav.  0.894,  P.  G.). 

Uses. — This  tincture  is  a very  agreeable  bitter  and  an  efficient  stomachic  in  cases  of 
feeble  digestion.  It  is  especially  adapted  to  improve  the  tone  of  the  stomach  exhausted 
by  the  abuse  of  alcoholic  drinks.  The  dose  is  Gm.  4—8  (f^j-ij).  The  addition  of  sodium 
bicarbonate  to  a watery  dilution  of  the  officinal  tincture  is  preferable  to  the  tincture  of 
the  Fr.  Codex. 

TINCTURA  GUAIACI,  77.  S.,  B.  .4.— Tincture  of  Guaiac. 

Teinture  de  resine  de  gayac , Fr.  ; Guaja/ctin  ktur,  G. 

Preparation. — Guaiac,  in  coarse  powder,  200  Gm. ; Alcohol  a sufficient  quantity; 
to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  powder  with  800  Cc.  of  alcohol,  and  macerate  for  seven  days 
in  a closed  vessel ; then  filter  through  paper,  adding,  through  the  filter,  enough  alcohol 
to  make  the  tincture  measure  1000  Cc. — IT.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  guaiac  use  6 av.  ozs.  and  296  grains  of  guaiac  resin, 
macerate  with  25 \ fluidounces  of  alcohol  for  seven  days,  and  after  filtering  wash  the 
filter  with  sufficient  alcohol  to  make  32  fluidounces  of  tincture. 

Since  guaiac  resin  dissolves  completely  in  alcohol  with  the  exception  of  the  impurities, 
the  tincture  is  conveniently  made  by  maceration.  The  tincture  has  been  dismissed  from 


1622 


TINCTURA  GUAIACI  AMMONIA  TA.-TINCTURA  IIUMULI. 


the  German  Pharmacopoeia ; that  of  the  French  Codex  (1  part  resin  to  5 parts  alcohol, 
sp.  gr.  0.863)  is  weaker.  The  tincture  has  a dark  brownish-red  color,  is  precipitated  by 
water,  and  is  colored  green  or  blue  by  ferric  chloride  and  other  agents. 

Allied  Tincture. — Tinctura  guaiaci  ligni.— Tincture  of  guaiacum-wood,  E. ; Teinture  de 
gayac,  Fr. — Macerate  for  ten  days  guaiacum-wood  10  parts  in  alcohol  (spec.  gray.  0.912)  50  parts  ; 
express  and  filter. — Fr.  Cod. 

Uses. — The  tincture  may  be  used  in  most  of  the  cases  to  which  other  preparations 
of  guaiacum  are  adapted,  but  especially  in  chronic  fibrous  rheumatism  and  in  scanty  or 
painful  menstruation.  It  has  been  especially  recommended  in  tonsillitis.  The  ammoniated 
tincture  is  in  general  to  be  preferred,  and  may  be  employed  as  a gargle  in  the  proportion 
of  1 fluidrachm  to  2 fluidounces  of  water.  Both  tinctures,  being  decomposed  by  water, 
should  be  administered  internally  in  mucilage  or  syrup.  Dose,  Gm.  4-8  (f^j-ij)  several 
times  a day. 

TINCTURA  GUAIACI  AMMONIATA,  U.  S.,  Br. — Ammoniated  Tinc- 
ture of  Guaiac. 

Teinture  de  gayac  ammoniac  ale,  Fr.  ; Ammoniakalische  GuajahtinJctur , G. 

Preparation. — Guaiac,  in  coarse  powder,  200  Gm. ; Aromatic  Spirit  of  Ammonia 
a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  powder  with  800  Cc.  of  aromatic  spirit 
of  ammonia,  and  macerate  for  seven  days  in  a closed  vessel ; then  filter  through  paper, 
adding,  through  the  filter,  aromatic  spirit  of  ammonia  until  1000  Cc.  of  tincture  are 
obtained. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  ammoniated  tincture  of  guaiac  macerate  6 av.  ozs.  and  296  grains 
of  guaiac  resin  with  25J  fluidounces  of  aromatic  spirit  of  ammonia  for  seven  days,  and 
after  filtering  wash  the  filter  with  sufficient  menstruum  to  make  32  fluidounces  of  tinc- 
ture. 

Guaiacum  resin  in  powder  4 oz.  av.,  aromatic  spirit  of  ammonia  sufficient  for  1 pint 
(Imperial). — Br. 

The  two  formulas  yield  practically  identical  tinctures,  which  resemble  tincture  of 
guaiac  in  appearance,  but  have  an  ammoniacal  odor  and  taste. 

Allied  Tincture. — Dewees’s  Tincture  of  Guaiacum.  Digest  for  a few  days  powdered  guai- 
acum resin  4 ounces,  sodium  or  potassium  carbonate  90  grains,  powdered  pimento  1 ounce,  in 
diluted  alcohol  1 pint.  Add  spirit  of  ammonia,  if  required,  in  the  proportion  of  1 or  2 drachms 
to  each  4 fluidounces  of  the  tincture. 

Uses. — The  uses  of  this  preparation  are  the  same  as  those  of  the  simple  tincture. 
It  may  be  applied  locally  in  tonsillitis  by  means  of  a brush.  The  ammonia  it  contains 
may  possibly  promote  the  curative  effects  of  the  resin.  At  all  events,  the  ammoniated 
tincture  is  generally  preferred.  Dose , Gm.  4—8  (f^j-ij). 

Dewees  claimed  that  in  idiopathic  amenorrhoea  of  long  standing  he  had  for  more  than 
forty  years  almost  daily  used  the  preparation  which  bears  his  name,  without  its  having 
failed  in  any  case  proper  for  its  use.  He  prescribed  a teaspoonful  of  it  three  times  a 
day  in  a wine-glassful  of  milk  or  white  wine. 

TINCTURA  HUMULI,  U.  Tincture  of  Hops. 

Tinctura  lupuli , Br.  ; Teinture  de  hublon , Fr. ; Hopfentinktur , G. 

Preparation. — Hops,  well  dried  and  in  No.  20  powder,  200  Gm. ; Diluted  Alcohol 
a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  400  Cc.  of  diluted 
alcohol,  and  macerate  for  twenty-four  hours ; then  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  perco- 
lator, and  gradually  pour  diluted  alcohol  upon  it  until  1000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained. 

— U.  s. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  hops  use  6 av.  ozs.  and  296  grains  of  well-dried  hops, 
and  moisten  with  12  fluidounces  of  the  menstruum  (diluted  alcohol). 

The  British  tincture  of  hop  is  about  one-third  weaker,  and  is  made  from  2£  ounces  av. 
of  hop,  with  sufficient  proof-spirit  to  obtain  1 pint  (Imperial). 

Hops  should  not  be  dried  by  artificial  heat ; when  air-dry,  they  may  be  conveniently 
reduced  to  powder  by  grinding  them  together  with  some  clean  sand  in  an  ordinary  drug- 
mill  ; when  unground,  they  are  un suited  for  percolation,  and  so  bulky  that  in  preparing 
the  tincture  by  maceration  most  of  the  liquid  is  absorbed,  necessitating  the  frequent  agi- 
tation of  the  mixture  and  afterward  its  forcible  expression.  The  tincture  is  of  a yellow- 


TINCTURA  HYDRASTIS.— TINCTURA  IODI. 


1623 


ish-brown  color,  and  bas  tbe  odor  and  bitter  taste  of  hop,  though  in  less  degree  than  the 
tincture  of  lupulin,  which  has  been  dismissed  from  the  Pharmacopoeia. 

Uses. — The  proportion  of  hops  or  of  lupulin  in  the  average  dose  of  this  tincture  is 
too  small  to  produce  much  effect  beyond  that  of  the  alcohol  it  contains.  A draught  of 
good  malt  liquor  would  generally  be  preferable.  The  dose  is  Gm.  4-12  (%j-iij). 

TINCTURA  HYDRASTIS,  U.  8.,  Br.  Add.— Tincture  of  Hydrastis. 

Teinture  de  hydrastis,  Fr, ; Hydrastistinktur , G. 

Preparation. — Hydrastis,  in  No.  60  powder,  200  Gm.  ; Diluted  Alcohol  a sufficient 
quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  150  Cc.  of  diluted  alcohol,  and 
macerate  for  twenty-four  hours ; then  pack  it  in  a cylindrical  percolator,  and  gradually 
pour  diluted  alcohol  upon  it  until  1000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  hydrastis  moisten  6 av.  ozs.  and  296  grains  of  hydrastis 
in  powder  with  5 fluidounces  of  diluted  alcohol,  and  percolate  with  the  same  menstruum 
after  due  maceration. 

Hydrastis  rhizome,  in  No.  60  powder,  2 ounces,  proof-spirit  sufficient  to  make  1 pint 
(Imperial)  of  tincture. — Br.  Add. 

The  tincture  has  a brown-yellow  color  and  bitter  taste.  A menstruum  of  alcohol  2 
volumes  and  water  1 volume  would,  we  think,  material^  improve  the  preparation. 

Uses. — Probably  this  tincture  fully  represents  hydrastis.  Its  dose  is  yet  to  be  deter- 
mined, but  provisionally  may  be  stated  at  Gm.  4 (f^j ) . 

TINCTURA  HYOSCYAMI,  U.  8.,  Br.— Tincture  of  Hyoscyamus. 

Teinture  de  jusquiame , Fr. ; Bilsenkrauttinktur , G. 

Preparation. — Hyoscyamus,  recently  dried  and  in  No.  60  powder,  150  Gm.  ; 
Diluted  Alcohol  a sufficient  quantity ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with 
150  Cc.  of  diluted  alcohol,  and  macerate  for  twenty-four  hours  ; then  pack  it  firmly  in 
a cylindrical  percolator,  and  gradually  pour  diluted  alcohol  upon  it  until  1000  Cc.  of 
tincture  are  obtained. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  hyoscyamus  use  5 av.  ozs.  of  hyoscyamus-leaves,  and 
moisten  with  5 fluidounces  of  the  menstruum  (diluted  alcohol). 

Hyoscyamus-leaves,  in  coarse  powder,  2\  oz.  av.,  proof-spirit  sufficient  for  1 Imperial 
pint. — Br.  Hyoscyamus  1 part,  alcohol  (sp.  grav.  0.912)  5 parts. — F.  Cod. 

The  tincture  is  greenish-brown,  and  has  the  narcotic  odor  of  the  leaves  and  a bitter 
taste. 

Uses. — The  tincture  is  generally  believed  to  contain  all  the  virtues  of  hyoscyamus, 
and  is  directed  to  be  given  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  2-4  (fgss-j).  But,  according  to  Mr. 
Boulter’s  experiments  ( St . Bartholomew's  Reports , xv.  224),  the  tinctures  of  the  leaves 
and  seeds  are  practically  quite  useless,  although  they  occasion  some  dilatation  of  the 
pupils  and  render  the  pulse  weak,  irregular,  and  intermittent.  The  tincture  of  the  root, 
on  the  other  hand,  in  doses  of  from  i to  2 fluidrachms,  produced  dryness  of  the  mouth 
and  fauces,  dilated  pupils,  with  thirst,  flushed  face,  cracked  lips,  and  sometimes  delirium. 
A woman  who  swallowed  about  6 drachms  of  the  tincture  (B.  P.),  soon  followed  by 
emetics,  presented  these  symptoms,  besides  paresis  of  the  limbs.  On  the  following  day 
recovery  was  complete  (j Brit.  Med.  Jour .,  Sept.  12,  1889). 

TINCTURA  IODI,  U.  S.,  Br .,  F.  Cod.,  F.  G.,  P.  A.—1 Tincture  of 

Iodine. 

Tinctura  iodinii. — Teinture  d'iode , Fr. ; Jodtinktur , G.  ; Tintura  de  Yodo , Sp. 

Preparation. — Iodine  70  Gm.;  Alcohol  a sufficient  quantity;  to  make  1000  Cc. 
Triturate  the  iodine  rapidly  in  a mortar  to  a coarse  powder,  and  transfer  it  at  once  to  a 
graduated  bottle.  Rinse  the  mortar  with  several  successive  portions  of  alcohol,  and  pour 
the  rinsings  into  the  bottle.  Then  add  enough  alcohol,  shaking  the  bottle  occasionally 
until  the  iodine  is  dissolved  and  the  finished  tincture  measures  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  iodine  dissolve  2 av.  ozs.  and  147  grains  of  iodine  in 
sufficient  alcohol  to  obtain  32  fluidounces  of  solution. 

Iodine  ? oz.  av.,  potassium  iodide  \ oz.  av.,  rectified  spirit  1 pint  (Imperial). — Br. 
Iodine  1 part,  alcohol  (spec.  grav.  0.833)  12  parts,  F.  Cod.  (10  parts,  P.  GA). 

The  tincture  has  a deep  brown-red  color  and  the  odor  of  iodine,  evaporates  completely 
without  leaving  any  fixed  residue  (that  of  Br.  P.  leaves  KI),  and  yields  a precipitate  of 


1624 


TINCTURA  IPECACUANHA  ET  OPII. 


iodine  on  being  mixed  with  water.  The  iodine  gradually  reacts  with  alcohol  at  ordinary 
temperatures,  and  more  rapidly  at  a somewhat  elevated  temperature,  resulting  in  the  for- 
mation of  hydriodic  acid  and  other  compounds,  which  prevent  the  precipitation  by  water 
of  some  of  the  iodine.  According  to  Guibourt,  after  the  tincture  has  been  kept  on  hand 
for  about  eighteen  months  it  is  scarcely  rendered  turbid  by  water.  The  tincture  should 
therefore  be  made  in  moderate  quantities  only,  or,  according  to  Castelhaz  (1882),  may  be 
preserved  of  proper  strength  by  the  addition  of  £ of  1 per  cent,  of  potassium  iodate, 
which  salt  is  insoluble  in  alcohol  and  regenerates  iodine  from  the  hydriodic  acid  formed ; 
at  the  same  time,  however,  a corresponding  quantity  of  iodate  is  converted  into  iodide ; 
KI03  4-  6HI  yields  3I2  + KI  + 3H20.  According  to  Pavesi  (1883),  chloral  hydrate 
dissolves  in  tincture  of  iodine  without  decomposition,  and  renders  it  miscible  with  water 
without  precipitation.  The  tincture  should  be  kept  in  well-stoppered  bottles  to  prevent 
the  evaporation  of  alcohol. 

Tests. — “ 6.33  Gm.  of  the  tincture,  mixed  with  a solution  of  2 Gm.  of  potassium 
iodide  in  25  Cc.  of  water  and  a little  gelatinized  starch,  should  require  for  complete 
decoloration  35  Cc.  of  decinormal  sodium  thiosulphate  solution.” — U.  S.  This  test  indi- 
cates 7 Gm.  of  iodine  in  100  Cc.,  and  is  perfectly  correct  for  the  freshly-prepared  tincture, 
but  entirely  too  rigorous  for  that  which  has  been  kept  on  hand  for  some  time.  The  same 
test  has  been  adopted  by  the  P.  G. ; but,  while  the  freshly-made  tincture  contains  9.09 
per  cent,  of  free  iodine,  the  tincture  is  regarded  as  being  of  good  quality  if  the  iodine 
has  been  reduced  to  8.78  per  cent.  The  French  Codex  directs  the  tincture  to  be  recently 
made,  without  further  indicating  the  limit  of  time. 

Allied  Tinctures. — Tinctura  iodi  decolorata,  N.  F.,  Decolorized  tincture  of  iodine. — Digest 
610  grains  each  of  iodine  and  sodium  thiosulphate  with  1^  fluidounces  of  distilled  water  at  a 
gentle  heat  until  a perfect  solution  is  obtained.  Then  add  2 fluidounces  of  alcohol,  and  after- 
ward 1 fluidounce  of  stronger  ammonia- water.  Shake  until  the  liquid  has  become  colorless ; 
cool  and  add  enough  alcohol  to  make  16  fluidounces.  Set  aside  in  a cold  place  for  a few  hours 
and  filter.  The  solution  contains  ammonium  iodide,  ethyl  iodide,  C2II5I,  triethylamine  hydro- 
iodide, N(C2H5)3HI,  together  with  sodium  iodide,  sulphate,  and  tetrathionate : a crystalline  pre- 
cipitate of  the  latter  salt  is  apt  to  form  upon  standing  for  some  time.  It  has  an  ethereal,  freely 
ammoniacal  odor.  A less  complex  solution  is  obtained  by  the  formula  of  Dr.  Curtman  (1869): 
iodine  10  drachms,  alcohol  13  fluidounces,  stronger  ammonia-water  3 fluidounces.  But  about 
twenty-seven  days  are  required  to  effect  complete  decoloration. 

Tinctura  iodi  ( Churchill ),  N.  F.,  Churchill’s  tincture  of  iodine. — Dissolve  240  grains  of  potas- 
sium iodide  in  4 ounces  of  distilled  water,  add  1200  grains  of  iodine,  and,  lastly,  enough  alcohol 
to  make  the  tincture  measure  16  fluidounces.  (Churchill's  tincture  of  iodine  must  not  be  con- 
founded with  Churchill’s  iodine  caustic.  See  Liquor  iodi  causticus,  page  970.) 

Tinctura  iodinii  composita,  Compound  tincture  of  iodine.  Dissolve  iodine  240  grains  and 
potassium  iodide  480  grains  in  alcohol  1 pint. — U.  S.  1870.  This  tincture  resembles  the 
simple  tincture  of  iodine  in  appearance,  but  differs  from  it  in  being  miscible  with  water  without 
causing  precipitation.  The  British  Tinctura  iodi  likewise  contains  potassium  iodide,  but  in 
insufficient  quantity  to  prevent  its  precipitation  by  water,  at  least  when  recently  made. 

Uses. — These  are  set  forth  at  length  under  Iodum.  This  preparation  is  unsuited  for 
internal  administration,  since  the  addition  of  water  precipitates  its  iodine.  The  close  of 
the  simple  tincture  is  stated  to  be  Gm.  0.30—1  (rffiv— xv). 

Decolorized  tincture  of  iodine  is,  as  above  pointed  out,  no  longer  a tincture  of  iodine, 
and  is  practically  of  no  more  value  as  a local  discutient  than  a solution  of  iodide  of 
sodium  or  ammonium  in  water. 

The  compound  tincture  (1870)  is  not  precipitated  by  water,  and  is  also  more  perma- 
nent than  the  simple  tincture,  as  well  as  less  irritating  and  more  absorbable.  It  is  greatly 
to  be  preferred  for  internal  use.  The  dose  is  Gm.  0.60-2  (gtt.  x-xxx),  largely  diluted 
with  water  or  some  mild  liquid. 

TINOTURA  IPECACUANHA  ET  OPH,  IT.  Tincture  of  Ipecac  and 

Opium. 

Preparation. — Deodorized  Tincture  of  Opium  1000  Cc. ; Fluid  Extract  of  Ipecac 
100  Cc.  ; Diluted  Alcohol  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Evaporate  the  deo- 
dorized tincture  of  opium  on  a water-bath  until  it  weighs  800  Gm.  When  it  has  become 
cold  add  to  it  the  fluid  extract  of  ipecac  ; filter  the  mixture  and  pass  enough  diluted  alcohol 
through  the  filter  to  make  the  tincture  measure  1000  Cc. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  ipecac  and  opium  evaporate  32  fluidounces  of  deodor- 
ized tincture  of  opium  down  to  25  fluidounces,  and  when  cold  add  3 fluidounces  and  96 


TINCTURA  J A LA  PJE.— TINCT  UR  A KRAMERIM . 


1625 


minims  of  fluid  extract  of  ipecac  ; filter  and  pass  enough  diluted  alcohol  through  the  filter 
to  make  32  fluidounces. 

This  tincture  has  been  admitted  into  the  Pharmacopoeia  to  take  the  place  of  similar 
preparations  which  have  been  used  to  some  extent  under  the  designation  of  tincture  of 
Dover's  powder. 

Uses. — The  virtues  of  this  preparation,  which  is  apparently  intended  to  present  Dover’s 
powder  in  a liquid  form,  are  not  very  evident.  If,  as  generally  has  been  supposed,  the 
gradual  solution  and  absorption  of  the  opium  and  ipecac  in  that  preparation  has  much  to 
do  with  its  diaphoretic  operation,  then  in  the  liquid  form  the  object  is  less  likely  to  be 
attained.  And  it  is  difficult  to  understand  why  an  extemporaneous  mixture  of  deodor- 
ized tincture  of  opium  and  wine  of  ipecac  would  not  have  answered  the  same  purpose  as 
this  officinal  formula. 

TINCTURA  JALAPiE,  JBr, — Tincture  of  Jalap. 

Teinture  de  jalap , Fr.  ; Jalapentinktur , G. 

Preparation. — Macerate  and  displace  coarsely-powdered  jalap  2£  oz.  av.  with  suffi- 
cient proof-spirit  to  obtain  1 pint  (Imperial). — Br. 

Jalap  1 part,  alcohol  (sp.  grav.  0.912)  5 parts. — F.  Cod. 

Uses. — This  tincture  is  seldom  used  except  as  an  addition  to  other  purgative  liquids. 
The  dose  is  Gm.  2-8  (f^ss-ij). 

TINCTURA  KINO,  U.  S Hr. — Tincture  of  Kino. 

Teinture  de  kino,  Fr. ; Kinotinktur,  G. 

Preparation. — Kino  100  Gm.  ; Glycerin  150  Cc. ; Water  200  Cc.  ; Alcohol  a suf- 
ficient quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  glycerin  with  the  water  and  650  Cc.  of  alco- 
hol. Rub  the  kino  in  a mortar,  adding  gradually  a sufficient  quantity  of  menstruum  until 
a smooth  paste  is  made  ; transfer  this  to  a bottle,  add  the  remainder  of  the  menstruum, 
and  macerate  for  twenty-four  hours,  occasionally  shaking  the  bottle ; then  filter  through 
paper,  adding,  through  the  filter,  enough  alcohol  to  make  the  tincture  measure  1000  Cc. 
Keep  the  tincture  in  well-stoppered  bottles. — TJ.  JS. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  kino  use  3 av.  ozs.  and  148  grains  of  kino,  4f  fluid- 
ounces  of  glycerin,  6f  fluidounces  of  water,  and  sufficient  alcohol  to  make  32  fluid- 
ounces. 

Kino  in  coarse  powder  2 ounces  ; glycerin  3 fluidounces  ; distilled  water  5 fluidounces  ; 
rectified  spirit  12  fluidounces.  Macerate  for  seven  days  in  a closed  vessel,  with 
occasional  agitation  ; filter  and  add  sufficient  alcohol  to  make  1 pint  (Imperial). — Br. 
Macerate  for  ten  days  kino  1 part  with  alcohol  (sp.  grav.  0.913)  5 parts,  and  filter. — F. 
Cod. 

Tincture  of  kino  is  conveniently  prepared  by  maceration,  and  has  a dark  brown-red 
color.  Made  with  alcohol  and  properly  preserved,  it  will  remain  limpid,  but  if  made 
with  diluted  alcohol  it  will  gradually  lose  its  astringency  and  become  gelatinous.  Accord- 
ing to  P.  P.  Fo£  (1877),  this  may  be  prevented,  without  increasing  the  alcoholic  strength, 
by  replacing  one-half  of  the  water  with  an  equal  measure  of  glycerin — a fact  noticed  by 
Haselden  as  early  as  1860  ; and  this  is  substantially  the  process  adopted  by  the  present 
U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia.  The  employment  of  magnesia,  logwood,  and  other  foreign  substances 
with  the  same  end  in  view  is  objectionable  and  unnecessary.  The  origin  of  kino,  and 
probably  also  its  age,  may  influence  the  tendency  to  gelatinize. 

In  our  experience  tincture  of  kino  keeps  remarkably  well  if  preserved  in  small  vials,  so 
as  to  avoid  frequent  exposure  to  the  air:  we  have  kept  the  tincture  in  well-corked  2- 
ounce  vials  for  over  a year  without  observing  the  slightest  change. 

Uses. — This  tincture  is  used  for  most  of  the  internal  purposes  of  kino  in  the  dose  of 
Gm.  4-8  (fgj-ij). 

TINCTURA  KRAMERL33,  TJ.  S.,  Hr. — Tincture  of  Krameria. 

Tinctura  ratanhise,  P.  G.,  P.  A. — Tincture  of  rhatany , E. ; Teinture  de  ratanhia,  Fr.  ; 
Ratanhiatinktur , G. 

Preparation. — Krameria,  in  No.  40  powder,  200  Gm. ; Diluted  Alcohol  a sufficient 
quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  200  Cc  of  diluted  alcohol,  and 
macerate  for  twenty-four  hours;  then  pack  it  in  a cylindrical  percolator,  and  gradually 
pour  diluted  alcohol  upon  it  until  1000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained. — TJ.  S. 


1626 


TINCTURA  LA CTUCA RII.— TINCTURA  LARTCIS. 


To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  rhatany  use  6 av.  oz.  and  296  grains  of  krameria,  and 
moisten  with  62  fluidounces  of  the  menstruum  (diluted  alcohol). 

Rhatany  21  oz.  av.,  proof  spirit  sufficient  for  1 pint  (Imperial). — Br.  Macerate  rhat- 
any 1 part  in  5 parts  of  alcohol  sp.  gray.  0.912,  F.  Cod.  (sp.  grav.  0.894,  P.  G .). 

This  tincture  has  a brown-red  color  and  a strongly  astringent  taste.  After  having  been 
kept  in  partly-filled  bottles  it  deposits  rhatany-red,  and  occasionally  gelatinizes.  It  is 
therefore  best  prepared  in  small  quantities.  In  our  experience  tincture  of  rhatany  keeps 
very  much  better  if  the  menstruum  contains  about  one-eighth  of  its  volume  of  glycerin. 

Uses. — This  is  the  form  in  which  rhatany  is  perhaps  more  frequently  used  than  any 
other  astringent  in  the  treatment  of  subacute  diarrhoea.  For  this  purpose  it  is  usually 
added  to  the  chalk  mixture.  Diluted  with  water,  it  forms  a very  useful  mouth-wash  when 
the  gums  are  spongy.  It  has  also  been  reputed  serviceable  in  atonic  menorrhagia  and  in 
other  forms  of  passive  haemorrhage.  The  dose  is  Gm.  4-8  (fgj-ij). 

TINCTURA  LACTUCARII,  IT.  S. — Tincture  of  Lactucarium. 

Teinture  de  lactucarium , Fr. ; Lactucariumtinktur , G. 

Preparation. — Lactucarium,  500  Gm.  ; Glycerin  250  Cc. ; Water,  Alcohol,  Benzin, 
Diluted  Alcohol,  each  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Beat  the  lactucarium,  in 
an  iron  mortar,  with  clear  sand,  to  a coarse  powder,  and  introduce  it  into  a bottle ; add 
2000  Cc.  of  benzin,  tightly  cork  the  bottle,  and  set  it  aside  for  forty-eight  hours,  fre- 
quently agitating  the  mixture.  Pour  the  mixture  on  a double  filter,  and  allow  it  to 
drain.  Wash  the  dregs  by  gradually  adding  1500  Cc.  of  benzin.  Allow  the  lactucarium 
to  dry  by  exposing  it  to  a current  of  air.  When  it  is  dry  reduce  it  to  a powder,  using 
more  sand  if  necessary,  and  pack  it  moderately  in  a conical  percolator.  Mix  the 
glycerin  with  200  Cc.  of  water  and  500  Cc.  of  alcohol,  and  moisten  the  powder  with  500 
Cc.  of  the  mixture.  When  the  liquid  begins  to  drop  from  the  percolator,  close  the  lower 
orifice,  and,  having  closely  covered  the  percolator,  macerate  for  twenty-four  hours.  Then 
allow  the  percolation  to  proceed  very  slowly,  gradually  adding,  first,  the  remainder  of  the 
menstruum,  and  then  diluted  alcohol,  until  the  lactucarium  is  exhausted.  Reserve  the 
first  750  Cc.  of  the  percolate,  evaporate  the  remainder  on  a water-bath  at  a temperature 
not  exceeding  71°  C.  (160°  F.)  to  250  Cc.,  and  mix  with  the  reserved  portion.  Filter, 
and  add  enough  diluted  alcohol  through  the  filter  to  make  the  product  measure  1000  Cc. 
— IT.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  lactucarium  reduce  16  av.  ozs.  and  303  grains  of  lactu- 
carium to  a coarse  powder  with  sand,  treat  with  4 pints  of  benzin  for  forty-eight  hours, 
filter,  and  wash  dregs  well  with  3 pints  of  benzin.  Dry  the  residue  in  air,  reduce  to  pow- 
der, and  percolate  as  directed  above,  using  first  a mixture  of  8 fluidounces  of  glycerin,  61 
fluidounces  of  water,  and  16  fluidounces  of  alcohol,  and,  finally,  diluted  alcohol ; reserve 
the  first  24  fluidounces  of  percolate,  and  evaporate  the  balance  down  to  8 fluidounces. 
Mix  and  filter. 

Since  tincture  of  lactucarium  is  intended  chiefly  for  the  preparation  of  the  syrup,  it  is 
desirable  that  a liquid  be  obtained  which  shall  give  a clear  mixture  with  syrup,  and  as 
lactucarium  contains  objectionable  inert  matter  in  the  form  of  caoutchouc,  the  treatment 
with  benzin  (suggested  by  Lemberger  in  1875)  is  directed  for  its  removal.  The  subse- 
quent percolation  of  the  powder  mixed  with  sand  presents  no  difficulty,  as  the  active 
bitter  principles  are  soluble  in  the  menstruum  ordered,  but  the  percolate  should 
be  collected  in  very  slow  drops.  Each  Cc.  of  the  tincture  represents  0.5  Gm.  of  the 
drug. 

Uses. — This  alcoholic  preparation  of  lactucarium  is  quite  as  valueless  and  more  objec- 
tionable than  the  syrup  of  the  same  drug. 

TINCTURA  LARICIS,  Br.— Tincture  of  Larch. 

Teinture  d'ecorce  de  meleze , Fr. ; Larchenrindentinktur,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Larcli-bark,  in  No.  40  powder,  21  oz.  av. ; Rectified  Spirit  1 
pint.  Prepare  1 pint  (Imperial)  of  tincture  by  the  formula  given  under  Tincturje. — Br. 

This  tincture  has  a red-brown  color,  and  should  be  carefully  preserved  like  other 
astringent  tinctures. 

Uses. — Tincture  of  larch-bark  is  not  employed  in  this  country.  It  has  been  used  in 
England  as  a remedy  for  passive  haemorrhages,  purpura,  and  chronic  bronchitis.  The  dose 
is  Gm.  1.30-2  (npxx-xxx). 


TINCTURA  LAVANDULAE  COM  POSIT  A .— TINCT  UR  A LOBELIjE.  1627 


TINCTURA  LAVANDULAE  COMPOSITA,  U.  8.,  Br.— Compound 

Tincture  of  Lavender. 

Spii'itus  lavandulse  compositus. — Compound  spirit  of  lavender , Lavender  drops,  E. ; Tein- 
ture  de  lavande  composee,  Fr. ; Zusammengesetzte  Lavendeltinktur,  G. 

Preparation. — Oil  of  lavender  8 Cc. ; Oil  of  Rosemary  2 Cc. ; Cinnamon,  in  coarse 
powder,  20  6m. ; Cloves  5 6m. ; Nutmeg  10  Gm. ; Red  Saunders,  in  coarse  powder,  10 
Gm. ; Alcohol  700  Cc.  ; Water  250  Cc. ; Diluted  Alcohol  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make 
1000  Cc.  Dissolve  the  oils  in  the  alcohol  and  add  the  water.  Crush  the  nutmeg  in  a 
mortar,  mix  it  with  the  cinnamon,  cloves,  and  red  saunders,  and  reduce  the  mixture  by 
grinding  to  a coarse  (No.  20)  powder.  Moisten  the  mixture  with  a sufficient  quantity  of 
the  alcoholic  solution  of  the  oils,  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator,  gradually  pour 
upon  it  the  remainder  of  the  alcoholic  solution  and  afterward  sufficient  diluted  alcohol, 
until  1000  Cc.  of  the  tincture  are  obtained. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  compound  tincture  of  lavender  use  292  grains  of  cassia  cinnamon, 
73  grains  of  cloves,  146  grains  each  of  nutmeg  and  red  saunders,  120  minims  of  oil  of 
lavender-flowers,  30  minims  of  oil  of  rosemary,  23  fluidounces  of  alcohol,  7 1 fluidounces  of 
water,  and  diluted  alcohol  a sufficient  quantity. 

Take  of  oil  of  lavender  1£  fluidrachms  ; oil  of  rosemary  10  minims;  cinnamon-bark, 
bruised,  nutmeg,  bruised,  each  150  grains  ; red  sandal-wood  300  grains ; rectified  spirit  2 
pints  (Imperial).  Macerate  the  cinnamon,  nutmeg,  and  red  sandal-wood  in  the  spirit  for 
seven  days  in  a closed  vessel,  with  occasional  agitation  ; then  strain  and  press,  dissolve  the 
oils  in  the  strained  tincture,  filter,  and  add  sufficient  rectified  spirit  to  make  2 pints. 
—Br. 

The  tincture  of  the  first  formula  is  stronger  in  volatile  oils  and  aromatics  than  that 
made  by  the  British  formula.  Both  have  a red  color,  form  opalescent  mixtures  with 
water,  and,  if  prepared  from  good  materials,  have  an  agreeable  odor  and  a strong  but 
pleasant  aromatic  taste. 

Uses. — Of  the  numerous  ingredients  in  this  popular  and  useful  compound,  oil  of 
lavender,  except  by  its  disproportionate  quantity,  is  one  of  the  least  active  and  effi- 
cient. It  is  universally  employed  in  this  country  as  a domestic  cordial  remedy  for 
nausea,  flatulent  colic,  and  gastric  distress  after  food.  It  is  most  conveniently  adminis- 
tered on  a lump  of  sugar  or  in  a little  hot  and  sweetened  water.  The  dose  is  Gm.  2-4 
(f3ss-j)- 


TINCTURA  LIMONIS,  Br. — Tincture  of  Lemon-peel. 

Teinture  de  zeste  de  citron  ( limon ),  Fr.  ; Citronenschalentinktur , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Fresh  Lemon-peel,  sliced  thin,  oz.  av. ; Proof  Spirit  1 
pint.  Macerate  for  seven  days  in  a closed  vessel,  with  occasional  agitation  ; strain,  press, 
and  filter;  then  add  sufficient  proof  spirit  to  make  1 pint  (Imperial). — Br. 

Uses. — Tincture  of  lemon-peel  is  used  for  flavoring  mixtures,  etc.  Dose,  Gm.  4 

Osj)- 

TINCTURA  LOBELLE,  U.  S.,  Br.,  P.  G.,  P.  A.. — Tincture  of 

Lobelia. 

Teinture  de  lobelie  enflee,  Fr  ; Lobeliatinktur,  G. 

Preparation.— Lobelia,  in  No.  40  powder,  200  Gm. ; Diluted  Alcohol  a sufficient 
quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  200  Cc.  of  diluted  alcohol,  and 
macerate  for  twenty -four  hours  ; then  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator,  and  grad- 
ually pour  diluted  alcohol  upon  it  until  1000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  lobelia  use  6 av.  ozs.  and  296  grains  of  lobelia,  and 
moisten  with  6|  fluidounces  of  the  menstruum  (diluted  alcohol). 

Lobelia  21  oz.  av.,  proof  spirit  sufficient  for  1 pint  (Imperial). — Br.  Lobelia  1 part, 
alcohol  (spec.  grav.  0.912)  5 parts. — F.  Cod.  Lobelia  1 part,  alcohol  (spec.  grav.  0.894) 
10  parts. — P.  G. 

The  tincture  is  of  a green-brown  color  and  has  a somewhat  heavy  odor  and  a bitter  and 
acrid  taste. 

Uses. — Lobelia  is  most  frequently  prescribed  in  this  tincture  and  in  the  cases 
described  under  Lobelia.  Its  dose  as  an  expectorant  is  Gm.  0.60-4  (n^x-f^j).  In 
asthmatic  attacks  Gm.  4—8  (f^j— ij)  should  be  administered  every  half  hour  or  hour. 


1628 


TINCTURA  LOBELIJE  JETHEREA . — TINCTURA  MYRRHJE. 


TINCTURA  LOBELLE  iETHEREA,  Br. — Ethereal  Tincture  of 

Lobelia. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Lobelia,  in  coarse  powder,  2J  oz.  ay. ; Spirit  of  Ether  1 pint. 
Macerate  for  seven  days  in  a closed  vessel,  with  occasional  agitation  ; then  strain,  press, 
filter,  and  add  sufficient  spirit  of  ether  to  make  1 pint  (Imperial). — Br. 

It  is  of  a brownish-green  color. 

Uses. — This  preparation  is  perhaps  more  efficient  than  the  simple  tincture  in  asthma. 
The  dose  is  Gm.  0.60-2  (n^x-xxx). 

TINCTURA  MATICO,  U.  S. — Tincture  of  Matico. 

Teinture  de  matico , Fr. ; Maticotinktur , G. 

Preparation. — Matico,  in  No.  40  powder,  100  Gm. ; Diluted  Alcohol  a sufficient 
quantity ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  matico  with  100  Cc.  of  diluted  alcohol,  and 
macerate  for  twenty-four  hours ; then  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator,  and  grad- 
ually pour  diluted  alcohol  upon  it  until  1000  Cc.  are  obtained. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  matico  use  3 av.  ozs.  and  148  grains  of  matico,  and 
moisten  with  31  fluidounces  of  the  menstruum  (diluted  alcohol). 

This  tincture  is  of  about  one-tenth  the  strength  of  the  fluid  extract,  and,  being  made 
with  a weaker  alcohol,  is  of  a greenish-brown  color.  The  following  formula  yields  a 
brown-green  tincture : Matico  1 part,  alcohol  (spec.  grav.  0.863)  5 parts. — F.  Cod. 

Uses. — In  nearly  all  the  affections  in  which  matico  is  used  alcohol  is  contraindicated, 
and  hence  it  would  seem  that  the  already  officinal  fluid  extract  of  matico  was  sufficient 
without  a tincture.  Of  the  latter  preparation  the  dose  may  be  stated  at  Gm.  4-8 

(f3j-ij)- 


TINCTURA  MOSCHI,  U.  S .,  P.  G. — Tincture  op  Musk. 

Teinture  de  muse , Fr.  ; Moschustinktur , G. 

Preparation. — Musk  50  Gm. ; Alcohol  450  Cc. ; Water  450  Cc. ; Diluted  Alcohol  a 
sufficient  quantity ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Dub  the  musk  in  a mortar  first  with  a little  of 
the  water,  until  a smooth  mixture  is  made,  and  then  with  the  remainder  of  the  water. 
Transfer  the  whole  to  a bottle,  add  the  alcohol,  and  macerate  the  mixture  for  seven  days, 
occasionally  shaking  the  bottle.  Then  filter  through  paper,  adding  through  the  filter 
enough  diluted  alcohol  to  make  the  tincture  measure  1000  Cc.^-ZZ  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  musk  use  730  grains  of  musk,  141  fluidounces  each  of 
alcohol  and  water,  and  diluted  alcohol  a sufficient  quantity. 

Musk  10  parts,  alcohol  (spec.  grav.  0.863)  100  parts. — F.  Cod.  Musk  2 parts,  water 
and  alcohol  (spec.  grav.  0.894),  of  each  50  parts. — P.  G. 

The  manipulation  described  above  is  the  same  as  directed  by  the  German  Pharmaco- 
poeia, but  the  strength  of  the  alcohol  and  the  proportion  of  musk  differ  considerably. 
Strong  alcohol  gives  a light-brown  tincture,  which  becomes  slightly  opalescent  with 
water ; but  weak  alcohol  yields  a dark  reddish-brown  tincture,  which  has  a strong  musk 
odor  and  remains  clear  on  the  addition  of  water.  The  present  official  tincture  is  of  about 
one-half  the  strength  of  that  of  1880. 

Uses. — This  preparation  will  be  found  convenient  for  the  rare  occasions  in  which 
musk  is  used  medicinally.  The  alcoholic  menstruum  promotes  its  action.  10  minims 
of  the  tincture  contain  about  i grain  of  the  musk.  Bose , about  Gm.  8 (f^ij). 

TINCTURA  MYRRHiE,  U.  S.,  Br.,  P.  G.,  P.  A. — Tincture  of  Myrrh. 

Teinture  de  myrrhe , Fr. ; Myrrhentinktur , G. 

Preparation. — Myrrh,  in  moderately  coarse  powder,  200  Gm.;  Alcohol  a sufficient 
quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  powder  with  800  Cc.  of  alcohol,  and  macerate  for 
seven  days  in  a closed  vessel ; then  filter  through  paper,  adding  through  the  filter  enough 
alcohol  to  make  the  tincture  measure  1000  Cc. — TJ.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  myrrh  macerate  6 av.  ozs.  and  296  grains  of  myrrh 
with  25 £ fluidounces  of  alcohol  for  seven  days;  filter  and  pass  enough  alcohol  through 
the  filter  to  make  32  fluidounces  of  tincture. 

Myrrh  2J  oz.  av.,  rectified  spirit  sufficient  for  1 pint  (Imperial). — Br.  Myrrh  1 part, 
alcohol  spec.  grav.  0.863  (F.  Cod.)  (or  0.832  P.  G.)  5 parts. 

The  tincture  is  of  a brownish-yellow  or  reddish-yellow  color,  has  the  balsamic  odor  of 


TINCTURA  NUCIS  VOMICJE.— TINCTURA  OPII. 


1629 


myrrh  and  a bitter  aromatic  taste,  and  yields  a precipitate  of  resin  on  the  addition  of 
water.  E.  B.  Shuttleworth  (1871)  suggested  the  utilization  of  the  gum  left  on  preparing 
the  tincture  for  making  a mucilage,  by  dissolving  it  in  boiling  water,  straining,  and  allow- 
ing to  settle.  The  adhesive  properties  are  increased  by  the  addition  of  a small  quantity 
of  molasses. 

Uses. — Tincture  of  myrrh  is  seldom  given  internally,  but  it  may  be  prescribed  in  doses 
of  Gm.  2-4  (f^ss-j).  It  is  chiefly  used  as  a stimulant,  astringent,  and  protective  agent 
in  the  treatment  of  aphthae,  spongy  gums , relaxed  umda , aphthous  affections  of  the  vagina , 
etc.  In  these  cases  it  is  generally  diluted  with  water,  which  precipitates  its  resin.  Cam- 
pardon  (1879)  reports  that  “ whooping  cough  yields  easily  and  promptly  to  tincture  of 
myrrh  administered  in  ‘ wine  of  cinchona.’  ” He  prescribes  it  in  doses  of  10  drops  or  of 
5 drops  every  hour,  according  to  the  age  of  the  patient,  and  asserts  that  in  every  one  of 
numerous  cases  it  destroyed  the  spasmodic  element  of  the  cough  in  a few  days  (Bull,  de 
Therap .,  xcv.  193). 

TINCTURA  NUCIS  VOMICA,  U.  S.,  Br.— Tincture  of  Nux  Vomica. 

Tinctura  strychni,  P.  G.,  P.  A. — Teinture  de  noix  vomique,  Fr. ; Krdlienaugentinhtur , G. 

Preparation. — Extract  of  Nux  Vomica,  dried  at  100°  C.  (212°  F.),  20  Gm  ; 
Alcohol,  Water,  each  a sufficient  quantity;  to  make  1000  Cc.  Dissolve  the  extract  of 
nux  vomica  (which  should  contain  15  per  cent,  of  alkaloids)  in  a sufficient  quantity  of  a 
mixture  of  3 volumes  of  alcohol  and  1 volume  of  water  to  make  the  product  measure 
1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  nux  vomica  use  292  grains  of  extract  of  nux 
vomica,  thoroughly  dried  and  in  powder,  and  sufficient  menstruum  (alcohol  3 volumes, 
water  1 volume)  to  obtain  32  fluidounces  of  solution. 

The  Pharmacopoeia  requires  that  “ 100  Cc.  of  the  tincture  of  nux  vomica,  evaporated 
to  dryness,  and  the  residue  tested  by  the  process  of  assay  given  under  Extractum  Nucis 
Vomica,  shall  be  found  to  contain  0.3  Gm.  of  alkaloids  in  100  Cc.” 

Dissolve  extract  of  nux  vomica,  133  grains,  in  distilled  water  4 fluidounces  and  recti- 
fied spirit  sufficient  for  20  fluidounces. — Br. 

Hasped  nux  vomica  1 part,  alcohol  (sp.  gr.  0.863)  5 parts. — -F.  Cod.  Nux  vomica  1 
part,  alcohol  (sp.  gr.  0.894)  10  parts. — P.  G. 

Tinctura  strychni  jetherea.  Coarsely-powdered  nux  vomica  1 part,  spirit  of  ether 
10  parts.  Macerate  for  eight  days,  express,  and  filter. — P.  G.  1872. 

These  tinctures  have  a yellowish  color  and  a very  bitter  taste,  and  become  opalescent 
when  mixed  with  water.  A few  drops  of  the  tincture,  evaporated  to  dryness,  leave  a 
brownish-yellowish  residue,  which  is  colored  yellowish-red  by  nitric  acid.  The  U.  S.  and 
Br.  tinctures,  although  made  in  the  same  manner  from  extract  containing  15  per  cent,  of 
alkaloids,  differ  in  strength  considerably,  the  U.  S.  tincture  representing  in  each  fluidounce 
about  1.35  grains  (lCc.  =0.003  Gm.)  of  alkaloids,  whereas  the  Br.  tincture  represents  in 
each  fluidounce  1 grain.  The  present  U.  S.  formula,  while  differing  radically  from  that 
of  1880,  yet  yields  a tincture  which  corresponds  to  the  latter  in  containing  2 per  cent, 
of  dry  extract,  but  is  far  superior  at  the  same  time  on  account  of  the  prescribed 
definite  quantity  of  alkaloid  in  solution,  the  only  trustworthy  and  desirable  standard 
of  valuation. 

Uses. — This  is  a very  convenient  form  for  the  exhibition  of  nux  vomica,  especially  in 
small  doses.  It  is  particularly  adapted  for  use  in  atonic  dyspepsia \,  induced  by  excessive 
eating  or  by  prolonged  abstinence,  by  sedentary  habits  and  the  resulting  constipation,  by 
mental  strain  such  as  accompanies  undue  study  or  overwrought  passions,  and  also  in  the 
nervous  erethism  that  attends  some  of  these  states.  (See  Strychnina.)  Bose,  Gm.  0.30- 
1.30  (npv-xx) ; this  may  be  considered  safe.  Much  larger  doses  have  been  used.  One 
reporter  states  as  the  initial  dose  10  drops  three  times  a day,  and  refers  to  a patient, 
aged  twenty-four  years,  who  “ took  200  drops  three  times  daily  with  most  decided  bene- 
fit.' and  to  another,  “aged  sixteen  years,  125  drops  were  exhibited  without  producing 
any  bad  effects”  ( Therap . Gaz.,  x.  9). 

TINCTURA  OPH,  U.  S .,  Br. — Tincture  of  Opium. 

Tinctura  opii  simplex , P.  G.,  P.  A. — Tinctura  extracti  opii,  Fr.  Cod. ; Tinctura  thebaica , 
Tinctura  meconii. — Laudanum , E. ; Teinture  d' extrait  d opium,  Teinture  thebaique,  Fr. ; 
E) uf ache  Opiumtinktur , G.  ; Tintura  de  extracto  de  opio,  Sp. 

Preparation. — Powdered  Opium  100  Gm. ; Precipitated  Calcium  Phosphate  50 


1630 


TINCTTJRA  OPII. 


Cm. ; Water,  400  Cc. ; Alcohol  400  Cc. ; Diluted  Alcohol  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make 
1000  Cc.  Rub  the  powders  in  a mortar,  with  the  water  previously  heated  to  the  tem- 
perature of  90°  C.  (194°  F.  ),  until  a smooth  mixture  is  made,  and  macerate  for  twelve 
hours ; then  add  the  alcohol,  mix  thoroughly,  and  transfer  the  whole  to  a cylindrical  per- 
colator. Return  to  the  percolator  the  first  portion  of  the  percolate  until  it  becomes  clear, 
and,  when  the  liquid  ceases  to  drop,  gradually  pour  on  diluted  alcohol,  continuing  the  per- 
colation slowly  until  1000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  opium  use  3 av.  ozs.  and  148  grains  of  powdered 
opium,  1 av.  oz.  and  293  grains  of  precipitated  calcium  phosphate,  124  fluidounces  each 
of  water  and  alcohol,  and  diluted  alcohol  a sufficient  quantity. 

Take  of  opium,  in  coarse  powder,  1^  oz.  av.,  proof  spirit  1 pint.  Macerate  for  seven 
days  in  a closed  vessel,  with  occasional  agitation ; then  strain,  press,  filter,  and  add  suffi- 
cient proof  spirit  to  make  1 pint  (Imperial).  It  contains  the  soluble  matter  of  33  grains 
of  opium  nearly,  or  about  3.3  grains  of  morphine  in  1 fluidounce. — Br. 

Powdered  opium  1 part,  alcohol  sp.  grav.  0.894  and  distilled  water,  each  5 parts. — 
P.  G.  Extract  of  opium  10  parts,  alcohol  (sp.  grav.  0.912)  120  parts. — F.  Cod, 

The  Pharmacopoeia  requires  that  tincture  of  opium,  when  assayed  by  the  following 
process,  shall  be  found  to  contain  from  1.3  to  1.5  Gm.  of  crystallized  morphine  in  100 
Cc.  of  tincture : 

U.  S.  P.  Process  for  the  Assay  of  Tincture  of  Opium. — “ Tincture  of  Opium  100 
Cc. ; Ammonia-water,  3.5  Cc. ; Alcohol,  Ether,  Water,  each  a sufficient  quantity.  Evapor- 
ate the  tincture  to  about  20  Cc.,  add  40  Cc.  of  water,  mix  thoroughly,  and  set  the  liquid 
aside  for  an  hour,  occasionally  stirring,  and  disintegrating  the  resinous  flakes  adhering  to 
the  capsule.  Then  filter,  and  wash  the  filter  and  residue  with  water,  until  all  soluble 
matters  are  extracted,  collecting  the  washings  separately.  Evaporate  in  a tared  capsule, 
first  the  washings  to  a small  volume,  then  add  the  first  filtrate,  and  evaporate  the  whole 
to  a weight  of  14  Gm.  Rotate  the  concentrated  solution  about  in  the  capsule  until  the 
rings  of  extract  are  redissolved,  and  pour  the  liquid  into  an  Erlenmeyer  flask  having  a 
capacity  of  about  100  Cc.,  and  rinse  the  capsule  with  a few  drops  of  water  at  a time, 
until  the  solution  weighs  20  Gm.  Then  add  10  Gm.  (or  12.2  Cc.)  of  alcohol,  shake  well, 
add  25  Cc.  of  ether,  and  shake  again.  Now  add  the  ammonia-water  from  a graduated 
pipette  or  burette,  stopper  the  flask  with  a sound  cork,  shake  it  thoroughly  during  ten 
minutes,  and  then  set  it  aside,  in  a moderately  cool  place,  for  at  least  six  hours  or  over 
night.  Remove  the  stopper  carefully,  and,  should  any  crystals  adhere  to  it,  brush  them 
into  the  flask.  Place  two  rapidly-acting  filters,  of  a diameter  of  7 Cm.,  plainly  folded, 
one  within  the  other  (the  triple  fold  of  the  inner  filter  being  laid  against  the  single  side 
of  the  outer  filter;  the  latter  being  used  merely  to  facilitate  filtration),  in  a small  funnel, 
wet  them  well  with  ether,  and  decant  the  ethereal  solution  as  completely  as  possible  upon 
the  inner  filter.  Add  10  Cc.  of  ether  to  the  contents  of  the  flask,  rotate  it,  and  again 
decant  the  ethereal  layer  upon  the  inner  filter.  Repeat  this  operation  with  another  portion 
of  10  Cc.  of  ether.  Then  pour  into  the  filter  the  liquid  in  the  flask  in  portions,  in 
such  a way  as  to  transfer  the  greater  portion  of  the  crystals  to  the  filter,  and  when  this 
has  passed  through,  transfer  the  remaining  crystals  to  the  filter  by  washing  the  flask  with 
several  portions  of  water  previously  saturated  with  ether,  using  not  more  than  about  10 
Cc.  in  all.  Allow  the  double  filter  to  drain,  then  apply  water  to  the  crystals,  drop  by 
drop,  until  they  are  practically  free  from  mother-water,  and  afterward  wash  them,  drop  by 
drop,  from  a pipette,  with  alcohol  previously  saturated  with  powdered  morphine.  When 
this  has  passed  through,  displace  the  remaining  alcohol  by  ether,  using  about  10  Cc.,  or  more 
if  necessary.  Allow  the  filter  to  dry  in  a moderately  warm  place,  at  a temperature  not 
exceeding  60°  Cc.  (140°  F.),  until  its  weight  remains  constant ; then  carefully  transfer 
the  crystals  to  a tared  watch-glass  and  weigh  them.  The  weight  found  represents  the 
amount  of  crystallized  morphine  obtained  from  100  Cc.  of  the  tincture.” — U.  S. 

Each  fluidrachm  (U.  S.  measure)  of  these  tinctures  represents  4.3  grains  ( Br .),  5.7 
grains  (£7i  S.),  and  5.3  grains  (P.  G .)  of  dry  opium,  and  4 grains  ( F Cod.)  of  extract  of 
opium.  Calculating  60  per  cent,  as  the  yield  of  extract  from  dry  opium,  1 grain  of  pow- 
dered opium  is  represented  by  9 minims  (A7.  Cod.),  11.3  minims  (P.  G.),  10.5  minims  (P. 
S.),  and  14  minims  ( Br .),  U.  S.  measure,  of  these  tiuctures.  The  powdered  or  dry  opium 
used  is  directed  to  contain  of  morphine  13  to  15  per  cent.  ( U.  /S'.),  about  10  per  cent,  (at 
least  6 to  8 per  cent,  for  crude  opium,  Br.),  at  least  10  to  12  per  cent.  ( F '.  Cod.),  10  per 
cent.  ( P . G.). 

With  due  care,  opium  is  readily  exhausted  by  weak  alcohol,  about  60  per  cent,  of  its 
constituents  being  soluble  in  that  menstruum.  To  ensure  uniformity  of  strength  in  this 


TTNCTURA  OPII  AMMONIA TA. — TINCTURA  OPII  CAMPHORATA.  1631 


important  preparation,  the  opium  employed  in  making  it  should  be  well  dried,  of  full 
morphine  strength,  and  sufficiently  long  macerated  or  digested  in  the  menstruum  to  be 
completely  disintegrated  at  least  a day  before  it  is  transferred  to  a percolator  or  filter. 
The  residue  after  drying  should  yield  nothing  to  water,  and  dilute  acids  should  dissolve 
from  it  only  minute  quantities  of  alkaloid  compounds.  The  color  of  the  tincture  is  deep 
reddish-brown.  It  has  the  narcotic  odor  and  bitter  taste  of  opium,  and  should  be  pre- 
served in  well-stoppered  bottles  to  prevent  evaporation  of  the  alcohol. 

The  term  laudanum  is  still  recognized  by  several  European  pharmacopoeias  as  a syn- 
onym for  opium.  In  connection  with  various  epithets  (antihystericum,  diureticum,  etc.) 
it  was  formerly  employed  to  designate  numerous  solid  compound  preparations  of  opium, 
while  the  stronger  liquid  opiates  were  called  laudanum  liquidum , and  distinguished  by 
other  epithets — tincture  of  opium,  for  instance,  as  laudanum  liquidum  simplex.  How- 
ever, in  the  United  States  and  Great  Britain  the  tincture  is  popularly  known  as  laudanum. 

Allied  Tinctures. — Tinctura  opii  acetata,  U.  iS.  1870.  Dry  powdered  opium  2 troyounces, 
distilled  vinegar  12  fluidounces,  alcohol  1 pint;  macerate  for  a week,  express,  and  filter.  The 
yield  is  about  20  fluidounces,  and  10  minims  contain  1 grain  of  opium.  This  tincture  is  now 
rarely  used. 

Tinctura  opii  muriatica.  Macerate  for  two  weeks  powdered  opium  1 ounce,  hydrochloric  acid 
1 ounce,  and  distilled  water  20  ounces  ; filter  (Nichol).  This  is  of  less  than  half  the  strength  of 
laudanum,  and  contains  no  alcohol. 

Uses. — The  simple  tincture  of  opium — or  laudanum,  as  it  is  distinctively  called — 
possesses  most  of  the  good  and  evil  qualities  of  pure  opium.  Of  the  latter  the  most  con- 
spicuous is  its  tendency  to  nauseate.  This  operation  is  supposed  to  depend  upon  the  nar- 
cotine which  it  contains,  and  which  is  removed  in  the  process  for  making  the  deodor- 
ized tincture.  The  latter  is  therefore  preferable  for  internal  administration,  but  laudanum 
forms  a convenient  addition  to  liniments,  poultices,  and  other  external  anodyne  applica- 
tions. It  should  be  remembered  that  by  being  kept  in  imperfectly  stoppered  vials  it 
becomes  relatively  stronger  by  the  evaporation  of  its  alcohol.  The  dose  for  an  adult  is 
about  Gm.  0.75  (gtt.  xxij  or  npxij),  equivalent  to  about  Gm.  0.06  (1  grain)  of  opium. 

TINCTURA  OPII  AMMONIATA,  Ur, — Ammoniated  Tincture  of 

Opium. 

Teinture  d1  opium  ammoniacale , Fr. ; Ammoniakalische  Opiumtinktur , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Opium  in  coarse  powder,  100  grains;  Saffron,  cut  small, 
Benzoic  Acid,  each  180  grains  ; Oil  of  Anise  1 fluidrachm  ; Strong  Solution  of  Ammonia 
4 fluidounces;  Bectified  Spirit  16  fluidounces.  Macerate  for  seven  days  in  a well-closed 
vessel,  with  occasional  agitation  ; then  strain,  press,  filter,  and  add  sufficient  rectified  spirit 
to  make  1 pint  (Imperial). — Br. 

This  is  a slight  modification  of  the  formula  formerly  recognized  by  the  Edinburgh 
Pharmacopoeia.  The  preparation  was  known  as  elixir  paregoricum  scoticum , and  in  Scot- 
land employed  as  paregoric  elixir.  It  contains  the  opium  alkaloids  in  a free  state,  dis- 
solved by  the  aid  of  alcohol  and  of  an  excess  of  ammonia.  90  minims  of  it  represent 
very  nearly  1 grain  of  opium. 

Uses. — This  preparation,  sometimes  called  Scotch  paregoric,  is  composed  of  nearly 
the  same  ingredients  as  ordinary  paregoric,  except  that  in  it  ammonia  takes  the  place  of 
the  camphor  in  that  preparation.  The  dose  is  Gm.  2-4  (f^ss-j). 

TINCTURA  OPH  CAMPHORATA,  JJ,  Camphorated  Tincture  of 

Opium. 

Tinctura  camphorse  composita , Br. ; Tinctura,  extracti  opii  camphor ata^  F.  Cod.  ; Tinc- 
tura opii  benzoica,  P.  G. ; Elixir  paregoricum. — Paregoric  elixir , E. ; Elixir  paregorique , 
Teinture  d' opium  camphree , Fr.  ; Benzo'esciurehaltige  Opiumtinktur , G. 

Preparation.— Powdered  Opium  4 Gm.  ; Benzoic  Acid  4 Gm.  ; Camphor  4 Gm.  ; 
Oil  of  Anise  4 Cc. ; Glycerin  40  Cc. ; Diluted  Alcohol  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make 
1000  Cc.  Add  900  Cc.  of  diluted  alcohol  to  the  other  ingredients  contained  in  a suit- 
able vessel,  and  macerate  for  three  days,  frequently  stirring  ; then  filter  through  paper  in 
a well-covered  funnel,  and  pass  enough  diluted  alcohol  through  the  filter  to  make  the 
product  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  paregoric  use  581  grains  each  of  powdered  opium,  benzoic  acid, 
and  camphor,  60  minims  of  oil  of  anise,  10  fluidrachms  of  glycerin,  and  29  fluidounces 


1632 


TINCTURA  OPII  DEODOR  ATI. 


of  diluted  alcohol ; macerate  for  three  days,  filter,  and  wash  the  filter  with  sufficient 
diluted  alcohol  to  make  32  fluidounces. 

Opium,  in  coarse  powder,  benzoic  acid,  each  40  grains  ; camphor  30  grains  ; oil  of  anise 
J fluidrachm  ; proof  spirit  1 pint  (Imperial). — Br.  Extract  of  opium,  benzoic  acid,  oil 
of  anise,  each  3 parts;  camphor  2 parts;  alcohol  (sp.  gr.  0.912)  650  parts. — F.  Cod. 
Powdered  opium  and  oil  of  anise,  each  1 part ; benzoic  acid  4 parts ; camphor  2 parts ; 
alcohol  (sp.  gr.  0.894)  192  parts. — P.  G. 

1 grain  of  opium  is  represented  in  263  ( U.  S.)  and  230  (Rr.)  minims  (U.  S.  measure), 
and  in  200  (P.  6r.),  and  132  ( F Cod.)  grains  of  the  tincture.  This  tincture  has  a brown- 
ish-yellow color,  an  anise-like  and  camphoraceous  odor,  a sweetish,  pungently  aromatic, 
and  slightly  bitter  taste,  and  an  acid  reation  ; on  the  addition  of  water  it  turns  milky.  It 
is  an  ingredient  in  Mistura  glycyrrhizae  comp.,  U.  S. 

Allied  Preparations. — The  following  formulas  were  adopted  by  the  Philadelphia  College  of 
Pharmacy  (1833)  for  the  nostrums  named  : 

Bateman’s  Pectoral  Drops.  Digest  for  twenty-four  hours  rasped  red  saunders  2 troyounces 
in  4 gallons  of  diluted  alcohol ; filter,  and  add  powdered  opium,  catechu,  and  camphor,  each  2 
troyounces,  oil  of  anise  4 fluidrachms.  Digest  for  ten  days  and  filter.  It  is  of  the  same  opium 
strength  as  paregoric. 

Godfrey’s  Cordial.  Dissolve  potassium  carbonate  2J  troyounces  in  water  26  pints*,  add 
sugar-house  molasses  16  pints  ; heat  the  mixture  over  a gentle  fire  until  it  simmers ; remove  the 
scum ; add  tincture  of  opium  1 1 pints,  alcohol  2 pints,  and  oil  of  sassafras  4 fluidrachms,  pre- 
viously mixed  together.  Each  fluidounce  represents  nearly  11  grains  of  opium. 

Uses. — Camphorated  tincture  of  opium  is  in  common  use  to  relieve  abdominal  pains 
produced  by  flatus  or  by  irritability  of  the  stomach  or  bowels,  and  for  allaying  cough 
when  there  is  no  active  inflammation  of  the  respiratory  organs.  The  dose  for  an  adult  is 
6m.  4-8  (f&j-ij),  and  for  an  infant  from  Gm.  0.30-0.60  (gtt.  v-x).  It  is  usually  admin- 
istered in  sweetened  water. 

TINCTURA  OPII  DEODOR  ATI,  U*  S. — Tincture  of  Deodorized 

Opium. 

Tinctura  opii  deodorata , U.  S.  1880. 

Preparation. — Powdered  Opium  100  Gm.;  Precipitated  Calcium  Phosphate  50 
Gm.  ; Ether  200  Cc. ; Alcohol  200  Cc. ; Water  a sufficient  quantity;  to  make  1000  Cc. 
Rub  the  powders  in  a mortar  with  400  Cc.  of  water  previously  heated  to  the  tempera- 
ture of  90°  C.  (194°  F.),  until  a smooth  mixture  is  made,  and  macerate  for  twelve  hours; 
then  pour  the  mixture  on  a filter  or  transfer  it  to  a cylindrical  percolator,  and  gradually 
pour  on  water  until  the  opium  is  practically  exhausted.  Reduce  the  percolate,  by  evapo- 
ration on  a water-bath,  to  100  Cc.,  and  when  it  has  cooled  shake  it  repeatedly  with  the 
ether  in  a bottle.  When  the  ethereal  solution  has  separated  by  standing,  pour  it  off,  and 
evaporate  the  remaining  liquid  until  all  traces  of  ether  have  disappeared.  Mix  the  resi- 
due with  500  Cc.  of  water,  and  filter  the  mixture  through  paper.  When  the  liquid  has 
ceased  to  pass  add  enough  water  through  the  filter  to  make  the  filtered  liquid  measure 
800  Cc.  Lastly,  add  the  alcohol,  and  mix  them.  If  100  Cc.  of  tincture  of  deodorized 
opium  be  assayed  by  the  process  given  under  Tinctura  Opii,  it  should  yield  from  1.3 
to  1.5  Gm.  of  crystallized  morphine. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  deodorized  opium  mix  3 av.  ozs.  and  148  grains  of 
powdered  opium  and  1 av.  oz.  and  293  grains  of  calcium  phosphate ; treat  with  hot  and 
cold  water  until  exhausted  as  directed  above,  concentrate  the  percolate  to  3J  fluidounces, 
shake  well  with  6J  fluidounces  of  ether,  decant,  evaporate,  add  16  fluidounces  of  water, 
filter,  and  add  enough  water  to  obtain  25j  fluidounces  of  filtrate.  Lastly,  add  6?  fluid- 
ounces  of  alcohol. 

This  tincture  is  of  the  same  opium  strength  (by  volume)  as  laudanum,  but  rather 
lighter  in  color,  so  that  10.5  minims  represent  1 grain  of  opium.  It  is  nearly  identical 
with  denarcotized  tincture  of  opium , and  takes  the  place  of  several  preparations  which  were 
at  one  time  introduced  as  elixirs  of  opium. 

The  present  official  formula  differs  from  that  of  1880  chiefly  in  directing  1000  Cc., 
instead  of  1000  Gm.  (as  formerly),  of  tincture  to  be  made  from  100  Gm.  of  powdered 
opium.  By  the  treatment  with  ether  it  is  intended  to  remove  narcotine  and  the  odorous 
principle,  which  is  effectually  accomplished,  but  if  the  directions  of  the  Pharmacopoeia 
be  strictly  followed — namely,  to  shake  the  ether  repeatedly  with  the  concentrated  infu- 
sion— a very  annoying  and  persistent  emulsion  will  generally  result.  A much  better 
plan  is  to  add  the  ether  to  the  liquid  in  a cylinder  or  large  globular  separator,  and  bring 


TINCTURA  PHYSOSTIGMA  TIS. 


1633 


the  two  fluids  into  intimate  contact,  either  by  rotating  the  separator  or  by  slowly  invert- 
ing the  cylinder : this  treatment  should  be  continued  for  some  time,  and  repeated  fre- 
quently during  twelve  or  twenty-four  hours.  The  aqueous  fluid  should  then  be 
carefully  separated,  either  by  being  drawn  otf  or  by  decanting  or  siphoning  off  the  ether, 
and  the  washing  with  ether  repeated,  this  time  using  only  one-fourth  or  one-half  as  much 
ether  as  before. 

In  1887,  E.  C.  Federer  proposed  a process  for  preparing  deodorized  tincture  of  opium 
without  the  use  of  ether  (see  Drugg.  Circ .,  April,  1887),  which  consists  in  exhausting 
the  powdered  opium  with  water  heated  to  56.7°  C.  (138°  F.),  and  collecting  about  5 
parts  of  infusion  for  each  part  of  opium  : the  liquid  is  cooled  to  0°  C.  (32°  F.)  and 
filtered,  keeping  the  temperature  down  by  placing  ice  in  the  filter.  The  filter  is  washed 
with  ice-water  until  8 parts  of  clear  filtrate  are  obtained,  to  which  2 parts  of  alcohol  are 
then  added.  We  have  tried  the  process  with  carefully  assayed  opium,  and  have  found 
that,  while  the  deodorization  was  complete  and  the  filtrate  free  from  narcotine,  there  was 
also  a loss  of  morphine  amounting  to  as  much  as  one-fourteenth  of  the  total  amount  of 
morphine  present  in  the  opium  : the  marc  was  found  entirely  free  from  morphine,  show- 
ing that  the  loss  occurred  in  the  dark  odorous  deposit  formed  upon  cooling  the  infusion 
to  0°  C.  (32°  F.).  Our  best  results  were  obtained  by  freezing  the  liquid  over  night,  and 
filtering  at  a temperature  of  between  3.5°  and  5°  C.  (38.3°  and  41°  F.). 

Repeated  experiments  made  with  benzene  and  petroleum  benzin  have  shown  us  their 
inferiority  to  ether  (mainly  on  account  of  their  own  disagreeable  and  rather  persistent 
odor)  ; we  have,  however,  experienced  considerable  satisfaction  in  making  the  infusion 
from  opium  previously  deodorized  and  denarcotized  with  ether  (see  Opium  Deodoratum), 
evaporating  this  to  the  desired  volume,  and  adding  the  necessary  quantity  of  alcohol : this 
involves  the  use  of  a larger  quantity  of  ether,  but  entirely  obviates  the  formation  of 
troublesome  emulsions,  and  ensures  the  full  quantity  of  morphine  in  the  finished  product. 

Allied  Preparations. — Liquor  opii  compositus.  Opium  is  exhausted  with  water,  the  infusion 
concentrated,  precipitated  by  alcohol,  the  clear  liquid  evaporated  to  a small  bulk  equal  in  weight 
to  that  of  the  opium,  and  agitated  with  ether.  The  aqueous  liquid,  freed  from  the  ether,  is  diluted 
with  1 part  of  its  own  weight  of  water,  filtered,  mixed  with  1 part  of  stronger  alcohol,  and  diluted 
with  water  to  5 parts.  A portion  of  this  is  assayed,  and  the  whole  liquid  is  then  mixed  with  the 
remaining  ingredients  in  such  proportions  that  30  Cc.  or  1 fluidounce  shall  contain  6 grains  of 
morphine,  1 Cc.  of  chloroform,  2 Cc.  of  acetic  ether,  and  13  Cc.  of  stronger  alcohol,  the  remain- 
ing liquid  being  water.  As  originally  suggested  by  Dr.  Squibb,  this  preparation  contained  4 
grains  of  morphine  in  the  fluidounce,  but  after  the  appearance  of  the  Pharmacopoeia  of  1880  this 
amount  was  increased  to  6 grains.  (For  details  see  Amer.  Jour.  Pliar .,  1870,  p.  47.) 

Battley’s  Sedative  Drops.  3 ounces  of  extract  of  opium  are  dissolved  in  30  ounces  of  hot 
water,  and  the  solution  filtered  and  mixed  with  G ounces  of  alcohol.  This  preparation  is  about 
50  per  cent,  stronger  than  those  above  described. 

Uses. — The  nauseating  effects  of  laudanum  are  supposed  not  to  be  produced  by  this 
preparation,  which  is  of  the  same  strength.  It  may  be  given  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.75 
(nixij  =gtt.  xxij). 

TINCTURA  PHYSOSTIGMATIS,  U.  , S'.— Tincture  op  Physostigma. 

Teinture  de  feve  du  Calabar , Fr.  ; Kalabarbohnentinlctur , G. 

Preparation. — Physostigma,  in  No.  40  powder,  150  Gm.  ; Alcohol  a sufficient  quan- 
tity ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  100  Cc.  of  alcohol,  and  macerate  for 
twenty-four  hours  ; then  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator,  and  gradually  pour 
alcohol  upon  it  until  1000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained. — XJ.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  physostigma  use  5 av.  ozs.  of  powdered  Calabar  bean, 
and  moisten  with  3f  fluidounces  of  the  menstruum  (alcohol). 

Physostigma  1 part,  alcohol  (sp.  gr.  0.863)  5 parts. — F.  Cod. 

In  view  of  the  fact  that  physostigmine  and  its  salts  when  in  solution  are  readily 
altered  by  the  influence  of  light  and  air  (see  pp.  1221  and  1224).  it  is  doubtful  whether 
the  tincture  is  a sufficiently  stable  preparation  : it  is  advisable,  therefore,  to  make  it  only 
in  small  quantities  as  needed,  and  since  the  amount  of  matter  soluble  in  strong  alcohol 
is  quite  small  (see  p.  694),  the  tincture  may  very  properly  be  made  by  maceration.  The 
present  official  tincture  is  very  much  stronger  than  that  of  1880,  representing  about  681 
grains  of  the  drug  in  each  fluidounce  against  38  grains  formerly. 

Uses. — This  preparation  fully  represents  physostigma.  Its  commencing  dose  may  be 
stated  at  Gm.  0.60  (n^x). 

103 


1634 


TINCTURA  P YRETHR l — TINCTURA  Q UIN1NJE. 


TINCTURA  PYRETHRI,  JJ.  S.9  Br. — Tincture  of  Pyrethrum. 

Tincture  of  pellitory,  E. ; Teinture  de  pyrtthre , Fr. ; Bertramwurzeltinktur , G. 

Preparation. — Pyrethrum,  in  No.  40  powder,  200  Gm.  ; Alcohol  a sufficient  quan- 
tity; to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  150  Cc.  of  alcohol,  and  macerate  for 
twenty-four  hours  ; then  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator,  and  gradually  pour 
alcohol  upon  it  until  1000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  pyrethrum  use  6 av.  ozs.  and  296  grains  of  pyrethrum, 
and  moisten  with  5 fluidounces  of  the  menstruum  (alcohol). 

Powdered  pellitory  4 oz.  av.,  rectified  spirit  sufficient  for  1 pint  (Imperial). — Br.  Pel- 
litory  1 part,  alcohol  (sp.  gr.  0.863)  5 parts. — F.  Cod. 

It  has  a brownish-yellow  color  and  a very  acrid  taste,  and  on  the  addition  of  water 
becomes  opalescent  and  milky. 

Uses. — Tincture  of  pellitory  is  not  given  internally,  but  is  a convenient  substitute  for 
the  root  of  the  plant  as  an  application  to  painful  cavities  in  carious  teeth  and  as  a local 
stimulant  in  paralysis  of  the  tongue , velum  palati , and  pharynx. 

TINCTURA  QUASSL®,  U.  Br. — Tincture  of  Quassia. 

Teinture  de  quassie  ainere , Fr.  ; Quassiatinktur,  G. 

Preparation. — Quassia,  in  No.  40  powder,  100  Gm.  ; Alcohol,  Water,  each  a suffi- 
cient quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  alcohol  and  water  in  the  proportion  of  350  Cc. 
of  alcohol  to  650  Cc.  of  water.  Having  moistened  the  powder  with  100  Cc.  of  the  men- 
struum, macerate  for  twenty-four  hours  ; then  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator, 
and  gradually  pour  menstruum  upon  it  until  1000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained. — IT.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  quassia  use  3 av.  ozs.  and  148  grains  of  quassia,  and 
moisten  with  3 fluidounces  of  the  menstruum  (alcohol  35  volumes,  water  65  volumes). 

Quassia-wood,  in  chips,  f oz.  av.,  proof-spirit  sufficient  for  1 pint  (Imperial). — Br. 
Quassia  1 part,  alcohol  (sp.  gr.  0.912)  5 parts. — F.  Cod. 

The  tincture  has  a light  brownish-yellow  color  and  a persistently  bitter  taste,  and  is 
not  colored  black  by  ferric  salts. 

Uses. — It  is  occasionally  employed  during  convalescence  from  low  fevers  and  other 
exhausting  acute  diseases,  as  well  as  in  various  atonic  dyspeptic  conditions  of  gastric 
origin  ; but  it  is  less  frequently  prescribed  alone  than  as  an  addition  to  the  infusion  of  quas- 
sia or  of  other  bitter  tonics  or  associated  with  their  tinctures.  The  average  dose  is  about 
Gm.  4 (f^j).  It  is  sometimes  given  in  enema  to  destroy  rectal  ascarides. 

TINCTURA  QUILLAJiE,  JJ.  S. — Tincture  of  Quillaja. 

Tincture  of  soap-bark , E.  ; Teinture  d' ecorce  de  quillaya , Fr.  ; Seifenrindentinktur , G. 

Preparation. — Quillaja,  coarsely  ground,  200  Gm.  ; Alcohol  350  Cc. ; Water  a suf- 
ficient quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Boil  the  quillaja,  placed  in  a suitable  vessel,  with 
800  Cc.  of  water  for  fifteen  minutes,  strain,  and  wash  the  residue  on  the  strainer  with  100 
Cc.  of  water.  Then  boil  the  strained  liquid  down  to  600  Cc.,  allow  it  to  cool,  mix  it  with 
the  alcohol,  and,  when  the  insoluble  matter  has  subsided,  filter  the  liquid  portion  through 
paper,  and  add  enough  water  to  make  the  tincture  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  soap-bark  boil  6 av.  ozs.  and  296  grains  of  ground 
quillaja-bark  with  1?  pints  of  water  for  fifteen  minutes,  strain,  and  wash  the  residue  with 
3 ounces  of  water.  Boil  the  liquid  down  to  19  fluidounces,  cool,  mix  with  10|  fluid- 
ounces  of  alcohol,  and  filter,  passing  enough  water  through  the  filter  to  make  the  liquid 
measure  32  fluidounces. 

Uses. — This  preparation  would  appear  to  be  a convenient  one  for  external  application 
when  diluted  with  water,  and  for  the  various  uses  mentioned  under  Quillaja. 

TINCTURA  QUININE,  Br. — Tincture  of  Quinine. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Quinine  Hydrochlorate  160  grains;  Tincture  of  Orange-peel 
1 pint  (Imperial).  Dissolve  the  quinine  hydrochlorate  in  the  tincture  with  the 
aid  of  a gentle  heat ; then  allow  the  solution  to  remain  for  three  days  in  a closed  vessel, 
shaking  it  occasionally,  and  then  filter. — Br. 

Uses. — This  preparation  might  very  properly  have  been  left  to  magistral  prescription. 
Gm.  4 (1  fluidrachm)  contain  1 grain  of  quinine  hydrochlorate. 


TINCTURA  QUIN  IN jE  A MM  ON  I A TA . — TINCTURA  RHEI. 


1635 


TINCTURA  QUININE  AMMONIATA,  Br. — Ammoniated  Tincture 

of  Quinine. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Quinine  Sulphate  160  grains;  Solution  of  Ammonia  21 
fluidounces  (Imperial);  Proof  Spirit  171  fluidounces.  Dissolve  the  quinine  sulphate  in 
the  spirit  with  a gentle  heat,  and  add  the  solution  of  ammonia. — Br. 

Uses. — The  association  of  quinine  and  ammonia  is  supposed  to  be  indicated  in  neur- 
algia and  other  nervous  affections  due  to  a want  of  nervous  energy.  The  dose  is  Gm.  2-4 
(%ss-j). 


TINCTURA  RHEI,  TJ.  S.,  Br.— Tincture  of  Rhubarb. 

Teinture  de  rhubarbe , Fr. ; Rhabarbertinktuir , G. 

Preparation. — Rhubarb  100  Gm. ; Cardamom  20  Gm. : Glycerin  100  Cc. ; Alcohol, 
Water,  each  a sufficient  quantity ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  rhubarb  and  cardamom, 
and  reduce  the  mixture  to  a moderately  coarse  (No.  40)  powder.  Mix  the  glycerin  with 
600  Cc.  of  alcohol  and  300  Cc.  of  water.  Moisten  the  powder  with  100  Cc.  of  the 
menstruum,  and  macerate  for  twenty-four  hours ; then  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical 
percolator,  and  gradually  pour  on  the  remainder  of  the  menstruum.  When  the  liquid 
has  disappeared  from  the  surface,  gradually  pour  on  more  of  the  mixture  of  alcohol  and 
water,  using  the  same  proportion  as  before,  and  continue  the  percolation  until  1000  Cc. 
of  tincture  are  obtained. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  rhubarb  use  3 av.  ozs.  and  148  grains  of  rhubarb  and 
292  grains  of  cardamom  ; moisten  with  31  fluidounces  of  the  menstruum,  glycerin  31 
fluidounces,  alcohol  191  fluidounces,  water  91  fluidounces,  and  use  for  final  percolation  a 
mixture  of  alcohol  2 volumes,  water  1 volume. 

Rhubarb,  in  coarse  powder,  2 oz.  av. ; cardamom-seeds,  freed  from  the  pericarps  and 
bruised,  coriander-fruit,  bruised,  saffron,  each  1 oz.  av. ; proof  spirit  sufficient  for  1 pint 
(Imperial). — Br. 

Rhubarb  1 part  and  alcohol  (sp.  gr.  0.912)  5 parts. — F.  Cod. 

The  tincture  is  of  a deep  reddish-brown  color,  has  the  odor  and  taste  of  rhubarb, 
becomes  turbid  with  water,  and  on  standing  deposits  orange-yellow  granular  crystals, 
consisting  of  chrysophanic  acid  and  emodin,  mixed  with  phaeoretin,  erythoretin,  and  apo- 
retin.  The  use  of  stronger  alcohol  and  the  addition  of  glycerin  to  the  menstruum 
are  intended  to  prevent  the  precipitation,  but  in  this  will  probably  not  be  entirely 
successful. 

Allied  Tinctures. — Tinctura  rhei  aquosa,  P.  G.,  P.  A.  Take  of  rhubarb,  cut  into  thin  pieces, 
100  parts  ; powdered  borax,  potassium  carbonate,  each  10  parts  ; add  boiling  distilled  water  900 
parts,  and  after  fifteen  minutes  alcohol  90  parts ; macerate  for  one  hour,  express  slightly,  and  to 
850  parts  of  liquid  add  cinnamon-water  150  parts. 

Tinctura  rhei  et  absinthii  ; Tinct.  absinthii  composita,  F.  Cod. — Elixir  stomachique  de 
Stoughton,  Fr. — Rhubarb,  gentian,  wormwood,  germander,  and  bitter  orange-peel,  of  each  5 
parts;  aloes  and  cascarilla,  each  1 part;  alcohol  (sp.  gr.  0.912)  200  parts. — F.  Cod.  Numerous 
other  formulas  for  Stoughton's  bitters  have  been  in  use,  rhubarb,  gentian,  and  orange-peel  being 
the  principal  ingredients. 

Tinctura  riiei  et  aloes,  s.  Elixir  sacrum.  Rhubarb,  bruised,  10  drachms,  aloes  6 drachms, 
cardamom  4 drachms,  diluted  alcohol  2 pints.  Macerate  for  fourteen  days,  express,  and  filter. — 
U.  S.  1850. 

Tinctura  rhei  et  gentians,  s.  Tinct.  rhei  amara.  Rhubarb,  bruised,  2 troyounces,  gentian, 
bruised,  4 drachms,  diluted  alcohol  2 pints.  Proceed  as  above. — U.  S.  1850. 

Tinctura  rhei  et  senn^e.  Rhubarb  1 troyounce,  senna  120  grains,  coriander,  fennel,  each  60 
grains,  liquorice  30  grains,  raisins,  deprived  of  their  seeds,  6 troyounces,  diluted  alcohol  3 pints. 
Macerate  for  seven  days,  express,  and  filter  through  paper. — U.  S.  1870.  This  tincture  is  known 
as  Warned s gout  cordial , and  has  a reddish-brown  color. 

Uses. — Tincture  of  rhubarb  is  used  to  qualify  the  action  of  saline  purgatives  and  in 
gouty  or  other  feeble  states  of  the  system  requiring  a stimulant  as  well  as  a laxative 
medicine.  Its  dose  is  Gm.  16-32  (f^ss-j)  as  a purgative.  As  a stomachic  it  may  be 
given  in  the  dose  of  about  Gm.  4 (f&j). 

The  association  of  rhubarb  with  tonics,  aromatics,  or  laxatives,  mentioned  above,  is 
sometimes  very  useful.  The  disused  compounds  can  be  imitated  by  associating  simple 
tinctures. 


1636 


TINCTURA  RHEl  AROMA  TIC  A. — TINCT  UR  A SA  BINJE. 


TINCTURA  RHEI  AROMATIC  A,  U.  S. — Aromatic  Tincture  of  Rhu- 
barb. 

Teinture  de  rhubarbe  aromatique , Fr. ; Aromatische  Rhabarbertinktur , G. 

Preparation. — Rhubarb  200  Gm. ; Cassia  Cinnamon  40  Gm. ; Cloves  40  Gm. ; Nut- 
meg 20  Gm. ; Glycerin  100  Cc. ; Alcohol,  Water,  Diluted  Alcohol,  each  a sufficient  quan- 
tity ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  rhubarb,  cinnamon,  cloves,  and  nutmeg,  and  reduce  the 
mixture  to  a moderately  coarse  (No.  40)  powder.  Mix  the  glycerin  with  500  Cc.  of  alcohol 
and  400  Cc.  of  water.  Moisten  the  powder  with  150  Cc.  of  the  menstruum,  and  macerate  for 
twenty-four  hours ; then  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator,  and  gradually  pour  on 
the  remainder  of  the  menstruum.  When  the  liquid  has  disappeared  from  the  surface, 
gradually  pour  diluted  alcohol  upon  it  until  1000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  aromatic  tincture  of  rhubarb  use  6 av.  ozs.  and  296  grains  of 
rhubarb,  1 av.  oz.  and  147  grains  each  of  cassia  cinnamon  and  cloves,  and  292  grains  of 
nutmeg;  moisten  with  5 fluidounces  of  the  menstruum,  glycerin  31  fluidounces,  alcohol 
16  fluidounces,  water  12|  fluidounces,  and  use  diluted  alcohol  for  final  percolation. 

This  tincture,  intended  for  preparing  spiced  syrup  of  rhubarb,  has  a dark  red-brown 
color,  a pleasant  aromatic  odor,  and  a spicy  and  bitter  taste ; on  keeping  it  deposits  some 
chrysophanic  acid  and  other  principles  of  rhubarb  ; on  the  addition  of  water  it  becomes 
turbid. 

Uses. — This  preparation  seems  to  have  been  intended  to  represent  the  aromatic  syrup 
of  rhubarb.  It  may,  however,  be  added  to  the  number  of  purgative  tinctures  which  are 
used  in  gouty  and  enfeebled  states  of  the  system,  such  as  the  tinctures  of  aloes  and 
myrrh  or  of  rhubarb  and  senna  (1870),  and  indeed  may  be  appropriately  administered 
along  with  them.  Dose , Gm.  8-16  (f^ij-iv). 

TINCTURA  RHEI  DULCIS,  U.  S. — Sweet  Tincture  of  Rhubarb. 

Teinture  de  rhubarbe  douce , Fr. ; Siisse  Rhabarbertinktur , G. 

Preparation. — Rhubarb  100  Gm. ; Glycyrrhiza  4 Gm. ; Anise  4 Gm. ; Cardamom  1 
Gm. ; Glycerin  100  Cc. ; Alcohol,  Water,  Diluted  Alcohol,  each  a sufficient  quantity  ; to 
make  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  rhubarb,  glycyrrhiza,  anise,  and  cardamom,  and  reduce  the 
mixture  to  a moderately  coarse  (No.  40)  powder.  Mix  the  glycerin  with  500  Cc.  of 
alcohol  and  400  Cc.  of  water.  Moisten  the  powder  with  150  Cc.  of  the  menstruum,  and 
macerate  for  twenty-four  hours ; then  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator,  and  grad- 
ually pour  on  the  remainder  of  the  menstruum.  When  the  liquid  has  disappeared  from 
the  surface,  gradually  pour  diluted  alcohol  upon  it  until  1000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained. 

— U.S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  sweet  tincture  of  rhubarb  use  3 av.  ozs.  and  148  grains  of  rhubarb, 

58 1 grains  each  of  glycyrrhiza  and  anise,  and  15  grains  of  cardamom  ; moisten  with  5 
fluidounces  of  the  menstruum  (glycerin  3f  fluidounces,  alcohol  16  fluidounces,  water  12f  i 
fluidounces),  and  use  diluted  alcohol  for  final  percolation.  , 

This  tincture  has  been  in  use  for  a number  of  years,  and  was  admitted  into  the  Phar-  ; 

macopoeia  of  1880.  It  resembles  tincture  of  rhubarb  in  appearance,  but  is  one-third 
weaker  in  rhubarb,  the  bitter  taste  of  which  is  somewhat  modified  by  the  other 
ingredients. 

Uses. — From  the  small  proportion  of  rhubarb  in  this  preparation  it  may  be  surmised 
that  it  was  intended  for  infantile  disorders.  But  as  the  aromatic  tincture  or  the  aromatic 
syrup  can  readily  be  employed  in  doses  appropriate  to  such  cases,  the  need  of  this  officinal 
preparation  is  not  apparent.  The  dose  may  be  stated  at  Gm.  8-12  (f^ij-iij). 

TINCTURA  SABINiE,  Br, — Tincture  of  Savin. 

Teinture  de  sabine , Fr. ; Sadebaumtinktur , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Savin-tops,  dried  and  coarsely  powdered,  21  oz.  av. ; Proof 
Spirit  1 pint.  Prepare  the  tincture  according  to  the  formula  given  under  Tincture. 

— Br. 

Proof  spirit  appears  to  be  hardly  strong  enough  for  dissolving  the  volatile  oil  and 
resin  contained  in  savin.  The  tincture  has  a brown-green  color. 

Uses. — Tincture  of  savin  may  be  employed  internally  in  all  cases  in  which  that  mode 
of  administering  savin  is  appropriate.  Dose , Gm.  1.30-4  (n^xx-f^j). 


TINCTURA  SANG  UINA  RT^E.— TINCTURA  SENEGTE . 


1637 


TINCTURA  SANGUINARIA,  U.  Tincture  of  Sanguinaria. 

Tincture  of  bloodroot , E. ; Teinture  de  sanguinaire , Fr. ; ! Blutwurzeltinktur , G. 

Preparation. — Sanguinaria,  in  No.  60  powder,  150  Gm. ; Acetic  Acid  20  Cc. ; Alco- 
hol, Water,  each  a sufficient  quantity ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  alcohol  and  water  in  the 
proportion  of  600  Cc.  of  alcohol  to  400  Cc.  of  water.  Moisten  the  powder  with  100  Cc. 
of  the  mixture,  to  which  the  acetic  acid  had  previously  been  added,  and  macerate  for 
twenty-four  hours ; then  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  glass  percolator,  and  gradually 
pour  menstruum  upon  it  until  1000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained. — TJ.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  sanguinaria  use  5 av.  ozs.  of  sanguinaria,  and  moisten 
with  31  fluidounces  of  the  menstruum  (alcohol  3 volumes,  water  2 volumes),  to  which 
308  minims  of  acetic  acid  had  previously  been  added. 

In  alcoholic  strength  the  present  official  menstruum  is  weaker  than  that  of  1880,  which 
consisted  of  alcohol  2\  volumes  (nearly)  and  water  1 volume ; the  addition  of  acetic  acid 
is  valuable,  as  not  only  facilitating  the  exhaustion  of  the  drug,  but  also  as  materially  add- 
ing to  the  permanency  of  the  tincture.  Tincture  of  sanguinaria  has  a rich  brownish-red 
color  and  the  bitter,  acrid  taste  of  the  root. 

Uses. — This  tincture  contains  all  the  virtues  of  bloodroot.  It  may  be  given  in  doses 
of  Gm.  2-4  (fgss-j)  as  an  “ alterative  ” and  expectorant,  and  as  an  emetic  in  doses  of 
Gm.  4-16  (f^j-iv). 

TINCTURA  SCILLA,  TJ.  S ,,  Br.,  B.  G. — Tincture  of  Squill. 

Teinture  de  scille , Fr. ; Meerzwiebeltinktur , G. 

Preparation. — Squill,  in  No.  30  powder,  150  Gm. ; Alcohol,  Water,  each  a sufficient 
quantity ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  750  Cc.  of  alcohol  with  250  Cc.  of  water.  Moisten 
the  powder  with  200  Cc.  of  the  menstruum,  and  macerate  for  twenty-four  hours;  then 
pack  it  moderately  in  a conical  percolator,  and  gradually  pour  the  remainder  of  the  men- 
struum upon  it ; when  this  has  disappeared  from  the  surface,  gradually  pour  on  more  of 
the  mixture  of  alcohol  and  water,  using  the  same  proportions  as  before,  and  continue  the 
percolation  until  1000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained. — IT.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  squill  use  5 av.  ozs.  of  squill,  and  moisten  with  61 
fluidounces  of  the  menstruum  (alcohol  3 volumes,  water  1 volume). 

Squill  2I  oz.  av.,  proof  spirit  sufficient  for  1 pint  (Imperial). — Br.  Squill  1 part,  alco- 
hol  (sp.  gr.  0.912,  F.  Cod.)  (sp.  gr.  0.894,  P.  G.)  5 parts. 

Tfie  increase  in  the  alcoholic  strength  of  the  official  menstruum  is  decidedly  advanta- 
geous with  a view  to  extracting  less  of  inert  mucilaginous  matter.  The  tincture  is  of  a 
light  yellow-color,  with  the  nauseous  bitter  taste  of  squill. 

Allied  Tincture. — Tinctura  scille  kalina.  Macerate  for  a week  squill  8 parts  and  caustic 
potassa  1 part  in  alcohol  (sp.  gr.  0.894)  50  parts  ; express  and  filter.  It  has  a brownish  color. — 
P.  G.  1872. 

Uses. — Tincture  of  squill  is  perhaps  better  adapted  than  squill  in  substance  for  the 
treatment  of  dropsy.  It  is  generally  associated  with  other  medicines,  as  in  the  following 
efficient  formula:  P.  Tincture  of  digitalis  f^ij-f^iij  ; tincture  of  squill  f^ss ; compound 
spirit  of  juniper  fj§ij  ; sherry  wine  ; acetate  of  potassium  gj.  M. — S.  A tablespoon- 
ful, largely  diluted,  three  times  a day.  Tincture  of  squill  is  said  to  have  produced 
diuresis  when  applied  to  the  skin  with  friction.  The  dose  is  Gm.  0.60—1.30  (rrpx-xx). 

TINCTURA  SENEGA,  Br. — Tincture  of  Senega. 

Teinture  de  poly  gala  de  Virginie,  Fr. ; SenegatinJdur , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Senega-root,  in  coarse  powder,  2\  oz.  av.  ; Proof  Spirit  1 
pint  (Imperial).  Proceed  according  to  the  directions  given  under  Tincture. — Br. 
Senega  1 part,  alcohol  (sp.  gr.  0.863)  5 parts. — F.  Cod. 

The  tincture  has  a yellowish-brown  color  and  the  acrid  taste  of  senega. 

Uses. — This  preparation  is  probably  less  efficient  than  the  syrup  of  senega  in  affections 
of  the  air-passages,  and  than  the  fluid  extract  as  a stimulant  of  the  uterine  functions.  The 
alcohol  it  contains  renders  it  peculiarly  unsuitable  in  the  former,  and  probably  impairs  its 
virtues  in  the  latter  case,  while  it  tends  to  produce  a local  irritant  action  upon  the  stomach. 
Its  dose  is  Gm.  2-8  (f^ss-ij). 


1638 


TINCTURA  SENNJE. — T1NCT  UR  A STRAMONII  SEMINIS. 


TINCTURA  SENN^E,  Br. — Tincture  of  Senna. 

Elixir  salutis. — Teinture  de  sene  aromatique,  Elixir  de  salut,  Fr. ; Sennatinktur , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Senna,  broken  small,  21  oz.  av. ; Raisins,  freed  from  seeds, 
2 ounces  ; Caraway-fruit,  bruised,  Coriander-fruit,  bruised,  each  J ounce ; Proof  Spirit 
1 pint.  Prepare  1 pint  (Imperial)  of  tincture  according  to  the  formula  given  under 
Tincture. — Br. 

Senna  1 part,  alcohol  (sp.  gr.  0.912)  5 parts. — F.  Cod. 

It  is  used  in  preparing  Mistura  sennae  comp.,  Br.  The  formulas  of  old  pharmacopoeias 
directed  rhubarb  or  jalap  in  addition  to  the  senna. 

Uses. — It  is  convenient  as  an  addition  to  cathartic  infusions,  and  particularly  to  the 
compound  infusion  of  senna,  or  “ black  draught,”  or  along  with  the  tincture  of  rhubarb 
in  cases  that  require  a stimulating  purge,  especially  in  persons  of  a gouty  habit.  The  dose 
is  Gm.  4-16  (fi^j-iv). 

TINCTURA  SERPENTARIA,  V.  S.,  Br. — Tincture  of  Serpentaria. 

Teinture  de  serpentaire , Fr.  ; Schlangenwurzeltinktur , G. 

Preparation. — Serpentaria,  in  No.  40  powder,  100  Gm.;  Alcohol,  Water,  each  a suffi- 
cient quantity ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  650  Cc.  of  alcohol  with  350  Cc.  of  water.  Moisten 
the  powder  with  100  Cc.  of  the  menstruum,  and  macerate  for  twenty-four  hours  ; then  pack 
it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator,  and  gradually  pour  the  remainder  of  the  menstruum  upon 
it : when  this  has  disappeared  from  the  surface,  gradually  pour  on  more  of  the  mixture  of 
alcohol  and  water,  using  the  same  proportions  as  before,  and  continue  the  percolation  until 
1000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained. — II.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  serpentaria  use  3 av.  ozs.  and  148  grains  of  serpen- 
taria, and  moisten  with  31  fluidounces  of  the  menstruum  (alcohol  65  volumes,  water  35 
volumes). 

Serpentaria  21  oz.  av.,  proof  spirit  sufficient  to  make  1 pint  (Imperial). — Br. 

The  tincture  has  a brownish-yellow  color  and  the  camphoraceous  odor  and  taste  of  the 
drug. 

Uses. — In  the  low  forms  of  febrile  disease  for  which  serpentaria  is  employed 
the  tincture  is  the  most  appropriate  form  for  administering  it.  It  may  be  associated 
advantageously  in  such  cases  with  the  compound  tincture  of  cinchona.  Dose,  Gm.  4-8 

TINCTURA  STRAMONII  SEMINIS,  U.  S.,  Br.—  Tincture  of  Stra- 

MONIUM-SEED. 

Tinctura  stramonii , Br. — Tincture  of  stramonium,  E. ; Teinture  de  semences  de  stramoine, 
Fr.  ; Stechapfelsamentinktur,  G. 

Preparation. — Stramonium-seed,  in  No.  40  powder,  150  Gm. ; Diluted  Alcohol  a 
sufficient  quantity ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  100  Cc.  of  diluted  alco- 
hol, and  macerate  for  twenty-four  hours ; then  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator, 
and  gradually  pour  diluted  alcohol  upon  it  until  1000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  stramonium-seed  use  5 av.  ozs.  of  stramonium-seed, 
and  moisten  with  31  fluidounces  of  the  menstruum  (diluted  alcohol). 

Stramonium-seeds  21  oz.  av.,  proof  spirit  sufficient  for  1 pint  (Imperial). — Br. 

The  tincture  has  a brownish-yellow  color  and  becomes  opalescent  with  water.  The 
tincture  of  the  first  formula  is  about  one-fourth  stronger  than  that  of  the  British 
formula,  and  about  two-thirds  stronger  than  that  of  the  U.  S.  P.  1880.  Teinture  de 
stramoine  ( F '.  Cod.)  is  made  from  stramonium-leaves  1 part  and  alcohol  (sp.  gr.  0.912)  5 
parts. 

Uses. — Although  less  frequently  used  than  other  preparations  of  stramonium,  the 
tincture  is  probably  one  of  the  best,  whether  for  internal  administration  or  as  a topical 
anodyne.  It  would  seem  appropriate  for  inhalation,  when  atomized,  in  cases  of  spasmodic 
asthma,  and  it  has  been  used  with  marked  advantage  for  the  relief  of  dysmenorrhoea.  It 
may  also  be  given  internally  for  the  relief  of  neuralgia,  and  used  locally  for  that  affection 
and  for  muscular  rheumatism  in  anodyne  liniments.  Even  in  subacute  and  chronic  articu- 
lar rheumatism  it  may  be  employed  in  the  same  way  with  advantage.  The  average  dose 
of  the  tincture  is  Gm.  1 (npxv). 


TINCTURA  STR  OP  HA  NTHI. — TINCTURA  TOLU  TANA. 


1639 


TINCTURA  STROPHANTHI,  U.  S.,  Br.  Add.,  1\  G.,  B.  A.—1 Tincture 

of  Strophanthus. 

Teinture  de  sentences  de  strophanthe , Fr. ; Strophan thussamentinktur , G. 

Preparation. — Strophanthus,  in  No.  30  powder,  50  Gm. ; Alcohol,  Water,  each  a 
sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  650  Cc.  of  alcohol  with  350  Cc.  of  water. 
Digest  the  powder  with  70  Cc.  of  the  menstruum  for  two  days,  then  transfer  it  to  a cylin- 
drical percolator,  and  gradually  pour  on  more  menstruum,  and  continue  the  percolation 
very  slowly  until  1000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  strophanthus  use  1 av.  oz.  and  293  grains  of  strophan- 
thus-seed,  and  digest  for  two  days  with  18  fluidrachms  of  the  menstruum  (alcohol  65 
volumes,  water  35  volumes)  ; afterward  percolate  very  slowly  with  sufficient  menstruum 
to  yield  32  fluidounces  of  tincture. 

Percolate  strophanthus,  in  No.  30  powder,  1 ounce,  with  ether  until  the  latter  passes 
colorless  ; dry  the  mass  at  a temperature  not  above  48.9°  C.  (120°  F.),  and  percolate 
slowly  with  rectified  spirit  until  10  fluidounces  have  passed ; then  dilute  the  percolate 
with  rectified  spirit  to  1 pint  (Imperial). — Br.  Add. 

Macerate  1 part  of  bruised  strophanthus-seed,  deprived  of  as  much  oil  as  possible  by 
pressure  without  heat,  with  10  parts  of  diluted  alcohol  (spec.  grav.  0.894),  and  remove 
any  oil  which  may  separate  from  the  tincture  upon  subsequent  filtration. — P.  G. 

Strophanthus-seeds  are  very  rich  in  fixed  oil,  for  the  removal  of  which  no  provision  is 
made  in  the  U.  S.  P.  formula ; it  is  true  the  weaker  alcoholic  menstruum,  in  which  the 
active  glucoside  strophanthin  is  perfectly  soluble,  will  not  take  up  large  quantities  of  the 
oil ; but  we  think  the  process  given  in  the  National  Formulary  of  the  A.  P.  A.,  which  is 
practically  identical  with  the  directions  of  the  Brit.  Pharm.,  yields  a more  satisfactory 
product.  The  ether  used  for  the  removal  of  the  fixed  oil  does  not  affect  the  active  virtues 
of  the  seed,  and  the  alcoholic  tincture  has  been  used  by  physicians  for  years.  The  color  of 
the  tincture  will  depend  upon  the  menstruum  employed : made  by  the  U.  S.  P.  and  P.  G. 
formulas,  the  color  is  brownish-yellow,  while  if  made  by  the  Br.  Ph.  the  color  is  green- 
ish-yellow. The  taste  is  very  bitter. 

Uses. — An  efficient  preparation  of  strophanthus.  Dose , 4 to  8 minims. 

TINCTURA  SUMBUL,  TJ.  S.,  Br. — Tincture  of  Sumbul. 

Teinture  de  sumbul , Fr. ; Sumbultinktur , G. 

Preparation. — Sumbul,  in  -No.  30  powder,  100  Gm. ; Alcohol,  Water,  each  a suffi- 
cient quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  alcohol  and  water  in  the  proportion  of  650  Cc. 
of  alcohol  to  350  Cc.  of  water.  Moisten  the  powder  with  100  Cc.  of  the  menstruum, 
and  macerate  for  twenty-four  hours ; then  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator,  and 
gradually  pour  on  more  menstruum  until  1000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  sumbul  use  3 av.  ozs.  and  148  grains  of  sumbul,  and 
moisten  with  31  fluidounces  of  menstruum  (alcohol  65  volumes,  water  35  volumes). 

Sumbul  2\  oz.  av.,  rectified  spirit  sufficient  for  1 pint  (Imperial). — Br. 

The  medicinal  strength  of  tincture  of  sumbul  (U.  S.  P.)  is  about  the  same  as  that  of 
1880,  but  the  menstruum  has  been  changed  in  alcoholic  strength  to-  about  two-thirds  of 
the  former,  which  is  supposed  to  be  sufficiently  strong  to  exhaust  the  powdered  root ; 
considering  that  the  virtues  of  sumbul  reside  in  an  acid  and  volatile  oil,  a mixture  of  alco- 
hol 3 volumes  and  water  1 volume  would  appear  preferable,  as  in  the  case  of  valerian. 

Uses. — This  tincture  probably  possesses  all  the  virtues  of  sumbul.  Its  dose  is  Gm. 
0.60-2  (npx-xxx). 

TINCTURA  TOLUTANA,  U.  S.,  Br.— Tincture  of  Tolu. 

Teinture  de  baume  de  Tolu , Fr. ; Tolubalsamtinktur , G. 

Preparation. — Balsam  of  Tolu  100  Gm. ; Alcohol  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make 
1000  Cc.  Add  the  balsam  of  Tolu  to  900  Cc.  of  alcohol,  and  macerate  until  dissolved  ; 
then  filter  through  paper,  adding,  through  the  filter,  enough  alcohol  to  make  the  tincture 
measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  Tolu  dissolve  3 av.  ozs.  and  148  grains  of  balsam  of 
Tolu  in  29  fluidounces  of  alcohol,  and  add  sufficient  of  the  latter  to  make  32  fluidounces. 

Balsam  of  Tolu  2\  oz.  av.,  rectified  spirit  sufficient  to  make  1 pint  (Imperial). — Br. 
Balsam  of  Tolu  1 part,  alcohol  (sp.  gr.  0.863)  5 parts. — F.  Cod. 


1640 


TINCTURA  VALERIANAE.— TINCTURA  VANILL2E. 


The  tincture  has  a yellowish  color,  and  becomes  milky  on  the  addition  of  water. 

Uses. — This  preparation  is  used  for  little  else  than  to  flavor  cough  mixtures ; it  is 
ineligible  even  for  that  purpose,  since  it  is  decomposed  by  water.  Its  flavor,  however, 
remains  after  the  removal  of  its  resin,  and  in  this  manner  the  agreeable  officinal  syrup  is 
formed.  Dose , Gm.  4-8  (fl^j-ij). 

TINCTURA  VALERIANAE,  U.  S.,  Br.,  B.  G.,  B.  ,4.— Tincture  of 

Valerian. 

Teinture  de  valerian  e,  Fr. ; Baldriantinktur,  G. 

Preparation. — Valerian,  in  No.  60  powder  200  Gm. ; Alcohol,  Water,  each  a suf- 
ficient quantity;  to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  alcohol  and  water  in  the  proportion  of  750  Cc. 
of  alcohol  and  250  Cc.  of  water.  Having  moistened  the  powder  with  100  Cc.  of  the 
menstruum,  macerate  for  twenty-four  hours ; then  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  per- 
colator, and  gradually  pour  menstruum  upon  it  until  1000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained. — 

U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  valerian  use  6 av.  ozs.  and  296  grains  of  valerian,  and 
moisten  with  31  fluidounces  of  the  menstruum  (alcohol  3 volumes,  water  1 volume). 

Valerian  2\  oz.  av.,  proof  spirit  sufficient  for  1 pint  (Imperial). — Br.  Valerian  1 part, 
alcohol  (sp.  gr.  0.912,  F.  Cod.)  (sp.  gr.  0.894,  P.  G.)  5 parts. 

The  alcoholic  and  medicinal  strength  of  the  official  tincture  has  been  altered,  so  that  it 
is  now  practically  identical  with  those  of  the  French  and  German  Pharmacopoeias.  The 
tincture  is  of  a brown  or  reddish-brown  color,  varying  somewhat  with  the  variety  of 
valerian  employed,  and  has  the  odor  and  taste  of  the  drug  in  a marked  degree.  On  the 
addition  of  water  it  becomes  opalescent  and  turbid. 

Allied  Tincture. — Tinctura  valerians  ^etherea.  Valerian  1 part,  spirit  of  ether  5 parts. 
— P.  G.  Valerian  2 parts,  ether  (sp.  gr.  0.724)  7 parts,  alcohol  3 parts. — F.  Cod.  It  is  of  a yel- 
low or  brownish-yellow  color,  and  becomes  opalescent  and  turbid  on  the  addition  of  water. 

Uses. — The  tincture  is  much  less  frequently  employed  than  the  other  preparations 
of  valerian,  although  in  certain  cases  it  is  more  efficacious — those,  namely,  in  which  a 
prompt  and  efficient  operation  is  required.  Such  cases  are  the  typhoid  state  with  pre- 
dominance of  ataxic  phenomena  and  delirium  tremens.  On  the  other  hand,  in  purely 
nervous  disorders,  especially  of  an  hysterical  kind,  it  is  far  less  eligible  than  the  infusion, 
the  oil,  the  ammoniated  tincture,  or  even  the  fluid  extract  of  valerian.  The  dose  is  Gm. 
4-8  (f&j-ij). 

TINCTURA  VALERIANAE  AMMONIATA,  U.  S.,  Br.— Ammoniated 

Tincture  of  Valerian. 

Teinture  de  valeriane  ammoniacale , Fr. ; Ammoniakalische  Baldriantinktur , G. 

Preparation. — Valerian,  in  No.  60  powder,  200  Gm. ; Aromatic  Spirit  of  Ammonia 
a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  200  Cc.  of  aromatic 
spirit  of  ammonia,  and  macerate  for  twenty-four  hours  in  a closed  vessel ; then  pack  it 
firmly  in  a cylindrical  glass  percolator,  and  gradually  pour  aromatic  spirit  of  ammonia 
upon  it  until  1000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained. — TJ.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  ammoniated  tincture  of  valerian  use  6 av.  ozs.  and  296  grains  of 
valerian,  and  moisten  with  6i  fluidounces  of  the  menstruum  (aromatic  spirit  of  ammo- 
nia). 

Valerian  2?  oz.  av.,  aromatic  spirit  of  ammonia  sufficient  for  1 pint  (Imperial). — Br. 

The  tincture  is  of  a brown  color,  with  the  odor  and  taste  of  valerian  and  of  ammonia. 

Uses. — This  preparation  may  be  employed  in  all  the  disorders  in  which  the  simple 
tincture  is  eligible,  but  it  is  perhaps  best  adapted  to  cases  of  a purely  nervous  description, 
in  which  its  use  need  not  be  prolonged.  It  may  be  given  in  doses  of  from  Gm.  2-4  (30 
to  60  minims)  in  sweetened  water  or  mucilage,  but  never  in  milk.  A non-officinal  pre- 
paration, the  elixir  of  ammonium  valerianate,  operates  in  the  same  manner,  but  much 
less  energetically.  Both  are  suited  to  cases  of  nervous  headache  and  of  general  nervous- 
ness with  insomnia , produced  by  exhaustion  of  mind  or  body.  Dose,  Gm.  4-8  (fi^j-ij)- 

TINCTURA  VANILLAE,  TJ.  S.,  B.  A. — Tincture  of  Vanilla. 

Teinture  de  vanille,  Fr. ; Vanilletinktur,  G. 

Preparation. — Vanilla,  cut  into  small  pieces  and  bruised,  100  Gm.  ; Sugar,  in  coarse 
powder,  200  Gm. ; Alcohol,  Water,  each  a sufficient  quantity;  to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix 


TINCTURA  VERATRI  VIR  ID  IS.— TINCT  UR  A ZINGIBERIS. 


1641 


alcohol  and  water  in  the  proportion  of  650  Cc.  of  alcohol  to  350  Cc.  of  water.  Macerate 
the  vanilla  in  500  Cc.  of  this  mixture  for  twelve  hours,  then  drain  off  the  liquid,  and  set 
it  aside.  Transfer  the  vanilla  to  a mortar,  beat  it  with  the  sugar  into  a uniform  powder, 
then  pack  it  in  a percolator,  and  pour  upon  it  the  reserved  liquid.  When  this  has  disap- 
peared from  the  surface  gradually  pour  on  the  menstruum,  and  continue  the  percolation 
until  1000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  vanilla  macerate  3 av.  ozs.  and  148  grains  of  cut  vanilla 
for  twelve  hours  in  16  fluidounces  of  a mixture  of  alcohol  65  volumes,  water  35  volumes  ; 
drain  off  the  liquid,  transfer  the  vanilla  to  a mortar,  and  beat  it  to  powder  with  6 av.  ozs. 
and  296  grains  of  sugar  ■ percolate  with  the  expressed  liquid,  and  afterward  with  fresh 
menstruum,  until  32  fluidounces  have  been  obtained. 

Vanilla,  cut,  1 part,  alcohol  (sp.  grav.  0.863)  10  parts. — F.  Cod. 

The  first  formula  agrees  in  the  main  with  that  for  essence  or  fluid  extract  of  vanilla , 
given  in  previous  editions  of  this  work ; but  the  strength  has  been  increased  about  50 
per  cent.,  the  commercial  essence  being  usually  made  from  1 ounce  of  vanilla  to  1 pint 
of  tincture.  Maceration  of  the  cut  vanilla  with  a portion  of  the  menstruum  previous  to 
beating  the  former  with  sugar  into  powder  was  already  directed  in  1880,  and  facilitates 
the  exhaustion  of  the  bean. 

Tincture  of  vanilla  is  used  only  as  a .flavoring  agent. 

TINCTURA  VERATRI  VIRIDIS,  JJ.  S.,  Br. — Tincture  of  Veratrum 

VlRIDE. 

Tincture  of  green  ( American ) hellebore , E.  ; Teinture  de  veratre  vert , Fr.  ; Grun-JVieswurz- 
tinlctur,  G. 

Preparation. — Veratrum  Viride,  in  No.  60  powder,  400  Gm. ; Alcohol  a sufficient 
quantity;  to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  powder  with  150  Cc.  of  alcohol,  and  macerate 
for  twenty-four  hours ; then  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator,  and  gradually  pour 
alcohol  upon  it  until  1000  Cc.  are  obtained. — JJ.  S. 

To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  veratrum  viride  use  13  av.  ozs.  and  155  grains  of  verat- 
rum viride,  and  moisten  with  5 fluidounces  of  the  menstruum  (alcohol). 

Veratrum  viride  4 oz.  av.,  rectified  spirit  sufficient  for  1 pint  (Imperial). — Br. 

This  tincture  is  now  about  20  per  cent,  weaker  than  that  of  the  U.  S.  P.  1880,  but  still 
more  than  twice  as  strong  as  that  of  the  Br.  P.  It  is  of  a deep  red-brown  color,  has  a 
bitter  and  acrid  taste,  and  becomes  opalescent  and  turbid  on  the  addition  of  water.  The 
present  English  title  is  to  be  preferred  to  the  older  one,  as  not  likely  to  lead  to  confound- 
ing this  preparation  with  the  tincture  of  Helleborus  viridis  which  is  employed  in  some 
parts  of  Europe. 

Allied  Tinctures. — Veratum  viride  not  being  recognized  by  the  French  and  German  Pharma^ 
copceias,  these  authorities  have  adopted  a tincture  from  the  closely-allied  V eratrum  album  : 

Tinctura  veratri,  P.  G.  — Teinture  d’hellebore  blanc  (veratre  blanc),  Fr. — White  veratrum 
1 part,  alcohol  (sp.  grav.  0.863)  5 parts. — F.  Cod.  White  veratrum  1 part,  alcohol  (sp.  grav.  0.894) 
1 0 parts. — P.  G. 

Uses. — The  American  is  more  than  twice  as  strong  as  the  British  tincture,  and  may 
be  given  to  adults  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.40-0.50  (^vj-viij)  every  three  hours,  and  cautiously 
increased  until  nausea  is  felt  or  the  pulse  begins  to  fall.  The  dose  of  the  British  tincture 
is  from  Gm.  0.30-1.30  (“  5 to  20  minims  ”).  This  preparation  and  the  fluid  extract  have 
been  used  hypodermically.  Dr.  E.  B.  Squibb  suggests  as  the  proper  dose  “8  to  10 
minims  of  the  fluid  extract,  or  double  that  dose  of  the  tincture,  every  fifteen  minutes  at 
first.”  The  physiological  effect  may  be  certain  ; the  therapeutical  result  is  improbable.  It 
may  be  remarked  here,  as  was  implied  in  the  account  given  of  green  (American)  helle- 
bore itself,  that  while  some  of  our  native  physicians  exalt  this  medicine  to  the  rank  of 
a panacea,  others  condemn  its  use  altogether  as  scientifically  illogical  and  practically 
dangerous.  Among  the  latter  we  desire  to  be  reckoned.  The  reasons  that  have  led  us 
to  this  judgment  are  set  forth  under  Veratrum  V iride. 

TINCTURA  ZINGIBERIS,  JJ.  S.,  Br JP . G. — Tincture  of  Ginger. 

Teinture  de  gingembre,  Fr.  ; Ingwertinktur , G. 

Preparation. — Ginger,  in  No.  40  powder,  200  Gm. ; Alcohol  a sufficient  quantity  ; 
to  make  1000  Cc.  Moisten  the  ginger  with  50  Cc.  of  alcohol,  macerate  for  twenty-four 
hours ; then  pack  it  firmly  in  a cylindrical  percolator,  and  gradually  pour  alcohol  upon  it 
until  1000  Cc.  of  tincture  are  obtained.—  JJ.  S. 


1642 


TRAGACANTHA. 


To  make  1 quart  of  tincture  of  ginger  use  6 av.  ozs.  and  296  grains  of  ginger,  and 
moisten  with  lg  fluidounces  of  the  menstruum  (alcohol). 

Ginger  2J  oz.  av.,  rectified  spirit  sufficient  for  1 pint  (Imperial). — Br.  Ginger  1 part ; 
alcohol  (sp.  gr.  0.863,  F.  Cod.)  (sp.  grav.  0.894,  P.  G.)  5 parts.  The  tincture  is  brown- 
ish-yellow or  reddish,  has  the  aromatic  odor  and  hot  taste  of  ginger,  and  is  rendered 
milky  by  water.  Diluted  alcohol  yields  a turbid  tincture. 

Allied  Tincture. — Tinctura  zingiberis  fortior,  Br. — Strong  tincture  of  ginger,  E. — Take 
of  ginger,  in  fine  powder,  10  ounces,  rectified  spirit  a sufficiency.  Pack  the  ginger  tightly  in  a 
percolator,  and  pour  over  it  carefully  J pint  of  the  spirit.  At  the  expiration  of  two  hours  add 
more  spirit,  and  let  it  percolate  slowly  until  1 pint  (Imperial)  of  tincture  has  been  collected. — Br. 

This  has  about  one-half  the  strength  of  the  fluid  extract  of  ginger. 

Uses. — These  tinctures  suffice  for  nearly  all  the  purposes  to  which  ginger  can  be 
applied,  either  internally  or  externally,  and  especially  to  parts  slightly  affected  with 
muscular  rheumatism , and  to  the  abdomen  in  cases  of  nausea  or  colic ; and  internally  the 
weaker  tincture  may  be  given  for  flatulent  colic , dysmenorrhoea , etc.  The  British  strong 
tincture  is  twice  as  strong  as  the  American  tincture,  but  neither  is  as  strong  as  the  fluid 
extract.  The  latter  tincture  may  be  prescribed  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.60-4  (n^x-lx),  the 
former  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.30—2  (ttlv-xxx). 

TRAGACANTHA,  U.  S.,  Br.,  JP.  G. — Tragacanth. 

Gummi  tragacantha . — Gomme  adragante , F.  Cod.  ; Tragantli , G. ; Goma  tragacanta , Sp. 

A gummy  exudation  from  Astragalus  gummifer,  Labillardiere , and  from  other  species 
of  Astragalus.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 73. 

Nat.  Ord. — Leguminosse,  Papilionaceae. 

Origin. — The  genus  Astragalus  comprises  numerous  herbaceous,  suffruticose,  and 
shrubby  species,  and  is  characterized  by  its  flowers  having  ten  stamens,  nine  of  which 
are  united  into  a bundle,  and  by  having  the  lower  suture  of  their  legumes  inflexed  so  as 
to  make  the  fruit  apparently  two-celled.  The  subgenus  Tragacantha  has  the  stipules 
united  with  the  permanent  petioles,  which  become  thorny.  According  to  Boissier  and 
Ilaussknecht,  the  principal  species  yielding  tragacanth  are  Astragalus  adscendens,  Bois. 
et  Ilaussk .,  A.  brachycalyx,  Fischer , A.  microcephalus,  Willdenow , A.  pycnocladus,  Bois. 
et  Ilaussk .,  A.  stromatodes,  Bunge,  A.  kurdicus,  Bois.,  A.  cylleneus,  Bois.  et  Heldreicli 
(probably  a variety  of  A.  Parnassi,  Boissier)  ; also,  A.  verus,  Olivier,  and  A.  creticus, 
Lamarck.  All  are  low  shrubs,  indigenous  to  a portion  of  the  territory  lying  between 
Eastern  Persia  and  Greece. 

The  secretion  of  tragacanth  is  due  to  a transformation  of  the  cell-walls,  with  their 
incrusting  layers,  of  the  pith  and  medullary  rays  contained  in  the  stem  and  older 
branches,  as  was  first  observed  by  Hugo  von  Mohl  (1857),  whose  observations  were  cor- 
roborated by  Wigand  (1861).  The  altered  tissue  is  confined  in  the  plant  between  the 
wood-wedges  with  considerable  tension,  and  oozes  out  with  some  force  on  breaking  a 
branch  or  making  an  incision. 

Collection. — Tragacanth  exudes  spontaneously  either  from  fissures  or  from  punc- 
tures and  longitudinal  incisions  made  into  the  stem  and  older  branches.  From  such  in- 
cisions flake  tragacanth  is  obtained,  while  the  spontaneously  exuding  gum  often  forms 
irregularly  globular  or  somewhat  conical  pieces.  The  rapidity  with  which  the  gum 
exudes  chiefly  determines  the  shape  in  which  it  ultimately  hardens,  and  the  time  which 
elapses  before  it  is  sufficiently  hard  for  collection  influences  the  color  of  the  product, 
which  is  white  if  congealed  rapidly,  and  more  or  less  yellowish  and  brown  if  hardened 
slowly.  Tragacanth  enters  commerce  from  the  ports  of  Asia  Minor  and  from  the  Persian 
Gulf. 

Properties. — Tragacanth  consists  of  different  layers,  either  laid  upon  one  another 
and  spirally  twisted,  or  confluent  into  tear-like  masses,  or  extended  into  curved,  narrow, 
or  broad  bands,  varying  in  width  between  6 and  25  Mm.  (|  inch  and  1 inch),  and  some- 
times 10-13  Cm.  (4  or  5 inches)  long.  These  bands  are  rarely  made  up  of  a single 
layer,  but  usually  are  marked  with  several  parallel  ridges,  indicating  the  various  strata, 
which  are  united  into  broader  and  thicker  laminae.  This  form  of  tragacanth  is  known  as 
flake  tragacanth  or  leaf  gum,  and  is  the  more  valuable  the  whiter  and  more  translucent  it 
is.  Smyrna  tragacanth  is  mostly  in  rather  broad  and  thick  flakes,  which  are  yellowish  or 
of  a brownish  tint,  and  often  prominently  ridged.  Thin,  ribbon-like,  and  white  flakes  are 
produced  in  Kurdistan  and  Persia,  but  are  sometimes  distinguished  in  commerce  as 
Syrian  tragacanth.  Another  variety  is  vermiform  tragacanth , also  called  vermicelli.  It 


TRA  GACANTHA. 


1643 


consists  of  very  narrow,  variously  coiled,  and  contorted  string-like  pieces,  the  different 
coils  of  which  are  most  frequently  confluent.  Common  tragacanth , or  sorts , in  Europe 
known  as  traganton , is  the  product  obtained  by  spontaneous  exudation,  forming  subglobu- 
lar,  conical,  or  variously  shaped  tear-like  pieces,  with  the  surface  rounded  and  more  or  less 
irregular,  and  usually  of  a brownish  or  brown  color,  and  rather  waxy  in  appearance;  but  it 
shows  the  stratification  described  above,  and,  like  the  white  and  thin  bands,  encloses  starch. 

Tragacanth  is  hard,  tough,  difficult  to  powder,  inodorous,  and  tasteless,  insoluble  in 
alcohol  and  ether,  and  forms  with  50  parts  of  water  a thick,  jelly-like  mucilage.  When 
diffused  in  a much  larger  quantity  of  water  it  forms  a ropy  liquid  which  may  be  passed 
through  a filter,  leaving  behind  an  insoluble  residue,  which  in  contact  with  iodine 
acquires  a blue  color  from  the  presence  of  starch.  The  mucilage  acquires  a yellow  color 
on  the  addition  of  caustic  soda,  and  the  solution  of  tragacanth  yields  clear  mixtures  with 
borax,  ferric  chloride,  and  sodium  silicate,  is  precipitated  by  alcohol,  thickened  by  cold 
lead  acetate  and  subacetate,  and  precipitated  by  these  salts  on  heating  (Fliickiger). 

Composition. — The  soluble  gum  is  not  identical  with  arabin,  though  its  solution  is 
precipitated  by  alcohol  and  ammonium  oxalate.  The  insoluble  gum  is  known  as  bassorin , 
traganthin , adraganthin.  It  is  soluble  in  hydrochloric  acid  and  in  ammonia,  and  is  stated 
to  have  the  composition  C12H20O10.  According  to  Giraud  (1876),  tragacanth  consists 
essentially  of  pectose  or  a closely-allied  principle,  which  on  being  digested  with  water  is 
gradually  converted  into  a soluble  compound,  pectin , which  is  precipitated  by  alcohol. 
He  regards  it  as  very  improbable  that  tragacanth  should  originate  from  a transformation 
of  cellulose,  since  this  body  is  ordinarily  converted  into  dextrin  and  sugar,  which  com- 
pounds are  not  met  with  in  tragacanth.  According  to  this  author,  the  average  composi- 
tion of  tragacanth  is  20  per  cent,  water,  60  per  cent,  pectin  compound,  8 to  10  per  cent, 
soluble  gum,  3 per  cent,  cellulose,  2 or  3 per  cent,  starch,  3 per  cent,  of  mineral  constitu- 
ents, and  a trace  of  nitrogenous  matter.  By  drying,  tragacanth  loses  about  15  per  cent, 
of  moisture  ; the  ash  contains  over  half  its  weight  of  calcium  carbonate. 

Allied  Gums. — Cherry  Gum.  The  different  species  of  cherry  and  plum  trees  frequently  yield 
gummy  exudations  which  harden  to  irregular  nodulous  masses,  are  of  a more  or  less  browTn  color, 
translucent,  and  dissolve  imperfectly  in  water.  According  to  Guerin,  the  insoluble  portion  of 
this  gum  is  not  identical  with  bassorin. 

Bassora  or  Kutera  Gum  is  a Persian  product  of  unknown  origin,  and  is  met  with  in  yellowish 
or  brownish,  semi-transparent,  and  tasteless  masses,  which  swell  considerably  with  water.  It  is 
used  in  Smyrna  for  adulterating  the  cheaper  varieties  of  tragacanth,  and  is  then  usually  broken 
into  smaller  pieces  of  about  the  same  size  as  the  tragacanth.  Such  broken  pieces  are  angular, 
and  are  said  to  be  sometimes  artificially  wThitened  with  white  lead.  This  fraud  may  be  readily 
detected  by  treating  the  gum  with  cold  dilute  nitric  acid,  when  the  presence  of  lead  in  the  solu- 
tion may  be  established  without  difficulty. 

Cashew  Gum,  Gomme  acajou , is  an  exudation  of  Anacardium  occidentale  (see  page  207),  is 
brown-yellow,  translucent,  somewhat  iridescent,  and  partly  soluble  in  water.  (See  also  Hog 
Gum,  page  7.) 

Other  Species  of  Astragalus. — A.  baeticus,  Linne.  An  herbaceous  annual  of  the  basin  of 
the  Mediterranean.  Its  brownish-yellow,  angular,  subcubical  seeds  have  been  used  as  a substi- 
tute for  coffee  ; they  were  examined  by  Trommsdorff  (1824). 

A.  exscapus,  Linne.  This  perennial  is  indigenous  to  the  mountainous  parts  of  Southern  and 
Central  Europe.  Its  root  is  mucilaginous,  somewhat  astringent  and  bitter,  and  was  formerly 
used  as  a diuretic.  Examined  by  Fleurot  (1833),  no  peculiar  active  principle  was  found. 

A.  glycyphyllos,  Linn6.  The  leaves  and  seeds  of  this  perennial,  indigenous  to  Europe  and 
Northern  Asia,  have  an  unpleasant  sweet  taste  and  are  used  as  diuretics. 

A.  crotal  arias,  Gh'ay.  This  is  a California  plant,  known  as  loco-weed  and  rattle-weed , and  is 
reported  to  be  poisonous  to  horses  and  cattle. 

A.  mollissimus,  Torrey.  It  is  indigenous  to  North  America  west  of  the  Mississippi  from 
Nebraska  to  Western  Texas.  Its  leaflets  are  densely  covered  with  a glossy,  soft,  white  or  yel- 
lowish pubescence.  It  is  claimed  to  be  poisonous  to  horses,  but  from  neither  this  nor  the  pre- 
ceding could  poisonous  principles  be  isolated. 

Action  and  Uses. — Tragacanth  is  demulcent  and  nutritious.  It  was  apparently 
unknown  to  the  Greek  physicians  until  the  fourth  or  fifth  century,  and  was  then  used  to 
allay  cough  and  hoarseness  and  promote  expectoration , and,  in  a word,  for  all  the  affections 
in  which  gum-arabic  has  been  employed.  Its  difficult  solubility  renders  it  less  eligible 
than  the  latter  gum  in  most  instances.  On  the  other  hand,  the  greater  tenaciousness  of 
its  mucilage  fits  it  to  be  a better  protective  in  some  local  affections,  such  as  burns. 

A.  mollissimus  has  been  studied  by  Dr.  Isaac  Ott,  who  summarizes  its  effects  as  fol- 
lows : It  lessens  the  irritability  of  the  motor  nerves  and  of  the  sensory  ganglia  of  the 
central  nervous  system  ; has  a spinal  tetanic  action  ; reduces  the  action  of,  and  then 
arrests,  the  heart;  salivates;  ultimately  it  diminishes  arterial  tension,  and  dilates  the 


3 644 


TRILLIUM. 


pupil  ( ' Phila . Med.  Times,  xii.  892;  Med.  Record , xxxiii.  197).  A.  legum  is  described  by 
Gray  as  a species  of  the  vetch  tribe,  and  as  rendering  horses  valueless.  Dr.  J.  W.  Carhart 
and  Dr.  Thornton  Parker  have  described  its  effects  on  horses.  Their  hair  grows  dull, 
their  flesh  fails,  their  gait  is  staggering,  their  sight  is  impaired,  and  they  seem  intox- 
icated (Med.  Record,  xxxi.  10,  130).  It  does  not  appear  to  have  affected  man  nor  any 
animals  but  those  of  the  equine  species. 

TRILLIUM . — B ethroot. 

Birthroot,  Wakerobin,  E. ; Trillium,  Fr.,  G. 

The  rhizome  of  Trillium  erectum,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Liliacese. 

Origin. — Bethroot  is  generally  stated  to  be  obtained  from  Trillium  pendulum,  which 
is  now  regarded  as  a white  flowering  variety  of  Tr.  erectum,  but  the  drug  as  met  with  in 
the  market  is  evidently  derived  from  different  plants,  and  it  is  not  unlikely  that  in  differ- 
ent localities  bethroot  is  collected  from  such  species  of  Trillium  as  may  be  most  abun- 
dant. All  the  species  have  a simple  stem,  mostly  about  30  Cm.  (1  foot)  high,  bearing  at 
its  apex  a single  hexandrous  flower,  and  beneath  it  a whorl  of  three  leaves,  which  are 
reticulate-palmately  veined  and  usually  broadly  ovate  or  rhomboid  in  shape.  The  fruit 
is  a triangular-ovate,  three-celled,  and  many-seeded  dark  purple  or  red  berry.  The  dif- 
ferent species  grow  in  moist  thickets  and  shady  woods  in  various  parts  of  the  United 
States  and  Canada.  Two  of  the  species  have  the  dark-purple  flower  sessile  between  the 
leaves — namely,  Tr.  sessile,  Linne , with  erect  petal  and  sessile  leaves,  and  Tr.  recurva- 
tum,  Beck,  with  recurved  petals  and  stalked  leaves.  Two  species  have  white  flowers  on 
erect  peduncles  and  petiolate  leaves — namely,  Tr.  nivale,  Riddell , with  the  leaves  and 
petals  obtuse,  and  Tr.  erythrocarpum,  Michaux,  with  pointed  leaves  and  petals,  and  the 
latter  striped  with  purple  near  the  base.  Tr.  cernuum,  Linne , and  Tr.  stylosum,  Nuttall, 
have  white  or  rose-colored  flowers  on  peduncles  which  are  deflexed  under  the  leaves,  the 
last-named  species  being  distinguished  by  the  partly-united  styles.  Tr.  erectum,  Linne , 
bears  a nodding  and  finally  deflexed  flower,  with  dark -purple  spreading  petals,  or  in  the 
variety  album  (Tr.  pendulum,  Middenberg')  with  greenish -white  or  yellowish  petals.  The 
variety  declinatum  has  a horizontal  peduncle  and  white  or  pink-colored  petals.  Tr.  gran- 
diflorum,  Salisbury,  has  a large  white  or  rose-colored  suberect  flower. 

Description. — Bethroot  is  a subglobular,  oblong,  or  nearly  obconical  and  oblique 
rhizome,  which  is  truncate  at  the  lower  end  and  terminates  above  with  a short  tuft  of 
sheathing  leaf-bases.  The  rhizome  is  25—38  Mm.  (1  or  lj  inches)  long,  12—18  Mm. 
(J  to  f inch)  in  diameter,  slightly  flattened,  finely  but  distinctly  annulate,  and,  particu- 
larly in  the  upper  portion,  beset  with  circular  rows  of  straw-colored  or  pale-brownish 
rootlets  or  with  the  short  remnants  of  the  same.  Bethroot  is  externally  of  a yellowish 
orange-brown  color,  internally  whitish  or  more  frequently  yellowish  or  light-brown,  and 
upon  transverse  section  is  seen  to  be  composed  of  rather  spongy  parenchyma  and  of  small 
scattered  fibro-vascular  bundles,  which  are  circular,  elongated,  or  irregularly  curved,  and 
more  numerous  toward  the  circumference  than  near  the  centre.  It  is  inodorous  or  nearly 
so,  and  has  a sweetish,  astringent,  afterward  bitter  and  acrid  taste. 

Constituents. — On  moistening  a section  of  bethroot  with  solution  of  iodine  the  tis- 
sue assumes  a uniform  blue  color,  with  the  exception  of  the  wood-bundles,  proving  the 
presence  of  starch  in  the  parenchyma.  From  an  investigation  by  Prof.  E.  S.  Wayne 
(1856),  it  appears  that  on  evaporating  the  tincture  and  diluting  with  water  fatty  and 
resinous  matter,  and  perhaps  a little  volatile  oil,  are  separated,  and  that  from  the  aque- 
ous liquid  tannin  and  coloring  matter  are  precipitated  by  lead  acetate  and  subacetate, 
while  the  acrid  principle  remains  in  solution.  On  removing  the  excess  of  lead  by  sul- 
phuric acid  and  filtering,  the  acrid  principle,  or  probably  a decomposition-product  of  it, 
is  deposited  as  a gelatinous  mass,  soluble  in  alcohol,  but  insoluble  in  water,  and  producing 
with  it  on  agitation  a permanent  foam.  The  principle  deserves  further  investigation. 

Action  and  Uses. — This  is  one  of  the  plants  used  as  a medicine  by  the  American 
aborigines.  Its  acrid  principle  causes  it  to  irritate  the  mouth  and  throat  when  chewed, 
and  increase  the  flow  of  saliva.  It  is  reputed  to  be  astringent,  tonic,  and  alterative,  and 
to  have  a special  action  upon  the  uterine  system,  controlling  menorrhagia  and  quickening 
the  uterine  contractions  during  parturition.  It  thus  received  the  name  of  “ birthwort.” 
In  large  doses  the  root  is  alleged  to  be  emetic,  and  the  bruised  herb  has  been  applied  with 
supposed  advantage  to  unhealthy  ulcers  and  to  tumors.  Trillium  erectum  appears  to  be 
the  most  active  species.  The  dose  of  its  dried  and  powdered  root  is  stated  at  Gm.  4 (,gj). 


TR1METH  YLA  MINA . 


1645 


TRIMETHYLAMINA. — Trimethyl  amine. 

Trimethylamine , Fr. ; Trimethylamin , G. 

Formula  N(CH3)3.  Molecular  weight  58.92. 

Origin  and  Preparation. — This  compound,  frequently  incorrectly  called  propyl- 
amine, with  which  it  is  isomeric,  has  been  obtained  from  ergot  ( secaline ),  from  the  leaves 
of  Beta  vulgaris  and  Chenopodium  vulvaria,  from  the  flowers  of  Arnica  montana,  Pyrus 
communis,  Sorbus  aucuparia,  and  Crataegus  oxyacantha,  and  from  cod-liver  oil,  bone  oil, 
and  guano.  It  is  also  produced  on  heating  codeine  with  potassa,  but  may  be  economi- 
cally obtained  from  herring-pickle,  which  contains  this  alkaloid  in  considerable  quantity 
and  owes  to  it  its  peculiar  odor.  A mixture  of  herring-pickle  and  lime  is  subjected  to 
distillation,  the  alkaline  distillate  is  neutralized  with  hydrochloric  acid  and  evaporated, 
and  the  saline  residue  is  treated  with  absolute  alcohol,  which  leaves  ammonium  chloride 
undissolved.  The  alcoholic  solution  is  evaporated,  the  residue  redissolved  in  a little 
water,  and  again  carefully  distilled  with  lime.  If  the  vapors  are  first  passed  through  an 
empty  bottle  before  they  are  condensed  by  means  of  ice  or  conducted  into  water,  several 
less  volatile  alkaloids  are  separated  in  the  bottle.  Large  quantities  of  trimethylamine 
are  now  obtained  from  the  residues  left  in  the  preparation  of  sugar  from  beets. 

Properties. — In  its  pure  state  trimethylamine  is  a colorless,  thin,  and  strongly  alka- 
line liquid  having  a strong  ammoniacal  odor  modified  by  the  peculiar  odor  of  herring- 
pickle,  and  boiling  at  9.8°  C.  (49.6°  F.).  At  ordinary  temperatures  it  is  a colorless, 
inflammable  gas.  It  is  readily  soluble  in  water  and  alcohol,  and  an  aqueous  solution 
of  it  has  been  sold  as  propylamine.  Trimethylamine  chloroplatinate  is  soluble  in  alcohol 
and  water,  crystallizes  in  well-defined  orange-colored  octahedrons,  and  contains  37.21  per 
cent,  of  platinum.  More  characteristic,  particularly  in  the  presence  of  methylamine 
and  allied  bases,  is  the  double  salt  with  gold,  which  is  very  sparingly  soluble  in  cold 
water,  and  has  the  composition  N(CH3)3HC1.AuC13  (Hesse,  1857,  1883). 

Trimethylamine  hydrochloride,  N(CH3)3HC1,  is  obtained  on  neutralizing  the  alka- 
loid with  hydrochloric  acid  and  evaporating.  It  crystallizes  in  white  or  colorless  prisms, 
is  nearly  inodorous,  has  a saline  pungent  taste,  is  very  deliquescent  on  exposure,  and  dis- 
solves freely  in  water  and  alcohol. 

Allied  Compounds. — Amylamina,  NH2C5Hu,  is  a colorless  liquid,  having  a penetrating  ammo- 
niacal odor,  and  the  density  0.7503  at  18°  C..  and  boiling  at  95°  C.  (203°  F.).  The  hydrochlorate 
crystallizes  in  octahedrons,  is  freely  soluble  in  water  and  alcohol,  and  is  insoluble  in  ether. 

Propylamixa,  NH2C3H7,  is  a colorless,  strongly  refracting,  inflammable  liquid  of  an  ammonia- 
cal odor,  boiling  at  50°  C.  (122°  F.),  and  yielding  with  platinic  chloride  a double  salt,  which 
crystallizes  in  orange-yellow  clinorhombic  plates. 

Methylamina,  NH2CH3,  and  Dimethylamina,  NH(CH3)2,  are  colorless  inflammable  gases  of 
an  ammoniacal  odor,  very  soluble  in  water,  and  condensing  to  colorless  liquids,  the  former  at 
— 18°  C.  (0.4°  F.),  the  latter  below  8°  C.  (46.4°  F.). 

Bilineurina,  Cholixa,  C5H15N02,  is  obtained  by  boiling  bile  with  caustic  baryta,  and  in  a 
similar  manner  from  brain,  yelk  of  egg  (see  V itellus),  and  mustard-seed  ( sinkaline ).  It  is 
present  also  in  cotton-seed,  fenugreek,  fly  agaric,  herring-pickle ; is  formed  in  the  human  corpse 
in  the  beginning  of  decomposition,  and  has  also  been  prepared  synthetically.  It  is  a colorless, 
syrupy,  non-volatile  liquid  of  a strongly  alkaline  reaction,  very  hygroscopic,  combining  readily 
with  carbon  dioxide,  and  soluble  in  alcohol  or  water  in  all  proportions ; on  heating  it  gives  off 
trimethylamine,  and  on  boiling  its  aqueous  solution  the  same  alkaloid  is  given  off  and  ethylene- 
glycol produced.  On  treating  its  hydroiodide  with  silver  oxide,  the  anhydrous  base,  C5H,3NO, 
is  separated.  By  careful  oxidation  betaine , C5HuN02  (see  p.  591),  is  produced. 

Action  and  Uses. — Applied  to  the  sound  skin,  trimethylamine  is  negative  in  its 
action  unless  friction  is  employed,  in  which  case  it  causes  redness  very  much  as  ammonia 
does.  Upon  the  mucous  membrane  it  acts  as  a strong  irritant,  causing  a lively  sense  of 
burning,  with  redness,  and  if  allowed  to  continue  its  action  it  produces  superficial  ulcera- 
tion. Its  taste  is  ammoniacal  and  saline,  and  if  taken  in  a large  dose  and  undiluted  it 
occasions  a burning  sensation  in  the  throat,  oesophagus,  and  stomach.  Propylamine  and 
trimethylamine  hydrochloride  agree  in  their  effects;  30  or  40  grains  of  the  former  or  10 
grains  of  the  latter  will  reduce  the  pulse  about  ten  beats  in  the  minute,  and  under  the 
influence  of  the  muriate  the  temperature  may  fail  1°  or  2°  F.  In  febrile  rheumatism 
the  decline  of  the  pulse-rate  and  temperature  is  more  decided.  But  the  medicine  causes 
neither  diaphoresis,  diuresis,  colic,  nor  diarrhoea. 

The  disease  in  connection  with  which  trimethylamine  was  first  brought  into  notice, 
and  the  only  one  in  which  its  importance  as  a medicine  was  recognized,  is  articular  rheu- 


1646 


TRIOSTEUM. 


matism.  It  does  not  appear  what  motives  first  led  to  its  use  in  the  treatment  of  this 
affection  by  Awenarius  of  St.  Petersburg,  who  between  1854  and  1856  treated  by  its 
means  more  than  two  hundred  and  fifty  rheumatic  patients,  and  affirmed  that  it  dissi- 
pated the  pain  of  the  acute  disease  from  one  day  to  another.  Isolated  statements 
attributing  to  it  a similar  efficacy  were  made  in  France  previous  to  1864;  but  in  1870, 
Lagrange  confirmed  them,  and  in  1873,  Dujardin-Beaumetz  gave  the  history  of  seven 
cases  of  acute  articular  rheumatism  which  were  cured  in  a very  short  time  by  trimethyl- 
amine.  The  improvement  in  general  was  rapid,  and  sometimes  great  relief  was  experi- 
enced within  twelve  hours,  the  pain  first  and  then  the  swelling  subsiding,  as  well  as  the 
fever.  Further  experience  led  him  to  conclude  that  of  all  the  remedies  hitherto  used  in 
the  treatment  of  acute  articular  rheumatism,  trimethylamine  hydrochloride  appeared  to 
be  the  most  efficient.  A number  of  physicians  in  France  have  sustained  this  conclusion 
by  their  own  experience  ; a few  have  published  a similar  judgment  in  England,  and  also 
in  Germany.  The  less  favorable  accounts  of  some  others  are  attributed  to  their  having 
made  use  of  ill-prepared  and  inert  preparations  of  the  medicine  or  of  those  which  did  not 
contain  a due  proportion  of  the  active  ingredient.  As  will  be  observed,  this  history  of 
the  virtues  of  trimethylamine  in  rheumatism  has  a striking  analogy  with  that  of  salicylic 
acid  and  its  salts  in  the  same  disease ; the  same  mode  of  action  is  attributed  to  the  two 
medicines,  and  the  same  extraordinary  curative  powers  are  ascribed  to  both.  These 
medicines  in  their  turn  have  been  supplanted  by  antipyrine  and  antifebrin,  so  that 
of  the  oldest  in  the  group  hardly  any  trace  can  be  found  in  medical  literature  since 
1879. 

Weiss  has  reported  that  this  medicine  is  very  efficient  in  the  treatment  of  chorea , 
moderating  the  spasmodic  movements  greatly,  even  when  it  did  not  suspend  them,  when 
it  was  given  to  the  extent  of  Gm.  1-1.30  (gr.  xv-xx)  a day. 

The  dose  of  trimethylamine  is  Gm.  0.10-0.40  (npij-vj)  every  three  or  four  hours.  Its 
extremely  offensive  taste  and  smell  render  necessary  its  administration  in  syrup  flavored 
with  mint,  or  anise,  or  some  other  aromatic  water.  To  obviate  this  objection  the  substi- 
tution of  the  trimethylamine  hydrochloride,  which  has  no  smell  and  only  a faint  taste,  has 
been  proposed.  Dr.  J.  L.  Tyson  has  reported  favorably  of  its  use  in  doses  of  2 grains 
every  two  hours  ( Pliila . Med.  Times , ix.  374).  It  is  generally  given  in  doses  of  Gm. 
0.10-0.20  (gr.  ij-iij),  dissolved  in  a syrup  and  repeated  at  similar  intervals,  so  that  not 
less  than  Gm.  1 (gr.  xv)  shall  be  taken  during  the  day. 

TRIOSTEUM. — Fever-root  ; Horse-gentian. 

E'everwort , Bastard  ipecac,  Tinker's  weed,  E. ; Trioste,  Fr. ; Dreisteinwurzel,  G. 

The  root  of  Triosteum  perfoliatum,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Caprifoliacese. 

Origin. — This  perennial  herb  is  indigenous  to  the  United  States,  grows  in  woodlands, 
and  flowers  in  June.  The  stem  is  from  0.6-1. 2 M.  (2  to  4 feet)  high,  soft-hairy,  and  has 
opposite  spatulate-ovate  and  entire  leaves,  which  are  about  10  Cm.  (4  inches)  long, 
abruptly  narrowed  below  and  connate  at  the  base.  The  flowers  are  in  axillary  clusters, 
and  have  a five-lobed  brown-purple  corolla,  about  12  Mm.  (1  inch)  long.  The  ripe  fruit 
is  orange-colored,  drupaceous,  and  contains  three  hard  nutlets.  All  parts  of  the  plant 
have  a bitter  taste,  but  only  the  rhizome  and  root  are  employed.  The  more  slender  and 
rougher  Tr.  angustifolium,  Linne,  which  has  greenish  flowers  and  grows  chiefly  in  the 
Western  and  Southern  United  States,  is  said  to  have  similar  properties. 

Description. — The  rhizome  is  horizontal,  from  15-30  Cm.  (6  to  12  inches)  long, 
knotty-cylindrical,  about  18  Mm.  (f  inch)  thick,  somewhat  branched,  and  on  the  upper 
side  bears  numerous  cup-shaped  scars  of  the  over-ground  stems  about  6 Mm.  (4  inch) 
in  diameter.  The  numerous  spreading  rootlets  are  inserted  mainly  on  the  lower  side  of 
the  rhizome,  and  are  at  their  base  6-9  Mm  (4  to  f inch)  thick,  and  12-25  Cm.  (5  to  10 
inches)  long.  Both  the  rhizome  and  the  rootlets  are  slightly  wrinkled  longitudinally, 
externally  of  a yellowish-brown  color,  internally  white,  and  contain  a hard,  slightly  bitter 
wood,  with  delicate  medullary  rays.  The  bark  of  the  rhizome  is  thin,  that  of  the  roots 
rather  thick,  and  has  a bitter  somewhat  nauseous  taste.  Fresh  fever-root  has  a slight 
disagreeable  odor,  which  is  dissipated  on  drying. 

Constituents. — On  moistening  a transverse  section  of  the  roots  with  solution  of 
iodine  a deep-blue  color  is  imparted  to  the  medullary  rays  and  the  cambium-layer,  but 
the  bark  acquires  only  a slight-blue  tinge.  Fever-root  has  not  been  subjected  to  analysis ; 
its  bitter  principle  is  dissolved  both  by  water  and  alcohol. 


TRITICUM. 


1647 


Uses. — A decoction  of  this  plant  is  said  to  have  been  used  by  some  of  the  American 
aborigines  in  the  treatment  of  fevers  and  female  obstructions.  The  fresh  root,  in  the  dose 
of  Gm.  1.30-2  (gr.  xx-xxx),  and  the  extract  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.60-1  (gr.  x-xv), 
purge  actively  after  the  manner  of  jalap.  The  bark  of  the  root  is  said  to  be  emetic. 

TRITICUM,  U.  S. — Triticum  ; Couch-grass. 

Rhizoma  ( Radix ) graminis. — Quick-grass , Quickens , Quitch , E.  ; Chiendent  officinal, 
Petit  chiendent , Fr.  Cod.  ; Queckenwurzel , Grasswurzel , G.  ; Grama , Sp. 

The  rhizome  of  Agropyrum  (Triticum,  Linne ) repens,  Beauvais , collected  in  the  spring 
and  deprived  of  the  rootlets. 

Nat.  Ord. — Graminacese. 

Origin. — Couch-grass  is  a troublesome  perennial  weed  growing  along  roadsides  and  in 
cultivated  grounds  throughout  the  northern  hemisphere.  The  plant  has  a long,  jointed, 
whitish  rhizome,  with  a tuft  of  fibrous  rootlets  at  each  joint.  The  culm  is  about  0.6  M. 
(2  feet)  or  sometimes  1.2  M.  (4  feet)  high,  and  has  compressed  spikes  7-10  Cm.  (3  or  4 
inches)  long,  and  four-  to  eight-flowered  spikelets.  The  florets  are  variable,  mostly  awn- 
less, and  either  pointed  or  rather  obtuse. 

Description. — Couch-grass  root  is  met  with  in  the  market  cut  into  short  sections, 
about  5-10  Mm.  (^  to  inch)  in  length,  about  2 Mm.  (T*j  inch)  in  diameter,  of  a 


Fig.  309. 


Triticum  repens  : rhizome  ; transverse  section,  magnified  3 diam.  Section  through  portion  of  rhizome, 

magnified  65  diam. 


straw-yellow  color,  smooth,  hollow  in  the  centre,  inodorous,  and  of  a sweet  taste.  The 
transverse  section  shows  the  central  cavity  surrounded  by  a narrow  layer  of  delicate 
parenchyma,  projecting  somewhat  into  the  equally  narrow  circle  of  fibro-vascular  bundles, 
which  is  separated  by  the  nucleus-sheath  from  the  broad  outer  layer  of  parenchyma  con- 
taining about  six  or  eight  isolated,  distant  fibro-vascular  bundles  in  a loose  circle.  In 
Spain  and  Mexico  the  rhizome  of  Bermuda  grass  or  Scotch  grass , Cynodon  Dactylon, 
Persoon , is  employed  like  couch-grass. 

Constituents. — The  latest  analysis  of  couch-grass  root  is  by  Ludwig  and  H.  Muller 
(1872,  1873),  who  obtained  from  it  malates,  a nitrogenous  principle  which  is  readily 
darkened  by  heat,  fruit-sugar  (2.4  or  3.3  per  cent.),  levulose,  and  a right-rotating  sugar 
which  is  not  identical  with  cane-sugar.  A peculiar  gum-like  principle,  triticin , was  iso- 
lated, which  resembles  inulin  in  its  optical  behavior,  and,  like  this,  may  be  converted  into 
levulose.  It  is  obtained  by  exhausting  the  rhizome  with  water,  neutralizing  with  baryta, 
concentrating,  precipitating  with  lead  subacetate,  removing  the  excess  of  lead,  treating 
with  animal  charcoal,  neutralizing  the  filtrate,  again  concentrating,  and  precipitating  by 
alcohol  (Reidemeister,  1880).  Triticin  is  amorphous  and  transparent  in  thin  layers  or 
forms  a white  powder ; it  is  inodorous,  tasteless,  very  hygroscopic,  in  damp  air  deliques- 
cent, insoluble  in  ether  and  absolute  alcohol,  and  is  oxidized  by  nitric  acid  to  oxalic  acid. 
Mannit,  which  was  stated  by  Berzelius  (1837)  and  Yolker  (1846)  to  be  present  in  the 
rhizome,  has  not  been  obtained  by  later  investigations ; but  the  extract  of  couch-grass 
root  may  contain  calcium  lactate,  and  possibly  also  mannit,  as  products  resulting  from 
fermentation.  Couch-grass  root  yields  about  4.5  per  cent,  of  ash,  which  is  rich  in  silica. 

Allied  Drugs. — Sorghum-fruit  is  3-4  Mm.  G or  & inch)  long,  nearly  as  wide,  broadly  oval, 
somewhat  flattened,  brownish-yellow,  and  somewhat  granular  externally,  or  covered  with  the 
glossy  dark-purple  paleae ; internally  white  and  mealy ; inodorous  and  of  a farinaceous  and 
sweetish  taste. 

Action  and  Uses. — Couch-grass  was  employed  by  the  ancients  as  a vulnerary  and 
for  the  relief  of  dysury.  They  also  believed  that  it  removed  stone,  or  at  least  gravel , 


1648 


TRIT  UR  A TIONES.— TRET  UR  A TIO  EL  A TERINI. 


from  the  bladder.  In  modern  times  it  has  been  very  generally  regarded  as  emollient, 
antiphlogistic,  and  diuretic.  Its  infusion  is  a common  medicinal  drink  in  European  hos- 
pitals and  private  life,  and  is  regarded  as  adapted  to  relieve  thirst,  allay  fever,  and  pro- 
mote urination.  It  was  formerly  employed  as  a popular  diet-drink  to  “ purify  the  blood  ” 
in  the  spring  season,  and  doubtless  assisted  in  purging,  through  the  kidneys,  the  accumu- 
lated organic  detritus  of  a long  winter.  It  was  also  thought  to  be  very  efficient  in  reliev- 
ing congestions  of  the  liver  and  portal  circulation  with  jaundice  arising  under  analogous 
circumstances,  and  in  a less  degree  chronic  bronchitis , skin  diseases,  gout,  etc.  It  was  even 
alleged  to  be  capable  of  curing  gastric  cancer  and  removing  biliary  calculi.  In  truth,  it 
possesses  no  special  medicinal  virtues  beyond  being,  when  given  in  infusion,  an  agreeable 
drink,  which,  owing  to  the  sugar  it  contains,  tends  to  increase  the  urinary  secretion,  and 
thereby  palliate  irritations  of  the  urinary  passages.  It  is  best  administered  in  a decoction 
prepared  with  Gin.  64-128  in  Gm.  1000  (^ij-iv  in  Oij)  of  water,  and  reduced  one-half 
by  boiling.  The  officinal  fluid  extract  may  be  used  for  the  same  purposes  if  largely 
diluted. 

The  seeds  of  Sorghum  vulgare , or  broom-corn,  are  said  to  have  been  in  common  use  as 
a remedy  for  disorders  of  the  bladder  by  the  plantation  negroes  of  Maryland  and  Vir- 
ginia. They  made  a decoction  by  boiling  2 ounces  of  the  seed  in  a quart  of  water  until 
reduced  to  a pint.  It  has  been  found  useful  as  a palliative  in  several  cases  of  cystitis  by 
Dr.  Garnett  ( Amer . Jour,  of  Med.  Sci.,  July,  1881,  p.  165). 


TRITUR  ATIONE  S,  U.  S.— Triturations. 

Triturations,  Fr. ; Triturationen,  G. 

This  term  has  been  used  in  homoeopathic  pharmacy  in  the  same  sense  in  which  it  has 
been  adopted  by  the  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia — namely,  for  powders  prepared  by  trituration 
of  a medicinal  substance  with  a definite  quantity  of  milk-sugar.  In  homoeopathy  this  is 
done  with  a view  of  developing  the  medicinal  power,  and  two  proportions  are  used, 
termed  the  centesimal  and  the  decimal  scales  ; 1 part  of  the  substance  being  triturated 
with  99  parts  or  with  9 parts  of  the  milk-sugar  gradually  added. 

Preparation. — The  directions  for  preparing  these  powders  are  very  similar  to  those 
followed  in  homoeopathic  dispensing,  excepting  that  the  length  of  time  for  mixing  and 
triturating  has  been  omitted. 

“ Triturations  are  to  be  prepared  by  the  following  formula : Take  of  the  substance  10 
parts,  sugar  of  milk,  in  moderately  fine  powder,  90  parts;  to  make  100  parts.  Weigh 
the  substance  and  sugar  of  milk  separately  ; then  place  the  substance,  previously  reduced, 
if  necessary,  to  a moderately  fine  powder,  in  a mortar;  add  about  an  equal  bulk  of  sugar 
of  milk,  mix  well  by  means  of  a spatula,  and  triturate  them  thoroughly  together.  Add 
fresh  portions  of  the  sugar  of  milk  from  time  to  time  until  the  whole  is  added,  and  con- 
tinue the  trituration  until  the  substance  is  intimately  mixed  with  the  sugar  of  milk,  and 
finely  comminuted.” — -U.  S. 

Uses. — The  utility  of  this  new  title  is  open  to  very  grave  doubts  on  moral  as  well  as 
therapeutical  grounds,  the  former  because  the  title  is  borrowed  from  a fraudulent  and 
illegitimate  system  of  medicine,  and  the  latter  because  all  of  the  liquid  and  most  of  the 
solid  medicines  dispensed  in  this  form  could  as  well  be  given  in  solution.  Moreover,  it 
encourages  the  prevalent  habit,  fostered  also  by  the  officinal  pills,  and  as  erroneous  scien- 
tifically as  it  is  practically  misleading,  that  the  doses  of  medicines  are  fixed  quantities. 
Sugar  of  milk  is  undoubtedly  susceptible  of  minuter  divisions  by  trituration  than  cane- 
sugar,  but  its  use  is  a practical  detail  that  may  very  well  be  left  to  the  physician  and 
the  pharmaceutist,  and  modified  according  to  circumstances. 

TRITUR ATIO  ELATERINI,  77.  Trituration  of  Elaterin. 

Trituration  d' elaterine,  Fr. ; Elaterintrituration,  G. 

Preparation. — Elaterin  10  parts,  Sugar  of  Milk  90  parts;  to  make  100  parts.  Mix 
them  thoroughly  by  trituration. — U.  S. 

Medical  Uses. — The  average  dose  of  elaterin  being  Gm.  0.004  grain),  and  the 
proportion  of  the  drug  in  the  trituration  being  one-tenth,  it  follows  that  the  dose  of  the 
latter  should  be  about  Gm.  0.05  (gr.  f). 


TROCHISCI. 


1649 


TROCHISCI,  TJ.  S.,  Br.,  P.  G.— Troches. 

Tabellse , F.  Cod  .—Lozenges,  E. ; Tablettes,  Pastilles , F.  ; Pastillen , Zeltchen , G. 

Troches  are  mixtures  of  medicinal  substances  with  sugar  or  extract  of  liquorice, 
formed  by  the  aid  of  mucilage  into  stiff,  pasty  masses,  and  divided  into  flat  circular, 
oblong,  rectangular,  or  stellate  pieces,  usually  weighing  about  10  or  20  grains.  A cylin- 
drical shape  has  been  adopted  for  a few  of  the  official  lozenges.  The  French  Codex 
makes  a distinction  between  tablettes  and  pastilles,  and  applies  the  former  term  to  the 
preparations  just  defined,  and  restricts  the  term  pastilles  to  the  sugar  drops  described 
below. 

Preparation. — The  dry  ingredients  are  separately  reduced  to  fine  powders  and  thor- 
oughly mixed  in  a mortar  or  by  sifting.  Volatile  oils,  tinctures,  and  similar  liquids 
should  now  be  intimately  incorporated  with  the  powder,  and  the  whole  beaten  into  a 
rather  firm  mass  by  the  addition  of  mucilage  of  tragacanth  or  of  acacia.  The  mass  is 
then  rolled  out  into  sheets  of  suitable  thickness  and  cut  into  the  requisite  number  of 
pieces  by  a punch.  A hard  and  smooth  board  or  a polished  marble  slab,  dusted  over 
with  finely-powdered  sugar,  is  well  adapted  for  this  purpose ; and  in  order  to  keep  the 
mass  at  a somewhat  elevated  temperature  while  being  rolled  out  the  roller  is  sometimes 
made  of  iron  or  glass  and  hollow  in  the  interior,  so  that  it  may  be  filled  with  water  of 
any  desired  temperature.  When  lozenges  are  ordered  on  extemporaneous  prescriptions, 
the  mass  is  usually  rolled  out  into  a square,  rectangular,  or  rhombic  cake,  and  then 
divided  by  means  of  a ruler  and  knife  into  the  requisite  number  of  pieces,  all  having  the 
same  size  and  shape.  After  lozenges  have  been 
cut  they  are  spread  out  on  a sieve  or  other  sur- 
face and  exposed  to  a current  of  warm  air  until 
they  are  sufficiently  dry. 

The  amount  of  powdered  tragacanth  necessary 
for  imparting  the  requisite  adhesiveness  varies 
with  the  nature  of  the  ingredients : 1 part  of  it 
is  sufficient  for  100  parts,  and  even  more,  of 
sugar  and  similar  powders  if,  after  the  addition 
of  water,  the  mass  is  well  beaten.  A much 
larger  proportion  of  tragacanth  renders  the  loz- 
enges, after  some  time,  very  hard  and  slowly 
soluble.  If  mucilage  of  acacia  is  employed 
instead  of  tragacanth,  the  lozenges  become  some- 
what translucent,  and  a similar  effect  is  produced  by  employing  the  white  of  eggs  as  the 
adhesive  material.  In  order  to  secure  a perfectly  smooth  paste  it  is  advisable  to  use 
bolted  sugar,  known  among  confectioners  as  lozenge  sugar,  which  can  be  had  pure  and 
in  almost  impalpable  powder.  In  place  of  mucilage,  fruit  paste  made  from  red  or  black 
currants  is  frequently  employed  in  the  preparation  of  lozenges : this,  aside  from  its 
agreeably  acidulous  taste,  is  highly  prized  in  the  treatment  of  certain  throat  affections. 
Some  manufacturers  employ  a machine  with  movable  dies  for  cutting  lozenges  of  any 
desired  shape,  and  for  stamping  them  at  the  same  time  with  the  name  of  the  principal 
ingredient.  A simple  instrument  for  cutting  lozenges  with  a tubular  punch  has  been 
described  by  A.  D.  Marcy  in  New  Remedies , 1882,  p.  34.  Lozenge-boards,  adjustable  for 
different  sizes,  are  described  by  F.  L.  Slocum  and  F.  E.  Harrison  in  Amer.  Jour.  Phar- 
macy, 1879,  p.  589,  and  1880,  p.  254. 

If  the  lozenges  are  to  be  made  of  a cylindrical  shape,  the  mass  is  rolled  out  into  thin 
cylinders,  in  a manner  similar  to  that  of  making  pills,  and  then  cut  into  shorter  pieces 
having  the  requisite  weight.  The  mass  should  be  sufficiently  firm  not  to  flatten  on  dry- 
ing, and  the  rolling-board,  instead  of  being  dusted  with  sugar,  is  greased  with  a little 
olive  oil,  to  prevent  the  mass  from  adhering  to  it.  (For  a description  and  sketch  of  an 
apparatus  by  F.  C.  Hill,  suitable  for  making  such  lozenges,  see  Amer.  Jour.  Phar.,  1874, 
p.  402.) 

The  general  directions  of  the  French  Codex  for  the  preparation  of  tablettes  agree  with 
the  description  given  above.  But  for  some  years  past  compressed  tablettes  have  been  in 
use,  prepared  in  a manner  similar  to  that  in  which  compressed  pills  are  made  (see  p. 
1238)  ; and  this  form  has  been  adopted  by  the  German  Pharmacopoeia,  which  gives  the 
following  general  directions:  “For  prepari-ng  sugar  pastilles,  the  whole  amount  of  the 
medicinal  substance  is  intimately  mixed  with  sufficient  powdered  sugar  to  make  each 
104 


Board,  Roller,  and  Punch  for  making  Lozenges. 


1650 


TROCHISCI  ACID  I TANNICI. 


lozenge  weigh  1 Gm. ; alcohol  (sp.  gr.  0.994)  is  now  carefully  added  to  produce  a damp 
powder,  which  by  compression  will  form  a coherent  mass ; from  this  powder  the  requisite 
number  of  lozenges  are  made.  For  chocolate  pastilles  a mass  is  made  by  melting  together, 
with  the  aid  of  a steam -bath,  equal  weights  of  cacao  and  sugar,  and  a sufficient  weight 
of  medicinal  substance  is  added,  so  as  to  form  lozenges  weighing  1 Gm. ; the  somewhat 
cooled  mass  is  then  divided  into  the  requisite  number  of  lozenges.” 

The  French  Codex  likewise  directs  the  tablettes  to  weigh  1 Gm.,  and  permits  some 
kinds  to  be  variously  flavored,  for  which  purpose  to  every  1000  Gm.  of  mass  may  be 
added  1 Gm.  of  volatile  oil  of  anise,  lemon,  or  peppermint  or  10  Gm.  of  tincture  of 
vanilla ; and  in  case  the  flavor  of  rose  or  orange-flower  is  desired,  the  distilled  aromatic 
water  is  used  in  the  place  of  water  for  preparing  the  mucilage  employed  in  rendering  the 
mass  plastic. 

Pastilli  (Rotula:)  sacchari. — Sugar  lozenges,  Sugar  drops,  E. ; Pastilles,  Orbi- 
cules,  Fr. ; Zuckerplatzchen,  G. — This  form  of  lozenges  is  usually  made  by  the  confec- 
tioner, and  the  medication  merely  is  left  to  the  pharmacist.  The  lozenges  are  prepared 
by  mixing,  in  a pan  having  a suitable  lip,  some  granulated  sugar  with  a sufficient  quan- 
tity of  water  to  form  a pasty  mixture  ; this  is  heated  carefully  to  prevent  empyreuma, 
until  it  begins  to  boil.  An  additional  quantity  of  -sugar  is  then  stirred  in  to  give  the 
requisite  consistence;  100  parts  of  sugar  require  about  12  to  15  parts  of  water.  The 
semi-liquid  mass  is  now  poured  out  upon  cold,  polished  sheet  iron  in  such  a manner  that 
each  drop  is  kept  separate,  when,  on  touching  the  iron  plate,  it  will  congeal  into  a flattish 
hemispherical  body.  The  peppermint  drops  of  the  French  Codex  are  made  in  this  man- 
ner, % per  cent,  of  oil  of  peppermint  being  incorporated  with  the  sugar  and  12?  per  cent, 
of  water ; this  mixture  is  heated  in  small  portions  and  dropped  in  the  manner  stated. 
Chocolate  drops  are  made  by  a similar  process.  The  term  trochisques,  formerly  used  in 
France  for  such  lozenges,  is  now  usually  applied  to  the  little  cones  obtained  in  drying 
elutriated  powders  (see  p.  552). 

Rotula:  menthad  piperita:,  P.  G. — Peppermint  drops,  E. ; Pastilles  de  menthe  a la 
goutte,  Fr. ; Pfefferminzkuchen,  G. — Dissolve  1 part  of  oil  of  peppermint  in  2 parts  of 
alcohol ; add  the  solution  to  200  parts  of  sugar  drops  in  a bottle,  and  well  agitate,  so  as 
to  impregnate  them  uniformly  with  the  liquid  ; afterward  expose  to  the  air  for  a few 
minutes,  and  when  the  alcohol  has  evaporated  keep  in  a stoppered  bottle.  By  substitut- 
ing other  volatile  oils  for  the  oil  of  peppermint,  lozenges  of  any  desired  flavor  may  be 
obtained. 

Most  of  the  lozenges  of  the  British  Pharmacopoeia  vary  but  slightly  from  1 Gm.  (15.43 
grains)  in  weight,  but  the  majority  of  the  troches  of  the  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia  weigh 
between  10|  and  121  grains,  or  between  .68  and  .80  Gm.,  while  troches  of  cubeb  weigh 
6f  grains  (.44  Gm.),  and  troches  of  potassium  chlorate  about  24  grains  (1.56  Gm.). 

In  addition  to  the  troches  described  below,  the  following  have  been  admitted  by  the 
French  Codex,  of  which  we  give  the  title  and  the  weight  of  medicinal  ingredient  in  each : 
Tablettes  de  baume  de  Tolu,  .05  Gm. ; T.  de  borate  de  soude,  .10  Gm.  ; T.  de  calomel, 
.05  Gm. ; T.  de  charbon,  .50  Gm. ; T.  de  gomine,  .01  Gm. ; T.  de  guimauve,  .01  Gm. ; T. 
de  kermes,  .01  Gm. ; T.  de  lichen  (made  with  one-third  saccharure,  p.  441)  ; T.  de  manne, 
.20  Gm. ; and  T.  de  soufre,  .10  Gm. 

TROCHISCI  ACIDI  TANNICI,  V.  S.,  Br.— Troches  of  Tannic  Acid. 

Tablettes  ( Pastilles ) de  tannin , Fr. ; Tanninpastillen,  G. 

Preparation. — Tannic  Acid  6 Gm.  ; Sugar,  in  fine  powder,  65  Gm. ; Tragacanth,  in 
fine  powder,  2 Gm. ; Stronger  Orange-flower  Water  a sufficient  quantity;  to  make  100 
troches.  Rub  the  powders  together  until  they  are  thoroughly  mixed ; then  with  orange- 
flower  water  form  a mass,  to  be  divided  into  100  troches. — U S. 

To  make  25  tannin  lozenges  use  25  grains  of  tannic  acid,  250  grains  of  sugar,  and  8 
grains  of  powdered  tragacanth. 

Tannic  acid  360  grains ; tincture  of  Tolu  1 fluidounce ; refined  sugar,  in  powder,  25 
oz.  av. ; gum-acacia,  in  powder,  1 oz.  av. ; mucilage  of  gum-acacia  2 fluidounces ; distilled 
water  1 fluidounce ; prepare  720  lozenges. — Br. 

Trochisci  acidi  benzoici,  Br.,  are  made  like  the  preceding  from  360  grains  of  benzoic 
acid,  but  omitting  tincture  of  Tolu. 

Uses. — Tannic-acid  troch.es  are  suitable  in  relaxed  states  of  the  mucous  membrane  of 
the  mouth,  throat,  and  larynx  to  allay  cough  produced  by  irritation  of  these  parts.  They 
may  also  be  used  in  mild  cases  of  diarrhoea  after  a preliminary  evacuation  of  the  bowels. 


TROCHISCI  AMMO  Nil  CHLORIDI-TROCHISCI  CRETJE. 


1651 


TROCHISCI  AMMONII  CHLORIDI,  U.  S. — Troches  of  Ammonium 

Chloride. 

Tablettes  ( Pastilles ) de  sel  ammoniac , Fr. ; Salmiakpastillen , G. 

Preparation. — Ammonium  Chloride,  in  fine  powder,  10  Gm. ; Extract  of  Glycyrrhiza,. 
in  fine  powder,  25  Gm. ; Sugar,  in  fine  powder,  50  Gm. ; Tragacanth,  in  fine  powder,  2 Gm. ; 
Syrup  of  Tolu  a sufficient  quantity ; to  make  100  troches.  Rub  the  powders  together 
until  they  are  thoroughly  mixed  ; then  with  syrup  of  Tolu  form  a mass,  to  be  divided  into 
100  troches. — U.  S. 

To  make  25  ammonium  chloride  lozenges  use  40  grains  of  ammonium  chloride,  100 
grains  of  extract  of  liquorice,  200  grains  of  sugar,  and  8 grains  of  powdered  tragacanth. 

Uses. — These  lozenges  may  be  used  to  palliate  subacute  and  chronic  inflammations 
of  the  throat  and  air-passages , but  they  are  less  efficient  than  the  inhalations  of  the  salt 
recommended  elsewhere. 

TROCHISCI  BISMUTHI,  Br.— Bismuth  Lozenges. 

Tabellse  cum  subnitrate  bismutlvico , F.  Cod. — Tablettes  ( Pastilles ) de  sous-nitrate  de  bis- 
muth, Fr. ; Wismuthpastillen,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Bismuth  Subnitrate  1440  grains ; Magnesium  Carbonate 
4 oz.  av. ; Precipitated  Calcium  Carbonate  6 ounces ; Refined  Sugar  29  ounces ; Gum- 
Acacia,  in  powder,  1 ounce ; Mucilage  of  Gum-Acacia  2 fluidounces ; Rose-water  a suffi- 
ciency. Mix  the  dry  ingredients,  then  add  the  mucilage,  and  form  the  whole  into  a 
proper  mass  with  rose-water.  Divide  the  mass  into  720  lozenges,  and  dry  these  in  a hot- 
air chamber  with  a moderate  heat.  Each  lozenge  contains  2 grains  of  bismuth  subni- 
trate.— Br. 

The  corresponding  lozenges  of  the  French  Codex  contain  0.10  Gm.  (1.5  grains)  of  the 
subnitrate,  but  no  magnesia  or  calcium  carbonate. 

Uses. — -This  form  of  administering  bismuth  is  very  unprofitable,  since  bismuth  does 
not  act  except  mechanically  and  by  diffusion. 

TROCHISCI  CATECHU,  U.  8.,  Br.— Troches  of  Catechu. 

Tabellse  cum  catechu , F.  Cod. — Catechu  lozenges , E. ; Tablettes  ( Pastilles ) de  cachou , 
Fr. ; Katechupastillen , G. 

Preparation. — Catechu,  in  fine  powder,  6 Gm. ; Sugar,  in  fine  powder,  65  Gm. ; 
Tragacanth,  in  fine  powder,  2 Gm. ; Orange-flower  Water  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make 
100  troches.  Rub  the  powders  together  until  they  are  thoroughly  mixed ; then  with 
orange-flower  water  form  a mass,  to  be  divided  into  100  troches. — U.  S. 

To  make  25  catechu  lozenges  use  25  grains  of  catechu,  250  grains  of  sugar,  and  8 
grains  of  powdered  tragacanth. 

Pale  catechu,  in  powder,  720  grains ; refined  sugar,  in  powder,  25  oz.  av. ; acacia,  in 
powder,  1 oz.  av. ; mucilage  of  gum-acacia  2 fluidounces ; distilled  water  a sufficiency ; 
prepare  720  lozenges. — Br.  Each  lozenge  contains  1 grain,  U.  S.,  Br.  (0.10  Gm.  = 1.5 
grains,  F.  Cod.')  of  catechu. 

Uses. — These  troches,  each  containing  1 grain  of  catechu,  are  serviceable  in  the  cases 
mentioned  under  Trochisci  Acidi  Tannici.  They  are  generally  employed  to  obviate  the 
hoarseness  or  huskiness  of  the  voice  due  to  prolonged  speaking  or  to  slight  pharyngeal  or 
laryngeal  catarrh. 

TROCHISCI  CRETJE,  U.  S.— Troches  of  Chalk. 

Tablettes  ( Pastilles ) de  craie  lavee , Fr. ; Kreidepastillen,  G. 

Preparation. — Prepared  Chalk  25  Gm.;  Acacia,  in  fine  powder,  7 Gm. ; Spirit  of 
Nutmeg  3 Cc. ; Sugar,  in  fine  powder,  40  Gm. ; Water  a sufficient  quantity ; to  make 
100  troches.  Rub  them  together  until  they  are  thoroughly  mixed ; then  with  water 
form  a mass,  to  be  divided  into  100  troches. — U.  B. 

To  make  25  chalk  lozenges  use  100  grains  of  prepared  chalk,  28  grains  of  acacia,  150 
grains  of  sugar,  and  12  minims  of  spirit  of  nutmeg. 

The  spirit  of  nutmeg  which  is  now  used  in  place  of  grated  nutmeg  (1880)  should  be 
well  triturated  with  a portion  of  the  sugar  before  mixing  with  the  other  ingredients. 
Each  lozenge  contains  4 grains  (.26  Gm.)  of  prepared  chalk. 


1652  TROCHISCI  C UBEBJE.— TR  0 CHI  SCI  GLYCYRRHIZA  ET  OPII. 


Uses. — Troches  of  chalk  may  he  used  to  correct  acidity  of  the  stomach  and  a slight 
tendency  to  diarrhoea. 

TROCHISCI  CUBEBM,  V.  S.— Troches  of  Cubeb. 

Pastilles  de  cubebe , Fr. ; Kubebenpastillen,  G. 

Preparation. — Oleoresin  of  Cubeb  4 Grin. ; Oil  of  Sassafras  1 Cc. ; Extract  of 
Glycyrrhiza,  in  fine  powder,  25  Gm. ; Acacia,  in  fine  powder,  12  Gm. ; Syrup  of  Tolu  a 
sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  100  troches.  Rub  the  powders  together  until  they  are 
thoroughly  mixed  ; then  add  the  oleoresin  and  oil  and  incorporate  them  with  the  mixture. 
Lastly,  with  syrup  of  Tolu  form  a mass,  to  be  divided  into  100  troches. — U.  S. 

To  make  25  cubeb  lozenges  use  16  grains  of  oleoresin  of  cubeb,  6 drops  of  oil  of 
sassafras,  100  grains  of  extract  of  liquorice,  and  48  grains  of  powdered  acacia. 

This  is  a modification  of  the  formula  for  Spitta's  lozenges , from  which  it  differs  essen- 
tially in  the  substitution  of  oleoresin  for  powdered  cubebs.  The  lozenges  are  usually 
made  of  a cylindrical  shape,  and  each  contains  about  grain  of  oleoresin  of  cubeb. 

Uses. — These  troches  are  chiefly  used  in  cases  of  subacute  and  chronic  inflammation 
of  the  pharynx  and  larynx , especially  when  these  parts  are  covered  with  viscid  mucus. 

TROCHISCI  FERRI,  U.  S.— Troches  of  Iron. 

Tablettes  (. Pastilles ) de  V hydrate  de  fer,  Fr. ; Ferrihydrat-Pastillen,  G. 

Preparation. — Ferric  hydroxide,  dried  at  a temperature  not  exceeding  80°  C.  (176° 
F.),  30  Gm. ; Vanilla,  cut  into  slices,  1 Gm. ; Sugar,  in  fine  powder,  100  Gm. ; Mucilage 
of  Tragacanth  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  100  troches.  Rub  the  vanilla  first  with  a 
portion  of  the  sugar  to  a uniform  powder,  and  afterward  with  the  iron  and  the  remainder 
of  the  sugar,  until  they  are  thoroughly  mixed.  Then  with  mucilage  of  tragacanth  form 
a mass,  to  be  divided  into  100  troches. — -U.  S. 

To  make  25  iron  lozenges  use  116  grains  of  carefully  dried  ferric  hydroxide,  4 grains 
of  sliced  vanilla  bean,  and  386  grains  of  sugar. 

Each  lozenge  contains  nearly  5 grains  of  ferric  hydroxide.  The  French  Codex  recog- 
nizes three  lozenges  made  with  soluble  salts  of  iron — namely,  Tablettes  de  lactate  de  fer, 
T.  de  citrate  de  fer  ammoniacal,  and  T.  de  tartrate  de  fer  ammoniacal. — F.  Cod.  These 
are  flavored  with  vanilla,  and  each  lozenge  contains  .05  Gm.  (f  grain)  of  the  salt. 

Uses. — Ferric  hydroxide  of  iron  in  troches  is  only  a little  less  objectionable  than  the 
reduced  iron  troches  of  the  British  Pharmacopoeia.  Both  deserve  to  be  classed  among 
pharmaceutical  and  medical  superfluities.  We  may  repeat  concerning  troches  of  iron 
what  was  said  of  troches  of  the  subcarbonate  of  iron  in  a former  edition  of  this  work : 
they  are  convenient  for  administering  to  “ refractory  children,  who  may  be  tempted  by 
their  agreeable  flavor  to  take  them.”  Each  troche  contains  Gm.  0.30  (gr.  v)  of  hydrated 
oxide  of  iron. 

TROGHISCI  FERRI  REDACTI,  Br.~ Reduced  Iron  Lozenges. 

Tablettes  ( Pastilles ) de  fer , Tablettes  chalybees , Fr. ; Eisenpastillen , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Reduced  Iron  720  grains ; Refined  Sugar,  in  powder,  25  oz. 
av. ; Gum-Acacia,  in  powder,  1 oz.  av. ; Mucilage  of  Gum-Acacia,  2 fluidounces ; Dis- 
tilled Water  1 fluidounce  or  a sufficiency.  Mix  the  iron,  sugar,  and  gum,  and  add  the 
mucilage  and  water  to  form  a proper  mass.  Divide  into  720  lozenges,  and  dry  these  in 
a hot-air  chamber  with  a moderate  heat.  Each  lozenge  contains  1 grain  of  reduced  iron. 
—Br. 

Uses. — It  is  not  easy  to  discern  the  merits  of  this  preparation.  Reduced  iron  can  be 
serviceable  only  when  it  is  acidulated  by  the  gastric  acids,  and  that  action  is  better  secured 
by  administering  it  in  powder. 

TROCHISCI  GLYCYRRHIZM  ET  OPE,  U.  S.— Troches  of  Glycyr- 
rhiza (Liquorice)  and  Opium. 

Trocliisci  opii1  Br. — Opium  lozenges , E. ; Pastilles  d' opium,  P.  de  reglisse  opiacees , Fr. ; 
Opiumpastillen , G. 

Preparation. — Extract  of  Glycyrrhiza,  in  fine  powder,  15  Gm. ; Powdered  Opium 
0.5  Gm. ; Acacia,  in  fine  powder,  12  Gm.  ; Sugar,  in  fine  powder,  20  Gm. ; Oil  of  Anise 
0.2  Cc. ; to  make  100  troches.  Rub  the  powders  together  until  they  are  thoroughly 


TROCHISCI  IPECACUANHA.— TROCHISCI  ERA  MERLE. 


1653 


mixed  ; then  add  the  oil  of  anise,  and  incorporate  it  with  the  mixture.  Lastly,  with 
water  form  a mass,  to  be  divided  into  100  troches. — U.  S. 

To  make  25  liquorice-and-opium  lozenges  use  58  grains  of  extract  of  liquorice,  2 
grains  of  powdered  opium,  48  grains  of  acacia,  78  grains  of  sugar,  and  1 drop  of  oil 
of  anise. 

Extract  of  opium  72  grains,  tincture  of  Tolu  1 fluidounce ; refined  sugar,  in  powder, 
16  oz.  av.  ; gum-acacia,  in  powder,  2 oz.  av. ; extract  of  liquorice  6 oz.  av.  ; distilled 
water  a sufficiency  ; prepare  720  lozenges. — Br. 

The  lozenge  of  the  first  formula  (£7.  S.)  contains  about  grain  of  powdered  opium, 
and  that  of  the  second  formula  (i?r.)  grain  of  extract  of  opium.  The  lozenges  of 
the  United  States  Pharmacopoeia  are  much  used  under  the  name  of  Wistar's  cougli 
lozenges,  and  are  prepared  of  a cylindrical  shape.  Lozenges  of  the  same  shape  and 
composition,  but  with  the  omission  of  opium,  have  been  introduced  as  liquorice  lozenges, 
and  are  similar  to  the  Trochisci  bediici  nigri , which  are  still  used  to  some  extent  in  Europe, 
and  usually  contain  a small  quantity  of  orris-root  and  balsam  of  Tolu. 

Uses. — This  popular  medicine  is  well  adapted  for  use  in  bronchitis  and  laryngitis 
attended  with  harassing  cough,  but  without  marked  febrile  reaction.  Its  efficiency  is 
greatly  increased  in  the  more  acute  forms  of  the  affections  mentioned  by  the  addition 
of  a minute  proportion  of  tartar  emetic,  not  exceeding  the  fortieth  of  a grain,  or  of 
half  a grain  of  ipecacuanha,  to  each  troche.  On  an  average,  one  troche  may  be  taken 
every  three  hours,  but  in  general  it  is  better  to  use  the  third  of  a troche  every  hour. 
Patients  are  very  apt  to  use  them  in  excess,  and  thereby  induce  constipation  and  loss  of 
appetite. 

TROCHISCI  IPECACUANHA,  U.  S.,  Br.— Troches  of  .Ipecac. 

Tabelloe  cum  ipecacuanha,  F.  Cod.  ; Ipecacuanha  lozenges,  E.  ; Tablettes  ( Pastilles ) 
cC ipecacuanha,  Fr.  ; Brechwurzelpastillen , G. 

Preparation. — Ipecac,  in  No.  60  powder,  2 Gm.  ; Tragacanth,  in  fine  powder,  2 
Gm.  ; Sugar,  in  fine  powder,  65  Gm.  ; Syrup  of  Orange  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make 
100  troches.  Rub  the  powders  together  until  they  are  thoroughly  mixed  ; then  with 
syrup  of  orange  form  a mass,  to  be  divided  into  100  troches. — U.  S. 

To  make  25  ipecac  lozenges  use  8 grains  of  powdered  ipecac,  8 grains  of  tragacanth, 
and  250  grains  of  sugar. 

Ipecacuanha,  in  powder,  180  grains  ; refined  sugar,  in  powder,  25  oz.  av. ; gum-acacia, 
in  powder,  1 oz.  av. ; mucilage  of  gum-acacia  2 fluidounces ; distilled  water  1 fluidounce 
or  a sufficiency  ; prepare  720  lozenges. — Br. 

Each  lozenge  contains  about  .02  Gm.  (£  grain)  U.  S.,  1 grain  Br.,  0.01  Gm.  grain) 
F.  Cod.,  of  ipecacuanha. 

Uses. — Ipecacuanha  troches  are  useful  in  laryngeal  and  bronchial  inflammation 
before  secretion  has  been  established.  One  troche,  containing  a third  of  a grain 
of  ipecacuanha,  may  be  taken  every  half  hour  until  the  dryness  of  the  air-passages 
abates  or  the  stomach  begins  to  be  nauseated.  On  the  other  hand,  they  are  often  very 
serviceable  in  humid  asthma,  or  that  asthmatic  affection  which  is  met  with  in  cases  of 
pulmonary  emphysema  complicated  with  obstructive  disease  of  the  heart,  especially  as 
they  may  conveniently  be  carried  about  by  the  patient  and  used  in  anticipation  of  a 
paroxysm. 

TROCHISCI  KRAMERIA,  TJ.  S. — Troches  of  Krameria. 

Tablettes  ( Pastilles ) de  ratanhia,  Fr.  ; Ratanhiapastillen , G. 

Preparation.  — Extract  of  Krameria  6 Gm.  ; Sugar,  in  fine  powder,  65  Gm. ; Traga- 
canth, in  fine  powder,  2 Gm.  ; Orange-flower  Water  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  100 
troches.  Rub  the  powders  together  until  they  are  thoroughly  mixed;  then  with  orange- 
flower  water  form  a mass,  to  be  divided  into  100  troches. — IT.  S. 

To  make  25  rhatany  lozenges  use  25  grains  of  extract  of  rhatany,  250  grains  of  sugar, 
and  8 grains  of  powdered  tragacanth. 

Uses. — Krameria  troches  may  be  used  for  the  same  purposes  as  tannic  acid  or  catechu 
troches — i.  e.  for  constringing  the  mucous  membrane  of  the  mouth,  fauces,  larynx,  and 
digestive  canal. 


1654  TEOCHISCI  MENTHJE  PI  PE  BIT JE. — TR  0 CHISCI  POTASSII  CHLORATIS. 


TROCHISCI  MENTHA  PIPERITA,  U.  S. — Troches  of  Peppermint. 

Tabellae  cum  oleo  volatile  menthae  piperitae , Fr.  Cod. ; Tablettes  de  merit  he,  Pastilles  de 
menthe  anglaises , Fr.  ; Pfejferminzpastillen , G. 

Preparation. — Oil  of  Peppermint  1 Cc. ; Sugar,  in  fine  powder,  80  Gm. ; Mucilage 
of  Tragacanth  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  100  troches.  Rub  the  oil  of  peppermint 
and  the  sugar  together  until  they  are  thoroughly  mixed  ; then  with  mucilage  of  traga- 
canth form  a mass,  to  be  divided  into  100  troches. — U.  S. 

To  make  25  peppermint  lozenges  use  5 drops  of  oil  of  peppermint  and  310  grains  of 
sugar. 

These  lozenges,  made  according  to  the  French  Codex,  contain  1 per  cent  of  the  vola- 
tile oil.  (See  also  Pastilli  Sacchari  and  Rotulae  Menthae  Piperitae , under  the  general 
heading  Trochisci.) 

Uses. — Peppermint  troches  are  employed  to  relieve  flatulence  and  colic  and  to  prevent 
sea-sickness  and  other  forms  of  nausea.  They  are  apt  to  excite  gastric  pain  when  too 
freely  used. 

TROCHISCI  MORPHINE,  Br. — Morphine  Lozenges. 

Pastilles  de  morphine , Fr.  ; M orp hinpastillen , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Morphine  Hydrochlorate  20  grains ; Tincture  of  Tolu  ^ 
fluidounce ; Refined  Sugar,  in  powder,  24  oz.  av. ; Gum-Acacia,  in  powder,  1 oz.  av.  ; 
Mucilage  of  Gum-Acacia  a sufficiency;  Distilled  Water  £ fluidounce.  Dissolve  the 
morphine  hydrochlorate  in  the  water ; add  this  solution  to  the  tincture  of  Tolu,  pre- 
viously mixed  with  2 ounces  of  the  mucilage;  then  add  the  gum  and  sugar,  previously 
mixed,  and  more  mucilage  if  necessary  to  form  a proper  mass.  Divide  into  720  lozenges, 
and  dry  these  in  a hot-air  chamber  with  a moderate  heat. — Br. 

Uses. — Each  of  these  lozenges  contains  about  Gm.  0.0018  (-yg-  grain)  of  morphine 
hydrochlorate.  They  are  chiefly  used  to  allay  laryngeal  and  bronchial  irritation. 

TROCHISCI  MORPHINE  ET  IPECACUANHA,  U.  S.,  Br.— Troches 

of  Morphine  and  Ipecac. 

Morphia  and  ipecacuanha  lozenges , E. ; Tablettes  ( Pastilles ) de  morphine  et.  d' ipecacu- 
anha, Fr.  ; Morphinpastillen  mit  Brechwurzel , G. 

Preparation. — Morphine  Sulphate  0.16  Gm.  ; Ipecac,  in  No.  60  powder,  0.5  Gm.; 
Sugar,  in  fine  powder,  65  Gm.  ; Oil  of  Gaultheria  0.2  Cc. ; Mucilage  of  Tragacanth  a 
sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  100  troches.  Rub  the  powders  together  until  they  are 
thoroughly  mixed ; then  add  the  oil  of  gaultheria,  and  incorporate  it  with  the  mixture. 
Lastly,  with  mucilage  of  tragacanth  form  a mass,  to  be  divided  into  100  troches. — 
US. 

To  make  25  morphine-and-ipecac  lozenges  use  f grain  of  morphine  sulphate,  2 grains 
of  powdered  ipecac,  250  grains  of  sugar,  and  1 drop  of  oil  of  gaultheria. 

Morphine  hydrochlorate  20  grains;  ipecacuanha,  in  fine  powder,  60  grains;  tincture 
of  Tolu  2 fluidounce  ; refined  sugar,  in  powder,  24  oz.  av.  ; gum-acacia,  in  powder,  1 oz. 
av. ; mucilage  of  gum-acacia  a sufficiency  ; distilled  water  i fluidounce  ; prepare  720 
lozenges. — Br. 

Uses. — Each  of  these  troches  contains  about  Gm.  0.0016  (gr.  of  morphine  sul- 
phate or  hydrochlorate  and  Gm.  0.005  (gr.  y1^)  of  ipecacuanha.  They  allay  cough  and 
promote  expectoration. 

TROCHISCI  POTASSII  CHLORATIS,  U.  S.,  Br.— Troches  of 
Potassium  Chlorate. 

Tabellae  cum  chlorate  pot assico,  F.  Cod. — Tablettes  ( Pastilles ) de  chlorate  de  potasse,  Fr. ; 
Kaliumchlorat-  Pastillen , G. 

Preparation. — Potassium  Chlorate,  in  fine  powder,  30  Gm. ; Sugar,  in  fine  powder, 
120  Gm. , Tragacanth,  in  fine  powder,  6 Gm. ; Spirit  of  Lemon  1 Cc.  Mix  the  sugar 
with  the  tragacanth  and  the  spirit  of  lemon  by  trituration  in  a mortar ; then  transfer  the 
mixture  to  a sheet  of  paper,  and  by  means  of  a bone  spatula  mix  with  it  the  potassium 
chlorate,  being  careful  to  avoid  trituration  and  pressure,  to  prevent  the  mixture  from 


TR  O CHISCt  SA  iV  TON LX L—TR  0 C II  ISC  I S UL  PH  l TRIS. 


1655 


igniting  or  exploding.  Lastly,  with  water  form  a mass,  to  be  divided  into  100  troches. — 

u, : s. 

To  make  25  potassium  chlorate  lozenges  use  116  grains  of  finely-powdered  potassium 
chlorate,  465  grains  of  sugar,  25  grains  of  tragacanth,  and  6 drops  of  spirit  of  lemon. 

Take  of  potassium  chlorate,  in  powder,  3600  grains ; refined  sugar,  in  powder,  25 
ounces  ; gum-acacia,  in  powder,  1 ounce  ; mucilage  of  gum-acacia,  2 fluidounces  ; distilled 
water  1 fluidounce  or  a sufficiency.  Mix  the  powders,  and  add  the  mucilage  and  water 
to  form  a proper  mass.  Divide  into  720  lozenges,  and  dry  these  in  a hot-air  chamber 
with  a moderate  heat. — Br. 

By  the  above  formulas  lozenges  are  obtained  containing  a little  over  41  grains,  U.  S., 
and  exactly  5 grains,  Br.,  of  potassium  chlorate ; those  of  the  French  Codex  contain 
only  0.10  Gm.  (1.5  grains)  of  the  same  salt. 

Uses. — Potassium  chlorate  troches  may  be  used  in  the  treatment  of  aphthae  and  other 
forms  of  ulcer  of  the  mouth  and  throat,  but  they  are  much  less  efficient  than  solutions 
of  the  chlorate. 

TROCHISCI  SANTONINI,  V.  S.,  Br.,  B.  G.— Troches  of  Santonin. 

Santonin  lozenges , E.  ; Tahlettes  ( Pastilles ) de  santonine , Fr. ; Santoninzeltchen , G. 

Preparation. — Santonin,  in  fine  powder,  3 Gm. ; Sugar,  in  fine  powder,  110  Gm.  ; 
Tragacanth,  in  fine  powder,  3 Gm. ; Stronger  Orange-flower  Water  a sufficient  quantity ; 
to  make  100  troches.  Rub  the  powders  together  until  they  are  thoroughly  mixed  ; then 
with  stronger  orange-flower  water  form  a mass,  to  be  divided  into  100  troches.  Santonin 
troches  should  be  kept  in  dark,  amber-colored  bottles. 

To  make  25  santonin  lozenges  use  12  grains  of  santonin,  425  grains  of  sugar,  and  12 
grains  of  tragacanth. 

Santonin,  720  grains;  refined  sugar,  in  powder,  25  ounces;  gum-acacia,  in  powder,  1 
ounce;  mucilage  of  gum-acacia  2 fluidounces  ; distilled  water  1 fluidounce;  prepare  720 
lozenges. — Br. 

The  official  santonin  lozenges  of  the  U.  S.  P.  contain  about  i grain  of  santonin,  while 
those  of  the  Br.  and  Germ.  Pharm.  contain  1 grain  each. 

Uses. — Troches  of  santonin  are  a convenient  preparation  of  an  efficient  anthelmintic. 
Like  other  preparations  of  this  medicine,  they  should  be  given  in  the  evening  to  lessen 
the  annoyance  produced  by  the  yellow  vision  they  occasion. 

TROCHISCI  SODH  BICARBONATIS,  IT.  S.,  Br.— Troches  of  Sodium 

Bicarbonate. 

Tahellae  cum  bicarbonate  sodico,  F.  Cod. — Bicarbonate  of  soda  lozenges,  E. ; Tahlettes 
(Pastilles)  de  bicarbonate  de  soude,  P.  de  Vichy,  P.  digestives,  Fr. ; Natronpastillen,  G. 

Preparation. — Sodium  Bicarbonate  20  Gm. ; Sugar,  in  fine  powder,  60  Gm. ; Nut- 
meg, in  fine  powder,  1 Gm. ; Mucilage  of  Tragacanth  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  100 
troches.  Rub  the  sodium  bicarbonate  with  the  powders  until  they  are  thoroughly  mixed  ; 
then  with  mucilage  of  tragacanth  form  a mass,  to  be  divided  into  100  troches. — U.  S. 

To  make  25  sodium  bicarbonate  lozenges  use  75  grains  of  sodium  bicarbonate,  240 
grains  of  sugar,  and  4 grains  of  nutmeg. 

Sodium  bicarbonate  3600  grains ; refined  sugar,  in  powder,  25  oz.  av. ; gum-acacia,  in 
powder,  1 oz.  av. ; mucilage  of  gum-acacia  2 fluidounces ; distilled  water  1 fluidounce ; 
prepare  720  lozenges. — Br. 

The  freshly-grated  nutmeg  should  be  rubbed  with  a portion  of  the  sugar  to  a uniform 
powder,  and  afterward  thoroughly  mixed  with  the  remaining  powders.  In  France  these 
lozenges  are  variously  flavored,  either  with  the  volatile  oil  of  anise,  lemon,  or  pepper- 
mint, with  the  distilled  water  of  orange-flowers  or  rose,  or  with  tincture  of  vanilla.  As 
directed  by  the  different  pharmacopoeias,  the  lozenges  contain  .33  Gm.  (5  grains)  Br.,  .20 
Gm.  (3  grains)  U.  S.,  and  0.025  Gm.  (f  grain)  F.  Cod.,  of  sodium  bicarbonate. 

Uses. — Troches  of  sodium  bicarbonate  are  convenient  and  useful  in  cases  of  habitual 
acidity  of  the  stomach.  The  utility  of  the  nutmeg  they  contain  is  not  apparent. 

TROCHISCI  SULPHURIS,  Br.  Add. — Sulphur  Lozenges. 

Tahlettes  ( Pastilles ) de  soufre,  Fr. ; SchwefelpastiUen , G. 

Preparation. — Precipitated  Sulphur  3600  grains ; Acid  Potassium  Tartrate,  Acacia, 
in  powder,  each  720  grains;  Refined  Sugar,  in  powder,  5760  grains;  Tincture  of  Orange- 


1656 


TROCHISCI  ZING  IB  ERIS— TUSSILAGO. 


peel,  Mucilage  of  Acacia,  each  720  minims.  Mix  the  tincture  of  orange-peel  with  the 
powders,  and  add  the  mucilage,  to  form  a suitable  mass.  Divide  into  720  lozenges,  and 
dry  these  in  a hot-air  chamber  at  a moderate  temperature. — Br.  Add. 

Each  lozenge  contains  5 grains  of  sulphur. 

TROCHISCI  ZINGIBERIS,  V.  S.— Troches  of  Ginger. 

Tablettes  ( Pastilles ) de  gingembre , Fr. ; h igwerp astillen , G. 

Preparation. — Tincture  of  Ginger  20  Cc. ; Tragacanth,  in  fine  powder,  4 Gm. ; 
Sugar,  in  fine  powder,  130  Gm. ; Syrup  of  Ginger  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  100 
troches.  Mix  the  tincture  of  ginger  with  the  sugar,  and,  having  exposed  the  mixture  to 
the  air  until  dry,  reduce  it  to  a fine  powder ; to  this  add  the  tragacanth  and  mix  thor- 
oughly. Lastly,  with  syrup  of  ginger  form  a mass,  to  be  divided  into  100  troches. — 
U S. 

To  make  25  ginger  lozenges  use  80  minims  of  tincture  of  ginger,  16  grains  of  traga- 
canth, and  500  grains  of  sugar. 

Uses. — Troches  of  ginger  are  used  to  relieve  flatulent  colic  and  quicken  laborious 
digestion. 


TUSSILAGO. — Coltsfoot. 

Tussilage , Pas  Pane,  Fr. ; Huflattig , Rosshuf ’ G. ; Tnsilago  una  de  caballo , Sp. 

Tussilago  Farfara,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Composite,  Eupatorieae. 

Origin  and  Description. — Coltsfoot  is  a perennial  herb  which  is  indigenous  to 
Europe  and  Northern  Asia,  has  been  naturalized  in  the  United  States  from  New  England 
to  Pennsylvania,  and  grows  in  damp  clayey  soil  and  along  ditches  and  brooks.  All  parts 
of  the  plant  have  been  used,  but  the  leaves  and  flower-heads  have  been  generally 
employed,  and  the  former  have  been  admitted  into  the  German,  the  latter  into  the 
French,  Pharmacopoeia.  The  rhizome  is  creeping,  30-45  Cm.  (12  to  18  inches)  long, 
branching,  about  3 Mm.  (f  inch)  thick,  with  joints  about  5 Cm.  (2  inches)  long,  radiat- 
ing on  the  nodes,  and  of  a grayish-white  or  pale-brownish  color.  It  is  fragile  when  dry, 
has  a thick  whitish  bark,  yellowish  porous  wood-wedges,  and  a prominent  pith,  is  inodor- 
ous, and  has  a mucilaginous,  bitterish,  and  astringent  taste.  The  leaves  ( Folia  farfarse , 
s.  tussilaginis,  P.  G.)  appear  after  the  flowers,  and  are  radical,  long-petiolate,  about  10  Cm. 
(4  inches)  long  and  broad,  roundish  heart-shaped,  angular-toothed,  dark-green  and  smooth 
above,  and  white  tomentose  beneath.  They  are  rather  fleshy  while  fresh,  and  fragile 
after  drying.  The  flower-heads  ( Tussilage  [ capitide\ , Fr.  Cod.)  are  smaller  than  those  of 
dandelion,  make  their  appearance  in  early  spring  upon  scaly  scapes,  and  have  a cylindrical 
involucre  of  lance-linear  scales  in  a single  row,  numerous  yellow  narrowly-ligulate  pistil- 
late ray-florets  in  several  rows,  and  about  twenty  tubular  staminate  disk-florets.  The 
pappus  is  long,  silky-hairy,  and  white.  The  dried  flowers  and  leaves  are  inodorous  and 
have  a mucilaginous,  bitterish,  and  somewhat  astringent  taste. 

The  rhizome  of  Asarum  canadense  is  known  in  some  parts  of  the  United  States  as 
coltsfoot-root. 

Constituents. — All  parts  of  coltsfoot  contain  mucilage , a bitter  principle  which  has 
not  been  isolated,  and  tannin , producing  a dark-green  precipitate  with  ferric  salts. 

Allied  Drugs. — Senecio,  Groundsel,  E. ; Kreuzkraut,  Jacobskraut,  G.  Nat.  Ord.  Composite, 
Senecionidese.  Several  European  species  of  this  genus  have  been  employed,  among  which  may 
be  mentioned  Sen.  Saracenicus,  S.  Doronicum,  S.  Jacobasa,  and  S.  vulgaris,  Linne.  The  latter, 
with  rayless  flower-heads,  is  a common  weed  in  Europe  and  sparingly  naturalized  in  North 
America.  It  has  lanceolate,  pinnatifid,  and  toothed,  clasping  and  rather  fleshy  leaves,  and  a 
cylindrical  involucre  ; it  is  inodorous  and  has  a bitterish  saline  and  acrid  taste.  The  most  com- 
mon North  American  species  is  Senecio  aureus,  Linne , known  as  golden  rag-weed , squaw-weed , 
and  life-root.  It  is  found  on  the  borders  of  streams,  in  thickets,  and  in  swamps,  and  has  a thin 
horizontal  rhizome  with  numerous  slender  rootlets  ; long-petioled,  round  or  roundish  heart- 
shaped,  and  crenately  toothed  radical  leaves  ; lyrate  or  pinnatifid,  usually  lanceolate  stem-leaves ; 
and  a corymbose  inflorescence  with  many-flowered  heads,  having  bright-yellow  pistillate  ray-florets. 
There  are  many  varieties,  differing  chiefly  in  the  shape  of  the  radical  leaves.  These  plants  seem 
to  contain  a little  tannin  and  a bitter  and  an  acrid  principle. 

Action  and  Uses. — Coltsfoot  was  anciently  renowned  in  pulmonary  affections,  for 
whose  relief  the  smoke  of  its  burning  root  was  inhaled  through  a funnel ; even  in  modern 
times  it  was  smoked  in  pipes  for  the  same  purpose  by  the  peasantry  of  Sweden  and  Ger- 


TJLMTJS. 


1657 


many.  It  is  demulcent  and  tonic  through  its  mucilaginous  and  bitter  constituents,  and 
has  been  compared  in  its  action  to  Iceland  moss.  It  has  been  widely  used  in  the  treat- 
ment of  chronic  bronchitis  and  for  various  scrofulous  affections,  both  internally  and  locally. 
It  may  be  administered  in  decoction  or  infusion  made  with  the  dried  leaves  and  flowers, 
Gm.  32  to  Gm.  500  (§j  in  Oj)  of  water.  The  expressed  juice  is  also  employed. 

Cineraria  maritima  was  said,  in  1888,  to  have  been  successfully  used  in  Venezuela 
for  the  removal  of  cataract  by  the  application  to  the  eye  of  the  juice  of  the  fresh  plant. 
There  has,  apparently,  been  no  confirmation  of  the  original  report. 

Senecio,  or  groundsel,  appears  to  be  emollient  and  also  slightly  acrid.  It  was  employed 
by  the  American  aborigines  as  a vulnerary.  In  Germany  its  juice  is  a domestic  remedy 
for  colic,  intestinal  worms , etc.  It  is  used  in  France  to  prepare  gargles  for  sore  throats , to 
make  poultices  for  boils , rheumatic  swellings , and  local  cutaneous  eruptions , and  to  prepare 
emollient  and  laxative  enemas.  Dr.  N.  S.  Davis  found  that  in  doses  of  Gm.  3-6  (ttlxIv- 
xc)  the  fluid  extract  of  senecio-root  relieved  the  pains  of  chronic  muscular  rheumatism 
( Phila . Med.  Times , ix.  634).  A decoction  may  be  prepared  with  Gm.  4-8  in  Gm.  120 
(f§j-ij  in  fgiv)  of  water. 

ULMUS,  U,  S. — Elm  ; Slippery  Elm. 

TJlmi  cortex , Cortex  ulmi  interior. — Elm-barh , E. ; Orme  fauve,  Orme  champetre,  F. 
Cod. ; Ulmenrinde , Riisterrinde , G. ; Olmo,  Sp. 

The  inner  bark  of  Ulmus  fulva,  Michaux  (C.  S.,  F.  Cod.),  of  Ulmus  campestris,  Linne 
(F.  Cod.).  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  232,  233. 

Nat.  Ord. — Urticaceae,  Ulmese. 

Origin. — The  elms  are  trees  with  alternate,  oblique,  and  slightly  heart-shaped,  ser- 
rate, and  straight -veined  leaves,  and  with  lateral  clusters  of  small  polygamous  flowers, 
having  a bell-shaped  four-  to  nine-lobed  perianth,  the  same  number  of  stamens,  and  two 
nearly  sessile  styles.  The  fruit  is  a one-celled  and  one-seeded  samara,  surrounded  with  a 
membranous  wing,  which  is  notched  or  cleft  at  the  apex.  The  American  official  elm, 
known  as  slippery  elm,  red  elm , or  moose  elm,  is  a small  or  medium-sized  tree,  which  is 
usually  about  9,  and  occasionally  18,  M.  (30-60  feet)  high,  with  a diameter  of  30-60  Cm. 
(1  or  2 feet),  and  with  a reddish  wood.  The  leaves  are  10-20  Cm.  (4  to  8 inches)  long, 
elliptic-oblong,  pointed  and  very  rough  above  ; the  flowers  are  reddish  pubescent,  precede 
the  leaves,  and  have  the  perianth  six-  to  nine-cleft ; the  samara  is  orbicular  and  not  ciliate. 
The  tree  grows  in  woods  and  rich  soil  from  Canada  westward  to  Lake  Superior  and 
Nebraska,  and  southward  to  near  the  Gulf  of  Mexico,  but  is  most  abundant  in  the  West- 
ern States.  The  white  elm,  Ulmus  americana,  Linne , is  taller,  18-24  M.  (60  to  80  feet) 
high,  bears  an  oval,  on  the  margin  densely  ciliate  samara,  and  is  a favorite  shade-tree  in 
New  England. 

Ulmus  alata,  Michaux , the  winged  elm,  grows  in  the  Southern  United  States,  where  it 
is  known  as  wahoo  (see  also  p.  629).  The  wood  is  fine-grained  and  heavy,  and  the  bark, 
which  on  the  branches  has  prominent  corky  wings,  is  used  for  making  ropes. 

The  European  official  elm  is  probably  a native  of  Western  Asia  and  Eastern  Europe, 
but  now  is  naturalized  or  cultivated  throughout  the  greater  portion  of  Asia,  Europe,  and 
Northern  Africa.  It  has  likewise  been  introduced  in  some  parts  of  New  England.  Its 
leaves  are  only  about  6 Cm.  (2£  inches)  long,  oval  or  obovate,  and  acute  or  somewhat 
pointed  ; the  flowers  are  mostly  pentamerous,  and  the  samara  is  roundish-obovate,  smooth, 
and  has  the  seed  placed  near  the  apical  notch.  The  European  black  elm,  Ulmus  effusa, 
Willdenow,  which  has  larger  ovate  or  elliptical  leaves  and  roundish-elliptic  ciliate  fruits, 
likewise  furnishes  some  elm-bark. 

Description. — Slippery-elm  bark  is  met  with  in  commerce  in  flat  pieces,  consist- 
ing of  the  liber  only,  the  corky  layer  being  removed  before  drying,  and  usually  1 M. 
or  so  long  and  10-15  Cm.  (4  or  6 inches)  broad.  It  is  about  3 Mm.  (&  inch)  thick,  is 
externally  of  a very  light-cinnamon  color  or  pale  brownish-white,  smooth,  occasionally 
with  small  fragments  of  the  corky  layer  adhering,  and  upon  the  inner  surface  grayish- 
white,  finely  ridged  longitudinally,  and  usually  more  or  less  woolly  from  some  detached 
bast-fibres.  The  bark  breaks,  or  rather  tears,  readily  in  a longitudinal  direction,  the  frag- 
ments adhering  together  with  the  wavy  bast-fibres.  It  breaks  with  some  difficulty  in  a 
transverse  direction  with  a fibrous  and  mealy  fracture,  and  when  cut  transversely  the 
bast-fibres  are  seen  arranged  in  tangential  rows,  imbedded  in  a loose  parenchyma,  and  dis- 
sected by  numerous  fine  medullary  rays,  giving  to  the  transverse  section  a delicately 
checkered  appearance.  Slippery-elm  bark  has  a slight  but  distinct  odor,  resembling  that 


1658 


UNGUENT  A. 


of  fenugreek,  and  a mucilaginous,  insipid  taste.  It  is  also  met  with  as  a coarse  fibrous 
and  as  a somewhat  fine  and  uniform  powder,  both  having  a light  fawn-color. 

European  elm-bark. — It  resembles  the  preceding,  but  is  usually  rather  thinner,  upon 
both  surfaces  of  a cinnamon  color,  nearly  inodorous,  and  of  a mucilaginous,  bitterish, 
and  astringent  taste. 

Constituents. — Both  barks  contain  a considerable  amount  of  mucilage,  which,  as 
obtained  from  the  European  elm,  according  to  Braconnot  (1846),  resembles  the  mucilage 
of  flaxseed.  The  mucilage  of  slippery-elm  bark  is  precipitated  by  lead  acetate,  but 
alcohol  separates  from  its  solution  a gelatinous  liquid  ; starch  is  present  in  small  grains. 
European  elm-bark  contains  a small  quantity  of  a bitter  principle  which  has  not  been 
isolated,  and  a little  tannin,  which  is  precipitated  by  gelatin  and  the  salts  of  most  metals, 
gives  a dingy-green  precipitate  with  ferric  chloride,  reduces  gold  and  silver  salts,  is  a 
glucoside,  and  on  fusion  with  potassa  yields  pyrocatechin  and  acetic  and  butyric  acids 
(Johansen,  1875).  Starch  is  usually  not  present  in  the  bast-layer  of  this  bark. 

Action  and  Uses. — Slippery-elm  bark  is  highly  demulcent,  and  in  some  degree  nutri- 
tious. It  is  grateful  to  the  taste,  and  does  not  readily  disorder  the  stomach.  Like  the 
inner  bark  of  the  European  elm  (U.  Campestris),  which  is  slightly  astringent,  it  has 
been  used  with  alleged  advantage  in  chronic  cutaneous  eruptions , including  some  of  syph- 
ilitic origin.  It  is  also  asserted  to  be  a remedy  for  tape-worm.  It  is,  however,  chiefly 
employed  in  medicine  to  produce  a mucilage  which  is  officinal.  The  fibrous  bark,  disin- 
tegrated so  as  to  form  a mass  of  flexible  spongy  tissue,  is,  like  sea-tangle,  readily  moulded 
into  tents,  which  are  made  use  of  to  dilate  the  neck  of  the  uterus , fistulous  openings , etc., 
and  which  do  not  so  readily  become  offensive  as  sponge  tents.  They  have  also  been  satu- 
rated with  various  medicinal  extracts  and  used  as  vaginal  and  rectal  suppositories.  (Their 
preparation  was  described  by  Tuckerman,  Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  Jan.  1881,  p.  46.) 


UNGUENT  A,  U.  S*9  Bv F.  Cod.,  P.  G. — Ointments. 

Pomata , F.  Cod. — Pommades , Onguents , Fr. ; Salben.  G. ; Unguentos , Sp. 

Preparation. — Ointments  are  unctuous  preparations  of  such  a consistence  that  they 
may  be  easily  rubbed  on  the  skin,  and  when  in  contact  with  it  are  gradually  liquefied. 
They  consist  chiefly  of  benzoinated  lard,  or  lard  which  is  combined  in  some  cases  with  a 
small  quantity  (about  one-fifth)  of  wax,  yellow  wax  being  very  properly  preferred  by  the 
U.  S.  P.  and  P.  G.  ; in  some  cases  soft  paraffin  (petrolatum  or  paraffin  ointment,  see  p. 
1208)  is  used  for  the  base.  In  the  latter  case  the  ointment  is  prepared  by  careful  tritu- 
ration ; but  if  wax  is  a constituent,  this  is  first  melted  by  a moderate  heat,  and  the  lard 
added  in  small  quantities,  or  previously  heated  to  about  the  same  temperature  : the  ingredi- 
ents being  thoroughly  liquefied,  the  vessel  is  removed  from  the  fire,  and  its  contents  beaten 
with  a spatula  or  transferred  to  a warm  mortar,  and  then  well  stirred  with  the  pestle  to 
prevent  the  partial  separation  of  the  wax.  The  addition  of  aqueous  liquids,  which 
should  not  be  too  cold,  is  made  in  small  quantities,  and  with  continued  stirring  or  beat- 
ing, as  soon  as  the  ointment  begins  to  assume  an  opaque  appearance.  In  all  cases  the 
operation  should  be  continued  until  the  temperature  of  the  ointment  has  been  reduced  to 
that  of  the  surrounding  atmosphere,  and  until  the  preparation  is  perfectly  smooth  and 
homogeneous.  Solid  substances  may  be  incorporated  in  a similar  manner,  provided  they 
have  been  previously  reduced  to  an  impalpable  powder.  But  in  most  cases,  and  more 
particularly  when  the  powder  is  heavy,  much  better  and  more  uniform  ointments  are 
obtained  by  triturating  the  solid  material  until  a powder  is  obtained,  adding  a small 
quantity  of  oil  or  of  the  ointment,  and  continuing  the  trituration  until  all  signs  of  grit- 
tiness have  disappeared  ; after  which  the  remaining  portion  of  the  ointment  may  be 
gradually  added  and  thoroughly  incorporated.  Salts  and  other  substances  which  are 
soluble  in  water  are  often  conveniently  combined  with  the  fatty  base  by  dissolving  them 
in  a small  quantity  of  hot  water  and  incorporating  this  solution  in  a warm  mortar,  with 
the  ointment  gradually  added.  If  extracts  are  to  be  added  to  ointments,  they  should  be 
thoroughly  softened  in  a warm  mortar,  by  trituration  with  a little  water,  before  the  fat  is 
added  in  small  portions  and  with  continued  trituration.  Alcoholic  liquids,  except  when 
used  in  very  small  proportions,  are  less  conveniently  incorporated  with  ointments  than 
concentrated  aqueous  solutions.  Whenever  camphor  is  to  be  mixed  with  an  ointment, 
it  should  be  added  after  extracts  and  all  other  ingredients  have  been  incorporated  with 


UNO UENTUM— UNG UENTXJM  ACIDI  TANNICI. 


1659 


the  fatty  vehicle  : in  order  to  ensure  its  ready  solution  in  the  fat,  camphor  should  always 
be  used  in  the  form  of  fine  powder. 

Most  of  the  European  pharmacopoeias  make  no  distinction  between  cerates  and  oint- 
ments, but  designate  both  classes  as  unguenta.  In  France  the  term  onguent  is  usually 
confined  to  an  ointment  into  the  composition  of  which  resinous  substances  enter,  while 
ointments  with  a purely  fatty  base  are  designated  as  pommade* , and,  if  the  base  be  a 
mixture  of  wax  and  fat,  as  cerates.  In  Europe  olive  oil  or  almond  oil,  melted  together 
with  some  wax,  is  frequently  employed  as  the  base  for  ointments  in  preference  to  lard. 
(See  also  Cerata  (p.  432),  Steatina  (p.  433),  Glyceritum  Amyli  and  Glycel^um 
(p.  783).) 

Preservation. — With  few  exceptions,  ointments  should  be  prepared  extemporane- 
ously when  wanted  for  use.  The  fats  should  in  all  cases  be  free  from  incipient  rancidity, 
and,  if  carefully  prepared,  the  ointments  may  be  kept  for  a limited  time  in  well-closed 
vessels  and  in  a cool  place,  at  a temperature  of  about  15°  C.  (59°  F.). 

In  addition  to  the  formulas  given  farther  on,  the  following  are  contained  in  Br.  P. 
1885 : 

Unguentum  acidi  borici.  Boric  acid  1 oz. ; soft  paraffin  4 oz. ; hard  paraffin  2 oz. 

Unguentum  acidi  salicylici.  Salicylic  acid  60  gr. ; soft  paraffin  1080  gr. ; hard 
paraffin  540  gr. 

Unguentum  conii.  Hemlock-juice  2 fluidounces.  Evaporate  to  2 fluidrachms  at  a 
temperature  not  exceeding  60°  C.  (140°  F.)  ; add  boric  acid  10  grains  and  hydrous  wool- 
fat  f ounce,  and  mix  thoroughly. 

Unguentum  eucalypti.  Oil  of  eucalyptus  1 oz. ; soft  paraffin  2 oz.;  hard  paraffin 
2 oz. 

Unguentum  glycerini  plumbi  subacetatis.  Glycerin  of  lead  subacetate  3 oz.  ; 
soft  paraffin  12  oz. ; hard  paraffin  4 oz. 

Unguentum  hamamelidis.  Mix  liquid  extract  of  hamamelis  50  minims  with  simple 
ointment  410  grains. 

Unguentum  staphisagri^e.  Stavesacre-seeds  4 oz.  Crush  and  macerate  them  for 
two  hours  in  benzoated  lard  8 oz.,  melted  over  a water-bath  ; strain  and  cool. 

UNGUENTUM,  U.  Ointment. 

Unguentum  simplex , Br.,  P.  A.;  Unguentum  adipis. — Simple  ointment , E. ; Pommade 
simple , Fr. ; Wachssalbe,  G. 

Preparation. — Lard  800  Gm.  ; Yellow  Wax  200  Gm.  ; to  make  1000  Gm.  Melt 
the  wax  and  add  the  lard  gradually  ; then  stir  the  mixture  constantly  while  cooling. — 
U.  S. 

White  wax  2 oz.,  benzoated  lard  3 oz.,  almond  oil  3 fluidounces.  Melt  the  wax  and 
lard  in  the  oil  on  a water-bath  ; then  remove  the  mixture,  and  stir  constantly  while  it 
cools. — Br. 

Uses. — Simple  ointment,  as  it  was  formerly  and  more  appropriately  called,  is  used  as 
a protective  for  sores  and  excoriations  and  to  facilitate  the  introduction  of  the  hand  or 
finger,  surgical  instruments,  etc.  into  the  urethra,  vagina,  rectum,  etc. 

UNGUENTUM  ACIDI  CARBOLICI,  V.  S.,  Br.— Ointment  of  Car- 
bolic Acid. 

Pommade  pheriique , Fr.  ; Phenolsalbe,  G. 

Preparation. — Carbolic  Acid  5 Gm. ; Ointment  95  Gm. ; to  make  100  Gm.  Mix 
them  thoroughly. — U.  S. 

Each  troyounce  of  the  official  ointment  is  composed  of  24  grains  of  carbolic  acid  and 
456  grains  of  ointment,  and  is  exactly  of  one-half  the  strength  of  the  carbolic-acid  oint- 
ment of  1880. 

Carbolic  acid  60  gr. ; soft  paraffin  720  gr. ; hard  paraffin  360  gr.  Melt  and  mix. — Br. 

Uses. — Carbolic-acid  ointment  has  been  used  in  the  treatment  of  lupus  and  other  dis- 
eases of  the  skin,  but  carbolized  oil  is  preferable  as  a dressing  for  wounds.  A similar  5 
per  cent,  solution  in  oil  has  been  found  a safe  and  efficient  surgical  dressing. 

UNGUENTUM  ACIDI  TANNICI,  U.  S.— Ointment  of  Tannic  Acid. 

Pommade  de  tannin , Fr. ; Tanninsalbe , G. 

Preparation. — Tannic  Acid  20  Gm. ; Benzoinated  Lard  80  Gm. ; to  make  100  Gm. 


1660 


UNGUENTUM  ACONITINE  — UNGUENTUM  AQUjE  ROSM 


Rub  the  tannic  acid  with  the  benzoinated  lard,  gradually  added,  until  they  are  thoroughly 
mixed,  avoiding  the  use  of  an  iron  spatula. — U.  S. 

Each  troyounce  of  tannic-acid  ointment  is  composed  of  96  grains  of  tannic  acid  and 
384  grains  of  benzoinated  lard ; the  acid  should  be  rubbed  into  an  impalpable  powder, 
and  only  horn,  porcelain,  or  glass  utensils  used  in  mixing  the  ointment,  so  as  to  avoid 
darkening  of  the  color. 

Uses. — No  ointment  made  with  a vegetable  astringent  is  as  powerful  as  a solution  of 
the  same  substance  in  water,  or  even  in  glycerin.  Tannic-acid  ointment  is  no  exception 
to  the  rule.  This  preparation  may,  however,  be  applied  on  tampons  to  the  vagina,  and 
introduced  into  the  rectum,  in  relaxed  states  of  these  parts. 

UNGUENTUM  ACONITINE,  Br. — Ointment  of  Aconitine. 

Pommade  d’ aconitine,  Fr.  ; Aconitinsalbe , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Aconitine  8 grains ; Rectified  Spirit  J fluidrachm  ; Benzoated 
Lard  1 ounce.  Dissolve  the  aconitine  in  the  spirit,  add  the  lard,  and  mix  thoroughly. 
—Br. 

Uses. — This  powerful  local  anaesthetic  is  chiefly  of  use  in  neuralgia  of  the  superficial 
nerves,  especially  of  the  head,  face,  and  trunk.  It  should  be  applied,  by  means  of  a soft 
thick  brush  or  small  pledget  of  lint,  over  the  points  of  emergence  and  the  terminal  dis- 
tribution of  the  affected  nerves.  It  should  not  be  allowed  to  touch  denuded  cutaneous 
surfaces  or  mucous  membranes. 

UNGUENTUM  ANTIMONH  TARTARATI,  Ointment  of  Tar- 

TARATED  ANTIMONY. 

Pomatum  stibiatum,  F.  Cod. ; Unguentum  tartari  stibiati,  P.  G.  ; Unguentum  antimonii , 
Ung.  stibio-kali  tart  arid,  Png.  stibiatum. — Antimonial  ointment , E. ; Pommade  stibiee , P. 
d!  Autenrieth,  Fr.  ; Brechweinsteinsalbe,  Pockensalbe , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Tartarated  Antimony,  in  very  fine  powder,  \ oz. ; Simple 
Ointment  1 oz. ; mix  thoroughly. — Br. 

Tartar  emetic  1 part,  benzoinated  lard  3 parts. — F.  Cod.  Tartar  emetic  1 part,  paraffin 
ointment  4 parts. — P.  G. 

Uses. — Antimonial  ointment  is  occasionally  employed  to  produce  its  characteristic 
pustular  eruption  in  cases  requiring  vigorous  counter-irritation,  but  the  painful  ulcers  and 
the  sloughs  it  sometimes  occasioned,  and  the  permanent  scars  it  often  left  behind,  have 
caused  it  to  be  generally  abandoned,  and  there  is  no  reason  for  a revival  of  its  use. 

UNGUENTUM  AQU^E  ROSiE,  U.  S.— Ointment  of  Rose-water. 

Unguentum  leniens , P.  G. — Unguentum  emolliens , P.  A. — Cold  cream , E.,  Fr.,  G. 
Preparation. — Spermaceti,  125  Gm. ; White  Wax,  120  Gm. ; Expressed  Oil  of 
Almond,  600  Cc. : Stronger  Rose-water,  190  Cc. ; Sodium  Borate,  in  fine  powder,  5 Gm. 
Reduce  the  spermaceti  and  white  wax  to  fine  shavings,  and  melt  them  at  a moderate 
heat.  Then  add  the  expressed  oil  of  almond,  pour  the  mixture  into  a warmed,  shallow 
wedgewood  mortar,  carefully  add,  without  stirring,  the  whole  of  the  stronger  rose-water, 
in  which  the  sodium  borate  had  previously  been  dissolved,  and  then  stir  rapidly  and  con- 
tinuously until  the  mixture  becomes  uniformly  soft  and  creamy. — U.  S. 

Each  troyounce  of  rose-water  ointment  contains  62.5  grains  of  spermaceti,  60  grains 
of  white  wax,  275  grains  of  oil  of  almond  (expressed),  2.5  grains  of  borax,  and  1J 
fluidrachms  of  stronger  rose-water. 

The  present  official  formula  differs  from  that  of  1880  in  ordering  increased  proportions 
of  spermaceti,  white  wax,  and  expressed  oil  of  almond,  while  the  amount  of  water  is 
reduced  to  about  two-thirds : this  change  will  yield  a more  permanent  ointment,  and  we 
can  see  no  advantage  in  the  addition  of  borax,  which  may  cause  trouble  when  cold  cream 
is  ordered  in  ointments  with  calomel,  mercuric  oxide,  cocaine  salts,  etc.  By  warming  the 
rose-water  before  adding  it  to  the  fats  the  danger  of  a granular  ointment  by  partial  pre- 
cipitation of  the  spermaceti  is  obviated. 

Other  pharmacopoeias  direct:  Almond  oil  215,  spermaceti  60,  white  wax  30,  rose- 
water 60,  tincture  of  benzoin  15  Gm.,  oil  of  rose  10  drops. — F.  Cod.  Almond  oil  32,  sper- 
maceti 5,  white  wax  4,  rose-water  16  parts,  oil  of  rose  1 drop  to  50  Gm. — P.  G. 

The  successful  preparation  of  this  ointment  depends  mainly  on  the  pains  taken  in 
incorporating  the  materials  while  cooling  : to  facilitate  the  process,  E.  C.  Marshall  (1875) 


UNGUENTUM  A TROPIN JE. — UNG  UENTUM  C A N TH  A RID  IS. 


1661 


recommended  the  use  of  an  ordinary  egg-beater.  The  ointment  should  be  very  white, 
soft,  and  perfectly  homogeneous.  If  well  made  it  will  retain  these  properties  for  some 
time,  but  gradually  it  becomes  rancid. 

Allied  Ointments. — Ceratum  Galeni,  Cerat  de  Galien,  F.  Cod.  White  wax  1 part,  expressed 

011  of  almonds  4 parts,  distilled  rose-water  3 parts.  It  is  prepared  in  the  same  manner  as  cold 
eream. 

Ceratum  flavum,  Cerat  jaune,  F.  Cod.  Yellow  wax  10  Gm.,  almond  oil  35  Gm.,  water 
25  Gm. 

Ceratum  laudanisatum,  Cerat  laudanise,  F.  Cod.  Sydenham’s  laudanum  10  Gm.,  Galen’s 
cerate  90  Gm. 

Uses. — Cold  cream,  as  it  is  commonly  called,  is  an  agreeable  and  efficient  protective  in 
cases  of  abrasions , ulcers,  frostbite,  and  other  superficial  lesions  of  the  skin.  The  addition 
to  it  of  a small  proportion  of  glycerin,  and  also  of  benzoic  acid,  tends  both  to  preserve  the 
ointment  longer  and  to  render  it  more  efficient.  As  thus  modified  it  is  one  of  the  best 
means  of  protecting  the  hands  and  lips  from  being  chapped. 

UNGUENTUM  ATROPINA,  2*r.— Ointment  of  Atropine. 

Pommade  d' atropine,  Fr. ; Atropinsalbe,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Atropine  8 grains  ; Rectified  Spirit  £ fluidrachm  ; Benzoated 
Lard  1 ounce.  Dissolve  the  atropine  in  the  spirit,  add  the  lard,  and  mix  thoroughly. — 
Br. 

Uses. — This  preparation  is,  in  most  cases,  preferable  to  belladonna  ointment,  on 
account  of  its  superior  cleanliness  and  the  smaller  quantity  of  it  that  is  efficacious.  It  is 
chiefly  used  in  superficial  neuralgias,  to  relieve  other  local  pains,  and,  applied  to  the  peri- 
neum, to  allay  urethral  and  rectal  irritation  and  spasm. 

UNGUENTUM  BELLADONNA,  U.  S.,  Br. — Belladonna  Ointment. 

Pomatum  cum  extracto  belladonnas. , F.  Cod. ; Pommade  belladonee , Fr. ; TolTkirschen- 
salbe,  G. 

Preparation. — Alcoholic  Extract  of  Belladonna-leaves  10  Gm. ; Diluted  Alcohol  5 
Cc. ; Benzoinated  Lard  85  Gm. ; to  make  100  Gm.  Rub  the  extract  with  the  diluted 
alcohol  until  uniformly  soft,  then  gradually  add  the  lard,  and  mix  thoroughly. — U S . 

Each  troyounce  of  the  U.  S.  P.  belladonna  ointment  contains  48  grains  of  extract  of 
belladonna-leaves,  25  minims  of  diluted  alcohol,  and  408  grains  of  benzoinated  lard. 

Other  pharmacopoeias  direct — Alcoholic  extract  of  belladonna  50  grains,  benzoated  lard 
1 oz.  av. — Br.  Extract  of  belladonna  4 Gm.,  water  2 Gm.,  lard  24  Gm. — F.  Cod. 

Allied  Ointment. — Pomatum  populeum,  Pommade  de  bourgeon  de  peuplier,  Onguent  populeuin, 
F.  Cod.  Digest  the  fresh  leaves  of  belladonna,  hyoscyamus,  black  nightshade,  and  poppy,  of 
each  5 parts,  in  lard  40  parts ; when  the  moisture  has  completely  evaporated,  add  poplar-buds  8 
parts  ; digest  for  a day,  express,  and  strain. 

Uses. — Belladonna  ointment  was  originally  used  in  all  the  cases  of  local  pain,  spasm, 
etc.  to  which  atropine  ointment  is  now  applied,  and  where  cleanliness  is  not  imperative  it 
answers  nearly  as  well.  It  is  better  suited  than  the  ointment  of  the  alkaloid  for  applica- 
tion to  absorbing  surfaces,  as  the  urethra,  vagina,  rectum,  and  ulcerated  parts.  Asso- 
ciated with  astringent  ointments  (Ung.  gallse),  it  is  a valuable  palliative  in  prolapsus  ani, 
especially  if  applied  within  the  sphincter  by  means  of  a small  female  syringe  from 
which  the  fenestrated  end  has  been  removed. 

UNGUENTUM  CANTHARIDIS,  7*/\— Ointment  of  Oantharides. 

Unguentum  cantharidum,  P.  G.  ; Pomatum  cum  cantharide,  F Cod. ; Ung.  irritans , Ung. 
ad  fonticulos. — Pommade  epispastique,  Fr.  ; SpanischJUegensalbe , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Cantharides,  Yellow  Wax,  of  each  1 ounce  ; Olive  Oil  6 
fluidounces.  Infuse  the  cantharides  in  the  oil  in  a covered  vessel  for  twelve  hours  ; then 
place  the  vessel  in  boiling  water  for  fifteen  minutes,  strain  through  muslin  with  strong 
pressure,  add  the  product  to  the  wax,  previously  melted,  and  stir  constantly  while  the 
mixture  cools. — Br. 

Coarsely-powdered  cantharides  3 parts,  olive  oil  10  parts  ; digest,  express,  filter,  and  to 

12  parts  of  the  filtrate  add  8 parts  of  yellow  wax. — P.G. 

The  ointment  was  dismissed  from  the  U.  S.  P.  1880.  Cantharidin  being  readily  solu- 
ble in  fats,  the  ointment  prepared  by  digesting  cantharides  in  olive  oil  has  the  active 


1662 


UNGUENTUM  CETA CEI.—  UNG  UENTUM  CREOSOTL 


principle  more  uniformly  diffused  than  by  incorporating  powdered  cantharides  with  oint- 
ment. Cerate  of  extract  of  cantharides  is  well  adapted  for  preparing  this  ointment 
extemporaneously ; it  has  a greenish-yellow  color. 

Allied  Ointment. — Unguentum  acre.  Melt  together  yellow  wax  15  parts,  resin  30  parts, 
turpentine  60  parts,  and  lard  250  parts ; add  powdered  cantharides  50  parts,  and  powdered 
euphorbium  10  parts  ; mix,  and  stir  until  cool — P.  G.  1872. 

The  French  Codex  recognizes  a yellow  and  a green  cantharides  ointment,  of  which  the  former 
is  prepared  by  infusing  cantharides  1 part  in  melted  lard  14  parts,  adding  a little  turmeric,  filter- 
ing, melting  together  with  yellow  wax  2 parts,  and  adding  a little  oil  of  lemon.  The  green  oint- 
ment is  a mixture  of  powdered  cantharides  1 part,  poplar  ointment  (see  Ung.  Belladonna)  28 
parts,  and  wax  4 parts. 

Uses. — Ointment  of  cantharides  is  intended  to  be  used  as  a dressing  for  recently 
blistered  surfaces,  in  order  to  prolong  the  discharge  from  them,  and  also  to  act  as  a rube- 
facient upon  the  sound  skin  when  blistering  is  not  desirable.  In  this  manner  it  may 
sometimes  be  applied  in  muscular  rheumatism , in  partial  paralysis , and  in  alopecia.  But 
in  all  these  cases  various  stimulant  liniments  are  more  suitable.  In  many  cases  also  for 
which  this  ointment  is  appropriate  the  plaster  of  Burgundy  pitch  with  cantharides  is 
much  more  efficient. 

UNGUENTUM  CETACEI,  Br. — Ointment  of  Spermaceti. 

Onguent  de  hlanc  de  haleine , Fr. ; Walratsalbe,  G. 

Preparation. — Melt  together  Spermaceti  5 oz.,  White  Wax  2 oz.,  and  Almond  Oil  1 
pint  (Imper.)  : add  benzoin  in  coarse  powder  ^ oz.,  and,  frequently  stirring  the  mixture, 
continue  the  application  of  heat  for  two  hours  ; strain  the  mixture  and  stir  constantly  until 
quite  cold. — Br. 

Except  in  consistency  it  resembles  spermaceti  cerate  (p.  434). 

Uses. — This  ointment,  when  freshly  made,  is  an  appropriate  dressing  for  wounds , 
excoriations , and  blisters. 

UNGUENTUM  CHR Y S AROBINI,  U.  S.,  Br.— Chrysarobin  Ointment. 

Pommade  de  chrysarobine , Fr.  ; Chrysarobinsalbe,  G. 

Preparation. — Chrysarobin  5 Gm.  ; Benzoinated  Lard  95  Gm. ; to  make  100  Gm. 
Mix  thoroughly  by  trituration. — U.  S. 

Each  troyounce  of  the  present  U.  S.  P.  chrysarobin  ointment  contains  24  grains  of 
chrysarobin  and  456  grains  of  benzoinated  lard,  being  of  one-half  the  strength  of  that 
of  1880. 

Melt  benzoated  lard  480  grains,  add  chrysarobin  20  grains,  and  stir  them  together, 
maintaining  a moderate  temperature,  so  as  to  promote  solution  ; then  stir  until  cold. — Br. 

This  ointment  has  been  admitted  as  a more  uniform  preparation  than  the  ararobo  oint- 
ment originally  proposed  by  Da  Silva  Lima.  Balmano  Squire  (1877)  recommended  the 
solution  of  chrysarobin  in  lard  to  be  effected  by  heating  in  a water-bath  with  benzene, 
and  the  latter  to  be  evaporated  by  stirring  the  liquid  in  a warm  dish  while  cooling  and 
congealing.  The  ointment  is  of  a yellow  color,  and  should  be  entirely  free  from  gritti- 
ness, which  condition  is  difficult  to  obtain,  owing  to  the  variable  quality  of  commercial 
chrysarobin. 

Uses. — The  various  applications  of  this  ointment  are  described  under  Chrysarobin. 

UNGUENTUM  CREOSOTI,  Br. — Ointment  of  Creosote. 

Pommade  creosotee , Fr.  ; Kreosotsalbe , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Creosote  1 fluidrachm  ; Simple  Ointment  1 ounce.  Mix 
thoroughly. — Br. 

Uses. — Creosote  ointment  is  a protective,  and,  like  creosote-water,  a wholesome 
stimulant  in  numerous  cases,  including  burns , chilblains , ulcers  of  various  descriptions, 
and  especially  those  which  have  flabby,  fungous  granulations,  an  ichorous  secretion,  a 
tendency  to  gangrene,  or  a connection  with  carious  bone.  Even  for  cancerous  ulcers  it 
forms  an  eligible  dressing,  especially  after  they  have  been  washed  with  creosote-water. 
Indeed,  the  applications  of  the  latter,  enumerated  elsewhere,  are,  mutatis  mutandis , those 
of  creosote  ointment. 


UNGUENTUM  DIACHYLON.— UNGUENTUM  GALLJE  CUM  OPIO.  1663 


CJNGUENTUM  DIACHYLON,  77.  S.9  P.  G.— Diachylon  Ointment. 

Unguentum  plurnbi  Hehrse. — Hebra’s  lead  ointment , E.  ; Onguent  diachylon , Fr. ; Diach- 
ylonsalbe , G. 

Preparation. — Lead  Plaster  500  Gm. ; Olive  Oil  490  Gm. ; Oil  of  Lavender-flowers 
10  Cc. ; to  make  1000  Gm.  Melt  together  the  lead  plaster  and  olive  oil  at  a moderate 
heat;  then,  having  permitted  the  mass  to  become  partly  cool,  incorporate  with  it  the  oil 
of  lavender,  and  stir  constantly  until  cold. — U.  S. 

Each  troyounce  of  diachylon  ointment  contains  240  grains  of  lead  plaster,  235  grains 
of  olive  oil,  and  5 drops  of  oil  of  lavender-flowers. 

Lead  plaster  5 parts ; free  it  from  glycerin  by  washing,  and  from  water  by  heating  on 
a water-bath  ; melt  it  at  a moderate  heat  with  olive  oil  5 parts ; stir  until  cold,  and  after 
several  hours  stir  again. — P.  G. 

The  decrease  of  the  quantity  of  lead  plaster  and  corresponding  increase  of  olive  oil 
add  very  much  to  the  quality  and  stability  of  the  ointment  and  bring  the  two  formulas 
into  close  harmony. 

Uses. — Speaking  of  the  treatment  of  eczema , Ilebra  said  of  this  ointment,  “ I have 
called  it  Ung.  diacliyli , and  prescribed  it  either  alone  or  in  combination  with  balsam  of 
Peru.  It  is  either  applied  by  means  of  the  finger  or  rubbed  in  with  balls  of  charpie  from 
one  to  three  times  a day  ; or,  if  it  be  desirable  to  increase  its  effect,  it  may  be  spread  on 
linen  or  flannel  and  applied  like  a plaster  ” ( Diseases  of  the  Skin,  Sydenham  Soc.  ed.,  ii. 
151).  This  eminent  dermatologist  recommends  the  ointment  in  fetid  siveating  of  the  feet 
{ibid.,  i.  89)  and  as  a part  of  the  treatment  of  sycosis  menti  {ibid.,  ii.  317). 

UNGUENTUM  ELEMI,  Br. — Ointment  of  Elemi. 

Unguentum  {Balsamum)  Arcsei,  F.  Cod. ; Onguent  { Baume ) d'Arcseus,  Fr. ; Elemi - 
salbe,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Elemi  \ ounce;  Simple  Ointment  1 ounce.  Melt,  strain 
through  flannel,  and  stir  constantly  until  the  ointment  solidifies. — Br. 

Elemi  and  Venice  turpentine,  each  15  parts,  suet  20  parts,  lard  10  parts;  melt,  strain, 
and  stir  until  cold. — F.  Cod. 

Uses. — Ointment  of  elemi  is  a mild  local  stimulant,  and  as  such  may  be  used  for 
dressing  slightly  indolent  ulcers  and  for  maintaining  the  suppuration  of  issues  and  setons. 
Formerly  an  ointment  known  as  Balsamum  Arcsei , and  containing  elemi  and  larch  tur- 
pentine in  equal  proportions,  was  used  for  the  same  purpose,  and,  except  in  trifling  cases, 
probably  with  more  effect. 

UNGUENTUM  GALLiE,  77.  8.,  Br.— Nutgall  Ointment. 

Pommade  de  noix  de  galle,  Fr.  ; Galldpfelsalbe,  G. 

Preparation. — Nutgall,  in  No.  80  powder,  20  Gm. ; Benzoinated  Lard  80  Gm. ; to 
make  100  Gm.  Rub  the  nutgall  with  the  benzoinated  lard,  gradually  added,  until  they 
are  thoroughly  mixed. — U.  S. 

Each  troyounce  of  nutgall  ointment  contains  96  grains  of  nutgall  and  384  grains  of 
benzoinated  lard ; the  nutgall  is  preferably  passed  through  a bolting-cloth  before  adding 
the  lard.  The  official  ointment  is  twice  as  strong  as  that  of  1880. 

Uses. — Ointment  of  nutgall,  like  that  of  tannic  acid,  its  active  constituent,  is  appro- 
priately applied  to  relaxed  tissues,  but  especially  to  those  of  the  vagina  and  rectum,  to 
prevent  or  diminish  prolapsus  of  these  parts.  In  the  latter  case,  when  piles  exist,  an  oint- 
ment composed  of  equal  parts  of  the  ointments  of  nutgall  and  stramonium  and  Goulard’s 
cerate  is  a very  efficient  remedy. 

UNGUENTUM  GALL.®  CUM  OPIO,  ^.—Ointment  of  Galls  and 

Opium. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Ointment  of  Galls  1 ounce ; Opium,  in  powder,  32  grains. 
Mix  thoroughly. — Br. 

Uses. — This  preparation  is  intended  to  fulfil  the  same  indications  as  those  of  the  com- 
pound ointment  mentioned  under  Unguentum  Gall.e,  but  it  is  far  less  efficient  as 
applied  to  the  anus,  and,  owing  to  the  large  proportion  of  opium  it  contains,  not  without 
danger  if  introduced  into  the  vagina  or  the  rectum. 


1664 


UNGUENTUM  HYDRARGYRI. 


UNGUENTUM  HYDRARGYRI,  U.  S.,  Br.,  P.  A.- Mercurial  Oint- 
ment. 

Unguentum  hydrargyri  cinereuvn , P.  G. ; Pomatum  cum  hydrargyro , F.  Cod.  ; Unguen- 
tum mercuriale  s.  neapolitanicum. — Ointment  of  mercury , Blue  ointment , E.  ; Pommade 
( Onguent ) mercurielle  d parties  eg  ales,  P.  napolitaine , Fr.  ; Graue  Quecksilbersalbe , G. 

Preparation. — Mercury  500  Gm. ; Lard  250  Gm.  ; Suet  230  Gm.  ; Oleate  of  Mercury 
20  Gm.  ; to  make  1000  Gm.  Triturate  the  oleate  of  mercury  with  the  mercury,  gradually 
added,  in  a mortar,  until  globules  of  the  metal  are  no  longer  visible.  Then  add  the  lard 
and  suet,  previously  melted  together  and  partially  cooled,  and  continue  the  trituration 
until  globules  of  mercury  are  no  longer  visible  under  a lens  magnifying  ten  diameters. 

— U.  S. 

Each  troyounce  of  mercurial  ointment  contains  240  grains  of  pure  mercury,  120  grains 
of  lard,  115  grains  of  suet,  and  5 grains  of  mercuric  oleate. 

Mercury,  prepared  lard,  each  1 pound ; prepared  suet  1 ounce ; rub  them  together 
until  metallic  globules  cease  to  be  visible. — Br. 

Mercury  and  benzoinated  lard  equal  parts.  Melt  the  lard,  pour  about  one-third  of  it 
into  an  iron  vessel,  and  keep  it  at  a temperature  so  as  to  remain  sufficiently  soft ; add  the 
mercury  very  gradually,  triturate  until  extinct,  add  the  remainder  of  the  lard,  and  con- 
tinue the  trituration  until  a perfect  mixture  is  obtained. — F.  Cod. 

The  German  Pharmacopoeia  has  a similar  process,  but  uses  lard  and  mutton-suet  in  the 
proportion  of  13 : 7,  and  incorporates  with  this  mixture  10  parts  of  mercury.  This  oint- 
ment contains  one-third  its  weight  of  mercury,  globules  of  which  should  not  be  visible 
to  the  naked  eye. 

With  the  exception  of  the  French  Codex,  the  pharmacopoeias  have  very  properly  dis- 
carded weak  mercurial  ointment , leaving  the  physician  to  order  the  dilution  of  the  strong 
ointment  as  he  may  think  necessary. 

The  extinguishment  of  the  mercury,  if  the  directions  of  the  last  three  formulas  are 
literally  followed,  requires  such  a long  time  that  few  pharmacists  will  undertake  the 
trouble  of  preparing  the  ointment.  The  operation  is  greatly  facilitated  by  the  use  of 
mercuric  oleate,  which  is  decidedly  preferable  to  tincture  of  benzoin,  sulphur  and  oil, 
and  other  agents  formerly  employed. 

A clean  iron  mortar  is  well  adapted  for  the  preparation  of  this  ointment  on  a limited 
scale,  though  a small  portion  of  the  mercury  will  superficially  combine  with  the  iron.  A 
wedgewood  or  marble  mortar  does  not  occasion  even  this  slight  loss. 

The  extinguishment  of  the  mercury  is  most  readily  observed  by  the  use  of  a lens  of 
moderate  power,  or  by  rubbing  a small  portion  of  the  ointment  between  folded  paper, 
when  no  metallic  globules  should  become  visible  to  the  naked  eye.  Rhigini  observed 
that  on  triturating  a little  of  the  ointment  in  a marble  mortar  with  a wooden  pestle  until 
the  ointment  has  been  absorbed,  the  pestle  will  have  a bright  metallic  surface  in  case  the 
mercury  had  not  been  completely  extinguished. 

On  keeping  mercurial  ointment  at  a temperature  at  which  it  becomes  soft  without  lique- 
fying, it  will  slowly  alter  in  composition  in  such  a manner  that  the  lower  strata  contain  a 
larger  proportion  of  mercury  than  the  upper  ones.  Hence  it  is  necessary  in  warm 
weather  to  employ  fat  or  a mixture  of  fats  having  a higher  fusing-point  than  lard,  such 
as  is  directed  by  the  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia. 

When  made  with  fresh  and  sweet  fats  the  ointment  contains  the  mercury  in  a minutely 
divided  condition.  As  rancidity  commences  and  increases,  a portion  of  the  mercury  will 
be  found  in  chemical  combination,  and  this  amount  is  increased  at  an  elevated  tempera- 
ture. It  follows  from  this  that  mercurial  ointment  should  be  kept  in  a cool  place  and  in 
a well-closed  jar,  and  that  it  may  be  still  further  protected  by  covering  the  surface  of 
the  ointment  with,  paper  which  has  been  saturated  with  tincture  of  Tolu  or  tincture  of 
storax. 

Uses. — By  means  of  this  ointment,  duly  rubbed  upon  the  skin,  the  constitutional 
effects  of  mercury  can  be  secured  without  as  much  risk  of  disordering  the  digestion  of 
the  patient  as  when  mercury  in  any  of  its  forms  is  given  by  the  mouth.  It  is  eliminated 
by  the  kidneys  and  the  intestine,  but  chiefly  by  the  latter,  and  for  months  after  the 
inunction  has  ceased.  This  was  at  one  time  the  chief  method  of  treating  constitutional 
and  even  primary  syphilis , and,  in  spite  of  its  being  “ dirty,  laborious,  and  troublesome,” 
it  is  better  than  any  other  form  of  mercurial  treatment  (with  the  exception,  perhaps,  of 
the  hypodermic),  since  “ it  cures  the  disease  better,  and  does  not  damage  the  constitu- 


UNGUENTUM  HYDRARGYRI  AMMO  NATL 


16G5 


tion  half  so  much”  (Brodie).  The  inunctions  should  be  made  upon  different  parts  of  the 
body  successively,  as  the  thighs,  the  flanks,  the  arms,  the  chest,  and  usually  before  a fire 
or  in  the  direct  sunlight.  Gm.  4—8  (3J-ij)  should  be  rubbed  in  daily  ; the  patient 
should  be  clothed  in  flannel,  sleep  between  blankets,  and  every  two  or  three  days  cleanse 
the  skin  with  a bath  of  warm  water  and  soap.  If  he  is  able  he  should  make  the  friction 
with  his  own  hands ; and  if  he  cannot  do  this,  the  hands  of  the  attendant  making  them 
should  be  protected  by  a caoutchouc  glove  or  by  a pig’s  bladder  previously  softened  with 
warm  water.  In  other  cases,  and  especially  when  mercurial  ointment  is  employed  to 
supplement  the  internal  use  of  mercurials,  it  may  be  spread  upon  a cloth  and  applied 
to  a recently  blistered  surface.  In  cases  of  infantile*  syphilis  a flannel  roller  smeared 
with  the  ointment  may  be  secured  around  the  body  of  the  patient.  (For  further 
details  regarding  mercurial  inunction  in  syphilis,  typhoid  fever,  pneumonia,  etc.,  see 
Hydrargyrum.) 

All  chronic  superficial  swellings  resulting  from  inflammation  have  their  absorption 
hastened  by  friction  made  with  mercurial  ointment.  This  treatment  is  peculiarly  appro- 
priate in  glandular  and  other  enlargements  arising  from  syphilic  infection,  but  it  is  some- 
times also  used  to  promote  the  resolution  of  chronic  engorgement  of  the  liver  or  spleen. 
Paronychia  may  be  prevented  from  suppurating  by  frictions  with  mercurial  ointment 
made  every  hour  for  five  minutes  at  a time,  while  in  the  intervals  the  part  is  kept  envel- 
oped in  a poultice.  In  subacute  and  chronic  inflammation  of  the  joints  much  benefit  has 
been  derived  from  wrapping  them,  previously  blistered  or  not,  in  cloths  spread  with  mer- 
curial ointment,  and  keeping  them  at  rest  by  means  of  appropriate  splints.  A like  advan- 
tage sometimes  accrues  in  chronic  or  subacute  orchitis  from  covering  the  affected  organ 
in  a similar  manner.  But  the  simple  ointment  is  less  efficacious  than  that  of  the  iodide 
of  mercury.  There  can  be  no  doubt  that  mercury,  applied  in  one  form  or  another  to 
an  eruption  of  small-pox  upon  the  face  during  its  papular  stage,  sometimes  prevents 
the  papules  from  maturing  and  leaving  scars.  The  ointment  may  be  spread,  alone 
or  rendered  more  tenacious  by  the  admixture  of  starch,  upon  linen,  with  suitable  aper- 
tures for  the  nostrils  and  mouth,  and  closely  applied  to  the  face  like  a mask.  It  has 
been  used  after  the  same  manner  in  the  treatment  of  erysipelas  of  the  face,  but,  on  the 
whole,  without  advantage,  and  frequently  with  the  effect  of  causing  salivation.  It  is 
also  a palliative  of  prurigo  pudendi , but  in  this  case  it  is  open  to  the  same  objection. 
Unna  recommends  for  common  warts  and  condylomata  acuminata,  the  continuous  applica- 
tion of  mercurial  ointment  containing  5 per  cent,  of  arsenic.  This  dressing  is  said  not  to 
irritate  the  part,  but  to  cause  the  warts  to  wither  ( Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  Oct. 
1882,  p.  321). 

UNGUENTUM  HYDRARGYRI  AMMONATI,  77.  S.,  Br.— Ointment 
of  Ammoniated  Mercury. 

Unguentum  hydrargyri  album , P.  G.- — Ointment  of  white  precipitate , E. ; Pommade  de 
mercure  precipite  blanc , Fr. ; Wei  use  Quecksilbersalbe,  G. 

Preparation. — Ammoniated  Mercury,  in  very  fine  powder,  10  Gm. ; Benzoinated 
Lard  90  Gm. ; to  make  100  Gm.  Rub  the  ammoniated  mercury  with  the  benzoinated 
lard,  gradually  added,  until  they  are  thoroughly  mixed. — U.  S. 

Each  troyounce  of  the  ointment  contains  48  grains  of  ammoniated  mercury  and  432 
grains  of  the  base. 

Ammoniated  mercury  50  grains  ; simple  ointment  450  grains. — Br.  Ammoniated  mer- 
cury 1 part ; paraffin  ointment  9 parts. — P.  G. 

Uses. — Ointment  of  ammoniated  mercury  is  used  as  a stimulant  in  cases  of  chronic 
blepharitis  and  in  several  cutaneous  affections,  especially  in  psoriasis  of  limited  extent, 
and  in  those  of  parasitic  origin,  including  ringworm  of  the  scalp  (porrigo  scutulata).  In 
herpes  circinatus , sycosis , and  pityriasis  it  is  also  employed.  In  herpes  zoster  it  has  been 
reported,  on  insufficient  grounds,  to  be  useful.  It  is  more  efficacious  in  chronic  forms  of 
circumscribed  eczema  and  of  tubercular  and  squamous  syphilis.  Like  other  mercurial 
ointments,  it  is  a destroyer  of  lice.  The  following  may  be  used  instead:  R.  Hydrarg. 
ammoniat.,  gr.  xxxv ; balsam  Peruviani,  gj  ; ol.  petrolei,  giiss ; lanolini  ad  ^viij. — M. 
(Whitlaw).  Ointment  of  ammoniated  mercury  has  over  the  others  the  advantage  of 
cleanliness,  and  it  may  be  perfumed  with  some  agreeable  essential  oil,  such  as  lavender 
or  bergamot. 


105 


1666  UNGUENTUM  HYDRARGYRI  COMPOSITUM.-HYDRARGYRI  NITRATIS. 


UNGUENTUM  HYDRARGYRI  COMPOSITUM,  Br.— Compound 

Ointment  of  Mercury. 

Pommade  mercurielle  composee , Fr.  ; Kampfer-  Quecksilbersalbe,  G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Ointment  of  Mercury  6 ounces;  Yellow  Wax,  Olive  Oil, 
each  3 ounces ; Camphor  1 J ounces.  Melt  the  wax  with  a gentle  heat,  and  add  the  oil ; 
then,  when  the  mixture  is  nearly  cold,  add  the  camphor  in  powder  and  the  ointment  of 
mercury,  and  mix  the  whole  thoroughly  together. — Br. 

The  ointment  has  a greenish  tint,  and  is  softened  by  the  camphor. 

Uses. — It  is  impossible  to  discover  any  sufficient  reason  for  the  existence  of  this 
preparation,  which  probably  has  the  virtues,  and  no  others,  of  simple  mercurial  ointment; 

UNGUENTUM  HYDRARGYRI  IODIDI  RUBRI,  Br.— Ointment  of 

Red  Iodide  of  Mercury. 

Pommade  dliodure  mercurique , Fr.  ; Jodquecksilbersalbe , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Red  Iodide  of  Mercury,  in  fine  powder,  16  grains ; Simple 
Ointment  1 ounce.  Mix  thoroughly. — Br. 

Uses. — This  ointment  is  chiefly  used  as  a stimulant  of  indolent  scrofulous  and  syphi- 
litic ulcers  and  scrofulous  glandular  swellings.  In  India  goitre  has  been  cured  in  many 
thousands  of  cases  by  rubbing  into  the  tumor  an  ointment  made  with  60  grains  of  red 
iodide  of  mercury  to  a pound  of  lard,  and  then  exposing  the  patient  for  several  hours  to 
the  direct  action  of  the  sun.  The  operation  is  repeated  twice  a day  for  several  days,  the 
applied  ointment  being  allowed  to  remain  (Macnamara,  Dublin  Quart.  Jour.,  Nov.  1857, 
p.  500).  A very  similar  method  has  been  employed  with  remarkable  success  in  the  treat- 
ment of  enlargement  of  the  liver  and  spleen ,•  the  heat  of  a fire  being  substituted  for  that 
of  the  sun. 

UNGUENTUM  HYDRARGYRI  NITRATIS,  U.  S.,  Br.- Ointment  of 

Nitrate  of  Mercury. 

Pomatum  citrinum , F.  Cod. ; Unguentum  hydra, rgyri  citrinum , Unguentum  citrinum. — 
Citrine  ointment , E.  ; Pommade  citrine , Onguent  citrin , Fr. ; Quecksilbernitratsalbe , G. 

Preparation. — Mercury  70  Gm. ; Nitric  Acid  175  Gm. ; Lard  Oil  760  Gm.  Heat 
the  lard  oil  in  a glass  or  porcelain  vessel  to  a temperature  of  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  ; then 
withdraw  the  heat,  gradually  add  70  Gm.  of  nitric  acid,  and,  when  the  reaction  moder- 
ates, reapply  the  heat  until  effervescence  ceases.  Then  allow  the  mixture  to  cool  to 
about  40°  C.  (104°  F.).  Having  dissolved  the  mercury  in  the  remainder  of  the  nitric 
acid  with  the  aid  of  sufficient  heat  to  prevent  the  solution  from  crystallizing,  add  this 
solution  to  the  mixture.  When  the  mass  has  become  entirely  cold,  mix  it  thoroughly  by 
trituration,  avoiding  the  use  of  an  iron  spatula. — U.  S. 

To  make  4 av.  ozs.  of  citrine  ointment  use  123  grains  of  mercury,  306  grains  of  nitric 
acid,  and  1330  grains  of  lard  oil  : 123  grains  of  the  acid  are  used  for  treatment  of  the 
lard  oil,  and  the  remainder  for  the  solution  of  the  mercury.  It  is  important  that  the 
nitric  acid  should  be  of  official  strength,  and  that  the  oxidation  of  the  fat  be  completed 
before  the  addition  of  the  mercurial  solution,  so  as  to  avoid  reduction  of  the  mercurial  salt, 
and  consequent  discoloration.  When  carefully  made  the  ointment  is  of  a bright  lemon- 
yellow  color  and  keeps  well,  gradually,  however,  darkening  somewhat  in  color. 

Take  of  mercury,  by  weight,  4 ounces;  nitric  acid  12  fluidounces;  prepared  lard  15 
ounces ; olive  oil  32  fluidounces.  Dissolve  the  mercury  in  the  nitric  acid  with  the  aid 
of  a gentle  heat ; melt  the  lard  in  the  oil,  by  a steam-  or  water-bath,  in  a porcelain  ves- 
sel capable  of  holding  six  times  the  quantity,  and,  while  the  mixture  is  at  about  100°  C., 
add  the  solution  of  mercury,  also  at  about  the  same  temperature,  mixing  them  thor- 
oughly. If  the  mixture  do  not  froth  up,  increase  the  heat  till  it  occurs.  Keep  it  stirred 
until  it  is  cold. — Br. 

On  mixing  melted  fats  with  a solution  of  mercuric  nitrate  containing  free  nitric 
acid,  a very  complicated  reaction  takes  place,  resulting,  on  the  one  hand,  in  the  oxida- 
tion of  the  fat  and  the  evolution  of  nitric  oxide  (nitrogen  dioxide)  and  nitrogen 
tetroxide,  and,  on  the  other  hand,  in  the  conversion  by  the  latter  of  the  olein  contained 
in  the  fat  into  solid  elaidin.  The  products  of  oxidation  of  the  fat  contain  various  vola- 
tile fatty  acids,  but  must  necessarily  vary  with  the  nature  of  the  fat,  the  amount  of 
free  nitric  acid,  and  the  degree  of  the  heat.  Should  the  nitric  acid  be  insufficient  in 


UNGUENTUM  HYDRARGYRI  OXIDI  FLA  VI. — HYDRARG.  OXIDI  RUBRI  1667 


quantity  or  the  temperature  rise  to  too  high  a degree,  the  oxidation  is  effected  in  part 
at  the  expense  of  the  mercuric  nitrate,  which  is  thereby  reduced  to  mercurous  salt. 
The  B.  P.  formula  orders  a much  larger  quantity  of  nitric  acid  than  is  necessary,  and 
indicates  about  100°  C.  as  the  temperature  at  which  the  fat  should  be  mixed  with  the 
mercuric  solution.  According  to  the  temperature  at  which  the  nitric  acid  acts  upon 
the  mercury,  the  solution  will  contain  mercurous  or  mercuric  nitrate,  or  both  salts,  with 
or  without  hyponitric  acid.  If  free  from  mercurous  nitrate,  the  solution  will  yield 
with  lard  at  200°  F.  a citrine  ointment  having,  at  least  at  first,  a bright-yellow  color. 
In  our  experience  an  equally  good  and  permanent  ointment  is  obtained  by  heating 
both  the  mercuric  solution  and  the  fat  to  about  70°  C.  (158°  F.)  before  mixing  them; 
and  even  a lower  degree  of  heat,  about  50°  C.  (122°  F.),  will  produce  good  results 
if  the  reaction  is  completed  before  the  ointment  is  permitted  to  cool.  All  difficul- 
ties are,  however,  overcome  by  following  the  process  adopted  by  the  U.  S.  P.  Unsalted 
butter  and  many  other  fats,  the  drying  oils  excepted,  similarly  treated,  will  yield  an 
equally  handsome  ointment.  The  French  Codex  directs  1 part  of  mercury  and  2 parts 
of  nitric  acid  to  20  parts  of  fat  composed  of  equal  weights  of  lard  and  olive  oil ; this 
salve  is  firm,  and  is  sold  in  the  form  of  square  cakes. 

Citrine  ointment  should  be  prepared  in  glass  or  porcelain  vessels,  and  should  not  be 
brought  into  contact  with  iron  or  other  metal. 

Allied  Ointment. — Uxguentum  nitricum,  Ung.  oxygenatum,  P.  G.  1872.  Melt  50  parts  of 
lard,  add  3 parts  of  nitric  acid  spec.'grav.  1.185,  and  heat  slowly  and  with  constant  stirring  until 
the  reaction  ceases  ; then  pour  into  paper  moulds  (see  page  432).  It  is  of  a light-yellow  color. 

Unguentum  hydrargyri  nitratis  dilutum,  Br.  Mix  nitrate-of-mercury  ointment  1 ounce 
with  soft  paraffin  2 ounces. 

Uses. — Ointment  of  mercuric  nitrate  is  employed  in  nearly  all  of  the  cases  mentioned 
under  the  head  of  ointment  of  ammoniated  mercury,  but  especially  in  chronic  diseases  of 
the  shin , and  in  the  affections  enumerated  under  ointment  of  red  oxide  of  mercury.  It 
is  more  stimulating  than  the  former  preparation,  and  generally  needs  dilution  with  lard. 
It  is  very  apt  to  occasion  salivation. 

UNGUENTUM  HYDRARGYRI  OXIDI  FLA VI,  U.  Ointment  of 

Yellow  Mercuric  Oxide. 

Pommade  d' oxyde  jaune  de  mercure , Fr. ; Gelbe  Quecksilberoxydsalbe , G. 

Preparation. — Yellow  mercuric  oxide,  in  very  fine  powder,  10  6m.;  Ointment  90 
Gm. ; to  make  100  Gm.  Rub  the  oxide  of  mercury  with  the  ointment,  gradually  added, 
until  they  are  thoroughly  mixed. — U S. 

Each  troyounce  of  the  ointment  contains  48  grains  of  yellow  mercuric  oxide  and  432 
grains  of  simple  ointment. 

Yellow  oxide  of  mercury  1 part,  petrolatum  15  parts. — F.  Cod. 

The  yellow  wax  contained  in  the  simple  ointment  will  protect  this  preparation  from 
rancidity,  but  it  is  best  to  keep  the  ointment  on  hand  for  a short  time  only  or  to  prepare 
it  when  needed. 

Uses. — This  preparation  was  introduced  as  a substitute  for  ointment  of  the  red  oxide 
of  mercury,  with  which  it  is  identical  in  its  medicinal  qualities ; but  owing  to  the 
amorphous  condition  and  the  greater  fineness  of  subdivision  of  the  particles  of  the  oxide 
from  which  it  is  made,  it  appears  to  be  more  suitable  for  application  to  the  eye  and  other 
delicate  tissues. 

UNGUENTUM  HYDRARGYRI  OXIDI  RUBRI,  ZJ.  S.,  Br.— Ointment 

of  Red  Mercuric  Oxide. 

Unguentum  hydrargyri  rubrum , P.  G. ; Pomatum  cum  oxydo-hydrargyrico , F.  Cod. ; Ung. 
precipitatum  rubrum. — Pommade  d' oxyde  rouge  de  mercure , Pommade  de  Lyon , Baume 
ophthalmique  rouge , Fr. ; Rothe  Quecksilbersalbe , G. 

Preparation. — Red  Mercuric  Oxide,  in  very  fine  powder,  10  Gm.  ; Castor  Oil  5 Gm. ; 
Ointment  85  Gm. ; to  make  100  Gm.  Triturate  the  red  mercuric  oxide  with  the  castor 
oil  until  a perfectly  smooth  mixture  results ; then  gradually  incorporate  the  ointment  and 
mix  thoroughly. — U.  S. 

Each  troyounce  of  the  ointment  contains  48  grains  of  red  mercuric  oxide,  24  grains 
of  castor  oil,  and  408  grains  of  simple  ointment. 

Take  of  red  oxide  of  mercury,  in  very  fine  powder,  62  grains ; hard  paraffin  \ ounce ; 


1668  UNGUENT UM  HYDRARGYRI  SUBCHLORIDI.— UNGUENTUM  IODI. 


soft  paraffin  | ounce,  Melt  the  hard  and  soft  paraffins  together,  and  when  the  mixture 
in  cooling  begins  to  thicken  add  the  oxide  of  mercury  in  a glass  or  porcelain  mortar,  and 
mix  the  whole  thoroughly. — Br. 

Red  oxide  of  mercury  1 part,  petrolatum  15  parts,  F.  Cod.  (paraffin  ointment  9 parts, 
P.  G.). 

The  reduction  of  red  mercuric  oxide  to  a very  fine  powder  is  materially  facilitated  by 
trituration  with  alcohol,  which  also  changes  the  color  from  bright  scarlet  to  a deep  orange. 
If  kept  on  hand  for  some  time,  the  ointment  is  apt  to  become  rancid  and  discolored : this 
can  be  entirely  prevented  by  using  a mixture  of  yellow  wax  and  castor  oil,  suggested  by 
J.  B.  Baxley,  as  follows  : Melt  together  108  grains  of  yellow  wax  and  324  grains  of  castor 
oil,  and  when  the  mixture  begins  to  cool  add  48  grains  of  finely  powdered  red  mercuric 
oxide,  and  incorporate  thoroughly. 

Allied  Ointments. — Unguentum  ophthalmicum,  P.  G.  1872.  Melt  together  30  parts  of 
expressed  oil  of  almond  and  19  parts  of  yellow  wax,  and  mix  these  intimately  with  1 part  of 
very  finely-levigated  oxide  of  mercury. 

Unguentum  ophthalmicum  compositum,  s.  Ung.  ophthalmicum  St.  Yves,  P.  G.  1872.  Melt 
together  lard  140  parts,  and  yellow  wax  24  parts  ; add  red  oxide  of  mercury  15  parts  and  pure 
oxide  of  zinc  6 parts,  and  mix  thoroughly  with  camphor  5 parts,  previously  dissolved  in 
expressed  oil  of  almond  10  parts. 

Pomatum  de  Regent  ; Pommade  de  Regent,  P.  Cod. — Red  oxide  of  mercury  1 Gm. ; lead 
acetate  1 Gm. ; camphor  0.10  Gm.  5 petrolatum  18  Gm. 

Uses. — This  ointment  when  used  as  a dressing  for  ulcers  is  very  apt  to  produce  the 
specific  effects  of  mercury  upon  the  system.  It  should  not,  therefore,  be  too  freely 
applied  nor  upon  too  large  a surface  at  once.  Its  use  is  very  much  restricted  to  the  treat- 
ment of  indolent  syphilitic  sores  and  chronic  inflammation  of  the  edges  of  the  eyelids 
( blepharitis ).  For  the  latter  purpose  the  ointment  should  be  diluted.  1 part  of  ointment 
of  red  oxide  of  mercury  to  8 or  10  of  simple  ointment  is  usually  strong  enough.  An 
ointment  made  with  red  oxide  of  mercury  1}  gr.  and  lanoline  or  vaseline  ^ss  has  been 
recommended  to  abort  furuncles  and  as  a palliative  of  acne. 

UNGUENTUM  HYDRARGYRI  SUBCHLORIDI,  Br.— Ointment  of 

Subchloride  of  Mercury. 

Unguentum  calomelanos. — Pommade  de  chlorure  mercureux , P.  de  calomel , Fr. ; Quech- 
silberchloriirsalbe , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Subchloride  of  Mercury  80  grains  ; Benzoated  Lard  1 ounce. 
Mix  thoroughly. — Br. 

Calomel  1 part,  benzoinated  lard  9 parts. — F.  Cod.  This  ointment,  being  known  in 
France  also  as  pommade  au  precipite  blanc,  should  not  be  confounded  with  the  ointment 
of  ammoniated  mercury.  (See  pp.  826  and  846.) 

Uses. — Calomel  ointment  has  the  advantage  over  all  the  ointments  made  with  salts 
of  mercury  of  being  wholly  unirritating,  and  over  simple  mercurial  ointment  of  not  dis- 
coloring the  skin  or  staining  the  clothing.  It  is  therefore  adapted  to  the  local  treatment 
of  cutaneous  eruptions  of  limited  extent,  and  especially  to  those  of  a syphilitic  nature.  It 
is  conveniently  associated  with  white  precipitate  ointment  in  the  affections  to  which  that 
ointment  is  applied. 

UNGUENTUM  IODI,  U.  S.,  Br.— Iodine  Ointment. 

Unguentum  iodinii. — Pommade  d'iode , Fr.  ; Jodsalbe , G. 

Preparation. — Iodine  4 Gm. ; Potassium  Iodide  1 Gm. ; Water  2 Cc. ; Benzoinated 
Lard  93  Gm. ; to  make  100  Gm.  Rub  the  iodine  and  potassium  iodide  first  with  the 
water,  and  then  with  the  benzoinated  lard,  gradually  added,  until  they  are  thoroughly 
mixed,  avoiding  the  use  of  an  iron  spatula. — U.  S. 

Each  troyounce  of  iodine  ointment  contains  20  grains  of  iodine,  5 grains  of  potassium 
iodide,  12  mimims  of  water,  and  445  grains  of  benzoinated  lard. 

Iodine  and  potassium  iodide  each  32  grains ; glycerin  1 fluidrachm  ; prepared  lard  2 
oz.  av. — Br. 

The  water  and  potassium  iodide  are  serviceable  for  effecting  the  fine  division  of  the 
iodine.  The  lard  should  be  added  at  first  in  very  small  quantities,  and  the  trituration 
continued  until  the  solid  ingredients  are  perfectly  levigated  and  the  mixture  is  entirely 
free  from  grittiness  and  uniform  in  color. 


TJNGTJENTUM  IODOFORM!.—  UNGUENTUM  PICIS  LIQUIDS.  1G69 


Allied  Ointment. — Unguentum  iodixii  compositum,  U.  S.  1870;  Pomatum  cum  iodureto 
potassieo  iodurato,  F.  Cod. ; Compound  iodine  ointment,  E, ; Pommade  d'iodure  de  potassium 
iodure,  Fr. ; Jodkaliumsalbe  mit  -Jod,  G. — Iodine  15  grains;  potassium  iodide  30  grains;  water 
30  minims;  lard  a troyounce. — TJ.  S.  1870.  Iodine  2,  potassium  iodide  10,  water  10,  and  ben- 
zoinated  lard  80  parts. — F.  Cod. 

Uses. — Iodine  ointment  has  been  employed  extensively  to  promote  the  absorption  of 
the  exudation  occurring  in  local  inflammations.  It  is  used  in  indolent  enlargement  of  the 
tonsils , the  thyroid , and  the  lymphatic  glands ; also  in  hydrarthrosis , cold  abscess , and 
chronic  peritonitis.  It  may  be  applied  to  the  mamma  when  abscess  threatens  to  form  in 
that  gland,  to  promote  the  absorption  of  pleural  and  pericardial  effusions,  to  prevent  the 
development  of  inflammation  in  tendinous  sheaths , and  that  of  chilblains , etc. 

Compound  iodine  ointment  (77  S.  1870),  it  will  be  observed,  contained  less  iodine  than 
the  simple  ointment.  The  advantage  of  the  potassium  iodide  in  it,  if  any,  must  have 
depended  upon  the  absorption  of  the  salt,  which  could  not  be  great  from  the  limited  sur- 
faces to  which  the  ointment  is  usually  applied.  The  compound  and  the  simple  ointments 
are  used  in  the  same  affections. 

UNGUENTUM  IODOFORMI,  77.  S.,  Iodoform  Ointment. 

Pommade  d'iodoforme , Fr.  ; Jodoformsalbe , G. 

Preparation. — Iodoform,  in  very  fine  powder,  10  Gm. ; Benzoinated  Lard,  90  Gm. ; 
to  make  100  Gm.  Rub  the  iodoform  with  the  benzoinated  lard,  gradually  added,  until 
they  are  thoroughly  mixed. — TJ.  S. 

Each  troyounce  of  the  ointment  contains  48  grains  of  iodoform  and  432  grains  of 
benzoinated  lard.  An  impalpable  powder  of  iodoform  is  readily  obtained  by  trituration 
with  alcohol. 

Dissolve  iodoform  1 ounce  in  melted  benzoated  lard  9 ounces,  and  cool. — Br. 

The  ointment  should  be  perfectly  smooth  and  free  from  grittiness ; it  has  a light-yellow 
color  and  the  peculiar  odor  of  iodoform.  (For  disguising  the  odor  consult  pp.  879,  885.) 

Allied  Preparation. — Crayons  d’iodoforme,  F.  Cod. ; Iodoform  pencils.  Triturate  iodoform 
20  parts  with  powdered  acacia  1 part,  and  by  means  of  very  little  water  and  glycerin  form  a 
mass  of  pilular  consistence  which  is  rolled  out  into  cylinders  of  suitable  size. — F.  Cod.  Butter 
of  cacao  may  be  used  with  an  equal  weight  of  iodoform  ; these  pencils  are  dusted  with  lyco- 
podium. 

Uses. — Under  Iodoform  the  numerous  applications  of  this  ointment  have  been  men- 
tioned. It  is  anaesthetic  and  stimulant. 

UNGUENTUM  PICIS  LIQUIDS,  77.  S.,  Br.— Tar  Ointment. 

Pomatum  cum  pice,  F.  Cod. — Pommade  de  goudron,  Fr.  ; Thcersalbe,  G. 

Preparation. — Tar  500  Gm. ; Yellow  Wax  125  Gm. ; Lard  375  Gm. ; to  make 
1000  Gm.  Melt  together  the  yellow  wax  and  the  lard  at  a moderate  heat.  Then  incor- 
porate the  tar,  strain  the  mixture  through  muslin,  and  stir  the  ointment  until  it  is  cool. 

— u.  s. 

Each  troyounce  of  tar  ointment  contains  240  grains  of  tar,  60  grains  of  yellow  wax, 
and  180  grains  of  lard. 

Tar  5 ounces  ; yellow  wax  2 ounces  ; melt  the  wax  with  a gentle  heat,  add  the  tar,  and 
stir  the  mixture  briskly  while  it  cools. — Br. 

Tar  1 part,  lard  9 parts ; mix. — F.  Cod. 

The  substitution  of  wax  and  lard  for  the  suet  of  the  1880  formula  will  prove  a 
desirable  change ; the  ointment  as  now  made  is  far  less  liable  to  be  granular  than  for- 
merly. 

Allied  Ointments. — Unguentum  picis  betul^e,  s.  U.  rusci,  Wolff’s  tar  ointment.  Birch  tar 
(see  p.  1255)  8 Gm.,  simple  ointment  42  Gm. 

Unguentum  picis  compositum,  N.  F.,  Compound  tar  ointment. — Melt  together,  at  a gentle 
heat,  26  parts  of  yellow  wax,  32  parts  of  lard,  and  35  parts  of  cotton-seed  oil  ; add  2 parts  of 
tincture  of  benzoin,  and  continue  heating  until  the  alcohol  has  evaporated.  Remove  the  heat, 
add  4 parts  of  oil  of  tar  and  3 parts  of  zinc  oxide,  and  incorporate  thoroughly  by  stirring  until 

cool. 

Uses. — Tar  ointment  will  sometimes  cure  scabies , but  its  action  is  uncertain  and  dila- 
tory. In  scaly  eruptions,  as  psoriasis  and  lepra , its  efficacy  is  much  more  decided,  as  well 
as  in  chronic  eczema,  after  the  liquid  secretion  has  ceased.  In  ringworm  and  in  prurigo  it 
is  one  of  the  best  applications,  and  it  may  be  used  with  advantage  in  the  greater  number 
of  indolent  and  gangrenous  ulcers. 


1670  UNGUENTUM  PLUMBI  ACETATIS.—  UNG.  POTASSE  SULPHURATE. 


UNGUENTUM  PLUMBI  ACETATIS,  Br. — Ointment  of  Lead  Acetate. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Lead  Acetate,  in  fine  powder,  12  grains;  Benzoated  Lard 
1 oz.  av.  Mix  thoroughly. — Br. 

Allied  Ointments. — Unguentum  narcotico-balsamicum  Hellmundi,  Hellmund’s  ointment. 
Triturate  together  lead  acetate  10  parts  and  extract  of  conium  30  parts ; add  gradually  simple 
ointment  240  parts,  balsam  of  Peru  30  parts,  and  wine  of  opium  (with  saffron)  5 parts,  and  mix 
thoroughly. — P.  G.  1872. 

Unguentum  plumbi  tannici  (see  page  1264). 

Uses. — The  action  and  uses  of  lead  acetate  ointment  are  probably  identical  with 
those  of  the  cerate  of  lead  subacetate.  It  is  applied  as  a dressing  to  wounds , excoria- 
tions, and  inflamed  surfaces  generally. 

UNGUENTUM  PLUMBI  CARBONATIS,  77.  S.,  Br.— Ointment  of  Lead 

Carbonate. 

Pomatum  cum  carbonate  plumbico,  F.  Cod. ; Unguentum  cerussse,  s.  Ung.  album  simplex , 

P.  G.,  P.  A. — Pommade  de  carbonate  de  plomb , Onguent  blanc  de  Rhazes)  Fr. ; Bleiweis- 
salbe,  G. 

Preparation. — Lead  Carbonate,  in  very  fine  powder,  10  Gm. ; Benzoinated  Lard  90 
Gm.  ; to  make  100  Gm.  Rub  the  lead  carbonate  with  the  benzoinated  lard,  gradually 
added,  until  they  are  thoroughly  mixed. — U.  S. 

Each  troyounce  of  this  ointment  contains  48  grains  of  lead  carbonate  and  432  grains 
of  benzoinated  lard. 

Other  pharmacopoeias  direct — Lead  carbonate  62  grains ; simple  ointment  1 oz.  av. — 
Br.  Lead  carbonate  1 part;  benzoinated  lard  5 parts. — F.  Cod.  Lead  carbonate  3 
parts  ; paraffin  ointment  7 parts. — P.  G. 

Allied  Ointment.— Unguentum  cerussse  camphoratum.  Ointment  of  lead  carbonate  95  parts, 
powdered  camphor  5 parts. — P.  G. 

Uses. — It  is  used  for  the  same  purposes  as  the  last-mentioned  ointment,  from  which 
it  perhaps  differs  in  being  less  astringent.  It  forms  a suitable  dressing  for  recent  burns 
of  the  first  degree.  The  danger  of  poisoning  by  the  absorption  of  the  lead  it  contains 
is  an  objection  to  its  prolonged  use. 

UNGUENTUM  PLUMBI  IODIDI,  77.  8.,  Br.— Ointment  of  Lead 

Iodide. 

Pomatum  cum  iodureto-plumbico , F.  Cod.  ; Pommade  d'iodure  de  plomb , Fr. ; Jodblei- 
salbe , G. 

Preparation. — Lead  Iodide,  in  very  fine  powder,  10  Gm. ; Benzoinated  Lard  90 
Gm.  ; to  make  100  Gm.  Rub  the  lead  iodide  with  the  benzoinated  lard,  gradually 
added,  until  they  are  thoroughly  mixed. — U.  S.,  F.  Cod. 

Each  troyounce  of  the  ointment  contains  48  grains  of  lead  iodide  and  432  grains  of  ■ 
benzoinated  lard. 

Lead  iodide,  in  fine  powder,  62  grains  ; simple  ointment  1 oz.  av. ; mix  thoroughly. — Br. 

Uses. — -The  discutient  influence  of  this  ointment  upon  enlarged  glands  of  the  lymphatic 
system,  and  even  upon  certain  mammary  tumors  of  uncertain  nature,  is  sometimes  very 
distinctly  marked.  In  chronic  enlargement  of  the  testicle  following  gonorrhoea  it  is  often 
of  palpable  use.  It  has  also  been  applied  to  some  local  cutaneous  eruptions , but  without 
demonstrable  advantage. 

UNGUENTUM  POTASSE  SULPHURATE,  Br.— Ointment  of  Sul- 
phurated Potash. 

Pommade  de  foie  de  soufre , Fr.  ; Schivefellebersalbe , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Sulphurated  Potash  30  grains  ; Hard  Paraffin  1 ounce  ; Soft 
Paraffin  f ounce.  Triturate  the  sulphurated  potash  in  a glass  or  porcelain  mortar,  and 
gradually  add  the  melted  mixture  of  paraffins,  rubbing  them  together  until  the  ointment 
is  perfectly  smooth  and  free  from  grittiness.  This  ointment  should  be  recently  prepared. 
—Br. 

Uses. — Sulphurated  potash  ointment  is  only  used  in  the  treatment  of  scabies , for 
which  it  is  an  efficient  remedy. 


UNGUENTUM  POTASSII  IODTDI. — UNG  UENTUM  SULPHURIC 


1671 


UNGUENTUM  POTASSII  IODIDI,  U.  S.,  Hr. — Ointment  of  Potassium 

Iodide. 

Unguentum  kalii  iodati , P.  G.  ; Pomatum  cum  iodureto  potassico , F.  Cod.  ; Pommade 
diodure  de  potassium,  Fr.  ; Jodkaliumsalbe , G. 

Preparation. — Potassium  Iodide,  in  fine  powder,  12  Gm. ; Sodium  Thiosulphate 
(Hyposulphite)  1 part;  Water,  hot,  10  Cc. ; Benzoinated  Lard,  77  Gm. ; to  make  100 
Gm.  Dissolve  the  potassium  iodide  and  the  sodium  thiosulphate  in  the  hot  water;  then 
gradually  add  the  benzoinated  lard,  and  mix  thoroughly. — IT.  S. 

Each  troyounce  of  the  ointment  contains  58  grains  of  potassium  iodide,  5 grains  of 
sodium  thiosulphate,  50  minims  of  hot  water,  and  370  grains  of  benzoinated  lard. 

Potassium  iodide  64  grains ; potassium  carbonate  4 grains ; distilled  water  1 fluid- 
drachm  ; benzoated  lard  1 oz.  av. — Br.  Potassium  iodide  10  parts,  water  10  parts,  ben- 
zoinated lard  80  parts. — F.  Cod.  Potassium  iodide  20  parts,  sodium  thiosulphate  \ 
part,  water  15  parts,  lard  165  parts. — P.  G. 

The  addition  of  sodium  thiosulphate  is  made  for  the  purpose  of  preventing  the 
liberation  of  free  iodine  and  the  gradual  change  of  the  color  of  the  ointment  from  white 
to  yellow  and  brown.  Iodine  added  to  this  ointment  will  likewise  be  decolorized,  with 
the  formation  of  sodium  iodide.  (See  Sodii  Hyposulphis.)  The  addition  of  a little 
potassium  carbonate,  as  directed  by  the  Br.  P.,  or  of  a few  drops  of  potassa  or  soda  solu- 
tion, will  likewise  preserve  the  white  color  of  the  ointment. 

Uses. — The  discutient  powers  of  this  ointment  are  certainly  inferior  to  those  of  the 
ointments  of  iodine ; its  only  advantages  consist  in  its  being  colorless  and  in  not  stain- 
ing the  linen.  It  is  used  to  promote  the  reduction  of  enlarged  glands. 

UNGUENTUM  STRAMONII,  U.  S. — Stramonium  Ointment. 

Pommade  de  stramoine,  Fr.  ; Stechapfelsalbe , G. 

Preparation. — Extract  of  Stramonium-seed  10  Gm.;  Diluted  Alcohol,  5 Cc.  ; Ben- 
zoinated Lard  85  Gm. ; to  make  100  Gm.  Rub  the  extract  with  the  diluted  alcohol 
until  uniformly  soft,  then  gradually  add  the  benzoinated  lard,  and  mix  thoroughly. — 

U.  S. 

Each  troyounce  of  the  ointment  contains  48  grains  of  extract  of  stramonium-seed,  28 
minims  of  diluted  alcohol,  and  408  grains  of  benzoinated  lard. 

Uses. — Stramonium  ointment,  although  less  efficient  than  belladonna  ointment,  may 
be  used  for  the  same  purposes — viz.  to  allay  pain  and  relieve  spasm.  It  has  been  found 
to  palliate  the  suffering  caused  by  open  cancer  of  the  breast,  and  it  affords  much  com- 
fort in  cancer  of  the  rectum , piles , fissures  and  prolapsus  of  the  anus , etc.  An  ointment 
composed  of  equal  parts  of  stramonium  ointment,  ointment  of  galls,  and  cerate  of  lead 
subacetate  is  very  useful  in  these  affections,  and  also  to  arrest  the  itching  caused  by  ver- 
micular ascarides. 

UNGUENTUM  SULPHURIS,  IT.  S.,  Br.— Sulphur  Ointment. 

Pomatum  sulfuratum , F.  Cod.,  P.  A.  ; Unguentum  sulfuratum  simplex. — Pommade  sou- 
free , Fr. ; Schwefelsalbe , G. 

Preparation. — Washed  Sulphur  300  Gm. ; Benzoinated  Lard  700  Gm.  ; to  make  100 
Gm.  Rub  the  sulphur  with  the  benzoinated  lard,  gradually  added,  until  they  are  thor- 
oughly mixed. — U.  S. 

Each  troyounce  of  the  ointment  contains  144  grains  of  washed  sulphur  and  336  grains 
of  benzoinated  lard. 

Sublimed  sulphur  1 ounce;  benzoated  lard  4 ounces. — Br.  Washed  sulphur  10  parts, 
almond  oil  10  parts,  benzoinated  lard  80  parts.—/7.  Cod. 

We  fail  to  see  any  advantage  in  the  substitution  of  washed  sulphur  for  sublimed  sul- 
phur, as  formerly  directed  : the  purposes  for  which  sulphur  ointment  is  used,  as  an  anti- 
parasitic,  would  seem  to  point  in  favor  of  sulphur  containing  some  free  acid. 

Allied  Ointments. — Unguentum  sulfuratum  compositum.  Mix  1 part  each  of  sublimed  sul- 
phur and  powdered  zinc  sulphate  with  8 parts  of  lard. — P.  G.  1872. 

Unguentum  sulphuris  alkalinum.  Alkaline  sulphur  ointment  E. ; Helmerich’s  Salbe,  G. — 
Washed  sulphur  20  parts;  potassium  carbonate  10  parts ; water  5 parts ; benzoinated  lard  65 
parts  ; to  make  100  parts.  Rub  the  sulphur  with  the  potassium  carbonate  and  the  water, 
gradually  add  the  benzoinated  lard,  and  mix  thoroughly. — U.  S.  1880.  Potassium  carbonate 


1672  UNGUENTUM  SULPHURIS  10 DID I.—  VNG UENTUM  ZTNCI  OXIDI. 


5 Gm.,  water  5 Gm.,  sulphur  10  Gin.,  expressed  almond  oil  5 Gm. ; lard  35  Gin.  Mix  in  the 
order  stated. — F.  Cod. 

Unguentum  sulphuris  compositum,  N.  F.  ; Compound  sulphur  ointment,  Wilkinson’s  oint- 
ment, Hebra’s  itch  ointment. — Mix  15  parts  of  oil  of  cade  with  30  parts  each  of  lard  and  green 
soap  5 then  gradually  incorporate  15  parts  of  sublimed  sulphur  and  10  parts  of  precipitated  cal- 
cium carbonate. 

Uses. — The  chief  use  of  sulphur  ointment  is  in  the  treatment  of  scabies.  The  modes 
of  using  it  and  the  conditions  of  its  success  have  been  described  under  Sulphur. 

UNGUENTUM  SULPHURIS  IQDIDI,  JBv . — Ointment  of  Iodide  of 

Sulphur. 

Pommade  d’iodure  de  soufre , Fr.  ; Jodschwefelsalbe , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Sulphur  Iodide  30  grains  ; Hard  Paraffin  I oz. ; Soft  Paraf- 
fin f oz.  Triturate  the  sulphur  iodide  in  a glass  or  porcelain  mortar,  and  gradually  add 
the  melted  mixture  of  paraffins,  rubbing  them  together  until  the  ointment  is  perfectly 
smooth  and  free  from  grittiness. — Br. 

Uses. — Its  tendency  to  speedy  decomposition  renders  this  ointment  practically  of 
little  value,  even  in  the  treatment  of  limited  chronic  eruptions  of  eczema , lepra , and  acne, 
and  of  lupus. 

UNGUENTUM  TEREBINTHIN^E,  Hr.,  I \ G. — Ointment  of 

Turpentine. 

Onguent  terebenthine , Fr.  ; Terpentinsalbe , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Oil  of  Turpentine  1 fluidounce ; Resin,  in  coarse  powder, 
54  grains;  Yellow  Wax,  Prepared  Lard,  each  u ounce>  Melt  these  ingredients  together 
by  the  heat  of  a steam  or  water-bath.  Remove  the  vessel,  and  stir  the  mixture  constantly 
while  it  cools. — Br. 

Melt  turpentine  and 
P.  G. 

Unguentum  digestivum  simplex,  F.  Cod. — Onguent  digestif  simple,  Fr. — Triturate 
Venice  turpentine  40  parts  with  yelk  of  egg  20  parts,  and  add  olive  oil  10  parts. 

Uses. — This  ointment  has  the  same  virtues  as  the  compound  resin  cerate,  but,  being 
softer,  is  more  convenient  for  application  to  burns , erysipelas , erythema , and  other  recent 
local  inflammations  of  the  skin. 

UNGUENTUM  VERATRINiE,  JJ.  S.,  Hr. — Veratrine  Ointment. 

Unguentum  veratrise , Br. — Veratria  ointment , E.  ; Pommade  de  veratrine,  Fr. ; Vera- 
trinsalbe , G. 

Preparation. — Veratrine  4 Gm.;  Olive  Oil  6 Gm.  ; Benzoinated  Lard  90  Gm. 
Rub  the  veratrine  with  the  olive  oil  in  a mortar  ; then  gradually  add  the  benzoinated 
lard,  and  mix  thoroughly. — U.  S. 

Each  troyounce  of  the  ointment  contains  20  grains  of  veratrine,  30  grains  (34  minims) 
of  olive  oil,  and  430  grains  of  benzoinated  lard. 

Rub  together  veratrine  8 grains  and  olive  oil  1 fluidrachm  ; melt  hard  paraffin  I ounce 
and  soft  paraffin  f ounce,  and  mix  the  whole  thoroughly  in  a mortar  until  cold. — Br. 

To  prevent  annoyance  from  the  dust  arising  during  the  trituration  of  dry  veratrine, 
the  alkaloid  should  be  previously  covered  with  a small  quantity  of  olive  oil,  as  directed  in 
the  first  formula. 

Uses. — The  American  is  more  than  twice  as  strong  as  the  British  ointment.  (For  an 
account  of  its  uses  see  Veratrina.) 

UNGUENTUM  ZINCI  OXIDI,  JJ.  S. — Ointment  of  Zinc  Oxide. 

Unguentum  zinci , Br.,  P.  G. ; Unguentum  de  nihilo  albo. — Pommade  dioxyde  de  zinc, 
Fr.  ; Zinksalhe , G. 

Preparation. — Zinc  oxide  200  Gm.  ; Benzoinated  Lard  800  Gm.  ; to  make  1000 
Gm.  Sift  the  zinc  oxide,  through  a No.  20  sieve,  upon  the  surface  of  the  benzoinated 
lard,  previously  melted,  and  incorporate  it  by  stirring,  which  is  to  be  continued  until  the 
ointment  is  cool. — U.  S. 


yellow  wax,  of  each  1 part,  and  add  oil  of  turpentine  1 part. — 


UREA. 


1673 


Each  troyounce  of  the  ointment  contains  96  grains  of  zinc  oxide  and  384  grains  of 
benzoinated  lard. 

Other  pharmacopoeias  direct — Zinc  oxide  80  grains,  benzoinated  lard  1 oz.  av. — Br. 
Zinc  oxide  1 part,  benzoinated  lard  (lard,  P.  6r.)  9 parts. — F.  Cod. 

Since  zinc  ointment  is  frequently  applied  to  very  tender  excoriated  surfaces,  it  is  of 
great  importance  that  it  should  be  entirely  free  from  lumps  and  gritty  particles,  and  for 
this  reason  we  should  prefer  to  sift  the  zinc  oxide  through  fine  bolting-cloth,  instead  of 
the  No.  20  sieve  directed  above.  On  keeping,  the  ointment  gradually  acquires  a tough 
consistence. 

Allied  Preparations. — Unguentum  zinci  oleati,  Br.  Oleate  of  zinc  1 oz. ; soft  paraffin  1 oz. 

Unguentum  calamine,  Br.  (Turner’s  cerate).  Prepared  calamine  1 oz.  ; benzoated  lard  5 oz. 

Ceratum  zinci  carbon atis,  U.  S.  1870.  Precipitated  zinc  carbonate  1 oz. ; simple  ointment 
5 oz. 

Uses. — Zinc  oxide  ointment  is  a protective,  astringent,  and  mildly  stimulant  applica- 
tion, adapted  to  ulcers  which  are  irritable,  have  loose  granulations,  and  discharge  pus 
copiously.  It  is  especially  useful  as  a dressing  for  fissures  of  the  nipple  and  anus; 
for  local  eruptions  of  eczema , herpes , and  impetigo  ; for  all  cases  of  simple  abrasion  or 
ulceration , including  blistered  surfaces,  after  their  active  inflammation  has  subsided ; for 
ophthalmia  tarsi , etc.  The  cerate,  which  is  no  longer  officinal,  was  employed  in  similar 
affections. 

UREA. — Urea. 

Carbamide. — Uree,  Fr. ; Harnstoff , GT. 

Formula  CH4N20  ==  CO(NH2)2.  Molecular  weight  59.95. 

Origin. — Urea  was  discovered  in  urine  by  Rouelle  (1773),  and,  in  the  impure  condi- 
tion in  which  he  obtained  it,  designated  as  extrait  savonneux  de  Turine.  Fourcroy  and 
Vauquelin  (1799)  prepared  it  in  the  pure  state.  It  has  been  found  in  the  urine  of  mam- 
mals, more  particularly  in  that  of  the  Carnivora,  in  the  urine  of  birds  and  other  animals, 
and  in  many  animal  fluids.  Human  urine  contains  from  2 to  4 per  cent,  of  urea.  The 
transformation  into  urea  of  ammonium  cyanate  by  evaporating  its  aqueous  solution,  as 
observed  by  Wohler  (1828),  was  the  first  instance  in  which  an  organic  compound  pro- 
duced in  the  living  organism  was  artificially  formed.  Urea  has  also  been  artificially  pre- 
pared from  other  cyanogen  compounds. 

Preparation. — Urine  is  evaporated  to  a syrupy  consistence,  allowed  to  cool,  and  the 
residue  mixed  with  an  equal  volume  of  nitric  acid.  The  nitrate  of  urea,  which  crystal- 
lizes in  scales  and  prisms,  is  purified  by  washing  with  cold  water  and  by  recrystallization, 
and  is  then  decomposed  by  boiling  with  water  and  barium  carbonate  ; the  filtrate  is  evap- 
orated and  the  residue  exhausted  with  alcohol.  Oxalic  acid  and  calcium  carbonate  may 
be  substituted  in  this  process  for  nitric  acid  and  barium  carbonate. 

Properties. — Urea  crystallizes  in  colorless  and  inodorous  four-sided  prisms,  which 
have  a cooling  saline  taste  and  are  permanent  in  dry  air.  It  melts  near  120°  C.  (248° 
F.),  and  at  a higher  heat  is  decomposed,  giving  off  ammonia  and  leaving  cyanuric  acid, 
which  at  a still  higher  temperature  yields  cyanic  acid.  Urea  dissolves  in  its  own  weight 
of  cold  water,  is  readily  soluble  in  alcohol,  but  is  slightly  soluble  in  pure  ether.  In  con- 
tact with  nitrogen  trioxide  urea  is  decomposed  into  carbon  dioxide,  nitrogen,  and  water. 
A similar  decomposition  is  effected  by  an  acidulated  solution  of  potassium  permanganate. 
Dissolved  in  pure  water,  urea  keeps  unchanged  for  a long  time,  but  in  the  presence  of 
putrefiable  matter  it  is  rapidly  decomposed,  yielding  ammonia  and  carbon  dioxide ; hence 
foul  urine  contains  no  urea. 

Urea  forms  crystallizable  compounds  with  acids,  with  metallic  oxides,  and  with  many 
neutral  salts.  Urea  hydrochlora.te  is  very  deliquescent.  Urea  nitrate , CH4N20.IIN03, 
is  slightly  soluble  in  cold  water  and  alcohol  and  nearly  insoluble  in  nitric  acid  ; it  con- 
tains 48.78  per  cent,  of  urea.  Urea  oxalate , (CH4N20)2.II2C204,  crystallizes  in  scales 
which  dissolve  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  in  23  parts  of  water,  but  require  a much  larger  quan- 
tity of  solution  of  oxalic  acid;  it  contains  57.14  per  cent,  of  urea.  The  amount  of 
urea  in  urine  is  frequently  determined  by  forming  the  compound  either  with  nitric  or 
oxalic  acid. 

Allied  Compound. — Formamide,  CII3NO  = CIIO.NH2.  It  is  produced  on  the  dry  distillation 
of  ammonium  formate  on  heating  a mixture  of  this  salt  and  of  urea  to  about  140°  C.  (2X4°  F.), 
on  heating  ethvlformate  and  ammonia,  and  by  various  other  processes.  It  is  a colorless  oily 
liquid,  which  in  vacuo  distils  without  decomposition  below  150°  C.  (302°  F.),  and  which  is  soluble 
in  water  and  alcohol  in  all  proportions,  but  is  insoluble  in  ether.  Mercuric  Formamide,  Hydrar- 
gyrum formamidatuin,  has  been  used  hypodermically. 


1674 


URETHANUM. 


Action  and  Uses. — More  than  half  a century  ago  it  was  demonstrated  by 
Segalas  that  urea  injected  into  the  veins  of  animals  increased  notably  the  discharge  of 
urine,  with  a greatly  augmented  proportion  of  urea,  and,  much  more  recently,  Wohler  and 
Frerichs  alleged  that  when  introduced  into  an  animal’s  stomach  it  reappeared  almost 
entirely  in  the  urine.  Gallois,  however,  proved  that  only  two-thirds  at  most  of  the  urea 
thus  administered  was  recoverable  from  the  urine,  and  also  that  in  very  large  doses, 
such  as  300  grains,  given  to  a rabbit,  it  occasioned  prostration,  trembling,  convul- 
sions, and  death.  Similar  large  doses  injected  into  the  veins  or  hypodermically  produced 
the  same  effects,  and  non-lethal  quantities  of  urea  occasioned  deep  coma,  paroxysmal 
spasms,  hurried  respiration,  trembling,  injection  of  the  capillary  vessels,  and  frequent 
urination. 

Although,  according  to  Rabuteau,  it  exhibits  no  diuretic  action  in  man.  even  when 
taken  to  the  extent  of  Gm.  5 (gr.  lxxv.)  a day,  yet  several  physicians  have  testified  to 
its  virtues  in  dropsy , and  one  of  high  reputation  particularly  recommended  the  nitrate  of 
urea  as  a remedy  for  scarlatinous  dropsy.  It  was  prescribed  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.12-0.18 
(gr.  ij-iij)  several  times  a day. 

URETHANUM.— Urethane. 

Ethyl  urethane , Ethyl  carbamate , E. ; Urethane , Fr. ; Urethan , G. 

Formula  C2H5NH2C02  or  CO.NH2.OC2H5=  C3H7N02.  Molecular  weight  88.94. 

In  chemistry  the  general  term  “ urethane  ” is  applied  to  all  ethers  of  carbamic  acid, 
which  acid,  however,  has  thus  far  never  been  isolated,  and  is  only  known  in  combination : 
its  most  familiar  compound  is  ammonium  carbamate,  NH4NH2C02,  one  of  the  constituents 
of  official  ammonium  carbonate.  If  the  formula  for  carbamic  acid  is  assumed  to  be 
HNH2C02,  then  the  formation  of  all  urethanes  may  be  explained  by  the  substitution  of 
a univalent  radical  for  the  1 atom  of  displaceable  hydrogen,  which  may  be  brought  about 
in  various  ways. 

Preparation. — In  medicine  the  name  urethane  is  meant  to  signify  but  one  combina- 
tion, ethyl  urethane,  which  was  discovered  by  Dumas  in  1833,  and  may  be  obtained  either 
by  the  action  of  ammonia  on  ethyl  carbonate  or  ethyl  chlorocarbonate,  by  the  direct  union 
of  cyanic  acid  with  ethyl  alcohol,  or  by  the  action  of  urea  or  carbamide  on  ethyl  alcohol 
at  a high  temperature.  The  following  equations  will  explain  the  four  different  reactions : 
1st.  (C2H5)2G03  + NH3  = C2H5NH2C02  + C2H5OH  ; 2d.  C2H5C1C03  + NH3  = C2H5NH2- 
C02  + HC1;  3d.  CNHO  + C2HrOH C2H6NH2C02 ; 4tli.  (NH2)2CO  + C2H5OH  = C2- 
H5NH2C02  — j-  NH3.  For  use  in  medicine  urethane  is  generally  prepared  by  heating  in  a 
sealed  tube  for  several  hours,  to  a temperature  of  120°  or  130°  C.  (248°  or  266°  F.),  a 
mixture  of  urea  nitrate  and  an  excess  of  alcohol ; upon  cooling  a crystalline  mass  results, 
which  is  dissolved  in  water  and  shaken  with  ether.  The  ethereal  solution  upon  distilla- 
tion leaves  urethane  in  crystals  which  may  be  purified  by  recrystallization  from  water. 

Properties  and  Tests. — Urethane  occurs  in  colorless  columnar  or  tabular  crystals, 
which  are  not  deliquescent,  are  inodorous,  and  of  a pleasant  saline  somewhat  cooling 
taste,  and  melt  between  47°  and  50°  C.  (116.6°  and  122°  F.).  Urethane  boils  between 
170°  and  180°  C.  (338°  and  356°  F.),  but  sublimes  at  a much  lower  temperature. 
According  to  Vulpius,  urethane  is  soluble  at  medium  temperature  (60°  F.  ?)  in  1 part 
of  water,  0.6  part  of  alcohol,  1 part  of  ether,  1.5  parts  of  chloroform,  0.8  part  of  lique- 
fied carbolic  acid,  3 parts  of  glycerin,  15  parts  of  castor  oil,  or  20  parts  of  olive  oil : a 
10  per  cent,  aqueous  solution  should  have  a neutral  reaction.  Heated  on  platinum-foil, 
urethane  is  completely  volatilized ; it  is  decomposed  by  potassa,  yielding  potassium  car- 
bonate, ammonia,  and  alcohol.  2 Gm.  dissolved  in  2 Cc.  of  cold  water  should  not  yield  a 
white  precipitate  upon  addition  of  5 Cc.  of  nitric  acid,  or  of  oxalic  acid  or  of  mercuric 
nitrate  (absence  of  urea). 

Allied  Compound. — Europhin,  or  phenyl  urethane,  C2I15NHC6H5C02,  is  obtained  by  the 
interaction  of  aniline  and  chloroformic  ethyl  ether;  thus,  C6H5NH2  4-  C2H5C1C02  = C2H5NHC6- 
II5C02  -j-  HC1,  and  is  purified  by  recrystallization  from  diluted  alcohol.  It  is  a white  or  colorless 
crystalline  powder,  of  faint  aromatic  odor  and  slight  clove-like  after-taste.  Europhin  is  sparingly 
soluble  in  cold,  but  more  readily  in  hot,  water,  and  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  and  hydro-alcoholic 
mixtures,  such  as  wines,  etc.  ; it  is  also  soluble  without  color  in  cold  concentrated  sulphuric 
acid.  The  compound  melts  between  49°  and  50°  C.  (120.2°  and  122°  F.). 

Action  and  Uses. — In  1885,  Jaksch  found  that  in  man  a dose  of  from  8-15  grains 
of  urethane  produced  peaceful  slumber  of  several  hours’  duration  ( Times  and  Gaz .,  Oct. 
1885,  p.  485).  It  did  not  appear  to  exert  any  direct  anodyne  influence.  Friedlander’s 


URETIIANUM. 


1675 


investigations  seemed  to  prove  that  even  in  the  minute  dose  of  Grin.  0.001  (^  grain)  it 
occasioned  lassitude  and  depression,  with  retching  and  vomiting.  The  visible  mucous 
membranes  turned  pale,  the  pupils  acted  irregularly,  and  the  pulse  and  heart  failed.  But 
no  such  effects  from  similar  doses  have  been  noted  by  other  observers.  While  suffering 
from  pain  Friedl'ander  took  a drachm  of  urethane,  and  secured  thereby  a comfortable  night’s 
rest,  while  on  the  following  night  it  excited  him  ( Therap . Gaz .,  ix.  852).  The  inharmo- 
nious statements  concerning  the  effects  of  this  preparation  do  not  appear  to  diminish  as 
its  use  becomes  less  restricted.  Hiibner  and  Sticker  affirm  that  it  occasions  no  unpleasant 
after-effects,  and  that  a dose  of  30  grains  is  not  less  hypnotic  than  a dose  of  60  grains ; 
but  Otto  and  Koenig  allege  that  it  is  more  apt  than  paraldehyde  to  occasion  vomiting, 
and  that  its  narcotic  action  is  less  decided.  They  also  accuse  it  of  producing  loss  of 
appetite,  etc.  On  the  whole,  the  action  of  this  preparation  resembles  that  of  paraldehyde, 
over  which  it  has  the  advantage  of  being  free  from  unpleasant  smell  and  taste. 

The  general  result  of  experience  appears  to  be  that  urethane  is  an  unreliable  hypnotic. 
(Compare  Gordon,  Therap.  Gaz.,  xiv.  102.)  Kroepelin  found  it  useful  for  melancholic 
patients  suffering  from  insomnia  and  in  cases  of  “ mild  excitement  or  depression  accom- 
panied by  exhaustion  or  depressed  nutrition  ” (Med.  News , xlviii.  626).  Otto  and  Koenig, 
on  the  other  hand,  claim  it  to  have  had  a very  favorable  action  in  violence  of  an  hysterical 
or  epileptic  nature,  and  Rottenbiller  seems  to  have  used  it  with  general  advantage  for  the 
relief  of  insomnia  in  the  insane  in  doses  of  from  30  to  60  grains.  He  also  employed  with 
similar  results  hypodermic  injections,  two  of  which,  of  4 grains  each,  sufficed  ( Therap . 
Gaz.,  x.  474).  But,  besides  its  uncertainty  of  action  even  in  doses  of  30  or  more  grains, 
it  is  apt,  if  continued,  to  induce  disorder  of  the  stomach.  (Compare  Griffith  and  Kirby, 
Med.  News , lii.  547.)  Adam,  however,  found  it  a very  useful  hypnotic  in  various  forms 
of  insanity,  provided  it  were  given  in  doses  of  Gm.  3-4  (45-60  gr.)  (Annuaire  de  Therap., 
1889,  p.  16).  Yakulovsky  (Land.  Med.  Record,  July,  1886,  p.  305)  found  it  of  little  use 
in  alcoholic  delirium,  rheumatic  pains,  sleeplessness,  and  cancer  of  the  stomach  when 
given  in  10-grain  doses.  A case  of  traumatic  tetanus  in  a boy  of  fifteen  years  is  said  to 
have  been  cured  by  urethane  given  in  4-grain  doses  every  two  hours — a result  that  it 
would  be  desirable  to  have  confirmed  by  experience.  In  a case  of  tetany  of  long  standing 
the  medicine  gave  prompt  relief  (ibid.,  Sept.  1889,  p.  230).  The  experiments  of  Anrep 
also  show  the  control  of  this  agent  over  tetanoid  spasms  (Ball,  de  Therap.,  cxii.  130).  A 
case  of  severe  and  obstinate  chorea,  is  reported  in  which  urethane  procured  sleep  and  tran- 
quillity after  the  bromides  had  failed  to  do  so  (Boston  Med.  and  Surg.  Jour.,  May,  1886, 
p.  419).  In  many  cases  it  has  been  found  an  efficient  substitute  for  opiates. 

Urethane  may  be  given  in  capsules  or  in  a flavored  and  sweetened  watery  solution.  Its 
average  dose  is  about  Gm.  1 (gr.  xv),  but  three  times  as  much  has  frequently  been  taken 
without  untoward  effects.  It  has  also  been  administered  hypodermically,  and  generally 
in  about  one-fourth  of  the  dose  given  by  the  mouth,  without  occasioning  infiltration  or 
abscess.  But  its  hypnotic  action  when  thus  administered  is  more  uncertain  than  when 
the  medicine  is  taken  in  the  ordinary  manner.  It  is  conveniently  given  by  the  rectum. 

Ural  partakes  of  the  hypnotic  qualities  of  its  constituents,  urethane  and  chloral 
hydrate.  It  is  declared  by  Poppi  (Centralb.  f.  Ther.,  viii.  184;  Therap.  Gaz.,  xiii.  687) 
to  affect  but  slightly  the  blood-pressure  and  the  temperature  ; but,  like  chloral,  it  quickens 
the  pulse-rate  and  induces  sleep,  which  in  man  is  usually  light,  but  apt  to  be  followed  by 
more  or  less  heaviness  of  the  head  and  drowsiness.  It  neither  dulls  the  mind  nor  occa- 
sions faintness  or  disturbance  of  the  stomach.  It  has  been  used  with  reputed  advantage 
to  relieve  obstinate  cough  and  the  pain  of  angina : pectoris,  to  procure  sleep,  etc.  The  pri- 
mary dose  is  said  to  be  Gm.  1.50-2  (gr.  xx-xxx).  As  much  as  60  or  70  grains  have  been 
given  without  harm.  (See  also  page  455.) 

Euphorin  is  reported  to  be  antithermic,  antirheumatic,  analgesic,  and  antiseptic. 
According  to  the  experiments,  clinical  and  bacteriological,  of  Dr.  C.  Curtis,  it  is  both  a 
powerful  and  a safe  antipyretic,  producing  the  phenomena  of  a natural  defervescence, 
causes  no  serious  secondary  effects  and  never  collapse,  and  is  “ a most  potent  antirheu- 
matic.” In  “simple  fever  the  dose  is  Gm.  1—2,  taken  in  four  or  five  doses.  In  febrile 
rheumatic  affections  Gm.  1-2  should  be  given  during  twenty-four  hours.”  It  is  also  said 
to  be  “ a sure  analgesic  in  neuralgia  unless  when  due  to  a specific  cause ;”  it  is  a powerful 
antiseptic  ; and  “ one  of  the  most  effective  disinfectants  in  thrush.”  Locally,  it  is  thought 
to  have  advantages  over  iodoform,  iodol,  aristol,  etc.;  and  in  an  ointment  with  vaselin  or 
lanolin  it  is  an  anodyne  and  promotes  the  healing  of  wounds  and  ulcers  (Squibb,  Ephe- 
meris , iv.  26).  These  favorable  estimates  of  the  preparation  are  hardly  confirmed  by  the 
later  observations  of  Koster,  who  described  its  action  as  “ capricious”  (Therap.  Monatsh.} 


1676 


UR  TIC  A. 


Aug.  1892).  It  has  been  found  useful  as  a topical  application  to  ulcers  and  for  purulent 
and  fetid  discharges. 

URTICA.—  Nettle. 

Ortie  brulante , Fr. ; Brennessel , G. ; Ortigo , Sp. 

Urtica  dioica,  Linne , and  T.  urens,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Urticaceae,  Urticese. 

Origin  and  Description. — Both  plants  are  common  in  waste  places,  along  hedges 
and  roadsides,  throughout  the  greater  part  of  Europe  and  Northern  Asia,  and  have  been 
thoroughly  naturalized  in  North  America,  where  the  small  annual,  U.  urens,  is  less  fre- 
quent than  the  taller  perennial,  U.  dioica,  Both  species  are  covered  with  stiff  stinging 
hairs  and  have  opposite  stipulate  and  petiolate  leaves. 

Urtica  dioica.  The  leaves  are  5—8  Cm.  (2  or  3 inches)  long,  dark -green  above, 
whitish  downy  beneath,  ovate  or  ovate-lanceolate,  heart-shaped,  pointed,  and  coarsely  ser- 
rate. The  small  greenish  flowers  are  usually  dioecious,  in  small  clusters,  and  these  are 
arranged  in  branching  and  hanging  spikes.  The  bast-fibres  have  been  used  for  the  manu- 
facture of  nettle-cloth. 

Urtica  urens.  The  leaves  are  2-5  Cm.  (1  or  2 inches)  long,  pale-green,  elliptic, 
deeply  serrate,  and  almost  five-nerved.  The  small  and  loose  flower-clusters  appear  in 
axillary  pairs. 

Allied  Plants. — Urtica  (Laportea,  Gaudichaud)  canadensis,  Linne.  The  leaves  are  alternate, 
10-15  Cm.  (4  to  6 inches)  long,  long-petioled,  ovate  or  elliptic,  obtusely  serrate,  and  strongly 
feather-veined.  The  flower-clusters  form  axillary  loosely-paniculate  cymes.  The  plant  is 
common  in  miry,  shaded  grounds,  attains  a height  of  .9-1.5  M.  (3  to  5 feet),  is  armed  with  sting- 
ing hairs,  and  has  strong  bast-fibres. 

Urtica  crenulata,  Roxburgh , U.  stimulans,  Linn£ , and  U.  urentissima,  Blume , indigenous 
to  India,  are  more  violently  irritating  than  the  above  species. 

U.  pilulifera,  Linnd , grows  in  India,  Central  Asia,  and  in  Southern  Europe.  The  fruit,  a 
glossy,  gray-brown  akene  and  roundish,  somewhat  resembles  flaxseed,  but  is  smaller,  has  an 
oily,  mucilaginous,  and  slightly  acrid  taste ; it  is  used  in  Oriental  countries  as  a galactagogue. 
The  root  is  regarded  as  diuretic. 

The  bast-fibres  of  several  nettles  in  addition  to  those  mentioned  above  are  valuable  for  cordage 
and  woven  fabrics.  Urtica  cannabina,  Linne,  is  cultivated  in  Siberia.  Boehmeria  nivea,  Hooker 
et  Arnott , of  Eastern  Asia,  yields  the  ramie  fibre,  from  which  China  grass-cloth  is  made.  The 
variety  candicans,  Weddell  (B.  tenacissima,  Gaudichaud)  yields  the  rhea  fibre.  The  fabrics  often 
possess  considerable  brilliancy,  and  these  fibres  are  used  as  a substitute  for,  or  are  mixed  with, 
silk. 

Constituents. — The  analyses  of  the  fresh  nettle  by  Saladin  (1830)  and  by  Bohlig 
(1840)  proved  the  presence  of  mucilage,  salts,  and  other  common  constituents  of  plants, 
and  on  distilling  the  herb  with  water  notable  quantities  of  ammonia  and  carbonic  acid 
were  found  in  the  distillate.  B.  Shoemaker  (1866)  observed  that  the  watery  distillate 
from  the  root  had  diuretic  properties.  Gorup-Besanez  (1849)  recognized  the  irritating 
(compound  contained  in  the  stinging  hairs  as  free  formic  acid , which  is  also  contained  in 
the  aqueous  distillate  of  the  fresh  herb.  A.  Buchner,  however,  observed  that  the  inflam- 
mation produced  by  free  formic  acid  is  of  a different  character  from  that  produced  by 
nettles,  and  regarded  the  presence  of  another  irritating  compound  besides  formic  acid  as 
probable. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  seeds  and  leaves  of  the  nettle  were  much  used  in  ancient 
times  in  poultices  or  bruised  for  unhealthy  ulcers  as  well  as  for  recent  wounds  and 
sprains.  The  bruised  leaves  were  introduced  into  the  nostrils  to  arrest  epistaxis,  and 
given  in  honey  for  the  cure  of  pulmonary  catarrhs.  The  well-known  irritation  of  the 
skin  caused  by  nettles  is  due  to  an  acrid  secretion  contained  in  a minute  vesicle  situated 
at  the  base  of  each  of  the  stiff  hairs  that  beset  the  leaves.  When  the  points  of  these 
sharp  and  hollow  spines  penetrate  the  skin,  the  poisonous  juice  is  expressed  into  its  tissue, 
and  gives  rise  to  a burning  and  stinging  pain,  with  inflammatory  redness  and  swelling. 
The  case  is  recorded  of  a woman  who,  by  mistake,  drank  2 cupfuls  of  a decoction  of  net- 
tle-leaves. On  the  following  day  she  experienced  severe  burning  over  the  whole  of  the 
upper  part  of  the  body,  with  formication  and  stiffness.  The  features  were  greatly  swollen. 
Over  the  affected  surface  minute  vesicles  appeared,  which  burst  and  discharged  a limpid 
and  in  some  parts  a bloody  fluid.  In  the  course  of  five  or  six  days  the  eruption  dried  up. 
No  fever  accompanied  the  attack  ( Archives  gen.,  1835). 

Nettle-juice  has  always  been  reputed  to  be  an  efficient  remedy  for  spontaneous  haemor- 
rhage of  nearly  every  variety,  including  haemoptysis , menorrhagia , post-partum  haemor- 


UVJS. 


1677 


rhage , and  epistaxis.  Allowing  for  the  difficulty  of  determining  the  efficacy  of  any  medi- 
cine in  arresting  haemorrhage,  there  appears  to  remain  so  great  a preponderance  of  evi- 
dence in  favor  of  the  one  under  consideration  as  to  render  scepticism  in  regard  to  it 
unreasonable,  especially  as  in  most  of  the  cases  numerous  haemostatics  of  recognized 
activity  had  failed  before  this  medicine  was  employed.  The  juice  was  administered  in 
doses  of  half  an  ounce  or  an  ounce  at  intervals  of  several  hours,  and  in  no  case  does  it 
appear  to  have  given  rise  to  any  disagreeable  or  untoward  effects.  This  preparation  is 
also  reported  to  have  been  very  efficacious  in  certain  cases  of  gravel,  jaundice,  and  dropsy, 
and  the  seeds  have  been  used  in  diarrhoea,  dysentery,  leucorrhoea , and  nocturnal  inconti- 
nence of  urine.  The  decoction  of  the  leaves  and  stalks  is  also  said  to  display  curative 
powers  in  chronic  diseases  of  the  shin,  and,  as  well  as  the  expressed  juice,  to  cure  ulcera- 
tive affections  of  the  mouth  and  throat.  Poultices  made  by  boiling  the  fresh  leaves  have 
been  reputed  to  cure  gangrenous,  scorbutic,  and  other  unhealthy  ulcers.  Urtication  is  the 
name  applied  to  producing  an  irritation  of  the  skin  by  means  of  nettles.  It  is  performed 
by  taking  in  the  gloved  hand  a bunch  of  nettles  and  flagellating  the  skin  with  it  until 
the  redness  and  the  stinging  pain  denote  that  the  intended  effect  is  produced.  This 
rude  stimulant  revulsion  and  counter-irritation  has  been  long  employed  for  arousing 
to  consciousness  persons  affected  with  lethargy,  congestion  of  the  brain,  intoxication  by 
alcohol  or  opium , or  hysterical  insensibility.  It  has  also  been  used  upon  the  loins  and 
thighs  to  cure  amenorrhoea  and  sexual  impotence,  and,  above  all,  as  a means  of  restoring 
power  to  paralyzed  limbs.  The  advantages  it  presents  over  blistering,  pustulation  by 
croton  oil,  etc.  consist  in  the  vivid  and  intense  impression  it  produces,  and  which  likens 
it  to  electricity  and  massage.  It  seems  to  be  a rude  expedient,  but  cases  may  occur, 
particularly  in  the  country,  for  which  it  would  be  peculiarly  adapted. 

In  Germany  the  dried  young  shoots  are  used  in  a decoction  made  with  from  10  to  20 
parts  to  100  parts  of  water.  The  juice  of  the  fresh  plant  is  given  internally  in 'table- 
spoonful doses. 

Lamium  album  (Urtica  iners,  U.  mortua)  was  long  ago  used  as  a domestic  remedy  for 
haemorrhages,  scrofula,  bronchitis,  and  leucorrhoea,  and  was  regarded  by  physicians  as 
tonic  and  astringent.  In  1887  like  virtues  were  ascribed  to  it  by  Meniere,  and  also  by 
Florain,  who  procured  from  it  a substance  which  he  called  lamine  (. Bull . de  Ther.,  cxii. 
512). 

UV^E,  Br.— Raisins. 

Uvapassa,  U.  S.  1870;  Passulse. — Raisin , F.  Cod.;  Rosinen,  Zibeben,  G. ; Rasas,  Sp. 

The  dried  fruit  of  Yitis  vinifera,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  66. 

Nat.  Ord. — Yitaceae. 

Origin. — The  Yitis  vinifera  is  indigenous  to  Western  Asia  and  probably  to  Northern 
Africa,  and  has  been  cultivated  in  Europe  from  a very  early  period ; it  has  been  intro- 
duced into  North  America,  chiefly  on  the  Pacific  coast,  and  into  other  temperate  countries. 
A large  number  of  varieties  have  been  produced,  differing  in  the  shape,  size,  and  color 
of  their  berries  and  in  other  characters.  Some  botanists  refer  the  different  varieties  of 
grapevine  to  three  or  four  species.  The  Catawba,  Isabella,  Concord,  and  other  grapes 
usually  cultivated,  in  the  United  States  are  varieties  of  the  indigenous  Yitis  Labrusca, 
Linne. 

The  genus  Aritis  consists  of  shrubs  climbing  by  tendrils,  and  bearing  these  and  the 
greenish,  compound-racemose  flowers  opposite  the  leaves.  The  calyx  is  small,  the  five 
petals  are  united  at  the  apex,  fall  off  together  by  separating  at  the  base,  and  alternate 
with  five  stamens,  which  enclose  a two-celled  ovary,  ripening  into  a juicy  berry  contain- 
ing about  four  hard  pyriform  seeds. 

The  tender  branchlets  ( pampini  iritis')  with  the  leaves  are  sometimes  employed  for 
their  agreeable  acidulous  flavor.  The  unripe  berries  ( agresta j contain  a considerable 
amount  of  tartaric  acid,  and  yield,  when  expressed,  a very  acerb  juice  ( omphacium ), 
which  after  fermentation  is  sue  de  verjus,  F.  Cod.  The  mature  fruits,  dried,  constitute 
the  raisins. 

Collection. — When  the  grapes  are  ripe  their  stalks  are  cut  half  through  or  a portion 
of  the  bark  is  removed,  and  the  grapes  are  allowed  to  remain  upon  the  vines  for  a few 
weeks,  and  then  cut  off,  sometimes  steeped  for  a short  time  in  a weak  lye  to  remove  the 
waxy  bloom,  and  then  completely  dried  ; or  the  ripe  grapes  are  cut  off,  spread  out  upon 
a hard  clay  floor,  and  dried  by  exposure  to  the  sun,  which  requires  a week  or  two.  In 
rainy  weather  artificial  heat  is  used  for  drying  them. 

Description. — The  ripe  berry  of  the  grapevine  is  one-cellcd  from  the  obliteration 


1678 


UVA  URSI. 


of  the  cell-wall,  and  is  globular  or  oblong  in  shape.  After  drying  it  is  shrivelled  and 
flattened,  more  or  less  orbicular,  of  a brownish  color,  and  somewhat  translucent.  When 
long  kept,  raisins  become  more  opaque,  owing  to  the  crystallization  of  the  sugar  and 
cream  of  tartar.  Raisins  are  produced  in  Southern  Europe,  and  in  commerce  are  dis- 
tinguished generally  by  the  ports  of  exportation. 

Varieties. — Uy^e  malacenses,  F.  Cod .,  Passuke  majores. — Raisins  de  Malaga,  Fr. — Those  pro- 
duced in  Spain  are  usually  preferred,  and  are  ordered  by  the  Br.  P.  They  have  either  been 
removed  from  the  stalks,  like  the  Valencia  raisins , or  are  sold  in  bunches,  like  the  Malaga  or 
Muscatel  raisins.  The  seedless  or  Sultana  raisins  are  rather  smaller  than  the  Spanish  and 
Italian  raisins,  and  are  exported  from  Asia  Minor. 

UvjE  corinthiacte,  F.  Cod .,  Passulse  minores. — Corinthian  raisins,  E. ; Raisins  de  Corinth, 
Fr. ; Korinthen,  G. — They  are  produced  in  Greece  and  the  adjacent  islands,  and  are  often  incor- 
rectly called  currants;  they  are  much  smaller  than  those  previously  described,  are  usually 
deprived  of  their  stalks,  mostly  adhere  together  in  masses,  and  have  a vinous  odor  and  a sweet 
and  acidulous  taste. 

Constituents. — The  shin  of  ripe  grapes  contains  tannin  and  coloring  matter.  The 
chief  constituents  of  the  pulp  are  grape-sugar  and  acid  potassium  tartrate,  besides 
gummy  matter,  calcium  tartrate,  and  a small  quantity  of  malic  acid.  The  seeds  contain 
about  5 per  cent,  of  tannin,  green  resin,  and  over  10  per  cent,  of  a bland  oil  (see  p. 
1130). 

Uses. — The  pulp  of  raisins  is  nutritive  and  demulcent,  and  is  used  to  flavor  mucilag- 
inous and  amylaceous  infusions,  such  as  those  of  flaxseed,  oatmeal,  rice,  barley,  etc.  In 
its  fresh  state  the  pulp  is  diuretic,  chiefly  through  the  grape-sugar  it  contains. 

Ribes  nigrum , or  black  currant,  tops  and  leaves  are  stated  by  Cazin  to  be  astringent, 
tonic,  diuretic,  diaphoretic,  etc.  They  were  employed  in  France  in  hot  infusion  and  also 
in  decoction  as  a diuretic.  An  infusion  in  white  wine  was  considered  efficient  in  chronic 
vesical  catarrh.  The  juice  of  the  fruit  is  subacid,  and  is  used  as  a gargle  and  also  in  the 
form  of  a jelly  for  sore  throat. 

UVA  URSI,  U.  S.,  F.  Cod.— Uva  Ursi. 

Uva s ursi  folia , Br.,  P.  G. — Bearberry -leaves,  E. ; Busserole , Raisin  fours , Fr. ; Baren- 
traubenbldtter , G. ; Gayuba , Sp. 

The  dried  leaves  of  Arctostaphylos  (Arbutus,  Linne)  Uva  ursi,  Sprengel  (Arct.  offici- 
nalis, Wimmer).  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 163. 

Nat.  Ord. — Ericaceae,  Arbuteae. 

Origin. — -The  bearberry  is  a trailing,  much-branched,  evergreen  shrub,  which  is  dis- 
tributed throughout  the  northern  portion  of  the,  northern  hemisphere,  and  grows  in  most 

parts  of  Europe,  in  Northern  Asia,  and  throughout 
the  North  American  continent  as  far  south  as  New 
Jersey  and  in  the  mountains  of  Colorado.  It  is 
found  in  dry,  rocky,  or  sandy  places  and  in  pine 
woods ; southward  it  grows  chiefly  in  hilly  or 
mountainous  regions.  It  bears  short  and  drooping 
racemes  of  from  three  to  twelve  whitish,  urn-shaped 
flowers  and  small,  bright-red  drupes  containing  five 
flattened  nutlets,  each  with  one  seed.  The  flowers 
appear  in  May,  and  the  fruit  ripens  in  autumn,  at 
which  time  the  leaves  should  be  collected. 

Description. — Bearberry -leaves  are  nearly  ses- 
sile, about  2 Cm.  (J  inch)  long,  6-8  Mm.  (4  or  £ 
inch)  wide,  obovate  or  oblong-spatulate,  entire,  and 
slightly  revolute  on  the  margin,  obtuse  or  appa- 
rently retuse  at  the  apex,  and  almost  wedge-shaped 
at  the  base.  They  have  a leathery  texture,  a dark- 
green  rather  glossy  upper  surface,  with  depressed 
veins,  are  paler,  smooth,  and  reticulately-veined  be- 
neath, and  the  leaves  have  a faint  hay-like  odor  and 
a strongly  astringent  and  slightly  bitter  taste. 

Constituents. — Meissner  (1824)  found  in  uva 
ursi  gallic  acid  and  tannin,  producing  with  ferric 
salts  a blue-black  precipitate.  Kawalier  (1852)  cor- 
roborated the  existence  of  gallic  acid  in  bearberry-leaves,  and  to  its  presence  is  due  the 


Fig.  311. 


Arctostaphylos  Uva  ursi,  Sprengel. 


UVA  URSI. 


1679 


red  and  violet  color  produced  by  a fragment  of  ferrous  sulphate  when  agitated  with  an 
infusion  made  from  1 part  of  uva  ursi  with  50  parts  of  water.  Bowman  (1869)  deter- 
mined the  amount  of  tannin,  by  means  of  gelatin,  to  be  6.33  per  cent.  Besides  resin, 
sugar,  and  some  other  unimportant  constituents,  Kawalier  isolated  from  the  leaves  arbutin 
and  ericolin,  and  Trommsdorlf  another  crystalline  body,  ursone.  Arbutin , C24H320u.H20, 
is  obtained  from  the  decoction  of  the  leaves  by  precipitating  it  with  lead  subacetate, 
treating  the  filtrate  with  hydrogen  sulphide,  and  evaporating  to  crystallize.  It  forms 
neutral,  colorless,  silky  needles,  of  a bitter  taste,  freely  soluble  in  hot  water  and  in  alco- 
hol, and  sparingly  soluble  in  ether.  Julius  Jungmann  (1872)  observed  that  an  aqueous 
solution  of  arbutin,  rendered  alkaline  by  ammonia  or  potassa,  acquires  a deep  azure-blue 
color  on  the  addition  of  phosphomolybdic  acid.  On  being  dissolved  in  strong  nitric  acid, 
arbutin  yields,  after  the  addition  of  alcohol,  pale-yellow  needles  of  dinitro-arbutin.  By 
emulsin  or  by  hot  diluted  sulphuric  acid  arbutin  is  decomposed  into  glucose  and  hydroqui- 
none  or  arctuvin , C6H602,  and  methylhydroquinone , C7H802.  Hydroquinone  crystallizes  in 
colorless,  fusible,  and  sublimable  prisms,  is  easily  soluble  in  water,  alcohol,  and  ether, 
and  is  also  produced  from  kinic  acid  by  destructive  distillation.  On  oxidizing  hydroqui- 
none or  arbutin  with  manganese  dioxide  and  sulphuric  acid  quinone  is  formed  (see  page 
360).  Hughes  ursin  (1847)  was  proven  by  Jungmann  to  be  impure  arbutin. 

The  mother-liquor  from  the  preparation  of  arbutin  contains  ericolin. 

Ericmol,  Ci0Hlf)O,  a.  decomposition-product  of  the  glucoside  ericolin , C34H5602I,  which 
was  discovered  by  Bochleder  and  Schwarz  (1852),  is  likewise  contained  in  other  erica- 
ceous  plants,  and  is  inodorous,  hygroscopic,  brown-yellow,  bitter,  soluble  in  water,  alco- 
hol, and  alcoholic  ether,  nearly  insoluble  in  ether,  chloroform,  and  benzin,  and  not  pre- 
cipitated by  lead  salts.  Thai  (1883)  gives  to  ericolin  the  formula  C26H30O3,  and  to  eri- 
cinol  C20H26O ; combining  with  water,  the  latter  forms  hydro-ericinol , Cj0H20O4,  which  is  a 
thick,  brown-yellow,  balsamic,  not  bitter  fluid.  Thai  obtained  ericolin  from  over  thirty 
species  of  Ericaceae.  After  washing  the  alcoholic  extract  of  bearberry -leaves  with  water 
and  ether,  boiling  alcohol  extracts  from  the  residue  ursone , C20H34O2 ; this  crystallizes  in 
tasteless,  silky,  fusible,  and  sublimable  needles,  is  insoluble  in  water,  dilute  acids,  and 
alkalies,  and  is  sparingly  soluble  in  ether  and  cold  alcohol. 

Arbutin,  ericolin,  and  ursone  have  been  obtained  also  from  the  leathery  leaves  of  other 
ericaceous  plants. 

Adulterations  and  Substitutions. — The  leaves  of  the  following  plants  are  said  to  have  been 
sometimes  mistaken  for  those  of  uva  ursi : 

Vaccinium  vitis-id.ea,  LinnS.  It  is  known  as  cowberry , and  grows  from  New  England  north- 
ward and  in  Europe.  The  leaves  resemble  those  of  uva  ursi,  but  are  not  reticulate,  and  on  the 
lower  surface  are  dotted  with  fine,  blackish,  bristly  points. 

Vaccinium  uliginosum,  Linn6.  This  is  known  as  bog-bilberry , and  grows  in  Europe  and  the 
northern  part  of  North  America.  The  leaves  are  scarcely  leathery,  and  are  pale  blue-green  and 
pubescent  on  the  lower  surface  ; otherwise  they  resemble  the  leaves  of  uva  ursi. 

Leiophyllum  buxifolium,  Elliott.  The  sand-myrtle , indigenous  to  the  United  States  from 
New  Jersey  southward,  is  a small  shrub.  Its  leaves  are  oval  or  oblong,  shining,  reticulate,  and 
revolute  on  the  margin. 

Boxus  sempervirens,  Linn6.  The  box,  commonly  cultivated  in  gardens,  has  ovate  leaves, 
which  are  narrower  toward  the  apex  than  near  the  base.  The  leaves  contain  tannin  (Buchner), 
butyraceous  volatile  oil,  bitter  extractive,  etc.  (Bley,  1834) ; the  bitter  taste  is  due  to  buxine  and 
parabuxine.  (See  Nectandra  and  Pareira  Brava.) 

EpiG/Ea  repens,  Linn6.  Trailing  Arbutus,  Ground-laurel,  Gravel-plant,  May-flower,  E. 
Nat.  Ord.  Ericaceae,  Ericineae.  This  is  a prostrate  hairy  North  American  shrub  about  30  Cm. 
(1  foot)  long,  growing  in  sandy  woods  and  flowering  in  early  spring.  The  thin  woody  stem  is 
covered  with  a brown  bark.  The  evergreen  leaves  are  alternate,  about  5 Cm.  (2  inches)  long, 
petiolate,  coriaceous,  and  reticulated  ; their  shape  is  ovate,  the  margin  entire,  the  base  heart- 
shaped,  and  the  apex  tipped  with  a short  point.  The  flowers  are  in  small  axillary  clusters, 
rose-colored  or  whitish,  fragrant,  have  a deeply  five-parted  bracted  calyx,  a salver-form  corolla 
with  the  tube  hairy  inside,  ten  stamens,  and  produce  fivo-lobed  and  five-celled  capsules  contain- 
ing numerous  seeds.  The  leaves  are  inodorous,  and  have  a bitterish  and  astringent  taste.  The 
leaves  contain  tannin,  which  produces  a black  precipitate  with  iron  salts.  Using  gelatin  as  a 
precipitant,  H.  K.  Bowman  (1869)  determined  its  amount  to  be  3.5  per  cent.  Jefferson  Oxley 
(1872)  proved  the  constituents  to  be  identical  with  those  of  uva  ursi — namely,  arbutin , urson , and 
ericolin.  Formic  acid  was  also  found,  and  a principle  having  in  its  behavior  to  tests  some  resem- 
blance to  gallic  acid,  without,  however,  yielding  pyrogallic  acid. 

Oxydendrum  arboreum,  Dc  Candolle , s.  Andromeda  arborea,  Linn&,  sorrel  tree  or  sour  wood,  is 
about  12  M.  (40  feet)  high.  'I  he  leaves  are  deciduous,  oblong-lanceolate,  pointed,  serrulate  on 
the  margin,  and  nearly  smooth.  They  resemble  peach-leaves  in  shape  and  have  a refreshing 
acidulous  taste.  The  tree  grows  in  the  Alleghanies  and  westward  to  Arkansas, 

All  the  species  named  above  belong  to  North  America. 


1680 


UVA  URSI. 


Allied  Species. — Arctostaphylos  glauca,  Lindley.  This  shrub  or  small  tree  grows  in  dry 
and  rocky  localities  on  the  western  slope  of  the  Sierras  in  California,  where  it  is  known  as  man- 
zanita.  The  leaves  are  about  5 Cm.  (2  inches)  long,  coriaceous,  ovate-oblong,  acute  above  and 
rounded  or  obtuse  at  the  base,  entire  on  the  margin,  and  of  a pale-green  color.  It  was  examined 
by  J.  H.  Flint  (1873),  and  found  to  contain  arbutin,  9.8  per  cent,  of  tannin,  and  6 per  cent,  of 
ash.  The  leaves  are  employed  like  uva  ursi. 

Arc.  polifolia,  Kunth , A.  mucrocifera,  De  Candolle , are  employed  in  Mexico  like  uva  ursi : 
also  the  shrubs  known  as  madrona,  Arc.  tomentosa,  Douglas , and  Arbutus  xalapensis,  Kunth  ; 
this  last  species  extends  into  Western  Texas. 

Action  and  Uses. — Uva  ursi,  or  bearberry,  in  small  doses  appears  to  promote 
the  appetite  and  confine  the  bowels,  but  in  large  quantities  it  occasions  vomiting  and 
purging.  On  the  healthy  system  it  does  not  produce  any  diuretic  action,  but  in  calcu- 
lous affections  the  urine  sometimes  seems  to  augment  under  its  influence.  It  gives  to 
this  secretion  a dark  color  and  a peculiar  odor.  According  to  Lewin,  the  most  active  con- 
stituents of  uva  ursi  are  tannin  and  arbutin.  The  latter  undergoes  decomposition  in  the 
system  and  generates  hydroquinone,  which  is  antiseptic  and  antizymotic  and  retards  the 
putrefaction  of  urine  ( Therap . Gaz .,  Sept.  1883).  Some  observers  ascribe  a diuretic 
operation  to  arbutin,  but  it  is  not  clinically  or  physiologically  established.  Arbutin  cer- 
tainly does  not  represent  all  the  virtues  of  uva  ursi,  especially  in  the  diseases  for  which 
the  latter  is  most  frequently  employed. 

Uva  ursi  appears  to  have  been  first  used  by  physicians  about  the  middle  of  the  eight- 
eenth century.  It  was  then  employed  in  calculous  affections  and  in  all  chronic  disorders 
of  the  urinary  passages,  from  the  kidneys  to  the  urethra.  It  has  proved  useful  in  chronic 
pyelitis  and  cystitis , and  even  in  calculous  forms  of  those  affections,  probably  by  con- 
stringing the  mucous  membrane  of  the  kidneys  and  bladder,  diminishing  its  vascularity, 
and  thereby  obtunding  its  sensibility.  In  many  cases,  as  a consequence  of  this  mode  of 
action,  it  has  caused  the  parts  affected  to  become  more  or  less  insensible  to  the  mechan- 
ical irritation  of  the  concretions  enclosed  by  them,  and  thereby  lessened  the  impediment 
to  the  passage  of  the  urine.  In  this  manner,  no  doubt,  it  often  relieves  incontinence  of 

urine , dysury , and  strangury.  So  complete  is  the  relief  sometimes  afforded  by  it  that  a 

notion  once  gained  credit  of  its  being  a solvent  of  urinary  calculi.  But,  in  truth,  its  mode 
of  action  is  in  great  part  like  that  of  lime-water,  whose  efficacy  under  analogous  circum- 
stances is  well  known  : it  renders  the  mucous  membrane  of  the  urinary  passages  less  sus- 
ceptible to  mechanical  irritation.  The  benefits  of  the  medicine  in  most  of  the  cases 
referred  to  are  only  to  be  obtained  by  its  persistent  use.  But  in  strangury  from  blisters 
its  action  is  sometimes  very  prompt.  Uva  ursi  has  been  also  used  with  advantage  for 
chronic  bronchitis  and  atonic  diarrhoea , leucorrhoea , and  haemorrhage,  especially  uterine 
haemorrhage.  It  is  said  to  act  as  an  oxytocic.  Arbutin  is  stated,  but  upon  insufficient 

grounds,  to  be  an  efficient  diuretic  in  cardiac  dropsy , and  it  has  also  been  prescribed  with 

alleged  advantage  in  urethritis.  It  may  be  taken  in  large  doses  without  any  ill  effect. 
As  a diuretic  it  has  been  given  in  doses  of  about  Gm.  1 (gr.  xv)  per  diem,  mixed  with 
powdered  sugar ; and  also  in  a 5 per  cent,  watery  solution.  Lewin  recommends  that  a 
decoction  should  be  prepared  with  from  30  to  80  parts  of  the  leaves  to  180  parts  of 
water,  and  its  tannin  removed  with  charcoal.  But  this  removal  impairs  the  energy  of 
the  preparation.  Arbutin  may  also  be  given  with  powdered  sugar  to  the  extent  of  Gm. 
0.6-0. 8 (gr.  x-xij)  a day. 

The  dose  of  uva  ursi  in  powder  is  generally  stated  to  be  Gm.  1.30-4  (gr.  xx-lx),  but 
its  most  striking  effects  have  been  obtained  by  doses  not  greater  than  a fourth  of  those 
just  mentioned.  The  decoction,  infusion,  and  fluid  extract  of  uva  ursi  are  efficient;  the 
last  is  officinal. 

Buxus  sempervirens  was  found  by  Ringer  and  Murrell  to  produce  tetanus,  followed  by 
paralysis,  in  frogs  ( Med.-Chir . Trans.,  lix.  389).  A decoction  has  been  used  to  cure,  by 
sweating,  syphilis,  rheumatism,  gout,  intermittent  fever,  etc.  In  over-doses  it  may  act 
as  an  emeto-cathartic.  Buxine,  besides  such  effects,  is  said  to  cause  disorder  and  sedation 
of  the  nervous  system.  A decoction  of  the  leaves  applied  to  the  scalp  to  prevent  the 
hair  from  falling  out„  and  accidentally  to  the  face,  produced  an  eczematous  eruption  on 
the  latter  ( Boston  Med.  and  Burg.  Jour.,  Dec.  1889,  p.  583). 

Oxydendron  arboreum  is  said  to  be  diuretic  and  laxative.  A semi-solid  extract  in 
doses  of  Gm.  0.20-0.80  (gr.  iij-xij)  a day  is  said  to  have  removed  dropsical  swellings. 

EpiGiEA  ( trailing  arbutus')  has  been  compared  with  uva  ursi  and  buchu  ; it  possesses 
some  astringency  like  the  former,  and  has  been  used  for  the  relief  of  strangury  and  vesical 
catarrh.  A decoction  is  prepared  with  Gm.  32  (^j)  of  the  dried  leaves  and  stems  in  Gm. 
500  (Oj)  of  water,  and  given  in  the  dose  of  a wine-glassful  three  or  four  times  a day. 


VALERIANA. 


1681 


VALERIANA,  U.  S. — Valerian. 

Valerianae,  rhizoma , Br. ; Radix  valerianae , P.  G. ; Radix  Valerianae  minoris. — Valeri un- 
root, E.  ; Valeriane  officinale , F.  Cod.  ; Baldrian , G.  ; Valeriana  sylvestre , Sp. 

The  root  of  Valeriana  officinalis,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 146. 

Nat.  Ord. — Valerianaceae. 

Origin. — Valerian  is  a native  of  Europe  from  the  Mediterranean  northward,  and  of 
Northern  Asia,  and  is  cultivated  to  some  extent  in  Holland  and  England,  and  in  this 
country  in  New  England  and  New  York.  It  is  an  herbaceous  perennial,  and  grows  on 
the  banks  of  streams  and  other  wet  places,  and  likewise  in  uplands  and  dry  situations. 
It  varies  considerably  in  size  and  in  foliage,  and  several  of  the  varieties  have  been 
regarded  by  some  botanists  as  distinct  species.  The  plant  is  easily  propagated  from  short 
horizontal  runners.  It  is  .6-1.2  M.  (2  to  4 feet)  high,  branching  at  the  top,  has  oppo- 
site, clasping,  long-petiolate  and  oddly  pinnate  leaves,  with  from  four  to  ten  pairs  of  oval 
or  lance-linear,  entire  or  toothed,  sessile,  and  smooth  leaflets,  and  bears  compound  cymes 
composed  of  numerous  small  pinkish,  triandrous  flowers.  The  fruit  is  an  ovoid,  com- 
pressed akene,  crowned  by  a plumous  pappus.  The  rhizome  with  the  rootlets  attached 
constitute  the  official  portion,  and  is  collected  in  autumn. 

Description. — The  rhizome  of  valerian  is  upright,  subglobular  or  obconical,  trun- 
cate below,  and  at  the  apex  often  crowned  with  short  portions  of  the  overground  stem  or 
with  a tuft  of  short  leaf-bases,  and  indistinctly 
marked  with  closely  approximate  leaf-scars. 

It  varies  in  length  between  about  1-3  Cm.  (£ 
and  11  inches),  has  a diameter  nearly  of  the 
same  dimensions,  and  is  on  all  sides  furnished 
with  numerous  slender  nearly  cylindrical  root- 
lets. These  are  from  5-15  Cm.  (2  to  6 inches) 
long,  about  3 Mm.  (1  inch)  thick  at  the  base, 
simple,  except  near  the  tip,  where  they  are 
divided  into  numerous  fine  fibres,  which  are 
rarely  present  in  the  commercial  drug.  A few 
short  stolons,  with  long  internodes,  are  occa- 
sionally attached  to  the  rhizome.  The  rhizomes  collected  from  dry  situations  are  the 
smallest,  have  a light  yellowish-brown  color,  are  subglobular  in  shape,  have  a compara- 
tively large  number  of  rather  short,  thin,  and  light-colored  rootlets  attached,  and  are  pre- 
ferred for  medicinal  purposes  on  account  of  the  larger  proportion  of  volatile  oil  contained 
in  them.  The  rhizomes  collected  in  wet  localities  are  more  elongated,  of  larger  dimen- 
sions, more  fleshy  and  hygroscopic,  and  are  therefore  frequently  cut  longitudinally  to 
facilitate  their  drying  ; they  are  darker  in  color,  near  the  lower  end  marked  by  scars  from 
decayed  rootlets,  and  near  the  middle  and  upper  portion  have  longer,  thicker,  and  darker- 
colored  rootlets  than  the  preceding  variety,  attaining  a length  of  25-30  Cm.  (10  or  12 
inches).  The  rootlets  of  valerian  are  rather  brittle  and  break  with  a short  fracture ; the 
rhizome  is  tougher,  and  in  the  interior  rather  horny  and  of  a light  grayish-brown  color. 
It  has  a thin  bark,  which  by  a dark  cambium-line  is  separated  from  a narrow  circle  of 
whitish  woody  tissue,  and  this  encloses  a large  central  pith.  The  rootlets  have  a thick 
bark  surrounding  a slender  ligneous  cord.  Under  the  microscope  the  parenchyma  is  seen 
to  contain  cells  filled  with  starch,  extractive  matter,  and  oil  or  resin.  The  recent  rhizome 
has  a very  slight  odor,  but  on  drying:  a peculiar  somewhat  camphoraceous  and  terebinthi- 
nate  odor  appears,  which  on  long  keeping  gradually  changes  to  a strong  somewhat 
cheese-like  odor.  The  taste  of  valerian  is  at  first  sweetish,  afterward  unpleasant,  cam- 
phoraceous, and  somewhat  bitter.  The  rootlets  of  the  commercial  drug  sometimes  cover 
a large  amount  of  dirt. 

Constituents. — The  most  important  constituent  of  valerian  is  its  volatile  oil  (see 
page  1116),  which  varies  in  proportion  between  about  ? and  2 per  cent.,  the  fresh  rhi- 
zome from  dry  soil  yielding  the  larger  amount.  Cultivated  valerian  seems  to  be  less  rich 
in  volatile  oil.  Recent  valerian  on  being  distilled  with  water  yields  a distillate  which, 
according  to  Schoonbroodt  (1868),  is  neutral  or  nearly  so.  Free  valerianic  acid  does  not 
exist  in  fresh  valerian,  but  is  generated  from  the  volatile  oil  on  exposure.  The  relative 
proportions  of  the  volatile  oil  and  valerianic  acid  must  therefore  vary  with  the  age  of  the 
drug.  Aschoff  (1846)  found  in  the  root  also  malic,  acetic,  and  formic  acids.  The  con- 
stituents which  are  of  less  medicinal  importance  are  tannin,  extractive,  sugar,  starch, 
mucilage,  resin,  etc. 

106 


1682 


VALERIANA. 


Admixtures. — Although  valerian  is  readily  distinguished  from  other  medicinal  roots,  it  has 
been  sometimes  observed  sophisticated  with  poisonous  drugs  somewhat  resembling  valerian  in 
appearance,  and  from  contact  with  the  latter  having  acquired  to  some  extent  its  peculiar  odor. 
Cynanchum  Vincetoxicum  (p.  299)  was  noticed  by  Charbonnier  (1877),  Veratrum  album  (see 
below)  by  Holmes  (1877),  and  Siurn  latifolium  (p.  477)  by  Bernbeck  (1880). 

Pharmaceutical  Preparations. — Aqua  valerians.  Distil  1 part  of  bruised 
valerian  with  sufficient  water  to  obtain  4 parts  of  distillate. — F.  Cod. 

Syrupus  valerians.  Extract  of  valerian  4 Gm.,  valerian-water  100  Gm.,  sugar  180 
Gm. — F.  Cod. 

Spiritus  angelica  compositus.  Valerian  4 parts,  juniper-berries  4 parts,  angelica 
16  parts,  alcohol  75  parts,  and  water  125  parts  ; distil  100  parts,  and  dissolve  in  the  dis- 
tillate camphor  2 parts. — P.  G. 

Allied  Drugs. — Valeriana  Phu,  Linnt,  is  a tall  perennial  of  Western  Asia  and  Southern 
Europe,  and  is  occasionally  cultivated.  The  root  was  known  as  radix  Valerianae  majoris , and 
consists  of  an  oblique  rhizome  which  is  10-15  Cm.  (4  to  6 inches)  long,  about  12  Mm.  (J  inch) 
thick,  is  distantly  annulated,  of  a brown  color,  on  the  lower  side  furnished  with  numerous  yel- 
lowish rootlets,  and  has  a much  weaker  odor  and  taste  than  official  valerian. 

Val.  Mexican  a and  V.  tolucana,  De  Candolle , of  Mexico,  yield  much  valerianic  acid,  and  are 
used  like  the  official  drug. 

Nardus  spica  celtica  is  the  rhizome  of  Valeriana  celtica,  Linn#,  a native  of  the  Alps.  It  is 
thin,  about  75  Mm.  (3  inches)  long,  densely  covered  with  brown  scaly  leaf-remnants,  has  long 
simple  rootlets  on  the  lower  side,  and  possesses  a strong  odor  and  a taste  of  valerian. 

Nardus  indica,  s.  Spica  nardi,  or  true  spikenard , formerly  much  employed,  is  obtained  from 
Nardostachys  (Valeriana,  Roxburgh ) Jatamansi,  De  Candolle,  indigenous  to  India.  It  is  about 
6 Mm.  G inch)  thick,  densely  beset  with  numerous  fibrous  remnants  of  leaf-stalks,  and  has  a 
bitter  aromatic  taste  and  penetrating  odor  resembling  that  of  serpentaria. 

Patrinia  scabios^folia,  Link.  The  root  is  known  in  Japan  as  kesso , and  was  sent  to  Eng- 
land in  1879.  It  resembles  valerian  in  appearance,  odor,  and  taste,  but  has  a short  rhizome,  not 
over  8 Mm.  (£  inch)  thick,  and  this  is  densely  covered  with  dark-brown  scaly  rootlets,  which  are 
5-10  Cm.  (2  to  4 inches)  long. 

Action  and  Uses. — Valerian  is  not  a cure  for  hysteria , but  it  is  a most  valuable 
palliative  when  employed  to  avert  or  mitigate  hysterical  paroxysms  provoked  by  some 
accidental  cause.  Especially  is  this  the  case  in  females  of  weak  constitution  and  excit- 
able temperament,  and  who  are  exhausted  by  care  and  anxiety.  It  is  still  more  efficient  in 
preventing  the  development  of  those  hysteroidal  attacks  which  weak  and  morbidly  sensi- 
tive girls  and  women  are  liable  to,  and  which  consist  in  an  excessive  susceptibility  to 
impressions,  and  in  the  power  of  converting  into  real  sensations  the  suggestions  of  a dis- 
ordered fancy,  whereby  countless  subjective  perceptions  and  various  disordered  actions 
of  the  lungs,  heart,  stomach,  etc.  arise.  In  mild  cases  of  mental  derangement , especially 
when  caused  by  nervous  shock  or  strain  ; in  nervous  atony  simulating  paralysis  ; in  cases 
also  of  irregular  distribution  of  the  blood,  accompanied,  it  may  be,  with  indications  of 
cerebral  congestion,  or,  on  the  other  hand,  of  cerebral  anaemia,  of  which  the  chief  symp- 
toms are  vertigo , a sense  of  rush  of  blood  to  the  head,  or  fainting,  confusion  of  sight  and 
hearing,  etc.,  which  more  than  at  any  other  time  are  apt  to  occur  about  the  menopause, 
— valerian  is  the  most  promptly  efficient  of  all  the  palliatives  that  have  been  used.  In 
all  these  cases  valerian  exhibits  the  same  potency  as  asafetida,  musk,  and  castor,  and 
more  decidedly.  Oil  of  valerian  dissolved  in  ether  may  be  administered  by  inhalation  in 
such  attacks.  Valerian  is  one  of  the  best  remedies  for  nervous  headache , especially  when 
it  is  associated  with  ammonia,  as  in  the  ammoniated  tincture  of  valerian  or  the  popular 
elixir  of  ammonium  valerianate.  These  preparations  may  be  used  advantageously,  along 
with  a carminative  tincture,  in  cases  of  flatulence  accompanied  with  palpitation  of  the 
heart.  The  same  medicines  are  equally  efficient  in  relieving  infantile  colic , an  affection 
for  which  domestic  medicine  generally  provides  an  analogous  remedy  in  catnep. 

Valerian  is  one  of  the  innumerable  articles  that  from  time  to  time  have  been  vaunted 
as  remedies  for  epilepsy , and,  allowing  for  the  common  error  of  confounding  epilepsy  with 
epileptiform  reflex  convulsions,  and  even  with  hysteria,  there  can  be  no  doubt  that  it 
has  sometimes  cured  the  disease  in  females  and  young  children,  and  especially  when  it 
originated  in  fright  or  some  analogous  impression.  Even  in  these  cases  it  must  be  admin- 
istered in  large  doses  and  be  long  continued,  while  other  and  especially  hygienic  measures 
are  employed  to  give  permanent  strength  to  the  nervous  system. 

Valerian  is  useful  in  the  treatment  of  the  milder  forms  of  delirium  tremens , especially 
when  they  follow  surgical  operations  or  injuries,  and  in  the  ataxic  phenomena  which 
belong  to  the  typhoid  state  of  fevers  and  inflammations.  It  has  had  some  reputation 
as  a vermifuge  for  children  when  associated  with  purgatives,  such  as  jalap,  and  by 


VANILLA. 


1683 


enema  as  a remedy  for  ascarides  of  the  rectum.  It  has  also  been  used  successfully  for 
the  relief  of  dysmenorrhoea  and  in  polyuria  or  diabetes  insipidus.  Bouchard,  however, 
claims  that  when  the  urine  contains  an  excess  of  urea  (azoturia)  or  of  sugar  (glycosuria), 
valerian  diminishes  the  amount  of  solids  discharged  and  thus  acts  as  a conservator  of 
tissue  and  of  force.  Butte,  on  the  other  hand,  maintains  that  valerian  causes  the 
destruction  of  the  glucose  in  the  blood  ( Univers . Med.  Mag .,  iii.  498). 

Valerian  may  be  prescribed  in  powder  in  doses  of  Gm.  2-6  (gr.  xxx-xc),  repeated 
three  or  four  times  a day.  Its  disagreeable  taste  may  be  masked  by  the  addition  of  an 
aromatic  powder.  Of  its  several  preparations,  the  infusion  and  the  fluid  extract  are  to 
be  preferred  ; next  to  these  ranks  the  oil.  The  tincture,  however,  is  officinal,  and  so  is  the 
ammoniated  tincture,  which  is  decidedly  preferable  to  either  the  simple  tincture  or  the 
fluid  extract. 

Caffeine  Valerianate  (so  called)  was  tried  by  Paret  (1775)  in  hysteria  to  moder- 
ate nervous  vomiting , and  in  some  cases  with  success,  the  medicine  appearing  to  act  as  a 
general  stimulant ; in  the  vomiting  of  phthisis  it  was  useless,  but  in  whooping  cough  it 
decidedly  lessened  the  paroxysms.  It  was  given  in  pills,  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.10 
(gr.  ij)  three  times  a day. 

VANILLA,  77.  S. — Vanilla. 

Fructus  (s.  Siliqua ) vamllse,  P.  G. — Vanille,  Fr.  Cod.,  G. ; Vainilla , Sp. 

The  prepared  unripe  fruit  of  Vanilla  planifolia,  Andrews.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med. 
Plants , 272. 

Nat.  Ord. — Orchidaceae. 

Origin. — The  name  “ vanilla  ” is  derived  from  the  Spanish  baynilla , the  diminutive 
of  bayna:  a pod.  The  plant  is  indigenous  to  Eastern  Mexico,  where  it  grows  in  hot,  moist 
woods,  and  is  cultivated  by  fastening  shoots  to  trees  just  above  the  ground,  where  they 
soon  strike  root,  begin  to  produce  fruits  in  about  three  years,  and  continue  to  bear 
for  about  thirty  years.  The  plant  has  a long  fleshy  stem,  supporting  itself  by  simple 
aerial  rootlets,  alternate  sessile,  fleshy,  oval-lanceolate  leaves,  and  axillary  spikes  of  large 
greenish-white  flowers,  with  a depressed  recurved  and  crenate  lip,  and  with  an  elongated, 
fleshy,  cylindrical  ovary.  The  cultivated  plant  is  Schiede’s  Vanilla  sativa.  The  wild- 
growing plant  (Schiede’s  V.  sylvestris)  is  usually  regarded  as  a mere  variety  of  the 
former,  and  yields  a smaller  and  less  aromatic  fruit,  known  in  Mexico  as  baynilla  cima- 
rona.  The  vanilla-plant  has  been  introduced  into  some  of  the  West  Indian  islands,  into 
Bourbon,  Madagascar,  and  several  East  Indian  islands.  In  its  native  country  it  is  prob- 
ably fertilized  through  the  agency  of  insects ; in  other  countries  artificial  fertilization  is 
required. 

Collection. — The  fruit  is  collected  before  it  is  ripe,  when  the  green  color  begins  to 
change.  In  order  to  develop  its  aroma  and  to  prevent  its  dehiscence,  the  unripe  fruit  is 
partly  sun-dried  or  exposed  to  artificial  heat,  and  then  wrapped  in  blankets  until  it  begins 
to  sweat,  when  the  exposure  and  subsequent  wrapping  up  are  repeated.  Steeping  in  hot 
water  is  said  to  be  in  some  places  resorted  to  previous  to  drying.  Some  of  the  con- 
stituents are  supposed  to  undergo  a kind  of  fermentation,  through  which  the  odorous 
principle  is  developed.  After  the  fruits  have  obtained  the  proper  dark  color,  agreeable 
aroma,  and  sufficient  dryness,  they  are  tied  into  bundles  of  fifty,  weighing  a little  over 
8 ounces,  and  these  are  sometimes  wrapped  in  tin-foil  and  packed  in  tin  boxes. 

Properties. — The  cultivated  vanilla-fruit  is  known  in  Mexico  as  baynilla  corriente , 
and  is  further  distinguished  and  assorted  according  to  its  size  and  the  thickness  of  its 
integuments.  The  finest  quality  attains  a length  of  30  Cm.  (12  inches),  has  a thin  peri- 
carp, and  is  rarely  seen  in  our  market.  The  varieties  usually  met  with  are  from  15—25 
Cm.  (6  to  10  inches)  long,  about  8 Mm.  (£  inch)  thick,  and  somewhat  triangular,  but 
flattened.  Vanilla  is  of  a dark-brown  color,  glossy,  longitudinally  wrinkled,  somewhat 
narrowed  at  both  ends,  bent  or  hooked  at  the  base,  and  rather  oblique  at  the  apex.  The 
surface  is  frequently  marked  with  a few  circular  or  oblong  warts,  and  some  varieties  are 
more  or  less  covered  with  an  efflorescence  of  acicular  crystals.  The  integuments  of  the 
fruit  are  leathery,  of  a brown  color ; the  interior  is  filled  with  a blackish-brown  fragrant 
pulp,  in  which  very  numerous  minute  black  flattish-ovate  seeds  are  imbedded.  The  fruit 
is  one-celled,  and  has  three  parietal  placentae,  each  projecting  with  four  curved  branches 
into  the  interior.  The  parenchyma  of  the  integuments  contains  extractive,  oil  drops,  and 
crystals  of  vanillin  and  calcium  oxalate,  and  an  irregular  circle  of  about  twenty  delicate 
fibro-vascular  bundles. 


1684 


VANILLA. 


Varieties. — Mexican  vanilla  is  regarded  as  the  best.  Bourbon  vanilla  resembles  it, 
and  is  usually  covered  with  crystals,  but  has  an  odor  somewhat  suggesting  that  of  tonka. 
Costa  Bica  vanilla  is  less  attenuated  at  the  ends,  and  has  hardly  the  fine  flavor  of  the 
Mexican  variety.  Vanilla  from  the  Seychelles  is  considerably  thinner.  A vanilla  is 
produced  in  Venezuela  which  is  7-15  Cm.  (3  to  6 inches)  long,  rather  thick,  and  of  a 
decided  tonka  flavor.  Van.  microcarpa,  Karsten , a native  of  Venezuela,  has  a very  aro- 
matic fruit,  about  75  Mm.  (3  inches)  long  and  5 Mm.  (A-  inch)  broad.  In  Brazil,  Peru, 
and  other  parts  of  South  America  a broad  and  fleshy  vanilla  is  obtained  which  is  15-20 
Cm.  (6  to  8 inches)  long,  about  12  Mm.  (J  inch)  wide,  and  of  an  inferior  vanilla  odor; 
it  is  probably  the  fruit  of  Vanilla  pompona,  Schiede.  It  is  not  unlikely  that  several  other 
species  besides  those  mentioned  above  yield  vanilla,  but  the  different  species  are  very 
imperfectly  known.  Vanilla  guianensis,  Splitberger , indigenous  to  the  north-eastern  por- 
tion of  South  America,  may  yield  some  of  the  South  American  vanilla.  Vanilla  pal- 
marum,  Lindlei /,  a native  of  Bahia,  has  a thick  cylindrical  not  very  fragrant  fruit  about 
5 Cm.  (2  inches)  long.  Vanilla  aromatica,  Swartz , is  indigenous  to  South  America,  but 
not  to  Mexico,  and  its  fruit  is  said  to  be  not  aromatic. 

Constituents. — According  to  the  analysis  of  Bucholz  (1828),  vanilla  contains  about 
11  per  cent,  of  fixed  oil,  2.3  per  cent,  of  soft  resin,  6 per  cent,  of  sugar,  11  per  cent,  of 
gum,  and  considerable  extractive  matter.  Leutner  (1872)  obtained  4 per  cent,  of  resin, 
6.6  gum,  10  sugar,  4.7  per  cent,  of  ash,  and,  besides  a little  wax  and  tannin,  also  oxalic 
and  other  acids.  The  odor  of  vanilla  is  not  due  to  a volatile  oil.  The  crystalline 
efflorescence  was  for  a long  time  regarded  as  identical  with  either  benzoic  or  cinnamic 
acid,  but  Bley  (1831)  proved  it  to  be  distinct  from  both,  and  Gobley  (1858)  established 
its  difference  from  coumarin  and  named  it  vanillin.  It  is  obtained  from  the  alcoholic 
extract  of  vanilla  by  diffusing  it  in  a little  water,  agitating  with  ether,  and  evaporating 
the  ethereal  liquid ; the  brown  odorous  residue  yields  to  boiling  water  vanillin,  which  is 
purified  by  recrystallization  and  treatment  with  animal  charcoal.  Vanillin  crystallizes  in 
hard,  colorless,  four-sided  prisms ; has  the  odor  of  vanilla  and  a pungent,  warm  taste, 
melts  near  80°  C.  (176°  F.)  ; sublimes  when  carefully  heated  ; has  a feeble  acid  reaction, 
and  is  freely  soluble  in  boiling  water,  in  alcohol,  ether,  fats,  and  volatile  oils.  It  does 
not  decompose  alkaline  carbonates,  but  dissolves  in  caustic  alkalies,  and  is  precipitated 
unaltered  from  the  solutions  on  the  addition  of  an  acid  ; its  aqueous  solution  is  not  affected 
by  salts  of  tin,  mercury,  and  silver,  yields  a pale-yellowish  precipitate  with  basic  lead 
acetate,  and  strikes  a dark-violet  color  with  ferric  chloride.  It  dissolves  in  sulphuric  acid 
with  a yellow  color,  and  by  nitric  acid  is  oxidized  to  oxalic  acid,  On  account  of  its  feeble 
acid  properties  Stokkebye  (1864)  proposed  to  name  it  vanillic  acid  (see  below).  Carles 
(1870)  found  its  formula  to  be  C8H803,  and  this  was  corroborated  by  Tiemann  and  Haar- 
mann  (1874—78),  who  prepared  vanillin  artificially  from  coniferin , C16H2208,  a compound 
contained  in  the  sap  of  coniferous  trees ; this  on  being  treated  with  emulsin  is  spilt  into 
sugar  and  coniferyl  alcohol , Ci0Hi2O3,  which  on  being  oxidized  with  a mixture  of  sulphuric 
acid  and  potassium  dichromate,  like  coniferin  itself,  yields  vanillin.  Vanillin  was  recognized 
as  the  aldehyde  of  methyl-protocatechuic  acid,  C6H3.OCH3.OH.CHO  ; by  careful  oxidation 
this  is  converted  into  the  nearly  inodorous  vanillic  acid , C6H3.OCH3.OH.COOH.  The 
same  authors  have  further  shown  the  relation  of  these  interesting  principles  to  creosol, 
eugenol,  ferulaic  acid,  caffeic  acid,  and  other  compounds,  and  devised  a process  for  the 
artificial  preparation  of  vanillin  from  oil  of  cloves,  and  propose  (1875)  to  estimate  the 
amount  of  vanillin  by  completely  exhausting  not  less  than  30  Gm.  of  cut  vanilla  with 
ether,  concentrating  the  ethereal  tincture,  agitating  the  liquid  repeatedly  with  solution 
of  sodium  bisulphite,  decomposing  the  mixed  aqueous  liquids  with  dilute  sulphuric 
acid,  and  dissolving  the  liberated  vanillin  by  agitation  with  ether.  Mexican  vanilla 
yielded  1.3-1. 7,  Java  vanilla  1.6—2.75,  and  Bourbon  vanilla  0.75—2.9  per  cent,  of  pure 
vanillin : the  last  two  varieties  were  found  to  contain,  in  addition,  an  oily  matter  having 
a disagreeable  odor;  and  the  fruit  of  Van.  pompona,  which  yielded  .4-. 7 per  cent,  of  va- 
nillin, was  observed  to  contain  another  compound,  probably  benzaldehyde , which  modifies  the 
odor  of  the  former. 

The  poisonous  effects  repeatedly  observed  to  be  due  to  the  use  of  vanilla  as  a flavor 
for  ices  have  been  referred  by  Schroff,  in  the  absence  of  metallic  poisons,  to  the  presence 
of  cardol,  resulting  from  the  alleged  employment  of  the  fixed  oil  of  the  cashew-nut  (see 
p.  207)  for  improving  the  appearance  of  vanilla. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Vanilla  is  employed  in  perfumery. 

Pulvis  VANiLLiE  cum  saccharo,  F.  Cod .,  Vanilla  saccharata.  1 part  of  finely- 
cut  vanilla  and  9 parts  of  sugar  are  triturated  together  until  a grayish-white  uniform 


VAPOBES.— VAPOR  CREOSOTI. 


1685 


powder  is  obtained,  or  2 parts  of  vanillin  dissolved  in  alcoliol  are  mixed  with  98  parts 
of  sugar. 

Syrupus  vanilla.  Mix  simple  syrup  with  sufficient  tincture  of  vanilla  until  the 
desired  flavor  is  obtained. 

Action  and  Uses. — Workmen  engaged  in  handling  vanilla-beans  suffer  from  itching 
of  the  hands  and  face ; the  skin  is  covered  with  a pruriginous  eruption,  and  swells,  red- 
dens, and  desquamates.  Others  are  affected  with  dizziness,  weariness,  and  muscular  pains. 
The  eruption  is  produced  by  an  acarus,  which  irritates  without  penetrating  the  skin  (Jour. 
Amer.  Med.  Assoc.,  i.  621).  In  Mexico,  its  native  country,  the  Spanish  conquerors  found 
vanilla  in  common  use  for  flavoring  chocolate,  and  for  this  purpose  it  continues  to  be  exten- 
sively used.  Very  probably  it  promotes  the  digestion  of  this  aliment,  as  it  does  that  of  many 
other  fatty  and  farinaceous  articles  of  food,  and  therefore  may  be  classed  with  the  aro- 
matics. In  its  action  it  has  some  analogy  with  balsam  of  Peru.  Like  the  aromatics 
generally,  aphrodisiac  qualities  are  attributed  to  it.  Cases  of  poisoning  by  ice-cream 
flavored  with  vanilla  seem  to  have  been  caused  by  fermentative  changes  in  the  cream  or 
milk  employed.  In  medicine  vanilla  is  rarely  employed  alone,  but  it  may  be  prescribed 
in  powder  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.30-2  (gr.  v-xxx),  mixed  with  sugar.  A syrup  made  with 
it  and  the  officinal  tincture  form  agreeable  flavoring  ingredients  of  mixtures.  It  may  be 
added  also  to  troches  for  a similar  purpose,  as  it  is  in  the  officinal  troches  of  iron. 


V AP  ORE  S . — Inhalations. 

These  are  mixtures,  consisting  of  water  with  a volatile  substance,  which  are  perhaps 
never  made  by  the  apothecary,  and  appear  to  be  better  adapted  for  extemporaneous  pre- 
scription. The  vapores , as  originally  employed  in  medicine,  are  external  applications. 

VAPOR  AOIDI  HYDROCYANICI,  Br. — Inhalation  of  Hydrocyanic 

Acid. 

Take  of  Diluted  Hydrocyanic  Acid  10  to  15  minims;  Water  (cold)  1 fluidraclim.  Mix 
in  a suitable  apparatus,  and  let  the  vapor  that  arises  be  inhaled. — Br. 

Uses. — The  inhalation  of  hydrocyanic  acid  ” is  too  dangerous  a remedy  to  be  recom- 
mended under  any  circumstances.  The  difficulty,  if  not  impossibility,  of  determining  the 
exact  strength  of  the  solution,  the  various  degrees  of  susceptibility  to  its  action,  and  the 
promptly  fatal  effects  of  an  overdose  inhaled,  should  condemn  it  as  a medicine. 

VAPOR  CHL.ORI,  Br. — Inhalation  of  Chlorine. 

Take  of  Chlorinated  Lime  2 ounces  ; Water  (cold)  a sufficiency.  Put  the  powder  into 
a suitable  apparatus,  moisten  it  with  the  water,  and  let  the  vapor  that  arises  be  inhaled. 
—Br. 

Uses. — This  preparation  is  a convenient  means  of’  obtaining  chlorine  for  inhalation, 
but  the  necessity  of  making  it  officinal  by  prescribing  the  exact  amount  of  chlorinated 
lime  to  be  used  is  the  reverse  of  apparent. 

VAPOR  CONING,  Br. — Inhalation  of  Conine. 

Take  of  Juice  of  Hemlock  1 fluidounce ; Solution  of  Potash  1 fluidrachm  ; Distilled 
Water  1 fluidounce.  Mix.  Put  20  minims  of  mixture  on  a sponge  in  a suitable  appara- 
tus, so  that  the  vapor  of  hot  water  passing  over  it  may  be  inhaled. — Br. 

The  potassa  is  added  for  the  purpose  of  liberating  the  coniine  contained  in  the  juice. 

Uses. — The  proportion  of  the  extract  of  conium  directed  for  this  preparation,  must 
vary  according  to  the  strength  of  the  extract  used;  which,  being  very  uncertain,  the 
“ inhalation  ” cannot  be  of  uniform  power. 

VAPOR  CREOSOTI,  Br. — Inhalation  of  Creosote. 

Take  of  Creosote  12  minims;  Boiling  Water  8 fluidounces.  Mix  the  creosote  and 
water  in  an  apparatus  so  arranged  that  air  may  be  made  to  pass  through  the  solution, 
and  may  afterward  be  inhaled. — Br. 

Uses. — This  “ inhalation  ” appears  to  be  a very  superfluous  officinal  preparation.  The 
proportion  of  creosote  used  should  vary  with  the  condition  it  is  intended  to  remedy. 


1686 


VAPOR  IODL—  VERATRINA. 


VAPOR  IODI,  Br. — Inhalation  of  Iodine. 

Take  of  Tincture  of  Iodine  1 fluidrachm  ; Water  1 fluidounce.  Mix  in  a suitable  appa- 
ratus, and,  having  applied  a gentle  heat,  let  the  vapor  that  arises  be  inhaled. — Br. 

Uses. — According  to  our  experience,  the  proportion  of  tincture  of  iodine  in  this 
“ inhalation  ” is  entirely  too  large  for  ordinary  use  if  the  iodine  is  vaporized  rapidly. 
It  should  be  left  to  the  judgment  of  those  who  are  skilful  enough  to  use  such  a prepara- 
tion at  all.  Conine,  creosote,  and  iodine  are  more  efficaciously  used  by  inhalation  in  atomized 
solutions. 

VAPOR  OL.EI  PINI  SYLVESTRIS,  2*r.— Inhalation  of  Fir- wool  Oil. 

Take  of  Fir-wool  Oil  40  minims  ; Light  Magnesium  Carbonate  20  grains ; Water  a suf- 
ficiency. Rub  the  fir-wool  oil  with  the  magnesium  carbonate,  and  gradually  add  sufficient 
water  to  produce  1 fluidounce.  Put  1 fluidrachm  of  this  mixture  with  10  ounces  of  boil- 
ing water  into  an  apparatus  so  arranged  that  air  may  be  made  to  pass  through  the  solution 
and  may  afterward  be  inhaled. — Br. 

Uses. — -As  an  inhalation  in  chronic  affections  of  the  air-passages. 

VERATRINA,  U.  S.9  Br.,  F.  Corf. -Veratrine. 

Ver  atria,  Br. ; Veratrinum , P.  G. — Veratrine , Fr. ; Veratrin , G. 

Nat.  Ord. — Liliaceae. 

A mixture  of  alkaloids  obtained  from  the  seed  of  Asagraea  officinalis  ( Schlechtendal 
and  Chamisso ),  Bindley. 

Origin. — The  mixture  of  alkaloids  which  is  recognized  by  the  pharmacopoeias  under 
the  above  names  was  first  prepared  by  Meissner  (1819)  from  sabadilla  and  named  saba- 
dilline.  Pelletier  and  Caventou  (1819)  prepared  similar  substances  from  sabadilla  and 
white  veratrum,  and  called  them  veratrine , which  name  has  since  been  applied  to  the 
product  from  the  former  source  only  (see  also  Veratrum  Album);  and  this  was  known 
in  an  amorphous  condition,  and  supposed  to  be  uncrystallizable  until  Merck  (1855) 
showed  that  a portion  of  it  could  be  crystallized.  Sabadilla-seeds  are  used  for  preparing 
veratrine ; Schroff  (1863),  however,  has  shown  that  the  capsules  are  very  poisonous  and 
probably  contain  the  same  alkaloids. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Cevadilla  2 pounds;  Distilled  Water,  Rectified  Spirit,  Solu- 
tion of  Ammonia,  Hydrochloric  Acid,  each  a sufficiency  ; Purified  Animal  Charcoal  60 
grains.  Macerate  the  cevadilla  with  half  its  weight  of  boiling  distilled  water  in  a 
covered  vess’el  for  twenty-four  hours.  Remove  the  cevadilla,  squeeze  it,  and  dry  it 
thoroughly  with  a gentle  heat.  Beat  it  now  in  a mortar,  and  separate  the  seeds  from  the 
capsules  by  brisk  agitation  in  a deep,  narrow  vessel  or  by  winnowing  it  gently  on  a table 
with  a sheet  of  paper.  Grind  the  seeds  in  a coffee-mill  and  form  them  into  a thick  paste 
with  rectified  spirit.  Pack  this  firmly  in  a percolator,  and  pass  rectified  spirit  through  it 
till  the  spirit  ceases  to  be  colored.  Concentrate  the  spirituous  solution  by  distillation  so 
long  as  no  deposit  forms,  and  pour  the  residue,  while  hot,  into  twelve  times  its  volume  of 
cold  distilled  water.  Filter  through  calico,  and  wash  the  residue  on  the  filter  with  dis- 
tilled water  till  the  fluid  ceases  to  precipitate  with  ammonia.  To  the  united  filtered  liquids 
add  the  ammonia  in  slight  excess ; let  the  precipitate  completely  subside,  pour  ofl  the 
supernatant  fluid,  collect  the  precipitate  on  a filter,  and  wash  it  with  distilled  water  till 
the  fluid  passes  colorless.  Diffuse  the  moist  precipitate  through  12  fluidounces  of  dis- 
tilled water,  and  add  gradually,  with  diligent  stirring,  sufficient  hydrochloric  acid  to  make 
the  fluid  feebly  but  persistently  acid.  Then  add  the  animal  charcoal,  digest  at  a gentle 
heat  for  twenty  minutes,  filter,  and  allow  the  liquid  to  cool.  Add  ammonia  in  slight 
excess,  and  when  the  precipitate  has  completely  subsided  pour  off  the  supernatant  liquid, 
collect  the  precipitate  on  a filter,  and  wash  it  with  cold  distilled  water  till  the  washings 
cease  to  be  affected  by  silver  nitrate  acidulated  with  nitric  acid.  Lastly,  dry  the  pre- 
cipitate first  by  imbibition  with  filtering-paper,  and  then  by  the  application  of  a gentle 
heat. — Br. 

Alcohol  extracts  from  sabadilla-seeds  veratrine  in  its  natural  combination  with  veratric 
acid.  On  evaporating  the  alcohol,  diluting  the  syrupy  liquid  with  water,  and  filtering 
from  the  resin,  the  liquid  contains  veratrine  veratrate,  and  this  salt  is  decomposed  by 
ammonia  or  potassa ; the  alkaloid  thus  isolated  requires  to  be  purified  by  washing  with 
water,  dissolving  in  a dilute  acid,  and  freeing  from  coloring  matter  by  animal  charcoal ; 
ammonia  will  then  precipitate  veratrine  as  a white  powder. 


VERATRINA. 


1687 


The  concentrated  alcoholic  extract  may  also  be  deprived  of  its  alkaloidal  constituents 
by  boiling  with  acidulated  water,  and  the  acid  solution  decomposed  by  magnesia,  the 
excess  of  which  remains  with  the  liberated  alkaloids ; the  latter  are  taken  up  by  alcohol 
combined  with  sulphuric  acid,  the  alcohol  evaporated,  the  remaining  aqueous  solution 
decolorized  by  animal  charcoal,  and  the  veratrine  precipitated  by  ammonia.  This  was  the 
process  of  the  U.  S.  P.  1870. 

The  outlines  of  the  process  of  the  French  Codex  are  as  follows : Exhaust  with  alcohol 
acidulated  with  sulphuric  acid,  add  slaked  lime  to  the  tincture  to  liberate  the  alkaloids, 
filter  from  the  calcium  compounds,  distil  off  the  alcohol,  dissolve  the  residue  in  dilute  sul- 
phuric acid,  decolorize  by  means  of  animal  charcoal,  precipitate  by  ammonia,  again  dis- 
solve in  alcohol,  and  repeat  the  treatment  as  before ; finally,  dissolve  the  washed  and 
dried  veratrine  in  ether,  filter,  and  evaporate  spontaneously. 

Several  other  processes  have  been  recommended  for  the  preparation  of  veratrine,  in 
which  advantage  is  taken  of  its  ready  solubility  in  acidulated  water.  Delondre  (1855) 
exhausts  the  powdered  seeds  by  percolation  with  water  acidulated  with  hydrochloric  acid, 
precipitates  with  potassa,  and  exhausts  the  washed  and  dried  precipitate  with  ether,  on 
the  evaporation  of  which  the  alkaloid  is  left  behind.  Merck’s  process  is  somewhat  sim- 
ilar : powdered  sabadilla  is  boiled  with  very  dilute  hydrochloric  acid,  the  solution  concen- 
trated to  a syrupy  consistence,  and  further  acidulated  with  hydrochloric  acid  as  long  as  a 
precipitate  of  veratric  acid  appears.  The  filtrate  is  precipitated  with  lime  ; the  precipi- 
tate is  collected  and  exhausted  with  alcohol ; the  alcohol  is  distilled  oft’,  and  the  residue 
dissolved  in  dilute  acetic  acid.  On  the  addition  of  ammonia,  veratrine  is  precipitated ; it 
is  obtained  as  a crystalline  powder  by  dissolving  it  in  ether  and  evaporating,  as  directed 
by  the  French  Codex. 

Properties. — As  obtained  by  the  first  process,  veratrine  is  a white  or  whitish  amor- 
phous powder,  permanent  in  the  air,  without  odor,  powerfully  sternutatory,  and  very  irri- 
tating to  the  nostrils,  and  has  a persistently  acrid  taste,  “ leaving  a sensation  of  tingling 
and  numbness  on  the  tongue  ” (U.  S.').  It  imparts  to  water  an  acrid  taste,  but  requires 
about  1000  parts  of  boiling  water  for  solution,  the  excess  of  the  alkaloid  cohering  in 
lumps  without  melting.  It  has  an  alkaline  reaction  to  test-paper,  neutralizes  acids,  and 
when  heated  melts,  and  afterward  is  decomposed,  forming  a spongy  charcoal,  and  is  finally 
dissipated  without  leaving  any  residue.  Veratrine  is  soluble  in  3 parts  of  alcohol  and 
dissolves  in  about  6 parts  of  ether  (Delondre),  in  1.6  (Pettenkofer)  or  8.6  (Schlimpert), 
or  2 ( U.  S.)  parts  of  chloroform  ; in  96  parts  of  glycerin  (Cap  and  Garot)  and  56  parts 
of  olive  oil  (Pettenkofer).  Nitric  acid  imparts  to  veratrine  a yellow  color  or  forms  a red- 
dish-yellow solution.  Its  solution  in  concentrated  hydrochloric  acid  acquires  by  heat  a 
deep-red  color,  which  remains  unaltered  for  several  weeks  (Trapp,  1862).  Sulphuric  acid 
dissolves  veratrine  with  a yellow  color,  changing  in  a few  minutes  to  orange-red,  then  to 
blood-red,  in  about  thirty  minutes  to  carmine-red,  and  subsequently  to  violet  color 
(Henry).  Masing  (1869)  observed  that  .00017  Gm.  of  veratrine  may  be  detected  with 
the  last  two  tests,  but  that  the  reaction  with  hydrochloric  acid  is  less  interfered  with  by 
the  presence  of  extractive  matter.  The  fresh  solution  of  veratrine  in  sulphuric  acid 
becomes  at  once  purple-colored  on  the  addition  of  bromine-water.  “ On  triturating  1 
part  of  veratrine  with  100  parts  of  sulphuric  acid,  the  solution  shows  a green-yellow 
fluorescence,  the  color  gradually  changing  to  red  ” (P.  G .).  The  U.  S.  P.  directs  for 
this  test  no  definite  quantity  of  sulphuric  acid,  but  states  that  the  fluorescence  first 
observed  becomes  more  intense  oh  adding  more  sulphuric  acid.  On  sprinkling  pow- 
dered sugar  upon  a thin  layer  of  the  solution  of  veratrine  in  sulphuric  acid,  a yellow 
color  is  produced,  changing  to  green  and  blue,  and  becoming  paler  after  an  hour 
(Weppen,  1874). 

Tests. — The  tests  just  described  establish  the  identity  of  veratrine.  On  being  ignited 
upon  platinum-foil  no  residue  should  be  left. 

Composition. — The  formula  C.^H^N.^Og  is  that  ascertained  by  Merck  for  the  crys- 
talline alkaloid  in  large  colorless,  rhombic  prisms,  which  on  exposure  become  white, 
opaque,  and  friable,  and  lose  their  shape  in  boiling  water  without  melting  or  dissolving. 
The  crystals  are  obtained  by  dissolving  medicinal  veratrine  in  alcohol,  adding  water  until 
a permanent  precipitate  begins  to  appear,  and  evaporating  spontaneously  ; the  residue 
will  consist  of  crystals  imbedded  in  a brown  amorphous,  resin-like  mass,  which  is  removed 
by  cold  alcohol,  after  which  the  crystals  may  be  purified  by  recrystallizing  from  strong 
alcohol.  Weigelin  (1871)  ascertained  that  veratrine  exists  in  two  distinct  modifications, 
one  of  which  is  soluble  in  water,  and  by  heating  the  solution  is  converted  into  the  insolu- 
ble variety,  which  has  a resinous  appearance ; analysis  led  to  the  composition  C52Hg602N15. 


1688 


VERA  TRINA. 


According  to  E.  Schmidt  (1877),  commercial  veratrine  -contains  three  distinct  modifica- 
tions— namely,  a crystalline  base  soluble  in  water,  and  two  amorphous  bases,  one  of  which 
is  soluble,  the  other  insoluble,  in  water.  The  crystalline  base  predominates,  and  is 
regarded  by  Schmidt  as  veratrine  proper ; he  gives  it  the  formula  C32H50NO9 ; its  platino- 
chloride  was  found  to  be  easily  soluble  in  alcohol,  less  soluble  in  water,  and  insoluble  in 
ether.  The  amorphous  modifications  appear  to  have  the  same  formula,  which  differs  from 
that  given  by  Merck  chiefly  in  the  amount  of  nitrogen. 

On  treating  medicinal  veratrine  with  ether,  a residue  is  left  from  which  Couerbe  (1834) 
isolated  a second  crystallizable  alkaloid,  sabadilline , for  which  Weigelin  gives  the  formula 
C41H66N2013.  It  is  not  sternutatory,  and  dissolves  more  or  less  freely  in  water,  benzene, 
petroleum  benzin,  amylic  alcohol,  and  chloroform  ; neutralizes  the  acids  completely,  but 
yields  amorphous  gum-like  salts  with  sulphuric  and  hydrochloric  acid,  which  are  not  pre- 
cipitated by  alkalies  or  their  carbonates,  and  yield  but  slight  precipitates  with  phospho- 
tungstic  acid  and  potassio-cadmium  iodide.  That  portion  of  medicinal  veratrine  which  is 
soluble  in  ether  yields  to  hot  water,  in  which  veratrine  is  insoluble,  a third  alkaloid,  which 
Weigelin  named  sabatrine , and  found  to  have  the  composition  C5iH86N2017.  It  is  likewise 
soluble  in  benzene,  petroleum  benzin,  amylic  alcohol,  and  chloroform,  is  amorphous  and 
yields  amorphous  salts,  which  are  precipitated  by  hot  potassium  hydroxide  and  carbonate  if 
not  added  in  excess. 

The  most  recent  investigation  on  the  sabadilla  alkaloids  was  made  by  C.  R.  A.  Wright 
and  A.  P.  Luff  (1878),  who  were  unable  to  find  sabadilline.  They  regard  sabatrine  as  an 
alteration-product.  They  retain  the  name  veratrine  for  the  amorphous  alkaloid  of  medi- 
cinal veratrine,  and  deny  the  existence  of  isomeric  modifications  ; they  give  it  the  formula 
C37H53NOn,  and  state  that  on  saponification  it  splits  up  into  veratric  acid  and  a new  base, 
verine , Merck’s  crystallizable  base  is  named  by  them  cevadine , and  is  stated 

to  have  the  composition  C32H49N09,  and,  on  saponification,  to  be  resolved  into  anew  base, 
cevi.ne , C27H43N08,  and  the  cevadic  acid  of  Pelletier  and  Caventou,  which  is  methyl-cro- 
tonic  acid,  C5H802.  The  third  alkaloid,  cevadilline , C34H53N08,  is  insoluble  in  ether,  is 
probably  identical  with  sabadilline,  but  separates  in  an  amorphous  condition  from  benzene, 
and  on  saponification  yields  methyl-crotonic  acid  and  the  base  cevilline.  20  pounds  of 
sabadilla-seeds  yielded  between  60  and  70  Om.  of  mixed  alkaloids. 

It  will  be  observed  that  medicinal  veratrine  is  a mixture  of  two  or  three  alkaloids 
naturally  existing  in  sabadilla,  and  of  several  derivatives  from  these  alkaloids. 

Action  and  Uses. — Veratrine  has  a bitter  and  acrid  taste,  and  the  least  portion  of 
it  placed  upon  the  tongue  produces  a peculiar  and  persistent  numbness  and  tingling,  witli 
irritation  of  the  throat  and  salivation.  The  minutest  quantity  of  it  introduced  into  the 
nostrils,  and  even  the  casual  approach  of  a vial  containing  it  to  the  nose,  occasion  pro- 
tracted irritation  and  sneezing,  and  sometimes  coughing.  Applied  in  alcoholic  solution 
or  in  an  ointment  to  the  sound  skin,  it  produces  a slight  prickling  sensation,  and  upon 
very  delicate  portions  of  the  integument  a pain  compared  to  that  which  might  be  occa- 
sioned by  its  puncture  with  hot  needles.  The  pain,  however,  is  transient,  and  is  followed 
by  a sense  of  coolness  and  numbness.  If  the  preparation  is  strong  and  is  applied  with 
friction,  an  eruption  of  vesicles  may  follow.  If  well  rubbed  in,  particularly  upon  the  face, 
slight  twitching  of  the  muscles  is  sometimes  observed,  and,  more  rarely,  formication, 
which  extends  to  remote  parts  of  the  body.  Applied  to  the  denuded  skin  or  injected 
hypodermically,  it  causes  severe  pain,  muscular  twitching,  and  the  other  ordinary  effects 
of  its  internal  administration.  These  effects  vary  with  its  dose.  Gm.  0.001-0.003  (gr. 
g^Q- — Tjrjy)  occasion  tingling  which  begins  in  the  fingers  and  toes,  and  thence  extends  to  the 
whole  body,  followed  by  a sense  of  numbness  in  the  same  parts  and  more  or  less  lower- 
ing of  the  pulse.  If  the  usual  limit  of  medicinal  doses  is  exceeded,  and  Gm.  0.003- 
0.006  (gr.  Jg— jL)  of  the  alkaloid  or  of  its  acetate  is  taken,  there  may  occur  great  faint- 
ness and  pallor  ; increased  frequency,  irregularity,  and  weakness  of  the  pulse  ; nausea  and 
vomiting,  usually  of  bilious  liquids  ; diarrhoea,  sometimes  with  bloody  stools  ; cold  sweat- 
ing and  muscular  twitching  ; and  aching  along  the  spine.  If  the  dose  is  repeated  at  inter- 
vals, the  gastro-intestinal  symptoms  subside,  but  the  pulse  falls  considerably  below  the 
normal  rate.  There  is  also  a good  deal  of  irritation  and  constriction  of  the  fauces,  with 
secretion  of  mucus. 

A woman  who  swallowed  about  Gm.  0.20  (3  grains)  of  veratrine  in  a liniment  contain  • 
ing  chloric  ether  and  opium  was  affected  with  giddiness,  faintness,  nausea,  thirst,  diar- 
rhoea, tenesmus,  and  constriction  of  the  abdomen;  the  tongue  was  swollen,  the  mouth 
and  throat  sore,  the  pupils  contracted,  the  breathing  hurried,  the  pulse  small  and  quick, 
the  action  of  the  heart  feeble.  There  was  extreme  itching  of  the  skin  which  lasted  for 


VERA  TRIE  A. 


1689 


several  days,  a tingling  which  did  not  cease  for  two  months,  and  a peculiar  spasmodic 
snapping  of  the  lower  jaw  ( St . Georges  Hasp.  Rep).,  v.  69). 

Veratrine  was  used  first  internally  as  a remedy  for  neuralgia , and  in  the  most  obsti- 
nate form  of  that  affection,  sciatica , which  so  often  depends  upon  material  alterations  of 
structure.  It  is  now  very  seldom  given  internally  in  this  or  any  other  variety  of  neural- 
gia, but  is  of  common  use  as  a topical  application  in  the  functional  forms  of  the  affection. 
Although  inferior  for  this  purpose  to  aconitine,  it  is  nevertheless  efficient  in  many  cases 
of  neuralgia  of  the  fifth  pair,  of  the  intercostal  nerves,  and  others.  Very  probably  it  acts 
both  by  obtunding  the  sensibility  of  the  painful  part  and  by  its  counter-irritant  operation 
upon  the  skin  when  it  is  applied  in  due  strength  directly  to  the  sensitive  points  of  the 
nerve.  It  is  sometines  injected  hypodermically,  Gm.  0.01  (£  grain)  at  a time,  but  an 
application  of  the  officinal  ointment  of  veratrine  is  preferable.  It  is  rendered  much  more 
efficient  by  the  addition  to  each  drachm  of  it  of  2 or  3 grains  of  morphine  hydrochlorate 
or  sulphate.  In  various  forms  of  pruritus  the  topical  use  of  veratrine  is  an  efficient  pallia- 
tive. It  may  be  given  internally  with  advantage  when  the  itching  is  general  (Cheron, 
AJed.  JVeu's,  xlvii.  268). 

In  the  treatment  of  acute  articular  rheumatism  this  medicine  has  been  systematically 
employed,  by  beginning  on  the  first  day  of  the  treatment  with  a single  dose  of  Gm.  0.005 
(gr.  -jig),  and  on  each  successive  day  giving  an  additional  dose  until  the  sixth  or  seventh 
day,  unless  the  disease  sooner  yielded  or  the  toxical  effects  of  the  medicine  were  developed. 
In  the  latter  case  it  was  suspended  or  its  dose  diminished.  It  was  claimed  for  this  treat- 
ment that  it  speedily  reduced  the  fever  and  subdued  the  pain  of  the  disease,  and  that  in 
a patient  of  unimpaired  constitution  it  frequently  triumphed  over  an  acute  attack  of  the 
disease  in  a week.  It  was  further  asserted  that  it  did  not,  like  copious  bloodletting, 
exhaust  the  patient’s  strength  and  develop  anaemia.  This  advantage  over  the  older  san- 
guinary method  may  be  admitted,  but  there  is  not  a shadow  of  evidence  to  demonstrate 
its  power  of  shortening  an  attack  of  rheumatism,  or,  above  all,  of  preventing  the  most 
serious  of  the  ordinary  complications  of  the  disease,  inflammation  of  the  heart  and  its 
membranes.  Indeed  it  is  seldom  employed  at  present,  and  those  who  imagine  that  the 
cure  of  rheumatism  consists  in  repressing  certain  of  its  symptoms  find  in  the  preparations 
of  green  hellebore  equally  efficient  and  less  dangerous  agents.  The  same  remark  is 
literally  applicable  to  the  use  of  veratrine  in  pneumonia.  The  strongest  reason  that 
could  be  found  by  an  eminent  therapeutist  for  employing  veratrine  in  this  disease  was 
that  “ the  results  from  its  use  appear  to  be  comparable  to  those  of  the  antimonial  treat- 
ment” (Trousseau).  But  since  the  latter  is  one  of  the  most  mischievous  that  was  ever 
employed,  the  merit  of  the  former  may  be  duly  estimated.  If  some  will  use  this  medicine 
as  they  would  green  hellebore,  digitalis,  aconite,  etc.  in  febrile  affections,  they  must 
be  prepared  with  diffusible  stimulants  to  combat  its  sedative  effects  when  they  grow 
alarming. 

Veratrine  has  occasionally  been  used  to  allay  disordered  action  of  the  heart  in  acute 
and  also  in  chronic  diseases  of  that  organ,  and  it  may  sometimes  become  a useful  pallia- 
tive of  this  distressing  symptom,  and  thereby  even  avail  to  diminish  cardiac  dropsies. 
But  for  such  purposes  other  preparations  of  veratrum  are  preferable.  It  is  unnecessary 
to  discuss  its  virtues  in  eruptive  fevers  or  in  typhoid  fever,  for  which  it  has  sometimes 
been  prescribed,  or  in  nervous  affections,  such  as  whooping  cough,  chorea,  hysteria, 
nervous  tremor,  and  functional  paralysis,  or  to  do  more  than  state  the  fact  of  its  having 
been  employed  topically  to  reduce  enlarged  glands,  scrofulous  swellings  of  joints,  etc.  It 
is  sufficient  to  say  that  Liebermeister  ( Handbuch  des  Fiehers , S.  643),  even  while  advocat- 
ing its  use,  warns  against  giving  it  to  persons  with  a feeble  heart,  and,  while  admitting  that 
it  may  produce  collapse,  claims  that  food  and  alcohol  will  rescue  the  patient  from  that 
peril.  It  is  alleged  by  Feris  that  various  tremors , including  those  due  to  alcohol,  fever, 
nervous  degeneration,  etc.,  are  benefited  by  veratrine  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.0005  (gr.  Tfg-) 
three  or  four  times  a day  ( Practitioner , xxxii.  212).  The  statement  seems  highly  improb- 
able. 

Owing  to  its  very  acrid  taste,  veratrine  is  generally  given  internally  in  pilular  form  in 
doses  varying  from  Gm.  0.0016-0.016  (gr.  ffie  dose  should  be  rapidly  but 

cautiously  increased  from  the  minimum  until  nausea  or  slowing  of  the  pulse  occurs. 
Externally  the  officinal  ointment  is  a convenient  preparation  for  application  by  friction, 
which  should  be  made  with  a mop  or  with  the  finger  guarded  by  a glove,  and  until  a feel- 
ing of  burning  or  prickling  is  perceived  by  the  patient.  Solutions  in  oil  and  glycerin 
may  be  applied  in  the  same  manner.  For  endermic  use  Gm.  0.008-0.033  (gr.  1-3), 
mixed  with  starch,  may  be  prescribed.  Hypodermically,  Gm.  0.01  (gr.  i)  may  be 


1690 


VERATRUM  ALBUM. 


employed  at  a single  operation,  but  the  method  is  objectionable  on  account  of  the  pain  it 
occasions  and  the  probability  of  abscess  being  caused  by  it.  In  poisoning  by  veratrine 
the  stomach  should  first  be  evacuated,  then  washed  with  a solution  of  tannin,  and  the 
sedation  combated  with  alcohol,  ammonia,  electricity,  artificial  respiration,  etc. 

Tulipine , an  alkaloid  derived  from  the  common  tulip,  is  said  by  Dr.  Dinger  to  be  a 
muscle-poison,  like  veratrine,  although  weaker.  It  paralyzes  either  the  cord  or  the  afferent 
nerves,  or  both  ; its  action  on  the  motor  nerves,  if  any,  is  slight ; it  affects  the  heart  of 
frogs  like  veratrine,  and  does  not  affect  the  pupil  ( Practitioner , xxv.  241). 

VERATRUM  ALBUM. — White  Veratrum  (Hellebore). 

Rhizoma  veratri , P.  G.  ; Radix  hellebori  albi. — Veratre  ( Hellebore ) blanc , Fr. ; Weisse 
Nieswurzel , Weisser  Germer.  G. ; Vedegambre  ( Eleboro ) bianco , Sp. 

The  rhizome  {F.  Cod .),  with  the  rootlets  (P.  6r.),  of  Veratrum  album,  Linne.  Bent- 
ley and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 285. 

Nat.  Ord. — Melanthacese. 

Origin. — Veratrum  album  is  an  herbaceous  perennial  growing  in  moist  meadows  of 
the  Pyrenees  and  Alps  and  eastward  throughout  Russia,  Siberia,  Northern  China,  and 
Japan.  It  has  likewise  been  found  in  Colorado  and  in  other  parts  of  Western  North 
America  (Ver.  californicum,  Durand).  The  stem  is  .6-1.2  M.  (2  to  4 feet)  high,  and 
has  numerous  alternate  elliptic  or  broadly  oval,  entire  leaves,  which  are  about  15  Cm. 
(6  inches)  long,  strongly  ribbed  and  plicate,  and  sheathing  at  the  base ; the  upper  ones 
are  smaller,  narrower,  and  lanceolate  in  form.  The  inflorescence  is  a large  racemose 
panicle  30-45  Cm.  (12  to  18  inches)  long,  with  polygamous  flowers  having  six  spreading 
lance-oblong,  yellowish-white,  and  externally  green  sepals.  The  three-horned  fruit  con- 
sists of  three  partly-united  follicles  containing  numerous  flattened  and  winged  seeds. 
The  rhizome  is  collected  in  autumn.  The  variety  viridiflorum,  Mertens  et  Koch  (Ver. 
Lobelianum,  Bernhardi ),  grows  in  Europe,  and  differs  chiefly  in  the  more  simple  inflores- 
cence, the  longer  bracts,  and  the  pale-green  flowers. 

Description. — The  rhizome  of  white  veratrum  is  upright,  obconical  in  shape,  sim- 
ple or  occasionally  divided  above  into  two  branches ; it  is  5-8  Cm.  (2  to  3 inches)  long, 
and  about  25  Mm.  (1  inch)  thick,  tufted  above  with  the  remnants  of 
the  leaf-bases,  truncate  below,  the  lower  half  beset  with  dead  and  the 
upper  portion  with  yellowish  fleshy  nearly  simple  rootlets,  which 
shrink  considerably  in  drying,  and  are  20-30  Cm.  (8  to  12  inches) 
long  and  about  2 Mm.  (TU  inch)  thick.  In  the  commercial  drug  the 
rootlets  were  formerly  often  cut  off  close  to  the  rhizome,  and  this  has 
been  occasionally  divided  to  facilitate  the  drying.  The  rhizome  is 
somewhat  annulate,  externally  of  a dull  black-gray  color,  and  either 
closely  surrounded  with  rootlets  or  tuberculated  from  the  root-rem- 
nants ; internally  it  is  whitish  or  grayish-white,  and  shows  upon 
transverse  or  longitudinal  section,  at  a distance  of  about  3 Mm.  (| 
inch)  from  the  outer  surface,  a brownish  wavy  nucleus-sheath,  and 
in  the  inner  portion  numerous  small  wood-bundles,  which  are  scat- 
tered, irregularly  curved  in  various  directions,  and  rather  crowded 
near  the  nucleus-sheath  ; outside  thereof  only  a few  small  wood- 
bundles  are  seen  passing  into  the  rootlets.  The  nucleus-sheath  consists  of  one  or  occa- 
sionally two  rows  of  cells,  having  the  inner  cell-walls  much  thickened  ; the  parenchyma- 
cells  are  filled  with  small  starch-granules  or  a few  of  them  with  raphides  of  calcium  oxa- 
late. The  drug  is  inodorous,  but  its  dust  is  strongly  sternutatory  ; its  taste  is  bitter  and 
burningly  acrid. 

Constituents. — Pelletier  and  Caventou  (1820)  obtained  from  white  veratrum  liquid 
and  solid  fat,  a volatile  acid,  gum,  starch,  and  an  alkaloid,  which  they  declared  to  be 
identical  with  veratrine,  and  to  be  combined  with  gallic  acid.  The  existence  in  veratrum 
of  gallic  acid  was,  however,  denied  by  Pfaff  and  by  Weigand  (1841).  The  latter  found 
in  it  about  10  per  cent,  of  pectin.  E.  Simon  (1838)  announced  the  isolation  of  a second 
alkaloid,  jervine,  C3oH46N203.  After  Charles  Bullock  (1865)  had  proved  the  non-existence 
of  veratrine  in  Veratrum  viride,  Dragendorff  (1872)  announced  its  absence  also  from  white 
veratrum ; and  this  observation  was  corroborated  by  C.  L.  Mitchell  (1874),  who  found 
in  it,  besides  jervine,  a second  alkaloid,  which  he  named  veratralbine.  Wright  and  Luff 
(1879)  announced  the  presence  in  1 kilogram  of  white  veratrum  of  4.20  Gm.  of  alka- 


Fig.  314. 


Veratrum  album,  Linne: 
longitudinal  section  of 
rhizome. 


VERATRUM  ALBUM. 


1691 


loids,  of  which  1.30  is  jervine,  C26H37N03,  0.40  pseudojervine,  C29H43N07,  0.25  rubijer- 
vine,  C26HwN02,  2.20  veratralbine,  C^H^NOs,  and  0.05  another  sternutatory  base, 
probably  veratrine. 

Jervine , when  pure,  is  a white  powder,  crystallizes  from  alcohol,  is  tasteless,  not 
sternutatory,  insoluble  in  water  and  ether,  soluble  in  alcohol  and  chloroform,  and  melts 
between  198°  C.  (Bullock)  and  237°  C.  (Wright).  Its  salts  with  acetic  and  phosphoric 
acids  are  soluble  in  water,  and  these  solutions  are  precipitated  by  sulphuric,  hydrochloric, 
and  nitric  acids  and  their  soluble  salts.  According  to  Bullock  (1875),  its  acetic  acid 
solution,  treated  with  potassium  nitrate,  affords  a ready  method  for  obtaining  the  alkaloid 
in  a pure  state.  Sulphuric  acid  colors  jervine  yellow,  changing  to  green,  and  finally  to 
turbid  yellow ; on  the  addition  of  bromine  the  green  color  changes  to  a faint  brownish 
tint.  The  other  color  reactions  (yellow  by  nitric  or  boiling  hydrochloric  acid)  are  not 
very  characteristic. 

Pseudojervine , like  jervine,  dissolves  in  strong  sulphuric  acid  with  a yellow  color,  the 
solution  gradually  turning  green  ; its  sulphate  is  tolerably  soluble  in  water.  The  alka- 
loid melts  at  299°  C.,  and  is  insoluble  in  ether. 

Rubijervine  is  soluble  in  ether,  melts  at  237°  C.,  is  colored  red  by  sulphuric  acid,  forms 
a readily  soluble  sulphate,  and  is  not  sternutatory. 

Veratralbine  is  white,  uncrystallizable,  bitter,  burningly  acrid,  and  violently  sternu- 
tatory. It  dissolves  in  alcohol,  amylic  alcohol,  ether,  chloroform,  carbon  disulphide,  and 
in  dilute  acids,  forming  soluble  and  uncrystallizable  salts.  It  melts  near  170°  C. 
(338°  F.)  and  sublimes  in  small  feathery  crystals.  In  its  behavior  to  reagents  it  closely 
resembles  veratroidine , and  is  regarded  by  Tobien  (1877)  as  being  identical  with  it. 
According  to  Wright  and  Luff,  pure  veratralbine  is  not  sternutatory. 

Whppen  (1872)  could  not  find  Weigand’s  pectin,  and  leaves  it  undecided  whether  the 
presence  of  that  compound  is  due  to  an  adulteration  or  to  the  period  at  which  the  rhi- 
zome had  been  collected.  Pelletier  and  Caventou’s  gallic  acid  was  recognized  as  a new 
acid,  called  jervic  acid,  and  the  coloring  matter  as  veratramarin , a light-yellow,  very 
bitter,  and  deliquescent  neutral  principle,  which  is  present  in  very  minute  quantity,  so 
that  60  pounds  of  the  rhizome  yielded  a quantity  insufficient  for  a thorough  chemical 
investigation.  Veratramarin  is  easily  soluble  in  water  and  alcohol,  insoluble  in  ether, 
benzene,  chloroform,  and  petroleum  benzin,  and  is  precipitated  from  its  solutions  by  lead 
subacetate  and  tannin. 

Jervic  acid , CuHxoCba^iPO,  is  a white  crystalline  powder,  has  an  acid  taste,  is  insoluble 
in  benzene,  carbon  disulphide,  chloroform,  petroleum  benzin,  and  amylic  alcohol,  is  very 
sparingly  soluble  in  absolute  alcohol  and  ether,  and  requires  more  than  100  parts  of  cold 
water  for  solution.  The  acid  is  neither  fusible  nor  sublimable  ; its  silver  salt  crystallizes 
from  the  solution  in  hot  water,  is  insoluble  in  dilute  nitric  acid,  and  is  not  altered  on 
exposure  to  light. 

Dr.  Jos.  Waltl  (1828)  considered  the  rhizome,  with  the  rootlets  attached,  to  be  more 
active  than  the  rhizome  alone,  and  Schroff  (1860)  announced  the  rootlets  to  have  a more 
powerful  action  than  the  rhizome,  and  somewhat  different  from  it. 

Action  and  Uses. — When  taken  internally  in  poisonous  doses  it  occasions  soreness 
of  the  mouth  and  swelling  of  the  tongue,  burning  heat  in  the  stomach,  vomiting,  anxiety, 
tremor,  vertigo,  weakness  of  the  limbs,  aphonia,  interrupted  respiration,  syncope,  a feeble 
pulse,  convulsions,  sinking,  distortion  of  the  eyes,  dilated  pupils,  blindness,  mental  aber- 
ration, prolonged  insensibility,  and  cold  sweating.  Among  these  symptoms  purging  is 
not  mentioned,  but  it  occurs  under  the  prolonged  use  of  the  drug..  When  death  has 
resulted  directly  from  poisonous  doses,  signs  of  active  gastro-intestinal  inflammation  and 
congestion  of  the  lungs  have  been  found.  In  poisoning  with  recovery  there  have  been 
observed  for  several  days  debility,  tremulousness,  muscular  twitching,  and  a sense  of 
constriction  and  distress  in  the  prsecordial  region. 

White  hellebore  is  now  hardly  used  as  an  internal  medicine.  Externally,  it  has  been 
applied  in  decoction  to  destroy  vermin  in  man  and  beast  and  for  the  relief  of  pruritus  vul- 
vse.  It  was  formerly  employed  in  the  treatment  of  itch.  Its  irritant  properties  caused  it 
to  be  used  as  an  errhine  when  diluted  with  starch  or  some  other  inert  powder  or  with 
snuff.  In  this  way  it  is  sometimes  made  use  of  to  relieve  the  frontal  headache  which 
occurs  in  certain  cases  of  coryza.  If  it  is  administered  internally,  the  commencing  dose 
should  not  exceed  Gm.  0.06-0.12  (gr.  j-ij). 


1692 


VERATRUM  VIRTUE. 


VERATRUM  VIRIDE,  U.  S.—V eratrum  Viride. 

Veratri  viridis  rhizoma  ( radix ),  Br. — American  or  Green  veratrum  ( hellebore ),  Indian 
poke,  E. ; Veratre  vert , Fr.  ; Griiner  Germer , G. ; Vedegambre  verdo , Sp. 

The  rhizome  and  rootlets  of  Veratrum  viride,  Solander  (Ver.  album,  var.  viride,  Baker , 
Melanthium  virens,  Thunberg).  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 286. 

Nat.  Ord. — Melanthaceae. 

Origin. — Green  veratrum  grows  in  swampy  places  and  on  the  borders  of  damp  thick- 
ets in  Canada,  and  in  the  United  States  as  far  south  as  Georgia.  It  resembles  the  white 
veratrum  so  closely  that  no  important  botanical  difference  between  them  can  be  ascer- 
tained, and  Asa  Gray  remarks  that  it  is  “much  too  near  Veratrum  album  of  Europe.” 
It  more  especially  resembles  the  green  flowering  variety  Lobelianum,  and  Begel  (1861) 
regarded  it  as  identical  with  a variety  growing  in  Eastern  Siberia.  Its  flowers  are  yel- 
lowish-green and  appear  in  June.  The  rhizome  is  collected  in  autumn. 

Description. — The  rhizome  agrees  in  size,  shape,  color,  taste,  and  structure  so 
closely  with  that  of  white  veratrum  that  it  is  difficult,  if  not  impossible,  to  distinguish 
the  two  drugs  if  they  have  been  trimmed  alike.  The  American  veratrum  is  nearly  always 
dried  with  the  rootlets  attached,  and  these  are  from  10-25  Cm.  (4  to  10  inches)  long, 
abou-1  2 Mm.  (T^-  inch)  thick,  much  shrivelled,  and  of  a light  yellowish-brown  color ; 
those  on  the  lower  part  of  the  rhizome,  if  present,  are  thinner  and  black.  We  have 
occasionally  found  considerable  portions  of  the  leaf-stalks  and  stems  present  in  the  com- 
mercial drug;  these  parts  appear  to  be  inert  or  nearly  so,  and  should  be  rejected. 

Constituents. — H.  W.  Worthington  (1838)  isolated  an  alkaloid  from  green  vera- 
trum which  he  regarded  as  identical  with  veratrine.  The  same  conclusion  was  arrived 
at  by  J.  G.  Bichardson  (1857)  and  by  G.  J.  Scattergood  (1861).  But  Charles  Bullock 
(1865)  proved  that  American  veratrum  contains  two  alkaloids,  neither  of  which  is  identical 
with  veratrine.  These  alkaloids  were  subsequently  named  by  Prof.  G.  B.  Wood  viridine 
(insoluble  in  ether)  and  veratroidine  (soluble  in  ether).  E.  Puegnet  (1872)  recognized 
the  so-called  viridine  as  impure  jervine , and  C.  L.  Mitchell  (1874)  made  the  same  obser- 
vation. In  the  same  year  Mitchell  characterized  veratroidine  as  follows  : It  is  a white 
uncrystallizable  powder  of  a bitter  taste,  leaving  a tingling  sensation  in  the  fauces,  vio- 
lently sternutatory,  and  extremely  irritating.  It  fuses  near  130°  C.  (265°  F.),  is  solu- 
ble in  alcohol,  amylic  alcohol,  ether,  chloroform,  carbon  disulphide,  and  when  freshly  pre- 
cipitated slightly  in  petroleum  benzin.  It  forms  soluble  salts  with  the  acids,  most  of 
which  are  uncrystallizable.  Sulphuric  acid  colors  it  yellow,  changing  to  dark-red.  Boil- 
ing hydrochloric  and  nitric  acids  color  it  yellow.  Tobien’s  (1877)  elementary  analysis 
leads  to  the  formula  C51H78N2016  or  to  C24H37N07.  He  obtained  both  jervine  and  vera- 
troidine also  from  the  rhizome  and  the  young  leaves  of  Veratrum  lobelianum,  and  found 
in  the  dried  rhizome  of  Veratrum  album  but  little  jervine  and  a larger  quantity  of  vera- 
troidine. C.  A.  Bobbins  (1877)  announced  that  he  had  isolated  from  American  veratrum, 
besides  jervine,  another  crystallizable  alkaloid,  which  is  soluble  in  ether,  and  which  pro- 
duces with  sulphuric  acid  and  sugar  a yellow  color  changing  to  blue,  and  with  sulphuric 
acid  a yellow  color  quickly  changing  to  a pink-red,  and  after  several  hours  to  indigo-blue ; 
presence  of  jervine  or  of  coloring  matter  prevents  the  appearance  of  the  blue  color. 
Bullock  (1879)  obtained  0.66  per  cent,  of  mixed  alkaloids  ; Wright  and  Luff  (1879)  only 
0.08  per  cent.,  that  portion  remaining  with  the  resins  probably  escaping  their  notice.  The 
latter  investigators  consider  over  one-half  of  the  alkaloids  to  be  cevadine  (see  Veratrina), 
one-fourth  to  be  jervine,  nearly  one-fifth  to  he  pseudojervine,  and  the  remainder  rubijervine, 
while  less  than  0.0004  per  cent,  is  regarded  by  them  as  veratrine , the  presence  of  which, 
besides  jervine,  in  both  the  American  and  white  veratrum  was  announced  by  Prof.  Worm- 
ley  in  1876.  Bullock,  however,  obtained  fully  two-thirds  of  the  alkaloids  as  nitrate  of 
jervine,  the  remainder  being  Wright’s  rubijervine,  with  probably  some  pseudojervine. 
(See  Veratrum  Album.) 

In  the  investigations  recorded  above  no  notice  has  been  taken  of  the  probable  difference 
in  the  composition  of  the  rootlets  and  rhizome,  as  suggested  by  Prof.  Schroff.  The  rhi- 
zome of  American,  like  that  of  the  white  veratrum,  contains  considerable  resin,  from  which 
the  alkaloids  are  not  easily  purified. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  greater  number  of  reports  which  have  been  published  con- 
cerning the  medicinal  uses  of  green  veratrum  are,  unfortunately,  not  only  deficient  in  the 
details  on  which  a judgment  could  securely  rest,  but  exhibit  great  ignorance  of  the  nat- 
ural history  of  disease  and  of  the  relation  of  medicines  to  its  cure.  There  are  many 


VERA  TR  UM  VIRIDE. 


1693 


reporters  who  attribute  to  this  medicine  equal  curative  virtues  in  asthenic  and  sthenic 
diseases,  in  inflammations  (pneumonia),  and  in  fevers  ( typhoid  fever),  and  not  a few  who 
extol  its  virtues  when  it  forms  only  one  of  several  active  agents  simultaneously  admin- 
istered to  the  patient.  The  only  conclusion  to  be  drawn  from  a critical  study  of  the 
mass  of  conflicting  evidence  respecting  its  use  in  the  diseases  referred  to  is,  that  the 
patients  would  have  been  better  off  not  only  without  its  use,  but  also  without  that  of  the 
medicines  associated  with  it.  The  suggestion  has  been  made  that  the  effects  of  veratrum 
viride  and  of  depletion  are  so  similar  that  the  drug  may  serve  as  a substitute  for  that 
operation ; upon  which  it  may  be  remarked  that  the  condemnation  of  venesection  upon 
scientific  grounds  has  been  so  general  and  complete  that  to  advocate  a medicine  on  account 
of  its  supposed  analogy  to  depletion  is  not  to  recommend  it.  Nor  should  it  be  forgotten 
that  this  identical  reason  was  at  one  time  urged  in  favor  of  substituting  digitalis  for 
depletion.  Now,  veratrum  viride  and  digitalis  are  physiological  antagonists.  But 
venesection  does  much  more  than  reduce  the  pulse-rate  in  inflammatory  affections  (and, 
indeed,  in  comparison  with  green  veratrum,  its  action  is  in  this  respect  very  insignificant)  : 
it  takes  away  from  the  blood  a portion  of  the  solids  which  sustain  the  inflammatory  pro- 
cess, and  supplies  their  place  with  water ; it  also  removes  from  the  system  a portion  of 
the  effete  matters  produced  by  inflammation  and  which  tend  to  convert  the  circulating 
fluid  into  a poison.  The  artificial  production  of  perspiration  by  veratrum  or  by  any 
other  medicine  does  not  accomplish  this  purpose.  It  may  occasion  a profuse  discharge 
of  water,  and  so  far  may  diminish  the  amount  of  liquid  in  the  blood-vessels ; but  there 
is  no  reason  to  believe  that  it  removes  the  “ materies  morbi,”  the  “ peccant  matter,” 
associated  with  the  disease  materially  and  essentially.  If  it  were  really  curative  in  this 
manner,  then  jaborandi  and  pilocarpine  ought  to  be  the  most  efficient  remedies  for  fevers 
and  inflammations  ; which  is  not  claimed  in  their  behalf.  The  only  plausible  grounds  for 
its  use  in  pneumonia  are  more  theoretical  than  practical.  What  has  been  observed  of  its 
effects  in  acute  rheumatism  is  true  of  other  febrile  diseases.  As  expressed  by  Boulter 
(St.  Bartholomew' s Hosp.  Rep.,  xv.  164),  “ veratrum  viride  has  little  or  no  effect  in 
reducing  the  temperature  in  rheumatic  fever  ; the  pains  subside  no  more  quickly  (?)  than 
under  other  ordinary  modes  of  treatment ; it  has  no  power  of  warding  off  cardiac 
complications ; and  its  only  effect — which,  however,  only  takes  place  in  some  cases — 
is  to  depress  the  vascular  system,  as  shown  by  the  slowness  and  irregularity  of  the 
heart’s  action.”  Cardiac  sedatives,  of  which  the  medicine  under  consideration  is 
the  type,  tend  to  retain  in  the  blood  all  that  is  injurious  in  it,  and  at  the  same  time 
reduce  the  patient  to  a state  of  such  wretchedness  that  he  is  unable  to  take  food,  or  to 
digest  it  if  he  eats  it,  or  even  to  find  energy  enough  to  cling  to  that  last  refuge  of  sufferers, 
hope. 

There  is  but  one  class  of  acute  cases  in  which  the  utility  of  this  medicine  is  presumable 
— cases  of  imminent  or  commencing  congestion  or  inflammation , in  which  the  maintenance 
of  its  sedative  action  on  the  heart  for  a short  period  would  allow  the  conservative  powers 
of  the  system  to  operate  within  normal  limits  (tonsillitis,  pleurisy,  pneumonia).  This 
statement  also  applies  to  certain  wounds  which  tend  to  dangerous  results,  like  those  of 
the  head,  pericardium  and  heart,  and  peritoneum.  The  comparative  immobility  in  which 
the  inflamed  parts  are  maintained  by  the  infrequent  arterial  movement  may  favor  their 
cure.  In  some  cases  of  organic  heart  disease,  as  well  as  of  nervous  palpitation,  including 
exophthalmic  goitre , this  medicine  is  reported  to  have  afforded  great  relief,  probably  by 
allowing  the  heart  sufficient  rest  for  recovering  its  power  (Bidl.  et.  Mem.  Soc.  ther.,  1889, 
p.  175).  It  would  certainly  be  unsuited  for  the  treatment  of  cardiac  affections  depending 
upon  absolute  debility  of  the  organ'.  It  has  been  used  with  apparent  benefit  in  puerperal 
mania , puerperal  convulsions  (Therap.  Gaz .,  xi.  675;  Canadian  Practitioner,  March. 
1885) , epileptiform  convulsions,  tetanus,  chorea,  and  mania-a-potu.  In  a case  of  persistent 
priapism  affecting  only  the  corpora  cavernosa,  and  after  failure  to  reduce  it  by  means  of 
many  medicines,  including  tartar  emetic,  belladonna,  and  potassium  bromide,  the  penis 
began  to  be  relaxed  as  soon  as  veratrum  viride  had  reduced  the  pulse  to  50  (Walker, 
Amer.  Jour.  Med.  Sci .,  Apr.  1877,  p.  565).  It  will  be  observed  that  nearly  all  of  the 
acute  affections  in  which  the  medicine  has  been  most  unequivocally  useful  were  marked 
by  nervous,  and  not  febrile,  excitement ; in  other  words,  they  were  amenable  to  it  as  a 
sedative  of  the  nervous  and  not  of  the  circulatory  system.  Remarkable  results  have 
been  attributed  to  the  sedative  influence  on  the  pulse-rate  of  veratrum  viride  in  diph- 
theria. But  since  in  the  series  of  cases  which  led  to  this  judgment  there  were  used, 
besides  green  veratrum,  applications  of  Monsel’s  salt,  internally  potassium  chlorate 
and  sublimed  sulphur  and  calomel,  and  also  external  applications  of  “ kerosene  oil 


1694 


YERBASCUM. 


or  some  other  irritant”  ( Med . Record , xxxiii.  627),  the  utility  of  white  hellebore  in 
diphtheria  cannot  be  considered  as  proven  bj^  them,  and  analogy  does  not  render  it 
probable. 

Externally,  the  tincture  is  used  as  a discutient  and  anodyne. 

The  proper  remedies  in  poisoning  by  this  drug  are  diffusible  stimulants,  and  especially 
alcohol,  which  should  be  given  by  the  rectum  if  the  patient  vomits.  Its  efficacy  is  shown 
by  the  case  of  a physician  who  took  an  ounce  of  the  tincture  at  one  draught ; so  com- 
pletely did  the  alcohol  counteract  the  green  veratrum  of  the  preparation  that  except 
nausea,  vomiting,  and  some  dyspnoea  no  evil  results  followed  (N.  Amer.  Med.-Chir.  Rev., 
ii.  930).  Besides  alcohol,  ammonia  may  be  administered,  and  sinapisms  should  be  applied 
over  the  heart,  while  stimulant  (that  is,  small  and  repeated)  doses  of  some  liquid  prepara- 
tion of  opium  may  be  administered.  During  the  treatment  the  patient’s  head  should  be 
kept  as  low  as  his  body,  or  even  lowfer. 

Green  veratrum  may  be  administered  in  powder  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.12  (gr.  ij),  but 
the  liquid  preparations  are  more  eligible.  Of  these  the  fluid  extract  and  the  tincture  are 
officinal ; the  dose  of  the  former  is  from  Gm.  0.05-0.15  (1  to  3 minims),  and  of  the 
latter  from  Gm.  0.20-0.40  (4  to  8 minims).  They  should  be  given  at  intervals  of  about 
three  hours.  Their  tendency  to  cause  vomiting  may  be  prevented  by  the  administration 
of  from  5 to  10  drops  of  deodorized  laudanum  ten  or  fifteen  minutes  before  each  dose. 
As  soon  as  the  pulse  begins  to  fall  the  dose  should  be  diminished.  Females  and  growing 
persons  ought  not  to  take  doses  exceeding  two-thirds  of  those  mentioned,  and  for  children 
from  one  to  five  years  old  a sufficient  quantity  is  Gm.  0.06  (gtt.  j)  of  the  tincture. 
Gm.  0.60-1  (npx-xv)  of  tincture,  largely  diluted  with  water,  have  been  administered 
hypodermically. 

VERBASCUM.— Mullein. 

Bouillon-blanc,  Molene , Fr.  Cod. ; Wollhraut , Konigsherze,  G. : Gordoloba,  Sp.  • 

The  leaves  and  flowers  of  Yerbascum  Thapsus,  Linne  (V.  Schraderi,  G.  Meyer),  F. 
Cod. ; the  corolla  of  V.  plilomoides,  JAnne,  and  Y.  thapsiforme,  Schrader  (Y.  Thapsus, 
G.  Meyer),  P.  G. 

Nat.  Ord. — Scrophulariaceae. 

Origin. — The  genus  Yerbascum  consists  of  tall,  more  or  less  woolly,  biennial  or  per- 
ennial herbs,  with  the  flowers  in  dense  spikes  or  paniculate  racemes.  The  flowers  have  a 
five-parted  calyx,  a wheel-shaped  somewhat  unequally  five-lobed  corolla,  five  more  or  less 
woolly  stamens,  and  a two-celled,  two-valved,  and  many-seeded  capsule.  Three  species 
have  been  naturalized  in  North  America — Yerb.  Blattaria,  Linne , Y.  Lychnitis,  Linne , 
and  Y.  Thapsus,  Linne — having  the  leaves  respectively  nearly  smooth  on  both  sides, 
tomentose  on  the  lower  surface,  and  densely  woolly  on  both  sides. 

Description. — Folia  verbasci.  The  leaves  are  from  10-20  or  30  Cm.  (4  to  8 or 
12  inches)  long,  the  upper  ones  sessile  on  the  stem,  and  all  decurrent.  They  vary  in 
shape  between  elliptic,  oblong,  and  oval-lanceolate,  are  acute,  more  or  less  crenate  on  the 
margin,  and  densely  covered  with  soft  whitish  stellate  hairs.  The  leaves  are  nearly  in- 
odorous and  have  an  insipid,  mucilaginous,  faintly  bitter  taste. 

Flores  verbasci.  The  calyx  is  rejected,  and  only  the  corolla  with  the  adhering  sta- 
mens is  preserved.  The  wheel-shaped  corolla  is  25—38  Mm.  (1  to  11  inches),  broad,  bright- 
yellow,  smooth  above,  and  stellately  tomentose  beneath,  has  five  obovate  roundish  lobes 
about  15  Mm.  (|-  inch)  long,  and  bears  in  the  short  tube  the  stamens,  of  which  the  three 
upper  ones  have  reniform  anthers  and  the  filaments  covered  with  a white  wool ; the  two 
lower  stamens  are  longer  and  smooth  and  have  elongated  decurrent  anthers.  Y.  Thapsus 
has  the  corolla  only  about  12  Mm.  (1  inch)  broad,  and  the  lower  stamens  with  long  fila- 
ments. Y.  Lychnitis  and  Y.  Blattaria  have  the  anthers  reniform  upon  equal  filaments, 
which  are  white-woolly  in  the  former  and  purple-woolly  in  the  latter  species.  To 
preserve  their  bright  color  the  flowers  should  be  thoroughly  dried  and  kept  in  a dry 
and  well-stoppered  bottle  ; if  permitted  to  become  damp  they  acquire  a blackish  color. 
The  flowers  have  a slight,  agreeable,  honey-like  odor  and  a mucilaginous  and  sweet 
taste. 

Constituents. — The  leaves  and  flowers  contain  mucilage.  Morin  (1826)  obtained 
from  the  flowers  a trace  of  yellowish  volatile  oil,  a fatty  substance,  sugar,  and  coloring 
matter  which  is  insoluble  in  ether  and  cold  water  and  yields  in  alcoholic  solution  a yellow 
precipitate  with  lead  acetate. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  chief  medicinal  constituent  of  this  plant  is  the  mucilage 


VERONICA.— VIBURNUM  OPULUS. 


1695 


furnished  by  its  leaves,  but  its  flowers  contain  an  essential  oil  in  small  proportion,  to 
which  the  agreeable  odor  of  the  fresh  plant  and  its  slight  stimulant  qualities  are  due. 
Fish  are  said  to  become  stupefied  by  eating  the  seeds.  The  infusion  of  mullein  is  useful 
in  catarrhal  affections  of  the  respiratory  organs , and  in  Ireland  is  in  popular  use  to  palli- 
ate cough  and  diarrhoea.  For  this  purpose  it  should  be  boiled  with  milk.  It  is  much 
used  in  the  country  mentioned  to  relieve  the  cough  of  phthisis.  It  is  recommended  in 
irritations  of  the  urinary  bladder.  It  may  be  used  in  enema  for  dysentery.  It  is  said, 
but  without  sufficient  evidence  of  the  assertion,  that  it  has  cured  intermittent  fever.  A 
poultice  made  with  the  leaves  boiled  in  milk  is  a convenient  application  to  inflamed  haem- 
orrhoids. Olive  oil  saturated  with  mullein-flowers  during  prolonged  exposure  to  the  sun, 
or  kept  near  a fire  for  several  days  in  a corked  bottle,  is  a popular  preparation  in  Ger- 
many for  bruises , frost-bite , and  irritable  piles.  The  infusion  should  be  made  of  the  fresh 
leaves  and  flowers,  if  possible,  in  the  proportion  of  Gm.  32  to  Gm.  500  (t^j  to  Oj)  of  boil- 
ing water.  When  cool  it  should  be  strained  to  free  it  from  the  irritating  hairs  which 
cover  the  leaves. 


VERONICA. — Speedwell. 

Veronique  male , Fr. ; Ehrenpreis , G. ; Veronica,  Sp. 

Veronica  officinalis,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Scrophulariacese. 

Origin  and  Description. — The  common  speedwell  is  distributed  over  a consider- 
able portion  of  the  northern  hemisphere,  and  grows  in  grassy  places  and  open  woods.  It 
is  a procumbent  pubescent  perennial  with  ascending  branches  and  with  opposite,  short- 
petiolate,  obovate,  or  elliptic  and  coarsely  crenate  or  serrate,  grayish-green  leaves,  which 
are  about  25  Mm.  (1  inch)  long.  The  flowers  are  in  one  or  two  axillary  racemes  on  the 
upper  part  of  the  branches,  are  on  short  pedicels,  and  have  a wheel-shaped  four-parted 
pale-bhie  corolla  with  dark-blue  stripes  and  two  exserted  stamens.  The  fruit  is  an 
inversely  heart-shaped,  two-celled  capsule.  The  fresh  herb  is  faintly  aromatic ; after  dry- 
ing it  is  inodorous  and  has  a bitterish  and  slightly  astringent  taste. 

Constituents. — Speedwell  contains  a little  tannin  and  a bitter  principle. 

Allied  Species. — Veronica  Beccabunga,  Linn€. — Brooklime,  E. ; Beccabunga,  Cressonee, 
Fr. ; Bachbungen,  G. — It  grows  in  Europe  and  Asia  near  springs  and  in  brooks,  and  has  an 
ascending  smooth  stem,  with  opposite,  short  petiolate,  oval  or  oblong,  crenate-serrate,  obtuse,  and 
smooth  leaves,  about  38  Mm.  (1^  inches)  long,  and  with  axillary  loose  racemes  of  pale-blue  and 
veined  flowers.  It  is  used  in  the  fresh  state  (F.  Cod.). 

Ver.  americana,  Schweinitz,  resembles  the  preceding,  but  has  petiolate,  ovate,  acutish,  and 
often  slightly  heart-shaped  leaves. 

Brooklime  is  inodorous,  and  has  a bitterish,  somewhat  saline,  and  slightly  pungent  taste. 

Action  and  Uses. — Veronica  is  bitter,  astringent,  and  slightly  aromatic,  in  which 
qualities  it  resembles  hoarhound  and  several  other  plants  which,  like  it,  have  been  used 
in  the  treatment  of  chronic  bronchitis.  Its  decoction  has  been  applied  externally  in 
scabies , papular  cutaneous  eruptions , and  ulcers , and  given  internally  in  urinary  and  calcu- 
lous disorders.  V.  Beccabunga  is  regarded  as  antiscorbutic  and  diuretic,  and  is  said  to  be 
slightly  stimulant  and  tonic.  It  has  been  employed  in  chronic  affections  of  the  skin,  in 
scrofula,  and  in  scurvy,  both  internally  and  topically.  It  is  reported  that  V.  parviflora 
( Koroniko ),  a New  Zealand  plant,  is  very  efficient  in  the  treatment  of  chronic  dysentery 
(Practitioner,  xxix.  300). 

VIBURNUM  OPULUS,  77.  S, — Viburnum  Opulus  (Cramp-bark). 

Cranberry-tree  bark,  E. ; EcorCe  diobier,  Fr. ; Wasserholderrinde , G. 

The  bark  of  Viburnum  opulus,  Linni. 

Nat.  Ord. — Caprifoliacese. 

Origin. — This  species  is  indigenous  to  Canada,  Northern  United  States,  Europe,  and 
; Northern  Asia.  It  is  arborescent,  growing  to  the  height  of  3 to  4.5  M.  (10  to  15  feet), 
and  possesses  three-lobed  serrate  leaves  and  white  or  yellowish-white  flowers.  The  fruit 
I is  a bright-red,  elliptic,  one-seeded  drupe,  resembling  the  cranberry,  and  on  account  of 
which  similarity  the  tree  is  known  as  the  cranberry  tree. 

Description. — The  bark  is  found  either  in  flattish  or  in  curved  bands  or  quills, 
which  are  occasionally  30  Cm.  (12  inches)  long,  the  bark  being  from  1 to  1.5  Mm.  (^  to 
-jig-  inch)  in  thickness.  The  outer  surface  is  ash-gray  or  brownish-gray  in  color,  with 
scattered  somewhat  transversely  elongated  brownish  warts,  which  are  due  to  abrasion,  and 


1696 


VIBURNUM  PR UNIFOLI UM. 


more  or  less  marked  with  blackish  dots,  and  in  a longitudinal  direction  with  black  irregu- 
lar lines  or  thin  ridges.  Underneath  the  readily  removable  corky  layer  the  bark  is  of  a pale 
brownish  or  reddish-brown  color.  On  the  inner  surface  the  bark  is  of  a dingy  white  or 
brownish  color.  The  bark  is  tough,  and  on  breaking  the  tissue  separates  in  layers.  It 
is  odorless,  and  has  a somewhat  astringent  and  bitter  taste. 

Constituents. — Chevreul  obtained  from  the  berries  a volatile  acid  which  he  found 
to  be  identical  with  phocenic  acid,  obtained  by  him  from  the  fat  of  the  dolphin.  Dumas 
later  found  phocenic  acid  to  be  identical  with  valerianic  acid.  Kramer  (1834)  obtained 
a volatile  acid  from  the  bark,  which  he  found  differed  from  valerianic  acid,  but  L.  von 
Mono  (1841)  proved  their  identity.  Kramer  further  found  malic  acid,  an  iron-bluing 
tannin,  and  a bitter  principle,  viburnin.  This  in  the  pure  state  constituted  a nearly  white 
powder,  which  was  neutral,  had  a purely  bitter  taste,  and  was  slightly  soluble  in  water, 
more  freely  in  alcohol,  and  on  incineration  left  little  ash. 

VIBURNUM  PRUNIFOLIUM,  U.  S.— Black  Haw. 

The  bark  of  Viburnum  prunifolium,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Caprifoliacese. 

Origin. — The  black  haw  is  a tall  shrub  or  small  tree  from  3-6  M.  (10  to  20  feet)  high, 
and  grows  in  thickets  throughout  the  greater  portion  of  the  United  States  east  of  the  Mis- 
sissippi. Its  leaves  are  opposite,  about  5 Cm.  (2  inches)  long,  shining,  oval,  or  obovate, 
sharply  serrulate,  and  have  short  slightly  margined  petioles.  The  small  white  pentam- 
erous  flowers  are  in  terminal  cymes,  have  a wheel-shaped  corolla,  and  produce  small  blue- 
black  edible  drupes  containing  a flattish,  smooth  putamen.  The  bark  is  employed  in 
medicine. 

Description. — Black-haw  bark  is  in  thin  quills,  and  has  externally  a somewhat 
glossy  purplish-brown,  and  when  older  a grayish-brown,  color.  The  surface  is  marked 
with  scattered  small  roundish  or  transversely  elongated  warts,  and  often  with  minute 
black  dots.  The  thin,  papery,  corky  layer  is  easily  removed  from  the  green  outer  bark. 
The  inner  bark  is  white  and  the  inner  surface  smooth.  The  bark  breaks  with  a short 
smooth  fracture,  is  without  odor,  and  has  a slightly  astringent  and  distinctly  bitter  taste. 

Allied  Species. — Viburnum  obovatum,  Walter , grows  in  the  Southern  United  States,  and  is  a 
shrub  about  2.4  M.  (8  feet)  high  ; it  is  known  as  black  haw.  The  leaves  are  12-25  Mm.  to  1 
inch)  long,  rather  leathery,  broadly  obovate  or  spatulate,  narrowed  into  a short  petiole,  slightly 
revolute  on  the  margin,  either  entire  or  crenate  near  the  apex,  and  on  the  lower  surface  marked 
with  minute  brownish  dots.  The  cymes  are  small  and  three-rayed,  the  flowers  white,  and  the  fruit 
black  and  ovoid-oblong.  The  leaves  are  inodorous  and  have  a bitter  taste,  which  is  more  per- 
sistent than  that  of  the  brown  or  reddish-gray  bark. 

Viburnum  lantana,  Linne , is  a European  shrub  with  ovate  or  oval,  slightly  heart-shaped, 
acutely  serrate  leaves,  and  with  red,  finally  black,  mealy  drupes  of  a mucilaginous  and  sweet 
taste.  The  inner  bark  is  acrid. 

Constituents. — Bnz  (1863)  found  in  the  fruit  of  V.  lantana  a hygroscopic,  neutral, 
bitter  principle  readily  soluble  in  water ; also  valerianic,  acetic,  tartaric,  and  tannic  acids. 
II.  Van  Allen  examined  black-haw  bark,  and  obtained  valerianic  acid,  viburnin,  a resin- 
ous body  of  a very  bitter  taste  containing  sugar,  tannin  (greenish-black  with  ferric  salts), 
and  oxalic,  citric,  and  malic  acids.  The  air-dry  bark  contained  7 per  cent,  of  moisture 
and  yielded  8.3  per  cent,  of  ash,  consisting  mostly  of  earthy  carbonates  and  phosphates. 

Action  and  Uses. — Nothing  definite  appears  to  be  known  respecting  the  mode  of 
action  of  either  officinal  species.  Incongruous  qualities  are  assigned  to  them,  such  as  to 
be  at  once  nervine,  astringent,  diuretic,  and  tonic.  According- to  Payne’s  experiments.  I', 
prunifolium  “ paralyzes  the  centres  of  voluntary  motion  and  the  reflex  functions  of  the 
spinal  cord”  ( Med . News,  lx.  371).  The  only  definite  medicinal  operation  attributed  to 
it  does  not  involve  any  of  these  operations — viz.  a power  of  preventing  abortion , particu- 
larly when  attempted  by  the  use  of  cotton-root.  A case  intended  to  illustrate  such  virtue 
in  the  drug  has  been  published  ( Therapeutic  Gaz.,  Nov.  1882),  but  as  the  patient  also  took 
enormous  doses  of  morphine,  as  well  as  potassium  bromide,  it  is  impossible  to  believe 
that  the  viburnum  had  any  share  in  the  result.  Many  cases  relied  on  to  demonstrate  the 
virtues  of  the  medicine  are  equally  inconclusive,  but  others  appear  to  sustain  the  popular 
estimate  of  them  (Metcalf,  Ther.  Gaz.,  Nov.  1882 ; Wilson,  British  Med.  Jour.,  Apr.  3, 1886; 
Campbell,  ibid.,  Feb.  27,  1886;  Roberts,  ibid.,  Nov.  26,  1887  ; Auvard  ; Schatz,  Thera]). 
Gaz.,  xu.  106,  628;  ibid. , xiii.  43,  385;  Payne,  Med.  News,  lx.  371),  while  still  others  do 
not  furnish  the  grounds  for  a positive  judgment.  At  a meeting  of  the  Materia  Medica 
Society  of  New  York  (1883)  the  value  of  V.  prunifolium  was  discussed,  and  no  conclusive 


VINA  MEDIC  A TA. — VIN  UM  ALBUM. 


1697 


evidence  of  its  alleged  virtues  was  adduced.  On  the  same  occasion  the  use  of  V.  opulus 
was  urgently  advocated  as  a very  efficient  antispasmodic  in  asthma,  hysteria,  puerperal 
and  other  convulsions,  and  as  “ a powerful  uterine  sedative  ” ( Med . Record ',  xxiii.  188). 
In  1876,  Leonard  described  this  species  as  “ a uterine  sedative,  and  often  a remedy  for 
neuralgic  dysmenorrhcea  and  for  the  commonly  associated  spinal  irritation.  Indeed,  it 
has  been  credited  with  increasing,  and  also  with  diminishing,  the  menstrual  flow.  Vibur- 
num has  been  administered  in  the  form  of  an  infusion  or  a decoction  made  with  Gm.  32 
in  Gm.  500  (§j  in  Oj)  of  water,  and  in  doses  of  Gm.  32—64  (1  or  2 ounces),  repeated 
every  two  or  three  hours.  The  officinal  fluid  extract  may  he  prescribed  in  doses  of  Gm. 
2.00-8  (f^ss-ij),  or  the  solid  extract  in  gelatin-coated  pills  of  4 grains,  of  which  from 
one  to  three  may  be  given  at  a dose. 


VINA  MEDICATA.— Medicated  Wines. 

Vins  medicinaux , CEnoles , Fr.  ; Medicinische  Weine,  G. 

Medicated  wines  are  preparations  analogous  to  tinctures,  but  differ  from  them  in  the 
menstruum,  which  contains  a much  smaller  and  a somewhat  variable  quantity  of  alcohol 
and  a certain  proportion  of  extractive  matter  and  acid  potassium  tartrate.  The  men- 
struum directed  for  the  medicated  wines  is  either  dry  white  wine  ( F '.  Cod.,P.  6r.),  a mix- 
ture of  white  wine  and  alcohol  (£7!  JS.,  F.  Cod. ),  sherry  wine  ( Br .,  F.  G .),  or  red,  Lunel, 
Grenache,  Malaga,  and  other  wines  ( F \ Cod.).  Since  even  the  strongly  alcoholic  official 
wines  cannot  be  kept  unaltered  for  an  indefinite  period  if  exposed  to  the  air,  the  medi- 
cated wines,  which  necessarily  contain  various  principles  subject  to  gradual  decomposition, 
should  he  kept  in  well-stoppered  bottles. 

The  Pharmacopoeia  has  discontinued  the  formula  for  stronger  white  wine , which,  accord- 
ing to  the  U.  S.  P.  1880,  was  prepared  by  mixing  1 part  (by  weight)  of  alcohol  with  7 
parts  (by  weight)  of  white  wine,  and  instead  now  directs  a specified  quantity  of  alcohol 
in  each  formula  where  fortification  of  the  wine  is  desired. 

The  following  medicated  wines  made  with  white  wine  are  not  mentioned  elsewhere : 

Vinum  condurango,  P.  G.  ; Wine  of  condurango,  E.  ; Condurangowein,  G. — Macerate 
1 part  of  finely-cut  condurango-bark  with  10  parts  of  sherry  wine  for  eight  days,  with 
frequent  agitation  ; express  and  filter. 

Vinum  fraxin^:  Americans,  N.  F. ; Wine  of  white  ash. — Macerate  8 troyounces 
of  white-ash  bark,  in  No.  40  powder,  with  16  fluidounces  of  stronger  white  wine  for  three 
days,  pack  in  a percolator,  and  pour  on  stronger  white  wine  until  16  fluidounces  of  per- 
colate are  obtained. 

Vinum  picis,  JN.  F. ; Wine  of  tar. — Wash  1?  troyounces  of  tar  thoroughly  with  4 
ounces  of  cold  water  by  trituration,  and  pour  the  water  away.  Mix  the  remaining  tar 
with  2 troyounces  of  moderately  fine  pumice,  and  add  16  fluidounces  of  stronger  white 
wine  ; stir  frequently  during  four  hours,  filter  through  a well-wetted  filter,  and  pass 
enough  stronger  white  wine  through  the  filter  to  bring  the  volume  up  to  16  fluidounces. 

VINUM  ALBUM,  U.  S.— White  Wine. 

Vinum  generosum  album. — Vin  blanc , Fr. ; Weisswein , G.  ; Vino  bianco , Sp. 

An  alcoholic  liquid  made  by  fermenting  the  unmodified  juice  of  the  fresh  fruit  of  Vitis 
vinifera,  Linne  (nat.  ord.  Vitac-eae),  freed  from  seeds,  stems,  and  skins.  When  white  wine 
is  prescribed  without  further  specification,  it  is  recommended  that  dry  white  wine  of 
domestic  production  (such  as  California  Riesling,  Ohio  Catawba,  etc.)  be  employed.  White 
wine  should  be  preserved  in  well-closed,  full  casks  or  in  well-stoppered  bottles  in  a cool 
place. — U.  S. 

Nat.  Ord. — Vitaceae. 

Origin. — American  wines  are  mostly  obtained  from  the  fruit  of  cultivated  varieties 
of  Vitis  Labrusca,  Linne , and  more  particularly  from  Catawba,  Concord,  and  Isabella 
grapes.  The  Clinton  grape  is  a variety  of  V.  aestivalis,  Michaux  ; the  Delaware  grape  is 
derived  from  V.  cordifolia  or  V.  riparia,  Michaux  ; and  the  Scuppernong  grape  from  V. 
vulpini,  Linne.  The  European  grape  was  introduced  into  California  at  an  early  period, 
and  large  quantities  of  wine  are  now  manufactured  from  the  different  varieties.  All 
European  wines  are  prepared  from  the  fruit  of  Vitis  vinifera,  Linne  (see  Uv^e),  which  is 
a native  of  Western  Asia  and  has  been  cultivated  for  many  centuries  ; it  is  not  unlikely 
107 


1698 


V1NUM  ALBUM . 


that  this  species  originated  from  two  or  three  different  plants,  supposed  by  some  botanists 
to  be  indigenous  to  India,  and  by  others  to  be  still  found  in  the  wild  state  in  Eastern 
countries  and  in  Southern  and  Central  Europe. 

Manufacture  Of  Wine. — In  addition  to  the  constituents  of  grapes  enumerated 
under  Uvje,  vegetable  albumen,  glutinous  matter,  pectin,  and  various  extractive  matters 
are  found  in  the  juice  of  grapes,  and  occasionally  racemic  acid,  either  in  the  free  state 
or  partly  combined  with  bases.  Besides  tartrates,  the  saline  constituents  are  potas- 
sium sulphate,  sodium  chloride,  calcium  phosphate,  magnesia,  alumina,  and  silica.  The 
relative  amount  of  these  principles  varies  considerably,  depending  on  the  nature  of  the 
soil  and  on  atmospheric  conditions  during  the  growth  and  ripening  of  the  fruit,  when  the 
free  acid  is  gradually  diminished  and  the  sugar  considerably  augmented  in  quantity.  The 
sugar  varies  in  amount  between  12  and  30  per  cent.,  the  larger  quantity  being  produced 
in  warm  climates.  It  is  obvious  from  this  that  the  treatment  of  the  grape-juice  for  the 
production  of  wine  must  vary  under  different  circumstances  and  in  different  countries. 
The  grapes  are  crushed  and  the  juice  fermented  in  the  presence  of  the  husks,  or  the 
juice,  called  must , is  fermented  by  itself,  in  which  case  a light-colored  wine  is  obtained. 
Red  wines  are  made  by  fermenting  with  husks  and  seeds,  called  the  marc , of  red  or  purple 
grapes.  In  a short  time  after  the  must  has  been  pressed,  fermentation  commences,  and 
continues  for  two  or  three  weeks,  when  the  liquid  becomes  somewhat  clear,  and  is  removed 
from  the  precipitate  into  another  vessel,  where  a slow  fermentation,  called  the  after-fermen- 
tation, proceeds  for  several  weeks  or  months,  requiring  the  occasional  removal  of  the  liquid 
from  the  sediment  formed,  until  it  is  fit  to  be  transferred  into  casks,  where  it  is  allowed 
to  “ ripen.”  The  best  wines  are  usually  bottled  some  time  after  they  have  become  per- 
fectly clear,  the  complete  clarification  being  effected  by  gelatin,  which,  in  combining  with 
the  tannin  present,  forms  an  insoluble  compound,  carrying  down  with  it  all  traces  of 
yeast  and  other  matters  held  in  suspension.  The  “bouquet”  of  wine  is  much  improved 
after  bottling,  and  red  wines,  which  do  not  contain  a large  amount  of  tannin,  become 
darker,  while  wines  rich  in  tannin  form  a deposit  in  the  bottle  and  become  lighter  in 
color. 

The  conditions  under  which  fermentation  takes  place,  and  the  results,  are  explained  on 
page  147.  In  the  presence  of  the  numerous  constituents  of  grapes  odorous  principles  are 
generated  during  fermentation,  to  which  wines  owe  their  peculiar  aroma  or  bouquet.  If 
the  must  contains  a moderate  quantity  of  sugar,  this  is  entirely  or  nearly  decomposed 
into  alcohol  and  carbon  dioxide,  resulting  in  a dry  wine.  But  in  a strongly  saccharine 
must  fermentation  ceases  before  the  sugar  is  completely  consumed,  and  the  product  is  a 
sweet  wine  (vin  de  liqueur,  Fr.f  In  some  cases  the  amount  of  sugar  in  the  juice  is 
increased  by  exposing  the  cut  ripe  grapes  for  some  time  to  the  sun  until  a portion  of  the 
water  has  evaporated,  or  by  concentrating  a portion  of  the  juice  before  fermentation.  As 
the  alcohol  increases  during  the  fermentation  of  the  must,  the  acid  potassium  tartrate 
becomes  less  soluble  and  is  gradually  deposited,  the  deposition  continuing  for  some  time 
after  the  storing  of  the  wine  in  casks. 

If  wine  is  bottled  before  it  has  undergone  the  after-fermentation,  a sparkling  wine  will 
be  obtained.  The  fermentation  will  slowly  proceed  in  the  bottle,  which  is  placed  upside 
down,  so  that  the  precipitate  which  forms  may  settle  in  the  neck,  and  may  be  finally 
withdrawn  by  carefully  removing  the  stopper  and  quickly  replacing  it.  The  efferves- 
cence of  sparkling  wines  is  produced  by  the  carbon  dioxide  confined  in  the  bottle. 

Improving. — This  term  is  used  to  include  all  those  manipulations  designed  to  pre- 
serve wine  or  render  it  more  pleasing  in  appearance  and  taste  by  the  addition  of  alcohol, 
glycerin,  coloring  matter,  sugar,  and  other  substances.  In  many  cases  so-called  “improv- 
ing ” must  be  considered  to  be  merely  adulteration  ; but  from  the  natural  variation  of  the 
composition  of  grape-juice  it  is  sometimes  desirable  to  correct  an  excess  or  deficiency  of 
one  or  more  constituents,  and  for  this  purpose  the  following  processes  have  been  sug- 
gested : 

1.  Gypsum  is  largely  employed  in  some  parts  of  Europe  as  an  addition  to  the  must, 
for  the  purpose  of  hastening  the  clarification  of  wine,  which  then  contains  potassium  sul- 
phate in  the  place  of  bitartrate. 

2.  Chaptal  (1800)  proposed  the  removal  of  excessive  acidity  by  marble  and  the  addi- 
tion of  sugar  to  the  must. 

3.  Gall  proposed  to  correct  excessive  acidity  by  the  addition  to  the  must  of  sugar  and 
water,  whereby,  evidently,  an  acid  grape-juice  is  made  to  yield  a correspondingly  larger 
amount  of  wine. 

4.  Petiot  (1859)  suggested  the  utilization  of  the  marc  left  on  expressing  the  must,  by 


VINUM  ALBUM. 


1699 


fermenting  with  it  a solution  of  sugar,  the  product  being  either  sold  as  wine  or  mixed 
with  other  wines. 

5.  Liebig  (1848)  suggested  the  removal  of  free  acid  by  the  addition  of  a concentrated 
solution  of  potassium  tartrate  in  such  proportion  as  to  form  bitartrate,  which  will  be 
deposited  from  the  wine. 

6.  To  render  weak  wines  stronger  without  foreign  additions,  Melsens  (1873)  intro- 
duced the  freezing  process,  whereby  a portion  of  the  water  is  removed  in  the  form  of 
ice. 

7.  Pasteur's  method  consists  in  the  heating  of  wine  to  from  50°  to  65°  C.  (122°-149° 
F.),  air  being  excluded,  for  the  purpose  of  destroying  fungoid  germs  and  rendering  the 
wine  more  permanent. 

Properties. — As  a class,  white  wines  are  distinguished  from  red  wines  by  the 
absence  of  red  coloring  matter  and  of  notable  quantities  of  tannin,  though  minute  pro- 
portions of  this  compound  are  usually  present.  They  are  never  colorless,  but  vary  in 
shade  between  pale-yellow  and  deep-amber  color. 

Sherry  ivine  (Vinum  Xericum,  Br. ; V.  Xerense,  P.  G.  1872)  has  a rather  deep- 
amber  color,  an  agreeable  vinous  odor,  and  a warm  and  very  slightly  acid  taste. 
We  found  (1886)  its  specific  gravity  to  range  between  0.978  and  0.995,  and  its  average 
alcoholic  strength  to  be  20.34  volumetric  per  cent.  ; the  sugar  and  extractive  averaged 
3.27  (highest  5.3)  per  cent,  in  67  samples  examined.  Similar  wines  are  produced  in 
various  parts  of  Spain,  Portugal,  the  Canaries,  and  Madeira,  several  of  which  are  met 
with  in  our  commerce.  Lisbon  wine  has  a density  of  about  0.990,  and  contains  19  or  20 
per  cent,  of  alcohol.  Tenerijfe  wine  closely  resembles  the  preceding  in  properties.  A 
stronger  wine  is  Madeira  wine , which  usually  contains  between  19  and  22  per  cent,  of 
alcohol ; it  has  a different  somewhat  nutty  flavor. 

Wines  of  similar  strength  in  alcohol  are  also  made  in  Italy  ( Marsala ),  Greece  (vino 
santo),  and  the  Cape  Colony  ( Constantia ).  Southern  France  produces  wines  containing 
14  to  16  per  cent,  of  alcohol,  of  which  those  of  Lunel  and  Grenache  are  ordered  by  the 
Codex.  Burgundy  wines  are  of  about  the  same  strength.  Very  sweet  wines,  rich  in 
alcohol,  are,  among  others,  Tokay  (Hungary),  La.chrymse  Christi  (Italy),  and  Malaga 
(Spain). 

The  white  Rhenish  wines  are  known  here  as  hock  (from  Hochheimer).  They  have  a 
more  acidulous  taste  than  the  preceding  wines,  from  the  presence  of  acid  potassium 
tartrate  and  the  nearly  total  absence  of  sugar.  They  are  of  a pale-yellow  color,  and 
usually  contain  between  8 and  10  per  cent,  of  alcohol.  Moselle  wine  is  nearly  of  the  same 
strength.  The  French  wines,  both  white  and  red,  are  required  to  contain  about  10  per 
cent,  of  alcohol  (F.  Cod.'). 

The  white  wines  of  the  Mississippi  and  Ohio  Valleys  and  the  California  wines  resemble 
the  wines  of  Central  and  Southern  Europe  in  appearance,  flavor,  and  alcoholic  strength  ; 
the  weaker  varieties  of  the  latter,  which  are  known  as  California  hock , have  not  the  fine 
bouquet  of  the  better  qualities  of  Rhenish  wines,  but  the  quality  of  American  wines  has 
considerably  improved  of  late  years. 

The  sparkling  champagne  wines  contain  between  10  and  12  per  cent,  of  alcohol. 

Constituents. — The  principal  constituents  of  all  wines  are  water  and  alcohol.  The 
amount  of  the  latter  present  in  different  wines  has  been  given  above.  The  acidulous 
taste  of  wine  is  due  to  acid  potassium  tartrate , and  small  quantities  of  acetic  acid  are 
met  with  in  old  wines,  resulting  from  the  spontaneous  oxidation  of  alcohol.  A somewhat 
larger  proportion  of  acetic  acid  is  usually  present  in  the  wine  of  the  Eastern  section  of 
the  United  States.  The  amount  of  sugar  varies  considerably  : while  the  weaker  dry 
wines  contain  none  or  but  very  little,  it  is  found  in  sherry  to  the  extent  of  from  1 to  5 
per  cent.,  increases  in  champagne  sometimes  to  5 or  6 per  cent.,  in  port  wine  to  6 or  7 
per  cent.,  and  in  the  sweet  wines,  like  Malmsey  Madeira , to  11  or  15  per  cent,  or  more. 
The  “body’  of  wine  has  been  ascribed  by  Faure  to  a principle  which  he  named  cenan- 
thin , and  which  is  probably  of  the  nature  of  gum  or  dextrin.  Tannin  seems  to  be  pres- 
ent in  all  wines — in  minute  proportion  in  the  white,  and  in  larger  proportion  in  the  red 
wines.  The  coloring  matter  of  wine  varies  for  causes  stated  above  ; the  color  of  red  grapes 
is  not  soluble  in  water,  but  is  extracted  during  fermentation  as  the  alcohol  increases. 
The  aroma  of  wine  is  doubtless  due  to  the  presence  of  various  compound  ethers  formed 
in  the  juice  while  fermenting.  These  exist  in  very  minute  quantities,  and  have  for  this 
reason  not  been  accurately  examined  ; but  the  following  have  been  stated  to  contribute 
to  the  aromatic  odor  of  wine : acetic,  butyric,  caprylic,  caproic,  oenanthic,  pelargonic, 
capric,  and  propionic  ethers,  besides  aldehyde,  acetal,  and  probably  other  compounds. 


1700 


VINU31  ALBUM. 


The  inorganic  constituents  of  wine  are  the  same  as  those  of  grape-juice,  except  that  cal- 
cium tartrate  and  the  greater  portion  of  acid  potassium  tartrate  have  been  deposited ; 
the  ash  varies  between  about  .1  and  .5  per  cent. 

The  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia  not  only  permits,  but  evidently  encourages,  the  use  of  native 
wines,  provided  they  be  pure  and  contain  between  10  and  14  per  cent,  by  weight  of  abso- 
lute alcohol.  From  causes  explained  before,  the  composition  of  wines  made  from  the 
same  variety  of  grape  grown  in  different  localities,  or  from  different  vintages  in  the  same 
locality,  must  be  expected  to  vary  to  some  extent ; every  quantitative  analysis  of  wine, 
therefore,  refers  only  to  the  sample  examined.  A large  number  of  American  wines  have 
been  analyzed  by  Prof.  H.  B.  Parsons,  which,  classified  in  principal  groups,  show  the 
following  results  for  100  parts  of  white  wines : 


51  Dry  Wines. 

7 Sherry  Wines. 

22  Sweet  Catawba, 
Angelica,  etc. 

15  Sparkling  Wines. 

hC 

c3 

< 

Highest. 

Lowest. 

Average. 

oq 

<D 

A 

be 

S 

Lowest. 

Average. 

Highest. 

<5 

£ 

o 

►4 

Average. 

Highest. 

Lowest. 

1 

Specific  gravity . . 

.9926 

1.0105 

.9845 

.9974 

1.0074 

.9873 

1.0318 

1.0515 

.9948 

1.0255 

1.0402 

1.0174 

Alcohol,  per  cent., 

weight ... 

9.35 

13.94 

7.03 

15.47 

20.09 

12.84 

11.46 

17.33 

8.48 

8.28 

10.02 

6.24 

Alcohol,  per  cent., 

volume  .... 

11.70 

17.37 

8.80 

19.43 

25.17 

16.15 

14.85 

22.46 

10.82 

10.64 

12.96 

8.01 

Total  residue  . . 

1.75 

2.64 

1.18 

4.84 

6.83 

1.95 

12.67 

18.04 

3.39 

9.74 

13.31 

7.78 

Total  ash  .... 

; .181 

.335 

.090 

.270 

.479 

.166 

.171 

.371 

.101 

.130 

.164 

.102 

Glucose  

trace. 

.300 

none. 

2.86 

4.84 

.61 

10.57 

16.94 

! 1.31 

8.28 

12.02 

6.60 

Total  acid,  as  tar- 

1 

taric  

.680 

.855 

.422 

.616 

.721 

.476 

.546 

.925 

.331 

.725 

.885 

.501 

Fixed  acid,  as  tar- 

taric   

.313 

.121 

.277 

.418 

.209 

.313 

.465 

.234 

.425 

.626 

.322 

Volatile  acid,  as! 

acetic 

.294 

.508 

.068 

.263 

.380 

.164 

.208 

.463 

.046 

.252 

.472 

.119 

One  sweet  wine  (Muscatel)  contained  25.37  per  cent,  of  glucose  and  31.34  per  cent,  of 
total  residue. 

Changes. — Like  other  weak  alcoholic  liquids,  wine  is  apt  to  undergo  acetic  fermenta- 
tion, which  is  prevented  by  excluding  atmospheric  oxygen.  Mucous  fermentation 
causes  wine  to  become  ropy  ; white  wines  are  subject  to  this  change  more  than  red  wines, 
caused  by  the  presence  of  insufficient  tannin  in  the  must  for  precipitating  all  the  albu- 
minoids. Some  wines,  like  Burgundy,  are  liable  to  acquire  a bitter  taste,  and  occasionally 
wine  becomes  mouldy.  Scrupulous  cleanliness  of  the  vessels  in  which  wine  is  kept  and 
exclusion  of  air  will  prevent  most  of  these  changes. 

Tests. — With  the  exception  of  the  U.  S.  P.,  none  of  the  pharmacopoeias  give  any 
tests  for  determining  the  quality  of  wine,  which  is  directed  to  be  ascertained  as  follows : 
“ White  wine  should  have  a full,  fruity,  agreeable  (and  red  wine  a moderately  astringent) 
taste,  without  excessive  sweetness  or  acidity,  and  it  should  have  a pleasant  odor,  free 
from  yeastiness.  Its  sp.  gr.  at  15.6°  C.  (60°  F.)  should  not  be  less  than  0.990  (red 
wine  0.989)  nor  more  than  1.010.  If  10  Cc.  of  white  wine  be  diluted  with  an  equal 
volume  of  distilled  water  and  treated  with  5 drops  of  test-solution  of  ferric  chloride, 
only  a faint,  greenish-brown  color  should  make  its  appearance  (absence  of  more  than 
traces  of  tannic  acid)  (with  red  wine  the  liquid  should  acquire  a brownish-green  color, 
due  to  tannic  acid).  Upon  evaporation  and  twelve  hours’  drying  on  the  water-bath  it 
should  leave  a residue  of  not  less  than  1.5  per  cent,  nor  more  than  3.0  per  cent,  (red 
wine  between  1.8  and  3.5  per  cent.).  Using  phenolphtalein  test-solution  as  an  indicator, 
50  Cc.  of  white  wine  should  require  for  complete  neutralization  not  less  than  3 nor  more 
than  5.2  Cc.  of  the  normal  volumetric  solution  of  potassium  hydroxide  (limit  of  free 
acid).  Tested  by  the  following  method,  white  (and  red)  wine  should  contain  not  less 
than  10  per  cent,  nor  more  than  14  per  cent.,  by  weight  (equivalent  to  12.4  to  17.3  per 
cent,  by  volume),  of  absolute  alcohol : Take  the  specific  gravity  (to  four  decimals)  of 
a sufficient  portion  of  the  white  wine  at  the  temperature  of  15.6°  C.  (60°  F.),  evaporate 
the  wine  in  a tared  capsule  to  one-third  of  its  original  weight,  cool,  and  add  water  until 
the  liquid  measures  its  original  volume  at  15.6°  C.  (60°  F.) ; then  take  the  specific 
gravity  (to  four  decimals)  again.  The  difference  between  the  two  specific  gravities, 
deducted  from  1.0000,  corresponds  to  the  specific  gravity  of  an  alcohol  containing  the 
same  percentage  of  absolute  alcohol,  by  weight  or  volume,  as  the  wine  under  examina- 


V1NVM  ALBUM. 


1701 


tion,  the  corresponding  percentage  being  ascertained  by  referring  to  the  alcoholometric 
tables*. — U.  S. 

Aside  from  the  coloring  matter,  the  requirements  and  tests  of  the  Pharmacopoeia  are 
alike  for  white  and  red  wine,  with  slight  modifications  for  the  latter,  as  indicated  above. 
Wines  from  fruit  other  than  the  grape,  and  artificial  or  sophisticated  wines,  may  corre- 
spond closely  with  the  above  requirements.  For  the  detection  of  such  the  following  brief 
summary  from  the  observations  of  Prof.  Nessler  will  be  useful : By  far  the  largest  num- 
ber of  dry  grape-wines  contain  between  1.6  and  2.2  per  cent,  of  solid  matter  ; this  is  con- 
veniently estimated  by  evaporating  the  alcohol  and  diluting  the  residue  with  water  to  the 
original  volume,  when  the  liquid  should  have  the  specific  gravity  1.007  or  1.008,  and 
should  not  be  less  than  1.005.  Grape-wines  contain  no  citric  acid  and  little  or  no  free 
tartaric  acid.  The  latter  is  best  detected  by  agitating  the  wine  with  powdered  potassium 
bitartrate  until  saturated,  and  adding  to  the  filtrate  potassium  acetate,  when  in  the  pres- 
ence of  free  tartaric  acid  a precipitate  will  be  produced.  Most  pure  wines  yield  a pre- 
cipitate with  tartaric  acid,  proving  the  presence  of  potassium  salts  other  than  bitartrate. 
To  detect  citric  acid  add  to  the  wine  an  excess  of  lime,  filter,  acidulate  with  acetic  acid, 
add  excess  of  barium  chloride,  filter  from  the  barium  sulphate,  and  add  excess  of  ammo- 
nia, when  barium  citrate  will  be  precipitated.  For  the  detection  of  free  sulphuric  acid 
strips  of  filtering-paper  about  30  Cm.  (12  inches)  long  are  suspended  in  such  a manner 
that  the  lower  end  dips  into  the  wine,  which  is  gradually  absorbed  and  evaporates  from 
the  upper  part,  where  the  extractive  matters  and  sulphuric  acid  become  more  concen- 
trated ; after  twenty-four  hours  the  paper  is  carefully  dried,  and  then  heated  to  100°  C. 
(212°  F.),  when  the  portion  charged  with  extractive  becomes  brown  or  black  and  fre- 
quently brittle  from  the  free  sulphuric  acid,  the  reaction  being  more  delicate  in  the  pres- 
ence of  0.1  or  0.2  per  cent,  of  sugar.  The  brown-yellow  coloring  matter  of  wine  con- 
taining a little  tannin  is  precipitated  on  agitation  with  egg  albumen,  while  the  color 
produced  by  caramel  is  not  altered. 

Winckler  stated  that  cider  and  other  fruit-wines  contain  lactic  acid  and  calcium  lactate, 
which  are  not  found  in  grape-wine.  Tuchschmid  (1870)  found  the  amount  of  calcium 
carbonate  obtainable  in  the  ashes  of  grape-wine  never  to  exceed  0.049  per  cent.,  while 
other  fruit- wines  yield  between  0.11  and  0.40  per  cent,  of  the  same  salt.  The  amount 
of  sulphates  in  wine  varies  in  most  cases,  so  as  to  represent  between  .01  and  .03  per  cent, 
of  sulphuric  acid;  Nessler  found  occasionally  .11  per  cent.  Wines  treated  with  gypsum 
contain  a larger  quantity. 

The  determination  of  alcohol  is  usually  effected  by  one  of  the  two  following  methods : 
A definite  quantity  of  wine  is  distilled  by  means  of  a water-bath  until  one-half  of  the 
liquid  has  passed  over  ; the  distillate  is  diluted  with  distilled  water  to  the  original  volume 
or  weight  of  the  wine,  when  its  specific  gravity  indicates  the  alcoholic  strength ; or,  the 
residue  in  the  still  is  diluted  with  water  to  the  original  volume  or  weight  of  the  wine  ; its 
specific  gravity  is  now  ascertained,  and  from  this  figure  is  deducted  the  specific  gravity 
of  the  wine;  the  difference,  representing  the  solid  constituents,  is  deducted  from  1.000 
(density  of  water),  and  the  figure  thus  obtained  gives  the  density  of  the  alcohol  present. 
The  method  adopted  by  the  Pharmacopoeia  is  a modification  of  the  last  one  described, 
and  was  suggested  by  Prof.  Parsons.  A number  of  instruments  have  been  constructed 
by  means  of  which  the  alcoholic  strength  may  be  determined  either  from  the  pressure  or 
the  heat  of  the  vapors  of  the  boiling  liquid  ; volatile  acids,  if  present,  must  be  previously 
neutralized. 

Action  and  Uses. — Wine,  including  all  forms  of  genuine  wine,  is  essentially  a 
stimulant  of  the  nervous  and  circulatory  systems,  but  its  mode  of  stimulation  is  unlike 
that  of  mere  alcohol.  In  due  proportion  it  gives  to  all  the  faculties  increased  activity 
and  freedom  of  action,  quickening  and  brightening  the  intellect  and  the  imagination, 
warming  the  feelings,  invigorating  the  digestive  powers,  and  diffusing  a cordial  satis- 
faction throughout  the  whole  being.  Distilled  spirits,  on  the  other  hand,  tend  to 
benumb  the  faculties  even  while  stimulating  them,  so  that  they  seem  to  be  struggling 
under  a brute  force;  the  exhilaration  they  produce  is  usually  fierce  or  maudlin,  and 
they  leave  behind  them  a dull  and  inert  dejection.  (See  Alcohol.)  As  already  stated, 
the  peculiar  effects  of  wine  are  due  to  the  salts,  acids,  sugar,  and,  above  all,  the  ethe- 
real elements,  in  which  it  abounds,  and  which,  while  they  tend  to  mitigate  the  anaesthe- 
sia produced  by  the  alcohol  of  the  liquid,  ensure  a more  rapid  discharge  of  this  sub- 
stance from  the  system.  The  white  wines,  as  a class,  are  distinguished  by  the  rapidity 
with  which  they  exhilarate  and  intoxicate,  as  well  as  by  the  relatively  transient  cha- 
racter of  the  excitement  they  produce,  and  by  their  marked  diuretic  action.  Most  of 


1702 


VINUM  ALBUM. 


the  red  wines,  and  especially  port  wine,  contain  a portion  of  tannin,  which  retards  their 
absorption,  and  therefore  lessens  their  immediate  stimulant  effects.  They  are,  on  the 
other  hand,  more  or  less  tonic,  and  hence  become  well  adapted  to  the  convalescent 
stages  of  acute  disease  and  to  states  of  chronic  debility.  (See  Yinum  Rubrum.) 
The  effects  of  wine  in  excessive  doses  resemble  more  nearly  those  produced  by  dis- 
tilled spirits,  yet  even  then  they  are  less  extreme  and  debasing.  Its  habitual  use  is 
conducive  to  the  health  of  those  who  drink  it  in  moderation,  and  is  the  best  corrective 
of  the  brutality  and  preventive  of  the  crime  which  everywhere  attend  the  consumption 
of  ardent  spirits.  The  very  quantity  of  it  required  to  produce  intoxication  tends  to 
limit  the  mischiefs  of  its  inordinate  use  ; and  even  when  “ the  sweet  poison  of  the  misused 
wine  ” is  indulged  in  beyond  measure,  its  mischievous  influence  upon  the  health  is  less 
than  that  of  alcohol,  for,  while  the  latter  tends  directly  to  occasion  fatal  disease  of  the 
liver,  heart,  and  kidneys,  the  intemperate  use  of  wine  is  more  apt  to  engender  gout, 
gravel,  and  nervous  affections.  Even  these  results  are  rarely  attributable  to  some  of  the 
wines  which  are  most  largely  used,  as  the  Rhenish,  Austrian,  Hungarian,  Bordeaux,  and 
most  Italian  wines,  both  white  and  red. 

Wine  is  employed  in  the  treatment  of  the  same  form  of  diseases  for  which  distilled 
alcohol  is  appropriate,  but,  according  to  general  usage,  in  the  less  grave  forms,  and  for 
women,  children,  and  old  persons  rather  than  for  adult  men.  The  clearest  indication  for 
its  use  is  furnished  by  adynamic  fevers,  and  most  of  all  typhus  fever , a disease  in  which 
enormous  quantities  of  wine  have  sometimes  been  administered  with  the  most  salutary 
results.  In  a less  degree  it  is  useful  in  typhoid  fever  and  in  all  febrile  affections  which 
assume  the  typhoid  stale , provided  that  symptoms  of  the  following  character  are  present : 
viz.  prostration,  wandering,  delirium,  petechiae,  stupor,  and  brown  tongue ; feebleness, 
irregularity,  dicrotism  or  softness  of  the  pulse ; and  particularly  feebleness  or  absence  of 
the  first  sound  of  the  heart.  When  delirium,  unconsciousness,  and  dryness  of  the 
tongue  have  been  succeeded  by  a state  of  exhaustion,  languor,  and  debility,  with  imper- 
fect sleep  and  anorexia,  the  cordial  operation  of  wine  is  a precious  help  toward  the  cure. 
And  under  these  circumstances  sparkling  wines  are  often  more  acceptable  to  the  stomach 
than  others.  But  it  is  as  true  of  wine  as  of  distilled  spirits,  that  the  necessity  for  it  is 
often  more  apparent  than  real,  and  that  a premature  and  excessive  use  of  it  renders  the 
patient  insensible  to  its  operation  when  it  has  become  essential  to  his  recovery.  We  have 
never  had  such  good  reason  to  be  pleased  with  the  results  of  treatment  in  typhoid  fever 
as  when  in  a large  hospital  service  the  use  of  alcohol  in  this  disease  was  almost  wholly 
omitted. 

During  convalescence  from  many  diseases  wine  taken  with  food  is  often  a potent  aid  to 
recovery,  and  it  is  often  also  of  essential  utility  in  chronic  affections  which  waste  the 
strength  by  profuse  discharges  or  by  pain  or  by  inducing  an  anaemic  condition.  In  all 
of  these  cases  red  wines  are  more  efficacious  than  white.  The  latter,  however,  and  in 
general  the  more  stimulating  wines,  are  best  adapted  to  cases  in  which  a speedy  but  trans- 
ient influence  is  intended,  as  where  syncope  is  imminent  or  the  patient  is  reviving  from 
it  after  powerful  nervous  shocks,  exhausting  fatigue  of  body  or  mind,  severe  pain, 
haemorrhage,  etc.,  and  in  cases  of  debility  of  the  heart  arising  from  structural  altera- 
tions in  it.  In  the  milder  forms  of  delirium  tremens,  especially  as  they  occur  in  females, 
and  notably  in  those  of  the  better  classes,  wine  is  greatly  to  be  preferred  to  distilled 
spirits.  In  some  minor  spasmodic  affections,  as  the  vomiting  of  pregnancy  or  of  sea-sick- 
ness, the  sparkling  wines  are  often  of  great  service.  Infantile  reflex  convulsions  may  fre- 
quently be  prevented  or  mitigated  by  a timely  dose  of  wine  administered  by  the  rectum 
or  the  mouth.  It  is  equally  efficient  in  all  other  affections  in  which  danger  arises  from 
debility  and  its  immediate  consequences,  and  among  them  capillary  bronchitis  may  be  par- 
ticularly noted.  Tetanus  has  been  successfully  treated  by  wine,  and  the  depressing  action 
of  tobacco  and  other  sedatives  of  the  heart  and  nervous  system  may  be  counteracted  by 
its  means. 

It  seems  superfluous  to  say  a word  of  the  special  virtues  of  sherry  wine,  since  it  is 
almost  impossible  to  procure  any  of  it  which  is  pure  and  presents  that  peculiar  “ nutty  ” 
flavor,  and  that  “ dryness,”  or  slight  acidity,  which  at  one  time  were  characteristic  of  it, 
and  which  rendered  it  a valuable  cordial  in  exhaustion  of  the  nervous  system  and  of  the 
heart  and  a wholesome  aid  to  feeble  digestion.  In  England,  where,  more  than  elsewhere, 
it  was  generally  used  by  the  richer  classes,  it  was  regarded  as  especially  appropriate  for 
dyspeptic,  gouty,  and  rheumatic  invalids.  At  present  those  who  prescribe  “ sherry  wine 
should  know  that  there  is  seldom  any  wine  in  the  liquid  at  all,  but  that  it  consists  usually 
of  alcohol,  water,  and  flavoring  ingredients.  It  is  far  better  to  use  medicinally  whiskey 


VINXJM  ALOES.—  VINUM  ANTIMONII. 


1703 


made  from  wheat  or  rye,  which  there  is  less  temptation  for  the  dishonest  dealer  to  adul- 
terate, than  the  mischievous  compounds  sold  under  the  name  of  sherry.  Sherry  is  less 
astringent,  and,  according  to  some  analyses,  slightly  less,  and  according  to  others  slightly 
more,  alcoholic  than  port.  Commercial  sherry  wine  is  less  suited  than  pure  wine  for 
making  wine  wliey,  which  is  prepared  by  adding  the  wine  to  milk  at  the  boiling  tempera- 
ture, in  the  proportion  of  from  2 to  8 fluidounces  of  the  former  to  a pint  of  the  latter, 
straining  off  the  whey  and  sweetening  it.  It  is  a mild  and  slightly  nutritious  stimulant 
much  used  in  cases  of  debility  from  exhaustion  and  in  the  typhoid  state.  Wine  diluted 
with  water  may  be  given  by  enema  with  scarcely  less  advantage  than  by  the  stomach. 
(For  a fuller  description  and  history  of  wines  the  reader  is  referred  to  Stille,  Thera- 
peutics, 4th  ed.,  ii.  710.) 

VINUM  ALOES,  Br.— Wine  of  Aloes. 

Vinum  aloeticum. — Vin  ( (Enole ) aloetique,  Fr.  ; Aloewein,  G. 

Preparation. — Socotrine  aloes  11  oz.  av. ; cardamom-seeds,  freed  from  the  pericarps 
and  bruised,  ginger,  in  coarse  powder,  each  80  grains ; sherry,  sufficient  to  make  2 pints. 
— Br.  Purified  Aloes  6 parts  ; Cardamom  1 part ; Ginger  1 part ; Stronger  White 
Wine  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  100  parts.  Mix  the  aloes,  cardamom,  and  ginger, 
and  reduce  them  to  a moderately  coarse  (No.  40)  powder.  Macerate  the  powder  with  90 
parts  of  stronger  white  wine  for  seven  days,  with  occasional  agitation,  and  filter  through 
paper,  adding,  through  the  filter,  enough  stronger  white  wine  to  make  the  filtered  liquid 
weigh  100  parts. — U.  S.  1880. 

Uses. — This  preparation  is  no  longer  recognized  in  the  U.  S.  Pharmacopoeia,  and  is 
rarely  used,  because,  like  all  liquid  preparations  of  aloes,  its  taste  is  repulsive,  and  the 
pilular  forms  of  the  medicine  are  therefore  more  acceptable.  Yet  it  probably  has  the 
advantage  over  them  of  being  already  a solution,  and  therefore  of  acting  in  a relatively 
smaller  dose  than  aloes  itself.  It  is  useful  in  cases  of  habitual  constipation  from  torpor 
of  the  colon  and  rectum,  especially  when  associated  with  flatulent  dyspepsia,  gout,  or 
amenorrhoea.  Dose,  as  a laxative,  about  Gm.  16  (f3iv). 

VINUM  ANTIMONII,  V.  S.— Wine  of  Antimony. 

Vinum  antimoniale , Br.  ; Vinum  stibiatum , s.  emeticum , P.  G. — Antimonial  wine,  E. ; 
Vin  emetique , Vin  antimonie,  Vin  stibie,  Fr. ; Brechwein,  G. 

Preparation. — Antimony  and  Potassium  Tartrate  4 Gm.  ; Boiling  Distilled  Water 
65  Cc.  ; Alcohol  150  Cc. ; White  Wine  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  the 
alcohol  with  850  Cc.  of  white  wine.  Dissolve  the  antimony  and  potassium  tartrate  in  the 
boiling  distilled  water,  and  add  the  solution  to  the  mixture.  When  the  liquid  is  cold 
filter  it  through  paper,  and  add  enough  white  wine,  through  the  filter,  to  make  the  prod- 
uct measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 pint  of  wine  of  antimony  use  29}  grains  of  antimony  and  potassium  tartrate, 
1 fluidounce  of  boiling  distilled  water,  2\  fluidounces  of  alcohol,  and  sufficient  white  wine 
to  make  16  fluidounces  of  solution. 

Each  Cc.  of  finished  product  contains  0.004  Gm.  (or  1 fluidrachm,  about  } grain)  of 
tartar  emetic. 

Nearly  the  same  proportions  are  the  following:  Tartarated  antimony 40  grains;  sherry 
1 pint  (Imperial). — Br.  Tartar  emetic  1 part ; sherry  250  parts. — P.  G. 

If  made  with  good  wine  and  judiciously  preserved,  antimonial  wine  will  keep  unaltered 
for  a long  time. 

Uses. — The  chief  value  of  antimonial  wine  consists  in  its  being  a convenient  addition 
to  febrifuge  solutions,  and  especially  in  association  with  a liquid  preparation  of  opium 
and  spirit  of  nitrous  ether.  In  such  combinations  it  greatly  promotes  the  diaphoresis 
which  is  a natural  crisis  of  fever.  The  direct  sedatives  of  the  heart  have  no  such  salu- 
tary operation.  In  a like  manner  it  may  be  added  to  mixtures  for  promoting  expectora- 
tion in  febrile  affections  of  the  air-passages,  as  in  the  officinal  compound  liquorice  mixture. 
It  should  seldom  be  used  as  an  emetic,  for  its  action  in  children  is  too  depressing,  and  for 
adults  the  necessary  dose  of  it  is  such  that  the  stimulant  action  of  the  wine  counteracts 
the  sedative  or  nauseant  operation  of  the  antimonial.  As  a febrifuge  and  expectorant 
the  dose  of  antimonial  wine  is  about  Gm.  0.60  (gtt.  x),  repeated  at  longer  or  shorter 
intervals  according  to  its  effects.  This  dose  is  preferable  to  the  larger  ones  generally 
recommended. 


1704 


VINUM  A R OMA TlCUM. — VIN UM  COLCHICI  SEMINIS. 


VINUM  AROMATICUM,  77.  8.  1880,  F.  Cod.- Aromatic  Wine. 

Vin  ( CEnole)  aromatique,  Fr.  ; Krauterwein , G. 

Preparation. — Lavender  1 part ; Origanum  1 part ; Peppermint  1 part ; Rosemary 
1 part  ; Sage  1 part;  Wormwood  1 part;  Stronger  White  Wine  a sufficient  quantity;  to 
make  100  parts.  Mix  the  solid  ingredients,  and  reduce  them  to  a coarse  (No.  20)  powder. 
Moisten  the  powder  with  4 parts  of  stronger  white  wine,  pack  it  moderately  in  a conical 
glass  percolator,  and  gradually  pour  enough  stronger  white  wine  upon  it  to  make  the  fil- 
tered liquid  weigh  100  parts. — U . S.  1880. 

This  is  equivalent  to  the  preparation,  somewhat  simplified,  of  the  old  French  Codex. 
The  present  Codex  orders  vulnerary  tincture  1 part,  red  wine  7 parts. 

Tinctura  yulneraria,  Alcoolature  (Teinture)  vulneraire,  F.  Cod.,  is  made  by  mace- 
rating 100  Gm.  each  of  the  fresh  leaves  and  tops  of  eighteen  plants,  including  the  six  of 
the  above  formula,  and  3000  Gm.  of  alcohol  sp.  gr.  0.863. 

Uses. — Aromatic  wine  (omitted  from  Pharm.  1890)  is  designed  for  topical  purposes 
only.  It  represents  a class  of  preparations  which  were  formerly  in  common  use  as  vul- 
neraries,  either  as  applications  to  recent  wounds  or  to  stimulate  indolent  ulcers.  An  almost 
identical  preparation  was  used  by  R.icord  as  a dressing  for  chancres , and  is  now  officinal 
in  France.  It  is  applied  on  charpie.  The  old  aromatic  wine  of  the  French  Codex  con- 
tained, besides  the  herbs  above  enumerated,  angelica,  fennel,  hyssop,  rosemary,  rue, 
thyme,  etc.,  and  was  infused  in  red  wine. 

VINUM  AURANTH,  Br.— Orange  Wine. 

Wine  made  in  Britain  by  the  fermentation  of  a saccharine  solution  to  which  the  fresh 
peel  of  the  bitter  orange  has  been  added. — Br. 

It  is  a vinous  liquid,  having  a gold-cherry  color  and  a taste  and  aroma  derived  from 
the  bitter  orange-peel.  It  contains  about  12  per  cent,  of  alcohol,  and  is  but  slightly  acid 
to  test-paper. 

Uses. — Orange  wine  is  used  exclusively  as  a flavoring  ingredient  of  mixtures  and  as  an 
excipient  in  certain  British  officinal  preparations. 

VINUM  COLCHICI  RADICIS,  U.  S.— Wine  of  Colchicum-root. 

Vinum  colchici , Br. ; Vinum  de  colchico , F.  Cod. — Vin  ( CEnole)  de  bulbe  de  colchique , Fr. ; 
Zeitlosen Jen ollenwein , G. 

Preparation. —Colchicum-root,  in  No.  30  powder,  400  Gm. ; Alcohol  150  Cc. ; White 
Wine  a sufficient  quantity;  to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  alcohol  with  850  Cc.  of  white 
wine.  Moisten  the  powder  with  100  Cc.  of  the  menstruum,  pack  it  moderately  in  a coni- 
cal glass  percolator,  and  gradually  pour  upon  it,  first,  the  remainder  of  the  menstruum, 
and  afterward  enough  white  wine  to  make  the  product  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 pint  of  wine  of  colchicum-root  use  6 av.  ozs.  and  300  grains  of  powdered  col- 
chicum-root, and  moisten  with  3i  fluidounces  of  the  menstruum  (alcohol  15  volumes, 
white  wine  85  volumes). 

Colchicum,  sliced,  dried,  and  bruised,  4 oz.  av. ; sherry  sufficient  to  make  1 pint  (Impe- 
rial).— Br.  Fresh  colchicum-root  100  Gm.,  strong  wine  (vin  de  Grenache)  1000  Gm. — 
F.  Cod. 

This  preparation  is  recognized  in  Great  Britain  as  wine  of  colchicum,  under  which  name 
in  the  United  States  the  wine  of  colchicum-seeds  is  usually  understood.  Owing  to  the 
deterioration  of  colchicum-tuber  when  long  kept,  the  preparation  is  apt  to  be  deficient  in 
strength,  since  the  drug  cannot  be  at  all  times  obtained  fresh  or  recently  dried. 

Uses. — This  preparation,  which  is  believed  to  possess  all  the  virtues  of  colchicum,  may 
be  prescribed  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.60  (npx),  and  gradually  increased. 

VINUM  COLCHICI  SEMINIS,  77.  S.— Wine  of  Colchicum-seed. 

Vinum  colchici,  P.  G. — Vin  ( CEnole ) desemence  de  colchique , Fr. ; Zeitlosensamenwein,(j. 

Preparation. — Colchicum-seed,  in  No.  30  powder,  150  Gm. ; Alcohol  150  Cc. : 
White  Wine  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  alcohol  with  850  Cc.  of 
white  wine.  Macerate  the  powder  with  900  Cc;  of  the  mixture  during  seven  days  in  a 
closed  vessel,  with  occasional  agitation.  Then  filter  through  paper,  adding,  through  the 
filter,  first,  the  remainder  of  the  menstruum,  and  afterward  enough  white  wine  to  make 
the  product  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 


VINUM  ERGOTM— VINUM  FERRI  AM  ARUM. 


1705 


To  make  1 pint  of  wine  of  colchicum-seed  use  21  av.  ozs.  of  powdered  colchicum- 
seed,  and  macerate  for  seven  days  with  141  fluidounces  of  the  menstruum  (alcohol 
15  volumes,  white  wine  85  volumes);  after  filtration  pass  sufficient  menstruum  through 
the  filter  to  make  16  fluidounces. 

Bruised  colchicum-seed  60  dm.,  strong  wine  1000  Gm. — F.  Cod.  Coarsely  powdered 
colchicum-seed  1 part,  sherry  wine  10  parts. — P.  C. 

In  order  to  extract  the  colchicine  the  seeds  require  to  be  well  bruised.  By  passing 
them  several  times  through  a good  drug-mill,  regulating  at  the  same  time  the  grinding- 
surface,  they  may  be  obtained  of  a sufficiently  fine  powder.  If  a suitable  mill  is  not  at 
hand,  they  should  be  macerated  in  a portion  of  the  wine  for  several  days,  and  be  bruised  in 
a mortar  while  damp.  None  of  the  pharmacopoeias  permit  digestion  of  the  unbroken 
seeds.  10  parts  TJ.  S.  are  equal  to  15  parts  P.  G.  and  25  parts  F.  Cod.  of  this  wine. 

Uses. — The  commencing  dose  is  about  Gm.  2 (f^ss). 

VINUM  ERGOTS,  V.  S.— Wine  of  Ergot. 

Vin  de  seigle  ergote , Fr.  ; Mutter  kornwein,  G. 

Preparation. — Ergot,  recently  ground,  in  No.  30  powder,  150  Gm. ; Alcohol  150 
Cc. ; White  Wine  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  alcohol  with  850  Cc.  of 
white  wine.  Moisten  the  powder  with  40  Cc.  of  the  mixture,  pack  it  moderately  in  a conical 
glass  percolator,  and  gradually  pour  upon  it,  first,  the  remainder  of  the  menstruum,  and 
afterward  enough  white  wine  to  make  the  product  measure  1000  Cc. — TJ.  S. 

To  make  1 pint  of  wine  of  ergot  use  2 i av.  ozs.  of  powdered  ergot,  and  moisten  with 
f fluidounce  of  the  menstruum  (alcohol  15  volumes  and  white  wine  85  volumes). 

Uses. — The  wine  is  less  frequently  employed  than  other  preparations  of  ergot,  but 
may  be  prescribed  in  doses  of  Gm.  4—12  (f^j-iij). 

VINUM  FERRI,  Wine  of  Iron. 

Vinum  chalybeatum , s.  martiatum. — Vin  chalybe , Fr. ; Eisenwein , Stahlwein , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Fine  Iron  Wire  (about  No.  35)  1 ounce ; Sherry  1 pint. 
Macerate  for  thirty  days  in  a closed  vessel,  the  iron  being  almost,  but  not  quite,  wholly 
immersed  in  the  wine,  the  vessel  frequently  shaken,  and  the  stopper  removed ; then  fil- 
ter.— Br. 

The  acid  potassium  tartrate  dissolves  the  iron,  with  the  evolution  of  hydrogen,  result- 
ing in  the  formation  of  ferrous  tartrate  or  of  its  double  salt  with  potassium  tartrate. 
Owing  to  the  variable  acidity  of  different  wines,  and  to  the  necessarily  variable  composi- 
tion of  this  preparation,  it  has  very  properly  been  discarded  by  most  pharmacopoeias,  or 
has  been  replaced  by  one  of  more  definite  strength  in  iron,  like  the  wine  of  citrate  of 
iron. 

Uses. — This  preparation  is  one  of  the  mildest  of  ferruginous  medicines.  It  is,  how- 
ever, quite  as  well  prepared  extemporaneously  by  making  a solution  of  iron  and  potassium 
tartrate  in  sherry  or  Bhenish  wine,  in  the  proportion  of  10  grains  to  the  fluidounce. 
The  dose  of  the  officinal  wine  is  Gm.  4-16  (fgj-iv),  and  of  the  magistral  solution  nearly 
twice  as  much. 

VINUM  FERRI  AM  ARUM,  TJ.  S.— Bitter  Wine  of  Iron. 

Vinum  de  cinchona  martiatum,  F.  Cod.  ; Vinum  chinse  /erratum. — Vin  ( (Enole)  de 
quinquina  ferrugineux , Fr.  ; Chinaeisenwein,  G. 

Preparation. — Soluble  Iron  and  Quinine  Citrate  50  Gm. ; Tincture  of  Fresh  Orange- 
peel,  150  Cc. ; Syrup  300  Cc.  ; White  Wine  a sufficient  quantity;  to  make  1000  Cc. 
Dissolve  the  soluble  iron  and  quinine  citrate  in  500  Cc.  of  white  wine.  Add  to  this  the 
tincture  of  fresh  orange-peel  and  the  syrup,  and,  lastly,  enough  white  wine  to  make  the 
product  measure  1000  Cc.  Set  the  mixture  aside  for  several  days,  then  filter,  and  pass 
enough  white  wine  through  the  filter  to  restore  the  original  volume. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 pint  of  bitter  wine  of  iron  dissolve  365  grains  of  soluble  iron  and  qui- 
nine citrate  in  8 fluidounces  of  white  wine;  add  2\  fluidounces  of  tincture  of  fresh 
orange-peel,  5 fluidounces  of  syrup,  and  sufficient  white  wine  to  make  16  fluidounces  of 
solution. 

Each  Cc.  of  the  finished  product  contains  0.05  Gm.  (or  1 fluidrachm  nearly  3 grains) 
of  the  soluble  scale  salt  of  iron  and  quinine. 


1706 


VINVM  FERRI  CITR A TIS. - VINUM  IPECACUANHA. 


This  an  adaptation  of  the  formula  adopted  by  the  American  Pharmaceutical  Associa- 
tion in  1875,  and  resembles  that  of  the  old  French  Codex,  but  contains  more  iron.  The 
uew  French  Codex  directs  2 Grm.  each  of  ferrous  sulphate  and  citric  acid  to  be  dissolved 
in  10  Gm.  of  boiling  water,  and  this  solution  added  to  990  Gm.  of  wine  of  pale  cin- 
chona. 

Uses. — This  solution  contains  in  each  fluidrachm  nearly  3 grains  of  the  soluble 
citrate  of  iron  and  quinine.  It  is  a mild  preparation,  but  is  very  efficient  in  cases 
of  moderate  anaemia  and  debility.  The  ordinary  dose  is  Gm.  4—8  (f^j-ij). 

VINUM  FERRI  CITRATIS,  Z7.  S.9  lit*. — "Wine  of  Ferric  Citrate. 

Vinum  chalybeatum , F.  Cod. — Vin  chalybe , Vin  ( (Enole ) ferrugineux , Fr.  ; Eisenwein,  G. 

Preparation. — Iron  and  Ammonium  Citrate  40  Gm.  ; Tincture  of  Fresh  Orange-peel 
150  Cc. ; Syrup  100  Cc. ; White  Wine  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Dissolve 
the  iron  and  ammonium  citrate  in  700  Cc.  of  white  wine.  Add  to  this  the  tincture  of  fresh 
orange-peel  and  the  syrup,  and,  lastly,  enough  white  wine  to  make  the  product  measure 
1000  Cc.  Set  the  mixture  aside  for  several  days,  then  filter,  and  pass  enough  white  wine 
through  the  filter  to  restore  the  original  volume. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 pint  of  wine  of  ferric  citrate  dissolve  292  grains  of  iron  and  ammonium 
citrate  in  11  fluidounces  of  white  wine  ; add  21  fluidounces  of  tincture  of  fresh  orange- 
peel,  If  fluidounces  of  syrup,  and  sufficient  white  wine  to  make  16  fluidounces  of 
solution. 

Each  Cc.  of  the  finished  product  contains  0.04  Gm.  (or  1 fluidrachm  about  2\  grains) 
of  iron  and  ammonium  citrate. 

Dissolve  citrate  of  iron  and  ammonia  160  grains  in  orange  wine  1 pint  (Imperial),  and 
after  three  days  filter. — Br. 

Citrate  of  iron  and  ammonia  5 Gm.,  strong  wine  (vin  de  Grenache)  1000  Gm. — F.  Cod. 

Uses. — The  wine  of  citrate  of  iron  has  nearly  the  same  qualities  as  wine  of  iron,  and, 
like  it,  may  be  used  when  the  stomach  is  irritable.  The  dose  is  Gm.  4-16  (fjj-iv). 

VINUM  IPECACUANHA,  U.  S.,  Br JP.  G.— Wine  of  Ipecac. 

Vin  d'ipecacuanha , Fr.  ; Brechwurzelwein , G. 

Preparation. — Fluid  Extract  of  Ipecac  100  Cc. ; Alcohol  100  Cc. ; White  Wine 
800  Cc.  ; to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  them.  Set  the  mixture  aside  for  a few  days,  then  fil- 
ter.— U.  S. 

To  make  1 pint  of  wine  of  ipecac  mix  1 fluidounce  and  288  minims,  each,  of  fluid 
extract  of  ipecac  and  of  alcohol,  with  sufficient  white  wine  to  make  16  fluidounces.  Each 
Cc.  represents  0.1  Gm.  (or  1 fluidrachm  very  nearly  6 grains)  of  ipecac. 

Macerate  for  a day  ipecacuanha  1 oz.  in  acetic  acid  1 fl.  oz.  ; obtain  with  water  20  oz. 
of  percolate ; evaporate  to  dryness  over  a water-bath  ; powder ; macerate  in  sherry  wine 
1 pint  (Imp.)  for  two  days,  and  filter. — Br.  Ipecac  1 part,  sherry  wine  10  parts. — 
P.  G. 

Uses. — Wine  of  ipecacuanha  contains  all  the  virtues  of  the  drug.  It  is  a very  inap- 
propriate form  for  the  production  of  emesis,  since  the  large  proportion  of  alcohol  con- 
tained in  it  counteracts  the  emetic  operation  of  the  ipecacuanha,  and  may  be  unsuited 
to  the  febrile  elements  of  the  affection  for  which  it  is  prescribed.  This  objection  applies 
less  forcibly  to  its  use  as  a diaphoretic  and  expectorant.  It  is  especially  useful,  when 
associated  with  spirit  of  nitrous  ether,  in  favoring  diaphoresis  in  catarrhal  fever , muscular 
rheumatism , etc.  In  infantile  and  also  in  senile  bronchitis  it  is  very  serviceable  when  the 
bronchial  secretions  obstruct  the  air-passages,  and  when  an  emetic  as  well  as  a stimulant 
operation  is  called  for.  It  may  be  applied  directly  to  the  air-passages  by  means  of  the 
hand-  or  steam-atomizer,  and  in  this  manner  is  very  efficient  in  chronic  bronchitis.  In  the 
vomiting  of  pregnancy  this  preparation,  in  hourly  doses  of  1 drop,  sometimes  arrests  that 
distressing  symptom.  It  is  probable  that  in  doses  nearly  as  small  it  would  be  found  as 
useful  as  powdered  ipecacuanha  has  proved  in  relieving  atonic  dyspepsia  and  chronic  diar- 
rhoea caused  by  intestinal  debility. 

The  dose  of  wine  of  ipecacuanha  as  an  emetic  is  stated  to  be  Gm.  32  (f^j)  for  an 
adult,  and  Gm.  4 (f^j)  for  an  infant,  but,  for  the  reasons  assigned,  it  is  not  eligible  for 
this  purpose.  As  an  expectorant  or  diaphoretic  the  proper  dose  is  Gm.  0.30-0.60 
(gtt.  v-x),  repeated  every  half  hour  or  hour. 


VTNUM  OPII.—  VTNUM  RHEI. 


1707 


VINUM  OPn,  JJ,  S.,  Br. — Wine  op  Opium. 

Vinum  opii  compositum , F.  Cod. ; Tinctura  opii  crocata , P.  G.  ; Laudanum  liquidum 
Sydenhami. — Sydenham' s laudanum , E. ; Laudanum  de  Sydenham , Vin  d' opium  com- 
pose, Fr.  ; Safranhaltige  Opiumtinktur , G. 

Preparation. — Powdered  Opium  100  Gm. ; Cinnamon,  in  No.  00  powder,  10  Gm.  ; 
Cloves,  in  No.  30  powder,  10  Gm. ; Alcohol  150  Cc.  ; White  Wine  a sufficient  quantity  ; 
to  make  1000  Cc.  Mix  the  alcohol  with  850  Cc.  of  white  wine.  To  the  mixed  powders 
add  900  Cc.  of  the  menstruum,  and  macerate  the  mixture  during  seven  days  with  occa- 
sional agitation.  Then  transfer  it  to  a filter,  and  when  the  liquid  has  drained  off  gradually 
pass  through  the  filter,  first  the  remainder  of  the  menstruum,  and  afterward  enough 
white  wine  to  make  the  product  measure  1000  Cc. — U.  S. 

To  make  1 pint  of  wine  of  opium  use  730  grains  of  powdered  opium  and  73  grains 
each  of  cloves  and  cassia  cinnamon  ; macerate  for  seven  days  with  141  fluidounces  of  the 
menstruum  (alcohol  15  volumes,  white  wine  85  volumes).  After  filtration  pass  enough 
menstruum  through  the  filter  to  bring  the  volume  up  to  16  fluidounces. 

Each  Cc.  represents  0.1  Gm.  (or  1 fluidrachm  about  5.7  grains)  of  opium. 

The  U.  S.  P.  requires  that  100  Cc.  of  wine  of  opium,  when  assayed  by  the  process 
given  under  Tinctura  Opii,  shall  yield  from  1.3  to  1.5  Gm.  of  crystallized  morphine. 

Extract  of  opium  1 oz.  av.  ; cinnamon-bark,  bruised,  cloves,  bruised,  each  75  grains; 
sherry  1 pint  (Imperial). — Br. 

Both  pharmacopoeias  have  discarded  the  use  of  saffron,  which  is  still  retained  by  the 
French  and  German  Pharmacopoeias.  Otherwise,  the  preparation  is  now  practically 
identical  as  ordered  by  the  four  pharmacopoeias.  The  wine  has  been  replaced  in  the 
P.  G.  by  a diluted  alcohol.  The  other  formulas  are  : Opium  200,  saffron  100,  Ceylon 
cinnamon  15,  Cloves  15,  wine  1600  Gm. — F.  Cod.  Opium  30,  saffron  10,  Chinese  cinna- 
mon 2,  cloves  2,  alcohol  (sp.  gr.  0.894)  150,  and  water  150  parts. — P.  G.  That  of  the 
French  Codex,  being  made  with  a sweet  wine,  is  denser  (sp.  gr.  1.05  to  1.07)  than  the 
other  preparations.  On  keeping,  this  wine  deposits  some  extractive  matter  and  occasion- 
ally some  narcotine. 

Laudanum  de  Rousseau,  F.  Cod.,  contains  about  one-fourth  its  weight  of  opium,  and 
is  therefore  considerably  stronger  than  the  preceding  : it  is  made  by  fermenting  a mixture 
of  opium  200  Gm.,  honey  600  Gm.,  water  3 liters,  and  beer-yeast  40  Gm.  ; the  filtered 
liquor  is  then  evaporated  to  600  Gm.  and  mixed  with  alcohol  (sp.  gr.  0.913)  200  Gm. 

Uses. — This  preparation,  also  known  as  “ Sydenham’s  laudanum,”  is  much  superior 
to  the  tinctures  of  opium  as  an  internal  medicine,  on  account  of  its  being  less  apt  to 
nauseate  and  less  offensive  in  taste  and  smell.  Gm.  0.60-1  (n^  x to  gtt.  xvj)  may  be 
given  as  a full  dose.  It  is  sometimes  used  as  an  application  to  the  conjunctiva  in  granular 
and  other  chronic  forms  of  inflammation  of  that  membrane. 

VINUM  QUININE,  .Br.— Wine  of  Quinine. 

Vin  de  quinine , Fr. ; Chininwein , G. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Sulphate  of  Quinine  20  grains ; Citric  Acid  30  grains ; 
Orange  Wine  1 pint  (Imperial).  Dissolve  first  the  citric  acid,  and  then  the  sulphate 
of  quinine  in  the  wine ; allow  the  solution  to  remain  for  three  days  in  a closed  vessel, 
shaking  it  occasionally ; and  afterward  filter. — Br. 

Allied  Preparation. — Vinum  de  cinchona,  F.  Cod.  ; Vinum  chinm,  P.  G.  1882.  Tincture  of 
cinchona  100,  glycerin  100,  sherry  wine  300  parts. — P.  G.  1882.  Cinchona  5,  alcohol  (sp.  gr. 
0.913)  10,  red  wine  100  parts. — F.  Cod.  The  latter  formula  is  alike  for  pale,  red,  and  yellow 
cinchona,  and  in  each  case  the  cinchona  wine  may  also  be  prepared  with  a strong  wine  (vin  de 
liqueur),  such  as  Grenache,  Lunel,  Malaga,  Madeira,  and  others,  in  which  case  no  alcohol  is  added. 

Uses. — It  is  difficult  to  perceive  the  advantages  of  this  preparation  over  an  extempo- 
raneous solution  of  the  citrate  of  quinine  in  water.  The  dose  is  Gm.  16-32  (f^iv— %j). 

VINUM  RHEI,  Br, — Wine  of  Rhubarb. 

Tinctura  rhei  vinosa , P.  G. ; Tinctura  rhei  Darelii. — Vin  de  rliuharhe , Fr. ; Weinige  Rha- 
barbertinJctur , G. 

Preparation. — Rhubarb-root,  in  coarse  powder,  11  av.  oz. ; canella-bark,  in  coarse 
powder,  60  grains ; sherry  1 pint.  Macerate  for  seven  days  in  a closed  vessel,  with 
occasional  agitation ; then  strain,  press,  filter,  and  add  sufficient  sherry  to  make  1 pint 


1708 


VINUM  RXJBRUM. 


(Imperial). — Br.  Rhubarb,  in  No.  30  powder,  10  parts;  Calamus,  in  No.  30  powder,  1 
part ; Stronger  White  Wine  a sufficient  quantity  ; to  make  100  parts.  Moisten  the  mixed 
powders  with  5 parts  of  stronger  white  wine,  pack  the  mixture  in  a conical  glass  perco- 
lator, and  gradually  pour  enough  stronger  white  wine  upon  it  to  make  the  filtered  liquid 
weigh  100  parts. — U.  S.  1880. 

Rhubarb  6 parts  ; Grenache  wine  100  parts. — F.  Cod.  Rhubarb,  finely  cut,  8 parts ; 
bitter  orange-peel  2 parts ; cardamom  1 part ; sherry  wine  100  parts ; in  7 parts  of  the 
tincture  dissolve  1 part  of  sugar. — P.  G. 

Uses. — Wine  of  rhubarb  has  the  same  general  virtues  as  the  tincture  of  rhubarb,  but 
is  less  stimulant.  It  may  be  described  as  cordial,  carminative,  and  laxative , and  may  be 
used  by  persons  of  a constipated  habit  and  gouty  constitution,  and  especially  by  females 
who  add  to  these  conditions  scanty  and  painful  menstruation  and  leucorrhcea.  The  dose 
is  Gm.  4-16  (f^j-iv). 

VINUM  RUBRUM,  U.  Red  Wine. 

Vin  rouge,  Fr. ; Rothwein , Gr. ; Vino  tinto , Sp. 

An  alcoholic  liquid  made  by  fermenting  the  unmodified  juice  of  the  fresh,  colored 
fruits  of  Vitus  vinifera  (nat.  ord.  Vitacese)  in  presence  of  their  skins.  When  red  wine  is 
prescribed  without  further  specification,  it  is  recommended  that  a dry  red  wine  of  domes- 
tic production  (such  as  a native  Claret,  Burgundy,  etc.)  be  employed.  Red  wine  should 
be  preserved  in  well-closed,  full  casks  or  in  well-stoppered  bottles  in  a cool  place. — U.  S. 

Origin  and  Description. — The  fruits  of  most  cultivated  varieties  of  the  American 
grapevines  and  of  numerous  varieties  of  the  European  species  have  either  an  amber 
color  or  are  purple,  dark-blue,  or  nearly  black.  The  juice  of  these  grapes  is  colorless  or 
nearly  so,  and  if  fermented  alone  yields  a white  wine,  but  if  fermented  with  the  pericarp 
or  skins  the  coloring  matter  of  the  latter  is  extracted,  and  the  wine  has  a red  color,  vary- 
ing in  shade  with  the  variety  of  grapes,  with  the  quantity  of  skins,  the  length  of  time 
they  have  been  in  contact  with  the  fermenting  liquid,  and  with  the  amount  of  alcohol 
and  acid  present.  Although  many  white  wines  contain  tannin,  taken  up  from  the  peri- 
carp of  the  fruit  or  from  the  seeds,  the  quantity  is  usually  minute  as  compared  with  that 
present  in  red  wines,  and  which  comes  from  the  same  sources.  It  is  obvious,  therefore, 
that  red  wine  agrees  in  properties  and  composition  with  white  wine,  except  so  far  as 
these  are  modified  by  the  red  coloring  matter  and  the  tannin,  the  most  striking  differences 
being  the  deep-red  color,  the  distinctly  astringent  taste,  and  the  effect  produced  by  alkalies, 
ferric  chloride,  lead  acetate,  and  other  reagents,  either  changing  the  color  of,  or  producing 
precipitates  with,  tannin  and  the  coloring  principle. 

Vinum  portense. — Port  wine,  E.;.  Vin  d’Oporto,  Fr. ; Portwein,  G. — This  is  the 
product  of  the  grape  cultivated  in  the  district  near  the  river  Douro  in  Portugal,  and 
is  chiefly  exported  from  Oporto.  When  recently  made  it  is  of  a red  color,  which  by 
age  changes  to  a deep  reddish-brown,  while  at  the  same  time  a considerable  portion  of 
altered  astringent  matter  is  deposited  and  the  wine  acquires  its  full  flavor.  Port  wine  is 
considered  to  be  best  when  about  eight  or  ten  years  old.  As  exported  from  fortugal,  it 
is  always  mixed  with  a certain  quantity  of  spirit,  which  is  added  for  the  purpose  of 
better  preservation ; its  alcoholic  strength  is  thereby  increased  from  18  to  22  per 
cent.  Ripeness  and  strength  are  said  to  be  imparted  to  new  wine  by  adding  brandy 
toward  the  end  of  fermentation,  and  the  product,  particularly  the  cheaper  varieties  of 
port  wine,  is  often  artificially  colored  with  preparations  containing  the  juice  of  elder- 
berries. Port  wine  has  a pleasant  vinous  odor  and  an  agreeable,  warm,  sweetish,  and 
slightly  astringent  taste.  In  the  place  of  true  port  wine  a variety  of  French  wine,  known 
in  commerce  as  Burgundy  port  wine,  is  much  used  in  the  United  States  ; it  resembles  port 
wine  in  appearance  and  flavor,  and  contains  about  14  or  16  per  cent,  of  alcohol.  Cali- 
fornia port  wine  is  very  similar,  and  is  the  product  of  grapevines  originally  obtained  from 
the  port-wine  district  of  Portugal,  and  chiefly  cultivated  in  Los  Angelos  county.  Similar 
wines  are  also  made  in  other  parts  of  the  United  States. 

Claret  is  the  English  name  of  dry  red  wines  containing  a moderate  amount  of  alco- 
hol, and  was  originally  used  for  French  red  wines  ( vin  clairet,  clarified  wine),  but  is  now 
applied  to  many  wines  of  American  growth  from  California,  as  well  as  from  the  Missis- 
sippi Valley  and  eastward  to  the  Atlantic  coast.  Some  of  the  most  esteemed  red  wines 
of  France  are  produced  in  Gironde  and  exported  from  Bordeaux,  and  the  red  wines 
produced  in  other  sections  of  France  have,  like  the  former,  been  known  in  Europe  as 
Bordeaux  wines.  Much  of  the  wine  exported  is  more  or  less  artificial,  and  the  handsome 


VINUM  RUB  RUM. 


1709 


red  color  is  now  sometimes  due  to  maqui-berries , the  fruit  of  Aristolelia  Maqui,  Llleri- 
tier  (nat.  ord.  Tiliacese),  of  which  431,392  kilos  were  exported  from  Chili  to  Europe  in 
1887,  about  three-fourths  of  which  went  to  France  (Kew  Bulletin , Feb.  1890).  (See 
Vinum  Album,  process  of  Petiot  and  Gall  for  wine-improving.) 

Constituents. — In  addition  to  the  constituents  mentioned  elsewhere  (see  Vinum 
Album),  red  wine  contains  tannin,  partly  derived  from  the  casks,  but  mainly  from  the 
seeds  and  integuments  of  the  grape,  and  giving  with  ferric  salts  green-brown  or  green- 
black  precipitates.  The  red  coloring  matter,  oenolin  or  oenolic  acid,  is  a red-brown  or 
purplish-red  powder,  which  is  nearly  insoluble  in  water,  in  carbon  disulphide,  and  in  chlo- 
roform, but  soluble  in  dilute  acids  and  in  alcohol ; it  is  not  unlikely  that  the  coloring 
principles  of  different  grapes  vary,  and  are  more  or  less  modified  by  the  constituents  and 
treatment  of  wine. 

The  following  summary  of  analyses  of  American  red  wines  by  Prof.  H.  B.  Parsons 
shows  the  variation  in  composition : 


64  Dry  Wines. 

12  Port  Wines. 

Average. 

Highest. 

Lowest. 

Average. 

Highest. 

Lowest. 

Specific  gravity 

.9933 

1.0011 

.9894 

1.0261 

1.0508 

1.0116 

Alcohol,  per  cent.,  weight 

8.92 

12.21 

5.71 

13.23 

16.93 

10.25 

“ “ volume 

11.04 

15.21 

7.17 

17.09 

21.89 

13.05 

Total  residue 

2.28 

3.16 

1.65 

11.17 

17.04 

6.89 

Total  ash 

.231 

.532 

.130 

.283 

.355 

.139 

Glucose 

trace. 

.450 

none. 

8.05 

11.80 

4.15 

Total  acid,  as  tartaric 

.723 

.997 

.511 

.632 

.828 

.370 

Fixed  acid,  as  tartaric 

.360 

.646 

.226 

.356 

.600 

.196 

Volatile  acid,  as  acetic 

.290  I 

.517 

.138 

.216 

.386 

.128 

Tests. — The  pharmacopoeial  requirements  as  to  the  quality  of  red  wines  are  practi- 
cally identical  with  those  for  white  wines,  but  additional  tests  are  prescribed  for  ascer- 
taining the  nature  of  foreign  coloring  matters : “ Using  eosin  test-solution  or  fluoresceine 
test-solution  as  indicator,  50  Cc.  of  red  wine  should  require  for  complete  neutralization 
not  less  than  3 nor  more  than  5.2  Cc.  of  normal  potassium  hydroxide  solution  (limit  of  free 
acid).  If  10  Cc.  of  red  wine  be  diluted  with  an  equal  volume  of  water,  and  treated  with 
5 drops  of  ferric  chloride  test-solution,  the  liquid  should  acquire  a brownish -green  color 
(due  to  tannic  acid).  With  lead  acetate  test-solution  red  wine  forms  a heavy  precipitate 
which  may  vary  in  color  from  bluish-green  to  green.  If  2 Cc.  of  red  wine  be-  mixed,  in 
a test-tube,  with  2 drops  of  chloroform  and  4 Cc.  of  normal  potassium  hydroxide  solution, 
and  the  mixture  carefully  heated,  the  disagreeable  odor  of  isonitril  should  not  become 
perceptible  (absence  of  various  aniline  colors).  If  50  Cc.  of  red  wine  be  treated  with  a 
slight  excess  of  ammonia-water,  the  liquid  should  acquire  a green  or  brownish -green 
color ; if  it  be  then  well  shaken  with  25  Cc.  of  ether,  the  greater  portion  of  the  ethereal 
layer  removed,  and  evaporated  in  a porcelain  capsule  with  an  excess  of  acetic  acid  and  a 
few  fibres  of  uncolored  silk,  the  latter  should  not  acquire  a crimson  or  violet  color  (absence 
of  fuchsine).  If  25  Cc.  of  red  wine,  heated  to  about  45°  C.  (113°  F.),  be  well  agitated 
with  25  Grn.  of  manganese  dioxide,  the  liquid  filtered  off  and  acidulated  with  hydrochlo- 
ric acid,  it  should  not  acquire  a red  color  (absence  of  sulpho-fuchsine). 

“ Tested  by  the  following  method,  red  wrine  should  be  found  to  contain  not  less  than  10 
nor  more  than  14  per  cent,  by  weight  (equivalent  to  12.4  to  17.3  per  cent,  by  volume), 
of  absolute  alcohol : Take  the  specific  gravity  (to  four  decimals)  of  a sufficient  portion 
of  the  red  wine  at  the  temperature  of  15.6°  C.  (60°  F.),  evaporate  the  wine  in  a tared 
capsule  to  one-third  of  its  original  weight,  cool,  and  add  water  until  the  liquid  measures 
its  original  volume  at  15.6°  C.  (60°  F.)  ; then  take  the  specific  gravity  (to  four  decimals) 
again.  The  difference  between  the  two  specific  gravities,  deducted  from  1 .0000,  corresponds 
to  the  specific  gravity  of  an  alcohol  containing  the  same  percentage  of  absolute  alcohol, 
by  weight  or  volume,  as  the  wine  under  examination,  the  corresponding  percentage  being 
ascertained  by  referring  to  the  alcoholometric  tables.” — U.  S. 

On  the  gradual  addition  of  ammonia  the  red  color  of  wine  is  changed  to  purple,  blue- 
green,  and  is  destroyed,  with  the  production  of  a brown  tint.  Many  other  organic  coloring 
matters  have  a similar  behavior,  while  others  are  changed  to  purple  (cochineal,  logwood). 
The  precipitate  produced  by  lead  subacetate  is  dingy  gray,  with  a blue  or  green  tint ; the 
age  of  the  wine  and  the  presence  of  tannin  and  other  constituents  influence  the  shade 
of  the  color.  Other  organic  coloring  matters  are  precipitated  by  the  same  reagent  red 


1710 


VIOLA  TRICOLOR 


(Brazil-wood),  green  (elderberries),  or  blue  (logwood).  Similar  shades  of  color  are  pro- 
duced upon  white  filtering-paper  which  has  been  steeped  in  a solution  of  lead  acetate. 
According  to  Andree  (1880),  the  coloring  matter  of  huckleberries  is  identical  with  that 
of  wine,  and  in  order  to  detect  the  addition  of  the  juice  of  these  berries  it  is  necessary 
to  show  the  presence  of  citric  acid.  (See  Vinum  Album.) 

Pastrovich  (1882)  again  recommends  manganese  dioxide,  which  was  originally 
suggested  by  Facen  (1870),  and  states  that,  after  repeated  agitation  with  the  oxide, 
after  fifteen  minutes  genuine  red  wine,  also  wine  colored  with  huckleberries,  elderberries, 
or  cochineal,  becomes  nearly  colorless,  while  the  color  of  Brazil-wood,  logwood,  and  orchil 
changes  to  brownish-yellow,  and  that  of  the  fuchsine  remains  unaltered.  Wine  contain- 
ing only  .002  Gnu  of  fuchsine  to  the  liter,  treated  in  this  manner,  yields  a rose-colored 
filtrate. 

Action  and  Uses. — (The  action  of  the  alcoholic  elements  of  wine  has  been 
treated  of  under  Alcohol  and  Vinum  Album.)  The  essential  difference  between  red 
and  white  wines  consists  in  the  presence  of  tannic  acid  in  the  former,  which  is  derived 
from  the  crushing  of  the  skins  of  purple  grapes  in  the  process  of  manufacturing  wine. 
This  ingredient  is  most  abundant  in  port  and  heavy  Bordeaux  wines,  and  hence  they  and 
the  other  wines  that  resemble  them,  including  several  American  varieties,  differ  from 
white  wines  in  the  relative  slowness  of  their  absorption  from  the  stomach,  and  consequently 
in  their  less  prompt  production  of  intoxication.  Moreover,  from  the  same  cause  they  act 
less  injuriously  upon  the  coats  of  the  stomach.  Bed  wines,  in  general,  have  relatively 
more  of  the  tonic  and  less  of  the  excitant  properties  possessed  by  white  wines,  and  are 
especially  to  be  preferred  to  the  latter  when  a sustained  instead  of  a transient  stimula- 
tion is  desired,  and  when,  in  addition  to  this,  an  astringent  action  is  intended.  Hence  the 
red  wines  are  eminently  the  wines  of  convalescence,  and  are  of  general  use  in  all  cases 
of  excessive  discharges  of  blood,  pus,  etc.  in  which  they  are  not  contraindicated  by  other 
reasons.  Unfortunately,  red  wines  are  more  generally  adulterated  or  factitious  than 
white  wines,  with  the  exception  of  sherry.  In  an  English  manual  for  wine-dealers  it  is 
said : “ To  keep  wine  from  turning  sour  put  in  the  casks  2 pounds  3 ounces  of  small 
shot.”  And,  as  if  this  were  not  villainous  enough,  it  proceeds : “ In  extreme  cases, 
when  all  previous  recipes  have  been  tried  without  any  satisfactory  result,  take  a pinch  of 
oxalic  acid  and  put  it  into  the  bottle  ” (Brit,  and  For.  Med.-Chir.  Rev.,  Apr.  1858,  p.  324). 
Red  wines  are  often  manufactured  out  of  alcoholic  dilutions  colored  by  logwood,  rhatany, 
beets,  litmus,  etc.  Astringency  is  given  them  by  means  of  alum,  oak-  or  willow-bark, 
etc.,  as  is  elsewhere  more  particularly  described. 

The  more  astringent  red  wines  are  used  for  injecting  hydroceles,  the  vagina , urethra , 
etc.  affected  with  chronic  profluvia,  fistulous  sinuses , etc.  But  the  various  astringent 
tinctures  would  answer  equally  well. 

VIOLA  TRICOLOR. — Viola  Tricolor. 

Herba  violse  tricoloris , P.  G.  ; Herba  jacese. — Pansy , Heart1 sease,  E. ; Pensee  sauvage, 
F.  Cod.  ; Stief mutter chen , Freisamkraut , Dreifaltigkeitskraut,  G. ; Trinitaria,  Sp. 

The  wild-grown  flowering  herb  of  Viola  tricolor,  Linne. 

Nat.  Ord. — Violaceae. 

Origin. — The  violets  are  mostly  perennial,  or  rarely  annual  or  biennial,  herbs,  with 
alternate  stipulate  leaves,  and  with  axillary  flowers  having  five  persistent  auriculate 
sepals,  five  somewhat  unequal  petals,  of  which  the  lower  one  is  saccate  or  spurred,  five 
strongly  connivent  stamens,  of  which  the  two  lower  ones  bear  a spurred  nectary  upon 
the  back,  and  one  superior  pistil  with  three  placentas,  ripening  into  a three-valved,  many- 
seeded  capsule ; the  globular  or  ovate  seeds  have  a small  caruncle  and  hard  testa,  and 
contain  a straight  embryo  imbedded  in  fleshy  albumen.  The  species  official  in  the  Phar- 
macopoeia of  1880  is  an  annual  or  biennial  indigenous  to  Europe  and  Northern  Asia, 
naturalized  in  the  United  States,  and  frequently  cultivated  in  many  varieties  as  an  orna- 
mental plant.  Only  the  wild-grown  plant  is  to  be  collected. 

Description. — Pansy  has  a thin,  spindle-shaped  root  and  an  erect  or  ascending 
angular  and  branching,  nearly  smoooth  stem,  10—20  Cm.  (4  to  8 inches)  high.  The 
leaves  vary  between  roundish-cordate  and  oval,  crenate  and  nearly  entire,  are  about  25  Mm. 
(1  inch)  long,  petiolate,  and  have  prominent,  leaf-like,  lyrately-pinnatifid  stipules.  The 
flowers  are  on  long  peduncles,  and  have  the  corolla  partly  yellowish,  blue,  and  purple,  or 
occasionally  variegated  and  longer  than  the  calyx  (variety  vulgaris,  Koch),  or  the  corolla 
scarcely  exceeds  the  calyx,  and  is  yellowish  or  occasionally  partly  purplish  (var.  arvensis, 


VIOLA  TRICOLOR. 


1711 


Murray).  The  last  form  is  the  only  one  recognized  by  the  French  Codex  ; it  is  frequent 
in  sandy  fields  of  North  America,  and  apparently  indigenous.  The  dry  herb  is  inodorous 
and  has  a bitterish,  mucilaginous,  and  slightly  acrid  taste,  the  acridity  residing  mainly  in 
the  root. 

Constituents. — Boullay  (1824)  found  in  the  herb  a yellow  coloring  matter  and 
much  mucilage,  but  no  violine ; Cuseran  (1847),  in  addition  to  these,  sugar,  bitter  prin- 
ciple, resin,  and  potassium  nitrate.  Mandelin  (1879)  detected  free  salicylic  acid  in  this 
plant,  and  subsequently  (1881)  determined  it  to  amount  to  .1068  per  cent,  in  the  wild- 
grown,  air-dry  plant  of  the  variety  arvensis,  while  other  varieties  contained  less,  and  the 
cultivated  plant  only  .043  per  cent.  The  acid  is  obtained  by  agitating  the  aqueous  solu- 
tion of  the  alcoholic  extract  with  ether;  the  petals  contain  a minute  quantity,  the  seeds 
a mere  trace,  of  the  acid.  A salt  of  salicylic  acid  could  not  be  found.  Mandelin  exam- 
ined also  the  yellow  coloring  matter,  which  is  the  glucoside  violaquercitrin , yielding 
with  dilute  acids  3 molecules  of  sugar  and  1 of  quercetin,  besides  a fluorescing  com- 
pound. 

Allied  Species. — Viola  pedata,  Linne , Bird’s  foot  violet.  The  leaves  and  rhizome  were 
formerly  official.  It  grows  in  sandy  .soil  from  the  New  England  States  southward,  and  west- 
ward to  the  Mississippi.  It  has  a short,  erect,  and  truncate  rhizome,  about  25  Mm.  (1  inch) 
long  and  nearly  as  thick,  and  beset  with  slender  rootlets.  The  leaves  are  radical,  smooth, 
pedately  five-  or  seven-parted,  and  have  the  divisions  linear  or  narrowly  spatulate,  and  occasion- 
ally slightly  toothed  at  the  apex.  The  flowers  are  large,  about  25  Mm.  (1  inch)  broad,  beard- 
less, vary  in  color  between  light-blue  and  dark-purple,  and  have  a very  faint  violet  color,  which 
is  observable  only  with  a large  number  of  flowers.  The  leaves  and  flowers  have  a mucilaginous 
and  sweet  taste  ; the  taste  of  the  rhizome  is  mucilaginous,  bitter,  and  somewhat  acrid.  The  plant 
flowers  in  May,  and  frequently  a second  time  in  August  and  September. 

Viola  cucullata,  Alton,  is  the  common  blue  violet  of  North  America,  growing  in  meadows 
and  in  dry  grassy  places  and  open  woods.  The  rhizome  is  spreading,  forms  compact  masses, 
and  is  covered  with  numerous  short  fleshy  branches.  The  leaves  are  very  variable,  heart-shaped 
at  the  base,  with  the  basal  lobes  rolled  up.  The  flowers  are  somewhat  bearded,  light-  or  dark- 
blue,  violet-colored,  or  variegated.  The  variety  V.  palmata  has  the  later  leaves  palmately 
lobed. 

Viola  odorata,  Linne  (Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 25). — Sweet-scented  violet,  E. ; 
Violette  odorante,  Fr.  Cod. ; Marzveilchen,  G.  / Violeta,  Sp. — It  is  indigenous  to  Europe  and 
Northern  Asia,  is  frequently  cultivated,  and  grows  to  a certain  extent  spontaneously  in  various 
parts  of  North  America.  It  has  an  oblique  rhizome  and  produces  long,  filiform  runners.  The 
leaves  are  reniform  or  heart-shaped,  obtuse,  and  crenate.  The  flowers  are  dark-blue  or  sometimes 
whitish,  bearded,  and  have  a very  agreeable  odor.  For  pharmaceutical  purposes  the  dark-blue 
i flowers  alone  are  collected,  deprived  of  the  calyx,  and  only  the  corolla  is  used  in  the  fresh  state 
i for  preparing 

Syrupus  viol.e  odorata,  F.  Cod.  Fresh  violet-petals  10  parts,  boiling  water  20  parts  ; in  21 
! parts  of  the  infusion  dissolve  38  parts  of  sugar. 

The  rhizomes  of  the  perennial,  and  more  particularly  the  acaulescent,  violets  appear  to  contain 
[ violine , which  Boullay  (1828)  obtained  from  all  parts  of  the  sweet-scented  violet,  but  in  largest 
quantity  from  the  rhizome.  It  is  prepared  by  removing  from  the  alcoholic  extract  chlorophyll 
| and  fat  by  means  of  ether,  boiling  the  residue  with  diluted  sulphuric  acid,  adding  to  the  filtrate 
: lead  oxide,  evaporating,  and  exhausting  the  residue  with  strong  alcohol.  Violine  is  a yellowish, 

j bitter,  and  fusible  powder,  which  is  more  readily  soluble  in  water  than  emetine,  but  less  so  in 
alcohol ; is  insoluble  in  ether,  and  appears  to  combine  with  acids  to  not  well-defined  saline  com- 
! pounds.  It  merits  further  investigation.  The  blue  coloring  matter  of  violets  turns  green,  and 
| afterward  yellow,  with  alkalies. 

Anchietea  salutaris,  Saint- Hilaire,  s.  Noisettia  pyrifolia,  Martius.  The  root  of  this  shrub, 
which  is  indigenous  to  Brazil,  is  used  as  a cathartic  and  emetic.  It  is  about  the  thickness  of  a 
I finger,  is  brownish-red,  and  has  a yellowish,  nauseous,  and  bitter  bark,  covering  the  hard  brown- 
ish wood.  Peckolt  (1859)  found  in  the  root  starch,  sugar,  gum,  tannin,  a little  resin,  and  about 
| § per  cent,  of  anchietine , which  forms  crystallizable  salts,  crystallizes  in  straw-colored  needles, 
' is  insoluble  in  ether,  sparingly  soluble  in  water,  and  freely  soluble  in  alcohol,  and  acquires  with 
sulphuric  acid  a violet  color,  turning  black.  Anchietea  salutaris  is  believed  in  Brazil  to  be  useful 
in  syphilis  and  skin  affections,  probably  upon  the  ground  of  its  provoking  salivation.  It  has  been 
(.  administered  in  powder  and  in  tincture. 

Uses. — Very  little  is  known  of  the  special  medicinal  virtues  of  the  formerly  officinal 
violet,  V.  pedata,  but,  as  far  as  can  be  judged,  it  did  not  differ  much  in  its  qualities  from 
| the  European  species,  which  have  long  been  used  in  medicine.  Sweet  violets  (V.  odorata) 
were  anciently  held  to  be  refrigerant  and  astringent  in  “ardor  of  the  stomach,”  inflam- 
mation of  the  eyes,  and  prolapse  of  the  anus  and  of  the  uterus,  and  also  to  restrain 
! suppuration.  By  the  Arabians  they  were  employed  in  coughs  and  affections  of  the  kid- 
j neys  and  of  the  liver,  and,  when  prepared  with  sugar,  as  a laxative.  The  syrup  of  vio- 


1712 


VISCUM. 


lets,  which  to  this  day  is  used  in  France,  was  directed  by  the  Arabians  in  pulmonary 
affections.  It  was  also  formerly  recommended  as  a local  remedy  for  aphthae  ; internally, 
an  infusion  of  the  flowers  was  given  in  infantile  convulsions ; and  the  powder,  as  well  as 
an  infusion  of  the  root,  has  been  used  in  the  same  manner  as  ipecacuanha  in  the  treat- 
ment of  infantile  dysentery. 

An  alkaloid  procured  from  this  species  is  represented  to  have  exhibited  the  properties 
of  emetine,  causing  vomiting,  purging,  and  great  prostration  in  dogs,  and  in  man  analogous 
effects  in  some  cases,  but  not  uniformly.  The  powdered  root  applied  to  the  denuded  skin 
has  sometimes  acted  as  an  emeto-cathartic.  Similar  effects  have  been  obtained  from  V. 
canina. 

Y.  tricolor  (heart’sease)  also  produces  disturbance  of  the  stomach  and  bowels,  and 
sometimes  diuresis.  Its  continued  use  is  said  to  occasion  sweating  and  a pustular  erup- 
tion of  the  skin,  and  to  impart  to  the  urine  a smell  like  cat’s  urine  or  that  of  conium.  It 
once  had  a great  popular  repute  in  Europe  as  a purifier  of  the  blood  and  as  a remedy  in 
chronic  bronchial  and  intestinal  catarrh , in  cutaneous  eruptions , and  particularly  in  crusta 
lactea  (eczema  infantile).  In  these  affections  it  was  administered  in  a decoction  of  milk 
and  applied  in  fomentations.  Cazin  {Traite  des  Plantes  medicinales  indigenes  de  France, 
2eme  ed.,  p.  734)  sets  forth  at  length  the  virtues  ascribed  to  it  in  the  cure  of  scrofulous 
and  other  cutaneous  diseases  by  Bergius,  Matthiolus,  Bauhin,  Boeckler,  Strack,  Murray, 
Hufeland,  and  many  others,  including  the  imaginative  Hahnemann,  and  also  the  denial 
of  their  existence  by  other  physicians.  A similar  history  had  long  before  been  given  by 
Bichter  (Ausfuhrliche  Arzneim .,  ii.  235),  who  concludes  it  by  observing,  “ After  all,  viola 
has  no  special  virtues  in  these  affections  ; at  the  best,  it  can  only  afford  some  support  to 
other  and  more  efficient  remedies.”  It  had  also  some  repute  in  constitutional  syphilis. 
In  Europe  the  syrup  of  violets  is  sometimes  employed  as  a laxative  for  infants,  but  its 
chief  use  is  to  give  a fine  color  to  mixtures.  V.  sagittata  is  a reputed  antidote  to  snake- 
bites. 

VISCUM. — Mistletoe. 

Gui  de  chene , Gillon , Fr. ; Mist  el,  G. ; Visco , Muerdago , Sp. 

Viscum  album,  Linne , and  Viscum  (Phoradendron,  NuttaTl ) flavescens,  Pursh. 

Nat.  Ord. — Loranthacese. 

Origin  and  Description. — The  mistletoes  are  small  parasitic  evergreen  shrubs, 
growing  mostly  upon  deciduous-leaved  trees,  and  penetrating  with  their  simple  roots 
through  the  bark  into  the  wood.  Viscum  album  is  indigenous  to  Europe,  and  is  chiefly 
found  upon  apple,  pear,  plum,  and  similar  trees,  but  grows  also  upon  poplars,  birches, 
beeches,  and  others.  Viscum  flavescens  is  an  American  species,  growing  upon  oaks,  elms, 
apples,  etc.  in  the  Southern  United  States  and  northward  to  New  Jersey,  and  westward 
in  the  Mississippi  Valley.  Both  plants  are  of  a yellowish-green  color  15-60  Cm.  (5  to  2 
feet)  high,  much  branched,  jointed,  and  have  opposite,  often  scale-like  leaves  and  monoe- 
cious or  dioecious  flowers  in  small  clusters  or  short  spikes.  The  leaves  of  the  European 
species  are  lanceolate  or  spatulate,  obtuse  and  entire ; those  of  the  American  plant  are 
obovate  or  oval.  The  fruit  of  both  species  is  a small,  whitish,  one-seeded  berry.  The 
branches  are  usually  collected.  They  have  an  unpleasant  heavy  and  rather  weak  odor 
and  a mucilaginous,  sweetish,  bitter,  and  somewhat  astringent  taste. 

Loranthus  europ^eus,  Linne , is  the  viscum  quernum  of  ancient  writers.  It  is  a some- 
what larger  and  thicker  shrub,  which  grows  upon  oaks  and  chestnuts  in  Eastern  and 
Southern  Europe,  and  has  a grayish  or  dark-brown  bark  and  pale-yellow  berries. 

Constituents. — Mistletoe  has  been  analyzed  by  Gaspard,  Funcke,  Winckler,  Macaire, 
and  Reinsch.  It  contains  mucilage,  sugar,  an  odorous  principle,  fixed  oil,  resin,  traces  of 
tannin,  and  various  salts.  The  most  interesting  constituent  is  viscin , also  called  bird-lime , 
or  more  properly  bird-glue , from  the  German  name  Vogelleim.  It  is  insoluble  in  water, 
alcohol,  and  fixed  oils,  but  dissolves  in  ether  and  oil  of  turpentine,  and,  on  evaporating 
the  solvents,  remains  behind  as  a yellowish  viscous  and  tenacious  mass.  It  seems  to  be 
present  in  the  mistletoe  in  small  proportions,  but  a larger  quantity  is  formed  by  a kind  of 
fermentation.  The  same  or  a similar  compound  may  be  obtained  from  the  inner  bark  of 
the  European  holly,  Ilex  aquifolium,  Linne , from  the  root  of  Gentiana  lutea,  Linne,  and 
from  other  plants.  It  is  employed  for  catching  small  birds ; hence  the  name  Vogelleim. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  operation  of  mistletoe  is  as  uncertain  as  its  virtues  are 
doubtful.  The  berries  are  reported  by  some  writers  (Cazin)  to  be  innocuous,  but  others 
state  that  they  are  emetic  and  purgative,  and  instances  are  given  in  which  very  young 
children  have  suffered  convulsions,  and  even  death,  from  eating  large  quantities  of  them. 


VITELL  US. 


1713 


It  seems  not  impossible  that  these  effects  may  have  been  due  to  indigestion  alone.  It  is 
true  that  a case  is  recorded  in  which  after  several  children  had  eaten  the  berries  of  V. 
flavescens  they  were  affected  with  vomiting,  great  thirst,  tenesmus,  and  bloody  and 
mucous  stools.  In  one  case  death  ensued  in  a state  of  collapse.  In  Europe,  however, 
the  dried  young  twigs  and  leaves  of  mistletoe  have  long  been  used  in  medicine  for  various 
nervous  affections,  including  chorea,  asthma,  and  spasmodic  colic,  but  chiefly  for  epilepsy, 
although  sometimes  for  hysteria  (Richter,  Ausf.  Arzneim.,  ii.  822).  Long  ( New  Prepara- 
tions, 1878)  “used  mistletoe  in  the  forms  of  infusion,  tincture,  decoction,  and  fluid  extract 
in  many  cases  of  menorrhagia  and  post-partum  haemorrhage  with  gratifying  results.”  He 
conceived  that  it  incited  the  natural  rather  than  the  tonic  contraction  of  the  uterus.  A 
physician  in  South  Carolina  refers  to  three  cases  of  abortion  in  negroes  produced  by  this 
growth  (Med.  Record,  xvii.  276).  In  1881  it  was  alleged  to  act  upon  the  heart  like 
digitalis  (Park,  Practitioner,  xxvii.  346).  It  was  formerly  given  in  powder  in  the  dose 
6m.  0.60-4  (gr.  x-lx),  or  in  a decoction  made  from  Gm.  16-64  in  Gm.  250  (§ss-ij  in 
^viij)  of  water,  and  in  tablespoonful  doses  several  times  a day. 

VITELLUS,  Z7.  S. — Yolk  (Yelk)  of  Egg. 

Ovi  vitellus,  Br. ; Jaune  d'ceuf  Fr.  ; Eidotter,  Eigelb,  G. ; Yema  de  huevo,  Sp. 

The  yolk  of  the  egg  of  Gallus  Bankiva,  var.  domestica,  Temminck,  s.  Phasianus  Gal- 
lus,  Linne. 

Class  Aves ; order  Gallinae. 

Origin. — The  domestic  fowl  originated  from  the  red  jungle-fowl,  G.  Bankiva,  which 
inhabits  Java  and  the  adjacent  islands,  Northern  India,  Cochin  China,  and  the  Philip- 
pines. At  the  present  time  numerous  varieties  of  it  are  found  in  all  civilized  countries. 
The  egg  (Ovum  U.  S.  1870,  Ovum  gallinaceum  ; Egg,  E. ; CEuf  de  poule,  Fr. ; Ei,  G.  ; 
Huevo,  Sp.)  consists  of  the  shell  and  lining  membrane  10.7  parts,  albumen  60.4  parts, 
and  yelk  28.9  parts  (Prout,  1822). 

Description  and  Composition. — 1.  Testa  oyi. — Egg-shell,  E. ; Coquille,  Fr.  ; 
Eierschale,  G. — It  consists,  according  to  Prout,  of  97  parts  calcium  carbonate,  1 part  cal- 
cium and  magnesium  phosphates,  and  2 parts  organic  matter.  Vauquelin’s  results  were 
89.6,  5.7,  and  4.7  respectively. 

2.  Albumen  ovi,  Br. — White  of  egg,  E. ; Blanc  d’ceuf,  Fr. ; Eiweiss,  G.  ; Clara  de 
huevo,  Sp. — It  consists  of  two  or  three  laminae,  the  total  average  weight  being  23.01 
Gm.  (Lehmann),  or  24.8  Gm.  (Poleck),  and  contains  82  to  88  per  cent,  of  water,  and  on 
the  average  13.32  of  solid  constituents,  including  0.65  of  ash,  as  well  as  minute  traces  of 
fat,  sugar,  and  extractive.  The  ash  of  the  egg  albumen  consists  of  42  per  cent,  of  potas- 
sium chloride,  9 of  sodium  chloride,  12  of  carbonic  acid,  the  remainder  being  phosphates 
and  sulphates  of  the  alkalies,  silica,  iron,  lime,  and  magnesia.  The  organic  portion  of  the 
white,  the  albumen  proper,  is  a protein  compound ; the  average  elementary  composition  is 
53.7  C,  15.5  N,  7.1  H,  22.1  O,  and  1.6  S.  Its  aqueous  solution  rotates  the  plane  of 
polarized  light  to  the  left,  and  may  be  evaporated  in  thin  layers  below  50°  C.  (122°  F.) 
without  change,  but  on  being  heated  to  near  75°  C.  (176°  F.)  it  is  coagulated  and  becomes 
insoluble  in  water.  Albumen  is  precipitated  from  its  solutions  by  most  mineral  and  by 
some  organic  acids,  but  not  by  phosphoric  or  acetic  acid.  It  is  soluble  in  caustic  alkalies, 
and  precipitates  the  salts  of  most  heavy  metals,  hence  its  value  in  cases  of  poisoning  by 
salts  of  mercury,  copper,  etc.  Albumen  is  also  precipitated  by  volatile  oils,  camphor, 
phenol,  and  by  tannin,  the  last  precipitate  being  soluble  in  an  aqueous  solution  of  tannin. 
Alcohol  coagulates  albumen,  and  ether  precipitates  it,  the  precipitate  being  only  partially 
soluble  in  water.  Farsky  (1878)  succeeded  in  obtaining  what  appears  to  be  a definite 
compound  of  salicylic  acid  with  albumen,  by  stirring  the  two  together  for  some  time, 
washing  with  ether  and  hot  water,  and  drying  in  an  air-bath  at  about  120°  C.  (248°  F.)  ; 
it  was  found  to  contain  14.16  per  cent,  of  salicylic  acid  and  85.84  of  albumen,  and  to  be 
as  easily  digestible  as  the  uncombined  albumen.  When  boiled  with  Millon's  reagent  the 
precipitate  as  well  as  the  liquid  turns  red,  and  albumen  cautiously  heated  with  strong 
hydrochloric  acid  is  colored  violet-blue.  Other  protein  compounds  show  a like  behavior. 

Albumen  ovi  siccum,  P.  G. — The  dried  egg-albumen  is  either  in  translucent,  horny 
masses,  similar  in  appearance  to  acacia,  or  in  a yellowish  powder,  which  is  inodorous  and 
tasteless,  and  forms  with  water  a turbid,  neutral  solution,  but  is  insoluble  in  alcohol  and 
ether.  5 Cc.  of  an  aqueous  solution  (1  to  1000)  to  which  10  drops  of  nitric  acid  have 
been  added  should  yield  when  warmed  a copious  precipitate  of  coagulated  albumen.  If 
to  10  Cc.  of  the  aqueous  solution  (1  to  100)  5 Cc.  of  solution  of  carbolic  acid,  and  then 
108 


1714 


WINTERA. 


5 drops  of  nitric  acid,  be  added  and  well  shaken,  the  mixture  should  yield  a clear  filtrate. 
If  5 Cc.  of  alcohol  be  added  to  an  equal  volume  of  this  filtrate,  so  that  they  form  two 
layers,  a milkiness  should  not  make  its  appearance  at  the  line  of  contact ; 5 Cc.  of  the 
foregoing  filtrate  should  not  be  colored  red,  but  only  yellow,  with  1 Cc.  of  solution  of 
'iodine. — P.  G, 

3.  Vitellus  oyi. — The  yolk  is  a viscid  yellow  or  reddish-yellow  opaque  liquid,  which 
is  without  odor,  has  a bland  taste,  an  alkaline  reaction,  and  must  be  regarded  as  a dense 
emulsion  consisting  of  oil  suspended  in  water  by  means  of  albumen.  When  triturated 
with  water  a whitish  emulsion  is  obtained  ; the  addition  of  alcohol  causes  it  to  coagulate, 
and  when  agitated  with  ether  it  separates  a white  mass  and  yields  to  ether  an  orange- 
yellow  fat.  Yolk  is  coagulated  by  heat.  It  contains  48  to  55  per  cent,  of  water,  16  to 
18  per  cent,  of  vitellin  (which  is  probably  a proteid  closely  related  to  casein,  and  mixed 
with  about  one-fourth  of  albumen),  29  to  31  per  cent,  of  fat  (21.3  parts  of  which  are 
olein  and  margarin,  according  to  Grubley),  1.5  per  cent,  inorganic  salts,  coloring  matter,  a 
small  portion  of  sugar,  and  0.42  of  cholesterin.  Grubley  has  separated  from  the  ethe- 
real extract  of  yolk  a substance  which  he  named  lecithin , and  which  on  boiling  with 
baryta  yields  neurine  and  stearic  and  phospliogly  ceric  acids.  The  fat  obtained  by  express- 
ing the  coagulated  yolk  or  by  exhausting  it  with  ether  is  occasionally  used  under  the 
designation  of  oleum  ovi  (Oil  of  eggs,  E. ; Huile  d’ceufs,  Ft.  ; Eierol,  G.). 

Preservation. — Eggs  may  be  preserved  for  a considerable  length  of  time  by  cover- 
ing die  shell  with  a substance  impervious  to  water,  thus  closing  the  pores  so  as  to  exclude 
the  air.  This  may  be  done  by  wax,  fat,  paraffin,  gum,  or  by  similar  substances.  Packing 
them  with  the  small  end  downward  in  dry  salt,  milk  of  lime,  etc.  has  likewise  been 
recommended. 

Pharmacentical  Uses. — The  white  of  egg  is  used  for  the  clarification  of  syrups, 
honey,  and  other  liquids.  The  yolk  is  employed  for  emulsionizing  fixed  and  volatile  oils 
and  camphors. 

Action  and  Uses. — Egg-shells  were  long  used  for  the  various  purposes  to  which 
chalk  is  now  applied  internally.  Like  crabs’  eyes  and  claws,  corals,  and  oyster-shells,  which 
were  formerly  employed,  they  contain  a certain  proportion  of  animal  matter  which  miti- 
gates the  action  of  the  calcareous  constituent.  They  were  an  ingredient  of  a secret 
remedy  for  gravel , for  a knowledge  of  which  the  British  Parliament  paid  an  extravagant 
sum  of  money.  The  white  of  egg  forms  with  solutions  of  corrosive  sublimate  and  of 
copper  sulphate  compounds  which  are  nearly  insoluble,  and  hence  it  has  been  used  in 
poisoning  with  these  salts,  first  to  neutralize  and  then  to  evacuate  them.  Its  demulcent 
and  protective  action  is  also  advantageous.  It  is  applied  to  the  treatment  of  burns  and 
erysipelas , either  alone  or  emulsified  with  oil,  or  coagulated  by  alum  in  the  form  of  alum 
curd.  The  latter  is  an  excellent  application  in  acute  conjunctivitis.  Diluted  with  water, 
sweetened,  and  flavored,  fresh  egg  albumen  forms  an  agreeable  and  useful  drink  in  numer- 
ous cases  of  g astro-intestinal  inflammation  and  irritation.  Albumen  is  sometimes  used  as 
a substitute  for  starch  in  the  application  of  fixed  'bandages.  The  yolk  of  egg  is  more  nutri- 
tious and  digestible  than  the  white,  and  is  habitually  employed  whenever  it  is  desired  to 
give  the  largest  amount  of  nutriment  in  a small  bulk  and  in  the  most  digestible  form.  The 
yolk  of  a hard  boiled  fresh  egg  readily  crumbles,  and  is  therefore  easily  acted  upon  by  the 
gastric  juice.  The  fresh  yolk,  beaten  with  sugar  and  mixed  with  hot  water,  and  with  the 
addition  of  a little  brandy  and  nutmeg  or  cloves,  forms  a customary  draught  at  the  com- 
mencement of  catarrhal  and  rheumatic  (muscular)  affections.  It  is  used  also  to  make 
emulsions  for  the  administration  of  castor  oil,  cod-liver  oil,  oil  of  turpentine,  etc.,  either 
by  the  mouth  or  the  rectum.  Externally,  it  is  sometimes,  and  very  usefully,  employed 
as  a dressing  for  burns , scalds , abrasions , etc.,  and  to  soften  the  crusts  of  cutaneous  erup- 
tions:,  cerumen  in  the  auditory  canal,  etc. 

WINTERA. — Winter’s  Bark. 

Cortex  winteranus. — Ecorce  de  Winter , F.  Cod. ; Cannelle  de  Magellan , Fr. ; Winter  s 
ZimmtyQ. ; Corteza  winter  ana,  Sp. 

The  bark  of  Drimys  Winteri,  Forster , s.  Wintera  aromatica,  Murray. 

Nat.  Ord. — Magnoliaceae,  Winterse. 

Origin. — Drimys  Winteri  is  a small  tree  growing  in  the  western  part  of  South 
America  from  the  Straits  of  Magellan  northward  to  Mexico.  It  has  coriaceous,  oblong 
and  obtuse  or  lance-oblong,  dark-green,  and  on  the  lower  side  pale  bluish-green,  entire 
leaves,  axillary  clusters  of  whitish  flowers,  and  about  four  or  eight  black  obovate  berries 


XA  XTHORRIIIZA  .—XANTE  OX  YL  UM. 


1715 


containing  three  or  four  seeds.  D.  mexicana,  Sesse,  s.  Chilensis,  De  Candolle , and  1).  grana- 
tensis,  Linne  films , are  now  regarded  as  varieties,  and  the  last  one  is  mentioned  by  the 
French  Codex  as  the  present  source  of  the  drug. 

Description. — Winter’s  bark  is  curved  or  in  quills,  between  5 and  8 Mm.  (t  “d  £ 
inch)  thick,  externally  of  a gray  or  whitish  color  with  brown  patches,  and  underneath 
the  corky  layer  brown.  The  inner  surface  is  brown,  and  marked  with  longitudinal  ridges 
from  the  prominent  bast-fibres.  The  bark  breaks  with  a short  fracture,  and  has  a pecu- 
liar odor  and  a warm  and  very  pungent  taste.  The  transverse  section  is  of  a brown-red 
color,  mottled  with  whitish  sclerenchyma,  which  in  the  primary  bark  underneath  the  thin 
corky  layer  forms  transversely-elongated  groups,  and  in  the  bast-layer  is  seen  partly  in 
groups,  partly  in  long  radial  lines ; resin-cells  are  scattered  in  the  outer  and  inner  tissue. 

Substitutions. — The  Winter’s  bark  of  commerce  has  usually  been  an  entirely  dif- 
ferent bark,  occasionally  that  of  Canella  alba,  Linne,  but  more  frequently  obtained  from 
Cinnamodendron  corticosum,  Miens  (see  page  392). 

Constituents. — The  principal  constituents  of  Winter's  bark,  as  ascertained  by 
Henry  (1820),  are  1.2  per  cent,  of  volatile  oil,  about  10  per  cent,  of  pungent  resin,  and 
9 per  cent,  of  tannin,  with  extractive  matter  and  a little  starch. 

Allied  Species. — The  Australian  species,  Drimys  axillaris,  Forster , and  D.  lanceolata  (Tas- 
mania aromatica,  R.  Brown),  have  likewise  pungently  aromatic  barks,  and  the  fruit  of  the  latter 
is  used  like  pepper. 

Action  and  Uses. — The  action  and  uses  of  Winter’s  bark  resemble  those  of  casca- 
rilla  and  canella.  It  is  a warm  tonic  of  the  digestive  organs,  increasing  the  appetite  and 
improving  the  digestion,  especially  when  deranged  by  flatulence  and  colic.  The  dose  of 
the  powder  is  Gm.  2 (gr.  xxx),  and  a vinous  infusion  may  be  prepared  by  displacement 
with  Gm.  30  (^j)  of  the  bark  to  Gm.  360  (:§xij)  of  sherry  wine. 

X ANTHORRHIZ  A. — Y ellow-root. 

The  rhizome  and  root  of  Xanthorrhiza  apiifolia,  L' Heritier.  Bentley  and  Trjmen, 
Med.  Plants , 9. 

Nat.  Ord. — Ranunculaceae. 

Origin. — This  plant  is  also  known  as  shrub  yellow-root  to  distinguish  it  from  Hydrastis 
canadensis.  Xanthorrhiza  is  a shrub  30—60  Cm.  (1  to  2 feet)  high,  growing  in  shady 
places  near  streams  in  New  York  and  from  the  mountains  in  Pennsylvania  southward  to 
the  Gulf  of  Mexico.  The  clustered  stems  are  thin,  of  a grayish  color  externally,  smooth, 
and  annulate  from  the  distant  leaf-scars.  The  leaves  are  alternate,  crowded  at  the  ends 
of  the  branches,  long-petiolate,  pinnate,  and  have  three  or  five  ovate  or  lanceolate,  cleft, 
and  toothed  leaflets,  with  wedge-shaped  bases.  The  flowers  are  polygamous  and  in  com- 
pound drooping  racemes,  appearing  in  early  spring. 

Description. — Yellow-root  consists  of  a much-branched  and  bent  rhizome  several 
feet  long.  The  thicker  portions  are  about  12  Mm.  (1  inch)  in  diameter,  the  branches 
thinner,  some  being  only  1.5  Mm.  (y1^-  inch)  thick,  longitudinally  wrinkled,  of  a light 
yellowish-brown  color  externally,  and  rather  sparingly  beset  with  brittle  rootlets.  The 
bark  is  thin,  internally  of  a deep-yellow  color,  and  separates  readily  from  the  bright-yel- 
low, tough  wood,  which  is  radially  striate  by  medullary  rays  and  encloses  a thin  central 
pith.  The  rhizome  breaks  with  a short  fibrous  fracture,  is  inodorous,  and  has  a bitter 
taste,  which  is  more  marked  in  the  cortical  portion.  Portions  of  the  stems,  having  a 
larger  brownish  pith  and  yellow  wood,  are  often  present. 

Constituents. — Perrins  (1862)  showed  that  yellow-root  contains  berberine ; he 
obtained  only  71  grains  of  the  nitrate  from  1 pound  of  the  drug.  About  the  same  time 
W.  M.  Merrill  made  a similar  observation.  Whether  berberine  is  associated  with  a white 
alkaloid,  as  is  frequently  the  case,  has  not  been  determined.  The  parenchyma  contains 
starch.  The  other  constituents  of  the  drug  are  not  known. 

Uses. — Yellow-root  has  long  been  known  as  an  indigenous  tonic  medicine,  and  com- 
pared either  to  quassia  or  columbo.  It  may  be  given  in  decoction,  tincture,  or  powder. 
Of  the  last  the  dose  is  said  to  be  Gm.  2.60  (gr.  xl). 

XANTHOXYLUM,  V.  S.—  Prickly  Ash. 

Toothache  tree , Angelica  tree,  Suterberry , E. ; Clavalier,  Frene  epineux , Fr. ; Zalinweh- 
rinde,  Zahmoehholz,  G. 

The  bark  of  Xanthoxylum  americanum,  Miller,  s.  X.  fraxineum,  Willdenow,  and  of 
Xanthoxylum  clava-herculis,  Linne. 


1716 


XANTHOXYLUM. 


Nat.  Ord. — Rutaceae,  Xanthoxyleae. 

Origin. — Both  species  of  prickly  ash  are  indigenous  to  North  America,  and  have  pin- 
nate leaves  and  dioecious,  tetramerous  or  pentamerous  flowers,  the  pistillate  ones  contain- 
ing from  three  to  five  free  ovaries,  which  produce  thick  and  fleshy  two-valved  and  one-  or 
two-seeded  capsules. 

X.  americanum  grows  in  rocky  woodlands  and  on  river-banks  from  Canada  southward 
to  Virginia  and  North  Carolina.  It  is  shrubby,  and  attains  a height  of  3—3.6  M.  (10  or 
12  feet).  The  leaves  have  nine  or  eleven  ovate-oblong,  nearly  sessile,  somewhat  ser- 
rulate, and  on  the  lower  surface  downy,  leaflets.  The  small  greenish  flowers  are  in 
umbellate,  axillary  clusters,  appear  in  April  before  the  leaves,  and  are  destitute  of  a 
calyx.  The  capsules  are  roundish,  red,  and  contain  black,  shining  seeds. 

X.  clava-herculis  is  found  near  the  coast  from  Virginia  southward  to  Florida  and 
westward  to  Texas  and  in  the  West  Indies.  It  is  a small  tree,  but  sometimes  grows  to 
the  height  of  9—12  M.  (30  or  40  feet).  Its  leaves  have  from  seven  to  eleven  ovate- 
lanceolate,  crenate-serrulate,  unequal-sided,  and  shining  leaflets,  the  terminal  one  alone 
being  equilateral.  The  numerous  greenish  flowers  are  in  terminal  cymes,  appear  in  June 
after  the  leaves,  and  contain  three  pistils. 

Description. — Northern  Prickly- Ash  bark  is  in  small,  curved,  or  quilled  frag- 
ments, about  5 Cm.  (2  inches)  or  less  long,  mostly  about  1 Mm.  (J-g-  inch)  thick,  and 
occasionally  mixed  with  pieces  nearly  3 Mm.  (4  inch)  thick.  The  corky  layer  is  very 
thin,  of  a brown-gray  color,  nearly  smooth  or  faintly  furrowed  longitudinally,  occasionally 
superficially  fissured  transversely,  and  marked  with  some  scattered  warts,  becoming  trans- 
versely elongated.  Irregular  whitish  patches  are  usually  observed  on  the  surface  of  the 
bark,  and  numerous  minute,  black,  and  shining  hemispherical  dots,  which  are  the  peri- 
thecia  of  a lichenr  probably  a species  of  Verrucaria.  The  brown,  glossy  spines  are  not 
numerous,  but  are  about  6 Mm.  (4  inch)  long,  straight,  two-edged,  and  have  a narrow 
linear  base  about  18  Mm.  (f  inch)  long.  The  outer  bark  underneath  the  corky  layer  is 
of  a green  color,  and  the  inner  bark  whitish  or  yellowish.  The  inner  surface  is  smooth, 
or  finely  striate  if  obtained  from  older  branches.  The  bark  is  quite  brittle,  breaks  with 
a short,  non-fibrous  fracture,  and  exhibits  upon  transverse  section  a somewhat  tangential 
arrangement  of  the  tissue.  It  is  inodorous,  and  has  a slightly  aromatic,  bitterish,  and 
strongly  pungent  taste. 

Southern  Prickly- Ash  bark  resembles  the  preceding,  except  that  it  is  about  2 Mm. 
(TL  inch)  thick,  and  bears  on  its  surface  many  conical  corky  projections,  which  are  1-2 
Cm.  (-J  to  inch)  high,  and  have  an  oblong  or  roundish  base  25  Mm.  (1  inch)  or  more  in 
length.  Sometimes  a number  of  these  cones  are  crowded  together.  The  stout  brown 
spines  are  situated  upon  elevated  corky  bases. 

Substitution. — The  bark  of  Aralia  spinosa,  Linne , which  plant  is  known  by  the 
same  common  names  as  the  two  species  of  Xanthoxylum,  is  sometimes  collected  in  place 
of  the  bark  of  the  latter.  Aralia-bark  is  described  on  p.  274. 

Allied  Species. — Xanthoxylum  floridanum,  Nuttall,  is  known  as  satin-wood , and  considered 
to  be  identical  with  X.  caribaeum,  Lamarck. 

X.  pterota,  Kunth , grows  from  Florida  and  Texas  to  Brazil.  The  wood  is  yellow,  dense,  and 
very  hard ; the  bark  and  leaves  are  pungent. 

X.  alatum,  Roxburgh , of  Northern  India,  X.  piperitum,  De  Candolle , a native  of  Japan,  and 
several  other  species,  yield  pungently  aromatic  fruits  which  are  employed  as  condiments  in  the 
East.  The  bark,  leaves,  and  fruits  of  most  species  are  pungent  or  acrid. 

Constituents. — Prickly-ash  bark  was  examined  by  Dr.  Staples  (1829),  who  obtained 
from  it  a little  volatile  oil,  a green-colored  fixed  oil,  resin,  and  other  common  vegetable 
principles,  and  a crystalline  body  which  he  named  xanthoxylin , but  the  nature  of  which 
was  not  further  characterized.  The  bitter  principle  of  the  .bark  of  X.  clava-herculis 
was  isolated  by  Chevallier  and  Pelletan  (1827),  and  designated  as  xamthopicrin,  but  was 
found  by  Perrins  (1863)  to  be  identical  with  berberine.  G.  H.  Colton  (1880)  examined 
southern  prickly  ash,  and  obtained  an  alkaloid  which  seems  to  differ  from  berberine ; it 
is  yellowish,  bitter,  soluble  in  alcohol  and  water,  insoluble  in  benzin,  ether,  and  chloro- 
form, and  becomes  purplish-brown  with  sulphuric  acid,  and  bright-red,  changing  to  yellow, 
with  nitric  acid.  Colton  obtained  also  a trace  of  volatile  oil,  sugar,  resins,  a colorless  and 
tasteless  crystalline  principle,  and  12.4  per  cent,  of  ash,  of  which  20  per  cent,  was  solu- 
ble in  water,  the  remainder  in  hydrochloric  acid.  Prof.  Lloyd  (1876)  isolated  from 
northern  prickly  ash  a crystalline  substance  which  is  probably,  identical  with  the  one 
previously  mentioned  ; it  is  insoluble  in  water,  soluble  in  boiling  alcohol,  is  turned  yellow 
by  nitric  acid,  and  dissolves  with  a deep-red  color  in  sulphuric  acid. 


XYLENUM.—ZEA. 


1717 


The  fruit  of  X.  piperitum  was  examined  by  Stenhouse  (1854,  1857).  On  being  dis- 
tilled with  water  volatile  oil  is  obtained,  which  on  exposure  to  cold  yields  crystals  of 
xanthoxylin , C20H24O8.  It  melts  at  80°  C.  (170°  F.),  has  a slight  odor  and  aromatic 
taste,  and  a neutral  reaction.  The  liquid  portion  of  the  volatile  oil  is  xanthoxylene , 
C20H16,  is  colorless,  has  a strong,  agreeable  odor,  boils  at  162°  C.  (324°  F.),  and  yields 
with  hydrochloric  acid  a liquid  compound. 

Action  and  Uses. — Xanthoxylum  appears  to  be  an  arterial  and  nervous  stimulant, 
which  displays  its  virtues  in  producing  diaphoresis,  expelling  flatus,  and  allaying  muscular 
rheumatic  pains.  Locally  it  is  an  acrid  irritant,  and  hence  has  been  much  used  as  a 
sialagogue.  Its  infusion  may  be  applied  on  compresses  or  otherwise  for  producing  revul- 
sion. These  qualities  have  caused  it  to  be  compared  with  mezereon,  and,  like  it,  to  be 
used  as  a remedy  for  chronic  constitutional  syphilis.  It  has  also  been  employed  as  an 
emmenayoyue  , like  other  acrid  stimulants;  and  doubtless,  like  them,  it  will  promote  the 
secretion  of  milk  when  applied  to  the  mammae  under  appropriate  circumstances.  A 
decoction  may  be  prepared  by  boiling  Gm.  32  in  Gm.  1500  (|j  in  Oiij  reduced  to  Oij). 
About  a pint  should  be  taken,  in  divided  doses,  within  twenty-four  hours.  A saturated 
tincture  may  be  used  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.60  (gtt.  x). 

X.  Naranjillo  has  attracted  notice  from  its  being  sialagogue,  sudorific,  and  diuretic, 
like  jaborandi. 

X.  caribaeum  furnishes  an  alkaloid  of  which  5 Mgm.  injected  in  watery  solution  beneath 
the  skin  of  a frog  produced  rapid  paralysis,  followed  by  death  in  about  half  an  hour,  and 
similar  effects  were  observed  in  rabbits  and  guinea-pigs  ( Amer . Jour.  Phar.,  lvi.  579). 

XYLENUM.— Xylene. 

Xylol , Xyline.  Fr. ; Xylol , G. 

Formula  C6H4(CH3)2  = C8H10.  Molecular  weight  105.76. 

Origin  and  Preparation. — Xylene  was  discovered  by  Cahours  (1850)  in  crude 
wood-spirit,  and  was  subsequently  found  by  Yolckel  (1853)  in  wood-tar  (see  Fix 
Liquida),  and  by  Church  (1855)  in  coal-tar.  It  is  obtained  from  the  oily  liquid  separat- 
ing from  diluted  crude  wood-spirit  and  from  the  light  oil  of  wood-tar  or  coal-tar  by  treat- 
ing these  liquids  first  with  sulphuric  acid,  and  afterward  subjecting  them  to  fractional 
distillation,  collecting  only  that  portion  which  distils  between  136°  and  141°  C.  (277°- 
286°  F.).  It  may  also  be  prepared  artificially  from  several  benzene  derivatives. 

Properties. — Xylene  is  a thin,  colorless,  oily  liquid,  resembling  benzene  in  odor,  has 
a burning  taste,  and  is  insoluble  in  water,  but  dissolves  readily  in  alcohol.  It  is  dimethyl- 
benzene. , C6H4(CH3)2,  and  there  are  three  modifications  of  it,  two  of  which  boil  at  137°  C. 
(278.6°  F.),  while  orthoxylene  boils  at  141°  C.  (285.8°  F.).  The  boiling-point  of  the 
- isomeric  ethylbenzene , CeH5.C2H5,  is  134°  C.  (273.2°  F.).  Xylene  unites  with  sulphuric 
acid  to  xylene-sulphonic  acid , the  barium  salt  of  which  crystallizes  from  hot  water  in 
| transparent  scales  (Church).  On  treating  xylene  with  cold  concentrated  nitric  acid, 
nitroxylene  is  obtained  as  an  oily  liquid  having  a less  agreeable  odor  than  nitrobenzene. 
By  oxidation  xylene  is  converted  into  toluic  acid , C8II802,  and  phthalic  acid , C8H604. 

Action  and  Uses. — -The  only  purpose  for  which  xylene  appears  to  have  been 
employed  in  medicine  is  to  moderate  the  angina  and  eruption  in  the  throat  and  to  diminish 
the  fetid  exhalation  from  this  part  and  from  the  skin  in  small-pox.  Although  given 
internally,  it  is  said  to  coagulate  and  harden  the  contents  of  the  pustules,  and  thereby 
lessen  their  tendency  to  ulceration  and  pitting.  It  seems  to  have  been  efficient,  when 
applied  to  the  throat  in  a gargle,  spray,  or  wash,  in  lessening  the  swelling  and  difficulty 
of  swallowing,  and  destroying  the  fetor  when  used  upon  the  skin  in  a similar  manner. 
It  may  also  be  given  suspended  in  mucilage  and  syrup.  The  dose  for  an  adult  is  stated 
to  be  Gm.  0.60—1  (gtt.  x-xv),  and  for  children  Gm.  0.15-0.20  (gtt.  iij-iv),  but  its  topical 
application  is  to  be  preferred. 

ZEA,  U.  S. — Zea:  Corn-silk. 

Stigmata  maydis. — Filament  de  ma'is , Fr. ; Maispistille , G. 

The  styles  and  stigmas  of  Zea  Mays,  Linne.  Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants , 296. 

Nat.  Ora. — Gramineae. 

Origin. — Indian  corn  or  corn  is  a grass  growing  to  the  height  of  1-6  M.  (40  inches 
to  20  feet),  with  a solid  stem  from  1.3-8  Cm.  (1  to  3 inches)  in  thickness.  The  stem 
terminates  by  the  male  inflorescence,  while  the  female  inflorescence  is  in  the  axil  of  the 


1718 


ZEA. 


leaves.  The  fruit  is  a caryopsis  placed  in  eight  or  twenty-two  lines  on  a thick  cylindrical 
receptacle  which  is  enclosed  by  bracts,  which  are  similar  to  the  leaves  of  the  plant. 
The  plant  is  very  likely  indigenous  to  tropical  America,  but  was  cultivated  in  America 
from  before  the  Spaniards  landed  on  these  shores,  so  that  at  the  present  time  the  plant 
is  not  known  in  the  wild  state.  Cultivation  extends  in  America  from  54°  N.  lat.  to 
40°  S.  lat.,  and  in  Europe  to  52°  N.  lat.  as  long  as  the  summer  temperature  amounts  to 
18°  C.  Around  Lake  Titicaca,  in  South  America,  16°  S.  lat.,  Zea  mays  grows  at  an  alti- 
tude of  3900  M.  (12,795  feet)  above  the  sea-level. 

Description. — The  caryopsis  is  roundish  in  shape,  but  by  being  placed  closely  on 
the  receptacle  is  more  or  less  compressed  laterally,  so  that  the  sides  are  angular  and  the 
top  only  is  rounded,  and  variable  in  size  and  color.  The  fruit  consists  of  the  embryo, 
placed  at  one  side  close  to  the  funiculus,  and  albumen  (endosperm)  makes  up  the  remainder 
of  the  fruit,  which  is  covered  by  two  seed-coats.  On  the  side  of  the  ripe  caryopsis,  just 
above  the  embryo,  is  noticed  a slight  protuberance  which  is  the  insertion  of  the  style. 
This  with  the  stigma  is  the  official  drug.  It  is  filiform,  about  15  Cm.  (5.9  inches)  long 
and  0.5  Mm.  (-J^  inch)  broad,  yellowish  or  grayish  in  color,  soft  silky,  finely  hairy,  and 
delicately  veined  longitudinally.  It  is  without  odor  and  has  a sweetish  taste. 

Constituents. — Zea  contains,  according  to  Willan  (1884),  fixed  oil,  resin,  tannin, 
sugar  (in  green  but  not  in  dried  corn-silk),  and  on  distillation  with  potassium  hydroxide 
an  alkaline  liquid  yielding  crystals  with  acetic  acid  and  precipitates  with  iodine  and 
Mayer’s  reagent.  Rademacher  and  Fischer  (1886)  isolated  an  acid  which  was  called 
maizenic  acid  by  them,  decomposes  alkaline  carbonates,  and  forms  crystallizable  salts. 
The  fixed  oil  is  light-yellow  in  color,  readily  saponifies  with  potassium  hydroxide,  and 
solidifies  at  10°  C.  (50°  F.). 

Ustilago  (Uredo,  De  Candolle)  Maydis,  LeveilU  (nat.  ord.  Fungi,  Ustilaginese).  Cornsmut, 
Corn-ergot,  E. ; Ergot  de  ma'is,  Fr. : Maisbrand,  Beulenbrand,  G. ; Rizon  de  maiz,  Sp. — The 
numerous  species  of  the  genus  Ustilago  (smuts)  grow  upon  living  plants,  the  tissue  of  which 
is  penetrated  by  the  mycelium.  The  spores  are  produced  in  the  hyphae  or  their  branches,  which 
gradually  form  a gelatinous  mass,  and  this  is  subsequently  resorbed,  so  that  finally  the  isolated 
spores  remain  behind.  These  are  of  a black  or  brown  color,  consist  of  a single  cell,  and  have 
the  outer  membranes  or  exosporium  either  smooth  or  variously  marked.  Cornsmut  forms 
irregular  globose  masses,  which  are  somewhat  lobed  or  obtusely  branched,  and  sometimes  15 
Cm.  (6  inches)  or  more  thick.  The  smooth  or  gelatinous  membrane  forming  the  covering  of  the 
fungus  is  diaphanous,  and  shows  a blackish  tint  from  the  enclosed  spores.  Enclosed  by  this 
membrane  is  found  a blackish-brown  or  brownish-black  powder,  consisting  of  innumerable  spores, 
which  are  globular  or  oval,  and  when  observed  under  the  microscope  have  a nodular  or  spiny 
appearance,  from  the  projections  of  the  exosporium.  Cornsmut  has  a peculiar  rather  heavy  odor 
and  an  unpleasant  taste.  It  should  be  preserved  in  a dry  place,  aDd  should  be  kept  on  hand 
not  longer  than  a year.  C.  H.  Cressler  (1881)  showed  the  presence  of  a volatile  base,  which  is 
probably  identical  with  trimethylamine , and  a sugar  which  crystallizes  in  needles,  is  very  sweet, 
and  does  not  reduce  Trommer’s  test-solution  ; it  is  probably  mycose;  fixed  oil,  resin,  and  gummy 
matter  were  likewise  obtained.  Examined  by  J.  H.  Hahn  (1881)  and  II.  B.  Parsons  (1882),  air- 
dry  cornsmut  yielded  9 to  10  per  cent,  of  moisture,  2.5  to  4.2  per  cent,  of  ether  extract,  and  4 to 
5.5  per  cent  of  ash.  Alcohol  takes  up  about  10  per  cent.,  and  water  about  6.6  per  cent.,  of 
soluble  matter,  from  the  latter  of  which  Prof.  Parsons  obtained  5.5  per  cent,  of  an  acid  com- 
pound which  is  probably  identical  with  sclerotic  acid,  and  is  prepared  by  the  same  process  (see 
p,  617). 

Action  and  Uses. — Several  cereals  are  subject  to  diseases  which  form  products 
resembling  ergot  in  their  action.  In  1870,  Haselbacli  related  that  on  several  occasions 
cows  had  calved  prematurely  from  having  eaten  maize  affected  with  smut  (Husemann, 
Arch.  f.  Pathol,  u.  Pharmakol.,ix.  276).  In  1877,  Estachy  published  the  note  of  a case 
in  which  he  successfully  made  use  of  smutted  maize  to  revive  suspended  labor-pains. 
Afterward  he  employed  it  with  advantage  in  the  treatment  of  haemoptysis , seminal  pollutions, 
and  post-partum  haemorrhages  (Bull,  de  Therap.\  xciv.  85).  From  a series  of  experiments 
with  it,  Dr.  James  Mitchell  ( Inaug . Thesis , Univ.  of  Penna.,  1883)  concluded  that  it 
destroys  consciousness,  paralyzes  first  the  sensory  portion  of  the  spinal  cord,  and,  after 
depressing,  paralyzes  also  the  motor  centres  of  the  cord  and  motor  nerves,  and  that  prob- 
ably the  sensory  nerves  share  in  the  general  paralysis.  Dr.  Dorland  states  that  the  action 
of  ustilago  on  the  gravid  uterus  differs  from  that  of  ergot  of  rye,  in  producing  clonic 
rather  than  tonic  contraction  of  the  organ  during  labor,  and  therefore  in  being  safer  than 
the  latter  agent.  He  has  published  several  cases  illustrating  this  statement  (Med.  News, 
li.  534).  Others  are  due  to  Blair.  The  oxytocic  virtues  of  the  fluid  extract  have  also 
been  illustrated  by  Swiecicki  (Gentralh.  f.  Med.,  vi.  628). 

The  stigmata  of  maize,  or  “ corn  silk,”  have  for  a long  time  had  a popular  reputation 


ZED  OA  HI  A . — ZINCI  ACE  T AS. 


1719 


in  the  south  of  France  as  a remedy  for  strangury  and  calculous  affections , and  they  have 
also  been  held  to  possess  anodyne  virtues  ( Bull,  de  Ther .,  xcvii.  377).  In  1879,  Dufau 
described  this  product  as  actively  diuretic  in  cardiac  and  renal  dropsy , and  stated  that  the 
best  effects  followed  its  use  in  cases  of  uric  and  phosphatic  gravel , pyelitis , retention  and 
incontinence  of  urine , and  vesical  catarrh  ( Med . Record , xvi.  252).  The  diuretic  action  of 
the  medicine  in  cardiac  dropsy  has  been  confirmed  by  Dupont  ( Gaz . Med.  de  Paris , No.  9, 
1884)  and  C.  Paul  ( Lancet , Oct.  1885,  p.  798).  These  statements  have  been  confirmed 
and  extended  by  various  others,  including  Landrieux,  who  insists  strongly  on  the  diuretic 
action  of  the  medicine  ( Practitioner , xxiv.  453  ; xxv.  379),  Busey  (Med.  Record , xix.  319), 
Ducasse  (Amer.  Jour,  of  Med.  Sci.,  April,  1883,  p.  565),  and  Stuver  (Med.  Neics,  xliii. 
372).  It  appears  to  be  more  suitable  in  chronic  than  in  acute  disorders  of  the  urinary 
organs.  According  to  Vauthier,  maizenic  acid  is  the  active  principle  of  the  stigmata.  It 
is  recommended  in  doses  of  i grain.  An  extract  of  stigmata  has  been  given  in  syrup  to 
the  extent  of  Gm.  1.30-2  (gr.  xx-xxx)  a day.  The  best  preparation  of  maize  silk  appears 
to  be  the  fresh  infusion  in  the  dose  of  a wine-glassful,  and  next  to  it  the  fluid  extract 
in  doses  of  Gm.  2-4  (f^ss^ij). 


ZEDOARIA. — Zedoary. 

Rhizoma  (Radix)  zedoarise,  P.  A.,  P.  G. — Zedoaire  longue , Fr. ; Zittwerwurzel , G. 

The  rhizome  of  Curcuma  (Amomum,  Willdenoiv)  Zedoaria,  Roscoe,  s.  Curcuma  (Amo- 


Fig.  315. 


mum.  Koenig)  Zerumbet,  Roxburgh. 

Nat.  Ord. — Scitaminese  (Zingiberaceae). 

Origin. — The  zedoary -plant  is  indigenous  to 
India  and  some  of  the  East  Indian  islands,  has 
long  dark -green  leaves  with  a large  purple  spot  in 
the  centre,  and  produces  a short  scape  bearing  a 
raceme  of  yellow  flowers.  The  tuberous ' ovate  or 
pear-shaped  rhizome  is  about  4 or  5 Cm.  (H-2 
inches)  long,  and  is  usually  cut  into  transverse  sec- 
tions before  drying,  sometimes  in  longitudinal  slices. 

Description. — Zedoary  is  met  with  in  the  market  in  the  form  of  nearly  circular 
disks,  varying  in  diameter  from  1 to  4 Cm.  (2-I2  inches)  and  in  thickness  from  4 to  10  Mm. 
(1— | inch).  It  is  externally  of  a grayish-brown  color,  upon  the  transverse  surface  gray- 
ish, and  has  near  the  edge  a dark-colored  circular  endoderm.  The  central  portion  contains 
a large  number  of  small  orange-colored  resin-cells  and  irregularly  scattered  wood-bundles  ; 
both  are  seen  also  outside  of  the  nucleus-sheaths,  though  in  smaller  number.  The  disk 
breaks  with  a short  mealy  or  somewhat  waxy  fracture,  has  a peculiar  aromatic  odor,  and 
a warm  aromatic  somewhat  camphoraceous  taste.  The  starch-granules  are  very  similar 
to  those  of  ginger. 

Allied  Drugs. — The  French  Codex  recognizes  also  round  zedoary,  and  refers  the  latter  to  Cur- 
cuma aromatica,  Roscoe.  The  rhizome  of  this  plant  is  internally  yellow,  and  may  furnish  the 
bright-yellow  disks  which  are  occasionally  seen  among  commercial  zedoary.  The  rhizomes  of 
several  other  species  are  likewise  yellow. 


Constituents. — Bucholz  (1817)  obtained  from  zedoary  starch,  mucilage,  bitter 
extractive,  a pungent  soft  resin,  and  volatile  oil ; the  latter  is  pale-yellow,  of  a thick  con- 
sistence, heavier  than  water,  and  has  a bitterish,  pungent,  and  somewhat  camphoraceous 
taste. 

Medical  Action  and  Uses. — Zedoary  is  usually  regarded  as  being  almost  identi* 
cal  in  its  qualities  with  ginger,  but  more  agreeable,  because  less  burning  and  acrid.  It  is 
used  for  similar  purposes — viz.  to  promote  digestion , expel  flatus , etc.  The  powder  may 
be  prescribed  in  doses  of  from  Gm.  0.60  to  2 (10-30  grains),  or  an  infusion  may  be  made 
with  Gm.  12  or  16  (3-4  drachms)  of  the  bruised  root  to  Gm.  250  (£  pint)  of  wine  or 
water,  and  given  in  tablespoonful  doses. 


ZINCI  ACETAS,  U.  S.,  Br.— Zinc  Acetate. 

Zincum  aceticum , P.  G. ; Acetas  zincicus,  F.  Cod. — Acetate  de  zinc , Fr. ; Zinlmcetat , 
Essigsaures  Zinkoxid , G. ; Acetato  de  zinc.  Sp. 

Formula  Zn(C2H302)22H20.  Molecular  weight  218.74. 

Preparation. — Digest  for  some  time  Commercial  Zinc  Oxide  (or  Carbonate)  2 parts 
in  Acetic  Acid  and  Distilled  Water,  each  5 parts  j then  heat  to  the  boiling-point,  filter 


1720 


ZINCI  ACETAS. 


while  hot,  and  set  aside  to  crystallize.  Drain  the  crystals  in  a funnel,  and  dry  them  upon 
bibulous  paper.  An  additional  quantity  of  crystals  may  be  obtained  by  evaporating  the 
mother-liquor  to  one-half,  slightly  acidulating  with  acetic  acid,  and  crystallizing. — Br. 

On  digesting  zinc  oxide  or  carbonate  with  acetic  acid,  the  zinc  is  dissolved,  in  the 
latter  case  with  the  evolution  of  carbon  dioxide  ; ZnO  + 2HC2H302  yields  Zn(C2H302)2  + 
H20.  An  excess  of  the  zinc  compound  is  used  to  avoid  loss  of  acetic  acid,  and  is 
removed  by  filtration.  Should  the  acetic  acid  not  have  been  diluted  with  too  large  a 
quantity  of  water,  the  hot  filtrate,  on  cooling,  will  deposit  most  of  the  zinc  acetate  as. 
crystals.  The  mother-liquor  should  be  evaporated  without  boiling,  so  as  to  avoid  loss  of 
acetic  acid  and  the  formation  of  basic  salt ; acidulating  the  concentrated  mother-liquor 
with  a little  acetic  acid  will  restore  the  normal  from  the  basic  acetate,  should  the  latter 
have  been  formed. 

Properties. — -Zinc  acetate  crystallizes  in  soft  white  pearly  six-sided  tablets  or  scales, 
which  on  exposure  to  the  air  lose  their  transparency  from  the  evaporation  of  some 
acid  and  water  of  crystallization,  and  have  a slight  acid  reaction,  a slight  acetous  odor, 
and  a sharp  metallic  taste.  The  salt  melts  readily  in  its  water  of  crystallization,  and  on 
continuing  the  heat  parts  with  the  same,  the  loss  amounting  to  22.8  per  cent.,  which  is 
gradually  reabsorbed  in  a moist  atmosphere.  On  dry  distillation  acetic  acid,  carbon  dioxide, 
acetone,  and  empyreumatic  products  pass  over,  a white  pearly  sublimate  is  formed, 
and  zinc  oxide,  mixed  with  a little  charcoal,  remains  behind  ; when  strongly  heated  in 
the  air  upon  a porcelain  plate,  the  salt  is  decomposed,  and  burns  with  a greenish  light 
and  the  production  of  a white  smoke  to  zinc  oxide.  At  ordinary  temperatures  the 
salt  dissolves  in  2.7  parts  of  water,  and  in  a smaller  quantity  (1.5  U.  S.,  or  2 parts 
P.  G .)  at  the  boiling-point.  It  requires  about  36  parts  of  cold  alcohol  and  about  3 
parts  ( U.  S .)  of  boiling  alcohol  for  solution.  Treated  with  sulphuric  acid,  it  is  decom- 
posed with  the  evolution  of  acetic  acid.  The  aqueous  solution  of  the  salt  acquires  a 
dark-red  color  with  ferric  salts,  the  color  being  discharged  on  the  addition  of  hydrochloric 
acid,  and  yields  white  precipitates  with  potassium  ferrocyanide,  hydrogen  sulphide, 
ammonium  sulphide,  ammonia,  and  potassa,  the  precipitates  with  the  last  two  reagents 
being  soluble  in  an  excess  of  the  precipitant,  and  the  colorless  solution  giving  again  a 
white  precipitate  with  hydrogen  sulphide. 

Tests. — u The  solution  of  the  salt  in  10  parts  of  water  should  give  with  an  excess 
of  hydrogen  sulphide  a purely  white  precipitate  (absence  of  lead,  copper,  etc.),  and  the 
filtrate  on  being  evaporated  should  leave  no  fixed  residue  (iron,  earths,  alkalies).  On 
warming  the  salt  with  sulphuric  acid  it  should  not  turn  black  (empyreumatic  products 
and  other  organic  matter).  Its  solution  in  3 parts  of  water  should  be  clear,  and  should 
remain  clear  on  the  further  addition  of  water  (absence  of  basic  salt)/’ — P.  G.  The  U.  S. 
P.  does  not  give  any  tests  for  organic  impurities  or  basic  salt,  and  directs  testing  for 
lead,  arsenic,  and  copper  in  the  acidulated  aqueous  solution  by  hydrogen  sulphide,  and 
for  iron,  aluminum,  calcium,  etc.  by  adding  to  the  solution  excess  of  ammonium  carbon- 
ate, in  which  the  hydroxides  and  carbonates  named  are  insoluble.  “ On  completely  pre- 
cipitating the  zinc  from  this  alkaline  solution  by  ammonium  sulphide,  the  filtrate  should 
leave  no  fixed  residue  on  evaporation  and  gentle  ignition  (salts  of  alkalies  or  of  alkaline 
earths).” — -TJ.  S.  If  this  precipitate,  formed  in  the  solution  of  the  salt,  has  a white 
color,  the  test  excludes  all  impurities  except  aluminum.  The  dilute  watery  solu- 
tion should  not  be  affected  by  barium  chloride  or  silver  nitrate  (sulphate  and  chloride).” — 

U.  s.,  Br. 

Action  and  Uses.— Zinc  acetate  acts  locally  as  an  irritant  and  astringent.  Inter- 
nally, in  large  doses,  it  occasions  vomiting.  There  is  no  reason  to  believe  it  poisonous 
in  any  dose.  Internally,  it  is  rarely  used  in  this  country.  Some  years  ago  it  was 
recommended  after  this  manner  by  certain  German  physicians  in  the  treatment  of 
erysipelas  and  other  febrile  affections  attended  with  delirium , and  occasionally  it  has 
been  employed  to  check  diarrhoea  in  typhoid  fever  and  similar  cases.  Its  chief  use,  how- 
ever, is  as  a local  substitutive  and  astringent  application  in  conjunctivitis , gonorrhoea , and 
leucorrhoea.  For  the  first-named  affection  a collyrium  may  be  made  with  rose-water  or 
mucilage  of  sassafras-pith  in  the  proportion  of  about  Gm.  0.06—0.12  (gr.  j—  ij)  of  the  salt 
to  the  fluidounce,  to  which  a few  drops  of  wine  of  opium  may  be  added.  In  gonorrhoea 
and  leucorrhoea  a customary  injection  is  prepared  by  dissolving  zinc  sulphate  and  lead 
acetate,  of  each  Gm.  0.80  (gr.  xij)  in  Gm.  250  (ffviij)  of  water.  The  salts  react  upon 
one  another,  producing  zinc  acetate  and  lead  sulphate,  the  latter  of  which  is  precipitated. 
The  value  ascribed  to  this  preparation  appears  to  depend  partly  upon  the  modifying  influ- 
ence of  the  insoluble  lead  salt  which  sheathes  the  inflamed  parts.  When  injected  the 


ZINC I BROMID  UM.— ZINCI  CARBON  AS  PRjECIPITATUS. 


1721 


mixture  should  be  shaken.  A similar  injection  is  prepared  with  zinc  sulphate  gr.  vj  ; 
solution  of  lead  subacetate  n\xxx  ; water  fgiv. 

ZINCI  BROMID UM,  IT.  S. — Zinc  Bromide. 

Zincum  bromatum , Bromuretum  zincicum. — Bromure  de  zinc , Fr.  ; Zinkbromid , G. ; 
Bromuro  de  zinc,  Sp. 

Formula  ZnBr>.  Molecular  weight  224.62. 

Preparation. — This  salt  is  most  conveniently  prepared  by  digesting  granulated  zinc 
in  hydrobromic  acid,  in  which  it  dissolves  with  the  evolution  of  hydrogen  ; the  solution 
(filtered  through  asbestos  or  powdered  glass)  is  carefully  concentrated,  acidulated  with  a 
little  hydrobromic  acid,  and  dried  by  the  heat  of  a water-bath. 

Properties. — Zinc  bromide  crystallizes  with  difficulty  from  its  aqueous  solution, 
and  is  therefore  usually  obtained  in  the  form  of  a white  granular  powder.  The  salt  is 
very  deliquescent,  has  a slight  acid  reaction,  is  inodorous,  and  has  a sweet  and  styptic 
metallic  taste  in  diluted  solution.  It  is  freely  soluble  in  water  and  in  alcohol,  and  is  also 
soluble  in  ether.  Its  aqueous  solution  yields  with  silver  nitrate  a white  curdy  precipi- 
tate, which  is  insoluble  in  dilute  nitric  acid  and  nearly  insoluble  in  ammonia  ; it  gives 
white  precipitates  with  potassium  ferrocyanide,  ammonium  sulphide,  ammonia,  and 
potassa,  the  precipitates  with  the  last  two  reagents  being  soluble  in  an  excess  of  the  pre- 
cipitant, and  the  colorless  solution  giving  again  a white  precipitate  with  hydrogen  sul- 
phide. The  salt  melts  on  heating  to  394°  C.  (741.2°  F.),  with  partial  decomposition,  to 
a colorless  or  yellowish  liquid  which  boils  near  700°  C.  (1292°  F.),  and  sublimes  in  white 
needles.  If  a few  drops  of  copper  sulphate  test-solution  be  mixed  with  5 Cc.  of 
aqueous  solution  of  zinc  bromide,  and  then  some  sulphuric  acid  be  carefully  poured  into 
the  mixture  so  as  to  form  a separate  layer,  a deep  brownish-red  color  will  appear  at  the 
line  of  contact,  and  will  disappear  on  shaking  the  mixture. 

Tests. — “ If  to  the  aqueous  solution  of  the  salt  (1  in  20)  a little  starch  test-solution 
be  added,  and  then  some  chlorine-water  drop  by  drop,  the  liquid  should  assume  a pure 
yellow  color,  free  from  any  shade  of  blue  (absence  of  iodine).  After  acidulation  with 
hydrochloric  acid  the  aqueous  solution  should  not  be  colored  or  rendered  turbid  by  the 
addition  of  an  equal  volume  of  hydrogen  sulphide  test-solution  (absence  of  arsenic,  cad- 
mium. lead,  copper,  etc.).  On  adding  ammonium  carbonate  test-solution  to  the  aqueous 
solution  of  zinc  bromide,  a white  precipitate  is  produced,  which  should  completely  redis- 
solve in  an  excess  of  the  reagent  (absence  of  iron,  aluminum,  calcium,  etc.).  If  from 
this  solution  in  ammonium  carbonate  test-solution  all  the  zinc  be  precipitated  by  ammo- 
nium sulphide  test-solution,  the  filtrate  should  leave  no  fixed  residue  on  evaporation 
(absence  of  alkalies,  magnesium,  etc.).  If  0.3  Grn.  of  the  dry  salt  be  dissolved  in  10  Cc. 
of  water,  and  2 drops  of  potassium  chromate  test-solution  be  added,  it  should  require 
26.7  Cc.  of  decinormal  silver  nitrate  test-solution  to  produce  a permanent  red  color  (cor- 
responding to  not  less  than  99.95  per  cent,  of  the  pure  salt).” — IT.  S. 

The  aqueous  solution  of  the  salt  should  be  clear  (absence  of  basic  salt),  should  not  be 
precipitated  by  barium  nitrate  (sulphate),  and  if  precipitated  by  silver  nitrate  and  the 
mixture  rendered  alkaline  by  ammonia,  the  filtrate,  on  being  acidulated  with  nitric  acid, 
should  merely  produce  a slight  turbidity,  but  not  a curdy  precipitate  (chloride). 

Action  and  Uses. — It  may  be  conjectured  that  in  proposing  zinc  bromide  as  a 
medicine  a vague  idea  was  entertained  of  its  uniting  in  itself  the  powers  of  two  medi- 
cines, both  of  which  are  useful  in  spasmodic  affections,  and  especially  in  chorea  and  epi- 
lepsy. That  any  dose  of  bromine  which  can  be  combined  with  a suitable  dose  of  zinc 
should  exert  a sensible  effect  is  quite  improbable.  We  know  of  nothing  that  proves  the 
clinical  value  of  this  salt,  unless  it  be  the  statement  that  some  years  ago  it  was  tested  at 
the  Salpetriere  in  Paris  with  satisfactory  results  in  the  treatment  of  epilepsy.  The  com- 
mencing dose  of  1 grain  daily  was  increased  to  25  grains  or  more.  Had  its  virtues  been 
proven,  it  would  probably  have  been  heard  of  again,  which  has  not  been  the  case. 
Gowers  (1880)  says  of  it,  “ it  seemed  of  small  value,  and  is  borne  badly.”  Its  dose  may 
safely  be  that  of  the  oxide  of  zinc — viz.  Gm.  0.06  (gr.  j)  and  upward. 

ZINCI  CARBONAS  PRJECIPITATUS,  IT.  S.—  Precipitated  Zinc  Car- 
bonate. 

Zinci  carbonas , Br.  ; Hydrocarbonas  zindcus,  F.  Cod.  ; Zincum  cnrbonicum. — Sous-carbo- 
nate , Hydrocarbonate  de  zinc,  Fr.  ; Zinkcarbonat,  Kohlensaures  Zinkoxyd,  G. 


1722 


ZINCI  CHLORII)  UM. 


Formula  2ZnC03.3Zn(G)H)2.  (?)  Molecular  weight  546.94.  (?) 

Preparation. — Take  of  Zinc  Sulphate  10  ounces;  Sodium  Carbonate  10?  ounces; 
Boiling  Distilled  Water  a sufficiency.  Dissolve  the  sodium  carbonate  with  a pint  of  the 
water  in  a capacious  porcelain  vessel,  and  pour  into  it  the  zinc  sulphate,  also  dissolved 
in  a pint  of  the  water,  stirring  diligently.  Boil  for  fifteen  minutes  after  effervescence 
has  ceased,  and  let  the  precipitate  subside.  Decant  the  supernatant  liquor,  pour  on  the 
precipitate  3 pints  of  boiling  distilled  water,  agitating  briskly  ; let  the  precipitate  again 
subside,  and  repeat  the  processes  of  affusion  of  hot  distilled  water  and  subsidence  till  the 
washings  are  no  longer  precipitated  by  barium  chloride.  Collect  the  precipitate  on  calico, 
let  it  drain,  and  dry  it  with  a gentle  heat. — Br. 

The  French  Codex  has  adopted  a similar  process,  and  directs  adding  10  parts  of  zinc 
sulphate,  dissolved  in  50  parts  of  water,  to  a boiling  solution  of  11  parts  of  sodium  car- 
bonate in  50  parts  of  water,  and  drying  the  washed  precipitate  at  50°  C.  (122°  F.). 

On  adding  cold  solutions  of  sodium  carbonate  and  zinc  sulphate  together,  neutral  zinc 
carbonate  is  precipitated  ; Na2C03  -f  ZnS04  yields  Na2S04  -f-  ZnC03.  The  gelatinous  pre- 
cipitate rapidly  undergoes  decomposition,  carbon  dioxide  being  evolved  ; and  this  renders 
another  portion  of  the  precipitate  soluble.  But  if  the  mixture  is  boiled,  the  carbon 
dioxide  is  expelled  from  the  liquid  and  the  whole  of  the  zinc  is  precipitated.  Adding 
the  solution  of  zinc  sulphate  to  that  of  sodium  carbonate  while  boiling  hot  keeps  the 
precipitate  free  from  sodium  compound,  and  the  sodium  sulphate  which  is  formed  at  the 
same  time  is  readily  removed  by  washing  with  water.  Potassium  carbonate  is  not  so 
well  adapted  for  this  process  as  the  sodium  salt,  because  the  resulting  potassium  sulphate 
is  less  freely  soluble  in  water  ; and  ammonium  carbonate  is  unsuitable,  since  a complete 
precipitation  of  the  zinc  cannot  be  effected. 

Properties. — Zinc  carbonate  is  a soft,  impalpable,  white,  inodorous,  and  tasteless 
powder  of  somewhat  variable  chemical  composition,  permanent  in  the  air,  insoluble  in 
water  and  other  simple  solvents,  but  dissolving  readily  in  acetic  and  dilute  mineral  acids, 
with  the  evolution  of  carbon  dioxide,  and  soluble  also  in  aqueous  solutions  of  ammonium 
salts.  When  heated  in  a crucible  to  redness  it  parts  with  its  water  and  carbon  dioxide, 
and  leaves  about  70  per  cent,  of  oxide  of  zinc.  Its  solution  in  dilute  sulphuric  acid 
shows  the  chemical  behavior  described  under  Zinci  Sulphas. 

Composition. — According  to  Ji.  Bose  (1852),  this  is  influenced  by  the  temperature 
during  the  preparation  and  drying  of  the  salt ; it  contains  between  5 and  7 ZnO  to  2 C02, 
but  the  proportion  of  water  is  more  variable.  The  formula  given  above  is  that  formerly 
recognized  by  the  U.  S.  P.,  while  3ZnC03.5Zn(0H)2*H20  is  given  by  the  French  Codex. 

Tests. — The  purity  of  zinc  carbonate  is  ascertained  by  dissolving  it  in  dilute  sul- 
phuric acid  and  testing  in  precisely  the  same  manner  as  for  zinc  sulphate.  The  Phar- 
macopoeia in  addition  directs  the  two  following  tests  : No  insoluble  residue  should  be  left 
if  0.5  Gim.  of  zinc  carbonate  be  dissolved  in  10  Cc.  of  diluted  sulphuric  acid  (absence  of 
lead).  If  1 Grin,  of  the  salt  be  placed  in  a flask  with  10  Cc.  of  boiling  water  and  2 drops 
of  phenolphtalein  test-solution  be  added,  not  more  than  1 Cc.  of  decinormal  oxalic  acid 
solution  should  be  required  to  discharge  the  red  color  (limit  of  alkali). 

Uses. — Zinc  carbonate  is  seldom  given  internally,  and  its  topical  application  is  con- 
fined to  those  excoriated  or  inflamed  surfaces  which  it  is  desirable  to  protect  from  the  air 
and  moderately  to  constringe.  Hence  in  .powder  it  is  very  useful  for  healing  blisters  and 
other  superficial  sores  which  resist  milder  applications,  to  prevent  the  friction  that  occa- 
sions intertrigo  and  to  cure  abrasions  when  they  occur.  It  is  most  frequently  applied  in 
the  form  of  ointment. 

ZINCI  CHLORIDUM,  TJ.  Br. — Zinc  Chloride. 

Zfincum  chloratum , P.  Gr. ; Chloruretum  zincicum  F.  Cod. — Chlorure  de  zinc , Fr. ; Zink- 
chlorid , C hlorzink,  Gr. ; Cloruro  de  zinc , Sp. 

Formula  ZnCl2.  Molecular  weight  135.84. 

Preparation. — The  British  Pharmacopoeia  repeats  the  directions  given  for  prepar- 
ing Liquor  Zinci  Chloridi  (see  p.  987),  except  that  the  last  filtrate  is  to  be  evapo- 
rated in  a porcelain  basin  until  a portion  of  the  liquid,  withdrawn  on  the  end  of  a glass 
rod  and  cooled,  forms  an  opaque  white  solid ; the  liquid  is  then  poured  into  proper 
moulds,  and  when  the  salt  has  solidified,  but  before  it  has  cooled,  it  is  placed  in  closely- 
stoppered  bottles. 

The  reactions  occurring  in  the  preparation  and  purification  of  zinc  chloride  are  explained 
on  page  987.  Since  zinc  chloride  destroys  vegetable  fibre  and  transforms  cellulose  and 


ZINC1  CHLOEIDUM. 


1723 


starch  into  soluble  modifications,  its  solution  should  not  be  filtered  through  paper,  but 
through  asbestos  or  powdered  glass  ; otherwise  the  fused  salt  will  be  black.  Toward  the 
close  of  the  evaporation  of  the  solution  the  heat  should  be  regulated  so  as  not  to  decom- 
pose the  salt,  and  in  case  the  fused  mass  should  become  opaque  from  the  separation  of 
basic  salt  a little  hydrochloric  acid  should  be  added.  If  the  salt  is  desired  for  solution 
in  water,  the  liquid  is  evaporated  and  continually  stirred  until  a granular  powder  remains, 
a few  drops  of  hydrochloric  acid  being  added  toward  the  close  of  the  process. 

Properties. — Zinc  chloride  is  either  in  the  form  of  a white  crystalline  powder  or 
in  opaque  tablets  or  rods.  It  is  inodorous,  has  a strongly  caustic  and  metallic  taste,  is 
very  deliquescent  on  exposure,  has  an  acid  reaction,  and  when  heated  to  a little  over 
100°  C.  (115°  C.  = 239°  F.,  U.  S .)  it  melts  to  a colorless  liquid  which  congeals  to  a 
white  mass ; at  a higher  heat  it  is  partly  volatilized,  forming  white  fumes  and  leaves  a 
yellowish  residue;  but  when  heated  in  a current  of  chlorine  gas  the  salt  sublimes  in 
acicular  crystals.  Zinc  chloride  is  freely  soluble  in  water  (0.3  part,  U.  S.),  but  usually 
yields  with  water  an  opalescent  solution  from  the  presence  of  a little  oxychloride,  which 
is  readily  dissolved  by  a few  drops  of  hydrochloric  acid  ; the  solution  dissolves  starch, 
paper,  and  other  organic  compounds.  Zinc  chloride  dissolves  also  freely  in  alcohol,  and 
somewhat  less  freely  in  ether.  In  contact  with  sulphuric  acid  it  is  converted  into  zinc 
sulphate.  Its  solutions  yield  white  precipitates  with  ammonium  sulphide,  ammonia,  and 
with  silver  nitrate,  the  last  two  being  readily  soluble  in  an  excess  of  ammonia.  On  mix- 
ing a concentrated  solution  of  zinc  chloride  with  zinc  oxide  a plastic  mass  of  zinc  oxy- 
chloride is  obtained,  which  soon  hardens. 

Tests. — The  pharmacopoeial  requirements  for  the  purity  of  zinc  chloride  are  as  fol- 
lows : ” The  aqueous  solution  (1  in  20)  should  be  clear,  or  at  most  only  very  slightly 
opalescent,  and,  if  it  be  mixed  with  an  equal  volume  of  alcohol,  a single  drop  of  hydro- 
chloric acid  should  suffice  to  render  10  Cc.  of  the  mixture  perfectly  clear  (limit  of  oxy- 
chloride). If  to  the  aqueous  solution,  acidulated  with  hydrochloric  acid,  an  equal  volume 
of  hydrogen  sulphide  test-solution  be  added,  it  should  not  become  colored  or  turbid 
(absence  of  arsenic,  cadmium,  lead,  copper,  etc.).  If  ammonium  carbonate  test-solution 
be  added  to  the  solution,  the  precipitate  should  be  of  a pure  white  color,  and  completely 
redissolve  in  an  excess  of  the  reagent  (absence  of  iron,  aluminum,  calcium,  etc.).  If 
from  this  solution  in  ammonium  carbonate  test-solution  the  zinc  be  completely  precipi- 
tated by  ammonium  sulphide  test-solution,  the  filtrate  should  leave  no  fixed  residue  on 
evaporation  (absence  of  alkalies,  magnesium,  etc.).  The  aqueous  solution  should  not  be 
rendered  turbid  by  the  addition  of  barium  chloride  test-solution  (absence  of  sulphate). 
If  0.3  Gm.  of  dry  zinc  chloride  be  dissolved  in  10  Cc.  of  water,  and  2 drops  of  potas- 
sium chromate  test-solution  be  added,  it  should  require  44.1  Cc.  of  decinormal  silver 
nitrate  solution  to  produce  a permanent  red  color  (corresponding  to  not  less  than  99.84 
per  cent,  of  the  pure  salt).’ — U.  S.  The  P.  G.  requires  the  salt  to  form  a clear  and  col- 
orless solution  with  an  equal  weight  of  water ; on  the  addition  of  3 parts  of  alcohol  a 
flocculent  precipitate  may  form  which  should  dissolve  on  adding  1 drop  of  hydrochloric 
acid. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Causticum  cum  chlorureto  zincico,  F.  Cod, — Chlo- 
ride-of-zinc  pencils,  E. ; Pate  de  Canquoin,  Fr. — Dissolve  zinc  chloride  32  Gm.  in  cold 
distilled  water  4 Gm. ; add  zinc  oxide  8 Gm.,  previously  mixed  with  well-dried  wheat 
flour  24  Gm. ; triturate  so  as  to  obtain  a paste,  and  form  this  into  cylinders  or  other  shaped 
pieces,  which  are  to  be  completely  dried  in  an  air-bath  at  a temperature  gradually  raised 
from  50°  to  100°  C.  (122°-212°  F.). 

Action  and  Uses. — Applied  externally,  zinc  chloride  is  powerfully  corrosive,  and, 
although  very  painful,  is  perhaps  less  so  than  corrosive  sublimate  or  arsenic.  Its  first 
application  produces  a sense  of  warmth  and  more  or  less  redness.  Upon  the  denuded 
skin  its  action  is  more  rapid  as  well  as  more  painful,  but  it  does  not  extend  beyond  the 
limits  of  the  caustic.  If  it  is  made  to  penetrate  deeply,  it  coagulates  the  blood  in  the 
vessels  and  converts  the  soft  tissues  into  a tough,  dry,  and  uniform  mass  which  is  not 
fetid,  and  which  separates  in  from  one  to  two  weeks,  leaving  behind  a clean  granulating 
surface  that  tends  to  rapid  cicatrization.  The  case  is  reported  by  Dr.  Nichols  of  a man 
who  had  applied  to  an  epithelioma  of  the  lip,  first,  a strong  potash  lotion,  and  then  a 
paste  composed  as  follows:  Zinc  chloride  starch  ^iij,  podophyllin  %ss.  It  caused 
extreme  pain  in  the  part,  followed  by  gastric  pain,  and  then  by  unconsciousness,  stertor, 
dilated  and  fixed  pupils,  a small,  weak  pulse  at  110,  flushed  face,  cold  perspiration,  con- 
vulsions, coma,  and  death  in  about  eight  hours.  No  internal  lesions  were  found  to  explain 
the  cause  of  death  (Boston  Med.  and  Burg.  Jour.,  Oct.  1880,  p.  343). 


1724 


ZINCI  CHLORWUM. 


The  rare  occasions  in  which  zinc  chloride  may  be  given  internally  have  been  already 
pointed  out.  (See  Liquor  Zinci  Chloridi.)  In  the  same  connection  its  uses  as  a disin- 
fectant were  noticed.  When,  owing  to  the  timidity  of  patients  or  any  other  cause,  the 
knife  cannot  be  employed  for  the  removal  of  malignant  and  other  morbid  growths , this 
preparation  is  preferred  before  other  caustic  applications,  because  it  runs  no  risk  of  poison- 
ing the  system,  and  because  its  action  is  limited  to  the  points  of  its  contact  with  the 
tissues.  It  was  originally  alleged  to  be  much  more  successful  than  excision  in  the  treat- 
ment of  cancer,  and,  indeed,  to  have  cured  four-fifths  of  the  cases  in  which  it  was 
employed ; it  was  also  thought  to  possess  the  advantage  of  acting  on  the  diseased  rather 
than  on  the  healthy  tissues.  These  conclusions  have  been  proved  groundless,  as  well  as 
the  allegation  that  the  pain  produced  by  the  application  is  inconsiderable.  On  the  con- 
trary, the  pain  caused  by  zinc  chloride  far  exceeds  that  occasioned  by  the  knife,  even 
without  the  use  of  anaesthetics,  and  is  of  much  longer  duration.  To  what  degree  this 
caustic  is  capable  of  preventing  a return  of  cancerous  disease  is  still  undetermined.  It 
is  very  positively  alleged  by  competent  authorities  that  the  recurrence  of  cancerous 
tumors  is  due  mainly  to  their  incomplete  extirpation  by  excision,  and  that  this  and  some 
other  caustics  reach  and  destroy  the  cancerous  germs  more  effectually  than  a surgical 
operation. 

The  mode  of  action  here  attributed  to  zinc  chloride  was  long  since  pointed  out  by 
Bonnet.  He  remarked  that  when  applied  as  a paste  in  the  neighborhood  of  large  blood- 
vessels, arteries,  or  veins,  its  caustic  action  does  not  occasion  haemorrhage,  but  under  its 
influence  they  contract  and  shrivel,  and  only  remain  as  thin,  hard,  and  apparently  solid 
strings.  The  experiments  of  Gersuny  and  Gjorgjevie  on  dogs  and  rabbits  exhibited  a 
similar  result,  for  even  when  the  chloride  was  applied  to  wounds  in  which  large  veins 
were  exposed  the  vessels  were  not  penetrated,  there  was  no  haemorrhage,  and  their  walls 
collapsed  and  shrivelled.  In  1878,  Dr.  Carl  Langenbuch  treated  a case  of  rodent  ulcer , 
or  of  lupus  exedens , affecting  the  face  and  neck  and  laying  bare  the  large  blood-vessels 
of  the  cervical  region — a case  in  which  instrumental  interference  was  out  of  the  ques- 
tion— by  means  of  zinc  chloride,  with  the  result  of  arresting  the  ulceration,  suspending 
the  circulation  through  the  exposed  vessels,  and  securing  a perfect  cure.  He  also  refers 
to  a similar  treatment  of  gangrenous  ulcers  in  the  Franco-German  War  of  1870-71.  In 
these  cases  the  pure  chloride  was  applied  in  the  manner  described  below  as  Cooke’s.  It 
appears,  therefore,  that  the  action  of  this  compound  is  not  properly  a caustic  action  ; it 
mummifies  the  tissues,  but  does  not  destroy  them.  Of  late  years  zinc  chloride  has  been 
used  in  the  treatment  of  cancer  and  other  affections  of  the  cavity  of  the  uterus.  Fraen- 
kel,  after  curetting  the  diseased  surface  and  applying  Paquelin’s  cautery,  made  use  of 
injections  of  the  chloride  (2  : 3).  Superficial  sloughing  and  a cure  followed  ( Therap . 
Monatsh .,  iii.  34).  Later  on  he  denied  that  this  method  tended  to  cause  adhesions 
between  the  opposite  walls  of  the  uterine  cavity,  provided  that  dilating  bougies  were 
duly  employed.  Czerny  used  4 parts  of  the  chloride  and  1 part  of  the  zinc  oxide  with 
3 parts  of  flour  enclosed  in-  gauze  and  secured  with  a string,  forming  a tampon  applied 
after  the  use  of  the  curette  and  the  cessation  of  haemorrhage.  It  was  allowed  to  remain 
in  place  about  six  hours,  or  less  if  there  seemed  to  be  any  risk  to  the  rectal  or  vesical 
septum.  On  its  removal  it  was  replaced  by  iodoform  gauze  (Am.  Jour.  Med.  Sci.,  Oct. 

1888,  p.  432).  A similar  plan  was  employed  by  Dumontpallier  (Archives  gen.,  Juill. 

1889,  pp.  Ill,  369).  This  compound  has  been  used  for  the  cure  of  uterine  and  vaginal 
leucorrhcea  and  gonorrhoea  and  hsemorrhagic  endometritis  (Med.  News , liii.  530  ; Therap. 
Monatsh.,  iii.  35).  Landerer  has  reported  the  successful  treatment  of  small  cystic  tumors 
(ganglion,  ranula,  hygroma)  by  injecting  them  with  a 1 per  cent,  solution  of  zinc  chloride 
(Centralb.  f.  Ther.,  vii.  738).  In  1879  cases  of  nasal  polypi  were  cured  by  injecting  the 
tumors  with  zinc  chloride,  and  in  the  following  year  several  others  were  reported  (Archives 
gen.  de  Med.,  Mars,  1880,  p.  353 ; Med.  Record,  xviii.  433).  In  1881  additional  cases 
were  furnished  by  Dr.  Reynolds  of  Kentucky  (Trans.  Amer.  Med.  Assoc.,  xxxii.  237). 
The  stronger  preparations  have  been  used  to  destroy  anastomotic  aneurisms  and  to  open 
abscesses  where  puncture  or  incision  might  be  dangerous,  as  abscesses  of  the  liver.  Zinc 
chloride  has  been  applied  to  destroy  the  hardened  tissues  surrounding  cavities  and  fistulas 
following  the  suppuration  of  scrofulous  glands,  and  is  said  to  possess  the  advantage 
over  other  methods  of  local  treatment  of  not  leaving  behind  it  irregular  or  unsightly 
scars.  It  has  also  been  employed  to  fill  the  cavities  of  carious  teeth,  especially  of  the 
incisors. 

Several  modes  of  applying  zinc  chloride  as  a caustic  have  been  employed.  The  old- 
est is  that  of  Canquoin,  who  made  use  of  a paste  containing  1 part  by  weight  of  the 


ZINCI  IODIDUM. 


1725 


chloride  to  2,  3,  4,  or  5 parts  of  rye  flour  ; or  5 parts  of  the  chloride  and  10  of  rye  flour 
made  into  a paste  with  2 parts  of  glycerin  may  be  used.  Gluten  has  been  used  as  an 
excipient  instead  of  flour.  Mayet’s  paste  is  made  as  follows : Zinc  chloride  8 parts ; zinc 
oxide  1 part;  wheaten  flour,  dried  at  212°  F.,  7 parts;  water  1 part.  Mix  the  zinc 
oxide  and  the  flour,  dissolve  the  zinc  chloride  in  the  water,  and  add  to  the  solution  the 
mixture  of  zinc  oxide  and  flour.  Rub  the  paste  in  a mortar  for  ten  minutes.  Cooke’s 
method  consists  in  saturating  lint  with  the  deliquesced  salt,  and  keeping  it,  after  it  is 
dried,  in  a close  box  of  wood  or  pasteboard.  The  lint  when  used  must  be  cut  with 
scissors  that  can  be  spared,  since  it  ruins  steel  instruments.  A convenience  of  this 
preparation  is  that  it  can  be  applied  in  pieces  proportioned  to  the  size  of  the  part  to  be 
acted  upon.  A similar  advantage  is  possessed  by  a mixture  of  zinc  chloride  and  gutta- 
percha in  equal  parts ; its  caustic  action  is  attenuated  by  the  inert  and  insoluble  portion 
of  it.  Conical  or  arrow-shaped  bodies  made  with  zinc  chloride  alone,  or  of  this  salt  and 
potassium  nitrate,  are  sometimes  thrust  into  incisions  made  in  the  tumor  to  be  acted  upon. 
Before  applying  any  of  these  mixtures  the  cuticle,  if  unbroken,  must  be  removed  by 
means  of  strong  ammonia. 

ZINCI  IODIDUM,  U.  S.— Zinc  Iodide. 

Ioduretum  zincicum. — Iodure  de  zinc , Fr. ; Zinkjodid , G. ; Ioduro  de  zinc , Sp. 

Formula  Znl2.  Molecular  weight  318.16. 

Preparation. — This  salt  may  be  prepared  by  dissolving  zinc  oxide  or  carbonate  in 
hydrioaic  acid,  or,  according  to  Doepp  (1839),  by  digesting  in  a flask  3 parts  of  granu- 
lated zinc,  10  parts  of  iodine,  and  20  parts  of  water  until  the  liquid  has  become  colorless, 
when  it  is  filtered  through  asbestos  or  powdered  glass,  and  rapidly  evaporated  to  dryness 
at  a moderate  heat.  The  yield  is  121  parts.  The  salt  should  be  at  once  put  into  vials, 
which  are  to  be  kept  carefully  stoppered. 

Properties. — Zinc  iodide  resembles  zinc  chloride  and  bromide,  is  a white  granular, 
crystalline,  inodorous  powder,  and  has  a caustic  and  metallic  or  in  diluted  solution 
a sweetish  and  styptic  taste  and  an  acid  reaction.  On  exposure  it  is  very  deliquescent, 
and  gradually  becomes  colored  by,  and  acquires  the  odor  of,  free  iodine.  It  is  freely 
soluble  in  water  and  alcohol,  and  the  solution  on  being  largely  diluted  with  water  sepa- 
rates a gelatinous  precipitate  of  zinc  hydroxide  (Rammelsberg).  It  readily  forms  basic 
compounds,  an  oxyiodide,  soluble  in  warm  and  insoluble  in  cold  water,  being  produced  by 
the  prolonged  digestion  of  iodine  and  zinc  with  water.  The  iodide  melts  when  carefully 
heated  to  446°  C.  (834.8°  F.)  to  a colorless  liquid,  and  may  be  sublimed  in  quadrangular 
needles,  but  on  being  heated  in  the  air  is  decomposed  into  iodine  and  zinc  oxide.  The 
aqueous  solution  gives  white  precipitates  with  ammonium  sulphide,  potassium  ferro- 
cyanide,  ammonia,  and  potassa,  the  last  two  being  soluble  in  an  excess  of  the  precipitants, 
and  it  yields  a scarlet-red  precipitate  with  mercuric  chloride,  a bright-yellow  one  with 
lead  acetate,  and  a pale-yellow  one  with  silver  nitrate,  the  latter  being  insoluble  in 
ammonia  and  in  nitric  acid.  The  salt,  warmed  with  strong  sulphuric  acid,  liberates  iodine 
and  sulphur  dioxide,  zinc  sulphate  being  formed  at  the  same  time. 

Tests. — The  absence  of  foreign  metals  is  ascertained  in  precisely  the  same  manner  as 
in  zinc  chloride  and  bromide,  and  the  absence  of  sulphate  by  the  solution  not  producing 
a precipitate  with  barium  chloride.  The  absence  of  other  zinc  salts  may  be  ascertained 
as  follows  : 1 Gm.  of  the  dry  salt,  when  completely  precipitated  with  silver  nitrate,  yields 
1.472  -|-  Gm.  of  dry  silver  iodide.  Bromide  and  chloride,  if  present,  increase  the  weight 
of  the  silver  precipitate.  The  Pharmacopoeia  admits  a salt  containing  98.62  per  cent, 
of  pure  zinc  iodide,  as  seen  from  the  following  test:  If  0.5  Gm.  of  dry  zinc  iodide  be 
dissolved  in  10  Cc.  of  water,  and  2 drops  of  potassium  chromate  test-solution  be  added, 
not  more  than  31.4  Cc.  nor  less  than  31.0  Cc.  of  decinormal  silver  nitrate  solution  should 
be  required  to  produce  a permanent  red  color  (31.4  Cc.  corresponding  to  100  (99.9)  per 
cent.,  and  31.0  Cc.  to  98.62  per  cent,  of  pure  zinc  iodide).  This  seems  to  be  almost  too 
strict  a requirement,  in  view  of  the  alterations  taking  place  on  exposure.  Hager  sug- 
gests the  following  test,  which  requires  at  least  95  per  cent,  of  pure  Znl2 : 0.5  Gm.  of 
the  dry  salt  should  yield  with  5 Gm.  of  alcohol  a nearly  clear  solution  free  from  crystal- 
line deposit;  add  to  this  liquid  0.6  Gm.  of  silver  nitrate  dissolved  in  30  Gm.  of  water, 
afterward  5 Gm.  of  ammonia-water,  agitate  well,  and  filter  ; the  precipitate  when  dried 
should  weigh  not  less  than  0.7  Gm.,  and  the  filtrate  on  being  acidulated  with  nitric  acid 
should  remain  clear  or  at  most  become  faintly  opalescent,  but  should  not  produce  a curdy 
precipitate. 


1726 


ZINCI  OXIDUM. 


Pharmaceutical  Preparation.— Syrupus  zinci  iodidi,  Syrup  of  zinc  iodide. 
Digest  2 troyounces  of  iodine  and  5 drachms  of  granulated  zinc  in  8 ounces  of  water, 
and  when  the  color  of  iodine  has  disappeared  pass  the  liquid  through  a small  filter  into  a 
bottle  containing  15  troyounces  of  sugar;  wash  the  filter  with  a little  water  and  dissolve 
the  sugar  by  agitation.  The  syrup  should  measure  20  fluidounces,  and  is  of  about  the 
same  iodine  strength  as  the  syrup  of  iodide  of  iron  (A.  B.  Taylor,  1852).  This  is  the 
most  convenient  form  for  the  administration  of  zinc  iodide. 

Uses. — As  long  ago  as  1853  this  compound  was  recommended  in  hysterical  chorea 
( Lancet , Dec.  1853,  p.  264),  and  later  in  various  scrofulous  affections  of  the  skin  and 
eyes  (Guibert,  Nouveaux  Medicaments , 1864).  It  resembles  zinc  chloride  as  a caustic. 
It  was  used  by  Lente  as  an  application  to  the  Eustachian  tube  in  certain  cases  of  deaf- 
ness ( Amer . Jour.  Med.  Sci.,  Oct.  1859,  p.  390),  and  by  Boss  as  an  application  to  enlarged 
and  indurated  tonsils.  A solution  of  Gm.  0.06—0.12  in  Gm.  30  (gr.  i— ij  in  fjj)  of  water 
has  been  employed  as  an  injection  in  gonorrhoea  and  leucorrhoea.  It  seemed  to  be  entirely 
obsolete  when  it  was  revived  in  the  Pharmacopoeia  of  1880.  Its  dose  is  said  to  be  Gm. 
0.03-0.12  (gr.  ss-ij). 

ZINCI  OXIDUM,  V.  S.,  Br.— Zinc  Oxide. 

Zineum  oxydatum , P.  G. ; Oxydum  zincicum,  F.  Cod.  ; Flores  zinci. — Oxyde  de  zinc , 
Fr.  ; Zinkoxyd , G.  ; Oxido  de  zinc , Sp. 

Formula  ZnO.  Molecular  weight  81.06. 

Preparation. — Place  zinc  carbonate  in  a loosely-covered  Hessian  crucible,  and  expose 
it  to  a dull  red  heat  until  a portion,  taken  from  the  centre  of  the  contents  of  the  crucible 
and  cooled,  no  longer  effervesces  when  dropped  into  diluted  sulphuric  acid.  Let  the  cruci- 
ble cool,  and  transfer  the  product  to  stoppered  bottles. — Br. 

Nearly  identical  is  the  process  of  the  French  Codex  for  oxyde  de  zinc  par  voie  humide. 
Wh  en  heated,  zinc  carbonate  parts  with  its  water  and  carbon  dioxide,  leaving  zinc  oxide 
behind.  The  operation  is  known  to  be  finished  when  a small  portion,  taken  from  the 
centre  of  the  vessel  and  mixed  with  a little  water,  no  longer  produces  effervescence  on 
being  dropped  into  dilute  sulphuric  acid.  A dull  red  heat,  as  directed  by  both  pharma- 
copoeias, is  not  necessary  for  this  purpose.  Mohr  observed  that  a temperature  of  280°  C. 
(536°  F.)  is  sufficient  for  obtaining  the  oxide,  and,  according  to  Hager,  all  carbon  dioxide 
is  expelled  at  250°  C.  (482°  F.).  With  quantities  of  from  6 to  12  ounces  of  zinc  car- 
bonate the  operation  is  conveniently  performed  in  a glass  flask  placed  in  a sand-bath  and 
heated  by  means  of  gas  or  on  a stove.  The  capacity  of  the  flask  should  be  about  double 
the  volume  of  the  powdered  carbonate.  If  the  zinc  carbonate  is  not  previously  powdered, 
a higher  heat  and  a longer  time  are  required  for  expelling  all  the  carbon  dioxide.  If 
the  carbon  dioxide  be  driven  off  below  a red  heat,  or  if  the  heating  to  dull  redness  has 
not  been  prolonged  unnecessarily,  the  cold  zinc  oxide  has  a white  color,  but  after  having 
been  exposed  to  a full  red  heat  it  will  retain  after  cooling  a more  or  less  decided  yellow 
tint. 

The  French  Codex  recognizes  also  an  oxyde  de  zinc  par  voie  seche , which  is  made  by 
melting  pure  zinc  in  an  inclined  crucible  in  contact  with  air  to  a bright  red  heat,  when  it 
takes  fire  and  burns  to  oxide,  which  condenses  in  the  upper  part  of  the  crucible  or  in 
suitable  vessels  suspended  over  it,  and  after  cooling  is  passed  through  a fine  sieve.  The 
same  product,  though  less  pure,  was  recognized  by  the  U.  S.  P.  1870  as  Zinci  oxidum 
VENALE  (zinc-white)  ; Zineum  oxydatum  crudum,  P.  G.  ; Flores  zinci,  Pompholix,  Nihil 
album,  Lana  pliilosophica.  This  was  recommended  by  Courtois  (1780)  as  a pigment  in 
in  place  of  white  lead,  but  began  to  be  used  as  such  about  1844,  after  Leclair  had 
elaborated  a process  for  making  it  at  a sufficiently  low  rate.  At  present  it  is  usually  pre- 
pared directly  from  zinc  ores  by  processes  identical  with  or  similar  to  those  recommended 
by  W.  J.  Taylor  (1861)  and  G.  Darlington  (1862).  A mixture  of  zinc  ore  and  coal  is 
packed  in  a suitable  furnace  upon  a layer  of  coke,  previously  ignited,  and  heated  by 
means  of  a blast,  and  the  vapors  of  zinc  oxide,  which  are  at  first  more  or  less  mixed  with 
particles  of  charcoal,  are  conducted  into  a chamber,  where  they  condense  as  a gray  pow- 
der. As  soon  as  the  condensing  product  has  a white  color  the  vapors  are  passed  into 
another  chamber,  where  they  condense  as  zinc-white.  The  gray  product  is  identical  with 
the  impure  oxide  of  zinc,  which  was  formerly  used  in  medicine  under  the  names  of  tutia, 
cadmia  fornacum,  or  tv  tty. 

Properties. — Zinc  oxide  is  a soft,  inodorous  and  tasteless,  pale-yellowish,  nearly 
white  powder,  which  on  being  heated  acquires  a deep  lemon-yellow  color,  and  on  cooling 


ZINCI  OXIDUM. 


1727 


becomes  again  nearly  white.  After  having  been  heated  to  bright  redness  it  continues  for 
some  time  to  emit  light  in  the  dark.  It  dissolves  in  dilute  acetic  and  other  acids  without 
effervescence,  is  completely  insoluble  in  simple  solvents  and  in  saccharine  liquids,  and  is 
without  action  on  test-paper.  According  to  Daubree,  it  may  be  obtained  crystallized  by 
heating  zinc  chloride  in  a current  of  steam.  On  exposure  to  the  atmosphere  it  slowly 
absorbs  water  and  gradually  also  carbon  dioxide. 

Tests. — Zinc  oxide  may  contain  traces  of  chloride  or  sulphate,  which  are  detected  in 
the  solution  in  dilute  nitric  acid  by  silver  nitrate  and  barium  nitrate.  The  liquid  obtained 
on  boiling  zinc  oxide  with  water  and  filtering  should  not  have  an  alkaline  reaction  from 
the  presence  of  sodium  carbonate.  The  solution  of  the  oxide  in  hydrochloric  acid  should 
not  assume  a red  color  on  the  addition  of  potassium  sulphocyanate  (iron),  should  not 
be  colored  or  precipitated  by  hydrogen  sulphide  (lead  and  similar  metals),  and  should  be 
completely  precipitated  with  a white  color  by  ammonium  sulphide  ; the  filtrate  from  this 
precipitate,  after  having  been  boiled,  should  not  be  disturbed  on  the  addition  of  ammo- 
nium oxalate  (calcium)  or  of  ammonium  phosphate  (magnesium).  The  U.  S.  P.  does  not 
give  any  tests  for  acidulous  radicals,  and  directs  testing  for  foreign  bases  after  dissolving 
the  oxide  in  diluted  sulphuric  acid  in  the  same  manner  as  directed  for  zinc  sulphate,  but 
requires  that  if  10  Cc.  of  diluted  sulphuric  acid  be  added  to  0.5  Gm.  of  zinc  oxide,  no 
effervescence  should  occur  (absence  of  carbonate),  and  a perfectly  clear  solution  should 
result  (absence  of  lead,  silicate,  etc).  Zinc-white  should  respond  to  the  same  tests,  but 
a minute  proportion  of  lead  is  permitted  by  the  P.  G.  by  the  following  test,  which  fails 
to  detect  about  J percent,  of  PbO  : Dissolve  0.2  Gm.  of  the  zinc  oxide  in  2 Gm.  of  acetic 
acid  ; after  cooling,  the  solution  should  not  be  affected  (become  yellow  and  turbid)  on  the 
addition  of  potassium  iodide. 

Action,  and  Uses. — In  experiments  upon  healthy  men  repeated  doses  of  4 grains 
or  more  of  zinc  oxide  occasioned  nausea,  eructation,  vomiting,  confusion  of  the  mind  and 
senses,  heat  in  the  epigastrium,  thirst,  fever,  a jerking  pulse,  muscular  spasm,  etc. 
Sometimes,  when  prescribed  in  very  large  and  continued  doses,  it  has  produced  maras- 
mus, oedema  of  the  feet,  diarrhoea,  etc.  That  these  effects  were  really  due  to  the  poisonous 
action  of  zinc  is  proved  by  the  manner  in  which  smelters  of  the  metal  are  affected — viz.  with 
cough,  dyspnoea,  and  even  haemoptysis  or  dyspeptic  symptoms,  vomiting  and  diarrhoea, 
loss  of  flesh,  neuralgia,  muscular  spasm,  and  debility.  Besides  these  symptoms  are 
observed  a gradual  anaesthesia  of  the  skin,  diminished  reflex  excitability,  muscular 
tremors,  especially  of  the  legs  ; in  a word,  the  signs  of  disorder  of  the  spinal  marrow 
(Schlochow,  Monthly  Abstract , Mar.  1880,  p.  158). 

Zinc  oxide  has  been  used  in  medicine  chiefly  for  the  cure  of  nervous  diseases,  and 
long  before  the  experiments  above  referred  to  denoted  its  special  mode  of  action;  for  it 
was  introduced  by  Paracelsus,  and  proposed  as  a remedy  for  epilepsy  by  Gaubius,  who 
learned  its  virtues  from  a charlatan.  Many  physicians  have  claimed  for  it  a curative 
virtue  in  epilepsy , and  among  them  some  whose  names  have  the  weight  of  authority  ; 
nevertheless,  a rigid  scrutiny  of  facts  has  proved  that  it  never  cures,  and  seldom  even 
palliates,  the  disease.  In  six  out  of  twenty  cases  under  the  care  of  Bussell  a decided 
impression  was  made  on  the  course  of  the  disease  by  the  zinc  given  to  the  extent  of 
18  grains  three  times  a day  ( Practitioner , xxx.  83).  The  utility  of  zinc  oxide  is  still 
less  in  chorea , a disease  which  as  naturally  tends  to  cure  as  epilepsy  is  rebellious  to  all 
treatment  that  is  not  merely  palliative.  The  utility  of  the  medicine  in  these  affections 
is  claimed  by  some  physicians  who  have  used  it  along  with  the  bromides ! Such  a con- 
fusion of  ideas  is  a fruitful  source  of  error  in  therapeutics.  Zinc  oxide  has  also  been 
used  with  alleged  benefit  in  hysteria  and  spasmodic  asthma.  In  the  nervous  state  conse- 
quent upon  delirium  tremens , and  in  chronic  alcoholism  attended  with  want  of  sleep, 
trembling,  vertigo,  tinnitus  aurium,  muscae  volitantes,  and  occasional  hallucinations,  it 
sometimes  is  very  beneficial.  In  such  cases  it  may  be  given  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.12 
(2  grains)  three  times  a day,  and  gradually  increased.  There  is  little  doubt  that  this 
medicine  is  one  of  the  best  for  colliquative  sweats , although  it  sometimes  fails,  and  is  not 
superior  to  zinc  sulphate.  It  should  be  prescribed  in  Gm.  0.06  (gr.  j)  doses  every  hour 
for  three  or  four  hours  in  the  evening.  Murrell  rcommends  that  it  be  given  “at  bedtime 
in  from  5-  to  10-grain  doses,  made  up  into  pill  with  extract  of  henbane  or  conium  ” 
(• Practitioner , xxiii.  91).  Such  doses  appear  to  us  fitted,  if  continued,  to  produce  vomit- 
ing and  even  poisonous  effects.  In  diarrhoea  and  dysentery  it  was  recommended  by 
•J.  Waring-Curran  (1868)  as  being  their  best  and  most  speedy  cure.  Some  time  later 
it  was  advised  by  Gubler  in  diarrhoea,  and  in  imitation  of  him  by  Bonamy  (1876),  who 
employed  it  successfully  when  other  remedies  had  failed  in  an  epidemic  of  dysenteric 


1728 


ZINCI  FHOSPHIDUM. 


diarrhoea.  He  mixed  dm.  3.30  (gr.  1)  of  zinc  oxide  with  Gm.  3.50  and  Gin.  0.66  (10 
grains)  of  sodium  bicarbonate,  and  divided  the  mixture  into  three  or  four  parts,  which  were 
administered  during  the  day  at  intervals  of  three  hours.  The  effect  of  the  medicine  is 
said  to  have  been  prompt  and  decisive  even  in  the  most  chronic  cases.  This  conclusion 
was  subsequently  confirmed  in  Scotland  by  Brakenridge  and  by  Benton  (1877),  and  by 
Jacquier  in  France  (1878).  In  infantile  diarrhoea  the  medicine  was  given  to  a child  of 
six  months  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.12  (2  grains)  every  two  hours.  It  was  used  with 
advantage  by  James  L.  Tyson,  although  sugar  was  mixed  with  it,  which  Benton  found 
to  impair  its  efficiency.  Associated  with  belladonna,  it  is  more  efficient  than  is  either 
medicine  alone.  Zinc  oxide  with  valerian  in  large  and  increasing  doses  is  said  to  have 
cured  diabetes  insipidus  (. Amer . Jour.  Med.  Sci .,  Jan.  1882,  p.  276).  In  fine  powder  it 
forms  an  admirable  application  for  promoting  the  healing  of  intertrigo , superficial  burns 
and  scalds , fissures  of  the  nipples  or  anus,  balano-posthitis , chancroids , flabby  ulcers , leucor- 
rhoea , and  moist  eruptions  of  the  skin.  For  some  of  these  purposes  it  may  be  mixed 
with  powdered  starch,  acacia,  or  lycopodium.  The  official  ointment  is  used  for  similar 
purposes.  The  sore  or  surface  should  be  washed  with  a carbolic-acid  solution  before  the 
powder  or  paste  of  zinc  is  applied.  A paste  made  with  linseed  oil  has  been  used  in 
erysipelas  instead  of  the  more  usual  white-lead  paint.  The  following  preparation  has 
also  been  recommended:  Glycerin  16  parts,  starch  8 parts,  zinc  oxide  4 parts.  Warm 
the  glycerin  and  starch  in  a porcelain  capsule  until  they  form  a jelly,  and  then  stir  in  the 
zinc  oxide. 

Zinc  oxide  may  be  administered  in  powder  or  in  pill,  and  in  doses  of  Gm.  0.06-0.30 
(gr.  j— v).  It  is  best  given  after  meals. 

Zinc  oleate  made  into  an  ointment  with  1 part  of  vaseline  or  olive  oil,  or  2 parts 
of  lard  or  simple  ointment — vaseline  being  preferable,  as  not  liable  to  change — has  been 
used  with  excellent  results  in  the  treatment  of  eczema , especially  during  the  stage  of 
active  secretion  (Crocker,  1879).  Haslam  has  recommended  a mixture  of  this  oleate 
with  iodoform  as  an  application  to  uterine  ulcers , etc. 

Commercial  zinc  oxide  may  be  used  in  powder  as  an  external  application  in  the  various 
local  affections  mentioned  above,  to  diminish  secretion  and  protect  parts  from  the  action 
of  the  air. 


ZINCI  PHOSPHIDUM,  U.  8.— Zinc  Phosphide. 

Phosphoretum  zincicum , F.  Cod. — Phosphuret  of  zinc , E. ; Phosphure  de  zinc , Fr. ; 
Phosphor zink,  G. ; Fosfuro  de  zinc , Sp. 

Formula  Zn3P2.  Molecular  weight  257.22. 

Preparation. — If  zinc  is  fused  in  a crucible,  and  phosphorus  is  added  in  small 
pieces  at  a time,  the  crucible  being  kept  covered  as  much  as  possible,  a union  of  the  two 
elements  takes  place,  but  it  is  difficult  to  obtain  the  compound  of  uniform  composition. 
According  to  Schrotter  (1849),  finely-divided  zinc  is  heated  to  dull  redness  while  the 
vapor  of  phosphorus  is  being  passed  over  it.  Vigier’s  modification  of  this  process  con- 
sists in  heating  the  zinc  in  a current  of  hydrogen  ; after  all  atmospheric  air  has  been 
expelled  vapors  of  phosphorus  are  passed  over  the  zinc.  On  account  of  the  great  danger 
connected  with  this  process,  owing  to  the  liability  to  violent  explosions,  Proust  (1869) 
proposed  the  following  process  : Nitrogen  gas  is  evolved  by  heating  ammonium  nitrite, 
and  the  gas  is  passed  through  a bottle  in  which  hydrogen  phosphide  is  prepared  by 
introducing  calcium  phosphide  through  a wide  tube  into  diluted  hydrochloric  acid  con- 
tained in  the  bottle.  The  mixed  gases  are  passed  through  a wash-bottle  into  a porcelain 
tube  in  which  zinc  is  heated  to  redness,  when  the  metal  will  combine  with  the  phosphorus 
and  the  liberated  hydrogen  will  escape  together  with  the  nitrogen.  If  the  apparatus  is 
filled  with  nitrogen  gas  before  the  hydrogen  phosphide  is  generated,  there  is  no  danger 
of  an  explosion. 

Properties. — Zinc  phosphide  is  stated  to  be  permanent  in  the  air,  but  the  slight 
phosphorus  odor  emitted  by  it  indicates  its  gradual  oxidation  ; it  should  therefore  be  pre- 
served in  well-stoppered  vials.  It  forms  a gray  crystalline  or  friable  mass,  having  upon 
the  fractured  surface  a bright  metallic  lustre.  Vigier  (1875)  recommends  it  to  be  pow- 
dered and  freed  by  sifting  from  metallic  zinc  which  may  be  present ; in  this  state  it 
resembles  iron  reduced  by  hydrogen,  lias  a blackish-gray  color  and  a slight  taste  of  phos- 
phorus, is  readily  soluble  in  dilute  sulphuric  or  hydrochloric  acid,  with  the  copious  evo- 
lution of  hydrogen  phosphide,  and  by  concentrated  nitric  acid  is  converted  into  zinc 
phosphate.  It  melts  at  a higher  temperature  than  zinc,  and  volatilizes  unchanged,  con- 


ZINCI  SULPHAS. 


1729 


densing  in  needles  if  the  air  be  excluded ; but  when  heated  in  contact  with  air  it  is  oxi- 
dized to  zinc  phosphate. 

Composition. — Pure  zinc  phosphide  consists  of  24.12  per  cent,  of  phosphorus  and 
75.88  per  cent,  of  zinc. 

Tests. — “1.171  Gm.  of  zinc  phosphide  in  contact  with  official  hydrochloric  acid 
should  evolve  200  Cc.  of  hydrogen  phosphide,  which  should  be  completely  absorbed  by 
a concentrated  solution  of  copper  sulphate.'' — F.  Cod.  This  test  proves  the  absence  of 
metallic  zinc,  which  would  evolve  hydrogen  ; hydrogen  phosphide  produces  in  the  copper 
solution  a black  precipitate  of  copper  phosphide.  The  U.  S.  P.  directs  testing  only  for 
foreign  metals  after  dissolving  the  compound  in  diluted  hydrochloric  acid,  and  demands 
the  absence  of  insoluble  impurities  by  directing  that  0.5  Gm.  of  zinc  phosphide  shall 
form  a clear  solution  with  15  Cc.  of  diluted  hydrochloric  acid,  heat  being  applied  to 
expel  all  of  the  hydrogen  phosphide. 

Action  and  Uses. — Zinc  phosphide  has  been  used  principally  in  nervous  disorders 
attributed  to  defective  nutrition  of  the  brain  and  spinal  marrow.  Among  these  locomotor 
ataxia  and  general  paralysis  are  especially  to  be  mentioned.  It  is  alleged  that  in  certain 
cases  of  the  former  affection  co-ordination  of  the  movements  has  been  restored  and  the 
evidences  of  sexual  power  revived  ; but  the  paucity  of  reports  of  its  success  in  a disease 
which  is  ordinarily  rebellious  to  all  medicinal  treatment  would  argue  badly  in  its  favor, 
even  if  its  total  want  of  curative  power  in  other  cases  of  the  same  disease  were  not  well 
established.  An  almost  identical  statement  may  be  made  respecting  the  other  affection 
mentioned,  for  only  one  or  two  cases  of  paralysis,  ascribed  to  disseminated  sclerosis  of 
the  cord,  and  an  equal  number  of  cases  of  mercurial  tremor,  are  recorded  in  which  any 
advantage  appears  to  have  been  derived  from  the  medicine.  A very  similar  summary 
may  be  given  of  its  effects  in  anaphrodisia.  Several  persons  have  published  accounts  of 
its  curative  virtues  in  neuralgia , spinal  irritation , hysteria , and  cerebral  disorders , with  an 
excessive  elimination  of  phosphates  with  the  urine,  in  chlorosis,  ansemia,  amenorrhoea , dys- 
menorrhoea,  and  metrorrhagia.  But  these  reports,  dating  as  far  back  as  1868,  have  not  been 
sufficiently  confirmed.  Mercier  (1878),  indeed,  found  the  medicine  useful  in  neuralgia, 
capable  of  retarding  the  progress  of  locomotor  ataxia,  almost  certain  in  relieving  anaphro- 
disia, and  efficient  in  dysmenorrhoea  and  amenorrhoea.  But  his  results  do  not  accord  with 
general  experience.  It  was  claimed  (1874)  to  be  an  efficient  remedy  for  the  neuralgic 
pains  of  herpes  zoster,  but  the  claim  has  not  been  confirmed. 

Zinc  phosphide  may  be  given  in  the  dose  of  Gm.  0.004-0.008  (gr.  T5¥  to  ^),  which 
is  estimated  to  equal  to  gr.  0f  phosphorus,  but  some  of  those  who  have  most 
recommended  it  direct  doses  of  Gm.  0.02  (gr.  J)  every  two  hours.  It  may  be  prescribed 
in  pills  with  liquorice  powder  and  syrup  or  in  powder  with  starch.  It  is  best  given 
when  the  stomach  does  not  contain  food,  for  it  is  then  less  apt  to  disengage  hydrogen 
phosphide. 

Dr.  R.  W.  Gardner  objected  to  zinc  phosphide  that,  as  no  oxygen  enters  into  its 
composition,  it  must  produce  in  the  stomach  the  same  irritant  effects  as  uncombined 
phosphorus.  He  therefore  proposed  in  its  stead  zinc  hypophosphite , as  not  irritant  and  as 
admitting  the  use  of  such  doses  as  fully  to  meet  all  indications  for  either  phosphorus  or 
zinc.  The  salt  is  perfectly  soluble,  and  therefore  readily  absorbable.  Its  administration 
is  recommended  in  a syrup  containing  8 grains  of  the  salt  to  a fluidounce,  of  which  a tea- 
spoonful  is  suggested  as  an  average  dose. 

ZINCI  SULPHAS,  U.  8.,  Br.— Zinc  Sulphate. 

Zincum  sulfuricum , P.  G.  ; Sulfas  zincicus , F.  Cod.  ; Vitriolum  album. — White  vitriol, 
E.  : Sulfate  de  zinc,  Vitriol  blanc,  Couperose  blanche,  Fr. ; Zinksulfat , Schwefelsaures  Zink- 
oxyd,  Weisser  Vitriol,  Galitzenstcin , G. ; Sulfato  de  zinc,  Sp. 

Formula  ZnS04.7H20.  Molecular  weight  286.64. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Granulated  Zinc  16  ounces;  Sulphuric  Acid  12  fluidounces; 
Distilled  Water  4 pints  ; Solution  of  Chlorine  a sufficiency  ; Zinc  Carbonate  \ ounce  or 
a sufficiency.  Pour  the  sulphuric  acid,  previously  mixed  with  the  water,  on  the  zinc 
contained  in  a porcelain  basin,  and  when  effervescence  has  nearly  ceased  aid  the  action 
by  a gentle  heat.  Filter  the  fluid  into  a gallon  bottle,  and  add  gradually,  with  constant 
agitation,  a solution  of  chlorine,  until  the  fluid  acquires  a permanent  odor  of  chlorine. 
Add  now,  with  continued  agitation,  the  zinc  carbonate  until  a brown  precipitate  appears; 
let  it  settle,  filter  the  solution,  evaporate  till  a pellicle  forms  on  the  surface,  and  set  aside 
109 


1730 


ZINCl  SULPHAS. 


Fig.  316. 


Crystals  of  Zinc  Sulphate. 


to  crystallize.  Dry  the  crystals  by  exposure  to  the  air  on  filtering-paper  placed  on  porous 

tiles.  More  crystals  may  be  obtained  by  again  evaporat- 
ing the  mother-liquor. — Br. 

Zinc  dissolves  in  dilute  sulphuric  acid  with  the  evolu- 
tion of  hydrogen,  forming  zinc  sulphate:  Zn2  + 2H,SO 
yields  2ZnS04  + 2H2.  Arsenic,  copper,  and  lead,  which 
are  sometimes  present  in  commercial  zinc,  are  removed 
by  the  continued  digestion  with  an  excess  of  the  metal, 
as  ordered  in  the  above  process : but  iron  will  dissolve' 
together  with  the  zinc,  to  ferrous  sulphate.  This  is  con- 
verted into  ferric  salt  by  chlorine-water,  and  ferric  hy- 
droxide is  now  precipitated  on  agitating  the  liquid  with 
precipitated  zinc  oxide  or  carbonate.  The  filtered  liquid 
is  free  from  the  metals  named,  and  on  being  sufficiently 
concentrated  will  yield  crystals  of  pure  zinc  sulphate, 

The  same  salt  is  economically  prepared  on  the  large  scale  from  zinc-white,  or  by  roast- 
ing the  native  zinc  sulphide,  ZnS,  called  blende , whereby  this  compound  is  oxidized  Vo 
sulphate this  is  extracted  with  hot  water,  and  the  clear  solution,  evaporated,  yields 
crude  white  vitriol , which  should  be  purified  by  redissolving  it  in  water,  boiling  with  zinc 
treating  with  chlorine  and  zinc  carbonate,  filtering,  and  evaporating  to  crystallization  : 
magnesium  and  alkali  sulphates  are  not  removed  by  this  treatment. 

Properties. — Zinc  sulphate  crystallizes  readily  in  large  transparent  rhombic  prisms, 
which  are  isomorphous  with  those  of  magnesium  sulphate.  As  seen  in  commerce,  it  is 
in  small  prisms  or  prismatic  needles,  obtained  by  disturbed  crystallization  from  concen- 
trated solutions.  On  exposure  the  crystals  become  slowly  opaque  from  the  loss  of  water 
of  crystallization.  When  rapidly  heated  the  salt  melts.  At  a higher  temperature  it  is 
partly  decomposed,  losing  both  water  and  sulphuric  acid.  When  very  gradually  heated 
to  50°  C.  (122°  F.)  it  loses  5 molecules  of  its  water  (31.3  per  cent.)  without  "melting. 
At  100°  C.  (212°  F.)  a sixth  molecule  is  lost,  while  the  last  may  be  removed  by  a cur- 
rent of  dry  air  at  110°  C.  (230°  F.).  Zinc  sulphate  is  inodorous  and  has  a strongly  styptic 
and  nauseous  metallic  taste  and  an  acid  reaction.  According  to  Poggiale,  1 part  of  the 
crystallized  salt  dissolves 

at  10°  20°  30°  50°  100°  C., 

in  .724  .620  .585  .380  .153  parts  of  water. 


The  pharmacopoeias  give  the  solubility  for  1 part  of  the  salt  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.)  in  0 74 
part  (F.  Cod .),  0.6  part  (U.  S.,  P.  G.),  and  at  100°  C.  in  0.2  part  (US.),  0.15  part  (F. 
Cod.)  of  water;  also  in  0.86  part  of  glycerin  (F.  Cod.),  3 parts  (U.  S.)  . Supersaturated  I 
solutions  are  easily  obtained,  particularly  in  contact  with  air  which  has  been  previously  > 
filtered  through  cotton.  100  parts  of  40  per  cent,  alcohol  dissolve,  according  to  Sehiff,  jj 
only  3.48  paits  of  the  salt,  and  in  strong  .alcohol  it  is  insoluble.  The  aqueous  solution  ' 
of  zinc  sulphate  yields  white  precipitates  with  barium  chloride,  with  ammonium  sulphide, 
and  with  potassium  ferrocyanide. 

Tests.  Commercial  or  crude  zinc  sulphate  is  not  sufficiently  pure  for  medicinal  pur- 
poses ; it  contains  iron,  occasionally  also  copper,  aluminum,  and  calcium  sulphate,  and 
sometimes  cadmium.  These  salts  and  the  alkali  sulphates  cannot  be  removed  by  recrvs- 
tallization.  Lead  cannot  be  present  in  this  salt  if  completely  soluble  in  water,  owing  to 
the  insolubility  of  its  sulphate;  yet  the  Pharmacopoeia  mentions  it  among  the  possible 
impurities.  If  1 G-m.  of  zinc  sulphate  be  shaken  for  some  time  with  10  Cc.  of  alcohol, 
the  filtrate  should  not  redden  moistened  blue  litmus-paper,  showing  the  absence  of  free 
acid.  If  a large  proportion  of  chloride  be  present,  the  salt  will  be  hygroscopic ; a 5 per  I 
cent,  solution  of  the  salt,  acidulated  with  nitric  acid,  should  not  be  rendered  turbid  by  silver 
nitrate.  Other  possible  impurities  are  detected  as  follows  : The  aqueous  solution,  on  being 
acidulated  with  hydrochloric  acid  and  treated  with  hydrogen  sulphide,  should  yield  neither 
a yellow,  brown,  nor  black  coloration  or  precipitate  (cadmium,  arsenic,  copper,  and  similar 
metals).  In  case  iron  be  present  the  solution  will  afiford  with  a little  potassium  ferrocya- 
nide a more  or  less  deep-blue  precipitate.  An  excess  of  ammonia  added  to  the  aqueous 
solution  should  yield  a clear  and  colorless  liquid ; in  the  presence  of  copper  the  color  of 
the  solution  would  be  blue,  and  iron  and  aluminum  would  remain  undissolved.  The  solu- 
tion of  the  salt,  after  having  been  precipitated  by  ammonium  sulphide,  or  the  ammouiacal 
solution  after  treatment  with  hydrogen  sulphide,  yields  a filtrate  which  on  evaporation  to  I 
dryness  and  ignition  should  leave  no  fixed  residue  (potassium,  sodium,  magnesium,  and 


ZINCI  SULPHAS. 


1731 


calcium).  Ammonium  sulphate  is  detected  by  the  ammoniacal  odor  given  off  on  the  addi- 
tion of  an  excess  of  potassa  or  soda.  Nitrate  is  detected  by  adding  to  the  solution  sul- 
phuric acid,  test  zinc,  gelatinized  starch,  and  a little  potassium  iodide,  when  the  nascent 
hydrogen  will  cause  the  reduction  of  nitric  to  nitrous  acid,  and  the  latter  will  liberate  the 
iodine,  causing  a blue  color  with  the  starch. 

Composition. — Zinc  sulphate  has  the  formula  given  above,  and  contains  43.9  per 
cent,  of  water,  28.22  per  cent,  of  zinc  oxide,  and  27.88  per  cent,  of  S03.  The  sul- 
phate may  also  be  obtained  with  less  water  by  crystallizing  from  its  solution  above  30°  C. 
(86°  F.). 

Action  and  Uses. — Externally  and  locally,  zinc  sulphate  acts  as  a stimulant 
astringent ; it  is  commonly  applied  to  quicken  vital  action  as  well  as  to  check  secretion.  It 
enters  into  a paste  which  is  very  useful  in  cancrum  oris , and  contains,  besides,  extract  of 
cinchona,  catechu,  and  honey  of  roses.  A similar  preparation  is  to  be  recommended  for 
aplitli&.  In  conjunctivitis  and  in  gonorrhoea , in  the  forming  stage,  or  again  on  the  decline, 
a solution  may  be  employed  containing  about  Gm.  0.06  in  Gm.  32  (gr.  j-,%j).  In  ophthal- 
mia neonatorum  the  following  has  been  used  as  a collyrium  : R.  Zinc  sulphate  gr.  xx  ; 
water  fgx  ; solution  of  lead  subacetate  fgss ; tincture  of  camphor  f^j-ij.— A small  por- 
tion of  this  solution  may  be  injected  between  the  eyelids  several  times  a day.  A solu- 
tion applied  with  a brush  or  sponge  to  the  throat  or  larynx  should  not  exceed  the  strength 
of  Gm.  0.60  to  Gm.  32  (10  grains  to  the  ounce)  ; an  atomized  solution  for  inhalation  may 
contain  Gm.  0.06  to  Gm.  32  (gr.  j-ij  to  fgj).  In  the  first-named  form  it  is  useful  in 
commencing  inflammation  of  the  fauces.  To  arrest  haemorrhage  it  is  often  used  in 
solution  and  injected  into  the  bladder,  uterus,  rectum,  or  nostrils,  though  for  all  except  the 
first-mentioned  case  it  is  more  efficient  when  applied  upon  a sponge.  In  powder  this 
salt  has  been  employed  by  insufflation  in  the  treatment  of  polypi  of  the  nostrils,  and 
in  solution  applied  to  the  seat  of  these  growths  after  evulsion  and  to  prevent  their 
reproduction.  Sir  J.  Y.  Simpson  recommended  a paste  made  with  lard  and  the  sul- 
phate Gm.  8 to  Gm.  32  (gij  in  ^j),  or  a glycerite  made  with  glycerin  and  the  same  amount 
of  the  sulphate  Gm.  2.60  to  Gm.  32  (gr.  xl  and  g),  for  the  treatment  of  ulcers  and  soft 
tumors  about  the  vagina,  anus,  etc.,  which  it  dries  and  shrivels ; and  if  the  part  be 
very  soft  and  of  feeble  vitality,  it  may  produce  a superficial  eschar.  The  same  prepa- 
rations have  been  applied  to  lupus  exedens , tumors  of  the  female  urethra , etc.,  and  even 
to  cancer  of  the  breast  {Med,  News , xl.  401).  They  will  not  act  upon  parts  covered  with 
cuticle  or  epithelium.  The  application  causes  severe  pain,  which  may  be  palliated  or 
prevented  by  chloral  hydrate  ; its  action  does  not  tend  to  spread,  and  the  eschar,  if  any, 
separates  more  rapidly  than  that  of  most  other  caustics.  Zinc  sulphate  may  be  used  in 
weak  solution  to  lessen  the  secretion  in  eczema  and  appease  the  itching  in  that  and  other 
cutaneous  affections. 

Internally,  zinc  sulphate  is  given  chiefly  as  an  emetic  to  empty  the  stomach  of  indi- 
gestible or  poisonous  ingesta,  especially  such  as  are  not  themselves  local  irritants,  and 
notably  narcotic  poisons,  such  as  opium,  strychnine,  mushrooms,  rhus  toxicodendron,  etc. 
As  it  is  a mechanical  and  not  a sedative  emetic,  it  is  greatly  to  be  preferred  before  tar- 
tarized  antimony  in  these  cases,  and  also  when  the  air-passages  are  obstructed  by  foreign 
bodies  or  by  false  membrane , as  in  croup  and  occasionally  in  diphtheria.  It  was  claimed 
in  1879  by  Fukala  that  he  cured  sixty -two  out  of  seventy-two  cases  of  pseudo-mem- 
branous croup  by  repeated  applications  of  a 21  per  cent,  solution  of  zinc  sulphate  to  the 
interior  of  the  larynx  by  means  of  a syringe  with  a long  curved  pipe  {Bull,  de  Therap., 
xcvii.  143).  Evidently  the  statement  is  inadmissible.  This  medicine  has  been  used 
alone  or  combined  in  dysentery  and  typhoid  fever , but  it  is  only  in  the  chronic  form  of 
the  first-named  disease,  and  in  greatly  prolonged  cases  of  the  latter  with  predominant 
intestinal  symptoms,  that  it  is  indicated.  In  atonic  dyspepsia , with  flatulent  distension  of 
the  digestive  canal,  it  is  certainly  of  use,  perhaps  by  its  stimulant  and  astringent  opera- 
tion. It  is  reported  to  be  efficacious  in  nervous  palpitation  of  the  heart,  but  probably  in 
dyspeptic  cases  only.  Possibly,  a similar  explanation  may  be  applied  to  its  alleged  suc- 
cess in  spasmodic  asthma , but  when  this  affection  is  associated  with  bronchorrboea  the 
efficiency  of  the  medicine  is  more  probable.  In  whooping  cough  it  has  enjoyed  a certain 
reputation  which  may  have  been  due  to  a similar  mode  of  action — i.  e.  to  its  influence  in 
eliminating  the  catarrhal  element.  Certainly,  when  associated  with  belladonna  its  useful- 
ness is  increased.  The  efficacy  claimed  for  it  in  chorea  is  not  sufficiently  demonstrated. 
Very  often  it  was  associated  with  valerian,  which  of  itself  is  at  least  as  potent  as  the  zinc. 
(Compare  Med.  News,  xli.  261.)  The  latter  is,  however,  as  much  to  be  depended  upon  as 
any  other  single  medicine. 


1732 


ZINCI  V A LERI  A NA  S. 


As  an  emetic  zinc  sulphate  may  be  prescribed  in  doses  of  Grm.  0.60—4  (gr.  x-lx) 
dissolved  in  tepid  water.  Internally,  Gm.  0.06-0.18  (gr.  j-iij)  may  be  given  several 
times  a day,  and  gradually  increased.  In  the  treatment  of  chorea  it  has  been  so  given 
until  more  than  20  grains  a day  were  taken,  and  without  injurious  effects.  It  is  best 
administered  in  pill  and  after  meals,  except  when  it  is  intended  to  act  upon  the  stomach 
itself. 

A solution  of  zinc  sulphide  has  been  prepared  by  dissolving  equal  parts  of  zinc  sul- 
phate and  potassium  sulphide  in  water.  Such  a solution,  containing  from  5 to  15  grains 
of  each  salt  in  an  ounce  of  water,  with  the  addition  of  a few  drops  of  alcohol,  is  recom- 
mended by  Duhring  in  the  superficial  inflammatory  form  of  lupus  erythematosus  and  in 
seborrhoea  of  the  face.  The  lotion  should  be  shaken  before  being  applied  by  means  of  a 
sponge  or  rag  mop,  and  its  sediment  should  be  allowed  to  adhere  to  the  surface.  Its 
immediate  effect  is  said  to  be  soothing  and  cooling  in  the  first-named  disease,  and  its  per- 
manent influence  more  favorable  than  that  of  the  numerous  applications  which  are  apt  to 
be  fruitlessly  made  in  this  affection  {Med.  Mews,  xliii.  507). 

ZINOI  VALERIANAS,  U.  j Br. — Zinc  Valerianate. 

Valeras  zincicus , F.  Cod. ; Zincum  valerianicum. — Valerianate  ( Valerate)  de  zinc,  Fr. ; 
Zi nkvalerianat , Baldriansaures  Zinkoxyd , Gr. ; Valerianato  de  zinc,  Sp. 

Formula  Zn(C5H902)2.2H20.  Molecular  weight  302.56. 

Preparation. — Take  of  Sodium  Valerianate  5 oz.  av. ; Zinc  Sulphate  51  oz.  av. ; 
Distilled  Water  a sufficient  quantity.  Dissolve  the  salts  separately,  each  in  2 pints 
(Imperial)  of  distilled  water ; raise  both  solutions  to  near  the  boiling-point,  mix  them, 
cool,  and  skim  off  the  crystals  which  are  produced.  Evaporate  the  mother-water  at  a 
heat  not  exceeding  200°  F.  to  4 fluidounces,  cool  again,  remove  the  crystals  which  have 
formed,  and  add  them  to  those  which  have  already  been  obtained.  Drain  the  crystals  on 
a paper  filter,  and  wash  them  with  a small  quantity  of  cold  distilled  water  till  the  wash- 
ings give  but  a very  feeble  precipitate  with  barium  chloride.  Let  them  now  be  again 
drained  and  dried  on  filtering-paper  at  ordinary  temperatures. — Br. 

The  above  process  was  originally  proposed  by  Trommsdorff.  On  mixing  hot  solutions 
of  sodium  valerianate  and  zinc  sulphate  the  salts  are  mutually  decomposed,  resulting  in 
the  formation  of  sodium  sulphate,  which  remains  dissolved,  and  zinc  valerianate,  which 
crystallizes  partly  on  cooling,  the  remainder  being  obtained  on  concentrating  the  liquid. 

The  salt  of  the  French  Codex  is  obtained  by  adding  freshly-prepared  moist  zinc  car- 
bonate to  valerianic  acid,  diluted  with  30  parts  of  water,  and  when  the  acid  is  nearly 
saturated  warming  the  mixture  slightly,  filtering,  and  carefully  evaporating  the  liquid. 

Properties. — Zinc  valerianate  crystallizes  in  soft  white  pearly  scales,  which  are 
not  deliquescent,  and  have  a slight  odor  of  valerianic  acid,  and  a sweet  styptic  and 
metallic  taste.  It  has  an  acid  reaction  on  litmus-paper,  melts  at  about  140°  C.  (284°  F.), 
at  a higher  heat  gives  off  white  inflammable  vapors,  and  finally  burns  with  a bluish  flame, 
leaving  zinc  oxide.  The  salt  is  stated  to  be  soluble  at  15°  C.  in  90  {P.  G.  1872),  100 
(U.  S.),  160  (Wittstein)  parts  of  water;  the  salt  used  in  France,  which  contains  12H20, 
dissolves  in  50  parts  of  cold  water  (P.  Cod.)  ; on  being  boiled  with  water  it  loses  water 
of  crystallization.  But,  according  to  Lieben  and  Rossi  (1871),  100  parts  of  water  dis- 
solve at  25°  C.  (77°  F.)  2.54  parts  of  anhydrous  zinc  valerianate.  On  heating  the  solu- 
tion moderately  it  becomes  turbid,  and  clear  again  on  cooling ; but  after  the  saturated 
solution  has  been  boiled  it  does  not  become  entirely  clear  after  cooling,  in  consequence  of 
the  production  of  a basic  salt,  which  is  less  freely  soluble  in  water.  The  salt  is  also  solu- 
ble in  40  ( U.  S.),  60  (Wittstein)  parts  of  cold  alcohol,  and  this  solution  is  likewise  ren- 
dered turbid  by  heat.  Hot  ether,  however,  dissolves  it  more  freely  than  cold  ether. 
When  kept  over  sulphuric  acid  the  salt  becomes  anhydrous. 

Tests. — Zinc  valerianate  should  be  completely  soluble  in  ammonia-water.  Its  aqueous 
solution  yields  a white  precipitate  with  hydrogen  sulphide,  and  when  an  excess  of  the 
reagent  has  been  used  the  filtrate  on  being  evaporated  should  leave  no  fixed  residue. 
Zinc  acetate,  being  freely  soluble  in  water,  if  present  as  an  adulteration  would  impart  a 
red  color  to  solution  of  ferric  chloride.  Zinc  butyrate  resembles  the  valerianate  closely ; 
it  is  detected,  according  to  the  British  Pharmacopoeia,  by  distilling  the  suspected  salt 
with  dilute  sulphuric  acid  and  adding  the  distillate  to  a solution  of  copper  acetate,  when, 
if  the  valerianate  be  pure,  it  does  not  immediately  affect  the  transparency  of  the  fluid, 
but  forms  after  a little  time  oily  drops,  which  gradually  pass  into  a bluish-white  crystal- 
line deposit.  This  is  the  test  suggested  by  Larocque  and  Iluraut,  who  first  directed 


ZINCUM. 


1733 


attention  (1846)  to  the  similar  physical  properties  of  the  two  salts.  The  U.  S.  P.  has 
adopted  Hager's  test,  using  cold  concentrated  solutions  of  zinc  valerianate  and  copper 
acetate. 

Action  and  Uses, — Zinc  valerianate  was  originally  supposed  to  unite  in  itself  the 
peculiar  virtues  of  both  of  its  two  elements.  This  illogical  and  unscientific  judgment 
did  not  prevent  it  from  being  largely  used  in  spite  of  its  high  price  and  excessively  offen- 
sive  smell.  It  is  very  doubtful  whether  valerianic  acid  possesses  any  medicinal  virtues ; 
those  belonging  to  valerian  seem  to  reside  in  its  oil.  For  a time  zinc  valerianate  was 
lauded  in  neuralgia , both  external  and  internal,  in  nervous  headache , nervous  vertigo, 
whooping  cough , infantile  convulsions,  and  a variety  of  nervous  and  hysterical  affections, 
including  chorea.  It  was  even  declared  to  be  a remedy  for  cholera ! The  only  real 
merit  it  possesses  consists  in  its  sometimes  alleviating  neuralgic  pains  and  headache  occur- 
ring in  very  excitable  or  hysterical  persons.  A case  is  recorded  of  its  having  cured 
diabetes  insipidus,  but  as  valerian  alone  is  recognized  as  one  of  the  best  remedies  for  that 
disease,  and  as  the  patient  was  also  taking  opium,  the  influence  of  the  zinc  salt  cannot  be 
regarded  as  proved.  A more  recent  case,  however,  has  given  some  color  to  this  alleged 
virtue  of  the  salt  ( Lancet , Oct.  1881,  p.  662).  The  dose  of  this  preparation  is  variously 
stated  at  from  half  a grain  to  several  grains.  Probably  Gin.  0.06  (gr.  j)  should  be  the 
average  dose.  It  may  best  be  given  in  pill  with  mucilage  or  conserve  of  roses. 

ZINCUM,  V.  S.,  Hr. — Zinc. 

Speltrum. — Zinc , Fr. ; Zink,  G. 

Symbol  Zn.  Atomicity  bivalent.  Atomic  weight  65.10. 

Origin. — The  metal  zinc  has  been  known  in  the  isolated  state  only  since  about  the 
beginning  of  the  eighteenth  century,  when  Stahl  showed  it  to  be  obtainable  from  cala- 
mine ; some  of  its  compounds,  however,  have  been  long  known.  Brass  was  used  in 
ancient  times,  but  no  other  metal,  besides  copper,  was  supposed  to  exist  therein.  The 
oxide  was  likewise  known  at  an  early  date,  and,  like  the  ore  from  which  it  was  obtained, 
was  called  cadmia.  White  vitriol  appears  to  have  been  prepared  by  Valentinus  in  the 
fifteenth  century,  who  was  also  acquainted  with  blende,  in  which  Brandt  (1735)  showed 
the  presence  of  zinc,  and  Glauber  (1648)  prepared  “oleum  lapidis  calaminaris  ” and 
studied  some  of  the  properties  of  zinc  chloride. 

The  metal  is  rather  abundant,  and  exists  most  generally  in  combination  either  as  sili- 
cate or  carbonate,  known  as  calamine,  or  as  sulphide,  known  as  blende.  Zinc  ores  have 
been  found  in  Pennsylvania  and  Missouri,  in  Great  Britain,  Belgium,  and  different  parts 
of  Germany,  particularly  in  Silesia.  They  are  frequently  associated  with  lead  and  other 
metals. 

Calamina  pr^eparata,  Br.  (Lapis  calaminaris  praeparata),  is  native  zinc  carbonate, 
calcined  in  a covered  earthen  crucible  at  a moderate  temperature,  powdered,  and  freed 
from  gritty  particles  by  elutriation.  It  is  a pale  pinkish-brown  powder,  almost  entirely 
soluble  with  effervescence  in  acids.  The  mineral  varies  in  color  from  whitish  to  reddish 
or  greenish,  and  is  sometimes  crystalline,  or  more  frequently  amorphous. 

Preparation. — On  smelting  lead  and  other  ores  containing  zinc  an  impure  zinc 
oxide  is  condensed  in  the  cooler  portions  of  the  furnace.  By  the  long-continued  roasting 
of  blende  or  calamine,  oxide  is  likewise  obtained.  This  is  mixed  with  powdered  charcoal, 
and  the  mixture  heated  nearly  to  whiteness  in  shallow  iron  retorts,  when  the  zinc  distils, 
and  is  collected  in  suitable  condensers.  The  impure  metal  is  purified  by  a descending 
distillation  in  crucibles  furnished  with  an  open  tube  reaching  to  the  upper  half  of  the 
crucible  and  passing  through  its  bottom. 

Properties  and  Tests. — Zinc  is  a bluish-white  metal,  having  a lamellar  or  a gran- 
ular structure.  Its  density  varies  between  6.9  and  7.2,  rolled  zinc  being  the  heaviest. 
Ordinarily,  it  is  rather  brittle,  but  between  120°  and  150°  C.  (248°  and  302°  F.)  it  is 
ductile,  and  may  be  rolled  into  sheets  and  converted  into  wire.  Heated  to  205°  C.  (401° 
F.),  it  becomes  so  brittle  that  it  may  be  reduced  to  powder.  It  melts  at  about  415°  C. 
(779°  F.),  and  at  940°  C.  (1724°  F.)  it  boils  and  volatilizes,  and  in  the  presence  of  air 
burns  with  a bluish-green  flame  to  oxide.  Melted  zinc  on  congealing  expands  in  volume 
0.2  per  cent.  (Nies  and  Winkelmann  1882),  and  afterward  contracts  considerably.  On 
bending,  zinc  emits  a slight  cracking  noise,  weaker  than  that  of  tin.  Tt  has  a bright 
metallic  lustre,  but  on  exposure  becomes  superficially  tarnished.  It  is  not  much  acted 
on  by  cold  concentrated  sulphuric  acid,  but  on  heating  unites  with  it,  evolving  sulphur 
dioxide.  Diluted  sulphuric  and  hydrochloric  acids  dissolve  it  readily,  with  the  evolution 


1734 


Z IN  CUM. 


of  hydrogen.  While  the  Pharmacopoeia  permits  the  presence  of  traces  of  iron,  lead,  and 
copper,  it  demands  the  absence  of  arsenic,  antimony,  and  phosphorus,  as  shown  by  the 
following  tests : When  zinc  is  dissolved  in  diluted  hydrochloric  acid,  the  hydrogen  gas 
which  is  evolved  should  not  have  any  disagreeable  odor,  nor  should  it  color  a strip  of 
paper  moistened  with  lead  acetate  test-solution  (absence  of  sulphur),  or  with  silver 
nitrate  test-solution  (absence  of  arsenic,  antimony,  phosphorus).  If  ammonia-water  be 
added  to  the  solution,  a white  precipitate  should  form,  which  should  completely  redis- 
solve in  an  excess  of  the  reagent,  yielding  a clear,  colorless  solution  (absence  of  more 
than  traces  of  iron,  lead,  copper,  etc.). 

Zinc  is  extensively  used  in  the  arts  for  roofing  and  other  purposes ; melted  together 
with  copper  it  forms  brass.  It  is  useful  in  protecting  surfaces  of  iron  and  copper  from 
oxidation ; iron  having  its  surface  coated  with  zinc  is  known  as  galvanized  iron. 

The  salts  of  zinc  are  usually  colorless,  soluble  in  water,  have  an  acid  reaction,  and  a 
disagreeable  metallic  taste,  and  by  prolonged  heating  are  mostly  converted  into  oxide. 
Their  aqueous  solutions,  acidulated  with  hydrochloric  acid,  are  not  precipitated  by  hydro- 
gen sulphide,  but  they  yield  with  ammonia  and  potassa  white  precipitates  soluble  in  an 
excess  of  the  alkali.  White  precipitates  are  also  obtained  with  ammonium  sulphide,  alkali 
carbonates,  and  potassium  ferrocyanide ; potassium  ferricyanide  yields  an  orange-red  pre- 
cipitate. 

Pharmaceutical  Uses. — Zincum  granulatum,  Br.  Granulated  zinc  is  obtained 
by  melting  commercial  zinc  in  an  earthen  crucible  and  pouring  the  liquid  metal  in  a thin 
stream  into  cold  water.  The  congealed  zinc  is  drained  and  dried. 

Unofficial  Zinc  Salts. — Zinci  cyanidum,  Cyanuretum  zincicum,  F.  Cod.,  Zinc 
cyanide,  Zn(CN)2.  It  is  obtained  by  precipitating  a solution  of  zinc  acetate  with  hydro- 
cyanic acid,  whereby  acetic  acid  is  liberated,  which  retains  a portion  of  the  zinc  cyanide 
in  solution ; the  liquid  should  therefore  be  kept  nearly  neutral  by  the  occasional  cau- 
tious addition  of  an  alkali.  Zinc  cyanide  is  a white,  inodorous,  and  tasteless  powder, 
which  is  insoluble  in  water  and  alcohol,  but  dissolves  in  potassa,  ammonia,  and  in  dilute 
acids.  When  long  kept  it  undergoes  decomposition  and  acquires  a sweetish  and  metallic  taste. 

Zinci  et  potassii  cyanidum,  K2ZnCy4.  On  dissolving  zinc  cyanide  in  a solution  of 
pure  potassium  cyanide  a slightly  alkaline  liquid  is  obtained,  which  on  evaporation  yields 
colorless  or  white  octahedrons  of  a sweet  and  metallic  taste.  Small  quantities  of  acids 
precipitate  from  its  solution  zinc  cyanide. 

Zinci  eerrocyanidum,  Zincum  ferrocyanatum,  Zinc  ferrocyanide.  It  is  prepared  by 
precipitating  a soluble  zinc  salt  with  potassium  ferrocyanide,  and  forms  a white  tasteless 
powder,  which  is  insoluble  in  water,  alcohol,  and  dilute  acids,  and  evolves  hydrocyanic 
acid  on  being  heated  with  dilute  sulphuric  acid. 

Zinci  lactas,  Lactas  zincicus,  F.  Cod.,  Zincum  lacticum,  Zinc  lactate,  Zn(C3H503)2- 
3H20.  It  is  prepared  as  described  on  page  70,  or  by  dissolving  zinc  carbonate  in  dilute 
lactic  acid  with  the  aid  of  heat.  It  crystallizes  in  short  quadrangular  crystals  which  have 
an  acid  reaction  and  an  acidulous  metallic  taste.  The  salt  is  not  fusible,  requires  about 
58  parts  of  cold  and  6 parts  of  boiling  water  for  solution,  and  is  nearly  insoluble  in  alco- 
hol. It  yields  27.1  per  cent,  of  oxide  of  zinc. 

Zinci  salicylas,  Zinc  salicylate  Zn(C7H503)2.3H20.  Vigier  (1878)  prepares  this  salt 
by  heating  salicylic  acid  with  distilled  water,  adding  gradually  zinc  oxide  suspended  in  a 
little  water,  and,  when  the  oxide  is  no  longer  dissolved,  filtering  the  solution.  The  salt  crys- 
tallizes in  long  satiny  needles,  has  a sweet  somewhat  styptic  and  bitter  taste,  dissolves  in 
about  20  parts  of  cold  water,  and  is  freely  soluble  in  hot  water,  alcohol,  ether,  and  rne- 
thylic  alcohol.  The  crystals  represent  20.6,  and  the  anhydrous  salt  23.9,  per  cent.  ZnO. 

Zinci  sulphocarbolas,  Br.,  Zincum  sulfocarbolicum  (s.  sulphophenylicum),  Zinc 
sulphocarbolate,  Zn(S03C6H40H)2.8H20.  It  is  prepared,  like  the  sodium  salt  (see  page 
1486),  by  decomposing  a solution  of  barium  sulphocarbolate  with  zinc  sulphate ; the  pre- 
cipitate of  barium  sulphate  is  filtered  off,  and  the  clear  liquid  evaporated  to  crystallization. 
Zinc  sulphocarbolate  crystallizes  in  reddish,  or  if  the  solution  lias  been  acidulated  with 
sulphuric  acid  in  colorless,  inodorous  prisms  or  tablets,  which  are  soluble  in  twice  their 
weight  of  water  or  alcohol,  have  an  acid  reaction,  and  when  heated  are  decomposed  with- 
out melting.  The  aqueous  solution  acquires  a violet  color  with  ferric  chloride,  should 
yield  with  barium  nitrate  merely  a slight  turbidity  (sulphate),  should  not  be  affected  by 
ammonium  oxalate  or  sulphuric  acid  (barium,  etc.),  and  after  precipitation  with  excess 
of  ammonium  sulphide  yields  a filtrate  which  on  evaporation  and  ignition  should  leave 
no  residue.  When  heated  to  redness  the  salt  yields  14.6  per  cent.  ZnO. 

Action  and  Uses. — Zinc  is  never  used  as  a medicine  in  the  metallic  state.  Sheet  zinc 


ZINGIBER. 


1735 


has  been  used  to  make  hollowed  and  curved  splints  for  fractured  limbs,  especially  for 
such  as  are  treated  by  suspension. 

Zinc  cyanide,  according  to  some  early  experimenters,  occasioned,  in  doses  of  half  a 
grain  repeated  at  intervals,  cephalic  congestion,  anxiety,  .somnolence,  nervous  tremors,  etc. 
Given  in  large  doses  to  animals,  its  effects  are  identical  with  those  of  hydrocyanic  acid 
and  its  alkaline  compounds.  It  has  been  used  in  epilepsy,  chorea , and  other  convulsive 
affections,  and  also  in  gastralgia  and  other  forms  of  neuralgia.  In  the  last-named  affec- 
tion, and  especially  in  neuralgia  of  the  fifth  pair  produced  by  cold,  its  good  effects  appear 
to  be  proven.  Lashkewich  praises  its  virtues  in  cardiac  neuroses  with  pain  in  the  heart, 
palpitation,  and  disordered  rhythm.  It  may  be  prescribed  in  such  cases  in  doses  of 
about  Gm.  0.016  (gr.  £)  suspended  in  mucilage,  or  preferably  in  pill,  to  ensure  its  more 
precise  administration.  It  should  be  given  at  intervals  of  an  hour  or  two,  since  its 
physiological  operation  is  transient.  This  salt  has  also  been  used  with  alleged  benefit 
in  acute  articular  rheumatism , but  the  evidence  in  its  favor  appears  to  be  inconclusive. 

Potassium  and  zinc  cyanide,  which  is  permanent,  and  also  perfectly  soluble  in  cold 
water,  has  been  proposed,  and  is  to  be  preferred  to  zinc  cyanide  on  account  of  its  solu- 
bility ; it  was  prescribed  in  the  doses  already  mentioned  in  sweetened  aromatic  water. 

Zinc  lactate  is  reputed  to  be  efficacious  in  the  same  affections  for  which  the  oxide  is 
used,  and  to  be  less  apt  than  the  latter  to  disagree  with  the  stomach.  Its  dose  is  stated 
to  be  Gm.  0.03-0.08  (gr.  £-1)  several  times  a day. 

Zinc  salicylate  is  believed  to  be  a valuable  astringent  and  antiseptic  agent.  It  has 
been  applied  to  cancerous  and  other  ulcers,  and  used  for  the  treatment  of  ophthalmia  and 
gonorrhoea,  in  a solution  containing  from  | to  1 per  cent,  of  the  salt. 

Zinc  sulphocarbolate  has  been  employed  externally  as  a substitute  for  carbolic  acid  in 
surgical  dressings,  for  the  prevention  of  septicaemia,  and  as  an  injection  in  gonorrhoea , leu- 
corrhoea,  etc.  It  is  less  liable  than  carbolic  acid  itself  to  act  as  an  irritant.  A Solution 
in  water  of  the  strength  of  from  1 to  5 per  cent,  is  used  as  a topical  application,  and  for 
injections  one  of  from  1 to  5 parts  in  1000. 

ZINGIBER,  77.  S.,  Br.— Ginger. 

Rhizoma  ( Radix ) zingiheris,  P.  A.,  P.  G. — Gingemhre  (< gris  et  blanc , Cod.),  Fr. ; 
lngwer,  G.  ; Zengibre , Sp. 

The  rhizome  of  Zingiber  officinale,  Roscoe,  s.  Amomum  Zingiber,  Linne.  Woodville, 
Med.  Bot.,  plate  11  ; Bentley  and  Trimen,  Med.  Plants,  270. 

Nat.  Ord. — Scitamineae  (Zingiberaceae). 

Origin. — The  ginger-plant  is  a perennial  herb  indigenous  to  tropical  Asia,  and  at  the 
present  time  cultivated  in  most  tropical  countries,  but  it  is  not  known  in  the  wild  state. 
It  has  numerous  stems,  about  1 M.  (40  inches)  high,  and  covered  with  elongated  leaf- 
sheaths,  of  which  the  upper  ones  have  a lancelinear  spreading  blade  20  to  30  Cm.  (8-12 
inches)  long.  The  flowering  stems  are  much  shorter,  have  a few  loose  leaf-sheaths,  and 
are  terminated  by  a short  thick  spike  of  bracted  yellow  and  variegated  flowers.  The 
rhizome  is  the  part  employed.  4,277,110  pounds  of  ginger  were  imported  into  the  United 
States  in  1886. 

Description. — Ginger  is  seen  in  commerce  in  two  forms — either  with  the  outer 
integuments  present  or  else  removed  by  scraping.  The  former  kind  is  called  coated,  the 
latter  kind  uncoated  or  scraped  ginger ; and  this  variety  is  recog- 
nized by  the  pharmacopoeias.  Commercial  ginger  consists  of  flat-  Fig.  317. 
tened  branches  of  the  horizontal  rhizome,  which  are  somewhat 
palmately  lobed,  are  known  in  commerce  as  races  or  hands,  and 
bear  at  the  somewhat  thickened  end  of  each  lobe  a scar  from  the 


The  uncoated  ginger  is  of  handsomer  appearance,  of  a pale-buff 
color,  striated,  and  nearly  smooth  externally,  or  somewhat  fibrous 
from  detached  fibro-vascular  bundles ; it  breaks  with  a mealy  and 
rather  fibrous  fracture,  which  is  of  a whitish  or  yellowish  color. 
Well-dried  coated  ginger  is  slightly  darker  internally,  but  some 
varieties  are  quite  dark-colored  and  break  with  a horny  fracture. 
Coated  ginger  is  often  designated  as  black  ginger,  though  this  name 


overground  stem.  The  coated  variety  has  simply  been  washed  and 
dried,  or  slightly  scraped  upon  the  flattened  sides ; it  is  externally 
of  a brown  or  yellowish-brown  color,  wrinkled,  somewhat  annulate 
from  the  leaf-bases,  and  has  a more  or  less  shrivelled  appearance. 


4 


1736 


ZINGIBER. 


is  sometimes  restricted  to  the  horny  kind,  which  appears  to  have  been  dried  by  artificial 
heat  or  after  having  been  scalded  in  boiling  water.  Uncoated  ginger  is  sometimes  called 
ivhite  ginger  ; and  this  name  is  also  used  for  certain  varieties  which  have  been  artificially 
bleached,  it  is  stated,  by  exposure  to  the  fumes  of  burning  sulphur,  whereby  they  acquire 


Fig.  318. 


Uncoated  Ginger 


a chalky  color,  or  by  immersion  in  chlorinated  lime  or  in  milk  of  lime  or  gypsum.  The 
calcareous  coating  protects  ginger  for  a long  time  against  the  attacks  of  insects,  to  which 
the  other,  more  particularly  the  coated,  varieties  of  the  drug  are  subject.  Ginger  has  an 
agreeable  aromatic  odor  and  a warm,  pungent  taste.  A transverse  section  shows  near  the 
surface  an  endoderm,  and  outside  of  this  numerous  small  cells  containing  oil  and  resin; 
the  central  portion  contains  in  the  rather  compact  parenchyma  many  scattered  small  fibro- 
vascular  bundles  and  a somewhat  smaller  number  of  oil-cells.  The  starch-granules  of 
ginger  are  flat,  vary  in  shape  between  narrow  and  broadly  elliptical  or  ovate,  have  a small 
hilum  near  the  narrow  end,  and  are  marked  by  numerous  fine  lines.  They  resemble 
the  starch-granules  of  East  India  arrowroot,  but  are  smaller.  (See  the  article  Amylumi) 
The  variety  of  ginger  preferred  in  the  United  States  is  known  as  Jamaica  gingery 
comes  chiefly  from  Jamaica,  and  is  distinguished  by  being  longer  and  having  more  slen- 
der lobes  than  the  African  and  East  Indian  varieties.  Jamaica  ginger  affords  a yellowish 
powder  ; that  of  the  other  varieties  is  darker-colored.  Scraped  ginger  is  directed  by  the 
U.  S.  and  British,  the  unscraped  or  partly  scraped  rhizome  by  the  Austrian  and  German 
pharmacopoeias,  while  the  French  Codex  recognizes  the  two  varieties. 

Constituents. — The  analysis  of  ginger  by  Bucholz  (1817)  proved  the  presence  of 
volatile  oil,  a pungent  soft  resin,  starch,  and  gummy  and  extractive  matters.  Oil  of  ginger 

is  obtained  to  the  amount  of  about 
f to  11  or  2 per  cent.,  has  a pale- 
yellow  color,  the  specific  gravity 
0.88  or  0.90,  and  has  the  peculiar 
odor  of  ginger,  but  rather  a mild 
taste.  According  to  Papousek,  it 
is  a hydrate  of  C10H16.  J.  C.  Thresh 
(1881)  found  the  oil  to  boil  between 
150°  and  300°  C.  (302°-572°  F.), 
and  to  contain  hydrocarbons  of  the  formula  C15H24,  cymene,  a little  formic  and  acetic  acids, 
and  various  oxygenated  compounds,  without  notable  quantities  of  ethers  and  aldehydes. 
Thresh  (1879—82)  recognized  in  ginger  the  presence  of  traces  of  an  alkaloid,  and  named 
the  pungent  principle  gingerol.  It  is  a straw-colored,  viscid,  odorless  fluid,  has  an 
extremely  pungent  taste,  is  sparingly  soluble  in  petroleum  benzin,  freely  soluble  in  alcohol, 
diluted  alcohol,  benzene,  volatile  oils,  carbon  disulphide,  alkalies,  and  glacial  acetic  acid. 
It  is  not  a glucoside,  has  an  alkaline  reaction,  gives  precipitates  with  lead,  barium,  and 
magnesium  salts,  slowly  loses  weight  at  100°  C.,  is  decomposed  by  boiling  water  and 
alkali,  and  readily  oxidized;  its  isolation  is  a matter  of  great  difficulty.  Jamaica  ginger 
yields  the  smallest,  and  African  ginger  the  largest,  amount  of  volatile  oil,  resins,  and  gin- 
gerol, and  the  former  variety  yielded  the  largest  percentage  of  mucilage,  metarabin,  starch, 
and  albuminoids.  F.  M.  Siggins  (1888)  obtained  from  bleached  and  unbleached  Jamaica 
ginger  4.8  and  5 per  cent. ; from  East  India  ginger,  6.6  per  cent. ; and  from  African  gin- 
ger, 6.2  to  7 per  cent,  of  alcoholic  extract.  Stenhouse  and  Groves  (1877)  obtained  a little 
protocatechuic  acid  on  melting  the  resinous  extract  with  soda.  Thresh  ascertained  that 
the  greater  portion  of  the  resin  is  a neutral  compound,  and  the  remainder  consists  of  two 


Fig.  319.  Fig.  320. 


ZINGIBER . 


1737 


acid  resins.  According  to  E.  W.  T.  Jones  (1886),  ginger  contains  fully  50  per  cent,  of 
starch.  The  ash  of  air-dry  ginger  varies  between  3.5  and  4.8  per  cent.,  and  the  moisture 
between  13.4  and  14.5  per  cent. 

I Other  Products  of  Zingiberaceae. — Zingiber  (Amomum,  Limit)  Zerumbet,  Roscoe,  yields  the 
zerumbet-root  of  Java.  The  rhizome  is  tuberous,  somewhat  flattened,  spongy,  internally  yellowish, 
with  pale-brown  fibro-vascular  bundles,  and  has  an  agreeable  odor  and  a ginger-like,  somewhat 
bitter  taste. 

Zingiber  Cassumunar,  Roxburgh.  The  cassumunar-root  of  India  is  about  5 Cm.  (2  inches)  in 
diameter,  jointed,  compressed,  with  numerous  white  fleshy  radicles  and  some  white  tubers ; it  is 
externally  scaly  and  light-brown,  internally  yellow  and  rather  woody,  and  has  a camphoraceous 
odor  and  a hot,  aromatic  taste. 

Grana  paradisi.  Grains  of  paradise.  Under  this  name  the  seeds  of  two  plants  are  met  with 
in  commerce  which  resemble  cardamom-seeds  in  size  and  appearance,  but  are  destitute  of  the  fur- 
row seen  on  the  latter.  One  variety  is  about  2 Mm.  inch)  in  diameter,  is  irregularly  roundish 
and  angular,  reddish-brown,  somewhat  glossy  and  finely  warty  on  the  surface,  and  has  a rather 
broad  and  depressed  hilum  ; it  has  been  referred  to  Amomum  Granum-paradisi,  Afzelius , a native 
of  Sierra  Leone.  The  other  variety  is  obtained  from  Amomum  Melegueta,  Roscoe , which  is  like- 
wise indigenous  to  Western  Africa;  the  seeds  are  rather  larger,  2 or  3 Mm.  (TV- 1 inch)  in  length, 
and  are  distinguished  from  the  preceding  by  the  conical  gray-brown  tufted  hilum  ; they  are  also 
known  as  melegueta  pepper  and  Guinea  grains.  Both  varieties  are  feebly  aromatic  and  have  a 
very  pungent  and  burning  taste.  They  yield  about  0.3  per  cent,  of  aromatic  volatile  oil,  and  con- 
tain acrid  resin,  starch,  gum,  etc.  Grains  of  paradise  are  a constituent  of  some  cattle  powders, 
but  are  chiefly  used  for  imparting  artificial  strength  to  liquors. 

See  also  Cardamo.mum,  Curcuma,  Galanga,  and  Zedoaria. 

Medical  Action  and  Uses. — Ginger  was  introduced  from  Asia  through  Arabia 
into  Greece  and  Europe  generally,  and  the  Arabian  and  the  later  Greek  physicians 
employed  it  as  a condiment  and  carminative,  and  also  as  an  aphrodisiac  and  general  stim- 
ulant. They  also  recognized  the  effect  of  its  excessive  use  in  debilitating  the  stomach. 
It  is  a carminative  stimulant  when  taken  internally,  and  when  applied  to  the  skin  it 
occasions  redness,  heat,  and  tingling.  Snuffed  into  the  nostrils,  its  powder  is  a powerful 
sternutatory,  and  when  the  rhizome  is  chewed  it  causes  a copious  secretion  of  saliva. 
Ginger  is  largely  employed  in  cooking,  as  the  spices  proper  are,  to  render  more  digestible 
various  preparations  of  flour,  sugar,  and  certain  vegetables,  and  also  to  expel  the  flatus 
produced  by  the  decomposition  of  food  in  the  digestive  canal.  In  flatulent  colic  ginger  is 
prescribed  in  powder  or  in  tincture  as  a carminative  and  anodyne.  It  may  be  given  in 
powder  mixed  with  hot  water,  but  the  tincture  is  preferable.  The  infusion  and  tincture 
have  been  largely  used  to  correct  diarrhoea  occasioned  by  cold,  and  even  for  a similar  pur- 
pose in  the  forming  stage  of  epidemic  cholera.  Ginger  has  also  been  recommended  in 
chronic  bronchitis. 

As  a rubefacient  and  anodyne  it  is  much  employed  in  cataplasms  and  fomentations  for 
the  relief  of  colic , muscular  rheumatism , neuralgia , toothache , headache,  etc.  The  infusion 
is  of  use  in  recent  cases  of  relaxation  of  the  uvula , and  of  aphonia  from  a similar  condition 
of  the  larynx.  The  rhizome  may  be  used  as  a masticatory  in  paralysis  of  the  tongue, 
cheek,  and  parts  supplied  by  the  portio  dura  of  the  fifth  pair. 

The  dose  of  powdered  ginger  is  from  Gm.  0.60  to  2 (grs.  x-xxx).  The  infusion,  tinc- 
ture, fluid  extract,  syrup,  and  oleoresin  are  officinal. 

Grains  of  paradise  are  generally  ranked  with  cardamom-seeds,  but  their  acrid  and 
exciting  qualities  are  akin  to  those  of  ginger,  for  which  they  may  in  most  cases  be  sub- 
stituted. 


APPENDIX 


List  of  Reagents  and  Tests 

Employed  in  Chemical  Testing,  according  to  the  United  States  Pharmacopoeia. 

The  insertion  of  all  the  official  methods  as  well  as  solutions,  both  for  qualitative  and  quantitative 
tests,  is  rendered  imperative  by  the  frequent  reference  to  the  pharmacopoeial  requirements  in  the  pre- 
ceding pages. 

Strictly  pure  (distilled)  water  is  to  be  used  in  the  preparation  of  the  test-solutions  as  well  as  in  the 
application  of  tests  ; the  former  should  be  perfectly  transparent  and  kept  in  well-stoppered  bottles,  pro- 
tected against  extremes  of'  temperature. 

1.  General  Reagents  and  Test-solutions. 

Absolute  Alcohol. — Use  the  official  absolute  alcohol  (see  page  147). 

Acetic  Acid. — Use  the  official  acetic  acid  (see  page  20). 

Albumen  Test-solution. — Carefully  separate  the  white  of  a hen’s  egg  from  the  yolk,  shake  it  thor- 
oughly with  100  Cc.  of  water,  and  filter.  This  solution  should  be  freshly  made  when  required. 

Aluminum. — Metallic  aluminum  in  the  form  of  foil,  wire,  or  ribbon.  It  should  be  tested  for  arsenic 
by  Fleitmann’s  method,  when  no  color  should  be  imparted  to  the  silver  nitrate  within  two  hours. 

Ammonia-water. — Use  the  official  ammonia-water  (see  page  248). 

Ammonium  Carbonate  Test- solution. — Dissolve  10  Gm.  of  official  ammonium  carbonate  in  a mixture 
of  10  Cc.  of  ammonia- water  and  40  Cc.  of  water.  For  detecting  arsenic  sulphide  in  presence  of  anti- 
mony sulphide,  the  addition  of  ammonia-water  is  omitted,  and  10  Gm.  of  the  salt  are  dissolved  in  a 
sufficient  quantity  of  water  to  make  100  Cc. 

Ammonium  Chloride  Test-solution. — Dissolve  10  Gm.  of  pure  ammonium  chloride  in  enough  water 
to  make  100  Cc. 

Ammonium  Molybdate  Test-solution. — Dissolve  1 Gm.  of  finely  powdered  ammonium  molybdate 
in  6.7  Cc.  of  hot  water,  using  a little  ammonia-water,  if  necessary,  to  effect  solution.  Then  gradually 
pour  the  liquid  into  a mixture  of  3.3  Cc.  of  nitric  acid  (spec.  grav.  1.414)  and  3.4  Cc.  of  water.  Preserve 
the  test-solution  in  the  dark,  and,  if  a sediment  should  form  in  it  after  some  days,  carefully  decant  the 
clear  solution  from  it. 

Ammonium  Oxalate  Test-solution. — Dissolve  4 Gm.  of  pure,  crystallized  ammonium  oxalate  in 
enough  water  to  make  100  Cc.  Or  dissolve  4 Gm.  of  pure  oxalic  acid  in  100  Cc.  of  water,  add  20  Cc.  of 
ammonia-water,  boil  to  expel  excess  of  ammonia,  and  bring  the  volume  to  113  Cc. 

On  evaporating  a portion  of  the  test-solution  and  igniting  the  residue,  it  should  be  completely 
volatilized  (absence  of  fixed  impurities).  The  test-solution  should  not  be  rendered  turbid  by  hydrogen 
sulphide  nor  by  ammonium  sulphide  (absence  of  metals).  The  precipitate  produced  in  it  by  silver 
nitrate  or  by  barium  chloride  should  dissolve  without  residue  upon  addition  of  nitric  acid  (absence  of 
chloride  and  sulphate,  respectively). 

Ammonium  Phosphate  Test- solution. — Dissolve  1 Gm.  of  ammonium  phosphate,  together  with  2 Cc. 
of  ammonia-water,  in  enough  water  to  make  100  Cc.  This  solution  does  not  keep  well.  It  should  be 
freshly  made  when  required,  or  frequently  renewed. 

Ammonium  Sulphide  Test-solution. — Saturate  3 parts  of  pure  ammonia-water  with  pure,  washed 
hydrogen  sulphide,  and  add  to  the  solution  (which  now  contains  ammonium  sulphhydrate)  2 parts  of 
ammonia-water,  which  converts  the  greater  portion  of  the  ammonium  sulphhydrate  into  ammonium 
sulphide.  The  solution  should  be  perfectly  clear  and  colorless,  and,  on  being  evaporated,  leave  no  res- 
idue. It  should  not  be  rendered  turbid  either  by  magnesium  sulphate  (absence  of  free  ammonia)  or  by 
calcium  chloride  (absence  of  ammonium  carbonate).  It  should  be  protected  against  air  and  light  by  being 
kept  in  small,  dark  amber-colored  bottles  in  a dark  place.  As  soon  as  a notable  deposit  of  sulphur  has 
made  its  appearance  in  the  solution,  it  should  be  rejected. 

Ammonium  polysulphide  test-solution  is  occasionally  required.  This  is  a yellow  liquid,  prepared  by 
dissolving  a small  quantity  of  pure  sulphur  in  the  preceding  colorless  ammonium  sulphide  test- 
solution. 

Arsenic  Test,  Bettendorff  s. — To  a small  quantity  of  the  liquid  to  be  tested,  which  should  contain 
much  pure,  concentrated  hydrochloric  acid,  or  should  be  a solution  of  the  substance  to  be  tested  in  pure, 
concentrated  hydrochloric  acid,  add  an  equal  volume  of  a saturated  solution  of  freshly  prepared  stannous 
chloride  in  pure,  concentrated  hydrochloric  acid,  together  with  a small  piece  of  pure  tin-foil.  The  pres- 
ence of  arsenic  is  revealed  by  the  production  of  a brown  color  or  brown  precipitate,  the  appearance  of 
which  is  hastened  by  a gentle  heat.  (See  Stannous  Chloride). 

Arsenic  Test,  Fleitmann’s. — Into  a test-tube  of  at  least  15  Cm.  in  length  and  15  to  18  Mm.  in  diameter 
place  a single,  solid  piece  of  zinc  (see  below),  weighing  about  1 to  1.25  Gm.,  and  add  about  5 Cc.  of  potas- 
sium hydroxide  test-solution,  both  ingredients  having  previously  been  proven  free  from  arsenic  by  having 
been  subjected,  alone , to  the  test  about  to  be  described,  during  at  least  two  hours,  with  negative  result. 
Now  add  the  liquid  to  be  tested,  which  must  not  contain  any  free  acid  nor  very  materially  increase  the 

1739 


1740 


APPENDIX. 


volume  of  the  contents  of  the  test-tube.  Immediately  secure  over  the  mouth  of  the  test-tube  a pre- 
viously prepared  cap  made  of  three  thicknesses  of  pure  filter-paper  free  from  dust,  and  apply  to  the 
upper  filter-paper  a drop  of  a saturated,  aqueous  solution  of  silver  nitrate  acidulated  with  nitric  acid. 
(See  Silver  Nitrate  test-solution.)  Then  place  the  tube  at  once,  upright,  into  a box  containing  sand  heated 
to  about  90°  C.  (194°  F.),  and  fitted  with  a cover,  so  as  to  exclude  light  and  dust,  and  permit  the  reaction 
to  proceed  for  such  a time  as  may  be  specially  prescribed  in  each  case.  The  presence  of  arsenic  (but 
not  of  antimony)  is  revealed  by  the  production,  upon  the  moistened  paper  cap,  of  a brown  or  black 
stain.  In  absence  of  arsenic,  if  the  test  has  been  carefully  conducted,  the  spot  will  remain  colorless. 

In  place  of  zinc,  metallic  aluminum,  best  in  form  of  wire  cut  into  small  pieces,  may  be  emploved 
( Gatehouse's  modification).  The  method  of  testing  and  the  results  are  the  same  as  in  Fleitmann’s  test. 

Arsenic  Test,  Gutzeit’s. — Into  a test-tube  of  at  least  15  Cm.  in  length  and  15  to  18  Mm.  in  diameter 
place  a single,  solid  piece  of  zinc  (see  below)  weighing  about  1 to  1.25  Gm.,  and  add  about  5 Cc.  of  a mix- 
ture, previously  prepared  and  kept  in  readiness  for  this  purpose,  of  10  Cc.  of  pure  sulphuric  acid  of 
spec.  grav.  1.835,  and  190  Cc.  of  water,  the  ingredients  having  previously  been  proven  free  from  arsenic 
by  having  been  subjected,  alone,  to  the  test  about  to  be  described,  during  at  least  two  hours,  with  nega- 
tive result.  Now  add  the  liquid  to  be  tested,  which  should  not  be  alkaline  nor  exceed  1 Cc.  About  1 
Cm.  below  the  open  end  of  the  test-tube  insert  a loose  plug,  about  1 Cm.  long,  of  glass-wool  or  cotton, 
which  has  been  moistened  with  0.5  Cc.  of  lead  acetate  test-solution.  Then  secure  over  the  mouth  a cap 
made  of  three  thicknesses  of  clean  filter-paper,  and  apply  to  the  upper  one  a drop  of  a saturated, 
aqueous  solution  of  silver  nitrate,  acidulated  with  nitric  acid.  (See  Silver  Nitrate  test-solution.)  Place  the 
tube  into  a box  to  exclude  light,  and  let  the  reaction  proceed  as  long  as  may  be  prescribed  in  each  case. 
The  presence  of  arsenic  is  revealed  by  the  production,  upon  the  moistened  paper  cap,  of  a bright  yellow 
stain,  which  becomes  black  or  brown  by  application  of  water.  Antimony  colors  the  spot  black  or  brown 
at  once  without  a previous  yellow  color.  In  this  case  traces  of  arsenic  may  be  overlooked  ; it  is  there- 
fore advisable  to  subject  a fresh  specimen  of  the  solution  to  be  tested  to  Fleitmann’s  test,  which  responds 
only  to  arsenic.  If  the  plug  moistened  with  lead  acetate  solution  be  strongly  colored,  so  that  doubt 
exists  whether  the  coloration  be  due  to  metallic  silver  reduced  by  arsenic,  or  to  silver  sulphide  pro- 
duced by  an  escape  of  hydrogen  sulphide  through  the  plug,  moisten  the  silver  stain  with  diluted  nitric 
acid,  which  will  dissolve  the  metallic  silver  reduced  by  arsenic,  but  will  not  affect  the  black  silver  sul- 
phide. Or  else  put  on  a new  cap  of  filtering  paper,  moistened  with  a drop  of  lead  acetate  test-solution. 
If  this  remains  colorless,  sulphide  is  absent. 

Barium  Carbonate. — Pure  barium  carbonate,  prepared  by  dissolving  12  parts  of  pure,  crystallized 
barium  chloride  in  20  parts  of  boiling  water,  then  adding  a solution  of  5 parts  of  ammonium  carbonate 
in  10  parts  of  boiling  water,  and  afterward  5 parts  of  ammonia-water ; finally  washing  the  precipitate 
thoroughly  and  drying  it. 

Barium  Chloride  Test-solution. — Prepared  from  pure  barium  chloride.  The  aqueous  solution  of 
the  salt  should  be  perfectly  neutral,  and  should  not  yield  a precipitate  with  hydrogen  sulphide  or 
ammonium  sulphide  (absence  of  metals,  etc.).  The  aqueous  solution,  after  being  precipitated  by  diluted 
sulphuric  acid  in  slight  excess,  yields  a filtrate  which  should  not  leave  any  permanent  residue  when 
evaporated  and  heated  on  platinum-foil  (absence  of  other  fixed  bases  and  salts).  Diluted  alcohol,  after 
remaining  in  contact  with  it  for  several  hours,  should,  upon  ignition,  show  a pure  yellowish-green 
colored  flame,  without  red  streaks  (absence  of  traces  of  strontium).  To  prepare  the  test-solution,  dissolve 
12.2  Gm.  of  the  salt  in  enough  water  to  make  100  Cc.  (This  solution  is  of  normal  strength,  so  as  to 
permit  of  its  use  for  volumetric  purposes  also.) 

Barium  Hydroxide  Test-solution. — A saturated  solution  of  barium  hydroxide  in  water.  This  solu- 
tion rapidly  absorbs  carbon  dioxide  from  the  air.  It  is  preferably  prepared  freshly  as  w anted. 

Barium  Nitrate  Test-solution. — Prepared  from  pure  barium  nitrate.  This  salt  should  respond  to 
the  same  tests  as  barium  chloride.  In  addition,  its  aqueous  solution,  slightly  acidulated  with  nitric 
acid,  should  not  be  rendered  turbid  by  silver  nitrate  (absence  of  chloride).  To  prepare  the  test-solution 
dissolve  1 Gm.  of  the  salt  in  water,  to  make  15.3  Cc.  (This  solution  is  of  half  normal  strength,  so  as  to 
permit  of  its  use  for  volumetric  purposes  also.) 

Benzin,  or  Petroleum  Ether. — Use  the  official  benzin  (see  page  333). 

Benzene,  or  Benzol,  C6H6,  is  a colorless,  transparent  liquid  of  a peculiar,  aromatic  odor,  of  a spec, 
grav.  of  0.8846  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  congealing  at  0°  C.  (32°  F).  and  boiling  at  80.37°  C.  (176.7°  F.).  It  is 
insoluble  in  water,  but  soluble  in  4 parts  of  alcohol  and  in  ether.  In  concentrated  sulphuric  acid  it 
should  dissolve  without  producing  a color.  On  shaking  2 Cc.  of  benzene  with  0.5  Cc.  of  sulphuric  acid 
and  1 drop  of  fuming  nitric  acid  no  green  or  blue  tint  should  be  produced  (absence  of  thiophene). 

Brazil-wood  Test-solution. — See  under  Indicators. 

Bromine-water  (Bromine  Test-solution). — An  aqueous  solution  of  bromine  prepared  by  dissolving  1 
Cc.  of  bromine  in  enough  water  to  make  100  Cc. 

Calcium  Chloride  Test-solution. — Dissolve  10.925  Gm.  of  crystallized  calcium  chloride  in  enough 
water  to  make  100  Cc.  (This  solution  is  of  normal  strength,  so  as  to  permit  of  its  use  for  volumetric 
purposes  also.) 

Calcium  Hydroxide  Test-solution  (Lime-water). — Use  the  official  lime-water  (see  page  952). 

Calcium  Sulphate  Test- solution.— Introduce  transparent  crystals  of  native  gypsum  (selenite), 
CaS04  + 2H2O,  into  a flask  filled  with  water,  and  decant  the  clear,  saturated  solution  when  required. 
1 part  of  gypsum  requires,  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  398  parts  of  water  for  solution. 

Carbon  Disulphide. — Use  the  official  carbon  disulphide  (see  page  409). 

Chlorine-water  (Chlorine  Test-solution). — Use  the  official  chlorine-w^ater.  Since  it  rapidly  deterio- 
rates by  keeping,  it  should  be  frequently  renewed  or  freshly  prepared  wrhen  required. 

Chloroform. — Use  the  official  chloroform  (see  page  463). 

Cobaltous  Nitrate  Test-solution. — The  crystallized,  commercial  salt  is  sufficiently  pure  if,  after  it 
is  dissolved  in  water  and  the  cobalt  completely  precipitated  by  ammonium  sulphide,  the  filtrate  leaves 
no  residue  on  evaporation.  To  make  the  test-solution  dissolve  1 Gm.  of  the  salt  in  10  Cc.  of  water. 

Cochineal  Test-solution. — See  under  Indicators. 

Copper  (Metallic  Copper),  in  form  of  wire,  foil,  or  turnings.  The  commercial  article,  brightened,  if 


LIST  OF  REA  GENTS  AND  TESTS. 


1741 


necessary,  by  scouring  with  diluted  hydrochloric  acid,  is  suitable  for  all  purposes  except  testing  for 
arsenic.  If  required  for  this  purpose,  the  absence  of  arsenic  must  first  be  proven.  A small  poi'tion 
(about  0.5  Gm.)  of  the  copper  is  to  be  dissolved  in  hot,  concentrated  sulphuric  acid,  and  this  solution 
subjected  to  Gutzeit’s  test  (see  above  . No  color  should  be  imparted  to  the  silver  nitrate  within  two 
hours  (absence  of  arsenic). 

Cupric  Ammonium  Sulphate  Test  - solution. — A solution  of  cupri-tetrammonium  sulphate, 
Cu(NH3)4S04  + H2O.  To  copper  sulphate  add  ammonia-water  until  the  precipitate  fh’st  formed  is 
nearly,  but  not  completely,  redissolved ; then  filter.  This  solution  is  apt  to  decompose  on  keeping.  It 
should  be  made  freshly  when  required. 

Cupric  Sulphate  Test-solution. — Dissolve  10  Gm.  of  cupric  sulphate  in  enough  water  to  make 
100  Cc. 

Cupric  Tartrate  Test-solution. — See  under  Volumetric  Solutions. 

Corallin  Test- solution. — See  under  Indicators. 

Diphenylamine,  and  Diphenylamine  Test-solution.— See  under  Indicators. 

Eosin  Test-solution. — See  under  Indicators. 

Ether. — Use  the  official  ether.  It  should  be  strictly  neutral  to  litmus-paper. 

Ferric  Ammonium  Sulphate  Test- solution. — Dissolve  10  Gm.  of  ferric  ammonium  sulphate  in 
enough  water  to  make  100  Cc. 

Ferric  Chloride  Test-solution. — Dissolve  10  Gm.  of  ferric  chloride  in  enough  water  to  make  100  Cc. 

Ferrous  Sulphate  Test-solution. — Dissolve  a clear  crystal  of  ferrous  sulphate  in  about  10  parts  of 
water  previously  boiled  to  expel  air.  This  solution  should  be  freshly  prepared  immediately  before  use. 

Ferrous  Sulphide. — A heavy  solid,  in  form  of  black  or  brownish-black  irregular  masses  or  fused 
into  sticks,  soluble  in  sulphuric  or  hydrochloric  acid  with  copious  evolution  of  hydrogen  sulphide.  On 
dissolving  2 Gm.  of  ferrous  sulphide  in  pure  nitro-hydrochloric  acid  diluted  with  a little  water,  evap- 
orating the  solution  to  dryness,  and  testing  the  residue  for  arsenic  by  Gutzeit’s  method  (see  above),  no 
color  should  be  imparted  to  the  silver  nitrate  within  two  hours. 

Fluorescein  Test-solution.— See  under  Indicators. 

Gelatin  Test-solution. — Dissolve  1 Gm.  of  isinglass  [Ichthyocolla,  U.  S.  P.]  in  50  Cc.  of  water  by 
the  aid  of  a gentle  heat,  and  filter  if  necessary.  This  solution  should  be  freshly  made  when  wanted 
for  use. 

Gold  Chloride  Test-solution. — The  commercial  chloride  of  gold,  usually  prepared  by  dissolving  gold 
in  nitro-hydrochloric  acid  and  carefully  evaporating  to  dryness,  mostly  consists  of  aurochloric  acid, 
HAuCU  + 2H2O,  which  is  converted  into  neutral  auric  chloride,  AuCb,  by  fusing  it  at  a temperature  not 
exceeding  150°  C.  (302°  F.),  moistening  the  residue  (now  consisting  of  auric  and  aurous  chloride)  with 
enough  hot  water  to  produce  a syrupy  liquid  (whereby  the  aurous  chloride  is  decomposed  into  auric 
chloride  and  metallic  gold),  and  then  pouring  off  the  clear  liquid  from  the  precipitate.  To  prepare  the 
test-solution  dissolve  the  liquid  finally  obtained  in  the  before-mentioned  process  in  20  volumes  of  water. 
Or  dissolve  1 Gm.  of  dry  auric  chloride  in  30  Cc.  of  water. 

Hydrochloric  Acid,  Pure. — In  addition  to  the  tests  prescribed  for  this  acid  by  the  Pharmacopoeia 
(see  page  62),  it  is  required  to  conform  to  the  following  more  rigorous  tests  before  it  can  be  employed  as  a 
reagent : The  addition  of  1 Cc.  of  barium  chloride  test-solution  to  1 Cc.  of  the  acid  diluted  with  9 Cc.  of 
water  should  cause  no  turbidity  within  twenty-four  hours  (absence  of  sulphuric  acid).  A crystal  of 
diphenylamine  dropped  into  the  acid  should  not  turn  blue  (absence  of  free  chlorine).  On  substituting 
it  for  sulphuric  acid  in  Gutzeit’s  test,  as  described  above,  no  color  should  be  imparted  to  the  silver  nitrate 
within  two  hours  (absence  of  arsenic  or  antimony). 

Hydrogen  Sulphide. — A gas  generated  by  treating  ferrous  sulphide  with  diluted  sulphuric  acid,  and 
washing  the  gas  by  passing  it  through  water. 

Hydrogen  Sulphide  Test-solution,  or  Hydrosulphuric  Acid. — A saturated,  aqueous  solution  of  hydro- 
gen sulphide.  To  prepare  about  1 liter  of  the  solution,  treat  20  Gm.  of  ferrous  sulphide,  in  a suitable 
apparatus,  with  a mixture  of  20  Cc.  of  pure  sulphuric  acid,  spec.  grav.  1.835,  and  250  Cc.  of  water,  pass 
the  gas  through  a wash-bottle  containing  a small  quantity  of  water,  and  conduct  it  into  a bottle  of  the 
capacity  of  about  H liters,  containing  1 liter  of  water.  When  the  gas  is  no  longer  absorbed,  transfer 
the  solution  to  small,  dark  amber-colored  bottles,  to  be  filled  nearly  to  the  top,  pass  a stream  of  hydro- 
gen sulphide  for  a few  minutes  through  each,  and  then  at  once  stopper  them  tightly,  and  preserve  them 
afterward  in  a cool  and  dark  place.  Before  putting  them  aside  introduce  into  one  of  these  bottles  a 
few  drops  of  pure  hydrochloric  acid,  and  keep  it  in  a warm  place  during  twenty-four  hours,  after  which 
time  no  precipitate  should  be  found  in  it  (absence  of  arsenic).  Before  any  of  the  solution  is  used,  it 
should  be  ascertained  that  it  retains  a strong  odor  of  hydrogen  sulphide,  and  that,  when  it  is  added  to 
an  equal  volume  of  ferric  chloride  test-solution,  a copious  precipitate  of  sulphur  is  formed  at  once. 

Indigo  Test- solution. —Place  6 Gm.  (3.3  Cc.)  of  fuming  sulphuric  acid  into  a beaker  well  cooled  by 
immersion  in  water,  and  stir  into  it,  very  gradually,  1 Gm.  of  finely-powdered  Bengal  indigo.  Set  the 
mixture  aside  for  two  days,  then  pour  it  into  20  Cc.  of  water,  and  decant.  Or  dissolve  1 Gm.  of  com- 
mercial indigo-carmine  (the  sodium  or  potassium  salt  of  sulphindigotic  acid)  in  150  Cc.  of  water. 

Iodine  Test-solution.— For  preparing  the  ordinary  test-solution  (as  a reagent  for  starch,  alcohol  by 
iodoform  test,  etc.)  iodine  fulfilling  the  requirements  of  the  Pharmacopoeia  is  sufficiently  pure.  For 
this  purpose  dissolve  1 Gm.  of  iodine  and  3 Gm.  of  potassium  iodide  in  50  Cc.  of  water. 

For  use  in  volumetric  analysis,  or  in  other  cases  where  the  ordinary  impurities  present  in  official 
iodine  are  objectionable,  Purified  Iodine  must  be  employed. 

Iron,  Metallic. — Bright  and  perfectly  clean  iron  in  the  form  of  wire,  sheet,  or  filings,  according  to 
the  uses  to  be  made  of  it.  For  making  solutions  of  pure  iron  salts,  fine,  thin,  bright  wire  (so-called 
florists’  wire)  should  be  used.  For  detecting  copper,  bright  pieces  of  sheet  iron  or  knitting-needles  are 
used ; for  detecting  nitric  acid  by  reduction  to  ammonia,  iron-filings  are  preferable. 

Lead  Acetate  Test-solution. — Dissolve  10  Gm.  of  clear,  transparent  crystals  of  lead  acetate,  free 
from  adhering  lead  carbonate,  in  enough  water  to  make  100  Cc.  Preserve  the  solution  in  well-stoppered 
bottles. 


1742 


APPENDIX. 


Basic  Lead  Acetate  Test-solution. — Use  the  official  solution  of  lead  subacetate. 

Litmus-Paper  and  Test-solution.— See  under  Indicators. 

Magnesia  Mixture. — Dissolve  10  Gm.  of  magnesium  sulphate  and  20  Gm.  of  ammonium  chloride  in 
80  Cc.  of  water,  add  42  Cc.  of  ammonia-water,  set  the  mixture  aside  for  a few  days  in  a well-stoppered 
vessel,  and  filter.  It  should  never  be  used  freshly  made. 

Magnesium  Sulphate  Test- solution. — Dissolve  10  Gm.  of  magnesium  sulphate  in  enough  water  to 
make  100  Cc. 

Mercuric  Chloride  Test- solution. — Dissolve  5 Gm.  of  mercuric  chloride  in  enough  water  to  make 
100  Cc. 

Mercuric  Potassium  Iodide  Test-solution. — Use  the  decinormal  mercuric  potassium  iodide  volu- 
metric solution. 

Alkaline  Mercuric  Potassium  Iodide  Test-solution.  ( Nessler's  Solution.) — Dissolve  5 Gm.  of  potas- 
sium iodide  in  5 Cc.  of  hot  water,  and  add  to  this  a hot  solution  of  2.5  Gm.  of  mercuric  chloride  [U.  S.  P.] 
in  10  Cc.  of  water.  . To  the  turbid,  red  mixture  add  16  Gm.  of  potassium  hydroxide  [ Potassa , U.  S.  P.j, 
dissolved  in  40  Cc.  of  water,  and  finally  make  up  the  volume  to  100  Cc.  A surplus  of  red  mercuric 
iodide  deposits  on  cooling,  and  may  be  left  in  the  bottle,  the  clear  solution  being  decanted  as  needed. 

Mercurous  Nitrate  Test- solution,  Hg2(N03)2  + 2H2O.— Into  a porcelain  capsule  put  1 Gm.  of  pure 
mercury  with  0.5  Cc.  of  pure  nitric  acid  and  0.5  Cc.  of  distilled  water,  and  place  it  for  twenty-four  hours 
into  a cool,  dark  room.  Separate  and  drain  the  crystals,  and  dissolve  them  in  100  Cc.  of  water.  Preserve 
the  solution  in  a dark  amber-colored  bottle,  into  which  a small  globule  of  mercury  has  been  placed. 

Methyl  Alcohol,  CH3OH. — For  the  identification  of  salicylic  acid,  the  rectified,  commercial  wood- 
alcohol,  having  a specific  gravity  of  about  0.820,  is  sufficiently  pure,  if  it  forms  a clear,  transparent 
mixture  with  an  equal  volume  of  distilled  water. 

Methyl-Orange  Test- solution. — See  under  Indicators. 

Nitric  Acid,  Pure.— In  addition  to  the  tests  prescribed  for  this  acid  by  the  Pharmacopoeia  (see  page 
75)  it  is  required  to  conform  to  the  following  more  rigorous  test  before  it  can  be  used  as  a reagent : On 
supersaturating  0.5  Cc.  of  the  acid  with  pure  potassium  hydroxide  test-solution,  and  testing  a portion 
of  this  solution  by  Fleitmann’s  method  (see  above),  no  color  should  he  imparted  to  the  silver  nitrate 
within  two  hours  (absence  of  arsenic). 

Fuming  Nitric  Acid  (Red  Fuming  Nitric  Acid). — The  commercial  acid  will  answer,  if  it  is  of  specific 
gravity  of  1.450  or  over.  It  should  be  carefully  kept  in  glass-stoppered  bottles  in  a cool  place. 

Oxalic  Acid  Test- solution. — Use  the  decinormal  volumetric  solution. 

Phenolphtalein  Test-solution. — See  under  Indicators. 

Picric  Acid  Test- solution. — Dissolve  1 Gm.  of  pure,  distinctly  crystalline  picric  acid  (trinitrophenoi), 
C6H2(N02)30H,  in  100  Cc.  of  water,  cool  the  solution,  and  filter,  if  necessary. 

Platinic  Chloride  Test-solution. — Heat  1 Gm.  of  pure  platinum,  in  chips,  with  6 Cc.  of  concentrated 
hydrochloric  acid  to  80°  C.  (186°  F.),  and  very  gradually  add  1 Cc.  of  strong  nitric  acid  (spec.  grav.  1.414) 
until  very  nearly  all  the  platinum  is  dissolved.  Evaporate  the  solution  to  dryness  on  a water-bath, 
moisten  the  residue  with  a few  drops  of  hydrochloric  acid,  and  again  evaporate  to  expel  the  excess  of 
acid.  Dissolve  the  residue  in  20  Cc.  of  water.  The  test-solution  may  also  be  prepared  by  dissolving  1.7 
Gm.  of  neutral  platinic  chloride,  PtCU,  or  2.6  Gm.  of  chloroplatinic  acid,  HiPtCle  -f  6H2O  in  20  Cc.  of 
water.  On  evaporating  a small  portion  of  the  solution  to  dryness  and  igniting  the  residue,  pure, 
metallic  platinum  should  be  left  behind,  which  should  yield  nothing  soluble  to  nitric  acid. 

Potassium  Carbonate  Test-solution. — Dissolve  10  Gm.  of  pure  anhydrous  potassium  carbonate  [pre- 
pared from  Potassii  Carbonas,  U.  S.  P.]  in  enough  water  to  make  100  Cc. 

Potassium  Chromate  Test-solution. — Dissolve  1 Gm.  of  potassium  chromate,  K2Cr04,  in  enough 
water  to  make  10  Cc.  On  adding  silver  nitrate  to  a little  of  the  solution,  a red  precipitate  is  produced, 
which  should  be  completely  dissolved  by  nitric  acid  (absence  of  chloride).  Another  portion  of  the  solu- 
tion, mixed  with  an  equal  volume  of  diluted  hydrochloric  acid,  should  yield  no  precipitate  with  barium 
chloride  (absence  of  sulphate). 

Potassium  Cyanide  Test-solution. — This  should  be  freshly  prepared,  when  required,  by  dissolving 
1 Gm.  of  official  potassium  cyanide  in  4 parts  of  water. 

Potassium  Dichromate. — Use  the  official  potassium  dichromate. 

Potassium  Dichromate  Test-solution. — Dissolve  10  Gm.  of  official  potassium  dichromate  in  enough 

water  to  make  100  Cc. 

Potassium  Ferricyanide  Test-solution. — Dissolve  1 part  of  potassium  ferricyanide  in  about  10  parts 
of  water.  This  solution  should  be  made  freshly  when  required,  as  it  is  rapidly  decomposed  by  light. 
A freshly  prepared,  aqueous  solution,  when  mixed  with  some  ferric  chloride  test-solution  and  diluted 
with  water,  should  show  a brown  tint,  free  from  turbidity  or  a shade  of  green. 

Potassium  Ferrocyanide  Test-solution. — Dissolve  10  Gm.  of  official  potassium  ferrocyanide  in 
enough  water  to  make  100  Cc. 

Potassium  Hydroxide  Test- solution.  Use  the  official  solution  of  potassa  (see  page  975).  For  use  in 
Fleitmann’s  test  for  arsenic  (see  above),  it  should  have  previously  been  subjected,  by  itself,  to  this  test 
for  at  least  two  hours,  with  negative  result  (absence  of  arsenic). 

Potassium  Iodide  Test-solution. — Dissolve  16.556  Gm.  of  official  potassium  iodide  in  enough  water 
to  make  100  Cc.,  and  keep  the  solution  in  dark  amber-colored,  well-stoppered  bottles  to  prevent  the 
formation  of  iodate.  The  solution  should  be  frequently  renewed,  or  freshly  prepared  when  required. 
(This  solution  is  of  normal  strength,  so  as  to  peTmit  of  its  use  for  volumetric  and  gasometric  purposes 
also.) 

Potassium  Nitrate. — The  dry  salt  responding  to  the  tests  of  purity  required  by  the  Pharmacopoeia, 
particularly  to  those  for  absence  of  chloride  and  sulphate. 

Potassium  Permanganate  Test- solution. — Use  the  decinormal  volumetric  solution. 

Potassium  Sulphate  Test-solution. — Dissolve  1 Gm.  of  official  potassium  sulphate  in  enough  water 
to  make  115  Cc.  (This  solution  is  of  decinormal  strength,  so  as  to  permit  of  its  use  for  volumetric 


LIST  OF  REAGENTS  AND  TESTS. 


1743 


purposes  also,  as  a substitute  for  decinormal  sulphuric  acid,  when  it  is  desired  not  to  disturb  the  neu- 
trality of  a liquid.) 

Potassium  Sulphocyanate  Test-solution. — Use  the  decinormal  volumetric  solution. 

Pyrogallol. — Use  the  official  pyrogallol,  C6H3(OH)3  (see  page  1335). 

Rosolic  Acid. — See  under  Indicators. 

Silver  Ammonium  Nitrate  Test-solution.— Dissolve  1 Gm.  of  official  silver  nitrate  in  20  Cc.  of  water, 
and  add  ammonia-water,  drop  by  drop,  until  the  precipitate  first  produced  is  almost,  but  not  entirely, 
redissolved.  Filter  the  solution,  and  preserve  it  in  dark  amber-colored  and  well-stoppered  bottles. 

Silver  Nitrate  Test-solution.— For  ordinary  purposes  use  the  decinormal  volumetric  solution.  For 
Gutzeit’s  test  use  a saturated  solution  of  silver  nitrate  in  water  acidulated  with  about  1 per  cent,  of 
nitric  acid. 

Silver  Sulphate  Test-solution.— Dissolve  1 Gm.  of  official  silver  nitrate  in  0.5  Cc.  of  warm  water, 
and  add  1.5  Cc.  of  pure,  concentrated  sulphuric  acid.  On  cooling,  small  transparent  crystals  of  silver 
sulphate  separate.  Carefully  pour  off  the  acid  liquid,  wash  the  crystals  repeatedly,  by  decantation 
with  cold  water,  transfer  them  to  a bottle,  add  100  Cc.  of  water,  and  agitate  so  as  to  produce  a saturated 
solution.  For  use  decant  a sufficient  quantity  of  the  latter. 

Sodium  Acetate  Test-solution. — Dissolve  10  Gm.  of  official  sodium  acetate  in  enough  water  to 
make  100  Cc. 

Sodium  Bitartrate  Test-solution.— Dissolve  150  Gm  of  tartaric  acid  in  100  Cc.  of  hot  water,  and 
divide  the  solution  into  two  equal  portions.  Neutralize  one  of  these  accurately  wifh  sodium  bicarbonate 
(which  will  require  about  84  Gm.  of  this  salt),  and  then  add  the  other  portion  of  the  acid  solution.  On 
cooling,  crystals  of  sodium  bitartrate,  NaHCcEHOe  + H2O,  will  separate.  Remove  these,  dry  them,  and 
keep  them  in  well-stoppered  bottles.  The  test-solution  is  freshly  prepared,  when  required,  by  dissolving 
1 Gm.  of  the  salt  in  4 Cc.  of  water. 

Sodium  Carbonate.— The  anhydrous  salt,  Na2C03,  conforming  to  the  tests  of  purity  prescribed  by 
the  Pharmacopoeia  for  Sodii  Carbonas,  but  absolutely  free  from  chloride  or  sulphate. 

Sodium  Carbonate  Test-solution. — Dissolve  10.6  Gm.  of  anhydrous  sodium  carbonate  in  enough 
water  to  make  100  Cc.  (This  solution  is  of  double  normal  strength,  so  as  to  permit  of  its  use  for  volu- 
metric purposes  also.) 

Sodium  Cobaltic  Nitrite  Test-solution. — Co2(NO‘2)66NaN02  + H20.  Dissolve  4 Gm.  of  cobaltous 
nitrate,  Co(N03)2  + 6H20  and  10  Gm.  of  sodium  nitrite,  NaN02,  in  about  50  Cc.  of  water,  add  2 Cc.  of 
acetic  acid,  and  dilute  with  enough  water  to  make  100  Cc.  Should  any  of  the  nitrous  acid  be  lost  by 
keeping  the  solution,  a few  drops  of  acetic  acid  may  be  added. 

Sodium  Hydroxide  Test-solution.— Use  the  official  solution  of  soda  (see  page  981). 

Sodium  Thiosulphate  (Hyposulphite). — Use  the  decinormal  volumetric  solution. 

Sodium  Nitrite,  NaN02. — The  purest  commercial  salt,  generally  in  form  of  pencils,  is  sufficiently 
pure. 

Sodium  Nitro-prusside  Test-solution. — Dissolve  1 part  of  sodium  nitro-prusside,  Na2Fe(NO)(CN)5  + 
2H2O  in  10  parts  of  water  immediately  before  using. 

Sodium  Phosphate  Test-solution.— Dissolve  10  Gm.  of  official  sodium  phosphate,  Na2HP04  + 12H20, 
in  enough  water  to  make  100  Cc. 

Stannous  Chloride  Test-solution.— Heat  pure  tin,  in  form  of  foil  or  granules,  with  concentrated 
hydrochloric  acid,  taking  care  that  the  metal  be  in  excess.  When  the  acid  is  saturated,  crystals  of 
stannous  chloride,  SnCl2  + 2H20,  begin  to  form.  Remove  and  drain  these,  dissolve  them  in  10  parts  of 
water,  and  preserve  the  solution  in  well-stoppered  bottles,  into  each  of  which  a granule  of  pure  tin  or  a 
piece  of  pure  tin-foil  has  previously  been  introduced. 

For  Bettendorff ’s  test  (see  above)  pure  concentrated  hydrochloric  acid  is  saturated  with  the  freshly- 
prepared  crystals. 

Starch  Test-solution. — Mix  1 Gm.  of  starch  with  10  Cc.  of  cold  water,  and  then  add  enough  boiling 
water,  under  constant  stirring,  to  make  about  200  Cc.  of  a thin,  transparent  jelly.  If  it  is  desired  to 
preserve  this  test-solution  for  any  length  of  time,  10  Gm.  of  zinc  chloride,  ZnCl2,  should  be  added  to  it, 
and  the  solution  transferred  to  small  bottles,  which  should  be  well  stoppered. 

Sulphuric  Acid,  Pure. — The  sulphuric  acid  of  the  Pharmacopoeia,  which  may  have  a specific  gravity 
as  low  as  1.835,  will  answer  as  a reagent  for  most  purposes,  provided  it  is  of  the  required  degree  of 
purity.  But  when  “concentrated  ” sulphuric  acid  is  specially  directed  in  a test,  it  is  intended  that  the 
strongest  obtainable  pure  acid,  of  a specific  gravity  of  not  less  than  1.840,  be  employed. 

In  addition  to  the  tests  prescribed  for  this  acid  by  the  Pharmacopoeia  (see  page  id),  it  is  required  to 
conform  to  the  following  more  rigorous  tests  before  it  can  be  employed  as  a reagent:  If  1 Cc.  of 
diphenylamine  test-solution  be  carefully  poured,  as  a separate  layer,  upon  5 Cc.  of  sulphuric  acid  con- 
tained in  a test-tube,  no  distinct  blue  color  should  appear  in  the  zone  of  contact  (absence  of  nitric  acid). 
If  a few  crystals  of  pyrogallol  be  dissolved  in  about  1 Cc.  of  pure  water,  and  this  solution  be  carefully 
poured,  as  a separate  layer,  upon  some  of  the  sulphuric  acid  contained  in  a test-tube,  no  brown  color 
should  appear  in  the  zone  of  contact  (absence  of  nitric  or  nitrous  acid).  If  a small  portion  of  the  acid 
be  subjected  to  Gutzeit’s  test,  no  color  should  be  imparted  to  the  silver  nitrate  within  two  hours 
(absence  of  arsenic,  etc.). 

If  it  is  impossible  to  obtain  any  sulphuric  acid  which  will  comply  with  each  of  these  requirements, 
two  kinds  of  the  acid  may  be  kept,  one  absolutely  free  from  arsenic,  for  making  the  arsenic  tests;  the 
other  free  nitrose  (nitric  and  nitrous  acids),  for  the  detection  of  nitric  acid. 

Tannic  Acid  Test-solution. — Dissolve  1 Gm.  of  tannic  acid  in  1 Cc.  of  alcohol  and  enough  water  to 
make  10  Cc.,  immediately  before  use. 

Tartaric  Acid  Test- solution. — Dissolve  1 part  of  tartaric  acid  in  3 parts  of  water.  In  the  volumetric 
estimation  of  soda  in  potassa  directed  by  the  Pharmacopoeia,  the  tartaric  acid  test-solution  employed 
for  precipitating  the  potassa  should  contain  3 Gm.  of  the  acid  in  20  Cc.  Since  fungous  growths  rapidly 
destroy  the  solution  of  tartaric  acid,  it  should  be  prepared  only  as  wanted. 

Tin. — Pure  metallic  tin  in  form  of  granules.  Its  solution  in  hjTdrochloric  acid  should  not  be  precipi- 


1744 


APPENDIX. 


tated  by  potassium  sulphate  test-solution  (absence  of  lead),  and,  when  examined  by  Gutzeit’s  test,  it 
should  not  cause  silver  nitrate  to  become  colored  within  two  hours  (absence  of  arsenic). 

Turmeric  Paper  aud  Tincture. — See  under  Indicators. 

Zinc. — Metallic  zinc,  preferably  in  the  form  of  thin  pencils  (about  5 Mm.  in  diameter),  prepared  by 
fusing  the  metal  and  casting  it  in  moulds,  or  in  form  of  thin  sheets.  It  should  respond  to  all  the  tests 
required  by  the  Pharmacopoeia,  and  in  addition,  when  examined  by  Gutzeit’s  test,  it  should  not  cause 
the  silver  nitrate  to  become  colored  within  two  hours  (absence  of  arsenic). 

Zinc-Iodide- Starch  Test- solution.— To  100  Cc.  of  freshly  prepared  starch  test-solution  add  5 Gm.  of 
official  zinc  chloride  and  3 Gm.  of  official  zinc  iodide.  Preserve  the  colorless  solution  carefully  in  small, 
dark  amber-colored  and  well-stoppered  vials. 

2.  Indicators  for  Acidimetry,  Alkalimetry,  etc. 

Note. — Each  test-solution  used  as  indicator  should  be  examined  as  soon  as  prepared,  and  afterward 
from  time  to  time,  as  to  its  neutrality.  If  necessary,  it  should  be  brought,  by  the  cautious  addition  of 
diluted  sulphuric  acid,  or  of  a dilute  solution  of  an  alkali,  to  such  a point  that,  when  a few  drops  of  it 
are  added  to  25  Cc.  of  water,  a single  drop  of  a centinormal  acid  or  alkali  solution,  respectively,  will  dis- 
tinctly develop  the  corresponding  tints. 

Since  many  of  the  colored  test-solutions  are  injured  by  exposure  to  light,  it  is  best  to  preserve  them 
in  dark,  amber-colored  vials.  Papers  prepared  wTitk  them  should  be  kept  in  dark  bottles  or  paper  boxes. 

Brazil-Wood  Test-solution. — Boil  50  Gm.  of  finely-cut  Brazil-wood  [the  heart-wood  of  Peltophorum 
dubium  ( Sprengel ) Britton,  nat.  ord.  Leguminosse]  with  100  Cc.  of  water  during  half  an  hour,  replacing 
the  water  from  time  to  time.  Allow  the  mixture  to  cool,  strain,  wash  the  contents  of  the  strainer  with 
water  until  100  Cc.  of  strained  liquid  are  obtained,  add  25  Cc.  of  alcohol,  and  filter.  This  solution  turns 
purplish-red  with  alkalies,  and  yellow  with  acids. 

Cochineal  Test-solution. — Macerate  1 Gm.  of  unbroken  cochineal  during  four  days  with  20  Cc.  of 
alcohol  and  60  Cc.  of  water.  Then  filter.  The  color  of  this  test-solution  turns  violet  with  alkalies, 
and  yellowish-red  with  acids.  As  an  indicator  it  is  used  chiefly  when  ammonia  or  alkaline  earths  are 
present. 

Corallin  Test-solution.— Dissolve  1 Gm.  of  Corallin  (a  coloring  matter  derived  from  coal-tar,  and 
containing  rosolic  and  pararosolic  acids)  in  10  Cc.  of  alcohol  and  enough  water  to  make  100  Cc. 

Diphenylamine  (CeHs^NH  is  in  form  of  grayish -white  or  colorless  crystals,  of  a peculiar,  aromatic 
odor,  melting  at  54°  C.  (129.2°  F.),  slightly  soluble  in  water,  more  soluble  in  acids.  It  is  used  either  in 
the  dry  state,  or  in  solution  in  dilute  sulphuric  acid,  as  a test  for  nitric  acid  (in  sulphuric  acid,  water, 
etc.),  or  for  chlorine  (in  hydrochloric  acid).  To  test  a solution  for  the  presence  of  nitric  acid,  a small  por- 
tion of  it  is  mixed  with  1 or  2 drops  of  diphenylamine  test-solution,  and  then  concentrated  sulphuric 
acid,  free  from  nitrose,  is  poured  in,  so  as  to  form  a layer  beneath  the  solution.  The  presence  of  nitric 
acid  is  shown  by  a deep  blue  color  at  the  zone  of  contact. 

Diphenylamine  test-solution  is  prepared  by  dissolving  0.1  Gm.  of  diphenylamine  in  50  Cc.  of  diluted 
sulphuric  acid.  The  solution  should  be  colorless. 

Eosin  Test- solution. — Dissolve  1 Gm.  of  commercial  “yellowish”  eosin  [K2C2oH6Br405]  in  30  Cc.  of 
water.  This  solution  is  red  by  transmitted  light,  and  shows  a strong  green  fluorescence  by  reflected 
light.  Acids  destroy  the  fluorescence,  and  alkalies  restore  it. 

Fluorescein  Test-solution. — Agitate  1 Gm.  of  fluorescein  [C20H12O5]  with  100  Cc.  of  diluted  alcohol 
until  the  latter  is  saturated ; then  filter.  This  solution  shows  a strong  green  fluorescence,  by  reflected 
light,  in  presence  of  the  least  excess  of  an  alkali. 

Litmus-Paper  and  Test-solution. — Exhaust  coarsely-powdered  litmus  with  boiling  alcohol  (which 
removes  a peculiar,  red  coloring  matter,  erythrolitmin),  and  digest  the  residue  with  about  an  equal 
weight  of  cold  water,  so  as  to  dissolve  the  excess  of  alkali  present.  The  blue  solution  thus  obtained, 
after  being  acidulated,  may  be  used  to  make  red  litmus-paper.  Finally  extract  the  residue  with  about  five 
times  its  weight  of  boiling  water,  and  filter.  Preserve  the  filtrate,  as  test-solution,  in  wide-mouthed 
bottles  stoppered  with  loose  plugs  of  cotton  to  exclude  dust,  but  to  admit  air. 

Litmus-Paper.  Blue. — Impregnate,  with  the  test-solution  just  described,  strips  of  white,  unsized  paper, 
free  from  wood-pulp,  but  not  too  porous,  and  dry  them  by  suspending  them  on  strings  of  clean  twine. 

Litmus-Paper,  Bed. — Prepare  this  with  the  same  kind  of  paper  and  in  the  same  manner  as  described 
in  the  preceding  paragraph.  To  impregnate  the  paper,  either  use  the  blue  solution  obtained  from  litmus, 
by  treating  the  mass,  after  extraction  of  alcohol,  with  cold  wrater,  acidulating  the  same  with  just  enough 
hydrochloric  acid  to  impart  to  it  a distinctly  red  tint ; or  use  the  regular  test-solution,  after  acidulating 
it  in  the  same  manner. 

Neither  blue  nor  red  litmus-paper  should  have  a very  intense  color. 

Preserve  the  test-paper  in  paper  boxes  or  bottles,  so  as  to  exclude  dust  and  acid  or  ammoniacal  vapors. 

Methyl-orange  Test-solution. — Dissolve  1 Gm.  of  methyl-orange  [the  sodium  or  ammonium  salt  of 
dimethylamidoazobenzenesulphonic  acid,  HC14H14N3SO3 ; also  known  as  helianthin,  or  tropseolin  D,  or 
Poirrier’s  Orange  III]  in  1000  Cc.  of  water.  Add  to  it  carefully,  diluted  sulphuric  acid,  in  drops,  until 
the  liquid  turns  red  and  just  ceases  to  be  transparent.  Then  filter. 

The  solution  acquires  a yellow  color  when  brought  in  contact  with  alkali  hydroxides,  carbonates,  or 
bicarbonates.  Carbonic  acid  does  not  affect  it,  but  sulphuric,  hydrochloric,  and  other  acids  change  its 
color  to  crimson.  It  is  not  suited  for  use  with  organic  acids. 

Phenolphtalein  Test-solution.— Dissolve  1 Gm  of  phenolphtalein  [C20H14O4]  in  100  Cc.  of  diluted 
alcohol.  The  solution  is  colored  deep  purplish-red  by  alkali  hydroxides  or  carbonates;  bicarbonates  and 
most  other  salts  do  not  produce  such  color ; acids  render  the  reddened  solution  colorless.  It  is  not 
suitable  as  an  indicator  for  ammonia  or  bicarbonates.  Phenolphtalein  Paper  is  prepared  by  impregnating 
white,  unsized  paper  with  the  test-solution  and  drying  it. 

Rosolic  Acid  Test- solution.  —Dissolve  1 Gm.  of  commercial  rosolic  acid  [chiefly  methylaurin. 
C20H16O3]  in  10  Cc.  of  diluted  alcohol,  and  add  enough  water  to  make  100  Cc.  The  solution  turns  violet- 
red  with  alkalies,  yellow  with  acids.  In  place  of  rosolic  acid,  commercial  pseonin  (also  known  as  aurin 
B)  [chiefly  C19H14O3]  may  be  employed. 


LIST  OF  REA  GENTS  AND  TESTS. 


1745 


Turmeric  Tincture. — Digest  any  convenient  quantity  of  ground  curcuma-root  [from  Curcuma  longa, 
Linne.  nat.  ord.  Scitamineae]  repeatedly  with  small  quantities  of  water  and  throw  this  liquid,  away. 
Then  digest  the  dried  residue  for  several  days  with  six  times  its  weight  of  alcohol,  and  filter.  Turmeric 
Paper. — Impregnate  white,  unsized  paper  with  the  tincture,  and  dry  it.  The  tincture,  as  well  as  the 
paper,  turns  brown  with  alkalies,  and  the  yellow  color  is  restored  by  acids.  Boric  acid,  however, 
even  in  presence  of  hydrochloric  acid,  turns  the  color  to  reddish-brown,  and  this  is  changed  to  bluish- 
black  by  ammonia. 


3.  Volumetric  Solutions  for  Quantitative  Tests. 

Volumetric  solutions  are  designated  as  normal  ( --)  when  they  contain  in  1 liter  the  molecular  weight 
of  the  active  reagent,  expressed  in  grammes,  and  reduced  to  the  equivalent  of  1 atom  of  hydrogen. 

Thus  hydrochloric  acid,  HC1  = 36.37,  having  but  one  H atom  replaceable  by  a basic  element,  has 
36.37  Gm.  of  HC1  in  1000  Cc.  of  the  normal  volumetric  solution  ; while  sulphuric  acid,  H2SO4  = 97.82, 
having  two  replaceable  H atoms,  contains  only  one-half  this  number,  or  48.91  grammes  of  H2SO4  in  1000 
Cc.  of  its  normal  solution.  Potassium  hydroxide,  KOH  = 55.99,  has  but  one  K to  replace  one  H in  acids; 
hence  its  normal  solution  contains  55.99  grammes  of  KOH  in  1 liter  ; potassium  dichromate,  K2Cr207  = 
293.78,  having  2 K atoms  in  the  molecule,  requires  one-half  its  molecular  weight,  or  146.89  grammes,  for 
1 liter  of  normal  solution. 

Solutions  containing  in  1 liter  one-tenth  of  the  quantity  of  the  active  reagent  in  the  normal  solu- 
tion are  called  decinormal  ; those  containing  one  one-hundredth,  centinormal  (,00) ; those  containing 
twice  the  amount,  double  normal  (y);  half  amount,  seminormal  (y  )• 

Solutions  containing  quantities  of  the  active  reagent  having  no  simple  relation  to  the  molecular 
weight  are  called  empirical. 

Alkaline  Cupric  Tartrate  Volumetric  Solution,  U.  S. 

[Fehling’s  Solution.] 

A.  The  Copper  Solution. — Dissolve  34.64  Gm.  of  carefully  selected,  small  crystals  of  pure  cupric  sul- 
phate, showing  no  trace  of  efflorescence  or  of  adhering  moisture,  in  a sufficient  quantity  of  water  to 
make  the  solution  measure,  at  or  near  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  exactly  500  Cc.  B.  The  Rochelle  Salt  Solution. — Dis- 
solve 173  Gm.  of  potassium  and  sodium  tartrate  and  125  Gm.  of  potassium  hydroxide  in  a sufficient 
quantity  of  water  to  make  the  solution  measure,  at  or  near  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  exactly  500  Cc. 

Keep  the  solutions  in  small,  rubber-stoppered  bottles.  For  use,  mix  exactly  equal  volumes  of  the 
solutions  at  the  time  required. 

One  Cubic  Centimeter  of  the  mixed  solution  is  the  equivalent  of: 

Cupric  Sulphate,  crystallized,  CuS04  + 5H2O 

Cupric  Tartrate,  CUC4H4O6  + 3H2O 

Glucose,  anhydrous,  C6H12O6 

Decinormal  Bromine  Volumetric  Solution,  U.  S. 

[KOPPESCH AAR’S  SOLUTION.] 

Br  = 79.76.  7.976  Gm.  in  1 Liter. 

(NaBrOs  = 150.64.  - NaBr  = 102.76.) 

(KBrOa  = 166.67.  - KBr  = 118.79.) 

Dissolve  3 Gm.  of  sodium  bromate  and  50  Gm.  of  sodium  bromide  (or  3.2  Gm.  of  potassium  bromate 
and  50  Gm.  of  potassium  bromide)  in  enough  water  to  make,  at  or  near  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  900  Cc.  Of  this 
solution  transfer  20  Cc.,  by  means  of  a pipette,  into  a bottle  having  a capacity  of  about  250  Cc.,  provided 
with  a glass  stopper ; add  75  Cc.  of  water,  next  5 Cc.  of  pure  hydrochloric  acid,  and  immediately  insert 
the  stopper.  Shake  the  bottle  a few  times,  then  remove  the  stopper  just  sufficiently  to  quickly  intro- 
duce 5 Cc.  of  potassium  iodide  test-solution,  taking  care  that  no  bromine  vapor  escape,  and  immediately 
stopper  the  bottle.  Agitate  the  bottle  thoroughly,  remove  the  stopper  and  rinse  it  and  the  neck  of  the 
bottle  with  a little  water,  so  that  the  washings  flow  into  the  bottle,  and  then  add  from  a burette  deci- 
normal sodium  thiosulphate  solution  until  the  iodine  tint  is  exactly  discharged,  using  toward  the  end  a 
few  drops  of  starch  test-solution  as  indicator.  Note  the  number  of  Cc.  of  the  sodium  thiosulphate  solu- 
tion thus  consumed,  and  then  dilute  the  bromine  solution  so  that  equal  volumes  of  it  and  of  decinormal 
sodium  thiosulphate  solution  will  exactly  correspond  to  each  other  under  the  conditions  mentioned  above. 

Example. — Assuming  that  the  20  Cc.  of  the  bromine  solution  have  required  25.2  Cc.  of  the  thio- 
sulphate to  completely  discharge  the  iodine  tint,  the  bromine  solution  must  be  diluted  in  the  proportion 
of  20  to  25.2.  Thus,  if  850  Cc.  of  it  are  remaining,  they  must  be  diluted  with  "water  to  measure 
1071  Cc. 

After  the  solution  is  thus  diluted,  a new  trial  should  be  made  in  the  manner  above  described,  in 
which  25  Cc.  of  the  decinormal  sodium  thiosulphate  solution  should  exactly  discharge  the  tint  of  the 
iodine  liberated  by  the  bromine  set  free  from  the  25  Cc.  of  bromine  solution. 

Keep  the  solution  in  dark  amber-colored,  glass-stoppered  bottles. 

One  Cubic  Centimeter  of  Decinormal  Bromine  Solution  is  the  equivalent  of: 

Gramme. 

Bromine,  Br 0.007976 

Carbolic  Acid,  CeHsOH 0.001563 

The  following  article  is  tested  with  this  solution  : Acidum  Carbolicum. 

Normal  Hydrochloric  Acid. 

HC1  = 36.37.  36.37  Gm.  in  1 Liter. 

Mix  130  Cc.  of  hydrochloric  acid  of  specific  gravity  1.163  with  enough  water  to  make  it  measure,  at 
or  near  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  1000  Cc.  Of  this  liquid  (which  is  still  too  concentrated)  carefully  measure  10  Cc. 

110 


Gramme. 

0.03464 

0.03685 

0.00500 


1746 


APPENDIX. 


into  a flask,  add  a few  drops  of  phenolphtalein  test-solution,  and  gradually  add,  from  a burette  nothin™ 
hydroxide  solution  until  the  red  tint  produced  by  it  no  longer  disappears  on  vigorous  shaking  but  k 
not  deeper  than  pale  pink.  INote  the  number  of  Cc.  of  potassium  hydroxide  solution  consumed  and 

neutrailzfeach  otherS°  Utl°n  S°  ^ eq“al  volumes  of  this  and  of  the  Potassium  hydroxide  solution 

• EX,A^PLE-TAsfUfnillg  ^at  10  Cc-  of  tlie  acid  solution  first  prepared  required  exactly  11  Cc  of  untnc 
sium  hydroxide  solution,  each  10  Cc.  of  the  former  must  be  diluted  to  11  Cc.,  or  the  whofe  of  the  remain 
mg  acid  solution  m the  same  proportion.  Thus,  if  950  Cc.  are  remaining,  95  Cc.  of  water  must  be  added 
P?  /Sf  llqU-ld  ls  thus  diluted  a new  trial  should  be  made  in  the  manner  above  described  in  which 
50  Cc.  of  the  acid  solution  should  require  for  neutralization  exactly  50  Cc.  of  potassium  hydrox  de 
solution.  If  necessary,  a new  adjustment  should  then  be  made  to  render  the  correspondence  perfect 


One  Cubic  Centimeter  of  Normal  Hydrochloric  Acid  is  the  equivalent  of: 

Hydrochloric  Acid,  alsolute,  HC1 

hydr?cMoric  acid  is  iu  every  respect  equivalent  in  neutralizing  power  to  normal 
sulphuric  acid,  and  may  be  employed,  if  more  convenient,  for  the  same  purposes. 


Decinormal  Iodine  Volumetric  Solution,  U.  S. 


I = 126.53. 


12.653  Gm.  in  1 Liter. 

no nDr?0lJe  12f53  °f  p}\re  iodin1e  (see  below)  in  a solution  of  18  Gm.  of  pure  potassium  iodide  in 

900  Cc.  of  v >ater  Then  add  enough  water  to  make  the  solution  measure,  at  or  near  15°  C.  (59  F ) 
pface 1000  GC  Transfer  the  s°iution  to  small,  glass-stoppered  vials,  which  should  be  kept  in  a dark 


Preparation  of  Pure  Iodine—  Heat  powdered  iodine  in  a porcelain  dish  placed  over  a boiling  water- 
bath,  and  stir  it  constantly  with  a glass  rod,  so  that  the  adhering  moisture,  together  with  any  cyanogen 
iodide  and  most  of  the  iodine  bromide  and  chloride  that  may  be  present  may  be  vaporized.  After 
twenty  minutes  transfer  the  iodine  to  a porcelain  or  other  non-metallic  mortar,  and  triturate  it  with 
about  o Per  cent,  of  its  weight  of  pure,  dry  potassium  iodide,  so  as  to  decompose  any  remaining  iodine 
bromide  and  chloride.  Then  return  the  mass  to  the  dish,  cover  it  with  a clean  glass  funnel,  and  heat 
cool  place  n & sand'badb>  Detach  the  sublimed,  pure  iodine,  and  keep  it  in  well-stoppered  bottles  in  a 


One  Cubic  Centimeter  of  Decinormal  Iodine  Solution  is  the  equivalent  of: 

Iodine,  I 

Arsenic  Trioxide  (arsenous  acid),  AS2O3 

Potassium  Sulphite,  crystallized,  K2SO3  + 2H20 ' ’ ' ’ 

Sodium  Bisulphite,  NaHS03  

Sodium  Thiosulphate  (Hyposulphite),  crystals,  Na2S263  + 5H26  . . . . . 

Sodium  Sulphite,  crystallized,  Na2S03  + 7H20 

Sulphur  Dioxide,  S02 

Antimony  and  Potassium  Tartrate,  cryst.,  2K(SbO)C4H466  + H20 


Gramme. 

0.012653 

0.004942 

0.009692  ! 

0.005193 

0.024764 

0.012579  t 

0.003195 

0.016560 


The  following  articles  are  tested  with  this  solution : Acidum  Arsenosum,  Acidum  Sulphurosum,  Antimonii 
et  Potassn  Tartras  (cryst.),  Liquor  Acidi  Arsenosi,  Liquor  Potassii  Arsenitis,  Sodii  Bisulphis,  Sodii 
Thiosulphas  (Hyposulphis),  Sodii  Sulphis. 


Decinormal  Mercuric  Potassium  Iodide  Volumetric  Solution,  U.  S. 

[Mayer’s  Solution.] 

Hgl2  + 2KI  = 783.98.  39.2  Gm.  in  1 Liter. 

Dissolve  13  546  Gm.  of  pure  mercuric  chloride  in  600  Cc.  of  water,  and  49.8  Gm.  of  pure  potassium  S 
iodide  m 100  Cc.  of  water.  Mix  the  two  solutions,  and  then  add  enough  water  to  make  the  mixture  > 
measure,  at  or  near  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  exactly  1000  Cc. 

One  Cubic  Centimeter  of  Decinormal  Mercuric  Potassium  Iodide  Solution  is  the  equivalent  of: 

Mercuric  Potassium  Iodide,  Hgl2  + 2KI  . . G0.0392 


Normal  Oxalic  Acid  Volumetric  Solution,  U.  S. 

H2C204  + 2H20  = 125.7  62.85  Gm.  in  1 Liter. 

Dissolve  62.85  Gm.  of  pure  oxalic  acid  (see  below)  in  enough  water  to  make,  at  or  near  15°  C.  (59  F.), 
exactly  1000  Cc. 

. Pure  Oxalic  Acid,  crystallized,  is  in  form  of  colorless,  transparent,  clinorhombic  crystals  which,  on 
ignition  upon  platinum-foil,  leave  no  residue.  1 part  of  it  is  completely  soluble  in  14  parts  of  water 
at  15  G.  (59  I .).  Oxalic  acid  which  leaves  a residue  on  ignition,  or  on  solution  in  water,  must  be  puri- 
fied, which  may  be  done  as  follows : To  1 part  of  the  acid  add  10  parts  of  cold  water,  and  shake  until 
the  latter  is  saturated,  filter  off  the  solution  from  the  undissolved  crystals,  evaporate  the  filtrate  to 
about  three-fourths  of  its  volume,  and  set  it  aside  so  that  the  fixed  salts  which  it  contains  may  crys- 
tallize out.  Carefully  decant  the  liquid  from  the  crystals,  concentrate  it  by  evaporation,  and  set  it  aside 
to  crystallize,  stirring  occasionally  to  prevent  the  formation  of  large  crystals  which  might  enclose  moist- 
ure. Drain  the  crystals  in  a funnel,  dry  them  carefully  on  blotting-paper,  and  preserve  them  in  well- 
stoppered  bottles. 

Note.  Normal  oxalic  acid  volumetric  solution  is  in  every  respect  equivalent  in  neutralizing  power 
to  normal  sulphuric  acid  or  normal  hydrochloric  acid , and  may  be  employed,  if  more  convenient,  for  the 
same  purposes.  The  solution,  however,  has  a tendency  to  crystallize  at  the  point  of  the  burette. 


LIST  OF  REA  GENTS  AND  TESTS . 


1747 


One  Cubic  Centimeter  of  Normal  Oxalic  Acid  Solution  is  the  equivalent  of : 


Gramme. 

Oxalic  Acid,  crystallized,  H2C2O4  -f  2H2O 0.06285 

Ammonia  Gas,  NH3  0.01701 

Sodium  Hydroxide,  NaOH 0.03996 

Potassium  Hydroxide,  KOH ! 0.05599 

Potassium  Permanganate,  KMnO* 0.03153 


Decinormal  Oxalic  Acid  Volumetric  Solution,  U.  S. 

H2C2O4  + 2H2O  = 125.7.  6.285  Gm.  in  1 Liter. 

Dissolve  6.285  Gm.  of  pure  oxalic  acid  (see  above)  in  enough  water  to  make,  at  or  near  15°  C.  (59° 
F.),  exactly  1000  Cc. 

One  Cubic  Centimeter  of  Decinormal  Oxalic  Acid  Solution  is  the  equivalent  of: 


Gramme. 

Oxalic  Acid,  crystallized,  H2C2O4  + 2HiO ■ . . 0.006285 

Ammonia  Gas,  NH3 0.001701 

Calcium  Hydroxide,  Ca(OH)2  0.003691 

Potassium  Hydroxide,  KOH 0.005599 

Potassium  Permanganate,  KMn04  0.003153 

Sodium  Hydroxide,  NaOH 0.003996 


The  following  articles  are  tested  with  this  solution:  Liquor  Calcis,  Potassii  Iodidum  (alkalinity),  Potassii 
Permanganas. 

Decinormal  Potassium  Dichromate  Volumetric  Solution,  U.  S. 

K2CF2O7  = 293.78.  14.689  Gm.  in  1 Liter. 

Dissolve  14.689  Gm.  of  pure  potassium  dichromate  (see  below)  in  enough  water  to  make,  at  or  near 
15°  C.  (59°  F.),  exactly  1000  Cc. 

Pure  Potassium  Dichromate  for  use  in  volumetric  analysis,  besides  responding  to  the  tests  given  by  the 
Pharmacopeia  (see  page  0000),  must  conform  to  the  following  tests:  In  a solution  of  0.5  Gm.  of  the  salt  in 
10  Cc.  of  water  rendered  acid  by  0.5  Cc.  of  nitric  acid,  no  visible  change  should  be  produced  either  by 
barium  chloride  test-solution  (absence  of  sulphate),  or  by  silver  nitrate  test-solution  (absence  of  chloride). 
In  a mixture  of  10  Cc.  of  the  aqueous  solution  (1  in  20)  with  1 Cc.  of  ammonia-water  no  precipitate 
should  be  produced  by  ammonium  oxalate  test-solution  (absence  of  calcium). 

When  used  with  phenolphtalein  as  indicator  to  neutralize  alkalies,  the  volumetric  solution  of  potas- 
sium dichromate  is  decinormal  when  it  contains  14.689  Gm.  in  1 liter.  It  is  then  the  exact  equivalent 
of  any  decinormal  acid,  corresponding  to  the  amounts  of  alkalies  quoted,  for  instance,  under  Decinormal 
Oxalic  Acid  Solution. 

When  used  as  an  oxidizing  agent  to  convert  ferrous  into  ferric  salts,  or  to  liberate  iodine  from  potas- 
sium iodide,  the  solution  just  mentioned  (containing  14.689  Gm.  in  1 liter)  has  the  effect  of  a ^ volumetric 
solution,  and  a solution  of  one-third  of  this  strength,  containing  4.896  Gm.  in  1 liter,  has  the  value  of  a 
decinormal  solution,  and  is  the  equivalent  of  equal  volumes  of  decinormal  potassium  permanganate 
solution,  or,  in  the  case  of  iodine  liberated  from  potassium  iodide,  it  is  the  equivalent  of  equal  volumes 
of  decinormal  sodium  thiosulphate  solution.  For  titrating  iron  in  ferrous  compounds  it  is  used  in  the 
following'  manner : Introduce  the  aqueous  solution  of  the  ferrous  salt  into  a flask,  and,  if  it  is  not 
already  acid,  render  it  so  with  sulphuric  acid.  Now  add  gradually  decinormal  potassium  dichromate 
solution  from  a burette,  until  a drop  taken  out  upon  a white  surface  no  longer  shows  a blue  color  with  a 
drop  of  freshly  prepared  potassium  ferrieyanide  test-solution. 

Decinormal  potassium  dichromate  solution  may  also  be  used  in  conjunction  with  potassium  iodide 
(from  which  it  liberates  iodine)  and  sulphuric  acid  for  adjusting  the  titer  of  sodium  thiosulphate  (hypo- 
sulphite) solution,  and,  by  its  means,  that  of  the  iodine  solution. 

One  Cubic  Centimeter  of  Decinormal  Potassium  Dichromate  Solution  is  the  equivalent  of: 


Gramme. 

Potassium  Dichromate,  K2O2O7 0.014689 

Iron,  in  ferrous  compounds 0.016764 

Ferrous  Carbonate,  FeC03  . . 0.034719 

Ferrous  Sulphate,  anhydrous,  FeSCh 0.045510 

Ferrous  Sulphate,  crystallized.  FeSCh  + 7H2O 0.083226 

Ferrous  Sulphate,  dried,  2FeS04  + 3H2O 0.053592 

Barium  Hydroxide,  Ba(OH)2  0.008541 

Iodine,  I 0.037959 

Potassium  Hydroxide,  KOH 0.005599 

Sodium  Thiosulphate  (Hyposulphite),  Na2S203  +5H2O 0.074292 


The  following  articles  may  be  tested  with  this  solution:  Ferri  Carbonas  Saccharatus,  Ferri  Sulphas,  Ferri 
Sulphas  Granulatus. 


Normal  Potassium  Hydroxide  Volumetric  Solution,  U.  S. 

KOH  = 55.99.  55.99  Gm.  in  1 Liter. 

Dissolve  75  Gm.  of  potassium  hydroxide  [Potassa,  U.  S.  P.]  in  enough  water  to  make,  at  or  near  15° 
C.  (59°  F.),  about  1050  Cc.,  and  fill  a burette  with  a portion  of  this  liquid. 

Put  0.6285  Gm.  of  pure  oxalic  acid  into  a flask  of  the  capacity  of  about  100  Cc.,  and  dissolve  it  with 
about  10  Cc.  of  water.  Add  a few  drops  of  phenolphtalein  test-solution,  and  then  carefully  add,  from 
the  burette,  the  potassium  hydroxide  solution,  frequently  agitating  the  flask,  and  regulating  the  flow  to 
drops  toward  the  end  of  the  operation,  until  the  red  color  produced  by  its  influx  no  longer  disappears  on 
shaking,  but  is  not  deeper  than  pale  pink.  Note  the  number  of  Cc.  of  the  potassium  hydroxide  solution 
consumed,  and  then  dilute  the  remainder  of  the  solution,  so  that  exactly  10  Cc.  of  the  diluted  liquid 
shall  be  required  to  neutralize  0.6285  Gm.  of  oxalic  acid. 


1748 


APPENDIX 


Example. — Assuming  that  8.0  Cc.  of  the  stronger  solution  of  potassium  hydroxide  first  prepared 
had  been  consumed  in  the  trial,  then  each  8.0  Cc.  must  be  diluted  to  10  Cc.,  or  the  whole  of  the  remain- 
ing solution  in  the  same  proportion.  Thus,  if  1000  Cc.  should  be  still  remaining,  this  must  be  diluted 
with  water  to  1250  Cc. 

After  the  liquid  is  thus  diluted  a new  trial  should  be  made  in  the  manner  above  described,  in  which 
10  Cc.  of  the  diluted  solution  should  exactly  .neutralize  0.6285  Gm.  of  oxalic  acid.  If  necessary,  a new 
adjustment  should  then  be  made  to  render  the  correspondence  perfect. 

Note. — Solutions  of  caustic  alkalies  are  very  prone  to  absorb  carbon  dioxide  from  the  atmosphere 
and  thereby  become  liable  to  occasion  errors  when  used  with  litmus  test-solution  or  phenolphtaleiu 
test-solution  as  indicator  (methyl-orange  test-solution  is  not  affected  by  the  presence  of  carbonic  acid). 
Hence  the  volumetric  solutions  should  be  preserved  in  small  vials  provided  with  well-fitting  corks  or 
rubber  stoppers,  or,  better  still,  they  should  have  tubes  filled  with  a mixture  of  soda  and  lime  attached 
to  their  stoppers,  so  as  to  absorb  the  carbon  dioxide  and  prevent  its  access  to  the  solution. 

In  place  of  potassium  hydroxide  solution  sodium  hydroxide  solution  may  be  used  in  the  same  manner 
and  in  the  same  quantity.  Potassium  hydroxide  solution,  however,  is  preferable,  since  it  foams  less 
and  attacks  glass  more  slowly  and  less  energetically. 

One  Cubic  Centimeter  of  Normal  Potassium  Hydroxide  Solution  is  the  equivalent  of: 


Gramme. 

Potassium  Hydroxide,  KOH 0.05599 

Sodium  Hydroxide,  NaOH 0.03996 

Ammonia  Gas,  NH3 0.01701 

Ammonium  Chloride,  NH4CI 0.05338 

Acetic  Acid,  absolute,  HC2H3O2 0.05986 

Citric  Acid,  crystallized,  H3C6H5O7  + H20  0.06983 

Hydrobromic  Acid,  absolute,  HBr 0.08076 

Hydrochloric  Acid,  absolute,  HC1  0.03637 

Hydriodic  Acid,  absolute,  HI 0.12753 

Hypophosphorous  Acid,  HPH2O2 0.06588 

Lactic  Acid,  absolute,  HC3H5O3 0.08989 

Nitric  Acid,  absolute,  HNO3 0.06289 

Oxalic  Acid,  crystallized,  H2C2O4  + 2H20  0.06285 

Phosphoric  Acid,  H3PO4  (to  form  K2HPO4  ; with  phenolphtalein) 0.0489 

Phosphoric  Acid,  H3PO4  (to  form  KH2PO4  ; with  methyl-orange) 0.0978 

Potassium  Dichromate,  K2Cr20v 0.14689 

Sulphuric  Acid,  absolute,  H2SO4 0.04891 

Tartaric  Acid,  crystallized,  H2C4H4O6 0.07482 


The  following  articles  are  tested  with  this  solution : Acidum  Aceticum,  Acidum  Aceticum  Dilutum, 
Acidum  Aceticum  Glaciale,  Acidum  Citricum,  Acidum  Hydrobromicum  Dilutum,  Acidum  Hydroclilor- 
icum,  Acidum  Hydrochloricum  Dilutum,  Acidum  Hypophosphorosum  Dilutum,  Acidum  Lacticum, 
Acidum  Nitricum,  Acidum  Nitricum  Dilutum,  Acidum  Phosphoricum,  Acidum  Phosphoricum  Dilutum, 
Acidum  Sulphuricum,  Acidum  Sulphuricum  Aromaticum,  Acidum  Sulphuricum  Dilutum.  Acidum  Tar- 
taricum,  Vinurn  Album,  Yinum  Rubrum. 

Centinormal  Potassium  Hydroxide  Volumetric  Soluion,  U.  S. 

KOH  = 55.99.  0.5599  Gm.  in  1 Liter. 

Dilute  10  Cc.  of  normal  potassium  hydroxide  volumetric  solution  with  enough  distilled  water  to 
make  1000  Cc. 

One  Cubic  Centimeter  of  Centinormal  Potassium  Hydroxide  Solution  is  the  equivalent  of: 

Gramme. 

Potassium  Hydroxide,  KOH 0.0005599 

Sulphuric  Acid,  H2SO4 0.0004891 

Combined  Alkaloids  of  Nux  Vomica 1 ....  0.00364 

Decinormal  Potassium  Permanganate  Volumetric  Solution,  U.  S. 

2KMn04  = 315.34.  3.1534  Gm.2  in  1 Liter. 

1.  Place  3.5  Gm.  of  pure,  crystallized  potassium  permanganate  in  a flask,  add  1000  Cc.  of  boiling  water, 
and  boil  until  the  crystals  are  dissolved.  Close  the  flask  and  set  it  aside  for  two  days,  so  that  any  sus- 
pended matters  may  deposit.  This  is  the  stronger  solution.  Prepare  another,  weaker  solution,  in  the  same 
manner,  using  6.6  Gm.  of  the  salt  and  2200  Cc.  of  water,  and  set  this  also  aside  for  two  days.  After  the 
lapse  of  this  time  pour  off  the  clear  portion  of  each  solution  into  separate  vessels  provided  with  glas6 
stoppers,  and  then  proceed  to  test  each  separately. 

Introduce  into  a flask  10  Cc.  of  decinormal  oxalic  acid  solution,  add  1 Cc.  of  pure,  concentrated  sul- 
phuric acid,  and,  before  this  mixture  cools,  gradually  add  from  a burette  small  quantities  of  the  weaker 
permanganate  solution,  shaking  the  flask  after  each  addition  and  reducing  the  flow  to  drops  toward  the 
end  of  the  operation.  When  the  last  drop  of  the  permanganate  solution  added  is  no  longer  decolorized, 
but  imparts  a pinkish  tint  to  the  liquid,  note  the  number  of  Cc.  consumed,  In  the  same  manner  ascer- 
tain the  titer  of  the  stronger  solution,  and  likewise  note  down  the  number  of  Cc.  of  the  latter  con- 
sumed. Finally  mix  the  two  solutions  in  such  proportions  that  50  Cc.  of  the  mixture  will  exactly  cor- 
respond to  an  equal  volume  of  decinormal  oxalic  acid  solution. 

Note. — To  obtain  the  accurate  proportions  for  mixing  the  two  solutions,  deduct  10  from  the  number 
of  Cc.  of  the  weaker  solution  required  to  decompose  10  Cc.  of  decinormal  oxalic  acid  solution.  With 
this  difference  multiply  the  number  of  Cc.  of  the  stronger  solution  required  for  the  same  purpose.  The 
product  shows  the  number  of  Cc.  of  the  stronger  solution  needed  for  the  mixture. 

1 Assumed  to  consist  of  equal  partsof  strychnine  and  brucine.  Centinormal  potassium  hydroxide  solution  (in 
place  of  which  centinormal  sodium  hydroxide  solution,  prepared  in  the  same  manner,  may  be  employed)  is  used 
in  the  assay  of  Extract  of  Nux  Vomica  to  neutralize  the  excess  of  decinormal  sulphuric  acid  employed.  _ . 

2 This  quantity  is  never  directly  weighed,  but  adjusted  either  by  Oxalic  Acid  or  by  Iron;  in  calculations  it  is 
often  abbreviated. 


LIST  OF  REAGENTS  AND  TESTS. 


1749 


Next  deduct  the  number  of  Cc.  of  the  stronger  solution  required  to  decompose  10  Cc.  of  decinormal 
oxalic  acid  solution  from  10,  and  with  the  difference  multiply  the  number  of  Cc.  of  the  weaker  solution 
required  for  the  same  purpose.  The  product  shows  the  number  of  Cc.  of  the  weaker  solution  needed  for 
the  mixture. 

Or,  designating  by  S the  number  of  Cc.  of  the  stronger  solution,  and  by  W the  number  of  Cc.  of  the 
weaker  solution  required  to  decompose  10  Cc.  of  decinormal  oxalic  acid  solution,  the  following  formula 
will  give  the  proportions  in  which  the  solutions  must  be  mixed  : 

Stronger  Solution : Weaker  Solution  : 

(W  - 10)  S + (10  - S)  w 

Example. — Assuming  that  9 Cc.  of  the  stronger  (S)  and  10.5  of  the  weaker  (W)  solution  had  been 
required,  then,  substituting  these  values  in  the  above-given  formula,  we  obtain : 

(10.5-10)9+  (10-9)  10.5 
or,  4.5  + 10.5 

making  15  Cc.  of  final  solution. 

The  bulk  of  the  two  solutions  is  now  mixed  in  the  same  proportion,  450  Cc.  of  the  stronger  and  1050 
Cc.  of  the  •weaker,  or  900  Cc.  of  the  stronger  and  2100  Cc.  of  the  weaker  solution. 

After  the  mixture  is  thus  prepared,  a new  trial  should  be  made,  when  10  Cc.  of  the  solution  should 
exactly  decompose  10  Cc.  of  the  decinormal  oxalic  acid  solution.  If  necessary,  a new  adjustment 
should  be  made  to  render  the  correspondence  perfect. 

This  solution  should  he  kept  in  small,  dark -amber-colored  and  glass-stoppered  bottles  (or  in  bottles 
provided  with  tubes,  especially  designed  for  the  purpose).  Thus  prepared,  this  solution  will  hold  its 
titer  for  months ; yet  it  should  be  tested  occasionally,  and,  when  it  is  found  reduced,  the  liquid  should 
be  brought  back  to  normal  strength  by  the  addition  of  such  an  amount  of  the  stronger  solution  as  may 
be  determined  in  the  manner  above  described. 

II.  When  potassium  permanganate  solution  is  to  be  prepared  for  immediate  use,  this  may  be  done  in  the 
following  manner : Dissolve  3.5  Gm.  of  pure,  crystallized  potassium  permanganate  in  1000  Cc.  of  pure 
water,  recently  boiled  and  cooled.  Introduce  10  Cc.  of  decinormal  oxalic  acid  solution  into  a beaker, 
add  1 Cc.  of  pure  concentrated  sulphuric  acid,  and  proceed  as  directed  above  for  the  weaker  perman- 
ganate solution.  Note  the  number  of  Cc.  of  the  solution  consumed,  and  then  dilute  the  remainder  with 
pure  water  recently  boiled  and  cooled,  until  50  Cc.  will  exactly  correspond  to  50  Cc.  of  decinormal  oxalic 
acid  solution. 

Example. — Assuming  that  9.1  Cc.  of  the  permanganate  solution  first  prepared  had  been  required  to 
produce  a permanent  pink  tint,  then  every  9.1  Cc.  of  the  solution  must  be  diluted  to  10  Cc.,  or  the  whole 
of  the  remaining  solution  in  the  same  proportion.  A new  trial  should  then  be  made  to  verify  the 
agreement. 

Note. — Potassium  permanganate  solution  thus  prepared  is  liable  to  deteriorate  more  readily  and 
quickly  than  that  prepared  by  the  preceding  method. 

One  Cubic  Centimeter  of  Decinormal  Potassium  Permanganate  Solution  is  the  equivalent  of: 


Gramme. 

Potassium  Permanganate,  KMnCh  0.0031534 

Barium  Dioxide,  Ba02  0.008441 

Calcium  Hypophosphite,  Ca(PH202)2  0.0021209 

Ferric  Hypophosphite,  Fe2(PH202)6  0.0020877 

Iron,  in  ferrous  compounds,  Fe 0.005588 

Ferrous  Carbonate,  FeCC>3 0.011573 

Ferrous  Oxide,  FeO 0.007195 

Ferrous  Sulphate,  anhydrous,  FeS04 0.015170 

Ferrous  Sulphate,  crystals,  FeS04  + 7H20  0.027742 

Ferrous  Sulphate,  dried,  2FeS04  + 3H2O 0.017864 

Hydrogen  Dioxide,  H2O2 0.001696 

Hypophosphorous  Acid,  HPH202  0.001647 

Oxalic  Acid,  crystallized,  H2C2O4  + 2H2O 0.006285 

Oxygen,  O . 0.000798 

Potassium  Hypophosphite,  KPH202  . . 0.002598 

Sodium  Hypophosphite,  NaPH202  + H2O 0.002646 


The  following  articles  are  tested  with  this  solution : Acidum  Hypophosphorosum  Dilutum,  Aqua  Hydro- 
genii Dioxidi,  Barii  Dioxidum,  Calcii  Hypophosphis,  Ferri  Carbonas  Saccharatus,  Ferri  Hypophosphis, 
Ferri  Sulphas,  Ferri  Sulphas  Granulatus,  Ferrum  Eeductum,  Potassii  Hypophosphis,  Sodii  Hypo- 
phosphis. 

Centinormal  Potassium  Permanganate  Volumetric  Solution,  U.  S. 

2KMn04  = 315.34.  0.31534  Gm.  in  1 Liter. 

Dilute  10  Cc.  of  the  decinormal  potassium  permanganate  solution,  after  having  ascertained  that  it 
possesses  its  exact  titer,  with  enough  distilled  water,  strictly  complying  with  the  tests  given  in  the  text 
of  the  Pharmacopoeia  for  Aqua  Destillata , to  make  100  Cc. 

This  solution  should  be  freshly  made  when  required. 

One  Cubic  Centimeter  of  Centinormal  Potassium  Permanganate  Solution  is  the  equivalent  of: 


Gramme. 

Potassium  Permanganate,  KM11O4 0.00031534 

Oxalic  Acid,  crystallized,  H2C2O4  + 2H2O 0.0006285 

Oxygen  (derived  from  the  permanganate)  available  for  oxidation 0.0000798 

Decinormal  Potassium  Sulphocyanate  Volumetric  Solution,  U.  S. 

[Volhard’s  Solution.] 

KSCN  = 96.99.  9.699  Gm.  in  1 Liter. 


Dissolve  10  Gm.  of  crystals  of  pure  potassium  sulphocyanate  in  1000  Cc.  of  water.  This  solution  is 
yet  too  concentrated,  and  has  to  be  adjusted  so  as  to  correspond  in  strength  exactly  with  decinormal 


1750 


APPENDIX. 


silver  nitrate  solution.  For  this  purpose,  introduce  into  a flask  10  Cc.  of  decinormal  silver  nitrate  solu- 
tion, together  with  0.5  Cc.  of  ferric  ammonium  sulphate  test-solution  and  5 Cc.  of  diluted  nitric  acid.  To 
this  mixture  add,  from  a burette,  in  small  portions  at  a time,  the  sulphocyanate  solution.  At  first  a 
white  precipitate  of  silver  sulphocyanate  appears,  then  every  drop  falling  from  the  burette  is  surrounded 
by  a deep  brownish-red  color  of  ferric  sulphocyanate,  which  disappears  on  vigorous  shaking  of  the  flask 
as  long  as  any  of  the  silver  nitrate  remains  unchanged.  When  all  the  silver  has  been  converted  into 
sulphocyanate,  a single  additional  drop  of  the  potassium  sulphocyanate  solution  produces  a brownish- 
red  color  which  no  longer  disappears  on  shaking,  but  communicates  a perceptible  pale  brownish  or  red- 
dish tint  to  the  contents  of  the  flask.  Note  the  number  of  Cc.  of  the  potassium  sulphocyanate  solution 
used,  and  dilute  the  whole  of  the  remaining  solution  so  that  equal  volumes  of  this  and  of  the  deci- 
normal silver  nitrate  solution  will  be  required  to  produce  the  permanent  brownish  or  reddish  tint. 
(The  same  depth  of  pale  brownish  or  reddish  tint  to  which  the  volumetric  solution  is  adjusted  must  be 
attained  when  the  solution  is  used  for  volumetric  assays.) 

After  the  dilution,  a new  trial  should  be  made,  in  which  50  Cc.  of  decinormal  silver  nitrate  solution, 
2.5  Cc.  of  ferric  ammonium  sulphate  test-solution,  and  25  Cc.  of  diluted  nitric  acid  are  used,  and  there 
should  be  required  exactly  50  Cc.  of  the  sulphocyanate  solution  to  produce  the  same  depth  of  a perma- 
nent pale  brownish  or  reddish  tint.  If  necessary,  a new  adjustment  should  be  made,  to  render  the 
correspondence  perfect. 

One  Cubic  Centimeter  of  Decinormal  Potassium  Sulphocyanate  Solution  is  the  equivalent  of: 


Gramme. 

Potassium  Sulphocyanate,  KSCN 0.009699 

Silver,  Ag 0.010766 

Silver  Nitrate,  AgNOs 0.016955 


The  following  articles  are  tested  ivitli  this  solution  : Ferri  Iodidum  Saccharatum,  Syrupus  Ferri  Iodidi. 

Decinormal  Silver  Nitrate  Volumetric  Solution,  U.  S. 

AgNOs  = 169.55.  16.955  Gm.  in  1 Liter. 

Dissolve  16.955  Gm.  of  pure  silver  nitrate  in  enough  water  to  make,  at  or  near  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  exactly 
1000  Cc.  Keep  the  solution  in  small,  dark-amber-colored,  glass-stoppered  vials,  carefully  protected 
against  the  access  of  dust. 

Note. — Titration  by  decinormal  silver  nitrate  solution  may  be  managed  in  various  ways,  adapted  to 
the  special  preparation  to  be  tested : 

a.  In  most  cases  it  is  directed  by  the  U.  S.  P.  to  be  used  in  presence  of  a small  quantity  of  potassium 
chromate  test-solution,  which  serves  to  indicate  the  end  of  the  reaction  by  the  appearance  of  the  red 
color  of  silver  chromate. 

b.  In  some  cases  (potassium  cyanide,  hydrocyanic  acid)  it  is  added  until  the  first  appearance  of  a 
permanent  precipitate. 

c.  It  may  be  used  in  all  cases  without  indicator  by  observing  the  exact  point  when  no  further  pre- 
cipitate occurs.  This  may  be  practised  in  the  case  of  ferrous  iodide,  where  the  addition  of  potassium 
chromate  would  be  improper,  but  it  consumes  much  time  in  waiting  for  the  precipitate  to  subside  so  as 
to  render  the  liquid  sufficiently  clear  to  recognize  whether  a further  precipitate  is  produced  by  addition 
of  the  silver  solution. 

d.  It  may  be  added  in  definite  amount,  known  to  be  in  excess  of  the  quantity  required,  and  the 
excess  of  the  decinormal  silver  solution  measured  back  by  the  addition  of  decinormal  potassium  sul- 
phocyanate solution  (residual  titration). 

One  Cubic  Centimeter  of  Decinormal  Silver  Nitrate  Solution  is  the  equivalent  of: 


Gramme. 

Silver  Nitrate,  AgNOs 0.016955 

Ammonium  Bromide,  NELBr 0.009777 

Ammonium  Chloride,  NH4CI 0.005338 

Calcium  Bromide,  CaBr2  0.0099715 

Ferrous  Bromide,  FeBr-2  0.010770 

Ferrous  Iodide,  FeL>  0.015447 

Hydrocyanic  Acid,  absolute,  HCN,  with  indicator 0.002698 

Hydrocyanic  Acid,  absolute,  HCN,  to  first  formation  of  precipitate 0.005396 

Hydriodic  Acid,  HI 0.012753 

Hydrobromic  Acid,  HBr  0.008076 

Lithium  Bromide,  LiBr 0.008677 

Potassium  Bromide,  KBr 0.011879 

Potassium  Chloride,  KCI  0.007440 

Potassium  Cyanide,  KCN,  with  indicator 0.006501 

Potassium  Cyanide,  KCN,  to  the  first  formation  of  precipitate  . • 0.013002 

Potassium  Iodide,  KI 0.016556 

Potassium  Sulphocyanate,  KSCN 0.009699 

Sodium  Bromide,  NaBr 0.010276 

Sodium  Chloride,  NaCl 0.005837 

Sodium  Iodide,  Nal 0.014953 

Strontium  Bromide,  SrBr2  (anhydrous) 0.012341 

Strontium  Iodide,  SrL  (anhydrous) 0.017018 

Zinc  Bromide,  ZnBr2 0.011231 

Zinc  Chloride,  ZnCL 0.006792 

Zinc  Iodide,  ZnL 0.015908 


The  following  articles  are  tested  with  this  solution : Acidum  Hydrocyanicum  Dilutum,  Ammonii  Bromi- 
dum,  Calcii  Bromidum,  Ferri  Iodidum  Saccharatum,  Lithii  Bromidum,  Potassii  Bromidum,  Potassii 
Cyanidum  (to  first  precip.),  Potassii  Iodidum,  Sodii  Bromidum,  Sodii  Chloridum,  Sodii  Iodidum, 
Strontii  Bromidum  (dry),  Strontii  Iodidum  (dry),  Syrupus  Acidi  Hydriodici,  Syrupus  Ferri  Iodidi, 
Zinci  Bromidum,  Zinci  Chloridum,  Zinci  Iodidum. 


LIST  OF  REA  GENTS  AND  TESTS. 


1751 


Decinormal  Sodium  Chloride  Volumetric  Solution,  U.  S. 

NaCl  = 58.37.  5.837  Gm.  in  1 Liter. 

Dissolve  5.837  Gm.  of  pure  sodium  chloride  in  enough  water  to  make,  at  or  near  15°  C.  (59°  F.), 
exactly  1000  Cc. 

Pure  Sodium  Chloride  may  be  prepared  by  passing  a current  of  dry  hydrochloric  acid  gas  into  a satu- 
rated aqueous  solution  of  the  purest  commercial  sodium  chloride,  separating  the  crystalline  precipitate, 
and  drying  it  at  a temperature  sufficiently  high  to  expel  all  traces  of  free  acid.  In  place  of  this,  trans- 
parent crystals  of  pure  rock-salt  may  be  employed. 


One  Cubic  Centimeter  of  Decinormal  Sodium  Chloride  Solution  is  the  equivalent  of: 


Gramme. 

Sodium  Chloride,  NaCl 0.005837 

Silver,  Ag  0.010766 

Silver  Nitrate,  AgNOs 0.016955 

Silver  Oxide,  Ag20  0.011564 


The  following  articles  are  tested  with  this  solution : Argenti  Nitras,  Argenti  Nitras  Dilutus,  Argenti 
Nitras  Fusus. 

Normal  Sodium  Hydroxide  Volumetric  Solution,  U.  S. 

NaOH  = 39.96.  39.96  Gm.  in  1 Liter. 

Dissolve  54  Gm.  of  sodium  hydroxide  (Soda,  U.  S.  P.)  in  enough  water  to  make,  at  or  near  15p  C. 
(59°  F.),  about  1050  Cc.,  and  fill  a burette  with  a portion  of  this  liquid. 

Put  0.6285  Gm.  of  pure  oxalic  acid  into  a flask  of  the  capacity  of  about  100  Cc.,  and  dissolve  it  with 
about  10  Cc.  of  water.  Add  a few  drops  of  phenolphtalein  test-solution,  and  then  carefully  add  from  the 
burette  the  sodium  hydroxide  solution,  frequently  agitating  the  flask  and  regulating  the  flow  to  drops 
toward  the  end  of  the  operation,  until  the  red  color  produced  by  its  influx  no  longer  disappears  on  shak- 
ing, but  is  not  deeper  than  pale  pink.  Note  the  number  of  Cc.  of  the  sodium  hydroxide  solution  con- 
sumed, and  then  dilute  the  remainder  of  it  so  that  exactly  10  Cc.  of  the  diluted  liquid  will  be  required 
to  neutralize  0.6285  Gm.  of  oxalic  acid. 

Example. — Assuming  that  7.8  Cc.  of  the  stronger  solution  of  sodium  hydroxide  first  prepared  had 
been  consumed  in  the  trial,  then  each  7.8  Cc.  must  be  diluted  to  10  Cc.,  or  the  whole  of  the  remaining 
solution  in  the  same  proportion.  Thus,  if  980  Cc.  should  be  still  remaining,  this  must  be  diluted  with 
water  to  1258  Cc. 

After  the  liquid  is  thus  diluted  a new  trial  should  be  made  in  the  manner  above  described,  in  which 
10  Cc.  of  the  diluted  solution  should  exactly  neutralize  0.6285  Gm.  of  oxalic  acid.  If  necessary,  a new 
adjustment  should  then  be  made  to  render  the  correspondence  perfect. 

Note. — The  same  precautions  should  be  taken  for  protecting  this  solution  from  the  carbon  dioxide 
of  the  air  as  are  prescribed  for  normal  potassium  hydroxide  solution. 

This  solution  may  be  employed  in  place  of  the  normal  potassium  hydroxide  solution,  volume  for 
volume. 


Decinormal  Sodium  Thiosulphate  (Hyposulphite)  Volumetric  Solution,  U.  S. 

Na2S203.5H20  =247.64.  24.764  Gm.  in  1 Liter. 

Dissolve  30  Gm.  of  selected  crystals  of  sodium  thiosulphate  (sodium  hyposulphite)  in  enough  water 
to  make,  at  or  near  15°  C.  ^59°  F.),  1100  Cc.  Of  this  solution  transfer  10  Cc.  into  a flask,  add  a few  drops 
of  starch  test-solution,  and  then  gradually  add  from  a burette  decinormal  iodine  solution  in  small  por- 
tions at  a time,  shaking  the  flask  after  each  addition,  and  regulating  the  flow  to  drops  toward  the  end 
of  the  operation.  As  soon  as  the  color  produced  by  the  influx  of  the  iodine  solution  no  longer  dis- 
appears on  shaking,  but  is  not  deeper  than  very  pale  blue,  note  the  number  of  Cc.  of  the  iodine  solution 
consumed.  Then  dilute  the  sodium  thiosulphate  solution  so  that  equal  volumes  of  it  and  of  decinormal 
iodine  solution  will  exactly  correspond  to  each  other  under  the  conditions  mentioned  above. 

Example. — Assuming  that  10  Cc.  of  the  stronger  sodium  thiosulphate  solution  first  prepared  had 
required  10.7  Cc.  of  decinormal  iodine  solution  to  produce  a faint  reaction  with  starch,  the  thiosulphate 
solution  must  be  diluted  in  the  proportion  of  10  Cc.  to  10.7  Cc.,  or  1000  Cc.  to  1070  Cc. 

After  the  solution  is  thus  diluted  a new  trial  should  be  made  in  the  manner  above  described,  in  which 
50  Cc.  of  the  decinormal  sodium  thiosulphate  solution  should  require  exactly  50  Cc.  of  decinormal  iodine 
solution  to  produce  a faint  reaction  with  starch.  If  necessary,  a new  adjustment  should  then  be  made 
to  render  the  correspondence  perfect. 

Keep  the  solution  in  small,  dark -amber-colored,  glass-stoppered  bottles,  carefully  protected  against 
the  access  of  dust. 

Note. — When  this  solution  is  to  be  used,  fill  a burette  with  it,  place  the  liquid  to  be  tested  either  for 
the  free  iodine  it  already  contains  or  for  that  which  it  liberates  from  an  excess  of  potassium  iodide  added 
to  it  into  a flask,  and  gradually  add  small  portions  of  the  solution  from  the  burette,  shaking  after  each 
addition,  and  regulating  the  flow  to  drops  toward  the  end  of  the  operation  until  the  brown  color  of  the 
iodine  has  nearly  disappeared.  Now  add  a few  drops  of  starch  test-solution,  which  will  produce  a 
blue  color,  and  then  continue  to  add  the  thiosulphate  solution  in  drops  until  the  blue  tint  is  exactly 
discharged. 

One  Cubic  Centimeter  of  Decinormal  Sodium  Thiosulphate  Solution  is  the  equivalent  of: 


Gramme. 

Sodium  Thiosulphate  (Hyposulphite),  Na2S203  + 5H20  0.024764 

Bromine,  Br 0.007976 

Chlorine,  Cl 0.003537 

Iodine.  I 0.012653 

Iron,  Fe,  in  ferric  salts 0.005588 


The  following  articles  are  tested  with  this  solution  : Aqua  Chlori,  Calx  Chlorata,  Ferri  Cliloridum,  Ferri 
Citras,  Ferri  et  Ammonii  Citras,  Ferri  et  Ammonii  Sulphas,  Ferri  et  Ammonii  Tartras,  Ferri  et  Potassii 
Tartras,  Ferri  et  Quininse  Citras,  Ferri  et  Quininge  Citras  Solubilis,  Ferri  et  Strychninse  Citras,  Ferri 
Phosphas  Solubilis,  Ferri  Pyrophosphas  Solubilis,  Ferri  Valerianas,  Ferrum  Reductum,  Iodum,  Liquor 


1752 


APPENDIX. 


Ferri  Acetatis,  Liquor  Ferri  Chloridi,  Liquor  Ferri  Citratis,  Liquor  Ferri  Nitratis,  Liquor  Ferri  Sub- 
sulphatis,  Liquor  Ferri  Tersulphatis,  Liquor  Iodi  Compositus,  Liquor  Sodse  Chlorat®,  Tinctura  Ferri 
Chloridi,  Tinctura  Iodi. 

Normal  Sulphuric  Acid. 

H2SO4  = 97.82.  48.91  Gm.  in  1 Liter. 

Carefully  mix  30  Cc.  of  pure,  concentrated  sulphuric  acid  (of  specific  gravity  1.835)  with  enough 
water  to  make  about  1050  Cc.,  and  allow  the  liquid  to  cool  to  about  15°  C.  (59°  F.).  Place  10  Cc.  of  this 
liquid  (which  is  yet  too  concentrated)  into  a flask,  add  a few  drops  of  phenolphtalein  test-solution,  and 
afterward,  from  a burette,  normal  potassium  hydroxide  solution,  shaking  after  each  addition,  and  regu- 
lating the  flow  to  drops  toward  the  end  of  the  operation,  until  the  red  color  produced  by  its  influx  no 
longer  disappears  on  shaking,  but  is  not  deeper  than  pale  pink.  Note  the  number  of  Cc.  of  potassium 
hydroxide  solution  consumed.  Then  dilute  the  sulphuric  acid  solution  so  that  equal  volumes  of  this 
and  of  normal  potassium  hydroxide  solution  exactly  neutralize  each  other. 

Example. — Assuming  that  10  Cc.  of  the  acid  solution  first  prepared  had  required  exactly  11.2  Cc.  of 
normal  potassium  hydroxide  solution,  each  10  Cc.  of  the  former  must  be  diluted  to  11.2  Cc.,  or  each  1000 
Cc.  to  1120  Cc.  After  the  liquid  is  thus  diluted  a new  trial  should  be  made  in  the  manner  above 
described,  in  which  50  Cc.  of  the  acid  solution  should  require  for  neutralization  exactly  50  Cc.  of  potas- 
sium hydroxide  solution.  If  necessary,  a new  adjustment  should  be  made  to  render  the  correspondence 
perfect. 

Note. — It  is  recommended  that  in  alkalimetric  determinations,  when  an  acid  of  normal  strength  is 
required,  normal  sulphuric  acid  be  employed  in  place  of  normal  oxalic  acid  solution. 


One  Cubic  Centimeter  of  Normal  Sulphuric  Acid  is  the  equivalent  of: 

Gramme. 


Sulphuric  Acid,  absolute,  H2SO4 0.04891 

Ammonia  Gas,  NH3 0.01701 

Ammonium  Carbonate,  (NPL^COs 0.042935 

Ammonium  Carbonate  [U.  S.  P.],  NH4HCO3.NH4NH2CO2 0.05226 

Lead  Acetate,  crystallized,  Pb(C2H302)2  + 3H2O 0.18900 

Lead  Subacetate,  assumed  as  Pb20(C2H302)2  0.13662 

Lithium  Benzoate,  LiC7H502  (to  be  ignited) 0.12772 

Lithium  Carbonate,  Li2C03  0.036935 

Lithium  Citrate,  LisCeHsCb  (to  be  ignited)  . . • 0.0698566 

Lithium  Salicylate,  LICtELOs  (to  be  ignited) 0.14368 

Potassium  Acetate,  KC2H3O2  (to  be  ignited) 0.09789 

Potassium  Bicarbonate,  KHCO3  . . . . 0.09988 

Potassium  Bitartrate,  KHC4H4O6  (to  be  ignited) 0.18767 

Potassium  Carbonate,  anhydrous,  K2CO3 0.068955 

Potassium  Citrate,  crystallized,  K3C6H5O7  + H2O  (to  be  ignited) 0.10786 

Potassium  Hydroxide,  KOH 0.05599 

Potassium  and  Sodium  Tartrate,  KNaC4H4C>6  + 4H2O  (to  be  ignited) 0.14075 

Sodium  Acetate,  NaC2H3(>2  -f  3H2O  (to  be  ignited) 0.13574 

Sodium  Benzoate,  NaC7Hs02  (to  be  ignited) 0.14371 

Sodium  Bicarbonate,  NaHC03  0.08385 

Sodium  Borate,  crystallized,  Na2B4(>7  + IOH2O 0.19046 

Sodium  Carbonate,  anhydrous,  Na2CC>3  0.052925 

Sodium  Carbonate,  crystallized,  Na2C03  + IOH2O 0.142725 

Sodium  Hydroxide,  NaOH 0.03996 

Strontium  Lactate,  Sr(C3H503)2  (to  be  ignited) 0.13244 


The  following  articles  are  tested  with  this  solution : Ammonii  Carbonas ; Aqua  Ammonia ; Aqua  Ammoni® 
Fortior ; Liquor  Plumbi  Subacetatis ; Liquor  Potass®  ; Liquor  Sod®  ; Lithii  Benzoas,  after  ignition ; 
Lithii  Carbonas ; Lithii  Citras,  after  ignition  ; Lithii  Salicylas,  after  ignition  ; Potassa ; Potassa  Ac  etas, 
after  ignition  ; Potassii  Bicarbonas  ; Potassii  Bitartras,  after  ignition ; Potassii  Carbonas  ; Potassii  Citras, 
after  ignition  ; Potassii  et  Sodii  Tartras,  after  ignition  ; Soda ; Sodii  Acetas,  after  ignition  ; Sodii  Ben- 
zoas, after  ignition  ; Sodii  Bicarbonas  ; Sodii  Carbonas,  anhydrous ; Sodii  Carbonas  Exsiccatus ; Spiritus 
Ammoni® ; Strontii  Lactas,  after  ignition. 

Decinormal  Sulphuric  Acid,  U.  S. 

H2SO4  = 97.82.  4.891  Gm.  in  1 Liter. 

Dilute  10  Cc.  of  normal  sulphuric  acid  with  enough  water  to  make  100  Cc. 

One  Cubic  Centimeter  of  Decinormal  Sulphuric  Acid  is  the  equivalent  of: 

Gramme. 

Sulphuric  Acid,  absolute,  H2SO4 0.004891 

Combined  Alkaloids  of  Nux  Vomica,  assumed  to  consist  of  equal  parts  of  Strychnine 

and  Brucine 0.0364 

Potassium  Hydroxide,  KOH 0.005599 

The  folloiving  article  is  tested  with  this  solution  : Extractum  Nucis  Vomic®. 


4.  Gasometric  Estimations. 

In  certain  cases  the  Pharmacopoeia  directs  the  strength  of  a product  or  chemical  substance  to  be 
determined  by  the  volume  of  some  gas  (nitrogen  dioxide)  given  otf  during  a definite  reaction.  This 
volume  is  to  be  determined  by  the  nitrometer  in  the  following  manner  : 

Arrange  a nitrometer  consisting  of  a measuring  tube  (graduated  for  at  least  50  Cc.)  and  con- 
nected by  stout  rubber  tubing  with  an  open  equilibrium-tube  (both  tubes,  preferably,  provided 
with  a globular  expansion  near  the  lower  end)  in  such  a manner,  by  suitable  clamps  attached  to 


LIST  OF  REA  GENTS  AND  TESTS. 


1753 


a stand,  that  either  tube  may  be  readily  and  quickly  clamped  at  a higher  or  lower  level.  The  stopcock 
of  the  measuring  tube  having  been  opened,  and  the  open  equilibrium-tube  having  been  raised  to  a 
higher  level,  pour  into  the  latter  a saturated  aqueous  solution  of  sodium  chloride  until  the  measuring 
tube,  including  the  bore  of  the  stopcock,  is  completely  filled.  Then  close  the  latter  and  fix  the 
equilibrium-tube  at  a low  level.  Having  ascertained  that  the  stopcock  is  closed  air-tight,  and  having, 
if  necessary,  wfiped  out  the  graduated  funnel-tube  of  the  nitrometer,  introduce  into  it  the  prescribed 
quantity  of  the  liquid  to  be  tested,  and  allow  this  to  flow  slowly  into  the  measuring  tube,  being  careful 
not  to  admit  any  air.  Follow  it  by  the  prescribed  quantities  of  the  several  reagents  (potassium  iodide 
test-solution  and  normal  sulphuric  acid).  When  the  reaction,  which  takes  place  at  once,  moderates, 
remove  the  measuring  tube  from  its  clamp,  and,  being  careful  to  hold  it  constantly  so  that  the 
liquid  contained  in  it  stands  at  a higher  level  than  that  in  the  equilibrium-tube,  shake  its  contents, 
without  permitting  any  gas  to  pass  into  the  open  tube.  When  the  reaction  has  completely  ceased 
restore  the  tube  to  its  fastening,  and  allow  the  apparatus  and  contents  to  acquire  the  ordinary  tempera- 
ture of  the  room,  which  is  assumed  to  be  at  or  about  25°  C.  (77°  F.).  Then  adjust  the  two  tubes  so 
that  the  liquid  columns  are  exactly  the  same  level,  and  read  off  the  volume  of  gas  in  the  measuring 
tube.  Multiply  this  figure  by  the  weight  of  the  substance  yielding  1 Cc.  of  nitrogen  dioxide  (see 
below).  The  result  will  be  the  weight  of  the  pure  substance  (nitrite)  contained  in  the  amount  taken 
for  the  assay. 

For  pharmacopoeial  purposes  the  determination  will  be  sufficiently  exact  if  the  evolved  gas  be  meas- 
ured at  or  near  25°  C.  (77°  F.).  If  it  be  desired  to  ascertain  the  volume  which  the  gas  would  occupy  at 
auy  other  temperature  between  0°  C.  and  40°  C.  (32°-104°  F.),  this  may  be  done  with  the  aid  of  the 
table  below  printed. 

Example. — Assuming  that  the  volume  of  gas  read  otf  was  44.5  Cc.  at  27°  C.  (80.6°  F.),  and  that  it 
he  desired  to  ascertain  the  corresponding  volume  at  0°  C.  (32°  F.),  barometric  pressure  not  being  taken 
into  consideration,  then  the  44.5  Cc.  must  be  reduced  in  the  proportion  of  1.098901  to  1 ; or  44.5  must 
be  divided  by  1.098901.  The  result  will  be  40.5  Cc. 

The  following  table  shows  the  expansion  which  1 Cc.  of  a gas  will  undergo  when  it  is  raised  from 
•0°  C.  (32°  F.)  to  40°  C.  (104°  F.) : 


Expansion  of  1 Cc.  of  a Gas  between  0°  and  40°  C. 


°c. 

Cc. 

°c. 

Cc. 

°c. 

Cc. 

0 

1.000000 

14 

1.051282 

28 

1.102564 

1 

1.003663 

15 

1.054945 

29 

1.106227 

2 

1.007326 

16 

1.058608 

30 

1.109890 

3 

1.010989 

17 

1.062271 

31 

1.113553 

4 

1.014652 

18 

1.065934 

32 

1.117216 

5 

1.018315 

19 

1.069597 

33 

1.120879 

6 

1.021978 

20 

1.073260 

34 

1.124542 

7 

1.025641 

21 

1.076923 

35 

1.128205 

8 

1.029304 

22 

1.080586 

36 

1.131868 

9 

1.032967 

23 

1.084249 

37 

1.135531 

10 

1.036630 

24 

1.087912 

38 

1.139194 

11 

1.040293 

25 

1.091575 

39 

1.142857 

12 

1.043956 

26 

1.095238 

40 

1.146520 

13 

1.047619 

27 

1.098901 

Estimation  of  Nitrogen  Dioxide. 


NO  — 29.97 ; 1 Liter 


f at  0°  C.  and  760  Mm.  - 1.3423  Gm. 
1 at  25°  C.  and  760  Mm.  = 1.2297  Gm. 


One  Cubic  Centimeter  of  Nitrogen  Dioxide  is  the  equivalent  of: 


Nitrogen  Dioxide,  NO  . 
Amyl  Nitrite,  C5H11NO2 
Ethyl  Nitrite,  C2H5NO2 
Sodium  Nitrite,  NaN02 


At  0°  C.  and  760  Mm. 
Gramme. 

. . 0.0013423 
. . 0.0052305 
. . 0.0033529 
. . 0.0030873 


At  25°  C.  and  760  Mm. 
Gramme. 

0.0012297 

0.0047923 

0.0030716 

0.0028283 


The  following  articles  are  tested  gasometrically  by  the  volume  of  Nitrogen  Dioxide  evolved  and  measured  at 
or  near  25°  C.  {77°  F.) : Amyl  Nitris,  Sodii  Nitris,  Spiritus  ^Etheris  Nitrosi. 


1754 


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APPENDIX. 


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7.76 

87.03 

4^:39 

22.35 

210.09 

123.81 

1 i 

S 

p 

! 

SSl3*Sg&[gggi§£ 

1 

GO 

6 

295.98 

90.93 

254.62 
282.42 

15.69 

175.91 

242.08 

359.62 
19.98 

187-76 

110.65 

§* 

a 

| 

p 

Isssssssssss 

1 

GO 

il22llsil§| 

° 

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1 

a 

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126.15 

38.75 

108.51 

139.75 

7.76 

87.04 

119.79 

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111.37 

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p 

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318.17 

97.75 

273.71 

267.22 
14.85 

166.48 

229.10 

374.50 

20.81 

195.53 

115.22 

8? 

1909.04 

586.52 

1642.25 

1603.68 

89.09 

998.86 

1374.59 

2247.00 

124.83 

1173.17 

691.35 

05 

> 

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35.55 

99.53 
97.19 

5.40 

60.54 
83.31 

136.18 

7.57 

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41.90 

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P 

147.09 

45.19 

126.53 

157.35 

8.74 

98.01 

134.87 

305.72 

16.98 

159.62 

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Product. 

191.45 

58.81 

164.68 

160.81 

8.93 

100.16 

137.84 

225.32 

12.52 

117.64 

69.32 

* 

00 

ARSENOUS. 

~ 1 

238.89 

73.40 

205.48 

234.44 

13.02 
146.03 
200.95 
292.57 

16.25 

152,75 

90.02 

Product 

232.89 

71.55 

200.35 

195.64 

10.87 

121.86 

167.69 

274.12 
15.22 

143.12 
84.34 

1 

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265.44 

81.55 

228.35 

343.38 

19.08 

213.88 

294.33 

323.67 

17.98 

168.99 

99.59 

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2 

p 

133.63 

41.05 

114.95 

112.25 

6.24 

69.92 

96.22 

157.28 

8.82 

82.12 

48.39 

'$  001 

8 

166.19 

51.05 

142.95 

173.38 

9.63 

107.99 

148.61 

267.51 

15.00 

139.67 

82.31 

Product. 

p 

gisliiJlsl 

O 

a 

H* 

O 

a 

0 

187.08 

57.48 

160.94 

190.95 
10.61 

118.93 

163.67 

231.44 

12.86 

120.84 

71.21 

Product. 

w 

a 

0 

b 

p 

2®OOo8S5S(W§5WCTi 

g 

g 

RMSSslieS 

SSSKCX&SSSie 

'$  01 

O 

w 

§ 

a 

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102.14 

31.38 

87.87 

119.59 

6.64 

74.49 

102.51 

131.46 

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40.45 

Product. 

Q 

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p 

l> 

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Table  showing  the  Quantity  of  Official  Acids  required  to  Saturate  100  Parts  of  an  Official  Alkali,  together 


1758 


APPENDIX. 


Tables  Showing  the  Quantity  of  Official  Alkalies  and  Acids 
Required  to  make  100  Parts  of  the  Corresponding  Salts. 
AMMONIUM  SALTS. 


Parts  of  Alkali  Required. 


AMMONIUM  salts. 

Ammonium 

Ammonia- 

Ammonia- 

Parts  of  Acid  Required. 

Carbonate, 

water, 

water, 

Parts. 

100  $. 

10  Jt 

28  i. 

Of  Percent. 

( 

216.31 

Acetic  Acid  . 

. 36 

Ammonium  Acetate,  NH4C2H302  . 

67.99 

221.28 

79.03< 

1297.86 

“ “ Diluted  . . . . 

. 36 

l 

78.65 

“ “ Glacial 

. 99 

Arsenite  (Meta),  NH4As02  . . 

41.86 

136.27 

48.67 

80.14 

Arsenous  Acid 

Benzoate,  NH4C7H502  ... 

37.67 

122.62 

43.79 

87.74 

Benzoic  Acid 

. 100 

“ 

Bromide,  NH4Br 

53.45 

173.98 

62.13 

826.02 

Hydrobromic  Acid,  Diluted 

. 10 

“ 

Chloride,  NH4C1 

97.90 

318.66 

113.81 1 

213.59 

681.34 

Hydrochloric  Acid 

“ Diluted 

. 31.9 
. 10 

Citrate,  (NH4)3C6H507  .... 

60.17 

195.87 

69.95  1 

80.41 

Citric  Acid . . , 

. 100 

U 

Lactate,  NH4C3H503  

48.93 

159.27 

56.88 

112.10 

Lactic  Acid 

(( 

Nitrate,  NH4N03 

65.41 

212.89 

76.03 1 

115.75 

787.11 

Nitric  Acid 

“ “ Diluted  . . . . 

. 68 

. 10 

u 

Phosphate,  (NH4)2HP04  . . . 

79.28 

258.08 

92.17 1 

87.28 

741.92 

Phosphoric  Acid 

“ “ Diluted  . , 

. 85 
. 10 

it 

Salicylate,  NH4C7H503  .... 

33.79 

109.97 

39.27  1 

89.00 

Salicylic  Acid 

. 100 

“ 

Sulphate,  (NH4)2S04 

79.27 

258.04 

92.16 1 

80.21 

741.96 

Sulphuric  Acid 

“ “ Diluted  . . . 

. 92.5 
. 10 

Tartrate,  (NH4)2C4H406  . . . 

56.90 

185.23 

66.15  L 

81.48 

Tartaric  Acid 

, 100 

POTASSIUM  SALTS. 


POTASSIUM  SALTS. 

Parts  of  Alkali  Required. 

Potassa, 
90  <fo. 

1 Solution 
of  Potassa, 
5 J. 

Potassium 
Bicarbon- 
ate, 100  j. 

Potassium 

Carbonate, 

95  <f„. 

Parts. 

Parts  of  Acid  Required. 

Potassium  Acetate,  KC2H302  . 

“ Arsenite  (Meta),  KAs02  . 
“ Benzoate,  KC7H502-|-3H20 
“ Bromide,  KBr 

“ Chloride,  KC1 

“ Citrate,  K3C6H607+H20  . 
“ Lactate,  KC3Hs03  .... 

“ Nitrate,  KN03 

“ Phosphate,  K2HP04  . . . 
“ Salicylate,  KC7H603  . . . 

“ Sulphate,  K2S04 

“ Tartrate,  2K2C4H406+H20 

63.55 

42.66 
29.12 
52.37 

83.62 

57.68 

48.67 

61.64 

71.56 
35.41 
71.55 
52.02 

1143.93 

767.78 

524.20 

942.67 

1505.11 

1038.17 

876.08 

1109.59 

1288.16 

637.34 

1288.01 

954.32 

102.03 

68.48 

46.76 

84.08 

134.25 

92.60 

78.14 

98.97 

114.90 

56.85 

114.88 

85.12 

74.14-f 

49.76  ^ 
33.97 
61.10 

97.55  j 

67.29  1 
56.78 

71.92 1 

83.49  { 

83.48 1 
61.85  1 

169.86 

1019.17 

61.77 

68.59 

56.97 

679.85 

153.24 

488.84 

64.74 

93.66 

91.64 

623.17 

66.18 

562.52 

78.36 

60.82 

562.57 

63.76 

Of  Percent. 

Acetic  Acid 36 

“ “ Diluted  ....  6 

“ “ Glacial  ....  99 

Arsenous  Acid 98.8 

Benzoic  Acid 100 

Hydrobromic  Acid , Diluted  10 
Hydrochloric  Acid  ....  31.9 
“ “ Diluted  10 

Citric  Acid 100 

Lactic  Acid 75 

Nitric  Acid 68 

“ “ Diluted  . . , . 10 

Phosphoric  Acid 85 

“ “ Diluted  . 10 

Salicylic  Acid 100 

Sulphuric  Acid 92.5 

“ “ Diluted . . 10 

'Tartaric  Acid 100 

SODIUM  SALTS. 


Parts  of  Alkali  Required. 

SODIUM  SALTS. 

Soda, 
90  1. 

Solution 

Sodium 

Sodium 

of  Soda, 

Bicarbon- 

Carbonate, 

Parts. 

5 $. 

ate,  98.6  </c. 

98.9  jf. 

f 

122.50 

Sodium  Acetate,  NaC2H302+3H20  . 

32.71 

588.77 

62.65 

106.31k 

734.98 

♦ ( 

44.54 

“ Arsenite  (Meta),  NaAs02  . . . 

34.18 

615.24 

65.47 

111.09 

77.01 

“ Benzoate,  NaC7H502  

30.90 

556.12 

59.17 

100.42 

84.69 

“ Bromide,  NaBr 

43.21 

777.73 

82.76 

140.43 

785.91 

“ Chloride,  NaCl 

76.07 

1369.20 

145.69 

247.23  { 

195.33 

623.09 

“ Citrate,  2Na3C6H607+llH20  . 

37.38 

666.71 

71.60 

121.50  1 

58.80 

“ Lactate,  NaC3H603  

39.72 

714.91 

76.07 

129.09 

107.09 

“ Nitrate,  NaN03 

52.30 

941.45 

100.18 

169.99 1 

108.95 

740.84 

“ Phosphate,  Na2HP04+12H20 

24.29 

447.33 

47.60 

80.77 1 

32.20 

273.70 

“ Salicylate,  NaC7Hs03  .... 

27.81 

500.53 

53.26 

90.38  1 

86.22 

“ Sulphate,  Na2S04+10H20  . . 

27.63 

497.29 

52.92 

89.79 1 

32.90 

304.34 

“ Tartrate,  Na2C4H406+2H20  . 

38.68 

696.29 

74.09 

125.73  1 

65.19 

Parts  of  Acid  Required. 


Of  Percent. 

Acetic  Acid 36 

“ “ Diluted ....  6 

“ “ Glacial  . . .99 

Arsenous  Acid  98.8 

Benzoic  Acid 100 

Hydrobromic  Acid,  Diluted  10 
Hydrochloric  Acid  ....  31.9 
“ “ Diluted  10 

Citric  Acid 100 

Lactic  Acid 75 

i Nitric  Acid 68 

I “ “ Diluted  ....  10 


Phosphoric  Acid  ...  85 
“ “ Diluted  . 10 

Salicylic  Acid 100 

Sulphuric  Acid 92.5 

“ “ Diluted  . ■ 10 

Tartaric  Acid 100  _ 


Note.— On  page  1041  will  be  found  complete  Saturation  Tables,  showing  the  quantity  of  official  alkalies 
required  to  saturate  100  parts  of  an  official  acid. 


ELEMENTS.— LIST  OF  FORMULAS  AND  MOLECULAR  WEIGHTS.  1759 


Table  of  Elements. 


The  atomic  weights,  as  determined  by  L.  Meyer  and  K.  Seubert,  are  those  adopted  by  the  U.  S. 
Pharmacopoeia. 


Sym- 
| bols. 

Atomic  value. 

Atomic 

weight. 

|| 

Sym- 

bols. 

Atomic  value. 

Atomic 
; weight. 

Aluminum  . . . 

A1 

Ill 

27.04 

Mercury  (Hydrar 

Antimony  (Stib- 

gyrum)  .... 

Hg 

II 

199.8 

ium) 

Sb 

III,  V 

119.6 

| Molybdenum  . . 

Mo 

II,  IV,  VI 

95.9 

Arsenic 

As 

III,  V 

74.9 

Nickel 

Ni 

II,  VI 

58.6 

Barium 

Ba 

II,  IV 

136.9 

Nitrogen  .... 

N 

I,  III,  V 

14.01 

Beryllium  (Glu- 

Osmium  .... 

Os 

II,  IV,  VI,  VIII 

190.3 

cinum)  .... 

Be 

II 

9.03 

Oxygen  .... 

O 

II 

15.96 

Bismuth  .... 

Bi 

III,  V 

208.9 

Palladium  . . . 

Pd 

II,  IV 

106.35 

Boron 

B 

III 

10.9 

Phosphorus  . . . 

P 

III,  V 

30.96 

Bromine  .... 

Br 

I,  III,  V,  VII 

79.76 

Platinum  .... 

Pt 

II,  IV 

194.3 

Cadmium  .... 

Cd 

11 

111.5 

Potassium  (Kali- 

Caesium  .... 

Cs 

I 

132.7 

um)  . . . 

K 

1 

39.03 

Calcium  .... 

Ca 

II 

39.91 

Rhodium  .... 

Rh 

II,  III,  IV 

102.9 

Carbon  

C 

II,  IV 

11.97 

Rubidium  . . . 

Rb 

I 

85.2 

Cerium 

Ce  ! 

III,  IV 

139.9 

Ruthenium  . . . 

Ru 

II,  IV,  VI,  VIII 

101.4 

Chlorine  . . . . | 

Cl  I 

I,  III,  V,  VII 

35.37 

Samarium  . . . 

Sm 

III 

149.62 

Chromium  . . . 

Cr  | 

III,  VI 

52.0 

Scandium  .... 

Sc 

III 

43.97 

Cobalt ! 

Co 

II,  III,  VI 

58.6 

Selenium  .... 

Se 

II,  IV,  VI 

78.87 

Columbium  (Nio-  1 

Silicium  .... 

Si 

IV 

28.3 

bium)  .... 

Cb 

III,  V 

93.7 

Silver  (Argentum) 

Ag 

I 

107.66 

Copper  (Cuprum) 

Cu 

I,  II 

63.18 

Sodium  (Natrium) 

Na 

I 

23.0 

Didvmium  . . . 

D 

III 

142.0 

Strontium  . . . 

Sr 

II,  IV 

87.3 

Erbium  .... 

Eb 

III 

166.0 

Sulphur  .... 

S 

II,  IV,  VI 

31.98 

Fluorine  .... 

F 

I 

19.0 

Tantalum  .... 

Ta 

V 

182.0 

Gallium  .... 

Ga 

III 

69.9 

Tellurium.  . . . 

Te 

II,  IV,  VI 

125.0 

Germanium  . . . 

Ge 

II,  IV 

72.3 

Terbium  .... 

Tb 

III 

159.1 

Gold  (Aurum) . . 

Au 

I,  III 

196.7 

Thallium  .... 

T1 

I,  III 

203.7 

Hydrogen  . . . 

H 

I 

1.0 

Thorium  .... 

Th 

IV 

231.9 

Indium 

In 

III 

113.6 

Tin  (Stannum)  . 

Sn 

II,  IV 

118.8 

Iodine 

I 

I,  III,  V,  VII 

126.53 

Titanium  .... 

Ti 

IV 

48.0 

Iridium  .... 

Ir 

II,  IV,  VI 

192.5 

Tungsten  or  Wolf- 

Iron (Ferrum) . . 

Fe 

II,  III,  VI 

55.88 

ram  

W 

II,  IV,  VI 

183.6 

Lanthanum  . . 

La 

111 

138.2 

Uranium  .... 

U 

IV,  VI 

238.8 

Lead  (Plumbum) 

Pb  | 

II,  IV 

206.4 

Vanadium  . . . 

V 

III,  V 

51.1 

Lithium  .... 

Li  i 

I 

7.01 

Ytterbium  . . . 

Yb 

III 

172  6 

Magnesium  . . . 

Mg 

II 

24.3 

Yttrium  .... 

Y 

III 

88.9 

Manganese  . . . ! 

Mn  i 

II,  IV,  VI 

54.8 

Zinc 

Zn 

II 

65.1 

1 

i 

Zirconium  . . 

’ Zr 

IV 

90.4 

In  addition  to  the  above,  the  discovery  of  the  following  elements  has  been  announced,  but  lit- 
tle is  known  of  their  properties:  Actinium  (Ac),  Decipium  (Dp),  Holmium  (Ho),  Ilmenium  (II), 
Lavoesium  (Lv),  Mosandrium  (Mo),  Neptunium  (Np),  Philippium  (Pp),  and  Thulium  (Tu). 


Alphabetical  List  of  Formulas  and  Molecular  Weights  of  the 
Principal  Chemicals  and  Reagents. 


Acetanilid 

Acid,  Acetic 

“ Antimonic 

“ Antimonous 

“ Arsenic  

“ Arsenous.  (See  Arsenic  Trioxide.) 

“ Aurochloric 

“ Benzoic 

“ Boric 

Carbolic .... 

“ Chloroplatinic . 

“ Chromic  (Chromium  Trioxide) 

“ Citric ... 

<!  “ dry 

“ Gallic 

“ “ dry 


C6H5NH.C2H30  . . 
HC2tI302 

H3Sb04 

PI3Sb03 

H3As04 


HAuC14  -f  2H20 
HC7H502  . . . 

h3bo3  .... 
c6h5oh  . . . 
H2PtCl6  4-  6H20 
Cr03 


H3C6H507  4-  H20 
H3CbH507  . . . . 

hc7h5o5  + h2o  . 

HC7H505 


Mol.  Weight. 

. . 134.73 
. . . 59.86 
. . . 186.44 
. . . 170.48 
. . 141.74 

. . 375.10 
. . 121.71 
. . 61.78 
. . 93.78 
. . 516.28 
. . 99.88 
. . 209.50 
. . 191.54 
. . 187.55 
. . 169.59 


1760 


APPENDIX. 


Acid,  Hydriodic 

‘‘  Hydrobromic 

“ Hydrochloric 

“ Hydrocyanic 

“ Hydroferricyanic 

“ Hydroferrocyanic . 

“ Hydrofluoric 

“ Hydrosulphuric.  (See  Hydrogen  Sulphide, 

“ Hypophosphorous 

“ Kinic  

“ Lactic 

“ Meconic  . . . 

“ Metaphosphoric 

“ Molybdic  (crystallized) 

“ Nitric 

“ Nitrous 

‘‘  Oleic 

“ Oxalic  

“ “ dry 

“ Palmitic 

“ Phosphoric 

“ Phosphorous 

“ Picric 

“ Pyroboric 

“ Pyrogallic.  (See  Pyrogallol.) 

“ Pyrophosphoric 

“ Salicylic 

“ Silicic 

<e  Stearic 

“ Succinic 

“ Sulphuric 

“ Sulphurous  ...  

“ Tannic 

“ Tartaric 

“ Tetraboric  (Pyroboric) 

“ Tungstic  (crystallized) 

“ Uric 

“ Valerianic 

Alcohol,  amylic 

“ ethylic  

“ methylic 

Aldehyde,  benzoic 

“ ethylic 

Alum.  (See  Aluminum  and  Potassium  Sulphate. 

Aluminum  Hydroxide  (Hydrate) 

“ and  Ammonium  Sulphate 

“ “ Potassium  Sulphate 

“ “ “ “ dry  .... 

“ Sulphate 

“ “ dry  

Ammonia  

Ammonium  Acetate 

“ Arsenite  (Metarsenite) 

“ Benzoate 

“ Bromide  

“ Carbonate  (normal) 

“ “ (U.  S.  P.) 

“ Chloride 

“ Citrate 

“ Iodide  

“ Lactate 

“ Molybdate 

“ Nitrate 

“ Oxalate 

“ “ dry 

“ Phosphate 

“ Salicylate 

“ Sulphate 

u Sul  pliyd  rate 

“ Sulphide 

“ Tartrate 

“ Valerianate 


HI  . . . 
HBr  . . 
HC1  . . 
HCN  . . 
H6Fe2Cy  12 
H4FeCy6 
HF1  . . 
). 


HC7Hn06  . . . 
HC3H503  • • • 
c7h4o7  . . . . 
hpo3 

H2Mo04  + H20 

hno3  .... 

HNO, 

HC, 

H2C204  + 2HaO 

h2c204  . . . 


»bl3302 


h3P04 


C6H2(N02)30H 

h2b4o7  . . . . 


h4p2o7 

hc7h5c 

H9SiO, 


h2c4h4o4 
h2so4  . 
h2so3 


h2c4h4o6 

h2b407  

h2wo4  + h2o  .... 

C6H4N403  

hc5h902  

C5HuOH 

C2H5OH 

CH3OH 

c7h60 

c2h4o 

) 

ai2(OH)6 

A12(NH4)2(S04)4  + 24H20 
A12K2(S04)4  + 24H20  - 

A12K2(S04)4 

A12(S04)3  + 16H20.  . . 

A12(S04)3 

NH3 

nh4c2h3o2 


nh4c7h5o2 

NH4Br  

(NH4)2C03 

nh4hco3.nh4nh2co2 


(NH4)3C6H507 


Amyl  Acetate  . 
“ Nitrite  . 


NIi4C3H503  . . . 
(NH4)2Mo04  . . 

nh4no3  .... 

(NH4)2C204  + H20 
(NH4)2C204  . . . 
(NH4)2HP04  . . 
NH4C7H503  . . . 
(NH4)2S04  . . . 

nh4hs 

(NH4),S  .... 

(NH4)2C4H406 . . 

nh4c5h9o2 


,c2h302 


Mol.  Weight. 

■ • 127.53 

• • 80.76 

• • 36.37 

• • . 26.98 
. . 429.52 

• . 215.76 

• • 20.0 

. . . 65.88 

• • • 191.55 
. • • 89.79 
. . . 199.51 

■ • . 79.84 
. . . 179.70 
. . . 62.89 

• • • 46.93 
. • • 281.38 

. . 125.70 
. • . 89.78 
. • . 255.44 
. . . 97.80 
. . . 81.84 
. • • 228.57 
. . 157.32 


177.64 

137.67 
78.18 

283.38 

117.72 
97.82 
81.86 

321.22 

149.64 
157.32 
267.4 

167.77 

101.77 
87.81 

45.90 
31.93 

105.75 

43.90 

155.84 

904.42 
946.46 

515.42 
628.90 

341.54 
17.01 

76.87 

124.83 

138.72 
97.77 

95.87 

156.77 
53.38 

242.57 

144.54 
106.80 

195.76 

79.90 

141.76 
123.80 
131.82 

154.68 

131.84 
50.99 
68.00 

183.66 

118.78 
129.71 

116.78 


LIST  OF  FORMULAS  AND  MOLECULAR  WEIGHTS. 


1761 


Antimony  Oxide  (Trioxide)  .... 
“ and  Potassium  Tartrate  . . 

“ “ _ “ “ dry 

Antimony  Sulphide 

Antipyrine 

Apomorphine  Hvdroehlorate  .... 

Arsenic  Iodide 

‘‘  Trioxide 

Atropine 

“ Sulphate 

Barium  Carbonate 

“ Chloride 

“ “ dry 

“ Dioxide 

“ Hydroxide  (Hydrate)  .... 

“ Nitrate 

Benzene  (Benzol) ... 

Benzoic  Sulphinide 

Bismuth  Carbonate 

“ Citrate 

“ Nitrate  

“ Oxide 

“ Oxychloride 

li  Subcarbonate  (approximately) 

“ Subnitrate  (approximately)  . 

Boron  Trioxide 

Brucine 

“ dry 

Cadmium  Iodide 

“ Sulphate  ....... 

Caffeine 

“ dry 

Calcium  Acetate 

11  Bromide 

“ Carbonate 

“ Chloride 

“ “ dry  

“ Hydroxide  (Hydrate)  . . . 

“ Hypophosphite  ..... 

“ Hypochlorite 

“ Iodide  

“ Oxalate 

“ Oxide 

“ Phosphate 

“ Sulphate  (Gypsum)  .... 

“ dry 

“ Sulphide  (Monosulphide) 

“ Sulphite 

“ Tartrate 

Camphor 

“ Monobromated 

Carbon  Dioxide 

“ Disulphide 

Cerium  Oxalate 

“ “ dry  

Chloral  Hydrate 

“ Anhydrous 

Chloroform  ...  

Chrome  Alum  

Chromium  Sesquioxide 

Cinchonidine 

“ Sulphate 

“ “ dry  

Cinchonine  

“ Sulphate 

“ “ dry 

Cobaltous  Nitrate 

Cocaine  Hydrochlorate 

Codeine 

“ dry 

Coniine 

Cupric  Acetate 

“ basic 

“ Ammonium  Sulphate  .... 

Ill 


Sb203  

2K(Sb0)C4H406  + II 20 

Iv(Sb0)C4H406  . . . . 

Sb.2S3 

C6H5(CH3)2C3HN20  . . 
C17H17N02HC1  . . . . 

AsI3 

As203  

C j 7 H 23N  03 ...... 

(c,7h23no3)2h2so4  . . . 

BaC03 

Bad  2 + 2H20 

BaCl2  ......  . 

Ba02 

Ba(OH)2 

Ba(N03)2 

C6H6  

c6h4coso2nh  . . . . 

Bi2(C03)3 

BiC6H507  

Bi(N03)3 

BiA 

BiOCl 

(Bi0)2C03 

Bi0N03.H20 

b2o3 

^23A6N204  + 4H20  . . 

^23^26-^204 

Cdl2 

CdS04 

C8H10N4O2  -p  h2o  . . . 

C8HI0N4O2 

Ca(C2H302)2  

CaBr2 

CaCOs 

CaCl2  + 6H20 

CaCl2 

Ca(OH)2 

Ca(PH202)‘2  

Ca(C10)2 

Cal2 

CaC204  

CaO 

Ca3(P04)2 

CaS04  + 2H20 

CaS04 

CaS 


CaS03  + 2H20 
CaC4H406  . . 

c10h16o.  . . 

C10H15BrO.  . 

co2  .... 
cs2 


Ce2(C204)3  + 9H20  . 

Ce2(C204)3  

C2HCip  + H20  . . 

C2II013O 

CHC13 

Cr2K2(S04)4  + 24H20 


(C19H22N20)2H2S04  -p  3H2G 
(C19H22N20)2H2S04  .... 


(C19H22N20)2H2S04  -p  2H20 
(C19H22N20)2H2S04  ... 
Co(NO*)2  4-  6H20  . . . . 
C17H2IN04HC1 

cI8h21no3  + h2o  .... 

CiqHoiNOo 


Cu(C2H302)2  + H20  . . 
Cu(C2H302)2Cu0  + 6H20 
Cu(NH3)4S04+H20  . . 


Mol.  Weight. 
. . 287.08 
. . 662.42 
. . 322.23 
. . 335.14 
. . 187.65 
. . 302.79 
. . 454.49 
. . 197.68 
. . . 288.38 
. . . 674.58 
. . . 196.75 
. . . 243.56 
. . 207.64 
. . 168.82 
. . 170.82 
, . . 260.68 
. . . 77.82 
. . 182.66 
. . . 597.35 
. . . 397.44 
. . 394.57 
. . . 465.68 
. . 260.23 
. . 509.57 
. . 304.71 
. . . 69.68 
. . 465.01 
. . . 393.17 
. . 364.56 
, . . 207.32 
. . 211.68 
. . 193.72 
. . 157.63 
. . 199.43 
. . 99.76 
. . . 218.41 
. . . 110.65 
. . . 73.83 
. . 169.67 
. . 142.57 
. . . 292.97 
. . 127.69 
. . . 55.87 
. . 309.33 
. . 171.65 
. . 135.73 
. . 71.89 
. . 155.69 
. . 187.55 
. . 151.66 
. . 230.42 
. . 43.89 
. . 75.93 
. . 704.78 
. . 543.14 
. . 164.97 
, . . 147.01 
. . 119.08 
. . . 996.38 
. . . 151.88 
. . 293.41 
. . 738.52 
. . 684.64 
. . 293.41 
. . 720.56 
. . 684.64 
. . 290.14 
. . 338.71 
. . 316.31 
. . 298.35 
. . 126.77 
. . 198.86 
. . 367.80 
. . 245.00 


1762 


APPENDIX. 


Mol.  Weight. 

Cupric  Oxide CuO 79.14 

“ Sulphate CuS04  + 5H20  248.80 

“ “ dry CuS04  159.00 

“ Tartrate CuC4H406  + 3H20  ....  264.70 

Cuprous  Oxide Cu20  142.32 

Cyanogen (CN  )2 51.96 

Diphenylamine (C6H5)2NH 168.65 

Elaterin C20H28O5 • 347.20 

Ether.  (See  Ethyl  Oxide.) 

Ethyl  Acetate C2H5C2H302  87.80 

“ Nitrite  C2H5N02  74.87 

“ Oxide  (.Ether,  U.  S.  P.) (C2H5)20  73.84 

Eucalyptol C10H,8O 153.66 

Ferric  Acetate Fe2(C2H302)6  464.92 

“ Ammonium  Sulphate Fe2(NH4)2(S04)4  + 24H20  962.10 


dry 


Chloride Fe2Cl6  + 12H20 


Fe2(NH4)2(S04)4  531.06 


539.50 


dry Fe2Cl6  323.98 

Hydroxide  (Hydrate) Fe2(OH)6 213.52 

Hypophosphite  Fe2(PH202)6  501.04 

Nitrate  Fe2(N03)6  483.10 

159.64 

301.36 


Phosphate  (normal,  not  U.  S.  P.)  . . . . Fe2(P04)2 


“ Pyrophosphate  (normal,  not  U.  S.  P.)  . . Fe4(P207)3  744.44 

“ Subsulphate  (variable). 

“ Sulphate Fe2(S04)3  399.22 

“ Valerianate  (variable). 

Ferrous  Bromide FeBr0  . 


Carbonate 
Iodide  . 


FeC03 

Felo 


215.40 

115.73 

308.94 


“ Lactate Fe(C3H603)2 

“ Oxalate FeC204+H20 161.62 

“ Sulphate FeS04  + 7 H20  277.42 

“ “ dry FeS04 151.70 

“ Sulphide FeS 87.86 

Glucose.  (See  Sugar,  Grape.) 

Glycerin C3H5(OH)3  ....  91.79 

Glyceryl  Trinitrate C3H5(N03)"3  226.58 

Gold  Chloride AuCl3  302.81 

Homatropine  Hydrobromate C,6H21N03HBr  355.17 

Hydrastinine  Hydrochlorate C11H11N02HC1  224.97 

Hydrogen  Dioxide  H202  33.92 

“ Sulphide H2S 33.98 

Hyoscine  Hydrobromate C,7H21N04HBr  + 3H20  436.98 


dry 


C,7HOIN04HBr 383.10 


Hyoscyamine  Hydrobromate C17H23N03HBr 369.14 

“ Sulphate (C17H23N03)2H2S04 674.58 

Iodoform  . . . CHI3  . 392.56 

Lead  Acetate Pb(C2H302)2+ 3H20 378.00 

“ “ dry Pb(C2H302)2  324.12 

“ Carbonate  (official) (PbC03j2Pb(0H)2  772.82 

“ “ pure PbC03  266.25 

Iodide  ....  Pbl2  459.46 

“ Nitrate Pb(N03)2  330.18 

“ Oxide PbO  222.36 

“ Subacetate  (approximately) Pb20(C2H302)2  546.48 

Lime.  (See  Calcium  Oxide.) 

Lithium  Benzoate  LiC7H502 127.72 

“ Bromide LiBr 86.77 


Carbonate Li9C0, 


73.87 


“ Citrate Li3C6H507  209.57 

“ Salicylate  LiC7H503  143.68 

Magnesia.  (See  Magnesium  Oxide.) 

Magnesium  Carbonate  (approximately)  . . . . (MgC03)4Mg(0H)2  -f-  5H20 484.62 

“ “ pure MgCo3 ...  84.15 

“ Lactate,  dry Mg(C3H603)2  201.88 

“ Oxide MgO 40.26 

“ Sulphate MgS04  + 7H20  245.84 

dry MgS04  120.12 

“ Sulphite MgSOs  + 6H20 211.92 

Manganese  Dioxide Mn02  86.72 

Manganous  Sulphate MnS04  + 4H20  222.46 

“ “ dry MnS04 150.62 

155.66 


LIST  OF  FORMULAS  AND  MOLECULAR  WEIGHTS. 


1763 


Mercuric  Ammonium  Chloride  .... 

“ Chloride 

“ Cyanide 

“ Iodide  

“ Nitrate 

“ Oxide 

“ Potassium  Iodide 

“ Subsulphate 

“ Sulphate 

“ Sulphide 

Mercurous  Chloride  ....  .... 

“ Iodide  

“ Nitrate 

“ Sulphate 

Methyl  Salicylate 

Molybdenum  Trioxide 

Morphine  

“ dry 

“ Acetate 

“ Hydrochlorate 

“ “ dry  ...... 

“ Sulphate 

“ “ dry  

Naphtalin 

Naphtol 

Narceine 

Narcotine  

Nickel  Bromide 

“ Sulphate 

Nicotine 

Nitrogen  Dioxide 

Nitro-glycerin.  (See  Glyceryl  Trinitrate.) 

Paracyanogen 

Paraldehyde 

Phenacetin 

Phenol.  (See  Acid,  Carbolic.) 

Phosphorus  Oxychloride 

“ Pentachloride 

“ Trichloride 

Physostigmine  Salicylate 

“ Sulphate 

Picrotoxin  

Pilocarpine  Hydrochlorate 

Piperin  

Platini c Chloride 

Potassa.  (See  Potassium  Hydroxide.) 

Potassium  Acetate  . 

“ Arsenite  (Metarsenite)  .... 

“ Benzoate 

“ “ dry 

“ Bicarbonate 

“ Bichromate.  (See  Di chromate.) 

“ Bitartrate 

“ Bromate 

“ Bromide 

“ Carbonate 

Chlorate 

“ Chloride 

“ Chromate 

“ Citrate 

“ “ dry 

“ Cyanide 

Dichromate 

“ Ferricyanide 

“ Ferrocyanide 

“ “ dry  

Hydroxide  (Hydrate)  ... 

Hypophosphite 

“ Iodide  

“ Lactate 

“ Nitrate 

“ Permanganate 

“ Phosphate  

“ Salicylate 


NH2HgCl 

HgCl2 

Hg(CN)2 

Hgl2 

Hg(N03)2 

HgO 

HgI2  + 2KI 

Hg(Hg0)2S04 

HgS04 

HgS 

Hg2Cl2 

Hg2I2 

Hg2(N03)2  + 2H20  . . . . 

Hg2S04 

CH3C7H503  

Mo03 

ci7h19no3  + h2o 

c17h19no3  

C17H19N03C2H402  + 3H20 
C17H19N03HC1  4-  3H20  . . 
C17H19N03HC1  ...... 

(C17H,9N03)2H2S04  -)-  5H.,0 

(c17h19no3)2h2so4  . . . . 

C10H8 

C10H7(OH) 

c23H23N  o9 

^22H23N07 

NiBr2  + 3H20 

NiS04  + 7H20.  ..... 

^10^14^2 

NO  


Mol.  Weight 
. . 251.18 
. . 270.54 
. . 251.76 
. . . 452.86 
. . . 323.58 
. . 215.76 
. . 783.98 
. . 727.14 
, . . 295.62 
. . 231.78 
. . 470.34 
. . 652.66 
. . 559.30 
, . . 495.42 
. . 151.64 
. . 143.78 
. . . 302.34 
. . . 284.38 
. . 398.12 
. . 374.63 
. . . 320.75 
. . 756.38 
. . . 666.58 
. . 127.70 
. . 143.66 
. . . 461.96 
. . 412.07 
, . 272.00 

. . . 280.14 
. . 161.72 
. . . 29.97 


(CN),  . . 
QHl203 

CioHi3N02 


77.94 

131.70 

178.63 


POCl3 153.03 

PC15  207.81 

PC13 137.07 

C15H21N302C7H603  412.17 

(C15H21N302)2H2S04  934.28 

^30^34^13  600.58 

C„H16N202HC1  243.98 

C17H19N03  284.38 

PtCl4  335.78 


KC2H302  97.89 

KAs02  145.85 

KC7H502  + 3HoO .213.62 

KC7H502  . . . . 159.74 

KHC03  99.88 


KHC4H406  . . . 187.67 

KBr03  ...  166.67 

KBr ....  118.79 

K2C03  137.91 

KC103  122.28 

KC1 74.40 

K2Cr04 193.90 

K3C6H607  + H20  323.59 

K3C6H507 305.63 

KCN 65.01 

K2Cr207  293.78 

K6Fe2(CN)I2  657.70 

K4Fe(CN)6  + 3H20  421.76 

K4Fe(CN)6  367.88 

KOH 55.99 

KPH202  103.91 

KI 165.56 

KC3H603  127.82 

KN03  100.92 

KMn04 157.67 

K,HP04  173.86 

KC7H503  175.70 


1764 


APPENDIX. 


Potassium  and  Sodium  Tartrate KNaC4H406  -j-  4H,0  . . . 

“ “ “ “ dry KNaC4H4Ofi  . . 

“ Sulphate K2S04 

“ Sulphite K2S03  + 2H20  

“ “ dry K2S03  . . ' 

Sulphocyanate KSCN 

Tartrate 2K2C4H406  + H20  .... 

. “ dry K2C4H406  

Propenyl  Trinitrate.  (See  Glyceryl  Trinitrate.) 

Pyrogallol C6H3(OH)3 . 

Quinidine  202  

“ Sulphate (C20H24N2O2)2H2SO4  + 2H20 

“ “ dry (C20H24N2O2)2H2SO4  . . . 

Quinine C20H24N2O2  + 3H2O  . . . 

“ dry C20H24N2O2 

“ Bisulphate C20H24N2O2H2SO4  + 7H20  . 

“ “ dry C20H24N2O2H2SO4  .... 

“ Hydrobromate C20H24N2O2HBr  + H20  . . 

“ “ dry  C20H24N2O2HBr 

“ Hydrochlorate C20H24N2O2HCl  -f  2H20  . . 

“ “ dry  C20 

“ Sulphate (C2 


nH, 


7H90 


dry 


tN202)2H2S04 


Valerianate C20H24N2O2C5H10O2  + H20 


Resorcin  C6H4(OH)2 

Saccharin  (Benzoic  Sulphinide) C6H4C0S02NH 

Salicin C13H1807 


Salol 


CrHcGHkOq 


Santonin CicH.oOo 


u 

u 

u 

Soda. 


U 


Silica  (Silicic  Oxide)  Si02 

Silver  Bromide AgBr 

“ Chloride  AgCl 

“ Cyanide  . AgCN 

“ Iodide Agl 

Nitrate AgN03 

Oxide Ag20 

Sulphate Ag2S04 

(See  Sodium  Hydroxide.) 

Sodium  Acetate NaC2Ho09  4-  3H90  . 

“ dry NaC2H302  

Arsenate Na2HAs04  + 7H20 

“ dry Na2HAs04  . . . . 

Arsenite  (Metarsenite) NaAs02 

Benzoate NaC7H502  

Bicarbonate NaHC03 

Bisulphite NaHS03 

Bitartrate NaHC4H406  + H20 

Borate Na2B407  + 10H2O  . 

“ dry Na2B407  

Bromate NaBr03 

Bromide NaBr 

Carbonate Na9CO,  4-  10H9O 


“ dry Na2C03 

Chlorate NaC103 

Chloride NaCl  . 


HoO 


Citrate 2Na3C6H507  + 11H20 

“ dry Na3C6H607  . . . 

Cobaltic  Nitrite Co2(N02)66NaN02 

Hydroxide  (Hydrate) NaOH 

Hypophosphite NaPH202  4-  H20  . . . 

Hyposulphite.  (See  Thiosulphate.) 

Iodide Nal 

Lactate NaC3H503  

Molybdate  Na2Mo04  + H20  .... 

Nitrate NaNOs 

Nitrite NaN02 

Nitro-prusside Na2Fe(NO)(CN)5  + 2H20 

Phosphate Na2HP04  + 12H20  . 

“ dry Na2HP04 

Pyrophosphate Na4P207  + 10H2O  . . . 

“ dry Na4P907  

Salicylate NaC7H503  

Santoninate 2NaC15H,904  + 7H20  . . 

Sulphate Na2S04  + 10H2O  .... 


Mol.  Weight. 

• • . 281.51 
■ . . 209.67 

• • . 173.88 
. . . 193.84 

. 157.92 

• • • 96.99 
. . . 469.36 
. . . 225.70 

. . . 125.70 
- • • 323.34 

• . . 780.42 
. . . 744.50 

• • • 377.22 
. • - 323.34 
. . . 546.88 
. . . 421.16 
. . . 422.06 
. . . 404.10 
. . . 395.63 
. • • 359.71 
. . . 870.22 
. . . 744.50 
. . . 443.07 
. . . 109.74 
. . . 168.65 

. 285.33 
. . 213.49 

. . . 245.43 
. . . 60.22 
. . . 187.42 
. . . 143.03 
. . . 133.64 
. . . 234.19 
. . . 169.55 
. . . 231.28 
. . . 311.14 

. . . 135.74 
. . . 81.86 
. . . 311.46 
. . . 185.74 
. . . 129.82 
. . . 143.71 
. . . 83.85 
. . . 103.86 
. . . 189.60 
. . . 380.92 
. . . 201.32 
. . . 150.64 
. . . 102.76 
. . . 285.45 
. . . 105.85 
. . . 106.25 
. . . 58.37 
. . . 712.64 
. . . 257.54 
. . . 824.32 
. . . 39.96 
. . . 105.84 

. . . 149.53 
. . . 111.79 
. . . 221.70 
. . . 84.89 
. . . 68.93 
. . . 297.67 
. . . 357.32 
. . . 141.80 
. . . 445.24 
. . . 265.64 
. . . 159.67 
. . . 696.50 
. . . 321.42 


LIST  OF  FORMULAS  AND  MOLECULAR  WEIGHTS. 


1765 


Sodium  Sulphate,  dry 


Sulphite 

“ dry  . . 
Sulpliocarbolate 
Tartrate  .... 
Thiosulphate  (Hyposulphite) 


Mol.  Weight. 

. • • Na2S04 141.82 

. . . Na.,S03  + 7H20  251.58 

. . . Na2S03  125.86 

. NaS03C6H4(0H)  + 2H20 231.56 

. . . Na2C4H406  + 21i20  229.56 

. . . Na^Oa  -f  5H20 247.64 

dry.  . . . Na2S203  157.84 

Sparteine  Sulphate C15H26N2H2S04  -f-  4H20 403.23 

“ “ dry C15H26N2H2S04  331.39 

Stannous  Chloride SnCl2  + 2H20  225.46 

Strontium  Bromide SrBr2  -j-  6H20  354.58 

“ “ dry SrBr2  246.82 

“ Carbonate SrC03 147.15 

“ Iodide SrI24-6H20 448.12 

“ “ dry Srl2  340.36 

“ Lactate Sr(C3H503)2  + 3H20 318.76 

“ “ dry Sr(C3H503)2  264.88 

“ Nitrate Sr(NOs)2  + 4H,0  282.92 

Strychnine C21H22N202  333.31 

“ Nitrate  C21H22N202.HN03  396.20 

“ Sulphate (C21H22N202).2H2S04+  5H20  854.24 


dry 


Sugar,  Cane CI2H22On 341.20 

“ Grape C6H1206 179.58 

“ Milk  C12H22On  + H20 359.16 

Sulphonal (CH3)2C(S02C2H5)2 251.53 

Sulphur  Dioxide k),  .....  63.90 

Terebene C)0Hl6 135.70 

Terpin  Hydrate C10H18(OH)2  + H20  189.58 

Thiosinamine CS.N2H3(C3H5) 115.88 

Thymol C10Hl4O  149.66 

Tungsten  Trioxide W03  231.48 

Water H20 17.96 

Zinc  Acetate Zn(C2H302)2  + 2H20 218.74 

“ “ dry Zn(C2H302)2  182.82 

“ Bromide ZnBr2  224.62 

Carbonate  (normal,  not  U.  S.  P.) ZnC03  124.95 

135.84 

318.16 

81.06 

257.22 

286.64 

160.92 

97.08 


Chloride ZnCl2 

Iodide Znl2  .... 

Oxide ZnO  . . . 

Phosphide Zn3P2  . . . . 

Sulphate ZnS04  + 7H20 

“ dry ZnS04  . . . 

Sulphide ZnS 


Valerianate Zn(C5H902)2'+  2H20 302.56 


1766 


APPENDIX. 


Equivalents  of  Weights  and  Measures,  U.  S.  P. 

Customary  and  Metric. 

The  values  given  in  the  following  tables  for  the  relation  of  weight  to  measure  apply  to  water  at 
its  greatest  density  (temperature  4°  C.  or  39.2°  F.)  in  vacuo,  and  for  ordinary  purposes  may  be  used 
without  correction.  If  intended  to  be  applied  to  liquids  having  a higher  or  lower  specific  gravity 
than  water,  the  weight  in  grammes  of  such  liquid  must  be  divided  by  the  specific  gravity  of  the 
liquid  in  order  to  ascertain  the  volume  in  cubic  centimeters  corresponding  to  the  given  weight ; the 
customary  fluid  measure  can  then  be  found  by  reference  to  the  tables.  For  instance,  to  find  the 
volume  in  fiuidounces  of  875  grammes  of  official  alcohol,  divide  875  by  0.820,  which  yields  1067.07 
cubic  centimeters,  and  1067.07  Cc.  of  water  at  4°  C.  equal  36.082  fiuidounces,  for  1000  : 33.814  : : 
1067.07  : x.  x =36.082;  hence  875  Gm.  of  alcohol  U.  S.  P.  measure  practically  36.082  fiuidounces. 


Weights,  customary. 

Metric 
Weight  and 
Measure. 

Gm.]  [Cm. 

I - 

Measures,  customary. 

Grains. 

oz. 

Troy 

grains. 

Avoirdupois 
lbs.  oz.  grains. 

Fluid 

ounces,  minims. 

Fiuidounces 

and 

fractions. 

15432.4 

32 

72.4 

2 

3 

119.9 

1000 

33 

390.6 

33.814 

15360 

32 

2 

3 

47.5 

995.312 

33 

314.5 

33.655 

15061.1 

31 

181.1 

2 

101.1 

975.932 

33 

38 

15046.6 

31 

166.6 

2 

2 

171.6 

975 

32 

464.9 

32.968 

14880 

31 

2 

2 

5 

964.208 

32 

289.7 

32.604 

14660.7 

30 

260.7 

2 

1 

223.2 

950 

32 

59.1 

32.123 

14604.5 

30 

204.5 

2 

1 

167 

946.358 

32 

32 

14400 

30 

2 

400 

933.105 

31 

264.9  ■ 

31.552 

14274.9 

29 

354.9 

2 

274.9 

925 

31 

109.3 

31.278 

14148.2 

29 

228.2 

2 

148.2 

916.785 

31 

31 

14000 

29 

80. 

2 

907.185 

30 

324.2 

30.676 

13920 

29 

. . 

1 

15 

357.5 

902.000 

30 

240 

30.500 

13889.1 

28 

449.1 

1 

15 

326.6 

900 

30 

207.6 

30.432 

13691.8 

28 

251.8 

1 

15 

129.3 

887.211 

30 

30 

13562.5 

28 

122.5 

1 

15 

878.635 

29 

344.1 

29.717 

13503.3 

28 

63.3  | 

1 

14 

378.3 

875 

29 

281.8 

29.587 

13440 

28 

1 

14 

315 

870.898 

29 

215.2 

29.448 

13235.4 

27 

275.4 

1 

14 

10.4 

857.637 

29 

29 

13125 

27 

165 

1 

14 

850.486 

28 

363.9 

28.759 

13117.5 

27 

157.5  | 

1 

13 

430 

850 

28 

356 

28.742 

12960 

27 

1 

13 

272.5 

839.794 

■ 28 

190.4 

28.397 

12779 

26 

299’ 

1 

13 

91.5 

828.064 

28 

28 

12731.7 

26 

251.7 

1 

13 

44.2 

825 

27 

430.3 

27.896 

12687.5 

26 

207.5 

1 

13 

822.136 

27 

383.8 

27.800 

12480 

26 

1 

12 

230 

808.691 

27 

165.6 

27.345 

12345.9  ! 

25 

345.9 

1 

12 

95.9 

800 

27 

24.5 

27.051 

12322.6 

25 

322.6 

1 

12 

72.6 

798.490 

27 

27 

12250 

25 

250 

l 

12 

793.787 

26 

403.7 

26.841 

12000 

25 

1 

11 

187.5 

777.587 

26 

140.7 

26.293 

11960.1 

24 

440.1 

1 

11 

147.6 

775 

26 

98.7 

26.206 

11866.2 

24 

346.2 

1 

11 

53.7 

768.916 

26 

26 

11812.5 

24 

292.5 

1 

11 

765.437 

25 

423.6 

25.883 

11574.3 

24 

54.3 

1 

10 

199 

750 

25 

173 

25.360 

11520 

24 

. . 

1 

10 

145 

746.484 

25 

115.9 

25.241 

11409.8 

23 

369.8 

1 

10 

34.8 

739.343 

25 

25 

11375 

23 

335 

1 

10 

737.087 

24 

443.4 

24.924 

11188.5 

23 

148.5  I 

1 

9 

151 

725 

24 

247.2 

24.515 

11040 

23 

1 

9 

102.5 

715.380 

24 

91.1 

24.190 

10953.4 

22 

393.4 

I 1 

9 

15.9 

709.769 

24 

24 

10937.5 

22 

377.5 

1 

9 

708.738 

23 

463.3 

23.966 

10802.6 

22 

242.6 

1 

8 

302.6 

700 

23 

321.4 

23.670 

10560 

22 

1 

8 

60 

684.277 

23 

66.2 

23.138 

10500 

21 

420 

1 

8 

. . 

680.388 

23 

3.1 

23.007 

10497.0 

21 

417 

I 1 

7 

434.5 

680.195 

23 

23 

10416.8 

21 

336.8 

1 

7 

354.3 

075 

22 

395.7 

22.824 

10080 

21 

! 1 

7 

17.5 

653.173 

22 

41.4 

22.086 

10062.5 

20 

462.5 

1 

7 

652.039 

22 

23.0 

22.048 

10040.6 

20 

440.6 

1 

6 

415.6 

650.621 

22 

22 

10031.0 

20 

431 

1 

6 

406 

650 

21 

469.9 

21.979 

9645.2 

20 

45.2 

1 

6 

20.2 

625 

21 

64.1 

21.134 

9625 

20 

25 

1 

6 

623.689 

21 

42.9 

21.09 

9600 

20 

1 

5 

412.1 

622.070 

21 

16.6 

21.035 

9584.2 

19 

464.2 

1 

5 

396.7 

621.048 

21 

. . 1 

21 

EQUIVALENTS  OF  WEIGHTS  AND  .MEASURES.  1767 


Equivalents  of  Weights  and  Measures. — Continued. 


Weights,  customary. 

Metric 
Weight  and 
Measure. 

Gm.]  [Cm.  I 

Measures,  customary. 

Grains. 

oz. 

Troy 

grains. 

lbs. 

Avoirdupois 
oz.  grains. 

Fluid 

ounces,  minims. 

Fluidounces 

and 

fractions. 

9259.4 

19 

139.4 

1 

5 

71.9 

600 

20 

138.4 

20.288 

9187.5 

19 

67.5 

1 

5 

■ . 

595.340 

20 

62.7  1 

20.131 

9127.8 

19 

7.8 

1 

4 

377.8  j 

591.474 

20 

20 

9120 

19 

1 

4 

370 

590.966 

19 

471.8  ; 

19.983 

8873.6 

18 

31.4 

1 

4 

123.6 

575 

19 

212.6 

19.443 

8750 

18 

110 

1 

4 

• • 

566.990 

19 

82.6 

19.172 

8671.4 

18 

31.4 

1 

3 

358.9 

561.900 

10 

10 

8640 

18 

1 

3 

327.5  ! 

559.863 

18 

447 

18.931 

8487.8 

17 

327.8 

1 

3 

175 

550 

18 

286.8 

18.598 

8312.5 

17 

152.5 

1 

3 

• • 

538.641 

18 

102.5 

18.214 

8215.1 

17 

55.1 

1 

2 

340.1 

532.327 

18 

18 

8160 

17 

1 

2 

285 

528.759 

17 

422.1 

17.880 

8102 

16 

422 

1 

2 

227 

525 

17 

361.1 

17.752 

7875 

16 

195.1 

1 

2 

510.291 

17 

122.4 

17.255 

7758.7 

16 

78.7 

1 

1 

321.2 

502.753 

17 

17 

7716.2  - 

16 

27.2 

1 

1 

278.7 

500 

16 

435.3 

16.907 

7680 

16 

. . 

1 

1 

242.5 

497.656 

16 

397.2 

16.828 

7437.5 

15 

237.5 

1 

1 

481.942 

16 

142.2 

16.297 

7330.4 

15 

130.4 

1 

330.4 

475 

16 

29.6 

16.062 

7302.3 

15 

102.3 

1 

302.3 

473.179 

16 

16 

7200 

15 

1 

200 

466.552 

15 

372.4 

15.776 

7000 

14 

280 

1 

# . 

453.592 

15 

162.1 

15.338 

6944.6 

14 

174.6 

15 

382.1 

450 

15 

103.8 

15.216 

6845.9 

14 

125.9 

15 

283.4 

443.606 

15 

15 

6720 

14 

15 

157.5 

435.449 

14 

347.6 

14.724 

6562.4 

13 

322.5 

15 

425.243 

14 

182 

14.379 

6558.8 

13 

318.8 

14 

433.8 

425 

14 

178.0 

14.371 

6389.5 

13 

149.5 

14 

264.5 

414.032 

14 

14 

6240 

13 

" 

14 

115 

404.345 

13 

322.8 

13.672 

6172.9 

12 

412.9 

i . . 

14 

47.9 

400 

13 

252.3 

13.526 

6125 

12 

365 

14 

396.893 

13 

201.8 

13.421 

5933.1 

12 

173.1 

i • • 

13 

245.6 

384.458 

13 

13 

5787.1 

12 

27.1 

13 

99.6 

375 

12 

326.5 

12.680 

5760 

12 

13 

72.5 

373.242 

12 

298 

12.621 

5687.5 

11 

407.5 

13 

368.544 

12 

221.7 

12.462 

5476.7  : 

11 

196.7 

m . 

12 

226.7 

354.884 

12 

12 

5401.3 

11 

121.3 

12 

151.3 

350 

11 

400.7 

11.835 

5280 

11 

12 

30 

342.138 

11 

273.1 

11.570 

5250 

10 

450 

12 

340.194 

11 

241.6 

11.503 

5020.3 

10 

220.3 

• • 

11 

207.8 

325.311 

11 

11 

5015.5 

10 

215.5 

• • 

11 

203 

325 

10 

475 

10.989 

4812.5 

10 

12.5 

11 

311.845 

10 

261.4 

10.545 

4800 

10 

10 

425 

311.035 

10 

248.3 

10.517 

4629.7 

9 

399.7 

10 

254.7 

300 

10 

69.2 

10.144 

4563.9 

9 

243.9 

10 

188.9 

295.737 

10 

10 

4375 

9 

55 

10 

283.495 

9 

281.3 

9.586 

4320 

9 

9 

382.5 

279.930 

9 

223.5 

9.466 

4244 

8 

404 

9 

306.5 

275 

9 

143.4 

9.299 

4107.5 

8 

267.5 

9 

170 

266.163 

9 

0 

3937.5 

8 

97.5 

9 

255.146 

8 

301.2 

8.628 

3858.1 

8 

18.1 

8 

358.1 

250 

8 

217.7 

8.453 

3840 

8 

8 

340 

248.828 

8 

198.6 

8.414 

. 3651.1 

7 

291.1 

8 

151.1 

236.590 

8 

8 

3500 

7 

140 

8 

226.796 

7 

321.0 

7.669 

3472.3 

7 

112.3 

7 

409.8 

225 

7 

291.9 

7.608 

3360 

7 

7 

297.5 

217.724 

7 

173.8 

7.362 

3194.7 

6 

314.7 

i . . 

7 

132.2 

207.016 

7 

7 

1768 


APPENDIX. 


Equivalents  of  Weights  and  Measures. — Continued. 


Weights,  customary. 

Metric 

W EIGHT  AND 

Measure. 
Gm.]  [Cm. 

Measures,  customary. 

Grains. 

Troy 

oz.  grains. 

Avoirdupois 
lbs.  oz.  grains. 

Fluid 

ounces,  minims. 

Fluidounces 

and 

fractions. 

3086.5 

6 

206.5 

7 

24 

200 

6 

366.1 

6.763 

3062.5 

6 

182.5 

7 

198.447 

6 

340.9 

6.710 

2880 

6 

6 

255 

186.621 

6 

149 

6.310 

2738.4 

5 

338.4 

6 

113.4 

177.442 

6 

6 

2700.7 

5 

300.7 

6 

75.7 

175 

5 

440*4 

5.917 

2625 

5 

225 

6 

170.097 

5 

360.8 

5.752 

2400 

5 

5 

212.5 

155.517 

5 

124.1 

5.259 

2314.9 

4 

394.9 

5 

127.4 

150 

5 

34.6 

5.072 

2282 

4 

362 

5 

94.5 

147.869 

5 

5 

2187.5 

4 

267.5 

5 

141.748 

4 

380*7 

4.793 

1929 

4 

9 

4 

179 

125 

4 

108.8 

4.227 

1920 

4 

170 

124.414 

4 

99.3 

4.207 

1825.6 

4 

385.6 

4 

75.6 

118.295 

4 

4 

1720 

3 

310 

4 

113.398 

3 

400.5 

3.834 

1543.2  1 

3 

103.2 

3 

230.7 

100 

3 

183.1 

3.381 

1440 

3 

3 

127.5 

93.310 

3 

74.5 

3.155 

1388.9 

2 

428.9 

3 

76.4 

90 

3 

20.8 

3.043 

1369.2 

2 

409.2 

3 

46.7 

88.721 

3 

3 

1312.5 

2 

352.5 

3 

85.049 

2 

420.4 

2.876 

1234.6 

2 

274.6 

2 

359.6 

80 

2 

338.5 

2.705 

1157.4 

2 

197.4 

2 

282.4 

75 

2 

257.3 

2.536 

1080.3 

2 

120.3 

2 

205.3 

70 

2 

176.1 

2.367 

960 

2 

2 

85 

62.207 

2 

49.7 

2.103 

925.9 

1 

445.9 

2 

50.9 

60 

2 

13.8 

2.029 

912.8 

1 

432.8 

2 

37.8 

59.147 

2 

2 

875 

1 

395 

2 

56.699 

1 

440.3 

1.917 

771.6 

1 

291.6 

1 

334.1 

50 

1 

331.5 

1.691 

617.3 

1 

137.3 

1 

179.8 

40 

1 

169.2 

1.353 

480 

1 

1 

42.5 

31.1035 

1 

24.8 

1.052 

462.9 

1 

25.4 

30 

1 1 

6.9 

1.014 

456.392 

1 

18.89 

29.574 

1 

1 

437.5 

1 

28.350 

460*1307 

0.959 

385.8 

* * 

25 

405.8 

0.845 

308.6 

20 

324.61 

0.676 

154.3 

10 

162.31 

0.338 

15.4324  ; 

. . 

1 

16.23 

0.034 

1 

' * 

0.06479 

1.0517 

0.0022 

0.9508  j 

• • i 

0.06161 

1 

0.0021 

Equivalents  of  Weights  from  1 Troy  Ounce  Down. 


Grains. 

Metric 
Weight  and 
Measure. 

Gm.]  [Cc. 

480  [Is 

31.103 

478.4 

31 

475.4 

30.805 

463.0 

30 

456.4 

29.573 

450 

29.159 

447.5 

29 

437.5  [lJJ* 

28.350 

432.1  °Z- 

28 

427.9 

27.724 

Minims  (of 
Water  at  4°  C.). 

Grains. 

504.8 

420  [7  3 

503.1 

416.7 

500 

401.2 

486.9 

399.3 

480 

390 

473.3 

385.8 

470.7 

380.3 

460.1 

370.8 

454.4 

370.4 

450 

Metric 
Weight  and 
Measure. 

Gm.]  [Cc. 

Minims  (of 
Water  at  4°  C.). 

27.214 

441.7 

27 

438.2 

26 

422 

25.876 

420 

25.271 

410.2 

25 

405.7 

24.644 

400 

24.028 

390 

24 

389.5 

EQUIVALENTS  OF  WEIGHTS  AND  MEASURES. 
Equivalents  of  Weights  and  Measures. — Continued. 


1769 


Grains. 

Metric 
Weight  and 
Measure. 

Gm.]  [Cc. 

Minims  (of 
Water  at  4°  C.). 

Grains. 

Metric 
Weight  and 
Measure. 

Gm.]  [Cc. 

Minims  (of 
Water  at  4°  C.). 

360  [63 

23.327 

378.6 

60  [13 

3.888 

63.1 

354.9 

23 

373.3 

57.0 

3.696 

60 

342.3 

22.180 

360 

54.69  [*£; 

3.544 

57.5 

339.5 

22 

357.1 

47.5 

3.080 

50 

330 

21.383 

347.1 

50 

3.240 

52.6 

324.1 

21 

340.8 

46.3 

3 

48.7 

313.8 

20.331 

330 

42.8 

2.772 

45 

308.6 

20 

324.6 

40 

2.592 

42.1 

38.0 

2.464 

40 

33.3 

2.156 

35 

30.9 

2 

32.5 

300  [5  3 

19.440 

315.5 

30 

1.944 

31.6 

293.2 

19 

308.4 

28.5 

1.848 

30 

285.2 

18.483 

300 

23.8 

1.540 

25 

277.8 

18 

292.1 

20 

1.296 

21.0 

270 

17.495 

284.0 

19.0 

1.232 

20 

262.3 

17 

275.9 

15.4324 

1 

16.23 

256.7 

16.635 

270 

246.9 

16 

259.7 

240  [4  5 

15.551 

252.4 

15 

0.972 

15.9 

231.5 

15 

243.4 

14.3 

0.924 

15 

228.2 

14.786 

240 

14 

0.907 

14.7 

218.75  {I™- 

14.175 

230.1 

13.3 

0.862 

14 

216.1 

14 

227.2 

13 

0.842 

13.7 

210 

13.607 

220.9 

12.4 

0.801 

13 

200.6 

13 

211 

12 

0.775 

12.6 

199.7 

12.938 

210 

11.4 

0.739 

12 

185.2 

12 

194.8 

11 

0.713 

11.6 

10.5 

0.678 

11 

ISO  [3  3 

11.663 

189.3 

10 

0.648 

10.5 

171.1  1 

11.090 

180 

9.5 

0.616 

10 

169.8 

11 

178.5 

9 

0.583 

9.5 

154.3 

10 

162.3 

8.6 

0.554 

9 

150 

9.719 

157.8 

8 . 

0.518 

8.4 

142.6 

9.241 

150 

7.7 

0.5 

8.1 

138.9 

9 

146.1 

7.6 

0.493 

8 

123.5 

8 

129.8 

7 

0.454 

7.4 

6.7 

0.431 

7 

6 

0.389 

6.3 

5.7 

0.370 

6 

120  [2  3 1 

7.775 

126.2 

5 

0.324 

5.3 

114.1 

7.393 

120 

4.8 

0.308 

5 

109.37  [*£• 

7.088 

115.9 

4 

0.259 

4.2 

108.0 

7 

113.6 

3.8 

0.246 

4 

100 

6.480 

105.2 

3 

0.194 

3.2 

95.1 

6.161 

100 

2.9 

0.185 

3 

92.6  # I 

6 

97.4 

2 

0.130 

2.1 

80 

5.184 

84.1 

1.9 

0.123 

2 

77.2 

5 

81.1 

1 

0.065 

1.0517 

76.1 

4.928 

80 

0.9508 

0.06161 

1 

61.7 

4 

64.9 

1770 


APPENDIX. 


Equivalents  of  Weights  and  Measures. — Concluded. 


Equivalents  of  Weights  from  5 Grains  Down. 


Grains 

Grains 

Grammes. 

in  decimal 
fractions. 

in  common 
fractions 
(approximate). 

Grammes. 

in  decimal 
fractions. 

in  common 
fractions 
(approximate). 

0.324 

5 

5 

0.028 

0.43 

7 

1 6 

0.291 

4.5 

4\ 

0.025 

0.39 

!- 

0.259 

4 

4 

0.024 

0.37 

3 

g 

0.226 

3.5 

3^ 

0.020 

0.31 

T6 

0.194 

3 

3 

0.016 

0.24 

1 

X 

0.162 

2.5 

91 

-2 

0.012 

0.18 

A 

0.130 

2 

2 

0.008 

0.12 

0.097 

1.5 

H 

0.004 

0.06 

i 

T'6 

0.065 

1 

l 

0.0032 

0.05 

1 

Jo 

0.0027 

0.04 

1 

2J 

0.061 

0.94 

\\ 

0.0022 

0.033 

1 

Jo 

0.060 

0.93 

9 

1 0 

0.0018 

0.028 

1 

JJ 

0.057 

0.88 

7 

J 

0.0016 

0.025 

1 

TO 

0.053 

0.82 

1 3 
T¥ 

0.0013 

0.02 

1 

30 

0.050 

0.77 

I 

0.0011 

0.017 

1 

0.049 

0.76 

3 

T 

0.001 

0.015 

1 

6T 

0.045 

0.69 

1 1 
1 6 

0.0006 

0.01 

0.040 

0.62 

1 0 
T6 

0.0005 

0.008 

1 

T28" 

0.036 

0.56 

9 

T6 

0.0004 

0.0065 

rio 

0.032 

0.5 

1 

2 

0.0003 

0.005 

1 

2 0 0 

0.0002 

0.003 

JJJ 

0.0001 

0.0015 

J40 

% 


WEIGHTS  AND  MEASURES. 


1771 


Tables  of  Weights  and  Measures. 


Apothecaries’  or  Troy  Weight,  U.  S. 


One  pound, 
One  troyounce, 
One  drachm, 
One  scruple, 
One  grain, 


lb  = 

12 

troyounces 

= 5760 

grains  = 

3 = 

8 

drachms 

= 480 

u 

5 = 

3 

scruples 

= 60 

a 

d 

= 20 

u 

gr. 

1 

grain. 

13  ounces  avoirdupois  72.5  grains. 
1 ounce  “ 42.5  “ 

» 


Apothecaries’  or  Wine  Measure,  U.  S. 

Troy  grains 
Cubic  inches,  of  water  at 


60°  F. 

1 minim,  rt^ 0.00376  0.95 

60  minims  = 1 fluidrachm,  5 0.2256  56.96 

480  “ = 8 fluidrachms  = 1 fluidounce,  f ^ 1.8047  455.69 

7680  “ - 128  “ = 16  fluidounces  = 1 pint,  O 28.875  7291.11 


61440  “ = 1024  “ = 128  “ =8  pts.  = 1 gal.,  Cong.  231.  58328.88 


Weights  and  Measures  of  the  British  Pharmacopeia. 

One  pound,  lb  = 16  ounces  = 7000  troy  grains  = ibi  ,^ij  ^iv  gr.  xl. 

One  ounce,  oz.  = 437.5  “ = 5 vij  gr.  xvijss. 

One  grain,  gr.  = 1 grain. 


The  pound  and  ounce  of  the  British  Pharmacopoeia  are  identical  with  the  same  denominations 
of  avoirdupois  weight.  The  avoirdupois  ounce  is  subdivided  into  16  drachms  (1  drachm  = 27.34 
troy  grains)  ; but  the  British  Pharmacopoeia  recognizes  no  subdivisions  between  the  ounce  and 
grain.  It  is,  however,  optional  with  the  physician  in  prescribing  to  use  the  symbols  9 an(l  3 > 
the  former  representing  20  and  the  latter  60  grains,  if  such  be  found  to  conduce  to  accuracy  or 
convenience. 


Troy  grains. 


1 minim,  min 

60  minims  = 1 fluidrachm,  jldr. 

480  “ = 8 fluidrachms  =• 

9600  “ = 160 

76800  “ = 1280  “ 


0.91 

54.7 

1 fluidounce,  floz.  . . 437.5  = 

20  fluid  ozs.  = 1 pint,  O 8750.  = 
160  “ = 8 pints  = 70000.  = 


Avoirdupois. 


1 ounce. 
1.25  pound. 
10  pounds. 


Metric  Weights  and  Measures. 


Troy  weight. 


1 milligram  (Mgm.)  = 0.001  gram  (Gm.) .015  grain. 

10  milligrams  = 1 centigram  (Cgm.)  = 0.010  gram  (Gm.) .154  “ 

100  “ = 10  centigrams  “ =1  decigram  (Dgm.)  = 0.100  gram  (Gm.)  . . 1.543  “ 

1000  “ = 100  “ “ = 10  decigrams  “ = 1.000  “ . . 15.432  “ 


1 gram  (weight  of  1 cubic  centimeter  of  water  at  40°  C.). 

10  grams  = 1 dekagram 

100  “ ==  10  dekagrams  = 1 hektogram  

1000  “ = 100  “ = 10  hektograms  = 1 kilogram  (Kgm.). 

10  kilograms  = 1 myriagram  = 22.046  lb.  av. 

100  “ ===  1 quintal  = 220.46 

1000  “ =1  millier  or  tonneau  = 2204.6  “ 


1 milliliter  (or  1 cubic  centimeter,  Ccm.) 
10  milliliters  = 1 centiliter 

100  “ = 10  centiliters 

1000  “ = 100  “ 


= 0.001  liter 

= 0.010  “ 

= 1 deciliter  = 0.100  liter 
= 10  deciliters  = 1.000  “ 


Troy  grains.  Av.  weight. 
154.323  .3527  ounce. 

1543.235  3.5274  ounces. 
15432.350  35.274  “ 


Apothecaries’  measure. 
16.23  minims. 

2.71  fluidrachms. 
3.38  fluidounces. 
33.81  “ 


Wine  measure. 

1 liter  (or  1 cubic  decimeter) 1.0567  quarts. 

10  liters  = 1 dekaliter  2.6417  gallons. 

100  “ = 10  dekaliters  1 hektoliter 26.417  “ 

1000  “ = 100  “ 10  hektoliters  = 1 kiloliter  or  stere  . . . 264.17  “ 


The  unit  of  all  metric  measures  is  the  meter  (French,  metre),  and  this  is  the  ten-millionth  part 
of  the  quadrant  or  fourth  part  of  the  terrestrial  meridian,  the  quadrant  being  the  distance  from 
the  equator  to  the  pole.  The  cube  of  the  tenth  part  of  a meter,  denominated  liter  (Fr.  litre),  was 
adopted  as  the  unit  of  measures  of  capacity.  The  weight  of  the  one-thousandth  part  of  a liter 
of  distilled  water  at  its  greatest  density  (4°  C.)  was  denominated  gram  (Fr.  gramme ),  and  adopted 
as  the  unit  of  weight.  The  subdivisions  of  all  measures  are  named  by  prefixing  to  the  name  of 
the  unit  the  Latin  numerals  deci  (.1),  centi  (.01),  and  milli  (.001),  and  the  larger  denominations 
by  prefixing  the  Greek  numerals  deka  (10),  hekto  (100),  kilo  (1000),  and  myria  (10000). 


1772 


APPENDIX. 


Relative  Value  of  Wine  or  Apothecaries’  and  Imperial  Measures. 


Wine  measure. 
1 minim 
1 fluidrachm 
1 fluidounce 
1 pint 
1 gallon 


Imperial  measure. 

Pints.  Floz.  Fldr.  Minims. 

Imperial  measure. 

Galls. 

Wine  measure. 

Pints.  fS.  f3.  Minims. 

1.04  i 

1 minim 

0.96 

1 2.5 

1 fluidrachm 

58 

1 

0 20. 

1 fluidounce 

...  7 

41 

16 

5 19. 

1 pint 

1 

3 1 

38 

6 13 

2 32. 

1 gallon 

i 

1 

9 5 

4 

24  fluidounces  wine  measure  = 25  fluidounces  Imperial  measure  (difference  1 grain). 


Approximate  Measures. 

In  Great  Britain  prescriptions  are  compounded  by  weighing  the  solids  and  measuring  the  liquids, 
and  the  same  course  is  very  generally  followed  in  the  United  States  ; but  on  the  continent  of 
Europe  weights  alone  are  employed  in  the  making  of  preparations  as  well  as  in  the  compound- 
ing of  prescriptions.  Medicines  are,  however,  taken  by  familiar  domestic  measures,  which  are 
subject  to  considerable  variations,  but  are  usually  estimated  as  having  the  following  capacity : 


In  the  United  States.  In  France. 

A teaspoonful  1 fluidrachm 5 grams  of  water. 

A desertspoonful  2 fluidrachms 10  “ “ “ 

A tablespoonful  ^ fluidounce  15  “ “ “ 

A wineglassful  2 fluidounces  . 

A glassful  150  grams  of  water. 

A teacupful  4 fluidounces 

A tumblerful  8 fluidounces 


The  approximate  measures  by  the  handful  (Fr.  poignee)  and  pinch  (Fr.  pincee)  are  almost 
completely  discarded,  or  employed  only  for  the  least  active  drugs. 

The  measuring  of  small  quantities  of  liquids  by  drops  gives  very  uncertain  and  variable 
results,  which  are  influenced  by  the  viscidity  of  the  liquid,  the  size,  shape,  and  fulness  of  the 
vessel,  the  curvature  of  the  lip,  the  temperature,  the  rapidity  of  dropping,  and  probably  by  other 
circumstances.  As  a rule,  it  may  be  said  that  aqueous  liquids  yield  larger  drops  than  those  con- 
taining little  or  no  water  •,  but  very  different  results  are  obtained  with  the  same  liquid  dropped 
from  different  bottles,  or  even  from  the  same  bottle  under  different  conditions ; the  differences 
amount  frequently  to  50,  and  occasionally  to  200,  per  cent.  For  these  reasons  medicated  liquids 
should  not  be  ordered  in  drops,  but  preferably  by  weight  or  measure ; and  whenever  it  is  desira- 
ble for  the  patient  to  take  a medicine  by  drops,  the  dose  may  be  approximated  by  estimating  each 
minim  to  contain  of — 


Ether  and  ethereal  solutions 2J  to  3 drops. 

Tinctures,  alcoholic  solutions,  and  volatile  oils 1 J to  2 or  2J  drops. 

Medicated  wines 1 to  1J  drops. 

Water  and  aqueous  solutions | to  1 drop. 


In  order  to  avoid  to  some  extent  the  discrepancies  resulting  from  the  dropping  of  liquids  under 
various  conditions,  dropping-measures  (compte-gouttes)  have  been  constructed  in  France,  yielding 
at  15°  C.  drops  of  distilled  water,  20  of  which  weigh  1 Gm.,  at  least  within  a limit  of  2 per  cent. 
The  French  Codex  gives  a table  containing  the  weight  of  1 drop,  and  the  number  of  drops  for 
1 Gm.  of  various  liquids,  dropped  under  the  conditions  stated,  which  may  be  summarized  as 
follows : 


Number  of  drops 
20  . . 


21-26 

31 

33 

43 

48 

50-57 

61 

72 

90 


for  1 Gm.  of  the  following  liquids : 

Hydrocyanic  acid,  Diluted  sulphuric  acid,  Aqueous  solutions  of  the  salts  of 
metals  and  the  alkaloids. 

Mineral  acids,  Ammonia- water,  Glycerin,  Fowler’s  solution,  Vinegars. 

Solution  of  chloral  (^). 

Wine  (Grenache)  and  medicated  wines. 

Creasote. 

Fixed  oils.  , 

Glacial  acetic  acid.  Carbolic  acid  (alcoholic  solution),  Alcohol  (sp.  gr.  .864  and 
over),  Chloroform,  Volatile  oils,  Tinctures,  Spirit  of  nitrous  ether. 

Alcohol  (sp.  gr.  .834),  Tincture  of  iodine. 

Spirit  of  ether. 

Ether. 


WEIGHTS  AND  MEASURES. 


1773 


Equivalents  of  Measures  of  Length. 

Customary  and  Metric. 


Inches 

Centimeters. 

Inches. 

Centimeters. 

Inches. 

Millimeters. 

in  decimal 
fractions. 

in  32ds. 

1 50 

59.06 

- 55 

21.65 

25.4 

1. 

3 2 
3 2 

145 

57.09 

53.3 

21 

25 

0.98 

140 

55.12 

50.8 

20 

24 

0.94 

139.7 

55 

50 

19.69 

23.8 

0.94 

30 

32 

135 

53.15 

48.3 

19 

23 

0.90 

2 9 
12 

130 

51.18 

45.7 

18 

22.2 

0.87 

22 

127.0 

50 

45 

17.72 

22 

0.87 

125 

49.21 

43.2 

17 

21 

| 0.83 

120 

47.24 

40.6 

16 

20.6 

0.81 

26 

12 

115 

45.28 

40 

15.75 

20 

0.79 

114.3 

45 

38.1 

15 

19.1 

0.75 

24 
3 2 

110 

43.31 

35.6 

14 

19 

0.75 

105 

41.34 

35 

13.78 

18 

0.71 

101.6 

40 

33.0 

13 

17.5 

0.69 

22 
3 2 

100 

39.37 

30.5 

12 

17 

0.67 

99.0 

39 

30 

11.81 

16 

0.63 

96.5 

38 

27.9 

11 

15.9 

0.62 

n 

95 

37.40 

25.4 

10 

15 

0.59 

93.9 

37 

25 

9.84 

14.3 

0.56 

1 8 
32 

91.4 

36 

22.9 

9 

14 

0.55 

90 

35.43 

20.3 

8 

13 

0.51 

88.9 

35 

20 

7.87 

12.7 

0.50 

1 6 
32 

86.4 

34 

17.8 

7 

12 

0.47 

85 

33.46 

15.2 

6 

11.1 

0.44 

14 
3 2 

83.8 

33 

15 

5.91 

11 

0.43 

81.3 

32 

12.7 

5 

10 

0.39 

80 

31.50 

10.2 

4 

9.5 

0.37 

1 2 

12 

78.7 

31 

10 

3.94 

9 

0.35 

76.2 

30 

9 

3.54 

8.7 

0.34 

1 1 

12  ' 

75 

29.53 

8 

3.15 

8 

0.31 

73.6 

29 

7.6 

3 

7.9 

0.31 

1 0 

12 

71.1 

28 

7 

2.76 

7.1 

0.28 

12 

70 

27.56 

6 

2.36 

7 

0.28 

68.6 

27 

5.1 

2 

6.4 

0.25 

22 

66.0 

26 

5 

1.97 

6 

0.24 

65 

25.59 

4 

1.57 

5.6 

0.22 

22 

63.5 

25 

3 

1.18 

5 

0.20 

61.0 

24 

2.54 

1 

4.8 

0.19 

22 

60 

23.62 

2 

0.78 

4 

0.16 

58.4 

23 

1 

0.39 

3.2 

0.13 

22 

55.9 

22 

3 

0.12 

2.4 

0.09 

3 

22 

2 

0.08 

1.6 

0.06 

2 

22 

1 

0.04 

0.8 

0.03 

1 

22 

0.1 

0.0039 

Measures  of  Length. 
Metric. 


Inches. 

1 millimeter  (Mm.) 039370 

10  millimeters  “ = 1 centimeter  (Cm.) , 393704 

100  “ “ = 10  centimeters  “ 1 decimeter  (Dm.) 3.937043 

1000  “ “ =100  “ “ = 10  decimeters  “ =1  meter  (M.)  . . .39.370432 

10  meters  = 1 dekameter 32  feet  9.7  inches. 

100  “ = 10  dekameters=  1 hektometer 328  “ 1 inch. 

1000  “ = 100  “ = 10  hektometers  = 1 kilometer 3280  “ 10.4  inches. 

1 kilometer  =4  furlongs  213  yards  1 foot  10.43  inches. 

10  kilometers  =1  my riameter  = 6.2137  miles. 


1774 


APPENDIX. 


English. 


1 inch  .... 

0.0254  meter. 

12  inches  — 1 

foot  . . 

0.3048  “ . 

36  “ 3 

feet  =1 

yard 

0.9144  “ 

198  “ = 16$ 

I =51 

yards  = 1 rod 

220  yards  = 40 

rods  = 1 

furlong 

201.1662  “ 

1760  “ =320 

“ =8 

furlongs  = 1 mile 

1609.3297  “ 

Measures  of  Surface. 

Metric. 

Hektare 

2.471  acres. 

Are 

...  100  “ 

119.6 

square  yards. 

Centare  

1550 

square  inches. 

Table  showing  the  Relation  of  the  Degrees  of  Baume’s  Hydrome- 
ters to  Specific  Gravities. 

The  hydrometers  most  frequently  used  in  the  United  States  are  those  constructed  upon  the 
plan  of  Baurne.  For  liquids  heavier  than  water  the  point  to  which  the  instrument  sinks  in  pure 
water  is  0,  and  the  point  to  which  it  sinks  in  a solution  of  15  parts  of  dry  table-salt  in  85  parts 
of  water  is  marked  15,  the  distance  between  the  two  points  being  divided  into  15  equal  parts,  and 
the  scale  continued  with  divisions  of  the  same  size.  For  liquids  lighter  than  water  the  instru- 
ment is  floated  in  a solution  of  10  parts  of  dry  table-salt  in  90  parts  of  water,  and  afterward  in 
pure  water,  the  distance  being  divided  into  10  equal  parts,  and  the  scale  continued  in  like  man- 
ner 5 the  point  indicating  the  density  of  water  is  marked  10.  The  hydrometers  were  originally 
constructed  at  a medium  temperature.  In  the  United  States  they  are  made  for  the  temperature 
of  60°  F.  (15.55°  C.),  and  the  scales  as  originally  published  by  Henry  Pemberton  (1852)  are  recog- 
nized. They  agree  closely  with  the  determinations  made  by  Schober  and  Pescher  for  liquids 
heavier  than  water,  and  differ  but  little  for  liquids  lighter  than  water. 

Cartier's  hydrometer , which  is  occasionally  employed  in  France,  agrees  with  Baume’s  scale  for 
liquids  lighter  than  water,  except  that  16°  of  the  latter  are  equal  to  15°  Cartier. 


For  Liquids  Heavier  than  Water. 


Deg. 

Sp.  grav. 

Deg. 

Sp.  grav.  | 

! Deg. 

1 Sp.  grav. 

j Deg. 

Sp.  grav. 

Deg. 

Sp.  grav. 

0 

1.0000 

16 

1.1240 

! 32 

1.2831 

48 

1.4949 

64 

1.7901 

1 

1.0069 

17 

1.1328  1 

j 33 

1.2946 

! 49 

1.5104 

65 

1.8125 

2 

1.0139 

18 

1.1417 

34 

1.3063 

! 50 

1.5263 

66 

1.8354 

3 

1.0211 

19 

1.1507  1 

| 35 

1.3181 

1 51 

1.5425 

67 

1.8589 

4 

1.0283 

20 

1.1600 

| 36 

1.3302 

52 

1.5591 

68 

1.8831 

5 

1.0357 

21 

1.1693  | 

1 37 

1.3425 

i 53 

1.5760 

69 

1.9079 

6 

1.0431 

22 

1.1788  i 

38 

1.3551 

54 

1.5934 

70 

1.9333 

7 

1.0507 

23 

1.1885 

39 

1.3679 

! 55 

1.6111 

71 

1.9595 

8 

1.0583 

24 

1.1983 

40 

1.3809 

j 56 

1.6292 

72 

1.9863 

9 

1.0661 

25 

1.2083 

41 

1.3942 

57 

1.6477 

73 

2.0139 

10 

1.0740 

26 

1.2184 

42 

1.4077 

! 58 

1.6666 

74 

2.0422 

11 

1.0820 

27 

1.2288 

43 

1.4215 

59 

1.6860 

75 

2.0714 

12 

1.0902 

28 

1.2393 

44 

1.4356 

60 

1.7058 

13 

1.0984 

29 

1.2500 

45 

1.4500 

61 

1.7261 

14 

1.1068 

30 

1.2608 

46 

1.4646 

62 

1.7469 

15 

| 1.1153 

31 

1.2719 

47 

1.4795 

63 

1.7682 

For  Liquids  Lighter  than 

Water. 

Deg. 

Sp.  grav. 

Deg. 

Sp.  grav. 

Deg. 

Sp.  grav. 

Deg. 

Sp.  grav. 

Deg. 

Sp.  grav. 

10 

1.0000 

23 

0.9150 

36 

0.8433 

49 

0.7821 

62 

0.7290 

11 

0.9929 

24 

0.9090 

37 

0.8383 

50 

0.7777 

63 

0.7253 

12 

0.9859 

25 

0.9032 

38 

0.8333 

51 

0.7734 

64 

0.7216 

13 

0.9790 

26 

0.8974 

39 

0.8284 

52 

0.7692 

65 

0.7179 

14 

0.9722 

27 

0.8917 

40 

0.8235 

53 

0.7650 

66 

0.7142 

15 

0.9655 

28 

0.8860 

41 

0.8187 

54 

0.7608 

67 

0.7106 

16 

0.9589 

29 

0.8805 

42 

0.8139 

55 

0.7567 

68 

0.7070 

17 

0.9523 

30 

0.8750 

43 

0.8092 

56 

0.7526 

69 

0.7035 

18 

0.9459 

31 

0.8695 

44 

0.8045 

57 

0.7486 

70 

0.7000 

19 

0.9395 

32 

0.8641 

45 

0.8000 

58 

0.7446 

71 

0.6965 

20 

0.9333 

33 

0.8588 

46 

0.7954 

59 

0.7407 

72 

0.6930 

21 

0.9271 

1 34 

0.8536 

47 

0.7909 

60 

0.7368 

73 

0.6896 

22 

0.9210 

1 35 

0.8484 

48 

0.7865 

61 

0.7329 

74 

0.6863 

TABLE  OF  THERMOMETRIC  EQUIVALENTS. 


1775 


Table  of  Thermometric  Equivalents 

ACCORDING  TO  THE  CENTIGRADE  AND  FAHRENHEIT  SCARES. 


c.° 

F.° 

C.° 

F.° 

C.° 

F.° 

C.° 

F.° 

—40 

—40 

—14.4444 

6 

5.5556 

42 

30.5556 

87 

—39.4444 

—39 

— 14 

6.8 

6 

42.8 

31 

87.8 

—39 

—38.2 

—13.8889 

7 

6.1111 

43 

31.1111 

88 

—38.8889 

—38 

—13.3333 

8 

6.6667 

44 

31.6667 

89 

—38.3333 

—37 

—13 

8.6 

7 

44.6 

i 32 

89.6 

—38 

— 36.4 

—12.7778 

9 

7.2222 

45 

32.2222 

90 

— 37.7778 

—36 

—12.2222 

10 

7.7778 

46 

32.7778 

91 

—37.2222 

—35 

—12 

10.4 

8 

46.4 

33 

91.4 

—37 

—34.6 

—11.6667 

11 

8.3333 

47 

33.3333 

92 

—36.6667 

— 34 

—11.1111 

12 

8.8889 

48 

33.8889 

93 

—36.1111 

-33 

-11 

12.2 

o 

48.2 

34 

93.2 

—36 

—32.8 

— 10.5556 

13 

9.4444 

49 

34.4444 

94 

— 35.5556 

—32 

—10 

14 

10 

50 

35 

95 

—35 

-31 

—34.4444 

-30 

—9.4444 

15 

10.5556 

51 

35.5556 

96 

-34 

—29.2 

-9 

15.8 

11 

51.8 

36 

96.8 

—33.8889 

—29 

—8.8889 

16 

11.1111 

52 

36.1111 

97 

—33.3333 

—28 

—8.3333 

17 

11.6667 

53 

36.6667 

98 

—33 

—27.4 

—8 

17.6 

12 

53.6 

37 

98.6 

— 32.7778 

—27 

— 7.7778 

18 

12.2222 

54 

37.2222 

99 

—32.2222 

—26 

—7.2222 

19 

12.7778 

55 

37.7778 

100 

-32 

—25.6 

—7 

19.4 

13 

55.4 

38 

100.4 

—31.6667 

-25 

—6.6667 

20 

13.3333 

56 

38.3333 

101 

—31.1111 

—24 

—6.1111 

21 

13.8889 

57 

38.8889 

102 

—31 

—23.8 

—6 

21.2 

14 

57.2 

39 

102.2 

—30.5556 

—23 

—5.5556 

22 

14.4444 

58 

39.4444 

103 

-30 

-22 

—5 

23 

15 

59 

40 

104 

—29.4444 

—21 

—4.4444 

24 

15.5556 

60 

40.5556 

105 

—29 

—20.2 

—4 

24.8 

16 

60.8 

41 

105.8 

—28.8889 

—20 

—3.8889 

25 

16.1111 

61 

41.1111 

106 

—28.3333 

—19 

—3.3333 

26 

16.6667 

62 

41.6667 

107 

—28 

—18.4 

—3 

26.6 

17 

62.6 

42 

107.6 

—27.7778 

—IS 

—2.7778 

27 

17.2222 

63 

42.2222 

108 

—27.2222 

—17 

—2.2222 

28 

17.7778 

64 

42J778 

109 

-27 

—16.6 

2 

28.4 

18 

64.4 

43 

109.4 

—26.6667 

—16 

—1.6667 

29 

18.3333 

65 

43.3333 

110 

—26.1111 

-15 

—1.1111 

30 

18.8889 

66 

43.8889 

111 

—26 

—14.8 

—1 

30.2 

19 

66.2 

44 

111.2 

— 25.5556 

—14 

— 0.5556 

31 

19.4444 

67 

44.4444 

112 

—25 

—13 

0 

32 

20 

68 

45 

113 

—24.4444 

-12 

20.5556 

69 

45.5556 

114 

—24 

—11.2 

21 

69.8 

46 

114.8 

—23.8889 

—11 

21.1111 

70 

46.1111 

115 

—23.3333 

—10 

21.6667 

71 

46.6667 

116 

—23 

-9.4 

22 

71,6 

47 

116.6 

—22.7778 

—9 

22.2222 

72 

47.2222 

117 

—22.2222 

—8 

22.7778 

73 

47.7778 

118 

22 

— 7.6 

23 

73.4 

48 

118.4 

—21.6667 

—7 

23.3333 

74 

48.3333 

119 

—21.1111 

-6 

23.8889 

75 

48.8889 

120 

—21 

—5.8 

24 

75.2 

49 

120.2 

— 20.5556 

— 5 

24.4444 

76 

49.4444 

121 

—20 

25 

77 

50 

122 

—19.4444 

—3 

0.5556 

33 

25.5556 

78 

50.5556 

123 

—19 

—2.2  1 

1 

33.8 

26 

78.8 

51 

123.8 

—18.8889 

-2 

1.1111 

34 

26.1111 

79 

51.1111 

124 

—18.3333 

—1 

1.6667 

35 

26.6667 

80 

51.6667 

125 

-18 

—0.4 

2 

35.6 

27 

80.6 

52 

125.6 

—17.7778 

0 

2.2222 

36 

27.2222 

81 

52.2222 

126 

—17.2222 

1 

2.7778 

37 

27.7778 

82 

52.7778 

127 

-17 

1.4  ! 

3 

37.4 

28 

82.4 

53 

127.4 

—16.6667 

2 

3.3333 

38 

28.3333 

83 

53.3333 

128 

—16.1111 

3 

3.8889 

39 

28.8889 

84 

53.8889 

129 

—16 

3.2 

4 

39.2 

29 

84.2 

54 

129.2 

— 1 5.5556 

4 

4.4444 

40 

29.4444 

85 

54.4444 

130 

— 15 

5 

5 

41 

30 

86 

55 

131 

1776 


APPENDIX. 


Table  of  Thermometric  Equivalents. — Continued. 


c.° 

F.° 

C.° 

F.° 

c.° 

F° 

C.° 

F.° 

55.5556 

132 

80.5556 

177 

105.5556 

222 

130.5556 

267 

56 

132.8 

81 

177.8 

106 

222.8 

131 

267.8 

56.1111 

133 

81.1111 

178 

106.1111 

223 

131.1111 

268 

56.6667 

134 

81.6667 

170 

106.6667 

224 

131.6667 

260 

57 

134.6 

82 

179.6 

107 

224.6  | 

132 

269.6 

57.2222 

135 

82.2222 

180 

107.2222 

225 

132.2222 

270 

57.7778 

136 

82.7778 

181 

107.7778 

226 

132.7778 

271 

58 

136.4 

83 

181.4 

108 

226.4 

133 

271.4 

58.3333 

137 

83.3333 

182 

108.3333 

227 

133.3333 

272 

58.8889 

138 

83.8889 

183 

108.8889 

228 

133.8889 

273 

59 

138.2 

84 

183.2 

100 

228.2 

134 

273.2 

59.4444 

130 

84.4444 

184 

109.4444 

220 

1 134.4444 

274 

60 

140 

85 

185 

110 

230 

135 

275 

60.5556 

141 

85.5556 

186 

110.5556 

231 

135.5556 

276 

61 

141.8 

86 

186.8 

111 

231.8 

136 

276.8 

61.1111 

142 

86.1111 

187 

111.1111 

232 

136.1111 

277 

61.6667 

143 

86.6667 

188 

111.6667 

233 

136.6667 

278 

62 

143.6 

87 

188.6 

112 

233.6 

137 

278.6 

62.2222 

144 

87.2222 

180 

112.2222 

234 

137.2222 

270 

62.7778 

145 

87.7778 

100 

112.7778 

235 

137.7778 

280 

63 

145.4 

88 

190.4 

113 

235.4 

138 

280.4 

63.3333 

146 

88.3333 

101 

113.3333 

236 

138.3333 

281 

63.8889 

147 

88.8889 

102 

113.8889 

237 

138.8889 

282 

64 

147.2 

80 

192.2 

J 114 

237.2 

130 

282.2 

64.4444 

148 

89.4444 

103 

114.4444 

238 

139.4444 

283 

65 

140 

00 

104 

115 

230 

140 

284 

65.5556 

150 

90.5556 

105 

115.5556 

240 

140.5556 

285 

66 

150.8 

01 

195.8 

116 

240.8 

141 

285.8 

66.1111 

151 

91.1111 

106 

116.1111 

241 

141.1111 

286 

66.6667 

152 

91.6667 

107 

116.6667 

242 

| 141.6667 

287 

67 

152.6 

02 

197.6 

117 

242.6 

142 

287.6 

67.2222 

153 

92.2222 

108 

117.2222 

243 

142.2222 

288 

67.7778 

154 

92.7778 

100 

117.7778 

244 

142.7778 

280 

68 

154.4 

03 

199.4 

118 

244.4 

143 

289.4 

68.3333 

155 

93.3333 

200 

118.3333 

245 

143.3333 

200 

68.8889 

156 

93.8889 

201 

118.8889 

246 

143.8889 

201 

60 

156.2 

04 

201.2 

110 

246.2 

144 

291.2 

69.4444 

157 

94.4444 

202 

119.4444 

247 

144.4444 

202 

70 

158 

05 

203 

120 

248 

145 

203 

70.5556 

150 

95.5556 

204 

120.5556 

| 240 

145.5556 

204 

71 

159.8 

06 

204.8 

121 

249.8 

146 

294.8 

71.1111 

160 

96.1111 

205 

121.1111 

250 

146.1111 

205 

71.6667 

161 

96.6667 

206 

121.6667 

251 

146.6667 

206 

72 

161.6 

07 

206.6 

122 

251.6 

147 

296.6 

72.2222 

162 

97.2222 

207 

122.2222 

252 

147.2222 

207 

72.7778 

163 

97.7778 

208 

122^7778 

253 

147.7778 

208 

73 

163.4 

08 

208.4 

123 

253.4 

148 

298.4 

73.3333 

164 

98.3333 

200 

123.3333 

254 

148.3333 

200 

73.8889 

165 

98.8889 

210 

123.8889 

255 

148.8889 

300 

74 

165.2 

00 

210.2 

124 

255.2 

140 

300.2 

74.4444 

166 

99.4444 

211 

124.4444 

256 

149.4444 

301 

75 

167 

100 

212 

125 

257 

150 

302 

75.5556 

168 

100.5556 

213 

125.5556 

258 

150.5556 

303 

76 

168.8 

101 

213.8 

126 

258.8 

151 

303.8 

76.1111 

160 

101.1111 

214 

126.1111 

250 

151.1111 

304 

76.6667 

170 

101.6667 

215 

126.6667 

260 

151.6667 

305 

7 7 

170.6 

102 

215.6 

127 

260.6 

152 

305.6 

77.2222 

171 

102.2222 

216 

127.2222 

261 

152.2222 

306 

77.7778 

172 

102.7778 

217 

127.7778 

262 

152.7778 

307 

78 

172.4 

103 

217.4 

128 

262.4 

153 

307.4 

78.3333 

173 

1 103.3333 

218 

128.3333 

263 

153.3333 

308 

78.8889 

! 174 

103.8889 

210 

128.8889 

264 

153.8889 

300 

70 

174.2 

104 

219.2 

120 

264.2 

154 

309.2 

79.4444 

175 

104.4444 

220 

1 29.4444 

265 

154.4444 

310 

80 

176 

1 105 

221 

130 

266 

155 

311 

TABLE  OF  THERMOMETRIC  EQUIVALENTS. 


1777 


Table  of  Thermometric  Equivalents. — Continued. 


c.° 

F.° 

C.° 

F.° 

155.5556 

312 

180.5556 

357 

156 

312.8 

181 

357.8 

156.1111 

313 

181.1111 

358 

156.6667 

314 

181.6667 

359 

157 

314.6 

182 

359.6 

157.2222 

315 

182.2222 

360 

151.777S 

316 

182.7778 

361 

158 

316.4 

183 

361.4 

158.3333 

317 

183.3333 

362 

158.8889 

318 

183.8889 

363 

159 

318.2 

184 

I 363.2 

159.4444 

319 

184.4444 

364 

160 

320 

185 

365 

160.5556 

321 

185.5556 

366 

161 

321.8 

186 

366.8 

161.1111 

322 

186.1111 

367 

161.6667 

323 

186.6667 

368 

162 

323.6 

187 

368.6 

162.2222 

324 

187.2222 

369 

162.7778 

325 

187.7778 

370 

163 

325.4 

188 

370.4 

163.3333 

326 

188.3333 

371 

163.8889 

327 

188.8889 

372 

164 

327.2 

189 

372.2 

164.4444 

328 

189.4444 

373 

165 

329 

190 

374 

165.5556 

330 

1 190.5556 

375 

166 

330.8 

191 

375.8 

166.1111 

331 

191.1111 

376 

166.6667 

332 

191.6667 

377 

167 

332.6 

192 

377.6 

167.2222 

333 

192.2222 

378 

167.7778 

334 

192.7778 

379 

168 

334.4 

193 

379.4 

168.3333 

335 

193.3333 

380 

168.8889 

336 

193.8889 

381 

169 

3362 

194 

381.2 

169.4444 

337 

194.4444 

382 

170 

338 

195 

383 

170.5556 

339 

195.5556 

384 

171 

339.8 

196 

384.8 

171.1111 

340 

196.1111 

385 

171.6667 

341 

196.6667 

386 

172 

341.6 

197 

386.6 

172.2222 

342 

197.2222 

387 

172.7778 

343 

197.7778 

388 

173 

343.4 

198 

388.4 

173.3333 

344 

198.3333 

389 

173.8889 

345 

198.8889 

390 

174 

345.2 

199 

390.2 

174.4444 

346 

199.4444 

391 

175 

347 

200 

392 

175.5556 

348 

200.5556 

393 

176 

348.8 

201 

393.8 

176.1111 

349 

201.1111 

394 

176.6667 

350 

201.6667 

395 

177 

350.6 

202 

395.6 

177.2222 

351 

20‘>  9992 

396 

177.7778 

352 

202.7778 

397 

178 

352.4 

203 

397.4 

178.3333 

353 

203.3333 

398 

178.8889 

354 

203.8889 

399 

179 

354.2 

204 

399.2 

179.4444 

355 

204.4444 

400 

180 

356 

205 

401 

C.° 

F.° 

C.° 

F.° 

205.5556 

402 

1 230.5556 

447 

206 

402.8 

231 

447.8 

206.1111 

403 

231.1111 

448 

206.6667 

404 

231.6667 

449 

207 

404.6  I 

232 

449.6 

907  9999 

405 

232.2222 

450 

207.7778 

406 

232.7778 

451 

208 

406.4 

233 

451.4 

208.3333 

407 

233.3333 

452 

208.8889 

408 

233.8889 

453 

209 

408.2 

234 

453.2 

209.4444 

409 

, 234.4444 

454 

210 

410 

235 

455 

210.5556 

411 

235.5556 

456 

211 

411.8 

236 

456.8 

211.1111 

412 

236.1111 

457 

211.6667 

413 

236.6667 

458 

212 

413.6  ! 

237 

458.6 

212.2222 

414 

237.2222 

459 

212.7778 

415 

237.7778 

460 

213 

415.4 

j 238 

460.4 

213.3333 

416 

1 238.3333 

461 

213.8889 

417 

1 238.8889 

462 

214 

417.2 

239 

462.2 

214.4444 

418 

239.4444 

463 

215 

419 

240 

464 

215.5556 

420 

240.5556 

465 

216 

420.8 

241 

465.8 

216.1111 

421 

241.1111 

466 

216.6667 

422 

241.6667 

467 

217 

422.6 

242 

467.6 

217.2222 

423 

•242.2222 

468 

217.7778 

424 

242.7778 

469 

218 

424.4 

243 

469.4 

218.3333 

425 

243.3333 

470 

218.8889 

426 

243.8889  . 

471 

219 

426.2 

244 

471.2 

219.4444 

427 

244.4444 

472 

220 

428 

245 

473 

220.5556 

429 

245.5556 

474 

221 

429.8  t 

246 

474.8 

221.1111 

430 

246.1111 

475 

221.6667 

431 

246.6667 

476 

222 

431.6 

247 

47  6.6 

222.2222 

432 

247.2222 

477 

222.7178 

433 

247.7778 

478 

223 

433.4 

248 

478.4 

223.3333 

434 

248.3333 

479 

223.8889 

435 

248.8889 

480 

224 

435.2 

249 

480.2 

224.4444 

436  i 

249.4444 

481 

225 

437 

250 

482 

225.5556 

438 

250.5556 

483 

226 

438.8 

251 

483.8 

226.1111 

439 

251.1111 

484 

226.6667 

440 

251.6667 

485 

227 

440.6 

252 

485.6 

2°7.2222 

441 

252.2222 

486 

227.7778 

442 

252.7778 

487 

228 

442.4 

253 

487.4 

228.3333 

443 

253.3333 

488 

228.8889 

444 

253.8&89 

489 

229 

444.2 

254 

489.2 

229.4444 

445 

254.4444 

490 

230 

446 

255 

491 

112 


1778 


APPENDIX. 


Table  of  Thermometric  Equivalents. — Concluded. 


c.° 

F.° 

C.° 

F.° 

C.° 

F.° 

c.°  .. 

F.° 

255.5556 

492 

275.5556 

528 

295.5556 

564 

315.5556 

600 

256 

492.8 

276 

528.8 

296 

564.8 

316 

600.8 

256.1111 

493 

276.1111 

529 

296.1111 

565 

316.1111 

601 

256.6667 

494 

276.6667 

530 

296.6667 

566 

316.6667 

602 

257 

494.6 

277 

530.6 

297 

566.6 

317 

602.6 

257.2222 

495 

277.2222 

531 

297.2222 

567 

317.2222 

603 

257.7778 

496 

277.7778 

532 

297.7778 

568 

317.7778 

604 

258 

496.4 

278 

532.4 

298 

568.4 

318 

604.4 

258.3333 

497 

278.3333 

533 

298.3333 

569 

318.3333 

605 

258.8889 

498 

278.8889 

534 

298.8889 

570 

318.8889 

606 

259 

498.2 

279 

534.2 

299 

570.2 

319 

606.2 

259.4444 

499 

279.4444 

535 

299.4444 

571 

319.4444 

607 

260 

500 

280 

536 

300 

572 

320 

608 

260.5556 

501 

280.5556 

537 

300.5556 

573 

320.5556 

609 

261 

501.8 

281 

537.8 

301 

573.8 

321 

609.8 

261.1111 

502 

281.1111 

538 

301.1111 

574 

321.1111 

610 

261.6667 

503 

281.6667 

539 

301.6667 

575 

321.6667 

611 

262 

503.6 

282 

539.6 

302 

575.6 

322 

611.6 

262.2222 

504 

282.2222 

540 

302.2222 

576 

322.2222 

612 

262.7778 

505 

282.7778 

541 

302.7778 

577 

322.7778 

613 

263 

505.4 

283 

541.4 

303 

577.4 

323 

613.4 

263.3333 

506 

283.3333  | 

542 

303.3333 

578 

323.3333 

614 

263.8889 

507 

283.8889  i 

543 

303.8889 

579 

323.8889 

615 

264 

507.2 

284 

543.2 

304 

579.2 

324 

615.2 

264.4444 

508 

284.4444 

544 

304.4444 

580 

324.4444 

616 

265 

509 

285 

545 

305 

581 

325 

617 

265.5556 

510 

285.5556 

546 

305.5556 

582 

325.5556 

618 

266 

510.8 

286 

546.8 

306 

582.8 

326 

618.8 

266.1111 

511 

286.1111 

547 

306.1111 

583 

326.1111 

619 

266.6667 

512 

286.6667 

548 

306.6667 

584 

326.6667 

620 

267 

512.6 

287 

548.6 

307 

584.6 

327 

620.6 

267.2222 

513 

287.2222 

549 

307.2222 

585 

327.2222 

621 

267.7778 

514 

287.7778 

550 

307.7778 

586 

327.7778 

622 

268 

514.4 

288 

550.4 

308 

586.4 

328 

622.4 

268.3333 

515 

288.3333 

551 

308.3333 

587 

328.3333 

623 

268.8889  * 

516 

288.8889 

552 

308.8889 

588 

328.8889 

624 

269 

516.2 

289 

552.2 

309 

588.2 

329 

624.2 

269.4444 

517 

289.4444 

553 

309.4444 

589 

329.4444 

625 

270 

518 

290 

554 

310 

590 

330 

626 

270.5556 

519 

290.5556 

555 

310.5556 

591 

330.5556 

627 

271 

519.8 

291 

555.8 

311 

591.8 

331 

627.8 

271.1111 

520 

! 291.1111 

556 

311.1111 

592 

331.1111 

628 

271.6667 

521 

291.6667 

557 

311.6667 

593 

331.6667 

629 

272 

521.6 

292 

557.6 

312 

593.6 

332 

629.6 

272.2222 

522 

292.2222 

558 

312.2222 

594 

332.2222 

630 

272.7778 

523 

292.7778 

559 

312.7778 

595 

332.7778 

631 

273 

523.4 

293 

559.4 

313 

595.4 

333 

631.4 

273.3333 

524 

293.3333 

560 

313.3333 

596 

333.3333 

632 

273.8889 

525 

293.8889 

561 

313.8889 

597 

333.8889 

633 

274 

525.2 

294 

561.2 

314 

597.2 

334 

! 633.2 

274.4444 

526 

294.4444 

562 

314.4444 

598 

334.4444 

634 

275 

527 

295 

563 

315 

599 

335 

635 

ALPHABETICAL  LIST  OF  OFFICIAL  DRUGS 


SHOWING  THE  PREPARATIONS  OF  THE  U.  S.  AND  BR.  PHARMACO- 
PEIAS CONTAINING  THEM. 


Acacias. 

Emulsum  Amygdalae,  TJ.  S. 

Mistura  Amygdalae,  Br. 

Cretae,  U.  * S'.,  Br. 

Glycyrrhizae  Composita,  TJ.  S. 

Guaiaci,  Br. 

Mucilago  Acaciae,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Pulvis  Amygdalae  Compositus,  Br. 

Cretae  Compositus,  U.  S. 

Tragacanthae  Compositus,  Br. 

Syrupus  Acaciae,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Trochisci,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Acidum  Aceticum. 

Acetum  Cantharidis,  Br. 

Opii,  U.  * S'. 

Scillae,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Acidum  Aceticum  Dilutum,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 
Emplastrum  Ammoniaci  cum  Hvdrargvro, 
U.S. 

Extractum  Colchici  Aceticum,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Conii,  U.  S. 

Eluidum,  TJ.  S. 

Ergotae  Fluidum,  U.  S. 

Nucis  Vomicae,  U.  S. 

Eluidum,  U.  S. 

Sanguinariae  Fluidum,  TJ.  S. 

Liquor  Ammonii  Acetatis,  U.  S. 

Fortior,  Br. 

Ferri  et  Ammonii  Acetatis,  TJ.  S. 

Morphinae  Acetatis,  Br. 

Oxymel,  Br. 

Scillae,  Br. 

Syrupus  Allii,  TJ.  S. 

Scillae,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Tinctura  Ferri  Acetatis,  Br. 

Sanguinariae,  U.  S. 

Acidum  Aceticum  Glaciale. 

Acetum  Cantharidis,  Br. 

Linimentum  Terebinth inae  Aceticum,  Br. 
Liquor  Ferri  Acetatis,  TJ.  S. 

Mistura  Creasoti,  Br. 

Acidum  Arsenosum. 

Liquor  Acidi  Arsenosi,  if.  S. 

Arsenical  is,  Br. 

Arsenici  Hydrochloricus)  Br. 

Potassii  Arsenitis,  U.  S. 

Acidum  Benzoicum. 

Tinctura  Camphorae  Composita,  Br. 

Opii  Ammoniata,  Br. 

Camphorata,  TJ.  S. 

Trochisci  Acidi  Benzoici,  Br. 

Acidum  Boricum. 

Glyceritum  Boroglvcerini,  TJ.  S. 

Unguentum  Acidi  Borici,  Br. 

Acidum  Carbolicum. 

Acidum  Carbolicum  Liquefaotum,  Br. 
Glyceritum  Acidi  Carbolici,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 
Suppositoria  Acidi  Carbolici  cum  Sapone,  Br. 
Unguentum  Acidi  Carbolici,  TJ.  S'.,  Br. 
Acidum  Chromicum. 

Liquor  Acidi  Chromici,  Br. 


Acidum  Citricum. 

Bismuthi  Citras,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Ferri  et  Quininae  Citras,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Solubilis,  TJ.  S. 

Strychninae  Citras,  U.  S. 

Liipior  Ferri  Citratis,  U.  S. 

Magnesii  Citratis,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Potassii  Citratis,  U.  S. 

Lithii  Citras  Effervescens,  U.  S. 

Magnesii  Citras  Effervescens,  TJ.  S'. 

Sodii  Citro-tartras  Effervescens,  Br. 

Syrupus  Acidi  Citrici,  U.  S. 

Vinum  Quininae,  Br. 

Acidum  Gallicum. 

Glyceritum  Acidi  Gallici,  Br. 

Acidum  Kydrochloricum. 

Acidum  Hydrochloricum  Dilutum,  U.  S.,  Br. 
Nitrohydrochloricum,  U.  S. 

Dilutum,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Liquor  Antimonii  Chloridi,  Br. 

Acidi  Arsenosi,  TJ.  S. 

Arsenici  Hydrochloricus,  Br. 

Ferri  Chloridi,  TJ.  S. 

Perchloridi,  Br. 

Zinci  Chloridi,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Acidum  Hydrocyanicum  Dilutum. 

Tinctura  Chloroformi  et  Morphinae,  Br. 

Vapor  Acidi  Hydrocyanici,  Br. 

Acidum  Hypopliosphorosum  Dilutum. 

Syrupus  Hypophosphitum  Compositum,  U.  S. 

Acidum  Lacticum. 

Acidum  Lacticum  Dilutum,  Br. 

Syrupus  Calcii  Lactophosphatis,  TJ.  S. 

Acidum  Nitricum. 

Acidum  Nitricum  Dilutum,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 
Nitrohydrochloricum,  TJ.  S. 

Dilutum,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Liquor  Ferri  Nitratis,  U.  S. 

Pernitratis,  Br. 

Hydrargyri  Nitratis  Acidus,  Br. 

Unguentum  Hydrargyri  Nitratis,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Acidum  Oleicum. 

Oleatum  Hydrargyri,  TJ.  S.}  Br. 

Veratrinae,  U.  S'. 

Zinci,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Acidum  Phosphoricum. 

Acidum  Phosphoricum  Dilutum,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 
Syrupus  Ferri  Phosphatis,  Br. 

Quininae  et  Strychninae  Phosphatum,  U.  S. 

Acidum  Salicylicum. 

Unguentum  Acidi  Salicylici,  Br. 

Acidum  Stearicum. 

Suppositoria  Glycerini,  U.  S. 

Acidum  Sulphuricum. 

Acidum  Sulphuricum  Aromaticum,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Dilutum,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Infusum  Cinchonae,  TJ.  S. 

Rosae  Acidum,  Br. 

Acidum  Tannicum. 

Collodium  Stypticum,  TJ.  S. 

Glyceritum  Acidi  Tannici,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

1779 


1780 


APPENDIX. 


Acidum  Tannicum. 

Suppositoria  Acidi  Tannici,  Br. 
cum  Sapone,  Br. 

Trochisei  Acidi  Tannici,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 
Unguentum  Acidi  Tannici,  U.  S. 
Aconitum. 

Extractum  Aconiti. 

Fluidum. 

Linimentum  Aconiti,  Br. 

Tinctura  Aconiti,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Aconitina. 

Unguentum  Aconitinae,  Br. 

Adeps. 

Adeps  Benzoinatus,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Ceratum,  U.  S. 

Camphorae,  TJ.  S. 

Cantharidis,  U.  S. 

(Unguentum,  Br.)  Resinae,  U.  S. 
Emplastrum  Resinae,  Br. 

Unguentum,  U.  S. 

Acidi  Carbolici,  U.  S. 

Tannici,  U.  S. 

Aconitine,  Br. 

Antimonii  Tartarati,  Br. 

Atropinae,  Br. 

Belladonnae,  U.  a S'.,  Br. 

Calaminae,  Br. 

Chrysarobini,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Creasoti,  Br. 

Elemi,  Br. 

Gallae,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Hydrargyri,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Ammoniati,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Iodidi  Rubri,  Br. 

Nitratis,  Br. 

Oxidi  Flavi,  TJ.  S. 

Rubri,  U.  S. 

Subchloridi,  Br. 

Iodi,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Iodoformi,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Picis  Liquidae,  TJ.  S. 

Plumbi  Acetatis,  Br. 

Carbonatis,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Iodidi,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Potassii  Iodidi,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Sabinae,  Br. 

Simplex,  Br. 

Staph  isagriae,  Br. 

Stramonii,  TJ.  S. 

Sulphuris,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Terebinthinae,  Br. 

Veratrinae,  U.  S. 

Zinci  Oxidi,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

JEther. 

Collodium,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Can thari datum,  TT.  S. 

Flexile,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Stypticum,  TJ.  S. 

Oleoresinae,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Oleum  AEthereum,  TJ.  S. 

Phosplioratum,  TJ.  S. 

Spiritus  jEtheris,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Compositus,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Tinctura  Chloroformi  et  Morphins?,  Br. 
iEther  Aceticus. 

Liquor  Epispasticus,  Br. 

Alcohol. 

Alcohol  Dilutum,  TJ.  S. 

Spiritus  Tenuior,  Br. 

Allium. 

Syrupus  Allii. 

Aloe  Barbadensis. 

Enema  Aloes,  Br. 

Extractum  Aloes  Barbadensis,  Br. 
Pilula  Aloes  Barbadensis,  Br. 


Aloe  Barbadensis. 

Pilula  Aloes  et  Ferri,  Br. 

Cambogiae  Composita,  Br. 

Pilula  Colocynthidis  Composita,  Br. 
et  Hyoscyami,  Br. 

Aloe  Socotrina. 

Aloes  Purificata. 

Decoctum  Aloes  Compositum,  Br. 

Extractum  Aloes,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Colocynthidis  Compositum,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Pilulae  Aloes,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 
et  Asafoetidae,  U.  S.,  Br. 
et  Ferri,  U.  S. 
et  Mastiches,  U.  S. 
et  Myrrhae,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Rhei  Compositae,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Tinctura  Aloes,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 
et  Myrrhae,  TJ.  S. 

Benzoini  Composita,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Vinum  Aloes,  Br. 

Althaea. 

Massa  Hydrargyri,  TJ.  S. 

Pilulae  Ferri  Carbonatis,  TJ.  S. 

Phosphori,  TJ.  S. 

Syrupus  Althaeae,  TJ.  S. 

Alumen. 

Alumen  Exsiccatum,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Glycerin um  Aluminis,  Br. 

Ammoniacum. 

Emplastrum  Ammoniaci  cum  Hydrargyro, 

TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Galbani,  Br. 

Emulsum  Ammoniaci,  TJ.  S. 

Mistura  Ammoniaci,  Br. 

Pilula  Scillae  Composita,  Br. 

Ipecacuanhae  cum  Scillae,  Br. 

Ammonii  Carbonas. 

Liquor  Ammonii  Acetatis,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Spiritus  Ammoniae  Aromaticus,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 
Ammonii  Chloridum. 

Liquor  Ammoniae  Fortior,  Br. 

Hydrargyri  Perchloridi,  Br. 

Trochisei  Ammonii  Chloridi,  TJ.  S. 
Amygdala  Amara. 

Oleum  Amygdalae  Amarae,  TJ.  S. 

Syrupus  Amygdalae,  TJ.  S. 

Amygdala  Dulcis. 

Emulsum  Amygdalae,  TJ.  S. 

Oleum  Amygdalae  Dulcis,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Pulvis  Amygdalae  Compositus,  Br. 

Syrupus  Amygdalae,  TJ.  S. 

Aniylum. 

Glyceritum  Amyli,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Mucilago  Amyli,  Br. 

Pulvis  Tragacanthae  Compositus,  Br. 
Suppositoria  Acidi  Tannici  cum  Sapone,  Br. 
Morph inae  cum  Sapone,  Br. 

Anisum. 

Aqua  Anisi,  Br. . 

Anthemis. 

Extractum  Anthemidis,  Br. 

Infusum  Anthemidis,  Br. 

Oleum  Anthemidis,  Br. 

Antimonii  et  Potassii  Tartras  (Antimonii 
Tartaratum,  Br.). 

Syrupus  Scillae  Compositus,  TJ.  S. 

Unguentum  Antimonii  Tartarati,  Bf. 

Vinum  Antimonii,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Antimonii  Oxidum. 

Pulvis  Antimonialis,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Antimonii  Sulphidum. 

Antimonii  Sulphidum  Purificatum,  TJ.  S.  (An- 
timonium  Nigrum  Purificatum,  Br.). 
Antimonium  Sulphuratum,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Liquor  Antimonii  Chloridi,  Br. 


ALPHABETICAL  LIST  OF  OFFICIAL  DRUGS. 


1781 


Antimonium  Sulphuratum. 

Pilulse  Antimonii  Composite,  U.  S.  (Pilula 
Hydrargyri  Sabcliloridi  Composita,  Br.). 

Apocynum. 

Extractum  Apocyni  Fluidum,  U.  S. 
Apomorphinse  Hydrochloras. 

Injectio  Apomorphinse  Hvpodermica,  Br. 

Aqua. 

Aqua  Destillata,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Aquse  Medicatse,  Br. 

Aqua  Ammoniae. 

Linimentum  Ammonise,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Spiritus  Ammonii  Aromaticus,  U.  S. 

Aqua  Ammoniae  Fortior. 

Linimentum  Campborse  Cornpositum,  Br. 
Liquor  Ammonii  Citratis  Fortior,  Br. 

Spiritus  Ammonise,  U.  S. 

Aromaticus,  Br. 

Fcetidus,  Br. 

Tincturse  Opii  Ammoniata,  Br. 

Aqua  Aurantii  Florum  Fortior. 

Aqua  Aurantii  Florum,  U.  S. 

Syrupus  Aurantii  Florum,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Aqua  Camphorae. 

Injectio  Apomorphinse  Hypodermica,  Br. 
Ergotinse  Hypodermica,  Br. 

Aqua  Menthse  Piperitse. 

Mistura  Ferri  Aromatica,  Br. 

Aqua  Rosse  Fortior. 

Aqua  Rosse,  U.  S. 

Unguentum  Aquse  Rosse,  U.  S. 

Argenti  Cyanidum. 

Acidum  Hydrocyanicum  Dilutum,  U.  S. 
Argenti  Nitras. 

Argenti  Nitras  Dilutus,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Fusus,  U.  S. 

Arnicse  Flores. 

Tinctura  Arnicse  Florum,  U.  S. 

Arnicae  Radix  (Rhizoma,  Br.). 

Emplastrum  Arnicse,  U.  S. 

Extractum  Arnicse  , U.  S. 

Radicis  Fluidum,  U.  S. 

Tinctura  Arnicse  Radicis,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Arseni  Iodidum. 

Liquor  Arseni  et  Hvdrargvri  Iodidi,  U.  S., 
Br. 

Asafcetida. 

Emulsum  Asafoetidse,  U.  S. 

Enema  Asafoetidse,  Br. 

Pilulse  Aloes  et  Asafoetidse,  U.  S.,  Br. 
Asafoetidse,  U.  S. 

Compositse,  Br. 

Spiritus  Ammonise  Fcetidus,  Br. 

Tinctura  Asafoetidse,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Asclepias. 

Extractum  Asclepiadis  Fluidum,  U.  S. 

Aspidium. 

Extractum  Filicis  Liquidum,  Br. 

Oleoresina  Aspidii,  U.  S. 

Aspidosperma. 

Extractum  Aspidosperraatis  Fluidum,  U.  S. 

Atropina. 

Unguentum  Atropinse,  Br. 

Atropinae  Sulphas. 

Lamellse  Atropinse,  Br. 

Liquor  Atropinse  Sulphatis,  Br. 

Aurantii  Amari  Cortex  (Aurantii  Cortex,  Br.). 
Extractum  Aurantii  Amari  Fluidum,  U.  S. 
Infusum  Aurantii,  Br. 

Cornpositum,  Br. 

Gentianse  Cornpositum,  Br. 

Spiritus  Armoracise  Compositus,  Br. 

Tinctura  Aurantii  Amari,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Cinchonse  Composita,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Gentianse  Composita,  U.  S.t  Br. 


Aurantii  Dulcis  Cortex. 

Oleum  Aurantii,  U.  Br. 

Syrupus  Aurantii,  U.  S. 

Tinctura  Aurantii  Dulcis,  U.  S. 

Aurantii  Florum. 

Oleum  Aurantii  Florum,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Baisamum  Tolutanura. 

Pilulse  Phosphori,  Br. 

Syrupus  Tolutanus,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Tinctura  Benzoini  Composita,  U.  S.,  Br. 
Tolutana,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Barii  Dioxidum. 

Aqua  Hydrogenii  Dioxidi,  U.  S. 

Belladonnse  Folia. 

Extractum  Belladonnse  (Foliorum  Alcohol  icum, 

U.  S.),  Br. 

Emplastrum  Belladonnse,  U.  S. 

Unguentum  Belladonnse,  U.  S. 

Succus  Belladonnse,  Br. 

Tinctura  Belladonnse  Foliorum,  U.  S.,  Br. 
Belladonnas  Radix. 

Emplastrum  Belladonnse,  Br. 

Extractum  Belladonnse  Alcoholicum,  Br. 
Belladonnse  Radicis  Fluidum,  U.  S. 
Linimentum  Belladonnse,  U.  S.,  Br. 
Unguentum  Belladonnse,  Br. 

Benzoinum. 

Adeps  Benzoinatus,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Tinctura  Benzoini,  U.  S. 

Composita,  U.  S .,  Br. 

Unguentum  Cetacei,  Br. 

Bismuthi  Citras. 

Bismuth i et  Ammonii  Citras,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Liquor  Bismuthi  et  Ammonii  Citratis,  Br. 
Bismuthi  Subnitras. 

Trochisci  Bismuthi,  Br. 

Borax,  Br.  (Sodii  Boras,  U.  S.). 

I Glycerinum  Boracis,  Br. 

Mel  Boracis,  Br. 

Unguentum  Aquse  Rosse,  U.  S. 

Bryonia. 

Tinctura  Bryonise,  U.  S. 

Buchu. 

Extractum  Buchu  Fluidum,  U.  S. 

Infusum  Buchu,  Br. 

Tinctura  Buchu,  Br. 

Caffeina. 

Caffeina  Citrata,  U.  S.  (Citras,  Br.). 
Eflervescens,  U.  S. 

Calamus. 

Extractum  Calami  Fluidum,  U.  S. 

Calcii  Carbonas  Prsecipitatus. 

Pulvis  Morphinse  Compositus,  TJ.  S. 

Syrupus  Calcii  Lactophosphatis,  U.  S. 
Trochisci  Bismuthi,  Br. 

Calcii  Chloridum. 

Liquor  Calcii  Chloridi,  Br. 

Calcii  Hypophosphis. 

Syrupus  Hypophosphitum,  U.  S. 

Calcii  Phosphas  Prsecipitatus. 

Pulvis  Antimonialis,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Calcii  Sulphas  Exsiccatus. 

Calx  Sulphurata,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Calendula. 

Tinctura  Calendulse,  U.  S. 

Calumba. 

j Extractum  Calumbse,  Br. 

Fluidum,  U.  S. 
j Infusum  Calumbse,  Br. 

Mistura  Ferri  Aromatica,  Br. 

Tinctura  Calumbse,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Calx. 

i Calcii  Hydras,  Br. 


1782 


APPENDIX. 


Calx. 

Liquor  Calcis,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Syrupus  Calcis,  TJ.  S.  (Liquor  Calcis  Sacchara- 
tus,  Br.). 

Calx  Chlorata  (Chlorinata,  Br.). 

Liquor  Calcis  Chlorinats,  Br. 

Cambogia. 

Pilula  Cambogis  Composita,  Br. 

Piluls  Cathartics  Com  posits,  U.  S. 

Camphora. 

Aqua  Camphors,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Linimentum  Aconiti,  Br. 

Belladonns,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Camphors,  U.  S.}  Br. 

Compositum,  Br. 

Chloroformi,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Hydrargyri,  Br. 

Opii,  Br. 

Saponis,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Sinapis  Compositum,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Terebinthins,  Br. 

Aceticum,  Br. 

Pulvis  Morphins  Compositus,  TJ.  S. 

Spiritus  Camphors,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

TincturaOpii  Camphorata  (Tinctura  Camphors 
Composita,  Br.). 

Unguentum  Hydrargyri  Compositum,  Br. 

Cannabis  Indica. 

Extractum  Cannabis  Indies,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Fluidum,  TJ.  S. 

Tinctura  Cannabis  Indies,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Cantharis. 

Acetum  Cantharidis,  Br. 

Ceratum  Cantharidis,  TJ.  S. 

Charta  Epispastica,  Br. 

Collodium  Cantliaridatum,  TJ.  S. 

Emplastrum  Calefaciens,  Br. 

Cantharidis,  Br. 

Liquor  Epispasticus,  Br. 

Tinctura  Cantharidis,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Unguentum  Cantharidis,  Br. 

Capsicum. 

Extractum  Capsici  Fluidum,  TJ.  S. 

Oleoresina  Capsici,  TJ.  S. 

Tinctura  Capsici,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Carbo  Animalis. 

Carbo  Animalis  Purificatus,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Carbo  Ligni. 

Cataplasm  a Carbon  is,  Br. 

Cardamomum. 

Extractum  Colocynthidis  Compositum,  TJ.  S., 
Br. 

Pulvis  Aromaticus,  TJ.  S.  (Cinnamomi  Com-  [ 
positus,  Br.). 

Crets  Aromaticus,  Br. 

Tinctura  Cardamomi,  TJ.  S. 

Composita,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Gentians  Composita,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Rhei,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Vinum  Aloes,  Br. 

Carum. 

Aqua  Carui,  Br. 

Confectio  Opii,  Br. 

Piperis,  Br. 

Oleum  Cari,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Pulvis  Opii  Compositus,  Br. 

Tinctura  Cardamomi  Composita,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Sen  ns,  Br. 

Caryophyllus. 

Infusum  Aurantii  Compositum,  Br. 

Caryophvlli,  Br. 

Mistura  Ferri  Aromatica,  Br. 

Oleum  Caryophvlli,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Tinctura  Lavandulae  Composita,  TJ.  S. 

Vinum  Opii,  U.  S„  Br. 


Cascarilla. 

| Infusum  Cascarills,  Br. 

Tinctura  Cascarills,  Br. 

Cassia  Fistula. 

Confectio  Senns,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Castanea. 

Extractum  Castanes  Fluidum,  TJ.  S. 

Catechu. 

Infusum  Catechu,  Br. 

Pulvis  Catechu  Compositus,  Br. 
Tinctura  Catechu  Composita,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 
Trochisci  Catechu,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Cera  Alba. 

Ceratum,  TJ.  S. 

Camphors,  TJ.  S. 

Cetacei,  TJ.  S. 

Plumbi  Subacetatis,  TJ.  S. 

Charta  Epispastica,  Br. 

Unguentum  Cetacei,  Br. 

Simplex,  Br. 

Cera  Flava. 

Ceratum  Cantharidis,  TJ.  S. 

Resins,  TJ.  S. 

Emplastrum  Califaciens,  Br. 
Cantharidis,  Br. 

Galbani,  Br. 

Picis,  Br. 

Burgundies,  TJ.  S. 

Resins,  TJ.  S. 

Saponis  Fuscum,  Br. 

Pilula  Phosphori,  Br. 

Unguentum,  TJ.  S. 

Acidi  Carbolici,  TJ.  S. 

Cantharidis,  Br. 

Hydrargyri  Compositum,  Br. 

Oxidi  Flavi,  U.  S. 

Rubri,  U.  S. 

Picis  Liquids.  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Resins,  Br. 

Sabins,  Br. 

Terebinthins,  Br. 

Cetaceum. 

Ceratum  Cetacei,  TJ.  S. 

Charta  Epispastica,  Br. 

Unguentum  Aqus  Ross,  TJ.  S. 

Cetacei,  Br. 

Cetrariae. 

Decoctum  Cetraris,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Chimaphila. 

Extractum  Chimaphils  Fluidum,  TJ.  S. 

Chirata. 

Extractum  Chirats  Fluidum,  TJ.  S. 
Infusum  Chirats,  Br. 

Tinctura  Chirats,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Chloral. 

Syrupus  Chloral,  Br. 

Chloroformum. 

Aqua  Chloroformi,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Emulsum  Chloroformi,  TJ.  S. 
Linimentum  Chloroformi,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 
Spiritus  Chloroformi,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 
Tinctura  Chloroformi  Composita,  Br. 
et  Morphins,  Br. 
Chrysarobinum. 

Unguentum  Chrysarobini,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Cimicifuga. 

Extractum  Ciinicifugs,  TJ.  S. 

Fluidum,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Tinctura  Cimicifugs,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Cinchona. 

Extractum  Cinchons,  TJ.  S. 

Fluidum,  U.  S. 

Tinctura  Cinchons,  TJ.  S. 

Cinchona  Rubra. 

Decoctum  Cinchona,  Br. 


ALPHABETICAL  LIST  OF  OFFICIAL  DRUGS. 


1783 


Cinchona  Rubra. 

Extractum  Cinchona  Liquidum,  Br. 

Infusum  Cinchona  Acidum,  Br. 

Mistura  Ferri  Aromatica,  Br. 

Tinctura  Cinchona,  Br. 

Composita,  U.  S.}  Br. 

Cinnamomum  Cassia. 

Oleum  Cinnamoini,  U.  S. 

Tinctura  Cardamomi  Composita,  U.  S. 

Catechu  Composita,  U.  S. 

Lavandula  Composita,  U.  S. 

Vinum  Opii,  U.  S. 

Cinnamomum  Zeylanicum. 

Aqua  Cinnamomi,  Br. 

Decoctum  Hamatoxyli,  Br. 

Infusum  Catechu,  Br. 

Oleum  Cinnamomi,  Br. 

Pul  vis  Aromaticus,  U.  S.  (Cinnamomi  Com- 
posite, Br.). 

Catechu  Composite,  Br. 

Creta  Aromaticus,  Br. 

Kino  Compositus,  Br. 

Tinctura  Cardamomi  Composita,  Br. 

Catechu,  Br. 

Cinnamomi,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Lavandula  Composita,  Br. 

Vinum  Opii,  Br. 

Coca. 

Extractum  Coca  Fluidum,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Cocainse  Hydrochloras. 

Lamella  Cocaina,  Br. 

Coccus. 

Tinctura  Cardamomi  Composita,  U.  S.,  Br. 
Cinchona  Composita,  Br. 

Cocci,  Br. 

Colchici  Radix. 

Extractum  Colchici  (Radicis,  U.  S.),  Br. 
Aceticum,  Br. 

Radicis  Fluidum,  U.  S. 

Vinum  Colchici  (Radicis,  U.  S.),  Br. 

Colchici  Semen. 

Extractum  Colchici  Seminis  Fluidum,  U.  S. 
Tinctura  Colchici  Seminis,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Vinum  Colchici  Seminis,  U.  S. 

Colocynthis. 

Extractum  Colocynthidis,  U.  S. 

Compositum,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Pilula  Colocynthidis  Composita,  Br. 

et  Hyoscyami,  Br. 

Pilula  Cathartica  Composita,  U.  S. 

Cathartica  Vegetabilis,  TJ.  S. 

Conii  Fructus. 

Extractum  Conii,  U.  S. 

Fluidum,  U.  S. 

Tinctura  Conii,  Br. 

Convallaria. 

Extractum  Convallaria  Fluidum,  U.  S. 

Copaiba. 

Massa  Copaiba,  U.  S. 

Coriandrum. 

Confectio  Senna,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Oleum  Coriandri,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Syrupus  Rhei,  Br. 

Tinctura  Rhei,  Br. 

Senna,  Br. 

Creosotum. 

Aqua  Creosoti,  U.  S. 

Mistura  Creasoti,  Br. 

Unguentum  Creasoti,  Br. 

Vapor  Creasoti,  Br. 

Creta  Prseparata. 

Hydrargyrum  cum  Creta,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Mistura  Creta,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Pul  vis  Creta  Aromaticus,  Br. 
cum  Opio,  Br. 


Creta  Prseparata. 

Pulvis  Creta  Compositus,  U.  S. 

Trochisci  Creta,  U.  S. 

Crocus. 

Decoctum  Aloes  Compositum,  Br. 

Pilula  Aloes  et  Myrrha,  Br. 

Pulvis  Creta  Aromaticus,  Br. 

Tinctura  Cinchona  Composita,  Br. 

Croci,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Opii  Ammoniata,  Br. 

Rhei,  Br. 

Cubeba. 

Extractum  Cubeba  Fluidum,  U.  S. 

Oleoresina  Cubeba,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Tinctura  Cubeba,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Cusso. 

Extractum  Cusso  Fluidum,  U.  S. 

Infusum  Cusso,  Br. 

Cypripedium. 

Extractum  Cypripedii  Fluidum,  U.  S. 

Digitalis. 

Extractum  Digitalis,  U.  S. 

Fluidum,  U.  S. 

Infusum  Digitalis,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Tinctura  Digitalis,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Dulcamara. 

Extractum  Dulcamara  Fluidum,  U.  S. 

Elaterinum. 

Pulvis  Elaterinii  Compositus,  Br. 

Trituratio  Elaterini,  TJ.  S. 

Ergot  a. 

Ergotinum,  Br. 

Extractum  Ergota,  U.  S. 

Fluidum,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Infusum  Ergota,  Br. 

Tinctura  Ergota,  Br. 

Vinum  Ergota,  U.  S. 

Eriodictyon. 

Extractum  Eriodictyi  Fluidum,  U.  S. 

Eucalyptus. 

Extractum  Eucalypti  Fluidum,  U.  S. 

Oleum  Eucalypti,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Euonymus. 

Extractum  Euonymi,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Eupatorium. 

Extractum  Eupatorii  Fluidum,  U.  S. 

Extractum  Glycyrrhizse. 

Trochisci  Ammonii  Chloridi,  TJ.  S. 
Glycvrrhiza  et  Opii,  U.  S. 

Extractum  Glycyrrhizse  Purum. 

Mistura  Glycvrrhiza  Composita,  U.  S. 

Farina  Tritici. 

I Cataplasrna  Fermenti,  Br. 

Fel  Bovis. 

Fel  Bovis  Purificatum,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Ferri  Carbonas  Saccharatus. 

Pilula  Ferri  Carbonatis,  Br. 

Ferri  Citras. 

Ferri  et  Quinina  Citras,  TJ.  S. 

Solubilis,  U.  S. 

Vinum  Ferri  Amarum,  U.  S. 

Ferri  et  Ammonii  Citras. 

Ferri  et  Strychnina  Citras. 

Vinum  Ferri  Citratis,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Ferri  Lactas. 

Syrupus  Hypophosphitum  cum  Ferro,  TJ.  S. 

Ferri  Oxidum  Hydratum. 

Emplastrum  Ferri,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Trochisci  Ferri,  U.  S. 

Ferri  Phosphas  Solubilis. 

Syrupus  Ferri,  Quinina  et  Strychnina  Plios- 
phaturn,  TJ.  S , 


1784 


APPENDIX. 


Ferri  Sulphas. 

Ferri  Carbon  as  Saccharatus,  U.  S. 

Sulphas  Exsiccatus,  U.  S. 

Granulatus,  U.  S. 

Liquor  Ferri  Subsulphatis,  U.  S. 

Tersulphatis  (Persulphatis,  Br.),  U.  S. 
Massa  Ferri  Carbonatis,  U.  S. 

Mistura  Ferri  Composita,  TJ.  S. 

Pilula  Ferri,  Br. 

Pilulfe  Aloes  et  Ferri,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Ferri  Carbonatis,  U.  S. 

Syrupus  Ferri  Phosphatis,  Br. 

Ferrum. 

Ferri  Iodidum  Saccharatum,  U.  S. 

Liquor  Ferri  Chloridi  (Perchloridi,  Br.),  U.  S. 

Pernitratis,  Br. 

Mistura  Ferri  Aromatica,  Br. 

Pilulae  (Pilula,  Br.)  Ferri  Iodidi,  U.  S. 
Syrupus  Ferri  Iodidi,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Vinum  Ferri,  Br. 

Ferrum  Reductum. 

Piluke  Ferri  Iodidi,  U.  S. 

Trochisci  Ferri  Redacti,  Br. 

Ficus. 

Confectio  Sennae,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Fceniculum. 

Aqua  Foeniculi,  Br. 

Oleum  Fceniculi,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Pulvis  Glycyrrhizae  Cornpositus,  Br. 
Frangula. 

Extractum  Frangulae  Flu  id  uni,  TJ.  S. 

Rliamni  Frangulae,  Br. 

Liquidum,  Br. 

Galbanum. 

Emplastrum  Galbani,  Br. 

Pilula  Asafoetidse  Composita,  Br. 

Galla. 

Tinctura  Gallse,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Unguentum  Galla?,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 
cum  Opio,  Br. 

Gelsemium. 

Extractum  Gelsemii  Alcoholicum,  Br. 

Fluidum,  TJ.  S. 

Tinctura  Gelsemii,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Gentiana. 

Extractum  Gentianas,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Fluidum,  TJ.  S. 

Infusuin  Gentianae  Compositum,  Br. 

Tinctura  Gentianae  Composita,  U.  S.  Br. 

Geianium. 

Extractum  Geranii  Fluidum,  TJ.  S. 
Glycerinum. 

Elixir  Pliosphori,  TJ.  S. 

Extractum  Apocyni  Fluidum,  TJ.  S. 
Aspidospermatis  Fluidum,  U.  S. 

Castaneae  Fluidum,  TJ.  S. 

Cinchonae  Fluidum,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Geranii  Fluidum,  TJ.  S. 

Gossypii  Radicis  Fluidum,  TJ.  S. 
Hamamelidis  Fluidum,  TJ.  S. 

Hydrastis  Fluidum,  TJ.  S. 

Krameriae  Fluidum,  TJ.  S. 

Pareirae  Fluidum,  TJ.  S. 

Pruni  Virginians?  Fluidum,  TJ.  S. 

Rliois  Glabrae  Fluidum,  TJ.  S. 

Rosae  Fluidum,  TJ.  S. 

Rubi  Fluidum,  U.  S. 

Sarsaparilla1  Fluidum  Compositum,  U.  S. 
Uvae  Ursi  Fluidum,  TJ.  S. 

Glycerinum  Acidi  Carbolici,  Br. 

Gallici,  Br. 

Tannici,  Br. 

Alu minis,  Br. 

Amyli,  Br. 


Glycerinum. 

Glycerinum  Boracis;  Br. 

Plumbi  Subacetatis,  Br. 

Tragacanthae,  Br. 

Glyceritum  Acidi  Carbolici,  TJ.  S. 

Tannici,  TJ.  S. 

Amyli,  TJ.  S. 

Boroglycerini,  TJ.  S. 

Hydrastis,  TJ.  S. 

Vitelli,  TJ.  S. 

Lamellae,  Br. 

Linimenturn  Iodi,  Br. 

Potassii  Iodidi  cum  Sapone,  Br. 

Liquor  Ferri  et  Ammonii  Acetatis,  TJ.  S. 

Massa  Hydrargyri,  TJ.  S. 

Mel  Boracis,  Br. 

Pilula  Aloes  et  Myrrhae,  Br. 

Rhei  Composita,  Br. 

Saponis  Composita,  Br. 

Pilulse  Phosphori,  TJ.  S. 

Suppositoria  Glycerinae,  TJ.  S. 

Syrupus  Althaeae,  U.  S. 

Ferri  Quinina?  et  Strychninae  Phosphatum, 

TJ.  S. 

Ipecacuanhae,  TJ.  S. 

Picis  Liquidae,  TJ.  S. 

Pruni  Virginianae,  TJ.  S. 

Rhei,  TJ.  S. 

Tinctura.  Cardamomi  Composita,  TJ.  S. 
Cinchonae,  TJ.  S. 

Composita,  U.  S. 

Cinnamomi,  TJ.  S. 

Gallse,  TJ.  S. 

Kino,  U.S.,  Br. 

Lactucarii,  TJ.  S. 

Opii  Camphorata,  TJ.  S. 

Rhei,  U.  S. 

Aromatica,  TJ.  S. 

Dulcis,  TJ.  S. 

Unguentum  Iodi,  Br. 

Glycyrrhiza. 

Confectio  Terebinthinae,  Br. 

Hecoctum  Sarsaparillae  Compositum,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 
Extractum  Glycyrrhizae,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Fluidum,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Pur u in,  U.  S. 

Sarsaparillae  Fluidum  Compositum,  TJ.  S. 
Glycyrrhizinum  Ammoniatum,  TJ.  S. 

Infusum  Lini,  Br. 

Massa  (Pilula,  Br.)  Hydrargyri,  TJ.  S. 

Mistura  Sennae  Composita,  Br. 

Pilula  Ferri  Iodidi,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Pulvis  Glycyrrhizae  Cornpositus,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Morphinae  Cornpositus,  TJ.  S. 

Syrupus  Sarsaparillae  Cornpositus,  TJ.  S. 
Tinctura  Aloes,  TJ.  S. 
et  Myrrhae,  TJ.  S. 

Gossypii  Radicis  Cortex. 

Extractum  Gossypii  Radicis  Fluidum,  U.  S. 
Gossypium  Puriiicatum. 

Pyroxylinum,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Granati  Radicis  Cortex. 

Decoctum  Granati  Radicis,  Br. 

Grindelise. 

Extractum  Grindeliae  Fluidum,  U.  S. 

Guaiaci  Lignum. 

Decoctum  Sarsaparillae  Compositum,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 
Guaiaci  Resina. 

Mistura  Guaiaci,  Br. 

Pilulae  Antimonii  Compositae,  TJ.  S.  (Pilula  Hy- 
drargyri Subchloridi  Composita,  Br.). 
Tinctura  Guaiaci,  TJ.  S. 

Ammoniata,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Guar  ana. 

I Extractum  Guaranae  Fluidum,  U.  S. 


ALPHABETICAL  LIST  OF  OFFICIAL  DRUGS. 


1785 


Gutta  Percha. 

Liquor  Gutta  Percha,  Br. 

Hasmatoxylon. 

Pecoctum  H*matoxvli,  Br. 

Extractum  H*matoxvli,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Hamamelis. 

Extractum  Hamamelidis  Fluidum,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Humulus. 

Extractum  Lupuli,  Br. 

Infusum  Lupuli,  Br. 

Lupulinum,  U.  S .,  Br. 

Tinctura  Humuli,  U.  S. 

Lupuli,  Br. 

Hydrargyri  Chloridum  Corrosivum. 

Liquor  Hydrargyri  Perchloridi,  Br. 

Lotio  Hydrargyri  Flava,  Br. 

Hydrargyri  Chloridum  Mite. 

Lotio  Hydrargyri  Nigra,  Br. 

Pilul*  Antimonii  Composite,  U.  S.  (Pilula.j 
Hydrargyri  Subchloridi  Composita,  Br.).  \ 

Cathartic*  Composita?,  U.  S. 

Unguentum  Hydrargyri  Subchloridi,  Br. 

Hydrargyri  Iodidum  Rubrum. 

Liquor  Arseni  et  Hydrargyri  Iodidi,  U.  S.,  Br. 
Unguentum  Hydrargyri  Iodidi  Rubri,  Br. 
Hydrargyri  Oxidum  Flavum. 

Oleatum  Hydrargyri,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Unguentum  Hydrargyri  Oxidi  Flavi,  U.  S. 

Hydrargyri  Oxidum  Rubrum. 

Liquor  Hydrargyri  Nitratis,  U.  S. 

Unguentum  Hydrargyri  Oxidi  Rubri,  U.  S., 
Br. 

Hydrargyrum. 

Emplastrum  Ammoniaci  cum  Hydrargvro, 
U.  S.,  Br. 

Hydrargyri,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Hydrargyrum  cum  Creta,  U.  S.,  Br. 
Linimentum  Hydrargyri,  Br. 

Liquor  Hydrargyri  Nitratis  Acidus,  Br. 

Massa  (Pilula,  Br.)  Hydrargyri,  U.  S. 
Suppositoria  Hydrargyri,  Br. 

Unguentum  Hydrargyri,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Compositum,  Br. 

Hydrargyrum  Ammoniatum. 

Unguentum  Hydrargyri  Ammoniati,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Hydrastis. 

Extractum  Hydrastis  Fluidum,  U.  S.,  Br. 
Glyceritum  Hydrastis,  U.  S. 

Tinctura  Hydrastis,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Hyoscyamus. 

Extractum  Hyoscyami,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Fluidum,  U.  S. 

Pi  1 ul*  Cathartic*  Vegetables,  U.  S. 

Colocynthidis  et  Hyoscyami,  Br. 

Suceus  Hyoscyami,  Br. 

Tinctura  Hyoscyami,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Ichthyocolla. 

Emplastrum  Ichthyocolla,  U.  S. 

Iodoformum. 

Suppositoria  Iodoformi,  Br. 

Unguentum  Iodoformi,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Iodum. 

Linimentum  Iodi,  Br. 

Liquor  Iodi,  Br. 

Compositus,  U.  S. 

Sulpliuris  Iodidum,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Syrupus  Ferri  Iodidi,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Tinctura  Iodi,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Unguentum  Iodi,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Vapor  Iodi,  Br. 

Ipecacuanha. 

Extractum  Ipecacuanh*  Fluidum,  U.  S. 

Pilula  Conii  Composita,  Br. 


Ipecacuanha. 

Pilula  Ipecacuanh*  cum  Scilla,  Br. 
Pulvis  Ipecacuanha?  et  Opii,  U.  S. 

Compositus,  Br. 

Syrupus  Ipecacuanh*,  U.  S. 

Tinctura  Ipecacuanh*  et  Opii,  U.  S. 
Trochisci  Ipecacuanh*,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Morph  in*  et  Ipecacuanh*,  U.  S.,  Br. 
Vinum  Ipecacuanh*,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Iris. 

Extractum  Iridis,  17.  S. 

Fluidum,  U.  S. 

Jalapa. 

Extractum  Jalap*,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Pilula  Scammonii  Composita,  Br. 

Pilul*  Cathartic*  Composite,  U.  S. 
Vegetables,  U.  S. 

Pulvis  Jalap*  Compositus,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Scammonii  Compositus,  Br. 

Resina  Jalap*,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Tinctura  Jalap*,  Br. 

Juglans. 

Extractum  Juglandis,  U.  S. 

Kino. 

Pulvis  Catechu  Compositus,  Br. 

Kino  Compositus,  Br. 

Tinctura  Kino,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Krameria. 

Extractum  Krameri*,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Fluidum,  U.  S. 

Infusum  Krameri*,  Br. 

Pulvis  Catechu  Compositus,  Br. 
Tinctura  Krameri*,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Lactucarium. 

Syrupus  Lactucarii,  U.  S. 

Tinctura  Lactucarii,  U.  S. 

Lappa. 

Extractum  Lapp*  Fluidum,  U.  S. 

Leptandra. 

Extractum  Leptandr*,  U.  S. 

Fluidum,  IT.  S. 

Pilul*  Cathartic*  Vegetabiles,  U.  S. 
Limonis  Cortex. 

Infusum  Aurantii  Compositum,  Br. 

Gentian*  Compositum,  Br. 

Oleum  Limonis,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Spiritus  Limonis,  U.  S. 

Syrupus  Limonis,  Br. 

Tinctura  Limonis,  Br. 

Limonis  Succus. 

Syrupus  Limonis,  Br. 

Linum. 

Cataplasma  Lini,  Br. 

Infusum  Lini,  Br. 

Lini  Farina,  Br. 

Oleum  Lini,  U.  S.f  Br. 

Liquor  Calcis. 

Linimentum  Calcis,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Lotio  Hydrargyri  Flava,  Br. 

Nigra,  Br. 

Liquor  Ferri  Chloridi. 

Tinctura  Ferri  Chloridi,  U.  S. 

Liquor  Ferri  Citratis. 

Ferri  Citras,  U.  S. 

et  Arnmonii  Citras,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Lithii  Carbonas. 

Liquor  Lithi*  Effervescens,  Br. 

Lithii  Citras  Effervescens,  U.  S. 
Lobelia. 

Extractum  Lobeli*  Fluidum,  U.  S. 
Tinctura  Lobeli*,  U.  S.,  Br. 

AStherea,  Br. 


1786 


APPENDIX. 


Lupulinum. 

Extractum  Lupulini  Fluidum,  U.  S. 
Oleoresina  Lupulini,  U.  S. 

Magnesia. 

Massa  Copaibae,  U.  S. 

Pulvis  Rliei  Gompositus,  U.  S.y  Br. 

Magnesii  Carbonas. 

Liquor  Magnesii  Carbonatis,  Br. 

Citratis,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Magnesia,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Trocliisci  Bismut  hi,  Br. 

Magnesii  Sulphas. 

Enema  Magnesii  Sulphatis,  Br. 

Infusum  Sennae  Compositum,  U.  S. 

Magnesii  Sulphas  Effervescens,  Br. 

Mistura  Sennae  Composita,  Br. 

Manna. 

Infusum  Sennae  Compositum,  U.  S. 

Mastiche. 

Pilulae  Aloes  et  Mastiches,  U.  S. 

Matico. 

Extractum  Matico  Fluidum,  U.  S. 

Infusum  Maticae,  Br. 

Tinctura  Matico,  U.  S. 

Mel. 

Confectio  Piperis,  Br. 

Rosae,  U.  S. 

Scammonii,  Br. 

Terebinthinae,  Br. 

Massa  Ferri  Carbonatis,  U.  S. 

Mel  Boracis,  Br. 

Despumatum,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Rosae,  U.  S. 

Oxymel,  Br. 

Scillae,  Br. 

Mentha  Piperita. 

Oleum  Menthae  Piperitae,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Spiritus  Menthae  Piperitae,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Mentha  Viridis. 

Oleum  Menthae  Viridis,  U.  S.f  Br. 

Spiritus  Menthae  Viridis,  U.  S. 

Mezereum. 

Decoctum  Sarsaparillae  Compositum,  U.  S.,  Br. 
Extractum  Mezerei  vEthereuru,  Br. 

Fluidum,  U.  S. 

Sarsaparillae  Fluidum  Compositum,  U.  S. 

Morphinae  Acetas. 

Injectio  Morphinae  Hypodermica,  Br. 

Liquor  Morphinae  Acetatis,  Br. 

Morphinae  Hydrochloras. 

Liquor  Morphinae  Bimeconatis,  Br. 

Hydrochloratis,  Br. 

Suppositoria  Morphinae,  Br. 
cum  Sapone,  Br. 

Tinctura  Chloroform i et  Morphinae,  Br. 
Trocliisci  Morphinae,  Br. 
et  Ipecacuanhae,  Br. 

Morphinae  Sulphas. 

Pulvis  Morphinae  Compositus,  U.  S. 

Trocliisci  Morphinae  et  Ipecacuanhae,  U.  S. 

Moschus. 

Tinctura  Moschi,  U.  S. 

Myristica. 

Oleum  Myristicae,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Expressum,  Br. 

Pulvis  Aromaticus,  U.  S. 

Catechu  Compositus,  Br. 

Cretae  Compositus,  Br. 

Spiritus  Armoraciae  Compositus,  Br. 

Tinctura  Lavandulae  Composita,  U.  S.,  Br. 
Trochisci  Sodii  Bicarbon  at  is,  TJ.  S. 

Myrrha. 

Decoctum  Aloes  Compositum,  Br. 

Mistura  Ferri  Composita,  TJ.  S.}  Br. 


Myrrha. 

Pilulae  Aloes  et  Myrrhae,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Asafoetidae  Composita,  Br. 

Rhei  Compositae,  Br. 

Tinctura  Aloes  et  Myrrhae,  TJ.  S. 

Myrrhae,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Nux  Vomica. 

Extractum  Nucis  Vomicae,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Fluidum,  TJ.  S. 

Tinctura  Nucis  Vomicae,  U.  S.,  Br.  (made  from 
the  extract). 

Oleoresina  Capsici. 

Emplastrum  Capsici,  TJ.  S. 

Oleoresina  Cubebae. 

Trochisci  Cubebae,  TJ.  S. 

Oleum  Adipis. 

Unguentum  Hydrargyri  Nitratis,  TJ.  S. 

Oleum  ^thereum. 

Spiritus  jEtheris  Compositus,  TJ.  S. 

Oleum  Amygdalae  Amarum. 

Aqua.  Amygdalae  Amarum,  TJ.  S. 

Spiritus  Amygdalae  Amarum,  TJ.  S. 

Oleum  Amygdalae  Expressum. 

Emulsum  Cliloroformi,  TJ.  S. 

Oleum  Phosphoratum,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Unguentum  Aquae  Rosae,  TJ.  S. 

Cetacei,  Br. 

Resinae,  Br. 

Simplex,  Br. 

Oleum  Anisi. 

Aqua  Anisi,  TJ.  S. 

Elixir  Phosphori,  TJ.  S. 

Essentia  Phosphori,  Br. 

Spiritus  Aurantii  Compositus,  TJ.  S. 

Syrupus  Sarsaparillae  Compositus,  TJ.  S. 
Tinctura  Camphorae  Composita,  Br. 

Opii  Ammoniata,  Br. 

Camphorata,  TJ.  S. 

Trochisci  Glycyrrhizae  et  Opii,  U.  S. 

Oleum  Aurantii  Corticis. 

Spiritus  Aurantii,  TJ.  S. 

Compositum,  TJ.  S. 

Myrciae,  TJ.  S. 

Oleum  Cajuputi. 

Linimentum  Crotonis,  Br. 

Spiritus  Cajuputi,  Br. 

Oleum  Carvi. 

Confectio  Scammonii,  Br. 

Pilulae  Aloes  Barbadensis,  Br. 

Spiritus  Juniperi  Compositus,  TJ.  S. 

Oleum  Cinnamomi. 

Aqua  Cinnamomi,  TJ.  S. 

Spiritus  Cinnamomi,  TJ.  S.y  Br. 

Oleum  Coriandri. 

Spiritus  Aurantii  Compositus,  TJ.  S. 

Syrupus  Sennae,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Oleum  Eucalypti. 

Unguentum  Eucalypti,  Br. 

Oleum  Foeniculi. 

Aquae  Foeniculi,  TJ.  S. 

Pulvis  Glycyrrhizae  Compositus,  TJ.  S. 

Spiritus  Juniperi  Compositus,  TJ.  S. 

Oleum  Gaultheriae. 

Spiritus  Gaultheriae,  TJ.  S. 

Syrupus  Sarsaparillae  Compositus,  TJ.  S. 
Trochisci  Morphinae  et  Ipecacuanhae,  TJ.  S. 
Oleum  Gossypii  Seminis. 

Linimentum  Ammoniae,  TJ.  S. 

Camphorae,  TJ.  S. 

Oleum  Juniperi. 

Spiritus  Juniperi,  TJ.  S. 

Compositus,  U.  S. 


ALPHABETICAL  LIST  OF  OFFICIAL  DRUGS. 


1787 


Oleum  Lavandulae  Florum. 

Linimentum  Camphor®  Compositum,  Br. 

Saponis  Mollis,  U.  S. 

Spiritus  Ammoni®  Aromaticus,  U.  S. 

Lavandul®,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Tinctura  Lavandulse  Composita,  U.  S.,  Br. 
Unguentum  Diachylon,  U.  S. 

Oleum  Limonis. 

Linimentum  Potassii  Iodidi  cum  Sapone,  Br. 
Spiritus  Ammonise  Aromaticus,  U.  S.,  Br. 
Aurantii  Compositus,  U.  S. 

Limonis,  U.  S. 

Oleum  Lini. 

Linimentum  Calcis,  U.  S. 

Oleum  Menthae  Piperitae. 

Aqua  Menth®  Piperit®,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Essentia  Menth®  Piperit®,  Br. 

Pilul®  Rhei  Composit®,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Vegetahiles  Composit®,  U.  S. 

Spiritus  Menth®  Piperit®,  U.  S. 

Tinctura  Chloroformi  et  Morph  in®,  Br. 
Trochisci  Menth®  Piperit®,  U.  S. 

Oleum  Menthae  Viridis. 

Aqua  Menth®  Viridis,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Spiritus  Menth®  Viridis,  U.  S. 

Oleum  Myrciae. 

Spiritus  Myrci®,  U.  S. 

Oleum  Myristicae. 

Pilula  Aloes  Socotrina,  Br. 

Spiritus  Ammoni®  Aromaticus,  U.  S.,  Br. 
Myristic®,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Oleum  Olivae. 

Charta  Epispastica,  Br. 

Ceratum  Cetacei,  U.  S. 

Emplastrum  Ammoniaci  cum  Hydrargyro,  Br. 
Eerri,  U.  S. 

Hydrargyri,  Br. 

Picis,  Br. 

Burgundic®,  U.  S. 

Plumbi,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Saponis  Fuscum,  Br. 

Linimentum  Ammoni®,  Br. 

Calcis,  Br. 

Camphor®,  Br. 

Unguentum  Camphor®,  Br. 

Diachylon,  U.  S. 

Hydrargyri  Compositum,  Br. 

Nitratis,  Br. 

Veratrin®,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Oleum  Pimentae. 

Spiritus  Myrci®,  U.  S. 

Oleum  Ricini. 

Collodium  Flexile,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Linimentum  Sinapis  Compositum,  U.  S .,  Br. 
Mistura  Olei  Bicini,  Br.  Add. 

Pilul®  Antimonii  Composit®,  U.  S.,  Br. 
Unguentum  Hydrargyri  Oxidi  Rubri,  U.  S. 
Oleum  Rosmarini. 

Linimentum  Saponis,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Spiritus  Rosmarini,  Br. 

Tinctura  Lavendul®  Composita,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Oleum  Sassafras. 

Syrupus  Sarsaparill®  Compositus,  U.  S. 
Trochisci  Cubeb®,  U.  S. 

Oleum  Sinapis  Volatile. 

Linimentum  Sinapis  Compositum,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Oleum  Terebinthinse. 

Confectio  Terebinthin®,  Br. 

Enema  Terebinthin®,  Br. 

Linimentum  Terebinthin®,  U.  S.,  Br. 
Aceticum,  Br. 

Oleum  Terebinthin®  Rectificatum,  U.  S. 
Unguentum  Terebinthin®,  Br. 

Oleum  Theobromatis. 

Suppositoria  Acidi  Tannici,  Br, 


Oleum  Theobromatis. 

Suppositoria  Hydrargyri,  Br. 
lodoformi,  Br. 

Morph  in®,  Br. 

Plumbi  Composita,  Br. 

Oleum  Tiglii. 

Linimentum  Crotonis,  Br. 

Opium. 

Confectio  Opii,  Br. 

Emplastrum  Opii,  U.  S.,  Br. 
Extractum  Opii,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Liquidum,  Br. 

Linimentum  Opii,  Br. 

Pilula  Ipecacuanh®  et  Scill®,  Br. 
Plumbi  et  Opii,  Br. 

Saponis  Composita,  Br. 

Pilul®  Opii,  U.  S. 

Pulv.  Cret®  Aromaticus  cum  Opio,  Br. 
Ipecacuanh®  Compositus,  Br. 

et  Opii,  U.  S. 

Kino  Compositus,  Br. 

Opii  Compositus,  Br. 

Suppositoria  Plumbi  Composita,  Br. 
Tinctura  Camphor®  Composita,  Br. 
Ipecacuanh®  et  Opii,  U.  S. 

Opii,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Deodorati,  U.  S. 

Ammoniata,  Br. 

Camphorata,  U.  S. 

Trochisci  Glycyrrhiz®  et  Opii,  U.  S. 
Opii,  Br. 

Unguentum  Gall®  cum  Opio,  Br. 
Vinum  Opii,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Pareira. 

Decoctum  Pareir®,  Br. 

Extractum  Pareir®,  Br. 

Fluidum,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Pepsinum. 

Pepsininum  Saccharatum,  U.  S. 

Petrolatum  Molle. 

Unguentum  Acidi  Borici,  Br. 
Carbolici,  Br. 

Salicylici,  Br. 

Eucalypti,  Br. 

Glycerini  Plumbi  Subacetatis,  Br. 
Hydrargyri  Oxidi  Rubri,  Br. 

Nitratis  Dilutum,  Br. 

Potass®  Sul ph u rat®,  Br. 

Sulphuris  Iodidi,  Br. 

Veratrin®,  Br. 

Zinci  Oleati,  Br. 

Phosphorus. 

Elixir  Phosphori,  U.  S. 

Oleum  Phosphoratum,  U.  S.,  Br. 
Pilula  Phosphori,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Spiritus  Phosphori,  U.  S. 

Phytolaccae  Radix. 

Extractum  Phytolacc®  Fluidum,  U.  S. 

Pilocarpus. 

Extractum  Jaborandi,  Br. 

Pilocarpi  Fluidum,  U.  S. 

Infusum  Jaborandi,  Br. 

Physostigma. 

Extractum  Plivsostigmatis,  U.  S.,  Br. 
Tinctura  Physostigmatis,  U.  S. 

Pimenta. 

Aqua  Piment®,  Br. 

Piper. 

Confectio  Opii,  Br. 

Pi  peris,  Br. 

Oleoresina  Piperis,  U.  S. 

Pulvis  Opii  Compositus,  Br. 

Pix  Burgundica. 

1 Emplastrum  Ferri,  U.  S.}  Br. 


1788 


APPENDIX. 


Pix  Burgundica. 

Emplastrum  Opii,  U.  S. 

Picis,  Br. 

Burgundicae,  U.  S. 

Cantharidatum,  U.  S. 

Pix  Liquida. 

Syrupus  Picis  Liquids,  U.  S. 

Unguentum  Picis  Liquidae,  TJ.  ^ S'.,  Br. 

Plumbi  Acetas. 

Glycerinum  Plumbi  Subacetatis,  Br. 

Liquor  Plumbi  Subacetatis,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Pilula  Plumbi  Composita,  Br. 

Suppositoria  Plumbi  Composita,  Br. 

Plumbi  Carbonas. 

Unguentum  Plumbi  Carbonatis,  U.  S.,  Br. 
Plumbi  Iodidum. 

Emplastrum  Plumbi  Iodidi,  Br. 

Unguentum  Plumbi  Iodidi,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Plumbi  Oxidum. 

Emplastrum  Plumbi,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Saponis  Fuscum,  Br. 

Liquor  Plumbi  Subacetatis,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 
Podophyllum. 

Exlractum  Podopbylli,  U.  S. 

Fluidum,  U.  S. 

Resina  Podopbylli,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Potassa. 

Liquor  Potassse,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Potassa  cum  Calce,  U.  S. 

Potassa  Sulphurata. 

Unguentum  Potassse  Sulphuratae,  Br. 

Potassii  Bicarbonas. 

Liquor  Potassse  Effervescens,  Br. 

Potassii  Arsenitis,  U.  S. 

Citratis,  TJ.  S. 

Potassii  Bitartras. 

Confectio  Sulphuris,  Br. 

Pulvis  Jalapse  Compositus,  T\  S.,  Br. 

Trochisci  Sulphuris,  Br. 

Potassii  Carbonas. 

Decoctum  Aloes  Coinpositum,  Br. 

Liquor  Arseniealis,  Br. 

Mistura  Ferri  Composita,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Pilulse  Ferri  Carbonatis,  U.  *S'. 

Potassa  Sulphurata,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Potassii  Chloras. 

Trochisci  Potassii  Chloratis,  U.  S.,  Br. 
Potassii  Ferrocyanidum. 

Acidum  Hydrocyanicum  Dilutum,  TJ.  S., 
Br. 

Potassii  Hypophosphis. 

Syrupus  Hypophosphitum  Com  posit  um,  TJ.  S. 
Acidi  Hydriodici,  TJ.  S. 

Potassii  Iodidum. 

Linimentum  Iodi,  Br. 

Potassii  Iodidi  cum  Sapone,  Br. 

Liquor  Iodi,  Br. 

Compositus,  TJ.  S. 

Syrupus  Acidi  Hydriodici,  U.  S. 

Tinctura  Iodi,  Br. 

Unguentum  Iodi,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Potassii  Iodidi,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Potassii  Nitras. 

Argenti  et  Potassii  Nitras,  Br. 

Nitras  Dilutus,  TJ.  S. 

Charta  Potassii  Nitratis,  TJ.  S. 

Potassii  Permanganas. 

Liquor  Potassii  Permanganatis,  Br. 

Potassii  Sulphas. 

Pilula  Colocynthidis  Composita,  Br. 
et  Hyoscyami,  Br. 

Ipecacuanhse  cum  Scilla,  Br. 

Pulvis  Ipecacuanhse  Compositus,  Br. 

Prunum. 

Con  lectio  Sennae,  TJ.  S.,  Br, 


Prunus  Virginiana. 

Extractum  Pruni  Yirginianae  Fluidum,  TJ.  S. 
Infusum  Pruni  Virginianae,  TJ.  S. 

Syrupus  Pruni  Yirginianae,  U.  S. 

Pyrethrum. 

Tinctura  Pyrethri,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Pyroxylin. 

Collodium,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Vesicans,  Br. 

Quassia. 

Extractum  Quassiae,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Fluidum,  TJ.  S. 

Tinctura  Qu assise,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Quillaja. 

Tinctura  Quillajse,  U.  S. 

Quinina. 

Ferri  et  Quininse  Citras,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Solubilis,  TJ.  S. 

Quininae  Hydrochloras. 

Tinctura  Quininse,  Br. 

Quininae  Sulphas. 

| Syrupus  Ferri  Quininae  et  Strychnina*  Plios- 
phatum,  TJ.  S. 

\ Tinctura  Quininae  Ammoniata,  Br. 

| Vinum  Quininae,  Br. 

Eesina. 

Charta  Epispastica,  Br. 

Ceratum  Cantharidis,  TJ.  S. 

Resinae,  TJ.  S. 

Emplastrum  Calefaciens,  Br. 

Cantharidis,  Br. 

Picis,  Br. 

Plumbi  Iodidi,  Br. 

Resinae,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Saponis,  Br. 

Unguentum  Resinae,  Br. 

Terebinthinae,  Br. 

Resina  Podophylli. 

[ Pilulae  Catharticae  Vegetabiles,  TJ.  S. 

Tinctura  Podophylli,  Br. 

Rhamnus  Pursliiana. 

Extractum  Cascarae  Sagradae,  Br. 

Liquidum,  Br. 

Rhamni  Purshianae  Fluidum,  TJ.  S. 

Rheum. 

1 Extractum  Rhei,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Fluidum,  IT.  S. 

Infusum  Rhei,  Br. 
j Pilulae  Rhei,  TJ.  S. 

Compositae,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Pulvis  Rhei  Compositus,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Syrupus  Rhei,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Aromaticus,  TJ.  S. 

Tinctura  Rhei,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Aromatica,  TJ.  S. 

Dulcis,  TJ.  S. 

Yinum  Rhei,  Br. 

Rhus  Glabra. 

Extractum  Rhois  Glabrae  Fluidum,  TJ.  S. 
Rosa  Gallica. 

Confectio  Rosae,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Extractum  Rosae  Fluidum,  TJ.  S. 

Infusum  Ros?e  Acidum,  Br. 

Mel  Rosae,  TJ.  S. 

Pilulae  Aloes  et  Mastiche,  TJ.  S. 

Syrupus  Rosae,  TJ.  S. 

Rubus. 

Extractum  Eubi  Fluidum,  TJ.  S. 

Syrupus  Rubi,  TJ.  S. 

Rubus  Idg5us. 

Syrupus  Rubi  Idaei,  TJ.  S. 

Rurnex. 

I Extractum  Rumicis  Fluidum,  TJ,  S. 


ALPHABETICAL  LIST  OF  OFFICIAL  DRUGS. 


1789 


Sabinae. 

• Extractum  Sabinae  Fluidum,  U.  S. 

Tinctura  Sabinae,  Br. 

Unguentum  Sabinae,  Br. 

Sambucus. 

Aqua  Sambuci,  Br. 

Sanguinaria. 

Extractum  Sanguinariae  Fluidum,  U.  S. 
Tinctura  Sanguinariae,  U.  S. 

Sapo. 

Emplastrum  Saponis,  U.  S. 

Linimentum  Saponis,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Pilulae  Aloes,  U.  S.,  Br. 
et  Asafoetidae,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Asafoetidae,  U.  S. 

Cambogiae  Compositae,  Br. 

Opii,  U.  S. 

Rhei,  U.  S. 

Compositae,  Br. 

Saponis  Compositae,  Br. 

Scillae  Compositae,  Br. 

Sapo  Mollis. 

Linimentum  Saponis  Mollis,  U.  S. 
Terebinthinae,  Br. 

Sarsaparilla. 

Decoctum  Sarsae,  Br. 

Sarsaparillee  Compositum,  U.  S.,  Br. 
Extractum  Sarsaparillae  Fluidum,  U.  S., 
Br. 

Compositum,  U.  S. 

Syrupus  Sarsaparillae  Compositus,  U.  S. 

Sassafras. 

Decoctum  Sarsaparilllae  Compositum,  U.  S ., 
Br. 

Sassafras  Medulla. 

Mucilago  Sassafras  Medullae,  U.  S. 
Scammonium. 

Mistura  Scammonii,  Br. 

Resina  Scammonii,  U.  S .,  Br. 

Scilla. 

Acetum  Scillae,  U.  S.,  Br.. 

Extractum  Scillae  Fluidum,  U.  S. 

Oxymel  Scillae,  Br. 

Pilula  Ipecacuanhae  cum  Scilla,  Br. 

Scillae  Coraposita,  Br. 

Syrupus  Scillae,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Tinctura  Scillae,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Scoparius. 

Decoctum  Scoparii,  Br. 

Extractum  Scoparii  Fluidum,  U.  S. 
Scutellaria. 

Extractum  Scutellariae  Fluidum,  U.  S. 

Senega. 

Extractum  Senega1  Fluidum,  U.  S. 

Infusum  Senegae,  Br. 

Syrupus  Senegae,  U.  S. 

Scillae  Compositus,  U.  S. 

Tinctura  Senegae,  Br. 

Senna. 

Confectio  Sennae,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Extractum  Sennae  Fluidum,  U.  S. 

Infusum  Sennae,  Br. 

Compositum,  U.  S. 

Mistura  Sennae  Composita,  Br. 

Pul  vis  Glycyrrhizae  Compositus,  U.  S.,  Br. 
Syrupus  Sennae,  U.  S.}  Br. 

Tinctura  Sennae,  Br. 

Serpentaria. 

Extractum  Serpentariae  Fluidum,  U.  S. 
Infusum  Serpentariae,  Br. 

Tinctura  Cinchonae  Composita,  U.  S.,  Br. 
Serpentariae,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Sevum. 

Emplastrum  Cantharidis,  Br. 

Unguentum  Hydrargyri,  U.  S.,  Br. 


Sinapis  Nigra. 

Cataplasma  Sinapis,  Br. 

Charta  Sinapis,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Soda. 

Liquor  Sodae,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Sodii  Arsenas. 

Liquor  Sodii  Arsenatis,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Sodii  Bicarbonas. 

Ferri  Carbouas  Saccharatus,  U.  S. 

Liquor  Sodae  Effervescens,  Br. 

Mistura  Rhei  et  Sodae,  U.  S. 

Pulvis  Effervescens  Compositus,  U.  S. 

Sodae  Tartaratae  Effervescens,  Br. 

Sodii  Citro-tartras  Effervescens,  Br. 

Trochisci  Sodii  Bicarbonatis,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Sodii  Carbonas. 

Liquor  Sodae,  Br. 

Chloratae,  17.  S.,  Br. 

Massa  Ferri  Carbonatis,  U.  S. 

Soda  Tartarata,  Br. 

Arsenas,  Br. 

Sodii  Carbonas  Exsiccatus,  U.  S.,  Br. 
Suppositoria  Glycerini,  U.  S. 

Sodii  Hypophosphis. 

Svrupus  Hvpophospliitum  Compositus, 

IT.  S. 

Sodii  Mitras. 

Sodii  Arsenas,  Br. 

Sodii  Nitris. 

Spiritus  Athens  Nitrosi,  U.  S. 

Sodii  Phosphas. 

Ferri  Phosphas,  Br. 

Solubilis,  U.  S. 

Sodii  Phosphas  Effervescens,  Br. 

Syrupus  Ferri  Phosphatis,  Br. 

Sodii  Pyrophosphas. 

Ferri  Pyrophosphas  Solubilis,  U.  S. 

Sodii  Sulphas. 

Sodii  Sulphas  Effervescens,  Br. 

Sodii  Thiosulphas  (Hyposulphis). 

Unguentum  Potassii  Iodidi,  U.  S. 

Spigelia. 

Extractum  Spigeliae  Fluidum,  U.  S. 

Spiritus  Athens  Nitrosi. 

Mistura  Glycyrrhizae  Composita,  U.  S. 
Spiritus  Ammonise  Aromaticus. 

Tinctura  Guaiaci  Ammoniata,  U.  S.,  Br. 
Valerianae  Ammoniata,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Spiritus  Aurantii  Compositus. 

Elixir  Aromaticum,  U.  S. 

Spiritus  Phosphori. 

Elixir  Phosphori,  U.  S. 

Stillingia. 

Extractum  Stillingiae  Fluidum,  U.  S. 
Staphisagria. 

Unguentum  Staphisagriae,  Br. 

Stramonii  Semen. 

Extractum  Stramonii  Seminis,  U.  S .,  Br. 
Fluidum,  IT.  S. 

Tinctura  Stramonii  Seminis,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Strophanthus. 

Tinctura  Strophanthi,  U.  S , Br. 

Strychnina. 

Ferri  et  Strychninae  Citras,  IJ.  S. 

Liquor  Strychninae  Hydrochloratis,  Br. 
Syrupus  Ferri,  Quininae,  et  Strychninae  Phos- 
phatum,  U.  S. 

Sty rax. 

Tinctura  Benzoini  Composita,  IT.  S.}  Br. 

Sulphuris  Iodidum. 

Unguentum  Sulphuris  Iodidi,  Br. 

Sulphur  Lotum. 

Pulvis  Glycyrrhizae  Compositus,  U.  S. 
Sulphuris  Iodidum,  U.  S. 

Unguentum  Sulphuris,  U.  S. 


1790 


APPENDIX. 


Sulphur  Prsecipitatum. 

Trochisci  Sulphuris,  Br. 

Sulphur  Suhlimatum. 

Confectio  Sulphuris,  Br. 

Emplastrum  Ammoniaci  cum  Hydrargyro,  Br. 
Potassa  Sulphurata,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Pulvis  Glyeyrrhizse  Compositus,  Br. 

Sulphur  Lotum,  U.  S. 

Prsecipitatum,  U.  S. 

Sulphuris  Iodidum,  Br. 

Unguentum  Sulphuris,  Br. 

Sumbul. 

Tinctura  Sumbul,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Tamarindus. 

Confectio  Sennse,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Taraxacum. 

Decoctum  Taraxaci,  Br. 

Extractum  Taraxaci,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Fluidum,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Succus  Taraxaci,  Br. 

Terebinthina  Canadensis. 

Charta  Epispastica,  Br. 

Collodium  Flexile,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Tragacantha. 

Confectio  Opii,  Br. 

Sulphuris,  Br. 

Glycerinum  Tragacanthse,  Br. 

Mucilago  Tragacanthse,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Pulvis  Opii  Compositus,  Br. 

Tragacanthse  Compositus,  Br. 

Triticum. 

Extractum  Tritici  Fluidum,  U.  S. 

Ulmus. 

Mucilago  Ulmi,  U.  S. 

Uva  Ursi. 

Extractum  Uvse  Ursi,  U.  S. 

Fluidum,  TJ.  S. 

Infusum  Uvse  Ursi,  Br. 

Valeriana. 

Extractum  Valerianse  Fluidum,  TJ.  S. 


Valeriana. 

Infusum  Valerianse,  Br. 

Tinctura  Valerianse,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Ammoniata,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Vanilla. 

Tinctura  Vanillse,  TJ.  S. 

Veratrina. 

Oleatum  Veratrinse,  TJ.  S. 

Unguentum  Veratrinse,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Veratrum  Viride. 

Extractum  Veratri  Viridis  Fluidum,  TJ.  S. 
Tinctura  Veratri  Viridis,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Viburnum  Opulus. 

Extractum  Viburni  Opuli  Fluidum,  TJ.  S. 

Viburnum  Prunifolium. 

Extractum  Viburnii  Prunifolii  Fluidum.  TJ.  S, 

Vitellus. 

Glyceritum  Vitelli,  TJ.  S. 

Xanthoxylum. 

Extractum  Xanthoxyli  Fluidum,  TJ.  S. 

Zinci  Oxidum. 

Oleatum  Zinci,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Unguentum  Zinci  Oxidi,  TJ.  S.,  Br. 

Zingiber. 

Confectio  Opii,  Br. 

Scammonii,  Br. 

Extractum  Zingiberis  Fluidum,  TJ.  S. 

Infusum  Zingiberis,  Br. 

Oleoresina  Zingiberis,  TJ.  S. 

Pilula  Scillse  Composita,  Br. 

Pulvis  Aromaticus,  TJ.  S. 

Cinnamomi  Compositus,  Br. 

Jalapse  Compositus,  Br. 

Opii  Compositus,  Br. 

Rhei  Compositus,  U.  S.,  Br. 

Scammonii  Compositus,  Br. 

Syrupus  Zingiberis,  TJ.  S.y  Br. 

Tinctura  Zingiberis,  U.  S.}  Br. 

Fortior,  Br. 

Vinum  Aloes,  Br. 


GENERAL  INDEX 


BOTANY,  MATERIA  MEDICA,  CHEMISTRY,  AND  PHARMACY. 


4 BEDUL,  337 

A Abelmoschus  esculentus,  168 
moschatus,  168 
Abfiihrpillen,  1241 
Abies  alba,  1586 
balsamea,  1584 
canadensis,  930 
excelsa,  1252,  1586 
Fraseri,  1585 
Larix,  930 
Menziesii,  1586 
pectinata,  1586 
Abietene,  1158 
Abkochungen,  575 
Abrin,  1 
Abrotano,  4 
Abrus  precatorius,  1 
Absinthe,  4 
commune,  3 
Absinthin,  4 
Absinthium,  3 
vulgare,  3 
Absinthol,  4 
Absorbent  cotton,  790 
Abstracts,  646 
Abuta  amara,  1197 
rufescens,  1198 
Abutilon  Avicennse,  168 
indicum,  168 
Acacia,  5 
Adansonii,  5 
anthelmintica,  910 
arabica,  5,  427 
Catechu,  425 
decurrens,  7,  427 
Ehrenbergii,  6 
Farnesiana,  8 
fistula,  7 
formosa,  8 
Greggii,  923 
homalophylla,  8 
horrida,  7 
Jurema,  427 
melanoxylon,  8 
nilotica,  5 
pycnantha,  7 
Senegal,  5,  7 
Seyal,  6 
stenocarpa,  7 
Suma,  425 
tomentosa,  5 
tortilis,  6 
vera,  verek,  5 
virginalis,  427 
Acaciae  gummi,  5 
Acajou  & pommes,  207 
Acantho-mastich,  1024 
Acebo,  861 
Acederilla,  1185 
Aceite  de  cacao,  1161 
de  higado  de  bacalao,  1132 


| Acetal,  11,  12 
Acetaldehyde,  1195 
Acetanilid,  8,  10 
Acetanilidum,  8 
Acetas  alumini,  176 
ammonicus  liquid  us,  948 
cupricus,  560 
kalicus,  1275 

morphicus,  morphime,  1056 
natricus,  1450 
plumbicus,  1258 
potassicus,  1275 
sodicus,  1450 
zincicus,  1719 
Acetate  d’alumine,  176 
d’ammoniaque,  948 
de  cuivre,  560 
basique,  561 
d’ethyle,  137 
de  morphine,  1056 
de  plomb,  1258 
de  potasse,  1275 
de  soude,  1450 
de  zinc,  1719 
ferrique  liquide,  955 
Acetbromanilid,  9 
Aceto,  12 
antisettico,  14 
aromatico,  14 
scillitico,  16 
Acetole  antiseptic,  14 
aromatique,  14 
de  scille,  16 
Acetomel,  1187 
Acetone,  Acetonum,  11,  157 
chloroform,  471 
Acetophenone,  11,  12 
Acetum,  12 

antisepticum,  14 
ararobse,  475 
aromaticum,  14 
cantharidis,  15 
concentratum,  20 
crudum,  12 
destillatum,  13,  22 
glaciate,  19 
ipecacuanhse,  15 
opii,  15 

plumbicum,  973 
purum,  13,  22 
pyrolignosum,  18 
rubi  idiei,  1569 
sanguinatise,  1409 
saturni,  973 
scillse,  16 
scilliticum,  16 
vini,  13 

Acetylamidobenzol,  8 
Acetylene,  18 

Acetylphenylhydrazine,  1215 
j Ache,  1212 


Ache  de  montagne,  935 
des  chiens,  531 
Achillea,  16 
Achillea  ageratum,  17 
atrata,  17 
Millefolium,  16 
moschata,  17 
nana,  17 
nobilis,  17 
Ptarmicas,  17,  215 
Achillein,  Achilletin,  16,  17 
Achiotillo,  291 
Achras  Balata,  802 
mammosa,  766 
sapota,  1047 

Acid,  abietic,  1253,  1365,  1586 
abric,  1 

acetic,  17,  20,  152,  618,  772 
aromatic,  20 
derivatives,  20 
diluted,  13,  22 
glacial,  19 
achilleic,  17 
aconitic,  51,  120 
sescinic,  sesculetinic,  814 
agaric,  144 
ailanthic,  146 
aloetic,  164 
alorcinic,  165 
alphaoxynaphtoic,  1074 
amidoacetic,  715 
amidoisethionic,  715 
amidosuccinic,  168 
amygdalic,  195 
anacardic,  207 
anchusic,  153 
angelic,  210,  865 
anthemic,  anthemidic,  546,  1026 
antirrhinic,  583,  938 
apoglucinic,  814 
apophyllic,  1171 
arabic,  6 
arachic,  1140 
arsenic,  24,  293 
arsenous,  22,  24 
aspartic,  168 
aspertannic,  763 
auric,  314 
azaleinic,  17 
beberic,  1077 
behenic,  1154,  1445 
belladonnic,  306 
benzoic,  31 
betulo-resinic,  388 
boracic,  boric,  34 
borosalicylic,  89 
brassic,  1445 
butinic,  1140 
butyric,  779 
caerulic,  360 

caffeic,  caffeanic,  caffcelic,  360 
1791 


1792 


Acid — 

caffeo-tannic,  360,  367 
cahincic,  367 
cambogic,  386 

camphoric,  camplioronic,388,390 
camphresinic,  388 
cantharic,  cantharidic,  398 
carbamic,  1674 
carbazotic,  86 
carbolic,  37,  41 
crude,  37,  38 
iodized,  39 
pure,  38 
synthetic,  37 
carbonic,  45 
carminic,  512 
carthamic,  415 
caryophyllinic,  417 
catechuic,  426,  911 
catechutannic,  426 
cathartic,  1441 
cathartogenic,  1441 
cerotic,  431 
cetraric,  441 
cevadic,  1390 
chamber,  98 
chebulinic,  1067 
chelidoninic,  chelidonic,  445 
chloracetic,  20,  22 
chlorogenic,  360 
chlorohyponitric,  77 
chloronitric,  77 
chloronitrous,  77 
cholalic,  715 
choleic,  cholic,  714,  715 
chromic,  47 
chrysammic,  164 
chrysophanic,  1378 
cinchomeronic,  496 
cinchonic,  496 
cinchotannic,  491 
cinnamic,  946,  1119 
citric,  50 
cocatannic,  503 
ccerulic,  360 
coffeic,  360 
columbic,  379 
comenic,  1173 
convolvulic,  903 
copaivic,  538,  1365 
cornic,  544 
cotarnic,  1171 
coumaric,  1030 
cresol-salicylic,  89 
cresotic,  90 
cresylic,  44 
cubebic,  557 
cuminic,  560 
delphinic,  113 
dextrotartaric,  111 
dichloracetic,  20 
digallic,  55 
digitaleic,  583 
digitaloic,  583 

diiodoparaphenolsulphonic,  880 
dilactic,  70 

dimethyl-protocatechuic,  120 

dioxysalicylic,  54 

dioxysuccinic,  110 

diphosphoric,  82 

elaic,  78 

elaidic,  79 

elateric,  593 

elemic,  596 

ellagic,  106,  792,  1067 

embelic,  910 

ergotic,  617 

eriodictyonic,  623 

erucic,  1445 

erythric,  924 

erythrophleic,  624 


GENERAL  INDEX. 

Acid — 

ethyledenelactic,  69 
ethylenelactic,  69 
eugenic,  1117 
euonic,  630 
evernic,  924 
ferulaic,  296 
filicic,  302 
fluoric,  67 
formic,  53,  618,  779 
fumaric,  441,  759 
fusco-sclerotic,  618 
gadic,  1134 
galitannic,  763 
gallic,  54,  1067 
gallotannic,  107.  765 
gelsemic,  754,  770 
gentianic,  772 
gentisic,  772 
glucinic,  814 
glycocholic,  714 
glycyrrhizic,  787 
gratioloic,  794 
guaiacic,  guaiaretic,  797 
guaiacolcarbonic,  799 
guaiaretic,  797 
gummic,  6 
gurjunic,  539 
gymnemic,  811 
gynocardic,  803 
helianthic,  808 
hircic,  1444 
homosalicylic,  90 
hordeic,  817 
hydriodic,  56 
hydrobromic,  57 
diluted,  57 
hydrochloric,  60 
diluted,  61,  62 
official,  61 
hydrocyanic,  1106 
diluted,  63 
hydroferrocyanic,  64 
hydrofluoric,  67 
hydrosulphuric,  743 
hypogseic,  1154 
hypophosphorous,  68,  1218 
hypopicrotoxic,  1226 
igasuric,  1085 
ilicic,  862 
iodic,  889 
ipecacuanhic,  894 
ipomic,  903 
issethionic,  1104 
isocetic,  568 
isolactic,  69 
isopropylacetic,  113 
isopurpuric,  65 
jalapic,  983 
jervic,  1691 
juglandic,  905 
kinic,  490 
kinotannic,  911 
kinovic,  491 
laburnic,  915 
lactic,  69,  618,  916 
lactucic,  926 
lsevotartaric,  111 
larixinic,  930 
lauric,  932 
lecanoric,  924 
leditannic,  907 
lichenstearic,  441 
linoleic,  79,  1129 
lobelic,  995 
lupamaric,  999 
malonic,  70 
mandelic,  195 
manganic,  1015 
mannitic,  1018 
mastichic,  1023 


Acid — 

matetannic,  862 
meconic,  1173 
melilotic,  1030 
mesotartaric,  112 
meta-arsenic,  293 
metaboric,  34 
metacopaivic,  536 
metagummic,  6 
metapectic,  6 
metaphosphoric,  82,  84 
metatartaric,  112 
methoxysalicylic,  799 
methyl  salicylic,  1123 
muriatic,  60 
diluted,  61 
myrisinic,  1065 
myristic,  900,  1138 
myronic,  1446 
nitric,  72 
crude,  73 
diluted,  72,  73,  75 
fuming,  73,  75 
pure,  73 

nitrocinnamic,  866 
nitrohydrochloric,  76 
diluted,  77 
nitromuriatic,  76 
diluted,  77 
nitrophenisic,  86 
nitroso-nitric,  73 
nitrous,  75,  565 
cenanthylic,  1145 
oleic,  78 
ophelic,  452 
opianic,  848,  1111 
orsellic,  924 
orthoarsenic,  293 
orthophosphoric,  82 
ortho-oxybenzoic,  88 
orthophenol-sulphonic,  40 
osmic,  48 
oxalic,  80,  441 
oxycopaivic,  538 
oxynaphthoic,  44 
oxypropionic,  69 
oxysalicylic,  772 
oxytoluic,  90 
papaveric,  1380 
paracumaric,  165 
paraglycocholic,  715 
paralactic,  69 

para-oxy benzoic,  40,  165,  910 
para  tartaric,  111 
paulliuitannic,  801 
perchloric,  1292 
permanganic,  1015 
perosmic,  50 
phenic,  37 

phenoldisulphonic,  1486 
phenoltrisulphonic,  1486 
phenylglycolic,  195 
phosphoric,  82,  83,  84 
diluted,  82,  84,  85 
glacial,  83,  84 
phosphorous,  1218 
phtalic,  1717 
phytolaccic,  1225 
picric,  86 
picrocyanic,  65 
picrotoxic,  1227 
pinic,  1365 
piperic,  1250 
pipitzahoic,  1379 
polygalic,  1437 
propionic,  779 

protocatechuic,  426,  911,  913 
prussic,  63 
pteritannic,  281 
punicotannic,  792 
pyrethric,  1333 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


1793 


Acid — 

pyroacetic,  19 
pyroarsenic,  293 
pyroboric,  35 
pyrocomenic,  1193 
pyrogallic,  1335 
pyroligneous,  18 
pyrophosplioric,  82 
pyrosulphuric,  99 
pyrotartaric,  386 
quercitannic,  1340 
quercitic,  1386 
quinic,  427,  490 
quinoline-carbonic,  496 
quinotannic,  491 
quinovic,  427,  491 
racemic,  111 
ratankia-tannic,  913 
rkabarbaric,  1378 
rkeotannic,  1378 
rkeumic,  1378 
rkceadic,  1380 
ricinoleic,  1145 
robinic,  1384 

rubianic,  ruberythrinic,  764 
rubickloric,  rubitannic,  764 
rutinic,  1389 
sabadillic,  1390 
saccharic,  80,  1396 
salicylic,  88 
salicylous,  1400 
salicylsulphonic,  90 
sanguinarinic,  1408 
santonic,  1414 
sarcolactic,  69,  1204 
sativic,  79 
scammonic,  1370 
sclerotic,  617 
sebacic,  79,  903 
sinapoleic,  1445 
sinapic,  1446 
sorbic,  1491 
sozoidolic,  880 
sozolic,  40 
sozonic,  880 
sphacelic,  618 
stearic,  96 
succinic,  96 
sulphoccerulic,  866 
sulpho-oleic,  79 
sulphopurpuric,  866 
sulphoricinoleinic,  79 
sulphosalicylic,  90 
sulphovinic,  130 
sulphuric,  97 
anhydrous,  99 
aromatic,  103 
commercial,  99 
diluted,  98,  101 
pure,  99 
sulphurous,  104 
sumbulamic,  1545 
sylvic,  1365 
tampicic,  903 
tanacetic,  1579 
tannaspidic,  302 
tannic,  106 
tartaric,  110 
inactive,  112 
taurocholic,  714,  715 
temulentic,  997 
thapsic,  1592 
thebolactic,  69,  1173 
theobromic,  1161 
thiomelanic,  1104 
thujetic,  1598 
thymic,  1599 
thymolsulphonic,  1599 
tiglinic,  1164 
toluic,  1717 
toxicodendric,  1382 
113 


Acid — 

trichloracetic,  20 
trioxybenzoic,  54 
umbellulic,  1427 
uric,  800 
uvic,  111 

valerianic,  113,  865,  999 
vanillic,  548 
veratric,  120,  1390 
viburnic,  1407 
viridinic,  360,  1256 
whey,  917 

xylenesulphonic,  1717 
Acide  acetique,  17,  20 
aromatise,  20 
crystallizable,  19 
de  bois,  18 
dilue,  22 
arsenieux,  22 
azotique,  72 
dilue,  73 
fumante,  73 
benzoique,  31 
borique,  34 
carbazotique,  86 
carbolique,  37 
carboneux,  80 
carbonique,  45 
chlorazotique  dilue,  77 
chlorhydrique,  60 
dilue,  61 

chloro-azotique,  76 
chloronitreux,  76 
chromique,  47 
citrique,  50 
copahuvique,  1365 
cyanhydrique,  63 
du  citron,  50 
du  tartre,  110 
fluorhydrique,  67 
fluorique,  67 
formique,  53 
gallique,  54 
hydrobromique,  57 
hydrocyanique,  63 
hypophosphoreux,  68 
iodhydrique,  56 
lactique,  69 
muriatique,  60 
nitrique,  72 
nitroxanthique,  86 
oleique,  76 
oxalique,  80 
phenique,  37 
cru,  37 

phosphorique,  82 
glacial,  83 
medicinal,  84 
phtorique,  67 
picrique,  86 
pyroacetique,  18 
pyrogallique,  1335 
pyroligneux,  18 
salicylique,  88 
stearique,  96 
succipique,  96 
sulfureux,  104 
sulfurique,  97 
dilue,  98 
tannique,  106 
tartrique,  110 
thymique,  1599 
valerianique,  113 
valerique,  113 
Acido  acetico,  17 
concentrato,  19 
diluto,  20 
benzoico,  31 
borico,  34 
carbolico,  37 
citrico,  50 


Acido — 
chloridico,  60 
ciankidrico,  63 
cromico,  47 
fenico,  37 
gallico,  54 
lactico,  69 
nitrico,  72 
ossalico,  80 
phosphorico,  82 
picrico,  86 
salicilico,  88 
solforico,  97 
succinico,  96 
sulfurico,  97 
tannico,  106 
tartarico,  110 
valerianico,  113 
Acidum  aceticum,  17,  20 
aromaticum,  20 
concentratum,  19 
dilutum,  20,  22 
glaciale,  19 
pyrolignosum,  18 
arsenicosum,  22 
arseniosum,  22 
arsenosum,  22 
azoticum,  72 
benzoicum,  31 
sublimatum,  31 
boracicum,  boricum,  34 
borosalicylicum,  89 
borussicum,  63 
bromohydricum,  57 
carbazoticum,  86 
carbolicum,  37 
crudum,  37 
iodatum,  39 
liquefactum,  39 
carbonicum,  45 
catharticum,  1441 
cklorhydricum,  60 
chloroaceticum,  20 
chloronitrosum,  76 
chromicum,  47 
chrysophanicum,  1378 
citri,  citricum,  50 
copaibicum,  1365 
cresylicum,  37 
elainicum,  78 
fluorhydricum,  67 
formicarum,  53 
formicicum,  53 
gallicum,  54 
gallotannicum,  106 
hydriodicum,  56 
hydrobromicum,  57 
concentratrum,  59 
dilutum,  57 
hydrochloratum,  60 
hydrochloricum,  60 
dilutum,  61 
hydrocyanatum,  63 
hydrocyanicum.  dilutum,  63 
hydrofluoricum,  67 
hypophosphorosum,  68 
iodhydricum,  56 
lacticum,  69 
dilutum,  69 

limonorum,  limonum,  50 
meconicum,  1173 
metacopaivic,  538 
metaphosphoricurn,  dilutum,  84 
muriaticum,  60 
dilutum,  61 
nitri,  72 
nitricum,  72 
crudum,  73 
dilutum,  73 
fumans,  73 

nitrohydrochloricum,  76 


1794 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


Acidum  nitrohydrochloricum— 
dilutum,  77 
nitromuriaticum,  76 
dilutum,  77 
nitrosonitricum,  73 
oleicum,  78 
oleinicum,  78 
osmicum,  48 
oxalicum,  80 
perosmicum,  48 
phenicum,  37 
pbenylicum,  37 
phosphoricum,  82,  83 
dilutum,  82,  84 
glaciale,  83 
picricum,  86 
pyrogallicum,  1335 
pyrolignosum,  18 
salicylicum,  88 
stearicum,  96 
succinicum,  96 
sulfuricum,  97 
sulphuricum,  97 
aromaticum,  102,  103 
crudum,  99 
dilutum,  98 
fumans,  99 
sulphurosum,  104 
tannicum,  106 
tartaricum,  110 
thymicum,  1599 
trichloraceticum , 20 
valerianicum,  113 
valericum,  113 
Acipenser  spec.,  860 
Acmella  mauritiana,  1334 
Acolyctine,  115,  119 
Aconelline,  119 
Aconine,  115,  119 
Aconit,  117 

Aconite-leaves,  117,  118 
root,  117 

Aconiti  folia,  117 
radix,  117 
Aconitia,  114 
Aconitina,  114 
Aconitine,  114,  119 
Aconitinsalbe,  1660 
Aconitinum,  114 
Aconito,  117 
Aconitum  Anthora,  119 
Cammarum,  118 
Cliinense,  119,  122 
ferox,  119,  122 
Fischeri,  119 
heteropliyllum,  119,  122 
japonicum,  119,  122 
Lycoctonum,  119,  122 
multifidum,  119 
Napellus,  117,  122 
Palmatum,  119 
rotundifolium,  119 
septentrionale,  119 
Stoerckeanum,  118 
variabile,  117 
variegatum,  118 
virosum,  119 
vulgare,  117 
Acore  odorant,  367 
vrai,  367 
Acoretin,  368 
Acorin,  368 
Acorn,  1340 
coffee,  1341 
cups,  765 
Acorro  vero,  367 
Acorus  Calamus,  367 
Acqua,  237 
de  Rabel,  102 
di  catrame,  264 
di  cloro,  256 


Acqua — 

distillata  di  anice,  254 
di  arancio,  254 
di  cannella,  259 
di  finnocbio,  260 
di  mandorle  amare,  253 
di  menta  piperita,  264 
di  rosa,  265 
ossigenata,  261 
Acquse  distillate,  246 
Acraconitine,  120 
Acrolein,  779,  1093 
Acrinyl  sulpbocyanate,  1446 
Actsea  alba,  122 
racemosa,  478 
rubra,  122 
spicata,  122,  809 
Actee  a grappes,  478 
Actinomeris  lielianthoides,  808 
squarrosa,  808 
Adansonia  digitata,  123 
Gregorii,  123 
Madagascarieusis,  123 
Adelfo,  1095 
Adeps,  124 
benzoatus,  124 
benzoinatus,  124 
lanse,  126 

hydrosus,  126 
nucistse,  1138 
praeparatus,  123 
suillus,  123 

Adiantum  capillus  Veneris,  127 
pedatum,  127 
Adonide,  128 
Adonidin,  128 
Adonis  aestivalis,  128 
autumnalis,  128 
vernalis,  128,  809 
Adonisroschen,  128 
Adormidera,  1191 
Adraganthin,  1643 
Adrian’s  haemostatic,  958 
ASgle  Marmelos,  326 
iEnas  afer,  402 
iEpiste,  1213 
Aerugo,  561 
crystallisata,  560 
destillata,  560 
.Esculetin,  770,  814 
.Esculin,  770,  814 
Esculus  hippocastanum,  770,  813 
Pavia,  814 
vEthene,  1104 
Aether,  129 
aceticus,  137 
bromatus,  141 
formicicus,  137 
formicus,  132 
hydriodicus,  143 
bydrobromicus,  141 
methylethylicus,  132 
methylicus,  132,  137 
petrolei,  333 
purus,  130 
pyroaceticus,  11 
reiner,  130 
sulphuricus,  129 
alcoholisatus,  1495 
Etheriscke  Extrakte,  1100 
(Ele,  1089 
Etherolea,  1089 
Etherweingeist,  1495 
Ethiops  antimonialis,  840 
cretaceus,  847 
martialis,  736 
mineralis,  840 
saccharatus,  1022 
Ethusa  Cynapium,  531 
Ethyl  bromidum,  141 
iodidum,  143 


Etliylbromid,  141 
Ethylenchlorkl,  139 
AEtbyleni  bichloridum,  139 
Ethylenum  chloratum,  139 
Etzammoniak,  248 
Etzkali,  975,  1269 
Etzkalk,  379 
Etznatron,  981,  1448 
Etzpulver,  1273 
Aff'enbrot,  123 
African  bdellium,  1069 
kino,  911 
marigold,  377 
pepper,  403 
saffron,  415,  556 
Agar-agar,  473 
Agaric  blanc,  144 
de  chene,  759 
moucbe,  760 
white,  144 
Agaricin,  144,  760 
Agaricinsaure,  144 
Agaricinum,  144 
Agarico  bianco,  144 
yesca,  759 
Agaricus  albus,  144 
chirurgorum,  759 
igniarius,  759 
muscarius,  760 
Agatbin,  227,  232 
Agathotes  Chirayta,  451 
Agave  spec.,  145 
Agouman,  1225 
Agresta,  1677 
Agrimonia  Eupatoria,  145 
parviflora,  146 
Agrimony,  145 
Agripaume,  933 
Agropyrum  repens,  1647 
Agtstein,  1155 
Agua,  237 
alcanforada,  255 
de  azahar,  254 
de  alquitran,  264 
de  rosada,  265 
de  yerba  buena,  264 
Aguacata,  932 
Aguamiel,  145 
Aguardiente  de  maguey,  145 
Aigremoine,  145 
Ail,  159 

Ailanthus  excelsa,  146 
glandulosa,  146 
malabarica,  146 
Aix-la-Chapelle  spring,  268 
Ajenjos,  4 
Ajowan,  560 
Aj  uapar,  819 

Ajuga  Chamsepitys,  1589 
Iva,  1589 
pyramidal  is,  1589 
reptans,  1589 
Akakia,  427 
Akazga,  1086,  1384 
Akonitblatter,  117 
Akonitknollen,  117 
extrakt,  647,  648 
fliissiges,  648 
liniment,  938 
tinktur,  1605 
Akoniton,  117 
Alabaster,  376 
Alant  camphor,  876 
Alantol,  876 
Alantwurzel,  875 
Alaun,  169 
gebrannter,  173 
glycerit,  783 
Alaunmolken,  917 
Alazar,  415 
Albane,  801 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


1795 


Albarraz,  1512 
Albizza  authelmintica,  910 
Albumen  ovi,  147 
Alcan  for,  386 
Alcaparro,  403 
Alcaraveo,  415 
Alcea  rosea,  168 
Alcohol,  147,  779 
absolute,  147,  149,  150,  152 
ammoniated,  1499 
amyl,  amylic,  156 
active,  156 
tertiary,  200 
ainylicum,  156 
camphoratus,  1502 
camphyl,  388 
caustic,  982 
deodorized,  147,  152 
diluted,  dilutum,  147,  149,  152 
ethvlic,  147,  149,  152 
metbylic,  157 
methylicum,  157 
pentyl,  156 
phenic,  37 
pyroligneous,  157 
pyroxylic,  157 
salicylic,  1400 
stronger,  152 
styryl,  1533 
sulfuris,  409 

trichloramidoethylic,  455 
vini,  147 
Alcoholados,  1602 
Alcoholometer,  150 
Alcool,  147 
amylique,  156 
assoluto,  150 
camphre,  1502 
de  bois,  157 
dilue,  149 
formique,  157 
isoamilico,  156 
methylique,  157 
Alcoolat  ammoniacal,  1499 
aromatique,  1500 
fetide,  1501 
antiscorbutique,  1501 
d’amandes  ameres,  1501 
d’anis,  1501 
de  cannelle,  1503 
de  cajeput,  1502 
de  chloroforme,  1502 
de  citron,  1505 
compose,  1507 
de  gaultherie,  1504 
de  genevre,  1505 
de  lavande,  1505 
de  menthe  poivree,  1506 
de  muscade,  1507 
de  phosphore,  1507 
de  romarin,  1508 
Alcoolats,  625,  1494 
Alcoolatum  fragrans,  1507 
Alcoolaturse,  1604 
Alcoole  aromatique  sulfurique, 
103 

d’anis  concentree,  625 
de  menthe  poivree,  625 
Alcooles,  625,  1602 
concentres,  625 
Aldehyde,  1195 
acetic,  1195 
ethylic.  1195 
salicylic,  1400 
Aldehyde-ammonia,  1195 
Aldehydum  trichloratum,  452 
Alder-bark,  161,  1318 
Alder  buckthorn,  755 
Aleppo  galls,  765 
Aleppy  cardamoms,  413 
Aletris  farineux,  158 


Aletris  farinosa,  158 
Aleurites  laccifera,  923 
triloba,  1130 
Alexandria  senna,  1439 
Alfilaria,  774 
Algarobia  glandulosa,  7 
Algarroba  de  Valencia,  419 
Alhagi  camelorum,  1019 
Alhenna,  350 
Alholva,  753 
Alhucema,  932 
Alisma  americanum,  158 
Plantago,  158 
Alizarin,  763,  764,  1314 
yellow,  1335 

Alkali  volatil  concret,  182 
Alkanet,  350 
Alkanna  tinctoria,  350 
wurzel,  350 
Alkannin,  350 
Alkekenges,  159 
Alkekengi,  159 
Alkermes,  512 
aurificum  minerale,  225 
minerale,  224 
Alkohol,  147 
Allanite,  416 
Alleluia,  1185 
Alliaire  commune,  513 
Alliaria  officinalis,  513 
Alligator  pear,  932 
Allium,  159 
ascalonicum,  160 
Cepa,  160 
Porrum,  159 
sativum,  159 
Schcenoprasum,  160 
Allspice.  1247 
Allume  usto,  173 
Allylaldehyde,  779 
Allyl  sulphocyanate,  1155 
tribromide,  160 
Almendras  amargas,  193 
dulces,  193 
Almizell,  1058 
Almond,  bitter,  193 
sweet,  193 
Almoraduz,  1184 
Alnus  glutinosa,  161 
serrulata,  161 
Aloe,  161 

American,  145 
barbadensis,  161 
capensis,  161 
ferox,  161 
Lingua,  161 
lucida,  161 
Perryi,  161 
purificata,  162 
socotrina,  161 
species,  161, 162 
spicata,  161 
vera,  161 
vulgaris,  161 
Aloebitter,  165 

| Aloedecoct,  zusammengesetztes 
576 

Aloeelixir,  1605 
Aloeextrakt,  649 
Aloeklystier,  613 
Aloepillen,  1238,  1239,  1240 
Aloes,  161 
purified,  162 
Aloes,  161 
depure,  162 
du  Cap,  161 

hepatique  des  Barbados,  161 
j lucide,  161 
sucotrin,  161 
Aloeresin,  165 
Aloetin,  165 


Aloetinktur,  1605 
Aloewein,  1703 
Aloin,  163,  165 
Aloinum,  164 
Aloisol,  165 
Alosa  Menhaden,  1134 
Alpenrose,  908 
Alphanaphtol,  1074 
Alpinia  Cardamomum,  412 
Galanga,  761 
officinarum,  761 
Alpinin,  761 
Alquitran,  1254 
Alraunwurzel,  328 
Alsei,  3 

Alsidium  Helminthochorton,  473 
Alsophila  lurida,  759 
Alstonamine,  166 
Alstonia  constricta,  166 
scholaris,  166 
spectabilis,  166 
Alstonicine,  166 
Alstonidine,  167 
Alstonine,  166 
Altea,  167 

Althaea  officinalis,  167 
rosea,  168 
taurinensis,  168 
Althee,  167 
Altramuz,  998 
Altsehadenwasser,  998 
Aluine,  3 
Alum,  169 
ammonium,  169 
ammonio-ferric,  723 
burnt,  173 
concentrated,  175 
dried,  173 
potassium,  169 
root,  812 
slate,  170 
stone,  170 
whey,  917 
Alumbre,  169 
Alumen,  169 

ammoniacale  ferricum,  723 
exsiccatum,  173 
ustum,  173 

Alumina  hydrata,  173 
Alumine  engelee,  174 
Alumini  acetas,  176 
aceto-tartras,  176 
et  ammonii  sulphas,  169 
et  potassii  sulphas,  169 
hydras,  173 
nitras,  176 
sulphas,  175 
Aluminum,  174 
acetate,  176,  177 
aceto-glycerinate,  177 
aceto-tartrate,  172,  176 
and  potassium  sulphate,  169 
chloride,  176,  177 
hydrate,  173,  175 
hydroxide,  173 
naphtolsulphonate,  1074 
nitrate,  176,  177 
oxide,  174 
sulfuricum,  175 
sulphate,  175 
i Alumnol,  1074 
i Alun  ammoniacal,  169 
brule,  calcine,  173 
I de  fer  ammoniacal,  723 
desseche,  173 
I Alunite,  170 
Amadou,  759 
Amalgamation,  287 
Amandes  ameres,  193 
douces,  193 
Amandin,  194 


1796 


Amanita  muscaria,  760 
Amanitin,  760 
Amapola,  1380 
Amarantus  spec.,  1308 
Amber,  177,  1155 
Ambergris,  177 
Amberkraut,  1588 
Ambra  cinerea,  177 
flava,  1155 
grisea,  177 
Ambre  blanc,  439 
gris,  177 
jaune,  1155 
Ambre'in,  177 
Ambretta,  168 
Ambrina  anthelmintica,  446 
Ambrosia  spec.,  178 
Ambrosie,  178 
du  Mexique,  447 
Ameisenather,  132 
Ameisensaure,  53 
American  aloes,  145 
calumba,  773 
cannabis,  393 
centaury,  1391 
hellebore,  1692 
hemp,  393 
holly,  861 
horsemint,  1045 
ipecac,  632,  777 
isinglass,  860 
ivy,  193 

mountain-ash,  1491 
nutgalls,  765 
pennyroyal,  806 
saffron,  415,  555 
spikenard,  275 
veratrum,  1692 
vermilion,  1280 
wormseed,  446 
Amerikanische  Narde,  275 
Amerikanischer  Hanf,  393 
Wurmsamen,  446 
Amidin,  202 
Amido,  201 
Amidobenzene,  211 
Amidosuccinamide,  168 
Amidotoluene,  212 
Amidon  de  canne,  204 
de  maize,  201 
Ammivisnaga,  477 
Ammon.  See  Ammonium. 
Ammonia  aqua  soluta,  248 
gaseous,  249 
muriatic,  185 
nitrate,  189 
phosphate,  190 
water,  248,  250 
Ammoniac,  178 
African,  179 
Ammoniaca,  248 
Ammoniacum,  178 
Ammonise.  See  Ammonii. 
hydrocliloras,  murias,  185 
sesquicarbonas,  182 
Ammoniak.  See  also  Ammonium. 
Ammoniakalaun,  169 
Ammoniak-Emulsion,  610 
Ammoniak-Fliissigkeit,  248 
Ammoniakgeist,  aromatischer, 
1500 

Ammoniak-Glycyrrhizin,  788 
Ammoniakgummi,  178 
Ammoniak-Kali,  weinsaurer,  1316 
Ammoniak-Liniment  940 
Ammoniakweingcist,  1499 
Ammoniaque,  178 
liquide,  248 

Aminoniated  glycyrrhizin,  788 
mercury,  846 
Ammonii  benzoas,  180 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


Ammonii — 
bicarbonas,  183 
bromidum,  180 
carbonas,  182 
pyro-oleosus,  184 
chloridum,  185 
et  bismuth!  citras,  339 
et  ferri  chloridum,  186 
et  potassii  tartras,  1316 
formas,  formias,  53 
iodidum,  188 
murias,  185 
nitras,  189 
phosphas,  190 
sulphas,  191 
valerianas,  192 
Ammonio-ferric  citrate,  722 
sulphate,  723 
tartrate.  724 
Ammonium  acetate,  948 
and  bismuth  citrate,  339 
baldriansaures,  192 
benzoate,  180 
benzoesaures,  180 
benzoicum,  180 
bromatum,  180 
bromide,  180 
carbamate,  183 
carbonate,  182 
carbonicum,  182 
pyro-oleosum,  184 
chloratum,  185 
ferratum,  186 
chloride,  185 
purified,  185 
citrate,  949 
citronsaures,  949 
essigsaures,  948 
fluoride,  67 
formate,  54 
glycyrrhizate,  787 
liydrochloratum  depuratum,  185 
iodatum,  188 
iodide,  188 
kohlensaures,  182 
muriaticum,  185 
nitrate,  189 
nitricum,  189 
phosphate,  190 
phosphoricum,  190 
phosphorsaures,  190 
salpetersaures,  189 
schwefelsaures,  191 
sulphate,  191 
sulphocyanate,  410 
sulphuricum,  191 
urate,  800 
valerate,  192 
valerianate,  192 
weinsaures  Kali-,  1316 
Amomis  acris,  1137 
Amomum  aromaticum,  413 
Cardamomum,  412 
Curcuma,  568 
globosum,  maximum,  413 
Granum  paradisi,  1737 
Melegueta,  1737 
repens,  412 
Zedoaria,  1719 
Zerumbet,  1719,  1737 
Zingiber,  1735 
Amoniaco  liquido,  248 
Ampelopsis  Botrya,  193 
quinquefolia,  193 
| Amygdala  amara,  193 
dulcis,  193 

Amygdalin,  194,  1320 
Amygdalus  communis,  193,  1105 
Persica,  1207 
Amyl-Alkohol,  156 
Amyl-hydride,  200 


| Amyl — 

hydroxide,  156 
nitras,  nitrate,  196 
nitris,  nitrite,  195 
Amylsether  nitrosus,  195 
Amylalkohol,  156 
Amylamina,  1645 
Amylamine,  1645 
Amylene,  200 
hydrate,  200 

Amylenum  hydratum,  200 
Amylin,  202 
Amylium  nitrosum,  195 
Amylnitrit,  195 
Amylopsin,  1189 
Amylum,  201 
cannse,  204 
iodatum,  206,  207 
manihot,  205 
marantse,  204 
maydis,  203 
oryzse,  203 
solani,  203 
Amyrin,  596 

Anacamptis  pyramidalis,  1399 
Anacardium  latifolium,  207 
occidentale,  207 
orientale,  207 
Anacardo,  207 
Anacyclus  officinarum,  1333 
Pyrethrum,  1333 
Anagallis  ccerulea,  1318 
arvensis,  1318 
Analgen,  450 
Analgesin,  226 
Anamirtin,  1227 
Anastatica  Cocculus,  1226 
paniculata,  1226 
liieroehuntica,  513 
Anchieta  salutaris,  1711 
Anchusa  officinalis,  350 
tinctoria,  350 
Anda  assti,  568 
brasiliensis,  568 
Gomesii,  568 
Anderjoia  bark,  167 
Andira  anthelmintica,  208,  473 
Araroba,  473 
inermis,  208 
retusa,  208 
spectabilis,  473,  913 
vermifuga,  473 
Andirin,  209 
Andornkraut,  1020 
Andromeda  arborea,  908 
mariana,  908 
polyfolia,  908 

Andropogon  Schoenanthus,  1148 
Anemone  Hepatica,  811 
spec.,  1322,  1323 
Anemopsis  californica,  1427 
Aneth,  209 
Anethene,  1108 
Anethi  fructus,  209 
Anethum  fceniculum,  752 
graveolens,  209 
Angelica-root,  209 
tree,  274 

Angelica  spec.,  207 
Angelicin,  210 
Angelim  amargosa,  208,  473 
doce,  474 
pedra,  913 
Angeline,  913 
Angelique,  209 
Anghuzeh  i Lari,  295 
Angosturine,  210 
Angustura,  211 
Angustura-bark,  210 
I Angustura-Infusion,  870 
I Anhalonine,  356 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


Anhalonium  Lewini,  356,  357 
Anidriile  cromica,  57 
Anil,  865 

Anilina,  Aniline,  211,  865 
Aniline  dyes,  212 
Animal  charcoal,  408 
purified,  408 
Anime,  1587 
Anis,  214 
Anis  etoile,  863 
vert,  214 

Anise,  Aniseed,  214 
Anisessenz,  625 
Anisgeist,  1501 
Anisdl,  1110 
Anisum,  214 
vulgare,  214 
Aniswasser,  254 
Annidalin,  879 
Anodynine,  226 
Annota,  291 

Anonymos  sempervirens,  769 
Anserine,  774 
puante,  447 
sauvage,  447 
* vermifuge,  446 
Antennaria  dioica,  789 
margaritacea,  789 
plantaginifolia,  789 
Anthemidine,  546, 1026 
Anthemis,  215 
arvensis,  215,  1026 
Cotula,  546 
nobilis,  215,  1111 
Pyrethrum,  1333 
Anthophylli,  417 
Anthracene,  165,  764 
Anthraquinone,  764 
Anthrarobin,  475 
Anthriscus  sylvestris,  531 
Antiarin,  217 
Antiaris  toxicaria,  216 
Antichlor,  1471 
Antidotum  arsenici,  737 
Antifebrin,  8 
Antifebrium,  8 
Antihydropin,  399 
Antikamnia,  11 
Antilope  dorcas,  1060 
Antimoine  cru,  223 
sulfure,  223 

Antimonii  et  potassii  tartras,  217 
oxidum,  221 

oxysulpburetum,  224,  225 
pentasulphidum,  225 
potassio-tartras,  217 
sulpbidum,  223 
sulphuretum,  223 
aureum,  224,  225 
praecipitatum,  224,  225 
Antimonium  crudum,  223 
diaphoreticum,  222 
muriaticum  liquidum,  949 
nigrum,  223 
purificatum,  223 
sulphuratum,  224 
tartaratum,  217 
tartarisatum,  217 
Antimonous-antimonic  oxide,  222 
sulphide,  223 
Antimonoxyd,  222 
Antimony  and  potassium  tartrate, 
217 
ash,  222 
black,  223 
crude,  223 
diaphoretic,  222 
glass,  222 

golden  sulphuret,  225 
ochre,  oxide,  221 
oxysulphuret,  225 


I Antimony — 
sulphide,  223 
sulphurated,  224 
tartarated,  217 
trioxide,  221 
trisulphide,  223 
Antinervine,  11 
Antipyrina,  226 
salicylate,  227 
Antipyrine,  226 
Antipyrinum,  226 
Antirrhinum  Liuaria,  938 
Antisepsin,  9 
Antiseptin,  879 
Antiseptol,  879 
Antithermin,  227,  232 
Apatropine,  306 
Apfelsinenol,  1111 
Apfelsinenschalen,  312 
conserve,  312 

Apfelsinenschaalentinktur,  1607 

Aphis  chinensis,  765 

Aphrodaescin,  814 

Aphyllon  uniflorum,  614 

Apiin,  1212 

Apio  silvestro,  1212 

Apiol,  1212 

Apis  mellifica,  430,  1027 
Apium  graveolens,  1212 
petroselinum,  1211 
Aplopappus  discoideus,  574 
Apoaconitine,  114 
Apocolchiceine,  518 
Apocynein,  233 
Apocynin,  233 
Apocynum,  233 
androsaemifolium,  233 
cannabinum,  233 
Apollinaris  spring,  267 
Apomorphine,  234,  1171 
hydrochlorate,  234 
Apomorphinae  hydrochloras,  234 
Apomorphinum  hydrochloric,  234 
Apoquinamine,  489 
Aporetin,  1378 
Apotheme,  646 
Apozeme  sudorifique,  579 
Apozemes,  867 
Appert’s  method,  851 
Apple  of  Peru,  159 
Apple  whiskey,  1503 
Apyonin,  213 
Aqua,  237 
acidi  carbonici,  46 
acidula  simplicior,  46 
alcalina  eflervescens,  985 
ammoniae,  186,  248 
fortior,  248 

amygdalae  amarae,  253 
amygdalarum  amararum,  253 
diluta,  254 
anethi,  254 
anisi,  215,  254 
aurantii  fioris,  254 
florum,  254 
fortior,  254 
calcaria,  calcis,  952 
ustae,  952 
camphorae,  255 
camphorata,  255 
carbolisata,  39 
carbon  ica,  46 
carui,  255 
cerasorum,  254 
chlorata,  256 
chlori,  chlorinii,  256 
chloroformi,  258 
cinnamomi,  259 
spirituosa,  259 
vinosa,  259 
coloniensis,  1507 


1797 


Aqua — 
communis,  260 
creosoti,  259 
destillata,  260 
florum  aurantii,  254 
naphae,  254 
foeniculi,  260 

fcetida  antihysterica,  1501 
fortis,  73 
hamamelidis,  261 
hydrogenii  dioxidi,  261 
laurocerasi,  263 
laxativa  Viennensis,  774 
lithiae  eflervescens,  970 
magnesio-eflervescens,  970 
melissae,  1031 
menthae  piperitae,  264 
viridis,  264 
mercurialis  nigra,  998 
nigra,  998 
opii,  1175 
oxymuriatica,  256 
phagedaenica,  998 
nigra,  998 
picea,  1255 
picis,  264,  1255 
pimentae,  264 
plumbi,  975 
Goulardi,  975 
plumbica,  975 
potassae  eflervescens,  978 
regia,  77 

reginae  Hungariae,  1508 
regis,  76 
rosae,  265 
fortior,  265 
rosarum,  265 
rubi  idaei,  1569 
salviae,  1406 
sambuci,  265 
saturnina,  975 
sedativa,  265 
sodae  eflervescens,  985 
tiliae,  1602 
valerianae,  1682 
vegeto-mineralis  Goulardi,  975 
vitae,  1503 

vulneraria  Thedenii,  102 
Aquae  destillatae,  246 
medicatae,  246 
minerales,  265 
stillatitiae,  246 
Arabian  lavender,  933 
senna,  1440 
Arabinose,  7 
Arabisches  Gummi,  5 
Arabis  lyrata,  514 
Arachis  hypogaea,  1153 
Aralia-bark,  274 
Aralia  californica,  275 
edulis,  275 
Ginseng,  275 
nudicaulis,  275 
papyrifera,  275 
quinquefolia,  275, 
racemosa,  275 
spinosa,  274,  275 
Aralie  at  tige  nue,  275 
Araliin,  274 
Araliretin,  274 
Arancio  amaro,  310 
forte,  310 

Aranelo  amara,  313 
Araroba,  473 
Arbal  del  la  cera,  1064 
Arbor  vitae,  1598 
Arbre  a suif,  1064 
de  vie,  1598 
Arbutin,  448,  767 
Arbutus  uva  ursi,  1678 
Arcanson,  1364 


1798 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


Arcanum  duplicatum,  1313 
Archangelica  species,  209,  210 
Archil,  924 
Arctium  Lappa,  928 
majus,  minus.  928 
tomentosum,  928 
Arctostaphylos  glauca,  1680 
polifolia,  1680 
uva  ursi,  1678 
Areca,  276 
Catechu,  276,  426 
nut,  276 
Arecaine,  276 
Arecoline,  276 
Arekane,  276 
Arekanuss,  276 
Arenaria  rubra,  615 
Arenga  saccharifera,  205 
Argel-leaves,  1440 
Argemone  mexicana,  276,  1048 
Argent,  287 
raffine,  287 

Argenti  cyanidum,  277 
et  potassii  nitras,  280 
iodidum,  278 
nitras,  278 
dilutus,  280 
fusus,  281 
oxidum,  285 
Argentic  oxide,  285 
Argentine,  774 
Argento,  287 
Argentum,  287 
cyanatum,  277 
foliatum,  287 
iodatum,  278 

nitricum  crystallisatum,  278 
cum  kalio-nitrico,  280 
fusum,  281 
mitigatum,  280 
oxydatum,  285 
purificatum,  287 
Argentum  vivum,  840 
Argilla  ferruginea,  349 
hydrata,  173 
pura,  173 
Argol,  1280 
Argyrcescin,  814 
Argyritis,  1265 
Aricine,  488 
Arillus  myristicse,  1003 
Arissema  triphyllum,  294 
Aristol,  879 
Aristolochia  spec. , 1442 
Aristolochin,  1444 
Armenian  bole,  349 
Armoise  commune,  4 
Armoracia  rusticana,  288 
Arnica,  289 
flowers,  289 
montana,  289 
root,  289 

Arnicse  rhizoma,  289 
Arnicin,  290 
Arnikabliithen,  289 
Arnika-Extrakt,  650 
Arnikapflaster,  600 
Arnikatinktur,  1606 
Arnikawurzel,  289 
Arnique,  289 
Arnotta,  291 
Aro,  294 

Aromatisclier  Essig,  14 

Aromatisches  Elixir,  597 

Aron,  294 

Aroz,  203 

Arrak,  148 

Arroru,  204 

Arrowroot,  204 

Arsen,  293 

Arseni  iodidum,  292 


Arsenias  ferrosus,  716 
natricus,  1451 
sodicus,  1451 
Arseniate  de  fer,  716 
de  soude,  1451 
Arsenic,  22,  293 
antidote,  737 
blanc,  22 
bromide,  28,  948 
detection  of,  24 
iodide,  292 
native,  293 
oxide,  293 
sulphide,  24, 
trioxide,  22 
white,  22 

Arsenici  iodidum,  292 
Arsenico  bianco,  22 
bianco,  22 
Arsenicum,  293 
album,  22 
iodatum,  292 
Arsenige  Saure,  22 
Arsenii  iodidum,  292 
Arsenik,  293 
Arsenous  anhydride,  22 
bromide,  293  . 
chloride,  293,  947 
hydride,  293 
iodide,  292 
Arsenium,  293 
iodide,  292 
Arsentrijodid,  292 
Arsenum,  293 
iodatum,  292 
Arsine,  293 

Arthanite,  Arthanitin,  772 
Artanthe  adunca,  1024 
crocatum,  1249 
elongata,  1024 
lancesefolia,  1024 
Mollicoma,  1230 
Artemisia  Abrotanum,  4 
Absinthium,  3 
abyssinica,  5 
arbuscula,  5 
cina,  1412 

Dracunculoides,  4,  5 
dracunculus,  4,  1110 
filifolia,  4,  5 
frigida,  4 
Lercheana,  1412 
Ludoviciana,  4,  5 
maritima,  1412 
pauciflora,  1412 
pontica,  4 
ramosa,  1413 
tridentata,  4 
trifida,  5 
vulgaris,  4,  5 
Artocarpus  incisa,  752 
integrifolia,  752 
Arum  Colocasia,  294 
esculentum,  294 
maculatum,  294 
triphyllum,  294 
Asa  dulcis,  334 
Asafcetida,  295 
Emulsion,  611 
Klystier,  613 
Asagrsea  officinalis,  1390 
Asant,  295 
Asanttinktur,  1607 
Asaprol,  1074 
Asarabacca,  297 
Asarene,  297 
Asaret,  297 
Asarit,  Asarin,  297 
Asarol,  Asa-ron,  297 
Asarum  canadense,  297 
europseum,  297 


Asarum — 

Sieboldii,  297 
Asbestos,  986 
Asclepiade,  298 
Asclepiadines  298,  299 
Asclepias  asthmatica,  895 
cornuti,  298 
currasavica,  299,  895 
geminata,  811 
gigantea,  299 
incarnata,  299 
pseudo-sarsa,  811 
syriaca,  298 
tingens,  865 
tuberosa,  298 
Yincetoxicum,  299 
Asclepias,  flesh-colored,  298 
Asclepin,  Asclepion,  299 
Ascyrum  crux-Andrese,  858 
Asefetide,  295 
Asellus  major,  1132 
Aseptol,  40 
Ash,  756 

Asparagin,  168,  300,  1384 
Asparago,  300 
Asparagus  ascend  ens,  300 
officinalis,  300 
racemosus,  300 
sarmentosus,  300 
Asperge,  300 
Asperula  odorata,  763 
Asphaltum,  1210 
Aspidin,  301 

Aspidium  athamanticum,  301 
Filix  mas,  301 
marginale,  301 
rigidum,  301 
spinulosum,  301 
Aspidosamine,  303 
Aspidosperma  Quebracho,  303 
Aspidospermatine,  303 
Aspidospermine,  303 
Asplenium  Adiantum  nigrum,  128 
Filix  foemina,  301 
Euta  muraria,  128 
thelipteroides,  301 
Assacou,  819 
Assafetida,  295 
Assam  musk,  1059 
Assenzio,  3 

Astacus  fluviatilis,  553 
Astragalus  spec.,  1642,  1643 
Astrantia  major,  1411 
Astrocaryum  vulgare,  1142 
Athamanta  Oreoselinum,  865 
Athamantin,  865 
Atherospermia  moschata,  348 
Atherospermine,  348 
Atis,  119 
Atisine,  119 
Atlanchana,  1003 
Atractylis  gummifera,  1024 
Atropa  Belladonna,  327 
Mandragora,  328 
Atropia,  Atropina,  305 
Atropin  schwefelsaures,  306,  951 
Atropinse  salicylas,  307 
sulphas,  306 
Atropine  discs,  927 
salicylate,  307 
sulphate,  306 
Atropinsalbe,  1661 
Atropinsulfat,  306 
Atropinum,  305 
sulfuricum,  306 
Atrosin,  328 
Attar  of  rose,  1145 
Attich,  1407 
Aubletia  trifolia,  1230 
Aufgiisse,  866 
Augentrost,  635 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


1799 


Aune  noire,  755 
Aunee  commune,  875 
officinale,  875 
Auramines,  213 
Aurantia  immatura,  311 
Aurantium  amarum,  310 
Auric  chloride,  314 
Auri  chloridum,  314 
cyanidum.  314 
et  ammonii  chloridum,  314 
et  sodii  chloridum,  313 
iodidum,  314 
oxidum,  314 
pulvis,  314 
Auricula,  1318 
Aurimaru,  566 
Auripigmentum,  293 
Auro-natrium  chloratum,  313 
Auro-potassium  cyanide,  314 
Aurone  male,  4 
Aurous  iodide,  314 
Aurum  foliatum,  314 
Austerschalen,  553 
Australian  gum,  7 
kino,  91 
manna,  1019 
Ava,  1025 
Arena  farina,  316 
sativa,  316 
spec.,  316 

Avenaria  rubra,  1419 
Avenin,  316 
Avens,  776 

Avocado,  Avocatier,  932 
Avornin,  756 
Axonge,  123 
halsamique,  124 
benzoinee,  124 
Axungia,  123 
balsamica,  124 
benzoata,  124 
benzoinata,  124 
castoris,  421 
pedum  tauri,  1114 
porci,  123 
porcina,  123 
Ayuda,  613 

Azadirachta  indica,  316 
Azafran,  554 
Azafrancillo,  415 
Azabar,  313 
Azaleine,  212 
Azaro,  297 
Azedarach,  316 
Azobenzid,  212 
Azolitmin,  924 
Azotas  argenticus,  278 
fusus,  281 
hydrargyrosus,  968 
plumbicus,  1264 
potassicus,  1278 
sodicus,  1472 
Azotate  d’alumine,  176 
d’ammoniaque,  189 
d’ argent,  278 
fondu,  281 
nitrate,  280 

de  bismuth  neutre,  344 
de  fer  liquide,  963 
de  plomb,  1264 
de  potasse,  1307 
de  soude,  1472 
mercureux,  968 
mercurique,  967 
Azotite  d’amyl,  195 
Azoxybenzid,  1106 
Azucar,  1394 
de  cana,  1394 
de  leche,  1398 
Azufayfas,  905 
Azulene,  1027 


BABLAH,  427 
Babul-bark,  427 
Baccse  aurantii  immaturi,  311 
cubebse,  556 
juniperi,  906 
lauri,  931 
phytolaccse,  1225 
spinse  cervinse,  1374 
Baccharis  veneta,  574 
Bachbungen,  1695 
Bactyrilobium  Fistula,  418 
Baden  springs,  266,  269 
Baden-Baden  spring,  268 
Badescbwamm,  1509 
Badger,  1060 
Badiane,  863 
Bael-fruit,  326 
Baerenklaue,  812 
Baguanaudier,  526 
Baies  de  genievre,  906 
de  ronce,  1388 
Balgena  australis,  1134 
mysticetus,  1134 
Balata,  802 

Balaustier,  Balaustrias,  792 
Baldrian,  1681 
Baldrianaufguss,  874 
Baldrianextrakt,  709 
Baldrianol,  1166 
Baldriansaure,  113 
Baldriantinktur,  1640 
ammoniakalische,  1640 
Baleine,  1132 
Ballotta  nigra,  934 
Balm,  1031 
of  Gilead,  1069 
fir,  1584 
Balmony,  446 
Balsam  apple,  559 
capivi,  536 
copaiva,  536 
gurjun,  538 
lagam,  539 
Mecca,  1069 
pine,  1586 
sumbul,  1545 
of  fir,  1584 
of  Peru,  318 
of  sulphur,  1540 
of  Tolu,  320 
Balsamea  africana,  1068 
Mukul,  1068 
Balsam  e bianco,  320 
de  Tolu,  320 

Balsamita  suaveolens,  1579 
Balsamite,  1579 
Balsamo  de  liquidambar,  946 
Balsamodendron  africanum,  1069 
Ehrenbergianum,  1068 
Mukul,  1068 
Myrrha,  1067 
Opobalsamum,  1068,  1069 
Balsamo  de  San  Salvador,  318 
negro,  318 
peruviano,  318 
tolutano,  320 
Balsamum  Arcsei,  1663 
canadense,  1584 
commendatoris,  1609 
Copaivse,  536 
gileadense,  1069 
hungaricum,  1586 
indicum,  318 
nucistse,  1138 
opodeldoc,  942 
peru vianum,  318 
nigrum,  318 
styracis,  1532 
sulphuris,  1130 
terebintbinatum,  1130 
tolutanum,  320 


Balsamum — 

vitse  Hoflmanni,  320 
Bambuk  butter,  1162 
Bandolin,  1063 
Baneberry,  122 
Banksia  abyssinica,  570 
Baobab,  123 
Baptiu,  Bapticin,  322 
Baptisia  tinctoria,  322 
Baptitoxin,  322 
Barbadoes  aloes,  161,  162 
nut,  570 
tar,  1210 

Barbaloin,  163,  164 
Barbarea  vulgaris,  513 
Barbary  almonds,  194 
gum,  5 

wormseed,  1413 
Barbas  de  Cbiva,  501 
Barbatimao,  427 
Barbe  de  chevre,  1494 
Barberry,  336,  793 
Barbimao,  427 
Barbotine,  1412 
Bardane,  928 
Bareges  spring,  265 
Barentraubenblatter,  1678 
Aufguss,  874 
Extrakt,  709 
Barii  bromidum,  324 
carbonas,  324 
chloridum,  324 
dioxidum,  322 
hydras,  324 
iodidum,  324 
sulphas,  324 
Barilla,  1462 
Barium  bromide,  324 
carbonate,  324 
carbonicum,  324 
chloride,  324 
dioxide,  322 
hydrate,  224 
byperoxide,  322 
iodide,  323 
peroxide,  322 
sulphocarbolate,  1486 
Barlappsamen,  1001 
Barley  flour,  817 
malt,  1013 
sugar,  1394 
Barosma  betulina,  354 
camphor,  355 
crenata,  354 
crenulata,  354 
Eckloniana,  355 
serratifolia,  355 
Barracco,  675 
Barus  camphor,  388 
Baryt  kohlensaurer,  324 
Baryta  carbonica,  324 
muriatica,  324 
Barythydrat,  224 
Baryum,  223 
chloratum,  324 
Basham’s  mixture,  963 
Basil,  858 

Basilicon  ointment,  436 
Basilienkraut,  933 
Bassia  butyracea,  1047,  1161 
latifolia,  1162 
longifolia,  1047,  1161 
Parkii,  1162 
Bassora  gum,  1643 
Basso  rin,  1643 
Bass-wood,  1601 
Bastard  ipecacuanha,  270,  1646 
Batata  purgante,  903 
Bateman’s  drops,  1632 
Bath  spring,  269 
Batiator,  896 


1800 


Battley’s  sedative  drops,  1633 
Bauchee-seeds,  1321 
Bauernsenf,  514 
Baume  de  Canada,  1584 
de  Carthagene,  320 
de  cheval,  520 
de  copahu,  536 
de  Perou,  318 
de  savon,  942 
de  Tolu,  320 
des  Indes,  318 
du  commaudeur,  1609 
nerval,  1149 
ophthalmic  rouge,  1667 
opodeldoch,  942 
tranquille,  854 
vert,  1033 
Baumdl,  1140 
Baumwolle,  790 
Baumwollol,  1125 
Baumwoll  Wurzelrinde,  789 
Extrakt,  677 
Bauracon,  1458 
Bay,  931,  1136 
Bayberries,  931 
Bayberry,  1064,  1137 
tallow,  1064 
Baycuru,  1514 
Bay-laurel,  California,  1427 
Bay  61,  1136 
Bay-rum,  1506 
Bdellium,  1068 
Bean  of  St.  Ignatius,  1086 
tree,  422 
trefoil,  914 

Bearberry-leaves,  1678 
Bear’s  weed,  623 
Beaver  tree,  1011 
Beberime  sulphas,  325 
Beberine,  325,  1077 
sulphate,  325 
Bebeeru-bark,  325,  1077 
Bebirin  scbwefelsaures,  325 
Beccabunga,  1695 
Bec-de-gru6,  773 
Becuiba  tallow,  1138 
Bedford  spring,  266 
Bedstraw,  763 
Beech  drop,  614 
oil,  1126 

Beer  vinegar,  12,  13 
yeast,  436 
Beeswax,  430 
Beggar’s  weed,  502 
Beifuss,  4 
Beinschwarz,  405 
Beinwurz,  1550 
Bel,  Bela,  326 
Belaextrakt,  652 
Beleno  negro,  853 
Bell  metal,  565 
Belladone,  327 
Belladonna  Blatter,  327 
Glycerit,  784 
juice,  1534 
leaves,  327 
liniment,  939 
pilaster,  601 
root,  167,  327 
tinktur,  1608 
Wurzel,  327 
Belladonnasaft,  1534 
Belladonnine,  306 
Belly  benzoin,  334 
Belugo,  860 
Benedictendistel,  413 
Bengal  cardamoms,  413 
kino,  912 
quince,  326 
turmeric,  569 
Bengaliscbe  Quitte,  326 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


Benjoin,  334 
Benjui,  334 
Benne,  1153 
Ben-nuts,  1154 
Benoite  aquatique,  776 
Benzalcoliol,  319,  1106 
Benzaldehyde,  1106 
Benzanilid,  9, 11 
Benzene,  332 
Benzenum,  332 
Benzidam,  211 
Benzimid,  1106 
Benzin,  333, 1210 
Benzinum  petrolei,  333 
Benzoas  ammonicus,  180 
litbicus,  988 
sodicus,  1452 

Benzoate  d’ammoniaque,  180 
de  lithine,  988 
de  soude,  1452 
Benzoated  lard,  124 
Benzoe,  334 
Benzoeblumen,  31 
Benzoelorbeer,  932 
Benzoesaure,  31 
Benzoesclimalz,  124 
Benzoetinktur,  1608 
Benzoic  sulpbinide,  1393 
Benzoin,  334,  1106 
odoriferum,  932 
Benzoinated  lard,  124 
Benzoino,  334 
Benzoinum,  334 
Benzol,  332 
Benzonapbthol,  1073 
Benzo-phenoneid,  213 
Benzopyrine,  227 
Benzosol,  799 
Benzoylaconine,  119 
Benzoylecgonine,  505 
Benzoyleugenol,  1117 
Benzoyliodide,  1107 
Benzoylguaiacol,  799 
Benzoylsulphonicimide,  1393 
Benzylic  alcohol,  319 
benzoate,  319 
cinnamate,  319 
Berbamine,  337 
Berberide,  336 
Berberine,  336,  379,  541,  849 
Berberis,  336 
aquifolium,  337 
aristata,  337 
spec.,  337 
Lycium,  591 
vulgaris,  336 
Beberitzen,  336 
Berberos,  336 
Berbine,  337 
Berce,  812 
Bergamot,  1113 
Bergamotol,  1113 
Bergaptene,  1113 
Bergol,  1209 
Bergpoley,  1589 
Bergthee,  767 
spiritus  (geist),  1504 
Berlin  red,  735 
Berliner  Blau,  729 
Bernsteinol,  1155 
Bernsteinsaure,  96 
Berro,  513 

Bertholletia  excelsa,  1126 
Bertramblumen,  1334 
Bertramgarbe,  17 
Bertramwurzel,  1333 
Bertramwurzel  tinktur,  1634 
Beruf kraut,  623 
Berubigungssaft,  1565 
Besengiuster,  1431 
Besenginster-Absud,  580 


Besenginster — 

Extrakt,  703 
Besenginstersaft,  1535 
Besenna  anthelmintica,  910 
Bestucheff’s  tincture,  1619 
Beta  vulgaris,  1394 
Betacolcbicoresin,  518 
Betaine,  591,  939,  1645 
Betaisoamylene,  200 
Betanapbtbol,  1072 
benzoate,  1073 
salicylate,  1073 
Betaquinine,  488 
Bete  noir,  399 
Betel,  1025 
nut,  276 
tree,  276 
Betelnuss,  276 
Betbroot,  1644 
Betoine,  934 
Betonica  officinalis,  934 
Betol,  1073 
Betula,  337 
alba,  338,  1255 
Alnus,  161 
lenta,  338,  1124 
papyracea,  338 
Betulin,  338 
Beulenbrand,  1718 
Beurre  d’antimoine  liquide,  949 
de  cacao,  1161 
de  coco,  1120 
de  Kokum,  766 
de  muscade,  1138 
de  palme,  1142 
vegetal,  932 
Bevilacqua,  851 
Bezoarwurzel,  534 
Bhang,  394 
Biacuru,  1514 
Biancardi  balena,  439 
Bibergeil,  421 
Bibergeiltinktur,  1613 
Bibernell,  936 
Bibirine,  326 
Bibirurinde,  1077 
Bicarbonas  kalicus,  1277 
potassicus,  1277 
sodicus,  1454 

Bicarbonate  de  potasse,  1277 
de  soude,  1454 
Bichlorallylene,  460 
Bicblorure  de  carbon,  411 
Bicbromas  kalicus,  1279 
Bichromate  de  potasse,  1279 
Bicyanure  de  mercure,  831 
Bidens  spec.,  339 
Biebernell,  935 
Bierhefe,  436 
Bigarade,  310 
Bigelovia  venata,  574 
Bignonia  capreolata,  423 
Caroba,  901 
Catalpa,  422 
Copaia,  901 
nodosa,  901 
sempervirens,  769 
Biiodure  de  mercure,  833 
Bikh-root,  119 
Bile-coloring  matters,  714 
Bile,  inspissated,  715 
Bile  de  bceuf  purifie,  714 
Bilifuscin,  714 
Bilihumin,  714 
Bilineurina,  1645 
Biliprasin,  714 
Bilirubin,  714 
Bilis  bubula,  714 
de  bure,  714 
Biliverdin,  7.14 
Bilsenkraut,  853 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


1801 


Bilsenkrautextrakt,  679,  689 
Bilsenkrauttinktur,  1623 
Bilsensaft,  1535 
Bilsensamen,  853 
Bilsted,  946 

Birch,  337 ; tar,  338,  1255 
Bird-glue,  Bird-lime,  1712 
Bird-pepper,  403 
Bird-weed,  775 
Bird’s-foot  violet,  1616 
Birke,  337 

Birken-ol,  — theer,  1255 
Birth-root,  1644 
Bisaingiinsel,  1589 
Bisamkoerner,  168 
Bish-root,  119 
Bisinna,  910 
Bismuth,  343 
carbonate,  341 
citrate,  339,  951 
lactate,  345 
nitrate,  344 
ochre,  343 
oleate,  1098 
oxide,  340 
oxychloride,  344 
purified,  343 
salicylate,  345 
subcarbonate,  341 
subgallate,  345 
subiodide,  345 
subnitrate,  342 
tannate,  345 
valerianate,  345 

Bismuthi  ammonio-citras,  339,  951 
carbonas,  341 
citras,  339 

et  ammonii  citras,  339,  952 
lactas,  34o 
nitras,  344 
oxidum,  340 
oxychloridum,  344 
phosphas,  345 
salicylas,  345 
subcarbonas,  341 
subiodidum,  345 
subnitras,  342 
tannas,  345 
ternitras,  344 
valerianas,  345 
Bismuthous  nitrate,  321 
Bismuthum,  343 
ammoniatum,  339,  951 
citricum,  339 
ammoniatum,  339 
‘ hydrico-nitricum,  342 
oxydatum,  340 
purificatum,  343 
subcarbonicum,  341 
subnitricum,  342 
tannicum,  345 
trisnitricum,  344 
valerian  icum,  345 
Bismuthyl  carbonate,  341 
chloride,  344 
hydroxide,  340 
iodide,  345 
nitrate,  342 
Bistorta,  775 
Bisulphis  sodicus,  1457 
Bisulphite  de  soude,  1457 
Bitartras  potassicus,  1280 
Bitter  almond-water,  253 
apple,  523 
ash,  1338 
orange,  310 
polygala,  1268 
Klystier,  613 
Bittercress,  513 
Bitter-cups,  1338 
Bitterklee,  1035 


| Bittermandelgeist,  1501 
Bittermandelol,  1105 
Bittermandelwasser,  253 
Bittersalz,  1008 
Bittersiiss-Aufguss,  870 
Bittersiiss-Extrakt,  668 
Bittersiiss-Stengel,  590 
Bittersweet,  590 
false,  429 
Bitterweed,  178 
Bitterwood,  1338 
Bitterwurzel,  771 
Bitumen,  1210 
Bixa  orellana,  291 
Bixin,  291 

Black  alder,  161,  755 
birch,  338 
bryony,  353 
cohosh,  478 
draught,  874 
drop,  15 
elm,  1657 
galls,  765 
ginger,  1735 
haw,  1696 
hellebore,  808 
horehound,  934 
jack,  1341 
lead,  408 
maidenhair,  128 
mustard,  1444 
night-shade,  328 
oak,  1341 
pepper,  1247 
phosphorus,  1218 
pitch,  1255 
root,  934 
rosin,  1365 
sanicle,  1411 
snakeroot,  478 
tang,  757 
tea,  1593 
wash,  998 
wood,  8,  934 
Blackberry,  1386,  1388 
Bladder  senna,  526 
wrack,  757 
Blanc  de  baleine,  439 
de  sacchare,  440 
d’Espagne,  552 
de  fard,  344 
d’ceuf,  147,  1713 
de  plomb,  1262 
de  Troyes,  552 
fix,  324 

Blanca rd’s  pills,  1243 
Blankenheim  tea,  934 
Blasenpflaster,  434 
Blasentang,  757 

Blasenzieliende  Fliissigkeit,  954 
Blatta  orientalis,  399,  402 
Blaud’s  ferruginous  pills,  1242 
Blauer  Vitriol,  561 
Blauholz,  804 
Blauholz-Asud,  577 
Blausaure,  63 
Blazing  star,  158,  442 
Ble  cornu,  615 
Bleaching  powder,  381 
Blei,  1266 
Bleicarbonate,  1262 
Bleicerat,  435 
Bleichfliissigkeit,  983 
Bleichkalk,  381 
Bleiessig,  973 
Bleiglatte,  1265 
Bleiglycerit,  785 
Bleihyperoxyd,  1266 
Bleioxyd,  1265 
essigsaures,  1258 
salpetersaures,  1264 


Bleipflaster,  605 
Bleisalbe,  43 
Bleisalpeter,  1264 
Bleiwasser,  975 
Bleiweiss,  1262 
Bleiweisspflaster,  (508 
Bleiweissalbe,  1670 
Bleizucker,  1258 
Blende,  1733 
Blessed  thistle,  413 
Bleu  de  Berliu,  729 
de  Prusse,  729 
suisse,  732 

Blistering  cerate,  434 
collodion,  521 
liquid,  954 
plaster,  434 
Blitzpulver,  1001 
Blood,  1409 
Bloodroot,  1408 
Blooming  spurge,  632 
Blue  cohosh,  428 
flag,  899,  900 
galls,  765 
gentian,  773 
gum  tree,  626 
mountain  tea,  1489 
mass,  1022 
ointment,  1664 
pill,  1022 
stone,  561 
vitriol,  561 
weed,  350 
Blueberry-root,  428 
Blue-bottle,  414 
Bluet,  414 

Blumea  balsamifera,  388 
Blut,  1409 
Blutegel,  814 
Blutliolz,  804 
Blutlaugensalz,  1299 
Blutstein,  735 
Blutwurzel,  1408 
Blutwurzel-Extrakt,  701 
Blutwurzel  tinktur,  1637 
Bocksbart,  1494 
Bockshornsamen,  753 
Bcehmeria  nivea,  792 
tenacissima,  792 
Bog-bean,  1035 
Bog-bilberry,  1679 
Bohnenbaum,  914 
Bohnenkraut,  859 
Bois  amer,  1338 
de  Campeche,  804 
de  gayac,  796 
d’lnde,  804 
de  reglisse,  786 
de  sang,  804 
doux,  786 
enivrante,  1251 
gentil,  1039 
sudorifiques,  796 
Bol,  349 
Boldine,  348 
Boldo,  348 
Boldoa  fragrans,  348 
Boldus,  348 
Bole,  349 

Bolet  amadouvier,  759 
Boletus  chirurgorum,  759 
fomentarius,  759 
igniarius,  759 
laricis,  144 
purgans,  144 
Bolus,  349,  1234 
alba,  349 

armena  rubra,  349 
Bombay  masticli,  1023 
senna,  1440 
Bombyx,  790 


1802 


Bon  Henry,  447 
Bonaire  aloes,  163 
Bonduc-nuts,  1154 
Bone,  1184 
ash,  1184 
black,  405 
phosphate,  374 
Boneset,  631 
Bone  spirit,  405 
Bonjean’s  ergo  tin,  617 
Bonnet  de  pretre,  629 
Bonplandia  trifoliata,  210 
Booko,  354 
Borage,  349 
Borago  officinalis,  349 
Boras  sodicus,  1458 
Borasch,  349 

Borate  d’ammoniaque,  1460 
de  soude,  1458 
Borax,  1458 
glycerit,  384 
honey,  1030 
tartarisata,  1316 
Boraxweinstein,  1316 
Bordeaux  turpentine,  1586 
Boretsch,  349 
Boric  anhydride,  35 
Borneene,  388,  1166 
Borneo  camphor,  388 
Borneol,  388,  1166 
Boroglyceridlosung,  784 
Borothymol  zinc-iodide,  879 
Borraja,  349 
Borsaure,  34 
Borsaure  weinstein,  1316 
Bos  taurus,  714,  915 
Boston  iris,  900 
Boswellia  spec.,  1166 
Botany  Bay  kino,  911 
Botryopsis  platyphylla,  1196 
Boucage,  936 
Bougies,  768 
Bougrane,  787 
Bouillon  blanc,  1694 
Bouillons,  867 
Bouleau,  337,  1255 
Boules  de  Mars,  726 
de  Nancy,  726 
Boundou,  1086 
Bourdaine,  755 
Bourgene,  755 
Bourgeous  de  pin,  1586 
de  sapin,  1586 
Bourrache,  349 
Bourse  a pasteur,  513 
Bovist,  1000 
Bovista  gigantea,  1000 
Bowdicliia  major,  322 
Bowman’s  root,  777 
Box,  1679 
Boxberry,  767 
Boxwood-bark,  793 
Brabanter  Myrte,  1065 
Brachdistel,  624 
Bran,  713 
Brandy,  148,  1508 
California,  1508 
Catawba,  1508 
Branntwein  Mixtur,  1045 
Brass,  565 
Brassica  alba,  1444 
campestris,  1446 
juncea,  1446 
Napus,1447 
nigra,  1444 
Rapa,  1447 
sinapioides,  1444 
sinapistrum,  1446 
Braunelle,  1434 
Brauner  Sirup,  1597 
Rraunheil,  1434 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


Braunstein,  1014 
Brauselithioncitrat,  993 
Brau  semagnesia,  1007 
Brausepulver,  1328,  1329 
Brausewasser,  46 
Brayera,  570 
anthelmintica,  570 
Brayerin,  571 
Brazil-nuts,  1126 
Brazilian  augustura,  211 
arrowroot,  205 
elemi,  596 
isinglass,  860 
rhatany,  913 
sarsaparilla,  1423 
Breadcrumb,  1041 
Bread-fruit,  752 
nuts,  752 
root,  1321 
Brechnuss,  1084 
Brechnussextrakt,  688 
Brechwein,  1703 
Brechweinstein,  217 
Brechweinsteinpflaster,  219 
Brechweinstein  salbe,  1660 
Brechwurzel,  893 
Brechwurzelpastillen,  1653 
Brechwurzelwein,  1706 
Brechwurzessig,  15 
Brein,  Breiden,  596 
Breiumschlage,  423 
Bremen  blue,  565 
green,  565 
Brenncylinder,  1061 
Brennessel,  1676 
Brewer’s  yeast,  436 
Briangon  manna,  1019 
Brimstone,  1538 
Brindonia  indica,  766 
Brionia,  353 
Britannia  metal,  1511 
British  gum,  205 
Brodkrumen,  1041 
Brom,  350 
Bromsethyl,  141 
Bromal,  351,  353 
hydrate,  351 
Bromaloin,  164 
Bromacetanilid,  9 
Bromammonium,  180 
Brombarium,  324 
Brombeeren,  1386,  1388 
Brombeerrinden-Extrakt,  700 
Brombeerrindensirup,  1568 
Bromcalcium,  368 
Brome,  350 

Bromide  of  iodine,  889 
Bromine,  350 
blocks,  352 
Brominium,  350 
Bromkalium,  1282 
Bromlithium,  990 
Bromnatrium,  1460 
Bromoform,  351,  353 
Bromol,  352 
Bromum,  350 

Bromure  d’ ammonium,  180 
de  baryum,  324 
de  calcium,  368 
d’ethyle,  141 
d’hyoscine,  851 
d’hyoscyamine,  852 
d’iode,  889 
de  lithium,  990 
de  nickel,  1080 
de  potassium,  1282 
de  sodium,  1460 
de  strontium,  1519 
de  zinc,  1721 
ferreux,  717 

Bromuretum  kalicum,  1282 


Bromuretum — 
lithicum,  990 
potassicum,  1282 
sodicum,  1460 
zincicum,  1721 
Bromuro  de  alcanfor,  391 
di  ammonio,  180 
Bromwasserstofhether,  141 
Bromwasserstoffsaure,  57 
Bronze,  565,  1511 
powder,  1511 
Brooklime,  1695 
Broom,  1431 
pine,  1584 
tops,  1413 

Brosimum  Alicastrum,  752 
Galactodendron,  752 
Broth  for  invalids,  656 
Brown  sago,  205 
Brucea  antidysenterica,  1085 
Brucine,  1085 
Bruising,  1324 
Brunella  vulgaris,  1434 
Brunnenkresse,  513 
Brunswick  green,  565 
Brustbeeren,  905 
Brustpulver,  1330 
Brustthee,  169 
Bryoidin,  596 
Bryone  blanche,  353 
Bryonia  spec.,  353,  354 
Bryonin,  Bryoretin,  353 
Bryony,  353 
Buccoblatter,  354 
Buccoextrakt,  654 
Bucharian  musk,  1059 
Buchelol,  1126 
Buchu,  354 
Buchuaufguss,  868 
Buchu -leaves,  354 
Buchutinktur,  1610 
Buckbean,  1035 
Buckthorn,  1374 
Buckublatter,  354 
Buck-yam,  587 
Buda  subra,  1419 
Buena  magnifolia,  491 
Bugle,  1589 
Bugleweed,  1589 
Bugloss,  350 
Bugrane,  787 
Buja,  911 

Bulbe  de  colchique,  516 
de  saffron  batard,  516 
Bulbus  allii,  159 
colchici,  516 
scillse,  1429 
Bully  tree,  802 
Bum-wood,  1382 
Burdock,  928 

Burgunder  Pech,  Harz,  1252 
Pechpflaster,  604 
Burgundy  pitch,  1252 
wine,  1699 
Burmarigold,  339 
Burnet  saxifrage,  934 
Burnett’s  disinfecting  liquid,  987 
Burning  bush,  629 
Bursa  pastoris,  513 
Bursera  elemifera,  596 
Bussena,  910 
Busserole,  1678 
Butea  frondosa,  911,  923 
gum,  911 
Butter,  916 

of  antimony,  liquid,  949 
of  cacao,  1161 
of  cocoanut,  1120 
paraffin,  1208 
vegetable,  932 
Butter-and-eggs,  938 


Buttercups,  1364 
Butterfly-weed,  298 
Butternussrinden-Extrakt,  682 
Butternut-bark,  904 
Butters,  1092 

Button  snakeroot,  623,  936 
Buttonbush,  430 
Buttonwood,  430 
Butua,  1196,  1198 
Butylchloral  hydrate,  460 
Butyrin,  1094 

Butyrospermum  Parkii,  1162 
Butyrum  antimonii,  949 
cacao,  1161 
nucistse,  1138 
stibii,  949 
Buxine,  1077 

Buxus  sempervirens,  1679 

CAAPEBA,  1025 

Caballine  aloes,  163 
Gabardine  musk,  1059 
Cabbage-rose  petals,  1385 
Cabbage-tree  bark,  208 
Cacao,  1595 
butter,  1161 
medicated,  435 
Cachets  de  pain,  1326 
Cachalot,  1134 
Cachou  de  Pegu,  425 
Cactier,  356 
Cactus,  spec.,  356,  357 
Cacumina  sabinse,  1391 
scoparii,  1431 
Cadmia,  359,  1733 
fornacum,  1726 
Cadmii  iodidum,  357 
sulphas,  358 
Cadmium,  359 
bromide,  358 
iodatum,  357 
iodide,  357 

oxid,  schwefelsaures,  358 
sulphate,  358 
sulphide,  24 
sulphuricum,  358 
Cserulein,  1027 
Csesalpinia  Bonducella,  1154 
echinata,  474 
Cafard,  399 
Cafe,  359 
du  Soudan,  362 
Caffea,  359 
Caffeia,  Cafleina,  361 
Caffeidine,  362 
Cafleina  citras,  366 
citrata  effervescens,  366 
Caffeine,  361,  801,  862 
citrate,  citrated,  362,  366 
effervescent,  366 
triiodide,  362 
valerianate,  362,  365 
Cahinca,  366 
Cahinca-root,  366 
Cahincin,  Cahincetin,  367 
Caille-lait,  763 
Cainana,  Caninana,  367 
Cainca,  366 
Caincawurzel,  366 
Cajaputol,  1114 
Cajeputene,  Cajeputol,  1115 
Cajeputgeist,  1502 
Cajuputol,  625 
Cake  alum,  175 
gamboge,  385 
meal,  945 
saffron,  554 
Calabar  bean,  1220 
Calabarine,  1222 
Calaboza,  1200 
Calabrian  liquorice,  674 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


Caladium  esculentum,  294 
Calamina  prseparata,  1733 
Calamine,  1733 
Calamo  aromatico,  367 
Calamus,  367 
Draco,  1366 
Calancapatle,  795 
Calcaria,  379 

carbonica  prsecipitata,  370 
chlorata,  381 
hydrica,  380 
hypophosphorosa,  372 
muriatica,  371 
phosphorica,  374 
soluta,  952 
sulfurata,  384 
sulfurica  usta,  376 
usta,  379 
Calcaroni,  1538 
Calcii  bromidum,  368 

carbonas  prcecipitatus,  370 
chloridum,  371 
hydras,  380 
hypochloris,  381 
hypophosphis,  372 
iodas,  373 
iodidum,  374 
oxysulphuretum,  384 
oxidurn,  379 

phosphas  prsecipitatus,  374 
sulphas,  376 
exsiccatus,  375 
sulphis,  376 
sulphidum,  384 

Calcis  carbonas  prsecipitatus, 
370 

Calcium  betanaphtolalphamono- 
sulphonate,  1074 
bromatum,  368 
bromide,  368 
carbonate,  370 

carbonicum  prsecipitatum,  370 
chloratum,  371 
chloride,  371 

hydrate,  hydroxide,  380,  952 
hydrosulphide,  384 
hypochlorite,  381 
hypophosphite,  372 
hypophosphorosum,  372 
iodate,  373 
iodatum,  374 
iodide,  374 

precipitated  carbonate,  370 
phosphate,  374 
phosphoricum,  374 
salicylate,  90,  96 
salts,  380 

sulfuricum  ustum,  375 
sulphate,  dried,  375 
sulphide,  384 
sulphite,  376 
sulphocarbolate,  1486 
Calciumphospho-lactatsirup,  1557 
Calculi  cancrorum,  553 
Calendula  officinalis,  377,  555 
Calendulatinktur,  1610 
Calendulin,  377 
Calico-bush,  907 
California  nutmeg,  1066 
oak  balls,  765 
spikenard,  275 
wine,  1699 

J Calisaya  bark,  479,  486 
Calisayarinde,  479 
Cal  la  sethiopica,  294 
Callicocca  Ipecacuanha,  893 
Callitriche  heterophylla,  378 
verna,  377 

Callitris  quadrivalvis,  1024 
Calomel,  825,  846 
a la  vapeur,  826 


1803 


Calomelas,  825 

Calophyllum  inophyllum,  1587 
Tacamahaca,  1587 
Calotropis  gigantea,  299 
Hamiltonii,  299 
procera,  299 
Calumba,  378 
Calx,  379 
chlorata,  381 
chlorinata,  381 
sulphurata,  384 
usta,  379 
viva,  379 

Calycanthine,  1012 
Calycanthus  spec.,  1012 
Cambodia,  Cambogia,  385 
Camedrios,  1589 
Camelina  sativa,  1154 
Camellia  drupifera,  1594 
japonica,  1593 
oleifera,  1594 
Thea,  1592 
theifera,  1592 
Camellin,  1593 
Camgamba,  754 
Camomilla  romana,  215 
Camomille  commune,  1026 
de  Perse,  1334 
romaine,  215 
Campecheholz,  804 
Extrakt,  678 
Camphol,  1403 
Camphor,  386 
artificial,  1157 
bromated,  391 
carbolized,  390 
ice,  433 
ledum,  907 
liniment,  940 
monobromated,  391 
oil,  388 
parsley,  1212 
phenol,  390 
salicylated,  389 
turpentine,  1187 
water,  255 
Camphora,  386 
carbolisata,  388 
monobromata,  391 
officinarum,  386 
phenolata,  388 
salicylata,  389 
Camphorated  chloral,  454 
oil,  940 
phenol,  388 
Camphors,  1091 
Camphre,  386 
monobrome,  391 
phenole,  388 
salicyle,  389 
Cana  fistula,  418 
Canada  balsam,  1584 
Pech-Pflaster,  609 
pitch,  1253 
snakeroot,  297 
turpentine,  1587 
Canadian  hemp,  233 
moonseed,  1032 
Canadische  Gilbwurzel,  849 
Hanfwurzel,  233 
Canadischer-Kornel,  544 
Thee,  767 

j Canadisches  Mondkorn-Extrakt, 
687 

Terpentin,  1584 
Canama,  392 
Canarium  album,  596 
commune,  596 
Canary-seed,  1213 
Cancer-root,  614 
weed,  1317 


1804 


Cancerillo,  299 
Canchalagua,  1391 
Candleberry,  1064 
Canela  blanca,  392 
Canella,  392,  498 
alba,  392,  1715 
bark,  392 
del  Ceylon,  498 
Winterana,  392 
Canelle,  498 
blanche,  392 
de  Ceylon,  498 
de  Chine,  498 
de  Magellan,  1714 
Canellin,  393 
Cane-sugar,  1394 
Canfora,  386 
monobromata,  391 
Canna,  204 
edulis,  204 
starch,  204 

Cannabene,  Cannabinine,  394 
hydride,  394 
Cannabine  tannate,  395 
Cannabinon,  396 
Cannabis  americana,  393 
indica,  393 
sativa,  393 
Cannastarke,  204 
Canoe  birch,  338 
Cantarella,  Cantaridas,  396 
Cantharidal  collodion,  521 
Canthariden,  396 
Essig,  15 

extract-Cerat,  434 
Cantharides,  396 
Cantharidin,  398 
Cantharis,  396 
atrata,  397 
cinerea,  397 
marginata,  397 
Nuttalli,  397 
vesicatoria,  397 
vittata,  397 
Cantuesa,  933 
Caoutchouc,  593 
Caoutchoucin,  594 
Capaloe,  161 
Cape  aloes,  161,  163 
gum,  7 

Capelvenere,  127 
Caper,  403 
spurge,  568 
Capillaire,  127 
de  Montpellier,  127 
du  Canada,  127 
Capita  papaveris,  1191 
Capparis  species,  403 
spinosa,  403 
Capsaicin,  404 
Capsella  Bursa  pastoris,  513 
Capsicin,  Capsicol,  404 
Capsicum,  403 
annuu  m,  404 
cerasiforme,  404 
chlorocladum,  404 
cordiforme,  404 
fastigiatum,  403 
fruit,  403 
frutescens,  404 
grossum,  404 
longum,  404 
Capsicumpflaster,  602 
Capsique,  403 
Capsulae  papaveris,  1191 
Capsules,  folding,  dcvorative, 
Capucine,  514 
Caput  mortuum,  735 
Caracas  kino,  912 
sarsaparilla,  1424 
Caragahen,  471 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


Caramel,  1396 
Caranna,  1587 
Carapa  guianensis,  317 
Touloucouna,  317 
Caraway,  415 
fruit,  415 
water,  255 
Carbamid,  1673 
Carbasus  carbolata,  40 
Carbo  animalis,  405 
purificatus,  405 
carnis,  406 
e ligno,  407 
ligni,  407 
ossium,  405 
prseparatus,  407 
pulveratus,  407 
vegetabilis,  407 
Carbolsaure,  37 
Carbolwasser,  39 
Carbon,  408 
bichloride,  411 
bisulphide,  409 
de  hueso,  405 
dioxide,  45,  408,  779 
disulphide,  409 
monoxide,  408 
tetrachloride,  411,  1037 
trichloride,  441 
Carbonas  ammonicus,  182 
baryticus,  324 
calcicus  prgecipitatus,  370 
ferrosus  saccharatus,  717 
kalicus,  1287 
lithicus,  991 
magnesicus,  1006 
plumbicus,  1262 
potassicus,  1287 
sodicus,  1462 
zincicus,  1721 

Carbonate  d’ammoniaque,  182 
de  baryte,  324 
de  chaux  precipite,  370 
de  lithine,  991 
de  magnesie,  1006 
de  plomb,  1262 
de  potasse,  1287,  1288 
de  soude,  1462 
sec,  1464 
de  zinc,  1721 
ferrous  saccharated,  717 
lithique,  991 
niccolique,  1080 
Carbonato  de  cal,  370 
di  ammonio,  182 
di  calcio  precipitato,  370 
Carbone  di  legno,  407 
vegetal,  407 

Carbonei  bisulphidum,  409 
tetrachloridum,  411 
Carboneum,  408 
chloratum,  411 
iodatum,  877 
sulphuratum,  409 
Carbonic  anhydride,  45 
Carbonium,  408 
Cardamine  amara,  513 
hirsuta,  513 
pratensis,  513 
Cardamom,  412 
Cardamomen,  412 
Cardamomo  menor,  412 
Cardamomum,  412 
malabaricum,  412 
minus,  412 
768  Cardiaire,  933 

Cardinal-plant,  996 
Cardo  benedetto  santo,  413 
Cardol,  207 

Carduus  benedictus,  413 
marianus,  929 


Carex  arenaria,  202,  1425 
Caricae,  751 
Carica  Papaya,  1204 
Carlina  acaulis,  876 
Carline  thistle,  876 
Carlsbad  spring,  266,  268,  269 
Carmine,  512 
Carnallite,  1291 
Caroba,  901,  1095 
Carobin,  901 
Carolina  allspice,  1012 
ipecac,  632 
pink,  1492 
Carota,  414 
Carotin,  414 
Caroube,  Carouge,  419 
Carpopogon  pruriens,  1063 
Carrageen,  Carragaheen,  471 
Carrot,  414 
Carta  nitrata,  443 
senapata,  444 
Cartamo,  415 
Carthame,  415 
Carthamin,  415 
Carthamus,  415 
tinctorius,  415,  555 
Carum,  415 
Ajowan,  560 

Carum,  Carui  (Carvi),  415,  1116 
Carvacrol,  859,  1116 
Carvene,  1116 
Carvi,  415 
Carvol,  1108,  1116 
Carya  olivseformis,  905 
Caryophylli,  416 
Caryophyllin,  417 
Caryophyllum,  416 
Caryophyllus  aromaticus,  416 
Casca  de  assacou,  819 
Cascara  amarga,  1339 
sagrada,  1375 
extrakt,  697 
Cascarilla,  417 
Cascai'illa-bark,  417 
Cascarilleros,  481 
Cascarillin,  418 
Caschunuss,  207 
Casein,  916 
Cashew  gum,  1643 
nut,  207 
oriental,  207 
Cassava,  205 
bread,  205 
meal,  205 
Casse  cuite,  419 
diable,  857 
en  batons,  418 
monde,  419 
officinale,  418 
Cassena,  862 
Cassia,  3 
Absus,  1 
acutifolia,  1438 
angustifolia,  1438 
auriculata,  3 
bacillaris,  419 
bark,  498 
brasiliana,  419 
brevipes,  1440 
buds,  501 

caryophyllata,  501 
cinnamomea,  498 
cinnamon,  499 
elongata,  1439 
Fistula,  418 
grandis,  418 
lanceolata,  1438, 1439 
lenitiva,  1438 
lignea,  498,  500 
marilandica,  1440 
medica,  medicinalis,  1439 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


1805 


Cassia — 
mollis,  419 
mosckata,  419 
obovata,  1439 
obtusa,  obtusata,  1439 
occidentalis,  361 
orientalis,  1438 
pubescens,  1440 
pulp,  419 
purging,  418 
senna,  1438 
Sckimperi,  1440 
Cassie,  8 
Cassienmus,  419 
Cassumunar-root.  1737 
Cassuvium  pomiferum,  207 
Cast  iron,  744 
Castanea  spec.,  420 
Castaiio,  420 
de  Indias,  813 
Castilloa  elastica,  593 
Markhamiana,  593 
Castor,  421 
americanus,  421 
canadensis,  421 
Fiber,  421 
Castoreum,  421 
americanum,  421 
anglicum,  421 
canadense,  421 
europseum,  421 
germanicum,  421 
moscoviticum,  421 
rossicum,  421 
sibiricum,  421 
Castorin,  422 
Cat  thyme,  1588 
Cata-cambu,  426 
Cataire,  424 

Catalpa  bignonioides,  422 
speciosa,  422 

Cataplasma  ad  decubitum,  1264 
carbonis,  423,  1041 
communis,  424 
conii,  423 
emolliens,  424 
fermenti,  423 
lini,  424 
rubefaciens,  424 
sinapis,  424 
sodfe  chlorinate,  424 
Cataplasmata,  423 
Cataplasme  au  charbon,  423 
avec  la  cigue,  423 
avec  le  levure  de  bierre,  423 
chlorine,  424 
commun,  424 
de  farine  de  lin,  424 
de  moutarde,  424 
rubefiant,  424 
simple,  424 
Cataplasms,  423 
Catappa  Benzoine,  335 
Catapuce,  568 
Cataria,  424 
vulgaris,  424 

Catechin,  207,  317,  426,  427 
Catechol,  426,  1371 
monomethyl  ether,  798 
Catechu,  8,  425 
artificial,  427 
nigrum,  425 
pallidum,  427 

Catechu- Aufguss  mit  Zimmt,  869 
Catechured,  Catechuretin,  426 
Cathartin,  1441 
Cathartocarpus  bacillus,  419 
Fistula,  418 
moschatus,  418 
Cathartomannit,  1441 
Catmint,  424 


Catnep,  424 
Caulophyllin,  428 
Caulophyllum  thalictroides,  428 
Caustic,  mitigated,  280 
soda,  1448 
toughened,  281 

Causticum  commune  mitius,  1272 
cum  chlorureto-zincico,  1723 
cum  potassa  et  calce,  1272 
iodi,  970 

Caustique  de  Filhos,  1272 
de  Vienne,  1272 
mitigated,  280 
Cayenne  pepper,  403 
Ceanothus  americanus,  429 
azureus,  coeruleus,  429 
ovalis,  429 
Ceara  rliatany,  93 
rubber,  593 
! Cebadilla,  1390 
! Cebada  perla,  817 
J Cebolla  albarrana,  1429 
Cedrat,  937 

j Cedre  de  Virginie,  1392 
Cedrela  odorata,  317 
Cedren  camphor,  1392 
! Cedrin,  1392 
Cedriret,  18,  1255  V 
Cedronella  Mexicana,  1031 
pallida,  1031 
Cedrus  libanotica,  1019 
Celadine,  445 
Celaster,  Celastre,  429 
j Celastrus  scandens,  429 
Celery,  1212 
Celery-seed,  1212 
Celidonia  mayor,  445 
Celine,  1031 
Cement,  594 
' Centaura  menor,  1391 
Centaurea  benedicta,  413 
Calcitrapa,  414 
Cyanus,  414 
Centeno,  202 
i Centifolienrose,  1385 
] Centrolobium  spec.,  474 
! Century-plant,  145 
i Cephaelis  emetica,  893 
Ipecacuanha,  893 
Cephalanthus  occidentalis,  430 
I Cera  alba,  430 

bianca,  blanca,  430 
citrina,  430 
flava,  430 
gialla,  virgine,  430 
Ceramium  Helminthochorton,  473 
Cerasus  lauro-cerasus,  930 
serotina,  1319 
virginiana,  1319 
Cerat  a la  rose,  435 
de  blanc  de  baleine,  435 
d’extrait  de  cantharides,  434 
de  Goulard,  435 
de  resine  anglais,  436 
de  sabine,  436 
de  saturne,  435 
simple,  433 
j Cerata,  432 

alcanforada,  433 
j Cerate,  432,  433 

carbonate  of  zinc,  1673 
blistering,  434 
camphor,  433 
compound,  433 
cantharides,  434 
compound  resin,  436 
de  Galien,  1661 
extract  of  cantharides,  434 
Goulard’s,  435 
jaune,  1661 
laudanisee,  1661 


Cerate — 

lead  subacetate,  435 
resin,  436 

compound,  436 
rose,  435 
savine,  436 
simple,  433 
soap,  608 
spermaceti,  435 
Cerates,  432 
Cerato  de  Bell,  435 
Ceratonia  siliqua,  419 
Cerats,  432 
Ceratum,  433 
adipis,  433 
camphorge,  433 
compositum,  433 
cantharidis,  434 
cetacei,  435 

cum  subacetate  plumbico,  435 
extracti  cantharidis,  434 
flavum,  1661 
Galeni,  1661 
labiale  album,  435 
laudanisatum,  1661 
minii  rubrum,  609 
myristicse,  1138 
plurnbi  subacetatis,  435 
resinse,  436 

compositum,  436 
rosatum,  435 
sabinse,  436 
saponis,  608 
simplex,  433 
zinci  carbonatis,  1673 
Cerbera  spec.,  1096 
Cereoles,  432 

Ceresin,  Ceresinum,  431,  1192 
Cereus  spec.,  356 
Cerevisise  fermentum,  436 
Cerezo,  1319 
Cerii  bromidum,  438 
carbonas,  438 
nitras,  439 
oxalas,  438 
Cerin,  431,  1341 
Cerisier  de  Virginie,  1319 
Cerite,  438 
Cerium,  438 
oxalate,  438 
oxalicum,  438 
Cerolein,  431 
Ceroxalat,  438 
Ceroxydul,  oxalsaures,  438 
Ceruse,  1262 
Cerussa,  1262 
I Cervantite,  221 
Cetaceum,  439 
prseparatum,  440 
saccharatum,  440 
Cetina,  Cetine,  439 
Cetraria,  440 
Cetraria  Islandica,  440 
Cetrarin,  441 
Cevadilla,  1390 
Cevadine,  Cevine,  1668 
Ceylon  cardamom,  413 
cinnamon,  498,  500 
moss,  473 
white  yam,  587 
Chgerophyllum  spec.,  531 
Chagual  gum,  7 
Chalk,  552 
French,  986 
prepared,  552 
Chamsedrys,  1589 
Chamselirin,  Ckameliretin,  442 
Chamselirium  carolinianum,  442 
luteum,  442 

Chameleon  mineral,  1311 
Chamomile,  dog,  546 


1806 


Chamomile — 
flowers,  215 
single,  215 

Chamomilla  nobilis,  215 
officinalis,  1026 
Chamomille  puante,  546 
Champagne  wines,  1699 
Chanvre  americain,  393 
aquatique,  339 
batard,  934 

de  la  Nouvelle-Zelande,  1216 
du  Canada,  233 
indien,  393 
Charas,  394 
Charbon,  animal,  405 
purifle,  405 
vegetal,  487 
Charcoal,  407 
animal,  405 
poultice,  423 
Cbardon  benit,  413 
dore,  876 
etoile,  414 
Marie,  929 
Roland,  624 
Charlock,  1446 
Charpie,  944 

Cbarta  antarthritica,  442 
antirbeumatica,  442 
cantharidis,  443 
cerata,  443 
epispastica,  443 
nitrata,  443 
potassii  nitratis,  443 
resinosa,  442 
sinapis,  sinapisata,  443 
vesicatoria,  443 
Chartse,  442 

Cbataigne  du  Bresil,  1126 
Chataignier,  420 
d’Inde,  813 
Chataire,  424 
Cbaulmoogra  odorata,  802 
Chaulmugra,  802 
Chaux,  379 
eteinte,  380 
hydratee,  380 
vive,  379 

Chavanesia  esculenta,  593 
Cbavica  betle,  1249 
officinarum,  1248 
Roxburghii,  1248 
Siribora,  1249 
Checkerberry,  767,  1045 
Chelerythrine,  445 
Chelidoine,  445 
Chelidonine,  445 
Chelidonium,  445 
Glaucium,  445 
majus,  445 
Chelidoxantbin,  445 
Cbelone  glabra,  446 
Cheltenham  spring,  266,  268 
Chemical  food,  1561 
Chene,  203 
Chenevis,  394 
Chenopode  a grappes,  447 
Chenopodium,  445 
album,  447 
ambrosioides,  445 
anthelminticum,  445 
Bonus-Henricus,  447 
Botrys,  447 
vulvaria,  447 
Chermes,  512 
Cherry  birch,  338 
gum,  1643 
laurel-leaves,  930 
Chestnut,  420 
Chetone,  11 
Chian  turpentine,  1586 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


Chia-seed,  1406 
Chicle,  802 

Chicoree  sauvage,  1581 
Chicory,  1581 
Chiendent,  1647 
Chile,  403 
Chilisalpeter,  1474 
Chillies,  404 
Chimaphila,  447 
corymbosa,  447 
macula ta,  umbellata,  447 
Chimaphilin,  448 
China,  479 
cinerea,  479 
de  Mexico,  1424 
fusca,  grisea,  479 
grass-cloth,  1676 
nova,  491 
pallida,  regia,  479 
root,  1424 
rose,  168 
rossa,  480 
rubra,  480 
China-Absud,  577 
Aufgusss,  869 
eisenwein,  1611 
Extrakt,  660 
fliissiges,  661 
weingeistiges,  660 
Chinamin,  489 
Chinarinde,  479 
braune,  479 
grau,  rothe,  479,  480 
Chinasaure,  490 
Chinatinktur,  1614 

zusammengesetzte,  1615 
Chinawurzel,  1424 
Chinese  aconite,  119 
anise,  863 
berries,  1490, 
blistering-flies,  397 
camphor,  387 
cardamoms,  413 
cinnamon,  498 
galls,  765 
gelatin,  473 
isinglass,  860 
musk,  1059 
nutgalls,  766 
persimmon,  588 
rhubarb,  1377 
sumach,  146 
tallow,  1515 
turmeric,  569 
Chinesischer  Zimmt,  498 
Chinidin,  494 
schwefelsaures,  1343 
Chinidinum  sulfuricum,  1343 
Chinin,  1344 
baldriansaures,  1361 
bisulfat,  1345 
hydrobromat,  1346 
hydrochlorat,  1348 
salzsaures,  1348 
schwefelsaures,  1349 
sulfat,  1345, 1349 
wein,  1707 
Chininum,  1344 
bisulphuricum,  1345 
ferro-citricum,  726 
hydrobromatum,  1346 
hydrobromicum,  1346 
hydrochloricum,  1348 
sulfuricum,  1349 
tannicum,  1363 
valerianicum,  1361 
Chinioidinum,  Chinoidin,  448,  489 
salts,  449 

Chinoidine  boras,  449 
citras,  449 
hydrochloras,  449 


Chinoidine — 
tannas,  449 
Chinoidinum,  448 
Chinquapin,  420 
Chinolina,  Chinoline,  450 
Chinoline  salicylate,  450 
tartrate,  450 

Chiococca  anguifuga,  367 
densi  folia,  367 
racemosa,  366 

Chionanthus  virginica,  757 
Chirata,  451 

Chiratin,  Chiratogenin,  452 
Chiretta,  Cliirette,  451 
Chiretta-Extrakt,  659 
Chiretta-Thee,  869 
Chirettatinktur,  1613 
Chironia  angularis,  1391 
Chittem-bark,  1375 
Chives,  160 
Chloral,  452 
butylicum,  459 
camphorated,  454 
formamide,  461 
glycerites,  454 
hydras,  452 
hydrate,  452,  454 
and  camphor,  454 
and  phenol,  454 
hydrocyanate,  455 
insoluble,  453 
Chloralamide,  461 
Chloral-ammonium,  455 
Chloralcyanhydrin,  455 
Chloralhydratsirup,  1558 
Chloralimide,  461 
Chloralose,  455 
Chloralphenol,  455 
Chloralum,  177 

formamidatum,  461 
hydra  turn,  452 
Chloralurethane,  455 
ethylated,  455 

Chloramidure  de  mercure,  846 
Chlorammonium,  185 
Chloramyl,  464 
Chloranil,  89 
Chlorarseniklosung,  947 
Chloras  kalicus,  1290 
potassicus,  1290 
sodicus,  1465 
Chlorate  de  potasse,  1290 
de  soude,  1465 
Chloraurate  de  sodium,  313 
Chlorbarium,  324 
Chlorbutylaldehyde,  460 
Chlorcalcium,  371 
Chlore  liquide,  256 
Chlorethane,  139 
Chlorethylidene,  464 
Chlorethyline,  139 
Chloretum  hydrargyricum,  820 
hydrargyrosum,  825 
Chlorhydrate  d’ammoniaque,  185 
d’apomorphine,  234 
de  cocaine,  504 
de  morphine,  1057 
de  quinine,  1348 
Chloridum  calcicum,  371 
ferricum,  719 
ferrosum,  721 
stibicum,  949 
Chlorine,  256 
poultice,  424 
water,  256 
Chi  oris  calcicus,  381 
Chlorkalilosung,  984 
Chlorkalk,  381,  954 
Chlorkohlenstoff,  411 
Chlormethyl,  1036 
Chlormethylchloriir,  1036 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


1807 


Chlornatrium,  1466 
Chlornatronlosung,  983 
Chlornatron-Umschlag,  424 
Chlorocarbon,  411 
Chloroeodid,  235 
Chlorodine,  471 
Chloroform,  4(51 
absolute,  4(53 
anodyne,  1614 
crude,  462 
emulsion,  612 
liniment,  940 
pure,  463 

Chloroformspiritus,  1502 
Chloroformwasser,  258 
Chloroformium,  461 
Cbloroformum  purificatum,  461 
Cblorogenine,  166 
Cblorometbyl,  1036 
Cbloropercha.  967 
Chlorphenol,  40,  45 
Chloropicrin,  87 
Cblorum  solutum,  256 
Cblorure  d’ammouium,  185 
d’antimoine,  liquide,  949 
de  baryum,  324 
de  calcium,  371 
de  chaux,  381 
liquide,  954 
d’iode,  889 

de  mercure  et  d’ammoniaque, 
969 

de  methyle  monochlore,  1036 
de  nickel,  1080 
d’or  et  de  sodium,  313 
de  potasse,  983 
de  potassium,  1291 
de  sodium,  1466 
de  soude  liquide,  983 
ferrique,  719 
liquide,  957 
mercurique,  820 
zinc,  1722 
liquide,  987 

Cbloruretum  ammonicum,  185 
aurico-sodicum,  313 
calcis,  381 
ferricum,  719 
hydrargyricum,  820 
hydrargyrosum,  825 
potassicum,  1291 
sodicum,  1466 
stibicum,  949 
zincicum,  1722 
Chlorwasser,  256 
Chlorwasserstoffsaure,  60 
Chlorzink,  1722 
fliissiges,  987 
Chochos,  998 
Chocolat  de  sante,  1596 
Chocolata  cum  cetraria,  1597 
cum  ferro,  1596 
cum  salep,  1597 
cum  vanilla,  1596 
simplicior,  1596 
Chocolate,  1596 
drops,  1650 
tree,  1595 
Chocolates,  1597 
Chokeberry,  149 
Chokecherry,  1320 
Cholesterin,  618,  714 
Cholina,  1645 
Choline,  760,  1384 
Chondodendron  tomentosum,  1196 
Chondrin,  768 
Chondrus,  471 
crispus,  471 
mamillosus,  471 
Christdorn,  861 
Christmas  rose,  808 


Christophswurz,  122 
Chrome  green,  1280 
iron  ore,  1280 
orange,  1280 
red,  1280 
yellow,  1279 
Chi’omic  anhydride,  47 
Chromium  trioxide,  47 
Chromsiiure,  47 
Chrysaniline,  212 
Chrysanthemum  Chamomilla, 
1026 

Parthenium,  1198 
roseum,  1334 
spec.,  1334 
Tanacetum,  1578 
Clirysarobin,  473 
Chrysarobinsalbe,  1662 
Chrysarobinum,  473 
Chrysene.  1255 
Chrysitis,  1265 
('hrysophan,  1378 
Chrysophansaure,  1378 
Chrysophyllum  Cainito,  1047 
glyciphlceum,  1046 
Chrysoretin,  1441 
Church  Hill  alum-water,  268 
Churchill’s  iodine  caustic,  970 
Churrus,  394 
Chylariose,  1396 
Cibotium  spec.,  759 
Cichorie,  1581 
Cichorium  Endivia,  1581 
Intybus,  1581 
Cicuta  maculata,  477,  530 
maggiora,  530 
mayor,  530 
virosa,  477,  560 
virulenta,  477 
Cicutaria  aquatica,  477 
Cicutine,  Cicutoxin,  477 
Cider  vinegar,  12,  13 
Cierge  a grandes  fleurs,  356 
Cigar-plant,  1003 
Cigarettes  antiasthmatiques,  444 
medicated,  444 
Cigue  officinale,  530 
petite,  530 
vireuse,  477 
Cilantro,  542 
Cimicifuga,  478 
racemosa,  478 
Serpentaria,  478 
Cimicifuga-Extrakt,  660 
fliissiges,  660 
Cimicifugatinktur,  1614 
Cimicifugin,  479 
Cinsebene,  1413 
Cinchamidine,  489 
Cinchene,  496 
Cinchocerotin,  491 
Cincholine,  489 
Cinchona,  479 
Cinchona  australis,  480 
bark,  479 
spurious,  487 

Calisaya,  479,  481,  484,  485,  487 
caroliniana,  488 
cordifolia,  480,  481 
febrifuge,  490 
flava,  479 
glandulifera,  481 
Howardiana,  481 
lancifolia,  481,  486,  487,  493 
Ledgeriana,  482 
micrantha,  481,  487 
nitida,  481 

officinalis,  479,  481,  484,  485, 
487,  493 
ovata,  489 
Pahudiana,  481 


Cinchona — 
pallida,  479 
Pavoniana,  481 
pedunculata,  487 
pitayensis,  481 
pubescens,  481 
purpurea,  481 
rubra,  480,  486 

scrobiculata,  481,  484,  486,  487 
succirubra,  479,  481, 484,  487,  493 
tucuyensis,  480,  493 
Weddelliana,  481 
Cinchonamine,  489 
Cinchona-red,  491 
Cinchonia,  496 
Cinchonise  sulphas,  497 
Cinchonicine,  488,  489 
Cinchonic  red,  491 
Cinchonidinse  sulphas,  493 
Cinchonidine,  488,  1352 
hydrobromide,  495 
salicylate,  495 
sulphate,  493 
Cinchonidin  Sulfat,  493 
Cinchonidinum  sulfuricum,  493 
Cinchonin,  schwefelsaures,  497 
Cinchonina,  496 
Cinchoninse  sulphas,  497 
Cinchonine,  488,  496,  1352 
acid  sulphate,  497 
herapathite,  879 
hydrochloride,  497,  1352 
iodosulphate,  879 
sulphate,  497 
Cinclioninum,  496 
sulfuricum,  497 
Cinchotenidine,  495 
Cinchotenine,  496 
Cinchotine,  488,  496 
Cinchovatine,  188,  489,  497 
Cinconina,  496 
Cineol,  625,  761,  931 
Cine  res  clavelati,  1288 
Cinis  antimonii,  222 
Cinnabar,  839 
Cinnabaris,  839 
Cinnabre,  839 
Cinnamein,  319 
Cinnamene,  1533 
Cinnamic  aldehyde,  1119 
Cinnamodendron  cortieosum,  393 
macranthum,  393 
Cinnamomum,  498 
acutum,  498 
aromaticum,  498 
Burmanni,  499 
Camphora,  386 
Cassia,  498 
chinense,  498 
Culiliwan,  501 
iners,  499 
nitidum,  499 
obtusifolium,  497 
saigonicum,  498 
Tamala,  499 
verum,  498 
zeylanicum,  498 
Cinnamon,  498 
bark,  498 
chips,  498 
wild,  392 

Cinnamyl-cocaine,  503 
eugenol,  1117 
guaiacol,  799 
Cinosbato,  1384 
Cinquefoil,  775 
Circium  mexicanum,  413 
Cire  blanche,  430 
jaune,  430 
Cissampeline,  1198 
Cissampelos  Abutua,  1196 


1808 


Cissampelos — 
microcarpa,  1196 
Pareira,  1196,  1198 
Cissus  hederacea,  193 
quinquefolia,  193 
Cistus  canadensis,  807 
creticus,  914 
cyprius,  914 
helianthemum,  807 
ladaniferus,  914 
Citras  ammonico-ferricus,  722 
bismuthicum,  339 
ferrico-quinicus,  726 
ferricus,  721 
liquidus,  962 
kalicus,  1295 
potassicns,  1295 
Citrate  d’ammoniaque,  949 
de  bismuth,  339 
ammoniacal,  339 
de  fer  ammoniacal,  722 
de  fer  et  d’ammoniaque,  722 
de  fer  et  de  quinine,  726 
de  fer  et  de  strychnine,  728 
de  fer  liquide,  962 
de  lithine,  992 
de  potasse,  1295 
liquide,  980 

de  sesquioxide  de  fer,  721 
ferrique,  721 
ammoniacal,  722 
Citrene,  Citrylene,  1128 
Citron,  937 
Citronenessenz,  1506 
Citronen  kraut,  1031 
Citronenol,  1128 
Citronensaft,  937 
Citronensaure,  50 
Citronensauresyrup,  1553 
Citronenschale,  937 
Citronenschalentinktur,  1627 
Citronensyrup,  1565 
Citro-phosphate  de  fer  et  de  soude, 
737 

Citro-pyrophosphate  de  fer  et  de 
soude,  739 
Citrosma,  348 
Citrullus  Colocynthis,  523 
vulgaris,  559 
Citrus  acida,  937 
acris,  937 
amara,  310 

Aurantium,  310,  312,  313,  1111 
Bergamia,  1113 
Bigaradia,  310 
dulcis,  312 
Limetta,  937 
Limonum,  937 
Lumia,  937 
medica,  937 
vulgaris,  310,  313,  1112 
Citysine,  915 
Civetta,  Civet,  1060 
Civette,  160,  1060 
Claret,  1708 
Clavalier,  1715 
Clavaria  clavus,  616 
Clavelli  cinnamomi,  501 
Claviceps  purpurea,  615 
Clavos  de  especia,  416 
Clavus  secalinus,  615 
Clearing  nuts,  1086 
Cleavers,  763 
Clematis  spec.,  501 
Clematite,  501 
Cloral  hidratado,  452 
Cloralio  idrato,  452 
Clorhidrato  de  amoniaco,  185 
di  apomorfina,  234 
Cloroformio,  461 
Cloruro  di  ammonio,  185 


GENERAL  INDEX. 

Cloruro — 
di  calcio,  371 
di  oro  e di  sodio,  313 
Clotbur,  spiny,  929 
Clous  aromatiques,  416 
matrices,  417 
Clove-bark,  501 
Clove-stalks,  417 
Cloves,  416 
Club  moss,  1001 
Clutia  Cascarilla,  416 
Eluteria,  416 
Clysma  tonicum,  613 
Clysmata,  613 
Clysteria,  613 
Clysters,  613 
Cnicin,  413 

Cnicus  benedictus,  413 
Coal,  anthracite,  408 
bituminous,  408 
fish,  1133 
naphtha,  332 
oil,  1209 
tar,  332 
dyes,  212 
creosote,  547 
Cobalt,  tin-white,  293 
Cobalt-glance,  Cobaltum,  293 
Cobre,  565 

Coca,  Coca-leaves,  502 
Cocablatter,  502 
Cocaextrakt,  662 
fliissiges,  662 

Cocainae  hydrochloras,  504 
Cocaine,  503,  505 
benzoate,  505 
discs,  927 

hydrochlorate,  504 
nitrate,  505 
phenylate,  505 

Cocainum  hydrochloricum,  503 
Cocamine,  503 
Coccionella,  511 
Cocco,  294 
Coccognin,  1040 
Coccoloba  floridana,  912 
parvifolia,  912 
uvifera,  912 

Cocculus  Chondodendron,  1196 
indicus,  1226 
palmatus,  378 
suberosus,  1226 
toxiferus,  566 
Coccus  Cacti,  511 
ilicis,  512 
lacca,  923 
maniparus,  1019 
Cochenille,  511 
Cochenilletinktur,  1616 
Cochin  turmeric,  569 
Cochineal,  511 
Cochlearia,  512 
Armoracia,  288 
officinalis,  512 
rueticana,  288 

Cochi! ospermum  Gossypium,  7 
Cocill’ana-bark,  899 
Cocklebur,  929 
Cockioach,  399 
j Cockspur-thorn,  1491 
Coclearia,  512 
| Cocoa,  1596 
| Cocoanut  butter,  1120 
] Cocos  aculeata,  1142 
butyracea,  1120 
nucifera,  1120 
! Cod,  common,  1132 
Codamine,  1172 
Codeina,  514,  1171 
Codeine,  514,  1171 
phosphate,  515 


Codeinum,  514 
phosphoricum,  515 
Ccerulein,  1027 
Coerulignone,  18 
Cceruleum  borussicum,  729 
Coffea  arabica,  liberica,  359 
Coffee,  359 
Coffeinum,  361 
Coffeol,  361 
Cognac,  1508 
Cohambrillo  amargo,  592 
Cohesion-figures,  1095 
Cohobation,  1090 
Cohombro,  558 
Coing,  536 
du  Bengale,  326 
Coke,  408 

Col  de  pescado,  860 
Cola  acuminata,  362 
de  mono,  759 
di  caballo,  615 
Cola-nut,  362 

Colchicine,  Colchicein,  518 
Colchicoresin,  518 
Colchicum,  516 
autumnale,  516 
corm,  root,  516 
seed,  516 
variegatum,  517 
Colcothar,  98,  735 
Cold  cream,  1660 
Colepyrrhin,  714 
Colic-root,  158,  936 
Colla  animalis,  767 
piscium,  860 
Collalia  esculenta,  473 
Colie,  767 
de  poisson,  860 
Collidine,  1575 
Collinsonia  canadensis,  520 
Collodio,  Collodion,  520 
Collodion  au  tannin,  523 
blistering,  521 
cantharidal,  521 
cotton,  1336 
croton  oil,  522 
flexible,  521 
iodized,  522 
iodoform,  522 
salicylated,  compound,  522 
salicylic,  89 
styptic,  523 
vesicant,  521 
Collodium,  520 
blasenziehendes,  521 
cantharidale,  521 
cantharidatum,  521 
cum  cantharide,  521 
elasticum,  521 
flexile,  521 
hsemostaticum,  523 
iodatum,  522 
iodoformatum,  522 
salicylatum  compositum,  522 
stypticum,  523 
tiglii,  522 
vesicans,  521 
Colloxylin,  520,  1336 
Collyre  de  pierre  divine,  562 
Colocasia  esculenta,  294 
antiquorum,  294 
Colocynth,  523 

Colocynthein,  Colocynthin,  524 
Colocynthin,  impure,  525 
Colocynthis,  523 
Colocynthitin,  524 
Cologne-water,  1507 
Colombo,  378 
de  Mariette,  773 
Colombowurzel,  773 
Colophane,  1364 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


1809 


Colophene,  1365 
Colophonia  mauritiana,  596 
Coloplionium,  1364 
Colophony,  1364 
Coloquinte,  Colloquintide,  523 
Coloquintenpillen,  1241 
Colorado  cough-root,  936 
Colorin  de  peces,  1251 
Colt’sfoot,  1656 
root,  1656 
Columbin,  379 
Columbite,  1511 
Columbo,  378 
American,  773 
Colutea  arborescens,  526 
Combustion,  1186 
Comar um  palustre,  775 
Gome’s  arsenical  powder,  24 
Comfrey-root,  1550 
Comino,  559 

Commiphora  Balsamodendron, 
1067 

Common  frankincense,  1599 
mallow,  168 
silkweed,  298 
vinegar,  13 
yam,  587 

Compass-plant,  1199 
Comptonia  asplenifolia,  526 
Concassi-bark,  167 
Concentrated  alum,  175 
Conch®,  553 
pr®parat®,  553 
Conchinin  bydriodate,  1344 
schwefelsaures,  1343 
Conchinine,  488 
Concbininum  sulfuricum,  1343 
Conchinsulfat,  1343 
Concombre,  558 
d’ane,  592 
purgatif,  592 
sauvage,  592 
Condensed  milk,  916 
Condurangin,  527 
Condurango,  526 

Extrakt,  fliissiges,  665 
Conessi-bark,  167 
Conessine,  167 
Confectio  amygdalae,  1326 
aromatica,  1327, 1328 
aurantii  corticis,  312 
eynosbati,  529 
Damocratis,  528 
opii,  528 
pi  peris,  529 
rosae,  529 
caninae,  529 
gallicae,  529 
scammonii,  529 
sennae,  529 
sulphuris,  530 
terebintbinae,  530 
Confection,  aromatic,  1327 
de  poivre,  529 
de  scammonee,  529 
of  almond,  1326 
of  cassia,  419 
of  hips,  529 
of  opium,  528 
of  orange-peel,  312 
of  pepper,  529 
of  rose,  529 
of  scammony,  529 
of  senna,  529 
of  sulphur,  530 
of  turpentine,  530 
Confectiones,  528 
Confections,  528 
Conglutin,  194 

Conhydrine,  Conydrine,  Conia, 
531 
114 


| Coniferin,  1684 
| Coniine,  Conine,  477,  532,  1230 
! Conium,  530 
fruit,  214,  530 
leaves,  530 
maculatum,  530 
Conopbolis  americana,  614 
Conquinamine,  489 
1 Conquinine  sulphate,  1343 
! Conserva  amygdalarum,  1326 
aurantii,  312 
cynorrbodi,  529 
rosarum,  529 
tamarindi,  1578 
Conservae,  529 

Conserve  de  cynorrliodon,  529 
d’ecorce  d’orange,  312 
de  rose  rouge,  529 
Conserves,  529 
I Consoude,  1513 
Constantia  wine,  1699 
Consumption  herbs,  934 
I Consumptive’s  weed,  623 
Contrayerba,  Contrayerva,  534 
Contre-poison  de  l’arsenic,  737 
Contusion,  1324 

Convallamarin , Convallamaretin , 
534 

Convallaria  majalis,  534 
spec.,  535 

Convallarin,  Convallaretin,  535 
Convolvulin,  Convolvulinol,  902, 
1367 

Convolvulus,  903 
Jalapa,  901 
nil,  903 

orizabensis,  903 
panduratus,  903 
Purga,  901 
Scammonia,  1428 
scoparius,  1148 
Conyza  squarrosa,  583,  876 
Copahu,  536 
Copaiba,  536 
solidified,  1020 
Copaibaol,  1120 
Copaifera  Langsdorffii,  536 
spec.,  536 
Copaiva,  536 
balsam,  536 

Copaivaharz,  Copaivasaure,  1365 
Pillenmasse,  1020 
Copalchi-bark,  304,  418 
Copalm,  946 
Copal  varnish,  540 
Copiapite,  965 
Copper,  565 
acetate,  560 
aluminated,  562 
ammoniated,  562,  564 
ammonio-sulphate,  562 
arsenite,  564 
nitrate,  561 
oxide,  562 
pyrites,  561 
spirit,  17 
subacetate,  561 
sulphate,  561 
verditer,  560 
wire,  565 
Copperas,  740 
Copper-colored  bark,  487 
Coptide,  Coptine,  541 
Coptis  anemonsefolia,  541 
Teeta,  541 
trifolia,  541 
Coque  du  Levant,  1226 
Coquelicot,  1380 
Coquelourde,  1322 
Coqueluchon,  117 
| Coqueret,  159 


Coquille,  1713 
Coquilles  d’huitres,  553 
Corail,  Coral,  553 
Coral -root,  541 
Corallium,  553 
rubrum,  553 

Corallorrbiza  multiflora,  541 
odontorrhiza.  541 
Corcborus  capsularis,  1602 
olitorius,  1602 
Cordial,  blackberry,  542 
Cordiale  rubi  fructus,  542 
Cordiceps  purpurea,  616 
Coriamyrtin,  543 
Coriander-fruit,  542 
Coriandrum,  542 
sativum,  542,  1121 
Coriaria  myrtifolia,  543 
Corigliano,  675 
Corind  on,  174 
granuleux  ferrifere,  174 
Corinthian  raisins,  1678 
Cork  oak,  1341 
Cormus  colchici,  516 
Corn,  ergot,  1718 
poppy,  1380 
rose,  1380 
silk,  1718 
snakeroot,  623 
starch,  201 
Corncobs,  1287 
Cornelian  cherry,  544 
Cornin,  544 
Corniolo,  544 
Cornouiller,  544 
Cornsmut,  1718 
Corn  us,  543 
circinata,  544 
florida,  543 
mascula,  544 
sericea,  544 
Coronilla,  583 
Corrosive  sublimate,  820 
Corsican  moss,  473 
Corteccia  aruncia  amara,  310 
Cortex  adstringens  brasiliensis, 
427 

angustur®,  210 
aurantii  amari,  310 
dulcis,  312 
aurantiorum,  310 
dulcium,  312 
beberu,  bibiru,  1077 
canell®,  392 
caryopliyllatus,  501 
cascarill®,  417 
castane®  equin®,  813 
chin®,  479 
calisay®,  479 
fuscus,  479 
regi®,  479 
ruber,  480 
cinch  on®,  479 
flavffi,  479 
pallid®,  479 
rubr®,  480 
cinnamomi,  498 
cassi®,  498 
chiuensis,  498 
saigonici,  498 
zeylanici,  498 
coccognidii,  1039 
c idurango,  526 
c spari®,  210 
elnteri®,  417 
euonymi,  629 
frangul®,  755 
fructus  aurantii,  310 
citri,  937 
granati,  793 
juglandis,  905 


1810 


Cortex — 
granati,  792,  793 
granatorum,  793 
hippocastani,  813 
laricis,  930 
limonis,  937 
malicorii,  793 
mezerei,  1039 
nectandrse,  1077 
pomorum  aurantii,  310 
quercus,  1340 
radicis  berberidis,  336 
gossypii,  789 
granati,  792, 
rhamni  frangulse,  755 
Purshiani,  1375 
sassafras,  1426 
thuris,  417 
thymelesc,  1039 
tbymiamatis,  1534 
ulmi,  1657 
interior,  1657 
Winteranus,  1714 
Corundum,  174 
Corvisartia  Helenium,  875 
Corydaline,  545 
Corydalis,  544 
fabacea,  545 
formosa,  tuberosa,  545 
Corylus  spec.,  545 
Cosmisches  Pulver,  24 
Cosmoline,  1193 
Cosso,  570 
Costmary,  1579 
Cotarnine,  1170 
Coto-bark,  1077 
Cotoin,  1077 
Coton,  790 
Cotonetin,  1077 
Cotton,  absorbent,  790 
benzoic,  791 
chlorinated,  791 
chloro-carbolated,  455 
gum,  927 
haemostatic,  791 
iodoform,  791 
lint,  944 
purified,  790 
salicylic,  89,  791 
wild,  298 
wool,  790 
Cottonier,  790 
Cottonroot-bark,  789 
Cotton-xyloidin,  1336 
Cotula,  546 

Cotyledon  umbilicus,  546 
Cotylet,  546 
Couch-grass,  1647 
Couleuvree,  358 
de  Virginie,  1442 
Couleuvrine,  775 
Coumarin,  763,  1030 
Coumarouna  odorata,  1030 
Couperose  blanche,  1729 
verte,  740 

Couronne  de  moine,  1580 
de  St.  Jean,  4 
Court  plaster,  603 
Cousso,  570 
Cowage,  1063 
Cowbane,  477 
Cowberry,  1679 
Cowhage,  1063 
Cow-parsnip,  812 
Cowslip,  351,  1317 
Cow-tree,  752 
Coxe’s  hive  syrup,  1571 
Crab  Orchard  salt,  1008 
Crabs’  eyes,  1,  553 
stones,  553 
Craie,  552 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


Craie — 
lavee,  552 
precipitee,  370 
preparee,  552 
Cran  de  Bretagne,  288 
Crane  willow,  430 
Cranesbill-root,  773 
Crataegus  Oxycantha,  337,  1491 
Crataeva  Marmelos,  326 
religiosa,  326 
Cratiri,  752 
Crawfish,  553 

Crayon  d’iodoforme,  1669  i 
noir,  408 
Cream,  916 
of  tartar,  1280 
fruit,  123 
Creasote-busli,  923 
Creasotum,  547 
Creatin,  Creatinin,  656 
Creme  de  soufre,  1538 
de  tartrate  soluble,  1316 
de  tartre,  1280 
Cremor  tartari,  1280 
solubilis,  1316 
Creolin,  40,  45,  550 
Creolinum,  550 
Creosol,  547 
Creosote,  Creosoto,  547 
Creosotum,  547 
Cresalol,  1403 
Crescione,  513 
Cresol,  40,  797 
salicylate,  1403 
Cress,  513, 514 
Cresson  alenois,  514 
de  fontaine,  513 
de  Para,  1334 
des  Indes,  514 
des  jardins,  514 
des  pres,  513 
Cresson  ee,  1695 
Creta,  552 
laevigata,  552 
praecipitata,  370 
praeparata,  552 
rubra,  349 
Crisarobina,  473 
Crisped  mint,  1034 
Crista!  line,  357 
Cristaux  de  Venus,  560 
Crocin,  Crocetin,  555 
Crocus,  555 
antimony,  222 
martis  adstringens,  735 
aperiens,  735 
aperitivus,  735 
sativus,  554 
Crossopterine,  488 
Crossopteryx  febrifuga,  488 
kotschyana,  488 
Crosswort,  1318 
Croton  Cascarilla,  417 
Eluteria,  417 
lucidus,  418 
Malambo,  418 
niveus,  418 
philippense,  909 
Pseudochina,  418 
sebifera,  1515 
seed,  1163 
Tiglium,  1163 
Croton  chloral,  460 
hydrate,  459 
Crotonol,  1163 
Crowfoot,  1364 
Crown-bark,  479 
Crown  rhubarb,  1377 
Crumb  of  bread,  1041 
Cryolite,  67,  1462 
Cryptocaria  spec.,  1077 


Cryptochoetis  andicola,  876 
Cryptococcus  cerevisise,  437 
Cryptopine,  1172 
Crystalline,  211 
Crystaux  de  Venus,  560 
Cuajaleche,  763 
Cuassia  amarga,  1338 
Cubeb,  556 
camphor,  1129 
Cubeba,  Cubebas,  556 
Clusii,  1250 
officinalis,  556,  1121 
spec.,  557 
Cubebse,  556 
Cubebin,  557 
Cubic  nitre,  1474 
Cuckoo-flower,  513 
pint,  294 
Cucumber,  558 
tree,  1011 
wild,  592 

Cucumina  sabinse,  1391 
Cucumis,  558 
agrestis,  592 
asininus,  592 
Citrullus,  559 
Colocynthis,  423 
Hardwickii,  524 
Melo,  559 
myriocarpus,  526 
prophetarum,  524,  593 
sativus,  558 
trigonus,  524 
Cucurbita  citrullus,  559 
Lagenaria,  559 
Melopepo,  1200 
Pepo,  1200 
Cucurbitine,  1200 
Cudbear,  924 

Cuernecillo  de  centeno,  615 
Cuir  de  pomme  de  grenadier,  794 
Cuivre,  565 
ammoniacal,  562 
Culantrillo,  127 
Culilawan-bark,  501 
Culver’s  physic,  934 
root,  934 
Cumene,  1255 
Cumin,  559 
aldehyde,  560 
des  pres,  415 
faux,  1081 
Cuminol,  560 
Cuminum  Cyminum,  559 
Cundurango,  varieties,  527 
Cunila  mariana,  859 
pulegioides,  806 
Cupellation,  287,  1265 
Cuphea,  species,  1003 
Cuprammonium,  562 
Cuprea-bark,  485,  487 
Cupreine  sulphate,  1352 
Cupreum  filum,  565 
Cupri  acetas,  560 
nitras,  561 
oxidum,  563 
subacetas,  561 
sulphas,  561 
Cupric  oxide,  563 
Cuprum,  565 
aceticum,  560 
aluminatum,  562 
ammoniatum,  562 
filum,  565 
oxy datum,  563 
sulfuricum  ammoniatum,  562 
vitriolatum,  561 
Curasao  aloes,  163 
orange-peel,  310 
Curare,  Curarine,  566 
Curazao,  310 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


1811 


Curcas  multifidus,  568 
purgans,  567 

Curcuma  angustifolia,  204 
aromatica,  1719 
leucorrhiza,  204 
louga,  568 
rotunda,  568 
Zedoaria,  1719 
Zerumbet,  1719 
Curcumin,  Curcumol,  569 
Curd  soap.  1418 
Curine,  567 
Curled  mint,  1034 
Currants,  1678 
Currier’s  sumach,  543 
Cuscamine,  Cuscamidine,  488 
Cusco-bark,  488 
Cusconine,  488 
Cusparia  febrifuga,  210 
Cusparin,  211 
Cusso,  570 
Cutcli,  425 
Cuttlefish  bone,  553 
Cut- weed,  757 
Cyankalium,  1296 
Cyanogen,  63 
Cyanquecksilber,  831 
Cyansilber,  277 
Cyanure  d’argent,  277 
de  fer,  729 
de  mercure,  831 
de  potassium,  1296 
Cyanuretum  ferroso-ferricum,  729 
ferroso-potassicum,  1299 
hydrargyricum,  831 
kalicum,  1296 
potassicum,  1296 
zincicum,  1734 
Cyanwasserstoff-Saure,  63 
Cybistax  antisyphilitica,  901 
Cyclamen  spec.,  572 
Cyclamin,  Cyclamiretin,  572 
Cydonia  europsea,  572 
japonica,  573 
vulgaris,  572 
Cydonium,  572 
Cymene,  Cymol,  560,  1162 
Cy  nan  chum,  298 
Argel,  1441 
monspelliacum,  1428 
olesefoliura,  1441 
Vincetoxicum,  299 
Cynapine,  532 
Cynara  scolymus,  414 
Cynips  Gall®  tinctori®,  764 
quercus  calycis,  765 
Cynoglossum  officinale,  349 
Cynorrhodon,  1384 
Cynosbata,  1384 
Cypripedium,  573 
parviflorum,  573 
pubescens,  573 
Cypripede,  573 
Cystoseira  siliquosa,  758 
Cytisus  Laburnum,  914 
Scoparius,  1431 
Cytisin,  915 

ACHWURZ.  1435 
Dsemonorops  Draco,  1366 
Daffodil,  1076 
Daggett,  338,  1255 
Dalbergia  arborea,  1153 
Damiana,  574 
Dammara  australis,  1365 
Dandelion,  1580 
Daphne  Gnidium,  1039 
Laureola,  1039 
Mezereum,  1039 
Salicifolia,  1040 
Daphnin,  Daphnetin,  1040 


| Darnel,  bearded,  997 
Date-plum,  587 
Dattelpflaumen,  587 
Datura  Stramonium,  1516 
spec.,  1516,  1517 
Daturine,  1516 
Daucus  Carota,  414 
Dead  nettle,  934 
oil,  332 
tongue,  477 

Deadly  nightshade,  327 
Decocta,  575 

Decoction,  of  aloes,  compound, 
576 

of  barley,  578 
of  broom,  580 
of  cetraria,  576 
of  cinchona,  577 
of  dandelion,  580 
of  elm-bark,  580 
of  Iceland  moss,  576 
of  logwood,  577 
of  oak-bark,  578 
of  pareira,  578 
of  pomegranate-root,  577 
of  poppies,  578 
of  sarsaparilla,  579 
compound,  579 
Decoctions,  575 

Decoctum  aloes  compositum,  576 
cetrari®,  576 
chin®,  577 
cinchon®,  577 
corticis  radicis  granati,  577 
granati  radicis,  577 
haematoxyli,  577 
hordei,  578 
lusitanicum,  579 
papaveris,  578 
pareir®,  578 
quercus,  578 
sars®,  579 
compositum,  579 
sarsaparillae,  579 
compositum,  579 
scoparii,  580 
taraxaci,  580 
ulmi,  580 

Zittmanni  fortius,  579 
mitius,  580 
Decotti,  575 
Dedalera,  580 
Deer’s  tongue,  936 
Degutt,  1255 

Dehydrodimethyl  - phenylpyra- 
zine,  226 

Delphinine,  Delphisine,  1513 
Delphinium  Consolida,  1513 
spec.,  1513 
Staphisagria,  1512 
Dent  de  lion,  1580 
Dentaire,  513 
Dentaria  spec.,  513 
Deshler’s  salve,  436 
Desoxyalizarin,  475 
Destillirte  Wasser,  246 
Destillirter  Essig,  13 
Destillirtes  Wasser,  260 
Deuteropine,  1172 
Deuto-chlorure  de  mercure,  820 
iodure  de  mercure,  833 
ioduretum  hydrargyri,  833 
oxide  de  mercure,  836,  837 
sulfate  de  mercure,  839 
[ Devil’s  bit,  442,  936 
shoestring,  1583 
Dewberry,  1387 
Dewees’  carminative,  1044 
j Dextrin,  203,  205 
Dextrinum,  205 
I Dextrose,  203,  1028,  1396 


Diacetyl-morphine,  1051 
Diachylon-Pilaster,  605 
Diachylonsalbe,  1663 
Dialysis,  958 

Diammonium  orthophosphate, 
190 

Diamond,  408 
fig,  357 
Diana,  287 
Diaphtherin,  451 
Diaspore,  173 
Diastase,  1013 
Dicentra  canadensis,  544 
eximia,  544 
Diclilormethane,  1036 
Dichopsis  Gutta,  801 
Dicinclioniue,  449,  489 
Diconchinine,  449,  489 
Dicypellium  caryophyllatum,  501 
Didelphys  cancrivora,  566 
Didymium,  438 
Dielytra  eximia,  544 
Diente  de  leon,  1580 
Diethylene-diamine,  1249 
Diethylsulphon  - dimethyl  me- 
thane, 1535 
Digger  pine,  1158 
Digitalacrin,  Digitalosmin,  583 
Digitale  pourpree,  580 
Digital etin,  Digitalein,  582 
Digitalin,  insoluble,  582 
soluble,  582 

Digitalina  cristallisata,  582 
Digitalinum,  581 
verum,  583 
Digitalis,  580 
ochroleuca,  583 
purpurea,  580 
tomentosa,  580 
Digitalretin,  582 
Digitasolin,  582 
Digitonin,  Digitoxin,  583 
Dihomocinchonine,  449,  489 
Diiodobetanaplitol,  1074 
Diiodosalol,  1403 
Diisoamylene,  1105 
Diisobutylorthocresoliodide,  879 
Dill-fruit,  209 
Dillol,  1108 
Dill-wasser,  254 
Dimetliylamine,  1645 
Dimothylbenzene,  1717 
Dimethylcarbinol,  200 
Dimethylethylcarbinol,  200 
Dimethyl-ketone,  11 
Dimethyl-phenylpyrazolon,  226 
Dinitrobrucine,  1085 
Dioscorea  spec.,  587 
villosa,  587 
Diosma  spec.,  354 
Diosmin,  355 
Diosphenol,  355 
Diospyros,  587 
embryopteris,  588 
Kaki,  588 
obtusifolia,  588 
virginiana,  587 

Diplolepis  gall®  tinctori®,  764 
Dippel’s  animal  oil,  1109 
Dipterocarpus  spec.,  538 
Dipteryx  odorata,  1030 
oppositifolia,  1030 
Diquinine  sulphate,  1351 
Discs,  927 

Disodium  hydrogen  phosphate, 
1476 

Dispermine,  1249 
Displacement,  639 
Distillation,  645 
Dita-bark,  Ditarinde,  166 
Ditaine,  Ditamine,  166 


1812 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


Ditch-stonecrop,  1435 
Dithymoldiiodide,  879 
Dittany,  859 
Diuretin,  1481 
Dock,  1388 
Doctor  gum,  7 
Dog  chamomile,  546 
killer,  526 
rose,  1384 
Dog’s  bane,  234 
Dogwood-bark,  543 
round-leaved,  544 
Doldenmangold-Extrakt,  659 
Dolicbos  pruriens,  1063 
Soja,  1154 
urens,  1064 
Dolomite,  1005 
Dompte-venin,  299 
Donovan’s  solution,  950 
Doppel  vitriol,  562 
Dorema  Ammoniacum,  178 
Aucheri,  179 
robustum,  179 
Dornige  Aralienrinde,  274 
Dorse,  1132 
Dorstenia  spec.,  534 
Dosten,  1183 
Doundake,  430 
Dover’s  powder,  1330 
Dracfena  Draco,  1366 
Ombet,  1366 
Drachenblut,  1366 
Drachenwurzel,  588 
Dracontium,  588 
fcetidum,  588 
Dragees,  1237 
Dragon’s  blood,  1366 
Dragon-root,  294 
Dragunbeifuss,  4 
Draughts,  1042 
Dreche,  1013 
Dreiblatt,  1035 
Dreifach-Chlorjod,  889 
Dreifaltigkeitskraut,  1710 
Dreisteinwurzel,  1646 
Drimys  Winteri,  spec.,  1077 
Drops,  1042 
sugar,  1650 
peppermint,  1650 
Drosera  intermedia,  589 
longifolia,  589 
rotun  difolia,  589 
Drusenklee,  1321 
Dryobalanops  aromatica,  388 
Camphora,  388 
Duboisia  myoporoides,  854 
Hopwoodii,  854,  857 
Duboisine,  854 
Dulcamara,  590 
flexuosa,  590 
Dulcamaretin,  590 
Dulcarin,  Dulcamarin,  590 
Dulcin,  1393 
Dulse,  472 

Dumerilia  Alami,  1379 
Durazno,  1207 
Durchwachsdost,  631 
Durchwachsdosten  - Extrakt, 
671 

Diirlitze,  544 
Diirrwurz,  876 
Dutch  liquid,  139 
myrtle,  1065 
Dwale,  327 
Dwarf  elder,  1407 
iris,  900 
sagebrush,  5 
Dyer’s  madder,  763 
saffron,  415 
weed,  403 
Dynamite,  1505 


Earth-wax,  431, 1192 

East  India  arrow-root,  204 
bdellium,  1068 
gum,  6 

East  Indian  bdellium,  1068 
gum,  6 
isinglass,  860 
rhubarb,  1377 
tamarinds,  1578 
j Eaton’s  syrup,  1562 
I Eau,  237 

alcaline  gazeuse,  978,  983 
| ammoniaque,  248 
] forte,  248 
blanche,  975 
camphree,  255 
chloree,  256 
creosotee,  259 
d’amandes  arneres,  253 
d'aneth,  254 
d’ange,  1069 
d’anis,  254 
d’arquebusade,  102 
de  cannelle,  259 
de  carvi,  255 
de  chaux,  952 
de  chloroform  e,  258 
de  Cologne,  1507 
de  fenouil,  260 
de  fleur  d’ orange,  254 
de  framboise,  1569 
de  goudron,  1255 
de  Goulard,  975 
de  Hongrie,  1508 
de  javelle,  984 
de  la  reine  de  Hongrie,  1508 
de  laurier-cerise,  263 
de  lavande,  1505 
de  lithine,  970 
de  menthe  poivree,  264 
verte,  264 
de  napbe,  254 

de  piment  de  la  Jamaique,  264 
de  Rabel,  102 
de  rose,  265 
de  saturne,  975 
de  sureau,  265 
de  vie,  1508 
de  grains,  1503 
de  marc,  1508 
des  Cannes,  1031 
distillee,  260 
divine  de  Fernel,  998 
gazeuse  simple,  46 
laxative  de  Vienne,  874 
magnesienne,  970 
phagedenique,  998 
noir,  998 
pheniquee,  39 
regale,  76 

sedative  de  Raspail,  265 
Eaux  distillees,  246 
medicinales  naturelles,  265 
minerales,  265 
Eberesche,  1491 
Eberraute,  4 
Eberwurz,  876 
Ebonite,  594 
Ebur  ustum,  405 
Ecailles  d’buitres,  553 
Ecbalium  agreste,  592 
spec.,  592 
Elaterium,  592 
officinale,  592 
Ecbaline,  593 
Ecboline,  617 
Ecgonine,  503 
Echalotte,  160 
Ecbicaoutchin,  166 
Echicerin,  166 
Echinus  philippinensis,  909 


Echiretin,  166 
Echitamine,  166 
Echitein,  166 
Echitenine,  166 
Echites  acuminata,  527 
birsuta,  527 
scbolaris,  166 
spec.,  167 
Echitin,  166 
Ecbium  vulgare,  350 
Echujin,  583 
Eclegma,  1042 

Ecorce  d’aralie  epineuse,  274 
d’aune,  161 
d’azedarach,  316 
de  balaustier,  792 
de  bonnet  de  pretre,  629 
de  bourdaine,  755 
de  bigarade,  310 
de  chene,  1340 
de  citron,  937 

de  cornouiller  a grands  fleurs, 
543 

de  dita,  166 
de  fusain,  629 
de  geoffree,  208 
de  grenade,  793 
de  limon.  937 
de  mangone,  624 
de  margousier,  316 
de  meleze,  930 
d’ orange  amere,  310 
douces,  312 
de  quillaya,  1342 
de  sassafras,  1426 
eleutherienne,  417 
Eddoes,  294 
Edelleberkraut,  811 
Edeitanne,  1586 
Edible  birds’  nests,  473 
Edible  moss,  473 
Egg,  1713 
albumen,  147, 1713 
shell,  1713 
Egyptian  calla,  294 
tamarinds,  1573 
Ehrenpreis,  1695 
Ei,  1713 
Eibe,  1582 
Eibiscb,  167 
Eibischsaft,  1555 
Eicbelkaffee,  1341 
Eicbenrinde,  1340 
Eichenrinde-Absud,  578 
Eidotter,  1714 
Eierol,  1714 
Eierscbale,  1713 
Eigelb,  1714 
Einbrodt’s  reagent,  250 
Einfacbes  Cerat,  433 
Einreibungen,  938 
Eisen,  744 

Eisenacetattinktur,  1618 
Eisenalaunamomniakalischer,  723 
Eisen,  arsenaures,  716 
dialysirtes,  958 
reducirtes,  749 
Eisenbromid,  717 
Eisenbromursirup,  1560 
Eisen-cbinen,  citronensaures,  726 
Eisencbinincitrat,  726 
Eisencblorid,  719,  957 
Eisencbloridtinktur,  1618 
Eisencblorur,  721 
Eisenchlorursirup,  1561 
Eisencitrat,  721,  962 
Eisenhut,  117 
Eisenhuttinktur,  1605 
Eisenjodur,  732 
Eisenjodurpillen,  1243 
Eisenjodursirup,  1558 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


1813 


Eisenjodiirzucker,  731 
Eisenlactat,  733 
Eisenmennige,  735 
Eisenmixtur,  aromatische,  1042 
Eisenniti*at,  963 
Eisenoxyd,  735 
arsensaures,  712 
baldriansaures,  743 
citronensaures,  721 
hydrat,  735 
feuchtes,  734 
losliches,  736 
phosphorsaures,  738 
pyropliosphorsaures,  739 

mit  citronensaurem  Natron, 
739 

schwefelsaures,  966 
unterphosphorigsaures,  730 
Eisenoxyd- Ammonium,  citronen- 
saures, 722 

schwefelsaures,  723,  966 
weinsaures,  724 
Eisenoxydclilorid,  958 
Eisenoxyd-Kali,  weinsaures,  725 
Eisenoxydul  milclisaures,  733 
oxalsaures,  745 
schwefelsaures,  740 
Eisenoxydul-Oxyd,  735 
phosphorsaures,  738 
Eisenphosphatsirup,  1560 
Eisenpastillen,  1652 
Eisenpflaster,  602 
Eisenpillen,  1021 
Eisensafran,  735 
rother,  735 
Eisensalmiak,  186 
Eisen-Strychnin,  citronensaures, 
728 

Ei  sen  vitriol,  740 
Eisenwein,  1705,  1706 
Eisenweinstein,  725 
Eisenzucker,  736 
Eisenzuckersirup,  736 
Eisessig,  19 
Eiskraut,  357 
Eiweiss,  147,  1713 
Eko,  566 
Elaeocereoles,  432 
Elseoles,  1141 
Elseopten,  1091 
Elaidin,  1094 
Elais  guineensis,  1142 
Elaphomyces  granulatus,  1000 
Elaphrium  elemifera,  596 
tomentosum,  1587 
Elastica,  593 

Elastisches  Kollodium,  521 
Elaterid,  Elaterin,  593,  595 
Elaterin,  trituration,  1648 
Elaterin  urn,  592,  595 
Elaterium  cordifolium,  592 
officinale,  592 
Elayl,  1104 
Elaylchlorid,  139 
Elavlum  chloratum,  139 
Elder,  1406 
Eleboro  negro,  808 
Elecampane,  875 
Electuaire  aromatique,  1327 
de  poivre,  529 
de  scammonee,  529 
de  sene  composee,  529 
de  soufre,  530 
lenitif,  529 
opiace,  528 
terebinthine,  530 
Electuaria,  528 
Electuaries,  528 
Electuarium  aromaticum,  1327 
de  senna  compositum,  529 
e senna,  529 


| Electuarium — 
lenitivum,  529 
piperis,  529 
sulphuris,  530 
terebinthinatum,  530 
theriaca,  528 
Elemi,  596 
Elemisalbe,  1663 
Elenio,  875 
Elephant  apple,  326 
Elettaria  Cardamomum,  412 
major,  412 

Elettuario  lenitivo,  529 
Elianto,  807 

Elixir  acidum  Halleri,  102 
ad  longam  vitam,  1606 
amarum,  312 
amer  de  Pevrilhe,  1621 
aromaticum,  597 
aurantiorum  compositum,  312 
bitter,  312 
de  propriete,  1605 
de  salut,  1638 
de  Stoughton,  1635 
e succo  liquiriti®,  676 
febrifuge  d'Huxam,  1615 
hypnone,  12 

liquorice-root,  aromatic,  677 
magnesii  acetatis,  972 
monobromated  camphor,  392 
opium,  1632 
paraldehyde,  1195 
paregoricum,  1631 
scoticum,  1631 
phosphori,  598 
proprietatis  Paracelsi,  1605 
roborans  Wliyttii,  1615 
sacrum,  1635 
salutis,  1638 
simple,  597 

stomachique  amer,  1635 
de  Stoughton,  1685 
suedicum,  1606 
traumaticum,  1609 
viscerale  Hoffmanni,  312 
vitriol,  103 

vitrioli  Mynsichti,  103 
vitriolique,  103 
Elixiria,  597 
Eller,  161 
Elloopa,  1161 
tree,  1047 
j Elm-bark,  1657 
j Elsenich,  1436 
Elutriatiou.  552,  1324 
Embelia  Ribes,  910 
Emblica  officinalis,  1067 
Embrocations,  938 
Emburerembo,  903 
Emeril,  174 
! Emery,  174 
I Emetia,  Emetine,  894 
I Emetinum  coloratum,  895 
j Emetique,  217 
; Emodin,  756,  1378 
Empiastri,  598 
Empiastro  adesiro,  607 
diachilon,  605 
mercurial,  602 
Emplastra,  598 
| Emplastrum  aconiti,  120 
adhaesivum,  607 
anglicum,  603 
edinburgense,  607 
| album  coctum,  608 
ammoniaci,  609 
cum  hydrargyro,  598 
antimoniale,  219 
antimonii,  219 
I arnie®,  600 
| aromaticum,  601 


Emplastrum — 
asafcetidae,  609 
belladonnae,  601 
calefaciens,  604 
cantharidis,  434 
cantharidum,  434 
ordinarium,  434 
capsici,  601 
cephalicum,  604 
cerati  saponis,  608 
cerussae,  608 
cum  sapone,  607 
de  Vigo  cum  mercurio,  603 
diachylon  compositum,  602 
simplex,  605 

diachylum  gummatum,  602 
epispasticum,  434 
ferratum,  602 
ferri,  602 
fcetidum,  609 
fuscum,  608 
camphoratum,  609 
galbani,  602 

compositum,  602 
crocatum,  602 
rubrum,  602 
hydrargyri,  602 
ichthyocollae,  603 
lithargyri  compositum,  602 
molle,  609 
simplex,  605 
martiale,  602 
matris  album,  609 
fuscum,  608 
meliloti,  1031 
mentholi,  604 
mercuriale,  602 
minii  rubrum,  609 
adustum,  608 
nigrum,  608 
noricum,  608 
odontalgicum,  604 
opiatum,  opii,  604 
oxycroceum,  602 
picatum,  604 
picis,  604 
burgundic®,  604 
canadensis,  609 
cantharidatum,  604 
liquid®  compositum,  608 
plumbi,  605 

compositum,  602 
iodidi,  607 
resin®,  607 
roborans,  602 
saponatum,  saponis,  607 
saponis  fuscum,  608 
simplex,  605 
spermatis  ceti,  435 
stibiatum,  219 
universale,  608 
vesicans,  434 
vesicatorium,  434 
ordinarium,  434 
Emplatre  adhesive,  607 
antimonial,  219 
blanc  cuit,  608 
brun,  609 
calmant,  604 
cephalique,  604 
d’arnique,  600 
de  belladone,  601 
de  Canet,  602 
de  cantharides,  434 
de  ceruse,  608 

de  gomme  ammoniaque  mer- 
curiel,  600 

d’iodure  de  plomb,  607 
de  litharge,  605 
de  menthol,  604 
d’oxide  de  fer,  602 


1814 

Emplatre — 
de  plomb,  605 
de  poix  cantliaride,  604 
de  Bourgogne,  604 
de  saturne,  608 
de  savon,  607 
diachylon  gomme,  602 
dit  de  Vigo,  603 
emetissee,  219 
fondant,  564 
mercuriel,  602 
odontalgique,  604 
resolutif,  564 
resoneux,  607 
simple,  605 
temporal,  604 
vesicatoire,  434 
Emplatres,  598 
Ems  springs,  266,  269 
Emulsa,  609 
Emulsin,  194 

Emulsio  amygdalarum,  611 
composita,  611 

purgans  cum  scammonio,  612 
simplex.  611 

Emulsion,  ammoniac,  610 
almond,  611 
asafcetida,  611 
chloroform,  612 
guaiacum,  612 
scammony,  612 
simple,  6il 
Emulsions,  609 
Emulsum  ammoniaci,  610 
amygdalae,  611 
asafcetidse,  611 
chloroformi,  612 
guaiaci,  612 
scammonii,  612 
Encens,  1166 
Encina,  1340 
de  mar,  757 
Endive,  Endivie,  1581 
Endodeca  serpentaria,  1442 
Enebro,  906 
Eneldo,  209 
Enema  aloes,  613 
anodynum,  613 
antibystericum,  613 
asafcetidae,  613 
catharticum,  613 
fcetidum,  613 
magnesise  sulphatis,  613 
of  asafcetida,  613 
of  opium,  613 

of  sulphate  of  magnesia,  613 
of  tobacco,  613 
of  turpentine,  614 
opii,  613 
sedativum,  613 
tabaci,  614 
terebintbinae,  614 
Enemata,  613 
Enfleurage,  1091 
Engelwurzel,  209 
Englisch  Both,  735 
Englisclies  Gewiirz,  1247 
Pflaster,  604 
English  chamomile,  215 
red,  735 
walnut,  905 

Entwassertes  Ferrosulfat,  742 
Enzianaufguss,  871 
Enzianextrakt,  673 
Enziantinktur,  1621 
Enzianwurzel,  771 
Enzymes,  1189 
Eone,  566 
Epazota,  446 
Eperviere,  812 
Epbedrine,  310 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


Epheu,  Amerikanischer,  193 
Epigaea,  1679 
Epine-vinette,  336 
Epiphegus  americanus,  614 
virginiana,  614 
Eponge,  1509 
preparee  a la  ficelle,  1510 
Eppich,  1212 
Epsom  salt,  1008 

effervescent,  1009 
Epurge,  568 

Equisetum  arvense,  615 
hyemale,  615 
Erdartischocke,  808 
Erdbrot,  572 
Erdnussol,  1153 
Erdrauch,  758 
Erdscheibe,  572 
Erechites  hieracifolia,  1122 
Ergot,  615 
Ergota,  615 
Ergotin,  617,  669 
Ergotinine,  618 
Ergotinum,  669 
Ericolin,  623,  767 
Erigeron,  1121 
Eriodictyon  glutinosum,  623 
Extrakt,  670 
Erisimo,  513 
Erlenrinde,  161 
Erodium  cicutarium,  774 
moschatum,  774 
Eryngium  spec.,  623,  624 
Eryngo,  623 
Erysimum  Alliaria,  513 
officinale,  513 

Erythraea  Centaurium,  1391 
chilensis,  1391 
jorullensis,  1391 
stricta,  1391 

Erythrina  corallodendron,  924 
monosperma,  923 
Erythrocentaurin,  1391 
Erythrocephalein,  895 
Erytbrolein,  924 
Erytbrolitmin,  924 
Erythrophleine,  624 
Erythroiihlceum  guineense,  624 
Couminga,  624 
judiciale,  624 
Erythroretin,  1378 
Erythroxyline,  503 
Erytbroxylon,  502 
Coca,  502 
Spruceanum,  502 
Esca  facaja,  759 
Escamonea,  1369 
Escaraninjo,  1384 
Esche,  756 
Escila,  1429 
Escordio,  1589 
Esels-Kiirbis,  592 
Esenbeckia  febrifuga,  211,  491 
Esenbeckine,  211 
Eserine  salts,  1224 
Espanta  lobos,  526 
Esparraguera,  300 
Especes  aromatiques,  1033 
pectorales,  169 
sudorifiques,  796 
Esperma  de  ballena,  439 
Espliego,  932 
Esponja,  1509 
Esprit  de  bois,  157 
de  campfire,  1502 
de  Mindererus,  948 
de  petrole,  333 
de  raifort  composee,  1501 
de  vinaigre,  19 
d’orange,  1502 
composee,  1502 


Esprit — 

pyroacetique,  11 
pyroligneux,  157 
Essence  amandes  ameres,  1105 
anetfi,  1108 
anise,  625,  1110 
antihysterique,  1501 
bay,  1136 
Bigarade,  1112 
bitter  almonds,  1501 
cinnamon,  1503 
de  feuilles  de  pin,  1586 
de  thyme,  1162 
goudron,  1143 
lemon,  1506 
malt,  686 

mentfie  de  cfieval,  1046 
mirbane,  1080 
muscade,  1137 
peppermint,  625,  1506 
petit  grain,  312 
Portugal,  1112 
rose,  1147 
spearmint,  1506 
vanilla,  1641 
Essences,  625,  1089 
Essentia  anisi,  625 
menthse  piperita},  625 
pepsini,  1204 
Essentise,  625 
Essenzen,  625 
Essig,  12,  23 
aromatiscfier,  14 
destillirter,  13 
reiner,  22 
Essigather,  137 
Essiggeist,  11 
Essignapfitfia,  137 
Essigrose,  1385 
Essigrosen-Extrakt,  700 
Essigsaure,  17,  19 
verdiinnte,  21 

Essig-weinsaure  Tlionerde,  176 
Estafisagria,  1512 
Estragon,  4 

Estoraque  liquido,  1532 
Estramonio,  1516 
Estratto,  635 
liquido,  635 
Etain,  1511 
Eter  sulfurico,  129 
Etere,  129 
acetico,  137 
isoamil  nitroso,  195 
Etfial,  440 

Ethene  chloride,  139 
Ether,  129 
absolute,  130 
acetic,  137 
amylazoteux,  195 
amylo-nitrous,  195 
amylo- valerianic,  114 
azoteux  alcoolise,  1495 
bromhydrique,  14.1 
chlorhydrique  monochlorur 
1036 

chloric,  1503 
ethylamylic,  1105 
formic,  132 
hydriodic,  143 
hydrique,  129 
alcoolise,  1495 
pur,  130 

hydrobromic,  141 
hydrochloric,  139 
hydrocyanic,  66 
methyl-ethylo,  132 
methylic,  132 
methyl-salicylic,  1123 
methyl-sulphuric,  132 
methylen-dimethyl,  132 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


1815 


Ether — 

monochlorinated  hydrochloric, 
139 

muriatic,  139 
cenanthic,  1145 
official,  pure,  130 
petroleum,  333 
pure,  130 
pyroacetic,  11 
sulphuric,  129,  1105 
sulphurique  129 
alcoolise,  1495 
sulphurous,  1105 
vinique,  129 
xylostvptic,  523 
Etherification,  123 
Etherin,  Etherol,  1105 
Etherolees,  1604 
Ethiopian  sour  gourd,  123 
Ethiops  martial,  735 
saccharin,  1022 
Ethoxy-caffeine,  366 
Ethuse,  531 

Ethydene  chloride,  139 
Ethyl  acetate,  137 
bromide,  141 
carbamate,  1674 
chloride,  139 
cyanide,  66 
hydroxide,  152 
iodide,  143 
nitrite,  1497 
oxide,  130 
sulphate,  1105 
sulphite,  1105 
urethane,  1674 
Ethylamylketoue,  1105 
Ethylbenzene,  1717 
Ethylcarbylamin,  66 
Ethylene,  18,  1104 
bichloride,  139 
bromide,  143 
imine,  1249 

Ethylidene  chloride,  139 
Eucalyptol,  625,  1122 
Eucalyptus,  626 
corymbosa,  911 
gigantea,  911 
globulus,  625,  911 
honey,  629 
leaves,  626 
oleosa,  1115 
piperita,  911 
resinifera,  911 
rostrata,  911 
spec.,  1122 
viminalis,  1019 
Eucalyptusol,  1122 
Eucheuma  gelatin®,  473 
spi nosum,  473 
Euchlorine,  1291 
Eugenia  acris,  1136 
aromatica,  416 
caryophyllata,  416,  1116 
Cheken,  1069 
Jambos,  1070 
Pimenta,  1143,  1247 
Eugenin,  417 
Eugenol,  1117 
acetamide,  1117 
Eukalyptus-Blatter,  626 
Extrakt,  671 

Eulophia  campestris,  1399 
herbacea,  1399 
Euonymine,  630 
Euonymus,  629 
americanus,  630 
atropurpureus,  629 
europaeus,  630 
Eupatoire  des  Grecs,  145 
Eupatoriu,  631 


| Eupatorium,  631 
Eupatorium-Aufguss,  631 
connatum,  631 
glutiuosum,  1024 
perfoliatum,  631 
I Euphorbe,  632 
Euphorbia  corollata,  632 
Ipecacuanha,  632 
Lathyris,  568,  1163 
resinifera,  633 
spec.,  633 
Euphorbium,  633 
! Euphorbon,  633,  634 
j Euphraise,  635 
I Euphrasia  officinalis,  635 
j Eupion,  547,  1255 
European  centaury,  1391 
elm-bark,  1658 
holly,  861 
masterwort,  118 
sumach,  1381 
turpentine,  1586 
Europhen,  879 
Europhin,  1675 
Euryangium  Sumbul,  1544 
Evaporation,  644 
Evening  primrose,  1088 
I Everitt’s  salt,  64 
Evodia  febrifuga,  211 
rutaecarpa,  1389 
Evodine,  211 
Exalgin,  9,  11 
Exccecaria  sebifera,  1515 
Exodyne,  11 
Exogonium  Jalapa,  901 
Extract,  aconite,  647 
leaves,  648 
root,  647 
aloes,  649 

American  hemp,  395 
arnica-root,  650 
Barbadoes  aloes,  649 
beef,  656 
belladonna,  653 
alcoholic,  652 
bistort,  775 
bittersweet,  669 
black  cohosh,  660 
hellebore,  809 
blue  flag,  681 
boldo,  348 
burdock,  929 
butternut,  682 
Calabar  bean,  694 
Calisaya-bark,  660 
calumba,  654 
cascara  sagrada,  698 
centaury,  1391 
chamomile,  649 
cimicifuga,  660 
cinchona,  660 
cod-liver,  1134 
colchicum,  662 
acetic,  662 
root,  662 
colocynth,  663 
compound,  664 
conium,  665 
alcoholic,  665 
dandelion,  707 
digitalis,  667 
elderberries,  1407 
elecampane,  876 
ergot,  669 
euonymus,  671 
dry,  671 
frangula,  672 
gelsemium,  673,  1621 
gentian.  673 
glycyrrhiza,  674 
pure,  675 


Extract — 
h®matoxylon,  678 
hemlock-bark,  1254 
fruit,  alcoholic,  665 
henbane,  679 
hop,  685 

hyoscyamus,  679 
alcoholic,  679 

Indian  cannabis,  hemp,  655 
iris,  681 

j jaborandi,  695 
j jalap,  681 
juglans,  682 
krameria,  682 
leptandra,  684 
lettuce,  683 
liquorice,  674,  675 
logwood,  678 
malt,  685 
mandrake,  695 
may-apple,  695 
meat,  656 
mezereum,  688 
ethereal,  688 
myrrh,  1069 
nux  vomica,  688 
opium,  691 
denarcotized,  692 
pareira,  692 
physostigma,  694 
podophyllum,  695 
poppies,  692 
quassia,  697 
rhatany,  682 
rhubarb,  698 
senega,  704 
Socotrine  aloes,  649 
stramonium-leaves,  707 
seed,  706 
taraxacum,  707 
valerian,  710 
wahoo,  671 

Extracta,  Extracta  fluida,  635 
narcotica  sicca,  647 
Extractos,  635 
Extracts,  635 
alcoholic,  637 
aqueous,  636 
dry  narcotic,  647 
ethereal,  637 
fluid,  637 

hydro-alcoholic,  635 
liquid,  637 
powdered,  647 
Extractum  absinthii,  5 
aconiti,  647 
fluidum,  648 
herb®,  648 
radicis,  647 
aloes,  649 

acido-sulphurico  correctum, 
649 

aquosum,  613 
barbadensis,  649 
socotrin®,  649 
anthemidis,  216,  649 
fluidum,  649 
apocyni  fluidum,  649 
arnic®  radicis,  650 
fluidum,  650 
aroma ticum  fluidum,  651 
asclepiadis  fluidum,  651 
aspidospermatis  fluidum,  651 
aurantii  amari  fluidum,  652 
bardan®,  929 
bel®  liquidum,  652 
belladonn®,  653 
alcoholicum,  652 
fluidum,  653 

foliorum  alcoholicum,  652 
radicis  fluidum,  653 


j 816 


Extractum — 
bistort®,  775 
brayer®  fluidum,  667 
buchu  fluidum,  654 
calami,  368 
fluidum,  654 
calumb®,  654 
fluidum,  635 
cannabis  american®,  395 
indie®,  655 
fluidum,  656 
capsici  fluidum,  656 
cardui  benedicti,  413 
carnis,  Liebig,  656 
cascar®  sagrad®  fluidum,  697 
cascarill®,  418 
castane®  fluidum,  658 
catholicum,  698 
centaurii,  1391 
chamomill®  roman®,  649 
chelidonii,  445 
chimaphil®  fluidum,  659 
chin®  aquosum,  661 
calisay®  fluidum,  661 
frigide  paratum,  661 
spirituosum,  660 
ehirat®  fluidum,  659 
cimicifug®,  660 
fluidum,  660 
cin®,  1413 
cinchon®,  660 
liquidum,  661 
fluidum,  661 
coc®  fluidum,  662 
colchici,  662 
aceticum,  662 
radicis,  662 
fluidum,  663 
seminis  fluidum,  663 
colocynthidis,  663 
alcoholicum,  663 
compositum,  664 
Colombo,  654 
condurango  fluidum,  665 
conii,  665,  666 
alcoholicum,  665 
fluidum,  666 
fructus  fluidum,  666 
convallari®,  535 
fluidum,  666 
cubeb®  ®thereum,  1101 
fluidum,  666 
cubebarum,  1101 
cusso  fluidum,  667 
cypripedii  fluidum,  667 
digitalis,  667 
alcoholicum,  667 
fluidum,  668 
dulcamar®,  669 
fluidum,  668 
ergot®,  669 
fluidum,  669 
eriodictyi  fluidum,  670 
erythroxyli  fluidum,  662 
eucalypti  fluidum,  671 
euonymi,  671 
siccum,  671 
eupatorii  fluidum,  671 
fab®  calabaric®,  694 
fellis  bovini,  715 
ferri  pomatum,  745 
filicis,  1100 
®thereum,  1100 
liquidum,  1100 
frangul®  fluidum,  672 
fraxini  american®,  757 
fluidum,  757 
gelsemii,  1621 
alcoholicum,  673 
fluidum,  672 
gentian®,  673 


GENERAL  INDEX. 

Extractum — 
gentian®  fluidum,  673 
geranii  fluidum,  673 
glycyrrhiz®,  674,  676 
depuratum,  676 
fluidum,  676 
liquidum,  676 
purum,  675 

gossypii  radicis  fluidum,  677 
graminis,  709 
gratiol®,  794 
grin  deli®  fluidum,  677 
guaran®  fluidum,  677 
li®matoxyli,  678 
h®mostaticum,  669 
hamamelidis  fluidum,  678 
helenii,  876 
hellebori,  809 
humuli,  685 
hydrastis  fluidum,  679 
hyoscyami,  680 
alcoholicum,  679 
fluidum,  680 

ipecacuanh®  fluidum,  680 
iridis,  681 
fluidum,  681 
jaborandi,  695 
jalap®,  681 
ju  gland  is,  682 
krameri®,  682 
fluidum,  683 
koso  fluidum,  667 
lactuc®,  683,  926 
viros®,  683 
lapp®  fluidum,  684 
leptandr®,  684 
fluidum,  684 
ligni  campechiani,  678 
liquiriti®,  674 
depuratum,  676 
radicis,  675 
lobeli®  fluidum,  685 
lupuli,  685 

lupulin®  fluidum,  685 
lupulini  ®thereum,  1102 
malti,  686 
ferratum,  687 
fluidum,  687 
matico  fluidum,  687 
menispermi  fluidum,  687 
menyanthis,  1036 
mezerei,  688 
®thereum,  688 
fluidum,  688 
millefolii,  17 
monesi®,  1047 
myrrh®,  1069 
nucis  vomic®,  688 
aquosum,  690 
fluidum,  691 

nucum  vomicarum  spirituo- 
sum, 688 
opii,  691 

liquidum,  692 
panchymagogum,  698 
papaveris,  693 
pareir®,  693 
fluidum,  693 
liquidum,  693 
peponis  fluidum,  1201 
physostigmatis,  694 
phytolacc®  radicis  fluidum,  694 
pilocarpi  fluidum,  695 
piscidi®  fluidum,  1251 
podopliylli,  695 
fluidum,  696 

pruni  Virginian®  fluidum,  696 
pulsatill®,  1323 
quassi®,  697 
fluidum,  697 
quillai®,  1342 


Extractum — 
ratanli®,  682 
rliamni  frangul®,  672 
Purshian®  fluidum,  697 
rhei,  697 
alcoholicum,  698 
compositum,  698 
fluidum,  699 

rhois  glabr®  fluidum,  699 
ros®  fluidum,  700 
rubi  fluidum,  700 
rumicis  fluidum,  700 
sabin®,  701 
fluidum,  701 

sanguinari®  fluidum,  701 
sanguinis,  1410 
sars®  liquidum,  702 
sarsaparill®  fluidum,  702 
compositum,  702 
scill®,  703 
fluidum,  703 
scoparii  fluidum,  703 
scutellari®  fluidum,  704 
secalis  cornuti,  669 
fluidum,  669 
seneg®,  704 
fluidum,  704 
senn®  fluidum,  705 
serpentari®  fluidum,  705 
spigeli®  et  senn®  fluidum,  706 
spigeli®  fluidum,  705 
stillingi®  fluidum,  706 
stramonii,  706 
fluidum,  707 
foliorum,  707 
seminis,  706 
strychni,  688 
aquosum,  690 
taraxaci,  707 
fluidum,  liquidum,  708 
thebaicum,  691 
trifolii  fibrini,  1036 
tritici  fluidum,  708 
uvse  ursi,  709 
fluidum,  709 
valerian®,  710 
fluidum,  710 

veratri  viridis  fluidum,  710 
viburni  opuli  fluidum,  710 
prunifolii  fluidum,  711 
xanthoxyli  fluidum,  711 
zingiberis  ®thereum,  1103 
fluidum,  711 
Extrait  de  saturne,  973 
etheree  de  capsique,  1101 
savonneux  de  Purine,  1673 
Extraits,  635 
etheree,  1100 
liquides,  635 
Extrakte,  635 
atherische,  1100 
fliissige,  635 
Eyebright,  635 
spotted,  633 

FABA  calabarica,  1220 
physostigmatis,  1220 
Ignati,  1086 
vulgaris,  713 
Fab®  cacao,  1595 
Fabiana  imbricata,  712 
Fackeldistel,  356 
Factitious  sago,  205 
Fagus  Castanea,  420 
pumila,  420 
sylvatica,  1126 
Fall  kraut,  289 
False  acacia,  1384 
angustura-bark,  211 
benzoin,  335 
bittersweet,  429 


False — 
saffron,  417 
sarsaparilla,  275 
senega,  1438 
Solomon’s  seal,  535 
strophanthus-seed,  1523 
unicorn-root,  442 
Fiirberrothe,  763 
Farina  avenge,  316 
de  riz,  203 
fabge,  713 

liordei  prgeparata,  817 
liui,  940 
phaseoli,  714 
tritici,  713 

Farine  d’avoine,  316 
de  ble,  713 
de  froment,  713 
de  lin,  945 
de  riz,  203 
Fats,  1092 

Faulbaumrinde,  755 
Faulbaumrinden-Extrakt,  672 
Fausse  acanthe,  812 
oronge,  760 
Faux  cumin,  1081 
ebenier,  914 
fenouil,  1591 
Featherfew,  1198 
Feather  geranium,  447 
Fecula  de  patata,  203 
Fecule  de  maize,  201 
de  pomme  de  terre,  203 
de  Tolomane,  204 
Federbarz,  593 
Feigbohne,  998 
Feige,  751 

Fel  bovinum,  bovis,  714 
bovis  depuratum,  715 
inspissatum,  715 
purificatum,  715 
tauri,  714 
Feldcypresse,  1589 
Feldkresse,  514 
Feldraute,  758 
Feldspar,  1288 
Feldthymian,  859 
Feminelle,  555 
Fencliel,  752 
Fenchelholz,  1426 
Fenchelol,  1122 
Fenchelwasser,  260 
Fennel,  752 
flower,  1081 
fruit,  752 
root,  753 
seed,  782 

Fenolo  cristallizzato,  37 
liquido,  39 
Fenouil,  752 
d’eau,  1213 
puant,  209 

Fenugreek,  Fenugrec,  753 
Fer,  744 
dialyse,  958 

reduit  par  l’hydrogene,  749 
Feraconitine,  120 
Fermentation,  147 
acetic,  148 
alcoholic,  147 
butyric,  147 
lactic,  69,  147 
mucic,  147 
saccharine,  147 
vinous,  148 
Fermentolea,  1089 
Ferngale,  526 

Feronia  elephantum,  6.  326 
Ferreira  spectabilis,  913 
Ferret  d’Espagne,  735 
Ferri  acetas,  956 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


Ferri — 

ammonio-citras,  722 
sulphas,  723 
tartras,  724 
arsenas,  716 
benzoas,  745 
bromidum,  717 
carbonas  saccharatus,  717 
chloridum,  719 
citras,  721 

et  ammonii  citras,  722 
sulphas,  723 
tartras,  724 
et  potassii  tartras,  725 
et  quiniae  citras,  726 
et  quininge  citras,  726 
solubilis,  728 

et  sodii  citro-phosphas,  737 
et  sodii  citro-pyrophosphas,  739 
et  sodii  pyrophosphas,  740 
et  strychninge  citras,  728 
ferrocyanidum,  729 
ferrocyanu return,  729 
hypophosphis,  730 
iodidum,  732 

saccharatum,  731 
kali  tartaricum,  725 
lactas,  733 
malas,  745 
oxalas,  745 

oxidum  hydratum,  734 
cum  magnesia,  737 
magneticum,  735,  737 
rubrum,  735 
perchloridum,  719 
peroxidum,  734 
hydratum,  735 
phosphas,  738 
albus,  739 
solubilis,  737 
potassio-tartras,  725 
pyrophosphas,  739 
solubilis,  739 
salicylas,  745 
subcarbonas,  735 
sulphas,  740 
exsiccatus,  742 
granulatus,  741 
prgecipitatus,  741 
sulphidum,  742 
tannas,  745 
valerianas,  743 
Ferriacetatlosung,  955 
Ferrichinincitrat,  726 
Ferricitrat,  721 
Ferri cyanidum  ferrosum,  730 
Ferrihydrat-Pastillen,  1652 
Ferric  benzoate,  745 
chloride,  719 
citrate,  721 
ferrocyanide,  729 
hydrate,  hydroxide,  734 
with  magnesia,  737 
hypophosphite,  730 
nitrate,  964 
oxide,  735 
oxyhydrate,  735 
phosphate,  738 
soluble,  737 
pyrophosphate,  739 
soluble,  739 
salts,  744 
tannate,  745 
valerianate,  743 
Ferrinitrat,  963 
Ferrisulfatlosung,  966 
F erro-ammonium  citricum,  722 
Ferrobromid,  717 
Ferrocarbonat,  zucherhaltiges, 
717 

Ferrocyaneisen,  729 


1817 

Ferrocyanidum  ferricum,  729 
Ferroeyankalium,  1299 
Ferrocyanure  de  fer,  729 
de  potassium,  1299 
Ferroferrioxyd,  735 
Ferroferriphosphat,  738 
Ferrolaktat,  733 
Ferro-oxalat,  745 
Ferroso-ferric  oxide,  735 
phosphate,  738 

Ferro-tartrate  of  potassium,  725 
Ferrous  arsenate,  716 
bromide,  717 

carbonate,  saccharated,  717 
chloride,  721 
iodide,  732 
saccharated,  731 
. lactate,  733 
malate,  745 
nitrate,  964 
oxalate,  745 
salicylate,  745 
salts,  744 
sulphate,  740 
sulphide,  742 
dried,  exsiccated,  742 
granulated,  741 
Ferrugo,  735 
Ferrum,  744 
albuminatum,  959 
alcoholisatum,  751 
ammoniatum,  186 
ammonio-sulphuricum,  723 
arsenicicum,  716 
bromatum,  717 
borussicum,  729 
carbonicum  saccharatum,  717 
catalyticum,  958 
chloratum,  721 
citricum,  721 
ammoniatum,  722 
oxydatum,  721 
dialysatum,  958 
ferrocyanatum,  729 
hydricum,  735 
hydrogenio-reductum,  749 
hypophosphorosum,  730 
iodatum,  732 
saccharatum,  731 
lacticum,  733 

muriaticum  oxydatum,  719 
oxydulatum,  721 
ope  hydrogenii  paratum,  749 
oxalicum,  745 
oxydatum  fuscum,  735 
magneticum.  735 
saccharatum,  736 
peptonatum,  959 
phosphoricum,  738 
cum  natrio-citrico,  737 
porpliyrisatum,  751 
pulveratum,  751 
pyropliosphoricum  cum  sodio- 
citrico,  739 

redactum,  reductum,  749 
sesquichloratum,  719 
solutum,  957 
sulfuricum,  740 
crudum,  740 

oxydatum  ammoniatum,  723 
purum,  740 
siccum,  742 
tartaratum,  725 
tartaricum  ammoniatum,  724 
tartarisatum,  725 
valerianicum,  743 
vitriolatum  purum,  740 
zooticum,  729 
Ferula  alliacea,  295 
erubescens,  762 
fcetida,  295 


1818 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


Ferula — 
galbaniflua,  761 
gummosa,  762 
rubricaulis,  762 
Schair,  762 
Scorodosma,  295 
Sumbul,  1544 
tingitana,  179 
Ferulyl  sulphides,  296 
Festucse  caryophyllorum,  417 
Fetid  goosefoot,  447 
Fette,  1092 
Fetthenne,  1435 
Feuerschwamm,  759 
Feuilles  d’aconit,  117 
de  belladone,  327 
de  chataignier,  420 
de  coca,  502 
de  digitale,  580 
d’ eucalyptus,  626 
de  grande  cigue,  531 
de  Guimauve,  167 
de  marronier,  398 
de  mauve,  162 
de  polommier,  767 
de  stramoine,  1516 
Feve  de  Calabar,  1220 
de  marais,  713 
de  Saint-Ignace,  1086 
igasurique,  1086 
tonka,  1030 
Fever-bush,  932, 1318 
Feverfew,  215,  1198 
Fever-root,  1646 
Fevertwig,  429 
Feverwort,  1646 
Feves  du  Mexique,  1595 
pichurim,  1077 
Fibroin,  1510 
Fichtensprossen,  1586 
Fichtenwolle,  1586 
Fici,  Ficus,  751 
Ficus  bengalensis,  923 
Carica,  751 
elastica,  593 
indica,  593,  923 
passa,  751 
religiosa,  593,  923 
Tsjela,  923 
Fieberklee,  1035 
Fiel  de  bceuf,  714 
epaissi,  715 
purifie,  715 
Fig,  751 
Figue,  751 
de  Barbarie,  356 
Figwort,  1433 
Filbert,  545 
Fil  de  cuivre,  565 
Filix  mas,  301 
Filkea  suaveolens,  624 
Fingerhut-Aufguss,  870 
Extrakt,  667,  668 
Fingerhutkraut,  580 
Fingerhuttinktur,  1617 
Fingerkraut,  774 
Fir  wool,  1586 
Fireweed,  1122 
Fischkorner,  1226 
Fischleim,  860 
Fischleimgummi,  1420 
Fishberries,  1226 
Fishglue,  860 
Fistelkassie,  418 
Fivefinger,  774 
Fixed  oils,  1092 
Flachskraut,  938 
Flachslilie,  1216 
Flachssamen,  945 
Flag,  blue,  899,  900 
white,  900 


Flake  tragacanth,  1642 
Flambe,  899,  900 
Flavedo  aurantii,  311 
Flaxseed,  945 
meal,  945 
poultice,  424 
Fleaseed,  1257 
Fleawort,  876 
Flechstorchschnabel,  773 
Extrakt,  674 

Fleischextrakt,  Liebig’s,  656 
Fleischleimgummi,  1420 
Fleurs  d’ arnica,  289 
de  benjoin,  31 
de  Guimauve,  167 
de  muscade,  1003 
d’oranger,  313 
de  soufre,  1538 
de  tous  les  mois,  377 
Flieder,  1406 

Fliederblumen-Wasser,  265 
Fliedermus,  1407 
Fliegenholz,  1338 
Fliegenschwamm,  760 
Flohkraut,  876 
Flohsamen,  1257 
Flora  viridis  aeris,  560 
Flores  acacise,  8 
anthemidis,  215 
antimonii,  221 
arnicse,  289 
aurantii,  313 
benzoes,  31 
calcatrippse,  1513 
carthami,  415 
cassise,  501 
chamomillse,  1026 
romanse,  215 
vulgaris,  1026 
cinse,  1412 
consolidse,  1513 
regalis,  1513 
kosso,  570 
lavandulse,  932 
malvse  arborese,  168 
vulgaris,  168 
naphse,  313 
primulse,  1317 
rliceados,  1380 
rosse,  1385 

rosarum  incarnatarum,  1385 
rubrarum,  1385 
sambuci,  1406 
sulphuris,  1538 
loti,  1538 
tilise,  1601 
verbasci,  1694 
viridis  seris,  560 
zinci,  1726 
Flour,  713 

Flowers  of  antimony,  222 
arsenic,  23 
benzoin,  31 
camphor,  387 
lead,  1265 
sulphur,  1538 
Fluavil,  801 
Fliichtige  Oele,  1089 
Salbe,  939 

Fliichtiges  Laugensalz,  182 
Liniment,  939 
Fluid  extract,  635 
aconite,  648 

American  hellebore,  710 
veratrum,  710 
apocynum,  649 
arnica-root,  650 
aromatic,  651 
asclepias,  651 
aspidosperma,  651 
bael,  652 


Fluid  extract — 
belladonna-root,  653 
bitter  orange-peel,  652 
bittersweet,  668 
black  cohosh,  660 
blackberry-bark,  700 
blackhaw-bark,  711 
blood-root,  701 
blue  flag,  681 
boneset,  671 
brayera,  667 
broom,  703 
buchu,  654 
burdock,  684 
calamus,  654 
calendula,  377 
Calisaya-bark,  661 
calumba,  655 
Canadian  hemp,  649 
moonseed,  687 
capsicum,  656 
cascara  sagrada,  697 
castanea,  658 
chamomile,  649 
cheken,  1070 
chestnut-leaves,  658 
chimaphila,  659 
chirata,  659 
cimicifuga,  660 
cinchona,  660 
coca,  662 

colchicum-root,  seed,  663 
columbo,  654 
condurango,  665 
conium-seed,  666 
convallaria,  666 
cottonroot-bark,  677 
couch-grass,  708 
cramp-bark,  710 
cubeb,  666 
cusso,  667 
cypripedium,  667 
dandelion,  708 
digitalis,  668 
dulcamara,  668 
ergot,  669 
eriodictyon,  670 
erythroxylon,  662 
eucalyptus,  671 
eupatorium,  671 
frangula,  672 
gelsemium,  672 
gentian,  673 
geranium,  674 
ginger,  711 
glycyrrhiza,  676 
grindelia,  677 
guarana,  677 
hamamelis,  678 
hemlock-fruit,  666 
hydrastis,  677 
hyoscyamus,  680 
Indian  cannabis,  656 
ipecac,  680 
iris,  681 
jaborandi,  695 
kooso,  667 
krameria,  683 
lappa,  684 
leptandra,  684 
lily-of-the-valley,  666 
liquorice-root,  676 
lobelia,  685 
lupulin,  685 
male  fern,  1100 
mandrake,  696 
matico,  687 
may -apple,  675 
menispermum,  637 
mezereum,  688 
nux  vomica,  691 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


1819 


Fluid  extract — 
opium,  692 
pareira,  693 
phytolacca-root,  694 
pilocarpus,  695 
piscidia,  1251 
pleurisy-root,  651 
podophyllum,  696 
poke-root,  694 
prickly  ash,  711 
pumpkin-seed,  1201 
quassia,  697 
quebracho,  651 
red  pepper,  656 
Ehamnus  Purshianae,  697 
rhatany,  683 
rhubarb,  699 
rhus  aromatica,  1381 
glabra,  699 
rose,  700 
rubus,  700 
rumex,  700 
sanguinaria,  701 
sarsaparilla,  702 
compound,  702 
savine,  701 
scoparius,  703 
Scutellaria,  704 
senega,  704 
senna,  705 
serpentaria,  705 
skull-cap,  704 
spigelia,  705 
and  senna,  706 
squill,  703 
stillingia,  706 
stramonium,  707 
seed,  707 

sumach -berries,  699 
taraxacum,  708 
triticum,  708 
uva  ursi,  709 
valerian,  710 
vanilla,  1641 
veratrum  viride,  710 
Viburnum  Opulus,  710 
prunifolium,  711 
wild  cherry,  695 
xanthoxylum,  711 
yellow  cinchona-bark,  661 
dock,  700 
jasmine,  672 
pari  11a,  687 
yerba  santa,  670 
Fluid  extracts,  635 
magnesia,  970 
Fluorescein,  1371 
Fluorine,  67 
Fluorspar,  67 
Fluorwasserstoffsiiure,  67 
Fliissiger  storax,  1532 
Flux,  black  and  white,  1281 
Fly  agaric,  760 
fungus,  760 
stone,  293 
Fceniculum,  752 
capillaceum,  752 
dulce,  753 
officinale,  752 
vulgare,  752,  1122 
Foenum  graecum,  753 
Fcex  sacchari,  1597 
Foie  de  soufre,  1273 
calcaire,  384 
Folia  aconiti,  117 
althaeae,  168 
anthos,  1386 
aurantii,  311 
barosmae,  354 
belladonnae,  327 
bucco,  354 


Folia — 
buchu,  354 
castaneae,  420 
cocae,  502 
conii,  531 
digitalis,  580 
diosmae,  354 
farfarae,  1656 
gaultheriae,  767 
hyoscyami,  853 
I jaborandi,  1229 
juglandis,  905 
lauri,  931 
laurocerasi,  930 
malvae,  168 
maticae,  1024 
melissae,  1031 
menthae  crispae.  1034 
piperitae,  1032 
nicotianae,  1573 
roris  marini,  1386 
rosmarini,  1386 
rutae,  1388 
salviae,  1405 
sennae,  1438 
americanae,  1440 
stramonii,  1516 
tabaci,  1573 
taraxaci,  1580 
toxicodendri,  1382 
trifolii  fibrini,  1035 
tussilaginis,  1566 
uva  ursi,  1678 
verbasci,  1694 
Food,  chemical,  1561 
Fool’s  parsley,  531 
Foot  benzoin,  334 
Formamide,  1673 
Formatber,  132 
Formene  perchlore,  411 
Formica  rufa,  399 
Formosa  camphor,  387 
Formylum  tricbloratum,  461 
Forniti,  752 
Fougere  male,  301 
Four-o’clock,  903 
Fowler’s  solution,  979 
Foxglove-leaves,  580 
Fractional  percolation,  643 
Framboise,  1387 
Frambuesa,  1387 
Franciscea  uniflora,  754 
Francisceine,  754 
Frangula  alnus,  755 
californica,  caroliniana,  1375 
vulgaris,  755 
Frangulin,  756 
Frankincense,  1166,  1599 
common,  1585 
Franzbranntwein,  1508 
Franzosenholz,  796 
Frasera  caroliniensis,  773 
Walteri,  773 
Fraserawurzel,  773 
Frauendistel,  929 
Frauenliaar,  127 
Frauenminze,  1579 
Fraxin,  Fraxinin,  Fraxinit,  757, 
814,  1019 

Fraxinus  alba,  756 
americana,  756 
epiptera,  756 
excelsior,  756,  1019 
Ornus,  1017 
rotundifolia,  1017 
viridis,  757 
Freisamkraut,  1710 
French  berries,  1374 
chalk,  986, 1005 
digitalin,  582 
ground  pine,  1589 


French — 
lactucarium,  683 
lavender,  933 
marigold,  377 
saffron,  554 
wine,  1699 
Frene,  756 
epineux,  1715 
Fresco,  756 
Friar’s  balsam,  1609 
Friedrichshall  spring,  266 
Frijol,  714 
Froschloffel,  158 
Frostweed,  Frostwort,  807 
Fructus  anethi,  209 
anisi,  214 
stellati,  863 
vulgaris,  214 
apii,  1212 
aurantii,  310 
immaturi,  311 
be!®,  326 
canariense,  1213 
cannabis,  394 
capsici,  403 

cardamomi  minores,  412 
caricae,  751 
carotae,  414 
carui,  carvi,  415 
cassiae  fistulae,  418 
ceratoniae,  419 

chenopodii  anthelmintici,  446 
coccognidii,  1040 
coccoli,  1226 
colocynthidis,  523 
praeparati,  525 
conii,  531 
coriandri,  542 
cubebae,  556 
cumini,  559 
cymini,  559 
cynosbati,  1384 
dauci,  414 
ecbalii,  592 
fceniculi,  752 
gnidii,  1040 
juniperi,  906 
lappae,  928 
lauri,  931 
mezerei,  1040 
papaveris,  1191 
petroselini,  1212 
phellandrii,  1213 
phytolaccae,  1225 
rhamni  catharticae,  1374 
rosae  caninae,  1384 
rubi  idaei,  1387 
sabadillae,  1390 
silybi,  929 
tamarindorum,  1577 
vanillae,  1683 

Fruit  of  the  dog-rose,  1384 
Fruits  de  grande  cigue,  531 
de  plaqueminier,  587 
Fruit-sugar,  1028,  1396 
Fuchsine,  212 
Fuco  avejigado,  757 
carageo,  471 

Fucodium  nodosum,  758 
Fucus  amylaceus,  473 
crispus,  471 
digitatus,  927 
edulis,  472 

Helminthochorton,  473 
natans,  758 
nodosus,  758 
palmatus,  472 
serratus,  758 
siliquosus,  758 
vesiculosus,  757 
Fulmicoton  soluble,  1336 


1820 


Fulwa  butter,  1047,  1161 
Fumaria  officinalis,  758 
Fumarine,  759 
Fumeterre,  758 
Fumeterre  bulbeuse,  545 
Fumigatio  chlori,  383 
Fumitory,  758 
Fiinffingerkraut,  775 
Fungus  cbirurgorum,  759 
igniarius  prseparatus,  759 
muscarius,  760 
Funiculo  pressa,  1510 
Fusain,  629 
Fuselol,  156 

Fusible  white  precipitate,  847 
Fusiform  jalap,  903 
Fussblattwurzel,  1267 
Fusti,  417 

P ADUIN,  1133 
VT  Gadus  seglifinus,  1132 
Callarius,  1133 
carbonarius,  1133 
Merlangus,  1133 
Merluccius,  860,  1132 
Molva,  1133 
Morrhua,  1132 
Pollachius,  1132 
Gagel,  1065 

Galactodendron  utile,  752 
Galam  butter,  1162 
gum,  7 
Galanga;  761 
Galangal,  Galangin,  761 
Galban,  761 
Galbanum,  761 
Pillen,  1244 
Galbuli  juniperi,  906 
Gale  odorant,  1065 
Galega  apollinea,  1441 
officinalis,  763 
Virginian  a,  1583 
Galena,  1266 
Galeopside,  934 
Galeopsis  grandiflora,  934 
ochroleuca,  934 
tetrakit,  934 
Galgant,  761 
Galipea  Cusparia,  210 
febrifuga,  210 
officinalis,  210 
Galitzenstein,  1729 
Galium  spec.,  763 
Gall  of  the  earth,  1317 
Galla,  764 
halapense,  764 
levantica,  764 
quercina,  764 
tinctoria,  764 
turcica,  764 

Gallacetophenone,  1335 
Gallactoplienone,  1335 
Gallse,  764 
Gallait,  763 
Gallapfel,  Gallen,  764 
Gallapfelsalbe,  1663 
Gallapfeltinktur,  1620 
Galle  de  chene,  764 
Gallipot,  1586 
Gallon,  765 
Galls,  764 

Gallus  Bankiva,  147,  1713 
Gallussaure,  54 
Glycerit,  782 
Gamander,  1588 

Gamberini’s  basic  mercuric  phe- 
nate,  842 
Gambia  kino,  911 
Gambier,  427 
Gambir  catechu,  427 
cubique,  427 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


Gamboge,  385 
cake,  386 
Gambogia,  385 
Ganja,  393 
Ganserich,  774 
Garance,  763 
Garcinia  Gutta,  385 
cambogioides,  385 
Hanburii,  385 
indica,  766 
Kola,  766 
Kydia,  766 
Mangostana,  766 
Morelia,  385 
pedunculata,  766 
pictoria,  385 
purpurea,  766 
Garden  cress,  514 
nasturtium,  514 
opine,  1435 
radish,  1447 
sage,  1405 
spurge,  568 
thyme,  859 

Gardenia  campanulata,  896 
florida,  556 
grandiflora,  556 
gummifera,  597 
lucida,  597 
radicans,  556 
Garlic,  159 
Garofani,  416 
Garou,  1039  i ' ; ' 
sanbois,  1039  ' * 

Gartenbohne,  714  ) * 

Gartenkresse,  514 
Gartenraute,  1388 
Gartenschierling,  531 
Gas,  carbonic  acid,  47 
hydrochloric  acid,  61 
Gas  lime,  1471 
Gasolene,  1210 

Gasometric  estimations,  U.  S 
1752 

Gastein  spring,  269 
Gasteria  Lingua,  161 
Gastric  juice,  1204 
Gatinais  saffron,  554 
Gauchheil,  1318 
Gaude,  403 
Gaultheria,  767 
humilis,  767 
procumbens,  767,  1123 
Gaultherilene,  1124 
Gaultherin,  338 
Gaultiera  repens,  767 
Gauza,  393 
Gauze,  carbolated,  40 
Gayac,  796 
Gedda  gum,  6 

Gegengift  des  Arseniks,  737 
Geigenharz,  1364 
Geisraute,  763 
Geissospermum  lseve,  1096 
Geiste,  1494 
Gekochte  Oele,  1141 
Gekochtes  Bomisch-Kamillenol 
216 

Gelatin,  767 
capsules,  768 

discs,  medicated,  768,  927 
Gelatina,  767 
carrageen,  473 
de  fuco-crispo,  473 
lichenis  islandic?e,  441 
sicca, #441 
Gelbbeercn,  1374 
Gelbe  Narcisse,  1076 
Rube,  414 

Gelbes  Lungenkraut,  813 
Gelbfrauensckuli-Extrakt,  667 


Gelbfrauenschuhwurzel,  573 
Gelbkraut,  403 
Gelbwurz,  568 
Gelee  seche  de  lichen,  441 
Gelidium,  473 
Gelsemien-Extrakt,  672 
Gelsemine,  769 
Gelsemium,  769 
lucidum,  769 
nitidum,  769 
semper virens,  769 
Gelsemiumtinktur,  1621 
Gemmae  pini,  1586 
Genciana,  771 
Genepi  blanc,  17 
Genet  a balais,  1431 
Genievre,  906 
Genista  junceum,  1432 
Scoparia,  1431 
Genouillet,  535 
Gentian,  Gentiane,  771 
blue,  773 
root,  771 
Gentiana,  771 
Andrewsii,  773 
Catesbaei,  773 
Centaurium,  1391 
Chirayta,  451 
Elliottii,  773 
fimbriata,  773 
lutea,  771, 1712 
pannonica,  772 
puberula,  773 
punctata,  772 
pupurea,  772 
Saponaria,  773 
Gentianin,  Gentisin,  772 
Gentiogenin,  Gentianose,  772 
Gentiopicrin,  772,  773 
Geoffree,  208 
Geoffroya  inermis,  208 
retusa,  208 
vermifuga,  208 
Georgia  bark,  488 
pink,  1492 
Geranium,  773 
cicutarium,  774 
m&culatum,  773 
Robertianum,  774 
Geratac&ca,  754 
Gerberstrauch,  543 
Gerbsaure,  106 
German  chamomile,  1026 
digitalin,  582 
fennel,  753 
pellitory,  1333 
sarsaparilla,  1425 
silver,  565 
vinegar  process,  12 
Germander,  1588 
Germandree,  1588 
maritime,  1588 
Gerofle,  416 
Gerstenmalz,  1013 
Gerstenschleim,  _ 578 
Gettysburg  spring,  266 
Geum  japonicum,  776 
rivale,  urbanum,  776 
Gewiirz,  englisches,  1247 
Gewiirz-Extrakt,  651 
Gewiirzhafte  Essigsaure,  20 
Gewiirzlatwerge,  1327 
Gewiirznelken,  416 
Infusion,  868 
Gewiirzpulver,  1327 
Gkacrille,  417 
Giant  powder,  1504 
Gibbsite,  173 
Gichtpapier,  442 
Gichtrose,  908,  1188 
Gicktriibe,  353 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


1821 


Giftjasmin,  769 
Giftlattich,  925 
Giftlattich-Extrakt,  683 
Giftlatticlisaft,  925 
Giftspmach,  1382 
Giftwende,  299 
Giftwurzel,  534 
Gigartina  acicula  ris,  472 
Helminthochortos,  473 
mamillosa,  471 
pistillata,  472 
Gilbwurzel-Glycerit,  785 
Gilleuia  stipulacea,  776 
trifoliata,  776 
Gillenin,  777 
Gillon,  1712 
Gin,  148,  1505 
Gingembre,  1735 
Ginger,  1735 
Ginseng,  275 
Girofle,  416 
Glaciale,  357 
Glaeialin,  34 
Gla'ieul  bleu,  899 
Gland  ul®  lupuli,  999 
rottler®,  909 

Glasige  Phosphorsaure,  83 
Glaskraut,  1198 
Glass,  antimonial,  222 
soluble,  985 
Glauber’s  salt,  1493 
Glaucine,  445 

Glaucium  corniculatum,  445 
luteum,  445 
Glaucopicrine,  445 
Glechoma  liederacea,  777 
Gliadin,  713 

Globulario  Alypum,  1441 
Globulin,  657 
Glonoin,  779,  1504 
Gloria,  590 
Glouteron,  928 
Glucose,  1396 
Glucusimide,  1393 
Glue,  767 

Glusidum,  Gluside,  1393 
Gluten,  Glutin,  713,  768,  860 
casein,  713 
fibrin,  713 
Glutinum,  767 
Glycamyl,  783 
Glycelseura,  783 
Glycerata,  Glycerita,  782 
Glycerats,  Glyceres,  782 
Glycere  d’extrait  de  belladone, 
784 

Glycerin,  778 
stuhlzapfchen,  1549 
suppositories,  1549 
Glycerina,  778,  782 
Glycerins,  782 
Glycerinum,  778 
acidi  carbolici,  782 
gallici,  782 
tannici,  783 
aluminis,  783 
amyli,  783 
belladonn®,  784 
boracis,  784 
plumbi  saponatis,  785 
subacetatis,  785 
tragacanth®,  785 
Glycerita,  780,  782 
Glycerite  of  alum,  783 
of  belladonna,  784 
of  bismuth  nitrate,  344 
of  borax,  784 
of  boroglycerin,  784 
of  carbolic  acid,  782 
of  gallic  acid,  782 
of  glyceryl  borate,  784 


Glycerite — 
of  hydrastis,  785 
of  lead  subacetate,  785 
of  pepsin,  1205 
of  soap,  785 
of  starch,  783 
of  tannic  acid,  783 
of  tar,  1255 
of  tragacanth,  785 
of  yolk  of  egg,  786 
Glycerites,  782 

Glyceritum  acidi  carbolici,  782 
gallici,  782 
tannici,  783 
aconiti,  120 
aluminis,  783 
amyli,  783 
belladonna,  784 
boracis,  784 
boroglycerini,  784 
hydrastis,  785 
pepsini,  1205 
picis  liquid®,  1255 
plumbi  subacetatis,  785 
saponis,  785 
sodii  boratis,  784 
tragacanth®,  785 
vitelli,  786 
Glycerol,  779 

Glycerolata,  Glyceroles,  782- 
Glyceryl  borate,  784 
Glycocoll,  Glycin,  715,  768 
Glycocollparaphenetidine  hydro- 
chloride, 1215 
Glyconin,  Glyconinum,  786 
Glycyramarin,  787 
Glycyrretin,  787 
Glycyrrhiza,  786 
glabra,  674,  786 
glaudulifera,  hirsuta,  786 
Glycyrrhizin,  787,  905,  1047 
Glycyrrhizinum  ammoniacale,788 
ammoniatum,  788 
Glyoxylin,  1505 
Gnadenkraut,  794 
Gnaphalium  arenarium,  789 
dioicum,  789 
margaritaceum,  789 
polycephalum,  789 
Gnoscopiue,  1172 
Goa  powder,  473 
Goat’s  beard,  1494 
rue,  763,  1583 
Godfrey’s  cordial,  1632 
Gold,  314 

ammonium  chloride,  314 
and  sodium  chloride,  313 
chloride,  314 
cyanide,  314 
hydroxide,  314 
iodide,  314 
leaf,  314 
litharge,  1265 
mosaic,  1511 
powdered,  314 
Golden  chain,  914 
rod,  1489 
seal,  849 
sulphur,  225 
Goldglatte,  1265 
Goldregen,  914 
Goldruthe,  1489 
Goldschwefel,  225 
Goldthread,  541 
Goma  arabiga,  5 
elastica,  593 
laca,  923  * 

quino,  911 
tragacanta,  1642 
Gombo,  168 

Gomma  ammoniaco,  178 


Gomma  arabica,  5 
Gomme  acajou,  1643 
adragante,  1642 
arabique,  5 
du  bas  du  fleuve,  7 
gutte,  385 
lacque,  923 

resine  ammoniaque,  178 
d’euphorbe,  633 

Gonolobus  Cundurango,  526,  527 
tetragonus,  527 
Good  King  Henry,  447 
Goontch,  1 
Goose-grass,  775 
Gossypii  radicis  cortex,  789 
Gossypium,  790 
depuratum,  790 
herbaceum,  1125 
purificatum,  790 
spec.,  789,  790 
Gotterbaum,  146 
Gottesgnadenkraut.  794 
Goudron,  1143,  1254 
vegetal,  1254 
Gouet  a trois  feuilles,  294 
Goulard’s  cerate,  435 
extract,  973 
lead-water,  975 
Gourd,  524,  559 
Gourd  towel,  1510 
Gouttes,  1042 

Gowland’s  cosmetic  lotion,  969 
Gracilaria  lichenoides,  473 
Graine  de  muse,  168 
Graines  d’ Avignon,  1374 
de  garou,  1040 
de  puces,  1257 
de  stramoine,  1516 
de  Tilly,  1163 
Grain-lac,  923 
Grains  of  paradise,  1737 
Graisse  balsamique,  124 
de  pore,  123 

des  pieds  du  gros  betail,  1114 
Grama,  1647 
Grana  coccognidii,  1040 
gnidii,  1040 
mezerei,  1040 
moschata,  168 
paradisi,  1737 
sylvestra,  512 
tiglii,  1163 

Granadille,  Granadita,  1199 
Granatenschalen,  793 
Granatill,  1163 

Granatin,  Grauato-mannit,  792 
Granatrinde,  792 
Granatum,  792 

Granat  - Wurzel  - Rinden  - Absud, 
577 

Grand  boucage,  936 
soleil,  807 
Grande  absinthe,  3 
aunee,  875 
cigue,  530 
digitale,  580 
Grille  spring,  266 
mauve,  168 
Grandille,  1199 
Granilla,  512 
Grano  speronato,  615 
Granulated  ferrous  sulphate,  581 
Granulation,  1324 
Granules,  1234 
Granulose,  202 
Granza,  763 
Grape-lac,  923 
Grape-sugar,  1028,  1396 
Graphite,  408 
Grassette,  1435 
Grasso  con  benzoino,  124 


1822 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


Grasso  suino,  123 
Graswurzel,  1647 
Grateron,  763 
Gratiola  officinalis,  794 
Gratiole,  794 

Gratiolin,  Gratioletin,  Gratio- 
losin,  794 
Gratte-cul,  1384 
Graue  Ambra,  177 
Gravel-plant,  1679 
Greek  figs,  752 
Green  ash,  757 
hellebore,  809,  1692 
tea,  1592 
veratrum,  1692 
vitriol,  740 

Greenheart-bark,  1077 
Greenockite,  359 
Gregory’s  powder,  1332 
Grenache  wine,  1699 
Grenadier,  792 
Greiswurz,  1196 
Grieswurzel-Absud,  578 
Griffis  de  girofle,  417 
Griffith’s  mixture,  1043 
Pillen,  1242 
Grindelia,  795 
glutinosa,  795 
hirsutula,  795 
robusta,  795 
squarrosa,  795 
Grindelien,  795 
Grindelienextrakt,  677 
Grinding,  1324 
Grindwurz,  1388 
Grindwurz-extrakt,  700 
Groats,  316 
Grossi,  752 

Grosskarben  spring,  267 
Ground  ivy,  777 
laurel,  1679 
pine,  1589 
Grime  Minze,  1033 
Seife,  1418 

Griiner  Germer,  1692 
Vitriol,  740 

Griingermer-Extrakt,  710 
Griin-Niesswurztinktur,  1641 
Griinspan,  561 
gereinigter,  560 
Guaco,  632 
Guaiac,  796 

Guaiacene,  Guaiene,  797 
Guaiaci  lignum,  796 
Guaiacol,  547,  798 
benzoate,  799 
carbonate,  799 
cinnamate,  799 
di-iodide,  799 
salicylate,  799 
salol,  799 
Guaiacolum,  798 
Guajacum,  796 
angustifolium,  796 
officinale,  796 
resin,  796 
sanctum,  796 
wood,  796 

Guajak-Emulsion,  612 
Guajakharz,  796 
Guajakholz,  796 
Guajaktinktur,  1621 
ammoniakalische,  1622 
Guanine,  800 
Guano,  800 
Guarana,  800 
Guarana-Extrakt,  677 
Guarani ne,  361,  800 
Guarea,  317 
Guava,  1070 
Guayaco,  796 


Guequiri,  1 
Guerit-tout,  520 
Gui  de  chene,  1712 
Guilandina  Bonducella,  1154 
Moringa,  1154 
Guimauve,  167 
Guinea  grains,  1737 
pepper,  404 

Guizotia  oleifera,  1130 
Gulf- weed,  758 
Gum  acacia,  5 
arabic,  5,  6 
varieties,  7 
bassora,  1643 
benjamin,  334 
butea,  911 
cashew,  1643 
cherry,  1643 
Galam,  7 
ivy,  1183 
Kutera,  1643 
maguey,  145 
Mogador,  5 
nuts,  1086 
plant,  795 
Tor,  6 
wax,  946 

Gummi  arabicum,  5 
elasticum,  593 
elemi,  596 
guttse,  385 
kino,  911 
mimosse,  5 
plasticum,  593 
tragacantha,  1642 
Gummigutt,  385 
Gummilack,  923 
Gummipaste,  8 
Gummipflaster,  602 
Gummi-resina  ammoniacum,  178 
asafcetida,  295 
galbanum,  761 
guttse,  385 
hederse,  1183 
myrrha,  1067 
olibanum,  1166 
plasticum,  801 
tragacantha,  1642 
Gummisirup,  1553 
Gun-cotton,  1336 
Gundelrebe,  777 
Gun-metal,  1511 
Gundermann,  777 
Gunja,  1 
Gunjah,  393 
Giinsel,  1589 
Gunny,  1602 
Gurginja,  1 
Gurjun  balsam,  538 
Gurke,  558 
Guru-nut,  362,  366 
Guter  Heinrich,  447 
Gutta  gamba,  385 
percha,  801 
depurata,  801 
paper,  802 
putik,  802 
rambong,  802 
singgarip,  802 
soosoo,  802 
sundek,  802 
taban,  801 
Guttse,  1042 
Gutte,  Gutti,  385 
Gymnadaenia  conopsea,  1399 
Gymnema  sylvestre,  811 
tingens,  §65 

Gynandropsis  pentaphylla,  403 
Gynocardia  odorata,  802 
Gyps,  376 

Gypsophila  Struthium,  1419 


Gypsum,  376 
dried,  375 
powdered,  553 
Gyromia  virginica,  1027 

HABA,  713 

de  Calabar,  1220 
tonka,  1030 

Habenaria  bifolia,  1399 
Habichtskraut,  812 
Haddock,  1132 
Hsematein,  Haematin,  804 
ammonia,  804 
Haematoxylon,  678,  804 
campechianum,  804 
Hafermehl,  316 
Hagebutten,  1384 
Hagenia  abyssinica,  570 
Hahnenfuss,  1364 
Haileberthran,  1134 
Hainbutte,  1384 
Hainbutten-Conserve,  529 
Hake,  860,  1132 
Halicore  Dugong,  1134 
Halidrys  siliquosa,  758 
Halymenia  edulis,  472 
palmata,  472 
Hamamelis,  804 
virginica,  804 
Hamamelisextrakt,  678 
Hamamelisrindentinktur,  805 
Hammeltalg,  1444 
Hancornia  speciosa,  593 
Hanf,  393 
Hanfnessel,  934 
Hanfsamen,  394 
Hanfwurzel  Canadische,  233 
Hanfwurzelextrakt,  649 
Haplopappus  discoideus,  574 
Haricot,  714 
Hardhack,  1493 
Hardwickia  pinnata,  538 
Harina  de  trijo,  713 
Harnkraut,  403,  447,  1365 
Harnstoff,  1673 
Harpalyce  alba,  813,  1317 
Harrowgate  spring,  266 
Hartheu,  857 
Hart’s  truffle,  1000 
Harzsalbe,  436 
Hasel,  545 
Haselwurzel,  297 
Hasenklee,  1185 
Hashab,  5,  6 
Hashiscin,  394 
Hashish,  394 
Hauhechel,  787 
Hauptpflaster,  604 
Hausenblase,  860 
Hausseife,  1418 
Haustus,  1042 
Haw,  1491 
black,  1696 
Hawkweed,  812 
Hay-saffron,  554 
Hazel,  545 
Head  benzoin,  334 
Heal-all,  520,  1434 
Heart’s-ease,  1710 
Heavy  spar,  324 
Heberden’s  ink,  1043 
Hebradendron  cambogioides,  385 
Hebra’s  iodine  caustic,  970 
ointment,  1663 
Seifenspiritus,  943 
Hectographs,  768 
Hedeoma,  806 
piperita,  1033 
pulegioides,  806,  1126 
thymoides,  806 
Hedera  Helix,  1183 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


1823 


Hederich,  513 
Hedge  hyssop,  794 
garlic,  513 
mustard,  513 
nettle,  934 

Hedysarum  gangeticuin,  899 
Hefenumschlag,  423 
Heftpflaster,  607 
Helenenwurzel,  875 
Helenin,  876 

Helenium  autumnale,  806 
parviflorum,  807 
tenuifolium,  807 
Helianthe,  807 

Helianthemum  canadense,  807 
corymbosum,  807 
vulgare,  807 
Heliauthus  annuus,  807 
tuberosus,  808 

Helichrysum  arenarium,  789 
Helicin,  Helicoidin,  1400 
Heliotropin,  1251 
Helleborein,  Helleborin,  809 
Helleboresin,  809 
Helleborus  niger,  808 
trifolius,  541 
viridis,  809 

Helmerich’s  Salbe,  1671 
Helminthochorton,  473 
Helmkraut,  1434 
Helmkraut-Extrakt,  704 
Helmwurzel,  545 
Helonias  dioica,  442 
lutea,  442 
officinalis,  1390 
Helonin,  442 
Hematite,  735,  744 
Hemidesmus  indicus,  810 
root,  810 

Hemidesmussirup,  1562 
Hemlock,  530 
bark,  930 
fruit,  531 
leaves,  531 
pitch,  1253 
poison,  530 
poultice,  423 
spotted,  530 
spruce,  1253 
Hemp,  393 
nettle,  934 
New  Zealand,  1216 
seed,  394 
Henbane,  853 
seed,  853 

Hepar  antimonii,  222 
calcis,  384 
sulphuris,  1273 
calcareum,  384 
Hepatic  aloes,  161,  163 
Hepatica  acutiloba,  811 
americana,  811 
nobilis,  811 
triloba,  811 
Heptane,  333,  1158 
Heptilene,  1193 
Heracleum  lanatum,  812 
spondilium,  812 
Herb  mastich,  1588 
Robert,  774 
Herba  absinthii,  3 
aconiti,  117 
agrimonise,  145 
belladonnse,  327 
botryos  mexicanpe,  447 
calcatrippse,  1513 
cannabis  indicse,  393 
capillorum  veneris,  127 
cardui  benedicti,  413 
catarise,  424 
centaurii,  1391 


Herba — 

chamomillse  fcetidse,  546 
chelidonii,  445 
cicutse  majoris,  531 
cochlearise,  512 
conii,  531 
consolidae,  1513 
regalis,  1513 
eupatorii  perfoliati,  631 
flammulse  Jovis,  501 
galeopsidis,  934 
gratiolse,  794 
hedene  terrestris,  777 
hyoscyami,  853 
jaceae,  1710 
lactucae,  925 
virosae,  925 
linariae,  938 
lobeliae,  995 
majoranae,  1184 
malvae,  168 
mari  veri,  1588 
marrubii,  1020 
aquatici,  1002 
matricariae,  1199 
meliloti,  1030 
melissae,  1031 
menthae  acutae,  1033 
crispae,  1033 
piperitae,  1032 
romanae,  1033 
millefolii,  16 
nasturtii  pratensis,  533 
nepetae,  424 
polygalae,  1269 
rorellae,  589 
rutae,  1388 
caprariae,  763 
sabinae,  1391 
salicariae,  1003 
salviae,  1405 
scoparii,  1431 
scordii,  1589 
serpylli,  859 
spilanthis,  1334 
stramonii,  1516 
thymi,  859 
trifolii  fibrini,  1035 
violae  tricoloris,  1710 
virgaureae,  1490 
Herbe  a eternuer,  17 
a fievre,  631 
a gueux,  502 
a la  ouate,  298 
a l’hirondelle,  445 
au  citron,  1031 
au  scorbut,  512 
aux  chantres,  513 
aux  charpentiers,  16 
aux  chats,  424 
aux  cure-dents,  477 
aux  vers,  1578 
d’eupatoire  perfoliee,  631 
de  hepatique,  811 
de  maroute,  546 
de  pyrole  ombellee,  447 
de  St.  Barbe,  513 
jaune,  403 
parfaite,  631 
Herbs,  aromatic,  1033 
Herbstzeitlose,  516 
Hercules’  club,  274,  1716 
Herlitze,  544 
Hermodactyls,  517 
Herpestes  gratioloides,  1230 
Herrania  albiflora,  1596 
Herzgespann,  933 
Hesperidin,  Hesperetin,  311,  312 
Heuchera,  Heuchere,  812 
Heuchera  americana,  812 
villosa,  812 


[ Heudelotia  africana,  1069 
Hevea  brasiliensis,  593 
discolor,  593 
guianensis,  593 
Hexane,  333 
Hexchlorethane,  411 
Hexenmehl,  1001 
Hexylene,  1365 
Hibiscus  spec.,  168 
Hickory-nut,  905 
Hidrocotila,  851 
Hieble,  1407 
Hiel  de  tierra,  758 
toro,  714 
Hiera  picra,  165 
Hieracium  spec.,  812,  813 
High  mallow,  168 
Higo,  751 
Himbeeren,  1387 
Himbeeressig,  1569 
Himbeersaft,  1568 
Himbeerwasser,  1569 
Hing,  Hingra,  295 
Hippo,  Carolina,  632 
Indian,  776 

Hippocastanum  vulgare,  813 
Hippomane  Mancinella,  819 
Hips,  1384 
Hircin,  1444 
Hirschbrunst,  1000 
Hirschhornsalz,  182 
Hirtentaschlein,  513 
Hirudines,  814 
Hirudo,  814 
decora,  815 
medicinalis,  815 
provincialis,  815 
Hirundinaria,  299 
Hirundo  esculenta,  473 
Hissopo,  858 
Hoarhound,  1020 
Hoary  pea,  1583 
Hock,  1699 

Hoffmann’s  anodyne,  1495 
Hoffman  stropfen,  1495 
Hog  gum,  7 
Hogg  gum,  7 
Hog’s  lard,  123 
Hogweed,  178 
Holilwurzel,  545 
Hohlzahn,  934 
Hojas  al  San  Pedro,  1040 
del  estramonio,  1516 
Holarrhena  antidysenterica,  167 
Holcus  saccharatus,  1394 
Hollenstein,  281 
salpeterhaltiger,  280 
Hollunder,  1406 
Hollunderbliithen-Wasser,  265 
Holly,  861 
Hollyhock,  168 
Holzather,  132 
Holzessig,  18 
saure,  18 
Holzgeist,  157 
Holzkohle,  407 
Holzthee,  796 
Holztinktur,  1587 
Homatropine  hydrobromate,  310 
Homberg’s  pyrophorus,  170 
Hombrecilles,  818 
Homburg  spring,  268 
Homocinchonicine,  489 
Homocinclionidine,  489,  494 
[ Homocinchonine,  489 
Homoquinine,  489,  1352 
Honduras  bark,  1339 
sarsaparilla,  1423 
Honey,  1027 
borax,  1029 
clarified,  1029 


1824 


Honey — 
dew  of  rye,  615 
of  rose,  1029 
of  sodium  borate,  1029 
Honeys,  medicated,  1029 
Honig,  1027 
Hood  wort,  1434 
Hopfen,  818 
Aufguss,  872 
Hopfenbaum,  1321 
Hopfenbittersaure,  999 
Hopfenextrakt,  685 
Ilopfenmehl,  999 
Hopfentinktur,  1622 
Hops,  818 
Hop  tree,  1321 
Hordeine,  817 
Hordeum  decorticatum,  817 
distichon,  817,  1013 
hexastichon,  817 
perlatum,  817 
vulgare,  817 
Horehound,  1020 
Hormiscium  cerevisise,  437 
Horn  poppy,  445 
Hornbaumrinde,  543 
Hornkiimmel,  1513 
Hornmohn,  445 
Horny  wheat,  713 
Horse  aloes,  163 
Horsebalm,  520 
Horse  bean,  713 
cassia,  419 
chestnut,  813 
gentian,  1646 
Horsemint,  859,  1045 
Horseradish-root,  288 
Horsetail,  615 
Hot  springs,  268,  269 
Houblon,  818 
Hound’s  tongue,  349 
Houseleek,  1435 
Houx,  861 
Hueso,  1184 
Huflattig,  1656 

Huile  auimale  de  Dippel,  1109 
camphree,  940 
colza,  1447 

d’amandes  douces,  1107 
d’antimoine  liquide,  949 
de  bouleau,  1255 
de  camomille,  216 
de  camphre,  388 
d’enfer,  1139 
d’ether,  1103 
de  foie  de  morue,  1132 
de  fougere  male,  1100 
de  grain,  156 
de  graisse,  1103 
de  thyme,  1162 
de  vin  pesante,  1103 
de  vitriol,  97 

des  pieds  du  gros  betail,  1114 
du  gas  olefiant,  139 
mineral,  1209 
navette,  1447 
ceillette,  1192 
oeuf,  1714 
phosphoree,  1142 
raisin,  1130J 
russe,  1255 
vierge,  1139 
volatile  ethere,  1103 
Huiles  distillees,  1089 
essentielles,  1089 
etherees,  1089 
fixes,  1092 
grasses,  1092 
medicinales,  1141 
volatiles,  1089 
Huisache,  8 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


Hulsas  de  Xibia,  553 
Humin,  646 
Humulus,  818 
Lupulus,  591,  818,  999 
Hundred-leaved  rose,  1385 
Hundskamillen,  546 
Hundspetersilie,  531 
j Hundszunge,  349 
I Hungarian  turpentine,  1586 
valonia,  765 
I Hungerkorn,  615 
i Huntsman’s  cup,  1420 
Huuyadi  Janos,  267 
Hura  brasiliensis,  819 
crepitans,  819 
Hurin,  819 

Huxham’s  tincture  of  bark, 
Hydnocarpus  odorata,  802 
venenata,  803 
Wightiana,  803 
Hydracetin,  1215,  1216 
Hydrangea  arborescens,  820 
Hydrargyri  ammonio-chloridum, 
846 

bichloridum,  820 
chloridum,  825 
corrosivum,  820 
mite,  825 

prsecipitatione  paratum,  826 
cyanidum,  831 
elainicum,  1098 
iodidum  flavum,  832 
rubrum,  833 
viride,  832 
nitrico-oxidum,  837 
oxidum  flavum,  836 
rubrum,  837 
perchloridum,  820 
persulphas,  839 
proto-ioduretum,  832 
proto-nitras,  968 
subchloridum,  825 
subsulphas  flavus,  838 
sulphas,  839 
flava,  838 

sulphidum  rubrum,  839 
sulphuretum  rubrum,  839 
nigrum,  840 
Hydrargyrum,  840 
amidato-bichloratum,  846 
ammoniato-muriaticum,  846 
ammoniatum,  846 
bichloratum  carbamidatum 
solutum,  842 
corrosivum,  820 
biiodatum,  833 
borussicum,  831 
chloratum  mite,  825 

vapore  paratum,  826 
dulce,  825 

corrosivum  sublimatum,  820 
cum  creta,  847 
cyanatum,  831 
depuratum,  841 
formamidatum,  1673 
solutum,  842 
iodatum  flavum,  832 
muriaticum  corrosivum,  820 
dulce,  825 

pleicum,  oleinicum,  1098 
oxydatum,  837 
flavum,  836 
nitricum  solutum,  967 
prsecipitatum,  836 
rubrum,  837 
solutum,  968 
via  humida  paratum,  836 
oxydulatum  solutum,  968 
peptonatum  solutum,  842 
phenyl icum,  842 
prsecipitatum  album,  846 


Hydrargyrum — 
purificatum,  841 
salicylas,  842 
sulfuratum  rubrum,  839 
sulphuricum,  839 
flavum,  838 

tannicum  oxydulatum,  842 
vivum,  840 
Hydras  ferricus,  734 
Hydrastine,  849 

Hydrastininse  hydrocliloras,  848 
Hydrastinine,  849 
hydrochlorate,  848 
Hydrastis,  849 
t canadensis,  336,  554,  849 
Hydrastisextrakt,  679 
Hydrastistinktur,  1623 
Hydrate  d’alumine,  173 
d’amylene,  200 
de  baryte,  324 
de  chloral,  452 
butylique,  459 

de  peroxyde  de  fer  gelatineux, 
734 

de  sesquioxide  de  fer,  735 
ferrique,  735 
Hydroapoatropine,  306 
Hydrobromsaure,  57 
Hydrobryoretin,  353 
Hydrocarbonas  zincicus,  1721 
Hydrocarbonate  de  zinc,  1721 
Hydrocarotin,  415 
Hydrocoerulignone,  18 
Hydrochinone,  1371 
Hydrochloras  morpliicus,  1057 
Hydrochrysamide,  164 
Hydrocinchonidine,  489 
Hydrocinchonine,  497 
Hydroconchinine,  489,  496 
Hydrocotarnine,  1172 
Hydrocotoin,  1078 
Hydrocotyle  spec.,  851 
Hydroelaterin,  593 
Hydrogen  fluoride,  67 
gold  chloride,  314 
sulphide,  743 
Hydrokinone,  1371 
Hydrolat  de  fleur  d’orange,  254 
simple,  260 
Hydrol^ts,  246 
Hydronaphtol,  1074 
Hydroquinidine,  Hydroquinine, 
489 

Hydroquinol,  1371 
Hydroquinone,  1371 
Hydroxylamine  hydrochloride, 
475 

Hygrine,  503 
Hymensea  Courbaril,  1587 
Hyoscinse  hydrobromas,  851 
Hyoscine,  851,  854 
hydrobromate,  851 
Hyoscinum  hydrobromicum,  851 
Hyoscyaminse  hydrobromas,  855 
sulphas,  852 
Hyoscyamine,  854 
hydromate,  852 
sulphate,  852 

Hyoscyaminflm  hydrobromas,  852 
sulfuricum,  852 
Hyoscyamus,  853 
agrestis,  853 
albus,  aureus,  853 
niger,  pallidus,  853 
pliysaloides,  853 
Scopolia,  328 
seed,  853 

Hyoscypicrin,  854 
Hypericon,  857 
Hypericum  species,  857,  858 
Hypermanganas  kalicus,  1510 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


1825 


Hypnal,  455,  459 
Hypnone,  11,  12 

Hypodermic  injection  of  mor- 
phine, 875 
of  apomorpliine,  875 
of  ergotin,  875 
Hypophosphis  calcicus,  372 
ferricus,  730 
kalicus,  1300 
potassicus,  1300 
sodicus,  1469 

Hypophosphite  de  chaux,  372 
de  fer,  730 
de  potasse,  1300 
de  soude,  1469 
Hypophosphitesyrup,  1562 
Hypoquebrachine,  303 
Hyposulphis  sodicus,  1470 
Hyposulphite  de  soude,  1470 
Hyraceum,  1060 
Hyrax  capensis,  1060 
Hyssop,  858 
Hyssopin,  858 
Hyssopus  officinalis,  858 
Hysterionica  Baylahuen,  796 

TBERISKRESSE,  514 
JL  Iceland  moss,  440 
jelly,  441 
Ice-plant,  357 
Ichthyocolla,  860 
Ichthyol,  860,  1209 
Ichthyolum,  860 
Icica  abilo,  596 
Caranna,  1587 
heptaphylla,  1587 
Icicariba,  596 
Tacamabaca,  1587 
Ictodes  foetidus,  588 
Idaho  Springs,  269 
If  commun,  1582 
Igasurine,  1086 
Igname,  587 
Ignatia,  1086 
amara,  1086 

Ignatiana  philippinica,  1086 
Ignazbohnen,  1086 
Ikaju,  1086 

Ilex  aquifolium,  861,  1712 
Cassine,  862 
Dahoon,  862 
glabra,  1319 
laevigata,  1319 
myrtifolia,  862 
opaca,  861 
paraguayensis,  862 
verticillata,  1315 
Ilicin,  862 
Ilixanthin,  862 
Illicium,  863 
floridanum,  864 
Griffithii,  864 
majus,  864 
parviflorum,  863 
religiosum,  863 
verum,  863 
Immerschon,  789 
Immortelle,  789 
Imperatoire,  864 
Imperatoria,  864 
Ostruthium,  118,  864 
Imperatorin,  864 
Incienso,  1166 
Indaco,  865 
India  rubber,  594 
senna,  1440 
Indian  bael,  326 
bdellium,  1069 
bread,  1000 
cannabis,  393 
corn,  203 
115 


' Indian — 
cress,  514 
cucumber,  1027 
dye,  949 
gum-nuts,  1086 
hemp,  233,  393 
hippo,  776 
ipecacuanha,  895 
liquorice,  1 
myrrh,  1068 
paint,  1408 
pennywort,  851 
phvsic,  776 
poke,  1692 
sage,  631 
sarsaparilla,  810 
tobacco,  995 
turmeric,  849 
turnip,  293,  1321 
wormseed,  1413 
yam,  587 
Indican,  865 
Indicum,  865 
Indiglucin,  865 
Indigo,  865 
blue,  865 
carmine,  866 
gluten,  865 
purple,  866 
sauvage,  322 
soluble,  865 
sulphate,  865 
white,  865 

Indigofera  spec.,  865 
Indigo  tin,  865 
Indiscbe  Feige,  356 
Indischer  Hanf,  393 
Indisches  Siissbolz,  1 
Indischhanfextrakt,  655 
fliissiges,  656 

Indischhanftinktur,  1610 
Infusa,  866 
Infusion,  absinth,  5 
bearberry,  874 
buchii,  868 
Calisaya  bark,  869 
calumba,  868 
capsicum,  405 
cascarilla,  869 
catechu,  869 
compound,  869 
chamomile,  868 
chiretta,  869 
cinchona,  869 
acid,  869 
cloves,  868 
columbo,  868 
cusparia,  870 
digitalis,  870 
dulcamara,  870 
ergot,  871 

flaxseed,  compound,  871 
gentian,  compound,  871 
hops,  872 

juniper-berries,  906 
kousso,  870 
linseed,  871 
matico,  872 
orange-peel,  868 
compound,  868 
pareira  brava,  1198 
parietaria,  1198 
quassia,  872 
rhatany,  871 
rhubarb,  872 
rose,  acid,  873 
compound,  873 
senega,  873 
senna,  873 
compound,  873 
serpentary,  874 


Infusion — 
tar,  1255 

thoroughwort,  631 
valerian,  874 
wild  cherry,  872 
yellow  cinchona,  869 
Infusionen,  866 
j Infusions,  866 
, Infusum  angusturee,  870 
anthemidis,  216,  868 
aurantii,  868 
compositum,  868 
barosma,  868 
brayera,  870 
buchu,  868 
calumba,  868 
capsici,  405 
caryophylli,  868 
ease  aril  la,  869 
catechu,  869 
compositum,  869 
chainomilla  romana,  868 
chirata,  869 
cinchona,  869 
acidum,  869 
flava,  869 
cusparia,  870 
cusso,  870 
digitalis,  870 
diosma,  868 
dulcamara,  870 
ergota,  871 
eupatorii,  631 
gentiana  compositum,  871 
humuli,  872 
jaborandi,  1230 
juniperi.  906 
krameria,  871 
lini,  871 

compositum,  871 
lupuli,  872 
matica,  872 
pareira,  1198 
picis  liquida,  1255 
pruni  virginiana,  872 
quassia,  872 
rhei,  872 
kalinum,  872 

rosa  acidum  compositum,  873 
salvia,  1406 
senega,  873 

senna,  compositum,  873,  874 
serpentaria,  874 
uva  ursi,  874 
valeriana,  874 
Ingwer,  1735 
Ingwerextrakt,  711,  1103 
Ingwerpastillen,  1656 
Ingwersirup,  1573 
! Ingwertinktur,  1641 
I Inhalation,  chlorine,  1685 
conine,  creosote,  1685 
fir- wool  oil,  1686 
hydrocyanic  acid,  1685 
iodine,  1686 
Inhalations,  1685 
Injectio  morphina  liypodermica, 
875 

apomorphina,  875 
ergotini,  875 
I Ink,  blue,  729 
colored,  212 
diamond,  68 
indelible,  280 
for  stamping,  212 
hectograph,  769 
Inkberry,  1319 
Inkroot,  1514 
Inosit,  1396 

Inspissated  ox-gall,  715 
Inula  Conyza,  583,  876 


1826 


Inula — 

dysenterica,  876 
Helen  ium,  875 
squarrosa,  876 
Inulin,  Inulol,  876,  928 
Invert-sugar,  1028 
Invertin,  437 
Iodate  de  chaux,  373 
de  potasse,  1304 
lode.  887 

Iodidum  cadmicum,  357 
Iodina  rhombifolia,  304 
Iodi  bromidum,  889 
cbloridum,  889 
Iodine,  887 
bromide,  889 
chloride,  889 
pentabromide,  889 
terbromide,  889 
trichloride,  889 
Iodine  green,  212 
Iodoform,  877 
collodion,  522 
pencils,  1669 
Iodoformum,  877 
Iodol,  879 
Iodophenine,  1214 
Iodopyrine,  227,  232,  893 
Iodozone,  889,  893 
Iodum,  887 

Iodure  d’ammonium,  188 
d’amidon,  206 
d’argent,  278 
d’arsenic,  292 
de  baryum,  324 
de  cadmium,  357 
de  calcium,  374 
d’ethyle,  143 
de  fer,  732 
de  formyle,  877 
de  methyle,  1038 
de  plomb,  1263 
de  potassium,  1301 
de  sodium,  1472 
de  soufre,  1543 
de  strontium,  1520 
de  zinc,  1725 
mercureux,  832 
mercurique,  833 
Ioduretum  ammonicum,  188 
amyli,  206 
arseniosum,  292 
cadmicum,  357 
carbonici,  877 
ferrosum,  732 
hydrargyricum,  833 
hydrargyrosum,  832 
kalicum,  1301 
plumbicum,  1263 
potassicum,  1301 
sulfuris,  1543 
zincicum,  1725 
Ionidium  Ipecacuanha,  895 
polygala}  folium,  895 
Ipecac,  893 
wild,  632 
Ipecacuanha,  893 
annele,  893 
bastard,  299,  895 
farinaceous,  895 
Indian,  895 
ligneous,  white,  895 
lozenges,  1653 
officinale,  893 
spurge,  632 
striated,  895 
small,  895 
undulated,  895 
Ipecacuanhaextrakt,  680 
Ipecacuanhasirup,  1563 
Ipomcea  Jalapa,  901 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


Ipomcea — 

Nil,  903 
orizabensis,  903 
pandurata,  903 
Purga,  901 
Scbiedeana,  901 
simulans,  903 
Turpetbum,  903 
Iris,  899 
florentina,  900 
fcetidissima,  901 
germanica,  900 
pallida,  900 
pseudacorus,  901 
variee,  899 
verna,  virginica,  900 
versicolor,  899 
Irish  broom,  1431 
moss,  471 
jelly,  473 

Irlandisches  Moos,  471 
Iron,  744 
albuminate,  959 
ammoniated,  186 
ammonio-cbloride,  186,  187 
ammonio-citrate,  722 
ammonio-tartrate,  724 
and  ammonium  citrate,  722 
sulphate,  723 
tartrate,  724 

and  potassium  tartrate,  725 
and  quinine  citrate,  726 
soluble,  728 

and  strychnine  citrate,  728 
arsenate,  716 
bark,  1122 
benzoate,  745 
black  oxide,  735 
bromide,  717 
by  hydrogen,  749 
carbonate,  saccharated,  717 
chloride,  719 
citrate,  721 
soluble,  722 
dialyzed,  958 
ferrocyanuret,  729 
hydrated  oxide,  734 
with  magnesia,  737 
peroxide,  734 
hypophosphite,  730 
iodide,  732 
saccharated,  731 
lactate,  733 
magnetic,  744 
oxide,  735 
malate,  745 
moist  peroxide,  734 
oxalate,  745 
oxide,  734 
peptonate,  959 
perchloride,  719 
peroxide,  hydrous,  735 
phosphate,  738 
soluble,  737 
white,  739 
pulverized,  751 
pyrites,  744 
pyrophosphate,  739 

with  sodium  citrate,  739 
reduced,  745 
by  hydrogen,  745 
saccharated,  736 
carbonate,  717 
oxide,  736 
soluble,  719 
salicylate,  740 
sesquichloride,  719 
spathic,  744 
subcarbonate,  735 
sulphate,  740 
dried,  742 


Iron— 

sulphide,  742 
tannate,  745 
tartarized,  725 
tartrated,  725 
valerianate,  743 
Isaconitine,  115 
Isatin,  865 
Isatjs  tinctoria,  865 
Isinglass,  473,  767,  860 
Isis  nobilis,  553 
Islandische  Flechte,  440 
Islandisches  Moos,  440 
Absud,  576 
Isocumene,  332 
Isodulcit,  1341 
Isonandra  Gutta,  801 
Isolichenin,  441 
Isonaphtol,  1072 
Isonitril,  9 
Isop,  858 

Isopelletierine,  793 
Isopropyl  sulphocyanate,  1155 
Italienische  Pillen,  1239 
Iva,  17 

I vain,  Ivaol,  17 
Ivette,  1589 
Ivory,  1185 
black,  405 
Ivraie,  997 
Ivy,  1183 
ground,  777 
Ixora  bandhuca,  899 
coccinea,  899 

TABONERA,  1225 
? ) Jaborandi,  1229 
Jaborandi-Extrakt,  695 
Jaborandine,  1230 
Jaborine,  1229 
Jacaranda  branca,  901 
oxvphylla,  901 
procera,  901 
subrhombea,  901 
Jack-fruit,  752 
Jacobskraut,  1656 
Jafferabad  aloes,  163 
Jaffna,  473 
Jalap  resin,  902,  1366 
stalks,  903 

Jalapa,  Jalap,  901,  1366 
Jalapenextrakt,  682 
Jalapenharz,  1366 
Jalapenknollen,  901 
Jalapenpulver,  1331 
Jalapentinktur,  1625 
Jalapin,  903 
Jalapinha,  903 
Jamaica,  168 

cabbage-tree  bark,  208 
dogwood,  1251 
ginger,  1736 
kino,  912 
quassia,  1338 
red  cedar,  317 
sarsaparilla,  1423 
Jamaicine,  208 
Jambosa  malaccensis,  1070 
vulgaris,  1070 
James’s  powder,  1327 
tea,  907 

Jamestown  weed,  1516 
Janipha  Manihot,  205 
Japaconitine,  119 
Japan  camphor,  387 
Japanese  belladonna,  329 
galls,  765 
gelatin,  473 
isinglass,  860 
persimmon,  588 
Jarape  de  ramno,  1374 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


1827 


Jasmin  sauvage,  769 
Jateorrhiza  Calumba,  378 
palmata,  378 
Jatropha  Curcas,  567 
dulcis,  205 
elastica,  593 
Janiplia,  205 
Manihot,  205 
multifida,  568 
Jaune  amer,  86 
d’ceuf,  1714 
Java  cardamoms,  413 
turmeric,  569 
Javanine,  489 
Jeffersonia  dipliylla,  904 
Jelly,  paraffin,  1208 
Jequiriti,  1 

Jerusalem  artichoke,  808 
oak,  447 
Jervine,  1691 
Jesuits’  balsam,  1609 
bark,  480 
tea,  862 
Jeticucu,  903 
Jetoline,  212 
Jidda  gum,  6 
Jimson  weed,  1516 
Joaunesia  principis,  568 
Jod, 887 

Jodammonium,  188 
Jodathyl,  143 
Jod  barium,  324 
Jodblei,  1263 
Jodblei  Pflaster,  607 
Jodbleisalbe,  1670 
Jodbromid,  889 
Jodeadmium,  357 
Jodcalcium,  374 
Jodeisen,  732 

Jod luvl tige  Carbolsaure,  39 
Jodkadmium,  357 
Jodkalium,  1301 
Jodkaliumsalbe,  1671 
mit  Jod,  1669 

Jodkalium-Seifenlinimeut,  941 
Jodliniment,  941 
Jodmethyl,  1038 
Jodnatrium,  1472 
Jodoform,  877 
Jodoformsalbe,  1669 
Jodquecksilberarsenik,  950 
Jodquecksilber,  gelbes,  832 
rothes,  833 

Jodquecksilbersalbe,  1666 
Jodsalbe,  1668 
Jodschwefel,  1543 
Jodschwefelsalbe,  1672 
Jodsilber,  278 
Jodstiirke,  206 
Jodtinktur,  1623 
Jodtrichlorid,  889 
Jodwasserstoffather,  143 
Jodwasserstoffsaure,  56 
Jodwasserstoffsirup,  1554 
Johannisbrot,  419 
Jolianniskraut,  857 
Johauniswurzel,  301 
Jointed  charlock,  1447 
Jonquil,  1076 
Jordan  almonds,  194 
Joubarbe  acre,  1435 
des  vignes,  1435 
grande,  1435 
Judendornbeeren,  905 
Judenkirsche,  159 
Juglans,  904 
cathartica,  904 
cinerea.  904 
nigra,  905 
oblonga,  904 
regia,  905 


Juglone,  905 
Juice,  gastric,  1204 
of  belladonna,  1534 
of  broom,  1535 
of  conium,  1535 
of  dandelion,  1535 
of  hemlock,  1535 
of  liyoscyamus,  1535 
pancreatic,  1189 
Juices.  1534 
inspissated,  636 
Jujuba,  905 
! J uj  ube-berries,  905 
paste,  906 
Julapium,  1042 
| Julep,  1042 

gommeux,  1062 
Jumble-beads,  1 
I Jungfermilch,  1608 
Jungfernol,  1139 
Juniper,  906 
berries,  906 
wood,  906 
Juniperin,  906 
Juni perus,  906 
communis,  906 
nana,  906 
Oxycedrus,  1114 
Sabina,  1391 
virginiana,  1392 
Jus  de  reglisse,  674 
.Jusquiame  noir,  853 
J ute,  1602 

KADDIGBEEREN,  906 
Kadeol,  1114 
Kadmium,  359 
Eadmiumjodiir,  357 
Kadmiumoxvd,  schwefelsaures, 
358 

Kadmiumsulfat,  358 
Kamipferid,  761 
Kaffee,  359 
Ivaffein,  361 
Kainite,  1313 
Kairina,  Kairine,  1590 
Kairocoll,  Kairoliue,  1590 
Kaisersalat,  4 
Kaiserwurz,  864 
Kakaobolinen,  1595 
i Ivakaobutter,  1161 
, Kakoteline,  1086 
! Kaktus,  356 
j Kalabarbohne,  1220 
Kalabarbohnen-Extrakt,  694 
Kal  abarboli  nentinktur,  1633 
Kaladana,  903 
Kali  causticum  fusum,  1269 
essigsaures,  1275 
kydricum  fusum,  1269 
solutum,  975 
Kali.  See  Kalium. 

Kalialaun,  169 
Kalilauge,  975 
Kalisalpeter,  1307 
Kalisayarinden-Extrakt,  661 
Kalisciiwefelleber,  1273 
j Kaliseife,  1418 
Kalium,  1270 
aceticum,  1275 
solutum,  1276 
arseni cosum,  979 
bicarbon  icum,  1277 
hi  tartar  i cum,  1280 
borussicum,  1299 
bromatum,  1282 
bromid,  1282 
carbonicum,  1287 
acid  ulum,  1277 
crudum,  1288 
depuratum,  1288 


Kalium — 

e tartaro,  1287 
purum,  1287 
causticum  fusum,  1269 
chlorat-Pastillen,  1654 
chloratum,  1291 
cliloricum,  1290 
chloridum,  1291 
chlorsaures,  1290 
citrat,  980 
citricurn,  1295 
citronsaures,  1295 
cyanatum,  1296 
dichromicum,  1279 
doppeltchromsaures,  1279 
doppeltkohlensaures,  1277 
essigsaures,  1275 
ferrocyanatum,  1299 
kydricum  fusum,  1269 
kydroxyd,  1269 
hydrojodicum,  1301 
hypermanganicum,  1310 
liypopkosphorosum,  1300 
iodatum,  1301 
jodsaures,  1304 
koklensaures,  1287,  1288 
muriaticum  oxygenatum,  1290 
nitricum,  1307 
oxymuriaticum,  1290 
permanganicum,  1310 
permanganat,  981 
salpetersaures,  1307 
schwefelsaures,  1313 
schwefligsaures,  1313,  1314 
sulfocyanat,  1300 
sulfuratum,  1273 
ad  balneum,  1273 
sulfuricum,  1313 
sulfurosum,  1314 
tartaricum,  1315 
boraxatum,  1316 
ubermangansaures,  1310 
unterpliosphorigsaures,  1300 
weinsaures,  1315 
| Kaliumchlorat-Pastillen,  1654 
| Kalk,  379 

gebran liter,  379 
geloschter,  380 
jodsaurer,  373 
kolilensaurer,  370 
schwefelsaurer,  376 
sckwefligsaurer,  376 
u nterphospkorigsau rer,  372 
! Kalkerde,  phosphorsaure,  374 
Kalkhydrat,  380 
; Kalkliniment,  940 
Kalkscliwefelleber,  384 
Kalksirup,  1558 
Kalkwasser,  952 
Kalmia  an gusti folia,  907 
glauca,  907 
latifolia,  907 
Kalmie,  907 
Kalmusextrakt,  654 
Kalmuswurzel,  367 
Kalumb,  378 
Kamala,  Kameela,  909 
Kamille,  romische,  215 
Kamillenblumen,  1026 
Kamillen-Extrakt,  649 
Kamillenol,  216,  1111 
Kampfer,  386 

Kampferliniment,  939,  940 
Kamferol,  fliichtiges,  388 
Kampfer-Quecksilbersalbe,  1666 
Kampfersalbe,  433 
Kampfer,  salicylirter,  389 
Kampferspiritus,  1502 
Kampferwasser,  255 
Kampferwein,  388 
Kanariensamen,  1213 


1828 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


Kantkariden,  396 
kollodium,  521 
Kapern,  1389 
Kapnomor,  1255 
Kapper,  403 
Kapuzinerkresse,  514 
Kardamomen,  412 
Kardamomentinktur,  1612 
zusammengesetzte,  1612 
Karmelitergeist,  1031 
Karobe,  419 
Kartoffelstarke,  203 
Kasekraut,  168 
Kasepappel,  168 
Kaskarilla-Aufguss,  869 
Kaskarillrinde,  417 
Kaskarilltinktur,  1612 
Kastanienbliitter,  420 
Kastanienblatter-Extrakt,  658 
Katechu,  425 
Katechupastillen,  1651 
Katecbutinktur,  1613 
Katbira,  7 
Katir,  1366 

Katzengamander,  1588 

Katzenkraut,  Katzenminze,  424 

Katzenpfotchen,  789 

Kautscbuk,  593 

Kava-kava,  1025 

Kavaben,  1025 

Kefir,  Kepbir,  917 

Kellerbals,  1039 

Kellerbalskorner,  1040 

Kelline,  477 

Kelp,  887,  1462 

Kelp-ware,  757 

Kengasbi,  903 

Kermes,  512 

mineral,  224,  225 
Kermesbeere,  1225 
Kermesbeerenwurzel,  1225 
extrakt,  694 
Kerosin,  1210 
Kesso,  1682 
Ketmie  acide,  168 
Ketone,  1105 
Khaya  senegalensis,  317 
Kicksia  africana,  1523 
Kidney  bean,  714 
Kiefernadelol,  1586 
Kieselfeucbtigkeit,  986 
Kieserite,  1009 
Kinderpulver,  1332 
King’s  yellow,  293 
Kinnikinnick,  544 
Kino,  911 
red,  911 

varieties,  911,  912 
Kinoin,  490,  911 
Kinone,  360 
Kinopulver,  1331 
Kinotinktur,  1625 
Kinovin,  491 

Kirsch,  Kirscliwasser,  148 
Kirschlorbeerblatter,  930 
Kirschlorbeerwasser,  263 
Kirschsirup,  1569 
Kissingen  spring,  268 
Klapperrose,  1380 
Klatschrose,  1380 
Klatschrosensaft,  1568 
Klauenfett,  1114 
Klauenol,  1114 
Klebkraut,  763 
Klebtaffet,  604 
Kleebaum,  1321 
Klcesaure,  80 
Klettenwurzel,  928 
exti'akt,  684 
Klipdas,  1060 
Klystiere,  613 


Knigbt’s  spur,  1513 
Knoblauch,  159 
Knoblauchkraut,  513 
Knoblaucbsirup,  1555 
Knobroot,  520 
Knochen,  1184 
Knocbenkohle,  405 
1 Knopfklette,  929 
! Knoppern,  765 
Knorpeltang,  471 
Knotenwurz,  1433 
i Knot-grass,  775 
Kocbsalz,  1466 
Kodein,  514 
Kodeinpbospbat,  515 
Koffein,  361 
Koblbaumrinde,  208 
Kolile,  praparirte,  407 
Koblensaure,  45 
Wasser,  46 
Kolilenstoff,  408 
Kohlenumscblag,  423 
Kohlsaatol,  1447 
Kokkelskorner,  1226 
Kokosnussol,  1120 
Kokum-butter,  766 
Kola  bitter,  766 
Kolanuss,  362 
Kollodium,  520 
Kollodiumwolle,  1336 
Kolniscbes  Wasser,  1507 
Kolombo-Extrakt,  654 
fliissiges,  655 
Kolombo-Infusion,  868 
Kolombotinktur,  1610 
Kolombowurzel,  378 
Kolophonium,  1364 
Koloquinten,  523 
Koloquinten-Extrakt,  663 
zusammengesetzte,  664 
Koloquintenmark,  523 
Konigin  der  Nacht,  356 
Konigschina,  479 
Konigskerze,  1694 
Konigssalbe,  436 
Konigswasser,  76 
Kooso,  Koso,  570 
Koralle,  553 
Kordofan  gum,  5,  6 
Koriander,  542 
Korianderol,  1121 
Korintben,  1678 
Kornblume,  414 
Kornbranntwein,  1503 
Kornelkirscbe,  544 
Kornelrinde,  543 
Kornmutter,  615 
Korund,  174 
Koso,  570 
Extrakt,  667 
Kossin,  Koussin,  571 
Kossotrank,  870 
Koumanga,  624 
Koumys,  917 
Kousso,  570 
Kousso-esels,  571 
Kraftmebl,  201 
Krahenaugen,  1084 
Krabenaugen-Extrakt,  688 
Krahenaugentinktur,  1629 
Krameria,  912 
argentea,  913 
cistoidea,  913 
Ixina,  912 
secundiflora,  913 
triandra,  912 
Krancben  spring,  266 
Krapp,  763 
Kratzbolinen,  1063 
Krauseminze,  1034 
Krauseminzessenz,  1506 


Krauter,  aromatische,  1033 
Krauterwein,  1704 
Krebsaugen,  553 
Krebssteine,  553 
Krebswurz,  614 
Kreide,  552 
Mixtur,  1042 
praparirte,  552 
Kreidepastillen,  1651 
Kreolin,  550 
Kreosot,  547 
Mixtur,  1042 
Kreosotsalbe,  1662 
Kreosotwasser,  259 
Kreosotum,  547 
Kreuzblume,  1268 
Kreuzdorn,  1374 

Kreuzdornbeerensirup,  1374, 1567 
Kreuzkraut,  1656 
Kreuzkiimmel,  559 
Kroncbina,  479 
Kropfwurz,  1433 
Liniment,  941 
Kryolite,  67 
Krummbolzol,  1586 
Kubeben,  556 

Kubeben-Extrakt,  666,  1101 
Kubebenol,  1121 
Kubebenpastillen,  1652 
Kubebentinktur,  1617 
Kiichenscbelle,  1322 
Kulikratze,  1063 
Kiibl  wasser,  975 
Kukukskraut,  513 
Kumiss,  917 
Kiimmel,  415 
langer,  559 
scharfer,  559 
Kiimmelol,  1116 
Kiimmelwasser,  255 
Kundab,  317 
Kupfer,  565 
Kupferacetat,  560 
Kupferalaun,  562 
Kupferammonium,  schwefel- 
saures,  562 

Kupfer,  basiscbessigsaures,  561 
scbwefelsaures,  561 
Kupferdrabt,  565 
Kupferoxyd,  561,  563 
Ammoniak,  562 
Kupfervitriol,  561 
Kupferwasser,  740 
Kiirbissamen,  1200 
Kurchicine,  167 
Kurkuma,  568 
Kusso,  570 
Kussoextrakt,  667 
Kutera  gum,  1643 
Kwosein,  571 
Kyanol,  211 

T ABAKKAQUE’S  solution,  983 
JU  Labdanum,  914 
Labkraut,  763 
Labrador  tea,  907 
Laburnin,  915 
Laburnum,  914 
Lac,  915,  923 
ammoniaci,  610 
asafoetidse,  611 
ferri,  739 

magisterium  sulpburis,  1538 
scammonii,  612 
sulpburis,  1538 
vaccinum,  915 
virginis,  1608 
Lacca,  923 
coerulea,  924 
musica,  924 
Lac-dye,  923 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


1829 


Lachenknoblauch,  1589 
Lackgas,  1082 
Lachrymse  Ckristi,  1699 
Lack,  923 
Lackmus,  924 
Lacmus,  924 
Lactas  ferrosus,  733 
zincicus,  1734 
Lactate  de  fer,  733 
ferreux,  733 
de  strontium,  1521 
Lactid,  70 
Lactine,  1398 
Lactoprotein,  916 
Lactose,  1398 
Lactuca,  925 
species,  925 
Lactucarium,  925 
La  ctucariuin  sirup,  1564 
Lactucariumtinktur,  1626 
Lactucerin,  Lactucin,  926 
Lactucopicrin,  926 
Ladanum,  914 
Ladies’  slipper-root,  573 
Lady’s  thumb,  775 
Lagam  balsam,  539 
Lagenaria  vulgaris,  559 
Laiche,  1425 
Lait,  915 
ammoniacal,  610 
d’amandes,  611 
d’asafcetide,  611 
de  ga'iac,  612 
de  soufre,  1538 
mercuriel,  846 
virginal,  1608 
Lai  tier,  1268 
Laitue  vireuse,  925 
Lakes,  174 

Lakriz,  Lakrizensaft,  674 
gereinigter,  676 
Lakritzen-Mixtur,  1043 
Lamb-kill,  907 
Lamb’s  quarters,  447 
Lamellae,  927 
atropinse,  927 
cocainse,  927 
physostigininse,  927 
Laminae  gelatinosae,  927 
Laminaire  digitee,  927 
Laminaria  Cloustonii,  927 
species,  927 
Lamium  spec.,  934 
Lampblack,  408 
Lampourde,  929 
Lana  collodii,  1336 
gossypii,  790 
philosophica,  1726 
Landolphia  florida,  593 
gummifera,  593 
Langue  de  chien,  349 
Lanolin,  126 
Lanolina,  126 
Lanolinum,  126 
Lanthanum,  438 
Lanthopine,  1172 
Lanugo  gossypii,  790 
Lapathin,  1388 
Lapato,  1388 

Lapides  (Lapilli)  cancrorum,  553 
Lapis  calami  naris,  1733 
causticus  chirurgorum,  1269 
divinus,  562 
infemalis,  281 
nitratus,  280 
lazuli,  176 
smiridis,  174 
smyris,  174 

Laportea  canadensis,  1676 
Lappa,  928 
spec.,  928 


Lappin,  929 
Laque,  923 
bleu,  924 
Larch -bark,  930 
Larehenrinde,  930 
Larchenrindentinktur,  1 626 
Larcbenschwamm,  144 
Lard,  123 
balsamic,  125 
benzoinated,  124 
hog’s,  123 
populinated,  125 
prepared,  123 
Lard  oil,  1103 
Laricin,  144 
Larix  americana,  930 
decidua,  1586 
europsea,  930,  1586 
sibirica,  144,  1254 
Lark’s  claw,  1513 
Larkspur,  1513 
Larrea  glutinosa,  923 
mexicana,  923 
Laserpitin,  936 
Laserpitium  latifolium,  936 
Laseryl  sulphides,  296 
Lathyrus  tuberosus,  572 
Latschenol,  1586 
Latte,  915 

Latwergen,  528,  1327 
Lauch,  160 

Laudanine,  Laudanosine,  1172 
Laudanum,  1629 
de  Rousseau,  1707 
liquidum,  1631 
Sydenham’s,  1707 
Laugensalz,  fliichtiges,  182 
Laughing  gas,  190,  1082 
Laurel,  931 
cerezo,  930 
tulipan,  1011 
Laurellia,  348 
Laureole,  1039 
Laurier  benzoin,  932 
cerise,  930 
commun,  931 
rose,  1095 
Lauroceraso,  930 
Laurose,  1095 
Laurus,  931 
Benzoin,  932 
Camphora,  386 
Cinnamomum,  498 
nobilis,  674,  931,  1230 
Persea,  932 

Liiusekorner,  1390,  1512 
Lauten,  1256 
Lavande  commun,  933 
officinale,  932 
triste,  1514 
Lavandula,  932 
angustifolia,  932 
latifolia,  933 
officinalis,  932 
Spica,  932 
Stoechas,  933 
vera,  932 
Lavativo,  613 
Lavements,  613 
Lavements.  See  Enema. 
Lavendelbliithen,  932 
Lavendelol,  1127 
Lavendelspiritus,  1505 
Lavendeltinktur,  1627 
zusammengesetzte,  1627 
Lavender,  932 
drops,  1627 
flowers,  932 
| Lawsonia  alba,  350 
j Lazulite,  176 
I Leaching,  148 


Lead,  1266 
acetate,  1258 
black,  408 
carbonate,  1262 
chloride,  1264 
chromate,  1279 
dioxide,  1266 
iodide,  1263 
nitrate,  1264 
oxide,  1265 
semi-vitrified,  1265 
peroxide,  1266 
puce  oxide,  1266 
salts,  1266 
sesquioxide,  1266 
tannate,  1264 
water,  975 
Leaf  gum,  1642 
tobacco,  1573 
Leather-flower,  501 
Lebanon  manna,  1019 
Lebensbaum,  1598 
Lebenselixir,  1606 
Leberklette,  145 
Leberthran,  1132 
Lecanora  tartarea,  924 
Leche,  915 
de  popa,  802 
Lechuga,  925 
Lecythis  Zabucajo,  1126 
Ledon,  907 

Ledum  glandulosa,  907 
latifolium,  907 
palustre,  907 
Leech,  814 
varieties,  815 
Leek,  160 
Leim,  767 
Leindotter,  1154 
Leinkraut,  938 
Leinol,  1129 
Leinsamen,  945 
Aufguss,  871 
Leinsamenmehl,  945 
Leinsamen-Umsclilag,  424 
Leiophyllum  buxifolium,  1679 
Lemon',  937 
balm,  1031 
chrome,  1279 
juice,  937 
peel,  937 
thyme,  859 
tree,  937 

Lenitive  electuary,  529 
Leno  de  sassafras,  1426 
Leontice  thalictroides,  428 
Leontodon  Taraxacum,  1580 
Leonurus  cardiaca,  933 
Leopoldsquelle,  266 
Lepidin,  514 
Lepidium  Iberis,  514 
sativum,  514 
spec.,  514 
Lepidolite,  991 
Leptandra,  934 
virginica,  934 
Leptandraextrakt,  684 
Leptandrin,  935 
Lerchenklaue,  1513 
Lerp  of  Australia,  1019 
Lessive  caustique,  975 
Lessive  des  savonniurs,  981 
Lettuce,  925 
Leucin,  768 
Leucogene,  1457 
Leucosinapis  alba,  1444 
Leucotin,  1078 
Levadura  de  cerveza,  436 
Levant  soap-root,  1419 
worm  seed,  1412 
I Levigation,  552,  1324 


1830 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


Levisticum  officinale,  935 
Levulin,  1580 
Levulosan,  1394 
Levulose,  1028,  1396 
Levure  de  biere,  436 
Liane  reglisse,  1 
Liatris  odoratissima,  936 
spec.,  936 

Lichen  Islandicus,  440 

ab  amaritie  libera tis,  441 
starch,  441 
Lichenin,  441 
Licopodia,  1001 
Licorice,  786 
Licorice-root,  786 
Lieber’s  consumption  herbs,  934 
Liebfrauenstroh,  763 
Liebstockel,  935 
Lierre  terrestre,  777 
Life-root,  1656 
Life-everlasting,  789 
Light  oil,  332 
Lignite,  408 

Lignum  benedictum,  796 
campechianum,  804 
cceruleum,  804 
colubrinum,  1086 
guajaci,  796 
hsematoxyli,  804 
pterocarpi,  1411 
quassise,  1338 
sanctum,  796 
santali  album,  1151 
santalinum  rubrum,  1411 
sassafras,  1426 
vitse,  796 

Ligusticum  actseifolium,  936 
filicinum,  936 
Levisticum,  935 
Lilium  convallium,  534 
Lily-of-the-valley,  534 
Lime,  379 
burned,  379 

chloride,  chlorinated,  381 
hypophosphite,  372 
slaked,  380 
sulphurated,  384 
superphosphate,  1185 
See  also  Calcium, 
tree,  1601 
water,  952 
Lime-juice,  937 
Limon,  937 

Limouade  au  citrate  de  magnesie, 
971 

purgative  citromagnesienne, 
971 

seche,  1007 

au  citrate  de  lithine,  993 
de  magnesie,  1007 
Limonensaft,  937 
Limonenschale,  937 
Lin,  945,  1216 
Linaire  commune,  938 
Linaria  vulgaris,  938 
Linarosmin,  938 
Linaza,  945 
Linctus,  1042 
Linden-flowers,  1601 
Lindera  Benzoin,  932 
sericea,  932 
triloha,  932 
Ling,  1133 

Liniment,  aconite,  938 
ammonia,  939 
camphorated,  939 
ammoniacal,  939 
anodyne,  941 
belladonna,  939 
calcaire,  940 
camphor,  940 


Liniment — 

camphor,  carbolized,  940 
compound,  940 
cantharidis,  398 
chloroform,  940 
croton  oil,  941 
iodine,  941 
Kentish,  943 
lime,  940 

mercurial,  mercury,  941 
mustard,  compound,  943 
opium,  941 
phosphore,  1142 
potassium  iodide  and  soap,  941 
saturne,  974 

savonneux  camphre,  942 
iodure,  941 
opiace,  941 
soap,  942 
soft-soap,  943 
subacetate  of  lead,  974 
turpentine,  943 
and  acetic  acid,  944 
volatile,  939 
camphorated,  937 
Linimenta,  938 
Liniments,  938 
Linimentum  aconiti,  938 
ammoniacale,  939 
ammonise,  939 
camphoratum,  939 
ammoniatum,  939 
belladonnse,  939 
calcis,  940 
camphorse,  940 
compositum,  940 
camphoratum,  940 
cantharidis,  954 
chloroformi,  940 
crotonis,  941 
hydrargyri,  941 
iodi,  941 
mercuriale,  941 
opii,  941 

plumbi  subacetatis.  974 
potassii  iodidi  cum  sapone,  941 
saponato  camphoratum,  942 
liquidum,  942 
saponis,  942 
mollis,  943 

sinapis  compositum,  943 
terebinthinse,  943 
aceticum,  944 
terebinthinatum,  943 
volatile,  939 
Linolein,  1094,  1129 
Linosyris  mexicana,  574 
Linseed,  945 
meal,  945 
oil,  1129 
poultice,  424 
Lint,  944 
Linteum,  944 
carptum,  944 
Linum,  945 

usitatissimum,  1129 
Lion’s  foot,  1317 
Lip  salve,  435 
Lippenpomade,  435 
Lippia  origanoides,  1184 
Liqueur  anodine  d’Hoflmann, 
1495 

nitreuse,  1495 
arsenicale  de  Fowler,  979 
de  Pearson,  985 
liydrochlorique,  947 
d’ammoniaque,  248 
vineuse,  1479 
d’arseniate  de  soude,  985 
de  Belloste,  968 
de  chaux,  952 


Liqueur — 
de  Donovan,  950 
de  Labarraque,  983 
de  Van  Swieten,  969 
des  cailloux,  986 
des  Hollandais,  139 
hemostatique  de  Monsel,  965 
nervine  de  Bang,  1493 
vesicant,  954 
Liquid  blue,  866 
butter  of  antimony,  949 
extracts,  635.  See  Fluid  Ex- 
tracts. 

ferric  oxychloride,  957 
glass,  985 
glue,  768 
opodeldoc,  942 
pepsin,  aromatic,  1205 
Liquidambar,  946 
imberbe,  1532 
orientalis,  1532 
styraciflua,  946 
Liquen  islandico,  440 
Liquiritia  officinalis,  786 
Liquor  acidi  arseniosi,  947 
chromici,  49 
aluminii  acetatis,  176 
ammonise,  248 
fortior,  248 

ammonii  acetatis  (fortior),  948 
acetici,  948 
anisatus,  1111 
carbonici,  184 
pyro-oleosi,  184 
caustici,  248 
spirituosus,  1499 
chlori,  256 
citratis  (fortior),  949 
succinatis,  succinici,  97 
anodynus  martiatus,  1619 
mineralis  Hoffmannii,  1495 
antimonii  chloridi,  949 
arsenicalis,  979 
arsenici  bromidi,  948 
chloridi,  947 
et  hydrargyri  iodidi,  950 
hydrochloricus,  947 
atropinse  sulphatis,  951 
barii  chloridi,  324 
Bellostii,  968 
bismuthi,  951 
et  ammonise  citratis,  951 
calcii  chloridi,  371 
calcis,  952 
chloratse,  383 
chlorinatse,  954 
saccharatus,  1558 
chlori,  256 

cocainse  hydrochloratis,  954 
cornu  cervi  succinici,  97 
epispasticus,  954 
ferri  acetatis,  955,  956 
acetici,  955 
fortior,  955 
albuminati,  959 
chlorati,  721 
chloridi,  957 
citratis,  citrici,  962 
dialysatus,  958 
et  ammonii  acetatis,  963 
muriatici  oxydati,  957 
oxydulati,  721 
nitratis,  963 
oxychlorati,  958 
peptonati,  959 
perchloridi,  957 
fortior,  957 
pernitratis,  963 
persulphatis,  966 
protochloridi,  1562 
sesquichlorati  fortior,  957 


Liquor — 

ferri  subsulphatis,  965 
tersulphatis,  966 
flints,  986 
gutta-perch®,  967 
Hollandicus,  139 
hydrargyri  bicliloridi,  969 
nitratis,  967 
acidus,  967 

nitrici  oxydati,  967,  968 
perchloridi,  969 
iodi,  969 
causticus,  970 
compositus,  969 
kali  acetici,  1276 
arsenicosi,  979 
carbon  ici,  1289 
caustici,  975 
citrici,  980 

lithi®  effervescens,  970 
magnesite  carbonatis,  970 
citratis,  97 1 
magnesii  acetatis,  972 
citratis,  971 
citrici,  971 

morphin®  acetatis,  972 
bimeconatis,  973 
kydrochloratis,  973 
sulphatis,  973 
natri  carbolici,  1487 
caustici,  981 
chlorati,  983 
hypochlorosi,  983 
silicici,  985 
nervine  de  Bang,  1495 
opii  compositus,  1633 
pepsini  aromaticus,  1205 
plumbi  subacetatis,  973 
dilutus.  975 
subacetici,  973 
potass®,  975 
chlorat®,  983 
effervescens,  978 
permanganatis,  981 
potassii  arsenitis,  979 
citratis,  980 
permanganatis,  981 
saccharini,  1393 
silicum,  986 
sod®,  981 

chlorat®,  chlorinat®,  383,  983 
effervescens,  985 
sodii  arsenatis,  arseniatis,  985 
carbolici,  1487 
ethylatis,  982 
silicatis,  985 
stibii  chlorati,  949 
strychnin®,  987 
hydrochloratis,  987 
zinci  chloridi,  987 
Liquores,  947 
Liquorice,  674 
Italian,  675 
lozenges,  1653 
purified,  676 
refined,  675 
root,  786 

Liria  americana,  899 
de  Florencia,  900 
Liriodendron,  1012 
tulipifera,  1012 
Liris  de  los  valles,  532 
Lisbon  diet  drink,  579 
sarsaparilla,  1423 
wine,  1699 

Lisianthus  sempervirens,  769 
List,  alphabetical,  of  drugs,  1779 
of  formulas,  1749 
of  indicators  for  alkalimetry, 
1744 

of  reagents  and  tests,  1739 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


1831 


List — 

of  volumetric  assays,  U.  S.,  1754 
of  weights,  molecular,  1759 
Lister’s  catgut,  40 
j Lithanthrax,  408 
Litharge,  1265 
Lithargyrum,  1265 
Lithi®  carbonas,  991 
citras,  992 
Litliii  benzoas,  988 
borocitras,  993 
bromidum,  989 
carbonas,  991 
chloridum,  990 
citras,  992 
effervescens,  993 
iodidum,  990 
salicylas,  994 

Lithion,  benzoesaures,  988 
citronensaures,  992 
kohlensaures,  991 
wasser,  970 

Lithium  benzoate,  988 
bromide,  989 
carbonate,  991 
carbonicum,  991 
chloride,  990 
citrate,  992 
effervescent,  993 
citricum,  992 
diborocitrate,  993 
iodide,  990 
monoborocitrate,  993 
salicylate,  994 
salicylicum,  994 
Litmus,  924 
paper,  924 
Liveche,  935 
Live-for-ever,  1435 
Live-oak,  1341 
Liver  of  antimony,  222 
of  sulphur,  1273 
Liverwort,  811 
Lixivium  causticum,  975 
Lizard’s  tail,  1427 
Lobelacrin,  995 
Lobelia,  995 
cardinalis,  996 
inflata,  995 
syphilitica,  996 
Lobeliatinktur,  1627 
Lobelie  enflee,  995 
Lobelien-Extrakt,  685 
Lobelienkraut,  995 
Lobeline,  995 
Loblolly  pine,  1584 
Loco-weed,  1643 
Locust-tree,  1384 
Loffelkraut,  512 
Logan’s  plaster,  609 
Logwood,  804 
Lohoch,  1042 
Lolch,  997 
Loliin,  997 
Lolium  arvense,  997 
perenne,  997 
temulentum,  997 
Long  buchu,  355 
cardamoms,  413 
nutmeg,  1066 
pepper,  1248 

Lonicera  Periclymenum,  591 
Looch,  1042 
Loosestrife,  1003 
| Loranthus  europ®us,  1712 
Lorbeer,  931 
Losophane,  879 
Losungen,  947 
Lota  Molva,  1133 
Lotio  ammoniacalis  camphorata, 
265 


Lotio  hydrargyri  flava,  998 
nigra,  998 
plumbea,  975 

Lotion,  mercurial,  black,  998 
yellow,  998 
Lotiones,  998 
Lotions,  998 
Lotwurz,  350 
Lovage,  935 
Lowenmaul,  938 
Lowenzahn,  1580 
Lowenzahn-Absud,  580 
Lowenzalmextrakt,  707,  708 
Lowenzahnsaft,  1535 
Loxa-bark,  Loxarinde,  479 
Loxopterygine,  303 
Loxopterygium  Lorentzii,  303 
Lozenges,  1649  See  Troches. 
Lucuma  mammosa,  766 
salicifolia,  1047 
Luffa  ®gyptiaca,  1510 
fcetida,  1510 
operculata,  524 
Petola,  1510 
Lugol’s  caustic,  970 
solution,  969 
Lump  galbanum,  762 
lac,  923 
Luna,  287 
Lunar  caustic,  281 
Lune  d’eau,  1087 
Luuel  wine,  1699 
Lungenkraut,  349 
Lungenmoos,  440 
Lungwort,  349 
Lupin,  998 

Lupinine,  Lupigenin,  998 
Lupinus  spec.,  998 
Lupulin,  818,  999 
Lupuline,  Lupulina,  818,  999 
Lupulin-Extrakt,  685,  1102 
Lupulinum,  818,  999 
Lupulite,  999 
Lupulus,  818 
Luteolin,  403 
Lycine,  591 
Lycium  Afrum,  591 
barbarum,  591 
umbrosum,  591 
vulgare,  591 
Lycoctonine,  119,  122 
Lycope  de  Virgiuie,  1002 
Lycoperdon  spec.,  1000 
Lycopode,  1001 
Lycopodium  clavatum,  1001 
spec.,  1001 

Lycopus  europ®us,  1002 
virginicus,  1002 
Lyperia  crocea,  556 
Lysimachia  nummularia,  1318 
quadrifolia,  1318 
Lvsol,  40,  45 
Ly th  rum  alatum,  1003 
album,  1003 
lanceolatum,  1003 
salicaria,  1003 
Lytta  aspersa,  398 
Gigas,  397 
vesicatoria,  397 

MACAJA  butter,  1142 
Mace,  1003 
Macene,  1004 
Mach®rium  fertile,  304 
Machilus  velutina,  499 
Macis,  1003 

Macropiper  methysticum,  1249 
Macrotin,  479 
Macrotys  act®oides,  478 
Madder,  763 
Madeira  wine,  1699 


1832 


Madia  sativa,  1130 
Madras  turmeric,  569 
Mad  weed,  1434 
Maisa  lanceolata,  910 
picta,  910 

Mafura  tallow,  1162 
Mafureira  oleifera,  1162 
Magendie’s  solution  of  morphine, 
973 

Magenta,  212 

Magistere  de  coquille  d’liuitres, 
553 

de  soufi’e,  1538 
Magisterium  bismuthi,  342 
opii,  1170 
Magnesia,  1004 
Magnesia  alba,  1006 
and  rhubarb,  1332 
calcinata,  1004 
calcined,  1004 
carbonate,  1006 
fluid,  970 
gebrannte,  1004 
hydrico-carbonica,  1006 
levis,  1004 
light,  1004 
limonade,  971 
ponderosa,  1004 
schwefelsaure,  1008 
sulfuriea,  1008 
sicca,  1009 
sulphate,  1008 
usta,  1004 
vitriariorum,  1014 
wasser,  970 
weisse,  1006 

Magnesialosung,  kohlensaure,  970 
Magnesise.  See  Magnesii. 
carbonas  levis,  1006 
ponderosa,  1006 
Magnesie,  1004 
blanche,  1006 
calcine,  1004 
liquide,  970 
Magnesii  acetas,  972 
carbonas,  1006 
citras  eflervescens,  1007 
lactas,  1010 
sulphas,  1008 

eflervescens,  1009 
exsiccatus,  1009 
sulphis,  1010 
Magnesite,  1005 
Magnesium,  1005 
acetate,  972 
carbonate,  1006 
carbonicum,  1006 
citrat,  971 
in  Kornern,  1007 
citrate  effervescing,  1007 
citricum  eflervescens,  1007 
lactate,  1010 
silicate,  986 
sulfuricum,  1008 
siccum,  1009 
sulfurosum,  1010 
sulphate,  1008 
effervescent,  1009 
sulphite,  1010 
sulphocarbolate,  1486 
Magneteisen,  735 
Magnolia,  1011 
acuminata,  1011 
bark,  1011 
glauca,  1011 
grandiflora,  1011 
seeds,  1081 
tripetala,  1011 
Umbrella,  1011 
Magnolier,  1011 
Magnolienrinde,  1011 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


Magnolin,  1012 
Magsamen,  1192 
Maguey,  145 
Mahogany-wood,  317 
Malionia  spec.,  337 
Mahwah  butter,  1161 
Mahy’s  plaster,  608 
Maiblumen,  534 
Maiblumenwurzel-Extrakt,  666 
Maiden-hair,  127 
Maisbrand,  1718 
Maisstarke,  203 
Maize,  203 

Malabar  cardamoms,  413 
Malaga  almonds,  194 
raisins,  1678 
wine,  1699 
Malaguecta,  1247 
Majoran,  1183 
Majorana  hortensis,  1184 
Malambo-bark,  418 
Male  fern,  301 
jalap,  903 
kola,  766 
nutmeg,  1046 
Mallee,  1122 

Mallotus  philippinensis,  909 
Mallow,  168 
Mallow-leaves,  168 
Malt  d’orge,  1013 
vinegar,  12,  13 
Maltin,  1013 
Maltose,  148,  203 
Maltum,  1013 
hordei,  1013 
Malva,  168 
neglecta,  168 
rotundifolia,  168 
sylvestris,  168 
vulgaris,  168 
Malvavisco,  167 
Malvenblatter,  168 
Malz,  1013 
Malzextrakt,  686 
Mammea  americana,  766 
Mammee  apple,  766 
Mammillaria  simplex,  356 
Man  of  the  earth,  903 
Manaca,  Manacine,  754 
Manchineel,  819 
Mancinellin,  819 
Mancona-bark,  Macon ine,  624 
Mandelconserve,  1326 
Mandelemulsion,  611 
Mandelmilch,  611 
Mandeln,  bittere,  193 
siisse,  193 
Mandelol,  1107 
Mandelsirup,  1555 
Mandioc,  205 
Mandorle,  193 

Mandragora  autumnalis,  328 
officinalis,  328 
vernalis,  328 
Mandragore,  328 
Mandrake,  328,  1267 
Mangabeira  rubber,  593 
Manganese,  black  oxide,  1014 
dioxide,  1014 
peroxide,  1014 
salts,  1015-1017 

Manganesii  oxidum  nigrum,  1014 
sulphas,  1015 
Manganesium,  1015 
Mangani  carbonas,  1016 
chloridum,  1016 
dioxidum,  1014 
iodidum,  1016 
lactas,  1017 
oxidum  nigrum,  1014 
pliosphas,  1017 


Mangani — 
sulphas,  1015 
tannas,  1017 
tartras,  1017 

Manganic  heptoxide,  1015 
Manganite,  1014 
Manganium,  1015 
Manganosulfat,  1015 
Manganous  iodide,  1016 
oxide,  1015 
phosphate,  1017 
sulphate,  1015 

Manganoxydul,  schwefelsaures, 
1015 

Mangansuperoxyd,  1014 
Manganum,  1015 
carbonate,  1016 
chloride,  1016 
hyperoxydatum,  1014 
iodide,  1016 
lactate,  1017 
phosphate,  1017 
sulfuricum,  1015 
tannate,  1017 
tartrate,  1017 
Mangostane,  766 
Mangosteen,  Mangostin,  766 
Manihot  Aipi,  205 
carthaginensis,  205 
Glaziovii,  593 
palmata,  205 
utilissima,  205 
Manioc,  205 
Manna,  Manne,  1017 
varieties,  1017,  1018,  1019 
Mannit,  792,  935 
Mannitan,  Mannitose,  1018 
Mannstreu,  624 
Manroot,  903 
Manteca  con  benjui,  124 
de  cacao,  1161 
de  cerdo,  123 
Manuea,  566 
Manzanilla  comun,  1026 
romana,  215 
Manzanito,  1680 
Maracaibo  copaiva,  537 
Maranham  copaiva,  537 
Maranta  arundinacea,  204 
indica,  204 
Marantastarke,  204 
Marble,  Marbre,  1019 
Margarin,  1140 
Margosa,  316 
Margosin,  317 
Margousier,  316 
Marigold,  377 
Marjoram,  sweet,  1184 
wild,  1183 
Marmor,  1019 
album,  1019 
Marocortesso,  1588 
Marronier,  420 
Marronnier  d’Inde,  813 
Marrube  blanc,  1020 
fetide,  934 
noir,  934 
Marrubin,  1020 
Marrubium,  1020 
vulgare,  1020 
Mars,  744 

Marsala  wine,  1699 
Marsdenia  Cundurango,  526 
Marsh  cinquefoil,  775 
cistus,  907 
cress,  513 
gas,  18,  1210 
parsley,  1436 
rosemary,  1514 
tea,  907 
trefoil,  1035 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


1833 


Marshmallow  flowers,  168 
paste,  8 
root,  167 

Martin’s  depilatory,  384 
lnemostatic,  958 
Maruta  Cotula,  215,  546,  1026 
fcetida,  546 
Maryland  pink,  1492 
Mary  thistle,  929 
Marzoquilla,  1225 
Marzveilchen,  1711 
Mass,  blue,  1021 
of  copaiba,  1020 
of  ferrous  carbonate,  1021 
of  mercury,  1022 
Yallet’s,  1021 
Massa  coerula,  1022 
copaibse,  1020 
de  jujubis,  906 
ferri  carbonatis,  1021 
hydrargyri,  1022 
Mass®  pilularum,  1020 
Masse  pilulaire  bleu,  1022 
de  copahu,  1020 
carbonate  ferreux,  1021 
de  Yallet,  1021 
Massena  springs,  266 
Masses  pilulaires,  1020 
Massicot,  1265 
Masterwort,  812,  864 
Mastic,  Mastich,  1023 
Mastiche,  1023 
Bombay,  1023 
Mastix,  1023 

Mastocarpus  mamillosus,  471 
Mastuerzo,  514 
Mata  perro,  527 
Mater  secalis,  615 
Matico,  1024 
Aufguss,  872 
Extrakt,  687 
Maticotinktur,  1628 
Matitas,  8 

Matonia  Cardamomum,  412 
Matricaire,  1198 
Matricaria,  1026,  1198 
Chamomilla,  215,  1026 
Parthenium,  1198 
Pyrethrum,  1333 
Matrimony  vine,  591 
Mauerpfeffer,  1435 
Maulbeersaft,  1048,  1565 
Mauritius  elemi,  596 
Mauseohrchen,  813 
Mauve,  212 
sauvage,  168 
Mauveine,  212 
Maw-seed,  1192 
May  apple,  1267 
flower,  1679 
pops,  1200 
weed,  546 
M’boundou,  1086 
Meadowfern,  526 
Meadow  saffron,  516 
Meadow-sweet,  1193 
Mealy  sarsaparilla,  1423 
Mecca  balsam,  1069 
senna,  1440 
Meconidine,  1172 
Meconin,  1173 
Meconium,  1167 
Meconoiosin,  1173 
Medeola  virginica,  1027 
Medicago  sativa,  328 
Medicated  cigarrettes,  444 
honeys,  1029 
waters,  246 
wines,  1697 
Medecine  noir,  874 
Medicinier,  567 


I Medicinische  Weine,  1697 
Medulla  sassafras,  1426 
j Meereiche,  757 
Meerrettig,  288 
Meerrettiggeist,  1 501 
Meerschaum,  9i->6,  1005 
Meerzwiebel,  1429 
Meerzwiebel-Essig,  16 
Meerzwiebel-Extrakt,  703 
Meerzwiebelhonig,  1188 
Meerzwiebelpillen,  1246 
Meerzwiebelsirup,  1570 
Meerzwiebeltinktur,  1637 
Megerkraut,  763 
Mehlige  Aletris,  158 
Meiran,  1183 
Meisstarke,  201 
Meisterwurz,  864 
Mejorana,  1184 
Mel,  1027 
acetatum,  1187 
boracis,  1029 
depuratum,  1029 
despumatum,  1029 
rosse,  1029 
rosatum,  1029 
sodii  boratis,  1029 
Melaleuca  ericifolia,  1115 
Leucadendron,  1114 
linarifolia,  1115 

Melanthin,  Melanthigenin,  1081 
Melanthium  virens,  1692 
Melasse,  1597 
Melegueta  pepper,  1737 
Meleze,  940 
Melezitose,  1019 
Melia  Azadirachta,  316 
Azedarach,  316 
Melilot,  1030 
Melilotenklee,  1030 
Melilotus  alba,  1030 
officinalis,  1030 
species,  1030 
Melissa,  1031 
cordifolia,  1031 
officinalis,  1031 
pulegioides,  806 
Melisse,  1031 
Melitose,  1019 
Mellago,  638 
Mellita,  Mellites,  1029 
Mellite  simple,  1029 
Mellitum  rosatum,  1029 
Melocactus  communis,  357 
Melocoton,  1207 
Meloe  vesicatorius,  397 
Melon  tree,  1204 
Membrillo,  572 
Mengelwurz,  1388 
Menispermine,  1226 
Menispermum,  1032 
canadense,  1032 
Cocculus,  1226 
Menispine,  1032 
Mennige,  1266 
Mentha  crispa,  1034 
hirsuta,  1032 
piperita,  1032 
Pulegium,  806,  1126 
spec.,  1034 

sylvestris,  1032,  1046 
viridis,  1033 
Menthe  crepue,  1034 
de  chats,  424 
de  cheval,  1045 
poivree,  1032 
pouliot,  806 
romaine,  1033 
verte,  1033 
Menthol,  1034,  1131 
Pflaster,  604 


Menyanthe,  1035 
Menyanthes  trifoliata,  1035 
Menyanthin,  Menyanthol,  1035 
Mercaptan,  Mercaptol,  1535 
Mercurammonium  chloride,  846 
Merck’s  normal  mercuric  phenate, 
842 

| Mercure,  840 

avec  la  craie,  847 
doux,  825 
precipite  blanc,  846 
saccharin,  1022 
Mercurialpillen,  1023 
Mercuric  carbolate,  842 
chloride,  corrosive,  820 
cyanide,  831 
formamide,  1673 
iodide,  833 
oleate,  1098 
oxide,  red,  837 
yellow,  836 
phenate,  842 
potassium  iodide,  834 
salicylate,  89,  842 
salts,  842 

subsulphate,  yellow,  838 
sulphate,  839 
basic,  838 
sulphide,  839 
Mercurinitrat,  967 
| Mercurioxysulfat,  838 
Mercurio-vegetal,  754 
Mercurius  borussicus,  831 
calcinatus,  837 
corrosivus  ruber,  837 
cyanatus,  831 
dulcis,  825 
emeticus  flavus,  838 
iodatus  ruber,  833 
prsecipitatus  albus,  846 
ruber,  per  se,  837 
sublimatus  corrosivus,  820 
vitriolatus,  839 
vivus,  840 
Mercuronitrat,  968 
Mercurous  chloride,  825 
iodide,  832 
nitrate,  968 
salts,  842 
tannate,  842 
Mercury,  840 
ammoniated,  846 
and  zinc,  double  cyanide,  832 
bichloride,  820 
biniodide,  833 
carbolate,  845 
cyanide,  cyanuret.  831 
formamidate,  845 
fulminating,  968 
green  iodide,  832 
iodotannate,  845 
mild  chloride,  825 
oleate,  1098 
oxy cyanide,  845 
perchloride,  820 
peroxide,  837 
persulphate,  839 
precipitated  oxide,  836 
protochloride,  825 
protoiodide,  832 
protoxide,  tannate,  846 
red  iodide,  833 
oxide,  837 
sulphide,  839 
sulphuret,  839 
salicylate,  845 
subchloride,  825 
subsulphate,  838 
succinamide,  845 
sulphate,  839 
with  chalk,  847 


1834 


Mercury — 
yellow  iodide,  832 
oxide,  836 

Meres  de  girofle,  417 
Merlangus  carbonarius,  1133 
pollachius,  1132 
vulgaris,  1133 
Merluccius  communis,  1132 
Merrettig,  288 
Mertensia  virginica,  350 
Mesembryanthemum  crystalli- 
num,  357 
Mesenna,  910 
Mesit,  1255 
Mesitalkobol,  11 
Mespilodaphne  pretiosa,  1077 
Mespilus  Aucuparia,  1491 
Mesquite  gum,  7,  8 
Metachloral,  453 
Metacinnamene,  1533 
Metacresol,  40 
Metadioxybenzeue,  1370 
Metaldehyde,  1195 
Metamorpbine,  1173 
Metaphosphoric  anhydride,  82 
Methacetin,  1215,  1216 
Methane,  1255 
Methozine,  226 
Methyl  blue,  213 
chloride,  1036 
iodide,  1038 
nitrosalicylate,  1124 
oxide,  132 

salicylas,  salicylate,  1039 
Methylacetanilid,  9 
Methylgethy  lather,  132 
Methylal,  132,  137 
Methylalkohol,  157 
Methylamine,  618,  1645 
Methylanthracen,  165 
Methylather,  132 
Methylbenzene,  321 
Methylcreosol,  548 
Methyleuchlorid,  1036 
Methylene  bichloride,  1036 
blue,  213 
chloride,  1036 

Methyleni  bichloridum,  1036 
Methylenii  biniodidum,  1038 
iodidum,  1038 
Methyl-ethylketone,  1536 
Methyl-ethyloxide,  132 
Methyl-green,  212 
Methyl-guaiacol,  548 
Methyli  iodidum,  1038 
Methylmorphine,  514,  1171 
Methylpyrocatechin,  798 
Methylpelletierine,  793 
Methyltheobromine,  362 
Methylviolet,  213 
Methysticin,  1025 
Metilacetone,  11 
Metroxylon  Igeve,  205 
Rumphii,  205 
Sagu,  205 

Meum  Fceniculum,  752 
Mexican  elemi,  596 
sarsaparilla,  1423 
tea,  447 

MexikanischesTraubenkraut,  447 
Mezcal,  145 
Mezereon-bark,  1039 
fruit,  1040 
Mezereum,  1039 
Mezquite  gum,  7 
Mica,  1005 
panis,  1041 
Microcidin,  1073 
Micromeria  barbata,  859 
Douglasii,  859 
mon  tana,  859 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


Mie  du  pain,  1041 
Miel,  1027 
despume,  1029 
Mignatta,  814 
Mignonette,  403 
Mikania  Guaco,  632 
Milch,  915 
Milchsaure,  69 
Milch  wurz,  1268 
Milchzucker,  1398 
Milfoil,  16 
Milk,  915 
of  almonds,  611 
of  ammoniac,  610 
of  asafoetida,  611 
of  iron,  739 
of  lime,  380 
of  scammony,  612 
of  sulphur,  1538 
purslain,  632 
sugar,  916,  1398 
Milkweed,  298 
Milkwort,  bitter,  1269 
Millefeuille,  16 
Millepertuis,  857 
Mimosa  arabica,  5 
Catechu,  425 
catechuoides,  425 
nilotica,  5 
Suma,  425 
Sundra,  425 
Mimusops  Balata,  802 
Elengi,  1047 
Globosa,  802 

Mineral  chameleon,  1310 
green,  565 
kermes,  225 
spring,  237 
turpeth,  838 
waters,  265 
artificial,  269 
Mineralwasser,  265 
alkalische,  978 
Minium,  1266 
de  fer,  735 
Minjack-lagam,  539 
Mirabilis  Jalapa,  903 
Mirbanol,  1081 
Mirra,  1067 
Mispickel,  293 
Mistel,  1712 
Mistletoe,  1712 
Mistura  ammoniaci,  610 
amygdalae,  611 
asafcetidge,  611 
carminativa  Dewees,  1044 
chloroformi,  612 
et  opii,  1614 
creosoti,  1042 
cretge,  1042 
ferri  aromatica,  1042 
composita,  1043 
et  ammonii  acetatis,  963 
glycyrrhizge  composita,  1043 
guaiaci,  612 
gummosa,  1062 
magnesise  et  asafcetidge,  1044 
olei  ricini,  1044 
oleoso-balsamica,  320 
potassii  citratis,  980 
rhei  et  sodge,  1044 
scammonii,  612 
sennge  composita,  874,  1045 
spiritus  vini  gallici,  1045 
sulfurica  acida,  102 
vulneraria  acida,  102 
Misturge,  1041 
Mitchella  repens,  1045 
Mithridate  mustard,  514 
Mithridatum,  528 
Mixtura.  See  Mistura. 


Mixturge,  1041 

Mixture,  acetate  of  iron  and  am- 
monium, 963 
almond,  611 
ammoniac,  610 
asafoetida,  611 
Basham’s,  963 
brandy,  1045 
brown,  1043 
castor  oil,  1044 
chalk,  1042 
chloroform,  612 
and  opium,  1614 
cognac,  1045 
creosote,  1042 

glycyrrhiza,  compound,  1043 
Griffith’s,  1043 
guaiacum,  612 
gum,  1062 

iron,  aromatic,  1042 
compound,  1043 
liquorice,  compound,  1043 
magnesia  and  asafoetida,  1044 
rhubarb  and  soda,  1044 
scammony,  612 
spirit  of  French  brandy,  1045 
Mixturen,  Mixtures,  1041 
Mogdad  coffee,  361 
Mohnextrakt,  693 
Mohnkapseln,  1191 
Mohnkapseln-Absud,  578 
Mohnkopfe,  1191 
Mohnol,  1192 
Mohnsamen,  1192 
Mohre,  414 
Moka  aloes,  163 
Molasses,  1395, 1597 
Molene,  1694 
Molette,  513 
Molken,  917 

Momordica  balsamina,  559 
Elaterium,  592 
Luffa,  1510 

Monarda  didyma,  512,  1046 
fistulosa,  1046 
punctata,  1045 
Mondkorn,  1032 
Monesia-bark,  1046 
Monesin,  1047 
Moneywort,  1318 
Monkey  bread,  123 
Monkshood,  117 
Monnayere,  1318 
Monniera  trifolia,  1230 
Monnina  polystachya,  1269 
Monobromkampfer,  391 
Monobromoethane,  141 
Monochlorantipyrine,  455 
Monochlormethane,  1036 
Monosodic  arsenate,  1452 
Monsel’s  solution,  965 
Montebrasite,  981 
Moonseed,  1032 
Moose  elm,  1657 
Morel  le,  328 
a grappes,  1225 
furieuse,  327 
Moringa  aptera,  1154 
oleifera,  1154 
pterygosperma,  1154 
Morocco  gum,  5 
Moronobea  coccinea,  7 
Morphia,  1048 

and  ipecacuanha  lozenges,  1654 
Morphige.  See  Morphinge. 
Morphin,  Morphina,  1048 
essigsaures,  972,  1056 
salzsaures,  973,  1057 
schwefelsaures,  973,  1057 
Morphinge  acetas,  1056 
hydriodas,  1058 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


1835 


Morphinae — 

hydrobromas,  1058 
hydrochloras,  1057 
meconas,  1058 
murias,  1057 
sulphas,  1057 
tartras,  1058 
Morphine,  1048,  1171 
acetate,  1056 
hydriodate,  1058 
hydrobromate,  1058 
hydrochlorate,  1057 
lozenges,  1654 
muriate,  1057 
sulphate,  fc1057 
Morphinpastillen,  1654 
mit  Brechwurzel,  1654 
Morphiuum,  1048 
aceticum,  1056 
hydrochloricum.  1057 
sulfuricum,  1057 
Morphium,  1048 
Morue,  1132 
Morus  alba,  1048 
nigra,  1048 
rubra,  1048 
Moschatine,  17 
Moschoxylon,  317 
Moschus,  1058 
koerner,  168 
moschiferus,  1058 
Moschustinktur,  1628 
Moschuswurzel,  1544 
Moselle  wine,  1699 
Mossy  stonecrop,  1435 
Mostaza,  1444 
Mother  cloves,  417 
Motherwort,  933 
Mountain  ash,  1491 
balm,  623 
bugle,  1589 
green,  565 
laurel,  907 
machined,  1382 
mint,  859 
sage,  4 
senna,  1440 
Mouron  rouge,  1318 
Mouse-ear,  789 
Mousse  de  Corse,  473 
d’Islande,  440 
perlee,  471 

Moutarde  blanche,  1444 
des  moines,  288 
en  feuilles,  444 
grise,  1444 
noire,  1444 
Moxa,  1061 
Mucedin,  713 
Mucilage  of  acacia,  1062 
of  cydonium,  1063 
of  elm,  1063 
of  gum-arabic,  1062 
of  quince-seed,  1063 
of  sassafras-pith,  1063 
of  starch,  1062 
of  tragacanth,  1063 
Mucilages,  1062 
Mucilagines,  1062 
Mucilago  acacife,  1062 
amyli,  1062 
cydoniae,  1063 
cydonii,  1063 
gummi  arabici,  1062 
salep,  1399 

sassafras  medulla1,  1063 
tragacanthae,  1063 
ulmi,  1063 
Mucuna,  1063 
cylindrosperma,  1221 
pruriens,  1063 


I Mucuna — 
prurita,  1064 
urens,  1064 
Mucura-ea-ha,  566 
Mudar-  bark,  299 
j Mughetto,  534 
j Muguet,  534 
j Mugwort,  4 
! Mulberry-juice,  1048 
| Mullein,  1694 
| Muramu,  566 
Mures,  1048 
des  haies,  1388 
Murexoin,  361 
Murias  morpliicus,  1057 
Muse,  1058 
| Muscade,  1003,  1065 
Muscae  hispanicae,  396 
I Muscale  buttons,  356 
Muscarine,  760 
! Muscatel  raisins,  1678 
i Muscovado  sugar,  1395 
j Musana,  910 
Musenna,  910 
Musennin,  910 
Musk,  1058 
artificial,  1156 
seed,  168 
varieties  of,  1059 
Muskatbluthe,  1003 
Muskatbutter,  1138 
Muskatnuss,  1065 
Muskatnussol,  1138 
Muskatol,  atherisches,  1137 
Muskatspiritus,  1507 
Muskmelon,  559 
Musk  milfoil,  17 
Mussena,  910 
Mustard  paper,  444 
poultice,  424 
Russian,  1446 
Sarepta,  1446 
seed,  1446 
Mutterharz,  761 
Mutterharzpflaster,  602 
Mutterkorn,  615 
Aufguss,  871 

Mutterkorn-Extrakt,  669 
Mutterkorntinktur,  1617 
Mutterkorn  wein,  1705 
Mutterkraut,  1198 
Mutterkummel,  559 
Mutternelken,  417 
Mutterpflaster,  609 
Mutton-suet,  1444 
Myagrum  sativum,  1154 
Myall-wood,  8 
Mycoderma  aceti,  12 
Mylabris,  397 
bifasciata,  402 
cichorii,  397,  402 
lunata,  402 
phalerata,  397 
Mynsicht’s  elixir,  103 
Myrcia  acris,  1136 
Myrcienol,  1136 
Myrica,  1064 
asplenifolia,  526 
cerifera,  1064,  1065 
Comptonia,  526 
Gale,  1065 
I Myricin,  431,  999 
j Myrieyl  palmitate,  431,  999 
Myristica,  10(>5 
aromatica,  1065 
Becuhyba,  1138 
fatua,  1066 
fragrans,  1003,  1065 
moschata,  1065 
officinalis,  1065,  1138 
I Otoba,  1138 


I Myristica  sebifera,  1138 
I Myristicene,  Myristicol,  1138 
I Myristin,  1138 
Myrobalan,  1067 
Myrobalanus  spec. , 1067 
Myrosin,  1445 

Myrospermum  balsamiferum,  321 
Pereirae,  318 
toluiferum,  321 
Myroxocarpin,  318 
Myroxylon  Pereirae,  318 
pedicellatum,  321 
peruiferum,  318,  321 
punctatum,  321 
toluifera,  320 
Myrrh,  1067 
Myrrha,  1067 
Myrrhentinktur,  1628 
Myrsine  africana,  910 
Myrte,  1069 
Myrtle,  1069 
wax,  1064 
Myrtus  acris,  1136 
Arragon,  1069 
Caryophyllus,  416 
Chekan,  1069 
communis,  1069 
Pimenta,  1247 

NABALUS  albus,  813,  1317 
Nabelkraut,  546 
Nachtkerze,  1088 
Nackte  Aralienwurzel,  275 
Nagelein,  416 
Naked  broom  rape,  614 
Namoll,  1225 
Napaconitine,  119 
Napelline,  119,  122 
Napthte  acetique,  137 
de  petrole,  333 
Naphtha,  1210 
aceti,  137 
vitrioli,  129 
Naphthalene,  1071 
Naphthalinum,  1071 
Naphthalol,  Naphtosalol,  1073 
Naphthol,  Naphtholum,  1072 
camphorated,  1074 
Naphthylamine,  1071 
Naphtolaristol,  1074 
Naphtopyrine,  227 
Naranjo  agrio,  310 
Narceine,  1171 
Narcisse  des  pres,  1076 
Narcissus  Pseudonarcissus,  1076 
Jonquilla,  1076 
Narcitin,  1076 
Narcotine,  1170 
Nard  americain,  275 
Nardostachys  Jatamansi,  1682 
Nardus  americanus,  275 
celtica,  1682 
indica,  1682 
Naregamia,  317 
alata,  899 

Narthex  Sylphium,  1592 
Nasturtium  Amoracia,  288 
officinale,  513 
palustre,  513 
Natal  aloes,  163 
arrowroot,  204 
Nataloin,  164 
Natrium,  1450 
acetat,  1450 
aceticum,  1450 
arsenat,  1451 
arsenicicum,  1451 
benzoat,  1452 
benzoicum,  125 
biboricum,  1458 
bicar  bonat,  1454 


1836 


Natrium — 
bicarbonicum,  1454 
bisulfat,  1457 
bisulfurosum,  1457 
bromatum,  1460 
carbonicum,  1462 
acidulum,  1454 
crudum,  1463 
siccum,  1464 
causticum,  1448 
chlorat,  1465 
chloratum,  1466 
chloricum,  1465 
ferricitrophospbat,  737 
ferripyropliosphat,  740 
gold  chlorid,  313 
hydricum,  1448 
solutum,  981 

bypophosphorosum,  1469 
hyposulfurosum,  1470 
iodatum,  1472 
nitricum,  1474 
pbospbat,  1476 
pbospboricum,  1476 
pyroborat,  1458 
pyroboricum,  1458 
pyropbosphat,  1479 
pyropbosplioricum,  1479 
ferratum,  740 
salicylat,  1479 
salicylicum,  1479 
santoninat,  1482 
santoninicum,  1482 
silicicum  solutum,  985 
subsulfurosum,  1470 
sulfuricum,  1483 
exsiccatum,  siccum,  1484 
sulfurosum,  1484 
tbiosulfat,  1470 
thiosulfuricum,  1470 
valerianicum,  1488 
Natro-kali  tartaricum,  1298 
Natron,  1448 
arsensaures,  985,  1451 
baldriansaures,  1488 
benzoesaures,  1452 
borsaures,  1458 
doppeltkoblensaures,  1454 
doppeltscbwefligsaures,  1457 
essigsaures,  1450 
kolilensaures,  1462 
phenylat,  1487 
phenylscbwefelsaures,  1486 
phospborsaures,  1476 
salpetrigsaures,  1475 
scbwefligsaures,  1484 
unterpbospborigsaures,  1469 
unterschwefligsaures,  1470 
wasserglass,  985 
weinschwefelsaures,  1487 
Natronpastillen,  1655 
Natrum.  See  Natrium. 
Natterkopf,  350 
Natter wurz,  775 
Nauclea  acida,  427 
Garabir,  427 
Navel  wort,  546 
Neb-neb,  5 
Nectandra,  325,  1077 
Pucbury  major,  1077 
minor,  1077 
Kodi®i,  1077 
Nectandrine,  326,  1077 
Negro  coffee,  361 
Nelkenliolz,  417 
Nelkenol,  1116 
Nelkenpfeffer,  1217 
Nelkenpfefferol,  1143 
N elkenpfeffer- W asse  r,  264 
Nelkenstiele,  417 
Nelkenzinmit,  502 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


Nenuphar,  1087 
Nepal  cardamoms,  413 
Nepali  ne,  120 
Nepaul  aconite-root,  119 
Nepeta  Cataria,  424,  1031 
citriodora,  425,  1031 
Glechoma,  777 
Nepbrodium  Filix  mas,  301 
marginale,  301 
Neriodorin,  1096 
Nerium  odoratum,  odorum,  1096 
Oleander,  1095 
tinctoria,  865 
Neroli,  1112 
Nero  di  ossa,  405 
Nerprun,  1374 
Nessler’s  reagent,  250 
Nettle,  1676 
Neuenahr  spring,  267 
Neugewurz,  1247 
New  Granada  rhatany,  912 
Jersey  tea,  429 
Zealand  flax,  1216 
Ngai  camphor,  388 
Nicandra  pbysaloides,  159 
Niccoli  bromidum,  1080 
carbonas,  1080 
chloridum,  1080 
sulphas,  1079 
Nickel,  1080 

ammonium  sulphate,  1080 
bromide,  1080 
carbonate,  1080 
chloride,  1080 
sulphate,  1079 
Nicotiana  Tabacum,  1573 
spec.,  1574 
Nicotiane,  1573 
Nicotine,  394,  1574 
Niesswurz,  541,  808 
Niesswurzextrakt,  809 
Nieswurztinktur,  810 
Nigella  damascena,  1081 
sativa,  1081 
Nigellin,  1081 
Night-blooming  cereus,  356 
Nigrosine,  212 
Nihil  album,  1726 
Nim-bark,  317 
tree,  316 

Ninfa,  Ninfea,  1087 
Niota  pentapetala,  1339 
Nitras  argenticus,  278 
fusus,  281 
hydrargyrosus,  968 
kalicus,  1307 
plumbicus,  1264 
potassicus,  1307 
sodicus,  1474 
Nitrate  d’argent,  278 
fondu,  281 

de  bismuth  neutre,  344 
de  Chili,  1474 
de  plomb,  1264 
de  potass®,  1307 
de  soude,  1474 
mercurique,  967 
Nitrato  de  ammoniaco,  189 
di  argento  cristallizzato,  278 
di  plata,  278 
Nitre,  1307 
ammoniacal,  189 
cubique,  1474 
de  Chili,  1474 
inflammable,  189 
lunaire,  278 
prismatique,  1307 
Nitric  anhydride,  73 
Nitrite  de  soude,  1475 
Nitrito  de  amilo,  195 
Nitrobenzene,  1081,  1106 


Nitrobenzenum,  1081 
Nitrochloroform,  87 
Nitrocodeine,  515 
Nitrogen  pentoxide,  73 
Nitrogenii  monoxidum,  1082 
Nitroglycerin,  779,  1504 
Nitroglycerinum,  1507 
Nitronaphthalene,  1071 
Nitropentane,  197,  1082 
Nitrotrichlormethane,  87 
Nitroso-camphor,  388 
Nitrous  oxide,  1082 
Nitrosyl  chloride,  77 
Nitroxylene,  1717 
Nitrum  cubicum,  1472 
depuratum,  1307 
flammans,  189 
tabulatum,  1307 
Nitrylic  chloride,  77 
Nogal,  904 
Noir  d’os,  405 
Noisetier,  545 
Noisettia  pyrifolia,  1711 
Noix  d’arec,  276 
de  cola,  362 
de  galle,  764 
de  gourou,  362 
de  muscade,  1065 
de  sassafras,  1077 
vomiques,  1084 
Nombril  de  Venus,  546 
Nordhausen  oil  of  vitriol,  98 
Northern  prickly  ash,  1716 
Norway  spruce  fir,  1252 
Noyer  gris,  904 
Nuccs  col®,  362 
Nucin,  905 
Nuez  mosedda,  1065 
vomica,  1084 
Nunnari,  810 
Nuphar  spec.,  1088 
Nut  oil,  905 
pine,  1158 
Nutgall,  764,  765 
Nutmeg,  1065 
butter,  1138 
flower,  1081 
long,  male,  1066 
wild,  1066 
Nux  moschata,  1065 
vomica,  1084 
Nymph®a  alba,  1088 
odorata,  1087 
Nyssa  candicans,  927 
capitata,  927 
grandidentata,  927 

OAK  balls,  765 
bark,  1340 
manna,  1019 
Oatmeal,  316 
Oberhefe,  437 
Ochsengalle,  714 
gereinigte,  715 
Ocopetate,  759 
Ocotea  guianensis,  1077 
opifera,  1077 
Pucbury  major,  1077 
Ocuba  wax,  1138 
Oculi  cancrorum,  553 
Oeulina  virginea,  553 
Ocymum  Basilicum,  933 
Odermennig,  145 
Oele,  1089,  1092 
Oelharze,  1100 
Oelsaure,  78 
Oelseife,  1417 
Oelsiiss,  778 
CEnanthe  crocata,  477 
fistulosa,  477 
Phellandrium,  1213 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


1837 


(Enantkin,  477 
(Euoles,  1697 
CEuotkera  biennis,  1088 
CEsypum,  126 
Ogeeckee  lime,  927 
Oignon,  160 
Oil,  allspice,  1143 
almond,  expressed,  1107 
sweet,  1107 
amber,  1155 
rectified,  1156 
ammoniac,  179 
animal,  Dippel’s,  768,  1109 
rectified,  1109 
anise,  1110 
apple,  1489 
apricot-seed,  1108 
arbor  vitae,  1598 
asafoetida,  296 
Asarum  canadense,  297 
bankul,  1130 
bay,  bay-leaves,  1136 
berries,  931 
beeck,  1126 
beken,  ben,  1154 
benne,  1152 
bergamot,  1113 
betula,  1124 
birck,  338 
bitter,  1587 
almond,  1105 
artificial,  1081,  1106 
iodinized,  1107 
orange,  1112 
black  pepper,  1102 
bone,  1109 
Brazil  nuts,  1126 
cade,  1114 
cajuput,  1114 
calamus,  368 
callicoonah,  317 
camphor,  388 
camphorated,  940 
Canada  erigeron,  1121 
candlenut,  1130 
caraway,  1116 
carron,  940 
cassia,  1118 
castor,  422,  1144 
Ceylon  cinnamon,  1118 
chamomile,  1111 
chaulmugra,  803 
chenopodium,  1118 
Chinese  cinnamon,  1119 
chlorinated,  1141 
cinnamon,  1118 
leaves,  1119 
root,  1119 
cloves,  1116 
coal,  1209,  1210 
cocoanut,  1120 
cod-liver,  1132 
colza,  1447 
copaiba,  1120 
coriander,  1121 
cotton-seed,  1125 
crab,  317 
croton,  1163 
cubeb,  1121 
cumin,  560 
dead,  332 
dill,  1108 
dugong,  1132 
egg,  1714 
elecampane,  875 
elloopa,  1161 
ethereal,  1103 
eucalyptus,  1122 
fennel,  1122 
fir-wool,  1586 
flaxseed,  1129 


Oil— 

fusel,  156,  157 
galbanum,  762 
garden  lavender,  1128 
garlic,  160 
gaultheria,  1123 
geranium,  1148 
ginger,  1736 
ginger-grass,  1148 
gingili,  1152 
grape-seed,  1130 
grapes,  1508 
ground-nut,  1153 
gurjun,  540 
hazelnut,  545 
hedeoma,  1126 
hemlock,  1254 
hempseed,  395 
horsemint,  1046 
kyoscyamus,  854 
hyssop,  858 
illoopa,  1161 
juniper,  1127 
berries,  1127 
wood,  1127 
kekune,  1130 
kundak,  317 
kurung,  1153 
lard,  124,  1103 
lavender,  1128 
flowers,  1127 
lemon,  1128 

Levant  wormseed,  1413 
light,  332, 
linseed,  1129 
mace,  1138 
madia,  1130 
mangosteen,  766 
menhaden,  1132 
mirbane,  1081 
mustard,  fixed,  1445 
volatile,  1154 
myrcia,  1136 
myrrh,  1068 
neat’s  foot,  1114 
neroli,  1112 
nicker-seed,  1154 
niger-seed,  1130 
nut,  905 
nutmeg,  1137 
expressed,  1138 
volatile,  1137 
olive,  1138 
orange,  1111,  1112 
origanum,  1161,  1184 
orris,  900 
palm,  1142 
parsley,  1212 
patchouly,  1031 
peach-seed,  1108 
pea-nut,  1153 
pennyroyal,  1126 
pepper,  1248 
peppermint,  1130 
Chinese,  1131 
phosphorated,  1142 
pimenta,  1143 
pine-leaf,  1586 
poppy-seed,  1192 
rapeseed,  1447 
ray,  1134 
red,  858 
cedar,  1392 
rhodium,  1148 
rock,  1209 
rose,  1145 
geranium,  1148 
rosemary,  1148 
roshe,  11.48 
rosin,  1365 
rue,  1149 


Oil- 
sage,  1405 
saudal-wood,  1150 
santal,  1150 
sassafras,  1152 
savin,  1150 
seneca,  1210 
sesamum,  1152 
shark,  1134 
skate,  1134 
soy,  1154 
spearmint,  1132 
sperm,  1132 
spermaceti,  440 
spike  lavender,  1128 
spruce,  1254 
star-anise,  1110 
still  ingia,  1515 
sunflower,  808 
sweet,  1138 
birch,  338,  1124 
orange,  1112 
tambor,  1145 
tansy,  1579 
tar,  1143, 1255 
taragon,  4,  1110 
teel,  1152 

theobroma,  1161,  1596 
thyme,  1162 
tobacco,  1575 
train,  1134 
tucum,  1142 
turpentine,  1156 
rectified,  1157 
valerian,  1166 
virgin,  1139 
vitriol,  97 

Nordkausen,  98,  99 
whale,  1134 
wine,  heavy,  1103 
light,  1105 
wintergreen,  1123 
synthetical,  1039 
wood,  538 

wormseed,  1118,  1412 
wormwood,  4 
Oils,  distilled,  1089 
drying,  1094 
essential,  1089 
ethereal,  1089 
fatty,  1092 
ferment,  1089 
fixed,  1092 
lubricating,  1193 
neutral,  1193 
paraffin,  1193 
volatile,  1089 
Ointment,  1659 
aconitia,  1660 

ammoniated  mercury,  1665 
antimonial,  1660 
atropine,  1661 
basilicon,  436 
belladonna,  1661 
benzoin,  124 
blue,  1664 
cantharides,  1661 
carbolic  acid,  1659 
chrysarobin,  1662 
citrine,  1666 
creosote,  1662 
cucumber,  559 
diachylon,  1663 
elemi,  1663 
galls  and  opium,  1663 
glycerin  of  lead  subacetate 
435 

Hebra’s  itch,  1672 
lead,  1663 
Hellmund’s,  1670 
iodide  of  sulphur,  1672 


1838 


Ointment — 
iodine,  1668 
compound,  1669 
iodoform,  1669 
lead  acetate,  1670 
carbonate,  1670 
iodide,  1670 
mercurial,  1664. 
mercury,  1664 
compound,  1666 
mezereon,  1040 
nitrate  of  mercury,  1666 
nutgall,  1663 
ophthalmic,  1668 
opium,  692 
paraffin,  1208 
petroleum,  soft,  1208 
potassium  iodide,  1671 
red  iodide  of  mercury,  1666 
mercuric  oxide,  1667 
rose-water,  1660 
savin,  436 
simple,  1659 
spermaceti,  1662 
stramonium,  1671 
subchloride  of  mercury,  1668 
sulphur,  1671 
alkaline,  1671 
compound,  1672 
sulphurated  potash,  1670 
tannic  acid,  1659 
tar,  1669 
compound,  1669 
Wolff’s,  1669 

tartarated  antimony,  1660 
tobacco,  1575 
turpentine,  1672 
veratria,  1672 
white  precipitate,  1665 
Wilkinson’s,  1672 
yellow  oxide  of  mercury,  1667 
zinc  oxide,  1672 
Ointments,  1658 
Ojos  de  cangrejos,  553 
Okra,  168 
Old  man,  4 

sulphur  well,  266 
Oldfield  pine,  1584 
Olea  aetherea,  1089 
cocta,  1141 
destillata,  1089 
europaea,  1138 
infusa,  1141 
pinguia,  1092 
volatilia,  1089 
Oleander,  1095 
Oleandrine,  1096 
Oleata,  1097 
Oleate  of  copper,  564 
Oleates,  1097 

Oleatum  hydrargyri,  1098 
veratrinae,  1099 
zinci,  1099 

Olefiant  gas,  1104,  1210 
Olefins,  1193,  1210 
Olein,  Olin,  1094,  1444 
Oleite,  79 
Oleoinfiisions,  1141 
Oleol  of  chamomile,  216 
Oleoles,  Oleols,  1141 
Oleoresin  of  aspidium,  1100 
of  capsicum,  1101 
of  cubebs,  1101 
of  ginger,  1103 
of  lupulin,  1102 
of  male  fern,  1100 
of  pepper,  1102 
Oleoresina  aspidii,  1100 
capsid,  1101 
cubebae,  1101 
filicis,  1100 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


Oleoresina — 
lupulinae,  1102 
lupulini,  1102 
piperis,  1102 
zingiberis,  1103 
Oleoresinae,  1100 
Oleoresins,  1100 
Oleum  absinthii,  3 
adipis,  1103 
aethereum,  1103 
amygdalae,  1107 
amarae,  1105 
dulcis,  1107 
expressum,  1107 
amygdalarum,  1107 
aethereum,  1105 
amararum,  1105 
anethi,  1108 

animale  aethereum,  1109 
Dippelii,  1109 
anisi,  215,  1110 
anthemidis,  1111 
infusum,  216 
anthos,  1148 
aurantii  corticis,  1111 
florum,  1112 
aurantiorum,  1111 
baccae  juniperi,  1127 
balaenae,  1134 
balsami  copaivae,  1120 
bergami,  1113 
bergamottae,  1113 
betulae  empyreumaticum,  1255 
volatile,  1124 
bubulum,  1114 
cacao,  1161 
cadinum,  1114 
cajeputi,  1114 
cajuputi,  1114 
calami,  368 
camphorae,  388 
camphoratum,  940 
cari,  carui,  1116 
carvi,  1116 
caryophylli,  1116 
caryophyllorum,  1116 
cassiae,  1119 
ceti,  1134 

chamomillae  aethereum,  1026 
citratum,  1027 
infusum,  1027 
romanae,  1111 
chenopodii,  1118 
chlorinatum,  1141 
cinnamomi,  1118 
cassiae,  1119 
foliorum,  1119 
radicis,  1119 
zeylanici,  1118 
citri,  1128 
cocois,  cocos,  1120 
concretum  e semine  theo- 
bromae  cacao,  1161 
copaibae,  1120 
coriandri,  1121 
crotonis,  1163 
cubebae,  1121 
cubebarum,  1121 
de  cedro,  1128 
e fructi  iauri,  931 
erigerontis  canadensis,  1121 
eucalvpti,  1122 
fagi,  1126 
filicis  maris,  1100 
florum  naphae,  1112 
fceniculi,  1122 
fructus  juniperi,  1127 
gaultheriae,  1123 
gossypii,  1125 
seminis,  1125 
hedeomae,  806,  1126 


I Oleum — 

hepatis  morrhuae,  1132 
hippocastani,  814 
hyoscyami  infusum,  854 
hyperici,  858 
jecoris  aselli,  1132 
juniperi,  1127 

empyreumaticum,  1114 
Iauri,  laurinum.  931 
expressum,  931 
unguinosum,  931 
lavandulae,  1127 
florum,  1127 
ligni  santali,  1150 
limonis,  1128 
lini,  1129 
sulfuratum,  1130 
macidis,  1138 
majoranae,  1184 
martis  per  deliquium,  720 
menthae  piperitae,  1130 
viridis,  1132 
monardae,  1046 
morrhuae,  1132 
ferratum,  1134 
iodatum,  1134 
myrciae,  1136 
myristicae,  1137 
expressum,  1138 
naphae,  1112 
neroli,  1112 
nucistae,  1138 
aethereum,  1137 
expressum,  1137 
olivae,  olivarum,  1138 
commune,  1140 
origani,  1184 
ovi,  1714 
palmae,  1142 
Christi,  1144 
papaveris,  1192 
pedum  tauri,  1114 
petrae,  1209 
italicum,  1210 
phosphoratum,  1140 
picis  liquidae,  1143 
pimentae,  1143 
pini  foliorum,  1586 

sylvestris  foliorum,  1586 
provinciate,  1140 
rajae,  1134 
ricini,  1144 
rosae,  rosarum,  1147 
rosmarini,  1148 
rusci,  1255 
rutae,  1149 
sabinae,  1150 
santali,  1150 
sassafras,  1152 
sesami,  1152 
sinapis,  1154 
aethereum,  1154 
volatile,  1154 
squali,  1134 
succini,  1155 
rectificatum,  1156 
tabaci,  1575 
tanaceti,  1579 

tartari  per  deliquium,  1289 
templinum,  1586 
terebinthinae,  1156 
rectificatum,  1157 
sulfuratum,  1130 
theobromae,  theobromatis,  1161 
thy  mi,  1162 
tiglii,  1163 
valerianae,  1166 
vini,  1103 

vitrioli  dulce  verum,  130 
Olibanum,  1166 
Olibene,  1166 


GENERAL  INDEX . 


1839 


Olivenol,  1138 

Olivier  a larges  feuilles,  927 

Olivine,  1005 

Olma,  1657 

Ombligo  de  Venus,  546,  851 
Omphacium,  1677 
Omphalea  oleifera,  1145 
Onagre,  1088 
One-grained  wheat,  713 
Onguent  basilicon,  456 
blanc,  435 
de  Rhazes,  1670 
citrin,  1666 
d’Arcaeus,  1663 
de  blanc  de  baleine,  1662 
de  la  mere,  609 
diachylon,  1663 
digestif  simple,  1672 
mercurielle,  1664 
populeum,  1661 
terebinthine,  1672 
Onguents,  1658 
Onguents-emplatres,  598 
Onion,  160 
Ononis  spinosa,  787 
Onocerin,  Ononid,  Ononin,  787 
Onosma  echioides,  350 
Ophelia  angustifolia,  451 
Chirata,  451 
pulchella,  451 
Opiane,  1173 
Opianyl,  1173 
Opiat  de  soufre,  530 
terebinthine,  530 
Opii  pul  vis,  1167 
Opium,  1167 
denarcotisatum,  1168 
deodoratum,  1168,  1175 
lozenges,  1652 
varieties,  1168 
Opium-Essig,  15 
Opiumextrakt,  691,  692 
Opium-Klystier,  613 
Opiumlatwerge,  529 
Opiumliniment,  941 
Opiumpastillen,  1652 
Opiumpflaster,  604 
Opiumpillen,  1244 
Opiumtinktur,  1629 
ammoniakalische,  1631 
benzoesaurehaltige,  1631 
safranhaltige,  1707 
Opobalsamum,  1069 
Opodeldoc,  liquid,  942 
Opoponax  Chironium,  1182 
Opuntia  cochinilifera,  511 
ficus  indica,  511 
Hernandezii,  511 
vulgaris,  356,  357 
Or,  314 
blanc,  1257 
Orange  amere,  310 
berries,  311 
bitter,  310 
flowers,  313 
grass,  858 
leaves,  311 
mineral,  1266 
peel,  310,  312 
root,  849 

Seville,  310  . 

wine,  1704 

Orange-flower  water,  254 
Orangenbliithen,  313 
Orangenbl  ii  then  - W asser,  254 
Orangengeist,  1502 
Oranger,  313 

Orange  swallow-wort,  298 
Orangettes,  311 
Orbicules,  1650 
Orcannette,  350 


| Orchil,  924 
Orchis  spec.,  1399 
Orcin,  924 
| Ordeal  bean,  1220 
I Oregon  balsam  of  fir,  1585 
grape,  337 

Oreille  de  souris,  813 
' Orellana,  291 
Orellin,  291 

Oreodaphne  californica,  1427 
opifera,  1077 

j Oreoselin,  Oreoselon,  865 
Orexine  hydrochloride,  451 
Orge  perle,  817 
Oriental  amethyst,  174 
emerald,  174 
topaz,  174 
valonia,  765 
Origanum,  1183 
creticum,  1184 
Dictamnus,  1184 
liirtum,  1184 
Majorana,  1184 
vulgare,  1183 
Orlean,  Orleana,  291 
Orme,  1657 
a trois  feuilles,  1321 
champetre,  1657 
fauve,  1657 
Orni,  752 

I Ornus  europsea,  1017 
Oro,  314 

Oroljanclie  americana,  614 
uniflora,  614 
virginiana,  614 
Orozuz,  786 
Orpiment,  293 
Orris-root,  900 
Florentine,  900 
Orseille,  924 
de  terre,  924 
Orthocresol,  40 
Orthodioxybenzene,  1371 
Orthosporum  anthelminticum,  446 
Orthotoluidine,  212 
Ortie  blanche,  934 
brulante,  1676 
rouge,  934 
Ortigo,  1676 
Oryza  sativa,  203 
Orzo  perlado,  817 
Os,  1184 
de  seche,  553 
sepiae,  553 
ustum,  1185 
Oseille  de  Guinee,  168 
Osha,  936 

Osmium  tetroxide,  48 
Osseter,  860 
Ossido  di  calcio,  379 
Ostindischer  Enzian,  451 
Ostrea  edulis,  553 
Oswego  tea,  1046 
Otoba  butter,  1138 
Otolithus  regalis,  860 
Otto  of  rose,  1147 
Ottonia  Jaborandi,  1230 
Outremer,  176 
Ovis  Ammon,  1444 
Aries,  1444 
Musi  m on,  1444 
| Ovum,  1713 

gallinaceum,  1713 
Ox  tongue,  350 
Oxalas  cericus,  438 
ferrosus,  745 
j Oxalate  de  cerium,  438 
de  fer,  745 

Oxalis  Acetosella,  1185 
corniculata,  1185 
I stricta,  1185 


Oxalsaure,  80 
Ox-bile,  714 
Ox-eye  daisy,  1334 
Oxidation,  1186 
Oxidum.  See  Oxydum. 

Ox-gall,  714 
Oxides,  1186 
Oxido  de  antimonio,  221 
Oxyacantkine,  337 
Oxyeampkor,  388 
Oxycannabine,  394 
Oxychlorure  ammoniacal  de  mer- 
cure,  846 
de  bismuth,  344 
Oxyde  d’antimoine,  221 
d’argent,  285 
de  bismuth,  340 
de  cuivre,  563 
de  fer  hydrate,  734 
noir,  735 
magnetique,  735 
de  manganese,  1014 
de  mercurejaune,  836 
precipite,  836 
de  methyl,  132 
de  plomb,  1265,  1266 
ferroso-ferrique,  735 
mercurique,  836,  837 
nitreux,  1082 
puce  de  plomb,  1266 
rouge  de  plomb,  1266 
zinc,  1726 

par  voie  kumide,  1726 
seche,  1726 
venale,  1726 

Oxydum  antimonicum,  221 
argenticum,  285 
bismuthicum,  340 
calcicum,  379 
aqua  solutum,  952 
ferricum  liydratum,  735 
ferroso-ferricum,  735 
hydrargyricum,  837 
manganicum,  1014 
plumbi,  1265 
potassicum,  1269 
stibicum,  221 
zincicum,  1726 
Oxygen,  1186 
hydrate,  261 
Oxygenated  water,  261 
Oxygenium,  1186 
Oxyiodure  de  bismuth,  345 
Oxyleucotin,  1078 
Oxymel,  1187 
of  squill,  1188 
scilke,  1188 
simplex,  1187 
Oxymcllita,  1029 
Oxymellite  simple,  1187 
Oxymels,  1029 
Oxymercuric  sulphate,  838 
Oxymorphine,  1171 
Oxynarcotine,  1172 
Oxyquinaseptol,  451 
Oyster-shell,  prepared,  553 
Ozokerite,  431,  1192 
Ozone,  1186 

PACHYMA  cocos,  1000 
Pseonia  Moutan,  1188 
officinalis,  1 188 
peregrina,  1188 
Pain  de  coucou,  1185 
de  grenouilles,  158 
de  pourceau,  572 
de  singes,  123 
Paint,  phosphorescent,  384 
Pajarilla,  758 
Pakukidang,  759 
Palas  kino,  911 


1840 


Pale  brandy,  1508 
catechu,  427 
cinchona,  479 
Palm  butter,  1142 
Palmitin,  1140,  1444 
Palmol,  1142 
Palo  de  Campeche,  809 
de  leche,  752 
de  vaca,  752 
del  soldado,  1024 
dulce,  786 
santo,  796 
Palommier,  767 
Pampini  vitis,  1677 
Pan  de  puerco,  572 
Panacon,  275 
Panaquilon,  275 
Panax  Ginseng,  275 
quinquefolia,  275 
Pancreatin,  1188 
Pancreatinum,  1188 
Panetiere,  399 
Pani  du  maharao,  566 
Panicaut,  624 
Panna-root,  302 
Pansy,  1710 
Paopereira,  1093 
Papain,  1204 
Papaver,  1191 
dubium,  1380 
officinale,  1191 
orientale,  1048 
Rhceas,  1380 
setigerum,  1191 
somniferum,  1048,  1167,  1191 
Papaverin,  1192 
Papaverine,  1171 
Papaverosine,  1192 
Papaw,  1204 
Papaya  vulgaris,  1204 
Papayotin,  1204 
Paper,  antirheumatic,  442 
blistering,  443 
cantharides,  443 
mustard,  444 
paraffin,  443 
potassium  nitrate,  444 
saltpetre,  443 
wax,  443 

Papers,  medicated,  442 
Papier  antirheumatique,  442 
a vesicatoire  aux  cantharides, 
443 

au  garou,  442 
epispastique,  443 
nitre,  443 
sinapise,  444 
vesicant,  443 

Papiere,  medicamentirte,  442 
Papiers  sparadrapiques,  442 
Pappoose-root,  428 
Paprika,  404 
Paquerette,  434 
Para  copaiva,  537 
rubber,  593 
rhatany,  913 
sarsaparilla,  1423 
Para-acetanisidine,  1215 
Para-acetphenetidine,  1214 
Parabuxine,  1077 
Paraconiine,  532 
Paracoto-bark,  1078 
Paracotoin,  1078 
Paracresol,  40 
Paracress,  514,  1334 
Paracyanogeu,  66 
Paradigitalein,  582 
Paradioxybenzene,  1371 
Paraffin,  431,  1192,  1255 
butter,  jelly,  1208 
fliissiges,  1208 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


Paraffin — 
oils,  1193 
paper,  443 
soft,  1208 

Paraffinsalbe,  1208 
Paraffinum  durum,  1192 
liquidum,  1192,  1208 
molle,  unguinosum,  1192,  1208 
solidum,  1192 
Paraguay  roux,  1334 
tea,  862 

Parakresse,  1334 
Parakressentinktur,  1334 
Paraldehyde,  Paraldehydum,  1194 
Paramenispermine,  1226 
Parameria  vulneraria,  1096 
Paramorphine,  1171 
Para-nuts,  1126 
Paraoxyethylacetanilid,  1214 
Paraoxymethylacetanilid,  1214 
Pararabin,  7 
Pararosaniline,  212 
Paraphenetolcarbamide,  1393 
Paratoluidine,  212 
Paregoric  elixir,  1631 
Pareira,  1196 
brava,  1196 
extrakt,  693 
infusion,  1198 
Pareirawurzel-Absud,  578 
Paricine,  488 
Parietaire,  1198 
Parietaria  erecta,  1198 
officinalis,  1198 
pennsylvanica,  1198 
Parillin,  1424 
Paris  blue,  729 
green,  565 
red,  839,  1266 
white,  552 
yellow,  1279 
Parmelia  parietina,  1378 
Parody ne,  226 
Paropis  edulis,  1200 
Parsley,  1211 
camphor,  1212 
spotted,  477 
Parthenium,  1198 
hysterophorus,  1199 
integrifolium,  1199 
Partridge-berry,  767,  1045 
Pas  d’ane,  1656 
Pasque-flower,  1322 
Passerage  iberide,  514 
Passe-rose,  168 
Passiflora  spec.,  1199,  1200 
Passion-flower,  1199 
Passion  sblume,  1199 
Passulse,  1677 
majores,  1678 
minoris,  1678 
Pasta  althsese,  8 
glycyrrhizfe,  787 
guarana,  800 
gummosa,  8 
liquiritise,  787 
Paste,  Michel’s,  102 
Pastil  colors,  552 
Pastillen,  1649 
Pastilles,  1649 
de  chocolate,  1650 
de  cubebe,  1652 
de  menthe  Anglaises,  1654 
a la  goutte,  1650 
de  morphine,  1654 
d’opium,  1652 
de  tannin,  1650 
de  Vichy,  1655 
digestives,  1655 
fumigating,  1167 
reglisse  opiacees,  1652 


Pastilles,  sugar,  1649 
Pastilli  sacchari,  1650 
Pastinaca  hastata,  1134 
Opopanax,  1182 
Pastinacine,  477 
Patience,  1388 
Pate  de  Canquoin,  1723 
de  gomme,  8 
de  guimauve,  8 
de  jujubes,  906 
de  reglisse,  787 
Patera  oster-Erbsen,  1 
Patrinia  scabiosrefolia,  1682 
Paullinia  Cupana,  800 
Cururu,  566 
sorbilis,  800 
Pavot,  blanc,  1191 
cornu,  445 
rouge,  1380 
Payta  rhatany,  912 
Paytamine,  Paytine,  485,  489 
Peach,  1207 
gum,  1122 
Pearlash,  1288 
Pearl  barley,  817 
sago,  205 
white,  344 

Pearls,  medicinal,  768 
Pecan-nuts,  905 
Pech,  schwarzes,  1255 
Pechpflaster  mit  Canthariden,  604 
Pecher,  1207 
Pechol,  1143 
Pectase,  54 
Pectin,  Pectose,  1643 
Pectoral  drops,  Bateman’s,  1632 
tea,  169 
Pedgery,  854 
Pegu  catechu,  425 
Pelargonium  roseum,  1148 
Pelletierine,  793 
Pellitory,  1198,  1333 
of  Spain,  1333 
Pelosine,  1198 
Pensea  mucronata,  1420 
Sarcocolla,  1420 
Penang  benzoin,  335 
Pencils,  iodoform,  1669 
metallic  writing,  843 
of  zinc  chloride,  1723 
Penghawar  djambi,  759 
Penicaut,  624 

Pennsylvania  sumach,  1380 
Penny-cress,  514 
mustard,  514 
Pennyroyal,  806 
Pennywort,  546 
Pensee,  1710 
Pental,  200,  201 
Pentane,  333 
Pentene,  200 

Penthorum  sedoides,  1435 
Peony,  1188 
Pepe  cubebe,  556 
Pepins  des  coing,  572 
Pepita  de  San  Ignacio,  819 
Pepo,  524,  1200 
Pepper,  1247 
African,  403 
Cayenne,  403 
long,  1248 
Pepper^rass,  514 
Peppermint,  1032 
Peppermint  drops,  1650 
lozenges,  1654 
Pepper-root,  513 
Pepperwort,  514 
Pepsin,  Pepsina,  1201 
saccharated,  1204 
Pepsinum,  1201 
saccharatum,  1204 


Pepsin  wein,  1205 
Peptone,  1204 
Perce-muraille,  1198 
Percha  lamellata,  802 
Perchlorure  de  fer,  719 
de  platine,  1257 
Percolation,  639 
under  pressure,  643 
Peregil,  1211 
Pereirine,  1096 
muriate,  1097 
Perezia  adnata,  1379 
nana,  1879 
Wrightii,  1379 
Pericarpium  granati,  793 
Periparabo,  1025 
Periplaneta  orientalis,  399 
Periploca  emetica,  810 
indica,  810 
Peritre,  1333 
Perlgerste.  817 
Perlgraupen,  817 
Perlmoos,  471 

Permanganate  de  potasse,  1310 
Pernitrate  de  fer  liquide,  963 
de  mercure  liquide,  967 
Peroxyde  de  barium,  322 
de  fer  hydrate  humide,  734 
d’hydrogene,  261 
de  manganese,  1014 
de  mercure,  837 
de  plomb,  1266 
Persea  gratissima,  932 
Persian  balsam,  1609 
berries,  1374 
insect  flowers,  1334 
manna,  1019 
pellitory,  1334 
Persica  vulgaris,  1207 
Persil,  1211 
des  marais,  1436 
Persimmon,  587 
beer,  588 
Persio,  924 

Persulfate  de  fer  liquide,  966 
de  mercure,  839 
Peru  balsam,  318 
white,  318 
Peruvian  bark,  479 
pale,  479 
red,  480 
yellow,  479 
guaiac  resin,  797 
rhatany,  912 
Peruvin,  319 
Petala  rhceados,  1380 
rosse  centifolise,  1385 
gallicse,  1385 
Petersilie,  1211 
Petit  chiendent,  1647 
chene,  1589 
glouteron,  929 
lait,  917 
nard,  275 
Petite  absinthe,  4 
centauree,  1391 
cigue,  531 
mauve,  168 
Petits  grains,  311 
Petrolather,  333 
Petrolatum,  1208 
liquidum,  1208 
molle,  1208 
spissum,  1208 
Petrole,  1209 
Petroleum,  1209 
benzin,  333,  1210 
crudum,  1210 
Petroselinum,  1211 
sativum,  1211 
Pettymorrel,  275 
116 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


Peucedanin,  864 
Peucedanum  graveolens,  209 
officinale,  864,  865,  936 
Oreoselinum,  865 
Ostruthium,  864 
palustre,  1436 
Peumus  Boldus,  347 
fragrans,  347 
Pewter,  1511 
Pez  amarilla,  1252 
de  Borgona,  1252 
de  Canada,  1253 
griega,  1364 
negra,  1255 
Pfaffenhutchen,  629 
Pfaffenrohrchen,  1580 
Pfeffer,  1247 
Pfefferextrakt,  1102 
Pfefferkraut,  514 
Pfefferlatwerge,  529 
Pfefferminze,  1032 
Pfefferminz-Essenz,  625,  1506 
Pfefferminzkuchen,  1650 
Pfefferminzpastillen,  1654 
] Pfefferminzol,  1046,  1130 
| Pfefferminzsirup,  1033 
j Pfefferminzwasser,  264 
■ Pfennigkraut,  1318 
j Pferdeminze,  1045 
| Pfingstrose,  1188 
| Pfirsich,  1207 
Pflanzensafte,  1534 
| Pfiaster,  598 
I Pflaume,  1319 
j Pfriemenkraut,  1431 
| Phseoretin,  1378 
Phagedanisches  Wasser,  998 
Phalaris  canariensis,  1213 
Pharbitis  Nil,  903 
triloba,  903 
Pharbitisin,  903 
Phaseolus  vulgaris,  714 
Phaseo-mannit,  1396 
Phasianus  gallus,  1713 
Pheasant’s  eye,  128 
Phellandrie,  1213 
Phellandrin,  1214 
Phellandrium  aquaticum,  1213 
Phenacetin,  1214 
I Phenacetinum,  1214 
Phenamid,  211 

I Phenazone,  Phenazonum,  226 
Phenedin,  1216 
Phenerythen,  38 
Phenic  alcohol,  37 
| Phenocoll  hydrochloride,  1215 
Phenol,  37 
camphor,  388 
iodatum,  39 
iodized,  39,  889 
sodique,  1487 
I Phenolata,  388 
Phenolglycerit,  782 
Phenolid,  11 
I Phenolsalbe,  1659 
j Phenolum  iodatum,  889 
I Phenolwasser,  39 
I Phenopyrine,  227 
, Phenosalyl,  40,  45 
j Phenylacetamide,  8 
Phenylalkohol,  37 
Phenylamine,  211 
Phenylbenzamid,  9 
Phenylcarbylamine,  9 
Phenyldiiodosalicylate,  1403 
Phenylglycerit,  782 
Phenylhydrazine,  1215 
Phenylisocyanide,  9 
Phenylmethyl-ketone,  11 
Phenylsalicylat,  1403 
Phenylsaure,  37 


1841 


I Phenylurethane,  1674 
Phloroglucin,  386,  772,  913 
Phlorol,  547 

Phlox  Carolina,  glaberrima,  1492 
J Phoradendron  flavescens,  1712 
Phormine,  1171 
Phormium  tenax,  1216 
Phosgene  gas,  463 
Phosplias  ammonicus,  190 
calcicus  prsecipitatus,  374 
ferricus,  739 
ferroso-ferricus,  738 
natricus,  1476 
sodicus,  1476 

Phosphate  d’ammoniaque,  190 
de  chaux  hydrate,  374 
de  codeine,  515 
de  fer,  738 
de  potasse,  1478 
de  soude,  1476 
ferrique,  739 
ferroso-ferrique,  738 
Phosphor,  Phosphore,  1217 
Phosphorescent  powder,  384 
Phosphore tted  resin,  1245 
Phosphore  turn  zincicum,  1728 
Phosphoric  anhydride,  82 
oxide,  1218 

Phosphorous  oxide,  1218 
Phosphorsaure,  82 
Phosphorus,  1217 
amorphous,  1217 
Phosphorpillen,  1244 
Phosphorspiritus,  1507 
Phosphorzink,  1728 
Phosphure  de  zinc,  1728 
Photogene,  1210 
Phyllanthus  emblica,  1067 
Phylloxera,  410 
Physalin,  159,  772 
Physalis  Alkekengi,  159,  772 
pennsylvanica,  159 
peruviana,  159 
pubescens,  159 
viscosa,  159 

Physeter  macrocephalus,  177,  439, 
1134 

Physic-nut,  567 
Physosterin,  1221 
Physostigma,  1220 
cylindrosperma,  1221 
venenosum,  1220 
Physostigma- Ex  trakt,  694 
Physostigminse  liydrobromas,  1224 
salicylas,  1224 
sulphas,  1224 
Physostigmine,  1221 
salts,  1224 

Physostigminum  salicylicum,1224 
sulphuricum,  1224 
Phytolacca  acinosa,  1225 
decandra,  1225 
drastica,  1225 
octandra,  1225 
Phytolaque,  1225 
Picamar,  1255 
Picapica,  1063 
Picea  balsamea,  1584 
canadensis,  1253 
excelsa,  obovata,  1252 
Pichi,  712 
Pichurim,  1077 
Pichurimbohnen,  1077 
Pichury  bean,  1077 
Picoline,  1575 
Picrsena  excelsa,  1338 
Picraconine,  119 
Picraconitine,  119 
Picrasma  excelsa,  1338 
Picroglycion,  590 
Picropodophyllin,  1267 


1842 


Picropyrine,  227 
Picrosclerotine,  618 
Picrotin,  1227 
Picrotoxin,  1214 
Picrotoxinum,  1214 
Pie-plant,  1379 
Pied  d’alouette,  1513 
de  cliat,  789 
de  corneille,  773 
Pierre  a cautere,  1269 
de  vin,  1280 
divine,  562 
infernale,  281 
dilue,  280 
oplithalmique,  562 
Pierres  d’ecrevisses,  553 
Pig  iron,  744 
Pigeon  plum,  912 
Pigmentum  indicum,  865 
Pignon  des  Barbades.  567 
d’Inde,  567,  1163 
Pigweed,  447 
Pikrinsaure,  86 
Pikrotoxin,  1214 
Pili  gossypii,  790 
Pill  coating,  1236 
dusting,  1236 
mass,  Vallet’s,  1021 
masses,  1020 

Pill  of  asafetida,  compound,  1244 
of  carbonate  of  iron,  1242 
of  colocyntb,  compound,  1241 
of  colocyntb  and  byoscyamus, 
1242 

of  gamboge,  comp.,  1241 
of  hemlock,  comp.,  1242 
of  ipecacuanha  and  squill,  1244 
of  lead  and  opium,  1245 
of  rhubarb,  comp.,  1245 
of  soap,  comp.,  1246 
phosphorus,  1244 
scammony,  compound,  1246 
squill,  compound,  1246 
Pillen,  1234 
Pillenmassen,  1020 
Pills,  1234 
antibilious,  1241 
Asiatic,  31 
Blancard’s,  1243 
Blaud’s  ferruginous,  1242 
blue,  1022 
chalybeate,  1242 
compound  cathartic,  1241 
compressed,  1238 
ferruginous,  1242 
Lady  Webster  dinner,  1239 
of  aloes,  1238 
and  asafetida,  1239 
and  iron,  1239 
and  mastic,  1239 
and  myrrh,  1240 
of  antimony,  comp.,  1240 
of  asafetida,  1240 
of  copaiba,  1020 
of  ferrous  carbonate,  1021,  1242 
iodide,  1242 

of  galbanum,  comp.,  1244 
of  iron,  1242 
of  lupulin,  999 
of  mercury,  1022 
of  opium,  1244 
of  rhubarb,  1245 
compound,  1245 

of  subchloride  of  mercury,  com- 
pound, 1240 
phosphorus,  1244 
Plummer’s,  1240 
Rufus’s,  1240 
toothache,  1334 
vegetable  cathartic,  1241 
Pilocarpin®  hydrochloras,  1228 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


Pilocarpin®  nitras,  1229 
Pilocarpine,  1230 
hydrochlorate,  1228 
Pilocarpinum  hydrochloricum, 
1228 

Pilocarpus  heteropliyllus,  1229 
Jaborandi,  1229 
officinalis,  1229 
pauciflorus,  1229 
pennatifolius,  piunatus,  1229 
Selloanus,  1229 
Piloselle,  813 

Pilula  aloes  barbadensis,  1239 
socotrin®,  1238 
asafcetid®  composita,  1244 
calomelanos  composita,  1240 
cambogi®  composita,  1241 
colocynthidis  composita,  1241 
et  hyoscyami,  1242 
conii  composita,  1242 
ferri,  1242 

carbonatis,  1021,  1242 
hydrargyri,  1022 

subchloridi  composita,  1240 
ipecacuanh®  cum  scilla,  1244 
opii,  1246 

plumbi  cum  opio,  1245 
saponis  composita,  1246 
scammonii  composita,  1246 
scill®  composita,  1246 
Pilul®,  1234 
aloes,  1238 

et  asafcetid®,  1239 
et  ferri,  1239 
et  mastiches,  1239 
et  myrrh®,  1240 
aloetic®,  1239 
ferrat®,  1239 
ante  cibum,  1240 
antimonii  composit®,  1240 
asafcetid®,  1240 
cath article  composite,  1241 
vegetabilis,  1241 
ccerule®,  1022 
copaib®,  1020 
ferrat®  Yalleti,  1021 
ferri  carbonatis,  1021,  1242 
carbonici,  1021 
iodidi,  1243 

galbani  composit®,  1244 
hydrargyri,  1022 
italic®  nigr®,  1239 
jalap®,  1368 
odontalgic®,  1334 
opii,  1244 
phosphori,  1244 
rhei,  1245 
composit®,  1245 
Pilules,  1234 
Pilules  alterantes,  1240 
antidartreuses,  1240 
antihysteriques,  1244 
bleues,  1023 

chalybes  de  Blaud,  1242 
cochees  mineures,  1241 
de  Blancard,  1243 
de  copahu,  1021 
de  mercure,  1022 
de  rhubarbe,  1245 
de  Rufus,  1240 
de  Yallet,  1021 
des  gourmandes,  1240 
ferrugineuses,  1021 
phosphorees,  1244 
Piment  de  la  Jamaique,  1247 
des  jardins,  403 
rouge,  403 
royal,  1065 
Pimenta,  1247 
acris,  1137 
officinalis,  1247 


Pimenta  vulgaris,  1247 
Pimento,  1247 
Pimiento,  403 
de  Tabaso,  1247 
gorda,  1247 
larga,  1248 
negra,  1247 
Pimpinell,  936 

Pimpinella  Anisum,  214,  1110 
magna,  936 
Saxifraga,  936 
Pine  pollen,  1002 
shoots,  1586 
Pinene,  931 
Pineweed,  858 
Pingrass,  Pinclover,  774 
Pinipicrin,  1598 
Pinitus  succinifer,  1155 
Pinkneya  pubens,  488 
Pinkroot,  1492 
Pinus  Abies,  1252,  1586 
australis,  1584 
balsamea,  1584 
canadensis,  1253 
excelsa,  1252 
halepensis,  1574 
Laricio,  1586 
Larix,  930,  1019,  1586 
maritima,  1586 
Menziesii,  1587 
obovata,  1252 
palustris,  1254,  1364,  1584 
pectinata,  1586 
Picea,  1252,  1586 
Pinaster,  1586 
ponderosa,  1158 
Pumilio,  1586 
rigida,  1254 
rotundata,  1586 
Sabiniana,  1158,  1586 
sylvestris,  1254,  1586 
T®da,  1254,  1584,  1599 
teocotl,  1586 
Piper,  1247 
aduncum,  1024 
album,  1248 
angustifolium,  1024 
anisatum,  557,  1249 
Betle,  1025,  1249 
Carpunya,  1025 
caudatum,  556 
citrifolium,  1230 
crocatum,  1249 
Cubeba,  556 
elongatum,  1024 
hispanicum,  403 
Jaborandi,  1230 
jamaicense,  1247 
lance®folia,  1024 
longum,  1248 
methysticum,  1025,  1249 
nigrum,  1247 
nodulosum,  1230 
officinarum,  1248 
peltatum,  1025 
retieulatum,  1230,  1249 
Siriboa,  1249 
trioicum,  1248 
umbellatum,  1025 
See  also  Cubeba. 
Piperazine,  Piperazidine,  1249 
Piperazinum,  1249 
Piperidine,  1248 
Piperin,  Piperina,  1250 
Piperinum,  1250 
Piperine,  1148,  1250 
Piperoide  de  gingembre,  1103 
Piperonal,  1251 
Pipmenthol,  1034 
Pipsissewa,  447 
Pircunia  drastica,  1225 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


184;* 


Piscidia,  1251 
Erytkrina,  754,  1251 
Pissenlit,  1580 
Pistacke  de  terre,  1153 
Pistacia  atlantica,  1023 
cakulica,  1023 
Kkinjuk,  1023 
Lentiscus,  1023 
Terekintkus,  1023,  1586 
Pita,  145 
Pitck,  1255 
Pitcker-plant,  1420 
Pitkecollokiuin  Avaremotemo,  427 
Pitoyine,  488 
Pittakal,  1255 
Pituri,  Piturine,  854,  857 
leaves,  854 

Pityoxylon  succiniferum,  1155 
Pivoine,  1188 
Pix  alka,  1253 
betulse,  ketulinum,  1255 
kurgundica,  1252 
canadensis,  1253 
liquida,  1254 
navalis,  1255 
nigra,  1255 
solida,  1255 

Placentae  seminis  lini,  945 
Plantago  arenaria,  1257 
Cynops,  1257 
decumkens,  1257 
Ispagkula,  1257 
lanceolata,  1256 
major,  1256 
Psyllium,  1257 
Rugelii,  1256 
virginica,  1256 
Plantain,  1256 
d’eau,  158 

Plaqueminier  de  Yirginie,  587 
Plasma,  783 
Plaster,  adkesive,  607 
ammoniac,  609 

witk  mercury,  600 
ammoniacum  and  mercury,  600 
arnica,  600 
aromatic,  601 
asafcetida,  609 
kelladonna,  601 
klistering,  434 
kreast,  609 
krown  soap,  608 
Burgundy  pitck,  604 
Canada  pitck,  609 
cantkarides,  campk  orated,  435 
capsicum,  601 
ckalykeate,  602 
compound  tar,  608 
court,  603 
diackylon,  605 
galkanum,  602 
compound,  602 
kemlock,  609 
iron,  602 
isinglass,  603 
lead,  605 
iodide,  608 
litkarge,  605 
Logan’s,  609 
Maky’s,  608 
mentkol,  604 
mercurial,  602 
opium,  604 
Paris,  375 
pitck,  604 
cantkaridal,  604 
resin,  607 
soap,  607 
cerate,  608 
spice,  602 
sticking,  607 


Plaster — 

strengtkening,  602 
tkapsia,  1592 
universal,  609 
Vigo’s,  603 
warming,  604 
wkite  lead,  608 
zinc,  606 
Plasters,  598 
porous,  599 

Platantliera  kifolia,  1399 
Platin,  Platine,  1257 
Platini  ckloridum,  1257 
et  potassii  cyanidum,  1258 
et  sodii  ckloridum,  1258 
iodidum,  1258 
Platinic  ckloride,  1257 
iodide,  1258 
Platinum,  1257 
Platre,  375 
Pleurisy-root,  298 
Pleurogyne  rotata,  1391 
Plocaria  lickenoides,  473 
Plomk,  1266 
Plomkagine,  408 
Plumkago,  408 
Plumkates,  1266 
Plumki  acetas,  1258 
carkonas,  1262 
ckloridum,  1264 
dioxidum,  1266 
iodidum,  1263 
nitras,  1264 
oxidum,  1265 
rukrum,  1266 
salts,  1266 
tannas,  1264 
Plumkum,  1266 
aceticum,  1258 
crudum,  1259 
carkonicum,  1262 
corneum,  1264 

kydrico-aceticum  solutum,  973 
carkonicum,  1262 
iodatum,  1263 
nitricum,  1264 
oxy  datum,  1265 
tannicum  pultiforme,  1264 
Plummer’s  pills,  1240 
Poaya,  895 
Po  de  Baliia,  473 
Pockensalke,  1660 
Pockkolz,  796 
Podalyria  tinctoria,  322 
Podopkyllinum,  Podofilina,  1368 
Podopkyllotoxin,  1267 
Podopkyllum,  1267 
Emodi,  1268 
peltatum,  1267 

Podopkyllum-Extrakt,  695,  696 
Podopkyllumliarz,  1368 
Pod  pepper,  403 
Poele-kark,  166 
Pogostemon  Patckouli,  1031 
suave,  1031 
Pois  a gratter,  1063 
d’Amerique,  1 
velus,  1063 
Poison-bay,  864 
dogwood,  1382 
elder,  1382 
kemlock,  530 
ivy,  1382 
nut,  1084 
oak,  1382 
sumack,  1382 
Poivre  a queue,  556 
de  Cayenne,  403 
des  murailles,  1435 
long,  1248 
noir,  1247 


Poix  klancke,  1253 
de  Bourgogne,  1252 
de  Canada,  1253 
des  Vosges,  1252 
emetisee,  219 
jaune,  1252 
noir,  1255 
Pokekerry,  1225 
Pokeroot,  1225 
Polanisia  graveolens,  403 
Polar-plant,  1199 
Polecat-weed,  588 
Polei,  Poley,  806 
Poleiol,  1126 
Polirrotk,  735 
Polisking  rouge,  735 
Polium,  1589 
Pollack,  1132 
Pollenin,  1001 
Polykia  apicipennis,  1028 
Polyckroit,  555 
Polygala  Boykinii,  1438 
de  Virginie,  1436 
Polygama,  1268 
rukella,  1268 
Senega,  1436 
spec.,  1269 
Polygalamarin,  1269 
Polygale,  1268 
de  Virginie,  1436 
Polygonatum  kiflorum,  535 
giganteum,  535 
multiflorum,  535 
officinale,  535 
Polygonum  Bistorta,  775 
spec.,  775 
tinctorium,  865 
Polymountain,  1589 
Polypodium  Filix  mas,  301 
marginale,  301 
Polyporus  fomentarius,  759 
igniarius,  759 
marginatus,  759 
officinalis,  144 
Poly  solve,  79 
Poma  colocyntkidis,  523 
aurantiorum,  310 
Pomata,  1658 

Pomatum  campkoratum,  433 
citrinum,  1666 
cum  cantkaride,  1661 
carkonate  plumkico,  1670 
extracto  kelladonnse,  1661 
kvdrargyro,  1664 
iodureto  plumkico,  1670 
potassico,  1671 
iodurato,  1669 
oxido  kydrargyrico,  1667 
pice,  1669 
de  Regent,  1668 
di  cantaridi,  434 
populeum,  1661 
stikiatum,  1660 
sulfuratum,  1671 
Pomegranate,  792 
rind,  793 
root-kark,  792 
syrup,  1569 
Pomeranze,  310 
unreife,  311 

Pomeranzenkliitken,  313 

und  Citronensckalen  Aufguss, 
868 

Pomeranzensckale,  310 
Pomeranzenkliitkensirup,  1557 
Pomeranzensckalen- Au  fgu  ss,  868 
Pomeranzensckalen-Extrakt,  652 
Pomeranzensckalenol,  1111 
Pomeranzensckalensi  ru  p,  1 556 
Pomeranzentinktur,  1607 
Pommade  au  precipite  klanc,  1668 


1844 


Pommade — 

belladonee,  1661 
camphree,  433 
citrine,  1666 
creosotee,  1662 
d’aconitine,  1660 
d’atropine,  1661 
d’Autenrieth,  1660 
de  bourgeon  de  peuplier,  1661 
de  calomel,  1668 
de  carbonate  de  plornb,  1670 
de  chlorure  mercureux,  1668 
de  chrysarobine,  1662 
de  fore  de  soufre,  1670 
de  goudron,  1669 
d’iode,  1668 
d’iodoform,  1669 
d’iodure  de  plomb,  1670 
de  potassium,  1671 
ioduree,  1669 
de  soufre,  1672 
mercurique,  1666 
de  Lyon,  1667 

de  mercure  precipite  blanc, 
1663 

de  noix  de  galle,  1663 
d’oxyde  de  zinc,  1672 
jaune  de  mercure,  1667 
rouge  de  mercure,  1667 
de  Eegent,  1668 
de  stramoine,  1671 
de  tannin,  1659 
de  vera  trine,  1572 
epispastique,  1661 
mercurielle,  1664 
composee,  1666 
napolitaine,  1664 
phenique,  1659 
simple,  1659 
soufree,  1671 
stibee,  1660 
Pommades,  1658 
Pomme  blanche,  1321 
de  prairie,  1321 
epineuse,  1516 
Pompholix,  1726 
Ponchishuiz,  299 
Pond-lily,  1087 
Pongamia  glabra,  1153 
Pontefract  cakes,  675 
Pool-root,  1411 
Poppy,  1191 
prickly,  276 
Poppy  capsules,  1191 
seed,  1192 
Populin,  1402 
Populus  canadensis,  455 
Porliera  angustifolia,  796 
Porous  plasters,  599 
Porphyrine,  166 
Porphyroxin,  1172,  1408 
Porreau,  160 
Porrillon,  1076 
Porrum  sativum,  159 
Porsch,  907 

Portland  arrowroot,  294 
Portwein,  1708 
Port  wine,  1708 
Potash,  caustic,  1269 
red  prussiate,  1300 
sulphurated,  1273 
stibiatum,  1660 
water,  978 
See  Potassium. 

Potassa,  1269 
caustica,  1269 
cum  calce,  1272 
sulphurata,  1273 
with  lime,  1272 

See  Potassii,  Potassium. 
Potassse.  See  Potassii. 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


Potasse  caustique,  975,  1269 
fondue,  1269 
Potassii  acetas,  1275 
benzoas,  1453 
bicarbonas,  1277 
bichromas,  1279 
bisulphas,  1314 
bitartras,  1280 
bromidum,  1282 
cantharidas,  1271 
carbonas,  1287,  1288 
impurus,  1288 
purus,  1287 
chloras,  1290 
chloridum,  1291 
citras,  1295 
elfervescens,  1295 
cyanidum,  1296 
et  sodii  tartras,  1298 
ferrocyanidum,  1299 
hydras,  1269 
hypophosphis,  1300 
iodas,  1304 
iodidum,  1301 
nitras,  1307 
osmas,  1271 
perchloras,  1292 
permanganas,  1310 
phosphas,  1078 
prussias  flava,  1299 
salicylas,  1480 
sulphas,  1313 
sulphidum,  1274 
sulphis,  1314 
sulphocarbonas,  1274 
sulphuretum,  1273 
tartras,  1315 
acida,  1280 
tartrohoras,  1316 
telluras,  1271 

Potassio-ferric  tartrate,  725 
Potassium,  1270 
acid  tartrate,  1280 
acetate,  1275 

and  ammonium  tartrate,  1316 
and  antimony  tartrate,  217 
and  sodium  borotartrate,  1316 
tartrate,  1298 
antimonate,  222 
benzoate,  1453 
bicarbonate,  1277 
bichromate,  1279 
bisulphate,  1314 
bisulphite,  1315 
bitartrate,  1280 
borotartrate,  1316 
bromide,  1282 
cantharidate,  1271 
carbonate,  1287,  1288 
impure,  1288 
official,  1288 
chlorate,  1290 
chloride,  1291 
chromate,  1279 
citrate,  1295 
effervescent,  1295 
cyanide,  1296 
dichromate,  1279 
ferri  cyanide,  ferridcyanide,1300 
ferri-ferrocyanide,  730 
ferrocyanide,  1299 
ferro-ferricyanide.  730 
ferro-tartrate,  725 
hydroxide,  hydrate,  1269 
hypophosphite,  1300 
iodate,  1304 
iodide,  1301 
iodohydrargyrate,  834 
monosulphide,  1274 
myronate,  1446 
nitrate,  1307 


Potassium — 
nitrite,  1309 
osmate,  1271 
oxalate,  acid,  570 
perchlorate,  1292 
permanganate,  1310 
phosphate,  1478 
platino-cyanide,  1258 
prussiate,  1299 
pyrosulphite,  1315 
salicylate,  1480 
salts,  1271 
silicate,  986 
sulphate,  1313 
sulphite,  1314 
sulphocarbolate,  1486 
sulphocarbonate,  410,  1274 
sulphocyanate,  sulphocyanide 
1300 

sulphuret,  1273 
tartrate,  1315 
tellurate,  1271 
thiocarbonate,  1274 
xanthogenate,  410 
Potato  fly,  397 
starch,  203 

Potentilla  spec.,  774,  775 
Tormentilla,  774 
Potentille,  774,  775 
Pothos  foetida,  588 
Potio,  1042 

laxativa  Viennensis,  874 
nigra,  874 

purgans  anglorum,  874 
Biveri,  979 

Potion  de  fer  aromatique,  1042 
de  Biviere,  979 
gommeuse,  1062 
purgative,  874 
Potions,  1041 
Potirons,  1200 
Pottasche,  1288 
Pottfischthran,  1134 
Poudre  aerophore,  1329 
des  Chartreux,  225 
escharotique  du  frere  Come,  24 
d’Antoine  Dubois,  24 
gazeuse,  1329 
gazifere  purgative,  1328 
de  Jean  de  Vigo,  837 
de  Knox,  381 
de  mercure  crayeux,  847 
saccharin,  1022 
de  rhubarbe  composee,  1332 
de  Seitz,  1329 
de  Tennant,  381 
de  Vienne,  1272 
pectorale.  1330 
temperante  de  Stahl,  1309 
Poudres,  1324 
des  epices,  1327 
Pouliot,  806,  1126 
Poultice,  charcoal,  423 
chlorine,  424 
flaxseed,  424 
hemlock,  423 
linseed,  424 
mustard,  424 
yeast,  423 
Poultices,  423 
Pourretia  lanuginosa,  7 
Powder,  Algaroth,  222,  950 
almonds,  compound.  1326 
aloes  and  canella,  165 
antimonial,  1327 
aromatic,  1327 
arsenical,  Come,  24 
bronze,  1511 

catechu,  compound,  1328 
chalk,  aromatic,  1328 
and  opium,  1328 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


1845 


Powder,  chalk,  compound,  1328 
cinnamon,  compound,  1327 
Dover’s,  1330 

effervescing,  compound,  1328 
elaterin,  compound,  1329 
fineness,  639 
fumigating,  1167 
glycyrrhiza,  compound,  1330 
Gregoi-y’s,  1332 
ipecac  and  opium,  1330 
ipecacuanha,  compound,  1330 
jalap,  compound,  1331 
James’s,  1327 
kino,  compound,  1331 
liquorice,  compound,  1330 
morphine,  compound,  1331 
opium,  compound,  1332 
rhubarb,  compound,  1332 
scammony,  compound,  1332 
tragacanth,  compound,  1333 
Tully’s  1331 
Powders,  1324 
compound,  1325 
effervescing,  1329 
effervescing  aperient,  1328 
fumigating,  1167 
granular,  1326 
Seidlitz,  1328 
soda,  1329 

Priicipitat,  rother,  837 
weisser,  846 

Pracipitirtes  Ferrosulfat,  741 
Prairie  burdock,  1199 
Prayer-heads,  1 
Precipitate,  red,  837 
white,  846 

Precipite  blanc,  826,  846 
rouge,  837 
Prele,  615 

Prernna  taitensis,  294 
Prenanthes  alba,  813,  1317 
Pressschwamm,  1510 
Prickly  ash,  274,  1715 
elder,  274 
pear,  356 
poppy,  276 
Pride  of  China,  316 
of  India,  316 
Primavera,  1317 
Primel,  1317 
Primevere,  1317 
Primrose,  1317 
evening,  1088 
Primula  spec.,  1317, 1318 
Prince’s  pine,  447 
Prinos,  1318 
glaher,  laevigatus,  1319 
verticillatus,  1318 
Proof  spirit,  1508 
Propene,  18 
Prophetin,  593 
Propionitrile,  66 
Propy  lamina,  1645 
Propylamine,  1645 
Prosopis  glandulosa,  7 
juliflora,  7 
Protein,  713 

Protochlorure  de  fer,  721 
de  mercure,  825 
Proto-guinamicine,  489 
Protoiodure  de  mercure,  832 
Protopine,  445,  1172 
Protoquinamicine,  489 
Protosulfate  de  fer,  740 
Protoxyde  d’azote,  1082 
de  plomb,  1265 
Provence  rol,  1140 
Prune,  1319 
Pruneau,  1319 
Prunella  vulgaris,  1434 
Prunum,  1319 


Primus  Amygdalus,  193 
domestica,  1319 
insititia,  1319 
Laurocerasus,  930 
obovata,  1320 
serotina,  1319 
spinosa,  8 
virginiana,  1319 
Prussian  blue,  729 
soluble,  730 
Prussiate  de  fer,  729 
de  mercure,  831 
de  potasse,  1299 
Pseudaconine,  120 
Pseudaconitine,  115,  119 
Pseudocurarine,  1096 
Pseudocurcumin,  570 
Pseudojervine,  1691 
Pseud  omastich,  1024 
Pseudomorphine,  1171 
Pseudonarcissine,  1076 
Pseudopelletierine,  793 
Pseudotoluidine,  212 
Pseudotropine,  851,  854 
Pseusmagennetus  equatoriensis, 
527 

Psidium  pomiferum,  1070 
pyriferum,  1070 
Psorale,  1321 
Psoralea  spec.,  1321 
Psychotria  emetica,  895 
Ptelea  trifoliata,  1321,  1382 
angustifoiia,  1322 
Pterocarpin,  1412 
Pterocarpus  Draco,  1366 
erinaceus,  911 
indicus,  911 
Marsupium,  911 
santalinus,  1411 
Ptomaines,  770 
Ptyalin,  1013 
Ptychotis  Ajowan,  560 
Ptysanae,  867 
Puccoon,  1408 
Puff-ball,  1000 
Pulchra,  298 

Pulegium  micranthum,  1126 
vulgare,  806,  1126 
Pulicaire,  876 
Pulicaria  dysenterica,  876 
Puhnonaire,  349 
des  Frangais,  813 
Pulmonaria  officinalis,  349 
virginica,  350 
Pulpa  cassise,  419 
colocynthidis,  523 
tamarindorum,  1577 
depurata,  1573 
Pulpe  de  casse,  419 
de  coloquinte,  523 
Pulque,  145 
Pulsatilla,  1322 
patens,  pratensis,  1322 
vulgaris,  1322 
Pulu-pulu,  759 
Pulver,  1324 
Pulveres,  1324 
effervescentes,  1329 
aperientes,  1328 
Pulvis  ad  limonadum,  52 
aerophorus,  1329 
anglicus,  1329 
laxans,  1328 
Seidlitzensis,1328 
Algarothi,  222,  950 
aloes  et  canellae,  165 
amygdalae  compositus,  1326 
antacidus,  1332 
antimonialis,  1327 
antimonii  compositus,  1327 
aromaticus,  1327 


Pulvis — 

arsenicalis  Cosmi,  24 
auri,  314 

camphorae  compositus  Tully, 
1331 

catechu  compositus,  1328 
catharticus,  1331 
causticus  cum  calce,  1272 
Yiennensis,  1272 
Londinensis,  1272 
cinnamomi  compositus,  1327 
cretae  aromaticus,  1328 
compositus,  1328 
cum  opio,  1328 
Doweri,  1330 

eflervescens  compositus,  1328 
elaterini  compositus,  1329 
glycyrrhizae  compositus,  1329 
gummosus,  1333 
infantum,  1332 
ipecacuanhae  compositus,  1330 
et  opii,  1330 
opiatus,  1330 
Jacobi,  1327 
jalapae  compositus,  1331 
tartaratus,  1331 
kino  compositus,  1331 
cum  opio,  1331 
liquiritiae  compositus,  1329 
lycopodii,  1001 
magnesiae  cum  rheo,  1332 
massae  hydrargyri,  1022 
morphinae  compositus,  1331 
opii,  1167 
compositus,  1332 
pectoralis  Kurellae,  1330 
purgans,  1331 
refrigerans,  1309 
rhei  compositus,  1332 
salicylicus  cum  talco,  986 
sanguinis,  1410 
scammonii  compositus,  1332 
sodae  tartaratae  eflervescens, 
1328 

stanni,  1511 
temperans,  1309 
ruber,  1309 
Stahlii,  1309 

tragacanthae  compositus,  1332 
vanillae  cum  saccharo,  1684 
Pumpkin-seed,  1200 
Punica  Granatum,  792 
Purga,  903 
Purging  cassia,  418 
Purging-nut,  567 
Purgircassie,  418 
Purgirkorner,  1163 
Purgirnuss,  567 
Purified  cotton,  791 
ox-gall,  715 

Purple  of  Cassius,  314,  1511 
willow-herb,  1003 
Purpurin,  764 
Puya  lanuginosa,  7 
Pycnanthemum  incanum,  859, 
1046 

lanceolatum,  859 
linifolium,  859 
Pyoktanin,  213 
i Pyrene,  1255 
Pyrethre,  1333 
allemande,  1333 
Pyrethrum,  1333 
earneum,  1334 
cinerariaefolium,  1334 
Parthenium,  215,  1198 
roseum,  1334 
Tanacetum,  1579 
Pyridine,  1575 
Pyrites,  arsenical,  293 
iron,  742 


1846 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


Pyrmont  spring,  267,  268 
Pyrocatecbin,  426,  547,  911,  1371 
Pyrodin,  1215 
Pyrogallol,  1335 
Pyrogallolum,  1335 
Pyrogallopyrine,  227 
Pyrogallussiiure,  1335 
Pyroguaiacin,  Pyroguaiacol,  797 
Pyrola  chlorantha,  448 
elliptica,  448 
rotundifolia,  448 
umbellata,  447 
Pyrole,  448 
Pyrolusite,  1014 
Pyromel,  1597 

Pyrophosphas  ferricus  cum  citrate 
sodico,  739 
sodicus,  1479 

Pyrophosphate  de  fer  et  de  sonde, 
740 

de  soude,  1479 

Pyroxylin,  Pyroxylinum,  1336 
Pyrrhopine,  445 
Pyrrol  tetriodide,  879 
Pyrus  americana,  1491 
arbutifolia,  1491 
aucuparia,  1491 
coronaria,  1491 
Cydonia,  572 
japonica,  573 
sambucifolia,  1491 

QUAI,  1086 

Quaker  buttons,  1084 
Quassia,  1338 
amara,  1339 
bark, 1339 
cups,  1338 
excelsa,  1338 
wood,  1338 
Quassia-Aufguss,  872 
Quassiatinktur,  1634 
Quassie,  1338 
Quassienextrakt,  697 
Quatre-fleurs,  169 
Quebrachamine,  303 
Qucbrachine,  303 
Quebracho  bianco,  303 
Colorado,  303 
flojo,  304 

Quebracbo-extrakt,  fliissiges,  651 
Quecke,  rotbe,  1425 
Queckenextrakt,  708 
Queckenwurzel,  1647 
Quecksilber,  840 
basich  scbwefelsaures,  839 
cblorid,  ®tzendes.  820 
chloridamidid,  846 
chloriir,  825 
salbe,  1668 
cyanid,  831 
jod,  Salbe,  1666 
jodid,  833 
jodiir,  832 
liniment,  941 
mit  Kreide,  847 
oleat,  1098 
oxyd,  gelbes,  836 
salbe,  1661 
nitrat,  967 
salbe,  1666 
pracipitirtes,  836 
rothes,  837 
Salbe,  1667 
schwefelsaures,  839 
sulfat,  838 

oxydul,  salpetersaures,  968 
Pilaster,  602 
und  Ammoniak,  600 
pracipitat,  weisser,  846 
rother,  837 


Quecksilber — 

Salbe,  graue,  1664 
rotbe,  1667 
weisse,  1665 
sublimat,  820 
sulfid,  839 

Queen’s  delight,  1515 
root,  1515 
Quendel,  859 
Quer®scitrin,  814 
Quercetin,  426,  427,  1341,  1384 
Quercin,  1341 
Quercitrin,  814,  1386,  1389 
Quercitron-bark,  1341 
Quercus  segilops,  765 
alba,  765, 1340 
coccifera,  512 
falcata,  1341 
infectoria,  764 
lobata,  765 
lusitanica,  764 
marina,  757 
nigra,  1341 
persica,  1019 
robur,  765,  1340 
suber,  1341 
tinctoria,  1341 
Yallonea,  765,  1019 
velutina,  1341 
virens,  765, 1341 
Quick  vinegar  process,  12 
Quickens,  1647 
Quickgrass,  1647 
Quicksilver,  840 
j Quillaja,  1342 
bark,  1342 
saponaria,  1342 
Quillain,  1342 
Quina,  479 

Quinamicine,  Quinamidine,  489 
Quinamine,  488,  489 
Quince,  Bengal,  326 
seed,  572 
syrup,  1569 
Quinetum,  490 
Quinia.  See  Quinine. 

Quinicine,  488 

Quinidin®  bihydriodas,  1344 
bisulpbas,  1344 
bydriodas,  1344 
sulphas,  1343 
Quinidine,  488,  494,  1352 
salts,  1343,  1444 
Quinina,  1344 
Quinin®  acetas,  1362 
arsenias,  1362 
arsenis,  1362 
benzoas,  1362 
bisulpbis,  1345 
bromas,  1347 
citras,  1362 
hydriodas,  1349 
hydrobromas,  1345 
acidus,  1347 
hydrochloras,  1348 
acidus,  1349 
iodas,  1349 
lactas,  1362 
phenylsulphas,  1363 
pbosphas,  1363 
quinas,  1363 
salicylas,  1363 
sulphas,  1349 
acidus,  1345 
sulphovinas,  1363 
tannas,  1363 
valerianas,  1361 
Quinine,  488,  1344 
acetate,  1362 
amorphous,  448 
arseniate,  arsenite,  1362 


Quinine — 
benzoate,  1362 
bisulphate,  1345 
bromate,  1347 
citrate,  1362 
flowers,  1391 
hydriodate,  acid,  1349 
hydrobromate,  1345 
acid,  1347 

hydrochlorate,  1348 
acid,  1349 
iodate,  1349 
kinate,  1363 
muriate,  1348 
phosphate,  1363 
quinate,  1363 
salicylate,  1363 
sulphate,  1349 
acid,  1345 
carbolated,  1363 
phenylated,  1363 
valerianate,  1361 
Quinhydrone,  Quinone,  1371 
Quiniretin,  1351 
Quinoidina,  448 
Quinoline,  450 
Quinone,  490 
Quino-quino  tree,  321 
! Quinova  bitter,  491 
Quinovin,  491 
Quinquina,  479,  483 
Quintefeuille,  775 
Quitch,  1647 

Quittenkerne,  Quittensamen,  572 
Quittenschleim,  1063 

R ABANO  rusticano,  288 
Racine,  bresilienne,  893 
d’aconit,  117 
d’actee  a grappes,  478 
d’arnica,  289 

d’asclepiade  tubereuse,  298 
de  belladone,  327 
de  cypripede  jaune,  573 
de  gentiane,  771 
de  geranium  maculee,  773 
d’orange,  849 
de  Saint-Christophe,  122 
de  veronique,  934 
douce,  786 

Radis  de  cheval,  288 
Radish,  1447 
Radix  abri,  1 
aconiti,  117 
acori,  367 
act®®,  478 
alth®®,  167 
antidysenterica,  897 
armoraci®,  288 
arnic®,  289 
artemisi®,  4 
asari  canadensis,  297 
asparagi,  300 
bardan®,  928 
belladonn®,  327 
benedict®  sylvestris,  776 
cainan®,  cainc®,  366 
calami  aromatici,  367 
calumb®,  378 
carlin®,  876 
caryophyllat®,  776 
aquatic®,  776 
chin®,  1424 
Christophorian®,  122 
colchici,  516 
Colombo,  columbo,  378 
american®,  773 
consolid®  majoris,  1550 
enul®,  875 
filicis  maris,  301 
Fraser®,  773 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


1847 


Radix — 

galangae  majoris,  761 
mi  n oris,  761 
geisemii,  769 
gentiana?,  771 
albse,  936 
luteae,  771 
majoris,  771 
rubra?,  771 
glycyrrhiza?,  786 
hispanicse,  786 
graminis,  1647 
helenii,  875 
hellebori  albi,  1690 
nigri,  808 
viridis,  809 
hemidesmi,  810 
imperatorise,  864 
nigrse,  1411 
inube,  875 
ipecacuanhse,  893 
ireos,  900 

iriais  florentinse,  900 
jalapse,  901 
krameriae,  912 
lapathi,  1388 
levistici,  935 
liquiritiae,  786 
mechoacannae,  903 
melampodii,  808 
olsnitii,  1436 
ononidis,  787 
palmae  Christi,  1399 
pareirse,  1196 
petroselini,  1212 
phytolaccae,  1225 
pimpinellae,  936 
podopbylli,  1267 
polygalae  hungaricae,  1269 
pyrethri,  1333 
germanici,  1333 
romani,  1333 
ratanhae,  ratanhiae,  912 
rhei,  1376 
rumicis,  1388 
russica,  786 
salep,  1398 
saponariae,  1419 
sarsae,  1421 
sarsaparillae,  1421 
sassafras,  1426 
scammoniae,  1428 
senegae,  1436 
serpentariae,  1442 
sumbul,  1544 
symphyti,  1550 
taraxaci,  1580 
cum  herba,  1580 
valerianae,  1681 
majoris,  1682 
minoris,  1681 
veratri  viridis,  1692 
Ragged  lady,  1081 
Ragweed,  178 
Raie,  1134 
Raifort,  288 
Rainfam,  1578 
Rain-water,  237 
Raisin  d’Amerique,  1225 
d’ours,  1678 
Raisins,  1677 

Raizamarilla  sello  de  oro,  849 
Raja  batis,  1134 
Rakoczy  spring,  268 
Rame,  565 
Ramie,  1676 
Ramno  catartico,  1374 
Ramsted,  938 
Rangoon  tar,  1193 
Ranunculus  acris,  1364 
bulbosus,  1364 


Ranunculus — 
repens,  1364 
sceleratus,  1364 
Rapeseed,  1447 

Rapbanus  Rapbanistrum,  1447 
sativus,  1447 
Rapsol,  1447 
Raspberry,  1387 
|.  vinegar,  1569 
i Ratanha-Aufguss,  871 
j Ratanha-Extrakt,  682,  683 
I Ratanbapastillen,  1653 
j Ratanbasirup,  1564 
Ratanhatinktur,  1625 
I Ratanhawurzel,  912 
Ratanbia,  912 
pastillen,  1653 
red,  913 
sirup,  1564 
Ratanhin,  913 

Rattlesnake-master,  623,  936 
root,  813,  1317 
weed,  813 
Rattle  weed,  1643 
Raucheude  Salpetersaure,  73 
Raute,  1388 
Rautenol,  1149 
Ray-grass,  997 
Realgar,  292 

Real’s  solution -press,  643 
Red  bark,  480 

fraudulent,  488 
ant,  399,  402 
bryony,  353 
buckeye,  814 
cedar,  1392 
chalk,  349 
cbickenweed,  1318 
cinchona,  480,  491 
elm,  1657 
hosier,  544 
kousso,  571 
lead,  1266 
litharge,  1265 
oil,  858 
orpiment,  293 
phosphorus,  1218 
pimpernel,  1318 
poppy-petals,  1380 
precipitate,  837 
root,  429 
rose-petals,  1385 
sandal-wood,  1411 
saunders,  1411 
sorrel,  168 
wine,  1708 

Red  River  snake-root,  1443 
Reduced  iron  lozenges,  1652 
Reddle,  349 
Redoul,  543 
Reglisse,  Regaliz,  786 
indienne,  1 
Reissblei,  408 
Reisstarke,  203 
Remijia  pedunculata,  487 
Purdieana,  487 
Renealmia.Cardamoinum,  412 
Rene-des-pres,  1494 
Renoncule,  1323 
Repercolation,  643 
Requin,  1134 
Reseda  luteola,  403 
odorata,  403 
Resin,  1364 
aldehyde,  1195 
copaiba,  1365 
cubeb,  557 
decamalee,  597 
of  aloes,  163 
of  guaiacum,  796 
of  jalap,  1366 


I Resin — 

of  may-apple,  1368 
of  podophyllum,  1368 
of  scammony,  1369 
phosphoretted,  1245 
Resina,  1364 
benzoe,  334 
copaiba?,  1365 
d’angelim  pedra,  913 
draconis,  1366 
elastica,  593 
elemi,  596 

empyreumatica  liquida,  1254 
guaiaci,  796 
jalapae,  1366 
kino,  911 
lacca,  923 
ladanum,  914 
mastiche,  1023 
pini,  1253 
burgundica,  1253 
empyreumatica,  1255 
podopbylli,  1368 
scammoniae,  1369 
scammonii,  1369 
thapsiae,  1592 
Resiuol,  1253 

Resinone,  Resineone,  1365 
Resopyrine,  1371 
Resorcin,  Resoreina,  762,  1370 
Resorcinol,  1370 
Resorcinphtalein,  1371 
Resorcinum,  1370 
Rest-harrow,  787 
Retene,  1255 
Retinol,  1253 
Rhabarbarin,  1378 
Rbabarber,  1376 
Aufguss,  872 
gewiirzter,  1567 
Rhabarberextrakt,  698,  699 
Rhabarbermixtur,  1044 
Rbabarberpillen,  1245 
und  Aloe,  1245 
Rhabarbersaft,  1567 
Rhabarbertinktur,  1635 
aromatische,  1636 
weinige,  1707 

Rhamnin,  Rhamnetin,  1374 
Rhamnocathartin,  1374 
Rhamnoxantbin,  756 
Rhamnus  alaternus,  1376 
amygdalina,  1374 
californica,  1375 
caroliniana,  1375 
catbarticus,  557,  1374 
Frangula,  755 
infectorius,  1374 
Pursliiana,  1375 
saxatilis,  1374 

Rliaphidophora  vitiensis,  294 
Rhatany,  912 
root,  912 
Rhein,  1378 
Rhenish  wines,  1699 
Rheum,  1376 
australe,  1379 
compactum,  1379 
Emodi,  1379 
hybridum,  1376 
! officinale,  1376 

palmatum,  1376,  1379 
rhaponticum,  1378 
undulatum,  1376,  1379 
| Rheumatism-root,  587 
| Rheumin,  1378 
Rhigolene,  1210 
Rhinacanthine,  1379 
Rhinacanthus  communis,  1379 
Rhizoma  arnicae,  289 
I calami,  367 


1848 


Rhizoma — 
caricis,  1425 
chin®,  1424 
cimicifug®,  478 
curcum®,  568 
cypripedii,  573 
filicis,  301 
galang®,  761 
graminis,  1647 
hydrastis,  849 
imperatori®,  864 
iridis,  900 
podophylli,  1267 
serpentari®,  1442 
tormentill®,  774 
valerian®,  1681 
veratri,  1690 
zedoari®,  1719 
zingiberis,  1735 
Rhodankalium,  1300 
Rhodeoretin,  902 
Rhododendron  species,  908 
Rhodomenia  palmata,  472 
Rhodorrhiza  spec.,  1148 
Rhceadine,  Rhoeagenine,  1172, 
1380 

Rhubarb-root,  1376 
Rhus  aromatica,  copallina,  1381 
Coriaria,  Cotinus,  1381 
diversiloba,  1382 
glabra,  1380 
japonica,  765 
' lobata,  1382 

Metopium,  7,  1382 
pumila,  1382 
rad  i cans,  1382 
semialata,  765 
Toxicodendron,  1382 
typhina,  1381 
venenata,  1382 
Yernix,  146,  1382 
Rib-grass,  1256 
Ribwort,  1256 
Rice  flour,  203 
paper,  275 
starch,  203 

Richardia  ®thiopica,  294 
Richardsonia  scabra,  895 
Rich -weed,  520 
Ricinus  communis,  1144 
Ricinusol,  1144 
Mixtur,  1044 
Rieble,  763 
Riementang,  927 
Rindsgalle,  714 
eingedickte,  715 
Ringelblume,  377 
Rio  Janeiro  copaiva,  537 
Negro  sarsaparilla,  1423 
Ripple-grass,  1256 
Rittersporn,  1513 
River-water,  237 
Riz,  203 

Rob  Boyveau-Laffecteur,  1570 
de  sureau,  1407 
Robinia  Pseudacacia,  1384 
Robinier,  1384 
Roccella  tinctoria,  924 
fusiformis,  924 
Rochelle  salt,  1298 
Rochenthran,  1134 
Rock  candy,  1395 
cress,  514 
crystal,  985 
oii,  1209 
Rocou,  291 
Roggen,  202 
Rohe  Carbolsaure,  37 
Potasche,  1288 
Salpetersaure,  73 
Rohrencassie,  418 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


Rolirzucker,  1394 
Rohun-bark,  317 
Roman  chamomile,  215 
fennel,  753 
pellitory,  1333 
wormwood,  4,  178 
j Romarin,  1148,  1386 
des  marais,  1514 
sauvage,  907 
Romero,  1386 
Romischer  Beifuss,  4 
Kiimmel,  559 
Quendel,  859 

Romisch-Kamillen  Thee,  868 
Romisch-Minze,  1033 
Minzwasser,  264 
Ronce  noir,  1386 
sauvage,  1386 
Ronobea  emetica,  895 
Rosa  canina,  1384 
Carolina,  1385 
centifolia,  1385 
damascena,  1147 
de  Castilla,  1385 
gallica,  1385 
lucida.  1385 
pallida,  1385 
roja  rubra,  1385 
Rosage,  908 
! Rosaniline,  212 

hydrochloride,  212 
Rose  a cent  feuilles,  1385 
de  Chine,  168 
de  Provins,  1385 
of  Jericho,  513 
pale,  1385 
rouge,  1385 
tremiere,  168 
Rose  apple,  1070 
Rosebay,  908 
Rosee  du  soleil,  589 
Roseine,  212 
Rose-leaves,  1385 
Rosemary,  1386 
Rosenaufguss,  873 
Rosenblatter,  1385 
Rosenconserve,  529 
Rosenhonig,  1029 
Rosenlorbeer,  1095 
Rosenol,  1147 
Rosensirup,  1568 
Rosenwasser,  265 
starkeres,  265 
Rosilla  de  Puebla,  806 
Rosin,  1364,  1365 
weed,  1199 
Rosinen,  1677 
Rosmarin,  1386 
spiritus,  1508 
wilder,  907 
Rosmarinus,  1386 
officinalis,  1386 
Rosocyanin,  570 
Rosshuf,  1656 
Rosskastanie,  813 
Rossolis,  589 
Rothe  Ceder,  1392 
Miere,  1318 
Rother  Pracipitat,  837 
Rothwein,  1708 
Rottlera,  909 
tinctoria,  909 
Rottlerin,  909 
Rotul®,  1650 
menth®  piperit®,  1650 
saccharin,  1650 
Rouge,  98 
anglais,  735 

Rouliamon  guianensis,  566 
Rowan  tree,  1491 
Rozelle,  168 


Rubber,  India,  593 
Rubia  tinctorum,  763 
Rubian,  763 
Rubidehydran,  764 
Rubidium  and  ammonium  bro- 
mide, 182 
chloride,  1294 
Rubigo,  735 
Rubihydran,  764 
Rubijervine,  1691 
Rubin,  174 
Rubiretin,  764 
Riibol,  1447 
Rubreserine,  1221 
Rubrica  fabrilis,  B49 
Rubus,  1386 
canadensis,  1386 
fruticosus,  1387 
Id®us,  1389 
occidentalis,  1387 
strigosus,  1386 
trivialis,  1386 
villosus,  1386,  1388 
Ruby,  174 
Ruda,  1388 
Rue,  1388 
de  chevre,  763 
Rufus’s  pills,  1240 
Ruhrrinde,  1339 
Ruhrwurzel,  893 
Ruibarbo,  1376 
Ruizia  fragrans,  347 
Rum,  148 
Rumex,  1388 
acetosa,  1185 
aquaticus,  1388 
crispus,  1388 
obtusifolius,  1388 
sanguineus,  1388 
Rumicin,  1388 
Ruprechtskraut,  774 
Russian  isinglass,  860 
liquorice,  786 
musk,  1059 
mustard,  1446 
rhubarb,  1377 
Rust,  744 
Riisterrinde,  1657 
Ruta,  1388 
graveolens,  1388 
Rutin,  1389 
sugar,  1389 
Rutilin,  1400 
Rye-grass,  997 
starch,  202 

SABADILLA,  1390 
officinarum,  1390 
Sabadilline,  1688 
Sabadillsamen,  1390 
Sabatrine,  1688 
Sabbatia,  1391 
angularis,  1391 
Elliottii,  1391 
Sabicu-wood,  8 
Sabina,  1391 
officinalis,  1391 
Sabine,  1391 
Sablier,  819 
Sacca  coffee,  361 
Saccharate  de  fer,  736 
Sacchari  foex,  1597 
Saccharin,  1393 
Saccharinum,  1393 
Saccharoles  mous,  529 
Saccharomyces  vini,  cerevisi®, 
148,  437 

Saccharum,  1394 
candidum,  1395 
chinense,  1394 
hordeatum,  1395 


GENERAL  INDEX . 


1849 


Saccharum — 
lactis,  1398 
officinarum,  1394 
purificatum,  1394 
saturni,  1258 

Saccharure  de  carbonate  ferreux, 
717 

d’iodure  de  fer,  731 
de  lichen,  441 
d’oxide  de  fer  soluble,  736 
Sacred  bark,  1375 
Sadebaum-Extrakt,  701 
Sadebaumol,  1150 
Sadebaumsalbe,  436 
Sadebaumspitzen,  1391 
Sadebaumtinktur,  1636 
Safllor,  Safflower,  415 
Saffron,  415,  554 
Safran,  554 
batard,  516 
de  Mars  aperitif,  735 
astringent,  735 
de  Venus,  563 
Safran ine,  212 
Safrantinktur,  1616 
Safrene,  Safrol,  1152 
Sagapenum,  1183 
Sage,  1405 
brush, 4 
Sago  meal,  205 
Sagou,  205 
Sagu,  205 

Saguerus  Rumphii,  205 
Sagus  spec.,  205 
Saigon  cinnamon,  498,  500 
Saigonzimmt,  498 
Saindoux,  123 
St.  Andrew’s  cross,  858 
St.  Bartholomew’s  tea,  862 
St.  John’s  bread,  419 
wort,  857 

St.  Regis  spring,  266 
St.  Victor’s  balsam,  1609 
Sal  aeratus,  1277 
alembroth,  825 
amarum,  1008 
ammoniac,  185 
ammoniacum,  185 
ammonium  secretum  Glauberi, 
191 

anglicum,  1008 
aperitivum,  1483 
commune,  1466 
culinare,  1466 
de  duobus,  1314 
digestivum  Sylvii,  1291 
diureticus,  1276 
Epsomense,  1008 
essentiale  tartari,  110 
mirabile  Glauberi,  1483 
perlatum,  1476 
nitri,  petrse,  1307 
polychrestum  Glaseri,  1313 
Seignetti,  1298 
prunelle,  1307 
sedativum  Hombergi,  34 
Sedlicense,  1008 
sodse,  1463 
depuratus,  1462 
succini  volatile,  96 
tartari,  1287 
volatile  cornu  cervi,  184 
siccum,  182 
Salbei,  1405 
Salben,  1658 
Salep,  1398 

des  Indes  occidentales,  204 
Salicaire,  1003 
Salicin,  422,  1400,  1402 
Salicinum,  1400 
Salicor,  1462 


Salicylaldehyde  alpha  methyl 
phenylhydrazone,  227 
Salieylamide,  1403 
Salicylate  d’eserine,  1224 
de  litliine,  994 
de  phenol,  1403 
de  soude,  1479 
Salicyl-guaiacol,  799 
Salicylirter  Kampfer,  389 
Salicylsaure,  88 
Salicylsaurephenylather,  1403 
Saligenin,  1400 
Salinaphtol,  1073 
Salipyrine,  227,  1405 
Saliretin,  1400 
Salivaire,  1333 
Salix,  1401 
alba,  1401 
fragilis,  1019,  1402 
purpurea,  1402 
Salmiak,  185 
Salmi akgeist,  248 
starker,  248 
Salmiakpastillen,  1651 
Salol,  1403 
camphor,  1403 
Salolum,  1403 
Salomon’s  Siegel,  535 
Salophen,  1403 
Salpeter,  1307 

Salpetergeist,  versiisster,  1495 
Salpeterpapier,  443 
Salpetersalzsaure,  76 
Salpetersaure,  72 
rauchende,  73 
Salpetre,  1307 
Salsepareille,  1421 
Salseparin,  1424 
Salt,  common,  1466 
of  lemon,  80 
of  sorrel,  80 
of  tartar,  1287 
volatile,  182 
Saltpetre,  1307 
paper,  443 

Salve,  Deshler’s,  436 
Salvia,  1405 
axillaris,  859 
officinalis,  1405 
spec.,  1406 
Salzsaure,  60 
Samadera  indica,  1339 
Sambucus,  1406 
canadensis,  1406 
Ebulus,  1407 
nigra,  1407 
Sammtrose,  1385 
Sandalo  rojo,  1411 
Sandal-wood,  1411 
Sandarac,  Sandaraca,  1023 
Sand-box  tree,  819 
Sandbiichsenbaum,  819 
Sanded  gum,  8 
Sand-myrtle,  1679 
Sandriedgras,  1425 
Sanders- wood,  1151 
Sand-sedge,  1425 
Sang,  1409 
Sang-dragon,  1366 
Sangre,  1409 
de  drago,  1366 
Sangsue,  814 
Sanguesa,  1387 
Sanguinaire,  1408 
Sangu  inaria,  1408 
canadensis,  1408 
Sanguinarine,  1409 
Sanguine,  735 
Sanguis,  1409 

Sanguisuga  medicinalis,  814,  815 
officinalis,  814,  815 


[ Sanicle,  1411 
Sanicula  spec.,  1411 
Sauikel,  1411 
Sanitas,  1157 
Santal,  1412 
citrin,  1150 
rouge,  1411 
wood,  1151 
Santalin,  1412 
Santalum  album,  1150 
rubrum,  1411 
spec.,  1150 

Santelholz,  1151,  1411 
Santelol,  1150 
Santonate  de  soude,  1482 
Santonica,  1412 
Santonin,  1413 
lozenges,  1655 
Santoninum,  1413 
Santoninzeltchen,  1655 
Saoria,  910 
Sap-green,  1374 
Sapin,  1586 

Sapindus  Saponaria,  1419 
Sapium  sebifera,  1515 
sylvaticum,  1515 
Sapo,  1416 
animalis,  1418 
domesticus,  1418 
durus,  1417 
hispanicus,  1417 
jalapinus,  1368 
kalinus,  1418 
medicatus,  1418 
mollis,  1418 
oleaceus,  venetus,  1417 
viridis,  1418 
Sapodilla  plum,  1047 
Sapogenin,  1342 
Saponaire,  1419 
Saponaria  officinalis,  1419 
Saponin,  428,  904,  935,  1342, 1419 
Sapota  Achras,  1047 
Muelleri,  802 
Sapotin,  1047 
Sapphire,  174 
Saprol,  40,  45 
Sapucaya-nuts,  1126 
Saratoga  springs,  287 
Sarcocephalus  esculentus,  430 
Sarcocolla,  1420 
Sarepta  mustard,  1446 
Sargassum  bacciferum,  758 
Sarothamnus  Scoparius,  1431 
vulgaris,  1431 
Sarothra  gentianoides,  858 
hypericoides,  858 
Sarracenia  fiava,  1421 
purpurea,  1420, 
variolaris,  1421 
Sarriette,  859 
Sarsaparilla,  1421 
bearded,  1423 
Caracas,  1424 
false,  275 
mealy,  1423 
non-mealy,  202, 1423 
wild,  275 

Sarsaparilla-Absud,  579 
Sarsaparilla-Extrakt,  701 
Sarsaparillasirup,  1569 
Sassafras,  1426 
bark,  1426 
pith,  1426 
root,  1426 
tree,  348 
variifolium,  1426 
Sassafrasholz,  1426 
Sassafrasmark  Schleim,  1063 
Sassafrasniisse,  1077 
Sassafrasol,  1152 


1850 


Sassafrasrinde,  1426 
Sassaparilla,  1421 
Sassy-bark,  624 
Satin-wood,  1716 
Saturations,  1041 
Saturei,  859 
Satureja  liortensis,  859 
montana,  859 
Satze,  910 
Saubohne,  713 
Saucy-bark,  624 
Sauce,  Sauz,  1401 
Sauco,  1406 
Sauerdorn,  336 
Sauerkonig,  1029,  1187 
Sauerklee,  1185 
Sauerstoff,  1186 
Sauge  officinale,  1405 
Saule,  1401 
Saunders,  red,  1411 
Saurack,  336 
Saure  Molken,  917 
aromatiscke  Tinktur,  103 
Saururus  cernuus,  1427 
Savakin  gum,  6,  7 
Sa vanilla  rkatany,  912 
Savine,  1391 
Savin-tops,  1391 
Savon,  1416 
ammoniacal,  939 
blanc,  1417 
calcaire,  940 
d’Espagne,  1417 
vert,  1418 
Savonniere,  1419 
Saxon  fennel,  753 
Scammonee,  1428 
Scammoniakarz,  1369 
Scammoniawurzel,  1428 
Scammonin,  903,  1370,  1428 
Scammonium,  1428 
Emulsion,  612 
Latwerge,  529 
Pillen,  1246 
Scammony,  1428 
resin,  1369 
root,  1428 
Scaptin,  583 
Scarole,  1581 
Sceau  d’or,  849 
de  Salomon,  535 
Sckabe,  399 
Sckacktelkalm,  615 
Sckafgarbe,  16 
Sckafrippe,  16 
Sckallotte,  160 
Sckeele’s  green,  564,  565 
Sckierling,  530 
gefleckter,  530 
Sckierlingsaft,  1535 
Sckierlingsblatter,  531 
Sckierlingsfriickte,  531 
Sckierlingsfruckt-Extract,  665, 666 
Sckierlingskraut,  531 
Sckierlingumscklag,  423 
Sckierlingtinktur,  1616 
Sckiffspeck,  1255 
Sckildkraut,  1434 
Scklammkreide,  552 
Scklangenwurzel,  1442 
Aufguss,  874 
Extrakt,  705 
sckwarze,  478 
Tinktur,  1638 
Sckleickera  trijuga,  923 
Sclileime,  1062 
Scklippe’s  salt,  225 
Sckliisselblume,  1317 
Scklutte,  159 
Sckmalz,  123 
Sckmalzol,  1103 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


Sckmirgel,  174 
Sckneerose,  908 
Scknittlauck,  160 
Sckcenite,  1313 
Sckcenocaulon  officinale,  1390 
Sckollkraut,  445 
Sckopflavendel,  933 
Sckotenpfeffer,  403 
Sckwalbenwurz,  299 
Sckwalbenwurzel,  298 
Extrakt,  fliissiges,  651 
Sckwamm,  1509 
Sckwarze  Brecknuss,  567 
Sckwarzer  Andorn,  934 
Nacktsckatten,  328 
Senf,  1444 

Sckwarzerle,  161,  755 
Sckwarzes  Peck,  1255 
Wasser,  998 
Sckwarzkiimmel,  1081 
Sckwarzwurz,  1550 
Sckwefel,  1538 
Sckwefelalkokol,  409 
Sckwefelpastillen,  1655 
Sckwefelantimon,  223 
gef  alltes,  224 
gereinigtes,  223 
Sckwefelatker,  129 
Sckwefelblumen,  1538 
Sckwefelbliitke,  1538 
Sckwefelcalcium,  384 
Sckwefeleisen,  742 
Sckwefelkoklenstoff,  409 
Sckwefel-Latwerge,  530 
Sckwefelleker,  1273 
Sckwefellebersalbe,  1670 
Sckwefelmilck,  1538 
Sckwefelpastillen,  1655 
Sckwefelquecksilker,  rotkes,  839 
Sckwefelsalbe,  1671 
Sckwefelsaure,  97 
Sckwefelspiessglanz,  223 
Sckweflige  Saure,  104 
Sckweinekrot,  572 
Sckweinesckmalz,  123 
Sckweinfurtk  green,  565 
Sckwerspatk,  324 
Sckwertel,  899,  900 
Sckwertelextrakt,  681 
Sckwertlilie,  899,  900 
Scilla,  1429 
maritima,  1429 
Scille,  1429 
Sclererytkrin,  617 
Scleroderma,  1000 
Scleroiodin,  617 
Scleromucin,  617 
Sclerotium  clavus,  616 
Scleroxantkine,  Sclerocrystallin, 
617 

Scoparin,  1432 
Scoparius,  1431 
Scopola  carniolica,  328 
japonica,  329 
Scopolia  atropoides,  328 
japonica,  329 
Scopoline,  310 
I Scotck-grass,  1647 
J Scouring-rusk,  615 
] Scrofula-plant,  1433 
Scrofulaire,  1433 
Scropkularia  nodosa,  1433 
Scropkularosmin,  1434 
Scurvy-grass,  512 
Scutellaire,  1434 
Scutellaria,  1434 
lateriflora,  1434 
spec.,  1434 
Sea  lavender,  1514 
water,  238 
wrack,  757 


Seaside  grape,  912 
Seawrack,  757 
Sebipira  guacu,  322 
Sebum  ovillum,  1444 
Secale  cereale,  202,  615 
clavatum,  615 
cornutum,  615 
Secaline,  618 

Seckelblumen-Wurzel,  429 
Sectional  percolation,  643 
Sedum  acre,  1435 
deudroideum,  1435 
Telepkium,  1435 
Seedlac,  923 
Seerose,  1087 
Seetang,  757 
Segah,  6 
Segala,  202 
Segata  cornu  ta,  615 
Seidelbast,  1039 
Extrakt,  688 
Seidelbastsalbe,  1040 
Seidenpflanze,  298 
Seidlitz  powders,  1328 
spring,  267,  269 
Seife,  1416 

Seifencerat-Pflaster,  608 
Seifen-Glycerit,  785 
Seifenpflaster,  607 
Seifenrinde,  1342 
Seifenspiritus,  943 
Seifenwurzel,  1419 
Seigle,  202 
ergote,  615 
noir,  615 

Seignettesalz,  1298 
Sel  alembroth,  969 
amer,  1008 
ammoniac,  185 
martial,  186 

ammoniacal  nitreux,  189 
commun,  1466 
de  Ckrestien,  313 
de  cuisine,  1466 
d’ Epsom,  1008 
de  Figuier,  313 
de  Glauber,  1483 
secret,  191 
de  Perse,  1458 
de  Sedlitz,  1008 
de  Seignette,  1298 
de  saturne,  1258 
de  soude,  1463 
digestif,  1291 
de  Vicky,  1454 
vegetale,  1315 
volatil  d’Angleterre,  182 
Selacke,  1134 
Selenite,  376 
Self-keal,  1434 
Selin  des  marais,  1436 
Selinum  palustre,  1436 
Sellerie,  1212 
Selter’s  spring,  267 
Semecarpus  Anacardium,  207 
Semen,  abelmoscki,  168 
abri,  1 
amomi,  1247 
amygdali  amarum,  193 
dulce,  193 
anisi  stellati,  863 
vulgaris,  214 
arecse,  276 
badiani,  863 
bardanse,  928 
cacao,  1595 
calcatrippse,  1513 
canariense,  1213 
cardui  Mari®,  939 
cardamomi  minoris,  412 
cataputise  minoris,  568 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


1851 


Semen — 
cime,  1412 
coffee,  359 
colie,  362 
colckici,  516 
consolidse,  1513 
regalis,  1513 
contra,  1412 
crotonis,  1163 
cydonise,  572 
erucse,  1444 
estrallado,  863 
foeniculi,  752 
fceni  grseci,  753 
hyoscyami,  853 
Ignatise,  1086 
lini,  945 
lycopodii,  1001 
myristicse,  1065 
nucis  vomicae,  1084 
papaveris,  1192 
pedicularis,  1512 
Peponis,  1200 
physostigmatis,  1220 
quercus  tostum,  1341 
ricini  majoris,  567 
sabadilke,  1390 
sanctum,  1412 
santonici,  1412 
sinapis,  1444,  1445 
staphidis  agrife,  1512 
staphisagriae,  1512 
stramonii,  1516 
strophanthi,  1522 
strvchni,  1084 
tiglii,  1163 

Semence  de  canarie,  1213 
de  ckanvre,  394 
de  coing,  572 
de  strophanthe,  1522 
du  medicinier,  567 
Semencine,  1412 
Semina.  See  Semen. 
Sempervivum  teetorum,  1435 
Sene,  1438 
Americain,  1440 
indigene,  526 
Senebiera  didyma,  514 
Senecio  spec.,  1656 
Senega,  1436 
Senega- Aufguss,  873 
Senegaextrakt,  704 
Senegal  gum,  5,  7 
Senegasirup,  1571 
Senegatinktur,  1637 
Senegrain,  753 
Seneka,  1436 
Senf,  schwarzer,  1444 
weisser,  1444 
Senfliniment,  943 
Senfol,  1154 
Senfpapier,  444 
Senfteig,  424 
Senna,  1438 
acutifolia,  1438 
angustifolia,  1439 
Alexandrina,  1438 
American,  1440 
baladi,  1440 
bladder,  526 
falsche,  526 
indica,  1438 
jebeli,  1440 
obovata,  1439 
officinalis,  1439 
pubescens,  1440 
Sennaargum,  6 
Senna-Aufguss,  873 
Sennacrol,  Sennapicrin,  1441 
Sennaextrakt,  705 
Senna-Latwerge,  529 


Sennari  gum,  6 
Sennasirup,  1571 
Sennatinktur,  1638 
Sennesblatter,  1438 
Sepia  officinalis,  553 
Sepie,  553 
Sericin,  1510 
Sericum  anglicum,  603 
Serpen taire  de  Virginie,  1442 
Serpentaria,  1442 
Serpen  tary-root,  14 
Serpentine,  1005 
Serpol,  Serpolet,  859 
Serronia  Jaborandi,  1230 
Serum  lactis,  917 
acidum,  917 
aluminatum,  917 
dulce,  917 

tamarindinatum,  917 
Sesame,  1152 
Sesamol,  1152 
Sesamum,  1152 
indicum,  1152 
orientale,  1153 

Sesquioxyde  de  fer  hydrate,  735 
kumide,  734 

Setae  siliquae  hirsutae,  1063 
Seven  barks,  820 
Sevenkraut,  1391 
Seville  orange,  310 
Sevum,  1444 
praeparatum,  1444 
Sewruga,  860 
Seyah, 6 

Seyal,  Seyaleh,  6 
Shale,  170 
Shallot,  160 
Shave-grass,  615 
Shea  butter.  1162 
Sheep  laurel,  907 
poison,  907 
Shellac,  923 
Shellflower,  446 
Shepherd’s  purse,  513 
Sherry  wine,  1699 
Shieldfern,  301 
Shikimi,  Sikimi,  863 
Shinleaf,  448 
Short  buchu,  354 
Shrubby  cinquefoil,  775 
trefoil,  134 

Shrub  yellow-root,  1715 
Siam  benzoin,  335 
Siberian  musk,  1059 
Sibo  de  carnero,  1444 
Sicilian  liquorice,  674 
Sida  Abutilon,  168 
species,  169 
Siddhi,  394 

Sidesaddle-plant,  1420 
Siempreviva,  1435 
Siero  di  latte,  917 
Sierra  salvia,  4 
Sikeranine,  854 
Sikimin,  863 
Silber  raffinirtes,  207 
Silbercyanid,  277 
Silberglatte,  1265 
Silberkraut,  774 
Silberjodid,  278 
Silbernitrat,  278 
Silberoxyd,  285 
salpetersaures,  278 
geschmolzenes,  281 
Silbersalpeter,  278 
Silicate  de  soude,  985 
liquide,  985 
Silicium,  Silicon,  985 
Siliqua  dulcis,  419 
vanillse,  1683 
Silkweed,  common,  298 


] Silky  coi'iiel,  544 
Silphium  laciniatum,  1199 
terebinthinaceum,  1199 
Silver,  287 
cyanide,  277 
fir,  1586 

fulminating,  279,  286 
iodide,  278 
leaf,  287,  1515 
litharge,  1265 
nitrate,  278 
and  potassium,  280 
diluted,  280 
fused,  281 
moulded,  281 
oxide, 285 
refined,  287 
Silverweed,  774 
Silvery  cinquefoil,  774 
Silybum  marianum,  929 
Simaba  Cedron.  1339 
ferruginea,  1339 
Valdivia.  1339 
Simaruba,  1339 
amara,  1339 
excelsa,  1338 
medicinalis,  1339 
officinalis,  1339 
Simple  ointment,  1659 
Sinalbin,  1446 
Sinapin,  1446 
Sinapis  alba,  1444 
arvensis,  1446 
juncea,  1446 
nigra,  1444 
Sinapismus,  424 
Sinigrin,  1446 
Sinistrin,  817 
Sinkaline,  1446 
Siphonia  brasiliensis,  593 
elastica,  593 
Sirop  balsamique,  1572 
chloral,  1558 
d’acide  citrique,  1553 
iodhvdrique,  1554 
d’ail,  1555 
d’amande,  1555 
de  baumede  Tolu,  1572 
de  bourgeons  de  pin,  1587 
de  cerise,  1569 
de  chaux,  1558 

de  chlorhydrophospkate  de 
chaux,  1557 

de  chlorure  de  fer,  1561 
de  coquelicot,  1568 
de  cuisinier,  1570 
d’ecorce  de  cerisier.  1566 
d’ orange  am  ere,  1556 
de  ronce,  1568 
de  fleur  d’oranger,  1557 
de  framboise,  1568 
de  gomme,  1553 
de  goudron,  1566 
iode,  1566 
de  guimauve,  1555 
de  hemidesmus,  1562 
de  hypopkosphite  de  chaux 
composee,  1562 
d’iodurede  fer,  1558 
d’ipecacuanlia,  1563 
de  lactophosphate  de  chaux, 
1557 

de  lactucarium  opiac6,  1564 
de  Laffecteur,  1570 
de  limon,  1553 
de  miel,  1029 
de  mure,  1565 
de  nerprun,  1374,  1567 
d’opium,  1565 
d’orgeat,  1555 
de  parietaire,  1198 


1852 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


Sirop — 

de  pavot  blanc,  1565 
rouge,  1568 

de  phosphate  acide  de  chaux, 
1557 

de  fer,  1560 
de  polygala,  1571 
de  ratanhia,  1564 
de  rkubarbe,  1567 
aromatique,  1567 
de  roses  rouges,  1568 
de  salsepareille  compose,  1569 
de  scille,  1570 
compose,  1570 
de  sene,  1571 
de  sue  de  limon,  1565 
de  sucre,  1553 
diacode,  1565 
gingembre,  1573 
simple,  1553 
sudorifique,  1569 
tonique  d’Eaton,  1562 
Sirops,  1551 
Sirupe,  1551 

Sisymbrium  Alliaria,  513 
Nasturtium,  513 
officinale,  513 
Sium  angustifolium,  477 
latifolium,  477 
lineare,  477 
Skate,  1134 
Skulein,  1430 
Skull-cap,  1434 
Skunk-cabbage,  588 
weed,  588 
Slaked  lime,  380 
Slippery  elm,  1657 
Sloe,  8 

Small  burnet  saxifrage,  936 
hemlock,  531 
spikenard,  275 
Smilacin,  1424 
Smilacina  racemosa,  535 
Smilax,  1421 
aspera,  1424 
China,  1424 
cordato-ovato,  1421 
glauca,  1421 
officinalis,  1421 
medica,  1421 
papyracea,  1421 
pseudochina,  1424 
Purhampuy,  1421 
rotuu  difolia,  1425 
Sarsaparilla,  1421 
scabriuscula,  1421 
syphilitica,  1421 
tamnoides,  1424 
Smirgel,  174 
Smyrna  figs,  752 
galls,  765 
scammony,  1428 
Snakehead,  446 
Snake-milk,  632 
Snakeroot,  black,  478,  1411 
button,  623 
corn,  623 
Red  River,  1443 
Senega,  1436 
Texas,  1443 
Virginia,  1443 
Snakeweed,  775 
Snapdragon,  938 
Sneezeweed,  806 
Sneezewort,  17,  806 
Snow  rose,  908 
water,  237 
Soap,  1416 
Castile,  1417 
curd,  1418 
green,  1418 


Soap — 
hard,  1417 
insoluble,  1416 
soft,  1418 
soluble,  1416 
Soapbark,  1342 
Soap-berries,  1419 
Soaproot,  1419 
Soapstone,  986,  1005 
Soapwort,  1419 
Socaloin,  164 
Socotora  aloe,  161 
Socotrin  aloes,  161,  163 
Socoyal,  1185 
Soda,  1448,  1463 
ash,  1462 
caustica,  1448 

citrotartrate,  effervescent,  1469 
cruda,  1463 
entwasserte,  1464 
powders,  1329 
tartarata,  1298 
See  also  Sodium, 
washing,  1463 
waste,  1471 

Sod*  citrotartras  effervescens, 
1469 

See  also  Sodii. 

Sodii  acetas,  1450 

arsenas,  arsenias,  1451 
benzoas,  1452 
bicarbonas,  1454 
bisulphis,  1457 
boras,  1458 
bromidum,  1460 
carbolas,  1487 
carbonas,  1462 
exsiccata,  1464 
exsiccatus,  1464 
venalis,  1463 
chloras,  1465 
chloridum,  1466 
citro-tartras  effervescens,  1469 
et  ammonii  phosphas,  1478 
et  potass*  tartras,  1298 
formias,  1480 
hypophosphis,  1469,  1470 
hyposulphis,  1470 
iodidum,  1472 
nitras,  1474 
nitris,  1475 
phosphas,  1476 
effervescens,  1478 
potassio-tartras,  1298 
pyrophosphas,  1479 
salicylas,  1479 
santoninas,  1482 
albuminatus,  1483 
silicas,  985 
sulphas,  1483 
effervescens,  1484 
exsiccatus,  1484 
sulphis,  1484 
sulpliocarbolas,  1486 
sulphovinas,  1487 
valerianas,  1488 

Sodio-ferric  citro-phosphate,  737 
citro-pyrophosphate,  739 
pyrophosphate,  740 
theobromine  salicylate,  1481 
Sodium,  1450 
acetate,  1450 

and  platinum  chloride,  1258 
arsenate,  1451 
benzoate,  1452 
bicarbonate,  1454 
bisulphite,  1457 
borate,  1458 
bromide,  1460 
carbolate,  1487 
carbonate,  1462 


podium — 

dried,  1464 
pure  1462 
chlorate,  1465 
chloride,  1466 

and  platinum,  1258 
choleate,  716 
choleinate,  716 
diiodosalicylate,  1480 
dioxide,  1450 
dithiosalicvlate,  1480 
ethylate,  982 
ethylsulphate,  1487 
fluosilicate,  987 
formiate,  54,  1480 
hydrate,  1448 
hydrocarbonate,  1454 
hydroxide,  1448 
hypophosphite,  1469,  1470 
hyposulphite,  1470 
iodide,  1472 
monoxide,  1450 
nitrate,  1474 
nitrite,  1475 
nitro-prusside,  1300 
orthophosphate,  1476 
paraphenolsulphonate,  1486 
phenate,  1487 
phenolsulphonate,  1486 
phosphate,  1476 
effervescent,  1478 
platino-ehloride,  1258 
pyroborate,  1458 
pyrophosphate,  1479 
salicylate,  89,  1479 
santoninate,  1482 
silicate,  985 
stannate,  1511 
sulphate,  1483 
effervescent,  1484 
sulphite,  1484 
sulphocarbolate,  1486 
sulphomethylate,  1488 
sulphophenate,  1486 
sulphosalicylate,  1481 
sulphovinate,  1487 
tannate,  1488 
tetraborate,  1458 
thiosulphate,  1470 
valerianate,  1488 
Soft  soap,  1418 
Soja  hispida,  1154 
Solanine,  590 
Solanum  carolinense,  592 
Dulcamara,  590 
nigrum,  328 
paniculatum,  592 
tuberosum,  203 
Solazzi  juice,  675 
Solder,  1511 
Solea  verticillata,  895 
Solenostemma  Argel,  1441 
Solfatare,  Solfare,  1538 
Solfato  de  cobre,  561 
di  alluminio  e di  potassio,  169 
di  cinconidina,  493 
di  cinconina,  497 
di  rame,  561 
Solidago,  1489 
odora,  1489 
Virga-aurea,  1489 
Soliman  vegetal,  298 
Solomon’s  seal,  535 
Soluble  glass,  985 
gun-cotton,  133& 

Prussian  blue,  730 
starch,  203 
tartar,  1315 

Solute  d’acetate  d’alumine,  176 
de  chlorure  de  baryum,  324 
de  sel  Alembroth,  969 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


1853 


Solutes,  947 

Solutio  arsenicalis  Fowleri,  979 
Donovani,  950 
Solution,  arsenical,  979 
Burnett’s,  987 
Donovan’s,  950 
Fowler’s,  979 
Labarraque’s,  983 
Lugol’s,  969 
Magendie’s,  973 
Mayer’s,  835 
Millon’s,  968 
Monsel’s,  965 
of  aluminum  acetate,  176 
of  ammonia,  248 
stronger,  250 

of  ammonio-citrate  of  bismuth, 
951 

of  ammonium  acetate,  948 
of  antimony  chloride,  919 
of  arsenic  chloride,  947 
hydrochloric,  947 
and  mercuric  chloride,  950 
of  ai-senous  acid,  947 
of  atropine  salicylate,  951 
sulphate,  951 
of  barium  chloride,  324 
of  basic  ferric  sulphate,  965 
of  bismuth  and  ammonium  ci- 
trate, 951 

of  boroglyceride,  784 
of  calcium  chloride,  371 
of  chloride  of  iron,  957 
of  chlorinated  lime,  954 
potassa,  984 
soda,  983 
of  chlorine,  256 
of  citrate  of  ammonium,  949 
of  potassium,  1295 
of  cocaine  hydrochlorate,  954 
of  corrosive  sublimate,  969 
of  ferric  acetate,  955 
chloride,  957 
citrate,  962 
nitrate,  963 
subsulphate,  965 
sulphate,  966 
of  ferrous  chloride,  1562 
nitrate,  964 
of  gutta-percha,  967 
of  hydrogen  dioxide,  261 
peroxide,  261 
of  iodine,  969 
caustic,  970 
compound,  969 

of  iron  and  ammonium  acetate, 
963 

of  lead  subacetate,  973 
diluted,  975 
of  lime,  952 
saccharated,  1558 
of  lithia,  effervescing,  970 
of  magnesium  acetate,  972 
carbonate,  970 
citrate,  971 

of  mercuric  chloride,  969 
and  urea,  842 
formamide,  842 
nitrate,  967 
acid,  967 
peptonate,  842 

of  mercurous  nitrate,  967,  968 
of  morphine  acetate,  972 
bimeconate,  973 
hydrochlorate,  973 
sulphate,  973 

of  normal  ferric  sulphate,  966 
of  pepsin,  aromatic,  1205 
of  perchloride  of  iron,  957 
strong,  957 
mercury,  968 


Solution — 

of  pernitrate  of  iron,  963 
of  mercury,  967 
of  persulphate  of  iron,  965,  966 
of  potash,  975 
effervescing,  978 
of  potassa,  975 
of  potassium  arsenite,  979 
citrate,  980 
permangauate,  981 
of  soda,  981 
effervescing,  985 
of  sodium  arsenate,  985 
silicate,  985 

of  strychnine  hydrochlorate, 
987 

of  succinate  of  ammonium,  97 
of  zinc  chloride,  987 
Solutions,  947 
Solutol,  40,  45 
Solved,  40,  45 
Solvine,  79 
Somnal,  455,  459 
Sonnenblume,  807 
I Sonnenroschen,  807 
Sonnenthau,  589 
Sont,  5 

Sophora  Japonica,  1490 
sericea,  1490 
speciosa,  1490 
tinctoria,  322 
Sophorin,  Sophoretin,  1490 
Sorbes,  1491 
Sorbin,  Sorbit,  1491 
Sorbus  americana,  1491 
Aucuparia,  1491 
Cydonia,  572 
sambucifolia,  1491 
Sorghum-fruit,  1647 
saccharum,  1394 
Sorian  galls,  765 
Sorrel,  1185 
Souchet  des  Indes,  568 
Souci,  377 

Soude  caustique,  1448 
liquide,  981 
tartarisee,  1298 
Soufre,  1538 
dore  d’antimoine,  225 
lave,  1538 
precipite,  1538 
sublime,  1538 
vegetal,  1001 
Soulamea  amara,  1269 
Sour-gum,  927 
Sour-lime,  937 

Sous-acetate  de  plomb  liquide,  973 
Sous-azotate  de  bismuth,  342 
Sous-carbonate  de  bismuth,  341 
de  zinc,  1721 

Sous-nitrate  de  bismuth,  342 
Sous-muriate  de  mercure,  825 
Southern  buckthorn,  1375 
prickly  ash,  1716 
Southern-wood,  4 
Sow-bread,  572 
Soymida  febrifuga,  317 
Sozal,  40,  880 
Sozoiodol,  879 
Spa  spring,  268 
Spangriin,  561 
Spaniolitmin,  924 
Spanische  Fliegen,  396 
Spanischer  Pfeffer,  403 
Spanischfliegen-Papier,  443 
Spanischfliegen-Pflaster,  434 
Spanischfliegensalbe,  1661 
Spanischpfeffer-Aufguss,  405 
Spanischpfefferextrakt,  656 
Spanischpfefferoelharz,  1101 
I Spanischpfeffertinktur,  1611 


| Spanish  broom,  1432 
flies,  396 
liquorice,  674 
root,  786 
needles,  339 
oak,  1341 
pellitory,  1333 
saffron,  554 
white,  552 
Sparadrap,  599 
commun,  607 
de  capsique,  601 
de  colle  de  poisson,  603 
vesicant,  435 

Sparadrapum  adhsesivum,  603 
anthart  h ritic  u m , 442 
capsici,  601 

Sparattosperma  lithontripticum, 
901 

Spargancin,  300 
Spargel,  300 
Spargin,  300 
Spartein,  1432 
Sparteinae  sulphas,  1491 
Sparteine  sulphate,  1491 
Spartianthus  junceum,  1432 
Spartium  junceum,  1432 
Spath  pesant,  324 
Spatterdock,  1088 
Spearmint,  1033 

Species  ad  decoctum  lignorum,  796 
althaeae,  169 
aromaticae,  1033 
diureticum,  907 
emollientes,  169 
laxantes,  1442 
lignorum,  796 
pectorales,  169 
St.  Germain,  1442 
Speckol,  1103 
Speedwell,  1695 
I Spelt,  713 
Speltrum,  1733 
Spergularia  rubra,  1419 
Spermaceti,  439 
saccharated,  440 
Spermcedia  Clavus,  616 
Sphacelia  segetum,  615 
Sphacelotoxin,  618 
Sphaerococcus  crispus,  471 
edulis,  472 

Helminthochortos,  473 
lichenoides,  473 
mamillosus,  471 
palmatus,  472 
Spic,  933 
Spica  nardi,  1682 
Spice-bush,  932,  1012 
Spiessglanz,  223 
Spiessglanzbutter,  949 
Spigelia,  Spigelie,  1492 
anthelmia,  1492 
marilandica,  1492 
Spigelienextrakt,  705 
Spigelien-und-Senna-Extrakt,  706 
Spignet,  275 
Spike  lavender,  933 
Spikenard,  1682 
Spilanthes  Acmella,  1334 
oleracea,  514,  1334 
Spillbaumrindc,  629,  671 
Spillbaumrinden-Extrakt,  071 
Spindelbaum.  629 
Spindle  tree,  629 
Spiny  clotbur,  929 
Spiraea  Aruncus,  1494 
Filipendula,  1494 
stipulata,  777 
tomentosa,  1493 
trifoliata,  776 
Ulmaria,  1494 


1854 


Spirit  ammonia,  1499 
aromatic,  1500 
fetid,  1501 
anise,  1501 

balm,  compound,  1031 
bitter  almond,  1501 
cajuput,  1502 
camphor,  1502 
chloroform,  1502 
cinnamon,  1503 
ether,  1495 
compound,  1495 
French,  wine,  1508 
gaultheria,  1504 
glonoin,  1504 

horseradish,  compound,  1501 
juniper,  1505 
compound,  1505 
lavender,  1505 
compound,  1627 
lemon,  1506 
methylated,  152 
Mindererus,  948 
myrcia,  1506 
nitre,  sweet,  1495 
nitro-glycerin,  1504 
nitrous  ether,  1495 
nutmeg,  1507 
orange,  1502 
compound,  1502 
peppermint,  1506 
perfumed,  1507 
phosphorus,  1507 
potato,  148 
proof,  149,  1508 
pyroacetic,  11 
pyroligneous,  157 
pyroxylic,  157 
rectified,  147 
rosemary,  1508 
salt,  60 

spearmint,  1506 
Spirits,  1494 
Spiritus,  147,  1494 
sethereus,  130,  1495 
aetheris,  1495 
compositus,  1495 
nitrosi,  1493 

ammoniaci  caustici  Dzondii 
1499 

ammoniae,  1499 
aromaticus,  1500 
fcetidus,  1501 
amygdalae  amarae,  1501 
angelicae  compositus,  1682 
anisi,  1501 
anthos,  1508 

armoraciae  compositus,  1501 
aurantii,  1502 
compositus,  1502 
cajuputi,  1502 
camphorae,  1502 
camphoratus,  1502 
chloroformi,  1502 
cinnamomi,  1503 
cochleariae,  513 
coloniensis,  1507 
dilutus,  149 

ferri  chlorati  aethereus,  1619 
formicarum,  53,  54 
frumenti,  1503 
gaultheriae,  1504 
glonoini,  1504 
juniperi,  1505 
compositus,  1505 
lavandulae,  1505 
compositus,  1627 
limonis,  1506 
melissae  compositus,  1031 
menthae  piperitae,  1506 
viridis,  1506 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


Spiritus — 

Mindereri,  948 
myrciae,  1506 
myristicae,  1507 
nervinus  camphoratus,  942 
nitri  acidus,  72 
dulcis,  1495 
fumans,  73 

nitrico-aethereus,  1495 
odoratus,  1507 
phosphori,  1507 
pyroaceticus,  11 
pyroxylicus  recti  ficatus,  157 
rectificatus,  147 
rosmarini,  1508 
salis,  60 

salis  ammoniaci  causticus,  248 
saponis  kalinus  Hebra,  943 
sylvestris,  45 
tenuior.,  149,  1508 
verdiinnter,  149 
vini  cognac,  1508 
gallica,  1508 
rectificatissimus,  147 
rectificatus,  147,  149 
Spitta’s  lozenges,  1652 
Spitzklette,  929 
Spodium,  405 
Spodumene,  991 
Spogel-seed,  1257 
Sponge,  1509 
burnt,  1510 
compressed,  1510 
tent,  1510 
vegetable,  1510 
Spongia  cerata,  1510 
compressa,  1510 
officinalis,  1509 
usta,  1510 
Spongin,  1510 
Spoonwood,  907 
Spoonwort,  512 
Spotted  knotweed,  775 
wintergreen,  448 
Springgurke,  592 
Springkraut,  568 
Spring-water,  237 
Spritzgurke,  592 
Spruce  fir,  1252 
Spunk,  759 
Spurge,  632 
flax,  1039 
ipecac,  632 
large-flowering,  632 
laurel,  1039 

Spurious  cinchona-barks,  487 
Spurred  rye,  615 
Squalus  Carcharias,  1134 
Squash,  1200 
Squaw-root,  428,  614 
vine,  1045 
weed,  1656 
Squill,  1429 
Squine,  1424 
Squirrel  corn,  544 
Squirting  cucumber,  592 
Stachelmohn,  276 
Stachys  palustris,  934 
StafFtree-bark,  429 
Staff- vine,  429 
Stagger-bush,  908 
Stahlwein,  1705 
Stannic  salts,  1511 
sulphide,  24,  1511 
Stannous  salts,  1511 
Stannum,  1511 
Staphidis  agrise,  1512 
pedicularis,  1512 
Staphisagria,  1512 
macrocarpa,  1512 
Staphisagrine,  1513 


Staphisaigre,  1512 
Staphisaine,  1513 
Star-anise,  863 
Star-apple,  1047 
Starch,  201,  713 
gloss,  924 
iodized,  206 
soluble,  203 
sugar,  1396 
Star-grass,  158 
Starke,  201 
Starke-Glycerit,  783 
Starkendes  Pilaster,  602 
Starkeschleim,  1062 
Star-thistle,  414 
Starwort,  158,  442 
Statice,  1514 
caroliniana,  1514 
Limonum,  1514 
spec.,  1514 
Stavesacre,  1512 
Steapsin,  1189 
Stearates,  598,  1094 
Stearin,  124,  1444 
Stearinsaure,  96 
Stearopten,  1091 
Steatina,  Steatins,  433 
Steatite,  986 
Stechapfel,  1516 
Stechapfelsalbe,  1671 
Stechapfelsamenextrakt,  706,  707 
Stechapfelsamentinktur,  1638 
Stechkorner,  929 
Stechpalme,  861 
Steeple-bush,  1493 
Steer’s  opodeldoc,  942 
Steffensia  elongata,  1024 
Steinklee,  1030 
Steinkraut,  1435 
Steinol,  1209 
Stephanskorner,  1512 
Sterculia  acuminata,  362 
Sterlet,  860 
Sternanis,  863 
Sterndistel,  414 
Stibium  oxydatum,  221 

sulfuratum  aurantiacum,  225 
nigrum,  223 
rubeum,  225 
Stibnite,  224 
Sticking  plaster,  607 
Sticklac,  923 
Stickstoffoxydul,  1082 
Stiefmuttercben,  1710* 

Stigmata  croci,  554 
maydis,  1717 
Stilbene,  319 
Stillingia,  1515 
sebifera,  1515 
sylvatica,  1515 
Stillingienextrakt,  706 
Stingray,  1134 
Stink  asant,  295 

Stinkasantgeist,  ammoniak&lisch- 
er,  1501 

Stinkasantmilch,  611 
Stinkasant-Pflaster,  609 
Stink-bush,  864 
Stinkender  Gansefuss,  447 
Stinknessel,  934 
Stink  weed,  923 
Stipites  dulcamarae,  590 
Stizolobium  pruriens,  1063 
urens,  1064 

Stockfischleberthran,  1132 
Stockmalve,  168 
Stockrose,  168 
Stcechas,  933 
Stonecrop,  1435 
Stoneroot,  520 
Storax,  1532 


Storax,  liquid,  1532 
Storesin,  1533 
Storksbill,  774 
Stoughton’s  bitters,  1635 
Stramoine,  1516 
Stramonium-leaves,  1516 
seed,  1516 
Stramonin,  1517 
Strandnelke,  1514 
Strassburg  turpentine,  1586 
Strawberry-bush,  630 
tomato,  159 
Streupulver,  1001 
Stringy  bark,  1122 
Strobiii  humuli,  818 
lupuli,  818 

Strontii  bromidum,  1519 
iodidum,  1520 
lactas,  1521 

Strontium  bromide,  1519 
carbonate,  1520 
hydroxide,  1520 
iodide,  1520 
lactate,  1521 
milchsaurer,  1521 
Strophanthus,  1522 
dichotomus,  1523 
hispidus,  1522 
Strophanthussamen,  1522 
Strophanthussamentinktur,  1639 
Strychnia,  1525 
Strychnin,  1085,  1525 
Losung,  987 
schwefelsaures,  1527 
Strychnin®  acetas,  1527 
hydriodas,  1527 
hydrobromas,  1528 
hydrochloras,  1528 
nitras,  1528 
sulphas,  1527 
Strychnine  sulphate,  1527 
Strychninum,  1525 
nitricum,  1528 
sulphuricum,  1527 
Strychnos  Castelnaeana,  566 
cogens,  566 
colubrina,  1086 
Crevauxii,  566 
Gauthieriana,  1086 
Gubleri,  566 
guianensis,  566 
Ignatia,  Ignatii,  1086 
Nux  vomica,  211,  1084 
philippensis,  1086 
potatorum,  1086 
Schomburgkii,  566 
Tieute,  1086 
toxifera,  566 
Yapurensis,  566 

Strychnossamen  - Extrakt,  688, 
691 

Stryphnodendron  polyphyllum, 
427 

Stuhlzapfchen,  1545 
Sturmhut,  117 
Stypteria,  169 
Styptic  colloid,  523 
Styracin,  946,  1533 
Styracol,  799 
Styrene,  1533 
Styrax,  1532 
Benzoin,  334 
calamita,  1534 
liquidus,  1532 
officinale,  1534 
prseparatus,  1532,  1533 
Styrol,  946,  1533 
Styron,  Styrogenin,  1533 
Suakin  gum,  6,  7 
Subacetas  cupricus,  561 
plumbicus  liquidus,  973 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


Subazotas  bismuthicus,  342 
Subcarbonas  bismuthicus,  341 
Suberin,  1341 
Sublimatlosung,  969 
Sublimatum  corrosivum,  820 
Sublimatus  corrosivus,  820 
Sublime  corrosif,  820 
Subnitras  bismuthicus,  341 
Sue  de  belladone,  1534 
de  grande  cigue,  1535 
de  jusquiame,  1535 
de  reglisse,  674 
de  verjus,  1677 
Succi,  1534 

Succiu,  Succinum,  1155 
Succory,  1581 
Succus  belladonn®,  1534 
citro,  937 
conii,  1535 
hyoscyami,  1535 
limonis,  937 
liquiritiae,  674 
depuratus,  676 
mori,  1048 
mororum,  1048 
sambuci  inspissatus,  1407 
scoparii,  1535 
taraxaci,  1535 
thebaicus,  1167 

Sucrate  de  chaux  liquide,  1558 
Sucre,  1394 
de  canne,  1394 
de  lait,  1398 
de  saturne,  1258 
noir,  674 
Sucrol,  1393 
Sues  vegetaux,  1534 
Sudas  gigas,  860 
Suero,  917 
Suet,  1444 
Sugar,  1394 
of  lead,  1258 
of  milk,  1398 
refined,  1394 
Sugar-beet,  1394 
drops,  lozenges,  1650 
Suif,  1444 
de  Goa,  766 
de  mouton,  1444 
Suint,  126 

Sulfas  ammonicus,  191 
atropinse,  306 
cadmicus,  358 
cupricus,  561 
ferrosus,  740 
kalicus,  1313 
magnesicus,  1008 
manganosus,  1015 
mercuricus,  839 
morph  icus,  1057 
natricus,  1483 
potassicus,  1313 
quinicus,  1349 
sodicus,  1483 
zincicus,  1729 

See  also  Sulphas. 

Sulfate  d’alumine,  175 
et  de  potasse,  169 
d’ammoniaque,  191 
d’atropine,  306 
de  bebeerine,  325 
de  cadmium,  358 
de  chaux, 376 
de  cinchonidine,  493 
de  cinchonine,  497 
de  cuivre,  561 
ammoniacal,  562 
d’eserine,  1224 
de  fer,  740 
ammoniacal,  723 
desseche,  742 


1855 


Sulfate — 

de  fer  et  d’ammoniaque,  723 
d’hyoscyamine,  852 
de  magnesie,  1008 
de  manganese,  1015 
de  morphine,  1057 
de  nickel,  1079 
de  potasse,  1313 
de  quinidine,  1343 
de  quinine,  1349 
acide,  1345 
de  soude,  1483 
de  spartein,  1491 
de  strychnine,  1527 
de  zinc,  1729 
ferreux,  740 
desseche,  742 
precipite,  741 
ferrique  ammouiacale,  723 
jaune  de  mercure,  838 
manganeux,  1015 
mercurique,  839 
trimercurique,  838 
Sulfato  de  zinc,  1729 
di  bibirina,  325 
Sulfaurat,  225 
Suifis  kalicus,  1314 
magnesicus,  1010 
natricus,  1484 
potassicus,  1314 
sodicus,  1484 
Sulfite  de  chaux,  376 
de  magnesie,  1010 
de  potasse,  1314 
de  soude,  1484 
sulfure  de  soude,  1470 
Sulfocyanure  de  potasse,  1300 
Sulfonalum,  1535 
Sulfophenate  de  soude,  1486 
Sulfovinate  de  soude,  1487 
Sulfur  depuratum,  1538 
iodatum,  1543 

Sulfure  d’antimoine,  depure,  223 
hydrate,  225 
precipite,  224 
de  calcium,  384 
de  carbone,  409 
de  chaux,  384 
liquide,  384 
de  fer,  742 
de  potasse,  1273 
rouge  de  mercure,  839 
Sulfuretum  hydrargyricum,  839 
stibicum,  223 
Sulfuro  de  antimonio,  223 
hidratado,  224 
di carbonia,  409 
Sulphaldeliyde,  1195 
Sulphaminol,  880 
Sulphas  aluminico-ammonicus, 
169 

aluminico-potassicus,  169 
ammonico-ferricus,  723 
hydrargyricus  flavus,  838 
See  also  Sulfas. 

Sulphocarbol,  40 
Sulphocarbonates,  410 
Sulphocyanure  de  potassium, 
1300 

Sulphomorphid,  235 
Sulphophenate  de  soude,  1486 
Sulphophenol,  40 
Sulphonal,  1535 
Sulphosinapisin,  1446 
Sulphur,  1538 
amorphous,  1539 
auratum,  224 
antimonii,  225 
crystalline,  1539 
depuratum,  1538 
dioxide,  104 


1856 


Sulphur — 
golden,  225 
iodide,  1543 
lotum,  1538 

precipitated,  1538,  1539 
prsecipitatum,  1538 
lozenges,  1655 
roll,  1538 
rough,  1538  ' 

stibiatum  aurantiacum,  225 
rubeum,  225 
subchloride,  1544 
subiodide,  1544 
sublimatum,  1538 
sublimed,  1538 
vegetabile,  1001 
washed,  1538 
water,  269 

Sulphuretted  hydrogen,  742 
Sulphuretum  ferrosum,  742 
Sulphuric  anhydride,  99 
Sulphuris  iodidum,  1543 
Sulphurous  anhydride,  104 
Sultan  coffee,  361 
Sultana  raisins,  1678 
Sumac,  1380 
des  corroyeurs,  543 
veneneux,  1382 
Sumach,  1380 
coral,  1382 
dwarf,  1381 
poison,  1382 
smooth,  1381 
staghorn,  1381 
sweet,  1381 
upland,  1380 

Sumachbeerenextrakt,  699 
Sumatra  benzoin,  334 
camphor,  388 
Surnbul,  1544 
balsam,  1545 
root,  1544 
Sumbuline,  1545 
Sumbultinktur,  1639 
Sumbulus  moschatus,  1544 
Summer  savory,  859 
Summitates  absinthii,  3 
achillese,  16 
meliloti,  1030 
millefolii,  16 
sabinse,  1391 
tanaceti,  1578 
Sumpfkornel,  544 
Sumpfnelkenwurzel,  776 
Sumpfporst,  907 
Sumpfsilge,  1436 
Sumpfziest,  934 
Sundew,  589 
Sunflower,  807 
Suppositoires,  1545 
Suppositoria,  1545 
acidi  carbolici,  1548 
cum  sapone,  1548 
tannici,  1548 
cum  sapone,  1543 
aloes,  1548 
asafcetidse,  1548 
belladonnae,  1548 
glycerini,  1549 
hydrargyri,  1549 
morphinse,  1548 
cum  sapone,  1550 
opii,  1548 
plumbi,  1548 
composita,  1050 
et  opii,  1548 
Suppositories,  768,  1545 
carbolic  acid,  1548 
compound  lead,  1550 
de  glycerin,  1549 
mercurial,  1549 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


Suppositories — 
morphia,  1550 
rectal,  1546 
tannic  acid,  1549 
urethral,  1546,  1548 
vaginal,  1546 
Sureau,  1406 
Surelle,  1185 
Surgeon’s  agaric,  759 
Surinam  cabbage-tree  bark,  208 
quassia,  1339 
Surinamine,  208 
Sus  scrofa,  123 
Siissholz,  786 
Siissholzextrakt,  675,  676 
Siissmandelol,  1107 
Suterberry,  1715 
Swallowwort,  299 
Swamp  dogwood,  430,  544 
laurel,  907 
milkweed,  298 
pine,  1584 
sassafras,  1011 
Swedish  bitters,  1606 
balsam,  1609 
Sweet  basil,  933 
bay,  931,  1011 
birch,  338 
clover,  1030 
fern,  526 
flag,  367 
gale,  1065 
gum,  946 
lime,  937 
marjoram,  1184 
orange-peel,  312 
Sweet-scented  bedstraw,  763 
shrub,  1012 
violet,  1711 
Sweetwood-bark,  417 
Swertia  Cbirata,  451 
Swietenia  febrifuga,  317 
Mahagoni,  317 
Swine-cress,  514 
Swiss  blue,  730 
Sydenham’s  laudanum,  1707 
Sylvie,  1323 
Symphytum,  1550 
oflicinale,  583,  1550 
Symplocarpus  fcetidus,  588 
Synaptase,  194 
Syrup,  1553 
almond,  1555 
althaea,  1555 
asafoetida,  611 
blackberry,  1568 
bromide  of  iron,  1560 
buckthorn,  1374,  1567 
citric  acid,  1553 
cherry,  1569 
chloral,  1558 
croup,  1571 
fennel,  753 
ferrous  bromide,  1560 
chloride,  1561 
iodide,  1560 
garlic,  1555 
ginger,  1573 
gum-arabic,  1553 
hemidesmus,  1562 
hive,  1571 
hydriodic  acid,  1554 
hypnone,  12 
hypopbospbites,  1562 
with  iron,  1563 
iodide  of  iron,  1558 

and  manganese,  1016 
of  manganese,  1016 
of  zinc,  1726 
iodo-tannin,  889 
ipecac,  1563 


Syrup— 
krameria,  1564 

lactopbospbate  of  calcium,  1557 
lactucarium,  1564 
lemon,  1565 
lime,  1558 
liquorice-root,  787 
maidenhair,  128 
manna,  1019 
marshmallow,  1555 
mulberries,  1565 
orange,  1556 
orange-flowers,  1557 
orgeat,  1555 
parietaria,  1198 
peppermint,  1033 
phosphate  of  iron,  1560 
phosphates,  1562 

of  iron,  quinine,  and  strych- 
nine, 1562 
pine-shoots,  1587 
pomegranate,  1569 
poppies,  1565 

protochloride  of  iron,  1561 
pyrophosphate  of  iron,  1561 
quince,  1569 
raspberry,  1568 
red  poppy,  1568 
rose,  1568 
rbatany,  1564 
rhubarb,  1567 
aromatic,  1567 
spiced,  1567 
rubus,  1568 
saffron,  556 

sarsaparilla,  compound,  1569 
senega,  1571 
senna,  1571 
simple,  1553 

soluble  ferric  oxide,  736,  737 
squill,  1570 
compound,  1570 
strawberry,  1569 
sweet  gum,  947 
bark,  947 
tar,  1566 
Tolu,  1572 
vanilla,  1685 
wild-cherry,  1566 
Syrupi,  Syrups,  1551 
Syrups,  medicated,  1551 
simple,  1551 
Syrupus,  1553 
Syrupus  acaciae,  1553 
acidi  citrici,  1553 
bydriodici,  1554 
adianti,  128 
albus,  1553 
allii,  1555 
althaeae,  1555 
amygdalae,  1555 
amygdalarum,  1555 
asparagi,  300 
aurantii,  1556 
corticis,  1556 
floris,  florum,  1557 
balsami  peruviani,  1573 
balsamicus,  1573 
calcii  hypophosphitis,  373,  1557 
compositus,  1562 
lactopbosphatis,  1557 
phospbatis,  375 
calcis,  calcariae,  1558 
capillorum  veneris,  128 
capitum  papaveris,  1565 
cerasi,  cerasorum,  1569 
chamomillae,  1027 
chloral,  1558 
cinnamomi,  501 
communis,  1597 
croci,  556 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


1857 


Syrupus — 
cvdoni®,  1569 
diacodii,  1565 
Eatoni,  156*2 
emulsivus,  1555 
ferri  bromidi,  1560 
citro-iodidi,  1560 
iodati,  iodidi,  1558 
oxydati,  736 
pliospbatis.  1560 
phosphorici  cum  chinino  et 
strychnin  o,  1562 
protochloridi,  1561 
quinin®  et  strychnin®  plios- 
phaturn,  1562 
subchloridi,  1561 
foeniculi,  753 
fragari®,  1569 
fuscus,  1597 
glycyrrhiz®,  787 
granati,  1569 
gummosus,  1553 
hemidesmi,  1562 
hollandicus,  1597 
hy  pophosph  itum , 1562 
cum  ferro,  1563 
iodo-tannicus,  1564 
ipecacuanh®,  1563 
krameri®,  1564 
lactucarii,  1564 
limonis,  1565 
liquiriti®,  787 
mann®,  1019 
menth®  piperit®,  1033 
mori,  1565 
mororum,  1565 
opiatus,  1565 
papaveris,  1565 
phosphatum  comp.,  1561 
piceus,  1566 
picis  iodatus,  1566 
liquid®,  1566 
pruni  Virginian®,  1566 
ratanh®,  1564 
rhamni,  1567 
cathartic®,  1374,  1567 
rhei,  1567 
aromaticus,  1567 
rhceados,  1568 
ros®  gallic®,  1568 
rosarum  rubrarum,  1568 
rubi,  1568 
id®i,  1568 
sacchari,  1553 

sarsaparill®  compositus,  1569 
scill®,  1570 
aceti,  1570 
compositus,  1570 
seneg®,  1571 
senn®,  1571 
cum  manna,  1572 
simplex,  1553 
spin®  cervin®,  1567 
succi  citri,  1565 
sudorificus,  1569 
tolutanus,  1572 
valerian®,  1682 
vanill®,  1685 
viol®  odorat®,  1711 
zinci  iodidi,  1726 
zingiberis,  1573 

TABAC,  1573 
Tabaco,  1573 
Tabacum,  1573 
Tabak-Klystier,  614 
Tabaksblatter,  1573 
Tabell®,  1649 

cum  bicarbonate  sodico,  1655 

cum  catechu,  1651 

cum  chlorate  potassico,  1654 

117 


I Tabell® — 

cum  ipecacuanha,  1653 
cum  oleo  menth®  piperit®,  1654 
cum  subnitrate  bismuthico,  1651 
1 Table  salt,  1466 

Tables:  alkali  salts,  official,  1758 
approximate  measures,  1772 
chemical  formul®  and  molecu- 
lar weights,  1759 
| v density  of  acetic  acid,  21 
of  alcohol,  151 
of  ammonia-water,  250 
of  ether,  131 
of  glycerin,  779 
of  hydrobromic  acid,  58 
of  hydrochloric  acid.  62 
of  nitric  acid,  74 
of  phosphoric  acid,  85 
of  solution  of  potassa,  977 
of  soda,  982 
of  sulphuric  acid,  100 
of  sulphurous  acid,  104 
of  tartaric  acid,  111 
elements,  1759 

equivalents  of  measures  of 
length,  1773 

equivalents  of  weights  and 
measures,  1766 
expansion  of  gases,  1753 
extracts  and  fluid  extracts,  638 
hydrometers,  1774 
measures  of  length,  1773 
of  surface,  1774 
neutralization,  1041,  1757 
paraffins,  1193 
reagents,  1739 

relation  between  Baume’s  hy- 
drometers and  specific 
gravities,  1774 
saturations,  1041,  1757 
thermometric  equivalents,  1775 
weights  and  measures,  1771 
I metric,  1771 
| Tablet  triturates,  1238 
: Tablets,  compressed,  1649 
! Tablettes,  1649 
chalybees,  1652 
de  baume  de  Tolu,  1650 
bicarbonate  de  soude,  1655 
borate  de  soude,  1650 
cachou,  1651 
calomel,  1650 
charbon,  1650 
chlorate  de  potasse,  1654 
craie  lavee,  1651 
fer,  1652 
gingembre,  1656 
gomme,  1650 
guimauve,  1650 
ipecacuanh®,  1654 
kermes,  1650 
P hydrate  de  fer,  1652 
lichen,  1650 
manne,  1650 
men  the,  1654 

morphine  et  ipecacuanh®,  1654 
ratanhia,  1653 
santonin,  1654 

se  lammoniac,  1651 
soufre,  1650 
tannin,  1650 
[ Tacamahaca.  1587 
Tacca  oceanica,  205 
pinnatifida,  205 
Tacsonia  molissima,  1200 
tripartita,  1200 
Taffetas  adh®sivum,  603 
d’Angleterre,  603 
vesicant,  435 

Tagetes  erecta,  patula,  377 
i Tahiti  arrowroot,  205 


Talauma  mexicana,  1012 
Talc,  Talcum,  986 
Talca  or  Talha  gum,  7 
Talg,  1444 

Tallow,  bayberry,  1064 
Tallows,  1092 
Tamarin,  Tamarind,  1577 
whey,  917 
Tamarindien,  1578 
Tamarindenmolken,  917 
Tamarindenmus,  1577 
Tamarindus,  1577 
indica,  1577 
occidentalis,  1577 
officinalis,  1577 
Tamarinier,  1577 
Tamarisk  galls,  765 
Tamarix  africana,  765 
gallica,  765 
mannifera,  1019 
orientalis,  765 
Tampicin,  903 
Tampico  jalap,  903 
sarsaparilla,  1423 
Tanacetum,  Tanaceto,  1578 
balsamita,  1579 
crispum,  1579 
Parthenium,  1198 
vulgare,  1578 
Tanaisie,  1578 
Tannas  bismuthicus,  345 
Tannate  de  bismuth,  345 
Tannin,  106,  765 
Tannin-Glycerit,  783 
Tannin-Kollodium,  523 
Tanninpastillen,  1650 
Tanninsalbe,  1659 
Tanninum,  106 
Tansy,  1578 
Tantalite,  1511 
Tapioca,  205 
meal,  205 
saccharated,  1255 
Tapsia,  1591 
Tar,  1254 
Tararemu,  566 

Taraxacin,  Taraxacerin,  1580 
Taraxacum,  1580 
dens-leonis,  1580 
officinale,  1580 
vulgare,  1580 
Tariteng,  566 
Tarragon,  4,  1110 
Tartar  emetic,  217 
Tartarus  boraxatus,  1316 
depuratus,  1280 
emeticus,  217 
ferratus,  726 
natronatus,  1298 
solubilis,  1315 
ammoniatus,  1316 
stibiatus,  217 
tartarisatus,  1315 
vitriolatus,  1313 
Tartras  borico-potassicus,  1316 
ferrico-kalicus,  725 
ferrico-potassicus,  725 
kalicus,  1315 
potassico-ferricus,  725 
potassico-sodicus,  1298 
potassicus,  1315 

Tartrate  borico-potassique,  1316 
de  fer  et  ammoniaque,  724 
et  de  potasse,  725 
de  potasse,  1315 

et  d’ammoniaque,  1316 
et  d’antimoine,  217 
ferrico-potassique,  725 
ferrique  ammoniacal,  724 
Tartrato  de  potassa  y antimonio, 
217 


1858 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


Tartrato  di  antimonio  e di  potas- 
sio,  217 

Tartre  borate,  1316 
chalybe,  725 
martial,  725 
soluble,  1315,  1316 
stibie,  217 

Tartro-borate  de  potasse  et  de 
soude,  1316 
Tatze,  910 
Trubnessel,  934 
Tauma-gere,  566 
Taumelkorn,  997 
Taunus  spring,  267 
Taurin,  715 

Tausendguldenkraut,  1391 
Taxine,  1582 
Taxus  baccata,  1582 
brevifolia,  1582 
canadensis,  1582 
bibernica,  1582 
nucifera,  1582 
Tayuya-root,  354 
Te  de  China,  1592 
de  Espana,  447 
Tea,  1592 
green,  1592 
Mexican,  447 
New  Jersey,  429 
Oswego,  1046 
Paraguay,  862 
Teaberry,  767 
Tecoma  radicans,  423 
Teinture  acetate  de  fer,  1618 
aconit,  racine,  1605 
actee  a grappes,  1614 
aloes,  1605 
arnica,  fleur,  1606 
racine,  1606 

aromatique  sulfurique,  103 
asafcetida,  1607 
balsamique,  1609 
baume  de  Tolu,  1639 
belladone,  1608 
benjoin,  1608 
bryone  blanche,  1609 
buchu, 1610 
cachou,  1613 
cannelle,  1615 
cantharides,  1611 
cardamome,  1612 
composee,  1612 
cascarille,  1612 
castoreum,  1613 
chanvre  d’lnde,  1610 
chirette,  1613 
cigue,  1616 
citron,  1627 
cochenille,  1616 
colchique,  1616 
Colombo,  1610 
cubebe,  1617 
digitale,  1617 
ellebore  noir,  809 
feve  du  Calabar,  1633 
gayac,  1622 
ammoniacale,  1622 
gelsemium,  1621 
gentiane,  1621 
alkaline,  1621 
stomachique,  1621 
gingembre,  1641 
hellebore  blanc,  1641 
houblon,  1622 
hydrastis,  1623 
iode,  1623 
jalap,  1625 
jusquiame,  1623 
kino,  1625 
lactucarium,  1626 
lavande  composee,  1627 


Teinture — 
limon,  1627 
lobelia  enflee,  1627 
matico,  1628 
meleze,  1626 
muse,  1628 
myrrhe,  1628 
noix  de  galle,  1620 
vomique,  1629 
opium,  1629 
ammoniacale,  1631 
camphree,  1631 
orange  amere,  1607 
douce,  1607 

perchlorure  de  fer,  1618 
piment  de  jardins,  1611 
polygala  de  Yirginie,  1637 
pyrethre,  1634 
quassie  amere,  1634 
quillaya,  1634 
quinquina  jaune,  1614 
composee,  1615 
ratanliia,  1625 
resine  de  gayac,  1621 
rhubarbe,  1635 
aromatique,  1634 
douce,  1636 
sabine,  1636 
safran,  1616 
sanguinaire,  1637 
sapin  composee,  1587 
savon,  942 
vert,  943 
scille,  1637 
seigle  ergote,  1617 
semences  de  stramoine,  1638 
sene  aromatique,  1638 
serpentaire,  1638 
souci,  1610 
strophanthe,  1639 
surnbul,  1639 
thebaique,  1629 
valeriane,  1640 
ammoniacale,  1640 
vanille,  1640 
veratre  vert,  1641 
Teintures,  1602 
Tejo,  1582 

Teneriffe  wine,  1699 
Tephrosia  appolinea,  1441,  1583 
leptostachya,  1583 
purpurea,  1583 
spinosa,  1583 
toxicaria,  1583 
virginiana,  1583 
Terebangelene,  210 
Terebene,  1157,  1583 
Terebenin,  1583 
Terebenthine,  1584 
Terebenum,  1583 
Terebinthina,  1584 
argentoratensis,  1586 
canadensis,  1584 
chia,  1586 
communis,  1584 
cypria,  1586 
lariciua,  1586 
veneta,  1586 

Terebinthine  d’  Alsace,  1586 
de  Strasbourg,  1586 
de  Vosges,  1586 
du  Canada,  1584 
Terminalia  catappa,  1107 
spec.,  335,  1067 
Terpene,  1091 
Terpentin,  1584 
Terpentinliniment,  943 
und  Essig,  944 
Tcrpentinol,  1156 
Klystier,  614 
Latwerge,  530 


Terpentinsalbe,  1672 
Terpin,  1187,  1587 
hydrate,  1587 
Terpini  hydras,  1587 
Terpinum  hydratum,  1587 
Terra  alba,  349 
foliata  tartari,  1275 
crystallisata,  1450 
japonica,  425,  427 
lemuia,  349 
Terrae  sigillatae,  349 
Terre  de  Nouvelle-Orleans,  291 
douce  de  vitriol,  735 
Testa  ovi,  1713 
prseparata,  553 
Tests,  Bettendorf’s,  27 
Boettger’s,  1397 
Brouardel-Boutmy’s,  770 
DelfFs,  835 
E.  Hoffmann’s,  39 
Einbrodt’s,  250 
Erdmann’s,  515 
Fehling’s,  1397 
Fleitmann’s,  27 
Frohde’s,  518,  548,  1051 
Gawalowski’s,  1397 
Grahe’s,  485 
Gutzeit’s,  27 
Kerner’s,  1345 
Koppescharr’s,  39 
Lieben’s,  320 
Liebig’s,  65 
Marsh’s,  26 
Maumene’s,  1397 
Mayer’s,  835 
Mi  lion’s,  968 
Moore’s,  1397 
Nessler’s,  250,  835 
Pettenkofer’s,  715,  1397 
Plugge’s,  39 
Eeinsch’s,  27 
Sachsse’s,  1397 
Salkowski’s,  39 
Schoenbein’s,  65 
Schmidt’s,  1397 
Schneider’s,  770 
Selmi’s,  770 
thalleiochin,  1345 
Tollen’s,  1397 
Trommer’s,  1397 
Tetanocannabine,  394 
Tetes  de  pavots,  1191 
Tetraclilor-methane,  411,  1037 
j Tetrachloroquinone,  89 
Tetraiodopyrrol,  879 
Tetramethylthionine  chloride, 
213 

Tetranthera  californica,  1427 
Tetronal,  1536 
Tetterworth,  445,  1408 
Teucrium  spec.,  1588,  1589 
Teufelsdreck,  295 
Texas  rhatany,  912 
sarsaparilla,  1032 
snake-root,  1443 
Thaleioquin,  1345 
Thalictrum  macrocarpum,  1323 
Thallinse  sulphas,  1589 
tartras,  1590 
Thai  line,  1589 
sulphate,  1589 
tartrate,  1590 

Thallinum  sulfuricum,  1589 
Thallochlor,  441 
Thapsia,  1591 
garganica,  1591 
Sylphium,  1592 
Thapsiapflaster,  1592 
Thapsie,  1591 
The,  1592 
de  terre  neuve,  767 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


1859 


The— 

desjesuites,  447 
da  Canada,  767 
Thea,  1592 
camellia,  1593 
chinensis,  1592 
japonica,  1595 
oleosa,  1594 
Thebaine,  1171 

Theden’s  vulnerary  water,  102 
Wundwasser,  102 
Thee,  1592 
canadischcr,  767 
harntreibender,  907 
Theer,  1254 
Theerglycerol,  1255 
Theerol,  1143 
Theersalbe,  1669 
Theersirup,  1566 
Theerwasser,  264,  1255 
Theine,  361,  1593 
Theobroma  bicolor,  1595 
Cacao,  1161,  1595 
spec.,  1595 
Theobromine,  1595 
Tberiaca,  1597 
Tberiak,  528 
Theriaque,  528 
Thermal  springs,  268 
Thevetia  spec.,  1096 
Thevetosin,  1096 
Thibet  musk,  1059 
Thierkohle,  405 
Thierol,  aetherisches,  1109 
Thilanin,  126 
Thimbleberry,  1387 
Thiobromine,  1596 
Thiolum,  Thiol,  861,  1209 
Thiosinamin,  1155 
Thiophene,  879 
Thioresorcin,  1371 
Thioxydiphenylamine,  879 
Thistle,  blessed,  413 
carline,  876 
Thlaspi  arvense,  514 
Bursa  pastoris,  513 
campestris,  514 
champetre,  514 
Thonerde,  salpetersaure,  176 
schwefelsaure,  175 
Thonerdehydrat,  173 
Thornapple,  1516 
Thorough  wort,  631 
Thridacium,  Thridace,  683 
Thuja  articulata,  1023 
gigantea,  1598 
occidentals,  1598 
orientalis,  1598 
Thujin,  Thujigenin,  1598 
Thus,  1166 
americana,  1584,  1599 
Thym,  859 
Thymacetin,  1600 
Thymelee,  1039 
Thymene,  1162 
Thymian,  859 
Thymianol,  1162 
Thymiansaure,  1599 
Thymol,  1046,  1599 
Thymolum,  1599 
Thymus  citriodorus,  859 
Serpyllum,  859 
vulgaris,  859 

Thysselinum  palustre,  1436 
Tigala,  1019 

Tiges  de  douce-amere,  590 
de  morelle  grimpante,  590 
Tiglium  officinale,  1163 
Tilia  spec.,  1601,  1602 
Tilleul,  1601 
Tilo,  1601 


Tin,  1511 

Tin-white  cobalt,  293 
Tinctura  absinthii,  5 
composita,  1635 
aconiti,  1605 
radicis,  1605 
aloes,  1605 

composita,  1606 
et  myrrhae,  1605 
amara,  312 
ambne,  179 
arnicae,  1606 
florurn,  1606 
radicis,  1606 
aromatica,  501 
acida,  103 
asafoetidae,  1607 
aetherea,  1607 
aurantii,  1607 
amari,  1607 
dulcis,  1607 
recentis,  1608 
balsamica,  1609 
belladonnae,  1608 
aetherea,  1608 
foliorum,  1608 
benzoes,  1608 
benzoini,  1608 
composita,  1609 
bryoniae,  1609 
buchu,  1610 
calami,  368 
calendulae,  1610 
calumbae,  1610 
camphorae,  1502 
composita,  1631 
cannabis  indicae,  1610 
cantharides,  cantharidum,  1611 
capsici,  1611 
cardamomi.  1612 
composita,  1612 
cascarillae,  1612 
castorei,  1613 
aetherea,  1613 
catechu,  1613 
composita,  1613 
chinae,  1614 
composita,  1615 
chinoidini,  449 
chiratae,  1613 

chloroformi  composita,  1614 
et  morphinae,  1614 
cimicifugae,  1614 
cinchonae,  1614 
composita,  1615 
flavae,  1614 
cinnamomi,  1615 
cocci,  1616 
colchici,  1616 
seminis,  1616 
colocynthidis,  525 
Colombo,  1610 
conii,  1616 
croci,  1616 
cubebae,  1617 

cupri  acetici  Rademacheri,  561 
digitalis,  1617 
aetherea,  1617 
ergotae,  1617 
euphorbii,  634 
ferri  acetatis,  1618 
acetici  aetherea,  1618 
chlorati  aetherea,  1619 
chloridi,  1618 
perchloridi,  1618 
pomata,  745 
sesquichloridi,  1618 
formicarum,  399 
gallae,  1620 
gallarum,  1620 
gelsemii,  1621 


Tinctura — 
gentianae,  1621 
alkalina,  1621 
composita,  1621 
guaiaci,  1621 
ammoniata,  1622 
ligni,  1622 
hamamelidis,  805 
hellebori,  809 
humuli,  1622 
hydrastis,  1623 
hyoscyami,  1623 
iodi,  1623 
decolorata,  1624 
iodinii  composita,  1624 
ipecacuanhae  et  opii,  1624 
jaborandi,  1230 
jalape,  1625 
kino,  1625 
krameriae,  1625 
lactucarii,  1626 
lappae  fructus,  929 
laricis,  1626 

lavandulae  composita,  1627 
limonis,  1627 
lobeliae,  1627 
aetherea,  1627 
lupuli,  1622 
lupulinae,  999 
ammoniata,  999 
macidis,  1004 
matico,  1628 
meconii,  1629 
moschii,  1628 
myrrhae,  1628 
nucis  vomicae,  162£ 
opii,  1629 
acetata,  1631 
ammoniata,  1631 
camphorata  (benzoica),  1631 
crocata,  1707 
deodorata,  1632 
extracti,  1629 
camphorata,  1631 
muriatica,  1631 
simplex,  1629 
physostigmatis,  1633 
picis  betulae,  1255 
pimpinellae,  936 
pini  composita,  1587 
podophylli,  1268 
pyrethri,  1634 
quassiae,  1634 
quebracho,  303 
quillajae,  1634 
quininae,  1634 
ammoniata,  1635 
ratanhiae,  1625 
resinae  jalapae,  1368 
rhei,  1635 
amara,  1635 
aquosa,  1635 
aromatica,  1636 
Darelii,  1707 
dulcis,  215,  1636 
et  absinthii,  1535 
composita,  1635 
et  aloes,  1635 
et  gentianae,  1635 
et  sennae,  1635 
vinosa,  1707 
rusci,  1255 
sabin  ae,  1636 
sanguinariae,  1637 
saponis  viridis,  943 
scillae,  1637 
kalina,  1637 
secalis  cornuti,  1617 
senegae,  1637 
sennae,  1638 
serpentariae,  1638 


1860 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


Tinctura — 

spilanthis  composita,  1334 
stramonii,  1638 
seminis,  1638 
strophanthi,  1639 
strychni,  1629 
setherea,  1629 
sumbul,  1639 
thebaica,  1629 
tolutana,  1639 
tonico-nervina  Bestucheflii, 
1619 

toxicodendri,  1382 
Valerianae,  1640 
setherea,  1640 
ammoniata,  1640 
vanillae,  1640 
veratri  viridis,  1641 
zingiberis,  1641 
fortior,  1642 
Tincturae,  1602 

herbarum  recentium,  1604 
Tincture,  acetate  of  iron,  1618 
aconite,  1605 
root,  1605 
Fleming’s,  1605 
aloes,  1605 
and  myrrh,  1605 
compound,  1606 
American  hellebore,  1641 
arnica-flowers,  1606 
root,  1606 
asafcetida,  1607 
bark,  Huxham’s,  1615 
belladonna,  1608 
leaves,  1608 
benzoin,  1608 
compound,  1609 
Bestuclieff’s,  1619 
bitter,  312 
orange-peel,  1607 
birch-tar,  1255 
black  snake-root,  1614 
blood-root,  1637 
bryonia,  1609 
buchu, 1610 
calendula,  1610 
calumba,  1610 
camphor,  1502 
cantharides,  1611 
capsicum,  1611 
cardamom,  1612 
compound,  1612 
cascarilla,  1612 
castor,  1613 

catechu,  compound,  1613 
chinoidine,  449 
chirata,  1613 
chloride  of  iron,  1618 
chloroform,  compound,  1614 
cimicifuga,  1614 
cinchona,  1614 
compound,  1615 
cinnamon,  1615 
cochineal,  1616 
colchicum,  1616 
seed,  1616 
colocynth,  525 
columbo,  1610 
conium,  1616 
coto-bark,  1078 
cubeb,  1617 
digitalis,  1617 
Dover’s  powder,  1625 
emulsive,  1342 
ergot,  1617 
ferric  acetate,  1618 
chloride,  1618 
fresh  orange-peel,  1608 
galls,  1620 
gelsemium,  1621 


Tincture — 
gentian,  1621 
compound,  1621 
ginger,  1641 
strong,  1642 
green  hellebore,  1641 
soap,  943 
guaiac,  1621 

guaiacum,  ammoniated,  1622 
Dewees’,  1622 
wood,  1622 
hamamelis,  805 
hellebore,  809 
hops,  1622 
hydrastis,  1623 
hyoscyamus,  1623 
Indian  cannabis,  1610 
hemp,  1610 
iodine,  1623 
Churchill’s,  1624 
compound,  1624 
decolorized,  1624 
ipecac  and  opium,  1624 
iron,  tasteless,  1619 
jalap,  1625 
kino,  1625 
krameria,  1625 
lactucarium,  1626 
larch,  1626 

lavender,  compound,  1627 
lemon-peel,  1627 
litmus,  924 
lobelia,  1627 
ethereal,  1628 
lupulin,  999 
ammoniated,  999 
marigold,  1610 
matico,  1628 
musk,  1628 
myrrh,  1628 
nutgall,  1620 
nux  vomica,  1629 
opium,  1629 
ammoniated,  1631 
camphorated,  1631 
denarcotized,  1632 
deodorized,  1632 
orange-peel,  1607 
bitter,  1607 
sweet,  1607 
pellitory,  1634 
perchloride  of  iron,  1618 
phosphorus,  1507 
physostigma,  1633 
pine-shoots,  comp.,  1587 
pyretlirum,  1634 
quassia,  1634 
quillajse,  1634 
quinine,  1634 
ammoniated,  1634 
rhatany,  1625 
rhubarb,  1635 
and  senna,  1635 
aromatic,  1636 
sweet,  1636 
saffron,  1616 
sanguinaria,  1637 
savin,  1636 
senega,  1637 
senna,  1638 
serpentaria,  1638 
soap,  942 
soapbark,  1634 
spilanthes,  comp.,  1334 
squill,  1637 
stramonium,  1638 
seed,  1638 
strophanthus,  1639 
sumbul,  1639 
sweet  orange-peel,  1607 
Tolu,  1639 


Tincture — 
valerian,  1640 
ammoniated,  1640 
vanilla,  1640 
veratrum  viride,  1641 
Warburg’s,  1352 
yellow  cinchona,  1614 
Tinctures,  1602 
ethereal,  1604 
of  fresh  herbs,  1604 
Tinker’s  weed,  1646 
Tinkturen,  1602 
Tinnevelly  senna,  1440 
Tinstone,  1511 
Tintura  de  acibar,  1605 
de  benjui,  1608 
canela,  1615 
castoreo  etereo,  1613 
corteza  de  naranjos,  1615 
compuesta,  1615 
digitale  etereo,  1617 
extracto  de  opio,  1629 
quina,  1614 

semilla  de  colchico,  1616 
veratri  viridis,  1641 
yodo,  1623 
Tipa,  304 

Tisane  de  capsique,  405 
d’herbe  a fievre,  631 
royale,  874 
sudorifique,  579 
Tisanes,  575,  866 
Tithymalis  Lathy ris,  568 
Tizon  de  centeno,  615 
Toad-flax,  938 
Tobacco,  1573 
Todtenblume,  377 
Todtenkopf,  735 
Toile  vesicant,  435 
Tokay  wine,  1699 
Tolene,  321 
Tollkirsche,  327 
Tollkirschen-Extrakt,  652 
fliissiges,  653 
Tollkirschensalbe,  1661 
Tollkraut,  327 
Toloache,  1516 
Tolomane,  204 
Tolu  balsam,  320 
Tolubalsamsirup,  1572 
Tolubalsamtinktur,  1639 
Toluene,  Toluol,  321,  332,  1255 
Toluidine,  212 
Toluifera  Balsamum,  320 
Pereirse,  318 
peruifera,  321 
punctata,  321 
Tomato,  strawberry,  159 
Tomillo,  859 
Tonga,  294 
Tongine,  294 
Tonka  beans,  1030 
Tonquin  musk,  1059 
Toothache  bush,  274 
tree,  1715 
Toothwort,  513 
Topinambour,  808 
Tor  gum,  6 
Tormentil,  774 
Tormentilla  erecta,  774 
Toronjil,  1031 
Torreya  californica,  1066 
Myristica,  1066 
Tortelle,  513 

Torula  cereviske,  148,  437 
To-sai-shin,  297 
Torviso,  1039 
Touchwood,  759 
Toulema,  204 
Tournesol,  924 
Tous-les-mois,  204 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


1861 


Toute-epice,  1247 
Toxicodendron,  1382 
Toxiresin,  583 

Tragacanth,  Tragacantha,  1642 
Traganth,  1642  4 
Tragantli-glycerit,  785 
Traganthiu,  1643 
Traganthschleim,  1063 
Triiukchen,  1042 
Traubenkernol,  1130 
Traubenkraut,  178,  447 
Traumaticin,  967 
Treacle,  1395,  1597 
Trebol  acuatico,  1035 
oloroso,  1030 
Tree  of  heaven,  146 
Trefle  d’eau,  1035 
de  marais,  1035 
Trefoil,  shrubby,  1321 
Trehala,  Trehalose,  1019 
Trementina  de  Canada,  1584 
de  Venecia,  1586 
commune,  1584 
Tribromhydrin,  160 
Tribromomethane,  352 
Tribromophenol,  352 
Trichilia,  317 
emetica,  1162 

Trichloraldehyde-hydrate,  452 
Trichloressigsaure,  20 
Triiodometacresol,  879 
Triiodomethane,  877 
Trigonella  Fcenum  graecum,  753 
Trillium,  1644 
erectum,  1644 
spec.,  1644 

Trimethylamine,  447,  546,  618, 
1645 

hydrochloride,  1645 
Trimethylcarbinol,  201 
Trimethylethylene,  200 
Trinitrocarbolsaure,  86 
Trinitrophenol,  86 
Trional,  1536 
Triolein,  1094,  1140 
Trioste,  1646 

Triosteum  angustifolium,  1646 
perfoliatum,  1646 
Trioxyacetophenone,  1335 
Tripalmitin,  779 
Triphenyl-rosaniline,  212 
Tripoli  senna,  1440 
Trisodic  arsenate,  1452 
Tristearin,  1094 
Trisulfuro  di  antimonio,  223 
Triticin,  1647 
Triticum,  1647 
aestivum,  715 
compositum,  durum,  713 
hybernum,  715 
monococcum,  713 
repens,  1647 
sativum,  713 
Spelta,  713 
turgidum,  713 
vulgare,  713 

Trituratio  elaterini,  1648 
Triturationes,  1648 
Trixis  Pipitzahoac,  1379 
Troches,  1649 
ammonium  chloride,  1651 
bismuth,  1651 
catechu,  1651 
chalk,  1651 
cubeb,  1652 
ginger,  1656 

glycyrrhiza  and  opium,  1652 
ipecac,  1653 
iron,  1652 
reduced,  1652 
krameria,  1653 


! Troches — 

liquorice  and  opium,  1652 
morphia,  1654 
morphine  and  ipecac,  1654 
opium,  1652 
peppermint,  1654 
potassium  chlorate,  1654 
santonin,  1655 
sodium  bicarbonate,  1655 
Spitta’s,  1652 
tannic  acid,  1650 
Wistar’s,  1653 
Trochisci,  1649 
acidi  benzoici,  1650 
tannici,  1650 
alhandal,  525 
ammonii  chloridi,  1651 
bechici  nigri,  1653 
bismuthi,  1651 
catechu,  1651 
cretae,  1651 
cubebae,  1652 
ferri,  1652 
redacti,  1652 
glycyrrhizae  et  opii,  1652 
ipecacuanhae,  1653 
krameriae,  1653 
menthae  piperitae,  1654 
morphinae,  1654 

et  ipecacuanha,  1654 
natri  bicarbonici,  1655 
opii,  1652 

potassii  chloratis,  1654 
santonini,  1655 
sodii  bicarbonatis,  1655 
sulphuris,  1655 
zingiberis,  1656 
Trochisques,  1650 
Trona,  1462 
Tropceolum  majus,  514 
minus,  514 
Tropfen,  1042 
T ruffe,  Truflfe  de  cerf,  1000 
Triiffel,  1000 
Trumpet  creeper,  423 
leaf,  1421 

Truxilcocaine,  503 
Truxilline,  503 
Truxillo  coca-leaves,  503 
Trypeta  arnicivora,  290 
Trypsin,  1189 
Tshuking,  5 
j Tsuga  canadensis,  930 
Tub  camphor,  387 
Tuber  cibarium,  1000 
colchici,  516 
Tubera  aconiti,  117 
jalapae,  901 
salep,  1398 
Tuckahoe,  1000 
Tulip  tree,  1012 
Tulipier,  1012 
Tulipiferin,  1012 
Tully’s  powder,  1332 
Tulpenbaum,  1012 
Tumenol,  Tumenolum,  861 
Tuno  gum,  802 
Tupelo  gum,  927 
tree  92T 

Turbith  mineral,  838 
vegetal,  903 
j Turic  gum,  6 
! Turiones  asparagi,  300 
pini,  1586 
Turkey  corn,  544 
figs,  752 
gum,  6 
myrrh,  1068 
pea,  544,  1583 
Turlington’s  balsam,  1609 
Turmeric,  568 


Turmeric,  Indian,  849 
Turmerol,  569 
Turnbull’s  blue,  730 
Turnera  aphrodisiaca,  574 
diffusa,  574 
mierophylla,  574 
ulmifolia,  575 
Turner’s  cerate,  1673 
Turpentine,  1584 
Canada,  1584,  1585 
Chian,  1586 
common,  1585 
Turpenyl,  1157 
Turpeth  mineral,  838 
root,  903 
Turpethin,  903 
Turpethum  minerale,  838 
Turtlehead,  446 
Tussilage,  1656 
Tussilago  Farfara,  1656 
una  del  caballo,  1656 
Tutia,  Tutty,  1726 
Twinleaf,  904 
Tylophora  asthmatica,  895 
Tylophorine,  896 
Tyrosine,  913 

Tyson’s  antimonial  powder,  1327 

ULMAIRE,  1494 
Ulexine,  1433 
Ulmenrinde,  1657 
Ulmenrinden-Decoct,  580 
Ulmenrindenschleim,  1063 
Ulmus,  1657 
species,  1657 
Ultramarine,  176 
Ultraquinine,  489 
Umbelliferon,  762,  1040 
Umbellularia  californica,  1427 
Umbilicus  pendulinus,  546 
Umbrella  tree,  1011 
Umsclilage,  423 
Una  de  gato,  1384 
Uncaria  acida,  427 
Gambier,  427 
Unguenta,  1658 
Unguentum,  1659 
acidi  borici,  1659 
carbolici,  1659 
salicylici,  1659 
tannici,  1659 
aconitinae,  1660 
acre,  1661 
ad  decubitum,  1264 
ad  fonticulos,  1661 
adipis,  1659 
album  simplex,  1670 
althaeae,  570 
antimonii,  1660 
tartarati,  1660 
aquae  rosae,  1660 
Arcaei,  1663 
atropime,  1661 
basilicum,  436 
belladonnae,  1661 
benzoini,  124 
calami  nae,  1673 
calomelanos,  1668 
camphoratum,  433 
cantharidis,  1661 
cantharidum,  1661 
cereum,  433 
cerussae,  1670 

camphoratum,  1670 
cetacei,  1662 
chrysarobini,  1662 
citrinum,  1666 
conii,  1659 
creosoti,  1662 
de  nihilo  albo,  1672 
diachylon,  1663 


1862 


GENERAL  INDEX . 


Unguentum — 
digestivum  simplex,  1672 
elemi,  1663 
emolliens,  1660 
eucalypti,  1659 
fiavum,  570 
gallae,  1663 
cum  opio,  1663 
glyceriui,  783 

plumbi  subacetatis,  435,  1659 
hamamelidis,  1659 
hydrargyri,  1664 
album,  1665 
ammoniati,  1665 
cinereum,  1664 
citrinum,  1666 
compositum,  1666 
iodidi  rubri,  1666 
nitratis,  1666 
dilutum,  1667 
oxidi  flavi,  1667 
rubri,  1667 
rubrum,  1667 
subchloridi,  1668 
iodi,  1668 
iodinii,  1668 

compositum,  1669 
iodoformi,  1669 
irritans,  1661 
kalii  iodati,  1671 
lenieus,  1660 
linarise,  938 
maj  orange,  1184 
mercuriale,  1664 
mezerei,  1040 

narcotico-balsamicum  Hell- 
mundi,  1670 
neapolitanicum,  1664 
nervinum,  1149 
nitricum,  1667 
opkthalmicum,  1668 
compositum,  1668 
St.  Yves,  1668 
opiatum,  692 
oxygenatum,  1667 
paraffini,  paraffinum,  1208 
picis  liquidae,  1669 
betulse,  1669 
compositum,  1669 
plumbi,  435 
acetatis,  1670 
carbonatis,  1670 
Hebrse,  1663 
iodidi,  1670 
tannici,  1264 
populeum,  125 
populi,  125 

potassae  sulphuratse,  1670 
potassii  iodidi,  1671 
prsecipitatum  rubrum,  1667 
resin se,  436 

rosmarini  compositum,  1149 
rusci,  1669 
sabinse,  436 
simplex,  1659 
staphisagriae,  1659 
stibiatum,  1660 
stibio-kali  tartarici,  1660 
stramonii,  1671 
sulfuratum,  1671 
compositum,  1672 
simplex,  1671 
sulpliuris,  1671 
alkalinum,  1671 
compositum,  1672 
iodidi,  1672 
tabaci,  1575 
tartari  stibiati,  1660 
terebinthinse,  1672 
tetrapharmacum,  436 
veratriae,  veratrinae,  1672 


Unguentum — 
zinci,  1672 
de  nihilo  albo,  1672 
oleati,  1673 
oxidi,  1672 

Unicorn-root,  false,  442 
Universalpflaster,  607 
Unterhefe,  437 
Upas  antiar,  216 
tieute,  1086 
Ural,  455,  499,  1675 
Uralium,  455.  459 
Uragoga  Ipecacuanha,  893 
Urarema,  474 
Urari,  Urati,  566 
Urceola  elastica,  esculenta,  593 
Urea,  Uree,  657,  1673 
hydrochlorate,  1673 
nitrate,  1673 
oxalate,  1673 
Uredo  Maydis,  1718 
Urethane,  1674 
Urethanum,  1674 
Urginea  maritima,  1429 
Scilla,  1429 

Urostigma  elastica,  593 
Vogel ii,  593 
Urson,  767 
Urtica  spec.,  575 
Ussacu,  819 
Ustilago  Maydis,  1718 
Uva  passa,  1677 
ursi,  1678 
Uvse,  1677 
corinthiacae,  1678 
malacenses,  1678 

VACCINIUM  uliginosum,  1679 
Vitis-idsea,  1679 
Valdivin,  1339 
Valencia  raisins,  1678 
Valentinite,  221 
Valeral,  999 
Valeras  zincicus,  1732 
Valerate  de  zinc,  1732 
Valerene,  200,  388 
Valerian,  1681 
root,  1681 
Valeriana,  1681 
celtica,  1681 
Jatamansi,  1682 
officinalis,  1681 
Phu,  1682 

Valerianas  ammonicus,  192 
bismuthicus,  345 
natricus,  1488 
sodicus,  1488 
zincicus,  1732 

Valerianate  d’ammoniaque,  192 
de  bismuth,  345 
de  fer,  743 
de  quinine,  1361 
de  soud  e,  1488 
de  zinc,  1732 

Valerianate  de  amoniaco,  192 
Valeriane,  1166,  1681 
americaine,  573 
Valeriansaure,  113 
Valerol,  999 
Valletta  mass,  1021 
Vallonea,  Valonia,  765 
Vanilla,  1683 
plant,  936 
planifolia,  1683 
saccharata,  1684 
spec.,  1684 
Vanille,  1683 
Vanilletinktur,  1640 
Vanillin,  547,  1684 
Vapor  acidi  hydrocyanici,  1685 
chlori,  1685 


Vapor — 
coninge,  1685 
creosoti,  1685 
iodi,  1685 

olei  pini  sylvestris,  1686 
Vapores,  1685 
Vara  de  oro,  1489 
Varec,  1462 

Varech  vesiculeux,  757 
Varnish,  923 
Vaseline,  1193 
Vedegembre  bianco,  1690 
verdo,  1692 
Vegetable  casein,  713 
fibrin,  713 
gold,  1379 

protein  compounds,  713 
silk,  299 
sulphur,  1001 
Veilchen,  1711 
Veilchenwurzel,  900 
Velanede,  765 
Velar,  513 
Vellarin,  851 
Velvet  leaf,  168 
Venice  turpentine,  1586 
Venushaar,  127 
Vera  Cruz  sarsaparilla,  1423 
Veratralbine,  1690 
Veratramarin,  1691 
Veratre  blanc,  1690 
vert,  1692 
Veratrina,  1686 
Veratrine  oleate,  1099 
Veratrinsalbe,  1672 
Veratrinum,  1686 
ole'icum,  1099 
Veratroidine,  1691,  1692 
Veratrum  album,  1690 
californicum,  1690 
Lobelianum,  1690 
luteum,  442 
officinale,  1390 
viride,  1692 

Verbascum  species,  1694 
Verbesina  sativa,  1130 
Verdet  crystallise,  560 
Verdigris,  561 
crystallized,  560 
Verdiinnte  Essigsaure,  20 
Phosphorsaure,  84 
Salzsaure,  61 
Salpetersalzsaure,  77 
Salpetersaure.  73 
Schwefelsaure,  98 
Unterphosphorige  Saure,  68 
Verge  d’or,  1489 
Verine,  1688 
Vermicelli,  1642 
Vermilion,  839 
American,  1288 
Vernis  des  Japon,  146 
Veronica  americana,  1695 
Beccabunga,  1695 
officinalis,  1695 
virginica,  934 

Veronique  de  Virginie,  934 
male,  1695 

Verre  soluble,  liquide,  985 
Verrucaria  albissima,  417 
Vert-de-gris,  561 
Vervain’s  balsam,  1609 
Vesicating  cloth,  435 
Vesicatoire  camphree,  435 
Vesse-loup,  1000 
Viburnum  Lantana,  1696 
obovatum,  1696 
Opulus,  1695 
prun  i folium,  1696 
Viburnumextrakt,  711 
Vichy  spring,  266,  269 


Vicia  Faba,  713 
Vienna  caustic,  1272 
draught,  874 
yeast,  437 
Vierrauberessig,  14 
Vif-argent,  840 
Vigne  vierge,  193 
Vin  aloetique,  1700 
antimoinee,  1703 
aromatique,  1704 
blanc,  1697 
camphre,  388 
chalybe,  1705,  1706 
de  bulbe  de  colcbique,  1704 
de  Grenache,  1699 
d’ ipecacuanha,  1706 
de  liqueur,  1698 
de  Lunel,  1699 
d’Oporto,  1708 

de  quinquina  ferrugiueux,  1705 
de  seigle  ergote,  1705 
de  semences  de  colchique,  1704 
de  Xeres,  1699 
emetique,  1703 
ferrugineux,  1706 
stibie,  1703 
Vina  medicata,  1697 
Vinagre,  12 
Vinaigre,  12 
anglais,  20 
antiseptique,  14 
aromatique,  14 
blanc,  13 
cantharide,  15 
de  bois,  18 
de  plorub,  973 
desaturne,  973 
d’ipecacuanha,  15 
des  quatre  voleurs,  14 
distille,  13 
framboise,  1569 
glacial,  19 
opium,  15 
scille,  16 

Vincetoxicum  officinale,  299 
Vincetoxin,  299 
Vinegar,  12 
antiseptic,  14 
araroba,  475 
aromatic,  14 
common,  13 
distilled,  13 
of  cantharides,  15 
of  ipecacuanha,  15 
of  opium,  15 
of  raspberry,  1569 
of  squill,  16 
pyroligneous,  18 
purified,  18 
wood,  18 
Vinetine,  337 
Vinettier,  336 
Vino  bianco,  1697 
santo,  1699 
tinto,  1708 

Vins  medicinaux,  1697 
Vinum  album,  1697 
fortius,  1697 
aloes,  1703 
aloeticum,  1703 
antimoniale,  1703 
antimonii,  1703 
aromaticum,  1704 
aurantii,  1704 
camphoratum,  388 
chalybeatum,  1705,  1706 
chin®,  1707 
ferratum,  1705 
colchici,  1704 
radicis,  1704 
seminis,  1704 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


Vinum — 
condurango,  1697 
de  cinchona,  1707 
martiatum,  1705 
de  colchico,  1704 
emeticum,  1703 
ergot*,  1705 
ferri,  1705 
amarum,  1705 
citratis,  1706 

fraxini  american®,  757,  1697 
generosum  album,  1697 
ipecacuanh*.  1706 
martiatum,  1705 
opii,  1707 
compositum,  1707 
pepsini,  1205 
pepticum,  1205 
picis,1697 
Portense,  1708 
quebracho,  303 
quinin®,  1707 
rhei,  1707 
rub  rum,  1708 
stibiatum,  1703 
tabaci,  1575 
xerense,  xericum,  1699 
Viola  cucullata,  1711 
odorata,  1711 
pedata,  1711 
tricolor,  1710 
Violette  odorante,  1711 
Violin,  1711 
Viper’s  bugloss,  350 
Viperine,  350 
Virginia  creeper,  193 
lungwort,  350 
snake-root,  1442 
thyme,  859 

Virginische  Ceder,  1392 
Virginischer  Wolfsfuss,  1002 
Virgin’s  bower,  501 
milk,  1608 
Viride  ®ris,  560 
Viridine,  692 
Virola  sebifera,  1138 
tallow,  1138 
Viscum  album,  1712 
flavescens,  1712 
quernum,  1712 
Vitellin,  1714 
Vitellus  ovi,  1713 
Vitis  aestivalis,  1697 
cordifolia,  1697 
Labrusca,  1677,  1697 
hederacea,  193 
quinquefolia,  193 
riparia,  1697 
vinifera,  1677, 1697 
vulpina,  1697 
Vitriol  blanc,  1729 
bleu,  561 
de  Chypre,  562 
de  Salzbourg,  562 
vert,  740 
Vitriolol,  97 
Vitriolum  album,  1729 
martis  purum,  740 
Vitrium  solubile,  985 
Vitrum  antimonii,  222 
Viverra  Civetta,  1060 
Zibetha,  1060 
Vivianite,  738 
| Vogelbeere,  1491 
| Vogelleim,  1712 
Volatile  liniment,  939 
oils,  1089 
salt,  182 

Volumetric  solutions  U.  S.,  1745 
Vulcanized  caoutchouc,  594 
Vulvaire,  447 


1863 


WACHHOLDERBEEREN,  906 
Wachliolderbeeren-Aufguss, 
907 

Wachholderspiritus,  1505 
Wachs,  430 
Wachsbaum,  1064 
Wachsgagel,  1064 
Wachssalbe,  432,  1659 
Wachsschwamm,  1510 
Wade’s  balsam,  1609 
Waferash,  1321 
Wafer  capsules,  1326 
Wah oo,  629,  1657 
Waifa,  1490 
Wakarimo,  566 
Wakerobin,  293,  1644 
Waldfarnwurzel,  301 
Waldmalve,  168 
Waldmangold,  448 
Waldmeister,  763 
Waldrebe,  501 
Waldstroh,  763 
Waldwollol,  1586 
Walfischthran,  1134 
Wall  cress,  514 
pellitory,  1198 
Wallnussrinde,  904 
Walnut,  905 
Walonen,  765 
Walrat,  439 
Cerat,  435 
Zucker,  440 
Walratsalbe,  1662 
Waltheria  glomerata,  1024 
Warburg’s  tincture,  1352 
Warnera  canadensis,  849 
Warner’s  gout  cordial,  1653 
Wars,  Warras,  910 
Wart-cress,  514 
Waschungen,  998 
Wash  blue,  721 
Washes,  998 
Washing  soda,  1463 
Wflsspr  9*^7 

Wasser’  destillirte,  246 
Wasserandorn,  1002 
Wasserbenediktenwurzel,  776 
Wasserblei,  408 
Wasserdost,  631 
Wasserfenchel,  1213 
Wasserglas,  985 
Wasserhanf,  339 
Wasserholder,  1695 
Wasserlilie,  1087 
Wassernabel,  851 
Wasserscliierling,  477 
Wasserstoff  hyperoxyd,  261 
Losung,  261 
Wasser  wegerich,  158 
Water,  237 
ammonia,  248,  250 
stronger,  248,  250 
anise,  254 
barley,  578 
bitter-almond,  253 
camphor,  255 
caraway,  255 
carbolized,  39,  44 
carbonic  acid,  46 
cherry-laurel,  263 
chlorine,  256 
chloroform,  258 
cinnamon,  259 
creosote,  259 
dill,  254 
distilled,  260 
elder-flower,  265 
fennel,  260 
hamamelis,  261 
germander,  1589 
lithia,  970 


1864 


Water — 

linden-flower,  1602 
mineral,  46 
nitrous  oxide,  1083 
of  life,  1503 
opium,  1175 
orange-flower,  254,  255 
double,  254 
stronger,  254 
triple,  254 
oxygenated,  261 
oxygenous  aerated,  1083 
peppermint,  264 
pimento,  264 
phenol,  39 
raspberry,  1569 
rose,  265 
stronger,  265 
triple,  265 
sage,  1406 
sedative,  265 
soda,  46,  985 
spearmint,  264 
strawberry,  1569 
tar,  264,  1255 
witchhazel,  261 
Water-avens,  776 
Water-cress,  513 
Water-cup,  1420 
Water-drop  wort,  477 
Water-flag,  899 
Water-germander,  1589 
Water-hemlock,  477 
five-leaved,  1213 
spotted,  477 
Water-korehound,  1002 
Water-kuotweed,  775 
Water-lily,  1087 
sweet-scented,  1087 
Watermelon,  559 
Water-parsnip,  477 
Water- penny  wort,  851 
Water-pepper,  775 
Water-plantain,  158 
Water-shamrock,  1035 
Water-star  wort,  377 
Waters,  acidulous  saline,  267 
alkaline,  266 
chalybeate,  268 
distilled,  246 
medicated,  246 
concentrated,  247 
mineral,  265,  1192 
artificial,  269 
saline,  266 
sulphuretted,  265 
Wattle-bark,  427 
Wattle  gum,  7 
Wau,  403 

Wax,  bleaching,  430 
earth,  431,  1192 
fossil,  1192 
mineral,  1192 
myrtle,  1064 
paper,  443 
vegetable,  431 
white,  430 
yellow,  430 
Waxes,  1092 
Weakfish,  860 
Weather-glass,  1318 
Wegerieh,  1256 
Weidenrinde,  1401 
Weiderich,  1003 
Weihnachtswurzel,  808 
Weihrauch,  1166 
Weine,  1697 
Weingeist,  147 
Weinol,  1103 
Weinsaure,  110 
Weinstein,  1280 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


Weinsteinsaure,  110 
Weisse  Magnesia,  1006 
Nieswiirz,  1690 
* Weisser  Andorn,  1020 
Arsenik,  22 
Canel,  392 
Gansefuss,  447 
Germer,  1690 
Senf,  1444 
Sirup,  1553 
Vitriol,  1729 
Zimmt,  392 

Weisses  Fischbein,  553 
Weisstanne,  1586 
Weisswein,  1697 
Weisswurzel,  535 
Weizenmehl,  713 
Weld,  403 

Welter ’sches  Bitter,  86 
Wermuth,  3 
Western  mugwort,  4 
West  Indian  kino,  912 
molasses,  1597 
Wheat  starch,  202 
Wheaten  flour,  713 
Whey,  917 
wine,  1697 
Whiptongue,  763 
Whiskey,  Whisky,  148,  1503 
White  antimony,  221 
arsenic,  22 
ash,  756 
bay,  1011 
brandy,  1508 
cedar,  1598 
contrayerva,  1321 
dextrin,  205 
elm,  1657 
flag,  900 
galls,  765 
ginger,  1736 
hellebore,  1690 
ipecac,  632 
lead,  1262 
ore,  1266 
lettuce,  1317 
maidenhair,  128 
marble,  1019 
mustard,  1444 
negro  yam,  587 
oak  bark,  1340 
of  egg,  147,  1713 
pepper,  1248 
pereira,  1198 
permanent,  324 
plantain,  1256 
poplar,  1012 
precipitate,  846 
rosin,  1365 
sago,  205 
senega,  1438 
turpentine,  1585 
veratrum,  1.690 
vitriol,  1729 
wax,  430 
wine,  1697 
stronger,  1697 
varieties,  1699 
wood,  392,  1012,  1601 
Whitecap,  1493 
Whitehall  spring,  268 
Whiting,  552,  1133 
Wiener  Aetzpulver,  1272 
Trank,  874 

Wiesbaden  spring,  268 
Wiesenknoterich,  775 
Wiesenkresse,  513 
Wiesensafran,  516 
Wigandia  californica,  623 
Wigger’s  ergotin,  617 
Wild  allspice,  932 


I Wild- 

basil,  859,  1046 
bergamot,  1046 
chamomile,  546 
cherry  bark,  1319 
cinnamon,  392,  1137 
clove,  1137 
cotton,  298 
cucumber,  592 
ginger,  297 
hipp,  632 
indigo,  322 
ipecac,  632 
jalap,  903 

liquorice,  1,  275,  763 
madder,  763 
marjoram,  1183 
nutmeg,  1066 
pepper-grass,  514 
potato,  903 
radish,  1447 
rosemary,  907 
sarsaparilla,  275 
senna,  1440 
thyme,  859 
yam,  587 
Wild  bad,  269 
Wilder  Majoran,  1183 
Senf,  513 
Wein,  193 

Wildkirschenrinde,  1319 
Wildkirschenrinden  Extrakt,  696 
Wildkirschenrindensirup,  1566 
Wildkirschenthee,  872 
Williamson’s  blue,  729 
Willow-bark,  1401,  1402 
Willow-herb,  purple,  1003 
Willughbeia  edulis,  593 
Wind-flower,  1323 
Windsor  bean,  713 
Wine,  aloes,  1703 
antimonial,  1703 
antimony,  1703 
aromatic,  1704 
boldo,  348 
camphor,  388,  390 
citrate  of  iron,  1706 
colchicum-root,  1704 
seed,  1704 
condurango,  1697 
ergot,  1705 
ferric  citrate,  1706 
ipecac,  1706 
iron,  1705 
bitter,  1705 
opium,  1707 
orange,  1704 
pepsin,  1205 
port,  1708 
quinine,  1707 
rhubarb,  1707 
sherry,  1699 
tar,  1697 
Teneriffe,  1699 
tobacco,  1575 
vinegar,  12,  13 
whey,  1697 
white,  1700 
ash,  1697 
Wines,  1697 
Bordeaux,  1708 
Burgundy,  1699 
medicated,  1697 
red,  1708 
Rhenish,  1699 
white,  1691 

Wintera  aromatica,  1714 
Winterania  Canella,  392 
Winterberry,  1318 
Winter-cherry,  159 
Winter-clover,  1045 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


1865 


Winter-cress,  513 
Wiutergreen,  447,  7(57 
Wintergreenol,  1123 
kiinstliches,  1039 
Winterkresse,  513 
Winterrose,  808 
Winter  savory,  859 
Winter’s  bark,  393,  1714 
Zimmt,  1714 
Wismuth,  343 
Wismuthammoncitrat,  339,  951 
Wismuth  - Ammonium,  citronen- 
saures,  339 
Wismuthcitrat,  339 
Wismuthnitrat,  344 
basisches,  342 
Wismuthoxychlorid,  344 
Wismuthoxyd,  340 
citronensaures,  339 
kohlensaures,  341 
basisches,  341 
salpetersaures,  342 
Wismuthpastillen,  1651 
Wismuthsubcarbonat,  341 
Wismuthsubnitrat,  342 
Wismuthtannat,  345 
Wismuthvalerianat,  345 
Wistar’s  lozenges,  1653 
Witch-hazel,  804 
Witliania  coagulans,  159 
Witherite,  323 
Woad,  865 
Wohlverleih,  289 
Extrakt,  650 
Wolfram,  1511 
Wolfsbane,  117 
Wolfsbohne,  998 
Wolfsfuss,  1002 
Wolfskirsche,  327 
Wolfsmilch,  568,  632 
Wolfstrapp,  933 
Wolfswurz,  122 
Wollfett,  126 
Wollkraut,  1694 
Wood  anemone,  1323 
apple,  326 
betony,  934 
charcoal,  407,  408 
naphtha,  157 
oil,  538 
sage,  1589 
sorrel,  1185 
tea,  796 
vinegar,  18 

Woody-nightshade,  590 
Wool-fat,  hydrous,  126 
Woorara,  566 
Worm-grass,  1492 
Wormwood,  3 
Wort,  1013 

Wourali,  Wourari,  566 
Wrightia  antidysenterica,  167 
tinctoria,  865' 

Wrightine,  167 

Wundbalsam,  Persischer,  1609 
Wundschwamm,  759 
Wurmfarnextrakt,  1100 
Wurmfarnol,  1100 
Wurmfarnwurzel,  301 
Wurmkraut,  1578 
Wurmrinde,  208 
Wurmsamen,  1412 
Wurmsamenol,  1118 
Wurmzucker,  1022 
Wurrus,  910 

XANTHIUM  canadense,  929 
spinosum,  929 
strumarium,  929 
Xanthopicrit,  336,  1716 
Xanthopuccine,  849 


I Xanthorkamnin,  1374 
I Xanthorrkiza,  1715 
i Xanthostrumarin,  929 
apiifolia,  1715 
Xanthoxylin,  1716 
Xanthoxylum,  1715 
alatum,  1716 
americanum,  1715 
caribseum,  1716 
clava  Herculis,  336,  1715 
elegans,  1230 
floridanum,  1716 
fraxineum,  1715 
piperitum,  1716 
Pterota,  1716 
I Xeres  wines,  1699 
Xylene,  332,  1255,  1717 
Xylenum,  1716 
Xyloidin,  203,  1338 
Xylol,  1717 

VT  AGH,  1532 
I Yaguarundi,  1230 
Yam  spec.,  587 
Yantonica,  1412 
Yarrow,  16 
Yaupon,  Youpon,  862 
Yeast,  436 
artificial,  437 
dry,  437 
patent,  437 
poultice,  423 
Vienna,  437 
Yeble,  1407 
Yelk  of  egg,  1714 
Yellow  bedstraw,  763 
cinchona,  479 
dock,  1388 
guaiac,  797 
jasmine,  769 
litharge,  1265 
mustard,  1444 
orpiment,  293 
pareira,  1197 
parilla,  1032 
pond-lily,  1088 
poplar,  1012 
puccoon,  849 
root,  849,  1715 
scurvy-grass,  513 
wash,  998 

Yerba  buena,  859,  1033 
piperita,  1032 
de  Santa  Maria,  1198 
del  cancer,  1003 
mansa,  1427 
mate,  862 
mora,  328 

Yeux  d’ecrevisses,  553 
Yew,  1582 
Yezgo,  1407 

| Yodhidrato  de  amoniaco,  188 
Yoloxochitl,  1012 
Ysop,  858 

yAHNWEHHOLZ,  1715 
tA  Zahnwebrindenextrakt,  711 
Zahnwurz,  513 
Zanaloin,  164 
Zannahoria,  414 
Zanzibar  aloes,  163 
Zapfenkorn,  615 
Zapota  borracho,  1047 
negro,  588 
prieto,  588  ♦ 

Zarzamora,  1386,  1388 
Zarzaparille,  1421 
Zauberhasel,  804 
Zaun  rube,  353 
Zaunriibentinktur,  1609 
Zea,  1717 


Zea  Mays,  201,  1394,  1717 
Zedoaire,  1719 
Zedoaria,  Zedoary,  1719 
Zedrachrinde,  316 
Zeitlosen-Extrakt,  662 
Zeitlosenknollen,  516 
Extrakt,  663 
Zeitlosensamen,  516 
Extrakt,  663 
Zeitlosentinktur,  1616 
Zeitlosenwein,  1704 
Zeltchen,  1649 
Zengibre,  1735 
Zeniglo,  447 
Zerechtit,  5 
Zerumbet-root,  1737 
Zestes  de  citron,  937 
de  limon,  937 
d’ orange  amere,  310 
douces,  312 
Zeylonzimmt,  498 
Zibeben,  1677 
Zibeth,  Zibethum,  1060 
Zietrisikite,  1193 
Zimmt,  498 
gemeiner,  498 
kassie,  498 
wasser,  259 
weisser,  392 
Zimmtol,  1118 
Zimmtspiritus,  1503 
Zimmttinktur,  1615 
Zimmtwasser,  259 
Zinc,  1733 
acetate,  1719 

and  mercury  double  cyanide, 
832 

bromide,  1721 

carbonate,  precipitated,  1721 
chloride,  1722 
pencils,  1723 
cyanide,  1734 
ferrocyanide,  1734 
iodide,  1725 
lactate,  1734 
oleate,  1099 
oxide,  1726 
phosphide,  1728 
phosphuret,  1728 
salicylate,  1734 
sulphate,  1729 
sulphocarbolate,  1486, 1734 
valerianate,  1732 
Zinci  acetas,  1719 
bromidum,  1721 
carbonas,  1721 
prsecipitata,  1721 
chloridum,  1722 
cyanidum,  1734 
et  potassii  cyanidum,  1734 
ferrocyanidum,  1734 
iodidum,  1725 
lactas,  1734 
oxidum,  1726 
venale,  1726 
phosphidum,  1728 
salicylas,  1734 
sulphas,  1729 
sulphocarbolas,  1734 
valerian  as,  1732 
Zincum,  1733 
aceticum,  1719 
bromatum,  1721 
carbonicum,  1721 
chloratum,  1722 
ferrocyanatum,  1734 
granulatum,  1734 
lacticum,  1734 
oleicum,  1099 
oxydatum,  1726 
crudum,  1726 


1866 


Zincum — 

sulfocarbolicum,  1734 
sulfoplienylicum,  1734 
sulfuricum,  1729 
valerianicum,  1732 
Zinc-white,  1726 
Zingiber,  1735 
Cassumunar,  1737 
officinale,  1735 
Zerumbet,  1737 
Zingiberin,  1103 
Zink,  1733 
Zinkacetat,  1719 
Zinkbromid,  1721 
Zinkcarbonat,  1721 


GENERAL  INDEX. 


Zinkchlorid,  1722 
Zinkjodid,  1725 
Zinkoleat,  1099 
Zinkoxyd,  1726 
baldriansaures,  1732 
essigsaures,  1719 
kohlensaures,  1721 
schwefelsaures,  1729 
Zinksalbe,  1672 
Zinksulfat,  1729 
Zinkvalerianat,  1732 
Zinn,  1511 
Zinnober,  839 
Zittmann’s  decoction,  579 
Zittwersamen,  1412 


Zittwerwurzel,  1719 
Ziziphora  pulegioides,  806 
Zizyphus  Jujuba,  906 
lotus,  905 
vulgaris,  905 
Zucker,  1394 
Zuckerplatzchen,  1650 
Zuckerrose,  1385 
Zugpflaster,  602 
Zugsalbe,  436 
Zumaque,  1380,  1382 
Zunder,  759 
Zwetsche,  1319 
Zwiebel,  160 


INDEX  OF  THERAPEUTICS 


Abortion,  cantbaris,  400 

opium,  1181 
potassii  chloras,  1293 
viburnum,  1696 
Abrasion,  alcohol,  155 
arnica,  291 
cerat.  cetacei,  435 
collodium  flexile,  522 
creta  prseparata,  554 
crocus,  556 
cucumis,  559 
cynoglossum,  350 
emplast.  ichthyocollae,  (503 
emplast.  plumbi,  607 
emplast.  saponis,  608 
gutta-percha,  802 
ichthyocolla,  860 
potassii  nitras,  1309 
sevum,  1444 
tinct.  arnicae  flor.,  1606 
ung.  aquae  rosae,  1661 
ung.  plumbi  acet.,  1670 
ung.  zinci  oxidi,  1673 
vitellus  ovi,  1714 
zinci  carb.  praecip.,  1722 
Abscess,  acetum,  14 
alcohol,  155 
allium,  160 
ammonii  chlorid.,  187 
anthemis,  216 

antimon.  et  potass,  tart.,  220 
aqua,  243 

aq.  bydrogenii  diox.,  263 
argenti  nitras,  283 
cantbaris,  400 
carbonei  bisulphid.,  410 
cataplasma  lini,  424 
cyclamen,  572 
ficus,  752 

foenum  graecum,  754 
glycerina,  782 
humulus,  819 
iodoform.,  881,  884 
iodum,  892 
lac,  921 

liq.  ammonii  acet.,  949 
liq.  plumbi  subacetatis,  974 
moxa,  1061 
mucilago  ulmi,  1063 
ol.  morrhuae,  1135 
parietaria,  1198 
potassa,  1272 
potassii  chloras,  1294 
quininae  sulphas,  1360 
saururus,  1427 
ung.  iodi,  1669 
zinci  chloridum,  1721 
Mammary,  ergota*,  621 
iodum,  892 
ol.  ricini,  1146 
petroselinum,  1212 
Acidity.  V.  Dyspepsia. 

Acne,  acid,  carbolic.,  42 
ammonii  chlorid.,  187 
collodium  flexile,  522 


Acne — 

cupri  sulphas,  564 
hydrarg.  cblor.  corros.,  824 
iodum,  891 

liquor  hydrargyri  nitratis,969 
liquor  potassae,  978 
liquor  potassii  arsenitis,  980 
ol.  cajuputi,  1115 
potassa,  1272 
potassa  sulphurata,  1274 
sapo,  1418 
sulphur,  1542 
ung.  sulphur,  iod.,  1672 
After-pains,  aether,  135 
antipyrinum,  232 
aqua  camphorae,  255 
opium,  1181 
sodii  boras,  1459 

Albuminuria,  acid,  arsenios.,  30 
acid,  benzoic.,  33 
acid,  gallic.,  56 
acid,  tannic.,  109 
anilina,  214 
aqua,  245 

aquae  mineral es,  273 
Blatta  orientalis,  402 
ferrum,  747 
lac,  919 

liq.  ferri  et  ammoniae  acet., 
963 

mistura  ferri  comp.,  1043 
oxygenium,  1187 
pilocarpus,  1231 
quininae  sulphas,  1359 
strontium,  1520 
tr.  ferri  chloridi,  1619 
Alcoholic  intoxication,  am- 
monii carbonas,  184 
apomorphina,  236 
caffea,  364,  365 
saccliarum,  1397 
sodii  chlorid.,  1468 
strychnina,  1530 
Alcoholism,  zinci  oxid.,  1727 
Alopecia,  acid,  gallic.,  56 
aqua  ammoniae,  252 
cantbaris,  400 
cupri  sulphas,  564 
nymphaea,  1088 
ol.  ricini,  1147 
ol.  rosmarini,  1149 
pilocarpus,  1232 
sulphur,  1542 
tr.  cantharidis,  1611 
ung.  cantharidis,  1662 
Amaurosis,  amyl  nitris,  199 
aqua  ammoniae,  252 
ergota,  622 
phosphorus,  1220 
potassii  bromid.,  1286 
pulsatilla,  1323 
strychnina,  1530 
Amenokrhcea,  absinth,  vulg.,  5 
acliillea,  17 
acid,  arsenios.,  30 


Amenorrihea — 

acid,  carbonic.,  47 
aconitum,  121 
aletris,  150 
aloes,  165 

ammonii  chlorid.,  187 
anthemis,  216 
aqua,  245 

aqua  ammoniae,  252 
aquae  minerales,  272 
argenti  nitras,  284 
bidens,  339 
calendula,  377 
canella,  393 
cantharis,  400 
carlina  acaulis,  877 
carota,  415 
castoreum,  422 
cataria,  425 
cimicifuga,  479 
colocynthis,  525 
decoctum  aloes  compositum 
576 

enema  terehinthinae,  614 
equisetum,  615 
ergota,  621 

ferri  carbonas  saccharatus 
718 

ferri  subcarbonas,  736 
ferrum,  746 
fceniculum,  753 
galbanum,  762 
gaultheria,  767 
geum,  776 

gossypii  radicis  cortex,  790 

gratiola,  794 

guaiaci  resin  a,  798 

liedeoma,  806 

helleborus,  810 

hypericum,  858 

liyssopus,  859 

inula,  877 

leonurus,  934 

levisticums,  936 

menyanthes,  1036 

myrrha,  1069 

ol.  foeniculi,  1123 

ol.  hedeomae,  1127 

ol.  ricini,  1146 

ol.  rosmarini,  1149 

ol.  rutae,  1150 

ol.  sabinae,  1150 

ol.  sesami,  1154 

ol.  succini,  1156 

ol.  terebinthiua*,  1159 

parthenium,  1199 

petroselinum,  1213 

pil.  aloes  et  ferri,  1239 

pil.  aloes  et  myrrlne,  1241 

pil.  ferri  carb.‘  1242 

pil.  galbani  c.,  1244 

potassii  permangan.,  1312 

pulsatilla,  1323 

ricinus,  1146 

rubia,  1387 


1867 


1868 


INDEX  OF  THERAPEUTICS. 


AMENORRHIEA — 
ruta,  1389 
sabina,  1392 
senega,  1438 
sodii  boras,  1459 
solidago,  1490 
sulphur,  1543 
syr.  ferri  iodidi,  1560 
syr.  ferri  phosphat.,  1561 
tanacetum,  1579 
taxus,  1582 
terebinthina,  1587 
teucrium,  1589 
thuja,  1599 

tinct.  aloes  et  myrrhge,  1606 
tinct.  guaiaci,  1622 
tinct.  guaiaci  amnion.,  1622 
tinct.  sabinge,  1636 
triosteum,  1647 
urtica,  1677 
xanthoxylum,  1717 
zinci  phosphidum,  1729 
Anjemia,  acid,  arsenos.,  29 
aqua,  241 

aqua  hydrogen,  diox.,  263 
aquae  minerales,  271 
boldus,  348 

calcii  hypophosphis,  373 
ferri  carb.  saccharat.,  718 
ferri  citras,  722 
ferrum,  746 
kephir,  923 
koumys,  922 
massa  ferri  carb.,  1022 
mistura  ferri  arornat.,  1043 
mistura  ferri  comp.,  1043 
niccoli  sulph.,  1080 
pancreatinum,  1190 
phosphorus,  1219 
pil.  ferri  carb.,  1243 
pil.  ferri  iodidi,  1243 
sanguis,  1410 
sodii  hypophosphis,  1470 
syr.  ferri  iodidi,  1560 
vin.  album,  1702 
yin.  ferri,  1705 
vin.  ferri  amarum,  1706 
Anaphrodisia,  phosphorus,  1220 
zinci  phosphidum,  1729 
Aneurism,  antipyrina,  231 
barii  chlorid.,  325 
ergota,  622 
ferrum,  749 

liquor  ferri  chloridi,  960 
ol.  terebinthinge,  1158 
plumbi  acetas.  1261 
potassii  iodidum,  1305 
zinci  chloridum,  1724 

Varicose,  ferri  chlorid.,  721 
Angina  pectoris,  acid,  hydro- 
cyan. dil.,  67 
gethyl  brornid.,  142 
allyl  tribromid.,  160 
amyl  nitris,  197 
antipyrina,  231 
aq.  hydrogenii  dioxid.,  263. 
cactus,  357 
chloral,  457 
chloroformum,  469 
cocainge  hydrochlor.,  510 
morph  ina,  1055 
opium,  1179 
phosphorus,  1210 
potassii  brornid.,  1306 
potassii  iodid.,  1306 
pyridine,  1110 
sodii  nitris,  1476 
strophanthus,  1524 
urethane,  1675 

Pseudomemb.,  aqua  chlori,  258 
argenti  nitras,  282 


Angina  pseudomemb. — 
capsicum,  405 
cubeba,  558 
cupri  sulphas,  563 
V.  Diphtheria. 

Anus,  fissured,  acid,  tannic., 
110 

belladonna,  329 
bismuth i subnitras,  346 
cocaina,  507 
copaiba,  540 
glycerina,  781 
hydrastis,  850 
iodoformum,  882 
krameria,  913 
monesia,  1047 
stramonium,  1518 
tinct.  benzoini,  1608 
tinct.  catechu  c.,  1613 
ung.  stramonii,  1671 
ung.  zinci  oxidi,  1673 
zinci  oxidum,  1728 
Prolapsus  of,  acid,  tannic., 
110 

alumen,  172 
geranium,  775 

Spasm  of,  atropinge  sulph.,  308 
belladonna,  329 
bismuthi  subnitras,  346 
elastica,  594 
ung.  gallge,  1663 
Aphonia,  alumen,  172 
ammonii  chlorid.,  187 
argenti  nitras,  283 
iodum,  891 

quininge  sulphas,  1357 
sodii  boras,  1459 
zingiber,  1737 
Aphthae,  acid,  boric.,  36 
acid,  salicylic.,  94 
acid,  tannicum,  110 
arum,  294 
baptisia,  322 
bolus,  340 
coptis,  541 
cupri  acetas,  561 
ferri  salicylas,  740 
geranium,  775 
glycerit.  boratis,  781 
heuchera,  812 
infus.  rosge  acid.,  873 
liatris,  937 
liquor  calcis,  953 
magnesia,  1006 
mel,  1028 
mel  boracis,  1029 
mel  rosge,  1030 
potassii  chloras,  1292 
rhus  glabrum,  1381 
rosa  gallica,  1386 
saccharum,  1397 
salvia,  1406 
sodii  boras,  1459 
tinct.  myrrhge,  1629 
trochisci  potassii  chlorat., 
1655 

viola,  1712 
zinci  sulphas,  1731 
Apncea,  aqua,  245 
Apoplexy,  aq.  ammonige,  252 
cantliaris,  400 
colocynthis,  525 
ergota,  621 
hirudo,  816 
ol.  tiglii,  1165 
sodii  chlorid.,  1468 
Nervous,  asafcetida,  297 
Arthritis,  acid,  arsenos.,  29 
antipyrina,  231 
hydrarg.  chlorid.  corros.,  825 
iodoformum,  881 


Arthritis— 
iodum,  891 
moxa,  1061 
ol.  morrhuge,  1135 

Ascarides,  acetum,  14 
acid,  carbolic.,  43 
gether,  134 
allium,  160 
aloe,  165 
apocynum,  234 
aquge  minerales,  272 
argenti  nitras,  285 
camphora,  390 
enema  aloes,  613 
enema  terebinthinge,  614 
fel  bovis,  716 
glycerinum,  781 
gratiola,  794 
hydrargyrum,  844,  845 
kamala,  910 
liquor  calcis,  953 
ol.  olivge,  1141 
paraffinum,  1194 
quassia,  1340 
ruta,  1390 
saccharum,  1397 
santonica,  1413 
santoninum,  1415 
sodii  chlorid.,  1468 
tabacum,  1577 
trochisci  santonini,  1655 
V.  Worms. 

Ascites.  V.  Dropsy. 

Asphyxia,  aqua,  245,  246 
aqua  ammonige,  252 
oxygenium,  1187 

Asthma,  acid,  arsenos.,  29 
acid,  carbonic.,  47 
actgea,  123 
gether,  134 
gethyl  iodid.,  143 
allyl  tribromid.,  160 
ammoniacum,  180 
amyl  nitris,  198 
antipyrinum,  231 
aq.  hydrogen,  diox.,  263 
argenti  iodid.,  278 
aspidosperma,  304 
belladonna,  330 
caftea,  364 
catalpa,  423 
cerii  oxalas,  439 
charta  potass,  nitrat.,  444 
chloral,  457 
chloroformum,  469 
cocainge  hydrochlor.,  510 
conium,  533 
crocus,  556 
dracontium,  589 
erythrophlceum,  625 
eucalyptus,  629 
grindelia,  795 
hyoscyamus,  856 
imperatoria,  865 
ipecacuanha,  896 
laburnum,  915 
liq.  potassii  arsenitis,  980 
lobelia,  996 
menthol,  1035 
morphina,  1055 
oenothera,  1088 
ol.  cajuputi,  1115 
opium,  1179 
oxygenium,  1187 
pilocarpus,  1231 
potassii  brornid.,  1286 
potassii  iodid.,  1306 
potassii  nitras,  1309 
pyridine,  1109,  1110 
quininge  sulphas,  1357 
sangu  inaria,  1409 


INDEX  OF  THERAPEUTICS. 


1869 


Asthma — 

sodii  arsenas.,  1452 
sodii  nitras,  1402 
solanine,  591 
staphysagria,  1513 
stramonium,  1518 
strophanthus,  1524 
stryehnina,  1530 
tabacum,  1577 
tinct.  lobelise,  1627 
tinct.  lobelise  set  her.,  1628 
tinct.  stramonii,  1638 
trochisci  ipecac.,  1653 
viscum,  1713 
zinci  oxidum,  1727 
zinci  sulphas,  1731 
Ataxia,  febrile,  alcohol,  154 
moschus,  1060 

Locomotor,  antipyrinum,  231 
argenti  nitras,  282 
cannabis,  396 
carbonei  bisulpliid.,  410 
hyoscyamus,  856 
phosphorus,  1219 
pilocarpus,  1233 
zinci  phosphidum,  1729 
Atrophy,  muscular,  cantharis, 
401 

sinapis,  1448 

BALANITIS,  argenti  nitras, 
284 

hydrarg.  chlor.  corros.,  824 
zinci  oxidum,  1728 
Bed-sores,  collodium  flexile,  522 
decoct,  quercus,  579 
emplast.  plumbi,  607 
emplast.  saponis,  608 
hypericum,  858 
plumbi  nitras,  1264 
tinct.  aloes,  1605 
tinct.  benzoini,  1608 
tinct.  benzoini  c.,  1609 
zinci  oxidum,  1728 
Biliary  calculi,  aether,  131 
aqua,  245 

aquse  minerales,  273 
atropinse  sulph.,  308 
ol.  terebinthinse,  1159 
sodii  bicarbonas,  1456 
Colic,  aether,  134 
aqua,  245 

chloroformum,  469 
morphina,  1055 
Disorder,  anthemis,  216 
manna,  1019 

Bites  of  insects,  acid,  nitric.,  76 
albumen  ovi,  147 
ammonii  carbonas,  184 
aqua,  244 

aqua  ammonise,  252 
euphorbia  prostata,  633 
ol.  olivae,  1141 

Of  rabid  animals,  iodum,  893 
Of  serpents,  acid,  nitric.,  76 
ammonii  carb.,  184 
aq.  ammonise,  252 
ammonii  chlor.,  187 
aralia  spinosa,  275 
euphorbia  prostata,  633 
iodum,  892 
oleum  olivse,  1141 
Bladder,  calculus  in,  enema 
terebinthinse,  614 
liquor  calcis,  953 
Catarrh  of,  acid,  tannic.,  109 
ammoniacum,  180 
argenti  nitras,  284,  285 
argenti  oxid.,  286 
betol,  1075 
betula,  338 


Bladder,  catarrh  of — 
buchu,  356 
cantharis,  399 
Collinsonia,  520 
copaiba,  540 
creolinum,  551 
cubeba,  558 

enema  terebinthinse,  614 
fabiana,  712 
galbanum,  762 
glechoma,  778 
grindelia,  795 
hypericum,  858 
inula,  877 
iodum,  891 
jacaranda,  901 
juniperus,  907 
liquidambar,  947 
liquor  calcis,  953 
liquor  ferri  chloridi,  960 
matico,  1025 
myrtus,  1070 
naphthalol,  1075 
ol.  succini,  1156 
ol.  terebinthinse,  1159 
ol.  thymi,  1163 
pareira,  1198 
piper  methysticum,  1025 
pix  liquidse,  1256 
quininse  sulphas,  1360 
salol,  1404 

sorghum,  1648  f 

styracol,  800 
tr.  ferri  chloridi,  1620 
uva  ursi,  1680 
veronica,  1695 
Debility  of,  cantharis,  399 
colocynthis,  525 
ergota,  621 

ol.  terebinthinse,  1159 
stryehnina,  1530 
Diseases  of,  betula,  338 
buchu,  356 
opium,  1181 
uva  ursi,  1680 

Inflammation  of,  amylum, 
206 

aqua,  246 
argenti  nitras,  284 
chondrus,  473 
copaiba,  540 
cubeba,  558 
glycyrrliiza,  787 
infus.  lini,  871 
linum,  946 
mucil.  ulmi,  1063 
syr.  amygdalse,  1556 
terebinthina,  1587 
triticum,  1648 
verbascum,  1695 
veronica,  1695 
Irritable,  aqua,  246 
belladonnse  suppositor.,  653 
cetaceum,  440 
chondrus,  473 
cocaina,  508 
copaiba,  540 
cubeba,  558 
cucumis,  559 
humulus,  819 
lini  farini,  946 
lupulina,  1000 
manna,  1019 
potassii  bromidum,  1287 
sorghum,  1648 
suppositor.  belladonnse,  603 
syr.  amygdalse,  1556 
Paralysis  of,  cantharis,  399 
colocynthis,  525 
ergota,  621 

ol.  terebinthinse,  1159 


Bladder,  paralysis  of — 
rubus,  1387 
stryehnina,  1529 
Spasm  of,  atropinse  sulph.,  308 
belladonna,  330 
chloroformum,  469 
cocaina,  509 

ext.  belladonn.  fol.  alcohol, 
653 

suppos.  morphinse,  1550 
Blepharitis,  argenti  nitras,  283 
iodoform,  882 
iodum,  892 

ung.  hydrarg.  amnion.,  1665 
ung.  hydrarg.  oxid.  flaw,  1667 
ung.  hydrarg.  oxid.  rub.,  1668 
Blepharospasm,  amyl  nitris,  198 
Blisters,  to  heal,  ceratum  ceta- 
cei,  435 

cerat.  plumbi  subacetat.,  436 
cerat.  resinse,  436 
cerat.  sabinse,  436 
elemi,  597 
gossypium  pur.,  791 
grindelia,  795 
sambucus,  1407 
ung.  cetacei,  1662 
ung.  zinci  oxidi,  1673 
zinci  carb.  precip.,  1722 
To  produce,  acid,  acetic.,  22 
argenti  nitras  fus.,  283 
cantharis,  402 
mezereum,  1040 

Blood-stains,  guaiaci  resina,  798 
Boils,  acid,  boricum,  36 
acid,  carbolic.,  43 
aluminium  acetate,  177 
aqua,  242 
arnica,  291 
calcium  sulphide,  385 
camphor  (carbolized),  390 
cantharis,  400 
cataplasma  lini,  424 
ficus,  752 
glycerinum,  781 
glycerit.  amyli,  784 
iodoform.,  892 
liq.  potassse,  978 
mel,  1028 
pix  liquida,  1256 
potassa,  1272 
potassii  acetas,  1276 
resorcinum,  1373 
sapo,  1418,  1419 

Bones,  fish,  in  throat,  acid,  hy- 
drochlor.  dil.,  63 
Softening  of,  acid,  phosphor., 
86 

calcii  phosphas  prsecip.,  371 
Brain,  congestion  of,  acid,  hy- 
drobrom.  dil.,  59 
aqua,  241 
asafoetida,  297 
cantharis,  400 
elaterium,  595 

enema  magnesise  sulphatis, 
613 

gelsemium,  771 
hirudo,  816 
pil.  scammonii  c.,  1246 
sinapis  nigra,  1448 
sodii  chlorid.,  1468 
tr.  cantharidis,  1611 
urtica,  1677 

Dropsy  of,  cantharis,  400 
hydrargyri  chlorid.  mite,  829 
potassii  iodidum,  1306 
Irritation  of,  acid,  hydro- 
brom.,  59 

potassii  bromidum,  1285 
zinci  phosphidum,  1729 


1870 


INDEX  OF  THERAPEUTICS. 


Brain,  Tumor  of,  potassii  iodid.,  [ 
1306 

Breath,  fetid,  aq.  hydrogen, 
diox.,  263 
calx  chlorata,  385 
catechu,  428 
creolinum,  551 
potassii  chloras,  1294 
potassii  permanganas,  1312 
Bright’s  disease,  acid,  benzoic., 
33 

acid,  gallic.,  56 
anilina,  213 
aquae  minerales,  273 
pilocarpus,  1232 
pulv.  ipecac,  et  opii,  1331 
Bromide  eruption,  acid,  salicy- 
lic., 98 

Bromism,  strychnina,  1529 
Bromidrosis,  oleatum  hydrar- 
gyri,  1099 

Bronchitis,  acetat.  ipecac.,  15 
acetonum,  12 
aceturn  lobeliae,  997 
acid,  arsenosum,  29 
acid,  benzoic.,  34 
acid,  carbolic.,  42 
acid,  carbonic.,  47 
acid,  hydriodic.,  57 
acid,  hydrobrom.,  59 
acid,  nitric,  dil.,  76 
acid,  phosphor.,  86 
acid,  salicylic.,  94 
acid,  succinic.,  97 
acid,  tannic.,  109 
acid,  tartaric.,  112 
adeps  benzoinatus,  125 
adiantum,  128 
aether,  136 
aether  acetic.,  139 
aethyl  iodid.,  143 
agaricinum,  144 
alcohol  methylic.,  157 
allium,  160 
althaea,  169 
alumen,  171 
ammoniacum,  179 
ammonii  carbonas,  184 
ammonii  chloridum,  186, 187 
angelica,  210 
anisum,  215 

antimon.  et  potass,  tart.,  220 
apomorphina,  237 
aqua,  245 

aqua  ammoniae,  252 
aqua  chlori,  258 
aquae  minerales,  273,  274 
argenti  nitras,  282 
arum,  294 
asafoetida,  296 
asclepias,  300 

atherosperma  moschata,  348 

balsam,  peruvian.,  320 

balsam,  tolutan.,  322 

benzoinum,  335 

bidens,  339 

bolus,  349 

borago,  350 

bryonia,  354 

calcium  sulphide,  376 

calx  chlorata,  385 

cantharis,  399 

carthamus,  415 

catalpa,  423 

catechu,  428 

cerii  oxalas,  439 

cetaceum,  440 

cetraria,  441 

cheken,  1070 

chirata,  452 

chondrus,  473 


Bronchitis — 

cimicifuga,  479 
cocillana,  899 
copaiba,  539 
creosotum,  549 
cubeba,  558 
decoctum  hordei,  578 
decoct,  quercus,  578 
digitalis,  586 
dioscorea,  587 
dracontium,  589 
drosera,  589 
dulcamara,  591 
emplast.  picis  cantharid.,  605 
emulsum  ammoniac,  611 
emulsum  amygdalae,  611 
eriodictyon,  623 
eupatorium,  631 
euphrasia,  635 
ext.  glycyrrhizae,  676 
ferri  et  ammonii  sulph.,  724 
ferrum,  747 
galbanum,  762 
glechoma,  777 
glycerina,  782 
glycyrrliiza,  787 
gnaphalium,  789 
grindelia,  795 
gurjun  oil,  541 
hedeoma,  806 
liepatica,  811 
hordeum,  818 
liydrarg.  chlor.  corros.,  823 
liydrarg.  chlor.  mitis,  830 
hypericum,  858 
hyssopus,  859 
iberis,  514 
ilex  opaca,  863 
illicium,  864 
inula,  877 
iodum,  891 
ipecacuanha,  896 
iris  florentina,  901 
jujuba,  906 
labdanum,  914 
lac,  920 
lappa,  929 
laricis  cortex,  930 
liniment,  ammoniae,  939 
liniment,  crotonis,  941 
liniment,  terebinthinae,  943 
liniment,  terebinthinae  acet., 
944 

linum,  946 
liquidambar,  947 
liquor  ammonii  acetatis,  949 
liquor  calcis,  953 
liquor  potassae,  978 
lycopodium,  1002 
magnolia,  1012 
marrubium,  1020 
matico,  1025 

mistura  ferri  aromatica,  1042 
mistura  ferri  comp.,  1043 
mistura  glycyrrhizae  c.,  1044 
monarda,  1047 
monesia,  1047 
moxa,  1061 
mucilago  acaciae,  1062 
mucilago  ulmi,  1063 
myrrha,  1069 
myrtus,  1070 
napthalinum,  1072 
naregamia,  317 
narcissus,  1076 
ol.  anisi,  1111 
ol.  copaibae,  1120 
ol.  morrhuae,  1136 
ol.  ricini,  1146 
ol.  santali,  1151 
ol.  succini,  1156 


I Bronchitis — 

ol.  terebinthinae,  1159 

ol.  theobromae,  1162 

ol.  thymi,  1163 

ol.  tiglii,  1165 

olibanum,  1167 

opium,  1179 

opoponax,  1183 

oxygenium,  1187 

oxymel  scillae,  1188 

petroleum,  1211 

phellandrium,  1214 

pilocarpus,  1232 

pil.  ferri  carb.^  1243 

pil.  galbani  c.,  1244 

pil.  ipecacuan.  c.  scilla,  1244 

pil.  plumbi  c.  opio,  1245 

pil.  scillae  c.,  1246 

pix  burgundica,  1253 

pix  liquida,  1255 

plumbi  acetas,  1261 

polygala,  1269 

potassii  hvpophosphis,  1301 

potassii  iodid.,  1306 

potassii  nitras,  1306 

pulmonaria,  350 

pulv.  ipecac,  et  opii,  1331 

quercus,  1341 

quillaja,  1342 

quininae  sulphas,  1359 

ranunculus,  1364 

resina,  1365 

ruta,  1390 

sagapenum,  1183 

sanguinaria,  1409 

saponaria,  1420 

sassafras  medulla,  1427 

scilla,  1431 

senega,  1438 

sinapis,  1447 

sodii  hypophosphis,  1470 
sodii  hyposulphis,  1472 
solanine,  591 
strychnina,  1531 
sulphur,  1543 
syr.  allii,  1555 
syr.  althaeae,  1555 
syr.  ipecacuanhae,  1564 
syr.  scillae,  1570 
syr.  scillae  c.,  1571 
syr.  senegae,  1571 
taxus,  1582 
terebenum,  1584 
terebinthina,  1587 
terpini  hydras,  1588 
teucrium,  1589 
thapsia,  1592 
tliea,  1595 
thuja,  1599 
tilia,  1602 

tinct.  benzoini,  1608 
tinct.  benzoini  c.,  1609 
tinct.  laricis,  1626 
tragacantha,  1643 
triticum,  1648 
trochisci  acid,  tannic.,  1650 
trochisci  ammon.  chlor.,  1651 
trochisci  glycyrr.  et  opii,  1653 
trochisci  ipecac.,  1653 
trochisci  morphinae,  1654 
trochisci  morphinae  et  ipecac., 
1654 

tussilago,  1657 
uva  ursi,  1680 
verbascum,  1695 
veronica,  1695 
vin.  album,  1702 
vin.  antimonii,  1703 
vin.  ipecacuanhae,  1706 
viola,  1712 
zingiber,  1737 


INDEX  OF  THERAPEUTICS. 


1871 


Bronchitis,  fetid,  acid,  car- 
bolic, 42 

aq.  hydrarg.  diox.,  263 
creosotum,  549 
eucalyptus,  628 
hydrarg.  chlor.  corros.,  823 
myrtus,  1070 
ol.  terebinthinae,  1159 
ol.  thymi,  1163 
sodii  hyposulphis,  1472 
Broxchorrhcea,  agaricus  alb., 
144 

alumen,  172 
apomorphina,  236 
aquae  minerales,  273,  274 
creosotum,  549 
emulsum  ammoniac.,  611 
geum,  776 
ipecacuanha,  896 
liquor  calcis,  953 
napthaliuum,  1072 
pil.  galbani  c.,  1244 
quercus,  1341 
senega,  1438 
trochisci  ipecac.,  1653 
tr.  ferri  chloridi,  1620 
Bruise.  V.  Contusion. 

Bubo,  calcium  sulphide,  385 
cantharis,  400 
iodoformum,  881 
potassii  chloras,  1294 
staphisagria,  1513 
Bunions,  liq.  potassae,  978 
Burns,  acacia,  8 
acetum,  14 
acid,  boricum,  36 
acid,  carbolic.,  43 
acid,  carbonic.,  47 
albumen  ovi,  147 
aluminii  hydras,  175 
aqua,  241,  244 
aqua  ammoniae,  252 
aqua  creosoti,  259 
argenti  nitras,  284 
bismuthi  subnitras,  346 
bolus,  349 

calcii  carb.  praecipit.,  370 
calx  chlorata,  385 
ceratum  resinae,  436 
collodium  flexile,  522 
creosotum,  549 
cynoglossum,  350 
elastica,  594 
farina  tritici,  714 
glyceritum  amyli,  784 
glyceritum  vitelli,  786 
gossypium,  791 
grindelia,  795 
iodoformum,  881,  882 
iodum,  891 
lappa,  929 
liniment,  calcis,  940 
liniment,  terebinthinae.  943 
lini  farina,  946 
liquidambar,  947 
liq.  calcis,  953 
liq.  plumbi  subacetatis,  974 
liq.  sodae  chlorat.,  985 
menthol,  1035 
mucilago  amyli,  1062 
mucilago  tragacanthae,  1063 
mucilago  ulmi,  1063 
ol.  lini,  1130 
ol.  menthae  viridis,  1132 
ol.  olivae,  1141 
ol.  terebinthinae,  1160 
ol.  thymi,  1163 
paraffinum,  1194 
parietaria.  1198 
passi  flora,  1200 
petroleum,  1214 


Burns — 

piscidia,  1252 
plumbi  carbonas,  1263 
plumbi  oxidum,  1267 
potassii  chloras,  1293 
rhigolene,  1211 
sambucus,  1407 
sodii  bicarbonas,  1456 
syrupus,  1553 
terebenum,  1584 
theriaca,  1598 
ung.  creosoti,  1662 
ung.  plumbi  carb.,  1670 
ung.  terebinthinae,  1672 
vitellus,  1714 
zinci  oxid.,  1728 

Bursae,  enlarged,  ammonii 
chlor.,  187 

pALCULOUS  DISEASES,  acid, 
hydrochlor.  dil.,  63 
alisma,  158 
aquae  minerales,  273 
enema  terebinthinae,  614 
Fabian  a,  712 
lac,  920 
lappa,  929 
liquor  calcis,  953 
lithii  benzoas,  989 
lithii  carbonas,  992 
morphina,  1055 
potassa,  1272 
uva  ursi,  1680 
V.  Gravel. 

Cancer,  acid,  acet.,  22 
acid,  arsenos.,  30 
acid,  carbonic.,  47 
acid,  chromic.,  49 
acid,  sulphuric.,  102 
aethyleni  bichlorid.,  140 
aluminii  sulph.,  177 
aqua,  243 
aqua  chlori,  258 
arseni  iodid.,  30 
aurum,  315 
belladouna,  329 
bismuthi  subnitras,  346 
bromi  chlorid.,  352 
calendula,  377 
cataplasma  carbonas,  423 
cataplasma  conii,  423 
ceanothus,  429 
chloral,  458 
chloroforum,  469 
condurango,  527 
conium,  532 
creosotum,  549 
eucalyptus,  628 
ferrum,  748 
galium,  764 
iodoformum,  881 
iodol,  886 
iodolum,  886 
lac,  919 

lycoperdon, 1000 
pepsinum,  1207 
potassii  permanganas,  1312 
sanguinaria,  1409 
terebinthina,  1587 
thuja,  1598 
ung.  creosoti,  1662 
ung.  stramonii,  1671 
zinci  chloridum,  1724 
Cancroid,  potassii  chloras,  1294 
euphorbia  heterodoxa,  633 
Cancrum  oris,  bism.  subnitr., 
346 

zinci  sulphas,  1731 
Carbuncle,  acid,  carbolic.,  43 
aether,  134 
aqua,  242 


Carbuncle — 
cantharis,  400 
collodium  flexile,  522 
cyclamen,  572 
glycerina,  782 
iodum,  892 
iodoform,  884 
juglaus,  905 
mel,  1028 
menthol,  1035 
ol.  terebinthinae,  1160 
potassa,  1272 
potassii  acetas,  1276 
potassii  permanganas,  1312 
resorcin,  1372 

Caries,  acid,  lactic.,  71 
acid,  nitric,  dil.,  76 
acid,  phosphoric.,  87 
acid,  sulphuric.,  102 
calcii  chlorid.,  371 
calcii  hypophosph.,  373 
oleum  morrhuae,  1135 
potassii  permanganas,  1312 

Cataract,  atropini  sulph.,  309 
belladonna,  330 
cocaina,  506 

Catarrh,  bronchial.  Y.  Bron- 
chitis. 

Catarrh,  gastric,  camphor  (car- 
bolized),  390 

Catarrh,  gastro-intestinal, 
alumen,  171.  V.  Dyspep- 
sia. 

Local,  argenti  nitras,  283 
argenti  oxid.,  286 
Nasal,  bals.  peruvianum,  320 
bismuthi  oxid.,  341 
calcium  sulphide,  385 
iodoformum,  883 
liq.  calcis,  953 
salvia,  1406 
sodii  chloridum,  1468 
Summer,  opium,  1179 
quininae  sulphas,  1360 
Uterine,  aloe,  165 
eucalyptus,  629 
galbanum,  762 
Vesical,  acid,  tannic.,  109 
ammoniacum,  180 
argenti  nitras,  285 
argenti  oxid.,  286 
boldus,  348 
copaiba,  540 
eucalyptus,  628 
galbanum,  762 
glechoma,  778 
glycyrrhiza,  787 
helenium,  807 
juniperus,  907 
quininae  sulph.,  1360 
V.  Bladder. 

Cautery',  chloroform,  469 
collodium  flexile,  523 

Cavities,  pulmonary,  iodum, 
892 

Cephalhematoma,  collodium 
flexile,  522 

I Cerumen,  hardened,  aqua,  246 
glycerinum,  781 
vitellus,  1714 

Chancres,  acid,  salicylic.,  95 
argenti  nitras,  284 
aq.  hydrogen,  diox.,  263 
iodoformum,  882,  884 
liq.  antimonii  chlor.,  950 
lotio  hydrargyri  flava,  998 
lotio  hydrargyri  nigra,  998 
potassa,  1272 
resorcinum,  1373 
vin.  aromaticum,  1704 

Chilblains,  acid,  nitric,  dil.,  76 


1872  INDEX  OF  THERAPEUTICS. 


Chilblains — 
alumen,  172 
aqua,  241 
aqua  creosoti,  259 
balsam,  peruviau.,  320 
cerat.  cetacei,  435 
copaiba,  540 
creosotum,  549 
iodum,  891 

liniment,  saponis,  942 
liniment,  terebinth  inse,  944 
liq.  ferri  chloridi,  961 
olibanum,  1167 
paraffinum,  1194 
petroleum,  1211 
sodii  boras,  1459 
tinct.  benzoini,  1608 
tinct.  cantharidis,  1611 
tinct.  ferri  chloridi,  1620 
ung.  creosoti,  1662 
ung.  iodi,  1669 
verbascum,  1695 

Chloasma,  acid,  salicylic.,  95 
hydrarg.  chlorid.  corros.,  824 
potassii  nitras,  1309 
sodii  boras,  1459 
sulphur,  1542 

Chlorosis,  acid,  arsenos.,  29 
aqua,  241,  245 
aq.  hydrogen,  diox.,  263 
calcii  hypophosph.,  373 
ferri  citras,  722 
ferri  et  ammonii  citras,  723 
ferri  oxid.  hydratum,  736 
ferri  subcarbonas,  736 
ferri  subcarb.  saccharat.,  736 
ferri  valerianas,  744 
ferrum,  746 

ferrum  dialysatum,  961 

kephir,  923 

koumys,  922 

massa  ferri  carb.,  1022 

oleum  thymi,  1162 

pancreatinum,  1190 

pil.  ferri  carb.,  1242 

sabina,  1392 

sanguis,  1410 

syr.  ferri  phosphatis,  1561 

teucrium,  1589 

zinci  phosphidum,  1729 

Cholera,  acetum,  14 
acid,  sulphuric.,  102 
aether,  131,  136 
aq.  ammonise,  252 
argenti  nitras,  282 
bismuthi  subnitras,  346 
calcii  carb.  praecip.,  370 
colchicum,  519 
creosotum,  548 
creta  praeparata,  554 
cupri  sulphas,  563 
hydrarg.  chlor.  corros.,  824 
hydrarg.  chlor.  mite,  830 
ipecacuanha,  898 
lac,  920 

mistura  cretae,  1042 
morphina,  1055 
ol.  cajuputi,  1115 
opium,  1180 
physostigma,  1223 
sinapis,  1448 
sodii  chloridum,  1468 
strychnina,  1531 
zingiber,  1737 

Cholera  infantum,  aqua,  245 
bismuthi  subnitras,  346 
copper  arsenite,  564 
coto,  1079 

creta  praeparata,  554 
geranium,  775 
hydrargyrum  c.  creta,  848 


Cholera  infantum — 
maltum,  1014 
mentha  piperita,  1033 
mentha  viridis  1035 
monarda,  1046 
moschus,  1060 
oleum  sesami,  1154 
ol.  terebinthinae,  1159 
opium,  1180 
rubus,  1387 
salep,  1399 
sesamum,  1154 
sodium  salicylas,  1482 
Cholera  morbus,  acid,  sulph. 

102 

calumba,  379 
coca,  504 
ipecacuanha,  898 
mentha  piperita,  1033 
ol.  cajuputi,  1115 
opium,  1180 
pil.  opii,  1244 
sinapis,  1448 
zingiber,  1737 
Chordee,  amyl  nitris,  199 
caffea,  367 
camphora,  390 
cocainae  hydrochlor.,  509 
iodoformum,  881 
opium,  1181 
potassii  bromid.,  1286 
Chorea,  acid,  arsenos.,  29 
acid,  salicylic.,  94 
aether,  135 
alisma,  158 
amyl  nitris,  198 
anilina,  213 

antimon.  et  potass,  tart.,  221 

antipyrinum,  230 

aqua,  242 

apomorphina,  236 

argenti  iodid.,  278 

asafcetida,  297 

camphora  monobromata,  392 

cannabis,  395 

cerii  oxalas,  439 

chloral,  457 

chloroform,  469 

cimicifuga,  479 

conium,  533 

cuprum  ammoniatum,  564 
cypripedium,  574 
dracontium,  589 
ferri  bromidum,  717 
ferri  carb.  saccharat.,  718 
ferrum,  747 
hyoscyamus,  856 
methylacetanilid,  11 
moschus,  1061 
narcissus,  1076 
ol.  animale  sethereum,  1109 
ol.  chenopodii,  1118 
ol.  valerianse,  1166 
opium,  1179 
pseonia,  1188 
physostigma,  1223 
picrotoxinum,  1228 
piscidia,  1252 
plumbi  acetas,  1261 
potassii  bromid.,  1285 
strychnina,  1530 
trimethylamina,  1646 
urethanum,  1675 
viscum,  1713 
zinci  cyanidum,  1735 
zinci  oxid.,  1727 
zinci  sulphas,  1731 
zinci  valerianas,  1733 
Choroiditis,  santoninum,  1416 
Chyluria,  acid,  benzoic.,  34 
Circumcision,  cocaina,  509 


Clots  in  the  heart,  aqua  am 
mon.,  252 
Colic,  achillea,  17 
sether,  134,  135 
aether  aceticus,  139 
agave,  145 
anethi  fructus,  209 
anisum,  215 
anthemis,  216 
aqua,  245,  246 
aqua  anethi,  254 
aqua  anisi,  254 
aqua  camphorse,  255 
aqua  chloroformi,  259 
aqua  cinnamomi,  259 
aqua  fceniculi,  261 
aqua  menthse  piper.,  264 
aqua  menthse  virid.,  264 
aqua  pimentse,  264 
arum,  294 
asarum,  300 
asclepias,  299 
aurantii  cortex,  312 
benzonium  odorif.,  932 
calamus,  368 
cardamomum,  413 
carum,  416 
caryophyllus,  417 
cataplasma  sinapis,  424 
catariaj  425 
chlorodyne,  471 
chloroformum,  469 
Collinsonia,  520 
Compton  i a,  526 
cotula,  546 
crocus,  556 

emulsum  chloroformi,  612 

erythrophlceum,  625 

fceniculum,  753 

hedeoma,  806 

humulus,  819 

illicium,  864 

imperatoria,  865 

infus.  aurantii,  868 

infus.  caryophylli,  868 

infus.  catechu,  869 

liatris,  737 

magnesia,  1006 

mentha  piperita,  1033 

mistura  rhei  et  sodse,  1045 

morphina,  1055 

moschus,  1061 

ol.  anethi,  1108 

ol.  anisi,  1111 

ol.  anthemidis,  1111 

ol.  cajuputi,  1115 

ol.  cari,  1116 

ol.  coriar.dri,  1121 

ol.  fceniculi,  1123 

ol.  hedeomse,  1127 

ol.  menthse  piper.,  1132 

ol.  menthse  viridis,  1132 

ol.  ricini,  1146 

ol.  rosmarini,  1149 

ol.  rutse,  1150 

ol.  terebinthinse,  1153 

ol.  tiglii,  1165 

opium,  1180 

origanum,  1184 

persica,  1207 

piper,  1249 

pulv.  aromaticus,  1328 
sinapis,  1448 
sodii  chloridum,  1468 
solidago,  1490 
spirit,  sether.  comp.,  1495 
spirit,  ammon.  fcetid.,  1501 
spirit,  anisi,  1501 
spirit,  cajuputi,  1502 
spirit,  chloroform.,  1503 
spirit,  cinnamomi,  1503 


INDEX  OF  THERAPEUTICS. 


1873 


Colic— 

spirit,  mentlife  piper.,  1500 
spirit,  menthge  viridis,  1506 
syr.  zingiberis,  1573 
tanacetum,  1579 
tinct.  chloroformi  c.,  1614 
tinct.  lavandulge  c.,  16*27 
tinct.  opii  amnion iata,  1631 
tinct.  opii  camphorata,  1632 
tinct.  zingiberis.  1642 
trochisci  menthge  pip.,  1654 
trocbisci  zingiberis,  1656 
valeriana,  1682 
viscum,  1713 
wintera,  1715 
zingiber,  1737 
Biliary,  aether,  135 
amyl  nitris,  198 
antipyrinum,  231 
aqua,  245 

chloroformum,  469 
emulsum  chloroformi,  612 
opium,  1180 
sodium  salicylas,  1482 
tinct.  chloroformi  c.,  1614 
Lead,  acetum,  14 
acid,  sulphuric.,  103 
alumen,  171 
aqua,  242 
belladonna,  330 
magnesii  sulphas,  1011 
ol.  ricini,  1146 
ol.  tiglii,  1165 
opium,  1180 
tabacum,  1576 
Nephritic,  aether,  135 
amyl  nitris,  198 
antipyrinum,  231 
aqua,  245 

chloroformum,  469 
opium,  1180 
persica,  1207 
santoninum,  1416 
V.  Gravel. 

Painter’s,  chloroform.,  469 
Collapse,  alcohol,  154 
belladonna,  331 
ether,  136 
Coma,  aqua,  241 
colocynthis,  525 
oxygenium,  1187 
pulsatilla,  1323 
urtica,  1677 

Condylomata,  acid,  chloracetic., 
22 

acid,  chromic.,  49 
acid,  nitric,  dil .,  76 
creosotum,  549 
cupri  subacetas,  561 
hydrarg.  chlor.  corros.,  822, 
824 

hydrarg.  ox.  rub.,  838 
liq.  antimon.  chlor.,  950 
oleatum  hydrargyri,  1099 
ol.  sabinae,  1150 
plumbi  oxidum,  1267 
sabina,  1393 
ung.  hydrargyri,  1665 
Congestion,  aqua,  243,  245 
aqua  ammoniae,  251 
cataplasma  sinapis,  424 
elaterinum,  595 
hamamelis,  805 
hirudo,  816 
sinapis,  1448 
tinct.  cantharidis,  1611 
Conjunctivitis,  acid,  boricum, 
35 

acid,  tannic.,  110 
albumen  ovi,  147 
argent!  nitras,  283 
118 


| Conjunctivitis— 

cadmii  sulphas,  358 
crocus,  556 
cupri  acetas,  561 
cupri  sulphas,  563 
ergota,  622 
ferrum,  748 
glyceritum  amyli,  784 
hydrastis,  850 
hydrarg.  chlor.  corros.,  824 
iodum,  892 

mucilago  cydonii,  1063 
mucilago  sassafras  medull., 
1063 

myrtus,  1071 
opium,  1181 
plumbi  acetas,  1261 
quininae  sulph.,  1360 
sarcocolla,  1420 
sassafras  medulla,  1427 
sneezewort,  17 
thea,  1595 
vin.  opii.,  1707 
vitellus  ovi,  1714 
zinci  acetas,  1720 
zinci  sulphas,  1731 
Constipation,  aloe,  165 
alumen,  171 
aqua,  242,  245 
aqua  minerales,  271 
asafoetida,  296 
avenge  farina,  316 
belladonna,  330 
beige  fructus,  327 
berberis,  337 
caffea,  363 
carbo  ligni,  409 
cassia  fistula,  419 
cetraria,  441 
colocynthis,  525 
colutea,  526 

confectio  scammonii,  529 
confectio  sennee,  530 
confectio  sulphuris,  530 
cucumis  myriocarpus,  526 
curcas,  568 

enema  asafcetidge,  613 
enema  magnesige  sulphatis, 
613 

ergota,  621 
euonymus,  630 
extract,  colocynthidis  comp., 
665 

fel  bovis,  716 
ferri  sulphas,  742 
frangula,  756 
glycerinum,  781 
hydrastis,  850 
infus.  senuge  c.,  873 
iris,  901 
jalapa,  904 
leptandra,  935 
liquor  magnesii  citratis,  972 
magnesii  sulphas,  1010 
manna,  1019 
ol.  ricini,  1146 
ol.  tiglii,  1165 
pil.  aloes,  1239 
pil.  aloes  et  asafcetidge,  1239 
pil.  aloes  et  ferri,  1239 
pil.  aloes  et  mastiches,  1240 
pil.  catharticge  comp.,  1241 
pil.  rhei,  1245 
pil.  rhei  c.,  1246 
pix  liquida,  1256 
podophyllum,  1268 
potassii  et  ammon.  tart.,  1317 
potassii  et  sod.  tart.,  1299 
potassii  et  sod.  boro-tart.,  1317 
potassii  sulphas,  1314 
potassii  tartras,  1316, 1317 


Constipation — 
prunum,  1319 
psyllium,  1257 
pulv.  efterves.  comp.,  1329 
pulv.  glycyrrliizge  c.,  1330 
rhamnus  purshiana,  1375 
resina  jalapge,  1368 
resina  podophylli,  1369 
resina  scammonii,  1370 
sapo,  1418 
scammonium,  1429 
senna,  1442 
sinapis,  1447 
sodii  sulphas,  1484 
sodii  sulphomethylas,  1488 
sodii  sulphovinas,  1488 
strychnina,  1530 
suppositor.  asafcetidge,  1548 
syr.  rhamni,  1567 
syr.  rhei,  1567 
syr.  rhei  aromat.,  1568 
syr.  sennge,  1572 
tamarindus,  1578 
taraxacum,  1581 
tinct.  aloes  et  myrrhge,  1606 
vin.  aloes,  1703 
vin.  rhei,  1708 

Contusions,  acetum,  14 
alcohol,  155 
albumen  ovi,  147 
alisma,  158 
alnus,  161 
alumen,  172 
ammonii  chlorid.,  187 
aqua,  242,  245,  246 
aqua  sedativa,  265 
arnica,  291 
benzoinum,  335 
cactus,  357 
calendula,  377 
cerevisige  fermentum,  437 
convallaria,  535 
cotyledon,  546 
crocus,  556 
cynoglossum,  350 
humulus,  819 
hypericum,  858 
hyssopus,  859 
liniment,  aconiti,  939 
liniment,  belladonnge,  939 
liniment,  campliorge,  940 
liniment,  camphorge  c.,  940 
liniment,  saponis,  942 
liq.  ammonii  acct.,  949 
liq.  plumbi  subacetatis,  974 
naphthalinum,  1072 
ol.  olivge,  1140 
ol.  palmge,  1142 
ol.  rosmarini,  1149 
origanum,  1184 
paraffinum,  1194 
plumbi  acetas,  1261 
potassii  nitras,  1309 
sanicula,  1411 
sodii  chlorid.,  1468 
spirit,  camphorge,  1502 
spirit,  tenuior,  1508 
tanacetum,  1579 
tr.  arnicge  flor. , 1606 
verbascum,  1695 

Convulsion,  tonic,  chloral,  457 
physostigma,  1223 

j Convulsions,  getber,  135,  136 
alcohol,  155 
allyl  tribromid..  160 
amyl  nitris,  198 
antimon.  et  potass,  tart..  221 
apomorphina,  236 
aqua,  242,  245 

camphora  monobromata,  392 
cantharis,  401 


1874 


INDEX  OF  THERAPEUTICS. 


Convulsions — 
chloral,  457 
chloroformum,  469,  470 
conium,  533 
morphina,  1055 
ol.  succini,  1156 
opium,  1179 
picrotoxin,  1228 
pilocarpus,  1231 
potassii  bromid.,  1286 
potassii  carbonas,  1290 
sinapis,  1448 
veratrum  viride,  1693 
vin.  album,  1702 
Infantile,  apomorphina,  236 
chloral,  457 
chloroform,  469 
conium,  533 
potassii  bromid.,  1286 
viola,  1712 

zinci  valerianas,  1733 
Cornea,  opacity  of,  argemone, 
277 

hydrarg.  oxid.  rubr.,  838 
hydrarg.  chlor.  corros.,  824 
saccharum,  1397 
sodii  boras,  1459 
Ulcer  of,  acid,  boricum,  35 
argenti  nitras,  283 
cadmii  sulphas,  358 
hydrarg.  chlor.  mite,  831 
hydrarg.  oxid.  rub.,  858 
iodoformum,  882 
opium,  1181 
physostigma,  1222 
Corns,  acid,  acetic.,  22 
acid,  salicylic.,  95 
anacardium,  208 
argenti  nitras,  285 
liq.  potassae,  978 
sedum,  1435 

sempervivum  tectorum,  1435 
Coryza,  acetum,  14 
acid,  salicylic.,  94 
acid,  tannic.,  110 
adeps  benzoat.,  125 
ammonii  carb.,  184 
aqua,  245 

aqua  ammonite,  252 
atropina,  308,  309 
belladonna,  331 
benzoinum,  335 
bismuthi  oxid.,  341 
bismuthi  subnitras,  346 
camphora,  390 
cocaina,  507 
euphorbium.  634 
euphrasia,  635 
gelatina,  769 
glycerina,  782 
glycerin,  acid,  tannici,  783 
helenium,  807 
liquor  calcis,  953 
menthol,  1035 
opium,  1182 
paraffinum,  1194 
pulv.  ipecac,  c.,  1331 
quillaja,  1342 
salicinum,  1401 
sneezewort,  17 
veratrum  album,  1691 
zingiber,  1737 
Cough,  acetonum,  12 

acid,  hydrobrom.  dil .,  59 
acid,  hydrocyan,  dil.,  67 
aether  aceticus,  139 
antipyrinum,  231 
belladonna,  330 
calamus,  368 

camphora  monobromata, 
392 


Cough— 

cephalanthus,  430 
cerii  oxalas,  439 
chloral,  457 
codeina,  516 
crocus,  556 
cydonium,  573 
ext.  pruni  virg.  fl.,  697 
glycerinum,  781 
ilex,  863 

infus.  pruni  virginianae,  872 
moschus,  1060 
ol.  amygdalae  express.,  1108 
opium,  1179 
piscidia,  1252 
prunus  virgin.,  1320 
saccharum,  1397 
spirit,  aetheris  nitros.,  1499 
tabacum,  1576 
tragacantha,  1643 
tr.  opii  ammoniata,  1631 
tr.  opii  camphorat.,  1632 
trochisci  acid,  tannic.,  1650 
trochisci  morphinae,  1654 
trochisci  morphinae  et  ipecac., 
1654 

Coxalgia,  moxa,  1061 
potassa,  1272 

Croup,  acid,  lactic.,  71 
aether,  135 
alumen,  171 

antimon.  et  pot.  tart.,  220 
aqua,  242,  244 
apomorphina,  237 
argenti  nitras,  282,  283 
belladonna,  330 
copaiba,  540 
cupri  sulphas,  563 
hydrarg.  chlorid.  mite,  830 
hydrargyrum,  845 
ipecacuanha,  896 
liquor  calcis,  953 
lobelia,  906 
moschus,  1060 
opium,  1179 
oxymel  scillae,  1188 
potassa  sulphurata,  1274 
potassii  carb.,  1290 
potassii  chloras,  1293 
sanguinaria,  1409 
scilla,  1431 
senega,  1438 
sulphur,  1543 
syr.  scillae  c.,  1571 
tabacum,  1576 
zinci  sulphas,  1731 

Crusta  lactea,  fumaria,  759 
hamamelis,  806 

Cyanosis,  potassii  chloras,  1293 

Cystinuria,  ammonii  carb.,  184 

Cystitis,  acid,  boric.,  36 
argenti  nitras,  284 
aq.  hydrogen,  diox.,  263 
betula,  338 
buchu,  356 
camphoric  acid,  391 
cantharis,  399 
cetaceum,  440 
chondrus,  473 
cubeba,  558 
glechoma,  778 
glycyrrhiza,  787 
hy  peri  cum,  858 
liysterionica  Baylahuen,  796 
iodoformum,  881,  882 
juniperus,  907 
kava-kava,  1025 
laricis  cortex,  930 
linum,  946 
liquidambar,  947 
manna,  1019 


Cystitis — 

ol.  santali,  1151 
ol.  terebinthinae,  1198 
pareira,  1198 
potassii  chloras,  1294 
salol,  1404 
taxus,  1582 
tinct.  henzoini,  1608 
uva  ursi,  1680 
verbascum,  1695 
Cysts,  iodum,  892 
acid,  chromic.,  49 
argentii  nitras,  284 

Deafness,  aether,  134 

creosotum,  549 
boldus,  348 
curcas,  568 
ol.  cajuputi,  1115 
pilocarpus,  1232 
Debility,  alcohol,  154 
aqua,  241 

aqua  camphorae,  255 
caffea,  364 

cocainae  hydrochlor.,  510 
ferrum,  746 
phosphorus,  1219 
prunus  virginiana,  1320 
vin.  album,  1702 
vin.  ferri  amarum,  1706 
Delirium,  acetum,  14 
cannabis,  396 
piscidia,  1252 
zinci  acetas,  1720 
Maniacal,  apomorphina,  236 
Delirium  tremens,  aether,  351 
alcohol,  155 
ammonii  bromid.,  182 
anthemis,  216 
apomorph.  hydrochlor.,  236 
caffea,  364 

camphora  monobromata,  392 
cannabis,  395,  396 
capsicum,  405 
chloral,  456 
digitalis,  586 
humulus,  818 
hyoscyamus,  856 
imperatoria,  865 
moschus,  1061 
opium,  1179 
paraldehyde,  1196 
potassii  bromid.,  1285 
sinapis,  1447 
strychnina,  1530 
sumbul,  1545 
tr.  chloroformi  c.,  1615 
tr.  valerianae,  1540 
trimethylcarbinol,  201 
valeriana,  1682 
vin.  album,  1702 
zinci  oxid.,  1727 
Dementia,  hyoscyamus,  855 
Dentition,  alcohol,  155 
crocus,  556 

Diabetes,  acid,  arsenos.,  30 
acid,  carbolic.,  44 
acid,  lactic.,  71 
acid,  nitric,  dil.,  76 
acid,  phosphoric.,  86 
acid,  salicylic.,  95 
alumen,  171 
ammonii  carbonas,  184 
ammonii  chlorid.,  187 
ammonii  phosphas,  191 
amygdala,  195 
aqua,  245 

aqua  hydrogenii  dioxid.,  262, 
263 

aquae  minerales,  273,  274 
belladonna,  331 


INDEX  OF  THERAPEUTICS. 


1875 


Diabetes — 

cerevisire  fermentum,  437 

coca,  504 

codeina,  516 

creosotum,  549 

ergota,  621 

ferrum,  747 

glyceriuum,  781 

kino,  912 

lac,  919 

liquor  calcis,  953 
morphina,  1055 
opium,  1181 
oxygenium,  1187 
pancreatinum,  1190 
pepsinum,  1205 
pilocarpus,  1232 
potassii  bicarb.,  1278 
potassii  bromidum,  1286 
potassii  permaugauas,  1312 
pulv.  ipecac,  et  opii,  1331 
pulv.  kino  c.,  1401 
salicinum,  1401 
sodii  bicarbonas,  1456 
sodii  chlorid.,  1468 
sodii  phosphas,  1478 
strychnina,  1530 
valeriana,  1683 

Diabetes  insipidus,  acid,  nitric, 
dil.,  76 

cantharis,  399 
creosotum,  549 
equisetum,  615 
ergota,  621 

ferri  sulphas  exsiccata,  742 
liq.  calcis,  953 
liq.  ferri  chloridi,  960 
valeriana,  1683 
zinci  oxidum,  1728 
zinci  valerianas,  1733 
V.  Polyuria,  Hydruria. 

Diarrhcea,  acacia,  8 
acetum,  14 
acid,  arsenos,  30 
acid  lactic.,  71 
acid  sulphuric.,  102 
acid,  sulphuric,  aromat.,  103 
acid,  tannic.,  109 
adeps,  125 
agaricus  albus,  144 
agrimonia,  146 
albumen,  147 
alisma,  158 
alnus,  161 
alumen,  171 
aluminii  hydras,  175 
anthemis,  216 
aqua,  245 

aqua  cinnamomi,  259 
aqua  minerales,  273,  274 
argenti  nitras,  282 
atropina,  309 
balsam,  peruvian.,  320 
belse  fructus,  327 
benzoinum,  335 
berberis,  337 

bismuthi  subcarbonas,  342 
bismuthi  subnitras,  346 
bismuthi  tannas,  347 
bolus,  349 
bursa  pastoris,  514 
caffea,  363,  365 
calcii  carb.  prsecip.,  370 
calumba,  379 
cantharis,  401 
carbo  ligni,  409 
cassia  fistula,  420 
catechu,  428 
cera,  432 

cerevisise  fermentum,  438 
cetaceum,  440 


Diarrhcea — 
cetraria,  441 
chimaphila,  448 
chondrus,  473 
cinnamomum,  501 
Comptonia,  526 
confectio  opii,  528 
coto,  1078 

creta  prseparata,  554 

cupri  arsenias,  564 

cupri  sulphas,  563 

cydonium.  573 

decoctum  litematoxyli,  578 

decoctum  hordei,  578 

decoctum  quercus,  578 

diospyros,  588 

epiphegus,  614 

equisetum,  615 

erytlirophlceum,  625 

extract,  belse  liq.,  652 

extract,  rubi  fl.,  700 

farina  tritici,  714 

ferri  et  ammonii  sulphas,  724 

ferri  salicylas,  740 

ferri  sulphas,  742 

ferrum,  747 

galbanum,  762 

galla,  766 

garcinia,  766 

gaultheria,  767 

geranium,  775 

geum,  776 

glycyrrhiza,  787 

gnaphalium,  789 

granatum,  794 

hsematoxylon,  804 

hedeoma,  806 

helianthemum,  807 

heuchera,  812 

hydrarg.  c.  creta,  848 

hydrastis,  850 

hypericum,  858 

hysterionica  Baylahuen,  796 

infus.  anthemidis,  868 

infus.  aurantii  c.,  868 

infus.  catechu,  869 

ipecacuanha,  898 

iris  florentina,  901 

juglans,  905 

kino,  912 

koumys,  922 

krameria,  913 

lac,  919 

lini  farina,  946 

liquidambar,  947 

liquor  calcis,  953 

liquor  ferri  nitratis,  964 

liquor  ferri  subsulphatis,  966 

lythrum,  1003 

magnesia,  1006 

maltum,  1014 

matico,  1025 

mentha  piperita,  1033 

mistura  cretae,  1042 

mistura  rhei  et  sodae,  1045 

monarda,  1046 

monesia,  1047 

mucilago  acaciae,  1062 

mucilago  ulmi,  1063 

myrobalanus,  1067 

naphthalinum,  1072 

nymphae,  1088 

cenothera,  1088 

ol.  ricini,  1146 

ol.  santali,  1185 

ol.  theobromae,  1162 

ol.  thymi,  1163 

opium,  1180 

pancreatinum,  1190 

physostigminae  salicyl.,  1224 

pil.  opii,  1244 


I Diarrhcea — 

pil.  plumbi  c.  opio,  1245 
pix  burgundica,  1253 
plumbi  acetas,  1261 
prinos,  1319 
propolis,  432 
psoralea,  1321 
pulv.  aromaticus,  1327 
pulv.  catechu  c.,  1328 
pulv.  cretae  aromat.,  1328 
pulv.  cretae  aromat.  c.  opio, 
1328 

pulv.  ipecac,  c.,  1331 

pulv.  kino  c.,  1331 

pulv.  opii  c.,  1332 

pulv.  rhei  c.,  1332 

quassia,  1340 

rheum,  1380 

rubus,  1387 

salep,  1399 

sanicula,  1411 

sinapis,  1448 

sodii  nitras,  1476 

sodii  phosphas,  1478 

sorb  us,  1491 

spiraea,  1494 

spirit,  cinnamomi,  1503 

strychnina,  1531 

styracol,  800 

suppos.  plumbi  c.,  1550 

symphytum,  1551 

syr.  krameriae,  1564 

syr.  rhei,  1567 

syr.  rhei  aromat.,  1568 

syr.  rubi,  1568 

talc,  987 

thea,  1595 

tilia,  1602 

tr.  benzoini,  1608 

tr.  catechu  c.,  1613 

tr.  ferri  chloridi,  1620 

tr.  kino,  1625 

tr.  krameriae,  1626 

trochisci  acid,  tannic.,  1650 

trochisci  cretae,  1652 

urtica,  1677 

uva  ursi,  1680 

verbascum,  1695 

vin.  ipecacuanhae,  1706 

zinci  acetas,  1720 

zinci  oxid.,  1727 

zingiber,  1737 

Fatty,  pancreatic  emulsion, 
1190 

Diphtheria,  acetum,  14 
acid,  boric.,  36 
acid,  carbolic.,  42 
acid,  citric.,  52 
acid,  lactic.,  71 
acid,  hydrochlor.,  63 
acid,  hydrochlor.  dil.,  63 
acid,  oxalic.,  82 
acid,  salicylic.,  94 
acid,  tartaric.,  112 
acid,  sulphuros.,  106 
alcohol,  154 
alumen,  172 
antipyrina,  230 
aqua,  241 
aqua  chlori,  258 
aqua  hydrogen,  diox.,  263 
argenti  nitras,  282 
bromum,  353 
calcium  sulphide,  385 
camphor  (phenol),  390 
capsicum,  405 
carica  papaya,  1206 
cerevisiae  fermentum,  438 
chinolin,  451 
chloral,  458 

cocainae  hydrochlor.,  507 


1876 


INDEX  OF  THERAPEUTICS. 


Diphtheria — 
creolinum,  551 
cubeba,  558 
cupri  sulphas,  563 
eucalyptus,  628 
ferri  salicylas,  740 
ferrum,  748 
guaiaci  resina,  798 
hydrargyrum,  845 
hydrarg.  c.hlor.  corros.,  823 
hydrarg.  cyanid.,832 
hyssopus,  859 
inula,  877 
iodoformum,  881 
iodum,  891 
juglans,  905 

liq.  ammonii  acetatis,  949 
liq.  calcis,  953 
liq.  ferri  chloridi,  960 
liq.  potassae,  978 
liq.  sodae  chlorat.,  985 
lithii  carbonas,  992 
mel  rosae,  1030 
monesia,  1047 
ol.  terebinthinae,  1159 
ol.  thymi,  1163 
papayotin,  1206 
petroleum,  1211 
potassii  bromidum,  1286 
potassii  chloras,  1293 
potassii  permanganas,  1312 
quininae  sulphas,  1359 
resorcin,  1373 
salicinum,  1401 
salol,  1404 
serpentaria,  1444 
sodii  benzoas,  1453 
sodii  bicarbouas,  1457 
sodii  chlorid.,  1468 
sodii  hyposulphis,  1472 
sodii  sulpliocarbolas,  1487 
sulphur,  1543 
tr.  ferri  chloridi,  1620 
trypsine,  1191 
zinci  sulphas,  1731 
Disinfection,  acid,  nitricum,  75 
acid,  sulphuros.,  106 
calx  chlorata,  385 
hydrarg.  biniod.  rubr.,  835 
liq.  zinci  chlorid.,  988 
Dislocations,  antimon.  et.  po- 
tass. tart.,  221 
aether,  135 
alcohol,  156 
aqua,  242,  245 
conium,  533 
tabacum,  1576 
Dropsy,  acet.  scilhe,  16 
actinomeris,  808 
adeps,  125 

adonis  vern.,  128,  810 
alkekengi,  159 
allium,  160 
alnus  viridis,  161 
anilinum,  214 

antimon.  et.  potass,  tart.,  221 

apocynum,  234 

aqua,  244,  246 

arenaria  rubra,  615 

argemone,  277 

armoracia,  288 

belladonna,  331 

berberis,  337 

bryonia,  353 

caffea,  365 

cahinca,  367 

calcii  sulphis,  376 

callitriche,  377 

cambogia,  386 

cantharis.  399,  400 

carota,  415 


Dropsy — 

chelidonium,  446 
chimaphila,  448 
clematis,  502 
cocainae  hydrochlor.,  511 
cochlearia,  514 
colchicum,  519 
Collinsonia,  520 
colocynthis,  525 
convallaria,  535 
convallar.  polygonatum,  536 
copaiba,  540 
curcas,  568 
cyclamen,  572 
decoct,  scoparii,  573 
digitalis,  584,  586 
diuretin,  1597 
dracontium,  589 
elaterinum,  595 
equisetum,  615 
erodium  cicutarium,  775 
eryngium,  624 
erythrophloeum,  625 
euphorbium,  634 
ferrum,  747 
frangula,  756 
galium,  764 
geranium,  775 
gratiola,  794 
helleborus,  810 
hydrarg.  chlor.  mite,  829 
iberis,  514 
ilex,  862 
imperatoria,  865 
infusum  digitalis,  870 
iodoformum,  881 
iodum,  892 
jalapa,  904 
juniperus,  907 
leonurus,  934 
levisticum,  936 
linaria,  938 

liq.  ammonii  acet.,  949 
lulfa  operculata,  525 
medeola,  1027 
ol.  juniperi,  1127 
ol.  tiglii,  1165 
ononis  spinosa,  788 
pilocarpus,  1231 
pil.  cambogiae  c.,  1241 
pil.  colocynthidis  c.,  1242 
pil.  scammonii  c.,  1246 
potassii  acetas,  1276 
potassii  bitartras,  1282 
potassii  carb.,  1290 
potassii  chloras,  1293 
potassii  iodid.,  1306 
potassii  nitras.  1309 
pulv.  elaterii  c.,  1330 
pulv.  jalapae  c.,  1331 
pulv.  scammonii  c.,  1332, 1333 
quillaja,  1342 
resina  jalapse,  1368 
resina  scammonii,  1370 
rhamnus  catharticus,  1374 
saccharum  lactis,  1398 
scilla,  1431 
scoparius,  1432 
sedum,  1435 
sinapis,  1447 
sodii  acetas,  1451 
sparteina,  1432 
spilanthes,  1335 
spiraea,  1494 

spirit,  aether,  nitros.,  1499 
spirit,  armoraciae  c.,  1501 
spirit,  juniperi,  1505 
spirit,  juniperi  c.,  1505 
staphysagria,  1513 
strophanthus,  1524 
tanacetum,  1579 


Dropsy— 

terpini  hydras,  1588 
teucrium,  1589 
thuja,  1599 
tr.  digitalis,  1617 
tr.  scillae,  1637 
ung.  iodi,  1669 
urea,  1674 
urtica,  1677 
uva  ursi,  1680 
Drowsiness,  acetum,  14 
Dysentery,  acacia,  8 
acetum,  14 
acid,  carbolic.,  43 
acid,  nitric,  dil.,  75,  76 
acid,  salicyl.,  94,  95 
acid,  tannic.,  109 
aconitum,  121 
adeps,  125 
ailanthus,  146 
alisma,  158 
althaea,  169 
alumen,  171 
aluminii  sulph.,  177 
angustura,  211 
aqua,  243,  245,  246 
aqua  chlori,  258 
aquae  minerales,  274 
argenti  nitras,  282 
arnica,  291 

balsam,  peruvian.,  320 
baptisia,  322 
batiator,  399 
belae  fructus,  327 
benzoinum,  335 
berberis,  337 
bismuthi  subnitras,  346 
bolus,  349 
bursa  pastoris.  514 
buttermilk,  922 
calumba,  379 
cannabis,  396 
cantharis,  409 
carbo  ligni,  408 
cascarilla,  418 
cassia  fistula,  419 
ceanothus,  429 
cera  alba,  432 
cerevisiae  fermentum,  438 
cetraria,  441 
chloral,  458 
chondrus,  473 
copaiba,  540 
creolinum,  551 
cupri  sulphas,  563 
decoetum  hordei,  578 
emulsum  amygdalae,  611 
equisetum,  615 
ergota,  621 
erythrophloeum,  625 
ext.  belae  liq.,  652 
ferrum,  747 
garcinia,  766 
glycerina,  781 
gossypii  semina,  790 
hedysarum,  899 
hydrarg.  chlor.  corros.,  824 
hydrarg.  chlor.  mite,  330 
iodum,  891 
ipecacuanha,  897 
ixora,  899 
kino,  912 
krameria,  913 
lac.  919,  922 
linum,  946 
liquidambar,  947 
liquor  calcis,  953 
liquor  ferri  chloridi,  960 
ly  thrum,  1003 
magnesii  sulphas,  1010 
maltum,  1014 


INDEX  OF  THERAPEUTICS. 


1877 


Dysentery— 
matico,  1025 
mueilago  acaciae,  1062 
mueilago  amyli,  1062 
mueilago  cydonii,  1063 
mueilago  sassafras  medull., 
1063 

myrica,  1065 
myrobalanus,  1067 
myrtus,  1070 
narcissus,  1076 
nymphaea,  1088 
ol.  olivse,  1141 
ol.  sesami,  1154 
ol.  theobromatis,  1162 
ol.  tiglii,  1165 
opium,  1180 

physostigminae  salicyl.,  1224 
pichurim,  1079 
pil.  plumbi  c.  opio.  1245 
plumbi  acetas,  12(51 
potassii  cbloras,  1294 
quercus,  1341 
quininae  sulphas,  1357 
rheum,  1380 
sanicula,  1411 
sassafras  medulla,  1427 
sempervivum  teetorum,  1435 
sodii  nitras,  1475 
sodii  sulphas,  1484 
statice,  1515 
strychnina,  1531 
suppositor.  acid,  carbolic.,  1549  ! 
suppositor.  acid,  tannic.,  1549 
suppositor.  morphinae,  1550 
suppositor.  plumbi  c.,  1550 
Symphytum,  1551 
terebinthina,  1587 
thuja,  1599 
tinet.  benzoini,  1608 
urtica,  1677 
verbascum,  1695 
viola,  1712 
zinci  oxidum,  1727 
zinci  sulphas,  1731 
Dysmenorrhcea,  achillea,  17 
acidum  arsenosum,  30 
acid,  carbonic.,  47 
acid,  valerianic.,  114 
aether,  135 

ammonii  chlorid.,  187 
amyl  nitris,  198 
antipyrinum,  231,  232 
aqua,  245,  246 
aqua  camphorae,  255 
aqua  menthae  piperit.,  264 
argenti  nitras,  282 
cantharis,  400 
carbonei  tetrachlorid.,  411 
carota,  415 
castor,  422 
cataria,  425 
chloral,  458 
chloral  butylic.,  460 
chloroformum.  469 
cimicifuga,  479 
cocaina,  509 
cotula,  546 
crocus,  556 
fraxinus,  757 

gossypii  radicis  cortex,  790 
guaiaci  resina,  798 
hedeoma,  80(5 

hydrarg.  chlor.  mite,  829,  830 

hydrastis,  850 

liq.  ammonii  acet.,  949 

mentha  piperita,  1033 

ol.  cajuputi,  1115 

ol.  rutae,  1120 

ol.  sabinte,  1120 

opium,  1173 


D ysmenorrhce  a — 
origanum,  1184 
parthenium,  1199 
petroselinum,  1213 
primula,  1318 
pulsatilla,  1323 
ruta,  1390 
sabina,  1392 
sinapis,  1448 
sodii  chlorid.,  1468 
sodium  salicylas,  1481 
spirit,  aetheris  c.,  1495 
spongia,  1510 
stramonium,  1518 
strychnina,  1530 
tr.  guaiaci,  1622 
tr.  guaiaci  ammon.,  1622 
tr.  serpentarife,  1638 
tr.  stramonii,  1638 
tr.  zingiberis,  1642 
valeriana,  1683 
viburnum,  1697 
viburnum  opulus,  1697 
viola,  1712 

Dyspepsia,  absinthium,  5 
acid,  boric.,  36 
acid,  carbolic.,  43 
acid,  gallic.,  56 
acid,  hydrochloric.,  63 
acid,  lactic.,  71 
acid,  nitroliydrochloric.  dil., 
78 

acid,  phosphoric.,  86 

acid,  sulphuric,  aromat.,  103 

acid,  sulphuros.,  106 

acid,  tannic.,  109 

ailanthus,  146 

alcohol  methylic.,  157 

aletris,  158 

aluminii  hydras,  175 

ammonii  carbonas,  184 

ammonii  chlorid.,  187 

angustura,  211 

anthemis,  216 

apocynum,  234 

aqua  ammonite,  252 

aqua  fceniculi,  261 

aqua  hydrogenii  diox.,  263 

aquae  minerales,  271,  272,  273 

argenti  nitras,  282 

argenti  oxidum,  286 

armoracia,  288 

asclepias,  300 

aurantii  cortex,  312 

beberiae  sulphas,  326 

benzinum,  334 

berberis,  337 

bismuthi  subnitr.,  346 

boldus,  348 

buchu,  356 

caffea,  363 

calamus,  367 

calcii  chlorid.,  372 

calumba,  379 

canella,  393 

cannabis,  396 

capsicum,  405 

carbo  ligni,  408 

carduus  ben ed ictus,  414 

carthamus,  415 

cascarilla,  418 

chamaelirium,  442 

chirata,  452 

coriandrum,  542 

coruus  florida,  544 

crocus,  556 

eu  pa  tori  urn,  631 

ext.  belae  liq.,  652 

fel  bovis,  71 6 

ferrum,  734,  747 

fumaria,  759 


Dyspepsia — 
galanga,  761 
gentiana,  773 
geum,  776 
gleclioma,  778 
hedeoma,  806 
heracleum,  812 
humulus,  818 
hydrargyrum,  844 
hydrastis,  850 
hyssopus,  859 
imperatoria,  865 
infus.  casparice,  870 
infus.  pruni  Virginian  ae,  872 
ingluvin,  1207 
inula,  877 
ipecacuanha,  898 
kephir,  923 
laburnum,  915 
leonurus,  934 
levisticum,  936 
liquor  calcis,  953 
liquor  magnesite  carb.,  971 
liquor  potassse,  978 
liquor  potassse  effervescens, 
979 

magnesia,  1006 

maltum,  1013 

marrubium,  1020 

mentha  piperita,  1033 

menyanthes,  1036 

monesia,  1047 

myristica,  1066 

myrrha,  1069 

nectandra,  1078 

ol.  chenopodii,  1118 

oxygenium,  1187 

pancreatinum,  1190 

parthenium,  1199 

pepsinum,  1205 

pichurim,  1079 

potassa,  1271 

potassa  sulphurata,  1274 

potassii  carb.,  1290 

primula,  1318 

psoralea,  1321 

ptelea,  1322 

pulv.  aromaticus,  1327 

pulv.  kino  comp.,  1331 

pulv.  rhei  comp.,  1332 

quassia,  1340 

rumex,  1388 

sabbatia,  1391 

saccharinum,  1394 

salix,  1402 

salol,  1404 

sanguinaria,  1409 

sanguis,  1410 

sarracenia,  1421 

sinapis,  1447 

sodii  bicarb.,  1456 

sodii  chlorid.,  1468 

sodii  hyposulph.,  1472 

sodii  sulphocarbolas,  1487 

spirit,  ammon.  aromat.,  1501 

taraxacum,  1581 

thea,  1595 

til  it),  1602 

tinct.  calumbte,  1610 
tinct.  cascarillce,  1612 
tinct.  gentiana)  c.,  1621 
tinct.  lavandulte  c.,  1627 
tinct.  nucis  vomicae,  1629 
trochisci  sodii  bicarb.,  1655 
vin.  ipecacuanhae,  1706 
wintera,  1715 
zedoaria,  1719 
zinci  sulphas,  1731 
Dysphagia,  acid,  hydrocyan,  dil., 
66 

camphora,  390 


1878 


INDEX  OF  THERAPEUTICS. 


Dysphagia,  ol.  cajuputi,  1115 
Dyspncea,  aqua,  245 

aqua  hydrogen.  diox.,  263 
ol.  cajuputi,  1115 
Dysury,  alkekengi,  159 
althaea,  169 
bursa  pastoris,  514 
caffea,  365 
cantharis,  399 
glycyrrhiza,  787 
mesembryanthemum,  357 
ol.  juniperi,  1127 
uva  ursi,  1680 

EAR,  diseases  of,  cocaina,  508 
saccharinum,  1394 
Noises  in,  amyl  nitris,  199 
suppuration  of,  abrus,  2 
Earache,  aether,  134 
allium,  160 
antbemis,  216 
antipyrina,  231 
aqua,  246 

atropinae  sulph.,  308 
cocaina,  508 
delphinine,  1514 
glycerina,  781 
menthol,  1035 
ol.  cajuputi,  1115 
ol.  caryophylli,  1118 
ol.  olivae,  1141 
ol.  tbymi,  1163 
opium,  1181 
sinapis,  1448 

Ecchymoses.  V.  Contusion. 
Eclampsia.  V.  Convulsion. 
Ectropion,  acid,  sulphuric.,  102 
Eczema,  acid,  arsenos.,  28 
acid,  boric,  36 
acid,  salicylic.,  95 
adeps  lanae  hydrosus,  126 
aqua  creosoti,  259 
balsam,  peruvian.,  320 
berberis,  337 
bismutbi  subnitras,  346 
cannabis,  395 
carica  papay.,  1206 
collodium  flexile,  522 
fumaria,  759 
gelatina,  769 

glycerinum  acid,  tannici,  783 

gynocardia,  803 

hamamelis,  805 

hydrocotyle,  851 

ichthyol,  861 

iodoform um,  882 

liquor  calcis,  953 

liquor  potass,  arsen.,  980 

lycopodium,  1002 

menthol,  1035 

myrtus,  1070 

naphtol,  1076 

ol.  morrhuae,  1135 

ol.  thy  mi,  1163 

paraffinum,  1194 

pix  liquida,  1256 

plumbi  acetas,  1261 

potassii  iodidum,  1306 

sapo,  1418 

sulphur,  1542 

ung.  hydrarg.  aramon.,  1665 
ung.  picis  liquida1,  1669 
ung.  sulphuris  iodidi,  1672 
ung.  zinci  oxidi,  1673 
viola,  1712 
zinc,  oleate  of,  1728 
zinci  sulphas,  1731 
Elephantiasis,  carbonei  bisul- 
phidum,  410 

Emphysema  of  lungs,  strych- 
nina,  1531 


Empyema,  creolinum,  551 
iodum,  892 

quininae  sulphas,  1360 
Endocarditis,  hydrarg.  cblor. 
mite,  828 

Entropion,  acid,  sulphuric,  dil., 
102 

Enuresis,  cantharis,  400 
Ephelis  (tan),  armoracia,  288 
chrysarobinum,  476 
I Epilepsy,  absinth,  vulgar.,  5 
acid,  hydrobrom.,  59 
aethyl  bromid.,  142 
alcohol,  155 
alisma,  158 
ammonii  bromid.,  182 
amyl  nitras,  197,  198 
anilina,  213 

antimon.  et  potass,  tart.,  221 
antipyrinum,  230 
apomorpbina,  236 
aqua,  242 

aqua  ammonise,  252 
aqua  hydrogen,  dioxid.,  263 
argenti  nitras,  282 
atropina,  308 
aurum,  315 
belladonna,  330 
bromal,  353 
bryonia,  354 
calcii  bromidum,  369 
campbora  monobromata,  392 
cannabis,  395 
chloral,  457 
coca,  504 
conium,  533 
convallaria,  535 
cotyledon,  548 
cupri  acetas,  560 
cuprum  ammoniatum,  567 
curare,  567 
cypripedium,  574 
digitalis,  586 
ferrum,  746,  747 
fungus  muscarius,  760 
galium,  764 
beracleum,  812 
hyoscyamus,  855,  856 
indigo,  866 
lac,  920 
lappa,  929 

lithii  bromidum,  990 
morphina,  1055 
narcissus,  1076 
niccoli  bromid.,  1080 
oleander,  1096 

oleum  animale  aethereum, 
1109 

oleum  valerianae,  1166 
opium,  1179 
paeonia,  1188 
phosphorus,  1219 
picrotoxin,  1228 
plumbi  acetas,  1261 
potassii  bromid.,  1285 
potassii  chlorid.,  1294 
potassium  nitrite,  1309 
quininae  valerianas,  1363 
Scutellaria,  1434 
sedum,  1435 
selinum,  1436 
sodii  boras,  1460 
sodii  bromidum,  1461 
sodii  cbloridum,  1468 
sodii  nitris,  1476 
stramonium,  1518 
strontium,  1520 
strychnina,  1530 
taxus,  1582 
valeriana,  1682 
veratrum  viride,  1693 


Epilepsy — 

viscum,  1713 
zinci  bromidum,  1721 
zinci  cyanidum,  1735 
zinci  oxidum,  1727 
Epistaxis,  acid,  citric.,  52 
acid,  gallic.,  55 
aqua,  246 
catechu,  428 

cocainae  hydrochlor.,  507,  510 
liquor  ferri  chloridi,  960 
liq.  ferri  subsulpbatis,  966 
ol.  terebinthinae.  1158 
sodii  chlorid. , 1467 
Epithelioma,  acid,  lactic.,  71 
acid,  oxalic.,  82 
benzene,  333 

euphorbia  beterodoxa,  633 
oxalis,  1185 
plumbi  nitras,  1265 
potassii  cbloras,  1294 
pyrogallol,  1336 
spirit,  aether,  nitrosi,  1499 
urtica,  1677 
Erections,  aqua,  243 
camphora,  390 
digitalis,  586 
humulus,  819 
potassii  bromid.,  1287 
Erotic  excitement,  conium,  533 
potass,  bromid.,  1287 
Erysipelas,  acid,  boric.,  36 
acid,  carbolic.,  42 
aconitum,  121 
alcohol,  154 
ammonii  carbonas,  184 
amylum,  206 
argenti  nitras,  284 
bolus,  349 
calcii  iodidum,  374 
camphor  (carbolized),  390 
cantharis,  400 
collodium  flexile,  522 
creosotum,  549 
creta  preparata,  554 
farina  tritici,  714 
ferri  salicylas,  740 
ferri  sulphas,  742 
ferrum,  748 
glycerin,  amyli,  784 
glycerin,  vitelli,  786 
gossypium,  791 
gutta-percha,  802 
hydrargyrum,  845 
iodoformum,  882 
iodum,  533 
lini  farina,  946 
liniment,  terebinthinae,  944 
liquor  sodii  silicatis,  987 
lycopodium,  1002 
mucilago  amyli,  1062 
mucilago  ulmi,  1063 
ol.  terebinthinae,  1160 
paraffinum,  1194 
passiflora,  1200 
plumbi  carbonas,  1263 
quininae  sulphas,  1358 
sambucus,  1407 
sodii  byposulpbis,  1472 
tr.  ferri  chloridi,  1620 
ung.  hydrargyri,  1665 
ung.  terebinthinae,  1672 
vitellus  ovi,  1714 
zinci  acetas,  1720 
Erythema,  acid,  boric.,  36 
albumen  ovi,  147 
amylum,  206 

antimon.  et  potass,  tart.,  220 
creta  praeparata,  554 
farina  tritici,  714 
glycerit.  amyli,  784 


INDEX  OF  THERAPEUTICS. 


1879 


Erythema — 

glycerit.  vitelli,  786 
lac,  921 

liniment,  terebinthinae,  943 
plumbi  carbonas,  1263 
nng.  terebintliime,  1672 
Evulsion  of  nails,  aqua,  243 
Excoriations,  acacia,  8 
albumen,  147 
alcohol,  154,  155 
cerat.  plumbi  subacetat.,  436 
gossypium,  791 
hypericum,  858 
liquor  plumbi  subacetatis,  974 
oleum  olivae,  1141 
oleum  theobromae,  1162 
paraffinum,  1194 
pix  liquida,  1256 
plumbi  acetas,  1261 
sambucus,  1407 
tinct.  aloes,  1605 
ung.  plumbi  acetatis,  1670 
Exhaustion,  heat,  atropinae 
sulph.,  309 

Exophthalmic  goitre,  amyl 
nitras,  199 

calcii  bromidum,  369 
Eyelids,  deformed,  acid,  sul- 
phuric., 102 

Granular,  acid,  boric.,  35 
cupri  sulphas,  563 
saccharum,  1397 

Eyes,  diseases  of,  acid,  boric.,  35 
acid,  salicylic.,  94 
antipyrinum,  231  s 
aqua,  246 
argenti  nitras,  283 
atropinae  sulph.,  309 
belladonna,  330 
cantharis,  401 

cocaina  hydrochlor.,  506,  507 

copaiba,  540 

duboisia,  857 

ergota,  622 

hamamelis,  805 

hydrarg.  iod.  rubr.,  835 

hydrarg.  oxid.  flavum,  836 

hydrarg.  oxid.  rubrum,  838 

iodoformum,  882 

iodolum,  886 

lac,  921 

olibanum,  1167 
opium,  1181 
paraffinum,  1194 
physostigma,  1222 
plumbi  acetas,  1261 
quininae  sulph.,  1359 
saccharum,  1397 
santoninum,  1416 
sarcocolla,  1420 
ung.  hydrarg.  oxid.  flavi,  1667 
ung.  hydrarg.  oxid.  rubri, 
1668 

Examination  of,  cocainae  hy- 
drochor.,  507 

Exploration  of,  belladonna, 
330 

Lime  in,  acetum,  14 

Spasm  of,  amyl  nitris,  198 

1 ^AINTING,  acetum,  14 
arnmonii  carb.,  184 
amyl  nitris,  198 
aqua  ammoniac,  252 
cubeba,  558 
sinapis,  1448 

False  membrane,  cubeba,  558 
liquor  calcis,  953 
lithii  carbonas,  992 
mel,  1028 
sodii  nitras,  1474 


Favus,  acid,  acetic.,  22 
acid,  salicylic.,  95 
acid,  sulphuros.,  105 
calx,  381 
iodum,  891 
ol.  morrhuae,  1135 
phytolacca,  1226 
sodii  hyposulpliis,  1472 
[ Felon,  collodion  flexile,  522 
copal  varnish,  540 
Fermentation,  sodii  sulphis, 

1 185 

Fetid  sweating,  acid,  salicylic., 
95 

olsatum  hydrargyri,  1099 
pilocarpus,  1233 
potassi  permang.,  1312 
Fetor,  acid,  boric.,  36 
acid,  lactic.,  71 
acid,  salicylic.,  94,  95 
amyl  nitris,  199 
aqua  chlori,  258 
calcii  iodidum,  374 
calx  clilorata,  385 
carbo  ligni,  409 
chloral,  458 
creolinum,  551 
eucalyptus,  628 
ficus,  752 

hydrarg.  chlor.  corros.,  825 
liquor  calcis  clilorinatae,  954 
liquor  sodae  chloratae,  985 
liquor  zinci  cliloridi,  988 
ol.  tliymi,  1163 
pix  liquida,  1256 
plumbi  nitras,  1264 
potassii  permanganas,  1312 
quillaja,  1343 
saccharum,  1397 
sodii  bisulpliis,  1457 
sodii  liyposulphis,  1472 
V.  Smells. 

Of  breath,  catechu,  428 
ol.  thymi,  1163 
pix  liquida,  1256 
potassii  chloras,  1294 
potassii  permanganas,  1312 
Of  feet,  acid,  salicylic.,  95 
acid,  tartaric.,  112 
calx  chlorinata,  385 
chloral,  458 
Fever,  acacia,  8 
acetanilid,  9 
acetum,  14 
acid,  citric.,  52 
acid,  nitric.,  75 
aconitum,  121 
alcohol,  154 
amylum,  206 

antimon.  et  potassae  tart.,  220 
antipyrina,  229 
antitliermin,  232 
aqua,  240,  243,  245 
asclepias,  300 
benzanilid,  11 
borago,  350 
buttermilk,  922 
cantharis,  399 
* Collinsonia,  520 
corallorrhiza,  541 
crocus,  556 
decoctum  hordei,  578 
digitalis,  585 
euphorin,  1675 
extractum  carnis,  658 
ferrum,  748 
gelsemium,  771 
glycerinum,  781,  782 
glycyrrhiza,  787 
liordeum,  818 
hydrargyrum,  844 


Fever — 

iodopyriu,  232 
lac,  9i9 

liquor  arnmonii  acetatis,  948 
liquor  potassii  citratis,  980 
magnesii  sulphas,  1010 
mucilago  acaciae,  1062 
oleum  ricini,  1146 
opium,  1178 
phenacetinum,  1215 
potassii  acetas,  1276 
potassii  bitartras,  1282 
potassii  chloras,  1293 
potassii  citras,  1295 
potassii  nitras,  1309 
potassii  et  sodii  tartras,  1299 
pulvis  antimonialis,  1327 
pulvis  effervesceus,  1329 
pulvis  effervesc.  aperiens, 
1329 

pulvis  ipecac,  et  opii,  1331 
quinidinae  sulph.,  1344 
quininae  sulph.,  1358 
resorcinum,  1372 
sassafras  medulla,  1427 
sodae  citro  - tart,  effervesc., 
1469 

sodii  hyposulpliis,  1472 
spirit,  aether,  nitros.,  1499 
tamarindus,  1578 
thallinae  sulphas,  1590 
thallinum,  1590 
triosteum,  1647 
veratrum  viride,  1693 
vinum  antimonii,  1703 
vinum  ipecacuanha?,  1706 
Hay,  acid,  salicylic.,  94 
antipyrina,  231 
atropime  sulph.,  309 
belladonna,  330 
cocaina  hydrochlor.,  507 
quininae  sulphas,  1357 
Hectic,  acetanilid,  10 
alcohol,  154 
beberiae  sulphas,  326 
cantharis,  399 
mist,  ferri  c.,  1043 
pulv.  kino  c.,  1331 
quininae  sulphas,  1359 
Intermittent,  acid,  arsenos., 
28 

acid,  nitric.  dil„  75 
acid,  salicylic.,  93 
Adan  sonia,  123 
agrimonia,  146 
alkekengi,  159 
alnus,  161 
alstonia,  167 
alumen,  171 
ambrosia,  178 
arnmonii  chloridum,  186 
arnmonii  picricum,  87 
amyl  nitris,  198,  199 
angelica,  210 
angustura,  211 
anthemis,  216 
antipyrina,  229,  230 
apocynum,  234 
aqua,  240 

beberiae  sulphas,  326 
benzoinum  odorif.,  932 
betula,  338 
bursa  pastoris,  514 
caffea,  364 
capsicum,  405 
chelidonium,  446 
chimaphila,  448 
chinoidinum,  449 
chinolin,  451 

cinchonidin.  hydrobrom.,  495 
cinchonidin.  salicyl.,  495 


1880  INDEX  OF  THERAPEUTICS . 


Fever — 

cinckonidin.  sulph.,  495 
cinchoninae  sulphas,  498 
clematis,  502 
cocklearia,  514 
conium,  533 
convallaria,  535 
cornus  florida,  544 
corydalis,  545 
cupri  acetas,  561 
cupri  sulphas,  563 
erythrophloeum,  625 
eucalyptus,  628 
eupatorium,  631 
ferrum,  747 
fraxiuus,  757 
geurn,  776 
kippocastanum,  814 
hydrochinone,  1373 
iberis,  514 
ilex,  862 
imperatoria,  865 
iodum,  890 
ipecacuanha,  898 
liquor  potassii  arsenitis,  980 
magnesii  sulphas,  1010 
magnolia,  1012 
narcissus,  1076 
nectaudra,  1078 
ol.  chenopodii,  1118 
opium,  1178 
oxalis,  1185 
parthenium,  1199 
persica,  1207 
petroselinum,  1212 
pichurim,  1079 
piper,  1249 
piperin,  1251 
potassii  brornid.,  1286 
prinos,  1319 
quercus,  1341 
quinidinae  sulph.,  1344 
quininae  bisulphas,  1346 
quininae  hydrobromas,  1348 
quininae  hydrochloras,  1349 
quininae  sulphas,  1356 
rumex,  1388 
salicinum,  1401 
salix,  1402 
saponaria,  1420 
Scutellaria,  1434 
sedum,  1435 
sodii  arsenias,  1452 
sodii  chloridum.  1467 
sodii  hyposulphis,  1472 
Warburg’s  tincture,  1360 
xanthium  spinosum,  929 
Milk,  ol.  ricini,  1146 
Puerperal,  aconitum,  121 
alcohol,  154 
antipyrina,  229 
aqua  chlori,  258 
ferrum,  748 
iodoformum,  885 
ol.  terebinthinae,  1158 
quininae  sulphas,  1358 
tr.  ferri  chloridi,  1619 
Relapsing,  acid,  salicylic.,  93 
alcohol,  154 
digitalis,  585 

Remittent,  cinclionidinae  sul- 
phas, 495 

cinclioninae sulph.,  495 
hydrarg.  chlorid.  mite,  828 
ipecacuanha,  898 
magnesiae  sulphas,  1010 
opium,  1178 

quinidinae  sulphas.  1344 
quininae  sulphas,  1356 
Scarlet,  adeps,  125 
aqua,  240 


Fever — 

aqua  chlori,  258 
ferrum,  748 
quininae  sulphas,  1358 
Traumatic,  aconitum,  121 
ol.  ricini,  1146 
Typhoid,  acacia,  8 
acid,  carbolic.,  41 
acid,  hydrochlor.,  63 
acid,  salicylic.,  93 
acid,  sulphuric.,  102 
aconitum,  117 
aether,  136 
alcohol,  154 
ammonii  carbonas,  184 
antipyrina,  229 
aqua,  240,  243,  244,  245 
aqua  ammoniae,  252 
aquae  camphorae,  255 
aqua  chlori,  258 
baptisia,  322 
belladonna,  331 
bismutlii  salicyl.,  347 
bismuthi  subnit.,  346 
buttermilk,  922 
calfea,  364 
camphora,  389 
cantharis,  401 
carbonei  disulpliid.,  411 
chloral,  458 

cinchonid.  hydrobrom.,  496 
cinchonid.  salicyl.,  495 
cinchonid.  sulph.,  495 
contrayerva,  534 
creosotum,  549 
digitalis,  585 
ergota,  622 
eucalyptus,  628 
glycerinum,  781 
hydrargyrum,  844 
hydrarg.  chlorid.  mite,  828 
iodum.  390 
lac,  922 

liquor  ammonii  acet.,  949 
liquor  calcis,  953 
liquor  calcis  chlorinatae,  954 
liquor  sodae  chlorat.,  954 
magnesii  sulphas,  1010 
moschus,  1060 

mucilago  sassafras  med.,  1063 
naphtol,  1074 
ol.  terebinthinae,  1158 
opium,  1178 
pil.  opii,  1244 
plumbi  acetas,  1261 
potassii  chloras,  1293 
quininae  sulphas,  1358 
salipyrine,  1405 
salol,  1404 
serpentaria,  1444 
sodii  hyposulphis,  1472 
sodii  sulphas,  1484 
sodii  sulphocarbolas,  1487 
tephrosia,  1583 
vin.  album, 1702 
zinci  sulphas,  1731 
Typhus,  acid,  nitric,  dil.,  63,  75 
acid,  sulphuric.,  102 
aconitinum,  117 
alcohol,  154 
ambra  grisea,  178 
ammonii  carbonas,  184 
aqua,  240 

aqua  ammoniae,  252 
aqua  chlori,  258 
baptisia,  322 
caffe  a,  364 
calx  chlorata,  385 
camphora,  389 
cantharis,  401 
I extractum  earn  is,  658 


Fever — 

galega,  763 

liquor  ammonii  acetatis,  949 
liquor  calcis  chlorinatae,  954 
moschus,  1060 
ol.  terebinthinae,  1158 
opium,  1178 
quininae  sulphas,  1358 
serpentaria,  1444 
sodii  hyposulphis,  1472 
tinct.  serpentariae,  1638 
vin.  album,  1702 
Yellow,  cocainae  hydrochlor., 
510 

hydr.  chlorid. mite,  828 
ol.  terebinthinae,  1159 
quininae  sulphas,  1357 
sodii  hyposulphis,  1472 
Fevers,  eruptive,  alcohol,  154 
ammonii  carb.,  184 
ammonii  chlor.,  186 
aqua,  240,  244,  245 
carthamus,  415 
crocus,  556 

liq.  ammon.  acet.,  949 
moschus,  1060 
oleum  succini,  1156 
quininae  sulphas,  1358 
sodii  sulphocarbolas,  1487 
Fibrin,  solution  of,  aq.  am.,  252 
Fissure  of  anus,  cocaina  hydro- 
chlor., 508 
copaiba,  540 
glycerina,  781 
krameria,  913 
monesia,  1047 
tinct.  aloes,  1605 
tinct.  benzoini,  1608 
tinct.  catechu  c.,  1613 
ung.  zinci  oxidi,  1673 
zinci  oxidum,  1728 
Of  nipples,  etc.,  bismuthi  sub- 
nitras,  346 
copaiba,  540 
glycerinum,  781 
krameria,  914 
monesia,  1047 
tinct.  aloes,  1605 
tinct.  benzoini,  1608 
tinct.  catechu  c.,  1613 
ung.  zinci  oxidi,  1673 
zinci  oxidum,  1738 
Fistula,  cantharis,  400 
iodum,  892 
laminaria,  928 
ol.  morrhuae,  1135 
ol.  terebinthime,  1160 
piper,  1249 
tinct.  catharidis,  1611 
ulmus,  1658 
vin.  rubrum,  1710 
Flatulence,  absinthium,  5 
acid,  carbonic.,  47 
acid,  salicylic.,  95 
acid,  sulphuros.,  106 
aether  aceticus,  139 
anethi  fructus,  209 
anisum,  215 
aqua  anethi,  254 
aqua  anisi,  254 
aqua  carui,  255 
aqua  fceniculi,  261 
aqua  menthae  piper.,  264 
arum,  294 
aurantii  cortex,  312 
carbo  ligni,  408 
cardamomum,  413 
carum,  416 
caryophyllus,  417 
confect,  terebinthinae,  530 
creolinum,  551 


INDEX  OF  THERAPEUTICS. 


1881 


Flatulence — 
cuminum,  560 
ext.  glycyrrhizse,  676 
galanga,  761 
hedeoma,  806 
magnesia,  1006 
mentha  piperita,  1033 
mistura  creosoti,  1042 
ol.  a nisi,  1111 
ol.  cajuputi,  1115 
ol.  foeniculi,  1123 
pil.  rhei  c.,  1246 
pimenta,  1247 
pulvis  aromaticus,  1327 
spirit,  aether,  nitros.,  1499 
spirit,  ammon.  aromat.,  1501 
spirit,  ammonise  foetid.,  1501 
spirit,  cajuputi,  1502 
spirit,  menthse  piperitse,  1506 
terpini  hydras,  1588 
tr.  asafoetidse,  1607 
trochisci  menthse  piperitse, 
1654 

valeriana,  1682 
wintera,  1715 
xanthoxylum,  1717 
zedoaria,  1719 
Fleas,  actsea  spicata,  123 
Fractures,  amylum,  206 
aqua,  242 

calcii  hypophosphis,  373 
calcii  phosph.  prsecip.,  375,  376 
calcii  sulphas,  376 
collodium  flexile,  522 
emplast.  resinse,  607 
gelatina,  769 

liq.  plumbi  subacetatis,  974 
liq.  sodii  silicatis,  987 
plumbi  acetas,  1261 
potassa,  1272 
vitellus,  1714 
Ununited,  potassa,  1272 
Freckles,  acid,  carbolic.,  44 
acid,  salicylic.,  95 
armoracia,  288 
convallaria,  535 
hydrarg.  chlorid.  corros.,  824 
potassii  nitras,  1309 
sodii  boras,  1459 
tinct.  benzoini,  1608 
V.  Lentigo. 

Frontal  sinus,  inflamed,  pyre-  i 
thrum,  1335 
tabacum,  1576 
Frost-bite,  aqua,  246 
aqua  ammonia;,  252 
calx  cblorata,  385 
iodum,  891 

liniment,  terebinthinse,  943 

liquidambar,  947 

ol.  terebinthinse,  1160 

resorcin,  1372 

styrax,  1534 

tr.  benzoini,  1608 

tr.  cantharidis,  1611 

ung.  aquse  rosse,  1661 

verbascum,  1695 

Fungous  growths,  alumen  ex- 1 
siccat.,  172 
aluminii  sulphas,  174 
ferrum,  748 
iodolum,  886 
Furnucle.  V.  Boils. 

p ALACTORRHCEA,  atropinse,  ! 
vT  sulpb. , 309 

GAll-ducts,  spasm  of,  bella- 
donna, 330 

Gall-stones,  sether,  134 
aqua,  245 

aquae  minerales,  273 


Gall-stones— 
lac,  920 
ol.  olivse,  1141 
ol.  terebinthinse,  1159 
Ganglions,  acid,  bydriod.,  57 
Gangrene,  acetanilid,  10 
acid,  carbolic.,  42 
acid,  citric.,  52 
acid,  salicylic.,  94 
acid,  sulphuric.,  102 
alcohol,  155 
alumin.  acetat.,  177 
ammonii  chlorid.,  187 
aqua,  246 
aqua  creosoti,  259 
arnica,  291 
bromurn,  352 
camphora,  390 
carbo  ligni,  409 
cataplasma  carbonis,  423 
cataplasma  ferment!,  423 
cataplasma  sod.  chlor.,  424 
cerevisise  ferment.,  437 
creosotum,  549 
cupri  sulphas,  563 
decoctum  quercus,  579 
eucalyptus,  628 
hsematoxylon,  804 
iodoformum,  883 
liniment,  aconiti,  939 
liq.  ferri  chloridi,  961 
liq.  sodae  cbloratae,  985 
liq.  zinci  chlorid.,  988 
myrtus,  1070 

ol.  terebinthinse,  1159,  1160 
ol.  thymi,  1163 
opium,  1178 
pix  liquida,  1256 
plumbi  nitras,  1264 
potassii  bromidum,  1287 
potassii  chloras,  1294 
potassii  permanganas,  1312 
prinos,  1319 
sambucus,  1407 
sodii  hyposulphis,  1472 
sodii  sulphocarbolas,  1487 
spirit,  camphorse,  1505 
Of  lung,  acid,  carbol.,  42 
acid,  salicylic.,  94 
ol.  terebinthinae,  1159 
potassii  permanganas,  1312 
sodii  hyposulphis,  1472 
Gastralgia,  acid,  arsenos.,  29 
acid,  hydrocyan.  dil. , 67 
acid,  valerianic.,  114 
amyl  nitris,  198 
aqua,  245 
aqua  chlori,  258 
aqua  chloroformi,  259 
aquae  minerales,  273 
argenti  nitras,  282 
argent!  oxidum,  286 
bismuthi  subnitras,  346 
chloroform,  469 
emulsum  chloroformi,  612 
iodoformum,  883 
mangani  oxid.  nigr.,  1015 
opium,  1180 
physostigma,  1223 
pil.  opii,  1244 
strychnina,  1530 
zinci  cyanidum,  1735 
Gastric  ulcer,  argenti  nitras., 
282 

argenti  oxidum,  286 
bismuthi  subnitras,  346 
chloroform um,  469 
iodoformum,  883 
lac,  919 

pancreatinum,  1190 
Gastritis,  acacia,  8 


Gastritis — 
aqua,  241 
argenti  nitras,  282 
linum,  946 

mucilago  sassafras  medullse, 
1063 

sassafras  medulla,  1427 
Glanders,  creosotum,  549 
Glands,  lymphatic,  enlarged, 
ammonii  carbonas,  184 
adeps  lanse  liydrosus,  127 
ammonii  chlorid.,  187 
ammonii  iodid.,  189 
argenti  nitras,  283 
aurum,  315 
bromurn,  352 
bryonia,  354 
cadmii  iodidum,  358 
calcii  chlor.,  371 
calcium  sulpb.,  385 
carbonei  bisulphid.,  410 
cyclamen,  572 
digitalis,  586 
emplast.  ammoniaci,  600 
emplast.  belladonna,  601 
emplast.  ferri,  602 
emplast.  hydrargyri,  603 
emplast.  plumbi,  607 
emplast.  saponis,  608 
fel  bovis,  716 
ferri  bromidum,  717 
geranium,  775 
helminthochorton,  473 
hydrarg.  iod.  rub.,  835 
iodoformum,  801 
iodum,  890 

liniment,  belladonnse,  939 
liniment,  camphora',  940 
liniment,  camp,  c.,  940 
liniment,  hydrargyri,  941 
liniment,  iodi,  941 
liq.  ammonii  acet.,  949 
liq.  potassse,  978 
mangani  sulphas,  1017 
oleatum  hydrargyri,  1098 
petroselinum,  1212 
piper,  1249 

potassii  bichromas,  1280 
potassii  carb.,  1290 
potassii  iodid.,  1306 
rumex.  1388 
ruta,  1390 
sambucus,  1407 
sapo,  1419 
sareocolla,  1420 
sedum,  1435 
sodii  chlorid.,  1468 
ung.  hydrargyri,  1665 
ung.  hydrarg.  iod.  rub.,  1666 
ung.  hydrarg.  oxid.  rub.,  1668 
ung.  iodi,  1669 
ung.  plumbi  iodidi,  1670 
ung.  potassii  iodidi,  1671 
zinci  chloridum,  1724 
Glaucoma,  atropina,  309 
cocaina  hydrochlor.,  507 
physostigma,  1223 
Gleet,  acid,  tannic.,  110 
aloe,  65 
alumen,  172 
ammonii  chlorid.,  187 
aqua  creosoti,  259 
cadmii  sulphas,  358 
cantharis,  399,  400 
cheken,  1071 
chimaphila,  448 
col ocyn  this,  525 
creosotum,  549 
cupri  sulphas,  563 
eucalyptus,  628 
I ferri  bromidum,  717 


1882  INDEX  OF  THERAPEUTICS. 


Gleet — 

ferri  sulph.,  742 
ferrum,  748 
geranium,  775 
iodum,  891 
krameria,  913 
liquidambar,  947 
liquor  calcis,  953 
lythrum,  1003 
matico,  1025 
monesia,  1047 
piper,  1249 
pix  liquida,  1256 
platinum,  1258 
spiraea,  1494 
sumbul,  1545 
thea,  1590 
tr.  cubebae,  1617 
tr.  ferri  chlor.,  1620 
vin.  rubrum,  1710 

Glottis,  spasm  of,  amyl  nitri., 
198 

Goitre,  acid,  carbolic.,  43 
acid,  bydroid.,  57 
acid,  hydrofluoric.,  68 
ammonii  chlorid.,  187 
carbonei  bisulphid.,  410 
ergota,  621 

hydrarg.  iod.  rubr.,  835 
iodoform,  881 
iodum,  890,  892 
potassii  iodidi,  1306 
spongia,  1510 

ung.  hydrarg.  iod.  rubr.,  1666 
ung.  iodi,  1669 

Exophthalmic,  amyl  nitris,199 
calcii  iodo-bromidum,  370 
duboisia,  857 

Gonorrhcea,  acid,  boric.,  36 
alumen,  172 
aq.  hydrogen,  diox.,  263 
argenti  nitras,  284 
betula,  338 

bismuthi  tannas,  347 

buchu,  356 

calx  chlorata,  385 

chloral,  458 

ceanothus,  429 

copaiba,  539 

cubeba,  558 

cupri  acetas,  561 

cupri  sulphas,  563 

eucalyptus,  628,  629 

garcinia,  766 

gurjun  oil,  540 

hydrarg.  chlor.  corros.,  824 

hydrarg.  salicylas,  845 

hydrastis,  850 

iodoformum,  881 

jacaranda,  901 

liatris,  937 

linum,  946 

liquor  sodii  silicatis,  987 
liquor  zinci  chloridi,  988 
lysol,  45 
matico,  1025 
oleores.  cubebae,  1102 
oleum  copaibae,  1120 
oleum  santali,  1151 
oleum  thymi,  1163 
petroselinum,  1212 
piper  methysticum,  1025 
plumbi  acetas,  1261 
potassii  permanganas,  1312 
quininae  salicylate,  1363 
quininae  sulphas,  1360 
salol,  1404 

sodii  bicarbonas,  1437 
sty rax,  1534 
thea,  1595 
uva  ursi,  1680 


Gonorrhcea — 

zinci  acetas,  1720 
zinci  cbloridum,  1724 
zinci  iodidum,  1726 
zinci  salicylas,  1734 
zinci  sulphas,  1731 
zinci  sulphocarbolas,  1734 

Gout,  acetonum,  12 

acid,  salicylas,  93,  94 
aconitum,  121 
aether,  135 

ammonii  benzoas,  180 
ammonii  phosphas,  191 
angelica,  210 
antipyrinum,  231 
aqua,  245,  246 

aqua  minerales,  271,  272,  273 

betula,  338 

carex  arenaria,  1425 

cera,  432 

cicuta,  477 

clematis,  502 

colchicum,  519 

fraxinus,  757 

hippocastanum,  814 

humulus,  818 

iodoformum,  883 

lac,  922 

lappa,  929 

leonurus,  934 

liq.  lithiae  eflervescens,  970 
liq.  magnesiae  carbonatis,  971 
lithii  carbonas,  992 
lithii  salicylas,  994 
magnesia,  1006 
magnolia,  1012 
oleum  succini,  1155 
ol.  sinapis  volat.,  1165 
opium,  1181 
potassii  acetas,  1276 
potassii  carbonas,  1290 
potassii  iodidum,  1306 
potassii  permangan.,  1312 
primula,  1318 
rumex,  1388 
sabina,  1392 
saponaria,  1420 
sarsaparilla,  1425 
sinapis,  1448 
sodii  bicarbonas,  1456 
spilanthes,  1335 
tabacum,  1576 
teucrium,  1589 
tr.  colchici  sem.,  1616 
tr.  rhei,  1635 
tr.  rhei  aromat.,  1636 
tr.  rhei  et  sennae,  1635 
tr.  sennae,  1638 
triticum,  1648 
vin.  colchici  radicis,  1704 
Rheumatic,  actinomeris,  808 
lithii  carbonas,  992 
moxa,  1061 

Gravel,  acid,  sulphuric.,  103 
aether,  135 
alisma,  158 
alkekengi,  159 
ammonii  benzoas,  180 
antipyrina,  231 
aqua,  245 

aquae  minerales,  273 
arenaria  rubra,  615 
chimaphila,  448 
chloroformum,  469 
Collinsonia,  520 
equisetum,  615 
erigeron,  624 
eryngium,  624 
fabiana,  712 
geranium,  775 
hydrangea,  820 


Gravel — 
iberis,  514 
juniperus,  907 
lac,  922 
lappa,  929 
liatris,  937 
linum,  946 
liq.  calcis,  953 
liq.  potassae,  977 
lithii  benzoas,  989 
lithii  carbonas,  992 
magnesia,  1006 
morphina,  1055 
oleum  ricini,  1146 
oleum  terebinthinae,  1159 
opium,  1180 
pareira,  1198 
parietaria,  1198 
persica,  1207 
petroselinum,  1212 
piperazinum,  1250 
potassa,  1272 
potassii  acetas,  1276 
potassii  bicarbonas,  1278 
potassii  carbonas,  1290 
primula,  1318 
pulsatilla,  1323 
pulv.  ipecac,  et  opii,  1331 
santoninum,  1416 
sapo,  1418 
sodii  bicarb.,  1456 
sodii  boras,  1460 
sorghum,  1647 
spilanthes,  1335 
spirit,  aetheris  nitrosi,  1499 
tr.  chloroformi  c.,  1614 
triticum,  1647 
urtica,  1677 
uva  ursi,  1680 
veronica,  1695 

Graves’s  disease,  acid,  hydriod., 
57 

Gums,  spongy,  acid,  chromic., 
49  . 

acid,  tannic.,  110 
alnus,  161 
alumen,  172 
catechu,  428 
cochlearia,  514 
eucalyptus,  629 
ferrum,  748 
iodum,  891 
liq.  ferri  chloridi,  961 
myrrha,  1069 
piper,  1249 
sodii  boras,  1459 
testa  ovi,  1714 
tr.  gallae,  1620 
tr.  krameriae,  1626 
tr.  myrrhae,  1629 
trochisci  potassii  chlorat., 
1655 

HiEMATEMESIS.  ac.  gallic.,  55 
acid,  tannic.,  109 
ipecacuanha,  897 
liq.  ferri  chlorid.,  960 
matico,  1025 
ol.  terebinthinae,  1158 
plumbi  acetas.  1261 
Hjematuria,  acid,  gallic.,  55 
acid,  tannic.,  109 
alnus,  161 
alumen,  171 
ammonii  chlor.,  187 
chimaphila,  448 
equisetum,  615 
ergota,  620 
matico,  1025 
ol.  terebinthinae,  1158 
pancreatinum,  1190 


INDEX  OF  THERAPEUTICS. 


1883 


Hematuria — 

plumbi  acetas,  1261 
rhus  aromatica,  1381 
symphytum,  1551 
uva  ursi,  1680 

Haemophilia,  acid,  tannic.,  109 

Haemoptysis,  acid,  gallic.,  55 
acid,  phosphoric.,  86 
acid,  tannic.,  109 
atropinae  sulph.,  309 
bolus,  349 
digitalis,  586 
equisetum,  615 
ergota,  620 
ferrum,  746 
ipecacuanha,  896,  897 
liq.  ferri  chloridi,  960 
liq.  ferri  subsulphatis,  966 
lycopus,  1003 
matico,  1025 
monesia,  1047 
myrica,  1065 
plumbi  acetas,  1261 
quercus,  1341 
sodii  chlorid.,  1467 
statice,  1515 
Symphytum,  1551 
urtica,  1667 

Hemorrhage,  acacia,  8 
acetum,  14 
acid,  chromic.,  49 
acid,  citric.,  52 
acid,  gallic.,  55 
acid,  salicylic.,  95 
acid,  sulphuric.,  102 
acid,  tannic.,  109 
aether,  134 
agrimonia,  146 
alumen,  171,  172 
ambrosia,  178 
ammonii  chlorid.,  187 
antipyrina,  230 
aqua,  241,  246 
aqua  chloroformi,  259 
argenti  nitras,  284 
argenti  oxidum,  286 
bistorta,  775 
bursa  pastoris,  514 
caffea,  364 
cantharis,  400 
catechu,  428 
cocaina,  510 
collodium  flexile,  522 
confectio  terebinthinae,  530 
creolinum,  551 
creosotum,  549 
cupri  sulphas,  563 
curcas,  568 
cydonium,  573 

decoctum  granati  radicis,  577 

decoctum  quercus,  579 

digitalis,  586 

diospyros,  588 

ergota,  620 

erythrophlceum,  625 

eucalyptus,  629 

ferri  chlorid.,  721 

ferri  et  ammonii  sulph.,  724 

ferri  sulphas,  742 

ferrum,  746,  749 

fungus  chirurgorum,  759 

geranium,  775 

granatum,  794 

haematoxylon,  804 

hamamelis,  805 

ipecacuanha,  897 

kino,  912 

krameria,  913 

laricis  cortex,  930 

liq.  ferri  chloridi,  960 

liq.  ferri  subsulphatis,  966 


Hemorrhage — 
lycoperdon,  1000 
lycopus,  1003 
lythrum,  1003 
mastiche,  1024 
matico,  1025 
monesia,  1047 
ol.  terebiuthinae,  1158 
opium,  1178 
persica,  1207 
Pinghawar  Djambi,  760 
plantago,  1257 
plumbi  acetas,  1261 
pulv.  ipecac,  et  opii,  1331 
quininae  sulph.,  1356 
rosa  gallica,  1386 
sanicula,  1411 
sodii  chloridum,  1468 
spiraea,  1494 
statice,  1515 
symphytum,  1551 
tr.  ferri  acetatis,  1618 
tr.  ferri  chloridi,  1619 
tr.  krameriae,  1626 
tr.  laricis,  1626 
urtica,  1676,  1677 
uva  ursi,  1680 
zinci  sulphas,  1731 
Uterine,  acid,  chromic.,  49 
acid,  salicylic.,  95 
alumen,  171 
asparagus,  301 
bryonia,  354 
caffea,  364 
cannabis,  396 
chloroformum,  469 
cinnamomum,  501 
digitalis,  586 
diospyros.  588 
ergota,  620 
ferri  chloridum,  960 
ferrum,  746 

hydrastinae  hydrochlor.,  849 
hydrastis,  850 
ipecacuanha,  897 
liq.  ferri  chloridi,  960 
mastiche,  1124 
matico,  1027 
monesia,  1047 
ol.  erigerontis  canad.,  1122 
ol.  terebinthinae,  1158 
plumbi  acetas,  1261 
quercus  alba,  1341 
ruta,  1390 
sodii  boras,  1459 
viscum,  1713 
V.  Menorrhagia. 

Haemorrhoids,  achillea,  17 
acid,  carbolic.,  43 
acid,  nitric.,  76 
acid,  tannic.,  110 
aloe,  165 
antisepsin,  886 
aqua,  245 
aq.  minerales.  271 
batiator,  899 
belladonna,  330 
capsicum,  405 
chloroformum,  469 
cocaina,  509 
confectio  piperis,  529 
copaiba,  540 
crocus,  556 
curcas,  568 
cydonium,  573 
decoct,  quercfts,  578 
ergota,  620,  621 
ext.  belladonna  ale.,  653 
glycerinum,  781 
hamamelis,  805,  806 
heuchera,  812 


Hemorrhoids — 
iodoformum,  882 
linaria,  938 
liq.  ferri  chloridi,  960 
liq.  plumbi  subacetatis,  974 
magnesia,  1006 
manna,  1019 
myrtus,  1070 
ol.  lini,  1130 
ol.  succini,  1156 
passiflora,  1200 
phytolacca,  1226 
piper,  1249 
pix  liquida,  1256 
potassii  acetas,  1276 
potassii  bitartras,  1282 
potassii  chloras,  1293 
potassii  tartras,  1317 
rheum,  1380 
sambucus,  1407 
scrophularia,  1434 
sempervivum  tectorum,  1435 
sodium  ethylate,  983 
stramonium,  1518 
sulphur,  1543 

suppositor.  acid,  carbolic., 
1549 

terebinthina,  1587 
teucrium,  1589 
ung.  gall®,  1663 
ung.  stramonii,  1671 
verbascum,  1695 

Hair,  to  darken,  pilocarpus, 
1232 

To  remove,  calx,  381 
sarcocolla,  1420 

Hallucinations,  cannabis,  395 
antipyrinum,  231 

HaVY  fever,  acid,  boric.,  36 
acid,  salicylic.,  94 
bidens,  339 
cocaina,  507 
menthol,  1035 
opium,  1182 
quininae  sulphas,  1357 
salicinum,  1401 
strychnina,  1530 
terpini  hydras,  1588 

Headache,  acetanilid,  10 
acetum,  14 
acid,  acetic.,  22 
acid,  hydrobromic.,  59 
acid,  salicylic.,  95 
aether,  134 

ammonii  carbonas,  184 
ammonii  valerianas,  193 
amyl  nitris,  198 
anthemis,  216 
antipyrinum,  231 
aqua  aurantii  flortim,  2&4 
aqua  camphorae.  255 
aqua  menthae  piperitae,  264 
beberinae  sulphas,  326 
caffea,  367 
camphora,  390 

camphora  monobromata,  392 

cannabis,  396 

carbonei  bisulphidum,  410 

chloral,  457 

chloral  butylicum,  460 

chloroformum,  469 

coca,  504 

cocaina,  510 

cubeba,  558 

ethoxy-caffeine,  366 

emplast.  menthol,  604 

ergota,  622 

eucalyptus,  629 

guarana,  801 

helenium,  807 

kola,  366 


1884 


INDEX  OF  THERAPEUTICS. 


Headache — 

laburnum,  915 
liq.  ammonii  acetat.,  949 
mentha  piperita,  1033 
morphina,  1055 
nectandra,  1078 
ol.  cajuputi,  1115 
ol.  lavandulae  flor.,  1128 
ol.  mentli.  piper.,  1132 
piper,  1249 
piscidia,  1252 
potassii  cyanidum,  1297 
primula,  1318 
pulsatilla,  1323 
quininae  valerianas,  1363 
saloplieu,  1405 
sinapis,  1448 
sodii  chlorid.,  1468 
sodium  salicylas,  1481 
spirit,  aetheris  nitros.,  1499 
spirit,  ammon.  aromat.,  1501 
spirit,  lavandulae,  1506 
spirit,  myrciae,  1507 
thea,  1595 
tilia,  1602 

tr.  Valerianae  ammoniata,  1640 
valeriana,  1682 
zinci  valerianas,  1733 
zingiber,  1737 

Heart,  dilatation  of,  digitalis, 
584 

ergota,  622 
plumbi  acetas,  1261 
Diseases  of,  aqua,  243 
argenti  nitras,  282 
barium,  325 
cactus,  357 
chloral  butylic.,  460 
convallaria,  535 
digitalis,  585 
erythropliloeum,  625 
iodoform,  883 
lac,  925 
opium,  1180 
plumbi  acetas,  1261 
potassii  iodidum,  1306 
sparteine,  1432,  1433 
strophanthus,  1524 
veratrum  viride,  1693 
Irritable,  acid,  hydrobrom.  j 
dil.,  59 

infus.  pruni  Virginian.,  872 
Fatty,  strychnma,  1531 
Obstruction  of,  aqua  ammo- 
niae,  252 

Palpitation  of,  belladonna, 
329 

ammonia  valerianas,  193 
aq.  ammonia,  252 
aq.  aurantii  flor.,  254 
aq.  camphora,  255 
cactus,  357 
caffea,  366 
conium,  553 
convallaria,  535 
digitalis,  584 
ext.  pruni  virgin,  fl.,  697 
ferrum,  746 
hyoscyamus,  855 
mentha  piperita,  1033 
piscidia,  1252 
pyridine,  1110 
veratrina,  1689 
Heartburn,  magnesia,  1006 
sodii  bicarbonas,  1456 
Heart-exhaustion,  aether,  136 
barii  chlorid.,  325 
belladonna,  331 
cocaina  hydrochlor.,  510 
Heat-exhaustion,  atropina  sul- 
phas, 309 


Hemeralopia,  strychnina,  1529 
Hepatitis,  hydrarg.  chlor.  mite, 
828 

hydrargyrum,  844 
Hernia,  ather,  134,  135 
ammonii  chlorid.,  187 
antim.  et  potass,  tart.,  220, 221 
aqua,  242 
belladonna,  330 
caffea,  367 

collodium  flexile,  522 
elastica,  594 
enema  tabaci,  614 
iodum,  892 

liq.  plumbi  subacetatis,  994 
opium,  1178 
I tabacum,  1576 
| Herpes,  acid,  boric.,  36 
acid,  salicylic.,  94 
argenti  nitras,  284 
chloroformum,  469 
chrysarobinum,  476 
lycopodium,  1002 
pix  liquida,  1256 
ung.  hydrarg.  ammon.,  1665 
ung.  picis  liquidae,  1669 
ung.  zinci  oxid.,  1673 
Zoster,  chloroform.,  469 
collodium  flexile,  522 
grindelia,  795 
lycopodium,  1002 
zinci  phosphid.,  1729 
Hiccough,  aether,  134 
amyl  nitris,  198 
anethi  fructus,  209 
apomorphina,  236 
aqua  camphorae,  255 
aqua  menthae  piperit.,  264 
caffea,  364 
camphora,  390 
chloral,  457 
mentha  piperita,  1033 
moschus,  1060 
ol.  cajuputi,  1115 
pilocarpus,  1223 
quininae  sulphas,  1357 
saccharum,  1397 
sinapis,  1447 
tabacum,  1576 

Hip- joint  disease,  potassa,  1272 
Hoarseness,  acidum  nitricum, 
76 

aqua  ammoniae,  252 
catechu,  428 
saccharum,  1397 
sodii  boras,  1459 
tragacantha,  1643 
trochisci  acid,  tannici,  1650 
trochisci  catechu,  1651 
Hydrarthrosis,  bryonia,  354 
cantharis,  400 
iodum,  892 

liq.  ammonii  acet.,  949 
moxa,  1061 
ung.  iodi,  1669 

Hydrocele,  acid,  carbolic.,  43 
cantharis,  400 
elastica,  594 

hydrarg.  chlor.  corros.,  824 
iodol,  886 
iodum,  892 

liq.  ammonii  acet.,  949 
liq.  ferri  chloridi,  960 
scilla,  1431 
vin.  rubrum,  1710 
Hydrocephalus,  iodum,  892 
potassii  iodid.,  1306 
Hydrophobia,  tether,  135 
amyl  nitris,  198 
cantharis,  400 
chloral,  457 


! Hydrophobia — 

cocainae  hydrochloras,  506 
curare,  567 
iodum,  893 
liq.  potassae,  978 
mylabris  orientalis,  402 
oxygenium,  1187 
pilocarpus,  1231 

j Hydrothorax,  pilocarpus,  1231 

j Hydruria,  ferri  sulphas,  742 
liquor  calcis,  953 
liquor  ferri  chloridi,  960 

Hypertrophy  of  various  or- 
gans, ferri  bromidum,  717 
iodum,  891 
potassii  iodid.,  1306 

Hypochondria,  aquae  minerales, 
273 

asafoetida,  296 
cocainae  hydrochlor.,  511 
hyoscyamus,  855 

Hypopion,  cocainae  hydrochlor., 
507 

Hytsteria,  acid,  succinic.,  97 
aether,  134, 135 
aethyl  bromid.,  142 
allium,  160 
allyl  tribomid.,  160 
ambra  grisea,  178 
ammonii  valerianas,  193 
amyl  nitris,  198 
antipyrinum,  230 
aqua,  242 

aqua  aurantii  florum,  254 
asafoetida,  296 
aurum,  315 
calcii  bromidum,  369 
camphora  monobromata,  392 
castoreum,  422 
cypripedium,  574 
dracontium,  589 
emulsum  chloroformi,  612 
enema  asafcetidae,  613 
enema  terebinthinae,  614 
ferri  bromidum,  717 
ferri  valerianas,  744 
galega,  763 
imperatoria,  865 
morphina,  1055 
moschus,  1061 
narcissus,  1076 
ol.  animal,  aether.,  1109 
ol.  chenopodii,  1118 
ol.  succini,  1156 
ol.  valerianse,  1166 
opium,  1179 
oxygenium,  1187 
parthenium,  1199 
plumbi  acetas,  1261 
potassii  bromid.,  1286 
primula,  1318 
quininae  valerianas,  1363 
ruta,  1389 

sempervivum  tectorum,  1435 
sinapis,  1448 

spirit,  aether,  comp.,  1495 
spirit,  ammoniae  foetid.,  1501 
spirit,  rosmarini,  1508 
sumbul,  1545 
tanacetum,  1579 
tilia,  1602 

tinct.  asafoetidae,  1607 

tract,  castorei,  1613 

tinct.  valerianae  ammon.,  1640 

trimethycarbinol,  201 

urtica,  1677 

valeriana,  1682 

viscum,  1713 

zinci  oxidum,  1727 

zinci  phosphidum,  1729 

zinci  valerianas,  1733 


INDEX  OF  THERAPEUTICS. 


1885 


T CHTHYOSIS,  cupri  sulphas, 
1 564 

ol.  morrhuse,  1135 
sapo,  1419 

Ileus,  enema  tabaci,  614 
Impetigo,  acid,  boric.,  36 
acid,  nitric,  dil.,  76 
iodoform.,  882 

liq.  arsen.  et  hydrarg.  iod., 
951 

oleum  lini,  1130 
oleum  morrhuse,  1135 
potassa  sulphurata,  1274 
salol,  1404 

sodii  hyposulphis,  1472 
sulphur,  1542 
uug.  zinci  oxid.  1673 
Impotence,  carlina  acaulis,  877 
coca,  504 
damiana,  575 
ol.  phosphorat.,  1143 
phosphorus,  1219 
sodii  hypophosphis,  1470 
strychnina,  1530 
urtica,  1677 

Incontinence  of  urine,  acid, 
benzoic.,  33 
atropina,  309 
belladonna,  330 
collodium  flexile,  522 
krameria,  913 
lupulina,  1000 
potassii  bromidum,  1286 
Inebriety,  aurum,  315 
Inflammation,  acacia,  8 
acetum,  14 
acid,  salicylic.,  94 
aconitum,  121 
aluminii  sulph.,  177 
ammonii  chlorid.,  187 
ammonii  uitras,  189 
aqua,  241 

argenti  nitras,  284 
cataplasma  lini,  424 
cataplasma  sinapis,  424 
digitalis,  585 
emplast.  belladonna,  601 
hirudo,  816 

hydrarg.  chlorid.  mite,  828 
hydrargyrum,  844 
lac,  919 

lini  farina,  946 
liq.  plumbi  subacetatis,  974 
magnesii  sulphas,  1010 
opium,  1178 

pulv.  ipecac,  et  opii,  1331 
pyoktanin,  214 
sassafras  medulla,  1427 
sodae  citro-tart.  effervescens, 
1469 

tr.  cantharidis,  1611 
veratrum  viride,  1693 
Influenza,  eupatorium,  631 
liq.  ammonii  acet.,  949 
sabbatia,  1391 

Insanity,  acid,  nitroliydrochlor., 
78 

acid,  phosphoric.,  86 

amylenum  hydrat.,  200 

aqua,  241,  245 

cannabis,  395 

chloral,  456,  457 

chloralamid,  461 

colocynthis,  525 

conium,  533 

ergota,  622 

ferrum,  747 

gratiola,  794 

helleborus,  810 

hyoscyaminse  hydrobrom.,852 

hyoscyamus,  855,  856 


Insanity — 

morphina,  1054 
opium,  1178 
paraldehyde,  1196 
phosphorus,  1219 
potassii  brornid.,  1285 
sinapis,  1448 
stramonium,  1518 
urethane,  1675 
valeriana,  1682 

Insects,  bites  of,  allium,  160 
ammon.  carb.,  184 
aqua  ammonia,  252 
euphorbia  prostrata,  634 
menthol,  1085 
oleum  olivse,  1141 
sodii  chlorid.,  1468 
V.  Stings. 

To  destroy,  actaa,  123 
anthemis,  216 
py rethrum  roseum,  1334 
I veratrum  album,  1691 
Insomnia  acid,  hydrobrom.  dil., 
59 

ammonii  valerianas,  193 
amyl  nitris,  198 
amylenum  hydrat.,  200 
antipyrinum,  230 
aqua,  241 

camphora  monobromata,  392 
cannabis,  396 
chloral,  456 
chloralamid,  461 
chloral  butylicum,  460 
codeina,  516 
hypnal,  459 
lactucarium,  927 
moschus,  1061 
opium,  1178 
paraldehyde,  1196 
potassii  brornid.,  1284 
primula,  1318 
spii*.  ather.  comp.,  1495 
sulphonal,  1536 
tr.  valerian*  ammon.,  1640 
trional,  1536 
ural,  1675 
urethanum,  1675 
Intertrigo,  acid,  salicylic.,  95 
aluminii  hydras,  175 
amylum,  206 
aqua,  241 

argenti  nitras,  284 
betula,  338 

bismuthi  subnitras,  346 
bolus,  349 

collodium  flexile,  522 
creta  praparata,  554 
farina  tritici,  714 
glycerin,  amyli,  784 
glycerit.  vitelli,  786 
lac,  921 

lycoperdon,  1000 
lycopodium,  1002 
myrtus,  1070 
paraffin  um,  1194 
plumbi  carbonas,  1263 
salvia,  1406 
ung.  zinci  oxidi,  1673 
zinci  carb.  pracip.,  1722 
zinci  oxid.,  1728 

I Intestinal  obstruction,  acid, 
carbon  icum,  47 
aqua,  245 
hydrargyrum,  844 
magnesii  sulphas,  1011 
opium,  1180 
physostigma,  1223 
pulvis  effervescens  comp., 
1329 

strychnina,  1530 


Intestinal  obstruction,  taba- 
cum,  1576 

Intoxication,  alcoholic,  am- 
monii clilor.,  184 
apomorphina,  236 
aqua,  243,  245 
aqua  ammonise,  251 
caffea,  364 

liq.  ammonii  acetat.,  949 
saccharum,  1397 
sodii  chlorid.,  1468 
strychnina,  1530 
urtica,  1677 

Intussusception,  aqua,  242 
Iris,  displacements  of,  physos- 
tigma, 1222 

Prolapse  of,  atropina,  309 
belladonna,  330 
cocaina,  506 
physostigma,  1222 
Iritis,  acid,  salicylic,  93 
argenti  nitras,  283 
belladonna,  330 
copaiba,  540 
ergota,  622 
hydrargyrum,  845 
hydrarg.  chlor.  mite,  830 
oleatum  hydrargyri,  1099 
ol.  terebinthina,  1159 
physostigma,  1222 
scopoline,  332 
sodium  salicylas,  1482 
Issues,  calx,  381 

ceratrum  sabinae,  436 
elemi,  597 
mezereum,  1040 
potassa,  1272 
potassa  c.  calce,  1272 
Itching,  acid,  hydrocyan,  dil.,  67 
carota,  415 
creosotum,  549 
glycerina,  782 
hydrarg.  chlor.  corros.,  824 
V.  Pruritus. 

T AUNDICE,  acid,  benzoic.,  34 
fj  acid,  citric.,  52 
acid,  nitric.,  76 
acid,  nitroliydrochlor.  dil.,  78 
acid,  phosphoric.,  86 
alkekengi,  159 
aloe,  165 
aqua,  245 
argenti  nitras*  282 
belladonna,  330 
calendula,  377 
chelidonium,  446 
chelone,  446 
eryngium,  624 
fel  bo  vis,  716 
galium,  764 
gratiola,  794 

hydrarg.  chlor.  mite,  830 
ipecacuanha,  897 
linaria,  938 
mangani  sulph.,  1017 
pancreatinum,  1190 
pil.  cathartic*  c.,  1241 
potassii  acetas,  1276 
potassii  bicarbonas,  1278 
potassii  carb.,  1290 
triticum,  1648 
urtica,  1677 

Joints,  diseased,  ammonii 
chlorid.,  187 

calcii  phosph.  pracip.,  375 
calcii  sulph.  exsiccat.,  376 
emplast.  ammon iaci  c.  hy- 
drarg., 600 
emplast.  ferri,  602 
emplast.  picis  cantharid.,  603 


1886 


INDEX  OF  THERAPEUTICS. 


Joints— 

emplast.  saponis,  608 
emplast.  saponis  fuscum,  608 
euphorbium,  634 
hydrarg.  iodid.  rub.,  835 
iodoformum,  881 
iodum,  892 

mangani  sulphas,  1017 
moxa,  1061 

oleatum  hydrargyri,  1098 
ol.  morrhuae,  1135 
petroleum,  1210 
potassa,  1272 
sapo,  1419 
sarcocolla,  1420 
ung.  iodi,  1669 

Nodosity  of,  acid,  arsenosum, 
29 

bydrarg.  cblor.  corros.,  825 
iodum,  891 

Kidneys,  diseases  of, 

aniliuum,  214 
aqua,  245 
buchu,  356 
cantharis,  399,  400 
cbimaphila,  448 
cucumis,  559 

hydrarg.  cblor.  mite,  830- 
lac,  922 
liatris,  937 
linum,  946 
liquidambar,  947 
mistura  amygdalae,  947 
myrtus,  1070 
ol.  terebintliinae,  1159 
pareira,  1198 
pilocarpus,  1232 
terebinthina  canad.,  1587 
uva  ursi,  1680 

LABOR,  aether,  134,  135 
aetbyl  bromid,  142 
alcohol,  156 
amyl  nitris,  198 
antipyrin um,  231,  232 
aqua,  246 
cannabis,  396 
carbonei  tetrachlor.,  411 
chloral,  457 

chloroformum,  468,  469 
cimicifuga,  479 
cinnamoinum,  501 
cocaina,  509 
creolinum,  551 
ergota,  619 

ext.  gossypii  rad.  fl.,  677 
ol.  ricini,  1146 
ol.  terebintliinae,  1158 
opium,  1180 
pilocarpus,  1232 
Pains,  aether,  134,  135 
opium,  1181 
spongia,  1510 

Premature,  acid,  carbonic.,  47 
Slow,  aqua,  246 
cinnamomum,  501 
ergota,  619 

gossypii  radicis  cortex,  790 
pilocarpus,  1232 
quininae  sulphas,  1360 
sodii  boras,  1459 
spongia,  1510 
trillium,  1644 
uva  ursi,  1680 

Lactation,  excessive,  iodum, 
891 

Laryngismus,  aether,  135 
atropinae  sulph.,  308 
belladonna,  330 
chloral,  457 


Laryngismus — 
conium,  533 
moscbus,  1060 
quininae  sulphas,  1357 
sanguinaria,  1409 
tabacum,  1576 
Laryngitis,  acacia,  8 
acid,  carbolic.,  42 
acid,  carbonic.,  47 
acid,  chromic.,  49 
acid,  hydrobrom.  dil.,  59 
acid,  lactic.,  71 
aether  acetic.,  139 
aethyl  iodid.,  143 
alumen,  171,  172 
ammonii  chlorid.,  187 
antimon.  et  potass,  tart.,  220 
antipyrinum,  230 
apomorphina,  237 
aqua,  244,  245 
aqua  ammoniae,  251 
aquae  minerales,  272,  273 
argenti  nitras,  283 
armoracia,  288 
balsam,  peruvian.,  320 
belladonna,  330 
bidens,  339 
catechu,  428 
cetaceum,  440 
coca,  504 
conium,  533 
copaiba,  540 
creosotum,  540 
emulsum  amygdalae,  611 
ext.  glycyrrhizae,  676 
glycerinum,  781 
glycyrrhiza,  787 
hydrarg.  chlor.  mite,  830 
bydrarg.  subsulph.  flavus,  939 
ichthyol,  861 
iodoformum,  882 
iodum,  891 
ipecacuanha,  896 
jujuba,  906 

liniment,  ammoniae,  939 
liniment,  terebintliinae,  943 
linum,  946 
liquor  calcis,  953 
lobelia,  996 

mistura  glycyrrhizae  c.,  1044 
moschus,  1060 
ol.  ricini,  1146 
ol.  terebintbinae,  1160 
ol.  tiglii,  1165 
oxymel  scillae,  1188 
pilocarpus,  1232 
potassa  sulphurata,  1274 
potassii  bromid.,  1287 
potassii  carb.,  1290 
quininae  sulphas,  1359 
ranunculus,  1364 
saccharum,  1397 
sassafras  medulla,  1427 
senega,  1438 
sneezewort,  17 
sodii  boras,  1459 
sodii  chlorid.,  1468 
sulphur,  1543 
syr.  acaciae,  1553 
syr.  allii,  1555 
syr.  althaeae,  1555 
syr.  amygdalae,  1556 
syr.  ipecacuanhae,  1564 
syr.  scillae,  1570 
syr.  scillae  c.,  1571 
syr.  senegae,  1571 
tabacum,  1576 
tinct.  benzoini,  1608 
tinct.  lobeliae,  1627 
tinct.  lobeliae  aether.,  1628 
tragacantha,  1643 


Laryngitis— 

trochisci  catechu,  1651 
trochisci  cubebae,  1652 
trochisci  glycyrr.  et  opii,  1653 
trochisci  ipecac.,  1653 
trochisci  morpbinae,  1654 
zinci  sulphas,  1731 
Laryngitis,  pseudo-membra- 
nous, alumen,  171 
apomorphina,  237 
argenti  nitras,  283 
cantharis,  400 
copaiba,  540 
cupri  sulphas,  563 
hydrargyrum,  845 
hydrarg.  chlor.  corros.,  823 
hydrarg.  chlor.  mite,  830 
liquor  calcis,  953 
potassa  sulphurata,  1274 
potassii  carb.,  1287 
zinci  sulphas,  1731 
Laryngoscope,  to  facilitate 
use  of,  glycerinum,  782 
potassii  bromid.,  1287 
Larynx,  diseases  of,  resor- 
cinum,  1373 

Foreign  body  in,  apomorphia, 
236 

(Edema  of,  pilocarpus,  1232 
Ulcerated,  acid,  chromic.,  49 
acid,  lactic.,  71 
argenti  nitras,  283 
potassii  bromid.,  1287 
Lead  colic,  ol.  tiglii,  1165 
strychnina,  1529 
tabacum,  1576 

Paralysis,  strychnina,  1529 
Poisoning  by,  potassii  iodid., 
1305 

Leech-bites,  aqua,  246 
argenti  nitras,  284 
liq.  ferri  chloridi,  960 
mastiche,  1024 

Lentigo,  hydrarg.  chlorid.  cor- 
ros., 824 

sodii  boras,  1459 
V.  Freckles. 

Lepra,  acid,  arsenos.,  28 
arseni  iodidum,  292 
cantharis,  400 
copaiba,  540 
gutta-percha,  802 
phosphorus,  1219 
pix  liquida,  1256 
ruta,  1390 
ung.  picis  liq.,  1669 
ung.  sulphuris  iodidi,  1672 
Leprosy,  copaiba,  540 
gurjun  oil,  540 
gynocardia,  803 
hura,  819 
hydrocotyle,  851 
pyrogallol,  1336 
Lethargy,  urtica,  1677 
Leucorrhcea,  achillea,  17 
acid,  arsenos.,  30 
acid,  carbolic.,  47 
acid,  chromic.,  49 
acid,  salicylic.,  95 
acid,  tannic.,  110 
alnus,  161 
althaea,  169 
alumen,  172 
aluminii  sulphas,  177 
ammonii  chlorid.,  187 
aqua  ammoniae,  252 
aqua  creosoti,  259 
aq.  hydrogen,  diox.,  263 
aqua  minerales,  272,  274 
argenti  nitras,  284 
balsam,  peruvian.,  320 


INDEX  OF  THERAPEUTICS. 


1887 


Leucorehcea — 

beberia?  sulphas,  326 
bismuth!  subnitras,  346 
bismutlii  tannas,  346 
bolus,  349 

calcii  hypophospli.,  373 

calcium  sulphide,  385 

camphor  (carbolized ),  390 

cantharis,  400 

catechu,  428 

chimaphila,  448 

copaiba,  540 

creosotum,  549 

cubeba,  558 

cupri  sulphas,  563 

cydouium,  572 

decoct,  grauati  rad.,  577 

decoct,  quercus,  579 

diospyros,  588 

ergota,  620 

eucalyptus,  628 

ferri  bromidum,  717 

ferri  et  ammonii  sulph.,  724 

ferri  sulphas,  742 

ferrum,  747 

galbauum,  762] 

garciuia,  766 

geranium,  775 

geum,  776 

glycerinum,  781 

granatum,  794 

hydrarg.  chlor.  corros.,  824 

hydrastis,  850 

iodum,  891 

juglans,  905 

krameria,  912 

labdauum,  914 

liquor  calcis,  953 

liquor  ferri  chloridi,  960 

liquor  ferri  nitratis,  964 

liquor  sodae  chlorat.,  985 

liq.  sodii  silicatis,  987 

liquor  zincii  chloridi,  988 

lysol,  45 

• ly  thrum,  1003 
matico,  1025 
monesia,  1047 
myrrha,  1067 
myrtus,  1070 
nectandra,  1078 
nymphaea,  1088 
ol.  sabinae,  1150 
ol.  thymi,  1162 
pil.  galbani  c.,  1244 
piper,  1249 
pix  liquida,  1256 
platinum,  1258 
plumbi  acetas,  1261 
potassa  sulpliurata,  1274 
potassii  permanganas,  1312 
rhus  aromatica,  1381 
sanicula,  1411 
sodii  boras,  1459 
sodii  chlorid.,  1468 
spiraea,  1494 
sumbul,  1545 
syr.  ferri  iodidi,  1560 
teucrium,  1589 
thea,  1595 

tinct.  catechu  c.,  1613 
tinct.  ferri  chloridi,  1620 
urtica,  1667 
uva  ursi,  1680 
vin.  rubrum,  1710 
zinci  acetas,  1720 
zinci  chloridum,  1724 
zinci  iodidum,  1726 
zinci  oxidum,  1728 
zinci  sulphocarbonas,  1735 
Leukaemia,  acid,  arsenos.,  29 
oxygen  ium,  1187 


Leukaemia,  pancreatinum,  1190 
Lice,  acid,  oleic.,  80 
acid,  salicylic.,  95 
actea,  123 
aether,  134 
gynocardia,  803 
hydrai’g.  clilor.  corros.,  824 
ledum,  908 

oleatum  hydrargyri,  1098 
picrotoxinum,  1228 
piper,  1249 
ruta,  1390 
sabadilla,  1391 
staphisagria,  1513 
ung.  hydrarg.  ammon.,  1665 
veratrum  album,  1691 
Lichen,  acid.  acet.  dil.,  22 
acid,  arsenos.,  28 
chrysarobinum,  475,  476 
farini  tritici,  714 
hydrocotyle,  851 
Lientery,  acid,  tannic.,  109 
opium,  1180 

Lightning-stroke,  aqua,  242 
Lime,  poisoning  by,  acetum,  14 
Lips,  fissured,  bismuthi  sub- 
nitras, 346 
monesia,  1047 
tr.  benzoin  i,  1608 
Lithiasis,  sodii  bicarb.,  1456 
Liver,  abscess  of,  ammonii 
chlor.,  187 

Cirrhosis  of,  lac,  919 
Congestion  of,  aquae  miner- 
ales,  275 
calendula,  377 
cambogia,  386 
elaterium,  596 
Fabiana,  712 

hydrarg.  chlor.  mite,  827,  829 
hydrargyrum,  844 
liquor  sodae,  982 
mangani  sulphas,  1017 
manna,  1019 
massa  hydrargyri,  1023 
ol.  ricini,  1146 
pil.  cathartic*  c.,  1241 
pil.  scammonii  c.,  1246 
podophyllum,  1268 
potassii  acetas,  1276 
potassii  carbonas,  1290 
potassii  tartras,  1317 
rumex,  1388 

sodii  carbonas  exsiccatus,  1465 
stillingia,  1515 
taraxacum,  1581 
Diseases  of,  acid,  nitric.,  76 
acid,  nitrohydrochlor.  dil.,  78 
aquae  minerales,  273 
Enlarged,  ammonii  chlorid., 
187 

bromum,  352 
conium,  532 

emplast.  hydrargyri,  603 
ung.  hydrargyri,  1665 
Syphilitic,  emplast.  hydrar- 
gyri, 603 

Lochia,  to  promote,  aqua,  246 
To  deodorize,  eucalyptus,  628 
ol.  thymi,  1163 
potassii  permangan.,  1312 
Lumbago,  acid,  salicylic.,  94 
aether,  135 
capsicum,  405 
cimicifuga,  479 
morphina,  1055 
moxa,  1061 
pix  burgundica,  1253 
potassii  iodum,  1306 
Lung,  congestion  of,  aqua,  243 
elaterium,  595 


Lung- 

Gangrene  of,  eucalyptus,  629 
myrtus,  1070 

potassii  permanganas,  1312 
(Edema  of,  aether,  136 
Lupus,  acid,  arsenosum,  32 
acid,  chloracetic.,  22 
acid,  chromic.,  49 
acid,  lactic.,  71 
acid,  salicylic.,  93,  95 
amylum  iodat.,  207 
arseni  iodid.,  292 
au rum,  315 
calcii  chlorid.,  371 
cantharis,.  400 
carbon  bisulphid.,  410 
creosotum,  549 
ferri  chloridum,  721 
hydrarg.  chlor.  corros.,  824 
hydrarg.  iodid.  rub.,  835 
hydroxylamin,  476 
iodoform.,  882 
iodolum,  886 
iodum,  892 

liq.  arseni  et  hydrarg.  iod., 
951 

liq.  hydrarg.  nitratis,  969 
ol.  morrhuae,  1135 
pyrogallol,  1336 
sapo,  1419 

sodium  ethylate,  983 
ung.  acidi  carbolici,  1659 
ung.  sulphuris  iodidi,  1672 
zinci  chloridum,  1724 
zinci  sulphas,  1732 
zinci  sulphid.,  1731 
Lymphatics,  inflammation  of, 
argenti  nitras,  283 
Lymphoma,  acid,  arsenos.,  28 

MAGGOTS,  chloroform.,  469 
hydrarg.  chloridum  mite,  830 
sambucus,  1407 

Malarial  cachexia,  acid,  hy- 
driod.,  57 

aquae  mineral.,  270 
koumys,  922 

Mamma,  engorged,  alnus,  161 
antimon.  et  potass,  tart.,  220 
belladonna,  331 
empl.  belladonnae,  601 
ergota,  621 
iodum,  890 

liq.  ammoniae  acetat.,  949 
oleatum  hydrargyri,  1098 
ol.  olivae,  1141 
ol.  ricini,  1146 
ol.  terebinthinae,  1160 
petroselinum,  1212 
phytolacca,  1226 
ung.  iodi,  1669 
ung.  plumbi  iodidi,  1670 
Hypertrophied,  conium,  533 
emplast.  belladonnae,  601 
iodum,  890 
Mania,  aether,  135 

antimon.  et  pot.  tart.,  221 
antipyrinum,  230 
apomorph.  hydrochlor.,  236 
aqua,  241 
camphora,  390 
chloral,  456 
cocaina,  511 
conium,  533 
gelsemium,  771 
gratiola,  794 
helleborus,  810 
hyoscyamus,  855 
opium,  1179 
paraldehyde,  1196 
veratrum  viride,  1693 


1888 


INDEX  OF  THERAPEUTICS. 


Mania-a-potu,  acetanilidum,  10 
ant.  et  pot.  tart.,  221 
aqua,  242 
chloral,  456 
ergota,  621 
opium,  1178 
sinapis,  1447 
stryclmina,  1530 
tinct.  chloroformi  c.,  1614 
veratrum  viride,  1693 

Measles,  adeps,  125 
ammonii  carb.,  184 
ferrum,  748 

Melancholy,  acid,  phosphoric., 
86 

coca,  504 
colocynthis,  525 
conium,  533 
ergota,  622 
gratiola,  794 
helleborus,  810 
phosphorus,  1220 
stramonium,  1518 

Membranes,  mucous,  relaxed, 
decoct,  granati  radicis,  577 
decoctum  quercus  alb*,  579 

Meningitis,  antimon.  et  potass, 
tart.,  221 

acid,  salicylic.,  93 
belladonna,  330 
cantharis,  400 
ergota,  622 
gelsemium,  771 
hydrarg.  chlor.  mite,  828,  829 
hydrargyrum,  844 
hyoscyamus,  856 
iodoformum,  881 
juglans,  905 
ol.  tiglii,  1165 
opium,  1179 
potassii  iodid.,  1306 
Epidemic,  antipyrina,  231 
belladonna,  330 
cantharis,  401 
ergota,  622 
opium,  1179 

Menorrhagia,  achillea,  17 
acid,  arsenos,  32 
acid,  gallic.,  55 
acid,  salicylic.,  95 
acid,  tannic.,  109 
aloe,  165 
alumen,  171 
ammonii  bromid.,  182 
aqua,  246 

a tropin*  sulph.,  309 
beberi*  sulphas,  326 
bolus,  349 
bursa  pastoris,  514 
caffea,  365 

calcii  hypophosphis,  373 
canella,  393 
cannabis,  396 
capsicum,  405 
catechu,  428 
cinnamomum,  501 
ergota,  620 
ferrum,  746 
geum,  776 
heuchera,  812 
hydrastis,  850 
juglans,  905 
kino,  912 

liq.  ammonii  acet.,  949 
liq.  ferri  nitratis,  964 
monesia,  1070 
myrtus,  1070 
nectandra,  1078 
ol.  erigerontis  canad.,  1122 
ol.  rosmarini,  1150 
ol.  rut*,  1150 


Menorrhagia — 
ol.  sabinse,  1150 
ol.  terebinthin*,  1159 
plumbi  acetas,  1261 
quercus,  1341 
ruta,  1390 
sabina,  1392 
salvia,  1406 
sodii  boras,  1459 
spiraea,  1494 
statice,  1515 
symphytum,  1551 
tr.  krameri*,  1626 
trillium,  1644 
urtica,  1676 
uva  ursi,  1680 
viscum,  1713 

Menstruation,  disorders  of, 
anthemis,  216 
aqua,  245,  246 
bursa  pastoris,  514 
cimicifuga,  479 
ferrum,  746 

gossypii  rad.  cortex,  790 
hedeoma,  806 
ol.  rosmarini,  1148 
petroselinum,  1213 
pichurim,  1079 
tinct.  castorei,  1613 
Mentagra,  chrysarobinum,  476 
! Mercurial  sore  mouth,  acid, 
hydrochlor.  dil. , 63 
acid,  nitric.,  76 
acid,  hydrobrom.  dil.,  59 
ambrosia,  178 
argenti  nitras,  284 
baptisia,  322 
cupri  sulphas,  563 
liq.  sod*  chlorat.,  985 
potassii  cliloras,  1292 
potassii  iodidum,  1305 
sodii  boras,  1459 
sodii  chloridum,  1468 
Mercurial  tremor,  zinci  phos- 
phidum,  1729 

Mercury,  elimination  of, 
potassii  iodid.,  1305 
Poisoning  by,  potassii  iodid., 
1305 

Metritis,  hydrarg.  chlor.  mite, 
830 

creolinum,  551 
iodoformum,  881 
Migraine.  V.  Headache. 
Milk,  to  diminish  secretion 
of,  agaricus  albus,  144 
alnus,  161 
antipyrina,  231 
atropina,  309 
belladonna,  331 
conium,  533 
ergota,  621 
iodum,  891 
juglans,  905 
liq.  ammoni  ace  tat.,  949 
mel,  1028 
salvia,  1406 
spirit,  camphor*,  1502 
To  PROMOTE  SECRETION  OF, 
aqua,  246 
cuminum,  560 
curcas,  568 
fceniculum,  753 
galega,  763 
gaultheria,  767 
gossypii  rad.  cort.,  790 
ol.  fceniculi,  1123 
potassii  chloras,  1293 
ricinus,  1146 
xanthoxylum,  1717 
Miscarriage,  liamamelis,  805 


Miscarriage — 

potassii  chloras,  1293 
Mollities  ossium,  calcii  phos- 
phas  prsecip.,  373 
Mortification.  V.  Gangrene. 
Mouth,  dry,  glycerinum,  782 
Operation  on,  cocain*  hydro- 
chlor., 507 

Ulcers  of,  baptisia,  322 
calx  chlorata,  385 
ceanothus,  429 
cupri  sulphas,  563 
juglans,  905 
liq.  sod*  chlorat*,  985 
mel,  1030 
V.  Aphtha. 

Moxa,  chloroform,  469 
Mucous  fluxes,  cydonium,  573 
decoct,  granat.  rad.,  577 
decoct,  quercus,  579 
ferrum,  747 
liquor  calcis,  953 
matico,  1025 
potassa  sulphurata,  1274 
quinin*  sulphas,  1359 
Mucous  MEMBRANE,  RELAXED, 
gall*,  766 

decoct,  granat.  rad.,  577 
decoct,  quercus,  579 
geranium,  775 

Mumps,  antimon.  et  potass,  tart., 
220 

pilocarpus,  1233 

Muscles,  wasting  of,  cantharis, 
401 

Myalgia,  ammonii  chlorid.,  187 
Mydriasis,  pliysostigma,  1222 
Myoma,  resorcinum,  1373 
Myopia,  atropina,  309 
Myxcedema,  pilocarpus,  1233 

iEVI,  acid,  carbolic.,  43 
alcohol,  155 
aluminii  sulph.,  177 
antimon.  et  potass,  tart.,  221 
argenti  nitras,  284 
calx,  381 

collodium  flexile,  522 
creosotum,  549 
ferri  chloridum,  721 
potassa,  1272 
sodium  ethylate,  982 
Nail,  ingrown,  acid,  tannic.,  110 
alumen,  172 
aqua,  243 

camphor  (carbolized),  390 
carbonei  bisulphidum,  410 
cocaina,  510 
ferrum,  748 

fungus  chirurgorum,  759 
liq.  ferri  chloridi,  961 
liq.  potass*,  978 
potassa,  1272 
Narcotism,  acetum,  14 
caffea,  364 
oxygenium,  1187 
urtica,  1677 

Nasal  Catarrh.  V.  Catarrh. 
Nasal  duct,  obstruction  of, 
acid,  boric.,  35 
acid,  chromic.,  49 
Nausea,  caryophyllus,  417 
fceniculum,  753 
liq.  potassii  citratis,  980 
mentha  piperita,  1033 
pulvis  aromaticus,  1327 
spiritus  *theris  nitrosi,  1499 
spiritus  ammon.  aromat,  1501 
spiritus  lavandul*,  1506 
tr.  cinnamomi,  1615 
tr.  lavandul*  c.,  1627 


INDEX  OF  THERAPEUTICS. 


1889 


tr.  zingiberis,  1642 
trochisei  menth.  piperit.,  1654 

Nephritis,  pilocarpus,  1231 
terpin®  hydras,  1588 
V.  Albuminuria. 

Nervous  diseases,  aqua,  242 
aqua  camphora,  255 
aurnm,  315 

chenopodium  ambros.,  447 
ferrum,  746,  747 
ol.  morrliu®, 
ol.  rosmarini,  1149 
passiflora,  1200 
phosphorus,  1220 
plumbi  acetas,  1261 
quinin®  hydrobromas,  1348 
rosmarinus,  1386 
sodii  hypophosph.,  1470 
spir.  ®ther.  comp.,  1495 
tr.  quinin®  anirnon.,  1635 
trochisei  menth®  pip.,  1654 
valeriana,  1682 
zinci  cyanidum,  1735 
zinci  lactas,  1735 
zinci  oxid.,  1727 
zinci  phosphid.,  1729 
zinci  valerianas,  1733 

Nervousness,  acetophenone,  12 
®ther  aceticus,  139 
ammonii  valerianas,  193 
aqua,  242 

aqua  aurantii  flor.,  255 
aqua  camphor®,  255 
aurantii  flores,  254,  313 
ol.  rosmarini,  1149 
parthenium,  1199 
sodii  hypophosph.,  1470 
sodii  valerianas,  1489 
spirit,  setheris  c.,  1495 
spirit,  setheris  nitrosi,  1499 
spirit,  rosmarini,  1508 
tilia,  1602 

tr.  quininse  ammoniata,  1635 
valeriana,  1682 

Neuralgia,  acet.  cantharid.,  15 
acetanilidum,  10 
acid,  arsenos.,  29 
acid,  formic.,  54 
acid,  hydrobromic.,  59 
acid,  salicylic.,  94 
aconitia,  117 
aconitum,  121 
sether,  134,  135 
sethyleni  bichlorid.,  140 
agathin,  232 
alcohol,  155 
ammonii  chlorid.,  187 
ammonii  valerianas,  193 
amyl  nitris,  197 
anthemis,  216 
antipyrinum,  231 
aqua,  242,  243,  246 
aqua  ammonise,  251 
aqua  camphor®,  255 
argenti  iodid.,  278 
argenti  nitras,  283 
atropina,  308 
beberise  sulphas,  326 
belladonna,  329,  653 
benzinum,  334 
cannabis,  395 
cantharis,  401 
capsicum,  405 
carbonei  bisulphid.,  410 
carbonei  tetrachlor.,  411 
cera,  432 
chloral,  458 
chloral  butylicum,  460 
chloroformum,  469 
cicu  a,  477 

119 


Neuralgia — 

cimicifuga,  479 
cinchonidinse  sulph.,  495 
cocaina,  509 
coccus,  512 
codeina,  516 
colchicum,  519 
condurango,  527 
conium,  533 
crocus,  556 

cuprum  ammoniatum,  564 
delphinine,  1514 
elastica,  594 

emplast.  belladonnse,  601 
emplast.  capsici,  601 
ethyl  bichloride,  140 
ext.  belladonnse  fol.  ale.,  653 
ferri  oxidum  hydratum,  736 
ferri  subcarbonas,  736 
ferrum,  747 
gelsemium,  771 
hippocastanum,  814 
hyoscyamus,  856 
iodoformum,  883 
iodum,  892 
kola,  366 

liniment,  aconiti,  939 
liniment,  ammonise,  939 
liniment,  belladonnse,  939 
liniment,  camphora1  c.,  940 
liniment,  chloroformi,  940 
liniment,  terebinthin®  ace- 
tic., 944 

liquor  potassii  arsenitis,  980 

lolium,  997 

menthol,  1035 

methylene  blue,  1037 

metliyli  chloridum,  1038 

methyli  iodidum,  1038 

monarda,  1046 

morphina,  1055 

moxa,  1061 

napelline,  1220 

nectandra,  1078 

niccoli  sulphas,  1080 

ol.  amygdal.  amar.,  1107 

ol.  cajuputi,  1115 

ol.  coriandri,  1121 

ol.  menthse  piper.,  1132 

ol.  sassafras,  1152 

ol.  terebinthin®,  1159,  1160 

ol.  thymi,  1163 

ol.  tiglii,  1165 

opium,  1178,  1179,  1182 

origanum,  1184 

passiflora,  1200 

petroselinum,  1212 

phosphorus,  1219 

physostigma,  1223 

pimenta,  1247 

piscidia,  1252 

plumbi  acetas,  1261 

potassii  bromid.,  1285 

potassii  chloras,  1293 

quininse  sulphas,  1357 

quininse  valerianas,  1363 

salicinum,  1401 

salipyriue,  1405 

salol,  1404 

salophen,  1405 

sinapis,  1448 

sodium  salicylas,  1481 

solanine,  591 

solidago,  1490 

spir.  camphor®,  1502 

stramonium,  1518 

strychnina,  1530 

tr.  cantharidis,  1611 

tr.  quininse  ammoniatse,  1635 

tr.  stramonii,  1638 

ung.  aconiti®,  1660 


Neuralgia— 

ung.  atropi®,  1661 
veratrina,  1689 
zinci  cyanidum,  1735 
zinci  phosphidum,  1729 
zinci  valerianas,  1733 
zingiber,  1737 

Of  stomach,  argenti  nitras, 
282 

Night-blindndss,  physostigma, 
1223 

strychnina,  1530 

Night-sweats.  V.  Sweating. 

Nipple,  retracted,  collod.  flex., 
522 

Nipples,  sore,  acliillea,  17 
acid,  carbolic.,  44 
acid,  picric.,  87 
acid,  tannic.,  109 
alcohol,  155 
ammonii  picricum,  87 
argenti  nitras,  284 
balsam,  peruvian.,  320 
bismuthi  subnitras,  346 
bolus,  349 
catechu,  428 
chloral,  458 
collodium  flexile,  522 
copaiba,  540 
glycerina,  781 
glycerit.  boratis,  784 
gutta-percha,  802 
liydrastis,  850 
krameria,  914 
liq.  sod®  chlorat.,  985 
mel,  1028 
mel  boracis,  1020 
mel  ros®,  1020 
pix  liquida,  1256 
plumbi  nitras,  1264 
quercus,  1342 
quinin®  sulphas,  1360 
sodii  boras,  1459 
symphytum,  1551 
tinct.  benzoini,  1608 
tinct.  catechu,  1613 
ung.  zinci  oxidi,  1673 
zinci  oxid.,  1728 

Nodosity  of  joints,  acid,  arsen., 
29 

iodum,  881 

Noma,  acid,  carbolic.,  42 

Nose,  diseases  of,  cocaina,  507 

Nyctalopia,  physostigma,  1223 

Nymphomania,  camphora,  390 
conium,  533 
dulcamara,  591 
potassii  bromid.,  1286 

OBESITY,  acid,  arsenos.,  29 
fucus  vesiculosus,  758 
Obstetrical  operations,  ®ther 
135 

chloroformum,  466 
hydrarg.  chlor.  corros.,  825 
methyleni  bichlorid.,  1037 
Odors,  fetid,  acid,  sulph uros., 
105 

calx  chlorata,  385 
chloral,  458 
eucalyptus,  629 
liquor  zinci  chloridi,  988 
ol.  thymi,  1163 
potassii  permanganas,  1312 
potassii  sulpliis,  1315 
sodii  sulphis,  1485 
sodium  fluosilicate,  987 
(Edp:ma  of  lungs,  etc.,  pilocar- 
pus, 1232 

(Esophagus,  foreign  body  in, 
apomorphina,  236 


1890 


INDEX  OF  THERAPEUTICS. 


(Esophagus — 
coniurn,  533 
Obstructed,  aqua,  243 
Spasm  of,  amyl  nitris,  198 
atropinae  sulph.,  309 
cocainae  hydrochlor.,  507 
conium,  533 
strychnina,  1530 
Stricture  of,  paucreatinum, 
1190 

Onychia,  plurnbi  nitras,  1265 

Operations,  surgical,  acid,  car- 
bolic., 44 
aether,  135 
aether  methylic,  137 
aethyl  bromid.,  141, 142 
aethyleni  bichlorid.,  140 
alcohol,  156 
amylenum,  201 
carbonei  disulphid.,  410 
chloride  of  ethydene,  140 
chloroformum,  466 
coca,  506 
cocaina,  507 

cocainae  hydrochlor.,  510 
ethydene  chloride,  140 
methyleni  bichloridum,  1037 
methyli  chloridum,  1038 
methyli  iodidum,  1038 
nitrogenii  monoxidum,  1083 
oleum  thymi,  1163 

Ophthalmia,  abrus,  2,  3 
acid,  boric.,  35 
acid,  carbolic.,  43,  44 
alumen,  172 

antimon.  et  potass,  tart.,  220 
aqua,  246 

aq.  hydrogen,  diox.,  263 
argemone,  277 
argenti  nitras,  283 
beberiae  sulphas,  326 
bela,  327 

bismuthi  tannas,  347 
cadmii  sulphas,  358 
calx  chlorata,  385 
cantharis,  401 
catalpa,  423 
cocaina,  506 
conium,  533 
copaiba,  540 
creolinum,  551 
euphrasia,  635 
geranium,  775 
glycerit.  amyli,  784 
hamamelis,  805 
hydrarg.  ammoniat.,  847 
liydrarg.  chlor.  corros.,  824 
iodoform um,  882 
ipecacuanha,  898 
lac,  921 

liq.  ferri  chloridi,  960 
liq.  zinci  chlorid.,  988 
oleum  morrhuae,  1135 
olibanum,  1167 
opium,  1181 
paraffin  um,  1194 
plurnbi  acetas,  1261 
prunus  Virginian.,  1321 
quininae  sulphas,  1359 
rosa  gallica,  1386 
sodii  bicarbonas,  1457 
sodii  pliosphas,  1478 
tabacum,  1576 

ung.  hydrarg.  ammoniat , 
1665 

ung.  zinci  oxid.,  1673 
vin.  opii,  1707 
zinci  acetas,  1720 
zinci  salicylas,  1735 
zinci  sulphas,  1731 

Opium  habit,  amyl  nitris,  199 


Opium  habit — 
aqua,  243 
caffea,  365 
cannabis,  396 
coca,  504 

cocainae  hydrochlor.,  510 
codeina,  516 
ginger,  etc.,  1182 
stimulant  tonics,  1182 
Orchitis,  aqua,  242 

collodium  flexile,  522 
iodoform,  883 
ung.  hydrargyri,  1665 
V.  Testicle,  swelled. 
Osteomalacia,  liq.  calcis,  953 
Otalgia,  curcas,  568 
ol.  cajuputi,  1115 
Otorrhcea,  acid,  boric.,  35 
acid,  carbolic.,  44 
aq.  hydrogen,  diox.,  263 
argenti  nitras,  284 
balsam,  peruvian.,  320 
cadmii  sulphas,  358 
calendula,  377 
creolinum,  551 
glycerin  a,  782 
glycerin,  acid,  tannici,  783 
hydrastis,  850 
iodoformum,  882 
lac,  921 
liq.  calcis,  953 
liq.  sodae  chlorat.,  985 
potassa  sulphurat.,  1274 
potassii  permanganas.  1312 
resorcinum,  1373 
salol,  1404 
sarcocolla,  1420 
Ovarian  cysts,  bromum,  352 
iodum,  881 

Tumors,  calcii  chlor.,  371 
Ovary,  dropsy  of,  potas.  chlor., 
1293 

Ozasna,  acid,  boric.,  36 
acid,  salicylic.,  95 
aldehyde,  1196 
aluminum,  177 
aq.  hydrogen,  diox.,  263 
bismuthi  oxid.,  346 
bismuthi  subnitras,  346 
calx  chlorata,  385 
chloral,  458 
creolinum,  551 
creosotum,  549 
eucalyptus,  628 
gelatina,  769 

glyceritum  acid,  tannici,  783 
hydrarg.  chlor.  corros.,  824 
hydrarg.  oxid.  rubr.,  838 
hydrastis,  783 
iodoformum,  882 
iodum,  891 
krameria,  913 
liq.  sodae  chloratae,  985 
liq.  sodii  silicatis,  987 
menthol,  1035 
plurnbi  nitras,  1264 
potassa  sulph  urata,  1274 
potassii  chloras,  1294 
potassii  permanganas,  1312 
saccharum,  1397 
salol,  1404 

sodii  chloridum,  1468 
sodium  ethylate,  983 

PAIN,  LOCAL,  acetanilidura,  10 
aether,  135 
aethyl  bromid.,  142 
amyl  nitris,  198,  199 
antipyrinum,  230,  231 
aqua, *243,  245 
atropinae  sulph.,  307,  308 


Pain — 

bromum,  352 
carbonei  bisulphid.,  410 
carbonei  tetraehloridum,  411 
cataplasma  sinapis,  424 
chloral,  456 
chloroformum,  469 
clematis,  502 

cocainae  hydrochlor.,  509,  510 
codeina,  516 
Collinsonia,  520 
crocus,  556 
emplast.  arnicae,  601 
emplast.  belladonnae,  601 
emplast.  opii,  604 
hypericum,  858 
iodoformum,  881,  883 
juniperus,  907 
lauro-cerasi  folia,  931 
laurus,  932 
lavandula,  933 
lin.  aconiti,  939 
lin.  ammoniae,  939 
lin.  camphorae,  940 
lin.  chloroformi,  940 
lin.  opii,  941 
lolium,  997 
melilotus,  1031 
methylal,  137 
methylene  blue,  1037 
methyleni  bichlorid.,  1037 
methyli  chloridum,  1038 
morphina,  1054 
ol.  anthemidis,  1111 
ol.  cajuputi,  1115 
ol.  cari,  1116 
ol.  caryophylli,  1118 
ol.  coriandri,  1121 
ol.  foeniculi,  1123 
ol.  hedeomae,  1127 
ol.  lavandulae  florum,  1128 
ol.  menthae  piperitae,  1132 
ol.  rosmarini,  1149 
ol.  sinapis  volat.,  1155 
ol.  succini,  1156 
ol.  terebinthinae,  1160 
opium,  1178, 1180 
papaver,  1192 
parthenium,  1199 
pental,  201 
petroleum,  1211 
phenacetinum,  1215 
piper,  1249 
pyrethrum,  1335 
sinapis,  1448 
sodii  chloridum,  1468 
sodium  salicylas,  1482 
spirit,  camphorae,  1502 
spirit,  rosmarini,  1508 
spirit,  tenuior,  1508 
tinct.  arnicae,  1606 
tinct.  cantliaridis.  1611 
ung.  atropinae,  1661 
ung.  belladonnae,  1661 
ung.  stramonii,  1671 
vinum  album,  1702 
Papilloma,  resorcin,  1373 
Palpitation  of  the  heart, 
aconitum,  121 
ammonii  valerianas,  193 
aqua  aurantii  florum,  255 
aqua  camphorae,  255 
aqua  menthae  piper.,  264 
argenti  nitras,  282 
belladonna,  329 
cam  ph  ora,  390 
campliora  monobromata,  392 
conium,  533 

extract,  pruni  virginianse 
fluid.,  697 
ferrum,  746 


INDEX  OF  THERAPEUTICS. 


1891 


Palpitation — 

hyoscyamus,  855 
mentha  piperita,  1033 
potassii  brornid.,  1286 
primus  virginiana,  1320 
quininae  sulphas,  1357 
valeriaua,  1682 
veratrina,  1689 
veratrum  viride,  1693 
zinci  sulphas,  1731 
Panaris,  aqua,  246 
Pancreas,  torpor  of,  massa 
hydrargyri,  1023 
P annus,  abrus,  2 
iodoformum,  882 
Papilloma,  acid,  chromic.,  47 
resorciuum,  1373 
sp.  aetlieris  nitrosi,  1499 
Paralyis,  alcohol,  154 
aqua,  242,  244,  245 
aqua  miuerales,  272 
aruica,  291 
cantharis,  401 
carlina  acaulis,  877 
cephalauthus,  430 
clematis,  502 
colocynthis,  525 
cubeba,  556 
curcas,  568 
ergota,  621 
euphorbium,  634 
hyoscyamus,  856 
imperatoria,  865 
moxa,  1061 
mucuna,  1064 

ol.  animale  aethereum,  1109 
ol.  cajuputi,  1115 
ol.  phosphorat.,  1143 
ol.  succini,  1156 
petroleum,  1210 
phosphorus,  1219 
picrotoxin,  1228 
potassa  sulphurata,  1274 
potassii  bichromas,  1280 
potassii  carbonas,  1290 
potassii  iodid.,  1307 
primula,  1318 
pulsatilla,  1323 
pyrethrum,  1335 
quininae  sulphas,  1357 
rhus  toxicodendron,  1383 
strychnina,  1529 
sulphur,  1542 
ung.  cantharidis,  1662 
urtica,  1677 

zinci  phosphidum,  1729 
Agitans,  caniphora  monobro- 
mata,  392 
chloral,  457 
hyoscyamus,  856 
Diphtheritic,  strychnina, 
1529 

Of  tongue,  etc.,  carlina  acau- 
lis, 877 

imperatoria,  865 
picrotoxin,  1228 
pyrethrum,  1335 
zingiber,  1737 
Paraphimosis,  aether,  135 
belladonna,  330 
cocaina,  509 

ext.  belladonnae  ale.,  653 
Paraplegia,  belladonna,  330 
ergota,  621 
picrotoxin,  1228 
rhus  toxicodendron,  1383 
strychninae  sulphas,  1529 
Paronychia,  argenti  nitras,  283 
hydrargyrum,  845 
iodoform.,  884 
opium,  1181 


Paronychia — 
potassa,  1272 
ung.  hydrargyri,  1665 
I Pediculi.  V.  Lice. 

I Pemphigus,  acid,  arsenos.,  28 
Penis,  distended,  aqua,  243 
Pericarditis,  aconitum,  121 
cantharis,  441 
digitalis,  585 
hydrarg.  chlor.  mite,  828 
hydrargyrum,  844 
iodoformum,  881 
ung.  iodi,  1669 

Periodical  diseases,  acid,  ar- 
sen.,  28 

quininae  sulphas,  1356 
j Periostoses,  acid,  nitric.,  76 
Peritonitis,  antipyrina,  229 
hydrargyrum,  844 
hydrarg.  chlor.  mite,  828 
iodoformum,  881 
iodum,  892 
opium,  1180 
potassii  carb.,  1290 
ung.  iodi,  1669 

j Perspiration,  belladonna,  330 
I Phagedrna,  cerevisiae  ferment- 
urn,  437 

potassii  chloras,  1294 
| Pharyngitis,  acacia,  8 
acet.  scillae,  16 
achillaea,  17 
acid,  boricum,  36 
acid,  carbolic.,  43 
acid,  chromic.,  49 
acid,  lactic.,  71 
acid,  sulphuros.,  106 
acid,  tartaric.,  112 
agrimonia,  146 
alumen,  172 

aluminum  aceto-tartrate,  172 
ammonii  brornid.,  182 
ammonii  chlorid.,  187 
aqua,  245 

aqua  amnion  iae,  252 
aqua  chlori,  258 
aquae  minerales,  272,  273 
argenti  nitras,  283 
armoracia,  288 
capsicum,  405 
catechu,  428 
cetaceum,  440 
coca,  504 
creolinum,  551 
cubeba,  558 
cupri  sulphas,  563 
decoct,  quercus,  579 
diospyros,  588 
eupatorium,  631 
ext.  glycyrrhizae,  676 
ferrum,  748 
galla,  766 
geranium,  775 
glycerina,  782 
glycerin,  acid,  tannic.,  783 
glycyrrhiza,  787 
granatum,  793 
hedeoma,  806 
heliantliemum,  807 
hordeum,  818 
hydrastis,  850 
hyssopus,  859 
ichthyol,  861 
V.  Petrolatum. 
iufus.  rosae  acid.,  873 
iodum,  891 
jujuba,  906 
liatris,  937 

liniment,  ammoniae,  939 
liq.  aminon.  acetat.,  949 
mel  boracis,  1029 


Pharyngitis — 
mel  rosae,  1030 
myrtus,  1070 
oxymel,  1187 
potassii  brornid.,  1287 
rhus  glabrum,  1381 
salvia,  1406 
sneezewort,  17 
sodii  chlorid.,  1468 
sodii  sulphocarbolas,  1487 
sorbus,  1491 
statice,  1515 
sulphur,  1543 
syrupus  acaciae,  1553 
thea,  1595 
tinct.  gallae.  1620 
trochisci  acid,  tannic.,  1650 
trochisei  catechu,  105L 
trochisci  cubebae,  1652 
zinci  sulphas,  1731 
Pseudo  - membranous,  liquor 
calcis,  953 
mel,  1030 
menthol,  1035 
ol.  ricini,  1146 

Pharynx,  obstructed,  cocainae 
hydrochlor.,  507 
Relaxed,  achillaea,  17 
acid,  tannic.,  110 
alumen,  172 
armoracia,  288 
catechu,  428 
decoct,  quercus,  579 
diospyros,  588 
granatum,  793 
Spasm  of,  moschus,  1060 
Ulcerated,  acid,  chromic.,  45 
argenti  nitras,  283 
Phimosis,  belladonna,  380 
cocaina,  509 

ext.  belladonnae  ale.,  653 
Phlebitis,  cantharis,  401 
Phlegmasia  alba,  cantharis, 
401 

ferrum,  748 
ol.  terebinth  inae,  1160 
Phosphatic  urine,  acid,  ben- 
zoic., 33 

Photophobia,  aether,  134 
belladonna,  330 
cocaina,  507 
conium,  533 

Phthisis,  acid,  arsenos.,  29 
acid,  carbolic.,  42 
acid,  carbonic.,  47 
acid,  hydrofluoric.,  68 
acid,  salicylic.,  94 
acid,  sulphuros.,  106 
acid,  tannic.,  109 
adeps,  125 
aether,  131 
aethyl  iodid.,  143 
agaricin,  144 
alcohol,  154 
alcohol  amylic.,  157 
alcohol  methylic.,  157 
antipyrina,  230 
aqua  chlori,  258 
aq.  hydrogen,  diox.,  263 
aspidosperma,  304 
aurum,  315 
balsamum  peruv.,  320 
calcii  hypophosphis,  373 
calcii  iodidum,  374 
calcii  phosph.  praecip.,  375 
calx  clilorata,  385 
camphoric  acid,  391 
catechu,  428 
cetraria,  441 
creolinum,  551 
creosotum,  549 


1892 


INDEX  OF  THERAPEUTICS. 


Phthisis — 

emplast.  picis.  canthar.,  604 
ferri  bromidum,  717 
ferrum,  747 
glycerinum,  781 
guaiacol,  798,  799 
gynocardia,  803 
hepatica,  811 

bydrarg.  chlor.  corros.,  823 

hydrochinone,  1373 

infus.  pruni  virginianse,  872 

iodoformum,  881,  883 

iodum,  891 

koumys,  922 

lac,  920 

liquor  calcis,  953 
liquor  potassse,  978 
malturn,  1013 
menthol,  1035 
nectandra,  1078 
ol.  morrhuse,  1135 
ol.  olivse,  1141 
ol.  phosphorat.,  1143 
ol.  theobromse,  1162 
opium,  1179 
oxygenium,  1187 
pancreatinum,  1190 
pix  burgundica,  1253 
pix  liquida,  1255 
plumbi  acetas,  1261 
potassa  sulphurata,  1274 
primus  virgiuiana,  1320 
quercus,  1341 
sodii  chloridum,  1467 
sodii  bypophos.,  1470 
sodii  sulphocarbolas,  1487 
taraxacum,  1581 

Pityriasis,  acid,  boric.,  35 
adeps  lanse  bydrosus,  127 
chloral,  458 
chrysarobinum,  476 
glycerit.  boracis,  784 
bydrarg.  chlorid.  corros.,  824 
sodii  boras,  1459 
sulphur,  1542 
tabacum,  1576 
ung.  hydrarg.  ammon.,  1665 

Placenta,  retained,  ergota,  620 

Pleurisy,  ammoniac.,  180 
asclepias,  300 
cantbaris,  400 
digitalis,  585 
emplast.  ferri,  602 
emplast.  galbani,  603 
emplast.  picis  burgundicse,  604 
emplast.  picis  cantliar.,  605 
bydrarg.  chlor.  mite,  828 
hydrochinone,  1373 
iodoformum,  881 
iodum,  892 

liniment,  ammonite,  939 
ol.  terebinthinse,  1160 
opium,  1178 
pilocarpus,  1231 
pix  burgundica,  1253 
pulv.  ipecac,  c.,  1331 
sinapis,  1418 
ung.  iodi,  1669 

Plica  Polonica,  lycopodium, 
1002 

Pneumonia,  aconitum,  121 
aether,  136 
alcohol,  154 
ammonii  carbonas,  184 
amyl  nitris,  198 
antimon.  et  potass,  tart.,  220 
antipyrina,  229 
aqua,  245 
asclepias,  300 
cantbaris,  401 
digitalis,  585 


Pneumonia — 

emplast.  picis  canth.,  603 
bydrarg.  chlor.  corros.,  823 
hydrarg.  chlor.  mite,  828 
hydrargyrum,  844 
hydrochinone,  1373 
ipecacuanha,  896 
moschus,  1060 
ol.  terebinthinse,  1160 
opium,  1178,  1179 
oxygenium,  1187 
plumbi  acetas,  1261 
potassii  carb.,  1290 
potassii  nitras,  1309 
quininae  sulphas,  1357 
salicinum,  1401 
senega,  1438 
serpentaria,  1444 
sinapis,  1448 
veratrina,  1689 
veratrum  viride,  1693 
Poisoned  wounds,  acid,  nitricum 
dil.,  76 

amnionii  chlorid.,  187 
iodum,  892 

liq.  antimonii  chlor.,  950 
Poisoning  by  aconite,  digitalis, 
586 

sapo,  1418 
morphinum,  122 
stimulants,  122 
By  alcohol,  ammonia,  156 
apomorphina,  236 
aqua  ammoniae,  252 
caffea,  364 

liquor  ammoniae  ace  tat.,  949 
sinapis,  1447 

By  alkalies,  acetum,  14 
acid,  nitric.,  52 

By  ammonia,  vegetable  acids, 
252 

By  antimony  (chloride  of), 
acid,  tannic.,  creta,  etc.,  950 
ferrum,  748 
thea,  1595 

By  antipyrine,  alcohol,  232 
By  arsenic,  amylum  iodatum, 
207 

ferri  carbonas  saccharat.,  719 
ferri  oxidum  hydratum,  736 
ferri  oxid.  hydrat.  c.  magne- 
sia, 737 

ferri  subcarbonas,  736 
ferrum,  748 

ferrum  dialysatum,  962 
hydrat.  ferri  oxid.  c.  magne- 
sia, 737 

liquor  calcis,  940,  954 
liquor  ferri  acetatis,  956 
magnesia,  30 
potassa  sulphurata,  1274 
potassii  chloras,  1293 
potassii  iodidum,  1305 
By  barium,  emetics,  etc.,  325 
By  belladonna,  morphina, 
332,  1055 

physostigma,  1223 
pilocarpus,  1233 
By  bromine,  aqua  ammoniae, 
252 

By  Calabar  bean,  atropina, 
308 

chloral,  457 
morphina,  1055 
By  camphor,  alcohol,  390 
By  cannabis,  caffea,  396 
By  cantharides,  emetics,  402 
oleum  olivse,  1141 
By  carbolic  acid,  apomor- 
phina, 236 
oxygenium,  1187 


Poisoning — 

By  carbonic  acid,  amyl  nitris, 
199 

oxygenium,  1186 
By  cashew-nut,  iodum,  892 
By  chloral,  aether,  136 
amyl  nitris,  199 
caffea,  458 
cannabis,  296 
stimulants,  etc.,  458 
strychnina,  457 

By  chlorine,  albumen, etc., 258 
aqua  ammoniae,  252,  471 
By  chloroform,  amyl  nitris, 
etc.,  199,  309,  310,  471 
atropinae  sulph.,  199,  310 
By  cocaine,  amyl  nitris,  511 
chloroform,  strychnine,  etc., 
511 

By  conium,  alcohol,  etc.,  533 
By  copper,  ferrum,  748 
potassa  sulphurata,  1274 
salines,  etc.,  566 
vitellus,  1714 

By  creosote,  wine,  coffee,  etc., 
549 

By  Croton  oil,  olive  oil,  mu- 
cilage, etc.,  1166 
By  daturine,  pilocarpus,  1233 
By  digitalis,  stimulants,  586 
By  gelsemium,  morphina,  771 
By  hydrochloric  acid,  mag- 
nesia, etc.,  63 

By  hydrocyanic  acid,  apo- 
morphina, 236 
aqua  ammoniae,  252 
atropina,  309,  1298 
calx  chlorata,  385 
By  hydrosulphuric  acid, 
calx  chlorata,  385 
By  hyoscine,  chloral,  456 
By  hyoscyamus,  caffaea,  mor- 
phina, etc.,  856,  857 
By  illuminating  gas,  cam- 
phora,  390 

By  iodine,  albumen,  milk,  etc., 
893 

amylum,  206 

By  kerosene,  apomorphina,236 
By  laburnum,  evacuate,  stimu- 
lants, 915 

By  lead,  amylum  iodat.,  207 
aquae  minerales,  272 
ferrum,  748 
magnesii  sulphas,  1260 
potassa  sulphurata,  1260,  1274 
potassii  iodid.,  1260,  1305 
By  lime,  acetum,  14 
thea,  1595 

By  mercurial  salts,  albu- 
men ovi,  147 
amylum  iodate,  207 
ferrum,  748 
lac,  920 
gelatina.  766 
potassa  sulphurata,  1274 
potassii  iodid.,  1305 
thea,  1595 
vitellus,  1714 

By  mezereon,  mucilage,  milk, 
etc.,  1041 

By  mushrooms,  tabacum.  1577 
By  nitrate  of  silver,  chlor- 
ide of  sodium,  285 
By  nitrobenzene,  ammonia, 
etc.,  1082 

By  oil  of  bitter  almond, 
apomorphina,  236 
By  opium,  acetum,  14 
acid,  citric.,  52 
aether,  136 


INDEX  OF  THERAPEUTICS. 


1893 


Poisoning  by  opium — 
alumen,  171 
amyl  nitris,  199 
apomorpliina,  236 
aqua,  242 
atropina,  308,  1182 
ati'opime  sulpli.,  308 
belladonna,  etc.,  331,  1182 
caffea,  364 
cannabis,  396 
gelsemium,  771 
morphina,  1056 
oxygenium,  1187 
picrotoxinum,  1228 
sinapis,  1447 
sodii  cliloridum,  1468 
stimulants,  1181 
thea,  1595 
urtica,  1677 
zinci  sulphas,  1731 
By  oxalic  acid,  liquor  calcis, 
etc.,  82 

By  phosphorus,  cupri  sulphas, 
564 

magnesia,  1220 
ol.  terebinthinse,  1220 
By  physostigma,  atropina,  1223 
belladonna,  332 

By  pilocarpine,  atropina 
sulph.,  309 

By  privy-  gas,  aq.  ammon.,  252 
calx  chlorata,  383 
By  rabid  animals,  iodum,  893  j 
By  rhus  toxicodendron,  an- 
nidalin,  886 
bromum,  352 
cephalanthus,  430 
ext.  serpentaria  fl.,  705 
gelsemium,  771 
grindelia,  795 
sassafras, 

ol.  terebinthinse,  1160 
By  serpents,  alcohol,  155 
euphorbia  prostrata,  633 
iodum,  892 
liquor  potassee,  978 
physostigma,  1224 
potassii  permangan.,  1313 
By  spigelia,  alcohol,  etc.,  1493 
By  stramonium,  opium,  1517 
By  strychnine,  amyl  nitris, 
198 

antipyrina,  231 
apomorphina,  236 
atropina,  308 
belladonna,  330 
caffea,  364 

Calabar  bean,  1531,  1532 
cam ph ora,  390 
charcoal,  1531 
chloral,  457 
chloroformum,  469 
morphina,  1055 
nitrite  of  amyl,  198 
opium,  1170 
paraldehyde,  1196 
physostigma,  1223 
potassii  bromid.,  1285 
tabacum,  1577 
tannin,  1531 
urethanum,  1675 
By  sulphate  of  copper,  albu- 
men ovi,  147 

By  sulphurated  hydrogen. 
V.  Poisoning  by  hydro- 
sulphuric  acid. 

By  sulphuric  acid,  carbon- 
ates of  alkalies  and  earths, 
103 

By  sumach,  Collinsonia,  520 
convallaria  polygouatum,  536 ; 


Poisoning — 

By  tartar  emetic,  galla,  etc., 
. 221,  766 
thea,  1595 

By  tobacco,  vin.  album,  1702 
By  veratrum  viride,  stimu- 
lants, 1694 

Narcotic,  acetum,  14 
alcohol,  155 
alumen,  171 
oxygenium,  1187 
sinapis,  1447 
sodii  chloridum,  1468 
zinci.  sulphas,  1731 
Poisons,'  corrosive,  albumen 
ovi,  147 
gelatina,  769 
lac,  920 

saccharum,  1397 
Polypus,  acid,  acetic.,  22 
acid,  carbolic.,  43 
acid,  tannic.,  109 
alcohol,  155 
aluminii  sulph.,  177 
cocainse  hydrochlor.,  507 
ergota,  620 
ferrum,  748 

potassii  bichromas,  1280 
sabina,  1393 
sodium  ethylate,  983 
tabacum,  1576 
teucrium,  1589 
zinci  chloridum,  1724 
Nasal,  acid,  acetic.,  22 
cocainse  hydrochlor.,  507 
tabacum,  1576 
teucrium,  1589 
zinci  chloridum,  1724 
zinci  sulphas,  1731 
Polysarcia,  iodum,  891 
Polyuria,  acid,  gallic.,  56 
alumen,  171 
antipyrinum,  231 
creosotum,  549 
ergota,  620,  621 
pilocarpus,  1233 
sodium  salicylas,  1481 
Valeriana,  1683 
Porrigo,  picrotoxin,  1228 
Pott’s  disease,  calcii  hypophos., 
273 

calcii  sulphas,  376 
Pregnancy,  vomiting  of,  dul- 
camara, 591 
laburnum,  915 
potassii  bromid.,  1286 
vin.  ipecacuanhse,  1706 
Prepuce,  cedema  of,  glyceri- 
num,  782 

Priapism,  aqua  frigida,  243 

camphora  rnonobromata,  392 
humulus,  819 
lupulina,  1000 
potassii  bromid.,  1286 
potassii  iodidum,  1306 
veratrum  viride,  1693 
Prolapsus  ani,  acid,  tannic.,  110 
bolus,  349 

decoct,  quercus,  579 
ung.  gallse,  1663 
Uteri,  acid,  tannic.,  110 
decoct,  quercus,  579 
Prostate,  enlarged,  ammon. 
chlorid.,  187 
aqua,  246 
argenti  nitras,  285 
potassii  bromidum,  1287 
Prurigo,  acid.  acet.  dil.,  22 
acid,  arsenos.,  28 
acid,  boric.,  36 
acid,  carbolic.,  44 


Prurigo — 

acid,  citric.,  52 
ammonii  bromid.,  182 
aqua  creosoti,  259 
lielianthemum,  807 
liydrarg.  chlor.  corros.,  824 
hvdrocotyle,  851 
iodoform.,  882 
naphthalinum,  1072 
petroleum,  1211 
pilocarpus,  1233 
pix  liquida,  1256 
sapo,  1418 
sodii  boras,  1459 
sodii  carbonas  exsiccatus,  1465 
sodii  hyposulphis,  1472 
sulphur,  1542 
ung.  hydrargyri,  1665 
ung.  hydrarg.  ammon.,  1665 
ung.  picis  liquidae,  1669 
Pruritus,  acid,  boric.,  36 
acid,  citric.,  53 
acid,  hydrocyan,  dil.,  67 
aluminii  nitras,  177 
aqua  ammoniae,  252 
. balsam,  peruvianum,  320 
cannabis,  395 
cocainae  hydrochlor.,  510 
conium,  533 
creosotum,  549 
gelsemium,  771 
glycerinum,  782 
iodoform,  882 
menthol,  1035 
oleatum  hydrargyri,  1098 
paraldehyde,  1196 
pilocarpus,  1232 
quininae  sulph.,  1360 
sodii  bicarbonas,  1456 
sodii  boras,  1559 
sodii  carbonas  exsiccata,  1465 
sodii  chlorid.,  1468 
sodium  salicylas,  1481 
teucrium,  1589 
veratrina,  1689 
veratrum  album,  1691 
Vulv.®,  acid,  citric.,  53 
aqua  ammon iae,  252 
aluminii  nitras,  177 
balsam,  peruvianum,  320 
hydrarg.  chlor.  corros.,  824 
iodoform.,  882 
mel  boracis,  1029 
oleatum  hydrargyri,  1098 
quininae  sulph.,  i360 
sodii  boras,  1459 
sodii  carbonas  exsiccatus,  1465 
sodii  chloridum,  1468 
sodii  hyposulphis,  1472 
ung.  hydrargyri, 
veratrum  album,  1691 
Psoriasis,  acid,  acetic.,  22 
acid,  arsenos.,  28 
acid,  boric.,  35 
acid,  salicylic.,  95 
ammonii  iodid.,  189 
anthrarobin,  476 
berberis,  337 
calx,  381 
cantharis,  400 
chrysarobinum,  475 
copaiba,  539 
galla-cetophenone,  1336 
gutta-percha,  802 
gynocardia,  803 
hydrarg.  chlor.  corros.,  824 
hydroxylamin,  476 
iodoform.,  882 
iodum,  891 
lappa,  929 

liq.  potassii  arsenitis,  980 


1894  INDEX  OF  THERAPEUTICS. 


Psoriasis — 

naphtol,  1075 
ol.  morrhu®,  1125 
ol.  thy  mi,  1163 
paraffinum,  1194 
pix  liquida,  1256 
potassa  sulphurata,  1274 
potassii  iodidum,  1306 
pyrogallol,  1336 
sapo,  1418 
sulphur,  1542 

ung.  hydrarg.  ammon.,  1665 
uug.  picis  liquid®,  1669 
Ptyalism,  iodum,  891 
Puerperal.  Y.  Convulsion, 
Fever. 

Pupil,  to  contract  the,  phy- 
sostigma,  1222 
pilocarpus,  1232 
To  dilate  the,  atropina,  309 
atropine  santonate,  310 
belladonn®  ext.  fol.  ale.,  653 
ephedrin,  310 

homatropine  hydrobrom.,  310 
hyoscyamus,  856 
liq.  atropin®  sulph.,  941 
scopolina,  310 
stramonium,  1519 
Purpura,  acid,  gallic.,  56 
acid,  sulphuric.,  102 
cerevisi®  ferment.,  438 
ergota,  620,  622 
laricis  cortex,  930 
ol.  terebinthin®,  1158 
oxalis,  1185 
tr.  ferri  chloridi,  1619 
tr.  laricis,  1626 

Pustule,  malignant,  aether,  134 
hydrarg.  chlorid.  corros.,  824 
juglans,  905 

liq.  antimonii  chlorid.,  950 
Putrefaction,  acid,  carbolic.,  41 
acid,  salicylic.,  95 
aluminii  acetas,  177 
aluminii  chlorid.,  177 
calcii  sulphis,  376 
calx,  380 

calx  chlorata,  385 
carbo  ligni,  409 
creosotum,  549 
eucalyptus,  629 
liq.  sodii  silicatis,  986 
liq.  zinci  chlorid.,  988 
plumbi  nitras,  1264 
potassii  sulphis,  1315 
sodii  bisulphis,  1457 
sodii  hyposulphis,  1472 
sodii  sulphis,  1485 
sodii  sulphocarbolas,  1487 
Putrid  discharges,  liq.  zinci 
chlorid.,  988 
plumbi  nitras,  1264 
sodii  hyposulphis,  1472 
sodii  sulphis,  1485 
Pyemia,  alcohol,  154 

quinin®  sulphas,  1360 
sodii  hyposulphis,  1472 
zinci  sulphocarbolas,  1735 
V.  Septicaemia. 

Pyelitis,  buchu,  356 
juniperus,  907 
liquidambar,  947 
liquor  calcis,  953 
ol.  santali,  1151 
ol.  terebinthinae,  1159 
pareira,  1198 
uva  ursi,  1680 
Pyrosis,  acid,  gallic.,  56 
kino,  912 
magnesia,  1005 
pulv.  kino  c.,  1331 


QUINSY,  apomorphina,  236 
argenti  nitras,  283 
potassii  permangan.,  1312 

RABIES,  curare,  567 

Bachitis,  calcii  hypophos., 
373 

humulus,  818 
liquor  calcis,  953 
ol.  morrhuae,  1135 
pancreatinum,  1190 
phosphorus,  1220 
sodii  phosphas.,  1478 
Eectum,  diseases  of,  ext.  bella- 
donnas. ale.,  653 
Engorged,  aqua,  243 
galla,  766 
gelatina,  769 

suppositor.  acid,  carbolici, 
1549 

suppositor.  acid,  tannic.,  1549 
suppositor.  plumbi  c.,  1550 
tinct.  catechu  c.,  1613 
ung.  atropinae,  1661 
ung.  belladonnae,  1661 
ung.  gall®,  1663 
ung.  stramonii,  1671 
Inflamed,  alth®a,  169 
amylum,  206 
gelatina,  769 

Prolapsus  of,  ergota,  621 
decoctum  quercus,  579 
galla,  766 
garcinia,  766 
geranium,  775 
hydrastis,  850 
liq.  ferri  chloridi,  961 
strychnina,  1530 
Belax^d,  alumen,  172 
decoct,  quercus,  579 
galla,  766 
geranium,  775 

liquor  bismuth,  et  ammon. 
citr.,  952 

liquor  ferri  chlor.,  961 
suppositor.  acid,  carbolic., 
1549 

suppositor.  acid,  tannic.,  1549 
tr.  gall®,  1620 
Spasm  of,  chloroform,  469 
Betina,  congested,  ergota,  622 
Anaemic,  amyl  nitris,  199 
Eetinitis,  santoninum,  1416 
Eheumatism,  acetanilid,  10 
acetonum,  12 
acet.  cantharid.,  15 
acid,  benzoic.,  33 
acid,  carbolic.,  44 
acid,  carbonic.,  47 
acid,  citric.,  52 
acid,  formic.,  54 
acid,  nitrohydrochlor.,  76 
acid,  salicylic.,  91 
acid,  succinic.,  97 
aconitina,  117 
aconitum,  121 
agathin,  232 
ammoniacum,  180 
ammonii  bromid.,  181 
ammonii  chlorid.,  187 
ammonii  iodid.,  189 
ammonii  phosphas,  191 
angelica,  210 
anthemis,  210 

antimon.  et.  potass,  tart.,  220 
antipyrina,  230,  231 
ants,  402 

aqua,  241,  243,  244,  245,  246 
aqua  ammoni®,  251 
aqu®  minerales,  271,  272,  273 
aralia  spinosa,  275 


Eheumatism — 
asclepias,  300 

atherospermia  moschata,  348 
belladonna,  330 
benzinum,  334 
benzoinum  odoriferum,  932 
betula,  338 

bignonia  capriolata,  423 
bryonia,  354 
calcium  sulphide,  385 
cannabis,  395 
cantharis,  401 
capsicum,  405 
carex,  1426 
carthamus,  415 
cataplasma  sinapis,  424 
cera,  432 

cerat.  camphor®,  434 
chimaphila,  448 
chloroformum,  469 
cicuta,  477 
cimicifuga,  479 
clematis,  502 
codeina,  516 
colchicum,  519 
Collinsonia,  520 
Comptonia,  526 
condurango,  527 
confectio  terebinthin®,  530 
crocus,  556 
curcas,  568 

decoct,  sarsaparill®  comp., 
580 

dracontium,  589 
dulcamara,  591 
emplast.  ammoniac,  c.  hydr., 
600 

emplast.  arnic®,  601 
emplast.  belladonn®,  601 
emplast.  capsici,  601 
emplast.  ferri,  602 
emplast.  galbani,  602 
emplast.  hydrarg.,  603 
emplast.  picis  burgund.,  604 
emplast.  picis  cantharid.,  605 
emplast.  plumbi  iodidi,  607 
ergota,  622 
eupatorium,  631 
euphorbium,  634 
franciscea,  755 
fraxinus,  757 
geum,  776 
guaiaci  resina,  798 
gynocardia,  603 
hedeoma,  806 
hippocastanum,  814 
humulus,  819 
hydracetin,  1216 
hydrarg.  chlor.  corros.,  824 
hydrarg.  chlor.  mite,  829 
hydrocotyle,  851 
hydroxylamine,  1076 
hyssopus,  859 
ichthyol,  861 
ilex,  863 
illicium,  864 
iodum,  892 
juniperus,  907 
lac,  922 
lappa,  929 
laurus,  982 
lavandula,  933 
leonurus,  934 
liniment,  aconiti,  939 
liniment,  ammoni®,  939 
liniment,  belladonn®,  939 
liniment,  camphor®,  940 
liniment,  camphor®  c..  940 
liniment,  chloi’oformi , 940 
liniment,  crotonis,  941 
liniment,  iodi,  941 


INDEX  OF  THERAPEUTICS. 


1895 


Rheumatism— 

liniment,  opii,  941 
liniment,  saponis,  942 
liniment,  terebinthinge,  943 
liniment,  terebinth,  acet.,  944 
liq.  ammonii  acetat.,  949 
lithii  salicylas,  994 
lolium,  997 
magnolia,  1013 
methacetin,  1216 
methylene  blue,  1037 
mezereum,  1040 
monarda,  1046 
morphina,  1046 
moxa,  1061 
mucilago  ulmi,  1063 
naphthalol,  1075 
ol.  animal,  tether.,  1109 
ol.  anthemidis,  1111 
ol.  cajuputi,  1115 
ol.  coriandri,  1121 
ol.  gaultherige,  1124 
ol.  hedeomge,  1127 
ol.  menthge  pip.,  1132 
ol.  morrhuge,  1135 
ol.  myristicge  exp.,  1138 
ol.  rosmarini,  1149 
ol.  sinapis  volat.,  1156 
ol.  succini,  1156 
ol.  terebinthinge,  1160 
ol.  thymi,  1163 
ol.  tiglii,  1165 
ononis  spinosa,  788 
opium,  1181 
origanum,  1184 
petroleum,  1211 
phenacetinum,  1215 
phenocoll,  1216 
physostigma,  1223 
phytolacca,  1226 
pilocarpus,  1233 
pil.  antimonii  c.,  1240 
pimenta,  1247 
piper.  1249 
piscidia,  1252 
pix  burgundica,  1253 
potassa  sulphurat,  1274 
potassii  acetas,  1276 
potassii  carbonas,  1290 
potassii  cyanidum,  1297 
potassii  iodid.,  1306 
potassii  nitias,  1309 
potassii  permanganas,  1312 
potassii  salicylas,  1482 
pulsatilla,  1323 
pulv.  ipecacuanhge  et  opii, 
1331 

quininge  sulph.,  1358,  1359 
ranunculus,  1364 
red  ants,  402 
sabbatia,  1391 
sabina,  1392 
salicinum,  1401 
salipyrine,  1405 
salol,  1404 
salophin,  1405 
salvia,  1406 
sanguinaria,  1409 
saponaria,  1420 
sarsaparilla,  1425 
serum  lactis,  922 
sinapis,  1447 
sodii  bicarb.,  1456 
sodii  chloridum,  1468 
sodii  salicylas,  1482 
sodium  di-iodo  salicylata, 
1482 

solanina,  591 
solidago,  1490 
spirit,  tenuior,  1508 
stramonium,  1519 


Rheumatism— 
sulphur,  1543 
syr.  ferri  iodid.,  1560 
tabacum,  1576 
tanacetum,  1579 
terebinthina,  1587 
thea,  1595 
thuya,  1598 
tr.  ferri  chloridi,  1620 
tr.  guaiaci,  1622 
tr.  stramonii,  1638 
tr.  zingiberis,  i.642 
trimethylamina,  1645,  1646 
ung.  cantharidis,  1662 
veratrina,  1689 
yinum  ipecacuanhge,  1706 
xanthoxylum,  1717 
zinci  cyanidum,  1735 
zingiber,  1737 
Rhinitis,  quillaia,  1342 
Ring,  gold,  to  remove,  hydrar- 
gyrum, 845 
Ringworm,  arum,  294 
chrysarobinum,  475 
juglans,  905 
sodium  ethylate,  983 
ung.  hydrarg.  amnion.,  1665 
ung.  picis  liquidge,  1669 
Of  scalp,  acid,  carbolic.,  44 
calcium  sulphide,  385 
chrysarobinum,  475 
iodoform,  882 
menthol,  1035 
ol.  terebinthinge,  1160 
ol.  tiglii,  1160 
picrotoxin,  1228 
sodii  boras,  1459 
ung.  hydrarg.  ammoniat., 
1669 

SALIVATION,  acid,  tannic., 
110 

alumen,  192 
ambrosia,  178 

antimon.  et.  potass,  tart.,  221 
argenti  nitras,  284 
atropina,  309 
belladonna,  331 
calx  chlorata,  385 
cocaina,  508 
iodum,  890 

liquor  sodge  chlorat.,  985 
marrubium,  1020 
ol.  terebinthinge,  1160 
pilocarpus,  1232 
potassii  chloras,  1292 
sodii  boras,  1459 
sodii  chlorid.,  1468 
Sarcoma,  acid,  arsenos.,  30 
Satyriasis,  camphora,  390 
conium,  533 
dulcamara,  591 
potassii  bromid., 

Scabies,  acid,  oxynaphtoic.,  45 
acid,  sulphuric.,  102 
acid,  sulphuros , 105 
adeps  lange  liydr.,  125 
anthemis,  216 
aqua  chlori,  258 
balsam,  peruvian.,  320 
benzinum,  334 
betula,  338 
bryonia,  354 
calx  chlorata,  385 
calx  sulph u rata,  385 
camphora,  390 
clematis,  502 
frangula,  756 
gynocardia,  803 
liquidambar,  947 
naphthalinum,  1072 


Scabies— 

naphthol,  1075 
nitrobenzenum,  1082 
ol.  terebinthinge,  1160 
ol.  thymi,  1163 
paraffinum,  1194 
petroleum,  1211 
phytolacca,  1226 
pix  liquida,  1256 
potassa  sulphurata,  1274 
rumex,  1388 
sabadilla,  1390 
sapo,  1418 
scrophularia,  1434 
sinapis,  1447 
sodii  sulphis,  1485 
staphisagria,  1513 
styrax,  1534 
sulphur,  1542 
tabacum,  1576 
terebinthina,  1587 
ung.  picis  liquid.,  1669 
ung.  potassge  sulphuratge, 
1670 

ung.  sulphuris,  1672 
veratrum  album,  1691 
veronica,  1695 

Scalds,  aqua,  241,  242 

calcii  carb.  prgecip.,  379 
ceratum  resinge,  436 
creta  prgeparata,  554 
farina  tritici,  714 
gossypium  purificat.,  791 
iodum,  891 

liniment,  terebinthinge,  943 
menthol,  1035 
ol.  menthge  piperitge,  1132 
plumbi  carbonas,  1263 
zinci  oxid.,  1728 

Scarlatina,  acid,  salicylic.,  93 
aconitinum,  117 
adeps,  125 
ammonii  carb.,  184 
aqua,  240,  245 
aqua  chlori,  258 
aq.  hydrogen,  diox.,  263 
baptisia,  322 
belladonna,  339 
capsicum,  405 
eucalyptus,  628 
helianthemum,  808 
hydrochinone,  1373 
liq.  sodge  chlorat.,  985 
oxygenium,  1187 
potassii  chloras,  1293 
sodii  sulphocarbolas,  1487 

Schirrus.  V.  Cancer. 

Sciatica,  acid,  carbolic.,  44 
acid,  salicylic.,  94 
aconitum,  121 
gether,  135 

ammonii  chlorid.,  187 
antipyrinum,  231 
aqua,  243 
argenti  nitras,  283 
belladonna,  329 
cantharides,  401 
copaiba,  540 
euphorbium,  634 
moxa,  1061 

ol.  animale  gethereum,  1109 
ol.  terebinthinge,  1159 
ol.  tiglii,  1165 
pilocarpus,  1233 
pix  burgundica,  1253 
potassii  iodid.,  1306 
ranunculus,  1364 
thapsia,  1592 
veratrina,  1689 

Sclerosis  of  spinal  cord,  po- 
tassii iodid.,  1307 


1896 


INDEX  OF  THERAPEUTICS. 


Sclerotitis,  acid,  salicylic.,  93 
copaiba,  540 

Scrofula,  acid,  hydrochloric.,  63 
acid,  nitric.,  76 
acid,  nitrohydrochlor.,  78 
acid,  phosphoric,  dil.,  86 
annidalin,  886 
aqua,  241,  245 
aquae  minerales,  272,  273 
aurum,  315 

balsam,  peruvian.,  320 
barii  chloridum,  325 
betula,  338 
bromum,  352 
cadmii  iodidum,  358 
calcii  chloridum,  371 
calcii  hypophosphis,  373 
calcii  iodidum,  374 
calendula,  377 
calx  chlorata,  385 
chelidonium,  446 
chimaphila,  448 
clematis,  502 
cochlearia,  514 
conium,  532 
cupri  acetas,  561 
decoct,  sarsaparill®  comp., 
580 

emplast.  ammoniaei  c.  hydr., 
600 

euphorbium,  634 
ferri  bromidum,  717 
ferri  sulphas,  742 
ferrum,  748 
fucus  vesiculosus,  758 
galium,  764 
geum,  776 
gynocardia,  803 
helianthemum,  807 
humulus,  818 
iodum,  891 
juglans,  905 
lac,  920 
lappa,  929 

liq.  ferri  chloridi,  961 
liq.  potass®,  978 
menispermum,  1032 
ol.  morrhu®,  1135 
ol.  phosphorat.,  1142 
pancreatinum,  1190 
phytolacca,  1226 
pil.  ferri  iodidi.,  1243 
potassii,  1272 
potassa  chloras,  1293 
potassa  sulphurata,  1274 
quinin®  sulphas,  1359 
scrophularia,  1434 
sedum,  1435 

sodii  carbonas  exsiccatus, 
1465 

sodii  chloridum,  1468 
sodii  hypophosphis,  1470 
sodii  phosplias,  1478 
stillingia,  1515 
sulphur,  1542 
syr.  ferri  iodid.,  1560 
tayuya,  354 
teucrium,  1589 
tussilago,  1657 
Scurvy,  acid,  citric.,  52 
acid,  sulphuric.,  102 
agrimonia,  146 
arraoracia,  288 
betula,  338 
cochlearia,  514 
liq.  sod®  chlorat®,  985 
monesia,  1047 
oxalis,  1185 
pix  liquida,  1256 
potassii  nitras,  1309 
Sea-sickness,  ®ther,  134 


Sea-sickness — 

amyl  nitris,  198 
antipyrinum,  231 
capsicum,  405 
cerii  oxalas,  439 
cocain®  hydrochl.,  510 
morphina,  1055 
opium,  1180 

potassii  bromidum,  1286 
sodii  bromidum,  1461 
trochisci  menth®  piperit®, 
1654 

yin.  album,  1702 

Seborrhcea,  zinci  sulphid.,  1732 
Seminal  emissions,  arg.  nitras, 
285 

antipyrinum,  231 
belladonna,  330 
cantharis,  400 
cimicifuga,  479 
coca,  504 
digitalis,  586 
ferrum,  747 
humulus,  819 
hyoscyamus,  856 
liq.  ferri  chloridi,  960 
lupulinum,  1000 
ol.  phosphoratum,  1143 
potassii  brornid.,  1286 
tr.  ferri  chloridi,  1620 
Septicaemia,  eucalyptus,  628 
quinin®  sulphas,  1359 
sodii  hyposulphis,  1472 
zinci  sulphocarbolas,  1735 
V.  Pyemia. 

Serpents’  bites,  agave,  145 
alcohol,  155 
ammonii  carb.,  184 
ammonii  chlorid.,  187 
aqua  ammoni®,  252 
aralia  spinosa,  275 
contrayerva,  534 
euphorbia  prostrata,  633 
hieracium,  813 
liatris,  937 
liq.  potass®,  978 
ol.  oliv®,  1141 
pilocarpus,  1233 
prenanthes,  1317 
Setons,  cerat.  sabin®,  436 
mezereum,  1040 

Sexual  excitement,  camphora, 
390 

conium,  533 
potassii  brornid.,  1286 
salix,  1402 
Shock,  alcohol,  154 

atropin®  sulph.,  309 
Sialorrhcea,  atropina,  309 
Skin,  diseases  of,  acid,  acetic., 
22 

acid,  arsenos.,  28 
acid,  boric.,  36 
acid,  chromic.,  49 
acid,  liydrochlor.  dil.,  63 
acid,  hydrocyan,  dil.,  67 
acid,  nitro-hydrochlor.  dil.,  78 
acid,  oleic.,  80 
acid,  salicylic.,  94 
adeps  lan®  hydros.,  127 
alth®a,  169 
ammonii  iodid.,  189 
amylum,  206 

antimonii  et  potass,  tart.,  220 
antipyrinum,  231 
annidalin,  886 
aqua,  244 
aqua  chlori,  258 
aqu®  minerales,  271,  272,  273 
arsenici  iodid.,  292 
barium,  325 


Skin,  diseases  of — 
benzinum,  334 
betula,  338 
bromum,  352 
cadmium  iodide,  358 
calcii  chlorid.,  371 
calcium  sulphide,  385 
calx  sulphurata,  385 
cantharis,  399,  400 
carota,  415 
chelidonium,  446 
clematis,  502 
colchicum,  519 
conium,  533 
copaiba,  540 
corydalis,  545 
creosotum,  549 
creolinum,  551 
creta  pr®parata,  554 
cupri  acetas,  561 
cupri  subacetas,  561 
cupri  sulphas,  564 
curcas,  568 
cydonium,  573 
decoct,  quercus,  579 
decoct,  sarsaparill®  comp.,  580 
dulcamara,  591 
elastica,  594 
ergota,  622 
ferri  chloridum,  721 
ferri  sulphas,  742 
ferrum,  736 
fumaria,  759 
fungus  muscarius,  760 
galium,  764 
gelatina,  769 
geranium,  775 
glycerinum,  782 
glycerin,  acid,  carbolic.,  782 
glycerin,  acid,  tannic.,  783 
glycerin,  boracis,  784 
glycerit.  aluminis,  783 
glycerit.  amyli,  784 
guano,  800 
gutta-percha,  802 
gynocardia,  803 
hydrarg.  chlor.  corros.,  824, 
825 

hydrarg.  chlor.  mite,  830 
hydrargyrum  ammoniatum, 
847 

hydrocotyle,  851 
iberis,  514 
ichthyocolla,  860 
ichthyol,  1209 
iodoform,  882 
iodum,  891 
juglans,  905 
lappa,  929 
linaria,  938 

liniment,  saponis  mollis,  943 
liq.  ammonii  acetatis,  949 
liq.  arsenii  ethydrargvri  iod., 
951 

liq.  calcis,  953 
liq.  calcis  chlorinati,  954 
liq.  plumbi  subacetatis,  974 
liq.  potassii  arsenitis,  980 
menthol,  1035 
menyanthes,  1036 
mezereum,  1040 
mistura  ferri  c.,  1043 
mucilago  cydonii,  1063 
mucilago  sassaf.  moduli.,  1063 
mucilago  ulmi,  1063 
naphthalinum,  1072 
naphtol,  1075 
cenothera,  1088 
oil,  Kurung,  1154 
ol.  cadinum,  1114 
ol.  cajuputi,  1115 


INDEX  OF  THERAPEUTICS. 


1897 


Skin,  diseases  of — 
ol.  Deelin®,  1211 
ol.  morrliu®,  1135 
ol.  picis  liquid®,  1143 
ol.  ricini,  1146 
ol.  thymi,  1163 
olibanum,  1167 
paraffinum,  1184 
phosphorus,  1210 
phytolacca,  1226 
pierotoxinum,  1228 
pilocarpus,  1233 
pil.  antimouii  c.,  1240 
pix  liquida,  1256 
potassa  sulpliurata,  1274 
potassii  acetas,  1276 
potassii  bicarb.,  1278 
potassii  carb.,  1290 
potassii  permanganas,  1312 
prinos,  1319 
pulsatilla,  1323 
quillaja,  1342 
resorcin,  1373 

rhinacanthus  communis,  1380 
rhus  toxicodendron,  1383 
rumex,  1388 
ruta,  1390 
salol,  1404 
sanguinaria,  1409 
sapo,  1418 
saponaria,  1420 
sarsaparilla,  1425 
sassafras,  1427 
scrophularia,  1434 
sedum,  1435 

sempervivum  tectorum,  1435 
sinapis,  1448 

sodii  carbonas  exsiccatus,  1464 
sodii  hyposulphis,  1472 
sodii  iodidum,  1473 
soziodol,  887 
stillingia,  1515 
sulphur,  1542 
sulphuris  iodidum,  1544 
syr.  ferri  iodidi,  1560 
tabacum,  1576 
terebinthina,  1587 
tinct.  aloes,  1605 
tinct.  benzoini,  1608 
triticum,  1648 
ulmus,  1658 

ung.  acidi  carboliei,1569 
ung.  hydrarg.  ammon.,  1665 
ung.  hydrarg.  subchlorid., 
1668 

ung.  oxid.  nitratis,  1668 
ung.  picis  liquid®.  1669 
ung.  plumbi  iodidi,  1670 
ung.  sulphuris  iodidi,  1672 
ung.  zinci  oxid.,  1673 
urtica,  1677 
veronica,  1695 
viola,  1712 
vitellus,  1714 
zinci  oxid.,  1728 
Relaxed,  decoct,  quercus,  579 
Sleeplessness.  V.  Insomnia. 
Sloughing,  acid,  nitric,  dil.,  76 
Small-pox.  aqua  chlori,  258 
argenti  nitras,  284 
collodium  flexile,  522 
emplast.  hydrargyri,  603 
hydrargyrum,  845 
iodum,  891 

quinin®  sulphas,  1358 
ung.  hydrargyri,  1665 
Smells,  foul,  acid,  carbolic.,  41 
acid,  sulphuros.,  105,  106 
aluminii  sulph.,  177 
caffea,  365 
calx,  380 


I Smells,  foul — 

calx  chlorata,  385 
carbo  animalis,  406 
carbo  ligni,  409 
chloral,  458 
creolinum,  550,  552 
eucalyptus,  628,  629 
liq.  calcis  chlorinat®,  954 
liq.  zinci  chlorid.,  988 
lysol,  45 

ol.  terebinthin®,  1160 
olibanum,  1169 
pix  liquida,  1256 
plumbi  nitras,  1264 
potassii  permangan.,  1312 
saccharum,  1397 
styrax,  1534 
terebene,  1584 
V.  Fetor. 

Sore  throat,  acet.  scill®,  16 
achillea,  17 
acid,  carbolic.,  42 
alnus,  161 
aqua,  241,  245 
argenti  nitras,  283 
catechu,  428 
cupri  sulphas,  563 
eupatorium,  631 
hordeum,  818 
hyssopus,  859 
jujuba,  906 
kino,  912 
liatris,  937 

liniment,  ammoni®,  939 
mori  succus,  1048 
ol.  ricini,  1146 
salvia,  1406 
statice,  1515 

Spasm,  acid,  hydrobromic.  dil.,  58 
®ther,  135 
ammonii  carb.,  184 
amyl  nitris,  198 
aqua,  241,  242,  245 
aqua  ammoni®,  251 
atropina,  308,  309 
belladonna,  329,  330 
camphora,  369 
cantliaris,  401 
cannabis,  396 
chloral,  457 
chloral  butylicum,  460 
chloroformum,  469 
codeina,  516 
conium,  533 
galega,  763 
humulus,  819 
morphina,  1055 
opium,  1179 
pierotoxinum,  1228 
potassii  bromidum,  1286 
strychnina,  1530 
tabacum,  1576 
ung.  atropi®,  1661 
ung.  belladonn®,  1661 
ung.  stramonii,  1671 
vin.  album,  1702 
Of  ureter,  larynx,  etc., 
amyl  nitris,  198 
aqua,  241 
atropinum,  308 
belladonna,  330 
camphora,  390 
chloroform,  469 
ung.  belladonn®,  1661 

Spermatorrhoea,  argenti  nitras, 
285 

atropin®  sulph.,  309 
coca,  504 

ferri  bromidum,  717 
potassii  bromidum,  1286 
tr.  ferri  chlorid.,  1620 


Spermatorrhoea — 

V.  Seminal  emissions. 

Spina  bifida,  collodium  flexile, 
522 

iodum,  892 

Spinal  congestion,  argenti 
nitras,  282 
ergota,  621 

extract,  ergot®  fl.,  670 
potassii  bromid.,  1285 
Irritation,  cantharis,  401 
potassii  bromid.,  1286 
Spine,  caries  of,  calcii  hypo- 
phospli.,  373 
calcii  sulphas,  376 
Spleen,  enlarged,  acid,  arse- 
nos.,  29 
berberis,  337 
bromum,  352 
bryonia,  354 

emplast.  hydrargyri,  603 
ergota,  621 
ferrum,  747 
hydrargyrum,  844 
moxa,  1061 
plumbi  iodidum,  1264 
potassii  acetas,  1276 
potassii  bromid.,  1286 
ung.  hydrargyri,  1665 
Sprains,  alcohol,  155. 
alnus,  161 
anthemis,  216 
aqua,  242,  244 
arnica,  291 
collodium  flexile,  522 
liniment,  belladonn®,  939 
liniment,  camphor®,  940 
liniment,  camph.  c.,  940 
liniment,  saponis,  942 
liniment,  terebinthin®,  943 
liq.  plumbi  subacetatis,  974 
naphthalinum,  1072 
oleum  anthemidis,  1111 
oleum  oliv®,  1141 
oleum  palm®,  1142 
oleum  rosmarini,  1149 
plumbi  acetas,  1261 
tanacetum,  1579 
terebinthina,  1587 
Stains  of  nitrate  of  silver, 
potassii  cyanid.,  285 
Staphyloma,  liq.  antimouii  chlo- 
rid., 950 

Sterility,  aqu®  minerales,.272 
ol.  sabin®,  1150 
sabina,  1392 

Stings  of  insects,  acid,  carbolic., 
44 

albumen  ovi,  147 
aqua,  241 

aqua  hydrogen,  diox.,  263 
aqua  ammoni®,  252 
collodium  flexile,  522 
sodii  chloridum,  1468 
V.  Bites. 

Stomach,  cancer  of,  lac,  917 
pancreatinum,  1190 
Dilatation  of,  saccharinum. , 
1394 

Ulcer  of,  argenti  nitras,  282 
bismuthi  subnitr.,  346 
ferri  sulphas,  742 
eucalyptus,  628 
lac,  919 

mangani  dioxidum,  1015 
opium,  1180 
pancreatinum,  1190 
sodii  sulphas,  1484 
Stomatitis,  acid,  boric.,  36 
acid,  hvdroehlor.  dil.,  63 
aqua,  241 


1898 


INDEX  OF  THERAPEUTICS. 


Stomatitis — 
alumen,  172 
creosotum,  549 
cupri  sulphas,  563 
hydrastis,  850 
mel  rosse,  1030 
oleum  thymi,  1163 
potassii  chloras,  1222,  1293 
salvia,  1406 
sodii  boras,  1459 
Stone,  acid,  sulphuric.,  103 
aquae  minerales,  273 
cocaina,  509 
liquor  calcis,  953 
potassa,  1272 
potassii  bicarbonas,  1278 
Strabismus,  atropina,  309 
Strangulation,  aqua,  245 
Strangury,  allium,  160 
aqua,  245 
campbora,  390 
carota,  415 
cbimapbila,  448 
chondrus,  473 
cucumis,  559 
linum,  946 
liq.  potassae,  978 
petroselinum,  1212 
potassa,  1272 
saururqs,  1427 
spirit,  aether,  nitros.,  1499 
uva  ursi,  1680 

Stricture  of  urethra,  argenti 
nitras,  285 
laminaria,  928 
gelatina,  769 
tupelo,  928 

Sunstroke,  antipyrina,  231 

apomorphin.  hydrochlor.,  236 

aqua,  242 

atropina,  309 

ergota,  621 

gelsemium,  771 

morphina,  1055 

opium,  1179 

potassii  bromidum,  1285 
quininae  sulph.,  1357 
Suppuration,  acetum,  14 
acid,  acetic.,  22 
acid,  boricum,  36 
acid,  carbolic,  41 
anthemis,  216 
calcii  iodidum,  374 
calcium  sulphide,  385 
creolinum,  551 
decoctum  quercus,  579 
glycerit.  acid,  tannic.,  783 
juniperus  virginiana,  907 
liq.  calcis,  953 
ol.  thymi,  1163 
potassa  sulphurata,  1274 
vin.  album,  1702 

Surgical  operations,  acid,  car- 
bolicum,  43 
aether,  135 
sethyl  bromid.,  142 
aqua,  242 
chloral,  458 
chloroformum,  469 
cocainae  hydrochlor.,  507 
ethydene  chloride,  140 
methyleni  bichlorid.,  1037 
nitrogenii  monoxidum,  1083 
rhigolene,  1211 
Sweating,  acetum,  14 
acid,  chromic,  49 
acid,  gallic,  56 
acid,  phosphoric,  56 
acid,  salicylic.,  95 
acid,  sulphuric.,  102 
acid,  sulphuric,  aromat.,  103 


Sweating — 

acid,  tannic.,  109 
agaricus  albus,  144 
alumen,  172 
amyl  nitris,  198 
antipyrinum,  230 
aqua,  244,  246 
argenti  oxidum,  286 
atropina,  309 
belladonna,  330 
bismuthi  subnitrat.,  347 
camphoric  acid,  391 
. chloral,  458 
coto,  1078 

decoctum  quercus,  579 
duboisia,  857 
ergota,  622 
ferri  sulphas,  742 
fungus  muscarius,  760 
hsematoxylon,  804 
homatropine,  309 
hyoscyamus,  856 
infus.  rosae  acid.,  873 
ipecacuanha,  898 
kino,  912 

mistura  ferri  composita,  1043 

myrtus,  1070 

ol.  olivae,  1141 

ol.  ricini,  1146 

picrotoxin,  1228 

pilocarpus,  1233 

plumbi  acetas,  1261 

pulv.  ipecac,  et  opii,  1331 

quininae  sulphas,  1359 

rosa  gallica,  1386 

salvia,  1406 

strychnina,  1530 

thea,  1595 

tr.  ferri  chloridi,  1620 
zinci  oxid.,  1727 
Fetid,  pilocarpus,  1233 
Sycosis,  acid,  chromic.,  49 

liq.  arsen.  et  hydrarg.  iod., 
950 

oleatum  hydrargyri,  1098 
phytolacca,  1226 
salol,  1404 

sodii  hyposulphis,  1472 
sulphur,  1542 

ung.  hydrarg.  ammon.,  1665 
Syncope,  aether  aceticus,  139 
alcohol,  154 
allium,  160 

ammonii  carbonas,  184 
amyl  nitris,  198 
aqua,  246 

aqua  ammoniae,  252 
sinapis,  1448 
vin.  album,  1702 
Syphilis,  acid,  carbolic.,  43 
acid,  chromic.,  49 
acid,  hydrochloric.,  63 
acid,  nitric,  dil.,  76 
acid,  nitrohydrochlor.  dil.,  78 
annidalin,  886 
aqua,  245 
aqua  chlori,  258 
aqua  hydrogen,  diox.,  263 
aquae  minerales,  272 
argenti  iodidum,  278 
atherosperma  moschata,  348 
aurum,  315 

bignonia  capreolata,  423 
bromum,  352 
carbonei  bisulphid.,  410 
carex,  1425 
carica  papaya,  1206 
ceanothus,  429 
celastrus,  429 
cephalanthus,  430 
clematis,  502 


Syphilis— 

cupri  sulphas,  563 
decoct,  sarsaparillae  comp., 
579 

emplast.  ammon.  c.  hydrarg., 
600 

emplast.  hydrargyri,  603 
ferrum,  748 
guaiaci  resina,  797 
gynocardia,  803 
helianthemum,  807 
hydrarg.  chlorid.  corros.,  822 
hydrarg.  chlorid.  mite,  827 
hydrarg.  cyanid,,  832 
hydrarg.  iodid.  rubrum,  835 
hydrarg.  iodid.  viride,  833 
hydrarg.  oxid.  rubrum,  838 
hydrarg.  salicyl.,  845 
hydrarg.  sulphid.  rubrum,  840 
hydrarg.  tannas,  846 
hydrarg.  c.  creta,  848 
hydrargyrum,  843 
iodoformum,  882 
iodol,  886 
iodolum,  886 
iodum,  -890 
kava,  1025 
lappa,  929 

liq.  arsenii  et  hydrarg.  iodi., 
951 

liq.  hydrarg.  nitratis.  969 
lobelia,  996 

lotio  hydrarg.  flava,  998 
lotio  hydrarg.  nigra,  998 
mezereum,  1040 
oleatum  hydrargyri,  1098 
opium,  1181 
phytolacca,  1226 
pilocarpus,  1233 
platinum  chloridum,  1258 
potassii  iodid.,  1305 
saponaria,  1420 
sarsaparilla,  1425 
sassafras,  1427 
sodii  hypophosphis,  1470 
sodii  iodidum,  1473 
stillingia,  1512 
syr.  sarsaparillae  c.,  1570 
tayuya,  354 
ung.  hydrargyri,  1664 
ung.  hydrarg.  ammon.,  1665 
ung.  hydrarg.  iod.  rubri,  1666 
ung.  hydrarg.  oxid.  rubri, 
1668 

ung.  hydrarg.  subchlor.,  1668 
viola,  1712 
xanthoxylum,  1717 
Syphilitic  swellings,  emplast. 
ammoniaci  c.  hydrarg.,  600 
emplast.  hydrargyri,  603 
Ulcers,  acid,  chromic.,  45 
ung.  hydrarg.  ammon.,  1665 
ung.  hydrarg.  iodid.  rub.,  1666 
ung.  hydrarg.  oxid.  rub.,  1668 

Tabes  mesenterica,  caicii 

chlorid.,  371 
iodum,  891 
ol.  morrhuae,  1135 
Tasniaj  acid,  carbolic.,  43 
acid,  salicylic.,  94 
acid,  sulphuric.,  103 
aether,  134 
agrimonia,  146 
ailanthus,  146 
areca,  276 
aspidium,  302 
creosotum,  548 
cusso,  571 

decoct,  granati  rad.,  577 
embelia  ribes,  911 


INDEX  OF  THERAPEUTICS. 


Taenia— 

granatum,  793 
infus.  cusso,  870 
kamala,  910 
musenna,  910 
morus  nigra,  1048 
oleores.  aspidii,  1101 
ol.  animal,  sether,  1109 
ol.  chenopodii,  1118 
ol.  morrhum,  1135 
ol.  olivEe,  1141 
ol.  terebinthin®,  1159 
ol.  tiglii,  1165 
pelletierine,  794 
pepo,  1201 
pepsinum,  1207 
petroleum,  1210 
santonica.  1413 
saoria,  910 
stannum,  1511 
tatze,  911 
ulmus,  1658 
Teeth,  carious,  acid,  arsenos., 
30 

mastiche,  1024 
oleum  sabinse,  1150 
zinci  cbloridum,  1724 
Discolored,  acid,  tannic.,  110 
ammonii  chlorid.,  187  , 
carbo  ligni,  409 
Ingrown,  alumen,  172 
Telangiectasis,  acid,  chromic., 
49 

Tendons,  inflamed,  ung.  iodi, 
1669 

Tenesmus,  camphora  monobro-  j 
mata,  392 

Testicle,  swelled,  antimon.  et 
potass,  tart.,  220 
aqua,  242,  244 
chloroformum,  469 
collodium  flexile,  522 
emplast.  belladonnae,  601 
iodoformum,  881,  882 
oleatum  hydrargyri,  1099 
pulsatilla,  1323 
ung.  hydrargyri,  1665 
ung.  plumbi  iodidi,  1670 
Tetanus,  acid,  salicylic.,  93 
aconitum,  121 
aether,  135 
alcohol,  155 
amyl  nitris,  198 
antipyrinum,  231 
aqua,  242 
atropina,  308 
belladonna,  330 
cannabis,  395 
cantharis,  401 
chloral,  457 
chloroformum,  469 
cocainae  hydrochl.,  510 
colchicum,  519 
conium,  533 
curare,  56’/' 
gelsemium,  771 
hyoscyamus,  856 
morphina,  1055 
moschus,  1061 
opium,  1179 
oxygenium,  1187 
passiflora,  1200 
physostigma.  1223 
pilocarpus,  1223 
potassa,  1272 
potassii  bromid.,  1285 
potassii  carbonas,  1290 
strychnina,  1530 
tabacum,  1577 
urethanum,  1675 
yin.  album,  1702 


Thirst,  glycerinum,  782 

Throat,  sore,  achillae,  17 
acid,  carbolic.,  44 
alnus,  161 
alumen,  172 
aqua  ammoniae,  251 
aqua  chlori,  258 
aqua  chloroformi,  259 
cupri  sulphas,  563 
ext.  glycyrrhizEe,  676 
geranium,  775 
granatum,  794 
helianthemum,  807 
hyssopus,  859 
kino,  912 

liq.  ammonii  acetatis,  949 
liq.  calcis,  953 
mori  succus,  1048 
piper,  1249 

potassii  bichromas,  1280 
salvia,  1406 
statice,  1515 

trochisci  potass,  chlorat.,  1655 
V.  Diphtheria. 
j Thrush,  acid,  salicylic.,  94 
liquor  calcis,  953 
mel,  1028 
mel  rosse,  1030 
paraflinum,  1194 
potassii  chloras,  1293 
sodii  boras,  1459 
sodii  sulphocarbolas,  1487 
ung.  iodi,  1669 

Thyroid,  enlarged,  ammon. 
chlorid.,  187 
ergota,  621 
ioduru,  890 

Tinea  capitis,  acid,  boric.,  36 
acid,  chromic.,  49 
acid,  sulphuric.,  102 
ammonii  iodid.,  189 
copper  oleate,  564 
ol.  tiglii,  1165 
phytolacca,  1226 
sambucus,  1407 
Versicolor,  sulphur,  1542 
Tonsurans,  ol.  tiglii,  1165 
sulphur,  1542 

Tinnitus  aurium,  acid,  liydro- 
brom.,  59 

Tongue,  fissured,  glycerina,  781 
iodoformum,  890 
Ulcerated,  acid,  chromic.,  49 
Paralyzed,  tr.  pyrethri,  1634 
zingiber,  1737 

Tonic  convulsion,  physostig., 
1223 

Tonsillitis,  aconitum,  121 
aether,  134 
agrimonia,  146 
alnus,  161 
alumen,  172 
ammonii  iodid.,  189 
antimon.  et  potass,  tart.,  220 
aqua,  241 
aqua  chlori,  258 
argenti  nitras,  283 
capsicum,  405 
cetaceum,  440 
decoct,  granati  rad.,  577 
decoct,  quercus,  579 
diospyros,  588 
eupatorium,  631 
garcinia,  766 
geranium,  775 
granatum,  794 
guaiaci  resina,  798 
hedeoma,  806 
helianthemum,  807 
hordeum,  818 
ioduril,  836 


I Tonsillitis — 
juglans,  905 

1 liatris,  937 

liq.  ammonii  acetatis,  949 
mel  boratis,  1029 
oxymel,  1187 
piper,  1249 

pulv.  ipecac,  et  .opii,  1331 
sabbatia,  1391 
salol,  1404 
salvia,  1406 
sodii  bicarbonas,  1456 
sodium  salicylas,  1481 
statice,  1515 
thea,  1595 
tr.  guaiaci,  1622 
tr.  guaiaci  ammon.,  1622 
ung.  iodi,  1669 
zinci  iodidum,  1726 
V.  Pharyngitis. 

Toothache,  acid,  carbolic.,  44 
acid,  tannic.,  110 
aconitum,  121 
aether,  134 
alumen,  172 
anthemis,  216 
aqua,  243,  246 
aqua  chloroformi,  259 
armoracia,  288 
camphor  (phenol),  390 
camphora,  390 
carbonei  bisulphid.,  410 
cataria,  425 
chloroformum,  469 
cocaina,  508 
conium,  533 
creosotum,  549 
delphinine,  1514 
emplast.  opii,  604 
euphrasia,  635 
humulus,  819 
imperatorium,  865 
iodoform,  883 
mastiche,  1024 
myrica,  1005 
ol.  cajuputi,  1115 
ol.  caryophylli,  1118 
ol.  menthae  piper.,  1132 
ol.  sabinae,  1150 
ol.  thy  mi,  1163 
opium,  1181 
origanum,  1184 

| # potassii  bromidum,  1286 
primula,  1318 
py  rethrum,  1335 
rliamnus  catharticus,  1374 
rhus  glabra,  1381 
sinapis,  1448 
sodii  cbloridum,  1468 
spirit,  camphor.,  1502 
tr.  pyrethri,  1634 
zingiber,  1737 

Trachoma,  abrus,  2 

Tremor,  hyoscyamus,  856 
potassii  bromidum,  1286 
veratrina,  1689 

Trismus,  nascent,  amyl  nitr 
198 

! Tuberculosis,  cantharis.  400 

Tumors,  acid,  arsenos.,  30 
acid,  hydriod.,  57 
acid,  perosmic.,  50 
alcohol,  156 
aqua,  243 

arsenici  iodidum,  292 
belladonna,  329 
calcii  chlorid.,  372 
emplast.  plumbi  iodidi,  607 
ergota,  613 

hydrarg.  chlor.  corros.,  825 
iodum,  892 


1900 


INDEX  OF  THERAPEUTICS. 


Tumors— 

physostigma,  1223 
trillium,  1644 
zinci  chloridum,  1724 
zinci  sulphas,  1731 
Cystic,  sodium  ethylate,  933 
Epithelial,  acid,  arsenos.,  30 
Erectile,  acid,  tannic.,  110 
chloral,  458 
ferri  chlorid.,  721 
ferri  lactas,  734 
potassa,  1272 

Ovarian,  calcii  chlorid.,  372 
Sebaceous,  aether,  136 
Urethral,  acid,  chromic.,  49 
Uterine,  ammonii  chlorid.,  187 
calcii  chlorid.,  372 
ergota,  620 

Tympanites,  aqua  ammonise,  252 
asafcetida,  296 
carbo  ligni,  409 
castoreum,  422 
emulsion  asafoetidse,  641 
enema  asafcetidse,  613 
enema  terebinthinae,  614 
extr.  glycyrrhizae,  676 
extr.  physostigmatis,  694 
liquor  calcis,  953 
liquor  potassae,  978 
ol.  terebinthinae,  1159,  1160 
plumbi  acetas,  1261 
strychnina,  1531 
suppositor.  asafcetida,  1548 
tinct.  asafcetidae,  1607 
Typhoid  state,  acid,  hydrochl., 
63 

aether,  134 
alcohol,  154 
ambra  grisea,  178 
ambrosia,  178 
ammoniae  carbonas,  184 
amyl  nitris,  199 
angelica,  210 
angustura,  211 
aqua  ammonia,  251 
aqua  camphora,  255 
aqua  chlori,  258 
arnica,  291 
asarum,  298 
baptisia,  322 
caffea,  364 
calamus,  368 
calendula,  377 
camphora,  389 

camphora  monobromata,  392 
cantharis,  401 
carlina  acaulis,  877 
cascarilla,  418 
castoreum,  422 
cerevisise  fermentum,  437 
coca,  504 
contrayerva,  534 
galega,  763 
imperatoria,  865 
liq.  sodse  chlorat.,  984 
mistura  spirit,  vini  gallici, 
1045 

moschus,  1060 

ol.  animale  sethereum,  1109 

opium,  1178 

pichurim,  1079 

potassii  chloras,  1293 

ptelea,  1322 

quininse  hydrobromas,  1348 
senega,  1438 
serpentaria,  1444 
spiraea,  1494 
tinct.  castorei,  1613 
tinct.  cinchonse  c.,  1615 
tinct.  serpentariae,  1638 
tinct.  valerianae,  1640 


Typhoid  state — 

tinct.  valerianae  ammon.,  1640 
valeriana,  1682 
vin.  album,  1702,  1703 
vin.  rubrum,  1710 
wine-whey,  1703 

[ULCER  OF  STOMACH,  argenti 
I U nitras,  282 

argenti  oxid.,  286 
bismuthi  subnitras,  346 
eucalyptus,  628 
ferri  albuminas,  734 
iodoformum,  883 
lac,  919 
opium,  1180 
pil.  opii,  1244 
sodii  sulphas,  1284 
Ulcers,  abrus,  2 
absinthium,  5 
acacia,  8 

acid,  carbolic.,  42,  43 
acid,  carbonic.,  47 
acid,  chromic.,  49 
acid,  hydriodic.,  57 
acid,  nitric,  dil.,  76  • 

acid,  salicylic.,  94 
acid,  sulphuric.,  102 
acid,  tannic.,  109 
agrimonia,  146 
alcohol,  155 
alisma,  158 
alnus,  161 
alumen,  172 
alumen  exsiccat.,  173 
aluminii  sulph.,  177 
amyl  hydride,  1211 
annidalin,  886 
antipyrinum,  232 
antisepsin,  886 
aqua,  242 
aqua  chlori,  258 
aqua  creosoti,  259 
aq.  hydrogen,  diox.,  263 
argemone,  277 
argenti  nitras,  283,  284 
asclepias,  300 
aurum,  315 
balsam,  peruvian.,  320 
baptisia,  322 

bismuth,  subiodide  of,  347 
bismuthi  subnitras,  346 
bolus,  349 

calcii  carb.  prsecipit.,  370 
calcii  sulphis,  376 
calendula,  377 
calx,  381 

calx  chlorata,  385 
camphor  (salicylated),  390 
camphora,  390 
camphora  (carbolized),  390 
cantharis,  400 
carbo  ligni,  409 
carbonei  bisulphid.,  411 
carota,  415 

cataplasma  carbonis,  423 
cataplasma  fermenti,  424 
cataplasma  lini,  424 
cataplasma  sodse  chloratse,  424 
catechu,  428 
ceanothus,  429 
ceratum  cetacei,  435 
ceratum  plumbi  subace  tat., 
436 

ceratum  resinse,  436 
chloral,  458 
cochlearia,  514 
collodium  flexile,  522 
creolinum,  550 
creosotum,  549 
creta  prseparata,  554 


Ulcers — 

crocus,  556 

cupri  subacetas,  561 

cupri  sulphas,  563 

decoct,  quercus,  579 

elastica,  594 

elemi,  597 

epiphegus,  614 

eucalyptus,  629 

euphorbium,  634 

europhen,  886 

ferri  chloridum,  721 

ferri  sulph.,  742 

ferrum,  748 

galium,  764 

garcinia,  766 

gelatina,  769 

glaucium  luteum,  446 

glechoma,  777 

glyceritum  boracis,  784 

gnaphalium,  789 

granatum,  794 

hsematoxylon,  804 

heuchera,  812 

liydrarg.  iodid.  rub.,  822 

hydrarg.  oxid.  flavum,  836 

hydrarg.  oxid.  rubr.,  838 

hydrastis,  850 

hydrocotyle,  851 

hysterionica  Baylahuen,  796 

imperatoria,  865 

iodoformum,  881,  883 

iodol,  886 

iodolum,  886 

iodum,  892 

juglans,  905 

kino,  912 

lac,  919 

lacca,  924 

lappa,  929 

liquidambar,  947 

liquor  calcis,  953 

liquor  ferri  chloridi,  961 

liquor  hydrarg.  nitratis,  969 

liquor  sodse  chloratse,  985 

lotio  hydrarg.  flava,  998 

lotio  hydrarg.  nigra,  998 

lycopodium,  1002 

mangani  sulphas,  1017 

mel  boracis,  1029 

mezereum,  1040 

monesia,  1047 

mucilago  amyli,  1062 

mucilago  tragacanthse,  1063 

mucilago  ulmi,  1063 

myrrha,  1069 

myrtus,  1070 

naphthalinum,  1072 

nymphsea,  1088 

ol.  terebinthinae,  1160 

ol.  thymi,  1163 

ononis  spinosa,  788 

opium,  1181 

oxalis,  1185 

paraffinum,  1194 

phytolacca,  1226 

pix  liquida,  1256 

plumbi  nitras,  1265 

potassa,  1272 

potassii  bromid.,  1287 

potassii  chloras,  1294 

potassii  nitras,  1307 

potassii  permanganas,  1312 

prinos,  1319 

psyllium,  1257 

pyrogallol.  1336 

quininse  sulphas,  1359 

rheum,  1380 

rosa  gallica,  1386 

sabina,  1393 

saccharum,  1397 


INDEX  OF  THERAPEUTICS. 


1901 


Ulcers — 

salix,  1404 
salvia,  1406 
sanguinaria,  1409 
scropliularia,  1434 
sedum,  1435 

sempervivum  tectorum,  1435 
sodii  boras,  1459 
sodii  cblorid.,  1468. 
soziodol,  887 
spiraea,  1494 
spirit,  camphorae,  1502 
tanacetum,  1579 
terebenum,  1584 
thuya,  1598 
tr.  aloes,  1605 
tr.  benzoin i,  1605 
tr.  catechu  c.,  1613 
trillium,  1644 
ung.  aquae  rosae,  1661 
ung.  creosoti,  1662 
ung.  elemi,  1663 
ung.  hydrarg.  iodidi  rubri, 
1666  ' 

ung.  hvdrarg.  oxidi  rubri, 
1668 

ung.  picis  liquidae,  1669 
ung.  ziuci  oxidi,  1673 
urtica,  1677 
veronica,  1695 
vin.  aromaticum,  1704 
zinci  carb.  praecip.,  1722 
zinci  chloridum,  1724 
zinci  oxidum,  1728 
zinci  salicylas,1735 
zinci  sulphas,  1731 
Uremia,  cocainae  hydrochlor.,511 
oxygenium,  1187 
Ureter,  spasm  of,  aether,  135 
aqua,  245 

atropinae  sulph.,  308 
belladonna,  330 
opium,  1179 

Urethra,  irritable,  acid,  chro- 
mic., 49 

atropinae  sulph.,  308 
argenti  nitras,  284,  285 
belladonna,  330 
buchu, 356 
chondrus,  473 
cocaina,  508,  509 
cocainae  hydrochl.,  510 
cubeba,  558 
potassii  bromid.,  1287 
triticum,  1648 
unguentum  atropiae,  1661 
unguentum  elemi,  1663 

Stricture  of,  argenti  nitras, 
284 

laminaria,  928 
potassa,  1272 

Tumor  of,  zinci  sulphas,  1731 
Urethritis,  colocynthis,  525 
Uric  acid,  acid,  benzoic.,  33 
ammonii  carbonas,  184 
lithii  carbonas,  992 
liquor  potassae,  978 
piperidine,  1250 
potassii  bicarbonas,  1278 
sodii  bicarbonas,  1456 
Urinary  calculi,  aquae  miner- 
ales,  273 
hydrangea,  820 
liquor  calcis,  953 
liquor  potassae,  977 
ol.  terebinthinae,  1159 
opium,  1180 
sodii  bicarbonas,  1456 
veronica,  1695 

Deposits,  aquae  minerales,  273  j 
liq.  magnesiae  carbonatis,  971 ! 


Urinary  deposits — 
liq.  potassae,  977 
lithii  carbonas,  992 
magnesia,  1006 
sodii  acetas,  1451 
Urine,  acid,  acid,  benzoic.,  33 
Alkaline,  saccliarinum,  1394 
Ammoniacal,  acid,  boric.,  36 
Incontinence  of,  acid,  ben- 
zoic., 33 

acid,  chromic. ,'49 
arenaria  rubra,  615 
atropinae  sulph.,  309 
belladonna,  330 
buchu, 356 

camphora  monobromata,  392 

cantharis,  399 

collodium  flexile,  523 

cubeba,  558 

equisetum,  615 

ergota,  621 

ferrum,  747 

humulus,  819 

krameria,  913 

liq.  ferri  chloridi,  960 

lupulina,  1000 

matico,  1025 

potassii  bromidum,  1286 

rhus  toxicodendron,  1383 

strychnina,  1530 

urtica,  1677 

uva  ursi,  1680 

Phosphatic,  acid,  benzoic.,  33 
Retention  of,  alkekengi,  159 
aqua,  245 
chimaphila,  448 
cucumis,  559 
ferrum,  747 
lycopodium,  1002 
petroleum,  1210 
rhus  aromatica,  1381 
stramonium,  1518 
uva  ursi,  1680 

Suppression  of,  chimaphila, 
448 

sodii  acetas,  1451 
sodii  bicarbonas,  1456 
Urticaria,  acid,  boric.,  36 
acid,  salicylic.,  95 
acid,  sulphuros.,  106 
amylum,  206 
atropinae  sulph.,  309 
ipecacuanha,  898 
potassii  bromid.,  1286 
pilocarpus,  1232 
tabacum,  1576 

Uterine  catarrh,  acid,  sali- 
cylic., 95 

Uterine  colic,  aloe,  165 
argenti  nitras,  284 
castor,  422 
enema  aloes,  613 
eucalyptus,  628 
grindelia,  795 
sodii  chlorid.,  1468 
Uterine  hemorrhage.  V.  Men- 

■ ORRHAGIA. 

Uterus,  cancer  of,  zinci  chlor- 
idum, 1724 

Catarrh  of,  zinci  chloridum, 
1724 

Engorgement  of,  aqua,  243, 
245,  246 

aquae  mineralis,  273 
cimicifuga,  47.  91 
ergota,  620,  621 
hydrastis,  856 
iodoformum,  881 
iodum,  891 
potassii  acetas,  1276 
Inertia,  of,  aqua,  245,  246 


Uterus,  inertia  of — 
belladonna,  331 
cannabis,  393 
canella.  393 
cinnamomum,  501 
coca,  504 
enema  aloes,  613 
ergota,  620 
ext.  ergotae  fl.,  670 
gossypii  radicis  cortex,  790 
ol.  terebinthinae,  1152 
sodii  boras,  1459 
strychninae  sulphas,  1528 
Prolapsus  of,  acid,  tannicum, 
110 

geranium,  775 
gossypium,  791 
gutta-percha,  802 
myrtus,  1070 
Rigid,  aether,  135 
antimon.  et  potass,  tart.,  221 
apomorphina,  236 
aqua,  245 

belladonna,  330,  653 
ipecacuanha,  896 
Spasm  of,  aqua,  245 
To  dilate,  laminaria,  928 
ulmus,  1658 

Tumors  of,  ammonii  chlorid., 
187 

calcii  chloridum,  372 
ergota,  620 
hydrastis,  850 

Ulcers  of,  acid,  carbolicum,  43 
creolinum,  551 
iodum,  892 
myrtus,  1070 

Uvula,  relaxed,  alumen,  172 
decoct,  quercus,  579 
myrtus,  1070 
pyre  thrum,  1335 
tinct.  myrrhae,  1629 
zingiber,  1737 

7AGINA,  INFLAMED,  acid, 
boric.,  35 
althaea,  169 
creolinum,  551 
sodii  chlorid.,  1468 
suppositor.  morphiae,  1551 
suppositor.  plumbi  comp., 
1550 

tinct.  myrrhae,  1629 
Relaxed,  acid,  tannic.,  109 
alumen,  172 
bismutlii  subnitras,  346 
catechu,  428 
galla,  766 
garcinia,  766 
geranium,  775 

liq.  bismuth,  et  ammon. 
citrat.,  952 

suppositor.  acid,  tannic.,  1549 
suppositor.  plumbi  c.,  1550 
tr.  catechu  c.,  1613 
tr.  gallae,  1620 
tr.  myrrhae,  1629 
ung.  gallae,  1663 

Vaginismus,  atropinae  sulph.,  308 
ext.  belladonnae  fol.  ale.,  653 
iodoformum,  883 
Varicocele,  alcohol,  156 
chloral,  458 
collodium  flexile,  522 
Varicose  aneurisms,  ferrum, 
749 

Veins,  antimonii  oxid.,  221 
Variola,  acid,  carbolic.,  42 
acid,  tannic.,  139 
amylum,  206 
aqua,  239 


1902  INDEX  OF  THERAPEUTICS. 


Variola— 

aqua  clilori,  258 
argenti  nitras,  284 
bismuthi  subnitras,  346 
campbora,  390 
collodium  flexile,  522 
elastica,  595 

emplast.  hydrargyri,  603 
gutta-percha,  802 
hydrarg.  chlor.  mit.,  831 
hydrargyrum,  845 
iodoformum,  882 
iodum,  891 
liniment,  calcis,  940 
opium,  1178 
quinin©  sulph.,  1358 
ung.  hydrargyri,  1665 
Vegetations,  acid,  chromic.,  49 
Veins  injection  into,  lac,  920 
Varicose,  acid,  carbolic.,  43 
antimon.  et  potass,  tart.,  221 
aqua,  243 
elastica,  594 

liquor  ferri  chloridi,  960 
potassa,  1272 

Venereal  excitement,  cam- 
phora,  390 
digitalis,  586 
potassii  bromid.,  1286 
Vegetations,  acid,  carboli- 
cum,  43 

acid,  chromic.,  49 
anacardium,  208 

Vertebrae,  diseased,  moxa, 
1061 

Vertigo,  amyl  nitris,  198 
cubeba,  558 
quinin©  sulphas,  1359 
valeriana,  1682 
zinci  valerianas,  1733 
Gastric,  liquor  potass©,  978 
quassia,  1340 
quinin©  sulphas,  1359 
sodii  bicarbonas,  1456 
Vomiting,  acid,  carbolic.,  44 
acid,  carbonic.,  47 
acid,  hydrobromic.  dil.,  59 
acid,  hydrocyan,  dil.,  67 
©ther,  134 
alcohol,  155 
armoracia,  288 
belladonna,  330 
caffea,  366 
calendula,  377 
calumba,  379 
cannabis,  396 
cantharis,  401 
caryophyllus,  417 
cerii  oxalas,  439 
chloroformum,  468 
cocain©  hydrochlor.,  510 
creosotum,  548 
galanga,  761 
hyoscyamus,  856 
iodum,  891 
ipecacuanha,  897 
juglans,  905 
laburnum,  915 
lac,  919 

liniment,  terebinthin©  acet., 
944 

liq.  calcis,  953 
liq.  potassi  citratis,  980 
magnesia,  1006 
mentha  piperita,  1033 
monesia,  1047 
moschus,  1060 
ol.  anthemidis,  1111 
ol.  cajuputi,  1115 
opium,  1180 
oxygenium,  1187 


Vomiting — 

paraldehyde,  1196 
pichurim,  1079 
pil.  opii,  1244 
potassii  bicarb.,  1278 
potassii  bitartras,  1282 
potassii  bromid.,  1286 
sinapis,  1448 
tr.  cinnamomi,  1616 
valerianate  of  caffeine,  1683 
vin.  album,  1702 
vin.  ipecacuanh©,  1706 
Of  pregnancy,  aconitum,  121 
©ther,  134 
amyl  nitris,  198 
argenti  nitras,  284 
belladonna,  330 
cerium  valerianate,  439 
cerii  oxalas,  439 
chloral,  457 
chloroformum,  468 
hyoscyamus,  856 
iodum,  891 
ipecacuanha,  897 
laburnum,  915 
magnesia,  1606 
menthol,  1035 
opium,  1180 
oxygenium,  1187 
potass,  bromid.,  1286 
sodii  sulphocarbolas,  1487 
strychnina,  1530 
vin.  ipecacuanh©,  1706 
Vulva,  irritation  of,  aqua 
ammoni©,  252 
argenti  nitras,  284 
glyceritum  boratis,  784 
iodoformum,  883 
mel  boracis,  883 
sodii  boras,  1459 
sodii  chloridum,  1468 
Vulvitis,  gangrenous,  iodo- 
form., 883 

WAETS,  acid,  acetic.,  22 
acid,  arsenos.,  28,  30 
acid,  carbolic.,  44 
acid,  chromic.,  49 
acid,  nitric.,  76 
acid,  salicylic.,  95 
anacardium,  208 
argemone,  277 
chelidonium,  446 
creosotum,  549 
cupri  subacetas,  561 
drosera,  589 
heracleum,  812 
hydrarg.  chlor.  corros.,  824 
liq.  antimonii  chlor.,  950 
magnesia,  1006 
magnesii  carbonas,  1007 
plumbi  oxidum,  1267 
potassii  bichromas,  1280 
sabina,  1373 
sanguinaria,  1409 
scilla,  1431 
sedum,  1435 

sempervivum  tectorum,  1435 
sodium  ethylate,  983 
thuya,  1598 
ung.  hydrargyri,  1665 
White  swelling,  aconitum,  121 
emplast.  aconiti,  121 
iodum,  892 
moxa,  1061 
ol.  morrhu©,  1135 
Whitlow,  acid,  carbolic.,  43 
aqua,  242 

Whooping  cough,  acetanilid,  10 
acid,  carbolic.,  44 
acid,  carbonic.,  47 


Whooping  cough — 
acid,  cresylic.,  44 
acid,  hydrobrom.  dil.,  59 
acid,  hydrocyan,  dil.,  67 
acid,  nitric,  dil.,  76 
acid,  salicylic.,  94 
acid,  sulphuros.,  106 
acid,  tannic.,  109 
©ther,  135 
allium,  160 
alumen,  171 

ammonii  bromidum,  182 
ammonii  chloridum,  187 
amyl  nitris,  198 
antipyrinum,  230 
aqua  ammoni©,  252 
aq.  hydrogen,  dioxid.,  263 
argenti  iodidum,  278 
argenti  nitras,  283 
asafoetida,  296 
atropin©  sulph.,  308 
belladonna,  330 
benzoin um,  333,  334 
bromoform,  353 
bryonia,  354 
caffea,  366 
castanea,  420 
chloral,  457 

cocain©  hydrochlor.,  507 
coccus,  512 
conium,  533 
drosera,  589 
dulcamara,  591 
ergota,  622 
eucalyptus,  629 
ferrum,  747 
grindelia,  795 
hippocastanum,  814 
hyoscyamus,  856 
inula,  877 
ipecacuanha,  896 
laburnum,  915 
lobelia,  996 
menthol,  1034 
morphina,  1055 
•moschus,  1060 
narcissus,  1076 
ol.  succini,  1156 
ol.  terebinthin©,  1159 
p©onia,  1188 
persica,  1207 
pilocarpus,  1233 
plumbi  acetas,  1261 
potassa  sulphurata,  1274 
potassii  bromid.,  1286 
pulsatiila,  1323 
quinin©  sulphas,  1357 
quinine  tannate,  1363 
resorcinum,  1372 
santoninum,  1416 
sodii  carbonas  exsiccatus,1465 
sodii  salicylas,  1481 
stramonium,  1518 
syrupus  allii,  1555 
terpini  hydras,  1588 
tr.  myrrh©,  1629 
valerinate  of  caffeine,  1683 
zinci  sulphas,  1731 
zinci  valerianas,  1733 
Worms  (lumbricoid,  etc.),  ab- 
sinthium, 5 
acetonum,  12 
acid,  carbolic.,  43 
alcohol  methylic.,  137 
allium,  160 
ammonii  picricum,  88 
anacardium,  208 
andira,  209 
apocynum,  234 
azedaracli,  317 
cambogia,  386 


INDEX  OF  THERAPEUTICS. 


1903 


WORMS— 

camphora,  390 
carbo  ligni,  409 
chelidonium,.446 
chelone,  446 
chenopodium,  447 
colocynthis,  525 
coufectio  terebinthinse,  530 
convallaria,  535 
corylus,  546 
creolinum,  551 
curcas,  568 
cyclamen,  572 
fel  bovis,  716 
ferrum,  747 
gratiola,  794 
helmiuthochorton,  473 
bura,  819 

hydrarg.  chlor.  mite,  830 
jalapa,  904 
iuglans,  905 
kamala,  910 
lappa,  929 
margosin,  317 
marrubium,  1020 
mucuna,  1064 
naphthalinum,  1072 
ocymum  basilicum,  933 
ol.  cajuputi,  1115 
ol.  chenopodii,  1118 
ol.  ricini,  1146 
ol.  terebinthinse,  1159 
parthenium,  1199 
pepsinum,  1207 
persica,  1207 
petroleum,  1211 
primula,  1318 
ptelea  trifoliata,  1322 
quassia,  1340 
resin,  scammonii,  1370 
ruta,  1390 
sabadilla,  1391 
sabina,  1392 
salix,  1402 
sanguis,  1410 
santonica,  1413 
santoninum,  1415 
sida  floribunda,  169 


Worms — 

sodii  chlorid.,  1468 
sodii  santoninas,  1483 
spigelia,  1493 
spilantbes,  1335 
strychnina,  1530 
tabacum,  1577 
tanacetum,  1579 
tepbrosia,  1583 
tbuya,  1599 
valeriana,  1682 
Wounds,  acid,  benzoic.,  34 
acid,  boric.,  35 
acid,  carbolic.,  41 
acid,  nitric.,  76 
acid,  salicylic.,  95 
acid,  sulpburos.,  106 
alcobol,  155 
I aloe,  165 

ammouii  chloridum,  187 
| amyl  hydride,  1211 

aqua,  242,  246 
aq.  hydrogenii  diox.,  263 
argenti  nitras,  284 
arnica,  291 
asclepias,  300 
balsamum  peruvian.,  320 
. benzoinum,  335 
bismuthi  subnitr.,  346 
calendula,  377 
camphor  (carbolized),  390 
cerat.  plumbi  subacetatis,  436 
collodium  flexile,  522 
collodium  stypticum,  523 
emplast.  resinse,  607 
eucalyptus,  628 
glycerinum,  781,  782 
gossypium,  791 
gutta-percha,  802 
bydrargyri  chlor.  corros.,  822, 
825 

hypericum,  858 
iodoformum,  881,  883,  884 
hysterionica  Baylahuen,  796 
lappa,  929 
linteum,  944 
liq.  antimonii  chlor.,  950 
liq.  plumbi  subacetatis,  974 


Wounds— 

liq.  sodii  silicatis,  987 
lycoperdon,  1000 
myrrha,  1069 
myrtus,  1070 
naphthalinum,  1072 
ol.  oliv*,  1141 
ol.  terebinthime,  1158 
ol.  theobromatis,  1162 
ol.  thymi,  1163 
petroleum,  1211 
pliormium,  1216 
saccharum,  1397 
sanicula,  1411 
sarcocolla,  1420 
scrophularia,  1434 
sodium  ethylate, 
soziodol,  887 
terebenum,  1584 
tr.  aloes,  1605 
tr.  arnicse,  1606 
tr.  benzoini,  1608 
tr.  benzoini  c.,  1609 
ung.  plumbi  acetatis,  1670 
veratrum  viride,  1693 
vin.  aromaticum,  1704 
Poisoned,  ammonii  carbonas. 
181 

argenti  nitras,  284 
gutta-percha,  802 
iodum,  892 

liq.  antimonii  chlorid.,  950 
potassa,  1272 
sodium  ethylate,  983 
Writer’s  cramp,  strychnina, 
1530 

Wry-neck,  atropinse  sulphas,  308 

ZONA,  antipyrinum,  231 
argenti  nitras,  284 
bismuthi  subnitras,  346 
cantharis,  400 
grindelia,  795 
liq.  ferri  chloridi,  961 
ol.  menthse  piperitse,  1132 
ung.  hydrarg.  ammoniat.,1665 
zinci  phosphidum,  1729 


v yts&i 


